Bloomfield News Blog

Monday, August 31, 2009
By Mark Stalcup, Staff Writer
Greene County Daily World

Potentially deep cuts in the proposed 2010 budget could force trims of about a tenth of the proposed $17.9 million the Greene County Council must consider next week.

Altogether, about $1.8 million may need to be slashed from the proposed budget, council members were told by by accountant Steven Dyson.

The projections allow department heads and county officials a week to determine where the cuts could occur.

Hardest hit were the county’s General Fund, where $8.15 million is budgeted and only about $7.4 million projected.

Also facing deep cuts, the County Motor Vehicle and Highway Department, where about $900,000 more is sought than the $3.454 million projected, per the discussion.

“I just turned in this budget on the first of July,” Greene County Highway Superintendent Mike Hennette. “Now, it’s the end of August, and you’re telling me we have to make some pretty deep cuts.”

Hennette said his crews work four days a week, nine hours a day, in a department that’s dropped from 47 workers to 39 in recent years.

“That’s tough,” he said. “You have people out there working at the Highway Department crews who are living paycheck to paycheck.”

Dyson also told the council the 2009 Local Roads and Streets Funds was about $300,000. While $477,000 has been requested for 2010, accounting projections urge the total budget be kept at the 2009 numbers, forcing a cut of $177,000.

The grim financial projections, presented by Dyson during Monday’s council session, now must consider possible methods to raise revenues in the future.

Budget considerations will begin Sept. 8. The projections provided Monday give council members

One option would be adding an Economic Development Income Tax to the County Option Income Tax (COIT).

Whether the tax can be added this year even if council members wish it, remains to be seen.

Typically, Aug. 1 is the deadline for the imposition of new taxes, and Dyson is uncertain whether an extension has been granted.

That tax can be imposed at a rate of one-quarter-of-one-percent. Presently, the COIT is set at one percent of income.

As an alternative, the county could also impose a Property Tax Relief Local Option Income Tax (LOIT) as part of property tax relief, which would be imposed in conjunction with a Public Safety LOIT.

Both of those taxes can still be imposed if passed by the county up until Nov. 1. However, if they are passed, the county must concurrently approve what effectively amounts to a freeze on the maximum property tax levy for its governmental units.

The Property Tax LOIT can amount to up to 1 percent of income.

That tax would mean the county substitutes revenues once gained from property taxes to income taxes, Dyson said, so there would be no increased taxes, only a shift.

The Public Safety LOIT can impose one-quarter of one percent.

Dyson said it could potentially free up some of the General Fund’s revenues by allowing additional funds to pay for public safety.

For example, he said the Greene County Jail’s operating expenses could be paid by the projected $900,000 the tax could raise annually.

“This definitely gives us something to think about,” said County Council President John Wilkes.

Councilman Ed Cullison concurred.

“This is something we’re going to have to face, whether we like it or not.”

Also Monday, County Coroner Brian Gainey successfully sought $5,000 in additional appropriations, after four deaths which required autopsies nearly emptied his funds.

The additional appropriation covers the cost of the four autopsies, Gainey said, and should keep his budget covered through December.

Monday, August 31, 2009
Greene County Daily World

Two people were airlifted to hospitals following a serious accident involving one vehicle on State Road 54 near Ridgeport in eastern Greene County Sunday afternoon.

The driver, Jeremy S. Browning, 31, Bloomington, was transported by AirEvac to Wishard Hospital in Indianapolis with internal injuries and injury to his left leg and both arms.

Nine-year-old McKenzie Browning, who was a passenger, was transported by AirEvac to Riley Hospital in Indianapolis with injuries to the face and left leg.

Around 3 p.m., Jeremy Browning was driving a red 1993 Chevrolet S-10 pickup truck eastbound on SR 54 approaching the location of Honeysuckle Primitives when the truck left the road for an unknown reason.

Greene County Sheriff’s Deputy Eric S. Smith reported that the truck traveled off the south side of the roadway, struck a fence post and then hit a tree head-on, coming to rest on all four wheels.

Besides personnel from the Greene County Sheriff’s Department, the Indiana State Police, Greene County Ambulance Service and the Center Township Fire Department (CFD) also responded to the scene.

CFD Assistant Fire Chief Jeremy Inman reported both occupants were trapped inside the vehicle.

“Upon arrival, we found a 1993 Chevy S-10 head-on into a tree,” said Inman. “Both occupants were trapped inside of the vehicle. CFD extricated both patients from the vehicle and assisted the Greene County Ambulance Service with loading the patients into two AirEvac helicopters.”

According to Inman, the extrication lasted approximately 25 minutes.

SR 54 was closed for approximately an hour and 45 minutes following the crash.

Details on the accident were not released Sunday until family members of the victims had been notified — and were not released until late Monday because officers were unable to locate one significant family member of one of the victims.

Monday, August 31, 2009
By Anna Rochelle, Staff Writer
Greene County Daily World

Monday, August 31, 2009
Greene County Daily World

(Submitted photo) FIRE SCENE: This garage in Center Township, owned by Mike Livingston, was destroyed by fire Sunday morning.

On Sunday at approximately 11:10 am, Center Township Fire Department was dispatched to a fully involved garage fire in rural Springsville.

“Upon arrival we found a pole barn style garage containing a car and other tools and equipment. The fire was quickly extinguished, but the garage and contents were a total loss,” assistant fire chief Jeremy Inman stated.

The garage was owned by Mike Livingston of R.R. 1 Springville. It was located on County Road 175S off of State Road 45 in Center Township.

CTFD was assisted at the scene by Eastern and Owensburg Fire Department, and the Greene County Ambulance Service.

The fire was started by subjects working on the car inside of the garage.

Monday, August 31, 2009
By Anna Rochelle, Staff Writer
Greene County Daily World

A woman who denied “keying” a truck in broad daylight in downtown Linton will be summoned to appear in court on a preliminary charge of criminal mischief — several people told police they witnessed the incident.

Arretta Hubble allegedly scratched the truck of her ex-boyfriend on July 9.

Linton Police Officer Debbie McDonald was dispatched to the Palace Bar around 4:15 p.m. that day and spoke to a man who said Hubble came into the bar yelling at him.

He reported she then left the bar and went to his truck, got in it and took out lottery tickets so he walked out and locked it.

He said she then scratched the driver’s side of his truck with keys and yelled some more before driving off in another vehicle.

The officer took pictures of the damage to the front fender, the door and rear quarter panel.

Then she spoke with an employee at the bar and two employees at a nearby bank — all said they witnessed the incident and saw Hubble scratch the truck with the keys.

According to a probable cause affidavit, when Hubble was interviewed at the police department, she admitted going into the bar and yelling at the man, embarrassing him in front of his friends, but she denied scratching the truck.

The charge was filed against Hubble in Greene Superior Court. Criminal mischief is a class A misdemeanor.

Monday, August 31, 2009
By Mark Stalcup, Staff Writer
Greene County Daily World

(Submitted photo) TO PLAY SATURDAY AT MUSIC FEST: The local band Shockwave will play at the annual Linton Music Fest on Saturday at 6 p.m. Band members are (front, from left) Brent Yeryar, Jeff Wilson, Derek Ellerbe; and (back) Steve Morin.

Linton’s Shockwave proves reunion tours aren’t just for classic rock acts like Van Halen.

The band began in 1988 with a group of teenagers who broke up three years later.

Seventeen years after that 1991 split, the band, now in their 30s, decided to try again.

“Basically, what it was, was we went out and saw a few bands, and thought we could do what they were doing,” said Steve Morin, the band’s bassist. “We were getting older, and felt like we all needed another hobby.”

About a year later, Shockwave’s already performed 45 shows, and are veterans of the Linton Music Fest, making their first appearance in 2008. They’ll make their second appearance at 6 p.m. Saturday.

Shockwave’s first CD, the appropriately titled “Second Time Around” is on sale for $6 at their Web site, www. shockwaverox.com. They are midway through recording their second record, slated for release next spring.

The band focused on original material at last year’s festival. This year, Morin said the band plans more covers of party-friendly music that’s been the band’s staple since it started.

However, they may mix in one or two original songs.

“Since we started, we’ve tried to implement songs that are good party music,” Morin said, adding the band covers artists like Kiss, Kid Rock, Poison and Def Leppard. “Everything we play is a good party song.”

Their own sound aims to combine 1980s hair metal with newer guitar riffs and sing-along choruses, Morin said, inspired by bands like Nickelback and Three Doors Down.

Reuniting didn’t come without some changes. The band’s presently composed of Morin, guitarist Jeff Wilson, lead guitarist Derek Ellerbe, and drummer Brent Yeryar.

“We all sing,” Morin said.

Brian Figg, who founded the band with Morin, and Morin’s brother Mike both left the act due to the time constraints, Steve Morin said.

“We all have jobs, so it’s hard to travel around much,” he said, adding the band hopes to enlist a booking agent soon and perhaps open for larger acts.

“Right now, we’re booked through the end of the year,” appearing at venues like Linton’s Bottom’s Up and Sullivan’s Diamond Barbeque.

The band’s also proud to represent Linton to other regional acts at the Music Fest.

“There aren’t nearly as many local bands around Linton as there were 15 years ago,” Morin said.

Monday, August 31, 2009
Greene County Daily World

Cake decorating class

As the first in a series of classes and seminars to help patrons save money with creative activities, the Linton Public Library will have a Cake Decorating class on Sept. 15 at 6 p.m. There is a fee of $8 to cover the cost of the decorating tools and cake that participants will take home. Faye Terry, instructor, will share many tips and tricks to decorate beautiful cakes for any occasion. This class is limited to 20 and reservations must be placed by Sept. 14 (847-7802).

‘Going Local Week’

The Linton Public Library will participate in “Going Local Week” by having a baking contest Sept. 8. Rules and entry form may be found on the Web site at www.lintonpl.lib.in.us or in the Library. Entry forms must be turned in by Sept. 5 with entries being turned in on Sept. 8 before 5:30 p.m. Participants must be present to win and one prize will be awarded in each of the two categories: (desserts/breads) or (appetizers/casseroles). Participants may enter only one item and it must contain at least one ingredient grown or raised in Indiana.

Youth art contest

The Linton Public Library’s Youth Art Contest for ages 13-19 will take place again this year during the Linton Music Fest. Rules and application form can be found online at www.lintonpl.lib.in.us or in the library. All items must be turned in by Friday at 5 p.m. Works will be on display Saturday and Sunday with prizes awarded on Sept. 6.

Greene County Singles

The Greene County Singles will hold a dance and dinner Saturday at the Greene County Extension Building at Switz City. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m., dance from 8- 11 p.m. Admission is $5 with a food item, $6 with a 2 liter soda or $7 empty-handed. For more information call 825-4032.

Book sales at Bloomfield Library

The 2009 Friends of the Library Annual Book Sale will be Sept. 3-6. The sale will be in the lower lobby of the Bloomfield-Eastern Greene County Public Library. Sept. 3 is the “Members Only” preview sale from 2- 8 p.m. and memberships will be available at the door. Sept. 4-5 the sale goes from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sept. 6 the sale starts at 1:30 p.m. and goes until cleanup at 4 p.m. There will be specials each day of the sale.

Nine Mile homecoming

The Nine Mile United Methodist Church will observe homecoming Sept. 13 in the new sanctuary. The day will begin with Sunday School at 9 a.m. and morning worship at 10:30 a.m. A carry-in meal will follow at noon. The afternoon program, will be at 2 p.m. and include special music and congregational singing.

Beasley-Sims reunion

The annual Beasley-Sims reunion will be Sept. 13 at the Raglesville Park with a meal at noon.

Ham and bean dinner

An all-you-can eat ham and bean dinner will be from 4-8 p.m. Saturday at the Wright Township Firehouse in Midland. Adults eat for $5 and children under 5 years of age eat free. Tickets available at the door or from any choir member. This event is sponsored by the Shakamak Jr./Sr. High School Choral Department.

Bedwell reunion

The descendants of Claude and Sarah Bedwell will hold a family reunion Sept. 12 at the Linton shelter house. Please bring a covered dish and table ware.

Fellowship Baptist ‘Round-up’

Have you been wandering around looking for a church to call home? Fellowship Baptist Church, located on the corner of 15th Street NW and Price Road near Linton, would like to welcome you to its “Round Up” on Sunday. Sunday school starts at 9:15 with doughnuts, coffee and a time of fellowship. Worship service begins at 10:30.

Scotland Festival set for Sept. 19

The 45th Annual Scotland Festival will be Sept. 19.

The schedule:

7 a.m. — Breakfast at fire station (biscuits and Gravy, sausage, coffee, juice, milk)

8:30 a.m. — Horseshoe pitching north of barber shop

9 a.m. — Flea markets, crafts, and Scotland Festival stands open; giant inflatables: Giant slide, 5 & 1 Bouncy House, Obstacle Course (furnished by the Army National Guard (all free) — OPEN (next to hotel)

9:30 a.m. — Crowning of Little Mister & Miss Scotland (Music Wagon)

9:45 a.m. — Bret Raper & Brent Townsend (Music Wagon)

10 a.m. — Memorial to Billy Ed Hostettler (Music Wagon); restored Historic Scotland Hotel opens; chainsaw carvings by Jim Lee (Cady Grove)

10:15 a.m. — Lost River Risin’ Bluegrass (Music Wagon)

11:45 a.m. — Bloomfield High School Center Stage & ROTC Color Guard (Music Wagon)

Noon — Silverado (Music Wagon)

1 — DORA! (Hotel); parade line-up (water tower)

1:30 p.m. — parade judging

1:45 p.m. — Rob Feutz and the Storm (Music Wagon)

2:55 p.m. — Awards/winners announced for jar count contest and other raffles

3 — Parade (Main Street)

The giant inflatables will be open for until approximately 5 p.m.

Softball league to meet

The Linton Girls Softball Association will hold a public meeting at 7 p.m. today at the east shelterhouse. The purpose of the meeting is the election of officers and board for the upcoming year. Persons eligible to vote must have had a girl who played softball in our league this past summer.

Worthington Garden Club

Worthington Garden Club will hold a plant sale during the Worthington Yard Sale, Saturday stop by 104 E. Main St. (corner of Main and Edwards) during Worthington Yard Sale for freshly dug starts from members’ gardens. All proceeds go towards beautifying Worthington.

Lyons Building Inspection Department meeting

The Building Inspection Department of the town of Lyons will meet at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 8 at the community building with the intention of discussing several properties that may be in violation of ordinance 1994-3 as it relates to Indiana Code 36-7-9.

Keller reunion

The family of Charlie and Alva Keller will hold a reunion at 1 p.m. Sept. 20 at the Coalmont firehouse. Bring a covered dish and an item for the white elephant auction. Meat, drinks and table service provided. Call 847-2305 for more information.

34th Owensburg Founders Day Festival

The Owensburg Founders Day Festival is Sept. 26. The event includes music, kid’s games, food, flea market and a parade. Vendors are needed. Call 863-4671, 863-7919, 863-2937 or 863-2058.

Bloomfield Cub Scout Pack 468

Bloomfield Cub Pack 468 will host a recruiting night today at the First Baptist Church in Bloomfield (across from the pool). Boys in grades 1-5 are invited to attend with their parents and learn about Cub Scouts. The recruiting night will run from 7-8. There will be information, refreshments, and games. There is a one time fee of $10 to join. If you have any questions, please contact Betty Rush at 384-3357.

Owensburg Cemetery meeting

The annual Owensburg Cemetery Association meeting will be Sept. 13 at the Owensburg Fire Station Community Room at 2 p.m. Elections of officers will be conducted this year. Contact Sandra Hudson 863-7924 if you have any questions.

Trinity Lutheran kickoff

Trinity Lutheran Church, 1759 E. State Road 54 in Linton, will be host a Sunday School Kick-off and Tailgate Party on Sept. 13 (rain date of Sept. 20). Beginning at 11 a.m. will be the program “Teaming up for Jesus.” Come tackle the obstacle course, throw water balloons and learn what part you can play in “Teaming up for Jesus.” A Tailgate Party lunch will begin at 11:45. For more information, call Pastor Joe Faust at 847-7372.

White River Valley Board

The WRV School Board will meet in special session at 8 p.m. on Thursday in the administrative center.

Apple Festival Art, Photo Show

The annual Apple Festival Art-Photography show will be Oct. 2-3 at the Bloomfield-Eastern Greene Public Library. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library, entries may be brought in Oct. 1 from 2:30 to 8 p.m. Judging will be Oct. 2. Viewing hours will be 2:30 to 6 p.m. on Oct. 2 and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Oct. 3. For more information go to www.bloomfield.lib.in.us or contact Vera Biery at 384-4644, Betty Jo Stansfield at 384-8344, Cheryl Helms at 825-5004 or Brenda Combs at 825-5058.

Apple Festival queen contestants sought

Application are now being accepted for the Annual Delta Theta Tau Apple Festival Queen Contest. This year the contest will be Sept. 26 at 7 p.m. in the Bloomfield High School cafeteria. Entry forms may be picked up at the high school principal’s office or by contacting Joni Miller at 384-3488 (home) or 384-4325(work). Contestants must be a resident of Greene County for six months, enrolled in a Greene County high school in grades 9 through 12. Entry deadline is Sept. 18.

Jasonville Homecoming deadlines

The Jasonville High School-Shakamak High School Alumni Softball Tournament deadline to form teams is Sept. 12. Also the deadlines for Distinguished Alumni and reservations for the Alumni Banquet are both Sept. 12. Mail all forms to P.O. Box 6, Jasonville, Ind., 47438.

Women’s Democrat Club

The Greene County Women’s Democrat Club will meet today at the Owensburg Fire Department. The dinner will start at 6 p.m. Please bring a covered dish, and the meeting will follow the dinner.

L-S class of 1999

The Linton-Stockton class of 1999 will have its 10-year reunion during homecoming weekend Sept. 26 at 7 p.m. at the Linton Elks Lodge. Cost is $20 per person or $35 per couple. Price covers Elks rental, buffet style dinner and DJ entertainment (cash bar available). Please RSVP by Sept. 5 to Derek and/or Jessica McKee at 847-4290

Wildflower workshop

A wildflower workshop sponsored by the Friends of Goosepond will be at 10 a.m. on Sept. 5 at the Linton Public Library with a free shuttle service from the Bloomfield-Eastern Greene Public Library — which leaves at 9:30 a.m. and returns at 2 p.m. Cost is $15 for the workshop and $15 for the book. The event will last about 3 1/2 hours. Pre-registration is required. Register by e-mailing swilliams@lintonpl.lib.in.us or call the library at 847-7802.

Food pantry fundraiser

The Shelburn Church of God will host its third annual rural motorcycle ride for food Sept. 19 with registration at 9 a.m. An auction is also scheduled for 3 p.m. on Sept. 19. For more information call (812) 251-7429.

Providence church homecoming

Providence Baptist Church will host its homecoming Sept. 13 with a pitch-in dinner to follow at 1:30 p.m.

Linton food program

Effective Sept. 25 the Linton Community and Food Pantry will be the new pick-up point for the share the food program. The pantry will be open from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Bloomfield school calendars

Calendars for the Bloomfield 2009-10 school year containing school events are now available. The pocket calendars are $4 each and the wall calendars are $5 each. The calendars may be purchased during open house today or at Bloomfield State Bank (Main Branch). The proceeds for the calendars will support the BHS 2010 post prom.

2010 Miner discount cards

The 2010 Miner discount cards cost $5 and will be sold at all home football games as well as at American Family Insurance, Shae Lynn, Walters and Grounds Insurance, The Watering Can, Linton Sporting Goods, Angell’s and Regions Linton Shopping Center location. For more information contact Jennifer Ringo 847-8194 or Connie Goodman at 847-7997.

CGCMA To Host Songfest Sunday

The Central Greene County Ministerial Association will host a summer Songfest Sunday at the Bloomfield First Christian Church, 120 West Spring Street. The event, which begins at 7 p.m., will feature special music from the participating CGCMA churches, the singing of favorite hymns, a remembrance of the Rev. Billy Ed Hostettler, and a time for food and fellowship following the service. A free-will offering will be received to support the various ministries and missions of the CGCMA. For more information call 384-8459.

Mineral Christian Men’s Group

The Mineral Christian Men’s Group meets at 8 a.m. every third Saturday of the month at the Mineral Community Building.

Hog roast

Mineral United Methodist Church will host a hog roast Sept. 12. There will be food, music and a parade at 4 p.m.

Camden Thacker reunion

The 84th annual reunion of the descendants of James C. and Rhoda Camden Thacker will be Sept. 7 at the Worthington Park community building with a pitch-in meal at 12:30 p.m.

Scotland Festival Little Miss, Mister

The Scotland Festival is sponsoring a Little Miss and Mister contest for children ages 3-5. To be eligible the child must be at least 3 years old and not more than 5 years old by Aug. 31. Deadline is Aug. 31. Interviews of the children will take place Sept. 14 at the Scotland Hotel and winner will be announced at the festival on Sept. 19. For more information contact Linda Quakenbush at 863-7981 or Janet Merkel at 863-7787.

SHS class of 1967

Shakamak High School 1967 graduates will celebrate turning 60 years old with a dinner/party Sept. 25 at 4 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Shakamak State Park. A catered dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. and the cost for the dinner is $9 per person. Reservations need to be made no later than Sept. 12 by e-mailing either Pat English Strahla at pstrahla@kcpag.com or Doug Stevenson at rdsshakamak@yahoo.com, or by calling Tim Warrick at 847-9856 You may also call Pat at (812) 939-3187. Mail checks to Pat Strahla at 307 W. 7th Street, Clay City, Ind., 47841. Cash will be accepted at the door, but only for reservations made in advance.

Coin Show

The annual Coin Show will be Oct. 17 at the 4-H Building from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Literacy Coalition dinner

The Greene County Literacy Coalition’s annual dinner will be Sept. 22 at 6:30 p.m. at the Saron church in Linton. It will celebrate its 20th annual dinner. It will honor any “founding pioneers” of the program, as well as tutors and learners. Cost of the dinner is $10. Tutors and learners eat free. Please RSVP by Sept. 15 to 384-4125. Guest speaker this year is an associate professor from IU in the second language department who also has an interest in adult literacy issues.

Worthington yard sales

Worthington will have its annual town-wide yard sales event with food vendors Sept. 5. For more information call Jane Padgett at 875-3353.

Greene County Tourism meetings

Future meetings of the Greene County tourism group have been tentatively scheduled for Sept. 3, 5:30-6:30 p.m. (Worthington Public Library); Oct. 1, 5:30-6:30 p.m. (Carnegie Center in Linton); Nov. 5, 5:30-6:30 p.m. (Bloomfield Public Library); Dec. 3, 5:30-6:30 p.m. (Carnegie Center in Linton).

Tri-Kappa mum sales under way

The annual fall mum sale project by the Linton Tri-Kappa organization is under way. Order from any member by Aug. 29. Cost is $6 each. The flowers come in red, orange/bronze, yellow, purple and white. For more information, contact Karen Wathen at 847-8034.

Greene County Right to Life dinner

The Greene County Right to Life will host its annual pro-life dinner Sept. 12 at 6:30 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Building in Linton. U.S. Rep. Brad Ellsworth will be the keynote speaker. Tickets can be obtained from any RTL member, the Family Life Center in Bloomfield or Pregnancy Choices in Linton. Tickets can be obtained for a donation of $10 for adults or $5 for children. The RTL monthly meeting will be Aug. 6 at the Greene County General Hospital cafeteria with dinner at 6 p.m. and the meeting starting at 7 p.m. If you have any questions please contact Joyce Thomas at 384-4244.

York reunion

The James York family reunion will be Sept. 5 at Stoll’s Country Inn in Linton. Families will gather at 11:30 a.m. and eat at 12:30 p.m.

Linton girls fall softball league

Sign-ups for the Linton girls fall softball league will be Sept. 19 from 6 - 9 p.m. at the east shelterhouse at Humphreys Park in Linton. Girls between the ages of 5-18 are eligible. The league is open to all surrounding teams at $250 per team. Cost is $35 per girl and $10 for each additional girl. All games will be played on Saturdays with the first one being Sept. 12.

Antique truck show

The South Central Indiana Chapter of the American Truck Historical Society will host an antique truck show at the White River Valley Antique Association’s antique machinery show Sept. 10-13 at Elnora. This year’s featured truck is Peterbilt. All antique trucks of any model from pick-ups to semi trucks are welcome. For more information on the truck show contact Morgan Heaton at (812) 381-0983 or John Hasler at (812) 890-4159.

Financial seminar set for Sept. 14

The Central Greene County Ministerial Association will sponsor Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University beginning Monday, Sept. 14 at the First Christian Church in Bloomfield. The 13 week learning adventure will run through Dec. 7. Sessions will begin at 7 p.m. and conclude at 9 p.m. with childcare provided. The Financial Peace University is designed to help believers learn how to better manage their finances with the goal of becoming debt-free. Ramsey has a rags-to-riches, back-to-rags, back-to-riches story. He devotes his full energy to showing others how to achieve “Financial Peace” through biblical principles. Several have committed to participating in the study and there is room for more. The cost for participants is $99 per family. To sign up or to obtain more information contact Rev. Dave Wilde at 384-4812.

UMWA Retiree dinner

The UMWA annual retiree dinner will be at 6 p.m. on Sept. 12 at the Roy Clark Community Building. Please RSVP by Aug. 31 to Herman Klass at 875-3543 or John Hubbell at 665-2066.

Worthington collection box to be removed

Due to a decline in mail volume, the U.S. mail collection box at 240 West St. in Worthington will be removed.

Clothes pantry

The Linton Church of Christ is setting up a clothing pantry in the church garage. The pantry will allow people to trade good clothes that are no longer wanted or needed for other suitable clothes. The church has some clothes but is in need of donations, especially clothing for children. The church will also give away school supplies. Contact the church at 847-1894 to make a donation or for more information. The church is located at 4th and C Streets NW in Linton. Clothing pantry hours are 3-6 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays or when needed.

Buck a bag increase

Effective Sept. 1 the price of Greene County Solid Waste District’s Buck a Bag program will increase to $2 a bag per 33 gallon trash bag. Call the district at 659-3788 for additional information.

9-1-1 addressing reminder

Greene County residents can officially start using their 9-1-1 addresses after they have received an official letter from the U.S Postal Service in Indianapolis.

New book now available

“Guardians of Immortal Truth”, book eight of the acclaimed “Guardian” book series by Ruby Moon-Houldson, is now available for check out at the Linton Library, along with the music soundtrack CD “Night Sins” produced for the “Guardian” series. A total of 10 books will be in the series and books one through eight are now available at the Linton Library.

Scotland Festival parade

Parade entries are now being accepted for the Scotland Festival parade. It will be Sept. 19 at 3 p.m. Any individual, church, business or organization is welcome to participate. To register your entry contact David Stone at 863-7382 or Allen Toon at 863-2364.

Greene County Tourism group

Future meetings have been tentatively scheduled Sept. 3, 5-6 p.m. (Worthington Public Library); Oct. 1, 5-6 p.m. (Linton Public Library); Nov. 5, 5-6 p.m. (Bloomfield Public Library); Dec. 3, 5-6 p.m. (Linton Public Library).

2009 Black Creek Festival

The Sandborn Lions Club is making plans for the 2009 Black Creek Festival — which will be at the Sandborn Park. Spaces are available for craft and flea market vendors. Anyone interested in renting booth space should call Earl Meek at (812) 694-8901. More information will be available soon.

Linton Library summer hours

The Linton Public Library has begun observing its summer hours. During the week, the doors close at 6 p.m. except for programs scheduled after hours. Friday (9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.) and Saturday (9:30 a.m.- 3 p.m.) times remain the same. These hours will be followed until Sept. 8.

Book sale in Worthington

The Worthington Public Library is having an on-going book sale. All books are 25 cents each or five for $1.

Bohley Cemetery

Donations for Bohley Cemetery are now being taken. For more information call 384-8375.

Shakamak class of 1967 to meet

The 1967 Shakamak High School graduates should mark Sept. 25 on their calendars as a 60th birthday celebration is planned. The catered dinner/party will be at Shakamak State Park’s log cabin starting at 4 p.m. with dinner scheduled for 6:30 p.m. The cost of the dinner will be $9 per person. If anyone can provide addresses for any Shakamak High School 1967 classmate, please contact Patty English Strahla at (812) 939-3187 or e-mail pstrahla@kempercpa.com. Patty will also be taking reservations for the dinner and those can be mailed to her at 307 W. 7th Street, Clay City, Ind., 47841

Greene County afghans for sale

The Greene County Afghans, sponsored by the Scotland Historical Society, can be purchased at Main Street Gifts, Linton; Greene County Historical Society and Mar’ Lyn’s, Bloomfield or by calling Brenda Massette 863-2874.

House of Grace

House of Grace Coffee House will offer fellowship, food, worship and youth classes. The church is located at 792 S. Section St. in Dugger.

Pleasantville food pantry

The Pleasantville United Methodist Church food pantry is now open on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month from 10:30 a.m. - noon.

GED preparation classes

Turning Point Education Center in Switz City is offering GED preparation classes. Class times are available Monday through Friday from 8:15 to 11:15 a.m. and noon to 3 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays 5 - 8 p.m. Interested students may contact Misty Hunt at 659-2533 for program information and enrollment requirements.

Linton Community Share

Sign up for Linton Community Share at Linton City Hall on Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Lyons Senior Center Monday-Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Worthington Senior Center Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Lyons Senior Citizens Center

The Lyons Senior Citizens Center, 150 N. Jefferson St., now has wooden toy crafts for sale. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Lyons First Christian Church youth group

The Lyons First Christian Church youth group meets at 6 p.m. on Mondays at the church’s East Broad Street location.

E-mail complaints

Linton residents can report problems with pot holes, street complaints and drainage issues by e-mailing them to turp@minerbroadband.com.

Jasonville Senior center update

The Jasonville Senior Citizen Center, located at 145 S. Lawton, has opened a country store and gift shop. It will be open from 9 a.m.-noon on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. All proceeds will benefit the senior center. For more information, call the center at 665-9882.

Wig bank

The American Cancer Society announced its wig program is now being offered to cancer patients at Pam’s Style Shop in Bloomfield. The program is a service of the American Cancer Society and is free to cancer patients. For more information, call Dona Stewart at 384-4160 or visit Pam’s Style Shop, at 3 County Road 70 E.

Narcotics Anonymous

Narcotics Anonymous will meet Saturdays at 7 p.m. at the Trinity Lutheran Church on State Road 54 East. There will be open discussion and all are welcome.

Lebanon church food pantry

Lebanon Baptist Food Pantry will only be open on the fourth Thursday of each month from 6-7:30 p.m.

Bloomfield Food pantry

The Refuge Assembly of God food pantry will be open every Wednesday from 1-5 p.m. to assist those living in Bloomfield. To donate, please contact Trina at 384-8093

Friday, August 28, 2009
Greene County Daily World

Friday, August 28, 2009
By Timberly Ferree, Staff Writer
Greene County Daily World

The Bloomfield School District is off to a smooth start for the 2009-10 school year.

Building principals and the school superintendent provided a brief update on the school start during Bloomfield School Board’s August monthly meeting.

David Dean, Jr./Sr. High principal said, “We’ve had a successful start to the year … the kids were excited to be back.”

He also thanked the faculty, staff and students for the great start.

Elementary Principal Mary Jane Vandeventer also said the school year was off to a good start and noted that full-day kindergarten will start Sept. 8.

Superintendent Dan Sichting complimented the building principals and secretaries, bus drivers, cafeteria workers and other personnel for a great start to the new school year.

“It’s been a smooth start, it really has been,” he added.

In other business, the board approved several personnel items.

Nancy Hudson’s ECA resignation was approved.

Hudson was the JV/varsity cheer coach, Booster Club sponsor and BPA Association sponsor for several years.

Dean noted that Hudson was an integral part of all three ECA activities and she will be greatly missed.

Sally Neill’s ECA resignation was also approved. Neill had served as the junior high cheerleading coach.

In other ECA business, Sharon Sparks was approved as the junior varsity volleyball coach, Jessica Belcher was approved as the eighth grade volleyball coach, and Tracey Hughes was approved as the seventh grade volleyball coach.

Stephanie Arthur was also approved as a volunteer junior high cross country coach.

In other personnel business, Brandy Frady was hired as an instructional assistant at the elementary.

During discussion on the matter, Sichting said, this is a great hire for the Bloomfield School District — noting Frady is a licensed math teacher.

Cindy Montgomery was also hired as a cafeteria II worker.

Friday, August 28, 2009
By Nick Schneider, Assistant Editor
Greene County Daily World

The Worthington man hurt in Thursday night’s State Road 67 head-on collision that claimed the life of a Putnam County man remains a patient in the critical care unit at Wishard Hospital in Indianapolis.

Benjamin E. Neeley, 22, was ejected from his vehicle and suffered internal injuries and a fractured left knee.

He was taken to the Indianapolis hospital by Air-Evac medical helicopter from the scene of the crash at the bottom of “Greene County Hill” — near the Greene-Owen county line.

Neeley, a member Indiana National Guard Alpha Company, Task Force 1-151 — The Avengers — based in Linton, returned late last year after doing a 13-month deployment in Iraq.

Wishard Hospital spokesman Todd Harper told the Greene County Daily World on Friday that Neeley is in “critical condition.”

Brandon T. Goebel, 31, of Greencastle, died in the collision when his 2000 Hyundai, which was traveling north on State Road 67, struck the southbound 2001 Honda passenger car, driven Neeley.

Greene County Sheriff’s Department Deputy Aaron Smith said the 4:10 p.m. accident is still under investigation.