November 22, 2022 - The Posey County News

Saint Wendel Golf Cart & ATV Christmas Parade

Saturday, November 26 • 6:00 p.m.

Christmas In New Harmony

Fri., Sat., Sun., December 2-4

Christmas On Main Street, Mount Vernon

Saturday, December 10

North Posey to issue $1.6 million bond issue over two years

By Lois Mittino Gray

After two public hearings and comments from financial experts, school board members of the Metropolitan School District of North Posey voted to approve and appropriate a 1.6-million-dollar bond resolution at its November 14 regular meeting. The action was approved by a 4 to 1 vote with School Board Member Vince Oakley voting nay. (see sidebar statement.)

Matt Schumaker, Managing Director of Stifel Public Finance and Jacob McClellan, an attorney with Bose, McKinney and Evans LLP, drove in from Indianapolis to answer any questions the board members or citizens might have at the two public hearings that night. School Board President Geoff Gentil opened the 1028 public hearing first, but there were no responders and he soon closed the hearing. The purpose of this hearing was to delineate possible improvements the money would be used for which are

at a cost in excess of $1,000,000.

When Board Member Amy Will asked if they would have a vote on what projects to spend the money on, the advisors said the board is not locked in to doing all of them, pending their quoted costs, and may add new ideas and suggestions.

School Superintendent Michael Galvin read the published list of projects in the 1028 public hearing announcement found on the school website, state sources, and in the Posey County News. The ‘laundry list’ includes construction of general improvements, upgrades, equipping and renovations to the school buildings of the School Corporation including but not limited to interior renovations including painting, gym ceiling repairs, bleacher improvements, repairs and replacements, railing replacements to the second floor railing at the high school gymnasium, high school hot water heater repairs and replacements, installation of school

fire systems, intercom improvements, playground repairs---upgrades and replacements, exterior door upgrades and replacements at all school buildings, classroom furniture replacements at North and South Terrace Elementary School, energy efficiency upgrades with LED, clock and security/communications replacements and upgrades, roofing repairs and replacements, and other improvements, renovations, equipping, upgrades and repairs to facilities.

Schumaker showed an Assessed Valuation Graph explaining, “It climbs significantly in Posey County and shows significant growth in your tax base, so you can do more projects. More money will be available to us from taxes. The tax rate, however, is not going up.” He estimated it would stay at the 93 cent rate of 2022.

The approved bond money will be distributed over two years’ time. One million in the first year

New decorations greet NH visitors

By Trisha L. Lopez

New Harmony visitors seeking greeting card Christmas ambiance will be treated to new decorations this holiday season.

“It’s such a classy town. It’s a Hallmark kind of Christmas in a Hallmark kind of town. I’d like to keep the classic Christmas look,” said Robin Lewis of the New Harmony Business Associates Christmas Committee. “I remember the swags across the street were made from foil and the green foil kept falling. Every year there was green foil (coming down). I knew we needed some updates.”

Five new swags were recently purchased through a partnership between the NHBA and the New Harmony Town Council. They were installed across Main Street with existing town decorations on Monday as the NHBA Christmas Committee readies for the start of the Christmas in New Harmony Festival next Friday.

The town’s aging decorations…donated second-hand so long ago that current town leaders can no longer remember when they were first used…was an issue that Lewis brought to the members of the NHBA and the New Harmony Town Council over a year ago.

Lewis, a gift shop owner and event planner, has a passion for preserving the town’s traditions. She researched decoration options and drafted a proposal for new items that would enhance New Harmony’s charm and provide a perfect backdrop for the town’s annual Christmas in New Harmony Festival.

She told council members that the town’s Christmas lanterns were “looking a little worn.” She said she’d spoken with the town superintendent to get an idea of what the town has been using…42 lanterns and five skylines that go across the street.

“I’ve been watching for a couple of years. I’ve writ-

NH leaders look to bright future

By Trisha L. Lopez

Members of the New Harmony Town Council were looking ahead at 2023 during most of Tuesday’s meeting at the Town Hall.

No decisions were made, but Council President Alvin Blaylock asked members to consider 2023 appointments for the town’s park board, the Board of Zoning Appeals and the need for a new zoning administrator following the December 31 exit of current administrator Jeff Smotherman.

The need to look into next year’s salaries for elected officials and the need to explore new health insurance policies for town employees were also discussed, but no votes were taken.

Blaylock said council would need to finalize 2023 salaries for each member and the clerk/treasurer. Members asked if salary discussions should be held in executive sessions, but Blaylock said state statute prohibited it. He said salaries could be discussed in special meetings, but not executive sessions.

Council members Roger Wade and Viriginia Alsop said they thought those issues had been addressed in past executive sessions.

would arrive around January and the remaining .6 million in the year after. “We are three to four weeks from the bond sales, so I can’t say the interest rate at that time. It will be about five percent, which is high, but if you pay it back in two years, it will be minimal, perhaps $100,000,” Schumaker noted. “With this resolution, you can borrow any amount,

not to exceed 1.6 million.”

An Appropriation Hearing immediately followed the 1028 Hearing with no commenters, with the exception of Lois Gray, who asked for a clarification on the word appropriation as a “permission to spend.” She was told that is correct,

Oakley explains ‘no’ vote

By Lois Mittino Gray

Members of the North Posey School Board just voted to take out a $1.6 million bond issue over two years since assessed valuation on property has significantly gone up in Posey County and that means more tax dollars. The vote was 4-1 at their November 14 board meeting on three motions: the Bond Resolution, the 1028 list of uses for the funds, and the Appropriations Resolution. Board Member Vince Oakley voted nay on all three motions. He read a written statement to the board at the meeting on his sole dissenting stance.

“I completely understand the need for more funding. This is nothing new and the need is constant. My opposition to this bond at this particular time is based on several factors. I think it is important to state we are only having

Posey residents open heart to Operation Christmas child

By Lois Mittino Gray

Something as ordinary as a pencil can bring light into a child’s life and Posey County residents have been busy filling shoe boxes to make those special gifts happen all over the world. The third week in November, November 14-21, is National Collection Week for Operation Christmas Child. During this period, more than 4,500 drop off centers around the country open to accept filled shoe box donations destined for needy children in poor and war-ravaged countries. The program is under the auspices of Samaritan’s Purse, the umbrella group for the project.

Mount Zion General Baptist Church at 1425 Oliver Road in Wadesville and First United Methodist Church at 601 Main Street in Mount Vernon are the two county drop off center locations.

Pastor Mike Trotter, who has been at Mount Zion for three years, said he was involved in this program before in his 43-year vocation, but it “was never to this extent.” To illustrate how important a shoebox can be to a youngster, Pastor Trotter said his favorite story concerning Operation Christmas Child came from a video his congregation watched a few Sundays ago. It featured a young man named Justin Thomas giving a ‘Full Circle’ speech in a local Posey County church about what getting a shoebox meant for him. The recipient said, being from a family with many children, he would have to use hand-me-downs, often in terrible shape. “I would have a pencil, maybe an inch long, to use and that’s it. When I got my shoebox, it had many brand-new pencils inside and I was thrilled! I am so grateful. It was the greatest gift.”

By this past Saturday morning, over 800 boxes were collected at Mount Zion. Sarah Pierce, Dropoff Center Coordinator for the past five years, efficiently checked in boxes for donors, affixing identification tags with boy or girl and age group listed. Two large rubber bands go around each box which will be checked later at shipping sites and then taped securely all around the lid. The boxes are donated by individuals, many local church parishioners of all denominations, social organizations and civic groups. The St. Wendel Boy Scouts made 300 boxes.

One of Sarah’s favorite stories concerns a local man who comes in with his family every year carrying large sweater boxes filled for the program. “He does it every year to honor his wife’s memory, as this was her favorite project, and the children are with him.”

“We collect and work on this all year ‘round. Our Mission Team orders things we think would be good in the boxes and we buy them from our Mission budget. We buy many red and green plastic shoeboxes to give out,” Pierce explained. “We had a packing party for parishioners Tuesday eve-

Volunteer high school FFA students show off the many filled shoe boxes collected at Mount Zion General Baptist Church for Operation Christmas Child. In front is Sean Schmidt, the club sponsor’s 7-yearold son. The girls are Shelby Lang (left) and Ali Lyke. Boys in back are Ethan Schneider (left) and Cade Pierce. Photo by Lois Mittino Gray

Saying good-bye to Ziggy’s this weekend are, in front: Cassandra Wheeler and Kaylyn Wallace. Middle row, l to r: Brenna Tuley, Jane Lewis, Tammy Zickefoose, David Zickefoose, Keirsten McKinney, and Aidan Persinger. In back: Austin Schroeder and Austin Zickefoose. Photo by Theresa Bratcher

New Harmony businessman Alex Gale stopped to admire some of the Christmas decorations that went up this week in New Harmony. More decorations were going up on Monday. Photo by Dave Pearce

Mount Vernon Kiwanis supports MSDMV

By Trisha L. Lopez

The United Way of Posey County and Mount Vernon Kiwanis recently joined forces to support MSD of Mount Vernon students.

Mount Vernon Kiwanis collected $313.86 and the United Way of Posey County gave $1,000 from a literary grant to help cover the cost to replace unreturned MSD of Mount Vernon library books. Leaders from both groups presented MSD of Mount Vernon Superintendent Dr. Matt Thompson with a check for $1,313.86 at the corporation’s administration office on Thursday.

School libraries are vital resources for students and faculty, but not every book that gets checked out during the school year is returned. Schools are faced with finding funds to replace the missing books.

Kiwanis Secretary Sarah Spurgeon contacted a counselor to ask about areas of need in which the club might become involved. She said she was told that library funds could make a big difference for kids.

She said she talked to building principals who referred her to MSD of Mount Vernon Elementary School Library Director Deborah Addison for more information.

Mount Vernon Kiwanis Club President Jeff Greenwell said club members were happy to support the “worthy cause.”

“Because of this gift many replacement books will be bought for the schools,” Greenwell said.

Kiwanis club officials reached out to United Way of Posey County to ask if the group might like to get involved.

“It seems that lost or damaged books is a problem across many school districts and the question of how to handle this issue is an ongoing decision and problem across school districts (in) our state,” said Keely Winiger, executive director of United Way of Posey County. “We are happy that we could be a part of the mission of the Mount Vernon Kiwanis to provide funds so that MSD of Mount Vernon libraries can put this money towards replacing those books that may or may not ever find their library home again.”

3: 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. - Lighted Golf Cart Parade through town. Line up at Roofless Church.

Saturday, December 3: 6:30 p.m. Pub Crawl. Specialty drinks, music and fun for 21 and over. The Yellow Tavern, the Red Geranium, the American Legion and Sara’s. Sunday, December 4: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. - Holiday House Tour, sponsored by William Wilson Auction Realty. Tickets $20. Available Dec. 3 and 4 at the Information booth in Community House #2, 410 Main Street or online. Houses are Mr. and Mrs. Andy Batt at 1216 Main, Mr. and Mrs. David Brown at 524 Granary, the Double Log Cabin at 324 North Street, The Bicentennial House at 708 Main and the Leatherleaf Inn at 531 North Street.

Sunday, December 4: 3 p.m. - “The Children’s Nutcracker’” presented by The Children’s Center for Dance Education, Thralls Opera House. Sponsored by the Kent and Laurie Parker Family Foundation. Tickets available at the door.

Saturday and Sunday December 3 and 4: Horse and Carriage Rides beside Community House #2, 410 Main Street, $5.

Saturday and Sunday, December 3 and 4: Sat., 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun., 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Christmas Vendors in Ribeyre Gymnasium and Community House #2, Food Vendors downtown. Friday, December 2 - Dec. 17: ending at 2 p.m. - Gnome Scavenger Hunt. 10 precocious gnomes hidden within plain site for you to find. Great family entertainment. First Prize $200, Second Prize $100. Applications available at the Old Mill Mart, 1128 East Church.

Saturday, December 10, the following week. The Big Christmas Party, Ribeyre Event Center, 7 p.m., $30 or Table of 8 for $200, includes your first drink. Live music, appetizers, dancing and prizes.

Additional information and tickets available on visitnewharmony.com and Christmas in New Harmony 2022 Facebook page.

United Way of Posey County Executive Director Keely Winiger, MSD of Mount Vernon Superintendent Dr. Matt Thompson and Mount Vernon Kiwanis President Jeff Greenwell at Thursday’s check presentation. Photo by Trisha L. Lopez

Making the presentation from the Posey County Community Foundation are, in front, Joy Millay, Michelle Walden, Michael Galvin, Mike Crawford, Vince Oakley, Tom Latham, and Charles Carter. In back are Amy Smith, Eric Gentry, Tony Noelle, and Austin Ahrens. Photo by Theresa Bratcher

Joy Millay, PCCF Advisory Board member, presents a check to Hallie Scheu, Principal, St. Wendel Catholic School from the Posey County Community Foundation. Pictured are, Back row: Amy Smith, PCCF Regional Director of Community Engagement and Impact, Eric Gentry, Administrative Chief, Wadesville Center Township Volunteer Fire Department, Tony Noelle, PCCF Advisory Board President

Michael A. Denning, 64, of Mount Vernon, lost his

Kimberly K. Wolfe, 59, of New Harmony, Ind., passed away at the Heart to Heart Hospice in Evansville, Ind., on November 17, 2022 after a long, tough battle with cancer. Kim was born on November 12, 1963 in Mount Carmel, Ill.

Kim graduated from New Harmony High School and the University of Southern Indiana with a degree in Dental Hygiene. She worked at various offices around Evansville and Mount Vernon and loved getting to know her patients and coworkers.

Kim (Mimi to her grandkids) had an unforgettably upbeat personality to anyone who was fortunate enough to meet her. Many of those had no idea who she was, but was no longer a stranger afterwards. Kim loved spending time with her devoted husband Bruce and two dogs Krisy and Ava, working alongside her loving mother at their shop, the Buy U Boutique in Grayville, Ill., and spending time with her family and watching her grandchildren grow up. Kim was always able to generate laughter and brighten days no matter where she was. She simply loved people.

Kim is survived by the love of her life and husband of 34 years Bruce G. Wolfe, mother Mary Bland of Grif-

Clara Jo Clark, 86, of Greenup, Ill., passed away at 3:27 p.m., on Thursday November 17, 2022, at the Cumberland Rehab and Health Care Center in Greenup.

Funeral Services were held at 2 p.m., on Sunday November 20, 2022, at the Barkley Funeral Chapel in Greenup, Ill. Visitation took place from 12 to 2 p.m., on Sunday November 20, 2022, also at the Barkley Funeral Chapel. Burial will be in the Greenup Cemetery.

Clara was born on November 8, 1936, in (Walla Walla), rural Greenup, Ill., the daughter of Conrad and Lorene (Neely) Sherrick. She married Charles Lowell Clark on August 14, 1955, and he preceded her on January 15, 2018. She is survived by her daughter, Gail (Ed) Wampler and son, Rodney (Lynn) Clark; Grandchildren Laura (husband Justin) Roley; Lee (Alyssa) Wampler, Andrew (Alexa) Clark, Reilly Clark, and Michael Clark; Great Grandchildren Davis and Simon Roley and Madeleine

long hard-fought battle with cancer on Sunday, November 20, 2022. He left this world with the people he loved most by his side. Mike was born on February 1, 1958, in Mount Vernon the son of the late Charles Denning and Bessie (Wilson) Denning-Allyn. He married Rita (Cox) Denning on April 1, 1978, and she preceded him in death in 2014.

Mike attended Saint Matthew’s School and later graduated from Mount Vernon High School. He grew up on his family farm. He loved working on the farm and always had a special place in

his heart for the farm. He went on to work at GE/Sabic retiring after almost 40 years. He was involved in many things at Sabic, serving as president of the Employee Activity Association, and was involved in their several open houses. After retirement, he was very involved with helping his son at the funeral home. He joined the Point Township Fire Department in 1978 and was an active member. He also attended the Point Township Church of the Nazarene and was very involved in their activities. Mike made many friends over his life-

time. He was a caring, loving person who would drop anything to help anybody. He was somebody that could be counted on for anything that was needed. Most importantly he was a devoted family man. He was his kids’ and grandkids’ biggest supporter and was there for them every step of the way. He loved his family deeply and would take every opportunity to brag about them. Even when he was sick, he still attended all the kid’s sporting events and was there to cheer them on.

Mike is survived by many people to cherish his memory;

Mary A. Glaser

Mary A. (Uebinger) Glaser, 84, of Evansville, Ind., passed away Friday, November 18, 2022 at Heart to Heart Hospice.

Mary was born in Evansville, Ind., on August 26, 1938 to the late Francis and Esther (Rausch) Uebinger. She volunteered with her husband at Harmonie State Park for 20 years where they met many lifelong friends.

fin, father Larry Bland of Fla., brother Heath (Didi) Bland of Calif., stepsons Lance Wolfe (Joanna Nelson) of Calif., and Travis (Amber) Wolfe of Mount Vernon. Mimi loved her seven grandchildren, Jaclyn Wolfe, Tarah Brown, Malia Crawford, Tyler Wolfe, Kinsley Wolfe, Lincoln Wolfe, and Sawyer Wolfe as well as her four great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be no services at this time, but a celebration of life will be held at a later date for family and close friends. Kim’s family would like to especially thank the kind and caring staff at Heart to Heart Hospice of Evansville. Donations in memory of Kim can be made to the Posey County Humane Society. Online condolences may be made at denningfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Mary served as the school crossing guard at Highland and Harwood Elementary Schools for over 30 years. She was a member of Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Mary was an avid Saint Louis Cardinals fan and loved watching the Hallmark channel. She was a simple woman and enjoyed the simple things in life. Most importantly, Mary was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother.

Mary is survived by her son, Michael Glaser (Jennifer) of Evansville, Ind.; daughters, Michele Hicks (Jeff) of Evansville, Ind., and Marla Smith of Elberfeld, Ind.; grandchildren, Cory Glaser, Hannah Henry (Evan), Blake Hicks, Logan Hicks, Dylan Smith, and Brooke Smith; and several nieces and nephews.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, James “Jim” Glaser;

Larry Eugene Steele, 75, of Mount Vernon, Ind., passed away November 13, 2022 at Linda E. White Hospice House. He was born May 12, 1947 in New Haven, Ill., to the late John H. and Thelma (Blackburn) Steele.

son, Mark Glaser; her parents; sister, Barbara Dallas; and son-in-law, Charlie Smith.

Per Mary’s wishes there will be no public services. A private graveside service will be held at Saint Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

Michael, Michele, and Marla would like to thank Mary’s family, friends, neighbors, and the nurses and staff of the Deaconess Gateway Fourth Floor Ortho Neuro Unit and Heart to Heart Hospice for their compassionate care and willingness to always lend a helping hand.

Memorial contributions may be made to Heart to Heart Hospice, 610 East Walnut Street, Suite A, Evansville, IN 47713.

Condolences may be made online at www.browningfuneral.com.

children, Bill (Kari) Denning, Sara (Steve) Wright, Tara (Chris) Neaveill, Charles Denning; grandchildren, Kaiden Abel, Ava Wright, Reagan Denning, Jaylie Denning, Kendall Neaveill, Landon Wright, Brayden Denning, Paige Denning, and Autumn Neaveill; Mother, Bessie Allyn; siblings, Phillip (Sally) Denning, Cookie (Ron) Bradford, and Ted (Nancy) Denning, several close friends, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife, dad, and brother, Bill Denning.

A funeral service will be

held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, November 26, 2022, at the Point Township Church of the Nazarene, with Pastor Bryan Thompson officiating, and burial to follow in Weiss Cemetery. Visitation will take place from 3 p.m., to 7 p.m., on November 25, 2022, at Denning Family Funeral Home and Saturday from 10 a.m., until the time of service at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be left to the Point Township Church or the Point Township Fire Department. Online condolences may be left at denningfamilyfuneralhome.com.

E. Cooney

Mary E. (Goodwin) Cooney, 76, passed away on November 20, 2022, at Deaconess Hospital. Mary was born in Mount Vernon on August 23, 1946, the daughter of William and Bessie (Willingham) Goodwin. She was married to William J. Cooney, who preceded her in death in 2007.

Mary graduated from Mount Vernon High School in 1964 and went on to attend and graduate college at USI. She went on to spend several years being a special education teacher. She had a special place in her heart and did lots of work for people with disabilities. She also loved to write stories, and poems, reading, studying the Bible, and puzzle books. She was a fierce friend, loved her family, and adored her grandchildren. But most importantly, she loved the Lord.

Mary is survived by her son, Kyle (Jennifer) Cooney; grandchildren, Kelsey Duncan, Tyler Cash, Ally Cooney and Parker Cooney; brothers, Clint, David, and James Goodwin; sisters, Julie Becker and Jenny Hogan; and numerous

nieces, nephews, and greatgrandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband, parents, brothers, Walter McRoy, Marvin Goodwin, and Johnny Goodwin; sisters, Frances Walker and Amy Ewer. A funeral service will be held at 12 p.m., on Saturday, November 26, 2022, at the Denning Family Funeral Home in Mount Vernon, with burial to follow in Saint Matthews Cemetery. Visitation will take place from 11 a.m., until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be left to the Posey County ARC. Online condolences may be left at denningfamilyfuneralhome. com.

Beste faces list of drug charges

Special to the News

A Mount Vernon man is being held in the Posey County Jail. According to information provided by the Mount Vernon Police Department, Scott Beste was arrested on Thursday evening.

In the evening hours of November 17, Mount Vernon Police officers were called to a residence in the 900 block of East Fifth Street in reference to individuals illegally living in a residence.

and Luke Wampler; sisterin-law Dora Sherrick. She is preceded in death by her husband, parents, brother Daniel Sherrick, sister Dorothy Reisner, and brotherin-law George Reisner.

Clara was a homemaker as well as the bookkeeper for their family-owned business, Toledo Plumbing and Heating. She was a member of the Woodbury United Methodist Church, Cumberland County Home Extension, and Cumberland County Nursing Auxiliary. Online condolences can be expressed at www.barkleyfuneralchapels.com.

Larry was a 1965 graduate of Mount Vernon High School and a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He retired from General Electric after 37 years in maintenance. Larry was a member of the American Legion Post 5 and the Mount Vernon Boat Club.

He enjoyed boating, fishing, four-wheeling and spending time at his river camp. Larry also enjoyed going to NASCAR races.

He was preceded in death by an infant grandchild, Nicholas Short.

He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Diana (Riecken) Steele; daughter, Kristen Short (Andrew); stepsons, Kevin Weinzapfel (Angie), Keith Weinzapfel (Katrina) and Kennt Weinzapfel (Jamie); stepdaughter, Kendra

Weinzapfel; grandchildren, Adam and Eric Moore, Collin and Julia Short, Olivia, Jack, Reese and Grant Weinzapfel; Alleina Basham, William, Grant, Cash and Stella Hougland; and sister, Debbie Kost (Dennis).

Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Legion Post 5, 203 Walnut Street, Mount Vernon, IN 47620.

Condolences may be made online at www.schneiderfuneralhome.com.

Upon arrival, officers entered the home and began to look for individuals. Officers made contact with 55-year-old Scott Beste in the attic area of the home.

Beste was arrested for an outstanding warrant for Possession of Methamphetamine, Resisting Law Enforcement as well as Possession of Marijuana. While in the residence, officers noticed several items commonly known as drug paraphernalia. Officers obtained a search warrant for the premises. Upon serving the search warrant, officers located multiple illegal items including glass pipes with Methamphetamine residue, scales, as well as cut corner baggies throughout the residence.

Beste faces additional charges of: Possession of Methamphetamine (Level 5 Felony) Conspiracy to Deal in Methamphetamine (Level 4 Felony) Maintaining a Common Nuisance (Level 6 Felony) Possession of Marijuana Possession of Paraphernalia

Beste was arrested and transported to the Posey County Jail.

The Mount Vernon Police Department was assisted on scene by the Posey County Sheriff’s Office as well as the Mount Vernon Animal Control.

Larry Eugene Steele

Kimberly K. Wolfe

Clara Jo Clark

Michael A. Denning

Mary

Hoosiers Can Expect Higher Prices This Thanksgiving

It’s no secret that prices for consumer goods are on the rise this year and ingredients for the traditional Thanksgiving dinner are not immune. Indiana Farm Bureau’s annual Thanksgiving market basket survey shows that Hoosier shoppers can expect to spend approximately 14 percent more at the grocery store than in 2021. According to this year’s pricing survey, Hoosiers are paying an average of $61 for a Thanksgiving dinner for 10 people, or $6.10 per person. However, Indiana’s market basket price is approximately five percent lower, or 31 cents less, than the U.S. average price of $6.41 per person.

According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, the main driver of the increase is inflation, as well as other factors including supply chain disruptions and the war in Ukraine, with other countries pulling back on exports to protect domestic supplies.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states the food-at-home consumer price index for October 2022, a measure of price changes at the grocery store, increased 12.4 percent year-over-year. Additionally, the current rate of inflation for the average American was at 7.8 percent as of October 2022, according to the U.S. Labor Department. Many consumers have felt the weight of inflation this year, including farmers, who have been dealt a tough hand. While food prices have increased, so have input prices for the farmers growing that food.

“There is no question it’s been a difficult year for both consumers and farmers,” said Isabella Chism, INFB second vice president. “Farmers are used to being nimble and agile in a job that can be very unpredictable when it comes to variables like the weather. But this year is different. Higher input costs presented a whole

Birthdays

November 22 - Connie Wilson, Ed Morton, Justin A. Barrett, Rachel Koontz, Duke Burns November 23 - Ina Stallings, Julie Eickhoff, Stewart Fisher, Brent Pettyjohn, Mary Stallings, John Ross, James Naas, Mary Schmitt, Amber Deig November 24 - Sally Proctor, Betty Rice, Christopher Hoffman, Brittney Davis, Walt Titzer, Bernice Bunny Poag, Julie Marchino, McKenna Wathen, Ryder Werry, Helen Grigsby, Maylee Denning, Melba Tyson, Ezekiel Galvin November 25 James R. Cox, Emily Barnes, Emma Eubank, Janet L. Werry, Derek York, Tresa Straw, Ed Poag, Roseanna Goebel, Emily Barnes, Brittany Davis, Mark Schelhorn, Marian East November 26 - Jennifer Andry, Mary

A recent question that was asked at the WMI was “Did the Harmonists celebrate thanksgiving?” So, I plunged headfirst into this rabbit hole only to discover that they in fact did NOT celebrate Thanksgiving. However, they did have celebrations or holidays. Here is some information about the celebrations/ festivals they did celebrate.

Harmonie Fest was observed on February 15 and was a celebration of the funding of the Harmony Society. This festival was only for the members of the Harmony Society. Outsiders were not permitted to attend.

Erntefest was celebrated in August. The word Erntefest in German Translated into English means “Harvest Festival.”

The Agape or Lord’s Supper (also called the Love Feast) was usually observed in late October but was held at other times as well. This feast

new set of challenges that are costing us more across the board and trickling down to consumers.”

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s revised Food Dollar Series, farmers currently receive approximately eight percent of every food marketing dollar. Using this figure, the farmer’s share of this market basket would be $4.88. The rest goes toward food processing, packaging, transportation, wholesale and retail distribution, food service preparation and other marketing costs.

“Just like consumers, farmers are price-takers, not price-setters,” Chism said. “While food prices are increasing, the amount farmers are being paid isn’t covering the sharp increase of their input expenses.”

The total market basket price of $61 includes a 16-pound turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, rolls, peas, a carrot and celery veggie tray, whole milk, cranberries, whipping cream, ingredients for pumpkin pie and miscellaneous baking items.

This year, shoppers can expect to pay approximately $1.75 per pound for a whole turkey, or $28.02 for a 16-pound bird, which is an 11 percent increase from 2021.

Contributing to short-term price increases of turkey this year are depopulations of turkey flocks caused by highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). According to Rebecca Joniskan, president of the Indiana State Poultry Association, about 50 million birds have died or been euthanized so far in 2022 as a result of HPAI. Eight million turkeys nationwide were lost, with over 171,000 in Indiana specifically. However, in Indiana, turkey is typically produced year-round, whereas production in other states can be seasonal.

Mounts, Doug Creek, John Southard, Jeff Hayes, John Wesley Roddy, DaWayne Mercer, Myles Belt, Jenny Brown, Tucker V Gray, Kim Risley, Chris Harris, November 27 - Gloria Creek, Shirley Granderson, Sherri Schroeder, Jim Schmitt, Audrey Warrick, Austin Denning November 28 - Michael Brauser, Nicole Jo Briant, Jeff Koester, Dee Ann ParkerPatterson, Spencer Franklin, Marie Kuebler, Mark Lagoo, Leacca Wilson, Mary Marse, Michelle Fidler, Brock Sigler, Barbara Naas, Caroline Belt, Robert W. Lange, Nicole Jo Melton, Anne Marie Redman, Selina Watson, Robert Elpers, Bill Turner, Tyler Moore If you have a name to be included, please send to: Posey County News, P.O. Box 397, New Harmony, IN 47631, or email: news@ poseycountynews.com.

involved an entire meal rather than the usual bread and wine. Members were only allowed to attend if they had confessed their sins and asked for forgiveness.

Each festival had hymns that were composed specifically for that celebration. The Band would wake the town by playing from the church balcony at 5 a.m. on feast days. They would hold church service, give speeches, sing hymns and feast on food and wine. Preparations for these celebrations would be held days in advance.

We hope you all have a very happy Thanksgiving.

Upcoming at the WMI:

Our Christmas Open House will be December 2, 2022 at 6 p.m. Food, fun and music for all ages.

Santa will be at the WMI from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday December 3, 2022 during the Christmas in New Harmony festival. There will be “Candyland” fun and games available on the lawn as well.

“This year has been difficult for Hoosier poultry farmers, both financially and emotionally,” said Joniskan. “But despite those losses, we are still a robust industry. There are still plenty of turkey products on the market.”

According to the survey, turkey is less expensive pound for pound than other meat options, such as ham, which is $2.72 per pound, or $10.88 for a four-pound ham.

Hoosiers can expect most of the traditional Thanksgiving items to be more expensive this year; however, pie shells and cranberries are more affordable than they were in 2021. The largest percentage price increase was for cubed bread stuffing, up 64 percent for 14 ounces. According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, higher packaging and processing costs brought on by supply chain disruptions and ongoing volatility in the wheat market have been the major drivers behind this increase.

Only pumpkin pie filling is slightly more expensive in Indiana this year than it is nationally. All other items on the shopping list came in less than the national average, most notably peas, pie shells and whole milk.

The INFB Thanksgiving market basket survey was conducted in late October by volunteer shoppers across the state who collected prices on specific food items from one of their local grocery stores. Volunteer shoppers were asked to look for the best possible prices, without taking advantage of special promotional coupons or purchase deals. Indiana’s survey was completed in conjunction with a national survey administered by the American Farm Bureau Federation.

More details about AFBF’s national Thanksgiving market basket results can be found at https://www.fb.org/newsroom/farm-bureausurvey-shows-thanksgiving-dinner-cost-up-20.

Harding Edward Jones office supports Toys for Tots Drive

business hours beginning November 03, 2022 through December 19, 2022. Monetary gifts

“With the holiday season around the corner, we are all getting ready for the festivities,” Harding said. “And as this is the season of giving, now is a great time to remember the less fortunate in our community.”

APL News

November 22 and 29 at 10:30 a.m. - Preschool Story Time - There will be stories and rhymes and activities. Registration for children ages 3 to 5 is required and begins October 3. If the registration is full, please join the waiting list. November 22 at 10 a.m. - Christmas Crafts for Adults - Join us as we make a cute Christmas sheet music ornament and a candle holder, also using Christmas sheet music. If you have a favorite carol or song, let us know and we will try to find sheet music for it. Registration begins November 8. We will be in the Wabash Meeting Room.

November 22 at 6 p.m. - Family Storytime - It is going to be Thanksgiving themed. Books, BINGO, a craft, a snack and a short video will be included. No registration needed. We will be in the Kid’s Corner Room.

November 22 at 6 p.m. - APL’s Adult Trivia Tuesday. - Tease your brain, eat snacks and win prizes. Be a team of one or up to four adults. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the game starts at 6 p.m. Your team only needs to register once. Registration begins October 10.

November 24 and 25 - Thanksgiving - The library will be closed both days.

November 26 and 27 - You can turn in your art work for the art show on these two days.

November 26 to December 1 - No Contact Book Sale - The book sale will be in our foyer.

November 28 to December 2 - Customer Appreciation Week - We’ll be serving hot cocoa and cookie trays in the Current during the week, as well as providing giveaways with checkouts.

November 28, 29 and 30 and December 1 - Fall 2022 County Art Show - Featuring the art of local residents of all ages. Open During Regular Library Hours. In the Library Meeting Rooms.

November 28 at 9:30 a.m. - Baby/Toddler Story Time - There will be a story, songs, rhymes, and bubbles. Registration for children 0 to 36 months is required and begins October 3. If registration is full, please join the waiting list.

November 30 at 4 p.m. for grades 6 to 8 and 6 p.m. for grades 9 to 12 - Dungeons and Dragons - Join us for a short campaign. Bring dice and character sheets if you have them, some will be provided if you don’t. Due to increasing group size, we will be splitting into two sessions based on grade level. In Study Room C. Registration is required.

Note: News in this issue includes: Editorial - Thanksgiving Alms from the “Star,” Marrs Township Farmers’ Institute, Confederate money, four short news briefs, sports, Cynthiana sneaks a score

change, and many news briefs and personals.

Thanksgiving Alms From The “Star” - Gratitude is a habit that repays cultivation. Too many are prone to bewail our misfortunes (largely imag-

ined) and minimized our blessings, thereby increasing our own unhappiness. It is much better for our peace of mind to be grateful for our blessings. The habit of gratitude leads to happiness. And, in what better fashion can we manifest our gratitude to God on this coming Thanksgiving Day than in giving our substance to alleviate the woes of the less fortunate? We are stewards of the Almighty and the material blessings He has showered upon us are not done for our selfish gratification, but to share with others. Thanksgiving lip-service is but an empty form if it ends there. If we are truly thankful to God for the blessings we have received at His hands, surely we should show it by generous treatment of His unfortunate children.

Marrs Township Farmers’ Institute - An exceptionally good program is announced by Ed Deig, president of the Farmers’ Association of Marrs Township, for the institute which will be held at the Catholic School hall, Wednesday, December 6, starting at 10 a.m. The public is cordially invited to attend both the morning and afternoon sessions. The following are some of the topics that will be presented by Mr. Drake and Mrs. Lillian Pierce, a graduate of the Indianapolis Teach-

ers’ College: Talks on “Rearing, Feeding, and Marketing Hogs”; Life and Its Possibilities, and Farm Management. Songs will be sung by school children, a piano solo will be played, and other special music will be rendered.

Confederate Money - A Must For Civil War Buffs - While in the city Saturday, W.H. Duckworth, Civil War veteran, was displaying $30 in Confederate money; two $20 bills one $10 bill. During the Civil War Mr. Duckworth served as a member of Co. G, 91st Infantry, with Captain Thomas Stevens, deceased of this city, in charge. During his enlistment of three years, he saw service in six battles and it was while doing provost duty in front of a bank at Salisbury, N.C. the money was picked up. The money is well preserved and Mr. Duckworth states that he could have secured any of it as the streets were literally covered, being thrown from the banks after the town had been captured by the Yankees.

Four Important News Briefs - Postmaster Mackey issues Christmas rules. Here are at least three: (1) All parcels should be securely wrapped, (2) Name of the sender must appear in the upper left hand in ink, (3) Parcels should be mailed as early as possible.

Christmas Checks - The first week in December is when the Mount Vernon National Bank will begin sending out checks to the various persons who were members of their 1922 Christmas Savings Club. Fire-

mens’ Ball Next Week - The dancing event of the season will be the thirty-first annual ball to be given by the Mount Vernon Fire Department, at the K. of P. Hall on Thanksgiving night. Peterson’s Novelty Boys will be the band. Oyster Supper - An oyster supper will be given at the Grafton I.O.O.F. Hall on Saturday night, November 25, for the benefit of the Poor Children’s Christmas Tree. This supper will be served by the Young Men’s Bible Class, to which all are cordially invited.

Sports - BasketballMount Vernon defeated Stewartsville 32 to 15. Wadesville defeated Haubstadt 32 to 10. The time for the big game with Poseyville grows near. Tomorrow night Mount Vernon will travel to Poseyville and the biggest game of the season will take place. After Friday’s game, only one team will be left in Posey County undefeated.

Cynthiana Declares That New Harmony Won Game - In a fast basketball game at Cynthiana Friday night, New Harmony emerged victors by a score of 11 to 10. During the second half, it began to rain and the New Harmony scorer left the hall to place side-curtains on his automobile. During his absence, the Cynthiana scorer marked up Cynthiana’s score one point, resulting in a tie score and a five minute overtime session was made necessary. Cynthiana caged a basket and was declared the winner, 13 to 11. New Harmo-

ny protested the game to the Cynthiana principal and after a thorough investigation, Coach Daugherty of New Harmony received a letter from Cynthiana, in which the principal declared that New Harmony rightfully won the game of 11 to 10 and that no overtime session should have been necessary. Apologies were offered by Cynthiana.

News Briefs And Personals Farmers’ News - ”Uncle George,” Huber of Robinson Township, said “Never before in the history of Robinson Township has there been a bigger or better crop of corn gathered than this year.” Birth - Born to Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Yeida Friday, a son. Sick List - Mrs. Will Vandever is recovering from a spell of erysipelas. Mrs. Noah Alldredge has been ill for the past week, due to extraction of teeth. Henry Wolf and Leo Hartman both transacted business in the city Wednesday. George Sailer transacted business in this city Friday. David Breeze, S.L. Causey, and Louis Uhde all transacted business in the city Saturday. Sunday Visit - Mr. and Mrs. James Benner and Mr. and Mrs. Harvey David and family, spent Sunday with Mr. and Mrs. John Culley.

125 Years Ago - Jefferson Welborn and Ida Mount were married last Sunday. Miss Katie Shepherd and Arthur Jaquess were married at

Wednesday.

passed through this city Monday evening on the L&N.

Poseyville

Honorable William Jennings Bryan

Steve Harding , a local Edward Jones financial advisor, is supporting the local Toys for Tots program by using his office as a drop-off location for this year’s toy drive. Local residents may help make a difference for children in the area by bringing in a new, unwrapped toy to the office, 430 Southwind Plaza Road, Mount Vernon, IN 47620, during regular

cannot be accepted.

WMI News by Shannon DeLap

Renovations underway at Trotter House of Posey County

By Pam Robinson

The Trotter House of Posey County, Inc., has established a location, and renovations are underway to stay on track for its February 14, 2023, grand opening. It will open its doors next year at 220 West Fourth Street in Mount Vernon, on the main (first) floor of the former site of Funk’s Carpet.

Trotter House was originally opened in Texas 30 years ago and all locations are their own 501(c)3 corporations. To date, Lori DeVillez, Founder and Executive Director, has led and assisted in 498 locations. Trotter House of Posey County is number 499.

“Volunteers are helping with renovations,” states Carol Irick, volunteer coordinator extraordinaire as DeVillez’s Executive Assistant and Secretary of the Board for Trotter House of Posey County. “Right now, we are taking the wallpaper down. We have got to get the wallpaper off the walls before we can get any of the areas ready. Some areas will need new plaster next. We will finish with paint.”

The spacious 2,200 sq.ft. offices will feature a reception area and several areas for client services and care. Known for pregnancy and family resources, Trotter House provides a full-range

The Viking Pride recipient this week is senior Abby Rittichier. Abby is involved in the Spanish Cadet Teaching program that provides elementary students the chance to learn the basics of the Spanish language. This program put on by Spanish teacher, Debbie Whitfield, also known as Senora, is a great opportunity for teenage leadership and youth education.

Here is more about Abby: Tell me about yourself.

My name is Abby Rittichier, and I am a senior at North Posey High School. I plan to study elementary education at USI, so I was automatically drawn to the Cadet Teaching class. I have always had a passion for learning, and I would love to share that passion with the youth of today.

Tell me about your role, responsibilities, and/or involvement in this activity.

My job is to come up with a lesson plan for each week, gather the supplies, and successfully present it to the students in a way they can understand.

What do you enjoy most about the activity?

I enjoy the look on the childrens’ faces when they realize they understand the topic. It is so rewarding to see their excitement during class.

What keeps you inter-

By Lois Mittino Gray Posey County Circuit Court

Judge Craig Goedde has concerns about the need for more court security and an upgraded recording system in these turbulent times. He was the first speaker to address the Posey County Commissioners at their November 1, meeting. The trio was very receptive to his suggestions and approved both of his requests.

Goedde explained that the Circuit Court lacks standard court security measures. “We do not have a full-time deputy in the lobby at all times, x-ray machines, or automated locking mechanisms on the office doors. The Hovey House and some offices in the Coliseum do have those locking mechanisms on the office doors, but we do not.”

Goedde requested the Commissioners approve the purchase of an x-ray machine and metal detector and the addition of three security guards for the Circuit Court building to man the new equipment. Goedde said he is requesting grant funding and is working on the specifics for these right now; however, he would like approval to purchase regardless. The machines would be American Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant and quotes for two different stand-up metal detectors run about $27,437 and $28,147.

The purchase was unanimously approved for the metal detector and X-ray machine and three security guard positions by the Commissioners.

of services to address the needs of women and their families facing a difficult situation.

A family resource, Trotter House works in conjunction with existing social service agencies in the community to help its clients have food, clothing, housing and furnishings for that housing. Or they might help with preparing clients for a job interview. Or they will even provide after abortion support.

“A lot of people were kind of intimidated when we first had a meeting [to start Trotter House of Posey County],” Irick comments. “They’d be like, we already have that here. Well, we don’t want to take that away from you. We want to work with you. . .to send them

Viking Pride

ested and involved in your activity?

My goal for the future is to become an elementary school

over to you.”

In addition, Irick states, Trotter House can start new programs to meet needs for anyone faced with a difficult situation. “We’re going to start a GED program [at the Trotter House of Evansville],” she says. “We’re going to do English as a Second Language for some of our other than English speaking clients. A lot of programs aren’t available in the community that we’re getting ready to start in Evansville. We’ll continue them down here [at Trotter House of Posey County] as well, depending on the needs.”

Anyone might question how this wide array of services is provided. Many volunteers serve Trotter House, including past clients. Irick notes, “They just want to come back and help and do the same thing for other people.” All volunteers have a clear background check.

Yet, Irick is quick to tell you, the primary source for offering services is the great Provider of all things. “It’s mostly God,” she stresses. “It’s all faith-based. It’s all privately funded. We don’t take any government-funding since we do present the Gospel. If you take government-funding, you have to go by government rules. We don’t choose to do that.

tary or middle school students?

If you work hard and make good grades you can be anything you want when you grow up. Also, don’t forget, always be kind to others because you never know their situation.

What is a fun fact about you that people may not know?

I love to crochet. During the quarantine a few years ago, I had brought out my mother’s old crochet hooks and yarn and then taught myself how to use it. Now, I am crocheting almost every day.

What is your favorite quote and why?

“It’s sometimes hard to explain where the money comes from, really. It just comes in. We’ve had people ask Lori [DeVillez] if at any of her facilities the money has never been there for rent. She says, ‘No. It’s never not been there.’”

Irick highlights, for example, the generosity of the Posey County Right to Life, or Posey County RTL, in the start-up for Trotter House of Posey County. “The Posey County RTL gave us $5,000 to start out in Posey County. They will be merging with Vanderburgh County, so they are closing out their stuff down here and plan on giving us some more money.”

Likewise, she considers the landlord’s kindness concerning the rent for Trotter House of Posey County. “We paid the deposit, but we don’t have to pay the first month’s rent until February when we’re open. So while we’re remodeling, we don’t have to pay any kind of rent.”

They believe people will step forward, as they have in Evansville, to supply their needs. At the first big fundraising meal in Evansville at Venue 812 (formerly Western Ribeye on Boeke), the community turned out in full force. “We had thirty tables

of eight,” Irick states. “The people who used to own the Acropolis own Venue 812. They did all the food. It was just amazing.” They plan on a similar fundraiser in Mount Vernon.

Churches are welcomed to partner with Trotter House of Posey County like they do in Evansville also.

“One church leaves a small church bus at Trotter House [of Evansville],” Irick explains. “Twice a week, the pastor and a church member volunteer to pick up clients and bring them back. There is no charge to Trotter House. We don’t have to pay the gas, the insurance, or any other kind of thing like that.”

Churches as well as individuals have shared their handiwork. The Trotter House of Posey County welcomes baby quilts, baby blankets, and baby afghans sewing circles make.

Local physicians can help out, too, by signing up to be on the call list for doctor referrals.

The Evansville community has been generous with cash donations also.

People sign up and give a regular monthly donation.

Irick says Trotter House of Posey County is waiting on its 501(c)3 nonprofit designation to come back to open

a checking account. Once that’s done, Posey people will have the opportunity to go to a Trotter House page and sign up for automatic monthly donations or a onetime donation.

For now, monetary donations may be sent to PO Box 63 in Mount Vernon, IN 47620 with checks made payable to Trotter House and write in the memo Posey County. The donations will be kept in the Evansville checking account for Posey County and will be deposited in the Posey County checking account as soon as it is opened.

Like Evansville, the Trotter House of Posey County also accepts donations of goods. The Posey County wish list contains items people may have in surplus or items they may wish to remove from their homes to eliminate clutter. A Westside storage facility houses furniture donations to keep them in good condition.

Trotter House of Posey County invites the community to support its family resource center in whatever way possible. To obtain a copy of the facility wish list, please call Carol Irick at (812) 831-3952.

She’ll tell you, there’s a place for everyone at Trotter House.

Weekly Wildcat

you.

What is a funny or favorite memory that relates to your involvement at school or the community?

teacher, so staying involved in this activity helps me better understand what I plan to do for a career.

What other activities are you involved in?

I am a member of the band/ marching band, spanish club, and cross country and track teams.

Tell me about your family.

I have quite the large family. All together I have six younger brothers and sisters.

What do you enjoy doing (out of school activities and/ or for fun) during your free time?

With such a large family, I really enjoy my alone time or hanging out with friends.

What advice would you share with younger elemen-

Tom Latham, addressed the Commissioners regarding issues the jail building is having with the internet. Latham explained that when the jail was being built, Advanced Office Systems (AOS), their current technology advisor, was not involved in the process of wiring. The original installers left no map and current AOS personnel cannot pinpoint where the issues are coming from in the system. Latham is requesting that the Commissioners allow AOS to re-map the jail building to diagnose the problems. The Sheriff said the work would be done in two phases; phase 1 would be the re-mapping and diagnosing and would cost roughly $13,200, and phase 2 would be fixing the issue. The request was unani-

“Just because someone stumbles and loses their path, doesn’t mean they are lost forever.” --Professor X

I love this quote because it explains that even when you feel lost in your life, there is always hope to get back on your feet and try again.

It is clear that Abby has worked hard to not only set herself up for success in her future career, but make a positive impact on youth with her passion in the process. Abby is a great example of how to turn a love into a service for others that every Viking should look towards! Thank you to Abby and the Cadet Teaching program for all the work you do for youth students.

mously approved.

In other jail topics, Latham told Commissioners the jail building needs a new server, and he is planning to pay the $6,000 cost from the jail maintenance fund. He gave the following inmate housing updates: 33 from Vanderburgh County, 16 from the Indiana Department of Corrections, and 73 from Posey County for a total inmate count of 122. $43,050 was billed to the Vanderburgh County Sheriff for October inmate per diem.

Local realtor Joe Kiefer addressed the Commissioners regarding the potential purchase of property at Indian Mounds Road and Highway 62, near the new sewage treatment plant. Kiefer is with a group of investors looking to purchase

Tell me about yourself.

I am Molly Jones, a junior in high school. I play volleyball, basketball, and help out with unified track, in the spring. I am the junior class Historian. I’m a part of Student Council, Key Club, National Honor Society, as well as being very active in my church.

Tell me about your family.

I’m very close with my dad, the principal, and my mom, a kindergarten teacher at Farmersville. My younger sister, Emily, attends the high school as well and it’s fun to be apart of the same clubs/ sports as her. My older sister, Maggie, attends IU and studies political science. I have two sweet puppies, Sadie and Tugboat. What is a fun fact about you that many people don’t know?

Dirty Dancing is my favorite movie. What words do you live by? Life’s too short to care what others think of

the property and develop the area. “I am currently working with individuals to help with potential design layouts. We have looked at several options in development. However, my firm specializes in commercial development, and we are actively marketing this area as retail space.”

Collins remarked he would be in favor of holding off committing to fund the roadway until this group has a committed project in the works. Schorr

I always love the bus rides home from away games. What do you enjoy doing (out of school activities and/ or for fun) during your free time?

I love traveling/getting out of town. I also enjoy babysitting, hanging out with my friends, and playing with my dogs.

What advice would you share with younger elementary or middle school students? Get involved with as many clubs and teams as you can. I’ve learned I can maintain better grades when I am forced to learn time management and focus on one thing at a time.

What plans do you have for the future?

I plan to attend USI and become a cardiac sonographer.

Molly stays extremely busy between school sports and clubs. You can catch Molly and her teammates playing Princeton at Mount Vernon High School on Tuesday, November 29. JV starting at 5:30 p.m.

agreed and said he would also like to see a commitment to a project prior to earmarking funds. Kiefer stated he would come back to the next Commissioner meeting with the actual drawing of what is being proposed.

In other Commissioner action:

• Bob Grewe with EREP introduced himself to the Commissioners as the new Director of Economic Development for EREP and he would be around

if anyone had questions.

• Thornburg stated that the sewer project is moving forward, and work has begun.

• Posey County EMS Director Paul Micheletti, addressed the Commissioners regarding the EMS department hosting a giving tree-type project and accepting donations of blankets and other personal care items to be donated to local care facilities. Micheletti stated this would be physical donations only, not monetary.

Carol Irick

Welcome to the Weekly Wildcat where we highlight a Mount Vernon High School student and their involvement in both their school and community. Molly Jones is a junior and a member of the varsity basketball, volleyball, and Unified Track team.

klWildt h lWildt

Molly Jones

Abby Rittichier

Posey County Sheriff

Wildcats of the month

Law enforcement awarded grants to curb dangerous driving

The Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) awarded $5.7 million in grant funding to more than 200 police departments for enhanced traffic enforcement including a $2,000 grant to the Posey County Sheriff’s Office. Departments will use the funding to conduct overtime patrols and carry out strategies aimed at curbing dangerous and reckless driving.

Most of their efforts will take place during targeted enforcement campaigns, which coincide with some of the deadliest times of the year to be on the road, such as the holiday season and Labor Day. While officers will be on the lookout for all traffic violations, their focus will be on addressing some of the leading causes of fatal crashes including impaired driving, speeding, distracted driving and lack of seat belt use.

Ultimately, the goal of the program, funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), is to help prevent crashes and fatalities through education and enhanced highvisibility enforcement.

“One of the aftereffects of the pandemic that we’re still grappling with is the impact it’s had on the way people drive,” said Devon McDonald, ICJI Executive Director. “Last year was one of the deadliest we’ve seen in nearly two decades, since the early

Immanuel UCC welcomes guest Preacher

Immanuel UCC, 5812 Ford Road North, welcomes Deacon Mark McDonald as their guest preacher at the 10 a.m. Sunday worship on November 27. Dr. Tom Hickey will serve as his lay reader, and Judy Deig will offer a special Children’s Moments.

New Harmony Lamp Project

BG Projects (at New Harmony Gallery of Contemporary Art) is proud to present The Lamp Project, a group show featuring ceramic installations by University of Southern Indiana’s Ceramics II students. Artists include Ashley Banks, Lunar Bowen, Caro Burks, Elizabeth Garland, Zoe Lawrence, Mia Mitchell, Katherine (Kassi) Norton, Katelynn Roy, Jaeda Thompson, and Leanne Werkmeister.

The Lamp Project will be on view from November 12 through December 17, 2022, with gallery hours from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Central,

2000s. It’s time we put a stop to this crisis. The extra enforcement will help, but we need every person to make responsible decisions behind the wheel.”

According to the latest statistical projections from NHTSA, 20,175 people died in motor vehicle crashes nationwide in the first half of 2022, up slightly from the previous year. Despite the discouraging report, traffic fatalities decreased by 4.9 percent in the second quarter of 2022 – signifying the first year-to-year decline since the start of the pandemic.

Unfortunately, this is the opposite of what statewide data is showing in Indiana, as fatalities continue to rise. As of October, ICJI estimates that 814 people lost their lives in fatal collisions this year. While that’s up 2.4 percent from the same time in 2021, it represents an 18.5 percent increase from pre-pandemic 2019.

The rising number of crash-related deaths can be attributed, in part, to an increase in unsafe driving behavior such as speeding, driving impaired or distracted, and not wearing seat belts, according to ICJI.

“We’re at a critical crossroads, with traffic fatalities at the highest point in almost 20 years,” said Robert Duckworth, ICJI Traffic Safety Director. “Besides motorist behavior, one of the challeng-

Briefly

Tuesday through Saturday.

Saint Wendel Christmas Parade

Join us for our eighth annual golf cart and ATV Christmas parade on Saturday, November 26 at 6 p.m. This event will take place at the Knights of Saint John 282 in the parking lot, cost is $10 for the driver and $5 for rider, cash only. Kids 12 and under free. Tailgate party following parade, half pot, Chinese auction, prizes, food truck(s), bonfire, music and Santa. All proceeds go to organizations and or families fighting cancer. Rain date is Sunday, November 27.

Immanuel UCC second Sunday Advent Immanuel UCC, 5812 Ford Road North, will have a special second Sunday of Advent worship with Advent Wreath candle lighting, “Hanging of the Greens,” and Communion on December 4. Immanuel welcomes visitors. If you visit, Immanuel’s worship begins at 10 a.m.

Sermon of the Week - Does anyone even care?

Bro. Tom Doty Luke 10:40-42; 40 But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” 41 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, 42 but few things are needed—or indeed only one.[f] Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

Have you ever been distracted by all that’s going on and feel that you’re the only one doing anything? Have you ever thought “Does anyone even care”? Do you ever feel that the rats are winning in this rat race of life? It’s easy to get distracted by the things that happen every day in life. One day we are up and the next three we think it will never get any better. Why do I feel as though the weight of the world is upon me and me alone? It happens. We all have days just as Martha had. We are doing all we can do and it seems that no one else is doing anything. So, why even try? Take note of what Jesus said.

We often have our minds on the temporal things of life and miss the really eternal things of life. Yes, it’s important to make a living. It’s important to pay our bills and take care of those around us. But too often we miss the one thing that can and will get us over the humps in life. It’s important to

Beginnings Church and loves to spend time with her family.

es we’re facing in Indiana and across the country is the fact that, overall, traffic enforcement is down. It’s something we’re working to address through this program. Enforcement and education are key to tackling this issue.”

The grants were awarded last month using federal NHTSA funds. The largest amount went to the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department at $1.3 million, as urban areas, like Marion County, continue to see the largest increase in fatal crashes.

The first campaign of the program, Safe Family Travel, kicks off next week and is designed to cut down on impaired driving and promote seat belt use during the busy holiday season, followed by a St. Patrick’s Day-focused enforcement operation in March.

Visit https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/INSTATE/2022/11/17/file_attachments/2331958/Media%20 List%20CHIRP,%202023.pdf to download a list of the 2023 award recipients. The grants were awarded to stand-alone police agencies and traffic safety partnerships made up of multiple agencies.

For more information about the Traffic Safety Division and the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, visit www.cji.in.gov.

The Children’s Nutcracker

Children’s center for Dance education presents The Children’s Nutcracker on Sunday, December 4, at 3 p.m., Thralls Opera House.

Christmas on Main Street in Mount Vernon

Join us for our two day event starting on Friday, December 9, at 7 p.m. for the Christmas Parade and at 7:50 p.m. for the lighting of the Christmas tree. Live Nativity immediately following tree lighting.

Then come back on Saturday, December 10, for the 9 a.m. Christmas Character Breakfast, the kids Christmas party with food trucks, music, and fun from noon until 4 p.m., followed by a Christmas movie at 5 p.m. at the Amphitheater.

Open House Retirement Party for Sophie Roby

take time to learn of the things that God has for us. Too often we are so caught up on our things that we miss the things of God. Martha was busy and thought that things had to be done right then. Mary had chosen what was better. She had chosen to hear the caring and comforting words of Jesus. When it seems that the world is crashing in on us we need to take the time to just stop and hear from God. Those busy things that seem to get us down keep us from spending time with God. If we would only take a few minutes each day to hear from God our life might be a little smoother. Will God take away our problems? Not always. But he will give us the grace and strength to face the problem and have the assurance that we are not alone. God is aware of the things that distract us and He is ready to help us if we are willing to take the time to leave the distraction and seek time with Him. Mary knew what was going on. Mary was aware of the needs at hand, but she also knew she needed to hear from Jesus. So, she sat and got her mind fixed on the one who would help her. Martha didn’t understand what Mary was doing. Our world may not understand what we are doing, but if we will take the time to be with God we will be encouraged.

The one thing that can’t be taken from us is the time we spend with God. Mary knew that Jesus would not always be there. Mary knew that the time would come that she could

Open house retirement party for Sophie Roby will be held Sunday, December 11, from 1:30 until 3:30 p.m. at the Alexandrian Public Library in the Ohio room. Come join and help celebrate her retirement.

Deadline to certify planted wheat December 15, is the deadline to certify planted wheat, planting dates are required.

If you have cover crops please certify them as soon as possible.

The 2023 Farm Program sign up is ongoing and the deadline to get all signature on the contract back in the office is March 15. Producers have the option of changing the elections on the contracts. All producers who have a share on the contract must sign the contract.

Please contact the Posey County FSA Office at 812-838-4191, ext. 2 to set up an appointment or if you have any questions.

not tell Jesus all about her problems. So, she did what she knew she had to do. She spent time with Jesus and learned how to face life. If we will take the time to share our troubles, temptations, problems, doubts and fears we will see that God really cares about those things that are distracting us. 1 Peter 5:7 tells us to “Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about us”. We do not need to carry the weight of the world when Jesus is willing to help us if we will give up our distractions.

So, what’s distracting you today? What seems so important that you can’t spend some time alone with God? One minute with God might help you overcome an hour of burdens. If one minute can help just think what an hour with God could and would do. If we are willing to give God some time in our busy life God will also give us time to take care of the needed things. And He will give us the strength and ability to get it done. So, are you going to allow the distractions to keep you down or are you going to spend some time with God and allow God to take care of things for you? The decision is yours. Are you going to be like Martha and complain or are you like Mary and spend some time with God?

I have prayed for you this morning. I pray that each of us will be aware of our distractions and take time as Mary did and spend time with Jesus.

SIMPSON

The following ten students were selected by the faculty of Mount Vernon High School as “Wildcat of the Month” for October, 2022. Students are selected based on criteria which include academics, citizenship, effort and attendance.

Honorees are: Rylan Paul, Shaun Franklin, Miranda Powell, Nicot Burnett, Cora Bell, Bryce Dyehouse, Brenna Julian and Arianna Forsee. Not Pictured: Alex Healy

Barb Herrin, Karen Stockton, Mary Wagner, and Paula Nurrenbern serve up some of the delicious food on Saturday evening at the Salem-Huesler UCC Annual Sausage Supper on Saturday at the church. Photo by Dave Pearce

Martha and Charlie Sartore arrived at Saint Phillip Church early on Saturday afternoon to make sure to get a good seat for the Knights of Columbus Bingo held at the church on Saturday evening. Photo by Dave Pearce

Legal Advertising and Court News

Arrests

November 10

Amanda Sanders - Evansville - Warrant, Possession of Methamphetamine (petition to revoke) - PCS

Tychicus Jones - Memphis, Tenn. - Battery on a Pubic Safety Office, Resisting Law Enforcement, Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated, Possession of Marijuana - ISP

November 11

Ryan Renfro - Poseyville - Possession of Paraphernalia, Possession of Methamphetamine - MVPD

Trenton Jones - WadesvillePossession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, Dealing in Marijuana, Maintaining a Common Nuisance-Controlled Substances - PCS

November 12

Eden Williams - Mount Vernon - Domestic Battery - MVPD November 13

Angela Thomas - Mount Ver-

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non - Warrant, Possession of Methamphetamine - MVPD November 14

Glenn Reich - Mount VernonPossession of Methamphetamine - PCS

November 15

Georgia Bourne - OwensvilleDriving While Suspended - PCS Complaints November 1 2:01 a.m. - Vandalism - Caller advised there is a large group of what she believes to be juveniles outside her home. Believes they may be vandalizing houses - Washington Avenue, Mount Vernon 2:48 p.m. - Theft - Advised her house is in foreclosure. Advised that some of her property was sitting outside next to the house and was covered. Advised missing a washer and bowl/pitcher that was in the house is missing - Evansville Street, Cynthiana 3:50 p.m. - Fight - Fight between father and juvenile - Elm/

Locust Street, Cynthiana 6:20 p.m. - Fight - Two people fighting - Water Street, Mount Vernon 7:25 p.m. - Domestic ViolenceCaller advised that neighbor’s are arguing and yelling - James Drive, Mount Vernon 9:09 p.m. - General Complaint - Caller advised a drone that is flying South East of his house and is getting close to his house and feels like someone is spying on him. Caller did advise he has a high powered rifle that can hit it but would like to speak to an officer and have one come out and view it - Point Road, Mount Vernon 10:33 p.m. - SuspiciousCaller advised she saw a black male looking at her in her window. Wearing bright white t-shirt and has short hair - Tenth Street, Mount Vernon November 2 11:16 a.m. - Message - Request to speak with an officer reference a male subject getting loud with

NOTICE OF DETERMINATION TO ISSUE GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS, SERIES 2022

Taxpayers of the Metropolitan School District of North Posey County (the “School Corporation”), are hereby notified that the School Corporation has determined to issue its General Obligation Bonds, Series 2022 (the “Bonds”) in accordance with Indiana Code 20-48-1-1, as amended, in the amount of not to exceed $1,600,000 for the purpose of providing funds for improving school property. This notice is provided in accordance with Indiana Code 6-1.1-20-5.

Dated: November 15, 2022

METROPOLITAN

SCHOOL DISTRICT OF NORTH POSEY COUNTY

Published in the Posey County News on November 22, November 29, 2022 - hspaxlp

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LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given by the Board of Zoning Appeals of the Posey County Area Plan Commission of a public hearing to be held at 5:00 P.M. on Thursday, December 8, 2022 at The Hovey House, 330 Walnut Street, Mt. Vernon, Indiana. Upon the following Special Use application, the Board of Zoning Appeals will at that time hear objections thereto:

SPECIAL USE: DOCKET NO: 22-17-SU-BZA

APPLICANT: Derrick Verble

OWNER: Derrick & Iva Verble

PREMISIS: Lot Number 21 of Country Manor, a Subdivision located in Section Twenty-four (24), Township Five (5) South, Range Fourteen (14) West, Lynn Township, Posey County, Indiana, containing .41 acres, more or less. More commonly known as 2830 John Avenue, New Harmony, Indiana. (Complete legal description is on file at the Posey County Area Plan Commission Office).

NATURE OF CASE: Applicant requests a Special Use for the addition of a 12’ x 25’ lean to onto an existing pole barn for residential storage in an A (Agricultural) Zoning District Section 153.032 (B) (2) Use Unit 2- Area wide Special Exception Uses Section 153.147 (B) (14) Residential Storage Structure of the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Mt. Vernon, Town of Cynthiana, Town of Poseyville and Unincorporated Posey County. POSEY COUNTY AREA PLAN COMMISSION BY MINDY BOURNE, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Published in the Posey County News on November 22, 2022 - hspaxlp 2022-344

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION Cause No. 65C01-2210-EU-00062 IN THE POSEY CIRCUIT COURT IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LARRY J. KUSTURIN, DECEASED.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Andrew Kusturin was, on November 9, 2022, appointed Personal Representative of the Estate of LARRY J. KUSTURIN, deceased, who died on July 24, 2020. All persons who have claims against this estate, whether or not now due, must file the claim in the office of the clerk of this court within three (3) months from the date of the first publication of this Notice, or within nine (9) months after the decedent’s death, whichever is earlier, or the claims will be forever barred.

DATED: November 15, 2022.

Prepared By: Joshua Mastison, # 26476-82 Mastison Law & Mediation, Inc.

CLERK, POSEY CIRCUIT COURT

Attorney-at-Law & Certified Domestic Relations Mediator 7899 Bell Oaks Dr., Suite 6 P.O. Box 1202 Newburgh, IN 47629 Published in the Posey County News on November 22, November 29, December 6, 2022 - hspaxlp

her over her reserved parking space - Poplar Street, Cynthiana 11:30 a.m. - Officer StandbyNeeding an officer for a standby while repossessing a camper. Owner is aware - Griffin Road, New Harmony 12:16 p.m. - Repossession2013 Toyota 4-Runner. Owner is aware - Continental Camp Road, Griffin 1:06 p.m. - Theft - Corvette title. Female subject took title and titled Corvette in her name but caller has actual vehicle - Kimball

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Street, Mount Vernon 3:06 p.m. - Harassment - Caller advised he is being harassed by male subject. Advised the subject calls him from unknown numbers and shows up when he is at work - Mount Vernon 5:44 p.m. - Threatening - Caller advised her ex has tried to blow up her house. Advised she cannot turn her furnace on due to motor oil being in the bottom of it as well as a bullet and propane tank and a piece of paper soaked in oilFletchall Avenue, Poseyville

6:18 p.m. - Domestic Violence - Advised female and male are screaming at each other. Believes it is going to get physical - Eighth Street, Mount Vernon 7:01 p.m. - Alcohol Offense - Male subject, long blonde hair, shorts and red shirt. Has a backpack on, walking like he can’t stand up, all over the place - Sixth Street, Mount Vernon 7:11 p.m. - Message - Advised receiving threatening messages from male subject - Metz Road, Wadesville

NOTICE TO BIDDERS AND CONTRACTORS

Notice is here by given that the Board of Public Works & Safety of the City of Mount Vernon, Posey County, Indiana, will receive bids for certain supplies, materials, services, and properties necessary for the operation of the General, Park & Recreation, Motor Vehicle Highway, Local Road & Street, Cumulative Capital Improvement, Cumulative Capital Development Funds, Water Department, and the Wastewater Treatment Plant of said City for the 2023 fiscal year up to the hour of 11:00 A.M., December 14, 2022, at the Office of the Clerk-Treasurer in the City Hall Annex, 520 Main Street, Mount Vernon, Indiana: Item #1 Gasoline and diesel will be pumped at the bidders pumps. Bidder will ensure 24 hour service and in case of power failure Provide emergency backup. Bidder must specify minimum octane rating on each class of fuel.

A. Ethyl 65,000 gallons or less

B. Regular 65,000 gallons or less C. Unleaded 65,000 gallons or less D. Low Sulphur Diesel 15,000 gallons or less E. #1 and #2 Diesel 15,000 gallons or less Items #2, #3, #4 F.O.B. at bidders plant or delivered to designated points within the City.

A. Gravel 2,000 ton or less

B. Rock/Stone 5,000 ton or less C. Sand 7,000 ton or less

Item #5 Asphalt Paving, as follows: 1500 ton or less asphalt patching materials, F.O.B. bidders plant

A. Binder B. Surface C. Cold Mix D. UPM

All stone, concrete materials, asphaltic materials, and sand are to meet current Indiana State Highway standard specifications and detailed specifications now on file in the Clerk-Treasurer’s Office in the City Hall Annex Building, Mount Vernon, Posey County, Indiana, entitled

SPECIFICATIONS

SPECIFICATIONS FOR WATER, CITY OF MOUNT VERNON

FOR STREET IMPROVEMENTS, CITY OF MOUNT VERNON.

Item #6 300,000 gallons, more or less, polyaluminum Hydroxychlorosulphate (PAC), delivered in bulk to the Mount Vernon Water Works Plant.

Bid Specs for PAC

1) It is the intent of these specifications to define the properties and characteristics of the aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate which will be used for the treatment of water in a water treatment plant.

2) The contract for the purchase of aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate will be for a term of (1) year from the date of contract signing. The contract can be extended for an additional year upon agreement by both parties.

3) The aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate supplier shall deliver to the water treatment plant an order of aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate within 8 calendar days of the date of order placement.

4) The aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate supplier shall be responsible for the delivery and unloading of the aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate.

Specific Product Requirements:

1) The material supplied shall be aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate specifically manufactured for application for treatment of water in a water treatment facility meeting AWWA standards and listed under NSF Standard 60.

2) The aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate to be furnished shall have the following typical properties:

Chemical Type Aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate

% Aluminum Oxide 10.5 +/- 0.5

% Aluminum 5.6 +/- 0.3

Basicity 70 % minimum Sulfate 1.5% +/- 0.5% Chloride 9 % minimum pH 2.5 +/- 0.3 Specific Gravity 1.23 +/- 0.03

Color Water white to tan

Appearance Slightly hazy to clear Freezing point -26°F

CAS Number 39290-78-3

UN Class UN 1760 Corrosive Liquid N.O.S.

3) The aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate supplier guarantees the aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate furnished during the contract period will meet or exceed the above specifications.

4) The product must have a demonstrated ability to perform effectively in all turbidity, temperature and pH ranges for the water being treated. Arrangements for conducting demonstration tests are the responsibility of the Bidder and should be made to the Authority far enough in advance of the bid to show effectiveness of the product. All costs related to this demonstration shall be paid for by the Bidder and must include the following:

A. Provide enough product in tote bins for plant testing with the product feeding at a continuous rate for the full duration of the test.

B. Two tests, each seven days long are required; one test during cold water temperatures in January or February and a second during warm temperatures in August or September.

5) Effective performance will be determined by water plant personnel based upon current water quality objectives on which the plant has a historical working knowledge, including particle counts, applied turbidity, finished water turbidity, filter run length, product dosage, etc.

6) Bidder shall bid delivery by tank truck based upon minimum shipments of 3,000 gallons.

7) Bidder should have a person available by phone or in person who is knowledgeable on coagulation using aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate. Include name and phone number with bid.

8) Bidder is required to visit plant twice per year to conduct jar test to ensure product being utilized properly and to assist in training of plant operators in effective use of the aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate.

9) Bidder should be primary manufacturer of the aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate.

Item #7 36,000 pounds, more or less, liquid chlorine, to be delivered in (1) one ton cylinders, to the Mount Vernon Water Works Plant.

SPECIFICATIONS FOR SEWER, CITY OF MOUNT VERNON

Item #8 Phosphorous Removal Project 300,000 pounds, more or less, polyaluminum Hydroxychlorosulphate (PAC), delivered in bulk to the Mount Vernon Sewage Treatment Plant.

Bid Specs for PAC

1) It is the intent of these specifications to define the properties and characteristics of the aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate which will be used for the treatment of WASTE water in a SEWAGE treatment plant in order to remove phosphorous.

2) The contract for the purchase of aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate will be for a term of (1) year from the date of contract signing. The contract can be extended for an additional year upon agreement by both parties.

3) The aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate supplier shall deliver to the WASTE water treatment plant an order of aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate within 8 calendar days of the date of order placement.

4) The aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate supplier shall be responsible for the delivery and unloading of the aluminum chloride hydroxide sulfate.

Specific Product Requirements:

shall be

chloride hydroxide sulfate

Item #12 Foundation Walls All foundation walls shall be maintained plumb and free from open cracks and breaks and shall be kept in such condition so as to prevent the entry of rodents and unwanted animals.

Item#13 Roofs and Drainage The roof and flashing shall be sound and tight and not have defects that admit rain. Roofing shall be installed as designed by its manufacturer. Roof drainage shall be adequate to prevent dampness or deterioration in the walls or interior portion of the structure. Every structure shall have adequate gutters and downspouts in sound condition maintained in good repair to divert normal rainwater from the roof to an available storm sewer or to other areas on the premises, not including a sanitary sewer, where dispersal of water will not adversely affect the foundation of any structure and will not cause a public hazard. If there is no storm sewer available, the downspouts shall terminate above grade with a diverter and splash block to direct water away from the foundation of any structure, and in a manner that will not cause a public hazard.

Item #20 Posting of Street Numbers To enhance response for emergency services, it shall be the Responsibility of every property owner, trustee, agent, and occupant of every structure (residential or commercial )to post or maintain address numbers at all times. Each structure to which a street number has been assigned shall have such number displayed on the front of the structure or on a mailbox located on the same lot and readable from the public right-of-way at all times, from either direction. All numbers shall be Arabic numerals equivalent) at least three inches (76mm) in height and a minimum of one-half-inch (13mm) stroke, and shall be a contrasting color from it’s background. If the structure is fifty feet or more from the public roadway, the number must be at the entrance to a driveway accessing the structure and again on the structure if the driveway provides access to multiple structures. An addition, multiple-unit structure must display the building number in such a manner to clearly identify each unit.

Published in the Posey County News on November 8, November 15, November 22, 2022 - hspaxlp

Indiana State Board of Accounts and bidder shall furnish bond, certified check or cashier’s check, in the amount of five percent (5%) of their total bid, to guarantee that they will enter a contract and/or furnish performance bond in accordance with their bids and specifications.

No bid shall be opened or accepted if delivered after 11:00 o’clock A.M., Central Standard Time on the 14th of December, 2022. Proper bids will be opened at the regular meeting of the Board of Public Works & Safety at 9:00 A.M., Central Standard Time, December 15, 2022, in the Annex Meeting Room, at 520 Main Street. The City of Mount Vernon, Posey County, Indiana, reserves the right to reject any and all bids. Bill Curtis, Mayor

Cristi L. Sitzman, Clerk-Treasurer

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Posey County 4-H Recognizes 4-H Youth and Volunteers

The 4-H Achievement Banquet occurred on November 15, 2022 at the Posey County Community Event Center on the Fairgrounds.

The evening consisted of a meal, sponsored by Posey County Co-op and an award presentation given by the 4-H Junior Leaders and 4-H Youth Development Educator, Amanda Bender.

During the presentation, 4-H club leaders were recognized for their time and talent put forth during the previous year. The following club leaders received recognition for their years of volunteerism:

First Year - Jennifer Fribley

Second Year - Robyn Bender and Sally Julian

Third Year - Allison Hatfield and Amelia Sharber

Fourth Year - Emma Motz, Cathy Defur, Shelley Hargrove, Laura Kuhn, and Heather Morlan

Seventh Year - Heather Allyn, Katy Lang, and Cody Pate

Eighth Year - Dana Jarvis

Ninth Year - Robin Price

Tenth Year - Shayna Ray

Eleventh Year - Carla Schenk

Twelfth Year - Dave Morlock and Angela and Todd Wiley

Nineteenth Year - Dana and John Pate

Twenty-second YearCarol Hordynski

Twenty-fifth Year - Rachel Deno

Twenty-ninth Year - Russell Roehr

Thirty-second Year - Jeanette Head

Forty-fifth Year - Chris Mulkey

The following Junior Leaders were recognized for completing the Junior Leader project requirements:

Gabby Boerner, MacKenzie Carrier, Julia Commens, Lora Commens, Lilly Donner, Audrey Fisher, Dharma Fribley, Madelyn Galindo, Brookelynn Hisch, Mallory Kuhn, Natalie Kuhn, Parker Gross, Shelby Lang, Ali Lyke, Addyson Lingafelter, Maggie McCutchan, Samantha McCutchan, Emma Moore, Madalyn Nightingale, Libby Reese, Ciara Schenk, Katelyn Seibert, Danielle Underwood, Matthew Wildeman, Valerie Wildeman, and Maelee Yount.

The first year Junior Leader awards were sponsored by 4-H Council.

State Fair Merit awards were given to 4-H’ers whose exhibits earned a merit. Merits are awarded to projects of the highest quality at the State

Fair. The following 4-H members earned this honor: Isabella Benthall (Creative Writing), Renee Bippus (Vet Science), Lora Commens (Forestry), Hannah Gray (Arts & Crafts), Brookelynn Hisch (Fine Arts), Aubrey May (Cat Poster), Jackson O’Daniel (Dog Poster), Emmelyn Reese (Foods), Jonathan Schmitt (Aerospace), Mattison Schenk (Garden & Woodworking). These awards were sponsored by Rural King and 4-H Council.

Penmanship awards were given to 4-H’ers who exhibit livestock during the fair. Project Superintendents of each animal species selected the 4-H’ers for this award.

This year’s winners were:

Beef: Ali Lyke

Dairy: Jonathan Schmitt Goat: Gracie Defur

Horse & Pony: Jaylen Johnson

Swine: Parker Gross

Sheep: Wyatt Willman Rabbit: Henry Hildenbrand

Poultry: Sophia Reese Awards for Penmanship were sponsored by Rural King and 4-H Council.

4-H’ers that participated in the Dairy Judging CDE were Julia Commens and Emily

Schmitt. They were coached by Arin Commens. Julia placed 1st in the individual contest and Emily placed 5th in the individual contest.

The State 4-H Electric Committee recognized the following members for outstanding accomplishments in the Electric project: Evan Beuligmann, Samuel Oakley, Easton Sharber and Kalem Harris.

The Posey County SWCD sponsored awards to 4-H’ers whose Forestry or Soil & Water projects exhibited at the State Fair. For the Soil & Water project, Charley May was recognized. Julia Commens and Lora Commens were recognized for Forestry. They will also be recognized at the SWCD banquet in January.

Renee Bippuss was this year’s Posey County Accomplishment Scholarship recipients. The scholarship is sponsored by 4-H Council. The Farm Bureau sponsored the Farm Bureau Tenure & Overall Achievement Award. Renee Bippus and Addyson Lingafelter were this year’s winners.

All 4-H members were recognized for completion of another year of 4-H. Members who exhibited at the

State Fair were also recognized.

The 4-H Sweepstakes Award recognizes outstanding 4-H members who excelled in exhibiting projects in the Exhibit Building during the fair. This year’s winner were Mattison Schenk, Sophia Reese and Dharma Fribley. 4-H Council sponsored this award.

The winner of the Volunteer Service Award was Sandy Schmitt. It is awarded to a volunteer who is involved and supportive of the 4-H program. The Timmy Lee Schmidt award is awarded annually to an exceptional 4-H member. This year’s winner was Shelby Lang. The Ned O. Williams award is presented to an outstanding 4-H club leader every year. Sally Julian of the Blazing Saddles was this year’s winner.

Best Secretary’s Book

Awards were presented to Emma Moore of the Hoosier Boosters and Lucy Mohr of the Crafty Comets. 4-H Council sponsored this award.

The following clubs were recognized as honor clubs: Kings & Queens, Hoosier Boosters, Tarty Tuckers and Rousing Rookies. The Club of the Year was awarded to Hoosier Boosters.

Thank you to the volunteers not mentioned in this article. All have helped Posey County youth ‘to make the best better’. Support from the community helps to make the 4-H program a success!

For more information about Posey County 4-H, please contact Purdue Extension-Posey County at 812838-1331 or email Amanda Bender bender14@purdue. edu.

Enroll in 4-H today at https://v2.4honline.com.

Posey County 4-H Jr. Leaders. Pictured l to r: First Row—Danielle Underwood, Maggie McCutchan, Parker Gross, Dharma Fribley, Audrey Fisher, Ciara Schenk, Maelee Yount. Second Row—Ali Lyke, Brookelynn Hisch, Madelyn Galindo, Katelyn Seibert, MacKenzie Carrier, Shelby Lang, Emma Moore.

State Fair Merit Winners. Pictured l to r: Lora Commens, Mattison Schenk, Brookelynn Hisch, Jonathan Schmitt.

4-H Penmanship Award Winners. Pictured l to r: Jaylen Johnson, Jonathan Schmitt, Ali Lyke, Sophia Reese, Parker Gross.

The Kings & Queens 4-H club was recognized as an honor club at the 4-H Achievement Banquet. Pictured l to r: Eli McFadin, Blake McFadin, Shelby Lang, Ali Lyke, Jayden Lyke, Carlton Redman, Katy Lang.

The Tarty Tuckers 4-H club was recognized as an honor club at the 4-H Achievement Banquet. Pictured l to r: Dave Morlock, Dharma Fribley, Daphne Fribley, Jennifer Fribley.

The Rousing Rookies 4-H club was recognized as an honor club at the 4-H Achievement Banquet. Pictured l to r: Front row—Meredith Seibert, Mattison Schenk, Ciara Schenk, Sebastian Rollins, Emily Schmitt. Second row—Carla Schenk, Katelyn Seibert, Lora Commens, Maggie McCutchan, Jonathan Schmitt, Piper Rollins, Russ Roehr.

The Hoosier Boosters 4-H club was recognized as an honor club and club of the year. Pictured l to r:

First Row—Todd Wiley. Second Row—Cameron Fisher, Keegan Mulkey, Audrey Fisher, Raelyn Carrier, Heidi Lowe, MacKenzie Carrier, Glenn Bender and Angela Wiley. Second Row—Chris Mulkey, Olivia Woods, Brookelynn Hisch, Cristian Galindo, Madelyn Galindo, Emma Moore, Maelee Yount.

Sweepstakes Award Winners. These 4-H’ers were recognized for exhibiting the most static projects in the exhibit building during the 2022 Fair. Pictured l to r: Mattison Schenk, Sophia Reese, Dharma Fribley.

4-H Club Leaders with 20+ years’ experience were recognized at the 4-H Achievement Banquet. Pictured l to r: Carol Hordynski, Rachel Deno, Russ Roehr, Jeanette Head and Chris Mulkey.

Shelby Lang was honored to receive the Timmy Lee Schmidt award at the 4-H Achievement Banquet this year.

basically a permission to add it to the budget lines. The additional appropriation was approved 4-1 with Oakley once again voting nay. The additional appropriation must now be reported to the Department of Local Government Finance.

Other board action was taken on three matters and all five votes were unanimous for these. The board voted to accept the low bid from Information and Records Associates for $26,383.51 to scan the voluminous records located in the basement of Central Office. Many of them are acquired New Harmony School records. The cost for this process will be paid from the Operations’ Fund over the next two budget years. Original documents will be shredded after scanning.

The installation of a new Administration Area VVT Control System at the North Posey Junior High School was approved at the cost of $14,875.00 as was the replacement of a faulty fire damper found there at the cost of $1,412.00. ESSER III Funds will be used for the VVT Control System and contingency funds are earmarked for the damper cost.

A proposal with Thrive Afterschool Inc. in Mount Vernon to provide service and training for their bus transportation and drivers was approved. “Not only will that bring in some extra money, it also allows us to train two new drivers who can work for us as substitutes, if available when needed,” observed Assistant Superintendent Michelle Walden. In personnel matters, Galvin announced that, as of that day of the meeting, Patrick Rose submitted his intent to retire as a math teacher at North Posey High School, effective Decem-

this discussion because property tax assessments continue to increase within the state and across the district. When the state of Indiana put property tax caps in place over a decade ago, it became quite clear assessments would continue to climb. The entire system is really a political ruse. The trend in Indiana government has been to take what was once locally controlled and move it under state level management. In public education, this has resulted in many corporations being forced to rely on local referendums to survive.

If a school corporation ever hopes to successfully pass a referendum, it must have great rapport with its taxpayers. Taxpayers need to be constantly aware of the finances and needs of the corporation. This should be a constant process when done correctly. Thinking back to the last bond process, the relationship between North Posey and its taxpayers is already strained. I stated weeks ago that if the school corporation wanted to take on additional debt at the expense of the taxpayer, it needed to be explained. I was hoping to see a series of e-mails, videos, social media posts, etc. explaining the immediate need for the bond and the exact projects which need to be addressed. Unfortunately, this hasn’t happened as yet. Our communities have always supported our schools when a need is explained.

Blaylock said personnel matters like performance reviews and interviews could be discussed in executive sessions. He said he would look into the matter further. Erin Bauer, the council’s attorney, was not at the meeting to clarify the issue.

“If we had an executive meeting for (salary raises), per the state guidelines, then we were wrong to have it,” Blaylock said.

Councilman Rodney Clark asked if a broker was used to look for insurance plans. Wade explained that an agent has been used and while rates haven’t been “too bad,” he said he believes “there’s better policies out there now than what we have now.”

“That policy they have I looked at yesterday. I think we need to shop,” Wade said.

Concerns were raised about the timing of switching policies for the town’s four employees with the start date of January 1 a little over a month away.

“I don’t know about our timing, but it would seem to me that it would be prudent if we’ve just renewed the same policy with the same agent for a number of years that it’s prudent to at least get a broker involved to shop several companies and bring a proposal back to us on alternatives,” Clark said. “This may be the best plan? I don’t know. But you don’t know until you find out.”

Clark added that he had been in the “insurance business, and every once in a while you

ten several companies just to get information to see if it was even feasible and what it would cost and what it would entail,” Lewis told council in August 2021. “I talked to a variety of people in town, just asking ‘What is your preference in colors?’ It’s pretty much universal that everybody likes the traditional red and green.”

She gave members a proposal for evergreens with wreaths in the center with red bows and white, cost-saving LED lights to cross the streets and side mounted wreaths. She told members that she had budgeted the total cost of replacing each of the lanterns and the skylines at between $18,000 and $19,000.

“I know this is a large undertaking. I look at the budget and I see that Christmas decorations have a zero budget,” Lewis told members.

Council agreed with the need, but members were concerned about costs. They approved a reduced version of Lewis’s proposal to replace only the skyline swags on Main Street for Christmas 2022.

Lewis and the NHBA spearheaded the design and sale of three New Harmony landmark-themed Christmas ornaments representing the Granary, the Roofless Church and the Working Men’s Institute to help cover a portion of the costs.

Each ornament features a Christmas tree as a common element in the series. The NHBA has sold more than $5,000 in ornaments to cover the group’s portion of the shared cost thus far. The $21 ornaments have been sold at Capers Emporium and The Mews and will be available to purchase at the festival next weekend.

The town sent one of the Granary ornaments to Indiana First Lady Janet Holcomb to grace the state’s official tree in 2021.

Lewis has ideas for around 20 ornaments and hopes to continue working towards updating the rest of the town’s decorations.

“We will continue selling (ornaments). Hopefully, next year we will be able to pur-

ber 31, 2022. “He explained he had an offer in the private sector that was too good to refuse and couldn’t pass up. He was a great addition to our program and will be truly missed. We wish him the best.”

Other resignations include Jon Mason as the Special Education Instructional Assistant at North Posey Junior High / High School and Lyndsay Sherretz in the same role at North Elementary School. Dawn Martin and Gayle Spindler resigned as School Bus Drivers. Sonya Teel resigned as the Transportation Secretary, effective February 3, 2023.

Tessa Gustin was hired as a Special Education Instructional Assistant at North Elementary School, effective November 8. Both Laura Cumbee and Kayla Tucker were hired as Parttime Special Education Instructional Assistants at St. Wendel Catholic School, effective November 14. Gayla Schapker will be the Long-Term Substitute for Rusty Seymour at North Posey High School beginning October 31, 2022. Cortney Bowen was hired as a School Bus Driver effective October 17, 2022.

In sports hires, Amber Pickens was named the high school Girls’ Track and Field Head Coach for the 2022-2023 season while Doug Bergmann was tapped as the high school Archery Club Sponsor for the school year. Larry Kahle will serve as a Volunteer Varsity Boys’ Basketball Coach. Amy Hallam was approved as a seventh Grade Girls’ Basketball Coach. James Marshall, Bryce Martin, and Noah Scheller are North Elementary Volunteer fifth and sixth Grade Boys’ Basketball

Based on Stifel’s projections, if North Posey does not approve this bond and based on the state growth quotient projections alone, our tax rate will be back to 2021 levels within three years. To be fair, North Posey’s tax rate is very middle of the road compared to neighboring corporations. Again, when the corporation has needs, this is an ongoing conversation we should be having with our taxpayers. With another corporation bond rolling off in 2024, that would be the obvious time to make adjustments if the administration, the board, and the taxpayers find it necessary.

Quite honestly what we have here is an easy political opportunity. It’s an opportunity to take on additional debt at the expense of the taxpayer under the political cover of a level tax rate. I would argue most taxpayers pay little attention to their tax rate. What they do pay attention to is the dollar amount on the check they write each spring and fall for property taxes. Additional debt by a public entity can only be paid by additional taxes. This is fact. I am absolutely in favor of keeping our taxpayers informed of the current and future needs of the corporation. I’m very willing to have a conversation about the future tax implications of those needs. I’m not willing to vote to approve a bond which hasn’t been explained well and most taxpayers don’t even know is being considered.”

just have to go out and take a look.”

Council voted to allow Clark to look into the issue with a broker and bring back information at the group’s December meeting.

Council approved increasing the daily rental Murphy Park Shelter House from $30 to $50 for future reservations. Reservations made prior to November 15 will be honored at the $30 rate.

Councilman Tom Williams said both amounts are “ridiculously cheap.”

“If it’s something that we want to see maintain itself, I would think something like $75 or even $100 would probably still be a good deal for somebody,” Williams said, adding that if members wish to “inch it up, I’ll understand.”

Wade and Blaylock agreed that it was time to “inch it up,” but Blaylock said he didn’t want to “gouge.”

Other items covered by council: December 16 was set as the final day for town leaf pick up.

Members agreed to look into Marshal Chad Foreman’s proposal for a new Town Hall security system. Foreman provided a quote for $6,092 for a security system with a $75 monthly monitor and support fee. A fire-only system was quoted at $3,520 with a $45 monthly monitor and support fee.

They also agreed to research prices for a new backhoe to replace the 1995 model that members said has had several issues.

chase a commercial Christmas tree for downtown,” Lewis said.

Lewis said she appreciates the New Harmony Town Council for working with the NHBA on the project. She said members have contributed creative ideas.

New Harmony Town Council President Alvin Blaylock called the partnership a “winwin for the whole community.”

“The old decorations that we have have probably served their purpose. It was time to update,” Blaylock said. Blaylock said that although the Council couldn’t pledge the entire amount requested to replace everything, he said he believed the group was open to adding new items “in steps.”

He said he personally believes the town can continue to help with the project if asked.

“There can be more from us, if needed. I’m sure that we can come up with more money,” Blaylock said.

Blaylock said it is important to attract visitors and leave the town’s guests with positive memories that inspire them to invite friends and family.“(The ornaments and decorations) gives people visiting New Harmony something to remember us by and the things that we have to offer for them to come and see.

If they take an ornament home, maybe pass it on to their neighbors or relatives or show them…maybe it will entice more people to want to come and visit New Harmony,” Blaylock said.

He praised the NHBA and the community for working together on the project and showing their town pride. He said the adversity faced over the past three years has highlighted the importance of coming together.

“Everyone takes pride in their community. Especially at Christmas. It brings everyone closer together when everyone chips in (to help with community projects),” Blaylock said. “Everyone has gone through something for the past three years that is once in a lifetime. We’ve been able to buckle down and pull together and make it through.”

Coaches, and Kayla Sanford will fill the same role there for Girls’ Basketball. Stephen Hatch and Chris Lilly are South Terrace Volunteer fifth and sixth Grade Boys’ Basketball Coaches, and Hunter Alkire and Jacob Newman will do the same for seventh Grade.

Field Trip Requests were approved for these high school level team events: the, the Civics State Competition in Indianapolis on December 5-6, and the FFA State Entomology Competition at Purdue University, December 9-10, 2022.

Elise Murray will receive a $4,000 pay raise to her base salary for the 2022-2023 school year equal to the other administrators’ raises. She is the new Director of Special Education.

In other board action:

--Board member Larry Kahle initiated a discussion regarding the claim recently paid to Concept Sound and Light. He has concerns about the quality of the work and the equipment size. He said the 12 foot picture does not look right on the 24 foot screen. Two other projects pending soon they are doing will be monitored.

--At the beginning of the meeting, a moment of silence was observed for Margaret Rapp, a beloved retired math teacher, with over 20 years of service, who passed recently.

-The next regular board meeting will be Monday, Dec. 12 in the Administrative Office Conference Room. Executive session, if needed, will begin at 5:30 p.m. with the regular meeting to begin at 6:30 p.m.

ning with finger foods and soups and lots of fun.” Zion Baptist contributed 255 boxes. Late Sunday afternoon, Old Union Church in Poseyville dropped off nearly 500 of the shoeboxes.

“The youth group did theirs last Sunday night. The kids really get into it. Tracking is available through Samaritan’s Purse and the teen group loves this aspect of it. They look up the countries where their shoebox was delivered on Google and pin a map. The tracking report comes with a complete lesson all about the country and they learn so much!” Pierce enthused.

On Saturday morning, Alecia Schmidt, Mount Vernon High School Future Farmers of America Sponsor, supervised several club members who volunteered onsite to put shoeboxes into shipping cartons, sorting them by size. Sarah Pierce offered a prepared lunch free for their efforts upon completion.

The Rev. Trotter watched with pride as the volunteers worked all around him in the church meeting hall stacking shoeboxes atop the altar and on long tables. He politely requested they put some of them elsewhere, because the stacks were growing so high all around his podium. “I need some room to preach my Sunday sermon from the pulpit tomorrow. I don’t want to look like I’m playing behind a fort!” the good-natured cleric teased.

What is inside the boxes? A brochure from the program suggests starting with a quality “wow” item such as a stuffed animal, soccer ball with pump, or clothing outfit that will capture the child’s attention the instant he or she opens the box. Other gift ideas are for fun toys, hygiene items, and school supplies. Some things are not allowed, such as candy; toothpaste; gum; used or damaged items; scary or war-related items such as toy

guns, knives, or military figures; chocolate or food; seeds; fruit rolls or other fruit snacks; drink mixes, liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins; and breakable items such as snow globes or glass containers; and aerosol cans.

Last year the Mount Zion center collected 1697 shoeboxes. Sarah hoped to get at least 1600 boxes brought to the drop-off by closing at noon on Monday. From there, Woodie Puntney, Randy Stierley, Jim Gray, and Brian Roberts will pick up all the filled shipping cartons and make sure they get to the main area collection site in Darmstadt.

The gifts are shipped out to Processing Centers by the middle of December, and depending on the distance they must travel, some are delivered by Christmas, primarily those in Central/South America and Eastern Europe. Most of the gifts are sent via ship. Although the collection of Operation Christmas Child gifts is during the Thanksgiving/Christmas season, the delivery of some gifts may be delayed due to complex international shipping procedures. They may not clear customs in receiving countries until spring. In addition, many countries that receive shoebox gifts must transport the gifts to rural areas using very poor roads. Distributions typically occur from late December through spring each year, extending the joy of Christmas to children who receive them. The program was started in the United Kingdom in 1990 by Dave and Jill Cooke. Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has delivered gift-filled shoeboxes to over 198 million children in more than 170 countries and territories.

Samaritan‘s Purse ensures that Shoebox gifts are given to children regardless of their gender, ethnicity, or faith. Children do not have to do or say anything to receive the gifts. They are strictly a gesture of goodwill and

Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted.

Bill Denning, Funeral Director

‘Christmas Child’ continued from Page A1

Cashier Grace Schroeder helps wait on a line of people waiting to check out during the Sunday afternoon open house at 3 Chicks Fudgery in Mount Vernon. Waiting are Jalyn Burton, Janelle Burton, Synda Waters, and Linda Hawley. Photo by Dave Pearce

A line and a large group of visitors await while Alena Hinderliter wraps up her purchase with The Massage Studio’s owner Abbie Collins on a busy Sunday afternoon open house in Mount Vernon. Photo by Dave Pearce

card option can be used at the campgrounds — another gift card option is a $65 State Park Inns gift card. You also have the option of upgrading either to $100 by paying $35 more.

Indiana has 36 state park properties throughout the state. The entrance permit grants gate entrance for 2023 to all state park properties beginning Jan. 1.

The inns gift card can be used at any State Park Inn, as well as at the award-winning Pete Dye-designed golf course at Fort Harrison State Park in Indianapolis. The card can also be used for lodging, meals in the dining rooms, or gift purchases.

The camping gift card can be used toward the rental of

campsites, cottages, group camps, recreation buildings, renta-camp cabins, shelters, youth and rally camps, and cabins (excluding inns-operated cabins).

The camping gift card may also be used to purchase daily entrance, lake permits, horse tags, and any other items sold at gatehouses and park-operated stores and gift shops. The camping gift card cannot be used at any privately operated concessions, camp stores, marinas, or saddle barns.

The offer is available through Dec. 31, 2022, or when sold out. Gift packs can be purchased only at shopINstateparks. com.

THANK YOU isn’t adequate enough to share our deepest appreciation for your love and support this last week while we have been grieving the loss of our precious Zack Allyn. Friends and family from here and far away came to be with us, to celebrate his life, to support us, to love on us and to cover us all in prayers. The stories and hugs shared helped to brighten the mood. Whether you came to the funeral home, sent food, gifts, plants or flowers or donated money for Knox and Rhett, made sure we were eating/drinking, sent an encouraging text message or called, added us to your prayer list or remembered us in your thoughts and prayers, brought food to our home, helped in any way, or anything else, we are eternally grateful for each of you. The long line at the funeral home was a true testament to the lives that Zack touched. He was the best, kindest, most helpful guyour gentle giant. Your continued prayers are appreciated - Please remember MaKayla and the boys in your prayers, too. We all are seeking some much needed rest.

We continue to try to move forward by sharing Zack’s heart for others, his infectious smile and his blessed spirit. Help us strive to BE THE GOOD that Zack was in the world.

Kolton Gardner

Luke Rohlman

Max Renshaw

Trenton Englert

Wayne King

Wyatt Willman

Hunter Clifford

Jack Lowe

Jacob Lingafelter

Clay Sailer

Conner Motz

Dean Hester

Have Thanksgiving every day

Thanksgiving always comes and goes too fast. We often think, “We need more time to focus on the Thanksgiving holiday.” For many, it seems that Thanksgiving gets sandwiched between Halloween and Christmas.

B D . G M

By late September, many of the stores and television commercials are focusing on Christmas.

The only way we can fix the “fast Thanksgiving” holiday is to make Thanksgiving celebration every day. We shouldn’t wait until Thanksgiving to give thanks but give thanks every day.

A thankful heart is a healthier heart. Living in an attitude of Thanksgiving celebrates the gift of life and every opportunity to live life.

Many of us have dreaded the shorter days. Dark by 6 o’clock and soon by 5 or even 4:30 in some areas. I used to

always dread that but my attitude has changed. I’m just happy to be alive to experience the changing seasons. Take advantage of these cooler, shorter days to get some rest. Longer days will be back soon and you can mow grass, work or walk until 9 p.m., or later every evening. Go with the flow and enjoy the differences.

I miss the Thanksgivings when my mom and dad were alive and mother cooked. If everyone got together, we could have 20 people in the house. This was a tiring time for my mother. Be sure to always praise the person carrying the cooking load. Time passes quickly. Every day we should embrace the day. When you see someone, talk to someone, share a meal with someone then by all means embrace and savor the moment. Give thanks for all occasions that you have to spend time with others whether family or friends.

Thanksgiving is not the same for many of us because there are empty seats at the table. We miss moms and dads who have left us for a better place. We miss wives, husbands, children, and siblings who have left this life too early. This makes us sad

and dampens our spirits. Yet, look around and see the people who may not be here next year. There are no guarantees. Be kind, be loving. Say good words to them. Lift them up. It will make you feel better to give thanks for people and to anoint them.

Jesus was anointed by Mary the sister of Martha before his arrest and crucifixion. Some criticized her for doing it but Jesus said she has prepared me for the burial. Let her alone he said she has done a good work. After Mary finished anointing Jesus’ feet the house was filled with the smell of the ointment. When you love and are kind to people it always brings a better fragrance and atmosphere into the house. A part of this is showing Thanksgiving for them and toward them. Mary ended up with that ointment on her hands and in her hair. When you do good stuff for people to honor them a lot of that good stuff comes back to you.

Have Thanksgiving every day. Give thanks, express thanks and live in a spirit of being thankful. Your attitude will make your day better and encourage others around you.

Sometimes it is just the smell

Sometimes I catch a whiff, you know a smell, that takes me back in time, and I remember certain things, places, or events that took place in times past. Smells that mostly farm and ranch folks know about, or can relate to that others may not understand.

Is it just me, or does everyone have this same ability to reminisce about times past all sparked from just a smell? Sometimes those smells bring back good memories, others remind us of bad events, or hard times, and many smells bring up feelings of nostalgia...

Just the other day I caught the smell of dirt, I mean fresh earth. It quickly took me back in time and I remember plowing fields with an open station tractor. When I was getting ready for a new crop year. It’s something most farmers do at the beginning of a new season. To me it represents a fresh new starting point.

It also represents cleaning up the past. All the leftover old crop residues are turned under along with all the weeds and trash from the previous crop. It’s like a giant eraser that comes along and just wipes things clean again. Plowing up a year like 2019 just makes a guy feel good. In a way it helps to rid us of the problems that plagued us, and it gives us that feeling of starting fresh with a new, clean beginning. It gives

Jim Tomes, State Senator

Pay

In our most recent state budget, my colleagues and I prioritized increasing K-12 education funding so local school boards could do more to increase teacher pay. As a fiscally conservative state, Indiana was in sound financial shape, and we decided to once again invest in our future with targeted spending in education.

In the 2022-2023 state budget, we allocated $1.9 billion in additional K-12 education funding. We also supported requiring schools to spend at least 45% of state tuition support on teacher salaries. In addition, the budget requires schools that do not set a minimum teacher salary of $40,000 to submit a report to the Indiana Department of Education explaining their inability to meet that threshold.

With this new funding, local school boards were wellequipped to make significant adjustments to their teacher pay.

The Indiana Education Employment Relations Board recently released its 2021-2022 teacher compensation report, which shows every single school district in Indiana gave its teachers raises last year, averaging a raise of $3,572. That brings Indiana’s average teacher salary to $56,609 – and when you add in benefits, the average total compensation is $75,199.

us hope of a new and better year. It gives us renewed faith, and a chance to maybe do things a bit differently with the hope of a better outcome.

Some of the smells I love are that of a feed mill, of cottonseed meal and of steamed grain mixed with molasses all being rolled into feed, or the sweet smell of silage being dug out of a pile. To me it almost smells as good as a ribeye coming off the grill. Or the smell of a chile field when it gets close to harvest, or an onion field as it’s being clipped. Or the red chile dehydrator when they are drying and grinding red chile into powder. Or a field of fresh cut alfalfa that brings back memories of working with family and neighbors to get all the hay cut, baled, hauled, and put up in the barn.

There are those smells that bring a sense of nostalgia.

Of times past, memories of friends and loved one’s that have passed on, those memories that make my lip quiver and my eyes start to leak. It sometimes hits like a hammer now and then when I come across those smells.

I recently was at my mothers house and she wanted to give me my dads jacket. It was in perfect shape and a real nice heavy coat. I put it on and it fit really good, so I took it and wore it home. In the truck the scent of my dad who passed away two years ago started hitting my nose and a flood of emotion came over me. I don’t know why I get hit so hard by just a smell. I can’t describe it, but it is unique to only him, and it continually brings back bittersweet memories and it chokes me up...

Then there is the smell of saddles and leather, horses

and mules, and the millions of wrecks I had with them. Granddaddy’s old pipe and the smell of apple pipe tobacco. Of campfires and Christmas trees. Hogs and dogs. The smell of greasewood after a summer rain. When I catch a whiff out of the air I think about each smell, and it triggers some kind of memory cataloged away in my mind.

Then there are smells that just plain stink.

Like the smell of a skunk, which just last night my dog got in some kind of discussion with that ended badly for my dog and subsequently the wife and I. After smelling the dog this morning, it reminded me of several occasions when I’ve had close encounters with those striped kitties with a fluid drives that left me smelling fragrant... for months.

Believe me when I say there is nothing that gets that smell out of clothes or off the skin. Not lemon juice, not tomato juice, or baking soda... NOTHING. You’ll just have to wear it off. Your better off if you’ll just burn those clothes and be done with them.

Anyway, each of us has our own distinct and different memories all triggered by a smell. They stay forever in our minds, filed away in our own head, only to one day be awakened by small tiny smell.

So ladies if you want to surely and be forever remembered, go ahead and wear that loud perfume. Because I can still remember Mrs. Rowe from my childhood, and my nose still burns from whatever perfume she poured on. I can guarantee you’ll never be forgotten.

The world in ruins...

Donald Trump has declared he will make a third run for the presidency in 2024.

Joe Biden claims he will seek re-election.

Several Republicans, Ron DeSantis, Mike Pence, Mike Pompeo, and others are not so secretly hoping lightning strikes them, or maybe strikes Trump. Democrats Gretchen Whitmer, Kamala Harris, Cory Booker, and others are feigning fealty to Biden but may be looking wistfully at the effects of Father Time.

In other words, American politics remains unchanged from the days of Jefferson and Adams. It also has regenerated its tiresome media circus of peeking under tent flaps and salivating at the probability of political gaffs. So, buckle up or just tune out for the next two years. As for me and Peg we have been looking at the past, as the present is just too fractious. So, as the pundits and politicians squabble like infants with dirty diapers, Peg and I have been interested in viewing the ancient ruins that became ruins when the cultures of the past let their tantrums get the better of them.

A couple of years ago we visited Rome and walked around the Coliseum. One gets images of gladiators and emperors

who had no thought their pretentious edifice would be a mere pile of rubble one day. Then just last week we visited another ancient fort less than ten miles from our home in the country of Georgia. Georgia claims, according to the book Georgian Folk Traditions and Legends, to be situated at the juncture of Europe and Asia and to “[b]eing the most invaded country on earth.” For example, Russia that is Georgia’s neighbor to the north has most recently invaded Georgia in 2008 and 2014.

However, the fort we visited was built by several conquerors over thousands of years but was constructed in its present form on the orders of Roman Emperors Nero, Pompey, Julius Caesar Tiberius and Hadrian during the era 65 BC to the reign of Constantine, 306-337 AD. The name of the fort is Gonio-Apsaros Fortress and it is an impressive structure with ancient stone guard towers, sewage and water systems and Roman hot baths. Of course, today it is all just remnants of past glory. It is on the outskirts of the resort city of Batumi, Georgia near the shore of the Black Sea and about three miles from the Turkish border.

Gonio reminded us of the hauntingly impressive Native American pueblo village at Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado. This extensive cliff city was home to many Native Americans for over 700 years from 600-1300 AD.

Was it simply abandoned, and if so, why? But once again we observed an impressive series of homes and a mountain stronghold that now is interesting and beautiful, but not lived in by its creators.

I suppose there are many reasons we enjoy visiting these sites of once vibrant communities gone dormant. The inventive genius of our human ancestors gives one a sense of awe and appreciation for the hard work and perseverance of people who were probably quite similar to us. If we could transport them to modern times or transport us back to their times, everybody would most likely fit right in with just a little movie make-up and a change of clothes.

The conclusion or question that keeps us awake, for example I am writing this at 3:50 a.m., is that just as the country of Georgia has been conquered numerous times (as has Jerusalem by Jews, Muslims and Christians on a revolving basis, and Rome and Greece by Vandals and Visigoths and North and South America by Spanish, English, French and Portuguese invaders) are our ruins going to provide interest to tourists of the future?

For more Gavel Gamut articles go to www.jamesmredwine. com.

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The Posey County News - USPS 439500 is published weekly for $48 in-state and $53 out-of-state by Pearmor Publishing LLC, PO Box 397, New Harmony, IN 47631.

Periodicals postage paid at Mount Vernon, Indiana

Publisher: Dave Pearce

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G G B J J R The

are solely those of the original authors and shall not be considered the official position of The Posey County News and shall not be considered to be, or be relied upon as, a formal interpretation. Any content provided by our authors are of their opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything.

Improving Hoosier Teacher

PCCF awards more than $207,000 to 28 nonprofit partners

The Posey County Community Foundation has awarded $207,042.81 in grants to 28 local nonprofit organizations through its 2022 Community Good Grants program. This year’s grants provide flexible funding for a variety of charitable projects and organizations serving Posey County.

This year’s grant recipients were:

• $5,530 to Chemo Buddies to provide first-day chemo comfort kit bags (Chapstick, hand sanitizer, port pillow, neck rest, handmade warm blanket, tissues, game books, candy, chocolate, journal, pen, etc.), wigs, hats, and accessories;

• $14,600 to the Posey County Council on Aging to provide match money for the purchase of an eight-passenger lift vehicle replacement that is necessary for medical transportation in rural county Posey County for those in need;

• $12,000 to Youth First, Inc. to provide support to Youth First Social Workers in eight Posey County schools as they equip atrisk youth with tools needed to build strong and resilient futures;

• $2,413.13 to Family Matters of Posey County Indiana, Inc. to provide household cleaning and hygiene items to families;

• $7,000 to Thrive to provide high-quality, holistic afterschool programming to Mount Vernon youth in K-Eighth grade from West Elementary and the Mount Vernon Junior High School;

• $5,000 to Zion Lippe United Church of Christ to support the Partners in Food program which assists with the food needs of the Posey County food pantries and United Caring Services Inc.;

• $3,000 to Tri-State Food Bank to provide support to partner agencies in Posey County which will provide food for 150 households at risk of hunger;

• $2,500 to Holly’s House, Inc. to provide support for the Think First & Stay Safe child abuse prevention program targeting elementary students, teaching skills to keep kids safe from abuse;

• $3,250 to Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Inc. to provide funding to build and deliver fully furnished beds to kids who do not have a place to sleep;

• $3,000 to Happy Feet Equals Learning Feet, Inc. to purchase a minimum of 200 pairs of shoes for the most disadvantaged students in Posey County schools;

• $2,100 to Bread of Life Ministry Inc. to provide funds to pay the freight costs for donated food and to purchase food items at discounted prices to distribute to low-income families in the TriState area;

• $10,000 to Posey Humane Society to provide a low-cost spay/ neuter program for homeless dogs and cats in Posey County;

• $10,000 to Children’s Learning Center of Posey County to provide funding for adjustments needed throughout the facility including the playground, classroom materials, and policies/procedures to gain accreditation with NAEYC which would allow for more funding opportunities and be declared a high-rated learning center;

• $10,849.06 to Mount Vernon Ministerial Association River Bend Food Pantry to provide funding to upgrade equipment to make it easier for clients to transport food to their vehicles and to purchase food for the Summer Kid’s Program;

• $6,425.62 to Saint Paul’s United Methodist Church to provide materials needed for teaching geography using maps, as well as math using sewing and cooking at the MAGIC After-School Program;

• $6,700 to Posey County Domestic Violence Taskforce (Willow Tree of Posey County) to purchase essential supplies for victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse residing in the Willow Tree of Posey County Safe House and to purchase informational materials and promotional items which will be distributed throughout Posey County to reach victims of domestic violence and sexual assault;

• $5,000 to Trades for Tomorrow to provide funding for middle school students to visit local building trade schools and for supplies needed for the program;

• $8,000 to Deaconess Hospital Foundation to provide support in delivering mammography education and screening services to Posey County women in need;

• $10,000 to the New Harmony Volunteer Fire Department to update and add additional headsets to their frontline apparatus;

• $10,000 to Mount Vernon Youth Baseball to provide funding to assist in replacing older equipment and for minor improvements

to the facility;

• $7,500 to Mount Vernon-Black Township Parks and Recreation to replace old lights that have not worked for years with new LED lights at the tennis/pickleball courts at Brittlebank Park;

• $5,500 to the Town of Poseyville to purchase one (1) Guardian F speed display kit, 12volt 24-hour timer, and BO-watt solar power supply to help officers educate the public about the dangers of high speed traffic within town limits;

• $22,000 to Posey County Fair Association to update the Posey County Fairgrounds Main Arena lights to LED;

• $6,675 to Saint Wendel Catholic School to purchase 2-way radios to increase communication in times of emergencies;

• $3,000 to Saint John’s Episcopal Church to purchase furnishings and specifically safety devices for the DCS transitional house;

• $10,000 to Ribeyre Gymnasium Restoration Group to replace exterior east front doors;

• $10,000 to Rapp Granary-Owen Foundation to repair as needed all exterior wood e.g. windows, window frames, dormers, and overhang which includes scrapping, priming, and two coats of finish paint; and

• $3,000 to The Isaiah 1:17 Project to support three core ele-

ments

Funding

Atkins

To learn more about the Community Foundation and establishing a Fund to create greater good for Posey County, please visit our website at poseycountycf.org or contact Tamara Miley at tmiley@communityfoundationalliance.org.

Heckert Office Supports Toys for Tots Drive

Drew Heckert, a local Edward Jones financial advisor, is supporting the local Toys for Tots program by using his office as a drop-off location for this year’s toy drive.

Local residents may help make a difference for children in the area by bringing in a new, unwrapped toy to the office, 431 East Fourth Street Mount Vernon, Ind.,

during regular business hours beginning November 9 through December 9. Monetary gifts cannot be accepted.

“With the holiday season around the corner, we are all getting ready for the festivities,” Heckert said. “And as this is the season of giving, now is a great time to remember the less fortunate in our community.”

Waste Management to buy Avangard

The largest curbside garbage and recycling hauler in North America will acquire and scale up Avangard Innovative’s U.S. plastics recycling business.

In a Sept. 13 press release, Waste Management (WM) disclosed it reached a deal to buy a majority stake in Avangard’s U.S. business, which it will rename Natura PCR. Natura PCR is currently the name of Avangard’s wholly owned subsidiary PCR production business and the brand name for the PCR itself.

The deal marks the second major instance this year of a huge garbage and recycling services company expanding down the recycled plastics supply chain. In March, Republic Services, the second largest hauler in North America, announced a project to build a plastics sorting and processing facility in Las Vegas.

The publicly traded companies cited increasing consumer packaged goods brand owner demand for recycled resin in packaging, both from voluntary recycled-content goals and mandatory minimum-recycled-content requirements coming into effect in multiple states.

Based in Waller, Texas, which is near Houston, Avangard Innovative recycles PE films used in the commercial sector into recycled resin used by a number of companies, including HiCone Worldwide, which uses the pellets to produce six-pack carriers, and global chemical company Dow, which uses Natura PCR in its REVOLOOP line of PCR-content products. Rick

Perez

The release didn’t indicate whether existing company leadership would remain. It also didn’t disclose a dollar figure for the investment. Officials at WM and Avangard couldn’t be reached by Plastics Recycling Update for comment by deadline.

Planning significant growth

The announcement stated WM would acquire a controlling interest in the U.S. business and help grow its capabilities to produce about 400 million pounds of PCR annually in five years. Avangard’s website indicates the company currently has a capacity of 100 million pounds per year.

“This transaction helps the business quickly scale operations, maximize source feedstock and meet the continued rise in demand for environmental additives, such as recycled plastic resin,” Rick Perez, CEO and founder of Avangard Innovative, stated in the release. “After 30 years in the recycling business, WM’s significant involvement, coupled with the strong relationship with Dow and other customers, will set Natura PCR up to offer the most innovative end-to-end circular economy solution in the market.”

The release noted that WM already collects from commercial customers the scrap films that could feed Avangard’s plants. WM’s footprint and customer list can help generate increased volumes of scrap for recycling by Avangard.

“Today, there is so much untapped

potential to reuse film – which impacts many of our commercial customers,” Jim Fish, WM’s president and CEO, stated in the release. “We can help our customers close the loop and bring more recycled materials to the store shelf.”

The WM release said Natura PCR will both expand capabilities at the Waller facility and build a new plant in the Midwest.

The release noted that Natura PCR, a standalone business, “will focus on the mechanical recycling of film and flexible plastics.” Avangard is also involved in chemical recycling of hard-to-recycle scrap. Earlier this year, Avangard agreed to form a joint venture with Honeywell, which would provide the technology at the Waller plant needed to break down mixed and contaminated scrap plastics and produce a liquid fit for introduction into naphtha crackers for the eventual production of new plastic.

The WM-Avangard transaction is expected to close in late 2022, subject to closing conditions that include regulatory approvals. After the transaction, Avangard and affiliated entities will still hold a collective minority equity position in Natura PCR.

The Avangard deal is the second time this year WM has invested in a downstream business. In January, Waste Management announced it would purchase a majority stake in Continuus Materials, which runs a Des Moines, Iowa facility that recycles low-value mixed paper and plastic scrap into commercial roofing boards.

is founder and CEO of Avangard, and Jon Stephens is president of the Natura PCR business.

Members of the Tarty Tuckers 4-H club and their families recently gathered to enjoy their second of three end-ofyear fun activities, Family Night. They enjoyed a pitch-in meal of breakfast for dinner. Club leader, Dave Morlock, engaged the whole group in a competitive game of 4-H Jeopardy. The club will conclude the 2022 4-H season with their final event taking place on December 9-10, 2022 with a Christmas-themed lock-in. They will kick off the 2023 season on Sunday, January 8 with their first business meeting. If you are interested in joining 4-H/Tarty Tuckers, please contact the Purdue Extension PC Office,

Pictured are: Daphne Fribley, Lilly Donner, Benton Wehmer, Brayden Fribley, Davis Wehmer, Parker Wehmer, and Dharma Fribley.

of the F3 program-Bags of Hope, DreamCycles, and Christmas Hopes & Dreams in Posey County.

for the program is provided by donors and organizations establishing and donating to Community Good (Unrestricted) and Field of Interest Funds held by the Community Foundation. Those funds are:

Family Fund; CountryMark Black Township Fund; Morris Family Fund; Charles and Frances Crawford and Beth Ann Mosier Fund-Posey; Posey County Youth Council Fund; Posey County Community Foundation Founders & Futures Endowment Fund; ConAgra Fund; CountryMark Posey County Fund; Ella and

Stanley Maynor Memorial Fund; Friends of Posey County Fund; German American Bancorp Community Fund-Posey; Heritage Federal Community Good Fund of Posey County; Memorial Fund of Posey County; Posey County Veterans of Foreign Wars Fund; Robert and Carole Rust Fund; Smithville Charitable Foundation Fund of Posey County; Smithville Targeting Lasting Change Fund; Tom and Nelda Hickey Fund

Saint Paul’s United Methodist Church - Pictured are: Tony Noelle and Karen Davis.

New Life Adoption - Pictured are: Tony Noelle, DeeAnn Sheffer, and Lucy Steinhart.

Thrive Afterschool, Inc. - Pictured are: Tony Noelle, Joy Millay, and Michael Harshbarger.

Saint Wendel Catholic School - Pictured are: Tony Noelle and Hallie Scheu.

Town of Poseyville - Pictured are: Christy Foster, Tony Noelle, and Charles Carter.

Saint Philip Catholic Church to host ‘Catholic revival’

By Pam Robinson

In recognition of the Year of the Eucharist, Saint Philip Catholic Church will host a threeday Mission—November 28,29, and 30—with Fr. Tony Ernst, pastor of Saint Francis Xavier Cathedral in Vincennes, Indiana. The Mission will take place right after the first Sunday in Advent, November 27.

Saint Philip’s Faith Gift Shop will be open during the Mission, and some CDs will be available on the subject of the Eucharist. The usual faith merchandise will be on sale in the shop also.

The Mission will start at 6 p.m. each evening with Holy Mass, followed by Fr. Ernst’s teaching on “The Power of the Holy Mass.” Before Holy Mass, a Rosary for Eucharistic Revival will be said, starting at 5:40 p.m.

“Each petition has prayer tied to the Eucharist, like the Annunciation,” Saint Philip Mission Coordinator Deanna Goosens explained. “That petition asks for the grace to ‘Pray we imitate Our Lady and always give consent to the Mystery of the Body of Christ.’ This rosary is really beautiful. A different person from the parish will lead it each night.”

Not a professional Mission speaker, Fr. Ernst, or Fr. Tony (as he prefers to be called), describes himself as a simple parish priest. In his life as a parish priest over the past 24 years, he has served the majority of his time in

Haubstadt and Fort Branch. For the last three years, he has served at Saint Francis Xavier in Vincennes.

“I have a particular love for this topic, and I have done this at some other parishes”—parishes highly recommending him to Goosens.

“The recommendations came so strongly from laypeople in the pew within the diocese. That says a lot, I think,” she said. “A former parishioner [in a parish Fr. Tony previously served] told me about how many Catholic people he brought back into the church. Another friend in Saint Philip who knew him, said he had brought a couple of her friends back. They said, ‘I wouldn’t be Catholic if it wasn’t for him.’ That’s because he educated them. It was that they didn’t really understand the church teaching.”

When asked if a Catholic Mission has anything in common with a Protestant revival, Fr. Tony replied, “I think it does. I think it is a Catholic revival. You can call it that.

Catholics may not look at it that way, but it really is. It’s a Catholic revival in the sense that it’s meant to revive people’s faith.”

Fr. Tony believes also in the Mission’s goal to educate Catholics. About his topic, “The Power of the Holy Mass,” he states, “The overall goal is to strengthen not only our belief in the Eucharist, the gift of the Lord’s Body and Blood, but also to speak about how that strengthens us for our own life. It’s educational and, hopefully, more inspirational.”

To reach that goal, Fr. Tony already has an idea of his main points. “I’m going to do

a little walk through the Mass, the parts of it, to renew everyone’s understanding and belief in the importance of all of it. It may be a little historical even, in how we got to where we are in celebrating the Mass.”

Fr. Tony hopes for a good turnout to the Mission during this Year of the Eucharist. “The Mass, the Eucharist, is the center of our worship, our life as Catholics. We want to help people grow in that and to be strengthened in that, so that’s our reason for doing this,” he comments.

As Goosens emphasizes, “The Mission is a beautiful way to start Advent because Advent starts early this year on November 27. The Mission is the first three days after Advent on Sunday, so it’s a wonderful way to start the Advent season. It puts you in the right frame of mind to celebrate Christmas.”

She adds, “The world is so busy with technology. When you step quietly and you take some time for peace and quiet and you do something like come to a parish Mission, it’s calming in your life. It helps you discern what direction you should go and discern important decisions you need to make.”

Catholics seeking faith renewal, and perhaps Protestants desiring to understand the Catholic faith, could be blessed by quiet time at the Mission, especially during these tumultuous and uncertain times.

Local artists design new ornaments for ISM’s 92 county tree

The Indiana State Museum’s 92 County Tree is getting a facelift – 60 new ornaments from counties across the state will appear on the tree this year, with another 32 to follow next year.

Mark Ruschman, the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites’ senior curator of art and culture, has been approaching artists around the state since the beginning of 2022 to design and make new ornaments that reflect their county – “to bring recognition to things that were understated about the county or of interest to the artist.”

“The response has been great,” he said. “The artists like the challenge, but also, they’re honored to be considered for this project in the first place. They take a great deal of pride in the fact that their piece is going to be hanging on the museum’s tree. We’re creating a digital kiosk with a catalog so people can come in and look up their county and not only see the ornament on the tree but also read what the artist has written about the ornament – what inspired them, how they made their ornament and who they are as an artist.”

Some of the new ornaments highlight the county’s topography or its most famous sites. Others tell stories about the county – like Posey County’s ornament reflects the bald cypress swamps on the county’s southwestern edge, the southern floodplain (home to one of the largest Hopewell villages), the Mann site (100 CE, represented in the “rays” found on pottery shards), the hedge labyrinth planted by The Harmonist Society, and the corn and wheat that was and is important to native and contemporary economies.

Tom Wintczak is a potter who makes redware in the style of 18th and early 19th century potters. He founded Bee Tree Pottery in Posey County in 1997.

“These ornaments are going to be around for a long time,” Ruschman said. “As the fine arts curator, my job is to curate the tree as an exhibition, and I want to make sure we have the best work for it.”

Ruschman said trying to locate an artist in every county who could participate in this project certainly had its rewards but also has had its challenges.

He needed artists who could work in three dimensions. Who

could supply a sketch of what the ornament would look like and a narrative explaining the message of the ornament. Who could meet the specifications (basically, 10 inches by 15 inches and no more than five pounds). Who could meet deadline.

“It’s not that there aren’t plenty of artists out there,” he said. “It’s that this project requires a certain skillset, and sometimes you have to have a few different conversations to figure out whether this is going to work.”

The 92 County Tree has been a staple of the state museum since 2008. At the time, the two-stories-tall tree was decorated with a combination of ornaments created by artists or purchased through local historical societies.

“The ultimate goal is to represent all 92 counties,” Vice President of Experience Adam DeKemper said. “We’re the Indiana State Museum; we’re not the Indianapolis State Museum, so we want to have people from Indiana come in to enjoy the holiday season and have their county represented on this tree just like they’re represented on the building’s exterior with the 92 sculptures.”

a

The refresh of the 92 County Tree was made possible by

generous gift from Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites board member Melissa Caito.

Father Tony Ernst will lead a three-day Mission on November 28 - 30 at Saint Philip Catholic Church. Photo by Pam Robinson

Santa Claus, in his casual attire, reaches in to pull out the winner of the open house gift certificate the Cozy Cottage’s open house on Sunday afternoon. Jo Dawn Tomlinson and Bobbette Marshall are all smiles as a good turnout made the day special while Karen Carr has just completed her purchase. The following is a list of our door prize winners: 1. Samantha Hamilton (Cardinal Door Hanger), 2. Nancy Roach (Cardinal Door Hanger), 3. Sheryl Seifert (Cardinal Door Hanger), 4. Snowman wood Door Hanger (Angel Tucker), 5. Snowman Grapevine Wreath (Kim Cross), 6. Cardinal Lighted Picture (Don Hast), 7. Wooden Ornament Door Hanger (Amy Steim), 8. Snowman Door Hanger (Patsy Wagner), 9. Snowman Door Hanger, (Marilyn Curtis), and 10. Snowman Door Hanger (Karen Carr). Photo by Dave Pearce

Amanda and Michelle Seifert smile as another purchase is made at The Golden Rose’s Mount Vernon location during the Sunday afternoon open house. Ringing up the sale are Amanda Hamilton and Rachel Hathaway. Photo by Dave Pearce

Mount Vernon football coach Lukas Messmer resigns

By Trisha L. Lopez Luke Messmer’s tenure as head coach of the

In three seasons at the helm, Messmer’s Wildcats went 18-10, including a regular season record-setting eight wins in 2021.

Messmer announced his departure on Facebook and wrote that the decision was one “I’ve been dreading for a little while now.”

“I have decided to step down as head coach of the Mount Vernon (High School) football program. A combination of multiple factors has led me to this decision, with the primary one being the need to focus on my family and my own wellness,” Messmer wrote. “The opportunity to recharge and reconnect with those closest to me this offseason is some-

thing I’m very excited for.”

Messmer’s teams gave Wildcat fans much to celebrate.

Mount Vernon defeated Heritage Hills in dramatic fashion in his first game as a head coach…a come from behind 24-14 win against the then-defending Pocket Athletic Conference champions and state runners-up. It was the first time the Wildcats

had bested the Patriots since 1999. The Cats proved the win was no fluke a year later with a 23-15 victory at home.

Mount Vernon didn’t face county rival North Posey in Messmer’s first season due to a Covid-19 cancellation, but the Cats defeated the Vikings 42-14 at home in 2021…a game at which both teams and fanbases honored Posey County Sheriff Deputy Bryan Hicks by wearing blue in solidarity. The Vikings claimed the rematch in 2022, 28-13, in Poseyville.

The Wildcats averaged a nearly 31 point margin of victory in each of the team’s wins.

Two Wildcats, Jaden Wilson and Blake Ritzert, were selected to the Indiana AllState team. Messmer was chosen as an assistant coach for the 2022 state team as well. Messmer said youth

numbers are the highest in program history.

“The booster club support and community support are top notch and a big reason we were successful. This made being a coach at (Mount Vernon) a lot of fun,” Messmer wrote in his Facebook post.

Andy Baldwin, president of Parents Offering Positive Support (POPS), praised Messmer’s work with the booster organization and said son Beau “enjoyed playing for him.”

“Luke was very easy to work with, booster clubwise. Very approachable, easy to talk to, agreeable to new ideas and older traditions, both. He was a worker and jumped in and helped however he could,” Baldwin said. “His entire family supported the booster club by purchasing and donating items at our yearly fundrais-

ing events.” Baldwin called the 2020 Heritage Hills win “arguably (Messmer’s) best game coached and one I’ll never forget.”

“Coaching-wise, his record speaks for itself,” Baldwin said. “(The) 8-1 regular season record is the best all time at (Mount Vernon).”

Baldwin said his family wishes Messmer “the best in the future.”

Leigh Latshaw, Mount Vernon High School Athletic Director, called Messmer a “hard-working, energetic, young coach.”

“He put in a lot of time and effort for our program from the high school all the way down through the youth program,” Latshaw said. “We appreciate all of the extra time he spent on the road and here on campus to help us get better. We wish him the best

of luck in his future coaching endeavors.”

Messmer said he is thankful for “those who had my back during the last three years and all those who worked hard to raise the expectations of our program.”

Messmer thanked his fellow coaches from the youth level through high school for their commitment. He will continue to teach at Mount Vernon for the rest of the school year.

The Southridge High School alumnus was a junior varsity coach and varsity assistant for the Raiders before donning maroon and gray as a Wildcat.

“The past three seasons have allowed me the opportunity to live out a dream of mine and I’ll be forever grateful for the experience as (head coach) at Mount Vernon,” Messmer said.

Youthful Lady Vikings defeat Wildcats in county rivalry

By Trisha L. Lopez

The Lady Vikings basketball team overcame a first quarter deficit to claim a road 59-24 victory at Mount Vernon on Friday.

North Posey controlled the opening tip, but couldn’t score. Mount Vernon senior Mallory Nurrenbern snagged a defensive rebound and a basket by junior Cora Bell put the Wildcats on the board first. Vikings freshman Ella Weatherholt drew a foul and sank a pair of free throws to tie the contest. Mount Vernon reclaimed the lead on a pass from Bell to senior Lera Wilson two minutes later for a layup. Back to back turnovers by both squads put the ball back in North Posey’s hands and the Lady Vikings made it count with a triple by junior Ashton Elpers to put the visitors on top, 5-4, with three minutes to go in the quarter. Mount Vernon answered. Junior Arlissa Sharber banked in a three from the top of the key to give the Cats a 7-5 edge. They added another point on a free throw by Wilson on their next possession. North Posey freshman Jazalyn Ward scored with 1:26 remaining and the Vikings defense wreaked havoc on the Wildcats as they tried to get the ball past mid-court, forcing a 10-second call. Both teams had chances as the final seconds of the first period waned, but turnovers and missed shots kept either from gaining any ground and the Wildcats held on to an 8-7 lead at the end of the first quarter.

North Posey started the second quarter strong. A three by freshman Mallory Luigs shifted momentum and a Vikings steal led to a basket for Elpers, giving North Posey a 12-8 advantage. A takeaway by the Cats set up a Nurrenbern score, but the Vikings responded with a three by freshman Alyssa Heath. A three-point play by Wilson cut into the Vikings lead and a steal and score by Sharber tied the contest at 15-15 with five minutes to go in the half. North Posey failed to score and Wilson drove into the paint and was fouled. She hit one of two free throws to put the Cats back on top. A deuce by Heath gave the Vikings the edge for about 30 seconds until Mount Vernon freshman Hannah McNeece drew a foul and hit a free throw to tie the game at 17-17 with 2:51 remaining in the half. North Posey took over. Junior Ashleigh Blankenship scored to start a 14-0 run that gave the Lady Vikings a 3117 lead at the break.

North Posey allowed the Lady Wildcats to score just one field goal in the third quarter…a bucket by Wilson a minute into the period… and their offense exploded.

A 21-point third quarter scoring effort with buckets by Heath, Weatherholt, Blankenship, junior Makenna Bryant and Ward gave the Lady Vikings a 52-19 lead going into the final period. Mount Vernon outscored North Posey 7-5 in the fourth quarter, but couldn’t battle back.

North Posey Coach Jessica Schenk said she was pleased with the way her squad overcame first half adversity. She said she couldn’t have asked for a better two minutes of basketball than what her girls gave her to close the first half.

“We had some big plays from just about every girl and that’s all you can ask for,” Schenk said. “Seeing a group of freshmen, sophomores, juniors and seniors all come together is huge..girls that really haven’t played a lot of ball together. We’re starting to get there, doing the little things right. We still have our inexperienced mistakes, but we’ll get there. I feel like the sky’s the limit with this group.”

The Lady Vikings dominated Mount Vernon on the boards, out-rebounding the Lady Wildcats, 43-19. North Posey had 25 offensive rebounds. They also won the

turnover battle, 16-33.

Heath led all scorers with 10 points on the night. Ward had eight points, Elpers had seven points, freshman Elle Jo Johnson had six points, senior Lauren Kihn had six points, Weatherholt had six points and Bryant had two points.

Wilson led the way for the Wildcats with 14 points, one assist, four rebounds and three steals. Sharber had five points, two assists, two rebounds and two steals. Nurrenbern had two points, seven rebounds and six blocks. Bell had two points, one assist and four rebounds.

Mount Vernon fell on the road at Evansville Reitz on Tuesday, 82-29.

Sharber led the Cats with eight points, two assists, one rebound and one steal. Nurrenbern had seven points, two rebounds and one steal. Junior Abbey Ries had four points and four rebounds. Bell had four points, one assist, five rebounds and one block. Wilson had two points, one assist, four rebounds and one steal.

North Posey (2-1) will be back in action tonight at Evansville Central (2-4). Mount Vernon (1-4) will host South Spencer (2-1) tonight.

Mount Vernon High School football team ended on Friday.

Luke Messmer

Wildcat Lera Wilson finds a seam in the North Posey defense to get off a shot during this week’s game played at Mount Vernon. Photo by Garry Beeson

North Posey freshman Ella Weatherholt

finds herself surrounded by the enemy during this week’s win over Carmi-White County. Photo by Dave Pearce

Lady Viking swimmers place ninth in inaugural meet

By Chris Morlan

Yes, that is correct. North Posey does have a girls’ swim team. Last Saturday morning, the Lady Vikings competed in the schools first ever swim meet at the Mount Vernon Invitational. This meet had eleven schools competing from the local area.

Evansville

Team Scores: Evansville North 277, Mount Vernon 256, Jasper 245, Jeffersonville 222, Evansville Memorial 141, Heritage Hills 72, Evansville Reitz 50, Evansville Mater Dei 49, North Posey 31, Evansville Central 30, Southridge 22

North Posey individual results: 200 Medley Relay: 15. North Posey (Aubree Beyer, Izzy Walden, Sophia Stone, Mackenzie Carrier) 2:23.45; 200 Freestyle: 12. Aubree Beyer 2:32.60; 200 Individual Medley: 2. Sophia Stone 2:29.20;

50 Freestyle: 13. Aubree Beyer 28.38, 55. Chloe Newman 53.49; 100 Butterfly: 5. Sophia Stone 1:08.95; 100 Freestyle: 40. Mackenzie Carrier 1:28.88, 45. Mallory Shadley; 500 Freestyle: 7. Izzy Walden 6:21.67; 200 Free Style Relay: 17. North Posey (Mackenzie Carrier, Chloe Newman, Sophia Stone, Mallory Shadley) 2:49.51; 100 Backstroke: 32. Mackenzie Carrier 1:53.42, 34. Mallory Shadley 2:06.93, 37. Chloe Newman 2:25.65; 100 Breaststroke: 18. Izzy Walden 1:33.22

North Posey does not compete again until December 21 at the Boonville Invitational.

Lady Wildcat swimmers are dominant

By Trisha L. Lopez

The Mount Vernon girls swim team had a strong first week in the pool…claiming a season opening win over Tecumseh and Gibson Southern on Thursday and finishing second out of 13 teams at the Mount Vernon Invite on Saturday.

The Wildcats brought home wins in the 200 medley relay, 200 freestyle, 50 freestyle, 100 fly, 100 freestyle, 200 freestyle relay, 100 backstroke, 100 breaststroke, and 400 freestyle relay at Tuesday’s home opener.

The 200 medley relay team of sophomore Jaley Hamilton, sophomore Malley Wagner, junior Julien Glover and senior Kaleigh Kelley clinched a seasonopening win. Hamilton, Glover, Kelley and senior Sophie Kloppenburg were 200 medley relay sectional champions and state finalists in 2022. Sophomore Andrea Rutledge, freshman Samanth Bouch, junior Grace Reyes

and junior Maddie Maier finished in sixth.

Kloppenburg, a Columbia University swim commit, won the 100 and 200 freestyle races. Kloppenburg is the defending sectional champion and finished 13th in the state finals in the 100 freestyle and was a state finalist in the 200 freestyle in 2022. Hamilton finished second in the 100 freestyle and senior Haley Rutledge finished third in the 200 freestyle.

Kelley, an Indiana State University swim commit, won the 50 freestyle and the 100 breaststroke. Kelley won the 100 breaststroke sectional title and qualified for the state finals in the event in 2022. Maier finished third in the 50 freestyle and Wagner finished second in the 100 breaststroke.

Kelley, Wagner, Maier and Kloppenburg won the 200 freestyle relay. Bouch, Reyes, Andrea Rutledge and Haley Rutledge finished third.

Hamilton won the 100 backstroke with Glover in

second place.

Haley Rutledge, Kloppenburg, Glover and Hamilton won the 400 freestyle relay.

Freshman Ellie Blackburn, Andrea Rutledge, Bouch and Maier finished third.

The Wildcats claimed five event wins in the team’s second place finish on Saturday.

Kloppenburg repeated her 100 and 200 freestyle wins. Hamilton finished second and Glover finished in seventh place in the 100 freestyle. Haley Rutledge finished ninth in the 200 freestyle.

Kelley picked up her second win of the week in the 50 freestyle and 100 breaststroke. Glover finished fourth and Maier finished 10th in the 50 freestyle.

Wagner finished fourth and Blackburn finished 20th in the100 breaststroke.

Glover, Maier, Hamilton, and Kloppenburg won the 400 freestyle relay. Haley Rutledge, Reyes, Blackburn and Andrea Rutledge finished 13th.

Kelley, Wagner, Hamilton and Glover finished second

and Andrea Rutledge, Ellie Blackburn, Haley Rutledge and Maier finished seventh in the 200 medley relay.

Wagner finished sixth and Reyes finished 19th in the 200 IM. Haley Rutledge finished seventh and Reyes finished 15th in the 100 fly. Andrea Rutledge finished eighth in the 500 freestyle. Hamilton finished second and Andrea Rutledge finished eighth in the 100 backstroke.

The Wildcats earned 256 points en route to a runnerup finish behind Evansville North at Saturday’s invite.

Top 10 Team scores were: Evansville North, 277; Mount Vernon, 256; Jasper, 245; Jeffersonville, 222; Memorial, 141; Heritage Hills, 72; Evansville Reitz, 49; North Posey, 31; and Evansville Central, 30. Southridge, Evansville Christian and Evansville Bosse also competed.

The Wildcats will be back in action on Thursday, Dec. 1 at home against Evansville Central and Evansville North.

Vikings get first win at home

By Chris Morlan North Posey

girls’ basketball team bounced back from their opening game of the season to defeat the Carmi-White County Lady Bulldogs 65-31. “They are starting to play much better together,” North Posey coach Jessica Schenk said. “We are still working on what works best for us and we are not afraid to switch things up.” North Posey never lost the lead in this matchup. In the first half, North Posey’s defense forced Carmi to commit 15 turnovers. At the half, North Posey led by a score of 38-15.

The Lady Vikings continued to go full speed in the second half by outscoring the Lady Bulldogs 20-7. As time expired in the third quarter, freshman Elle Jo Johnson made a lay up to extend the Lady Viking lead to 36 points at 58-22. For the entire fourth quarter, the clock continued to run except for free throw shots and timeouts. With this win, North Posey improved their season record to 1-1.

Freshman Ella Weatherholt and Jaz Ward led the Lady Vikings in scoring with 14 and 13 points each. Mallory Luigs finished the game with nine points. Lauren King scored six points, Alyssa Heath with five points, Elle Jo Johnson with four points, and Ashleigh Blankenship with two points. “They are a fun group to coach,” Schenk said. “They push each other and battle every day, and that is all we can ask for.”

VARSITY, Monday, November 14, 2022, at North Posey

North Posey 19 19 20 7 — 65

Carmi-White County 4 11 7 9 — 31

NORTH POSEY (65): A. Heath 2 0-0 5, A. Elpers 4 1-2 12, A. Blankenship 1 0-0 2, M. Luigs 4 1-1 9, E. Weatherholt 4 6-9 14, L. Kihn 2 2-2 6, J. Ward 6 1-2 13, E. Johnson 2 0-0 4, J. Wehmer 0 0-0 0, L. Owens 0 0-0 0; CARMIWHITE COUNTY (31): J. Smith 0 3-4 3, A. Johnson 1 0-0 2, A. Elliott 0 1-2 1, C. Simmons 4 0-0 8, L. Pollard 3 0-0 6, M. Serafini 3 0-0 8, S. Lovell 0 0-0 0, A. Rager 0 0-2 0, E. Hawkins 1 1-2 3

3-point field goals: North Posey 4 (A. Elpers 3, A. Heath 1), Carmi-White County 2 (M. Serafini 2); Free Throws: North Posey 11-16, Carmi-White County 5-10; Fouls: North Posey 13, Carmi-White County 19

In the junior varsity game, North Posey beat Carmi-White County 35-18. The Lady Viking junior varsity team improved their season record to 1-1. North Posey jumped out to a 5-0 lead in the first quarter. Carmi closed out the first quarter with an 8-0 run to lead 8-5. The Lady Vikings went on a 15-0 scoring run in the second quarter to have a comfortable 20-9 lead at the half. North Posey outscored Carmi 15-9 in the second half to get the win.

Kyleigh Bender and Elle Jo Johnson led the Lady Vikings in scoring with seven points apiece. Katelyn Seibert, Mackenzie Mills, Addie Murphy, and Courtney Helfert each scored four points. Jenna Wehmer scored three points, and Laney Owens finished with two points.

Alyssa Heath led all scorers with 10 points on the night to help the Vikings defeat Mount Vernon over the weekend. The Vikings are 2-1.

NORTH POSEY

Mounmt Vernon High School’s Sophie Kloppenburg won all four events in which she participated to help the Wildcats get off to another successful season.

North Posey High School Boys Soccer Team award winners for 2022, left to right, are Troy Droege, Kaleb Herke, Carson Saltzman, Tate Wilson, and Matthew Wildeman.

North Posey High School Girls Soccer Team award winners for 2022, left to right, are Makali Carter, Kylea Devoy, Laney Owens, Zoey Bippus, and Reagan Koester.

North Posey finished ninth with 31 points.

North won the team scores with 277 points. Mount Vernon placed second with 256 points and Jasper rounded out the top three with 245 points.

Placing for North Posey were Sophia Stone finishing second in the 200-meter individual medley and fifth in the

100-meter butterfly. Izzy Walden placed seventh in the 500-meter freestyle and Aubree Beyer finished twelfth in the 200-meter freestyle.

Betty

Photo by Dave Pearce

Ann Stemple, with granddaughter Ella Steckler in arms, attends the open house at the Bridges of Hope at the First United Methodist Church of Mount Vernon on Sunday afternoon. Photo by Dave Pearce

David and Lincoln Dobleman direct traffic flow in the parking lot at the Salem Huesler UCC Annual Sausage Supper held Saturday afternoon at the church.

Photo by Dave Pearce

Junior High Viking boys get first win over Wood Memorial

By Chris Morlan North

Posey Junior High seventh and eighth grade boys’ basketball teams played their first home game of the season last Thursday night against the Wood Memorial Trojans. The seventh grade Vikings cruised to a 33-12 victory, while the eighth-grade boys made a huge comeback to win 30-28. Both teams are 1-1 on the season.

(Seventh Grade) North Posey 33, Wood Memorial 12: The Vikings took a 10-3 lead after one quarter played. In the second quarter, North Posey extended their lead to 18-6 at the half. The Vikings held Wood Memorial scoreless in the third quarter and were up 29-6. North Posey easily went on to win by 21-points.

Dylan Murphy led the Vikings in scoring with a game-high 13 points. Lane Young scored seven

By Chris Morlan

In their first home game of the season last Tuesday evening. The North Posey Junior High seventh and eighth grade girls’ teams played against the Southridge Lady Raiders. Both teams played well and beat Southridge. The seventh-grade team remains undefeated at 2-0, while the eighth grade improved their record to 1-1.

points. Brennan Reich finished with four points, Liam Kirby scored three points, Tyler Arnold with two points, Parker Magill with two points, and Maxx Brockett with two points.

(Eighth Grade) North Posey 30, Wood Memorial 28: This matchup did not start well for the Vikings. They were held to one point in the first quarter being down 11-1. North Posey played a good second quarter outscoring Wood Memorial 12-7 to go to the halftime break down 18-13. The Vikings kept up their momentum and tied the game at 24-24 after three quarters. Wood Memorial was held to four points in the fourth quarter and the Vikings escaped with a two-point win. Brayden Compton led the Vikings in scoring with 10 points. Brody Fehn scored six points, Easton Robinson with five points, Drake Sch-

(Seventh Grade) North Posey 36, Southridge

4: The Lady Vikings defense held Southridge scoreless for nearly two quarters. Southridge made their first basket of the game with 49 seconds left in the first half. North Posey led 20-2 at the half. The Lady Vikings held the Lady Raiders scoreless in the third quarter and extended their lead to 27-2. In the fourth quarter, North Posey kicked it back a gear and ran out

weizer with three points, Trevor Sikes with three points, Ethan Ashby with two points, and Will Bippus with one point.

The North Posey boys seventh and eighth grade basketball teams played their first game of the season last Tuesday night at Southridge. Both games were close but both Viking teams took a loss in their first game of the year. The seventh grade lost 31-24 and the eighth grade lost in overtime 35-33.

(Eighth Grade) Southridge 35, North Posey 33: This was a back-and-forth matchup between these two schools trading baskets and lead changes. As time expired in the fourth quarter. This game was tied at 32-32. Southridge made one three-point basket which was enough in overtime for the two-point win over the Vikings. Sam Gas-

the clock to post the win.

Izzy Hallam led the Lady Vikings in scoring with a game-high 12 points. Chloe Kirchoff finished with 11 points. Gabbi Cooper scored six points, Braelyn Barrett with three points, Adryanna Sisk with two points, and Jocelyn Tuley with two points.

(Eighth Grade) North Posey 18, Southridge 16: The Lady Vikings had a tougher battle in their matchup against Southridge. North Posey scored the only basket in the first quarter for the two-point lead. Southridge scored six points in the second quarter to take a 6-4 lead at the half. In the third quarter, North Posey retook the lead at 12-9. This game went down to the wire with North Posey escaping with the victory.

Taryn Wilson led the Lady Vikings with eight points. Chloe Kirchoff scored four points,

ser led Southridge in scoring with a game-high 19 points.

Brayden Compton and Trevor Sikes led the Vikings in scoring with 10 points each. Brody Fehn finished with six points, Drake Schweizer with four points, and Ethan Ashby with three.

(Seventh Grade) Southridge 31, North Posey 24: In the opening game of the evening, North Posey faced a tough matchup against the Raiders. After one quarter, Southridge led 10-7, then extended their lead to 20-14 at the half. During the second half, Southridge only outscored North Posey 11-10 in the final two quarters.

Dylan Murphy led the Vikings in scoring with a game-high 13 points. Brennan Reich finished the game with nine points, and Will Barton scored two points.

Sarah Goedde with two points, Mady Nightingale with two points, and Addi Doubler with two points.

(Eighth Grade) Wood Memorial 28, North Posey 17: Last Thursday night, the Lady Vikings traveled to Oakland City to play the Wood Memorial Lady Trojans. There was only one game scheduled and that was the eighthgrade matchup. Wood Memorial jumped out to a 17-2 lead after one quarter. North Posey struggled and could not recover from such a deficit to lose 28-17. The Lady Vikings was down 22-4 at the half and cut the Trojan lead to 15 at the end of the third quarter at 28-13.

Izzy Hallam led the Lady Vikings in scoring with six points. Sarah Goedde finished with five points, Kayla Lindenschmidt scored four points, and Taryn Wilson with two points.

United Way of Posey County’s celebrates Day of Caring

Special to the News

The United Way of Posey County just completed its 7th annual Day of Caring event this past Friday, September 23rd with 310 volunteers completing 46 projects across Posey County, which was generously sponsored by SABIC.

Dan Ritter, Chair of the event, commented on the Day of Caring. “We had an outstanding number of volunteers on such a beautiful day, making a huge impact on our community. The Day of Caring is a great example of how the United Way not only raises funds, but also brings together volunteers focused on making a difference.” Teams involved in the event were Qualex, AztraZenca, Infinity Molding, CenterPoint and the CenterPoint AB Brown Plant, CGB, Apex Engineering, GAF, Valero, Brands Safeway, Nix’s, BWXT, two Mount Vernon High School student teams, Bankers team (members of United Fidelity Bank,

Fifth Third, Crane), North Posey High School students, New Harmony Garden Club, MV Master Garden Club, the Mayor of MV, 11 SABIC teams and a SABIC retirees’ group. To start the day breakfast was sponsored by McDonalds and Subway and delivered by United Way of Posey County staff and board members.

Keely Winiger, Executive Director also commented.

“One of the key themes of the United Way of Posey County is Local People helping Local People and the Day of Caring truly exemplifies this. We hope that this love of our Day of Caring spills over to our campaign. Financial support for our agencies needs to help our community is critical as well.” This year’s campaign goal is $575,000. This campaign will support funding to: Albion Fellows Bacon Center, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boy Scouts of America Buffalo Trace Council, Catholic Charities, Children’s Learning Center,

Christian Church Day Care Center, Community Emergency Assistance, Easterseals Rehabilitation Center, Easterseals Rehabilitation Center – Posey County, Family Matters, Lampion Center, New Harmony Ministry Associa-

tion, Posey County Council on Aging, American Red Cross - Posey County, Salvation Army, and Willow Tree of Posey County, and a new program with NewLife, which is a program that will work with animals and chil-

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Justin Schmitt, Chris Herr, Jake Tucker and Jessie Jones, all from team Crane Credit Union, work at Brittlebank Park during United Way Day of Caring.

Blake Winternheimer and Jason Gibson with Infinity work at the Fairgrounds during the recent United Way Day of Caring. Photos by Dave Pearce