Congresswoman Promotes Tax Deduction Incentive to Combat Food Insecurity

Congresswoman Jackie Walorski
Congresswoman Jackie Walorski

Congresswoman Jackie Walorski was in Mishawaka yesterday to promote a tax deduction sought for permanent extension.

According to a press release, the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation that encourages donations. The bill, also known as the Fighting Hunger Incentive Act permanently extends the deduction for businesses to donate food inventory to local food pantries.
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Wind Chill Advisory Takes Effect This Afternoon

 
 

A wind chill advisory will take effect this afternoon and remain in place through midday tomorrow. Dangerous wind chill values between 10 and 25 below zero are expected late this afternoon through tomorrow morning. Prolonged exposure to extreme cold can lead to hypothermia and frostbite in 30 minutes or less. If you have to be outside, wear a hat and gloves and protect exposed skin.

Area RadioShack Locations Untouched by Bankruptcy Filing

  
 

Two retail electronics locations in the immediate area will not be closed despite hundreds of locations shutting their doors around the country.

The company announced February 5th they filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protections with the help of chapter 13 bankruptcy lawyers in Oklahoma City. Right now, an asset purchase agreement has been signed with General Wireless to acquire up to 2,400 company-owned stores.
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Ancilla Schedules Financial Aid Night at Oregon-Davis

College financial aidAncilla College officials will be at Oregon-Davis High School tonight to share information about applying for college financial aid. They’ve scheduled a presentation about completing the FAFSA at 6 p.m. and will remain to help parents and students complete the form. It’s due March 10 and must be submitted in order to be considered for any federal grants, low-interest loans or scholarships. Continue reading →

Child Found Walking along State Road 8

 
 

A report will be filed with the Starke County Prosecutor’s Office after a four-year-old child was found walking alone down State Road 8 in the area of County Road 1100 East.

The person who made the call picked up the child and waited until an officer arrived at the scene. The officer attempted to locate the child’s home but was unsuccessful. The officer also could not find the child’s parents, so the child’s custody was turned over to the Department of Child Services, according to a press release.

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Advisory Travel Levels Remain in Effect

 
 

Starke County is now under an advisory level travel status. That means routine travel or activities may be restricted in areas because of a hazardous situation, and individuals should use caution or avoid those areas.

Marshall County is also observing an advisory level travel status.

While most of the main roads are clear, secondary county roads may remain snow-covered, icy and hazardous. Emergency officials urge you to allow plenty of time to get to your destination and allow snow plow drivers enough room to work.

More snow is on the way this week accompanied by frigid temperatures. Take action now to prepare for the cold snap. Residents are reminded to leave a small drip of water from faucets to prevent frozen pipes.

College Goal Sunday Event This Weekend

 Those needing assistance filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, form can get assistance in this weekend’s College Goal Sunday event.

The form is due March 10 to be eligible for federal student aid. The FAFSA form is required for students to be considered for federal and state grants, scholarships and student loans at most post-secondary schools. The FAFSA form can be perceived as time-consuming, but students can get the FAFSA form filed online during Sunday’s event.

College Goal Sunday has helped more than 90,000 Indiana students and families complete the FAFSA properly and on time. According to the Indiana Commission for Higher Education’s Division of Student Financial Aid, more single parents have filed for financial aid proving that the program is reaching high-risk students and families.

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Ancilla Student Uses Skills in Woodworking and Business

Ancilla College NEWOne Ancilla College student is combining their education with a bit of woodworking skill.

Sophomore Andrew Huff will begin selling long boards at Culver Marina and Outpost Sports in the near future. Under his company: Huff & Puff Board Co., he uses reclaimed wood to manufacturing the devices. Long boards function similarly to a skateboard, but the extra length provides greater traction and stability.
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Walorski Touts Benefits of Bill to Assist Veterans

Congresswoman Jackie Walorski
Congresswoman Jackie Walorski

Legislation championed by U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski to help veterans get access to mental health services is now law. She attended a signing ceremony last week at the White House for The Clay Hunt SAV Act. Walorski says it sets up a website to serve as a one-stop shop for veterans who are struggling with mental health problems. It also bridges the VA healthcare bureaucracy by offering more community-based services. Continue reading →

Amid Major Data Breaches, BBB Advocates for Protections

BBBThe Better Business Bureau is reminding Americans to protect themselves from having personal and sensitive information stolen.

The message is in response to a major data breach at Anthem Insurance. According to a press release, hackers stole personal identifying information from both current and former customers. Items taken include names, addresses, Social Security numbers, and dates of birth.
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Starke County Officials to Discuss Staffing at New Jail

starke-county-courthouseStarke County Sheriff Bill Dulin will present the amended staffing report for the new jail to the county council and commissioners this evening. The facility east of Knox is scheduled to open in June and will require additional staff to handle the increased inmate capacity. Dulin will present the report to the council during their 5:30 p.m. meeting and to the commissioners when they meet at 6. Both sessions will take place at the county annex building. Continue reading →