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Circus City’s parade, downtown festival still a go By Michelle Boswell mboswell@thepaperofmiami.com
The circus show will not go on this year, but the Circus City Festival board of directors have made the decision to move forward with the downtown festival and circus parade. CCFI is entering its 62nd season and even though there will be no shows in the circus arena, the board felt there were parts of the festival that could still take place. COVID-19 restrictions were a major part of the decision to cancel the show. Because the performers work in such close contact with each other, there was no way to do the type of routines that are used in a circus performance. Because the performers work so closely together, the closest category in Indiana Governor Holcomb’s plan of ‘Back on Track Indiana’ puts the Peru Circus in the “gyms and fitness” category. According to Governor Holcomb’s plan, gyms and fitness, (during stage three which runs from May 24th until June 13th), still have social dis-
tancing requirements. According to the plan, this category must use the following guidelines to be open: Screen employees daily; must wear face coverings; class sizes or equipment must be spaced to accommodate social distancing; equipment must be cleaned after each use and class size must be limited. That means no touching and keeping six feet apart. Each time a child would use a piece of equipment, it would have to be sanitized. Imagine the enormity of cleaning each trapeze, web, silk, mat, juggling clubs, and more for nearly 200 children every single time an item is used. Acts that require couples to work together, hand to hand, could not practice because of the social distancing requirement. The same would be true for flying trapeze, high wire, side-by-side. And then there are the trainers who
need to spot the children while attempting new tricks. There is no way a trainer can be six feet away and catch someone who falls. The safety and well-being of the performers is the number one concern for the trainers. The next phase of Gov. Holcomb’s Back on Track Indiana Plan, stage four, has the exact same restrictions for gyms and fitness. That phase is from June 14 through July 3. The shows were set for July 10-18. It was decided there was no way to practice according to the governor’s orders and still maintain safety for the performers and trainers. This would not give the performers enough practice time on equipment and with each other without compromising the safety of the performers. With those facts weighing in the balance, the show was
See Governor Holcomb’s ‘Back on Track Indiana’ Plan -Page 5
(See CCFI, page 2)
Downtown Peru 2019 - Photo by Michelle Boswell
May 27, 2020
Proudly Serving Miami County
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CCFI
continuted from page 1 canceled. Even though the show was canceled, that is just one-third of what Circus City Festival puts together each July. It was time to decide whether to go ahead with the rest of the festival or not. By the time stage five of Gov. Holcomb’s plan comes along, which is July 4 and beyond, festivals are allowed. According to board members, the parade may look a bit different than what folks are used to viewing. Ordinarily the budget allows for the purchase of animals to appear in the parade. Mainly horse teams to pull circus wagons through the parade route. But because there will be no income due to the cancellation of the shows, organizers feel the parade, if it will still be allowed to happen according to Governor Holcomb’s orders, needs to be done with little spending. Horse teams are not cheap nor are other animals such as elephants that are often seen at the end of the parade. Parade goers are more likely to see trucks and tractors pulling wagons through the streets this year. The circus’ goal is to do what they can to save as much money as possible while trying to maintain the heritage of Peru/Miami County. The downtown festivities are also a go at this point and time. If the governor changes the staging dates for opening the state that could affect the possibility of having the festivities. Applications are
Parade goers are more likely to see trucks and tractors pulling wagons through the streets this year. The circus’ goal is to do what they can to save as much money as possible while trying to maintain the heritage of Peru/Miami County.
A graceful spanish web performer with the Peru Amateur Circus displayed a routine during a roadshow held at Paul Richard GM Center in 2019. The Peru Circus plans to have road show performances in the coming months despite the show being cancelled for the festival. Photo by Michelle Boswell
Miami Correctional Facility Warden receives leader award
Miami Correctional Facility (MCF) Warden Bill Hyatte, awarded the Extraordinary Leader Award by Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC) Commissioner Rob Carter. Warden Hyatte was recognized for his ability to motivate others to go beyond what is expected of them. He demonstrates great confidence making de-
cisions, which comes from over 30 years of experience in the IDOC. He began his career as a correctional officer working his way through the ranks up to Warden at MCF. His path to Warden has garnered him great respect from the staff, he knows where you came from, because he has been there. He is approachable and
has a true open-door policy fostering great lines of communication for all staff. His knowledge has been invaluable to the operations at MCF. The efficient and safe operations of the facility are a direct result of his leadership. A leader sets an example for everyone to follow and Warden Hyatte lives that example every day.
Warden Bill Hyatte commented, “I’m very humbled by this recognition and I thank Commissioner Carter. I want everyone to know I’m only as good as the team of people that walk beside me. This award reflects the outstanding teamwork at MCF, I want to say thank you to my team; they made this possible. One Team One Goal.”
Keep safe. Keep well. Keep reading The Paper of Miami County!
still coming in for food vendors and the carnival owner has given a thumbs-up to continue with the rides. The circus also has some road shows planned down the road that will help bring in some income for the organization. Time will tell how all of this plays out but for now, CCFI is still working diligently to give Miami County an opportunity for family fun and the continuation of circus tradition.
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105 W.Third St. | Peru 765.473.6674
FUNERAL HOMES Family Owned & Operated Since 1945 and Serving All Faiths Family Funeral Directors - Thomas Leedy | Julie Leedy-Walker | Mark Frischman
A Trusted Trusted Name in Funeral Funeral Service Service
Obituaries Ruthanne Abbott, 67 Ruthanne Abbott, 67, of Peru, went to her heavenly home Thursday, May 21, 2020, at 8:40 p.m. Ruthanne was born in Peru Aug. 13, 1952, to Harold and Wilma (Mickey) Hilgeman. She graduated from North Miami High School and was employed by a few factories before going and working as a seamstress for Blondie and Dagwood in Peru. Later, Ruthanne became the owner/operator of her business, Beautiful Creation by Abbott. She volunteered for the Circus City Festival for many seasons behind the scenes, braiding hair and applying makeup to both performers and kiddie clowns. In 1973, Ruthanne married Dennis W. Abbott, and together, they had three children: Angela Abbott (Jeremiah), James Abbott (best friend An-
drew Cornett), and Tim Abbott and wife Chelsea, all of Peru. Ruthanne was blessed with eight beautiful grandchildren: Brayton (Bridgette) Thomas, Alyssa, Brianna Thomas, Tyler and Karah Riley, Luke Abbott and Genesis Cornett. Also, two great-grandchildren: Kyreigh Burdine and Baby J due in October 2020. Ruthanne also leaves behind two sisters: Margaret Harding, and Marceil Bar-
ragan; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister Lynda Brower, and a grandbaby Melannie Abbott. Visitation was held from noon to 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 26, 2020, at FlowersLeedy Funeral Home, 105 West Third Street, Peru, Indiana. Reflections of life and a funeral service followed at 2 p.m. Private graveside service will take place at a later date at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Peru. The family would like to extend special thanks to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home, and Miller’s of Peru. Arrangements were entrusted to Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.
Marie M. Walker, 95 Marie M. Walker, 95, of Peru, passed away Saturday, May 16, 2020, at Blair Ridge Health Campus.
as well as Michigan. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.
She was born in Germany April 16, 1925, to Herman and Margaret (Fiege) Purschel. She married John W. Walker Sr. Oct. 9, 1945. He preceded her in death. Marie enjoyed gardening and cooking, and loved music and church choir. She was a member of St. Charles Catholic Church.
A private family service was held Wednesday, May 20, 2020, with Father Adam Mauman officiating. Burial took place at Springdale Cemetery in Bunker Hill, Indiana.
She is survived by her son,
John Walker Jr. of Peru, as well as a sister in Germany, and several nieces and nephews in Germany,
Arrangements were entrusted to Allen Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.
When the time comes to make final arrangements, let the funeral home know you would like to have the obituary published in The Paper of Miami County.
136 S. Elm St. | Bunker Hill 765.689.9411 Fax 765.473.5996 info@flowersleedyallen.com
Jerry Dean Brown,70 Jerry Dean Brown, 70, of Peru, passed away Saturday, May 16, 2020, at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. Jerry was born in Cookville, Tennessee, to Dorothy (Smooth) and Carmen Brown Aug. 23, 1949. He served in the Vietnam War from 19731975 in the United States Air Force Reserve and the United States Navy as a Navy Sea Bee. After the war, Jerry went on to be an excavating engineer and a long-haul semi driver. Jerry was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying gardening, hunting, fishing and gunsmithing. He married June (Murphy) Brown Aug. 23, 2008. She survives. Surviving Jerry are his mother Lorraine of Peru; and six children: Stephanie Haxton and Nathaniel Brown, both of Peru, Indiana, Michael Brown of Westport, Indiana, Jessica (Hitoshi) Takeda of Seymour, Indiana, Amy (Jeff) Davenport of Mex-
ico, Indiana, and Stacey (Calvin) Boomhower of Rochester, Indiana. Also, five brothers: David Thorpe and Eric Thorpe of Peru, Indiana, Steve Thorpe of Cookville, Tennessee, Jimmy (Kim) Brown of Houston, Maryland, and Tony (Anita) Brown of Marion, Indiana; and four sisters: Linda (Jeff) Fox of Peru, Indiana, Shirley (Mike) Burns of South Bend, Indiana, Connie (John) Martin of Granger, Indiana, and Michelle Thorpe of Cookville, Tennessee. Also surviving are 12 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents Carmen (Dorothy) Brown, grandparents Earnest (Josie) Smith, brother Billy Brown, sister Teresa Thorpe and grandchild Octavia Brown. Visitation was held from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, May 21, 2020, at Flowers-Leedy Funeral Home, 105 West Third Street, Peru, Indiana. A funeral service followed at 5 p.m., with pastor Aaron McCombs officiating. Burial will took place Friday, May 22, 2020, at Marion National Cemetery. Due to COVID-19 precautions, there were no graveside services. Love offerings to assist with funeral expense may be made to the family through the funeral home. Arrangements were entrusted to FlowersLeedy Funeral Home. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.FlowersLeedyAllen.com.
Kathryn Elizabeth White, 104
Kathryn Elizabeth White, “Granny,” 104, a resident of Cloverleaf of Knightsville, passed away at 11:35 p.m. Sunday, May 17, 2020. Born June 18, 1915, in Lena, Indiana, she was the daughter of John T. and Nancy J. Coombs Urton. She was a longtime resident of Reelsville, Indiana. Survivors include her grandson, Raymond (Lori) Urton; granddaughter, Sharon Fellows; great-grandchildren, Brent (Kelly) Urton, Melinda Hyde, Felicia
(Jon) Tindal, Jerilynn Urton, Annaleah Urton, Jeremy (Sarah) Templeton, Brandon (Ashley) Templeton, great greatgrandchildren Riley, Payton, Robbie, Emily, Erika,
Dustin, 3 great great great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by three brothers, three sisters, her only daughter, Norma Jean Denny; and grandson-inlaw, Devin Fellows. Funeral arrangements were entrusted to McClain Funeral Home, Denver, Indiana. The online guestbook can be signed at www.mcclainfh.com. A private family burial was in Boone-Hutcheson Cemetery, Reelsville.
Peru/Miami County YMCA Ready to get back into the gym? Thinking about attending some exercise classes? Want to begin swim lessons? Call the YMCA to find out what their plans are so you can make yours!
Call 765.472.1979
THE PAPER May 27, 2020
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Governor Holcomb’s ‘ Back On Track Indiana’ Where we are today...
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THE PAPER
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May 27, 2020
Police reports Miami County Sheriff ’s Department
May 19 A citizen requested a welfare check at 1150 Barksdale Avenue, Peru. A caller requested their credit card identity at 1306 W Blair Pike Rd, Peru. A citizen was locked out of their car at 7624 S Strawtown Pike, Bunker Hill. A 16 year-old male at 2105 Cannon Circle, Peru, refused to get in his parents’ vehicle to spend the summer at his grandparents’ house in Arkansas. A caller reported her ex-boyfriend threatened to hit her in an argument, and she reported this to the Miami County Sheriff ’s Department at the Miami County Jail, Peru. The caller said she would pursue a protective order. A vacation watch order was requested on N Meridian Rd, Peru. A 911 hangup was investigated at 2946 Travis St, Peru. Everything checked fine, as the cause was a baby playing on the phone. Trespassing was reported at 4414 W 1050 N, Macy. A citizen requested assistance at 10836 N Meridian Rd, Macy. A follow-up on the letter was received at the Miami County Sheriff ’s Department. A vehicle identification number check for a boat and trailer was requested at 5716 N 400 E, Peru. A complainant from 2324 E 250 S, Peru, had questions about her ex having a protection order against him and wanting to pick up items at their house. She stated she would have relatives standby and she would not be present. A possible overdose was reported at 8604 S 400 W, Bunker Hill. The subject was transported by EMS. An animal in a roadway was reported near W St. Road 16 and N U.S. 31, 1 mile east of Denver. The animal was unable to be located. A protective order was requested at 402 Jackson Avenue, Peru. An agency assis-
tance and welfare check were requested at 201 E Academy St, Amboy. A warrant service was investigated at 115 S Tippecanoe St, Peru. A traffic accident with damage was investigated near S U.S. 31 and W 800 S, north of Bunker Hill. Indiana State Police advised all other units could disregard this accident. A traffic stop was conducted at W Lovers Lane Road and N Mexico Rd, Peru. A warrant service was investigated at 8441 N Old Rt. 31, Denver. A juvenile was found in a roadway at W Bridge Street and N Mexico Road, Mexico. The juvenile was transported back to his residence. A warrant service was investigated at 303 N Water St, Peru. Indiana State Police was assisted in a traffic stop at 1775 E Monona Dr, Peru. A female had questions about a protective order at 927 S 250 W, Peru. A warrant service was investigated at 1421 E St. Road 18, Kokomo. Davion Jones was arrested at 402 Jackson Avenue, Peru, on charges of performing sexual misconduct with a minor. Todd Black, 1775 E Monona Dr, Peru, was arrested on charges of resisting law enforcement with a vehicle and operating while intoxicated. May 20 Domestic disturbance was reported at 207 N Jefferson St, Converse. Deputies could not locate anyone arguing. Disorderly conduct was reported at 3311 S St. Road 19, ArmourEckrich, Peru. A welfare check was requested at 201 E Academy St, Amboy, but the subject wasn’t found. A disabled vehicle was found near W 300 S and S U.S. 31, Peru. The driver said he could make it to the next truck stop and drove north. A disabled vehicle with a flat tire was found near S Bus. 31 and W Main St, Peru. A transport issue was
resolved at 1104 W 200 N, Miami County Sheriff ’s Det, Miami County Jail, Peru. An alarm went off at 2365 W St. Road 18, Kokomo. A transport issue was resolved at 1104 W 200 N, Miami County Sheriff ’s Det, Miami County Jail, Peru. An offender’s address was requested at 1603 N St. Road 19, Correll’s Mobile Home Park, Lot 2, Peru. A traffic accident with damage was investigated near S St. Road 19 and E 500 S, Peru. ISP conducted a vehicle search near S St. Road 19 and E 500 S, Peru. An elderly woman was helped back to her residence at 2934 S 300 W, Woodland Hills Mobile Home Park, Lot 143, Peru. An unwanted guest was removed from 2934 S 300 W, Woodland Hills Mobile Home Park, Lot 148, Peru, and given a trespass warning to not return. Disorderly conduct was reported at 2286 W 300 N, Peru. Subjects were advised how to obtain a protective order and to start the eviction process. The male and homeowner left to separate destinations. EMS was assisted with a medical run at 2776 N Mexico Rd, Peru. A warrant service was investigated at 1580 S 550 E, Peru. An alarm went off at 2365 W St. Road 18, Kokomo. Michael Maze of Peru was traveling North near 4703 S 50 W, Peru, on CR 50 W, near CR 500S in a silver 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. Maze stated he left the roadway to avoid a vehicle in his lane of travel. There was damage to the vehicle. No injuries were reported. A state crash report was submitted. A vehicle identification number check was completed at 4639 S 250 E, Peru. A suspicious vehicle was reported at 285 E Main St, McClure’s east, Peru. Everything checked fine. A male had questions about a civil matter at 2051 W
Matador St, Country Cottage Apartments, Apt. 6, Peru. A speeding citizen was pulled over near W Airport Road and S Bus. 31, Peru. A traffic stop was conducted near W 400 S and S 200 W, Peru. A traffic stop was conducted near N Holman Street and W Fifth St, Peru. A traffic stop was conducted near S St. Road 19 and E 500 S, Peru. A suspicious person or vehicle was investigated at 2934 S 300 W, Woodland Hills Mobile Home Park, Lot 222, Peru. A suspicious person or vehicle was investigated at 2934 S 300 W, Woodland Hills MHP, Main Office, Peru. A citizen was pulled over for speeding near W 400 N and N U.S. 31, Peru. Brayden Lilley of Peru was driving a red Ford ranger near N Mexico Road and W Kim Road, Peru, south on N Mexico Road when a deer entered the roadway from the east. Lilley struck the animal, causing damage to the front of the vehicle. No injuries were reported. A state cash report was completed. A traffic stop was conducted near S 50 W and W Riverside Dr, Peru. A suspicious package or item was investigated at 201 E Academy Street, Amboy. Reports of motorcycles running up and down a street at 3030 March St, across from Peru was investigated, but this was unable to be located. Krystal Sweares, 309 W Second Street, Peru, was arrested for possession of a syringe without a license. Christopher Alspach, 472 E Washington Street, Peru, was arrested for counts of intimidation, domestic battery and invasion of privacy. May 21 Disorderly conduct was reported at 3217 Schilling Street, Peru. A suspicious person or vehicle was investigated near W 300 S and S U.S. 31, Peru. A suspicious person or vehicle was investigated at 5177 E 950 N, Denver.
Criminal mischief was investigated at 3331 W 1050 N, Macy. A disabled vehicle was found near W St. Road 18 and S 100 W, Kokomo. An unoccupied vehicle was left at 9401 E St. Road 18, Converse and everything checked fine. An offender verification was requested at 167 W Seventh St, Peru. A transport issue was resolved at 1104 W 200 N, Miami County Sheriff ’s Det, Miami County Jail, Peru. A citizen required assistance at 2620 Capehart St, Peru. An overheating vehicle was found near W 500 S and S 200 W, Peru. A civil dispute occurred at 3257 W 500 S, Peru. The male said he would try to find alternate living arrangements. A welfare check was requested at 8910 N Meridian Rd, Denver. Fraud was reported at 1104 W 200 N, Miami County Sheriff ’s Det, Miami County Jail, Peru. A battery for a project lifesaver was replaced at 1104 W 200 N, Miami County Sheriff ’s Det, Miami County Jail, Peru. A trespassing individual was reported at 2939 W 400 N, Peru. Another agency handled the situation. A runaway juvenile report was filed at 4136 W Barberry Ln, Peru. A follow-up was conducted at 472 Washington Avenue, Peru. Fireworks were reported near S Poplar
Street and W 1050 S, Miami, but were unable to be located. A vehicle identification number check was completed at 2107 S Holiday Dr, Peru. A homeowner had a mailbox stuck at 7831 S Strawtown Pike, Bunker Hill. Assistance was given. A traffic violation was reported near W 1350 S and S U.S. 31, Kokomo. An offender verification was requested at 153 E Canal St, Peru. A suspicious package or item was investigated near S Bus. 31 and W River Rd, Peru. Disorderly conduct was reported at 2051 W Matador St, Country Cottage Apartments, Peru. Another agency handled the situation. An abandoned vehicle was found damaged near E 500 S and S Strawtown Pike, Peru. This is an ongoing investigation. Harassment was reported at 1846 Warhawk Rd, Peru. Harassment was reported at 2934 S 300 W, Woodland Hills MHP, Lot 148, Peru. A traffic accident with injuries was reported at 163 W 500 S, Peru. A civil issue was reported at 3015 W 500 S, Peru. Dillon Levier was arrested at 26 W 10th St, Peru, for charges of possessing cocaine, paraphenelia, methamphetamine, marijuana and dealing cocaine. May 22 An agency assistance was requested at 486
Madison Avenue, Peru. A prowler was reported at 17 Riggle Rd, Peru. A welfare check was requested at 106 W Marion St, Converse. Indiana State Police was assisted with a two-vehicle crash at E 400 S and S 250 E, Peru. A gas leak was reported at Harrison and Yorick, Denver. A vehicle identification check was completed at 275 W Commerce St, Macy. An agency assistance was requested near E U.S. 24 and N 300 E, Peru. A welfare check was requested at 39032 Edwards Ct, Peru. A traffic hazard was reported near W 500 S and S U.S. 31, Peru. An agency assistance was requested at 201 E Academy St, Amboy. A citizen asked a question about a juvenile at 3207 Schilling St, Peru. A non-domestic fight was resolved at 3017 W 500 S, Valley MHP, Peru. A vehicle identification number check was completed at 6273 N Eel River Rd, Denver. A protective order was served in person at 2286 W 300 N, Peru. An alarm went off at 3652 N Mexico Rd, Peru. A vacation watch order was requested near S Wallick Road and W 300 S, Peru. A protective order was served in person at 2286 W 300 N, Peru. A traffic hazard was reported at 3015 W 850 See Police, page 7
THE PAPER May 27, 2020
www.thepaperofmiami.com
Police
Some sprinkles were reported in the area Saturday, but Memorial Day stayed dry throughout Miami County. Photo by Michelle Boswell
Miller earns courage award at MCF Commissioner of the Indiana Department of Correction Rob Carter in collaboration with Staff Development and Training recognized Unit Team Manager (UTM) Katie Miller of Miami Correctional Facility (MCF) with the Courage Award. The Courage Award is for staff members demonstrating true leadership by making bold decisions and developing groundbreaking ideas and solutions. UTM Miller has been an essential during the COVID-19 pandemic. She has been a tremendous liaison between the executive and front-line staff, by maintaining a con-
stant communication between them. Her relentless efforts to keep the team informed have made a huge impact on the successful mitigation of COVID19 at MCF. Ms. Miller continues to impact others everyday with her outstanding work ethic and positive attitude. Deputy Warden Sharon Hawk Commented, “Ms. Miller continues to display a positive attitude and works to keep the communications flowing and expectations achievable. Her followthrough is demonstrated every day and her work ethic is one of the best I have ever seen. I am very pleased to see her rec-
ognized. Warden Bill Hyatte commented, “I am very glad to see Ms. Miller receive this award and she is most deserving of the recognition. I thank
Commissioner Carter and his staff for taking the time to show how much they care about their team. ‘One Team, One Goal’.”
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S, Gallahan Kwik Mart, Bunker Hill. A broken-down motorist was found near W 500 S and S U.S. 31, Peru. Theft of tools from a residence was reported at 1029 N Lincoln St, Peru. A protective order was requested at 180 W Seventh St, Peru, but was unable to be located. A vehicle identification number check was completed at 1256 W 800 N, Denver. A protective order was requested at 2596 S 400 W, Peru, but the subject has not lived at this address in 10 years. A traffic stop was conducted at 170 N Broadway Street, Subway, Peru. A protective order was served in person at 1316 Donaldson Avenue, Peru. A fire broke out near W 1200 N and N U.S. 31, Macy. A traffic stop was conducted near E St. Road 18 and S 400 E, Kokomo. A male had questions about flying drones in Miami County at 3338 S St. Road 19, Peru. A disabled vehicle with a flat tire and note in the window saying he would get a spare shortly was found near E 950 S and S St. Road 19, Amboy. A traffic stop was conducted at W 400 S and S 200 W, Peru. Awning was removed from a roadway at W 200 N and N U.S. 31, Peru. An alarm went off at 1630 W Logansport Rd, Peru. The building checked secure. A speeding citizen was pulled over near N Mexico Road and N Eel River Rd, Peru. ISP was dispatched to handle an agency as-
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continued from page 6 sistance at S Strawtown Pike and Ethan Court, Peru. A suspicious vehicle was investigated at 2316 N Mexico Rd, American Stationary, Peru. The vehicle checked fine. A vehicle fire was reported at E 1200 S and S 300 S, Kokomo. Criminal mischief was reported at 3089 S Wallick Rd, Peru. Individuals were walking near a roadway near W Ellis Rd and S Business 31, Peru. They checked OK. May 23 A welfare check was requested at 1164 Barksdale Avenue, Peru. An agency assistance was requested at Center St, Lot 46, Peru. A complainant said she received threats from an individual whose children she watched at 2905 Travis St, Peru. These threats were relayed through a mutual friend. A citizen dispute was resolved near W Cherry and S Poplar streets, Miami. A driver under the influence was investigated near S Graber Dr. and S U.S. 31, Peru. A transport issue was resolved at 1104 W 200 N, Miami County Sheriff ’s Det, Miami County Jail, Peru. A citizen requested assistance at 3371 N 500 W, Peru. An abandoned vehicle with a flat tire was found at E 950 S and E St. Road 19, Amboy. An alarm went off at 73 E Washington St, Denver. The door was open, but the keyholder was not found. A traffic violation was reported near W 100 N and N U.S. 31,
Peru. Austin Creek was stopping for a light changing to red near S U.S. 31 and W St. Road 218, Peru, in his Jeep Cherokee when he was rear ended by a Mazda pick up driven by Dennis Nicholas. Complaint of back pain was noted in one of the drivers. A follow-up was conducted near W 900 N and N U.S. 31, Macy. A wanted person was investigated at 2582 S Willow Creek Dr, Peru. A traffic stop was conducted near S Bus. 31 and S U.S. 31, Peru. A mental case was taken care of at 2051 W Matador St, Country Cottage Apartments, Peru. Trespassing occurred at 2939 W 400 N, Peru. A traffic violation was investigated near W 1400 S and S U.S. 31, Kokomo. Andrew Myers was backing out of a parking spot at 2598 S Bus. 31, Pizza Quik, Peru, in a Cadillac CTS, when he backed into an unoccupied Ford Five Hundred owned by Connor Mathias. No injuries were reported. A traffic stop was conducted at W Eel River Rd and U.S. 31, Peru. A suspicious package or item was reported at 9602 S 300 E, Amboy, but was unable to be located. Disorderly conduct was reported at 3209 Schilling St, Peru and everything checked fine. A parking problem occurred at 2021 Shaw St, Peru. The vehicle was removed. An unwanted guest was reported at 1105 Barksdale Avenue, Peru, but the subject
See Police, page 8
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THE PAPER
www.thepaperofmiami.com
May 27, 2020
Annual performance awards presented at MCF Supervisor, employee, correctional officer and contract employees of the year announced
Miami Correctional Facility (MCF) Warden Bill Hyatte recognizes staff with Annual Perfor mance Awards. Every year during National Correctional Professional Appreciation Week staff in the Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC) are recognized for outstanding work performance. The Warden of each facility awards Supervisor of the Year, Employee of the Year, correctional officer of the Year and Contract Employee of the Year. These awards go to team member who have performed above and beyond what was required. Warden Bill Hyatte commented, “I look forward every year to recognizing staff for their accomplishments. While we face many great challenges, especially this
year, the staff continue to rise to the occasion. They are well deserving of the recognition they have received. I think all the award recipients would say none of this would be possible without an outstanding team behind them. As I often say, ‘One Team, One Goal’.” Casie Klepinger was awarded the Supervisor of the Year Award. Ms. Klepinger is the Assistant Lead Investigator in MCF’s Division of Investigations and Intelligence (D.I.I.). She began her career with the IDOC in 2007 at MCF in the Classification Department before transitioning to D.I.I. in 2008. She recently took on additional responsibilities during a staff absence, due to a family emergency. Lead Investigator Lorna Harbaugh com-
“I look forward every year to recognizing staff for their accomplishments. While we face many great challenges, especially this year, the staff continue to rise to the occasion. They are well deserving of the recognition they have received.” Bill Hyatte MCF Warden mented, “Ms. Klepinger stepped into my position as Department Head while I was gone. She continued to complete her own duties as well as maintain the operations of D.I.I. Casie is dedicated, takes ownership of her position, and a great team member.” George Rentschler was awarded the Employee of the Year Award. Mr. Rentschler began his career at MCF in December 2014 as a
correctional officer. He transitioned to Caseworker in December 2018. In that time, Mr. Rentschler has demonstrated an outstanding ability to perform as a team member. He always places the goals of the department first. Mr. Rentschler constantly goes the extra mile to accomplish any duties assigned to him with a positive attitude. Deputy Warden Sharon Hawk noted, “Mr. Rentschler’s hard work and dedication
is outstanding. He has a great team spirit and is always working to improve our work environment. Mr. Rentschler continually sets a great example for all staff, this award is well deserved.” Correctional officer Richard Jones earned the correctional officer of the Year Award. He began his career in December 2006 and has worked many positions at MCF and is currently the Warehouse Officer. As the
Warehouse Officer he is the first line of defense, identifying contraband entering the facility through warehouse shipments. His attention to detail has stop numerous illegal and unauthorized items from enter the secured perimeter of the facility. His sixth sense, developed from experience, has served MCF well. Deputy Warden George Payne Jr. commented, “Officer Jones is a great officer, he takes ownership of his position, he is very conscious of his surroundings and always willing to step-up. He works well on his own with minimal supervision needed. These are all traits we like to see in all staff.” Wexford Administrator Lee Ann Ivers was awarded the Contract Employee of the Year Award. Ms.
Ivers began her career in corrections as a registered nurse in 2005. While working in this position, she established a seamless working relationship between her department and others. She has used great communication skills and knowledge to accomplish this. Speaking about her award Ms. Ivers said, “This award is not just a reflection of my work but the work of the entire Medical Department. I’m grateful to everyone. Deputy Warden Sharon Hawk commented, “Ms. Ivers is a wonderful communicator and facilitates a great working experience between the Department of Correction and our medical provider Wexford. It was a pleasure to see her receive this recognition.”
Miami County man completes degree at Trine University Students on Trine University's main campus completed degrees at the end of the Spring 2020 se-
mester. Zachariah Hollis of Peru, Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering.
Primaries to be held June 2 Primary elections are quickly approaching and locations for early voting have been identified. The Saturday before the actual primary, May 30, four locations will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Those locations include: Bunker Hill Baptist Church, 279 W Broadway, Bunker Hill; Converse Town Hall, 210 N Jefferson St., Converse; Denver Baptist Church, 111 N Yorick, Denver and the Miami County Courthouse, 25 N Broadway, Peru.
Police
Because of COVID19, primaries were moved back to June 2. Along with the four early voting locations listed, an additional four locations will be open for the primaries. They are: 4-H Fairgrounds, 1079 W 200 N, Peru; Area Five Agency, 1540 E Paw Paw Pike, Peru; Macy Christian Church, 190 E Commerce St., Macy, and Parkview United Methodist, 1785 S State Road 19, Peru. Voting will be from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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left before the officer’s arrival. A citizen requested assistance at 3286 W 1400 S, Kokomo. Everything checked fine. A traffic stop was conducted near S Bus. 31 and S U.S. 31, Peru. A traffic accident with damage was reported near S Bus. 31 and S U.S. 31, Peru. A speeding citizen was pulled over near W 300 S and S U.S. 31,
Peru. A slashed tire was reported at 42024 Hamilton Court, Peru, and a criminal report was written. A suspicious person or vehicle was investigated at 2484 S 400 W, Peru. A traffic stop was conducted near N Cass and W Main Streets, Peru. Fireworks were reported at 1076 E St. Road 18, Kokomo.