March 31, 2020 - The Posey County News

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SINCE 1882 Successor to The Poseyville News & New Harmony Times POSEY COUNTY’S ONLY LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NEWSPAPER

Volume 140 Edition 13

Tuesday, March 31, 2020

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Town Hall staff to work from home

By Lynda Baker A special meeting was called by the Poseyville Town Council last week for the purpose of appointing a representative for the town to the Posey County Board of Zoning Appeals, and to discuss the town’s response to COVID-19.

Former Town Council member Ronald Fallowfield was unanimously appointed to serve on the Board of Zoning Appeals.

The Council and Clerk/Treasurer, Christie Foster, announced that, for the time being, town hall staff members will be working from home as much as possible, and utilities will not be shut off due to overdue payments. Town hall staff will continue to make collection calls in order to keep customers mindful of their overdue bills. Payment penalties will also be suspended as long as the Governor’s emergency orders are in place.

Town residents are reminded that it is a fineable offense to turn their own utilities off or on.

Utility personnel will still respond to service calls and will be wearing personal protection while doing so.

They will be driving separate vehicles, washing their hands often and keeping their equipment as clean as possible during this time.

Utility worker Oscur Briggeler informed the Council that the town’s water treatment chemicals are well stocked and were ordered ahead by Superintendent Jeremy Farrar. He added that area communities plan to share resources and personnel, if necessary, during the Coronavirus crisis.

Briggeler would like to remind town customers to be careful what they are flushing into the town’s system, as not all items labeled as “flushable” truly are. Items other than toilet paper will clog pump and lift stations.

The Council approved a 14-day sick leave policy for personnel who may become ill during the crisis.

Town employees were encouraged to limit interstate travel.

There was a discussion regard-

ing the possibility of certain county, state and federal tax funding for the town being delayed over the next few months, which would affect the town’s income. Income from town utilities will also be affected by the closure of some of the larger businesses in town, the impact of which should be known by April. All town departments were encouraged to conserve their allocated funds and to purchase only necessary items. Council President Bruce Baker advised that the Council will be watchful for any grants or other funding that may become available from the federal government.

The Council decided to proceed with some necessary preparation work for the Community Crossings summer street project, with any unnecessary projects to be put on hold.

They will revisit the matter in June, when the town expects to receive property tax distributions.

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MV Main Street clean-up overdue

By Lois Mittino Gray The eyesore that is the Tresslar Building in Mount Vernon is on its way to having the “walls come tumblin’ down” for good. The Mount Vernon Common Council has made it a goal to get the disintegrating building demolished by the end of the year, whether the city gets a much-sought after OCRA grant to do it or not. Mount Vernon Mayor Bill Curtis said the deteriorating structure is shored up and safe for now, as bricks recently fell off the back of it.

The March 12, meeting of the council served as the first public hearing on the Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) application for the community development grant. Councilwoman Jillian Brothers made the motion to move forward in applying for the demolition grant and authorizing Curtis and Clerk-Treasurer Sitzman to sign supporting documentation necessary in the application process. It passed unanimously.

As a result of that action, Steve Marchand and Andy Zellers, representatives of the Economic Development Coalition, conducted the required first of two public hearings before the application can be sent off. Marchand presented the budget and said EDC will assist Mount Vernon in the demolition of 403, 409 and 411 Main Streets on a Blight Clearance Program. The total cost of the project will be $600,000, with $500,000 coming from OCRA and $100,000 to be paid by the City’s EDIT Fund.

Going over the timetable, the grant application will be submitted by May 15 after the second public hearing at an April council meeting. If the city gets the grant award, it will be notified in June, papers signed in July, and the bid documents finalized in October. After advertisement, the sealed bids will be opened in November and the contract awarded to start demolition in December. The whole

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Little Willow Kimball enjoys the sunshine riding her tricycle in New Harmony this week. The outside offered a reprieve from the COVID-19 quarantine. Photo by Dave Pearce

Axton concludes record-setting 40 year DNR run

By Lois Mittino Gray Paul Axton recently set a record when he retired as an Indiana Conservation Officer. The Wadesville native is the longest serving conservation officer in Indiana history, working a total of 40 years, seven months and two days before taking off the badge. “When I started the job, I never expected to do it for so long, but it involved so many of the outdoor activities that I loved to do,” he reminisced.

“I was always outdoors as a child.

I delivered papers for five years all over town, since I was nine-yearsold. I camped and fished as a youth and was active in Boy Scout Troop 490. In fact, I was the first to make Eagle Scout from our troop,” he recounted. “As a teenager, I attended a summer law camp at the University of Evansville, but that was focused more on being an attorney, and it just didn’t interest me. Then, between junior and senior year at North Posey High School, I was sent to the state police career camp and there I was Paul Axton receives a plaque from fellow conservation officer introduced to my first conservation Duane Englert showing his off duty clock and his three badges worn officer. I had no prior contact with as he moved up through the ranks . Photo submitted an officer like this before and I was

impressed with what I saw,” he observed.

Axton set being a CO as his goal and worked his way up through the Department of Natural Resources by starting out with summer employment at Harmonie State Park. Graduating from high school in 1976, he attended the University of Evansville

and then transferred over to the Vincennes University Conservation Law Program. Vincennes was one of only three schools in the nation offering that course of study at that time. He was hired by the Indiana DNR immediately out of college in 1979. Axton

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Cynthiana meeting set The Town Council of the Town of Cynthiana will hold its April meeting, which is schedule for Monday, April 6, 2020, at 7 pm for purposes of conducting essential Town business.

At this meeting, the Council will consider the establishment of a Cumulative Capital Development Fund under the provisions of Indiana Code 36-9-15.5 for the purposes as follows: For all uses as set out in Indiana Code 36-9-15.5 . The meeting will be held at Town Hall, which is located at 10765 Main Street, Cynthiana, Indiana.

With regard to the Cumulative Capital Development Fund, the

Town previously published notice in the Posey County News entitled “ NOTICE TO TAXPAYERS OF HEARING ON PROPOSED CUMULATIVE CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT FUND ” .

Due to COVID-19, the public will have the opportunity to be heard on the Cumulative Capital Development Fund both: (1) in person and (2) remotely via a web meeting. The instructions for the web meeting are as follows: Join from PC, Mac, Linux, iOS or Android at: https://meetings.ringcentral.com/j/8125064074 or by Telephone Dial: +1(720)902.7700 Meeting ID: 812 506 4074.

A little child shall lead them

Ten-year-old gets creative in keeping ‘in touch’ with her friends

By Conner Voegel Words and phrases such as “social-distancing,” “shelter in place,” and even “collapse” have Americans on edge. Measures inhibiting socialization simply go against our very nature and understandably cause great anxiety. Economic uncertainty has shaken every household and industry in the nation. People are worried, and rightfully so. Nevertheless, rays of hope rise every morning as we hear about China and other countries gradually releasing lockdown measures, the heroic measures healthcare workers are taking every day, and possible therapies being tested in multiple states.

However, the brightest rays of hope have quite possibly gone somewhat unnoticed while they draw with chalk on your driveways and run around your backyard.

Maddie Thomas, a ten-year-old girl and fourth grade student at North Elementary School in Poseyville, began writing letters to residents in her neighborhood to keep connected with others while the MSD of North Posey is out of session. When asked why she decided

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to begin writing these letters she said that she wanted to keep in touch with the neighborhood kids since they cannot play right now, wanted to get to know some of the residents she has never met, and also reminded me it began because of her thoughtful nature. Maddie has received help from her younger brother, Mason Thomas, a six-year-old kindergartner at North Elementary. Mason has provided great ideas for Maddie to write about, and is also the artist of the pictures drawn at the bottom of the letters.

Maddie and Mason started this project to spread joy and keep connected. In fact, Maddie said she is so excited her work will go noticed because “she never believed anything like getting her name in the paper would ever happen.” She is even more excited because once school reopens, she plans to show the article to all her friends and tell them about her experience.

Although it is tough to learn a while lot about a person’s life from just one or two examples, you can learn a little about Maddie

from talking to her and seeing a few of her letters. One thing clearly stands out. She undoubtedly embodies North Elementary’ s mascot, North Elementary Stars. Maddie hopes to one day become a professional gymnast or a veterinarian, but said right now she is thinking a veterinarian is her best option so she can use her thoughtful nature caring for and working with her favorite animals, specifically hamsters. Until then, she plans to continue spreading joy throughout her subdivision.

Therefore, as you spend these coming days with your children and notice all their mischievous decisions, also take time to listen to their words and see how they react during these times. The therapies, vaccines, and flattening of the curve will certainly help now, but seeing how children react will help us all for the future. Life tells us we cannot always act or think like children, and I do not dispute that; however, life also shows us that children have the best outlook on life, and maybe sometimes it is ok for us to briefly see life through their eyes. Thus, in these coming days I think it is

Maddie Thomas a great idea to not only see and listen to your children’s reactions during these times, but also briefly think and act like them when anxiety kicks in.

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Coming from a different perspective: COVID-19

I most generally attend church on Sunday B D morning. I’m probably P not like most people but I can’t help who I am. Sometimes I agree totally with what the preacher says and sometimes I don’t. And then there’s an occasional Sunday when I’m there in body but not in mind or spirit so I don’t really know if I agree or not because I didn’t pay much attention. Is anyone else like that?

A couple of weeks ago, I paid close attention as our minister talked about “perspective.� He talked about how all the situations in life can change completely just from one simple word, perspective.

We’ve all heard the old adage, “Is the glass half full or is the glass half empty?�

Over the past few weeks, I have wrestled with my conscience as to whether or not to write something like this. As a journalist, I have a responsibility to people to try to make them realize that COVID-19 is real and people need to do whatever they can do to help stop the spread of the virus. Everywhere I turned, I heard nothing but how bad things are and how many people the virus has aected. That was the person talking in my right ear.

The person talking to me in my left ear was not quite so pessimistic. I continued to wrestle with this topic, it was my job to report the facts. Facts are facts and numbers are numbers and it’s my job to report all sides, not just one. Again, the voice in my left ear has been telling me that my colleagues have not reported all the facts but only one side of them.

So as the tension continued to build within me, I couldn’t help but say something to my wife about the struggle that was going on inside me. She listened and quickly came up with the idea that if I were going to write something dierent than anyone else in the news, perhaps the Opinion page was the place for it.

That really didn’t settle the dilemma with which I wrestled but after a lot of thinking, I decided if I put it on an Opinion page instead of a news page, it would accomplish at least one thing. That one thing was that at least it would get it o my chest and out of my system. So here goes.

Ever since I ďŹ rst heard the term COVID-19 or Coronavirus, I have heard nothing but the gloom and doom that go along with

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MARCH 31, 2020

it. I’ve thought about it so much that one of the ďŹ rst things I did was turned to an old friend who lives in China to try and ďŹ nd out the whole truth about this “pandemic.â€? To my surprise, my old buddy, living not too far from the world epicenter of the virus of Wuhan, could tell me nothing worse than I was hearing daily on local, state, and national news.

But still, I ďŹ gured, with all the deaths in Italy and all the sickness and death in countries around the world, there must not be anything I could say with any respectability, except that the proverbial sky was falling‌or could I? I’ve studied all the numbers. There are a lot of people sick and there are people dying. However, there are a lot more people who are not getting sick at all and a lot more people who aren’t dying. So I decided I owed it to the people who read The Posey County News to get real with the numbers and hopefully be able to put people’s minds at least a little bit more at ease.

In China, where the pandemic is said to have begun, there are 1.36 billion people, many who live virtually on top of one other because of the shear numbers. Of that 1.36 billion people in China, it is reported that there have been 81,470 conďŹ rmed cases. Of that number, 75,700 have completely recovered. Yes, some have died. As of March 29, according to the Chinese Post, there have been 3,304 deaths attributed at least in part to COVID-19.

You can look at those numbers and say, “Wow, that’s a lot of people.� But you can also look at the same numbers and say, “Wow, that’s not very many people.� It’s all a matter of perspective, you know the subject of my pastor’s sermon. The optimist in me says that in China, 1,359,182,590 people were never diagnosed with COVID-19. Wow, that’s a lot of people.

To break down those same numbers in America, and even to Indiana, it sends an even more clear and realistic message. First of all, there are many more tests available in America than any other country per capita on earth, Of the 328,239,523 people living legally in America in 2019, slightly more than 140,000 individuals have tested positive for COVID-19. That means that over 328 million people in America have not tested positive for the virus. According to information Sunday in the New York Times, one headline read “Coronavirus Slowdown in Seattle Suggests Restrictions Are Working.�

In the worst-ranking state in America, there are just shy of 60,000 conďŹ rmed cases of COVID-19 among 19,795,791 New

Covid-19 and Churches Shaking Hands

In the old days, Church pastors frowned on their church members staying home to watch television preachers Rex Humbard, Jerry Falwell or Robert Schuller.

The sick and the very elderly were typically pardoned but that was as far as grace was extended. The vast majority of churches across the land did not televise their services or broadcast church on the radio. Traditionally churches have preferred keeping their ock coming to the “house of God.â€?

Essentially most churches haven’t changed their philosophy. Congregations have always enjoyed “gathering� to sing, hear sermons, eat meals together and importantly -shake hands.

Media ministry in the old days was usually reserved for the large and auent churches that could aord to buy television time or at least radio air time. Television broadcasting has always been expensive and so very few churches have been able to televise their services. A few more churches through

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the years have been able to aord radio time.

I remember one of my old-time preacher friends shaming his congregation one Sunday. He said, “One reason you people should not sit home and watch church on your television is because you can’t shake hands with your television.�

The church has always placed a lot of emphasis on “togetherness, shaking hands, hugging and embracing others.�

Now, no one wants to shake hands and embrace each other. Because of Covid-19 people are trying to stay six feet apart. Furthermore, almost every minister and congregation in the country has the ability to broadcast his or her service via the Internet or Facebook. Media ministry now is available to almost everyone. Ministers now want people to tune in on Facebook or whatever media they are using. Ministers still prefer that people attend church, but if they are the “onesâ€? being watched then it’s ďŹ ne.

It’s ironic how things change. What used to be kind of taboo for some churches is widely embraced now. One of the reasons is because it’s so avail-

able. It’s also aordable. People have computers and cell phones. People are on Facebook or have some other Internet accessibility. Radio airtime is more aordable in many areas. Things and times change. Plus, we’ve never been hit by anything like this pandemic where people are being told to stay home and that church is o limits. Whoever thought that church attendance might be ordered by the governor to be o limits?

Many houses of worship began building their websites years ago so that members could do their giving online.

This is a good thing especially if people are already in the habit of donating this way. Churches who do not gather typically never recoup their giving. Some faithful members will catch up on charitable giving but most will not. Churches along with everyone will suer during this pandemic.

Houses of faith will survive during this virus crisis but life will change for most congregations. Many will be excited to get back to the church pew and shaking hands when they can. Or, they may conclude they don’t need to shake hands anymore.

York residents. Somewhere near 1,000 who tested positive have died, at least in part, due to COVID-19. So 19,736,000 New Yorkers have not tested positive for the virus and that state’s cases make up 42 percent of the nation’s total conďŹ rmed cases of the virus.

Closer to home, the State of Indiana boasted a population of 6,732,219 in 2019. There have been right around 1,500 individuals who have tested positive for the virus. There have been nearly 10,000 people who showed symptoms serious enough to be tested. Of the 1,500 who tested positive, the death toll, which consisted of individuals who expired, at least in part, due to COVID-19, reached 32 on Sunday.

So what is the point of this editorial? I simply want individuals to know that there’s no reason for the panic and the fear that have become associated with this virus. Is it serious? Of course it is. Should you take all the steps you can to prevent its spread?

Of course you should. As a country and a state, are we doing as much as we can to prevent others from becoming ill? I believe we are.

Are there going to be more cases of the virus? Yes, of course there will. But are the greatest majority of Americans ever going to be aected by COVID-19? I believe probably not, when all is said and done. And just as the naysayers have numbers to back their fear and panic, I have even more numbers to say that the greatest majority of Americans will not be aected by this virus.

I write this not to diminish the respect that individuals should have for safety precautions and steps being taken to prevent the virus. But primarily, I write this so people will realize that the sky really is not falling and the greatest majority of the gloom and doom is overstated. The World Health Organization has calculated the mortality rate of COVID-19 world-wide at somewhere around 3.5. This means that of every 1,000 conďŹ rmed cases in the entire world (including third world countries), between three and four people will die at least in part from the virus.

Take heart, Posey County and America. This is another bump in the road. We have not experienced too many bumps in the road in recent years. Many younger people have never felt the eects of illnesses or of war. Over 1,200,000 died in the Vietnam War alone. We will get through this. Be aware but not panic-stricken. After all, it is all in your perspective.

Letter to the Editor Help keep systems working I know that during a time when we see the situation in New York and New Orleans, and maybe even CV 19 related issues with family and friends, that sewer line issues may be the farthest thing from our minds. Even so, as the crisis worsens, people may resort to using and ushing disinfectant wipes, wet wipes, paper towels, and other disposable products as an alternative to toilet paper. These products are not designed to disintegrate like toilet paper and can create problems in sewer lines and treatment plants. These blockages can occur in your laterals as well as the city’s lines. Even if you are not on city sewer it can create problems in septic systems.

This is just one more thing we all need to be aware of as we work together to get through this diďŹƒcult time, as

we surely will.

Thank you all for your consideration and assistance.

Our municipal employees in Mount Vernon and throughout the country are working to insure there are as few interruptions as possible to our lives.

Certainly the healthcare professionals, truck drivers, grocery store workers, police, and ďŹ rst responders all deserve our appreciation, but I just wanted to mention and say how much I appreciate the eorts of the people who pick up our trash and insure that we have water and sewer services.

I guess the bottom line is that it does take all of us working together to get through this. Wouldn’t it be nice if we all continued to work together and appreciate everyone’s work after we get through this crisis?

G. William Curtis, Mayor

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Some modest proposals regarding the plague year

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this time, are inarguably lovely to look at, but somewhere along the line the Bradford pear went rogue.

Now you see them on hillsides and in ditches along most highways east of the Mississippi River. They crowd out and supplant native species wherever they take root.

According to Ira Pollof, director of the Center for Species Control (CSC), extreme measures may be needed to keep the Bradford pear from taking over the continent. “One of the things we looked early on at was to build corrals around groves of the trees to keep them hemmed in,� said Pollof. “But it was rightly pointed out that these trees would almost certainly jump the fence.�

As an alternative, the CSC is studying the possibility of building

America faces a plague the likes of which it has never faced.

Originating in China, this pandemic ďŹ rst took root in the eastern United States, and it has since spread like wildďŹ re across the eastern half of the United States, and if left unchecked, threatens to conquer the West as well. This pandemic, of course, is Bradford pear proliferation (BPP).

Back in the 1980s, the whiteblossomed trees began to make their appearance in medians of urban boulevards and in suburban lawns.

Their blossoms, which burst into bloom like popcorn every year about

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domes over Bradford pear groves to prevent the spread of their seed beyond the containment area. “Admittedly, this would be costly – just how costly we can only guess -- and we would have to build the domes when the trees ďŹ rst blossom.

That only gives us a two or threeweek window,� Pollof pointed out. “In April, their leaves turn green, and they look pretty much like any other tree.�

Oriignally the CSC proposed uprooting all Bradford pears and deporting them to their country of origin, but that task proved too daunting. “There’s just too damned many of them to do that. They proliferate every day. I’m afraid the problem may have grown bigger than we can handle, “ Pollof said.

Researchers are currently seeking biological answers -- perhaps introducing a blight like Dutch elm disease or an insect like the ash borer – something designed speciďŹ cally to wipe out the Bradford pear tree. “The problem with this is that we can’t foresee the consequences,â€?

Pollof said. “We certainly don’t want to create an antidote that is more malevolent than the problem it is designed to cure.�

One of the more radical plans on the table concerns the use of napalm and defoliants like Agent Orange. “We might be able to bring the problem under control with these measures. Shucks, one napalm bomb can wipe out a whole forest. Of course, we would have to be precise in our drops or we run the risk of endangering native species,� Pollof

cautioned. “And if this gets out of control, Whoa Nelly!�

Paloof said there is also the problem of convincing citizens that the use of incendiary bombs or defoliants poses only minimal health risk. “Some people are very paranoid about that stu,â€? Pollof said. “Convincing the public is going to take some serious PR work.â€? “I recognize that these are all radical solutions, and they all carry risks.

But these are radical times, and radical times often require radical solutions,â€? said Pollof. “The alternative is to simply let the species do what it will and assimilate with the indigenous population. I for one don’t think we can aord to let this happen. The consequences are too dire to even think about.â€?

APRIL FOOL!!!!

A swift cure

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In 1729 Jonathan Swift (1667-1745) published his two-fold solution to the problems of Irish poverty and a shortage of meat among wealthy British.

Swift proposed poor Irish parents could eliminate their cost of feeding their children by selling them to wealthy British for food.

The title to Swift’s essay illustrates why he published it anonymously: A Modest Proposal For preventing the children of Poor People From being a Burthen to Their Parents or Country, and For making them BeneďŹ cial to the Publick.

Swift’s satirical cure for the pandemic of his time, the great disparity between the few rich and the many poor, is probably not a reasonable recipe for how America might encourage its youth to self-quarantine until COVID-19 is brought under control. However, other less dire approaches may be worth considering.

Jonathan Swift pointed out he could not proďŹ t from his idea as he had no young children to sell and his wife was past childbearing age. In like manner Peg and I are hardly aected by any

of the following suggested measures. We are in our seventies, we receive Social Security checks and we live in the middle of nowhere by ourselves. Our nearest beach is the mud around our pond and we have to share it with the cattle. Isolation for us is simply a fact of life. Be that as it may, I submit the eďŹƒcacy of these ideas should be evaluated on their own merit.

The general topic of discussion in America and the world today is how do we encourage people, especially our youth, to self-quarantine? I say especially the young because Spring Break type activities usually do not involve folks such as Peg and me.

And that leads us into my proposed solutions. Perhaps we should look to our own youthful memories to help us understand how we can encourage young people to do the right thing for all of us. And such altruistic behaviors by the young should be encouraged, not demanded. After all, we are Americans. None of us reacts well to someone else ordering us around. A spoonful of sugar is more likely than a threat to get any of us to do what’s best for all of us, at least for a short while.

So, let’s consider how anyone who is young can be encouraged to forego beach parties and similar group exercises. I remember one sure way to get me as a young person to not do something was to have an older person tell me it was for my M E T B news@poseycountynews.com

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sports@poseycountynews.com

O M S D Ph. 812-682-3950 • PO Box 397 • New Harmony, IN 47631 Fx. 812-682-3944 • www.PoseyCountyNews.com

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own good. Maybe ďŹ rst we could have all parents encourage their children to congregate on the beaches so they could get more Vitamin D to help them ďŹ ght o the virus.

Another sure turno was for an old person to tell me how he or she used to do something and how well they did it. We could station kiosks with six foot perimeters on the beaches where old people would loudly and continually regale anyone within earshot of the old person’s one-time youthful exploits.

Of course, the surest way to have younger people not engage in a certain behavior is to have older people oer to engage in such behaviors with the young themselves. So we could have old men and women threaten to ood the beaches, while maintaining six foot intervals, and attempt to cavort with the young as much as arthritis will allow. To complete the program of negative reinforcement we could have the old people wear thongs and fake gold chains and drink prune juice instead of alcohol. You know, something similar to a 1960’s Love-In but without the love or the pot. That should assure young people will voluntarily abandon the beaches and the crowds for the thirty to sixty days we need to atten the COVID-19 curve.

For more Gavel Gamut articles go to www.jamesmredwine. com or “Like� us on Facebook at JPegRanchBooks&Knitting.

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MARCH 31, 2020

Warren Edward Montgomery Warren Edward Montgomery, 88, of Wadesville, Indiana, passed away Friday, March 27, 2020, at his home.

Warren was born in Wadesville, Indiana on July 31, 1931, to the late James Aquilla and Marticha (Lashbrook) Montgomery.

He honorably served in the United States Army. Being a Korean War Veteran, Warren was able to participate in Honor Flight Southern Indiana 6. He was a general contractor and owner of Montgomery Excavating.

He built the first modular home park in the state with Country Homes Inc. Warren enjoyed traveling.

Warren is survived by his wife of nearly 65 years, Margaret (Remfry) Montgomery of Wadesville, Ind.; daughters, Laura M. Montgomery Sandin PhD (Karl MD) of Wheaton, Ill., Cheryl Ray (Kris) of Wadesville, Ind., and Peggy Sue Cooper of Griffin, Ind.; son, Warren Keith Montgomery (Tammy) of Evansville, Ind.; brother, Robert Montgomery; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and one great-great grand-

son.

Warren was preceded in death by his parents; brother, James B. Montgomery; and son-in-law, William Cooper.

Warren’s funeral will be streamed live beginning at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 3, 2020. Please visit www. browningfuneral.com and click on “Live Stream” for access. Burial will follow at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Wadesville.

Memorial contributions may be made to Honor Flight Southern Indiana, PO Box 8234, Evansville, IN 47716.

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

THE POSEY COUNTY NEWS - PAGE A3

Robert Philip Jourdan Robert Philip Jourdan, 86, of Mount Vernon, Ind., passed away on March 26, 2020 at Deaconess Midtown. He was born September 2, 1933 in Posey County, Ind., to the late George and Emma (Schroeder) Jourdan.

Bob was a 1951 graduate of Mount Vernon High School. He was a U.S. Army veteran. Bob worked as an operator at Farm Bureau Refinery for 37 years, retiring in 1994. He loved farming and spending time with his family and grandchildren.

Bob enjoyed woodworking and gardening. He was an avid IU basketball fan. Bob truly enjoyed taking part in the Honor Flight in May of 2018.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Pauline (Denning) Jourdan; siblings, Orville Jourdan, Vernita Knee and Ruby Jourdan.

He is survived by his children, Donna (Rick) Carrico, Dennis (Kathy) Jourdan, Debbie (Jim) Powers and Diane (John) Claybon; grandchildren, Amanda (Jason) Tekoppel, Emily Carrico, Kaitlyn (Brendan) Kassel, Lori (Josh) Lyke, Kent (Sarah) Jourdan, Kelsey (Lincoln) Oliver, Ryan Pow-

Frances Juanita Slygh

ers, Erin, Sarah and Anna Claybon; great-grandchildren, Holly, Henry and Harvey Tekoppel, Kylar Kassel, Paige and Chloe Lyke; numerous nieces and nephews.

Private funeral service and burial will be held due to the current health crisis.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

The family would like to extend special thanks to the Midtown ER and ICU 2900 doctors and staff for their care and concern.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Saint Matthew Catholic Church, 421 Mulberry Street, Mount Vernon, IN 47620.

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

Beatrice M. Higgs Beatrice M. (Hogan) Higgs, 72, of Mount Vernon passed peacefully away with loving family by her side at Linda White Hospice on March 27, 2020. Bea was born on May 24, 1947 the daughter of Shirley and Hazel (Breeden) Hogan. Bea was married to Gary Higgs and he preceded her in death in 1994.

Bea was a kind and compassionate person who took great pride in being there for her family. She was everything that you think of when you hear the word “Mom.” As her daughters and grandchildren were growing up, she was always ready to take them on a magical journey using her wonderful imagination. She loved spending time with them just being her fun loving self.

Her love didn’t stop with her daughters and grandchildren. She was “Aunt Bea Bea” to many of their cousins and friends, often taking them in and teaching them lessons about love and kindness.

Bea was a very religious woman with a love for God that ran deep and true. As her health declined, she was unable to attend services but steadfastly read her Bible every day. At her bedside, she reassured her daughters to not worry because she knew where she was going.

She was so full of love and light that she lived with the belief that everyone was equal and beautiful because they were all Gods children.

She enjoyed writing and drawing. She spent

Nancy E. Jarvis

hours crocheting and making quilts for her family.

An adventurer at heart, she enjoyed taking trips, especially if live music was involved.

She is survived by her daughters, Becky Cambron, Bernice Jones, and Mary Higgs; grandchildren, Ashley Cauley and Nicholas Cambron; great grandchildren, Travis, Julia, Savannah; sisters, Deloris Kinchleloe, Pearlene (Dennis) Curry, and Mae Hogan. She is also survived by many neices, nephews, great neices and nephews, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and her brother, Paul Hogan.

Due to current events a graveside service will be held on Tuesday, March 31, 2020, 10 a.m. at Beech Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials may be left to the Stendeback Family Funeral Home in Mount Vernon, Ind., PO Box 667, to help defray funeral expenses. Online condolences may be left at stendebackfamilyfuneralhome.com

OUT OF RESPECT TO FAMILIES THAT HAVE LOST LOVED ONES, OUR OBITUARIES ARE RUN IN THEIR ENTIRETY,

Nancy E. (Harrison) Jarvis, 63, of Henderson, Ky., passed away Friday, March 27, 2020, at Lucy Smith King Care Center.

Nancy was born in Evansville, Ind., on July 29, 1956, to the late Floyd and Dorothy (Boyd) Harrison. She met her husband of 48 years, Donald, in the first grade. Nancy enjoyed traveling and playing the slot machines. Most importantly, she loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Nancy had a heart of gold and always put others needs before herself.

Nancy is survived by her husband, Donald Jarvis; daughters, Tracy Powell and Crystal Campbell (Michael) all of Henderson, Ky.; brothers, Floyd Wayne Harrison (Colleen) of Illinois, Vernon Harrison (Donna) of Poseyville, Ind., Robert Harrison (Barbara) of Evansville, Ind., and Jeff Harrison (Deb) of Colorado; grandchildren, Megan and

Wade Powell, McKenzie and Adrinenne Jarvis; greatgranddaughter, Magnolia; friend, Holly Attebury; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Nancy’s funeral will be streamed live beginning at noon on Thursday, April 2, with Pastor Steve Clayton officiating. Please visit www.browningfuneral.com and click on “Live Stream” for access. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.

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

Frances Juanita (Brandenstein) Slygh, 101, of Mount Vernon, Ind., passed away on March 26, 2020 at her home. She was born December 15, 1918 in Posey County, Ind., to the late John and Ovella (Dunlap) Brandenstein.

Juanita was a graduate of New Harmony High School.

She enjoyed crossword puzzles, watching game shows and sitting on the porch.

Juanita loved when family and friends stopped by to visit.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George Slygh; children, Carol Hardin, Margaret Cooper, David Case and Robert Melton.

She is survived by her children, Earl Slygh, Larry (Carol) Case, Peggy (Mike) Watson; grandchildren, Jason (Jaclynn) Pace, Nick “Gameday” Burton, Mike Watson, Kelly Watson, Gretchen Taylor; great-

grandchildren, Remi and Reed.

Private funeral service and burial will be held due to the current health crisis.

The family will hold a public memorial service at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Posey County Young Life, P.O. Box 951, Mount Vernon, IN 47620 Condolences may be made online at www.schneiderfuneralhome.com

Peggy A. Herron Peggy A. Herron, age 82, of Mount Vernon, Ind., passed peacefully after a long battle with Alzheimer’s on Saturday, March 28, 2020, at her home.

Peggy was born July 21, 1937, in Fayetteville, Tn., to Lemuel H. George and Mildred George (Pitts). She received Master Degrees in English and Music from Murray State. Peggy retired in 1990 after teaching English for 23 years at Mount Vernon High School. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church for over 23 years and she was instrumental in founding the gardening around the Mount Vernon courthouse. She enjoyed volunteering her time at the library.

Peggy is survived by her husband, William Jerry Herron; son, Troy Herron (Linda Reuber); daughter, Mary Ann Henderson; brother, Tom George and many nieces and nephews.

Peggy is preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral Services and Burial will be private.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Paula Goodman and all the other caretakers for their special care.

Arrangements are being handled by Boone Funeral Home East Chapel – A Family Tradition Funeral Home, 5330 Washington Avenue, Evansville, IN. Condolences may be made to the family online at boonefuneralhome.net.

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n a daily basis, we have people call to ask about our services. We meet many new people with each family we serve. Service is what we believe is truly important and is what we have to offer families.

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PAGE A 4 - THE POSEY COUNTY NEWS D M

MARCH 31, 2020

Gone Too Soon Madeleine,

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B guessing that most of C P the folks under my age have never even heard of Vic Morrow, let alone the tragic accident he died in, which was in 1982.

Other people, older of course, might recall him starring in the popular television show, Combat. This was a 1960s ABC series, set in WWII. He was born on February 14, 1929 in the Bronx, New York to Russian Jewish immigrants. He left high school to join the U.S. Navy, using the GI Bill to study pre-law at Florida State. He took a role in the school play and realized his true love was acting.

After playing a street punk in Blackboard Jungle, he became Sgt. Chip Saunders and found fame playing the “heavy� in other roles.

While he was ďŹ lming Dirty Mary Crazy Larry (1974) in 1973, he insisted on having a one million dollar life insurance policy before he would shoot any scenes involving the helicopter he was due to ride in. He was very insistent, and when asked why, Morrow replied “I have always had a premonition I was going to die in a helicopter crash!â€?. As Morrow was waiting to ďŹ lm what would turn out to be the scene that killed him in Twilight Zone: The Movie (1983), he said to a production assistant, “I must be out of my mind to be doing this. I should’ve asked for a stunt double. What can they do but kill me, right?!â€?.

He was killed, along with two Vietnamese child actors, in a freak accident when a hovering helicopter crashed landed

on top of them, in which the top rotor blades decapitated realize that everyone I am watching is gone. My all-time Morrow and one of the children, and crushing to death the favorite movie, “Gone with the Wind,� is a good example. second one. For those of us who were adults at that time, it Olivia de Havilland is the exception; she is 103 years old. was horrible.

Her role as Melanie, plus 49 other feature ďŹ lms, makes her There are accidents, over-doses, and life truly amazing. other deaths daily, but the “gone too soonâ€?

Maureen O’Hara was another actress demises of celebrities seems to linger in who lived a long productive life, passour memories. There are way too many to ing away at age 95 in 2015, and is bureven list, but we recall Marilyn Monroe, ied in Arlington National Cemetery. She Whitney Houston, Amy Winehouse, James starred with John Wayne in several movDean, Freddie Mercury, Robin Williams, ies, and they were friends.

Paul Walker, Anna Nicole Smith, Heath Kirk Douglas just passed in February, Ledger, Michael Jackson, River Phoenix, at age 104. Bob Hope made it to 100, as John Ritter, Steve Irwin, John Lennon, did George Burns. Doris Day passed last Philip Seymour Homan, and many others. year at age 97.

Elvis Presley stands out in this group. I am Drug over-doses was the reason we sure I missed mentioning several. have lost so many current stars. That is Although it is never easy to give people such a shame, but it would appear that up, it seems easier when they have lived a fame sometimes demands more of peoVic Morrow long productive life, and the deaths were ple than they have to give. Suicides, car natural causes. crashes, and murder have also taken their toll.

I haven’t heard much of an update from Betty White lateOne of the reasons I began to write the predecessor to ly, but she is in her nineties. All of the other cast members this column was to leave information behind for you, Madof the Golden Girls are gone. I always think that those who eleine, as well as the others. were permanently preserved on ďŹ lm will always be availI so wish I had asked for more facts from those who are able to future generations. gone. So, when I talk incessantly, instead of being annoyed, No matter who, nor how famous, everyone has their days remember I won’t be here forever to do this. At least once a to live on this earth. What makes us grieve much more is week, it passes through my mind to want to ask my mother when it seems unfair and too soon. something. Believe me, it becomes more important as your I watch a lot of old shows and movies, and frequently own life progresses. I love you, mom.

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Birthdays New Harmony resident Donald Stone took advantage of last week’s warm weather to get out of the house and catch up on some lawn care. Photo

by David Pearce

March 31 - Aaron J. Trembczynski, Rodger Wilson, Matt Hines, Linda Biggs, David Childers, Paul Cameron April 1 - Kathy Curtis, Charles Price, David Rice, Ben Slagle, Emily Walsh, Rubert Schmitt April 2 - Michael Creek, Timothy Creek, Evelyn Miley, Naomi Williams, Harry Hottel III, Elizabeth Curtis, Brianna Cale Anderson, Christina Robison, Nathan Maudlin April 3 - Hank Hudson,

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Due to the Covid-19 precautions, Premier Healthcare of New Harmony is under strict visitor restrictions. However, where there’s a will there’s a way. Pictured here are Premier resident Betty Slygh talking to her son Kevin Slygh on the phone. He visits regularly and they visit through the window by phone to keep in touch. Photo submitted

Red Cross - facing severe blood shortage The American Red Cross now faces a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations in response to the coronavirus outbreak. Healthy individuals are needed now to donate to help patients counting on lifesaving blood.

Individuals can schedule an appointment to give blood with the Red Cross by visiting RedCrossBlood. org, using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, calling 1-800-RED-CROSS or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.

As the coronavirus pandemic has grown here in the U.S., blood drive cancellations have grown at an alarming rate. To date, nearly 2,700 Red Cross blood drives have been canceled across the country due to concerns about congregating at workplaces, college campuses and schools amidst the coronavirus outbreak. These cancellations have resulted in some 86,000 fewer blood

donations. More than 80 percent of the blood the Red Cross collects comes from drives held at locations of this type.

Here in the River Valley Blood Services Region, 79 blood drives have been canceled, resulting in 2189 units fewer blood donations. The Red Cross is adding appointment slots at donation centers and expanding capacity at many community blood drives across the country over the next few weeks to ensure ample opportunities for donors to give.

Volunteer donors are the only source of blood for those in need The Red Cross expects the number of cancellations to continue to increase, which is causing heightened concern for blood collection organizations and hospitals across the country. This blood shortage could impact patients who need surgery, victims of car accidents and other emergencies, or patients suering from cancer.

Blood donation process To donate blood, individuals need to bring a blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identiďŹ cation that are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.

High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements.

Donors can also save up to 15 minutes at the blood drive by completing a RapidPassÂŽ. With RapidPassÂŽ, donors complete the predonation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of donation, from a mobile device or computer.

To complete a RapidPassÂŽ, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Ben Nicholson, Cindy Lauf, Marc WhitďŹ eld, Cindy Betz, Lucy Lange, Anthony Mittino, Diana Rick, Abby Rogers, Landon Crawford April 4 - JoEllen Williams, Anna Hagedorn, Cindy Smotherman, Wilma Heriges, Roy Flock, Danielle Ries, Gary A. Schneider, Ashley WhitďŹ eld, Danielle Denning, Katie Hirsch April 5 - Carrie Proctor, Neil Smith, Therese Fitzhugh, Jennifer Slagle, Ian Kurzendoerfer, Marty Crispino, Scott Roales,

Loraine Eaton, Connie Wheeler, Kendra Georgesen, Doug Crowdus, David Jones April 6 - Samantha Alsop, Braden Schipp, Janet Robb, Millie Robb, Sue A. Maricle, Ashli Oglesby, Mary Jones, Grace York, Janet Hurst, Samantha Russler, Lou Cameron, Ora MaddixIf 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

National and Local News 100 Years Ago News From The Western Star, March 31, 1920 - Mount Vernon

Special Note: Topics in this issue include the new High School site, windstorm causes much damage, the Graham Valve Co., box social at Stewartsville, Paul McReynold’s post, and many briefs and personals.

Purchase High School Site - At a meeting of the city Board of Education held Tuesday night, a site was purchased for the new Senior High School building. While it will be several years before actual work on the construction will commence, the board deemed it advisable to purchase the ground at once. The site is located just southeast of the Central and Junior High School building, and includes several lots on the corner of Sixth and Canal Streets. Following the erection of the new building, the present Senior High at College Avenue and Fifth Streets will be converted into a graded school. The site purchased Tuesday night is known as the Holleman tract of ground, and the consideration was $2,250. In other action, teachers of the city will be granted an increase in salary, the same to take eect next year. Permission was granted pupils of the city schools to make a contribution of a penny or more to the France (French) Monument fund. The money will be used for the erection of a monument on the Marne BattleďŹ eld.

Windstorm Causes Much Damage Considerable damage was done in Mount Vernon and vicinity last Thursday when a strong southeastern gale struck here about 11 a.m., increasing in velocity during the afternoon and decreasing to some extent late into the night. Roofs were torn o, barns turned over in the rural districts, and boats in the local harbor badly damaged. The wind played havoc with telephone and electric light wires and for a time during the afternoon, the current from the light plant was shut o owing to a primary line being down. The ooded Ohio River presented a wild appearance, huge waves mounting several feet high being dashed against the shore continuously during the day. The side of the Flesher No. 1, a gasoline ferry boat, was blown in and it was only by hard work that the craft was saved. Two boats anchored at the foot of Locust Street owned by Frank Schenk and John Cowgill, and a houseboat owned by Union Holder, tied up at the same place, sank during the storm. Many barns were destroyed or damaged. Two ďŹ ne cows on the Thomas Conlin farm were killed. In the Mackey Bend and Greathouse Bottoms, hardly a building was left standing. At the Dr. Hasting farm two houses were blown over, and a house on Oscar Dixon’s farm and one on the John Spencer place were blown down.

The Graham Co. Is An Indiana Corporation - The Graham Valve Co., one of Mount Vernon’s future big factories have been issued letters of incorporation by the Secretary of State, and at a meeting of the directories and stockholders of Tuesday night in the oďŹƒce of Secretary Louis Wasem, the books and business of the old company were closed. The new company was then orga-

nized with John Moller as manager and John Hill as foreman of the plant.

Chamber Of Commerce On Tomato Acreage - At the Chamber of Commerce held Wednesday night reports from the various teams who have solicited for tomato acreage for the canning factory were heard.

Should the Chasber not be successful in securing the required number of acres, the plant of course will not be erected here. The Chamber is also studying the possibility of having a Big Circus come to Mount Vernon.

Big Box Social At Stewartsville - Paul Reynold’s Post, American Legion of Stewartsville, is going to be a “real life bunch.�

The Post is really in its infancy. The Box Social and Dance will be held April 9.

Overland Automobile Demonstration At Carnegie Library - Herbert Alldredge of Savah on Saturday afternoon will give a demonstration in this city at 3 p.m. Mr. Alldredge will ascend the steps of the Carnegie Library, testing the climbing qualities of the car. This is a feature, while never given in this city, has been given by Overland dealers elsewhere. Herman Lang is the Overland Agent in Mt. Vernon.

News Briefs And Personals - The ConďŹ rmation of the children was held at the Emanuel’s Church Sunday. A large crowd attended. Easter - An Easter program will be given at Prairie Church, Sunday. Related The Primary Departments of the First Methodist E, Church Sunday school will hold an Easter Egg Hunt on the lawn in the rear of the church Friday. Birth - Mr. and Mrs. Harvey David have a big girl named Wilma Lucinda. Travel And Visits - Mr. and Mrs. Fred Willman of Bufkin, visited Mr. and John Dempesmeier Sunday. Edward Strupp and family and Miss Fanny Lewis were the guests of Mr. and Mrs. W. Zuspann, Sunday. Mr. and Mrs. Butler of New Harmony, motored to Mount Vernon Monday. Thomas Shelton of Poseyville, was in the city Friday on legal business. Henry Deig was in the city Saturday and while here gave us a call. Fritz Schnack and daughter, Miss Marie, were in the city Saturday and while here gave us a pleasant call. Sick List - Monroe Harrison has been seriously ill at his home.

John Duckworth is seriously ill at his home.

Marriage Licenses - Addlie Hames and Nellie Milton; Arthur Esche and Ethel Allyn. Marriage - Miss Ethel Allyn, daughter of Mrs. Arizona Allyn and Arthur Esche, son of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Esche surprised their friends by being married last Wednesday afternoon. The couple drove to Caborn and were married by Rev. Schweitzer at the Methodist Parsonage. Friends gave the couple an old time charivari.

News Of Mount Vernon 125 Years Ago, March 31, 1895 The Electric lights were turned on at the Poor InďŹ rmary, Monday. Ice-Factory - Lee Wolf will start his ice factory today. Marriage Licenses - William Price and Harriett Shaw; Andrew Nessler and Florence GriďŹƒe; and John Cross and Mary Coontz.

MARCH 31, 2020

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THE POSEY COUNTY NEWS - PAGE A5

Residents seek child care options as His Light closes Poseyville resident Kraig Arnold took advantage of warm temperatures over the weekend to get out of the quarantine and mow and trim his yard. Arnold was not alone as spring brings more outdoor activities as people continue to practice social distancing amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Photo by Dave Pearce

New Harmony resident Jeanne Maudlin replaces plants she accepted with other plants she donated during the spring warm weather this week in New Harmony.

Maudlin indicated the idea of sharing flowers came from Robin Lewis and seems to be catching on well around town as residents pass the time by being creative during the COVID-19 pandemic. Photo by Dave Pearce

from work. Many parents are out of work.

Churches are having to hold services online, which means that funds normally received from congregations will likely go down. We simply could not afford to continue to pay our workers. We could not take state vouchers without compromising the faith message.”

Carter added that his greatest frustration is that area daycare is a vital service and it will no longer be available. He hopes that the community will recognize this need once the virus crisis is behind us.

“I would like our area to attract young families. This is a factor they consider when moving. In addition to serving Christ, having the daycare made Poseyville a more attractive area to live.”

The board would like to thank everyone who made the daycare possible during its run.

“We had a great outpouring of cooperation from our congregation and the community. We want to thank those who donated of their treasures, time, support and prayers. Volunteers even stopped by to love on the kids.”

Carter does not look upon the situation as a failed ministry, but rather a successful ministry that operated for a short period of time.

“We touched many families and showed the love of Christ to our church and our community.”

Bryan A. Ruder Stifel, Nicolaus & Company Financial Advisor

BMV announces closures, options Governor Eric J. Holcomb announces that beginning Tuesday, March 24 all state government offices will be closed to in-person public activity until at least April 7, 2020.

This closure includes all Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) branches.

On March 19, 2020, Governor Holcomb issued Executive Order 20-05 which in part waived Administrative Penalty Fees (late fees). Today, he further ordered an automatic extension of all state-issued licenses and stated he will advise law enforcement to refrain from issuing citations for a driver’s license or registration that expires during this emergency. Effectively, this extends expiration dates of registrations, driver’s licenses, and identification cards without changing the expiration date printed on documents in an individual’s possession and waives late fees during a future renewal.

Several out-of-branch options are still available, and Hoosiers are encouraged to complete transactions using the below ser-

By Lynda Baker In 2016 a group of young parents found themselves in dire need of daycare, after finding few options available in northern Posey County, southern Gibson County and northwest Vanderburgh County. They arranged a meeting with Pastor Huntsman, who was then the pastor of Saint Paul’s United Methodist Church in Poseyville.

Upon receiving the church’s blessing, Charles Carter traveled to Indianapolis and filed the paperwork with the State of Indiana. In December of 2017, the doors of His Light Ministries Daycare opened in Poseyville.

The daycare provided care for an average of 30 children per day, provided by an average of 13 workers.

It wasn’t long before the daycare began to have staff issues. Carter indicated that many applicants felt that driving to Poseyville to work was simply too far.

Some of the workers also took jobs as substitute teachers for the school system. He said that he could certainly not fault the workers for their choices, but it was definitely a strain upon the daycare.

Last week the daycare’s board of directors made the decision to close its doors, mostly due to financial issues.

“We tried very hard to keep our rates low, while trying to pay our workers well,” Carter said. “Now, with COVID-19 spreading, at least one parent is staying home

vices whenever possible. These services include: • Online transactions through in.gov/BMV • Contact Center • Mail-in renewal Additional information regarding out-ofbranch services and branch closures can be found on the BMV’s COVID-19 Information and Updates webpage.

If you hold a Commercial Driver’s License, there are resources available on the BMV website including information from FMCSA. In addition, CDL holders are encouraged to reach out to the Contact Center with questions. The phone number is 888692-6841 and the lines are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The BMV website is updated regularly.

You can read a full list of transactions available through in.gov/BMV online services, as well as resources on frequently asked questions and current business operations: https:// www.in.gov/bmv/4363.htm

Financial Impacts of Divorce A divorce can not only be devastating to your family, it can also breed financial stress for many years to come. Here are some items to consider when going through or thinking about a divorce.

Consider your obligations - If children are involved, their well-being should be your primary obligation. Divorce can be extremely difficult on children, as it forces them to spend less time with their parents, causes confusion, and is disruptive to their normal routine. A good rule of thumb is to stay positive and be honest with your children. Put their needs ahead of your own and do your best to be cordial with your partner or ex-partner.

Legal fees - Attorney fees can add up quickly and vary depending on the area in which you live, the complexity of the divorce, and the length of the trial.

Continued litigation due to the inability to come to an agreement can end up costing thousands of dollars.

Other fees - Other fees that may result from divorce

include court costs, moving costs, and counselling or parent education costs. If real estate is involved, selling, refinancing, appraising, or record deed fees are likely to occur.

Divorce mediation - Mediation and collaboration can save divorcing couples a lot of money. It can speed up the divorce process and reduce the amount of time lawyers spend on the case.

In a collaborative divorce, the lawyers attempt to solve the marital issues without going through a trial.

Division of property and rights - Deciding who gets what is one of the most difficult aspects of a divorce.

Who gets to keep the house?

Who gets custody of the children? How will assets be divided? Besides dividing assets, many divorces involve debt that needs to be divided as well. Depending on whether you live in a community property state, your assets may or may not be split evenly. The court will take many things into consideration when deciding how to divide assets and debts.

Financial aftermath - In many cases, divorce comes

with a legal obligation to pay court-mandated child support or alimony. Unless the adults involved can come up with an agreement, child-support and/or alimony are generally decided by the court and are granted to the less-advantaged spouse.

Child support or alimony can be difficult financially for the one paying and lifesaving for the one receiving.

While thinking about or going through a divorce, it is important to identify what you would consider acceptable losses. It may be necessary to liquidate some, if not all, of your retirement accounts, you may disagree with the custody rights for your children, and you may never be as financially stable as you were before a divorce. It is never easy, but taking these considerations into account may help you deal with the many burdens that come with a divorce.

Article provided by Bryan A. Ruder, a Financial Advisor with Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated, Member SIPC and New York Stock Exchange, who can be contacted in the Evansville office at (812) 475-9353 or (855) 62-RUDER.

Email news to: news@poseycountynews.com

Sermon of the Week: Eleven Ways To Be Joyful During This Crisis We’ve not experienced anything quite like the present Coronavirus. It threatens our financial security and tests our spiritual maturity. There are no church services, no March Madness, no school activities, or large get-togethers. We’re staying home most of the time, battling boredom, anxiety, and depression.

The Bible says, “Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thess. 5:16-18). That’s not an easy assignment these days! The following are some suggestions I hope will assist Christ-followers to be joyful despite present circumstances.

1. Face the worst possible scenario. Some suggest the cure for worry is to put negative thoughts out of your mind. That’s almost impossible. I find it more helpful to face the worst possible consequences, and then realize that with God’s help, I can cope with them. Jesus said, “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

The truth is you may get the Coronavirus. But your chances of recovery are excellent. Plus, you’ve been sick before and survived. The absolute worst-case scenario is you or someone you love could die from the virus. It’s dangerous. The possibility of that happening is much less than if you came to America on the Mayflower, or crossed the plains in a covered wagon, or fought in World War II or lived during the polio epidemic. Our forefathers endured far more menacing times than this.

But face reality. Death comes to all, and with God’s help, we will deal with it when the time comes. Yet refuse to let that inevitability rob you of the joy of living today. “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24 KJV).

2. Reaffirm your faith. When you get anxious, ask yourself a simple question, “Do I believe what I say I believe?” Do I really believe Jesus’ death on the cross forgives my sin, and His resurrection proves I will live forever with Him? Do I really believe His promise that He will never leave me nor forsake me?”

If you haven’t believed those Biblical truths, this is the time to repent and believe the gospel. By now, the Lord should have your attention. If you do believe those truths, this is the time to act like it. Repeat His promise every day: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13 NKJV).

Pray every day, “Lord, help me to remember that nothing is going to happen to me today that you and I can’t handle together.”

3. Take advantage of the opportunity to slow down...and rest. Most of us live at a hectic pace. We’ve been too busy and too uptight. An old Indian proverb reads, “You will break the bow if you keep it always bent.” That’s why the Bible encourages us to “Wait on the Lord” and to observe a Sabbath day.

Jesus’ ministry lasted just 3 1⁄2 years. Yet he spent the first six weeks alone in the wilderness patiently preparing for His task.

4. Avoid complaining like the plague. Little children on a long trip whine and complain. “I’m bored!”

“He keeps sticking his foot on my side.” “How much longer?” Their constant griping gets on their parents’ nerves. The Bible instructs us to “Do everything without complaining and arguing.” (Philippians 2:14 NLT). Our constant whining must exasperate our Heavenly Father.

We all wish things were normal, but they’re not. Deal with it like a mature believer. Complaining doesn’t make you or anyone else feel any better. It only carves your unhappiness deeper into your soul. Keep your distance from complaints... and complainers. They are toxic.

5. Focus on the positive and count your blessings The Apostle Paul wrote, “...if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- think about such things” (Philippians 4:8).

Every time you catch yourself complaining, stop and list five things you’re thankful for. Do you have a comfortable house to live in? Enough food to eat? People who love you?

Eyesight capable of reading? A car capable of getting you to the drugstore? Access to the internet? A church that has an online service? A Savior who died for you? A Bible to read?

If so, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).

6. Limit news-watching to fifteen minutes a day Some of the unnecessary, exaggerated panic is due to media-hype. Today’s newsrooms are primarily concerned about ratings. Ratings are improved with melodrama and exaggerations. So, turn off cable news and stop the endless scrolling through internet news feeds. Thirty years ago, we got by with fifteen minutes of news a day. That’s enough. Turn it off.

7. Do at least one thing productive each day. Psychologists tell us a major contributing factor to depression is a feeling of uselessness. If we have no purpose, no sense of accomplishment, it’s easy to fall victim to despair. That’s true. If I do nothing all day, I feel like a giant slug. King Solomon advised us to find satisfaction in work (Ecclesiastes 2:24).

8. Do something to encourage someone else. You’re not the only one struggling with boredom or depression. Take some food to your elderly neighbors or text a word of encouragement to friends on your call list. Find ways to connect with and uplift others while practicing safe, social distancing methods.

9. Intentionally laugh out loud several times each day. I’m a big believer in the value of laughter, even if it’s a little bit

forced on occasion. Proverbs 17:22 says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine....” There is something healing about laughter.

10. Be alert to your influence on your children. The Bible instructs us to teach God’s commandments to our children, “... when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up” (Deuteronomy 11:19).

Your children and grandchildren have their antennas up, watching to see whether you respond to the current crises with fear or faith. They are going to remember this period for the rest of their lives. Don’t miss the chance to impact them with your calm assurance that “all things work together for good to those who love God” (Romans 8:28 NKJV).

11. Remember, this trial is temporary. Hopefully, within a few weeks, we will return to normalcy. It may take much longer to recover, but I doubt it will take as long as the Great Depression, which lasted over a decade. My grandparents survived the Great Depression and then four years of the horrors and uncertainty of World War II. Now we refer to them as “The Greatest Generation.”

Over 100 times, the Bible says, “And it came to pass.”

The current crisis is temporary. In the meantime, let’s allow adversity to bring out the best in us. There may be no better testimony for Christ in tough times than a genuinely cheerful Christian. So, “Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thess. 5:16-18).

May His peace & grace be with you, Pastor Jamie

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PAGE A6 - THE POSEY COUNTY NEWS

Enforcing Governors Executive Order

Briefly NH Legion offer Fish Friday tako-out Due to the pandemic we are all experiencing right now, the New Harmony American Legion Post 370 cannot be operating on our normal schedule. However, we are going to continue our Fish Friday’s. We will be open from 12-8 p.m. each Friday with our special.. ďŹ sh w/2 sides/hushpuppies.... cole slaw, baked beans, macaroni salad, potato salad, fries/ tots for $8. We will also have our Full Menu available.

Call-In/Carry-Out/Curb-Side Only. 812-682-3873. Thanks to our Governor, we also have carryout beer. Thank you so much for your patronage, and hopefully we can get back to normal soon.

NH Kiwanis Scholarship now available for North Posey seniors and graduates A New Harmony Kiwanis scholarship is now available for North Posey seniors and graduates. This scholarship is a one time award of $500. The scholarship is awarded based on your record of community service. For North Posey seniors and North Posey graduates interested in applying: contact New Harmony Kiwanis scholarship chair Dan Busler at d.busler@sbcglobal.net for an application. Completed application must be received before May 1, 2020.

SWIN Chamber, PC Office, now accepting annual business awards nominations Nominations for the 2020 Posey County Business Awards are now open thru April 17, 2020. Visit https://swinchamber. com/posey-county-alliance to nominate candidates for: Posey County Business of the Year; Posey County Business Person of the Year; Posey County Young Professional of the Year; and Posey County Teacher/Administrator of the Year.

PC 4-H Fair seeks gate workers The Posey County 4-H fair is looking for groups or organizations to work gates the week of the fair. July 13 through 18, 2020. Contact Laurie Hartman 812-454-3753 for information.

This information is intended to clarify the role of the Posey County Sheriff’s Office in enforcing our Governor’s Executive Order (20-08) entitled “Directive for Hoosiers to Stay at Home.� While we respect the Governor’s order and encourage all citizens to comply, the Sheriff’s Office is not making random stops of citizens who are not otherwise in evident violation of the law. To be clear, however, violating the Executive Order is a criminal offense and is classified as a Class B misdemeanor (I.C. 10-14-3-34).

Our office has received multiple calls from citizens encouraging more vigorous enforcement. Clearly, there are those who for selfish or careless reasons conclude the Governor’s Order does not apply to them. This is wrong, no question about it.

There are, of course, multiple exceptions for individuals whose businesses or professions have been classified as “essential� and therefore exempt from the Order.

My message for our community is this: However upset you may be to observe a fellow citizen violate the Order, the demands on our office are too great currently to round up violators. We don’t have room in our jail, in any event. Law enforcement currently is focused on preserving the safest possible environment for the citizens of Posey County. We are conscious that a time of confusion and challenge may be viewed as

an opportunity by those who commit crimes. We stay focused on the detection and removal of that threat, and not so much on those who choose to risk their health (and the health of others) by ignoring our Governor’s directive. Any law enforcement agency with limited resources must choose how best to deploy those assets—and I think we make a reasonable choice. The best available enforcer of the Governor’s Order is the individual conscience of someone who considers whether to violate it.

We respectfully request that our 911 and dispatch lines stay clear for legitimate emergency calls. I do share the public disgust for those who feel entitled to make their own rules during this time of personal and community peril. I remain hopeful that all citizens will adhere to the Executive Order, the CDC guidelines, and all medical advice that will help us overcome the pandemic with minimum impact and loss of life. This is a period about which history will record judgments someday— just as history has judged our forebears for their response to threats and crises of all kinds. I sincerely hope that history and all of us will look back on this as a time when we put our families and communities ahead of personal interests and met any hardship with strength, patience, and faith.

The Sheriff’s Office is your partner in striving for those objectives.

Lane restrictions planned for SR 69 near MV The Indiana Department of Transportation announces moving lane restrictions for a paving project on State Road 69 near Mount Vernon.

Beginning on Monday, March 30 contractors will restrict one lane of S.R 69 between the S.R. 69 bypass and Maple Hill Road for asphalt resurfacing. Operations will be mobile based on the location in which work is taking place each day. Work will take place during the

daytime hours from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. controlled by agging operations.

Depending upon weather conditions, the project is expected to last until the end of April. INDOT urges drivers to slow down and stay alert near crews.

Stay Informed Motorists in Southwest Indiana can monitor road closures, road conditions, and traďŹƒc alerts any time via: Facebook: facebook.com/

INDOTVincennesDistrict Twitter: @INDOTSouthwest CARS 511: indot.carspro-

gram.org Mobile App: iTunes App Store and the Google Play store for Android

Correction: In the Commissioners story that ran in the March 24, 2020 issue, it was mistakenly reported that Randy Thornburg made the following statement: “Commissioner Randy Thornburg brought up the issue that a very young person was hired at the county garage and he does not approve of it. Anticipating summer employment, a motion was passed that no one under the age of 18 may be hired by the county.� It should have stated, “Commissioner Jay Price...� We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.

Steve Harding - Edward Jones Financial Advisor Edward Jones: Support for community is a top priority In today’s challenging times, Edward Jones ďŹ nancial advisors are thinking about the health of their clients, their families and their colleagues, what’s happening in their communities and the eect of Covid-19 on the markets. “Most importantly, we want everyone to know we’re taking steps to protect the health and well-being of our clients, associates, families and communities,â€? Steve Harding says. “We’re right here in the community with you, going through this together as neighbors and friends. And we will get through this together.â€?

To help reduce the impact of the coronavirus, ďŹ nancial advisors are taking several steps, including suspending face-to-face visits with clients, holding virtual meetings and training sessions and ensuring oďŹƒce spaces are sanitized and disinfected. “Like everyone, we really have to do our part to help mitigate this crisis,â€? Harding says. “But since our entire reason for being in business is to help our clients enjoy more rewarding lives, we feel that our eorts now are just an extension of that.â€?

Of course, people’s ďŹ nancial situations also weigh on their minds, Harding says. “The current market sello is certainly concerning, but it seems to be driven more by fear and panic than by economic or ďŹ nancial reality,â€? Harding says.

Monetary and ďŹ scal policy are necessary, but at the end of the day, it will be the medical progress that will dictate the timeline for reducing market volatility and the ultimate rebound in stocks,

Harding says.

Harding said Edward Jones expects daily volatility to persist until new virus cases begin to slow, but added that investors should ďŹ nd optimism in these facts: prior to the epidemic, unemployment was near a 50-year low, with solid wage growth; there was an uptick in the housing market, which may accelerate due to declining mortgage rates; and the Federal Reserve has cut shortterm interest rates back near zero percent.

Furthermore, Harding says, the drop in investment prices may indicate that the ďŹ nancial markets have already “priced inâ€? the likelihood of a short-term recession. “This could mean that we’ve already endured much of the stock market pain,â€? Harding says. “And even a short recession is of concern to all of us, since it’s likely to bring at least a temporary disruption to an otherwise strong labor market.â€?

For investors wondering what to do now, Harding oers these suggestions: First, remember why you’re investing. “With the market decline, people will be tempted to change their investment strategies,â€? Harding says. “But they need to keep in mind that most of their ďŹ nancial goals, such as a comfortable retirement, are long-term in nature - a lot longer-term than the shelf life of the coronavirus. If investors have established a longterm strategy that’s appropriate for their needs, they should stick with it, no matter what today’s headlines are.â€?

However, Harding does suggest that individuals who are par-

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ticularly concerned over the current results of their investment statements might want to evaluate their risk tolerance. “If you are truly losing sleep over what’s going on in the markets, it’s possible your portfolio is positioned too aggressively for the amount of risk with which you’re comfortable,â€? Harding says. “In that case, you should work with your ďŹ nancial advisor to see if you need to adjust your investment mix to include more ďŹ xed-income securities, which can provide some downside protection, but you’ll be making a trade-o, because you’ll also be aecting your long-term growth potential.â€?

Finally, Harding says, now might actually be a good time for investors to consider actually adding to their portfolios. “Right now, many stocks are at their best values in more than a decade,� Hardingsays. “If you need to rebalance your portfolio, this could be a time to do so.�

Ultimately, Harding says, investors need to realize that, while we are in somewhat uncharted times, the temptation to panic should be fought. “All our emotions are running high right now,â€? Harding says. “And while everyone’s top priority should be to protect themselves, their families and their communities, it’s still important not to lose sight of their ďŹ nancial well-being. And for that, the best thing all of us can do is look past short-term downturns and maintain the discipline to keep investing in all types of markets.â€?

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

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THE POSEY COUNTY NEWS - PAGE A7

MARCH 31, 2020

Former mission worker to serve three years for ‘failing to register’ Special to the News A Mount Vernon man will serve prison time for failing to abide by the laws required of sex offenders.

On the afternoon of Wednesday, March 25, Gerald D. Hatfield appeared in the Posey Circuit Court where he was sentenced by Judge Craig Goedde to three (3) years in prison after pleading guilty to Unlawful Employment Near Children by a Sexual Predator, a Level 5 Felony.

As part of his guilty plea, Hatfield, age 73, admitted to

Gerald D. Hatfield working at At the Cross Mission, which was located on

school property in Mount Vernon. Hatfield further admitted that he has a prior conviction for Failure to Register as a Sex or Violent Offender from 2015.

On October 23, 2019, Posey County Sherriff’s Office Detective Justin Rutledge responded to Hedges Central Community Center in Mount Vernon regarding a sex offender on school property.

Hedges Central Community Center is owned by the Metropolitan School District of Mount Vernon. Detective

‘Work from home’ continued from Page A1 Town Marshal Charles Carter reminded everyone that he will still be conducting golf cart inspections.

Council Member Michael Baehl requested that town residents remember to clean up after their dogs. This has apparently become an issue, particularly on Fletchall Street.

The town-wide yard sale,

normally set for the Saturday before Mother’s Day in May, has been postponed. Councilmembers will check with area Boy Scouts, monitor the situation, and make a determination at a later time as to whether town clean-up day will take place at its regular time in May. The Council recessed the meeting and will give 48

hours advanced notice of all meetings, as they did for last week’s meeting. Anyone wishing to address the Council will be provided with a questionnaire to complete and will appear before the Council one at a time for social distancing purposes. The Council may also be going live on either Facebook or Zoom for its meetings during this time.

Rutledge and Posey County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Kyle Reidford located Hatfield on the property.

According to police records, Hatfield admitted to working at At the Cross Mission, which was located within Hedges Central Community Center. Hatfield further admitted that he did not have any personal identification on him, which is required of sex offenders under Indiana law. Hatfield was arrested and transported to the Posey County Jail.

Posey County Prosecutor Thomas Clowers commented, “Mr. Hatfield is a sexual predator and an offender against children, and he has a history of failing to abide by Indiana’s sex offender registration requirements. As a community, we simply will not tolerate convicted sex offenders intentionally disregarding the laws that are in place to help protect our community and our children.”

“I’m grateful to the MSD of Mount Vernon officials and the Posey County Sheriff’s

Office for taking the necessary actions to remove Mr. Hatfield from school property.

Not only was this school property, there are multiple agencies located within Hedges Central Community Center that provide services to many children in our community.

Thankfully, Mr. Hatfield will now be removed from our community altogether for a period of time.”

Hatfield will soon be transported to the Indiana Department of Correction to serve his sentence.

Postponed Honor Flight date set The postponed EVV12 Honor Flight is now officially confirmed for August 22, 2020. The group will plan on this date unless the country is still dealing with the Covid-19. Those Veterans and Guardians that were scheduled for the May 2 flight, will be contacted to confirm their spot. If they select to not fly at this time, they will be moved to a future flight date.

With schools out, there is concern that general from schools will be greatly affected. Operation Mail Call is such a critical part of each

Honor Flight. Families, individuals and students can still write letters, thank you cards and/or color pictures while they are out. They can mail their thank you’s now to: Honor Flight - Mail Call, PO Box 8234, Evansville, IN 47716.

There will be drop boxes out in July and August at the Evansville Vanderburgh Public libraries, Mission BBQ on Green River Road, Red Cross Building and Golden Corral on Evansville Eastside. Our fall flight, EVV13, is still scheduled for October 3, 2020.

‘Main Street’ continued from Page A1 demolition of the structures should be completed by January 2021. If the city does not receive the grant, elected officials said they will find the money locally to do it as soon as possible.

Marchand carried a tape recorder around the audience to record public comment for the grant application, stating it is a very important part of the grant process.

Ed Adams, President of the Mount Vernon Redevelopment Commission, stated he is in favor of this application and his group would be willing to submit a letter of support. He said his group identified these three properties years ago and placed them on a ‘hit list.’ He added that the RDC would be willing to use some of their monies to help with the city’s local match.

Dan Baldwin spoke into the microphone stating the buildings are an eyesore and they are dangerous with falling bricks.

He noted this area is located on a major fault line, and if there were to be an earthquake, the structure would fall into Main Street. Councilman Andy Hoehn agreed that the building is a huge safety concern on the New Madrid fault line. “There are between 6,000 and 7,000 cars a day that travel Main Street and things falling off the building could cause severe accidents or injury. This is a risk management situation,” he remarked.

Jenna Richardt and Larry Williams offered letters of support as active community leaders. Adam Brothers agreed the eyesore buildings need to come down. His concern is the grant timeline calls for demolition a year down the road. He wondered if the building would still be around in a year or fall apart even more.

Mount Vernon Fire Chief Wes Dixon recorded a story into the microphone that happened about three years ago. His department received a call of an obstruction in the roadway on Main Street. It was actually an eight foot metal piece of the cast iron fascia from the building. Since the fire station is nearby, he can see day to day how it continues to fall and is in horrible condition.

City Attorney Beth Higgins stated she is a business owner on Main Street and has invested in her own building, as have other business owners through the RDC façade improvement program. Councilwoman Baldwin expressed her concerns with safety and wondered if there was any way to push the grant through faster on the timeline. She would also like to see the alley behind the building closed off for safety reasons. Councilwoman Jillian Brothers said she, too, has safety concerns as there is a playground a block away and people gather on Main Street for parades Curtis was recorded saying he has spent 12 years in city government, and these buildings have been a major concern since that time. It is usually the first issue folks bring up to him. The city has tried to mitigate the situation by placing Lexan in the windows to help keep them from falling out.

Marchand commented that some things just can’t speed up the timeline. The building is on the National Historic Register and they have to work with the State Historical Preservation Office as well as other agencies now. For anyone who would like to comment and was unable to make the meeting that evening, letters are always welcome. They can be submitted to the City Hall by May 15.

In other council action: • Dixon brought a proposal to the council with estimates on adding personnel as requested at the last meeting. The department currently has two people on duty at all times who are organized into three separate teams, working 24 hour shifts.

The remainder of the department roster is made up of paid on call members who receive a stipend based on level of activity. The Chief proposes to add three more fulltime firefighters.

This means an extra man per shift, or three fulltime on engine company. He added if the Mount Vernon Fire Department was located in Evansville, they would be the third or fourth busiest out of their 17 stations.

“Is low staff a safety concern?” asked Hoehn. Dixon replied it could be and it would be wonderful to have more on a truck.

Hoehn asked if the additional staff would include EMT’s. Dixon replied it is important they be EMT’s and he would prefer they be accredited at Ivy Tech, as he was.

Hoehn asked about attrition rates. Dixon replied they have a very low turnover rate, but they do have six who will be ready to retire in six to seven years, including himself. Dixon told council members about a FEMA federal program called SAFER (Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response) that will pay 75 percent salaries for the first two years and 35 percent for the next year of a grant. Unfortunately, the application process ends tomorrow and it is too late. “What are you planning to do tonight?” Hoehn joked.

Baldwin observed council needs to keep the grant information in front of them for next year, especially with Dixon and the others retiring in the near future.

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• The ordinance establishing the Non-Cash Taxable Benefit of a city-owned vehicle used for commuting passed on second reading, suspended rules, and then passed on third reading as 20.4.

• A second reading of the ordinance to amend the City of Mount Vernon Code concerning the residency of members of the Police and Fire Departments passed on second reading by a 4-1 vote, with Baldwin voting no as she has concerns about adding all nearby counties. Baldwin stated she still feels that a 20 mile radius is sufficient.

• Jenna Richardt introduced Mount Vernon High School student Amber Allyn who is working with another student Emma Yarber and Richardt on the construction of murals around town. They currently have enough funds raised for the first mural, about $10,000, to be placed on the wall of the Rosen-

baum building. Council members received the news with appreciation of their efforts.

• Baldwin brought up two topics she noticed on Facebook.

People are suggesting a Mount Vernon Clean Up Day, disgusted with all the litter around. She was wondering about sponsoring one to get the community involved and she and Brothers formed a committee to make it happen. Councilman Rusty Levings opined that a community clean up would be a great way to gather people, meet people, and instill pride in the community Baldwin also said a grandmother with little ones posted about having no swings in Mount Vernon suitable for younger ages. Brothers agreed that she has problems finding swings for her children. Curtis promised to contact Parks Director Michael Harshbarger to get the situation remedied.

‘Axton’ continued from Page A1 first served two years as an officer in Daviess County, near Washington, and then two years as an officer in Gibson County.

Anticipating jurisdiction opening up on the Ohio River, the state created two more positions in Posey County in 1983 and Axton transferred to his home stomping grounds. He served as a field officer in the county for 33 years, enforcing all state hunting and fishing laws, as well as having full police power to enforce any other Indiana laws. Conservation officers are the oldest state law enforcement agency, being created in 1911.

Formerly called ‘game wardens,’ they were given full police powers in the 1970’s, too.

In the last eight years of his career, Officer Axton served as a Field Supervisor for two years and then finished up as a paperpushin’ Sergeant in District 7 for the ten counties in southwestern Indiana.

During all that time, he has seen triumph and tragedy in action and dealt with people in all sorts of situations. He has taught children outdoor ethics and skills, enjoyed wildlife and fishing encounters, taught diving and fast water safety to fellow law enforcement personnel, and assisted in Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Harvey relief efforts.

Just this past fall, he helped recover the body of a Bald Eagle that died and noticed it had a tag on it. From tagging records, he found out that it was one of two eaglets he helped a wildlife biologist take out of a nest at Hovey Lake twenty one years ago to tag. He helped remove a River Otter that drowned in a fisherman’s net that was tagged in the late 1990’s. He learned it was one of the original specimens reintroduced into the state from Louisiana in a DNR program. Interestingly, the animal was released about 300 miles upstream on the Wabash River and had traveled that far south before meeting his demise in the net.

Another interesting encounter came when he received a call from a concerned citizen who found two deer with interlocked antlers from fighting. One of the duo was dead, but the other survived. With care, the dead one’s antler was sawed off, freeing the other one to run away to continue to live his fortunate life.

Officer Axton met all kinds of people along the way while enforcing outdoor laws. Some are in thrall of the beauty of nature and some are belligerent from too many brewskis or being caught poaching. Some fall out of tree stands, some don’t wear safety apparel on ATV’s, and some don’t wear life jackets boating on local waterways. Some drive through high water or don’t make it fishing on the bank or from a boat. As a trained DNR diver for the past twenty years, Axton considers himself fortunate in helping families find their loved ones who met up with accidents. He enjoyed teaching first responders and officers from many agencies how to do fast moving water rescues.

Looking back on his career, a main point of pride is also the success of the Hunter Safety Program in Posey County. Officer Axton taught his first series of classes at his alma mater, North Posey School in 1984. He expanded the program to New Harmony, Mount Vernon, and Saint Wendel Schools in 1985. “At last count, we’ve certified over 14,000 kids in Hunter Safety which actually also includes outdoor skills, water safety and

ORV safety,” he proudly stated.

The retiree would like to work as a volunteer teaching these skills again in the future. Right now though, during this outbreak of coronavirus, he is helping his daughter Jennifer in Paducah, Kentucky with the care and online education needs of his five year old grandson. Paul and his wife, Lori, also have a son, Alex, who attends Murray State University.

To say goodbye to their commander, coworkers honored Paul with a plaque featuring his off duty clock and the three badges he wore as he moved up through the ranks of duty. He was presented another gift of a Savage 308 bolt action deer rifle. A company in Jasper is engraving the conservation officer badge and his years of service on the stock.

The special gifts are a fitting tribute to a man who gave his all to his job. He smiles when he recounts the story of a man who, in frustration at being caught again, asked, “Do you work all the time? Whenever I’m out, you always show up where I’m at.”

Paul Axton was honored upon his retirement as Indiana’s longest working conservation officer with over 40 years service with a special Savage 308 bolt action deer rifle with a stock engraved with his badge and years of service. Photo submitted

PAGE A8 - THE POSEY COUNTY NEWS

S /B

MARCH 31, 2020

Mount Vernon offers Grab & Go lunches

By Amber Allyn Starting Monday, March 30, the MSD of Mount Vernon will offer Grab and Go Lunches Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. to anyone the age of 18 and under while schools are closed.

These meals will be offered at the circle drive at Mount Vernon High School, door 2 at Marrs Elementary School, and the circle drive at West Elementary School. The child does not have to be registered in that school or even the district, but they must be present to receive a meal. While many surrounding districts already provide meals, the Mount Vernon administrators had to turn in applications and talk to the state food service program to begin the program.

Since the MSD of Mount Vernon has not previously had a summer food program, the school had to apply to begin a program. The Evansville-Vanderburgh School Corporation already has a summer feeding program, but the students must consume the food in the building. With the current pandemic, students must not all congregate together. Luckily, the state became more flexible when the pandemic shifted, and they quickly approved the new Grab and Go Lunch program, so the schools can just hand them the meal rather than the children eating it there.

Charlotte Johnson is in charge of getting the program up and running at Mount Vernon. She must prepare the menus for the grab and go lunches. Cold meals will be served three days of the week, and hot meals will be prepared the other two days. Breakfast for the next day will not be served with these meals, but it is a possibility for the future. Certified and trained cafeteria staff will be preparing the food, and the other employees have been asked to volunteer when and where the need arises.

The lunches are funded through the school service account. After the meals are served, the district will submit requests back to the state in order to be reimbursed.

The schools will receive money back for

the labor and supplies used. The money from the state has been channeled through the USDA to be given to the schools’ feeding programs.

Because the program is federally funded, there are strict rules that the school district must abide by, such as: the food not being able to be handed out in places other than schools and Farmersville Elementary School not being allowed to be used as a location to hand out meals. They each would need to have funding from an outside source to support residents of that area. There is a lot of red tape to go through to serve meals at these locations.

Farmersville is not in a geographic area to serve those in need, because it is outside of a site with high poverty. If the school district provided meals at Farmersville, they must track whether the kids are on free and reduced lunch or not. There is currently a location on the east and west side of town and also a central location, so the majority of kids in need will be reached.

The MSD of Mount Vernon is ecstatic to be able to provide a meal to children each day when school is not in session. Loren Evans stated, “We are grateful to the community partners who have been filling the need that the school was not able to fill yet.” The district hopes to make the meal program as convenient as possible and will adjust as needed. They are aware that the local churches have served a little over 200 people each day, but the schools will not be serving the exact same group and must adjust to fit the need.

To receive a meal, go to Mount Vernon High School, Marrs Elementary School, or West Elementary School Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The parent of the child will need to pull up through the designated location, and the student can grab the meal. There will be someone there to make sure people are not congregating to prevent the spread of the virus. All children 18 and under are eligible to be served.

Friday afternoon was the perfect time to enjoy a meal outside on the patio of Black Lodge Coffee Roasters in New Harmony. Pictured l to r are: Jason Beal, Alex Gale (Owner of Black Lodge), Chelsie Walker, Stephanie Walker (holding Andy). Photo by Theresa Bratcher

New Harmony resident Hollie Craig work in the yard of her Main Street home on the first warm spring day of the year. Area residents were looking for reasons to be outside this weekend as the COVID-19 pandemic has many people quarantined in their home for the immediate future, at least through the month of April. Photo

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Hoosier Art Salon cancels workshops, University of Evansville Reschedules involvement in First Brush of Spring Spring Commencement Ceremony

After much discussion and input from students, faculty, and staff, the University of Evansville is rescheduling its Spring Commencement ceremony to take place during Homecoming weekend on the morning of September 19, 2020, at the Ford Center.

“This semester has taken an unanticipated turn for all of us, and the University of Evansville recognizes the importance of celebrating the educational achievements of our Class of 2020,” said UE president Christopher M. Pietruszkiewicz. “Each one of our students has had a lifechanging experience at UE - whether studying at home or abroad, through hours of classroom and out-of-classroom experiences, our students have made lifelong connections. We want to celebrate those moments, in person, at a rescheduled Commencement ceremony.”

This does not affect the timing or award of UE degrees. More details for graduates and graduation attendees will be determined in the upcoming months.

The Hoosier Art Salon has canceled its involvement in the First Brush of Spring, scheduled for Wednesday, April 15, through Saturday, April 18. Also canceled are all workshops scheduled from Monday, April 13, through Thursday, April 23. The New Harmony Gallery will also be closed until further notice.

It has become clear that we must cancel. With events surrounding COVID-19 developing rapidly along with the obvious need for urgent steps to contain its spread, we simply could not move forward with the Paint Out as scheduled.

The impact of this cancellation on the community that makes the First Brush of Spring possible - the artists, the attendees, the volunteers, and the New Harmony community with all of its businesses and workers - cannot be overstated. We share the collective disappointment but look forward to welcoming everyone back to the First Brush of Spring, April 2021.

These are difficult times. We urge you to stay healthy and do whatever you can to help one another and to make this a better world.

Please take the time to focus on family, friends, and your own health in these times.

On My Way Pre-K applications are now available Rose-Hulman’s ‘Ask Rose’ Indiana’s Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning is now accepting applications from families in any Indiana county who may be eligible for grants for their children to receive high-quality, prekindergarten education through the On My Way PreK program for the 2020-2021 school year. The program, which started as a five-county pilot and then expanded to 20 counties in 2017, became statewide in 2019. Information about the program and the link to apply can be found at OnMyWayPreK.org.

In addition, OECOSL is introducing a new, easier-touse online application called “Early Ed Connect,” which families will use to apply for both On My Way Pre-K and child care assistance provided in Indiana via the federal Child Care Development Fund or “CCDF.” Early Ed Connect offers the benefits of: Easy use via mobile devices, as well as on a computer or tablet Ability to apply for multiple children in one application

Ability to upload supporting documents, including via photo from a mobile phone Ability to save application progress and complete it at a later time Notification of successful submission Spanish version is available There is also assistance available for any issues related to the online application at http://EarlyEdConnectSupport.org.

For the 2020-2021 school year, a child is eligible for an On My Way Pre-K voucher if they live in any Indiana county, will be four years old by Aug. 1, 2020, and plan to start kindergarten in the 2021-2022 school year. An eligible child must live in a household with income below 127 percent of the federal poverty level, and have parents or guardians who are working, going to school or attending job training.

There will also be a limited number of vouchers available for a child who will be four years old by Aug. 1, 2020, lives in a household with income up to 185 percent of the

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federal poverty level and has: A parent/guardian who is working, attending job training or an educational program OR A parent/guardian who receives Social Security Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income benefits On My Way Pre-K awards grants to four-year-old children from low-income families so that they may have access to a high-quality pre-K program the year before they begin kindergarten. Families who receive a grant may use the grant at any approved On My Way Pre-K program throughout the state.

Once the family has met eligibility requirements and has been awarded a grant for their child, they may choose from any of the eligible, enrolled On My Way Pre-K programs. Families can search approved providers at www.

ChildCareFinder.IN.gov.

Approved pre-K programs may be located in a public or private school, licensed child care center, licensed home or registered ministry as long as that program meets the quality requirements and is

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registered as an On My Way Pre-K Provider. Families may choose from a program that is full-day or part-day, as well as from programs that end with the school year or continue through the summer. Families who need help finding an approved pre-K program can also call 800-299-1627 for assistance from an early learning referral specialist.

More than 11,500 Hoosier children have attended preschool through a grant from the On My Way Pre-K program since it began in 2015.

OECOSL continues to partner with Purdue University on a longitudinal study of children who have participated in the program in an attempt to measure their success. OECOSL also updates the Indiana General Assembly every year on the program. The most recent report can be found here.

The Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning is a division of the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration.

Families may call 800-2991627 for assistance from an early learning referral specialist or for other questions about On My Way Pre-K.

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology’s AskRose math and science tutoring helpline has extended its daytime hours Thursday and Friday, March 19-20, to help homebound middle and high school students better understand math and science homework problems from their virtual or online classes during the current coronavirus public health crisis that has led to many schools moving to an e-learning environment.

Free homework help is available from noon to 3 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time) through a phone call, email or chat session. Services also are available during normal service times: Sunday through Thursday from 7-10 p.m.

Connections can be made at 877-ASK-ROSE (877275-7673) or the AskRose website, AskRose.org. The

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AskRose tutors may be available to help students in grades six through 12 on weekdays throughout the rest of the school year, depending upon tutor availability, according to AskRose Director Susan Smith Roads. Rose-Hulman students are also doing remote learning but are able to continue offering this service from their individual locations throughout the country.

“We’re currently reviewing our student tutors’ daytime online class availability to see if our AskRose services can be made available from noon to 3 p.m. after Friday, March 20,” Smith says. “We’re also looking into extending our outreach to upper elementary school students, fourth and fifth grade, with math and science questions. We want to help students affected by these challenging times continue learning essential math and science skills.”

Rather than give students answers, AskRose tutors guide students through their homework problems to help them better understand math and science concepts. Student privacy is always protected, and students are never asked for their last name or telephone number.

The service, certified by the National Tutoring Association, has conducted approximately 700,000 tutoring sessions since starting in 1991.

All AskRose services are available at no cost to students or parents through a Lilly Endowment Inc. grant and financial assistance from Rose-Hulman.

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SINCE 1882 Successor to The Poseyville News & New Harmony Times POSEY COUNTY’S ONLY LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED NEWSPAPER

Tuesday, March 31, 2020

Volume 140 Edition 13

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Ricketts named to 15-member all-state basketball team

By Chris Morlan The Indiana Basketball Coaches Association (IBCA) released its all-state selections for the 2019-2020 season. Fifteen seniors and 15 underclass players earned IBCA/ Subway “Supreme 15� allstate honors. Players who make the Supreme 15 are not considered for Large School or Small School honors.

North Posey senior Josiah Ricketts was selected to the Small School All-State Team (Class 2A/1A) by the Indiana Basketball Coaches Association last Thursday afternoon.

Ricketts was one of 15 basketball players named to the allstate team. This is a well-deserved honor given to Ricketts for his hard work and dedication to the game of basketball.

Ricketts finished his basketball career at North Posey as one of the best, if not the

Josiah Ricketts best to ever put on a Vikings jersey. He was named to the Pocket Athletic Conference first team all four years of his high school career. Last season, Ricketts led the Vikings in scoring with 24.1 points per game. At the end of last season, Ricketts became the fiftyfifth player in Indiana High

School boys’ basketball history to surpass the 2,000-point mark in their high school career. Ricketts finished his high school career tied for thirty-eighth place with 2,078 points. Some popular names that Ricketts passed on this elite scoring list were George McGinnis (Indianapolis Washington), Trey Lyles (Indianapolis Arsenal Technical), Eric Montross (Park Tudor/Lawrence North), Greg Oden (Lawrence North), Jay Edwards (Marion), Yogi Ferrell (Park Tudor), Oscar Robertson (Indianapolis Attucks), Parrish Casebier (South Spencer), Luke Recker (DeKalb), Colt Ryan (Batesville) and Scott Skiles (Plymouth).

Midway through his senior season in a game at Mount Vernon, Ricketts passed Brian Cardin (New Harmony-1986) as Posey County’s all-time

scoring leader. A few games before the postseason, Ricketts became the Pocket Athletic Conference all-time scoring leader when he passed Adam Seitz (Pike Central-1998). On February 16, at Evansville Memorial, Ricketts broke the single season record for threepoint field goals made. During his junior year, Ricketts became North Posey’s all-time leading scorer.

Other local players from the area selected to the all-state teams were Kiyron Powell (Evansville Bosse). Powell was selected to the “Supreme 15� senior list. Last fall, Powell signed to play college basketball at the University of Houston for coach Kelvin Sampson. During the season, Powell nearly averaged a triple-double with 14.6 points per game, 12.4 rebounds per game and 7.9 blocks a game.

Evansville Reitz junior Khristian Lander and Heritage Hills junior Blake Sisley were named to the “Supreme 15� underclass group. Lander recently signed to play basketball with Indiana University and was the leading scorer in the Southern Indiana Athletic Conference at 21 points per game. Sisley averaged 19.4 points and 7.6 rebounds per game for the Patriots.

The following players were named to the Large School (Class 3A-4A) senior AllState team: Murray Becher (Heritage Hills), Grant Niehaus (Washington) and Simon Scherry (Heritage Hills).

Joining Ricketts on the Small School (Class 1A-2A) senior All-State team were Reece Bauer (Northeast Dubois) and Keegan O’Neill (Barr-Reeve).

Honorable mentions senior all-state selections were:

Ty’Ran Funches (Evansville Bosse), Jackson Hiester (Evansville Mater Dei), Jackson Kabrick (Jasper), Tyler Phelps (Evansville Mater Dei), Kolten Sanford (Evansville Bosse), Isaac Uebelhor (Forest Park) and Brock Wilsey (Evansville Day School).

The following players named to the Underclass Small School All-State team were Brycen Graber (BarrReeve), Hagen Knepp (BarrReeve) and Colson Montgomery (Southridge).

Honorable mention for the underclass all-state selections: Jurrien Ballard (Princeton), Cameron Banks (Heritage Hills), Owen Dease (Evansville Reitz), Michael Donoho (South Spencer), Jace Kelly (South Spencer), Tyler Myers (Evansville Day School), Julian Norris (Evansville Bosse) and Isaiah Swope (Castle).

Recap of the events one year ago in Posey County sports

By Chris Morlan Harris’ one hit, 15 strikeout outing beats Rebels 7-1 On Monday, April 1, 2019, the Vikings baseball team played the South Spencer Rebels. This was the Vikings second home game of the season. North Posey came into this game on a three-game winning streak and they are undefeated for the season. The Vikings extended their winning streak to four game with a 7-1 victory. During last years’ sectional championship game, the Vikings beat South Spencer to claim their first sectional title since 2006. North Posey won that game 3-1.

North Posey scored their first run of the game in the first inning to take an early 1-0 lead. The Vikings scored three more runs in the second inning to take a 4-0 lead. South Spencer scored one run in the fourth inning to make the score 4-1. In the bottom of the fourth inning, North Posey scored two more runs to lead 6-1.

During the bottom of the fifth inning, North Posey scored their final run of the game to get the win. The Vikings went to the plate 29 times with nine hits and left six players on base.

Senior Shane Harris started on the mound for the Vikings and provided a great performance.

Harris pitched five and two-thirds innings, allowed one hit, one run, two walks and struck out fifteen batters on 94 pitches. Owen Spears came into the game during the sixth inning and pitched one-third of an inning. Spears had six pitches and struck out the one batter he faced in the game. Hunter Alkire closed out the game in the seventh inning. Alkire did not allow any hits, no runs, one walk and two strikeouts on 19 pitches thrown.

Gaige Kihn went two for three at the plate with a double and a run scored. Shane Harris went two for three hitting with a run batted-in.

Camden Bender went one for four hitting with a double and a run scored. Kyle LaVanchy had two-runs batted-in and two stolen bases. Owen Spears went one for one hitting. Chase Christie went one for four at the plate. Jarret Motz scored one run. Reid Smith had one run batted-in. Jayden Wehmer went one for two hitting with a double, two runs scored and a walk.

Dalton Cox went one for three at the plate and scored two runs.

Wildcats beat Carmi on the road 6-1 The Mount Vernon baseball team played at Carmi, Illinois on Thursday, April 4. Mount Vernon played a solid game and defeated Carmi 6-1. For the game, the Wildcats had six hits.

Hunter Wiltshire was awarded the win for the Wildcats. Wiltshire threw four innings, allowing only two hits, one run scored, five strikeouts and one walk. Tyler Walls pitched the final three innings of the game and did not allow any runs along with two strikeouts and two walks.

Bronson Quinzer went two for three at the plate with a run scored and three stolen bases.

Mitchell went two for three hitting with a run

scored and a stolen base. Kayden Hamilton went one for four with a run batted in, a run scored and a stolen base. Luke Harris went one for three hitting with a stolen base. Breckan Austin scored a run and had one run batted in.

Hunter Wiltshire had two walks and a stolen base. Logan Crawford scored a run and walked twice, and Hunter Phillips scored a run.

Lady Vikings beat Tell City 11-5 The Lady Vikings softball team was back in action at home on Friday, April 6, 2019 against Tell City. North Posey played a great all-around game and beat Tell City 11-5. For the season, North Posey improved their record to two wins and three losses. During this game, North Posey scored a run in every inning except the third inning.

Emily Abernathy went two for two at the plate with three runs scored, one run batted-in and two stolen bases. Haley Lowe went two for three hitting with a run scored and one walk.

Kennedy Hallam went two for four at the plate with a double, two runs batted-in, two runs scored and one stolen base. Julia Fullop went two for three hitting with two runs batted-in, a run scored, one walk and one stolen base.

Sophia Martin went two for three hitting with two runs scored and a stolen base. Jenna Heath went one for five at the plate with a triple, two runs batted-in and a run scored. Megan Brenton went one for four hitting and drove in one run.

Paige Patterson went one for two hitting with a run scored and Rylee Farr had one run batted-in for the game.

On the pitcher’s mound, Megan Brenton pitched a complete game and got the win for the Lady Vikings. Brenton pitched seven innings, allowed eight hits, five runs, five walks and struck out seven batters on 134 pitches.

Lady Cats win home opener with a 11-0 shutout The Mount Vernon Lady Wildcats played their first home game of the season on Wednesday, April 3, 2019 against the Evansville North Lady Huskies. Mount Vernon shutout North for a 11-0 victory. Brooklyn Gibbs was the winning pitcher for Mount Vernon. Gibbs threw a one-hitter and struck-out nine batters.

Jaycie Tucker went three for four at the plate with a double and four runs batted in. Paige Robinson went two for three hitting with a double and Megan Ghrist had two runs batted in for the Lady Wildcats.

Viking boys and girls track team face tough competition at Southridge

By Chris Morlan The North Posey boys and girls track teams competed at Southridge on Thursday, April 4, 2019. This was a triangular meet against the Southridge Raiders and Princeton Tigers. In the girls meet, Southridge dominated by scoring 105 team points. Princeton finished second with 32 points and North Posey came in third

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place with 27 points. Princeton won the boys meet with 87 points, followed by Southridge in second place with 62 points and North Posey finished with 16 points.

Freshman Lyndsey Gentil won the high jump with the winning height of four feet and eight inches. Gentil was the only Viking athlete to win an event at this meet. Senior Madison Cates finished second in the 100-meter hurdles with a time of 17.51 seconds. Cates also placed fourth in the 100-meter dash with a time of 13.79 seconds. Destiney Nottingham placed fourth in the 100-meter hurdles in a time of 19.31 seconds. Taylor Freeman placed second in the 300-meter hurdles with a time of 52.07 seconds. Freeman also placed third in the long jump with a leap of fourteen feet, eleven and one-half inches.

Emma Goebel finished fourth in the 1600-meter run. Audrey Hirsch placed second in the 3200-meter run. Lauren Zirkelbach finished fourth in the 400-meter run with a time of 1:07.89. Kennedy Devine placed fourth in the 200-meter dash in a time of 28.53 seconds.

Belle Gries placed fourth in the high jump. The Lady Viking 4 x 800-meter relay team of Emma Goebel, Lauren Zirkelbach, Taylor Freeman and Audrey Hirsch placed second with a time of 11:35.14. North Posey’s 4 x 100-meter relay team of Madison Cates, Lyndsey Gentil, Kennedy Devine and Taylor Freeman finished second with a time of 56.11 seconds.

Sophomore Austin Danhauer placed second in the 400-meter dash with a time of 55.43 seconds. Danhauer also finished third in the high jump at a height of six feet. Hunter Harvey placed third in the 110-meter high hurdles in a time of 17.51 seconds. Kedrick Wahl finished fourth in the 110-meter high hurdles with a time of 19.31 seconds. Wahl also finished third in the 300-meter hurdles in a time of 47.14 seconds.

Zach Siebert placed third in the 100-meter dash in a time of 11.80 seconds. Seibert also finished fourth in the 200-meter dash with a time of 24.76 seconds. Clayton Lutz finished fourth in the 100-meter dash in a time of 12.04 seconds. Riley Basham placed fourth in the 800-meter run in a time of 2:32.04. Fridtjof Gaber placed fourth in the 3200-meter run in a time of 12:38.

Wildcat girls finish second and boys place third at Harrison track meet The Mount Vernon boys and girls track teams competed in a triangular meet at Evansville Harrison on Wednesday, April 3, 2019. In the girls meet, Mount Vernon placed second with 60 points. Evansville Mater Dei won the meet with 84 points and Evansville Harrison came in third place with 21 points.

The following won their race or event at this meet. Emma Thompson won the 1600-meter run and 3200-meter run. Mount Vernon’s 4x100 meter relay team of Ellie Bush, Savannah Weatherford, Arianna Wilkerson and Courtney Bourne won this race. Libby Steinhart won the 400-meter dash and the long jump.

Emma Weilbrenner won the shot put.

During the boys meet, Mount Vernon finished third with 42 points. Evansville Mater Dei won the meet with 71 points and Evansville Harrison placed second with 52 points.

The Wildcat 3200-meter relay team of Braden Dike, Tommy Kelley, Danner Latshaw and River Snodgrass won this race. Zach Batteiger JUST ASK US, WE MIGHT HAVE IT.

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won the 300-meter hurdles.

The following individuals placed second at this meet. Zach Batteiger in the 110-meter hurdles, River Snodgrass in the 1600-meter run, Tommy Kelley in the 3200-meter run, the 1600-meter relay team of Abram Adams, Theron Browning, Danner Latshaw and River Sndograss, Asa Spindler in shot put and Sam Thomas in long jump.

North Posey golf wins season opener in a tie with Pike Central The North Posey boys golf team had their season opener last Thursday afternoon at Cambridge Golf Course in Evansville. This was a triangular match between the Vikings, Pike Central and Gibson Southern. North Posey and Pike Central tied to win the meet with 179 points each. Gibson Southern placed third with 190 points in some close competition.

Viking Senior Caleb Wassmer won the overall meet individually to shoot a 37. Camron Cotton and Jacob Lingafelter tied for sixth place and both shot a 46. Jaxon Bender finished twelfth and shot a 50. Logan Hoehn placed fourteenth and shot a 51. Caleb Dyson placed seventeenth and shot a 55.

North Posey traveled to Vincennes last Saturday and participated at the Vincennes Invitational. The Vincennes Invitational was played at the Country Course of Old Vincennes Golf Course. There were fifteen local schools competing in the tournament. The Vikings placed tenth as a team in this close competition.

Thirteenth ranked Evansville Memorial won the tournament and shot a 295 as a team.

Evansville Mater Dei finished second with 301, South Knox placed third with 302, Washington in fourth place with 316, Pike Central finished fifth with 328, Evansville Central in sixth place with 338, Washington Catholic and Gibson Southern tied for seventh place with 355 points each. Southridge placed ninth with 356 points, North Posey finished tenth with 358, Barr Reeve and Mount Vernon tied for eleventh place with 363 points each. Vincennes Lincoln finished thirteenth with 376, Princeton in fourteenth place with 421 and Boonville in fifteenth place with 442.

Caleb Wassmer led the Vikings and shot a 74 for the tournament. Jacob Lingafelter shot a 92, Jaxson Bender shot a 95, Logan Hoehn shot a 97 and Chase Dyson shot a 99.

North Posey girls’ tennis lose season opener against South Spencer The North Posey girls’ tennis team played their season opener at home last Tuesday against the South Spencer Lady Rebels. In the five varsity matches, the Lady Vikings started off strong then lost the final three matches.

South Spencer beat North Posey 3-2.

In the One Singles match, Nina Tewort defeated South Spencer’s Lydia Chord in two sets 6-3 and 6-0. During the Two Singles match, Sydni Flowers beat South Spencer’s Mercedes Ahlbrecht in two sets 6-0 and 6-4. North Posey’s Macee Long went the distance in the Three Singles match against South Spencer’s Baylee Kirchgessner. Long won the first set 7-5, then lost the final two sets 2-6 and 0-6.

Mallory Motz and Lauren Koester lost to South Spencer’s Morgan Toler and Allie Rutherford in the One Doubles match. Motz and Koester lost in two sets 3-6 and 0-6. During the Two Doubles match, Rachel Newman and Addie Lingafelter lost to South Spencer’s Maddy Brown and Jacy Jarboe in three sets 3-6, 6-1 and 1-6.

Mount Vernon girls’ tennis beats Evansville Harrison 5-0 The Mount Vernon girls’ tennis team played at Evansville Harrison on Wednesday, April 3, 2019. Mount Vernon showed up and swept Harrison by the score of 5-0.

In the One Singles match, Morgan Woods won her match in two sets 6-0 and 6-2. Bryley Harms won the Two Singles match in three sets by the scores of 6-1, 4-6 and 6-2. During the Three Singles match, Carlota Romero-Campos’ won her two matches 6-3 and 7-5.

Leah Bilskie and Maggie Collins won the One Doubles match in two sets 7-6 and 6-1.

Maggie Jones and Drew Scates easily won the Two Doubles match in two sets by the scores of 6-0 and 6-1.

PAGE A10 - THE POSEY COUNTY NEWS

MARCH 31, 2020

On this day in Sports history...a compilation by Chris Morlan Due to no live sports being played around the world. I’m sure many people are bored watching NCAA basketball games from the past on television. It’s not fun watching a game when you already know the outcome. ESPN2 televised ESPN Ocho all day last Sunday. If you watched any of the events on the Ocho. You are probably burnt out watching the marble races. Hopefully, this rough time we are facing will be behind us soon. During the week of March 31 through April 6, there were some unforgettable moments and events that have happened in the history of sports. Some of you may remember these games or stories from the past. Some of you may not and this could be a good history lesson.

March 31- In 1973, Muhammad Ali suffered a broken jaw in a 12-round loss by decision against Ken Norton. Ali won the rematch between the two fighters later, in another controversial split decision. (1975)- UCLA defeats Kentucky 92-85 in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship. This was the Bruins tenth title under coach John Wooden, who announced his retirement two days later. (1987)- The Indiana Hoosiers won the NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship on a Keith Smart gamewinning shot in the final seconds. Indiana beat Syracuse 74-73 in one of the most exciting games ever played. (1994)- The Chicago White Sox assigned former NBA superstar Michael Jordan to the Birmingham Barons of the Class AA Southern League.

Jordan returned to the NBA the following year. (2002)- Connecticut wins the NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship against Oklahoma 82-70. The Lady Huskies conclude with a perfect season with a 39-0 record.

April 1- In 1963, the New York Mets purchase Duke Snider from the Dodgers for $40,000. (1970)- Federal Bankruptcy Referee Sidney Volinn declares Major League Baseball’s Seattle Pilots bankrupt. Car dealer Bud Selig buys the franchise for $10.8 million and moves the club to Milwaukee (Brewers).

(1985)- Villanova beats Georgetown 84-75 to become the lowest seed (8) to ever win a NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship.

(1990)- CBS fires sportscaster Brent Musburger.

April 2- In 1931, a 17-year old girl, Jackie Mitchell strikes out New York Yankee stars Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig in an exhibition baseball game at Engel Stadium in Chattanooga, Tennessee. (1976)- Oakland Athletics trade two key members from their recent World Series Championship team. The Athletics sent outfielder Reggie Jackson and pitcher Ken Holtzman to the Baltimore Orioles in exchange for outfielder Don Baylor along with pitchers Mike Torrez and Paul Mitchell. (1984)Georgetown beat Houston 84-75 in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship. Hoyas center Patrick Ewing was named the tournament Most Valuable Player. John Thompson was the first African American head coach to lead his team to any NCAA Division I title. (1986)- The NCAA Basketball Rules Committee votes to adopt the 3-point shot beginning the 1986-87 season with the college distance set at 19 feet, 9 inches compared to 21-feet in the NBA. (2010)- Basketball superstar Kobe Bryant signs a three-year contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers worth $87 million.

April 3- In 1989, Michigan beat Seton Hall 80-79 in overtime of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship game. This was the Wolverines first ever basketball title. Small forward Glen Rice was named tournament Most Valuable Player. (1991)- Bo Jackson signs a one-year contract with the Chicago White Sox. (1992)- The first ever exhibition game played at Camden Field, Baltimore, Maryland. Orioles beat the New York Mets. (2007)Tennessee beats Rutgers 59-46 in the NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship. This was the Lady Volunteers seventh national title. Candace Parker is named Most Outstanding Player.

April 4- In 1974, Hank Aaron ties Babe Ruth’s home-run record by hitting his 714th. (1983)- North Carolina State beats

Houston 54-52 in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship.

The Wolfpack won the game off a buzzer-beater dunk by Lorenzo Charles off a desperation 30-foot shot from Dereck Whittenburg. (1986)- Wayne Gretzky sets the National Hockey League record with his 213th point of the season. (1989)- New York Yankee Tommy John ties record for playing 26 seasons. On that day, John won his 287th game which put him 19th overall with the most wins. The Yankees beat the Twins on opening day 4-2.

April 5- In 1934, baseball superstar Babe Ruth agrees to do three 15-minute broadcasts a week on NBC for a fee of $39,000 for the 13 weeks. This was $4,000 more than his New York Yankee playing contract. (1967)- Philadelphia 76er Wilt Chamberlain sets NBA record of 41 rebounds in a game. (1972)- The regular Major League Baseball season fails to open season due to a player strike for the first time in history and 86 games are lost before the labor dispute was settled. (1975)- American number one tennis player Chris Evert won her third WTA Tour Championship at the Los Angeles Sports Arena beating Martina Navratilova in straight sets 6-4 and 6-2. (1984)- Kareem AbdulJabbar breaks Wilt Chamberlain’s all-time career scoring record.

(2005)- The Washington Nationals lose their inaugural season opener 8-4 to the Philadelphia Phillies. This is the first team to represent the nation’s capital since the Washington Senators left after the 1971 season.

April 6- In 1958, Arnold Palmer wins the first of his four Masters’ titles. Palmer was one stroke ahead of Doug Ford and Fred Hawkins at the Masters. This was also Palmer’s first of his seven major titles. (1977)- The Kingdome opened for the Seattle Mariners first game. The Mariners lost to the Angels 7-0. (1979)Baltimore Oriole manager Earl Weaver won his thousandth game as a skipper with a 5-3 win over the Chicago White Sox. (1980)- Gordie Howe completes a record twenty-sixth season in the National Hockey League.

Court News and Legal Advertising Continued Arrests March 12 Kelly Thiel - Evansville Warrant, Dealing in Methamphetamine (petition to revoke) - PCS March 13 Abraham Lopez - Mexico - Driving Without a License, Operating While Intoxicated - MVPD Courtney Almon - Mount Vernon - Trespassing - PCS March 14 Frederick Bishop - Indianapolis - Battery on a Pubic Officer, Resisting Law Enforcement, Obstruction of Traffic - PCS March 17 Ryan Gomez - Mount Vernon - Domestic Battery in the Presence of a Child, Intimidation - MVPD Emily Meredith - Evansville - Warrant, Possession of Marijuana (petition to revoke) - PCS March 18 Calvin Quertermous Mount Vernon - Operating While Intoxicated, Breath Test Refusal - MVPD Scott Heyna - Evansville - Public Nudity, Public Indecency - PCS Michael Steckler - Evansville - Possession of Methamphetamine, Public Indecency, Maintaining a Common Nuisance - PCS Ryan Reynolds - Mount Vernon - Warrant, Operating a Motor Vehicle after Forfeiture of License for Life, Auto Theft, Theft - PCS Emily Meredith - Evansville - Warrant, Possession of Marijuana (petition to revoke) - PCS Joseph Gardner - Evansville - Warrant, Operating While Intoxicated (failure to appear) - PCS Complaints March 8 12:55 p.m. - Harassment-Caller advised he is being harassed by other juveniles.

Advised they are accusing him of stealing. While on the telephone he advised he was going to slap the (***) out of them if they didn’t leave him alone - Main Street, Mount Vernon 2:58 p.m. - Extra Patrol Advised male subject is doing meth deals on Pearl Street.

Advised the property is a pole barn - Pearl Street, Mount Vernon 3:19 p.m. - Theft - Advised that he needs a bike lock because his bike got stolen - College Avenue, Mount Vernon 4:42 p.m. - Vandalism Advised 2007 Dodge Caliber had two damaged valve stems.

Caller advised this happened a few days ago. Advised she drove to Henderson where the tires then went flat - Vine Street, Mount Vernon 5:09 p.m. - Harassment Male subject is banging on the door, will not leave. Drives silver F150. Caller advised he was at the front door. Caller advised that she dated him up until two days ago. Caller advised that male subject broke in several months ago but didn’t report it then - Coronado Drive, Mount Vernon 7:20 p.m. - Fight - Mother and son fighting, throwing things - Green Valley Drive, Mount Vernon March 9 8:41 a.m. - Harassment Caller advised she is being harassed by female subject College Avenue, Mount Ver-

non 10:29 a.m. - Breaking and Entering - Someone broke into home that caller is building. Took tools and hardware from inside - Boberg Road, Mount Vernon 10:56 a.m. - Welfare Check - White Jeep Cherokee with a male subject wearing a mask and slumped over in the seat - Fourth Street, Mount Vernon 12:02 p.m. - Message Caller is needing to get her belongings from a residence she was moved out of but advised her ex changed the locks - Hilltop Lane, Wadesville 1:12 p.m. - Citizen Dispute - No information - Cale Street, Poseyville 3:57 p.m. - Harassment Request to speak to an officer reference caller’s cousin following him and verbally harassing - Harriet Street, Mount Vernon 4:05 p.m. - Suspicious - Advised there was a male subject, Second/Parke location, taking pictures, then tried to get into the terminal. Caller advised he was denied and took a photo of subject’s license plate Barter Street, Mount Vernon 9:35 p.m. - Breaking and Entering - Advised someone just tried to get into her house.

Possibly in garage across the street at this time. Caller saw a female in grass in front of house and was holding the screen door. When caller locked the door the female ran off - Fifth Street, Mount Vernon 10:04 p.m. - Domestic Violence - Advised that two black males harassing the neighbor Vine Street, Mount Vernon March 10 7:24 a.m. - Custodial Interference - Male subject picked up caller’s son, which is male subject’s son from childcare.

Caller has a protective order against him. Male subject came to caller’s apartment. He is not supposed to be there Main Street, Mount Vernon 7:39 a.m. - Officer Standby - Maintenance with apartment complex request standby for eviction and lock change Green Valley, Mount Vernon 4:25 a.m. - Structure Fire Fully involved house fire - Old Beech Road, New Harmony 5:07 p.m. - Suspicious Male subject on the overpass, wearing camo jacket, pointing a handgun down on vehicles I64, Stewartsville 6:05 p.m. - Officer Standby - Caller is needing standby while getting items. Caller advised subject there threatening to harm him when he arrives Midway Drive, Poseyville 9:18 p.m. - Violation of Restraining Order - Caller advised female subject has a protective order against him and he has one on her and she is following him around town - Posey County 11:56 p.m. - Domestic Violence - Can hear couple fighting. Advised they fight a lot but very bad tonight. Caller called back and advised it is getting physical--Boberg Road, Mount Vernon March 12 10:49 p.m. - Breaking and Entering - Someone broke into storage building and stuff is sitting outside the building Second Street, Mount Vernon 2:09 p.m. - Suspicious Female subject going around the neighborhood knocking on doors - Lynn Drive, Mount Vernon 4:07 p.m. - Suspicious -

Caller advised younger female was walking her dog and struggling to make the dog walk with her. Advised male subject in a blue Ram truck pulled over to help her. Caller is just wanting her checked on to make sure female doesn’t get snatched - SR 62/West Franklin Road, Evansville March 13 11:48 a.m. - Family Fight - Advised mother-in-law is causing problems and is being belligerent. Mother-in-law is outside - Elk Trail, Evansville 12:04 p.m. - Domestic Violence - Advised a female subject went into the shed, screaming and fighting. A male subject walked out the door and back in - Eighth Street, Mount Vernon 2:52 p.m. - General Complaint - Advised that male subject came to pick up his child. Caller advised that male subject has left and is at the library - College Avenue, Mount Vernon 3:52 p.m. - Violation of Restraining Order - Caller advised ex-wife has been calling his house phone and also made contact with his mother and cussed her - Deer Run, Evansville 8:49 p.m. - Custodial Interference - Caller advised her ex-husband has her daughter and he text the caller, stated that he was going to find him and that he isn’t getting his daughter back - Ninth Street, Mount Vernon March 14 1:36 p.m. - Trespassing Advised male subject won’t leave the residence. He is a former employee. Subject left while on the phone, caller still wants to speak with officer. Caller advised subject also stole cash from him earlier this week but didn’t report it at the time because he was an employee - Peterson Road, Evansville 10:44 p.m. - Threatening - Advised that someone just texted caller’s teenage daughter. Caller advised the text stated that someone was outside and threatening to kill daughter. Advised her husband checked outside but no one was there. Caller is requesting an officer - Second Street, Mount Vernon March 15 12:48 p.m. - Citizen Dispute - Advised her daughter is going to tear the yard up when they come move a camper Lang Road, Poseyville 3:32 p.m. - Family Fight-Advised granddaughter just threw a can at her. Is requesting law enforcement--Stonewood Drive, Mount Vernon 9:03 p.m. - Message - Caller says that subjects have all her information and credit card information. Has given them money, now they are making threatening phone calls - Sharp Street, Poseyville 11:42 p.m. - Suspicious - Two subjects in the area, possibly stealing things in the area - Freemans Lane, New Harmony March 16 8:03 a.m. - Breaking and Entering - Caller advised someone broke into her garage. Unsure if anything is missing - Third Street, Mount Vernon 9:10 a.m. - Theft - Caller advised someone stole his ac unit - Water Street, Mount Vernon March 17 12:10 a.m. - Suspicious Male subject was yelling and

when asked why, advised he was yelling for his dog. Then two other males joined him and they are walking around.

Wants area checked in case they are stealing - Seventh/ Nettleton, Mount Vernon 8:24 a.m. - Domestic Violence - Caller advised her husband just attacked her. Advised there are knives in the residence. Does not need medical.

Cannot get away from him.

There are children in the residence. Has one child with her.

Male subject just walked outside and has a child with him as well. Caller advised he tried to punch her in the face and then tackled her to the ground.

Caller advised they were fighting over money - Elm Street, Mount Vernon 8:30 p.m. - Domestic Violence - Male subject assaulted her daughter. Advised they have photographic evidence of this - No location, Mount Vernon 10:29 p.m. - Suspicious Advised the shed behind the pole barn in the empty lot was open earlier today. Says he thought subject that owns it was around. Caller states barn is still open and would like it checked on - Wolflin Street, Mount Vernon 10:34 p.m. - Extra Patrol Request extra patrol because caller’s late husband’s brothers are coming to the property and taking things. Caller advised that no one is supposed to be there - Eighth Street, Mount Vernon March 18 7:24 a.m. - Welfare Check - Nissan Versa parked in the field, occupied by two males that are passed out inside the car. They are breathing. Caller doesn’t feel comfortable waking them up himself - Continental Camp Road, Griffin 8:43 a.m. - Suspicious Caller advised this residence is unoccupied and appears to have been broken into. Advised signs of forced entry and garage looks ransacked - Vine Street, Mount Vernon 8:43 a.m. - General Complaint - Reference an accident that occurred yesterday. The other party is refusing to give her his info - Westwood Drive, Mount Vernon 12:34 p.m. - Assault - Caller advised she is needing to file a report reference her daughter being assaulted - Fifthth Street, Mount Vernon 2:00 p.m. - theft - Advised named subject was arrested last night. Says subject tore up his yard. Took a trailer. Did not see subject take it but knows he is the only one on the property would - Pearl Street, Mount Vernon 2:39 p.m. - Assault - Caller advised her grandchild was

beat up - No location, Mount Vernon 5:14 p.m. - Breaking and Entering - Advised someone broke into his house last night - Vine Street, Mount Vernon 5:59 p.m. - Assault - Advised his son was jumped by two male subjects, both juveniles. Advised son does not need medical attention. Advised juveniles are gone, no weapons - Vine Street, Mount Vernon 8:09 p.m. - Assault - Happened around lunch time today. Caller advised earlier this morning; white female, blonde hair, running down the road.

Male subject was running behind her and pushing her and grabbing her and knocked her down. Caller yelled at the male. Both subjects went back to the apartments - Blairsville Lane, Blairsville 9:02 p.m. - Juvenile Problem - Advised their grandchild is hitting her other grandmother - Story Street, Stewartsville 10:55 p.m. - Family Fight Caller advised husband shoved his daughter into the couch.

Caller advised husband is out in shop area - Third Street, Mount Vernon 10:58 p.m. - Family Fight Male subject advised wife and stepdaughter attacked caller because he tried to take Xbox.

Does not need medical attention, is outside - Third Street, Mount Vernon March 19 10:05 a.m. - Suspicious White male in a navy F150 has been parked in lot since 7 am. Advised keeps getting out of vehicle, walking down Canal. Wearing a hooded sweatshirt with black yellow stripes - Fourth Street, Mount Vernon 12:28 p.m. - Theft - Caller advised someone just broke into her garage and into her car. Advised they took clothing and other items - Water Street, Mount Vernon 1:10 p.m. - Controlled Substance Problem - Subjects in apartment smoking dope - Green Valley Drive, Mount Vernon 2:38 p.m. - Repossession 2018 Ford Escape, white - Industrial Road, Mount Vernon 3:56 p.m. - Suspicious Son has been in her house and stole something - Water Street, Mount Vernon March 20 7:55 a.m. - Suspicious Subject on bike carrying an assault rifle - Watertank Road,

Poseyville 12:32 p.m. - Sex Offense Advised the subject that lives upstairs is a sex offender and normally he comes to her place and offers her food, which she declines. Today, he came downstairs and asked her to come to his apartment and she said what for. Advised male subject stated for you to love me - Vine Street, Mount Vernon 8:33 p.m. - Assault - Male subject punched in her in the face. Caller advised they have been arguing about Chicago Jerseys and that caller owes him money. Caller also advised subject threatened him earlier - Fourth Street, Mount Vernon 8:42 p.m. - Domestic Violence - Caller advised she went to pick up from kids father and father shoved her out the door - Boberg Road, Evansville 11:41 p.m. - Trespassing Can see around 7 kids looking in windows at church - Welborn Road, Mount Vernon Divorces Granted Lisa Bailey and Chad Bailey Chassy E. Beebe and Jeffrey D. Beebe Amber Bontrager and Vernon Bontrager Brandi Carnahan and Paul Carnahan, II Miranda Choate and Joshua Choate Ross Collins and Wendy Camille Collins Tracey Feldkamp and Bradley A. Feldkamp Tiffanie Hayden and Michael W. Hayden Gena Marie Hisch and Chad Edward Hisch Mary Huckleby and Christopher Huckleby Gretchen Marie Kellams and Joseph Robert Kellams Bruce L. Kirk, Jr. and Brandy Kirk Matthew R. Mahrenholz and Emily M. Mahrenholz Lacey Mason and Ryan Mason Jody M. Mattingly and Robert G. Mattingly Candy Nurrenbern and Derek Nurrenbern Scarlette Rodenberg and Tyler Rodenberg Marco O. Stewart, III and Ivy C. Stewart Robert Alan Thompson and Tammy Lee Thompson Edna L. Woodard and Buford W. Woodard

2020-58 To satisfy the owner’s lien, taking bids on entire contents of 3 mini storage units: #24 (5 x 12) rented by Shawna Brandenstein #25 (10 x 12) rented by Brian McCurry #34 (5 x 12) rented by Yvonne Temme Contents go to highest bidder. Bids taken at 9:00 am on Friday, May 1, 2020 at 71 N. Fletchall Avenue, Poseyville, IN 47633 (812-639-7143) Published in the Posey County News on March 31, 2020 - hspaxlp

2020-56 NOTICE TO BIDDERS Notice is hereby given by the Town Council of the Town of New Harmony, Indiana, that sealed bids will be received by said Council at the Town Hall, 520 Church St., New Harmony, Indiana, up to 8:30 a.m. on April 21, 2020, for the sale of the following surplus equipment: *2004 Chevrolet Silverado with 94,000+ miles *General Electric Refrigerator *Coat Rack *Murphy Park Sign *Fire Station Signs (2) *School Sign *Wicker chairs (4) *4-Foot Bench *Small Utility Wagon *1999 TM 6500 Giant Vac with 65 HP Wisconsin Engine (Engine is Blown) All items are sold “As Is” Bid award shall be based upon the highest responsive and responsible bid.

No bidder may withdraw his bid for a period of thirty (30) days after the date of the receipt of bids.

The Town Council of the Town of New Harmony reserves the right to reject any and all bids.

Bids will be opened at 8:30 a.m. on April 21, 2020, at a meeting of the Town Council of the Town of New Harmony.

Please contact the Town Hall at 812-682-4846 with questions or for viewing of the items please contact Bobby Grider at 812-307-0132.

New Harmony Town Council Published in the Posey County News on March 24, March 31, 2020 - hspaxlp

C

MARCH 31, 2020

THE POSEY COUNTY NEWS - PAGE A11

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Sudoku of the Week

3/31

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MARCH 31, 2020

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Advisor Mike Wassmer to retire at year’s end After 32 years, Wassmer decides to stick with plan

The new Mr. and Mrs. Mike Wassmer. Mike will retire as the North Posey ag teacher at the end of this year.

He devoted 32 years to the ag program.

By Dave Pearce North Posey High School agriculture teacher Mike Wassmer, by admission, is a little OCD. When he has a plan, it is incredibly likely he will be following it through to completion.

So at the end of the school year, Wassmer will be able to mark another item off his plan list. He will retire after 32 years as the head agriculture guy at North Posey High School.

“That was the plan from the day one,” Wassmer said of his intentions to retire from teaching at age 55.

‘I graduated from Gibson Southern High School (in 1983) and went on to Purdue.”

In many instances, careers are just hitting their stride at age 55. Many feel that is a time when they can begin to slow down and take it a little easier and enjoy the fruits of their labor over the years. But Wassmer is not that person.

“I think it is time for a new passion,” Wassmer said. “I think they need some new and younger blood in there. I never liked teachers who are just hanging on collecting a paycheck when I was in school.

I didn’t feel they were doing me justice. I guess I could say I am tired and I just don’t have the “push” that I once had.”

Wassmer isn’t a typical teacher/career story, either.

“I didn’t even take ag until my junior year,” he explained. “I was on the college route and my first plan major was mine reclamation. I had already been accepted to Purdue but I was thinking about going to Wabash Valley because several of the mines were

shutting down in about 1982. At that point, he had to make a decision.

Going through his mind was what career could he have and yet still be able to farm? So that’s how he landed in agriculture education.

So when Wassmer and his buddy Andy Maier, both ag education students at Purdue, decided they wanted to come home to student teach. They begged Purdue to let them come home and student teach but were told they could not do their student teaching at their home high school.

So Maier went to Princeton and Wassmer came to North Posey to teach under Jon Neufelder.

So once graduation rolled around, there were not a lot of openings for ag teachers in the area.

“It’s kind of a funny story that we interviewed against each other at North Putnam,” Wassmer said with a chuckle. “In the end, when it was time for the third interview, I just told Andy that I had decided I was going to look for

something else. So he took the job there and there were no other jobs when I graduated.”

So what happens when there are no jobs in a chosen field the year you graduate? You’re right.

Wassmer returned to Purdue and earned his master’s degree.

“I was fortunate because in the summer after graduation, I worked at Emge Packing Company and we made really good money there,” Wassmer explained.

“I was working on the line one day and decided that when there are no jobs, you go back to school.”

In the spring of 1988, Wassmer got a call from his old friend Andy Maier who told him that North Posey’s agriculture teacher Jon Neufelder had decided to leave to take a job outside of teaching. They had offered Maier the job but he had already decided he was not going to take the job. He told Wassmer he would give him a little time to get his resume together.

He sent a resume in to then-superintendent Byron Brenton. He interviewed for the job and was hired.

And 32 years later…here we are.”

“One thing that I have never forgotten was that right during the middle of the interview, Ned Williams came breaking through the door and told Mr. Brenton he just had one question for me. He busted in wearing his work clothes and work boots. He had done some dirt work and was wanting to sow some grass. He wanted my opinion if I thought it would be a good idea to plant it,” Wassmer exclaimed,

Wassmer pictured with Reagan Koester who, in 2019, earned the National top prize in Agriscience Social Science Division 1.

Thank You Posey County s r e m Far 812-838-3286

Mike Wassmer will retire after the end of the current school year.

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relating the startle that must have accompanied the interruption. “It caught me off guard and I thought for a second and gave him the best answer I could. I told him that my dad had always told me that you never plant grass unless the name of the month ended in the letter ‘R’.”

Williams said that was good enough for him and that he would not plant the grass seed and that was the only question he had.

“I never knew if that was something that was planned or if it just happened,” Wassmer said with a laugh. “I never mentioned it again.”

To say that Wassmer had a stellar career at North Posey would be an understatement. He has taught thousands of Posey County students and has served as FFA advisor to countless students, as well. But in typical Wassmer fashion, he reflects the credit away from himself and onto the students, the administration, supporters and parents.

Undoubtedly, you will spend little time talking with Wassmer that he doesn’t make mention of his father, Marcus Wassmer. Those who know them both concur that the two are very much alike.

Wassmer’s wife Kristine agrees that dealing with the loss of his father was the hardest thing he has dealt with and that memories of him and their times together are very dear to him. So coming back to the area, being able to be near his father was an obvious highlight.

“Honestly, I always thought I wanted to go back to Gibson Southern and part

Mike Wassmer and 1983 prom date Kristine Karges, now Mr. and Mrs. Mike Wassmer. of that was that the pay was better,” Wassmer said. “In the end, I’m really glad I never did. North Posey was just a better fit for me.”

Wassmer, who shies away from his own accomplishments, admits that it has been a good run for a school the size of North Posey. But he does give some credit to his upbringing for at least a measure of his success.

“My dad always said things once,” he said sternly. “You either moved and got it done or something else happened. I tell the students that they have to know how I am. I have a list of things that I need to happen during the day and if I don’t get it accomplished, it’s a problem.”

Besides enjoying many successes in the classroom, he has been the FFA advisor for over 30 achievers of the American Farmer Award, a rarely-earned four-year process award, as well as the advisor for Indiana State FFA officer Kayla Hoenert.

“That was a highlight of my career because I don’t think most people realize just how tough it is to become a state officer,” Wassmer said.

Just last year, an incoming FFA student, Reagan Koester earned the National top prize in Agriscience Social Science Division 1.

She collaborated with the Purdue university college of Academic programs and recruitment. Reagan Developed a survey and workshop that was easy to understand for middle school students to show them how their natural interests can relate to a career in agriculture. That was a first in Wassmer’s career.

“I just couldn’t have found a better fit for me,” Wassmer surmised. “I was born in Gibson County and ended up teaching in Posey and farming in Posey.

I’ve gotten to know a lot of people and community support has never been an issue. Some of my buddies

Continued on B4

ng

PAGE B4

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MARCH 31, 2020

‘Wassmer’ continued from Page B4 who ended up getting out of teaching, that is one of the primary reasons they gave…no administration and community support. That was never an issue here.”

Wassmer’s OCD rarely takes a long time to achieve anything but just a couple of years ago, he marked off perhaps the biggest item on his list. He married Kristine Karges, his 1983 date to the Gibson Southern Prom. He will be the first to tell you that the best things in life are worth waiting for.

“Once we graduated, we went our separate ways and 35 years later, we got married,” Wassmer said. “She is one of the best things to ever happen to me. I’m not sure I would have gotten through the past few years without her.”

Wassmer’s family now consists of wife Kristine, along with step-children Emily, Eli, and Sophia Atkinson.

A get-together was being planned in Wassmer’s honor for sometime in the early summer but with everything that’s going on in the world right now, he’s not certain when or if it will happen.

“I would guess we will not go back to school and this is not how I wanted to finish,” Wassmer said with obvious disappointment. “There’s a group trying to get a scholarship together and I think their plans are on hold right now.

It may not happen like they planned but there’s nothing that says it can’t happen once we get through this…and we will get through it.”

As for the immediate future, few people realize that for the past 25 years, Wassmer has left his home around 4 a.m. to get to his job involving pigs in Vanderburgh County.

After that work is done, he returns to North Posey to begin the school day. And often, after the school day ends, FFA activities begin. He looks forward to being able to cut

Present and former North Posey High School ag students who attended their teacher’s wedding two years ago. back, at least a little, on his responsibilities. Co-workers afforded that luxury by Jon Neufelder and wants to pay it and students know that if he is ever late, there is a serious forward. issue.

There are no mixed emotions on his retirement decision.

But upon retirement, don’t expect to see Wassmer laying He knows the time is right. around on the sofa eating bon-bons. He has plenty of pay“I’ll miss the kids and the classroom,” Wassmer said. ing and gratis work lined up.

“I might be a little burned out on the FFA part because in “I hope I have been a positive influence on the students,” involved so much extra time. But I made up my mind years Wassmer said humbly. “I has always told them the first ago and we’re going to go with it.” day they walk into class that they have to understand me or it’s not going to work. I think ‘neat’ and I like to get things done. Work comes first and play comes second.”

He has made it known that he will be available to help or advise his replacement in any way possible. He was

Honoring 2017 FFA students. Thank you, Mr. Mike Wassmer for your commitment to our students.

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MARCH 31, 2020

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Trump labels Ag as critical industry during Corona outbreak much needed reassurance.”

“The Trump Administration should especially be commended to recognize the importance of the entire supply chain — from input provides to farmers and ranchers to food processors to retailers,” he said in a statement. “Leaving one link in this chain out of this designation would have made the task facing American agriculture all that much harder.”

Yesterday, more than 40 farm groups sent a letter to President Donald Trump asking that the administration “be mindful of the food, feed, and agricultural supply chain and workforce impacts on the ability of U.S. agriculture to meet the needs of consumers.” The Department of Transportation’s Federal motor Carrier Safety Administration has already

Phone 812-838-6703 Fax 812-838-6712 1701 Leonard Rd. Mt. Vernon, IN.

gressional leaders and the Trump administration, TFI President and CEO Corey Rosenbusch noted the upcoming planting season and said the “timely delivery of plant nutrients to American farmers is critical to their ability to produce food, fuel, and fiber.”

The ag industry is facing a long list of unforeseen complications as the virus hits thousands of people across the country.

Farm groups are concerned about labor issues should critical workers become infected and are also worried about the approval process for H-2A workersseeking to come to the U.S. to work during the upcoming planting season.

So far, agribusiness interests say they’re operating as usual. The Food and Drug Administration has suspended some of its

inspection activities, but USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service has not, and USDA leaders have said they will “continue to ensure that grading and inspection personnel are available.” Meat packing

plants cannot operate without a USDA inspector.

DHS notes the designation is advisory in nature and “is not, nor should it be considered to be, a federal directive or standard in and of itself.”

WE’RE A PROUD SUPPORTER OF LOCAL AGRICULTURE

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lifted hours of service restrictions for livestock transport.

National Pork Producers Council President Howard “A.V.” Roth welcomed the guidance; NPPC was among many groups pushing for the official designation this week.

“We recognize that states and local governments are working hard to ensure operational continuity,” he said. “As part of that effort, we urge state and local governments to swiftly follow and implement this federal directive.

We need to ensure there is a continuous and uninterrupted supply of pork to America’s kitchen tables.”

The Fertilizer Institute also welcomed the move after sounding the alarm yesterday about the important timing of the designation. In a letter to con-

WE’RE A PROUD SUPPORTER OF LOCAL AGRICULTURE

The Trump administration has labeled agriculture as a critical industry in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, allowing businesses to continue operating as usual amid current and potential restrictions created to stem the spread of the virus.

The declaration came by way of the Department of Homeland Security, which extended the designation to the entire food and agriculture production system.

Farm groups in recent days had been concerned about the potential for movement restrictions put in place to limit exposure of the virus, including the potential for halted shipment of inputs needed for the upcoming planting season.

National Council of Farmer Cooperatives President and CEO Chuck Conner said the move “provides

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2020 S A

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MARCH 31, 2020

Farm-grown beauty makes the most of ag opportunities Jenna Veatch uses 4-H to enhance life skills

By Thomas Butler Mount Vernon High School junior Jenna Veatch is proud of her family and honors them in the choices she makes. She is the daughter of Karen Upshaw and Alan Veatch and the granddaughter of Ronald and Rita Simpson who have farmed Posey County for generations.

Veatch does not sit idle and fills her time with sports, academics, community service, and clubs.

She plays volleyball and tennis, she is a member of Key Club, Sadd, Student Council, and the Student Athletic Council. She is a Wildcat Ambassador - a group of high school varsity athletes that are selected to spend six hours a semester

going to other schools in the district to help in the classroom and act as role models to show younger students what a well-rounded athlete does.

Veatch was also selected

by Dr. Matt Thompson to the Leadership Academy where once a month she and the other members meet with prominent leaders in the community to talk about their leadership philosophies and successes in business and community endeavors. She was Miss Teen Posey County at the 4-H fair. She is a member of FFA. She is the class treasurer and a member of the National Honor Society, but her favorite activities are rooted in family. She loves 4-H and what drew

her to 4-H was family tradition.

“My grandpa, mom, uncle and cousins all participated in 4-H and I grew up watching them. I was the youngest and I couldn’t wait for it to be my turn.

It’s a family thing for me.

Family is important. It is great to have a support system and it’s cool when you have something you all care about and can do together,” Veatch said.

This is her ninth year in 4-H. Every year she shows sheep and last year she also began showing cows. She also does building projects and scrapbooking. She was the club treasurer for two years and is currently the president.

In eighth grade she

became involved in FFA. “I had always shown animals through 4-H and I wanted to try livestock judging.

Alicia Schmidt was the agriculture teacher and she got me involved,” Veatch said.

Veatch isn’t quite sure what she wants to do as a career at this time, but she is certain that it will involve some aspect of public speaking, a skill she enjoys and owes to FFA. “My freshman year we watched a documentary in my agriculture class over GMOs and I found it very interesting. Mrs. Schmidt suggested that I do a speech over it at the District Convention. I didn’t want to, but Mrs. Schmidt encouraged me and I won at District, advanced to State and placed fifth. I learned a lot about myself through that process and I discovered that I love public speaking,” Veatch said.

Her sophomore year she competed in extemporaneous public speaking where she had to select three topics from a hat, choose one of the three and then she was given 30 minutes to research, write and give the speech to the judges’ panel.

“It was stressful but fun. I chose the topic ‘The endangered species act’.

I had great comments but I was short on my time so I didn’t win, but it was a great learning experience,” Veatch said. Veatch

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Jenna Veatch poses with her grand champion heifer, Willow. has gone to state through FFA in livestock judging, and her AgroScience fair project with Amber Collier received fifth in the nation.

The topic was a social science over the public’s perception on technology in agriculture.

“We surveyed people to get our research and it was interesting to me that the older generations agreed that technology is good, but we need humans as part of the process. The younger generation didn’t feel the human aspect was as important,” Veatch said.

This year Veatch served as the chapter historian and also served as the district 10 reporter and competed in the Livestock skillathon where she was required to correctly identify equipment, breeds, feed, medication and other livestock production topics.

Next year Veatch will be the vice president for her FFA chapter and would have been inducted at the annual FFA banquet, however, the banquet is on hold and the upcoming district competitions have been postponed due to the current limitations brought about by the Coronavirus.

“My projects are done and I will keep practicing and hope everything gets

rescheduled,” Veatch said.

To combat boredom with the social distancing Veatch still has plans.

“With all my activities, I always have a deadline. I’m using this time to breathe and get caught up on stuff I don’t normally get to do like adding to my scrapbooks, watching a little tv or maybe even cleaning my room. Also, my sheep still need to be fed and cared for. I show cows for Mrs. Schmidt, so I still go and work with the heifers, getting them tame and used to people,” Veatch said.

For a girl who is always busy, this has put a halt to a majority of her activities, but Veatch keeps a positive attitude, one that she attributes largely to her family values and to 4-H and FFA. “These organizations give me responsibility and leadership and open my eyes to different perspectives - academics, athletics, community service all place me with a variety of different people and give me a larger understanding of how the world works making me a more wellrounded individual. It gives me a sense of purpose. It provides activities that keep me involved and on the right track,” Veatch said.

Jenna Veatch shows her sheep Thunder at the Posey County 4-H Fair. Photos submitted

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2020 S A

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PAGE B7

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MARCH 31, 2020

Farm-grown beauty makes the most of ag opportunities Jenna Veatch uses 4-H to enhance life skills

By Thomas Butler Mount Vernon High School junior Jenna Veatch is proud of her family and honors them in the choices she makes. She is the daughter of Karen Upshaw and Alan Veatch and the granddaughter of Ronald and Rita Simpson who have farmed Posey County for generations.

Veatch does not sit idle and fills her time with sports, academics, community service, and clubs.

She plays volleyball and tennis, she is a member of Key Club, Sadd, Student Council, and the Student Athletic Council. She is a Wildcat Ambassador - a group of high school varsity athletes that are selected to spend six hours a semester

going to other schools in the district to help in the classroom and act as role models to show younger students what a well-rounded athlete does.

Veatch was also selected

by Dr. Matt Thompson to the Leadership Academy where once a month she and the other members meet with prominent leaders in the community to talk about their leadership philosophies and successes in business and community endeavors. She was Miss Teen Posey County at the 4-H fair. She is a member of FFA. She is the class treasurer and a member of the National Honor Society, but her favorite activities are rooted in family. She loves 4-H and what drew

her to 4-H was family tradition.

“My grandpa, mom, uncle and cousins all participated in 4-H and I grew up watching them. I was the youngest and I couldn’t wait for it to be my turn.

It’s a family thing for me.

Family is important. It is great to have a support system and it’s cool when you have something you all care about and can do together,” Veatch said.

This is her ninth year in 4-H. Every year she shows sheep and last year she also began showing cows. She also does building projects and scrapbooking. She was the club treasurer for two years and is currently the president.

In eighth grade she

became involved in FFA. “I had always shown animals through 4-H and I wanted to try livestock judging.

Alicia Schmidt was the agriculture teacher and she got me involved,” Veatch said.

Veatch isn’t quite sure what she wants to do as a career at this time, but she is certain that it will involve some aspect of public speaking, a skill she enjoys and owes to FFA. “My freshman year we watched a documentary in my agriculture class over GMOs and I found it very interesting. Mrs. Schmidt suggested that I do a speech over it at the District Convention. I didn’t want to, but Mrs. Schmidt encouraged me and I won at District, advanced to State and placed fifth. I learned a lot about myself through that process and I discovered that I love public speaking,” Veatch said.

Her sophomore year she competed in extemporaneous public speaking where she had to select three topics from a hat, choose one of the three and then she was given 30 minutes to research, write and give the speech to the judges’ panel.

“It was stressful but fun. I chose the topic ‘The endangered species act’.

I had great comments but I was short on my time so I didn’t win, but it was a great learning experience,” Veatch said. Veatch

Mulzer Crushed Stone Inc.

We’re a proud part of

Midwest agriculture

Jenna Veatch poses with her grand champion heifer, Willow. has gone to state through FFA in livestock judging, and her AgroScience fair project with Amber Collier received fifth in the nation.

The topic was a social science over the public’s perception on technology in agriculture.

“We surveyed people to get our research and it was interesting to me that the older generations agreed that technology is good, but we need humans as part of the process. The younger generation didn’t feel the human aspect was as important,” Veatch said.

This year Veatch served as the chapter historian and also served as the district 10 reporter and competed in the Livestock skillathon where she was required to correctly identify equipment, breeds, feed, medication and other livestock production topics.

Next year Veatch will be the vice president for her FFA chapter and would have been inducted at the annual FFA banquet, however, the banquet is on hold and the upcoming district competitions have been postponed due to the current limitations brought about by the Coronavirus.

“My projects are done and I will keep practicing and hope everything gets

rescheduled,” Veatch said.

To combat boredom with the social distancing Veatch still has plans.

“With all my activities, I always have a deadline. I’m using this time to breathe and get caught up on stuff I don’t normally get to do like adding to my scrapbooks, watching a little tv or maybe even cleaning my room. Also, my sheep still need to be fed and cared for. I show cows for Mrs. Schmidt, so I still go and work with the heifers, getting them tame and used to people,” Veatch said.

For a girl who is always busy, this has put a halt to a majority of her activities, but Veatch keeps a positive attitude, one that she attributes largely to her family values and to 4-H and FFA. “These organizations give me responsibility and leadership and open my eyes to different perspectives - academics, athletics, community service all place me with a variety of different people and give me a larger understanding of how the world works making me a more wellrounded individual. It gives me a sense of purpose. It provides activities that keep me involved and on the right track,” Veatch said.

Jenna Veatch shows her sheep Thunder at the Posey County 4-H Fair. Photos submitted

Day after day, Mulzer delivers thousands of tons of state-approved crushed stone for “driveways to highways” construction projects throughout our market area.

QUARRIES FOR ANY SIZE CONTRACT • • • •

Construction Aggregates Concrete Aggregates Erosion Control Flue-gas Desulfurization

• • • •

Anti-skid Aggregates Aglime Product Testing Quality Control

PAGE B8

2020 S A

MARCH 31, 2020

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2020 S A

MARCH 31, 2020

Purdue Fast Start program forging a new path for IN students

By Hans Schmitz Every promising Indiana student deserves the opportunity to pursue an affordable, world-class education. With its new Fast Start program, which could easily save Indiana families thousands of dollars, Purdue University has taken yet another step toward making this possible.

Fast Start, created by Purdue in partnership with the philanthropic online learning program Modern States, is designed to help Indiana high school students earn access to up to a year of college credit through free online courses and the corresponding College Level Examination Program (CLEP) exams. Students receive assured admission into Purdue if they complete five courses, pass the corresponding CLEP exams and meet the University’s standard admissions requirements.

This partnership with Modern States creates opportunities for Indiana students to take giant leaps in their education with a direct track to Purdue. The move also aligns with Purdue’s land-grant mission and its continued commitment to affordability and accessibility — a longtime University priority that has led to nearly 60% of Purdue students now graduating debt-free.

“Too many young Hoosiers miss out on college either because of its cost or simply a disbelief that they can succeed there,” says Purdue President Mitch Daniels. “Our Purdue-sponsored high schools are one attempt to open a new pathway to Purdue, and this new venture is another, with special relevance to rural and small-town youth.”

Steve Klinsky, CEO and founder of Modern States, says, “Modern States and my family are pleased to partner with Purdue to make college more attainable for students throughout Indiana. Purdue has long been a leader in innovations to help students, and we hope this effort will both help families throughout the state and create a model for many other universities nationwide.”

Innovating for Indiana Fast Start will allow Hoosier students to take online courses and CLEP exams at no cost. Passing five CLEP exams — the equivalent of one semester — can save students and their parents the cost of an entire semester, and almost $11,000. And passing 10 CLEPs — the equivalent of one full year — amounts to more than $21,000 in savings when considering Purdue tuition and housing. Every individual CLEP passed is a big savings. Additionally, the Fast Start option can move students toward early graduation and early entry into the workforce.

Purdue Fast Start offers support to high school students enrolled in the program, helping guide them through taking courses and tests, and navigating Purdue admittance. Students also can connect to Purdue alumni and friends for mentoring if desired. Once Fast

Start students accept admission into Purdue, they will be known as Klinsky Scholars.

The program officially launches in Fall 2020, with inaugural students granted admission for the Fall 2021 semester. As Purdue Fast Start begins outreach to prospective students this spring, Purdue Extension, which has offices in every Indiana county, will be a vital resource in helping reach students and their families.

Fast Start is available to all Indiana residents. But it’s especially beneficial to students in rural Indiana, in inner-city schools that often lack access to the full offering of Advanced Placement courses, or those for whom college education is less affordable. Purdue assures admission to students who pass a minimum of five CLEP exams through the program.

Purdue, the No. 6 most innovative school in the country according to U.S. News & World

report, also is ranked as the No. 7 best value school in the U.S. by The Wall Street Journal/ Times Higher Education.

The Fast Start program marks the University’s latest innovation in affordability and accessibility, a priority that dates to its 2012 tuition freeze. Other innovative initiatives include the creation of statewide Purdue Polytechnic High School locations, the Back a Boilermaker income-share agreement program and the Degree in 3 fast-track program, among others.

“This is a great opportunity for us to improve the lives of Indiana residents by working with students to increase educational attainment all across the state,” says Jason Henderson, senior associate dean and director of Purdue Extension.

Visit purdue.university/faststart for complete details on the Purdue Fast Start program.

Heather Baehl, left, and Jenna Deer, right worked the Basket Raffle table during the Posey County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting held February 20, 2020 at the Posey County Community Center.

Photo by Theresa Bratcher

Amber Allyn, Anna Weis, and Hayley Kueber show off their certificates from paging at the Indiana Statehouse on Tuesday, February 25. Photo submitted

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Mount Vernon’s port plays pivotal role to farming

By Pam Robinson From its beginning, the Port of Indiana-Mount Vernon, or the Port, has formed a strong relationship with area farmers.

“The Port opened in 1976, and the first year of operation and handling product was 1977,” states Port of Indiana-Mount Vernon Director, Phil Wilzbacher.

“Grain was the primary commodity handled the first year the Port opened.”

Today, the sixth largest inland port in the United States, the Port offers the infrastructure—bringing together three modes of transportation barge, rail, and truck—to handle farm commodities. “Being able to move product via multiple modes is how the Port supports the ag industry in our region,” Wilzbacher comments.

“More than 50 percent of [the Port’s] commodities are ag-related and are transported by barge, rail, and truck. For example, soybeans arrive by truck to be processed into soybean meal and soybean oil, which is shipped out via barge, rail, and truck. Corn arrives by truck and rail to be processed into ethanol and dried distillers grain and is shipped out primarily by barge,” he continues.

“Another ag commodity, fertilizer, arrives by barge and rail and is shipped out via trucks. So it takes all three modes for ag commodities to reach both domestic and global markets.”

As can be seen, agrelated companies at the Port provide a variety of services to farmers. Wilzbacher points to soybean processing, grain merchandising, ethanol production, and fertilizer. To that end, Port companies handle corn, soybeans, soybean meal, soybean oil, wheat, milo, ethanol, dried distillers grain, and fertilizer.

Aerial of Port of Indiana-Mount Vernon Two Port companies, Consolidated Grain and Barge (CGB), and Valero Renewable Fuels, allow farmers to sell their commodities directly. Wilzbacher explains how these two facilities strengthen the market for grain. “Consolidated Grain and Barge has the soybean processing plant. They purchase soybeans directly from farmers to process into products like soybean meal and soybean oil. Then, you have the ethanol facility here that is owned and operated by Valero Renewable Fuels. They purchase corn from area farmers and produce ethanol and dried distillers grain (DDGS),” he states. “These two companies are end-users.

They are not just buying and trading grain, which is called merchandising.

They are actually buying and consuming grain then processing it into products for the food, energy and animal feed sectors, which creates a stronger market for grain.

The two end-users have constructed and made

significant investments in their facilities at the Port.

With being an end-user, they have to consistently buy grain to keep their operations running 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and that creates a stronger market for grain products, corn and soybeans in this case.”

With fertilizer, Nutrien owns and operates two distribution terminals at the Port. These serve the wholesale and retail fertilizer markets in our region of the Midwest.

The relationships with these companies help to

keep Port tonnage consistent. “Generally speaking, the busiest seasons are Fall and Winter for inbound grain movement, but there is grain moving inbound to the Port year-round,” Wilzbacher comments. “Commodity prices can affect the timing of ag products inbound and outbound, but on an annual basis total tonnage runs relatively consistent year to year. Fertilizer can be more seasonal with spring and fall being the busier times.”

As Wilzbacher highlights, ag commodities, particularly grain, originate

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from a significant draw area including Southwest Indiana and Southeast Illinois. “Our companies have a strong relationship with farmers and grain dealers outside of Mount Vernon within the regions of Southwest Indiana and Southeast Illinois,” he says. “To give some perspective, there is grain being delivered to the port from as far as 75100 miles north of Mount Vernon.”

Records indicate the volume of farm commodities processed through the Port is substantial. “In 2019, approximately 2.3 million tons of ag commodities moved through the Port,” Wilzbacher states.

“Compared to our two other ports, Port of IndianaJeffersonville handled 1.3 million tons and Port of Indiana-Burns Harbor handled 255,000 tons of ag

commodities.”

As Wilzbacher indicates, the Port has a significant economic impact in the area. “The Port of IndianaMount Vernon offers existing infrastructure, yearround access to the Gulf of Mexico and Great Lakes, and offers capabilities to efficiently handle both general cargo and bulk commodities by barge, rail, and truck modes. The Port generates an annual economic impact of $1 billion annually with ag-related business being a substantial part of this total. When thinking about the annual volume of grain purchased by Port companies, this equates to over 740,000 acres of corn and soybeans.”

The relationship between the Port of Indiana-Mount Vernon’s ag-related companies and area farmers yields abundance in our area.

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Lang: Small Town Farmer receives Big Award

By Amber Allyn Kyle Lang, a Posey County Farmer, recently received an award for the National Corn Yield Contest in the state of Indiana from the NGCA, National Corn Growers Association. Since he was young, Lang knew that he had a great passion for farming.

Lang’s family has farmed in Posey County since 1839.

He is now the seventh generation to farm on his father’s side, John Lang, and also the sixth generation in his mother’s family, Rose Lang. Lang has been riding in a tractor since he can remember and even learned to drive a tractor at the age of eight. He loved helping his dad on the farm when he was younger. He has always wanted to help and learn as much as he possibly could, which is why he joined 4-H and FFA. Lang participated in 4-H for ten years and FFA for two years. Following high school, he attended Wabash Valley College in Mount Carmel, Illinois. He

received a degree in Agribusiness and Agricultural Production. Lang’s degrees supplied a great deal to his knowledge of agriculture and farming. He has been able to bring multiple new ideas to the production and technology aspect of the farm. His family and his degrees have contributed to his successes today.

After college, Lang knew exactly what he was destined to do, which was to return home to the family farm. His goal was to continue the family tradition, and it is apparent that he has done just that. Farming is something that he loves greatly and holds near and dear to his heart. Lang stated that farming is a challenging profession, but also extremely rewarding. While there are a great amount of risks, the rewards outweigh them by a long shot. One of the aspects he enjoys the most is the amount of hard work that must go into completing the job at hand. He likes that there is always

room for improvement and continues to strive to be better than they were the day before.

Kyle Lang has numerous tasks on the family farm, because he tends to do whatever he can possibly do to achieve their goals. Kyle, his grandpa William, his father John, and his uncle Tom currently grow corn and soybeans on three thousand acres. Many items go into putting seeds in the ground to get food on the consumers’ plates. Prior to planting season, Lang helps with the planning and preparation for the upcoming growing season. He makes planting rate prescriptions for each field they farm. During planting season, he prepares the seed bed and mixes the herbicides for spraying. While the crops grow, he continues to take tissue samples to monitor the nutrient levels in the plants and tests the plants’ sugar levels. Lang also scouts the fields for any diseases or pests. Throughout harvest season, he hauls

Kyle Lang of Mount Vernon, is pictured here with his family. Left to right are John and Katy Lang, Nancy and Brent Knight, Hadlee Whoberry, Kyle Lang, and Rose and Tom Lang. Kyle placed Second in the state in the B: Conventional Non-Irrigated Class of the 2019 National Corn Yield Contest, sponsored by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA). Lang, whose field entry yielded 294.98 bushels per acre, accepted their trophy at the annual Commodity Classic held in late February in San Antonio. grain from the fields to the be purchased and used in ceived an award for yield grain system on the farm the near future. Each task production. Using Agriand operates a combine to is equally important, be- gold Hybrid seeds, he grew harvest soybeans. He then cause they must all be done 249.98 bushels of corn. He does tillage work to prepare to reach success. While it recently went to Houston, the ground for the following seems that Lang’s position Texas to accept his second growing season. During the on the farm is difficult, he place award for the state of off season, Lang continues would not trade it for any Indiana in the National Corn to service trucks and ma- other profession.

Yield Contest. This award chinery, haul grain to the On the family farm, they is a great honor and Lang is local elevators and etha- are always looking for ways very deserving of it. All of nol plants, and look at soil to increase yields while also his hard work paid off, but tests to evaluate the nutrient having a large return on their he will still continue to do levels in the soil to deter- investments, which makes what he can to improve his mine what products should it not surprising that he re- farm every day.

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Keck-Gonnerman Museum at Posey Fairgrounds brings the past back to Posey County

By Pam Robinson The Keck Gonnerman Antique Machinery Association has made the name of the historic Keck Gonnerman Company a household word. Less well known is the Keck Gonnerman Museum, located on the second floor of the association’s club house, completed in 2016.

On a hilltop at the east side of the Posey County 4-H Fairgrounds, the inviting building preserves Posey County treasures from late 19th Century to early 20th Century. Best of all, visitors to the museum get in free.

The history and the artifacts of the time period come alive through the museum guide, David Morlock, President of the Keck Gonnerman Antique Machinery Association. He will speak and write about Keck Gonnerman history to anyone who will listen.

Once people meet with him, they will definitely want to listen.

“Keck Gonnerman Company in Mount Vernon made steam engines and threshing machines. They had huge foundries at the

time, and they cast all their own parts. When they said they made a steam engine, they meant they made a steam engine,” he jumps right in. “They started in 1873. They incorporated in 1901. They made their last piece of equipment and Keck Gonnerman was sold in 1953.”

The company is named after its founders, Mount Vernon residents Louis H. Keck and William Gonnerman. For 80 years, their company shaped agriculture in North America and boosted the economy in the Mount Vernon area.

Their parts and equipment shipped across the United States and into Canada.

Sold under the brand name Kay-Gee, Keck Gonnerman parts and machinery stood second to none.

“If you had a Keck steam engine and a Keck thresher, you were driving the Lexus of the group,” Morlock states.

Morlock’s great grandfather, who lived just northwest of today’s 4-H Fairgrounds, owned this coveted farming machinery. With no other means of transport, Morlock

Johlene Hoenert and Carla Schenk enjoy visiting during the Posey County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting held February 20, 2020 at the Posey County Community Center. Carla’s husband Matt was nominated and elected to serve on the PCFB board. Photo by Theresa Bratcher

reminds us, his grandfather drove the distance from Mount Vernon at about 1 m.p.h. to deliver his new purchase to his farm. Morlock adds when threshers were delivered across the U.S. by rail, the owners often drove them 20 miles to their destination.

Most farmers could only dream of such a purchase.

“They used to thresh in what they called groups or clans. Grandpa’s area was from roughly Big Creek to New Harmony and from the Wabash River to the crossroads down here [just past the fairgrounds].

It was a gentleman’s agreement—I’ll stay here,” he explains. “Sometimes, they would just get paid in wheat. If I owe you X dollars, and wheat’s worth this much, you take that much wheat. That’s how I paid my bill.”

As he continues to walk around the museum, Morlock points out artifacts Keck Gonnerman forged for additional purposes.

Nothing seems too small or too large for the company to create. “They built everything,” Morlock insists.

“If it could be made from metal, they made it.” From square-headed bolts, the norm for the day, to storm water drain covers (some still used in Mount Vernon), all the way to grain bins, Keck Gonnerman could build it.

River transportation depended on Keck Gonnerman. “If you broke down on the river, you couldn’t pull out your cell phone, call Mount Vernon, and say, ‘Hey, send me a part,’” Morlock stresses.

“Boats stopped, and they made things. They had a

David Morlock, President of the Keck Gonnerman Antique Machinery Association, stands in front of a bellows a worker would have used to fan the flames at the Keck Gonnerman Company’s foundry. Photo by Pam Robinson pump or something that busted, Keck would mold another one [to spec]. Only then, could the boat move again.”

Unsurprisingly, Keck Gonnerman achieved its share of “firsts.” Morlock provides a list of these impressive accomplishments.

The company was first established in 1873. It built the first steam engine and thresher in 1884. It brought out the first kerosene tractor, a two-cylinder model, in 1918. The first tractorsize thresher came out in 1921. It manufactured the first steel thresher in 1926.

The first four-cylinder Kay-Gee tractors were produced in 1928: 18-35 with a Buda motor, 25-50 with a Waukesha motor, and a 3060 with a LeRoi motor. The last Kay-Gee steam engine rolled out in 1930 with a 19 hp engine on a 22 hp boiler.

To pay tribute to the women workers of the period as well as the men, the Keck Gonnerman Museum features a household aisle in the center of the room.

Some notable items include a baby buggy, wooden ironing board and castiron irons, a hand-driven prototype of the automatic wringer washing machine, and a curtain stretcher be-

longing to Morlock’s great grandmother. He displays his great grandmother’s portable kerosene stove also.

The museum even honors the military with its display of a World War II uniform, foot locker, and field desk. It’s an exhibit Morlock would appreciate.

He served our country six years in the Marines during the Vietnam War. Morlock invites the public to the Keck Gonnerman Museum during the Annual Keck Gonnerman Antique Machinery Show at the Posey County Fairgrounds this summer. This year, the show runs from August 7-9 to celebrate its 30th anni-

versary. Admission is only $3 per person. T-shirts will be on sale as well as raffle tickets for a handsome, shiny red Farmall tractor.

“You’ve got to come to the show to see the thresher work and how it’s put together,” Morlock insists.

The show demonstrates one of the original Keck Gonnerman sawmills as well.

No one should be surprised to join the Keck Gonnerman Antique Machinery Association after one of Morlock’s tours.

Membership costs $10 per person for a year; $100 for a lifetime. Anyone can belong, anyone, not just farmers.

It’s a bargain no one

Colton Curl parks his tractor for “Drive Your Tractor to School Day” at Mount Vernon High School during FFA Week 2020. Photo by Amber Allyn

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MV FFA Week: Good Times and Tractor Rides

Amber Collier, Anna Weis, Alicia Schmidt, Hayley Kueber, Jenna Veatch, and Amber Allyn dressed up for Flannel Day during the National FFA Week.

By Amber Allyn Each year, FFA chapters around the nation celebrate National FFA Week in February. Each FFA chapter celebrates the impact FFA has had on them. During this

year’s FFA Week, the Mount Vernon FFA Chapter went to the Indiana Statehouse to page our local representative and senator, held an Agriculture Advisory Board Dinner, competed in the District 10 dodgeball

tournament, participated in spirit days, and drove tractors to school on Friday.

On Tuesday, February 25th, three members of the Mount Vernon FFA Chapter paged at the Indiana Statehouse alongside other FFA members from Indiana. During the day, students learned about state government, toured the statehouse, spoke to Wendy McNamara and Jim Tomes, and listened to a session. Amber Allyn and Hayley Kueber paged in the House of Representatives, and Anna Weis paged in the Senate. All students learned an abundance of information and hope to page again.

Mount Vernon FFA held their Annual Agriculture Advisory Board Dinner on Wednesday, February 26th. Thanks to Dewig Meats and Cody Pate, the majority of the dinner was donated. FFA members visited with residents from the community.

Those in attendance shared their ideas on how to grow the FFA chapter and get more students enrolled in agricultural classes.

Members went to Heritage Hills High

School on Thursday, February 27th for the Annual District 10 Dodgeball Tournament.

Those that attended were Bryce Dyehouse, Gracie Defur, Cade Pierce, Amber Allyn, and Jenna Veatch. While the team may not have won, members still enjoyed getting to know other members from FFA chapters in District 10 and Noah Berning, the Indiana FFA Treasurer.

Throughout the week, members dressed up for spirit days, including: Flannel Day, Blue and Gold Day, Twin Day, Open Season, and America Day. Even other students and staff dressed up for the days.

Finally, a few members concluded the week by driving their tractors to school on Friday, February 28th. Colton Curl drove a refurbished John Deere tractor to school, Austin Bell drove an Allis Chalmers tractor, and Daniel Juncker drove an International Harvester tractor to school.

Overall, FFA members celebrated the National FFA Week to its full potential and had fun while doing it.

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Purina representatives Dave Brinkmann, middle, and Jeff Gebke, right, grabbed George Nord, left, for this photo during the Posey County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting held February 20, 2020 at the Posey County Community Center. Photo by Theresa Bratcher

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Sandy Hasenour, left, and Stacey Michel, right, smile for the camera at the Posey County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting held February 20, 2020 at the Posey County Community Center. Photo by Theresa Bratcher

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Posey County Farm Bureau hosted their annual meeting on Thursday, February 20, 2020 at the Posey County Community Center. Among those attending the meeting were Steve Goebel, left, and Bruce Wells, right.

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Daniel Juncker in front of his tractor that he drove to school for “Drive Your Tractor to School Day” during Mount Vernon FFA Week. Photo by Amber Allyn

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