City and County Officials Set Wednesday Meeting to Discuss Funding on Former Dana Site
Monday, January 5, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Steuben County and Angola city officials generally agreed this afternoon that the time for talking about a solution to the pollution problem at the former Dana Weatherhead site is over. They decided during today's Steuben County Commissioners meeting to gather again Wednesday afternoon at 3:00 to begin hashing out how much everybody's economic share will be. Univertical has been operating at the site since the mid 90's after Dana left Angola. The Indiana Department of Enviromental Management told Dana to take care of the enviromental contamination but Dana's responsibility for the clean up ended when it went into bankruptcy. Discussions have been going on with Univertical for the past two years in hopes the company will not leave Angola because of the enviromental situation. Angola Mayor Dick Hickman proposed this afternoon that everybody contribute an equal amount of money towards the clean up project. Commissioner Jim Crowl said they could not commint to anything until the County Council comes up with a dollar figure which could include the use of Major Moves money. There was a disagreement between County Commissioner Ron Smith and City Council member Dave Martin on whether a committee made up of county and city representatives should meet in private at first and then report back to the various governing bodies. Smith was opposed to that idea and it was eventually agreed to have the Commissioners, the County Council and city officials meet again on Wednesday. County Commission Chair Mayo Sanders said a final solution has to be found soon so that Univertical can move forward with future plans. The cost of the clean up has been pegged at anywhere between $5.5 million and $7.5 million with Univertical pledging to contribute $1 million towards the project.

One Person Burned In Millgrove Township Fire
Monday, January 5, 2009

(MILLGROVE TOWNSHIP) - One person was burned yesterday afternoon when a fire spread from an S.U.V. and up the side of a home near Orland. Orland volunteer firefighters responded to the Mike and Sara Zimmer residence at 7080 West Orland Road at about 1:30 on a report of a vehicle on fire in a garage under the house. Orland Fire Department Public Information Officer Kim Norton says there was heavy fire under a deck where the vehicle was parked and up the side of the 2 1/2 story house when firefighters arrived at the home. The fire was determined to be accidental in origin and it took about a half hour to get the flames under control. Units from Angola, Fremont, and Salem Center fire departments assisted Orland at the scene. The person who was burned was a resident of the home. He was taken to Cameron Hospital by private vehicle for treatment of burns to his hand. His name and age were not released. There were no other injuries. Norton says if the fire had happened during the morning hours when the roads were icy, it probably would have been a different outcome since the response time would have been longer. Damages were estimated near $60,000. The S.U.V. was a total loss. Orland firefighters were also assisted by Steuben County E.M.S., the Steuben County Sheriffs Department and Steuben County Communications.

Kendallville Meth Lab Fire Severly Burns Man
Monday, January 5, 2009

(KENDALLVILLE) - One person was burned Saturday morning when a fire that may have been caused by a methamphetamine lab broke out in a Kendallville home. Firefighters responded to the 600 block of East North Street at about 5:40 and found 29-year-old Adam Hart of Kendallville walking down the driveway with severe burns to his upper body. Hart told firefighters a meth lab in the bedroom exploded. He was taken to the St. Joseph Medical Center Burn Unit. Three other adults inside the house got out safely. As of this morning, no arrests have been made according to a police dispatcher, but charges were pending.

Cameron Hospital Announces First Baby of 2009
Monday, January 5, 2009

(ANGOLA) - It took five days but Steuben County's first baby of 2009 was born this morning at Cameron Hospital. Jacob Jeremiah Foreman was born at 9:28am. He weighed seven pounds, seven ounces and was 19 1/2 inches in length. His parents are Josee Gorman and Josh Freeman from Fremont. Numerous retailers donated gifts which will be awarded to the family.

Lutheran Air Called to Toll Road Crash Near Orland
Monday, January 5, 2009

(ORLAND) - Five people were injured late this morning in a rollover accident on the westbound side of the Indiana Toll Road near Orland. One person was flown from the scene by Lutheran Air. An Indiana State Police spokesperson says none of the injuries appear to be life threatening. The crash took place near the 136 mile marker at about 11:00am. Besides Lutheran Air, the Indiana State Police and rescue crews from Steuben and LaGrange Counties were dispatched.

Six Arrested in Wolcotville Drug Sting
Monday, January 5, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - Indiana State Police arrested six people during a drug investigation near Wolcottville on Sunday morning. 56-year-old Mahlon Yoder of Wolcottville was arrested on charges of dealing a controlled substance, possession of meth and maintaining a common nuisance. 31-year-old Amanda Ward of Sturgis was charged with possession of methamphetamine and visiting a common nuisance. Four others were charged with visiting a common nuisances. They are: 40-year-old Emmanuel Schwartz of Ligonier, 32-year-old Jeremy Fuller of Sturgis, 26-year-old William Yoder of Orland, and 26-year-old Amanda Lower of LaGrange. All six were lodged in the LaGrange County Jail. Trooper Brandon Davenport and Wolcottville officers Ryan Kauffman and Earl Rose went to the residence at 0820-West 590-South after receiving information that meth was being made there. When they arrived they detected odors associated with manufacturing meth. A search warrant led to the discovery of what was described as a meth lab along with numerous pills and powders. The state police clandestine lab team was called in to process the scene.

Sturgis Woman Assaulted, Suspect Still At Large

(STURGIS) - Sturgis Police say someone broke into a home in the 300 block of North Clay Street on Saturday evening and assaulted a 63-year-old woman. The victim suffered a severe head wound during the attack and was taken to Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo. The incident happened around 7:20pm. Anyone with information is asked to call the Sturgis Police Department 269-651-3231.

Man Killed in Elkhart County Car-Train Collision
Monday, January 5, 2009

(DUNLAP) - A Goshen man died this morning after driving around the stop arms at a railroad crossing in Dunlap. 48-year-old Timothy Beach’s car was struck by a train. Beach was extricated from the wreckage and flown to Parkview Hospital where he was pronounced dead. The Elkhart County Sheriff’s Department says the crash happened around 5:35 a.m. on County Road 15 between County Road 45 and U-S 33.

Union City Robbery Suspect Arraigned
Monday, January 5, 2009

(COLDWATER) - A suspect in last Friday nights robbery of Miller's Pharmacy in Union City was arraigned this afternoon in Branch County District Court. 44 year old John Henry Chaney was charged with armed robbery which carries a life prison sentence in Michigan. His bond was set at $250,000 by Branch County District Court Judge Brent Weigle. Authorities say a man with a scarf on his face walked into the pharmacy at about 6:00 last Friday and demanded money after displaying a knife. The robber got away on foot with about $500 in cash. Chaney was arrested about two hours later after police were able to trace a phone call made to the pharmacy just before the robbery took place.

Vehicle Destroyed in Gilead Township Garage Fire
Monday, January 5, 2009

(GILEAD TOWNSHIP) - A possible electrical short in the engine area of a car is being listed as the cause of a garage fire last night in Branch County's Gilead Township. Bronson Fire Department Deputy Chief Ken Stutzman says they were called to the Kenneth Bir residence on West Southern Road at about 8:20. The car was called a total loss. Damage was estimated at $7,000. No injuries were reported. Firefighters were on the scene for about 90 minutes.

Indiana Main Street Presentation to be Made in Fremont
Saturday, January 3, 2009

(FREMONT) - A power point presentation on the Indiana Main Street Program will be made at the Fremont Town Hall on Wednesday afternoon starting at 4:00. The Fremont Chamber of Commerce and the town of Fremont will be hosting the presentation. Shae Young from the Main Street Program and Keith Gillenwater from Community and Rural Affairs are scheduled to be on hand. Over 70 communities including LaGrange have joined the program which is administered by the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs. The program is designed to provide economic revitalization to downtown areas.

North Lake Manor Apartment Fire Under Investigation
Saturday, January 3, 2009

(ANGOLA) - A fire that broke out this morning in an apartment at North Lake Manor is under investigation. Angola Fire Department Public Information Officer T.R. Hagerty says the blaze at 114 Ivywood Court was reported at about 9:40am. The brick building where the fire broke out has four apartments. Hagerty says there was heavy fire and smoke blowing out the window on the Ivywood Court side of the building when the first units arrived on the scene. It took about a half hour to call the fire under control. All of the damage was contained to the apartment where the fire broke out. The occupant of the apartment was listed by the Angola Fire Department as Diana Wright. The building is owned by the Angola Housing Authority. Residents in two neighboring apartments were forced out for awhile by the fire. No injuries were reported. Fremont firefighters assisted Angola crews at the scene while Pleasant Lake firefighters were called up on standby.

Happy New Year? Gas Prices Jump by 20 Cents A Gallon
Friday, January 2, 2009

(UNDATED) - Hopefully you filled your gas tank at the end of 2008 because gas prices have spiked by almost 20 cents a gallon as we start 2009. Gas was selling for as high as $1.85 in Angola this morning. Many stations around northeast Indiana have also raised prices by almost a quarter a gallon last night. The web site Indianagasprices.com reports the average price of gas in Indiana has gone up by almost ten cents a gallon since Thursday. It is now averaging $1.80. Just a week ago, the average price in Indiana was $1.53. CNN-Money.com reports the price of oil jumped Wednesday as investors responded to news of a possible supply disruption in Europe. They are also reporting that some analysts are expecting gas prices to level off and find a middle ground in 2009 after the wild fluctuations of the past year.

Howe Woman Killed in Tennessee
Friday, January 2, 2009

(MEMPHIS) - A Howe woman died on Christmas Eve after being struck by a vehicle in Tennessee. 40-year-old Mary Owlsey was struck while crossing a street in Memphis. She was a former employee of Multiplex in LaGrange. Owsley’s funeral will be Monday at 1:00pm at the Ontario Congregational Church.

New Year Brings Judicial Changes in Branch County
Friday, January 2, 2009

(COLDWATER) - 2009 has brought several changes in the Branch County Courthouse. Brent Weigle is the new District Court Judge after serving previously as the County Magistrate. Weigle replaces David Coyle who had served as District Court Judge for 30 years. Meanwhile, William O'Grady is the new judge of the Branch County Circuit Court. He replaces Michael Cherry who retired after being on the bench for nearly 24 years.

Kendallville Hosts Foreclosure Prevention Workshop
Friday, January 2, 2009

(KENDALLVILLE) - One sign of the times, the City of Kendallville is hosting a home foreclosure prevention workshop next Tuesday night. Community Connections, a division of Pathfinder Services, will present the workshop at 6:00pm in the Kendallville City Council Chambers at City Hall, according to Mayor Suzanne Handshoe. According to its website, Community Connections offers one on one counseling, budgeting assistance, and assistance in contacting lenders to renegotiate loans. The program serves several northeast Indiana counties, including LaGrange, Noble, Steuben and DeKalb.

ITR and Fire Departments Disagree on Proposed Bill
Friday, January 2, 2009

(INDIANAPOLIS) - (AP) - The private operator of the Indiana Toll Road would have to pay fire departments for responding to crashes under a proposed bill. The State Fire Marshalls office is recommending a $250 fee per response vehicle or $100 for a control vehicle in an initial response. Clay Township Fire Chief Timm Schabbel says his department is called to accidents on the Toll Road several times a month and has to call in off-duty personnel to staff the fire station whenever they are dispatched. ITR spokesman Matt Pierce says the fire departments should bill the person who causes an accident. But, Schabbel says small fire departments do not have the resources to do that.

Annual Polar Bear Plunge Today in Hamilton
Wednesday, December 31, 2008

(HAMILTON) - It was near 20 degrees with a wind chill of about five above zero this afternoon, what a lovely day to go swimming. Once again, nearly 150 people braved the chilly waters of Hamilton Lake this afternoon for the Hamilton Lions Club annual Polar Bear Plunge. The event attracts people of all ages from all over the area. Some were doing it for the first time, others like Hamilton's Jack Gibson have made this an annual event. Hamilton firefighters had to cut through about ten inches of ice to open up a space in the Millpond. Weenee buttons were sold by Lions Club members who decided to stay on dry land. The money raised from the Polar Bear Plunge will go towards various Hamilton Lions Club community projects.

K-B Toys in the Outlet Malls Closing
Wednesday, December 31, 2008

(FREMONT) - No Christmas miracles for some retailers. The fallout due to the bad economic conditions continues. Employees at the K-B Toys store in the Fremont Outlet Mall say the store will close sometime in January or February. Close out sales are now being held. K-B Toys filed for bankruptcy protection in the weeks prior to Christmas.

Ivy Tech Announces Spending Cuts
Wednesday, December 31, 2008

(LAFAYETTE) - (AP) - Ivy Tech Community College is joining other state colleges and universities in cutting back on spending because of Indiana's revenue shortfall. Ivy Tech President Thomas Snyder is asking 35 of the school's senior administrators to freeze their salaries through 2009. Snyder says the college is also looking for ways to save money at campuses across the state without lowering faculty and staff salaries or
raising tuition. The state estimates a $763 million gap between spending and revenues during the current fiscal year, and Gov. Mitch Daniels has announced funding cuts for state agencies including colleges. Indiana, Purdue, Ball State and Indiana State universities have already announced measures officials hope will save money.

Bronson Native Death Prompts More Safety Vests
Wednesday, December 31, 2008

(BLOOMINGTON) - The death of a 1999 Bronson High School graduate has prompted Monroe County officials to order 180 new safety vests for sheriff's deputies. 27 year old Sarah Jones, whose maiden name was Sarah Haylett, was working for the Monroe County Sheriffs Department when she was struck by a vehicle in October as she was directing traffic west of Bloomington. The county is ordering the vests to avoid paying a $4,500 fine from the Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Administration for what was called a "serious violation" in Jones' death. She was not wearing a reflective vest when the accident took place. Jones died two days later.

Clinton and Obama Visits Picked by WLKI News as Top Local Story of 2008
Wednesday, December 31, 2008

(UNDATED) - 2008 was a year in which a former president and a future president both visited Steuben County and that's been determined by the news department at WLKI as top story of the year. Bill Clinton became the first former President to visit Angola on May 3rd as he made a campaign stop at the Angola Middle School gymnasium on behalf of his wife Hillary just a few days before the Indiana Primary. His wife carried Indiana but by a small margin. That combined with Barack Obama's big win in North Carolina sealed the Democratic Party Presidential nomination for Obama. Just a few days after the Democratic National Convention, Obama and running mate Joe Biden along with their wives made a surprise stop at the Pier 32 restaurant near Hamilton. They spent nearly an hour talking with surprised diners who had no idea the Democratic ticket was going to make the stop as their bus tour was traveling from Toledo to Battle Creek. Obama later became the first Democratic candidate to carry Indiana since 1964. In other top stories we covered in 2008,

* Tri State University became Trine University on August 1st.
* Health issues forced long time State Senator Bob Meeks to retire.
* Kohls Department Store officially open in Angola on October 1st.
* Angry rate payers in the Steuben Lakes Regional Waste District let the District board know how they felt another rate increase in November.
* There was a setback for a proposed sewer district in the southern part of Steuben County when the County Council rejected a request from the County Commissioners for $3,300 in Major Moves for a study into the possibility of having such a district.
* A downtown Angola revitalization project got a big shot in the arm when a federal grant of over $500,000 was awarded. Fundraising for the local match of $250,000 will take place in 2009.
* The largest in a series of suspicious barn fires took place October 15th when nearly two dozen departments spent almost 13 hours trying to put out a hay barn fire at the Konrad Hay Farms on U.S. 20 at 700 East. The loss was estimated at over $400,000.
* Speculation about the future of Cameron Hospital ends as officials decide to build a new facility at its current location on East Maumee.
* Work on the long-awaited bike trail that will hook Angola up with Pokagon State Park gets underway.

Court Rules Death Penalty Can Be Reinstated in Corcoran Case
Wednesday, December 31, 2008

(CHICAGO) - (AP) - A federal appeals court ruled today that Indiana can reinstate the death penalty against a convicted quadruple-killer who used to live in Steuben County. Last year, the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago heard arguments about whether Joseph E. Corcoran's death sentence should be overturned. His attorneys questioned whether Corcoran was mentally competent when he waived his right to a court review of his death sentence for the 1997 fatal shootings of his brother and three other men at a home in Fort Wayne. Corcoran later recanted that decision. His attorneys also questioned whether his constitutional rights were violated when prosecutors offered to take the death penalty off the table if Corcoran agreed to a bench trial rather than a jury trial. In today's decision, the 7th Circuit ruled that Corcoran's rights were not violated.

Local Store Donates Ladder to Tibbits
Wednesday, December 31, 2008

(COLDWATER) - The Home Depot Store in Coldwater recently donated a 12 foot step ladder to the Tibbits Opera House. The ladder had been on a wish list for the past year on the theatre's web site. The fiberglass and aluminum ladder will have more uses thanks to its lighter weight and it will allow crews to set and focus lights more safely.

Power Companies Urge Caution Near Power Lines During Winter Months
Wednesday, December 31, 2008

(UNDATED) – The weather conditions of the past couple of weeks should serve as a reminder about downed power lines. Low hanging tree branches or bushes heavy with snow or ice may be touching or getting close to overhead power lines. High winds can also move limbs around and cause them to pull down power lines. Power company officials are reminding everyone to be alert to possible hazards involving electric power lines and tree branches during the winter months. If you should see a downed or low hanging power line or have a situation with tree branches in the way of a line, contact your power company or the proper authorities.

Kurtz To Take Oath of Office on Friday Morning
Wednesday, December 31, 2008

(COLDWATER) – A special ceremony will be held Friday morning as newly elected Michigan State Representative Kenneth Kurtz will take his oath of office. The Coldwater resident was elected to serve the 58th District in the Michigan House, which covers Branch and Hillsdale Counties. Residents of the district are invited to the swearing in ceremony which will start at 9:00am in the Branch County Courthouse.

Bad Weather and Christmas Cost National Serv-All Three Collection Days
Tuesday, December 30, 2008

(UNDATED) - Officials at National Serv-All say their crews lost three days of collections late last week because of the adverse weather conditions and the Christmas holiday. Last Friday's icy conditions prevented trucks from making collections in parts of Angola where collections were already pushed back one day because of Christmas. Crews are currently working on regular collection schedules this week as officials say it is not possible to go back and make up that many lost days of collections and still maintain current work schedules for all of the counties, cities and towns they serve. National Serv-All is asking that everyone in Angola place all of their trash and recyclables out for normal collections this week. They expect to collect everything by the end of the day on Saturday. Normal Wednesday collection will be held tomorrow but due to the New Years Day holiday, Thursday collections this week will be made on Friday.

SLRWD Board To Discuss Employee Retirement Plan, Remonstrance Hearing Date Changed
Tuesday, December 30, 2008

(FLINT) - The Steuben Lakes Regional Waste District Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting tonight at 6:00 to discuss retirement benefits for district employees. A retirement program approved by the board was criticized by some district customers as an ordinance which called for an increase in monthly rates was passed last month. Some felt the rates were being increased to help pay for the retirement plan. District officials say money to buy into the plan came from the recent sale of properties. Meanwhile, there has been a change in next weeks public hearing that will be hosted by Steuben County Commissioners on objections concerning the recent rate increase. Remonstrators filed the required number of petition signatures for the hearing which will now be held next Wednesday night, January 7th, at 6:00 in the Steuben County Community Center's Dale Hughes Auditorium. The hearing was originally scheduled for next Monday night but the date was changed following a request from lawyers representing the accounting firm of H.J. Umbaugh and Associates.

Auburn Police Sgt. Honored For Investigating Illegal Drugs
Tuesday, December 30, 2008

(AUBURN) - A veteran member of the Auburn Police Department has been named as the "Officer of the Year" by the DeKalb County Fraternal Order of Police. Sgt. Thomas Weicht was cited for his investigation work into the illegal purchase of Ephedrine and Pseudoephedrine in the Auburn area. Those are two of the key ingredients in the manufacture of methamphetamine. Auburn Police Chief Martin McCoy says Weicht researched numerous log books which contained thousands of names from retailers who sell over the counter cold medicine. McCoy says Weicht's efforts have resulted in the arrest of over 100 persons suspected of illegally buying ephedrine. Weicht has been a member of the Auburn Police Department for 16 years.

County and Angola Officials to Discuss Dana Weatherhead Clean Up Options
Tuesday, December 30, 2008

(ANGOLA) - Steuben County Commissioners have invited Angola Mayor Dick Hickman and other city officials to next Mondays Commissioners meeting to discuss funding options for the Indiana Department of Enviromental Management's remediation plan concerning the soil contamination at the former Dana Weatherhead site. The matter is scheduled to be discussed at 2:15. IDEM Commissioner Thomas Easterly presented several clean up options during the December 18th Commissioners meeting. He said the site where the Univertical plant is now located is heavily contaminated and that groundwater there is unusable. With Univertical pledging $1 million towards the clean up, it's estimated the local share would come to $6.4 million. IDEM officials estimate the cost for the entire project will be about $7.5 million.

Bench Trial to Resume Monday in McNaughton Loan Case
Tuesday, December 30, 2008

(ANGOLA) - A Steuben Circuit Court bench trial involving an alleged sham loan made by former First National Bank of Fremont owner Earl Ford McNaughton is scheduled to resume on Monday. Two days of testimony concluded this morning in the case involving American Heritage Collectors and Bill and Joanne Cranston. Court officials have blocked off another day for the trial. Originally, five days were cleared off the court calendar for the complicated case before lawyers agreed to trim testimony down to three days. Circuit Judge Allen Wheat is expected to take the case under advisement on Monday before issuing a ruling at a later time. American Heritage and the Cranstons have filed suit against one another as part of legal manuevers that have gone on for nearly two years. The case finally went to trial nearly four years after McNaughton's downfall over a series of alleged bad loans. The alleged loan scheme involving McNaughton and other former bank officials eventually led to First National Bank of Fremont being sold to Farmers State Bank in 2005.

Fire Causes Extensive Damage to Plato Home
Tuesday, December 30, 2008

(PLATO) - A house fire near Plato in LaGrange County caused extensive damage but no injuries early this morning. LaGrange firefighters were called to the home of Jeremy and Cecelia Nuzum on County Road 500 East at 2:13 a.m. Fire Chief Matt Huffman said the fire heavily damaged the exterior of the home by climbing up the siding to the attic. It took firefighters just over two hours to control the fire and they remained at the scene until almost 8:30. The residents were not home at the time. Mongo and Howe fire departments assisted at the scene and the Topeka fire department is assisting with the investigation of the fire’s cause. The LaGrange County Sheriff’s Department, County Highway and EMS also assisted at the scene.

Shaver Resigns as LaGrange County Building Commissioner
Tuesday, December 30, 2008

(LAGRANGE) - LaGrange County will begin 2009 without a building commissioner. LaGrange County Commissioners have revealed that Mark Shaver has resigned from the position. The resignation follows action by the LaGrange County Council that cut from the budget the position of Special Projects Manager that Shaver held. Commission President Phil Curtis says the decision to leave was Shaver’s. Curtis says he’s taken on some of Shaver’s workload himself, and is working with Kendallville to use their personnel for commercial building inspections. Commissioners George Bachman and Roger Boots favored letting Shaver’s position go unfilled for now. Shaver was the Steuben County Building Commissioner before taking the job in LaGrange County.

Fremont Looking Into Farmers Market
Tuesday, December 30, 2008

(FREMONT) - A Farmers Market could be in the future for the Town of Fremont. The Fremont Town Council gave their approval this morning to have town officials look further into possibly having a Farmers Market at the Town Park Pavillion on Saturday mornings from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. The action came as the Council took care of mostly routine end of the year matters. Further details on a Farmers Market would have to be worked out. More discussion is expected during the Town Council's January 20th meeting.

Everage Leases Angola Motor Speedway For 2009
Monday, December 29, 2009

(ANGOLA) - Officials at Angola Motor Speedway say the track will be open in 2009 despite a lot of local rumors that the facility was closing. Craig Everage, who owns Everage Auto and Everage Motor Sports, will lease the track from owners Dick and Jackie Poe just like he did in 2007. Unlike in the past, the track will not have racing every Saturday night. Instead, there will be nine scheduled events with the first one on May 2nd. A complete schedule can be found at the tracks web site, angolamotorspeedway.com. Everage says Everage Motorsports will be in control of the Wide Open Tour and that the 2009 season will be the best ever in the history of the speedway. He adds it's time to take advantage of other tracks cutting back. The track first opened in 1964. It has been owned by Dick and Jackie Poe since 1993.

Strong Winds End Wacky Week of Weather, WWTP Reports C.S.O.
Monday, December 29, 2009

(UNDATED) - A wild week of weather which featured an ice storm, snow, freezing rain, fog and thunderstorms wrapped up yesterday with strong winds. Some scattered power outages were reported in northeast Indiana but a lot of Michigan residents got knocked into the dark. Winds of over 60 miles an hour cut power to about 413,000 homes and businesses. Meanwhile, Angola Wastewater Department Superintendent Craig Williams says the sixth combined sewer overflow of the year at the Angola Wastewater Plant took place over the weekend thanks to the combination of melting snow and heavy rain which measured three inches. He says the C.S.O. between 11:00 Saturday night and 9:30 yesterday morning measured over 801,000 gallons. Because of the C.S.O., officials say the water quality downstream from the plant maybe affected for up to 72 hours.

Vehicle Hits Porch Near Waterloo, Police Looking For Driver
Monday, December 29, 2009

(WATERLOO) - DeKalb County Police are looking for the driver of a vehicle which struck the porch of a house near Waterloo this morning. According to the Sheriff's Department, the driver lost control at the intersection of County Roads 28 and 23 just after 7:00. The road was described as being frost-covered at the time of the accident. The vehicle slid sideways into a residential yard and front porch of a home. The driver then left the scene heading west on County Road 28. The homeowner told police the vehicle was occupied by a female whose age or physical description was unknown. Police think the vehicle was black after they found pieces of the front bumper. Damage to the home was estimated at $2,500. Anyone with information as to the driver or the vehicle is asked to call the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office at 925-3365.

LaGrange County Council Turns Down Pay Raises
Monday, December 29, 2009

(LAGRANGE) - LaGrange County Council members joined the county commissioners in turning down a pay raise budgeted for next year. During a brief year-end meeting this morning, the council also adopted a salary ordinance amendment that adjusted pay rates within the animal control department, with no net increase. The council also made several board appointments for the new year.

Professional Fabricators Moving to New Angola Location
Monday, December 29, 2009

(ANGOLA) - An Angola business will be changing locations as part of a 2009 expansion. Professional Fabricators, otherwise known as "Pro-Fab", is moving from 1500 Wohlert Street to a new location on Pokagon Trail that will be almost 20 times its current facility size. The relocation is expected to be finished by February 20th. Professional Fabricators is a miscellaneous steel fabricator whose primary business is serving the construction, manufacturing and industrial businesses throughout Northeast Indiana, Western Ohio and Southern Michigan. Company founder Dave Schlegel says the move will allow them to serve current and future customers better. He points out the new facility is now large enough so every project can be completed inside and free from outside elements. Along with the increased building capacity, Pro-Fab will also be expanding their daily processing equipment.

Rain, Fog, Wind, and then Snow...
Saturday, December 27th, 2008

(UNDATED) - Today's weather headlines are possible flooding and strong winds. The National Weather Service has posted a flood watch through Sunday morning and a high wind advisory through Sunday afternoon. Showers and thunderstorms are expected to produce heavy rainfall on top of the melting snow and ice pack today and tonight. The Flood Watch continues for portions of northwest Ohio, northern Indiana and southwest Michigan. Through Sunday morning heavy rainfall is expected across the watch area today and tonight as a strong low-pressure system moves across the upper Midwest and Great Lakes through Sunday. Total rainfall amounts from 1 to 2 inches are expected and will combine with melt from existing snow and ice cover to increase the risk for flooding over the watch area. Low lying and poor drainage areas will likely flood...with river flooding developing on Monday and beyond. In addition rapid rises on streams...creeks and rivers are likely and ice jams may occur which will further increase the likelihood for flooding. A Flood Watch means there is a potential for flooding based on current forecasts. You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible flood warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.

The National Weather Service issued a Wind Advisory that is in effect from 1 PM EST Saturday afternoon to 1 PM EST Sunday. South winds will increase to 25 to 30 mph with gusts to 45 mph this afternoon. The winds will become southwest overnight...and then diminish Sunday afternoon. A Wind Advisory means that sustained winds of 30 mph or higher or wind gusts of 45 mph or more are expected. Winds this strong can make driving difficult especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution.

Angola Man Dies From Snowmobile Crash Injuries
Saturday, December 27, 2008

(ANGOLA) - An Angola man died on Tuesday from injuries he suffered last weekend in a snowmobile accident near Nevada Mills Road and County Road 300 West. 31 year old Trenton Dove passed away at Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne. Indiana Conservation Officers say he was rushed there with head injuries early last Sunday morning after his snowmobile crashed into a tree. Services were held on Saturday at the Beams Funeral Home in Fremont. Dove was an Army veteran and a member of the Indiana National Guard. Among his survivors are his wife and two children.

Seven Traffic Deaths in Indiana on Friday
Saturday, December 27th, 2008

(SOUTH BEND, IN - AP) - Freezing rain, hail and icy roads are being blamed for seven traffic deaths across Indiana. Police say two crashes near Lafayette killed four people yesterday. Three others died in a pair of crashes on icy Indiana 37 in the suburbs north of Indianapolis. And a fire engine crashed head-on into a tree on the northwest side of Indianapolis, sending four firefighters to a hospital with minor injuries.

Elkhart County's Unemployed Angered with State
Saturday, December 27th, 2008

(ELKHART, IN - AP) - Many people in Elkhart County say they've had problems seeking unemployment benefits from state offices. Some people complain that the state's unemployment Web site is difficult to navigate. Others say vouchers have not been mailed on time or that unemployment benefits are not being uploaded to their debit cards. Some say staffers at the WorkOne office in Elkhart can't always answer their questions. The northern Indiana county has the state's highest jobless rate after big layoffs in the recreational vehicle industry. Elkhart County's unemployment rate for November was 12.4 percent. A spokesman for Gov. Mitch Daniels says Daniels wants to make sure the state is providing essential services as efficiently as possible. The Elkhart office has tried to help unemployed workers by extending hours and hiring additional staff members.

More Weather Challenges, Flood Watch Issued For The Weekend
Friday, December 26, 2008

(NORTH WEBSTER) - The weather challenges continue. A freezing rain advisory expired at 10:00 Friday morning but this mornings frozen precipitation has left behind a giant skating rink. There were plenty of driving headaches again this morning as roads were described as a sheet of ice. Speeds were greatly reduced and traffic came to a stop at some locations. At least three accidents were reported on I-69 in Steuben County between 7:00am and 8:00am including a jacknifed semi at the Crooked Lake exit. If this miserable weather os not bad enough, the National Weather Service has issued a flood watch from tomorrow morning through Sunday morning. Forecasters say heavy rainfall of between one to two inches is expected. The heavy rain will combine with melting ice and snow to create significant flooding. The weather service says low lying and poor drainage areas will likely flood with river flooding starting on Monday. In addition, rapid rises on streams, creeks and rivers is likely and ice jams may take place. A flood watch means there is a potential for flooding based on current forecasts. You should monitor forecasts and be alert for possible flooding especially if you live in a flood prone area.

Ice Forces Toll Road Shut Down
Friday, December 26, 2008

(UNDATED) - Ice and numerous accidents forced Indiana State Police to shut down the entire length of the Toll Road this morning. State Police Trooper William Jones says the highway was an entire sheet of ice and it was ordered shut down at about 6:30am. It was reopened about three hours later but authorities were still telling people to stay off the roads. Jones says there were more than 50 accidents at one time on the Toll Road. A state highway truck flipped over along U.S. 20 at Rainbow Curve just east of Shipshewana in LaGrange County. The driver reportedly was not injured. A DeKalb County deputy arrived at one pile up near the top of the exit ramp from State Road 8 to I-69 and then crashed as his squad car slid downhill along the length of the ramp. Traffic on I-69 near the Waterloo and Kendallville exit was reported to be at a standstill. In many locations, semis and other vehicles found themselves stuck trying to climb hills.

Level 2 Emergency Lifted for Steuben County After Icy Morning
Friday, December 26, 2008

(ANGOLA) - Authorities in Steuben, DeKalb, Elkhart and Williams Counties declared emergencies today after this mornings freezing rain turned the area into one giant skating rink. A Level 2 Emergency for Steuben County, which called for only essential travel since mid morning, was lifted by authorities just after 4:30 this afternoon. There were numerous accidents this morning and law enforcement agencies had a tough time trying to keep up. Indiana State Police had to shut down a ten mile portion of I-69 just north of Fort Wayne. Despite all of the wrecks, no serious injuries were reported.

After Snow and Ice, How About Some Dense Fog?
Friday, December 26, 2008

(UNDATED) - More difficult driving conditions are expected overnight as the National Weather Service has issued a Dense Fog Advisory from 7:00 tonight until 7:00 tomorrow morning. Forecasters say visibilities of a quarter mile or less are expected tonight in northern Indiana, northwest Ohio and southwest lower Michigan.

Man Burned in Christmas Day Fire
Friday, December 26, 2008

(RAY) - A man suffered burns to his hands yesterday when a Christmas Day fire broke out at a home in Ray. Fremont Fire Chief Eric Hufnagle says the blaze at 7940 North 625 East was reported at 12:40. It took firefighters almost 50 minutes to get the flames under control. He says the home is owned by Frank Bradley and occupied by Jeff Sullins. There was heavy smoke coming from the second story when firefighters arrived. Hufnagle says the fire started in one of the second story bedrooms and it spread throughout the upstairs part of the house. There was also smoke and water damage throughout the house. The man who was burned was not identified. He was taken from the scene by Steuben County E.M.S. to an unidentified hospital. Damage was estimated at $13,000 and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Hufnagle says the fire is not considered to be suspicious in nature. Fremont firefighters were given mutual aide by crews from Angola, Montgomery and Northwest Township. Also assisting at the scene were the Steuben County Sheriffs Department and Steuben County E.M.S.. Orland firefighters were called in to man the Fremont station.

Girl Injured in Sledding Accident
Friday, December 26, 2008

(HAMILTON) - A 7-year-old Angola girl was seriously injured in a sledding accident on Christmas Eve near Hamilton. The Steuben County Sheriff's Department reports the girl was sledding with other family members on the golf course at Cold Spring Resort when she slid down a hill and hit a tree at about 11:40. The girl suffered head and facial injuries and was transported in serious condition to Cameron Hospital. Steuben County E.M.S. along with Hamilton Fire and Police assisted the Sheriff's Department. The Sheriff's Department stated in a news release that the girls name and all other information was being withheld because the victim is a juvenile.

MSP Investigate Fatal Car-Pedestrian Accident In Hillsdale County
Friday, December 26, 2008

(HILLSDALE COUNTY) - A Pittsford woman was killed yesterday evening when she was struck by a car in Hillsdale County's Jefferson Township. Michigan State Police say 31 year old Cary Wessel was walking on Pittsford Road at about 5:45pm when she was hit by a southbound car. Troopers say alcohol or drugs do not appear to be a factor in the accident which is still under investigation. Pittsford firefighters and Reading emergency crews assisted the State Police at the scene.

Steuben County In Line for FEMA Money
Wednesday, December 24, 2008

(UNDATED) - Indiana Senator Richard Lugar's office says Steuben County will get just under $27,000 as part of a federal program to help the hungry and homeless. Indiana communities will share nearly $3.7 million in F.E.M.A. grants as part of the agency's Emergency Food and Shelter Program. Officials say the funds will support social service agencies to help feed and shelter those in need. E.F.S. funds are used to supplement food, shelter, rent, mortgage and utility assistance programs for people with non-disaster related emergencies. As for other northeast Indiana counties, LaGrange County will get just over $28,000 while Noble County will get just over $40,000. The emergency food and shelter funds will go to Community Action of Northeast Indiana.

Warming Temperatures Leave Slushy Mess, Weather Rollercoaster For Balance of Week
Wednesday, December 24, 2008

(UNDATED) - Temperatures climbed above freezing overnight but Christmas Eve drivers are dealing with icy road conditions. The snow and freezing rain that fell last night has turned into slush and motorists should allow extra time to reach destinations. Rain is expected today before a strong cold front brings sharply colder temperatures and change the precipitation back to snow. Ponding of water on roads and sub freezing temperatures late this afternoon and evening will allow roads to refreeze again. Get ready to ride a weather rollercoaster for the rest of this week. The long range forecast is calling for highs in the 40's on Friday and the 50's on Saturday. The rapid snow melt along expected rainfall may lead to some flooding problems this weekend.

Power Restored in Hudson
Wednesday, December 24, 2008

(HUDSON) - For at least the third time since last Friday's ice storm, the power went out in Hudson this morning. This morning's outage lasted about four hours before NIPSCO crews managed to fix the problem. Town Manager Ward Odom says the outage was apparently caused when cross arms broke on a high powered voltage line that feeds the town. In turn, that caused the wires to come in contact with each other. Meanwhile, utility officials say just about everybody in Fort Wayne will get their power back later today. Nearly 8,900 A.E.P. customers were enduring a fifth day without power on Christmas Eve due to the ice storm.

Burst Water Pipe Closes Angola Restaurant Until Late January
Wednesday, December 24, 2008

(ANGOLA) - The Catmandu Restaurant in Angola will be closed at least through the holiday season after a water pipe burst this week when it apparently froze. Kitchen Manager Rob Pennington says the restaurant at North Wayne and 200 North, which used to be known as the 101 Lounge, will likely be closed until the end of January. Clean up crews were spending part of their Christmas Eve trying to take care of the mess that the burst water pipe above the kitchen left behind. It apparently broke sometime late Monday night or early Tuesday morning causing a portion of the ceiling to collapse. The banquet room, kitchen and basement also flooded. The damage was not discovered until yesterday morning.

Slippery Roads Lead to LaGrange County Crashes
Tuesday, December 23, 2008

(UNDATED) - Slick roads contributed to a pair of LaGrange County accidents that injured two people over the last couple of days. 21-year-old Monica Grobis of LaGrange suffered neck and back injuries when she lost control of her vehicle on icy U.S. 20 near LaGrange County Road 400 East. Grobis told police a semi coming towards her was driving in the center of the highway and she swerved to avoid hitting it. The crash happened just after 2:00 this morning. Meanwhile, Edmund Sweeney Jr. of Angola was also suffered a back injury on U-S 20 on Monday morning. Sweeney was eastbound near 675-West when he lost control on the icy road and hit the rear trailer axle of a truck.

House Fire on North Martha Under Investigation
Tuesday, December 23, 2008

(ANGOLA) - The cause of a house fire last night in the 500 block of North Martha is still under investigation. Angola Fire Department Public Information Officer T.R. Hagerty says it took firefighters about 25 minutes to get the fire at 514 North Martha under control after they were called to the scene at 8:00. The property is owned by Paitek Business Enterprises. Hagerty says the first units on the scene found light smoke coming out the front door and out both ends of the house. Within a few minutes, heavy fire was seen coming out the back bedroom window. Firefighters managed to knock the fire down and it was placed under control at 8:25. No human injuries were reported but a dog perished in the fire. Efforts to revive the animal were unsuccessful. A damage estimate has not been totaled up. Fremont firefighters assisted at the scene. Pleasant Lake firefighters stood by at the Angola station. Also assisting were Steuben County E.M.S., Angola City Police, the Angola Water Department, the Angola Street Department and the American Red Cross. Firefighters cleared the scene just after 11:30.

You Can Not Be Serious, Yet Another Winter Storm Heads Our Way
Tuesday, December 23, 2008

(UNDATED) - If the forecast from the National Weather Service is accurate, you might want to consider a sleigh and eight tiny reindeer to get to your holiday destination. Yet another winter storm is expected to hit us today and tomorrow and this one could mess up holiday driving plans for a lot of people. Forecasters have issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the entire WLKI listening area until 7:00pm on Christmas Eve. A mixture of snow, sleet and possibly freezing rain could take place today through tomorrow. Snow and sleet accumulations could total 4 to 8 inches before the precipitation ends on Christmas Eve. A winter weather advisory means that period of snow, sleet and possibly freezing rain will cause travel difficulties. Drivers should be prepared for slippery roads and limited visibilities and use caution while driving.

Angola Man Faces Six Charges Following Weekend Arrest in Hamilton
Tuesday, December 23, 2008

(ANGOLA) - An Angola man is facing six charges including a pair of felonies after he was arrested on Homestead Drive in Hamilton over the weekend. 42 year old Michael David Robbins was taken into custody when authorities say a Hamilton officer saw someone loading scrap metal into a truck. Robbins was charged yesterday with a Class B felony of Possession of Methamphetamine after police say they found the illegal drug in his vehicle during a search. He was also charged with a Class D felony of theft. In addition, Robbins is facing four misdemeanor charges of purchasing over three grams of purcursors within a week. His case will go through Steuben Circuit Court following his initial hearing yesterday. Bond was set at $60,000 and not guilty pleas were entered on his behalf. Robbins to appear for a pre trial conference on March 16th.

Little Lambs Gets $36,000 Grant From Dekko Foundation
Tuesday, December 23, 2008

(FREMONT) - Little Lambs Daycare and Preschool has been given a $36,000 Dekko Foundation grant. Steuben County Community Foundation Executive Director Sharon Stroh says the award was given to Little Lambs partly because of a building campaign that raised $875,000 for the construction of the daycare in Fremont as well as their overall program and continuing dedication to quality child care. Little Lambs is a 501-C non profit corporation led by a Board of Directors made up of Angola and Fremont residents. The center is the only state licensed public childcare center in Steuben County. They accept C.A.N.I. students and officials say they will soon offer a scholarship program for families who qualify.

Angola Man Injured in Snowmobile Accident
Monday, December 22, 2008

(ANGOLA) - An Angola man was hospitalized in critical condition after his snowmobile crashed into a tree just after midnight Sunday. Conservation Officer Rodney Clear says 31-year-old Trenton Dove was operating the snowmobile in a field near Nevada Mills Road and County Road 300 West when he struck the tree. Steuben County E.M.S. took Dove to Cameron Hospital with a head injury. He was then transferred to Parkview in Fort Wayne. Steuben County deputies, along with Angola and Fremont firefighters assisted Conservation Officers at the scene.

Explosion Levels McClish Lake Cottage
Monday, December 22, 2008

(McCLISH LAKE) - An explosion early on Saturday morning leveled one cottage and caused a fire that destroyed a second cottage and damaged a year-round home at McClish Lake in southeast LaGrange County. The blast just after 5:30 woke many nearby residents. Stroh Fire Captain John Rowlison says the cottage that exploded along the south side of the lake was unoccupied. One piece of wood was hurled into the air and embedded itself into the roof of the home next door. Firefighters from several LaGrange and Steuben County departments assisted Stroh firefighters at the scene.

Yet Another Winter Storm Could Be Heading Our Way
Monday, December 22, 2008

(UNDATED) - Old Man Winter is turning into the Grinch who stole Christmas. Folks who had to cancel holiday travel plans over the weekend now may have to re-think driving on Christmas Eve. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for tomorrow night through Wednesday morning. Forecasters say another potent storm system is expected to affect us with the potential for heavy snows and significant icing across portions of the region. Snow is expected to start late Tuesday morning. It is then expected to mix with or change to sleet south of U.S. 30 late Tuesday afternoon, eventually mixing with freezing rain. The mix of precipitation will spread north across the region with mainly snow expected over southern Michigan at this time. Residents to the south of the U.S. 30 corridor could see significant icing of up to a half inch depending on how quick surface temperatures rise above freezing. Further north, snow is expected to possibly mix with sleet or freezing rain at times. Southern Michigan could see snow accumulations of over six inches with some ice accumulations also possible. A slight shift in the storm track will have a large impact on the forecast and the wintry conditions could extend into Christmas Eve. Holiday travelers may want to make alternate plans as this storm approaches.

Youngster Killed in Topeka Sledding Accident
Monday, December 22, 2008

(TOPEKA) - A nine-year-old boy died as a result of a sledding accident in Topeka on Saturday morning. The incident happened at about 11:15 in the 300 block of South Main. Witnesses told police that Dakota Bushong was part of a group of children sledding down the hill at the Topeka Historical property. The youngster was unable to stop his sled from going into the roadway and was struck by vehicle. Dakota was a third grader at Topeka Elementary School. Friends may call Tuesday from 2:00 until 4:00 and from 6:00 until 8:00 at the Topeka Baptist Church. Funeral services at the church will be held on Wednesday morning at 10:30 a.m..

Reyes Sentenced for Sex Crime
Monday, December 22, 2008

(ANGOLA) - A one time youth minister was given a four year sentence this morning in Steuben Superior Court after he pled guilty on October 29th to a Class C felony of Sexual Misconduct with a Minor. The sentence handed down to 41 year old Juan Jose Reyes of Goshen was part of a fixed term plea agreement that Judge William Fee accepted. The judge turned down another plea agreement in the case last January after lawyers could not agree on probation terms. Reyes was ordered to report to jail by noon on Christmas Eve. His request to wait until Friday to report so he could spend Christmas with his family was turned down by Fee who felt it would send an inappropriate message given the nature of the case. Reyes will be allowed to enter into a work release program. The case was originally filed in August of 2006 after an incident that authorities say involved a 15 year old girl.

Burglary Suspect Sentenced
Monday, December 22, 2008

(ANGOLA) - An Angola man was sentenced this morning in Steuben Superior Court for a burglary at an Orland business where he used to work at. 24 year old Seth Danning was given a six year sentence by Judge William Fee after he pled guilty to a Class C felony charge of burglary. Two years of the sentence was suspended and Danning was also placed on probation for two years. The charge was filed in connection with the theft of jewelry and money from a safe at A and B Flooring in October of 2007. Another burglary charge, which was filed as Class B felony, was dismissed as part of the plea agreement. Danning was also ordered to pay over $22,000 in restitution. He was one of seven suspects arrested for various burglaries around Steuben County in the fall of '07. Police got a break in their investigation when they seized 80 grams of marijuana and guns from a home on West Mill Street in Angola.

Four Marines Killed on Toll Road West of South Bend
Monday, December 22, 2008

(NEW CARLISLE) - Indiana State police say four Marines were killed last night when their car crossed the median on an icy Indiana Toll Road west of South Bend and was struck by a semitrailer. The victims were identified as 23-year-old Aaron F. Esposito of Novi, Michigan, 20-year-old Kyle Sporleder of Sylvania, Ohio, 19-year-old Lauren Diefenthaler of Ypsilanti, Mich., and Rodney M. Echelbarger of Holland, Ohio, whose age was not available. Police say the road was snow and ice covered when the car crossed from the eastbound into the westbound lanes and crashed at about 8:15 p.m. last night.

Power Outages and Accidents in Aftermath of Ice Storm
Monday, December 22, 2008

(UNDATED) - Power went out for a time this afternoon in the Hudson and Pleasant Lake areas. This follows an overnight power outage in the Ashley and Hudson area which lasted for over couple of hours. A shelter was being set up at the Helmer United Methodist Church until power was restored shortly after 3:00am. NIPSCO reported late this morning that about 4,000 customers, mostly in northwestern Indiana, were still without electricity from the Friday ice storm. Nearly 130,000 NIPSCO customers were affected by the ice and high winds this weekend. In addition, one person was taken to Cameron Hospital with non-life threatening injuries after a pickup truck rolled over on I-69 near the 145 mile marker at around noon. Rescue crews had to free the injured person from the vehicle. Indiana State Police are investigating the accident. Slick spots along I-69 in Steuben and DeKalb Counties caused by the weekend weather resulted in numerous slide offs but no serious injuries.

Study Finds More Kids Eligible for Free Or Reduced-Price School Lunches
Monday, December 22, 2008

(UNDATED) - Youngsters in northeast Indiana are feeling the early effects of the recession as more of them were eligible for free or reduced-priced school lunches this past year. The 2008 Kids Count in Indiana Data Book was released yesterday by the Indiana Youth Institute. The number of Steuben County students eligible for free or reduced-price lunches went up from 32.6% in 2006-2007 to 33.7% in 2007-2008. Other northeast Indiana counties saw higher increases. DeKalb County went from 28.6% to 33.2%, LaGrange County went from 31.7% to 34.3% and Noble County went from 40.9% to 43%. The data in the report measures a number of areas such as poverty, health and birth rate. Among other indicators in the report, the number of children enrolled in the Hoosier Healthwise state medical plan rose by nearly 9,000 children from 2006 to 2007.

Bitter Cold Adds To Weather Misery
Sunday, December 21, 2008

(UNDATED) - Today is officially the first day of winter and Old Man Winter continues to be on Santa's naughty list. Bitter cold air and strong winds are combining to make just being outside a difficult experience. The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Chill Warning until 1:00 on Monday afternoon. In addition, a Winter Weather Advisory for snow and blowing snow is in effect until 10:00 Monday morning. Forecasters say bitter cold temperatures between five above to near five below zero combined with strong winds of 25 to 35 miles an hour will create wind chills between 15 below and 30 below zero on Sunday into Monday morning. Frostbite could take place if you go outside and do not take the proper precautions such as covering up all exposed skin areas. The strong winds are also creating blowing snow and difficult driving conditions. There is a chance for more snow this afternoon and tonight which will hamper travel and make conditions even worse. The chances for accumulating snow will be greater north of U.S. 6, closer to the Indiana, Michigan and Ohio state lines. In addition, the strong winds today and tonight will create havoc with trees and power lines already covered with ice from the Friday morning ice storm that hit our area. Wind gusts to around 45 miles an hour will likely bring down additional tree limbs and could cause some trees and power lines to fail. Reports of additional power outages have already been received. Meanwhile, the lake effect snow machine is expected to kick up in parts of northwest Indiana and southwest lower Michigan. Winter Storm Warnings have been posted for that area as four to eight inches of snow with locally heavier amounts expected along with strong winds and blowing and drifting snow.

Trine University Gets $900,000 For Two Projects
Saturday, December 20th, 2008

(ANGOLA) - Officials at Trine University say two supporters have donated nearly $900,000 for building projects, including $500,000 for the T. Furth Center for Performing Arts. Angola native Cliff Ryan and his wife Sigrid will help refurbish the former Angola Christian Church on West Maumee in Angola. The university bought the building last Spring. The contribution from the Ryans will establish the center's Ryan Concert Hall. Ryan graduated from Tri-State College in 1966 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration-accounting. The Ryans have supported the university for many years, including contributing funds to the Vern Jones Scholarship. Meanwhile, the estate of a one-time Tri-State University Trustee and former Angola business owner Carl A. Strock has provided $380,000 for the university’s Zollner Stadium which is currently in the planning stages. Strock passed away on February 29th. He owned a men's clothing store in downtown Angola and was on the university board from 1979 until 1988. He had previously been recognized by the university as a Lifetime Donor for Annual Fund contributions and other donations of over $500,000.

Fremont School Board Approves Agreement with F.C.T.A.
Saturday, December 20th, 2008

(FREMONT) - The Fremont School Board approved a collective bargaining agreement with members of the Fremont Classroom Teachers Association during a brief special meeting on Friday night. Superintendent Ben Roederer said the agreement runs through the 2010-2011 school year with salary increases of 2 1/2% in the first year and 2% in the second year. Negotiations would re-open in the final year of the deal. The vote to approve was 4-0 but Board President Tim Knoblauch said he would like to see performance rewarded instead of longevity in future agreements with the F.C.T.A.. The teachers association approved the three year agreement on Thursday. The ratifications came after the two sides held a lengthy executive session Monday night to hammer out the final details.

Man Drowns in Lagoon
Saturday, December 20th, 2008

(Bluffton, IN) - Indiana Conservation officers are investigating the apparent drowning of a Bluffton man in a Wells County lagoon. According to a news release at approximately 10:00 a.m. Friday Nicholas Cruz, age 23, of Bluffton, Indiana, had been cleaning out a cattle lot and dumping manure into a lagoon located at Sunny Park Dairy, 1718 S. State Road 301. Cruz apparently lost control of the skid loader that he was operating and fell into the lagoon. An employee of Sunny Park discovered Cruz underneath the skid loader. He was then removed from the lagoon by the Wells County Fire Department, and transported to Bluffton Regional Medical Center by Wells County EMS, where he was pronounced dead at 12:25 pm. Cruz was then transported to St. Joseph's Hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where and autopsy was performed to determine the cause of death.

Five Arrested For Theft From Local Department Store
Saturday, December 20th, 2008

(ANGOLA) - An Indiana State Police investigation led to the arrests of five people this week for the alledged theft of items from a local department store since April which totaled between $5,000 and $10,000. Charged with Class D felonies for theft were 21 year old Jamie Nall of Pleasant Lake along with four Angola residents; 65 year old Murlene Fletcher, 41 year old Vickie Lou Brown, 21 year old Samantha Compton and 26 year old Danielle Tink. The Herald-Republican reports Nall was a cashier at the store and that the items in question included clothing, food and computer accesories. State Police say the items were either not scanned or a lesser amount was charged. Initial hearings were held for four of the suspects on Thursday and not guilty pleas were entered on behalf of all of them.

Winter Storm Drops Snow and Ice on Steuben County
Friday, December 19, 2008

(UNDATED) - A winter storm that pounded the area overnight with snow, sleet and ice has moved on but it left behind difficult driving conditions and plenty of power outages. Two inches of snow and sleet accumulated overnight in the Angola area while nearly a half inch of ice accumulation has been reported around Fort Wayne. Winter and ice storm warnings were alowed to expire at midday. While no power outages were reported in Steuben County, things are much worse in Allen County. Over 100,000 homes in that county are without power and authorities were urging residents to postpone unnecessary travel. The American Red Cross of Northeast Indiana has opened shelters at Memorial Coliseum and at Fort Wayne South High School. In Bluffton, the Wells County Emergency Management Office arranged for a shelter at First United Methodist Church. Most flights were cancelled at Fort Wayne International Airport. The storm allowed local students to start their Christmas Break one day earlier than planned. All area school districts scrubbed classes this morning. The four Steuben County districts decided to close before 5:30am.

Full House for Carpenters as Habitat Home is Dedicated
Friday, December 19, 2008

(ANGOLA) - Well-wishers from throughout the community squeezed their way into the new home for Jo Anne Carpenter and her three daughters on Thursday afternoon as Steuben County Habitat for Humanity formally dedicated its second home in Angola. Pastor Tim Terrell from the Angola United Methodist Church blessed the home in the 400 block of Stocker while Stephanie Eckerele from the Assembly of God Church presented a bible to the Carpenter family. The property was donated by Mark Sanborn and he had the honor of presenting the keys to Carpenter who thanked all of those who were involved in the project. Habitat's Larry Keeler noted no one was injured while the house was constructed. In addition, Susie Peck from The Vault in downtown Angola donated numerous items for the house. Habitat for Humanity plans to build their next house during 2009 in Ashley.

SCSD Arrest Two After Finding Marijuana Growing In Fremont Home
Friday, December 19, 2008

(FREMONT) - The Steuben County Sheriff's Department says they arrested two people last night after an indoor marijuana growing operation was found in a Fremont home. 43 year old Paul Gahagan and 43 year old Lauriann Parrish, were arrested for possession of over 30 grams of marijuana, maintaining a common nuisance, neglect of a dependent and possession of paraphernalia after members of the Northeastern Indiana SWAT team served a search warrant at 206 West Pearl. Police say they found the indoor growing operation in the basement of the house. In addition, about seven pounds of marijuana were seized as well as about 100 marijuana plants. Gahagan and Parrish were being held without bond this morning in the Steuben County Jail. A four year old boy was found in the home. He was taken into custody by the Department of Children Services and later released to relatives.

Three Arrested On Meth Charges After 4-Month IMAGE Investigation
Friday, December 19, 2008

(ANGOLA) - Three Angola residents were arrested last night following a four month undercover investigation by the IMAGE Drug Task Force. Taken into custody were 20 year old Kristina Kimpel of Angola, 23 year old Adam Loffer and 18 year old Haley Burrell. Kimpel and Loffer are facing two Class A felony counts of dealing in methamphetamine while Burrel is facing one count of the same charge. An Habitual Offender charge was also filed against Loffer. All three suspects are accused of delivering quantities of meth to an undercover I.M.A.G.E. officer. The alledged transactions took place at the Shell Station on County Road 200 West, in the parking lot of the Fairview Missionary Church, the North Lake Manor Apartments and at the Jiffy Car Wash on West Maumee. Loffer was currently in the Steuben County Jail on charges following the discovery of an alledged meth an October 19th on Lane 275 at Jimmerson Lake. S.W.A.T. Officers had to use tear gas to get 5 people to vacate a detached garage. Officials for the IMAGE Drug Task Force say other warrants as a result of the investigation are expected to be issued soon as charges have been filed with the Steuben County Prosecutor.

Commissioners Agree to Sheriff's Contract, Sign Letter of Intent to Seek HUD Money
Friday, December 19, 2008

(ANGOLA) - Steuben County Commissioners agreed to enter into a one year contract with Sheriff Rick Lewis yesterday which covers items that were discussed during last weeks County Council meeting. Lewis would get a salary of just under $75,400 plus half of the fees collected from tax warrants. He has chosen to keep his health insurance from the Indiana State Police. In other business, the Commissioners agreed to sign a letter of intent to have Region 3-A apply for a $1 million grant for a residential rehabilitation project. The Department of Housing and Urban Development will be distributing $150 million to the State of Indiana for the program. Major cities would get $67 million with smaller communities splitting up the rest.

Steuben County Under Level 3 Weather Watch
Friday, December 19, 2008

(UNDATED) - Under the recently adopted Snow Emergency Ordinance, Steuben County Emergency Director Bill Brown says the county is under a Level 3 Weather Watch. That means routine travel or activities maybe restricted in areas of the county because of hazardous conditions. Citizens are being asked to use caution or avoid those areas. In addition, schools and businesses may begin to implement their emergency action plans.

Hamilton Schools Would Be Affected By Daniels Proposal
Friday, December 19, 2008

(INDIANAPOLIS) - (AP) - The Hamilton School District would be the only one in northeast Indiana that would be forced to consolidate if a proposal by Gov. Mitch Daniels becomes law. The governor plans to recommend to lawmakers that they eliminate Indiana's county commissioner structure in favor of a single county administrator and merge small school districts. Daniels wants to eliminate elections for county treasurers, recorders, assessors, surveyors and coroner. Those jobs would be appointed by the county administrators. Daniels' legislative proposals also will recommend that school districts of fewer than 1,000 students combine their central offices with another unless they already have a countywide district system. He cites education experts who say that districts with fewer than 1,000 students, such as Hamilton, can't provide the opportunities needed for student success. A blue-ribbon state panel led by former Gov. Joe Kernan and Indiana Supreme Court Chief Justice Randall Shepherd had recommended consolidations for school districts with fewer than 2,000 students, which would have taken in many more area districts.

November Unemployment Jumps in Northeast Indiana
Friday, December 19, 2008

(UNDATED) - The national recession is clearly evident in the latest unemployment numbers in northeast Indiana. The Indiana Department of Workforce Development reports all four counties saw an increase of least one percent from the October numbers. LaGrange County had the second highest rate in Indiana at 11.7%. Noble County had the fourth highest rate at 10.9%. Steuben and DeKalb County are tied for the eighth highest rate in Indiana as both were at 9.1%. The Steuben County rate increased from 7.7% in October. In November, Indiana’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 7.1% which was above the national seasonally adjusted rate at 6.7%. The unemployment rate in Michigan is 9.6%. Michigan was followed by Ohio and Illinois at 7.3%. Department of Workforce Development Commissioner Teresa Voors says Indiana, like other manufacturing states, is being hit hard by the impact of the national recession and a severe decline in demand for both durable and non durable goods.

Medical Condition May Have Caused Fatal LaGrange County Wreck
Friday, December 19, 2008

(MILFORD TOWNSHIP) - A medical condition may have caused a rural Wolcottville driver to lose control and crash Thursday afternoon. LaGrange County Sheriff’s deputies say 94-year-old Ormi Kohn was unresponsive when emergency responders arrived and died at the scene. They say she had a history of medical problems. Kohn’s vehicle was southbound on County Road 950-East and struck a road sign at 500-South before coming to rest in a yard.

Officer Memorial Dedicated
Friday, December 19, 2008

(LAGRANGE) - A memorial honoring two members of the LaGrange County Sheriff’s Department who died in the line of duty was unveiled Thursday afternoon. The tall black monument stands along the entrance to the LaGrange County Jail to honor the sacrifices of Deputy Harry Spice and Jail Officer Greg Cushing. Spice died in 1937 after being shot while trying to apprehend a man who held up a LaGrange business. He was 45 years-old and had been a deputy for three years. Cushing died in 1995 when the cage car he was in crashed east of LaGrange while responding to the scene of an apprehension. Cushing was just 19 at the time, and had been a member of the jail staff for just six months.

Goshen Man Injured In Noble County Wreck
Friday, December 19, 2008

(LIGONIER) - A Goshen man was in critical condition after his Jeep Cherokee crossed the center line of U.S. 6 in western Noble County and collided with a semi on Thursday afternoon. Indiana State Police say 48-year-old Duane Troyer was ejected by the impact and later airlifted to Parkview Hospital. He was not wearing a seat belt. The truck driver was not injured. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Mobile Home Park Owners Promise Clean Up
Thursday, December 18, 2008

(ANGOLA) - Angola Fire Marshall Scott Lehman says the owners of the mobile home park at 718 Randolph Street will make every attempt to clean up the park following a series of incidents in recent weeks. After meeting with the owners, the Angola Building Department has ordered that Lot #4, which was badly damaged by a Halloween night fire, be removed as soon as the owners get a settlement from their insurance company. In addition, the city has ordered that two other fire damaged trailers be repaired or removed as soon as nice weather arrives. Lehman adds the owners will also clean and remove any accumulated trash in and around the park. They will also work on landscaping when the weather allows. Lehman says the park owners are good, responsible people and they will make every attempt to run a clean and safe park.

Prosecutors File Amended Charges in Meth Cases
Thursday, December 18, 2008

(ANGOLA) - Steuben County Prosecutors have filed amended drug charges against a pair of defendants who were scheduled to go on trial Thursday in Steuben Superior Court. 37 year old Troy Lee Anglin of LaGrange and 39 year old Michael Allen Annis of Angola are now facing Class A felony charges of Dealing in Methamphetamine over three grams. They were originally scheduled to go on trial together as co-defendants on Class B felony charges of dealing meth before plea negotiations apparently broke down. It's not known when their next court date will be. Both were among four people arrested last July when a traffic stop in the 1200 block of West Mill led police to discover what was described as a rolling meth lab in the back seat of the vehicle they were in.

IDEM Commissioner in Angola, Presents Cleanup Plan for Former Dana Site
Thursday, December 18, 2008

(ANGOLA) - Indiana Department of Enviromental Management Commissioner Thomas Easterly presented several clean up options for the former Dana Weatherhead site in Angola at this mornings Steuben County Commissioners meeting. He said the site where the Univertical plant is now located is heavily contaminated and that groundwater there is unusable. Easterly said at best, the pump and treat system operated by Dana for the past 10 years has slowed the spread of the pollution but an October sampling showed the first evidence of Angola's water supply being contaminated. It was also added in the presentation that the water supply is still considered safe for all uses. Easterly said a multi party clean up would include use of a Dana stock settlement. But Dana stock was trading at 70 cents a share yesterday. It has been as high as $12 per share during the past year. In addition, Univertical would contribute to the clean-up costs and the Indiana Finance Authority State Revolving Fund would provide low interest loans to the city and county for the balance of the funding. There would also be economic incentives to keep Univertical in Angola. Other options include a federal government Superfund and an Indiana Brownfield Grant but certain criteria would have to be met. With Univertical pledging $1 million towards the clean up, it's estimated the local share would come to $6.4 million. The cost for the entire project is estimated to be about $7.5 million. Angola Mayor Dick Hickman said the city hopes to have a response shortly. County Commissioners took no formal action following Easterly's presentation and a question and answer session. The Commissioners meeting room was packed for the presentation this morning with numerous state and local officials as well as representatives from Univertical on hand.

Cameron Officials Announce New Facility at Current Location
Thursday, December 18, 2008

(ANGOLA) - A new Cameron Hospital will be built at the hospitals current site on East Maumee. Hospital officials made the annoucement this morning during a news conference. Cameron Vice-President Ellen Bisson said the decision was based on a recommendation by the hospital's Construction Committee which took a number of factors into consideration. Bisson added that building at their current site will maintain their current position in the very center of Steuben County. She also noted that Cameron will be a major contributor to the City of Angola's new Downtown Revitalization Plan. Angola Mayor Dick Hickman said the news of the hospital staying the downtown area was exciting for the city. A citizens group floated an idea several months ago that a new hospital should be built outside of Angola but that idea fell mostly on deaf ears. Parts of Cameron Hospital were designed and constructed during the 1950's and Hospital Construction Committee Chair Ken Dunlap said the current facility had significant physical limitations in supporting the latest technology and trends in healthcare. Cameron Hospital has been a part of Angola for more than 80 years. Bisson also said the current location also secures its Critical Access Hospital status with the Federal Government which will allow the hospital to stay financially viable well into the future. The hospital has contracted with architects Morrison Kattman Menze of Fort Wayne to assist with the preliminary design stage. More about the new facility, including plans and renderings, will be announced sometime in the future.

Sewer District Rate Remonstrance Hearing Scheduled
Thursday, December 18, 2008

(ANGOLA) - Angry Steuben Lakes Regional Waste District customers turned in remonstrance petitions to Steuben County Commissioners this morning challenging a rate ordinance that was passed by the District Board of Trustees in November. There were enough certified petition signatures to force an appeal hearing on a recently passed rate ordinance to be scheduled for January 5th at 6:30 in the Steuben County Community Center's Dale Hughes Auditorium. The District Board approved the ordinance in hopes of taking care a budget shortfall of nearly $300,000. It was estimated rates would increase by about $6 a month. Another appeal of a Sewer District rate hike was made to County Commissioners four years ago. Commissioners voted to overturn the boards decision but the district filed suit and eventually won a legal decision in Steuben Circuit Court.

LaGrange County Chamber Executive Director Named

(LAGRANGE) - Beth Sherman will take over as executive director of the LaGrange County Chamber of Commerce when Jack Dold retires next month. Sherman has been with the Chamber since May of 2006 and is currently executive administrator. Prior to that she was an account executive for WTHD radio in LaGrange. Her family formerly owned the John Deere dealership in Howe. Dold is retiring at the end of January.

LaGrange K-9 Helps in Arrest of Two Suspects
Thursday, December 18, 2008

(LAGRANGE) - Two burglary suspects were dogged by police...literally. LaGrange Police Officer Mike Sprunger responded to the Moose Lodge in LaGrange early Wednesday morning, where two men were allegedly attempting to gain entry. When the suspects fled on foot, Sprunger’s canine partner, Maci gave chase. 36-year-old Cory Horn of Savannah, Tennessee and 34-year-old Bobby Perry of Elkhart were apprehended following a short pursuit. LaGrange County Sheriff’s deputies assisted in the apprehension.

M.S.D. Board Accepts Maurer Retirement
Tuesday, December 16th, 2008

(ANGOLA) - After serving the M.S.D. of Steuben County since 1974, Carlin Park Elementary School Principal John Maurer will be retiring at the end of the school year in June. The M.S.D. of Steuben County Board of Trustees accepted his retirement request during Tuesday nights meeting at Angola High School. Maurer has been the principal at Carlin Park for the past 21 years. He thanked the board and district officials by saying they allowed him to do his job. In other business, the board approved a request from the Angola High School Marching Band to explore a 2009 trip to Florida. The band has made out of state trips before in 1997, 2001 and 2005. The Marching Hornets performed at Disney World the last time they were in Florida. At least 55 members would make the trip and band members would conduct their own fundraising to help pay for expenses. The board also renewed an agreement with the Angola Kids League which covers Boomershine Field and the diamonds next to Hendry Park Elementary. Superintendent Doctor David Goodwin said it cleaned up a previous agreement which was not going to expire for another year.

Elkhart Man Charged with Illegal Sale of Native Turtles
Wednesday, December 17, 2008

(ELKHART) - An Elkhart man is facing misdemeanor charges in Noble and Elkhart Counties for illegal commercialization of native turtles. Indiana Conservation Officers served a search warrant Monday on 45 year old Rick Bancroft after a six month investigation involving Conservation Officers and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. I.C.O. Public Information Officer Rodney Clear says the investigation began at the Wolf Lake Swap Meet in Noble County, where Bancroft was allegedly engaged in selling protected native turtles to numerous people, including undercover Conservation Officers. It's also alleged by Conservation Officers that Bancroft was involved in the illegal sale of turtles from his Elkhart residence.

Pay Raises for Fremont Employees Approved
Wednesday, December 17, 2008

(FREMONT) - All employees in the town of Fremont will see some extra money in their paychecks with the start of the new year. The Fremont Town Council approved a 2009 salary ordinance last night. Fremont Clerk-Treasurer Kathy Parsons says part-timers would get an hourly increase of 50 cents while full-timers will get an extra $1,200. Town Council members were also in line for pay raises but they voted last night to reject them. In other business, the final payment for the Fremont Industrial Bypass project was approved after officials conducted a recent walk-through. Town Superintendent Chris Snyder also reported that will be at least 2016 before INDOT will be able to perform paving work on State Road 120 due in part to a lack of funds. While that means Fremont's downtown redevelopment project will have to be scaled back, Snyder says other parts of the project will move forward. The Town Council also decided to continue meeting on the third Tuesday of the month during 2009.

Toll Road Fiber Optic Link Proposed
Wednesday, December 17, 2008

(MUNSTER) - A fiber-optic communications link along the Indiana Toll Road could become a reality in the not-to-distant future. The Indiana Department of Transportation is soliciting bids for a company to build and operate the link in order to bring advanced broadband Internet service to businesses and communities along the entire length of the Toll Road. INDOT Deputy Commissioner Carl Bruhn says it would cost a private company up to $15 million to build the line. Whoever wins the bid would then pay an annual fee to the state and have the right to collect fees from users for 25 years.