The Greencastle Police Department has announced there will be a UTV inspection event at the Greencastle Water treatment plant on Columbia Street across from Refuse Handling.

The event will be Saturday, 9 a.m. - noon. This is an open inspection event and no appointment is necessary.

Those interested should email the city at utv@cityofgreencastle.com and request an application, then bring the completed application to the inspection.

Personnel will be on hand to inspect and process on site and your UTV will be stickered immediately as long as it passes inspection.

It is $100.00 for the initial inspection. Registration can be paid on site.

Indiana landowners, for the second year in a row, set a record in the number of conservation practices to maintain soil health, according to the Indiana Conservation Partnership (ICP).

The ICP, which works with Hoosier landowners to provide technical or financial assistance for the implementation of conservation projects, recently announced its 2024 conservation accomplishments. In 2023, landowners supported by the ICP installed more than 50,000 new conservation practices, up 3,000 from 2022. Last year’s 47,000 conservation practices installed was also a record.

“Year after year Hoosier farmers and conservationists are installing additional stewardship practices and working hard to ensure nutrients and irreplaceable topsoil stay on their fields,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, Indiana’s Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “Breaking records year after year is no small feat, and I want to thank the partners in this program and also the landowners and farmers for their contributions and wish them well on their continued success of improving soil health.”

The ICP report showed that over the last year landowners helped prevent over 1.6 million tons of sediment, over 3.6 million pounds of nitrogen and over 1.8 million pounds of phosphorus from entering Indiana waterways. 

In the fall of 2022, and emerging in the spring of 2023, Hoosier farmers planted more than 1.6 million acres of living cover, which includes cover crops and winter wheat. Cover crops and no-till practices implemented with ICP's assistance sequestered an estimated 41,000 tons of soil organic carbon, which is the equivalent to the carbon emissions of more than 30,168 cars.

While the term conservation practices can mean many things, in Indiana, some of the most common conservation best management practices are cover crops, nutrient management, residue and tillage management, conservation cover, early successional habitat development/management and grassed waterways. 

“Indiana’s vitality is rooted in the soil. In a time when extreme weather events are inevitable, keeping our soil healthy and productive is of paramount importance,” said Indiana Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) State Conservationist Damarys Mortenson. “We are seeing great strides by our Indiana farmers who are working with the ICP to incorporate soil health principles on their land. These producers are increasing their soil’s organic matter, reducing the need for expensive inputs and improving microbial activity — all while harvesting better profits and often better yields.”

Indiana State Department of Agriculture Director Don Lamb congratulates Hoosier farmers and landowners on another record year.

“It is exciting news to share that Hoosier farmers and landowners continue to break records each year on installing soil conservation practices,” said Lamb. “A large key to this success is helpful partnerships, having the right tools available and having willing participants. I want to thank the Indiana Conservation Partnership team for their efforts and of course our farmers and landowners who want to keep their soil healthy and thriving for years to come.”  

The ICP is made up of public and non-profit groups, along with landowners, that work together for the betterment of soil health and water quality. ICP organizations include, Indiana Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Indiana Department of Environmental Management, Indiana Department of Natural Resources, ISDA, Indiana State Soil Conservation Board, Purdue Extension, USDA-Farm Service Agency and USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service.

The Indiana Conservation Partnership is a crucial part of Indiana’s Nutrient Reduction Strategy, this illustrates the continued success and challenges of conservation and serves as a tool to help set watershed priorities and reduction targets, manage conservation resources and to further stakeholder involvement across Indiana. 

To find more information on soil and water conservation in Indiana, soil and carbon sequestration, soil conservation trends, Indiana’s work in our three water basins or partnerships between other states in the full report, click here or visit isda.in.gov. 

A Greencastle man found himself behind bars in the Putnam County Jail on charges of child porn after an investigation by the Lebanon Police and the Boone County Child Abuse and Sexual Explotation Task Force. 

According to a probable cause affidavit, Bruce A. Campbell, 52, Greencastle, is charged with a Level 4 felony of possessing and viewing child pornography stemming from a tip the Boone County CASE Task Force received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children Cyber Tipline Report. After obtaining a search warrant to view the report, law enforcement found a video containing what appeared to be a "prepubescent minor male" engaging in sexual acts with what appeared to be an adult male. According to law enforcement officials, the person in the video appeared to be under the age of 12. 

Through an investigation, police also obtained a search warrant for Campbell's house, and confiscated a cell phone that is believed to have several child pornography videos on it as well. 

"Some of the videos involved minor victims that appeared to be under the age of 12 years of age," the probable cause states. 

During questioning with police, Campbell admitted to using X, which is formerly known as Twitter, to watch pornography. 

"Bruce advised that the porn is "mostly" adult porn, but that he has watched child pornography on Twitter (X) as well. Bruce told me the that the ages of the children on the child pornography he watches varies from 5-13 years of age," the affidavit reads. 

Campbell admitted to police he has received child pornography and has sent child pornography to people while at his Greencastle residence. He told police that when he received a file he saved them in a locked folder in his phone. Campbell also stated he used an application called Telegram to exchange child pornography. 

On Monday, Campbell appeared for his initial hearing in the Putnam County Courthouse and was appointed a public defender as well as learning he is being held on a $25,000 cash only bond. He is slated to return to court in July for a pre-trial conference. 

With portions of downtown streets torn up for construction feet from The Whisk, owner Joel Everson approached the Greencastle City Council last week to talk about the US 231 construction and its impact on citizens,

"I don't believe it comes as a surprise to anyone on council that there is some construction happening downtown," Everson said. 

Everson told the council both he and his wife, Tosh, had a meeting with Greencastle Mayor Lynda Dunbar to discuss how The Whisk would like to host an event to help the community.

"The reality is it is a tough situation for a lot of downtown businesses and Tosh and I are incredibly fortunate. We've got literally the best guests in the entire world and the best community in the entire world. And, so, people are still coming. And we've not really, personally, seen an impact, but we've talked to a lot of other businesses that have," Everson said. 

Those discussions, as well as the conversation with Dunbar have shown there are some negative sentiments when it comes to the construction and the impact it is again having on merchants. That prompted both Everson and his wife to contemplate how they turn the negatives into a positive. 

And that is when a concept of a block party came about. 

"We really had the idea to do multiple things.We've had several meetings with other downtown local businesses, several of which are really frustrated, struggling and feeling, maybe, a little unseen. So one of the things we would like to do is actually have a fundraiser for local downtown businesses who are being impacted by the lack of business," Everson said. 

Everson continued with details, saying the benefit concert would be a ticketed event and they would partner with the Putnam County Community Foundation. 

"We could set up a fund through the Putnam County Community Foundation that could be drawn upon by any business who is having trouble paying their staff. I am really thinking about the Putnam Inn is getting hit right now, and they're going to get hit even harder in the next phase. In my opinion, what Chris and Rhonda have, and, obviously, Jane and the whole crew there, is an institute of Greencastle. It's been here 50 years. We have an obligation as a community to make sure it stays here. And, so, anyway we can help," Everson said. 

Discussion held over how to help, lack of communication 

Councilman Vincent Aguirre asked Everson what the city council could do to help downtown businesses. 

Everson said he doesn't believe anyone is mad with anyone within the city government with the construction that is happening. 

"We know we don't have control over that. I think where the frustration is there has been a lack of communication both as it happened before it happened. And then I think it'd be really great. It would mean the world if we saw people. It would be great if somebody came and knocked on the door and said, "how can we help?" Everson said. 

The communication piece didn't sit well with Councilman Darrel Thomas.

"Didn't we have community meetings?," Thomas asked, adding if there is a lack of communication and not knowing it is the business owners' fault. 

Everson said plans changed and that Dunbar and the Chamber of Commerce were aware of the changes and did not communicate it out. 

"Now, we can't do anything about that, can we? And I think everybody's okay with that because these things happen and they change quickly. And that's absolutely okay. But I think what we can do is learn from, maybe, our mistakes and take care of one another," Everson said. 

The council voted in favor of closing the street for the event, but did ask Everson call Dunbar to finalize the plans. 

The Putnam County Community Foundation (PCCF) was awarded a grant from the Hendricks Regional Health AED Fund.

A new automated external defibrillator (AED) has been installed for emergency use inside the main PCCF entrance at 2 S. Jackson Street on the southwest corner of the Greencastle courthouse square.

The Hendricks Regional Health Foundation strives to expand public awareness of sudden cardiac arrest and increase survival rates by deploying AEDs to not-for-profit organizations, local school corporations and municipalities throughout Hendricks and Putnam counties as well as neighboring regions.

The Hendricks Regional Health Foundation AED Fund provides life-saving AEDs to our community. This enables the first person on the scene, even someone with minimal training, to give a life-saving shock before paramedics arrive to deliver advanced emergency care.

PCCF hopes to offer the use of the new AED to its downtown business neighbors and other visitors in case of emergency. To better prepare for such an instance, PCCF staff and volunteers received CPR/AED training from our partners at Putnam County CERT.

“We are proud to offer this public resource thanks to our partners at Hendricks Regional Health,” said Neysa Meyer, PCCF Executive Director. “We take this opportunity seriously, so our team committed to learning how to use our new AED in an emergency. We are grateful to CERT for their partnership in providing that vital training and helping us become CPR-certified.”

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

A Thursday afternoon traffic stop initiated by the Spencer Police Department with assistance from the Indiana State Police resulted in the arrest of a Spencer man on drug-related charges.

Trooper Clay McBridge and his K-9 partner Noble, provided assistance and Noble was deployed for a vehicle sniff. As a result of the search, more than one pound of methamphetamine and more than 10 grams of marijuana were seized. The driver, identified as James Edward Corns, 53, of Spencer, was arrested and transported to the Owen County Jail where his custody was transferred.

Corns was arrested on the following charges:

• Dealing Methamphetamine, a Level 2 Felony
• Maintaining a Common Nuisance, Level 6 Felony
• Possession of Marijuana, a Class B Misdemeanor
• Possession of Paraphernalia, a Class C Misdemeanor

A project aimed at bringing a resolution to a major issue in downtown Greencastle is moving full speed ahead as a lighting project will commence soon. 

The project was first discussed last year and features upgrades downtown, as well as 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. 

The Greencastle Redevelopment Commission recently approved a proposal from DB Engineering to do the work, which will run in conjunction to the US 231 construction project. The lighting project comes with a price tag of $734,300 and will be paid through a $200 thousand grant from the Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative and the remainder coming from a local match from the city's Rural Development Commission. 

Local officials have said the project is a need for downtown, as electrical outlets that were put in place 40 years ago were not designed for the usage of today. In the past, vendors plug into a 30-amp service and it blows a fuse. As a result, the new vendor outlets will feature both 120-volt and 240-volt options in new electrical boxes. Furthermore, there will be tree pits added to give the city an option to light trees. 

Greencastle Mayor Lynda Dunbar has said the project is "much 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. 

Putnam County Chamber of Commerce executive director Madison Hanna has been in support of the lighting upgrades for some time. Last year, she approached the Greencastle City Council about the need, stating that a record number of vendors at the 2023 Farmers Market showed the need for improvements to outlets and lighting. 

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. 

"We 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, Hanna said. 

"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. 

Hanna said the new lighting project will be 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.

A dream by two Putnam County business owners has turned into a fun event for children.

And the dream will continue Saturday as Second Saturday kicks off outside Scoops, 13 South Indiana St., Greencastle from 6 pm to 8 pm.

“Second Saturday is a the dream of Andy and Susan Lorimer, owners of Big Bounce Fun House Rentals and members of Greencastle Presbyterian Church.  Andy and Susan came to us several years ago now with the desire to do something for families that was free and fun for kids.  This was right after First Fridays got going, and they wanted to make sure there was a kid-friendly version of that,” said Wes Kendall, pastor at Greencastle Presbyterian Church.

While Susan passed away from cancer last year, her husband and daughter want to see the tradition continue, according to Kendall. 

Second Saturdays runs from May through September the second Saturday of the month. The event includes a bounce house or other activity for kids starting at 6 pm with a main entertainer beginning around 6:45 pm.  

“We can't emphasize this enough.  This event is entirely free to families.  Andy and Susan were dedicated to ensuring that from the beginning, and through their generosity and business, they've made that possible,” Kendall said.

May’s event features magician and comedian Daniel Lusk.

“Daniel's show is perfect for kids, and he has grown into a nationally-recognized entertainer.  We are very lucky to have him in Greencastle for the night, and as a friend of the Lorimer family, he wanted to make sure to be first up for this 2024 season,” Kendall said.

As one of the only appointed school boards in the state of Indiana, the Greencastle Community School Corporation is unique. 

However, one parent is not happy with how things currently are with the district, as Amber Mackey approached the Greencastle City Council about issues within the school district. 

Mackey said as a community, many are concerned with the school board process, district leadership and would like to seek an elected school board. 

"We have concerns that our teacher's voices are not being heard. Our professional teachers aren't being included in the decision process," Mackey said. 

Mackey said there are changes taking place throughout the school district when it comes to Individual Education Plans for students and that have a drastic negative impact on students and their ability to achieve academic success. . 

"Our own daughter, Olivia, has an IEP at TZ. I received an email from the school asking us to sign off on changes not based on our child's progress, but the district's desire to reduce services across the board. We had already had our case conference. Our daughter's teachers at that time had unanimously voiced concerns the services already in her IEP may not be enough. Just weeks later I received an email asking to cut her services almost in half and replace pull out services with push in services, which I can't imagine going well for a child whose IEP specifically relates to her susceptibility to distractions," Mackey said.

Mackey said she immediately began asking questions as to her child's situation.  

"We have recently started her on medication for ADHD in a tentative disorder. I had asked if they had seen drastic improvements in such a short time. I was informed that this had nothing to do with her teacher's level of concern for her, but the principal and assistant superintendent's desire to make changes to all IEPs. These people have never been involved in my daughter's education or any of her evaluations. I was mad at this point and I started digging and asking questions," she told the city council. 

Mackey continued stating that many teachers, staff and administrators have left the Greencastle school district in recent years. 

"We are hearing about those numbers swelling every day. Is it because of our school board? Our superintendent?," she asked, adding administration turnover in every building points to a bigger issue.

She said she has spoken to many in the community who seek an elected school board, as well as a new superintendent and the administration at Tzouanakis Elementary replaced.  

"I haven't heard one person, not one, come to their defense. And that right there speaks volumes as well, considering so many of our children literally cried when TZ's former administrators left," Mackey said. 

Councilwoman Stacey Langdon said the argument for an elected school board is one that has raged for two decades.

"We know it is an issue that is near and dear to many of our residents here. And, I don't know how the council feels, but, speaking for myself, I see your points and I see it's valid because most other school boards are elected," Langdon said. 

City attorney Lauri Hardwick told those in attendance the city of Greencastle has no jurisdiction over the school corporation, because it is made up of Greencastle Township, city jurisdiction and Madison Township. 

Hardwick said that the by-laws of the school corporation, which were written in 1964, spells out how the people are appointed to the school board. 

Councilman Vince Aguirre thanked Mackey for her concerns, stating it is one of his hopes to learn how each candidate for school board plans to dig deeper into issues. 

"As you said, people are leaving, people are concerned and it doesn't feel like people feel comfortable sharing why," Aguirre said. 

Councilman David Masten chimed in that if it was up to a vote of the city council, he believed it would be "pretty close to unanimity on moving away from appointed school board."

While the Greencastle City Council heard about the Greencastle School Board, there were plenty of fireworks between two council members when it came to deadline to get paperwork to city hall for the Greencastle School Board, which was last Friday. 

A total of five applicants applied for the school board, which is one of only a few appointed boards in the state. 

However, councilman David Masten had concerns about the applicants, sparking a back-and-forth heated debate between himself and councilman Vincent Aguirre, who is the lone Democrat on the council.

Masten asked for the deadline to be extended and interviews of candidates pushed out further, and Aguirre asked what the reasons were for his request.

The two went back and forth about the reasons Masten wanted an extension, with Aguirre alleging he wanted more time to ensure his "friends" could get in on the process. 

"So you want to appoint people who miss deadlines to a school board," Aguirre asked Masten. 

Masten made a motion to extend the deadline, prompting Aguirre to express his concern over a comment Masten said.

"I don't think there is very much diversity....," Masten started before Aguirre interrupted asking Masten to say exactly what he said. 

"Say what you said Councilman. You want to make this political so your friends have extra time to vote? That is ridiculous and I am not going to let you do that," Aguirre said. 

Masten told Aguirre to stop him and find four votes to stop the motion. 

"I hope I do, and I hope it puts an end to you constantly doing this," Aguirre said. 

Brian Cox, a member of the school board, questioned Masten and the council of the motion. 

"So I just want to make sure this is clear that the people who cared enough to pay enough attention to meet the deadline, met the deadline, but because other people didn't have a high enough priority for the school that we're now going to change the rules," Cox asked. 

Masten, a Republican, said the desire of his ask was not political. 

"I read the resumes. There are outstanding qualifications here. Okay, but that doesn't mean those are the only five. And, all I am asking for is to extend this arbitrary deadline that was going to cost out. It comes down to me having discussions with people who didn't have enough time to get their applications in on time," Masten said. 

Langdon tried several times to reign the discussion back in for a vote. 

The council voted to keep the five applicants as was and move forward with interviews slated for the first week of June. 

As he watched the final votes come in, the smile on the face of Kerry Williams grew a little larger as people began to congratulate Williams. 
The political newcomer walked away as the top vote getter in the Republican primary for County Council at-large. Williams finished with 2,327 votes or 24.62 percent. 

"It's still kind of sinking in and surreal, I guess. We will see what this is all about. I feel relief that this chapter is closed and we will see if anyone is on the ballot in November," Williams said. 

Williams will be joined in November by fellow Republicans Stephanie Campbell and Amanda Brown. Campbell, an incumbent, finished second with 1,937 votes (20.5 percent) and Brown, a newcomer to politics, finished with 1,874 votes (19.83 percent). Chad Colvin finished fourth with 1,696 votes (17.95 percent) and Daryn Clifford finished fifth with 1,617 votes (17.11 percent).

Brown said it "hadn't kicked in yet" that she advanced to November's general election. 

"I want to thank everyone for their support and their willingness to make a change in how the county is run," Brown told The Putnam County Post. 

For Williams, he said one of his main reasons to run was to keep good employees within the county. 

Andy Beck knows a thing or two about what it means to be a Putnam County Commissioner. 
He had quite the role model in his father, Gene, who spent 26 years as a commissioner before spending another dozen as a county councilman. 
Now, Beck has a seat at the commissioners' table, capturing the Republican primary Tuesday night in a landslide. Beck led from wire to wire and amassed 2,227 votes or 57.52 percent. 

"Thanks Gene. Feels really good and pretty proud," Beck told The Putnam County Post. 

Brad Buchanan finished second with 681 votes (17.59 percent), David Fuhrman was third with 496 votes (12.81 percent) and Don Hatfield finished fourth with 468 votes (12.09 percent). 

"It feels great. Thank you Putnam County and all the voters out there. You never know until the last vote is counted. I never took anything for granted," Beck said. 

Beck already knows what he will focus on should he win in November and it starts with ensuring Putnam County gets its full share of gas tax funds. 

An organization focused on providing support, comfort and safety to children going through a transition in living conditions, Isaiah 117 moved one step closer to putting a house in Putnam County recently. 

The organization had a ground breaking Sunday for a house in Putnam County and Putnam County Program Coordinator Rissa Shepherd could not be more excited. 

"It's such a relief and blessing to have achieved the milestone of breaking ground for the house. It has felt like a long time coming, but, in reality, we only began raising awareness a little over a year and a half ago. With that perspective, we have come a long way in a pretty short amount of time. It speaks to the community understanding the need for this house to serve its most vulnerable residents and their willingness to support it financially," Shepherd told The Putnam County Post. 

Isaiah 117 provides a home where children going through foster care or the Department of Child Services can have a safe, friendly and loving environment that features clean clothes, toys, blankets and more. The mission of the home is simple, it aims to reduce trauma for children awaiting placement, lightens the load for child welfare services and eases the transition for foster families. 

"This home will be used to comfort children when they are removed from a dangerous home situation by DCS. The need is great, and we will also be able to have a positive impact on DCS caseworkers by providing an office in the home for them to do their work, while trained volunteers care for the children. For foster families, we will have on hand everything they might need to be able to say yes to fostering. There will be car seats, pack and plays, formula, diapers, etc. This home will also be prepared to serve four of our neighboring counties: Parke, Clay, Owen and Morgan, until such a time as they have their own Isaiah 117 house. Our goal is to be a resource to as many people as possible," Shepherd said. 

Shepherd said the average time to get one of their homes built is nine months, and she is hopeful they can beat the average. 

"There are a lot of variables, and the biggest one being that nearly 100 percent of the labor on this house will be done on a volunteer basis. That being said, we will have to work around people's paying jobs at times, so it can have a slowing effect on construction," she said. 

Shepherd said there are plenty of ways for people to get involved even while the house is awaiting construction.

"We are always looking for funding, as we are completely dependent on the generosity of people and corporations to build and maintain this home. Isaiah 117 houses do not take any government grants or funds, so we are always happy to find those who want to contribute to the cause," Shepherd said. 

In addition, there are monthly connection meetings at Putnam County Hospital on the third Wednesday of each month from 7 p.m. until 8 p.m. on the third floor classrooms one and two. 

"Everyone is welcome, and it's a great time to meet others and sign up to be on work teams/committees. When the house opens, we will need a minimum of 40 trauma informed care trained volunteers to help with children who have been removed from their homes, as well as other types of volunteer work such as lawn care, cleaning, freezer meals and much more," Shepherd said. 

A difficult decision.

That is how Mark Ketchum defines his decision to resign his seat on the Roachdale Town Council. 

"It was a hard, difficult decision for me, but I felt like I could serve the town better in the role of the utility superintendent than I could on the board. I am sure there are good, qualified people that can fill my seat," Ketchum told The Putnam County Post. 

As a result, the Roachdale Town Council is seeking letters of interest and resumes from residents interested with a deadline of May 13. 

Ketchum said he would not have left the council if he did not feel like the current council could find a good, like minded person to fill his spot. 

"I think we have already accomplished a lot and are really making a dent in getting all town business straightened out. The current sitting board is still making great strides and are on the right path. Even though I am not a board member, I am still making great decisions for the town. I feel I will be able to help more in this role, as I will be boots on the ground, making sure the things we have will be set in motion and accomplished," Ketchum said. 

While a hard decision, Ketchum admits it was "100 percent made for the benefit of the town."

"My only goal is the growth and success of the town, and I think this was one of the best things I could currently do for my community>" he said. 

While he is stepping away for now, Ketchum said he could see himself return to politics one day. 

"If I could get a good person under me and the utility sector and be able to train them to be my successor, then most definitely in the future. I could see stepping away and taking a seat back on the council. Furthermore, if the need arises, I could also see myself sitting in on a different board like county, school board or zoning," Ketchum said. 

With that said, Ketchum had one final message for residents of Roachdale. 

"I am very thankful for all the support of my voters and I want them to know that serving my community is the most important thing," Ketchum said. 

The May primary season will come to a close Tuesday as voters can turn out to help decide what the future of Putnam County may look like.

When it comes to Putnam County offices, Republican voters will have choices in the primary in two local races. 

Four candidates are vying for the nomination for District 1 Putnam County Commissioner. Those running are Andy T. Beck, Brad Buck Buchanan, David Fuhrman and Don B. Hatfield. 

At the County Council level, Republican voters will select three candidates in the primary, while there are five candidates on the ballot. Those running are Amanda Brown, Daryn Clifford, Chad Colvin, Kerry L. Williams and incumbent Stephanie Summitt-Campbell. 

Putnam County Commissioner for District 3 Tom Helmer, Putnam County Auditor Kristina Berish, Putnam County Coroner Todd Zeiner and Putnam County Treasurer Karrie Minor are all running unopposed in the Republican primary.

There are no Democrats running for county office in the primary. 

The contested races are not just exclusive to Putnam County. Congressman Jim Baird, of Greencastle, is facing challengers looking to primary the incumbent Republican. Running are Charles Bookwalter, of Thorntown, Jon Piper, of Camby, and Trent Lester, of Lafayette. 

Democrats Rimpi Girn, of Plainfield, and Derrick Holder, of Martinsville, will square off in the Democratic primary.

Republicans will also have a voice in deciding who will represent their party to fill Senate District 24's seat following the retirement of incumbent John Crane. Avon residents Brett Clark and Anne Engelhardt will square off in the primary with the winner facing former Greencastle Common Council member and Demorcat Veronica Pejril in November. 

Another Statehouse race to watch is that of Senate District 37, as Republican Rod Bray is facing a challenge from Jay Hart. The winner will face Democrat Kimberly Schofield in November. 

The polls will be open Tuesday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. across Putnam County. 

A new website aimed at being the "go to resource for discovering the vibrant businesses nestled within our community amidst the backdrop of the US 231 construction project" is now up and running. 

Greencastle is Open is the website and was formed through a partnership among the City of Greencastle, the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce, West Central ISBDC, Main Street Greencastle, the Tenzer Hub for Entrepreneurship and Greencastle/Putnam County Economic Development. 

The website features construction updates, as well as a spotlight on local businesses, where to park and how to navigate downtown Greencastle. According to Putnam County Chamber of Commerce executive director Madison Hanna, the website "aims to bridge the gap" created by construction and challenges residents and visitors may face, as well as pushing people to downtown businesses. 

"Our goal is to boost their online presence, provide assistance to storefronts affected by construction and encourage the community to shop locally," Hanna told The Putnam County Post. 

For more information, visit www.greencastleisopen.com or search Greencastle is Open on Facebook. 

An interest of fashion and working together as a family has turned into a huge business for Lisa Alward and Jessica Drury, the mother-daughter business owners of Blushing Beaus Boutique.

The business, which is located at 8 West Washington St., Greencastle, initially began online.

“We started online and had been thinking about opening a brick and mortar space. We visited Greencastle and loved the town. We loved the look and feel of the historic buildings downtown, as well as the community. We offer ladies clothing, shoes, and accessories, as well as fragrances and a candle line. We want everyone to feel welcome and enjoy their shopping experience,” Alward told The Putnam County Post.

Currently, Blushing Beaus is dealing with the US 231 construction, but the owners are remaining optimistic.

“Construction has only just begun but it is definitely a challenge navigating downtown right now. It is difficult for customers, especially new customers, to find us and there is no parking at all down through the construction area. Customers definitely need to research and plan their route because of parking and so many side streets not being accessible. That being said, we truly appreciate all of the people who do navigate the maze to find us. Supporting local business is what keeps the town growing and thriving and shopping local is at the heart of that,” Alward said.

The business features women’s clothing with sizes ranging from small through 3xl with a mission of making women of all sizes feel beautiful and confident.

“I appreciate getting to know the people who shop with me, whether it’s their first time or they’re a returning customer. I love helping them to feel beautiful and confident,” Alward said.

Indiana businesses, local governments, solid waste management districts, higher education institutions and nonprofit organizations are invited to submit grant proposals ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 to fund recycling projects through the Indiana Recycling Market Development Program (RMDP).

Projects should demonstrate sustainability, an understanding of the changing economy for recyclers and how grant money can be used to boost recycling in Indiana through expanded markets, manufacturing capacity and job creation.

Proposals will be accepted through June 13, 2024. Eligible proposals must show economic impact, increased public awareness through tangible outreach and education efforts, and result in at least one of the following:

• an increase in the amount of recyclable material collected or used;
• a reduction in municipal solid waste shipped for final disposal;
• improved partnerships with communities.

RMDP grants are administered through the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM). Final funding determinations will be made this fall.

With prom season underway and the school calendar inching closer to the last day of school, students at Cloverdale High School got an up close and personal lesson in how drunk driving can change a life. 

Earlier this week, the Indiana State Police Putnamville Post participated in a mock accident scene involving an intoxicated driver. The purpose of the event was to educate students on the importance of never driving while intoxicated, not driving distracted, not speeding and always buckling up before leaving. 

Indiana State Police officials said with Cloverdale's prom slated for this weekend, it was important to show how bad decisions can ruin a fun time. 

"Indiana State Police, along with Cloverdale Community Schools wanted to educate all students on making the right decisions when it's time to drive," ISP Sgt. Matt Ames said. 

Cathy Ames, director of curriculum and instruction at Cloverdale, echoed those sentiments. 

"Mock drinking and driving accidents before prom serve as a powerful reminder that the consequences of those actions are real, irreversible and devastating. We always want our Clovers to be safe," she said. 

The Hendricks County Sheriff’s Office in addition to the Hendricks County Coroner’s Office is investigating a double-fatal motor vehicle crash that occurred on Wednesday.

The crash was at the intersection of South County Road 0 and County Road 900 S., north of Hazelwood. About 7:35 a.m., Hendricks County deputies were dispatched to the intersection and located two vehicles, both with severe damage; a Chevrolet Traverse, occupied by four adults and a GMC Sierra Pickup, occupied by one adult and two children. 

Two passengers in the Traverse were pronounced dead on the scene and another passenger in the Traverse was transported to an area hospital by St. Vincent StatFlight in critical condition.  The driver of the Traverse, the driver of the GMC pickup and the two children were transported to area hospitals by ambulance and are believed to be in stable condition.

Preliminary investigation indicates the Chevrolet Traverse was traveling eastbound on County Road 900 S.  The Traverse is believed to have disregarded the stop sign at the intersection where it struck the pickup, which was traveling northbound on South County Road 0. 

The Hendricks County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstructionist Team is investigating this crash.  In addition to disregarding a stop sign, excessive speed of the Traverse is a possible contributing factor. 

Toxicology results are pending.  No charges have been filed at this time.

Names are being withheld to ensure proper notifications have been made to the families of the deceased. 

For Sam and Megan Toth, the opportunity to provide food for their fellow Putnam County residents truly is a way of life. 

"As kids, Sam grew his passion for hunting across the country, and I was always diverged in anything plant related. Together, we formed a "hunter-gatherer" relationship. For 16 years, we have been homesteading and living a self sufficient lifestyle, even when we lived in town. Homesteading is not defined by where you live, but by the lifestyle choices you make," Megan Toth told The Putnam County Post. 

Those lifestyle choices and their "hunter-gatherer" relationship has evolved into Hidden Hawk Homestead and a FarmStand to the public. Hidden Hawk Homestead is located at 3120 South County Road 150 West, Greencastle. 

In 2021, the Toths moved from Greencastle to Limedale in rural Putnam County. 

Toth said the move allowed them to do more when it comes to agriculture. 

"We were able to expand more with our regenerative agriculture practices, as well as learn new skills and passions along the way. Our animals and soil work together to create this perfect, simple life," Toth said. 

Since 2021, the Toths have been selling things off their farm, but this spring they decided to open a FarmStand to the public. 

"We sell chicken and duck eggs, seasonal vegetables, herb and flower starts, fresh herbs, dried herbs, tea blends, flower bouquets, produce and baked goods. We also sell hatching eggs, chicks, ducklings and pedigreed rabbits, as well as manure fertilizer off of the stand by appointment," Toth said. 

And, it truly is from the farm to the table, she said. 

"Everything we do is completely grown, cultivated and produced from our land," Toth said. 

Toth said her and her husband enjoy every aspect of the job, especially sharing their passion and goods with the community. 

"We love to offer a variety of goodies so that there is something for everyone. We have also enjoyed people's reactions when they first see the stand. The stand was a true labor of love and it gives us so much joy that others are feeling that love. We have even had people stop by to take selfies in front of our stand," Toth said. 

She added the community has been absolutely supportive so far.

"Lots of people look forward to our Facebook posts each weekend to see what we will have available. We pride on seasonal growing, so our stand is always changing," Toth said. 

The stand is open every Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. until October.

While it has been an often wet spring at times in Greencastle, that is not stopping the heavy lifting from taking place at Robe-Ann Park. 

According, to Greg Ruark, Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Greencastle, Phase II renovations are well underway and are in good shape despite rains at times. 

"Things are moving along well," Ruark told The Putnam County Post. 

With Phase I dealing with the eastern portion of the park and completed last November, Phase II picks up right where the prior renovations left off. The work is the result of a Land and Water Conservation Grant from the government by way of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, according to Ruark. 

Phase II includes a new basketball court adjacent to Shelter 5, additional viewing areas for parents to watch their children at the Emerald Palace Playground, and a  reopening of a road to connect the road to the lower bowl road, which encircles Shelter 1 and the bandshell. 

In addition, there will be a food vendor plaza just east of Shelter 1, which will be utilized for the Fourth of July event, in addition to other potential large crowd events, Ruark said. 

"It will simplify some of the parking issues, which are problematic in order to make these areas easier to enter and exit. Most importantly, it will address non-compliant issues within the park in order to bring the park up to ADA compliance. This involves new, accessible points by way of new sidewalks," Ruark said.  

The renovations are slated to be done by July 1. 

Hundreds turned out Sunday night to hear stories of hope and recovery and remember those lost to addiction during the third annual Recovery Raw benefit dinner at the Putnam County Fairgrounds. 

For Recovery Raw founder Eric Rippy, the night was another opportunity to support Putnam County, help reduce recidivism and honor and celebrate all those who have faced addiction. 

"It is great to watch frowns go to smiles. The good thing about tonight is we get to see recovery. One thing I have heard three different times is the people in the streets known once you come to Recovery Raw, it is over. You better be ready when you walk in because all the BS is over," Rippy said. 

Rippy said in 2016, only two to three would sit around and talk at Recovery Raw meetings, and today, there are upwards of 80 adults and 25 kids in the Recovery Raw kids program. 

"You made us family. You made us the beneficiary for grants. You hosted benefit rides for us and when you lost loved ones, instead of flowers, you asked for donations to go to Recovery Raw," Rippy said. 

The night also featured speeches by those whose lives were impacted by addiction. 

Nate Smith is one such individual, who gave his testimony during the dinner. 

"What a difference a year makes. A year ago today, I was being transported from one county to another. That 60-mile drive is one I will remember forever," Smith said. 

Smith said he didn't think there was anything wrong with his prior lifestyle and didn't think attending Recovery Raw would make a difference. 

"I got down on my knees, prayed and picked up a Bible. On Aug. 3, 2023, I was released from jail, picked up by my sister and went to Recovery Raw. I found a room filled with people that I grew up and used with," Smith said. 

Brynn Hall also shared her testimony, noting she has been clean for over a year. 

At age 15, Hall said she tried meth for the first time and over the years, she became addicted to pills, meth and endured losing her children. 

However, her story is one of redemption, as she was able to celebrate on stage with her children and husband after her speech. 

For Carrie Bolen, her life will forever be changed as a result of drugs. 

"April 10, 2024, my life changed. At 11:58 p.m., I woke up to six missed calls and knew it was about my daughter. I called my ex husband back and he said, "She's gone, Carrie." Those words still ring in my ears today," Bolen said, remembering her daughter, Olivia Ryland. 

Bolen said her daughter found drugs and alcohol to numb her depression. 

"We knew we couldn't save her. If Earthly love could save her, she'd be here today. It took almost 48 hours to find a treatment center in Florida that would accept her. She stayed 53 days, relapsed and came home. I have anger with the lack of readily available resources," Bolen said. 

Jill Albers, children's program director at Recovery Raw, said that while Greencastle and Putnam County may be small, she has seen the good outweigh the bad on more than one occasion. 

"The Recovery Raw community may be little, but this kind of love and support, you won't find that in a big city. The best part is when children ask us to help celebrate their mom and dad's sobriety. We have 20-22 kids each Thursday, but have had as many as 33, which is nice because parents are getting their kids back," Albers said. 

Melissa Miller-Jones recounted her first time getting involved in drugs and what helped her break the addiction, which sadly, involved a very personal loss. She said the loss of her daughter, Keridan Ka'mea Lei Lani Manaios Hollis, prompted her to get sober. 

Miller-Jones said she was arrested for the first time at the age of 33. 

"Sobriety has been hard the last year and a half. Trauma has happened for us to use. The last time I was in jail was October 2022. I got a call in jail that my daughter passed away. I decided to get clean and meet with Eric at Recovery Raw," she said. 

For Josh Mitchell, the dinner was the first one that he actually walked into, noting in his speech, the last two years he would pull into the parking lot and turned around, heading back home. 

Miller said his addiction began after he lost his father at the age of 11 and he turned to marijuana before "graduating" to meth. 

"In 2016, I was doing time and got called to the office for a phone call. I didn't know what to expect, but my sister had been in an accident where the driver and all the passengers had used heroin. I got out and fell face first. There was no limit to try and numb the pain," he said. 

After a series of DUI's and jail time, combined with personal losses due to deaths and a stint on house arrested, Mitchell showed up to Recovery Raw for the first time and has excelled since. 

"I watched peopled get their family and kids back and people go from victims to victors," Mitchell said of Recovery Raw. 

The final speaker of the night was Chasity Bradford, who actually spoke at the first dinner. She recalled her speech from that night, as well as celebrating the fact that on May 17, she will be clean for four years. 

For Rippy, the night allowed him to remember his own story of addiction and redemption. 

"Tonight is all about the things you've heard and the speakers. I could have been released in 2016 and gone anywhere in the United States, but God moved me to Putnam County. With the doors God's opened, and all of you in our corner, we are only starting," Rippy said. 

With the use of UTVs on city streets throughout Greencastle finally approved, city officials are now bracing for the registration and inspection process that must take place before residents can utilize the vehicles in Greencastle. 

Greencastle Mayor Lynda Dunbar said the signs have been put up around town after the Greencastle City Council approved the ordinance allowing their use in March. The next step is residents registering the vehicles with city hall and then having them inspected by the Greencastle Police Department. Registration forms can be found at Greencastle City Hall, 1 North Locust St. 

The registration does come with several rules and regulations. All drivers shall meet the following requirements: Be at least 18 years of age or older, possess an Indiana driver's license, have insurance, wear a seatbelt and all passengers must wear a seatbelt. Furthermore, the ability to use the UTV on city streets comes with a $100 registration fee for inspection and processing. The permit may be renewed for additional one year periods upon payment of a renewal fee of $35, which shall be paid annually. The permit cannot be transferred to other vehicles or owners. 

The ordinance also states the vehicles cannot be used on city streets from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., cannot be driven on sidewalks, pathways or city grass and cannot be driven on Veterans Memorial Highway. 

The ordinance also comes with punishment for those who do not comply with the first offense coming with a $100 fine. A second fine would be $250 and a 60 day suspension from using UTV vehicles on city streets. A third violation results in a $500 fine and a lifetime suspension. 

The ordinance does not include golf carts, ATVs, three or four wheelers and slow moving vehicles. 

Greencastle Police Chief Christopher Jones told The Putnam County Post his department has already done over 30 UTV inspections with more being scheduled each week moving forward. The number of inspections done include the 26 UTVs that DePauw University has. 

"We will post some info on our Facebook page in the next week or so as we ramp up to full capabilities," Jones said. 

Jones said in addition to DePauw's fleet, his department has also done inspections for a "handful of residents."

"We will have weekly appointments set up going forward with residents who are turning in their applications," Jones said. 

Dunbar said she is looking forward to seeing residents bring their UTVs to Greencastle despite the US 231 construction that is taking place. 

"Residents can take the back roads, cross over the construction and come shop at our local businesses or eat at our restaurants downtown. I think it is going to be a very good thing for Greencastle," Dunbar said. 

Under the ordinance, the UTV vehicles would be allowable to navigate city streets and would require proper signage around the city. According to the ordinance, the UTV must have a dry weight of no more than 2,500 pounds, be designed for travel on at least four non highway or off highway tires, be designed for recreational use by one or more individuals, have the ability to operate at the posted speed limit and be equipped with safety belts for all passengers, have side mirrors or a rear view mirror, a traditional steering wheel, two headlights and turn signals and a brake light. 

In what is becoming an every day occurrence with the 231 construction around the Putnam County Courthouse, semi trucks continue to disregard signs around town stating no thru trucks are allowed in downtown Greencastle. 

"The main issue is semi trucks disregarding the detours and going through the construction zone. It's getting better since last Friday when the hard closure went into effect at Jackson and Franklin streets, but we are still seeing some semi trucks getting through," Greencastle Police chief Christopher Jones told The Putnam County Post. 

Jones said Greencastle Police has been doing additional patrols in and near the construction zones when officers aren't responding to criminal matters. 

"We have had additional signage added in some directions to help us get the messaging out. We have reached out to some of the other law enforcement agencies in the area to assist with detouring semi trucks before they get downtown," Jones said. 

In addition, Jones is working with Greencastle's Public Works Department to put up additional barricades and signs, as needed. 

"I am also staying in contact with the construction site manager and working on strategies to help make traffic flow and safety as good as we can, while addressing problems as they pop up. This is something we are actively monitoring day by day and doing adjustments as we go," Jones said.