IN|Whitley County Dec. 28, 2017 by KPC Media Group

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2017 YEAR IN REVIEW

CONTRIBUTED

Emma Coy touches up her 4-H cake after transporting it to the Indiana State Fair in August. Coy garnered grand champion at the Whitley County Fair and won the Grand Sweepstakes Award at the state fair.

CONTRIBUTED TYLER ROEBUCK

Whitko band’s Nicole Lawson, Devin Spring, director John VanPatten, Malarie Puterbaugh and Hannah Sikora celebrate their state final experience with their trophy. Read more on Page 4.

Indiana 3rd District U.S. Rep. Jim Banks, R-Columbia City, standing at right, was sworn in by Speaker of the House Paul Ryan in January. Banks was joined by his wife, Amanda, and his three daughters, Lillian, Elizabeth and Joann.

WCCS began construction on new CCHS By Nicole Minier nminier@kpcmedia�com

COLUMBIA CITY — Construction commenced last summer on the only new high school in the state of Indiana — right here in Whitley County. The groundbreaking ceremony for the new Columbia City High School campus, south of the city limits on State Road 9, was in June at the site, with a program preceding the ceremonial groundbreaking. “As we break ground on the only new high school being built in Indiana,

the only new school being built in the state, we are breaking barriers for our students and for our county,” said Patricia O’Connor, Whitley County Consolidated Schools superintendent. “Congratulations. Be proud of what you’ve done for our kids and for our community.” The event had many speakers: School Board President Don Armstrong; John Lefever and Lori Shipman, of Friends of WCCS; September McConnell, of the Community Foundation of Whitley

County; Columbia City Mayor Ryan Daniel, County Councilman Bill Overdeer; and Principals Jennifer Reiff and Wes Mullett. “It isn’t possible for me to put into words the overwhelming joy and possibilities this new high school will have,” Armstrong said. “This shows that our kids and our future are important to this community.” The $85-million referendum for the new school, and other projects, passed in November 2015 — after See CCHS, Page 2

NICOLE MINIER

WCCS board members were all smiles at the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Columbia City High School. From left are President Don Armstrong, Stan Meyer, Mary Ann Schaefer, Bill Tucker, Jill Western and James Renbarger.

Columbia City broke ground on new aquatics facility COLUMBIA CITY — Columbia City government officials pulled together in

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the 11th hour to make a dream become reality for the citizens of Whitley County. The city broke ground on the Russel and Evelyn Fahl Aquatics Center last Tuesday after the park board made some late changes to the plans and the city council shuffled some funding to make up the shortfall. The project was estimated to cost $4.2 million, which was raised, but the cost

came in at about $5 million. In total, the park board made about $415,000 in cost reductions, including installing only one water heater instead of two, having a smaller sound system, laying less concrete, putting in less expensive siding on the building, having one basketball goal instead of two, and reducing the number of large umbrellas from 19 to 10. Also taken out of the cost of the project

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By Nicole Minier

was an employee health clinic, which will be funded through other means. In the end, the project will still have the amenities it promised — two large slides, play areas for young children, a competition pool and more. The city council made up the rest of the deficit by utilizing additional funds — still holding to Mayor Ryan Daniel’s promise that taxes wouldn’t be raised. Extra money from this year’s budget was used, as well as money from the river boat fund, rainy day fund and special projects seed money. Some of those items could be added at a later date, such as an additional water heater and improved sound system.

Ribbon cutting, groundbreaking

The hiccup in funding didn’t put a damper on the ribbon cutting, which drew a large crowd of residents excited for the new addition to the community. Park Superintendent Mark Green opened the event and spoke about his first memories of Burnworth Pool — the 60-year-old pool the new facility will replace. “I have a lot of great memories from Burnworth,” Green said. “I learned to swim at this pool — those swim lessons allowed me to be a lifeguard at five different facilities in Ohio and Indiana. I didn’t realize the impact it had on my own life.” Green was hired as park

director in 2003 and was surprised to see the pool’s condition. “Through the following eight years, we survived by pouring a lot of money into the pool, which was aging quickly,” Green said. In the end, engineers said it would cost over $1 million to repair Burnworth, which closed for the last time in the summer of 2016. “Six years ago, we started talking about wanting to build a new pool,” Green said. At first, Green was intimidated by raising that much money. “The most I’d ever raised was $250,000 for the splash pad — I was intimidated,” Green said. See POOL, Page 2

A2 • INwhitleycounty.com

Whitley County • December 28, 2017

POOL from Page 1 The first major donation came from the Dekko Foundation — $1 million — and many more followed, such as the Russel and Evelyn Fahl Family for the naming rights, Lutheran Health Network, $840,000 from Regional Cities funding, the Community Foundation of Whitley County and the Billy Reffitt family. Green said the project couldn’t have been done without the support of everyone involved. “Our park board has been excited since day one,” Green said. “It’s been fun to see the support for this project and the vision over the years.” Green applauded Tad Varga, a city councilman who also has a passion for swimming, for helping him with raising the money. “I’ve never had a councilman work so closely with me before,” Green said. He thanked Clerk-Treasurer Rosie Coyle for

helping with the financials, Lori Shipman for helping with grant writing, his wife and family for being supportive and the mayor “We have a very polished, honest and dedicated mayor. He is so passionate about making this community a better place,” Green said. Building a better future together Daniel marked the groundbreaking as a historic day for Whitley County. “Our city tagline is, ‘Building a future together,’” Daniel said. “We continue to build a future together with this groundbreaking.” The new facility, coupled with the new Columbia City High School, which is currently under construction, will continue to make Whitley County a place where “families can make memories together, and continue our legacy of being welcoming, generous and kind,” Daniel said.

“Residents are deciding where to live based on offerings,” Daniel said. “The only way our city will grow is by being attractive and providing experiences.” Daniel spoke about Job Burnworth, who donated $41,000 toward Burnworth Pool, which had a total construction cost of $81,000. “Thousands of residents and visitors have enjoyed the fruits of his donations,” Daniel said. Now, the facility will bear the names of the late Russel and Evelyn Fahl — a family that made a significant donation. “These are two families that worked hard to provide for their families and their community,” Daniel said. Pam McCoy spoke on behalf of her parents, the Fahls. “My parents were the most loving, caring, compassionate and generous people I ever knew,” McCoy

of high schools as being insular — focused only on serving students. Yet, how many times do we, as community members, use our school facilities for fundraisers, organizational meetings or performances? …You see, what I love most about this future facility is how it takes into account that it is more than just a place to educate our kids. Instead, it’s a community gathering space where students of all ages, me included, get an opportunity to continue the pursuit of lifelong learning.” With Whitley County’s unemployment rate at below 3 percent for the first time in decades, Daniel expects the facility to attract talent to the community. He noted a study that showed 46 percent of millenials and 28 percent of Gen X with children said their dream home would be “in a great school district.” “As both mayor of Columbia City and a parent of a future CCHS graduate, I am proud to say

that today marks the beginning of a bright, new future for Columbia City.” Daniel then proclaimed the day as “Leaving a Legacy Day” in Columbia City. Lefever and Shipman were instrumental in leading the campaign for the 2015 referendum as co-chairs of the “Friends of WCCS” group. “This new high school is an example of what we can accomplish when we work for our children and our community,” Shipman said. McConnell gave her own “Top 10 reason’s we’re here” list: 10. No more flood restoration. 9. Technology ready. 8. Everyone under one roof. 7. No more portable classrooms. 6. A center for the arts. 5. Handicap accessibility. 4. Reawakened Eagle Pride. 3. Designed with safety in mind. 2. A nod to economic development.

NICOLE MINIER

City officials pose for a photo. From left are Park Director Mark Green, Councilman Dan Weigold, Clerk-Treasurer Rosie Coyle, Councilmen Walt Crowder, Jennifer Romano and Nicole Penrod, Mayor Ryan Daniel and Councilman Tad Varga.

said. “They were always there to lend a hand and do whatever needed to be done. They felt so blessed that they wanted to bless others and leave a legacy to enrich the lives of others.” “It’s a family from our

community giving back to our community, it couldn’t have been better,” Green said. Brad Bishop serves on the Northeast Indiana Redevelopment Authority and is a Whitley County native who

is also excited to see the new quality-of-life project. “It today’s economy, we need to appeal to people based on where they will live,” Bishop said. “It’s not enough to have great jobs anymore.”

CCHS from Page 2 several failed attempts in prior years. “I know that the last round of this several years ago, and not getting to this point, caused some to lose hope — heads were hung low, the students thought they didn’t matter. This time, the community overwhelmingly said, ‘You matter.’ Today, hope abounds. This location will provide hope for generations to come.” Mayor Daniel spoke on the impact of the new school on the city and county as a whole, not just for students. “For years now, we have lamented the missed opportunities of population growth and business development due to the condition of the current school,” he said. “Business leaders wrongfully assumed that Whitley County doesn’t value education — when in reality, we were waiting for just the right moment to significantly invest in the future education of our students. “Typically, people think

NICOLE MINIER

WCCS Board President Don Armstrong spoke on his personal path to that point — beginning construction on the new school.

1. A morale booster. “Bob Brittain (former CCHS teacher) is looking down and smiling today,” McConnell said. “As we move forward, let’s remember him as well.” Superintendent O’Connor rallied the crowd with an inspirational and emotional

message before the group walked from the Indian Springs football field to the groundbreaking site to the east. “This is a story about a community that refused to take no for an answer,” she said. “Today is the beginning. Congratulations CCHS. Do I sound fired up? I am. Be proud of what you’ve done. Let’s break this ground and get started on a new high school for the loving, kind and caring community that you are. You have stolen my heart. To all of you I say, ‘Thank you, thank you, thank you.’” Children and adults of all ages were present for the historic event, including retired WCCS Superintendent Ralph Bailey, who became superintendent shortly after the current high school was built in 1959 and served for 23 years at WCCS. “I’m very excited for this. We will probably be the premiere in the state,” Bailey said. The new facility will

WCCS Superintendent Patricia O’Connor rallied the crowd at the ceremony prior to the groundbreaking.

feature 68 classrooms, space for Eagle Tech Academy, a greenhouse, courtyard, artificial turf football field, several gymnasiums, a café, fitness room, wrestling room — and room to grow. “The next three years will be an exciting time for everyone,” Principal Reiff said. “I’m proud to have a role in leading CCHS into the future.” The school is expected to be finished for students for the 2020-21 school year.

INwhitleycounty.com • A3

Whitley County • December 28, 2017

Fleetwood left Smith-Green South Whitley for Whitley Co. Consolidated hired litigation attorney By Nicole Minier nminier@kpcmedia.com

COLUMBIA CITY — Smith-Green Community Schools’ Business Manager Todd Fleetwood was hired by Whitley County Consolidated Schools Monday night, and in the same night, he resigned from SGCS. Fleetwood was the business manager at SGCS for the past seven years, where he also oversaw food service and transportation maintenence finances. Though Fleetwood made the move to work away from his hometown, his children still attend SGCS, and he will still be involved in many activities in Churubusco, such as being a board member of the Churubusco Youth Foundation and Chairman of the ’Busco Cub Scout pack. “It was a very tough

decision,” Fleetwood said. He was drawn to all of the new development going on in Columbia City — a new high school began construction this year, and there is business and housing development. “The biggest thing I’m attracted to is all of the positivity,” Fleetwood said. “It’s going to be hard leaving my hometown, but I’m not going across the state. It is literally another 3-4 miles away from my house.” Fleetwood is excited to take the next step in his career to a district that has three times the number of students and three times the budget as SGCS. “I wasn’t even looking to leave,” Fleetwood said, “but I felt like this is where God was leading me to.” Fleetwood is happy to

By Tyler Roebuck troebuck@kpcmedia.com

NICOLE MINIER

Smith-Green Community Schools’ Business Manager Todd Fleetwood was hired by Whitley County Consolidated Schools in April. He is pictured in front of his new office.

move to a district so close to Churubusco. “I don’t have to move my family and I can still be a part of the Churubusco community,” Fleetwood said. “I’ll still

be a phone call away. I’m still passionate about Churubusco, and I’ll continue to be behind the growth of Churubusco. Fleetwood was replaced by Jodi Royer.

Plan Commission approved changes to buffer, new lake residential zoning By Tyler Roebuck troebuck@kpcmedia.com

COLUMBIA CITY — After undergoing changes to comply with legal standards, the amended interim overlay buffer zone ordinance returned to the Plan Commission for review and approval during the regular Sept. 20 meeting. “As far as I see it, [the revisions] didn’t take away anything from our original intent,” said Plan Commissioner John Johnson, who made the

motion to approve revisions to the document and ultimately implement it. The amended version passed unanimously. Also in the meeting, a strip of previously unparceled land along the shoreline of Crooked Lake came, through complicated legalities, under the vote of the Plan Commission. The land, being previously unparceled, was not taxable and, therefore, had no zoning. Typically, in such occurrences, such

as right-of-ways along roads, the decision about what happens with the zoning of the new parcels falls to Planning Executive Nathan Bilger. Since this strip of land was not between existing parcels, nothing in Whitley County zoning code dictated precisely how the land should be zoned, so Bilger brought the issue before the Commission. Plan Commissioner John Woodmansee moved to zone the land lake residential, and Commissioner

S. Whitley doctor was arrested on felony charges By Nicole Minier nminier@kpcmedia.com

SOUTH WHITLEY — A probable cause affidavit submitted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency outlines the investigation behind the arrest of a former South Whitley family doctor, James Hanus, who was arrested in August. Hanus was charged with six felonies related to dealing “substantial sums” of prescription drugs without medical need, according to the affidavit. He faces four counts of dealing a schedule II controlled substance and two counts of dealing a controlled substance by a practitioner. According to a state program, INSPECT, which monitors controlled substance prescriptions in Indiana, Hanus prescribed the third greatest amount of drugs of all Indiana health care providers between Jan. 1, 2015, and Aug. 20, 2016.

The data includes all physicians, nurse practitioners, physician’s assistants and hospitals. Hanus had 3,080 unique patients who were prescribed controlled substances between Nov. 22, 2013, and July 31, 2016, according to INSPECT data in court documents. Hanus told investigators he treated about 15 patients out of his home before starting his own practice in South Whitley, following his termination from

Parkview in 2013. As his practice grew, Hanus told investigators he saw as many as 67 patients in a day. A receptionist told investigators she booked two patients per 15-minute block, and that he had about 4,000 active patients. Undercover officers found multiple prescription books that were blank and pre-signed by Hanus. The case is ongoing, as lawyers sort through “thousands” of documents in the case. His next hearing is in 2018. Mon. - Fri. 10 AM - 3 PM

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Brad Wolfe seconded. The vote passed unanimously.

SOUTH WHITLEY — With a 2-0 vote, the South Whitley Town Council moved to hire the law firm Rockhill Pinnick to pursue potential litigation against the Whitley County Commissioners regarding the dispatch of Lutheran Whitley EMS. The action came after Town Council President Randy Cokl appeared before the commissioners 12 times in 2017 to discuss dispatching of the town’s new Lutheran ambulance through county dispatch. “We would really like to resolve this outside of court,” councilman Les Hoffman said in a phone call after the Oct. 17 meeting. “But we’re willing to pursue this to the full extent of the law.” The announcement came to the Commissioners by surprise, as “we are not sure what basis they would sue and feel it is a complete

misuse of taxpayer funds considering other than during our meetings we have had no communication from the South Whitley Town Board,” Commissioner George Schrumpf said in an email. “I would say it’s surprising as Parkview has agreed to work with Lutheran.” Hoffman believes Parkview has been “limited in what they’re willing to do,” and supports taking further action. “It feels to me like the town has a need and people are questioning why we can’t have a dedicated service,” he said. His support is a matter of upholding his commitment to doing as the people wish. As for what grounds the Town Council will pursue, Hoffman was uncertain. “I know the lawyer had a couple ideas, but I don’t know if we have a specific angle at the moment.”

A4 • INwhitleycounty.com

Whitley County • December 28, 2017

Whitko Marching Pride travels to Lucas Oil Stadium By Tyler Roebuck troebuck@kpcmedia.com

INDIANAPOLIS — “I did not think we would get here,” Whitko band director John VanPatten told his band outside a cold and windy Lucas Oil Stadium. “Not because I didn’t believe in you – trust me, I believe in you, you guys are awesome, but because I know how hard it is to get here.” For the first time in Whitko history, the Marching Pride advanced past Indiana State School Music Association Semi-State competition to march at Lucas Oil Stadium on Nov. 4. The odds of making the ISSMA state competition are slim, with only 40 out of the 120 or more Indiana marching bands that compete make it each year. To stack the odds against them, Whitko marched with a mere 22 members, half of whom were freshmen, and a director in his first year with the school. Despite the odds, VanPatten and his band proceeded to the furthest extent an Indiana band can go, and placed 10th at finals in November. VanPatten places all the credit on the kids. “I have done so little for you, it is all on you,” he said in his pre-performance pep-talk. “I think about 65-70 percent of the band directors in Indiana could get their bands here, but only 10 in each class

PHOTOS BY TYLER ROEBUCK

The Whitko Marching Pride performs its show at Lucas Oil stadium for the first time.

have the students that buy into what they’re talking about, that work so hard, that listen at the very basic level. The smallest things are what get you here. Doing these small simple things well are what gets you here, and that is all on you.” ISSMA Semi-State is extremely competitive, with the difference between 10th and 11th places sometimes being as little as 0.01 point out of 100. The “small simple things” can indeed be the difference. “Without you guys doing what I ask you to do, we go nowhere. That is what should be on everybody’s mind here. This is nowhere close to being about me. No. This is about you. You got yourself here. This is your

accomplishment, and you need to be proud of what you have accomplished,” he said. Throughout the season, the band used the phrase “Why not us?” to emphasize that the size and experience level of the band does not matter. What matters is work ethic. “There were a few sets that I really struggled getting to because of the really big steps, but I just kept trying – even cried sometimes – but I kept determined,” said Rylee Rose, a freshman snare player. The kids took that message to heart. “They’ve responded to everything I’ve thrown at them, and they just keep wanting more. It’s incredible,” VanPatten

said. “I think that’s part of the reason we’ve been so successful, because they just keep wanting more to do.” In the stadium After arriving at Lucas Oil Stadium and unloading the trailer of instruments and equipment, bands marched into the lower level of the stadium where they warmed up bodies and instruments. From there, they proceeded to a corner tunnel leading to the field. The most heartwrenching moment for a performer is that moment – when they walk through the tunnel and see the overwhelming stadium before them. Most directors try to prepare students for this moment, because

After arriving at a chilly Lucas Oil Stadium, the band unloads the trailer and begins to prepare for the performance.

the adrenaline rush is intense. “You need to put one foot in front of the other and you need to get in it,” VanPatten said. “Let it be overwhelming later.” Junior percussionist Charles Ault reflected on his excitement leading up to this moment. “Last night, I couldn’t sleep because I was thinking about how it’s going to be huge, bright, flashy, heart bursting out of your chest sort of deal. I was trying to tell myself this was a performance like any other so that I didn’t freeze or mess up. I had to keep telling myself that throughout the show,” he said. For some, it was almost overwhelming. “My heart dropped to my stomach,” said senior flautist Hannah Sikora. “When we were standing in the opening set, I could feel my vision shifting.” Senior Nicole Lawson echoed Sikora. “I almost fainted. This is very tall and large and I feel very small but it was also awesome,” she said. Despite the grand nature of the stadium, the band members kept their cool, and cheered in excitement as they marched out after their performance. “I thought the kids did awesome,” VanPatten said after the performance. “They did a really good job. Being in that environment, they could really let the circumstances

overwhelm them and they absolutely did not. They kept their heads about them.” After the performance, bands enjoy a cold bottle of milk before heading back onto the field for awards, a ceremony called Retreat in marching band. The bands stand sideby-side as winners are announced. Although Whitko placed 10th out of 10 bands, VanPatten said the students have nothing to be ashamed of. “My first rehearsal here with Whitko, I remember we were all sitting in a circle and I was talking to you about how I had looked through your scores from the last couple years and I said, ‘You were really close to [advancing to state] in music, we’re going to work hard on visuals,’ and I said in the next five years, there’s no reason we shouldn’t be marching down at finals,” he said. “I was not expecting this group to be able to do what they’re doing at the end of my first year – I was expecting that at the end of year three or four.” At the conclusion of his pre-performance speech, VanPatten had the band repeat after him a phrase they have used to emphasize the team nature of band, “I will not let you down.” “And you have certainly done that all year round,” he said.

ISSMA State Finals is notorious for attracting large crowds, and the Nov. 4 event delivered. Terry G. Housholder, President Randy C. Mitchell, CEO S. Rick Mitchell, CFO

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Band members stand in the tunnel, taking in the awe of the stadium before them.

Nicole Minier, Editor

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Senior flautists Hannah Sikora and Nicole Lawson celebrated a good performance. Sikora and Lawson shared a flute duet during the show.

The band anxiously awaits the announcement of the winners at the awards ceremony, also called retreat.

INwhitleycounty.com • A5

Whitley County • December 28, 2017

Hile named SGCS superintendent By Justin Hunter jhunter@kpcmedia.com

CHURUBUSCO – SmithGreen Community Schools named Dan Hile its new superintendent at the board of trustees’ monthly meeting in June. “It’s been a special night,” said Hile. “I’ve lived in this community for 14 years, and have been a teacher or administrator for 12 of those years. I’m excited to take on this new role help our district.” Board member Dean Geiger took the lead on finding the new superintendent. Geiger received 10 applicants, and members of

the board narrowed it down to six candidates. Three of those candidates were brought back for interviews, where they provided short-term and longHile term plans for SmithGreen. Hile will started his position July 1, and his contract runs through June 30, 2020. Hile was the Smith-Green elementary principal since July 2016, and was assistant principal at Churubusco

Jr.-Sr. High School from August 2013 through June 2016. He was also assistant principal at Northridge High School in Middlebury. His first employment opportunity at Smith-Green came in 2003 as director of choral activities. His time with the Churubusco choirs lasted for eight years. Hile replaced Galen Mast, who is took a superintendent job at West Noble. In his announcement to the school board in February, Mast said it was one of the most difficult decisions he’d ever made, but he chose West Noble to be closer to his home.

JUSTIN HUNTER

The Hile family poses with the Smith-Green board of trustees. Pictured in the front left to right: daughter; Lillian Hile, wife; Jana Hile, son; Luke Hile, and Daniel Hile. Pictured in the back left to right: daughter; Lillian Hile, wife; Jana Hile, son; Luke Hile, and Daniel Hile.

OCRA awards Churubusco $10K grant for alley park Staff reports CHURUBUSCO — Churubusco received the green light for its downtown alley park after receiving a $10,000 downtown enhancement grant from the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs in December. OCRA announced last week that Churubusco, the town of Greentown and the city of Attica will receive the grants, which are intended to improve quality of life,

spur economic development and advance avenues for increasing private investment and employment in downtown areas. The grants total $27,056 with the communities providing a total local match amount of $58,570. “Revitalizing our local communities and helping boost their economy not only helps our state get to the Next Level, but inspires Hoosiers to provide forward

thinking investments in their areas,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch. “I am excited to see how the inventive ways local leaders have worked on are encouraging more people to visit and explore these beautiful downtowns.” The DEG program, which accepted applications in November, is designed to foster innovative approaches to activities that support and promote community based

planning, broad partnerships and beautification. Qualifying projects are those which promote economic development in the downtown areas and will enhance the quality of life in the community; applicants must be a designated Indiana Main Street community. The Town of Churubusco is receiving $10,000 for an alley activation project. The community matched its request with $26,505

of local match. The lead applicant is Main Street Churubusco and the partners include the Town of Churubusco, Churubusco Elementary School, Churubusco Chamber of Commerce and local business Ashley Johnson Realty. The project includes the project titled the “Franklin Promenade” walkway, a name chosen through a Facebook campaign to name the project.

The project will feature a mural to depict the naming of the town (named at the time after a recently won battle in the Mexican-American War titled the Battle of Churubusco), transformation of a dark and ill-maintained alleyway through adding lighting, sidewalks, benches, trash receptacles and landscaping and will feature a 2003 completed mural by a local high school student.

Attend training to apply dicamba ag products in 2018 Most farmers have been made aware that as of November 4, 2017 the Indiana Pesticide Review Board classified all pesticide products containing at least 6.5 JOHN E. percent WOODMANSEE dicamba, and having agricultural use labels, as Restricted Use Pesticides in Indiana. These products include previously over-thecounter herbicides that were sold to unlicensed applicators and farmers in years past. If you want to use Engenia (BASF), XtendiMax (Monsanto), or FeXapan (DuPont), there are additional requirements for 2018. Among other new label restrictions, prior to applying any of these three products, every applicator must complete state-required dicamba training. This training requirement applies to every commercial applicator, registered technician, private applicator or non-certified applicator working

under the private applicator’s supervision who makes applications to soybeans or to any other crops listed on these product labels. “The objective of the training is to prepare the applicator for the regulatory and practical rigors of applying these three products safely and effectively so we can maintain the availability of this weed control option in the future,” said David Scott, state pesticide administrator with the Office of the Indiana State Chemist. Only training programs sanctioned by the OISC and led by OISC-approved trainers will be accepted for dicamba applicators seeking the label-mandated training in 2018. “Starting Jan. 1, all training will be run through the existing Continuing Certification Hour program for commercial applicators and Private Applicator Recertification Program for private applicators,” Scott said. “Every 2018 training program for private applicators will include dicamba training. Likewise, many Category 1 CCH training sessions for commercial applicators will include the required dicamba training.” The portion of the training

that covers requirements for applying dicamba herbicides is one hour long. It covers all legal application requirements for dicamba herbicides. Topics for both the private and commercial training sessions include: recordkeeping, weed management practices, buffer requirements, protection of susceptible crops, chemistry, mixing, handling, window of application, and associated application challenges and risks. No certificate or special license designation will be issued. However, the training instructor and OISC will maintain a roster of those who complete the training and will record the applicator’s name, address and license number. Attendees must keep a record with the training date, location and

the CCH or PARP conference number as part of the mandatory label-required recordkeeping procedures for dicamba products. Individuals who are already certified applicators (both private and commercial) do not need to complete the training to purchase the products, but the training must be completed before making any applications. See detailed information from the Office of the Indiana State Chemist at: oisc.purdue. edu/pesticide/pdf/dicamba_ rup_applicator_mailer.pdf To find an approved Private Applicator Recertification Program that covers the dicamba topic in 2018, go to: ppp.purdue.edu/private-applicators/recertification-parp/ parp-events/. Note that both Whitley County and Noble County

applicators will have the opportunity to attend a local qualified training program on Monday, March 19. Official sign-in for the Whitley County program will be from 8–8:30 a.m. at the Whitley County 4-H Center, 680 W. Squawbuck Road, Columbia City. The program will run through the official sign-out period, from 11:05-11:45 a.m. The Noble County program will begin with official sign-in from 1:00 p.m. until 1:25 p.m. at the Noble County Complex – South, 2090 N. State Road 9, Albion, Indiana. It will conclude with the official sign-out period, from 3:30–4 p.m. Private applicators will be charged the standard $10 program fee for credit. For both of these programs, please pre-register by calling the appropriate local Purdue Extension office. In Whitley

County, call 260-244-7615; in Noble County, call 636-2111. Additionally, all regional farmers may attend one of two official qualifying programs at the Fort Wayne Farm Show on the afternoons of either Jan. 16 or 17. Contact your local Purdue Extension office for details. Some Category 1 trainings that target commercial applicators may also qualify. To see these events (listed qualifying events will have “/ MANDATORY DICAMBA TRAINING” OR “/ DICAMBA TRAINING” at the end of the name), go to: oisc.purdue.edu/oiscweb/#!/ publicrecords/pesticide/ conferences. You may also type the word “dicamba” in the conference search box. For more information, go to the OISC website at oisc. purdue.edu/.

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A6 • INwhitleycounty.com

OPINION

Some of us just ‘get through’ the holidays After all of the Christmas festivities ended, I paused for a moment to reflect on my column from last week. I reflected on how blessed I have been to always have someone to spend the holidays with, even if not in a traditional way. I’ve appreciated all the feedback from all of you readers after last week’s column about my journey with foster care and the positive impact it’s had on my life. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate your comments, but I should be real with everyone — it’s not always rainbows and butterflies. In fact, most days it’s the opposite. Most days, it’s NICOLE a struggle. It’s not an outward MINER struggle. Those who see me out covering a ballgame or out shopping with my kids don’t see my pain. But just because you don’t see it doesn’t mean it’s not there. I ask myself, why should I be so open, so public with my personal life? Maybe so you, dear readers, can understand that there are people all over Whitley County who have their own stories, their own struggles. That what you see on the outside is likely not the entire person. All holidays, but Christmastime especially, have always been a struggle for me. Like I said earlier in this column, yes, I’ve always been blessed to not be alone on Christmas, but maybe I should rephrase that — I have not been physically alone. But ever since I was a child, I’ve especially felt a void, an emptiness, at Christmas, and no matter what I do to avoid it, it’s always there. It’s not that the emptiness only shows up at Christmas, it’s just that the holidays are another painful reminder that something is missing — something that can’t be replaced. I love my kids, I love my husband and the family I do have, but getting through the holidays without either parent or your sibling is painful — probably more painful than I even admit to myself. I also know I’m not alone in this feeling. People often ask me which is worse: my mother dying when I was young, or not having my father or sister in my life. On one hand, my mom is gone and there’s no chance I’ll ever get her back — that’s painful. On the other side, I have a father who is alive, who is capable of having a relationship with me, but chooses not to. What’s worse? I’m not sure. They’re both difficult in their own ways. I do know that my experiences have taught me to cherish the time I have with family — to make new memories with my children and spend Christmas with my family members who want to spend time with me. Someday, I hope that will include my sister. Someday, I hope a piece of that emptiness will be filled, but for now, I will do what I have to do to get through Christmas. There are many people who are just “getting through” the holidays. While I don’t have the answer, I hope this column reaches someone who needs it — someone who needs to know they’re not alone in feeling alone. To anyone else: cherish every moment, you never know what next Christmas may bring. NICOLE MINIER is editor of the Churubusco News and IN|Whitley County newspapers.

Whitley County • December 28, 2017

Farewell, 2017

If we could choose one word to sum up 2017 in Whitley County, it would be “change.” Our county saw such positive change this year. Groundbreaking ceremonies and ribbon-cuttings marked the coming of new growth and impacted the community positively. We have enjoyed putting together this week’s edition of IN|Whitley County — a recap on the events from the past year. Whitley County broke ground on a new high school last summer and, shortly thereafter, broke ground on a new aquatics facility, helping make our community a great place to raise a family. Many businesses expanded and added jobs and a number of new busi-

nesses popped up, opening their doors for the first time. Columbia City, Churubusco and South Whitley are focusing on their downtown areas, with new storefronts in Columbia City, continued work by the Churubusco Main Street Association and a planned effort by South Whitley in forming a redevelopment commission. This work is long-term but it’s work that will hopefully maintain these communities for generations. In sports, Churubusco won its first ever basketball sectional in March, Whitko baseball and softball won sectional titles, and many members of the track teams advanced to the state

Our View

finals. We’ve celebrated Ralph Bailey’s birthday, covered the solar eclipse in August and given you a behindthe-scenes look into many controversial issues, such as the South Whitley ambulance debate and confined feeding operations dispute. We would be remiss if we didn’t mention our favorite change of 2017 — the creation of the IN|Whitley County news-

paper. We truly appreciate all of those who have supported us, either with kind words of encouragement or financially through advertisements. We expect 2018 to bring more change, especially in the area of school funding for Whitko and Smith-Green schools. Due to things seemingly out of the school boards’ control — the state’s funding structure and the population trends - both districts will be faced with district-altering decisions in the coming months. As always, if you have a story to tell or something you think would make an interesting article, reach out to us at nminier@ kpcmedia.com. Happy New Year!

Opioid crisis: Haunting year for Holcomb By sheer force of his personality, Gov. Eric Holcomb has personified in his first year in office the upbeat optimism of a happy warrior. That was the expected impression when I sat down with him earlier this month. But within minutes, Holcomb revealed the complexities of leadership after he experienced a year of extreme emotion, mostly due to the crushing and far-flung opioid pandemic that is hitting good Hoosier families across the socio-economic spectrum. He used the word “haunting,” in tandem with the adjective “fulfilling,” but still in the context of his personality, an unexpected pull of the human spirit. “It’s been such a fulfilling experience and I underestimated how profound personal interactions could be,” Holcomb said. “It’s been very gratifying and haunting at times.” How so? How haunting? “Because you see the darker side of lives,” he responded. “You wonder about humanity and what some do. At the very same time, you see people rush to help. You see extreme good and bad, all in a day.” He hears that many employers can’t find enough job seekers who can pass a drug test. He hears about kids watching their parents shoot up and hungry toddlers wandering in toxic meth labs. He lauds his assembled team of Drug Czar Jim McClelland, Dr. Jennifer Walthall who heads the Family Social Services

Administration, new state health commissioner Dr. Kristina Box and State Police Supt. Doug Carter, explaining, “It’s fortunate to have this team chemistry with people all moving in the same direction.” But this past week, we’ve learned how searingly hard grappling with the opioid crisis is going to be. The first was the resignation of Department of Child Services Director Mary Beth Bonaventura, who chafed under a chief of staff assigned to her, faltering technology, and what she described as funding cuts. The IndyStar reported that DCS has been “swamped” with a 65 percent increase in child abuse cases since 2010, many due to the opioid crisis. Marion County Juvenile Court Judge Marilyn Moores described the system as “literally drowning.” “I feel I am unable to protect children because of the position taken by your staff to cut funding and services to children in the midst of the opioid crisis,” Bonaventura wrote in the Dec. 12 letter to Holcomb. “I choose to resign, rather than be complicit in decreasing the safety, permanency and well-being of children who have nowhere else to turn. I fear lives will be lost and families ruined.” Holcomb disputes that, saying, “We are providing record funding to DCS with nearly half a billion dollars more in funding support over the next two years. We will continue to do all we can to protect

children.” On Thursday, the Centers for Disease Control reported that for the first time since 1992-93, life expectancy in the U.S. has declined for a second consecutive year. A big reason is that 42,000 Americans died of opioid overdoses in 2016, a 28 percent increase over 2015. Earlier this month, Indiana media reports said that General Assembly leaders would not be seeking new funding in the 2018 session, which is a non-budget year. Two thoughts came to mind: A crisis doesn’t work on a schedule and you get what you pay for. When I talked to Fayette County health officials last summer, along with state Rep. Cindy Ziemke, the appeal was for more funding. “That narrative is a little misleading in the sense that funding comes from different places,” Holcomb explained. “We’re still expecting another $10 million from the CURES Act. We’re still seeking in the HIP waiver … another $60 million-$65 million that we’ll know by the end of January. We’re seeking that right now. We’re spending I’m going to guesstimate another $100 million statewide on this epidemic through various agencies. We have Indiana University stepping up and saying, ‘Here’s another $50 million.’” The governor continued, “It’s not a budget year, so we’re not saying we’re going to appropriate another $50 million, but this is real money that is

going to be added into this effort. This money is going to be going directly to treatment. That’s where we need the help right now.” As for DCS, Indiana Office of Management and Budget Director Micah Vincent said on Thursday that the agency’s biennial request was for an additional $254.8 million over the biennium, and the budget Gov. Holcomb signed included $200 million more. Additionally, the administration is transferring $250 million from other sources to DCS during this biennium, for a total of a $450 million increase. Another $137 million came to DCS from the general fund at the end of FY 2017, making a total increase during the Holcomb administration of $587 million, which includes the $100 million the governor referenced earlier. Asked if the DCS system is “swamped,” Vincent answered, “What I would say is, we did review the need. That’s why we put $587 million in additional funding since this administration started.” The opioid crisis we face is the story of our time. It is impacting our youth, families, schools, our worker pool, and will tax everything from county jails and budgets, child welfare, corrections and many aspects of a functioning society. Gov. Holcomb is starkly correct on at least one huge point: We have a long, long way to go.

INwhitleycounty.com • A7

Whitley County • December 28, 2017

2017 PHOTOS IN REVIEW

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Columbia City High School’s Spell Bowl team won the state championship at Purdue University. Pictured from left are Lenah Beck, Karen Cheng, Coach Dennis Beckner, Kennedy Arntz, Eric Burkholder, Maizey Foreman, Eric Yager, Josh Mattes, Humzah Qureshi and Jaeden Roussey.

NICOLE MINIER

2016 Miss Whitley County Kaitlyn Sheets places the crown atop new queen, Jenna Pittenger’s, head.

NICOLE MINIER NICOLE MINIER

Children in the age 7 and up age group scramble to scoop up eggs on one of the ball diamonds at Churubusco’s town park. Christ Community Church put out more than 10,000 eggs for children to collect as part of its annual mEEGa Easter egg hunt.

Erica Miller was estatic after her ticket was drawn to win a purse at the Power of the Purse fundraiser, hosted by the United Way of Whitley County at the Eagle Glen Event Center. About $15,000 was raised for Whitley County Consolidated Schools’ Kindergarten Countdown program.

TYLER ROEBUCK

Participants in the 2018 Distinguished Young Woman program, from left, Rozlyn Bishop, Kellie Frei, Kaleigh Craig, Brein Gross, Alexia Aung, Isabel Hunter, Alayna Trier, Alyssa Duff and Sydney Kortie. The event was in September at CCHS.

NICOLE MINIER

Blane, Cambri and Amira Wilson enjoy nachos and cheese while listening to music at the ’Busco Block Party in August.

Columbia City High School seniors Hannah Pease, left, and Valerie Michel, right, along with their teacher Tammy Banks, created this large mural of the school, which the artists hope will be displayed at the new CCHS, which begins construction this summer.

NICOLE MINIER

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A8 • INwhitleycounty.com

Whitley County • December 28, 2017

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INwhitleycounty.com • A9

Whitley County • December 28, 2017

Chamber, United Way and Pathfinder Services opened new office in downtown Columbia City Staff reports

COLUMBIA CITY — The Whitley County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Center and the United Way of Whitley County opened a spacious, new welcoming center in downtown Columbia City in early 2017. After several years’ absence from downtown, the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Center moved to 128 W. Van Buren St., on the Whitley County Courthouse Square. The facility features a visitor’s center with a high-tech interactive kiosk with virtual

mapping, a curated collection of Whitley County-made items, art prints of local landmarks, community-centric work of local artists, gifts, marketing materials and more. Additionally, the facility includes co-working space available for rent as well as a large and small conference room. “For decades, the Chamber has served as a resource for those visiting our community and for those planning to relocate here,” said Jennifer Romano, executive director of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Center. “Now, with the

support of many community partners, we are building up our efforts in a major way to actively promote and sell our community.” The opening of the facility is the realization of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Center’s long-term plans to actively promote the community and to address the informational needs of residents, visitors and new residents to the community. “The chamber has been working toward this goal for many years. And now as we open the doors to our new building and launch our

expanded programming, we are taking the lead on promoting everything that is great about our community — locally and beyond,” added Mike DeFreeuw, a board member of the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Center. “The new Visitor’s Center will show residents what wonderful amenities and experiences our community has to offer,” said Columbia City Mayor Ryan Daniel. “We know our community is great, but this new Visitor’s Center will show the rest of the world what we already know.” Excited by recent

development in downtown Columbia City spearheaded by several entities, the Whitley County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor’s Center, the United Way of Whitley County and Pathfinder Services are eager to support their efforts by investing in the heart of the downtown. “We applaud the efforts of many local individuals

and volunteers who are working hard to make our downtown an attractive, busy place, and we look forward to growing as a nonprofit organization in this new location,” added Romano, citing the work of the Downtown Business Alliance, City of Columbia City, Whitley County EDC, Columbia City Main Street and others.

S. Whitley formed Redevelopment Commission By Tyler Roebuck troebuck@kpcmedia.com

SOUTH WHITLEY — Twenty years down the road, you may be surprised to find a bustling downtown, full of active young people, recreation facilities, infrastructure and business success in the small town of South Whitley. This will not come about spontaneously. It will require hard work and many dedicated hands. At the Sept. 12 town council meeting, Councilmen Randy Cokl, Bill Boggs and Les Hoffman approved a second reading of an ordinance creating the South Whitley Redevelopment Commission. The commission members are

Tim Campbell, Nathan Haywood, Karen Jordan, Brian Rose, Kristy Shoemaker and Jorell Tucker, and Hoffman is excited for the future of the town. As he explains, the redevelopment of South Whitley is an integral part of Hoffman’s time as a councilman, and in fact was part of the reason he ran for office. “I looked at several things and why I should run and one of the things that kept coming up was that people would like to have businesses established downtown,” he said. “When you get down to it, there were a lot of issues such as infrastructure that we’ve looked at, worked on things like potable water and the sewer. We’re looking at

street paving and sidewalk improvements.” Infrastructure improvements are the catalyst to developing the town. According to Hoffman, many people in town think that a large factory moving in would solve the town’s woes. This, he explains, would actually complicate the situation rather than resolve it, “because we don’t have our infrastructure set yet.” “We’ve got to build some things first, then we could start to key in on something larger. Right now, it would be very impractical, it’s not going to work unless we have somebody who’s a millionaire come in here and lay a lot of things out at once,” he said. A major tool at the

disposal of the commission will be a TIF (Tax Increment Funding) district. TIF districts allow towns to collect and use taxes from increases in assessed property values within the district to bolster the redevelopment plan, Myers explained. The TIF can work in conjunction with the historic district, according to Bilger. “A TIF for downtown would help with the funding of projects – historic preservation helps to give encouragement for developing what’s there and retaining the historic character and building upon that,” he said. “Using them together can help build the character and the character helps build the funds.”

Crowdfunding successful for Oscar’s Playland Staff reports

INDIANAPOLIS — Visitors to Churubusco’s beloved Community Park will soon be able to enjoy a new, all-inclusive playground, thanks to a successful crowdfunding campaign sponsored by the Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority and the Churubusco Youth Foundation. The campaign was offered through the Patronicity crowdfunding platform. Since the campaign reached its crowdfunding goal of $25,000 by Sept. 8, the Oscar’s Playland project earned a matching grant with funds made possible by CreatINg Places, a program of IHCDA. The 65-acre Churubusco Community Park has many modern amenities; including a splash pad, a skate park, baseball diamonds, tennis courts and soccer fields. However, it is noticeably missing a playground for kids of all ages and abilities to enjoy.

The current playground was installed over 30 years ago and is unable to safely meet the needs of today’s children, especially those with disabilities. The funding raised during this campaign allows the

Churubusco Youth Foundation to change that by replacing the aging playground with one that is modern and all-inclusive. “Churubusco Park is the gem of our community. We want to polish it and

help future generations see it sparkle.” said Miles Wilson, president of the Churubusco Youth Foundation. The playground is expected to begin construction in 2018.

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A10 • INwhitleycounty.com

Whitley County • December 28, 2017

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INwhitleycounty.com • A11

Whitley County • December 28, 2017

Prairie Farms

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We reserve the right to correct printed errors

SPORTS

A12 • INwhitleycounty.com

Whitley County • December 28, 2017

Eagles won first ever hoops sectional By Nicole Minier nminier@kpcmedia.com

WOODBURN — At the start of the season, coach Chris Paul had no history in Churubusco. After Saturday night’s sectional title win over Eastside, coach Paul will go down in the record books. Paul moved to the area fall 2016 after he accepted the head boys basketball coach position. Just seven months later, Paul etched his name into the history books of Churubusco, helping the team to its first-ever title — 99 years after the school first entered the sectional tournament. After he heard Churubusco was one of the few schools in the state without a sectional title,

Paul quickly made that is goal. “I knew we had all the pieces, but it was going to take some time,” Paul said. The regular season didn’t necessarily treat the Eagles well. ’Busco started with an 0-3 record and later went on to 8-7. “Now, we’ve won nine out of the last 10, to some really good teams,” Paul said. “We’re playing the best we can and at the right time.” Paul knew winning a sectional title was important to the community, but he hadn’t realized how important it was until the team’s win over Eastside in the title game at Woodlan. “People are coming up to me, telling me stories of how much they wanted to win one,” Paul said.

Carlin Amber takes a shot in the first round of sectional play against South Adams.

“People are hugging and crying — it’s a cool thing.” Paul, whose contract as IPFW’s head women’s coach wasn’t renewed in 2016, said from the moment he came to town for his interview with athletic director Paul Sade, he knew it was the place for him. “I went through a tough time after my contract wasn’t renewed,” Paul said. “I felt like a failure and that I had let people down.” Paul was released as the head coach after 10 seasons with the Mastadons. “When I left my interview in Churubusco, I called my wife and said, ‘I like that man (Paul Sade), and I feel like

home.’” And home it has been for the Paul family. “I have been welcomed and my family has been welcomed since day one,” Paul said. “It just says a lot about this town — how tight we are as a group.” As many former coaches enjoy talking about the old days and successful teams, Paul said he looks forward to doing the same. “Years from now I hope coach Sade and I will be sitting there, talking about this team,” Paul said. “Maybe we’ll be talking about a regional championship. Maybe a state appearance. I’m not convinced we’re done yet. There’s something about this team.”

PHOTOS BY NICOLE MINIER

Grant Huelsenbeck, pictured, and the rest of the Eagles cut down the net for the first time in Churubusco history.

After shaking hands with their opponents, the Eagles celebrate the win.

FOLLOW WHITLEY COUNTY SPORTS Thursday, December 28

Friday, December 29

Saturday, December 30

Columbia City boys basketball hosts Bellmont, (Tny), noon Whitko boys basketball at Huntington North (Tny), noon Whitko boys basketball vs. Leo at Huntington North (Tny), 4 p.m. Columbia City boys basketball hosts Lake Central (Tny), 8 p.m.

Columbia City/Huntington boys basketball tournament continues, TBA Columbia City girls basketball vs. NorthWood at Northridge Tny., 11:30 a.m. Columbia City girls basketball vs. South Bend Adams at Northridge Tny., 3:30 p.m. Columbia City wrestling at Defiance Invitational

Columbia City girls basketball vs. Lake Central at Northridge Tny., 11:30 a.m. Columbia City wrestling at Defiance Invitational Churubusco wrestling at Whitko, 9 a.m.

WhitleyCounty County Whitley wc wc

inwhitleycounty.com

Monday, January 1

Tuesday, January 2 Columbia City girls basketball at Churubusco, 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, January 3 Columbia City wrestling hosts East Noble, 6:30 p.m. Churubusco boys basketball at Woodlan, 7:30 p.m.

Submit your sports stories or photos to Nicole Minier at nminier@kpcmedia.com

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SPORTS

Whitley County • December 28, 2017

INwhitleycounty.com • A13

Whitko baseball won first ever sectional title By Justin Hunter jhunter@kpcmedia.com

WABASH – Whitko’s baseball team captured its first sectional championship in the program’s history last spring against Cass, 5-3. “It means a lot that we finally won it,” said head coach Erik Hisner. “We had a lot of past players here too. We had a lot of support this week. It means everything to us, because everyone worked hard for this. They got to get what they deserved tonight.” Drew Bradford broke a 3-3 tie in the fifth inning by hitting the ball deep enough to send a pair of baserunners home. Bradford also got the win on the mound. He allowed seven hits, and struckout seven. River West came in to secure the victory in the bottom of the sixth inning. West pitched just over an inning, and allowed no hits, and striking out a

batter. The Wildcats started the game with a bang. West hit an RBI single with the bases loaded to let Alex Bechtold score. Bradford left third base for home as Zach Hewitt found himself safe at third in a run down. Cass’ pitcher balked to advance Hewitt home. Whitko found itself with a 3-0 early advantage. Cass fought back and loaded up the bases with no outs in the second inning. Cass punched in a pair of runs to narrow the Wildcats’ lead, 3-2. Whitko recorded no hits in the third inning, and Cass took advantage in the bottom of the third. Cass scored a run to draw the game even at three runs. Whitko had no hits once again in the fourth inning. No harm was done, as Cass left a man stranded on third base to end the inning. Whitko started off the fifth inning with Spencer

Drew Bradford

Sroufe hitting a single off an error, then stealing to second base. Bechtold walked and also stole to second. That’s when Bradford hit his long ball to break the tie and go ahead 5-3 with much shown emotions while he stood on first base. Bradford flaunted his emotion once more in the fifth inning, this time when he struck the third man out, with a Cass player left on third base.

JUSTIN HUNTER

The Whitko baseball team surround pitchers Drew Bradford and River West moments after winning the school’s first sectional championship.

Bradford came off the mound after walking a batter during the sixth inning. River West stopped any runs from scoring as the Wildcats were off celebrating their sectional championship

win. “It was a gutty game,” said Hisner. “Bradford was outstanding, pitching out of trouble all night. River West came in and we couldn’t have asked more from him.

Everyone contributed one way or the other. This game means a lot to our program” The Wildcats went on to lose in regional play, ending their historic season.

Whitko softball clinched sectional championship By Justin Hunter jhunter@kpcmedia.com

CONVERSE — Whitko’s softball team beat sectional host Oak Hill in eight innings to take the sectional crown, 1-0. After a scoreless seven innings, Emmie Duggins started the eighth inning by hitting a ground rule double over the left field fence. Anna Ousley hit an RBI double to Duggins home for the game winning run. Whitko had a few other chances to take the lead earlier in the game. The Wildcats left Riley Insley stranded on third base in the sixth inning when a batter hit a line drive directly into the glove of the Oak Hill third baseman. The Lady Wildcats also had an opportunity in the top of the seventh inning. Whitko had the bases loaded with only one out. Meaghan Christoffel struck out on a full count against Oak Hill’s stellar pitcher and Insley popped out to leave Andrea Snavley stranded on third base. “It was disappointing at the time,” said head coach Michele Garr after her first career sectional title. “We don’t quit around here. That why I’m really proud. Last year we would have rolled over and given up, but this year they kept playing with heart.” Ellie Snep was dominant throughout the night and pitched the shutout. Snep only allowed two hits in all eight innings. Whitko had six hits in the game, three of which happened after the fifth

Emmie Duggins points to Anna Ousley, who hit an RBI double to let her score the game winning run in extra innings.

inning. “It was a great game played by two great teams. Ellie (Snep) pitched one heck of a game,” said Garr. “We kept battling and I could not be any prouder of them. This was our goal from the beginning, so it’s great to get it done.” The Lady Wildcats defeated Manchester 3-2 in the semifinal game. Manchester scored a run in the first inning, and the game was scoreless until Whitko tied the game in the third inning.. The Wildcats scored another run in the fifth inning to take the lead, 2-1. Manchester scored in the sixth inning to tie the game at two. Whitko scored the game-winning run in the seventh inning with Riley Insley reaching home plate from a teammate’s bunt, advancing the team to the sectional

championship. Ellie Snep got the win on the mound with four strikeouts and led the team at bat with a single and double.

JUSTIN HUNTER

The Whitko softball team poses at home plate with the IHSAA sectional hardware trophy.

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SPORTS

A14 • INwhitleycounty.com

Whitley County • December 28, 2017

Columbia City girls’ track won NE8 meet Staff reports

COLUMBIA CITY – The Columbia City girls’ track team beat East Noble and New Haven 87, 62, 18, respectively, last week. Gabby Fry won the 400-meter dash for the Lady Eagles. Lillie

Oddou won the 800-meter run, one second faster than teammate Lauren Keller. Cassidy Burdge received first place in high jump, out-jumping teammate Kackenzie Martin by an inch. Elise Cormany crushed her opponents in pole vault to

win the event. Columbia City also won the 400-meter relay, 1,600-meter relay and 3,200-meter relay. CC boys tracksters win three-way WATERLOO – Columbia City’s boys’ track team beat Norwell

and DeKalb 89.5, 48.5, 29, respectively, last week at DeKalb High School. Heath Atkins won the 100-meter dash for the Eagles, followed by teammate Doug Hill. Atkins also won the 200-meter dash, followed by team-

Lady Eagles won first ever conference tournament By Justin Hunter jhunter@kpcmedia.com

CHURUBUSCO – Churubusco’s softball team won its first NECC tournament championship in school history as the Lady Eagles beat Fremont in a close, 4-3, game in late April. The Lady Eagles won the tournament after starting the season 0-3 in conference play. “We were out of the conference race,” said head coach Phil Nicolette. “There was nothing else to play for at that point other than to get better and play in this tournament. Our mind frame was that no one expects us to do well, so let’s give this a shot. We were relaxed and playing with no pressure, and it worked well.” Churubusco trailed early as Fremont went up 2-0 after the first inning. Churubusco tied the game in the second inning scoring two runs.

jhunter@kpcmedia.com

TRI-LAKES – Susan Meyers is a 75-year-old swimmer from Whitley County who won three gold medals in her age group at the FINA Championship games in Budapest, Hungary in August. Meyers took home the gold in the 100-meter butterfly, 200-meter freestyle and 200-meter medley. “I was pretty thrilled at the time,” said Meyers. “I am pretty tired of putting them on to pose for photos though.” It was the first time she won a gold medal. She also won three silver medals. Meyers took a few family members and a handful of old friends from South Side High School with her to Budapest. Meyers didn’t bring a coach, since she doesn’t have one. She learns techniques from attending swimming clinics.

1,600-meter run. Matt Kennedy received first place in pole vault. Atkins continued his successful day by winning the long jump. Columbia City also won the 400-meter, 1,600-meter and 3,200meter relays.

Whitley County track had strong showing at state By Justin Hunter jhunter@kpcmedia.com

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

The Lady Eagles pose with the tournament trophy after they won the Northeast Corner Conference softball tournament on their home field in April.

Maddison Simmons hit a two-run homer to tie the game. Abi Erwin hit another two-run home run in the third inning to make the score 4-2.

The fourth inning went scoreless. Then Fremont hit a single score home run in the fifth inning. No other runs were scored in the game thanks to a strong effort by the Lady

Eagle defense. Carlee Koldyke got the win on the mound as she threw 61 pitches in seven innings, allowing five hits, three runs and recording a strikeout.

Local swimmer won gold medal at world championship By Justin Hunter

mate Tim Hearld. Hearld got first place in the 400-meter dash. Columbia City freshman Taylor Bryce won the 800-meter run and senior Jacob Matteson got second place. Landon Wakeman got first place in the

“My family and friends all wanted to be there and sight-see. I think they may have had to suffer through some swim meets,” said Meyers. “We also went on a Viking cruise after the swimming meets. I went to swim, they all came to cruise.” Meyers, her family and friends had a great time exploring the city and culture. “We stayed right in the city in an apartment and we had to learn to take the subway trains and buses to the venues. So, every day to the pool, I got to see many things on the way. We also had plenty of time to catch dinner at restaurants,” Meyers said. Meyers is no stranger to the international stage of swimming. She previously swam at the FINA world championships in Italy in 2012 and Montreal in 2015. FINA, the world governing body of aquatic sports hosts

CONTRIBUTED

Meyers

the event every two years. Swimmers have to meet time requirements in order to qualify for the event for elite swimmers. She’s swam in domestic competitions as west as Riverside, Calf., to east as Orlando. Meyers’ love for being in the pool began once she competed in diving as a club sport at South Side High School in Fort Wayne. At the time, organized sports for girls didn’t exist.

It wasn’t until many years later that she discovered her love for swimming. Her son swam in high school, and she thought she might give it a try. Some 20 years later, she is one of the best in her age group. “I partook in it, and liked it enough to start swimming myself,” said Meyers. “There is a lot to swimming. It takes a while, because it’s a very technical sport. There is a lot to learn and it takes many years of practice. I’m lucky I have a good feel for the water, so that makes it a little easier to start with.” Meyers believes many don’t know the thrill of swimming. It keeps her heart racing to this day. “People don’t know a whole lot about swimming,” said Meyers. “They think its paddling up and down a pool. It’s kind of hard to explain how exciting it is to people who think it’s boring to watch.”

BLOOMINGTON – Two of the 10 Whitley County athletes who competed at the track state finals at Indiana University last week made their ways to the award podium. Columbia City high jumper Alex Scharpenburg and Churubusco pole vaulter Sam Wood placed in the top 10 within their categories of competition. Scharpenburg leapt 6 feet, 4 inches to place eighth. “We were hoping that he would clear the school record that day but it just wasn’t meant to be,” said head coach Ryan Trieschman. “Alex did clear 6-foot-4 which tied him with four other outstanding young men for eighth place. The competition this year was very good and I hope to see Alex back again in both the indoor and outdoor competition in the next season now that he has some experience under his belt.” Churubusco’s Sam Wood earned his way to the podium by tying for 9th place in pole vault. The freshman jumped 14 feet, 3 inches. ‘Busco’s Brayden Simmons placed 13th in discus. Simmons recorded a toss of 152 feet, 7 inches. Whitkos’s Gavin Howard finished 14th in shot put, throwing 51 feet, 4 inches, the same distance he recorded in last week’s regional at Kokomo. Churubusco’s Rachel Jacquay pole-vaulted to a height of 10 feet, 6 inches to land 15th place out of 26 vaulters. Jacquay, a sophomore, has two more years to compete at state. “Rachel had a great state meet,” said head coach Zach Dock. “She made her second highest bar of her career in the biggest meet of the year.

Wood

Scharpenburg

She came a long way this spring, we are all very proud of her.” Columbia City’s girls’ 3,200-meter relay team of Eden Oddou, Lillie Oddou, Lauren Keller and Jasmine Early came in 17th out of 27 teams. The team finished with a time of 9:37.5. Whitko’s Alex Wilson ran the 200-meter dash in 22.87 seconds, but didn’t make it past the preliminaries. His time was exactly the same as the one he scored at the Kokomo regional. Despite Wilson’s and Howard’s places at the state competition not meeting their ultimate goals, their coach believes their performances were a solid way to end their seasons. “I think that Gavin was a little disappointed that he did not make the finals in the shot put, but I am happy for both boys (Howard and Wilson),” said Whitko head coach Ron Cherry. “They had excellent seasons and competed well at the state meet.”

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SPORTS

Whitley County • December 28, 2017

INwhitleycounty.com • A15

Huffman returned to Eel River Golf Course Staff reports

CHURUBUSCO — Jeff Huffman came back to his hometown. In February, Huffman was named the new PGA Head Golf Professional at Eel River Golf course, located south of Churubusco. As a Churubusco High School graduate, Huffman’s wasn’t new to the course,

having grown up playing golf at Eel River as a junior golfer, and then later for the school’s varsity golf team. Following high school, Huffman attended Tri-State (Trine) University, receiving his bachelor’s in business administration, where he was a member of the men’s golf team that competed in two NAIA national championships.

Huffman has 20 years of experience in the Indiana Section PGA. He is known as a premier operations manager, instructor, club fitter, merchandiser and tournament/outing administrator. Huffman began his career as the first PGA head professional at Cobblestone Golf Course in Kendallville. In recent years, he

was at Glendarin Hills Golf Course in Angola. He received his PGA apprentice training at Trine and Sycamore Hills Golf Club in Fort Wayne. Eel River Golf Course was founded by the Luther “Bus” Duncan family in 1965. In 1975, Dale Duncan purchased the course from Luther, his uncle. Dale Duncan was

the first in the area to bring simulator golf to the winter off-season. The course continues to be operated by the Duncan family and focuses on an enjoyable, year-round golf experience for all skill levels. Eel River Golf Course is located at 1265 N. C.R. 950E. Call 693-3464 or visit eelrivergolfcourse.com for more information.

Wood named North All-Star

2017 SPORTS PHOTOS

Staff reports

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

The Smith siblings pose in their garage, where they practice taekwondo for hours at a time. Pictured front, from left, Abraham Smith, Adelaide Smith and Veronica Smith. From back, Naomi Smith, Arianna Smith, Isabella Smith, A.J. Smith, Sophia Smith and Graham Smith.

JUSTIN HUNTER

CCHS graduate Jared Murphy runs out of the visitors locker room with his team, Miami of Ohio, at Notre Dame Stadium this fall.

NICOLE MINIER

Whitko’s Ethan Howard picks up yards while Churubusco’s Joey Leazier and Joe Rennaker tackle him in the county rivalry game in August

LOVE

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

The Whitko boys track team poses with the Three Rivers Conference tourney trophy after winning the meet last spring.

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CHURUBUSCO — Churubusco High School senior Nash Wood was selected to the Indiana North All-Star football team, earning him the opportunity to play in the special game during the summer. The 6-foot-2 outside linebacker is a two-time All-NECC player. In his career, he tallied 71 tackles, 201 assisted tackles, 46.5 tackles for loss, 15 sacks and five break-ups. His senior year, he had 47 solo tackles, 169 assists, 18 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks and one

break-up. Wood is the seventh Churubusco football player since 1983 to earn the honors. Others include Thor Hodges (1983), Bert McLaughlin (1993), Jeremy Berry (2008), Kyle Mathewson (2011), Jason Nicodemus (2013) and Teegan Brumbaugh (2014). Churubusco head coach Paul Sade spoke highly of Wood. “He is definitely the toughest player I’ve ever coached,” Sade said. “No doubt in my mind. He’s a hard worker and highly competitive.”

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Rolla Harris dives in head first as Chris Holloway and Jacob Harris jump off the icy ledge at the annual Churubusco Polar Bear Plunge at Blue Lake on New

A16 • INwhitleycounty.com

Whitley County • December 28, 2017

2017 PHOTOS IN REVIEW

NICOLE MINIER TYLER ROEBUCK

Skylar, Dominick, Aiden and Joe enjoy The Twister ride at Turtle Days in Churubusco in June.

Colton Coffelt and Hannah Behm share a kiss after being named king and queen at Columbia City High School’s Homecoming.

NICOLE MINIER

Fifth-grade students at Coesse Elementary School were excited when they saw the eclipse for the first time.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED NICOLE MINIER

Mike DeFreeuw presents Gary and Heather Parrett with the Employer of the Year award at the Chamber awards banquet.

TROY Center school received a new location on East Business 30 in Columbia City. The building was sold by co-owners Billy Reffitt and Mike Steele, at left. At right are TROY Center Director Nicole Trier and board member Jim Stapel.

TYLER ROEBUCK

Senior pastor Kent Lundy stands in front of his new church, Churubusco United Methodist Church. Lundy was an associate pastor at the Columbia City UMC before being deployed by the U.S. Air Force.

NICOLE MINIER

Ronald Reed was the oldest veteran honored at Coesse’s Veterans Day program. Reed is a World War II veteran.

NICOLE MINIER

A video of Kolt Kyler and his father, Andy, went viral in 2017 after his father gave him tickets to a Cubs game. Above, Natalie and Andy Kyler are pictured with their son, Kolt, at their family farm near Pierceton. Kyler is a Whitko student.

NICOLE MINIER

Brody and Jack-Henry Schilling pose for a photo near the iconic turtle at “The Point” in downtown Churubusco during Halloweenfest.

JUSTIN HUNTER

Of the 154 participants in the Junior Achievement Car Show, 77 were repeats from previous years and 77 were first-time entrants in the show.

Honoring the best and brightest under 40 in northeast Indiana. NOMINATION DEADLINE FEBRUARY 4

Visit fwbusiness.com under the Events tab. KPC40U40_82809

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

After securing an invitation to attend a national finals competition for the first time in Churubusco show choir history, New Era was thrilled to be named fourth runner-up at the FAME National Show Choir Finals at the Arie Crown Theater in downtown Chicago in April. Los Alamitos High School from Los Alamitos, Calif. was named Grand Champion. Other competing schools included Janesville Craig High School from Janesville, Wis.; Carroll High School from Fort Wayne; Chesterton High School from Chesterton; Walsh Jesuit High School from Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio; Northrop High School from Fort Wayne; Austin High School from Austin, Indiana; and Omaha South High School from Omaha, Neb.

INwhitleycounty.com • A17

Whitley County • December 28, 2017

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Whitley County • December 28, 2017

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INwhitleycounty.com • A19

Whitley County • December 28, 2017

Community Calendar Include news of your group, too

Send news of your group to nminier@kpcmedia.com. Items will be selected and edited as space permits.

Dec.

28 31 Jan.

Dec. 28

• Explore 4-H Night, hosted by the Whitley County Extension Office, will give children the opportunity to meet club and project leaders, ask questions, pick up information, talk to current 4-H members, have a snack and even enroll in 4-H. “This is an opportunity to check out the many projects, clubs and events that we offer,” said Todd Geiger, extension educator of 4-H youth development. • South Whitley Town Council will host its regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. in Town Hall. • Columbia City Municipal Board of Works and Common Council will hold their regular meetings at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers in Town Hall.

7 8

Dec. 31

• The brick sale for the Russel and Evelyn Fahl Aquatics Center in Columbia City will continue through Dec. 31. Engraved bricks can be purchased at fundraisingbrick.com/columbia city. Jan. 2, 2018

• Whitley County Commissioners will hold their regularly scheduled meeting at 1 p.m. in the Whitley County Government Center. The commissioners meet the first and third Monday of each month, but will meet Tuesday due to the New Year. • The Whitley County Patriots will start the new year with a discussion on President Trump’s first year in office, with topics ranging from healthcare to illegal immigration to tax reform. The meeting will be held at the Nazarene Church in Columbia City at 7 p.m., with refreshments being provided. • Join the South Whitley Community Public Library for some winter break games at 1 p.m.

Jan. 3

• Whitley County Council will hold their regularly scheduled meeting at 8 a.m. in the Whitley County Government Center. Council meets on Tuesday on the first full week of the month, but will meet Wednesday due to the New Year. • Churubusco Town Council holds their regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. in Churubusco Town Hall. The council meets on the first and third Wendesday of each month. • Winter Break Bingo will be held at the South Whitley Community Public Library starting at 1 p.m. Anyone school aged is welcome.

Jan. 6

• The Leatherneck Coffee Club meets at 8 a.m. in the basement of St. Paul of the Cross Church in Columbia City on the first Saturday of each month. All Marine Corps veterans are welcome to attend. Jan. 7

• The Knights of Columbus will have an all you can eat biscuits and gravy breakfast from 8 a.m. - noon in the gym of Saint Paul of the Cross Church in Columbia City. Costs for the meal are $6 for adults, and the proceeds will go to the Whitley County Energy Assistance Fund.

Jan. 8

• Mothers of Preschoolers, MOPS, is at 9:30 a.m. at the Whitley County Family YMCA and put on by Big Lake Church of God. Other dates include Jan. 22, Feb. 12, Feb. 26, March 12, March 26, April 9 and April 23. The meetings include snacks, messages of hope, small groups and childcare. The cost to become a MOPS member is $31.95 for the year. For more information, email mopsofwhitleyco@gmail.com or visit Facebook or Instagram @mopsofwhitleyco. • Churubusco Library Board meets at 6 p.m. on the second Monday of each month.

Jan. 9

• South Whitley Town Council hosts their regular meeting 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 hold their regular meeting at 5 p.m. in the Council Chambers in City Hall. The board meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. • Columbia City Common Council will hold their regular meeting at 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers in City Hall. The council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. • Teens Brownies and Building takes place at the South Whitley Community Public Library at 4 p.m. Join the library for brownies and Lego building. • A card making class will be held at the South Whitley Community Public Library at 6 p.m. Linda Minton teaches the class, which will demonstrate making handmade greeting cards. The program cost is $15, to cover materials, and space is limited. Jan. 11

• The Churubusco Chamber of Commerce holds its monthly meeting at noon in the Masonic Lodge. • Chess Club meets at the South Whitley

23 25

Community Public Library at 4:30 p.m. Players of all abilities and ages are welcome. • Kids Brownies and Building takes place at the South Whitley Community Public Library at 4 p.m. Join the library for brownies and Lego building. Jan. 16

• Whitley County Drainage Board meets at 9 a.m. in the Whitley County Government Center. The board meets on the third monday of the month, but will meet on Tuesday due to Martin Luther King Jr. Day. • Whitley County Commissioners will hold their regularly scheduled meeting at 1 p.m. in the Whitley County Government Center. The commissioners meet the first and third Monday of each month, but will meet Tuesday due to Martin Luther King Jr. Day. • The Page Turners book club meets at the South Whitley Community Public Library at 6:30 p.m. The club will discuss Paul Kalanithi’s memoir “When Breath Becomes Air,” during which he wrestles with tough questions about life. Jan. 17

• Tot Tales, an early literacy program with stories, playtime and take-home materials starts at 10:30 a.m. at the South Whitley Community Public Library. Children ages 18 months to five years old are welcome. Pre-registration is required. • Classics at the Library will watch and discuss the 1954 film “Sabrina” at the South Whitley Community Public Library at 12:15 p.m. The film, starring Humphrey Bogart, Audrey Hepburn and William Holden, tells the story of a playboy who becomes interested in the daughter of his family’s chauffeur. Jan. 23

• Teen Passport to Taste takes teens on a tropical getaway to the Bahamas to learn about their culture and food at the South Whitley Community Public Library at 4 p.m. • Local historian Joyce Hart will revisit some of South Whitley’s biggest disasters, including major fires, train wrecks and floods at the South Whitley Community Public Library at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 25

• Chess Club meets at the South Whitley Community Public Library at 4:30 p.m. Players of all abilities and ages are welcome. • Kid’s Passport to Taste takes teens on a tropical getaway to the Bahamas to learn about their culture and food at the South Whitley Community Public Library at 4 p.m.

SGCS faces difficult funding decisions By Nicole Minier nminier@kpcmedia.com

CHURUBUSCO — Smith-Green Community School’s administrators called a public forum in early December to discuss the financial future of the district. The district is operating in the red, and changes will be made by next summer one way or another — either through a tax increase or by cutting staff and programming. SGCS Superintendent Dan Hile called the meeting to involve the community with the district’s financial issues. Hile and Business Manager Jodi Royer took over their positions in July and, after assessing the financial state of the district, called the meeting to inform the community

Large crowd turned out for early December meeting of the situation, and start a discussion about SGCS’s future. “I hope you know I am very transparent and open — I want it on the table,” Hile said. “It’s very important to have everyone here together to hear this information, we really need some input.” For the past two months, SGCS has contracted with Umbaugh and Associates to predict the financial future for the district based on enrollment, funding per child and long term factors. Since 2011, school funding has decreased at Smith-Green, due to both changes in state funding and decreasing student enrollment. Much of school funding is based

on the number of students enrolled at the district on its enrollment count day — Sept. 15. Demographers predict enrollment will continue to decline based on the district’s demographics — there aren’t as many school-aged children in Smith and Green townships. SGCS has been relying on rainy day fund money to get by, and that money is now depleted. Currently, the district has a cash balance of $279,218 — which wouldn’t cover half of one month’s expenses. The consultant from Umbaugh offered three scenarios for referendum funding — one that would barely get the district

through 2026, one that would provide 15 percent cash reserves and one that shows the maximum amount of money needed. “The first time I saw this information my eyes got bigger,” Hile said. “But I’m a lay-it-on-the-table kind of person. I want you to see what I see and help us with the next step.” Hile explained that the district has made significant cuts over the past five to 10 years, including a staff cut of $450,000. Hile reported that 40 percent of districts in 2016 spend more money than they received, and rural schools are especially struggling to stay afloat. “We can’t stick our heads in the sand and say

it will be OK — it won’t be OK,” Hile said. “Something has to change.” Hile asks the community to review the referendum options — or a version of them — and consider if it will be a viable option to residents. Otherwise, some major changes will come to SGCS; deep, major budget cuts. Eventually, SGCS likely wouldn’t be able to stay afloat, and bigger changes could be made — but consolidation is not what Hile wants to see. “Are we consolidating? I hope you hear where my heart is on this — no,” Hile said, followed by a round of applause by the audience. “It’s not what I

want, but again, I will put it on the table. If we have an option, that’s Option Z, only if we have nothing left. I will fight and do everything to avoid that option.” However, Hile addressed the reality of the funding. If SGCS continues on its current trajectory and cuts to staff and programming have to be made, the district will be less appealing and parents could choose to send their children elsewhere. Currently, 174 students transfer into Smith-Green — they live outside the school district boundaries. “They come here because of the great things we do — we want to keep that going,” Hile said. “Making cuts would reverse that trend the other way.”

A20 • INwhitleycounty.com

Whitley County • December 28, 2017

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