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April 5, 2018
What’s going on in ’Busco? By Nicole Minier nminier@kpcmedia.com
CHURUBUSCO — Community members gathered for what became a lively, and in some cases contentious, Town Hall meeting with the Churubusco Town Council and Chamber of Commerce last week. The meeting was led by Chamber President Kevin Rothgeb, who addressed several topics with the council — annex-
ation, utility services for expansion and housing development. Overall, those present discussed how to grow the town, in light of Smith-Green Community School’s referendum, which will be on the primary election ballot in May. “A lot of progress has been made over the past five years, but there’s more work to be done,” said Rothgeb. “We’re either going to get the funds
Not enough, say community leaders
NICOLE MINIER
Community members want to see new housing to encourage young families to move to Churubusco. Thresher’s Ridge is one subdivision in Churubusco that has seen growth in recent years. The subdivision just completed its fourth phase of construction and is looking to add a fifth phase.
for the schools or now. The only solution to this problem (in the long term) is growth. How can we
move forward?” Annexation “It’s not the word a lot of people like, but it’s how
we grow communities,” Rothgeb said of annexation. See BUSCO, Page 2
Going the distance
232 W. Van Buren St. #101 B Columbia City, IN 46725
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The Whitley County track meet was held in Churubusco last week. Columbia City won both the boys and girls meets. Read more on this week’s sports pages. At left, Columbia City’s Noah Judd and Jon O’Dell exchange the baton in the 400-meter relay.
260-482-8503 NEWS IN BRIEF City to begin limb pickup next week
INFORMATION INWhitley County 123 N. Main Street, Churubusco, IN 46723
Telephone: (260) 693-3949
Vol. 2 No. 14
Chamber preps for annual S. Whitley garage sales CONTRIBUTED SOUTH WHITLEY — The Whitley County Chamber of Commerce & Visitor’s Center is once again preparing for the annual South Whitley Community Garage Sales Friday and Saturday April 27-28.
In addition to supporting the effort to regionally promote the event, the Chamber is offering opportunities to businesses and individuals across Whitley County to get involved. “Each spring, we look forward to the South
Whitley Garage Sales,” said Jennifer Romano, Whitley County Chamber of Commerce & Visitor’s Center executive director. “This two-day event is incredibly important to South Whitley because of how many people and dollars it brings to town.
Vote May 8, 2018
Barbara Hohenstein County Commissioner District 2
Those dollars, in the hands of local residents, are spent buying meals in local restaurants, with local merchants, at fundraising booths and in support of South Whitley area residents. The economic impact of this event is significant.”
She added that the more people who participate means a bigger financial win for businesses, nonprofits and residents of South Whitley. A limited number of prime booth rental spaces See SALES, Page 2
“For the safety and health of all Whitley County residents.”
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KPC News Service COLUMBIA CITY — The City of Columbia City will resume its monthly limb pick-up starting this month, running monthly through October. The city requests residents have their limbs to the curbs by the following dates: April 9, May 7, June 4,
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A2 • INwhitleycounty.com
BRIEFS from Page 1
BUSCO from Page 1
July 9, August 6, Sept. 4 and Oct. 1. Limbs should be out and ready for pickup by 7 a.m. Limbs are to be placed along the curb in front of your property. Do not place limbs in the roadway. Limbs will not be picked up from alleys. Guidelines are as follows: Piles may not exceed a pickup trucksize load; limbs and branches can be up to 4 inches in diameter; bushes (without roots), will be collected. What’s not acceptable? • Piles that exceed a pickup truck-size load. • Brush from fence-row clearing. • Whole trees, logs and limbs. • Branches left from contractor-provided tree removal. • Grass clippings, leaves and garden debris. • Alley pickup. Those with questions can contact Kelly Cearbaugh, street department superintendent, at 248-5115, extension 2721.
In Churubusco’s Stellar Communities grant application and the town’s Comprehensive Plan, one of the biggest challenges noted is expansion and annexation. Along U.S. 33, John Kreiger Drive and McCoy Drive are the town limits. An annexation on the north side of Churubusco could incorporate businesses, and add $2.24 million in assessed value ($1 million in commercial property). On the south side of Churubusco, anything south of the Magic Wand is not part of the town’s corporate limits. Rothgeb questioned the council: “What are we doing to get there, and how do we get there?” Council President Frank Kessler responded, explaining the difficulty in annexing areas that don’t have 100 percent support from property owners. He explained there are two feasible ways to annex: super voluntary and voluntary. In super voluntary annexation, all landowners within the territory agree and request to be annexed. “Even that takes some time,” Kessler said. In voluntary annexation, a majority of the landowners in that territory are open to being annexed. “That takes longer and there are more hearings — more red tape involved in getting that done,” Kessler said. “To annex an area where a majority of the landowners object, it is practically impossible at that point.” In recent years, the down had a feasibility study on annexing the area south of town. The cost would be $4.1 million to provide town services to areas annexed, which is required by state law. “Financially we couldn’t afford to do that,” Kessler said. “It’s not just providing utilities, the town has to provide all services — street lights, maintenance, storm water handling — all the things
Salvation Army’s sock drive extended KPC News Service COLUMBIA CITY — The Salvation Army of Whitley County extended its “Sock it to Us” drive. The sock drive will continue through the month of April. Socks will be given to students in Whitley County’s schools. To donate, drop off new socks in the laundry baskets at the Whitley County Salvation Army Office, the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce office, the Woodlands Senior Center and at Shoe Sensation, which is offering a 20 percent discount on all socks purchased for the sock drive.
that go along with being in town.” Councilman Mark Pepple agreed that annexation is important, but wants to have “good money management.” “When we’re talking about our resources, there is limited money. The last think you all want is for taxes to be increased,” Pepple said. Councilman Bruce Johnson concurred. “We don’t have that type of money,” Johnson said. Johnson believes the most logical places to annex to see more immediate results in terms of the school referendum would be in areas to the north and west of town, where there is potential for housing construction. Ultimately, town leaders want to see population growth, especially for young families who may bring their children to the school district. If the referendum does pass, town leaders want to see growth by the end of it’s term — eight years. “I’m talking about undeveloped areas to the north and west,” Johnson said. “Eight years, when we’re talking about adding residences and houses, is not a lot of time. Annexation could take years. We could be talking three to four years down the road before we have any noticeable change.” Community member Miles Wilson questioned other ideas, such as potentially annexing 100 acres of land, which could support 50 homes. Council members said there is a developer speaking with a current landowner about such an idea, but the two are in negotiations. “We have a plan to move forward if and when that occurs,” Kessler said. Staying within the budget “Why is that $4.1 million (south annex) too expensive?” asked Pat McGuire, leader of the
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NICOLE MINIER
About 60 people were present at a Town Hall meeting with the Town Council and Churubusco Chamber of Commerce last week at the Masonic Lodge.
political action committee in support of the school referendum. “To me, that’s almost chicken feed when looking at the big picture.” “We’re dealing with the same thing the school is,” Pepple responded. “One thing we’ve been tasked with is to keep taxes low, that’s what we’re trying to do and still get projects done. “It’s not right to say we can do all these projects tomorrow and $4 million is chump change.” “We are almost at crisis mode,” McGuire responded. “We can’t say something costs too much. Let’s address the issue.” “We are, that’s why we’re here,” Pepple said. “I’m not going to put the town in crisis mode, I’m coming to you telling you we don’t have the money.” Pepple argued that the school is important to the town, just as the town is important to the school, and that it wouldn’t be “fiscally sound” to take on a project like that. The town would need to take out a bond, adding on to the two bonds it already has — one will be up in 2023 and the other in 2027. “The problem with getting another bond, it would affect our bond rating. It would also affect our water and sewer rates — we would have to have more reserves on hand,” Kessler said. “I don’t want to be a Debbie Downer, we have always found ways to still seek funding,”
Pepple said. “Madalyn (Bartl, clerk-treasurer), has been aggressive with grant processes and finds ways to bring funds to our community.” However, with most grants comes a community contribution — sometimes it is 20 percent and sometimes projects are funded 50/50 — half by grants and half by the town. “If we get a $1 million grant, we could have to put up $250,000 for the project,” Johnson said. “Sometimes the grants come at a cost.” “We have to live within our budget,” Kessler said. ‘We’ll just die’ Rothgeb, who works for PNC Bank, said he fears the future of businesses if the schools continue to lose funding and experiences enrollment decline. “If something happens with the school, we’re going to lose businesses,” Rothgeb said. “I’ve seen my company consolidate branches in small communities just like this. If we lose citizens, we’re losing students.” Rothgeb said he frequently encounters young individuals moving away from Churubusco. “It’s difficult to send a wire transfer to watch another couple buy a home in another community,” Rothgeb said. “If we lose these people and lose their kids and the school — property values will go down, businesses will close. We’re all teetering.” Rothgeb said the
If you are unable to attend, donations may be sent to P.O. Box 111, Albion, IN 46701.
community is “on the clock,” and others agreed. “Without the schools we’re in huge trouble — we’ll die — we’ll just die,” said community member Roger Hettinger. Housing The median value of homes in Churubusco is $99,000. Only 10.3 percent of homes are worth more than $150,000. Comparatively, in Huntertown, 38.7 percent of homes are valued at $150,000 or above. The national average is 49 percent, and Whitley County overall is at 38 percent. Rothgeb asked the council what it is doing to bring in higher-priced homes in the $150,000$175,000 range. The new homes in Thresher’s Ridge are in that price range, but most are being purchased by older residents, not young families that would bring new students to the school. The average age of residents at Thresher’s is 65 years old. Quality of life amenities, such as the Youth Foundation’s new playground equipment that will be installed this year, are attractive to young families, but there’s a major roadblock. Several residents spoke up that they have friends who want to move their families to Churubusco, but there are no housing options. See BUSCO, Page 5
SALES from Page 1 along Mulberry Street will be available on a first come, first served basis for $20 for one day or $25 for both days. The spaces are 10-by-10 foot and can be used for fundraisers, food vendors, craft
vendors, personal garage sales and more. Located in a desirable, high traffic area, the booths are ideal for anyone wanting to participate in the annual South Whitley Community Garage sales. To reserve
FEATURING GREAT FOOD & DRINK FROM OUR SURROUNDING AREA PURCHASE TICKETS Tickets are $50.00 per person and can be purchased in person, by mail or online. To purchase tickets online, go to www.neincasa.net and click on CASA PALOOZA 2018 under the Events link.
Whitley County • April 5, 2018
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a booth space or request a booth form, contact the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce & Visitor’s Center at 248-8131 or email office@whitleychamber. com. Spaces sell out quickly. Event sponsorships are also available for $75, ensuring great visibility for your business, organization or cause. For information about the limited sponsorship opportunities, contact the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce & Visitor’s Center at 248-8131 or email office@whitleychamber. com.
INwhitleycounty.com • A3
Whitley County • April 5, 2018
Experience of the future Grand opening planned for McDonald’s new kiosks By Nicole Minier nminier@kpcmedia.com
NICOLE MINIER
Dick Littlefield poses with Churubusco’s McDonald’s new ordering kiosks.
CHURUBUSCO — Dick Littlefield is bringing Churubusco’s McDonald’s into the future. In what McDonald’s has dubbed “the experience of
the future,” the restaurant now has futuristic kiosks and table service for customers who dine inside the restaurant. “We’re only the second in the Fort Wayne area with kiosk table service,”
Littlefield said. When a customer enters the restaurant, they can choose to go up to the register and order as usual, or order their own meals through the kiosk. If the customer chooses
the kiosk, they place their order, pay by credit or debit card, take their drink cup and pick up a table tent. A monitor shows McDonald’s crew members where the tent is located within the lobby, See KIOSK, Page 5
Bond reduction denied for woman accused of escape By Bridgett Hernandez bhernandez@kpcmedia.com
Whitley County Circuit Court Judge Matthew Rentschler denied a bond reduction for a Columbia City woman charged with escaping from work release during court proceedings March 26. The Whitley County Adult Residential Work Release program provides a sentencing alternative for adult non-violent offenders. Offenders reside in the facility, leaving only for work, programming and approved passes, according to the program’s website. According to Jail Commander Sean Martin, the facility’s doors are not kept lock, both because of the community-based nature of the program and fire code. When an escape
does occur, Martin said law enforcement is immediately dispatched to the area to locate offenders who escape. Offenders who are convicted of escape aren’t allowed back into the program, he said. “The intent is to get them to be transferred back into society productively and successfully, but some people make these kinds of mistakes and end up back [in jail] for longer,” he said. Mary Finney, 27, of Columbia City, was charged with escape, a level-five felony, after allegedly walking out of the work release facility Feb. 21. According to court documents, Finney ran through the facility’s main entrance at 8:08 p.m. Kaylee Helvie, 24, of Fort Wayne, ran after
Finney shortly thereafter. Helvie was returned to custody Feb. 22, and Finney was returned to custody March 2. Whitley County Prosecutor D.J. Sigler argued that Finney’s bond amount was appropriate. “She is the definition of a flight risk,” he said. Rentschler agreed, denying Finney’s request for a bond reduction. Her bond stands at $100,000. She will appear in court again April 9. Helvie faces identical allegations and will appear in court again April 23. In other Whitley County Circuit Court news: A jury trial is set to begin July 11 for James T. Smith, 19, of Columbia City. He is facing charges of rape and sexual misconduct with a
minor, both Level 1 felonies, and criminal confinement, a Level 3 felony. The incident allegedly occurred Nov. 8 in Columbia City. According to a police report, Smith held a razor blade to the victim’s throat, forcing her to have sexual intercourse with him. A Level 1 felony is punishable by up to 40 years of incarceration. A jury trial is set to begin June 26 for Steven Slater, 64, of Columbia City. He is facing charges of rape and sexual misconduct with a minor, both Level 1 felonies. The incident allegedly occurred Sept. 16, 2017, in Slater’s home. According to a police report, the victim was allegedly provided alcohol until she passed out. When she awoke, she
allegedly experienced pain and was treated by the Sexual Assault Treatment Center in Fort Wayne. Slater’s DNA was later found to be present on 11 samples taken of the victim.
Yost was sentenced to 1.5 years of incarceration with 100 days to be served at the Whitley County Jail and the remainder suspended. Judge Rentschler also ordered Yost to obtain his GED.
Rhonda Wolfe, 51, of Columbia City, appeared in court for a pre-trial conference. She is charged with two counts of criminal confinement, level-three felonies; two counts of intimidation, level-five felonies; and theft, a class A misdemeanor. Judge Rentschler scheduled a jury trial for Wolfe to begin June 27.
Jordan Fairchild, 22, of Columbia City, appeared for formal sentencing after pleading guilty to dealing in methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine pursuant to a plea agreement. Judge Rentschler sentenced Fairchild to five years of incarceration with three to be executed and two suspended.
Jeremy Yost, 27, of Columbia City, pleaded guilty to domestic battery pursuant to a plea agreement. The court accepted the plea agreement and
Hearings for Michael Watson, Jeffrey Dammeier, Austin Reiff, Kenneth Williams, Brandon Eber and Dalton Anspach were moved to future dates.
WHITLEY COUNTY JAIL BOOKINGS KPC News Service The following people were booked into the Whitley County Jail:
• Devin Collins, 19, of Fort Wayne, was arrested March 23 by the Columbia City Police Department, charged with minor in possession of alcohol, possession of marijuana, possession of paraphernalia, maintaining a common nuisance, OWI per se and OWI controlled substance. • Samantha Faurote, 29, of New Haven, was arrested March 23 by the Columbia City Police Department, charged with public intoxication, battery causing bodily injury, disorderly conduct and strangulation. • Daniel Hofferberth, 58, of Churubusco, was arrested March 24 by the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, charged with OWI and OWI
per se. • Jessica Greenhagen Pollard, 18, of Mishawaka, was arrested March 24 by the Indiana State Police, charged with possession of marijuana, operating while never licensed, possession of controlled substance and trafficking with an inmate. • Dale Coffelt, 55, of South Whitley, was arrested March 25 by the South Whitley Police Department, charged with OWI and OWI per se. • Cody Stauffer, 29, of Fort Wayne, was arrested March 25 by the Columbia City Police Department, charged with OWI per se, OWI, disorderly conduct, criminal mischief, resisting law enforcement,
battery to an officer and public intoxication. • Sherman Richardson, 34, of Ricton Park, Ill., was arrested March 26 by the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, charged with possession of marijuana. • Lauren Garrertson, 26, of Albion, was arrested March 26 by the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, charged with violation of suspended sentence. • Susan Leslie, 48, of Columbia City, was arrested March 27 by the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, charged with OWI controlled substance, OWI per se, possession of marijuana, possession of paraphernalia
and possession of cocaine. • Amanda Sroufe, 38, of Silver Lake, was arrested March 27 by the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, charged with check deception. • Calvin O’Neal, 49, of Fort Wayne, was arrested March 28 of the Columbia City Police Department, charged with domestic battery and failure to register as a sex offender. • Zachary Hively, 18, of Columbia City, was arrested March 28 by the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, charged with strangulation, residential entry, leaving the scene of a property damage crash, domestic battery, unauthorized entry of a motor vehicle and criminal mischief.
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• Frank Daniels, 32, of Warsaw, was arrested March 20 by the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, charged with probation violation. • Jordan Miller, 24, of Culver, was arrested March 20 by the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, charged with failure to comply. • Derek Flenner, 25, of Mentone, was arrested March 20 by the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, charged with invasion of privacy. • Shandy Cherneski, 32, of Fort Wayne, was arrested March 21 by the South Whitley Police Department, charged with OWI and OWI per se. • Braiana Hall, 25, of Indianapolis, was arrested March 21 by the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, charged with failure to comply. • Laron Rose, 52, of Fort Wayne, was arrested March 22 by the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, charged with probation violation. • David Diaz-Ramirez, 20, of Servia, was arrested March 22 by the Indiana State Police, charged with operating while never licensed. • Collin Riddle, 21, of Peru, was arrested March 23 by the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, charged with OWI. • Ryan Hilton, 32, of Churubusco, was arrested March 23, by the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department,
charged with neglect of a dependent. • Steve Waid, 41, of Larwill, was arrested March 23 by the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, charged with resisting law enforcement and auto theft. • James Stroumbas, 22, of Orchard Beach, Maine, was arrested March 23 by the Indiana State Police, charged with possession of marijuana, possession of paraphernalia and maintaining a common nuisance. • Hannah Parks, 21, of Saco, Maine, was arrested March 23 by the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department, charged with possession of marijuana, possession of paraphernalia and maintaining a common nuisance.
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A4 • INwhitleycounty.com
Whitley County • April 5, 2018
Easter Celebrations
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PHONE (260) 693-3949 (USPS 009-385) Periodical Postage Paid at Churubusco, IN 46723 Nicole Minier, Editor
Articles appearing in the INWhitley County do not necessarily represent the views of this paper.
free paper for local businesses and residents, we do charge a mail subscription fee to those out of our area. This fee must be paid in advance and is as follows: InState $26 one year, Out-of-state $39 one year. You may also call our office during regular business hours to subscribe at (800) 717-4679.
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INwhitleycounty.com • A5
Whitley County • April 5, 2018
Columbia City man shot in Leesburg KPC News Service LEESBURG — A Columbia City man was shot in Leesburg Easter evening, according to the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department. Colby Kuczewski, 20, was allegedly in a
domestic dispute with Katheryn Wilcox, 20, also of Columbia City, at the Leesburg Gravel Pit, which is located south of School Street and east of State Road 15 in Leesburg. According to police,
the vehicle the couple was in became stuck in the gravel pit, and family arrived to assist with the vehicle. The domestic dispute continued after Buddy Kuczewski, age 70, arrived to help. Police say the dispute
CC named Tree City USA by Arbor Day Foundation Contributed COLUMBIA CITY — Columbia City is a 2017 Tree City USA recipient in honor of the city’s commitment to effective urban forest management, according to the by the Arbor Day Foundation. This is the city’s 24th time receiving the honor. Columbia City achieved Tree City USA recognition by meeting the program’s four requirements: a tree board or department, a tree-care ordinance, an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation. “Tree City USA communities see the
impact an urban forest has in a community first hand,” Dan Lambe, president of the Arbor Day Foundation, said in a statement. “Additionally, recognition brings residents together and creates a sense of community pride, whether it’s through volunteer engagement or public education.” Trees provide multiple benefits to a community when properly planted and maintained. They help to improve the visual appeal of a neighborhood, increase property values, reduce home cooling costs, remove air pollutants and provide wildlife habitat, among many other bene-
fits. Columbia City Mayor Ryan Daniel said, “Thanks to our outstanding tree board; electric department; my assistant, Theresa Green; and our citizens, our community continues to be a great example of urban forestry.” More information on the program is available at arborday.org/TreeCityUSA. The Arbor Day Foundation is a millionmember nonprofit conservation and education organization with the mission to inspire people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. More information is available at arborday.org.
“When you order it, they put it on the grill right then,” Littlefield said. “That’s a huge piece to this — the experience of the future.” The new way of grilling burgers calls for an additional need for employees in the kitchen as well. “People think we’re going to save labor by doing this, but that’s a fallacy,” Littlefield said. “The employees are very excited about it.” Employees began training on the new technology last week, and a grand opening will be held April 14, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., with a ribbon-cutting at 11 a.m. Churubusco High School’s band, show
choir and cheerleaders are expected to make appearances at the event, and Town Councilman Frank Kessler will cut the ribbon. There will be giveaways for customers using the new kiosks, such as a free Big Mac a week for a year, and a free McCafe drink a week for a year. The update is one part of many in McDonald’s move into the future. Churubusco’s McDonald’s has been offering mobile ordering and curbside pickup for some time. In the future, area McDonald’s may see delivery as it partners with Uber Eats. Littlefield said South Bend will soon be offering the service.
KIOSK from Page 3 and the food is delivered directly to the table. “It’s all digitized,” Littlefield said. Though some in the media have portrayed the kiosks as a replacement for employees, Littlefield said he actually had to hire additional employees since the installation. “We had to put more people on the floor,” Littlefield said. “We have to be out helping with the monitors and table service. We still have to have the register open.” Along with the new kiosks, the Churubusco McDonald’s has a new digital menu board in the drive-thru, and offers fresh quarter pounders — no longer frozen.
NICOLE MINIER
Table tents have new technology that allow crew members to know where to deliver food, based on a monitor in crew areas.
continued to escalate, and Colby allegedly took a knife from Buddy, then allegedly made threats to harm himself and others present. Buddy allegedly retrieved his 357 revolver and shot Colby in the left upper leg, according to
the Sheriff’s statement. Colby was transported to Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne for treatment of his injuries, and was listed in serious condition shortly after the incident. Wilcox was treated for minor injuries
at Parkview Hospital in Warsaw, and later released. The information was forwarded to the Kosciusko County Prosecutor’s Office for possible charges for the incident.
growth. Current usage does not tax the town’s water supply. One utility the town doesn’t control, but plays a factor in a young family’s considerations for moving to Churubusco is the internet. “If we want younger people to come in, we need internet,” said Green Township resident Susan Brandt. “I love Churubusco and my kids want their kids to go here, but we have to focus on internet and high speed internet.” Many agreed that the current providers are not cutting it. Frontier told several Churubusco residents that its at capacity and cannot take new customers at all. Current customers experience issues with their service.
chamber or school. This community has been asleep for 40 years — complacent,” Conrow said. “You’re dealing with the results of that now.” Conrow owns 35 percent of the town’s downtown businesses. “I’m struggling to determine the best use of these properties to benefit the town. Nobody has talked to me,” he said. “You have your work cut out for you. There are no silver bullets.” Conrow said no individual item — annexation, utilities, demographics — will be a quick fix to the issue at hand. “You can’t furnish a sewer to Circle drive, and you want to bring in 400 new families to somewhere that a landowner will give you a good price, a realtor will sell the properties and the town will foot the bill,” Conrow said. “You better start breaking it down and getting aggressive. It all has to happen together.” Rothgeb agreed — it doesn’t all fall on the town council. “You’re only three gentlemen and we have a whole town here,” Rothgeb said. Pepple hopes something beneficial came from the meeting — a call to action. “I’ll be disappointed if we walk away from this meeting and nothing happens. All of you brought great ideas. This is what we needed as a community,” Pepple said. “Now its time to not kick the can down the road.”
BUSCO from Page 2 “Have you worked with Ideal or others to provide incentives to build houses in the area?” Rothgeb asked the council. “Yes,” Kessler responded. One of the biggest issues preventing new development is the lack of land. Several property owners near the town limits aren’t interested in giving up their land. “I talked to Lancia during the Stellar grant work. They said one of the biggest things was they needed land and wanted it in town,” Bartl said. “They won’t develop unless they have utilities.” Utility services Growing the town will increase the burden on the town’s utilities. Excluding infiltration issues with the town’s wastewater system, the town appears ready to take on new residents when the time comes. “We’re aware of the infiltration issue and we’re on it,” Kessler said. “That’s Jeremy’s (Hart) number one task.” The town will be conducting smoke testing this summer to address the infiltration issues — water that should not be going into the town’s system is being processed and treated by the wastewater plant. “Part of the system is over 100 years old, there are a lot of moving parts,” Kessler said. “When there are heavy rains or a snow melt, it does tax the system.” As far as the town’s other utilities, such as water, it’s ready for
Community issue, not just council Toward the end of the meeting several people spoke up about the issue as a whole — the lack of growth in Churubusco does not solely fall on the town council. “It’s a community issue,” said Miles Wilson. “My question is, what can we do as a community to support the three of you and help get the momentum going in the right direction?” Dick Conrow, founder of C&A Tool, Churubusco’s largest business and one of Whitley County’s largest employers, offered his opinion on the situation. “It’s this community — not just the board,
A6 • INwhitleycounty.com
OPINION
CHEERS, JEERS & WHATABOUTS To submit to this column email the editor at nminier@kpcmedia.com.
CHEERS and a great big THANK YOU to all of the businesses and individuals that donated silent auction items for the Green Center United Methodist chicken and noodle supper held on March 3. You are so appreciated and without all of you, we would not have been as successful as we were. Thank yous go to Precision Outdoor, AG Plus, Eel River Golf Course, Shroyer’s Variety & Hardware, Be.You.Ty. Mark Hair Salon, Jill’s Vintage and Thrift Store, Sav-U-Mor, Coffee Place at Sav-U-More, Sheets & Childs Funeral Home, Watering Can, East of Chicago Pizza, 46 Graphics, Anytime Fitness, STAR Financial Bank, Luana Walker, Deb Hicks, Doug Claxton, Jane Kline, Mary Anna Leitch and Keith Kline. THANK YOU from Faith Christian Academy to the wonderful folks of Columbia City for their incredible support at our Annual Fish and Tenderloin Fry on
Saturday, March 3. It was a great success. Thanks to the generosity of those who attended we were able to raise a little over $2,600 for the programs at FCA. We also thank all of the churches of Whitley County that encouraged their members to attend and published the announcement in their newsletters and bulletins. A special thanks to the news outlets of Whitley County who helped to make sure we all knew about the fry. Thanks to the following merchants who donated supplies: Big G’s Sports Café, Brevin’s Downtown Eatery in Churubusco, Dairy Queen of Columbia City, Les & Marcy Gaerte, McDonald’s of Churubusco, Pizza Hut of Columbia City and Teghtmeyers Ace Hardware. CHEERS to the Churubusco Rotary Club for funding the new scoreboard on Diamond 1 at the park. It is greatly appreciated. — Rick Krider, park supervisor
Learn pond, wildlife management at twilight event Contributed COLUMBIA CITY — Landowners with goals involving management of ponds for fishing or managing wildlife for conservation and hunting, are invited to an upcoming educational event hosted by Purdue Extension in northeast Indiana. Plan now to attend the Pond and Wildlife Management Twilight Meeting at Northeast Purdue Agricultural Center, NEPAC, 6:30-9 p.m. May 31. Topics covered under management of ponds include fish stocking, fish habitat and managing harvest. Mitchell Zischke, clinical assistant professor, fisheries and aquatic sciences, at Purdue University, will be the speaker. Jarred Brooke, Purdue Extension wildlife specialist, will cover wildlife management topics, including
managing field edges for wildlife, forest management for deer and turkey, and cover crops as wildlife food plots. There is no cost to attend the training, but registration is requested by May 29. To register, call Purdue Extension in Whitley County, 244-7615, with your name and preferred phone number. NEPAC is located at 4821 E. C.R. 400 South, Columbia City, Whitley County. From State Road 9, about three miles south of Columbia City or two miles north of State Road 14, take County Road 400 South to the east. NEPAC is four miles east on the north side of the road. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, contact John Woodmansee at 244-7615, or jwoodman@purdue.edu, by May 15.
Whitley County • April 5, 2018
What will it take to grow ’Busco? Churubusco’s Town Council and Chamber of Commerce held a Town Hall meeting last week to discuss growth, or lack thereof, in the town. We often hear of housing shortages and the need for more young families in the community, but how does a town make that happen? How does a threemember town council make that happen? It can’t. It is important to keep in mind that these council members have only served a set term or terms, and the entire growth of the community cannot fall on the shoulders of three
people — the community as a whole needs to embrace growth, embrace change and be prepared to put in the work to see results. Many asked the town council if the town is ready for growth, but is everyone else? Will there be push back to annexation? Will surrounding landowners be willing to sell their land? If large, new homes are built, will they be purchased? There is uncertainty as the community makes its way through these untested waters, but one
Our view
thing is for certain — the town cannot continue down its current path. Whether or not the referendum is approved, the town cannot sustain itself without making changes — starting now, not eight years from now, when the potential referendum tax collection will end.
A community with a dwindling population of young families can only sustain itself for so long. The school district can only handle so much of an enrollment decline. If the town loses the school, it will lose businesses and continue to watch its population fall. On the other hand, growth can only be forced to a point. If new houses are built but not purchased, will the town be in any better position? We don’t know the answer, but we know that changes need to be made collectively, and soon.
Mayor Pete channels JFK’s summons GREENFIELD — I suspect that deep in the mind of South Bend Mayor Peter Buttigieg rings the sounds of Jan. BRIAN 20, 1961, HOWEY and the voice the President John F. Kennedy on a cold and snowy day: “We dare not forget today that we are the heirs of that first revolution. Let the word go forth from this time and place, to friend and foe alike, that the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans – born in this century, tempered by war, disciplined by a hard and bitter peace, proud of our ancient heritage – and unwilling to witness or permit the slow undoing of those human rights to which this nation has always been committed, and to which we are committed today at home and around the world.” The torch, in Buttigieg’s mind, is ready for passage once again. For the past 15 months, Buttigieg has aspired to the national stage. He’s run statewide in Indiana, losing a 2010 race for treasurer against incumbent Republican Richard Mourdock. He has since won races in South Bend, the last two general elections by landslides. He looks to Indianapolis and, while not ruling out a run for governor, sees a
very popular Gov. Eric Holcomb, with no other Democrat taking steps for such a challenge. A second statewide defeat would bruise a stellar resume that includes a Harvard degree, a Rhodes Scholarship and a tour of duty in Afghanistan as an intelligence officer. In 2017, he waged a campaign for the Democratic National Committee chair about nine months after coming out as the most prominent gay Hoosier politician in history, just three years after Republicans tried to pass a constitutional marriage amendment barring gay nuptials. While he pulled out of the race on the morning of the vote, he attracted the attention of former governor, DNC chair and presidential candidate Howard Dean, former governor and chair Ed Rendell, and David Axelrod, a key architect in the rise and sustenance of President Barack Obama. Buttigieg has been turning up in Iowa, Kansas and now Politico reports that his PAC is active in Georgia, Arizona, Michigan and Colorado, all states that will matter greatly in 2020. He is preparing for a presidential run. “Go ahead, dismiss this generation. I dare you,” Buttigieg tweeted Saturday in the South Bend version of the March for Our Lives. “But I do think that people are looking for something new. They’re looking for something fresh and different. And I think that, as a party, we can’t just — first of all, we can’t only trot out people who go to
work in Washington every day, as representatives of the party.” The potential 2020 Democratic field potentially includes old warhorses like former vice president Joe Biden, Sen. Bernie Sanders and Sen. Elizabeth Warren (though she denies current interest). There are some new faces like Sens. Cory Booker and Kamala Harris of California. There is talk of New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo running as well as former Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick. There is no slam dunk. Buttigieg is just 36. He is the newest generation, the first Afghan campaign veteran to run, if he gets in. The first gay, as predicted by New York Times columnist Frank Bruni last year. He told Politico, “I think it’s maybe a sign of the times. I think it’s telling you that things are kind of wide open in a way that hasn’t been true in a long time. And I think it reflects the fact that we’re really living in a season for cities and for mayors.” In Politico’s Off Message podcast, he added, “There’s no going back. There’s no ‘again’ to be had. Things are going to be different. There was a liberal era in American politics that lasted 30 or 40 years, followed by a conservative era that lasted 30 or 40 years. And now, we’re on the doorstep of a new era.” In the television age of politics, Hoosiers who have looked in the mirror and seen a president include Sens. Birch Bayh and Richard Lugar, who actually got to New Hampshire; Sen.
Evan Bayh and former veep Dan Quayle, who announced but were quickly clipped by Barack Obama and George W. Bush; and others that included Sen. Vance Hartke (briefly), and Govs. Mitch Daniels and Mike Pence, who either couldn’t get the family imprimatur or were eclipsed by volatile politics and policy. A mayor of a 100,000-person city faces a daunting leap into national politics. Some may see it as a strategy to make the 2020 ticket. Senators, governors, secretaries of state, veeps and generals have moved to 1600 Pennsylvania, but not a mayor, at least directly. Presidents Andrew Johnson, Grover Cleveland and Calvin Coolidge had previously been mayors. Some believe that Buttigieg is really positioning for the ticket. Running as a veep nominee, he could find himself going toe to toe with Vice President Mike Pence. Ringing in the mayor’s mind is JFK’s inaugural oratory, “Now the trumpet summons us again.” Perhaps Buttigieg heard the cascading trumpets that defined the movie “Patton” as he surveyed the vast Afghan steppes while serving his country. Perhaps he hears them today as America watches a White House in chaos. — Brian Howey is publisher of the Howey Political Report, a weekly briefing on Indiana politics. Contact him at 317-506-0883 or at howeypolitics.com.
INwhitleycounty.com • A7
Whitley County • April 5, 2018
Schmidts marry at Sugar Grove
YESTERDAY One year ago Whitley County’s Emergency Management Agency created a hazardous response plan - something that was both required by the state and useful to local emergency responders. EMA Director Amy Biggs worked with her local emergency planning committee to identify all facilities in Whitley County that house hazardous chemicals. There were 39 such buildings. The Whitley County Country Quilters named their 2017 officers: Secretary Janet Reed, Vice President Susan McClish, President Caitlin Ackerman and Treasurer Waneta Bundy. Churubusco’s football program would be moved down to Class 1A for the 2017 season. Columbia City’s basketball would move up to Class 4A. 10 years ago A memorial service was held for Vietnam veteran and local American Legion member Charlie Waters Jr. Attending the event were members of Post 157’s American Legion Riders and the Patriot Guard. Waters was a member of both organizations. Alan Tio was named the new director of Whitley County’s Economic Development Corp. He replaced Dorinda Heiden who left the position about a year prior. Churubusco’s Planning Commission unanimously voted against a rezoning request by Schenher Real Estate. Jeff Schenher requested a residential area be rezoned as general business, transforming houses at South Main Street and Home Avenue into offices. The Churubusco Rotary Club welcomed Greg Veerkamp as its newest member by President Mark Coonrod. The Whitley County Historical Society planned a new event, “Antique Guns.” There were 30 guns on display, and community members were invited to bring their antique guns for the event and tell the story of the gun.
15 years ago Bill Claxton donated a carved eagle to Churubusco Elementary School. Churubusco students wrote letters to troops serving in the Iraqi War. Senior HANDS Foundation members Missy Shiriaev, Ryan Daniel and Josanne Begley assisted a child using a donated computer at the Lighthouse in Columbia City. The HANDS Foundation purchased the computer and donated educational software to be used by children who lived at the Lighthouse, a shelter for families who were in transition or had temporarily fallen on hard times. Dave Crabill was named the new sales/marketing representative at ALL Printing and Publications. 25 years ago Beautifying Main Street was a topic of discussion at local meetings. Officials spoke of “improving the image” of Churubusco at town council, chamber of commerce and other civic meetings. Always brought up for discussion was the need for new curbing and the “visual eyesore” the current Main Street curbs were. The cost to improve the area was estimated at $100,000 by conservative estimates. A youth farm safety program was planned at Whitley County Memorial Hospital. In the state of Indiana, there were about 4,800 farming accidents annually that required hospital treatment and about 14 percent involved children. Several Churubusco Elementary School students were honored with B.U.G. (Bringing up Grades) awards. Those students included: Braden Wentworth, Paul Huston, Adam Jasper, Matt Campbell, Leslie Shively, Stephanie Troyer, Tim Webb, Christa Byrd, Jason Gilbert, Crystal Fletcher, James Huston, Jennifer Gaff, Laura Parker, Shane Christileb, David Pranger, Brandon Chordas, Krista Bianski, Janeen Reed, Lance Gordon, Errik Polakovic, Katie Ruckman, Zachary
COLUMBIA CITY
FILE PHOTO
Spring break! These girls took advantage of their vacation in 1993 and the nice weather to go roller skating on the ramp in front of St. John Catholic Church on Main Street. From left are Amanda Hauser, 10, Nikki Kirkpatrick, 10, and Jennifer Hauser, 9.
Phend, Jolenna Egner, Toni Poynter, Andrea Elliott, Zach Jarrett, James Millikan, Spencer Teague, Jeremiah Hughes, Perry Childs and Andy Pranger. Churubusco’s Fire Department was selling house number signs to be located in the front of residences and allow for faster location of homes in case of emergency. The signs were $20 apiece, which included the cost of the post. 50 years ago A new and stronger ordinance controlling junk cars in the Churubusco town limits was passed by the Churubusco Town Board. Junk cars not removed within a 10-day warning period would be subject to a $50 fine. The board also passed an ordinance annexing an area to the south. A salary schedule for Smith-Green Community Schools was accepted by the board of trustees. A teacher with a bachelor’s degree would earn $6,150 in the first year and a maximum of $7,950 after 12 years. A family insurance plan with premiums of $81 per year would be offered by the district as well. Churubusco’s FFA placed first, third and fifth in a six-team field in the Whitley County crops judging contest at Columbia City. South Whitley had second and
fourth place teams. Larwill placed sixth. Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Ott, of Columbia City, celebrated their golden wedding anniversary with an open house at their home. They were married in 1918 at First Church of God by Rev. H. G. Herendeen. Another barber shop would soon open in Churubusco, located in the Central Building. The operate of the new shop would be Oliver Brown, who planned to move to Churubusco from Fort Wayne. Betty Burns of EtnaTroy Township assumed the position of temporary extension agent in 4-H club work at the Whitley County Extension Office. Her time would be devoted to home economics 4-H clubs and their leaders, coordinating with Margaret Rosentrader, home economics agent, and John Keller, youth agent. Paul Fry, president of the board of Whitley County Rural Electric Membership Corp. appointed Wayne Johnson to the position of general manager of the REMC. Shelton’s IGA hosted a remodeling sale. The grocery store would have new meat cases, new produce cases and new dairy products. A gallon of ice cream sold for 99 cents, cottage cheese for 49 cents per 2 pounds and cabbage was 10 cents per pound.
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April Elizabeth Rapp and Jamie Joseph Schmidt were united in marriage Saturday, Oct. 14, 2017, at 3:30 p.m. at Sugar Grove Church of God in Churubusco. The bride is the daughter of Dick and Ruth Rapp of Churubusco, and the groom is the son of Peggy Christman and the late Edward Schmidt and Tim Blackmore of Payne, Ohio. Pastor Timothy Grable officiated the ceremony. The musicians were pianist Brenda Trumbull, cousin of the bride, of Churubusco, and Laurel Wehr, flutist, niece of the bride, from Columbiana, Ohio. Kristy Husted, of Marshall, Mich., sister of the bride, was matron of honor. Dawn Wehr, also a sister of the bride, from Columbiana, Ohio, was a bridesmaid, along with Rachel Oberlin, Holly Pearson, Holly Guerrero, Brittni Stucker and Rachel Cartwright, all friends of the bride. Manda Schmidt, cousin of the groom, was another bridesmaid. Flower girl was Alyse Schmidt, cousin of the groom, from Payne, Ohio. Friend of the groom Dan Gordon, from Payne, Ohio, was the best man. Groomsmen were T.J. Blackmore (brother), Dough Mathews, Jarrod Childs
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
Jamie and April Schmidt
and Jorddan Childs, all friends of the groom. Brandon Schmidt, cousin of the groom, was also a groomsman. The ring bearer was Charlie Blackmore, cousin of the groom, from Payne, Ohio. Ushers were Shawn Rapp, of Churubusco, brother of the bride, Matt Shinabery and John Zartman. The reception was held at the Allen County Fairgrounds in Fort Wayne for more than 300 guests. For their honeymoon, the couple took a cruise to the Bahamas. They are making their home in Payne, Ohio. The bride is a graduate of Carroll High School and is employed as the financial bookkeeper for Mutton Power Equipment in Fort Wayne. The groom is a graduate of Wayne Trace High School and is employed as a member of management of Brindle Products in Grabill.
FREELANCE REPORTERS KPC Media Group is seeking freelance reporters to join its team of journalists covering northeast Indiana. KPC Media Group is a growing, successful, family-owned publisher of 18 award-winning daily, weekly and monthly newspapers focused on hyper-local coverage. Freelance reporters may cover local news, sports and/or feature stories. Send resume, cover letter and at least two writing samples to HR@kpcmedia.com.
A8 • INwhitleycounty.com
Whitley County • April 5, 2018
Daughter tries to recover token of father’s love By Garth Snow gsnow@kpcmedia.com
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
The Community Foundation of Whitley County donated $500 to start the new Churubusco Alumni account. Pictured is John Lefever, CFWC development consultant, presenting the check to 1965 CHS Alumni members Margaret Mitchell, Jera Kessler and Marilyn Rosentrader. Churubusco Alumni and Friends have officially opened an account at the Community Foundation of Whitley County that is accepting donations.
’Busco alumni group raising money KPC News Service CHURUBUSCO — Churubusco’s Alumni and Friends recently launched a campaign called “Give Back Busco,” to help with projects that improve the community. Margaret Mitchel, a member of the Churubusco High School Class of 1965, had a vision for an account in which members of the Smith-Green Community Schools community can apply to for assistance in projects that make the community a better place. The Community Foun-
dation of Whitley County donated $500 to start the account. Tax-deductible donations to the “Churubusco Alumni and Friends” are managed under the Community Foundation 501 C3 umbrella. Donors have an option of placing their money in one of two funds. The “permanent” fund holds donation money in the account, with only interest money being available for projects. In the “nonpermanent” account, the entire amount is available to use for See ALUMNI, Page 13
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Laura Freeland Kraynik remembers two constants about her late father. She remembers that Paul Freeland seemed always to be busy. She also remembers a gold mariner’s cross that the Navy veteran wore for as long as anyone can remember. She remembers growing up, and understanding why parents seem always to be busy. She remembers a tearful conversation in which her father promised the pendant to her. Kraynik, who lives between Fort Wayne and Roanoke, accepted that pendant from her mother after Freeland died in December. Kraynik wore the keepsake fondly. And then it was gone. Now she harbors the sadness of a second loss. She feels certain that someone found the pendant and that it’s now taking up space in a car console or a junk drawer. She wonders why anyone would keep an object that has no deeper meaning to the finder, but which embodies a parent and a relationship to her. Kraynik traces the loss to a frigid Jan. 19, when she wore layers of winter clothing as she entered the Kroger Marketplace on Coventry Lane in southwest Fort Wayne. “I was running into Kroger and I remember feeling like something fell inside of my sweater,” she recalled. She was wearing not only a sweater but a winter coat and a scarf and another necklace, and she didn’t hear the pendant fall. A few minutes later, at Salsa Grille, when she took off the scarf, the chain from the pendant fell. She and her husband, Larry, ran back to Kroger, she said, but the pendant was gone. She reported the loss to the Kroger courtesy desk, in case anyone should find the pendant and leave it at the desk. The store had no comment for this article. She filed a report with the Fort Wayne Police Department. Detective John Lyon confirmed that the depart-
ment has the report and that police picked up a DVD from a store camera. Lyon sent Kraynik’s photo of the missing pendant to about 50 “pawnshops and jewelry stores, secondhand stores — anybody that would take in stuff off the street.” Lyon said if anyone attempts to sell the pendant, police would forward the case to the Allen County Prosecutor’s Office for possible prosecution. “That’s obviously up to the Prosecutor’s Office,” he said. “We don’t operate on finders keepers.” While waiting for good news from those sources, Kraynik has taken her campaign to Facebook, where her story was shared 668 times in the first week. She has made fliers with her phone number and a photo of the pendant, and has posted those about the Coventry area. Finally, she took time to reflect on the last several frantic, sorrowful and bittersweet weeks. Her father, whose health was failing, had asked Kraynik’s daughter to move up her wedding so that he could attend. But Freeland died Dec. 8, and McKenna was married Dec. 23. Kraynik’s mother, Joanne, came to stay with Kraynik for a while after Freeland’s funeral, then returned to her home in Schererville. Then, on Jan. 8, Kraynik’s house caught fire. Everyone escaped. The pendant was safe. But Kraynik, her youngest five daughters, her husband and three dogs would spend the next several weeks in a southwest Fort Wayne motel. Freeland was a civic figure known throughout northwest Indiana. He served 12 years on the Lake Central School Board, served on the board of Campagna Academy — formerly Hoosier Boys Town. For 32 years, he was a teacher or principal in the Gary Public Schools. “When I was growing up … a young girl, my dad was not always available,” she said. “He was working with the Lions Club, the eye bank, Boys Town, the school board, working in
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
Paul Freeland wore this pendant for more than a half-century. His daughter hopes that whoever found it in southwest Fort Wayne will return it to her.
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
A flier on the community board at Starbucks in Coventry tells of Laura Freelend Kraynik’s search for a pendant that was worn by her late father.
Gary, working the football games, or doing this or that, always working for others. And he was always working odd jobs because being a schoolteacher and having a family you’re broke. So he wasn’t always available to me growing up, and I remember a lot of bitter feeling toward him. And it took my becoming an adult to appreciate [what he did].” She remembers his tiger’s eye ring, which has been lost. She remembers a plaid, tan shirt, which has been lost. She remembers that pendant. She assumes he wore it because he was a Navy corpsman serving with the Marines in Korea. He never told her about it. “My parents have been married for 52 years and my mom doesn’t remember him not having it,” she said. “It was a gold crucifix that had an anchor, and it has a captain’s wheel behind Jesus, prob-
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ably about an inch and a half from top to bottom.” “I have a compass tattooed on my arm and I have a very small anchor tattooed on my arm,” she said. “My dad was very opposed to tattoos and I got this when he first started getting sick. It’s a comfort to me. And it took me a long time to show him and I almost didn’t show him. And probably the time before last that I saw him was in the summer and I said, ‘Dad, I want to show you something.’ “He said, ‘That means so much to me.’ So he knew. So when I saw him at Thanksgiving is when he tried to give it to me and he said, ‘I want you to take this home.’ And I said no, because Mom was so visibly getting upset because she knew what it means when people start giving things away. I looked at my dad and I said, ‘I look forward to seeing you wear this for many more years’ and I said, ‘Dad, I’ll take it when you’re done with it.’ “ Less than two months later, the pendant had come into her possession and then into the possession of a nameless stranger. “I guess what upsets me most is the person who has it, it doesn’t mean anything to them,” she said. To her, though, it’s priceless. Kraynik asked anyone who has information about the pendant to contact her at (260) 402-6608. “Give it back to me,” she said. “I don’t even care if he doesn’t want to meet me. Take it to Kroger. Call me and tell me you’re taking it somewhere. I won’t even prosecute. I just want it back.”
INwhitleycounty.com • A9
Whitley County • April 5, 2018
CC wins county track meet
Churubusco a close second in boy/girl meet
By Nicole Minier nminier@kpcmedia.com
COLUMBIA CITY — Columbia City’s boys and girls track teams won the Whitley County meet at Churubusco High School March 28. The hosts placed second, and Whitko came in third in both the boys and girls meets. Columbia City’s girls scored 92 points to Churubusco’s 61 and Whitko’s 13. Columbia City’s boys tallied 75.83 points to Churubusco’s 58 and Whitko’s 32.17. Columbia City’s girls were highlighted by sprinter Macy Hill, who placed first in the 100-yard dash, 200-yard dash and 400-yard dash. Doug Hill, Macy’s brother, won the 100 and 400, and placed second in the 200-yard dash to Whitko’s Alex Wilson in the boy’s meet. Churubusco’s Audrey Zeigler won the 300-yard hurdles and placed second in the 100 hurdles to Columbia City’s winner, Mariah Schaefer. Churubusco’s girls won four of the five field events. Maggie Burrita took first in pole vault, Kate Schumann won long jump with a leap of 13 feet, 11 inches. Chassie Gallmeier won the shot put and discuss, with tosses of 32-11 and 96-9, respectively. Columbia City’s Nathan Mills had a stellar night, winning the 1,600- and 3,200-meter runs. Churubusco’s boys swept the hurdle events, with Mason Anderson winning the 110-yard hurdles and Sam Wood taking the 300 hurdles. Wood also won boys pole vault followed by teammate Brandon Kolvoord. Both boys vaulted more at least six inches higher than their nearest opponent, with Wood clearing 11-06 and Kolvoord clearing 11 feet. Columbia City’s Bryce Taylor won both the boys high jump and the 800-yard run. Columbia City’s girls placed first and second in all the distance runs. Lauren Keller won the 800 followed by Eden Oddou. Oddou won the 1,600-yard run followed by Keller. Bailie Brown won the 3,200-yard run followed by Ally Willson. Columbia City’s girls also placed first and second in high jump. Columbia City’s girls won all three relays, followed by Churubusco in second and Whitko in third. In the boys’ relays, Whitko won the 400-meter relay and Columbia City won the 1,600-meter and 3,200-meter relays. Churubusco’s boys placed second in the 400 relay, third in the 1,600 relay and second in the 3,200 relay.
PHOTOS BY NICOLE MINIER
Runners race to the finish in the boys’ 100-meter dash.
Columbia City’s Noah Judd won the boys long jump with a leap of 19 feet, 8 inches. Churubusco’s Brayden Simmons won the boys shot put with a heave of 48-01.5, and the discus with a toss of 168 feet, 11 inches. Other point scorers for Churubusco’s girls include: Brien Gross, fourth, 100 dash; Miranda Mallot, third, 400 dash; Mckenzie Tonkel, third, 800 run; Maggie Burita, third, 1,600 run, and third, 3,200 run; Allie Basinger, fourth, 1,600 run; Heidi Zeigler, third, 100 and 300 hurdles; Jade Rouch, third, high jump; Kilah Smith, third in high jump, third in shot put and second in discus; Audrey Zeigler, third, high jump; Madison Gaff, fourth in shot put and third in discus; and Callie Lemper, fourth, discus. Churubusco’s boys point scorers include: Mason Anderson, third in 100 dash and fourth in 200 dash; Gage Kelly, fourth in 100 dash; Brandt Parsons, second in 400 dash; Eli Lantz, fourth in 800 run; Sam Keily, third in 1,600 and second in 3,200; Bryce Kolvoord, fourth in 1,600 run; Sam Wood, third in 110-yard hurdles; Gage Kelly, third in long jump; Garrett Horn, third in shot
Girls hurdlers race down the track in the 100-meter hurdles event.
put and second in discus; Tanner Allen, fourth in shot put; and Reese Wicker, fourth in discus. Other Columbia City girls point scorers were: Kendall Longenbaugh, second in 100 dash and second in 200 dash; Eden Oddou, second in 400 dash; Abby Chapman, fourth in 100 hurdles and second in 300 hurdles; Hallie Willson, fourth in 300 hurdles; Maddy Hull, first, pole vault; Mariah Schaefer, first, pole vault; and Sarah Pepple, second in long jump. Columbia City boy point scorers were: Jon O’Dell, fourth in 100 dash; Noah Judd, third in 200 dash; Reece Spencer, third in 800 run; Landon Wakeman, second in 1,600 run and third in 3,200 run; Jacob
Wigent, second in 110 hurdles and third in 300 hurdles; Jacob Bolt, fourth in 110 hurdles and fourth in pole vault; Josh Miner, fourth in 300 hurdles; Christian Watkins, fourth in long jump; and Liam Hesting, second in shot put and third in discus. Point scorers for Whitko were: Breanna Keirn, third in 100 and 200 dashes; Kristina Slater, fourth in 200 dash and third in long jump; Ali Weeks, fourth in 400 dash; Jordan Courter, fourth in 800 run; Lizz Foutz, fourth in 3,200 run; Carissa Beck, second in shot put; Alex Wilson, second in 100 dash and second in long jump; Brett Sickafoose, second in 400 dash; Logan Busz, fourth in 3,200 run; Shad Ebbinghouse, second in 300
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Churubusco’s Brayden Simmons won both the shot put and discus in the Whitley County meet.
hurdles; Ronald Patrick, third in pole vault; and
Aiden Bechtold, fourth in pole vault.
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SPORTS
A10 • INwhitleycounty.com
Whitley County • April 5, 2018
Lady Eagles start season with 12-2 win By Nicole Minier nminier@kpcmedia.com
FORT WAYNE — Columbia City’s softball team beat Snider by the 10-run rule in the opening game of the Lady Eagles’ season, 12-2. “It was a great start to our season,” said Columbia City Head Coach Dan Weigold. The Lady Eagles took a 6-1 lead in the first quarter and continued adding to their lead, scoring one run in the second inning and three more in the third, while holding Snider scoreless. The Panthers scored in the bottom of the fourth, but Columbia City tallied two runs in the fifth to finish off the game 12-2. The Eagles recorded 14 hits to Snider’s six, and only had one error to Snider’s three. Brayden Lickey went 3 for 4 at-bat, including
NICOLE MINIER
The Lady Eagles have three seniors, from left: Anna Weigold, Allison Conrad and Ciarra Ivy.
a home run, a triple, a single, two RBIs and scoring three times. Bella Ross also went 3 for 4 with a home run, two base hits and two RBIs, scoring three times. Hayley Urban had two singles and scored twice, and Delaney Stahl had a double, a walk and an RBI.
Other key contributers were Allison Conrad with a run, a single and an RBI; Felicity Clawson with a single and an RBI; Laren Moon with a double and Ciarra Ivy with a run and a double. “All 12 players contributed in this win,” Weigold said. Anna Weigold pitched
NICOLE MINIER
Columbia City’s 2018 Lady Eagle softball team.
three innings and tallied four strikeouts, gave up three hits and one earned one. Brooke Ebersole pitched the final two innings, giving up three
kits and no earned runs. Coach Weigold is pleased with the win, considering the Lady Eagles’ preparation was limited due to only
having three outdoor practices prior to the opener. “I’m very proud of our team on how they responded,” Weigold said.
Tennis team grows; Stanczak building a program By Nicole Minier nminier@kpcmedia.com
COLUMBIA CITY — Things are looking up for Columbia City’s girls tennis team. Last year, half of the Lady Eagles’ roster consisted of new players. The squad didn’t lose any players to graduation and increased in size this season. Phil Stanczak, who is in his second year as head coach of the girls tennis team, looks forward to continuing to build the team. “The team has increased in size from 15 to 20 this year, which is always important in building a team,” Stanczak said. “This year we have been really
NICOLE MINIER
Columbia City’s senior tennis players are, from left: Hannah Behm, Bailee Yount, Kelci Gilbert, Lydia Morgan, Erin Wight and Jayma Acres.
focusing on stroke fundamentals to improve our game play and hopefully our win percentage.” The Lady Eagles ended the season on a high note last year, with a doubles team advancing out of
sectionals to the Culver regional. “Our biggest goal this year is team fundamentals — to keep the ball in play to give themselves the chance to win,” Stanczak said.
NICOLE MINIER
Columbia City High School’s 2018 girls tennis team
FOLLOW WHITLEY COUNTY SPORTS Thursday, April 5
Friday, April 6
Saturday, April 7
Monday, April 9
Tuesday, April 10
Wednesday, April 11
No events scheduled
No events scheduled
Whitko baseball double header at Bluffton, 11 a.m.
Columbia City baseball at Wayne, 5:30 p.m. Columbia City softball hosts Marion, 5 p.m. Churubusco baseball at Carroll, 6 p.m.
County golf match at Eagle Glen, 4:30 p.m. Columbia City softball at Wawasee, 5 p.m. Columbia City tennis hosts Norwell, 5 p.m. Columbia City track hosts East Noble, 5 p.m. Churubusco baseball at Fairfield, 5 p.m. Churubusco softball at Fairfield, 5 p.m. Churubusco track hosts Angola, 4:45 p.m. Churubusco tennis hots North Side, 5:15 p.m. Whitko softball at Northwood, 5 p.m. Whitko track hosts Tippy Valley and North Miami, 5 p.m. Whitko baseball hosts Wawasee, 5 p.m.
Columbia City softball hosts Garrett, 6 p.m. Columbia City tennis at Manchester, 5 p.m. Churubusco softball at Manchester, 5 p.m. Churubusco baseball at Canterbury, 5:30 p.m. Whitko girls tennis hosts Maconaquah, 5 p.m. Whitko softball at West Noble, 5 p.m.
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Submit your sports stories or photos to Nicole Minier at nminier@kpcmedia.com
SPORTS
INwhitleycounty.com • A11
Whitley County • April 5, 2018
Large track squad ready for 2018 By Nicole Minier nminier@kpcmedia.com
COLUMBIA CITY — In his second year as head coach of the Columbia City boys track team, Ryan Trieschman is looking ahead to another exciting season with a strong squad. Last year, the team was 7-0 in regular conference meets and placed third overall in the Northeast 8. The Eagles won the Bulldog Invite and Concordia Relays, and also finished fifth in the Goshen Relays, second in the Whitley County meet and fifth in the Goshen Sectional. The Eagles return a large group from last year’s team. In total, there are 50 athletes on the squad. “Each one plays an important part in the development of our program,” Trieschman said. Leading the squad as senior is Noah Judd, long jump regional qualifier. In the junior class, the Eagles have returning eighth-place state medalist Alex Scharpenberg in high jump; Jacob Wigent in the hurdles; Liam Hesting in shot put and discus; and Doug Hill in sprints. Bryce Taylor is a sophomore and was a regional qualifier in the 800-meter run. “At this point in our training, the kids are starting off with times and distances that they ended last season with,” Trieschman said. “It is so encouraging to see their growth and hard
NICOLE MINIER
The 2018 Columbia City boys track team has about 50 athletes on the squad.
work pay off so early in the season.” The success of the returning stars is encouraging, but not to say the Eagles didn’t lose several strong seniors to graduation last year. “We had great senior leadership on the team last year from all of our seniors,” Trieschman said. The Eagles had seven seniors who were Academic All-State or Academic All-State Honorable Mention. The team lost some big point-earners in Tim Hearld, Matt Kennedy, Heath Atkins, David Osborn, Dyson Redding and Jake Matteson. Atkins went on to compete for Huntington University in track and field. Trieschman expects
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NICOLE MINIER
NICOLE MINIER
Key field event athletes, from left, are: Noah Judd, Jon O’Dell, Jacob Bolt, Alex Scharpenberg, Christian Watkins and Liam Hesting.
the team to take after the example of last year’s senior class in being strong performers both on the track and in the classroom. “Our young men do a wonderful job both in the classroom and in their events,”
YOUR
Trieschman said. “Leadership is our strength.” The team has about 10-15 athletes who have never competed in track at the high school level who joined the team this year. “Some of them will fill roles vacated by
JOB
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A division of
Key athletes in running events include, from left: Nathan Mills, Landon Wakeman, Bryce Taylor, Doug Hill, Jacob Wigent and Frank Planchon.
last year’s seniors,” Trieschman said. Some newcomers Trieschman expects to score varsity points this season are Jacob Bolt, Austin Bolt, Braden Baker and Frank Planchon. Overall, many pieces are falling into place and the squad has a
bright season ahead. “Our kids want to get better every day,” Trieschman said. “They get done with their workout and ask for more. They don’t want to leave the weight room. I have not seen that from athletes in a long time, and it is great.”
A12 • INwhitleycounty.com
SPORTS
Whitley County • April 5, 2018
Local coaches keep up with football safety By Travis Stahl for IN|Whitley County
COLUMBIA CITY — Indiana high school football teams across the state continue to see the number of participants decline. Part of that decrease in kids playing football can be traced to the specialization of athletes who want to concentrate on one sport. But some of it also can be linked to all the research and information available to parents now on the risk of head trauma related to football. In reality, thanks to new technology and better coaching, high school football might actually be more safe now than it ever has been in the past.
Football has had a bad reputation lately as more and more information comes out about the damage caused to the brain from repeated head injuries. With better equipment for players available now than in decades before, those head traumas are being lessened. Additionally, coaches are putting more of an emphasis at a young age to teach correct form tackling and eliminate the use of a player’s head as a tool for making a tackle. “I believe football is safer because of the steps that the IHSAA and Indiana Legislative Teams are doing to change some rules,” said Columbia City head football coach Brett
Fox. “Each year, I am taking different courses dealing with equipment fitting, concussions, heat illness, sudden cardiac arrest and proper tackling. All these things are evolving and we are evolving with them.” Columbia City’s football program is going one step further than some other programs. The school board approved the purchase of adding InSite technology to the Riddle helmets players wear. The technology allows coaches and trainers to track and measure the impact of hits during a game. This would help Fox and the coaching staff monitor the hits players sustain during a game and catch the signs
and symptoms of concussions much sooner. Whitko football coach Jeff Sprunger agreed saying the changes to coaching techniques and equipment have changed the game. Whitko received a grant for the technology last season. “The technology of the equipment has changed greatly over the last couple of decades,” said Sprunger. “Also, techniques for tackling and playing the game have changed. The state has put in many rules and regulations on practices times and lengths.” In Indiana, teams can no longer have two-a-day practices during the summer with full-contact. The state of Illinois
proposed a law that would ban kids under the age of 12 from participating in tackle football. These measures limit the amount of contact a player has unnecessarily through practice. But Fox added the better coaching is also making a big difference especially in younger players. “Being able to have USA football teaching the same techniques through all levels is helping our coaches of younger players to have access to resources and drills that they can implement into their own practices,” said Fox. Another factor that has reduced the risk of injury in football is the character of the players in today’s
game. In years past, there was a more aggressive mindset to playing football that isn’t prevalent among players in today’s game. “I would say the aggression has changed drastically. Students aren’t nearly as aggressive now,” said Sprunger. Football is a sport of collisions. Changing technology and coaching techniques have made the game safer than ever before. Concussions are going to happen in football just like they will in soccer, basketball or wrestling. But with changes in place to help lesson the frequency of those big hits in football, kids today aren’t being injured like they were in the past.
Erwin breaks HR record Lady Eagles start the season 1-1 after win over New Haven By Nicole Minier nminier@kpcmedia.com
CHURUBUSCO — Two games into the season, Churubusco softball stand-out Abigail Erwin broke a school record. Erwin set a new home run record after she smacked her 12th career home run over the fence in the Lady Eagles’ game against New Haven last week. Erwin broke the record previously held by Taylor Amber, who is now the softball coach at Central Noble High School. “Abi is probably one of the best hitters in the state,” said Churubusco head coach Phil Nicolet. Nicolet hopes Erwin will continue to hit home runs, but fears she will often be walked by pitchers who are familiar with her talent — just as she was walked by New Haven after hitting her homer. The Lady Eagles came out swinging in the opening innings against New Haven, taking a 3-0 lead in the first
inning, 7-1 advantage in the second frame and tacking on five runs in the third to lead 12-1. New Haven scored one more run in the fourth inning, but Churubusco added two more to its side of the scoreboard, ending the game in the fifth inning by a score of 14-2. The Lady Eagles had 13 hits to New Haven’s two. Both teams recorded two errors. Breanna Baughman led the team in scoring with four runs, followed by Erwin with three, Mariah Hosted with two and Brooke Nondorf with two. Other scorers were Katy Krider, Kurstin Clark and Melanie Geiger. Along with her three hits and home run, Erwin tallied six RBIs. Baughman recorded three RBIs, Nondorf had two, Darian Manth had two and Madison Simmons also contributed an RBI. Clark, Manth, Geiger and Hosted each stole one base apiece.
NICOLE MINIER
Freshman pitcher Kara Williams delivers a pitch in the Lady Eagles’ home game against New Haven last week.
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Kursten Clark gets a few words of advice from head coach Phil Nicolet before taking a turn at the plate.
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Churubusco head coach The win was a nice Phil Nicolet talks to rebound after the Lady Eagles’ opening-game loss stand-out Abigail Erwin, who broke the school’s to county rival Whitko, which returned many of its home run record against New Haven. players from last season’s semistate run. fourth and two in the fifth Churubusco fell 14-4 to the inning. Lady Wildcats on March 23. “Whitko is a very good Whitko scored five runs in team,” Nicolet said. “For our the first inning, three in the first game, our players we second and six in the sixth nervous. I thought we played inning. Churubusco scored much better against New one in the first, one in the Haven.” Whitko had 11 hits compared to Churubusco’s seven, and the Lady Eagles recorded four errors to Whitko’s two. The Lady Wildcats were led offensively by Augusta Garr, who was 4 for 4 at-bat, scoring three runs and batting in one RBI. Hosted and Erwin each recorded two hits for Churubusco. Erwin had two RBIs Increase your revenue with professional low-cost videos! and scored two runs of her own. Increase your website’s Google search traffic. Also recording RBIs were Use video to introduce your company or products, Manth and Clark. For Whitko, seven different provide video FAQs, news updates and training. players scored runs, including Garr, Reannon Hopkins (3), Post videos on your website and social media. Anna Ousley (3) and Ellie Snep (2). Hopkins led the team in RBIs with three, along with freshman Harley Bradley with three and Shi Bradley 260-426-2640 x3324 We make it easy and affordable. Get started today! with three RBIs as well.
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NICOLE MINIER
Brooke Nondorf takes a turn at-bat against New Haven last week.
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Kursten Clark takes a swing at a New Haven pitch.
Whitko’s Emalee Duggins had two stolen bases and Hosted recorded one. Snep led the Lady Wildcats on the mound, striking out
eight and giving up four hits. Churubusco freshman Kara Williams pitched for the Lady Eagles, recording one strikeout and 14 runs.
SPORTS
INwhitleycounty.com • A13
Whitley County • April 5, 2018
County Track Meet
Churubusco’s Brein Gross hands off the baton in the 400-meter relay.
PHOTOS BY NICOLE MINIER
Churubusco’s Mason Anderson charges ahead in the 110-meter high hurdles at the Whitley County meet in Churubusco last week.
Gage Kelly takes off after receiving the baton from teammate Joey Emenhiser.
Columbia City’s Liam Hesting warms up in the shot put event.
Columbia City’s Landon Wakeman paces the pack in the 1,600-meter run. He is followed by Nathan Mills, eventual winner, and Churubusco’s Sam Keily.
Columbia City’s Christian Watkins competes in the long jump at the county meet in Churubusco.
ALUMNI from Page 8 projects immediately. Checks can be mailed to the Community Foundation of Whitley County, 400 N. Whitley St., Columbia City, 46725. Mark in the
memo section whether the donation is for the “permanent” or “nonpermanent” fund. To learn more about the Community Foundation of Whitley County, visit
cfwhitley.org. The Churubusco Alumni and Friends encourage those interested to attend the next meeting, Thursday, May 24, immediately following
the Smith-Green Community Schools’ Eagle Garden Program, approximately 7:30 p.m., in the SGCS administration building. Those attending will have a voice
in deciding the format and leadership of the philanthropic organization that will continue to serve the Churubusco community for years to come.
Learn more by following “Churubusco Alumni & Friends” on Facebook, #GiveBackBusco on Twitter, or email churubuscoalumni&friends@gmail.com.
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Whitley County • April 5, 2018
Community Calendar 29
tled “From the Shadows of JFK: The Rise of Beatlemania in America.” • A spaghetti dinner will be held at West Point Trinity United Methodist Church, 5-7 p.m. at 4980 N. Etna Road. The meal will be provided for a free-will donation to benefit The Lighthouse. • Precision Outdoors & Rentals will hold an open house 8 a.m.-2 p.m. in Turtle Town Plaza, 8435 E. U.S. Hwy. 33 in Churubusco. The event will feature a live wood-cutting demonstration, one-day deals and giveaways. There will be free pulled pork sandwiches from 11 a.m. until supplies last. For more information, call (260) 693-6233. • Passages Inc. will host its 3rd Annual Spring 5K at Morsches Park. Registration begins at 7 a.m. and the race starts at 8 a.m. Participants may register early by visiting passagesinc.org/passages-5k. The cost is $20 for early registration or $25 for registration after April 6. The event is a chip-timed race, and begins at the park pavilion. Morsches Park is located at 1035 E. S.R. 205. There will be prizes for the top male and female and awards for age-group winners. • The First Annual Faith Christian Academy Trivia Challenge fundraiser will be held at Trinity Evangelical Presbyterian Church on Business 30 west of Columbia City. Registration begins at 6 p.m. and the questions begin at 6:30 p.m. Teams of no more than eight people can participate, with many teams from the different classes at Faith Christian Academy, preschool through eighth grade. The cost is $10 per team, and mulligan’s will be available for $1 a piece, but only one per round may be used.
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April 4
• The Churubusco Town Council will meet at 6:30 p.m. in Churubusco Town Hall on Home Avenue.
April 5
• Peabody Public Library’s one-day book sale is 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Proceeds will support the library. • Master Gardeners of Whitley County will hold its monthly meeting at 7 p.m. in Classroom B at Parkview Whitley Hospital. Bridget Johnson will speak about growing and using herbs. The public is welcome to attend this free, half-hour presentation. Johnson is considered as the “go to” person on the subject in the local Master Gardener club. Also as a reminder, the Master Gardeners’ Garden Walk of exemplary gardens is June 23. Tickets can be purchased at the Purdue Extension Office, 115 S. Line St.
April 7
• A rummage and bake sale will be held at Columbia City United Methodist Church, 605 Forest Pkwy., 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
April 10
• South Whitley Town Council will meet at 6:30 p.m. in South Whitley Town Hall. The council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. • Columbia City Municipal Board of Works will meet at 5 p.m. in Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall. The board meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. • The Columbia City Common Council meets at 6 p.m. in Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall. The council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month.
April 11
• Churubusco United Methodist Church will present a free seminar called “Aging in Place” 1:30-3 p.m. The seminar will give advice on how to make various modifications to homes so that residents can stay in them as long as possible. • Pierceton Elementary School will hold a kindergarten round up event 6-7:30 p.m. for new students and families to meet teachers, visit classrooms and meet new classmates.
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April 12
• The Whitley County Amateur Radio Club’s general meeting is 6-8 p.m. in Community Rooms A& B of the Peabody Public Library, 1160 E. S.R. 205, Columbia City. The program for the evening will be about grounding and lightning protection, presented by Ted Tahmisian, W9WT.
April 14
• The Ag Museum’s benefit breakfast is 7-10 a.m. at the museum. The breakfast includes scrambled eggs, pancakes, whole hog sausage and drinks. A free-will donation will be taken, and proceeds will help fund the new projects planned at the museum, which include the completion of the circle drive in front of the museum and opening the museum one day a week during the warm seasons. • A mini community art project is 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in the Churubusco Public Library parking lot. Using their thumbprints, Churubusco residents and guests are invited to paint “turtle shells” on the library’s new Little Library, which will debut in the Churubusco Community Park in summer 2018. Other activities include story writing, bookmark coloring and Little Library FAQ. The event, including snacks, is free and open to the public. All ages are welcome. • JFK and the Beatles at the South Whitley Community Public Library begins at 1 p.m. with a presentation by world-renowned Beatle scholar Aaron Krerowicz. The program is enti-
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April 18
• Kindergarten Round-Up for South Whitley Elementary School is 6-7 p.m. at the school. New students and families will have the opportunity to meet teachers, visit classrooms and meet new classmates. April 22
• Join Churubusco United Methodist Church as its celebrates the 50th anniversary of the merger of Methodists and Evangelical United Brethren denominations. The organ/ hymnal service is 8:15 a.m. and the praise band service is 10:30 a.m. A potluck lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m.
June
April 25
• Whitley County Chamber of Commerce will host a “Thanks a Bunch Lunch” for Administrative Professional Day at Eagle Glen Event Center. This event gives employers an opportunity to honor their administrative assistants, personal assistants, volunteers and others with lunch, door prizes and more. Tickets for this annual event are just $20 per person. To make reservations, contact the Chamber at (260) 248-8131 or office@whitleychamber.com. Deadline to RSVP is noon April 20. April 27
• The annual South Whitley Garage Sales are April 27-28. Sponsorships are $75, which helps to promote the event and provide additional restroom facilities in the town during the event. A limited number of booth rental spaces are available through the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce for $25 for one day or $35 for both days. The spaces can be used to set up a garage sale, sell merchandise, host fundraisers, sell food items and provide information to the community. For more information, or to reserve a booth space, send an email to office@whitleychamber.fom or call (260)248-8131. April 28
• Wine and Jazz will be held at the Old Train Depot in Pierceton, 6:30-9 p.m. The event is hosted by the Pierceton Chamber of Commerce, and will include a silent auction with items donated by the community. The Chamber will use funds raised for upcoming festivals, local parks and other town expenses. Tickets are available in advance for $30 each or $35 at the door. Email visitpierceton@yahoo. com or call (574)367-5069.
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April 29
• Churubusco United Methodist Church will honor all police, sheriff, firefighters, EMTs, first responders and other public service officers in worship at the “Blessing of the Badges” services at 8:15 and 10:30 a.m. Personnel are encouraged to attend and wear their uniform or bring their badge to worship. • Churubusco United Methodist Church will offer a free estate planning workshop and lunch 11:40 a.m. to 1 p.m. The workshop will cover developing a plan, what tools are available and how unexpected events might impact estate planning. May 7
• Churubusco United Methodist Church will offer a free seminar on personal finance 6:30-8 p.m. At “Personal Finance 101,” certified financial planner Brian Osner will review budgeting, insurance and financial jargon. All ages are welcome, but the program is geared toward younger parishioners. May 29
• The Columbia City Tree Board will conduct a meeting in the Mayor’s Conference Room of Columbia City Hall at 4 p.m. Items on the agenda include updates on grants and ideas from the Department of Natural Resources.
May 31
• The Pond and Wildlife Management Twilight Meeting at Northeast Purdue Agricultural Center is 6:30-9 p.m. Topics covered include fish stocking, fish habitat, managing harvest, managing field edges for wildlife, forest management for deer and turkey, and cover crops. To register, call Purdue Extension in Whitley County, 244-7615. NEPAC is located at 4821 E. C.R. 400 S. in Whitley County. For more information, contact Extension Educator John Woodmansee at jwoodman@purdue.edu. June 23
• Whitley County Master Gardeners will present a “Garden Walk” of exemplary gardens in Columbia City. Tickets can be purchased at the Purdue Extension Office, 115 S. Line St. For more information, call (260) 625-3313.
Ongoing
• The Churubusco Lions Club meets every second and fourth Tuesday of each month at Papa’s Place at 6:30 p.m. • AA and Al-Anon meetings Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m. at the Churubusco United Methodist Church. • A support group for families of children with special needs meets 3-5 p.m. on the third Saturday of each month at Choices & Changes, 360 N. Oak St., Columbia City. The meeting March 17 will focus on community supports. The topic for April 20 is grieving and growing. For more information, contact Chris Garau at (260) 255-0708 or Christy Garau at (260) 255-0707. • C3 Youth Group meets with youth pastor Brad Millikan 6-7:30 p.m. Sunday at Christ Community Church, 316 N. Main St. in Churubusco. Students grade 6-12 are welcome to join. • Churubusco Elementary School is registering all-day kindergarten students. Call (260) 693-2188 to schedule a registration time May 24 or 25 and a registration packet will be mailed to you. Students must be 5 years old by Aug. 1. The school is also accepting transfer students. • Churubusco United Methodist Nursery School is accepting registration for the 20182019 school year. Children should be 3, 4 or 5 by Aug. 1. Enrollment is $50 and monthly fees will be $80 for the three-day program (Monday, Wednesday and Friday). Morning sessions are 9-11:30 a.m. Afternoon sessions are 12:30-3 p.m. For more information, call the office at (260) 693-2154. • VFW Post 5582 hosts a fish fry the first and third Fridays of each month, 5-6:30 p.m. The post is located at 415 E. Chicago St., Columbia City.
A16 • INwhitleycounty.com
Whitley County • April 5, 2018
Eagles’ season begins April 10
NICOLE MINIER
Columbia City’s boys golf season begins April 10 with the annual county three-way match, this year hosted at Eagle Glen Golf Course in Columbia City. Pictured above is the 2018 Eagles golf team.
NICOLE MINIER
Columbia City’s golf team has three seniors who are expected to be key players this season, from left: Nick Decker, Spencer McCammon and Lawson Hahn.
Case For Smiles makes patients feel at home Columbia City’s Margie’s Place aids local chapter By Louis Wyatt lwyatt@kpcmedia.com
FORT WAYNE — Hospitals are no one’s favorite place, but a network of local volunteers is ensuring patients feel a bit more at home during their stay. The Fort Wayne chapter of Pennsylvania-based volunteer organization Ryan’s Case for Smiles has been brightening up children’s hospital rooms for nearly half a decade now — with businesses in Huntertown, Columbia City, Roanoke and Fort Wayne lending a hand. Case For Smiles (formerly ConKerr Cancer) was founded in 2007 to improve the quality of life of children and their families as they underwent medical treatment, and it remains the living legacy of its namesake, Ryan Kerr, who lost his fight with cancer 10 years ago. Originally started with
cancer patients in mind, Case For Smiles now uses bright, colorful fabrics to help all children feel more at ease in the hospital. Volunteers from around the country make and donate colorful pillow cases to the organization, which are distributed to children at hospitals across the country. The Fort Wayne chapter donates about 50 cases to Parkview and 80 to Lutheran each month, which are then distributed to inpatient, emergency and children’s oncology sections of the hospitals. “If you think about a hospital room, everything is very sterile and very white. It’s a little bit scary to children. … This is just something to break that up a little bit — give them a little bit of a sense of being at home,” Fort Wayne chapter coordinator Nikki DeRose said.
PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
Case For Smiles Northeast Indiana donates pillow cases to children staying in Fort Wayne’s hospitals in order to reduce stress.
According to the organization’s website, research indicates 20 percent of children hospitalized with cancer and 30 percent of their mothers suffer full symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder — rates comparable to those experienced by United States veterans serving since the Vietnam War. Something as simple as a pillow case can help reduce those effects. Pillow cases contain
everything from different colors to sports and Disney characters, so coordinators at each hospital can usually find the perfect fit for each child based on their personal interests, DeRose said. “They might come across something that’s just perfect for that kid, and then they bring it to them and it really excites them, so anything you can do to make children happier in a bad situation is kind of the goal,” she said. DeRose and another co-coordinator started the Fort Wayne chapter in 2013, first donating to just Parkview. When they contacted Lutheran, the hospital began using the colorful pillowcases to cover up the machines that deliver chemotherapy in order to make cancer treatment less scary for kids. Since its inception, the Fort Wayne chapter’s outreach has grown exponentially with the help of volunteers and local businesses. Case For Smiles has drop-off locations in Roanoke, Columbia City and Fort Wayne — as well as at Huntertown’s Chocolate
Thimble. The Huntertown chocolate and sewing shop recently hosted a Girl Scouts pillow case party and also takes donations, co-owner Jill Western said. “We have a lot of people up north that will drop off pillow cases there,” DeRose said. “Of course, you get to buy chocolate, so it’s a win-win.” Roanoke’s Fabric and Friends Quilt Shop is another drop-off location, which hosts an annual pillow party to raise donations. The first event yielded somewhere around 700 pillow cases, DeRose said. “From that, we received a lot of volunteers and people who have stuck with us,” she said, adding that more volunteers continue to join through word of mouth. DeRose picks up pillow cases about once a month if there are any waiting to be distributed. Other drop-off locations include JoAnn Fabrics in Fort Wayne and Margie’s Place in Columbia City. Another participating business in Leo
has since closed. DeRose also hosts events at various times throughout the year, during which the public is welcome to make pillow cases or donate their time in other ways. While some opt to cut or fold fabric or package items instead, DeRose said anyone can make a case. For firsttimers it can be an easy way to learn how to run a sewing machine. “They’re so simple to make. When I invite people I say, ‘Hey, bring someone who doesn’t know how to sew or someone who’s intimidated by it,’” she laughed. Kohl’s also has a program, Associates in Action, through which charities receive money based on volunteer turnout. Case For Smiles has received funding through that program in the past. For more information on Case For Smiles’ Fort Wayne chapter, visit its Facebook page at www.facebook. com/CaseForSmilesNEIndiana/. Any questions can be directed to milesofsmiles. fw@msn.com.
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