Friday, July 3d, 2009

A Papa Johns manager was taken into custody Thursday afternoon on sexual battery charges. The investigation began when a young female reported to police that she had been touched inappropriately by her previous employer at Papa Johns Pizza in Jasper. The employee stated that after two incidents occurred she quit her job. The female then became aware that other female employees and past employees had been coming forward to police in the last week making allegations regarding inappropriate touching and other conduct where the manager was accused of being the perpetrator. 38 year old Ace Newman of Jasper was lodged in the Dubois County Security Center where he is being held on $10,000 cash bond. The investigation is continuing by Jasper City Police with the assistance of Dubois County Sheriff's Deputies. There is a strong likelihood of additional charges being filed soon against Newman

Thursday, July 2nd, 2009

A 26 year old man from English was arrested after he was pulled over last night bny ISP for a traffic violation. State Police pulled over a 1992 Chevy Camaro on East bound I-64 in Crawford County. The Camaro was being driven by 26 year old Robert Dayton Junior of St Rd 62 English. A 17 year old juvenile was also in the car at the time. An investigation revealed that Dauyton had never had a drivers license and was driving the car with a false or fictitious plate and did not have insurance. A criminal check turned up 2 warrants for Dayton out of Floyd County. A Class B felony warrant for burglary and a Class A misdemeanor warrant for driving while never licensed. Police found Morphine, Alprazolam and Hydrocodone pills. Dayton was arrested and taken to the Crawford County Jail. Nor information was released on the juvenile passenger.

Two people were injured in a two vehicle crash that occurred around 4:30PM Wednesday afternoon at the intersection of State Road 37 and and State Road 60 East in Mitchell. According to Mitchell City Police, 52 year old Joyce Underhill of Paoli, was driving a 2007 Ford Wyndstar van north on 4 lane 37. The Ford wyndstar hit the drivers side door of a 2000 Toyota Sienna van driven by 80 year old Virginia Samplawski also of Paoli. Police report that Samplowski was driving the Toyota Sienna West and was attempting to turn left onto Southbound 37, when the crash happened. Following the crash, Underhill complained of chest pain and Samplowski complained of back pain. Total property damage was estimated over Five thousand dollars.

An Orleans woman was arrested following a one vehicle crash that occurred around 3:21AM Wednesday morning along County Road 700 North (Vincennes Road) near County Road 100 West, west of orleans. According to the OCSD, 30 year old Ashley Springer of Orleans, was driving a 1998 Oldsmobile Silhouette west on Vincennes road. Springer told police a deer ran out in front of her vehicle. she swerved to avoid hitting the deer and the Oldsmobile Silhouette ran off the south side of the roadway and hit a utility pole. The vehicle then travelled back across the road then back off the the south side of the roadway coming to a stop. Following the crash, Springer was transported to BHOC in Paoli with abrasions and possible shoulder or upper arm injurys. She was released into the custody of police. Springer was booked into the Orange County Jail, charged with Class A misdemeanor operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license with a prior conviction, and a Class D felony operating while intoxicated with a prior. Total property damage was estimated at over five thousand dollars.

Wednesday, July 1st, 2009

Tuesday, June 30th, 2009

Jasper City Police were called to a three vehicle accident on 13th and Mill Monday afternoon around 2pm. 22 year old Damion Pryor of French Lick was northbound on Mill Street when a malfunction with the steering caused the vehicle to sway to the right striking parked vehicles owned by Roger Crowder and Bart Steltenpohl. No injuries were reported from the 1:56PM accident. $5,000 total damage was done. No citations were given. 

Lines at the Indiana bureau of Motor vehicles could go from long to nonexistent if state lawmakers fail to pass a state budget by the midnight deadline. The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles confirms all license branches would cease operations, making it impossible for Hoosier drivers to renew registrations and complete other transactions.  Also, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources says it's prepared for a state government shutdown if lawmakers fail to pass a budget by the looming deadline. The sudden halt would effectively end operations at state parks throughout the state. DNR Spokesman Phil Bloom says that means registered campers could be out of luck. But they would be able to request a refund by contacting their camping call center.

The Midwest climate weather is changing,” according to Don Wuebbles, co-author of the report and a climate scientist at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, in the news release. “Over the past 50 years, we see higher average temperatures, more frequent downpours, longer growing seasons and fewer cold snaps.”  Not all the changes predicted in the report appear catastrophic on the surface. Longer growing seasons and more carbon dioxide in the atmosphere could increase crop yields; the summer recreation season would be extended; milder winters would mean less energy required to heat homes. However, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists, each positive would be offset by a negative: Longer, hotter summers could breed more crop-destroying ozone; more days of extreme heat (above 97 degrees Fahrenheit) would curtail outdoor activity; longer summers would mean more energy needed for air conditioning. “ Winter temperatures by the end of the century were projected to increase by 5 to 7 degrees Fahrenheit; summer temperatures are expected to rise eight to 10 degrees.  Average annual precipitation may not change much, but rainfall likely will be more seasonal — 5 to 10 percent more precipitation during winter and 10 to 15 percent less during summer.  

 Monday, June 29th, 2009

The French Lick Volunteer Fire department responded to a house fire early this morning around 2am.  Fire fighters responded to the house at 718 South Adams St. in French Lick.  The home was fully engulfed when fire fighters arrived.  They were out about an hour and a half. 

The Indiana State Police at the Bloomington post would like to offer residential safety tips concerning driveways.  With summer upon us, our most valuable resource, our children, will be outside enjoying the weather, playing in the yard and in our driveways.  Tragically over 2400 driveway accidents happen each year in the United States.  When backing or moving in your driveway or yard, make sure no one is behind your vehicle. 

If your business or organization would be interested in setting up at this year's Orange County Fair, please call or stop by the Orange County Extension Office for more information.  Call 723-7101.  The 4H fair will run from July 25th thru August 1st.  Q-100 will be broadcasting nightly from our booth at the fair.  Stop by and register for prizes. 

Friday, June 26th, 2009

Indiana ia participating in "Operation Dry Water" a nation weekend of boating under the influence detection and enforcement aimed at reducing BUI Friday thru Sunday.  Curbing the number of alcohol-related accidents and fatalities is a key to achieving safer and more enjoyable recreational boating.  Coast Buard statistics indicate that 21 percent of all boating fatalities were the result of alcohol use. 

Fireworks in the sky this Saturday night at Williams Dam.  Sponsored by the Amstkutz family of White. River.  Enoy the beautiful displays over the river at dark this Saturday evening.  Q-100 will have a complete listing this coming week of area fireworks displays in different locations. 

Thursday, June 25th, 2009

Wednesday, June 24th, 2009

Firefighters from at least 8 area fire departments responded to a fire Tuesday around 10:30am at the Paoli VFW. Police believe there were people at the VFW at the time the fire started. One fire fighter suffered heat exhaustion and was treated at the Bloomington Hospital of Orange County in Paoli. The state fire marshall’s office ATF were contacted to help determine the cause of the fire. The building, located at 714 West Main, was engulfed in flames when firemen arrived. The Paoli Fire Dept were assisted by the West Baden, Southeast, Orange Co. Rural District 2, Orleans, and Lawrence County’s Marion Township Volunteer Fire Depts.

While on patrol Tuesday, State Trooper Robert Lambert observed a blue moped driven by 32 year old James William McKeighen of  Paoli  fail to yield to through traffic at the intersection of North Gospel and Thornton St in Paoli. Trooper Lambert reported McKeighen pulled out in front of a full size Ford 150 pickup nearly causing a traffic accident. Trooper Lambert attempted to conduct a traffic stop on McKeighen, however he fled for several blocks driving through numerous yards. Trooper Lambert, Trooper Shane Staggs and Sgt Brian Shipman of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department set up a perimeter and located McKeighen several blocks away walking. Trooper Lambert reported that Mckeighen had went home only about 2 blocks from where he fled from and changed his clothes and attempted to walk to a friend’s house. Mckeighen was transported to the Orange County Jail where he is being held on a $2005. bond for Felony Resisting Law Enforcement, Reckless Driving and Public Intoxication.

A smoking ice cream machine caused Ferdinand Firefighters to respond to the Ferdy Flyer Restaurant Tuesday afternoon. The machine was pulled from the building. According to Fire Chief Dan Lindauer, the cause of the fire was an electrical malfunction on the machine. Lindauer says there were four trucks and 16 men on the scene for about 30 minutes. Ferdinand firefighters were then called out at 10:13PM to the Comfort Inn due to a smoke alarm being activated. Firefighters removed the alarm, cleaned it, and reset it. No injuries to report. There were four trucks and 15 men on the scene for about 25 minutes

Tuesday, June 23d, 2009

The Indiana State Police had the following enforcement activity for May 2009. The Jasper State Police Post covers Crawford, Daviess, Dubois, Martin, Orange, Perry, and Spencer Counties. · Traffic Arrests (tickets),  1472Warnings 2210, · Commercial Motor Vehicle moving arrests 18, · DUI Arrests 40, · Total Criminal Arrests 193The Indiana State Police would like for all Hoosiers to have a safe Fourth of July holiday. Due to many Hoosiers celebrating our nation’s independence, with the use of fireworks, the Indiana State Police would like to inform citizens of the Indiana fireworks law which is in place for the safety of everyone.· Only individuals over the age of 18 can purchase fireworks. A person 18 years of age or older has to be present when anyone younger than 18 is using or possessing fireworks. · Fireworks can only be used on the user’s property, the property of someone who granted permission for fireworks to be discharged, or a place designated by the Indiana State Fire Marshal for the discharge of consumer fireworks. · Fireworks can only be discharged between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. any day except on Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, and New Years Eve when the times are 9:00 a.m. to midnight. It is important to check with local officials, as local ordinances may restrict the use of fireworks. A person who violates this law can be charged with a class C infraction

Monday, June 22d, 2009

The Paoli Volunteer Fire Dept. along with Southeast and Orange co. Rural District Two Fire Depts. responded to a house fire around 9:08am Sunday.  The fire was at 925 Southeast Main in Paoli.  No one was at home at the time of the fire and the owners name was not available.  Nobody was injured and the house was a total loss. 

The Orange County Solid Waste will be closing dump sites on Wednesday's beginning July 1st.  The sites will now be open on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday from 9am to 5pm and Sunday from 12pm until 5pm. 

An Indiana based Travel Agency has disappointed the youth at D.C. Episcopalian Church in Washington DC  The kids at Christ Church Georgetown were supposed to leave soon for a trip in Germany, arranged by British European Specialty Tours of Carmel. However , before the group was supposed to leave they received a letter from Best Tours indicating the company was out of business and the group would not receive a refund of their 40-thousand dollar investment. Parishioner Rob Volmer says the youth spent 2 years fundraising for the trip and are shocked by the actions of the company. Volmer says Best's President, Michael Sylvester and the law firm representing his company have refused to return phone calls. The firm, Thrasher Buschmann Griffith & Voelkel, P.C. in Indianapolis says they have no comment on best tours or the situation. The phone number for Best Tours has been disconnected and their website is off-line

Friday, June 19th, 2009

A Bloomington man drowned in an old limestone quarry last night in Lawrence County. According to the DNR, the Lawrence County Sheriffs Department received a call at 7:27PM reporting that 22 year old Collin Cassell was swimming swimming with friends when he dived into the quarry and did not resurface. The Lawrence County Sheriffs Department, BRMC Ambulance Service, 3 conservation DNR officers, the Lawrence County Coroner and firefighters from the Oolitic and Indian Creek VFD's all responded. The old stone quarry is located west of Oolitic near Patton Hill. Divers located Cassells body around the public that swimming is prohibited in the old quarries scattered throughout the area.

State Police have arrested a Franklin man accused of bribing the Hancock County auditor. 42 year old James Barger is charged with bribery and theft. Barger is accused of being paid 238 thousand dollars for unapproved repairs at the Hancock County Courthouse. Barger is a cousin to Hancock county auditor Linda Grass who was arrested Wednesday. 

Police say vandals toppled headstones at the Columbus City Cemetery, causing several thousand dollars worth of damage. About 26 headstones, some dating back more than 100 years, were knocked over Sunday evening at the cemetery located south of Donner Park. No arrests have been made in connection with the vandalism.

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Severe storms moved therough the Q-100 listening area this morning. The storms hit Orange County around 9:40AM and lasted about 40 minutes. Numerous power outages and downed trees reported. Also 3/4 of inch of rain fell during the
storm

Orleans Police along with the Orange County Sheriffs department responded to a Motorcycle and Car crash that occurred around 2:46PM yesterday afternoon on State Road 37 at the south edge of orleans. 70 year old Jerry wilkerson of Columbus was riding a 1982 Yamaha motorcycle north on 37. The motorcycle was hit by a 200 Chevy car driven by 49 year old Dianna Daggy of Mitchell. Police report the Chevy was southbound and was attempting to turn left on to Martin Street, when the crash occurred. The impact threw Wilkerson from the bike and he landed on the pavement. Police report he was wearing a helmet. Following the crash Wilkerson was taken by Orange County EMS to the Orleans Airport where he was picked up Air Evac helicopter and flown to U of L Hospital. Daggy was reportedly not injured, she was cited for operating left of center.

A strong thunderstorm made its way through northern Greene County this morning and left a path of damage behind it. The track of the storm made a beeline for the Indiana Southern Railroad track that runs through Worthington. The winds were so strong they blew twelve empty railraod cars off of a sidetrack. No injuries or evacuations were reported.


Wednesday, June 17th

Washington County Memorial Hospital in Salem has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection but says its will remain open while it seeks an agreement with a company to run the hospital. A bankruptcy court filing ensures continued service and no disruption of patient care. Critical Access Health Services Corporation the hospital's operator, said in a statement that it will negotiate for Indianapolis-based St. Vincent Health or another company to operate the hospital. Critical Access said in the bankruptcy petition that the hospital had assets between $1 million and $10 million and debts between $10 million and $50 million. St. Vincent also is in negotiations to run Dunn Memorial Hospital of Bedford as well.

Last night, while working a Manufacturing of Methamphetamine case, Officer Chad Liersch of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office contacted Trp. Joshua Allen with the Indiana State Police with information regarding a residence in Ellettsville.  Deputy Liersch and Trooper Allen were able to confirm probable cause information and obtain a search warrant for the Dustin Baughman residence at 705 Hanover Glen in Ellettsville.  Deputy Liersch, Sergeant Troy Thomas (MCSO) along with Troopers Allen, Zack Robbins, Ryan Miller and Jon Patrick served the search warrant.  Inside the residence, officers found items consistent with the manufacture of methamphetamine.  Arrested was 27 year old Dustin Baughman and 24 year old Cathy Baughman. Also two children, ages 2 and 7 were removed from the residence by Child Protective services.

Governor Mitch Daniels today announced the appointment of Department of Insurance (DOI) Commissioner Jim Atterholt to the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) to fill the vacancy left by the resignation of Greg Server. Bedford native and current DOI Chief Deputy Commissioner Carol Cutter will succeed Atterholt at the department. Cutter has served as DOI deputy commissioner of health issues since 2005. She has led efforts to eliminate an 18-month backlog of rate and form filings for health, life, and property/casualty products in her first two years on the job. Cutter also helped establish a self-certification process for life and annuity rate and form filings to allow for a faster turnaround for approval of those insurance products for marketing. Prior to serving in state government, Cutter worked in various capacities in the insurance industry for nearly 30 years.

Tuesday, June 16th, 2009

A lawsuit against Harrison County Sheriff Mike Deatrick has been settled. Two former female employees of the Sheriff’s Department claimed Deatrick had sexually harassed them and then retaliated against them after they filed a complaint. A consent decree was filed Monday in US District Court in New Albany proposing to settle the case and another suit filed by the US Justice Department in March.

Bedford native Clayton Anderson and his band left the French Lick resort Casino $10,000 richer Saturday night. The Clayton Anderson Band had defeated Seymour’s band “Tator” in the $10,000 Battle of the Country Bands in what Dyan Duncan, public relations at the resort/casino, called a close, competitive final. The contest were held in the Windsor Ballroom. The two bands had advanced from Friday night semi-finals to the final round by receiving the loudest applause. Kudges determined the winner Saturday night. "Tator" frequently plays live shows in Bedford

Spring Mill State Park invites visitors to an Archaeologhy Weekend this Saturday and Sunday. Visitors can assist with real archaeological research and excavation in the Pioneer Village, guided by professional archaeologists. “Spring Mill Village was a prosperous town in the 1800s, and this event gives us a chance to share that history,” noted Jill Vance, the park’s interpretive naturalist. Hikes to historic sites in the park and pioneer-era crafts are also a part of the weekend. A special evening stroll through the Pioneer Village on Saturday will use photographs to show how much has changed in the last 100 years. The archaeology research and programming begins at 11 a.m. on both days. The program schedule is available at: www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/12066.htm Park admission during the event is $5 per vehicle for in-state residents and $7 per vehicle for out-of-state residents

Monday, June 15th, 2009

Jasper Police are investigating the theft of several items from the Ruxer Field in Jasper. The thefts occurred sometime Friday night or Saturday morning and were reported to police Saturday afternoon. The list of items taken include, two heavy duty 100 foot black extension cords, one 80 foot extension cord, two 20 inch fans and an orange and white Gatorade cooler. Anyone who might have seen something should contact the Jasper City Plice at 482-2255.

Two Bedford men arrested Sunday afternoon on drug-related charges, after police got a tip that a driver of a vehicle was continuously making laps in the Lowe’s parking lot, with a child in the back seat who wasn’t wearing a seat belt. According to police, officers went to the Lowe’s parking lot and observed a 1995 Ford Taurus driven by 42 year old Jerry Lemmons of Bedford, making laps with a child that was in the back seat without a seat belt. Once the car was stopped, and a search of the vehicle was made, a powdery, white substance was found that tested positive to be methamphetamine. Lemmons was then taken to a area hospital for a voluntary blood draw for chemical evaluation and was charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated, reckless possession of paraphernalia, neglect of a dependent, taking a child to a nuisance, child endangerment and a child restraint violation. Also another passenger in the car, 36 year old Kevin Elsmore of Bedford, was charged with public intoxication, false informing and possession of a schedule IV controlled substance.

Investigators believe a downpour Sunday on US 50 in Jennings County may have been a factor in a fatal accident. 50 year old William Gray of Indianapolis was kiiled after his truck left the roadway, rolled and struck a tree. One of two dogs traveling with gray also died in the crash.

Friday, June 12th, 2009

The Marion and Shawswick Volunteer Fire Dept responded to a fire around 2:47am this morning at the former Hickory Hill and Old Windmill Restaurant building located on Hwy 37 south of Bedford.  A passerby reported flames coming from the vacant building.  The fire was contained in the kitchen area, but damage was described as extensive.  Firefighters were on the scene until 8:30 this morning.  The state fire marshalls office was called on to help determine the cause of the fire.  No injuries were reported. 

Around 12:20 p.m. Yesterday, Troopers from the Jasper Post, an Indiana Conservation Officer and the Milltown Town Marshal located an indoor marijuana grow operation at 7248 E SR 64, Marengo. Preliminary investigation revealed that the Marijuana Eradication Coordinator for the Jasper Post, Trooper Charles Pirtle, and Indiana Conservation Officer Dennis Talley had both received information that Walter C. Shipman, 59, Marengo was growing marijuana at his residence. Upon arriving at the residence officers located over 50 marijuana plants growing inside. Shipman was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Crawford County Jail charged with dealing and possession of marijuana and maintaining a common nuisance.. The Indiana State Police Marijuana Eradication Section needs your help to combat the marijuana problem in Indiana. Trooper Pirtle encourages anyone with drug information to call the Indiana Marijuana Tip line at 888-873-1694. Please remember if you wish to stay anonymous you can

Helicopter Association International (HAI) recently notified Air Evac Lifeteam that the company, which operates a base in Paoli, has received the HAI Operator Safety Award for the year 2008. The HAI Operator Safety Award annually recognizes the safe operation of helicopters by its regular members. Paoli Air Evac Lifeteam base is located at 690 W. Hospital Road and has been in service since 2006. Air Evac Lifeteam is a membership-supported air ambulance company that provides emergency care and rapid medical transport to rural communities throughout the central U.S.  

Thursday, June 11, 2009

A new state law will ban new teen drivers from carrying passengers for six months. Bans on cell phones and text-messaging and an increase in the minimum driving age got most of the attention by lawmakers. A new state law bans drivers from carrying passengers for the first six months after they get their license. There are exceptions for family members, on the ban from teens carrying passengers, or if someone over 25 is in the car. Bloomington Representative Peggy Welch says the goal is the same as for the cell phone ban: to give the least experienced drivers as few distractions as possible. Welch says the law gives not only police but parents an additional tool to keep teenagers safe.

There may not be much “hangin round” in Bedford. According to the Times Mail, Bedford Police Chief Dennis Parsley and city attorney Greg Pittman introduced an ordinance during Tuesday night’s city council meeting that would permit law enforcement officers to impose a $25 fine on anyone loitering on public or private property. The council unanimously approved the ordinance on the first two passages and suspended the rules to vote for a third and final passage, which requires a unanimous vote. Councilman Mark Scherschel voted no on the third passage, which puts the ordinance on hold until the July council meeting saying he wanted more feedback.  Chief.Parsley said “We act as agents for property owners,” “They send us a letter asking us to keep people off their property. That gives us the authority to tell the kids to move. Right now, they just shift from one property to the next. It’s a never-ending circle. Right now, our only recourse is to charge them with trespass. You hate to charge a kid for sitting on a parking lot talking to his friends. This ordinance provides that power. We can write them a $25 citation, and we figure that’s not as bad as a misdemeanor but still gets the message across that they are not wanted on the property.”

Motorist traveling along State Road 37 between Paoli and Orleans were delayed this morning as police and rescue workers cleared the highway of a semi-truck wreck.  According to the Orange County Sheriff's Department, around 7am this morning, a truck driven by 29 year old Joseph Featherston of Indianapolis and owned by P&P Transportation of Indianapolis ran off the roadway and overturned north of Reynolds Incorporated.  Police believe the driver fell asleep at the wheel of the truck which was transporting pizza supplys.  Traffic was restricted to one lane in the area until around 9:40am. 

Wednesday, June 10th, 2009

Timothy M. Morrison, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, announced that JODY H. RUTHERFORD, 34, Orleans, IN, was indicted by a federal grand jury sitting in Indianapolis in a two-count Indictment for Theft of Government Funds & Failing to Disclose, following an investigation by the Social Security Administration.  The indictment alleges that between December 2005 until September 2008, the defendantreceived approximately $30,513 in Social Security Administration Survivor’s Benefits to which she was not entitled. Specifically, the defendant concealed her November 2005 remarriage from the Social Security Administration. This event would have affected her rights to continue receiving survivor’s benefits. According to Assistant U. S. Attorney Doris L. Pryor, who is prosecuting the case for the government, RUTHERFORD faces a maximum possible prison sentence of 10 years for count 1 and 5 years imprisonment for count 2. The maximum possible fine for both counts is $250,000. Following a hearing held on June 8, 2009 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge, RUTHERFORD was ordered released on her own personal recognizance pending disposition of this case. The indictment is an allegation only, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at trial or by guilty plea.

An Indiana State Police methamphetamine suppression team led by Paoli’s Paul Andry was among recipients of the 2009 Public Service Achievement Awards presented by Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels. According to the Times Mail, Andry is south zone supervisor of the ISP Methamphetamine Suppression Unit. He has spent more than 20 years in narcotic investigations. “Basically, we’re in charge of working meth labs in the southern half of the state,” Andry said. The award specifically recognized Andry and fellow ISP team members David Qualkenbush of Shoals and Jackie Smith and Katrina Smith of New Salisbury for methamphetamine investigations in Perry County.

Tuesday, June 9th, 2009

This reminder of a meeting at 7pm tonight at the American Legion in French Lick for Citizens concerned with the two mile buffer zone in French Lick. Interesed citizens are invited to attend. 

Stop in at the Orange county Homegrown Valley Farmers Market today for your midweek shopping. Open from 2 to 5pm at the French Lick Railway Museum off Hwy 56. You’ll find broccoli, eggs, onions, rhubarb, vegetable plant starts, flowers and plants. Also cookies, jams and jellies muffins, pies, yeast breads, jewelry, leather goods, purses, wreaths, wooden puzzles, etc.

An Evansville woman is facing criminal charges after authorities found her two children living in a home strewn with trash and animal waste. 26 year old Heather Wade has been charged with child neglect. The children were found in the roach infested home sleeping on the floor with a knife within reach. The children are now in custody of the grandmother.

Monday, June 8th, 2009

A bad day for Silverados Sunday. Jasper City Police were called to Uebelhor and Sons Chevy Sunday afternoon after a pickup truck runs into three parked vehicles. 62 year old Dennis Bowman of Huntingburg was north on Wernsing Road when he veered off the road and hit a parked 2009 Chevy Silverado in the Uebelhor and Sons dealership parking lot. That pickup truck was pushed into another 2009 Chevy Silverado, which was pushed into another 2009 Silverado. Bowman was taken to Memorial Hospital after receiving a cut to the wrist after the 3:45PM accident. Officers say the use of the seatbelt prevented more severe injuries. An unknown medical condition by Bowman may have contributed to the accident. $93,550 total damage was done. No citations were handed out.

A deer running into the path or a motorcycle resulted in injuries Sunday afternoon. 56 year old Ralph L. Karnes, of Mitchell, and his passenger, 44 year old Rohanda L. Karnes, also of Mitchell, were traveling on Indiana 60, near Sportsman’s Club road when the deer darted in front of the cycle. Both were taken to a Bedford Hospital for treatment. Ralph Karnes suffered abrasions to his upper arm and shoulder and Rohanda Karnes suffered pain to her entire body. The crash occurred around 2:14pm.

Friday, June 5th, 2009

Just after 9am Thursday morning, . Indiana State Police were called to the David Turnham Educational Center in Dale in reference to a Burglary. Preliminary investigation revealed that sometime during the night someone had forced their way into the school and stole several laptop computers. Around 11am,  Dale Town Marshal Scott Lanman received a call of a male inside of an abandoned house at 214 Medcalf Street. When Marshal Lanman arrived,  he recognized the male as 20 year old Brett D. Huffman, Evanston. As Marshal Lanman approached the residence Huffman fled on foot. After eluding Marshal Lanman, Huffman was seen heading back to the residence on Medcalf. Another foot pursuit ensued and Marshal Lanman caught up to Huffman behind the Dale American Legion. After a struggle with Marshal Lanman, Huffman was able to free himself and steal a White Dodge pick-up. Huffman drove the truck to the Dale City Park and upon arriving at the park stole a Gray Cadillac. Gentryville Reserve Deputy Marshal, Robert Bone initiated a short vehicle pursuit. The pursuit ended when Huffman drove the Cadillac into a ditch near the Dale Parish Center and fled on foot. A short time later the Spencer County Dispatch received a call from a homeowner at 101 E. Cherry Street, Dale. The homeowner believed that someone was under the house in the crawl space. When officers arrived they were able to take Huffman into custody. Upon searching the residence at 214 Medcalf Street the stolen laptop computers from the school were located. Huffman was taken to the Spencer County Jail and is charged with Burglary, Theft, Criminal Mischief, Criminal Trespass, Auto Theft (2 counts), Resisting Law Enforcement with a vehicle and on foot, Residential Entry, Possession of Stolen Property and Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer

On April 28, of last year, members of the Indiana State Police and the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office discovered human remains near Milltown, in Crawford County. A team of forensic anthropologists from Indianapolis came to Crawford County to assist investigators with the discovery. Yesterday investigators received DNA test results from the Indiana State Police Laboratory and with a reasonable degree of scientific accuracy; the DNA test has helped investigators identify the remains as Russell Lee Darling, of Milltown. Darling went missing in October 2002 and had not been seen since. Darling was 44 years old at the time of his disappearance. Trooper Detective Bill Wibbels said, “This is an ongoing investigation. Mr. Darling’s disappearance and death is suspicious, and I would ask anyone that has any information about this case to call the Indiana State Police at 812-482-1441 or 800-742-7475.

Thursday, June 4th, 2009

A Bedford man was arrested Tuesday afternoon on a charge of dealing cocaine, a Class A felony, according to Bedford Police. 27 year old Brandon Taylor, formerly of Springville, sold marijuana, Xanax and cocaine to a confidential informant on April 6. When officers went to Taylor’s home to serve the arrest warrant, they saw in plain view, remnants of marijuana smoking,. Taylor was then arrested without incident. Taylor remains in the Lawrence County Jail without bond on charges of dealing cocaine, a Class A felony, and misdemeanor charges of possession of marijuana less than 30 grams and possession of paraphernalia.

GM Despite filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection will continue its PCB cleanup work in Bedford. In addition to the filing, the automaker announced Monday that the Bedford GM Powertrain plant is not on the list of facilities to be closed. And Tuesday the company said the PCB work will go on as well. A GM spokeswoman also confirmed that the basic cleanup could be finished as early as next year. The factory has been part of the Bedford work scene for a century.

Rural and Volunteer fire departments from 48 counties across Indiana have been awarded more than $268,000 in Volunteer Fire Assistance grants, according to DNR Director Robert E Carter Jr.  The grants were administered by the DNR Division of Forestry and made available through the US Forest Service. Several departments in our local area, received grants, including the Orange County Rural Volunteer Fire Department and Orleans Volunteer Fire Department. Also receiving grants were, the Marion Township and Perry Township VFD’s in Lawrence County and Celestine, Haysville, Schnellville and St Anthony VFD’s in Dubois County.

Wednesday, June 3rd, 2009

A manufactuer of aluminum components in Jeffersonville plans to lay off 60 employees in late July.  Altec has 168 employees.  Company officials declined to give reasons for the lay-offs.

The state attorney General's Office has seized 240 dogs from a breeding operation in Mauckport.  The dogs on "Breezy Valley Dairy Farm" in Harrison County were removed as part of a tax "jeopardy assessment" filed against farm owner, 63 year old Virginia Garwood and her 26 year old daughter Kristen Garwood.  The women have paid no sales tax to the state of Indiana from the operation. 

The body of a Greene County woman missing for a week has been found. 93 year old Esther Risher was found in flood waters Tuesday morning in Knox County. . According to reports , it is believed that Risher had been dead for at least four days. The elderly woman was found along the West Fork of the White River near Wheatland. Due to local flooding of the White River, Risher's vehicle was not noticed until water receded and a local resident went back into the area and found the disabled vehicle. It is believed that Risher drover her car down a private river lane towards some cabins until her vehicle became disabled in the mud. Her body was found approximately 100 feet from her car. An autopsy will be performed

Tuesday, June 2nd, 2009

Bedford City Police arrested two juveniles after they received a call around 4:45am this morning reporting possible mischief in the parking lot of the "Bliss House" assisted care facility on Shawnee Drive in Bedford.  Police found a gate had been broken at a residence.  16 and 12 year old males were found behind trees in the yard.  They had a bag of tools and pipe fittings police determined had been taken from the maintenence Department of Ted Jones Apartments.  The two boys were booked with the Jackson Co. Juvenile charges of theft, curfew violation, resisting arrest, criminal mischief and criminal trespass. 

Food pantries across the state have been seeing an increase in middle class clients and decrease in donations.  Second Harvest Good Bank reports good pantries in the area have served 30 to 40% more people this year 

Two years after soaring tax bills sparked a revolt amont property owners, most of the state's assessments are still behind schedule.  Only Owen and Kosciusko Counties sent tax bills in time to impose the normal May 10th deadline for payments.  37 more counties are a month or two behind.  Everyone else is further  behind than that, including Marion and Brown Counties which are still working on last years. 

Monday, June 1, 2009

GM’s Bedford Plant will remain open. GM Powertrain workers will report for their shifts like normal. In all, 436 people work at the Bedford facility, including 322 United Auto Workers members. The plant's primary products are transmission casings and housings, although it also produces pistons and large engine blocks. As previously announced, the Bedford plant and other GM factories across the country will have a longer-than-normal shutdown this summer, as the company tries to lower its inventory. Powertrain plants in Livonia, Flint and Ypsilanti Township, Mich. will close next year, along with plants in Parma, Ohio, and Fredericksburg, Va. Stamping plants in Indianapolis and Mansfield, Ohio, will also close.

A horse rider this past weekend was injured in the Hoosier National Forest near Heltonville. According to reports, a horse, with saddle intact, was located without a rider. The injured man who was then located, suffered possible broken ribs and a lung injury. A medical helicopter landed at the Farmers’ Market at U.S. 50 East and Ind. 446. Bedford Regional Medical Center ambulance transported the victim to the landing zone. Volunteers from Pleasant Run fire department also were called to assist at the scene. The incident happened at 4:25 p.m. Saturday near Hunter’s Creek horse camp, according to Lawrence County Sheriff Sam Craig.