Posted on January 8, 2018
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
The Starke County Commissioners will meet tonight after last week’s regular meeting was postponed. The commissioners still plan to hold public discussion tonight on the proposed move of the Dollar General Store to the eastern corner of 200 South and U.S. 35 just south of Knox.
During their December 18th meeting, the commissioners discussed the amended plans for the driveway into the store off of 200 South which presents potential safety concerns, according to Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler. He told the board that it’s a heavily traveled area and he’d like to see a stop light or some safety enhancement at that intersection. The commissioners agreed to gather public comment on the matter during tonight’s regular session meeting.
In addition to that discussion, the three commissioners will reorganize the board and make appointments for 2018. Starke County EMS Clerk Mary Lynn Ritchie and EMS Director Travis Clary will have their monthly report as well as Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler. KIRPC representative Shawn Cain and DLZ representative John Kirk will discuss a grant agreement and a heating system, respectively. Clerk Vicki Cooley is anticipated to request the purchase of a recycle container and paving of the Koontz Lake election site. The commissioners are also expected to consider a six month raise in pay for IT Director Mark Gourley.
The board of finance meeting will convene shortly before the commissioners’ regular meeting at 6 p.m. CT.
The Starke County Commissioners will meet in the meeting room in the Starke County Annex Building No. 1 on 53 E. Mound Street in Knox.
Monday, January 8, 2018
Saturday, January 6, 2018
Save Money on Heating This Winter
Posted on January 6, 2018
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
Cold temperatures drive heating costs. With the cold snap experienced over the past couple of weeks, heating bills will be high.
NIPSCO suggests setting the thermostat two to four degrees below what you’re used to in order to cut down the heat bill. Change air filters often throughout the season as dirty filters block air causing the furnace to work harder.
The sun’s energy will heat a home so open the drapes during the daytime. Seal up leaks around windows and doors. Limit time in the shower as water heaters use the most energy. Don’t block registers or radiators with draperies, curtains, furniture or anything else. Let air flow freely.
Look into rebates on energy efficient heating equipment, discounts on LED light bulbs, home energy assessments, income-qualified home weatherizations, and other programs to assist with cost-saving measures.
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI
Cold temperatures drive heating costs. With the cold snap experienced over the past couple of weeks, heating bills will be high.
NIPSCO suggests setting the thermostat two to four degrees below what you’re used to in order to cut down the heat bill. Change air filters often throughout the season as dirty filters block air causing the furnace to work harder.
The sun’s energy will heat a home so open the drapes during the daytime. Seal up leaks around windows and doors. Limit time in the shower as water heaters use the most energy. Don’t block registers or radiators with draperies, curtains, furniture or anything else. Let air flow freely.
Look into rebates on energy efficient heating equipment, discounts on LED light bulbs, home energy assessments, income-qualified home weatherizations, and other programs to assist with cost-saving measures.
State Fire Marshal Issues Safety Reminders, As Cold Weather Continues
Posted on January 6, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
As cold weather continues, Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson is once again reminding Hoosiers to be careful with alternative heating sources. He notes that house fires occur more often in winter, and much of that is due to alternative heating. If you need to use a space heater, keep it at least three feet away from other objects, especially anything that’s flammable.
Before using a fireplace, make sure it’s been cleaned by a certified professional. Use only dry, seasoned firewood, and don’t close the damper while there are still hot ashes in the fireplace.
Also, avoid kitchen fires by cleaning grease from burners and stovetops and staying in the kitchen while cooking. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
Make sure your home has working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
As cold weather continues, Indiana State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson is once again reminding Hoosiers to be careful with alternative heating sources. He notes that house fires occur more often in winter, and much of that is due to alternative heating. If you need to use a space heater, keep it at least three feet away from other objects, especially anything that’s flammable.
Before using a fireplace, make sure it’s been cleaned by a certified professional. Use only dry, seasoned firewood, and don’t close the damper while there are still hot ashes in the fireplace.
Also, avoid kitchen fires by cleaning grease from burners and stovetops and staying in the kitchen while cooking. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
Make sure your home has working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.
North Judson Police Department K9 Supporter Shirt Fundraiser This Monday
Posted on January 6, 2018
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
North Judson Town Marshal Kelly Fisher announced that the NJ Police Department will be selling t-shirts and hoodies as a part of their K9 fundraiser from 8 a.m. until noon on Monday, January 8th.
The t-shirts cost $10 and the hoodies will be sold for $20. Fisher stated they consciously set the prices in order to allow all community members a chance to obtain the North Judson Police Department K9 Supporter apparel. The police station is located at 206 Keller Avenue.
She said they ordered ample supply, so products will still be available to walk-ins after that specific time and date but they just wanted to set up a time where people could come in and order a shirt on the spot or pick-up their pre-orders. She added they’re considering holding a similar shirt fundraiser at Bailey’s Discount Center in the near future.
During Tuesday’s town council meeting, Fisher alerted members that the department is nearing their goal. They recently received a $1,000 check from MedOne Mobile and the Silhay family provided a $100 donation during the meeting, in memory of their Portuguese Water Dog “Raggs” who passed away last year. Many other local business and community members have also contributed to the police department’s $20,000 goal.
During the meeting, Clerk-Treasurer Andrew Rowe also alerted the council that a specific fund needs to be established for the K9 fundraiser. He mentioned that there is an existing Police Public Donations Special Revenue Fund that could potentially work, as long as it is officially dormant. However, if that fund is still being utilized for something else, the council will have to consider a resolution to create a new account, specifically for the K9 Fundraiser money.
Representatives from the town’s accounting firm Umbaugh will be coming in on Friday, January 12th to meet with Clerk-Treasurer Rowe and Police Chief Fisher to discuss the status of the fund.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
North Judson Town Marshal Kelly Fisher announced that the NJ Police Department will be selling t-shirts and hoodies as a part of their K9 fundraiser from 8 a.m. until noon on Monday, January 8th.
The t-shirts cost $10 and the hoodies will be sold for $20. Fisher stated they consciously set the prices in order to allow all community members a chance to obtain the North Judson Police Department K9 Supporter apparel. The police station is located at 206 Keller Avenue.
She said they ordered ample supply, so products will still be available to walk-ins after that specific time and date but they just wanted to set up a time where people could come in and order a shirt on the spot or pick-up their pre-orders. She added they’re considering holding a similar shirt fundraiser at Bailey’s Discount Center in the near future.
During Tuesday’s town council meeting, Fisher alerted members that the department is nearing their goal. They recently received a $1,000 check from MedOne Mobile and the Silhay family provided a $100 donation during the meeting, in memory of their Portuguese Water Dog “Raggs” who passed away last year. Many other local business and community members have also contributed to the police department’s $20,000 goal.
During the meeting, Clerk-Treasurer Andrew Rowe also alerted the council that a specific fund needs to be established for the K9 fundraiser. He mentioned that there is an existing Police Public Donations Special Revenue Fund that could potentially work, as long as it is officially dormant. However, if that fund is still being utilized for something else, the council will have to consider a resolution to create a new account, specifically for the K9 Fundraiser money.
Representatives from the town’s accounting firm Umbaugh will be coming in on Friday, January 12th to meet with Clerk-Treasurer Rowe and Police Chief Fisher to discuss the status of the fund.
Friday, January 5, 2018
Check INSPIRE For Pre-Tests
Planning on taking the SAT / ACT / CLEP / MCAT / ASVAB / Postal test and want to practice before the big day?
Need to brush up your math / English / basic skills?
How about the US Citizenship test?
Did you know that practice tests for all of these, and many more, are available for free to residents of Indiana?
Just visit the INSPIRE home page provided by the State of Indiana, click on the button for the Testing & Education Reference Center and a world of information will open up for you.
There are over 300 practice tests and courses that you can do at your own speed – and you don’t have to worry about paying a deposit or returning a book before you are finished with it.
Need to brush up your math / English / basic skills?
How about the US Citizenship test?
Did you know that practice tests for all of these, and many more, are available for free to residents of Indiana?
Just visit the INSPIRE home page provided by the State of Indiana, click on the button for the Testing & Education Reference Center and a world of information will open up for you.
There are over 300 practice tests and courses that you can do at your own speed – and you don’t have to worry about paying a deposit or returning a book before you are finished with it.
State Health Officials Urge Residents to Test Homes for Radon
Posted on January 5, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
State health officials urge residents to check their homes for radon. It’s a tasteless, odorless, radioactive gas that can be deadly over time.
January is National Radon Action Month, and State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box reminds Hoosiers that the only way to know how much radon is in your home is by testing. Health officials say it’s simple and inexpensive. Testing kits are available at many home or hardware stores. If levels are high, licensed contractors can correct the problem.
Radon occurs naturally in soil, and can enter buildings through cracks and holes in the foundation. It causes lung damage to people who breathe in radon that’s accumulated in the air, which over time, could lead to cancer. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that radon can be blamed for 20,000 lung cancer deaths a year, making it the second leading cause of lung cancer.
For more information, visit the radon page on the Indiana State Department of Health’s website.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
State health officials urge residents to check their homes for radon. It’s a tasteless, odorless, radioactive gas that can be deadly over time.
January is National Radon Action Month, and State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box reminds Hoosiers that the only way to know how much radon is in your home is by testing. Health officials say it’s simple and inexpensive. Testing kits are available at many home or hardware stores. If levels are high, licensed contractors can correct the problem.
Radon occurs naturally in soil, and can enter buildings through cracks and holes in the foundation. It causes lung damage to people who breathe in radon that’s accumulated in the air, which over time, could lead to cancer. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that radon can be blamed for 20,000 lung cancer deaths a year, making it the second leading cause of lung cancer.
For more information, visit the radon page on the Indiana State Department of Health’s website.
Indiana Department of Revenue Offers Tax Tips, As Filing Season Approaches
Posted on January 5, 2018
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The 2018 tax season is about to get underway, and the Indiana Department of Revenue has a few tips to help save you some money. Taxpayers with an adjusted gross income of $66,000 or less may file for free, with the INfreefile program. The Department of Revenue expects that almost 2 million Hoosiers will qualify for free filing this year.
State officials add that filing electronically tends to be faster, safer, and more accurate than using paper returns. But if you do want to file on paper, printable forms for both individuals and businesses are available on the Department of Revenue’s website.
Elderly and low-income taxpayers may also qualify for tax preparation help through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs. The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program also provides help to those over 60, as well as those with low and moderate incomes.
Author Michael Gallenberger, WKVI
The 2018 tax season is about to get underway, and the Indiana Department of Revenue has a few tips to help save you some money. Taxpayers with an adjusted gross income of $66,000 or less may file for free, with the INfreefile program. The Department of Revenue expects that almost 2 million Hoosiers will qualify for free filing this year.
State officials add that filing electronically tends to be faster, safer, and more accurate than using paper returns. But if you do want to file on paper, printable forms for both individuals and businesses are available on the Department of Revenue’s website.
Elderly and low-income taxpayers may also qualify for tax preparation help through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs. The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program also provides help to those over 60, as well as those with low and moderate incomes.
North Judson Clerk-Treasurer Alerts Town Council Members of $6,000 Insurance Policy Premium Increase
Posted on January 5, 2018
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
When the North Judson Town Council met Tuesday evening, Clerk-Treasurer Andrew Rowe alerted town council members that the town’s insurance policy premium increased from $56,000 in 2017 to about $62,000 for this year.
Rowe said he has recently been working with Christin Romine, an insurance accountant executive with 1st Source Bank in order to familiarize himself with the town’s history and current policy. He explained that after talking with her, he found that a large factor for the increase is the amount of claims that the town filed over the last few years.
Council President Wendy Hoppe recalled that in 2015, within the span of a few months they lost three police vehicles, including a Dodge Charger and two Ford Crown Victoria patrol cars.
She said, “Our 2007 was wrecked in March and then the fire happened in October, so our 2007 Crown and our 2011 Crown and a 2013 Dodge Charger, all in the same year.
Rowe added that approximately a dozen of the claims went back to that same year but a number of others were added in 2016 and 2017 as well. He said the risk they run with having a high amount of claims is that if they were to switch providers in the future, private-companies would not carry them and they’d be limited to public entities.
However, he said there are some steps they can take to mitigate the incidents, such as utilizing the police department’s vehicle simulator for additional fire-fighter and police training and coordinating other activities to decrease potential liabilities.
When discussing the topic of insurance, the Clerk-Treasurer also presented members with a few additional policies to consider, including a State Board of Accounts recommended cyber-security policy and under insured/non insured coverage. Each new policy would cost an extra $2,500.
While members considered the cyber-security addition reasonable, certain members questioned the necessity of the other suggestion. Rowe was asked to look into whether something similar already exists in their base policy before members agree to add anything on.
Rowe told council members that he would speak with Romine about the concerns they brought up. A special town council meeting will be held in North Judson Town Hall at 7:30 a.m. on Monday, January 8th in order to further discuss the town’s insurance for 2018.
Author Jacque Ryan, WKVI
When the North Judson Town Council met Tuesday evening, Clerk-Treasurer Andrew Rowe alerted town council members that the town’s insurance policy premium increased from $56,000 in 2017 to about $62,000 for this year.
Rowe said he has recently been working with Christin Romine, an insurance accountant executive with 1st Source Bank in order to familiarize himself with the town’s history and current policy. He explained that after talking with her, he found that a large factor for the increase is the amount of claims that the town filed over the last few years.
Council President Wendy Hoppe recalled that in 2015, within the span of a few months they lost three police vehicles, including a Dodge Charger and two Ford Crown Victoria patrol cars.
She said, “Our 2007 was wrecked in March and then the fire happened in October, so our 2007 Crown and our 2011 Crown and a 2013 Dodge Charger, all in the same year.
Rowe added that approximately a dozen of the claims went back to that same year but a number of others were added in 2016 and 2017 as well. He said the risk they run with having a high amount of claims is that if they were to switch providers in the future, private-companies would not carry them and they’d be limited to public entities.
However, he said there are some steps they can take to mitigate the incidents, such as utilizing the police department’s vehicle simulator for additional fire-fighter and police training and coordinating other activities to decrease potential liabilities.
When discussing the topic of insurance, the Clerk-Treasurer also presented members with a few additional policies to consider, including a State Board of Accounts recommended cyber-security policy and under insured/non insured coverage. Each new policy would cost an extra $2,500.
While members considered the cyber-security addition reasonable, certain members questioned the necessity of the other suggestion. Rowe was asked to look into whether something similar already exists in their base policy before members agree to add anything on.
Rowe told council members that he would speak with Romine about the concerns they brought up. A special town council meeting will be held in North Judson Town Hall at 7:30 a.m. on Monday, January 8th in order to further discuss the town’s insurance for 2018.
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