Osborn Becomes Third GOP Candidate To Run For Sheriff
Friday, July 3, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The field of Republican candidates for the office of Steuben County Sheriff has grown to three. Ashley Chief Deputy and Police Captain Garry Osborn has announced he will be a candidate in next May's primary election. Osborn has been on the force for 14 years, first as a reserve officer and then as a fulltime officer starting in 2001. He says he has gotten a lot of encouragement about running for the job that Rick Lewis has to give up at the end of 2010 due to term limits. Two current members of the Sheriffs Department, Tim Troyer and A.J. Carpenter, earlier announced their plans to run for Sheriff next year.

Another Deer Hunt Scheduled For Pokagon
Friday, July 3, 2009

(LAKE JAMES) - The State of Indiana has scheduled another round of controlled deer hunts at Pokagon and Chain O'Lakes State Parks for later this year in an effort to maintain park ecosystem. Pokagon and Chain O'Lakes will be among the 17 Indiana state parks to hold the controlled deer hunts on November 16th and 17th and again on November 30th and December 1st. No deer hunting will take place at the Indiana Dunes State Park after it was determined hunters culled enough deer from the park last year to make a hunt unnecessary in 2009. The Indiana D.N.R. is now accepting applications for the deer hunts at www.indianaoutdoor.in.gov. Hunters killed over 1,400 deer last year during hunts at state parks.

Fireworks Schedule For Tri State Area
Friday, July 3, 2009

Here is a listing of where fireworks shows will be in the tri-state area (as of 7/03/09):

Friday, July 3rd
Coldwater Lake-MI
Defiance-OH
Lake James-IN at Pokagon State Park
Sturgis-MI
Union City-MI at the Athletic Field
Wolcottville-IN
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Saturday, July 4th
Angola-IN at Commons Park
Clear Lake-IN at the Island
Colon-MI
Constantine-MI
Coldwater-MI at Heritage Park
Ft. Wayne-IN
Kendallville-Bixler Lake Park
Rome City-IN on Sylvan Lake
Quincy-MI
Maumee-OH held at the Chamber of Commerce
Monroe County-OH at Sterling State Park
Napoleon-OH
Perrysburg-OH held at Fort Meigs
Sylvania-OH held at Centennial Terrace
Topeka-IN
Van Wert-OH
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Sunday, July 5th
Ottawa-OH
Stroh-IN
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Saturday, July 11th
Fremont-IN at the Moose Lodge

Two Arrested, BCSD Deputy Injured During Rolling Meth Lab Investigation
Friday, July 3, 2009

(COLDWATER) - Two Coldwater men were arrested and a Branch County Sheriffs Department deputy suffered minor injuries yesterday morning during an investigation involving an alleged rolling meth lab. No news release was issued by the Sheriffs Department but reports indicate Deputy Tony Reyna was on the passenger side when a vehicle containing the two suspects started to drive away after it was stopped by the Sheriffs Department on River Road for weaving. Reyna held on to the vehicle for several hundred feet. He then dove into the car and successfully subdued the driver. 34-year-old Bart Petriken was arrested on numerous charges including fleeing and eluding. He along with 31-year-old Brian Fields were both booked on charges of operating and maintaining a meth lab. Both were arraigned yesterday in Branch County District Court. Bond for Petriken was set at $500,000 while Fields is being held on a $100,000 bond.

Downtown Angola Hit And Run Accident Injures Three, Damages Store Window
Friday, July 3, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Three people were injured in a hit and run accident which caused part of a cement trash barrel to crash into a front window of the Then and Now Antique Store in downtown Angola on Thursday afternoon. The crash on West Maumee at Elizabeth took place shortly before 3:00. Angola Police report two cars collided in the intersection. One of the vehicles then struck the trash can and the parked S.U.V.. Part of the trash can hit the S.U.V. while the trash can's lid crashed into the antique stores window. Angola Police say a 17-year-old boy left the scene and was eventually captured after his vehicle was later found at Ju-Le-An Estates on West Mill. A woman from Ohio who was in the store said she heard glass breaking and a child screaming when the accident took place. The injured persons were identified as 78-year-old Betty Perrey of Angola along with three-year-old Bridgett Seghy of Strongville, Ohio and 65-year-old Diana Corcoran of Bay Village, Ohio. They were all taken to Cameron Hospital. Perrey and Corcoran were treated and released. No patient information was available on the child. The damaged window was later boarded up. The Steuben County Sheriffs Department and Indiana State Police assisted Angola officers.

Univertical Expansion On Monday's City Council Agenda
Thursday, July 2, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Angola City Council is scheduled on Monday night to vote on a six year deduction from assesed valuation for new manufacturing equipment at Univertical. The business is located in what is considered to be an economic revitalization area on Weatherhead Street. After recent commintments were made by the city, county and state to help clean up an enviromental mess left behind by Dana-Weatherhead during the 1990's, Univertical President Chuck Walker decided to keep the company in Angola. The enviromental issues almost forced the company to leave the area several months ago which would have meant the loss of nearly 60 jobs. The Council is also scheduled to go over information from John Julian of Umbaugh and Associates concerning sewer rates and charges to help I.D.E.M. clean up the site and to help pay for the Wastewater System Inprovement Project. The Council is also scheduled to consider a seven-year request for deduction from assesed valuation from C & K Tool Enterprises on Growth Parkway for new manufacturing equipment. Monday's nights meeting promises to be a long one with 23 items on the agenda.

Future Plans For County Home Discussed During Commissioners Meeting
Thursday, July 2, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Future plans for the Steuben County home on 200 West were discussed during Thursday mornings County Commissioners meeting. With the work release program coming to an end due to budget cuts, the maintenance department's Jason Ireland say water testing would not be needed until the building was occupied again. He also said the County Highway Department has allowed one of their tractors to be used for maintenence of the property which includes the mowing of the lawn. Ireland was given permission by Commissioners to continue using the tractor on a temporary basis. If a state Department of Corrections grant is approved, Steuben County Community Corrections would move into the building. Community Corrections Director Brett Hayes was optimistic but County Commission Chair Mayo Sanders wondered if such a move would save the county any money. Sanders added it was still something that had to be looked at further.

APD, AFD And SCSD Promote Safe Use Of Fireworks
Thursday, July 2, 2009

(UNDATED) - With the Fourth of July holiday upon us, the Angola Fire and Police Departments along with the Steuben County Sheriffs Department is encouraging everyone to enjoy fireworks in the safest way possible. It's recommended for your safety that you go to firework shows presented by trained professionals. If you buy fireworks for private use, use them responsibly and take safety precautions. Anyone with firework-related complaints in the city of Angola can call Angola Police at 665-2121. Anyone with complaints in the county can call Steuben County Commutations at 665-5521. 9-1-1 is to be used for emergencies only. Indiana State Law allows adults age 18 and older to purchase fireworks for use on the user's property, the property of someone who has consented to the use of fireworks or at a special discharge location designated by the Indiana State Fire Marshal. Under a Steuben County ordinance, consumer fireworks can only be shot off between 5:00pm and 2 hours after sunset tonight and tomorrow as well as from Sunday through Thursday of next week. They can be used from 10:00am until midnight on the Fourth of July. According to a report from the Indiana State Department of Health 48% of all firework-related injuries in Indiana during 2007 involved children and adolescents.

City Announces Street Closings For Next Week
Thursday, July 2, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Several streets southeast of the Steuben County courthouse will be undergoing milling and resurfacing work next week. The city of Angola has announced that milling work will start Monday on South Martha, East Gale, East South Street and Redding Lane. Those streets are scheduled to be re-surfaced next Thursday, July 9th. There will be no parking along those streets on Monday or Thursday. Thru traffic will be permitted if absolutely necessary but if possible drivers are being asked to avoid the area all together during construction.

Plan Commission Gets Earfull On Controversial Lake George House
Thursday, July 2, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Steuben County Plan Commission was asked on Wednesday night by a pair of frustrated Lake George property owners to enforce county ordinances concerning a house on Lane 130-A that has generated angry feelings between neighbors. The Steuben County Board of Zoning Appeals voted on June 8th to deny a post construction variance on the house after it was built seven feet higher than what is permitted in Steuben County Zoning Ordinances. The ordinance calls for two-story homes without basements to be no more than 27 feet high. Attorney John Grimm from Auburn spoke last night on behalf of his client Jim Getz. Grimm said the home does not conform to county ordinances and that work should be stopped. County Plan Director Zach Michels said he was working with the contractor to bring the house up to requirements and County Attorney Don Stuckey said the house has to be given a chance to come into compliance. Stuckey said no occupancy permit will be issued until that happens. Drainage and grade elevation have been the main concerns raised by neighbors. In other business, Michels and the Plan Commission went over part of a proposed ordinance that would cover the installation and operation of wind turbines in the county. Michels discussed size classifications last night as well as other items including the application process, permits, zoning, height and setbacks. Another discussion on the proposed ordinance is expected to take place during next months Plan Commission meeting.

Woman Rescued From Burning Auburn Home
Thursday, July 2, 2009

(AUBURN) - Firefighters rescued a woman from her burning Auburn home Thursday morning in the 800 block of Cherokee Court. The Auburn Fire Department reports the blaze broke out just before 11:00am. Firefighters were told at the time of dispatch there could be people trapped inside. Crews encountered smoke and flames coming from the home when they arrived. Home occupant Kitty Starbuck was found unconscious near a bathroom and was quickly taken outside to the front of the home. Assistant Fire Chief Michael Good says she was not breathing and did not have a pulse. Rescue crews performed C.P.R. on her before Starbuck was taken to DeKalb Memorial Hospital. She was later transferred to St. Joe Hospital in Fort Wayne. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Auburn Fire Department and the State Fire Marshal's office. Auburn got mutual aide from the Garrett and Waterloo Fire Departments.

Kendallville Woman Injured In Milford Township Accident
Thursday, July 2, 2009

(MILFORD TOWNSHIP) - A Kendallville woman was injured Wednesday when her car crossed the center line and struck a pickup truck in LaGrange County’s Milford Township. 21-year-old Carrie Buchs suffered pain to her shoulder and left side and her vehicle was totaled in the collision. Police say Buchs told them she was distracted and was using a cellphone at the time of the crash, which happened on County Road 600-South just east of 900-East. They say the other driver, 50-year-old Jeffrey Vanallen of Harlan was unable to avoid the collision. He was not injured.

Two Year State Budget Approved, State Government Shutdown Averted
Wednesday, July 1, 2009

(INDIANAPOLIS) - (AP) - Campers at Pokagon State Park can stay put. The park along with the rest of Indiana state government will be open for business as usual on Wednesday. A two-year state budget was passed by Indiana lawmakers on Tuesday afternoon after weeks of partisian battles. The spending plan was adopted with just hours to spare before the current spending plan expired at midnight which would have led to a state government shutdown except for essential services. The budget was passed in the Republican-controlled Senate 34-16 and in the Democratic-led House 62-37. State Senator Dennis Kruse and State Representative Dick Dodge joined fellow Republicans by voting yes. The $27.8 billion budget bill was later signed by Governor Daniels. Republican leaders say he supports it because it will protect the state's reserves. A logjam over school funding was finally broken on Monday as leaders of both parties agreed to a compromise on the contentious issue.

Reward Offered In Theft Of Vehicle, Trailer and Golf Carts
Wednesday, July 1, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Steuben County Crime Stoppers is looking for information regarding the thefts in recent days of a Chevy Suburban, a trailer and two golf carts. The Suburban was taken from Corkles Autos, the trailer was stolen from Van Gorden Construction and the two golf carts were taken from Hot Rod Golf Carts. Crime Stoppers Coordinator Shari Dean says the trailer was used to load up the golf carts. The Suburban and trailer were later found in Joliet, Illinois after they were set on fire. The golf carts are still missing. One is red in color with white seats while the other was black with a tan seat and top. If you have any information about these thefts, call Steuben County Crime Stoppers at 668-STOP or 1-800-600-HALT. You don't have to give your name and your tip could lead to a cash reward of up to $1,000.

Setback For Proposed Tribal Casino Near Sturgis
Wednesday, July 1, 2009

(LANSING) – There was much excitement when plans for a proposed tribal casino near Sturgis just north of the Toll Road's Howe exit were announced several months ago. There were hopes it would provide hundreds of new jobs for an area which has been hit hard by the recession. But a Michigan state legislator says chances are slim state gaming laws will be changed to allow the casino. State Representative Matt Lori of Constantine says in a press release that after looking into the issue, the legal hurdles for the Burt Lake Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, combined with the dynamics in the Legislature at the current time, are too much to overcome. The Burt Lake Band has tried and failed to receive federal recognition as a tribe four times. Without federal recognition, Lori says the tribe is unable to establish a casino under state gaming laws. State Senator Cameron Brown of Sturgis previously said he believed it would not be possible to gain recognition from the state to modify gaming laws, and Lori’s investigation confirms that position. Lori says from his point of view, it would be fruitless to continue pursuing legislation that has very little hope of succeeding at this time. Rather than give people false hope, Lori says we need to move on to find another solution. Lori says he is willing to meet with developers and Sturgis City Officials on how best to proceed.

Budget Passed, But FW Philharmonic Concert Moved Because of Weather
Wednesday, July 1, 2009

New Steuben County Engineer Starts Today
Wednesday, July 1, 2009

(ANGOLA) - For the first time in over two years, Steuben County has an engineer. Keith Lytton began his new job today after he was recently hired by Steuben County Commissioners. The position has been open since April of 2007 when Dave Sommerlott left. Lytton was most recently the engineer in Noble County.

County Commissioners Meet Tomorrow To Go Over 2010 Department Budgets
Wednesday, July 1, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Steuben County Commissioners will meet tomorrow morning instead of the usual first Monday of the month to go over proposed 2010 budgets with various department heads. It's the first part of a nearly two month process for the county's 2010 spending plan to be put in place. The Steuben County Council's first reading of the proposed department budgets is scheduled to take place on August 18th. The Council will then hold budget meetings on September 2nd, 3rd and 4th. Final adoption of the budget is scheduled to take place on September 8th.

LaGrange Farmers Market Meeting Scheduled
Wednesday, July 1, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - An organizational meeting for a midweek farmers market in LaGrange will be next Wednesday night at 7:00pm in the first floor meeting room of the LaGrange County Office Building. Anyone interested in selling produce and home processed baked goods, jams, and jellies at a midweek market opportunity in addition to the several Saturday markets in the area are encouraged to attend. Purdue Extension Educator Steve Engleking will facilitate the meeting to develop basic rules and select leadership for the new market. Contact the LaGrange County Purdue Extension Office at 499-6334 if you have any questions.

Topeka Woman Charged In Child's Death
Tuesday, June 30, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - A Topeka woman is charged in LaGrange County with neglect of a dependent. 31-year-old Christy Shaffer is facing two counts after reportedly being indicted by a grand jury in the March death of 15-month-old Alissa Guernsey. The Journal Gazette of Fort Wayne reports Guernsey was in Shaffer’s custody at the time, and that the two were related. A spokeswoman for the Department of Children Services said Shaffer had passed a background check before the child was placed with her, but was not a foster parent. Shaffer was booked last Friday at the LaGrange County Jail. She is free after posting bond. The child's grandfather told the Herald-Republican that the charges filed against Shaffer were unjustified.

Two Troopers From Coldwater Post Laid Off
Tuesday, June 30, 2009

(COLDWATER) - Two Michigan State Police troopers from the Coldwater Post are among the nearly 100 troopers around the state who have been laid off as part of Michigan's latest round of belt tightening. The lay offs took place on Sunday after the troopers union voted last week not to take furloughs. Michigan State Police Director Peter Munoz says he was disappointed a solution could not be found to avert the layoffs. He said in a statement that there was no doubt the layoffs will impact the level of service the department provides.

Gil Sentenced To 60 Years For "Depraved" Crime
Monday, June 29, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A plea agreement for a man charged with setting a car on fire last December that had a 13-year-old girl inside was accepted Monday morning by Steuben Superior Court Judge William Fee. Under terms of the plea agreement, 40-year-old Joe Gil Junior was given a total of 60 years in prison on a Class A felony of Arson Resulting in Bodily Injury and for being an habitual offender. In exchange for his guilty pleas, Class A felony charges of attempted murder and child molesting were dismissed by prosecutors. Gil was arrested on December 11th after the girl suffered serious burns in the incident which took place outside of Gil's residence near the intersection of Randolph and Victoria. Prosecutor Tom Wilson said the victim did not want to be in the courtroom and instead submitted a letter from her to the judge. After silently reading the letter, Judge Fee chewed out Gil by calling what the defendant did callous and one of the more depraved and cruel things that he has seen during his time on the bench. The judge said he accepted the plea agreement in order to bring closure to a situation that could have turned out worse and he called the victim a survivor. Gil only rocked back and forth in his chair and showed no emotion as the sentence was pronounced.

Friedel Sentenced To Six Years On Drug Charges
Monday, June 29, 2009

(ANGOLA) - An Angola man was given a total sentence of six years in Steuben Superior Court on Monday morning after he earlier pled guilty to three Class D felony drug charges for possession of marijuana and methamphetamine and maintaining a common nuisance. After lawyers on both sides agreed 20-year-old Matthew Wayne Friedel was trying to turn his life around, he was allowed to spend the first four years of the sentence in community corrections where he will be lodged in the Transitional Living Facility. The last two years of time will be served on home detention. Other charges were dropped in exchange for the guilty pleas.

New SCCF Grant Procedure Explained
Monday, June 29, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Steuben County Community Foundation Grants Administrator Bill Stockberger explained to representatives of various non-profit agencies on Monday morning how their grant making process will work over the next 12 to 18 months. He said the economic downtown is the biggest reason they have made the change to help the most needy. He pointed out there are more people in the county who are now in poverty and who need assistance. According to Stockberger, there are nearly 2,500 people now on food stamps in Steuben County while nearly 1,900 students are receiving free or reduced lunches. Grants applications will continue to be reviewed every two months. While they are encouraging one grant per cycle, Stockberger said the Foundation will always try to help those in dire financial need.

Vandals Damage Milford Elementary
Monday, June 29, 2009

(MILFORD TOWNSHIP) - Police say vandals damaged Milford Elementary School sometime during the weekend. A custodian this morning noticed someone had climbed onto the roof of the school and damaged the cooling unit for the kitchen freezer. They also broke the roof top air shaft for the gymnasium heater and air conditioner. The damage was estimated at $2,000. LaGrange County deputies say the damage may be related to other acts of vandalism in the Pretty Lake area over the weekend. Anyone with information is asked to call the Sheriff’s Department or Crimestoppers.

Man Airlifted After Williams Center Mobile Home Burns
Monday, June 29, 2009

(Williams Center, OH) – The owner of a mobile home was airlifted to Toledo late Friday night after a fire broke out in his residence on State Route 576 near Williams Center. Roy Hueppelsheuser was reported to be in stable condition today at St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center after suffering burns on thirty percent of his body. The Bryan Fire Department was dispatched to the blaze just after 10:30pn on Friday night. Bryan Fire Chief Bruce Siders says the structure was fully engulfed when crews arrived. Another mobile home, owned by David Gearen, also was damaged by heat that buckled aluminum siding. Assisting at the scene were Montpelier, Edgerton, and Farmer Fire departments, along with the Williams County E.M.S.. One firefighter also was treated for heat exhaustion. The mobile home was a total loss, however the total dollar amount of damages is not yet available. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Three Injured, One Flown Out After Toll Road Crash
Sunday, June 28, 2009

(ORLAND) - One person was flown to Lutheran Hospital and two others were injured after an S.U.V. rolled over on the Toll Road just after noon on Saturday. Indiana State Police say the accident happened near the 134 mile marker at about 12:20pm after the driver tried to change a C.D.. A backseat passenger in the S.U.V., 26-year-old Andrew Horvath of Balacynwyd, Pennsylvania, was ejected and apparently the vehicle rolled over him before it came to a stop. He was flown to Parkview with a broken pelvis. The driver and another passnger were taken to Cameron Hospital for treatment of their injuries.

Fr. Fred Thanks Those Who Helped Football Team
Sunday, June 28, 2009

(ANGOLA) - St. Anthony's Catholic Church Pastor Father Fred Pasche thanked those on Sunday who helped out members of the London Silverbacks semi-pro football team last week after their bus was involved in a fatal traffic accident on I-69 near the 200 North bridge. He said team owner Alan Lazar flew home on Tuesday night after being released from Parkview Hospital. 11 other team members were treated and released from Cameron Hospital. The crash took the life of Beth Smith of Peru, Indiana who was the wife of PGA Tour Pro Chris Smith. Those on the bus were taken to St. Anthony's where members of the parish provided them with food and support during a difficult time in the hours after the accident. Fr. Pasche said at the end of Sunday's 10:00 Mass that everybody responded in a Christian way. He read a letter from the wife of one of the players who thanked everybody for their support. Fr. Pasche added they got letters this week from Bishop John D'Arcy and from the American Red Cross. Bishop D'Arcy indicated in his letter that an article on what St. Anthony's did will be in an upcoming issue of Today's Catholic.

Two Saturday Drownings Within 35 Minutes In LaGrange County
Sunday, June 28, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - Saturday turned out to be a tragic day on LaGrange County lakes as two drownings were reported within about 35 minutes of one another. Indiana Conservation Officers say the first was reported just before 5:00 on Dallas Lake near Valentine while the second was reported at about 5:35 on Cass Lake near Shipshewana. The Cass Lake incident involved a toddler who turned up missing and was eventually found at the end of a pier. 3-year-old Kennedy Stansbury of Wakarusa was swimming with friends and relatives around 5:30pm. She was found in water about four feet deep. CPR was started and an ambulance took her to Parkview LaGrange Hospital where she was pronounced dead about an hour later. Conservation Officer Rodney Clear says an autopsy on Sunday determined the cause of death to be asphyxia caused by accidental drowning. Meanwhile, a Wolcotville woman drowned in Dallas Lake while playing frisbee with the family dog. Clear says 41-year-old Kelly Smith swam out to deep water to retrieve the frisbee when she struggled and slipped below the surface just before 5:00pm. Within 12 minutes, Harold "Bud" Rea of Wolcottvulle was able to dive 12 to 16 feet and recover Smith, who was taken to a waiting ambulance on shore. But Smith was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy conducted Sunday determined her death was caused by asphyxiation due to drowning.

Marijuana Found By 11-year-old Boy And Dog
Sunday, June 28, 2009

(ORLAND) - An 11-year-old boy made quite a discovery while walking his dog on Sunday morning in the area of 900 West and Orland Road. Steuben County authorities say after the dog got away, the youngster found the animal along with a total of 44 cultivated marijuana plants in five gallon buckets that were growing along a tree line near a swamp. All of the plants were between three to four feet high. No arrests have been made. The plants were removed by the Steuben County Sheriffs Department and were being prepared to be destroyed.

Souder Votes No Against National Energy Tax Bill
Saturday, June 27, 2009

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - Indiana Republican Congressman Mark Souder was in the minority on Friday as the U.S. House of Representatives approved a national energy tax bill on a vote of 219-212. Souder feels the bill would impose a restrictive tax on local manufacturers that require significant energy sources. Souder added in a press release that it "might as well have been named the ‘cap-and-trade-our-jobs-to-China’ bill.” He fears consumers will feel the impact of the legislation eventually through higher prices. The bill now moves onto the Senate.

New Counselor Added To Cameron Hospital Counseling Center Staff
Saturday, June 27, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Officials at Cameron Hospital have announced the appointment of Dianne Daugherty as a counselor at the hospital's counseling center. Daugherty is a licensed social worker and Counseling Center Director Rita Lechleidner says she will help expand the services they offer. Daugherty has been a counselor for 20 years. Besides her counseling experience, she has acted as a facilitator of court ordered divorce education for divorcing parents. She has also worked at Catholic Charities as a pregnancy and adoption supervisor and general counselor. Daugherty is currently a clinical social worker with Cameron Home Care and Hospice and a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers. Lechleidner says the center's expanded services will include individual, couple and family counseling. Hospital officials say in many cases insurance can be billed to help cover the costs.

Patrol Plans Multi-Agency, Low-Manpower OVI Checkpoint in Bryan Tonight
Saturday, June 27th, 2009

(Bryan, OH) - The Ohio State Highway Patrol, in conjunction with the Williams County Sheriff’s Office, announced today that an OVI checkpoint will be conducted from 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. tonight, just south of the split between U.S. Route 127 and State Route 15. The location, near milepost 4, is at the north edge of the City of Bryan and Pulaski Township in Williams County, at 920 North Main Street. The OVI checkpoint, funded by fines from impaired drivers and other federal funding, is expected to deter and intercept impaired drivers. The checkpoint is in conjunction with nearby saturation patrols, which aggressively combat alcohol-related injury and fatal crashes. If you plan to consume alcohol, designate a driver or make other travel arrangements before you drink. Don’t let another life be lost for the senseless and selfish act of getting behind the wheel impaired.

Bryan Fireworks at Bryan Middle School/Bryan Recreation Park
Saturday, June 27th, 2009

(Bryan, OH) - The Bryan Fireworks will be on Saturday June 27th, starting around 10:00 p.m. The fireworks will be shot off behind the Bryan Middle School on Center Street. Please visit the Roll Call page at www.bryanpd.com for traffic flow patterns both before and after the fireworks.

Bark In The Park Set For Saturday
Friday, June 26, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Steuben County Humane Society will be hosting its third Annual Bark in the Park at Buck Lake Ranch on Saturday starting at 10:00am. All you need to get into the event is a dog or cat food item. Live music will be featured along with contests, photos, games and other activities. Costume prizes will be given to the most original, best homemade, funiest, best group and best owner/dog look alike. Prizes will also be given to the best kisser, smallest dog and largest dog. If you plan on going, you are being asked to bring a leash, a bowl for water along with blankets and lawn chairs to sit on. Last but not least, bring bags to clean up after the pets.

SCCF Board Names Skinner C.E.O.; Tubergen Board Chair; Approve Staff Cuts
Friday, June 26, 2009

(ANGOLA) - At the request of the Steuben County Community Foundation Board, Doctor Oren Skinner has agreed to continue on as the Foundation's Chief Executive Officer through June of 2011. It was announced in a news release issued by the Foundation on Thursday that the Board over the next two years will have a committee establish a succession plan for a change in leadership. Skinner was named interim C.E.O. a month ago when Sharon Stroh resigned. With a decrease of over $91,000 from last years budget. The board also decided on Thursday to cut 30% of its staff by not replacing the Development Officer and Youth Association positions. The budget decrease was blamed on the economic downturn and a reduction in overall revenue. Youth Program Associate Pam Harger will be returning to full time employment as a guideance counselor in the Hamilton School District. The remaining staff at the Community Foundation will have their duties restructured after a committee review. The Board also selected Kim Tubergen as it new Chair as outgoing Chair Ellen Bisson was honored for her two years of service. Christopher Wheeler was named Vice Chair, Dan Caruso will be the Treasurer while Melanie Harmon was selected as Secretary.

Kendallville Man Hurt In Accident
Friday, June 26, 2009

(KENDALLVILLE) - A Kendallville man was injured Thursday afternoon when he lost control of his car before it rolled over in a field along State Road 3 north of Kendallville. The Noble County Sheriff’s Department says 34-year-old Dennis Jue went off the right side of the highway south of County Road 1000 North. He apparently overcorrected and the vehicle left the road sideways, hit an embankment before rolling over into a corn field. Jue was airlifted from the scene by the Samaritan Helicopter and taken to Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne. His condition was unavailable this morning as a hospital spokesperson said he was not listed in their directory.

No Wake Orders Lifted On All Branch County Lakes
Friday, June 26, 2009

(COLDWATER) - Good news for boaters who have had to watch their speed on Branch County lakes over the last few days. Branch County Sheriff Warren Cannon says the slow no-wake orders issued earlier this week for the north and south chain of lakes in the county has been lifted as of noon Friday. The no wake orders were issued when lake levels rose following last weeks heavy rain. All boaters are being urged to be alert to high water and be considerate of property owners along the lake shores. Canon says marine patrols will be enforcing state laws this weekend for any negligent use of watercraft that results in a wake or swell causing damage.

Pokagon And Other State Parks Face Shut Down If Budget Deal Is Not Reached
Friday, June 26, 2009

(LAKE JAMES) - There is a strong possibility Pokagon State Park and other state parks around Indiana could close on Wednesday if state lawmakers can not come up with a budget deal by midnight Tuesday. That's when the old budget ends and the state technically runs out of money. If Pokagon closes just before the Fourth of July holiday, it would have a large impact on Steuben County's economy which highly depends on tourism dollars. Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels says he's prepared to keep essential and some social services running if there is no budget. Daniels says he would use emergency powers to ensure that state police and prisons continue to operate but much of the state government would shut down. That would include state parks, B.M.V. branches and even casinos which are regulated by the state. Thousands of state employees would also be furloughed. Questions to officials at Pokagon State Park were referred to the state D.N.R.. A spokesman in Indianapolis would only say they were waiting for further information from the governor's office. Both political parties have drawn their lines in the sand during the bitter budget negotiations. Since it started on June 11th, the General Assembly's special session has seen a lot of partisian bickering on the budget but as of yet, no deal.

FW Philharmonic Performs Next Wednesday At Pokagon
Friday, June 26, 2009

(LAKE JAMES) - The Fort Wayne Philharmonic will perform their annual Patriotic Pops Concert at Pokagon State Park next Wednesday night starting at 7:00pm. This year’s concert will be conducted by Bradley Thachuk. If you plan on attending, you are being encouraged to come early to secure a spot on the Potawatomi Inn lawn. Lawn chairs and blankets are welcome. A shuttle will run all evening from various parking lots throughout the park to the Potawatomi Inn. Limited parking for people with special needs is available near the inn. In case of inclement weather, the concert will be moved to the Angola High School Gym. Park entrance fees of $5 per vehicle for Indiana residents and $7 per vehicle for non-residents will apply.

ISP Warns Residents About Discarded Meth Materials
Friday, June 26, 2009

(UNDATED) - In what is really a sad commentary about the times we live in, Indiana State Police are warning people about the potential for coming in contact with materials left behind by those who make methamphetamine. Walkers, joggers and bikers should be cautious about the debris they encounter along roadways. Members of the Meth Suppression Section say one-and-a-half gallon gas cans are a popular choice among illegal drug makers. Other items to watch for are battery casings, ziploc bags, empty blister packs, and containers like pop bottles and jars that contain a granular material. They may or may not have a tube extending out the top, but either style is extremely hazardous. Cylinders found in odd places like the middle of a field, a ditch line or woods could be used to transport anhydrous ammonia, which is extremely dangerous when contacted or inhaled. You should never handle such items, but call local or state police about your discovery instead.

Huntertown Man Arrested In Child Molesting Case
Friday, June 26, 2009

(ALBION) - A Huntertown man has been arrested by the Noble County Sheriffs Department following an investigation into an alleged child molesting complaint. 65-year-old Cecil Paul Banks has been charged with a Class C felony of child molesting and was being held without bond pending an initial hearing. Chief Deputy Doug Harp stated in a press release that the alleged crime involving a child under the age of 14 took place at the Deer Lake Campground sometime between April of 2006 and December of 2007.

Sunrise Donuts Moving To Former Angola Hires Building
Thursday, June 25, 2009

(ANGOLA) - An empty building on North Wayne near Harcourt Road in Angola where cars used to be fixed will soon turn into a place where donuts are made. Angola Building Commissioner Dean Twitchell says Sunrise Donuts plan to move from their current location at 211 North Wayne to the empty 12,000 square foot building that used to be the site of Hires Auto Repair. Twitchell said the power was scheduled to be turned back on sometime on Thursday. The building, which was constructed in 1986, has been empty ever since Hires left Angola a couple of years ago. Sunrise Donuts plans to lease the building. Owner Manny Cheudhari is hoping they will be ready to operate out of the old Hires building sometime this winter. He figures it will take between five to six months to renovate the former auto parts and repair store. Plans call for the former Hires service bays to be used for Sunrise's delivery trucks. Sunrise Donuts is currently operating in Angola in the same building which houses the Family Video store.

Five-Year-Old Pulled From Nappanee Pool
Thursday, June 25, 2009

(NAPPANEE) - A five-year-old boy was pulled from a swimming pool operated by the city of Nappanee on Wednesday afternoon. According to Nappanee E.M.S. Director Jim Sumpter, a lifeguard at the Stauffer Park Pool saw the unconscious youngster lying face down in the water. She performed C.P.R. on the boy immediately after getting him out of the water. Sumpter says the boy began to start breathing on his own after about a minute. The youngster was first taken to Goshen General Hospital. He was later transferred to South Bend's Memorial Hospital. The boy's name and his condition are unknown.

Project Help Open House Set For Sunday
Thursday, June 25, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Project Help will host an open house this Sunday at their new building. It will take place from 1:00pm until 3:00pm at Project Help's new home which is at the corner of Williams and Harcourt, across from the Breeden Y.M.C.A.. Project Help Director Sherri Frank is asking for patience during the agency's transition from their former location. More information can be found at helpprojecthelp.org. The new 9,500 square foot building gives Project Help more room than its former location that they shared with the Turning Point Shelter. Project Help serves nearly 2,000 under-resourced families in Steuben County.

Animals Cause Brief Power Outage
Thursday, June 25, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Over 1,900 customers of Steuben County R.E.M.C. lost their power Wednesday morning for a short time when some animals got into utility equipment west of Angola. Liz Hufnagle from Steuben County R.E.M.C. says power was fully restored less than an hour after the outage was first reported at about 9:30am. The outage included the west side of Angola along with portions of Turkey and West Otter Lakes.

Reward Offered In Theft Of Mower And Trailer
Thursday, June 25, 2009

(LAOTTO) - A $1,000 reward is being offered after a mower and trailer belonging to the LaOtto Regional Sewer District were stolen this week. The district's Kathy Troyer says the items were stolen sometime Monday night or Tuesday. The trailer was recovered in Steuben County on Tuesday night but the mower which is described as tan or brown 2000 Grasshopper with a six foot deck and roll bar is still missing. The Noble and Steuben County Sheriffs Departments are investigating. If you have information, call 489-2810, 897-2570 or the Noble County Sheriffs Department at 636-2182. Your identity will remain confidential.

CCNO Inmates Will Pay For Stay
Thursday, June 25, 2009

(STRYKER, OHIO) – Inmates housed at the Corrections Center of Northwest Ohio will be required to pay for their stay, as well as pay an initial booking fee, following action taken during Wednesday’s meeting of the Corrections Commission of Northwest Ohio. Board members unanimously authorized the executive director to enter into a contract with Intellitech that will serve as the collection agency of a Pay-for-Stay program at C.C.N.O.. The per diem rate of $67.77 will be charged for each day that an offender is incarcerated. Also a $100 booking fee will be charged to each sentenced offender each time they are booked into C.C.N.O.. If an offender has been allowed to complete their sentence on weekends, each weekend the offender will be charged the $100 booking fee. Under the agreement, an Intellitech employee will be located at C.C.N.O. to operate the program. Costs will be $750 to $1,500 per month based on hours needed. This cost will be deducted from the gross monthly revenues generated prior to the percentage distribution to C.C.N.O..

No New Trial In Whiteman Case
Thursday, June 25, 2009

(CENTREVILLE, MICH.) – There will not be a new trial in the case of a former doctor. St. Joseph County Prosecutor John McDonough announced Wednesday that he will not seek a new trial for Terence Whiteman on charges of criminal sexual conduct and delivery of a controlled substance. Whiteman had been hired through an agency to work periodically in the Sturgis Hospital Emergency Room. He was convicted on multiple charges in May of 2008, but that conviction was overturned. Police started investigating Whiteman after some of his patients said he sexually assaulted them. Whiteman's conviction was overturned due to mistakes made by the judge, prosecutor, the defense attorney and the investigating officer, Luis Rosado. McDonough and Sturgis Director of Public Safety David Northrop say there is plenty of blame to go around in this case. Both agreed that they didn't want the victims to have to testify again.

No Wake Advisory Issued For Coldwater Lake
Wednesday, June 24, 2009

(COLDWATER) – The heavy rains from late last week is causing some high water issues in parts of Branch County. Branch County Sheriff Warren Canon along with the Branch County Drain Commission have added Coldwater Lake to the list of South Chain lakes in the county that are under a Slow-No Wake Zone declaration until further notice. The other Branch County lakes under the no wake declaration are First, Marble, Archer, Loon, Mud, Bartholomew and Long. Unhappy boaters have flooded the Sheriffs Department with complaints. Canon says water levels will be monitored on a daily basis and the no wake declaration will be lifted when the levels go down.

Partisian Bickering Continues Over State Budget
Wednesday, June 24, 2009

(INDIANAPOLIS) - The partisian bickering at the State Capitol continues over the state budget. 51st District State Representative Dick Dodge is joining fellow G.O.P. members in their praise of a two-year budget bill passed by the Republican-controlled State Senate yesterday. Dodge says it's a good plan that would not bankrupt the state or spend all of its reserves. He added there were no tax increases and it was a sensible solution in these hard economic times but Dodge is not happy that the final decision for this budget, if made, would take place at the last possible minute. Democratic House Speaker Pat Bauer of South Bend says the Republican budget coming out of the Senate would raise taxes and he feels it would put education and jobs in peril. Sticking points in the budget battle include how much the state should spend on public education. Republicans in the Senate want school spending increased by 0.5% in each of the next two years. House Democrats want a 2% increase over the next year. A new state budget has to be passed by June 30th when the old one expires.

Tibbits Cupola To Be Dedicated Thursday Night
Wednesday, June 24, 2009

(COLDWATER) - A special ceremony will take place Thursday night following the opening production of this years Tibbits Summer Theatre in Coldwater as the new cupola atop the Tibbits Opera House will be dedicated and lit. The ceremony is scheduled to start at 10:30 as the lights will be officially turned on and an American flag that once flew over Arlingtion National Cemetery will be raised 95 feet into the air to the top of the 126-year-old structure. The cupola is part of the third phase of the Tibbits restoration project. It included the re-pointing of the brick on the sides and back of the building. Fundraising to complete the restoration of the rest of the ornate Victorian façade is still ongoing. Part of the money for the project has come from a Federal Highway Administration grant. The cupola funding was made possible through private donations as well as a grant from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs. Funding for the re-pointing came from the F. Harold and Lillian Creal Endowment Fund through the Branch County Community Foundation.

Smith Issues Statement Following Wife's Death
Wednesday, June 24, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Professional golfer Chris Smith of Peru, Indiana has issued a statement following the Sunday morning crash on I-69 near the 200 North overpass in Steuben County which killed his wife and sent 14 others including the couple's two children to area hospitals. Smith says he and his family are in shock after the crash. He went on to say that "words cannot begin to express how difficult of a time this is for our family and we appreciate the generous outpouring of support that we have received." Beth Smith was killed when the S.U.V. she was a passenger in lost control, went across the median and struck a bus carrying members of a semi-pro football team back to London, Ontario after they had played in Indianapolis the night before. The S.U.V. burst into flames following the crash. 16-year-old Abigail Smith and her 12-year-old brother Cameron were listed in critical condition yesterday at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. Due to the HIPA privacy laws, no further information is being released about the conditions of the two youngsters.

Benefit Walk For Free Health Clinic Scheduled For Saturday
Wednesday, June 24, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A Benefit Walk to raise money for the Faith Community Free Health Clinic will be held this Saturday in Angola. Organizer Judy Rowe says participants can sign-in starting at 9:45 at the former Angola Christian Church on West Maumee. The walk will start at 10:30 on Saturday morning. Rowe says the money raised will help the clinic to further their volunteer work for uninsured Steuben County residents. Rowe says the project to benefit the Health Clinic was chosen by Steuben County participants at the Health Care Reform Kick Off on June 6th as part of a National Health Care Day of Service. The Benefit Walk in Angola is one of thousands of public service projects being conducted Saturday across the country. It's also one of forty projects taking place in Indiana communities. Rowe is the chair of the Steuben County Democratic Party but she emphasizes this is a non-partisian event. Forms can be obtained at the Breeden YMCA, the Steuben County Community Foundation and J. Rowe Signs in Angola. Pledge forms can also be found on line at steubendemocrats.org or serve.gov.

Local Girl Scout Troop Hosting Weekend Fundraising Events
Wednesday, June 24, 2009

(UNDATED) - Angola Girl Scout Troop 409 will be having a pair of fundraiser this weekend to help raise money for a week-long trip later this summer to Savannah, Georgia. The Fremont Moose Lodge will be serving Bar-B-Q chicken in downtown Fremont on Saturday morning starting at 9:00am. The Girl Scouts are also hosting a garage sale this Friday and Saturday a half mile north of the Fairview Missionary Church on State Road 827. Hours will be 8:00 until 4:00 on Friday and from 8:00 until 2:00 on Saturday. Troop 409 will be going to the birthplace of Girl Scout founder Juliet Gordon Low in Georgia on August 1st. They are looking to raise gas and lunch money for the 15 hour trip and have been working on the project for over two years.

Two Injured In Traffic Crash Near Kendallville
Wednesday, June 24, 2009

(KENDALLVILLE) - Two people were injured Wednesday afternoon when their car collided with another at the intersection of State Road Three and Waits Road near Kendallville. The Noble County Sheriffs Department reports a car driven by Renee Rogers failed to yield at the intersection and was struck by a car driven by John Shank of Kendallville. The impact caused Shank's car to go down a 15-foot enbankment. He along with a passenger, Margaretta Shank, were taken to Parkview-Noble Hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries. Rogers was not injured. Her age and hometown were not listed in the Noble County Sheriffs Department news release.

Angola B.Z.A. Approves Buffalo Wild Wings Sign Variances
Tuesday, June 23, 2009

(ANGOLA) - With the new Buffalo Wild Wings Restaurant set to open for business on Sunday, the Angola Board of Zoning Appeals approved a pair of sign variances on Monday night for the business which will be located at 202 East Harcourt. The first request approved was for an additional sign which would be facing the Aldi's Store. Regional Manager Brandon Jones said with the growing business the chain has enjoyed around the country, the additional sign would not come to Angola for at least three months. The second variance was for more square footage for the sign than permitted by city ordinance. Jones says the restaurant plans to employ 25 fulltime workers and 45 part-timers.

Identity Of Fatal Traffic Accident Victim Confirmed
Tuesday, June 23, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Steuben County Coroner Rodney Snyder has confirmed the person killed in Sunday's crash on I-69 near the 200 North overpass was 42-year-old Beth Smith, the wife of PGA Tour golfer Chris Smith. A positive identification was made through the use of dental records because of the intensity of the fire inside of the S.U.V.. The Steuben County Sheriff's Department says tire marks on the side of the road indicate the drivers side tires of the southbound S.U.V. were on the berm on the median side of the interstate when it veered out of the passing lane. The driver, who was identified as 16-year-old Abigail Smith, apparently overcorrected, went off the road and into the median. It then went into the northbound lane where the driver of a bus carrying members of a semi-pro football team from London, Ontario tried to avoid the S.U.V.. Sheriffs Department Sgt. Phillip Nott says in the news release that there is no information at this time as to why the vehicle was on the berm or why the driver swerved. Abigail Smith and her 12-year-old brother Cameron were both flown to Lutheran Hospital. Due to HIPA laws, an update on their conditions is unavailable as a hospital spokesman said yesterday they were not listed in their directory. The commissioner of the PGA Tour is expressing his condolences following Sunday's tragic accident. Tim Finchem says everyone's thoughts and prayers were with the Smith family.

No Additional Jail Time For Angola Woman In Stabbing Case
Tuesday, June 23, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A woman accused by Angola Police last July of stabbing her husband in an argument over cigarettes at the Washington Street Apartments will not have to spend any additional time in jail. 49-year-old Carolyn Danbury was given a three year sentence yesterday in Steuben Superior Court after she earlier pled guilty to a Class D felony of criminal recklessness. A Class C felony of battery with a deadly weapon was dismissed as part of her plea agreement with prosecutors. Judge William Fee suspended 18 months of the sentence. The balance of the sentence covered her time already spent in jail combined with good time credit. She was also placed on 18 months probation and Judge Fee ordered her to get a psychological evaluation. Danbury was earlier released on her recognizance. Angola Police Lt. Tim Crooks said at the time of the stabbing last July 22nd that alcohol appeared to be a factor in the incident.

Steuben County Home Sales And Prices Down In May
Tuesday, June 23, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Figures released by the Indiana Association of Realtors show Steuben County home sales were off 39% in May compared to a year ago. The Steuben County median sales price of $123,000 was also down 15% from May of 2008. As for neighboring counties, the number of homes sold in LaGrange County during May doubled from a year ago but the value went down. The median sales price of $131,000 was off nearly 23% from a year ago. Sales figures for Noble County showed a 36% decline in the number of sales, but the median price rose just over 6% to $82,750. DeKalb County sales in May were down nearly 36% from last year, and the median price was off 7.6% to $78,500. Karl Berron of the association says the statewide declines for May were smaller than the numbers posted in April. He recommended that buyers who are considering whether to purchase a home should get into the market sooner rather than later because interest rates have begun to tick upward from their historical lows.

Williams and Defiance Counties Have Ohio's Highest Unemployment Rates
Tuesday, June 23, 2009

(UNDATED) - Two counties in Ohio's northwest corner are leading the state in unemployment. Numbers released by the state on Tuesday show that Williams County had a jobless rate of 17.1% in May. Neighboring Defiance County followed, with unemployment of 16.1%. Fast-growing Delaware County north of Columbus had last month's lowest unemployment rate at 6.7%. Officials said last Friday that the state's unemployment rate rose to 10.8 percent in May, the highest since October 1983. Toledo had the highest rate among the state's largest cities last month, with unemployment of 14.3%. Cleveland Heights was at the other end of the scale at 7.2%.

Road Work Scheduled Near Hamilton and Nevada Mills
Tuesday, June 23, 2009

(UNDATED) - Summertime means a lot of construction work around the area. On Wednesday, the town of Hamilton will be replacing two culverts on County Road 300 East between 500 South and 600 South. Detour signs will be up. Hamilton Town Manager Milton Otero says the road will be closed for at least two days. In addition, the Steuben County Highway Department is continuing chip and seal. Crews were scheduled to start work in Nevada Mills on Tuesday afternoon and continue on 500 West to 650 North to 450 West and than continue North to the Michigan Line. Work will continue at 7:00am on Wednesday morning, weather permitting. Drivers are asked to avoid the area if possible.

Strawser Chosen In LaGrange County Council Caucus
Tuesday, June 23, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - LaGrange County Republican precinct committee persons chose a familiar face to fill an open at-large position on the County Council Monday night. Mike Strawser of Wolcottville prevailed on the second ballot during the caucus at Lakeland High School. Strawser picked up an 11-4 victory over Peter Cook of Wolcottville. Rob Elliot of LaGrange was eliminated from contention on the first ballot. Strawser served 12 years on the county council previously, and said the recent sale of his real estate business allowed him the opportunity to seek the office again. Among the issues facing the council, Strawser says he remains undecided about implementing a Local Option Income Tax until he sees what the state does with the 2009 budget. He says he would not support using Major Moves funds to reduce the bond for a new LaGrange County Library. The council seat became vacant when the caucus chose Larry Miller to fill the county commission seat left open by the death of Roger Boots.

FW Newspaper Says Wife Of PGA Golfer Killed, 14 Others Injured In Fiery I-69 Crash
Monday, June 22, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Fort Wayne News Sentinel says the wife of a professional golfer from Peru was killed and her two teenage children were severely injured in a firey crash late yesterday morning involving their S.U.V. and a Greyhound bus carrying members of a semi pro football team on I-69 near the 200 North overpass. Although no name of the fatal victim has been officially released by the Steuben County Sheriff's Department, the fatal victim has been identified by the newspaper as Beth Smith who is the wife of P.G.A. Tour player Chris Smith. The newspaper reports she was returning from a Father's Day visit with her family in Toledo. After initially being reported by the News-Sentinel that Beth Smith was the driver, the Steuben County Sheriffs Department now lists the driver of the S.U.V. in an updated news release as 16-year-old Abigail Smith. Abigail Smith and 12-year-old Cameron Smith were both flown to Lutheran Hospital. Due to the HIPA laws, a report on their conditions was not available this morning. Chris Smith lives in Peru and has been competing on the PGA Tour since 1991. Twelve people on the bus which was carrying members of the London Ontario Silverbacks football team were injured in the accident. They were taken to Cameron Hosptial for treatment. One of the passengers, Owner and Head Coach 36-year-old Curry-Alan Lazar, was later transferred to Parkview Hospital where he is listed in stable condition. The Steuben County Sheriffs Department has determined in their initial investigation that the S.U.V. lost control in the southbound passing lane at about 11:40am and overcorrected. It then crossed the median, entered the northbound lane, collided head on with the bus and burst into flames. Hagerty says a National Guard unit from Fort Wayne who were returning from weekend drills in Michigan just happened to be nearby on I-69 and assisted fire and rescue crews. There were plenty of other heroes in the chaotic moments after the crash. Players from the football team tried to help those in the S.U.V.. Members of the football team and others in their traveling group were taken to St. Anthony's Catholic Church on a couple of M.S.D. of Steuben County school buses where they waited for transportation to take them home. They were on their way back to Ontario after playing Saturday night in Indianapolis. Traffic on both sides of I-69 was shut down between Pokagon State Park and the Crooked Lake exit which led to bumper-to-bumper traffic in some areas of Angola.

Fremont Man Injured In Tractor Accident
Monday, June 22, 2009

(SNOW LAKE) - A Fremont man was injured last night when a large tractor he was using to cut grass near Snow Lake rolled down an embankment and landed on top of him. The Steuben County Sheriffs reports 55-year-old Terry Harmeyer was flown to Lutheran Hospital after he was freed. A hospital spokesperson says he is now listed in fair condition. Sheriffs Department Sgt. Todd Patterson reports in a news release that Steuben County Communications got several calls from people who heard somebody calling for help in the Harbor Cove area just north of State Road 120 and County Road 175 West. Officers followed the screams for help and eventually found Harmeyer pinned underneath the tractor. Family members indicate he went out to mow at about 6:00 last night. It's unknown how long he was trapped underneath the tractor. It took over an hour for rescue crews from the Angola and Fremont fire departments, Steuben County E.M.S. and members of Lutheran Air to free Harmeyer.

Four Injured In DeKalb County Motorcycle Wrecks
Monday, June 22, 2009

(DEKALB COUNTY) - DeKalb County Police investigated a pair of motorcycle accidents on Sunday. One involved a pair of Hamilton residents which took place yesterday morning at about 9:30am on County Road 4-A east of County Road 73. Police say 51-year-old Bruce Dirrim hit a cow as it crossed the road. Dirrim and a passenger, 49-year-old Brenda Patton, fell off the motorcycle and suffered abrasions. Dirrim also sustained a fractured collar bone. Both were taken to DeKalb Memorial for treatment. Another motorcycle accident took place last night on State Road 205 west of County Road 11 when 19-year-old Tylor Geiger of Churubusco apparently saw a deer in the road and applied his brakes. He and a passenger were ejected from the cycle as it slid and struck the deer. Both suffered abrasions in the accident which took place at about 11:00pm.

Cave In Closes Portion Of Old 27 In Branch County
Monday, June 22, 2009

(OVID TOWNSHIP) - A portion of Old 27 in Branch County's Ovid Township is closed until further notice after a portion of the shoulder caved in. The Branch County Sheriffs Department says Old 27 is shut down between Central and Lockwood Roads until repairs can be made by the Branch County Road Commission. Road Commission Manager Dick Losinski thinks leaking water from a rusted culvert that's at least 50 years old led to the cave in. He says it will take at least two to three days for repairs to be made.

Boys Rescued From Pool
Monday, June 22, 2009

(JIMMERSON LAKE) - A youngster was rescued from a swimming pool during a wedding reception on Saturday night at a home on Jimmerson Lake remains in critical condition today at Parkview Hospital. Eight-year-old Miguel Romero was rushed to Cameron Hospital before being flown to Parkview. Rescue crews were dispatched to the home at about 7:00pm. The D.N.R.'s John Deem says wedding guests performed C.P.R. on the boy before rescue crews arrived.

Caswell Announces Run For Michigan Senate
Monday, June 22, 2009

(HILLSDALE) – A familiar name is back in the political arena. Bruce Caswell officially announced Monday morning his candidacy for the 16th Michigan Senate District, which covers St. Joseph, Branch, Hillsdale and Lenawee Counties. With current 16th District Senator Cameron Brown not able to run for the position again due to term limits, Caswell says Michigan needs experienced leadership to help create new jobs, ensure responsible spending of tax dollars and to empower individuals and families. Caswell represented Branch and Hillsdale Counties in the Michigan House of Representatives from 2003 to 2008. Prior to that he taught high school and coached for 25 years and also was superintendent for Pittsford Area Schools. Over the past two months, Caswell says he’s been canvassing parts of the 16th District. He says he’s humbled by the early outpouring of support for his campaign and looks forward to bringing his message to the people of the 16th District.

Four Taken Into Custody Following Edgerton Meth Investigation
Sunday, June 21, 2009

(EDGERTON, OHIO) - Four people were arrested in Williams County, Ohio following a drug investigation at a home on County Road 6 near Edgerton. Through the investigation by the Multi Area Narcotics Task Force of a residence owned by Daniel Goebel at 02750 CR 6, Edgerton, Ohio, a search warrant was issued. Arrested and charged were Goebel and 21-year-old Joseph Goebel after police say items for the manufacture of meth were found. Police also took 31-year-old Stephen J. England and 29-year-old Angel M. England of Litchfield, Michigan into custody for theft. Police say the investigation took place after they had gotten information about alleged drug activity at the home. Further charges of illegal manufacturing of illegal drugs are pending on several subjects from Indiana and Michigan. The MAN Task Force is comprised of officers from the city of Bryan and Defiance, as well as officers from Williams County, Putnam County, and Defiance County Sheriff’s Departments.

Pleasant Lake Man Dies In Possible Miserva Lake Drowning
Saturday, June 20, 2009

(PLEASANT LAKE) - The Indiana D.N.R. is investigating what is being called the possible drowning of a Pleasant Lake man that took place Friday evening in Miserva Lake. 38-year-old John Gephart was pronounced dead after he was pulled from 12 to 14 feet of water by a Pleasant Lake firefighter. Indiana Conservation Officer Rodney Clear says rescue crews were dispatched to a private beach just after 6:30. Clear reports Gephart was swimming with his two children near the northwest corner of the lake when for some unknown reason he began to have difficulty and went under the surface of the water. Pleasant Lake Firefighter Jon Geraghty was the first responder on the scene and swam with a small rowboat alongside for about 40 yards to the last known location Gephart was seen. Geraghty dove under the water, recovered Gephart, and swam him back to shore to an awaiting ambulance just before 7:00pm. Gephart was pronounced dead about 20 minutes later. Numerous Police and Fire agencies responded to the scene including Indiana Conservation Officer John Deem, the Steuben County Sheriff’s Department along with police from Hamilton, Angola and Ashley and firefighters from Angola, Fremont and Pleasant Lake. Steuben County E.M.S., the Parkview Samaritan Helicopter and Steuben County Coroner Rodney Snyder also responded to the scene. An autopsy will be conducted to confirm the cause of death.

Ohio Company Plans Fremont Expansion
Friday, June 19, 2009

(FREMONT) - An Ohio manufacturer of sheet metal enclosures and components has announced they plan to open a new manufacturing center in Fremont. According to a news release issued by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, officials for Koester Metals say the new facility will create up to 60 new jobs by 2012. It will be located in an existing 130,000 square-foot facility formerly occupied by Rittal Incorporated. Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels visited with company officials on Wednesday while he was in Steuben County. The company is based in Defiance, Ohio where it currently has over 30 associates at its headquarters. The press release went on to say they plan to start hiring workers later this summer for the Fremont facility. The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Koester Metals up to $185,000 in performance-based tax credits and up to $25,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. The town of Fremont will consider additional property tax abatement at the request of the Steuben County Economic Development Corporation.

Lightning Blamed For Fireworks Storage Building Fire
Friday, June 19, 2009

(LAKE GEORGE) - It was an early Fourth of July on Friday morning when a lightning strike caused a fire to break out in a fireworks storage building owned by Shelton Fireworks at 7055 North Old 27 near Lake George. Some of the fireworks were going off inside of the burning building when Fremont firefighters arrived at about 6:00am. Since firefighters had to stay on the outside and not enter the building, it took about 90 minutes to get the flames under control. Fremont Fire Department Public Information Officer Brett Steele says heavy smoke and fire was coming from the structure when crews got to the scene. Firework embers were shot about 100 feet from the structure and were able to reach the road and parked semis from neighboring truck stops. No evacuations were ordered. Angola Fire Department Public Information Officer T.R. Hagerty says over 1,000 cases of fireworks were stored inside. While some of the fireworks went off there were no major explosions and no injuries have been reported. Along with manpower, numerous tankers were called in. All of the Steuben County fire departments were called to the scene along with crews from DeKalb County, Michigan and Ohio. Crews were on the scene until about 10:15am. Damage was estimated at $50,000.

Steuben County May Unemployment Climbs To 15.7%
Friday, June 19, 2009

(UNDATED) - If May's preliminary unemployment figures released Friday by Indiana Workforce Development are any indication, northeast Indiana is still in the recession's tight grip. Steuben County's unemployment rate for May was 15.7% which is an increase from April's revised rate of 15%. Figures showed Steuben County's labor force is about the same but about 100 more eligible workers wound up in the unemployment line last month. Steuben County's unemployment rate was the eighth highest in Indiana and was far above the state unemployment rate of 10.4%. Jobless numbers went up in Noble and DeKalb Counties but dropped in LaGrange County. Noble County had the third highest unemployment in Indiana at 17.3% with LaGrange County right behind at 16.6%. DeKalb County had the 12th highest rate at 14%. The highest unemployment rate in Indiana during May was in Howard County at 19.3%, the lowest was in Daviess County at 5.5%. Indiana Workforce Development Commissioner Teresa Voors said as expected, the Hoosier State's employment picture in May was affected by extended furloughs and layoffs in the U.S. auto industry. She added Indiana may see the ripple effect over the next few months as suppliers, dealerships and other service providers adjust to the new business models of the domestic auto companies.

INDOT Announces Mill Street Closings For Next Week
Friday, June 19, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Portions of Mill Street near North Wayne will be closed next week during daytime hours as construction work continues in that area. INDOT says paving work is scheduled to start on Tuesday, weather permitting, and continue through next Friday. Phase One of the project will then be complete and traffic will be shifted 12 feet to the west on North Wayne. Concrete curb, gutter and storm sewer installation will begin on the east side during Phase Two in late June. Work is scheduled to be finished by late August. The project includes new traffic signals and storms sewers at the intersection of North Wayne and Mill.

Severe Weather Hits Area
Friday, June 19, 2009

(UNDATED) - Many people got an early wake up call on Friday as pre-dawn severe storms rumbled through the area. Severe thunderstorm warnings were issued thanks to heavy rain, strong winds and frequent lightning. Wind damage was reported throughout Noble County. Scattered power outages were also reported by Steuben County Communications. Heavy rains in northwest Ohio forced the National Weather Service to issue a flash flood warning as nearly two inches of rain was measured. High water was reported at various locations in Williams County including State Road 576 west of Bryan, U.S. 127 between Bryan and West Unity and State Road 34 east of Stryker. The city of Angola officially had 1.23 inches of rain for the 24-hour period ending at 7:00am this morning with most of the rain falling after 4:00am.

Angola And Branch County Chamber Plan Joint After Business Hours Event
Friday, June 19, 2009

(COLDWATER) - The Angola Area Chamber of Commerce and the Branch County Area Chamber of Commerce will host a combined After Business Hours next Thursday night from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at the Tibbits Opera House in Coldwater. The event is being held in conjunction with the opening night of this year's Tibbits Summer Theatre which will begin with the musical "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes". The combined chamber event open to both members and non-members. Due to the special nature of this After Business Hours, there will be a $5 entry fee for Chamber members and a $10 fee for non-members. Appetizers and a cash bar will be available. All attendees will receive a $5 discount on tickets for the show that night. Please RSVP to TIBBITS at 517-278-6029.

Over 400 Marijuana Plants Found On Jackson Township Farm
Thursday, June 18, 2009

(JACKSON TOWNSHIP) - After getting a tip from an area farmer, the Steuben County Sheriffs Department and members of the I.M.A.G.E Drug Task Force removed over 400 marijuana plants on Wednesday that were believed to have been put into a field near State Road 327 and 300 North during the last three to five days. All of the plants were about 15 inches tall and they had a street value of about $280,000. The farmer found the pot while spraying nitrogen on a corn field. Tim Troyer from the Sheriffs Department says in a news release that the marijuana was planted in the corn rows every 60 to 70 feet apart. He says the plants were spaced out in every 40th corn row and were within range of the field's irrigation system. The cornfield measures over 100 acres. Troyer went on to say the plants were previously grown in small pots with potting soil and fertilizer and were consistent with being grown indoors before being transferred to the outdoors. No arrests have been made.

Anderson Memorial Fishing Tournament Starts Friday
Thursday, June 18, 20009

(NORTH WEBSTER LAKE) - The fourth annual Terry Anderson Iron Man Memorial Fishing Tournament will be held tomorrow and Saturday at North Webster Lake. The 23-hour tournament starts at 5:00 Friday afternoon and is open to the public. The tournament is being hosted by the Webster Lake Musky Club. For more information on the tournament, call Chae Dolson at 260-385-0623 or e-mail him at chae@maplenet.net. The tournament honors Terry Anderson who was an avid fisherman musky guide. He along with his wife Darleen were found murdered at their home near Mongo in October of 2005. Their murders remain unsolved.

Woman Charged With Bouncing Checks At Orland Store
Thursday, June 18, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A woman who allegedly wrote three bad checks totaling over $1,200 to a store in Orland was formally charged Wednesday in front of Steuben County Magistrate Randy Coffey. 42-year-old Leah Marie Venner; whose address was listed as Tekonsha, Michigan; was charged with three Class D felonies of check fraud. Steuben County authorities claim in court documents that the checks were written between April 14th and 20th after her checking account in Michigan was closed. She was booked at the Steuben County Jail yesterday after a warrant was issued for her arrest on June 1st. Her bond was set at $30,000 during yesterdays initial hearing and not guilty pleas were entered on Venner's behalf. The case will go through Steuben Superior Court where a pre trial conference was scheduled for July 27th.

Angola Man Charged With Two Class A Child Molesting Counts
Thursday, June 18, 2009

(ANGOLA) - An Angola man was formally charged by Steuben County Prosecutors on Thursday afternoon with two Class A felony counts of Child Molesting following an investigation by the Angola Police Department and Indiana State Police. 32-year-old Melvin Arthur John Andrews was charged in connection with alleged incidents between September 1st of last year and this past Wednesday. Prosecutors claim in court documents the alleged victim is a 13-year-old girl. Bond during Thursday's initial hearing was set at $200,000. Magistrate Randy Coffey told Andrews that if should post bond he was not to be around anyone under the age of 16 unless there was an adult present. No contact orders were also issued should bond be posted and not guilty pleas were entered on behalf of Andrews. The case will go through Steuben Circuit Court where a pre-trial conference was scheduled for August 17th.

Angola And Coldwater Chambers Plan Joint After Business Hours
Thursday, June 18, 2009

(COLDWATER) - The Angola Area and Branch Area Chamber of Commerces will host a combined After Business Hours next Thursday night from 6:00pm to 8:00pm at the Tibbits Opera House in Coldwater. The event is being held in conjunction with the opening night of this year's Tibbits Summer Theatre which will begin with the musical "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes". The combined chamber event open to both members and non-members. Due to the special nature of this After Business Hours, there will be a $5 entry fee for Chamber members and a $10 fee for non-members. Appetizers and a cash bar will be available. All attendees will receive a $5 discount on tickets for the show that night. Please RSVP to the Tibbits Opera House at 517-278-6029.

SCLC Even Start Program May Return
Thursday, June 18, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A Steuben County Literacy Coaliation program that went away a few years ago due to cuts in federal funding could be making a partial comeback. M.S.D. of Steuben County Curriculum Director Cyndi Nausbaum told the district school board on Tuesday night that certain pockets of money are now available for the Even Start Family Literacy program. She got the board's permission to seek a competitive grant. The goals would be to prepare young children for school success and to prepare their parents for success in the work place. The program would target undereducated and underserved families with children between the ages of three and five.

LaGrange County Library Remonstrance Rejected
Thursday, June 18, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - The LaGrange County Library Board on Wednesday rejected an effort to invoke a petition and remonstrance process against the proposed new library in LaGrange. A resolution approved by the library board says a portion of the 134 signatures collected are invalid because of irregularities in the way they were verified under oath by the persons who carried the petitions. The board claims one section of the remonstrance petition contains an additional signature and signature page that were added in violation of the instructions that govern the gathering process. It said that additional signature was added a day after the carrier of that petition verified the petition. The board also ruled another section of remonstrance signatures contained other inconsistencies regarding the dates of persons signing it. With those two groups of signatures removed, the petition request contained 92 valid signatures, eight fewer than the 100 signatures of property owners or voters required to trigger the remonstrance process. The library board said it will proceed with the issuance of bonds to finance the construction, which is capped at just over $9.4 million. The architectural committee will meet next Wednesday at 5:30pm in the community room at the library to look for ways to reduce the project’s cost.

Daniels Spends An Hour Talking With Hoosier Boys State Delegates
Wednesday June 17, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels seemed to feel right at home as he paid a visit Wednesday afternoon to Hoosier Boys State on the Trine University campus. The governor spent the majority of his time taking questions from the delegates as they gathered inside of Hershey Hall. He said young people like those in the gymnasium will be left with a financial burden from past spending practices. He also said there will be many future challenges from international competition that have not been seen before. The governor was a delegate to Hoosier Boys State over 40 years ago when he was a teenager and he told several stories from his experience. He remembered how two rooms had to share one phone on a lazy susan. Daniels appearance came just hours after Seth Brown of Hammond was elected as the governor of Hoosier Boys State. Earlier in the day, Daniels visited Chain 'O Lakes State Park in Albion to talk to members of the Young Hoosiers Conservation Corps. Young people between 16 and 24 are being employed at Indiana parks this summer thanks to federal stimulus money.

Goodwin Announces Retirement As M.S.D. Of Steuben County Superintendent
Wednesday, June 17, 2009

(ANGOLA) - M.S.D. of Steuben County Superintendent Doctor David Goodwinn announced Tuesday night he will retire at the end of the 2009-2010 school year, thus ending a 40 year career in education. Goodwin's recommendation that Doctor Brent Wilson take over as the district's Superintendent on July 1st, 2010 was approved by the M.S.D. of Steuben County School Board. Wilson will serve as Associate Superintendent during the upcoming school year. He has been the district's Assistant Superintendent for the past three years. Goodwin has been the Superintendent since 2001. His retirement is part of a transitional time in the district as Carlin Park Elementary and Angola Middle School will have new principals for the upcoming school year following the retirements of John Maurer and Bill Church.

PHSB Approve Agreements With Superintendents
Wednesday, June 17, 2009

(BRUSHY PRAIRIE) - Two agreements were signed at the beginning of Tuesday night's Prairie Heights School Board meeting: one a retirement and the other a superintendent agreement. Dr. Paul Thomas has now officially ended his time as Superintendent and Alan Middleton has taken on the title. Middleton has been working in the Prairie Heights administrative offices since being hired by the board in April. Board President Mark Thrasher welcomed Middleton to the position. Thomas was unable to attend last night's meeting as he was attending a conference. In other matters, the resignations of High School Principal Pat McLaughlin as well as Athletic Director Todd Mason were approved. McLaughlin has taken a job as principal at Marion Eastbrook High School while Mason has accepted a wrestling coaches position at Leo High School. Penny Wilhelm and Sue Brayton also both resigned as the Senior Class Sponsors.

Water Tower Meeting Held
Wednesday, June 17, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A pre-construction meeting was held yesterday at Angola City Hall to go over plans for a new water tower west of the city. The 250,000 gallon water tank will be the fourth one to service Angola and it will be built southeast of the I-69/U.S. 20 interchange on land which has been deeded to the city by J.K.L. Holdings. If everything goes as planned, the water tower is expected to be ready to provide service in about a year. City officials hope it will lead to future development.

FHS Athletics Accepting Donations for Garage Sale
Wednesday June 17, 2009

(FREMONT) - The Fremont High School Athletic Department is accepting donations for its first ever "garage sale" which will be held at the school during Music Fest on July 11th and 12th. Organizers hope to sell old Fremont items such as uniforms, hats and t-shirts along with items that would be donated. Items can be dropped off at Fremont High School between 8:00am and 3:00pm daily. All money raised will go to the Fremont High School athletic programs. If you have any questions, call Fremont Athletic Director Roger Probst at 495-1241.

Gas Prices Drop Over The Last Week
Wednesday, June 17, 2009

(UNDATED) - Gas prices have been dropping in recent days. Several stations around Angola were selling gas for $2.66 a gallon this morning which is a drop of almost 20 cents since back-to-back price spikes a couple of weeks ago. The web site indianagasprices.com reports the average price of gas in the state was $2.69 which is a ten cent drop in the last week. The lowest price was $2.49 in Seymour, the highest was $2.99 in Cloverdale. But when compared to a month ago, the average price of gas in Indiana has gone up by 31 cents.

CAFO Video Seminar Set For Thursday
Tuesday, June 16, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Steuben County Plan Commission and the Steuben County Purdue Extension Office will host a Video Seminar on Thursday night on how confined animal feeding operations affect communities. The two hour session will focus on a study conducted over the last couple of years of 50 swine and dairy CAFO's in eight counties. The video seminar starts at 7:00pm in the Purdue Extension conference room in the basement of the Steuben County Community Center. The session is free and open to the public but space maybe limited. If you have any questions or if want to reserve a spot, call 668-1000 extension 1400 or 1600.

Singer Leaving Cameron For New Job
Tuesday, June 16, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Cameron Hospital Director of Community Relations Kirk Singer has submitted his resignation after being with the hospital for 20 years. Singer is leaving after accepting a Director of Marketing position with Dosher Memorial Hospital in Southport, North Carolina. His last day with Cameron will be Saturday, July 4th. Singer joined Cameron Hospital in 1989 to direct the hospital’s marketing and public relations efforts as well as to serve as the executive director of the Cameron Hospital Foundation. The hospital has grown over the last two decades and has established a number of new facilities and services such as the Regional Cancer Care Center, Cameron Woods and Cameron Sleep Center. The Cameron Hospital Foundation assets has grown under Singer's leadership to about $2 million. Singer has also been involved in numerous non-profit organizations in Steuben County. He says it’s been a very rewarding experience marketing Cameron and its services to the community and that it's been a privilege to be a part of this community.

No Change In M.S.D. Of Steuben County Food Service Prices
Tuesday, June 16, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Breakfast and lunch prices in the M.S.D. of Steuben County will remain the same for the 2009-2010 school year. Food Service Director Stephanie Haynes-Clifford told the M.S.D. of Steuben County School Board last night says they have seen their biggest increase in breakfast participation. She says they were averaged 128 daily breakfasts at the high school level this past year compared to about 30 when she first came to the district six years ago. She also said the summer food service program which began last week is averaging about 50 people per day. Lunch is being served at no charge to any child between the ages of one and 18 from 11:15am until 12:00noon at Carlin Park Elementary every weekday until August 12th. In other business, the board approved Middle School and High School handbooks. The Middle School handbook expands the ban on cell phones to include other electronic devices. A revised 2009-2010 school calendar which has no half days for staff development as per the wishes of State Superintendent Tony Bennett was also approved.

Alleged Orland Bank Robber Enters Into Plea Bargain
Tuesday, June 16, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A man charged with robbing the Farmers State Bank in Orland last September pled guilty on Monday in Steuben Superior Court to a Class B felony of Armed Robbery. 21-year-old Saul Barrera entered into a plea bargain agreement with prosecutors during a final pre-trial conference. He was scheduled to go on trial next Thursday. In exchange for his guilty plea, prosecutors will dismiss two other cases against Barrera if Judge William Fee accepts the plea agreement which he took under advisement pending a July 13th sentencing hearing. Barrera was charged by authorities with using a gun to take an undisclosed amount of money from the bank last September 29th. He was captured minutes after the hold up thanks to the combined efforts of the Orland Fire and Police Departments and the Steuben County Sheriffs Department.

City Council Approves Mayor's Proposed 2010 Wages
Tuesday, June 16, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Angola City Council approved a recommendation from Mayor Dick Hickman on Monday night that salaries and wages for city employees be increased by only one percent in 2010. Under the mayor's proposal, employees would have to pay an additional $5 per pay period for their health insurance. Hickman said he felt the city workers deserved more of a raise but the one percent increase was about as far as the city could go since the 2010 budget was looking at a $500,000 cut. Council member Gary Crum felt there should be no increases given the belt tightening at the state and county level but fellow Council Member Dave Martin pointed out the numbers are not locked in yet since more information is needed from the state. In other business, the Council approved three rezoning requests on first reading which cover nearly 60 acres land near Center Lake for a proposed development that would include a retirement community and single family housing. The rezoning was recommended for approval last week by the Angola Plan Commission.

Fremont School Board Approves Hiring Of New Coaches
Tuesday, June 16, 2009

(FREMONT) - Varsity Boys Basketball and Girls Volleyball coaches were hired on Monday night by the Fremont School Board. Ted Bookwalter will take over the boys basketball program after serving as a volunteer assistant while Stacy Grimm will be the girls volleyball coach at Fremont High School. The board also approved the high school athletic handbook. Athletic Director Roger Probst said it clarifies a couple of vague areas including the eligibility of athletes who are suspended from school. The 2009-2010 calendar which contains no half days for professional development was also approved. In addition, cyber bullying policy that mainly covers threatening text messages was approved.

TU To Offer Virtual Campus
Tuesday, June 16, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Officials at Trine University have announced that the university will begin offering a virtual campus in the near future. According to a news release issued by the university, Trine will use multiple technologies to make some of its graduate and undergraduate education programs available anytime, anywhere through the World Wide Web. The T.V.C. is designed to attract students from around the world and provide convenience for local students with job and athletic commitments. Plans call for a new student and faculty T.V.C. Web site to be launched within the next few months. The virtual campus will also offer over 50 new graduate and undergraduate courses.

Daniels To Visit Hoosier Boys State At TU
Tuesday, June 16, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels is scheduled to be in Angola Wednesday afternoon where he will participate in the swearing-in ceremony for the new leadership of the Hoosier Boys State program at Trine University. The ceremony is scheduled to start at 4:00. Nearly 600 delegates will vote for Hoosier Boys State Governor on Wednesday after primary elections were held on Tuesday. Daniels is among those who have taken part in the American Legion program since it began in 1937. This is the first year Hoosier Boys State is being held at Trine after it was hosted by Indiana State University in Terre Haute for almost four decades. Before his visit to Angola, Daniels is also scheduled to make a stop at Chain 'O Lakes State Park in Albion where he will receive an update on the progress of the Young Hoosiers Conservation Corps during a brown bag lunch with program participants.

Commissioners Open Park Project Proposals, Get Update On Watershed Grant
Tuesday, June 16, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Requests for qualifications for a county park improvement project were opened Monday morning by Steuben County Commissioners. After nearly a dozen firms from throughout Indiana submitted their proposals, Commission Chair Mayo Sanders said they would be taken under advisement. In other business, County Commissioners agreed to get an appraisal on the Clear Lake park property. They are looking to sell the land to the town of Clear Lake and then using the money to purchase land for a new 4-H Fairgrounds next to the current location. The Commissioners were also told that a grant application for Phase Two of the Pigeon Creek Watershed Plan is moving forward. Kayleen Hart from the Steuben County Soil and Water Conservation District said she found out last Friday that the money has trickled down from the E.P.A. to the Indiana Department of Enviromental Management. The $243,000 grant will allow for an education specialist to work out of the County Health Department which is one of four partners in the grant program. Health Department Cheif Sanitarian Tom Friend said the program will promote water quality and will not be a financial burden on the county. Part of the grant would also be used for rain gardens as part of Angola's downtown renovation project.

Former Cashier Given Six MonthSentence In Theft Case
Tuesday, June 16, 2009

(ANGOLA) - One of five people arrested last December in the alleged theft of between $5,000 and $10,000 worth of items from a local department store was sentenced on Monday in Steuben Circuit Court. 21-year-old Jamie Nall of Pleasant Lake was given an 18 month sentence after she pled guilty to a Class D felony of theft. Prosecutors dismissed six other theft charges in exchange for her guilty plea. One year of the sentence was suspended and Nall was also placed on probation for 12 months. She was also ordered to pay over $2,100 in restitution to her former place of employment. The arrests were made following an Indiana State Police investigation. Nall was a cashier at the store and State Police say the items were either not scanned or a lesser amount was charged.

No Cooperation Means No Enforcement Of LaGrange County Nuisance Ordinance
Tuesday, June 16, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - LaGrange County won’t enforce the county’s nuisance ordinance against the owner of a pie piece sliver of land at Lake Of The Woods because the complainant won’t cooperate in the clean up. Zoning Enforcement Officer Carol Marbach told the county commissioners Monday that the property owner wants to clean up the land but can’t. Marbach said the land owner and the complaining adjacent property owners are sisters who apparently have a history of threats and harassment complaints. The property owner on the other side is refusing access for the clean up also. Commissioner George Bachman told Marbach he wants uniform enforcement, but that isn’t possible in this case. The commissioners voted unanimously to not enforce the nuisance ordinance at that site if the adjacent owners continue to be uncooperative.

Two Administrative Resignations On Tuesday PHSB Agenda
Monday, June 15, 2009

(BRUSHY PRAIRIE) - The Prairie Heights School Board will be asked to approve a pair of administrative resignations on Tuesday night. On the agenda are resignations for High School Principal Pat McLaughlin and Athletic Director Todd Mason. Although incoming Superintendent Alan Middleton does not officially take over until July 1st, he will oversee tomorrow nights meeting as current Superintendent Paul Thomas will not be able to attend due to a scheduling conflict.

Area Designated At Fairgrounds For Possible Animal Rights Protest
Monday, June 15, 2009

(ANGOLA) - In anticipation of animal rights protesters possibly showing up at this years Steuben County 4-H Fair, Steuben County Commissioners approved a request from 4-H Youth Educator Neasa Kalme on Monday to cordon off an area where protests could be held. Kalme wanted to put them near the west end of the truck tractor pull area of the fairgrounds. Besides concerns about public safety, Kalme told Commissioners they wanted to be proactive about a possible situation after getting word from Farm Bureau representatives about other protests around the country. Since the fairgrounds is considered public property, County Attorney Don Stuckey said a protest area can be designated. The Steuben County 4-H Fair will be celebrating its 75th anniversary when it begins on July 17th.

Plea Bargains Entered In Drug Cases
Monday, June 15, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A pair of Steuben Superior Court drug cases will not go to trial next week. 20-year-old Kristina Marie Kimpel of Angola pled guilty on Monday to a Class B felony of Dealing In A Controlled Substance. In exchange for her guilty plea prosecutors will drop two methamphetamine dealing charges that were filed last December. Kimpel was arrested following a four month I.M.A.G.E. Drug Task Force undercover investigation. Meanwhile, 32-year-old Brenda Marie Padgett pled guilty on Monday to a Class D felony of possession of an unlawful drug. In turn, prosecutors will drop a Dealing in Meth charge and another case if the plea agreement is accepted. Judge William Fee took boths plea agreements under advisement and scheduled sentencing hearings in both cases for July 13th. Both Kimpel and Padgett were scheduled to go on trial next Thursday.

Corunna Man Sentenced In Sex Case
Monday, June 15, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A Corunna man was given a five year sentence on Monday in Steuben Superior Court after pleading guilty last month to a Class C felony of sexual misconduct with a minor. 20-year-old Colton Lee Mason entered into a plea bargain with prosecutors on May 18th. In exchange for his guilty plea, the state dropped a Class B felony count for child molesting. Three years of the sentence was suspended and Mason was placed on three years of probation. He will not have to spend any additional time behind bars as he was given credit for two years in time already served and for good behavior. Mason was charged in February 2008 for an incident that Steuben County authorities say involved a 13-year-old girl.

Fire at Metaldyne Called Accidential
Monday, June 15, 2009

(FREMONT) - A fire which broke out at Metaldyne in Fremont early on Sunday morning has been called accidential in nature by investigators. Fremont Fire Chief Eric Hufnagle says the blaze broke out at about 6:00am and caused nearly $250,000 worth of damage. Nearly a half dozen fire departments were called in to battle the flames. No injuries were reported. Flames were coming from the roof in the back of the building where Fremont firefighters arrived. The fire was not called under control until about 7:20am. While the fire was contained to the back, there was smoke and water damage throughout the structure. It's believed the fire started on a couple of transformers outside the building before it spread through a vent to the roof. Fremont firefighters got mutual aide from the Angola, Orland, Montgomery and Hamilton fire departments. A ladder truck from Bronson was called in to help battle the fire. Pleasant Lake firefighters covered the Angola station while a crew from Salem Center stood by at the Fremont station. Crews cleared the scene at about 9:45am.

LaGrange County Commissioners Pass Sign Ordinance
Monday, June 15, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - The LaGrange County Commissioners voted 2-to-1 on Monday in favor of an amended sign ordinance for the county. The changes to the ordinance relaxed some of the restrictions relating to the number of certain types of signs a property can display, the square footage size caps, and the height of some signs. Commissioner George Bachman said further changes may be needed in the future. County Attorney Kurt Bachman said other changes are expected in the way county officials apply the ordinance. Commission President Phil Curtis voted against the amended ordinance, which goes back to the plan commission tomorrow night. If it agrees with the changes, the ordinance takes effect almost immediately. If the plan commission doesn’t concur, it has up to 45 days to take action or it becomes law without its concurrence.

FSB Contributes to Parkview LaGrange Foundation
Monday, June 15, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - Farmers State Bank President Joe Pierce presented a check for $2,500 to the Parkview LaGrange Foundation on Monday. The contribution was part of a 1 for 2 matching challenge made by the bank to assist in the launch of the foundation. Jen Will, coordinator of the Parkview LaGrange Foundation, said the money will be used to develop health care programs and services for those who live and work in LaGrange County and the surrounding area. The foundation supports improvements to the hospital’s services, facilities, equipment and programs.

Hoosier Boys State Starts Saturday At Trine University
Saturday, June 13, 2009

(ANGOLA) - After being held at Indiana State University in Terre Haute for almost four decades, Hoosier Boys State moves to the Trine University campus in Angola beginning this weekend. Nearly 600 high school students from all over Indiana will spend one week learning about the workings of politics and government at local and state levels. They will chose precinct committee members, write platforms, pass caucus rules and eventually select a Hoosier Boys State Governor on Wednesday. The schedule includes a welcoming speech from Trine University President Doctor Earl Brooks II on Monday morning. The delegates will also meet with Angola and Steuben County officials on Thursday afternoon. Officials say the week's activities will center around various locations on the Trine campus including Whitney Commons and Hershey Hall. For more on Hoosier Boys State, you can log onto their web site at hoosierboysstate.org.

Panther Golfers Heading To State Finals!!!
Saturday, June 13, 2009

(FORT WAYNE) - The Prairie Heights Panthers are heading to the I.H.S.A.A. Boys Golf State Finals. The Panthers advanced by finishing second on Friday at the Fort Wayne regional tournament at Orchard Ridge Country Club. The top three teams head to the state finals which will be held next Tuesday and Wednesday at the Legends in Franklin. Homestead won the regional title with a team score of 310. Prairie Heights was second at 319 followed by Warsaw at 320. Sectional champion Northridge was fourth at 322. Lakeland was sixth while DeKalb was 11th. Casey Anderson led the Panthers with a 78 while Mike Reynolds fired a 79. Meanwhile, Seth Robertson of Fremont saw his fine season come to an end as he competed as an individual and fired a 78. Lakeland's Cole Pechin advanced to the state finals as an individual after he fired a 76.

Foley Trial Scheduled To Start August 18th
Friday, June 12, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A Branch County Circuit Court trial date has been scheduled for a man who is charged with shooting his wife to death at their Girard Township home on February 7th. Thomas Foley's murder trial is scheduled to start on August 18th. The Coldwater Daily Reporter says Prosecutor Terri Norris has requested a two week trial in order to present her evidence. Foley is being held without bond in the Branch County Jail. He claims he is innocent in the killing of his wife Dee Dee.

Bryan Goodwill Store Moving To Former K-Mart Location
Friday, June 12, 2009

(BRYAN, OHIO) - A lease has been signed which will allow Bryan's Goodwill Store to move to a new location. After much speculation, the announcement is official, as the new location will occupy more than 16,700 square feet of the former K-mart site on South Main Street. Projected to open in late this summer or early in the year, the new store will feature over 11,000 square feet of floor space which will be an increase from their former store on West High Street. The new location will also have easier access from the road, more parking and a well-marked donor area. New store features will include a larger selection of goods, wider aisles and a training room where Goodwill’s programs can be offered to the Bryan community. Goodwill’s current Outlet Store on South Main Street, in the Bryan Wal-Mart Plaza, will continue to be open for shopping and donations until the new store opens in a few months. Goodwill making the vacant K-mart building their home is good economic news for the community as well as other business located in that shopping plaza.

Bryan Escapee Captured
Friday, June 12, 2009

(BRYAN, OHIO) – A man who escaped from police custody on May 31st was captured on Friday at a home in Toledo. The Ohio State Highway Patrol, Toledo Police Department, Lucas County Sheriffs Department and Toledo FBI Office arrested Lucas P. Manley who escaped from an Ohio State Trooper after his arrest for OVI and stolen license plates in the city of Bryan. The suspect escaped from the marked patrol cruiser, still handcuffed, while the trooper completed an administrative inventory of his vehicle. A search of the area by local agencies was unsuccessful. After following several leads investigators were led to a residence on Western Avenue in Toledo, Ohio where Manley was arrested with the assistance of the police department, sheriffs department and the FBI on Felony Warrants for escape and receiving stolen property. Manley was also charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated, driving under suspension, marked lanes, fictitious plates and no seatbelt. Charges of theft and criminal damaging related to the handcuffs he escaped in are also pending. Manley was transported to the Lucas County jail pending his return to Williams County.

Bond Revoked For Former DeKalb HS Coach
Friday, June 12, 2009

(AUBURN) - Bond for a former DeKalb High School coach and teacher was revoked Thursday after he was arrested for violating a no contact order. 56-year-old Steven Harp was apprehended after the DeKalb County Sheriffs Department say he was with the alleged victim in a child seduction case in which he has been charged with a Class D felony. Steuben County Circuit Court Judge Allen Wheat is presiding as the special judge in the case. Harp's trial on the child seduction charge is scheduled to start September 9th. Harp was originally arrested in March on the child seduction charge after he retired from the school district in January.

Fire Causes Heavy Damage To House West Of Airport
Friday, June 12, 2009

(JACKSON TOWNSHIP) - A two story home just west of the Steuben County Tri-State Airport sustained heavy damage in a Thursday afternoon fire. The blaze at 5860 West Old U.S. 20 was reported just after 1:30pm. Heavy smoke could be seen from as far away as U.S. 20 and I-69. Angola Fire Department Public Information Officer T.R. Hagerty says crews encountered heavy fire and had to get out of the house at one point due to concerns about the roof collapsing. The northeast part of the structure collapsed but firefighters were eventually able to go back inside. The blaze was called under control at about 2:45pm. A total of 13 fire departments responded to the scene. Tankers had to pump water from nearby Bass Lake. Hagerty says no one was home at the time the fire broke out and there were no injuries. The dollar amount on the damage and the cause of the fire are not known yet. Crews cleared the scene at about 6:00pm.

Hamilton Man Charged With Four Sex Crimes
Friday, June 12, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A Hamilton man was formally charged with four Class C felony counts of sexual misconduct with a minor Thursday afternoon in front of Magistrate Randy Coffey. 41-year-old Edward Joseph Martin was booked at the Steuben County Jail on Wednesday after a warrant for his arrest was issued on May 28th. The investigation by the Steuban County Sheriffs Department took place after the Department of Child Services received information from the alleged victim in the case who is identified in court documents as a 14 or 15 year old male. Court documents also allege the incidents which led to the charges took place between April of 2007 and last November. A not guilty plea was entered on Martin's behalf during Thursday's initial hearing. Martin is free after posting 10 percent of a $40,000 bond. Coffey ordered Martin not to have any contact with the alleged victim. Martin's case will go through Steuben Circuit Court where a pre-trial conference was scheduled for August 10th.

Meth Lab Suspect Charged With Dealing
Friday, June 12, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A suspect arrested after what was described as a meth lab was discovered in woods near the Sunnyfield Addition on Angola's northeast side was formally charged with a Class A felony on Thursday for Dealing In Methamphetamine. Bond for 22-year-old Josh Hunt was set at $100,000 and a pre-trial conference in Steuben Superior Court was scheduled for July 27th. A jury trial was docketed for October 1st and a not guilty plea was entered on his behalf. Angola Police say the non-active alleged meth lab was discovered by an employee of the Northeastern Center owned residential treatment facility on Beckland Drive. Hunt is facing a Class A felony because prosecutors say it was found within 1,000 feet of the Breeden Y.M.C.A. and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints where youth activities are held. According to court documents, Hunt is accused of manufacturing meth between May 22nd and this past Wednesday by using what was described as a "one pot method." Hunt was a resident at the treatment facility. He was one of several residents who were interviewed by police. One was arrested on a Class C misdemeanor for sale of ephedrine.

SLRWD And Bledsoe's Dispute Heading To Mediation
Friday, June 12, 2009

(FLINT) - A legal dispute between the Steuben Lakes Regional Waste District and Bledsoe's Incorporated could be coming to an end. The District Board of Trustees approved a request from Superintendent Tim Frederick Thursday night to have their executive committee pursue a mediation settlement on Monday afternoon. The dispute centered around an ordinance passed by the district over seven years ago which defines properties. The Indiana Court of Appeals partially affirmed a ruling by Steuben Circuit Court Judge Allen Wheat in March that mobile homes on the Bledsoe's property can be considered residential dwellings under terms of the 2002 ordinance. Final details of a settlement to be worked out. The Bledsoes case is one of several litigation matters currently involving the district. At the request of trustee George Pifer, the board spent nearly 45 minutes Thursday night discussing ways to possibly avoid future litigation. Better educating the public about district matters was one item that was discussed. In addition, the board approved an extension agreement on the Orland Sewer Project which had already been passed two weeks ago by the Orland Town Council.

LaGrange County Annual Meeting On Saturday
Friday, June 12, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - The LaGrange County REMC holds its annual meeting for members on Saturday at the corner of U.S. 20 and County Road 200 East. Registration begins at 10:30 a.m. The co-op’s business meeting is at noon. In addition to lunch, there will be bucket truck rides, a police K-9 demonstration, blood pressure checks, cancer screening health education by Parkview-LaGrange Hospital, and the LaGrange Fire Department’s fire safety house.

Foul Play Ruled Out In Woodshop Fire
Friday, June 12, 2009

(TOPEKA) - The cause of a fire that destroyed a wood working shop near Topeka on Wednesday evening is undetermined, but foul play is not suspected. The shop at 5211 West County Road 1100 North was owned by Merlin Miller and sustained around $40,000 in damage. Johnson Township and Ligonier firefighters assisted Topeka firefighters at the scene.

LaGrange County Relay For Life Is This Weekend
Friday, June 12, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - This weekend’s Relay For Life at Lakeland High School includes a special cancer research study. The CPS-3 study will track lifestyle and environmental factors to help determine how to prevent cancer. Persons ages 30-65 who have never had cancer are asked to enroll in the study this weekend, and will receive follow up questionnaires over the next 20 to 30 years. Getting started in the study involves having a small amount of blood drawn, having your waist measured, and filling out a questionnaire. Opening ceremonies are tomorrow at 9:00am.

Bison Ranch Holds Annual Celebration
Friday, June 12, 2009

(WOLCOTTVILLE) - A local bison ranch holds its annual Calf Days Celebration on Saturday. Cook’s Bison Ranch, just east of Adams Lake on LaGrange County Road 600 South puts on the event to raise awareness of the buffalo as a healthy food source and the cultural significance of the American bison throughout history. The Cook family ranch has grown from 30 head on 83 acres to 300 head on 900 acres. The event includes wagon ride tours of the ranch, a buffalo hair spinning demonstration, buffalo jerky made over an open fire, and other food made from buffalo meat. There’s also a petting zoo for children. Donations go to support the Apostolic Temple Church youth group. Calf Day hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Krzeminski Bond Revoked
Thursday, June 11, 2009

(ANGOLA) - An Angola man had his bond revoked Wednesday morning after Steuben County authorities claimed he violated terms of posting the bond by consuming alcohol last Friday. 50-year-old Terry Krzeminski is facing four charges including three Class D felony counts in connection with a four-hour armed standoff with police at his home on East Gale on Friday night and early Saturday morning. Prosecutors requested during an initial hearing on Monday that the defendant's bond be revoked in connection with terms of a seperate 2007 case for O.W.I.-resisting law enforcement. But Krzeminski argued he had not consumed alcohol and was not offered any type of alcohol test by police after his arrest. Magistrate Randy Coffey sided with the prosecution at the end of Wednesday's 45-minute bond revocation hearing. In addition to the four charges filed by prosecutors on Monday, Krzeminski is facing habitual offender sentence enhancements. A pre-trial conference has been scheduled for July 31st.

Two Arrested After Meth Lab Is Found On Angola's Northeast Side
Thursday, June 11, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Police arrested two Angola men on Wednesday after what was described as an old methamphetamine lab was discovered by a Northeastern Center group home worker in some woods near the Sunnyfield Addition on Angola's northeast side. Angola Police Detective Tim Crooks says the meth lab was found near the 1400 block of Beckland Drive. Booked at the Steuben County Jail on a Class A felony of Aiding In Manufacturing Methamphetamine was 22-year-old Josh Hunt. Crooks says Hunt was out on bond from Noble County in another meth manufacturing case. Meanwhile, 45-year-old Greg Hale was booked on a Class C misdemeanor for sale of ephedrine. An Indiana State Police meth suppression team and members of the Steuben County Sheriffs Department were called in to break down the lab. Angola Police are still investigating the case.

Summer Of 2009 A Bummer So Far
Thursday, June 11, 2009

(UNDATED) - Along with high unemployment and rising gas prices, it's not exactly beach weather around these parts. More drab, wet weather is on tap for Thursday. There have been three days so far this month in which the high has failed to hit 70 degrees. Normally, highs should be the upper 70's this time of year. The warmest day so far this month has been this past Monday when it got up to 80 degrees. The coldest morning was last Friday when the temperature dipped to 43 degrees. It looks like this unseasonably cool weather is not going away anytime soon. The extended forecast shows highs will not get into the 80's until maybe the middle of next week.

Four Area Students To Be Honored In Deuter Essay Contest
Thursday, June 11, 2009

(FORT WAYNE) - Four elementary students from the area will be honored Friday afternoon at the Statehouse. Andrea Ledgerwood of Prairie Heights Middle School, Brandon Rios of Kendallville South Side Elementary, Hannah McElroy of Angola’s Hendry Park Elementary, and Jesus Guerrero of Waterloo Elementary were county winners in the Dave Deuter Memorial Essay Contest. U.S. Savings Bonds, engraved plaques, certificates signed by the governor will be presented to the winners. Ledgerwood placed fourth among 89 county winners. The students wrote essays on the subject “What Being A Good Citizen Means To Me.” Master Trooper Dave Deuter was killed when a semi struck him during a traffic stop on the Indiana Toll Road near Greenfield Mills in LaGrange County in 1998. Those participating in the ceremony Friday include First Lady Cheri Daniels, State Police Superintendent Dr. Paul Whitesell, Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Tony Bennett and officials from the Indiana Trooper’s Association.

Zimmer Picked As A ND Leprechaun
Thursday, June 11, 2009

(ANGOLA) - An Angola High School graduate has been chosen as one of the leprechauns who will be leading the cheers for the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame this fall. David Zimmer got the job after a lengthy tryout process. While the top leprechaun's job will be handled by another student for big ticket events like football and men's basketball, Zimmer will be dressed as the Irish mascot at many other sporting events such as men's and women's soccer, women's basketball, softball and baseball. Zimmer graduated from Angola High School in 2007. He said he got fitted for his outfit before he left school for the summer. To get the job as the top leprechaun, Zimmer will have to go through another tryout process.

Over 400 Cited Or Warned During Recent Traffic Blitz
Thursday, June 11, 2009

(UNDATED) - A recent "Click It Or Ticket" enforcement effort by police from around Steuben County resulted in 166 citations being issued to unrestrained motorists. Police worked 115 hours of overtime on 31 patrols between May 15th and 31st. Of those cited, 83 were for seat belt violations while 54 were ticketed for speeding. There were also four motorists caught driving while under the influence. Police also issued 288 warnings for such items as speed, faulty equipment and license violations.

Hundreds Expected For Cancer Prevention Study
Thursday, June 11, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - Over 400 northeast Indiana residents are expected to take part in a cancer prevention study which will be held Saturday during the LaGrange County Relay For Life fundraising event at Lakeland High School. The study will take place between 10:00am and 3:00pm. Organizers say the research will help in determining the factors that cause or prevent cancer.

Stinnett Memorial Ride Scheduled
Thursday, June 11, 2009

(KENDALLVILLE) - Outrage over the rape and fatal beating of a 2-year-old girl by an 18-year-old babysitter last November has prompted a motorcycle group to launch a series of nationwide memorial rides. The BON group is using the ride this weekend to raise awareness and money to fight child abuse according to Holly Jefferson of Kendallville. The Katelynn Stinnett Memorial Ride starts Friday night with a comedy show at Sarge’s Mongo Tavern then shifts to Paul’s Pub in downtown Kendallville on Saturday morning for a ride-in cycle show. Jefferson says you don’t have to have a motorcycle to participate in the events. The ride will end Saturday back in Mongo with at least five country, rock and blues bands performing.

Lakeland Makes Plans To Become New Tech School
Thursday, June 11, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - The Lakeland School Board next week will consider a recommendation from administrators and staff to begin the planning to restructure Lakeland High School into a New Tech school. Superintendent Risa Herber told members of the LaGrange County Chamber of Commerce on Thursday that a total of 27 Lakeland staffers attended three New Tech schools in Indiana and two in California. The Lakeland superintendent told Chamber members the New Tech model is more than using technology. She said the skills 21st Century students need to compete include learning & innovation skills, life & career skills, and information & technology skills.

One Dead, Three Injured In Waterloo Accident
Wednesday, June 10, 2009

(WATERLOO) - A Butler man has died from injuries he suffered last night in a traffic accident on U.S. 6 just east of the main stop light in Waterloo. 78-year-old Dorman Davis passed away after he was flown to Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. Waterloo Police say his 71-year-old wife Beverly was driving east on U.S. 6 at about 6:30 when for some unknown reason she failed to negotiate a curve and her car crashed into a stone wall. She was pinned in the vehicle and had to be freed by rescue crews. Beverly Davis was also flown to Lutheran Hospital where she is listed in critical condition. Police say the Davis' suffered internal injuries. Two children in the car suffered cuts and contusions and were treated at DeKalb Memorial Hospital.

County Council Recommends Loan For Salem Center Fire Station
Wednesday, June 10, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Steuben County Council agreed on Tuesday to recommend to County Commissioners that the County take out a $200,000 loan to help the Salem Center Fire Department pay off the mortgage on their fire station and Community Center. Fire Department Board Chair Carl Rupp said it would be paid back over 20 years. The department had originally requested a zero-interest loan in April from the county's Major Moves money. But the Department of Local Government Finance said the county would have to buy the building and lease it back to the fire department. That did not sit well with county officials. After some discussion, the Council felt the land around the fire station should be used as collateral. The fire department got behind the financial eight ball when a Fund Indiana grant for the building was cut by the state.

Fremont Town Council Considers Volunteer Program
Wednesday, June 10, 2009

(FREMONT) - The Fremont Town Council heard a presentation last night from a representative of the Community Work Experience Project which is a state volunteer program designed to help people who have lost their jobs. John Cover from the Department of Family Services says volunteers who are seeking financial assistance can do community service work for any organization. He says the program has been successfull in other communities and that the town would not have to worry about workmans compensation. A proposed agreement was taken under advisement by the Town Council. In other business, the Council rescheduled next months meeting to July 14th in order to accomodate the budget process since the state has moved the timeline up this year.

Summer Food Program Begins Today
Wednesday, June 10, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The M.S.D. of Steuben County Food Service will begin a summer food service program today which will run every weekday until August 12th. Lunch will be served at no charge to any child between the ages of one and 18 from 11:15am until 12:00noon on the southwest side of Carlin Park Elementary School. Meals have to be eaten on site. In case of rain, meals will be served in the Carlin Park Elementary dining room.

Gil Pleads Guilty To Two Charges, Could Get 60 Years In Prison
Wednesday, June 10, 2009

(ANGOLA) - An Angola man accused of setting a car on fire with a 13-year-old girl inside of it last December 11th pled guilty Tuesday morning to a Class A felony of Arson Resulting in Bodily Injury and for being an habitual offender. 40-year-old Joe Gil Junior entered into a plea bargain agreement during a hearing in Steuben Superior Court which could result in a 60 year prison sentence. In exchange for his guilty pleas, prosecutors will dismiss Class A felony charges of attempted murder and child molesting if Judge William Fee accepts the plea agreement during a June 29th sentencing hearing. Gil will be held without bond until that time. According to court documents, terms of the plea agreement call for consecutive prison sentences of 30 years on the two charges Gil is pleading guilty to. Gil was scheduled to go on trial August 27th. A motion filed last Friday seeking an psychological evaluation to determine if Gil was competent to stand trial was withdrawn during Tuesday's hearing. The Steuben County Sheriffs Department says Gil apparently tried to committ suicide last February while he was an inmate at the jail when he cut himself in the throat with a razor. Gil recovered and was later transferred to the State Department of Corrections where they have better ways of watching over him. Gil was arrested shortly after the car fire took place outside of his residence in a trailer park at Randolph and Victoria. A female could be heard screaming and moaning as firefighters arrived on the scene at about 1:40 on the morning of December 11th. Besides the teenage girl, a 39-year-old woman was also burned in the incident.

Community Harvest Requests Assistance For Area Hungry
Wednesday, June 10, 2009

(FORT WAYNE) - Northeast Indiana’s largest food bank is urging farmers and gardeners to set aside a portion of their harvest to help feed the region’s hungry residents. During a news conference Tuesday, the Community Harvest Food Bank encouraged growers to plan for a surplus harvest which they can donate to the food bank during the economic downturn. Jane Avery of Community Harvest says anyone who has a bushel of green beans, a box of green peppers, or a bag of cucumbers can share them with the area’s needy residents. They are also appealing to those who purchase livestock during area 4-H Fairs to donate them via participating butchers.

Farmer's Market Suggested In LaGrange County
Wednesday, June 10, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - One way that the unemployed - especially the Amish - are trying to cope during tough times is by raising and selling produce. LaGrange County Extension Ag Agent Steve Engleking says giving them an outlet for their produce by creating a mid-week farmer’s market could be a boost. He is suggesting possibly holding the mid week market at the old jail property in LaGrange. Engleking says the county needs to find ways like this to help boost entrepreneurs. Anyone interested in exploring the possibility of establishing a new midweek market should contact the Purdue Extension Office at 260-499-6334 by Friday, June 19. You will be asked for contact information and a preference of a Tuesday, Wednesday, and/or Thursday late afternoon/early evening farmers market. If there is enough interest in starting a new midweek market, the Extension office will set up a meeting for potential vendors.

Fair To Help LaGrange County Unemployed
Wednesday, June 10, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - Two local organizations hoping to loosen the grip of hard times on LaGrange County have organized what they call the Here To Help Fair next week at Lakeland Middle School. The LaGrange County Chamber of Commerce and the LaGrange County Economic Development Corporation have gathered together many different resources, according to Chamber Executive Director Beth Sherman. She says the organizations attending will offer help on everything from applying for unemployment to starting up a home business. Social services, education and governmental organizations along with representatives of the armed forces will all be on hand to offer help. The Here To Help Fair runs from 8:00am to 4:00pm on Wednesday, June 17th at Lakeland Middle School.

Prosecutors Formally Charge Krzeminski Following Standoff
Tuesday, June 9, 2009

(ANGOLA) - An Angola man was charged with three Class D felonies and a Class A misdemeanor in front of Steuben County Magistrate Randy Coffey Monday afternoon following a four-hour armed standoff with police which ended early Saturday morning. 50-year-old Terry Krzeminski is facing two counts of intimidation as well as charges of strangulation and domestic battery. Prosecutors are also seeking an habitual offender sentencing enhancement after court records indicate Krzeminski was convicted of felonious assault in 1986 in Monroe County, Michigan and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in 1995. Bond on the latest case filed against Krzeminski was set at $40,000. A pre-trial conference was scheduled for July 31st and a jury trial was set for October 1st. Not guilty pleas were also entered on behalf of the defendant. Prosecutors tried to revoke Krzeminski's bond from a 2007 case for O.W.I.-resisting law enforcement when a condition of posting bond was he could not consume alcohol. But the defendant told Coffey he had not consumed alcohol Friday night nor was he offered any type of alcohol test by police after he was arrested. Coffey said he did not see clear and convincing proof the defendant violated his bond condition in the document provided by prosecutors so he scheduled a hearing on the requested bond revocation for Wednesday morning.

DeKalb County Shooting Suspect Charged With Attempted Murder
Tuesday, June 9, 2009

(AUBURN) - A suspect charged with shooting another man over the weekend in what Indiana State Police say was a dispute over money appeared for his initial hearing this morning in DeKalb County Superior Court Number Two. 49-year-old Richard Leins of Corunna is charged with a Class A felony of attempted murder. He was ordered held without bond pending his next court appearance on August 10th and a not guilty plea was entered on his behalf. Leins was arrested without incident at his home Monday night in connection with the weekend shooting of 51-year-old Larry D. Daley at a campground near Corunna. State Police say the two men argued before the shooting. It's alleged that Leins shot Daley multiple times early Sunday morning with a .22 caliber semi-automatic rifle. Daley underwent surgery on Monday at Parkview Hospital.

Man Arrested In LaGrange For Allegedly Horse Whipping Kids
Tuesday, June 9, 2009

(MIDDLEBURY) - A LaGrange County man was arrested Monday evening and charged with battery after he allegedly horse whipped his son and daughter. The LaGrange County Sheriff’s Department arrested 60-year-old Willis Miller of rural Middlebury after observing the alleged whip markings on the neck of Daniel Miller. The younger Miller and his sister say their father struck them both with the whip during a disagreement between father and son.

WalMart Shoplifter Caught
Tuesday, June 9, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Police had to chase down a shoplifter from the Angola WalMart store during a foot pursuit Tuesday afternoon. The suspect was placed into custody just after 2:30. Further information was unavailable from Angola Police.

Angola Plan Commission Approves Rezoning For Proposed Center Lake Development
Tuesday, June 9, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Angola Plan Commission gave favorable recommendations to the City Council on Monday night for the rezoning of nearly 61 acres of land near County Road 100 North and Center Lake for a proposed non-government subsidized housing development. Developer J.R. Parent wants to use about 46 acres of land for single-family residential homes, the rest would be housing for retirees. He said they have been looking to build in Angola for five years. Several concerns were raised about the high water table of the land but board Chuck Sheets gave Parent a strong vote of confidence saying he was capable of getting the project done properly and that he should be given a chance. The land would be re-zoned from agricultural to multiple and single family residential pending final action by the Angola City Council. The Plan Commission also approved a primary plat for a new O'Reilly's Auto Parts Store which would be located on lots in the 500 blocks of North Martha and North Wayne.

Gould's Contract Not Extended Past 2011 By Hamilton School Board
Tuesday, June 9, 2009

(HAMILTON) - The Hamilton School Board voted 3-2 Monday night not to extend Superintendent Mark Gould's contract past June of 2011. The vote came after the board met with Gould in an executive session on May 19th. Board President Scott Lucas said the action was not a reflection on Gould's performance. He pointed out that under Indiana law, all school superintendent's contract last for a minimum of three years. Under Gould's supplemental contract, if a vote is not taken by the June board meeting it automatically is extended by one year. Lucas said it was the best interest of the board not to be locked into a three-year contract with all of the budget changes at the state level and declining enrollment in the district. Gould has been the Hamilton School Superintendent for six years. In other business, Elementary School Principal Kimberly Fifer reported that she received a letter from State Superintendent Tony Bennett that Hamilton Elementary was one of only 24 Title One schools in the state to meet A.Y.P. standards for two straight years.

Branch County Power Outage Apparently Caused By Storms
Tuesday, June 9, 2009

(UNDATED) - The storms that rolled through Branch and Hillsdale Counties last night have apparently caused nearly 3,000 Consumers Energy customers to lose their power. The outages cover the Bronson, Colon and Sherwood areas. A spokesperson for Consumers Energy says they hope to get the power back on by mid-day. The storms led to one inch hail falling west of Quincy. Hillsdale County was placed under a Tornado Warning but outside of a tree being knocked down on State Route 49 south of Allen, no serious damage was reported.

County B.Z.A. Denies Variance On Controversial Lake George House
Tuesday, June 9, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Steuben County Board of Zoning Appeals voted Monday night to deny a post construction variance request on a Lake George house which has generated some angry feelings between neighbors. Fremont Vocational Building Trades petitioned for the variance on the Lane 130-A home because it had a height greater than what is permitted in Steuben County Zoning Ordinances. The ordinance calls for two-story homes without basements to be no more than 27 feet high. But the home that has been built is nearly seven feet taller than the allowed limit. Both sides of the controversy presented lengthy and detailed arguments as the hearing lasted for almost 90 minutes. Drainage and gade elevation have been the main concerns raised by neighbors. County officials got a scolding from a couple of audience members. Gary Zandstra lives nearby and he feels the Carrolls have been victimized. Adjoining property owner Jim Getts blasted the county for what he thought was a lack of response to his concerns on at least eight occasions. The vote to deny the variance was 4-0 with Board Chair John DeMarco abstaining.

Pleasant Lake Man Sentenced On Meth Charge
Monday, June 8, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A fixed term plea agreement was accepted Monday by Steuben Circuit Court Judge Allen Wheat in the case of a Pleasant Lake man who was arrested last October for manufacturing methamphetamine. 32-year-old Monte Deller pled guilty to the Class B felony on March 30th. Deller was given a ten-year sentence as part of the plea agreement. Six years of the sentence was suspended and he was placed on probation for four years. Deller was arrested after Steuben County deputies went to a home on County Road 275 East along with Indiana Conservation Officer following a complaint about illegal hunting. While looking for poaching evidence, police say they found items associated with making meth in a barn as well as what was described as an active meth lab in the house.

DeKalb County Shooting Victim Scheduled For Surgery
Monday, June 8, 2009

(CORUNNA) - A weekend shooting victim is scheduled to undergo surgery at Parkview Hospital today after was shot at least six times over the weekend at a campground near Corunna. 51-year-old Larry Daley was found shot by police and rescue crews after they were dispatched to the 500 block of County Road 20 at around 1:30 Sunday morning. Indiana State Police say Daley was shot by someone he knows. He was airlifted from the scene to Parkview. No arrests have been made. State Police Detective Mark Heffelfinger indicated investigators have multiple stories as to what happened and they trying to verify those stories.

Another Branch County Illegal Burn Reported
Monday, June 8, 2009

(BRONSON) – For the second time in a week, fire officials say there’s been an illegal fire in Branch County. Bronson Fire Chief Brent Wilber says his department was called to the corner of Deer Park Road and U.S. 12 just before 7 P.M. Saturday. When they arrived, fire crews found a fire containing illegal matter such as shingles from a house, plastics and other building materials. Wilber says they were able to discover the new owners of the property were tearing down an old abandoned house and starting burning the illegal material, which is against Michigan law. The Branch County Sheriff’s Department is trying to locate the owners since no one was at the scene of the fire. Wilber says they will try to issue an illegal burn ticket with a request for restitutions for the cost of materials and time to extinguish the fire. Last Wednesday a house at 626 Babcock Road was burned down by owner LeRoy Myers so that the land could be cleared. However Michigan State law prohibits the burning of any structure, even by the owner.

APD Release More Information On Friday Night Armed Standoff
Monday, June 8, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Angola Police have released further details of Friday night's armed standoff which forced Cameron Hospital to be locked down. Police say they were called to 312 East Gale at about 9:00 regarding a domestic dispute. They found that a woman had been injured and that a suspect identified as 50-year-old Terry Krezminski had left in a vehicle. While the woman was being attended by officers, the suspect returned home and began threatening police. Officers then determined the suspect was armed with a handgun and was threatening to use the weapon. Krezminski went into the home and police say he continued to threaten them. A perimeter was set up and the Northeast Indiana Special Response Team was called in for assistance. During negotiations with Krezminski, police say he threatened to blow his house up with gas. They also say he continued to threaten officers and displayed a handgun. Cameron Hospital was locked down and the emergency room was moved to another location within the hospital. Police say Krezminski eventually came out of the home and began threatening them with a knife. Negotiations ended at that point and police were able to take Krezminski into custody using what they called less than lethal force and several distraction devices. Krezminski was booked at the Steuben County Jail on a preliminary charge of felony battery. Police say more charges are expected to be filed. As of late this morning, Steuben County Prosecutors were still reviewing police reports and a case file has not been put together yet. Angola Police were assisted by the Northeast Indiana Special Response Team, Indiana State Police, the Steuben County Sheriffs Department, Hamilton Police, Steuben County E.M.S., the Angola Fire Department and Cameron Hospital.

47 Steuben County Businesses Honored by E.D.C.
Monday, June 8, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Steuben County Economic Development Corporation honored 47 businesses during their fifth annual Excellence in Business Awards Monday morning at Trine University's Whitmer Clubhouse. The businesses are recognized for investing in Steuben County over the last year. E.D.C. Executive Director Gary Nielander says those on hand represented just under $53 million in investment during 2008. He said that was impressive given the economic downtown and that the amount of investments is almost the same as 2007.

Businesses honored by the E.D.C. were---

Steuben County--
Jimmy's on James
Timbuctoo
Dry Dock Marine
Caruso's

Angola--
Farmers and Merchants Bank
Taco Bell
Little Caesar's
Maxton Motors
Allied Manufacturing
JK Investments
Gasdorf Family Chiropractic
Vestil Manufacturing
Steuben County Community Foundation
Peter Franklin Jewelry
Leupp Building Services
Cocoa Moon Latin Deli
Indiana Real Estate
Kohl's Department Store
Pro-Fed Credit Union
Univertical
Steffy Wood Products
The Vault
General Products

Hamilton--
Myers Hog Hill
Hamilton Lumber Company
Hamilton House Restaurant

Fremont--
Rickles Pickles
Dollar General Store
Yours and Mine Consignments
Mobile Cellutions
Wenzel Metal Spinning
New Horizons Baking Company
LaGrange Products
Fremont Trading Post

Ashley--
The Lunch Bucket
Carper Propane
K-Tech Speciality Coatings
MTR Machine
TI Automotive

Eight special awards were presented to the City of Angola as well as the towns of Hamilton, Fremont and Orland for downtown improvement projects. Also getting special awards were Trine University along with the towns of Ashley, Clear Lake and Hudson.

Five People Injured In DeKalb Wreck
Monday, June 8, 2009

(DEKALB COUNTY) - Five people including two children were injured this morning in a firey crash on I-69 south of Auburn. DeKalb County Police say the accident happened at about 2:40am when a pickup truck driven by 34-year-old Anthony Brown of Westland, Michigan went off the interstate and down an embankment before it struck a culvert. Everybody inside of the vehicle managed to get out before it burst into flames and was fully engulfed. All five occupants were taken to Parkview Hospital for treatment of their injuries. An eight-year-old boy suffered internal head injuries while one of the adult passengers suffered a fractured neck. The crash shut down the interstate until about 4:00am this morning.

Angola Armed Standoff Ends As SRT Takes Man Into Custody
Saturday, June 6, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A tense armed standoff which apparently started as a violent domestic dispute ended early Saturday morning at a house near Euclid and Gale when police stormed a house and arrested a man inside. The quiet and stillness of the early morning were shattered when Angola Police say a Steuben County Special Response Team entered the home after apparently using what are known as "flash bangs" at about 1:15am and placed the suspect into custody. The device that ended the standoff is commonly used by SWAT teams. According to an answer page on Yahoo.com, flash bangs are non-lethal but anyone exposed is blinded and becomes disoriented which allows police to enter a home or room. The incident was first reported just after 9:00 on Friday night. A woman suffered unknown injuries during the domestic dispute but managed to get out of the house. Angola City Police, the Steuben County Sheriffs Department and Indiana State Police were called to the home which is only a block away from the Steuben County Jail and across from Cameron Hospital. At least one pit bull was said to be inside of the house at the time. The hospital was locked down and its parking lot was darkened. Numerous nearby streets were also sealed off by police. Negotiations to end the standoff peacefully proved to be fruitless as police said the suspect was uncooperative. Police officers surrounded the home during the standoffs and hid behind their squad cars, some were armed with shotguns. Several times, the suspect came out of the house and swore at police. He also taunted them by yelling, "let's get it on." After he was placed under arrest, the suspect was taken to the Steuben County Jail for booking on a Class C felony for battery. The suspect is identified in Steuben County Jail records as Terry Krzeminski. The case is still under investigation and more charges are expected to be filed. Further information on the incident is expected to be released by Angola Police sometime on Monday.

Police Chase And Capture Burglary Suspect
Saturday, June 6, 2009

(SHIPSHEWANA) - An alleged bakery burglar was bagged by police in LaGrange County early Friday morning. A LaGrange County deputy responded to the report of a burglary in progress at Riseand Roll Bakery on County Road 250-North near the Elkhart County line. When the suspect exited the building the deputy ordered him to stop, but he fled on foot and was apprehended in a field north of the business. 22-year-old Jason Falcon of Goshen was jailed on charges of burglary and fleeing law enforcement. Officers from the Towns of LaGrange and Middlebury assisted in the investigation.

Property Tax Credit Card Payments Start Tuesday
Saturday, June 6, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Steuben County taxpayers will be able to use credit cards to make property tax payments starting on Tuesday. The Steuben G.I.S., Treasurer and Auditor's office have enlisted the services of PayGOV and The Schneider Corporation to make available online property tax collections through the G.I.S. website. Taxpayers will have the option of online property tax payments allowing for collections to take place anytime of the day. A fee will be charged by PayGOV for the use of this service.

United Way Announced "Dueling Pianos" Campaign Kickoff
Saturday, June 6, 2009

(ANGOLA) - This years Steuben County United Way campaign will start earlier than in the past and with a different event. Executive Director Darci Gaff says the 2009 campaign will start with "Piano Wars! Dueling Pianos" on July 25th at Piggy's Sports Bar in Angola. She said they wanted to get summer residents involved in the campaign which in the past has started in September. Gaff says Cheryl Shafer will be this years campaign chair. The campaign goal has not been determined yet but Gaff says they want to be realistic about it given the down economic conditions. Tickets for the Dueling Piano show are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. For tickets, reservations and more information, call the United Way office at 665-6196.

Graduation Ceremonies on Sunday For Fremont and PH Grads
Saturday, June 6, 2009

(UNDATED) - Graduation ceremonies will be held Sunday afternoon at Fremont and Prairie Heights High Schools. A total of 97 seniors are graduating from Fremont where the Valedictorian is Jaclyn Howarth and the Salutatorian is Drake Hepp. Fremont's graduation ceremony starts at 2:00 on Sunday. A total of 109 seniors will graduate from Prairie Heights High School as their commencement will start Sunday at 3:00. Erica Gilliland is the Prairie Heights Valedictorian while Sarah Albright is the class Salutatorian.

Coldwater Prisons Not Affected By Granholm Cuts
Saturday, June 6, 2009

(COLDWATER) - The city of Coldwater and the surrounding area dodged a big economic bullet on Friday. Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm's administration announced the closing of three state prisons and all five of Michigan's minimum-security prison camps this year to save money. Coldwater's two prisons were not on the list. State Representative Kenneth Kurtz said in a statement that it's great news for area families and the local economy and that everybody is breathing a sigh of relief. Kurtz added that Branch County has already sacrificed after the closing of Camp Branch last year, and any additional prison closures would have been devastating for the area. Prisons in Muskegon, Standish and Kincheloe will close between August and November. Three prison camps in the U.P. will be closed along with other camps in Grayling and White Lake.

Kendallville Man Charged In Undercover Meth Buy
Friday, June 5, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A Kendallville man appeared for an initial hearing yesterday on a Class B felony for Dealing in Methamphetamine. Steuben County Prosecutors are also seeking an habitual offender sentencing enhancement against 24-year-old Carl Alvin Danning II. The warrant for his arrest was issued last Wednesday after probable cause was determined. Bond for Danning was set at $50,000 with no 10% allowed during yesterday's hearing in front of Circuit Judge Allen Wheat. A not guilty plea was entered on Danning's behalf and Michael Morrisey was appointed as his attorney. A pre-trial conference was scheduled for July 20th. Danning was charged in connection with an alleged drug sale last October involving a confidential informant for the IMAGE Drug Task Force in which prosecutors say pseudoephedrine was exchanged for meth. According to court documents, prosecutors are seeking the habitual offender enhancement against Danning in connection with convictions for theft in DeKalb County in 2003 and for possession of meth in Steuben County the following year.

SCCF Announces New Grantmaking Philosophy
Friday, June 5, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Along with a new executive director, the Steuben County Community Foundation has announced they will have a new philosophy when it comes to their awarding of grants. According to a news release issued yesterday by Interim President and Chief Executive Officer Oren Skinner, the Foundation's Board of Directors decided during their May 21st meeting to temporarily redirect the foundation's grantmaking philosophy to focus only on areas that help reduce human suffering or improve the human condition. The news release went on to say that the Foundation will work with established organizations and programs that already provide these services to people in need and will not be making grants directly to individuals. The current economic conditions were cited as the reason behind the Foundation's change of direction. Stiend grants to support community-building activities such as festivals and certain special events will still be made. It's expected the measure will be reviewed again in December of 2010. A meeting with local non profit agencies and community members is expected to take place sometime in the future. A date has not been announced. It's not known if the Foundation's change in direction led to the resignation of Executive Director Sharon Stroh. Her resignation was effective last Monday after she served as executive director for 13 years.

Wandering Auburn Boy Back With Parents
Friday, June 5, 2009

(AUBURN) - A four-year-old Auburn boy is back with his parents after he wandered out of his home early Tuesday morning. Crystien Nitcher wanted to go to a nearby park but his parents told him he couldn't go because of the rain. A frantic search for the parents took place after the boy was found unharmed but wet by Auburn Police in the area of Phillip and 13th streets at about 2:00 on Tuesday morning. His parents, Scott and Crystal Failor, were found about seven hours later. Following 48 hours of protective custody with the Department of Child Services and a procedural hearing, the boy was allowed to return home yesterday. The youngster was greeted at his home by a group of reporters and camera people from several northeast Indiana media outlets. It's believed the boy used a stool to reach the hook and eye latch on the screen door and then left while his parents slept.

Lake George "Too Tall House" To Come Before County BZA
Friday, June 5, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Steuben County Board of Zoning Appeals is scheduled to consider a post construction variance request Monday night on what some are calling another "Too Tall House" which has been built by Fremont High School students on Lake George. Fremont Vocational Building Trades has petitioned for a post-construction developmental standard variance for the construction of a home on Lane 130-A that has a height greater than what is permitted in Steuben County Zoning Ordinances. The ordinance calls for two-story homes without basements to be no more than 27 feet high. But the home that has been built stands 34 feet, 11 inches tall. Nearby property owners have complained about such items as grade elevation and drainage. According to the hearing notice, the applicants are requesting to maintain the grade of the property in its current state over concerns about increased runoff and drainage. But this in turn would leave a large portion of the basement out of the ground. At that point, it would not be considered a basement, thus the home would be considered too tall under the zoning ordinance.

Gas Spikes To $2.89, Second Hike This Week
Friday, June 5, 2009

(UNDATED) - It's like adding insult to injury. With high unemployment and cool weather putting a damper on the start of summer, gas prices in northeast Indiana spiked for the second time in a week yesterday. Many stations were selling regular unleaded for $2.89 this morning. It's even worse in Coldwater where gas was selling last night for $2.95 a gallon. The web site Indianagasprices.com reports the average price of gas in the state is about $2.81 which is an increase of 18 cents in the last week and 61 cents in the last month. The cheapest gas in the state can be found at a station in Seymour where it's $2.39. The highest price is in Logansport where it's $2.99 a gallon.

ACRES Land Trust Hosting Concert In The Canyon
Friday, June 5, 2009

(BALL LAKE) - The ACRES Land Trust will be hosting "Concert in the Canyon" on Saturday morning at 10:00 at the Robb Hidden Canyon Nature Preserve. The Hoosier Hobnobbers featuring Chere McKinley and Jim Cornell will present the sounds of bluegrass within the canyon area. No chairs or other seating will be provided so be prepared. The nature preserve is located off of Bellefontaine Road on Ball Lake Lane 201A.

DFS Approves 2010 Grants
Friday, June 5, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Drug Free Steuben Board approved $30,000 worth of 2010 grants as well as 2009 Mini-grants totaling $1,500 on Thursday their monthly meeting. Lisa Lysaght from Drug Free Steuben said application requests for 2010 grants totaled over $43,000. Grants were approved in such areas of law enforcement, treatment and prevention. Money for administrative projects was chopped from a request for over $3,700 down to the approved amount of $400. There is still a total of $600 available for 2009 mini grants.

Two Suits Filed Against SLRWD In Superior Court
Thursday, June 4, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Steuben Lakes Regional Waste District has been named as defendants in a pair of plenary lawsuits that were recently filed in Steuben Superior Court. The first one filed on May 22nd by property owners Clay Crabill, Neal Lewis, Thomas Smith and Gale VanWagner challenges the districts power of eminent domain. According to court documents, the plantiffs claim as part of the Orland Sewer Project, they have been asked by the district to donate easements or else punitive actions would be taken against them including higher rates and extra charges for the installation of equipment. VanWagner is seeking to have his easement donation rescinded while the other three plantiffs have refused to donate property. The other suit was filed on May 29th by Philip Norris. He and other ratepayers claim in a class action complaint that the district charged them for 11 months starting in May of 2005 when they say they were not connected to the system. Steuben County Judges William Fee and Allen Wheat have recused themselves from both cases since they are waste district customers. Special judges will have to be appointed in both cases.

Toledo Man Charged In Fake Payroll Check Scheme
Thursday, June 4, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A Toledo, Ohio man was formally charged Wednesday in Steuben Circuit Court for his part in an alleged counterfeit payroll check writing scheme. 32-year-old Derek Lance Overly is facing a Class C felony for Aiding in Forgery. A not guilty plea was entered on his behalf during Wednesday's inital hearing. Bond was set at $10,000 and a pre-trial conference was scheduled for July 20th. Court records indicate Overly is one of two suspects in the case. He and 25-year-old co-defendant Joshua Bennett of Archbold, Ohio were arrested last July in Defiance County, Ohio. Bennett pled guilty to a forgery charge last January during an initial hearing in Steuben Magistrates Court. He was later given a six year sentence and ordered to pay nearly $1,700 in restitution to the Angola Meijer and Wal-Mart Stores where police say a total of three fake checks were passed last July 8th. Overly was booked Tuesday on a Steuben County warrant that was issued last July 24th. According to court documents, Steuben County authorities accuse Overly of using computer equipment to produce the phony payroll checks in his car which they say were later cashed by Bennett. Investigators accused the men of planning to use the money for hotel rooms and food and eventually a trip to Mexico.

Michels Named New Steuben County Plan Director
Thursday, June 4, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Steuben County Plan Commission approved the hiring of Zach Michels as the County's New Plan Director on Wednesday night. He will take over for Jonathan Ringle who resigned last month after accepting a job in Iron Mountain, Michigan. Ringle had recommended Michels be his successor. Michels is a University of Michigan graduate who has worked in the Plan Office as Ringle's assistant since last November. Before that, he worked for the city of Mount Pleasant, Michigan. Plan Commission Chair Larry Gilbert said there were three applicants for the job. Also during Wednesday nights meeting, Michels presented Plan Commission members draft language of a proposed wind turbine ordinance for their review over the next month. He said it would cover general provisions for wind turbines of all sizes. The Plan Commission also approved the appointment of Chris Burke to the Lakes Advisory Board.

New Tornado Siren Being Installed at Pokagon State Park
Thursday, June 4, 2009

(LAKE JAMES) - Steuben County Emergency Management will be installing a new tornado siren today at Pokagon State Park. It will be tested throughout the day so if you hear it, don't worry. There is no severe weather in the area.

Three Indiana Residents Arrested On Drug Charges In Ohio
Thursday, June 4, 2009

(BRYAN, OHIO) - Three Indiana residents were arrested last night in Bryan, Ohio as police say they tried to buy Pseudoephedrine, which is a major component for methamphetamine, at various businesses. Taken into custody were 49-year-old Brenda Vanhalst of Wolcotville, 31-year-old Nicholas Vanhalst of Elkhart and 24-year-old Michael Vanhalst of Kendallville. Bryan Police Sgt. Stan Nihart says they were first notified just after 6:00 last night. He says all three were taken to the Corrections Center of Northwest Ohio on charges of illegal assembly or possession of chemicals for the manufacture of drugs. Nihart adds other charges are pending. Several other northwest Ohio police agencies assisted Bryan Police during the investigation.

Angola Looks at Indiana Main Street Program
Thursday, June 4, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Fremont and Orland have already joined the Indiana Main Street program as part of their downtown improvement projects. The City of Angola is now considering signing up for the program which has been administered through the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs for the past four years. Program Manager Shae Young talked with a group of business and government representatives yesterday during an informal gathering at the Coachlight Coffeehouse. She said 84 communities around the state have joined the program which allows for the exchange of information between members. According to a program flyer, Indiana Main Street encourages development and improvement of downtown areas. Opportunities available to Main Street communities include downtown enhancement grants, a building site locator database and a technical assistance program.

Coldwater Man Arrested For Child Internet Sex Crimes
Thursday, June 4, 2009

(COLDWATER) - A 47-year-old Coldwater man was arrested at his home early this morning on four internet sex crime charges that authorities say involved minors. Coldwater Public Safety Director Brett Pehrson says his department assisted the Wayne County Sheriff's Department in the arrest of the man after a long investigation. A search warrant was also served on the man's computer and computer-related equipment. Two of the charges were for dissemination of sexually explicit matter to minors. The charges carry prison sentences of between two and four years or a fine of $5,000. The other two charges were misdemeanors for trying to distribute sexually explicit matter to children. The unidentified man was lodged at the Branch County Jail awaiting his pickup from the Wayne County Sheriffs Department for arraignment. Coldwater Police are not releasing the suspect's name pending his arraignment.

FW Police Officer Cleared In Shooting Of Avilla Bank Robbery Suspect
Thursday, June 4, 2009

(FORT WAYNE) - (AP) - Allen County Prosecutor Karen Richards says a Fort Wayne police officer was justified in the fatal shooting of an Avilla bank robbery suspect who authorities say pulled a replica handgun on officers last January 14th. Richards says no charges would be filed against Fort Wayne Patrolman Peter Mooney. Police say Mooney shot 37-year-old Anthony Taylor of Bluffton
three times after he had turned toward officers while holding what they thought was a pistol. Taylor was suspected of robbing the Peoples Federal Bank in Avilla. Officers found him inside a taxi at a gas station on Fort Wayne's east side several hours later. Police say Taylor ran from the taxi, ignoring orders to stop and drop his weapon.

LaGrange County Drug Sweep Nets 18th Arrest
Wednesday, June 3, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - Police arrested another man on the day after a SWAT team raided a home near Ontario. 47-year-old Russell Lewis Sr. of LaGrange was living in the home at 3830 North County Road 200-East. LaGrange County Sheriff’s Department Detective Tad Oakley says Lewis faces preliminary charges of conspiracy or aiding in the manufacture of methamphetamine and maintaining a common nuisance. 46-year-old Roy Lewis also lived at the home. He was among 17 people arrested Tuesday evening during a warrant sweep. The Northeast Indiana SWAT team found an alleged active meth lab at the home during the raid.

Angola Man Faces Four Sexual Misconduct Charges
Wednesday, June 3, 2009

(ANGOLA) - An initial hearing was held this morning for an Angola man who has been charged with four Class B felony charges of sexual misconduct with a minor. Bond for 36-year-old Conway Allen Little was set at $40,000 with no 10% allowed. Lisa Dirig was appointed as his attorney and not guilty pleas were entered on Little's behalf. His case will go through Steuben Circuit Court where a pre-trial conference was scheduled for July 13th. Little was booked Monday at the Steuben County Jail on a warrant that was issued by Prosecutors on May 7th. The charges were filed following an Angola Police Department investigation into the alleged incidents involving a 14-year-old girl which authorities say took place between last December and March. Little was already scheduled to make a June 12th appearance in Magistrates Court on Class B misdemeanor charges of public intoxication and disorderly conduct.

Another Spike Sends Gas Prices Up To $2.75
Wednesday, June 3, 2009

(UNDATED) - A region which is dealing with some of the highest unemployment rates in Indiana has a new problem, soaring gas prices. Another spike of at least 15 cents on Tuesday sent prices across northeast Indiana up to near $2.75 a gallon. The web site Indianagasprices.com reports the average price of gas in Indiana is now $2.66 a gallon which is a 14 cent increase in the last week and an increase of 58 cents in the last 30 days. It was only about six weeks ago when the average price of gas in Indiana was under $2 a gallon. The lowest price for gas in the state can be found in Crawfordsville at $2.48, the highest price is in Evansville where one station is selling gas for $2.89 a gallon. The rising gas prices could be an indication of better economic times. They mirror the recent jump in crude oil prices. After the market bottomed out at the first of the year, crude is now selling for about $66 a barrell. OPEC says crude could sell for as high as $90 early next year.

Thomas Says Good Bye At His Last PHSB Meeting
Wednesday, June 3, 2009

(BRUSHY PRAIRIE) - Since he will not be able to attend the next Prairie Heights School Board meeting in two weeks, outgoing Superintendent Paul Thomas thanked school administrators at the end of Tuesday nights meeting as he will be retiring at the end of the month. He noted that there have been ups and downs during the six years he served as Superintendent but he felt there have been more good times than bad. Thomas also said a lot of good things have happened to the district and that the facilities and staff are excellent. He wished his successor Alan Middleton the best of luck. Middleton will officially take over as the districts Superintendent on July 1st. In other business on Tuesday night, Thomas announced that Middle School Principal Brenda Rummel has received the District Three Principal of the Year Award from the Indiana Association of School Principals. The board also hired Jackie Bodenhafer as a full time kindergarten teacher at Milford Elementary and they approved the appointment of Jerry White to the LaGrange County Library Board. He will serve out the balance of a term which expires at the end of this year.

At Least 17 Arrested In IMAGE LaGrange County Sweep
Wednesday, June 3, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - The first IMAGE Drug Task Force warrant sweep in LaGrange County in many years netted two active meth labs and at least 17 arrests Tuesday evening, including an expectant mother about ready to give birth. Two SWAT Teams and a cadre of officers from several departments fanned out across the county. LaGrange County Sheriff Terry Martin says the arrests were made without incident or resistance. 16 of the suspects listed LaGrange addresses, while one was from Howe, one was from Wolcottville, and one was from Michigan. Martin said the Indiana State Police SWAT team raided the Mongo area home of 37-year-old Larry Burlew Junior on 250 North. He was charged with possession, manufacturing and dealing methamphetamine, possession of precursors, aiding in dealing meth, two counts of maintaining a common nuisance, and a warrant from Michigan's St. Joseph County for operating or maintaining a meth lab. The Northeast Indiana SWAT Team raided the residence of 46-year-old Roy Lewis on 200 East near Ontario. Officers discovered an alleged meth lab at the residence. Lewis was arrested on warrants charging him with conspiracy to manufacture meth, two counts of maintaining a common nuisance, and visiting a common nuisance, and additional charges are pending. Martin said a approximately 80 police and jail officers participated in the sweep. The sheriff said he was pleased with the results of the IMAGE Drug Task Force investigation, which began one year ago. Departments participating included the LaGrange County Sheriff's Department, Indiana State Police, Shipshewana Police, LaGrange Police, Wolcottville Police, Indiana Conservation Officers, and officers from other departments affiliated with the Task Force. Martin said all those detained were held without bond pending court appearances.

Others arrested included:
Scott Pearson, 37, LaGrange - conspiracy to manufacture meth, 2 counts dealing meth, 3 counts maintaining a common nuisance, visiting a common nuisance, additional charges pending.
Brandi Lewis, 25, LaGrange - dealing meth, conspiracy to manufacture meth, 3 counts maintaining a common nuisance, Noble County warrant for illegal purchase of ephedrine, additional charges pending.
Danielle Hedges, 31, LaGrange - 2 counts aiding in delivery of meth, 2 counts maintaining a common nuisance, possession of meth.
Michael Sisson, 29, LaGrange - conspiracy to manufacture meth, maintaining a common nuisance, visiting a common nuisance.
Ernestine Ellis, 48, LaGrange - 3 counts dealing marijuana, 2 counts maintaining a common nuisance.
Misty-Leigh Ellis, 18, LaGrange - dealing marijuana, 2 counts maintaining a common nuisance.
Geoffrey March II, 22, LaGrange - 2 counts visiting a common nuisance.
Michael Sawyer, 20, LaGrange - dealing marijuana
Justin Combs, 25, Howe - visiting a common nuisance, additional charges pending.
Joseph Fuller, 41, LaGrange - possession of marijuana, visiting a common nuisance, warrant for visiting common nuisance.
Cody Ritchie, 21, LaGrange - visiting a common nuisance, Allen County warrant for burglary.
Cory Richards, 26, LaGrange - visiting a common nuisance.
Robert Ellis, 29, Wolcottville - dealing meth, possession of precursors.
Holly Lucas, 23, LaGrange - visiting a common nuisance, possession of marijuana, possession of meth, neglect of a dependent.
Kristina Mapes, 24, Howe - visiting a common nuisance, additional charges pending

Angola HPC Approves United Methodist Fence Request
Wednesday, June 3, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Angola Historic Preservation Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness Tuesday night for a six foot fence with a locking gate that will be installed between the United Methodist Church and the Cahoot's building on West Maumee. The fence is being put in to help keep youngsters who go to Cahoots out of that space. Landscaping would also be included as part of the project. Meanwhile, with two vacancies on the board, the members who attended last nights meeting decided to hold off on a residential district meeting until those vacancies are filled. Jonathan Ringle and Doug Schmucker had to resign recently from the board after accepting jobs out of town.

Branch County Fire Under Investigation
Wednesday, June 3, 2009

(MATTESON TOWNSHIP) - A fire yesterday morning at a vacant farm house in Branch County's Matteson Township could result in the owner paying restitution to the Bronson Fire Department. Bronson Fire Chief Brent Wilber says the house at 626 Babcock Road was burned down by owner LeRoy Myers so that land could be cleared but Michigan state law prohibits the burning of any structure, even by the owner. A report from the Branch County Sheriff's Department is expected to be turned over to County Prosecutors. Bronson firefighters spent nearly an hour trying to put the flames out. No injuries were reported. Wilber says restitution will be sought for his department's work and he is also requesting a ticket be issued for an illegal burn.

Waterloo Home Fire Under Investigation
Wednesday, June 3, 2009

(WATERLOO) - A fire which destroyed a two-story home on Plank Road in Waterloo yesterday morning is under investigation. The blaze broke out at about 9:00. Fire officials think it started in the garage. They tell the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette that no one was home at the time and there were no injuries. Waterloo firefighters were assisted by crews from Ashley, Corunna, Butler and Auburn. Pleasant Lake and Hudson firefighters were called up on standby.

Auburn Police Find Parents Of Unattended Child
Tuesday, June 2, 2009

(AUBURN) - A frantic seven hour search for the parents of a four-year-old boy, who was found unattended by police, had a happy ending this morning in Auburn. Auburn Police Chief Martin McCoy says the boy was intially found at about 2:15 in the area of Phillip and 13th streets. McCoy says the child was unharmed but was wet from being out in the rain. He was not able to tell or show officers where he lived and could only say his name was Crystien. The mother of the child phoned police at about 9:00 after she was told by a local Head Start office that her child had been found by officers. McCoy says the boy was put to bed at around 9:30 last night. The parents told police he was upset because he was not allowed to go to the park. It's believed the boy awoke after his parents went to sleep, put on pants and shoes, used a stool to reach the hook and eye latch on the screen door and then left the home to walk to the park. Once at the park, the boy was observed by and adult who then called Auburn Police. The youngster has been placed in the custody of the Department of Child Services, where he will stay until a hearing can be held within the next two days. The search included the activation of the Child is Missing network. Phone messages were sent out to Auburn area residents while police and firefighters went door-to-door in an attempt to locate anyone who may have recognized the child.

Auburn Manufacturer Expanding Operations
Tuesday, June 2, 2009

(AUBURN) - The Auburn area is getting another economic shot in the arm. Indiana Economic Development Corporation officials announced today that heating system parts manufacturer Specialized Component Parts Limited will expand its Auburn operations and create 30 new jobs by 2012. The 20-year-old company plans to invest $2.6 million in upgrades at its South Indiana Avenue location. The expansion is expected to more than double the number of employees at the company. The state is offering up to $250,000 in performance-based tax credits and up to $15,500 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. The city of Auburn will also consider property tax abatements at the request of the DeKalb County Economic Development Partnership. It's the third major expansion in DeKalb County in recent months. Metal Technologies Auburn is adding 32 jobs while Therma-Tru Doors in Butler announced a $5 million expansion and the creation of 150 new jobs in March.

Burrell Sentenced To Six Years
Tuesday, June 2, 2009

(ANGOLA) - An Angola man was sentenced Monday morning in Steuben Superior Court after he pled guilty in March to a Class C felony possesion of methamphetamine with a firearm. 21-year-old Zao Burrell was given a five-year sentence as part of the fixed term plea agreement. He was given an additional year for a probation violation and credit for 450 days already served in jail after he was arrested in March of 2008. Four other charges in the methamphetamine case were dismissed in exchange for his guilty plea. Burrell can serve his time on community corrections or work release if he qualifies. If not, the time will have to be served in the Department of Corrections.

Vierling Sentenced In Meth Lab Fire Case
Tuesday, June 2, 2009

(ANGOLA) - One of several people arrested about a year ago when a meth lab caused a house fire in the 200 block of North Superior in Angola was sentenced Monday afternoon in Steuben Circuit Court. 34-year-old Ginnifer Lyn Vierling was given a ten-year-sentence for the Class B felony of Aiding In Dealing Methamphetamine after she pled guilty to the charge in April. Judge Allen Wheat suspended six years of the sentence and he placed Vierling on four years probation. In exchange for her guilty plea, prosecutors dropped a Class A felony of the same charge which was originally filed at the time of her arrest.

Commissioners Want More Study On Work Release Proposal
Tuesday, June 2, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Steuben County Commissioners seem to like a proposal from Community Corrections Director Brett Hayes about moving the work release program into Community Corrections but they want further study on the matter. The proposal was first presented during a special County Council meeting last Thursday in attempt to save the work release program. It was scheduled to be trimmed from the Sheriffs Department budget as the county deals with a $1 million budget shortfall. Hayes has proposed that grant funding from the Indiana Department of Corrections be obtained in order to make the transfer possible. Hayes said he wrote to the D.O.C. last Thursday and should know within the next month if it's a go or no go. County Commission Chair Mayo Sanders said during Monday's meeting they would have to take a hard look at the proposal to see what kind of strings might be attached. In other business, Allen Lefevre from the Lake Gage Cottage Owners Association said they were looking into the installation of dry hydrants after the April 24th blaze at Lone Tree Point on Lake James caused over $6 million worth of damage. He said they were not looking for funding assistance from the county, just their blessing. County Attorney Don Stuckey did not see any legal objections as long as the hydrants don't interfere with road maintenance. In addition, Sanders said Clear Lake Town officials want more information concerning the countys proposal to sell the Clear Lake Park to the town and in turn using the money to buy land for a new County 4-H park. Sanders said Clear Lake officials want to see at least a figure of what the Commissioners want or an appraisal of the property. On another matter, Interim Plan Director Zach Michels said a Florida company is looking to do a feasibility study into building a wind turbine in Steuben County. Sanders said he wanted more information on what the company's costs are. Michels was told to get more information for the next Commissioners meeting on June 15th.

City Council Approves Abatement For Klein Group Building Purchase
Tuesday, June 2, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Angola City Council approved an ordinance on Monday night which designates a 30,000 square foot office building and seven acres of land on the city's north side an economic revitalization area. A.O. Associates of Coldwater, otherwise known as the Klein Group, is buying the property at 330 Intertech Parkway and bringing 15 current employees to Angola with future plans to hire 10 additional workers. The resolution gives A.O. Associates a two year tax abatement on the property. Angola Mayor Dick Hickman felt the building was under utilized. Fred Beck from A.O. Associates said it was an exciting time for his company. In other business, the third reading on the ordinance which would vacate Kinney Street between Moss and Park was tabled pending further information from Trine University officials. The renovation project on the first floor of City Hall is now complete and Mayor Hickman thanked those who helped out. Members of the Angola Wastewater Department were also presented with awards from the recent Indiana Water Enviroment Association Challenge. Curt Dowell, Pat Brewbaker, Scott Stevens and Jeff Gaff were honored for finishing first in the Operations and Maintenance Event.

Allied Manufacturing Builds First Modular Trailer
Tuesday, June 2, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Allied Manufacturing in Angola rolled out their first mobile modular ice cream trailer yesterday before it was shipped to a company near Toronto, Ontario. The company is located at 300 Industrial Drive. A manufacturing plant opened in Angola just over a year ago which the company hopes will lead to 35 additional jobs over the next few years. Allied manufactures buildings for franchises which are made in the factory and then trucked to their final destination. Allied's Andrew Garman says two more mobile ice cream stands will be sent out over the next week to Puerto Rico and Orlando, Florida.

Escapee Remains At Large
Tuesday, June 2, 2009

(Bryan, OH) – A Bryan, Ohio man is still at-large after escaping from authorities. Northwest Ohio Police are teaming up in a search for Lucas P. Manley of Bryan. The Ohio Highway Patrol says Manley escaped after he was arrested and charged with O.V.I. early Sunday morning. The escape occurred near the Fountain City Ice House, at the intersection of Mulberry and Main streets at 12:47 a.m. Sunday. According to a news release, Manley had been detained and handcuffed in the back of a marked cruiser as officers inventoried the contents of his vehicle. Bryan Police and Williams County Sheriff’s K-9 units searched the area, but were unable to find Manley who is being charged with felony escape and felony theft. Any person with knowledge of Manley's location is urged to contact the Defiance County Highway Patrol Post at 419-784-0063.

Bicyclist Killed In Sturgis Accident
Tuesday, June 2, 2009

(STURGIS) – A Sturgis man is dead after being hit by a vehicle Monday night in Fawn River Township. Michigan State Police say 52 year old Alvin Wooster had been riding his bicycle on Fawn River Road near Big Hill Road at 10:15pm when a man and a woman in a car stopped to see if Wooster was okay. Wooster walked over to the car which was parked partially in the oncoming lane. A second vehicle, driven by 52 year old Karen Cary of Burr Oak, didn’t see Wooster standing in the road, and struck him as she tried to drive around the vehicle that was partially blocking her lane. Wooster was taken to Sturgis Hospital where he was pronounced dead. The investigation is still pending.

Hendry Park Student Wins Essay Contest
Tuesday, June 2, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A Hendry Park 5th grade student is the Steuben County winner of the Indiana Troopers Association Dave Deuter Memorial Essay Contest on being a good citizen. Hannah McElroy won a $500 savings bonds and she has been invited to a ceremony at the State House on June 12th which is scheduled to include Governor Daniels. The essay contest was for 4th and 5th graders throughout the state of Indiana.

Stroh Resigns As SCCF Executive Director
Monday, June 1, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Sharon Stroh is no longer the Executive Director of the Steuben County Community Foundation. An official announcement was expected to be released later today but Foundation Board Chair Ellen Bisson has confirmed that Stroh has resigned from the job she has held since 1996. Bisson says Stroh's resignation was submitted last week and is effective today. When asked if Stroh's intentions were surprising, Bisson would only say Stroh has resigned to pursue other community development opportunities adding she left on good terms with the Foundation in good shape. A four-member committee has been formed to look for Stroh's successor. Oren Skinner will be the Foundation interim C.E.O. while a search for Stroh's successor is conducted. It's not known yet when a new Foundation Director will be chosen as the committee has not even held their first meeting. Stroh has been unavailable for comment but she told the Herald-Republican she felt she did "a tremendous job while serving as executive director".

Two Killed In LaGrange County Crash
Monday, June 1, 2009

(SHIPSHEWANA) - Two area residents are dead and a Fort Wayne man faces a charge of operating while intoxicated causing death following a Sunday morning crash south of Shipshewana. The LaGrange County Sheriff’s Department says 66-year-old William Kaser of Wawaka died at the scene, while 47-year-old Leslie Handshoe of Wolcottville died while being flown to a trauma center. Investigators say a car driven by 25-year-old Matthew Parish of Fort Wayne was northbound on State Road 5 just north of County Road 50-South. They say Parish’s car struck the right rear of Kaser’s car, which was also northbound. The impact caused Kaser’s car to cross the center line and strike the southbound minivan driven by Handshoe. 19-year-old Lisa Hochestler of Wolcottville was a passenger in the front seat of Handshoe’s van and suffered internal injuries and lacerations. She was in fair condition early this morning at Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne. Police say Parish had been drinking. The crash happened just after 7:00am. Indiana State Police, Shipshewana firefighters and EMS assisted at the scene.

Fort Wayne GM Plant Spared Latest Round Of Closures
Monday, June 1, 2009

(FORT WAYNE) - (AP) - The General Motors plant in Fort Wayne has been spared the latest round of closings and cutbacks by the automaker as the company officially filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy this morning but the Indianapolis metal-stamping plant may now shut down before its planned December 2011 closure date. Nine more plants will be permanently closed and three others will be idled in order trim production and labor costs under bankruptcy protection. Michigan is taking the brunt of the belt-tightening which according to Governor Jennifer Granholm will lead to a tough summer. An assembly plant in Pontiac will close this year while another plant in Orion will shut down production but remain on standby. Powertrain plants in Livonia, Flint and Ypsilanti Township will close next year. A stamping plant in Pontiac will be idled but remain in a standby capacity.

Juvenile Arrested In "Intentionally Set" Hamilton House Fire
Monday, June 1, 2009

(HAMILTON) - A juvenile was arrested yesterday and released to the custody of parents as investigators say an early Sunday morning house fire in Hamilton was intentionally set. Firefighters were called to an empty house at 601 South Wayne Street at 2:55am. Heavy flames and smoke were coming out of the back of the home when firefighters arrived. The fire was called under control at 4:40am but not before there was heavy smoke and heat damage throughout the house and heavy structural damage to the fire room. A dollar amount on the damage was not established. The homeowner is from the Angola area. One minor injury was reported as an Ashley firefighter suffered minor burns to his hand and was treated at the scene. Hamilton firefighters got mutual aide from Pleasant Lake, Angola, Waterloo, Butler and Ashley. Metz was called up on standby while Florence Township firefighters manned the Hamilton station. The charges against the juvenile who was arrested will be sent to the DeKalb County Probation Department.

Saturday Crash Near Kendallville Injures Two
Monday, June 1, 2009

(KENDALLVILLE) - Two people were injured Saturday afternoon in a collision on U-S 6 west of Kendallville. The Noble County Sheriff’s Department says an SUV driven by 18-year-old Seth Newman of Corunna failed to yield as it turned onto U-S 6 from County Road 450-East. Newman’s vehicle was struck in the driver’s side door by a westbound SUV driven by Hedi Wolf of Kendallville.
Newman was flown to Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne with chest and abdominal injuries. A Parkview spokeswoman says he was no longer listed as a patient this morning. Wolf was treated at Parkview -Noble Hospital for injuries to her face and neck. The crash happened just after 4:00pm on Saturday afternoon.

Two Hamilton Students Awarded Humanities Fine Arts Grants
Monday, June 1, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Two Hamilton students have been announced as this years grant recipients of the Steuben County Community Foundation's 5th Annual Humanities Fine Arts program. Amanda Webb plans to attend the George N. Parks Academy at Illinois State University while Haley Naus will attend the University of North Carolina-Greensboro Summer Music Camp. The purpose of the program is to provide financial assistance for middle and high school students that believe they have the talent and or interest in attending summer fine arts camps. Eligible students have to be Steuben County residents. They also have to finish the sixth grade. Eligible students must attend a county middle or high school or be home schooled.

NW Ohio Police Look For Escapee
Monday, June 1, 2009

(Bryan, OH) – Police agencies in northwest Ohio are looking for a Bryan man who escaped from authorities over the weekend. According to a news release from the Ohio Highway Patrol, police are looking for Lucas P. Manley. They say Manley escaped after he was arrested and charged with O.V.I. early Sunday morning. The escape occurred near the Fountain City Ice House, at the intersection of Mulberry and Main streets at about 12:45am. According to a news release, Manley had been handcuffed and seated in the back of a marked cruiser as officers inventoried the contents of his vehicle. Bryan Police and Williams County Sheriff’s K-9 units searched the area, but were unable to find Manley. Any person with knowledge of his whereabout is asked to call the Ohio Highway Patrol's post in Defiance County at 419-784-0063.

Zehr Out As Howe 121 Project Manager
Monday, June 1, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - Former LaGrange County Economic Development Coordinator Gary Zehr won't stay on as a project manager for the Howe 121 sewer project which he helped to develop and guide over the last few years. A disagreement over who should pay the $4,000 to extend Zehr's contract through the completion of construction in September was settled this morning when County Commissioners agreed not to take the money from unallocated economic development income tax dollars. Commission president Phil Curtis indicated at last Friday's Redevelopment Commission meeting that he thought the new LaGrange County Economic Development Corporation should pay for Zehr's contract extension. Ze$hr helped to broker the agreements between the county, the City of Sturgis, and the LaGrange County Regional Utility District that led to the joint sewer project at the Toll Road. He also worked on the joint marketing agreement.

LaGrange County Commissioners Continue To Look At Sign Ordinance
Monday, June 1, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - The LaGrange County Commissioners want to take one more look at a proposed sign ordinance amendment before taking action. Planning and Zoning Administrator Chris Godlewski certified plan commission passage of the new ordinance to the commissioners on Monday. That action starts a 90 day window for the commissioners to take action on the recommendation. If they take no action, it becomes effective after that 90 days. The commissioners heard a suggestion from Amish businessman Vernon Beachy of Shipshewana to separate the proposed sign size regulations between ground-mounted and wall-mounted signs. Plan Commission member Steve Engleking urged the commissioners not to delay enactment of the ordinance. County commission President Phil Curtis pointed out the delay was not entirely the commissioners' fault. Commissioner George Bachman said the delay might only be a couple of weeks.

Proposal May Save Steuben County Work Release Program
Friday, May 29, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A proposal from Steuben County Community Corrections Director Brett Hayes that was made Thursday morning during a special Steuben County Council meeting may prevent the loss of the county's work release program. The program was scheduled to be eliminated by the Sheriffs Department along with four confinement officer positions after all department heads were ordered to trim three percent from their appropriated budgets in order to cover a nearly $1 million 2009 county budget shortfall. Sheriff Rick Lewis said the three percent reduction would mean a $95,000 cut in his departments budget and that would include the work release program coming to an end. But Hayes proposed to the Council later in the meeting that Indiana Department of Correction funding be obtained to move work release under Community Corrections. Council members were receptive and after further discussion, the Council directed Hayes to move forward with his proposal. County Auditor Pam Coleman said the 2009 budget was trimmed to just over $11 million with all of the cuts supplied by the various departments. She estimated another $30,000 to $40,000 will have to be cut before the Council's meeting on June 9th. The only other proposed layoff was a part time position in the G.I.S. office.

Orland Town Council Extends SLRWD Agreement
Friday, May 29, 2009

(ORLAND) - As work on the Orland Sewer Project gets underway, the Orland Town Council voted to extend agreement with the Steuben Lakes Regional Waste District during a special meeting Thursday night. The vote was 2-0 with Council member David Brown abstaining. The district and the town originally entered into a five year agreement in 2004 but various delays have pushed back the start of the project which will include the town of Orland as well as Wall and Brown Lakes. While some in Orland feel the project is not needed and there have been complaints about the $75 monthly residential rate, residents of Wall Lake who spoke during a May 12th public hearing on the rate ordinance said they were in favor of the project due to past septic problems. Those problems include the inability to flush toilets whenever it rained. Bids for the project as well as a rate ordinance have been approved in recent weeks by the Waste District Board of Trustees. The extended agreement between the town and the district also cover right-of-ways and a legal settlement reached with the engineering firm of Jones and Henry after another proposed sewer project did not get built over a decade ago.

Initial Hearings Held For Three DeKalb County Murder Suspects
Friday, May 29, 2009

(AUBURN) - Three men charged in connection with the murder two weeks ago of a flea market merchant appeared for initial hearings yesterday in DeKalb County Superior Courts One and Two. Not guilty pleas were entered on behalf of 49-year-old Matthew W. Nelson of Orland, 29-year-old Matthu Ryan Sanders of Hudson and 39-year-old Clint Daniel Hess of Corunna. A pre-trial conference for Sanders was scheduled for June 29th. Nelson and Hess are scheduled to appear for pre-trial conferences on August 4th. All three are being held without bond on murder and robbery charges in the death of 63-year-old Raymond Edward Morrow who was found shot to death at his Walker-Rowe Airport flea market near Waterloo. Indiana State Police say he was robbed of money and weapons and the apparent motive was a $4,000 debt that Hess owed Morrow. A fourth suspect in the case, 51-year-old Jeffrey William Cain, is being held in Florida while he awaits extradition back to Indiana. State Police investigators say Cain fired the shots that killed Morrow and that the other three suspects were accomplices in the case.

Metaldyne Files For Chapter 11 Bankruptcy
Friday, May 29, 2009

(FREMONT) - A company with Steuben County connections has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The filing this week by Metaldyne Corporation in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in New York does not include the company's non-U.S. entities or operations. According to Inside Indiana Business, the company has entered into two non-binding Letters of Intent to sell a majority of its assets under a court supervised sale process. The Metaldyne plant in Fremont has laid off 67 workers since the first of the year due to what the company called a sudden and unexpected reduction of orders. Metaldyne makes parts for the auto industry. Company officials say the bankruptcy is needed to address liquidity needs and facilitate a restructuring. For access to certain court documents and other information about Metaldyne’s Chapter 11 case, you can visit www.metaldynerestructuring.com.

Fawn River Sewer Construction Ready To Start
Friday, May 29, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - Construction of the sewer infrastructure on the Indiana side of the Fawn River Crossing Development should begin on Monday. That’s the word from LaGrange County Redevelopment Director Gary Zehr, who added that work on the Sturgis side has begun. But the LaGrange County Redevelopment Commission is also facing some issues as the long-awaited project begins. R.D.C. Attorney Kurt Bachman says the County Utility District has requested a meeting with the R.D.C. to discuss the impact of current economic conditions on the project. The Utility District is apparently concerned about the impact company closings at Fawn River will have on sewer and water rates. The R.D.C. agreed to hold a joint meeting with the Utility District on July 24th. Zehr and R.D.C. Chairman Meredith Cameron also raised the possibility of requesting some adjustment in the pay-back schedule for the loan from the county’s Major Moves fund. R.D.C. member and County Commission President Phil Curtis said there may be some room to negotiate an adjustment in the interest rate the R.D.C. pays, but likely not on the principal.

Legal Issue Sinks Pirates On Pigeon Until June 13th
Friday, May 29, 2009

(MONGO) - The Pirates of the Pigeon River will have to wait a couple more weeks to set sail. Apparently a legal issue has scuttled the Pirates’ planned launch at Mongo this weekend. Prairie Heights High School drama department students planned to dress as pirates and intercept canoeists on the Pigeon River. The idea is create a unique experience on the river that will attract more tourists. Organizers say the new launch date will be June 13th which is the weekend after graduation at Prairie Heights.

SCCF Capital Campaign Closes In On Goal
Friday, May 29, 2009

(ANGOLA) - After relocating to a new building last July, the Steuben County Community Foundation started a $600,000 to help pay for upgrades on the property. Community Foundation Executive Director Sharon Stroh says over $376,000 has been paid or pledged so far. She says a recent pledge from the Dekko Foundation will pay off the last $100,000 so the Foundation still needs to raise $123,000 to reach their goal by July 31st. Over 100 donors have helped out so far including all of the Foundation board and staff members.

Hamilton High School Seniors Graduate
Friday, May 29, 2009

(HAMILTON) - Hamilton High School seniors will get their diplomas tonight during graduation ceremonies in the High School gymnasium. The Class of 2009 has 45 students. The Valedictorian is Matthew Presley while the Salutatorian is Annie Kaufman. Hamilton seniors are the first in Steuben County to get their diplomas as graduation ceremonies start to kick in. Fremont and Prairie Heights senior graduate next Sunday June 7th while graduation for Angola seniors will be on June 14th.

Reward Offered In Rapid Rental Thefts
Thursday, May 28, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A reward is being offered by Steuben County Crime Stoppers after a trailer and a excavator were stolen from Rapid Rental on 200 West over the holiday weekend. Crime Stoppers Coordinator Shari Dean says the items were taken sometime between 8:30 Sunday night and 7:00 Monday morning. They were described as a black 2007 dual axle trailer with Indiana registration 764071 and a white 2005 enclosed cab Bobcat 334 G excavator. Anyone with information on this crime or any other crime is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 668-STOP or 1-800-600-HALT. You don't have to give your name and your tip could lead to a cash reward of up to $1,000.

Four Arrested in DeKalb County Murder Case
Thursday, May 28, 2009

Clint Hess Matthew Nelson Matthu Sanders

(AUBURN) - Four suspects have been arrested in connection with the May 15th murder of 63-year-old Raymond Edward Morrow of Butler. Morrow was a flea market merchant at the Walker-Rowe Airport near Waterloo when he was shot several times and robbed of money and weapons. Indiana State Police Sgt. Ron Galaviz says three of the suspects are from Indiana, the other was arrested in Florida. Facing charges of murder and robbery while armed with a deadly weapon are 49-year-old Matthew W. Nelson of Orland, 29-year-old Matthu Ryan Sanders of Hudson and 39-year-old Clint Daniel Hess of Corunna. In addition, 51-year-old Jeffrey Cain was arrested in St. Cloud, Florida and charged with murder and armed robbery. Sanders appeared for his initial hearing this afternoon in DeKalb Superior Court Number One where he was ordered held without bond and a not guilty plea was entered on his behalf. A pre-trial conference was scheduled for June 29th. Initial hearings for Nelson and Hess were scheduled for late this afternoon in DeKalb Superior Court Two. In conjunction with his investigation, Indiana State Police Detective Mark Heffelfinger traveled to Florida last Saturday and interviewed Cain who was arrested afterwards. Cain is expected to be brought back to Indiana to face charges. Heffelfinger told the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette that Cain admitted to killing Morrow and that he was helped by the other three suspects. The apparent motive for the killing was a $4,000 debt that Hess owed Morrow. State Police were assisted by the DeKalb County Sheriffs Department, Dekalb County Prosecutors and the County Coroners office during the investigation.

Miller Chosen To Fill LaGrange County Commissioner Vacancy
Thursday, May 28, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - LaGrange County Republican precinct chairpersons needed just one ballot to select Larry Miller from five candidates to be the next county commissioner. Miller has served as a county councilman for the last four years. He received 11 of the 16 votes. No other candidate got more than 2. The field also included Phil Tripi, Joe Clark, Harold Gingerich, and Peter Cook. Miller said he was surprised and flattered to be selected overwhelmingly. Miller takes the position of Commissioner Roger Boots, who passed away recently after a battle with cancer. He says he and Boots met last summer and made the decision to try and swap seats during the next election. Boots' death changed that timetable. His goal as commissioner will be the same as it was on council, to keep the county government in balance. The selection of Miller now creates a vacancy on county council. Another Republican caucus will fill that position, likely in June.

Fire Causes Heavy Damage At Fantail Brewing In Sturgis
Thursday, May 28, 2009

(STURGIS) - No one was injured, but damage was extensive from a fire at the Fantail Brewing Company in Sturgis just after midnight. Sturgis firefighters found heavy smoke coming from the second story and eaves when they arrived. Within minutes flames were coming from several windows on the north side of the building. Sturgis firefighters received mutual aid from Tri Township, White Pigeon and LaGrange fire departments. The building and business are owned by Stan Longstreet. The fire’s cause was undetermined. Sturgis fire investigators expect to go through the debris in an attempt to determine what caused the blaze.

SCCF Honors Scholarship Donors And Recipients
Thursday, May 28, 2009

(FREMONT) - Scholarship donors and recipients were honored last night by The Steuben County Community Foundation during a dinner at the Peace Lutheran Church in Fremont. Despite the tough economic conditions, 43 scholarships were presented this year totaling over $36,000. Lisa Caudill from the Community Foundation said there were over 700 applications submitted for scholarships this year. 20 volunteers spent weeks going over the applications to determine who would get scholarships based on criteria such as economic need and grade point averages.

Gas Prices Spike To $2.65 In Angola
Wednesday, May 27, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Gas prices continued a steady climb yesterday. Another spike of nearly 25 cents around northeast Indiana had motorists grumbling as they dug deeper into their wallets. Gas prices this morning on North Wayne Street in Angola were between $2.59 and $2.65 a gallon after being as low as $2.38 on Tuesday morning. The web site Indianagasprices.com reports the lowest price for gas in the state is $2.29 in Shelbyville while the highest is $2.75 in Muncie. The average price of gas in Indiana has risen 14 cents in the last week and 61 cents in the last month to $2.59 a gallon.

One Arrested After DeKalb County Pursuit
Wednesday, May 27, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A Waterloo reserve officer was injured yesterday while chasing a stolen car suspect in DeKalb County. DeKalb County Sheriff John Dennis says officer Ryan Openlander suffered a bruised hip when he fell on his weapon while chasing the suspect on foot. The suspect was identified as 20-year-old Brandon Sprow of Bryan, Ohio. He was eventually taken into custody after the chase which ended when DeKalb County Police say the stolen car crashed into a tree on County Road 19 near Auburn. Dennis says the pursuit started near County Road 19 and U.S. 6 when an off-duty Kendallville dispatcher recognized the vehicle. After he was arrested, Sprow was booked at the DeKalb County Jail on six charges including three Class D felonies for resisting law enforcment, intimidation to law enforcement and receiving stolen property. DeKalb County Police were assisted by officers from Waterloo and Auburn during the chase and investigation. Openlander is the second northeast Indiana police officer to be injured in the line of duty during the last week. Indiana State Police Trooper Doug Kelly was hurt last Thursday morning while trying to arrest another stolen car suspect north of Hamilton.

Former Auburn Resident Wins Big In Hoosier Lottery
Wednesday, May 27, 2009

(INDIANAPOLIS) - A DeKalb High School graduate now living in Florida returned to Indianapolis yesterday to collect a Hoosier Lottery windfall. Thomas Pittman and his wife, Nadia, collected $777,777 after receiving the winning Super Lucky 7's ticket from his father, Ron Pittman of Auburn. Ron Pittman sent the ticket and some gift cards to the couple as a housewarming gift. Thomas Pittman works as an audio visual manager for a resort near Disney World. He plans to pay off his student loans and use a little bit of the winnings to stimulate the economy. Ron Pittman purchased the ticket at the S&S Express on South Main in Auburn.

Crash Leads to Alcohol Related Charges
Wednesday, May 27, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A pair of Coldwater residents were booked at the Steuben County Jail early this morning following a rollover accident on State Road 127 near 400 North that the Sheriffs Department says was alcohol related. According to a Sheriffs Department report, 22-year-old Dustin Corwin was traveling north in 127 just after midnight when he went off the west side of the road and collided with an earth embankment. The car then rolled over before coming to rest. Corwin complained of head pain. He was booked at the jail on a Class D O.W.I. felony. A passenger, 22-year-old Jessica Herren, suffered an abrasion and was booked on a Class B public intoxication misdemeanor.

Housing Developments Scheduled For Next Angola Plan Commission Meeting
Wednesday, May 27, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A pair of proposed housing developments have been scheduled to come before the Angola Plan Commission during their next meeting on June 8th. Angola City Planner Julie Cole says J.R. Parent is looking to re-zone nearly 60 acres of land on West Harcourt west of Center Lake from agricultural to residential. In addition, Fairhaven Development is scheduled to present a primary plat that night for a 19-lot residential subdivision which will be known as the Villas of Fairhaven. The Fairhaven property would be north of Redding Road between Heather Ridge and Beery Drive and is zoned multiple-family residential. Cole also says O'Reilly Auto Parts is looking to build a store in the 500 block of North Wayne. A primary plat for the store is also scheduled to come before the Angola Plan Commission during what promises to be a busy meeting on June 8th.

Used Syringes Found Near Topeka School
Wednesday, May 27, 2009

(TOPEKA) - Police in LaGrange County say someone is discarding syringes near Topeka Elementary School. The used syringes keep turning up for the past several months. A school crossing guard found the latest syringe discarded near the front of the school this morning. Police aren’t sure what the syringes contained but are submitting them for testing. Anyone with information about the incidents or who finds discarded syringes is asked to call the LaGrange County Sheriff’s Department or the Topeka Police Department.

Two TU Board Members To Be Honored
Wednesday, May 27, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A pair of Trine University board members will be among six who will be inducted next week into the Indiana Academy. The Independent Colleges of Indiana will honor Keith Busse and Ralph Trine for lifetime achievements and contributions to education. Busse is the founder of Steel Dynamics while Trine is the chair and C.E.O. of Vestil Manufacturing in Angola. They will be part of the 39th group selected for the Academy. The induction will take place Monday in Indianapolis during a dinner and symposium

America's Fallen Heroes Remembered on Memorial Day
Tuesday, May 26, 2009

(UNDATED) - While Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, it's also a day to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Ceremonies were held throughout Steuben County on Monday including the annual gathering on the mound in downtown Angola. American Legion 4th District Commander Charles Rathsack said with two wars underway, Americans should pray for those currently in the military and that on this day we should pay tribute to those who have fallen. Other services were held in Pleasant Lake, Fremont and Hamilton. The Orland American Legion plans to hold Memorial Day services this Saturday, May 30th which was the original day fallen veterans were honored.

Williams County Records Ohio's Worst Unemployment Rate
Tuesday, May 26, 2009

(COLUMBUS, OHIO) - Williams County had the worst unemployment rate for the entire state of Ohio during the month of April. The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services announced Tuesday morning the Williams County unemployment rate was 16.3%. Neighboring Defiance County had a jobless rate of 13.5%. The department announced on Friday that Ohio had an unemployment rate in April of 10.2% making it the first month in over a quarter of a century that Ohio has had double-digit unemployment. The gloomy numbers out of the Buckeye State add to the miserable economic conditions in this region where double digit unemployment rates have prevailed in recent months. The State of Indiana announced last week that Steuben County's jobless rate was 15.1%. While that was a drop from March, state officials pointed out recently announced layoffs in the automobile industry and major steel operations took place after employment surveys were conducted for April.

Steuben County United Way Hosting Case Coordination Meeting
Tuesday, May 26, 2009

(ANGOLA) - One item that was mentioned when the Steuben County United Way held its "Unemployment Task Force" meeting several months ago was that there should be better communication between health and service providers in the county. With that in mind, the United Way is hosting a meeting today on how to better coordinate cases and what kind of benefits can be offered to local residents. United Way Executive Director Darci Gaff says such initiatives have taken place in other northern Indiana communities such as Allen County. The task force was organized last winter to help deal with Steuben County's rising unemployment rate.

Hudson Man Identified As Fatal Accident Victim
Tuesday, May 26, 2009

(JACKSON TOWNSHIP) - A Hudson man was identified over the weekend as the victim of a fatal traffic accident which took place last Thursday night in Steuben County's Jackson Township. The Steuben County Sheriff's Department says 28 year old Lucas R. Emrick died from blunt force trauma injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene after his vehicle went off of 600 West near 30 North at about 11:20 Thursday night, crashed into a tree and burst into flames.

DeKalb County Gets FEMA Grant To Buy Flood-Prone Houses
Tuesday, May 26, 2009

(AUBURN) - F.E.M.A. has given DeKalb County nearly a half million dollars to buy six homes susceptible to annual flooding. The funds will be used to remove the homes from the 100-year floodplain, thus returning the area to open space. F.E.M.A. will pay 75 percent of the project costs with DeKalb County and the Maumee River Basin Commission contributing the remaining 25 percent. The Indiana Department of Homeland Security will administer the program.

Deer Blamed For Sunday DeKalb County Wreck
Monday, May 25, 2009

(UNDATED) - Two Angola residents were injured Sunday afternoon in a crash that DeKalb County Police say was caused when the driver swerved to avoid a deer in the road. Police say 68-year-old Milo Sattison was driving a 1999 Chevrolet Blazer on County Road 427 near County Road 52 at about 12:40 when a deer stop in his lane. Sattison swerved to avoid the animal and went off road, struck a culvert to a driveway and became airborne. The vehicle landed on its side and trapped a passenger, 75-year-old Juanita Baughman, inside. Baughman had to be removed by rescue crews. Sattison and Baughman were both taken to DeKalb Memorial Hospital for treatment of their injuries.

Longtime Metz Firefighter Honored
Monday, May 25, 2009

(METZ) - One of the highlights of the holiday weekend in Steuben County was the dedication by the Metz Fire Department of their new and remodeled fire station. Besides the ribbon cutting ceremony, an original member of the Metz Fire Department was honored. John Greenamyer, who has been with the department for 45 years, was presented a plaque by the Indiana Volunteer Firefighter Association. State Senator Dennis Kruse was among those on hand for the ceremony.

Hamilton Woman Wins $200,000 In Powerball
Saturday, May 23, 2009

(INDIANAPOLIS) - A Hamilton woman claimed a $200,000 prize yesterday at Hoosier Lottery Headquarters in Indianapolis from the May 13th Powerball drawing. Ann Roberts was the holder of the Powerball ticket sold at the Meijer Store in Angola that matched five numbers, but not the Powerball number. Roberts says she plays the Hoosier Lottery if the line isn't too long at the grocery store. She and her husband plan to use the money to travel, perhaps to Hawaii. Roberts' numbers were quick pick numbers. If she would have purchased the additional $1 Power Play option, it would have meant a $1 million prize.

Prosecutors File Three Felony Charges Against Alaura
Friday, May 22, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Steuben County Prosecutors have filed three felony charges against a Fremont man following a police pursuit yesterday which led to Indiana State Police Trooper Doug Kelly being injured. 23-year-old Coty Alaura is facing a Class C felony for battery with a deadly weapon after he was accused of throwing a rock at Kelly which hit the trooper in the head. Alaura is also facing Class D felonies for Resisting With a Vehicle and Possession of Methamphetamine. In addition, Prosecutors will seek an Habitual Offender enhancement and they also requested a 15-day hold for a probation violation. Bond for Alaura was set at $100,000 with no 10% allowed during his initial hearing on Friday. His case will go through Steuben Superior Court where a pre-trial conference was scheduled for July 6th and a jury trail was docketed for September 10th. Robert Hardy was appointed as his public defender. State Police Sgt. Ron Galaviz says Kelly and Alaura scuffled as Alaura was taken into custody at a private residence on State Road One south of Metz Road. Hamilton Town Marshall Joe Paterson came to Kelly's aid and used his taser to help place Alaura into custody. Kelly was treated at Cameron Hospital for a large bump on his head and two broken fingers. Alaura is also facing felony burglary and theft charges in DeKalb County. Galaviz says the incident began yesterday morning just south of Hamilton when Alaura allegedly entered an occupied residence with a shotgun and left with the homeowners car.

Dental Records Needed To Identify Driver In Fiery Crash
Friday, May 22, 2009

(JACKSON TOWNSHIP) - It maybe a few days before a positive identification is made on the body of a man who was killed last night when his vehicle crashed into a tree and burst into flames in Steuben County's Jackson Township. Steuben County Sheriffs Department Chief Deputy Kevin Kane says the body was burned beyond recognition and dental records will have to be used to find out who was killed. The crash happened at about 11:20pm on 600 West south of County Road 30 North which is near the Steuben County Tri State Airport. The Sheriffs Department say the driver of a 2006 Dodge Ram 2500 went off the west side of the road and overcorrected. The vehicle then went off the east side of the road, struck a tree head on and burst into flames. The vehicle was burning when the Salem Center Fire Department arrived. The unknown driver was pronounced dead at the scene from blunt force trauma by Steuben County Coroner Rodney Snyder. The Sheriffs Department investigation into the crash is continuing.

Angola Man Injured In Early Morning Wreck
Friday, May 22, 2009

(ANGOLA) - An Angola man was injured early this morning when his minivan rolled over on State Road 127 near the Ramada Inn. The Steuben County Sheriffs Department reports 25-year-old Ronald Dale Shuler was heading north on 127 just south of 400 North at about 1:15am when his vehicle went off the east side of the road. The minivan then rolled over several times ejecting Shuler from the vehicle before it came to rest in a ditch. Shuler was first taken to Cameron Hospital before he was transferred by Lutheran Air to Lutheran Hospital where he is reported to be in fair condition. Sheriffs Department investigators say it does not appear a seat belt was being used at the time of the crash which is still under investigation.

Fremont Farmers Markets Starts Saturday
Friday, May 22, 2009

(FREMONT) - Memorial Day weekend marks the start of the Fremont Farmer's Market. The market will be open every Saturday morning through October 10th from 8:00am until 12:00noon except on July 11th during Musicfest. All market activities will take place in the Fremont Town Park, located on the corner of Bell and Albion Street.

Funeral Services Held For Butler's Mayor
Friday, May 22, 2009

(BUTLER) - Funeral services were held yesterday for Butler Mayor Floyd "Butch" Coburn who died this past Sunday at the age of 65 in a motorcycle accident near Pioneer, Ohio. Coburn was riding with a group of motorcyclists when the accident took place. To accomodate the large gathering of mourners, services were held yesterday in the Eastside High School auditorium. Coburn's passions included riding his motorcycle and part of his funeral procession included a group of motorcyclists.

Memorial Day Observances Schedules
Friday, May 22, 2009

(UNDATED) - Monday is Memorial Day and as usual those who died for their country while serving in the military will be honored and remembered. The Angola American Legion Post 31 will host memorial services in downtown Angola on the mound at 9:00am and at Pleasant Lake Elementary School at 10:00am. In addition, the Angola Legion will host a flag dedication Monday afternoon at 3:00 at Elliot Manor. The Fremont American Legion will have a Memorial Day Parade starting at 11:00am. Services will follow at the Fremont Legion Post. The Hamilton American Legion Memorial Post 467 Parade will be held Monday starting at the public beach at 11:00am. Participants will line up at Brookside Park. The parade will go through downtown Hamilton and continue to the Hamilton cemetary. All vets are welcome. Call Walt Dilley at 488-3358 if your organization is interested. This is a walking parade only. Because of the Memorial Day holiday, all local, state and federal government offices will be closed on Monday and there will be no mail delivery. Trash collection by Waste Management and National Serv-All will be one day behind next week.

End Of School Year Is In Sight
Friday, May 22, 2009

(UNDATED) - Memorial Day weekend means the end of the school year is just a few days away. Providing there are no more make-up days, the last student day in the M.S.D. of Steuben County will be June 3rd. Hamilton students will be dismissed for the summer next Thursday the 28th. The last day of classes in Fremont is June 2nd while Prairie Heights students will be let out for the summer on June 5th. M.S.D. of Steuben County Superintendent Doctor David Goodwin says the Angola High School graduation will take place on June 14th. He said during Tuesday nights school board meeting that they did not want to run into a potential problem in case there were a large number of snow days this year. Graduation in the Prairie Heights and Fremont school districts is scheduled for June 7th. Hamilton seniors will graduate next Friday, May 29th.

Steuben County April Unemployment Drops To 15.1%
Friday, May 22, 2009

(INDIANAPOLIS) - Indiana Workforce Development announced unemployment numbers for the month of April today and while there was some improvement and hope for the future in northeast Indiana, many people are still struggling to find a job. Steuben County's preliminary April unemployment rate was 15.1% which tied Adams County for the fourth highest in the state. But the good news for Steuben County is that it's down from the March rate of 16.5%. Elkhart and LaGrange Counties are still 1-2 in Indiana unemployment rates. Elkhart County was at 17.8% while LaGrange County was right behind at 17.7%. Both of those unemployment rates dropped almost a full percentage point from March. Noble County had the third highest unemployment rate at 16.6% while DeKalb County had the 12th highest rate at 13.4%. Statewide, the Indiana unemployment rate dipped to slightly to 9.9%. Workforce Development Commissioner Teresa Voors is sounding cautious about the lower jobless numbers. She says “Flat unemployment is a positive in this economy, however this number does not fully tell the story”. Voors adds, “Indiana’s April unemployment rate does not reflect recently announced layoffs in the automobile industry and major steel operations due to the timing of our survey." She expects the effect of the automotive decline on Indiana’s unemployment rate will be shown to a greater extent in the next few months.

Gas Main Break Reported Near Trine Campus
Friday, May 22, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Angola firefighters were dispatched to a gas main break this afternoon near Summit and Moss Streets. The break apparently took place at about 3:30 as crews trying to put in a street sign. Several other fire departments have either been sent to the scene or called up on stand by. Those departments include Fremont, Pleasant Lake, Ashley, Salem Center, Hamilton, Metz and Hudson.

Metz Fire Department Dedicating Remodeled Building
Friday, May 22, 2009

(METZ) - The Metz Volunteer Fire Deparment will dedicate their new and remodeled fire station tomorrow during an Open House and Hog Roast. It starts at 2:00 and will go until 6:00. The ribbon cutting ceremony starts at 3:00. A suggested $5 donation is requested for the hog roast. The fire department is located at 2105 South 800 East.

Bluegrass Festival This Weekend In Kendallville

(KENDALLVILLE) - The 33rd Annual Spring Tri-State Bluegrass Festival is being held over the Memorial Day weekend at the Noble County 4-H Fairgrounds in Kendallville. There's food, entertainment, workshops and more. For times, prices, and more information, log onto BluegrassUSA.net or call 432-4485.

"Civil War Days" In Coldwater
Friday, May 22, 2009

(COLDWATER) - "Civil War Days in Branch County" is taking place in Coldwater over the holiday weekend. You will be able to hear and see a host of special events to honor fallen heroes from the Civil War Era to the present day. All events will be held at the Branch County 4-H Fairgrounds. Admission is $5 per vehicle. Veterans and students will be admitted free on Saturday and Sunday.

H1N1 Case Reported In Coldwater
Thursday, May 21, 2009

(COLDWATER) - An elementary school student has become Branch County's first confirmed case of the H1N1 flu virus, otherwise known as the "swine flu". The youngster attends Lincoln Elementary in Coldwater but Coldwater Superintendent Doctor Dale Martin says it could be one of four students who came down with flu-like symptons. No hospitalization was required after what was called a H1N1 case milder than regular flu was confirmed by the Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Health Department. Unlike some other school districts around the country, Martin says the Coldwater School District have no plans to shut down. Notes have been sent home to parents and the affected youngster's school as well as all of the district's busses has been cleaned and disinfected. The entire bus fleet was cleaned since all of the students who came down with flu like symptons ride the bus. Administrators in all of the other district buildings have also been notified and Martin says it's business as usual in the district this mornning. Martin adds parents should watch their children closely and take them to the doctor if they develop any signs of the illness.

Souder Asks Obama To Help Auto Parts Suppliers
Thursday, May 21, 2009

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - Indiana Republican Congressman Mark Souder has asked President Obama to make some changes in a Department of Treasurey program. Souder feels the changes will help auto parts suppliers in light of this summers extended shutdown of several General Motors and Chrysler plants. The $5 billion program designed to provide financial assistance to auto industry companies guarantees a supplier's receivables in exchange for a fee. Souder wants that fee suspended by the President to give parts suppliers additional relief during the summer plant shutdowns. Souder also ask the President in a letter to make indirect suppliers to G.M. and Chrysler eligible for the program. Souder made his requests after meeting with several northeast Indiana suppliers over the past several weeks.

Steuben E.D.C. Plans Excellence in Business Awards
Thursday, May 21, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Steuben County Economic Development Corporation will salute local businesses once again on June 8th. E.D.C. Executive Director Gary Niedlander says their annual Excellence in Business Awards will take place at 7:30 that morning during a breakfast at Trine University's Witmer Clubhouse. The awards are presented to businesses who have invested in Steuben County during 2008. Companies are honored for creating new jobs or retaining them. They are also thanked for adding new equipment as well as for expanding, purchasing or constructing a building. The award program is being hosted by the E.D.C. and the Steuben County Chamber Association. This years sponsors are Indiana Michigan Power, NIPSCO, Steuben County R.E.M.C. and Trine University. E.D.C. Director Gary Nielander says around 40 businesses have been nominated so far. If you want to nominate a business for the award, contact the E.D.C. office at 665-6889.

June Blood Drive To Honor Fallen Police Officers
Thursday, May 21, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Throughout the month of June, the American Red Cross will participate in the statewide Fallen Officer Blood Drive campaign. This is the third year for the campaign in which the American Red Cross will host blood drives across the state of Indiana to honor those who serve and protect our communities. Janice Starnes, whose husband Sergeant Daniel Starnes was killed in the line of duty in 2001, organizes the annual Indiana Fallen Officer Blood Drive. It's hoped over 5,000 pints of blood will be collected around Indiana. You can honor fallen officers by donating blood on June 8th from 12 noon until 6:00pm at the Angola Kids League Bingo Hall at 1409 North Wayne.

New Administrators At Carlin Park and AMS Hired
Wednesday, May 20, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The M.S.D. of Steuben County School Board approved the hiring of two administrators on Tuesday night. Sabrina Fritz was hired as the new principal at Carlin Park Elementary while Rob Bach was named as the new assistant principal and athletic director at Angola Middle School. Fritz comes to Angola from the Concord School District. She will take over for John Maurer who is retiring at the end of the school year. Bach comes to the Angola Middle School from the Jimtown School District. With Bill Church retiring as the Middle School principal, current assistant principal and A.D. Ann Rice will take over that job in the fall. In other business, the board heard a report from Food Services Director Stephanie Haynes-Clifford on a U.S.D.A. summer lunch program which will be available to all Steuben County children between the ages of one and 18 starting on June 10th. The program is being funded by the federal government and it's designed to help struggling famalies during these tough economic times. Sack lunches will be available at Carlin Park Elementary from 11:15 until 12:00noon each weekday through August 12th. Hot items will be served on different days. Assistant Superintendent Brent Wilson also reported that enrollment declined by 142 students since last September leaving the district with 2,839 students. He called the decrease an area of concern.

New Prairie Heights Football Coach Hired
Wednesday, May 20, 2009

(BRUSHY PRAIRIE) - Prairie Heights High School now officially has its new Head Varsity Football Coach. Jason Porter was hired as coach and middle school athletic director at last night's Prairie Heights school board meeting. Porter coached last season at LaVille High School and has eight years of football coaching experience. He thanked the board last night and said he is looking forward to being a part of the school and the community. In other business, the board approved the 2009-2010 school calendar that had been presented at the previous meeting. Also approved unanimously was a summer fundraising program for the Prairie Heights Drama Club. Drama Director Corrine Reed says the program will be called "Pirates on Pigeon." Nearly a half dozen drama club members will dress and act as pirates, vikings and Indians and confront those canoeing on the Pigeon River. The idea, which was developed by Mongo's Angelo Petitti, is to draw more people to the community. The program will take place every weekend through the summer. Money raised through "Pirates on Pigeon" will go to the Prairie Heights Drama Department.

Investigators Think Youngster May Have Started Branch County Barn Fire
Wednesday, May 20, 2009

(BETHEL TOWNSHIP) - The Branch County Sheriffs Department and Bronson Fire officials are investigating a barn fire which broke out this morning on West Central Road in Bethel Township which may have been caused by a youngster. Bronson Fire Chief Brent Wilber says a heavy-set boy about 11 or 12 years old was seen in the area of the barn on Tuesday evening. The fire on property owned by Charlotte Duncan was reported by a passerby just after 7:00. The barn was fully engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived. They were able to get the blaze under control in about 20 minutes and were able to save a nearby van and mobile home. No injuries were reported. Damage was estimated at $12,000.

Loverde Speaks At Women's Business Forum
Wednesday, May 20, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The author of three best-selling books gave the keynote address on how to balance ones life this morning during a Women's Business Forum on the Trine University campus. Even though the day long forum was geared towards women, Mary Loverde told those gathered in the Fabiani Theatre that no matter your gender, you have to find ways to live a joyful life. She said people should enjoy the fine things and we should not leave as a legacy a stack of "to do" lists with everything crossed off. She also mixed in some humor during her talk. Loverde has appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show, ABC World News Tonight and 20/20. The Women's Business Forum was hosted by Trine University, the city of Angola and SCORE.

High Water Levels Reported On Gilead Lake
Wednesday, May 20, 2009

(COLDWATER) - With Memorial Day weekend and the start of the boating season upon, Branch County Sheriff Warren Canon says there is at least one lake in his county where the water is high. With water levels high on Gilead Lake, Canon reminds boaters that under Michigan law, they are responsible for any damage to life or property that is caused by a wake or swell created by the negligent or propulsion of the vessel. Canon is asking boaters to be considerate of the property surrounding the lakes this weekend and all summer long.

LaGrange Habitat For Humanity Gets Good News On Two Fronts
Wednesday, May 20, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - Sometimes good news comes in pairs. LaGrange County Habitat for Humanity has received word that its application for a Self-help Homeownership Opportunity grant for over $27,000 had been approved. 25% of the grant is a loan thus making potential building sites more affordable for partner families. The grant will be used locally to purchase sites in the Wolcottville or LaGrange area. An environmental review is being completed for each site. Partner famalies are being sought for the two homes which are scheduled to be built in 2009 and 2010. Those who wish to apply should call 463-8519. Meanwhile, LaGrange County Habitat for Humanity learned this week that its most recent home which was completed in March has been awarded its first ever “energy star” rating by Energy Chek which is an energy rating company from Kalamazoo. Habitat plans to use this home as a model for future builds.

Head Start Changing Names On June 1st
Tuesday, May 19, 2009

(FREMONT) - The Head Start program that serves Steuben and LaGrange Counties will be undergoing a name change in the not-to-distant future. After being known as Vistula Head Start since the early 90's, Director Susan Swager says they will be known as "Fremont Community Schools-Head Start" starting on June 1st. Swager says Fremont Community Schools has been the program's grantee since 1965 when the program first came about. It was changed to Vistula Head Start when they began serving LaGrange County. Swager says recent developments on the federal level led to the change back to their grantee name. She says the change will not affect any of their services. Swager adds applications for enrollment have gone up due in part to tough economic times. For the next school year starting in September, they have gotten over 280 applications for 187 funded slots. Swager says available funds could allow them to expand services over the next couple of years.

SWCD To Get Grant For Second Phase Of Pigeon Creek Watershed Plan
Tuesday, May 19, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Barring anything out of the ordinary from the nations captial, the Steuben County Soil and Water Conservation District may get approval later this year for funding on the second phase of the Pigeon Creek Watershed Management Plan. The District's Kayleen Hart says although they are still awaiting federal E.P.A. approval, the Indiana Department of Enviromental Management has prepared the grant contract agreement. Hart says that unless the E.P.A. pulls the funding, the grant funding will begin in November. The total I.D.E.M. grant will be $145,800 with a local match of $97,200 bringing the total cost of the project to $243,000. Phase two of the project will focus on installing rain gardens and green roofs as part of the downtown Angola revitalization project.

Hickman Updates EDC On Univertical
Tuesday, May 19, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Angola Mayor Dick Hickman told the Steuben County Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors on Tuesday afternoon that everything continues to move forward on the clean up of the former Dana-Weatherhead site. Hickman said there are still some minor details that have to be worked out concerning Univertical's payment. It was first thought Univertical could pay $1.2 million to IDEM over ten years but Hickman said that is not the case. The Mayor said negotiations are going on with IDEM but he feels after everything that he and company President Chuck Walker have gone through over the last couple of years, this matter will not stop the clean up process. He added Univertical is moving forward on a couple of fronts that will hopefully lead to the hiring of another 40 employees in Angola. E.D.C. Executive Director Gary Nielander also mentioned during Tuesdays board meeting that Ashley is still in contention for a distribution site which could mean hundreds of new jobs. The company looking at the site is expected to make a final decision by the fall of 2010.

Tree Cutting Accident Kills Angola Man
Tuesday, May 19, 2009

(FREMONT) - An Angola man was killed Monday afternoon when a tree fell on him while he was helping his friend cut it down at a residence on 400 North. Steuben County Coroner Rodney Snyder says 55-year-old Paul Schoner was declared dead at the scene. The cause of death was listed as blunt force trauma. The incident happened at about 5:00pm. Steuben County Sheriffs Department Detective Dale Murray investigated the incident and told the Herald-Republican it was an accident.

Preston Gets 57 Months to 15 Years In DJ Frank Death
Tuesday, May 19, 2009

(COLDWATER) - A Quincy man charged with the beating death of a local D.J. was given a prison sentence of between 57 months and 15 years on Monday in Branch County Circuit Court. 33-year-old Christopher Preston was sentenced after he pled no contest to a manslaughter charge last month in connection with last Septembers death of 41 year old John Franklin McConnell. Under Michigan law, 15 years is the maximum sentence for such a crime. McConnell was a D.J. at one time at Piggy's Sports Bar in Angola and was known professionally as D.J. Frank. Preston was originally charged with murder last September after McConnell died from his injuries eight days after he was beaten. Branch County authorities say the beating took place after Preston and McConnell had gotten into an argument in a Coldwater bar about Preston's estranged wife. She and McConnell had been dating for almost a year.

Foley Waives Circuit Court Arraignment
Tuesday, May 19, 2009

(COLDWATER) - A man charged with shooting his wife to death last February waived his Branch County Circuit Court arraignment on Monday. A formal not guilty plea was entered on behalf of 41-year-old Tom Foley. Status conference and trial dates will be scheduled at a later time. A trial may not take place until sometime this fall. In the meantime, Foley is lodged without bond in the Branch County Jail. Foley was bound over for trial two weeks ago in connection with the February 7th shooting death of his wife Dee Dee following a preliminary exam in Branch County District Court.

Commissioners Trim $87,000 from budget
Tuesday, May 19, 2009

(ANGOLA) - With Steuben County facing a budget shortfall of nearly $1 million, everybody in county government has been told to tighten the belt. That includes Steuben County Commissioners as they approved a $78,000 cut from their budget Monday morning for care of patients and inmates at the County Jail. Another $9,000 was trimmed from the maintenance line item. All department heads have been told to get their proposed cuts to County Auditor Pam Coleman by Friday. The Steuben County Council will then go over the proposed cuts on May 28th. Meanwhile, Coleman is asking taxpayers to not make payments until they get their statements. Unlike in the past when estimated payments were accepted when statements were late, Coleman says changes in supplemental homestead has made a big difference in taxes for some persons. She said it would be more difficult and expensive to do refunds than to wait a couple of weeks for bills to arrive.

City Council Passes Kinney Vacation Ordinance on Second Reading
Tuesday, May 19, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The second reading of an ordinance that will vacate Kinney between Moss and Park was approved Monday night by the Angola City Council but everything has not been ironed out between the city and Trine University. The university wants two blocks of Kinney vacated so green space can be put in. In passing the ordinance on second reading, the Council agreed to remove restrictions from it. The restrictions are now included in an agreement between the city and Trine. Part of the agreement calls for Trine to build a fire lane to serve all of the resident halls in the area. Council Member Dave Martin said there was still one issue that had to be resolved before the ordinance is approved on third reading. Martin said a fraternity on Kinney must deed the property to the university and that a letter of intention has to be presented to city officials. In addition, the Council approved a Traffic Commission recommendation to lower the speed limit on Summit between Park Avenue and West Maumee down to 25 miles an hour. In another traffic-related matter, the Council approved a recommendation from the Traffic Commission to set a 35 mile per hour speed limit on Shoup Street from U.S. 20 south to the city limits.

Sanders Given Five Years for Cocaine Possession
Tuesday, May 19, 2009

(ANGOLA) - An Angola man who was originally charged with a pair of Class A felonies almost two years ago in a cocaine case was given a five year sentence in Steuben Superior Court on Monday. 33-year-old Ray Brian Sanders pled guilty last month to a Class C felony for possession of cocaine. In exchange for his guilty plea, two class A felonies for dealing in cocaine were dropped by prosecutors. Sanders also was given credit for almost two years already served in jail. When figured in with good time credit, Sanders got credit for 1,406 days already served.

Corunna Man Enters Plea In Sex Case
Tuesday, May 19, 2009

(ANGOLA) - After some confusion, a Corunna man entered into a plea bargain agreement with prosecutors Monday morning in Steuben Superior Court. 19-year-old Colton Lee Mason pled guilty to a Class C felony of sexual misconduct with a minor. In exchange for the guilty plea, a more serious Class B felony of child molesting would be dismissed if Judge William Fee accepts the plea bargain. Sentencing was scheduled for June 15th. At first, Judge Fee was not going to accept the plea agreement because Mason seemed confussed when his lawyer questioned him about the alleged incident. Authorities say the alleged victim in the case is a 15-year-old girl. But things got straightened out eventually in court yesterday and the plea agreement was allowed to proceed. Mason was scheduled to go on trial June 4th.

Auburn Man Arrested On Four Child Molesting Charges
Tuesday, May 19, 2009

(AUBURN) - DeKalb County Police arrested an Auburn man Monday on four Class C child molesting felony counts in connection with alleged incidents that authorities say took place while he was babysitting a youngster in his home. 54-year-old John Zent was arrested on a warrant issued by DeKalb Superior Court. He was later released on his own recognizance. Authorities say the alleged victim in the case is a six-year-old child.

"Pirates On Pigeon" Idea Floated to LaGrange County Commissioners
Tuesday, May 19, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - In an effort to bring tourists to Mongo, the LaGrange County Commissioners gave their support to an idea Monday from a local resident. Angelo Petitti is backing a summer program involving Prairie Heights drama club students on Fridays and Saturdays in which they would dress up as pirates and interact with canoeists on the Pigeon River. The Commissioners agreed to donate $6,900 from the riverboat gambling fund to help get the "Pirates on Pigeon" program off the ground. The Prairie Heights School Board is scheduled to take action tonight on the project.

Caucus Set To Fill LaGrange County Commission Seat
Tuesday, May 19, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - A Republican caucus to fill the vacancy on the LaGrange County Commission created by the recent death of Roger Boots will be held next Wednesday night. LaGrange County Republican Party Chair Bob Murphy says the caucus will be held at the Lakeland High School Media Center starting at 7:00. Interested candidates have until 7:00 Sunday night to declare their intentions. Whoever is chosen will serve out the balance of Boots' term which expires in December of 2012. His district covers the southern part of LaGrange County.

Butler Mayor Killed in Ohio Motorcycle Accident
Monday, May 18, 2009

(PIONEER, OHIO) - Butler Mayor Floyd Coburn was killed yesterday afternoon when his motorcycle crashed into another on U.S. 20 just west of State Route 15 in Pioneer, Ohio. The Ohio State Highway Patrol reports the 65-year-old Coburn and another motorcycle driven by 58-year-old Michael Wasson of Butler were both heading west at about 3:15 as they were among a group of motorcyclists traveling on U.S. 20. Troopers say Wasson swerved to avoid a motorcycle that was slowing down. Coburn then struck the Wasson cycle after failing to maintain an assured clear distance. Coburn's motorcycle went off the side of the road and rolled over. Coburn was ejected off of his motorcycle and was pronounced dead at the scene. Wasson was not injured. Both men were wearing their motorcycle helmets. It was one of two fatal motorcycle accidents in northwest Ohio over the weekend. The Highway Patrol reports 68-year-old Dennis Jones of Defiance was killed late Saturday afternoon when his motorcycle overturned on State Route 18 at Harris Road in Defiance County. Jones was pronounced dead at the scene after being ejected from the motorcycle. Troopers say he was wearing a helmet.

Angola WWTP Reports 5th C.S.O. of '09
Monday, May 18, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Friday's rainfall led to the 5th combined sewer overflow of 2009 at the Angola Wastewater Treatment Plant. Wastewater Superintendent Craig Williams says the total outfall was just under 57,000 gallons. He says the event started just after 11:00 Friday night and ended at 2:45 Saturday morning. Waters downstream from the plant maybe affected for up to 72 hours after an C.S.O.. The plant measured 1.21 inches of rain between 3:00 Friday afternoon and just before noon on Saturday. Other areas of Steuben County measured two inches of rain.

Crime Stoppers Want Info On Stolen Cycle
Monday, May 18, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Steuben County Crime Stoppers are looking for information regarding a stolen motorcycle. Coordinator Shari Dean says a black 2005 Harley Davidson night train motorcycle was stolen from the parking lot of R.R. Donnelly on West Mill Street in Angola sometime between 10:00 on Thursday night and 6:00 on Friday morning. If you have information on this crime or any other crime, call Crime Stoppers at 668-STOP or 1-800-600-HALT. You don't have to give your name and your tip could lead to a cash reward of up to $1,000.

The Moving Vietnam Memorial Wall
Monday, May 18th, 2009

(Undated) – Monday is the last for viewing of The Moving Vietnam Memorial Wall in Coldwater, MI. The Vietnam Veterans of American Chapter 730 in Branch County, Michigan has hosted the wall exclusively in the tri-state area for the last week. The Moving Vietnam Memorial Wall from May 13th until May will be displayed in Coldwater, Michigan at Heritage Park. The Moving Wall is a replica of the Vietnam Veterans National Memorial, "The Wall," which is located in Washington D.C.

Autopsy Confirms Shooting Death of Butler Man
Sunday, May 17, 2009

(WATERLOO) - Results of an autopsy conducted over the weekend confirmed a DeKalb County flea market merchant was shot to death on Friday. The body of 63-year-old Raymond Edward Morrow of Butler was found by a customer at about 1:45pm in his flea market at the Walker-Rowe airport near Waterloo. State Police Detective Mark Heffelfinger told the Star that the autopsy revealed Morrow was shot multiple times. Indiana State Police say the motive for the shooting is not known but there is speculation a robbery took place. The killer is still at large. If anyone has information on this crime, call Indiana State Police at 800-552-0976 or DeKalb County Police at 925-3365.

Ground Broken For New St. Anthonys Church
Sunday, May 17, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Members of the St. Anthony Catholic Church congregation gathered in the church parking lot on Sunday morning as ground was broken for a new church at the corner of West Maumee and North Kinney. Nearly $3.5 million has been raised over the last four years through contributions and pledges. Church Pastor Father Fred Pasche blessed the ground where the church will be built with holy water and prayed no one would get hurt during its construction. Dan Lepley, who helped spearhead the fundraising, thanked those who helped make the new church possible. He said it was an historic day for the church and Angola. It's hoped construction of the new church will be finished by next Easter.

New Lakeland High School Principal Named
Sunday, May 17, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - The Lakeland School Board approved the hiring of Eva Merkel on Saturday afternoon as the new principal at Lakeland High School. Superintendent Risa Herber said Merkel has been an administrator for the past 11 years, mostly in the East Allen County school district. She graduated from St. Mary of the Woods College in Terre Haute and earned her masters from I.P.F.W.. Assistant Principal Jim Blake has served as interim principal since the resignation of Patrick Boles in March. The vacancy came as school officials consider a possible transition of Lakeland High School to a New Tech school model.

Harold's Staying Open, Preferred in LaGrange and Wysong in Cromwell Closing
Saturday, May 16, 2009

(UNDATED) - Harold's Chevrolet in Angola, Ben Davis Chevrolet in Auburn and Shepherds Pontiac-Buick-GMC in Kendallville were among northeast Indiana G.M. dealerships that survived Friday's cut by the company but at least two dealerships in northeast Indiana are among the 1,100 around the country that will be shutting down in October of 2010. The News-Sun reports Preferred Chevrolet-Pontiac in LaGrange and Bob Wysong Chevrolet-Pontiac in Cromwell were notified by G.M. they will lose the company's franchises in 17 months. The move by G.M. comes a day after Chrysler announced the termination of just under 800 dealerships. No Chrysler dealers in northeast Indiana were being terminated. Both G.M. and Chrysler are cutting dealerships as part of their restructuring plans. Unlike Chrysler, General Motors does not plan to release a list of the dealerships that are being terminated.

Butler Man Found Shot To Death At Waterloo Airport
Saturday, May 16, 2009

(WATERLOO) - What has already been a violent week in our area has gotten even worse. A Butler man was found shot to death Friday afternoon at a flea market in the Walker-Rowe Airport main building near Waterloo following an apparent robbery. As of late Friday night, police were still trying to find a suspect. The shooting victim was identified as 63-year-old Raymond Edward Morrow who was a merchant in the flea market. Indiana State Police Sergeant Ron Galaviz says police were called to the airport in the 4500 block of U.S. 6 at about 2:00 when a customer at the flea market found Morrow lying on the floor. He was pronounced dead at the scene from an apparent gunshot wound. State Police are leading the investigation with assistance from DeKalb County authorities. Galaviz says no information is being released as far as a motive is concerned although Fort Wayne television stations report a robbery may have taken place. An autopsy on Morrow is scheduled to be held at 2:00 on Saturday afternoon. Anyone with information on the crime is asked to call Indiana State Police at 1-800-552-0976 or DeKalb County Police at 925-3365.

Culver Honored At Steuben GOP Lincoln Day Dinner
Saturday, May 16, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Former Steuben County Republican Party Chair Tony Culver was surprised Friday night during the party's annual Lincoln Day dinner at the Glendarin Golf Club. Culver was presented with an award for his 14 years as the party chair by current chair Suzi Weicht. He also received a book from last years Republican National Convention. Culver urged the party faithful to get behind the new G.O.P. leadership in Steuben County. Indiana Attorney General Greg Zoeller was the guest speaker and he used part of his speech to talk about his efforts to stop illegal, pre-recorded phone solicitations which are known as robocalls. Zoeller filed suit this week against Transcontinental Warranty Incorporated after consumers complained about receiving pre-recorded “robo-calls” from the company offering extended auto-warranty service contracts. The suit was filed in Marion County Superior Court. Those attending the dinner included State Senators Dennis Kruse and Marlin Stutzman, former State Senator Bob Meeks and State Representative Dick Dodge.

SLRWD Board Passes Orland Rate Ordinance
Friday, May 15, 2009

(FLINT) - After years of talks and planning, the Orland sewer project is about ready to become a reality. The Steuben Lakes Regional Waste District Board approved a rate ordinance on third and final reading last night for the sewer project that will include the town of Orland and the area around Wall and Brown Lakes. There have been concerns raised about some Orland residents not being able to afford paying the $75.50 monthly rate. But Board Chair Bill Heckley and District Superintendent Tim Frederick ran down figures from the latest census on median wages in the area that they felt disputed that argument. Frederick said the household median income for Orland was higher than Angola and LaGrange. Heckley added seven or eight nearby towns have sewer systems. The board also passed a resolution which authorizes the district to send out letters to those who do not sign easements for the Orland project. The letters will explain what steps the district plans to follow including the possibility of legal action if a dispute is not settled. Two district employees were honored last night. Lisa Hankey was presented with the Bonna Burns Bookkeeping Award by Odetta Cross Cadwell, who is the executuive director of Indiana Rural Water Association. In addition, lab technician Jamie Platt accepted the Aqua Aerobic System Incorporated plant performance of the year award on behalf of the district.

LaGrange County Dodge, Dunhams Not Affected By Chrysler Restructuring
Friday, May 15, 2009

(UNDATED) - No northeast Indiana Chrysler dealerships will be forced to shut their doors during Chrysler's restructuring. That includes Dunham Chrysler Dodge Jeep in Angola, Auburn Chrysler Dodge Jeep and LaGrange County Dodge in LaGrange. LaGrange County Dodge General Manager Mike Helmkamp says there have been many sleepless nights in the past 60 days but with their dealership status now secured they’re moving forward as Chrysler reshapes itself.

Angola Man Arrested In DeKalb County Sex Crime Investigation
Friday, May 15, 2009

(AUBURN) - The DeKalb County Sheriff's Department reports they arrested two suspects yesterday, including an Angola man, on warrants for alleged sex related crimes. 26-year-old Levi G. Tink of Angola was arrested on a Class B felony charge of sexual misconduct with a minor. Investigators say the alleged victim in the case is 14-year-old. Tink was being held in the DeKalb County Jail this morning on a $20,000 bond. Authorities also arrested 54-year-old Lane Andrews of Garrett on a Class C felony of child molesting. He was later released on a $3,000 bond. Police say the alleged victim in that case is under 14.

Don Harter Funeral Services Announced
Thursday, May 14, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Funeral services for former Angola High School coach and athletic director Don Harter will be held next Tuesday morning at 11:00 at St. Michael Catholic Church near Waterloo. Father Fred Pasche will be officiating. Visitation will be at the Weicht Funeral Home in Angola on Monday from 2:00 until 4:00 and from 6:00 until 8:00. Visitation will also be held at St. Michaels next Tuesday morning at 10:00. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be directed to the Frontier Animal Society in Newport, Vermont or to the Steuben County Humane Society. Harter passed away at the age of 60 on Monday in Irasburg, Vermont where he was working as a high school principal. He retired from the M.S.D. of Steuben County in 2004 after 30 years of service.

Waltmire Facing Voluntary Manslaughter Charges
Thursday, May 14, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - A LaGrange man who allegedly shot two men to death last weekend during a drug dispute now faces two Class A felony counts of voluntary manslaughter and a Class D marijuana possession felony. Prosecutors filed the new charges against 25-year-old Cory Waltmire on Wednesday afternoon in LaGrange Superior Court. The manslaughter charges result from the deaths of 24-year-old Shaun Zimmerman of Angola and 26-year-old Jason Smith of Fort Wayne. The two Class A felony charges carry maximum prison sentences of 50 years. A probable cause affidavit alleges Waltmire shot Smith four times with three of the bullets striking him in the torso and the fourth in the head. Investigators claim he then turned the gun on Zimmerman as he entered through a back door, striking him twice in the torso. The three had arrived at the residence in LaGrange after Smith and Zimmerman beat Waltmire at a junkyard near Angola over some marijuana that Smith claimed Waltmire had stolen from him. Officers found nearly two pounds of marijuana in the garage at 203 West Central Avenue. One of the elements of voluntary manslaughter is the allegation that Waltmire acted in “sudden heat”. According to detectives, Waltmire told them he felt “really mad” about getting beat up.

Steuben's Population Holds Steady, Gets Older
Thursday, May 14, 2009

(UNDATED) - While Steuben County showed no increase in population between 2000 and 2008, the population in neighboring northeast Indiana counties went up. Estimated figures released today by the U.S. Census Bureau show Steuben County's 2008 population was 33,368. The population in LaGrange County went up six percent to over 37,000 residents, Noble County's population jumped three percent to over 47,000 and DeKalb County went up four percent to over 41,000. Northeast Indiana is also getting older as the median age increased in all four counties. The 2008 median age in Steuben county was 37.9 years, which was up from the 2000 median age of 35.5. The 2008 population for all 11 counties in northeast Indiana totaled over 751,000 residents. Nine of the 11 counties saw an increase in population.

Electric Pickup Trucks Expected To Be Produced in Elkhart County
Thursday, May 14, 2009

(WAKARUSA) - (AP) - A recreational vehicle company plans a joint project with an electric engine maker in northern Indiana to begin producing what they say would be the first light-duty electric pickup truck. Executives from Gulf Stream Coach and Electric Motors Corporation announced the project Thursday in the Elkhart County town of Wakarusa. The companies said they planned to invest more than $80 million on building renovations and equipment for factories in Wakarusa and nearby Nappanee, where Gulf Stream is based. The companies estimate the project could have 1,600 workers by 2012. The area has been hard-hit by the collapse of the RV industry, with Elkhart County's unemployment rate reaching 18.8 percent for March.

Branch County Records Third Murder of 2009
Thursday, May 14, 2009

(COLDWATER) - Branch County has recorded its third murder of 2009. The Branch County Sheriffs Department reported on Thursday morning that 62-year-old Duane Finney of Coldwater, whose body was found in a car south of Coldwater on Tuesday morning, was shot to death. After an autopsy was conducted at Blodgett Hospital in Grand Rapids, Finney's death was ruled an homicide caused by a gunshot wound from a medium caliber handgun. Finney was found dead in a car registered to his family that wound up in a field near to the Skate Ranch, almost 500 feet from the intersection of Old 27 and Garfield Roads. The Sheriffs Department was called just after 7:00 on Tuesday morning when a nearby property owner saw the car near some storage buildings. Finney's wife told WWMT-TV in Kalamazoo on Tuesday that he left their Parkview Estates home at around 4:30 that morning to travel to his job in Litchfield. She said his shift started at 6:00 but he never arrived at work. No suspects are in custody and a motive for the killing is not known. Michigan State Police from the Coldwater Post and the State Police Crime Lab assisted the Sheriffs Department with the investigation.

Dana Lays Off 115 in Fort Wayne
Thursday, May 14, 2009

(FORT WAYNE) - (AP) - A union leader says Dana Holding Corporation has laid off nearly half of the employees at its Fort Wayne axle plant, due to the temporary shutdown of Chrysler plants. United Steelworkers Local 903 president Denny Leazier says 115 of the plant's 280 employees were notified that they would be idled. He said the workers should know by July 1 whether they would be called back to work. The Fort Wayne factory makes parts for Jeep Grand Cherokees and
Wranglers.

Vietnam Memorial Wall In Coldwater Through Sunday
Thursday, May 14, 2009

(COLDWATER) - The Vietnam Veterans of American Chapter 730 in Branch County is hosting an exclusive showing of the The Moving Vietnam Memorial Wall through Sunday at Coldwater's Heritage Park. The Moving Wall is a replica of the Vietnam Veterans National Memorial which is located in Washington D.C.. The Branch County veterans group is a non-profit organization. They managed to bring the Moving Wall to Coldwater thanks to fundraising efforts in the community.

Moss Street Work Scheduled to Start Monday
Thursday, May 14, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Angola City Engineer Bill Boyer says work on the Moss Street Reconstruction Project is expected to begin this Monday. Fleming Excavating of Decatur will be performing the work on Moss between Summit and South Kinney after they were the successfull bidder at just under $200,000. Work is scheduled to be finished by the middle of August or just before fall classes begin at Trine University. Boyer says the existing pavement on Moss will be replaced and there will also be new curb and gutters. Woodard Street pavement will also be removed from Moss going north to the first alley. Water and gas mains on Moss and Woodard will need to be lowered to accommodate the work. Water and gas service may be temporarily interrupted but residents will be notified prior to the interruption.

Gilead Township Trash Fire Consumes Mobile Homes, Cars and Tires
Wednesday, May 13, 2009

(BRONSON) – An illegal trash fire did some major damage in Branch County’s Gilead Township late last night. Bronson Fire Chief Brent Wilber says his department was called to 899 Steffey Road just before midnight. When they arrived, Wilber reports fire crews found an area approximately 150 feet by 75 feet engulfed in flames, including three mobile homes, seven cars and several semi loads of material including tires. The Lakeland Fire Department was called in for mutual aid and the two crews were able to bring the fire under control around 1:30am. Fire investigators say the blaze started as an illegal trash fire on the property, which is owned by Herbert Demeritt. Damage estimates are undetermined at this time. Wilber says the Branch County Sheriff’s Department will issue a ticket for the burning of illegal material. Both the Bronson and Lakeland Fire Departments will request restitutions for the Class A foam used on the fire and for other expenses.

Angola, Orland and Butler Get C.F.F. Grant Money
Wednesday, May 13, 2009

(UNDATED) - Lt. Governor Becky Skillman has announced that Angola, Orland and Butler are among 26 communities in Indiana which will get Community Focus Fund grants totaling over $11 million. The city of Angola has gotten another $500,000 grant for its downtown revitalization project. Orland will get over $327,000 for its downtown revitalization while Butler will get $600,000 for stormwater system improvements. The grants are funded by the federal Community Development Block Grant program, which is administered by the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs. Angola Mayor Dick Hickman says the money will mainly be used for sidewalks on the downtown square. City Planner Julie Cole says these funds will be used for the replacement of sidewalks, construction of curbs and curb extensions, and the construction of landscape and sidewalk islands in the four quadrants of the downtown square. This is the second $500,000 grant Angola has gotten for its downtown project. Grants are awarded through a competitive application process.

Steuben County Faces Budget Shortfall
Wednesday, May 13, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Steuben County department heads will have to cut 3% from their 2009 appropriated budgets after the Indiana Department of Local Government Finance determined the County has a budget shortfall of nearly $1 million. County Auditor Pam Coleman told the County Council on Tuesday morning that over $321,000 in the County general fund budget will have to be cut to help get the 2009 spending plan down to just over $11 million. The budget also took a hit from dropping interest rates. Instead of getting $500,000 in interest, the county will only get about $18,000. Council member Linda Hansen said changes in school funding have been a factor as well. Coleman explained that the Highway Department budget has to be trimmed by $268,000 and there also has to be a $75,000 cut for local streets and roads. Department heads will have to submit proposed cuts to Coleman by May 22nd. The County Council will then go over the budget during a special meeting on May 28th.

SLRWD Holds Orland Project Rate Hearing
Wednesday, May 13, 2009

(ORLAND) - About 25 people were on hand Tuesday night as the Steuben Lakes Regional Waste District conducted a half hour public hearing at the Orland American Legion Post on a proposed rate ordinance for a sewer project that will include the town of Orland along with nearby Wall and Brown Lakes. Three Wall Lake residents spoke in favor of the project saying it was needed due to past septic problems. Wall Lake Association President Richard Springer said they have not been able to flush their toilets whenever it rained. Those who spoke against the rate ordinance were not happy about paying a monthly sewer bill of $75.50. Ardis Baad of Orland felt the town's low income residents would have trouble meeting expenses and she was concerned the rates would go higher. The Waste District Board is scheduled to take final action on the rate ordinance Thursday night. If it is passed, District Superintendent Tim Frederick said work could begin on May 28th. Frederick pointed out there are loans and grants available for those who qualify. Board President Bill Heckley also urged those who will be served by the project to get their easements signed as soon as possible.

Four Northridge Students Arrested For Bomb Threats
Wednesday, May 13, 2009

(MIDDLEBURY) - Two Northridge High School students and two Northridge Middle School girls were arrested following an investigation into a pair of bomb threats. All four students were suspended pending expulsion proceedings. The boys, ages 16 and 17, allegedly made threats against police officers, at least one administrator, as well as making a general statement of violence at the school during a bomb threat April 17. The middle school girls allegedly made a threat written in a bathroom last Thursday. All four students went before a juvenile magistrate. The boys were taken to juvenile detention on Thursday, and the magistrate has ordered one to 24-hour home supervision and the other to electronic monitoring. The girls faced the magistrate yesterday. One was remanded to custody at juvenile detention, while the other was placed on 24-hour home supervision. The cases were investigated by Patrolmen Rich Matteson and Don Cramer, school resource officers for the Elkhart County Sheriff’s Department.

Fremont Town Council Asked To Look Into Moving Sewer Line
Wednesday, May 13, 2009

(FREMONT) - The Fremont Town Council was asked last night to consider moving a defective sewer line that runs from State Road 120 to the wastewater treatment plant. It's one of several options being looked at by town officials but moving it is also the most expensive of those options. Last nights request was taken under advisement by the Town Council after it was made by a representative of a landowner and a farmer. Andy Dodzik from D.L.Z. Engineering said last month the line was in poor shape. Options for fixing it include the installation of a pump station with a force main to the plant. Wastewater Superintendent Jim Humbarger expects the project will cost about $200,000 before it's done.

BPW Approves Connection Fee Credit For Garman
Wednesday, May 13, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Angola Board of Public Works and Safety approved a utility connection fee credit for Garman Properties on Wednesday morning of over $12,000. Steve Garman's company is in the process of renovating the old Honer Manufacturing Building on East Harcourt near North Wayne. A Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant is scheduled to open there sometime in the future. The issue over the connection fee centered around an existing inch and a half meter. Garman Properties has owned the property since 2005 and Garman said there has been no water at the building since February of 2008 due to the renovation work. He felt he did not have to pay another connection fee. After further discussion, B.P.W. members decided to give Garman the credit. In other business, the B.P.W. approved the hiring of Chris Manahan, Morgan Snyder and Jeremiah Nicely as part time firefighters. Bill Harter from the Angola Fire Department said the application process started two months ago. The Board also approved guidelines for a non-reverting police operation fund. The money from that fund will be used as "buy money" in sting operations and be managed by the Assistant Chief. Audits will take place quarterly.

Wible Considers Additional Charges Against Waltmire
Tuesday, May 12, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - It may be Wednesday before we learn if a LaGrange man will face additional charges in the shooting deaths of two men who allegedly beat and threatened him over a drug deal. An employee in LaGrange Superior Court said yesterday’s probable cause hearing for 25-year-old Cory Waltmire of LaGrange was a closed hearing. Waltmire is currently charged with felony possession of marijuana. LaGrange County Prosecutor Jeff Wible planned to ask a judge for an enhanced bond for Waltmire. Wible and his two deputy prosecutors met with detectives from the LaGrange County Sheriff’s Department and the LaGrange Town Marshal earlier Monday afternoon at the scene of the shooting to better visualize how the incident might have happened. The prosecutor hoped to get Waltmire’s bond high enough to keep him in jail while he determines if a homicide charge is warranted. 24-year-old Shaun Zimmerman of Angola died Saturday at Parkview-LaGrange Hospital. 26-year-old Jason Smith died Sunday morning at Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne. Smith recently moved to Fort Wayne from Pleasant Lake.

FBI Releases Profile Of Tinsley Killer
Tuesday, May 12, 2009

(FORT WAYNE) - The F.B.I. says the man who killed eight-year-old April Tinsley is a Caucasian in his 40's or 50's. It was part of lengthy description that authorities released yesterday as part of the investigation into the death of the Fort Wayne girl whose body was found in southern DeKalb County over 20 years ago. Authorities say the killer is obsessed with little girls and likely still lives in northeast Allen County. The eight minute profile can be heard by calling 439-8232. The Tinsley case was recently spotlighted on the Fox Network program America's Most Wanted. Anyone with information on the case is asked to call 866-60-APRIL.

Former AHS Coach and A.D. Don Harter Passes Away
Tuesday, May 12, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Long time Angola High School football coach and athletic director Don Harter died on Monday at the age of 60. Harter passed away in Orleans, Vermont where he was working as a principal at Lake Region Union High School. School Athletic Director Vince Buttice told the Burlington Free Press that Harter was not feeling well and was at his home when his daughter went to check on him during the afternoon. Buttice said the rescue squad was called and Harter was later pronounced dead. The school in Vermont where Harter served as principal plans to hold a memorial service for him on Wednesday night. Besides serving as football coach and A.D., Harter was also at one time the Director of Transportation for the M.S.D. of Steuben County. Local funeral arrangements are pending at the Weicht Funeral Home in Angola.

Montpelier Woman Dies From Motorcycle Crash Injuries
Tuesday, May 12, 2009

(WILLIAMS COUNTY, Ohio) - A Montpelier, Ohio woman has died from her injuries that she suffered in an April 25th motorcycle accident. Troopers at the Ohio Highway Patrol's Defiance Post say 53-year-old Cheryl Harter passed away last Wednesday. She was flown to Parkview Hospital following the crash. Troopers say she failed to negotiate a curve and struck a culvert on County Road F west of State Road 49 near Edgerton.

LaGrange County Council Members Discuss Attorney Fees
Tuesday, May 12, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - Some members of the LaGrange County Council want to rethink how much work the county attorney does. Council discussed the issue Monday after claims for legal fees this month topped $16,000. County Attorney Kurt Bachman, who hasn’t raised his fees in more than a decade, asked council for direction on when he should refuse the legal work brought to him by county boards and employees.

Free Training Opportunities Being Offered By Red Cross
Tuesday, May 12, 2009

(UNDATED) - Grants that have been awarded by the Olive B. Cole Foundation and the Steuben County Community Foundation will allow the American Red Cross of northeast Indiana to offer free training opportunities. CPR and First Aid Training will be offered at the Ashley Town Council Building this Saturday. Other training sessions are scheduled for the 4-H Extension Office on May 23rd and June 19th, the Clear Lake Town Hall on June 6th, the Steuben County United Way office on June 11th and the Fremont Community Center on June 20th. Free Family Caregiving training will offered at various locations and times. For more information or to register, 484-9336, extension 240.

Identities Of Shooting Victims Confirmed
Monday, May 11, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - LaGrange County Prosecutor Jeff Wible expects to ask a judge later today for an enhanced bond for the man who allegedly fatally shot two men in LaGrange on Saturday. 25-year-old Cory Waltmire of LaGrange is charged with felony possession of marijuana. Wible and his two deputy prosecutors met with detectives from the LaGrange County Sheriff’s Department and the LaGrange Town Marshal earlier Monday afternoon at the scene of the shooting to better visualize how the incident might have happened. The prosecutor hopes to convince Superior Court Judge George Brown during a probable cause hearing to set Waltmire’s bond high enough to keep him in jail while he determines if a homicide charge is warranted. 24-year-old Shaun Zimmerman of Angola died Saturday at Parkview-LaGrange Hospital. 26-year-old Jason Smith died Sunday morning at Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne. Smith recently moved to Fort Wayne from Pleasant Lake. Police say the two beat Waltmire over the alleged theft of marijuana. Zimmerman and Smith took Waltmire to his residence in LaGrange to retrieve the marijuana when police say Waltmire broke away, grabbed a handgun and shot both men when they refused to leave.

Shooting Victims Had Past Legal Problems
Monday, May 11, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Steuben County court records indicate both of the men who were killed in Saturday's shooting in LaGrange had criminal histories. 24-year-old Shaun Zimmerman of Angola was convicted in July of 2001 of aggravated battery after pleading guilty to the charge. He was also facing charges of burglary and battery before the cases were dismissed by prosecutors in late March. Meanwhile, 26-year-old Jason Smith of Fort Wayne was given a two year sentence in September of 2007 on a Class D felony charge of intimidation. That was part of a plea bargain in which several other charges were dismissed by prosecutors. Smith also had a pending operating while intoxicated case in Steuben County Magistrates Court. The alleged gunman, 25-year-old Cory Waltmire, has a criminal case on file in Steuben County after he was charged with theft last January. The LaGrange County Sheriff's Department says the Saturday shooting took place after Zimmerman and Smith confronted and beat Waltmire in Steuben County about a large amount of marijuana that they thought he had stolen. The men eventually wound up at Waltmire's home in LaGrange where the shooting took place after police say the victims advanced towards Waltmire in a threatening manner.

Trine Recreation Buildings Up For Sale
Monday, May 11, 2009

(LAKE JAMES) - Five buildings at the Trine State Recreation Area are up for sale. Pokagon State Park Property Manager Ted Bohman says he will begin offering tours of the buildings to anybody who maybe interested in purchasing of the structures starting on Tuesday morning. Bohman says there is a $500 performance bond for each lot which will be returned when the building is removed. Bohman says there are still three big hurdles that have to be cleared before the Trine Recreation area will be ready for the public. One will be the construction of a safe entrance. Water and electrical issues also have to be addressed. Bohman estimates it will be one to three years before the Trine Recreation is opened up. Those interested in touring the buildings should call Pokagon State Park today at 833-2012.

Lawrence Sentenced To 12 Years In Meth Case
Monday, May 11, 2009

(ANGOLA) - An Angola man was given a 12 year sentence this morning in Steuben Superior Court after he entered into a plea bargain agreement with prosecutors last month in a methamphetamine case. 28 year old Jacob Lawrence pled guilty on April 13th to a Class B felony of dealing in methamphetamine. A Class A felony for manufacturing meth as well as an habitual offender charge were dropped this morning in exchange for Lawrence's guilty plea. Lawrence was one of two people arrested by Angola Police in March of 2008 after officers smelled ether in the 900 block of Butler Street

Hamilton Schools Trim Two More Teachers
Monday, May 11, 2009

(HAMILTON) - The Hamilton School Board had to bite the economic bullet again on Monday night as they approved a recommendation to not renew the contracts of two non-permanent teachers. The action brings the number of certified positions trimmed for the next school year up to four due to economic conditions. In addition, three instructional assistants and a secretary were terminated. Superintendent Mark Gould said the cuts did not reflect on anyones job performance but were caused by declining enrollment and revenue as well as increased costs. Gould noted that one or both of the teachers may be called back depending on how much stimulus money becomes available. Also during last nights meeting, details of the Hamilton Junior High Academy, which will be implemented during the 2009-2010 school year, were presented to the board. The academy is designed to help students make the transition from childhood to junior high a positive experience. All of the classes will be in one end of the junior-senior high school. There will be five 47 minute periods in the morning and since the students are in one section of the building, there will only be two minutes of transition time between classes. Afternoon classes will feature flex scheduling of academic and high interest programs.

OSU Williams County Extension Office Reduces Workforce
Monday, May 11, 2009

(BRYAN, Ohio) – Due to slumping county revenues, Ohio State University Extension office in Williams County is reducing its workforce by three and a half positions. County funding dropped from $293,000 in 2008 to $150,000 in 2009 after a first quarter adjustment. As a result, office hours will be reduced starting August 17th. Effective August 14th, two county educator positions and one support staff position will be eliminated. A fourth support staff position will be converted from full time to half time. Positions that have been eliminated include those held by Flo Chirra, Marilyn Sachs, and Carol Keezer. Regina Partee’s position will be reduced to a half-time position. Keith Smith, Director of OSU Extension says they have appreciated the support of Williams County Commissioners and know this reduction is the result of the county’s economic situation and not a reflection of the work that they do in the extension office. Smith says he is hopeful that Williams County’s revenues will improve and the Commissioners will be able to fully restore funding to OSU Extension in the near future.

Reward Offered in Honeywell Historic Home Arson
Monday, May 11, 2009

(BRONSON) - A $5,000 reward is being offered for information about last weeks fire which destroyed the Honeywell historic family home on Cranson Road near Bronson. Authorities have called the fire an arson but no suspects have been arrested yet. No one was living at the home, which is owned by Mark Yesh of Orland. While the house had little monetary value, it is a well known, historic home. The Honeywell family's connection with the home dates back over 100 years. The reward money is being offered as part of a state arson tip program which is being funded by the insurance industry. If have any information, call 1-800-44-ARSON, Michigan State Police at 517-278-8080 or Branch County Silent Observer at 517-279-2000.

First Trine University Commencement Held
Sunday, May 10, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Over 300 graduating seniors from Trine University officially stepped into the real world on Saturday morning as they received their diplomas during Commencement ceremonies at Hershey Hall. Some of the graduates were loudly cheered by family and friends as they received their diplomas from university President Doctor Earl Brooks II. Some excited relatives went so far as to blow air horns. Steel Dynamics founder Keith Busse delivered the commencement address. He told graduates to be honest as they pursue their careers. Busse also used the occasion to note the struggling economy and how the nation failed to address its energy shortcomings in recent years. He criticized the government for the way recent economic woes have been handled by saying, "Congress is fiddling while Rome burns." Busse and former Indiana State Senator Bob Meeks both received honorary degrees from the university. Meeks, who retired last year due to health problems, urged graduates to get involved in public service. The response for the Class of 2009 was delivered by Robert B. Stewart Award winner Jessica Vanderklok. Trine's new alma mater was also sung for the first time at the end of the commencement by 2008 graduate Becky Torres.

Some Amish Now Accepting Government Assistance
Sunday, May 10, 2009

(TOPEKA) - (AP) - The sagging economy has caused some Amish in northern Indiana to break from tradition and accept government assistance. Topeka holds the nation's third-largest Amish settlement, and it is suffering steep unemployment following a decades-long shift from
farming to factory work. The unemployment rate in the Elkhart-Goshen metropolitan area approached 19 percent in March, the most recent month for which data are available. Church and economic leaders say a growing number of the area's 23,000 Amish are willing to accept help. Bishops who once might have censured such actions now look the
other way. The Amish is a Christian denomination that uses bicycles or horse-drawn buggies and avoids hooking up to the electrical grid, fearing dependence on the outside world.

Guardian Automotive of Ligonier Lays Off 133 Workers
Saturday, May 9, 2009

(LIGONIER) - The unemployment lines in northeast Indiana just keep getting longer and longer as the miserable economic conditions show no sign of getting better anytime soon. Already bloodied by some of the highest unemployment rates not only in Indiana but in the entire country, Noble County and the region took another major hit yesterday as Guardian Automotive Products in Ligonier announced the lay off of 133 full-time employees. The lay offs were blamed on the shutdown of General Motors and Chrysler facilities. Guardian Automotive officials told the state of Indiana that the reductions began on Friday and are expected to last for about three months. The plant makes exterior trim and glass and two of its major customers are Chrysler and G.M.. The layoffs are said to be mostly temporary but some workers will lose their jobs permanently. The news comes at the worst possible time as Noble County's March unemployment was 16.8 percent. The Guardian lay offs may not be the last. The Motor and Equipment Manufacturers Association said in a letter to Congress yesterday that the G.M. and Chrysler factory shutdowns has caused a crisis in the auto supplier industry. Officials for the Association say many suppliers will have no choice but to permanently close facilities this summer. The trade group is urging Congress and President Obama to provide direct financial assistance to parts suppliers. They say a current program only helps large suppliers to G.M. and Chrysler.

"Orland Saturday Happenings" Start Next Weekend
Saturday, May 9, 2009

(ORLAND) - The Orland Area Chamber of Commerce will start a weekly fundraising and promotional event next Saturday. "Orland Saturday Happenings" features a farmers market, guest artists, special business sales, weekly events and a mini-flea market. There will also be weekly appraisals with a charge of $3 per item. Opening Day next Saturday will feature the Orland American Legion Auxiliary promoting their annual poppy sales. The weekly features will run through August 1st and it will be free to the public. Vendors will be charged $3.

Pokagon Hosting Triathlon/Duathlon Next Saturday
Saturday, May 9, 2009

(LAKE JAMES) - Pokagon State Park will host its third annual Triathlon and Duathlon next Saturday, May 16th. The event is being organized by the TriFort Triathletes. It will feature a 1.5 kilometer swim at Pokagon's main beach starting at 9:00am. Following the swim, there will be a 40-kilometer bike road and a 10-kilometer run. Motorist may experience a slight delay if they are traveling on State Road 127 just north of the Ramada Inn during the bicycle portion of the event which is expected to take place between 9:30am and 10:00am. More information on the event can be found at www.teamtrifort.com.

PH Building Trades Open House Next Sunday
Saturday, May 9, 2009

(BRUSHY PRAIRIE) - Except for a few finishing touches, another house constructed by the Prairie Heights Building Trades class is finished. The house was constructed about a mile south of Prairie Heights on LaGrange County Road 1150 East. You can get a look at the home next Sunday afternoon as the Building Trades students will be hosting an Open House. Hours will be from 1:00pm until 4:00pm.

TU's Hawks Retires After 31 Years Of Teaching
Saturday, May 9, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The dean of Trine University's Allen School of Engineering and Technology is retiring after serving the university for 31 years. Doctor Roger Hawks was honored Thursday night during a reception at Centennial Station on the Trine campus. During his career at the university, Hawks has received numerous awards and has held many positions. Besides being the Allen School dean, Hawks also served as the chair of the Wade Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.

City Council Approves '09 Max Levy And Tax Rate
Friday, May 8, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Three members of the Angola City Council met for a couple of minutes on Thursday to approve the city's 2009 maximum levy and tax rate. The actual levy dropped nearly $9,000 from last year to over $3.6 million. Angola Mayor Dick Hickman says it's a slight decrease of two-tenths of a percent from last year thanks to state-allowed deductions. With assesed valuation down by $34 million from last year to over $425 million in payable 2009, the city's tax rate will go up to just over 86 cents which is a 7.7 percent increase. With the city council's approval, the city figures will go to the county so that tax bills can be put together and sent out. Steuben County along with 30 other counties in Indiana will be late this year in sending out spring tax statements due in part to last years passage of House Bill 1001.

TU Commencement Set For Saturday
Friday, May 8, 2009

(ANGOLA) - What's being called "The Grand Finale" will take place Saturday morning on the Trine University campus. A total of 315 graduating seniors will receive their diplomas during Commencement ceremonies in Hershey Hall which get underway at 10:00. This years seniors are the first Trine University graduates after the name of the school was officially changed from Tri-State University last summer. Students will receive Trine University diplomas but those who attended the University under the Tri-State University name may also request a Tri-State diploma at no charge. Steel Dynamics founder Keith Busse will deliver the commencement address. He along with former State Senator Bob Meeks will receive Honorary Doctorates. Activities leading up to the graduation include a senior celebration tonight and a breakfast Saturday morning at the Whitmer clubhouse. The Trine University Office of Campus Operations has developed a parking plan for the Commencement. All visitors must enter the University using South Darling Street. Visitors will then be directed to disability accessible or general parking areas. Shuttles will be available from all parking areas.

Investigation Continues In Human Remains Discovery
Friday, May 8, 2009

(PIONEER, OHIO) – The autopsy process continues to help determine the identification of human remains, which were found in Pioneer, Ohio last weekend. Pioneer Police Chief Tim Livengood says the case remains under investigation and dental records have been requested of missing persons from the area. More information will be made available upon the results of the autopsy that is being conducted by the Lucas County Coroners Office. Pioneer Police were contacted last Saturday afternoon by a resident who said he came across what he thought were human remains while walking in a wooded area. The Williams County Coroners Office eventually confirmed that the remains were human.

Man Killed By Train In Williams County
Friday, May 8, 2009

(BRYAN, OHIO) - A man was killed yesterday in the southern part of Williams County when he was struck by a train in Center Township near Melbern. The Ohio State Highway Patrol reports 34 year old Leslie Wheeler of Montpelier walked onto the Norfolk and Southern tracks about a mile west of County Road 9 just after noon and was hit by an eastbound train. Wheeler was pronounced dead at the scene. The tracks were closed for three hours. The lead engine sustained light damage and continued to its destination along with the 96 cars it was pulling. Williams County E.M.S. and the Edgerton Fire Department assisted at the scene. The Williams County Sheriffs Department, the Williams County Coroners Office and the Norfolk and Southern Railroad Police are assisting the Highway Patrol with the investigation.

Woodland Hills Septic Problems To Be Discussed Saturday Morning
Friday, May 8, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - A solution to the septic problems that have plagued the Woodland Hills addition west of LaGrange will be the topic on Saturday morning when representatives from several government units meet with residents. The LaGrange County Regional Utility District board will meet at 9:00am in the Council Room at the LaGrange County Office Building. Representatives from the Town of LaGrange, the Department of Natural Resources, and other agencies are expected to attend. But perhaps the most important input needed will be from the residents of Woodland Hills. Utility District board president Jack Dold has said the residents haven’t always agreed on what needs to be done, but he says the septic problems are a serious health issue. Dold says that with only about 50 users, such a project would be a small one. The Town of LaGrange has plenty of sewage treatment capacity in its plant, but has been reluctant to do a project on its own.

Coldwater Car/Cycle Show And Swap Meet This Weekend
Friday, May 8, 2009

(COLDWATER) - The 22nd Annual Branch Area Chamber of Commerce Car/Cycle Show and Swap Meet will take place tonight and tomorrow at the Branch County 4-H Fairgrounds in Coldwater. Gates open Friday night at 5:00 and Saturday morning at 8:00. Events on Saturday include a muffler rap, a cruise through downtown Coldwater and a dance featuring the music of Spike and the Bulldogs at the Dearth Center. The event is held rain or shine.

Ringle Resigns As County Plan Director For U.P. Job
Thursday, May 7, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Steuben County Plan Director Jonathan Ringle announced his resignation during Wednesday nights Plan Commission meeting after he accepted a job in Iron Mountain, Michigan. Ringle will become the director of the Main Street Program in the Upper Peninsula community. His last day as County Plan Director will be May 22nd. Following a recommendation by Ringle, the Plan Commission named Assistant Planner Zach Michels as the Interim Plan Director once Ringle leaves. Ringle has worked in the Planning Office since July of 2006. He was named Plan Director later that year. In other business, the Plan Commission approved a special exception request so that a new and used car dealership can operate in a general business zoning district at 10020 West U.S. 20. A hair and beauty salon was located on the property at one time. They also gave Michels permission to pursue public notice signs being made. The signs will be posted at properties when they are on future agendas. Primary approvals on four minor plats were granted on 23 acres of land in Otsego and Richland Townships that the Nature Conservancy of Indiana eventually hopes to own.

More Stimulus Money For Williams County
Thursday, May 7, 2009

(BRYAN, OHIO) - Williams County has been awarded over $18,000 in additional federal funds through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to supplement emergency food and shelter programs in the county. A Local Board will distribute funds appropriated by Congress to help expand the capacity of county food and shelter programs run by local service agencies. This funding is above and beyond the previous Emergency Food and Shelter grant awarded to Williams County, and will be treated as such to address the great increases in unemployment and community need that are being seen throughout Williams County. Public or private voluntary agencies interested in applying must have applications completed and turned in by 12:00noon on Wednesday, May 20th. For more information, contact Chris Malanga, Local Board Chairman, at 419-636-8603.

Construction Work Next Week On South Martha
Thursday, May 7, 2009

(ANGOLA) - One block of South Martha near the Steuben County Courthouse is scheduled to be closed for a couple of days next week because of construction. Weather permitting, South Martha between East Maumee and East Gale will be closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Construction on South Martha is scheduled to start on Monday. Construction work is also scheduled to be performed next week at the intersection of East South and South Martha.

Two Injured in DeKalb County Crash
Thursday, May 7, 2009

(AUBURN) - Two people were injured yesterday afternoon when a pair of cars collided near the intersection of County Roads 427 and 11-A in DeKalb County. The DeKalb County Sheriffs Department reports 18-year-old Kyle Brooks of Fort Wayne lost control of his car at about 3:20 and struck another vehicle approaching the intersection that was driven by 26-year-old Paul Watkins of Auburn. Brooks and a passenger in the Watkins car were treated and released at DeKalb Memorial Hospital.

NIPSCO Announces Contract Agreement
Thursday, May 7, 2009

(MERRILLVILLE) - A new labor agreement has been reached between NIPSCO and the United Steelworkers Union. The two union locals represent members of the company's physical and clerical bargaining units. Union members have already ratified the new agreement. The current agreement, which is set to expire at the end of this month, will be replaced with the new five-year contract which will run through May of 2014.

Williams County Farmers Asked To Consider No Till Planting
Thursday, May 7, 2009

(Williams County, OH) - The long awaited spring planting season is here. According to the Williams Soil and Water Conservation District, one of the best ways to cut your risks and to ensure healthy crops is by timely spring planting. The S.W.C.D. says no-till planting may be an excellent option this spring. No-till crops on healthy soils will withstand summer heat and take advantage of moisture typically lost in spring tillage. Some studies show that no-till crops have been proven to be both environmentally and economically sound. No-till can save you time and fuel, and help you operate with lower overall cost per acre. For more information about no-till planting, contact the Williams Soil and Water Conservation District office at 419-636-9395.

PHSB Discuss Marching Band, School Calendar
Wednesday, May 6, 2009

(BRUSHY PRAIRIE) - If they can get enough students, Prairie Heights High School may field a marching band this fall for the first time in four years. Band Director Eric Piazza told the Prairie Heights School Board on Tuesday night that so far they have 18 students playing woodwinds, one drummer and nine color guard members and he hopes to get more band participants this month before school lets out for the summer. No action was taken by the board as board chair Mark Thrasher asked Piazza to get more information on the costs involved. Superintendent Doctor Paul Thomas also felt more students had to be found to play brass instruments and be in the percussion section. The board also went over a proposed district calendar for 2009-2010 which has only one half day for staff development. State Schools Superintendent Tony Bennett wants students to spend more time in the classroom. Instead of half days for teacher development, staff will meet twice a month for 50 minute collaberation sessions. The proposed 2009-2010 calendar calls for classes to start on August 20th. There would still be a two week break around the Christmas and New Years holidays. The calendar was presented to board members for their review and no formal action was taken.

Kalasz Competent To Stand Trial
Wednesday, May 6, 2009

(COLDWATER) - A man accused of killing a fellow resident at the Country Meadows Adult Foster Care Center in Branch County has been found competent to stand trial following an examination at a state mental hospital. The murder case of 50-year-old Kenneth Kalasz will now proceed to a Branch County District Court preliminary exam. He is charged with the February murder of Don Miller at the California Township facility.

Auburn Plant Announces Expansion
Wednesday, May 6, 2009

(AUBURN) - Officials for an Auburn manufacturer have announced they are expanding operations which will result in the addition of 32 new permanent jobs and 20 temporary positions by the end of the year. Metal Technologies Auburn will invest over $1.5 million in new equipment. The company currently has about 140 associates with another 70 at its corporate headquarters in Auburn. Indiana Economic Development officials say M.T.A. plans to begin the hiring immediately to prepare for the facility's new production capabilities. Existing employees will also undergo various training programs. Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Metal Technologies up to $325,000 in performance-based tax credits and up to $85,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. The City of Auburn will consider additional property tax phase-in at the request of the DeKalb County Economic Development Partnership.

Michigan and Ohio Voters Decide School Issues
Wednesday, May 6, 2009

(UNDATED) - No elections were held in Steuben County yesterday on what normally is a primary election day but voters in Michigan and Ohio decided several school issues. In Branch County, Rick Gates was elected to a four year term on the Coldwater School Board while Donna Hines and Paul Seegert were elected to the Quincy school board. Quincy voters also approved a millage renewal question. Meanwhile in Williams County, voters in the North Central School District turned down a proposed bond issue which would have been used to pay the local share of costs for the construction of a new K-12 school.

Pepsi Truck Accident Near West Unity
Wednesday, May 6th, 2009

(West Unity, OH) – An accident occurred Wednesday morning on Route 127 in Williams County, west of Pulaski, between Pulaski and West Unity. An Ohio Highway Patrol Officer on the scene advised the accident was a single vehicle crash involving a Pepsi-Cola truck at the 10-mile marker post on Route 127. According to the officer, the driver failed to negotiate the curve and rolled his truck in a nearby yard. The driver sustained minor injuries and was taken to the hospital in Bryan. The portion of Route 127 between County Road H and 17 was closed for while crews cleaned and secured the scene. Response Crews were initially dispatched at 5:57 a.m. After being released, Bryan Fire Chief Bruce Siders says his crew was called back to clean up some fuel leakage when the truck was being removed. Responding to the scene were Williams County EMS, Bryan City Fire Department, and the Ohio Highway Patrol. Pictures were taken by Brenda Leach-Wilkie, Swick Broadcasting Sales Executive.

PL 221 Classifications Show All Steuben County Districts In Academic Watch Status
Wednesday, May 6, 2009

(UNDATED) - All four Steuben County school corporations were in the academic watch status in the state’s Public Law 221 classifications released on Wednesday. The M.S.D. of Steuben County dropped from the academic progress classification, Hamilton went down from the exemplary classification while Prairie Heights fell two classifications, going from commendable to academic watch. There was no change in Fremont's status. The five classifications assigned by the state measure school progress based on the percentage of students passing the I-STEP PLUS tests, the improvement in the passing percentage of students taking I-STEP, and their adequate yearly progress status. Schools in the lowest classification - academic probation - face a series of increasingly serious interventions the longer they stay in that category. Statewide, two-thirds of school districts fell under the lowest two categories. About 70 percent of public high schools, 64 percent of public middle schools and 35 percent of public elementary schools fell into the lowest two categories in 2008. About a quarter of Indiana's public schools fell into a lower category in 2008 as compared to 2007.

Foley Murder Case Bound Over To Branch County Circuit Court
Wednesday, May 6, 2009

(COLDWATER) - The case of a Coldwater man who is charged with murdering his wife has been bound over to Branch County Circuit Court following a two day preliminary exam. 41-year-old Thomas Foley is scheduled to appear for a Circuit Court arraignment on May 18th. A trial date will be scheduled at a later time. Foley was ordered by Judge Brent Weigle to be held without bond pending his next court appearance. He is charged with murdering his wife DeeDee on February 7th at their home on East Girard Road north of Coldwater. Foley claims he's innocent of the charge. Under Michigan law, a District Court preliminary exam is held to determine if there is enough evidence to warrant a trial at a later date in Circuit Court. Thursday mornings testimony from prosecution witnesses centered around evidence collected at the murder scene. If the preliminary exam is any indication, a trial in the case could be lengthy and bitter. Things got slightly heated at one point when Assistant Prosecutor Mark Webb objected to a question defense attorney Eric Schaffer posed to Medical Examiner Derrick Emme about a fingerprint card which had Foley's prints on it. Eventually, Judge Brent Weigle sided with the defense. Just like last Wednesday when the preliminary exam began, relatives and friends of the victim and defendant jammed the District Courtroom. Cellphones, blackberries and other recording devices were also banned after a Grand Rapids television reporter was caught blogging in court during last weeks testimony.

County Looking At Only Having Licensed Plumbers Pull Permits
Wednesday, May 6, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Steuben County Commissioners were asked on Monday to help keep unlicensed plumbers out of building sites. Chris Knisely of Fremont was among a group of plumbers who showed up at Mondays meeting and he said it should be mandatory that only licensed plumbers be able to pull permits. He said such an arrangement is currently being used to the north in Branch County. After some discussion, the County Commissioners decided to have Building Commissioner Frank Charlton bring back a proposal for future consideration.

Historic Bronson Area Home Destroyed in Suspected Arson
Tuesday, May 5, 2009

(BRONSON) – A fire at a historic Bronson area home is being investigated as an arson. Bronson Fire Chief Brent Wilber says his department received a call just after midnight this morning from a passerby that the old Honeywell Homestead Centennial home on 551 Cranson Road was fully engulfed in flames. Firefighters arrived and had the blaze under control in ten minutes. They then spent the next hour and a half investigating the scene with the help of the Michigan State Police and the State Police Fire Investigator. No one was living at the home, which is owned by Mark Yesh of Orland. While the house had little monetary value, Wilber says it is a well known, historic home in the Bronson area. The Honeywell family’s connection with the home dates back over 100 years. Anyone who may have seen anything unusual at around the time of the fire is asked to call the Michigan State Police at 517-278-8080 or Silent Observer.

Commissioners Approve Pokagon Tornado Siren, Talk About H1N1
Tuesday, May 5, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Steuben County Commissioners approved a quote of nearly $15,500 on Monday afternoon for the installation of a new tornado siren at Pokagon State Park. County Emergency Director Bill Brown said the six horn siren rotates when it's turned on and he felt it would be a better siren for the park and for the residents around Lake James. It will replace an older siren which has malfunctioned several times in the past. Brown says the new siren should be ready in another month to six weeks. In other business, Commission Chair Mayo Sanders says they have been in touch everyday with the county health department concerning the outbreak of the H1N1 strain. Sanders said a county plan is in place in case it's needed and they will maintain a proactive situation.

Commissioners Set Parameters for R.F.Q. On County Park
Tuesday, May 5, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Steuben County Commissioners agreed on Monday afternoon to begin advertising for someone who might be qualified to put together an improvement plan for the Steuben County Park and 4-H Fairgrounds. Commission Chair Mayo Sanders felt the whole park should be looked and it should not be done on a piecemeal basis. Commissioner Jim Crowl felt they had to determine what they needed what they were going to keep. After getting bogged down for various reasons over the last year, Sanders felt it was time to get the project moving again. He indicated some of the County Parks Improvement Committee members were getting frustrated with the pace of the project and that they were not going to be involved anymore if things did not get moving.

County Treasurer Given Go Ahead To Accept Credit Card Payments
Tuesday, May 5, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Steuben County Treasurers Office will be accepting credit card payments in the near future. Steuben County Commissioners approved a request from Treasurer Laurie Stoy on Monday to enter into a month-to-month agreement with PayGov of Indianapolis. She says this will not cost the county anything and there will be no long term contract. Those who use a credit card in the Treasurers Office will be charged a convenience fee of 3%. The fee will be 3.95% on internet payments and 4.95% for payments on the phone. Stoy says credit card payments will be an option available for taxpayers. Meanwhile, County Auditor Pam Coleman says no date has been set for a deadline on the spring tax collections. She said values have just been set to the Indiana Department of Local Government Finance for review. Normally, the spring tax collection deadline is May 10th. Just when the statements will be ready to be mailed out this year is anybodys guess. Last years passage of House Bill 1001 is being blamed as the main reason why Steuben and about 30 other counties in the state are going to be late sending out their tax bills this spring.

City Council Approves First Reading Of Kinney Vacation
Tuesday, May 5, 2009

(ANGOLA) - The Angola City Council approved the first reading of an ordinance on Monday night that will allow for the vacation of a two block section of Kinney Street so that Trine University can turn it into green space as part of a development project. The vote came after Summitt Street property owner Barry Buechly blasted the city and the university for not giving any consideration to residents on his street. He said the closing of Kinney between Moss and Park would create more traffic problems on Summitt where he felt the quality of life has gone down because of the university's recent development. After the first reading was passed, the Council decided to have its Traffic Committee put together some suggestions on how to deal with traffic issues on Summitt. In other business, the Council passed an ordinance on third reading which regulates the solicitation on money for charitable purposes on the downtown mound. Three bids were submitted for a new 250,000 gallon elevated water storage tank on U.S. 20 near I-69. Maquire Iron submitted the low bid at just over $769,000 which was below the engineer estimate for the project of $1 million.

Human Remains Found in Pioneer
Tuesday, May 5, 2009

(PIONEER, OHIO) - An autopsy will be conducted to help determine the identification of human remains which were found in Pioneer, Ohio over the weekend. Pioneer Police Chief Tim Livengood says his department was contacted Saturday afternoon by a resident who said he came across what he thought were human remains while he was walking in a wooded area. The Williams County Coroners Office eventually confirmed that the remains were human. Livengood says the case remains under investigation and more information will be made available upon the results of the autopsy that is being conducted by the Lucas County Coroners Office.

Branch County Judge Bans Electronic Communicating Devices
Tuesday, May 5, 2009

(COLDWATER) - Branch County District Court Judge Brent Weigle has banned cell phones, blackberries and other electronic communicating devices from his courtroom following an incident last week during a hearing in the Thomas Foley murder case. The Coldwater Daily Reporter reports a Grand Rapids television station reporter was caught twittering and blogging live from the courtroom about the testimony after a District Court employee checked a pair of web sites. Weigle told the newspaper he issued the order to maintain the integrity of the judicial process. Foley is charged with the February murder of his wife DeeDee. His preliminary exam is scheduled to resume on Wednesday morning. Weigle will then decide if the case will be bound over to Branch County Circuit Court.

Guilty Pleas Entered in Theft And Forgery Cases
Tuesday, May 5, 2009

(ANGOLA) - An Angola woman is scheduled to be sentenced on July 20th on two counts of theft and a forgery charge after she entered into a plea bargain agreement Monday afternoon in Steuben Circuit Court. 34-year-old Roseanna Gilbert entered guilty pleas in connection to alleged thefts from a pair of local businesses and the alleged forging of a check in January. Judge Allen Wheat took the plea agreement under advisement. If it is accepted, court documents indicate Gilbert is looking at a eight year sentence. In addition, she would have to pay restitution to the alleged victims. In exchange for the guilty pleas, prosecutors would then drop all of the other charges that were filed against her in three cases going back to August of last year.

New Church Ready To Be Built At St. Anthony's
Monday, May 4, 2009

(ANGOLA) - You may have noticed the heavy machinery at St. Anthony's Catholic Church on West Maumee in Angola in recent days. That construction equipment is about ready to be put to use. Church Pastor Father Fred Pasche announced during this weekends masses that a groundbreaking ceremony for a new church has been scheduled for Sunday, May 17th following the 10:00am mass. The building of a new church comes after a $4 million fundraising effort involving pledges and cash which has lasted nearly four years. The new church will replace the current building which has been used for church services for almost 50 years. At the time it was built, it was considered to be a temporary building for church services.

LaGrange County Health Department Expands Free Shots Program
Monday, May 4, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - The LaGrange County Health Department is expanding its free immunization program to include evening hours starting today. The evening appointment clinic will be held Mondays, with scheduled appointments from 3:15 to 6:00pm. You can call the health department office at 499-4182 to schedule an evening appointment. Walk-in clinic hours are Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:30 to 11:00am and 1:00 to 3:00pm. Appointments are available on Tuesdays. Shipshewana’s immunization clinics are the first and third Thursdays of every month, with Topeka clinics on the second and fourth Thursdays. Children can receive immunizations free of charge, but the health department does accept donations from those who are able.

Late Night ORV Accident Injures Auburn Man
Monday, May 4, 2009

(AUBURN) - An Auburn man was injured late last night in a DeKalb County off-road vehicle accident. Indiana Conservation Officers report 44-year-old Paul Carper was operating the vehicle in a grass field near the 6500 block of County Road 52 at about 11:20 when he collided with a fence throwing him and a passenger off of the ORV. Carper was pinned underneath the vehicle and fence for about a half hour. He was taken to DeKalb County Memorial Hospital where he was treated for back injuries and a laceration to his face. His passenger was not injured. Indiana Conservation Officer Rodney Clear indicated in a press release that investigators think alcohol was a factor in the crash.

Fremont Town Council Meetings Changed
Monday, May 4, 2009

(FREMONT) - Because of scheduling conflicts, the Fremont Town Council meeting dates for May and June have been changed. Normally, the Town Council meets on the third Tuesday of the month. Fremont Clerk-Treasurer Kathy Parsons says this months meeting will take place next Tuesday night, May 12th, instead of May 19th. They will also meet on June 9th instead of June 16th.

Kindergarten Testing Next Week In the M.S.D. of Steuben County
Monday, May 4, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Kindergarten testing will be held next week in all of the M.S.D. of Steuben County elementary schools. Testing is scheduled for May 13th, 14th, and 15th from 7:30am until 3:00pm at Carlin Park, Hendry Park, Pleasant Lake and Ryan Park Elementary Schools. Parents are asked to call any one of the four elementary school offices to schedule your child’s readiness testing if you have not received a letter notifying you of your child’s appointment time. Parents who have not registered their child are being asked to do so on or before these dates.

Hudson Clean Up Day Is Set For Saturday
Monday, May 4, 2009

(HUDSON) - Hudson residents who have been doing the spring cleaning chores in recent weeks are being asked to follow a few easy instructions for the town's Annual Clean Up Day which is set for this Saturday. Town officials ask that all items to be collected be placed at the curb and that all trash has to be placed in a container, bagged or bundled. No loose trash will be picked up. A homeowner discarding a refrigerator must show proof of Freon removal by a certified technician. Items such as steel furniture and wood should be separated from normal household trash. Once the collection truck has passed a residence, it will not return. The following items will not be picked up: oil based paints, appliances without certification, concrete, anti-freeze, asphalt, auto fluids, liquids, fertilizers, chemicals, and lead acid batteries, special waste, tires, hazardous waste, used oil, closed containers, explosives, yard waste, fire extinguishers, trees and bushes, and compressed gas. For more details, contact the Hudson Clerk-Treasurer’s office at 587-9500.

Drug And Alcohol Quiz Bowl Winners Announced
Monday, May 4, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Fifth and sixth graders from around Steuben County took part in the Drug and Alcohol Quiz Bowl which was hosted this past Saturday at Carnegie Public Library by Drug Free Steuben. The fifth grade winner was Morgan O'Beirne from Ryan Park Elementary while the sixth grade winner was Corey Collins from Prairie Heights. The winners will advance to the Fort Wayne Regional Competition on May 16th. Students were asked true and false, multiple choice and open-ended questions about drugs and alcohol.

Electrical Short May Have Started Bryan Multi-Residence Fire
Monday, May 4, 2009

(BRYAN, OHIO) – Bryan Firefighters were summoned to a multi-residence house fire early Monday morning. Bryan Assistant Fire Chief Douglas Pool said crews were dispatched to 308 and 310 South Beech Street at about 3:20am. Pool says crews found heavy smoke and flames upon their arrival. Early reports say the fire appears to have started from an electrical short. Damages are estimated at $65,000. The fire was contained to the attic area of the structure. All occupants of the two-resident structure were able to escape the home uninjured. No injuries were reported. Thirty-five firefighters were on the scene for approximately 3 1/2 hours. The Bryan Fire Department received mutual aid from Montpelier and Edgerton, with Brady Township standing by at the Bryan station. The owner of the home was Jennifer Bogelson, renters were Cathleen Adkins and Todd Lower.

Three Arrested on Drug Charges Near Plato
Monday, May 4, 2009

(PLATO) - LaGrange County deputies arrested three people on drug-related charges after going to a home Friday evening to serve a warrant. Police went to the Pamela Godsey residence near Plato with an arrest warrant for failure to appear in court on a controlled substance charge. The odor of marijuana coming from the house prompted police to obtain a search warrant, and they found items commonly used to manufacture methamphetamine. The 39-year-old Godsey is charged with delaing meth, possession of meth and possession of marijuana. 44-year-old Leon Curtis Godsey is charged with aiding in dealing meth, maintaining a common nuisance, possession of meth, and assisting a criminal. 19-year-old Douglas Dewayne Robinson of Kendallville was charged with felony possession of marijuana and visiting a common nuisance. Deputies report they continue to see an increase in the number of meth cases in LaGrange County and they encourage residents to report suspicious activity.

Need Questions Answered About Influenza A N1H1
Friday, May 1st, 2009

(Undated) - There is a toll-free hotline for the public who may have questions about Influenza A H1N1. The hotline number is 1.877.826.0011. Health officials advise that this is not intended for people to ask medical advice on symptoms. You are encouraged to contact your health care provider if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms.

Piggy's Brings in a Taste of "American Idol"
Friday, May 1st, 2009

(Angola, IN) – If you’re an American Idol fan, this station and Piggy’s in Angola, Indiana is bringing a bit of “Idol” to the tri-state region with a competition called “Angola Idol”. The “legendary “Woody” from Piggy’s says that even though the competition is being held in Angola, competitors from all around the area are welcome. Woody says the event emulates what is seen on TV. Over 30,000 karaoke songs will be provided to you, but it’s recommend you have your own karaoke song on disc and prepared for the panel of judges. Woody says the judges are local people with extensive music backgrounds. The contest is open to both men and women and starts tonight at Piggys. You must be at least 21 years of age or older to participate. The grand finale of the competition will be May 29th. Finalist will perform with a live band called Buttonhead. For more information visit the home page of our website or call Piggy’s at 260.665.7550.

Teacher Lay-offs
Friday, May 1st, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - May 1st is the deadline for Indiana School Corporations to inform teachers of potential layoffs for the next school year, and it appears LaGrange County’s school districts won’t be forced into layoffs due to budget concerns. Lakeland Superintendent Risa Heber says it appears any teacher reductions will occur through attrition, either by retirements or resignations. Prairie Heights Superintendent Paul Thomas says the only reductions anticipated there are among temporary positions. He said one or two teachers on temporary contracts might not return, and two temporary aides would probably not return. Westview Superintendent Randy Zimmerly says he doesn’t expect any teacher layoffs due to budget constraints. Other districts aren’t so lucky. Fort Wayne Community Schools and Southwest Allen County Schools recently announced staff reductions due to budget concerns.

Howe Military Student Taken Into Custody For Stabbing
Friday, May 1st, 2009

(HOWE) - LaGrange County deputies arrested a 14-year-old at Howe Military School on Tuesday night after he allegedly stabbed another person with an ink pen. The victim received several stitches to close the wounds to his head. The suspect was taken to the Allen County Juvenile Center.

May Day
Friday, May 1st, 2009

(Undated) – Today is May 1st and also known as May Day. Ethnically associated with various Celtic and German festivals, May Day falls exactly half of a year from November 1st. May Day marks the end of the uncomfortable winter half of the year in the Northern hemisphere.

Governor Daniels Will Call For Special Session
Friday, May 1st, 2009

(INDIANAPOLIS - AP) - Governor Mitch Daniels says he will call a special session on the budget when lawmakers are ready to deal with fiscal realities. The General Assembly adjourned Wednesday without passing a new, two-year budget, which will force lawmakers to reconvene to craft a spending plan. Daniels said yesterday that the plan lawmakers voted on but did not pass late Wednesday spent too much money at a time when state revenues have taken a big hit. He said he would have vetoed the plan had it been approved. He did not say when he would call a special session but said the best thing for lawmakers to do is go home, get away from special interests and listen to taxpayers.

South Bend School Bus Kills Woman
Friday, May 1st, 2009

(SOUTH BEND, Ind. - AP) - Police in South Bend say a South Bend school bus struck and killed the wife of the city attorney as she crossed a street. Fifty-seven-year-old Kathleen Curtis was the wife of South Bend city attorney Chuck Leone. Police say she was in an area popular with walkers near the St. Joseph River when she tried to cross the street yesterday morning. Ten pupils from the Tarkington Elementary School were on the bus. None of them were injured.

Chrysler Will Temporarily Stop Production
Friday, May 1st, 2009

(Undated) - Chrysler says it will temporarily stop most of its vehicle production until its deal with Italy's Fiat is complete. The shutdown is effective Monday. The company says it expects the shutdown to last between 30 and 60 days and then resume with normal production schedules once the agreement is completed. President Barack Obama late yesterday announced another $8 billion dollars of taxpayer funding to help the automaker weather the bankruptcy. For car buyers the change could mean better rebates at Chrysler dealerships.

Good Service Brings More Than Just A Happy Customer
Friday, May 1st, 2009

(Angola, IN) – Sometimes good service can bring much more than just a happy customer. Kimberly and Cameron Holtzman presented Harold Chevrolet in Angola-Indiana with a flag Thursday afternoon to thank them for their help while Cameron was serving the country in Iraq. Kimberly says she could handle just about anything while her husband was gone, except dealing with car troubles. She says Harold Chevrolet went out of their way to help her in more than one situation. Cameron says that not only did they help her, but it was a relief for him too. Kimberly knew she wanted to thank Harolds when Cameron returned, and it was his idea to give them the flag. It is from Camp Anaconda in Iraq, where Cameron had been stationed. Kimberly says the flag really means a lot to her and it feels good giving it to someone who helped her out in so many ways.

Meetings Cancelled
Friday, May 1st, 2009

(Angola, IN) - The City of Angola has cancelled the following meetings: The Angola Historic Preservation Commission at 5:30 p.m. on May, 5th and the Angola Plan Commission at 5 p.m. on May 11th. For more information contact the City of Angola Economic Development and Planning Office at 260.665.7465.

Foley Preliminary Hearing in Branch County
Thursday, April 30th, 2009

(Coldwater, MI) – Wednesday in Michigan’s Branch County Thomas Foley was in court for a preliminary hearing to see if there is enough evidence to send him to trial for allegedly killing his wife Dee Dee. According to Kalamazoo Television Channel 3, there was one witness who really captured everyone's attention in court: a ten-year-old boy who is friends with Tom and Dee Dee Foley's son. On the day Dee Dee was killed, he and the Foley's son were playing outside the family's home in Girard, when the boy testified he heard something. Pathology reports say Dee Dee died from a single gunshot wound to the side of the head at close range. Dee Dee Foley, a Union City school teacher, was killed in her home in February. Foley taught second grade in Union City and had worked in the district for 19 years. The Thomas Foley's hearing will continue next week.

Legislators recommend naming new state police post for Bob Meeks
Thursday, April 30th, 2009

(INDIANAPOLIS) - The new state police post being built along the Indiana Toll Road near Elkhart may soon have a familiar name. Lawmakers approved a resolution offered by State Senator Marlin Stutzman recommending the State Police name the post for Bob Meeks. Meeks retired from the state police as commander of the Ligonier Post before entering the legislature. Stutzman, who replaced Meeks in the State Senate last year, says Meeks embodies what the state police are all about. The new post is being built at exit 96, which is the Elkhart East interchange.

Sheriff closes LaGrange County Jail to halt flu from reaching inmates
Thursday, April 30th, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - LaGrange County Sheriff Terry Martin doesn't want the H1N1 flu to sweep through his jail. In a news release on Wednesday, the sheriff said he's closing the jail to the public for at least the next two weeks in an effort to reduce inmate exposure to the flu. The action closes the jail to anyone except lawyers representing inmates. That means no visitation for inmates, chaplain visits, education programs, tours by the public, fingerprints for handgun permits or other reasons. Martin said the lobby and the administration office will continue to do business as usual. The closing of the jail will last at least through May 14th.

Meth Raid-South Milford
Thursday, April 30th, 2009

(SOUTH MILFORD) - Indiana State Police arrested two men following a meth raid near South Milford early this morning. The Indiana State Police Emergency Response Team conducted the raid at 6530 South County Road 900-East between South Milford and Big Long Lake. Officers arrested 54-year-old Lloyd Michael Germano of Fort Wayne on preliminary charges of aiding in dealing methamphetamine, possession of meth, and visiting a common nuisance. 44-year-old Mark Edward Hammel of rural Wolcottville was arrested on a charged of resisting law enforcement. Hammel was released after posting bail. Germano remained incarcerated. The Indiana State Police Lab Team assisted at the scene.

Bounty Hunter Led Police to Mobile Meth Lab
Thursday, April 30th, 2009

(WOLCOTTVILLE) - A call for help from a bounty hunter led Noble County police to a mobile meth lab this morning. The sheriff’s department got a call from the bounty hunter requesting assistance in locating two persons at a Wolcottville apartment. Before deputies arrived, a vehicle picked up Kayla Sturdivant and Jason Wallen and headed south on State Road 9. The bounty hunters followed and attempted to block the vehicle in along Northport Road near Rome City. They apprehended Studivant, but Wallen ran into a wooded area. Police arrived with a canine and tracked Wallen southeast but lost the trail at the next roadway. Officers found a meth lab inside a back pack that was in the car, which was impounded. The state police lab team that was working the LaGrange County lab arrived to process the mobile lab. Charges against both suspects were pending.

Indiana Legislature Makes Special Session Certain
Thursday, April 30th, 2009

(INDIANAPOLIS - AP) - The Legislature has voted down a new state budget, making a special legislative session certain. The Democrat-led House decided to put a Senate Republican budget proposal up for a vote with only minutes left before the midnight deadline last night, and no House Republicans voted for it. In other government decisions, The Legislature did not vote on a bill last night that would have given Indianapolis local taxing options to help its struggling stadium agency. Sen. Luke Kenley of Noblesville says the bill got caught up in other issues as the midnight adjournment deadline approached, and it did not come up for a vote. The Legislature has passed a bill designed to fix Indiana's bankrupt unemployment insurance fund. The Democrat-led House voted 52-47 along party lines last night. The bill had earlier passed the Republican controlled Senate and now goes to Governor Mitch Daniels for his consideration.

Football Thespians
Thursday, April 30th, 2009

(Angola, IN) – Tonight the Trine University Thunder Football Team is taking the stage as “thespians”. It's not often that a championship football team performs on stage, but tonight will be a different twist in Fabiani Theater on the campus of Trine University. The Thunder Football Team Will Host a Variety Show starting at 8 p.m. Admission is free with donations being accepted at the door to benefit the fight against Rhett Syndrome.

H1N1 Prevention Coming
Thursday, April 30th, 2009

(INDIANAPOLIS - AP) - Enough antiviral drugs to treat 238,000 people have arrived in Indiana, and the state's health commissioner is telling residents that diligence is the key to preventing a the H1N1 flu outbreak. State officials plan to begin distributing the new drugs today to each county health department. This new variant of the H1N1 flu has not been identified in any North American swine. Officials point out that the “flu virus currently being found is not carried in pigs and is not in any pork products". The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that it has not found any evidence to indicate that any of the illnesses resulted from contact with pigs. The “flu” is a respiratory health issue and is in no way transmissible via food products.

Indiana's First Confirmed Case of Swine Flu
Wednesday, April 29th, 2009

(INDIANAPOLIS - AP) - Indiana's first confirmed case of swine flu is a student at Notre Dame. Notre Dame says the student has fully recovered and is in good health. And a university spokeswoman says there's "no cause for panic" and that all public events are continuing as scheduled. Locally, Dr. Ted Crisman, Health Officer for Steuben County, said “Swine Flu is NOT classified as a pandemic, but activity is increasing and people should remain calm”. Crisman advises that people who are sick should stay home, which he says is the best way to prevent the spread of the disease, specifically in school age children. Local health officials in the tri-state are closely monitoring human cases of swine flu, so far there are not any documented cases.

Homeowners & Fire Fighters Pick Up the Pieces After Horrific Blaze
Wednesday, April 29th, 2009

(Angola, IN) - The weekend fire at Lone Tree Point on Lake James left home owners devastated with loss. Other than helping homeowners, Angola Fire Public Information Officer T-R Hagerty said the fire department’s work is done on the scene of the blaze. For both homeowners and fire crews…the work still continues this week away from the site with other duties. Hagerty says he and area fire officials have had positive feedback from the community in regards to the actions taken by many fire crews as the battled one of the areas worst multiple structure fires in history. Hagerty is very pleased with how smooth everything went, despite the massive fire. Angola Fire Captain Jason Meek was the incident commander. Meek, along with two aides controlled the command post, orchestrating the efforts of over 28 crews from Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio. While no major injuries were reported among all of the crew, one of Angola’s fire engines was damaged at the scene. Hagerty says he understands that people are interested in looking at the fire damage, but he encourages everyone to try to give the home-owners room and freedom to get this situation taken care of especially since the road back to the homes is very narrow and could get crowded.

Reference to “Swine” Not Accurate
Wednesday, April 29th, 2009

(Undated) - The name swine flu might be catchy, but it's not accurate and it's causing unnecessary problems and concerns, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and USDA. Homeland Security officials announced that the virus name would be changed to the Influenza A - H1N1 virus. The name change is being recommended to eliminate the public confusion about this illness and to more accurately characterize it as a human-to-human transmitted virus. The problem is that the name "swine flu" implies a problem with pork products and swineherds. This new variant of H1N1 influenza has not been identified in any North American swine. Officials point out that the “influenza virus currently being found is not carried in pigs and is not in any pork products". The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that it has not found any evidence to indicate that any of the illnesses resulted from contact with pigs. Influenza is a respiratory health issue and is in no way transmissible via food products. The virus has a short life span and is very sensitive to drying and heat. Several countries have halted imports of U.S. pork products; action that the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative has warned is unwarranted and could meet with further trade challenges. The USDA is emphasizing that the U.S. pork industry is sound and that consumers everywhere should know that U.S. pork products are safe.

Go Green with the American Red Cross
Wednesday, April 29th, 2009

(Undated) - If you’re looking to be eco-friendly, your first step could simply be rolling up your sleeve to donate blood – because “blood” is truly a renewable resource that can help others in need. You can give blood every 56 days, up to six times a year - one blood donation can help save up to three lives. This spring, the American Red Cross is asking you to help “recycle life” by giving blood. Blood is renewable because your body replaces the lost fluid within 24 hours after donation and continuously replaces red blood cells. The American Red Cross encourages you to “Recycle your blood for someone who needs it today”. All presenting donors at blood drives May 11th - May 15th will receive a free reusable tote. There will be a Blood Drive in Steuben County on Wednesday, May 6th from noon until 6:00 p.m. at the Helmer United Methodist Church, located at 7530 S. SR 327 in Helmer.

Angola City Hydrant Flushing
Wednesday, April 29th, 2009

(Angola, IN) – Angola City Water Department’s semi-annual flushing and maintenance continues today. Hydrant flushing will continue today south of east Maumee Street and east of South Wayne Street. If you live in that area Water Department officials advise you refrain from doing laundry during these times.

PH Graduation
Wednesday, April 29th, 2009

(Brushy Prairie, IN) – Officials at Prairie Heights have announced graduation ceremonies for Sunday, June 7th, 2009 in the West Gymnasium at 3 p.m. A voluntary Baccalaureate Ceremony in the HS Auditorium will be held prior, starting at 1:30 p.m. The 2008-2009 Valedictorian is Erica Gilliland of South Milford and the Salutatorian is Sarah Albright of Orland.

Amish Buggy Rescue
Wednesday, April 29th, 2009

(LIGONIER, Ind. - AP) - Authorities in Ligonier have rescued an Amish couple whose horse-drawn buggy plunged into the Elkhart River. The couple were riding in the buggy last night when the horse spooked, pulling the vehicle into the river. The horse drowned.

Another American Idol Elimination Tonight
Wednesday, April 29th, 2009

(LOS ANGELES - AP) - Another singer bites the dust on "American Idol" tonight. The latest challenge for the final five contestants was to sing classic songs like Rat Pack members Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. used to sing. Kris Allen sang "The Way You Look Tonight." Allison Iraheta, the only female contender left, performed "Someone to Watch Over Me." Matt Giraud's (jir-AHDZ') song was "My Funny Valentine." Danny Gokey sang "Come Rain or Come Shine." The last to sing was Adam Lambert, and he did "Feeling Good." All of them were tutored by guest adviser Jamie Foxx.

Lone Tree Point Fire Still Not Determined
Tuesday, April 28th, 2009

(Angola, IN) – According to a news release from the office of Angola Fire Department Public Information Officer, TR Hagerty, the weekend fire at Lone Tree Point on Lake James has no definitive cause. The fire itself and damage was so intense that local and state investigators could not make a determination. The fire is still under investigation and Hagerty says the “cause” is now in the hands of the insurance investigators. The wind speed at the time of the fire was 20 to 25 Mph. 28 fire crews from Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio battled what is being called “one of the worst” in Steuben County’s history.

Swine Flu; Crisman Says Everyone Should Remain Calm
Tuesday, April 28th, 2009

(Undated) - Health officials in Michigan are suggesting ways to avoid swine flu after a 34-year-old Livingston County woman who recently vacationed in Texas was recovering at home near Lansing with the state's first suspected case. More test results on her are expected today or tomorrow. Meanwhile, an Ohio elementary school is closed for the week as health officials’ work to contain the spread of swine flu, which has sickened a 9-year-old student. Officials say a cleaning crew has sanitized doorknobs, desktops and telephones at an Elementary School in Elyria, Ohio. Locally, in a news release from the Steuben County Health Department, Dr. Ted Crisman, Health Officer for Steuben County, Indiana said “this is NOT classified as a pandemic, but activity is increasing and people should remain calm”. Crisman advises that people who are sick should stay home, which he says is the best way to prevent the spread of the disease, specifically in school age children. Local health officials in Steuben County are closely monitoring human cases of swine flu. Dr. Crisman says there are currently no documented cases in Steuben County, IN.

Angola Hydrant Flushing
Tuesday, April 28th, 2009

(Angola, IN) – Angola City Water Department’s semi-annual flushing and maintenance continues today. Hydrant flushing will take place today and tomorrow south of East Maumee Street and east of South Wayne Street.

Thunder Football Team Takes The Stage
Tuesday, April 28th, 2009

(Angola, IN) - It's not often that a championship football team performs on stage, but Thursday, April 30th at 8:00 p.m. in Fabiani Theater on the campus of Trine University, The Thunder Football Team Will Host a Variety Show consisting of; themselves. Proceeds from the show will go to assist the fight against Rhett Syndrome. Admission is free with donations being accepted at the door.

“Dillinger” Movie Could Spike Tourism in State
Tuesday, April 28th, 2009

(Undated) – A new movie called “Public Enemy”, illustrating the life of Indiana-born John Dillinger, has Indiana officials hoping it will generate some much needed tourism in the state. The movie stars Johnny Depp as Dillinger. The movie doesn't open until July 1st, but Indiana, Wisconsin, Illinois and Arizona are readying for the onslaught of attention related to the film, which features Dillinger's escapades through those states. "Public Enemies" director Michael Mann filmed in several midwestern cities in each of the states, including Indiana.

No Cause Found Yet In Lone Tree Point Fire
Monday, April 26th, 2009

Long Time PH Teacher Dies
Monday, April 27th, 2009

(FISH LAKE) - Longtime Prairie Heights teacher Marcia Booher died Friday at her Fish Lake home. Booher, who was 55, taught fifth and first grade during her 19 years at Prairie Heights. She helped develop the Panther Paradise, an interactive learning garden for children. Survivors include her husband, Michael, a daughter and son, and four grandchildren. Calling is today from 2 to 8 p-m at South Milford Church of Christ. The funeral will be Tuesday at 11 a.m. at the church.

UAW and Chrysler Reach Concession Deal
Monday, April 27th, 2009

(Undated) - The United Auto Workers union says it has reached a concession agreement with Chrysler and the U.S. government. The union says the deal is painful but takes advantage of the second chance the company was given by the Treasury Department. The government rejected Chrysler's viability plan in February and said it could not stand on its own. The union deal means the company has cleared another major hurdle as it races toward a Thursday deadline. Chrysler has four plants and thousands of employees from and in Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio.

Two Injured in LaGrange County Accident
Monday, April 27th, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - Two LaGrange men were injured in separate accidents Sunday afternoon and evening. The LaGrange County Sheriff’s Department says 18-year-old Cory Grey was transported to Parkview-LaGrange Hospital for treatment of a cut to the leg. Grey told police his motorcycle hit a rough spot on County Road 300-East north of 50-North, causing him to lose control and crash through a vinyl fence. The other crash happened on County Road 100-South near 400-East. 20-year-old Derick White told deputies he took his eye off the road for a second and ended up on top of a guard rail. The car rolled over onto its top and into a stream, coming to rest in about two feet of water. White was taken to Parkview-LaGrange Hospital after complaining of pain. He suffered unspecified injuries.

Swine Flu Eruption
Monday, April 27th, 2009

(Undated) - As reports of a unique form of swine flu erupt around the world, the inevitable question arises: Is this the big one? Is this the next big global flu epidemic that public health experts have long anticipated and worried about? Is this the novel virus that will kill millions around the world, as pandemics did in 1918, 1957 and 1968? The short answer is it's too soon to tell. Health officials are recommending several steps to prevent the spread of the virus:


1. If you have flu symptoms, stay home from work or school to avoid spreading the disease. Do not return until two days after your symptoms are gone.


2. Wash your hands often and cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.


3. Go to the hospital if you have severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing; but if your symptoms are mild, stay home to avoid spreading the virus to others at the hospital.


4. Masks may be recommended for health care workers, family members and others who come in close contact with swine flu patients, but there is no need for the general public to wear masks.


5. It is safe to eat properly handled pork. Cook it to at least 160F.

Lakeland School Corporation Sets Kindergarten Roun-Up
Monday, April 27th, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - Lakeland School Corporation’s kindergarten roundup begins this evening. Parkside Elementary in LaGrange will hold its roundup from 5 to 6 and again from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Parents should bring their child’s birth certificate and complete immunization records. Children must be five-years-old on or before August 1st in order to enroll in kindergarten. Lima-Brighton Elementary in Howe holds its roundup on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and Wolcott Mills Elementary in Wolcottville has its roundup on Wednesday at 6:30 p-m.

Windy Blaze at Lone Tree Point Destroys Five Structures, Causes Over $6 Million In Damage
Saturday, April 25th, 2009

$100,000 Hoosier Lottery Ticket Sold At Fremont Truck Stop
Friday, April 24, 2009

(FREMONT) - A Fremont truck stop has sold a winning $100,000 Hoosier Lottery scratch off game ticket. Truck Driver Charles Szymanski of Jenison, Michigan bought the lucky ticket on Wednesday when he made his usual stop at JoJo's Variety Store in the Angola Travellers Mall on North Baker Road. Szymanski bought a $10 Hoosier Millions scratch off ticket which is a higher priced ticket than he normally buys. Szymanski says he plans to save the money.

$50,000 Lake George House Fire Called Accidential
Friday, April 24, 2009

(LAKE GEORGE) - A fire which broke out in the basement of a home in the Jamestown Addition on Lake George yesterday afternoon is being called accidential in nature. The blaze at the Craig Skeens residence on 744 North was reported at about 2:25 and called under control about 50 minutes later. After making the initial entry, firefighters were stopped when a large hole burnt through the floor and the front of the residence. Fremont firefighters got mutual aide from the Angola, Orland, Montgomery, Michigan and Pleasant Lake fire departments. Hamilton firefighters were called in to cover the Fremont station. Metz firefighters were also called up on standby. No injuries were reported and damage was estimated at $50,000. Fremont Fire Department Medical Officer Brett Steele says while the fire was accidential, investigators can not count out it being caused by the electrical system or the water heater in the home.

Annis Convicted Of Three Charges
Friday, April 24, 2009

(ANGOLA) - An Angola man was convicted of two charges and pled guilty to another one Thursday afternoon in Steuben Superior Court. A six member jury found 29-year-old Michael Annis guilty of a Class A misdemeanor of marijuana possession and a Class D felony of being an habitual traffic offender. After the jury left the courtroom, Annis pled guilty to an enhanced Class D felony charge of possession of marijuana with a prior conviction going back to a 1999 case. Judge William Fee scheduled a sentencing hearing for June 8th. Annis is scheduled to go on trial May 7th on a Class A felony of dealing in methamphetamine and five misdemeanor charges of purchasing over three grams of precursors. Pre-trial conferences in those cases are scheduled for Monday.

Piatek Found Innocent By Magistrates Court Jury
Friday, April 24, 2009

(ANGOLA) - An Angola man was found not guilty on a pair of charges Friday afternoon in Magistrates Court that were filed by Steuben County Prosecutors in connection with what Angola Police called a car-pedestrian accident on Harcourt Road near Wohlert Street in February of 2007. After over two days of testimony and arguments, it took the jury less than an hour to find 44-year-old David Piatek not guilty