Technology
Photos by Nick Fiala
New and more innovative models for traditional farm equipment, manufactured by John Deere and others, are being rolled out by businesses, such as Castongia Tractor and Bane-Welker.
New farm technology makes ag life easier By Nick Fiala reporter@rensselaerrepublican.com
Our traditional picture of the American farmer may soon be changing, along with the equipment that they use to work the fields. Bryan Overstreet, Purdue Agriculture’s Extension Educator for Jasper County, helped to shed light on how these changes have emerged from the needs and desires of our local land-laborers. One such area is “precision agriculture,” otherwise known as “satellite farming” or “site specific crop management,” where specific observation methods are used to decide how to deal with certain varieties of crops. “The precision agriculture has gotten a lot more specific and more detailed in the last five to 10 years,” Overstreet said. “New planting machines let them do variable rates of planting. If they have the right planter, they can even change varieties or hybrids that they’re planting across the fields.” Chris Meding, Sales Manager of Castongia Tractor (recently renamed from Castongia’s), agreed with Overstreet. He spoke of how relatively new tractor features, such as display screens, are being improved to give farmers more and more specific information about what they’re accomplishing in the field, as soon as they want it. “Customers want to be more precise with exactly what they can do
with their machines,” he said. “They’re trying to find a machine that tells them their speed, how much fuel they’re consuming, how much weight they’re pulling and how much horsepower they have left on their machine to utilize.” One newer machine that may address some of these issues is the 4-Track 9RX Series Tractor from John Deere. Its highlight features are large, metal tracks that should improve comfort levels and field performance. “Production started last year, so it’s fairly new,” Meding said. “They haven’t made very many of them. It’s a smoother ride through the field. And it’s giving you a bigger footprint which means less compaction, which is something farmers are looking at. They don’t want to put a lot of compaction in the fields, because, when they’re coming through and putting their seed in the ground, compaction can reduce the yield by causing stress on the plant.” Overstreet also commented on an area of scientific advancement in planting that has proven controversial. That area is the genetic engineering done to certain organisms to give them desired characteristics artificially. These are known as Genetically-Modified Organisms or GMOs. Many are suspicious of GMOs, believing that their modified state puts them at risk of carrying harmful traits. But Overstreet insists GMOs are safe, more so than other methods used to condition and pro-
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John Deere Tractor Models line the fields outside of Castongia Tractor in Rensselaer. tect a farmer’s produce. “It’s not too much of an issue between farmers,” he said. “In my opinion, it’s a lot safer to have a GMO than it is to have insecticide sprayed on your product, or in your food. In all of the studies they’ve done, they haven’t found anything harmful, as opposed to insecticides, where they’ve done thousands of studies which show they can be
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harmful. If it was your kid, would you rather have him work that GMO field that’s not going to hurt him or go out and work around the insecticide?” Mechanical innovations are also improving labor conditions on farms, something that many career
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TECHNOLOGY
MARCH, 2016
Library uses technology to better reach, serve patrons By Caitlin Sievers csievers@rensselaerrepublican. com
The Jasper County Public Library continues to utilize technology in new ways in order to better reach as well as better serve its patrons. Jasper County Public Library Director, Patty Stringfellow, has seen the technology used at the libraries change drastically since she started there 19 years ago. Although the library had a computerized catalogue, it was not online and could only be accessed from library computers. When Sheila Maxwell, systems administrator, started at the library at the same time, workers didn’t even have access to email but were requesting it. Times have changed in the last two decades. The library now has a big social media presence and allows its patrons free wireless access. “Technology touches everything that we do,” Stringfellow said. “There isn’t anything that we do that technology isn’t some way involved.” Although the library strives to utilize new tech, its leaders are thoughtful about the tools they use. “We aren’t typically first-adopters, so we select technology that’s been put through its paces and the bugs have been worked out but we try to keep pace with our patrons and their needs,” Stringfellow said. “It’s an art.”
File Photos
Top: Samantha Williams plays Roblox on a Rensselaer library computer. Right: Holly Joseph and Jacob Joseph check out materials at the Rensselaer library. Stringfellow and her staff put a lot of thought into choosing technology that meets the community’s needs and enhances the library’s services. “If it doesn’t do those things, we’re not going to add it, because we have a limited budget,” Stringfellow said.
With that in mind, the libraries have made many technological updates within the past few years. All of the three Jasper County libraries, in DeMotte, Wheatfield and Rensselaer are equipped See LIBRARY, Pg. C5
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MARCH, 2016
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Schools transition to tech-based learning By Nicole Cox Correspondent
High-end technology is everywhere you look these days. In your pocket, in your car, on your desk, in your television, the way you listen to music and most definitely in our schools. Schools have always found a way to offer some sort of technological learning experience. It has been common for about three decades now to have a computer lab offered and a television brought in, occasionally, to a classroom. But things have been changing in the last few years and students are not learning in the same, traditional way of books in backpacks and pen on paper. Schools across the country feel it is time to keep up with the technologically-savvy world. Students across the country are trading in books and paper for carrying around one device that allows them to learn, do their homework, and take tests. That device can either be an iPad, tablet, laptop, or a Chromebook. According to educationnews.com, students in more than 2,000 school districts across the country are using electronic devices to aid education. In this new style, students are learning their lessons with the help of apps and programs that the whole classroom and teacher use. According to the Securedge Network, “Apple is pushing for iPad use in education and several schools in the United States are taking them up on it.” Securedge Network has done many studies showing the effects this learning has on students and teachers. A research study in Auburn, Maine showed that kindergarten students using iPads scored higher on literacy tests than students who did not. The University of California Irvine Medical school said that the iPad equipped students scored 23 percent higher on national exams than unequipped classes. 75 percent of the students agree that the iPad enhanced their learning. So what’s going on in our neck of the woods? About two years ago, the North Newton school system transitioned into iPad learning. One teacher said it is interesting because teachers
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Kankakee Valley High School students use their Chromebooks during class. can now email students through the homework programs equipped into the iPad and if an assignment changes, she can let the students know once they have left school. If students need help, they are also in contact with their teacher through the iPad. The South Newton school system has transitioned to laptops that the students bring back and forth to school. Students there can download their books to the laptop and send in their homework to the teacher. The Kankakee Valley School Corp. and the M.S.D. of Boone Township schools are working to be 1:1 schools. 1:1 means that the school system can provide each and every student with a device that they can use anytime, anywhere. These devices will become their personal devices for school and home to learn on, conduct research on, do homework on, and take tests on. The Kankakee Valley School Corporation is taking part in a digital conversion they call “Kougar Konnect.” The school is in the process of putting together a three-year technology plan where parents are encouraged to submit suggestions and comments to rheid@kv.k12.in.us. All students in
next year’s sixth and seventh grade classes are set to be issued Chromebooks. The K.V. school system has a Learning Management System in place and the systems “Schoology,” for grades 6-12, and “Google Classroom,” for K-5, have been chosen as K.V’s LMS. “A LMS helps students and teachers have a set of tools and a central location for each class. In Aug. of last year grades 8 and 9 were issued 600 new Dell Chromebooks and 900 Samsung Chromebooks were returned to the 10-12 graders. Students have a calendar that shows assignments and tests in all of the classrooms, the ability to have group chats with the members of the class, and access digital resources that the teacher uploads and more. “All is password protected to safeguard our students,” says the technology plan on the Kankakee Valley School Corp. website. The M.S.D. of Boone Township is part of the 1:1 program and hopes to expand personal technology to the lower grades as well. The technology program in Hebron started in August of 2014. Before then the high school
had been using Chromebooks and the 8th graders used Dell laptops. Presently, the 7-12th-graders use Chromebooks, the 6th graders use Dell Laptops and the elementary has a wheeled cart of Chromebooks that can be shared between classrooms. Superintendent Dr. Nathan Kleefisch believes that technological learning has become more effective than traditional learning. “We are using contemporary tools that are used to expand the walls of the classroom. Kids are technologically savvy and these devices offer a microscope into the world, I think if kids are assigned homework, they are now in charge of opening up a variety of resources. And as we move forward, there will be less dependence on textbook and paper,” said Kleefisch. In the last year, the M.S.D. of Boone Twp. has been making progress by planning to expand the 1:1 program every year. “When I started (at M.S.D.) only the 8-12th graders had technology in use. The plan now is to go one grade lower with technology See SCHOOLS, Pg. C6
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TECHNOLOGY
MARCH, 2016
Photos by Nick Fiala
Top left: The new 4-Track 9RX tractor model. Top right: John Deere standard tractor models. Left: Wide and doubled-up wheels provide a smoother tractor ride with less compaction. Right: Updated computer screens in tractors provide good information quicker to farmers.
Farm
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farmers are very appreciative of. “Most of these guys do well on adapting.” Overstreet said. “It’s less labor-intensive. We don’t have nearly the number of kids helping on the farm and things like that, which we used to. So, having to do less intense manual labor is something that’s welcome to older farmers. The harvest equipment has become more efficient and does a better job harvesting the crop with fewer losses in the field. The equipment’s getting larger, so that we can handle more bushels of the crop at harvest faster and easier. They’re doing more of the seed by bulk, so that you’re physically handling less of the seed with bags. You can get a 100 pound box of seed, instead of a bunch of 25 or 50 pound bags. In the last 10 years, you see a lot more of that than you used to. You put it all in one tank or bin, and it divides it out across the whole planter, instead of you having to move all of those bags.” Overstreet also mentioned a technology that most of us wouldn’t think of at first when picturing farm equipment. “Another thing that has changed in the last few
years is the use of drones,” he said. “Farmers can scout crops with them, and look at the crops in a faster and more efficient way. It’s still an emerging technology, and part of the issue is working with the FCC and getting the approval. I think we’re getting close to being able to do that, being able to get permits to fly them, etc. Some of it is about being the proper distance from airports. You have to follow the rules of being able to see the drone at all times, so it really takes a couple of people, one to run it, one to watch it. With some of them you have to actually have a pilot’s license in order to be the one controlling it. It depends on the size of the drone and what you’re doing with it.” Another part of recent agricultural development is how the average age of farmers is shifting. According to agcensus.usda.gov, the average age of the American farmer in 2012 was roughly 58
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years old. However, there are signs of hope that more younger farmers are emerging. The economy has been a significant factor in this. “In the last few years, we’ve had some new young farmers,” Overstreet said. “Economically, this year and last year have been kind of rough, but we’ve been having pretty good years for farmers for the last 10 years, until now. Back when the prices were good, they were a lot more optimistic. Here in Jasper County, we’ve got several who are in their late 20s or early 30s who have come back to join their parents’ farms again.” Meding was also optimistic about younger farmers. “We have farmers in their 20s and 30s,” Meding said. “There’s customers all over. Actually, what I’ve seen is that the age of the average farmer has probably been dropping. Our average customer has been getting younger.”
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Library with wireless internet. “The amount of wireless use has grown exponentially in the last few years,” Stringfellow said. One of the library’s largest recent endeavors was a pilot project that provides digital access library cards to students in the county. These cards allow students and school faculty access to the library’s databases and e-books remotely without the requirement of possessing a traditional library card. A companion to this project is the library’s student portal, which was created by Melissa Widner, the library’s databases coordinator. This portal can be reached through the library’s website and allows students access to some of the library’s resources and databases. “I think the digital access card service is greatly enhanced by the portal that Mel created because it’s inviting, it’s clearly organized and it was created with them in mind,” Stringfellow said. In addition to its offerings for students, the library hosts monthly computer classes at each of its sites, using its mobile computer lab, which is comprised of 10 laptops. Classes offered at the library include an introduction to computing class as well as advanced classes in Word and Excel. On a limited basis, the library staff offers some one-on-one help for individuals who need assistance with their devices or need help figuring out how to access the library’s e-books. The library offers thousands of e-books to its patrons, but is unable to offers all of its books digi-
GAINING GROUND PROGRESS C5
From C- 2
Photo by Caitlin SieverS
Betty Porter, Frank Conley and Tayjoun Conley work on library computers at the Rensselaer branch. tally due to publishing agreements as well as the cost. The cost for libraries to buy e-books is much more than for the average patron and several are limited-use contracts. “We have a collection that we share with other libraries throughout the state,” Widner said. The library offers more than 16,000 books through its consortium with other libraries. In addition to that, the library offers additional books purchased by the library just for local patrons, which supplements the consortium’s
books. “We try to balance that out,” Stringfellow said. “The goal being that when patrons are looking for something, they’re going to find a copy of it.” The county’s libraries continue to offer more and more services to its patrons using new technology. “There’s very few things that we have stopped doing that we were doing when I came on board 19 years ago,” Stringfellow said. She believes this is possible, because of the staff’s willingness and energy, because it takes work and creativity. “I’m in awe of the
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things we get done around here and the things that we’ve learned,” Stringfellow said. The library also does a lot to reach its patrons through social media, using Facebook. “We are definitely out there and engaged with our clients, not just locally but those that are out of state who might need help with genealogy, local history,” Stringfellow said. Library workers can now be reached through many different pathways, besides just the phone or a
visit to the library. The library utilizes Flickr, Pinterest, Instagram and has a few videos on YouTube. Over the past decade or so, the library has worked to digitize its special collections. This includes the library’s local history collection, featuring original documents that have been scanned and can be accessed online. Widner explained that her predecessor got a grant to have collections digitized at the Indiana University Library. These
included hand written letters by local Civil War general Milroy. “There have been countless scholars that have used that collection to write a dissertation,” Stringfellow said. Stringfellow knows that the library continues to be as committed as ever to serving its patrons, online as well as in person. “I think we’re still reaching them as we used to, just in a different way,” Stringfellow said. “We’re meeting them where they are.”
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TECHNOLOGY
MARCH, 2016
Pros and cons to new tech in track and field By Caitlin Sievers csievers@rensselaerrepublican.com
Technological advancements affect all aspects of life. In this constantly changing world, everyone has an opinion about the benefits and detriments of certain technological advancements. Included are advancements in sports technology, which can be a help or a hindrance, depending on who you ask. Bill Massoels, athletic director at Saint Joseph’s College, has some strong opinions about how technology affect his sport, track and field. The most recently implemented technology in track and field is called Eagle Eye. The Eagle Eye system places a camera at every take-off point, for horizontal jumps, showing if the jump is fair or foul. This technology is only used if the official is uncertain if there was a foul or not, he or she can use Eagle Eye. It cannot be used for every protest. However, if a coach protests, but the official does not think it was a foul, Eagle Eye cannot be
used. “That’s going to create a lot of problems,” Massoels said. “Especially at division one.” He believes that Purdue will eventually use Eagle Eye at its normal season meets. Although the technology can be run frame by frame, it is still subjective. “You’re still going to have discrepancies,” Massoels said. “You still have human nature involved.” He believes this technology is simply taking one problem and creating another, but if used correctly it could enhance track and field. Not many schools have Eagle Eye at this point, because it is very At many college meets, jumping expensive. cial in longer throwing In division two, the events like the discus, only time Eagle Eye is the hammer, the javebeing used is at the lin, as opposed to runnational championning out with a 200-foot ships. In division one, Massoels think it is like- tape measure,” Massoels said. ly used at some of the This could shorten bigger meets. the time it takes to get Massoels believes results in a meet. this technology will catch on, much the way “The drawback is, it’s laser measuring for dis- very expensive,” tance and and throwing Massoels said. “A laser technologist is thoudid when it was first sands of dollars, a tape used around 12 years measure is 50 bucks.” ago, starting out at the The most recently national championpopular technology ships. affecting track and field “That’s really benefi-
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and throwing events are measured using a laser instead of a measuring tape. is mile counting softwar. This invention is useful in some ways, because it lets the runner know exactly how far he’s traveled. But on cloudy days, when satellites can’t get a good link, and the tech doesn’t work so well. “Distance running especially is a rhythm event, so if you’re married to your watch, you’re not figuring out how to run,” Massoels said. “You’re allowing technology to dictate
how you run.” He believes that this technology takes away from the pureness of the sport. “You run for the sheer enjoyment of it, but when you’re married to an apparatus, you’re no longer running for the sheer enjoyment, you’re running to see, how far have I run? How fast have I run?” Massoels said. “That shouldn’t be the end-all be-all. There needs to be some level of sport.”
Although Massoels has some strong feelings about mile counting software, he believes that technological advances in general contribute positively to track and field. “Technology comes out in any sport to make the game better and the hope is to speed up how quickly we can get results,” Massoels said. “Athletics has to change with technology to become successful. Again, I think some are good and some are bad.”
From C- 3
each year,” said Kleefisch. The hope is that the 5th-graders will be getting Dell laptops and the 6th-graders will start using Chromebooks with the older students. Eventually, the school district hopes to have the 3rd-12th-graders on
1:1 technology. The school system is also “constantly upgrading” their building so that it is technologically advanced and can accommodate an upgrading wireless system. The system must stay advanced so that it can
accommodate the overload of every student being on the system. “Technology is the wave of the future and essential for keeping up with the times…prog-
ress is advancement and reaching for your goals and technology is essential for students to clearly expand understanding,” said Kleefisch.
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ON-CALL SERVICE AVAILABLE 24/7 I-65 & SR 114 • Rensselaer • 219-866-3831
C8 GAINING GROUND PROGRESS
MARCH, 2016
A Family Restaurant and Sports Bar has a personal invitation for you. “SP-19 is not just a Sports Bar or a restaurant for Golfers. I am proud that it is a Family Oriented Restaurant that happens to also include Golfers and Sports enthusiasts. You can watch the game and still enjoy spending time with the family. Our restaurant is very fortunate to have a Chef of Brian Volk’s experience and integrity. Each meal is prepared with our customers in mind and it is the freshest and best quality ingredients available. Our Chef offers a unique menu with the latest gourmet trends and delicious, made to order meals. From the appetizers to the kids menu, there is something for everyone. Our bar is top grade. We offer 3 Floyds, Indiana Crafted Beers and the usual favorites. Our Martini of the Week is a hit with the customers as well as other signature drinks. I invite you to come and bring your family to SP-19. You will love it.”
Eric Van Kley, Manager of SP-19 American Kitchen
Chef Brian Volk has been the head chef at SP-19 American Kitchen for six years. He is a Wheatfield native and is mostly self taught. He has taken culinary courses to improve on his technique. He works hard to make the best meals from his kitchen, many with families in mind. Chef Volk changes the menu every so often just to keep people interested and to offer new items for the guests. He does trials on some of his ideas to see how people like them and if they think it should be added to the menu. He enjoys sharing his ideas with the restaurant guests and getting their opinions. He is planning a new spring menu for April. If you haven’t been in for awhile, get in and try something new! The restaurant is open to the public, as is the golf course itself. They even offer a gluten free selection including an excellent pizza. “ I take pride in using the freshest ingredients that we can. Everything is made in house. Every order is made to order. For instance the lettuce on our amazing House Salad is chopped right before serving. We also offer Gluten Free items on our menu for those that need it. And, it is all very carefully done, in that it never touches anything that could keep it from being Gluten Free. People are sensitive and I know that. I do come out and check with my customers to find out what they like and what they need. Our menu changes about every three months to reflect those needs.” - CHEF BRIAN VOLK
Front House Manager, John Seberger is very proud of the house specialty drinks which include the Moscow Mule made with vodka, lime and a ginger beer. It’s smooth and tastes like a fine ginger ale and is delicious. The Blueberry Lemon Drop martini, one of their specialties, is made with blueberry vodka, simple syrup, lemon and comes with sugar on the rim of the glass. The bar at SP19 offers a new flavored martini each week. “We are proud to offer Craft Beers including 2 types of 3 Floyds (a very popular beer). The Bar will also sell a 6 pack to Golfers who are heading out on the Course. We offer a flavored Martini of the Week such as The Milky Way and Almond Joy. I appreciate that SP-19 is a fun place to work and a fun place to come in and hang out for a while.” - JOHN SEBERGER, FRONT HOUSE MGR.
Pavilion and Events Manager, Julie Kistler explains that The Pavilion is so pretty and such a special place to hold a Wedding, Shower, Graduation Open House or Corporate Business Events. It is all inclusive meaning they take care of the catering, set up and everything. The Bridal House on the property is available for the Bride and Groom with each having their own suite. There is even mini salon for the Bride to use. The Pavilion also caters to the house. The Pavilion is seasonal from May through October. The dates fill up quickly so get your reservations in as quickly as possible by calling 219-670-3766. There is seating for up to 200 guests. “At The Pavilion, when you book your Special Event with us, we make sure your day is perfect. We go beyond what you expect. You have my promise that I will give you that personal touch.” - JULIE KISTLER, SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR FOR THE PAVILION
Sandy Pines Golf Club
10527 Bunker Drive, DeMotte
(219) 987-3674 NEW WINTER HOURS: Mon.: Closed Tues.-Thurs.: 11AM - 10PM; Fri.: 11AM-12AM; Sat.: 7AM - 12AM Sun: 7AM - 9PM Open for Breakfast on Saturday and Sunday
TECHNOLOGY
MARCH, 2016
GAINING GROUND PROGRESS C9
High tech comes to dairy farming By Cheri Shelhart editor@kvpost.net
The Bos Dairy in Fair Oaks uses robots to milk the 700 cows in its newest barn. The cows are free to wander the facility, eat, chew their cud and walk into the robotic milker when they are ready to unload. Tony Bos said the farm has 12 robotic milkers, including the Astronaut automatic milking machine from a company in the Netherlands. The robotic milkers milk one cow every seven minutes, around the clock. Each cow gets milked 3.2 times in a 24 hour period. When a cow enters the milker, it is given a pellet high in energy and protein that cows like. It is more of an incentive to come to the milkers for the cows. The robotic milkers use laser sights to locate the cows’ four udders after each udder is thoroughly washed twice before being hooked to the milking machine. Once the machine has found and secured the milkers to each of the cow’s teats, it begins the process of milking the cow, just as they do in facilities where a worker cleans the udders and attaches the milking mechanism. When the milking is done, the machine moves away and the cow walks out of the milking stall to go back A cow, ready to be milked, enters the milking area on its own. It to sleep or eat or visit with the other ladies. If the ear alerts the dispense the treat. The a cow thinks she’ll get machine that this cow cow will wander away one of the pellet treats does not need to be when no pellet is and doesn’t yet need to milked and it will not offered. be milked, a chip on
Photo by Cheri Shelhart
receives a pellet treat when it gets milked by the robotic milker. The chips allow the machines to keep track of how often the cows are milked and how much is milk is received from each cow. The robotic milkers, initially an expensive investment, save money for the dairy. Bos said he has no full-time people working in the robotics barn. His herdsman makes sure the cows are fed just like the others on the
farm. Workers are needed to clean the area the cows hang out in and to do routine maintenance on the machines. The rest is taken care of automatically. The barn was built by the Hamstra Group and was completed in October of 2015. It has computer controlled temperature and ventilation control and digitally monitored feeding adjustments for the
Phone Toll Free 800-487-7650 Barb Morgin, ABR, CRB, CRS, GRI Broker Owner
Visit our Website morginhomes.com
Mobile: 219-712-6116 E-Mail: bmorgin@gmail.com
herds diet and health. The Bos Robotic Dairy building is 109,000 square feet. According to a newsletter produced by The Hamstra Group, the benefits of the robotic dairy include reduction of human labor, milking consistency (less stress on the udder and more comfort for the See Dairy, Pg. C13
Spring/Summer 2016 Janet Nannenga, Broker Associate Mobile: 219-921-3549 E-Mail: janetnannenga@gmail.com
We have all the tools to help you BUY or SELL, No Games Just Results for 30 years!
ILLINOIS: 708-895-0006 | INDIANA: 219-365-0006 | DEMOTTE: 219-987-2107 | ILLIANAHEATING.NET
WithAWARDS Awards BLESSEDBlessed WITH
Illiana Heating and Air Conditioning was recently honored in two
Illiana Heating and Air Conditioning recently honored separate industry publications. In was the January 25 issue in oftwo The separate publications. In thenamed JanuaryThe 25 issue The News, we were honored by being 2015 of Best News, weindustry Contractor to by Work Fornamed in theThe Central in the February were honored being 2015US, Bestand Contractor to Work For we were named 2016 Residential issue Contracting in the of Central US, and Business in the February issue of Contracting Businesswe HVACnamed Contractor the Year.HVAC Contractor of the Year. were 2016 of Residential
Recognitionbybyindustry industryinsiders insiders speaks volumes for the Recognition speaks volumes for the hardhard work and work and high standards that Illiana strives to achieve on both high standards that Illiana strives to achieve on both sides of the sides of the business. business. Employees at Illiana HVAC enjoy a family-like atmosphere, and
Employees at employees Illiana HVAChave enjoybeen a family-like manyInof many of the here foratmosphere, more than 5and years. the have been hereoffortheir more than 5working years. Infor fact, someThe fact,employees some have spent most career Illiana. articles highlight benefits doingfor things “the Illiana way”. have spent most ofthe their career of working Illiana. The articles highlight the benefits things “the Illiana way”. Being recognized as of thedoing Residential Contractor of the Year means
that other business experts have reviewed waymeans of doing Being recognized as the Residential ContractorIlliana’s of the Year that business, customer service and future plans and deemed them other experts reviewed Illiana’sway of doing business, one ofbusiness the best. Illianahave is constantly looking at ways to improve customer service and future plans deemed one of the best. how we do business and how weand provide forthem our customers. Illiana is constantly looking at ways to improve how we do business You can discover more and read the stories at our website under and how we provide for our customers. the “In the News” section
You canin discover more the stories our website under the Earlier the year we and wereread honored to beatselected as the Best “In the News” section. company in the region as well as the Angie’s Heating and Cooling
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List Super Service award is presented to lessasthan 5% of all Earlier in the year we werethat honored to be selected the Best Heating contractors that are reviews on the site.as the Angie’s List Super and Cooling company in the region as well Customers likethat youis make all oftothis Service award presented lesspossible than 5%and of allworthwhile contractorsand that we reviews thank you for your are on the site. continued support and encouragement Customers like you make all of this possible and worthwhile and we thank you for your continued support and encouragement.
C10 GAINING GROUND PROGRESS
TECHNOLOGY
MARCH, 2016
More space at new Rensselaer fire station By Jake Tapper Correspondent
The city of Rensselaer looks to continue moving forward with a new and improved fire station. Equipped with various features and additions, the station will be a staple for the city in years to come. For the first time, the department has room to fit all of its equipment into one building. As of right now, storage sheds and other locations are used to house different things, but with the new station it will all be under the same roof. With the addition of a basement for storage, as well as more rooms and space in the new facility, the station will have the ability and room in the future to expand if necessary. The new station, located on Clark Street, near Kirby Risk, also brings dedicated training rooms and also some much needed space. The current training room is cut in half and shared with the kitchen, while at the new station, both training rooms have adequate space for inhouse training and the larger of the two may be Photo by harley tomlinson used for shared meetings The new Rensselaer Fire Station, which will be completed this spring, will house all of the Rensselaer Volunteer Fire Department’s equipment in one location. and is designed to handle sleeping or rehab quarters as well. Continuing on with more space, the truck bay is now much larger, also allowing for the convenience of “driving through” main vehicles to the scene, which in turn may result in quicker response times. An area solely for washing gear and self contained breathing apparatus maintenance and repair is now in place as well. At the current station, the air packs are refilled in the truck bay and it is a tight fit. Rensselaer’s new fire station will also include a few dedicated rooms that the old station did not possess. A much-needed radio room is in place, where should it ever be needed, Rensselaer Fire would be able to dispatch itself, as well as EMS or the police. Also, in the event of a natural disaster (such as a tornado), city hall could and most likely would be relocated to the fire station for the time being. A library is in-house now for quick and easy access to all training materials the department currently has available. Smart boards amongst other equipment will now be included in training in an effort to be able to reach the needs of any existing and up and coming firefighters to the station and to allow for more in-house training overall. Currently, firefighters may need to travel to Remington or elsewhere for certain classes provided by the state. With the new station, the goal is to do close to if not all of this training under one roof moving forward. A weight room has also been added in-house. Right now, many of the firefighters work out at 24/7 Club Fit or Anytime Fitness. With the weight room at the new station, everyone can stay in shape and be ready to roll out with ease from the same location. Also, three separate offices are part of the new station’s design, which is much needed seeing as the officers and fire chief all currently share one at the old station. A larger kitchen area will make things more efficient for big events in town such as the annual pancake breakfast. It will be easier to carry things in and out and have room to move around See FIRE, Pg. C14
TECHNOLOGY
MARCH, 2016
GAINING GROUND PROGRESS C11
Kankakee Valley Publishing offers website design, digital services By Caitlin Sievers csievers@rensselaerepublican.com
It’s important for every business to have a web presence, and Kankakee Valley Publishing, the owner of the Kankakee Valley Post News and Rensselaer Republican is making that happen for its clients. Kankakee Valley Publishing’s digital division, which designs websites for the newspapers’ clients, was launched in January 2014. “It was an opportunity for our local newspapers to further serve their clients,” said general manager of the Rensselaer Republican, Greg Perrotto. In the last 18 months, the Kankakee Valley digital team has built three websites for entities in Jasper County, including Oak Ridge Jewelers, the Jasper County Airport and the Greater Rensselaer Chamber of Commerce. “What that tells me is, people are seeing the value in our different services,” Perrotto said. Regular customers of the Kankakee Valley Post and Rensselaer Republican know they can trust the teams there to be responsive to their needs and to respond quickly to their concerns. “Our customers know us and trust us,” Perrotto said. Although Perrotto said that he absolutely believes in the power of print and its reach, it’s important for businesses and other entities to reach their clients in a variety of ways, including digitally. “This would not have been possible without our sales representatives, Cindy Teeter and Sally Snow,” Perrotto said. “We’re very proud of them.” Teeter worked with the Greater Rensselaer Chamber to determine its wants and requirements for its website and then worked with the digital team to make it happen. “I think it was the best investment that the chamber has ever made,” said Teeter, who is the
The Jasper County Airport launched its website in December 2015.
See WEBSITE, Pg. C15
Your Day Begins With A Farmer For memories that last a lifetime... Signature Banquets is a setting truly worthy of your celebration.
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2 Ballrooms, up to 300 guests. Embrace the simplicity of having your wedding desires met to perfection. Signature Banquets has raised the bar and is setting new standards of excellence in making your affair, the affair to remember. Call for an appointment to take a tour of our new facility.
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We feel that we are in the perfect position to offer drivers exactly what they value. Our business is small enough that we operate in a team environment while we get to know each other personally, however; we are large enough to be a major industry player. Do you want to be part of an elite fleet and drive equipment that is second to none? Would you like to develop personal relationships with colleagues rather than being “just a number”? Smith Transport may just be the perfect home for your talents as a professional driver. Interested in Driving for Smith? Give us a call at 866-265-3718 or click here to apply online at www.smithdrivers.com
C12 GAINING GROUND PROGRESS
MARCH, 2016
Area Church Directory Town of DeMotte Bethel Christian Reformed
9991 W 1200 N, DeMotte, IN 46310 219.987.5156 www.first.church
521 S. Halleck St. DeMotte, IN 46310 (219) 987-2005 bethelcrc@netnitco.net www.bethelcrcdemotte.org Services each Sunday at 9:30 a.m. & 6 p.m.
Worship Service at 9:00 am & 10:30 am Two Worship Services April 5- May 3 9:00 am and 10:30 am
“GEMS” & CADETS 7PM 1ST & 3RD WEEDNESDAYS
Visit website for coming events
WATCH WEBSITE FOR UPCOMING EVENTS
COMING JULY 11-15, 2016 VBS “EGYPT” 6-8:30PM WATCH FOR SIGN-UPS ON WEB
First Christian Reformed
814 N. Halleck St., DeMotte, IN 46310 (219) 987-2771 www.communitybiblechurchdemotte.com
Pastor Rodney Tolleson Adult Bible Fellowship and Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship Service 10:45 a.m. AWANA Children’s Club Wednesday Nights 6:30 p.m.
American Reformed Church
1633 S. Halleck St., DeMotte, IN 46310 (219) 987-2586 www.1stcrcdemotte.org
Calvary Assembly of God Rt. 10 & 700 W • DeMotte
(219) 987-4280
Pastor Laryn Zoerhof • Pastor Kyle Sanford Morning Worship at 9:30 a.m. Sunday School at 11 a.m. Evening Worship at 6 p.m.
Community Bible Church
Pastor James D. Clark Sunday School 9:00 am • Sunday Worship 10:00 am Wed Family Night 7:00 pm Adult Bible Study, Missionettes, Royal Rangers and Youth Group
1021 S. Halleck, DeMotte 987-5115 Sunday Morning Worship 9:30am Sunday School 10:45 am Youth Fellowship 5:00 pm Evening Worship 6:00 pm
Wheatfield Full Gospel Tabernacle Route 49, Wheatfield, IN 46392 (219) 956-4206
Sorrowful Mother Catholic Church 165 S. Grace St., Wheatfield, IN 46392 (219) 956-3343
Pastor Kenneth Patrick Sunday School at 9:45 a.m. Worship Service at 11 a.m.
Father Paul Cochran Masses: Saturday 5 p.m., Sunday 8 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Confessions heard Saturdays at 4:00 p.m.
COMMUNITY CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH 10498 N. 450 E., DeMotte, IN 46310 SERVE Project June 27 - July 1, 2016 Free Labor for Home Repairs sponsored by Community Church, Roselawn (must meet income guidelines)
Projects are completed by volunteer church youth groups and their adult leaders . All work will be monitored for quality and safety. Work teams can do painting inside and out, wheel chair ramps, porch repair, insulation, and other kinds of home improvements. Teams are not able to do electrical or plumbing.
Call church office for an application or more information, 219-345-3388
Rensselaer St. Augustine Catholic Church
Trinity United Methodist Church Sunday Services 8:00 a.m. Worship Service 9:00 a.m. Fellowship Time 9:15 a.m. Sunday School for all ages 10:30 a.m. Worship Service
Father Donald Davison CPPS
Mass Saturday 5pm Sunday 7:30am, 10am
St. John’s Lutheran Church
318 N. McKinley Ave. Rensselaer, IN 866-5351
2723 N. 700 W • Rensselaer 1.5 Miles North of Hwy. 14 on 700 W 297-3556
www.saugustine.org
Rev. David Mueller Sunday Worship 10:45 am COME VISIT US
107 E. Angelica Street, Rensselaer, IN Pastor John Hostetter Phone: 219-866-7271 Email: rensselaertrinity@embarqmail.com Website: rensselaertrinityumc.org
Rensselaer Church of the Nazarene 200 S. McKinley Avenue 219-866-8243 219-863-7534 Rev. Lisa Ulrich, Pastor Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship 10:30 a.m. Tuesday Bible Study 1:30 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study & Prayer 7:00 p.m. Rensselaer Nazarene on Facebook
St. Luke Evangelical Lutheran Church Pastor Benjamin Hertel Sunday Worship Service 8 a.m. Bible Study and Sunday School 9:15 a.m.
704 E. Grace St., Rensselaer 866-7681
These area churches invite you to worship with them
TECHNOLOGY
MARCH, 2016
GAINING GROUND PROGRESS C13
Photos by Cheri shelhart
A laser site finds the cow’s udder, then the suction cups are attached. One udder is connected, while the other is still searching for its teat. The cow waits patiently for the machine to hook up and relieve it of its milk load.
Dairy From C-9
cow), lower herd stress and data collection aiding in everything from diet adjustments to health management. Kevin Vander Molen, the Hamstra Group’s construction coordinator for the building said, “It was a fascinating project. The clients were smiling when we finished. And this time, so were the cows.” Bos Dairy houses more than 13,000 cows in its dairy facilities. The 700 head that are milked by robots is a small percentage of the dairy. As technology progresses, so will the way these dairies continue to bring fresh milk to the markets.
Above: Cows wait in line to be milked in the automatic milking station. A chip on their ears tells the machine if the cow has recently been milked or not and keeps track of its diet and activities. 102 E. MONTGOMERY ST., FRANCESVILLE, IN 47946 219-567-9177 104 N. HALLECK ST., DEMOTTE, IN 46310 219-987-3141 WWW.GUTWEINAGENCY.COM
Right: Before milking, the machine sprays an antibacterial wash on the udders and the brushes gently scrub the udders so they’re clean. After washing the cow off, the brushes are sprayed and cleaned before the suction is attached.
JT Shrimp, LLC 4836 W 1450 N, Wheatfield, IN
Town of DeMotte 219-987-3831
Fresh Live Homegrown Salt Water Shrimp Ever wonder how shrimp is raised on a farm? Come out to JT Shrimp and get a tour of our facility!
townofdemotte.com
Thursday - Saturday 9-4 or after hours please call
219-987-3809
www.jtshrimp.com
DEBOER FAMILY EYECARE
Calendar of Events April 11 - 15 Leaf Program April 18 - 22 - Hydrant Flushing April 23 - Swim Lesson Sign Up May 28 - Pool Opens June 8 - Movie Night June 15 - Movie Night June 15 - Senior Day June 22 - Movie Night June 29 - Movie Night July 6 - Movie Night Town of DeMotte Community News and Special Events (Official)
609 N. Halleck St., DeMotte, IN 46310
219-987-3673
219-987-5287
Drs. John DeBoer, O.D., Timothy DeBoer, O.D. & Brant T. Molenaar, O.D. Complete Visual Care • Contact Lenses
We Welcome New Patients WE ACCEPT MANY INSURANCE PLANS
“Excellence Driven Disposal Service” • INDUSTRIAL • COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL • RECYCLING
Serving the area for over 30 years
219-987-5313 Republicservices.com
The Jasper County Economic Development Organization, Inc. (JCEDO) was founded as the county-wide economic development entity in 1986 in order to: Strengthen and diversify the local economy, attract quality jobs, and encourage entrepreneurial growth to create opportunities for Jasper County and its residents. JCEDO actively works with our stakeholders across Jasper County to encourage the expansion of existing businesses and the attraction of new business. Jasper County is home to 33,443 people and is: • The leading agrculture producing county in Indiana; • Accessible with 5 interchanges along I-65; • Growing as businesses expand and relocate; • Home to a highly productive and skilled workforce; • Arguably the lowest energy cost area in Indiana; • Committed to low taxes and aggressive incentive programs; • Modern industrial buildings and business parks • Economically strong with a manufacturing/agribusiness base. Jasper County Economic Development Organization, Inc. 223 W. Kellner Boulevard | Rensselaer, IN 47978 | 219.866.3080 info@jaspercountyin.com | www.jaspercountyin.com
TECHNOLOGY
C14 GAINING GROUND PROGRESS
MARCH, 2016
RensselaeR Republican file photos
Above: Firefighters try to contain a fire that was caused by a lightning strike in June 2015. Below: A firefighter works to stop the fire from spreading at a home on Merritt Street in December 2015.
Fire
Fire Chief Kenny Haun replaces an air pack for a fellow firefighter during a fire in Rensselaer in December 2015.
Suburban Propane®
From C-10
instead of tripping over each others feet. In asking fire chief Kenny Haun about the new station he shared, “The design of the new building is incorporating technology to look toward the future and house all of
our equipment,” Haun said. With the design and layout of the new building and the new technology in place, Rensselaer’s potential to move forward in years to come seems inevitable.
PROPANE GAS & WATER CONDITIONING
HWY. 24 WEST • REMINGTON PHONE 261-4286
REMINGTON MEATS
FOX
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Serving Our Community Since 1979
19 W Division St. • Remington, IN • 261-2552
219-261-3595 Remington
508 Harrington St. | Remington 261-2860
Fine Jewelry, Full Service Repairs & Much More
35
YEARS
RUSSELL D. BAILEY Attorney at Law
Oak Ridge Jewelers Since 1992
All Work Done on Premises
Formerly Penninga Sales
Mike Anderson, Owner 219-987-5212
US Hwy 24 W • Remington
Personal • Commerical • Crops
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325 Almond St. SW DeMotte, IN 46310
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Insurance Agency
Custom Butchering • Retail Meats Deer Processing
180 W. Bruel St. / Remington, IN 219-261-4015
ULYAT Trucking
813 South Halleck Street P.O. Box 169 DeMotte, IN 46310
Phone: (219) 987-4200 Fax: (844) 987-4200 Email: russ@russelldbailey.com
AUTO ELECTRIC, INC.
329 N. Halleck Street DeMotte, IN 46310 (219) 987-3400
orj@netnitco.net oakridgejewelers.net
Richard F. Comingore, JD, EA
Auto Repair & Towing
Attorney-At-Law
HOME • AUTO • BUSINESS LIFE • FARM
Rebuild Starters & Alternators • Auto • Truck • Diesel • Marine • Farm 8am - 5pm M-F
351 S. College Rensselaer, IN 47978 800-419-5192 219-866-5192 Fax 219-866-8260
COMPLETE AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE 10024 N. St. Rt. 55 (Rt. 10 & Rt. 55) • Roselawn, IN
219-345-3345
mwinsuranceagency@gmail.com
“Service & Repair At A Price That’s Fair!”
The Law Office of
Richard F. Comingore Criminal Law Income Tax Preparation & Representation Domestic Relations Mediator
www.comingorelaw.com
SERVING NORTHWEST INDIANA
BILL’S AUTOMOTIVE CENTER U-Haul Rental • Custom Exhaust Complete Automotive & Body Repair ASE MASTER TECHS - MINI PARTS STORE
219-866-6746
Bottled Water
28 Years of Serving Our Customers 11901 N. ST. RD. 49, WHEATFIELD, IN
(219) 956-4944
SOFTENERS • IRON & SULFUR FILTERS • SALT DELIVERY SALES • DELIVERY • COOLER RENTAL
209 E. Kellner Blvd. P.O. Box 223 Rensselaer, IN 47978 (219) 866-7988
HOME & COMMERCIAL INSPECTIONS Indiana-Licensed Inspector #HI01500015
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219-742-1309
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616 S. Halleck St. - DeMotte Dan & Laura Walstra, Owners “Serving the Community for 15 Years”
219-987-7355
SALES • SERVICE • INSTALLATION New & Replacement Doors and Operators Residential and Commercial
Affordable Garage Doors, Inc. 1250 W. 180th Lane, Lowell, IN 219-696-4279 • 800-584-5845 www.affordabledoorinc.com
Custom Designed Granite Monuments Markers • Mausoleums • Saddles •Remembrance Lights 621 S. Halleck St. DeMotte, IN 219-987-2323
2404 Roosevelt Rd. Valparaiso, IN 219-531-2717
TECHNOLOGY
MARCH, 2016
Website former chamber president. Prior to the chamber’s website launch last year, it had almost no web presence, with only a Facebook page that was not very active. “It’s time-consuming stuff that nobody really had time to volunteer all those hours, but we needed something permanent and I think that gave us a really good jumping off point,” Teeter said.
GAINING GROUND PROGRESS C15
From C- 11
Once the chamber’s site was launched, those at the Jasper County Airport became interested in the newspaper’s digital design services, and used the newspapers services to design the first website in the airport’s history. “We don’t just offer website design,” Perrotto said. “We also can help clients with search engine optimization.” Search engine opti-
mization or SEO brings more traffic to a customer’s website when local people type in searches pertaining to the business. This makes sure that clients’ websites are showing up on page one of the Google results. “I think, if you’re not on page one of the search results, you’re not going to get found,” Perrotto said.
The Greater Rensselaer Chamber of Commerce website launched in fall 2015.
Family Centered Maternity Care Family Centered Maternity Care
C16 GAINING GROUND PROGRESS
MARCH, 2016
Because many family practice physicians offer obstetric, gynecologic and pediatric care, they can be an excellent choice for mothers-to-be who prefer the continuity and convenience of seeing one doctor for all of their healthcare needs. Because many family practice physicians offer obstetric, gynecologic and pediatric care, they can befamily an excellent for mothers-to-be who prefer the and continuity andcare, Because many practicechoice physicians offer obstetric, gynecologic pediatric they can be an excellent choice fordoctor mothers-to-be the continuity convenience of seeing one for all of who their prefer healthcare needs. and
Family Centered Maternity Care Family Centered Maternity Dr. Clint Kauffman Care
convenience of seeing one doctor for all of their healthcare needs. Because many family practice physicians offer obstetric, gynecologic and pediatric care, Medical Offiwho ce Building the hospital) they can be an excellent choice PMH for mothers-to-be prefer the(Behind continuity and 540doctor Hospital Dr,ofWinamac • 574-946-2194 convenience of seeing one for all their healthcare needs.
Dr. Clint Kauffman Dr. Clint Kauffman Monday: 8am – noon; 1pm – 5pm
PMH Medical Offi ce (Behind PMH Medical Offi1pm ce –Building Building (Behind the the hospital) hospital) Tuesday: 8am – noon; 5pm 540 Hospital Winamac Wednesday: 8am –Dr, noon; 3pm – 7pm• 574-946-2194
Thursday: Closed Monday: 8am – noon; 1pm – 5pm Dr. Clint Kauffman Friday: 8am – noon; 1pm 2:30pm – 4pm Tuesday: – 5pm
Monday: 8am – noon; 1pm – 5pm Tuesday: 8am – noon; 1pm – 5pm Wednesday: 8am – noon; 3pm – 7pm (Behind the hospital) Wednesday: 8am – noon; 3pm – 7pm Thursday: Closed 540 Hospital Winamac • 574-946-2194 Thursday: Closed Friday: 8am –Dr, noon; 2:30pm – 4pm Monday: – 5pm Friday: 8am – noon; 1pm 2:30pm – 4pm Tuesday: 8am – noon; 1pm – 5pm Wednesday: 8am – noon; 3pm – 7pm Thursday: Closed Friday: 8am – noon; 2:30pm – 4pm
PMH Medical Office Building
Dr. Melissa Dawson Dr. Melissa Dawson PMH Medical Office Building (Behind the hospital) PMH Medical Offi ce Building (Behind the hospital) Dr. Melissa 540 Hospital Hospital Dr, Dr, Winamac Winamac •• Dawson 574-946-2194 540 574-946-2194 Monday: 9am noon;the 1pm hospital) 5pm –– noon; 1pm –– 5pm PMH Medical OfficeMonday: Building9am (Behind
Closed Dawson Dr.Tuesday: Melissa 540 Hospital Dr, Winamac • 574-946-2194 Wednesday: 9am – noon Wednesday: 9am – noon the hospital) PMH Medical OfficeMonday: Building9am (Behind –– noon; 1pm -–7pm 5pm Thursday: 11am 2pm; 3pm
Thursday: 9am 11am –– 11am; 3pm - 7pm Friday: 2pm – 4:30pm 540 Hospital Dr, Winamac •2pm; 574-946-2194 Tuesday: Closed Friday:
112
9am – 11am; 2pm – 4:30pm
Wednesday: 9am – noon; noon 1pm – 5pm Monday: Francesville Clinic Tuesday: Closed Thursday: 11am – 2pm; 3pm - 7pm 9am Montgomery Wednesday: St., Francesville • 219-567-2223 Friday: 9am –– noon 11am; 2pm – 4:30pm Thursday: 11am––4pm 2pm; 3pm - 7pm Wednesday: 1pm Friday: 9am – 11am; 2pm – 4:30pm
Francesville Clinic
112 Montgomery St., Francesville • 219-567-2223 Wednesday: 1pm – 4pm Francesville Clinic
When112 you choose a family doctor for yourClinic prenatal care, labor and delivery, you may Francesville Montgomery St.,medicine Francesville • 219-567-2223 also112 choose to have theWednesday: same doctor your children, spouse or other family members. 1pmcare – 4pm Montgomery St., Francesville • for 219-567-2223 When you choose a family medicine doctor yourforprenatal labor and delivery, you and may Our family practice doctors provide1pm pediatric all ages,care, including wellchild checks Wednesday: – 4pm forcare treatment of have mostthe child-related illnesses. theyspouse get toorknow entiremembers. family also choose to same doctor care forAdditionally, your children, otherthefamily When you a family health doctor for your and delivery, you may and choose each member’s history, making them ofincluding thelabor physical, emotional Our family practice doctorsmedicine provide pediatric forprenatal allaware ages,care, wellchild checks When you choose a family medicine doctor forcare your prenatal care, labor and delivery, you and may also have the same care for children, spouse or family social that can affect the health of each family member. also choose choose to toand have the issues same doctor doctor care for your your children, spouse or other other family members. members.
treatment of most child-related illnesses. Additionally, they get to know the entire family Our practice doctors provide pediatric care for all ages, including wellchild checks and Our family family practice doctors provide pediatric care for all ages, including wellchild checks and each member’s health history, making them aware of the physical, emotional and treatment treatment of of most most child-related child-related illnesses. illnesses. Additionally, Additionally, they they get get to to know know the the entire entire family family and social issues that can affect the health of each family member. and each When member’s history, making them aware of the physical, emotional It health Comes To Happy Families, and and social social issues issues that that can can affect affect the the health health of of each each family family member. member.
We Deliver
When It Comes To Happy Families, When It Comes To Happy Families, When It Comes To Happy Families,
We Deliver Deliver We We Deliver
540 Hospital Dr., Winamac • 574-946-2194 • www.pmhnet.com
540 Hospital Dr., Winamac • 574-946-2194 • www.pmhnet.com
540 Hospital Dr., Winamac • 574-946-2194 • www.pmhnet.com 540 Hospital Dr., Winamac • 574-946-2194 • www.pmhnet.com
TECHNOLOGY
MARCH, 2016
GAINING GROUND PROGRESS C17
New technology makes for faster police work By Nick Fiala reporter@rensselaerrepublican.com
New technology is continually changing how quickly law enforcement can get information and use it. Rensselaer’s Police Chief Jeffrey Phillips knows how much this can speed up police work. “Computers move so much faster,” Phillips said. “I can remember when we picked up more advanced models, we were one of the first departments in the state to pick it up. And the speed with which the information would come back to and from our department was incredible.” Despite such benefits which we often take for granted today, there are some challenges that come with using advanced technology for day-to-day police work. “It’s been nice as it’s gotten smaller and faster, but it’s also a challenge for a smaller department when you just don’t have the funding to keep up with that technology,” Phillips said. “Our budgets aren’t made to even purchase that technology to stay up to date with it. We have to look for ways to get grants to apply for those things that will allow us to catch up.” With such limitations on what officers can and can’t upgrade on a regular basis, certain priorities must be established and maintained.
Photo by Nick Fiala
Law enforcement technology, like the kind found in this squad car, is rapidly evolving on a regular basis. “Officer safety takes the number one priority,” Phillips said. “Any technology improvements where we can increase the officer’s safety has to take precedence. But when you
say ‘officer safety’, you could be talking about communication, or something like a less lethal weapon option. For instance, taser equipment came out 10 years or so ago. And it
Strength Reliability Longevity
helped in very difficult situations where you saw a number of bigger departments that didn’t carry the taser have to go to a lethal option. It helped the departments handle things in a safer
manner or bring the situation to a safe ending.” And that help is still needed. On March 14, the Rensselaer Police Department was given permission by the city
council to apply for a grant for more advanced equipment. Jasper County Sheriff Terry Risner, who has held office for See POLICE, Pg. C20
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C18 GAINING GROUND PROGRESS
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C20 GAINING GROUND PROGRESS
TECHNOLOGY
MARCH, 2016
Photos by Nick Fiala
Dispatch desks and computer setups like these are used to guide and transfer information from officers in the field to communicators who supervise events at the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office.
Police
From C- 17
the past six years as part of a career spanning over three decades, also shared his unique perspective on these subjects. “You have to be selective when you’re a small agency, and ask yourself if something is really going to benefit you or benefit the people you serve.” Sheriff Risner said. “I would say right now, with current events, there are two different systems we want to stay up with and try to stay current. One is our mobile data terminals in the squad cars. Officers can gain access to mug shots and information through a secure means. Daily police work has to be done through a mobile data system, because the information they need from them is entered at the state level. The other is the dash cams and body cameras. If you don’t
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A “911 nerve-center” like this is used to keep computer systems and communication functioning at the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office.
have that video feed, it’s almost like nobody believes it happened. And that’s what we’re seeing rapidly occurring in our society. People are used to immediately seeing video feeds. Even though the video doesn’t always tell the full story, since it only captures one angle at a time, it’s become paramount. Many times, it’s a verification of indecent behavior by officers, but it also exonerates the officer as well. It’s a doubleedged sword, but it’s becoming more and more prevalent, even though it’s not totally sweeping the nation just yet. I see that, within the next few years, probably somewhere around 90 percent of agencies are going to be in that venue.” Another area of technological development that officers are very concerned with is the ever-widening
landscape of social media. Sheriff Risner reflected on how the rapid spread of both facts and falsehoods over social media can have a much more serious effect in these politically and socially uncertain times than the average user may assume. “People who can stay anonymous and post all kinds of information on social media don’t always know what they’re talking about,” he said. “But it will inflame some of the masses. And then we’re suffering the consequences for it. They can start a snowball effect that makes you say ‘I don’t know where this is going to end, but it’s probably not going to end well.’ They address things and they don’t know all the facts, and then it takes on a life of its own and becomes problematic, because now we’re having to address issues that
we shouldn’t have to continue to readdress. Ten years ago, that would have never happened, because it wouldn’t have gotten outside of the local news source. I’m not saying all social media is evil, but we see a lot of things that are occurring with that, and that’s one of those technology advancements that I never thought that we would see.” Sheriff Risner’s opinions on these matters come from his underlying philosophy about all the technology that he and his fellow officers use mainly, that it can fail at any time. At any point, common sense must come before technology. “Things built by man can fail and won’t always work,” he said. “You’ve got to be aware that something may not work and may not function.”