Keep your little monsters safe while they’re out trick-or-treating this Halloween! As they fill their bags with goodies, make sure they’re visible and aware of their surroundings.
For drivers, it’s especially important to be cautious on Halloween night. Check out the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s tips for a safe Halloween at NHTSA.gov/Halloween-Safety-Tips.
[Image: Halloween safety tips and reminders]
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Pendleton, IN – Two critically endangered tortoises stolen from the Indianapolis Zoo have been found safe in Pendleton — just minutes from Lapel — after nearly two weeks missing.
Pendleton police say the tortoises were discovered around 4:00 p.m. Tuesday inside a cardboard box near the museum walkway at Falls Park. A note referencing the Indianapolis Zoo was taped to the box. Officers confirmed the tortoises’ identities through microchip scans and contacted zoo officials immediately.
“We’re incredibly relieved and grateful to everyone who helped bring these animals home safely,” said an Indianapolis Zoo spokesperson. “Their recovery is a huge win for conservation and community awareness.”
The recovered animals include an Egyptian tortoise and a Northern Spider tortoise — both listed as critically endangered species. Zoo officials believe the theft occurred between October 11 and October 12, 2025. Each tortoise was microchipped for identification, and the Egyptian tortoise has a distinct scar on its underside that helped confirm its identity.
Authorities have not released any suspect information at this time. The case remains under investigation by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department with assistance from the FBI and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact local law enforcement.
While the theft occurred in Indianapolis, the fact that the animals were found in Pendleton — less than ten minutes from Lapel — has brought the story close to home. Local residents in Madison County have expressed both relief and pride in how quickly authorities acted.
This incident also highlights how small-town vigilance and awareness can play a big role in protecting wildlife. The Falls Park discovery underscores that conservation isn’t just a global issue — it’s something that can happen right here in our own backyards.
The tortoises are now back under the care of the Indianapolis Zoo, where they will undergo health checks before being reintroduced to their exhibit. Zoo staff say they will continue reviewing security measures to prevent future incidents.
Firefighters from the Lapel Stony Creek Township Fire Territory spent the day at Lapel Middle School, teaching 8th grade students crucial fire safety lessons. The students learned how to properly use a fire extinguisher, including when and how to operate it. They also discovered the different classes of fires and how to handle each one safely.
The importance of working smoke detectors in every home was emphasized, as well as the life-saving benefits of sleeping with bedroom doors closed. Students even got to experience what it’s like to be inside a smoke-filled room and learned how to react safely in such situations. Additionally, they learned how to recognize and prevent electrical hazards around the house.
The goal of this fire prevention education is to ensure every student knows how to stay safe and help protect their families from fire emergencies. Thanks to the partnership with Lapel Middle School, the community is now safer and more informed. A huge thank you to Lapel Middle School for collaborating with the fire department to make this possible.
#FireSafety #CommunityEducation #LapelFire #FirePreventionWeek #SafetyFirst #LapelMiddleSchool
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Happy National First Responders Day! 🚑🚓 We’re taking a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to the brave men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving our communities. Your courage, commitment, and compassion make a tangible difference every single day, and today, we’re celebrating you. ❤️ From all of us at the Lapel Stony Creek Township Fire Territory, we thank you for your selfless service. #NationalFirstRespondersDay #ThankYouFirstResponders #LapelStonyCreekFire
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It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Retired Fire Chief Kurt Kahl, a devoted public servant who left an indelible mark on our community. Chief Kahl’s remarkable career with the Pendleton Fire Department spanned four decades, beginning in 1963. He rose through the ranks, becoming Fire Chief in 1985 after the retirement of Chief Ralph Miller, and went on to faithfully serve our community for 18 years until his retirement in 2003.
Throughout his distinguished career, Chief Kahl was guided by a simple yet powerful motto: “Will thirty seconds make a difference?” This phrase encapsulated his unwavering commitment to readiness, service, and the value of every moment. His selfless dedication to the fire service and our community has inspired countless individuals, and his legacy will continue to be felt for years to come.
As we mourn the loss of this exceptional individual, funeral arrangements are currently pending. During this difficult time, we ask that you keep Chief Kahl’s family in your thoughts and prayers, offering them the support and comfort they need.
Respectfully,
Chief Chris Nodine
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As Halloween week approaches, neighborhoods will see an increase in pedestrians on sidewalks and streets, especially after dark. With children often wearing dark costumes and darting between houses without warning, it’s crucial for drivers to exercise extra caution. Reducing speed in residential areas and being vigilant for trick-or-treaters can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
Parents and guardians can also play a vital role in ensuring their kids’ safety by incorporating reflective materials into their costumes and providing them with flashlights. These simple precautions can greatly enhance visibility and help prevent accidents. By working together, we can create a safer environment for everyone.
For additional resources and tips on pedestrian safety, visit on.in.gov/Halloween. Let’s prioritize #PedestrianSafetyMonth and #HalloweenSafety to ensure a fun and secure experience for all, especially on our roads, where #RoadSafety is paramount.
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The Lapel Stony Creek Township Fire Territory recently spent the day at Lapel Elementary School, providing fire safety and public education to students of all ages. Every class, from Pre-K to 5th grade, received a personalized, age-appropriate lesson on fire safety, emergency awareness, and how to respond in case of an emergency.
The firefighters loved interacting with the students, answering their thoughtful questions, and helping them become Fire Safety Heroes. The kids were engaged and enthusiastic throughout the lessons, making the experience even more rewarding for the firefighters.
A huge thank you goes out to the teachers and staff at Lapel Elementary for welcoming the Lapel Stony Creek Township Fire Territory into their school. The students’ excitement and participation made the day truly special, and the firefighters appreciate the opportunity to have made a positive impact on their lives.
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As harvest season gets underway, Hoosiers can expect to see more large farm equipment on the roadways. With farmers working hard to bring in their crops, it’s not uncommon to encounter combines and tractors making slow and wide left turns. Be sure to stay alert and exercise caution when driving this fall, as these vehicles can be unpredictable and require extra space to maneuver.
If you’re unsure about how to safely share the road with farm equipment, check out these helpful tips: bit.ly/3Rd2ZXf. By being mindful of these vehicles and taking the necessary precautions, we can all do our part to ensure a safe and successful harvest season. #Harvest25 #SafeHarvestIN
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Halloween is a time for fun costumes, glowing pumpkins, and creative decorations – but safety should always be the top priority. To ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween, consider the following essential tips:
* Use glow sticks or battery-operated candles in pumpkins and decorations to minimize the risk of fires.
* Provide children with flashlights or glow sticks while trick-or-treating to help them navigate through the darkness.
* Teach children to stay away from open flames, including jack-o’-lanterns with candles, to prevent accidents.
* Keep decorations away from heat sources such as light bulbs and heaters to reduce the risk of fires.
By taking these simple steps, you can help create a safe and enjoyable Halloween experience for everyone. For more information on Halloween safety, visit nfpa.org/halloween.
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🏈#IHSAA PLAYOFF…
Get ready for an exciting matchup as the Lapel Bulldogs take on the Winchester Community Golden Falcons! The 2025 IHSAA Football Playoff (Class 1A – 6A) is underway, and the Winchester Community varsity football team is set to host Lapel (IN) in a home playoff game. You can catch all the action online by streaming the game at bit.ly/IHSAA-tv2025.
The game is scheduled for Friday, October 24, with kick-off at 7p. If you’re planning to attend in person, tickets will be available for purchase at the school gate. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to cheer on your favorite team! 🏈
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