Small Town Living Welcome back to . . .
J
S m a l l T o w n L i v i n g
in Gibson County
Well happy winter! Isn’t it just grand? Tis the season of leaky pipes, temperamental heating systems and car batteries that won’t start. It’s hard not to look around the corner and think what’s next? Take a deep breath and remember, “This too shall pass.”
February brings some hope of spring and there’s a few events to celebrate. Football’s highlight of the year is coming up and basketball is nearing the home stretch. What a great time to try to game day recipes? Check the Cooking Corner for an easy idea.
We have a unique competition for you in our cover story - robots. Yes, our local high school will be hosting a statewide robotics competition. It’s amazing what they can do. Hopefully they’ll get the community’s support like the sports teams.
If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to check out our Behind the Scenes feature on the Whimsy Whisk. She makes sugar cookies for every occasion.
It’s time to take a break, grab some hot chocolate and take a look at what’s been going on with your neighbors. Remember to check out all of the Valentine’s ideas that our sponsors have to offer. Shopping local is the way to go - always!
Jancey Smithcopyright 2023 Small Town Living in Gibson County assumes no responsibility for guest writers or submitted material. Signed articles are the opinion of the columnist and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.
New job, new retirement account options
New job, new retirement account options
Changing jobs? Consider these 401(k) options:
Changing jobs? Consider these 401(k) options:
• Leave the money in your previous employer’s plan
• Leave the money in your previous employer’s plan
• Move it to your new employer’s plan
• Move it to your new employer’s plan
• Roll it over to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA)
• Roll it over to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA)
• Cash out the account subject to early withdrawal penalties
• Cash out the account subject to early withdrawal penalties
We can talk through your financial goals and find the option that works best for you.
We can talk through your financial goals and find the option that works best for you.
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Robotics - The New Team Competition
Living in Indiana, we all know about high school football and basketball tournaments. They bring our communities together to support our kids and grandkids. Various high school competitions do the same thing in areas other than sports – machining, band, art, and robotics. Yes, the arts and technically skilled kids deserve recognition, too.
Next month, the First Indiana Robotics organization will host a high school robotics competition in Gibson County. Twenty-eight teams from all over Indiana will compete in this second district tournament of the season. There are four district events (one each weekend), but to continue competing, each team must participate in two events. In sport’s terms, it’s like having the sectionals
come to town before the State Championship in Anderson, Indiana, on April 6th through April 8th.
During the week of March 11th-12th, Princeton Community High Schools’ auditorium will fill with students, families and fans of the technical trades. This event is free to the public. Anyone can watch how a group of talented kids can form a team that works together to build and guide a robot that works accurately on command. It’s really pretty amazing.
The teams receive a kit for a robot that they build, program and drive remotely. In some ways, it’s like a suped-up remote control car that performs simple tasks. Each task is worth points and must be completed in a specific time. They typically manipulate a ball or cone
GREENWELL AUTO BODY
into specific placement for points. It’s a show of teamwork well compared to a NASCAR pitcrew.
Representing Gibson County in this event sponsored by Toyota Manufacturing Indiana are the Disco Ducks of Princeton Community High School. The team was started by Eric Wilson and Lisa Reynolds in 2020, but along came Covid, so 2021 was the rookie season for the Disco Ducks Team 8564.
Instructor Rick Gilmore was happy to share, “They won several awards last year, including the ‘2022 Rookie Inspiration Award’ which got them a ticket to the State Competition in their first year as a team!!”
He also offered some insight, “The motto for FIRST Robotics is ‘Gracious Professionalism’. It is really cool to see an opponent help you get your robot working so you can compete against them . . . in the robotics community, they drop what they are doing to help other teams succeed”.
Teams can have anywhere from 4 - 6 kids, but there
are some larger groups which have 30-40 people involved. At least 8 -10 students are recommended per team because there are lots of moving parts to coordinate. This year’s competitors will be focusing on
Continued page 4
Robotics continued -
the theme “Charged up”. The quest for the students is to “reimagine the future of sustainable energy. From the machines that move us, to the food that sustains us, to the wireless technologies that connect us, energy plays an essential role in keeping our world running.”
On competition day, Saturday, March 11th, the pits open at 8 a.m. for inspections and practice rounds. After the opening ceremonies at 10:30 a.m., qualification matches, much like heat races in sprint cars, will run until 6:30 with a break for lunch at 1 p.m. The next day, Sunday, March 12th, after opening ceremonies at 9:30 a.m. qualification matches will continue until 12:30, when Alliance Selections are made. After a break for lunch, playoff matches will be held until 5:00 p.m. when the awards
ceremony concludes the competition. The goal is to make it to State competition at Anderson University on April 6th, and if the students are both lucky and talented, on to the World competition in Houston, Texas the weekend of April 19th. Go Ducks Go!
For any students interested in becoming involved in robotics, team competition, and gaining knowledge and experience in STEM skills (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math), looking into the 4T program at our local high schools is the place to start.
RPM Tool Partners with The ARC Southwest Indiana
For more than two decades, The Arc Southwest Indiana has supported individuals of differing abilities in our community to secure and sustain meaningful employment. In the quest to help each individual meet their own personal career goals, The Arc has made many partnerships with local businesses looking for new talent. The most recent connection is with RPM Tool, who recently expanded their business by purchasing the former Holzmeyer Tool and Die. Owners of RMP Tool, Matt and Tara Robbins have supported The Arc for many years and reached out when their staffing was going from five to nearly 30.
THE PROCESS: The employment team at The Arc visited RMP Tool to look at the job, the setting it was in and to talk with the Robbins about pay, benefits and expectations of the job. The next step was to see if this job was a good fit for someone The Arc was currently serving in employment. That is when Jordan, who was previously employed at The Arc’s west plant
operations came to mind. After talking to Jordan and his family, taking them on a trip to see the work and meet the team, everyone knew it was a perfect fit!
Jordan started working at RPM in January and has made wonderful social connections with his coworkers, is learning his new position as Operator and is truly living a meaningful life through his employment.
Senator Young Visited for Lunch
On Friday, January 13th, Senator Todd Young had lunch at Dick Clark’s with the Gibson County Chamber’s executive committee for a brief question and answer session. Topics included the need for more housing, childcare, broadband and infrastructure, especially along Interstate 69. He was made aware that while Gibson County has one of the lowest unemployment rates, 80% of the workforce doesn’t live in the county and we need more housing to change that.
On Thursday, December 29th, a reception was held for Sherif Tim Bottoms as he retired after 38 years. He began as a volunteer Reserve Deputy in 1984, working his way through the ranks until he was elected Sheriff in 2014, where he served two terms. Bottoms served under Sheriffs George Ballard, Bruce McLellan and R. Allen Harmon. Many locals as well as coworkers came to wish him well and share stories. He was presented his service revolver which is a tradition, along with a plaque and other acknowledgments.
Behindthe Scenes
of Food Favorites
The word “whimsy” by common definition refers to something playful, fanciful and could also be magical or unpredictable. When it comes to Sheridan Stokes’ sugar cookies, they are all of that and more. She is the creative force behind The Whimsy Whisk, a homebased baking business that creates custom sugar cookies in a variety of shapes, sizes, and decorated for a variety of events. The options are many - birthdays, weddings, holidays, graduations and more.
Even though Sheridan enjoyed baking brownies and cookies with her mother, (so she could lick the spoon), she took an interest in baking after college in 2014. It all started with a Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough cake, and then her interest grew as she tried more recipes and more decanted deserts.
Thinking back to childhood, Sheridan giggled and admitted, “Yes, I did love the EZ Bake oven, however, I much prefer real life size desserts.”
Her business the Whimsy Whisk began with encouragement from her sister. Sheridan loves sugar cookies and began trying Santa and Mrs. Claus
shapes in December 2019. She found it difficult and nearly gave up, preferring more traditional baked items. However, that Christmas for a gift her sister gave her a $20 bill and a note that said she had one year to use the cash for business cards. “Her faith and nudge still to this day is one of the most precious gifts I’ve ever received,” Sheridan reflected.
At first Sheridan thought she’d do more traditional baking like breads, pies and cakes. However, if she was going to open her own business, she had to be unique, do something to stand out and be different. That’s when she revisited sugar cookies. During the Covid timeout, Sheridan did so much research, bought the tools of the trade, and practiced A LOT!
By September 2020, she took the leap and made some bridesmaid proposal cookies which gave her the courage to post Halloween and Christmas presale orders on her Facebook page. That Halloween post brought in orders for around 200-300 cookies!
Sheridan remembers, “That number was so surprising to me for my first sale, I had to post
Story: Jancey Smith Photos: Set FreeBehind the Scenes
SOLD OUT.” That’s when she officially started her business and side hustle, The Whimsy Whisk, in October, 2020.
After the first custom order for a bridal shower came in January 2021, Sheridan has been rolling, in dough that is. She typically makes 6-12 batches a week but has made up to 36 dozen. Christmas is by far the busiest season when she averages 1500 cookies for the month. Her second busiest time is May. There are orders for Mother’s day, graduation, birthdays and appreciation days for teachers and nurses.
When you’re making that many cookies it adds up to a lot of butter, flour and eggs. Sheridan says she always uses real butter, not margarine and about three to six pounds weekly, but up to nine to twelve pounds when she’s busiest. Over the last few years, the price of butter has nearly doubled. The same can be said for eggs. She goes through an average of a dozen eggs weekly, but during busy time, she can easily use two
dozen, and those prices have made a big impact on a small baking business.
The most time consuming part of the cookie business is the decorating. Sheridan says, “ A simple, normal cookie set might take me 1 hour per dozen, but a more complicated or detailed set has been known to take me over 4 hours per dozen. This includes fine detailed writing, hand painted metallic details, and characters. Note that this is only the decorating, not including the dough making, baking, icing coloring, and the packaging at the end.”
When it comes to the final step - packing, Sheridan said that her mom has been a huge help, especially with holidays preorders. She explained, “Cookies are always cello bagged which allows them to maintain their freshness for 2 weeks and my cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months as well. Packaging is a high priority for me. Custom cookies are a luxury and I want my customers to feel like they are also getting a boutique, luxury product and experience when they pick up their order. After all, it is custom and made just for them! “
Since Sheridan’’s cookies are available by
continued next page A collection of birthday cookies
Behind the Scenes
pick up in Owensville, her distribution area is Gibson County, but she also has customers that come from Poseyville, Evansville, Newburgh and a few in Indianapolis. One day she may have a delivery driver, but not yet.
A big highlight was to be featured in a local magazine a few months back. Sheridan said, “Honestly, this was a dream! I couldn’t believe that my small home bakery was noticed by Evansville Living. Especially all the way out in Owensville . . . It was such an honor truly to be recognized. I still pinch myself.”
The Whimsy Whisk has some fanciful ideas for the future. It’s not to be a regular brick and mortar store goal but she would like to perfect her techniques.
Sheridan commented that she’d like to learn how to watercolor paint on cookies, and maybe someday offer cookie classes or host private cookie decorating parties. What a fun future she has planned.
Mom’s Diner Expanded
In Oakland City, Mom’s Diner on Main Street has invested in an outdoor dining area. This will be perfect for when car show season starts the first Friday of April. In time, this patio area will be closed in as well.
Carson’s Corner in Johnson is Back
The newly revamped Carson’s Corner is back open in Johnson. Marie Hasselbrink is now running the diner with the help of her dad and daughter. Breakfast, lunch and desserts are the specialty.
Renovated Tulip Tree to Open Soon
Tulip Tree Family Health Center in Fort Branch has been under major renovation. There have been new windows, a roof, HVAC and exterior paint done to the facility as well as an interior upgrade. There will be an open house and ribbon cutting on February 22nd at 11 a.m. They plan to start moving back into the building then end of January and be open for patients soon after.
Zia Smoked BBQ has New Home
New owners are coming to the previous John’s Smokin’ BBQ. Zia Smoked BBQ has purchased the building and is doing some upgrades. In the meantime, their food truck is serving a variety of BBQ items at this and other locations.
El Cerrito Said Buenos Noches
After almost two and a half years in business, the Mexican restaurant El Cerrito, formerly Los Azteca in Princeton, closed its doors on Sunday, January 22nd. At press time there was no further information available.
A New Mexican Store Opened in Princeton
Tienda Mexicana La Huasteca (The Mexican store) opened the end of December. It’s located by El Rodeo and Smokers Host where the Check and Go used to be. They offer check cashing and money transfers as well as an assortment of Mexican foods and supplies.
New Board Members at Center for Seniors
The Center for Seniors welcomes new board members and officers. Elections were held in December and new board members began in January.
Habitat of Humanity Awarded Scholarships
Executive Director Julia Rahman with Committee Chairperson, Jim Stephens announced the first presentation of scholarships presented to Habitat for Humanity of Gibson County Partner Family recipients. The scholarships were made possible by the Gibson County Community Foundation Lilly Endowment.
The Gibson County Sheriff’s Merit Board met for its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, January 17, 2023. The Sheriff’s Merit Board is made up of five members, three of whom are selected by the Sheriff and two are voted on by the Deputies. This committee meets monthly and makes decisions pertaining to standard operating procedures, hiring and disciplinary actions. At the recent meeting, board members elected Bruce Adams as President and Joe Maxey as Secretary. Other members of the Merit Board are Jon Adams, Jennifer MacKay and William George.
The 2023 meetings of the Gibson County Sheriff’s Merit Board will be on the second Tuesday of every month. Meetings start at 12:00 Noon in the Gibson County Community Corrections Conference room, located at 112 E. Emerson Street, Princeton, Indiana.
Clarification: The Gibson County Sheriff’s Office Merit Board has authority over the Sheriff’s Merit Deputies. The Princeton Police Department has a separate Merit Board with authority over their officers.
At Habitat, we continue to work to build homes, communities and hope, including scholarships, to provide a hand up, not a hand out. The presentations were made to DeAsia Thomas of Princeton, who is attending U.S.I. to pursue a degree as a dental hygienist. Also receiving a scholarship was Gavin Wheatley, who is attending Vincennes University to pursue a degree as an automotive technician.
Habitat also welcomes new construction manager Brandon Epple of Haubstadt, who has been a volunteer since 2016. He has been interim construction manager since November. Brandon looks forward to working at Habitat because it is a “Great organization that provides a needed resource of housing to the Gibson County community.”
Ruesch Consulting, LLC Acquires Calibre Computer Solutions LLS
Ruesch Consulting, LLC is proud to announce its acquisition of local technology services provider Calibre Computer Solutions, LLC effective on January 1st, 2023. This acquisition comes at an exciting point in our company’s continued success serving local businesses around the Gibson County area and beyond, allowing us to be more equipped to serve both existing and prospective clients. We look forward to continuing our growth as a company and look forward to providing a higher level of service to local businesses throughout Gibson County and surrounding areas.
Community Foundation Scholarships Available
(Princeton, Indiana) This year, donors to the Gibson County Community Foundation are once again making scholarship awards available through the Community Scholarship Program.
“Many foundation donors have honored their loved ones, high schools, or professions by endowing scholarship opportunities through the Foundation,” says Amy Smith, the Regional Director of Community Engagement and Impact. “We administer separate scholarship funds established by individuals, families, and organizations to assist local students in pursuit of advanced education. Together, these scholarships make up our Community Scholarship Program.”
Students may apply for one or more scholarships, as long as they meet the particular eligibility requirements. Details about each scholarship and the application are posted on the website at https://www.gibsoncountycf.org/ scholarships.
Eligibility requirements and selection criteria are determined by donors and are posted on the website. Each scholarship is unique and supports students with a variety of backgrounds, educational goals, and economic statuses. Awards are made without regard to race, creed, color, sex, religion, or national origin and are based on a competitive process which may consider academic achievement, extracurricular activities, personal aspirations, educational goals, and financial need.
The deadline to apply is 12:00 midnight on Monday, February 13, 2023.
with sausage orders.
The “Loving Me” Wellness event was held at the Princeton Public Library on Saturday, January 7th. There were five vendors and over 30 participants that came to start the new year off by getting some healthy ideas and sharing ideas. Watch for more events or drop in on Thursdays at 6 p.m. for Fit Club. It’s free.
Picturing the Past
In the late teens, around the time of World War I, the city of Princeton purchased its first motorized fire apparatus. It was a Federal Fire Truck with a price tag of $3000 ($52k in 2023 dollars). Many local citizens were critical of the administration appropriating that much money for a piece of fire equipment. Horse drawn firefighting equipment was retained even after the motorized truck was put in service.
By the mid 20’s, horse drawn firetrucks were considered ineffective and it was deemed necessary to purchase a new 1924 American LaFrance fire engine. The American LaFrance could pump more water than the Federal vehicle or the horse drawn apparatus. It was
~ Recycle Tips ~
The “Plastic Problem” is complex. Plastics pollution is the biggest enemy and threat to our environment. Plastic waste is non-biodegradable and takes THOUSANDS of years to decompose. It is a material consisting of a wide range of synthetic or semi-synthetic compounds that are pliable and can be molded into objects or fibers.
Plastics are classified by number. You can find out what type of plastic an item is by looking for the triangle of arrows with a number inside it. Typically, it is located on the bottom. The higher the number of plastic classification, the more it takes to break down and recycle. This causes mills to not take those due to how expensive they become to reprocess. Mill policy is the main reason Gibson County transfer stations can only accept PET/PETE (#1) or HDPE (#2) plastics. Examples of these are soda/water bottles, jugs, juice bottles, detergent or shampoo bottles, etc. Bring your #1 and #2 plastics to the Recycle Center or transfer stations and help us to better our community. Please Reduce (the volume of single-use items like plastic utensils, cups.) Reuse (the plastic items that can be repurposed) and Recycle! Thank you, Gibson County!
Follow us on Facebook OR check out our website: http://www.gibsoncountysolidwaste.com
also equipped with long ladders that could reach in excess of 50 feet. When the American LaFrance was delivered, the length of the vehicle was not considered, and it was soon found out it would not fit in the old horse barn on the north side of City Hall corner of Prince and Broadway in Princeton, Indiana. A new brick addition was built on the north side of the fire station to house the new fire truck.
As more trucks were purchased throughout the years, the 1924 American LaFrance was used as a secondary fire truck. This continued until 1960, when it was finally taken out of service. By the end of the 1960’s, space was becoming scarcer at the old fire station, and it was determined that the Princeton Fire Department would not be able to house the obsolete vehicle. The truck was stripped of any useful or dangerous equipment, and it was retired to Southside Park as a piece of playground equipment.
On Tuesday, December 27th, 23-year-old Lee Friedman, a 2018 PCHS graduate and 2022 alum of Western Kentucky State University, toed the starting line of the “Princeton 100,” an impromptu 100-mile ultramarathon comprised of 3, 33.33-mile loops around his hometown of Princeton.
Several months before race day, Lee said, “I told myself that after college I would get back into running, pick a race, train for it, and complete it. I looked at 5Ks, 10Ks, and full marathons knowing that if I trained I would be able to complete those distances and would be focused on my finish time. Those are all respectable distances, but I wanted something more. I wanted to attempt something that even with the right training and preparation I still might not be able to complete. That led to my discovery of ultra-marathons, the ultimate endurance sport where runners cover unprecedented distances, with many being 100 miles or more. I thought, ‘How is that even possible?’ and knew that I had found my race.”
Friedman initially chose to train for a 100-mile race
scheduled for February 2023, built out a training plan, and got back into the groove of running again. Unfortunately, other life commitments scheduled to start in mid-January made it impossible to travel to the race and commit to the multi-day event as well as the recovery time required. Handed the excuse of life getting in the way, he could have easily walked away without testing his limits. But, after running roughly 900 miles over the previous five months and some encouragement from his wife Jade, friends, and family, Lee chose to attempt an ultra-distance by running 100 miles around the hometown where he logged countless training miles with friends and classmates as a student athlete.
The night before setting out on his 100-mile adventure, Lee said, “I believe the constant pursuit of a better version of yourself requires taking on difficult tasks that push you outside of your comfort zone. I’m not doing this to prove anything to anyone. This one is for me. I’m going in search of my breaking point.” Race day dawned cold and cloudy with a couple of inches of snow still on the ground. Even so, a dedicated group of family and friends gathered in the back parking lot of the Princeton Community High School at 8 a.m. to see him off.
Throughout the day, Lee was cheered on by countless friends, family, and community members who used a Garmin live tracking link to follow his route. Various friends and family members also ran or biked portions of the race with Lee while others caravanned behind them in vehicles to support, encourage, and ensure their safety.
G Burch, CFP®, CRPC® Financial AdvisorAs the miles stacked up, night began to fall, and the temperature dropped to 20 degrees. By 6:00 p.m. he had passed the 50-mile mark. Determined to give it his all and see just how far he could go, Lee continued running into the night, finishing 75.72 miles in 18 hours and 23 minutes. He ultimately chose to end the race at about 2:30 a.m. on December 28th for the sake of his health and safety. In a post-race Facebook message thanking all those that supported him, Lee said, “I have experienced a wave of emotions throughout this following day. Initially, I primarily felt disappointment for not going the distance I was hoping to reach. Finally, I came to the realization that even though I didn’t make
100 miles, I did in fact find my breaking point. At mile 75.72 when I could no longer walk without my wife and sister supporting me under each arm, I had answered my question. At 2:30 a.m. on a dark county road east of Princeton I hugged my wife and told her I had done what I came to do. And in that I have found peace.”
After the race ended, Friedman’s family said, “While he may not have made the full 100 miles, there is no doubt that Lee gave 100% and then some. We couldn’t be more proud of his determination, grit, and heart! We are so thankful for all of the family, friends, and community members that made a point of coming out and cheering him on in person or virtually. Watching the community that he has been a part of his whole life turn out to encourage and keep him going was a beautiful thing to see. Lee was not alone for one single moment of this race, and that’s because of you! Your support made all the difference. You are what makes small town living the best.”
Lee dared to do something most of us would never even have the courage to attempt and inspired us all in the process to rethink our limits. 75 miles in less than 24 hours in freezing temperatures and mostly along unplowed backroads is no small feat! It’s an adventure none of us is likely to forget anytime soon, and we look forward to seeing what Lee Friedman will conquer next. Note: The “commitment” which made Lee unable to run the race that he’d originally trained for was Black Hawk pilot training. Best of luck to Lee!
Backyard Birds -
We have arrived at the final installment of the owl species in or near our backyards. We are covering the four main species in our part of the world. The fourth owl makes its distinctive sound of “Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you-all?” I am talking about the Barred Owl.
What a Hoot! - Part 5
Barred owl has nearly completely black eyes. The legs and toes are covered in feathers all the way to the talons. The feathers on the neck and chest have horizontal stripes giving it a barred look hence its name. It’s is a large bird ranging in size from 16 to 25 inches in length with a wing span of 38 to 49 inches.
Echoing through the woods on a dark evening, this bird’s can be a quite soothing or spooky sound. This guy with a round face and soulful eyes is actually quite adorable. These fellas sit on a perch and scan the area for prey with their sharp eyes and ears. They may perch over water and drop down to catch a fish, or even wade in shallow water in pursuit of fish and crayfish. While most of their hunting is after sunset and during the night or occasionally, sometimes they feed during the day.
Barred Owls may store their food in a nest, or the crook of a branch. They swallow their small catches whole and large prey in pieces.
Flying silently is nothing new when it comes to owls, the Barred Owl is no different. Its eyes are almost completely black in appearance. While most owls in the Eastern half of the continent have yellow eyes, the
Also known as a Hoot Owl, the Barred Owl also makes other sounds including cackles, caws, demonic-like laughter, and cat-like gurgles. Other sounds include a mumble, a grumble, and a high pitch twitter. When aggravated it may also make sounds of a buzzy rasping hiss while clicking its beak together.
The Barred Owl’s main threat comes from the Great Horned Owl as a predator and territorial competition, which is still expanding its range into the North and West of the continent. The Barred Owl’s population is estimated to have increased over 1% a year from 1966 to 2019. While other studies have shown the breeding population estimates at 3.5 million, these numbers have contributed to the conservation of the Barred Owl being of low concern.
Nesting for these birds take place at heights of 20-40 feet in large trees, or an abandoned stick platform nest built by others may be used. Prospective nest sites may be chosen as early as a year ahead. An owl’s nest will have very little done to it before use except for small touches such as adding lichen, fresh green sprigs from a conifer tree or feathers.
With only one brood per year and clutch sizes ranging from one to five eggs, it would not seem to be the best conditions for population growth. The conditions must be very favorable for the Barred Owl to grow over 1% per year for 53 years. Maybe it’s the non-aggressive personality that has contributed to this accomplishment or possibly it doesn’t even give a hoot. Sorry, I couldn’t resist.
Did you know that, as a result of recent legislation, Gold Star Families and honorably discharged veterans of the armed forces are now entitled to a free lifetime pass to Federal Recreation lands that charge entrance or standard amenity fees? Similarly, active duty military members are also entitled to a similar pass issued on an annual basis.
In December, 2021, the President’s signature on the Defense Authorization Act of 2022 made this incredible benefit available to America’s military heroes. These government interagency passes cover entrance fees at U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Park Service sites and cover Standard Amenity Fees at Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation sites, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sites. The pass will admit the pass owner and any accompanying passengers in a private, non-commercial vehicle at “per vehicle” fee areas, or the pass owner and up to an additional 3 adults (16 or over) at sites that charge “per person” entrance.
Acquiring the pass is relatively easy. You may
purchase a pass at the entrance to any of the aforementioned U.S. Land sites. To do so, the veteran must produce an original copy of any of the following documents validating authorization:
- DOD Identification Card (CAC, DD Form 2, DD Form 2765)
- Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC)
- Veteran ID Card
- State Driver’s License showing a veteran designation
You may also purchase a pass online through the United States Geological Survey (USGS) Store website at store.usgs.gov. When doing so, a photocopy of any of these documents is acceptable. It is important to note however that your military discharge (DD Form 214) IS NOT an acceptable form of identification. Although the pass is free, applications processed through the USGS will incur a $10 processing fee.
Fellow veterans… you are a special breed of human being. You worked hard and sacrificed greatly for your nation and are uniquely deserving of every benefit that our nation affords you. Can I encourage you to take full advantage of them?
Please call me with your questions or if I may be of any service to you.
George PickersgillVFW #2714
Fort Branch
Kitchen open Thur. & Fri. to the public
**Treasure Hunt is back Mondays at 7pm with kitchen open 4-7 pm
Texas Hold Em
Princeton Moose Lodge
Saturday, Feb. 4th
6 pm
What’s Happening!!
Spring Soccer Sign ups
online at gibsoncountysoccerclub.com
pageSee 18 detailsfor
Valentine Craft & Vendor Fair
Wirth Park Shelter house, Oakland City
D of I Spahetti Dinner
K of C Hall, Haubstadt
Deadline: March 9th midnight
Season runs April 15th through May 20th
Player fee $65
For questions
info@gibsoncounty soccerclubm.com
Saturday, Feb. 11th
9 am - 2 pm
Neighbor to Neighbor Classes
St. Joseph Church
February 2023 - FREE Call 812-385-2617
Learn budgeting, job skills etc.
Indiana Hunters
Education Class
Saturday, March 4th, 8 am Oakland City Township Library
Help and encouragement after the death of a loved one
GriefShare is a special weekly seminar and support group designed to help you rebuild your life. We know it hurts, and we want to help.
Mondays 6PM-8PM Beginning 27 February 2023
First General Baptist Church
2101 E. Broadway St. Princeton, In 47670 812-385-5410
Register at: www.griefshare.org/findagroup
attend both sessions to receive 10 mandatory hours with test at end.
Register at Indiana DNR webstie
Saturday, Sat. 18th, 5 - 7 pm
Dine in or carryout Adults $10, Kids $5
YMCA Camp
Carson Bow Shoot
Fri.-Sun. April 21-23rd
NASP Archery Shoot
Hosted by North Gibson Archery Club
Raising money for Camp Scholarhips
Contact Larry at 812-677-1765
“31 Bag” Sale
Gibson Deaconess Gift Shop Lobby
Friday, Feb. 3rd, 9 am - 4 pm
- Senior Center Activities -
Monday: 8:45 Breakfast 9:30 am - Bingo
12:00 pm - Card Players
Tuesday: 9 am - Exercise Class 11:30 - Lunch then music Noon - Crocheting
Wednesday: 11 am - Quilters
Thursdays: 10 am - Bible Study 1 pm - Art Class/Painting
*21 AND
Friday: 9 am - Tone & Stretch 9:45 Line Dancing 11:30 - Lunch
*Valentines party after Lunch
Tue. Feb. 14th
1st Thursday each month8:30 am - Men’s Breakfast Call for info 812-385-2897
*Closed Feb. 20th for Presidents Day
2023
What’s Happening!!
~ Help with Food in the Community ~
Salvation Army Food Pantry
Gibson St., Princeton
Monday, Feb. 6th, 13th & 27th
Wednesday, Feb. 8th, 15th & 22nd
9-11:30 am & 1-3 pm
Owensville Food Pantry
303 Church St.
Tuesday & Thursday
8-12 & 1-4 pm
Haubstadt Food Pantry
New Life House of Prayer
208 S. West St, Haubstadt
1st and 3rd Wednesdays
4:30 - 5:30 pm
Salvation Army Free
Food Give Away
Gibson St., Princeton
Fridays, Feb. 10th, & 24th
2:30 - 3:30 pm
Check Facebook for details
Patoka UMC
Men’s Breakfast
Saturday, Feb. 18th
7 am
203 Spring St., Patoka
Speaker Jim Sextone of Camp Carson YMCA
UMC Delivers
Dinners
Hillside Church, Princeton
Monday, Feb. 13th
Call 812-385-2910 by 2:30 pm
Lord’s Pantry
Fort Branch
Every Wednesday 9 am - 11 am
Food Pantry for Seniors
The Senior Center, Princeton, Wed. Feb. 8th & 22nd
Thur. Feb.9th & 23rd
1 - 3 pm
East Gibson
Food Pantry
Trinity United Methodist Church, 405 S. Mulberry St.
Every Wednesday 9 am - noon
Salvation Army Free Grab & Go Meal
Gibson St., Princeton
Tues. Feb. 7th & 14th 4:30 - 5:30 pm
Amer. Legion #256
Oakland City
1st Saturday each month.
All you can eat breakfast
7 am - 10 am, $10 for biscuits
& gravy, eggs, sausage, fried potatoes & pancakes
Mt. Olympus Lions Club
Meetings 2nd & 4th Mondays
Monthly at Mt. O Community Center, 7 pm
Collecting old cell phones, hearing aid and glasses
VFW #2714 Aux
Mardi Gras
Fort Branch
Saturday, Feb 25th 5 pm -?
Kitchen open 5-7 Live music, beads contest
~ The Andy Griffith Answers ~
VFW #2714 Breakfast
Fort Branch
2nd Saturday each month
Breakfast, 7 am - 10 am
Knights of St. John’s sausage, biscuits & gravy, eggs, hash browns & drink
Carryout 812-753-4161
JOY Club Bingo
Salvation Army, Gibson St., Princeton Sat., Feb. 11th, Doors open at 3 pm 4 - 6 pm
K of C Bingo
Open to Public every Thursday Princeton K of C, 6 pm
FREE Mammograms
Tulip Tree Family Health Center, Princeton
Thursday, Feb. 16th with Ascension St. Vincent Mobile Call 812-485-4437 to schedule
Celebrating 60 Years Together
Alan and Elizabeth Creamer of Owensville would like to invite their friends and family to a renewal of their wedding vows on Saturday, Feb. 11th, at Blythe Chapel Methodist Church at 1 pm. A cake reception will follow at the Owensville Community Center UNTIL 4 pm.
17th Annual Gibson County Beef Preview
Friday - Sunday, February 10th-12th
FREE admision at Pavilion
NATPA National Indoor Antique Tractor Pull
Friday -Saturday, Feb. 24th - 25th at the Pavilion
FREE Admisstion
Does My Pet Need Their Teeth Cleaned?
When is the last time you went to the dentist? How about the last time you brushed your teeth? You probably have a dental check up at least once a year, if not twice. And I’ll be you brush your teeth twice a day! But when was the last time your pet had their teeth checked, or brushed?
We know, brushing dog’s and cat’s teeth can be challenging, time consuming, and frustrating. We definitely recommend that you get in the habit of brushing your pet’s teeth, but we understand that it often is difficult to build brushing into your already busy daily routine.
Since your pets probably aren’t brushing their own teeth, they’ll need the occasional dental cleaning! Without regular brushing, plaque and tartar build up on teeth – that’s that yellow or brown stuff you see on your pet’s teeth. That plaque and tartar hold a lot of bacteria, which makes your pet’s breath smell bad, and can cause
swelling, irritation, and pain in your pet’s gums. Left untreated, this can cause severe dental disease, including rotten teeth. Untreated dental disease can even cause other health problems like heart disease and kidney disease.
So how can you tell if your dogs and cats need their teeth cleaned? Look for these signs:
• Stinky breath, more than just “doggy breath” or “kitty breath”
• Yellow or brown tartar build up on teeth, especially on outer surface of the back teeth
• Dropping food or only chewing on one side of the mouth
• Looking hungry, but not wanting to eat
• Refusing crunchy kibble or treats, but being interested in softer foods
If you see any of these signs in your pets, or anything else that makes you think that your pet might have a sore mouth or need their teeth cleaned, come in for an examination and dental check up. The Princeton Veterinary Hospital is always here when you need us, even during our construction! Call the Princeton Veterinary Hospital at 812-385-2733 with any questions, or come in during our regular business hours to see our veterinarians, no appointment needed.
Donation Drive for GC AnimalServices
All Schools at NGSC are holding a Donation Drive for the Gibson County Animal Services from February 8-17. Any community member wishing to help out the Animal Shelter by making a donation may drop it off at any of the school offices. If a receipt is needed please attach your name and address to your donation. For a list of needed items please visit the Animal Shelter website at https://www.gcasonline.org/donate or contact Mrs. Bloebaum at sbloebaum@ngsc.k12.in.us or 812385-2020. All donations are GREATLY appreciated.
We are always accepting new patients!
Winter Wish List
It must be mid-winter, because our mailboxes are full of vegetable & flower catalogs. Let’s see. Oh my goodness, everything looks so pretty. I’ll have one of these, one of those and oh look at this! Go ahead, make the list. Now, set it aside!
Mid-winter is a great time to go outside to review your current landscape and garden. Maybe it looks somewhat bare right now. Are there blank spaces in the landscaping? Decisions, decisions. Shall I fill those spots with annuals that I plant each year, or do I invest in perennials that undoubtedly cost more initially, but will return each year? Imagine how you want it to look. Remember when landscaping to consider size, blooming time, color, texture, hardiness and water requirements. Not all plants shown in catalogs will thrive in our weather zone.
Once you have decided on annuals vs perennials, now draw a plan, even if you cannot draw. Or take pictures so you can actually see what can be done. One of the biggest mistakes a gardener can make is not putting a little thought or planning into their gardens. The second biggest mistake is to wait too late to make a plan. Some plants require early spring planting while others do not do well in the early spring. There is no better time to put your plan together than on a cold blustery day. It’s also a good time to check your tools.
If planning a vegetable garden, a good plan starts with creating a list of everything you want to grow in your garden that your family will actually eat. Yes, those strange vegetables in the catalogs look interesting, but think, can I grow them in my garden and will I enjoy eating them or end up giving them to friends and relatives who may not want them either?
Can you place your order yet? Well you can, but you also can put the second Saturday in May on your calendar right now. The Gibson County Master Gardeners will be hosting a plant sale at the Senior Center in Princeton. Here you will find quality homegrown flowers, vegetables and houseplants to
beautify your homes and yards. As a not-forprofit organization, proceeds from this event go right back into our community projects. Hope to see you there to support our work.
Taking Orders for Valentines Day!
Dipped Fruit
Specialty Chocolates
Coffee Beans
Flower Arrangements
Want to know more about the many aspects of gardening? You are welcome to meet with the Master Gardeners on the third Monday, March through November, at the Senior Center at 6:30 p.m. Although we encourage you to become a member, you can attend these educational events for free with no pressure. 4467 W 525 S Owensville, IN 5 miles from Hwy. 41 off 168
The Cooking Corner
by Jancey SmithEasy Game Day Goodies
For years now, a group of ladies and I have gotten together for a girls’ night of cards. It all started when some friends from work asked me to play Bunko one night at the local Moose. That was a life changer, because that’s when I met my husband. Who would’ve thought?
Bunko morphed into card parties and those ladies
a great bachelorette party and helped tremendously with my wedding reception. Some things will never be forgotten. When times were rough, they helped me start this magazine, cooked food when our son was in ICU, and sent a great gift when my mom died. They are a priceless bunch. Who better to have your back than a group of foul-mouthed old broads? (just teasing!)
With good nature, the girls have also been my guinea pigs for numerous recipes. Each month, we all bring a dish and so they’ve been subjected to ideas whenever I tried out a new recipe for my food column. They are troopers! Some of my creations have turned out nicely. The pudding shots went over great. Others, not so much. I think back to those pastry creations of biscuits, crescent creations that were pure dough balls, and just wince. I even did candied bacon on them once. (Just say no!)
Recently we got together for our birthday and Christmas card party. Everyone brought some tasty treats to snack on as we passed nickels back and forth and we caught up on each others family, health, and travel. This time I hit a winner. I found an idea for pepperoni roll ups. This is a nice idea for game day or any time you need a doahead appetizer. Simple can be good.
Continued next page
The wrap before rolling.
Ingredients-
Italian Pepperoni Rollups
8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temp
3 out of a pack of 10-inch flour tortilla shells - sun dried tomato or spinach
3 T. onion, diced fine
3 small cloves garlic, diced fine
1/2 bell pepper, diced fine - color of choice
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup shredded Italian cheese blend
1 tsp. Italian seasoning OR
1/4 tsp each: fennel, oregano, thyme & parsley
1 pkg. sliced pepperoni
Preparation -
Place cream cheese in small bowl and stir well. Add onion, garlic, sour cream, cheeses and spices. Mix well to combine.
Lay 3 tortilla shells out and spread mixture evenly on top of each. Top with layer of pepperoni. (about 16 per wrap) Sprinkle bell peppers on top.
Roll shells tightly and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least two hours.
Unwrap and cut into 1-inch slices. (You may need to just toss out the very ends of each roll)
Serve and refrigerate leftovers. Makes 24 rolls or 12 servings of 2 each. Recipe easily doubled.
Springs Valley Helped the Polar Plunge
A major fundraiser for YMCA Camp Carson each year is the polar plunge held at the end of January. This event helps raise money for camper scholarships. Springs Valley Bank & Trust made a donation so that more kids can attend our local camp.
Tri-State Food Bank Partner with Lions
The Francisco Lions Club partnered with Tri-State Food Bank to bring 150 pounds of food boxes to families on Friday, January 6th. The parking lot was filled by 8:30 that morning and within 30 minutes after the event started, all food boxes were gone.
The TMMI Experience Center is Back
After a huge disruption due to Covid and a major remodel, the Toyota Experience Center is once again giving tram tours of the plant to the public. Tours are given on Tuesday through Thursday mornings at 9 a.m. and noon for up to 32 people.
This is perfect for student field trips for 3rd grade or above. The tram tour takes about 45 minutes but groups are encourage to allow an extra half an hour or so to explore the interactive gallery.
Groups can reserve their time online at tourtoyota.com and call 812-387-2266 if there are questions.
FEBRUARY EVENTS S
Grab
March 2023 PLAN
Wednesday, March 1: Grab & Go Kids Craft
124 South Hart Street Princeton, IN 47670 812-385-4464
www.princetonpl.lib.in.us
SEPTEMBER 2015
February is our mini-reading contest! For kids 3-12, every book you read this month gets your name slip entered to win a Boredom Buster Bag!
30 Makerspace Preview
Join us for a look at our new upstairs makerspace!
VU GED 12:30pm
Family Craft Night 5pm
Fiber Fanatics 6pm Sewing with Susan 6pm
5 6 VU GED 12:30pm
Learn how to get your GED! Call 812- 602-4136 to register
Twilight Tales 5pm Special sleepy story time where pjs are encouraged!
Fiber Fanatics 6pm Sewing Class 6pm
1 2 13 VU GED 12:30pm
Hole in the Head 5pm Documentary film on local Vertus Hardiman & presentation to
31 The Well 9am-11am Courses begin today call Emilie Brown to register: 812453-5120
Story Time 10am Stories & activities for youngsters who have not yet started kindergarten
7 The Well 9am-11am Call Emilie Brown to register: 812-453-5120
Story Time 10am
The Mighty Pen 6pm If you want to get your story out there, you need to know your publishing options. How to publish is tonight’s topic
14 The Well 9am-11am Call Emilie Brown to register: 812-453-5120
Story Time 10am
Feb 1 VU GED Class 12:30pm
Teen Scene 4pm
Dollar Store Craft Night 6pm Circle of Love Truck craft
2 The Well 9-11am
Games Club 4pm
Fit Club 6pm
All ages and body types welcome!
8 Chats with Charlie 10am Fort Knox II, Zachary Taylor and his daughter’s love affair! Learn how it all connects this month!
VU GED 12:30pm
Teen Scene 4pm
Dollar Store Craft Night 6pm Valentine Signs
9 The Well 9am11am Call Emilie Brown to register: 812-4535120
Games Club 4pm Skill building & friendly competition
Fit Club 6pm
3 4 Take Your Kid to the Library Day Bring in your child to receive a small token of our appreciation & learn about our February mini-reading contest!
10 11 Family LEGO Saturday 2-4pm
1 9 20 Friends of the Library Book Sale
VU GED 12:30pm Family Game Night 5pm Fiber Fanatics 6pm Sewing Class 6pm
Please make sure you call to register for these limited spots!
21 The Well 9am-11am Call Emilie Brown to register: 812-453-5120
Story Time 10am Library Board Meeting 4pm Open to the public
22 VU GED 12:30pm Call 812- 602-4136
We had our Makerspace Preview back on January 30th. Begin booking your sessions on February 28th!
Our Friends of the Library Book Sale will begin on Thursday Feb 16th at 1pm and con nue through business hours on Monday Feb 20th
History Mystery Library Program
A common thread of history connecting these photos of locations or objects will be the central focus of my February Programs at the Princeton Library –connected from the local level to the national level during the early to mid-1800’s. All the objects and locations are within 25 to 90-miles of Gibson County. History, legend, romance, and tragedy are all woven into this story - A History Mystery To Be Unraveled During My Library Programs In February.
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Story and photos by Charlie Kiesel
Fb.com/owensvillecarnegiepubliclibrary
3. The daughter of the Fort Knox commander was named after the fort. She was born in Vincennes, Indiana a few blocks from the Harrison Mansion. In the foreground is the marker indicating where she was born. 4. Approximately ninety miles south of Gibson County is a state historic site which has a picnic area, a playground, a museum, and a 351foot-tall obelisk/monument centerpiece located in Fairview, Kentucky, a town of 300 people. The park location is the birthplace of a famous leader.
WE’RE IMPROVING HEALTHCARE IN GIBSON COUNTY
Call Oceana Whitt-Gillett at 618-292-8237
for any inquiries and admission question you may have!
RESPITE CARE
Are you looking for respite care during this winter for your loved one? Transcendent Healthcare of Owensville is here to support care for patients waiting to return home in the Spring.
• Concierge Bus Service
• Locally owned & operated
• Inpatient/Outpatient Rehabilitation
• Hospice & Clinically Complex Nursing
1. Barney’s dancing suit was accidentally sent to _______ ________;
A. Mount Pilot
B. Mount Airy
C. Siler City
D. Kleany Kleeners
2. The lady shoplifter was hiding the lifted items in her
A. Coat
B. Purse
C. Suitcase
D. Sweater
3. Gomer arrived early one morning with _______ for Andy’s breakfast.
A. Donuts
B. Eggs
C. Fish D. Waffles
For answers see page 21
Tulip Tree Helped Souled Out Saturday
Each month Tulip Tree employees can participate in “Jeans with a Cause”. The money collected is donated to local organizations like CASA, The Center, and Addiction Solutions.
More than just a flower shop
if flowers are not the solution beautiful plants or one of a kind gifts are on display to help you decide on just the right gift for just the right occasion! Call
Our service can’t be copied.
It’s said that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery; however, Springs Valley’s strong customer service culture cannot be copied. Our Brand Promise to you is Fast, Friendly, Personalized Service. We put these principles to work every day, and we have since 1902.
Springs Valley also prides itself in forecasting future trends and leading the way for all of your banking needs, including convenient, eZBanking, with the latest online and mobile banking technologies, so you can Bank 24/7.
We continue to be inspired by our proud heritage of leadership and are driven by it to lead us, and you, into a promising future, together.
Loyal to you, your family, and your future.
No one puts their money where our mouths are like the American farmer. We see the results of your hard work and commitment three times a day. We depend on it. You can depend on the folks at Shelter to take the same pride in our performance as you do in yours.