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Latest News--Friday, May 17th, 2013

Ripley Co. teen driver gets juvenile detention & probation for fatal car crash

On Thursday, a Dillsboro teenager pled guilty in connection with a fatal car crash in western Ripley County. Back on March 7th, two (2) pickup trucks collided at the intersection of Ripley County Road 850 West and Fairgrounds Road. Three (3) teenagers were killed in the crash, and three (3) others were injured.

The surviving occupants admitted that the two (2) drivers had been racing to get through the intersection. A 17-year-old male driver who survived the crash pled guilty to Reckless Homicide and Reckless Driving. He received a ninety (90) day sentence at a juvenile detention facility, and he’ll be on probation with a suspended driver’s license until he turns 21-years-old.

Source: Indiana State Police-Versailles Post (http://www.in.gov/activecalendar/EventList.aspx?fromdate=3/7/2013&todate=3/7/2013& display=Day&type=public&eventidn=89350&view=EventDetails&information_id=176595)

Madison meth suspect gets 9 yr. sentence for downtown arrest

On Thursday, a Madison drug offender was sentenced in Jefferson Circuit Court. 30-year-old Douglas Wayne Gray was arrested by Madison Police last September. City officers received an anonymous tip about drug activity at a home on West Fourth Street. Gray was located inside the house along with methamphetamine and ingredients used to make meth.

Gray pled guilty to Dealing Meth (a class A felony). Three (3) felonies and a misdemeanor were dismissed as part of his plea agreement. Gray was sentenced to nine years (9 yrs.) with the Indiana Department of Corrections with none suspended.

Source: Jefferson Circuit Court documents

Designer plans to scale back Audubon Park drainage improvement project

On Thursday, the Jefferson County Commissioners met for the second time in May.

Madison Schools’ safety specialist Jill Deputy talked about a partnership with Madison Police and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. Starting this August, Deputy wants two (2) school resource officers who can protect students, enforce attendance rules, prevent drug use, and deter violence among students and school visitors. One (1) school resource officer could be stationed at Madison High School while the other could travel between the junior high and the four (4) elementary buildings. Deputy estimated a forty-thousand dollar ($40,000) annual salary for each officer, and Madison Schools will seek matching grants that became available through legislation that was signed by the governor last week. Deputy is studying other schools that already have school resource officers. Sheriff John Wallace plans to give the officers “special deputy status” so they will have “arresting power”. Commissioner Bob Little wanted Deputy, the sheriff, and the county attorney to study potential liability issues with school resource officers. Little said, “I think we’re way ‘behind the eight (8) ball’. Other schools have done it, and it’s a no brainer.”

Next, county council president Bill Hensler told the commissioners about possible revisions to the salary structure for county workers. Hensler wants to create salary incentives for county employees who have or earn additional qualifications or education. He’ll send out a survey to county employees which must be returned before August 1st. The county council and commissioners will study the survey results as they consider possible changes to the salary structure.

Then, engineer Colby King talked about stormwater drainage improvements in the Audubon Park subdivision. The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs approved nearly five-hundred-forty-thousand dollars ($538,513) toward the project. This budget includes more than four-hundred-forty-thousand dollars ($444,000) for construction costs, but King’s preliminary designs carried an estimated cost of about six-hundred-sixty-thousand dollars ($660,000). King will scale back the Audubon Park drainage project to include smaller pipes and fewer inlets. He’ll make plans available to contractors by June 7th, and the commissioners will open bids on June 27th. King anticipates that most of the project will be completed by the end of this year with a “project close-out” date of July 31st, 2014.

Finally, sheriff Wallace gave an update on security measures which were added to the courthouse this month. Special deputies were hired to monitor a metal detector which was located at the west entrance. Wallace said that the security officers have intercepted “several guns” which were inadvertently brought into the courthouse. He plans to post signage to let courthouse visitors know about the metal detectors. The sheriff said, “The citizens have been great; we’ve been totally appreciative of their attitudes.”

The next meeting of the Jefferson County Commissioners will be May 31st.

Reporter: Casey Bloos, WORX/WXGO

Madison High School graduation rate jumps 3.9% in 2012

This week, the Indiana Department of Education announced graduation rates for the 2011-2012 school year.

Madison Consolidated High School saw their graduation rate rise for the second consecutive year. M-C-H-S graduated almost ninety percent (89.7%) of their 2012 class within four years (4 yrs.). That was up four percent (3.9%) from the year before.

Also, Southwestern High School’s graduation rate improved to seventy-eight percent (78.0%) in 2012; that’s up slightly from the previous year.

The graduation rates improved for New Washington, Scottsburg, Austin, Jennings County, and Switzerland County High Schools. Meanwhile, South Ripley High School had a falling graduation rate last year.

The statewide public graduation rate for the class of 2012 was eighty-eight percent (88.4%). Among private schools, Shawe Memorial High School in Madison graduated eighteen (18) of their twenty-one (21) seniors last year.

Source: Indiana Department of Education (http://www.doe.in.gov/improvement/accountability/graduation-cohort-rate)

Jefferson County’s unemployment rate falls to 7.5% in April

On Friday, the Indiana Department of Workforce Development reported that Jefferson County’s unemployment rate improved for the third consecutive month. The county’s April unemployment rate fell to seven-and-a-half percent (7.5%). That’s a point-and-a-half (1.4%) lower than the month before.

Jefferson County’s unemployment rate in April was better than the statewide average but worse than the national average. Eleven-hundred-eighty (1180) Jefferson County residents were listed as “unemployed” last month.

Meanwhile, Jennings County’s unemployment was the highest in the area at about nine-and-a-half percent (9.6%). Switzerland County had the lowest unemployment in the area at less than seven percent (6.6%).

Source: Indiana Department of Workforce Development (http://www.hoosierdata.in.gov/docs/state/lfe/2013/lfemth04.pdf)

Jefferson Co. sees uptick in building permits in 2012

Earlier this week, the U-S Census Bureau released data about building permits issued in 2012. Forty-six (46) residential housing permits were issued in Jefferson County last year. That’s up slightly from the year before. All of these were for single-family homes. The number of building permits went down in Jennings County whereas Clark, Scott, Ripley, and Switzerland Counties each had more building permits issued in 2012 when compared with 2011.

Source: STATS Indiana (http://www.stats.indiana.edu/bp/)

I.O.U.C.C. prefers ‘overlay’ option for new area code within 8-1-2 boundaries

On Thursday, the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor gave a recommendation about a new telephone area code in southern Indiana. The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission is considering changes to the telephone numbers in southern Indiana. The 8-1-2 area code is projected to run out of unused numbers by March 2015, and state regulators are mulling ways to add a new area code. Their proposals include several geographic splits and an overlay of the new numbers within the 8-1-2 area code.

The Utility Consumer Counselor is in favor of the overlay option. Under this proposal, southern Indiana residents would keep their current numbers, but new phone lines would be issued a different area code starting in late 2014 or early 2015. An overlay would require telephone users to dial the area code prefix when making local calls.

State utility regulators will make a decision about a new area code by the end of this year.

Source: Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (http://www.in.gov/activecalendar/EventList.aspx?fromdate=1/1/2013&todate=12/31/2013& display=Year,Month&type=public&eventidn=100111&view=EventDetails&information_id=181619)

Scott Co. gets $30K grant for ‘drug interdiction prosecutor’

On Friday, the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute finalized a grant contract for the Scott County Prosecutor’s Office. The institute will provide a thirty-thousand dollar ($30,000) Justice Assistance Grant which will be matched by Scott County. The grant funding will go toward the salary of a full-time “drug interdiction prosecutor” who will exclusively handle drug cases through the end of this year.

Source: Indiana Department of Administration (https://fs85.gmis.in.gov/IDOAcontracts/public/71247-000.pdf)

I.D.E.M. grants $404K for Indian Creek Watershed management

On Friday, the Indiana Department of Environmental Management finalized a grant contract for the Historic Hoosier Hills Resource, Conservation, and Development. This grant will help H-H-H to implement a management plan for the Indian Creek Watershed in Switzerland County. They’ll develop a cost-sharing program with local farmers to keep nutrients from reaching groundwater and streams. Also, they’ll conduct outreach and education programs to talk about how to reduce pollution in the watershed. And, they’ll monitor the water quality including weekly E-coli sampling and occasional tests for temperature, stream flow, turbidity, phosphorus, orthophosphate, nitrate, dissolved oxygen, p-h (pH), and macro-invertebrates.

This four-hundred-four-thousand dollar ($403,955) grant is funded through the U-S Environmental Protection Agency.

Source: Indiana Department of Administration (https://financial.gmis.in.gov/IDOAcontracts/public/62426-000.pdf)

Milton Elementary volunteers add crumb rubber playground surface

On Friday, the Trimble County School Corporation celebrated recent improvements to the playground at Milton Elementary School. The playground now has rubber mulch made from recycled tires. This six inch (6”) layer of crumb rubber will provide a safe, protective surface for kids who might fall off the playground equipment.

This project was paid through business donations and contributions from the Milton Parent-Teacher Organization and the Trimble County School Board. Local volunteers Nolan Hamilton and Mike Gross helped parents, teachers, and students as they spread out the rubber mulch. A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Milton Elementary playground was held on Friday morning.

Source: Trimble County School Corporation (http://www.trimble.kyschools.us/userfiles/4/MES%20Rubber%20Mulch.pdf)

Beta Sigma Phi seeks entrants for Miss Madison Regatta Pageant

On Thursday, the Xi Beta Upsilon chapter of the Beta Sigma Phi sorority is still accepting registrations for the 2013 Miss Madison Regatta Scholarship Pageant. That’ll be held on Monday, July 1st at Madison High School. The entry fee is seventy-five dollars ($75). So far, organizers have announced only one (1) contestant.

High school graduates under 27-years-old can sign up for a chance to win a one-thousand dollar ($1000) scholarship. The entry fee is seventy-five dollars ($75), and organizers will accept the first twelve (12) contestants. Also, they’re accepting entries for the youth Regatta pageants which will be held on Saturday, June 30th.

Pageant applications are available at River Valley Financial Bank on Madison’s hilltop, Miss Vivian’s Tanning Parlor, and Steinhardt Heating and Air Conditioning. Also, the entry forms were posted on our website w-o-r-x-radio-dot-com (www.worxradio.com). The entry deadline for the Miss Madison Regatta Pageants is June 8th. Pageant participants can learn more by calling (812) 866-2416.

Source: Event organizer Linda Ralston

Governor green-lights health benefit exchanges & Medicaid revisions

On Saturday, Indiana Governor Mike Pence signed a bill that was co-authored by 66th district State Representative Terry Goodin.

House Enrolled Act 1328 was amended drastically since Goodin signed onto the bill in late January. The final bill eliminated some “Medicaid eligibility resource requirements” and specified which Medicaid recipients are “eligible to receive payments related to certain Medicare premium and cost-sharing amounts”. It “provides for implementation of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act with respect to a health benefit exchange in Indiana”. Indiana’s current insurance laws would apply to plans that are offered on the health benefit exchange. And, the bill calls for the state family and social services secretary to study the possibility of school-based health care clinics.

House Enrolled Act 1328 takes effect on July 1st. The Indiana General Assembly runs through late April.

Source: Indiana Legislature (http://www.in.gov/legislative/bills/2013/HE/HE1328.1.html)

Governor signs Senate Bill to prevent disclosure of investigation info

On Saturday, Indiana Governor Mike Pence signed a bill that was sponsored by 67th district State Representative Randy Frye. According to Frye, Senate Enrolled Act 369 would allow law enforcement officers and prosecutors to withhold certain information from public disclosure. He said, “That was a bill that the state police wanted. Senate Bill 369 dealt with the ability for the state police and other police agencies to neither confirm nor deny the possibility that there was an investigation going on or that they had received information about a suspect. What brought that about was the office of homeland security in Washington, from time to time, would provide information on a specific terrorism or investigations that were going on. And in Indiana, we did not have the ability to keep that information private therefore possibly jeopardizing the safety of witnesses or law enforcement officers. And so, we worked together with the Hoosier State Press Association on that bill to work out a compromise so the information can be kept on a limited basis with an appeals process that if the individual requesting the information doesn't feel that it’s being withheld appropriately, it can go to the courts. And, the courts can look at it and determine whether it’s appropriate to agree to that or to make that information available. Again, the Hoosier State Press Association and the Indiana State Police were big factors in drafting this legislation. So, they came to an agreement on the wording, and that legislation passed with no problem.”

Senate Enrolled Act 369 takes effect on July 1st. The Indiana General Assembly adjourned in late April.

Source: 67th District Indiana State Representative Randy Frye, Indiana Legislature (http://www.in.gov/legislative/bills/2013/SE/SE0369.1.html)

Cartmell Elementary wins youth division of Kentucky History Bowl

Last weekend, the Kentucky Junior Historical Society announced the winners from their recent History Bowl and Kentucky History Day contest. That was held at the University of Louisville on April 26th and 27th. Several students from Cartmell Elementary in Carrollton excelled during the history contests.

Students Dylan Dermon, Katie Osborne, and Andrea Searcy won first, second, and third places respectively in the youth division history test. Also, Dermon, Gavin Hunt, Deaton Oak, and Luke Heveline earned first place in youth group documentary. Their video was entitled “Jackie Robinson: Breaking the Color Barrier”, and it described the friendship between Robinson and his teammate Pee Weese Reese from Kentucky. Osborne and Emily Blackburn won second place for their youth group exhibit. It was entitled “Laura Clay: Hero To Women”, and it showed items from the Kentucky women’s suffrage movement. The Cartmell Elementary team was named the winner of the youth division History Bowl. And, the Kentucky Junior Historical Society gave its “Outstanding Member Award” to the team’s mentor Alex Jeffrey who is a freshman at Carroll County High School.

In a press statement, Cartmell Elementary principal Doug Oak wrote, “It’s exciting to see kids interested in pursuing something that is so vital to our democracy. As a parent, it’s refreshing to see hard work pay off. These students have been working long hours throughout the year, gaining a deeper understanding of their topic.”

Source: Carroll County Schools (http://www.carroll.kyschools.us/districtNewsArticle.aspx?artID=175), Kentucky Historical Society (http://migration.kentucky.gov/Newsroom/history/KHS+Announces+2013+Kentucky +Junior+Historical+Society+Conference+and+Kentucky+History+Day+Winners.htm)

Upcoming Events

Friends of the Jennings Co. Public Library sell discount books on Fri. & Sat.

This week, the Friends of the Jennings County Public Library will hold their annual book sale. That runs Friday (5/17) from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Saturday (5/18) from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Library volunteers will sell gently-used books and other materials. The public is invited to the book sale at the Jennings County Library.

Source: Jennings County Public Library (http://reservation.jenningslib.org/eventsignup.asp?ID=1728, http://reservation.jenningslib.org/eventsignup.asp?ID=1734)

Spring Book Sale raises money for Madison & Hanover libraries

This weekend, the Friends of the Jefferson County Public Library will hold their Spring Book Sale. That’ll be in the Madison Library Auditorium on Friday (5/17) from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, Saturday (5/18) from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday (5/19) from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. They’ll sell some of the library’s surplus books, magazines, audiobooks, videos, and compact discs. Proceeds from the book sale will help the library. Everyone is invited to the book sale at the Madison Library.

Source: Jefferson County Public Library (http://mjcpl.org/event/fol-spring-book-sale-at-madison/)

Jefferson Co. Historical Society exhibits children’s art through Friday

Friday (5/17) is the final day to view a special display at the Jefferson County Heritage Center. Last month, the Beta Omega chapter of the Tri-Kappa Sorority opened their 11th annual Children’s Art Exhibit. This features artwork by many local students. The Children’s Art Exhibit at the Jefferson County Heritage Center is free and open to the public.

Source: Jefferson County Historical Society (http://jchshc.net/newsevent/children-art-show)

Carroll County students enjoy summer break after Friday

Friday (5/17) is the final day of the semester for students at Carroll County Schools. Those students will be on summer break until their fall semester begins in August.

Source: Carroll County Schools

Kelly Miller Circus returns to Madison High School parking lot

On Friday (5/17), the Madison Lions Club will present the Kelly Miller Circus. They’ll have acrobats, animals, stunt performers, clowns, dancers, and more. Circus tickets can be purchased at Chandler Chevrolet, Chandler Select, River Valley Financial Bank, MainSource Bank, and the Farmers Bank of Milton. The Kelly Miller Circus will perform at 4:30 PM and 7:30 PM outside Madison Consolidated High School.

Source: Kelly Miller Circus (http://kellymillercircus.com/events/)

River Roots Music & Folk Arts Festival starts on Friday

On Friday (5/17), the 8th annual River Roots Music and Folk Arts Festival starts in Madison’s Bicentennial Park. This event features music, art, foods, and beverages throughout the weekend.

Gates open on Friday at 5:00 PM. Local singer and guitarist Andrea Davidson will lead off from the main stage at 6:00 PM. Then, Appalatin—a six (6) member instrumental group from Louisville—follows at 8:00 PM. And, headliners Christine Balfa and the Balfa Toujours will play Cajun music at 10:00 PM.

The Folk Art Village will feature demonstrations by a blacksmith, a rifle smith, a wood carver, a fiddle maker, a log-cabin builder, and more. Festival-goers can purchase hand-made instruments, jewelry, blown glass figures, soaps, bags, clothes, pottery, and paintings. Plein air painters will capture the event on canvas, and food and beverage vendors will be open for the dinner-time crowd.

A festival wristband costs twenty-five dollars ($25), and it’s good for both festival days. The River Roots Festival continues Saturday on Madison’s riverfront.

Source: River Roots Music and Folk Arts Festival (http://www.riverroots.org/)

Indiana residents can fish for free at Crosley Wildlife Area on Saturday

On Saturday (5/18), the Indiana Department of Natural Resources will hold a free fishing day at Crosley Fish and Wildlife Area near North Vernon. Indiana’s adult residents don’t need a fishing license or a salmon or trout stamp to fish on public waters on Saturday. Starting at 8:00 AM, D-N-R employees will teach families about fishing safety and regulations, and children can fish until 12:00 PM at Nighthawk Lake. The D-N-R can supply some poles and bait, but visitors should bring other fishing supplies along with snacks and water. Local residents can learn more about the free fishing day at Crosley Fish and Wildlife Area by calling (812) 346-5596.

Source: Indiana Department of Natural Resources (http://www.in.gov/activecalendar/EventList.aspx?fromdate=1/1/2013&todate=12/31/2013& display=Year,Month&type=public&eventidn=99028&view=EventDetails&information_id=181229)

Indoor yard sale set for Saturday at East Enterprise Firehouse

On Saturday (5/18), the East Enterprise Volunteer Fire Department will host an indoor yard sale. Community members can sell their items by renting a ten-foot by ten-foot (10’x10’) booth for ten dollars ($10) or a table for five dollars ($5). Sellers can keep their profits, and buyers can find great deals and enjoy light concessions. The indoor yard sale goes from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the East Enterprise Firehouse.

Source: Switzerland County Tourism (http://www.switzcotourism.com/#)

Switzerland Co. 4-H sets community swap meet at fairgrounds

This weekend, the Switzerland County 4-H will hold a community swap meet. Sale items could include farm animals, pets, plants, hanging baskets, homemade crafts, household furniture, collectibles, and more. Vendors can set up a fourteen-foot by fourteen-foot (14’x14’) booth space for just five dollars ($5). They can keep their sales proceeds, and the booth rental fees will go toward Switzerland County 4-H activities. Visitors can shop for bargains and enjoy hot dogs, chips, and drinks. The Switzerland County Swap Meet runs Saturday (5/18) and Sunday (5/19) from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Switzerland County Fairgrounds.

Source: Switzerland County Tourism (http://www.switzcotourism.com/#)

Madison building inspector organizes presentations on building safety

On Saturday (5/18), the City of Madison will host a pair of public events to celebrate “Building Safety Month” in May. The first presentation will deal with disaster safety and mitigation. Guest speakers will include Jefferson County emergency management director Dave Bell, sheriff John Wallace, Madison Police chief Dan Thurston, community relations director Andrew Forrester, and building inspector Mark Johnson. This program runs from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

Later, Johnson will talk about “green” building techniques and ways to save energy costs. That session goes from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM. Both presentations will be held inside council chambers at Madison City Hall. They are free and open to the public.

Source: City of Madison (http://www.madison-in.gov/documents/2013%20Building%20Safety%20Month.pdf)

Clifty Falls State Park hosts rail hike and reptile program

This weekend, Clifty Falls State Park will have a pair of programs for park visitors. They’ll lead a “Trails and Rails Hike” to view the railroad remnants of Brough’s Trace. That ninety minute (90 min.) semi-rugged hike will begin at Lilly Memorial on Saturday (5/18) at 9:00 AM. Then on Sunday (5/19) at 2:00 PM, the Clifty Falls Nature Center will host a program on live reptiles. Both of these programs are free with park admission.

Source: Indiana Department of Natural Resources (http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/files/sp-Clifty_May.pdf)

‘Madison in Bloom’ features private garden tour & plant sale

This weekend, the Jefferson County Historical Society will hold their 2013 “Madison in Bloom” garden walk. Visitors can tour several private gardens in Madison’s “Historic Landmark District”. And, they’ll have a chance to purchase plants for their own gardens.

“Madison in Bloom” runs on Saturday (5/18) from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM and Sunday (5/19) from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Adult tickets cost ten-and-a-half dollars ($10.50) for the entire tour. Admission is free for kids under 12-years-old. “Madison in Bloom” tickets are available at the Jefferson County Heritage Center or online at j-c-h-s-h-c-dot-net (jchshc.net).

Source: Jefferson County Historical Society (http://jchshc.net/newsevent/madison-in-bloom)

Jennings Co. Relay for Life raises funds for cancer research

On Saturday (5/18), the Jennings County Relay for Life will be held at the Jennings County High School track. Local residents will walk laps to raise awareness and funding for cancer research.

They’ll hold an opening ceremony at 10:00 AM. Then, participants will pledge to fight cancer in their lives, families, and community. This “Fight Back” ceremony starts at 3:00 PM. Later, cancer survivors can attend a special dinner and walk one (1) lap around the track. This “Survivors’ Lap” begins at 7:15 PM, and it’s followed by the “Caregivers’ Lap”.

At 9:00 PM, a luminaria ceremony will be held around the track. Each of the luminaries are marked with the name of someone who’s had cancer. These luminaries will light the track as the names of cancer victims will be read. They’ll hold closing ceremonies on Sunday (5/19) at 8:00 AM.

Visitors are invited to attend the Jennings County Relay For Life for free, but donations are welcomed.

Source: Jennings County Relay For Life (http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR?sid=128433& type=fr_informational&pg=informational&fr_id=50285)

Tee times available for Madison Area Chamber Golf Scramble

On Saturday (5/18), the Madison Area Chamber of Commerce will hold their 20th Annual Golf Scramble. Businesses and organizations can enter a foursome for three-hundred dollars ($300) or seventy-five dollars ($75) per person. Golfers can win prizes for first, second, and third place, closest to the pin, and hole-in-one along with dozens of door prizes. Lunch and beverages will be provided for golfers. Registration starts at 11:30 AM, and the competition starts at 12:30 PM. The Chamber Golf Scramble will be held at Sunrise Golf Course in Madison.

Source: Madison Area Chamber of Commerce (http://madisonindiana.com/chamber/golf-scramble/)

River Roots Music & Folk Arts Festival continues on Saturday

On Saturday (5/18), the 8th annual River Roots Music and Folk Arts Festival continues in Madison’s Bicentennial Park. This event features music, art, foods, and beverages.

Gates open on Saturday at 12:00 PM. An acoustic quartet, the Vespers, will open up the main stage at 1:00 PM. Cincinnati-based singer Ma Crow and the Lady Slippers will chime in from the second stage at 2:15 PM. That’s followed by a four (4) piece string band, Rani Arbo and Daisy Mayhem, on the main stage at 3:00 PM. Singer/songwriters Danny Schmidt and Carrie Elkin will perform on the secondary stage at 4:15 PM. That leads up to the main stage show by John McCutcheon at 5:00 PM and Danny Flanigan on the second stage at 6:15 PM. Cellist Ben Sollee will play the main stage at 7:00 PM. Then, wife-and-husband duo Stacey Earle and Mark Stuart will perform a set on the second stage at 8:15 PM. Finally, the festival headliner, the Carolina Chocolate Drops will take the main stage at 9:00 PM. Their repertoire includes traditional folk, Americana, and southern black music.

The River Roots Festival will have the Flying Houdz, a canine frisbee team and a Folk Art Village with demonstrations by a blacksmith, a rifle smith, a wood carver, a fiddle maker, a log-cabin builder, and more. Festival-goers can purchase hand-made instruments, jewelry, blown glass figures, soaps, bags, clothes, pottery, and paintings. Plein air painters will capture the event on canvas, and food and craft beverage vendors will be open throughout the day.

A festival wristband costs twenty-five dollars ($25). The public is invited to the River Roots Festival on Madison’s riverfront.

Source: River Roots Music and Folk Arts Festival (http://www.riverroots.org/)

‘Superhero’ runners contribute funds for local C.A.S.A./G.A.L. programs

On Sunday (5/19), the Southeastern Indiana Voices for Children, Incorporated and the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority will host a special run/walk event. Their “Superhero Sprint: Run for the Kids Five-K (5 km)” will be held at Hanover College. Participants can dress like a superhero for a chance to win door prizes, and the top male and female runners can win an award. The race entry fee for adults and children is twenty dollars ($20) each. Proceeds from the event will go toward the court-appointed special advocates and guardian ad litem programs in Jefferson County and Ripley County. Check-in starts at 10:30 AM, and the “Superhero Sprint” begins at 12:00 PM from Hanover College.

Source: Southeastern Indiana Voices for Children, Incorporated (http://www.seivoices.com/Images/Images/5k%20runner%20official%20form%20entry%20may%202013.doc)

K.Y.T.C. begins resurfacing work on Carlisle Rd. in Trimble Co.

This week, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will continue a road repair project in Trimble County. They’re resurfacing Carlisle Road, also known as State Road 1335. This project runs about three miles (2.8 mi.) from Connector Road to the Carroll County line. Motorists can expect lane reductions and delays during the drainage repairs on Carlisle Road.

Source: Kentucky Transportation Cabinet

Madison Railroad plans crossing improvements on Industrial Dr.

On Monday (5/20), the Madison Railroad will begin a construction project on Madison’s hilltop. They’ll improve the railroad crossing on Industrial Drive. That road will be closed from 7:00 AM until the project is complete. Motorists might need to use an alternate route to reach some homes and businesses. Weather permitting, the Madison Railroad expects to finish the crossing upgrades and re-open Industrial Drive by Friday (5/24) or Saturday (5/25).

Source: Madison Railroad

Southwestern School Board meets on Monday at elementary board room

On Monday (5/20), the Southwestern School Board will hold their regular May meeting. That starts at 5:00 PM from the elementary school boardroom.

Source: Southwestern School Corporation

Chamber hosts ‘breakfast networking’ event on Tuesday

On Tuesday (5/21), the Madison Chamber and Economic Development will host a “breakfast networking” event. Coffee and light snacks will be provided. That begins at 8:00 AM from the chamber’s downtown office.

Source: Madison Chamber and Economic Development (http://madisonindiana.com/about-us/calendar-events/#)

Children’s author reads book to youngsters at Hanover Library

On Tuesday (5/21), the Hanover Public Library will hold a special story telling event for children. Author Devon Kondaki will read from his book The Magical Bwa Bwa Fruit. This free reading is open to all families. It begins at 10:30 AM from the Hanover Library.

Source: Jefferson County Public Library (http://mjcpl.org/event/a-special-story-time-at-hanover/)

‘Re-Fashion Show’ shows clothing available at Salvation Army Thrift Store

On Tuesday (5/21), the Salvation Army Thrift Store in Madison will host its first ever “Re-Fashion Show”. Volunteer models will wear clothes for women, men, and children that are available at the Salvation Army. And, audience members can view the fashions worn by the models as they walk down the runway. They’ll serve a salad lunch, and Bill Lackner will perform live music. Luncheon tickets are five dollars ($5). The Salvation Army “Re-Fashion Show” runs from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Local residents can reserve a seat by calling (812) 265-2157.

Source: Salvation Army of Madison, Clearinghouse Project (http://library.constantcontact.com/download/get/file/1103584053080-292/Salvation+Army+-+Re+Fashion+Show.pdf)

Scott Co. women learn about ‘imagination library’ at luncheon

On Tuesday (5/21), the Scott County Community Foundation, the United Way of Scott County, and the Professional Women’s Network of Scott County will hold a luncheon for local women. A presenter will talk about the Dolly Parton Imagination Library which allows Scott County families with children under 5-years-old to receive a free book every month. These books are delivered to the child’s home. Program leaders believe the “imagination library” can provide early reading skills as kids enter kindergarten. Admission is ten dollars ($10) with a portion of the proceeds going toward the Imagination Library. The luncheon funs from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Hampton Oaks. Local women can learn more by calling (812) 752-2057.

Source: Scott County Community Foundation (http://www.scottcountyfoundation.org/women-invited-to-luncheon/)

Madison City Council holds 2nd May meeting at city hall

On Tuesday (5/21), the Madison City Council will meet for the second time in May. It starts at 5:30 PM from council chambers of City Hall.

Source: City of Madison

Hanover Town Council calls second May meeting on Tuesday

On Tuesday (5/21), the Hanover Town Council will hold their second meeting of May. It was pushed back a day this month. That meeting starts at 6:00 PM from the Hanover Municipal Building.

Source: Town of Hanover

New Jefferson Co. 4-H parents urged to attend informational event

On Tuesday (5/21), the Jefferson County-Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service will host a presentation for parents of beginning 4-H’ers. These parents can ask questions and learn more about 4-H clubs, projects, the county fair, and more. The Parent Information Night goes from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM at the Jefferson County Extension Office.

Source: Jefferson County-Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service (http://www3.ag.purdue.edu/counties/jefferson/Newsletters/May%202013%20Newsletter.pdf)

Madison Redevelopment Commission pushes May meeting back 1 week

On Wednesday (5/22), the Madison Redevelopment Commission will hold their regular May meeting. That was rescheduled from last Wednesday (5/15). Their meeting starts at 3:00 PM inside Madison City Hall.

Source: City of Madison

K.D.H. schedules free skin cancer screenings on Wednesday

On Wednesday (5/22), King’s Daughters’ Health will host another Skin Cancer Screening in Madison. That goes from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM at the K-D-H Cancer Treatment Center. Appointments are not required; screeners will see participants on a “first-come, first-served” basis. Anyone who wants to learn more about the free screening can call K-D-H at (812) 801-0541.

Source: King’s Daughters’ Health (http://kdhhs.netreturns.biz/NewsReleases/Article_Detail.aspx?id=3004634c-a993-4bd2-b565-69c97e624e2f)

Open house set for Thursday at Jennings Co. Chamber

On Thursday (5/23), the Jennings County Chamber of Commerce will host an open house. That goes from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the chamber office in North Vernon. The public is invited.

Source: Jennings County Chamber of Commerce (http://business.jenningscountychamber.com/events/details/jennings-county-chamber-of-commerce-open-house-173)

Red Cross schedules blood drive at Madison Public Library

On Thursday (5/23), the American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at the Madison Public Library. The “Jefferson County Donorama” goes from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The Red Cross recommends eating iron-rich foods and drinking plenty of water before giving blood. Donors must be at least 17-years-old and weigh at least one-hundred-ten pounds (110 lbs.). Bring a photo I-D or a donor card to the blood drive.

Source: American Red Cross (http://www.redcrossblood.org/make-donation), Jefferson County Public Library (http://mjcpl.org/event/red-cross-blood-drive-at-madison/)

Trimble Co. Library explains online photo management system

On Thursday (5/23), the Trimble County Public Library will hold a class about a web-based photo management system. Beginners can learn how to edit and sort photographs by using Google Picasa. This free class goes from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at the Trimble County Library.

Source: Trimble County Public Library (http://www1.youseemore.com/trimble/)

Spring Old Court Days held around Jefferson Co. Courthouse

This weekend, the Pilot Club of Madison will hold their 46th annual Spring Old Court Days. That goes from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Friday (5/24), Saturday (5/25), and Sunday (5/26) around the Jefferson County Courthouse and the parking lot at Second Street and Jefferson Street. Vendors will display their crafts and products that are available for purchase. And, they’ll have a wide variety of foods and beverages. The sales revenue goes to the vendors, but proceeds from the space rentals will benefit the Pilot Club for their scholarships and brain research. The Old Court Days event is free to attend.

Source: Madison Convention and Visitors Bureau

American Red Cross sets blood drive @ Jefferson-Craig Firehouse

On Friday (5/24), the American Red Cross will hold a blood drive in Vevay. Donors can give blood at the Jefferson-Craig Firehouse from 2:00 PM to 6:30 PM. Local residents can give blood and monetary donations to help the Switzerland County High School scholarship drive. The Red Cross recommends eating iron-rich foods and drinking plenty of water before giving blood. Donors must be at least 17-years-old and weigh at least one-hundred-ten pounds (110 lbs.). Bring a photo I-D or a donor card to the blood drive.

Source: American Red Cross (http://www.redcrossblood.org/make-donation)

Historic Madison, Incorporated seeks nominees for Reindollar Award

Friday (5/24) marks the nomination deadline for the 2013 Dorothy Reindollar Preservation Award. Historic Madison, Incorporated will recognize an individual or organization for “exemplary preservation or restoration accomplishments” in Jefferson County. Anyone can submit a nomination by writing a description of the nominee and including letters of support, photographs, and news stories. Self-nominations can be accepted. The nomination forms are available at the H-M-I offices, Madison City Hall, and the Madison Visitors Center. H-M-I must receive all nominations for the Reindollar Award by 4:30 PM.

Source: Historic Madison, Incorporated, Clearinghouse Project (http://library.constantcontact.com/download/get/file/1103584053080-301/HMI+-+Reindollar+Award+nomination+form+2013.pdf)

Hanover College students begin ‘Summer Break’ on Friday afternoon

On Friday (5/24), students at Hanover College will begin their “Summer Break”. Their spring term ended this week. Some Hanover College students will return for their fall semester on Labor Day.

Source: Hanover College (http://www.hanover.edu/docs/AcademicCalendar12-13.pdf)

Trimble County students enjoy summer break after Friday

Friday (5/24) is the final day of the semester for students at Trimble County Schools. Those students will be on summer break until the first day of their fall semester on Wednesday, August 7th.

Source: Trimble County Schools

Madison Main St. sets ‘Fourth Friday Art Jam’ with ‘Alley Art Fair’

On Friday (5/24), the Madison Main Street Program will host their Fourth Friday “Art Jam”. Many Main Street stores will feature special prices and extended hours. Visitors can enjoy live music and free rides aboard the Madison Trolley. And, the Madison Art Club will host their “Alley Art Fair” near the art gallery on West Main Street. Local artists will sell their drawings, paintings, and more.

The Main Street “Art Jam” goes from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on the fourth Friday of each month.

Source: Madison Main Street Program (http://www.madisonmainstreet.com/), Madison Art Club (https://sites.google.com/site/artclubofmadisonindiana/)

Little Grand Theatre performs ‘Lend Me a Tenor’ at Ohio Theatre

This weekend, the Little Grand Theatre Company will perform a comedy in downtown Madison. They’ll present the show “Lend Me a Tenor” at the Main House of the Ohio Theatre. The show features a romantic encounters and funny situations in a Cleveland hotel suite as an opera singer prepares for his performance.

Showtimes are Friday (5/24) and Saturday (5/25) at 7:00 PM and a Sunday (5/26) matinée at 2:30 PM. Tickets are ten dollars ($10) for adults and five dollars ($5) for primary and secondary students. The show is recommended for viewers over 13-years-old. The public is invited to “Lend Me a Tenor” at the Ohio Theatre.

Source: Little Grand Theatre Company (http://www.lgtc.org/)