Lots of Lights to see in Greentown Area

For the second year, the Greentown Lions are providing a Christmas light display at the Pioneer Village in the fairgrounds.  Several businesses and individuals, as well as members of the Lions Club, spent many hours setting up the displays.  An added attraction this year is the Round Barn.  The lights in the Village will be on beginning at 6 p.m. each evening through Christmas Day.  The Round Barn will be open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.  Santa will be in the barn on those nights from 7 to 8:30 p.m. If any church group or other group would like to come out and sing Christmas Carols at the Round Barn, they may contact Deborah Winger at 765-669-0444.
    Visitors should enter the fairgrounds from the Payton Street entrance near the Lions Pavilion. Donations will be accepted but are not required. 
    While in the area, check out the light displays at the residences of Jim and Irene Hartley, 334 N. Green St. and Roger and Joyce Higginbottom, 519 W. Walnut St.  The hanging lights down Main Street are courtesy of Greentown Main Street Association and installed by the Greentown Volunteer Fire Co.  Just a short drive into the county will take you to the home of Sherry Hord, 1259 N 750 E.  Sherry has an entire acre decorated with a nativity, a pond with skaters, decorated trees with packages, snowmen, and lighted deer.
   

Town Re-evaluates Sewage Rates

           After the construction bids for the planned upgrade to Greentown’s wastewater treatment plant were opened, the preliminary rate figures had to be reworked.  The projected costs prepared by the consulting engineers, Wessler Engineering, were $5,275,000 for construction and contingencies and $1,094,089 for non-construction costs, which totaled $6,369,089.  Non construction costs include engineering and legal services.    The bids received ranged from $5,146,000 to $6,346,000. Council president, Joyce Higginbottom, explains the increase in bids over original estimates as the result of an increase in similar projects.  More cities and towns are doing similar projects, so the companies are not pressed to bid as low as previously.  The original estimates were collected during a low point in the economy and companies were needing more work.  The cost of materials has also increased.     The accounting firm, H. J. Umbaugh, revised the sewage rates necessary to pay for the project with a 20 year bond.  Sewage rates are calculated on the amount of water usage.  Currently households with a 5/8 - 3/4 inch water line pay a base charge of $6.79 per month plus $18.50 per 1,000 gallons.  Those who have wells and only use the town sewage system pay a flat rate of $49.97.  The proposed rates are a base charge of $12.29 and $33.50 per 1,000 gallons.  Unmetered customers will pay $90.45 per month.  The new rates result in an 81% raise.  Similar increases will apply to customers using larger water lines. The recently passed $10.00 trash pick-up fee and $1.00 storm water fee will remain the same, as well as water rates.
    The proposed rates were introduced in the form of an ordinance at a meeting of the Town Council on Nov. 13, 2012.  A public hearing will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Dec. 4, in the Greentown Town Hall. 
    The project will be financed with a bond.

"Frankenstorm" by Sea

                        By Kathy Sparling
Former Greentown residents, Tony and Kim Kinney, current residents Mark and Tami Lantz, and my husband Kevin and I left Cape Liberty in Bayonne, New Jersey on the cruise ship Explorer of the Seas on Sunday, October 28 at 4:00.  The port closed just 2 hours later in anticipation of Hurricane Sandy's arrival. 
   Our ship headed south into the storm!  The captain explained that we would have the wind at our back and, although it would still be quite uncomfortable, it would be the safest.  He stated several times that this storm was a bad one and he had sailed on ships for 51 years.  We had very little time on the decks before the crew cleared them and closed all the doors because the winds and waves from the storm were so bad.
  During the first evening of the cruise, there were many people battling seasickness—and not just the passengers!  The waiter at our table was quite sick.  The crew was kept busy cleaning up after the unfortunate ones.  There was an impressive line at the service desk to get free medicine, and barf bag dispensers were hung on all the staircases.
   The worst part came between 4 and 8 a.m. on Monday when the ship passed just 130 miles from the center of the storm.  The seas were extremely rough and we were frightened.  In fact, Tami tried to sleep in her life jacket for 4 hours!
   By mid-morning,

Tom Moor - 18 Gallon Donor

Tom Moor first donated blood when he was in the Navy.  He then donated when there were blood drives at Delco.  He now is a regular at the Red Cross Blood Drive, held every two months, at the Greentown Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.  Tom recently received a pin for reaching the 18 gallon donation mark.  Tom says he gives because “It’s needed.”  Susie Weaver, Kokomo District Manager for the Red Cross, explains that each donation can save 3 lives.  There is a constant need, due to accidents, surgeries, and cancer patients. 
    Ginny Jones is another person who knows the value of having a dependable blood supply.  Her husband was given 83 pints of blood in connection with his liver transplant.  She has  been a regular donor and has donated seven gallons so far.  Because of her commitment, she is the coordinator between the church and the Red Cross for the blood drives.
    The next visit of the Bloodmobile to the Greentown site will be Dec. 17.  Call 1-800-773-2767 to schedule a donation or just drop in between 1:00 and 6:00.

Sewage Rates to be Raised

  With the planned upgrade to Greentown’s wastewater treatment plant, sewage rates will undoubtedly go up.  The 5.5 million dollar project will be financed with a bond issue at 2% for 20 years.  If it qualifies as a green project, there will be a reduction in the interest rate.  Doug Baldessari and Brittany Dollar of H.J. Umbaugh and Associates, Certified Public Accountants, were at the October 2 Town Council meeting to present their preliminary findings on a rate study.  Their study shows a needed rate increase of up to 35%, with the statement that the rate may be revised when the bids come in.  Construction bids were opened on October 9, ranging from $5,146,000 to $6,346,000.  These were taken under advisement to be considered at the November 6 Council meeting.
   The state put Greentown on a ban which does not allow new sewer hookups.  This ban is due in part to excessive by-passes which allow raw sewage to enter Wildcat Creek.  Council president, Joyce Higginbottom, says, “The current plant is too small for our current or any future needs and will not handle heavy wet weather events, which are the main reason for a by-pass.” Council member, Scott Deyoe, wanted it made clear that wastewater and water services are not funded by tax dollars but by the users. 
   The Council voted to pay Umbaugh and Associates not over $30,000 for doing the rate study.

iPads at School

iPads Abound
by Todd Ream
   When I went away to college, my parents announced anything I took with me was going to have to fit into my car.  Since I was never a slave to fashion, my clothes did not take up much room.  Any books I needed I would just buy once I got to campus.  However, this relatively new invention called the personal computer took up a considerable amount of space.  The futuristic monochrome monitor and sleek, dot-matrix printer easily weighed enough to make me wonder if I needed to pull into some of the truck weigh stations on the interstate.  All that just so I could type and print my papers, as even the internet had yet to emerge.   
   This fall, children in grades K-8 at Eastern received a device that weighs a fraction of my first personal computer and is small enough that it can fit in almost any backpack (most students in the high school received comparable devices known as netbooks).  This one-to-one iPad initiative, an effort garnering local, state, and nationwide acclaim, is arguably the first of its kind.  The essence of it is that each child was issued one of these devices in order to aid in their educational efforts both at home and at school.  Some schools make these devices available in the classroom and Eastern had taken that approach for a couple of years.  However, now each child can use this device in any number of locations.
   With internet capability and high resolution screens, iPads can be used to support a host of initiatives from helping with research for science projects to shooting short documentaries.  At a recent meeting of the Parent Advisory Committee, Eastern Elementary Principal Randy Maurer highlighted that iPads are even allowing for individualized instruction for students, such as reading assignments that match with each student’s current reading level. 
  Eastern Superintendent, Tracy Caddell, noted, “We are excited to see the positive feedback from parents, guardians, and other stakeholders concerning our one-to-one program with iPads and netbooks.”
   Of course, students have also figured out that such devices can be utilized for a variety of purposes.  The same iPad that can be used to make a documentary for science class can also be used to make a host of films starring any number of actors including family pets.  Rumor has it that video footage of a previously unknown schnauzer that roams several acres on 100 N has now gone viral in Azerbaijan.
  On a more serious note, Tracy Caddell also recently warned parents that “Unfortunately, we cannot fully control all aspects of internet access from sites other than our own. We highly recommend that the parent supervise and control internet use while the student is away from school to prevent them from reaching inappropriate content. Should you have concerns with how your student uses their device or the content they can reach, please contact us immediately.”
   While our children will have more room in their cars when they leave for college for the latest fashion accessories, the introduction of new forms of instructional technology comes with both benefits and challenges.  Remembering technology is a means and not an end, such devices are designed to reinforce and individualize what is best about the educational experience—not expose students to the worst dimensions of the human experiment.  Failure to respect those parameters compromises what is ultimately a step into the future of education.  We may very well all have a role to play in this new world where devices such as iPads abound.   
   Todd and his family live in Greentown. He has two daughters who attend Eastern Elementary School where he serves as a regular volunteer.  He also teaches at Indiana Wesleyan.   

New Business in Greentown

                                         Hearth Shop Opens in Greentown                                             

                                                                                                                photo by Rachel Jenkins
Members of Greentown Main Street Association and Schlemmer Brothers Hearth & Home
participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday, Sept. 21 to mark the Grand Opening of the
business at 100 W. Main St.  Left to right are Lisa Stout, Jay Freeman, Ron Simpson, Neil Clifton,
retail manager; Kent Henderson, owner; Dennis Kochenour - installer, Julie Henderson, owner;
Eric Haupert, sales associate; Tom Haneline, installer; Stephanie Hulce, Jodi Cecil, and Mary Miller.

   Schlemmer Brothers Hearth & Home has opened their store at 100 W Main Street, on the NW corner of the main intersection in town.  The business sells fireplaces, stoves, and inserts.  The store has on display gas, wood, pellet and coal units.  They are a full service dealer and sell, install & service all of their products.  The owner, Kent Henderson, is the fourth generation in the family owned company.  The original store is in downtown Wabash. 
   Hours are Monday - Friday 9 a.m. -5 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
  

Lincoln-Douglas Debates

Students to Recreate Portions
of Lincoln - Douglas Debates
   While most people know the name “Lincoln-Douglas Debates,” it’s fair to say that many don’t know a lot about them.  In fact, it’s a common misconception that the debates were Presidential debates.  While Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas did oppose each other in the four-way contested presidential election of 1860, their famous debates occurred two years prior when Lincoln challenged incumbent Senator Douglas in his Illinois re-election bid.
   There were seven debates (one in each of Illinois’ seven congressional districts) with each one lasting several hours – much different than the media-driven versions we see today.  By challenging the nationally known Douglas to defend his slavery policy of popular sovereignty (letting the individual territories decide for themselves), with his dry wit and self-deprecating humor, the relatively unknown Abraham Lincoln became a household name.
   Four Eastern High School students, Riley Smith, Sarah Wagner, Josh Keith, and Jonah Evans, will perform select portions of the famous exchanges at the Greentown Historical Society, 103 E. Main Street, on Sunday, October 21, at 2:00 p.m. The students are enrolled in the AP Government and Politics class taught by Peter Heck. 
   The free program is open to the public.  The facility is handicap accessible.
   The presentation will be repeated at the annual meeting of the Greentown Historical Society, which will be Thursday, November 1, 2012, 6:00 p.m. at the Community Building at the Howard County Fairgrounds.  The cost of the catered meal is $15.00.  Call Karen Swan, 765-628-3565, for reservations by October 25.
 

Pumpkins

Nothing Says October 

 Quite Like Pumpkins

                                                                                          
                                                                                                                    photo by Rachel Jenkins
   During the past few days, a field on SR 22 west of Greentown has revealed a large crop of pumpkins, turning the previous green cover to rows of bright orange pumpkins.  The producer is Ladd Farms, Inc. of Peru, IN. 
                                                                          






                                                                                                                   

Township Consolidation

Advantages Seen to Consolidation
   The trustees of Jackson, Liberty, and Union Townships, as well as some board members, addressed the question which will be on the ballot in all three townships.  That question will ask for a “yes” or “no” on whether the three townships shall be reorganized (consolidated) into one political unit.  This coincides with the Eastern School District.  The meeting was held September 13 at the Greentown Public Library and conducted by the League of Women Voters of Howard County Area.  Greg Kingseed, Trustee of Jackson Township; Linda Grove, Trustee of Liberty Township; and Steve Carpenter, Trustee of Union Township, answered questions from the League and from the audience.     Assistance in the way of utilities, rent, medication, and food account for most of their time spent on official duties, as well as record keeping.  Other duties are providing fire protection, care of abandoned cemeteries, and funeral costs and burials.  The trustees met and composed a proposed budget for the combined area and estimate a 14% decrease in expense.  Instead of three trustees and 7 to 9 board members, all drawing a salary, there would be one trustee and three board members.  The trustees may also employ a clerk and an investigator. 
   All three current trustees favor consolidation.  Kingseed stated that the Kernan-Shepherd Report recommended in 2007 the elimination of the 1,008 townships in Indiana.  He says this plan of consolidating by school district maintains some level of local control while meeting a goal of more efficiency. 
   A similar meeting was held at Northwestern High School on Sept. 20.  Another meeting will be held at the Greentown Public Library at 6:00 p.m. on October 11 for those who could not attend the first and for those who might have more questions.  A second meeting is planned at Northwestern on October 18, also at 6:00 p.m.  
   Scott Deyoe, who attended the first Greentown meeting, expressed his hope that people will become informed about the issue.  He said, “If you are ambivalent or haven’t become informed, it is better that you don’t mark the ballot on that question.  Let those who have an opinion and have researched the issue determine the outcome.”  

Candidate for Governor

Candidate for Governor has Greentown Connection
   Greentown may seem like a small town to some, but for young John Gregg, it was considerably larger than his hometown, Sandborn, Indiana.  Sandborn is in Knox County and had 547 residents in the 1960 census.  By comparison, Greentown had 1,266 residents in 1960. 
   During the summer and on other occasions John would accompany his mother and brothers, and occasionally their father, to Greentown to visit “Aunt Mabe.”  Aunt Mabe was Maybelle Mahon, his great-aunt on his mother’s side.  Maybelle and her husband Ben lived on West Walnut Street in the home now owned and occupied by Joe and June Mason. John remembers that the neighbors on that block were Ross and Faith Wyrick and Don and Deloris Maple.
   The Mahons were active in the community.  Maybelle was a teacher in Eastern Elementary School in 3rd grade and then in the 2nd grade.  She taught a Sunday School class at the Methodist Church and was a member of a church circle.  She also was in the Research Club and was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. She often opened her home for meetings.       Ben was a partner in the Kahl and Mahon Construction Company, bridge contractors.  He served on the Greentown Town Board 1964-1968 and was a director of the Greentown Lions Club.  The Mahons passed away in 1972 and 1973 and are buried in the Sandborn Cemetery.  With the Mahons gone, there were few visits to Greentown; however, John’s mother kept in touch with a special Greentown friend, Vetta Pickett, as long as Vetta lived
    John says his annual visits to Greentown began in infancy and continued until he was about 20 years old.  The visits were usually one week in length until the boys’ summer jobs dictated shorter trips.  They always planned the visits to coincide with the county fair, which John remembers as being “a great fair.”  While in town, he would get his hair cut at a local barber shop and remembers it cost 75 cents.  He was impressed with Mast Furniture Store.  He is well aware of Greentown glass and one of his brothers is a collector.  The family would attend church services at the Greentown Methodist Church.  As was the custom, Aunt Mabe would ask her visitors to stand and be introduced and she would brag on each.  Typical of a teenager, John found this embarrassing. 

  One special trip the Greggs made to Greentown was to check on the Mahons after the 1965 Palm Sunday tornado.  John remembers that it was a couple days before the roads were cleared and they were allowed into town.  John continued his visits to Aunt Mabe even when he was a college student, first at Vincennes University and then IU Bloomington.  He would often travel to Greentown during Christmas break. 
   A current Greentown area resident also has a connection with the Gregg family.  Local dentist, Bill Begeman, also grew up in Sandborn.  His mother taught the young John Gregg in school and was a friend of John’s mother.  John later became the family attorney to the Begemans. 
   John Gregg is running for the position of Governor of Indiana.  

Not Your Father's School Lunch

                                    Jody Alexander cuts bread while using the new safety glove. 

 Leonida Thomas and Linda Hamilton place fresh grapes and broccoli in the serving line.

                                          Pam Anderson places freshly baked pizzas in the new warmer

    With the start of the 2012-2013 school year, both Eastern school cafeterias saw some changes.  Prompted by the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act and the first set of major changes in school meals initiated by the USDA in 15 years, the goal is to raise a healthier generation of children.  Although its ranking has improved in recent years,
Indiana currently has the unenviable position of 21st in the nation in overall prevalence of children who are overweight or obese.  The health ramifications of obesity have been well documented, with greater risk of diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers.  This leads to more medical costs, absenteeism and loss of productivity. 

  The new guidelines emphasize calorie control while providing a well-balanced menu.  A comparison of the former guidelines and the new ones quickly shows this is not your father’s school lunch. More fruits and vegetables with weekly requirements of vegetable subgroups, more whole grains, and no trans fats now
predominate.  Changes the children immediately noticed are more choices, two entrees each day and a salad containing a meat.  While students can no longer ask for seconds of the entrees, they can have as much as they like of fresh fruits and vegetables. 
   Eastern School Corporation hired Sodexo, Inc. to help them meet the new standards.  This followed several months of study and visitation to schools by a committee chaired by Assistant Principal, Lindsey Brown, school board members, and the cafeteria managers, Cheryl Cain at the high school, and Linda Hamilton at the elementary school. Sodexo can get better prices because of their large purchasing power but the cafeteria managers still order the food from the same suppliers they have been using.  Sodexo employs a part time director, Beverly Goza-Holmes, who helps keep track of inventory, plans the menus, and does training including new food safety and personnel safety procedures.   (One obvious safety measure is the wearing of a bright orange glove on the opposite hand when using a knife.)  Sodexo is paid by the school on a fee- per-tray basis and the company guarantees a profit for the school.  Mrs. Brown emphasized that the cafeteria is not a money making source.  Any profit, however, might be used to increase salaries and benefits or might be transferred to the General Fund to offset utilities assumed used by the cafeteria.
   Visitors to the cafeterias will immediately notice the brighter colors of the walls, the graphics of healthy food items, and some new equipment.  One particularly popular piece of equipment is the pizza warmer at the high school.  Visitors will also notice the uniforms of the cafeteria workers.  They all now wear black slacks, white polo shirts with the school logo, and green aprons.  
   Mrs. Brown emphasized that the change is not a reflection of the Eastern cafeteria workers.  She said they were experts in what they did but now have a partner to help them be even more safe and efficient.  The school corporation has also guaranteed that Eastern cafeteria employees are secure in their jobs as long as they wish. 
   Feedback from the students has been positive. Danielle Reed, Sophomore, says, "I like (the new lunches) because I eat healthy anyways. My favorite part is the deli bar because you have more options. Certain options are there everyday!"  Sarah Sharp, Sophomore, comments, "I like the school lunch this year because it's food I eat at home, but a lot healthier." She gave an example of the school pizza being tasty but having a whole grain crust unlike typical takeout pizza.  Stephanie Millspaugh, 8th grader, stated, "We have so many more choices now!" Ricky Sample-Ward, a 5th Grader, reports his reaction to the changes in the Elementary lunch service “It's better now because we can choose the food we want instead of having something on our tray that we won't eat.  I always like my lunch this year because it's fun and there's good food.”

  When former students gather at reunions, the topic of conversations about memories might include teachers, sports, clothing, cars, and pranks.  But seldom do they reminisce about the food in the cafeteria.  This may be because they took it for granted or because they had other things on their minds while in line and eating.  We asked some alumni to share information about their school lunch experiences:
 
 Kent McQuiston, EHS class of 1961, ate in the cafeteria 4 days a week for 25 cents a day.  One day a week his dad would give him an extra dime and he would go uptown to the Hamburger Inn, where he could get a hamburger and fries for 35 cents.  A couple years he washed dishes at school for an hour and got his lunch free.  He didn’t like spinach or harvard beets.  Mrs. Doty, who was in charge of the cafeteria in grade school decided one day he was going to eat his spinach.  He said he didn’t eat spinach at home and wasn’t going to eat it at school.  He finally won and she let him leave.
   
 Neal Wilson, class of 1956, ate at the cafeteria most of the time for 25 cents.  He remembers it was really good and seemed home cooked.  He says, “There was a "hot open beef" sandwich dish that I have never been able to duplicate and it was the tops. The ladies (cooks) were friendly, kind and nurturing. I have been convinced over the years that good food depends on the artist at the stove - those ladies in my elementary years were quite good. In high school, I, as did many classmates, relished flying out the door, running hard through the gravel parking lot, up town to the Comet Grill for a Hot Dog, French Fries and Soda all for 20 cents with a nickel left over for a candy bar. I know that nutritionists everywhere will cringe at that meal. However, it was that release of pent up energy and challenge of racing Merrill Shock to the grill that made it more than worthwhile. It wasn't just lunch, it was an adventure.”   When he carried his lunch from home it was wrapped in newspaper, tied with a string. Sandwiches were wrapped in wax paper.     

 Sally Duke, class of 1982, remembers that in elementary the lunch lady would give you an extra bread & butter or peanut butter sandwich if you ate everything on your plate.  “If there was something I did not like, I would stuff it inside my empty chocolate milk carton so I could still get the extra sandwich.”  She liked the pizza burgers, the chicken & noodles, and the creamed rice.  She also liked the fish sticks they served every Friday.  By the 1980's a grade A lunch cost 55 cents and came with white or chocolate milk.
 
 Sally Nicholson, student at Jackson, Union, and Eastern, and then teacher at Eastern, especially liked chicken and noodles and mashed potatoes as a child.  As a teacher, she appreciated the salad bar with the variety of fresh vegetables and fruits.

  It will be interesting to hear what memories today’s students have of their cafeteria experiences when they meet at reunions 20-30 years from now.    

Bandstand Repeats at State Fair

                                                                                                                                  photo provided
  Quartet members, Justin Colwell, Quinn Connolly, Logan Colwell, and Josh Evenson

 
 The “Bandstand” barbershop quartet took top honors in the Indiana State Fair Youth Talent Competition Vocal and Instrumental Contest for the second year in a row.  This year’s competition included a total of 60 acts divided among the categories of Female Vocal Solo, Male Vocal Solo, Instrumental Solo, Instrumental Group and Vocal Groups.  Bandstand placed first in the Vocal Group category and was then chosen over the winners in the other 4 categories as the overall best act.
   This year saw the return of founding member and bass singer Quinn Connolly to the group.  Quinn, the son of Joe and Leslie Connolly, was not available for the contest last summer.   Last year’s bass singer, Josh Evenson, son of Phil and Stacy Evenson, moved into the role of baritone.  The quartet was completed by founding member and lead, Justin Colwell, and tenor, Logan Colwell, the sons of Bill and Jill Colwell.
   The quartet competed this year with “Sold”, a fast-paced country tune that Justin and Quinn learned while attending the Harmony Explosion Camp on the campus of Indiana Wesleyan University in June; the camp was presented by the Cardinal District of the Barbershop Harmony Society. On their road to the state fair, the group received coaching from Phil Griggs, a member of “Rip Chord” quartet and the Kokomo Men of Note.
   Due to an unfortunate scheduling conflict, “Bandstand” will be not be performing at Music at the Fountain on Sept. 13.  Another local quartet, “Dime Store Four” will be performing.

“Greentown on the Ballot”

   A new exhibit has opened at the Greentown Historical Society, 103 E. Main Street.  It  features information about Greentown area people who have run for political office or been involved in government on several levels.  There will be items from the personal collection of Bob McCann, who was on the election and re-election committees for several presidents, and worked from the White House during the terms of Presidents Nixon, Ford and Reagan.  There are also several interesting photographs and memorabilia involving presidents from Lincoln to Obama.     The exhibit will run through November 25. 
   A traveling exhibit from the Indiana Historical Society is in place until Sept. 10.   This exhibit, named “Faces in the Crowd; Indiana and the Political Process,” is not the story of the candidates behind the microphone, but the individual citizens in the crowd – each of whom play a crucial role in ensuring the electoral process works. 
    A series of presentations will supplement the exhibit.  On Saturday, August 18, at 2:00 p.m., Bob McCann’s presentation, “From Greentown to the White House,” will include highlights of his 35 years of White House and Capitol Hill experiences.  The program will be at the History Center, 103 E. Main Street.
  On October 21, Eastern High School students will give a background of the Lincoln-Douglas debates and recreate portions.  This program will also be at 2:00 at the History Center.
   November 1 will be the annual meeting and dinner of the Greentown Historical Society.  The time and place will be announced later.  At this meeting, attendees will enjoy some political campaign songs through the years and there will be a reprise of the Lincoln-Douglas presentation.
   Alan Zirkle, who was a member of the Indiana Legislature, will speak about his experiences on Saturday, November 3, at 2:00 p.m. at the History Center.
   The History Center is open Saturdays and Mondays 1 to 4 and Sundays 2 to 4.  Admission is free and the facility is handicap accessible.

Barber to Six Generations of Murphys
  

                                                    Photo by Rachel Jenkins

Don Wisher, on left, and Michael Murphy try to convince Madilynn Murphy to allow her bangs to
be cut.  With encouragement from other family members, the operation was completed.

   Two year old Madilynn Murphy became the sixth generation of the Murphy family to get a haircut by Don Wisher, local barber.  She sat on her father’s lap for a trim of her bangs and let it be known that she wasn’t sure she liked the whole idea. 
   Don started barbering August 3, 1960.  After two years in the Army, he opened a barber shop in Windfall in 1964.  He moved the business to Greentown in 1966 with a shop on South Meridian Street.  In 2001 he moved again, this time to a remodeled portion of his garage at his home. 
   The first Murphy who was his customer was Otto Murphy in 1964.  Then followed, in succession, Dayrell, Gene, Dan, and Michael.  Madilynn is Michael’s daughter.

  Community Garden Doing Well
by Anita French, Community Garden Chairman

                                  Photo by Rachel Jenkins
  Tom Driver, a regular volunteer at the Community Garden,
                does so to “give back to the community.”

   The Greentown Community Garden is thriving again this year despite the hot weather and no rain. The season started out great with 19 volunteers, but has dropped off to around 7 regulars. The biggest thrill is seeing our young volunteers come out to help. We have a young man named Tom Driver an Eastern student, who has been a regular for several weeks. He is a great help, and lets us know there is a future Community Garden leader. Everyone is welcome to come and volunteer at the garden.  We work every Wednesday 9:00 am to 11:00 am, and again in the evening at 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. A total of 287 volunteer hours have been logged as of 8-1-2012.
  As of this date we have also harvested a total of 887.75 pounds of produce, including  head lettuce, broccoli, squash, cabbage, cucumbers, onions and a few potatoes. We have lost some plants due to the stress of the heat and lack of water. We hand carry water to each plant, but sometimes it just isn't enough.
  I would like to thank Scott Tracey, a volunteer fireman,  for coming to our rescue a couple times to spray the garden down with much needed water.
  The Greentown Community Garden sent out sponsorship letters a few weeks ago, asking for a yearly sponsorship of $25 per year for our garden. This money will be used for tools, equipment, seed, fertilizer and to sustain the garden in years to come.  All sponsors’ names will be painted on our shed. We would like to thank First Farmers Bank and Trust, Flook's Automotive Napa, New Life Assembly of God, American Legion Post#317, Subway, Century Villa Health Care, Century Fields Retirement Community, Sharon’s Beauty Shop, and Master Creations Jewelry for sending in their sponsorships. If we missed anyone that would like to be a sponsor, please contact Anita French at 765-431-8376.
  With great plans in the works, the garden is gonna keep growing stronger.  We just need your help (a little rain would not hurt too.).

Flashbacks from Howard County News

August 1952

Around the Town Pump

   Looking at the proceedings going on down at the Memorial Park and Eastern High School grounds from a women's angle, brings one such woman to a single conclusion!  The displays to be viewed at the 1952 Howard County 4-H Fair, are enough to make many a hard-working housewife drool with envy!
   Comfort in the home is no longer an item of the future.  It's here!  Gleaming white appliances for saving time and labor, fill the largest of the display tents---electric stoves, washers, hot water heaters, refrigerators, ironers and the latest of appliances, the deep freeze.
   For color in the modern home, the housewife may view luxurious carpets, colorful linoleum tile, cool-looking awnings, and heating units that look like another attractive piece of furniture instead of the old-fashioned, much abhorred heating stove.
   The variation of models and makes in the latest of that home entertainment feature, the TV set, speaks well for the steady improvements being made in this field.  Yes, the home-maker can find plenty over which to drool at the merchandise display exhibits.

Average Income Rate Reaches $1,678 Level

   The Commerce Department has reported that the average income in the United States reached a $1,678 annual level in May.  That is, if the rate of personal income continues all year at the May level, the average income will be $1,678 a year.

August 1972

Misses McGuire, Land Win First Places At Indiana State Fair

   Pam McGuire, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Paul McGuire, and Ellen Land, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Land, Kokomo, Rt.4, placed first in senior duets twirling contest at the Indiana State Fair.
   Ellen also placed first in 15 year old advanced strutting.
   The girls recently enjoyed a week in Buffalo, N.Y. attending United States Twirling Association Grand National.  Ellen placed 8th in 15 year old strutting competition in a group of 31 contestants.
   Additional award winners at the Indiana State Fair have been - 4-H Dress Revue - Dress-up Outfits, Janet Howell Rt.2 Greentown, blue ribbon; Foods VI Choice of a baked product, Cindy Bolinger, Rt.1 Greentown; Swine, Pure-bred market Barrow class, single barrow, 211-240 lbs. Tom Howell and family.

Dedaker Named Eastern Assistant Football Coach

   Robert Dedaker, a 1968 graduate of Eastern's biggest MIC rival, Oak Hill High School, will be helping guide the Comets' football fortunes next season.
   Dedaker, who graduated from DePauw University, Greencastle, in May of this year, was hired at a recent meeting of the Eastern School Board to fill the vacancy created when Willard Rice was named head coach of the Eastern gridiron squad.
   Dedaker holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in physical education and social studies and is attending classes at Indiana State University, Terre Haute, this summer.
   He participated in college baseball for four years and football for two years at DePauw.  His younger brother, Gary, was a member of the 1971 Oak Hill basketball sectional and regional championship team.

Greentown Gems

   OVERSIZE VEGETABLE
 Mrs. Eli Harvey brought in a head of cabbage weighing 20 pounds, and it was almost more than she could reach around.  The cabbage was grown by Enos Harvey of near Marion.
*****
   HOW'S THIS FOR a fish story?  Don Miller was in his boat with his family on the reservoir.  He was near the bridge and the shoreline just south of the high school.
   A two-pound largemouth bass jumped into his boat!
*****
  SPEAKING about making Greentown an attractive place to live, reminds us of our thought expressed in this paper when we entered the 1970's.  In looking to the new decade, we expressed hope some public-spirited citizen would donate a piece of land near the center of town to be made into a public plaza.
   It could have trees and a fountain and park benches.  The plaza would add much to the attractiveness of the community a pleasant and beautiful gift that would be remembered and enjoyed by future generations.


August 1982

Town Board Rezones Lot for New Lodge Building

   Greentown's trustees voted unanimously Tuesday night to rezone property owned by Greentown Masonic Lodge No. 341 so the organization can continue construction of its new building.
  Acting on the recommendation of the town's Plan Commission, which met prior to the regular trustees' meeting, the board agreed to rezone the 102-by-390-foot lot from industrial to residential 4.  The lot is located at 625 E. Payton St. directly across from the Howard County 4-H Fairground.
   Under the new zoning, the lodge will construct its new building as a "private club not providing hotel service and not conducted for gain."  The old zoning permitted only industrial buildings to be on the property.

Panda Vans Will Move

   Panda Vans, 125 N. Meridian St., is moving out of town to a new location.  Owner Gary Duncan said the new facilities on the northeast corner of Ind. 19 and Ind. 22 will offer the business more space and greater accessibility.

Round Barn Ready for Fair

   Just one year ago visitors to the Howard County 4-H Fair watched as the first timbers were set in place on the round barn, which is on the north end of the Pioneer Village.  It now sits ready for visitors at the fair, July 9-14.  There will be a video telling the story of the dismantling of the barn from its original location near Guy and the reconstruction.

Antique Shop to Close

by Dave Turner

   Someone a long time ago said, "if you have a dream, go for it."  I would guess that would best describe my life and career as an antique dealer. Some thirty odd years ago, I became interested in Greentown Glass. I was home on leave from the Navy, and went to the Greentown Glass Museum, looked around, admired the glassware that was on display, and bought a book on Greentown Glass. 
   After returning to my base, and studying the book, I went to the local flea market and found my first piece of Greentown Glass. As I recall, I think I paid ten dollars for it. So in my excitement I mailed this piece of glass to my parents and had them take it to the museum, have it authenticated, and see what the value was.  To my surprise, they told Mom and Dad that it was worth about sixty dollars. After I heard that, I said to myself, whoa...you know, you just might be able to make a living by buying and selling Greentown Glass.  And of course, the rest is history. After moving back to Indiana in ‘91, I became more involved in the glass, not only as a dealer, but also in preserving and trying to ensure that "Greentown Glass" would forever be for the generations to come. In about late 1998 

Township Trustee Responsibilities

   Township trustees have been a part of Indiana government since the 1852 Indiana Constitution was written.  In the late 1800's and early 1900's trustees were responsible for operating schools, maintaining roads and bridges, cutting noxious weeds, overseeing and assisting the poor, supervising elections, collecting dog tax and paying claims for livestock kills and rabies treatment, burying Civil War veterans and maintaining abandoned cemeteries, serving as fire chief, maintaining libraries, and operating Justice of the Peace courts.
   Over the years many of those duties have moved to other forms of operation, but certain needs are still met by the townships.  The service which probably is best known is assistance to people in need.  This may take the form of shelter, utility, food and clothing, medical, transportation, household necessities, and other benefits.  Townships have the responsibility to provide fire protection in unincorporated areas of the township.  They are also responsible for the care and maintenance of abandoned cemeteries.  Trustees are responsible to order the destruction of detrimental plants and weeds.  Trustees also provide insulin if the individual is unable to purchase the insulin.
   The trustees serving the Eastern school district are Greg Kingseed of Jackson Township, Linda Grove of Liberty Township, and Steve Carpenter of Union Township.

Town Passes Nepotism Ordinance

nep.o.tism nep-uh-tiz-uhm Patronage bestowed or favoritism
shown on the basis of family relationship, as in business & politics

   Gov. Mitch Daniels signed a new law in March that prohibits local officeholders from hiring their relatives or from having public contracts with them without making certain disclosures. The law also prohibits public employees from holding any office that controls money or policies that might benefit them. Under that provision, those employees couldn't run for re-election, though they wouldn't be kicked out of office.
   Local units of government were given until July 1, 2012, to have an ordinance in place which complies with the state statute.  Failure to do so will result in the state Department of Local Government Finance not approving the unit’s budget or additional appropriations.
   In response to the state law, the Town of Greentown adopted an ordinance at their regular June meeting.
   The ordinance forbids an employee of one department

from being in the “direct line of supervision” over a family member.  Relative is defined as spouse, parent or step parent, child or step child, brother, sister, step brother, step sister, niece, nephew, aunt, uncle, daughter-in-law or son-in-law.  Relatives currently employed may keep their position unless there is a break in employment.     The Greentown ordinance also stipulates that a single member of the Council cannot act alone in making work assignments, compensation, grievances, advancement or performing evaluations without prior authority of a majority of the Council.
   There are some exceptions in the law.  Volunteer firefighters are not considered employees.  Township trustees who maintain their office in their residence may still keep one of their relatives on the payroll and county sheriffs may continue to keep their spouse on the payroll as jail matron.

Three Generations of Runners

Photo by Carla Simpson
   Three generations of Simpsons participated in the Norris Insurance Run on Saturday June 9th. Pictured, left to right, are John Simpson, Sean Simpson, Jake Simpson and Ron Simpson.  Sean won in his division and Jake took second place.

Green and Gold

But what green?
And what gold?   Green and gold have been the school colors of Eastern Schools since consolidation of the high schools in 1950.  The colors where chosen by a vote of the high school and junior high student body at that time.  The new colors replaced the colors of the consolidating schools, Greentown with green and white, Jackson with blue and white, and Union with red and black.
   Recently some people have noticed that several variations of green and gold are being used on sports uniforms and other items.  The Parent Advisory Group took up the issue to try and find a specific green and specific gold to recommend as the official Eastern color.  A search of old school board minutes and yearbooks found no description other than “green and gold.”  After more research, the committee made the suggestion of hunter green and Vegas gold.  Parent Advisory Group  member, Todd Ream, explained, “Those colors were already being used to some extent (at Eastern) and are obviously a fair interpretation of what has culturally been in place for years.  However, when one looks at color schemes for a variety of K-12 schools, colleges, and universities, those particular colors, hunter green and Vegas gold, are in considerable demand.”
   EHSC Superintendent, Tracy Caddell, said at a recent school board meeting that community input is sought.  After receiving several opinions, including from alumni, Caddell said he will not be making any recommendation on school colors at this time.
   For the foreseeable future, the colors will remain “green and gold”  with interpretation of those colors in the hands of persons ordering items and the availability of dyes, paint, etc.  

Eastern Schools Ready to Address Heatng and AC Needs

  
   Members of the Eastern Howard School Board Corp. and others present at a recent board meeting heard messages from several school staff concerning problems encountered with the heating and air conditioning systems in both the elementary and junior/senior high buildings.  One teacher said that if the air conditioning is turned off in her room, someone must go up on the roof to restart it.  Another told about the need to take the cover off the unit in her room to make adjustments with an “L” wrench.  She must manually turn it off and on all day in order to keep the room at an acceptable temperature.  A teacher at the jr/sr building reported that the spaces in the outside vent are so large that, in winter, cold air blows into the room.  The elementary school had to cancel school once in the winter of 2010-2011 because there was no heat in the cafeteria.
   The administration and board has been aware of these problems for a number of years but was waiting for some debt to drop off before adding debt stemming from these needed projects.  The board has contracted with EMCOR Group, which presented results of a study and plans for the upgrade at the June 12 board meeting.  Representatives of EMCOR explained that different systems were installed with various renovations and additions.  Several are quite inefficient by current standards.  In addition, the corporation has spent $378,000 since January 2008 on maintenance of the current systems.  Funding is recommended to be by a building corporation bond issue and will have no tax impact to taxpayers.  The total amount of the bond will be $4 million.  Supt. Tracy Caddell states, “This is the first part of a long term plan as this first $4 million will not finish the HVAC needs of the corporation.  The board and administration will reevaluate the debt again once this project is done to see if we can do more without increasing the tax levy. Right now we are being told we will be able to do much more but these are still tough economic times and the board wants to be sure that there is no increase in taxes. To do everything so that both buildings have a complete HVAC system is estimated at $12 million. This is only a start to a plan to completely replace both systems as long as we can do so without a tax increase.”
   EMCOR stated that they use local contractors as much as possible.  They also do no “change orders.”  If the project can be done for less than $4 million, there will also be work done on other areas of need, the phone system, the roof, and the swimming pool. 
   A special meeting of the school board has been called for July 19, at 7:30 a.m. at the corporation offices for the final vote on the HVAC project.
   The board will meet at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 10, for the annual re-organization meeting.

Taft in Greentown

            
                    
                     William Howard Taft visited Greentown on Friday, Oct. 23, 1908, when he was campaigning for the office of President of the United States.  This photo is one of several which can be seen at the Greentown History Center, 103 E. Main Street, Greentown, from Aug. 4 through Nov. 25.

               “Greentown on the Ballot”

Involvement of local citizens in the political process

   A new exhibit will open at the Greentown Historical Society, 103 E. Main Street, on August 4.  It will feature information about Greentown area people who have held political office or been involved in government on several levels.  There will be items from the personal collection of Bob McCann, who was on the election and re-election committees for several presidents, and worked from the White House during the terms of Presidents Nixon, Ford and Reagan.  There will also be several interesting photographs and memorabilia involving presidents from Lincoln to Obama.     The exhibit will run through November 25. 
   From Aug. 4 through Sept. 10 the Society will host a traveling exhibit from the Indiana Historical Society.  Named “Faces in the Crowd; Indiana and the Political Process,” it is not the story of the candidates behind the microphone, but the individual citizens in the crowd – each of whom play a crucial role in ensuring the electoral process works. 
    A series of presentations will supplement the exhibit.  On Saturday, August 18, at 2:00 p.m., Bob McCann’s presentation, “From Greentown to the White House,” will include highlights of his 35 years of White House and Capitol Hill experiences.  The program will be at the History Center, 103 E. Main Street.   On October 21, Eastern High School students will give a background of the Lincoln-Douglas debates and recreate portions.  This program will also be at 2:00 at the History Center.
   November 1 will be the annual meeting and dinner of the Greentown Historical Society.  The time and place will be announced later.  At this meeting, attendees will enjoy some political campaign songs through the years and there will be a reprise of the Lincoln-Douglas presentation. Alan Zirkle, who was a member of the Indiana Legislature, will speak about his experiences on Saturday, November 3, at 2:00 p.m. at the History Center.

Flashbacks

Gleaned from the Howard County News
Flash Backs

July 1952

McQuiston-Miller Spot "Saucer-Like" Objects

   Unidentified objects which bore a resemblance to "flying saucers" reported in various parts of the country were observed Wednesday night by Symie McQuiston and Bill Miller.
   Seen while the men were on observation duty for Operation Sky watch on the 8 to 10 p.m. shift, the objects appeared in the west.
   According to the men, two lights which resembled stars were seen at some distance.  They traveled in an easterly direction for some minutes, seemed to merge into a single light, separated into two distinct lights and disappeared to the north.
   The lights were definitely not those on an airplane the men said.  They were definitely not stars, they said, and they were on something that traveled at a great height.

Greentown Girl Appearing in Rodeo Show at Kokomo

   One of the outstanding performers of the rodeo troupe appearing nightly at the Kokomo Speedway is a Greentown girl, Miss Betty Thomas.  A trick rider, she is featured in one of the show's most thrilling acts when she rides her horse "Calgary Red" over the top of an automobile.
     Local residents remember Miss Thomas as an expert rider as a child at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Fred E. Thomas, operator of the Thomas Gravel Pit, just west of Greentown.  Following her graduation from Greentown High School with the class of 1945, she started riding as a professional.
.   She spends her winters near Indiantown, Fla., with her husband, Wiley Elliott, also a rodeo performer.  They live on a cattle ranch.  While living at home, Miss Thomas was a member of the Windfall Saddle Club.
  
*****
The Howard County 4-H Fair, held
July 30, 31 - Aug. 1, 2, 1952, in Memorial Park in Greentown, included Band Concert 
4-H Tractor Maintenance 
4-H Judging
Women's Hog Calling Contest 
Howard County Pet Show
Howard County 4-H Dress Revue 
Howard County Variety Show 
Women's Nail Driving Contest  Sack Race 
4-H Livestock Auction 
4-H Awards Presentation 
Howard County Guernsey Show 
                 30,000 Square Feet of 4-H Exhibits and Merchandise Exhibits
35 Rides and Concessions

July 1972

Greentown Gems

*****
 Greentown Firemen 
got a close look at the giant power station just east of town Monday night.
   Public Service Indiana and Indiana & Michigan Electric Co., co-owners of the station, had firemen in to show them the plant's setup in case they are ever called to fight a blaze there.
   The place carries some impressive statistics.  The main power line through it carries 750,000 volts of electricity, largest in the world.  The big transformers each hold 14,000 gallons of oil, and the entire system was built at a cost of $5-million per mile.
   It is more than 200 miles long!
*****
 Greentown’s Largest Crowd

Township Consolidation

Voters to Make the Decision
   Eleven residents of Liberty, Union, and Jackson Townships, in addition to Jean Lushin, Center Township Trustee and William Huff, attorney for Center Township, plus a resident of Clay Township attended a public hearing on May 9, 2012 in the Greentown Library Community Room.  Jackson Township Trustee, Greg Kingseed, stated that the meeting was to inform the community about the potential consolidation of the three eastern Howard County townships.

BACKGROUND:
In response to the Government Modernization Act, (Indiana Code 36-1.5) a Township Consolidation Study Group (TCSG) was formed in Howard County. The code authorizes political subdivisions to reorganize or consolidate in an effort to operate more efficiently and cooperatively and where possible to achieve a tax savings.  Nine of the eleven Howard County townships, including trustees of Liberty, Jackson and Union, chose to participate, with Honey Creek and Monroe choosing not to.  After many meetings and study, the TCSG determined that the most effective and efficient approach would be to consolidate by school districts.  Liberty, Union, and Jackson Townships would be consolidated into a single township named Eastern Township. A resolution was prepared by which each township could request that a referendum on the question of township consolidation be placed on the November 2012 ballot.
   As of June 1, the Advisory Board of Liberty Township has signed the resolution and it has been delivered to the County Clerk.  The boards of Union and Jackson Townships have yet to act.   

EDITORIAL COMMENT:
If the question will be on the ballot, we recommend informational meetings be planned to discuss the subject.
     

School Board Elections

School Board Elections to be November 6
   Three of the five positions on the Eastern Howard School Board will be on the ballot on November 6.  The seats are for the three townships, Liberty, Union, and Jackson.  Candidates need to be a resident of the township from which they are running for at least one year prior to their name being placed on the ballot.  Also, according to Eastern School Board policy, anyone living in Greentown must run for the Greentown seat, rather than a township seat.  The next election for the Greentown seat will be in 2014. In accordance with Indiana law, if an employee is elected or appointed to the Board, s/he must resign from employment with the Board.  The first day to register to run for school board is July 25, with the deadline being noon August 24.    
   The Indiana School Boards Association has scheduled a candidate forum at Kokomo High School Auditorium, 2501 S. Berkley Rd., Kokomo, on July 23 from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m.  The purpose of the forum is to inform new candidates and incumbents running for re-election about school boardsmanship.  Some of the topics to be discussed include the roles and responsibilities of being a school board member, ethics, and legal responsi-bilities, such as complying with the Open Door Law.  Cost of the forum is $35.  Each candidate will receive a school board candidate’s kit, which contains valuable information on the financial, legal, and ethical aspects of serving on a school board. Registration is available on the ISBA website, www.isba-ind.org.  Questions can be directed to Leanne Waters, Coordinator of Conferences, 317-639-0330, x112, or lwaters@isba-ind.org

Hats Off to Farmers

                                                                                                               Photo by Rachel Jenkins
All 4th grade classes of Eastern Elementary recently visited the agriculture display at the
Greentown Historical Society.  In the above photo, exhibit committee member, Bonnie
Middlesworth, shows Jacob Powell and Pacey Parrow one of the 48 farm-related hats on display.

   The Greentown Historical Society will declare “Hats Off to Farmers Day” on Saturday, June 9, from 9:00 to 4:00 at the Historical Society, 103 E. Main St., Greentown. The public is invited.  Drinks and doughnuts will be served early.
   Visitors are invited to look over the 48 hats on display along with old farm tools, local farm-related business histories, state champions, and many other interesting items that tell the story of “Agriculture Through the Years.” There is a large collection of aerial photos of local farms.  Histories are displayed of the only two implement dealers still in Howard County.  Children will enjoy seeing the miniature farm, complete with animal replicas.  This outstanding exhibit will close on June 24.
   While in town, visit the Farmers Market and the Historical Society garage sale, each open 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Legion Places Flags

Remembering and Honoring

  Photo by Rachel Jenkins
  For fifty years the American Legion Post #317 in Greentown has been placing American flags on the graves of service men and women during the week preceding Memorial Day.  This year 26 members placed about 500 flags on graves in Greenlawn and Lindley Cemeteries.  The members were veterans of WWII, Korea, Vietnam, and Desert Storm.  In the photo above are Mike Dunkle and Stan Johnson. 

Round Barn

Farmer-Carpenters Work on Round Barn

Photo by Rachel Jenkins
   Brothers, Randy and Denny Middlesworth, recently were found at the round barn measuring and cutting wood for the project.  The Armfield-Moyers barn has been moved from its original location at Guy, Indiana, and will see new life at the Howard County 4-H Fairgrounds.  In addition to being a major attraction during each fair, it will be rented for special events.  The inaugural event will be for a wedding reception in June.

Community Garden

Planting Day at Community Garden

Photo by Rachel Jenkins
   Volunteers came out on May 9 to do the first planting at the Community Garden.  The garden is located on South Meridian Street, near the town water tower.  Work days will continue through the season each Wednesday.  Volunteers are welcome at either 9:00 a.m. or 5:00 p.m. Chairman, Anita French, reports that there have been an average of 10 volunteers per week.  For more information, call Anita at 431-8376.
In photo above, from left to right, Mary Miller, Angela Jackson, Shannon McBride, Glenda Cobb, Anita French, and Jolene Rule.

Greentown High Alumni

                                           The Party’s Over

   On May 5, members of the alumni of Greentown High School gathered at a spot east of the present high school on Harrison St. to dedicate a tree and bench, as a legacy for the enjoyment of future generations.  Martha Lou Zirkle, Class of 1946, wrote the following comments.
   May 5, 2012 was a good day!  A nice crowd showed up and everything went well.  We gathered around the oak tree.  Past President, Dale Kingseed, thanked everyone for coming.  The landscaper had done a beautiful job in planting the tree, placing the bench and planting some petunias.  It looked great!  We sang the song  “Green and White”, written by a student back in the 1920's, author unknown.  We also sang “Onward Greentown.”  There is a plaque to be placed on the side of the bench.  It will say, “We have taken from the oak tree, our color of bright green, GHS 1902-1950, donated by GHS Alumni 5/5/12.”  The tree will grow tall and strong where the squirrels can play, the birds will build their nests and sing their songs.
   We then adjourned for lunch at All in Good Taste where we enjoyed potato soup, pork sandwiches, drinks, pie and ice cream.  We had a time of sharing memories from our school days.  As the old song says, “The party’s over, it’s time to call it a day.”  Memories will linger on, we have an oak tree to remind us of good ol’ GHS, a great place to be from and go to school.  So we close out a wonderful time of our lives.  The party’s over.

Teachers Retire

Teachers Retire After Many Years at Eastern
   Eastern Elementary School is saying “good-bye” to four teachers and two paraprofessionals at the end of the 2011-2012 school year.  Retiring teachers, with years at Eastern, are Bobette Harper (35), Ruth Shaw (38), Monty Maggart (39), and Paul Nicholson (43).  Sharon Colglazier has been at Eastern 23 years, 10 as a teacher, 9 as an aide and 4 as special ed secretary.  Sally Imbler has been an aide for 11 years after teaching for 21 years.
   All noted a significant change being the use of technology.  Bobette Harper commented that she started with calculators and now every student has access to a personal device.  Monty Maggart states that constant need for stimulus from devices has led to shorter attention span.  Other changes noted by some are in approach to discipline and more testing.
   Several accomplishments stand out which the teachers will take with them as fond memories.  Paul Nicholson lists the annual Veterans Day program which he coordinated for over 20 years, sponsoring the National Current Events Club which won two national championships among the 200+ schools involved, and co-sponsoring the Math Bowl Team with Monty Maggart.  Bobette Harper’s  highlights include making presentations at the Hoosier Association of Science Teachers convention and being listed in Who’s Who of American Teachers upon a nomination from a former student.  Ruth Shaw found satisfaction in helping students understand concepts and helping them with personal problems.  Sharon Colglazier was honored to be the first Reading Recovery teacher at Eastern.  Monty Maggart listed state Teacher of the Year Award, being nominated twice for Presidential Award in Excellence in Math and Science, Lilly grant recipient for development of curriculum, and Walmart Teacher of the Year.
   As for advice for younger teachers, Shaw says to build relationships with the children and to “review and remediate.”  Harper extends that to building strong support bonds with colleagues.  She also says to allow for the unlimited differences in students.  Nicholson says, “Our children are living messages we send to a time and place we will never see.”  Maggart says to be proactive to what is happening in education reform at federal, state, and local levels.
   Future plans include (variously) time with family, hobbies, travel, being of continuing service, and continuing to be a Comet supporter.
   Jill Howell is retiring from the Junior High after 15 years at Eastern.  Greg Dryer, Director of Facilities,  retired at the end of the first semester after 15 years at Eastern.

Steven Hubler

Steven B. Hubler

May 10, 1945 - May 7, 2012

  Steven B. Hubler, 66, Kokomo, died at 9:12 a.m. Monday, May 7, 2012, at North Woods Commons, Kokomo. Steven was born May 10, 1945, in Red Bank, N.J., the son of Bryce and Ellabelle (Mohler) Hubler. Steven’s wife, Edna, preceded him in death in 1985.
   Steve was a graduate of Eastern High School. He served in the U.S. Army in Korea and Ethiopia from 1965 until 1969. He worked as a systems analyst following his military service. Steve was a member of Greentown Masonic Lodge and American Legion Post #317.
   Steve is survived by his mother, Ellabelle Hubler, Greentown; brother, Dan Hubler, Sydney, Ohio; niece, Lyndsey (Waverly) Marcum, Mobile, Ala.; and one great-nephew, Waverly Tilmon Marcum.
   Steve was preceded in death by his father and his wife, Edna Hubler.
   No services are planned. Private graveside services will be held at a later date in Greenlawn Cemetery, Greentown.
   Arrangements were handled by Hasler-Stout Funeral Home, Greentown. Online condolences can be made at www.hasler-stout.com

Lloyd Cheek

Lloyd Cheek

Apr. 8, 1931 - May 19, 2012

   Lloyd Cheek, 81, of Frankfort, died at 12:15 a.m. Saturday, May 19, 2012, in Clinton House Health Care, Frankfort.
   He was born April 8, 1931 in Howard County, to Charles and Sarah Eva (Ronk) Cheek. He married Constance Hinkle, who preceded him in death. On Oct. 7, 1983, he married Patricia A. Lee, who survives.
   Mr. Cheek was a 1949 graduate of Eastern High School, and a 1953 graduate of Indiana University. He served in the U. S. Air Force, and was a home builder and real estate agent in Kokomo for 50 years. He owned and operated Cheek Realty for 42 years before retiring in 2004. He was a 50-year member of the Greentown Masonic Lodge No. 341, a past member of the Elks Club, Moose Lodge, Indiana Association Board of Realtors, National Association Board of Realtors, past president Kokomo Board of Realtors, he was also awarded the Professional Milestone award and was a member of Manson Congregational Christian Church. He was an avid I.U. fan and his greatest joy was his grandchildren.
   In addition to his wife, Patricia Lee Cheek, he is survived by a son: Lloyd (Susie) Cheek II of Los Angeles; a daughter, Connie Jo (Richard) Wilson of San Luis Obispo, Calif; stepsons: Philip Lee of Colfax, Steven Lee of Frankfort and Jeffrey (Patti) Lee of Frankfort; nine grandchildren: Natalie (Nick) Reyes, Lloyd Cheek III, Johnna (Nick) Melton, Heather Robison, Zachery Lee, Derek (Kelly) Lee, Samantha (Zach) Lee, Alex Lee and Ian Lee; five great-grandchildren: Blake Melton, Braden Robison, Colby Melton, Sophie Robison and Bryce Lee; a brother: Dr. Joe (Nancy) Cheek of Bowling Green, Ky.; a sister: Wilma Middlesworth of Marion; two sister-in-laws: Milda Cheek and Eva Cheek, both of Greentown; and several nieces and nephews.
   He was preceded in death by his parents; twin brother: Floyd Cheek; brother: John Cheek; and brother-in-law Darrell Middlesworth.
   Services were Thursday May 24 at Hasler & Stout Funeral Home 112 E. Main Greentown, with brother-in-law Jeff Chynoweth officiating. Burial was at Greenlawn Cemetery, Greentown. Memorials may be made to Manson Congregational Christian Church and/or Rainbow Haven Transitional Housing, both of Frankfort. Arrangements were handled by Hasler-Stout Funeral Home. Online Condolences can be made at www.hasler-stout.com

Flashbacks

Flash Backs
Gleaned From the Howard County News

June 1952

Mrs. Dillon is Hit on Television Show

   Mrs. Florence Dillon, owner of the Dillon Tourist Home, made her debut on television last Monday and "just about stole the show" according to informed sources.
   Hailed as "one of the most relaxed and entertaining persons we have ever had on a program," Mrs. Dillon appeared on the weekly TV program of Kokomo merchants as guest of Joe Etter and John Cook, J. and J. Appliance Store.
   What was it like?  Mrs. Dillon said she "just answered their questions and gave them some gossip and things I enjoy."
   It was a very nice experience, she said, even if "the temperature was in the 90's on the drive down and we had a flat tire."

J.C. Mallott Buys Nancy Ann Gift Shop

   Purchase of the Nancy Ann Gift Shop from Mrs. Naomi Currens was announced today by Jean Malott, local watchmaker.
   Malott has done watch repair work in the shop since it originally opened on Grant Street in December of 1950.  The business moved to its present location on Main Street last November.
   Prior to coming to Greentown, Malott did watch repair work in Marion.  He is a graduate of the Kansas City School of Watchmaking.
   Married and the father of three children, he served three years with the U.S. Navy during World War II.

Local Summer Activities Begin This Week-end

   Summer "money saving values" begin in Greentown this week with weekly Saturday Specials being offered by town merchants.
   Weekly band concerts will be held every Thursday night, and softball and hardball schedules will be announced.
   To continue through the summer months, the Saturday "bargain nights" will feature specials by most local merchants--the item or items to be placed at reduced cost for that night only.
   Band concerts will be held on Thursday.  A new band stand is being erected and will be located on Meridian Street near the Main Street intersection.
   The combined Eastern Howard Junior and Senior High School bands, under the direction of Vernon Crouch, will play.  On the programs will be "old-time favorites" and special numbers selected during the season.
   All activities are sponsored by the Greentown Business and Professional Men's Association.

June 1972

Good Deal!

   It may not be breakfast in bed, but it's a pretty good deal, anyway.
   That's the general appraisal of the Festival Breakfasts planned this year at the Hi-Way Café for Thursday, Friday and Saturday mornings of Greentown Glass Festival Week.
   Mr. and Mrs. Max Hensler are serving as chairmen for the event, which is new on the festival program, and Max reports the breakfast will be held buffet style.
   "It will be ready when you arrive," he said.  "This will mean no waiting."
   Hensler pointed out this will make it easy for people on their way to work in factories to have a good breakfast and help the festival at the same time.
   Cost of the help-yourself breakfast is $1.25 and that includes all you can eat of sausage, eggs, pancakes, coffee or milk.
   All profits go to the Greentown Glass Museum.  The Hi-Way Café is donating its facilities and equipment and all workers are festival volunteers.

Mary's Coiffures Open for Business

   Mary Alice Dyche has purchased Noel's Coiffures at 113 W. Main, Greentown, and renamed the business Mary's Coiffures.
   Mrs. Dyche, a Kokomo resident, has named Judy Kendall as the shop's operator.
   Born in Atlanta, Ga., Mrs. Dyche has 20 years experience in the coiffure business, the last three have been at Noel's.

Spelling Contest Winners Named

   Winners of fourth and fifth grade spelling contests were released this week by Greentown Elementary principal Francis Echelbarger.
   In fourth grade competition, Amy Powell took first place, Kim Brooks was second, and Lori Birdsong was third.
   Other contestants included:  Donna Lamb, Sheryl Lorenz, Nick Hipp, Pam Cronan, Ronnie Reed, Annie Wyrick, Krystal Brubaker, Keith Zook and Jean Smith.
   Contestants were chosen on the basis of three from each of the fourth grade classes taught by Mrs. Margaret Knote, Mrs. Dorothy Hall, Mrs. Jane Eldridge and Dean Langford.
   In fifth grade competition, Lori Gunter won first place ahead of Mark Lyons and Robin King.
   Other contestants were: Michael Wright, Shelly Roberts, Susan Spangler, Melinda Gibson, Rhota Sommers, Lisa McKibben, Jeff Hamilton, Mindy Butler and Tonja Mohr.
   Fifth grade students were chosen from the classes of Mrs. Bertha Kistler, Robert Rowe, Paul Nicholson and Mrs. Phyllis Warnock.

June 1982

Flag Pole Pizza Shoppe Bought by Elwood Family

   Circle Pizza Inc., a family-owned corporation based in Elwood, has purchased Flag Pole Pizza Shoppe, 119 N. Meridian St.
   Jerry Collins, president of the corporation, bought the business from Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hedge of Kokomo late last month.
   The Elwood pizza restaurant owned by Collins and his family has been in business 24 years and is the oldest restaurant of its kind in that city.  Circle Pizza Inc. owns similar shops in Alexandria and Frankton, and the family also operates Collins' Taxidermy in Elwood, the largest taxidermy business in Indiana.
   "We'll be loading this place up with (stuffed or mounted) American animals," Collins said, explaining one of the changes to be made in the restaurant and its decor.
   Other changes planned are new flooring, air conditioning in the dining room, free home delivery, and the addition of a wide variety of sandwiches and Italian dishes, a french fryer and a chicken broaster.  "And we plan a few added surprises for the grand opening," Collins said.
   Andrea Becker will manage the business and Mark Rogers will serve as supervisor.  Other employees will be Mitchell Roberts and Michelle Becker.  In addition, Collins said he is looking for another part-time employee and two drivers to deliver pizzas.

Girls League Dropped

   There will be no formal Greentown Women's Recreational Softball League this summer.   Becky Middleton, who has acted as director of the league since its formation three years ago, said a coach for the third team just couldn't be found in time.
   Instead, the two existing teams will meet informally on Sunday afternoons and will be seeking other area women's teams against which they can pit their skills.  There will be no fees this year.