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Schools are closed but some still providing meals By Michelle Boswell mboswell@thepaperofmiami.com
Volunteer, Brett Worden, handed out packed lunches at Peru High School. Worden is a teacher for Introduction to Engineering at Peru Junior High School. Photo by Michelle Boswell
March 25, 2020
School may be canceled through May 1 due to COVID-19, but that’s not stopping local schools from providing meals for students. North Miami has meal service pickups on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in front of the middle/high school. Meal sets containing five lunches and five breakfasts will be distributed. Peru Schools are providing meals twice per day, Monday through Friday. The meals are free for school children and adult meals are available for $3. Terry Fuller, Food Service Director for Peru Schools has been kept quite busy despite the empty halls at PHS. “On an average, we give out around 700 meals or so at lunchtime,” said Fuller. Fuller, who has been with Peru Community Schools for 22 years, is very pleased with the staff both inside the food services department and outside. “I have a wonderful staff. They are here every morning ready to work. They are all working hard, pitching in and actually enjoying it,” she said with a smile. Those outside of the kitchen have impressed Fuller as well. “Every time I open my email, I have another teacher or staffer asking how they can help,” she said. Businesses have also come to help feed the local students through PCS. According to Fuller, Sav A Lot has donated about 50 pounds of carrots and celery. Kroger has also helped by donating “a generous amount” of vegetables, Fuller added. Fuller said she has about 13 ladies working in the kitchen and a lot of teachers and staff that have volunteered to help as well. At this time, breakfast is not being offered but according to Fuller, it might happen in the future. “We’ll see how long all this goes on,” Fuller said. Lunch and dinner are presented as a sack lunches and the line forms in front of the PHS for pickup. Meals are served from 11:30 Terry Fuller, PHS Food Service Director. a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Photo by Michelle Boswell and 3:30 p.m. to 4:40 p.m.
Proudly Serving Miami County
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March 25. 2020
Mayor Hewitt keeps city going despite COVID-19
COVID-19 is proving to be quite a challenge for many leaders in Peru. Mayor Miles Hewitt is not an exception. Three months into his first year as Mayor of Peru, Hewitt has his hands full making sure business as usual continues as normal as possible amid the current crisis. “We just had an emergency meeting with the Board of Works and the City Council so we could pay our bills,” said the mayor. The meeting was done via phone with one city council person at city hall. The meeting was recorded for the public to see. “We can’t shut down city government. Every govern-
ment entity is still operating. We are using email, phone and internet to cut down exposure to each other. The city hall lobby is closed but the fire department, police department and street department are all still working,” explained Hewitt. Employees who handle building permits, registrations and licensing are all working from home keeping regular hours. “By them being at home, it cuts down on the risk of them contracting the virus. It’s not only for the safety of our employees but for the safety of the public. We don’t need to spread anymore around. I’d like to see where no one is impacted but that’s a
Mayor Hewitt dream world and not reality,” Hewitt said. Although local restaurants and bars have had to close to the public, utilizing drive-thrus and delivery services, Hewitt said he isn’t getting any backlash from that harsh reality. “People are really cooperating which I really appreciate. We are constantly getting
A shelter was provided by Tom Lennon, Homestead Barns, to help keep volunteers out of the weather while they work at PHS. Photo by Michelle Boswell
Reitzes, Lennon, Madden and Olson help with volunteer shelter By Michelle Boswell mboswell@thepaperofmiami.com Out of necessity, solutions are sometimes born and that’s just what Peru resident, Tom Lennon discovered. Lennon, owner of Homestead Barns of Peru, has provided a 12 x 20 storage shed for Peru High School to use while passing out free lunches and dinners to local students and families. One of the volunteers at PHS, Patricia Reitz, was helping with the lunch crowd and her husband, Hans, happened to drive by. It was windy, rainy and the volunteers were trying to stay dry under a canopy. Once Mrs. Reitz arrived home, Reitz told her, “that’s not
enough.” He asked his next-door neighbor, Randall Madden of Madden Motors if he knew of anyone who could help. Madden called Lennon. “I saw them handing out food on Monday, March 16, out of the back of a vehicle. I was already making arrangements to get a building sent to the site when Randall Madden called me,” said Lennon. Lennon contacted Drew Olson from Olson Paint and Body to see if he could make a sign to hang on the building to let people know about the meals. Olson was happy to help and did it for no charge. “I didn’t do this for attention. I think everybody needs to do their part,” Lennon said.
calls from local organizations in town and they are ramping up help in our community,” he said. He continued by saying, “Peru schools are still giving out meals. It just makes me proud to see all these organizations coming to the aid of the general public. Everybody is pulling together. Not just city hall but everyone. It’s amazing,” the mayor said. As changes come to the city, the mayor said those announcements will be made on social media. Hewitt said he is not a “Facebook type of guy” but said the public can get information on their Facebook page, City of Peru, Indiana – Mayor’s Office. Hewitt said his recep-
tionist is handling all the posts that need to be made for him. Concerning emergency calls that come into dispatch, callers will have more questions to answer so the first responders can be better prepared if COVID-19 comes into play. Questions could include asking if anyone in the home has been to a foreign country recently? Do they have a fever? Is anyone coughing? The caller may be asked to meet the officer outside their home if possible so they can determine if more protection is needed for EMTs or the fire department. The Peru Police Department helps people unlock their cars if needed but that may be limited or
discontinued depending on how the pandemic continues to affect the community. “We will get through this. I want to stress that we are trying to keep this from blowing up like a volcano. By the 14th or 15th day (staying home) we will hopefully reach a plateau. If people don’t adhere to that (social distancing), then it’s going to be a lot longer. Some of these people who are packing up their kids and going to Florida when all the beaches are closed need to have some self-discipline and not be selfish. They need to listen. It’s not a popular decision but it’s for all of us. Not just a few,” Hewitt explained. Hewitt, who
served the city of Peru as a police officer for nearly 39 years has seen a lot in his line of work, but nothing like what is taking place with COVID-19. “I’ve seen different flu epidemics but nothing of this magnitude, but I’m sure we are going to get through it,” he said. Hewitt said he knows some of President Donald Trump and Gov. Eric Holcomb’s decisions have not been popular. He said he knows he may have to make some tough decisions as well but “they have to be made to keep everyone safe,” Hewitt said. “It’s best to plan for the worse and hope for the better,” he said.
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FUNERAL HOMES Family Owned & Operated Since 1945 and Serving All Faiths Funeral Directors - Thomas Leedy | Julie Leedy-Walker Mark Frischman
A Trusted Name in Funeral Service
Listings to keep at your fingertips Information provided by United Way of Miami County Banks and Credit Unions Beacon Credit Union – drive-thru open Mon-Fri - 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Phone number - 800-726-3136 Ext 3. Crossroads Bank – drive-thru open MonFri - 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sat 8 a.m. – Noon. – Phone number - 765327-4064. First Bank of Berne – drive-thru open – Mon-Fri - 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sat - 8 a.m. – Noon– Phone number - 800-589-7848. First Farmers Bank & Trust - S Broadway branch drive-thru open – Mon-Thurs - 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.; Fri - 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. – Sat - 9 a.m. – noon – Phone number - 800-371-3316. First Merchants Bank – drive-thru open Mon-Thurs - 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Fri - 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat - 9 a.m. – Noon – Phone number - 800-205-3464. Flagstar – drivethru open – MonThurs - 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Fri - 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sat - 9 a.m. – Noon – Phone number - 765-473-6661. Hometown Federal Credit Union – drivethru open - Mon, Tues, Thurs - 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Wed 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Fri 8:30 a.m., - 6 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. – Noon – Phone number - 765-472-7600. PNC – drive-thru open Mon-Fri - 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sat - 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. 888-762-2265. Entertainment Hotspot – free https://t.co/KTVifXpQZY Internet – free - Call 844-488-8398 (free service during school
shutdown from Spectrum) Comcast is offering ‘Internet Essentials’ package free for low income customers for 60 days. Must apply before 4/30/2020. https://www.internetessentials.com/co vid19… Curriculum ages 09 https://ready4k.parentpowered.com/covi d.html Disney coloring pages: https://thefarmgirlgabs.com/1000free-disney-coloring-p age…/ Musicals free https://www.insider.com/streambroadway-musicals-pl ays-for-… Netflix free www.netflix.com Virtual Fieldtrips https://fre edomhomeschooling.com/virtual-fieldtrips/ YMCA - building open only to ages 16 and older with limited activities YMCA - virtual exercise class www.YMCA360. org Baby food Baby formula - call the phone number on the back of canister, companies are working with parents. Food Pantries Helping Hands - 176 N. Broadway, Peru – Phone number - 765472-1875 Mon, Wed, Fri – 9 a.m. to Noon. The Salvation Army - 1785 S. St. Rd. 19, Peru – Phone number - 765-473-5498 MonThurs - 8:30 - 11:30 a.m., appt only. Macy - 190 N Columbia St., Macy – Phone number - 574-930-0448 - Second and fourth Thurs. each month 10 a.m.-Noon and 5 - 7 p.m. Miami Nation of Indians - 65 W Seventh St., Peru 765-473-9631 first Sat each month, 2 - 4 p.m. Mobile Drives drive-up service - stay
in your vehicle - Wed., March 25, Parkview Church open at 11 a.m. 1785 S St Rd 19, Peru. Wed., April 29 - Mexico Baptist Church 4088 N. Carol St., Mexico
By Debi Wallick
11:30 a.m. - Arrowhead 11:45 a.m. - Jean Apartments 11:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. - Eagles Pointe 4 p.m. - Hilltop Apartments They will drop off to seniors. Restaurants 31 Marathon at 218 (carry out only) – Phone number - 765689-8326 The following are all are open for takeout, drive-thru or delivery only Afterburners Bar & Grill - 765-689-0902 Arby’s - 765-475-0765
Burger King - 765472-4100 Club 14 Bar & Grill 765-473-3010 Dairy Queen - 765472-3044 Dillinger’s - 765-4605398 Dominos - 765-4736603
East End Double Dip - 765-472-3436 Gabriel’s Pancake House - 765-470-3212 Garden Gate Café 765-327-2355 Hardee’s - 765-4733269 Harvey Hinklemeyers - 765-472-4341
Bunker Hill United Methodist Church pick-up site Monday Friday Noon - 12:30 p.m. YMCA transit Monday – Friday - pick up
136 S. Elm St. Bunker Hill 765.689.9411 Fax 765.473.5996
info@flowersleedyallen.com
Local executive director burning midnight oil
a food relief drive through April 30, 2020. Please check the United Way website for a list of pantries, their addresses and hours. Actual food donations can be dropped off by calling the pantries. Donations can be mailed to United Way or placed online at United Way’s website. Donations will be deposited into our emergency food relief effort fund where 100% off your gift will go toward the food relief effort to support Miami County individuals and families left vulnerable by the pandemic. Thank you in advance for your thoughtful contribution! Together we are People Helping People Funding Solutions! You can contact United Way of Miami County at www.uwmiamip.org. Although the office is closed to the public at this time, you can reach Debi Wallick by phone at 765-473-4250 or 765-469-9898. Debi Wallick is theExecutive Director of United Way of Miami County.
North Miami School Corp. - offered to NM students only Tues. & Thurs. in front of High/Middle School * 5 breakfasts and lunches for each student within that home 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
105 W.Third St. Peru 765.473.6674
United Way of Miami County keeping community informed Thank you to everyone who has reached out to United Way. We’re actively working with our community partners to publicize all current COVID-19 updates to our citizens in Miami County. We are collaborating with our schools, local food pantries, and food banks to supply much-needed meals for individuals and families during this time. We are also networking with the Chamber of Commerce, local and state health departments, utility municipalities, and government entities to help implement community decisions made locally to benefit everyone. Being hungry is real. The statistics are alarming, and the results can affect everyone. Now that many incomes are decreasing and schools have closed, families are faced with making difficult choices. Families and children will need food and essential assistance. Therefore, the need for food at local pantries is even greater during this shut down. Miami County Community Foundation is donating $5,000 to help kick off a food relief effort sponsored in partnership with United Way of Miami County. You can help. United Way of Miami County is helping fund Miami County pantries with
Pick-up Meals Peru Community School Corp - pick-up sack lunch & dinner Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m. and 3:304:30 p.m. - front drive at PHS, 401 N Broadway - open to all Miami County students – free. Adult meals are $3.00 Monday - Friday deliveries - 11:15 Peru Apartments 11:30 Franklin & Wabash 11:50 Elmwood School 12:10 Wabash Flats Look for the big yellow bus.
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By Michelle Boswell mboswell@thepaperofmiami.com
Debi Wallick
Debi Wallick, Executive Director of United Way of Miami County has had a lot going on this week. While some see a decrease in workloads, Wallick has put in over 60 hours coordinating information and efforts to help others in Miami County. COVID-19 has put a strain on local resources because of social distancing but the needs of the community haven’t lessened. In fact, because citizens are being encouraged to keep their distance from others, many have been laid off from their jobs which puts a strain on the ability to pay bills and put food on the table. But like Wallick, people are stepping up to help others during this crisis and according to her, that’s what makes this community strong. “We’ve had a lot of positive feedback from the public. They want to know where they can volunteer. What is the highest need in the community? People are really coming together,” she said. Wallick has been busy making calls and mapping out what services are available whether it’s restaurants, banks, food pantries or anything else she can think of that people might want to meet their needs. Although social distancing is being encouraged and in many cases like schools and churches, enforced, Wallick knows there are people out there who want to help. “We can’t have more than 10 people at a time together, but if people are interested in helping, I can put them on a list. That way if something comes up, I know I’ll have people I can call to help,” she explained. Wallick also said people who can help monetarily can do so by donating online or send checks to 13 E Main St., Peru, IN, 46970. Despite the long hours Wallick has put in lately concerning COVID-19, she said she is happy to be in this community. “I feel privileged and happy to live in this community where people want to help one another. And if they need assistance, all they have to do is call and ask for help,” Wallick said.
Hoosier Hotspot in Denver - 765-985-3000 Jack’s Eat & Brew 765-460-5487 Jefferson St. BBQ in Converse - 765-3955117 Los Tres Caminos (N Broadway) - 765472-7005
Los Tres Caminos (W Main St.) - 765-4723711 McDonald’s (W Main St.) - 765-4723540 My Pizza My Way 765-473-3142 continued on page 4
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Listings Papa Johns - 765-3272362 Peru Family Restaurant - 765-3272544 Pizza Hut - 765-4735200 Pizza King - 765473-4431 Pizza Quik - 765473-7770 Red Rocket Bar & Grill - 765-689-0763 Smitty McMusselman’s Pub & Grub 765-460-5419 Subway (No Broadway) - 765-473-4700 Tracks End Restaurant - 765-4724187 Wendy’s - 765-4722784 Wings Etc. - 765587-3356 Medication CVS drive-thru open, limited pharmacy delivery available 765-472-4367 Kroger drive-thru free, no pharmacy delivery 765-413-2076 Walgreens drivethru free, pharmacy delivery available 765-473-5542 Township Trustees Peru Township 765-473-5835 Jackson Township - 765-395-7191 Allen Township 574-382-2217 Jefferson Township - 765-985-3500 Butler Township 765-473-6702 Pipe Creek Township - 765-469-1113 Clay Township 765-689-7277 Richland Township - 765-985-2074 Deer Creek Township - 765-398-5091 Union Township 765-472-3901 for the
March 25. 2020
Continued from page 3 courthouse Erie Township 765-469-1722 Washington Township - 765-470-2897 Harrison Township - 765-472-3901 Number at the courthouse Transportation YMCA Transit will continue for critical care, employment, health-related appts., and essential grocery/food-related program – Call 765472-1979 Unemployment Job Seeker’s payments - www.mywelfare.ie Small Business - https://isbdc.org/i ndianacovid19smallbusiness/ https://www.dol.gov /agencies/whd/flsa/ pandemic https://w ww.sba.gov/…/coronavirus-covid-19small-business-g… Unemployment insurance - www.unemployment.in.gov Work One – Northwest, IN - 800-8916499 Utilities Duke Energy suspending disconnections for non-payments - 866236-3749 Miami Cass REMC suspending disconnections for nonpayments 765-473-6668 NIPSCO suspending disconnections for non-payments 800-464-7726 Peru Utilities suspending disconnections for non-payments 765473-6681
Youth Institute - IYI Webinars for professional development: - March 18, noon - 1 p.m More Than Their Scores – Tackling Test Anxiety With Our Youth - March 25, Noon - 1 p.m. Conditions for Learning: Preventing Responding to Stress Levels of Students - April 15, noon - 1 p.m. Empathy: Why It Matters and How to Grow It - April 22, noon - 1 p.m. Keeping Up with Graduation Pathways: Questions Answered and Emerging Promising Practices - April 29, Noon - 1 p.m. The Tiers of Social Emotional Learning to Mental Wellness Supports Data Resources: Kids Count 2020 data book: https://www.i yi.org/indiana-kidscount-data-book/ 2020 County Snapshots: https://www.i yi.org/county-snapshots/ Custom Data Requests: https://www .iyi.org/customdata-requests/ Knowledge Center: https://ww w.iyi.org/knowledge-center/ Professor Development Grants https://www.iyi.org /professional-education-grants/ Newsletter: https:// www.iyi.org/newsle tters/
Miami County Recycling District to close due to COVID-19 By Samantha St. John For the safety of the citizens and employees amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the Miami County Recycling District Board of Directors have created the following policy: Friday, March 20, 2020, the Miami County Recycling District board of directors approved that the Miami County Recycling District building will be closed to the public until April 20. All Miami County Recycling District employees will be reporting to work at the Miami County Recycling District building, given they are in good health. Officials are taking steps to continue business for our citizens as best we can. You can conduct business via phone, by mail or email. For the benefit of the citizens, the facility will
Samantha St. John not take in person payments until further notice. Payments can be made by mail, online or by phone. Citizens can contact the District at 765-472-7224 to
discuss payment options. Traditional (paper, plastic containers, cardboard, food grade glass and metal cans) recycling sites will be open. These actions may seem extreme or disruptive to your daily life, but if we take steps now, and make decisions that are preventive, officials will protect the most vulnerable among the county, while still providing essential services to the community in the long run. All meetings are hereby postponed until further notice. The country is in unprecedented times and ask that everyone be flexible, understanding, patient and cautious. This situation is constantly changing, and officials will keep the public informed as they learn new information. Samantha St. John is the Director of Miami CountyRecycling District.
Lincoln Brooks, 6, recently spent some time at Maconaquah Park. Photo by Michelle Boswell
For daily updates on local news, visit our Facebook page, The Paper of Miami County. Send your local community information, schedules or activities to mboswell @thepaperof miami.com.
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Police Reports Peru Police Department March 16 A report of trespassing was made at 951 W Main St,, McDonalds. The subject asked if the officer could request the vehicle leave the parking lot so the business could be closed. The vehicle was unoccupied, and employee advised the vehicle could remain there overnight. A call from 1149 Rosewood Drive was made concerning a boyfriend who was being disorderly. The complainant wished for the boyfriend to leave the house. The boyfriend eventually left on his own accord. A report of a vehicle blocking an alley was made at 464 E Third St. The vehicle was gone before the police arrived. A complainant went to the PPD to report an ex-boyfriend harassing her. A citizen was assisted with a disabled vehicle. The officer stayed with the subject with emergency lights flashing near N 150 W and W U.S. 24, Peru, until a tow truck arrived. A caller from 412 N Broadway said several young juveniles keep calling her phone, harassing her. An accident with property damage was reported at 181 W Main St. A runaway juvenile was reported from 183 W Seventh St. The father wanted to make a report regarding his 16-year old son running away from home. Suspicious people were reported at 20 Washington Ave., Dollar General. The officer located two of the three people reported. The employees advised the subjects had been inside for nearly two hours. After further investigation, it was discovered that one subject, Alana Farrell, still had an active no trespass warning. Employees just wanted her to leave. The issue was addressed. A female at 219 W Third St, reported her medication was missing from her home.
March 18 A call came in from 35 George St concerning an unconscious person. The department assisted Dukes Memorial Hospital Emergency Medical Staff. A suspicious person was reported near 320 E Fifth St, in the alleyway. The area was checked and was secure. A voicemail was left with complainant regarding the issue. A traffic stop was made near N Fremont and W Main Streets. The stop resulted in an arrest for operating while intoxicated. A citizen needed assistance with drug paraphernalia that was located near N Broadway and Daniel Streets. The item was placed in evidence for destruction. A call made from 505 Jackson Avenue concerning custody of children. A welfare check was requested at 951 W Main St, McDonalds. The report was about unrestrained children in a vehicle. The vehicle was located, and an officer spoke to the female driver. Everything checked out fine. A dispute between a tenant and landlord was called in from 32 Jean Avenue, Apartment C. Both agreed to stay away from each other. Central dispatch advised an officer to contact a female about a male mistreating a cat at 271 Franklin Court. A parking problem was reported at 64 South Lafayette Street. A vehicle was parked in the tree lawn. The person responsible for the vehicle was located and she moved the vehicle. An unwanted guest was reported at 521 Longview Drive. The call was regarding residency. A call was made from 17 Jean Ave. about an unwanted person. The complainant stated a male had made threats and left on foot once he knew police were called. Complainant wished a no trespass issued if located.
Units checked the area but were unable to locate the male. A subject called with questions about child custody. Subject was concerned about children going with mother in another city due to current sickness going around. The subject was advised to obtain further information at the courts about this civil matter. A report of a possibly impaired male walking in the roadway near Abraham Lane and Bobtail Pike. The male was found to be intoxicated and given a courtesy ride to a nearby gas station. Male was given free food to help him sober up. Police were called shortly there after due to the male having stolen items and causing a disturbance. The male was arrested for public intoxication disorderly conduct, and intimidation. Following medical clearance, the male was transported to the Miami County Jail. Theft was reported at 272 S Broadway. The subject was arrested for intoxication, disorderly conduct and intimidation. An accident with property damage was reported at East Main and South East streets. The vehicle collided with a tree. Criminal mischief was reported at 494 E Third St. A record was made of damage to property. An animal problem was reported near 162 N Fremont St. A dog was let into the dog pound. A possible burglary was reported at 652 Monroe Ave., but everything checked out fine. A citizen at 355 Harrison Ave. had questions about an eviction. Subject was advised to go through the courts. A caller from 486 Madison Ave. reported an intoxicated brother at his residence. The brother agreed to calm down for the evening. A report of a wrong-way driver was made for the area of
N 150 W and W U.S. Route 24, Peru. The driver was located. A suspicious male was reported at 10 Adams Ave. The officer was unable to locate the male. A traffic hazard was reported at 990 W Main St, First Merchants Bank. A subject drove into the ditch. The vehicle was removed. March 19 A road-rage incident was reported near 186 W Second St. A welfare check was requested at 505 Jackson Ave. A complaint of a violation of child custody. The matter was somewhat resolved at that time; however, the complainant may call back with further information. Assistance was given for a call from 75 N Wabash St, for a possible death of a female. A parking problem was reported near 123 W Fifth St. The owner of the vehicle was called to move it. A complainant at 44 Logan St, wanted someone from the police department to call her about someone threatening her daughter. The department tried on three separate occasions to contact the other but did not get an answer. A male at 612 W Harrison wanted someone to contact him in reference to a civil issue of entering a property. The issue was addressed Criminal mischief was reported 397 Hoover Ave. Vandalism to a vehicle was the incident and a report was taken. A report of threats being made at 69 ½ N Huntington was called into the station. An officer spoke to the homeowner and she advised everything was fine. A report of theft at 685 Woodburn Green Drive. The issue was addressed. A civil issue over property was reported from 353 Harrison Ave. Disorderly conduct was reported from 930 W Main St, Kroger. A male subject was causing a disturbance by coughing and say-
ing he had the coronavirus. The male was also begging for money and becoming belligerent with store staff members. The male and his mother were asked to leave the premises for the reminder of the day. They left upon request of the store staff. A traffic hazard was reported at 661 E Main St. A vehicle at 119 W Fifth St. was tagged with a seven-day warning. After seven days, the vehicle was given a citation for seven-day parking and then towed by All American. An alarm was sounded at 903 W Main St. The police department contacted an employee who said everything was fine. Possible drug activity was reported at 70 E Washington Ave. Officer was unable to locate any activity. Miami County Sheriff ’s Department March 16 A traffic stop was made at E St Rd 18 and S St Road 19, Converse, for a traffic offense. The department assisted Indiana State Police at 1478 W and 500 S, Peru, for mental cases. A lockout was reported at 35036 Altus Court, Peru. A traffic stop was made at E 1200 S and S State Road 19, Converse, for a traffic offense. A traffic stop was made at E Mill and S Main streets, Amboy, for a traffic offense. A traffic stop was made at W 400 S and S 200 W, Peru, for a traffic offense. An address verification for an offender was made at 10832 S and 550 E, Amboy. A single vehicle crash with property damage with no injuries was reported at Lovers Lane and Meridian Road. A traffic stop was made at near Logansport Road and U.S. Routh 31, Peru, for a traffic offense. A traffic stop was made at 1782 W Logansport Road, Peru, for a traffic offense. A vehicle identifi-
cation number request was made at 2248 S Strawtown Pike, Peru. A traffic stop was made at E State Road 18 and S Maple Street, Converse, for a traffic offense. A warning for a speeding violation was given near W 450 N and N Mexico Road, Peru. Criminal mischief was reported at 41023 Gunter Court, Peru. A suspicious person or vehicle was reported at 632 E and 900 N, Denver. A welfare check was made at 1729 N Foreman Drive, Village Pantry, Grissom Air Reserve Base, for a 911 hang-up. A suspicious item or package was reported at 150 E Main St, Bunker Hill. Everything checked out fine. An unwanted guest was reported at 2934 S and 300 W, Woodland Hills Mobile Home Park, lot 133, Peru. A domestic disturbance was reported at 2934 S and 300 W, Woodland Hills Mobile Home Park. Lot 148, Peru. Disorderly conduct was reported at 408 N Jefferson Street, Converse. A structure fire was reported at 2096 S and 625 E, Peru. Gentry Gittings, 41, Kokomo, was arrested for violation of probation. March 17 A suspicious person or vehicle was reported at 10001 S U.S. Route 31, RV Dynasty, Bunker Hill. Everything checked out fine. Criminal mischief was reported at 40021 Fairchild Court, Peru. Child abuse and/or neglect was called in to the sheriff ’s department. An unwanted guest was reported at 2934 S 300 W, Woodland Hills Mobile Home Park, lot 33, Peru. A traffic accident with damage was reported at W 1050 N and N U.S. Route 31, southbound. A juvenile problem was reported at 3311 N Lincoln St, Peru. It was a neighbor dispute about property
lines and animals. Possible theft was reported at 2642 S Business 31, Best Western Circus City Inn, Peru. A male called in saying he had lost his wallet. A caller from 233 South Lincoln St., Bunker Hill, had questions regarding a civil matter over a vehicle. A citizen at 6163 E and 400 N, Peru, had questions about suspicious items she had located near her home. An unwanted guest was reported at 2934 S and 300 W, Woodland Hills Mobile Home Park, lot 148, Peru. Units responded and parties agreed to separate for the night. Cody Long, 23, Greentown, was arrested for violation of probation. Teresa Long, 49, 2934 S and 300 W, Lot A, Peru, was arrested for failure to appear. John Miller, Jr., 51, 17 E Jefferson Ave., Peru, was taken into custody. Stephanie Phillips, 56, South Bend, was arrested for driving while suspended. Michael Grey, 47, 416 E Third St, Peru, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine. March 18 Disorderly conduct was reported at 382 S Center St, Bunker Hill. A citizen needed assistance with unlocking a vehicle at 2273 W Logansport Rd, Peru. A toddler was locked inside. Assistance was given and baby was safe. A caller from 2047 E and 550 N, Peru, had questions regarding an abandoned vehicle on his property. A female at 2934 S and 300 W, Woodland Hills Mobile Home Park, lot 236, Peru, called about an unruly juvenile. The female advised she has been in contact with probation and will attempt to get back in touch with them later. Transport was needed from 1000 N Broadway, Four County Counseling, Peru, to Four County in Logansport.
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THE PAPER March 25. 2020
www.thepaperofmiami.com
Police A caller from 2595 S Maconaquah Drive, Peru, wanted to speak to someone about questions regarding his neighbor shooting a firearm. A caller from 2304 Randolph St, Peru, wanted to speak to someone in reference to possible fraud. The female advised she had released credit card information to an unknown caller. She is unclear if she has lost any money. The female stated she would call back if she needed anything further. Cameo Espinoza, 24, Indianapolis, was arrested for operating with intoxicated and endangering. March 19 Criminal mischief of an unknown nature was reported at 38046 Dow Court, Peru. A welfare check was requested on North Lincoln Street, Peru. Complainant said she could not get ahold of her mother and was concerned for her well-being. The officer located the female at her home. She had been asleep, and everything checked out fine. Criminal mischief was reported at 1287 W 300 S, Peru, for damage to a mailbox. A disabled vehicle was reported at West Hoosier Boulevard and South U.S. Route 31, southbound, Peru. Assistance was needed at 2894 S and 50 W, Peru for an unconscious person. A call was made to the sheriff ’s department for a possible intoxicated person near S U.S. Route 31 and W 1150 S, Bunker Hill. Officer was unable to locate person. A welfare check was requested for 2210 Patrick Street, Peru. Officer was unable to locate individual or their vehicle. An accident with damage was reported near N Old Route 31 and W 800 N, Denver. James Moore, Kansas, was westbound on CR 800 N, approaching Old Route 31, in a black 2013 Ford. Moore stated he disregarded the stop sign and continued into the inter-
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Continued from page 6 section. Moore struck the driver side of a black 2017 Ford driven by Guido Tims of Macy. Both vehicles sustained damage and Tims was transported to Woodlawn Hospital for a complaint of pain. A person called into the sheriff ’s Department about harassment. A caller from 2934 S 300 W, Woodland Hills Mobile Home Park, lot 148, called to speak to someone about a civil issue. A traffic accident with property damage was reported near E State Rd 18 and S 300 E, Kokomo. There were no disabled vehicles in the area. Suspicion of a prowler was called in from 2248 W and 1050 S, Bunker Hill. Indiana State Police advised all other units could disregard the call. Lijah Graham, 42, Chicago, was arrested for public intoxication, disorderly conduct and intimidation. Braeden Lucas, 24, Wabash, was arrested for disorderly conduct and criminal mischief. Bradley Conner, 26, 2934 S and 300 W, lot 179, Peru, was taken into custody. March 20 A traffic stop was made at N 600 E and E 400 N, Peru, for a traffic offense. A citizen needed assistance at 1145 N Paw Paw Pike. A traffic stop was made at N 700 E and E U.S. Route 24, Richvalley Road north of U.S. 24, Wabash, for a traffic offense. Criminal mischief was reported at 136 S W St, Bunker Hill, due to a garage being spray painted. This is an ongoing investigation. A welfare check was requested at 1834 Norton Ave., Peru. Everything checked out fine. Gun shots were reported near 3538 W Clover Lane, west of
woods. No one was located and no gun shots were heard by officer. A call was made that individuals were trespassing near the area of 1810 E St Rd 124 and 200 E, Peru. Issued no trespasses to individuals. A traffic stop was made for speeding near W Lovers Lane Rd and N Mexico Road. A verbal warning was issued.
Units responded to a domestic disturbance at 586 W Egypt Hill Drive, Peru. Both parties agreed to stay separated for the night. A traffic stop was made at West U.S. Route 24 and North U.S. Route 31, Peru for a traffic offense. A suspicious vehicle was reported at the Nickel Plate Trail. Everything checked out fine.
March 21 A caller from 3201 Schilling St reported receiving a “follow” request on Instagram. The notification stated the request was from a man she has a protective order against. Caller said she was out of state when the notification was received and believes the request was made from an address in Tippecanoe County. The caller
was informed a record would be made at the Sheriff ’s Department and to contact authorities in the state she received the notification in as well as Tippecanoe County. A missing person was reported from East Third Street, Peru but the juvenile was located before the arrival of the officer at the address. A phone call was re-
ceived from a citizen at 3004 March St, Peru, in reference to a civil issue. A panic alarm was received from 171 E Third St, Walnut Hill Mobile Home Park, lot 26, Bunker Hill. Everything checked out fine. An accident with injuries was reported at West Hoosier Boulevard and South U.S. Route 31, Peru.
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THE PAPER
www.thepaperofmiami.com
March 25. 2020
Governor issues stay-at-home order By Mandy Underwood munderwood@thepaperofwabash.com
Gov. Eric J. Holcomb delivered a statewide address today to order that Hoosiers remain in their homes except when they are at work or for permitted activities, such as taking care of others, obtaining necessary supplies, and for health and safety. The order is in effect from March 25 to April 7. “The next two weeks are critical if we are to slow the spread of COVID-19, and we must slow the spread. You must be part of the solution, not the problem,” Gov. Holcomb said. The first positive case of COVID-19 in Indiana was reported on March 6. Since then the number of positive cases has increased on a near daily basis, escalating as the capacity to test has grown. As of this morning, the number of tests completed in Indiana is 1,960, the number of positive cases is 259 and 7 deaths have been reported. “I’m setting the example by sending state government personnel home to work to the maximum extent possible and closing our facilities to public interaction beginning Tuesday, for at least the next two weeks,” said Gov. Holcomb. Beginning Tuesday, all state government offices will be closed to in-person public activity
until at least April 7. This includes the Government Center complex in Indianapolis and other offices throughout the state, including Bureau of Motor Vehicle branches. State employees will work remotely whenever possible and continue to provide core functions online and by phone. All public safety functions will continue. In conjunction with the closures, Gov. Holcomb ordered an automatic extension of all state-issued licenses and will advise law enforcement to refrain from issuing citations for a driver’s license or registration that expires during this emergency. The state, in conjunction with the city and all hospital systems in Marion County, has activated a comprehensive emergency operations center to maximize hospital capacity and provide joint coordination. The center is charged with tracking the inventory of all hospital beds, supplies and personnel as the number of COVID-19 patients grows. “I am proud of our hospital systems that are participating in the initial phase of this process, Eskenazi Health, IU Health, Franciscan Health, Community Health Network, and Ascension,” said Gov. Holcomb. “Marion County is where we’ve seen the most community spread to date, but we will expand this model to other parts of the state.”
Manning advises to stay safe, support your neighbors By Ethan Manning
Friends and neighbors, you don’t need me to tell you, but these are challenging times. We recently finished the 2020 legislative session, but that feels small now compared to the extreme public health and economic challenges we are facing due to the coronavirus pandemic. I know we are all experiencing some level of hardship due to the difficult, but necessary, steps taken in the past week that may continue for days or months ahead as we fight the spread of the illness. I would encourage you to follow the advice of public health officials. Work from home if you can, do not gather in large groups and practice social distancing if you must meet in a small group together. Make sure you wash your hands and sanitize surfaces. In addition, remember to help your neighbors, especially those who are elderly or most at risk, and support our local businesses. Many have rightfully suggested ordering carry out or delivery
can help our local restaurants and purchasing gift cards can support other small businesses during this challenging time. The following weeks and months will not be easy, but Hoosiers and our community are resilient, and we will get through this together. Several resources are available to help you navigate through this unprecedented public health crisis. You can stay up to date about the coronavirus by visiting in.gov/coronavirus. If you find yourself out of work during this time, please visit unemployment.in.gov. Expanded unemployment benefits are available to help you bridge the gap in your budget. If you own or work for a small business that is impacted, visit sba.gov/coronavirus to find resources that may help , including information on the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program that businesses in Indiana now qualify for. Small busi nesses are an economic driver of our local communities, and we must do everything we can to support them in their time of
need. As this pandemic is causing schools to close, many parents are left looking for child care. Chilcarefinder.in.gov is a resource family can use to find child care services in their area. Please know that I am here to help. Since most public events have been canceled, I may not have an opportunity to see many of you for some time, so I would welcome your calls or emails to discuss the recently concluded legislative session, the coronavirus pandemic and response, or any other input you have to offer. Now is a great time for us to talk and catch up. You can reach me at 317-232-9620 or send me an email at H23@iga.in.gov. Remember, it’s your state government, so participate in it! And, given the current situation, let’s especially remember to support our neighbors during this ongoing crisis. Help someone if you can. State Rep. Ethan Manning (RDenver) represents House District 23, which includes portions of Cass, Fulton and Miami counties.
All-Conference team announced By Eric Christiansen The Three Rivers Conference announced its Boys Basketball All-Conference team for the 2019-20 season. Miami County had five players on the first-team and three players named Honorable Mention. Peru led the county with three first-team selection in senior Daunte Majors, junior Trey Curtis and sophomore Matt Ross. Kade Townsend, a junior, was named to the Honorable Mention team. Maconaquah senior Sam Bourne was named to the first-team and sophomore Hayden Maiben was named Honorable Mention. North Miami senior Triston Working made the first-team
while junior Darian Hanley was named Honorable Mention. TRC All-Conference First-Team Maconaquah: Sam Bourne (12) Manchester: Weston Hamby (11) North Miami: Triston Working (12) Northfield: Clayton Tomlinson (11) Peru: Trey Curtis (11), Daunte Majors (12), Matt Ross (10) Rochester: Grant McCarter (11), Quin Stasiak (11) Southwood: Carson Rich (11) Tippecanoe Valley: Tanner Trippiedi (12) Wabash: Trenton Daughtry
(12), Elijah Vander Velden (12), Dereck Vogel (12) Whitko: Brett Sickafoose (11) Honorable Mention Maconaquah: Hayden Maiben (10) Manchester: Max Carter (12) North Miami: Darian Hanley (11) Northfield: Alex Haupert (11) Peru: Kade Townsend (11) Rochester: Kyle Townsend (11) Southwood: Connor Rich (11) Tippecanoe Valley: Paul Leasure (9) Wabash: Jasper Walter (11)
Beth Enyart, Peru, recentlly took her dog, Milachi, for a walk along the River Walkway in Peru. Photo by Michelle Boswell