Nappanee Advance-News, Volume 120, Number 49, Nappanee, Elkhart County, 3 December 1997 — Page 7

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SHARE HOLIDAY SPlßlT—Nappanee Rotarians shared their holiday spirit with mental health patients by presenting a donation to Bonnie Hochstetler, center, local chairperson for the Elkhart County Mental

SPECIAL ACTIVITIES — Students at Nappanee Elementary School shared Thanksgiving activities with each other and parents, prior to Thanksgiving break, In the photo at top, Anita Ward's second grade class presents "Hooray for Thanksgiving,' a play about the first Thanksgiving celebration. At bottom, Mr. McGowen's fifth grade students offer their version of "The Meaning of Thanksgiving Day.'(AN photos by Teresa Hamsher)

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INDOT maintenance year-round chore

While people check woolly worms and persimmons to gauge the severity of upcoming winter weather, the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) is preparing for whatever Mother Nature will bring this winter. “INDOT has budgeted $25 million to keep its 11,300-mile highway network open and as safe as possible during winter storms; but for INDOT, snow removal isn’t just a winter operation, it is a yearround process,” said INDOT Commissioner Curtis A. Wiley. Crews must first evaluate their efforts from the previous winter. During the spring, INDOT crews must use data from the previous winter in order to replenish their stock of materials, such as salt and sand, in preparation for the next year. In 1996-97, INDOT spent $26 million on snow removal. This figure represents human resources, equipment and materials. During the summer, INDOT’s 1,000-truck fleet is repainted and repaired if necessary, and new equipment arrives. Old, depreciated equipment is sold at public auctions. Drivers are trained, and materials are replenished. In the fall, crews complete inspections of equipment using a group of seasoned mechanics from throughout their district who will inspect over 1,000 trucks representing 117 unit sites all over Indiana. The mechanics inspect the cab and body condition, electrical and hydraulic systems, as well as the engine and power train. Each computerized snow truck is also calibrated by a trained mechanic after the inspection. This calibration affects the distribution of materials during a storm. These on-board computers adjust the dispersal of materials so that, as the truck slows down, distribution of salt/calcium chloride slows down as well, for instance. As new trucks are purchased, this new technology is incorporated. The same trucks used to patch potholes and conduct other summer maintenance activities are used in winter maintenance. For the inspections, as before a snowstorm, each truck is fitted with a plow and a materials spreader. When crews learn about an upcoming storm, this mobilization.

Health Association Christmas Gift Drive. Making the presentation were Rotary President John Moore, left, and Becky Lehman, right. Community Service Chairperson. (AN photo by Teresa Hamsher)

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from dump truck to snow truck takes less than a half hour. Another very important factor is the development of snow plow routes. These routes are developed by a computer system called CASPER (Computer Aided System for Planning Efficient Routes). This system was a joint development with Purdue University and INDOT, creating a computerized system that works to increase efficiency by reducing the number of routes, minimizing nonservice travel time, and ensuring that routes receive appropriate coverage based on traffic volume. INDOT continues to make route improvements each year. After everything is prepared, crews must have the most accurate and easy-to-use technology to predict storms. INDOT crews use the Data Transmission Network (DTN) which provides real-time weather information with a regional, detailed or local perspective. When a storm is predicted, the subdistrict manager and operation unit foreman alert their crews to be on call. Prior to the beginning of an expected storm, INDOT may deploy several trucks to monitor activity in case of sudden changes in the weather, or they may begin pre-wetting roads in extremely cold conditions. Once precipitation begins, crews can begin to apply materials. On some of its fleet, INDOT uses truck-mounted pavement sensors—devices which use infrared light to detect pavement temperatures. They help drivers determine exactly when and what type of materials should be used. Driving a snow plow can be a frustrating and scary task. Weighing approximately 20 tons and being 12-feet tall, the trucks

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seem a formidable tool in fighting bad weather. When ice creates treacherous driving conditions, and high winds blow snow into the driver’s view, the trucks require tremendous skill and courage to operate. These conditions or motorists driving too quickly, can force the snow truck from the road. Motorists driving too fast for conditions can lose control, compromising the driver’s safety. This is tragic not only to the driver, but to those on the route whose roadplowing must be delayed. Motorists should always allow plenty of space near the trucks, and avoid passing whenever possible. Truck route take approximately two hours to cover. Winds as low as lOmph can undo the driver’s hard work within that time. INDOT will continue working until the storm has passed and the roads are clear. “We have jurisdiction over thousands of miles of highway, and maintaining these roads in a winter storm is no small task,” said Commissioner Wiley. “Folklore winter predictions may work for some, but INDOT uses technology, expertise and hard work in our snow removal process.”

New books available at Library The following new books have been added to the shelves at the Nappanee Public Library, and are now available for your reading pleasure. ADULT FICTION Timequake, by Vonnegut—a glitch of space and time zaps the world back 10 years, and everyone must live their lives in exactly the same manner as before for 10 years, but at the end of that time, after living like robots of the past, no one is able to exercise free will. Stone Angel, by O’Connell—on her return to a small Louisiana town to discover the circumstances surrounding her mother’s death, a New York policewoman finds something better left buried, in this novel of suspense. Temple of the Winds, by Goodkind —to save his world from a power-made emperor, a young hero must find the Temple of the Winds, in Book 4 of the Sword of Truth fantasy. Behold the Fire, by Salinger—the return of a long-missing soldier from the Cambodian jungle shakes the citadels of power in Washington, and sends strangers on a desperate journey. Underworld, by DeLillo —-this story of the lives of two people parallels the American culture of the second half of the twentieth century. Amber Beach, by Lowell—in search of answers to the disappearance of her brother with a fortune in stolen amber, a businesswoman heads to the Pacific Northwest, where she and a guide she mistrusts set off on a sea journey into intrigue and danger. Flower Net, by See —a Chinese cop and an American attorney pair up to uncover the deadly conspiracy of Chinese gangs, government, and big business that lies behind a series of high-profile murders. Air Force One, by Collins—based on the screenplay for the film. The Angel of Darkness, by Carr —a team of investigators searching for the kidnapped infant of a Spanish diplomat is led to a shocking suspect —a woman who appears to be a heroic nurse and a loving mother, {>ut who may really be a ruthless murderer of children. Hard Evidence, by Lescroart —a lawyer is hired as defense counsel for a man charged with the murder of a billionaire, a case in which he had been the prosecutor in a previous trial, in this San Francisco courtroom drama. A Dry Spell, by Moloney—a rainmaker summoned to a small North Dakota town in the grip of a killing drought, encounters a sinister force beneath the earth that he must battle for the soul of the town. The Shadow Matrix, by Bradley—the heir to the family domain in the fantasy world of Darkover discovers that she possesses a rare power as she faces challenges beyond her wildest imaginings. Larry’s Party, by Shields—this novel follows the life of a young floral designer through the seventies, eighties and the nineties, in his search for self. ADULT NON-FICTION Notorious, by Spoto—a biography of actress Ingrid Bergman. The Cliff Walk, by Snyder—an English professor’s story of losing a long-time job and finding anew way of seeing the world. A Tender Road Home, by Luchsinger—the story of how

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Nappanee Advance News Wednesday, Dcemihw 3,1)W

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ENCHANTING STORY—Vickie Hunsberger, owner of the Victorian Guest House, is poised with a good book to entertain her guests. Perhaps she is reading "The Christmas Story,' a page from the "Night Before Christmas,' or just maybe an endearing page from "A Cup of Christmas Tea.' Whatever the incantation she appears lost in a world of enchantment and wonder. Look for these selections and a host of other books with Christmas spirit at the Nappanee Public Library A good book can put the animation and awe of childhood back into the holiday for even the eldest member of the family. (AN photo by Merrie Chapman)

faith in God healed a marriage crippled by anger and abuse. Grandmothers Are Like Snowflakes —No T\vo Are Alike,

TEACHER ERRORS Due to teacher record-keeping errors, these North Wood High School students were not properly acknowledged for achieving the honor roll status during the first grading period of the first semester. North Wood High School wishes to recognize their updated honor roll status: GPA of 4.o—Corinne Neff. Honor Roll (GPA of 3.20 to 3.65) —Aaron Gall.

TODDLER CRAFTS In the rush of the holidays, buying gift items can become a chore. But at the Nappanee Public Library’s Toddler Time, making gifts can be fun. December 4-11-18, 6:30-7p.m., you and your 2-3-year-old can make wrapping paper, a sand art frame with photo, and a snow globe for unique Christmas gifts. You will also enjoy stories, music and games. Please register at the library, or call 219-773-7919 right away. Bring your child or grandchild, your love of fun, and an empty baby food jar for the snow globe.

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Look who’s going to be 50, Dec. 7th. She has “Rosie” cheeks.

by Lanese—humorous and heartwarming observations. Chicken Soup For the Christian S.oul —stories to rekindle the spirit. The Financially Confident Woman, by Hunt —the founder of Cheapskate Monthly tells the tale of her long journey back from the brink of financial disaster, explains how to avoid the hidden dangers of credit cards, and tells how to turn bad financial habits around. End the Struggle and Dance With Life, by Jeffers—how to build yourself up when the world gets you down. Book of Bad Songs, by Barry—a compilation of the worst songs ever written, with witty commentary. The Secret to Tender Pie, by Marin —America’s grandmothers share their favorite recipes. Birdfeeding 101, by Mallery—everything you need to know about backyard birdfeeding, in a funny, folksy style. p Christmas Miracles—true stories of modern-day miracles.

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WHISKERVILLE TRUCKERS Meeting Saturday - December 13 IPM Nappanee VFW Post Nomination & Election of 1998 Officers

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