Observer Extras
The links below will help to make the Observer even more useful to you and your family and friends "Archive" gives you access to about one year of past issues of the Observer. You can catch up on something you missed or check on the details of a previous meeting. "Forward" lets you email the current issue of the Observer to anyone you'd like to share it with. Just click on "forward" and enter the email address.
|
The Franklin County Observer is a free email news service. At the Observer, we focus our coverage on events and meetings in Franklin County.
Our volunteer staff writers are all Franklin County residents who are committed to factual, impartial news reporting. To subscribe to the Observer, just click on this link and enter your email address.
|
The Observer will also help spread the word about events sponsored by community groups and non-profit organizations. You can email The Observer a brief announcement and we will try to publish it on a timely basis. You can help us spread the word too! Just click the "Forward email" button at the bottom and send this message to the people you think should be reading the Observer.
|
|
|
|
|
Accusations at Commissioner Meeting
At the end of the April 25th commissioner meeting, Commissioner Tom Wilson alleged that County Councilman Daryl Kramer told State Senator Jean Leising "not to give any money to Franklin County" as part of Senate Bill 67. Commissioner Wilson talked about a letter that he received from State Senator Jean Leising. He did not read it into the record.
County government recently received $803,000 as part of SB 67. Commissioner Wilson said that Councilman Kramer said extra money "would hurt the county in the long run." Commissioner Wilson asked why Councilman Kramer would not want the county to receive extra money? Commissioner Wilson said he did not mention this until now, because he did not want to lose the money.
Commissioner Wilson did not have Councilman Kramer's letter and did not share Senator Leising's letter.
Later, Senator Leising's staff provided her letter. Councilman Kramer provided his letter, which was sent to several state legislators in December 2015.
The letters do not support what Commissioner Wilson said.
Senator Leising's letter quotes Councilman Kramer's letter and asks Commissioner Wilson for his feedback about SB 67 and particularly about road funding. It does not say to leave out Franklin County.
Councilman Kramer's letter gives feedback to state legislators about the impact of withholding 50% of county collected taxes. He points out that this level of withholding makes it difficult to budget and has previously caused layoffs and cuts in county services. He suggests the state reduce the reserve to 10-15% of county taxes.
Councilman Kramer also wrote that the state should not put restrictions on how council spends the money collected to run the entire county. If the legislature says the money can only be spent on roadwork, then the county must increase taxes to pay for other county services.
Councilman Kramer's letter did not turn down tax money from the state.
In a subsequent interview, Councilman Kramer said his letter was written in December 2015 and he questioned why it is an issue now. He said, "Nowhere in the letter did I say that I did not want Franklin County to get the money."
Councilman Kramer wanted the state to change the formula about how it withholds county tax money and to provide that money to the county on a timely basis. He also objected to the state telling the county to spend its tax money on roads. He said that citizens pay taxes to run the county including the courts, sheriff deputies and other services, not just the Highway Department. He explained that the county already collects Economic Development Income Tax that is mostly spent on the Highway Department.
Commissioner Wilson also complained that Councilman Kramer did not understand the county financial reports, because he predicted that the county would end the year in the red by $600,000. Commissioner Wilson said the county ended the year with $1.4 million in County Adjusted Gross Income Tax (CAGIT) plus positive balances in other reserves.
In response, Councilman Kramer said that council budgeted for a worst-case scenario based upon what happened in past history. County council was also proactive in maintaining a positive cash flow. They set aside $300,000 less for health insurance. They did not spend all of the contingency fund and they made other changes. Council started in early 2015 to do advance planning for large expenses in the next five years. The county was also lucky in 2015 to have lower utility bills, fewer health insurance claims and less expense for liability insurance. Councilman Kramer said that his budget computations are available to the public.
Councilman Kramer is running for reelection to county council in the Republican primary next week. One of the other candidates is Tom Wilson's brother.
Reported by Sara Duffy |
|
Double the Money
County Commissioners - April 25, 2016
- The commissioners will use $803,000 from the state and apply for 50/50 grants for roadwork, effectively doubling that amount.
- Concerns raised over the security of the direct deposit of paychecks.
- Andersonville Community Center could close, if they receive no financial help.
DOUBLE $803,000 TO $1.6 MILLION
Commissioner Eric Roberts announced that the county would receive $803,000 from the state on April 25. That sum came from previously collected local county taxes that the state held in reserve and is now disbursing to local governments.
Commissioner Eric Roberts proposed asking county council to designate the entire amount be used to apply for 50/50 matching state grants for roadwork. That action by council would double the $803,000 to $1.6 million. Commissioner Roberts read from a "fact sheet" about the 50/50 grants. The county could get up to $500,000 per year under the grant program. He added, "If we want to play in this 50/50 funding, we have to save that lump sum from Senate Bill 67." The other commissioners agreed with Commissioner Roberts' idea and will send a letter to county council.
The legislature put restrictions on how local governments could spend the money. Commissioner Wilson said that 75% of the $803,000 had to be spent on infrastructure and 25% could be saved in the rainy day fund. County Engineer Ted Cooley said that the money could not be used for buying equipment. From the audience County Councilmember Keith Hall asked the commissioners to consider other purposes for the money besides roadwork, such as repairs to the Government Center. County Council President Becky Oglesby was also in the audience and she asked about using the money for road paving.
During county council's meeting the following day, they agreed with the commissioners. All of the $803,000 will be used to apply for 50/50 state grants for roadwork. Seventy-five percent of the new money will be allocated to the Highway Department and 25% will be placed in the rainy day fund for a future road project.
ASKING FOR $2.5 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDS
County Engineer Ted Cooley put price tags on three projects for which the county is requesting Federal Highway money in 2021. The St. Mary's Road Rehabilitation Project is estimated at $1.3 million with the county being responsible to pay 20% or $260,000. Second on the list is the rehabilitation of six bridges on Blue Creek Road at a cost of $1 million with the county's share at 20% or $200,000. The third priority is putting guardrails on St. Mary's Road at a cost of $250,000 with the county's share at 10% or $25,000.
Commissioner Wilson commented about St. Mary's Road, "We've got to fix that slide or we won't have a road." Commissioner Linkel agreed that the road might not last until they get federal funding in 2021. Commissioner Roberts said that any money, which the county spent on repairs after the project was approved, would count toward the county's 20% match.
The commissioners signed project commitment letters and will ask county council to also sign commitment letters. The county should receive an answer by October regarding what will be funded.
SAVE BRIDGE MONEY FOR BRIDGES
During public comments, Councilmember Hall said that he wanted to talk about a long-range strategy for funding the federal projects. If the commissioners use bridge tax money to pay for the St. Mary's Road Rehabilitation Project, there will be no money for needed bridge repairs. Councilmember Hall suggested they save bridge money for bridges and consider other options to pay for St. Mary's Road.
SHORTHANDED ON EAST SIDE OF COUNTY
Commissioner Roberts' part of the Highway Department on the east side of the county will be shorthanded this summer due to an upcoming retirement and due to helping with repairs at the garage. This caused Commissioner Linkel to say that he had approval to hire a second garage mechanic. Council President Oglesby was quick to tell him that he had the "wrong impression", because county council did not approve a second mechanic. Commissioner Linkel was told to come back to council with more information.
WHAT LOSS/THEFT AMOUNT TRIGGERS ACTION?
The commissioners had a discussion with the officeholders in the audience about setting a dollar amount for taking action when a loss or theft is discovered. They talked about the possible loss of cash, equipment, gravel or office supplies and mentioned dollar amounts ranging from $20 to $500. Council President Oglesby asked, "Who is accountable if stuff walks away?"
The state requires a new Material Threshold Policy for all organizations receiving tax dollars. No final decisions were made about the county's policy.
SECURITY OF DIRECT DEPOSIT
Some county employees and elected officials are concerned about the security of the county's direct deposit of payroll, according to Commissioner Wilson. He asked Auditor Steve Brack about safeguards against identity theft of social security numbers and personal banking information. Auditor Brack described the precautions taken and said that his office received compliments from State Auditor Suzanne Crouch.
Council President Becky Oglesby said that there is also personal data in old court records.
County Clerk Karla Bauman voiced her concern that personal data for former employees is not destroyed. She also asked whether an overpayment could be deducted from a personal bank account without the employee being notified. She described the devastation caused by entity theft.
Commissioner Tom Linkel said that Jake Linkel of FCN Bank has assured him that direct deposit is as safe as writing a check. Commissioner Linkel said that the county would develop a policy spelling out security measures for personal data. Attorney John Worth will research the issue.
Enforcing a security policy is another issue. Clerk Bauman is not convinced that personal data is safe. She knew an information technology expert who could hack into court cases.
REBID OF EQUIPMENT
In March, the commissioners opened sealed bids for a wheel loader. MH Equipment of Indianapolis had the low bid for a JCB loader with a trade in. After reviewing the bids, Commissioner Linkel said that no manufacturer could meet all of the bid specifications. Commissioner Linkel indicated that he was interested in a John Deere loader offered by Murphy Tractor Equipment and he asked for a rebid.
At this meeting, the commissioners opened new bids for a wheel loader. MH Equipment was still the low bidder with an even lower price of $137,180 for a JCB loader with a trade in. Murphy Tractor & Supply offered a John Deere loader for $145,000 with a trade in. The commissioners took the bids under advisement and will award a contract on May 2.
ANDERSONVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER COULD CLOSE.
POSEY TOWNSHIP "ALMOST BROKE"
Commissioner Wilson said that the Andersonville Community Center could close, if they receive no financial help. Commissioner Roberts read a letter from the Center asking the commissioners for $1,000 to replace three toilets from the original construction in 1990. Council President Oglesby asked about charging rent, holding bake sales or getting money from Posey Township. Commissioner Wilson reported that the township is "almost broke." The commissioners will forward the Center's request to county council.
SECURITY EQUIPMENT
Commissioner Roberts is still checking options for new security equipment at the courthouse. He did get approval to pay $570 to Connersville Mirror Glassworks for tinted glass at the jail.
METAMORA FIREWORKS OKAY
The commissioners signed an indemnity agreement that will allow the Metamora Volunteer Fire Department to purchase and display fireworks.
PUBLIC COMMENT - A FULL ACCOUNTING
Betty Lecher repeated her earlier request for a full accounting of the cost of the new Stockpile Road Bridge completed in 2015. She asked for the information three weeks ago and has not received a reply. She also asked that the Highway Department secretary prepare the data and Commissioner Wilson sign it, because he oversaw the Highway Department in 2015. She said that information previously given to her was wrong.
Commissioner Wilson asked how she knew the data was inaccurate and told her that he did not have to sign a report. He added that state law does not require the county to create a document that does not already exist.
Mrs. Simmermeyer explained that they already received more than one report showing various prices, missing information and a $20,000 difference in the total costs. All three commissioners explained how there could be different prices for gravel and hourly labor rates. Mrs. Simmermeyer continued to ask questions.
Commissioner Wilson said that the Highway Department secretary "should have it more accurate." Later, he indicated that some records are handwritten and are "as accurate as possible." Commissioner Linkel added that the Highway Department is working on better recordkeeping for each project and commented to Mrs. Simmermeyer, "You are wearing me out."
Mrs. Simmermeyer replied, "Our being here has served a purpose." Mrs. Lecher thanked the commissioners for explaining the Highway Department operation.
The commissioners directed Mr. Cooley to meet with Mrs. Lecher and Mrs. Simmermeyer after the meeting about the spreadsheet that he prepared for the cost of Stockpile Bridge.
OTHER BUSINESS
The commissioners approved minutes, payroll and claims for payment. They approved hiring SRI to conduct the annual sale of properties with unpaid property taxes. They appointed Jennifer Profitt to a vacancy on the County Health Board. They told David Bowser that the Metamora Historic District restrictions did not apply to remodeling an indoor bathroom; he was free to make changes.
The next meeting is Monday, May 2, at 10am.
Reported by
Sara Duffy
|
|
Back to the Old Rules
Since January 2011, the public has been allowed to address the county commissioners throughout their meeting by raising a hand and being recognized by one of the commissioners. More public participation was one of former Commissioner Scott McDonough's campaign promises. When he was elected, those in the audience no longer had to wait until the end of the meeting to make a public comment. The public could address the topic at hand. This was very accommodating, because Indiana law does not require any public comment.
On Monday, April 28, Commissioner Wilson announced that he was reverting to the old rules. Questions or comment from the public must wait until the end of the commissioner meetings.
However, Commissioner Wilson did not hold strictly to the new rule. There were still some comments and questions from those in the audience during the meeting, mostly from elected officials.
When asked about the decision to restrict public comments to the end of the meeting, Commissioner Wilson said that comments from the audience were disruptive and County Engineer Ted Cooley couldn't concentrate on his presentation, because of questions from the audience.
Commissioner Wilson said that he asked Commissioner Tom Linkel about making the change and they agreed. No mention was made of consulting Commissioner Eric Roberts.
Several in the audience were against the change. Councilmember Keith Hall asked the commissioners if he would be permitted to participate. Commissioner Wilson initially said, "No." In further discussion, the commissioners agreed that elected officials should be allowed to participate during the meeting, as necessary for county business.
From the audience, Linda Hall commented, "They work for us. We have a right." She noted that county council permits public comment. She wants to change the Indiana open door law to allow for public comments.
Mrs. Simmermeyer read from the Indiana State Constitution's Bill of Rights. She quoted former Congressman Lee Hamilton that government must be accountable to its citizens.
Commissioner Linkel said that Commissioner Wilson wanted to restrict public comments starting six months ago. Commissioner Linkel was against the idea at that time, because he liked "the openness of a meeting" to resolve any issues. Now, Commissioner Linkel agreed that public comments were "completely out of control."
Eight months ago in August 2015, Mildred I. Simmermeyer, Mark Simmermeyer and Betty Lecher began attending the commissioner meetings, asking many questions, requesting county documents and writing letters to the editor.
From the Indiana Public Access Counselor's Handbook on Indiana's Public Access Laws
Question: Do I have the right to speak at an open meeting?
Answer: The Open Door Law (ODL) does not guarantee the right to speak at public meetings. Although an individual has the right to attend and observe all public proceedings, no specific statutory authority allows an individual to appear before and address a governing body. A governing body may choose to provide an opportunity for comments or discussion at any time or may allow a limited number of comments or limited amount of time for comments on matters under consideration. During certain meetings, a provision for public comment may be required by statute.
Reported by
Sara Duffy
|
|
Indiana Bicentennial Barn Quilt Display
Coming to Franklin County is the Indiana Bicentennial Barn Quilt for a special showing at the Brookville Library in May. The Indiana Barn Foundation, Indiana Landmarks and the Indiana State Quilt Guild combined their talents to produce a lasting memory of our heritage in conjunction with the State's Bicentennial. There is a block representing all 92 counties in the state. The Franklin County Quilt Batts organization and White's Sale Barn are sponsoring its display. You can see it at the Brookville Library from May 7 to the 14.
Joanne Koch provided the barn block representing Franklin county. She used the Barn at White's Sale Barn as her inspiration.
The Quilt Batts had hoped to display the quilt at the Franklin County Quilt show, which is May 20 and 21. Unfortunately, the quilt was not available on those dates. The group felt strongly that the quilt should be displayed in this part of the state sometime during the Bicentennial year and arranged for its display in the Library.
Everyone is encouraged to come out and see this wonderful example of our heritage. Many different types of mediums were used but it all came together beautifully in a very colorful quilt.
Submitted by Joyce Gesell |
|
2016 PIANO RECITAL
 L-R: Katrina Murray, Abigail Donaldson, Kelley Kuntz, Daniel Reed, Cody Branscum, Alaina Laird, Kylie Lucas, Kasey Duncan. Not pictured: Natalie McCoy
The evening of Thursday, April 21 Franklin County High School Lew Wallace Auditorium was filled with the sound of piano music. It was the annual FCHS Piano Recital, which featured piano music of Eric Satie, Beethoven, rock band hits, video game music and pieces students arranged themselves. Awards for outstanding piano players: Natalie McCoy and Kelley Kuntz were presented. The piano students were from the Franklin County High School piano laboratory program directed by Mr. Bynum Henson and Mr. Jon Johnson (recordings).
Submitted by Bynum Henson
|
|
A Lasting Remembrance
More and more, when a loved one is lost, it is suggested that contributions be made to "the charity of one's choice." We know this at the Franklin County Community Foundation because many times, we are that "charity of choice". Friends and relatives want to create a remembrance through the support of specific causes that had some meaning to their loved one, creating something lasting.
To do this, they make a contribution to one of the many endowment funds that have been established in the Franklin County Community Foundation. These funds have been created for the purpose of improving Franklin County. Contributions made to these funds are invested and the income earned is used to award grants or scholarships.
Although a loved one has passed, their memory will live on through the contribution. A scholarship will be awarded to a deserving student looking forward to furthering his or her education. A grant will be made to an organization for a beneficial project. That one memorial contribution is not only a tribute to the loved one, but a tribute to the community. It will make an impact forever.
The Franklin County Community Foundation is a nonprofit public charity established in 1998 to serve donors, award grants, and provide leadership to improve Franklin County forever. To obtain more information, contact the FCCF at 765-647-6810 or visit our website at www.franklincountyindiana.com.
Submitted by Shelly Lunsford, Executive Director |
|
Hike 10K in Metamora on May 14th
Whitewater Valley Walkers has scheduled their first 10K hiking event of 2016 for May 14 in Metamora. Participants will walk the Whitewater Canal Trail along the railroad tracks from the Grist Mill in Metamora to the Twin Locks (near Shack Road), and then back to the Metamora start point. The event will begin at 9am. Registration closes at 1pm. Meet at the Indiana State Grist Mill Museum in the center of Metamora, Indiana at 19073 S. Main Street.
The public is invited to participate and learn more about Whitewater Valley Walkers and Volkssport events. Membership in Whitewater Valley Walkers is through membership in the Whitewater Canal Trail not-for-profit, or the specific Whitewater Valley Walkers fee of $10 per person. For information call Denny Fritz at 812 584 2687,
The second Whitewater Valley Walkers event will be a 10K walk on October 2 at Brookville Lake.
Whitewater Canal Trail also maintains shorter sections of the Brookville to Metamora corridor at Yellow Bank Creek, Tecumseh's Landing and the Billy Jean Jobe trail in Brookville - open for public participation.
Submitted by Dennis Fritz
|
|
Calling Sponsors for Family Fun Day
It is that time of year again when Stayin' Alive, Franklin County Local Coordinating Council, gears up for its annual Family Fun Day. Stayin' Alive is requesting your presence at this 16th annual event. Family Fun Day will be held on Memorial Day, May 30, 2016, from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at the Brookville Town Park.
Stayin' Alive strives to provide a safe and healthy community throughout Franklin County. Stayin' Alive invites you to join in our efforts by participating in this free day for families. Come out and enjoy the day and learn about being safe and healthy. Booth participants will be providing crafts, activities and games. There will be fun, food and prizes for all ages.
If your agency or organization would like to host a booth or if you would like more information on Family Fun Day, please contact Stayin' Alive at 765-647-7272 or visit www.stayinalive24.org.
Submitted by Melinda Brown Photo by The Observer |
|
The Circus is Coming to Town
On Sunday, May 1st, the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus will be coming to the Franklin County Fairgrounds for two 90-minute shows. Free Morning Tour and Tent Raising at 9:30am on May 1st. (Time may vary.) Tickets on sale at FCN Bank, Main Source Bank, or the Chamber Office at new location, 18 West 10th Street, Brookville, IN. Open Mon. - Fri. from 9:00am - 3:00pm. See cmcirus.com or go to facebook.com/Culpepper-Merriweather-Circus.
Submitted by Chamber of Commerce, 765-647-3177
|
|
Around the County
You're Invited - Mr. Bynum's Final Concert
The Franklin County High School Jazz Lab and Concert Band will present their spring concert this Thursday, April 28. The concert will start at 7:00pm. This also marks the final high school concert of Mr. Bynum Henson's 45-year career.
Submitted by
Jon Johnson, Band Director
FREE Child Development Class - April 28
The Pregnancy Help Center - Brookville is presenting a class on Thursday, April 28 at 6:30 pm on THE FIRST YEARS: CHILD DEVELOPMENT. All that attend will receive a free gift. Attend five classes and receive a $50 gift certificate or a car seat. Class is free. Free babysitting. If transportation is an issue, please call 765-647-2029.
Submitted by
Lyn Weidner, Client Education Director
State Line Club Plant Sale - April 29 & 30
19th Annual Plant Sale Friday, April 29 from 4-7 PM & Saturday & April 30 from 8-11 AM at the Bath Store in Bath, Indiana. Geraniums, petunias, many annuals and perennials, beautiful baskets and much more! Great gifts for Mother's Day. Proceeds help benefit community horticulture.
Submitted by Linda Rosenberger
Vice President, State Line Country Garden Club
Plant a Tree for Arbor Day - April 29
Franklin County SWCD will be holding the 5th annual Arbor Day tree give away & food drive on Friday, April 29, beginning at 9am. Over 700 seedlings will be available on a 1st come basis at our office. Limit of 5 trees per person. Tree species include: red pine, scarlet oak, white oak, shagbark hickory, tulip tree, black gum, river birch, flowering dogwood and redbud. Please bring canned food items in exchange for the trees. Food will be donated to the Works of Mercy Center & SIEOC food pantry in Brookville.
Submitted by Chris Fox
District Coordinator, FC Soil & Water Conservation District
Acoustic Final Friday - April 29
Open stage held on the last Friday of the month from early spring through October at the Back Porch of Lane's End Barn on Lovers Lane near the Duck Creek Aqueduct. Sign up begins at 6:30pm and the music starts at 7pm. Food is available from the Metamora Lion's Club. During inclement weather, event will move to the MPA Opry Barn, 19189 Pennington Road, Metamora.
Submitted by Metamora Music Car Wash For Special Olympics - April 30 The Student Leadership Advisory Committee is working with Champions Together to raise a minimum of $1,500 for Special Olympics Indiana to buy team uniforms and equipment. Please support our car wash on April 30 from 9-12 at Jim True Ford. Submitted by Todd Sacksteder
Wine Tasting & Pie Auction - April 30
 Saturday, April 30. Doors open 6:30 pm at Third Place, 734 Main Street. Tasting of wines from local wineries and homemade wines starts at 7:00 pm. Pie auction 8:30 pm. Legacy Lane Vineyard, At the Barn Winery and J&J Winery will have their best. Submit two bottles of your own crafted wine with $2 submittal fee prior to the event at Keys to the Past Antiques. Wine judging. Proceeds from the pie auction will be used for Brookville's Celebration of the Indiana Bicentennial Dinner Dance on June 18. Music provided by local Sam Shuck. Advance ticket sales at The Cutting Edge, Rosenbergers Market, Keys to the Past Antiques, and Main Source Bank. $15 per person or $25 per couple.
Submitted by Barbara Vonderheide, Main Street Brookville Inc. Low Cost Vaccination Clinic - April 30 The Humane Society's Low Cost Vaccination Clinic for dogs and cats: April 30, 1pm - 3pm at the Fairgrounds in Brookville, IN 47012. All vaccines are $12, except $15 for canine Bordatella (kennel cough). Microchip $20. Flea/tick prevention based on weight of pet. Cash or credit card accepted. Dogs must be on leash. Cats must be in carriers. Call 765-647-1444. Submitted by Teresa Miller
Train Rides Start April 30
On Saturday April 30th, the non-profit Whitewater Valley Railroad will open its 43 season of historic train operations in Connersville and Metamora Indiana. This year will begin with a special excursion to Metamora that will consist of 5 restored wooden cabooses in honor of the late Bruce Bowden of Connersville, Indiana. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Whitewater Valley Railroad at 765-825-2054 or by visiting www.whitewatervalleyrr.org.
Submitted by
William W Gray, Publicity Officer
Lusitania: 101 Years Under the Waves - May 5
At 6:00pm, the Brookville library will host a program about the sinking of this British ocean liner by a German U-boat torpedo on May 7, 1915, which changed the course of history. This event, with an overwhelming loss of civilian lives, helped spur America's involvement in the Great War. The passenger list even included a businessman from Seymour, Indiana. Please join us for this informative program.
Submitted by
Franklin County Public Library
Property Tax Bills Due May 10
The Franklin County tax bills were mailed with a "Spring A" coupon and "Fall B" coupon on March 24. Office Hours - 8:30am to Noon and 1:00pm to 4:00pm Monday through Friday. Payments can be mailed, dropped at our office, or dropped in the steel drop box at the north entrance (parking lot door). Tax deadlines are May 10, 2016 and November 10, 2016. If you no longer escrow or do not receive your bill by April 15th, please contact the Treasurer's Office at treasurer@franklincounty.in.gov or 765-647-5121.
Submitted by
Veronica Voelker, Franklin County Treasurer
Rummage/Bake Sale - May 11
There will be a rummage and bake sale on May 11 from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Brookville. Sponsored by the Guardian Angels Preservation Organization.
Submitted by
Linda Sintz
Women's Day of Health - May 12
Celebrate Women's Day of Health at the Brookville Public Library on Tuesday, May 12th from 9 am to 1 pm. The keynote speaker is Jen Balka, RN with Fayette Regional Pain Management Center, speaking on "Pain Management for the Mature Woman." Enjoy free lunch, dessert, door prizes, goodie bags. Free tests and screenings: Blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, bone density, hand massages and salon demos. Mammograms by appointment.
Submitted by
Brookville Library 765- 647-4031
Athletic Hall of Fame Ceremony - May 13
The Franklin County High School Senior Athletic Awards and Hall of Fame Banquet will be held on Friday, May 13. The dinner will be served at 6:00 pm for the athletes, Hall of Fame Inductees, and their immediate family in the cafeteria. At 7pm, the public is invited to attend the ceremony to the auditorium. The following former athletes and coach are being inducted into the Hall of Fame: Whitney Gillman, Marisa Mears (Wilhelm), BJ Scott, Todd Sacksteder, and coach George Smith.
Submitted by
Franklin County High School
FCHS Horticulture Plant Sale - May 13
When: Friday, May 13th, 4pm-6pm. Where: Franklin County High School Ag Shop (at the back of the school). Tomatoes, peppers, marigolds, houseplants and more.
Submitted by
Katie Schneider, Ag Teacher & FFA Advisor
AGstravaganza - May 13
Franklin County Agriculture Education and FFA will be hosting the 1st Annual AGstravaganza event on Friday, May 13, at the Franklin Count High School Ag Shop. The public is invited to attend from 4:00 - 6:00 PM. Over 20 educational demonstrations and activities are planned by FCHS Ag Students/FFA members, Ag Organizations, and Ag Businesses to teach all ages about various aspects of Agriculture.
Submitted by
Katie Schneider, Agriculture Teacher & FFA Advisor
Towpath 5K/10K Fun Run Walk - May 14
Experience the rich history and breathtaking beauty of the Whitewater Valley during this 5K and 10K event in Metamora, Indiana on May 14 at 8 a.m. All ages are invited to pre-register or sign up the day of the event. Cost $25. Online registration add $2.50. Includes a t-shirt if received by April 25. In conjunction with the Whitewater Canal State Historic Site and Whitewater Canal, Inc. For details, contact Anne Fairchild at afairchild@indianamuseum.org or 812-273-4531. Event website: whitewatercanaltrail.com.
Submitted by
Shirley Lamb, Whitewater Canal Trail
2016 Franklin County Quilt Show
May 20, 2016 from 10am to 7pm and May 21, 2016 from 10am to 5pm at the Old Brookville High School Gym, 1010 Franklin Avenue. Quilts, Vendors, Food. Miniature Quilt Challenge. Admission $5. Applications to submit a quilt are on Quilt Batts of Franklin County Indiana or call 765-647-6360
Submitted by
Dotti Roleson, Quilt Batts
Mt. Carmel School Yard Sale - May 21
A.P.P.L.E.S will hold Yard Sale/Vendor Sale Fundraiser on Saturday, May 21, 9am-1pm at 6178 Johnson Ford Road, Cedar Grove, IN 47016. Booth rental costs vary $10 - $25. Rain or Shine. Will be held outside, weather permitting. Concessions available. Truck at 1:30 for any donations. Contact Chelsea Stenger at cstenger@fccsc.k12.in.us to rent space. Make check payable to MCS APPLES to the school by May 13th. Information and form is also available at: https://www.facebook.com/MCSYardVendorSale/
Submitted by
Tiffany Stenger, A.P.P.L.E.S
1st "Mutt Strut 2K Walk & Social"- May 21
The first annual "Mutt Strut 2k Walk & Social will be held on Saturday, May 21, at Franklin County Town Park, Brookville, Indiana. Check-in and on-site registration begins at 9:00am. Walk begins at 10am and Social will follow until 1pm. Dogs are encouraged and welcomed to participate in the 2K Walk and Social as long as they are leashed at all times, current on vaccines, and have EXCELLENT temperament with other dogs and children. Strollers are welcomed. This is a family-focused, pet-focused event. For more information, go to www.bearandfriends.net.
Submitted by Terri Parker & Michelle Roberts-Schneider, M.A.Ed, Bear & Friends Animal Society
|
We hope you enjoyed this issue of the Franklin County Observer. We strive to provide you with accurate reporting of the news that is important to the Franklin County community. So send us your comments, and send us information about the news and events that you would like us to cover.
Also, check out the links below:
- You can go to the "Archive" to see past issues
- The "Forward email" link helps spread the word about the Observer
- The "Join Our Mailing List!" link sends the Observer directly to you.
The Franklin County Observer
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
