The Winfield Community Foundation has recently formed, brought to life by Town Council President James Hicks.

"This foundation will help mold and shape the town for many years to come," said Hicks, who served many years on a foundation for Bishop Noll Institute in Hammond. Hicks hosted a social event held last Sunday at Doubletree Clubhouse. The gathering was attended by most of the Town Council members, spouses, and members of the new foundation board.

Members were chosen by the Town Council and voted upon. They are: Debbie Bult, Rob Bult, Kathy Hruby, Mel Kemp, Mitre Kutanovski, Al Leach, Jerry Steiner, Carla Susson and Dr. Annette Williamson.

Town Council member Rob Bult will serve as liaison between the Town Council and the foundation. Bill Enslen, town attorney, will also serve as attorney for the foundation.

Members will be seeking funds from the private sector to help support community parks, walking paths, bike trails, senior events and more. An organizational meeting will be held in August and members will meet at least once a month. Congratulations to all of the new members.

School registration

It's the dog days of summer, and also time to register children for the 2008-09 school year. Registration at Winfield Elementary School will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. and from 1 to 3 p.m. today and Monday.

Parents of new students need to bring in their child's original birth certificate, immunization records, Social Security number and proof of residency by presenting a driver's license and a utility bill. Registration fees are: kindergarten - $92, first grade - $171, and second grade, $196.

More registration news

While on the subject of school registration, lets not forget Porter Lakes School.

Registration days for returning students are from 9 a.m. to noon and 2 to 6 p.m. Wednesday.

For students new to the school, registration day is from 8 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 5 p.m. Thursday.

Parents of new students need to furnish their child's birth certificate, immunization records, and proof of residency.

Book rental and fees, as well as the $500 first installment for all-day kindergarten tuition, is due at registration. Book rental fees are: kindergarten - $53, all-day kindergarten - $55, first grade - $111, second grade - $127, third grade - $115, fourth grade - $114, and fifth grade - $118.

Chipping day is Tuesday

It was brought to my attention that the Town of Winfield chipping day is Tuesday, not the day I reported last week.

Mulch is available at any time at the government center on Randolph Street, however, there is no one on site to assist, so residents will need to bring their own containers and shovels.

Do you have a special occasion to brag about or news in your neighborhood? Let me know and I will share it with the community. Call (219) 895-6528, or e-mail JimmyGems@aol.com. Opinions expressed are solely those of the writer.