A criminal investigation by detectives with the Indiana State Police Peru Post resulted in the arrest of Byron Leon Cohee, 67, of Macy. 

In February 2023, detectives began an investigation after receiving information of possible theft by Cohee, of money from his employees. The investigation revealed that some funds withheld from Cohee's employees' paychecks were allegedly not deposited into their retirement accounts. 

Cohee was served a Miami Superior Court II arrest warrant alleging two felony charges for theft. He was incarcerated in the Miami County Jail on two Level 6 felony theft charges.

A Walton man was arrested after leading Indiana State Police Troopers on a pursuit in Miami County.

Just after 4:15 p.m., a trooper was patrolling Wallick Road near County Road 300 South. Trooper Kern and Trooper Andrew Baldwin stopped a 1996 Dodge truck at a nearby residence after observing the driver who had active felony warrants out of Miami and Cass Counties. The driver, later identified as Ryan M. Oldaker, 42, fled through the yard of the residence and traveled southbound on Wallick Road for approximately two miles until turning west onto County Road 500 South.

The troopers continued the pursuit on County Road 500 South to another residence west of County Road 200 East. Oldaker was quickly taken into custody.

A subsequent search of the Dodge revealed suspected methamphetamine, marijuana, controlled substances, and drug paraphernalia. Oldaker was incarcerated at the Miami County Jail.

As a result of the pursuit and ensuing investigation, Oldaker was preliminarily charged with

Dealing in Methamphetamine -Level 2 Felony

Possession of Methamphetamine – Level 4 Felony

Resisting Law Enforcement with a vehicle -Level 6 Felony

Possession of a Controlled Substance – A Misdemeanor

Possession of Marijuana – B Misdemeanor

Possession of Paraphernalia – C Misdemeanor

Rochester schools are among those chosen to receive employer-sponsored child care grants.

Governor Eric J. Holcomb announced the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration’s Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning is awarding $18.1 million in employer-sponsored child care grants to 64 businesses, community groups and school corporations. The initiative, part of Gov. Holcomb’s 2023 Next Level Agenda, is mobilizing employers and communities to create or expand child care offerings that address the needs of working Hoosiers.

“We wanted those who know first-hand the critical needs of their employees, and those who are best positioned to partner in their communities, to create child care solutions for their workforce, and they delivered,” Gov. Holcomb said. “This effort harnesses the combined efforts of businesses, community groups, and schools that want to support working Hoosiers’ careers and our youngest learners across the state.”

Thirty-three employers plan to provide on-site child care to their employees, and 13 will offer child care tuition benefits to their workers. The remaining awardees plan to support child care for their employees in a variety of other ways, such as reserving seats at partner child care centers. 

Among those chosen from the area include the Rochester Community School Corporation ($128,638), B.T.I in Argos ($22,780), school corporations in Peru and Maconaquah ($200,000 each) and the Community Foundation of Wabash County ($750,000).

This round of awardees will receive 72% of available funding from the $25 million fund. Round two awardees – which will be announced in early 2024 – will receive the remaining funds.

Thirty large employers with 1,000 or more employees will receive up to $750,000 each. Twenty-five mid-sized employers with between 100 and 999 employees will receive up to $350,000. And nine small employers with between 20 and 99 employees will receive up to $50,000.

“I look forward to seeing all the inventive approaches to child care come to life in communities across the state, and partnering with more businesses, community groups and schools on this important, collaborative effort to support children, their families and the state’s economy,” said Courtney Penn, OECOSL director. “Birth to age 5 are the most critical in a person’s life, and now more of our next generation will receive early education that is crucial to their brain and social development.”

The program, a partnership with the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, uses a portion of the state’s remaining federal relief funds from the COVID-19 pandemic and is part of the state’s broader efforts to strengthen the early care and education sector, providing support for today’s workforce and investing in tomorrow’s. The program is also supported by the Indiana Manufacturers Association.

Culver Clerk-Treasurer Karen Heim has released the 2024 trash and recycling schedule for town residents.

Trash is picked up every Monday and resident should have their toters out by 5 a.m. Recycling is picked up every other Monday and also needs to be out by 5 a.m.  Republic Services will pick up one bulk item every month on your trash day.  

If you have an item for bulk pickup, you must contact Republic Services at 574-842-4719 to arrange for the pickup so that their drivers are properly prepared.

This is a list of bulk items that Republic will pick up:

Items shorter than 4' in length

Carpet must be cut and bundle no larger than 4'x5' and should only weigh 60 pounds

BBQ grills without the propane tank

Furniture (couches, recliners, love seats)

Mattresses and box springs (wrapped in plastic)  

Vanities                

Toilets need to be taken apart                        

Tables                                     

Chairs

Entertainment centers must be broken down                           

Outdoor toys must be broken down

Lawn Mowers/Tillers/Snow Blowers — Push units only with fluids drained and

Cans of dried paint with the lids off & absorbent material inside

Items not accepted by Republic as bulk items include:

Concrete

Automobile parts or any components including tires and batteries.

Cast iron bathtubs

Hazardous materials or chemicals

Explosives or ammunition

Rock, soil etc.

Landscape timbers and treated wood                                        

Railroad ties

Riding lawnmowers                                                                       

Animal carcasses

Garage doors/Garage door openers

Yard waste, stumps, limbs, and branches

Appliances including anything containing freon or has a cooling unit

Electronic items, such as computer parts or components, televisions etc. and

Treadmill/weight equipment

From her job as the Fulton County Public Library's makerspace coordinator, to leading the art in some of Rochester's downtown murals with Full Tilt Arts murals and more, local artist Erica Coffing continues to inspire the area with her creativity.

Recently commissioned by the Indiana State Museum, Coffing took herself out of her comfort zone for a project at the end of the summer to represent Fulton County with an ornament added to the museum's 92 county tree collection that is displayed each December. 

The 92 County Tree is still on display at the Indiana State Museum's Washington Street entrance until December 31, and will return next year during the 2024 holiday season. 

Having a little more than two months to work on the project starting at the end of the summer, Coffing highlighted five of Fulton County's unique characteristics in a quilt-like design. Blending reality alongside folklore with oil paint on a birchwood, Coffing included the legend of the Lake Manitou Monster to be the center of her piece, surrounded by the Fulton County Courthouse lions, corn, a round barn, and the majestic blue heron. 

A unique project compared to her usual work as a contemporary portrait artist, Coffing hopes that her willingness to step out of her comfort zone will enable her to continue growing as an artist. 

By continuing to put creativity on display, Coffing also hopes to inspire other artists to not let fear or self-doubt stop them from creating and sharing their art with the community. 

Due to the Culver Town Hall being closed on Tuesday, the December 26 Culver Town Council meeting was moved to Thursday, at 6:30 p.m.

The agenda for the meeting includes third reading of the 2024 Salary Ordinance, the second reading of a bond ordinance for the Economic Development Commission and TIF bonds and a resolution approving the Culver Plan Commission’s Redevelopment Commission amendments to the Economic Plan establishing a residential housing program. 

Also on the agenda is an update on the Dunes project.

A reminder that due to New Year's Day falling on Monday, Republic Services will pick up Culver trash and recycling on Tuesday.

Also, for those Culver residents who normally purchase their golf cart permits the first of each year, the council passed a resolution at their last meeting suspending the sale of golf cart permits until February 15 and extending the validity of the 2023 permits until that date.

Clerk-Treasurer Karen Heim said golf cart registration letters will be sent mid to late January.

A man was fortunate to be found alive days after he crashed in his truck on I-94.

About 3:45 p.m. Tuesday, the Porter County Dispatch Center received a 911 call reporting a crash on I-94 at the Salt Creek overpass, about a mile east of the Portage exit.

Two local fishermen were walking Salt Creek, scouting for fishing holes when they spotted what appeared to be a crashed vehicle. Out of curiosity, they made their way to the vehicle and observed what they thought was a lifeless person. However, when one of the fishermen touched the occupant, he turned his head and began to speak to them. 

The Good Samaritans immediately called 911 and requested help. The Portage Fire Department and Burns Harbor Fire Department both responded and after a lengthy extrication process, were able to remove the driver from the vehicle. During their extrication efforts, it was determined that the crash had more than likely occurred sometime around December 20. The driver was subsequently flown by Lutheran Air to Memorial Hospital in South Bend for treatment of severe, life-threatening injuries.

Preliminary investigation shows that the driver was operating a 2016 Dodge Ram truck, and he had been traveling westbound on I-94 when it left the roadway for unknown reasons. The vehicle drove into the north ditch, missed a protective guardrail and then overturned into the creek, coming to a rest under the I-94 bridge. The driver was pinned inside of the vehicle and was unable to call for help.  Had it not been for the two individuals that were walking the creek Tuesday afternoon, this incident more than likely would have had a different outcome. There had not been any prior reports of a crash in this area prior to the fishermen finding the vehicle.

The driver of the vehicle has been identified as Matthew R. Reum, 27, of Mishawaka.

Reum was able to drink rain water for hydration in order to survive for such a long period of time while being exposed to the elements.

Fulton County Sheriff's Department Reserve Deputy Stephen Garrison was recently recognized with the 2023 Sheriff's Standout Performance Award

With staff and their families present at the Fulton County Sheriff's Office Christmas party Sheriff Travis Heishman awarded Garrison with the 2023 Sheriff’s Standout Performance Award. This award recognizes a staff member who goes above and beyond for the office and the citizens of Fulton County.

Garrison has been a member of the FCSO for five years. He has taught every deputy and corrections staff First Aid, AED, and CPR. Garrison has also taught some of the FCSO inmates these lifesaving skills.

Garrison has offered to go through the trauma kits making sure they are properly stocked and provided guidance on what to include. The post by the Sheriff's Office notes he can always be counted on to volunteer whether that be with rolling up his sleeves to wire up the FCSO ATV with turn signals and tail lights to handing out junior deputy badge stickers to children in local parades.

“Reserve Deputy Garrison is always of the first ones to volunteer for a work assignment and assists on the road for even the worst of details. He has quickly become an invaluable asset to the FCSO. There is not a task or duty he wouldn’t help with, and I applaud his dedication to the FCSO. He has a giving heart that is both notable and honorable," stated Sheriff Heishman.

A Beech Grove man is in the Marshall County Jail with a charge of unlawful entry of school property by a serious sex offender.   

On December 21, the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department received a complaint that a serious sex offender had gone onto the property of Culver Academy and was allegedly taking pictures of students.

Detective Les McFarland with the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department began an investigation.  His report was completed and submitted to the Marshall County Prosecutor’s Office for review.

An arrest warrant was then issued for James F. Renick, 74, of Beech Grove. Officers of the Marion County Sheriff’s Department along with the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department located and arrested Renick.

Renick was transported and booked into the Marshall County Jail for a Level 6 felony.  He was initially held on a $1,500 cash bond. 

U.S. Senator Todd Young (R-Ind.) applauded Senate passage of legislation he helped introduce that would designate U.S. Highway 20 – including the 156 miles in Indiana – as the “National Medal of Honor Highway.”

“Our Medal of Honor recipients are some of our nation’s bravest heroes,” said Senator Young. “I am proud to support the designation of U.S. Highway 20 as the ‘National Medal of Honor Highway’ and permanently recognize and celebrate each recipient’s selfless devotion and sacrifice to our country. I look forward to this legislation passing the House of Representatives, and eventually becoming law.”

The Medal of Honor is the nation’s highest military award for valor, presented by the president in Congress’ name. U.S. service members who distinguish themselves “through conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty” can receive the medal. 

Redesignating U.S. Highway 20— the longest continuous highway in the United States— as the “National Medal of Honor Highway” would honor each state’s current and future Medal of Honor recipients and recipients from any state who travel on it. 

Legislatures and governors in all 12 states along U.S. Highway 20 have designated their state Medal of Honor Highways covering 100 percent of the 3,365-mile Medal of Honor Highway across America. The 12 states along U.S. Highway 20 accounts for about 62 percent of all 3,516 Medal of Honor awards presented since the Civil War. Designating U.S. Highway 20 as the “National Medal of Honor Highway” would ensure all 3,516 recipients and any future recipients from all 50 states and territories are honored.

Following Indiana’s designation, INDOT placed eight commemorative signs along the route through Steuben, LaGrange, Elkhart, St. Joseph, LaPorte, Porter, and Lake counties.

Fire crews fought for hours Thursday at an industry in Logansport.

The initial call came out just before 5 p.m. The Logansport Fire Department responded to the A. Raymond Timmerman Manufacturing facility at 800 West, CR 250 South to a possible fire in the heat-treating facility.

Crews arrived to find smoke coming from the roof. The fire was discovered burning in the void space between the old roof and the new roof. At that point, a call to all off-duty firemen was sent out.

Firefighting efforts were hampered due to the fact that a below grade tank of heat treat quench salts was located just below the fire. Quench salts are extremely reactive with water and are explosive. Grissom Fire was contacted for assistance with a large amount of dry powder extinguishing agent which proved to be a very valuable resource.

The fire was finally brought under control at 9:30 p.m. It’s been classified as accidental and will be investigated by the Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office.

Agencies assisting at the scene included the Logansport Fire Department, Cass County EMS, Cass County Fire District 1, Logansport Police, Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, Grissom Fire Department, Cass County Emergency management, Red Cross, Cass County Traffic Control unit, Logansport utilities, NIPSCO and the Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Office.

Indiana State Police Superintendent Douglas G. Carter has announced the promotion of Trooper Kyle Miller to the rank of Sergeant within the Peru District. Sergeant Miller will serve as a squad supervisor for the Indiana State Police Peru Post, encompassing Cass, Fulton, Grant, Howard, Miami, Tipton, and Wabash Counties. Miller received his promotion through written testing, job performance evaluations, and a competitive selection process.

Miller is a native of Kokomo, and a 2010 graduate of Northwestern High School. After graduation, Miller attended Indiana University Kokomo (IUK), where he obtained his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Miller furthered his education at IUK by obtaining a certificate in Public Safety. 

Miller is a nine-year veteran of the Indiana State Police. In December 2014, Miller graduated from the 74th Indiana State Police Recruit Academy and was appointed as a trooper assigned to the Peru District, where he primarily worked in Howard County.

Miller has pursued additional responsibilities as an instructor in Defense Tactics, Taser, and Tactical Medical. Miller is currently a member of the Explosive Ordinance Disposal Team (EOD) and the Clandestine Lab Team. Miller additionally serves as the north zone team leader for the Indiana State Police Honor Guard and as a Field Training Officer.

Miller recently concluded serving as a counselor at the 84th Indiana State Police Recruit Academy. In 2021, he graduated from the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Leadership Academy.

Miller joined the Indiana Army National Guard in 2010 and continues to serve with the rank of Captain.  

Miller currently resides in Wabash County.

The 92 County Tree has been a holiday tradition at the Indiana State Museum since 2008.

This year sees 36 new ornaments from Hoosier artists and artisans. Local artist Erica Coffing was commissioned to create an ornament representing Fulton County.
The Fulton County ornament is represented by a quilt-like design, with pieces of the county sewn together. Five shapes each contain an element of the county: our Lake Manitou monster in the center, cornfields, the lion sculptures guarding the courthouse, a round barn and the blue heron, which frequents our lakes, rivers and streams. The ornament is constructed of two pieces of birchwood which have been stained and then painted with oils.
Coffing works in oil, charcoal, and pastel. She is known for her colorful and dramatic artworks which include diverse portraits, landscapes, and figurative works.
The 92 County Tree is located at the Washington Street entrance of the Indiana State Museum and provides a digital kiosk for visitors to see each ornament closer and learn more about each artist.
Find out more by visiting the Indiana State Museum or at their website:
indianamuseum.org/blog-post/36-new-ornaments-complete-refresh-of-92-county-tree/ .

A Rochester man graduated this week with the 84^th Indiana State Police Recruit Academy.

Thursday's graduation ceremony was held in the Indiana State Capitol Rotunda.

After the commencement address, the oath of office for the 28 new State Police troopers was delivered by The Honorable Justice Christopher M. Goff, of the Indiana Supreme Court. Each new trooper was then presented their badge and official identification by Superintendent Carter and his staff.

Dustin Smith of Rochester was assigned to the Peru district.

The graduation marked the culmination of 24 weeks of intense training which totaled more than 1,100 hours. Some subject areas of training included criminal and traffic law, de-escalation, emergency vehicle operations, defensive tactics, firearms, impaired driving detection, scenario-based training, and a host of other academic subjects related to modern policing.

Each graduating trooper will be assigned to one of 14 State Police Posts across Indiana. Once at their assigned district, the new troopers will spend the next three months working side by side with a series of experienced Field Training Officers. The purpose of the field training is to put to practical application the training received throughout the formal academy training. Upon successful completion of field training, the new troopers will be assigned a state police patrol vehicle and will begin solo patrol in their assigned district.

Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch and the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs

announced seven Indiana communities will receive $375,320 in Planning Grants through the Community Development Block Grant program.

The communities will use the funds to develop plans for the implementation of community and economic development projects.

The applications being funded this quarter address utilities, economic development, downtown revitalization and comprehensive planning efforts.

Water Infrastructure Grants aid communities in completing a holistic study of potential issues and opportunities across their drinking water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure. By completing this planning, communities will be able to make decisions regarding their most urgent water needs while understanding how each system works in context with other utility systems.

Fulton County was awarded a Water Infrastructure Planning Grant for $58,320.

Economic Development Planning Grants help communities assess the current economic conditions and identify strategies to support existing businesses, attract new ones and compliment current technology and work skills initiatives.

One Economic Development Planning Grant is awarded to the Town of Lagro for $40,000.

Downtown Revitalization Planning Grants encourage communities to plan for long-term community development efforts in various forms, such as business creation, increased tourism, historic preservation and other economic revitalization efforts.

One Downtown Revitalization Planning Grant is awarded to the Town of North Manchester for $40,000.

It's been almost ten years since 19-year-old Joe Shidler passed away after a three year battle with leukemia.

Starting Joe's Hope as a Relay For Life team while Joe was still in high school, his memory continues to live on even more when the group made Joe's Hope Foundation an official non-for-profit in 2020. Headed by family members, Dustin Shidler, Joe's older brother, said Joe's Hope Foundation raises money to help those in the community, in particular, those dealing with cancer. The organization also acts as a resource for cancer-assistance.  

For the past three years Joe's Hope has celebrated the season of giving by helping those in the community in some way. This year the organization teamed up with Rochester Community Schools Superintendent Jana Vance to pay any outstanding lunch bills from all four schools with a $300 donation. 

Shidler said knowing local kids have to worry about one less thing is what makes it all worth it. 

With over 60 donation boxes throughout the community, Shidler has high hopes for the future growth of Joe's Hope Foundation. 

More information about Joe's Hope and their upcoming events can be found on their Joe's Hope Foundation Facebook page.

Those interested in donating to Joe's Hope Foundation can mail checks to PO Box 182, Rochester IN, 46975.

For cancer assistance resources and other questions Joe's Hope Foundation can be contacted by phone at 574-201-0134, or by email at joeshopefoundation@gmail.com. 

4C Health is proud to announce achievement of state level certification for mobile crisis through the Indiana Division of Mental Health & Addiction (DMHA). Certification reflects that 4C Health’s Mobile Crisis services are aligned with state standards.

“It means so much to achieve this next benchmark in our journey to becoming a rural regional center of excellence for crisis care in Indiana. Certification allows us to take the next step in sustainability by billing state Medicaid and Healthy Indiana Plans for these services as appropriate.We could not imagine life in our communities any longer without mobile teams, without our crisis stabilization services, without psychiatric urgent. It is simply an exciting time in the evolution of behavioral health in Indiana," said Carrie Cadwell, CEO of 4C Health.

Nicole Hiatt-Drang, Chief Clinical Officer, had this to say “What a great day to be a Hoosier and what an honor it is for all individuals involved, particularly our dedicated crisis team members and the communities we serve to achieve Mobile Crisis certification.  We are building a sustainable foundation for crisis care that is a game changer, a life saver for our loved ones, our neighbors, our friends and our communities.” 

4C Health began providing mobile crisis services in the fall of 2020 during the public health pandemic. Since then, 4C Health mobile teams have completed over 4,000 successful mobile deployments and counting in Cass, Miami, Fulton, Pulaski, Howard, Tipon, and White counties. Mobile crisis operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year.

Peer Recovery Specialists are a critical component to crisis response and mobile crisis teams. 4C Health is proud as an extension of our crisis care to have established a Peer Recovery Service department, signaling our commitment to further grow, develop, and train this critical workforce for mental health and substance use care.

“This means the world to me. To be able to connect our team of peers, who bring their own experiences to help others in crisis, and connect them to care that otherwise may not have occurred is a dream come true. Their willingness to share their own experiences to help others is such an incredible blessing," said Beverly Garrett, Director of Crisis Services.

To learn more about 4C Health visit www.4CHealthIN.org.

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

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

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

Storms & Severe Cold: Individual Safety

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

Winter Storms & Severe Cold: Protection at Home

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

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

Caston School Corporation received its EV bus that was purchased through the first round of EPA Clean Bus Grants. 

Caston was one of six school corporations in Indiana to receive the $395,000 grant to purchase an EV school bus.  13 buses total were awarded to Indiana schools. 

The grant was used to purchase the bus and the charging station for the bus.  Fulton County REMC partnered with Caston to provide guidance on purchasing the charger and the labor to install the charger. The bus was purchased from Kerlin Bus Sales in Silver Lake.

The Caston Transportation Department hosted a safety training on December 20 for the Caston bus drivers and area emergency response personnel from Fulton and Cass Counties.  Kerlin Bus Sales provided the training which drew over 50 participants.

A community open house for the bus will be scheduled at a later date.

It's been nine years.

Yet, not a single arrest has ever been made for the Warsaw cold case murder of Sarah Gibbs. The 34-year-old autistic woman was living independently in her Warsaw apartment with Cardinal Services when she was murdered on December 19, 2014.

Warsaw Police Detective Ryan Moore says despite the lack of leads they've gotten up to this point, they are still working vigilantly on the case. 

Howard Gibbs, Sarah's father, says the murder of his daughter is something he and his wife Betty, also think about everyday.

Intially being told their daughter had died in a fire, it would be days later until they found out that her death was more than an accident. An autopsy would later reveal that Sarah had been stabbed to death before the crime scene was set on fire.

Gibbs said the Christmas of 2014 would easily be considered the worst Christmas of his life.  

Although investigators know what happened to Sarah, they still don't know what transpired prior to the crime. One thing her father knows is that Sarah's autism made her an easy target for the murderer. 

The Gibbs family continue to remember Sarah for who she was as a person rather than focus about how her life came to an end. The lack of justice and closure, however, has been hard on the family since Sarah's death. 

Over the years, Gibbs has shared the locations Sarah was known to frequent in Warsaw with local media sources. The family continues to hope that someone may remember an interaction with their daughter that could produce a lead for the case.

Sarah's apartment had been across the street from the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds. Not being able to drive meant Sarah usually stayed close to that area. Gibbs said Sarah was known to frequent places like the Warsaw Community Public Library, stores around Market Street, and the old YMCA. 

Despite nine years passing by with no major leads, Detective Moore said he still isn't giving up hope about catching Sarah's killer. He urges anyone who knows anything about Sarah's murder to contact the Warsaw Police Department.

Michiana Crime Stoppers also has a $10,000 reward that still stands for information that leads to an arrest in Sarah's case. 

The Town of Culver is looking for a few good citizens interested in volunteering to help the community.

Culver Clerk Karen Heim has released a list of board and commission seat openings.

“This is a great way to serve the community as well as be involved in decisions that can craft the future of Culver.”

The Culver Plan Commission has two open seats next year that are appointed by the town council president.  They are four-year terms and to follow state statute the commission must be politically balanced so the appointees should be a Democrat or Independent.

The Culver Board of Zoning Appeals has two open seats next year.  One seat is appointed by the town council president and the other is appointed by the town council. Both positions have a four-year term.

The Culver Redevelopment Commission has five seats to fill for 2024.  Two of the seats are appointed by the council president and the remaining three are appointed by town council members.  All five appointments are for one-year terms.

The Culver Tree Commission has three seats open for 2024.  All three Tree Commission seats are appointed by the Culver town council for three-year terms beginning in September.

The town council also has one appointment for 2024 with the Library Board.

To serve in these positions, you must be a resident of the Town of Culver and have lived in Culver for at least a year.

If you are interested in serving on one of these boards or commissions, complete an application online and email it to kheim@townofculver.org or print it out, fill it in, and return it to Town Hall, 200 East Washington.

The deadline to submit applications is 4 p.m., on Thursday, January 4.

The Culver Town Council would like to make appointments at their January 9 meeting.

Mike's Trash is wanting to take a load off of local families in need this year with their winter hat and glove drive. 

Started on November 9, the drive ends December 29. Collected items will eventually be donated to Columbia Elementary, Riddle Elementary, Akron Elementary and Caston School Corporation.

Mike's Trash employee Alicia Fuller says the community has been generous, filling their tote more than halfway so far with new hats and gloves. The business is hoping for more before the end of next week to meet the needs of all the area schools. 

Fuller says the items will be passed out when the kids return back to school from Christmas break in January.

A former employee for Rochester Community Schools, Fuller says she has seen first-hand the need for something like this in the area. 

Donations can be dropped off at the Mike's Trash office at 824 Main Street in Rochester. All donated items should be new and in original packaging. 

For more information about the hat and glove drive you can call 574-223-6429.

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the 2023 Get ShakIN’ video contest, an initiative aimed at promoting awareness and preparedness for seismic events among schools in Indiana.

Many schools/students enthusiastically participated and showcased their dedication to creating a safer and more resilient state.

It was a tough competition as 27 groups of students turned in videos that held crucial safety tips. Pioneer Jr./Sr. High School’s AP Biology class was named the winner for creating a video that showcased best practices in a way that brought levity to an important safety topic. The students’ approach and dedication set a benchmark for promoting resilience and preparedness in the face of unforeseen natural disasters.

"We congratulate Pioneer Jr./Sr. High School for its achievement in the Get ShakIN’ competition. Its commitment to earthquake education exemplifies the spirit of preparedness and community resilience we aim to foster," said Mary Moran, IDHS Emergency Management and Preparedness director.

IDHS gave an honorable mention to Shenandoah Middle School and Kankakee Valley Intermediate School for the effort and excitement their students put into earthquake safety education.

The Get ShakIN’ video competition is part of ongoing efforts to prioritize safety and preparedness in the state. IDHS encourages other schools to utilize GetPrepared.in.gov to actively participate in initiatives that contribute to a safer and more resilient future.

Plans for major infrastructure changes at the intersection of U.S. 31 and State Road 10 at Argos are on the table.

In a recent meeting at Argos High School, INDOT revealed five options for the what has been a deadly intersection.  INDOT says they are getting the options to the public so they can accept comments on the proposals and report the results back to VS Engineering.

With all five options, McDonald's, the BP Station, and Subway are saved and won’t have to be relocated.  Three of the proposals have U.S. 31 going over State Road 10 and the other two options have State Road 10 going over U.S. 31.

All five options do have the state closing off access to Dewey Street / 17th Road at U.S. 31.  That would limit access for ITAMCO and Topps on the west side of the highway and access on the east side to Sequel Wire & Cable creating concerns about access to those industries.    

Marshall County’s proposal for major improvements to Linden Road on the west side of U.S. 31 could prove timely.  Anticipating the closure of Dewey Street / 17th Road it’s thought the industries on the west side of 31 could use Linden Road and head north to State Road 10 or south to State Road 110 to get access to U.S. 31.

INDOT and VS Engineers say the plans for the State Road 110 and U.S. 31 interchange should be ready mid-summer or early fall 2024.     

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

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

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

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

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

The bill would direct the Secretary of HHS to:

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

The full text of the bill is available here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Detectives with the Indiana State Police Bremen Post and Special Investigations Section arrested a Mentone man on alleged charges of possession of child pornography.

This investigation by the Indiana State Police began when a tip was received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). The tip ultimately led to a search warrant being served on a residence located in the 5000 block of West Wood Duck Drive in Mentone.

As a result of the investigation, David Ellenberger, 35, was arrested Thursday for Possession of Child Pornography.  Ellenberger was taken to the Kosciusko County Jail.

The Indiana State Police encourages Hoosiers to report online exploitation, solicitation, and enticement-type crimes against children to the National center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). The NCMEC website can be accessed through the ICAC Task Force website. 

Argos Firemen’s Inc., the volunteer group of firefighters serving the Argos community, recently purchased a new-to-Argos 2000 F250 Super Duty truck.

The truck was spruced up, new decals added, and was donated to the Argos Fire Territory.

On behalf of the Argos Fire Protection Territory Board, President Randy Snead received the keys to the new addition. “This is great, and we thank our volunteer association for raising funds and donating the truck.”

“We were able to purchase the truck from donations received at our pancake breakfasts, fair booth, and other donations received throughout the year," said Dennis Mark, President of the Argos Firemen’s Inc.

The new truck provides space for gear exposed to carcinogens to be transported back to the station safely, allowing for a clean cab in the fire trucks.

A clean cab will help minimize contamination of potentially cancer-causing toxins the firefighters are exposed to returning from a fire," Mark added.

The new truck has already been put to good use for general transportation, carrying extra hose to a fire, and bringing gear back to the station. The fire truck was purchased from the Bremen Fire Department.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reminds specialty crop growers that assistance is available for producers who incur eligible on-farm food safety program expenses to obtain or renew a food safety certification through the Food Safety Certification for Specialty Crops (FSCSC) program.

Producers can apply for assistance on their calendar year 2023 expenses through Jan. 31, 2024.  

“The Food Safety Certification for Specialty Crops program is just one of the many ways USDA is helping support local and regional food systems and opportunities for small-scale producers,” said Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “I’m encouraging specialty crop growers to discover how this program can help mitigate the costs of on-farm food safety certification and meeting regulatory requirements and apply by the January deadline.” 

Program Details  

FSCSC assists specialty crop operations that incurred eligible on-farm food safety certification and related expenses pertaining to obtaining or renewing a food safety certification in calendar year 2023. FSCSC covers a percentage of the specialty crop operation’s cost of obtaining or renewing its certification, as well as a portion of related expenses.  

  To be eligible for FSCSC, the applicant must be a specialty crop operation; meet the definition of a small business or very small business; and have paid eligible expenses related to the 2023 certification.  

Specialty crop operations may receive assistance for the following costs:  

·         Developing a food safety plan for first-time food safety certification.  

·         Maintaining or updating an existing food safety plan.  

·         Food safety certification.  

·         Certification upload fees.  

·         Microbiological testing for products, soil amendments and water.  

·         Training.  
   

FSCSC payments are calculated separately for each category of eligible costs. A higher payment rate has been set for socially disadvantaged, limited resource, beginning and veteran farmers and ranchers. Details about the payment rates and limitations can be found at farmers.gov/food-safety.  

Applying for Assistance  

 The FSCSC application period for 2023 closes Jan. 31, 2024. FSA will issue payments after the application period closes. If calculated payments exceed the amount of available funding, payments will be prorated.  

Interested specialty crop producers can apply by completing the FSA-888, Food Safety Certification for Specialty Crops Program (FSCSC) application. The application, along with other required documents, can be submitted to the FSA office at any USDA Service Center nationwide by mail, fax, hand delivery or via electronic means.  

Specialty crop producers can also call 877-508-8364 to speak directly with a USDA employee ready to assist. Visit farmers.gov/food-safetyfor additional program details, eligibility information and forms needed to apply.  

The Culver Town Council discussed a resolution during their recent meeting that would suspend the sale of golf cart permits.

The council recently adopted an amendment to the golf cart ordinance that would raise the permit fee to $100. The resolution presented December 12 states that the council wants to reconsider the ordinance amendment with specific consideration toward the permit fee.

As a result, the consideration of the ordinance amendment will extend into January 2024.

The council has agreed to suspend the sale of golf cart permits until February 15, 2024 and extend the validity of 2023 permits to that date.

The resolution passed with a unanimous vote.

This holiday season marks NIPSCO’s 11th annual Hope for the Holidays campaign, which combines donations from both the company and its employees to benefit various community- serving organizations across northern Indiana.

The Hope for the Holidays campaign has become a beloved tradition at NIPSCO, with employees eagerly participating year after year. It’s a testament to the company’s commitment to making a positive impact in the communities it serves.

As part of the effort, NIPSCO employees donated more than 1,000 toys to eight Toys for Tots organizations located throughout the NIPSCO service area.

Counties supported include:

• Allen, Adams, DeKalb, Huntington, Noble, Steuben and Wells

• Elkhart County

• Lake County

• LaPorte County

• Miami, Cass, Howard, Fulton, Wabash, Grant and Tipton

• North Lake Co. (Gary, Hammond, East Chicago, Whiting)

• Porter, Starke and Jasper

• St. Joseph County

NIPSCO’s contribution towards the Toys for Tots program is just one of the many initiatives the company

has undertaken this holiday season. Recently, the organization gifted 200 bags filled with toiletries and other supplies to Gabriel’s Horn of Porter County and the Crisis Center of Lake County. In addition, NIPSCO has been teaming up with various non-profit organizations and programs throughout northern Indiana to donate employee volunteer hours and/or more than $150,000 in company and employee donations.

The community partnerships include Miami County's Helping Hands among other agencies.

NIPSCO has been able to provide food, clothes and toys to families who otherwise might not have had items these available this holiday season.

For more information on other ways NIPSCO gives back to the community, visit NIPSCO.com/GivingBack.

Fulton County Pack A Back Pack is reminding locals in need of coats this year about their drive going on right now inside Tidewater Executive Tax Services.

Fulton County Pack A Back Pack Director Jacki Johnson said they currently have about 60 coats left, along with a large supply of hats and gloves, all with the tags still on them. 

The program was started eight years ago by Johnson. She says the look on the kids faces makes the coat drive worth it each year. 

Johnson reassures parents that Fulton County Pack A Back Pack never shames families who may need a little extra help this winter. Those in need may pick up coats anytime during Tidewater business hours Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 806 Main Street in Rochester.

Johnson also thanks the community for helping make the annual coat drive possible. 

Johnson said there is no set date for when the coat drive ends. Also, anyone from outside the Rochester area is welcome. 

Before making the extra trip, Johnson said families are welcome to call her office at 574-213-9649 and check to make sure the coat drive has the sizes they need. 

NIPSCO announces the completed installation of nearly 19 miles of new 24” steel gas pipeline that will service the new battery plant in the City of Kokomo with a source of natural gas for the future.

This new gas system expansion also supports the opportunity for future economic growth in Cass, Howard, and Miami counties. The project included an additional 800 feet of 16” steel pipeline, safety enhancements to the existing Walton gas regulator station, and a new customer station in Kokomo that will serve as a dual gas supply to the battery pant as well as the Greater Kokomo area.

“NIPSCO is steadfast in the economic development sector, providing the essential energy delivery service needed to grow communities,” said Rick Calinski, NIPSCO Director of Economic Development and Public Affairs. “Our team diligently works to forge positive relationships with new industries and businesses looking to build here in northern Indiana. This new gas system expansion is an example of how NIPSCO supports regional economic growth, and the successful completion of the work was possible through the support of local community leaders and stakeholders. We value these relationships and thank all who were involved.”

The company is proud to share that through this work, there were more than 250 local union and trade workers employed. 

The Outlet Youth Center has made some big changes in 2023.

From settling in to their newest location at 491 Apache Drive, to a change of hands for the center's executive director. On October 23, The Outlet Youth Center board announced that Taylor Showley would be taking over as executive director. 

The Outlet Youth Center is a faith-based, youth driven, community minded, safe place for the youth of Fulton County that was launched by former Executive Director Patience Hisey in 2018. With community partnerships and programming that provides structure to the kids, the original idea of The Outlet Youth Center was to provide a place that would encourage teens and preteens to make positive life choices. 

Showley began volunteering at The Outlet Youth Center in 2020 with Hisey, and quickly found a passion for helping the youth in the community. 

When Hisey left the center this past September, Showley said stepping up to the plate as exectutive director was something that just fell in to place naturally. 

She is hands on with the kids for the after school program from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Showley keeps students busy with the clubs that include art, chess, STEM club and more. She also provides transportation, picking up kids with The Outlet Youth Center van to take them home in the evening. 

A hot dinner is also served every evening to the kids.

At the end of some days, Showley says the kids she works with have taught her more than she ever could have realized. 

Having her hands full now as executive director, Showley encourages anyone wanting to help with the center to reach out at 574-223-5437. 

Showley says the dedicated volunteers who help, along with donations from the community keep the Outlet Youth Center running smoothly as it continues to grow. 

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

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

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

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

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

The following organizations have completed public art projects funded by IDDC:

• Lake Maxinkuckee Environmental Fund located at 116 N. Main St. in Culver - Artist: Shannon Wilson;
• Owen County Community Foundation, Inc. located at 114 E Franklin St. in Spencer - Artist: Israel Hogan;

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

Pike Lumber Company was awarded the Fulton County Community Foundation’s Lifetime Philanthropy Award at the foundation’s annual Giving Tuesday event on November 28.

The award recognizes a local resident or organization who has made a positive impact on their community through philanthropic efforts.

For nearly 120 years, Pike Lumber Company has been an influential fixture in Akron. Not only are they the state’s largest manufacturer and distributor of kiln dried lumber, but they are also steadfast philanthropists for Fulton County. Some of the many projects and organizations they have supported include the United Way of Fulton County, United We Stand Ministries of Akron, the Henry Township Fire Department, and several Valley sports clubs.

In the decades of partnership between the foundation and Pike, theycreated two funds; the Pike Lumber Company Fund Supporting the Akron Area Parks and the Pike Lumber Co., Inc. Fund that supports charitable organizations in the community.

 “Our company has been involved with the Pike Memorial Park since the early 1950s,” says Craig Brouyette, Pike Lumber Company President. “Our pledge to the Akron area parks is just one way we strive to give back to the Akron community.” 

In addition to their tremendous impact through donations, one of the company’s core values is encouraging their employees to be civic-minded and involved in their communities.

 “Pike Lumber Company has always held a strong belief in the importance of improving the communities in which we operate,” says Brouyette. “Our company greatly appreciate this prestigious award.” 

The Indiana State Police Peru Post is currently investigating a late Sunday afternoon single vehicle crash that seriously injured a Miami County Sheriff's Deputy on CR150E at CR300S, Miami County.

According to the Indiana State Police preliminary investigation,just after 4 p.m. Sunday, Miami County Sheriff Department Sergeant Nathan Freeman, 47,  was on patrol traveling northbound on CR150E near the intersection of CR300S.  Sgt. Freeman had just turned around and was attempting to catch up to a motor vehicle for an observed traffic violation.  As Sgt. Freeman's patrol car, a 2020 Dodge Durango SUV, crossed over the crown of the intersection at CR300S, there was a dynamic shift in vehicle weight.  As the vehicle weight shift occurred, Sgt. Freeman lost control of the vehicle.  The vehicle spun sideways into the ditch on the east side of the road. The vehicle then went over a culvert before striking a tree and then came to rest on the driver's side.

Sgt. Freeman was injured and entrapped in his patrol car for an extended period of time as firefighters from the Peru Fire Department and Pipe Creek worked to extricate him from the wreckage.  Upon extrication, he was air lifted to a Fort Wayne hospital with serious but non-life threatening injuries to his legs.  He was last listed in stable condition.

Sgt. Freeman was wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash, and there was full airbag deployment.  

Master Trooper Perez was assisted with the crash reconstruction by Trooper Abigail Russell.  He was also assisted by Troopers from the Peru post, deputies from the Miami County Sheriff’s office, Miami County EMS, Peru Fire Department, Lutheran Air, and Bowman's Wrecker Service. 

Winter is moving in and temperatures dropping. 

In cases of those with temporary furnace issues, or older homes with insulation issues, a space heater may seem like a simple solution to help keep your family warm. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, however, fires sparked by portable heaters caused 65 deaths and 150 injuries each year. 

With inflation hitting the wallets of local families recently, Rochester Fire Chief Tom Butler is reminding families to stay vigilant about the way you heat your home this winter. Butler said it's imperative that people who do need to use a space heater in their home or business remember to keep them away from furniture or any other object that could catch fire. 

Butler advised people to always check space heater for malfunctions, and to make sure the heating device being used is a well-made product.

Never plug a space heater into an extension cord, always follow the manufacturer's manual for instructions on how to use the device, and never leave a space heater unattended.

Space heaters aren't the only heating source families need to stay vigilant about to keep safe. Fireplaces are also an issue Butler says he sees at least once a year in Fulton County. Those who have chimneys in their home should make sure it's well-maintained and inspected each year before using, And never burn green wood in the fireplace.

Keeping up with preventative maintenance for your home furnace is another thing that's also important not just for fire prevention, but for the prevention of carbon monoxide. 

Butler stressed the importance of installing both a smoke detector and a carbon monoxide detector in every home.

For anyone in need of a smoke detector, Butler says the Rochester Fire Department has partnered with the Red Cross and now provides free fire detectors for any community members. That includes the option of having RFD install the fire detector in your home.  

Butler says making a home escape plan could one day save the life of one of your family members during a future emergency. 

Officers from various departments throughout Fulton County made 280 kids Christmas season a little brighter over the weekend during the Fulton County FOP Lodge 143's 27th annual 'Shop With A Cop'.

The event was held at the Rochester Walmart on Saturday. Each child received $100, and was able to pick out their own clothes and toys while shopping with officers. 

The kids, officers and other volunteers were also treated with doughnuts, coffee, and other beverages thanks to donations from Dunkin' Donuts and Starbucks.

'Shop with a Cop' benefits underprivileged children from throughout the area who are identified through nine programs in the area including local schools, churches, and social service agencies. The program is also intended to build relationships between officers and children of the community. 

The program was started in Fulton County in 1996, thanks to former police officer Dennis Price, who now serves as the program coordinator. Price served the Fulton County community for almost 50 years, working for both Kewanna and Rochester police departments, as well as being a security officer for the Fulton County Courthouse before his retirement in 2021.

Price said seeing the program more than triple from its first year, which had around 80 kids, has been rewarding. All funding was made possible by donations from community members and businesses. 

Always thankful for any donations, this years allotted spending amount of $100 was cut short by $50, compared to last years $150 spending allowance, due to the number of kids participating. 

Those wanting to donate for next years 'Shop with a Cop' can do so by mailing donations to P.O. Box 284, Rochester, IN 46975. Donations can also be dropped off at the Fulton County Sheriff's Office.  

An investigation led to a pursuit and arrest of a man in Cass County.

On Thursday, detectives with the Logansport Police Department were trying to locate Jesse Bandelier, 30, of Logansport, as part of a child molest investigation. They received a call from a family member that Bandelier had called them with suicidal intentions.

A patrol officer with the Logansport Police saw Bandelier in the parking lot of a Cass County church. Bandelier got into his vehicle and tried to flee. The pursuit continued through rural Cass County. It finally ended in a field.

Bandelier was taken to Logansport Memorial Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. He was then transported to the Cass County Jail on a count of Level 1 felony – child molestation and resisting law enforcement with a motor vehicle.

The Cass County Sheriff’s Department, Walton Police, Cass County EMS and Cass County Fire District 1 assisted.

Indiana State Police and local law enforcement joined together for the arrest of a man wanted on multiple charges in Kosciusko County.

Officers from several jurisdictions converged on the Union Center Amish Store located in Nappanee on Wednesday afternoon after a credible sighting of Michael Lee Eppenbaugh.

Troopers with the Indiana State Police were advised of a sighting of Eppenbaugh, 42, of Warsaw.  As officers from several jurisdictions arrived Eppenbaugh fled on foot and was believed to be hiding in a barn located on the property.  Officers searched for approximately 40 minutes and ultimately found Eppenbaugh hiding under hay bales. He was safely taken into custody and arrested for several outstanding warrants out of Kosciusko County.

Eppenbaugh was transported to the Kosciusko County Jail for the following warrants:

• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by Serious Violent Felon Level 4 Felony
• Habitual Traffic Violator-Life Level 5 Felony (three counts)
• Resisting Law Enforcement Level 6 Felony (three counts)
• Auto Theft Level 6 Felony (three counts)
• Possession of Methamphetamine Level 6 Felony
• Possession of Methamphetamine Level 5 Felony
• Residential Entry Level 6 Felony
• 10 additional Misdemeanor warrants

The Indiana State Police was assisted by the Elkhart County Sheriff’s Office, Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Office, and Nappanee Police Department. 

The Honorable Douglas Lynn Gutwein, Indiana State Representative, Retired, 75, of Cary, NC, formerly of Francesville, passed away last week after a year-long battle with cancer.

Douglas, fondly known as Doug to all, was born on April 4, 1948 to the late Clarence and Jane [Snedeker] Gutwein in Francesville. After Doug graduated from Francesville High School in 1966, he attended Ball State University before deciding to join the US Army and serve his country. Doug was stationed in Germany until receiving his orders for Vietnam where he drove a mail truck for the Army. He found himself traveling the dangerous roads between military bases ensuring that his comrades were able to stay connected to home and with their loved ones.

After his honorable service in Vietnam, Doug returned to Francesville and worked for the United States Postal Service as a mail carrier in Valparaiso,. Doug then moved to Santa Ana, CA where he lived and worked as a mail carrier before moving to San Clemente, CA where he met Mary Lewis Finley. They were married in 1979 in Mary Lew’s hometown of Georgetown, KY. Doug moved his new bride back to his hometown of Francesville where the family made their home. Doug adopted Mary Lew’s daughter, Mary, and in 1980, the couple welcomed another daughter into their lives, Lucy Jane. 

Doug was a small business owner and ran a steel wheel manufacturing company (known as FTC Products for many years. Although successful in business,

Doug’s true love was service to others. He was elected to the Francesville Town Board where he served as Town Board President (aka “The Mayor”). Among Doug’s many achievements during his tenure in this role was the expansion of the Francesville Library – an accomplishment he was most proud of.

In 2008, Doug’s commitment to service continued when he was elected to the Indiana State House of Representatives. For fourteen years, he faithfully served the citizens of District 16. Doug prided himself on attending every Lincoln Day Dinner, every fish fry, every pancake breakfast, and every pork chop dinner in the district. He was a fixture in local parades - with his golf cart proudly adorned with Old Glory, the Indiana State Flag, and the POW/MIA Flag and Lee Greenwood’s “Proud to Be an American” blaring from the speakers. He rarely answered messages from his constituents in text or e-mail, electing instead to call them personally. He loved his district and the people in it too much to do any less. Among the many committees Doug served on were the Veterans Affairs Committee, the Committee to Reduce Government Waste, and the Labor Committee where, in his role as Chairman, he regularly made use of an egg-timer to ensure everyone had their voices heard during his committee meetings.

Doug only sponsored or co-sponsored bills that truly meant a lot to him. Ambition was not his passion - veterans, rural communities, and babies were where his heart lay. He championed several bills, all aimed at making the lives of veterans better, helping the rural communities that he loved, and “saving those little babies” with bills like Graham’s Law and Bryce’s Bill. His tenacity in pursuing bills that were important to him earned him the reputation of being “charmingly cantankerous” amongst his peers. He was a lifelong member of the Republican Party; but for all who knew him, his legislative agenda was not partisan - it was for the good of all Hoosiers.

After retiring from office in 2022, Doug and Mary Lew began the process of closing that chapter of their life in Indiana and moving to North Carolina to be with family and grandchildren. While his retirement was regrettably short, the time spent in North Carolina was precious and filled with watching cheer competitions, football and baseball games, and working on making their new home feel like their only home. Doug was a fierce lover of his family and doted on all of his grandchildren, who gave him so much joy.

Doug was an amazing friend and mentor to many. He was a man who loved his “projects”, having the best grass in town, sipping gas station coffee with his friends, and telling fun stories and jokes by “Granddaddy’s pool” until long after the sun went down. Over the final months of his life, numerous friends shared many touching stories of how he impacted their lives, how he had never met a stranger, and how much joy his infectious and excellent sense of humor brightened every room he entered.

Doug is preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Jane Gutwein; a son-in-law, Chris Eads (who was married to Mary); his brothers, Bob Gutwein (who passed earlier this year) and Ron Gutwein (who Doug worked to have the bridge on I-65 over the Wabash River named in memory of Ron’s valorous service as a two-tour helicopter pilot in Vietnam and for Medivac services once returning home).

Doug is survived by his wife, Mary Lew Gutwein; and their three children, Jeff Blewett and his wife Jennifer, Mary Gutwein Eads, and Lucy Gutwein Schuetz and her husband David; his seven beloved grandchildren, Alex, Finley, Jake, Elisha, Jordan, Jacob, and Jenna; and his two brothers, Don Gutwein and his wife, Judy and Rich Gutwein and his wife, Pat. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. EST Friday, December 8, 2023 at the Apostolic Christian Church, 210 US 421 Francesville, with ministers of the church officiating.

Burial with military honors will take place at Roseland Cemetery in Francesville.

Visitation is available two hours prior to services at the church on Friday.

Memorial contributions may be made to Disabled American Veterans (DAV) or The Wounded Warrior Project.

Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbricht Chapel in Francesville.

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

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

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

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

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

Farm Loan Improvement Efforts 

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

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

More Information 

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

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

Governor Eric J. Holcomb is directing flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of retired State Representative Doug Gutwein of District 16 who passed away on Friday, Dec. 1. Flags should be lowered in Pulaski, Starke, Jasper and White Counties to honor his legacy.

Flags will be flown at half-staff from sunrise on Friday, Dec. 8 until sunset.

Gov. Holcomb is requesting residents and businesses in Pulaski, Starke, Jasper and White Counties to lower their flags.

A pit bull responsible for the death of a Cass County woman has been found.

The dog left the resident of the incident prompting a search all day Wednesday. Just after 9 p.m., a resident about a half-mile away contacted authorities that the dog was at their residence. A patrolling deputy immediately responded along with members of the victim’s family. The dog was captured without incident and transported by the Cass County Animal Control to a local veterinarian’s office for quarantine.

Earlier on Wednesday, first responders were called to the South 200 block of Cass County Road 400 West just before 6 a.m. Beverly Hayden, 89, was found dead n the living room of her residence. She had been attacked there by her 100 pound pit bull.

According to the sheriff’s office, a family member was present but was unable to stop the attack.

The case remains under investigation. Anyone with related information is asked to call Cass County at 574-753-7800.

A search in Cass County for a pit bull that attacked and killed an elderly woman.

First responders were called to the South 200 block of Cass County Road 400 West just before 6 a.m. The woman, Beverly Hayden, 89, was found dead n the living room of her residence. She had been attacked there by her 100 pound pit bull. According to the sheriff’s office, a family member was present but was unable to stop the attack.

The dog escaped the residence and prompted a search. The dog is described as a black pit bull with a white chest, It was not wearing a collar. A Logansport Police drone was brought in to aid the search but efforts were unsuccessful as of this report.

If anyone locates the dog they are asked to immediately call 911. Do not approach the animal.

The Fulton County Community Foundation has announced the recipient of the 2024 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for Fulton County – Wesley Steininger of Rochester High School.

Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are known for their community involvement, academic achievement, character, and leadership.

Wesley is the son of Matt and Jenny Steininger and plans to study Civil Engineering after graduation. He’s involved in cross country, swimming, track, National Honors Society, Key Club, and several other organizations in which he has received awards and honors. Throughout the years, Wesley has spent numerous hours volunteering with projects such as Shop with a Cop, Habitat for Humanity, Fulton County Pack-A-Backpack, and with his church’s youth group.

“Every year I am surprised by how involved and dedicated the finalists are to their school and community,” says Shannon Berger, NICF Scholarship Coordinator. “We wish Wesley the best of luck in school and look forward to seeing all he achieves.”

Each Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship provides for full tuition, required fees and a special allocation of up to $900 per year for required books and required equipment for four years. The scholarship is for full-time undergraduate students leading to a baccalaureate degree at any eligible Indiana public or private nonprofit college or university. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars may also participate in the Lilly Scholars Network (LSN), which connects both current scholars and alumni with resources and opportunities to be active leaders on their campuses and in their communities. Both the scholarship program and LSN are supported by grants from Lilly Endowment to Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI) and Indiana Humanities.

In determining Fulton County’s Lilly Endowment Community Scholar nominees, the committee assesses a multitude of criteria including high academic performance and community involvement. After the field of applicants was narrowed down, nominees were submitted to ICI, the statewide administrator of the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program, which approves the final selection of scholarship recipients.

“I am grateful for the scholarship committee, who makes these hard decisions each year knowing every one of these finalists are impressive young adults,” says Berger.

The 2024 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship finalists include Alexa Finke, Addison Zimpleman, Tanner Reese, Annie Harsh, and Payton Moore, who will receive $1,000 scholarships from the Fulton County Community Foundation.

Lilly Endowment created the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program for the 1998-99 school year and has supported the program every year since with grants totaling in excess of $505 million. More than 5,200 Indiana students have received the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship since the program’s inception.

The primary purposes of the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program are: 1) to help raise the level of educational attainment in Indiana; 2) to increase awareness of the beneficial roles Indiana community foundations can play in their communities; and 3) to encourage and support the efforts of current and past Lilly Endowment Community Scholars to engage with each other and with Indiana business, governmental, educational, nonprofit and civic leaders to improve the quality of life in Indiana generally and in local communities throughout the state.

The Fulton County Community Foundation works to improve the quality of life in their communities by assisting donors in fulfilling their charitable wishes forever.

Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based private philanthropic foundation created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly Sr. and his sons Eli and J.K. Jr. through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, Eli Lilly and Company. Although the gifts of stock remain a financial bedrock of the Endowment, it is a separate entity from the company, with a distinct governing board, staff and location. In keeping with the founders’ wishes, the Endowment supports the causes of community development, education and religion. The Endowment funds significant programs throughout the United States, especially in the field of religion. However, it maintains a special commitment to its founders’ hometown, Indianapolis, and home state, Indiana.

Since 1997, Independent Colleges of Indiana has administered the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program statewide with funding provided by Lilly Endowment. Founded in 1948, ICI serves as the collective voice for the state’s 29 private, nonprofit colleges and universities. ICI institutions employ over 22,000 Hoosiers and generate a total local economic impact of over $5 billion annually. Students at ICI colleges have Indiana’s highest four-year, on-time graduation rates, and ICI institutions produce 30 percent of Indiana’s bachelor’s degrees while enrolling 20 percent of its undergraduates. 

A Starke County traffic stop resulted in multiple charges in a drug arrest.

Just before 2 a.m. Monday, deputies with the Starke County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop in the 3500 South Block of 700 East. K9 Mack was deployed for a free air sniff. Mack positively alerted to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle. A vehicle search was conducted.

Deputies located approximately 13.64 grams of a gray substance. This later field tested positive for heroin with fentanyl. Deputies located approximately 6.15 grams of a yellow / off-white substance that later field tested positive for cocaine. They also located 1.94 grams of a clear/white crystal/rock-like substance that later field tested positive for methamphetamine.

43.24 grams of marijuana was also found along with numerous plastic bags, a scale, syringes, a glass pipe, Xanax, and a prescription bottle of methandone (prescribed to someone else), and other paraphernalia items were located.

Jordy Risner, 37, of Knox, was taken into custody and preliminarily charged with:

Two counts of dealing narcotic drug, Level 2 felony

Dealing methamphetamine, Level 3 felony

Possession of narcotic drug, Level 3 felony

Poss of narcotic drug level, Level 4 felony

Possession of methamphetamine, Level 5 felony

Two counts of Possession of controlled substance schedule, Level 6 felony

Possession of Paraphernalia, C misdemeanor

Possession of marijuana, B misdemeanor

Bond was set at $10,000 cash.

The Cass County Sheriff's Office has fielded several complaints.

According to Cass County, an individual claiming to be a member of their department is contacting people on the Sex Offender Registry and telling them they need another sample of DNA or they will go back to prison.  They've also told them that they have active warrants out for their arrest.

There were some instances where the sex offenders were asked for money by the unknown caller. It appears all of these calls were claiming to be from the Cass County Sheriff's Office.

The sheriff's office advises do not meet any individual without verifying who they are. The sheriff's office will never ask you to meet an officer and give him money.

If you receive any calls similar to this you're asked to call and report the incident to Cass County Central Dispatch at 574-722-6060 or contact 574-753-7800 and speak with the Sex Offender Coordinator.

The Culver Town Council received an update on a residential project called 'The Dunes'.

Culver Town Manager Kevin Danti updated council members. The project totals 301 units in the residential development. 152 multifamily units that include 36 one-bed, one-bath apartments, 72 two-bed, two-bath apartments, 24 two-bed two-bath patio flats with a one-car garage, and 20 senior style units.  Among those are 12 one-bed, one-bath and eight are two-bed two-bath. 

Current estimated rents range from $850 to $1100 a month. 

This project also includes 121 free-standing homes that range from two-bed, two-baths with two-car garages to three-bed 2.5-baths with two-car garages. 

Some of the homes will have basements and 28 duplex units will have full basements.

Culver received a $1.3 million READI grant which will provide the sewer and water infrastructure for this residential project.  The Culver Redevelopment Commission agreed to provide the $1.3 million match using TIF funds. 

Danti explained some of the infrastructure for the project.   Streets, curbs, and sidewalks will be provided in phases using two series of bonds. The first phase will be completed with a bond and the READI grant funding for residential phases 1 and 2. The second bond is conditional depending on the completion of phases 1 and 2 and the market demand for additional homes.

When asked about the amount of the bonds, citizens were told they were still being determined.  The amounts will be included in the Economic Development agreement currently being drafted.

The bond ordinance is expected to be presented at the December 12 meeting of the Culver Town Council and the Culver Economic Development Commission will consider a resolution approving the finance documents at their December 18 meeting at the Culver Library.  That meeting begins at 5 p.m.   

The Indiana State Police is investigating a serious crash that occurred early Tuesday afternoon affecting northbound lanes on U.S. 31 at S.R. 110.

Just before 2:30 p.m., Marshall County Dispatch received calls of a crash between two pickup trucks on U.S. 31 near S.R. 110.  Troopers from the Indiana State Police found the trucks blocking the northbound lanes.

A preliminary investigation shows that a 2002 Ford pickup was traveling southbound on U.S. 31 and made a left turn to go east on S.R. 110.  The driver, Matthew Kneller, 54, of Silver Lake, is alleged to have not yielded to northbound traffic and pulled into the path of another pickup truck. Kneller’s Ford was struck broadside on the right by a 2013 Dodge pickup truck that was traveling northbound in the right lane. 

Kneller was transported to Memorial Hospital in South Bend with injuries believed to be serious but not life-threatening. 

The driver of the Dodge, Joseph Mazurek, 35, of Booneville, Kentucky, was not injured.

Both lanes of northbound U.S. 31 were open just after 4 p.m.

The Indiana State Police was assisted by the Fulton County Sheriff's Department, Argos Police Department, Lutheran Ground, and Argos EMS.

On December 1, income-eligible customers, seniors, active military, and veterans experiencing financial difficulty paying their gas utility bill may apply for additional NIPSCO energy assistance programs.

Available programs include NIPSCO Hardship, SERV (Supply Energy Resources to Veterans), and SILVER (Seniors in Indiana Low-Income and Vulnerable Energy Resource) which will allow customers to receive a one-time benefit of up to $400 per year if they qualify.

The programs are open now through May 31, 2024.

SERV is an income-eligible assistance program available for active military and eligible veteran NIPSCO customers who need financial assistance with gas residential utility charges. To participate, customers must be an active member of the United States Armed Forces, or a former member honorably discharged, with an active NIPSCO residential gas utility account that is past due.

SILVER is an income-eligible assistance program available for NIPSCO’s senior citizen customers 60 years of age or older who need financial assistance with gas residential utility charges. Eligible senior citizens must have an active NIPSCO residential gas utility account that is past due.

The SERV and SILVER programs are earmarked for those who qualify for LIHEAP or Hardship assistance.

To see the full list of requirements for SERV and SILVER, customers should visit NIPSCO.com/IncomeEligible. There, customers may also apply for the appropriate program by completing and submitting an online self-attestation form and uploading documentation, if required. Applicants should allow 30 business days for the form to be received and processed. If program requirements are met, a one-time credit will be applied to the applicant’s NIPSCO gas residential utility account.

The NIPSCO Hardship Program is for customers just outside the federal poverty guidelines for LIHEAP. It offers up to $400 in gas bill assistance to households between 151 and 250 percent of the federal poverty level. Hardship funds are available through many of the same local Community Action Agencies where LIHEAP funds are distributed. To learn more about NIPSCO Hardship, visit NIPSCO.com/IncomeEligible.

State Road 25 will close between Ottawa St and 6th Street in Logansport beginning on or after Tuesday, December 5 through due to sewer work.

The project is for sewer work,

The official detour will follow State Road 17 and State Road 16.

For nearly seven decades, the food at Bill and Babes Riverside Inn has brought a lot of visitors to the small community of Pulaski, located seven miles south of Winamac on SR 119.

Although the unincorporated rural village hasn't seen a post office since 1923, the community of Pulaski sees travelers coming from as far as 60 miles away to eat the fresh seafood, handmade burgers, and more that is served at Bill and Babes. 

Dan Reutebuch took over his parents business in 1999. Bill and Babes had humble beginnings. Situated along the Tippecanoe River, the business was opened in 1954 by Bill Reutebuch, and his wife. Locals knew her as Babe. 

Now known across the state for their fresh seafood that Reutebuch has flown in weekly from Boston, Bill and Babes also holds the title as being Indiana's oldest family-owned tavern. 

Bill and Babes is open seven days from 11:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Although they do have a carry-out option, dine-in is for those 21 and over only.

Seafood specials vary each week, and can be found on the Bill and Babes Facebook page. Aside from seafood, their menu also includes fresh, never frozen hamburgers, steaks, hand-breaded broasted pork chops.

Customers can call 574-213-9608 for questions or orders to-go. 

A Chicago woman has been indicted for a Level 5 felony count of reckless homicide related to the accident that killed an Argos teenager in 2022. 

A Marshall County grand jury indicted Jowuana Edmond, 28, of Chicago. On August 20, 2022, Argos High School junior Emily Carr, 16, was killed in the two-vehicle crash at about 4:30 p.m. on U.S. 31 and 18^th Road.  

Carr's Chrysler passenger car was eastbound on 18th Road approaching U.S. 31 South.  For an unknown reason, Carr failed to yield at the intersection and was struck by a Volkswagen being driven by Edmond.

The police report from August 2022 stated that two passengers from the collision were flown to Memorial Hospital in South Bend, while a third passenger was taken by ambulance to Memorial Hospital.  The Marshall County police report listed the passengers as Marissa Ballinger, 14, of Argos in the Carr vehicle. In the Edmond vehicle were Omarr Edmond, 49, and Erselene Manuel, 70, both of Chicago.

Court documents released Friday state that Edmond was driving at a speed greater than reasonable under the existing conditions and with disregard for the harm coming from that.

Marshall County Prosecutor Nelson Chipman says an arrest warrant has not been issued.  Edmond has been ordered to appear in Marshall Superior Court I for an initial hearing on Jan. 9.

The Honorable Douglas Lynn Gutwein, Indiana State Representative, Retired, 75, of Cary, NC, formerly of Francesville, went to rest with the Lord on Friday, December 1, 2023 after a year-long battle with cancer.

Douglas, fondly known as Doug to all, was born on April 4, 1948 to the late Clarence and Jane [Snedeker] Gutwein in Francesville. After Doug graduated from Francesville High School in 1966, he attended Ball State University before deciding to join the US Army and serve his country. Doug was stationed in Germany until receiving his orders for Vietnam where he drove a mail truck for the Army. He found himself traveling the dangerous roads between military bases ensuring that his comrades were able to stay connected to home and with their loved ones.

After his honorable service in Vietnam, Doug returned to Francesville and worked for the United States Postal Service as a mail carrier in Valparaiso,. Doug then moved to Santa Ana, CA where he lived and worked as a mail carrier before moving to San Clemente, CA where he met Mary Lewis Finley. They were married in 1979 in Mary Lew’s hometown of Georgetown, KY. Doug moved his new bride back to his hometown of Francesville where the family made their home. Doug adopted Mary Lew’s daughter, Mary, and in 1980, the couple welcomed another daughter into their lives, Lucy Jane. 

Doug was a small business owner and ran a steel wheel manufacturing company (known as FTC Products for many years. Although successful in business,

Doug’s true love was service to others. He was elected to the Francesville Town Board where he served as Town Board President (aka “The Mayor”). Among Doug’s many achievements during his tenure in this role was the expansion of the Francesville Library – an accomplishment he was most proud of.

In 2008, Doug’s commitment to service continued when he was elected to the Indiana State House of Representatives. For fourteen years, he faithfully served the citizens of District 16. Doug prided himself on attending every Lincoln Day Dinner, every fish fry, every pancake breakfast, and every pork chop dinner in the district. He was a fixture in local parades - with his golf cart proudly adorned with Old Glory, the Indiana State Flag, and the POW/MIA Flag and Lee Greenwood’s “Proud to Be an American” blaring from the speakers. He rarely answered messages from his constituents in text or e-mail, electing instead to call them personally. He loved his district and the people in it too much to do any less. Among the many committees Doug served on were the Veterans Affairs Committee, the Committee to Reduce Government Waste, and the Labor Committee where, in his role as Chairman, he regularly made use of an egg-timer to ensure everyone had their voices heard during his committee meetings.

Doug only sponsored or co-sponsored bills that truly meant a lot to him. Ambition was not his passion - veterans, rural communities, and babies were where his heart lay. He championed several bills, all aimed at making the lives of veterans better, helping the rural communities that he loved, and “saving those little babies” with bills like Graham’s Law and Bryce’s Bill. His tenacity in pursuing bills that were important to him earned him the reputation of being “charmingly cantankerous” amongst his peers. He was a lifelong member of the Republican Party; but for all who knew him, his legislative agenda was not partisan - it was for the good of all Hoosiers.

After retiring from office in 2022, Doug and Mary Lew began the process of closing that chapter of their life in Indiana and moving to North Carolina to be with family and grandchildren. While his retirement was regrettably short, the time spent in North Carolina was precious and filled with watching cheer competitions, football and baseball games, and working on making their new home feel like their only home. Doug was a fierce lover of his family and doted on all of his grandchildren, who gave him so much joy.

Doug was an amazing friend and mentor to many. He was a man who loved his “projects”, having the best grass in town, sipping gas station coffee with his friends, and telling fun stories and jokes by “Granddaddy’s pool” until long after the sun went down. Over the final months of his life, numerous friends shared many touching stories of how he impacted their lives, how he had never met a stranger, and how much joy his infectious and excellent sense of humor brightened every room he entered.

Doug is preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Jane Gutwein; a son-in-law, Chris Eads (who was married to Mary); his brothers, Bob Gutwein (who passed earlier this year) and Ron Gutwein (who Doug worked to have the bridge on I-65 over the Wabash River named in memory of Ron’s valorous service as a two-tour helicopter pilot in Vietnam and for Medivac services once returning home).

Doug is survived by his wife, Mary Lew Gutwein; and their three children, Jeff Blewett and his wife Jennifer, Mary Gutwein Eads, and Lucy Gutwein Schuetz and her husband David; his seven beloved grandchildren, Alex, Finley, Jake, Elisha, Jordan, Jacob, and Jenna; and his two brothers, Don Gutwein and his wife, Judy and Rich Gutwein and his wife, Pat. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. EST Friday, December 8, 2023 at the Apostolic Christian Church, 210 US 421 Francesville, with ministers of the church officiating.

Burial with military honors will take place at Roseland Cemetery in Francesville.

Visitation will be from 2-8 p.m. EST Thursday, December 7, at the Apostolic Fellowship Center, 409 N. Morton St. Francesville, and two hours prior to services at the church on Friday.

Memorial contributions may be made to Disabled American Veterans (DAV) or The Wounded Warrior Project.

Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbricht Chapel in Francesville.

A Logansport man was critically injured in a two-car Cass County crash Thursday.

The Cass County Sheriff’s Office reports receiving numerous calls about the crash just before 3 p.m. Deputies responded to CR 300 South at US 35 along with Logansport Police, Walton Fire, Logansport Fire and Cass County EMS.

The initial crash report shows that Mark Pennington, 47, of Kokomo, was driving a 2024 Subaru Outback southbound on US 35 and began to turn east onto CR 300 South. During the turn, Pennington’s vehicle was struck by a northbound 2008 GMC Canyon driven by Dallas Hewitt, 84, of Logansport.

A medical helicopter was called and Hewitt was flown to a trauma center in Fort Wayne. Meanwhile, Pennington was taken by ambulance to Logansport Memorial for non-life threatening injuries.

The roadway was closed for about 90 minutes during investigation and cleanup.

The crash remains under investigation.

Fulton County ABATE Region 1 is holding their annual Treasure for Kids event this Sunday.

The event is from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Fulton County Fairgrounds in Rochester. Fulton County ABATE representative Robert Adkins says it's an event that's open to the public and helps local families and children who may be down on their luck this Christmas. 

Adkins says all proceeds the group collects throughout the year stay in Fulton County, and supports more than just the Treasure for Kids events. 

The American Bikers Aimed Toward Education of Indiana, commonly known as ABATE, is a not-for-profit know for its charitable contributions in the community. It also helps advocate for local motorcyclist. 

ABATE of Indiana is the nation's largest state motorcyclists' rights organization, with a full-time staff, around 150 volunteer officers, and over 100 certified safety instructors dedicated to serving the community and its bikers. 

Rain, rain, go away.

Santa's now coming on Saturday to Winamac, changing the Pulaski Chamber of Commerce's original plans.

The Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce Vice-President Leslie Hanson said they announced that the Winter Wonderland in Winamac has been postponed to Saturday due to weather. Hanson said other than the day being changed, everything else is still staying the same. 

A wide-range of family festivities will be in Winamac on Saturday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Contests, caroling, an electric parade starting at 7 p.m. that brings Santa to town, and more.

Hanson hopes switching the day of the annual Winter Wonderland to Saturday brings more people to join and enjoy the festivities.