WROI News

Indiana celebrates Eva Kor Day

The Fulton County Public Library honors Holocaust survivor Eva Kor on statewide Eva Kor day.


With Indiana ties Eva Kor made her life mission to spread awareness of the tragedies she had to endure being a twin at Auschwitz subjected to the tests of Josef Mengele.

 


A-7063 is the documentary that was shown earlier this week for Eva Kor day. Miller says it was at times difficult to watch especially with the Auschwitz footage shown early.
 


Eva Kor passed away last year, Governor Holcomb declared January 27 to be Eva Kor day.

 

Local lawn care business owners seeking change

Disgruntled contractors have their voice heard at the Board of Works meeting Thursday.


Street Department Head Lennie Conley needs the leaves on the curb to sweep them up and dispose of them properly. He says with the complaints being heard last night it is not as easy of a fix as the contractors would think, it involves changing the rules as they stand now.


 


Even if the ordinance were to be changed for the contractors Conley says the move still doesn’t make sense for the city as it would put unnecessary amounts of wear and tear on the equipment.


 


The discussion has been tabled for now but is expected to be picked up again at the next Board of Works meeting.

 


Woodlawn looking to turn things around in 2020

A down year for Woodlawn Hospital puts them 2 million dollars in the hole.


CEO of Woodlawn John Alley recaps the 2019 year.

 

 

The Directors for Woodlawn also had the opportunity to speak at the meeting. They chose to use this time to discuss the potential of new equipment making its way to the hospital.


 

 

NCIF scholarship deadline is Monday

Time is running out to apply for the scholarships being offered through the Northern Indiana Community Foundation.


Foundation Director of Development Brian Johnson is warning high school seniors that for the scholarship opportunities they are now in the eleventh hour.

 


The best way to apply for the scholarships is online, Johnson says for the winners being announced it will depend on when the schools in the area have their honor programs.

 


For more information call Alison Heyde at 223-2227

 


Bremen Rep. Jordan looking to reduce school regulation

Legislators are taking a machete to a jungle of school regulations.

 

Representative Jack Jordan (R-Bremen) says there are nearly 1600 sections of Indiana law setting rules for schools to follow. The House has unanimously approved his bill to let schools apply for waivers from anything that doesn't involve safety, collective bargaining, budget or test scores.

 

Jordan says the goal is to get rid of anything that gets in the way of the central mission of educating students. If there's a stack of waiver requests for a specific rule, that'll be a red flag for legislators to consider repealing it.

 

The bill also directs the State Board of Education to reexamine how long and how often teachers have to go through training on topics from bullying to epilepsy. Teachers must undergo training on nearly two dozen topics. Jordan says they're all worthy subjects in isolation, but the accumulation of them is too much. The bill asks the State Board to try to at least spread out the schedule.

 

The bill also makes good on House Republicans and Governor Holcomb's pledge to repeal a six-month-old externship requirement calling on teachers to spend 15 hours with a local business to keep up-to-date on job opportunities for their students.

Pulaski Co. coroner receives appointment from the governor

The Pulaski County coroner has been appointed to a committee by Governor Eric J. Holcomb.

 

Joe Frain, of Winamac, has been appointed to the Statewide Domestic Violence Fatality Review Committee.

 

Frain will serve until Jul 31, 2022.

 

 

 


Budget set for construction of Fulton County jail

Official contract for the new Fulton County Jail agreed upon with construction set to being soon.

Fulton County Commissioner Bryan Lewis says a max contract was agreed to for just over 23 million dollars with the possibility of additional charges coming due to alternate options.

 

 

Lewis says the good news is when talking to the financial advisors for the county it appears that Fulton County is ahead schedule compared to other counties that have built jails.

 

 

Expect ground to be broken for the new jail at some time in March with construction to conclude in May of 2021.

Rep. Gutwein honored at veterans ceremony

State Rep. Douglas Gutwein (R-Francesville) today at the Statehouse was recognized before several Indiana veterans groups for his work supporting Indiana’s bravest men and women. 
Gutwein, a Vietnam War veteran and member of the House Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee, received a “Service Before Self” Award at the 6th Annual Indiana Military Veterans Legislative Day honoring both his military service and legislative efforts to help Hoosier veterans. 


“My service in the Army had a strong and lasting impact on my life, making me the person I am today,” Gutwein said. “As a veteran, I’ve made it my duty to do all I can to help my fellow service men and women. I’m honored to be in a position where I can help improve the lives of Hoosier veterans and active service members, and will continue doing so for as long as I am in office.” 
Gutwein served in the U.S. Army for three years following his high school graduation, and was stationed in Germany and Vietnam. 

 

In 2019, Gutwein authored a law to better notify Hoosier veterans of available resources by adding questions regarding a person’s veteran status to Indiana’s driver’s license application. He also co-authored a law to phase in a complete military income tax exemption over a four-year period. 

 

Gutwein was presented the award at the 6th Annual Indiana Military Veterans Legislative Day at the Statehouse in Indianapolis. The nonpartisan event is intended to encourage veterans and their families to visit the Statehouse and discuss veterans issues directly with their state legislators.

 


Special services workshop on the way for Rochester Schools

Important dates coming up for students of Rochester Schools.

 

Jen Shank Director of Special Services with Rochester Schools wants to encourage the community to stop by a workshop coming up on February 20th.


 


With a couple more months left in this school year it is already time to think about registering your young ones for school next year, kindergarten round up is right around the corner.


 

 

Drug and gun toss doesn't stop Cass Co. arrest

Charges against a Cass County driver who threw drugs and a gun out the window during a police chase.

 

Deputies tried to stop Arielle Griffis, of Logansport, Monday morning. But she refused to stop. As she sped off, she rolled down the window and threw out a gun and a baggie of meth.

 

Griffis eventually stopped and was arrested for drug possession and resisting arrest.


First mobile food bank at Mill Creek Church

Over 150 showed up at Mill Creek Church for their first mobile food bank.

 

The pastor at Mill Creek, Chris Beall, said as a group they were plenty excited to put this event on Monday afternoon. Beall loves seeing the smiling faces in the church excited to get in out of the cold and use the mobile food bank.

 

 

Mobile Pantry Coordinator with Food Finders Food Bank Alex Buckles is excited to once again be in Fulton County to help those in need.

 

 

With the high turnout for the first mobile food bank at Mill Creek Beall says they are hoping to do this again at least twice in the coming months.

Shepherd appeal notice filed

An appeal is planned in the Alyssa Shepherd case.

 

A notice of appeal has been filed on Shepherd's conviction on reckless homicide, criminal recklessness and passing a school bus causing injury charges.

 

Shepherd was sentenced to four years in the DOC, three years home detention and three years on probation.

Wabash burglary suspect arrested

Wabash Police have announced the arrest of a suspect in multiple burglaries.

 

Wabash Police responded to burglaries at Abundant Life Properties located at 65 E. Hill Street in the past year. The burglaries were reported on September 30, 2019, and December 30, 2019. Both burglaries were caught on surveillance video at the property.

 

This investigation was ongoing. With the assistance and cooperation of Abundant Life Properties a suspect was identified. The investigation led Wabash Police to a person of interest, Joshua E. Hueston.

 

Wabash Police allege that Hueston confessed to both burglaries at Abundant Life Properties.

 

Paperwork was forwarded to the Wabash County Prosecutor’s office. On January 17, 2020, Wabash Police served an arrest warrant on Joshua E. Hueston, 45, Wabash, on two counts of burglary and one count of possession of marijuana.

Missing Notre Dame student found dead

The body of a missing Notre Dame student has been found.
 
Annrose Jerry's body was found in St. Mary's Lake on the Notre Dame campus Friday around 11:15 a.m., according to a statement released by the school. A coroner was able to identify her at the scene.
 
Her body revealed no apparent signs of trauma.
 
The 21-year-old was a senior at Notre Dame, and had been missing since Tuesday. A Silver Alert was issued on Thursday evening.
 
"We're deeply saddened by the passing of Annrose," Rev. John Jenkins, Notre Dame president, said in a statement. "We will keep her and her family and friends in our prayers.
 
ABC57 says an autopsy is scheduled for Saturday in Fort Wayne.

Fulton County Commissioner Meeting

Due to Monday being a holiday for the Fulton County Commissioners meeting was pushed back to Tuesday. Commissioner Bryan Lewis says the first meeting of the year is normally reserved for handling end of the year duties as well as those that come with the new year. The Commissioners want to make sure that the roads are as up to date as they can be, unfortunately some of the roads are starting to get worn down and the Commissioners are working to get the issue resolved.

 

 

Fulton County Sheriff Chris Sailors also spoke Tuesday night. He compared some of the numbers

from 2018 to 2019 that the Sheriff Department has seen.

 

 

Fulton County Council Meeting

The Fulton County Council meeting got started last night with everyone hearing from Terry Lee from FEDCO telling how the board is being trimmed down. 

 

 

After Terry Lee last night Round Barns Lab took to the floor, they are hoping to get more involved in Fulton County in hopes of sparking some interest in innovation for the community.

 

 

Walorski to seek another term in Washington

Rep. Jackie Walorski would like another term representing Hoosiers in the state's second congressional district.

 

The district encompasses the bulk of northern Indiana, including South Bend, Elkhart, Plymouth, and Rochester. Giving her a boost of confidence in her ability to secure her third-term in Washington, she believes, will be the impeachment effort by congressional Democrats.

 

"It's a swing distinct that I run in, but I'm very grateful even though the left is swinging out of control at the moment," Walorski said. "It's a completely partisan battle with all this impeachment stuff. I think we are in a great position to take the House back."

 

Democrats regained control of the House of Representatives in the 2018 mid-term elections.

The 2nd district has not been represented by a Democrat since Joe Donnelly. That was also before the state legislature redrew Indiana's congressional districts in 2012.

 

"When you look at our communities and our country, I think there are many ways to make them stronger," she said. "A lot of it is wrapped up in what we've been able to to the last couple years."

 

In some of her accomplishments in her second term, Walorski authored legislation to repeal the medical device tax under Obamacare, which was set to be reinstated January 1st of this year. The bill passed the House but so far the Senate has not acted on it.

 

Looking ahead, Walorski wants to push through pro-life legislation when it comes to abortion and make an effort to make it easier for Hoosiers to trade under the USMCA Trade Agreement.

 

According to Ballotpedia, Two Democrats are seeking their parties nomination to face Walorski in the November election: Pat Hackett, a prominent civic leader, lawyer, and teacher in St. Joseph County, and Ellen Parks, who is a lawyer from South Bend.

Suspect in Wabash shooting chased, caught in Marion

A Marion man who shot at police during a chase said he hand nothing to lose. Police found  a woman and her 8-month-old daughter in the car.

 

Marion Police, Grant County Sheriff's deputies and Indiana State Police pulled Cori C. Gentry over on Wednesday night, because he was wanted for questioning in a Wabash shooting that injured someone on January 20.

 

Police say Gentry refused to get out of his car and that's when he said he had nothing to lose and drove into an Indiana State Police cruiser and then backed into a Marion Police car before driving off.

 

During the chase he opened the driver's side door on G Street in Marion and shot twice at police.

 

Gentry the hit another police car on East Grant Street, and then lost control of his car in an alley and hitting a tree.

 

He tossed the gun out of the car, and police arrested him. Police then found a woman and baby in the car. The woman said she was driving the car before the car was pulled over, and was ordered to switch seats by Gentry. She and the baby were taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

 

No officers were injured, and police say they are still investigating.

Flexibility Coming for Teachers in Indiana

The House Education Committee advanced Wednesday State Rep. Jack Jordan’s (R-Bremen) bill that would add flexibility for education regulations and licensure renewal requirements. 
Jordan’s legislation would empower local schools to determine which education laws and requirements work best for their districts by applying for a waiver with the State Board of Education for hundreds of state regulations. The State Board of Education would also be tasked with evaluating and streamlining Indiana’s current teacher training requirements. 


“With the needs of young Hoosiers constantly growing and changing, schools need the flexibility to determine which requirements will best serve their students and be the most efficient use of teachers’ time,” Jordan said. “By streamlining existing mandates and empowering local schools to apply for waivers, we can better ensure success for both students and educators.”  

 

According to Jordan, Indiana teachers currently have four options to renew their license. Under one option, teachers can develop a Professional Growth Plan and complete 90 points or hours over five years. This legislation would revise a 2019 law requiring 15 of those points be obtained through professional development related to the state’s or an educator’s community’s workforce needs. 

 

“Educators across the state expressed their concerns with the law that went into effect last year regarding one teacher licensure renewal option, and they have been heard,” Jordan said. “Educators play a significant role in students’ lives, and their help and guidance as young Hoosiers prepare for life after graduation is invaluable. Students often look to their teachers for advice on selecting the career path for them, so knowledge of all options, including trades and technical education, is extremely important.” 

 

Jordan said this is still a valuable option for teachers as Indiana continues to address workforce needs. 

 

Charges Made in Kokomo Shooting

On December 8th, 2019, at approximately 10:38 p.m., Kokomo Police responded to reports of shots fired in the 2100 block of Mark Lane. Officers found 15-year-old Dalton W. Fisher suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Dalton was pronounced deceased at the scene.

 
In addition to the arrest of Kyli L. Fisher, age 22, being arrested earlier in this investigation for Neglect of a Dependent, Possession of a Handgun without a Permit, and Dealing a Controlled Substance, investigators have arrested three juveniles on charges related to this incident. The following charges have been filed against these juveniles with additional charges expected:


• A 14-year-old male from Kokomo on a charge of Conspiracy to Commit Robbery Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury (Level 2 Felony) as per I.C. 35-42-5-1


• A 14-year-old male from Kokomo on a charge of Attempted Robbery resulting in serious bodily injury (Level 2 Felony) as per I.C. 35-42-5-1


• A 17-year-old male from Kokomo on a charge of Attempted Robbery resulting in serious bodily injury (Level 2 Felony) as per I.C. 35-42-5-1

 

This case remains active for investigation.  Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Detective Erik Fogg (765) 456-7369 or the Kokomo Police Department Hotline at (765) 456-7017.  You may qualify for a cash reward by calling Central Indiana Crime Stoppers at 1-800-262-TIPS with your anonymous tip.

 

Wings Etc Honored with Double I Award

Just over a month after making the move to Rochester official with the opening of Wings Etc the restaurant received the Double I award on Tuesday. Executive Director with the Fulton County Chamber of Commerce Jillian Kreamer explains the recognition that comes with the prestigious award.

 

 

Store Manager Heather Royhans says Wings Etc is excited to be calling Rochester home and the store has been doing very well in its opening month.

 

 

Nominees for the next Double I award can be sent to chamber@rtcol.com.

 

 

Eastern Pulaski Welcomes New Superintendent

The first School Board meeting for new Superintendent of Eastern Pulaski Schools Dara Chezem, she admits she was plenty excited to be sitting at the head of the table having been on the other side for years. She says the first meeting of the year normally handles a lot of formalities. 

 

 

With all the success that Eastern Pulaski Schools has seen recently Chezem knows there is no need to hit a reset button, she is looking forward to taking the torch and continuing to grow the success.

 

 

Marshall County Woman Charged with Death of Baby

A woman from Marshall County is charged with the death of her baby after an autopsy found meth in the child's system.


Ashlee Rans, 36, initially told Plymouth police she rolled over onto the baby while she was asleep, killing it.


But the Marshall County Coroner says an autopsy revealed amphetamine and methamphetamine in the baby's system.


Court papers say Rans was breastfeeding and admitted to using meth just days before her baby died.


Rans faces two counts of neglect of a dependent resulting in death. She could spend up to 40 years in prison, if convicted.

 

Akron Man Charged with Child Molestation

Austin Collins of Akron is charged with child molestation from an incident that happened in early December of 2019 in Kosciusko County. In an interview with the Sheriff’s Department Collins admitted to raping a youth under the age of 14. Bond has been set at $51,000.

Fulton County Chamber of Commerce holds first meeting

The calendar has flipped to 2020 and the Fulton County Chamber of Commerce is looking forward to a great year in the community. The Chamber recently held their first board meeting of the year and Executive Director Jillian Kreamer says there were some fresh faces at the table. 

 

 

Kreamer says the first meeting always starts by going over the basics for staying within Chamber guidelines.

 

 

The Chamber is always ready to welcome new members and encourages all to apply to be a Chamber member.

 

Education Discussed at Legislative Breakfast

Saturday in the basement of the Kewanna Public Library Fulton County Residents had the opportunity to hear from their representatives, as well as engage in a Q&A after the legislators presentations. Senator Stacey Donato as well as Representatives Jack Jordan and Ethan Manning were in attendance; Representative Douglas Gutwein was the only of the four scheduled to not make an appearance.


Donato, Jordan, and Manning all spoke about education and how important it is to them when they are in session. Specifically Rep. Jordan says the goal is to provide flexible teacher training and the regulation of schools. With the 2020 legislative session scheduled to be a short session we might see an accelerated process to see bills signed into law.


Of the crowd, totaling roughly 40 people most were teachers so the topics on hand hit close to home. During the Q&A session plenty of opinions were voiced, some that stood out included and Culver teacher who spoke of concerns with the state taking over funding leaves question as to budget on a year by year basis, which impacts the training teachers go through and in fact some teachers have to pay out of pocket for their training to keep their license.


Helping students with social and emotional learning was the concern for a teacher from Plymouth. He says this used to be funded by the state but with that no longer the case the schools are doing the best they can to help students. Training is needed for these teachers to make sure they can help students through whatever situation might be troubling them. Plymouth has 20 minutes every Tuesday scheduled to help students with social and emotional difficulties, however the challenge again is sometimes the message from the students is getting to teachers who have not received the proper training.


Overall a very productive day in Kewanna as Legislators had the opportunity to hear from the community about concerns for the area, and now it will be brought back with Senator Donato as well as Representatives Jordan and Manning to session. Rochester Meat and Deli will be hosting the next Legislative Breakfast Series on February 15.

 

Legislative Breakfast at Kewanna Public Library

Saturday Fulton County residents have the opportunity to hear for their representatives about the upcoming sessions at the Kewanna Public Library, coffee and donuts will be provided. Fulton County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jillian Kreamer says this event normally gets a great turnout.

 

 

Board of Public Works Meeting

The Board of Public Works and Safety meeting last night started promptly at 5:00 with the approval of minutes from the previous meeting, this was followed by the discussion of Bill Rogers and the allowance of him to have a temporary moving pod at his residence come mid March.


The big discussion of the night came from an individual voicing his concern over the sewer tap fees assessed to him on his property and the three houses he had been building. Two of the houses were built before the rates were raised as for the third one the application process had not been completed under the old rates. The Council decided that the third house will have to pay the new rates.

 

New flooring on the way for City Hall as well as the Police Department the quotes were originally going to be done in pieces however the council is hopeful  that instead of it being done in pieces it can be a complete overhaul done at once and in a timely manner.

 

The Times Theater was brought to the attention of the Council as well in terms of the water issues the building is dealing with. An issue on the roof has led to an accumulation of water in the basement, the number thrown out for just how much water was around 2,000 gallons.

 

The next Board of Public Works and Safety meeting is scheduled for January 30 at 5 in the evening at the Rochester City Building Complex.

 

Chamber Adulting 101 Class

Fulton County's Upcoming Empowered Leaders or FUEL, is excited to introduce a new series, Adulting 101! We will kick off the first of five sessions with Bryan Bell, Registered Representative with LPL Financial/First Federal Savings Bank. All are invited to join us on Tuesday, February 4th for lunch with peers during a presentation entitled "The Language of Investing" at Nubiano's in Rochester. 

 

 

Rochester State of the City Address

People sitting elbow to elbow as the conference room was at capacity in Woodlawn Hospital for the Kiwannis Meeting to hear from Rochester Mayor Ted Denton for his State of the City Address. Denton started by speaking on how easy his job is made with the fantastic staff he operates with.

 

 

In his closing remarks Denton announced the Citizen of the Year for Rochester, saying that it is unfortunate that this Emerson Enyart passed away three months ago and Rochester is missing a pillar in the community.

 

 

REMC Camps

REMC in Fulton County has an amazing opportunity for some of the youth in the area to get out of the house, learn, and have plenty of fun along the way. Member Service Manager TJ Garner says a camp is available for students going into 7th grade and they often find kids don’t want to leave when camp is over.

 

 

With the Touchstone camp always a popular one Garner says high school students also have a chance to register for a camp of their own. This trip will head out to Washington D.C. to see how the nation’s capital works as well as visit monuments.

 

 

For more information on the camps upcoming with REMC visit their website or give them a call at 574-223-3156

 

Park Board Meeting draws huge crowd

A packed house for the Park Board meeting on Monday night saw roughly 60 people cram into City Hall with the bulk of the discussion revolving around the golf course. Rochester Mayor Ted Denton recaps the meeting.

 


Denton says the numbers at the moment are alarming with a loss for 2019 of $214,369. He was advised that should the course continue down this road the doors will likely be closed within the next 7 years. Denton says the time is now to turn this ship around.
 


Denton knows that Rome wasn’t built in a day and says the Park Board is discussing multiple ideas to help the course.

 

Reahard Runs for House Seat again

Russell “Russ” Reahard announced he will again seek the Indiana House of Representatives District 18 seat, currently held by Dave Wolkins, according to a news release provided Friday. Nick Deranek reports.


 

 

Times Theater receives donation

Reagan Trottier of the Fulton County Amateur Thespians stopped by the Times Theater to present them with a generous donation this past Saturday. The FCATs are a group of RHS students who, back in December, put on "To All a Good Night" an original show written and performed by them. The Times Theater is grateful for FCATs donation to the revitalization project and looks forward to seeing this group perform in the future.

Food bank coming to Mill Creek Church

Christmas is known as the season of giving but with the holiday now in the rear view mirror there are still families in need of assistance throughout the year. Chris Beall with Mill Creek Church says for this reason they are bringing a food market to help Fulton County residents.
 


Beall is hoping to see plenty of smiling faces at Mill Creek Church the afternoon of January 27 for the event that will help put food on the table for those less fortunate.
 

 

Reahard to run for House seat

Russell “Russ” Reahard announced he will again seek the Indiana House of Representatives District 18 seat, currently held by Dave Wolkins, according to a news release provided Friday.

 

The district includes Wabash County and parts of Kosciusko, Grant and Miami counties.

 

Born in Wabash, he received his bachelor’s degree from Manchester University and did graduate study at the University of Indianapolis and Ivy Tech.

 

The release states he contributes to the community through two Kiwanis Clubs, mission work teams, community choir, worship services and as president of North Manchester Fellowship of Churches.

 

To learn more about his campaign, like him on Facebook at “Reahard for Indiana House.”

Swim-A-Rama a success

The Rochester Royals held their annual swim-a-rama, which is one of the biggest fundraisers the organization has, on January 7. Shoda Beehler with the Royals says the event was a roaring success.
 


Beehler explains what the money from the fundraiser is going towards, saying they are looking ot give back to the high school and middle school programs.

 


The swimmers gather pledges to raise money per lap they swim in an hour. This year the high was 199 laps. 

 

Fulton County United Way striving for donation goal

A final push is being made by the Fulton County United Way to hit their goal of raising $100,000. Executive Director Jenny Moriarty says they are still hopeful to get another big business or two to jump on board.

 

 

Moriarty is already looking forward to February as well for the Valentine’s Day Fundraiser, which will give the community the opportunity to hear from multiple local artists.

 

 

Acument Global Technologies Closing

Acument Global Technologies doors are closing, the question now is when? Executive Director with FEDCO Terry Lee says the exact date is not set officially but it should be some time in the next year and a half.

 


Lee says obviously this is far from ideal for the community as nearly 100 people will now be out of work. He is hopeful that they can avoid a similar situation from 5 years ago where the building still stands vacant.
 

 

Caston School Board Meeting

A busy School Board Meeting called Wednesday night for the Caston School Corporation differed from their regularly scheduled meetings. Caston Superintendent Cindy Douglass explains.

 


Douglass says the organizational meeting was followed by the financial meeting for the School

Board to make sure the budget is in place and being followed accordingly.
 


The next Caston School Board meeting is scheduled for January 22.

 

Credit checks on the way for REMC members

Fulton County REMC members usually get their capital credit checks before Christmas, but this year that has not been the case. Member Service Manager TJ Garner says the checks will be in the mail at the end of this week.
 

 

Republicans file for Election

Eight members of the Republican Party crammed into the County Clerk’s Office Wednesday morning to officially file to run for election. Those running for office include Katherine Easterday (Treasurer), Phyl Olinger (County Council), Steven Fishburn (County Council), Lori Hurst (County Council), Mason Heyde (County Council), Richard Ranstead (County Commissioner), Steve Metzger (County Commissioner), and Jeri Good (County Coroner). The election will be May 5th. 

Fulton County Solid Waste District keeping county clean

The Fulton County Solid Waste District is doing their best to make sure that the county does their part in recycling. Executive Director Stacy Hart explains what the Solid Waste District is hoping to achieve.

 


If you are recycling make sure to separate out your items, while Hart loves seeing Fulton County residents doing their part in recycling there are items that are a no-no for the recycling bin.

 

 

Statewide Silver Alert declared

A Statewide Silver Alert has been declared.

The Anderson Police Department is investigating the disappearance of Amanda R Stabler, a 28 year old white female, 5 feet 9 inches tall, 190 pounds, blonde hair with green eyes, and last seen in a silver or white, 2011 – 2014 sedan.

Amanda is missing from Anderson, Indiana which is 43 miles northwest of Indianapolis and was last seen on Wednesday, January 8, 2020 at 4:14 AM. She is believed to be in extreme danger and may require medical assistance.

If you have any information on Amanda R Stabler, contact the Anderson Police Department at 765-648-6775 or 911.
This concludes this Silver Alert.

Fulton County getting new wheel loader

A meeting Monday morning for the Fulton County Commissioners started off with bids being opened for a wheel loader. Fulton County Commissioner Bryan Lewis explains the decision made at the meeting.


 

 

Fulton County Purdue Extension Office offering classes

Fulton County Extension Director with the Purdue Extension Office Mark Kepler looks at the warm weather we have been experiencing recently and worries that while we may enjoy it this weather might not be the best for the livestock.
 


Kepler is hopeful to see plenty of smiling faces in his winter classes coming up. The first one is tonight and will cover economics in terms of agriculture.

 

 

 

2020 Candidate Filing opens Wednesday, January 8

Candidates seeking public office this year may begin filing their declarations of candidacy for the 2020 Primary Election tomorrow, Wednesday, January 8. Candidates for federal or state office will file with the Secretary of State or Indiana Election Division. Local candidates will file with the county election board. Filing will remain open until 12:00pm local time on Friday, February 7, 2020.

 

A candidate seeking nomination by a major political party may file, as well as independent or minor party candidates and state convention delegates. Candidates for President or Governor may begin filing petitions of nomination with county voter registration offices for verification of petition signatures.

 

“Free elections sit at the foundation of our republic, and I congratulate those individuals who have made the decision to run for public office,” said Secretary Lawson. “I encourage all candidates to pay careful attention to the policies and deadlines set forth by the laws of our state, and to file the appropriate documents sooner rather than later to avoid unnecessary mistakes and ensure an easy and efficient process for all parties involved.”

 

Further information can be found at https://www.in.gov/sos/elections/2395.htm

Theft from Plymouth Walmart turns into multiple arrests

Plymouth Police Officers were dispatched to Walmart for a report of theft in progress. Officer arrived on scene and made contact with Matthew Lemarr and Tracy Napierkowski. If was discovered that Matthew had concealed merchandise stuffed inside his clothing. Tracy had given police a false name and had an active warrant through Pulaski County. Matthew and Tracy were transported to the Marshall County Jail for those crimes. While at the Jail it was discovered that Matthew and Tracy both had concealed illegal drugs in their bodies. Tracy later destroyed evidence while attempting to recover it. Matthew was charged with Theft and Trafficking. Tracy was charged with false informing, trafficking, and obstruction of justice. 

Eight new Indiana State Troopers join the Toll Road Post; includes graduates from Plymouth, Wawasee and Warsaw

 On December 19, 2019, thirty-seven new troopers graduated from the 79th Indiana State Police Recruit Academy after completing a journey of 25 weeks of intense training. The recruits completed over 1,100 hours of academic and hands-on training in criminal and traffic law, crash investigation, emergency vehicle operations, defensive tactics, firearms, and other classes necessary for modern policing.

 

Eight of the troopers were assigned to the Indiana State Police Toll Road Post and will now begin more than three months of field training working next to several different experienced field training officers. After successfully completing this phase the troopers will be issued their own police cars and begin solo patrol on the Indiana Toll Road.

 

Trooper Jordin Bilthuis graduated from Manteno High School in Manteno, IL before attending Kankakee Community College in Kankakee, IL. Trooper Bilthuis will patrol the Indiana Toll Road primarily in Lake and Porter Counties.

 

Trooper Lawrence Joyner graduated from Chicago Military Academy Bronzeville in Chicago, IL. He went on to study Criminal Justice at Kennedy-King College in Chicago, IL. Trooper Joyner will patrol the Indiana Toll Road primarily in Lake and Porter Counties.

 

Trooper Alvin Best Jr. is a graduate of Portage High School in Portage, IN. He studied Criminal Justice while attending Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, IL. Trooper Best will patrol the Indiana Toll Road primarily in Porter, LaPorte, and St. Joseph Counties.

 

Trooper Tyler Vermillion is a graduate of Plymouth High School in Plymouth, IN. After graduating from high school, Trooper Vermillion served for five years in the United States Marine Corps. Trooper Vermillion will patrol the Indiana Toll Road primarily in Porter, LaPorte, and St. Joseph Counties.

 

Trooper George Youpel is a graduate of St. Rita High School in Chicago, IL. He attended Trine University in Angola, IN and graduated with a double major in Criminal Justice and Psychology. Prior to joining the Indiana State Police he served with the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office for three years. Trooper Youpel will patrol the Indiana Toll Road primarily in LaGrange and Steuben Counties.

 

Trooper Michael Bumbaugh is a graduate of Wawasee High School in Syracuse, IN. After graduating from high school, Trooper Bumbaugh served for four years in the United States Marine Corps. Prior to joining the Indiana State Police Trooper Bumbaugh was a member of the Syracuse Police Department for six years. Trooper Bumbaugh will patrol the Indiana Toll Road primarily in LaGrange and Steuben Counties.

 

Trooper Zachary McKenzie graduated from Dexter High School in Dexter, MI. before studying Criminal Justice at Ferris State University in Big Rapids, MI. Trooper McKenzie will patrol the Indiana Toll Road primarily in LaGrange and Steuben Counties.

 

Trooper Brandon Johnson is a graduate of Warsaw High School in Warsaw, IN. After graduating from high school, Trooper Johnson joined the Army National Guard. Trooper Johnson will patrol the Indiana Toll Road primarily in LaGrange and Steuben Counties.

Most successful miracle tree to date

Miracle Tree was started years ago in Fulton County as a means to help local kids who are less fortunate come Christmas time. Chris Beall with Mill Creek Church says none of this would be possible without the remarkable volunteers that lend a hand.

 

 

Beall loves seeing how much this Miracle Tree has grown in recent memory. He remembers when it was just Rochester but is glad Tippecanoe Valley jumped on board as well, and says they would be happy to see more communities want to get involved.

 

 

Beall is looking forward to the event coming back next December and they will really start planning for it in September.

2019: Businesses plan 27,000+ new Hoosier jobs with record-high average wages; area companies highlighted

Today, Governor Eric J. Holcomb announced the end of a third consecutive, record-breaking year for economic development in Indiana, with the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) securing 296 commitments from companies to locate or grow in the state. Together, these businesses plan to invest more than $8.44 billion in their Indiana operations and create up to 27,137 new Hoosier jobs with average wages of $28.60/hour – marking the highest annual records for capital investment and average wages since the IEDC was established in 2005.  

“I’m excited to announce yet another record-breaking year for economic development in Indiana as we work every day to ensure that Hoosiers have the best place possible to live, work and play,” Gov. Holcomb said. "As a state, we have worked tirelessly to create a nationally ranked, pro-growth business climate, and the results have solidified Indiana's reputation as a global destination for business, creating high-quality career opportunities for Hoosiers in the process."

These 27,137 new positions are expected to offer average wages of $28.60/hour, or nearly $59,500 annually, which is above the U.S. average wage and 21% higher than the state’s average wage of $23.01/hour (BLS, 2018). Moreover, of the 296 commitments made, 216 have committed average wages at or above the county average wage, and 56 are between 80-99% of the county average wage. 

Businesses announcing the largest growth commitments, based on the number of new jobs or capital investment planned, in 2019 were:

Growth Trends: 

  • NEW TO INDIANA: The IEDC, in partnership with local communities, secured 80 commitments from businesses in 2019 to establish new operations in Indiana. Of these, 18 were new companies committing to locate startup operations in Indiana, and 62 were companies already established and headquartered elsewhere in the U.S. or around the world; together, they plan to invest $2.04 billion and create up to 9,141 new jobs in Indiana.

    Commitments include: Arizona Isotopes (Arizona-based, Miami County)Energizer Holdings Inc. (Missouri-based, Johnson County), Great Lakes Lamination (startup, Elkhart County), Grinds (California-based, Hamilton County), LifeNet Health (Virginia-based, Hendricks County), PerceptIn (California-based, Hamilton County), Sequel Wire and Cable Company (startup, Marshall County)Sims Bark Co. (Alabama-based, Jackson County), and Opus Packaging (Michigan-based, Boone County).
     
  • FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT: Indiana is home to more than 1,030 foreign-owned business establishments that together support 203,000 Hoosier jobs – a number that continues to grow. In 2019, 38 foreign-owned businesses headquartered in 17 countries and territories committed to locating or growing in Indiana. Together, these firms plan to invest $3.1 billion in Indiana and create up to 6,022 new jobs, accounting for 22% of the total new jobs committed in 2019.  

    Commitments include: BraunAbility (Sweden, Hamilton County), Cormo USA (Switzerland, Rush County), DOT America (Germany, Whitley County), Greenleaf Foods, SPC (Canada, Shelby County), Indiana Wheel Corporation (China, Marshall County)Ingram Micro Services (China, Hendricks County), Magna Powertrain (Canada, Delaware County), Marbach America (Germany, LaPorte County), Multimatic (Canada, Allen County), OSR Inc. (Japan, Bartholomew County), Saab (Sweden, Tippecanoe County), SDI LaFarga (Spain, Allen County), Sullair (Japan, LaPorte County), and Yamaha Marine Precision Propellers (Japan, Hancock County).
     
  • LIFE SCIENCES: In 2019, the IEDC secured 43 commitments (+60% from 2018) from life sciences companies to locate or expand in Indiana. Together, these businesses plan to invest more than $968 million (+89% from 2018) and create up to 3,631 new jobs (+94% from 2018) in Indiana.

    Commitments include: Abbott (Hamilton County), Catalent (Monroe County), Expert RN|MD (Marion County), Hill-Rom Services (Ripley County), LifeNet Health (Hendricks County), Mach Medical (Whitley County), Micropulse Inc. (Whitley County), Nexxt Spine (Hamilton County), and PharmaCord (Clark County).
     
  • MANUFACTURING: This year, 160 manufacturers committed to investing more than $5.3 billion to grow their operations here and create up to 14,433 new Hoosier jobs with average salaries above the state’s average wage. These job commitments, which account for 61% of the total 27,137 new jobs committed in 2019, represent growth plans across a number of manufacturing sub-sectors, such as automotive and RV, steel, food and beverage, hardwoods and machinery.  

    Commitments include: Allison Transmission (Marion County), Auto Truck Group (Allen County), Cummins Inc. (Bartholomew County), Common Collabs (Starke County), Creative Works (Morgan County), Franke Plating Works (Allen County), GCI Slingers (Boone County), LightUpToys.com (Clark County), Magna Powertrain (Delaware County), Poynter Sheet Metal (Johnson County), SDI LaFarga (Allen County), and SoChatti (Marion County).
     
  • TECHNOLOGY: In 2019, 44 tech and tech-enabled firms committed to growing in Indiana, planning to create up to 3,851 new jobs (accounting for nearly 15% of the total jobs committed) with average annual wages exceeding $76,000 for new positions. 

    Commitments include: ActiveCampaign (Marion County), Accutech Systems (Delaware County), Anvl (Hamilton County), LHP Engineering Solutions (Bartholomew County), MetaCX (Marion County), and Zotec Partners (Hamilton County).
     
  • SMALL BUSINESS: Along with these 27,137 committed jobs, the IEDC also works to support entrepreneurs and small businesses through the Indiana Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and Indiana Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC). In 2019, the Indiana SBDC assisted in 406 new business starts and in the creation of 4,360 new jobs. Additionally, the Indiana PTAC registered 312 new clients and helped secure more than $162 million in federal government contracts that allowed businesses to grow and create 433 new jobs for Hoosiers.

IEDC incentives offered for these 296 commitments are conditional, meaning a company must create new jobs or provide workforce training in order to be eligible to receive incentives, and are based on new payroll for Hoosiers in order to protect taxpayer money while simultaneously attracting high-wage jobs and new investment to the state. The IEDC offered an average incentive of $0.21/new payroll dollar committed in 2019. 
 
About IEDC
The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) leads the state of Indiana’s economic development efforts, helping businesses launch, grow and locate in the state. Governed by a 15-member board chaired by Governor Eric J. Holcomb, the IEDC manages many initiatives, including performance-based tax credits, workforce training grants, innovation and entrepreneurship resources, public infrastructure assistance, and talent attraction and retention efforts. For more information about the IEDC, visit www.iedc.in.gov

Mishawaka man facing child molestation charges

In Mishawaka, a man is accused of child molesting and sexual misconduct.

 

Police say Elliott Ewing molested a 14-year-old and a 15-year-old for almost a year, starting in 2018 and ending in June of last year, reports ABC 57 in South Bend.

 

He faces multiple charges, including rape, child molesting, and child exploitation.

Ewing is due in court later this month.

Arts Midwest awards grants to Knox

In association with the Indiana Arts Commission, Arts Midwest announced today the awarding of ten grants totaling $29,225 to Indiana communities as part of the Rural Indiana Performance Fund.

 

The Rural Indiana Performance Fund, a partnership between Arts Midwest and the Indiana Arts Commission, engages people in meaningful experiences with the fine arts of dance, music, theater or musical theater, and other performing arts forms throughout rural Indiana.

 

City of Knox Knox/Starke $3,000

The Magic Bus band was formed in 2009 by their founder Mark Harrington whose love for the Woodstock era music, and the colorful groups that performed during the mid-60’s, became his inspiration in bringing this band to life. Magic Bus will perform and host a meet and greet during the City of Knox's annual Fall Bash in Wythogan Park.

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