Friday, October 29, 2010
Boo in Bluffton!
The 2010 Boo in Bluffton trick-or-treat event was a big success! Hundreds of families lined the streets of downtown, visiting local businesses and collecting their candy. Inside the Wells County Courthouse Scott Mossburg was clearly not taking any calls because someone had taken his handcuff key. In Bluffton City Hall Mayor Ted Ellis wore his best suit to greet the kids and hand out treats. Inside the Bluffton City Gym the Bluffton Parks Department had an array of tricks and treats for everyone, including a visit from Shrek.
The Great Pumpkin Battle
Bluffton Regional Medical Center was the setting for the Great Pumpkin Battle on Friday. All week employees of BRMC, Caylor-Nickel Clinic and Markle Medical Center were decorating pumpkins then paying for tickets to vote for their favorite or least favorite entrants. The money raised will go to support Wells County United Way. Their official United Way Campaign kicks-off next week.
BHES students promise to stay healthy
A convocation at Bluffton Elementary School on Friday helped remind students why they should avoid smoking, drugs and alcohol at all costs. Mayor Ted Ellis and a host of other city employees and school officials helped drive the message home.
Ossian Halloween Carnival
Thursday night's annual Ossian Halloween Carnival was a great time for kids and adults. Thanks to Ossian Health and Rehab for hosting and everyone who volunteered their time!
Thursday, October 28, 2010
BHS Dodgeball Tournament
Bluffton High School students competed in a dodgeball game last night in the gymnasium. Above is a picture of the boys' team that won the championship. Their team name was the "Voltrons". Next Tuesday the boys and girls champions will compete against the faculty during homeroom from 9-9:25.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Meet the Candidates 10/26/2010
Don't forget to vote on November 2! Polls open at 6 a.m. and remain open until 6 p.m.
Rick Smith (R) candidate for Wells County Assessor
Nilah Aschliman (D) incumbent Wells County Assessor
Monte Fisher (R), candidate for Wells County Sheriff
Bob Frantz (D) incumbent Wells County Sheriff
Phillip Stoller (R) candidate for Wells County Council District 4
Mike Kracium (D) incumbent Wells County Council Dist. 4
Rick Smith (R) candidate for Wells County Assessor
Nilah Aschliman (D) incumbent Wells County Assessor
Monte Fisher (R), candidate for Wells County Sheriff
Bob Frantz (D) incumbent Wells County Sheriff
Phillip Stoller (R) candidate for Wells County Council District 4
Mike Kracium (D) incumbent Wells County Council Dist. 4
Storms ravage Wells County
Strong winds and heavy rain battered Wells County Tuesday morning as storms raked across the area. The National Weather says the worst is over but we should expect temperatures to remain chilly for the time being.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Library giving to the Food Bank
During the month of November the Wells County Public Library is teaming up with the Wells County Food Bank to collect canned and non-perishable food. Throughout the month, look for donation boxes just inside the doors of the main library in Bluffton and at the Ossian Branch. The library staff will deliver your donations to the Food Bank where your generosity will help families in our area. Don’t miss this opportunity to remember the Thanksgiving season and share with families who could use a helping hand. Pictured left to right: Danielle Archbold, Jackie Dailey, Teresa Dustman, Leah Baumgartner. For more information, contact the library at 260-824-1612.
St. Paul's gives to the Food Bank
Rev. Paul Hunteman and wife Mabel visited with Wells County Food Bank director Connie Kaehr, Jodi Pfister, Jeanne Gilbert and Ruth Falk to make a donation of $2,500 to the Wells County Food Bank from St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Bluffton.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Adopt-A-Pet(s)
Harry is a 1 year old DLH Tiger, neutered and declawed. Very friendly!
Chloe is a 5 month old Dachshund mix, female. Very sweet girl!
*We have several fixed and de-clawed cats for adoption. Their adoption fee is only $10.00 All of them are very sweet!
Call now: 824-6063
Friday, October 22, 2010
Professor Larry DeBoer and Tax Caps
News-Banner Editor Dave Schultz discussed Tax Caps with Purdue Professor Larry DeBoer following DeBoer's visit to the Wells County Chamber of Commerce luncheon at the Arts Commerce and Visitor's Center this afternoon.
Halloween season events! (Have some fun)
Markle Public Library to host Pumpkin Decorating Contest Oct. 20-25
Between Oct. 20-25, decorated pumpkins may be brought to the Markle branch of Huntington City-Twp. Public Library to be displayed in the Children's Department.
Pumpkins should not be carved, but can be decorated with markers, paints, yarn, cloth, hats, or any such item. Pumpkins may be submitted by families, individuals, or groups.
On Oct. 26, pumpkins will be judged by library patrons in the following categories: Funniest, Most Unusual, Most Colorful, Prettiest, Scariest, and Best Overall.
Separate winners in each category will be declared at the Markle Branch Library. Winners will be notified on Oct. 27. On October 28, prizes may be picked up and pumpkins can be taken home to enjoy or carve for Halloween, or they may be entered in the Downtown Business Group's Pumpkin Decorating Contest to be held at the Huntington County Visitor and Convention Bureau at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 29.
The HCTPL Markle Branch Library is located at 197 East Morse Street, Markle. For more information call 260-758-3332.
Great Pumpkin Hunt, Oct. 23
At Lancaster Park, across from Lancaster Central Elementary School. Starts at 7:30 p.m., Kids will search for hidden candy filled pumpkins. Find pumpkins, win prizes!
Trick or Trunk Oct. 23 at Southern Wells
Southern Wells Community Church will sponsor a Trick or Trunk event Saturday, Oct. 23 from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at the Southern Wells parking lot.
Car with trunks full of treats for your child will line the East parking lot of Southern Wells Schools. A free supper of hot dogs, chips, dessert and drink will also be provided.
Join us for an evening of family fun!
Bethel Church Harvest Party Oct. 23
The Bethel Church Harvest Party will be held Saturday, Oct. 23 at 5:30 p.m. at 4500 East 300 South, Bluffton. This has been an historic time of fun, fellowship and food. There will be the Hitzfield Farms Straw Maze, a carry-in dinner starting about 6 p.m., fun games for the children, competitions for all including the intense Bible Quiz for adults and teens, the Pie, Cake, Dessert Walk and Hay Rides for young and old.
Bethel Church is an independent Bible Church in Wells County (260) 824-4547, Dr. Patrick J. Harris has been the pastor for 25 years.
Zanesville Free Halloween Party Oct. 25
The Zanesville Lions Community Free Halloween Party will be held Monday, Oct. 25 at Zanesville Ballpark, located at 3088 W. Van Horn Street.
Costume judging will start promptly at 6:30 p.m. There will be free bingo, hot dogs, chips, drinks and costume prizes. For more information call 260-638-4327.
Ossian Halloween Carnival Oct. 28
Ossian Health and Rehab and Ossian Revitalization will sponsor the Ossian Halloween Carnival Thursday, Oct. 28 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Ossian Health and Rehab Center.
There will be games, prizes, food and a costume contest.
Children’s Spooktacular at Life Care Center Oct. 29
Life Care Center of Fort Wayne will host a Spooktacular trick-or-treating event for children on Friday, Oct. 29.
Attendees are asked to bring a non-perishable food item to donate to the Community Harvest Food Bank. Children under 10 years old can dress up in their Halloween costumes and trick-or-treat in the facility. Nursing home residents and facility associates will hand out candy, and refreshments will be available.
Life Care Center of Fort Wayne, is located at 1649 Spy Run Ave., Fort Wayne. For more information, please call (260) 422-8520 or visit www.lcca.com.
Warren Pharmacy to hand out a cool treat Oct. 29
In conjunction with the Warren Scarecrow Festival Friday, Oct. 29 from 6 to 8 p.m., the Warren Pharmacy will have a limited supply of Schwans Ice Cream treats to distribute as a FREE Cool Treat to the delicious delight of those who visit the Warren Pharmacy.
Boo in Bluffton, Oct. 29
Wander through downtown Bluffton with your costumed younglings and collect candy and treat from City Hall and an assortment of participating businesses. Starts at 5 p.m. Businesses outside the downtown district start handing out candy at 6 p.m.
Zanesville Trunk or Treat, Oct. 30
Zanesville United Methodist Church. 7 p.m. Family fun for all area children. Lots of candy and cool decorated cars.
Ossian Trick or Treat Oct. 31
Trick or Treat time for Ossian is Sunday, Oct. 31 from 5:30 to 8 p.m.
Between Oct. 20-25, decorated pumpkins may be brought to the Markle branch of Huntington City-Twp. Public Library to be displayed in the Children's Department.
Pumpkins should not be carved, but can be decorated with markers, paints, yarn, cloth, hats, or any such item. Pumpkins may be submitted by families, individuals, or groups.
On Oct. 26, pumpkins will be judged by library patrons in the following categories: Funniest, Most Unusual, Most Colorful, Prettiest, Scariest, and Best Overall.
Separate winners in each category will be declared at the Markle Branch Library. Winners will be notified on Oct. 27. On October 28, prizes may be picked up and pumpkins can be taken home to enjoy or carve for Halloween, or they may be entered in the Downtown Business Group's Pumpkin Decorating Contest to be held at the Huntington County Visitor and Convention Bureau at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 29.
The HCTPL Markle Branch Library is located at 197 East Morse Street, Markle. For more information call 260-758-3332.
Great Pumpkin Hunt, Oct. 23
At Lancaster Park, across from Lancaster Central Elementary School. Starts at 7:30 p.m., Kids will search for hidden candy filled pumpkins. Find pumpkins, win prizes!
Trick or Trunk Oct. 23 at Southern Wells
Southern Wells Community Church will sponsor a Trick or Trunk event Saturday, Oct. 23 from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at the Southern Wells parking lot.
Car with trunks full of treats for your child will line the East parking lot of Southern Wells Schools. A free supper of hot dogs, chips, dessert and drink will also be provided.
Join us for an evening of family fun!
Bethel Church Harvest Party Oct. 23
The Bethel Church Harvest Party will be held Saturday, Oct. 23 at 5:30 p.m. at 4500 East 300 South, Bluffton. This has been an historic time of fun, fellowship and food. There will be the Hitzfield Farms Straw Maze, a carry-in dinner starting about 6 p.m., fun games for the children, competitions for all including the intense Bible Quiz for adults and teens, the Pie, Cake, Dessert Walk and Hay Rides for young and old.
Bethel Church is an independent Bible Church in Wells County (260) 824-4547, Dr. Patrick J. Harris has been the pastor for 25 years.
Zanesville Free Halloween Party Oct. 25
The Zanesville Lions Community Free Halloween Party will be held Monday, Oct. 25 at Zanesville Ballpark, located at 3088 W. Van Horn Street.
Costume judging will start promptly at 6:30 p.m. There will be free bingo, hot dogs, chips, drinks and costume prizes. For more information call 260-638-4327.
Ossian Halloween Carnival Oct. 28
Ossian Health and Rehab and Ossian Revitalization will sponsor the Ossian Halloween Carnival Thursday, Oct. 28 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Ossian Health and Rehab Center.
There will be games, prizes, food and a costume contest.
Children’s Spooktacular at Life Care Center Oct. 29
Life Care Center of Fort Wayne will host a Spooktacular trick-or-treating event for children on Friday, Oct. 29.
Attendees are asked to bring a non-perishable food item to donate to the Community Harvest Food Bank. Children under 10 years old can dress up in their Halloween costumes and trick-or-treat in the facility. Nursing home residents and facility associates will hand out candy, and refreshments will be available.
Life Care Center of Fort Wayne, is located at 1649 Spy Run Ave., Fort Wayne. For more information, please call (260) 422-8520 or visit www.lcca.com.
Warren Pharmacy to hand out a cool treat Oct. 29
In conjunction with the Warren Scarecrow Festival Friday, Oct. 29 from 6 to 8 p.m., the Warren Pharmacy will have a limited supply of Schwans Ice Cream treats to distribute as a FREE Cool Treat to the delicious delight of those who visit the Warren Pharmacy.
Boo in Bluffton, Oct. 29
Wander through downtown Bluffton with your costumed younglings and collect candy and treat from City Hall and an assortment of participating businesses. Starts at 5 p.m. Businesses outside the downtown district start handing out candy at 6 p.m.
Zanesville Trunk or Treat, Oct. 30
Zanesville United Methodist Church. 7 p.m. Family fun for all area children. Lots of candy and cool decorated cars.
Ossian Trick or Treat Oct. 31
Trick or Treat time for Ossian is Sunday, Oct. 31 from 5:30 to 8 p.m.
Indiana releases scores for new ECA exams
Indiana Department of Education Release:
The Indiana Department of Education released 2010 End-of-Course Assessment (ECA) scores today. Student results varied across the state. Of students who took the respective tests, 61 percent passed the Algebra 1 test, 63 percent passed the English 10 test, and 37 percent passed the Biology1 test. This is the first time ECAs have been used for accountability in Indiana. Therefore, final student scores were delayed slightly so new cut scores could be set.
“Much like the first spring administration of the ISTEP+ exam for grades 3-8 in 2009, these scores serve as a baseline for schools and school corporations,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Tony Bennett said. “We believe our students can and must perform better in the future, and I hope teachers and administrators will use this data to drive instructional improvement in those areas where students need the most help. I am confident our educators will help our students achieve through increased academic rigor.”
Current graduation testing guidelines require students in the class of 2012 and beyond to pass the Algebra 1 and English 10 assessments. Participation in the Biology 1 assessment fulfills a requirement under No Child Left Behind (NCLB).
Unlike the former Graduation Qualifying Exam (GQE), ECAs are not administered to all tenth grade students at one time. Instead, they are administered when a student completes the course being tested. Also, in contrast to the GQE (which will be administered for the final time in March to students belonging to the class of 2011), ECAs do not necessarily reflect the achievement of a single grade level of students. This makes it very difficult to compare results from school to school. In many corporations, Algebra I is offered prior to high school to varying percentages of students who have demonstrated advanced achievement in mathematics. For example, Lakeside Middle School in Ft. Wayne only had 24 test takers in Algebra 1, resulting in 96 percent passing. By comparison Northrop High School, also in Ft. Wayne, had 992 test takers in Algebra 1, with a 54 percent passing rate. To make the most valid comparisons, data should be analyzed at the corporation level, instead of by individual school.
“The ECAs are critical tools to help predict student success following high school,” Bennett said. “To successfully compete in the 21st century economy, students must master these subjects which serve as a foundation of college and career readiness. In addition, we must improve so students are not spending time in college taking remediation courses because they didn’t master this material in high school.”
Students who fail an ECA are less likely to be prepared for entry-level college courses. Assuming every student who failed an ECA this year would need some remediation during college, IDOE’s calculations show that these 140,000 students would spend an estimated additional $26 million at various higher education institutions simply to obtain the skills necessary to begin college-level coursework.
Student results were provided to schools and parents in September. Every student receives a comprehensive Individual Student Report indicating performance with a Pass+, Pass or Did Not Pass. The report also shows specific areas of strength the student might have in that particular content area. Parents have online access to a copy of their student’s short answer and essay responses and should contact their student’s school for more information.
To view a full list of individual results for Indiana school and school corporations, click here:
.
The Indiana Department of Education released 2010 End-of-Course Assessment (ECA) scores today. Student results varied across the state. Of students who took the respective tests, 61 percent passed the Algebra 1 test, 63 percent passed the English 10 test, and 37 percent passed the Biology1 test. This is the first time ECAs have been used for accountability in Indiana. Therefore, final student scores were delayed slightly so new cut scores could be set.
“Much like the first spring administration of the ISTEP+ exam for grades 3-8 in 2009, these scores serve as a baseline for schools and school corporations,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Tony Bennett said. “We believe our students can and must perform better in the future, and I hope teachers and administrators will use this data to drive instructional improvement in those areas where students need the most help. I am confident our educators will help our students achieve through increased academic rigor.”
Current graduation testing guidelines require students in the class of 2012 and beyond to pass the Algebra 1 and English 10 assessments. Participation in the Biology 1 assessment fulfills a requirement under No Child Left Behind (NCLB).
Unlike the former Graduation Qualifying Exam (GQE), ECAs are not administered to all tenth grade students at one time. Instead, they are administered when a student completes the course being tested. Also, in contrast to the GQE (which will be administered for the final time in March to students belonging to the class of 2011), ECAs do not necessarily reflect the achievement of a single grade level of students. This makes it very difficult to compare results from school to school. In many corporations, Algebra I is offered prior to high school to varying percentages of students who have demonstrated advanced achievement in mathematics. For example, Lakeside Middle School in Ft. Wayne only had 24 test takers in Algebra 1, resulting in 96 percent passing. By comparison Northrop High School, also in Ft. Wayne, had 992 test takers in Algebra 1, with a 54 percent passing rate. To make the most valid comparisons, data should be analyzed at the corporation level, instead of by individual school.
“The ECAs are critical tools to help predict student success following high school,” Bennett said. “To successfully compete in the 21st century economy, students must master these subjects which serve as a foundation of college and career readiness. In addition, we must improve so students are not spending time in college taking remediation courses because they didn’t master this material in high school.”
Students who fail an ECA are less likely to be prepared for entry-level college courses. Assuming every student who failed an ECA this year would need some remediation during college, IDOE’s calculations show that these 140,000 students would spend an estimated additional $26 million at various higher education institutions simply to obtain the skills necessary to begin college-level coursework.
Student results were provided to schools and parents in September. Every student receives a comprehensive Individual Student Report indicating performance with a Pass+, Pass or Did Not Pass. The report also shows specific areas of strength the student might have in that particular content area. Parents have online access to a copy of their student’s short answer and essay responses and should contact their student’s school for more information.
To view a full list of individual results for Indiana school and school corporations, click here:
.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Adopt-A-Pet(s)
Pepper: 1 and 1/2 yr old all black border collie/Lab. mix
Hershey : 3 yr old Chocolate Lab Male
Sophie: 2 yr old grey calico female
*We have several fixed and de-clawed cats for adoption. Their adoption fee is only $10.00 All of them are very sweet!
Call now: 824-6063
NMS delivers for the Food Bank
Norwell Middle school students raised more than $1,900 and more than 2,400 food items for the Wells County Food Bank. This week they were rewarded for their hard work with doughnuts for breakfast. See the story in today's News-Banner.
Halloween Safety Tips
(Indiana State Police release)
Halloween may be a fun holiday for children, but for parents the holiday can be a little tricky. To help parents and children have a safe and enjoyable Halloween, the Indiana State Police offers the following safety tips:
The Costume
Keep costumes short to prevent trips and falls.
Try make-up instead of a mask. Masks often obstruct a child's vision, which makes tasks like crossing the street and going up and down stairs dangerous.
Make sure children wear light colors or put reflective tape on their costumes.
Trick or Treating
Make sure older children trick-or-treat with friends. Together, map out a safe route so parents know where they will be.
Instruct children to stop only at familiar homes where the outside lights are on.
Encourage children to trick-or-treat while it's still light out. If children are out after dark, make sure they have flashlights and travel on well lighted streets.
Remind children not to enter the homes or cars of strangers.
Follow your communities trick-or-treating hours.
Treats
Remind children not to eat any of their treats until they get home.
Check out all treats at home in a well-lighted place.
Only eat unopened candies and other treats that are in original wrappers. Remember to inspect fruits for anything suspicious.
Additionally, many communities, schools and churches offer children safe alternatives to trick-or-treating designed to keep children safely within parents' view. Some hospitals and schools allow children to trick-or-treat by going from room to room virtually eliminating the dangers associated with being out walking on the street after dark.
Halloween may be a fun holiday for children, but for parents the holiday can be a little tricky. To help parents and children have a safe and enjoyable Halloween, the Indiana State Police offers the following safety tips:
The Costume
Keep costumes short to prevent trips and falls.
Try make-up instead of a mask. Masks often obstruct a child's vision, which makes tasks like crossing the street and going up and down stairs dangerous.
Make sure children wear light colors or put reflective tape on their costumes.
Trick or Treating
Make sure older children trick-or-treat with friends. Together, map out a safe route so parents know where they will be.
Instruct children to stop only at familiar homes where the outside lights are on.
Encourage children to trick-or-treat while it's still light out. If children are out after dark, make sure they have flashlights and travel on well lighted streets.
Remind children not to enter the homes or cars of strangers.
Follow your communities trick-or-treating hours.
Treats
Remind children not to eat any of their treats until they get home.
Check out all treats at home in a well-lighted place.
Only eat unopened candies and other treats that are in original wrappers. Remember to inspect fruits for anything suspicious.
Additionally, many communities, schools and churches offer children safe alternatives to trick-or-treating designed to keep children safely within parents' view. Some hospitals and schools allow children to trick-or-treat by going from room to room virtually eliminating the dangers associated with being out walking on the street after dark.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
A tree grows in Roush Park
Diane Cornett, Children's Ministry at First Church of Christ, spoke with News-Banner Editor Dave Schultz about the reasons why her group was planting trees around Roush Park....
Mayor Ted visits 2nd graders
Mayor Ellis visited the second grade classrooms today. He spoke about the many responsibilities of the mayor. We discussed vocabulary words we are learning in Social Studies, such as community, rural, suburban and urban areas. He spoke about how someone is elected the Mayor and also about our tax dollars at work. He concluded with questions from the children.(Photos Provided)
SWES Student Health Council Holds “FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT”
On Wednesday October 6th, SWES held their 5th annual “Family Movie Night”. Well over 100 participants came for hotdogs, cookies, popcorn and lemonade. Following the meal, the audience got to watch the movie “Marmaduke”. The Student Health Council along with Mrs. Stinson and Mr. Carter will also be hosting a “Family Skate Night” in November. (Photo Provided)
INDIANA LANDMARKS @ THE LIBRARY
Discover how the Indiana Landmarks Society protects and celebrates the historic buildings in the Hoosier State on Tuesday, Oct. 19 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wells County Public Library. Catherine R. Wright, of the Indiana Landmarks Society, will discuss their projects and shows photographs of the organization's efforts, including the restoration of the beautiful
Central Avenue United Methodist Church in Indianapolis which is expected to open this spring as the society’s new headquarters and cultural performance center (pictured above). The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call the library at 260-824-1612 or visit online at www.wellscolibrary.org
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
On the Wabash
News-Banner Intern Marci Mettler visited the annual Wabash River water quality evaluation project conducted by Bluffton Middle School students with volunteers from the General Motors Fort Wayne Assembly Plant. The students will be out there again today and finish up their work tomorrow. (Photos by News-Banner Intern Marci Mettler)
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Street Fair Redux
Help make next year's fair better! Visit our Bluffton Street Fair blog and answer a few simple questions at the 100th Street Fair.
And watch some cool video while you're there...like this:
And watch some cool video while you're there...like this:
Flu shots available
The Wells County Health Department will be offering flu shots from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Oct. 27, at the Wells County 4-H Park, 1240S 4-H Road.
Flu shots will be available to ages 6 months through adults and no appointment is needed.
Flu shots are $15. Medicare billing is available for those presenting Medicare and Supplemental Insurance Cards.
For more information contact the health department at 824-6490.
Flu shots will be available to ages 6 months through adults and no appointment is needed.
Flu shots are $15. Medicare billing is available for those presenting Medicare and Supplemental Insurance Cards.
For more information contact the health department at 824-6490.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Pinewood Derby!
12-18
Kristopher Dunn – winner
Dakota Clark – runner up
James Bradley
Jordan Bradley
Under 12
Clay Frauhiger – winner
Lily Brown – runner up
Jesse Bradley
Jabez Bradley
Quinn Frauhiger
Over 18
David Bradley – winner
Craig Brown – runner up
Julie Bradley
Wells County Public Library Pinewood Derby Winners received $20 in Chamber Bucks. Runners-Up received $10 in Chamber Bucks. (Photos by Deb Perry)
Congratulations to all the winners and participants!
Adopt-A-Pet
Willow is a 7 year old Ragdoll, female. She is very affectionate!
Hershey is a 3 year old Chocolate Lab, male. He is a friendly guy!
*We have several fixed and de-clawed cats for adoption. Their adoption fee is only $10.00 All of them are very sweet!
Call now: 824-6063
Candlelight Vigil
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Folks gathered at Angel of Hope park to commemorate the lives affected by this scourge and offered their prayers to help bring about its end in Indiana.
United Way Raffle Success!
Last weeks UW Raffle/Bingo night was a great event which raised a lot of money to help the Wells County United Way. Thanks to everyone involved; volunteers, donors, contributors and bidders!
Friday, October 8, 2010
Donuts, Cider and Demolition
The Wells County 4-H Junior Leaders booth will be demolished at 10 a.m., Saturday, to make room for a new booth. The public is welcome to enjoy cider and donuts and watch as the old booth is destroyed.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Inside the House of Hope Farm
There will be a public open house at the new House of Hope Farm, 1248E 100N, on October 23, from 3-7 p.m. The facility will be a traditional farm where they will raise grass fed cattle using rotational grazing; sheep, chickens and have a large garden of vegetables.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Driving down deer-vehicle crashes – use precautions at this time of year to reduce your risks
It's that time of year again, so I thought I would pass this along.
Madison, Wis. (October 6, 2010) – It’s the season where the leaves are changing color, a crisp chill is in the air – and motorists in many states are more likely to encounter deer on streets and highways. Unfortunately, these meetings often result in a serious traffic accident.
Hundreds of thousands of animal-vehicle crashes occur each year, the majority with deer. This results in millions of dollars of damages, injuries and in some cases, even death.
Sometimes these accidents are unavoidable, particularly during the fall months into early winter when deer are active and breeding. However, attentive drivers can take several simple precautions to reduce the likelihood of these encounters resulting in a traffic accident.
From July 2009 to July 2010, American Family customers in the company’s 19 operating states submitted claims for animal-vehicle crashes totaling more than $80 million, with Wisconsin ($22.2 million), Missouri ($14.7 million) and Minnesota ($10.1 million) reporting the highest numbers, accounting for more than 58 percent of claims, with an average cost per claim of $2,514 (see chart below for statistics on the top 12 states among the 19 states in which American Family operates).
Here are some defensive driving tips to help avoid deer-vehicle accidents:
• Fasten your seatbelt. It’s simple common sense and the best defense in the event a crash is unavoidable.
• Pay attention to deer-crossing signs.
• Be especially alert at dawn and dusk. These are the times deer are most active.
• If you see one deer, expect more to follow. Deer typically travel in single file.
•I f you see a deer on the road, brake firmly and blow your horn.
• If a crash is unavoidable, don’t swerve! Studies show the most serious crashes occur when motorists swerve to avoid a deer and hit another vehicle or object, or roll over.
One preventative measure you might hear about is the use of deer whistles. Deer whistles produce ultrasonic noise when the vehicle they are attached to exceeds 30 mph. The idea is the deer will be warned upon hearing the noise. It’s unclear whether deer hear the noise, but regardless, studies show the whistles have no effect on deer behavior, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
If you do strike a deer, contact the authorities. You may be legally required to report an accident with significant vehicle damage, depending on state laws. Also contact your insurance company to report your claim. Collision with an animal is covered under the comprehensive section of your auto insurance policy.
Based in Madison, Wis., American Family Insurance offers auto, homeowners, life, health, commercial and farm/ranch insurance in 19 states. American Family ranks 344th on the Fortune 500 list and is the nation’s third-largest mutual property/casualty insurance company.
###
July 31, 2009 – July 31, 2010 American Family claims for animal hits*
Ranked by number of claims
State Number of Claims Cost of Claims
Wisconsin 8,673 $22,241,962
Missouri 5,894 $14,698,783
Minnesota 4,148 $10,117, 493
Kansas 2,222 $5,976,040
Illinois 1,918 $5,081,927
Iowa 1,688 $4,260,197
Ohio 1,229 $3,022,257
Indiana 1,149 $2,815,057
South Dakota 1,120 $2,637,521
Colorado 741 $2,491,423
Nebraska 846 $2,195,798
North Dakota 719 $1,727,841
Average cost per claim $2,514
Madison, Wis. (October 6, 2010) – It’s the season where the leaves are changing color, a crisp chill is in the air – and motorists in many states are more likely to encounter deer on streets and highways. Unfortunately, these meetings often result in a serious traffic accident.
Hundreds of thousands of animal-vehicle crashes occur each year, the majority with deer. This results in millions of dollars of damages, injuries and in some cases, even death.
Sometimes these accidents are unavoidable, particularly during the fall months into early winter when deer are active and breeding. However, attentive drivers can take several simple precautions to reduce the likelihood of these encounters resulting in a traffic accident.
From July 2009 to July 2010, American Family customers in the company’s 19 operating states submitted claims for animal-vehicle crashes totaling more than $80 million, with Wisconsin ($22.2 million), Missouri ($14.7 million) and Minnesota ($10.1 million) reporting the highest numbers, accounting for more than 58 percent of claims, with an average cost per claim of $2,514 (see chart below for statistics on the top 12 states among the 19 states in which American Family operates).
Here are some defensive driving tips to help avoid deer-vehicle accidents:
• Fasten your seatbelt. It’s simple common sense and the best defense in the event a crash is unavoidable.
• Pay attention to deer-crossing signs.
• Be especially alert at dawn and dusk. These are the times deer are most active.
• If you see one deer, expect more to follow. Deer typically travel in single file.
•I f you see a deer on the road, brake firmly and blow your horn.
• If a crash is unavoidable, don’t swerve! Studies show the most serious crashes occur when motorists swerve to avoid a deer and hit another vehicle or object, or roll over.
One preventative measure you might hear about is the use of deer whistles. Deer whistles produce ultrasonic noise when the vehicle they are attached to exceeds 30 mph. The idea is the deer will be warned upon hearing the noise. It’s unclear whether deer hear the noise, but regardless, studies show the whistles have no effect on deer behavior, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
If you do strike a deer, contact the authorities. You may be legally required to report an accident with significant vehicle damage, depending on state laws. Also contact your insurance company to report your claim. Collision with an animal is covered under the comprehensive section of your auto insurance policy.
Based in Madison, Wis., American Family Insurance offers auto, homeowners, life, health, commercial and farm/ranch insurance in 19 states. American Family ranks 344th on the Fortune 500 list and is the nation’s third-largest mutual property/casualty insurance company.
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July 31, 2009 – July 31, 2010 American Family claims for animal hits*
Ranked by number of claims
State Number of Claims Cost of Claims
Wisconsin 8,673 $22,241,962
Missouri 5,894 $14,698,783
Minnesota 4,148 $10,117, 493
Kansas 2,222 $5,976,040
Illinois 1,918 $5,081,927
Iowa 1,688 $4,260,197
Ohio 1,229 $3,022,257
Indiana 1,149 $2,815,057
South Dakota 1,120 $2,637,521
Colorado 741 $2,491,423
Nebraska 846 $2,195,798
North Dakota 719 $1,727,841
Average cost per claim $2,514
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Miss Indiana comes to Bluffton
Miss Indiana Gabrielle Reed visited Lancaster Central Elementary and Bluffton High School last week to discuss her stance against domestic violence. Reed, a 2005 BHS graduate, is currently taking a year off from her studies at Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, to fulfill her duties as Miss Indiana. Reed will compete in the Miss America pageant on January 15, 2011 in Las Vegas. (Photos by News-Banner Intern Marci Mettler)
Monday, October 4, 2010
Adopt-A-Pet
Joe: 4 yr. old male Great Pyrenees
Ariel : 4 month old DSH female tiger and white
*We have several fixed and de-clawed cats for adoption. Their adoption fee is only $10.00 All of them are very sweet!
Call now: 824-6063
LCES walk-a-thon
This year the Lancaster central Elementary School PTO raised more than $17,000 in corporate and direct sponsorships during its annual Walk-A-Thon. This money is used to buy school supplies and recently was used to purchase smartboards for three 5th grade classroom.
PBS39 AT THE LIBRARY
– You love the shows: Antiques Roadshow, Sesame Street, and all the great home & garden programs on Create. Now discover what goes on behind the scenes at our local Fort Wayne PBS station on Wednesday, Oct. 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wells County Public Library. Mark Ryan, WFWA PBS39 Creative Services Manager, shares with us how the technology works and why local public television matters in this age of broadband, cable and satellite choices. The program is free. For more information, call the library at 260-824-1612 or visit online at www.wellscolibrary.org
Friday, October 1, 2010
"Art for Sale"
Beginning Saturday, Oct. 2 and continuing through Oct. 12,, area artists will be exhibiting and selling their works at the Balentine Gallery at the Arts Commerce & Visitors Centre. Four of the artists are shown by a collage painting they created this summer at the T.C.Steele Historic Site in Brown County. Each painted a different view of Steele’s House of the Singing Winds that when put together make a collage. It will be one of the works for sale at the exhibit. Left to right are Tommye Still, Trina Pope, Rosemary Pope and Mary Ellen McEvoy. An open house for the exhibit will be held today (Oct. 2) from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. (Video by Barbara Barbieri)
Shanly visits BHS
News-Banner Reporter Frank Shanly visited Bluffton High School history students in Mike Kracium's class on Wednesday. Shanly is an amateur military historian and collector of authentic military miniatures. Cool stuff...
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