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By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Looking for something to do this evening?
The good news is that there are a few things going on around Whitley County – or involving Whitley County folks in other places.
- Sherri’s Place in Columbia City will be offering a select menu this evening with some fantastic dinner specials. They’ll be open til 10 p.m.
- You can take the whole family out to Portside Pizza tonight for the New Year’s Eve party there. The kid-friendly activities begin at 6:30 p.m. with a potluck dinner. Portside Pizza will provide the main dish, but guests are welcome to bring side dishes, appetizers and desserts if they choose. At 9:30 p.m., there will be karaoke in the bar. A champagne toast is planned for midnight.
- The band Teaser plays tonight at Beamer’s Sports Grill on the Whitley-Allen County line road. They’ll be offering several drink specials.
- Local band Unlikely Alibi will bring their Reggae-inspired beats to Columbia Street in Fort Wayne tonight. The show starts at 10 p.m.
- Catch local band Heroes 4 Ghosts at Columbia Street tomorrow night.
Souder was previously scheduled to address the breakfast in November, but was unable to make it due to votes in Washington D.C. He will address several current issues before Congress and will take questions from the audience.
Local and state candidates will also briefly address the breakfast before Congressman Souder’s remarks. The public is invited and welcome to attend.
For more information, please contact Whitley County Republican Chairman Jim Banks at (260) 579-5828.
A look at today's newly updated classfieds reveals two local residents who need your help...
Did you see an accident on US 30 and Lincolnway West on December 23? If so, click here and help provide information about what you saw.
A local family is missing their orange and white house cat in the Columbia Shores neighborhood. If you have information that will help reunite this cat with it's family, click here for contact information.
Talk of the Town classifieds are FREE and they work. We finished an overhaul of our classified ads this week and you can now easily submit ads once again via the form online. You are also welcome to send the via email to: jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
In a lot of ways, it’s like Whitley County’s glimpse into the crystal ball – and while the forecast is never perfect, it’s always interesting to know what might be ahead for the economy. 
An annual event of the Columbia City Area Chamber of Commerce, Huntington University Economist Jim O’Donnell will return to Whitley County for the Economic Forecast Breakfast on Tuesday, January 12, 2010. The breakfast begins at 8 a.m. at the Eagle’s Nest Event Center in Columbia City.
O’Donnell’s highly informative presentations take a closer look at the economic indicators, showing we may expect from the economy in 2010.
“O’Donnell delivers a thought-provoking look, with his own brand of humorous flair, at information to help you prepare for what may lie ahead this year and answers the questions that matter to you,” said Michelle Culbertson of the Columbia City Area Chamber of Commerce.
Tickets to the breakfast are $5 per person. Reservations are required by January 8, 2010, by calling 248-8131.
(Talk of the Town photo by Michelle Culbertson) The Columbia City Area Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed Children’s Attic as a new chamber member. Additionally, they held a ribbon cutting ceremony at the grand opening of the new second hand children’s clothing store. Present for the ceremony, held on the store’s first day of business, were Jo Robertson, Sue Roman, Trudy Miller-Longhenry, Pat Hatcher, Randy Holler, Deb and Greg Grimes, Amanda Reid and others. Below, the updated façade of the building looks crisp and fresh.
By Michelle Culbertson
Children’s Attic, a new Columbia City business and member of the Columbia City Area Chamber of Commerce, commenced business with a grand opening celebration and ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, December 4. 
Opening at 367A North Line Street, just south of Pak-A-Sak convenience store, they have completed an interior remodel of a building that has housed numerous Columbia City businesses over the years.
Upon entering this new establishment, shoppers will find a children’s area where a child can watch a video, read a book or play with a toy under your watchful eye as you browse their selection of high quality boutique style clothing for sizes up to 14. All items are gently used and in good condition.
If you have children’s clothing in good condition, please contact the store and they will guide you through the process of what and how they accept items for their inventory. They also accept some larger furniture items on consignment.
Welcoming Children’s Attic into the business community for their first day of business were chamber ambassadors Jo Robertson, Midwest America Federal Credit Union; Sue Roman, Miller’s Merry Manor; Trudy Miller-Longhenry, Simonson Estates; Chamber executive director Pat Hatcher, Randy Holler of Crossroads Bank; and Mayor Jim Fleck. Also present were owners Deb & Greg Grimes and daughter Amanda Reid and family.
Thanks to the quick actions of several Columbia City residents, Moe was safely returned to his family today...and we're told he'll be spending a bit of time in the dog house for his shenanigans last evening.
(Talk of the Town photo provided) With the help of a crane, workers with Weigand Construction lower a concrete foundation form into place at the new Parkview Whitley Hospital on the east side of Columbia City, below.
Article provided
Construction of the new Parkview Whitley Hospital, managed by Hagerman Construction Corporation of Fort Wayne, entered the structural phase in November with the concrete pouring of the basement footings from west to east, as well as the forming and pouring of the basement foundation wall.
In addition, Weigand Construction, Inc. has moved ahead quickly with concrete work in spite of several delays due to inclement weather. Additional subcontractors have been selected for various aspects of construction, and include:
Almet, Inc., a steel fabricator company located in New Haven, responsible for the structural steel scheduled to arrive in February 2010
Otis Elevator, a worldwide elevator company with an office located in Fort Wayne
A. Hattersley & Sons, Inc., of Fort Wayne, responsible for plumbing, heating, ventilation, air conditioning and medical gas delivery system installation
Votaw Electric, an electrical contractor located in Fort Wayne
Smith Erectors, Inc., a steel erection and concrete steel reinforcing contractor located in Markle
“We are thrilled to see our new hospital taking shape,” said John Meister, chief operating officer of Parkview Whitley Hospital. “All of our ideas and plans to deliver the best patient experience are becoming a reality. In two short years Whitley County residents will enjoy the benefits of a model community hospital.”
Visible now to passersby from the road is Smith Erectors’ 200-ton crane, which is used to hoist and move steel reinforcing bar for the construction of the lower-level foundation wall. The crane will be on-site until completion of the steel structural framing of the hospital.
Also, an additional 13,000 square feet have been added to the lower level of the original hospital plans to accommodate the new Medical Office Building, The expansion plans maintain the overall design integrity of the hospital complex, and the construction timeline has been synchronized with the opening date of the new hospital.
Your hosts will be CCHSAA founder and past president Ted Gruver and his wife, Sue, who have hosted the Brunch for the last eight years. Gruver is a member of the CCHS Class of 1957.
A table will be set up for yearbooks, pictures and memorabilia. Guests and friends are invited, come and enjoy.
This CCHS Florida Brunch is planned each year with alumni and their families in mind in the sunny warm weather of Southwest Florida. The buffet style brunch will start at 11:30 a.m. sharp. Dress code is dressy casual.
Reservations are required for a head count. Send a check in the amount of $24.95 per person before February 27, 2010 to: Ruth Ann Bowie Davis, 104 Martinique Road, North Port, FL 34287
You may also contact Ruth Ann Bowie Davis at jdavis4113@msn.com
As reservations are received, they will be acknowledged with a reservation number.
The Jacaranda West Country Club located at 1901 Jacaranda Blvd., Venice, Florida 34293. Club Office telephone number is 941-493-5010.
(Talk of the Town file photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Mary Ellen’s Closet owner Gary Grepke, above, surveys the expansion of his business on the second floor of the McGregor building late last summer. Below, boxes of brightly colored yarn awaited donation to DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home for use by volunteers in creating mittens, hats, scarves and gloves for children in need. Mary Ellen's Closet donated the yarn for use by the project volunteers, one of many ways they gave back to the community during their first year of business.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
A business that began just at the darker days of the recession has been a bright spot in downtown Columbia City, offering struggling families a place to find the things they need and providing local residents with a place to donate their unwanted clothing, housewares and appliances.
This month, Mary Ellen’s Closet celebrates their first anniversary in business providing quality second hand items from the McGregor Building in downtown Columbia City. 
Owner Gary Grepke wasn’t certain how things would play out as his business opened in what quickly became apparent was the least positive business climate in some time. Still, he and store manager Linda Williams kept at it – and kept the doors open.
Williams describes the first year of business as having many ups and downs.
“When we first opened, the goal was to be able to run the business plus be able to donate to different places and organizations,” Williams said. “By the grace of God, we are doing both.”
Grepke had said before doors to the business, named for his mother-in-law, that he’d like to be able to donate portions of the business’ proceeds to support causes in the community.
“I feel with every donation, it’s an indicator that we are going in the right direction and that trust is what motivates us at Mary Ellen’s Closet,” Williams said.
Since opening, Mary Ellen’s Closet has made donations to Passages Inc., The Lighthouse homeless shelter, the Whitley County Humane Society, numerous families whose homes were destroyed by fire and helped several churches.
“We even sent clothes and toys to the Philippines,” Williams added, saying they’ve also helped Helpline and The Salvation Army. “We were honored to help Santa at a local school.”
Mary Ellen’s Closet has also participated in the activities of the Downtown Business Owners Group and the Columbia City Area Chamber of Commerce’s Whitley County EXPOsed event.
Since initially opening on the first floor of the building at the corner of Van Buren and Line Streets, they’ve expanded now to take up much of the first two floors of the building with a wide, ever-changing selection of second hand items, including clothing and antiques.
So, what’s in store for the year ahead? Williams is optimistic and thankful to the shoppers and volunteers who’ve gotten them this far.
“As we look forward to the next year and we dare to dream, our hearts lead the way and our customers give us the path,” Williams added.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
With the year winding down its final hours, it is time once again to partake in a little Talk of the Town tradition – picking your Citizen of the Year, Business of the Year and Non-Profit Organization of the year.
Here’s a little recap about last year’s winners: 
Kelley Sheiss was selected as the 2008 Citizen of the Year – having received several votes from local residents impressed with her sense of engagement in the community and volunteerism for numerous organizations. One nominator wrote of Sheiss, “She leads the Leadership Whitley County with professionalism and enthusiasm. Kelley helps whenever needed.” Another person wrote about her involvement in the local 4-H program and past work with the Whitley County United Way.
Other nominees for last year’s Citizen of the Year included Barry Yeakle, Judy Couch, June Keiser, Candice Yeakle, Susie Sexton, Jim Banks, Tom Drew and several others.
The CC Deli was selected as the Business of the Year with voters remarking how much they enjoy the local eatery. On nominator wrote, “The Deli is such a bright spot downtown. The owners have a terrific sense of what customers want and have made changes as needed to keep them happy. We love the Deli!” Another nominator mentioned their good service and great food as reasons they felt it should be selected as last year’s business of the year.
Other nominees last year included: J&J Insurance, Brew Ha, Lake City Bank, Snippers, Hair Happenings and several others.
The 2008 Non-Profit Organization of the Year was Leadership Whitley County. One nominator wrote, “Leadership Whitley County serves as a place to grow leaders, inspires others and provides resources for other non-profits and the community.” Others echoed these sentiments writing that they felt the organization does a wonderful job of preparing local residents for leadership positions throughout the community.
Other nominees for last year’s Organization of the Year included: Whitley County Community Foundation, Salvation Army, Columbia City Rotary Club, The Woodlands Senior Center, local food pantries and others.
Now, we need your help to pick the winners for this year.
You can follow this link HERE to complete the survey in a secure location online. Or, if you prefer, send us an email outlining the names of the citizen, business and non-profit organization you’d like to vote for. We also encourage you to give a few reasons about why you think they deserve to win the 2009 awards.
The contest will continue until Monday, January 4, at midnight. Awards will be announced as quickly as possible thereafter.
To submit your nominations via email, send an email to: jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Now that Christmas is over, many people are packing up the ornaments and taking down the Christmas tree. For those Whitley County residents who had a live tree, for the sake of safety, it is probably now time to dispose of that tree -- but do you know how or where?
Whitley County Solid Waste will once again accept live spruce trees for recycling at the recycling center location on South Main Street in Columbia City. Director Jorell Tucker said residents may drop off their tree, free of charge, and leave it between the two orange cones in the parking lot area. Trees will be accepted for recycling at that location until January 9.
For more information, call Whitley County Solid Waste at 248-3132.
Making good marriages better is a goal of the Collins Church.
Last year, the church sponsored the “Fireproof” marriage seminar, and this year they will be sharing another series “Love and Respect”.
This series focus is on 5 areas of married life that tend to lead to conflict. The seminar is designed for couples who want to improve their marriage. It is also good for individuals who are dating, might be dating or want to be dating.
“It will help us all to better understand each other and how the choices we make affect others,” said Pastor Larry Schmoekel.
“This is a DVD series. We will watch a session, each about 80 minutes long, and then have a guided discussion. There is a book that goes along with the series,” he said.
The series will begin on Friday, January 15 at 6:30 p.m. with pizza for supper.
“We will also meet on Saturday morning at 9 a.m. and Sunday evening at 6 p.m. We will then meet on the next two Sundays at 6 p.m. Each total session will be about 2 hours,” Schmoekel said.
The cost will be $ 10 per couple which includes the workbook and pizza. If the fee is paid prior to January 8, it is $8 per couple. Reservations may be made online by visiting www.collinsumchurch.org
Schmoekel said a local husband told him, “We had a good marriage, but after taking part in this series – not just watching it – our marriage is even better! I’m so glad we attended.”
Additionally, a wife wrote: "Humor is a great way to get people to listen to what you are saying, that's what has my husband interested in seeing your taped conferences."
What follows is the schedule for the seminar:
Session 1 Why We Negatively React to Each Other (The Crazy Cycle)
Session 2 How a Husband Best Motivates His Wife (The Energizing Cycle Part I)
Session 3 How a Wife Best Motivates Her Husband (The Energizing Cycle Part II)
Session 4 Practical Application (Sarah Eggerichs)
Session 5 The Ingredient That Motivates Us Beyond Our Marriage (The Rewarded Cycle)
For more information, call the church at (260) 693- 1104 or Pastor Larry Schmoekel at 691-3756 for reservations. The Collins United Methodist Church is in Collins at 5524 East Darland Street.
(Talk of the Town photo provided) The recent snowfall has been a windfall of winter fun for many local families. Off school and work for the holidays, many families have been out enjoying the traditional local favorites – sledding at DeVol Field, building snowpeople, cross country skiing and snowmobiling. Above, county commissioner Don Amber and his grandchildren have been enjoying the opportunity to get out and do a little snowmobiling in the northern part of the county. Above, from left, Mackenzie Pittenger, Don Amber, Carlin Amber and Jenna Pittenger zip across the countryside on Don Amber's vintage John Deere snowmobile pulling a smaller sleigh fashioned to look like a snowmobile. Oh what fun it is to ride...in an open sleigh!
Tis the season to curl up with a good book...or get out and engage in some of the fun activities going on during the month of January at the Peabody Public Library. Click the link below to see the full list of activities.
The Peabody Public Library will be closed this Thursday and Friday in observance of New Years. The library will reopen on Saturday, January 2, 2010, at 9 a.m.
(Talk of the Town photo provided) 
Clem, at right, is a big beautiful neutered male buff-colored mackerel tabby with a white muzzle who showed up at a nearby nursing home recently. Now, he’s living at the Whitley County Humane Society’s animal shelter and is great need of a home.
Two kind ladies who work at the nursing home fed and cared for him for awhile, but because they were unable to get permission for him to stay there as a nursing home cat, they brought him to us. Clem would have been a good cat for the residents because he is very gentle, friendly and cuddly. He loves to climb onto your lap, and sit there and give friendly head butts to tell you he loves you. On occasion, he is playful, but his first priority is to love and be loved.
Please come in and meet this affectionate boy today and consider adopting him. He will be a great pet! Clem is believed to be about 5 years-old.
For more information about pet adoption or about Clem, contact the Whitley County Humane Society at 244-6664.
(Talk of the Town photo provided) The employees of UnderSea Sensor Systems, a subsidiary of Ultra Electronics, located in Park 30 Business Center, donated nearly 250 food items through the United Way to the Salvation Army food pantry operating out of Eagle Quest Church. The drive occurred over the past two weeks.
USSI also contributed $1,000 to United Way which will be used to purchase additional food items for other food pantries in Whitley County. A match from the United Way for the food gathered by USSI employees will add another $125 for additional food purchases. Employees pictured above with the collected food are, in front from left, Chris Strasser, Kristi Green, Nancy Davis, Carol Hively, Janet Williams and Steve Miller. Row two, from left, includes Dick Moser, Aaron Winteregg, Brian Schwartz, Debra Howell, Gene Stephenson and Mark Trout.
Article provided
The Faith Walk 2009 was a resounding success according to Rev. Larry Schmoekel, administrator of Faith Christian Academy. 
“We had a great time - and so many walkers,” Schmoekel said emphatically. “There were 46 walkers of all ages. Most walked the whole 100 minutes - some of the youngsters even ran 100 minutes.”
“If we take the size of the gym and do all sorts of mathematics to it, like average lap time, average number of laps completed and the like, we walked 460 miles,” Schmoekel added.
“Not only did we walk that far, but up to this point we have collected $1950 in pledges. When that is matched, we will have raised $ 3900,” he said.
If anyone still would like to pledge for the Faith Walk 2009, send a check to Faith Christian Academy, 1550 East State Road 205, Columbia City, IN 46725.
Faith Christian Academy is Whitley County’s only private, non-denominational Christian school. Classes are offered from pre-school through eighth grade. High school classes are also available through the online Seven Star Academy.
Not too long ago, BuscoVoice brought you news of the pending ACLU lawsuit against Smith-Green Community Schools and high school principal Austin Couch.
The ACLU filed the suit on behalf of two female athletes at Churubusco High School who were suspended from athletics and all extra curricular activities for the entire school year after Couch became aware of racy pictures they posted on their Myspace pages.
The Indiana chapter of the ACLU filed the law suit against Smith-Green in October.
The two sophomore girls had taken the pictures at a sleepover over the summer and posted them in an album on Myspace set so that only their friends could view them. After another child’s parent discovered them, they reported them to Couch who promptly suspended the girls from all activities for the school year. After appealing to Couch, he reduced their sentence by 25 percent once they attended three counseling sessions and apologized to the CHS Athletic Board, an all-male group comprised of the varsity coaches.
According to an article published December 18 in the Journal Gazette, the ACLU would like to have the suit classified as class action on behalf of all students participating in extracurricular activities at Smith-Green. In recent court filings, the school district does not think the suit should be classified as such because it is the first case in school history of this sort.
The Gazette also stated attorneys for Smith-Green are now alleging the actions comprise the behavior of “potential child pornographers.” Attorneys for the district also state that the pictures are child pornography and they are not constitutionally protected speech. A tentative trial date is set for April 2011.
Go Whitley Accelerating Innovation program, the newly created, Whitley County based business incubator program, will offer an eleven-week FastTrac® New Ventures course in January 2010 geared at helping entrepreneurs get their businesses up and running.
FastTrac® is a practical, hands-on business development program designed to help entrepreneur's fine tune the skills needed to create, manage, and grow a successful business. FastTrac® participants don't just learn about business, they live it! They work on their own business ideas or ventures throughout the program - moving their ventures to reality or new levels of growth.
The course will be held on Thursdays from 3-6 p.m. beginning January 21, 2010. The course continues for 11 weeks and will be offered at the Whitley County EDC office in downtown Columbia City.
Participants in a FastTrac® program learn to operate their businesses effectively through a certified Kauffman Foundation business planning program using sources of information, and to make decisions based on trust and competence. In this learning -focused environment, participants will fine tune skills to create and/ or grow a successful business. Additionally, they will learn from experienced entrepreneur facilitators, business coaches, guest speakers and peers. They will learn to transfer knowledge in a peer-to-peer environment, expand their network of community resources.
Overall, entrepreneurs will learn to work ON their business, not IN it and receive continual feedback from experienced entrepreneurs.
Participants are expected to learn business development and planning processes they can use as a tool for the ongoing development of their business.
For more information or to register for the New Ventures program, please contact Sharon Sallot, Program Manager, Go Whitley Accelerating Innovation, at 244-3176 or ssallot@whitleybiz.com.
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano)
From our family to yours, Merry Christmas! This marks our third Christmas online sharing the better news of Whitley County. Despite the fact that we are a true, 7 day a week (including holidays) news source, we may not update again today so that we can enjoy the holiday with family.
If you'd like, you are welcome to send photos of your Christmas celebration to share later this week -- or send well wishes for friends or family and we'll be happy to post them for you.
Again, thank you for your ongoing support and readership of Talk of the Town!
The Romano Family
Your containers will be collected on your last pickup day. You should receive your new container by January 6, 2010. If you do not receive your new container by the January 6th deadline please call Whitley County Solid Waste Management District’s office at 248-3132 and your name will be placed on the delivery list.
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Dr. Lori Kirgis, left, and Amanda Cook look at several of the products that assist Ideal Protein participants in reaching their weightloss goals. The foods do not make up a diet -- but Cook says are part of an overall lifestyle change.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
If you’ve had one to many Santa Claus cookies or spent too much time grazing the hors d’ oeuvres this holiday season, you may be looking at New Year’s as the definitive time to begin making changes.
If a new diet and personal wellness is part of the New Years plan, get an early start on the planning part of that resolution and plan to attend a health talk on December 29, 2009, at 6 p.m. at Whitley Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Columbia City.
Join Dr. Lori Kirgis and Amanda Cook as they discuss wellness options, including the new Ideal Protein program offered exclusively at Whitley Chiropractic & Wellness Center.
Ideal Protein, Kirgis said, is not a diet – but an overall lifestyle change that can help deliver the results clients want to see.
“We do a good job with the muscular and skeletal systems here, but this is the icing on the cake,” said Dr. Jamie Kirgis of the newly added program which offers one more facet to total wellness offered through Whitley Chiropractic & Wellness Center. Kirgis said Dr. Lori Kirgis is uniquely qualified to help patients with this area of wellness because of her keen ability to motivate people.
“We’re trying to change the way people think about eating and teach people how to eat better and make better choices,” Dr. Lori Kirgis said. “It’s all about choices and re-education.”
Kirgis said the new program is not a long-term solution, but offers a good kick start. She said the average patient on the Ideal Protein plan loses, on average, 3-5 pounds a week for women and 4-7 pounds a week for men.
“This is not a forever plan,” Kirgis continued. “There is a beginning and an end. There are four stages to the program. We educate patients about making the right decisions about food.”
Kirgis recently began offering Ideal Protein for clients and several are already seeing success.
“I just had a gentleman complete his first week of the program and he’s already lost 12 pounds,” Kirgis said.
Cook is currently implementing the program at several facilities throughout Northeast Indiana, including Women’s Health Advantage and several obstetric and gynecological offices in Fort Wayne and Warsaw.
Cook said Women’s Health Advantage began offering the program to their patients in June and currently has 192 patients utilizing the program there. Cook has not only seen results experienced by those patients -- she's lost 60 pounds on the program herself.
Kirgis likes the idea of offering the program at their facility in Columbia City because it is more accessible to men who may be interested in the program.
To attend the health talk at Whitley Chiropractic & Wellness Center, call 244-3665 or click here to read more about the program.
(Talk of the Town photo provided) The photo above of Zack Cearbaugh, a Columbia City resident and Passages Inc. client, appears in The ARC of Indiana’s 2010 calendar. Cearbaugh is employed at Portside Pizza,Tri Lakes.
Article provided
The Arc of Indiana’s 2010 calendar features people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities in their places of employment throughout Indiana – and this year, it includes a local resident.
Passages client Zack Cearbaugh of Columbia City was selected by ARC of Indiana, a statewide organization for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, for inclusion in the calendar.
A goal of the calendar is to share that people with a wide range of disabilities can find meaningful employment, and contribute back to their communities, with the support of agencies like Passages. Besides being shared in communities throughout Indiana, the calendar will also be shared with members of the Indiana General Assembly, as well as other public officials.
After receiving job placement and training services for his job at Portside Pizza, Cearbaugh was referred to Passages for continued job supports. His job at Portside Pizza at Tri Lakes has helped him become increasingly independent and proud of his work.
Through his job, he has become part of the Portside Pizza family and has become friends with co-workers, both on and off the job. Cearbaugh is a movie buff, and particularly likes going to scary movies with his friends. Name a part of a scary movie and Cearbaugh will reel off the title!
Passages is located in Columbia City and has been part of the fabric of the Whitley County community since 1954. The organization was started by parents and concerned community leaders in order to address the educational, social and vocational needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It is the mission of Passages to join with others to support people with challenges to living, learning, working and playing in the community through the use of quality practices.
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Tim Craig, a Columbia City native, was recently awarded the 2009 George Davison Award.
By Peggy Conrad
“I’m on top of the world right now.”
So ended Tim Craig’s acceptance speech at the 2009 Davison Awards party recently when he was presented with the coveted George Davison Award. To be nominated, candidates must be “a pillar of spirit, drive and belief … Their attitude and demeanor should attract others to follow the dream and stay motivated throughout the day-to-day challenges.” 
It’s no surprise to his coworkers that Tim, a 1996 graduate of Columbia City High School, received the honor. “He definitely deserved it,” said Pete Meier, vice president of design. Tim, however, was shocked.
“This year has been one of the best I’ve ever had; but still, with the competition, I definitely wasn’t expecting it,” he said. “It’s going to be hard to top this year.”
It certainly has been a good one for Craig, who holds the position of “creative coach” at Davison, a new product development firm in Pittsburgh. Several new products for which he was the design manager hit the marketplace in a big way: the Meatball Baker sold out on QVC, the Party-on-the-Go also had a big debut on QVC, and the Bobbin Winder is selling in Jo-Ann Stores across the country.
Craig, who works as an industrial design manager in Inventionland, Davison’s creative design facility, also took on added responsibilities. He designed a new time-saving digital management system through which every project in the division flows.
“It’s a lot easier now to find whatever project you’re looking for.”
In addition, he developed a new DVD portfolio for clients, so they can receive a set of interactive discs containing all the work related to their project instead of a large binder full of papers. Craig worked closely with the video department and web designer to produce the portfolio, which has received great feedback in a test run.
Having the opportunity to work with a lot of different people and on various types of projects is one of the things he likes best about his position at Davison;
“It’s never the same every day, and Mr. Davison gives us the best tools I could ask for.”
The other aspect that he most enjoys can be summed up in one word: freedom.
“I’m allowed to pretty much make decisions as I feel fit … Every day’s whatever I make it.”
Craig attended ITT Tech in Pittsburgh, where he received a bachelor’s degree in industrial design in 2001. He has been with Davison eight years and has worked his way up through the design department to his present position. He is the son of Janet Craig and Mike Craig, both of Columbia City.
Davison is a new product development company that provides a variety of services to inventors, corporations and entrepreneurs. Products designed by Davison have sold in stores such as Target, Bed Bath & Beyond, Walmart, Home Depot, Sears, K-Mart, FAO Schwarz, JCPenney, Linens ‘n Things, Dick’s Sporting Goods, AutoZone, Dunham’s Sports, Cabela’s and more.
Article provided
The Northeast Indiana Patient Safety Coalition, of which Parkview Whitley Hospital is a member, announced it has completed its first project aimed at enhancing patient safety in area hospitals.
The coalition was established in November 2008 as a way for area hospitals to work together on patient safety initiatives. The first project was to standardize the colors of wristbands that hospitals use to alert hospital personnel of precautions for patients. The new universal system is now in place.
The wristband colors are:
Red: Allergy alert
Green: Latex allergy
Yellow: Fall risk
Purple: Do not resuscitate
Pink: Limb alert
White: Patient identification
Prior to the completion of the initiative, hospitals in the area had different color systems and mechanisms to alert medical personnel of potential patient risks.
“We are pleased with the progress that is being made. Patient safety is our top priority, and we appreciate the support and commitment we have received from coalition members,” said Dr. Jeffrey Brookes, Northeast Indiana Patient Safety Coalition member. “We are looking forward to additional opportunities and new innovations to improve patient safety and provide the best care possible to patients in our hospitals.”
The efforts by the coalition are in alignment with the recommendations by the Indiana Patient Safety Center and the Indiana Hospital Association for statewide wristband color standardization. The coalition is the fifth such entity to be created in Indiana. The 22 member groups meet every other month.
By Sheriff Mark Hodges
It goes without saying that the investigation of the disappearance of Debra Houser has kept nearly everyone from the Sheriff’s Department busy for the past three weeks. Information that was gathered in the investigation lead us to believe she had been killed and her body was placed in or near water. For those reasons, many different agencies have assisted in the search and subsequent recovery of her body.
The Indiana State Police and Department of Natural Resources have provided equipment and manpower to search several lakes and ponds with sonar equipment. Our local Emergency Management Office along with equipment and volunteers from Thorncreek Township Fire Department searched some of the same waters with an extremely high quality underwater camera. Several canine handlers from Noble County searched water, fields and wooded areas with cadaver dogs. The Indiana State Police provided a helicopter and an airplane along with numerous Troopers that assisted on the ground. On the third day of searching, dozens of volunteers reported to the Larwill Fire Station and were assigned areas of ground searching in Richland, Cleveland and Etna Troy townships. Help also came from every police agency in Whitley County as did volunteers from every fire department.
I am sure I have missed someone or group; however, I want to say “thank you” to everyone that has helped in any way. I also want to say thanks to everyone that was praying for the investigation. Several of you told me and it is greatly appreciated.
On a lighter note, November 14 was the first Veteran’s Day Marathon race for Columbia City and Whitley County. Reserve deputies from the Sheriff’s Department provided traffic direction at various intersections along the race course. Gary Bird did well at organizing the event and the weather even cooperated. The Reserves are prepared to assist in next year’s marathon as more runners are expected to participate.
Annually, the Columbia City Trinity Presbyterian Church provides a cook-out style meal for employees of the Sheriff’s Department and offices in the Court House. On October 9, several members and volunteers from the church cooked up brats, burgers, side dishes and very tasty desserts for us. On behalf of everyone that was served, I want to say “thank you” to the church and the volunteers.
Toys for Tots and the Sheriff’s Department have teamed up again for the collection of toys. The United States Marines have been the guiding force behind this drive for many years. The Sheriff’s Department just provides a car for the collection during the live nativity on the Court House Square along with a collection drop box in our lobby.
I have had a lot of questions and comments on the car I am now driving. It is a 2009 Dodge Charger with the smaller Hemi engine. I wanted to try one prior to buying several for our fleet. When the car first was introduced, Dodge had some problems with the brake pads wearing too quickly. In 2008, that problem was fixed. I was also curious as to the gas mileage from the Charger as the Hemi engine will run on four cylinders during routine driving. In November, I got 19 miles per gallon. The department average for November was 14.9 miles per gallon. While my average was pretty good for a police car, I am still concerned about the mileage if the car was used for regular patrolling. The Indiana State Police are putting two Chargers on the road here in Whitley County within the next few months. I will monitor their mileage and report my findings.
You will notice that my car is not the standard two tone brown. Adding two colors to a car costs an extra $500 to $900. For that reason, I did not get the dark brown paint and the two patrol cars for 2010 will be a solid color also.
I will be writing again in February. Until then, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, crews work last Wednesday to unload a shipment of new blue recycling containers at the Whitley Environmental site in Columbia City. Below, a row of newly assembled containers awaits delivery. The new containers feature a low profile, wheels and bring with them the ability to recycle more items in Whitley County beginning in January.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The new blue recycling containers purchased by the Whitley County Solid Waste Management District are arriving by the truck full and being delivered to homes around the county.
At Whitley Environmental’s site, located near Fort Wayne Foundry on Columbia City’s east side, long rows of the containers continue to form as workers assemble them, put on wheels and insert a newly-created recycling calendar that will help residents determine their recycling days moving into 2010. The containers began arriving last Monday and have already been delivered to many homes in Whitley County.
The old grey and black containers, property of National Serv-All, will be picked up at your last scheduled pickup of the year. Your new blue container, which is property of Whitley County Solid Waste Management District, will arrive any day now. If you have not received your recycling container by Wednesday, January 6, 2010, you should contact Whitley County Solid Waste Management District's office at 248-3132.
After January 2, if you have questions about your recycling pickup, you can contact the county's new provider, Whitley Environmental, by calling 609-1112 or via e-mail at werecycling@gmail.com
With the holidays coming up, Whitley County Solid Waste Management District director Jorell Tucker reminds residents that the usual pickup schedule is adjusted slightly. For example, if your regularly scheduled recycling day falls on a holiday, they’ll be picked up the following day. For those who’s normal pickup day would be this Friday (Christmas), they’ll be picked up on Saturday by National Serv-All.
Tucker said the holiday pickup policy will carry over to the new company, Whitley Environmental.
Two weeks from now, Whitley Environmental will begin collecting a wider variety of recyclable items, curbside, than residents have experienced in the past. Beginning January 2, 2010, residents will be able to use the single blue container to hold comingled items, including: plastics numbered 1 through 7, glass that is brown, clear, green or blue, newspaper, catalogs, telephone books, corrugated cardboard, snack and cereal boxes, magazines, junk mail, shredded paper, aluminum cans, steel food cans, pie pans and aluminum foil.
Tucker urges residents, however, to enhance the quality of their recycling by taking the time to rinse glass, steel and aluminum containers before tossing them into the recycling bin.
Tucker adds that several items cannot be recycled curbside, but can be recycled at their office on Line Street in Columbia City, including: small electronics, cell phones, car batteries, motor oil, household batteries, ink cartridges, residential fluorescent bulbs and anti-freeze. Additionally, other items that can typically be recycled curbside can also be brought in to the recycling center during business hours.
Items that cannot be recycled are: hardback books, light bulbs, window glass, mirrors, drinking glasses or mugs, cooking glassware, pizza boxes with grease stains on them or facial tissues.
While many residents are looking forward to the new recycling program, Tucker urges residents to be patient and understand there may be a few bumps in the road as the new company ramps up their program.
If you have questions about recycling or want more information, Tucker said he’s eager to talk with residents and help them begin or continue their recycling habits. Call Jorell Tucker at 248-3132 or visit wcswmd.whitleynet.org or contact them via email at recycle@whitleygov.com
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Below, a member of the AK Cleaning team sets to work cleaning a homeowner's kitchen, thereby reducing pre-holiday stress.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
The closer we get to holiday crunch time, the more important it becomes to simplify your life -- what can you do and what can you have done for you?
Make the holidays a little less stressful and instead of wasting a whole day cleaning your house or toiling away cleaning up after the holiday celebration – set aside about an hour, a little cash and have the work done for you. You may find it is surprisingly more economical than you might have thought and well worth every penny spent! 
Allysha Fetters of AK Cleaning is now offering pre- and post-holiday cleaning services that will have your house looking white glove perfect and leave you with more energy and feeling less frazzled for the festivities.
If you don't have time to schedule it before Christmas, perhaps you'll want everything fresh and clean for the new year once you put all of your decorations put away -- and AK Cleaning can help with that as well.
Fetters and a crew of moms will come in and have the place in top shape in no time. Fetters prides herself on employing a team of part-time workers that area also full-time mothers. They dust, vacuum, clean bathrooms, kitchens, tidy it up and put it all away – leaving you to arrive back home to find everything in order and smelling clean.
You can stay at home while the cleaning is being done, but Fetters says most of her clients enjoy leaving to do shopping, have a coffee and then return home to find their homes clean.
Fetters said AK Cleaning does both residential and commercial cleaning jobs.
Fetters is insured and emphasizes the importance of hiring an insured cleaning company.
For more information and a consultation, contact AK Cleaning at 248-1328.
(Talk of the Town photos provided) Above, Allyson Shambaugh and Taylor Snavely help children make Christmas cards during the recent Christmas party for HeadStart children. 
Article provided
Ho, ho, ho” ringed through the hallways on Tuesday, December 8, as the four- and five-year-olds at Whitley County’s CANI Headstart look around for Santa Claus.
This event is a yearly highlight event for the HANDS Foundation members as they enjoy the look of delight on the faces of the children as they wait with excitement to see what Santa has brought them.
On that day, prior to giving presents to the Headstart kids, HANDS members assisted in stations where the kids are invited to tape a heart and carrot nose on the snowman, make Christmas cards and decorate cookies. These activities are repeated for both the morning and afternoon classes.
Members of the HANDS Foundation are: Stuart Hilsmier, Janelle Gouwens, Alex McDowell, Hayden Kilgore, Allyson Shambaugh, Kylie Hagans, Wesley Trabert, Hannah Schaefer, Olivia Wilson, Ian Rooda, Taylor Snavely, Connor Stouder, Abby Marshall, Stephanie Weigold and David Johnson.
The HANDS Foundation is brought to Whitley County through the collaborative efforts of The Dekko Foundation, the Whitley County Community Foundation, and the three school corporations in Whitley County.
If you would like more information or to make a donation the HANDS Foundation endowment contact John Slavich at 244-5224, Ext 104.
What follows are the daily featured soups:
Monday – Tomato Tortellini and Chicken Dumpling
Tuesday – Cheesy Potato and Tomato Bisque
Wednesday – Talk of the Town’s White Chili and Veggie Beef
Just imagine…12 quiet hours without the disruptions of home life. No telephone calls, no unexpected visitors at the door, no appointments…just 12 hours to document your life, your family, perhaps the recent holidays?
On January 16, 2010, bring your unfinished scrapbooking projects, friends and creativity to Little Turtle Elementary School and get to work during the CCHS Band Booster’s first-ever Scrapbook Day event. The event will be held from 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
Reservations are limited – to ensure a great experience for all who attend. Look forward to door prizes, special exhibits from regional scrapbooking supply providers and a swap table to trade items and try something new.
The $30 registration fee includes a work table, lunch and dinner for each participant. Send a check for $30 to: CCHS Band Boosters, c/o Tonya Horvath, 313 North Main Street, Columbia City, IN 46725.
For more information, contact Tonya Horvath at 609-1776.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Despite being public schools, Whitley County Consolidated School board members learned during their November meeting that elements of religion do have a presence in locals classroom.
In fact, that presence seems to be more obvious the older a student gets.
At the elementary school level, a moment of silence is observed each morning – a time students may choose to use for prayer.
Indian Springs Middle School principal Jennifer Reiff shared at that at the middle school level, representatives of several area religious groups, such as The Center for Whitley County Youth and Youth for Christ, are present in the lunch rooms. They talk with students in the lunchroom about various topics and will talk with children about religion if the child wants to.
CCHS vice principal Brady Mullett said there are several Christian groups that meet at the high school, including the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and religious huddle groups.
Additionally, representatives from Youth for Christ and The Center visit the lunchroom and talk with students or provide information about upcoming Christian events in the community.
“Part of it is that the needs of our kids are so great,” Mullett said of the many issues and pressures in the lives of teens, he’s glad there are Christian ministries present in the school if a child chooses to need it. “We’re grateful for their involvement.”
“We’re talking about student choice,” Mullett said.
Mullett said that senior level English classes cover many religions and the basis of numerous philosophical backgrounds before writing a thesis – but he cautions that teachers to do not promote any one religion over another.
In listening to the educator’s discussion about religion in the schools, board member Deb Hiss said it was important to be careful about not having teachers lead prayer and that prayer be a student-initiated activity.
“The prayer has to be student-lead,” Hiss said, urging the school leaders to ensure that the policies be well-understood.
Board member Jill Western noted that she was concerned about anyone coming into school and having access to students. She asked about background checks for anyone having direct access to students.
CANI helps communities, families, and individuals remove the causes and conditions of poverty.
For more information about CANI and the services provided, visit www.canihelp.org
(Talk of the Town photos by Katie Strandlund) Above, Kyle Chaney bounds through the air into Troy Cedar Lake, enjoying one of the many activities that brings campers back year after year – continuing Camp Whitley’s 80 year summer tradition in Whitley County. Below, the joy of the Camp Whitley experience fills the hearts of several first year campers.
By Carrie Gates 
Christmas is not to early to think about Camp Whitley 2010! In fact, many local boys and girls area already looking forward to the summer months and the fun they'll have at Camp Whitley.
A Camp Whitley gift certificate makes a perfect gift! Gift certificates may be used toward a camper’s registration or in the camp store for a favorite sweatshirt. A Camp Whitley gift certificate is a great idea for grandparents to purchase or for stocking stuffers.
Camp Whitley is currently offering a special Christmas deal -- any gift certificate purchased at a minimum of $75 will include a Camp Whitley t-shirt, wrist band and arrive with a box and bow!
Gift Certificates are available in any denomination. Additionally, there is a wide assortment of Camp Whitley sweatshirts, t-shirts, sweatpants, shorts and bags!
For more information, visit the website at www.campwhitley.com or call 691-3893.
(Talk of the Town photo provided) The employees of ChromaSource, located at 600 East and US 30 in eastern Whitley County, conducted a Christmas food drive over the last two weeks. The food was donated to the Salvation Army which has created a food pantry at Eagle Quest Church, north of Columbia City. Employees conducting the food drive internally included Laura Collier, Valerie Deason, Brandi Bilger, Barb Elbrecht and Steve Scherf. Shown above, from left, are Laura Collier, Valerie Deason, Steve Scherf and Barb Elbrecht.
(Talk of the Town photo by Pam Hively) Santa paid an extra special visit to Peabody Public Library on Tuesday, delighting little ones with his presence during story time. Above, Santa holds one-month-old Heidi Aranda Tuesday. Santa will again be a special guest at the Peabody Public Library’s story time this Thursday, December 17, at 4 p.m.
If you are a non-custodial parent or grandparent and could not qualify to sign up your children, but still need assistance, there will be some items available on a first come, first serve basis. The give-a-way for non-custodial family members will be this tomorrow, Thursday, December 17, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
For additional information or answers to your questions, please call the Salvation Army at 248-1711.
(Talk of the Town photos by Viv Sade of BuscoVoice.com) Above, at left, Ben Rinker was awarded the Churubusco Fire Department's Firefighter of the Year award. At right, Tadd Shively was given the Award of Heroism for rescuing a woman from her burning mobile home.
By Viv Sade of BuscoVoice.com
During their annual elections and monthly business meeting Monday night, two Churubusco firefighters were given awards for dedication and heroism.
Ben Rinker was given the Firefighter of the Year award for his dedication to the department and it’s members. “Always willing to help out and be involved”, said firefighter Chris Tomlinson who presented Rinker with the award. Every week firefighters are asked to come down to the station and do maintenance on the trucks, clean the station and provide general housekeeping and Ben is always there willing to help out.
Tadd Shively received an Award of Heroism for saving the life of a woman from a burning mobile home in January of this year. Shively was the first firefighter to arrive on the scene and found heavy smoke coming from the mobile home and a woman still inside waiting for the fire department to show up. He acted quickly and safely in getting not only the woman but himself out of the mobile home before flames errupted from one of the rooms.
In addition to presenting awards, the department also elected leaders for next year. Roger Bennett will be the fire chief and Wayne Krider will be the assistant chief. The following individuals have been elected to serve on the board of directors: Darrell Resler, Chris Holloway, Ben Rinker, Kris Bair, Justin Snyder, Bruce Shanabarger and Ron Slagal.
(Talk of the Town photo by Viv Sade of BuscoVoice.com) Above, James Fehring and Harrison Sade were recently awarded their Eagle Scout awards.
By Viv Sade of BuscoVoice.com
James Fehring and Harrison Sade are the two latest Scouts of local Troop 81 to be recognized in the Boys Scouts Court of Honor after attaining the highest and most prestigious rank of Scouting - the Eagle Scout award.
Fehring and Sade were honored at a ceremony held in their honor at the Boy Scout Building in the Churubusco Community Park Sunday, Nov. 15, 2009.
Former scoutmaster and Eagle Scout Jimmy Allman led the ceremonies, asking all of the Eagle Scouts in the room to stand and be recognized. One of the oldest Eagle Scouts in the room was the grandfather of James Fehring.
Current Scoutmaster and Eagle Scout, Rob Pope presented the Eagle badge to both boys.
Pope told humorous and poignant stories of watching Fehring and Sade grow from boys to young men through the ranks and activities of scouting.
The Eagle Scout is the highest award a Boy Scout may receive. There are many requirements, one of which is to have a project that benefits others. Another of the requirements is to raise all of the money necessary to pay for the project.
For his project, Sade chose to paint all of the playground equipment at Churubusco United Methodist Church.
Fehring’s project was to renovate the landscaping at Cornerstone Christian Church in Merriam.
Each boy was asked to select a mentor - a person they credited with being a positive and inspiring influence in their lives.
Harrison chose his father, Paul Sade, and James chose a teacher, James Folland. The Scouts pinned their respective mentors and thanks them for making a difference intheir lives.
Harrison is the son of Paul and Michele Sade of Churubusco. James is the son of John and Rhonda Fehring of Churubusco.
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) At the end of the Whitley County Consolidated School board meeting, school board member Nikki Baker and Dr. Laura Huffman extend arms and embrace. News of Huffman's resignation was taken in an emotional way by several board members. Below, Dr. Laura Huffman listens to the proceedings of the board meeting.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano 
Whitley County Consolidated School Superintendent Dr. Laura Huffman tendered her resignation from the school corporation this evening.
At the commencement of the school board meeting, Huffman handed written copies of her letter of resignation to board members. According to those in attendance, the announcement seemed to have caught many off guard.
Huffman has accepted a position as a school principal with Putnam County Schools in Florida. Her resignation is effective January 9, 2010.
Huffman has long been a supporter of art education and spearheaded the New Tech initiative within Whitley County Consolidated Schools.
The Senate District 17 state senate race has drawn narrower for the Republican nomination.
Candidate Ron Fusselman, owner of a Huntington coffee house, announced late last week that he had decided to drop out of that race. Fusselman has indicated, instead, that he would like to oppose incumbent Dan Leonard for the District 50 state representative’s seat.
Still vying for the seat are Whitley County resident and county councilman Jim Banks and Tom Wall of Huntington.
At the same time he removed himself from the senate race, Fusselman announced his endorsement of Banks for the seat, saying he supported Banks as the replacement for retiring Senator Gary “Doc” Dillon.
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Santa Claus, above, observes the cheerful disposition of all in attendance at the Senior Day events in South Whitley last Tuesday. The event was sponsored by DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
A record number of seniors bundled up and brought out their holiday cheer for a full day of Christmas fun last Tuesday.
The events, coordinated by DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, included a luncheon at The Woodlands Senior Center in Columbia City followed by a free movie and entertainment at The Kent Theatre in South Whitley.
More than 160 seniors arrived for lunch at The Woodlands, setting a lunch attendance record according to the staff there.
Following lunch, the seniors traveled to Kent Theatre in South Whitley. Transportation from The Woodlands was coordinated through the Whitley Transit service.
At Kent Theatre, guests were greeted with entertainment by the Red Hat Strutters, a presentation by the Korean War Veterans, a visit from Santa Claus and a Christmas carol sing-a-long lead by South Whitley resident and Pierceton pastor Glenn Hall. Smiles spread across faces up and down the aisles as guests enjoyed the day’s activities and the sense of joy was palpable.
Seniors finished the day watching “The Christmas Child.”
Eddie Beagles Jr. of DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral home said they have held the Christmas season senior day, but had not offered it recently. This year, however, they restarted the free event for seniors and were very pleased with the attendance and positive comments they’d received. Beagles said they hope to offer the event again next year, applauding the Kent Theatre and The Woodlands staff for their help in making the event successful.
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Above, Whitley County's medical history includes the former Linvill Hospital. The special committee on local healthcare history has been charged with a goal of compiling stories and photos prior to the opening of the new Parkview Whitley Hospital.
Article provided
The Parkview Whitley Hospital Foundation board of directors' history committee is accumulating timeline facts, stories of healthcare delivery and caregivers, as well as illustrative photos.
The purpose is to gather material to help tell the history of healthcare leading up to the creation of Whitley County Memorial Hospital and what has brought the hospital to where healthcare is today in Whitley County.
The committee also is putting together the story of the leaders who possessed the vision to develop healthcare in Whitley County, and who shared their resources in order to make the hospital possible. If you have any information you would like to share, please contact Dr. Clark Waterfall at 244-7197, John Hatcher at 691-3371 or Kay Fleck at 248-8278.
What follows are the CC Deli Soups of the Week:
Monday: French Onion and Stuffed Pepper
Tuesday: Pepperjack Bacon and Chicken Noodle
Wednesday: Talk of the Town’s White Chili and Tomato Bisque
Thursday: Black Bean and Broccoli with Cheese
Friday: Veggie Beef and Potato Bacon
(Talk of the Town photo courtesy of Susie Duncan Sexton)
Old Type Writer columnist Susie Duncan Sexton has brought us her latest installment with two entries and many memories of Christmastime past and interesting stories of the famous people she's met over the years. Click here to read more. Above, Susie provided this photo of a Christmas float many years ago for the Blue Bell factory featuring Wrangler jeans. The float is parked near what is now the Marshall Memorial building in Columbia City.
(Talk of the Town photo provided) 
A great deal of holiday packaging is underway at Kernel Colada’s Snack Shack in Columbia City – with the expressed goal of making Christmas a little more fun for Whitley County-related soldiers serving elsewhere this holiday season. Store owner Lindsey Hively has been busy collecting names and packaging gourmet popcorn in her first-ever “Kernels for the Troops” collection drive.
If you have a soldier you’d like to make sure receives a treat from home this year or if you’d like to send a bag of popcorn to a soldier you’ve never met, stop by Kernel Colada’s Snack Shack at 120 West Walker Way in Columbia City for more details. You may also call Kernel Colada’s Snack Shack at 244-3745. The store is open Monday-Saturday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Popcorn bags for the troops range in price from $1-$5 each.
Visit the new Kernel Colada’s Snack Shack website at
If you're looking at gloomy skies and wondering what you might be able to do in the community this afternoon that would be fun and entertaining, consider attending the Holiday Traditions open house at the Whitley County Historical Society from 1-4 p.m.
There is no admission to attend. There, you'll find crafts, children's activities, an entertaining program with a bell choir, hors d' oeuvres and holiday music sure to get you in the spirit. Tour the beautiful Thomas Riley Marshall home and see how it has been impressively appointed for Christmas.
The museum is located at 108 West Jefferson Street, Columbia City.
By Linda Hyndman
The Columbia City Area Chamber of Commerce has been preparing for the 5th annual Fire and Ice Festival, January 23rd and 24th. The Festival host ice carvers from the tri state area who will carve blocks of ice into various designs. Most of the ice carvings will be on the Courthouse lawn but carvings will also be located throughout the County.
This year’s Festival will be full of activities during that will entertain all ages. Saturday at The Youth Center (201 W. Market St, across from City Hall) there will be an Ice Cream Eating contest, sponsored by DQ Grill and Chill and special activities for children, sponsored by the YMCA Whitley County. On Sunday “chili experts” will be able to compete in the 3rd annual Chili Cook Off, sponsored by the Senior Center. A Craft Bazaar with a variety of vendors will also be taking place on Saturday and Sunday at the Youth Center.
Block carvings will once again be available to be sponsored by a businesses, individuals or organizations. The carvings will be located on the Courthouse lawn and throughout the County at business locations. The cost to sponsor an ice carving is $175 for one block of ice. Multi-block carvings and other sponsorships are also available, contact the Chamber for pricing. The ice carvings and sponsorship information will remain on the Courthouse or at the business for as long as the sculpture lasts.
Please contact the Chamber office at 248-8131 to reserve blocks of ice or for information regarding sponsorships. Deadline to register is January 8, 2010.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there at least 14,000 people in Allen County that speak Spanish or Spanish Creole. Additionally, there are large populations of Spanish-speaking residents in the surrounding counties as well. With the growing Spanish-speaking population in the region, the Red Cross recognizes the need to extend its lifesaving training opportunities to members of the non-English-speaking community. This Red Cross course prepares participants to respond to those in need with the confidence that comes from being trained in lifesaving CPR and first aid skills.
For more information or to sign up for the class, please call 260.484.9336, ext. 242. Class cost is $55 and includes all participant materials and fees.
All collections beginning the week of January 4 will be completed on the company’s normal schedule.
(Talk of the Town graphic by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Times change and now the images that were once framed and hung around the main hall at Columbia City High School have been replaced with LCD screens which show the old photographs in succinct, high tech way. Above, a few of the many, many great moments in CCHS history that are now available for purchase.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Gazing upward along the main hallway at Columbia City High School, great moments in school history were captured in time. There were the black and white images of a 1950s basketball team celebrating in the locker room, fists clenched, fresh faces gleaming. Further down, there was an early 1970s team surrounded by long-haired cheerleaders holding their hands in a sign of peace – or was it a “V” for victory? There were also the 1980s track stars, the wrestling victors, Spell Bowl champions and other academic teams honored…so many enshrined up and down the hallway.
But as with so many things, a time came for a change and earlier this year, the oversized framed images were all removed from the walls, the walls were repainted and now, several media screens hang in their place – and in a more concise way, share those same, now digitized images.
According to Columbia City High School athletic director Geoff Penrod, they were simply running out of space.
“Should we take one down to put another one up,” Penrod asked.
Instead, all photographs were taken down, scanned, a few were digitally edited if necessary – and now, they’re being offered to the public in two ways.
First, beginning January 5, 2010, any CCHS or CCJHS student that was featured in an individual photo may visit the CCHS Athletic Office and pick that photo up for a donation to the department. There is no set amount for the donation. Photos will first be offered to the individual featured and then to their family.
All of the team photos have been donated to the Columbia City High School Alumni Association and will eventually be on display elsewhere once again, with the exception of the wrestling team images which will be displayed by the CCHS Wrestling Club.
Second, the images will soon be available in the form of CD sets that can be purchased. Penrod said the photos have been divided into three CDs: Fall, Winter and Spring. Each CD is $5 or you can purchase the full set for $12. These CDs feature the athletic images only, but Penrod said the academic images will eventually be available for purchase as well.
If you’re worried those images we all remember staring at in the main hallway won’t be available for future generations to look at – they are now on constant rotation on the large LCD panels posted throughout the main hallway.
To order a CD or CD set, send your name, address, CD or set requested, and a check made out to CCHS to: Columbia City High School, attn: Geoff Penrod, 600 North Whitley Street, Columbia City, IN 46725.
This Saturday and Sunday, December 12-13, the puppet teams from Merriam Christian Chapel will be at the Columbia City Walmart in the Garden Center area. The puppets will be singing their favorite Christmas carols and songs of the season. The first show will start at 1:15 p.m. each afternoons and will last approximately 40 minutes. Come and go as needed, or pull up a chair and celebrate. There will be breaks in between shows and we will have fun until 4 p.m. on Saturday and 3:30 p.m. on Sunday.
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Mmm! A plate of chocolate covered strawberries, above, would be a hit at the next holiday function.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
Wracking your brain for a gift idea or the ideal item to bring the hostess at the next holiday function you attend? Or something for the kids to give their teachers? Or a nice gift for your employees?
Here’s a thought: contact chef Jennifer Christman of Casual Elegance Catering and Personal Cooking. If you call between now and December 15, you can order from among several sweet and sumptuous treat boxes.
Christman makes chocolate dipped strawberries, turtles, truffles, coconut or peanut butter bon bons, peppermint bar, caramels, toffee, fudge and big, four pound gourmet chocolate caramel apples. She also offers mini cakes and cheesecakes -- and much, much more.
Her minimum order is five pounds and the price is $5 per pound with delivery included.
For more information, contact Jennifer Christman at 409-4211 or via e-mail at jenniferjchristman@yahoo.com
(Talk of the Town file photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Brian Kyler, shown below at a Whitley County Shrine Club event, and his wife, Renee, are owners of Be Adaptive Equipment, a company that creates and manufactures sporting equipment for the physically challenged.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
A local company made the national news today as a quadriplegic man from New Jersey credits Be Adaptive Equipment with allowing him to be a hunter once again. 
The man had been an avid hunter, but his last hunting trip was a little over 30 years ago this November. The next day, he was seriously injured during a high school football game and never went hunting again…until recently.
An internet search brought him to Be Adaptive Equipment of Columbia City. The company, owned by Brian and Renee Kyler, was founded in 2002 and produces high quality hunting, shooting and fishing equipment for disabled sportsmen.
According to the company’s website, “Our goal is to help physically challenged people get back into doing the activities they love like hunting, shooting, fishing, archery and ATV’s. Our company designs and manufactures activity trays, shooting rests for rifles, shotguns, pistols, crossbows, and compound bows, hand controls and lifts for ATV’s & much more.”
To read the full story about the New Jersey Man and Be Adaptive Equipment, click here. To visit Be Adaptive Equipment's website, click here.
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Hank Workman of Columbia City has made a business of using your old decorating items and creating a fresh, inviting holiday look for your home.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
If it hasn’t happened by now, is it still going to? We’re now in the count down to Christmas and if decorating the tree hasn’t made it to the top of the list, will it? 
A local resident has made decorating and finding a fresh look for the holidays part of his “to do” list – and he still has time to add you.
Hank Workman of Columbia City has several clients in Nashville, Tennessee, but hopes to get “Deck The Halls” off the ground here in Whitley County as well.
“It really is a sweet deal for those who are tired of putting up their christmas decor and also looking for a fresh eye,” Workman said.
On the designated day, Workman arrives to find a Christmas tree up with lights on it and boxes of holiday décor in boxes nearby.
“Having had conversations with them, I know what rooms they are most interested in,” Workman added. “The client leaves for the time allotted and I go to work.”
And here’s the best part, “When they return, their house is decorated and they didn’t lift a finger,” he said. “It’s a great thing as people’s busy schedules get fuller and fuller.”
With three young children, Darcy Geiger knows how full a schedule can get.
“Well, 2 years ago Hank auctioned his decorating service at our church harvest dinner,” Geiger said. “I was determined to get this because I was pregnant with #3 and really not in the mood to decorate.”
“I knew Hank did a wonderful job, I trusted him, and wanted to see what someone else would do with my stuff,” Geiger said. “I brought out all of my goodies and set them out in my dining room and the fun began!”
“I went shopping for the day,” Geiger continued. “He called me about 4-5 hours into it and said ‘well, I can't believe it, but I think I'm done!"
Arriving back home, Geiger was excited to see the results.
“It was beautiful. He did so many different things with my Christmas decorations. I loved all of it,” Geiger said. “Many people came over just to see what my house looked like after Hank was done.”
“Hank is very talented...in so many different ways,” Geiger said. “He cooks, bakes and decorates anything. Most people have their own style of decorating...Hank gets it all!”
Once the holidays are over and you’ve got to put your house back in order, you can again call on Workman’s expertise as he redesigns your interior using items you already own.
For more information or quotes on having your hectic home decorated for the holidays, visit his website at http://hw-design.biz/ or send him an email at info@hw-design.bizWhitley County travelers are urged to use extra caution this afternoon. High winds and cold temperatures have combined to make for some difficult roadway situations. Currently, an accident on US 30 near the former Essex location has traffic tied up. Expect delays in that area. Keep an eye on Talk of the Town for weather-related delays or closings as they become available.
(Talk of the Town photos provided) Above, Greg Fahl of Orizon Real Estate was honored with the 2009 Outstanding Service Award by the Fort Wayne Area Association of Realtors. Below, joining in his surprise award celebration were co-workers Linda Walters, left, and Tina Houser, right.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
If you’ve ever met Greg Fahl, you’ll know he’s a very humble person.
You might see him running along SR 9, waiving at passersby. You might have met him in the course of a real estate transaction or while volunteering for projects in Whitley County. 
In the past 33 years, however, he’s accomplished a lot in the field of real estate and he’s probably the last person to tell you about it. Fortunately, there are others who’ve been watching.
On Thursday evening, Fahl was honored for his work as leader in regional real estate and his unselfish nature and commitment to doing right for others.
Fahl was honored by the Fort Wayne area Association of Realtors with the 2009 Outstanding Service Award.
The award came as a complete surprise to Fahl, who according to co-worker Linda Walters, didn’t realize he had won the award even when the emcee began discussing real estate in Whitley County.
Fahl is co-owner and president of Orizon Real Estate. A native of Columbia City, he has been a real estate broker since 1976 and founded Orizon Real Estate in 1978. He is a graduate of Indiana University.
Professionally, Fahl is affiliated with ABR, CRB, CRS and GRI. He is a member of the Fort Wayne Area Association of Realtors, where he serves on the professional standards committee. He is a member of the Indiana Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors.
Locally, he is the secretary of the Whitley County Economic Development Corporation board of directors and is a member of the Columbia City Area Chamber of Commerce ambassador team.
Faith Christian Academy board of directors, staff and students invite the community to join them for their annual Christmas program, “Christmas Around the World.”
The program will be held Thursday, December 17, at Trinity Evangelical Presbyterian Church on Business 30 West in Columbia City.
The program will begin at 7 p.m. and will include presentations from each class about how Christmas is celebrated in various countries, including Ethiopia, Haiti and many European countries. Everyone will join in singing some Christmas carols.
Refreshments will be served following the performance. For any additional information, contact the school at 248-4872.
Faith Christian Academy is Whitley County’s only private, non-denominational Christian school serving children in preschool through high school.
Aumsbaugh Flooring in Columbia City is hosting the Columbia City Area Chamber of Commerce’s Meet Me At 5 networking event this Thursday, December 10, from 5-6:30 p.m. at Aumsbaugh’s new location on Depoy Drive near First Church of God.
The event will include beverages, refreshments and mingling with fellow businesspeople from around Whitley County.
Admission is $2 per person which will be put pooled to provide a door prize. The drawing winner must be present to win.
You do not need to be a Chamber member to participate.
(Talk of the Town photos by Kelley Sheiss) The November session of Leadership Whitley County included productive discussion on the topic of diversity. Above, second from left, Patty Weybright shares a discovery while fellow class members, from left, Carrie Hoffman, Betty Mishler and Angela Maley listen.
By Kelley Sheiss
Leadership Whitley County (LWC) traveled to C & A Tool in Churubusco for its November session focusing on Diversity. The sponsor for the program day was NIPSCO, a long-time and generous supporter of the LWC program. 
The morning kicked-off with class members providing informative and entertaining reports on the county tour experience. In October, following a presentation by John Lefever of Star Insurance and Alan Tio of Whitley County Economic Development on the structure of county government and the EDC, LWC class members divided into five groups and toured different sections of Whitley County. Groups were provided with disposable cameras, maps, Whitley County historical books and given suggested points of interest to visit. Pictures taken were assembled in collages and each group presented their tour report as the awareness portion of the November session. A variety of interesting facts relating to Whitley County were shared in the reports. Two groups opted to show videos of their tour experience, providing a refreshing look at different areas of our community.
The main topic for the day focused on Diversity presented by Merrily Hamp of Organizational and Leadership Development. A resident of Lagrange, Hamp recently retired after 30 years with the Purdue Extension Service. The program focused on diversity of thoughts, attitudes, assumptions and stereotypes. Class members were asked to share personal stories and discuss diverse characteristics of others we see, as well as those that may not be visible. Class members engaged in a variety of interesting dialogue and group activities, including a "Privilege Walk," an activity that took some class members out of their comfort zone. Participants then were asked to develop their own definition of diversity as a homework assignment.
Following the session, the LWC class enjoyed a catered lunch by Mountaintop Coffeehouse and a tour of the C & A Tool facility by LWC alums and C & A Tool employees Sean Oldfather and Todd Rehrer. The tour included in an inside look at the company's recent expansion and examples of the newest technology the company is using to remain a cutting-edge, successful business.
The support of local business, industry and organizations is key to the success of Leadership Whitley County. Sponsors for the 2009-10 year include: CenturyLink, NIPSCO, Old Settler's Day Association, J & J Insurance, Northeastern REMC Operation Round-Up, Star Financial Bank & Star Insurance, ABCM Enterprises Inc., Pro Fed Credit Union and LWC Alumni including June Keiser, Ava Lillmars, Tam Parker, Tom Rethlake, Janet Scank, R.D. Schrader, John Slavich, Esther Smith, Jeff Walker, Melinda Woll. This support, financial and/or in-kind, serves as a key to success for offering quality programs that compose the core of Leadership Whitley County.
The December session of Leadership Whitley County will be held at Whitko High School in South Whitley and will focus on teamwork and collaboration. For more information on participating in the next class of Leadership Whitley County, supporting the program, or having an informational presentation made to your business or organization, contact Kelley Sheiss, program director, at 799-4045 or 3dsheiss@gmail.com More information on Leadership Whitley County can be found at www.leadershipwc.org.
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) Above, Pizza Hut manager Rob Brumbaugh, left, presents a check to Deputy Tom Smith, Deputy Tim Johnson and Sheriff Mark Hodges to support the first annual “Shop with The Sheriff” program. At bottom, from left, Lisa Van Donk and Susie Ness of Wal Mart present a check to Deputy Tom Smith, Deputy Tim Johnson and Sheriff Mark Hodges.
By Jennifer Zartman Romano
In an activity that helps brighten the holidays for children in need and fosters the development of a positive relationship between youth and law enforcement, shopping might be brisk Wednesday evening at the local Wal Mart store.
As part of the Whitley County Shop with The Sheriff program, local sheriff’s department employees will be paired up with needy children tonight to do a little Christmas shopping.
In all, an estimated 22 children will be participating thanks to funds raised from several local sources, including donations from Wal Mart and the Columbia City Pizza Hut. Officials are pleased as the initial expectation was that 12-16 might be able to participate this year.
"The more kids we can help, the better," said Sheriff Mark Hodges.
On October 13, a fundraiser was held at Pizza Hut which, according to store manager Rob Brumbaugh, raised $473 for the project. Brumbaugh recently presented a check to the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department.
The Columbia City Wal Mart store also provided a $1000 grant to the Shop with the Sheriff project.
This is the first year for the event, but with the heightened level of need in the community, Hodges believes it will be very needed by some families. Children were selected for the project with recommendations from local schools, food banks and the welfare department.
The event also has the possibility of laying a foundation of trust and respect for law enforcement officials among children, reducing the level of fear or uncertainty they might feel in seeing uniformed officers.
Each child will be paired up with a deputy and another sheriff’s department employee for the shopping trip.
“This is our inaugural event,” said Deputy Tom Smith. “It sounds like fun. We really appreciate what Pizza Hut and Wal Mart have done for us.”
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Smarties of Indiana, a car club for Smart car owners, will be having a drive-through event at Wonderland of Lights in Morsches Park on Saturday, December 12, from 6-7 p.m. According to Roxy Hagans of Toys for Tots, the club will be donating new, unwrapped toys to Toys for Tots of Whitley County. Hagans encourages anyone who owns a Smart car or who is interested in watching a parade of these new, fun gas-saving cars to bring a toy and join the fun as well. Smart car owners from all over the state are expected to participate in this toy drive to support local children.
Steve and Sharon Hostetler, owners of the CC Deli in downtown Columbia City, are pleased with the outpouring of support for the Toys for Tots drive at their location last week, but say they’d like to do even more.
This week, bring in a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots and you can select an item from the bakery case and also get a small or medium drink for free!
If you haven’t tried them yet, the hot Reuben sandwiches will be available for purchase on Thursday and Friday this week. Last time they were offered, they were popular items.
What follows are the Soups of the Week for the rest of this week:
Tuesday: Broccoli & Cheese and Tomato Bisque
Wednesday: Talk of the Town’s White Chili and French Onion
Thursday: Cheeseburger and Chicken with Rice
Friday: Veggie Beef and Cheezy Potato
(Talk of the Town photo provided) The Colonel Augustin de la Balme DAR Chapter is currently selling copies of their first calendar. All proceeds will support the repair of the memorial in rural Union Township, Whitley County.
Article provided
The Colonel Augustin de la Balme DAR Chapter has compiled a “2010 Whitley County” calendar. The calendar features pictures, numerous events and people from earlier times in Whitley County.
“We hope you will enjoy the calendar and the memories it brings to mind,” said Charlotte Blair. “They make great gifts as well as a keepsake of earlier times in our county. The chapter plans to make the Whitley County calendar an annual project for our community. We thank the businesses and individuals who supported this project.”
Calendars are priced at $5. Proceeds from the sale of this calendar will go towards the repair of the DAR Revolutionary War Memorial located in Union Township.
Calendars are available for purchase at the Whitley County Historical Museum at the Thomas Riley Marshall home and museum, 108 West Jefferson Street, in Columbia City.
Huntington University’s EXCEL adult degree programs will hold an informational meeting from 6 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, December 8, at the Columbia City site on 220 Frontage Road.
This free-of-charge event is open to anyone interested in the possibility of pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree through the EXCEL program. Carrie Hoffman, admissions consultant, will be on hand to answer questions.
EXCEL offers evening and online classes tailored to the schedule of working adults. Onsite classes are held one night per week, one subject at a time. Classes last five to eight weeks and lead to an associate degree in organizational management or Christian ministry or bachelor’s degrees in accounting, business administration, human resource management, not-for-profit leadership or nursing.
EXCEL also offers the Gateway Program through which adults can take continuing education classes for personal enrichment or toward the completion of a college degree.
EXCEL classes are held in Huntington, Columbia City and Wabash and online.
For more information about the EXCEL program, log on to www.hu-excel.com, e-mail excel@huntington.edu, or call (260) 244-4350 or (800) 600-4888.
(Talk of the Town photos by Jennifer Zartman Romano) DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home has collected well over 200 coats for the annual Coats for Kids giveaway at the Salavation Army of Whitley County. Thanks to the continued generosity of Village Cleaners in Columbia City, those coats have all been freshly cleaned and made to look brand new. The staff of DeMoney-Grimes visited Village Cleaners on Thursday to pick up the latest load of clean coats that will soon keep local children warm. Above, from left, is Shawn Bishop of Village Cleaners and Sharon Brockhaus, Kevin Nicodemus and Sarah Howard , all of DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home. 
At right, Shawn Bishop shows DeMoney-Grimes staff the large machine used to clean the coats brought in to Village Cleaners.
DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home has delivered all of the newly cleaned coats, hats, mittens and gloves to the Salvation Army of Whitley County. Today, the Salvation Army will open Coats for Kids from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. today at Eagle Quest Church.
The coats will be given away to children on a first come, first served basis. Parents or guardians should be Whitley County residents and must bring an ID.
Eagle Quest Church is located one half mile north of US 30 on SR 109, just north of Columbia City.
Many people face depression this time of the year. If you suspect your feelings may be more than "the blues," Father Larry Kramer urges you to seek professional help. Read more in his latest installment of Faith Focus by clicking here.
Runners will keep cool now and kids will keep cool in the summer if the upcoming Dashing Through the Snow 5K is a success.
Planned by the Columbia City Parks Department, participants can run or walk their way along a course through Morsches Park and enjoy the beautifully lighted holiday displays.
The evening race begins at 6 p.m. on December 18. If you have not pre-registered, you may register for the race at 4 p.m. in the park pavilion that afternoon. Registration the day of the event is $20.
All proceeds from the race will be used to support water usage for the Splashpad during the summer of 2010.
Runners and walkers of all ages are encouraged to participate. Awards will be presented to the top three finishers, overall awards will be presented for individuals and masters participants and so that no one leaves empty handed, long sleeved race shirts will be given to each participant.
For more information, contact the Columbia City Parks Department at 248-5180 or visit www.ColumbiaCityParks.us
Runners will keep cool now and kids will keep cool in the summer if the upcoming Dashing Through the Snow 5K is a success.
Planned by the Columbia City Parks Department, participants can run or walk their way along a course through Morsches Park and enjoy the beautifully lighted holiday displays.
The evening race begins at 6 p.m. on December 18. If you have not pre-registered, you may register for the race at 4 p.m. in the park pavilion that afternoon. Registration the day of the event is $20.
All proceeds from the race will be used to support water usage for the Splashpad during the summer of 2010.
Runners and walkers of all ages are encouraged to participate. Awards will be presented to the top three finishers, overall awards will be presented for individuals and masters participants and so that no one leaves empty handed, long sleeved race shirts will be given to each participant.
For more information, contact the Columbia City Parks Department at 248-5180 or visit www.ColumbiaCityParks.us
Picture Perfect Floral Design is still collecting children’s hats, gloves, scarves, and socks for Whitley County families all week long during their ongoing Holiday Open House. Everything for the holidays & in the bargain shop is now half off storewide.
Bring your donation to Picture Perfect Floral Design at 2600 Etna Road in rural Whitley County all day on Friday and receive a 10% discount on your next floral order.
All donations will be distributed on Sat. Dec 5th during the Coats for Kids.
For more information, call 244-4811.
Picture Perfect Floral Design is still collecting children’s hats, gloves, scarves, and socks for Whitley County families all week long during their ongoing Holiday Open House. Everything for the holidays & in the bargain shop is now half off storewide.
Bring your donation to Picture Perfect Floral Design at 2600 Etna Road in rural Whitley County all day on Friday and receive a 10% discount on your next floral order.
All donations will be distributed on Sat. Dec 5th during the Coats for Kids.
For more information, call 244-4811.
If you'd like to participate in Caroling for a Cause and send a large group of carolers to the doorstep of a family member or special friend, click here for more information. The deadline to particpate is December 8, 2009.
If you'd like to participate in Caroling for a Cause and send a large group of carolers to the doorstep of a family member or special friend, click here for more information. The deadline to particpate is December 8, 2009.
If you are in a violent relationship and want help, please contact the YWCA Domestic Violence Crisis Line at 1-800-441-4073.
If you are in a violent relationship and want help, please contact the YWCA Domestic Violence Crisis Line at 1-800-441-4073.
Leadership Whitley County’s First Friday Networking event for December 4 has a bit of a different “ring” to it!
The group will be hosting a “Holiday Happy Hour” for alumni and existing class members from 4:30- 5:30 p.m. on Friday, December 4, 2009, at the Northside Grille in Columbia City. Enjoy munchies, a soda or drink, and engage in a little cheerful networking during the holiday season. Everyone will meet inside the front window at Northside Grille.
First Friday Networking will head to South Whitley in January for a lunchtime gathering.
Please RSVP to Kelley Sheiss at 799-4045.
Leadership Whitley County’s First Friday Networking event for December 4 has a bit of a different “ring” to it!
The group will be hosting a “Holiday Happy Hour” for alumni and existing class members from 4:30- 5:30 p.m. on Friday, December 4, 2009, at the Northside Grille in Columbia City. Enjoy munchies, a soda or drink, and engage in a little cheerful networking during the holiday season. Everyone will meet inside the front window at Northside Grille.
First Friday Networking will head to South Whitley in January for a lunchtime gathering.
Please RSVP to Kelley Sheiss at 799-4045.
STAR is proud to sponsor the Fort Wayne Philharmonic’s Holiday Pops Concert in Whitley County. The concert will be held Tuesday, December 22, 2009, at 7 p.m. at the First Church of God, 1200 West DePoy Drive, in Columbia City.
“The Fort Wayne Philharmonic’s Holiday Pops concert is always a highlight of the holiday season and we are excited to bring the philharmonic to Whitley County,” said David Smith, president of STAR’s Columbia City region.
“STAR is proud to bring back the Holiday Pops to Whitley County. This special Philharmonic concert will create a memorable performance for you and your whole family,” said John Lefever, president of STAR Insurance Agency.
Tickets are $12 for adults and $7 for children and can be purchased at STAR’s banking centers and insurance offices in Columbia City, Churubusco and South Whitley, DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home and First Church of God or by calling (260) 481-0777.
STAR has sponsored the Holiday Pops concert in Whitley County for two years.
STAR is proud to sponsor the Fort Wayne Philharmonic’s Holiday Pops Concert in Whitley County. The concert will be held Tuesday, December 22, 2009, at 7 p.m. at the First Church of God, 1200 West DePoy Drive, in Columbia City.
“The Fort Wayne Philharmonic’s Holiday Pops concert is always a highlight of the holiday season and we are excited to bring the philharmonic to Whitley County,” said David Smith, president of STAR’s Columbia City region.
“STAR is proud to bring back the Holiday Pops to Whitley County. This special Philharmonic concert will create a memorable performance for you and your whole family,” said John Lefever, president of STAR Insurance Agency.
Tickets are $12 for adults and $7 for children and can be purchased at STAR’s banking centers and insurance offices in Columbia City, Churubusco and South Whitley, DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home and First Church of God or by calling (260) 481-0777.
STAR has sponsored the Holiday Pops concert in Whitley County for two years.
The Columbia City High School Lady Eagle girls basketball boosters will be hosting a chili supper at the high school on December 11 beginning at 4:30 p.m. and continuing until the start of the varsity game. The dinner is $4 for adults and $3 for children. Everyone is invited to come and eat before watching the girls take on their NHC Conference rival, Norwell.
The Columbia City High School Lady Eagle girls basketball boosters will be hosting a chili supper at the high school on December 11 beginning at 4:30 p.m. and continuing until the start of the varsity game. The dinner is $4 for adults and $3 for children. Everyone is invited to come and eat before watching the girls take on their NHC Conference rival, Norwell.
Pro Fed Credit Union is once again sponsoring The Lighthouse, Whitley County’s homeless and transitional living shelter, during this Christmas season.
Pro Fed Credit Union is seeking donations from the community to help make this Christmas a joyous occasion for the nine families residing at the shelter. Those interested in donating can find the residents’ Christmas wishes on gift tags in the lobby of Pro Fed Credit Union.
The tags and unwrapped gifts should be delivered to Pro Fed Credit Union by Wednesday, December 16, 2009. Pro Fed employees will wrap and deliver the gifts to the Lighthouse Shelter.
Pro Fed Credit Union is located in the Columbia Plaza, at 545 N. Line Street, next to Dollar General. For more information about the project, contact the credit union at 244-7222.
Pro Fed Credit Union is once again sponsoring The Lighthouse, Whitley County’s homeless and transitional living shelter, during this Christmas season.
Pro Fed Credit Union is seeking donations from the community to help make this Christmas a joyous occasion for the nine families residing at the shelter. Those interested in donating can find the residents’ Christmas wishes on gift tags in the lobby of Pro Fed Credit Union.
The tags and unwrapped gifts should be delivered to Pro Fed Credit Union by Wednesday, December 16, 2009. Pro Fed employees will wrap and deliver the gifts to the Lighthouse Shelter.
Pro Fed Credit Union is located in the Columbia Plaza, at 545 N. Line Street, next to Dollar General. For more information about the project, contact the credit union at 244-7222.
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) The Whitley County Historical Society recently met with members of the Old Settlers Day Association board to thank them for supporting historical education in the community for the past 10 years. Once again in 2009, the Old Settlers Day Association provided the Whitley County Historical Society with a grant to provide educational programming for local youths -- and this year the organization used the funds to present a highly successful, three-day Civil War camp for local children in June. Click here to see photos of the camp funded by the Old Settlers Day Association grant.
Above, several Old Settlers Day Association and Whitley County Historical Society board members, staff and camp participants (wearing Civil War-era kepi hats) met to personally thank the OSDA for their gift. Above, from left, is Jim Brock, Dennis Warnick, Mahri Romano, James Romano, Gabe Tippmann, Mike Redman, Chuck Matthieu, Dani Tippmann, Angela Maley, Bev Henley and Chuck Jones.
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) The Whitley County Historical Society recently met with members of the Old Settlers Day Association board to thank them for supporting historical education in the community for the past 10 years. Once again in 2009, the Old Settlers Day Association provided the Whitley County Historical Society with a grant to provide educational programming for local youths -- and this year the organization used the funds to present a highly successful, three-day Civil War camp for local children in June. Click here to see photos of the camp funded by the Old Settlers Day Association grant.
Above, several Old Settlers Day Association and Whitley County Historical Society board members, staff and camp participants (wearing Civil War-era kepi hats) met to personally thank the OSDA for their gift. Above, from left, is Jim Brock, Dennis Warnick, Mahri Romano, James Romano, Gabe Tippmann, Mike Redman, Chuck Matthieu, Dani Tippmann, Angela Maley, Bev Henley and Chuck Jones.
Arts United and the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) will present a workshop for artists seeking to apply for funds through the Indiana Arts Commission.
The workshop will be held at the Allen County Public Library on Tuesday, December 15, 2009 from 5:30-7:00 p.m. Registration is required. Hoosier artists in selected disciplines have until February 1, 2010, to submit applications for the IAC’s Individual Artist Program (IAP) grant.
Artists are encouraged to thoroughly read the program guidelines on the IAC website, and note there are significant changes in artistic disciplines that will be accepted for application during the next grant period. Information on this program can be found at: www.IN.gov/arts
Eligible projects will only be considered in the areas of: crafts, design art, media arts, photography, visual arts, and folk arts related to the traditional disciplines listed here. The new, federally-funded Artist Access Program that encourages participation by artists with disabilities will also be included within the IAP guidelines and application process.
Individual artists living and working in Indiana may apply for up to $2,000 from the IAP grant, which requires no matching funds. The grants are intended to assist artists with specific project-related costs that will help them further their career and provide significant public benefit through the completed project.
Applicants must be 18 years of age, must be an Indiana resident for at least one year prior to the date of the application, and plan to remain in the state for the full grant period. Artists may not be enrolled in a degree-granting program. All projects must be completed between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011.
A detailed explanation of the IAP program, and grant guidelines are available on the IAC website. Artists should be aware that the application for IAP grants must be submitted online utilizing the IAC’s online grants system.
Qualified citizen review panels, selected by the IAC, will evaluate applications during discipline-specific panel meetings convened by the IAC. The panels examine each application based upon criteria which 2
includes the quality of the artist’s work, the impact the project will have on the artist’s career development, public benefit from the project, and feasibility of the project completion in the specified period of time.
More than 200 artists applied for Individual Artists Program grants last year and 33 projects received IAC funding.
Artists may register by contacting Jan Shupert-Arick, Director of Regional Services at 260-471-5670 or email JShupert-Arick@artsunited.org
Arts United and the Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) will present a workshop for artists seeking to apply for funds through the Indiana Arts Commission.
The workshop will be held at the Allen County Public Library on Tuesday, December 15, 2009 from 5:30-7:00 p.m. Registration is required. Hoosier artists in selected disciplines have until February 1, 2010, to submit applications for the IAC’s Individual Artist Program (IAP) grant.
Artists are encouraged to thoroughly read the program guidelines on the IAC website, and note there are significant changes in artistic disciplines that will be accepted for application during the next grant period. Information on this program can be found at: www.IN.gov/arts
Eligible projects will only be considered in the areas of: crafts, design art, media arts, photography, visual arts, and folk arts related to the traditional disciplines listed here. The new, federally-funded Artist Access Program that encourages participation by artists with disabilities will also be included within the IAP guidelines and application process.
Individual artists living and working in Indiana may apply for up to $2,000 from the IAP grant, which requires no matching funds. The grants are intended to assist artists with specific project-related costs that will help them further their career and provide significant public benefit through the completed project.
Applicants must be 18 years of age, must be an Indiana resident for at least one year prior to the date of the application, and plan to remain in the state for the full grant period. Artists may not be enrolled in a degree-granting program. All projects must be completed between July 1, 2010 and June 30, 2011.
A detailed explanation of the IAP program, and grant guidelines are available on the IAC website. Artists should be aware that the application for IAP grants must be submitted online utilizing the IAC’s online grants system.
Qualified citizen review panels, selected by the IAC, will evaluate applications during discipline-specific panel meetings convened by the IAC. The panels examine each application based upon criteria which 2
includes the quality of the artist’s work, the impact the project will have on the artist’s career development, public benefit from the project, and feasibility of the project completion in the specified period of time.
More than 200 artists applied for Individual Artists Program grants last year and 33 projects received IAC funding.
Artists may register by contacting Jan Shupert-Arick, Director of Regional Services at 260-471-5670 or email JShupert-Arick@artsunited.org
(Talk of the Town photo provided) 
Chef Jacob Kemery, below, will lead an informative, idea-filled class on what to do with all of your holiday leftovers.
Article provided
Wondering what you should do with your leftover turkey and other holiday meal items?
Parkview Whitley Hospital will present a free program for the public titled “Healthy Holiday Leftover Recipes,” on Thursday, December 3 at 6:30 p.m., at the hospital in lower-level auditoriums A and B. The hospital is located at 353 N. Oak Street in Columbia City.
Join chef Jacob Kemery of Parkview Whitley Hospital’s Food Services Department as he shares tips for preparing tasty and healthy snacks, appetizers and sandwiches from holiday leftovers. Chef Kemery also will share his favorite recipes and offer food-preparation tips.
Food samples and recipes will be provided, as well as iced tea, coffee and bottled water.
Seating is limited and reservations are required.
To make a reservation, call Rick Beemer at 248-9400 or (800) 325-1338, ext. 89400.
(Talk of the Town photo provided) Chef Jacob Kemery, below, will lead an informative, idea-filled class on what to do with all of your holiday leftovers.
Article provided
Wondering what you should do with your leftover turkey and other holiday meal items?
Parkview Whitley Hospital will present a free program for the public titled “Healthy Holiday Leftover Recipes,” on Thursday, December 3 at 6:30 p.m., at the hospital in lower-level auditoriums A and B. The hospital is located at 353 N. Oak Street in Columbia City.
Join chef Jacob Kemery of Parkview Whitley Hospital’s Food Services Department as he shares tips for preparing tasty and healthy snacks, appetizers and sandwiches from holiday leftovers. Chef Kemery also will share his favorite recipes and offer food-preparation tips.
Food samples and recipes will be provided, as well as iced tea, coffee and bottled water.
Seating is limited and reservations are required.
To make a reservation, call Rick Beemer at 248-9400 or (800) 325-1338, ext. 89400.
(Talk of the Town photo by Jennifer Zartman Romano) If you haven't yet made your donation to the Whitley County Community Foundation and would still like to participate in "Caroling for a Cause," you can still send a giant choir of carolers from Orizon Real Estate, Whitko High School, Whitko Middle School, Columbia City High School and Indian Springs Middle School to the destination of your choice in Whitley County and brighten someone's evening. For more information, click here or contact Tina Houser via e-mail at tinahouser@orizonrealestate.com
Orizon Real Estate agents are eager to start their first evening of Caroling for a Cause tonight, raising funds for various non-profit organizations through the Whitley County Community Foundation. Above, from left, in row one is Al Anderson, Tina Houser and Darlene Nelson. Row two, from left, is Greg Fahl, Brooks Langeloh, Kevin Ewing, Ryan Cook, Kathy Heuer, Bob Grawcock, Judy Bell, Ann Fahl, Tim Brower and John Bellam.
