Adams-Wells Regional News: July 2010

Friday, July 30, 2010

Conditioning underway for Crestview athletes

Huntington County Tab:

Crestview and River- view middle schools have joined the NELMSC (Northeast Lakes Middle School Conference) for the 2010-11 school year.

Students will be able to compete in a variety of academic and athletic competitions including academic super bowl, spell bowl, geography bee, football, volleyball, cross country, basketball, wrestling, golf and track.....

Thursday, July 29, 2010

New Millenium Jazz Orchestra is next up in LAC summer concert series

Huntington County Tab:

The LaFontaine Arts Council's Summer Concert Series will feature the New Millenium Jazz Orchestra on Tuesday, Aug. 3, at 6:30 p.m.

This year all the concerts will take place on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m., at the Forks of the Wabash. In the event of rain, the concerts will move to Heritage Hall, at Hier's Park....

Commissioners hear discussion about lowering existing speed limit on West Maple Grove Road

Huntington County TAB:

A Huntington County resident would like to see the speed limit lowered along West Maple Grove Road after seeing safety concerns with reckless and fast driving, she said.

"When people come out of Norwood, as soon as they hit the hill they floor it," the anonymous resident said. "There's 10 houses out here, and twice in the last month, I've almost been hit by a car when I've been mowing the lawn."...

Huge chicken farm sought

Decatur Daily Democrat:

The Jay County Commissioners have reviewed a notice from the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) alerting them that a Coldwater, Ohio, operator is planning to build a confined feeding operation....

Egolf exits at SA

Decatur Daily Democrat:

Cathy Egolf has resigned her position as superintendent of South Adams Schools, effective at the conclusion of the day Friday, August 6....

SAMS announces athletic start dates

Berne Tri-Weekly News:

South Adams Middle School has announced the start dates, times and locations of its fall sport practices.
Boys and girls cross country begins at 7 a.m. on Monday, August 9 at the cross country course (Monday, August 2 is an optional start, suggested for those attending team camp)....

Ticket information released by South Adams

Berne Tri-Weekly News:

South Adams will begin selling athletic tickets on Monday, August 9 in the high school office during registration hours in the cafeteria. After registration, athletic passes may be purchased in the athletic office Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The athletic department will again offer parents the option of working at athletic events for their all-sport tickets. If parents choose to work for their tickets, they must work 12 events to earn a family pass, six events for an adult pass, three events for a student pass or two events for a senior citizen pass (62 and older). Events fill up quickly and are assigned on a first come basis....

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

New water tower could help community grow

Huntington County TAB:

Markle Town Council gave its nod of approval on Wednesday night, July 21, for area economic development and engineering firms to create a proposal for a water tower on the northwest corner of I-69 and U.S.-224 - land that sits in Huntington County.

Having a water tower in place could be a draw for industries to locate in Markle, council members were told.

With Vice President Tamra Boucher absent, President Jeff Humbarger and member Mark Hamilton approved by consensus a proposal for project estimates to be presented at the August council meeting.....

Meeting leaves residents wanting more information about proposed fertilizer plant

Huntington County TAB:

Helena Chemical is close to being issued an operating permit that will allow the company to locate a plant east of Huntington, but local residents say they still have questions.

Helena Chemical has applied for a Federally Enforceable State Operating Permit that will enable it to build and operate a dry and liquid fertilizer mixing, storage and distribution operation east of Huntington along U.S.-24.
The Indiana Department of Environmental Management held a public meeting on the permit on Thursday, July 22, at Huntington University....

Berne Council, Smith Brothers agree on Berne Street plan

Berne Tri Weekly News:

Berne City Council and Smith Brothers came together at Monday’s council meeting on an agreement to vacate Berne Street in lieu of future business expansion phases should the need arise.
Smith Brothers official Chris Frauhiger had requested a 10-year-tax abatement at the July 12 council meeting for the purpose of building a $1.7 million expansion at the newly purchased Berne Furniture property.
Frauhiger had noted that the building would mainly be used for warehouse storage, but that it would allow for room in the main plant to open up a new assembly line that would ultimately result in the creation of 12 new jobs to the company’s present work force of 275 employees....

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

County to host fiscal summit Aug. 3

East Allen Times:

FORT WAYNE – All taxing units in Allen County can discuss community spending priorities and the effect property tax caps will have on anticipated revenues during a special fiscal summit next week....

Brine recalls VIP lacrosse gloves with lead paint

East Allen Times:

WASHINGTON, D.C., - Brine Lacrosse Gloves sold at last year are being recalled because of lead levels exceed the federal standard in the paint used on the silver triad logo on the back of the glove. ...

‘Flash Back’ raises $1,300 for HU Mertz Center

Huntington County TAB:

The "Flash Back to the 60s" car show on July 16, sponsored by the Country Cruisers and led by Dave and Paula Funk, raised a total of $1,390.84 for the Joe Mertz Center for Volunteer Service at Huntington University....

Street vacation impasse resolved in Berne

Decatur Daily Democrat:

An impasse between Berne City Council and a local business over the vacation of a city street has been resolved to the satisfaction of both parties involved....

New covered bridge grant bid on tap

Decatur Daily Democrat:

Will the third time be the charm for the covered bridge near Ceylon?
At Monday's meeting of the Adams County commissioners, the three executives signed ....

Monday, July 26, 2010

Gray resigns position on Andrews Town Council

Huntington County Tab:

Andrews Town Council President Bob Gray has resigned his post from the Andrews Town Council, effective July 19, said Bill Johnson, Andrews clerk-treasurer....

Huntington residents step up to keep parks nicely maintained

Huntington County Tab:

Summer is in full swing and more area residents have been spending time at the local parks than in previous years.

The Huntington Parks Department is responsible for the overall maintenance of the nine parks and Denise Bard, superintendent, says that the department has received an overwhelming response from people wanting to help with the upkeep.

"Well, it all started with the budget situation and the fact that we lost staff," states Bard. "We've always had a few volunteers every year, but never on this large a scale."....

Bridge replacement at Clinton moving forward

East Allen Times:

FORT WAYNE — Work on the Martin Luther King Jr. Bridge over the St. Mary’s River in downtown Fort Wayne will shift to the right side of the bridge starting Monday, the Indiana Department of Transportation said in a news release. ....

Kekionga Festival is expanding

Decatur Daily Democrat:

The seventh annual Kekionga Festival in Decatur will take place August 27-29, with events and activities at Riverside Center, Riverside Park, downtown, and the city parking lot behind the Chamber of Commerce headquarters....

Ducklings rescued

Decatur Daily Democrat:

Firefighters became ducksavers on Friday.
On a blazingly hot afternoon — at least 92 degrees and no shade — three members of the Decatur Fire Department spent some two hours rescuing nine ducklings, just a few days old, from a sewer under a parking lot.
A mother duck had been walking across the asphalt lot of the Fleetwood RV service center on Commerce Dr. in Industrial Park, on the west side of town, when 9 of her 11 babies slipped through holes in a manhole cover.....

Swiss Heritage barn to be part of international Skypefest

Berne Tri-Weekly News:

A poster board filled with pictures showing the moving of the Swiss Heritage barn from the Edwin Nussbaum farm to Swiss Heritage Village on May 22, 1993, is only a small part of a display honoring the Schweitzer barn with a cantilever “fore bay” on August 7 when genuine Swiss designed barns will be featured in an international skyping event.
Swiss Heritage Village executive director Gretchen Lehman noted recently that the local barn has been invited to be part of a “Celebration of Swiss Barns” in the United States, Canada, and Switzerland....

Friday, July 23, 2010

Kids battle to be fastest cookie stacker during 2010 Allen County Fair

East Allen Times:

FORT WAYNE — It was the battle of the last cookie stack standing Thursday at the Allen County Fairgrounds.

Several participants in different age categories crowded around two long white tables for the annual cookie stacking contest at the Allen County Fair.

Each contestant was given about 12 cookies, provided by Wal-Mart, to make the biggest stacks they could in one minute. ....

North Adams registration dates are unveiled

Decatur Daily Democrat:

North Adams Schools officials have announced registration dates and times for the 2010-11 year. The dates are as follows:
Northwest and Southeast elementary schools: Thursday, August 5, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 4-7 p.m.....

Records set at auction

Decatur Daily Democrat:

At least two records were set at Thursday's livestock sale that concluded the 2010 Adams County 4-H Fair.
The 15.75-pound fryer pen of rabbits owned by Madison Glancy was ...

Start times for fall practices

Berne Tri-Weekly News:

South Adams High School has announced the start times, dates and locations for its fall sports practices.
Girls varsity golf will begin Friday, July 30 at 9 a.m. at the Golf Course of the Limberlost in Geneva.
All other sports and cheerleading begin on Monday, August 2 at the following times and places: (more)

Local officials watching Wabash River for Grand Lake algae

Berne Tri-Weekly News:

Just when southern Adams County officials were trying to solve one problem that could pollute the Wabash River basin, another of even greater size popped up on the horizon.
An extremely dangerous algae bloom that could endanger not only animal but also human life was discovered in the waters of Grand Lake St. Marys at Celina.
Officials have been grappling for several months about a possible mega-dairy farm considering locating near the Wabash River along the Jay-Adams County line, close to Bear Creek Farms....

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Operation Backyard making Huntington a brighter, cleaner city

Huntington County TAB:

After the past weekend, Huntington residents may have noticed brighter fire hydrants, cleaner streets and improved properties as the result of a three-day youth event sponsored by several area churches.

More than 200 area youths took to the streets of Huntington on Saturday, July 17, as part of Operation Backyard, a collaborative effort of a dozen local church youth groups putting teenagers to work painting, cleaning and serving with local charities...

Intuitive musical instruments of yesteryear

East Allen Times:

FORT WAYNE — The Allen County Fairgrounds hosted the 2010 Musical Instruments of Yesteryear Wednesday afternoon.

The show provided musical entertainment fashioned after what was around during the days of the settlers.

The instruments included a chord zither, a tremola, an ukelin, a potato bug mandolin, a ukulele, a lap and cardboard dulcimer, a tenor banjo, a whistle and lumber jacks.

Not every instrument...

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

David Prather is overall grand champion in llama show

Huntington County Tab:

The 2010 4-H Llama Show was held at the Chief LaFontaine Saddle Club in rural Huntington on Monday evening, July 19.

Both llamas and alpacas were eligible for the show. In addition, three participants were selected to compete at the Indiana State Fair in August from the poster competition.

Results are listed below:.....

Landrum selected to serve on school board

Huntington County TAB:

Ben Landrum was appointed to the Huntington County Community School Corporation Board of School Trustees for District 3 on Monday evening, July 19.

His selection followed a special session so the board could interview the remaining two candidates and an executive session to discuss the five men up for the seat to replace Rick Brubaker.

The board was forced to make the appointment because no one ran in the spring election as a candidate for that seat.

Fort Wayne to catalog historic sites throughout city, Allen County

East Allen Times:

FORT WAYNE – The city of Fort Wayne is partnering with ARCH to electronically catalog sites and structures of historical significance in Fort Wayne and throughout Allen County.

ARCH, a non-profit historic preservation organization serving northeast Indiana, and the city's Historic Preservation Department are currently driving by each street and road looking for current and potential historic properties, city officials said in a news release.....

Youth talent contest performing for all

East Allen Times:

FORT WAYNE — The 2010 Allen County Fair Youth Talent Contest produced some incredible performances Tuesday evening.

Ten-year-old Katherine Hollman, dressed in a pink and white sparkling outfit, was excited and prepared to perform for the judges.

"I am getting ready to get up on stage and have fun," Hollman said....

County jobless rate ticks up

Decatur Daily Democrat:

Despite an overall reduction in the number of county residents without jobs, the unemployment rate in Adams County climbed slightly in June, the first hike in local joblessness since a miniscule increase in December of 2009....

Sprunger named Royal Ambassador

Decatur Daily Democrat:

Kyle Sprunger was announced as the Adams County 4-H Fair's 2010 Royal Ambassador in ceremonies held Tuesday night on the stage at the Monroe Fairgrounds....

County 4-H parade was "best as they come"

Berne Tri-Weekly News:

For 87-year-old Bill Ringger, there was no question about the success of Tuesday night’s 4-H Parade in Monroe. It was, “the best as they come.”
“We have a lot of family out here. I wouldn’t miss it for anything,” said Ringger, who along with his wife Marge, don’t remember how many fairs and parades they have attended.
“We went to different fairs back when we were dating and we’ve been married for 65 years; that says something,” said Ringger. “Of course, we used to go to the Bluffton fair a lot when we were younger.”
The Ringgers, who live southwest of Monroe, were caught up in this year’s event due to the involvement of grandchildren in the Adams County 4-H program....

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Andrews council to have special meeting Thursday

Huntington County TAB:

The Andrews Town Council will hold a special meeting on Thursday, July 22, at 6 p.m. to award an insurance contract for the town's insurance.

The town's current policy with Mettler Insurance expires on July 21. Mettler and IMG Insurance companies have both submitted proposals to the council.....

City accepts grant to rehire firefighters

Huntington County TAB:

With the mayor’s seat empty, the Board of Public Works and Safety passed a resolution on Monday morning, July 19, to accept a grant which will return all six laid-off firefighters to work beginning Aug. 15.

The $817,360 SAFER (Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency
Response) grant, awarded on May 20 by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, is intended for operations, including hiring. It is funded through the United States Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters program....

‘Very similar’ solid waste budget going to the council

Decatur Daily Democrat:

The Adams County Solid Waste Management District's board of directors on Monday gave preliminary approval — the only real voice the board will have — on the waste district's 2011 operating budget....

Big night set at fair

Decatur Daily Democrat:

Monroe will likely be bulging with people tonight as some of the main attractions of the Adams County 4-H Fair are scheduled.
The popular parade is due to launch at 7 p.m. through the streets of Monroe. ...

Monday, July 19, 2010

Alleged drunk driver cited after city crash

Decatur Daily Democrat:

Four people — including three Bellmont High School juniors — were injured as a result of a head-on, alleged alcohol-related crash at 10:05 p.m. Friday on E. Jackson Street near U.S. 224....

County OKs added pauper attorney funds

Decatur Daily Democrat:

At the July meeting of the Adams County Council, unanimous votes approved all requested fiscal transactions, led by a request from Adams Circuit Court Judge Fred A. Schurger for a $50,000 additional appropriation...

Pacesetters get going to kick off new United Way campaign

Huntington County TAB:

With freshly-grilled hamburgers under their belts, representatives of eight local businesses set out Wednesday, July 14, to start building excitement for the 2010 Huntington County United Way campaign - and to start building a pool of contributions that will help fund agencies serving as safety nets and springboards for Huntington County residents.

The Pacesetter companies - who will "set the pace" for the community-wide United Way campaign - were treated to burgers grilled by Huntington County Community Schools Food Services Director Tom Lentes during the mid-day picnic at Hier's Park. They went back to their workplaces to run campaigns in advance of the general campaign in hopes of inspiring an increased level of giving....

Cardes crowned 2010 Miss Allen County

East Allen Times:

FORT WAYNE — Lindsey Cardes confidence paid off Sunday in winning the 2010 Miss Allen County Queen Pageant.

Cardes, a 16-year-old Homestead High School student, won a $1,000 scholarship, along with other prizes and will reign over the Allen County Fair July 20-25.

Cardes' hair was elegantly pulled back as her long dark curls complemented the sophisticated blue evening dress she wore. Her smile was as big as ever when the sparkling crown was placed on her head. ....

Hummel crowned Miss Adams County 2010

Berne Tri-Weekly News:

“Completely overwhelmed,” is how 2008 Adams Central graduate Cara Lea Hummel described her feelings Sunday evening after being chosen as the 2010 Miss Adams County.
“I love representing Adams County. I love living here; I don’t think I could have chosen a better county to be raised in,” said Hummel, the daughter of Jeff and Dawn Hummel.
“I like everything about this county. I am honored to represent it,” added Hummel.
Other awards included: viewer’s choice, Jacqueline Liechty; second runner-up, Katie Bluhm and first runner-up, Shelby Bluhm....

Friday, July 16, 2010

Erin's House hosting camp to help grieving children

East Allen Times:

FORT WAYNE — Erin's House for Grieving Children will sponsor a weekend camp for kids ages 8-13 who are learning to adjust to life after the death of a loved one.

Camp Good Grief, Aug. 27-29 at Camp Potawotami, provides a comfortable and safe setting for children. ....

Car show to give HU’s Mertz Center second shot to raise funds

Huntington County TAB:

After a discouraging rain-out of its own earlier car show planned in April, Huntington University's Joe Mertz Center for Volunteer Service has another shot at raising money for a new van, thanks to a generous offer by a Huntington couple and their car club.

The Country Cruisers, which consist of Dave and Paula Funk, of Huntington, and several other local couples, will donate proceeds from their 15th annual "Flash Back to the '60s" car show on Friday, July 16, to the JMC....

Kings to head 4-H parade

Decatur Daily Democrat:

The husband-and-wife team of Rex and Carol King of rural Decatur will serve as the Grand Marshalls of the 2010 Adams County 4-H Parade, which will start at 7 p.m. next Tuesday in Monroe....

County schools hiking security

Decatur Daily Democrat:

A report on increasing security at the three school systems in Adams County was given at this week's meeting of the Adams Central school board by Dale Bieberich, who spent 18 years at AC and 11 ....

Moyer brings message to Berne community

Berne Tri-Weekly News:

It was July 1 when Doug Moyer, a German teacher from Penndale Middle School in Lansdale, Pennsylvania, set his starting block at the Liberty Bell and headed out for a 3,000 mile trek across the United States.
Wednesday, Moyer ran into Berne and spent much of the day touring the city and telling of his enthusiasm for Global Disciples, a non-profit mission group that he is representing during his journey.
Moyer estimated that he will run 50 to 60 miles a day before arriving in San Francisco by the end of August. When he reaches the west coast, he will join 11 others who have completed the cross-country run in less than 60 days....

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Car show to give HU’s Mertz Center second shot to raise funds

Huntington County TAB:

Old Fort to re-enact Civil War July 17-18

East Allen Times:

FORT WAYNE — Re-enactors will bring the Civil War era back to life in downtown Fort Wayne July 17-18 at the Old Fort.

Hear the cannons roar, the muskets fire and come and see if the north wins again this weekend as soldiers and civilians provide demonstrations in blacksmithing, spinning, gardening, medicinal treatments and artillery. ...

Neighborhood friends team up for Three Rivers Festival bed races

East Allen Times:

FORT WAYNE — The annual bed races at the Three Rivers Festival are an opportunity for local businesses to do something fun and get some advertising for their companies in the process.

This year, however, one team chose a different route....

$940,000 cut in state funds is seen for NA

Decatur Daily Democrat:

The North Adams school board will meet in special session at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 27, as the first step in crafting the school district's operating budget for 2011. ...

Moyer: ‘Can’t dunk a basketball, but I can run long distances’

Decatur Daily Democrat:

Approximately 200 people turned out to see Doug "Dutch" Moyer of Philadelphia as he made a stop at Lehman Park in Berne on Wednesday as part of a two-month, 3,000-mile Run Across America. ....

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Traffic diverted to temporary runaround on U.S. 33

East Allen Times:

ALLEN COUNTY – Traffic is diverted in a temporary runaround on the north branch of U.S. 33, three miles south of U.S. 30, to enable workers to install a box culvert over Benward Ditch, the Indiana Department of Transportation Fort Wayne District said in a news release....

Workshop to help parents deal with a child’s challenging behaviors

East Allen Times:

FORT WAYNE — Parents with children up to eight years old may attend a free workshop focusing on, "Addressing Young Children's Challenging Behaviors," Aug. 20 at Ivy Tech Community College Auditorium. .....

First Mothers Club marks century on the local landscape

Huntington County Tab:

The First Mothers Club recently met at Huntington University for its annual guest luncheon.

The occasion was a special one as it also marked the 100th anniversary of the club's existence.

The club was started in the early 1900s by Susette Butler, who attended a Mother's Congress in Washington DC.

The National Congress of Mothers, created by Alice Birney and her friend Phoebe Apperson Hearst, was a movement dedicated to create a better society for raising children and collaboration among public agencies concerned with child welfare.

Sports fee is gone

Decatur Daily Democrat:

An athletic activity fee approved by the North Adams Community Schools' board of education just a month earlier was rescinded Tuesday during the board's July meeting....

New NA board split on salary, waiver

Decatur Daily Democrat:

The new-look North Adams school board was only minutes into its latest incarnation Tuesday evening when one of the most intense and prolonged debates of the night took place, ending in a deeply-divided vote....

Berne Council grants abatements for Smith Brothers expansion

Berne Tri-Weekly News:

Smith Brothers of Berne comptroller Chris Frauhiger announced a 1.65 million storage building expansion at Berne City Council meeting on Monday evening.
The expansion would cover a 32,000 square foot area and would mainly be used for storage. However, Frauhiger said, the key to the project would open space for more line expansion at the main furniture plant that would add 12 jobs to the company roster.
“We are currently employing 125 workers,” said Frauhiger. “The good news is that the 12 jobs would all be new jobs that would totally add to the current work force.”...

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Dogs steal the show at Allen County Fair

East Allen Times:

FORT WAYNE — Showmanship competitions at the Allen County Fair can get a little more competitive for the 4-H’ers.

But first-year participant Taylor Pierce brought a little different approach Monday during the 2010 4-H Dog Rally and Showmanship at the Home Loan Building at the Allen County Fairgrounds.

Pierce brought her small cavashon dog Gizmo to the show. ...

School board interviews possible new members; selection to be made July 19

Huntington County Tab:

Three candidates for Rick Brubaker's third district seat on the Huntington County Community School Corporation Board of School Trustees took the hot seat on Monday, July 12, for interviews to determine who will take over representation of the southern end of the county.

Joe Wiley, the corporation's attorney, moderated the 10-question, 25-minute interviews for Chod Boxell, Rex Sisson and Mike Trout. The questions included how willing the candidates are regarding the position's time commitment, strengths and weaknesses of the corporation, how the candidate would deal with their district's concerns and the candidate's priorities for the corporation and individually.

Two flee early-morning house fire

Decatur Daily Democrat:

Just a few days after the last house fire handled by the Monroe Fire Department, another one occurred early this morning near that town....

Smith Bros. expansion hits snag

Decatur Daily Democrat:

Berne City Council on Monday evening gave its preliminary approval to a request for tax abatements to facilitate a planned expansion of the Smith Bros. furniture plant. ...

Monday, July 12, 2010

Dogs show off obedience training

East Allen Times:

FORT WAYNE—The 2010 4-H Dog Obedience Show took place July 11 at the Home Loan Building at the Allen County Fairgrounds.

The 4-H participants for the show ranged from third to 12th grade. The show was open to dogs of all breeds as long as they were at least six months old....

Volunteers keep festival running

East Allen Times:

Without it, Three Rivers Festival may not be able to go on. It is the often overlooked and forgotten part of the festival that is very crucial for all the food vendors.

Ice.

Becky Talarico, along family and friends, volunteer at the Three Rivers Festival by running the ice truck. The ice is provided by Sun King Ice.

Royalty contest on Friday kicks off action as 80th county 4-H fair takes center stage

Huntington County Tab:

The 80th Huntington County 4-H Fair kicks off this Friday, July 16, with the selection of the 2010 fair royalty from a field of 12 veteran 4-H members.

The traditional opening parade will be held just prior to the royalty contest, but this year's parade will follow a new route. Parade participants will assemble at SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church on Cherry Street, then take John Street to Jefferson Street and continue north to Huntington North High School, where the royalty contest will be held.....

Huntington’s newest police dog to start serving town on July 14

Huntington County Tab:

Huntington's newest police dog, Orion, will serve his first patrol day on Wednesday, July 14, after graduating on July 1 and completing his certification through the Allen County K-9 Academy.

After "a long 14 weeks," K-9 Officer Alan Foster says he is ready to hit the streets with his new partner.

Foster's former partner, K-9 Brix, retired from the Huntington Police Department on Jan. 15, 2010, after 10 years with HPD. Less than a month later, on Feb. 3, he was euthanized due to his genetic spinal nerve disease....

Mayor Schultz picks two and thanks two

Decatur Daily Democrat:

Mayor John Schultz made two appointments and issued appreciation to two retired city employees during this week's city council meeting....

City church marking 150 years

Decatur Daily Democrat:

It was 1860, the year Abraham Lincoln was first elected president and the year before the Civil War began.
That's also when Zion United Church of Christ — at 315 N. ...

Area farmers watching corn during one of most critical phases

Berne Tri-Weekly News:

One of the most critical, if not the most critical phase, of corn development is emerging in many fields as corn plants are either producing or working their way towards pollination.
Following a less-than-successful wheat harvest, and considering the fact that some farmers never were able to plant all of the soybeans they would have liked, this season’s corn crop is especially crucial to many for the success of the harvest season....

Friday, July 9, 2010

5th straight day with high in the 90s — plus 1.12 rain!

Decatur Daily Democrat:

Decatur racked up its fifth consecutive high in the 90s on Thursday — along with a inch-plus rainfall that signals the end of the latest heat wave....

Geneva unlikely to recoup loss

Decatur Daily Democrat:

Just one day after a resolution was unanimously approved by the Geneva Town Council at its July session to try to recoup some of more than $30,000 lost to the town....

Rainbow Lake couple finds creative artistry in China paintings

Berne Tri-Weekly News:

The Rainbow Lake home of Larry and Pat Elick resembles a China artistic exhibit on display in some well-cased art museum along a scenic body of water.
Even before entering the house, hand-painted placemats decorate the outside table on the couple’s quaint patio. Inside the home, China cabinets, beautiful hand-painted lamps, vases, and other high quality art figures line the walls of the couple’s spacious living room....

Thursday, July 8, 2010

YWCA honors 'good men'

East Allen Times:

FORT WAYNE — The Fort Wayne TinCaps held a pre-game ceremony during a recent home game to honor the men that were nominated as those who demonstrate traits which support the YWCA’s mission.

Nearly, 60 men were nominated by coworkers, friends and family as part of the YWCA’s 100 Good Men Project. Twenty of the nominees were in attendance and another 58 men signed the 100 Good Men Pledge during the game....

Piecemakers announce Heritage Days Quilt Show winners

Huntington County TAB:

The second annual Heritage Quilt Show, sponsored by the Piecemakers Quilt Club of Huntington, was held in conjunction with Heritage Days on June 19 and 20.

The show, held at Heritage Hall at Hier's Park, featured more than 90 quilts made by area quilters, ages 9 to 93.

Also on display were quilts that the club donates to the local hospital and soldier quilts given to returning area soldiers. Antique quilts and a quilting corner were also a part of the show....

Relief expected Friday

Decatur Daily Democrat:

After four consecutive days with highs in the 90s — and maybe a fifth today — Decatur-area residents can look forward to some relief.
Showers and thunderstorms are possible today as a wave of cooler air moves toward Indiana....

Vegetable oil erupts in blaze

Decatur Daily Democrat:

One of the most dramatic-looking fires in months occurred late Wednesday afternoon, but injured no one, along busy US 27 about a mile north of Decatur....

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Updated: Wednesday swimming classes a go at closed Northside Pool

East Allen Times:

FORT WAYNE — Those looking to beat the heat Wednesday at the Northside Pool will have to find another way to stay cool Wednesday.

A mechanical failure forced Fort Wayne Parks & Rec officials to close the pool, city officials said in a news release.

Wednesday's 5:15 and 6:05 p.m. Learn to Swim classes will go on as scheduled at Northside Pool, although the pool is closed for public swim.....

Indiana Tech to match new scholarship gifts

East Allen Times:

FORT WAYNE — Indiana Tech set aside $1 million to match new scholarship endowments of at least $10,000 over the next year.

The Momentum Multiplier started July 1 and runs through June 30, 2011.

To qualify for the program, minimum pledges are:

County wants look at its buildings, others

Decatur Daily Democrat:

Adams County officials have spent lots of money for many years to maintain and improve the various county government buildings.....

City officials get numbers...and more numbers

Decatur Daily Democrat:

Numbers dominated Tuesday night's Decatur City Council meeting. Numbers, numbers and more numbers. Health insurance numbers....

Geneva Council approves Dailey as school resource officer

Berne Tri Weekly News:

Scott Dailey, currently a reserve police officer in Geneva, was approved by unanimous vote at the Geneva council meeting on Tuesday evening to serve as the new school resource officer for the South Adams Schools.
Dailey will continue as a reserve officer with the Geneva police force, going on patrol when needed. Of the seven applications accepted for this position, five of the candidates passed the tests all applicants are required to take, and three of them went through the interview process....

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Gas leak forces Botanical Conservatory to close Tuesday

East Allen Times:

FORT WAYNE — The Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory closed Tuesday, as a precaution, Fort Wayne Parks & Recreation officials said in an afternoon news release.

The gas leak occurred during contractor work on a nearby construction project. ....

Indiana changes Move Over, Slow Down law

East Allen Times:

INDIANAPOLIS – Two changes to Indiana’s Move Over law took effect July 1.

Motorists must reduce their vehicle’s speed 10 mph under the posted speed limit if they cannot move to an adjacent lane safely. The updated law now includes utility service vehicles, the Indiana Department of Transportation said in a news release Tuesday....

Only a few tough choices as candidate filing wraps up

Huntington County TAB:

There will be no tough choices in the town council elections in Warren or Markle this fall.

In each of those towns, the number of candidates for town council is equal to the number of openings on those councils. There is no opportunity for additional candidates to join those ballots, as the filing deadline was June 30 at noon....

Charlotte Vera enjoying life

Decatur Daily Democrat:

It's "C" in Latin and "cent" in French.
That's how you write "100" in those languages.
Both Latin and French were taught in Decatur and Bellmont high schools by Charlotte Vera of Decatur, who has lived here more than 60 years and will turn a spritely 100 this October 1.
Vera, who was born in Jay County in 1910, is in good health and has lived in the nursing center at Woodcrest Retirement Community since 2003, when she fell and then made a nice recovery from a broken hip....

Monroe plans 2.25% raises

Decatur Daily Democrat:

The Monroe Town Council is planning to provide pay raises of 2.25 percent to town personnel in 2011.
At the council's meeting on Thursday night, the president of that body, Al Lehman, revealed the 2.25 percent figure and said it will be part of the....

Friday, July 2, 2010

Walter's dedication to library, community, earns her Samuel Jones Pioneer Award

Huntington County TAB:

Warren's recently retired librarian, Rosalie Walter, has spent many hours - both paid and unpaid - making the Warren Public Library an appealing place to be.

But her work didn't stop at the library doors. She also delivered boxes of books to schools and to people whose limitations kept them from getting to the library, says fellow Warren resident Mary Emma Holmes.....

Governmental offices closing Monday; other closings listed

Decatur Daily Democrat:

City Halls in Decatur and Berne will be closed next Monday in observance of the Fourth of July, which is Sunday.
No trash pickups will be held in either community Monday; ....

Monroe, DNR, Zurcher agree on land deal

Decatur Daily Democrat:

Three votes by the Monroe Town Council on Thursday night were required to begin a small land-swap process involving the town, Indiana's Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and Zurcher Tire....

Lichtenberger wrote poetic memories of World War II from his heart

Berne Tri-Weekly News:

When Adams County resident Lloyd Lichtenberger felt overwhelmed by the surroundings of World War II, he would often take out a pencil and paper and jot down the feelings of his heart.

“He was my buddy, the swellest buddy,
As nice a buddy as could be found.
Whenever I went, went with my buddy,
Then the Army moved us around.
My buddy and I were parted,
In tears we bid each goodbye.
I will never forget my buddy,
Whether he may live or die.”

Lichtenberger jotted down words of rhyme in describing the separation of a close friend while he was in England in 1944....

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Churches want to fill stadium in search of hope

Huntington County TAB:

A free three-day event next week designed to bring Huntington residents together and find hope, say pastors Jimi Staton, of New Life Fellowship Church, and Dianna Teusch, of First Brethren Church.

Encounter 2010 will be held July 8, 9 and 10 - Thursday, Friday and Saturday - from 7 p.m. to about 8:30 p.m. at Huntington North's Kriegbaum Field, and will feature songs, music and worship. Twenty-six churches from the county are involved.

"It's an opportunity to come out and gather as a community and to hear some good, encouraging words ... Life is still good," Staton says....

Huntington University hosts informational session on adult degree programs

East Allen Times:

HUNTINGTON — Huntington University’s EXCEL Adult Degree Programs will host an information session in Fort Wayne from 6-7 p.m. July 8, at Espresso Gallery Inc., 10357 Illinois Road.

The free event is open to anyone interested in the possibility of pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree. Tonya Horvath, admissions counselor, will be on hand to answer questions....

Two sea lions added at Fort Wayne Children's Zoo

East Allen Times:

FORT WAYNE — The Fort Wayne Children's Zoo's Sea Lion Beach has two young new additions.

Female sea lions two-year-old Legend and one-year-old Cassandra joined nine-year-old half-sisters Fishbone and Grits last week, according to a news release from the zoo....

Egolf was one of finalists for Arizona posts

Decatur Daily Democrat:

South Adams Schools Superintendent Cathy Egolf, whose contract will expire at the end of the 2010-11 school year and will not be renewed, was among the finalists earlier this year for a pair of similar positions at two Arizona public school districts....

Third candidate for sheriff

Decatur Daily Democrat:

For the first time in Adams County history, three people will be on the ballot in a fall election seeking the office of sheriff.
Sgt. Terry Nevil of Berne, a 32-year veteran of the Adams County Sheriff’s Department....

Wheel tax voted down at special Adams County Council meeting on Tuesday night

Berne Tri-Weekly News:

Saying “I haven’t heard anyone tonight saying they are for this,” Adams County Councilman Phil Wulliman introduced a motion to table the implementation of a county-wide wheel tax for at least a year at a special meeting of the Adams County Council Tuesday night.
After Councilman Lynn Selking seconded the motion, Council President Tom Kruekeberg called for a vote on the issue and all of the council members present, Wulliman, Selking, Eric Orr and Randy Colclasure, voted in favor of tabling the wheel tax. Council members Kenyon Sprunger and Dennis Bluhm were not at the meeting.
The public meeting at Adams Central Tuesday night was attended by about 35 people and began with Adams County Auditor Bill Borne explaining that the highway department was entirely funded by various gasoline taxes and registration fees, but was not supported at all by property taxes....