PLYMOUTH — The Marshall County Emergency Management Agency has upgraded Marshall County to a “Travel Watch” effective immediately.

A Travel Watch is the middle level of local travel restrictions. During a “watch” local travel advisory, only essential travel, such as to and from work or in emergencies, is recommended. Travel watches are signified with orange on statewide travel status maps. Please note that due to high traffic, the state’s website has been crashing and is slow to update
Marshall County EMA encourages businesses, schools, and other facilities to activate their Emergency Operating Plan and act in the interest of their employees and the public’s safety.
Winter Storm Fern dropped 4-6″ of snow across Marshall County, which, combined with previous snowfall, has led to drifting roads, especially those oriented North/South and in rural areas. The Marshall County Highway Department is reporting that it has been difficult to keep up with drifting in some areas while attempting to plow.
The Travel Watch will remain in place overnight and will be reassessed regularly for a potential return to normal travel status.
In the meantime, EMA encourages all travelers to stay home and only travel for essential purposes. If you do have to drive, please go extra slow and be courteous to those around you.

INDIANA – The Indiana Department of Transportation, Indiana State Police, and Indiana Department of Homeland Security urge

Hoosiers to prepare for a significant winter weather event this weekend.
A winter storm will have statewide impacts Saturday, January 24 through Sunday, January 25. Heavy snowfall is expected, especially for the southern half of the state. Lake effect is expected to follow in Northwest Indiana, continuing into Monday. Extremely cold temperatures and negative wind chills are forecasted Friday, January 23 through Tuesday, January 27.
The greatest impacts to travel will be Saturday evening through Sunday morning, but impacts are expected to be ongoing due to frigid temperatures and the possibility of blowing, drifting snow.
INDOT will have all available plows and drivers out on our state-maintained roads (state highways, interstates and U.S. routes). Preparations are being made now to ensure trucks, equipment and personnel are ready. Over 940 plow trucks and over 1,600 plow operators will be deployed over the weekend, with additional winter operations personnel providing support. Crews will remain active for the duration of the event and afterward to continue cleanup efforts.
It takes an average of two-to-three hours for crews to complete a full snow route. During heavy snowfall rates, roadways will become snow-covered between plow passes. Extreme temperatures will hinder the effectiveness of salt so plowing will be INDOT’s main course of action during this winter event. Drivers will treat as conditions allow, and additives may be used to increase the effectiveness of salt. These temperatures will also have an effect on plow fuel systems, requiring the use of fuel additives to prevent freezing.
Motorists are encouraged to keep these tips in mind over the course of this winter event:
Avoid travel during and immediately after winter weather if possible
Share travel plans with others, including route and estimated time of arrival
Have an emergency car kit that includes, at a minimum, water, snacks, blankets, extra clothing, phone charger, a small shovel and a flashlight
Clear snow from all over the vehicle, not just the windows
Consider using fuel treatments to prevent fuel lines from freezing due to extreme temperatures
Utilize main routes where help may be more readily available if needed
Be alert for flashing lights and always give snow plows, first responders and tow companies extra space to work
Drive to the conditions: leave early, slow down, and increase following and stopping distances
Do not overestimate your driving skills or the capability of your vehicle to handle the snow
When in doubt, stay off the road
Resources during winter weather:
National Weather Service Weather Briefing: https://www.weather.gov/ind/INwxbrief
Real-time road conditions via INDOT road and snow plow cameras: https://511in.org/ or the free “INDOT TrafficWise” mobile app: https://www.in.gov/indot/contact-indot/indot-mobile-app/
Updates via INDOT Social Media Channels: https://www.in.gov/indot/media-room/connect-with-social-media/
IDHS Travel Advisory Map: https://www.in.gov/dhs/travel-advisory-map/

PLYMOUTH — Plymouth Community School Corporation is proud to recognize Jaxon Frick for receiving the IASP Reel Impact

Award, an honor presented by the Indiana Association of School Principals to students whose video work makes a meaningful impact by telling the story of their school community.
Jaxon’s award-winning reel highlights the everyday moments that make Plymouth Community School Corporation special. Through thoughtful storytelling and creative visuals, his work showcases students, staff, and school events in a way that connects audiences and reflects the positive culture across PCSC schools.
The Reel Impact Award recognizes student creators who use digital media to strengthen school communication and celebrate education. Jaxon’s reel stood out for its creativity, professionalism, and ability to capture authentic moments that resonate with viewers.
“Jaxon’s work demonstrates the power of student voice and creativity,” said PCSC representatives. “His reel not only tells our story but does so in a way that reflects pride in our schools and community.”
Jaxon’s Reel Impact Award feature can be viewed through the Indiana Association of School Principals’ Reel Impact Spotlight. To watch his reel, visit: https://youtube.com/shorts/UZm7lZzWL0I

PLYMOUTH — The Plymouth Board of Public Works and Safety and Common Council will hold their regular monthly meetings

on Monday, beginning with the Board of Works at 6 p.m. and the Common Council to immediately follow.
On the agenda for the Board of Works are opening quotes for a truck, a dump truck, and three police squad cars.
The Common Council will hear second and third readings on ordinances to amend the commercial revitalization program and establish non-emergency response fees.
Both meetings will be held in the Council Chambers on the second floor of the City Building in Plymouth. Those attending should enter through the Garro Street entrance. If you need special accommodation to attend the meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator at 574-936-2948.
Both meetings will be streamed on YouTube @CityofPlymouth.

​PLYMOUTH — On Jan. 20,​ at approximately 8:30 PM, Marshall County Sheriff’s Department deputies responded to a residence

in the 6,​000 block of State Road 17 in reference to a domestic disturbance. Dispatch had received a 911 call from a juvenile inside the residence that stated his dad was on top of his mom, choking her.
Upon deputies’ arrival,​ the man,​ later identified as 31-year-old Joshua Hostetler,​ attempted to batter deputies with a deadly weapon.
Hostetler proceeded to resist law enforcement and was ultimately taken into custody. Upon the deputies’ investigation,​ Hostetler was transported to Plymouth Hospital for jail clearance. Upon obtaining jail clearance,​ Hostetler was transported to the Marshall County Jail. He was booked for battery with a deadly weapon (attempted),​ criminal reckless with a deadly weapon,​ domestic battery in the presence of a child less than 16 years old,​ strangulation,​ and resisting law enforcement.
The Marshall County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by the Plymouth Police Department and Plymouth Fire/EMS.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

PLYMOUTH — President of the Commissioners, Stan Klotz, told his fellow board members he had

arranged a meeting with state officials, MACOG (Michiana Area Council of Governments) officials, and representatives from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation and the town of Argos to discuss “economic development” in the town, specifically the impact of road infrastructure.

Klotz said the meeting was merely informational, but will be advertised as a meeting to allow the other Commissioners to attend.
Tentative meeting date is Jan. 30 at 10 p.m. in the second-floor meeting room of the Marshall County Building on Jefferson St.

PLYMOUTH — On Jan. 18,​ at 2:30 a.m. K-9 Officer Diesel,​ the Marshall County Drug Task

Force,​ and officers with the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department and Plymouth Police Department conducted an investigation and executed a search warrant at the Economy Inn in Plymouth.
Upon conclusion of the investigation,​ 24-year-old Anna Clemons and 33-year-old Brent Hessler were taken into custody. During the investigation, suspected methamphetamine,​ hypodermic syringes,​ and drug paraphernalia were located.
Hessler was found to have an active warrant for his arrest for a parole violation from the original charge of dealing methamphetamine. He and Clemons were transported to the Marshall County Jail.
Clemons was booked for possession of methamphetamine,​ unlawful possession of a hypodermic syringe

or needle,​ maintaining a common nuisance,​ and possession of paraphernalia. Hessler was booked for possession of methamphetamine,​ unlawful possession of a hypodermic syringe or needle,​ maintaining a common nuisance,​ possession of paraphernalia,​ and his active warrant.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

PLYMOUTH — The Plymouth Redevelopment Commission took the first step in a long process of

considering a contract with R2 to do an energy efficiency study for the Plymouth Aquatic Center.
Plymouth City Attorney Jeff Houin explained the long process involved.

Houin recommended the board vote for the resolution to keep the option open to consider the contract at a later date. The amount would be just over $16,000.

CULVER — Culver’s Town Council will meet on Thursday night at 6:30 p.m. in the Culver Town Hall at 200

East Washington St. in Culver.
On the agenda are utility and ordinance violation appeals, reports from various commissions, and a discussion of Winterfest.
The meeting will be available to view on YouTube @townofculver6770

LaPAZ — On Monday,​ Jan. 19,​ at 2:41 pm,​ Marshall County Central Dispatch received a call regarding a

two-vehicle collision on US 6,​ west of US 31.
When Officers arrived on scene,​ it was learned that a southbound SUV, driven by Sandra Magner, 71 of Elkhart, ​failed to stop at the intersection at US 6 from the ramp off of ​US 31 south ​and was struck by a westbound truck driven by Ezra Leed, 45, of LaPaz.
Magner was transported to Memorial Hospital. The driver of the truck was uninjured.
The Marshall County Sheriff’s Department was assisted on scene by an Off-Duty South Bend Police Officer,​ LaPaz Fire and EMS,​ and Lyons Wrecker Service. ​

PLYMOUTH — On Jan. 18 at 5:16 p.m., Officers with the Plymouth Police Department conducted a traffic

stop on a vehicle whose registration the registered owner had shown was suspended.
The registered owner was identified as James Jackson IV, 33, of South Bend. Plymouth Officers conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle, and it pulled into Kroger’s Gas Station Parking lot. Jackson was driving and knew his license was suspended, and told the officer he had to return to court in Saint Joseph County in a month for driving while suspended.
Jackson was placed into handcuffs, and when the officer was doing a pat down, he located a black package with Marijuana inside, along with 2 THC vapes. When officers conducted a vehicle search, they located 3 other packages with green leafy substance inside and another THC vape.
Jackson was then transported to Marshall County Jail, where he was booked in for driving while suspended prior and possession of marijuana. James was given a court date and bond.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

PLYMOUTH — Marshall County Sheriff Matthew Hassel announced today that the Indiana Sheriff’s

Association will again award college scholarships to qualified high school seniors or college students pursuing a degree in criminal justice studies. There will be approximately forty (40) $1000.00 scholarships awarded to qualifying students throughout the state.
The Indiana Sheriff’s Association Scholarship Fund was established for the purpose of receiving, investing, and dispensing funds to provide college scholarships to qualified students who are committed to pursuing an education and career in the law enforcement field.
To qualify for one of these scholarships, the applicant must be an Indiana resident, be a current member of the association or a dependent child or grandchild, attend an Indiana college or university, major in a law enforcement field, and enroll as a full-time student (12 hours).
Applications for the scholarships are available from your high school counselor, the sheriff’s office at 1400 Pioneer, Plymouth. The scholarship application can also be downloaded from the Indiana Sheriff’s Association website: https://indianasheriffd.org/programs/scholarship-program/ The applications must be completed and received by the Indiana Sheriff’s Association on or before April 1.

Average gasoline prices in Indiana have risen 17.3 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $2.80/g

today, according to GasBuddy’s survey of 3,271 stations in Indiana. Prices in Indiana remain unchanged compared to a month ago and are 29.8 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average cost of diesel has decreased 1.0 cents compared to a week ago and stands at $3.465 per gallon.

The lowest prices around the area:
In Pulaski County
•Winamac $2.89
•Francisville $2.89
•Medaryville $2.85
•Monteray $2.99

In Starke County
•Knox $2.79
•North Judson $2.85
•Hamlet $2.59
•Grovertown $2.79

In LaPorte County
•Hanna $2.79
•LaCrosse $2.84
•LaPorte $2.80
•Michigan City $2.71
•Wanatah $2.89
•Rolling Prairie $2.85
•Westville $2.74
•New Carlisle $2.87
•North Liberty $2.80
•Walkerton $2.65

Marshall County
•Argos $2.89
•Bourbon $2.64
•Bremen $2.74
•Culver $2.95
•Plymouth $2.69
•Koontz Lake $2.89

According to GasBuddy price reports, the cheapest station in Indiana was priced at $2.34/g yesterday, while the most expensive was $3.19/g, a difference of 85.0 cents per gallon.
The national average price of gasoline has risen 3.1 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $2.76/g today.
“After seven straight weeks of declines, the national average price of gasoline has moved higher, breaking the streak as oil prices have climbed back near $60 per barrel after dipping into the mid-$50s,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. “There’s still a window of opportunity to revisit—or even beat—recent gas price lows, but that window will begin to close soon. California will soon start transitioning back to cleaner summer gasoline, with most of the rest of the country following in a little over a month. However, with a surplus of winter gasoline built up after large inventory increases in recent weeks, we’re likely to see localized discounts as that fuel is cleared from the system before the seasonal rise becomes more organized in the weeks ahead.”
GasBuddy is North America’s trusted fuel savings platform, helping consumers fuel up for less for over 25 years at GasBuddy.com.

ARGOS — The Argos School Board will hold a pair of meeting Tuesday, Jan. 20 bginning at 7 p.m. in the

Dragon Center Conference Room.
The first will be a public hearing regarding the tenth amendment to the lease for the 2026 building projects and approval of the resolution assigning a portion of the construction bids and contracts to the Building Corporation, and the first supplement to the master continuing disclosure undertaking.
Immediately following, the school board will hold its regular monthly meeting.

PLYMOUTH — On Jan. 18 at 7:44 p.m., Officers with the Plymouth Police Department were dispatched to

Walmart for a harassment complaint.
The caller advised that there was a person in the store harassing two different staff members. When officers arrived, they were advised that a man had grabbed two different employees while they were doing their jobs in different areas of the store.
Walmart showed officers a picture of the man, and he was identified as Trake Gibson, 18 years old, of Akron. The officer knew who the man was because other officers were investigating him at that moment for OWI. Both female staff members identified the man and gave the same description.
At the time Officers were taking statements at Walmart, Plymouth Police were notified of a vehicle that had slid off the roadway on Highway 30. While speaking with the driver of the vehicle, officers were able to detect a strong odor of alcohol coming from the driver.
After further investigation, Gibson was transported and lodged into the Marshall County Jail, and charged with Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated, Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated-Endangerment, and Illegal Consumption of an Alcoholic Beverage.
Additional Charges were added to Gibson for Felony Sexual Battery.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

PLYMOUTH — Marshall County Sheriff Matt Hassel has released the monthly jail report for December.

The average daily population for December was 124 out of a total number of 233 beds. Of those, 84 were men, and 20 were women.

A total of 73 were pre-trial inmates, 15 were sentenced inmates, and 15 were serving felony charges.
The top ten offenses for December were:

• Failure to Appear (27)
• Operating While Intoxicated (24)
• Possession of Marijuana (16)
• Operator Never Licensed (14)
• Driving While Suspended (11)
• Domestic Battery (7)
• Theft (7)
• Possession of Paraphernalia (6)
• Possession of Cocaine/Narcotic (5)
• Intimidation (5)
  The total number of active warrants in the county is 1309. The Sheriff’s Department responded to 1310 calls.
  The Sheriff’s department made 70 arrests in the month. Plymouth Police made 49, Bremen police 5, Bourbon and Culver made 4.

ARGOS — On Jan. 10 at 7:08 p.m., Marshall County Central Dispatch received a crash detection at the

intersection of US 31 and SR 10.
Officers found a two-vehicle accident. A Honda Odyssey driven by Juan P. Ramirez-Ramos had rear-ended a Subaru Crosstrek driven by Megan K. Walters.
Ramirez-Ramos was taken to the hospital to be evaluated. Walters denied treatment at the scene.
Agencies involved were the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department, Argos Police, Argos EMS, and Fire.

PLYMOUTH — On Jan. 8,​ around 12:21 a.m.,​ Marshall County Deputies stopped a gray Chrysler

passenger car on Michigan Road at 5C Road for swerving all over the roadway.
The driver,​ Alec M. Brown, 31, of South Bend, was found to have been drinking. After some field sobriety tests, Brown agreed to a certified test. He was taken to the hospital for a ​blood draw, where it was found that Brown was over four times the legal limit.
He was arrested and taken to the Marshall County Jail, where he was charged and booked for felony OWI,​ due to a prior conviction within seven years.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

CULVER — The Culver Lions Club and the Culver Community Council of Churches are sponsoring a Chili

Supper on Friday, Jan. 23, at the Culver Depot from 4:30 to 7 p.m.
The dinner features the Lion’s famous chili, and a freewill offering will be taken at the door in place of a ticket, with all the proceeds going to the Culver Food Pantry.

PLYMOUTH — The Marshall County Emergency Management Agency has dropped Marshall County to a

“Travel Advisory” effective immediately.
On Wednesday, a Travel Advisory was upgraded to a Travel Watch due to rapidly deteriorating conditions under an intense lake effect snow band. Conditions have improved, warranting a change of travel status back to Advisory.
There are multiple snow chances over the next few days, including later today. A few slick spots and drifts linger from Wednesday’s event as well. As a precaution, EMA has decided to keep the Advisory in place.
A Travel Advisory is the lowest level of local travel restrictions. It means that routine travel or activities may be restricted in areas because of hazardous situations, and individuals should use caution or avoid those areas.