The Indiana State Police recently received a complaint from a resident advising of what appears to be an ongoing scam solicited via Facebook. This scam involves the offering of a “Child Safety Kit” by clicking on a link provided in the Facebook post.

The resident stated that the provided link to receive the “Child Safety Kit” asks the requestor to submit personal information, to include: name, address, and phone number, information which is then followed up by a phone call wherein the scammer requests to set up an in-home visit to further the transaction.

She reports having received two phone calls from two very persistent males requesting to come to her home and be allowed to load an App onto her phone as part of their “Child Safety Kit” service. She stated the callers were very persistent on setting up an appointment, and they falsely claimed they work directly with the Indiana State Police. She was never provided with name or a company name.

This scam has apparently been ongoing for quite some time, and was even reported on by the Louisville based WDRB news channel back in December 2019, wherein an Evansville, Indiana woman was victimized (follow the link below for their full reporting).

https://www.wdrb.com/news/indiana-woman-requests-child-safety-id-kit-via-facebook-gets-frightening-visit/article_0f898fbe-1dec-11ea-a5a8-8fba54f2fd1f.html

The Indiana State Police would remind all Hoosiers that scam artists are pervasive across the internet and all social media platforms.  Scammer’s methods and tactics are primarily intrusive to your personal and financial information, but as noted in this instance, they may often resort to invading your personal space as well.  Luckily this resident was on the alert and did not fall prey to these scammers tactics.

This complaint reported to the State Police is full of red flags, and luckily this local resident did not fall prey to these scammers tactics.  You can protect yourself by:

• ALWAYS consider any unsolicited internet/social media transaction with a “Buyer Beware”
• NEVER provided personal or financial information to an unknown source, whether it be on the internet, by email, or by phone.
• NEVER invite or allow a stranger into your home, especially an unsolicited sales person- thieves commonly use this as a way to case your home for future burglary.
• Don’t be INTIMIDATED by a scammer’s pervasiveness. Delete the internet conversation or just hang up the phone when something doesn’t feel right.
• If you feel you have been victimized by a scammer, suspicious or threatening activity should be reported to your local law enforcement immediately.

A teacher at Northfield Jr./Sr. High School was arrested by Wabash County police on Monday after police say he forcefully shoved his youngest daughter.

Kevin Kling, 41, of North Manchester is accused of intentionally touching a family member in a rude, insolent or angry manner in the presence of two children under 16 years old.

Court records say the daughter was doing dishes after school when Kling "grabbed her by her shoulders and pushed her into the counter", causing her head to whip back and hit the kitchen cabinets. Kling's other children saw what happened, and said he had been "drinking heavily." One of them said Kling was drunk when he picked them up from school.

Kling has been charged with Domestic Battery on a Person Less than 14 Years Old. He is in the Wabash County Jail on bond.

A Logansport woman who failed to report her mother's death was arrested on warrants at a Denver home.

Troopers from the Indiana State Police Peru Post received information that Jaclyn Beebout, 41, of Logansport, who was wanted on two separate arrest warrants, was staying at a home on 367 E. Harrison Street in Denver.  The warrants were issued from Cass County. One warrant was for revocation of bond for possession of methamphetamine and an additional warrant for failure to report human remains.

Just after 2:00 am Wednesday Troopers Andrew Baldwin, Trooper Chad Babbs, and a Miami County Sheriff’s deputy went to the Denver home to serve the warrants. Beebout was taken into custody without incident.

She was incarcerated in the Cass County Jail.

No one is sure just when Cynthia Newman died in Cass County, but her daughter was arrested in her death.

About three weeks ago, Jaclyn Beebout told investigators that her mother was alive at Thanksgiving, but she's not sure after that. But police in Logansport arrested Beebout after finding the 65-year-old's decaying body in a chair in her home. Investigators say the body had been there so long bones were starting to show, and it looked like some pets had gnawed at the body.

Beebout admits to not reporting her mother's death as she told police she didn't want to be alone. Beebout is now in jail and awaiting charges. 

Beginning on Saturday, Apr. 24, everyone in northern Indiana’s 219 and 574 telephone area codes is encouraged to start using 10 digits, rather than seven, to make local phone calls. (For example, callers should start dialing “219-555-5555” or “574-555-5555” instead of “555-5555.”) This will help ease into the upcoming transition to mandatory 10-digit dialing for local calls within the 219 and 574 area codes.

Local calls made with seven digits will still work until Oct. 24, 2021, to allow everyone ample time to adjust to the new dialing pattern and to make any required system changes before 10-digit dialing becomes mandatory for local calls.

The change to 10-digit dialing is necessary to accommodate the national “988” National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, as designated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). All telecommunications providers in the United States are required to implement the three-digit 9-8-8 dialing code for the hotline by July 16, 2022. Under the FCC order, 10-digit dialing must be in place before then for any area code with a “988” prefix.

Timeframe and Guidance for the 219/574 Area

Effective Apr. 24, 2021, you should start using 10 digits whenever you place a local call from the 219 or 574 area code (dialing the area code followed by the number’s remaining digits). If you forget and dial just seven digits (through Oct. 24, 2021), your call will still be completed.

Starting on Oct. 24, 2021, you must use 10-digit dialing for all local phone calls. After this date, if you do not use 10 digits, your call will not be completed and a recording will instruct you to hang up and dial again.

Beginning July 16, 2022, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline will be reachable by calling the three-digit 9-8-8 code. The lifeline can be reached before and after that date at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

The most important facts for residential consumers and businesses in these area codes to know are:

• Your telephone number, including current area code, will not change.
• You will need to dial area code + telephone number (a total of 10 digits) for all local calls in the 219 and 574 areas.
• You will continue to dial 1 + area code + telephone number (a total of 11 digits) for all long-distance calls.
• Calls that are local now will remain local.
• 10-digit dialing for local calls will not change the price of a call, your coverage area, or other rates and services.
• You can still dial three digits to reach 911 for emergency services.
• You can continue to dial three digits to dial 211 (social services), 411 (directory assistance), 711 (telecommunications relay service), or 811 (call to request utility locate before you dig).
• You should start including the area code together with your seven-digit local telephone numbers when providing numbers to others.
• You should make sure that all preprogrammed numbers for local calls are set to include the area code. Examples include life safety systems, medical monitoring services, PBXs, fax machines, Internet dial-up numbers, alarm and security systems, gates, speed dialers, mobile/wireless phone contact lists, call forwarding settings, voicemail services, and similar functions.
• You should check your website, stationery, advertising materials, personal and business checks, personal or pet ID tags and microchips, and other items to ensure that the phone number includes the area code.

Any safety and security equipment, including medical alert devices and alarm systems, must be programmed for mandatory 10-digit local dialing unless the calls are already directed to toll-free or long-distance telephone numbers. If you are not sure whether your equipment needs to be reprogrammed, contact your medical alert or security provider. All necessary reprogramming must be completed before Oct. 24, 2021. To avoid last-minute issues, consumers are strongly encouraged to address any needed changes as soon as possible after Apr. 24, 2021, when the six-month transition period begins.

Specific area codes in 35 states, including all four of Indiana’s neighboring states, are implementing 10-digit dialing to accommodate the 988 Lifeline.

Mandatory 10-digit dialing has been in place for several years in Indiana’s 317 and 812 area codes; it was implemented to accommodate the addition of new “overlay” area codes due to shrinking number supplies. 

Indiana continues to make progress in the fight against coronavirus. 39 counties are now in the blue on the state's color-coded map -- the lowest risk of COVID spread.

Nine of those have been blue for two straight weeks and are now free of any restrictions. The other 30 turned blue Wednesday and could be free of restrictions if they stay in the blue for another week.

Fulton, Marshall and Kosciusko have gone blue.  Wabash, Miami, Cass, Pulaski and Starke are in yellow.

Almost everyone else is in the yellow -- the second-best rating.

Just three counties remain in the orange. Zero counties are in the red.

No one was injured in a Rochester area house fire Tuesday afternoon.

The Rochester Fire Department says it responded to the house fire at 200 North and 200 West at about 4:30 pm.  No one was home at the time.  Two pets were lost and the home is listed as a total loss.

Rochester was joined at the scene by firemen from Kewanna and Aubbeenaubbee departments.  The Fulton County Sheriff’s Office and Lutheran EMS were also at the scene.

Fire crews were at the home until about 9:00 pm.

There’s no name yet available for the owner of the rental property.

The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce recognizes that our county’s success is dependent upon the hard work of the organizations, businesses, and individuals who give of themselves to make our community a better place. Please take a moment to make a nomination that recognizes this hard work.

Business of the Year

Business in the Fulton County area with proven growth and stability. Provides innovative products and services. Demonstrates economic support of the Fulton County area business community.

Emerging Business of the Year

Business established in the last 0-5 years in the Fulton County area. Demonstrates growing success in community. Exhibits commitment to good business practices, community relations, and employee relations.

Business Professional of the Year

Individual who demonstrates growing excellence, creativity, and initiative in their profession, is engaged in the community, and shows a strong commitment to good business practices. Serves as a role model for other professionals both personally and professionally. Possesses vision and passion to mentor and lead others.

Community Service Award Original Chamber Award

Prestigious award presented to an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the community. Winner sits as Grant Marshall of Community Parade.

Nominations can be submitted at fultoncountychamber.com/form/view/22288

through Thursday, March 11.  Nominees MUST be a member of the Fulton County Chamber (with exception of the Community Service Award).

Nominated business and individuals will be notified by the Chamber by Friday, March 19. Nominees will complete an application and return to the Chamber. Members will vote on award winners and winners will be announced at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting in April. 

The 500 Festival has chosen 33 women from Indiana be 2021 500 Festival Princesses.

They represent 16 Indiana colleges and universities as well as 21 cities and towns across the state. They were selected based on communication skills, academic performance, community involvement, commitment to service, and leadership.  

Among the 33 women chosen:

MaKenzie Quissell, Plymouth, a graduate of Plymouth High School and a junior at Indiana State University majoring in finance. 

The 2021 500 Festival Princesses were selected through a competitive process consisting of a written application and virtual interviews.

The Indiana Department of Transportation announced that $100.8 million in federal transportation funding is being awarded to 54 cities, towns, and counties in rural portions of Indiana to invest in local road and bridge improvements as well as sidewalk and trail projects.

Combined with local funds, approximately $124.9 million is being invested in infrastructure in communities receiving funds.

Types of projects receiving funds include 32 bridge rehabilitation/replacement projects; 11 resurfacing/reconstruction projects; 6 Transportation Alternative Program (TAP) projects that include work such as sidewalks, ADA ramps, and trails; and 5 traffic safety projects.

Governor Eric J. Holcomb is directing flags across the state to be flown at half-staff in memory of the more than 500,000 Americans who have died from COVID-19.

Per the President’s proclamation, flags should be flown at half-staff from now until sunset Friday, February 26.

Gov. Holcomb also asks businesses and residents to lower their flags to half-staff.

Most people are anxious to have the week's warming temperatures put a dent into the piles of snow.  Still, that can cause problems, as well.

Rochester Mayor Ted Denton says they are trying to move some of it before it becomes more than just a nuisance.

The mayor says the added problem is that snow runoff is going to build up before the lake is ready to help absorb it.

Temperatures this week expected to stay in the 40's.  A rise into the 50's is in the forecast for the weekend.  Sunshine accompanies the warm-up with rain making its way into the forecast on Monday.

The Marshall County Neighborhood Center has reopened their 'Clothing Closet' this week at 402 West Garro St in Plymouth.

Hours will be Tuesday's and Thurday's from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

The nonprofit organization provides clothing and household supplies, free of charge, to those in need. Clients are asked to wear a mask at all times and only two people will be allowed in the shop at a time. 

You can call 574-936-3388, for more information. 

If you shop at Kroger, your personal information may have been exposed. Kroger is sending letters to customers, explaining that a third party vendor was hacked. That means customer and employee information could have been leaked.

Kroger says at least one percent of customers could have been exposed, but that could be a lot of people.

The company says people who used money services or their pharmacy are most likely to have been exposed.

Senator Mike Braun met with local business leaders at the Rochester Learning Center February 18, for a roundtable discussion about how the COVID19 Pandemic has effected businesses in Fulton County. 

Pike Lumber Co Production Manager Chris Herrell, addressed concerns about the 'Growing Climate Solution Act,' recently introduced by Senator Braun. The bill proposes providing federal support to reduce GHG emissions from agriculture and forestry sectors through carbon markets. Herrell wondered how it would affect the licensed foresters. 

Senator Braun acknowledged Brad Hinkle, President of Rochester Metal Products Corporation, with his concerns about tariffs and the cost squeeze they have put on the company recently. 

Local business owner Jim Straeter expressed concerns about upcoming stimulus checks and who they would be helping. 

Senator Braun addressed the importance of staying safe during the pandemic but also keeping the economy up and running as we continue life in the 'new normal.' 

Lawmakers in the Indiana House Utilities, Energy and Telecommunications Committee passed a bill that establishes statewide baseline regulations for solar and wind energy production systems.

District 23 State Representative Ethan Manning.

House Bill 1381 creates “default” standards limiting where solar and wind systems can be installed and under what conditions, as well as limits on shadow flicker, sound limits, landscape buffers and other nuisance factors that have led to the energy sources being banned or heavily regulated in more than a third of the state’s counties.

The bill takes away the power of local governments to establish regulations that are more restrictive than the proposed “default” standards.

Rep. Ed Soliday, the bill’s author, said the bill was not an environmental statement, but necessary to meet the state’s demand for renewable energy from sources here in Indiana.

Manning says he’s heard from both sides unhappy with the bill.  But representatives from companies planning renewable energy projects in the state said they support the bill, which would allow the state to take a more active role in the permitting process for renewables.

Manning said that so many people in his district were against the bill that he voted no when it was passed out of committee.

Soliday said the state’s energy grid is not prepared to withstand increased renewable energy production.

The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce recognizes that our county’s success is dependent upon the hard work of the organizations, businesses, and individuals who give of themselves to make our community a better place. Please take a moment to make a nomination that recognizes this hard work.

Business of the Year

Business in the Fulton County area with proven growth and stability. Provides innovative products and services. Demonstrates economic support of the Fulton County area business community.

Emerging Business of the Year

Business established in the last 0-5 years in the Fulton County area. Demonstrates growing success in community. Exhibits commitment to good business practices, community relations, and employee relations.

Business Professional of the Year

Individual who demonstrates growing excellence, creativity, and initiative in their profession, is engaged in the community, and shows a strong commitment to good business practices. Serves as a role model for other professionals both personally and professionally. Possesses vision and passion to mentor and lead others.

Community Service Award Original Chamber Award

Prestigious award presented to an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the community. Winner sits as Grant Marshall of Community Parade.

Nominations can be submitted at fultoncountychamber.com/form/view/22288

through Thursday, March 11.  Nominees MUST be a member of the Fulton County Chamber (with exception of the Community Service Award).

Nominated business and individuals will be notified by the Chamber by Friday, March 19. Nominees will complete an application and return to the Chamber. Members will vote on award winners and winners will be announced at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting in April. 

We aren't out of the woods yet, but Indiana's counties are in better shape when it comes to the pandemic.

Indiana now has no counties in the red on the coronavirus map. Eleven counties are now in blue.  That's the best rating on the state's color coded map, meaning the lowest risk of COVID spread.

Fulton and all surrounding counties are in yellow except for Cass which is Orange. 

For Starke County, that’s actually a level down.  Starke was the lone blue county last week.

The Indiana Department of Transportation is set to begin a study to improve the US 30 corridor from the Indiana/Ohio State Line to Valparaiso.

A release on Tuesday from the US 30 Coalition states that the group “applauds the decision to initiate a designed solution to improve this critical roadway through our communities.”

In this study, known as a Planning and Environment Linkages study, INDOT will examine various options to improve the safety, traffic flow, freight movement and economic development potential of the corridor, including the construction of a freeway.

With the onset of the study, INDOT agreed to institute a moratorium on j-turns on the US 30 corridor except for the one currently under contract at CR 500E in Whitley County. Any projects that are currently underway on US 30 will not detract from the ultimate purpose of the study.  

The Fulton County United Way has announced its goal reached and passed during the recently concluded fundraising season.

Jenny Moriarty, Director of the Fulton County United Way.

Now, efforts and meetings to allocate the money.

Fulton County Commissioners announced Monday afternoon that they would upgrade the county travel map from RED to ORANGE by 6:00 pm .  Miami County upgraded to ORANGE BY 5:00 pm.

Marshall, Starke, and Pulaski are also in ORANGE status opening Wednesday.         

Kosciusko, Wabash and Cass are shown in YELLOW.

Fulton County Commissioners have declared an emergency as crews continue to battle area roads in the wake of the snow storm.

RAZOR Medical Instruments, a medical instrument company, has announced plans to relocate its headquarters from New Hampshire to Warsaw, Indiana.

RAZOR expects to create up to 63 new jobs at its new Warsaw headquarters over the next three years.

"Indiana's life sciences industry is strong and growing, ranking second in the U.S. for critical exports like pharmaceuticals, medical devices and orthopedics," said Indiana Secretary of Commerce Jim Schellinger. "RAZOR's commitment to move its headquarters and grow in our state shows the confidence the company has in our business-friendly environment and talent pipeline. We're thrilled to welcome RAZOR to Indiana and grateful for the new career opportunities for Hoosiers."

RAZOR plans to invest more than $3.4 million to establish its new Warsaw headquarters and grow its team. The company has leased office space at the OrthoWorx/AcceLINX offices at 102 S. Buffalo St. in Warsaw and is looking at options for the long-term. 

“We appreciate the assistance of all the organizations that have helped RAZOR relocate to the orthopedic capital of the world,” said Bruce Khalili, president of RAZOR. “The concentration of resources in the medical device field in northeastern Indiana is impressive. Being in Warsaw is a strategic move for RAZOR as it permits us to leverage the availability of technical talent and manufacturing expertise in the field of medical devices. RAZOR’s unique culture, in partnership with our local Universities, AcceLINX, Orthworx, KEDCO and the city of Warsaw, will provide an environment conducive to attract, train and keep young talent in Indiana."

The company, which has 9 employees, has already started recruitment and will be hiring for a variety of positions beginning as early as spring 2021. Positions will be posted online as they become available. 

Founded in 2016 by Khalili, the company's product line includes single-use instruments used in joint replacement procedures and will reduce inefficiencies associated with reusable instruments at the OEM and hospital level. The use of single-use instruments facilitates the migration of total joint procedures from the hospital setting to ambulatory care centers.

The IEDC offered Razor Medical Instruments Inc. up to $1 million in conditional tax credits and training grants based on the company’s job creation plans. These tax credits are performance-based, meaning the company is eligible to claim incentives once Hoosiers are hired. The city of Warsaw will consider additional incentives with the support of the Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation (KEDCO).

Area legislators announced that Senate Concurrent Resolution 8, which urges the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) to rename a section of State Road 218 in Miami County as "The Honorable Richard A. Maughmer Highway," passed out of the Indiana Senate.

Born Dec. 2, 1953, Richard A. Maughmer graduated from Lewis Cass High School in 1972. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served 37 years, retiring as a colonel in 2009. He began practicing law in Logansport after graduating from law school in 1979. In 1983, he started working part-time in the Cass County Prosecutor's Office and was appointed Cass County Prosecutor in 1986. In 2001, Maughmer was appointed to serve as Superior Court 2 Judge for Cass County in 2001, where he served until his death. He is survived by his wife Vicki and three daughters Shae, Valerie and Kathlene.

"Judge Maughmer was a pillar of our community, and his tragic passing is still felt today," State Sen. Stacey Donato (R-Logansport) said. "My hope is that renaming this roadway will serve as a daily reminder of a man who gave so much to our community."

"Judge Maughmer lived his life for others and was a consummate public servant," State Sen. Jim Buck (R-Kokomo) said. "From his time in the U.S. Air Force and his years serving in Cass County's courtrooms, Judge Maughmer was always active in improving the community. Although his passing was tragic, he will always be remembered for his contributions to our state, and renaming this portion of State Route 218 as 'The Honorable Richard A. Maughmer Highway' will help keep his memory alive."

"This is just a small token of appreciation our community can offer to Judge Maughmer for his years of service to Cass County," said State Rep. Ethan Manning (R-Denver). "While we are saddened he is no longer with us, his legacy as a dedicated public servant will always live on."

"State Route 218 is a popular and well-known road in our area, and dedicating a portion of this roadway to Judge Maughmer and his commitment to making our community a better place is a great way to honor his legacy," said State Rep. Heath VanNatter (R-Kokomo).

SCR 8 urges INDOT to rename the section of State Road 218 from County Road 500 E. in Cass County to US 31 in Miami County after Judge Maughmer.

SCR 8 will now move to the House of Representatives for further consideration. To learn more about SCR 8, click here. 

Four people were arrested on drug and firearm charges following a traffic stop on U.S 31 near State Road 25 Friday in Fulton County.

About 11:45 am, a traffic stop by Indiana State Police Trooper Jesse Reason led to the arrests of Anthony Brockington, 26, Jalen Davis, 26, Diarra Wright, 23, Morgan McClintock, 23.  All four are from Anderson.

Reason initiated a traffic stop on a Nissan Altima for an unsafe lane movement. The Nissan was driven by Brockington. While Reason was speaking to Brockington, he allegedly smelled an odor of marijuana emitting from the vehicle. The Indiana State Police report also states that Reason noticed indicators that criminal activity might be afoot. No other mention of what those were is available in the release.

During a subsequent search, officers found marijuana and two handguns. One of the handguns was reported stolen from Anderson. Further investigation revealed that Brockington was driving without a valid operator’s license.

Brockington and McClintock were arrested for possession of marijuana.

Wright faces criminal charges for carrying a handgun without a license, possession of marijuana, and theft of a firearm.  

Davis faces charges for possession of marijuana, theft of a firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon and carrying a handgun without a license.  

All four were incarcerated in the Fulton County Jail.

Two women, one from rural Rochester, were injured when their vehicle was rear-ended by a semi-tractor.

Just before 11:00 am Thursday, officers from the Indiana State Police and the Miami County Sheriff’s Office responded to a two-vehicle crash on U.S. 31 at Business U.S. 31, in which two women were injured.

Indiana State Police report that the preliminary crash investigation revealed that Trina Fay Carlson, 26, of Stanwood, MIchigan, was driving a 2016 Freightliner semi-tractor, pulling a box trailer, southbound on U.S. 31, approaching a red stop light at Business U.S. 31. The semi-tractor did not stop and rear-ended a 2007 Ford F-150 pickup truck, which was stopped for the red light. The pickup truck was driven by Susan Konkle, 62, of rural Rochester.

Konkle and Renee Stouder, 61, of Bourbon,  a passenger in the Ford, were flown by medical helicopters to a Ft. Wayne hospital. Their injuries are unknown. Carlson was not injured.

At this time neither the consumption of alcoholic beverages nor narcotics is suspected as having contributed to this crash.

ISP was assisted at the crash scene by Master Trooper Aaron Schaal, Master Trooper Bart Stouffer, Senior Trooper Jeremy Perez, Trooper Jon Cole, Trooper Jesse Reason, ISP Lieutenant T.J. Zeiser, Samaritan Medical Helicopter, Lutheran Medical Helicopter, and the Peru Fire Department.

Indiana isn't expanding COVID vaccine eligibility yet, but health officials have announced who's next in line.

The health department had already said people 60 and up will be next -- the current cutoff is 65, except for health care workers, first responders and nursing home residents.  Chief medical officer Lindsay Weaver says the next expansion after that will cover two groups: people 50 and up, and people younger than that with one of six specific conditions putting them at risk.

For now, 60-year-olds are still waiting their turn, and Health Commissioners Dr. Kris Box says it'll be at least another week. She says the state is watching its inventory of vaccine and the expected weekly shipment of 100-thousand doses to make sure nearly a half-million Hoosiers who have already received their first dose will have their second available.

Weaver says while other ailments, including coronary artery disease and C-O-P-D, are also risk factors, lowering the age threshold to 50 will reach four out of five of those patients. Governor Holcomb says it'll also encompass 98-percent of Indiana's deaths.

Box says the Johnson and Johnson vaccine awaiting F-D-A approval has the potential to be the "workhorse" of the COVID fight. Not only would a third vaccine increase the supply, but the Johnson & Johnson vaccine requires one dose instead of two. Box says that'll help with harder-to-reach populations for whom getting them in for a second appointment may be challenging.

At 85-percent, the new vaccine is less effective than the 95-percent rate of the already-approved Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, but Weaver says that's still an excellent performance.

Patients won't be able to choose which vaccine they receive.

Box says Indiana has the capacity to deliver four times the vaccinations it's administering now, once there are doses available to give.

Officers from the Indiana State Police, the Logansport Police Department, and the Cass County Sheriff’s Department responded to a domestic situation Wednesday morning in which gunshots were fired towards people inside a home on 3315 Pottawatomie Road.

During the investigation, evidence revealed the suspected shooter Demacio Hernandez Martinez, 44, 3315 Pottawatomie Road, Logansport,  fled prior to officers arriving. No one was injured during this incident.

Throughout the day, there were multiple law enforcement officers utilizing various police resources, to include drones and police dogs, to search for Martinez. So far, he has not been located. All of the involved police agencies have resumed normal operations.

Detectives from the Indiana State Police are continuing the investigation. Earlier today, they applied for and were granted a Cass Circuit Court arrest warrant for Martinez. The warrant alleges criminal charges for intimidation, criminal recklessness, and battery on a person under 14 years of age.

Martinez is a Hispanic male, 5’10” tall and weighs approximately 200 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes and was last seen wearing dark clothing. Martinez purportedly uses the alias of “George” in the local community. If anyone sees Martinez, they are asked to call 911 and give a location. He is considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached.

In an abundance of caution, schools in Logansport were placed on lock down.  Additional police officers were assigned to local schools, to augment school resource officers, during dismissal and loading of the busses.

Assisting the Indiana State Police were the Cass County Sheriff's Department, the White County Sheriff's Department, the Fulton County Sheriff's Department, the Logansport Police Department, the Logansport Fire Department,  Logansport EMS, and Cass County EMA. 

On the COVID map most of Indiana's counties are still in the orange and yellow, but Dr. Kristina Box, state health commissioner, said on Wednesday that Switzerland County is now the only county in Indiana that's red.

She said Indiana even has a county in blue now, Starke County.

One month ago, 73 of Indiana's 92 counties were in the red.

As wintry conditions continue to make some daily tasks difficult the Fulton County Solid Waste District is offering some assistance with recycling.

Executive Director Stacey Hart says the icy, slick conditions can be a hassle for some and a danger for others this season.  That’s why they want residents to know they can come right to the center for recycling.

Hart notes that residents with a lot of cardboard are encouraged to come to the center during business hours.  She says the trend toward shopping online is actually increasing the amount of cardboard being recycled.

She also asks that is you are bringing cardboard, break it down.  Putting in large boxes as they are takes up a great deal of space.

Law enforcement in the Logansport area is searching for a suspect following a domestic situation.

About 9:00 Wednesday morning officers from the Indiana State Police, the Logansport Police Department, and the Cass County Sheriff’s Department responded to a domestic situation which possibly involved a hostage and a barricaded man at a home on 3315 Pottawatomie Road.

During the investigation, evidence indicates the suspect fled the home and is possibly traveling on foot. As of this report, his identification has not been verified but he is believed to be a Hispanic male. He is approximately 40 years of age, 5’10” approximately 200 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes, and last seen wearing dark clothing. He is considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached. If the public sees a man matching the description, they are asked to call 911 and give a location.

There are currently multiple law enforcement officers searching for the suspect. In an abundance of caution schools in Logansport have been placed on lock down.

The public should expect a large law enforcement presence on Pottawattamie Road and should avoid the area if possible.

Walmart and Sam’s Club pharmacies will begin administering COVID-19 vaccines through the U.S. Federal Retail Pharmacy Program on Feb. 12.

More than 1,000 Walmart and Sam’s Club pharmacies in 22 states are receiving federal vaccine allocations this week, with an emphasis on locations that reach customers in underserved communities with limited access to health care. In addition to the 22 states, Walmart and Sam’s Club is also currently administering vaccinations under the state allocation in 11 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. While initial vaccine supply is limited, Walmart and Sam’s Club pharmacists and technicians stand ready to help expand vaccine access across the country.

With 150 million customers and members passing through our doors each week, Walmart and Sam’s Club pharmacists can safely and easily reach customers where they’re already shopping for household and health care essentials. The company worked with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and states taking into account the population density, customer demographics, infection rates and availability of local health care resources among other factors to identify many of the participating locations.

The company also looked at pharmacies located in Medically Underserved Areas, as designated by the Health Resources and Services Administration. 

“Ninety percent of the country lives within 10 miles of a Walmart. We’re at the heart of many rural and underserved communities, and we are committed to providing access to vaccines as groups become eligible,” Dr. Cheryl Pegus, Executive Vice President, Health & Wellness, said. “Vaccinations to achieve widespread immunity are important for re-opening across the country. We’re proud to work together with the federal government, states, communities, customers and associates to reach that goal.”

Walmart and Sam’s Club are partnering with CDC and states to move as quickly as possible to help administer vaccines to eligible populations in participating states, including Indiana.

Vaccine supply and eligibility will vary based on allocation as well as state and local guidelines. The number of vaccinations will be limited and is planned to continue to increase each week. Eligible customers can schedule a vaccine appointment directly via the Walmart and Sam’s Club websites once appointments are available, making it convenient to get vaccinated while allocation lasts. A membership is not required to get a vaccination at Sam’s Club. In addition to appointments, the scheduler will provide a digital reminder when it is time to return for the second vaccine, which is why customers are asked to create a profile, helping to ensure customers receive the second dose of the vaccine.

Walmart recognizes there are people who may have difficulty accessing in-store clinics, so it will be partnering with other providers and organizations to expand access to offsite vaccination clinics. The company will share details of these new vaccine options as they become available.

The Pulaski County Council has approved finalizing over a million dollars in additional appropriations for the county.

Councilman Brian Young spoke on the approval from Monday night's joint meeting between the Pulaski County Commissioners and Council at the Pulaski County Highway Department Garage. 

Young says the meeting was a positive one and that the county is going in the right direction. 

Young also addressed his concern with the health department not giving the council monthly updates. 

Woodlawn Hospital has announced the following regarding visitors at the facility.

INPATIENT VISITOR RESTRICTIONS

Only one (1) visitor PER DAY.  If a visitor leaves, he / she will not be allowed back into building until the ext 24 hour period begins.

No one under 18 years of age.

No one with respiratory symptoms or temperature -- which will be checked at the door prior to entering the facility.

Everyone must enter through the Emergency / Patient Access doorway.

The Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) announced the estimated funds that each school district across the state will receive as part of the second round of federal stimulus dollars (CARES 2.0/ CRRSA). Together, these school allocations for Indiana public and non-public schools total more than $881 million.

                                                            April allocation              Planning allocation

Rochester Community Sch Corp    $ 256,029.88                 $ 1,433,793.82

Caston School Corporation             $ 122,484.30                 $ 388,826.65

Tippecanoe Valley School Corp      $ 219,411.55                 $ 1,071,809.59

Argos Community Schools              $ 111,288.84                 $ 466,554.32

“This CARES 2.0 federal funding offers the opportunity to focus on addressing the educational needs exacerbated by the pandemic,” said Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education. “As we all continue to navigate these challenges, it will be critical to better understand and take actions to mitigate the learning loss resulting from COVID-19, as well as capitalize on any opportunities for growth that have come to light as a result of this challenge.”

These funds include:

• Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER)
  Planning allocations for Indiana’s public schools – the largest part of ESSER funding – total $799.37 million. These schools will submit their allowable expenses incurred from March 13, 2020, through September 30, 2023, and then will be eligible for reimbursement. More information on the use of these funds – designed to tackle learning loss and achieve operational efficiencies – is available here.
• Emergency Assistance to Non-Public Schools (EANS)
  Non-public schools’ planning allocations total $81.66 million, which can be used to fund services and support for these schools. These funds prioritize schools that enroll low-income students and are most impacted by the pandemic. More information on allowable activities and uses is available here.

These planning allocations are preliminary and will be finalized in the coming months based on the Title I formula.

The second federal stimulus package (CARES 2.0/ CRRSA) also includes more than $115 million in discretionary funding available to the state, as well as $327.78 million available for higher education.

Following the leads from several drug-tipsprovided by concerned citizens in the area of North Webster, law enforcement officers assigned to the Kosciusko County Narcotics Enforcement Team, “NET43”, performed multiple drug interdiction encounters on February 3. NET43 investigators continued investigations the following days, concluding with a search warrant for illegal drugs and items associated with illegal drug sales.

During the interaction with various suspects and the execution of a search warrant NET43 investigators intercepted approximately 241 grams of crystal methamphetamine, a loaded .40 calibersemi-automatic handgun, a Smith and Wesson 9 mm, $5,991 in US Currency, morphine tablets, Xanax, marijuana, and paraphernalia which is used for illegal drug ingestion and dealing illegal drugs/narcotics.

These drug investigations resulted inthe arrest of four individuals, one who was also wanted on arrest warrants from Elkhart County. 

The subjects arrested were:

Corey Michael Dains, Mishawaka, Indiana for the offenses of Dealing/Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of a Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon, Possession of marijuana, and Possession of Paraphernalia

Mitchell Patrick Hall, Wolcottville, Indiana, for the offenses of Possession of Methamphetamine and Driving While Suspended

Anthony Hoover, North Webster, Indiana for the offenses of Dealing of Methamphetamine over 10g, Possession of Methamphetamine over 10g, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Maintaining a Common Nuisance

Cherrie Fox, North Webster, Indiana for the offenses of Dealing of Methamphetamine over 10g, Possession of Methamphetamine over 10g, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, and Maintaining a Common Nuisance

The investigators of NET43 would like to remind the citizens of Kosciusko County and surrounding areas they can provide drug tip information by emailing NET43@kcgov.com or calling the NET43 tip line at 574-372-2494.

A two-vehicle crash on U.S. 31 injured five people.

Just after 6:00 pm, officers from the Indiana State Police, the Rochester Police Department, and the Fulton County Sheriff’s Department responded to a two-vehicle crash on U.S 31 at Sweetgum Road.

The preliminary crash investigation revealed that John Hogan, 43, rural Macy, was driving a 2012 Toyota Corolla southwest on Sweetgum Road approaching a stop sign at the intersection of U.S. 31. The Corolla failed to yield to traffic on U.S 31 and pulled into the path of a northbound 2019 Nissan Sentra. The Nissan, driven by Angela Collins, 49, of Indianapolis, struck the Corolla in the drivers’ side.

Collins and Hogan were both flown from the crash scene, via medical helicopters, to a Ft Wayne hospital. There were three passengers in the Nissan, all children. Two boys, ages five and eight, and a female child whose age has yet to be determined. All three of the children were also flown from the crash scene to a Ft Wayne hospital. The status of the injured is unknown as of this report.

The crash is still under investigation. At this time neither the use of alcohol nor narcotics is suspected as having contributed to the crash.

Indiana State Police were assisted at the crash scene by the Fulton County Sheriff’s Department, the Rochester Fire Department, Lutheran EMS, Lutheran Medical Helicopter, Samaritan Medical Helicopter, and the Rochester Police Department. 

Indiana State Police were assisted by a K9 to arrest a fleeing driver.

Late Wednesday evening a suspected impaired driver fled from a trooper, crashed into a parked car, fled on foot, broke into a garage, and was apprehended by a K9 and arrested on numerous charges.

Just after 8:00 p.m. Trooper Ryan McNamara was travelling west on CR 900 North behind a red 2007 Pontiac. McNamara observed possible signs of impairment as he followed behind the Pontiac. After turning north onto Old State Road 15 McNamara observed the Pontiac cross the center line and go into the southbound lanes several times. McNamara decided to stop the Pontiac and turned the red and blue emergency lights on his marked Indiana State Police car near the intersection of Old State Road 15 and Mock Road. McNamara reports that when he turned on his emergency lights the driver of the Pontiac refused to stop and fled north on Old State Road 15 at a high rate of speed.

The driver continued to flee and entered Milford despite McNamara behind with lights and siren on. At the intersection of Main Street and Section Street the Pontiac failed to make the turn and crashed into a parked Ford Explorer. The driver of the Pontiac then got out of his car and fled on foot, running west through residential yards.

Officers from several surrounding police departments responded to help locate the driver. After a methodical search and K9 tracks using an Indiana State Police K9 and Warsaw Police Department K9, the driver was eventually found hiding in a garage he is alleged to have broken into in the 200 block of South Higbee Street. The driver was ultimately apprehended by the K9 with the Warsaw Police Department and found to be wearing different clothing that he found in the garage and put on over his own clothing.

The driver, James Barr, 36 of Columbia City, is alleged to have spit in the face of the transporting officer before being transported to Kosciusko Community Hospital to be medically cleared for the K9 bite.  Once medically cleared, Barr was transported to the Kosciusko County Jail.

Troopers located approximately 9 grams of suspected methamphetamine, 111 grams of suspected synthetic marijuana, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia in the Pontiac.

Barr was found to have two active warrants out of Kosciusko County for a total of 12 charges and an active warrant out of Dekalb County for two charges and faces numerous new preliminary charges that include Possession of Methamphetamine, Residential Entry, Resisting Law Enforcement, Battery, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana, Operating With a Controlled Substance in the Body, and Theft.

The Indiana State Police was assisted by the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office, Warsaw Police Department, Syracuse Police Department, Milford Police Department, and Winona Lake Police Department.

  There's another bill to limit some of the state's anti-COVID restrictions -- but this one has the state health department's support.

Indiana stopped all nursing home visitation for three months at the start of the pandemic, and there are still limits in counties with high positivity rates. That's caused some residents to decline physically and mentally. Indiana has a program to name one "essential caregiver" who can visit no matter what. But the program is optional, and Granger Senator Linda Rogers (R) says many nursing homes have continued a full ban on visitors for fear of running afoul of the state or federal government, or to avoid risking a lawsuit if someone gets sick.

The Senate Health Committee unanimously approved Rogers' bill requiring nursing homes to participate in the essential caregiver program. The bill also requires facilities to allow family members to visit if residents are showing signs of emotional distress or struggling to adapt to the new surroundings.

Vickie Ayres of Indianapolis says she watched her mother decline physically and mentally after a positive COVID test landed her in isolation for three weeks. Ayres says once she was able to visit again, her mother improved for a few days, only to have the facility shut down visitation again after a staff member tested positive. At that point, she says she pulled her mother out of the facility to live with her.

Rogers says when she was able to visit her own 99-year-old mother for the first time in months, her mother told her she'd been "lost" and thought her family had been able to find her.

Ayres and Rogers say the state-ordered lockdown was an appropriate precaution at the time, and Ayres says she's not calling on nursing homes to "fling open the doors." But she notes doctors, nurses and therapists travel from one facility to another. As long as family members get tested, mask up, and wash their hands, she argues, they're no more of a health risk than those staffers.

Rogers' bill would shield nursing homes from lawsuits over coronavirus infections unless they show "gross negligence or willful misconduct," the same language as a House-passed bill granting similar protection to all businesses, nonprofits, schools, and government offices.

The Senate will vote on requiring facilities to participate.

A mix of rain and snow along with frigid temperatures will be moving through Indiana for at least the next few days.

The National Weather Service in Indianapolis says a winter weather system will arrive Thursday afternoon.

“Precipitation should start as rainfall. There might be a little mix of precipitation in the early parts. We might see a few scattered snow showers overnight after the cold front passes through, but we’re not looking at any kind of accumulations,” said Aaron Updike, meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Indianapolis. “We’re also expecting pretty windy conditions Thursday. They could gust as high as 40 mph at times.”

Updike projects that Indiana will have the coldest temperatures of the season so far.

“That’s especially the case for Sunday. Sunday’s high temperatures may only reach the teens. Our wind chill values will be running 5-10 degrees below the actual values,” said Updike.

That means it will likely feel as if it is below zero at times even if the temperature is above zero.

“We’re tracking another snow system coming in Saturday night, maybe in the one to two-inch range,” said Updike. “It should be that light, fluffy snow. It won’t be like the snow from last weekend when it was really dense and heavy. We are tracking another system early next week. It’s hard to say how much we’ll get this far out, but it does look like the potential for much more significant snow values.”

Updike expects the cold weather to continue for the next few weeks. 

Alex and Enrique Martinez are cousins, friends and now business owners of the upcoming restaurant Primos Bar & Grill located at 721 Main Street.

The two bachelors, originally from Elkhart, saw the former Poblanos building as an opportunity and jumped on it. Enrique said things just fell into place after that. 

Despite the name 'Primos' meaning cousins in Spanish, Enrique says they're not going to serve Mexican food as the main focus. 

Alex said the atmosphere is also going to be much different.  

The two young entrepreneurs say they both were inspired by their own father's businesses and die-hard work ethic. 

Primos Bar & Grill will be open to all ages for family dining as well. 

Renovations of the building have started this week and the cousins plan to open around late March or early April. 

If you bought a ticket for the Jan. 30 Daily 3 drawing, the Hoosier Lottery is asking you to hold onto your ticket.

A technical issue occurred during the Daily 3 drawing on Jan. 30, according to the Hoosier Lottery. 

Anyone who purchased a ticket for the drawing is asked to hold onto their ticket.

The announced numbers were 9-0-2 with Superball 1. 

A second drawing will be completed. The Hoosier Lottery will honor both sets of numbers for prize payment.

Players who believe they may have purchased a winning ticket based on the secondary numbers drawn but discarded the ticket after viewing the numbers initially announced, or who redeemed a winning ticket and believe they may have been eligible for a higher prize level, may download and submit a claim form/affidavit for review by the Hoosier Lottery. Claims must be received by the Hoosier Lottery by July 29, 2021.

No one is sure just when Cynthia Newman died in Cass County, but her daughter has been arrested in her death.

Jaclyn Beebout says her mother was alive at Thanksgiving, but she's not sure after that. But police in Logansport arrested Beebout after finding the 65-year-old's decaying body in a chair in her home. Investigators say the body had been there so long bones were starting to show, and it looked like some pets had gnawed at the body.

Beebout admits to not reporting her mother's death as she told police she didn't want to be alone. Beebout is now in jail and awaiting charges. 

Have you received your coronavirus vaccine? The Better Business Bureau is reminding you of one thing not to do after you get your shot.

Many people are sharing photos of their vaccine card on social media. The BBB says you shouldn't do that.

"Unfortunately, your card has your full name and birthday on it, as well as information about where you got your vaccine," the BBB said on its website. "If your social media privacy settings aren’t set high, you may be giving valuable information away for anyone to use."

They say if you want to share the news of you getting your COVID shot, share a photo of your vaccine sticker or use a "I Got My Vaccine" profile frame instead.

From a joke in July to fate, there are now new owners of the former Siders Blueberry Farm.  Drew and Stephanie McCulley officially closed on the farm on January 19.

The blueberry farm at 6254 W 200 N rural Rochester is far from new to the community.

The McCulley's have a lot of new ideas to bring to the table after taking over from the former owners, Maurie and Kathy Siders. 

The couple plans to run Valhalla Farms with family. 

They are hoping to kick off the season around July 4. 

A request to dig to county officials came after the digging was done and now Fulton County is making sure there’s no ill effects.

County commissioner Brian Lewis explains the problem.

Lewis notes a concern that can come up if such digging isn’t properly supervised.

From a joke in July to fate, there are now new owners of the fformer Siders Blueberry Farm.  Drew and Stephanie McCulley officially closed on the farm on January 19.

The blueberry farm at 6254 W 200 N rural Rochester is far from new to the community.

The McCulley's have a lot of new ideas to bring to the table after taking over from the former owners, Maurie and Kathy Siders. 

The couple plans to run Valhalla Farms with family. 

They are hoping to kick off the season around July 4. 

It's been more than 30 years since all of the Marshall County Humane Society has been out of dogs. 

In a Facebook post the shelter said all 16 dog kennels are empty and all dogs had been adopted. 

The shelter said they know the empty kennels won't last long, but it's still a huge milestone for the shelter.

They thanked those who have adopted a pet from them and gave them a forever home. 

More winter weather is supposed to arrive in Indiana this week, but the National Weather Service in Indianapolis says high temperatures could drop to as low as the single digits by the weekend.

Aaron Updike, meteorologist from the National Weather Service details the rest of the week.

The next winter weather system is supposed to move in around Thursdayinto the weekend.

Updike doesn’t expect any major snow or ice accumulation from the system that moves in Thursday.

On February 13, 2017 Abigail Williams and Liberty German went missing while walking on a trail near the Monon High Bridge in the town of Delphi.  On February 14, their bodies were discovered.

The Carroll County Sheriff's Department assisted by the Indiana State Police, Delphi Police Department and other law enforcement agencies continue to work diligently to bring this case to a close.

Law enforcement continues to utilize county, local, state and federal resources to accomplish our goal. There is still a dedicated, multi-jurisdictional team working on this case every day, which includes two Carroll County detectives, two Indiana State Police detectives and other law enforcement officers. We continue to actively investigate all tips and leads we receive by phone and email.  This type of violent crime cannot and will not go unanswered. 

Anyone with information about this crime is encouraged to contact law enforcement by utilizing the TIP HOTLINE: abbyandlibbytip@cacoshrf.com or 844-459-5786.  

Provide as much information as you possibly can. For example, the name of the person of interest, their date of birth or approximate age, physical description, address, vehicle information, why they could be involved and if they have a connection to Delphi.

In response to last week's burglary at Jonesy's Junction in Akron, there is now a $2,000 cash reward for anyone with information that can lead authorities to the arrest and conviction of the person (s) responsible. 

The restaurant noted on their Facebook page that one of the things that bugged the owners the most about the burglary was the stolen Fulton County Animal Shelter Donation box.

According to a Facebook post a very generous customer has stepped forward to offer a $2,000 cash reward for information.

The coronavirus pandemic has impacted everyone.  For the people who work and volunteer for the Fulton County Health Department it’s a constant state of change and adjustment to keep up the fight.

Fulton County Public Health Nurse Rhonda Barnett,

And now, the process is dictated now by how much vaccine is made available.

Little did Barnett know that her efforts some time ago to acquire equipment such as freezers would be as important as it is now.

Barnett says there’s several ways to make contact and to make vaccination appointments.  That includes calling straight to her department.

Beginning this month the firstround of vaccination dates / times are Thursday, 8 am -12 pm, then 12:30 to 5 pm.  Hours on Friday will be 8 am-1 pm and 1:30-4:30pm.

They Fulton County Health Department has been doing five vaccinations every five minutes with the help of 12-15 volunteers and four employees from the Fulton County Health Department.

The first day of the second dose (booster) shot of the vaccine will begin February 9.