FRIDAY R D
December 13, 2024 D emb r13 024 ec ber 1 er 3, 20 4
DATE: Friday, December 13, 2024 TIME: 9 am ~ 2 pm CST
Light breakfast and lunch will be provided
Formal invitation to follow
thesavedate
TOPIC: Agriculture Today: New Era of Prosperity or Temporary Opportunity?
Small Town Living
Well, it’s been quite a summer so far and it’s hard to believe the kids will be back in school in just days. This month we have all kinds of interesting tidbits for you.
With corn, watermelon and tomatoes in season, the Cooking Corner has some easy dishes with just a few seasonal ingredients for you. How much do you know about coffee? Check out Behind the Scenes to find out all the variations and where to get them. Interested in a little family business history? Look inside for an update on the Kiesels.
Be sure to check out our sponsors and the event section – we still have lots going on in the county. Be sure to support the locals. Grab a cold drink and catch up with your friends and neighbors. Stay cool!
Jancey Smith
. . . ! Jancey Smith and friends Contact us - by mail at 427 N. Hart St., Princeton, IN 47670
| Minton Financial Group
2024 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.
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Amy Sullivan Branch Office Administrator
July and the summer sunshine brought us all kinds of things to do. The month began celebrating the 4th with fireworks and car shows. Then it was a week of the county fair, 4-H, critters, exhibits and just to keep it exciting, a little tornado skirting the edge of the community. As always, we supported our kids, enjoyed some music, helped out our neighbors, and will look back on another month of summer fun.
Enjoy a few pictures that captured part of a fun month. For more pics, check our Facebook page.
On the front cover, a lineup of flags flying for the 4th of July from our local Case IH dealer. Above left: Ten-Year 4-H members were recognized at awards night at the fair. Above right: The amusement rides were fun for many kids. Bottom right: Kay & Larry Turpin’s Ford truck decorated for the 4th.
Outdoor Education
at YMCA Camp Carson
Learning and exploring in the outdoors
YMCA Camp Carson's Outdoor Education Program is designed to provide a safe, fun, and unique education experience for students of all ages in the Tri-State area.
Each school or class has the opportunity to customize their day(s) at Camp Carson with facilitated activities and lessons that focus on Teambuilding, Outdoor Education, and Recreation.
Scan for more info or go to www.campcarson.org/events
Highlights from the Fair ~
Despite one night of nasty weather that canceled the rodeo, the fair wasn’t too hot, not too wet, and was fun for all with a week full of interesting activities.
4-H Highlights ~
Gracie had fun dancing with Dasha during
Bigfoot and Monday night’s
Photos: Jancey Smith
Fair week is always a busy time for 4-H families. It’s long hours, juggling chores, and promoting our local kids in their projects, competitions and quest to do their best. There are more triumphs and photos than space could allow. Congrats to all who participated and know the hard work will pay off.
Left: Rachel Adamson and her husband spent the week at the fair like many 4-H parents.
Right: Amy Koester and her helper presented the Herdsman award to
staying in the wheelbarrow during the Barnyard Olympics.
monster
On right, a couple had fun dancing to Scott Mason & Rickey Byrnes playing on the Midway. tractor pulls Monday night.
Warren Schmitt took a practice picture in front of the curtain before the beef show.
Virginia Rexing waited with her dad for her turn in the beef show on Wednesday.
Brian & Aleah Rexing wait for their championship dairy cow to be shown in the auction.
Running
The Oakland City Lions Club once again manned the post selling their
The
Little Noren got a big kick out of throwing darts at the balloons and winnig a prize.
Members of the areas Masonic Lodges entertained visitors with a clown & balloons.
Broadway Players in the merchant building.
Coach Neiderhaus once again directed parking.
family of Russell & Carolyn
Oakland City Lions Club 58th
Sweet Corn Festival
ENTERTAINMENT
Sweet Corn sold by the dozen at Wirth Park when available
Thursday, August 8
Bubba Wiggles (outside stage) 6:30 pm
Friday, August 9
Bingo (small shelter house) 6:00 - 8:00 pm
Gary Phelps/Johnny Cash Tribute (outside stage) 6:30 pm
Saturday, August 10
Parade line up (Main & Columbia) 9:00 am
Conner Loveless (outside stage) Noon Family Day Down on the Farm GamesSack Races 1:00 pm Egg Races 2:00 pm Miss Cornflower/Mr. Popcorn 2:30 pm
Kids Corn Eating (13 & under - outside) 3:00 pm
Kids Shucking Contest 3:30 pm
Kid Farm Bingo 4:00 pm
Farm Games & Inflatables until 5 pm
Bingo (small shelter house) 6:00-8:00 pm
Parade 10:00 am Rides And Blow Ups - All Three Days! Rock Climbing Wall on Thursday & Friday Nights
Mike Lance & Starbound (outside stage) 6:00 pm
Sweet Corn Festival is the Lions Club major fundraiser and proceeds go to breakfast with Santa for kids, Christmas with Good Sam Nursing Home, East Gibson Food Pantry, dictionaries for East Gibson 3rd graders, other community projects, local youth groups and sponsor of Boy Scout Troop 240. We are always looking for new members and volunteers. For info contact Sue at 812-677-0728 or 65sweetcorn@gmail.com
Gary Phelps
Mike Lance & Starbound
Bubba Wiggles
From Kiesel Bins Sales to Kiesel Enterprises Inc.
Three Generations of a Family Business
Despite being a center for the automotive manufacturing industry, Gibson County is the home of many small businesses. They are people who have seen a need in the community and worked to fill that need. One area where that’s happened is in agriculture. These often turn into family businesses that are passed through the generations. One such business is Kiesel Enterprises. For fifty years and three generations, the Kiesel family business has gone from Kiesel Bins Sales to Kiesel Enterprises Inc.
In 1974, Elmer Kiesel started helping fellow farmers build grain bins after buying George Douglas grain bin business as a side gig, while farming full time. He began working from the family farm in south Fort Branch and over the years enlisted the help of almost all of his and Dolores’ 15 children. At one time or another - Larry, Dave, Kenny, Randy, Doris Baehl, Greg, Tracy, and Mark have helped the family business or farm in some way. They also have several long-time employees who have been there for years including in-laws, cousins, and uncles. Adam Will who is now their millwright foreman and lead crane operator has been there for 24 years, and his younger brother Bryan Will, with 20 years of experience, is the
Story: Jancey Smith
Photos: provided
concrete foreman and assists in sales.
After graduating high school in 1978, Randy joined the company as did his younger brother Tracy, who was still in high
Tracy, Elmer & Randy
and moved it to Hwy. 41 and County Rd. 550, where they became a Butler Bin and Chief Building dealer. Today, this is where the cloverleaf just south of Toyota is located. In 1996, the business became incorporated and Randy moved “Kiesel Enterprises” to its current location on Hwy. 41 and County Rd. 100 West, atop a hill overlooking the farmers that they serve.
Over the years, Kiesel Enterprises has continued to
expand its services and products. It may have started as simply building grain bins, but now covers all aspects of grain handling and drying. They’ve been working with Shivvers grain drying systems for 30 years, all made in America, specifically Corydon, Iowa. They’ve also worked with Brock grain bins since 2000. Shivvers also manufactures the Country Clipper Zero-turn lawnmower, which Kiesel has carried since 2004. It’s a perfect fill-in during the off season. They have been recognized as a top 10 Country Clipper dealer, and brother Greg Kiesel is their mechanic, lawnmower technician, and salesperson.
Kiesel Enterprises is the only grain bin installation service in Gibson County and covers a 200-mile radius in the tristate, with some locations as far as 3 hours away. They not only deliver and install bins, which takes cranes and semis, but they also service and maintain the drying systems once they are installed. They help with all aspects of transporting the grain from the the truck to the farm system.
A wide supply of various parts like augers, belts, pulleys, and gearboxes are always in stock. Instead of
trying to persuade someone to use certain parts, they try to keep the system continuous for better performance. That’s why every project is different and Kiesel does custom installations. All of the facets of building bins, maintaining the drying systems, and service are done by just 20 hard- working employees, many of them family.
Spring and fall harvest are always the busiest seasons, because sytems break and stuff just happens. But Because no one wants an SOS call at that time of year, the folks at Kiesel have a preseason service schedule that includes a checklist to help inspect parts and processes, from inspecting belts, greasing the bearings, to testing electrical parts. It saves time so that farmers are ready for fall.
In April 2021, Randy passed the torch to his nephew Matt Rexing. He and his wife Katerina are now the third generation of owners of Kiesel Enterprises. Matt worked on the family farm until he began working at the family business in 2010 and has been in every department, starting as Tracy’s electrical assistant for seven years, then moving on to bin building, millwright and concrete.
Continued next page
Kiesel continued ~ 41. The state will be installing a J-turn just down the road, and traffic headaches and back- road driving are inevitable. Patience will be required.
Having experience in all aspects of the business prepared him to take the reins as foreman, salesman, office director and owner.
With the new ownership, Matt has moved a few personnel around, especially since someone had to take his spot in building the bins. For the most part, Kiesel Enterprises is still the same friendly family we’ve known for years. They do have plans to add an additional building for storage and at some point maybe update the office area. The biggest test that the new owners may face is the highway work being done on US
Because the family business is local and our friends and neighbors, they also believe in helping the community. Kiesel Enterprises are big fair and 4-H supporters and participate in local festivals. They were also integral in helping get new air conditioner units to the top of the Senior Center when theirs went out.
Watch for their open house held in April, and go meet a family that’s been helping farmers and the community for years to see how the tradition continues.
Katerina, Linc & Matt Rexing: the next generations
Behindthe Scenes
Story: Chase Beadle & Photos provided
Coffee 101 ~
With Our Local Portside Coffee
of Food Favorites
It has been said before that coffee is the elixir of life. Coffee has woven itself into almost everyone’s life in one way or another. From its fresh taste to its breathtaking aroma, it has become such a vital part of our lives. So much so, that on average, we spend over $2,000 a year on coffee per person. But to some of us that are not big into the world of coffee, it can be a complex realm that can bewilder and confuse those of us that are new to it. I, myself, shudder at the thought of ordering something at a Starbucks due to being overwhelmed with everything I see. Isn’t coffee just coffee? Well, there is much more to this. A local establishment called Port Side Coffee Company popped up in Princeton and is making an impact to our understanding of coffee. They offer coffee from all around the world and so much more.
Port Side Coffee Company came around Princeton a couple years ago and has been providing us with fresh-brewed coffee ever since.
Port Side’s selection is one to behold with choices of coffees from places such as Africa or South America and tons of others. You can also get a wide variety of roasts. There are many different roasts of beans. You can go from light to dark and even hit many different points in each category. To explain further, the lighter the roast the higher the caffeine content you are keeping in the bean. The darker the roast is, the more you have roasted out those elements of the coffee bean. The darker you go, the more earthy and robust the cup will be. The lighter your roast is the “brighter” the flavor will be. In other words, more fruity and more acidic in taste.
Port Side also offers different styles of coffee. First and foremost, they offer drip coffee. This is your standard coffee that most people brew at home with a coffee pot. Next, they offer a
French Press. This is a type of immersion brewing. They soak coarsely ground beans in almost boiling water and let them steep for 4-7 minutes before pressing the grounds through the water with the metal filter and plunger in the French Press equipment. This method gives a more full-bodied and stronger coffee than drip coffee. Now I know what I am going to be ordering. When ordering in a coffee shop, expect to wait 8-10 minutes for a French Press coffee. You can choose from any of the fresh roasted beans for this type of coffee. Thirdly, they have what’s called a Pour-Over. This involves pouring steaming hot water over the grinds that are in a filter that is suspended over a cup or pitcher that the coffee will drip into. This is a simple method of making coffee and yet it is less acidic than many other methods of making a hot cup of coffee. If you have a sensitive stomach, this is one of the methods of making coffee that might work for you. Ordering a pour-over in a coffee shop will require some extra wait time, just like a French Press. You can also pick your preferred bean when ordering this in Port Side. Port Side also offers espressos. Espresso is when a smaller amount of almost boiling water is forced under pressure through finely ground and compacted coffee grounds. Espresso is generally thicker than other coffees and will also have a much more concentrated flavor than other coffees. Espresso can be drunk on its own or in cappuccinos, macchiatos, americanos, or lattes to name a few. Lastly, they offer the very popular iced and cold brew coffee. Iced coffee is pretty easy to understand. It is drip coffee chilled and then served over ice. Cold brew coffee has a little more to it. Cold brew is made by steeping coarse ground coffee in room temperature water for several hours. Then you strain the grounds, and your coffee can then be put in the refrigerator to chill. You can drink cold brew as it is or pour it over ice. Cold brew extracts the flavors and caffeine of your coffee to give you a rich and well-rounded cup of coffee. Cold brew is another method that is a good choice for someone with a sensitive stomach. At Port Side they always try to have
125 W. Broadway, Princeton 812-635-0526 Fall Fundraiser Season Will be Here Soon!
their own cold brew and iced coffee ready for customers to enjoy.
In addition to these, Port Side does also offer teas, lemonades, and other specialty drinks along with several snacks to choose from. Upon walking into Port Side, you will notice their menu across from their register. They have a wide variety to choose from and taste. From talking with Stephanie Downey, the owner, she reveals that it may seem overwhelming when you first come in, but not to be scared. She goes on to state “we just want people to get an enjoyable drink and have a good experience. We are always willing to talk a new customer through our menu and options when they ask.” For beginners, lattes, which are espressos with steamed milk, are their most popular drink, and they do have many flavors. They do occasionally have new drinks come out too so your options will keep expanding. Currently, some flavors they have created are S’mores, Cinnamon Roll, or Butterbeer lattes, just to name a few popular ones.
The atmosphere in Port Side is peaceful and relaxed; a great place to order and indulge in a great cup of coffee. For those who have never been, I would recommend it. The coffee is great, and the vibe you get while sitting inside is very pleasant. For those who are not big into coffee but want to know more, this is a great place to start. From friendly staff to incredible flavors, you won’t be disappointed.
Get your fundraiser on the schedule! For more information email Stephanie at portsidecoffeecompany@gmail.com
Mon-Fri: 7:30-2 • Sat 7:30-12 Closed Sunday
Mark Your Calendar for Upcoming Events in Owensville
Watermelon 5K -
Saturday, Aug. 3rd • 7:30 am
Late Registration 6:30 am -7 am Registration Fee:
$25 Adults, $10 Kiddie Run
NerfWar -
Sunday, Aug. 18th • 2 pm
Owensville Carnegie Library Lawn
Cost: $5 includes Nerf Gun & Bullets rental, $3 bring your own gun, bullets provided
Hens & Hops Dinner & Beer GardenSaturday, Sept. 28th • 5pm-11pm
Located at Owensville Ballpark
Smoked Chicken Dinner (1/4 Chicken, 2 sides, roll & drink)
$12 presale, $14 at gate
Live Band: Hard Sunday
www.portsidecoffeecompany.com
The French press
The Pour-over
To be honest with you, there have been days when I felt like today would never get here. I have never been a patient man, but these past four and a half years have been an exercise in just that… patience!
You will probably have to think back on this but, if you go back to early 2020, I told you that U.S. law had authorized a major change to a veteran’s death and burial benefits. Due to the proliferation of cremations in recent years, an honorably discharged veteran would now be authorized the issuance of a decorative urn in lieu of a headstone or bronze marker if they were cremated. This policy would be retroactive back to the passage of the original law (1 October 2019). In other words, it may be ordered for any eligible veteran who passed after that date so long as they have not yet received a headstone or marker. I never dreamed that it would take so long to implement, but it is finally here.
Effective immediately, if the veteran’s remains are cremated and NOT interred (buried or placed in a columbarium), a family may now apply for a
commemorative urn to hold the remains and honor the vet’s service. It is important to note however that, in choosing the urn option, the family waives the right to a government-furnished headstone or marker, and to the privilege of burial in a national or state veteran’s cemetery. The VA has also taken the position that there will not be exceptions to this policy, so it is imperative that the family thoroughly thinks the issue through. It appears there will be no do-overs.
I can still hear my dad’s voice telling me that the time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining. Can I encourage you to get your affairs in order now and discuss these options with your family to ensure that your wishes are understood and honored when the time comes? Along those lines, please ensure that you have your discharge (DD Form 214) and that your family knows how to access it. There is nothing more heartbreaking than having to deny a family the military honors that a veteran deserves simply because we cannot quickly validate their character of service. If you don’t have it, contact me and let me assist you in getting a copy. It’s the smartest thing you’ll do today.
IF you see your County Commissioner(s) out and about, please thank them for allowing me to do what I do. I cannot think of anything I’d rather do than serve America’s heroes, the veterans of our Armed Forces.
The Center for Seniors Opens Food Pantry
Taste
Chris MacKay from Sheep Dog Impact Assistance made a blessing box from recycled wood.
Monday, July 8th, was a busy day at the Senior Center. It began with the Food is Medicine Program put on by Purdue Extension, the Gibson County Health Department, Legacy of the Garden, and Cox Farms to provide over 50 bags of food. Later that day, the Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for the opening of the new senior food pantry. Former board president Bill Tuley was honored with a plaque and picture in the chapel. The Master Gardeners remembered a recently lost member.
Food Is
Program to the seniors.
Deaconess Gibson Foundation
Welcomes New Smiling Face
Lori Martin recently joined the Deaconess Foundation team as the Foundation Development Officer at Deaconess Gibson Hospital in Princeton. She began her career in sales and marketing over 20 years ago. Lori has a strong sense of community and loves helping others by volunteering with Junior Achievement and being a member of the Lady Elks in Princeton. She currently serves as Vice President of the Gibson County Chamber of Commerce and is President of the Chamber’s Foundation. Lori will be a tremendous asset to the Deaconess Foundation.
New Food Truck Comes to the Area
Twenty-year county residents Mitch and Amanda Wallace opened a new coffee truck in March. They travel the county to bring unique flavored drinks to the area.
PARTENHEIMER, KINKLE & PARTENHEIMER MICK
her mom Amanda at the window and create new flavors.
Diane Hornby, Kevin Cox and Juli Slade helped bring the
Medicine
Nancy Harper spoke for the Master Gardeners who donated a bench and plaque for Maddy Mitchem.
DeAnthony Jamison of Legacy
of the Garden provided
The Look Alive coffee truck can typically be found at NAPA in Princeton on Sunday afternoon.
The Cooking Corner
Story & photos
Jancey Smith
Simple Summer Food
This is a great time of year for food. The local gardens are popping with fresh veggies, grills are sizzling, and smokers are rolling with summer fare. There are fairs, festivals, and cookouts to enjoy in the sunshine. Always appreciate the benefits of summer while we can.
Life gets busy and the weather is toasty, so simple dishes with minimal cooking times are perfect for the season. In our corner of the world, tomatoes, corn, and melons are starting to pop in abundance. We’re so lucky to have such a selection of local producers to patronize.
Over the last few weeks, I’ve been on the search for ways to use fresh items. While watching food TV, I came across a way to do a grilled blooming onion without the deep-fried calories. I found it interesting, the horseradish dipping sauce lovely, but it was just a little chewy, so back to the drawing board. But in all fairness, I baked it in the oven instead of grilling it. Our outdoor cooking appliances are on the fritz. Ugh!
With my morning coffee, I often check out the recipes sent from a national newspaper’s food section. To be honest, they have so many dishes that I’ve never heard of and would have nowhere to get the
ingredients without great expense, that I find them more interesting than useful, but I’m still curious. One day the recipe for Korean corn cheese came across the internet waves and I was intrigued by the “5 ingredient recipe” using corn. Yes, just corn, mayo, mozzarella, onion, and a touch of sugar.
This turned out to be a favorite of the family and so simple. However, my pictures weren’t pretty, and I did not exactly follow directions (surprise!) The kitchen was warm and I did not opt for 2 more minutes under the broiler to make it look pretty. The taste was great so that was enough for us.
While checking out a newsletter from an area grocery store, I explored the idea of a watermelon berry salsa. It had only a few simple ingredients, and melons and peppers are just getting to peak season. It seemed so simple, and it was. Once the prep was done, this was a very easy dish with such bright flavors thanks to that little spritz of lime. It was a nice cooling dip on a chip with tacos or it could be an option to top over some salmon or chicken. Aren’t easy options always great?
Korean Corn Cheese
Ingredients -
Gabe’s Rolling Smoker is Coming -
Place your orders early with the Deli Aug. 9th - 10th Sept. 6th - 7th Oct. 4th - 5th
2 ears of fresh corn
1/4 cup Mayo (not salad dressing)
4 oz. shredded mozzarella
2 T. red onion, diced fine 1 tsp. sugar
salt & pepper
DirectionsPreheat oven to 425 degrees. Spray coat or grease a small baking dish. Remove silks and husks from corn. Wash and slice kernels off the cob. Place all ingredients in a small bowl and mix to combine. Pour combined ingredients into dish and bake for 10 minutes.
Serve warm with chips. Makes 4 servings.
Tuesday:
Wednesday: SOUTHWEST CHICK EN
Thursday: SALISBURY
Note - the recipe that I tried to follow called for returning the corn to the broiler for 1-2 minutes. The kitchen was hot enough so I skipped that step, not caring about a light brown topping. Don’t skip the little extra sugar though, it really brings out the sweetness of the corn.
Melon Berry Salsa
Ingredients -
1 cup watermelon, chopped fine
1/2 cup strawberries, chopped fine
1/2 jalapeno, seeded and diced fine
1/4 cup red onion diced fine
1/4 lime juice
salt and pepper
Directions -
Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and squirt with lime juice. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve. Makes 4 servings.
Good as a side dip with chips or cinnamon pita chips or as a topping for grilled fish or chicken. Saves for up to 3 days chilled.
ROGERS HOME EXTERIORS
Left: Niki Stivers, Whitney Stivers & Rachael Anthis celebrate Whitney’s 4th place on both double mini and trampoline and her 7th place in tumbling.
Local Gymnasts Compete at Nationals
Photos: provided
The Princeton Gymnastics Club’s competitive team of 20 athletes participated in the United States Tumbling Association (USTA) National competition in Louisville, Kentucky, the week of June 17th. There were 130 teams, 2,400 athletes and almost 5,000 events during the week-long national event. There were a few National Champions, and 13 athletes reached the podium for awards. Next year’s National Competition will be in South Dakota.
Lainey Saum’s expression as she and Coach Rachael see her score of 7th out of 53 girls on double mini.
Coach Rachael Anthis was so excited that Cruz Stafford took 1st place at Nationals on the double mini.
Rena Slay was the National champion on double mini and trampoline in her class.
Above is the local gymnastics team at the National USTA competition in Louisville, Kentucky.
Community Helps with Tornado Aftermath
While 4-H families were at the fair with animal judging on Tuesday, July 9th, a tornado grazed the western edge of the county towards Johnson. Countless trees were down, roads were blocked, and power was out, but our friends and neighbors came together to help each other out.
Over the last few weeks, numerous neighbors, community organizations, churches, and local businesses have all contributed to the cleanup. Kudos to all who have helped.
Homeowner Sheila Hargis of Owensville, Chris MacKay, Autumn Green, Brad Saum, Bryson Hatton, Iziah Saum, Steve Stoldt, in front Russ Green. (Photo: Chris MacKay of Sheep Dog Impact Assistance)
Adopting & Caring for Blind Cats
Adopting a special needs cat requires special individuals willing to spend extra time with their new furry family members, and blind kitties fall into that category. With a little time and dedication on the part of “hoomans,” blind cats can adapt to a new home fairly easily.
While some cats may be born blind or lose their vision due to a physical injury, medical condition, or accident, high blood pressure is most frequently the cause. If this is the case, Muffin’s eye will appear cloudy, with the pupil dilated even if in bright light. Cats can develop cataracts or glaucoma, as well.
Cats who gradually lose their sight will compensate as the blindness progresses, so their humans may not notice right away. However, if Muffin suddenly goes blind, she may exhibit dramatic behavior changes, unwilling to leave her sleeping area and “miss” the litter box. She may display hesitancy when walking and need more reassurance, meowing more.
Juenell Owens
bed or crate, and litter box, don’t move them. These provide her with points of navigation.
If you have other pets, hang a bell on their collars so they won’t startle Muffin. Another pet may serve as a companion for Muffin, helping her learn her way around the house and avoid trouble.
When you adopt a blind cat, the shelter will tell you, if the information is available, what caused the blindness and if any special treatment is needed, if Muffin knows any special commands, and anything that stresses Muffin or makes her nervous. You need to be prepared to deal with these issues.
Our sweet Banshee arrived at Gibson County Animals Services (GCAS) as a stray, so we don’t know his story but do know that he is a very loving cat. He gets along well with other cats, is litter box trained, and would make a wonderful companion.
Adopting any pet should involve preparing your home ahead of time, especially for a blind pet. Don’t worry about looking silly; get down on the floor and go through the house removing obstacles and installing baby gates to keep Muffin in a safe area as she acquaints herself with her new home. Block off staircases, balconies and other areas where she could fall. She will need supervision going up and down stairs until she can navigate them naturally. Start her in one room as her “safe” place and gradually extend her boundaries as she settles in.
Use texture to help Muffin recognize different areas of the house. You might put a rug under her food and water bowls so that she knows she is in her dining area while a different textured rug may signal that she is approaching stairs or a doorway to a different room. After you establish the location of her food & water, pet
Muffin may be blind, but she is still a cat and wants to play. Give her noise-making toys that she can find easily and toys that dispense treats that she can recognize by smell. Be sure to talk to Muffin, too. Hearing your voice will reassure her and let her know where you are, especially when you are approaching her or picking her up.
Those long whiskers on Muffin’s face will help her to navigate, more so than a sighted cat. She will rely on her senses of touch, scent, sound, and memory to find her way around her home. While blind “hoomans” may use a white cane to navigate, Muffin may use her tail, with the tip touching the ground to help her to navigate, and she will listen for sound echoes.
Avoid rearranging furniture. Muffin will memorize heights and distances around the house. She will not jump on objects but may climb onto them instead. Definitely don’t let Muffin outside where she will be at risk of wandering off or being attacked. Adding a cattery/ catio to your backyard would let her enjoy nature and fresh air while keeping her safe.
Many of us want to be helpful and might pick up a blind cat and carry her around, This can prove disorienting for Muffin, but if you have to pick her up, place her down in a familiar place on the floor, such as her sleeping area or near her food and water bowls. Placing her on a raised surface such as the couch may disorient her and lead to a fall. Muffin would be agreeable to simply lifting her onto a couch or bed that she is familiar with and can navigate.
We enjoyed meeting you when we were out and about at the Haubstadt Summerfest and the Farmer’s Market—thanks to all who stopped at our booth and purchased salsa, yummy pupcakes, treats, and other items. Your support helps us to take better care of our furry guests and takes us a step closer to the muchneeded new shelter. It won’t be long before we host our annual Open House (think chili, lots of chili!) on October 5th.
We hope you visit us and meet your furever friend— maybe it will be Banshee.
Banshee
Collectors Carnival
Antique & Flea Mkt
Gibson County Fairgrounds
Saturday, Aug. 10th
9 am-4 pm $2/person
7-9 am $5/person
Homecoming
Owensville Nazarene
Church, Owensville
Sunday, Aug. 4th
9 am worship
Lunch to follow
pageSee 21 detailsfor
What’s Happening!!
Food Trucks
Owensville Square
Aug. 12thDNT Concessions
Trivia Night Fort Branch
VFW Post #2714
Bunco Night
Princeton Moose Lodge Thursday, Aug. 15th
Ice Cream Social
Patoka Presbytrian Church
Aug. 17th, 4 pm - 7 pm
Burgers, hot dogs, homemade ice cream & desserts
LocalFestivals & Events
~
Owensville Watermelon Festival -
August 1st-3rd
Jasper StrassenfestAugust 1st-4th
St. James Summer Social -
Sunday, August 4th, 10:30am
Chicken/Beef dinners, Burgoo, raffles
Oakland City Sweet Corn FestivalAugust 8th-10th
Evansville Frog FolliesAugust 23rd - 25th
Aug. 26thChef Bruce Li pageSee 5 detailsfor
Friday, Aug. 9th, 7 pm, Kitchen open
Euchre at Library
Chapter #2 Building
Owensville Library Wednesdays 11 am
Texas Hold Em
Princeton Moose Lodge Saturday, Aug. 17th, 6 pm
FREE Yard Sale
Patoka Methodist Church Saturday, Aug. 3rd 7:30 am - 10:30 pm
Wine Tasting
Sat. Aug. 10th, VFW Ft. Branch, 5:30 pm, $30/person includes food Make reservation Benefit for Relay for Life
Mt. Carmel Ag Days
Uptown Mt. Carmel, IL
Wed. July 31stSat. Aug. 3rd 11am - 11 pm
Duke Boys - Fri. Aug. 3rd, 7:30pm
Dart Tourney
Princeton Moose Lodge Saturday, Aug. 24th
Monday: 8:45 Breakfast 9:30 am - Bingo 12:00 pm - Card Players
Friday: 9 am - Tone & Stretch 9:45 am - Line Dancing 11:30 - Lunch
Music by Andy Russell 8/16
F u n a t t h e G i b s o n
F u n a t t h e G i b s o n Fun at the Gibson
C o u n t y F a i r g ro u n d s
C o u n t y F a i r g ro u n d s County Fairgrounds
Tuesday, August 6th
National Cops Night Out, Midway, 4 pm
Officers connecting with Community, Gaems, Food & Demos
Friday-Monday, August 30th-September 2nd
Annual Labor Day Celebration rides, games, music & more, Parade Monday
Tuesday: 9 am - Exercise Class 11:30 - Lunch Noon - Crocheting (8/13, 8/20 & 8/27) Wednesday: 11 am - Quilters Thursdays: 10 am - Bible Study 1 pm - Art Class/Painting 1 pm - Sewing 8/15
Purdue Ext. Produce & Meat Giveaway - Monday Aug. 12th, 10:30 Day trip to Red Skelton Museum & Lunch at Dogwood BBQ - Aug. 14th, - Senior Center Activities -
Men’s Breakfast - Thursday Aug. 1st, 8:30
What’s Happening!!
~ Help with Food in the Community ~
Souled Out
Saturday
Oasis Church, Princeton 1st Saturday monthly
Sign in - 7-10:30 am Breakfast - 7:30-8:30 am Food Pantry - 8:30-11am Shopping - 8-10am
Haubstadt Food Pantry
New Life House of Prayer
208 S. West St, Haubstadt 1st and 3rd Wednesdays 4:30 - 5:30 pm
Hillside Community
Dinners
828 Archer Rd., Princeton
Monday, Aug. 12th
Call 812-385-2910 by 2:30 pm on Aug. 8th, Pick up 3:45-5pm Delivery if needed
Lord’s Pantry
Vine St., Fort Branch
Every Wednesday
9 am - 11 am
Mackey Salem
Church Community Meal
Third Tuesday monthly 11 am - 12:30 pm
proceeds go to E. G. Food Pantry
East Gibson
Food Pantry
Oak Grove Church, 805 W. Morton St. Every Wednesday 9 am - noon
Food Pantry for Seniors
The Senior Center, Princeton, Wed. Aug. 14th & 28th Thur. Aug. 8th & 22nd 1 - 3 pm
Owensville Food Pantry
303 Church St. Tuesday & Thursday 8-12 & 1-4 pm
Salvation Army Food Pantry
Gibson St., Princeton Monday, Aug. 5th 12th,19th & 26th, Wednesday, Aug. 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th 9-11:30 am & 1-3 pm
Lord’s Table
Food Give Away
Greater Holy Temple, 202 E. Pinkney, Princeton Saturday, Aug. 10th, 11am - 2 pm
Please bring a box/bags
Salvation Army Free Food Give Away
Gibson St., Princeton Tuesdays, Aug. 6th, 13th, 20th & 27th, 9am-10am Fridays, Aug. 9th & 23rd, 2:30pm-3:30pm
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
Patoka Methodist
Men’s Breakfast
Saturday, Aug. 17th, 7 am
203 Spring St., Patoka Third Saturdays monthly
Cruise-In at the Square
Princeton Square
Friday, Aug. 23rd 4:00 - 7 pm
Karaoke Night
Princeton Moose Lodge Saturday, Aug. 24th, 8 pm
Mt. Olympus Lions Club
Meetings 2nd & 4th
Mondays Monthly at Mt. O Community Center, 7 pm
Collecting old cell phones, hearing aids and glasses
K of C Bingo Open to Public every Thursday Princeton K of C, 6 pm
Trivia Night
Friday, Aug. 9th, VFW Fort Branch 7 pm, Kitchen open
Amer. Legion Post #25 Breakfast
Broadway, Princeton 2nd & 4th Saturdays 8 - 10 am
Monthly Car & Bike Show
Mom’s Diner, Oakland City Friday, Aug. 2nd, 6 - 8 pm
DPI Jeep Fest
Downtown Princeton Square Saturday, Aug. 3rd, 11am-3 pm
Food is Medicine Program by Purdue Extension FREE Produce & Meat
Upcoming Locations (while supplies last)
Gibson County Center for Seniors (Seniors only): Starting at 10:30 (after Bingo) - August 12th
Oakland City Columbia Township Public Library: 1:00-3:00 - August 5th
As the Vet Says -
Princeton
Dr. Berkley Hoehn!
Veterinary Hospital is excited to welcome another new veterinarian to our team! Dr. Berkley Hoehn joined Princeton Veterinary Hospital in June.
We are excited to welcome Dr. Berkley back to our team. She worked here for several summers while she was in undergrad and veterinary school at Purdue. Dr. Berkley was looking for a place to come back to southern Indiana to be near family, and we were looking for another veterinarian to join our team. The timing and the fit were perfect!
Dr. Berkley and her husband, Travis, are both from Southern Indiana. They have family in Vanderburgh and Warrick Counties. They are both thrilled to be back close to home where they will have plenty of opportunities to go camping and boating in the area with their dogs, and take their classic car and truck to the local car shows.
One of the things that drew Dr. Berkley to Princeton
Veterinary Hospital was the opportunity to work with both small and large animals. You’ll be seeing Dr. Berkley in the hospital taking care of dogs and cats, and out on farm calls and in our new Large Animal Clinic taking care of farm animals, too!
As always, Princeton Veterinary Hospital is accepting new patients, no appointment needed. Bring your pets in to see Dr. Berkley or our other talented veterinarians and vet team! Call or text us at 812-385-2733, or find more information on our hours on our Facebook page or our website, PrincetonVet.net.
Dr. Berkley Hoehn
Backyard BirdsThings We See and Things We
When we see animals doing unusual things we usually learn something from them. It’s no different with birds. We see them doing something unusual and we learn from them as well. If you have a Hummingbird feeder in your yard, you might attract other birds to it besides hummingbirds. Buzzing around our yards like a big angry bee, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird will most likely feed from your feeder. Precisely buzzing around with a quick dart here and there, these brilliant, tiny, precision flyers with their emerald green and ruby red looked like pieces of flying jewelry.
A few weekends ago, my wife and I were visiting the neighbor’s. While watching their hummingbird feeder, we saw not only the Ruby-throated Hummingbird but something that was very interesting. We saw a strange bird eating at their feeder. After a minute, we realized it was a Downy Woodpecker.
Learn
Now a Downy Woodpecker is pretty small, averaging only about six inches in length, but our native hummingbird averages a little over three inches in length, so a Downy Woodpecker can’t hover and drink like the little hummer does. The Downy has to perch to drink or eat, so looking quite awkward, the little woodpecker was all leaned back and cocked over sideways seeming comical and miserable at the same time. You see the built-in drinking perch for the hummer sits way too close to the little nectar flower. It was much easier to hang from the perch and reach sideways to the adjacent nectar flower. So, like the saying goes, “Nature will Find a Way”. In other words, the creativity for survival wins out in the end.
This was lesson number one, but the next thing on my mind was “How can this little guy be eating at all?”. How could that be? It can’t reach its beak into the plastic nectar flower because the hole is too small for its beak to fit in. So, sure enough, after some research I found the Downy Woodpecker tongue is long enough to reach into
By
the tiny plastic flower for a drink. Actually, all woodpeckers and sapsuckers have very long tongues. Just how long is a woodpecker’s tongue? Their tongues are usually about a third of the bird’s total length or height. It’s a rather disturbing length when you think about it, because you start thinking where does all that length go to once inside the beak. The place it goes to is also another disturbing thought, because the extra tongue length wraps around the skull, going up the back of the skull over the top, and is finally attached at the base of the nostrils. What can all this tongue length be used for? This lengthy appendage serves many purposes such as reaching deep into chiseled wood searching for grubs and such, drinking nectar as we’ve just learned, and it also helps to strengthen the skull, spine and brain by tensing up the hyoid bone muscle to strengthen this part of the head for the intense high speed hammering a woodpecker does. It kind of strengthens this part of the head the same way a seatbelt would hold you to your seat in an accident. So, the next time you see something unusual, pause to take a look. You never know what nature will teach us next.
Guest Writer, Shawn Keith
Gardening Highlights for August
It’s August and what are we thinking about as gardeners? One is the heat and the “dog days” of summer! We do not want to wish our summer away, but when the heat comes a lot has to change with our daily rituals of taking care of our landscape and gardens.
If we are uncomfortable, so are our plants, trees, and shrubs. This is why planning and relocating happen in spring and fall.
Watering is essential and should be done early in the day because of less evaporation. But if you can’t do it early, it is essential it gets done sometime that day. Anything in containers such as pots, baskets, etc. that can only hold so much moisture might have to be watered twice a day.
water keeps you from using products that can be harmful to our pollinators. I believe they love roses the most, but I also believe they will eat most plants.
Continue to fertilize your plants in August, but make sure whatever you use is dissolved completely so you don’t burn your plants. Always try not to get any on the foliage. Remember that over time the nutrients in the soil are used up by the plants.
When leaves curl it is a good indication that the plant, bush, or tree is trying to conserve its moisture. If it has been planted in the spring this year, keep a close eye on it each day to see how it’s doing. Sometimes, with a new tree, you will have to put the hose on it with a slow trickle of water to reach its top root to keep it alive in August. Deadheading is even more important now to give the plant its best chance for survival.
Keep your tall, half-full buckets of water around because the heat does not keep the Japanese Beetles from devouring your plants. Drowning them in soapy
The Magnificent Monarch
Join Charles Kiesel and the Friends of the Patoka River NWR to learn about the life cycle of the Monarch, its struggle to survive, and what is being done to rescue this species.The presentation will be given at the Princeton Public Library at 2 pm CT on Saturday, August 31st. Come learn what you can do to help.
Another important thing to do is, if your plants haven’t grown enough, cover the soil to keep it from drying out. Use something like cedar mulch that will be good for the plant as well as conserve water. When cedar disintegrates, it is good for the plant, unlike some other mulches.
I am a great believer in rocks as the best way to conserve water. Double layers of heavy black barrier paper with nursery-grade rock such as Merrimac. The river rock is a beautiful way to conserve water if you can afford to do it. If you plan to garden for years, you will save money using it because you don’t have to keep replacing it like you do mulch.
The August heat will not stop your hardy mums from putting more and more bloom heads on because they are ready to give you their show come September through October. When planted in the spring, they will be the size of bushel baskets in the fall. Like everything else, be sure to water in their fertilizer. I recently purchased mums in Washington, Indiana, for more color in my landscape in the fall. I have the same anticipation for them in the fall as I have for my first burst of color in the spring from my daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths.
My motto will always be: Plant no more than you can maintain. August is truly the test for the care and maintenance of your beautiful landscapes and garden. I always get back more than I give!!
Melissa W. Mellisa H. Heath K. FNP DNP Asst. Med. Dir. FNP
Sharing the Harvest – Farm to Table Style
I’ve heard from many hobby farmers, city gardeners, and first-time growers that they have way too many vegetables. The zucchini and squash are growing like crazy; one said the cows are getting their overflow. Also, on that list were too many tomatoes, and peppers. If you are one of these type of growers, I hope you will share your bounty with local community groups such as churches, food banks, and the Senior Center. Debbie Walker, owner of Walker’s Hometown Store offered space in front of the West Broadway store for mini farm market booths recently. I noticed two there over the weekend. What another great way to get good food out to the public and share the harvest.
Some of Lyles’ locally grown produce
Looking back 200 + years in Switch Settlement and/ or Lyles Station, each family raised their own foods for the current and upcoming seasons. Seasonal diets for the family were planned according to the harvest. During the spring/summer, their diets had more fruits and vegetables. Those items could be dried by placing them in the sun or heat source. For the winter season, the produce was preserved by methods such as stored, canned, or dried.
The livestock was butchered, usually with a neighbor to cut back on labor and cost. Curing food was done by drying, smoking, or salting. Each method draws the moisture from the foods. Salt curing meats was done by curing meats in salt and placing them in a cool place like a root cellar. The meat was left there for 28 days. Additional salt was added to the meat until it showed no dampness. The meat was then washed, placed in a sleeve or bag, and then left to age. Some families hung the meat to be cured in a room or building with fire pits for smoke cured. For one month, the meat was smoked with wood like oak or hickory, which would add flavor. Most neighbors would come together to share their bounty in community meals at the local churches or with their close neighbors and relatives.
Today food gathering and prep can be very easy; call the local big store for food orders and delivery, or a local restaurant to get something to go. In the era of the Switch Settlement or the early days of Lyles Station, food and food prep were the center of the family’s daily Continued next page
A Celebration Of Locally-grown Food With Live Music In A
Article submitted by Jodi Meyer of the Green Thumb Club.
life. Planning for the next harvest, the next meal, the next month, and the next year was a constant thought for the settlers.
At Lyle Station every year a special event takes place in September, the “Farm to Table” event. The Lyles’ garden’s harvest of vegetables and fruit will be shared with those attending the event. The beautiful grounds of the Lyles Station Historic School and Museum will be on display for those attending. Tickets will be available soon for the September 14th “Farm to Table” event. More information for the event can be obtained from the Lyles Station Historic School and Museum at chariman@lylesstation.org or the Gibson County Visitors and Tourism Bureau. See you there!
Animal Shelter Has New Sign
A new sign has been erected at the site of the new Gibson County Animal Services future shelter. They hope to begin phase one of the building in the fall of this year. Watch for their big fall fundraiser
Duke Energy Sponsored Kiddie Day at the Fair
Duke Energy sponsored and employees participated in the Gibson County 4-H, Kiddie Day at the fair. Children registered at the Duke Energy tent for events and prizes that were awarded during the day.
~ Recycle Tips ~
Greetings, Gibson County Residents! We at GCSW would like to thank everyone who visited our booth at the Gibson County Fair! Congratulations to the winners of our prize drawings; we hope to see you all next year! Summer is still in full swing BUT school will be starting very soon. That means many people will be acquiring new computers and tablets. It is a good time to share some information about electronic waste. E-waste is a term used to describe all types of electronic equipment that has reached the end of its usefulness and is to be discarded—cellphones, LCD monitors, laptops, tablets, monitors and printers, etc. Rapid changes in technology have resulted in a fast-growing surplus of E-waste.
E-waste comprises 70% of our overall toxic waste. Our nation alone now dumps approximately 400 million electronic items per year, and less than 20% of that waste is recycled.
Here are some ways we can reduce the amount of E-waste and properly dispose of items that we no longer use: 1. Check product lifespan before you purchase. 2. Try repairing before purchasing a new device. 3. Limit the number of electronics that you own—look for devices that have multiple functions. 4. Teach kids about E-waste. 5. Maintain what you have so that it will last longer. 6. RECYCLE, RECYCLE, RECYCLE. Many “big-box” stores will accept devices for recycling. Look for ways to recycle instead of sending E-waste to our landfills.
Have a great school year, and remember to Reduce~Reuse~Recycle!
For more information visit us on our Facebook Page: Gibson County Solid Waste OR http://www.gibsoncountysolidwaste.com
Pictured L-R are Duke Energy employees: Robert Whittaker, Jerup Earnest, Ellen Ricker and Kurt Phegley.
From left: Tanner with Thor, Blake with
Photo courtesy Debbie Bateman
2 8
29 Fiber Fanatics 6pm Knit, crochet, & needlepoint! All fiber based crafting welcome
Sewing with Susan 6pm 30
4 5 VU GED 12-3pm
Learn how to get your GED! Call 812- 602-4136 to register
Steve Johnson Art 1pm & 6pm Bob-Ross-styled paint classes. 10 spots open per session. Acrylic painting
Fiber Fanatics 6pm
Sewing with Susan 6pm Machine sewing for beginners & intermediate skills
1 1 12 VU GED 12-3pm
Learn how to get your GED! Call 812- 602-4136 to register
Family Movie Night 5pm Free showing of Ron’s Gone Wrong rated (PG) with free popcorn and water available while supplies last
Fiber Fanatics 6pm Knit, crochet, & needlepoint!
Sewing with Susan 6pm Machine sewing for beginners & intermediate skills
1 8 19 VU GED 12-3pm Call 812- 602-4136 to register
Forgotten Schools of Gibson County 6pm Allen Burr presents on schools of Gibson County prior to 1960s consolidation
Fiber Fanatics 6pm
Sewing with Susan 6pm
2
26 VU GED 12-3pm
Learn how to get your GED! Call 812- 602-4136 to register
Fiber Fanatics 6pm Knit, crochet, & needlepoint!
Sewing with Susan 6pm Machine sewing for beginners & intermediate skills
SEPTEMBER 2015
31 Charlie Kiesel Presents 6pm UFOs and UAPs Finale. Odd events and sightings in the night sky! What could they
6 7 VU GED 12-3pm
Learn how to get your GED! Call 812- 602-4136 to register
Adult Craft Night 6pm Back by popular demand, this month we will be featuring Blind Date with a Craft! Come grab a readily supplied bag filled with everything you need to make a fun at home craft! While supplies last!
Charlie Kiesel Presents 6pm Monarch Butterflies! Learn about their migration and how to attract them to your yard to help them along their journey!
13 Ryan Null: Local Author 5 -7pm Local Haubstadt author Ryan Null will be signing books & answering questions on The Flare Chronicles
14 VU GED 12-3pm
Learn how to get your GED! Call 812- 602-4136 to register
Friends of the Library Mini Book Sale 9am-8pm
We need more room mini sale! Random book assortments available for 2 days!
Adult Craft Night 6pm Blind Date with a Craft
15 Friends of the Library Mini Book Sale 9am-8pm We need more room mini sale! Random book assortments available for 2 days only!!
Euchre Players 1:30pm Great for experienced players and beginners!
16 17 Senior Saturday 10am-2pm
If you or a loved one is a senior citizen in our community and you are wanting to learn more about your benefits and resources, today is for you!
Library Board of Trustees Meeting 4:15pm Open to
Kiesel
1. A choir without its tenor, is like a star without its _____.
A. Shimmer
B. Shiner
C. Flicker
D. Glimmer
~ Andy Quiz ~
2. Andy decided Opie needed to be the ‘Keeper of the _____’ instead of the ‘Keeper of the Candle and Matches’.
A. Flashlight
B. Reflector
C. Flints
D. Lightening Rod
Happy Trails & Best Wishes to Chad
Chad Butts was ready to help at the Gibson County Fairgrounds.
After 32 years as a firefighter that included seven years as volunteer for the City of Princeton, Chad Butts gave his last call on Friday, July 12th. A retirement party is to be held at the Princeton Knights of Columbus at the end of July. Many well wishes were given by his fellow firemen.
3. What vegetable did Andy and Barney find in the back seat of Ronal Bailey’s car?
A. Potatoes
B. Celery
C. Broccoli
D. Parsnips
For answers see page 22
Continuing the Tradition
Two grandsons of key members of the service community, Jeramy Eaton and Bobby Embree, are continuing the family tradition. Jeramy is the grandson of C. L. Long who was a founding member of the Gibson County Rescue Service. Bobby Embree is the grandson of 22-year Fire Chief Robert Embree who worked for the Princeton Fire Department for 40 years.
Photo: Jancey Smith
EMS Jeramy Eaton & Firefighter
Bobby Embree
Photo: Jancey Smith
