Small Town Living in Gibson County

May has been quite a month! Spring has sprung, farmers are planting, flowers are blooming, and we’ve been busy watching the kiddos’ end of school ceremonies. There’s been graduations ranging from college to kindergarten and everything between. It seemed only fitting that our cover story highlight a new high school program focusing on business. You’ll find more details in Business Today.

Behind the Scenes give a highlight to a small business that uses her jams, jellies, and breads to give back to the community. See how Auntie Em jams! With produce stands popping, picnics on the horizon, and lighter meals on the menu, the Cooking Corner features a variety of interesting summer salads. Grab some sweet tea and take a moment on the porch to catch up on what’s been happening with the local folk.

Please be sure to thank our sponsors for their support.

Jancey Smith and friends

Contact us - by mail at 427 N. Hart St., Princeton, IN 47670

copyright 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.

Jancey Smith

impressive.

dressed

CEO - Capping off the Year with a Trade Show

these businesses.

When I first began researching this story, I simply googled. I wanted to see where other programs of this sort might be located. I remember a program at Columbia University, which is in New York City, New York University and Stanford. The sort I had in mind was any kind of advanced, ambitious program in which high schoolers could participate. Many of them were highly selective, expensive, and in or around world-class cities. Even the CEO program was founded in Effingham, Illinois, by the Midland Institute which is a three-hour train

On the cover: The inaugural CEO class of Gibson County. Left side: Raina Slay, Cullen Blaize, Rick Coleman, Right side: Kalin Bedwell, Rachel Pohl, Jesse Rodriguez-Perez, Blake Smith. Top Left: School board member Travis Nolcox talks with Rick Coleman. Right: Rachel Phol displayed her cupcake business.

They were all

while holding the posture of a ballet dancer. They owned

ride to Chicago, a blip in midwestern requiem. It is

now a thing of Gibson County, a thing with which rural kids can satiate their ambition.

The Trade Show was an opportunity, a kind of coronation, to be melded into the community of local business owners. The Princeton Public Library hosted it on Wednesday, May 17th, in one of its new sections, near the entrance on Main Street. At night there are lights below that give it a glowing effect, but the event began at four and ended around seven in the evening, so the sun stood in, hot. Inside these young business owners of Gibson Country had tables set in U-formation as if a stage. They stood behind them and greeted the community members that perpetually poured in. When I spoke to the students of CEO, I referred to the Trade Show as a “grand finale,” a cliche that now makes me queasy, but they agreed. Because after a year of conceiving their ideas, and daily weekday meetings at seven in the morning, the Trade Show was for selling whatever they had developed.

I attended orientation to CEO the week before, also hosted at the library in Princeton; Board members Richard Coleman, Dusty Wilhite, Patty Vanoven, Scott Hartley, and John Snowden were all there. Together they played a game of tetris, moving blocks of sentences around to best inform the incoming CEO class. Coleman’s official title is Facilitator, and I could see his fingerprints all over the quiet eloquence of the inaugural class. He was wearing a purple ensemble, a tux, and he’d cue their commentary: “Raina, do Kalin Bedwell explains how she makes her earrings.

you have anything you’d like to add?” asked Coleman, which he did at least three times to Raina specifically. “This program will stretch you in ways you never imagined,” she said. I could see clearly she had leaned into Coleman’s facilitation. And later, at the Trade Show, she told me: “Mr. Coleman has certainly been the most influential.” Her classmates all said something similar.

At the orientation, the air in the room certainly felt like that of a start-up, but there had already been much work done. “It’s an evolving program,” Coleman told me the day of the Trade Show. Four years ago, Richard Coleman was just hearing of these CEO programs. A couple friends put the idea in his ear, and he began making calls. Coleman is scarcely idle, outside PCHS where he teaches, he could be anywhere in the state with his suicide prevention work. However, he didn’t anticipate the fastidiousness he would need for building a Gibson County sect of CEO. After the first call he made, he knew it would be a long, tedious process, like the acquisition of 35 investors just to legitimize Gibson County CEO.

At the Trade Show, the evolution was undeniable. Chair of CEO Dusty Wilhite told me at orientation how timid these kids once were. Now, they had businesses: Jesse Rodriguez-Perez wrote a book of 100 poems and many left me breathless; Cupcake Creations by Rachel Pohl, cupcakes that are beautiful and delectable; Healthy Snacks by Blake Smith, because vending machines are often hubs for athletes failing to eat responsibly; Oddity Earrings by Kalin Bedwell, the earrings which one can tell are of an artists’ touch; and the businesses of the only seniors of the inaugural class: Patchwork by Blaize of Cullen Blaize and My Own Story created by Raina Slay.

Continued page 4

Jesse Rodriguez-Perez with his poetry.

Cullen Blaize had never gotten involved in anything in high school before CEO. I noticed at the Trade Show he was fidgety; he still gave me his eyes. In his clean suit, he admitted he was nervous, because on June 12th he will depart for the National Guard. His father was in the National Guard, so the idea had been simmering. Doug Hall, a board member who is a National Guard recruiter, helped him see a tangible path to it. He talked to me about a plan to learn German, and the sewing skills he developed for Patchwork by Blaize, and the new embroidery skills he would soon have.

Raina Slay placed top 30 out of 400 for her individual business video pitch. Slay had always been an academic standout, but hardly a reader. Yet, for My Own Story she writes children’s books which she personalizes by inserting a child’s name. For the Trade Show she wore a sleek black-and-white dress and her smile gleamed. She was the first person I spoke to in depth there. “I created My Own Story because of my personal relationship with reading as a kid.” She recalled the idea of Lexile scores, a system for assessing a reader’s level. In elementary school, Lexile inundated her wwith books she wasn’t interested in, which has darkened her path to reading. CEO has surprised her with light in many ways since she joined. Perhaps the brightest surprise: She will be joining the National Guard after graduation, a venture that had previously been unthinkable.

The Midland Institute began building the train of CEO programs across the midwest. I particularly love the image of programs like Gibson Country CEO, sects that are nestled into counties full of towns with not a heart over 8,000. And I love the image of the business owners who will be seniors next year; they have so much to unfold before they decide where they will be next. And for Slay and Blaize, the two business owners heading to the National Guard, I think of this: “I don’t know what it is about Hoosiers, but wherever you go there is always a Hoosier doing something important there.” These words were Kurt Vonnegut’s – a canonical American writer who hailed from Indianapolis.

*For more CEO pictures see pages 36 and 39.

Tiny Graduates at Hillside

provided

Photo

Raina Slay explains her children’s story books.

Local Recognized with Lions Award

Since June of 2004, Sue Leffler has been a member of the Lions Club and has been actively serving the community for the last 19 years. On Mother’s Day at the Lions State Convention held in Bloomington, she was presented with a certificate of appreciation as a “Global Lions Team Member.”

Sue is currently the treasurer for the Oakland City Lions Club, involved in the Indiana Lions Cancer Control, and the Zone Chair for District 25-E. She helps organize and volunteer at events, as well as oversees the Sweet Corn Festival booklet.

Photo: Glen Georges

Sue Leffler of the Oakland City Lions Club

Francisco Said Farewell to the School in Style

A farewell reception for the Francisco Elementary was held Thursday, May 4th. All past and current students were invited to roam the halls, look at old pictures, and take final ones with friends and family. Many members of the community stopped by to take a last tour of the school that began in 1851, and will be closing at the end of May.

ROGERS HOME EXTERIORS

Photos: Jancey Smith

Lots of pictures were taken that night.

Barb Krieg had nine grand and great grandkids come through Francisco Elementary and went to all of their events since 1995. Pictured are Whitney Dunn , Deklyn Dunn, and Jaxton Eaton

Custom T-shirts were made to commemorate the occasion.

There were years of pictures lining the halls for people to look at and reminisce.

Many past students and parents came by to visit with 2nd grade teacher, Mrs. Malin.

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George Pickersgill - Gibson Co. Veterans Service Officer, 812-385-4522

Last month I had the indescribable privilege of going on the Honor Flight (EVV Flight 14) with a dear friend and veteran of the Korean War. For those of you who have been already, you can surely understand what a monumental and lifechanging experience it can really be. For those veterans who have not, my desire here is to give you a glimpse of the trip and encourage you to consider signing up

Of the 86 veterans/guardians on this flight, we were honored to be one of the seven from Gibson County, one of which was my predecessor and county rock star Barbara Schenks. Many of you will remember her as a former County Service Officer and champion for veterans in Gibson County. It was a joy to get to see her honored in this way after so many years of selflessly serving us.

The day began with an early morning check-in at the Evansville Airport. After brief administrative processing, we received a hero’s send-off from Evansville Mayor Lloyd Winnecke and a small army of Honor Flight staff

and volunteers who were surely awake at some insanely early hour of the morning to make this an experience of a lifetime. The short flight to Washington Ronald Reagan Airport put us in Washington D.C. around 9:00 am, ready for an adventurous day.

Veterans were divided onto four exceptionally nice tour buses for the day’s events. Experienced and dedicated drivers and guides toured us around the city, visiting numerous military sites to include the World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and Iwo Jima Memorials. One of the most popular and certainly most moving stops was at Arlington Cemetery to watch the changing of the guard

Korean War Marine Corps veteran John Moore and I at the Vietnam Memorial in DC.

and wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. No matter how many times I have witnessed this hallowed event, and there have been many, it never fails to choke me up. If you have never seen this in person, you surely must. No matter where we were, there was always ample time to leisurely explore the site. Although we ran into a bit of foul weather while there, the Honor Flight staff flawlessly modified the schedule to avoid wasted time. I was so impressed at how smooth and well-organized this entire process was. It was literally like clockwork.

After a very minor technical problem set us back a bit, we returned to Evansville to a grand parade and welcome home fit for royalty. Dedicated Honor Flight regulars Ron Rhodes and Indiana Senator Mark Messmer, and numerous others, welcomed us home with a greeting that was nothing short of overwhelming. It was the kind of

atmosphere that would bring tears to a tough guy’s eyes. I heard it said numerous times that the parade crowd was the largest ever, some estimating it to be around 4,000 people. It was so large in fact the terminal area could not hold them all, with overflow extending outside the building. Again, it was an experience that was truly hard to fully explain and one that I will treasure forever.

Gibson County veterans… I cannot encourage you enough to sign up and take this flight if you are able. The next flight is schedule for October 21, 2023. The sign-up process has been made very easy and can be done at http:// www.honorflightsi.org. If you need assistance, feel free to call me and I’d be happy to help you. Respectfully,

George Pickersgill

Honor

A lone sentinel faithfully guards the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery.

Flight veterans and escorts from Princeton (left to right) Me, John Moore, Dick Fitch, Jerry Davis, Jimmy Bryant, Chris Bryant, Mike Wood and Jenny Bartley.

Center: John Moore and I at the

Lion’s Club Hosted Circus Celebrating 100 Years

The Oakland City Lion’s Club brought the circus to Wirth Park at the end of April. There were two shows that entertained well over 300 people. There were clowns, acrobatics and more, including pony rides for the kids. Watch for the Lion’s Sweet Corn Festival

Darline Fritz turned 100 years old on May 6th. Her family arranged a limo ride for her on Sunday, April 30th. It took her to a surprise birthday party in Francisco where she was originally from. She grew up and raised her family there until moving to Princeton when her husband passed away in 1997. She canned, sewed, and took care of their

Lions Club Secretary and District Governor Elect, Glenn Georges was the guest ringmaster. Right: Children enjoyed the pony rides.

Photos: Sue Leffler

Behindthe Scenes

Story & Photos: Janice Barniak

of Food Favorites

Substitute teacher and Owensville resident

Emilynne Ramsey realized student lunches were burdening local families when she was covering an Owensville Community School teacher’s class, and another adult popped in to ask her to talk to a student.

“It’s only five weeks into the school year, and this kid is $60 behind on his lunch account, so he’s tried to pack his lunch. Today he only bought a bag of chips. Could you tell him he can get in line, that he’s not going to be denied?”

Ramsey said at a certain age students start to realize when their accounts are behind, and that’s embarrassing to them.

She decided to use her small business, Auntie Em’s Homemade Jam & Bakery, to sell families takeand-bake meals with the proceeds benefiting South Gibson lunch programs.

She advertised them through her small business’s Facebook page, which she’d normally used to take orders for bread, danishes, jams, extracts and more,

Emilynne Ramsey makes jams, like Mango Tango, (back), and citrus-based marmalades, along with other homemade items at Auntie Em’s Homemade Jam and Bakery in Owensville.

Strawberry jam on homemade bread

Behind the Scenes

continued

While the proceeds went to the lunch program, she said the fundraiser opened her eyes to another need for families—affordable homemade to-go meals. It inspired a business expansion, and she’s currently building a commercial kitchen next to her home.

Right now, as the upgrade finishes, she pulls stored stock out of her basement, from apple pie jam, to relish, to pineapple upside down jam, vanilla bean extracts, and more. The basement of her house stores a rainbow of jams that, when held to the light, shine like stained glass windows.

She pioneered flavors like mango tango, roasted garlic and onion jam, and blueberry lemonade, bourbon cinnamon vanilla extract with whole vanilla pods included, danishes and tangy homemade breads.

She’s also managed to go completely dyefree with her products.

That doesn’t mean every experiment works.

Cotton Candy Grapes didn’t hold on to their flavor, and the sweet tea and coffee jams are still being developed.

Her big canning pot can make 14 jars of jam at a time and this year her business ran through 33 cases of

Mason jars. She thought of taking the business to a bigger town, but she said she feels Owensville needs more businesses, and she enjoys selling to her neighbors. Moreover, she said families around her are hardworking, with many adults working more than one job, especially bus drivers, cafeteria workers and more.

Her plan for a future take-and-bake business will help families save time and serve healthy food, with a kitchen storefront.

“It still kind of weighs on me a bit, making sure some of the kids are getting what they need,” she said. “I think about them a lot.”

Watch for Auntie Em’s at the Owensville market June 17th.

Volunteers from Master Gardeners and Bethel Church helped with a landscape project at the office of Habitat for Humanity. They used the project to help teach Partner Families about gardening and landscaping. The Legion donated flags for each family to show our appreciation for all veterans and our military. Lili Swenson of the Master Gardeners was instrumental in helping coordinate the project. Many community members contributed as well.

Habitat Partners with Master Gardenders

Homemade bread is one of baker Emilynne Ramsey’s newer products, along with homemade vanilla extracts and savory jams like roasted garlic and onion.

The Cooking Corner

Story & photos:

Jancey Smith

Summer Salads

One thing nice about small communities is that they have a group of volunteer home cooks that can make dishes that give you the feel of sitting in grandma’s kitchen. Simple, country recipes that have been handed down through families. These type of potlucks are nice because you can get tiny samples of anything that catches your eye. My father-in-law called it grazing and he was very good at it.

Recently a local church was able to bring back a 30+ year tradition of their Salad Bar Luncheon. It was an annual fundraiser for the church. The pandemic caused quite a delay, but this year they were back. This salad bar is not just two types of lettuce with tomatoes, cheese, bacon bits and other assorted toppings. Oh no, it’s a selection of almost every homemade salad you can think of, be it savory, sweet, veggie or fruit. Volunteers pitch in and bring in countless family recipes.

The highlight is always a ham salad once sold at a local neighborhood grocery store years ago. It’s a special touch of all the good stuff with a few secrets and bologna. Other protein based salads were chicken, tuna and taco. There were also plenty of veggies salads, everything from pea salad (doesn’t bacon and cheese make everything better?), kraut, three bean and even some fun variations like black bean and corn salad, as well as one with cornbread.

One of my favorite categories of salad is the pasta salad. Yeah, I love carbs in most every variation possible - spuds, breads and pastas. There are just so many shapes to chose from. I’ve seen pasta salads that have an oil based dressing like Italian or Greek while others are creamy. Tomatoes are usually a constant staple and sometimes black olives sneak in,

too. You just never know, so it pays to keep tasting.

Desserts can come in salad form also. I make a cranberry salad every Thanksgiving. It’s a holiday staple and family favorite. Thinking back, Waldorf and grape salads can easily be sweet enough to be considered a dessert as well. Then there is also an entire array of Jell-O salads. Almost everyone had a great aunt that brought some Jell-O mold with fruit or veggie tucked inside and often coated with a white fluff. Those were scary. You just never knew what was really in those molds. I can’t help but think of the Griswold’s Family Christmas movie. I’m pretty sure that was cat food hidden in the lime green holiday dish.

Since pasta salads are my favorite, I’ll share a recipe for one that should please most. It’s a pepperoni pasta salad with just a few ingredients that you could find on a pizza anywhere - tomatoes, olives, peppers and mozzarella. It’s easily made ahead and cut in half if needed. If you need a dish for a picnic or outing, this will work fine and makes a nice side on those busy warm days that are coming.

Pepperoni Pasta Salad

Ingredients-

8 oz. uncooked bow-tie or cork screw pasta (1/2 box or 3 cups)

4 oz. pepperoni slices, cut in half or quarters if large

3/4 cup whole black olives

1 cup chopped red or green bell pepper

1/4 cup diced onion

2 cups diced tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes halved)

6 oz. block mozzarella cheese, cut in cubes

1/2 cup clear Italian dressing

black pepper to taste

grated Parmesan cheese, for topping, optional

Pepperoni Pasta Salad cont.

PreparationCook and drain pasta, rinse with cold water and drain in colander.

In large bowl, mix remaining ingredients except Parmesan cheese. Add pasta and toss to combine well.

Cover and chill for two hours. Top with Parmesan when serving. Makes 8 servings.

Parmesan Bacon Salad

Ingredients-

Parmesan dressing

2 cups mayonnaise

1/2 cup sugar

1-8 oz. pkg. shredded Parmesan cheese (more to taste)

Mix all ingredients well and refrigerate over night.

Salad

all ingredients in this are more or less to taste

1 bag lettuce, iceberg or Romaine mix

1 bag spinach

1 head broccoli florets

1 head cauliflower florets

onion, chopped

carrots, diced

3-4 lb. bacon, cooked and crumbled

salt and pepper to taste

Preparation -

Just before serving, in large bowl, combine salad ingredients of choice and dressing; toss well. Serves 8-12.

Return of the Hillside Salad Bar

The Hillside Salad Bar lunch was held Friday, May 5th. It took days of work for the volunteers to serve 120 folks.

Here’s a few extra ideas. The Parmesan Bacon Salad is my sister-in-laws recipe and is a favorite at every family gathering. You get your veggies and a bacon for flavor. If you have leftover chicken, try the Smoked Chicken Salad. It can be used with rotisserie chicken as well.

Ingredients-

1/2-3/4 cup smoked chicken, chopped

1/2-16 oz. box multicolored spiral rigatoni

1 cup frozen peas

1/4 small onion, sliced thin in rings

1/2 t. garlic salt

1/2 t. paprika

pinch of red pepper

flake

crushed black pepper

(optional)

1 t. olive oil

1/4 cup of Vidallia

onion vinaigrette

sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (optional)

10-12 cherry tomatoes, (optional)

Preparation -

In large pan, bring at least 4 cups water to boil. Add pasta, salt and olive oil. Return to boil and cook 7-9 minutes. While pasta is cooking, heat 2 T. bacon grease in medium skillet. Add onion slices, sprinkle with salt, pepper and crushed red pepper flakes, stirring often. When onions begin to soften, about 4-5 minutes, add smoked chicken just to warm (if using leftovers). Remove from heat.

When pasta is done, drain water and return to pan. Combine onion and chicken into pasta and toss well. Pour dressing over all and mix well.

Can we eaten cold or warm. Makes about 3 cups or six side servings.

Pepperoni pasta using bowties.

Although many folks came to chat and eat, carryout was available.

VFW #2714

Fort Branch

Kitchen open Tues. for Tacos, Thur. & Fri. specials 4-7pm, check Facebook for specials, open to the public carryout available

Texas Hold Em

Princeton Moose Lodge

Saturday, June 17th

6 pm

1st General Baptist Revival

2101 E. Broadway, Princeton

Lane & Gretchen Loman

Friday, June 9th - 6 pm

Saturday, June 10th - 6 pm

Sunday, June 11th - 10 am

DPI

Bicentennial

What’s Happening!!

DPI Summer Market

Princeton Square

10am - 3pm

Sunday, June 25th

VFW #2714

Fort Branch

Trivia Night

Friday, June 30th & Friday, July 28th

Oakland City

Fireworks

Golf Course June 24th, dark

Steelman Park

Farmers Market

Owensville Square

Saturday, June 17th, 8am - 2 pm local produce, crafts & food trucks

Karoeke

Princeton Moose Lodge

Saturday, June 16th, 8 pm

Saturday, June 17th

Reed In Miracles Bike Event - 8 am

Education, Food Trucks, 25K, 50K or 100K rides

Sunday, June 25th

Cruise In Car Show, 1-5pm

Classics, Jeeps, Cycles, Muscles & Hot Rods

Tuesday, June 27th

Food Truck Tuesday with music

4:30 - 8pm along the Midway

Guns & Ammo

Lincoln Park

Block Party

Saturday, June 17th

3pm - 8pm, by Greater Holy Temple free food, music, giveaways, gift baskets, corn hole & 3 bikes

Habitat Golf Scramble

Friday, June 9th, 8am

Oakland City Golf Course

Girls Day Out

Princeton Community Center

Saturday, June 10th 10 am - 4 pm

snacks, vendors & fun

Amer. Legion Post #25 Breakfast

Broadway, Princeton

2nd & 4th Saturdays

8 - 10 am

92nd Mt. Olympus

Alumni Banquet

Mt. Olympus gym

Saturday, June 17th

4 pm social hour

5 pm dinner $18

Reservations due June 2nd, send to PO Box 236, Princeton, IN 47670 Info 812-499-5248

Oakland City/Wood Memorial Alumni Banquet

Wood Memorial Cafeteria

Saturday, June 10th

3 pm social hour dinner $20

reservations due June 1st mail to Carl Shomate 133 S. 1150 E. Oakland City, IN 47660 Info 812-385-6631 or 812-380-1451

- 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

Friday: 9 am - Tone & Stretch

9:45 Line Dancing

11:30 - Lunch

Thursday June 8th - 8:30 am - Men’s Breakfast Call for info 812-385-2897

What’s Happening!!

~ Help with Food in the Community ~ UMC Delivers

Salvation Army Food Pantry

Gibson St., Princeton

Monday, June 5th, 12th

Wednesday, June 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th

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

Tuesdays, June 6th, 13th, 20th, & 27th

Fridays, June 2nd, 16th & 30th

2:30 - 3:30 pm

Mackey Salem UMC

Community Meal

Third Tuesday monthly 11am - 12:30 pm

proceeds go to E. G. food pantry

Yard Sale

Salvation Army, Gibson St., Princeton

Friday, June 9th & 23rd

8am - 1 pm

Community Prayer

Dinners

Hillside Church, Princeton

Monday, June 12th

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. June 14th & 28th

Thur. June 8th & 22nd

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. June 6th & 13th 4:30 - 5:30 pm

Souled Out Saturday

Oasis Church, Princeton

1st Saturday monthly

Sign in - 7-10:30

Breakfast - 7:30-8:30

Food Pantry - 8:30-11am

Shopping - 8-10am

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

K of C Bingo

Open to Public every Thursday Princeton K of C, 6 pm

Cruise-In at the Square

Princeton Square

Freedom Fest

Music by Blackstone

Tuesday, July 4th 4 - 7 pm

Red Wagon

Cruise In Redwagon, Poseyville

Friday, June 16th

3:30-6:45

awards 7:30pm

Thunder on the Square Bike Show

Princeton Square

Friday, June 2nd 5pm-6pm

Food Truck Tuesdays

Gibson County Fairgrounds

Tuesday, June 27th, 4 - 8 pm, Food & Live Music

Mt. Olympus Lions Club

Meetings 2nd & 4th Mondays

Monthly at Mt. O Community Center, 7 pm

Collecting old cell phones, hearing aids and glasses

JOY Club Bingo

Salvation Army, Gibson St., Princeton

Sat., June 3rd, Doors open at 3 pm 4 - 6 pm, bring can good

Monthly Car & Bike Show

Mom’s Diner, Oakland City

Friday, June 2nd, 6 - 8 pm

Ace of Clubs

Cruise In Car Show

Fairgrounds

Sunday, June 25th, 1 - 5 pm

GCAS Cruzin’ for Critters Car Show

Lafayette Park

Sunday, July 2nd, 8 am - 12:30pm

Mackey Church of Nazarene Preschool & Childcare

Sign ups for: Summer Care: M-F, 5/22-8/11, Full & P/T Care, Pre-K, & Preschool Call 812-677-1023 for info

Everything Dad Needs for a Summer of Grillin’ Fun!

Meat, Veggies, Wood Chips, Charcoal & More!

Lafayette Park Pavilion, Princeton

Monday, June 9th, 6 pm hosted by Bethel Memorial

FREE Rapid Testing

HIV, Hepatitis, Syphilis

Tulip Tree, Ft. Branch

Friday, June 16th

1 -3 pm

Local Gymnasts Going to Nationals

Princeton Gymnastics Club had a big day at the state competition in Evansville. The event featured tumbling, trampoline, and double-mini competitions. They competed in 46 total events. The club has 14 girls that qualified for nationals which will be held in Springfield,

Antique Tractor Show

The Gibson County Antique Tractor Club held its annual tractor show and pull the first weekend of May. It was a two-day event that featured tractors, a working saw mill, barrel train rides, a flea market with food trucks and music, as well as a pull on Saturday night.

One of the food trucks on Saturday

Front row: Harper N., Brynn Witsman, Laikley Bolden, Lainey Saum, Ramsey Anthis, Addison Collins, Kennah Reed, Kaitlyn Meyer, Leora Boxdorfer. Second row: Kenlee Donnell, Coach Shelby Donnell, Coach Rachael Anthis, Maylin Storkman, Addison Matsle. Back row, Cora Fore, Arianna Roberts, Kirsten Phol, Ava Bates, Whitley Stivers & Bristol Powers. (Photo provided)

Rows and rows of antique tractors were on display at the fairgrounds.

These club members demonstrated a working saw mill for visitors.

was Wheel’n and Grill’n. Micah Buhl (right) tested it out.

Junee B’s is now Memories

At the beginning of May, the former ice cream tradition, Junee Bs, has new owners and is now reopened as Memories. They open daily at 11 a.m. and are looking for help to stay open later to serve ice cream treats.

Over the Top Food Truck is on the Road

Tim Hughe’s food truck “Over the Top” did a test run at the Waters in Princeton to celebrate national Nurses’ Week. They plan to use the truck for pop up food occasions and to cater company events. Look for them at the grand opening of A Tale of Two Groomers in Oakland City and at Lyles Station for the Juneteenth celebration.

Over the Top is based out of Tim’s Awesome BBQ on S. Main.

Harpers Says Farewell

As of June 2nd, Harper’s Pub & Pizza will be closing its doors. Lack of help has made business difficult.

Make Your Mark Held Grand Reopening

Last June, the ladies at Make Your Mark expanded their operation and moved into what was once RPM Tool, so they could have a production facility to screen print apparel. After a year of operating two locations, they have combined everything into their shop behind Fifth/ Third Bank.

Lenae said that with deliveries and pickups, it’s so much easier to have everything in one location.

The Trotter House to Open in June

With Make Your Mark consolidating its business to one location, their former home will now be the office of the Trotter House. It’s a new nonprofit offering pregnancy services. They will be having an open house on June

Owners: Emily Wright and Lenae Greenwell

Fort Branch.

The new retail space for Make Your Mark on 4th Avenue behind 5/3rd Bank.

Memories is located at 531 S. Franklin in Oakland City.

Gibson County Motors Had Open House

After being in business for 14 years, Gibson County Motors held an open house. They cooked burgers, hot dogs, beans and gave away some prizes. They have around 80 vehicles on the lot located on Hwy. 57 north of Oakland City, most very economically priced.

Winners of the prizes were: Charlotte Smith - TV, Shelby Georges - pool, Andy HurstAuto Zone gift card, Sue LefflerFamily Dollar gift card, Summer Marshal - headlights and John

basket.

Knights of Columbus Held Annual Tootsie Roll Drive

The Princeton Knights of Columbus held their annual Tootsie Roll drive at the end of April. They donate the money raised to help people with disabilities. This is an annual tradition that has gone on for years.

Welcome to the 167th Gibson County Fair!

It is my pleasure to preside over this year’s Fair Board.

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and thank the Fair Board members, Associate members, friends of the fair and all the volunteers for their many hours of hard work and dedication preparing for this year’s fair.

However, it takes more than devoted board members and volunteers to organize and host a successful fair. Thankfully we are blessed to live in a community with many sponsors and donors who make this event possible. Thanks to the generous support of local businesses, we are able to add to this year’s events. On Monday, in front of the free grandstand, we added a Monster Truck Show featuring BigFoot. On Tuesday night, we will host an additional night of our most popular event, the Demolition Derby.

Brady’s Amusements will also have a new ride on the Midway!

We hope these improvements to our schedule will provide more opportunities for family fun at the 2023 greater Gibson County Fair!

Lee Binhack

Above: Ruth and Glen were serving food and chatting with friends and customers. Left: Door prizes that were given away.

Baizath - gift

Romeo took his turn helping Friday night.

Officials from Oakland City University received a $10,000 Duke Energy Foundation grant for a campus garden. The university utilized the funds to build a surrounding fence, purchase a tool shed, install planting beds and finish the beehive colony structures. The garden will be used by university staff members, students, master gardeners and the community.

Pictured L-R are Dave Kelle of Southwestern Indiana Master Gardner’s Association, Amanda Dempsey, Dr. Ron Dempsey President of Oakland City University and Kurt Phegley of Duke Energy.

Recently a new shelter house has been added to Hopkins Park in Francisco. There’s a picnic table and charcoal pit as well.

Written by Mikala Sisson

The Haubstadt State Bank was organized in 1902 by the gentlemen pictured below (left to right): Martin Schaefer, Fred Luhring, Dan Luhring, Alois Ziliak, Fred Heldt, Theodore Stunkel, Geo. D. Seitz, Albert Lynn, W. W. Sipp, and Dr. V. H. Marchand. The red brick bank building was constructed in 1904, on the east side of Main Street.

In the early years, bookkeeping was mostly done by hand, but a posting machine was later added for customer accounts. In 1954, the bank building was extensively remodeled. In 1973, the bank was remodeled again, and an additional 1200 square feet was added to include a drive/walk-up window. By 1980, the town of Haubstadt took over the building and converted it into the present Haubstadt Town Hall.

The shelter is one of many improvements made to the park.

Photo and information from “The Haubstadt Indiana Centennial Historical Book”, 1955. Additional information from “A History of the Haubstadt Area” by the Haubstadt Area Historical Committee, 2002.

Photo: Jancey Smith

News at Lyles Station, Indiana

Joshua Tree and More… Earth Day and Arbor Day has come and gone by the time of this writing. But trees and nature are needed every day of the year. Trees provide us beauty to the eye, oxygen, shade on those hot days, soil preservation and support local wildlife.

Here at Lyles Station Historic School and Museum there are many trees located on the property. Some were donated by local stores, one by a young student who needed a place for her tree, some dropped by birds and some that have been there for years. There are many varieties of trees including Redbud, Pine, Oak, and Maple just to name a few. The Green Thumb Garden Club donated trees two last year for the flower garden, to give structure and beauty to the fenced area. The club donation helped celebrate the 150 years of Arbor Day. This year the weeping cherry tree had beautiful blooms and the Japanese Maple deep red leaf looks perfect. The grandest of the trees is a 200-year-old live Oak tree that appears to be reaching for the sky like the Joshua tree (which in reality is a succulent plant). Yes, you heard it correctly Lyles Station has their own version

~ Recycle Tips ~

Greetings Gibson County Residents! We at GCSW would like to thank EVERYONE who came out to the Household Hazardous Waste Day and County-Clean-Up Events. A total of 435 vehicles came through at the HHW Day Event. Thank you to the Gibson County Sheriff’s Department for helping with drug and sharps disposal. Also, thanks to Toyota for their sponsorship and holding the event at their location, and to the team members who participated. With the help of all involved, tons of environmentally hazardous materials were disposed of properly. Our next Household Hazardous Waste Day will be this fall- we will post the date as soon as it is available.

Summer is here. Gardeners, remember that we still have compost available (free to Gibson County residents) at our compost yard! Next month, we will share some summertime recycling tips. For our operating hours and related information, please visit our website, http://www.gibsoncountysolidwaste.com or our FB page.

Remember to Reduce~Reuse~Recycle

Follow us on Facebook OR check out our website: http://www.gibsoncountysolidwaste.com

of a Joshua tree. The first Joshua tree was named by traveling Mormons in the early 19th century. They compared the large trees to the passage in the Bible book of Joshua, “Joshua reaches his hands up to the sky in prayer.”

Lyles version of a Joshua tree is the anchor to the back gardens, the children’s play area and picnic area of the property. It has many different limbs going in different directions, reaching towards the sky. It provides shade to many who attend the activities on the property or just to those single visitors who sit awhile. A great place to have your lunch break, sit and mediate or just watch the garden grow.

The property also has a Sassafras Grove of trees. The grove area is being transformed into a shade garden with paths through the area. It is a great place for photo opportunities, or just to wander through and look at the new plantings. Please remember it is a “work in progress and transformation. “

Some of the local children (adults now) might remember Sassafras Spencer (stage name) visiting their elementary school. I always remember him when working in this garden. Years ago, I ask my mom why would you name your baby Sassafras? His given name was Kermit Moore, I didn’t know that for many years. Jim Kolb, the principal of Riley school would always arrange his visit. Sassafras Spencer would share his knowledge of Indiana History and folklore. He talked about Sassafras root, Sassafras tea, the use for remedies for aches and pains. Sassafras was used for flavor in Root Beer – we were amazed that all of that from a tree.

I often wonder how he picked his stage name, but it was a catchy name. I remember it after 50 + years.

Annual Sale Sprouted Cash

The Gibson County Master Gardeners held their annual plant sale Saturday, May 13th. This fundraiser helps them spread beautiful plants and flowers throughout the county.

Lyles Station’s Joshua Tree

Article submitted by the Gibson County Green Thumb Club. Photo: Gibson County Visitors & Tourism

A steady flow of shoppers came to gather plants from the Master Gardeners. Photo: Jancey Smith

Attracting Indiana Pollinators to Your Yard

What are pollinators? The easy answer and first to come to your mind, is probably bees, right? But did you also know that butterflies, hummingbirds, moths, common flies, as well as wasps also use nectar for energy, and are also valuable pollinators?

Indiana’s pollinators include 430 species of bees, 144 species of butterflies, more than 2,000 species of moths, and many species of flower-visiting flies, wasps, ants, and beetles too. Not only do pollinators help to pollinate our flowers but they are also responsible for pollinating our food crops. One in three bites of food we eat is due to cross-pollination by pollinators.

While pollinator species vary greatly in the number of different plant species they will use for food, there are two basic kinds of feeding patterns. Pollinators are considered specialists or generalists. Specialists only feed on one plant species, either as adults collecting pollen and nectar, or as larvae feeding on foliage. An example of this is the Monarch butterfly. Their caterpillars will only feed on milkweed. The Spring bee as an adult, will only feed on the Spring Beauty flowers. Generalists feed off many plant species, so the adult Monarch is considered a generalist because it will feed on any available nectar source.

Indiana’s pollinator communities face many threats. In the last 15 years, researchers have documented reduced populations of honeybees, bumble bees, and several butterfly and moth species. There are some things that we as homeowners can do with our own yards to help with conservation efforts.

The three ingredients to a successful backyard habitat are: Food, habitat for shelter and nesting and water.

Plants are the primary food source, and pollinators feed on nectar, pollen and leaves. To provide these things you need flowering plants. It is important to have a diversity of flowering plants in your backyard or

garden, so you have flowers in bloom throughout the entire season. It is best to plant three flowering species from each of the three seasonal categories which are early-, mid-, and late-season bloomers. By choosing at least three from each category, you provide options for different pollinators in each season. Native plants are preferred, so tall phlox are better than geraniums and they love menarda, also called bee balm, and my favorite to grow is short-toothed mountain mint.

Backyard habitats for bees should include patches of bare ground, logs, stumps, last season’s flower stems, and taller grasses and flowers. Where possible, leave bare patches of ground and dead vegetation standing over the winter until mid-May. This will allow the pollinators a safe haven in the winter months.

Water is the third and most important ingredient in your backyard pollinator oasis. Some pollinators can gather water from dew on plants, but during drier summer months providing a shallow basin of water will provide this vital resource. Be sure to place rocks in the basin so pollinators can easily access the water without falling into the water and drowning. Bubble rocks can be easily made with a few items from your local home center or farm store. Using a few flat rocks, a large shallow water container, something like a large dog water bowl and a small fountain pump will allow you to enjoy hosting not only pollinators but birds all summer long at your self-made watering hole.

While it’s wonderful to have beautiful flowering pots on our patios and door stoops, we should also remember our Pollinator friends, and plant native species in our pots and landscaping whenever possible. And if you are very brave, or have a strong dislike for your neighbors, you can tear out your grass yard, and plant a pollinator oasis using wildflowers and other native species to keep the bees buzzing all season long! Happy planting!

P P L : June 2023 — 1940s & 1950s

Pre-registra on for all special programs begins May 25 9-2 & May 30 1-8

Register today beginning at 9am in youth area. Pick up reading logs and register for special programs where space is limited.

Family Make & Take Craft 1pm Paint a Plane

Paint a small plane harkening to WW2

Movie Night Monday 5pm

Pinocchio (1940) Rated G

All Movie Night Mondays are meant to be enjoyed by all. Please assess screenings for yourself before attending.

Family Show 10am

Foam Party in the Park Evansville’s Foam:30 says it’s time to have a soapy & bubbletastic good time! Please make sure to join us in your swim suits! All kids must have parent supervision and permission. Groups will have time in & out of foam.

Teen Tuesday 4pm

Star Wish

Come sing karaoke and have some snacks

Family 1pm

Dinosaurs in the Library!

A Raptor is storming our building! Join us for an awesome afternoon of dino encounters.

Craft Night for Adults 6pm

Wood Gnomes

We will be painting wooden garden gnomes to hang up around the home or even on your front door.

*Pre-registration Required

Family LEGO Saturday June 10th 2-4pm!

Make sure you still attend our regular events throughout the month! Fiber Fanatics, Sewing with Susan, Basic Computer Class, & other general age and adult programs will continue through summer.

Story Time 10am

Story & Activity (kids not started kindergaten)

Dino Story Time

Fun & Games 4pm Dice Games

Fit Club 6pm

Family Make & Take Craft 1pm

God’s Eyes

Dowel rods and cool yarn makes for a timeless, pretty craft.

Movie Night Monday 5pm Bambi (1942)

Rated G

All Movie Nights will have popcorn free while supplies last.

Family Show 10am

The WATER Show!

Magic Don Miller presents the popular fan favorite WATER Show! You WILL get wet! Wear your swimsuits!

Teen Tuesday 4pm

Yarn Workshop & Snacks

Books & Breadsticks 6pm (at Susan Bobe’s Pizza)

Family 1pm Purdue Extension Garden Food Journey

Learn about growing food, digestion, worms, & farming.

Flag Day 10am, 2pm, 4pm LST 794 & LST 325. Learn Gibson info on these ships.

Craft Night for Adults 6pm

I Spy Jar

Story Time 10am

Story & Activity

Gnome Zone with Purdue Extension

Fun & Games 4pm

Card Party

Card games new & old!

Fit Club 6pm

All ages, body types, & skill levels are welcome!

FRIDAY JUNE 16th UNO All Ages Tournament 2-4pm *Pre-Registration Required*

CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF JUNETEENTH! NO EVENTS FOR TODAY! SEE YOU TOMORROW!

For some educational & cultural celebrations on this holiday, visit our friends out at Lyles Station!

FRIDAY JUNE 23rd

Family Show 10am

Real Science Animal Show

Real Science Animals bring real animals for an educational experience like no other!

Teen Tuesday 4pm

*Pre-Registration Required* Make A Bear Make your own bear to take home and call your own!

Movie Matinee 2pm Cinderella (1950) Rated G

Family Make & Take Craft 1pm Picnic Ant Craft

The ants are going to a picnic! Make your very own hard working picnic ant and see what food it might bring back for you!

Movie Night Monday 5pm

Singin’ in the Rain (1952) Rated PG

Family Show 10am

The Pirate Show with Paul Odenwelder

Storyteller Paul Odenwelder brings pirate tales to life! With a little bit of magic & a little bit of luck, we will set sail for a fantastic time!

Teen Tuesday 4pm Wellness Day Windchime sounds & snacks

Family 1pm

*Pre-Registration Required* Make A Bear

Make your own bear to take home and call your own!

Craft Night for Adults 6pm Magnet Craft Paint and glue together cute magnets for your refrigerator or magnet board.

Story Time 10am

Story & Activity

Teddy Bear Time

Fun & Games 4pm Land of Board Games

Board games for all kinds of fun tabletop experiences!

Fit Club 6pm

SATURDAY JUNE 24TH

Play-Doh Party (All age sensory fun) 2-4pm

29

Family 1pm Island Skills

Could you survive alone on an island? Come see if you can make it on your own and pick up new survival skills!

Craft Night for Adults 6pm Free For All

Come pick whatever craft you feel like tonight!

FRIDAY JUNE 30th

Ice Cream Social & Music of the 50s Sock Hop 2-4pm

Story Time 10am

Story & Activity Ocean Adventure

Fun & Games 4pm Story Games

Get your creativity and quick wit flowing with these different story games!

Fit Club 6pm

All reading hours must be in by 8pm, Wednesday, July 26th! Tues

Family Make & Take Craft 1pm

Bug Magnet Craft

Come make a cute little crawly bug for your fridge, magnet board, or new locker.

Movie Night Monday 5pm

To Kill A Mockingbird (1962) Rated PG

Reminder: We will still be offering our regular programs like Fiber Fanatics, Basic Computers, Chats with Charlie, Sewing with Susan, & more! Please check with the library & on our social media for more details.

Closed for 4th of July!

Reminder: Summer Reading registration ends on Thursday, July 13. All hours and entry forms MUST be turned in by Wednesday, July 26, 8pm.

Family 1pm Chalk Art Adventure!

Story telling through chalk art

Craft Night for Adults 6pm

Retro Car Hanger

Paint a wooden car and decorate how you like!

*All craft nights require preregistration*

Story Time 10am

Story & Activity

Sidewalk Fun

Our story time is meant for all little ones who have yet to start kindergarten.

Fun & Games 4pm

Chalk Games

Let creativity and chalk stir up a good time.

FRIDAY JULY 7TH SATURDAY JULY 8TH

All Ages Chalk Art Invitational

Family Make & Take Craft 1pm

Throwback Boomerang

Decorate & see if yours always comes back to you!

Movie Night Monday 5pm

The Sound of Music (1965) Rated PG

Movie Night Mondays are meant to be enjoyed by all audiences. Please assess films for yourself & kids before attending our screenings.

Family Show 10am & 11am

Mesker Park Zoo Animal Conservation Station

We will have one interactive show beginning at 10 for roughly 30-40. We will put the next group in at 11 at the request of Mesker Park Zoo.

Teen Tuesday 4pm Sand & Surf All the cool sand art you could ask for!

Family 1pm Hot Wheels Car Show

These tiny wheels make a big impact! You can even register your own.

Craft Night for Adults 6pm Beach in a Jar

Even if you can’t go to the beach, you can enjoy making your own in a jar.

Story Time 10am Story & Activity Vroom Story Time Fun & Games 4pm DANCE OFF!

Today is the last day for registration! Fit Club 6pm

SATURDAY JULY 15th 10AM-NOON WEEKEND WORKOUT (join all our Fit Club Friends) ALL AGES WORKOUT! Bring the kids! The whole family can participate!

Family Make & Take Craft 1pm

Retro 1970s Velvet Art

Color groovy posters made from velvet to brighten your walls!

Movie Night Monday 5pm

Star Wars: A New Hope (1977)

Rated PG

Family Make & Take Craft 1pm DIY Puppets

Make a hand puppet all your own and bring it to life!

Movie Night Monday 5pm

The Muppet Movie (1979) Rated PG-13

Fiber Fanatics, Sewing with Susan, The Mighty Pen, Chats with Charlie, Basic Computers, Fit Club & Adult Craft Nights will all continue after Summer Reading has concluded. Make sure to watch our Facebook and Instagram pages for more on these year round programs!

Family Show 10am Musician Monte Skelton

One of Evansville’s best musical talents! Some jazz and other recognizable tunes will float through the air. Not a concert to miss!

Teen Tuesday 4pm

Pet Rocks & Shrink Art

Paint a pet rock and make some tiny shrunken friends!

Family 10am Roz Puppets

All the way from Mishawaka, IN, Roz Puppets brings a masterful puppet show to life to let kids see classic tales unfold!

Teen Tuesday 4pm

Vinyl Night Dance Party

Bad dancer? Good dancer? Doesn’t matter! Have fun & dance like no one is watching!

Make sure to have your hours turned in by 8pm tomorrow night!

Family 1pm

Meet & Greet & Movie with Herbie!

Take pictures with a real life

Herbie Volkswagen Beetle!

Then enjoy the 1974 movie Herbie Rides Again!

Craft Night for Adults 6pm

Sensory Bottles

Make your own calming sensory bottle.

Story Time 10am Story & Activity

Play-Doh Party

Fun & Games 4pm Groovy Games & Puzzles

Southern Rail History Special 6pm Transportation enthusiast Steve Alsobrooks explores the local history of Southern Railroad & some personal ties to its steeped past

Family 1pm Silly Safaris

Our end of the summer closing favorite, Silly Safaris will be here to show off all kinds of amazing and beautiful creatures!

All reading hours and tickets due by 8pm tonight.

Craft Night for Adults 6pm

*Pre-Registration Required

Free for All

Come create anything that you would like! We have all kinds of different projects for you to pick from.

Fit Club 6pm Summer Reading Program

Swim Party Grand Finale 6-8pm

Absolutely no drop offs! Children under age 12 MUST be accompanied by someone age 18+. Lightning will cause party to be cancelled. Prize winners will be announced tonight and pickup begins tomorrow at 9am. Thank you to everyone who participated in Summer reading this year!

After months of work and planning, the new shelter house at Lincoln Park in Princeton had a ribbon cutting to celebrate. Many community groups worked together to make it happenCommunity Foundation, Duke Energy, the NGSC, Sheepdog IA and others.

Foster has been gone since 4/19/23. He is a 5-year-old neutered male. One ear does not stand up now due to an injury. He is light tan, has a medium length coat, and tight curled tail. He disappeared from our home: 711 W Morton St., Oakland City, Indiana. Please contact me if you have seen him. Please leave a message at 812-749-8677.

Backyard Birds -

Is it the Spring Backyard Update?

It wasn’t that long ago when we all thought that spring would never arrive. Although it seems spring has finally arrived, it has been a bumpy road temperature wise. We have been teased with the occasional nice day here and there. It seems we have gone through dogwood winter and blackberry winter as well, but it feels like a warming trend is coming. All the wishing for warmer weather has paid off. Our backyards are seeing the arrival of nests that have been built, eggs that have been laid, some chicks have hatched while others have fledged. Spring was just around the corner and now it feels like it’s finally here.

Each year in late winter I start keeping an eye out for my Eastern Bluebirds. I usually hear the husband and wife talking to each other in mid to late February when the choosing of a nest box is the topic of conversation. The nest box must be chosen, claimed and defended. Although I kept watching for weeks, I never seemed to see the actual event occur. A few weeks later I finally found their humble abode with a nest and eggs. You see, I have four nest boxes located around my yard in various strategic locations for what I would think would be a prized bluebird location. This year they tricked me and chose a nest box that I had forgotten about. A location that would be more conducive to a House Wren, but there they were, a fine little nest with five little eggs. They have since been hatched, raised and fledged. All five are now out and about in the yard ready to start their own lives. The next stage for the parents is to finish feeding and raising their youngsters in the low branches of surrounding trees. After a small break they will begin again by building a fresh nest. I have found the new nest in a different nest

box with the nest in its early stages of construction. A second brood is normal but one year I did have three broods of Bluebirds raised in my backyard of birds. My Purple Martins have over 70 nests and more nests are still under construction. Only 30 eggs have been laid at last count but many more eggs are still coming. More updates to come on the final tally of nests and eggs.

A new development for this year is on my back porch, a hanging plant has a nest of young Chipping Sparrow chicks that are being fed by both parents. A bush out in the front yard has a nest of Mocking bird chicks being fed and House Wrens are carrying sticks to their nest boxes.

A new surprise this year is a pair of Tree Swallows that got me all excited. I hadn’t had a pair of Tree Swallows for a few years and a week ago they showed up to claim a vacant bluebird box. They started nest building in a couple of days and had it done in three days. After checking today there were three eggs in the nest so in a couple more days I believe the incubation will begin.

The backyard is busy this year with the ones I can see. Obviously there are other birds that I didn’t list such as: Robins, Cardinals, Doves, Red Bellied woodpecker and a Wood Thrush that lives in the heavily wooded tree line west of me. I think Spring has arrived!

Art by Ms. Addison Potts, 5th grade

Ready to Adopt/Rescue? Fantastic!

Perhaps you’ve already visited us at Gibson County Animal Services (GCAS) and met a dog or cat that chose you as a furever family. If you haven’t, please come out and meet the animals so you (and one of them) can make your choice. We do vet our adoptions and ask for references to make sure that the animals that we’ve come to love go to the best possible home.

Our normal adoption fee is $125 for dogs and $100 for cats, but from June 13-17, ALL adoptions will be JUST $10! That covers spaying/neutering, age appropriate shots, wormer, flea medications, and microchip.

When you choose your new pet, please consider those in the “least adoptable” categories: black dogs and cats, senior pets, and pets with disabilities.These dogs and cats make loving companions, and an older dog or cat may already be housetrained or litterbox trained.

Now, how do you prepare? First, be ready for the 33-3 rule. Many but not all pets will experience three days of feeling overwhelmed/nervous, three weeks to settle in, and three months to build trust and bond with their new family. While it may be “love at first sight,” be prepared to help your new family member make adjustments.

Start off by making your home ready for your new pet. Bring a collar and leash to the shelter with you for your new dog or a crate for your new cat and have food and water bowls waiting at home. You’ll need yummy treats (best to buy made in the USA) and grooming supplies. Designate a “safe area” for your pet; many dogs enjoy the privacy of their own crate while cats enjoy the security of small spaces where they feel safe. Don’t overwhelm your new cat with too many people or places all at once.

You may want to “pet proof” your home by picking up items that might be harmful or that you do not want to be used as chew toys. You’ll also want to move or remove plants that could be poisonous or toxic, such as Easter Lilies and Poinsettias which harm dogs, and Aloe Vera, Pothos, and Jade plants which harm cats. Check which essential oils you are using since some can harm dogs. If you are bringing home a cat, consider your home from a cat’s eye view and provide it with a cat tree and scratching post. Your furniture will thank you, as will your knick knacks on your shelves.

Once you’re home, take your new dog on a tour of his new home. While he’s still on a leash, let him take his time sniffing and exploring his new surroundings. Show him his food, bed, and toys and let him know what’s off limits and where to find his designated potty space in the yard or on potty pads.

On the other hand (or paw), your cat will want some privacy as she settles in, so provide her with an isolated

spot for her litter box and a small area she can call her own for the first week or so. Set up her feeding station away from the litter box (and away from where dogs in the family can nibble on cat food—it is not good for them). Cats need some time to settle in before becoming social creatures, so don’t rush them. If she hasn’t already, she needs to meet the family—both two and four-legged. Let the cat take her time, but if those kittens want to play, then let the fun begin!

Please visit GCAS at 3840 South County Road 175 E., Princeton, IN, and meet the adoptable dogs and cats and maybe a bird or bunny. Call 812.386.8079 for further information or visit us on Facebook or on our website at https://www.gcasonline.org/.

Come see us at our annual Cruzin’ For Critters car show at Lafayette Park on July 2nd! Registration starts at 8:00 a.m. for cars, trucks, and motorcycles. We’ll have food, trophies, and door prizes—and you may go home with a beautiful quilt!

These dogs and cats, along with others, are waiting on their furever best friends—please give them a loving home.

~ Adoptable Pets

Jordyn

Morgan

Jellybean

Judah Fiona

As the Vet Says -

Keeping Your Furry Family Members Safe in an Emergency

We don’t want to think about the bad things that could happen, but it is important that we spend a little time planning for an emergency. Whether it’s a prolonged power outage, flooding, wind or hail damage, or something worse, taking a little time to plan for an emergency now can help to ensure the safety and wellbeing of you and your furry family members in the event of a crisis. Here are a few simple steps you can take to make sure that you and your pets are ready for any emergency that might come your way.

1. Prepare an Emergency Kit. Assemble an emergency kit for your pets. Include essentials such as food, water, medication, veterinary records, identification tags, blankets, toys, and any other items your pet may need. Keep the kit easily accessible in a sturdy, waterproof container.

2. Develop an Evacuation Plan. Map out evacuation routes in advance. Identify pet-friendly shelters or hotels outside the affected area. Reach out to family, friends, or boarding facilities that may be able to temporarily house your pets. For cat boarding, you can consider the Princeton Veterinary Hospital, while the Princeton Pup House provides boarding services for dogs.

3. Keep Identification Current. Ensure your pets have proper identification, including collars with up-to-date tags and microchips containing your contact information.

4. Create a Pet Emergency Information Sheet. Prepare a document with vital information about your pets, including recent photos, names, descriptions, vaccinations, and medical history. Include any special dietary or behavioral needs that could assist caretakers in providing appropriate care.

5. Familiarize Pets with Carriers. Get your pets accustomed to their carriers or crates in advance. Make them feel comfortable by leaving treats or toys inside and occasionally taking them on short trips.

By taking a little time to get prepared, you can worry less about the safety and well-being of your pets during an emergency. Remember, your pets rely on you for their welfare, so investing time in creating an emergency plan will get you steps ahead in providing them the care and protection they need.

Are your pets up-to-date on their vaccines? Do you have current prescriptions for any necessary medications? The Princeton Veterinary Hospital is always accepting new patients and can help keep your animals healthy! Call us at 812-385-2733 if you have any questions, or bring your animals in for an exam - no appointment needed.

Buddy Rogers (left) was greeted by Jim Sexstone, the Director of YMCA Camp Carson.

~ Car Show Season is Back ~ ~ Car Show Season is Back ~

YMCA Camp Carson Held 1st Show

While much of Princeton was hopping around the citywide yard sale or shopping for Mother’s Day, the YMCA Camp Carson held its first ever car show. There were nearly 20 cool rides that came to a nice venue for a car show. Look for it to be back next year.

Fun in Francisco on Mother’s Day

The Francisco Lions Club held its 37th annual car show on Mother’s Day. They had nearly 30 cars in the show. There was also food, a silent auction and Mother’s Day gift ideas available.

GREENWELL AUTO BODY

• Almost 40 years of experience

• Nearly 28 years at this location

• Best equipped shop in Gibson County

• Down draft baked paint booth

• Works with all insurance companies

Commitment to Quality

Complete professional body repair, frame straightening and factory matched painting.

Our goal is to restore every vehicle to its original condition. Painting is done in an EPA approved ventilated Brewco paint booth, guaranteeing an original factory paint finish.

903 S. Main, Princeton 812-386-7411 • Hours: M-F 8-5 joedy.greenwellautobody@gmail.com

Joedy Greenwell Owner

Photos: Jancey Smith

Sexstone checks out the ride made by the event organizer, Matt Schooler. catcher with Groot on board.

The new and the old. A 2004 Chevy Corvette 206 owned by Jeff McIntyre sets next to Caleb Harvey’s ‘56 Dodge truck at the show.

Season Kickoff on the Square

The first car show of the Southern Indiana Car Club season was the 4th Friday of April. It was a cool day but there was no rain and some nice cars came out.

The Marathon Fastbreak convenience store and gas station in Fort Branch has one pump devoted to helping South Gibson Schools. For every gallon of fuel bought at the Titan Pump, .03 cents will go back to the local schools.

Photos: Jancey Smith

Tim & Angie Speedy brought out their 2021 Honda Goldwing.

Rick Kinnaman (2nd left) of the Mustang Mafia car club chats with buddies as Tony Deffendall and Mr. Perry check out the cars.

Each year the Deaconess Gibson Auxiliary awards three scholarships to students in each school corporation that will be going into the medical or health related fields. At a luncheon in early May, the $1250 awards were presented to this years’ recipients. The scholarships are made possible from Life Membership dues and donations to the Memorial Fund of the auxiliary. Donation forms are available in the hospital lobby for anyone wishing to donate to the fund.

Photo:

Davis of PCHS

Deaconess Auxiliary Lunch Returned

After a three-year wait, the annual luncheon for the Deaconess Gibson Auxiliary (formerly known as the Pink Ladies) was held on May 3rd. Members were served lunch by the hospital staff in appreciation for their efforts to help the hospital and community. They took a moment to remember Jeanette Lamar, a member who had passed, with a candle ceremony. Three scholarships were presented to high school students from each corporation in the county. Awards were given for hours of service and new board members were sworn in.

Habitat For Humanity Held Home Dedication

After months of work and wait, Tarren Priestly and her four children were able to move into their new home at South Prince St. on April 28th. There was a dedication ceremony with prayer, snacks, and a Bible presented along with the keys.

The next Habitat for Humanity home will be in Members of the community

T h a n k Y o u !

T h a n k Y o u !

Thank You!

Habitat for Humanity of Gibson County had a landscaping/gardening event for our Partner Families.

Lili Swenson from Master Gardeners helped plan the landscaping project. We appreciate the listed community donations as Habitat for Humanity of Gibson County continues to do projects in our community to fulfill our mission statement to spread God’s love.

Julia Rahman/Executive Director

Master Gardeners/Lili Swenson and other Master Gardeners volunteers included Nancy Harper, David Kelle and Linda Asbury

Nurrenbern’s Landscaping

Hipp Nursery

Maumee Baptist Church

Princeton American Legion/Flags

Old National Bank

Bethel Church Volunteers: Tina Shawgo/Georgia Dillon

Church of God Volunteer: Cynthia VanLeir

Subway Cookies/Manager Janelle Young

Ritter Produce & Mae’s Market

Brandon and Craig Epple

Thank You!

Photos: Jancey Smith

Right: Judy Moore received her pin for 1,000 hours of

Julien, Leia and Jaiden. Photos: Jancey Smith

Left: Sandy Schmits presented the scholarships to the three recipients from the high schools. She is also in charge of doing vendor fundraisers for the group in the hospital lobby and welcomes inquiries.

Left: The newest member of the group, Carolyn Schmit, was awarded a pin for 100 hours of service. They are always looking for more volunteers.

Above: Stephanie Bishop (left) and Carla Jochum (right) swear in new president, Jo Ellen Bingham.

Right: Joyce Nonte was awarded a pin for 4,000 volunteer hours. She has been in charge of the annual geranium sale for the last several years.

Our Community

Clubs & Organizations

Fort Branch Community Pride

About seven years ago, a small group of local citizens were chilling and chatting. Their discussion led to how they could help their local community - Fort Branch. Ideas popped, plans were formed, and thus began the group, Ft. Branch Community Pride. The group has grown to 15 members who wish to make Fort Branch a better place. They strive to improve the area and have events that draw visitors to town.

Three widely known events that the group sponsors are the two Vine Street Makers Markets in spring and fall, and the experience of Halloween. The Sinister Cellar began as a family-friendly haunt held in the old gym. It’s now become a weekend worth of events, including a Zombie 5K run. That first Zombie run brought folks from Nashville and Indy into the town for a visit. That means they’re shopping, eating, and using the local services which help us all.

Some of the lesser noticed improvements the group have done were at Fort Branch Community Park, which is the site for many events. A huge pile of mulch was purchased for the park playground and picnic table areas which took some work to spread. They also rebuilt the bridge connecting the playground side to the park side with the help of Titan Construction. There was also work done on the siding of the shelter house. .

Christmas time is also a time of helping for FBCP. They sponsor pictures with Santa at the Fire Department each year on Christmas eve. One year there was a special need because a 3rd grade student had lost both parents within a week. The group brought toys, presents and Christmas dinner to the family. It’s what a small town community is all about.

There are plenty of improvements that can be done in any small town. Take a look around and take some time to do and make a difference. It’s fitting that FBCP motto is: Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much” – Helen Keller.

The new bridge that connects the park.

The group sponsored a mom & son event recently

Vine Street Makers Market Brought Spring to the Park

It was a nice sunny Saturday afternoon for the Vine Street Makers Market at Fort Branch Community Park in late April. There were many shoppers, a field of vendors and makers. The food trucks had a good day and most sold out. Look for the fall market on October 7th.

Cloe and Dillon Farmer, previously of Two Farmers Food Truck, came to attend the show instead of work it. It appears that Two Farmers have now turned into three with a new baby in tow.

Collectors Carnival Filled the Fairgrounds

The last of April was the first Collector’s Carnival Antique and Flea Market of the new year. It was a record day for the event that broke two 31-year records for attendance during the Friday setup and Saturday early bird shopping times. Over 4,500 folks attended the event at the fairgrounds with every building and spot of lawn filled with 225 dealers. The new food truck lineup has been a big hit as well. The next show will be August 12th.

Photos: Jancey Smith

Princeton Library coworkers

CEO student Blake Smith was

Shelly Willis had her normal

Mollie Ayres from Zia Smoke BBQ paid a visit to Klinkers after

1. Barney had to ride a _______ horse.

A. White

B. Brown

C. Dappled

D. Black

2. Gomer thought he’d captured the prisoner but in reality, he’d

~ Andy Quiz ~

captured __________.

A. Andy

B. Opie

C. Floyd

D. Barney

3. Opie offered to _____ _____ _____ for Miss Crump.

A. Clean the desks

B. Clean the blackboard

C. Take a test

4. At the judo school, the other students call Barney, ___________.

A. Bruno

B. Chicken

D. Superman

For answers see page 15

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