Purdue University's Technical Assistance Program has opened a new office in Rising Sun, Ind.
Sean Furlow, the program's manufacturing services account manager, will help boost the global competitiveness of southeast Indiana manufacturers, including automotive suppliers for Honda Motor Corp. Furlow will connect companies with Purdue resources and assist them in implementing state-of-the-art technologies.
He also will work with the National Institute of Standards and Technology Manufacturing Extension Partnership and the Indiana Economic Development Corp., with which the Technical Assistance Program is a state partner. Through this network, companies will receive assistance in work force, energy, quality, productivity and other assessment, educational and implementation services.
"Smaller companies in southeast Indiana can especially benefit from these services because many don't have enough personnel to tackle certain projects," Furlow said. "The ultimate goal is to help manufacturers develop a highly skilled, proficient work force, decrease costs and boost sales."
Dave Snow, Manufacturing Extension Partnership Center director, said Furlow has the ability to assess and meet manufacturers' needs.
"Sean rose quickly to the top of the selection process because of a demonstrated knowledge about the competitive aspects of manufacturing and his ability to articulate a vision of how his experience will enhance regional success in manufacturing," Snow said.
Technical Assistance Program director Dave McKinnis said Purdue has taken another major step toward developing the university's regional economic development partnerships.
"Purdue offers a such extensive expertise in engineering, technology and business-related issues," McKinnis said. "We also have contacts through out Statewide Technology system, which offers technology-related courses in communities such as Columbus, Anderson and Greensburg. To put that knowledge to work by helping manufacturers in and around Rising Sun is very rewarding."
Furlow most recently worked at Teleflex Aerospace in Cincinnati, as well as Arvin Sango and Century Tube of Madison, Ind., for which he worked in industrial sales and marketing. He holds a bachelor's degree from Xavier University, where he also plans to complete his MBA in May.
The Rising Sun office is funded by grants from the Rising Sun Regional Foundation and the city of Rising Sun. The Technical Assistance Program also recently opened three new offices in Merrillville, Anderson and Fort Wayne and plans to establish an office at the Purdue Technology Center of Southern Indiana in New Albany and other industrial regions.
December 15, 2006
December 4, 2006
Casino towns to keep revenue - for now
Fiscal leaders in the Indiana Senate say they have no plans to take casino tax revenue from local communities and use the money to boost the state budget or redistribute it to other areas.
Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Bob Meeks, R-LaGrange, said he will not suggest the proposal during the upcoming legislative session, which begins in January.
“I raised all that hell last time,” Meeks said. “I’m not going to do it again.”
Riverboat casinos bring about $235 million in wagering and admission taxes to cities and counties each year. State law dictates how governments must share the money, but local communities also sign development agreements with the casinos that bring millions for foundations, governments and other organizations.
Some lawmakers say the casinos have generated far more revenue than they expected, and that host communities should share the wealth.
Lawrenceburg has been a focus for some critics. The city received more than $25 million in admissions and wagering tax revenues in fiscal year 2006, according to the State Budget Agency, and also receives tens of millions from a local development agreement.
“They have so much they don’t know what to do with it,” Kenley said.
That's why he and Meeks hatched the plan two years ago to cap the tax revenue that local governments can keep and use the rest to shore up the state budget. A similar plan in the House — then controlled by Republicans — would have redistributed the money to other local governments.
Under the Senate plan, Lawrenceburg would have lost all but $2million in tax revenue. Harrison County would have lost about $19million annually, or 80 percent of casino tax receipts.
Switzerland County would have lost about $5.9million each year. Ohio County and Rising Sun would have lost nearly $5.9million.
Although lawmakers do not have plans to change the system this year, casino communities are working to share money with neighbors and spend their money carefully, said Harrison County Council President Gary Davis.
Harrison County shares 18 percent of its take from casino taxes with 10 small towns in the county, Crawford, Washington and Floyd counties, and New Albany. But Lawrenceburg was not so generous. To try to appease lawmakers, Lawrenceburg Mayor Bill Cunningham developed a plan for sharing about $10million of the city's casino cash annually for area economic development projects.
When the state began courting Honda Motor Corp. to build a plant in Greensburg, not too far from Lawrenceburg, the governor went to Cunningham, who agreed to contribute the $10million toward incentives for the project.
Daniels said then that the move should help stave off legislative efforts to redistribute the local revenue.
"What Lawrenceburg's done has really helped," Switzerland County Council President Mike Jones said. "But it's an issue we still need to watch."
Last week Meeks said that has made a difference.
"There's been a change in their attitude in how they spend the money," he said.
But Rep. Dennie Oxley, D-English, said there probably always will be some threat.
"As long as there's a pot of money sitting out there — as there is — and the state of Indiana is facing tough economic times, then that pot of money will be looked at by the legislature, just as it was two years ago," Oxley said.
But he said it won't pass this year and won't even be considered in the House.
The representative who most ardently pushed the plan in 2004 — Republican Troy Woodruff of Vincennes — lost in the November election. And Democrats took control of the House.
The threat of lawmakers taking away the money has made it difficult to make long-range plans.
But one senator says casino communities shouldn’t get too comfortable with the large amounts of tax money the casinos bring them.
“Nothing is off the table forever,” said Senate Tax Committee Chairman Luke Kenley, R-Noblesville.
Senate Republicans in 2004 supported a budget proposal that would have capped the amount of tax revenue that casino communities could keep, using the rest for the state budget. The idea died after the communities, their lawmakers and Gov. Mitch Daniels opposed the idea.
Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Bob Meeks, R-LaGrange, said he will not suggest the proposal during the upcoming legislative session, which begins in January.
“I raised all that hell last time,” Meeks said. “I’m not going to do it again.”
Riverboat casinos bring about $235 million in wagering and admission taxes to cities and counties each year. State law dictates how governments must share the money, but local communities also sign development agreements with the casinos that bring millions for foundations, governments and other organizations.
Some lawmakers say the casinos have generated far more revenue than they expected, and that host communities should share the wealth.
Lawrenceburg has been a focus for some critics. The city received more than $25 million in admissions and wagering tax revenues in fiscal year 2006, according to the State Budget Agency, and also receives tens of millions from a local development agreement.
“They have so much they don’t know what to do with it,” Kenley said.
That's why he and Meeks hatched the plan two years ago to cap the tax revenue that local governments can keep and use the rest to shore up the state budget. A similar plan in the House — then controlled by Republicans — would have redistributed the money to other local governments.
Under the Senate plan, Lawrenceburg would have lost all but $2million in tax revenue. Harrison County would have lost about $19million annually, or 80 percent of casino tax receipts.
Switzerland County would have lost about $5.9million each year. Ohio County and Rising Sun would have lost nearly $5.9million.
Although lawmakers do not have plans to change the system this year, casino communities are working to share money with neighbors and spend their money carefully, said Harrison County Council President Gary Davis.
Harrison County shares 18 percent of its take from casino taxes with 10 small towns in the county, Crawford, Washington and Floyd counties, and New Albany. But Lawrenceburg was not so generous. To try to appease lawmakers, Lawrenceburg Mayor Bill Cunningham developed a plan for sharing about $10million of the city's casino cash annually for area economic development projects.
When the state began courting Honda Motor Corp. to build a plant in Greensburg, not too far from Lawrenceburg, the governor went to Cunningham, who agreed to contribute the $10million toward incentives for the project.
Daniels said then that the move should help stave off legislative efforts to redistribute the local revenue.
"What Lawrenceburg's done has really helped," Switzerland County Council President Mike Jones said. "But it's an issue we still need to watch."
Last week Meeks said that has made a difference.
"There's been a change in their attitude in how they spend the money," he said.
But Rep. Dennie Oxley, D-English, said there probably always will be some threat.
"As long as there's a pot of money sitting out there — as there is — and the state of Indiana is facing tough economic times, then that pot of money will be looked at by the legislature, just as it was two years ago," Oxley said.
But he said it won't pass this year and won't even be considered in the House.
The representative who most ardently pushed the plan in 2004 — Republican Troy Woodruff of Vincennes — lost in the November election. And Democrats took control of the House.
Those Democrats stood firm — with a couple of Republicans, including Billy Bright of North Vernon, who also was defeated — against the redistribution plan in 2004. Oxley said nothing has changed.
"Now that Democrats are in control, I don't foresee that coming up this year," he said.
The threat of lawmakers taking away the money has made it difficult to make long-range plans.
“Quite frankly, I wish they’d make up their minds one way or another,” he said. “Either tell communities they will keep receiving the funds or make a change and be done with it.”
Rep. Dennie Oxley, D-English, said the House would not consider such a proposal in the upcoming session, but said the issue would not fade away.
“As long as there’s a pot of money sitting out there as there is and the state of Indiana is facing tough economic times, then that pot of money will be looked at by the legislature, just as it was two years ago,” Oxley said.
October 23, 2006
Clark County votes on Casino Boat
Dale Moss of the Louisville Courier-Journel discusses the upcoming Riverboat referendum in Clark County and wonders why the locals don't seem to be pushing very much:
At a time when these groups and governments should lead, they are instead on the sidelines. Rather than risk upsetting somebody, they inspire nobody. Their reluctance is as if virgins, not paychecks, would be sacrificed at the river.
"At this point, there doesn't appear to be any possibility," said Jim Keith, executive director of the convention and tourism bureau.
"It's hard to get excited about that," said Paul Kraft, president of the Clarksville Town Council.
Democrats supposedly worry that the referendum will fire up conservatives to oppose it, and that might benefit Republicans. But Rod Pate, the Democratic chairman in Clark, furthers instead the why-bother philosophy.
"Most people realize it (a casino) is almost as elusive as the Easter bunny," he said.
Once a casino for Clark County is possible, though, momentum is probable. The success of gambling across from downtown Louisville is too much a sure thing.
Enticing for an existing boat to move? One, the Grand Victoria in Ohio County by Cincinnati, is for sale. Enticing for the state to award an additional license? Lawmakers could opt for such a high-dollar revenue shot over a tax increase.
Good questions, these are, and worthy of the debate and exploration that the current stealth campaign fails to offer. Even anti-gambling churchgoers softball their sell. They have no one with whom to argue.
"I have no idea how people will react," said Ed Feigenbaum, editor of the Indiana Gaming Insight newsletter.
Feigenbaum guessed that there would be a higher profile -- some profile -- for Clark's boat vote. After all, a casino really could materialize. It's not likely for now, Feigenbaum said, "but it's real fun to pontificate."
As did Floyd County, Clark rejected riverboat gambling twice in the 1990s. By law, it has had to wait a decade for another try. In the meantime, Harrison County has undergone a most-impressive ultimate makeover with its cut of the take from the Caesars Indiana casino.
Better roads, schools, firetrucks, water works, Little League diamonds, you name it -- prosperity like Harrison's could be in Clark's sights. Only Caesars itself might have more to lose.
The casino company could be appeased, however, by being allowed to branch out into Clark. Preposterous, perhaps. But Feigenbaum reminds that this is uncharted territory. History is to be made.
"A lot of people are sitting back, saying 'Let's just wait and see what the new environment is going to be,' " Feigenbaum said.
Walter Schulz, a dedicated foe of the casinos, is afraid to equate a lack of loud boat boosters for a lack of boosters. Schulz asks people on his side not to be lulled into overconfidence.
"You never know," he said.
Every Tom, Dick and recorder candidate decorates Clark County with campaign signs.
Meanwhile, the race that could matter most is being run in the dark.
On Nov. 7 Clark County voters can agree to be host to a casino boat, which would jolt the economy like nothing else can. Yet One Southern Indiana is one mute group of business boosters on the prospect. A boat would end up in Clarksville or in Jeffersonville. Yet neither community rolls out a red carpet even as it would for a Dairy Queen.
At a time when these groups and governments should lead, they are instead on the sidelines. Rather than risk upsetting somebody, they inspire nobody. Their reluctance is as if virgins, not paychecks, would be sacrificed at the river.
The public's endorsement guarantees nothing. It is hypothetical. A string of dominoes still must fall over for a boat actually to dock in Clark County. Which is the stated reason why its potential proponents choose not to stoke the fires. Why fight when meaningful victory may prove hopeless?
"At this point, there doesn't appear to be any possibility," said Jim Keith, executive director of the convention and tourism bureau.
"It's hard to get excited about that," said Paul Kraft, president of the Clarksville Town Council.
Democrats supposedly worry that the referendum will fire up conservatives to oppose it, and that might benefit Republicans. But Rod Pate, the Democratic chairman in Clark, furthers instead the why-bother philosophy.
"Most people realize it (a casino) is almost as elusive as the Easter bunny," he said.
Once a casino for Clark County is possible, though, momentum is probable. The success of gambling across from downtown Louisville is too much a sure thing.
Enticing for an existing boat to move? One, the Grand Victoria in Ohio County by Cincinnati, is for sale. Enticing for the state to award an additional license? Lawmakers could opt for such a high-dollar revenue shot over a tax increase.
Good questions, these are, and worthy of the debate and exploration that the current stealth campaign fails to offer. Even anti-gambling churchgoers softball their sell. They have no one with whom to argue.
"I have no idea how people will react," said Ed Feigenbaum, editor of the Indiana Gaming Insight newsletter.
Feigenbaum guessed that there would be a higher profile -- some profile -- for Clark's boat vote. After all, a casino really could materialize. It's not likely for now, Feigenbaum said, "but it's real fun to pontificate."
As did Floyd County, Clark rejected riverboat gambling twice in the 1990s. By law, it has had to wait a decade for another try. In the meantime, Harrison County has undergone a most-impressive ultimate makeover with its cut of the take from the Caesars Indiana casino.
Better roads, schools, firetrucks, water works, Little League diamonds, you name it -- prosperity like Harrison's could be in Clark's sights. Only Caesars itself might have more to lose.
The casino company could be appeased, however, by being allowed to branch out into Clark. Preposterous, perhaps. But Feigenbaum reminds that this is uncharted territory. History is to be made.
"A lot of people are sitting back, saying 'Let's just wait and see what the new environment is going to be,' " Feigenbaum said.
Walter Schulz, a dedicated foe of the casinos, is afraid to equate a lack of loud boat boosters for a lack of boosters. Schulz asks people on his side not to be lulled into overconfidence.
"You never know," he said.
October 2, 2006
CHAMBER IS HOSTING MEET THE CANDIDATES FORUM
Rising Sun, Indiana, October 2, 2006 — The Rising Sun - Ohio County Chamber of Commerce is extending an invitation to all Ohio County candidates seeking an elected position in the 2006 general election to participate in a Meet the Candidates Forum. The forum will allow candidates to introduce themselves and address Chamber members concerning their positions on community issues in an informal panel discussion. Audience members will have the opportunity to write down questions to be addressed by the candidates. Candidates will then be able to read the questions prior to answering.
The forum will take place Monday, October 9, 2006 at 7:00PM in the Commissioner’s Room of the Ohio County Courthouse.
The Rising Sun Ohio County Chamber of Commerce currently has over 50 members and is growing every day. We hope this evening will be an opportunity for candidates to meet our members and discuss community issues that are important to us all.
The Rising Sun - Ohio County Chamber of Commerce represents Ohio County's diverse and dynamic business community. The Chamber is a member-supported business organization working to maintain a healthy economy by bringing business and industry to the area, helping established firms grow and building the community through outreach and service. For additional information, Contact: Stephanie Scott, Governmental Affairs Co-Chair, Rising Sun - Ohio County Chamber of Commerce at 812 438-9401 or info@risingsunchamber.com . #####
The forum will take place Monday, October 9, 2006 at 7:00PM in the Commissioner’s Room of the Ohio County Courthouse.
The Rising Sun Ohio County Chamber of Commerce currently has over 50 members and is growing every day. We hope this evening will be an opportunity for candidates to meet our members and discuss community issues that are important to us all.
The Rising Sun - Ohio County Chamber of Commerce represents Ohio County's diverse and dynamic business community. The Chamber is a member-supported business organization working to maintain a healthy economy by bringing business and industry to the area, helping established firms grow and building the community through outreach and service. For additional information, Contact: Stephanie Scott, Governmental Affairs Co-Chair, Rising Sun - Ohio County Chamber of Commerce at 812 438-9401 or info@risingsunchamber.com . #####
September 19, 2006
The Cincinnati Post reports that gaming advocates will try again in the 2007 General Assembly to win approval for casinos in Kentucky.
But a Northern Kentucky legislator who backs the change said he doubts it will be approved because House and Senate leaders don't favor it.
Rep. Jon Draud, R-Edgewood, said he believes Kentucky eventually will have casino gambling.
"But I don't think anything is going to happen with casino gambling in the 2007 legislative session because it doesn't have the support of Senate or House leadership," Draud said.
"You can't get things done if leadership doesn't support it."
However, Draud said he expects things to change in late 2007 and 2008. The next governor's race will be in the fall of 2007, and by the time the 2008 General Assembly begins a new governor could be in office.
"I think casino gambling will become a major issue in the governor's race, and it could get on the ballot in 2008," he said.
"I think we eventually will have casino gambling in the state. That's why I think the issue needs to be kept before the public. I think it should be a business decision instead of a morality issue. So much of our money in Northern Kentucky goes over to casinos in Indiana."
September 9, 2006
Round-the-clock eatery eyeing the area
Huddle House, an Atlanta family restaurant chain known for its large menu of traditional fare sold around the clock, is looking for franchisees so it can expand into Cincinnati.
The 40-year-old company wants to open five locations in the market and is targeting Batavia, Fairfield, Wilmington, Lebanon and Lawrenceburg.
"We chose the Cincinnati area for new franchise locations because it's a perfect match for Huddle House's criteria in terms of population size and the lifestyle of area residents," Philip Greifeld, CEO of Huddle House, said in a press release.
The chain, which operates 410 locations in 16 states in the Southeast, Missouri and mid-Atlantic, posted 2005 sales of $230 million. It is entering Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kansas and Oklahoma as part of its growth plan.
The 40-year-old company wants to open five locations in the market and is targeting Batavia, Fairfield, Wilmington, Lebanon and Lawrenceburg.
"We chose the Cincinnati area for new franchise locations because it's a perfect match for Huddle House's criteria in terms of population size and the lifestyle of area residents," Philip Greifeld, CEO of Huddle House, said in a press release.
The chain, which operates 410 locations in 16 states in the Southeast, Missouri and mid-Atlantic, posted 2005 sales of $230 million. It is entering Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kansas and Oklahoma as part of its growth plan.
September 8, 2006
Development program flourishes in new location
The Purdue Student newspaper (The Exponent) reports on the opening of the new TAPS office in Rising Sun saying:
The Purdue Technical Assistance Program has continued its expansion across the state with a new office opening in Rising Sun, Ind.
The program works on economic development in Indiana with businesses and hospitals by improving quality, lowering costs and helping businesses become more competitive, said David McKinnis, director of the program.
The Rising Sun office is expected to open by November, making it the fourth new office this year, joining locations in Merrillville, Fort Wayne and Anderson, he said.
"These retail offices are primarily involved in serving the local manufacturing factor. Indiana is a large manufacturing state," said McKinnis. "There are clusters of companies throughout the state. One exception is Rising Sun, which today does not have a lot of manufacturing, but that is going to change soon because a Honda plant is being built in that region of the state."
TAP is under high demand; throughout the state, businesses, hospitals and high-tech companies are seeking input and assistance from Purdue University. The program has a very positive impact on jobs and wages throughout Indiana, McKinnis said.
Chad Sweeney, chief financial officer and counsel of Indiana Economic Development Corporation, said the new offices give better coverage for a manufacturing-dependent state.
"There's obvious holes there (South Bend and Southern Indiana)."
He said he hopes the program will continue to open new locations, reach more clients and become a valuable resource.
September 7, 2006
Ohio Valley River Cats Catfish Tournament
The Ohio Valley River Cats Catfish Club will hold an open team catfish tournament on Saturday September 9th from 8 am to 4 pm at the Rising Sun City Boat ramp. First place will receive $1,000, Second $500.00, Third $250.00 and $500.00 will awarded for biggest fish. The prize money is guaranteed and the event is sponsored by the City of Rising Sun's Mayor's Office. Call Frank for information at 812 438-3771 or 812 584-2135.
September 5, 2006
'It'll feel better when it quits hurting'
The Lexington Hearld-Leader reports on the funeral of Rising Sun native, Larry Turner saying:
White linen handkerchiefs were placed in the chairs of Larry Turner's wife, two daughters and son before his funeral, because at times like these people forget the things they'll need the most.
They were placed there by Rebecca Hatton, guest services director at Southland Christian Church. She then put 75 individual mini-packs of Kleenex in the chairs set aside for the rest of Larry Turner's extended family. "Do you know how I knew how to do that?" Hatton said. "Because somebody did it for me when my mom passed away."
Over the weekend, she will do the same thing at least twice for the families of victims of Flight 5191. Over the next week, three or four more victims will be mourned at Lexington's largest church.
Last Sunday, we were a state in shock. We are now a state in mourning.
Yesterday, (Friday) a slow caravan left Southland Christian for the long ride to Larry Turner's Indiana hometown and the place he learned to farm with his father, Roy. It's a town called Rising Sun.
Wayne Turner, speaking at his brother's service, said Roy often told his sons that there is always hope if you keep your eyes on the horizon.
His father's words will have special resonance all week in the Bluegrass.
Said Roy many times: "It'll feel better when it quits hurting."
That may be a while. As Judge Tim Philpot, who eulogized Turner, told the gathering of 1,200: "We've lost 49 people. We're weeping for our own friend, Larry, but we are weeping for Lexington. We are weeping for Kentucky."
August 29, 2006
Ivy Tech Community College President Gerald I. Lamkin to Retire Next Year
INDIANAPOLIS-- Gerald I. Lamkin, whose leadership took Ivy Tech from a vocational school to the state’s community college which currently services over 100,000 students annually and offers over 150 degree programs, will step down as the college’s President and the President of the Ivy Tech Foundation on June 30, 2007.
Lamkin, announced his plans today (August 28) after serving has Ivy Tech Community College’s President since January 1, 1983. He is the longest standing current president of a public institution of higher education in the state and has been a member of the Ivy Tech staff in various capacities since 1967.
“My time at Ivy Tech has been the most rewarding times of my life. We have made tremendous strides in establishing an effective and enriching community college system for the state of Indiana. In order for the state to reach its economic and workforce development goals, Ivy Tech must be in a position to provide the training and education that is needed to prepare thousands of Hoosiers for the jobs of the future. I am so proud to say that Ivy Tech Community College can, and will continue to deliver on this important role in our higher education system,” Lamkin said. “It has always been about the students for me. Having seen nearly 250 graduations, there is nothing that matches the joyful celebrations that take place at Ivy Tech graduation ceremonies. That may be what I will miss the most as I leave this terrific community college.”
Under Lamkin’s leadership as President, Ivy Tech has seen its enrollment increase by over 300 percent to nearly 106,000 students annually, making Ivy Tech the second largest post secondary institution in the state. When Lamkin was named President, of what was then named Indiana Vocational Technical College, Ivy Tech had an operating budget of $42.6 million. The school became Ivy Tech State College in 1995 and in 2005 Governor Mitch Daniels signed Senate Bill 296 making Ivy Tech the state’s community college and thus changing its name to Ivy Tech Community College. Today Ivy Tech has an operating budget of $267.7 million.
“Very few people who have a dream get to see it become real. Gerald Lamkin is the father of the community college system in Indiana. He has led Ivy Tech to its central position in the economic future of Indiana,” Governor Mitch Daniels said.
“President Lamkin’s leadership is unmatched. He took what was a dream of his, to create a full-service community college, and made it a reality for thousands of Hoosiers around the state. It does not do justice to say Ivy Tech is a better community college because President Lamkin instead it is fair to say that Ivy Tech IS a community college because of President Lamkin. The trustees will be forever grateful to him and his wife Louise for their dedication to Ivy Tech, its faculty and staff and most importantly its students,” said Ivy Tech Community College State Board of Trustees’ Chairman William R. Goins.
Just as enrollment has increased during Lamkin’s tenure so to have the contributions made to the Ivy Tech Foundation increasing from just over $350,000 to over $13.5 million. In addition the total net assets the Foundation manages have increased from $1.24 million in 1983 to over $46.7 million this year.
“It has truly been a pleasure for me to be able to work side by side with President Lamkin. He has helped mold higher education in Indiana. His solid reputation and connections have helped us reach out to individuals and companies who have invested in Ivy Tech and its students,” said Ivy Tech Foundation Chairman Cornelia Brown.
Ivy Tech Community College is comprised of 14 administrative regions and 23 campuses throughout the state. One of Lamkin’s key objectives as President has always been to provide access to affordable education to Hoosiers around the state. Ivy Tech has consistently had the state’s lowest tuition and the support for Ivy Tech in communities around Indiana has seen the college increase from 153 buildings owned and/or leased in 1983 to 216 buildings today, an increase of over 40 percent. Capital projects approved for Ivy Tech over the last 24+ years have totaled over $320.2 million.
“On behalf of our students I want to thank all of the communities and government leaders that have embraced and supported Ivy Tech. Because we have been able to increase the number of locations where Ivy Tech courses are offered, we have been able to provide higher education to thousands of Indiana residents,” Lamkin said.
Since 1983 nearly 750,000 Hoosiers have attended Ivy Tech.
Lamkin first become a member of the Ivy Tech staff in 1967 as an accounting and management instructor in Indianapolis. For the next five years he served as the Accounting and Management Chair, Director of Education, Business Manager and Director of Community Services in Indianapolis and as the Director of Development for the Anderson, Marion and Muncie campuses. In 1972 he was named Vice President for the college and Dean for the Anderson, Connersville, Marion, Muncie and Richmond campuses, He served in that capacity for seven years. In 1979 he was named Vice President for Regional Operations and performed those duties until being named President in 1983.
A national search will be conducted for Lamkin’s replacement. President Lamkin will serve as the President-emeritus.
Lamkin, who is 70 years old, was born in Rising Sun, Indiana and he and his wife, Louise, have two children and three grandchildren.
GERALD I. LAMKIN
President of Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana
President of Ivy Tech Foundation
1967-1972 Accounting and Management Instructor, Region 8 (Indianapolis) (sequential) Accounting and Management Chair, Region 8 Director of Education, Region 8 Business Manager, Region 8 Director of Development, Region 6 (Muncie/Anderson/Marion) Director of Community Services, Region 8
1972-1979 Vice President/Dean, Region 6 and Region 9 (Richmond/Connersville)
1979-1982 Vice President/Regional Operations, all (then 13) regions Jan. 1, 1983 Is selected new president of Indiana Vocational Technical College from a field of 162 applicants and 25 final candidates. “Ivy Tech is a way of life,” said the new president. “I saw it as a dream. It looked to me like a challenge with tremendous potential.” Establishes Business and Industry Training Division (now Workforce and Economic Development), which begins its services with contract training. Establishes new priorities for Ivy Tech: 1. Establish one-college organizational concept 2. Improve Ivy Tech’s public image 3. Secure more funding 4. Identify areas in need of extensive re-organization
1984 Secures approval of first college-wide budget and legislative plan.
1985 For the first time, the legislature authorizes a budget providing major funding for quality improvements.
1987 Gains approval for Ivy Tech to begin offering limited number of Associate of Science degree programs in addition to existing Associate of Applied Science programs.
1991 Annual enrollment hits 50,000.
1992 Supports and gains legislative approval for 30 hours of credit transfers among all Indiana public higher education institutions.
1993 Commission for Higher Education (CHE) approves apprenticeship program certificate and degree programs.
1994 Secures statewide North Central Association accreditation as a single institution for the first time.
1995 Gains General Assembly approval of legislation changing institution’s name to “Ivy Tech State College.”
1998 Gains CHE approval to expand apprenticeship programs to new skill areas and additional regions. Secures North Central Association approval for several degree programs to be offered wholly through distance education.
1999 Community College system established on 10 Ivy Tech campuses in partnership with Vincennes University. Secures statewide dual credit program with high schools.
2000 Leads trustees to pass resolution creating college’s 14th region, in Bloomington.
2001 Annual enrollment hits 75,000. Introduces degree-granting programs to trade apprentices and journeymen through distance learning program.
2002 Secures joint resolution by Ivy Tech and VU trustees giving Ivy Tech sole responsibility to manage CC partnership.
2003 Leads statewide celebration of 40th anniversary of Ivy Tech’s founding. Unveils long-range strategic vision for the college.
2004 Annual enrollment hits 100,000. Governor announces Ivy Tech will be Indiana’s sole community college. Legislative committees approve expansion of community college programs to all 23 Ivy Tech campuses. CHE approves nine A.A./A.S. liberal arts concentrations for all 23 campuses.
2005 U.S. Department of Education gives approval for Ivy Tech to offer financial aid to liberal arts students. North Central Association conducts formal visit and authorizes Ivy Tech to offer accredited A.A. degree at all campuses. Senate Bill 296, making Ivy Tech the state’s community college system, passes legislature and is signed by governor.
2006 Annual for-credit headcount enrollment goes over 105,000.
Source: Ivy Tech Community College
Lamkin, announced his plans today (August 28) after serving has Ivy Tech Community College’s President since January 1, 1983. He is the longest standing current president of a public institution of higher education in the state and has been a member of the Ivy Tech staff in various capacities since 1967.
“My time at Ivy Tech has been the most rewarding times of my life. We have made tremendous strides in establishing an effective and enriching community college system for the state of Indiana. In order for the state to reach its economic and workforce development goals, Ivy Tech must be in a position to provide the training and education that is needed to prepare thousands of Hoosiers for the jobs of the future. I am so proud to say that Ivy Tech Community College can, and will continue to deliver on this important role in our higher education system,” Lamkin said. “It has always been about the students for me. Having seen nearly 250 graduations, there is nothing that matches the joyful celebrations that take place at Ivy Tech graduation ceremonies. That may be what I will miss the most as I leave this terrific community college.”
Under Lamkin’s leadership as President, Ivy Tech has seen its enrollment increase by over 300 percent to nearly 106,000 students annually, making Ivy Tech the second largest post secondary institution in the state. When Lamkin was named President, of what was then named Indiana Vocational Technical College, Ivy Tech had an operating budget of $42.6 million. The school became Ivy Tech State College in 1995 and in 2005 Governor Mitch Daniels signed Senate Bill 296 making Ivy Tech the state’s community college and thus changing its name to Ivy Tech Community College. Today Ivy Tech has an operating budget of $267.7 million.
“Very few people who have a dream get to see it become real. Gerald Lamkin is the father of the community college system in Indiana. He has led Ivy Tech to its central position in the economic future of Indiana,” Governor Mitch Daniels said.
“President Lamkin’s leadership is unmatched. He took what was a dream of his, to create a full-service community college, and made it a reality for thousands of Hoosiers around the state. It does not do justice to say Ivy Tech is a better community college because President Lamkin instead it is fair to say that Ivy Tech IS a community college because of President Lamkin. The trustees will be forever grateful to him and his wife Louise for their dedication to Ivy Tech, its faculty and staff and most importantly its students,” said Ivy Tech Community College State Board of Trustees’ Chairman William R. Goins.
Just as enrollment has increased during Lamkin’s tenure so to have the contributions made to the Ivy Tech Foundation increasing from just over $350,000 to over $13.5 million. In addition the total net assets the Foundation manages have increased from $1.24 million in 1983 to over $46.7 million this year.
“It has truly been a pleasure for me to be able to work side by side with President Lamkin. He has helped mold higher education in Indiana. His solid reputation and connections have helped us reach out to individuals and companies who have invested in Ivy Tech and its students,” said Ivy Tech Foundation Chairman Cornelia Brown.
Ivy Tech Community College is comprised of 14 administrative regions and 23 campuses throughout the state. One of Lamkin’s key objectives as President has always been to provide access to affordable education to Hoosiers around the state. Ivy Tech has consistently had the state’s lowest tuition and the support for Ivy Tech in communities around Indiana has seen the college increase from 153 buildings owned and/or leased in 1983 to 216 buildings today, an increase of over 40 percent. Capital projects approved for Ivy Tech over the last 24+ years have totaled over $320.2 million.
“On behalf of our students I want to thank all of the communities and government leaders that have embraced and supported Ivy Tech. Because we have been able to increase the number of locations where Ivy Tech courses are offered, we have been able to provide higher education to thousands of Indiana residents,” Lamkin said.
Since 1983 nearly 750,000 Hoosiers have attended Ivy Tech.
Lamkin first become a member of the Ivy Tech staff in 1967 as an accounting and management instructor in Indianapolis. For the next five years he served as the Accounting and Management Chair, Director of Education, Business Manager and Director of Community Services in Indianapolis and as the Director of Development for the Anderson, Marion and Muncie campuses. In 1972 he was named Vice President for the college and Dean for the Anderson, Connersville, Marion, Muncie and Richmond campuses, He served in that capacity for seven years. In 1979 he was named Vice President for Regional Operations and performed those duties until being named President in 1983.
A national search will be conducted for Lamkin’s replacement. President Lamkin will serve as the President-emeritus.
Lamkin, who is 70 years old, was born in Rising Sun, Indiana and he and his wife, Louise, have two children and three grandchildren.
GERALD I. LAMKIN
President of Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana
President of Ivy Tech Foundation
1967-1972 Accounting and Management Instructor, Region 8 (Indianapolis) (sequential) Accounting and Management Chair, Region 8 Director of Education, Region 8 Business Manager, Region 8 Director of Development, Region 6 (Muncie/Anderson/Marion) Director of Community Services, Region 8
1972-1979 Vice President/Dean, Region 6 and Region 9 (Richmond/Connersville)
1979-1982 Vice President/Regional Operations, all (then 13) regions Jan. 1, 1983 Is selected new president of Indiana Vocational Technical College from a field of 162 applicants and 25 final candidates. “Ivy Tech is a way of life,” said the new president. “I saw it as a dream. It looked to me like a challenge with tremendous potential.” Establishes Business and Industry Training Division (now Workforce and Economic Development), which begins its services with contract training. Establishes new priorities for Ivy Tech: 1. Establish one-college organizational concept 2. Improve Ivy Tech’s public image 3. Secure more funding 4. Identify areas in need of extensive re-organization
1984 Secures approval of first college-wide budget and legislative plan.
1985 For the first time, the legislature authorizes a budget providing major funding for quality improvements.
1987 Gains approval for Ivy Tech to begin offering limited number of Associate of Science degree programs in addition to existing Associate of Applied Science programs.
1991 Annual enrollment hits 50,000.
1992 Supports and gains legislative approval for 30 hours of credit transfers among all Indiana public higher education institutions.
1993 Commission for Higher Education (CHE) approves apprenticeship program certificate and degree programs.
1994 Secures statewide North Central Association accreditation as a single institution for the first time.
1995 Gains General Assembly approval of legislation changing institution’s name to “Ivy Tech State College.”
1998 Gains CHE approval to expand apprenticeship programs to new skill areas and additional regions. Secures North Central Association approval for several degree programs to be offered wholly through distance education.
1999 Community College system established on 10 Ivy Tech campuses in partnership with Vincennes University. Secures statewide dual credit program with high schools.
2000 Leads trustees to pass resolution creating college’s 14th region, in Bloomington.
2001 Annual enrollment hits 75,000. Introduces degree-granting programs to trade apprentices and journeymen through distance learning program.
2002 Secures joint resolution by Ivy Tech and VU trustees giving Ivy Tech sole responsibility to manage CC partnership.
2003 Leads statewide celebration of 40th anniversary of Ivy Tech’s founding. Unveils long-range strategic vision for the college.
2004 Annual enrollment hits 100,000. Governor announces Ivy Tech will be Indiana’s sole community college. Legislative committees approve expansion of community college programs to all 23 Ivy Tech campuses. CHE approves nine A.A./A.S. liberal arts concentrations for all 23 campuses.
2005 U.S. Department of Education gives approval for Ivy Tech to offer financial aid to liberal arts students. North Central Association conducts formal visit and authorizes Ivy Tech to offer accredited A.A. degree at all campuses. Senate Bill 296, making Ivy Tech the state’s community college system, passes legislature and is signed by governor.
2006 Annual for-credit headcount enrollment goes over 105,000.
Source: Ivy Tech Community College
August 28, 2006
Rising Sun Native dies in Plane Crash
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Aug. 27, 2006) − The following statement was released today by University of Kentucky President Lee T. Todd Jr.:
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of all those who lost their lives this morning. That profound sense of loss is being particularly felt by our larger UK family as three of our own were on Flight 5191.
Larry Turner was Associate Dean for Extension and Director of the Cooperative Extension Service. Larry began his extension career at UK in 1978. Much of his life revolved around farming and agriculture. A native of Rising Sun, Ind., Larry grew up on a family farm. But his love for – and commitment to – his adopted state ran deep.
Since 2002, he has been the chief officer overseeing the University of Kentucky extension service, which has offices in each of the state's 120 counties. Larry oversaw the work of more than 1,000 people, but he undoubtedly touched countless lives with his deep integrity, commitment and gentle nature. He often said the extension service could be described in three words – 'people, programs and partnerships.'
Today, we have lost one of our best partners.
There are, of course, no easy answers when such a tragedy occurs. The loss is beyond our ability to grasp or comprehend. And there are no words adequate to express the sense of sadness we feel at this time. The book of Isaiah promises that God will 'bind up the brokenhearted … to comfort all who mourn.' That is our humble prayer as we seek to comfort those in the UK family and in Lexington who are grieving today."
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of all those who lost their lives this morning. That profound sense of loss is being particularly felt by our larger UK family as three of our own were on Flight 5191.
Larry Turner was Associate Dean for Extension and Director of the Cooperative Extension Service. Larry began his extension career at UK in 1978. Much of his life revolved around farming and agriculture. A native of Rising Sun, Ind., Larry grew up on a family farm. But his love for – and commitment to – his adopted state ran deep.
Since 2002, he has been the chief officer overseeing the University of Kentucky extension service, which has offices in each of the state's 120 counties. Larry oversaw the work of more than 1,000 people, but he undoubtedly touched countless lives with his deep integrity, commitment and gentle nature. He often said the extension service could be described in three words – 'people, programs and partnerships.'
Today, we have lost one of our best partners.
There are, of course, no easy answers when such a tragedy occurs. The loss is beyond our ability to grasp or comprehend. And there are no words adequate to express the sense of sadness we feel at this time. The book of Isaiah promises that God will 'bind up the brokenhearted … to comfort all who mourn.' That is our humble prayer as we seek to comfort those in the UK family and in Lexington who are grieving today."
August 22, 2006
More on Casino Valuation
The struggle for control of the yet to be completed Orange County Casino in French Lick could give us some insight to the value of the Grand Victoria when it goes on the market next month.
The Indianpolis Star reports that the casino-resort project in French Lick is projected to generate $120.6 million in gambling revenue and send $30 million or more in tax revenue to state and local governments. By 2011, gambling revenue is estimated to grow grow to $136 million, according to figures released by the Indiana Gaming Commission. The numbers come from a forecast made for the companies by The Innovation Group, a national casino consulting firm, in November 2005.
The real fight is over anticipated cash flow which could be anywhere between $40 million and $70 million a year. Cash flow is a business' profits before it pays debt interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, is a key figure to determine the overall value of a business. Casinos recently have sold at prices that are 8.5 to 9.1 times higher than annual cash flow. So the Orange County casino-resort may be worth about $340 million to $620 million. That's quite a range.
The Grand Victoria has shown a growth in gaming revenue from $138 million in FY 2003 to $148.8 million in FY 2005, or a total of 8% over two years. In comparison, Belterra grew its revenues 24% to $156.2 million over the same period, while Argosy improved 13.4% to a whopping $444.5 million. Still Grand Vic's gaming revenues last year exceeded those anticipated for the Orange County casino.
The Indianpolis Star reports that the casino-resort project in French Lick is projected to generate $120.6 million in gambling revenue and send $30 million or more in tax revenue to state and local governments. By 2011, gambling revenue is estimated to grow grow to $136 million, according to figures released by the Indiana Gaming Commission. The numbers come from a forecast made for the companies by The Innovation Group, a national casino consulting firm, in November 2005.
The real fight is over anticipated cash flow which could be anywhere between $40 million and $70 million a year. Cash flow is a business' profits before it pays debt interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, is a key figure to determine the overall value of a business. Casinos recently have sold at prices that are 8.5 to 9.1 times higher than annual cash flow. So the Orange County casino-resort may be worth about $340 million to $620 million. That's quite a range.
The Grand Victoria has shown a growth in gaming revenue from $138 million in FY 2003 to $148.8 million in FY 2005, or a total of 8% over two years. In comparison, Belterra grew its revenues 24% to $156.2 million over the same period, while Argosy improved 13.4% to a whopping $444.5 million. Still Grand Vic's gaming revenues last year exceeded those anticipated for the Orange County casino.
Inside Indiana Business reports on Rising Sun
Inside Indiana Business recently inverviewed Rising Sun Mayor Bill Marksberry regarding the Grand Victoria Casino & Hotel being put up for sale. The video is available online only for a limited time.
Watch Video
Watch Video
August 21, 2006
Who will buy Grand Victoria?
The Indianapolis star had some interesting insight on the possible Grand Victoria sale last friday:
Please note that this is net cash flow not gaming revenue as reported by the Indiana Gaming Commission. Grand Victoria is a privately owned company so profit margins are not readily available. However, Argosy in nearby Lawrenceburg operate on a 7.28% profit margin. The Indiana gaming commission reports that for fiscal year 2003, H. Group Holding Inc. had total assets of $5.3 billion, which produced sales of $2.78 billion. Grand Victoria represented about two percent of total assets of H. Group Holding. Therefore the total sales may be about $55,600,000 annually. If you multiply that by 7.28% then profits may be in the $15 to $25 Million range. This would create a sales price of about to $180 to $235 Million range. (This again is all pure conjecture based on available information).
Remember as part of MGM/Mandalay merger last year, Hyatt Gaming Management agreed
to become the manager of the Grand Victoria riverboat in Elgin, Illinois. They hold a 50% interest in that venture.
According to a report filed with the gaming commission in 2004, Grand Victoria in Rising Sun is 80 percent owned by Indiana RBG LP, a subsidiary of H. Group Holding Inc., and 20 percent owned by RSR LLC. H. Group Holding, Inc. is a private holding company owned indirectly by trusts for the benefit of the secretive but wealthy Pritzker family of Chicago. The primary businesses of H. Group Holding Inc. are the operation and ownership of Hyatt Hotels in North America, the management of retirement facilities, the leasing of equipment including personal computers, computer workstations, temporary storage tanks and related products.
Michael Cahill, president of Denver-based hotel and casino consulting firm HREC (Hospitality Real Estate Counselors), said casinos are commanding significant premiums as the gaming industry looks for new growth when new development opportunities are scarce. He said the going rate for a casino acquisition in today's market is up to 50 percent more than it was a decade ago. A casino now will typically sell seven to nine times cash flow (before depreciation, amortization, taxes and interest), versus six to seven times 10 years ago.
Cahill also said Fort Mitchell-based Columbia Sussex would be a logical suitor, noting the company's familiarity with the Midwest and recent flurry of acquisitions - most recently the pending $2.8 billion takeover of Aztar Corp.
"If I were a broker for this casino, my first call would be to Columbia Sussex," he said, adding other gaming companies without a local presence might also be interested.
Officials at Columbia Sussex declined to comment on Tuesday.
Please note that this is net cash flow not gaming revenue as reported by the Indiana Gaming Commission. Grand Victoria is a privately owned company so profit margins are not readily available. However, Argosy in nearby Lawrenceburg operate on a 7.28% profit margin. The Indiana gaming commission reports that for fiscal year 2003, H. Group Holding Inc. had total assets of $5.3 billion, which produced sales of $2.78 billion. Grand Victoria represented about two percent of total assets of H. Group Holding. Therefore the total sales may be about $55,600,000 annually. If you multiply that by 7.28% then profits may be in the $15 to $25 Million range. This would create a sales price of about to $180 to $235 Million range. (This again is all pure conjecture based on available information).
Remember as part of MGM/Mandalay merger last year, Hyatt Gaming Management agreed
to become the manager of the Grand Victoria riverboat in Elgin, Illinois. They hold a 50% interest in that venture.
According to a report filed with the gaming commission in 2004, Grand Victoria in Rising Sun is 80 percent owned by Indiana RBG LP, a subsidiary of H. Group Holding Inc., and 20 percent owned by RSR LLC. H. Group Holding, Inc. is a private holding company owned indirectly by trusts for the benefit of the secretive but wealthy Pritzker family of Chicago. The primary businesses of H. Group Holding Inc. are the operation and ownership of Hyatt Hotels in North America, the management of retirement facilities, the leasing of equipment including personal computers, computer workstations, temporary storage tanks and related products.
August 18, 2006
The Cincinnati Enquirer recently ran a story on Rising Sun's Main Street success story Wm. Rees Instrucments and it's new Harpsicles harp. The Rising Sun/Ohio County Chamber of Commerce is proud to have this company as a member and looks forward to their continued presence in our community for many years to come.
RISING SUN - A small, colorful harp that has changed the way music lovers look at this heavenly instrument has brought national attention to its creators, William and Pamela Rees.
The attention has resulted in an invitation for Pamela to speak in Washington, D.C., before an industry group about the importance of innovation in manufacturing.
The playful, diminutive instrument that comes in a rainbow of colors to suggest Popsicles has made harp playing available to the masses and also has more than doubled the size of the Southeast Indiana couple's small harp-making business.
Harpsicles is the name coined for the small, lap-sized harps by William and Pamela Rees, owners of Wm. Rees Instruments LLC.
Their workshop turns out about 100 of the Harpsicles per month. The popularity of the small harp and its relatively low price point of between $300 and $400 have made it a top seller around the world, beating out sales of cheaper overseas harps that have long dominated the small-harp market, said Pamela.
This competitive advantage is what caught the attention of the Council on Competitiveness, a Washington, D.C.-based think tank that was created 20 years ago by a group of CEOs, university leaders and union leaders to look for ways to keep the United States at the forefront of competitive economic growth into the 21st century.
After Pamela Rees met the president of the council, Deborah Wince-Smith, at the Indiana Leadership Summit earlier this year, Wince-Smith invited her to speak July 25 to the National Strategy Council, a part of the Council on Competitiveness.
She was intrigued with the Reeses' business story.
Bill Booher, chief operating officer for the Council on Competitiveness, said the Reeses' business exemplifies the spirit of competition that the council is looking to foster.
FELL IN LOVE WITH RISING SUN
Formerly located in Northern California, the Rees family has been making stringed instruments for more than 30 years. The couple moved their business to Rising Sun six years ago after driving through the town on a vacation and falling in love with it. Their two grown sons, Bryant and Garen, are active in the business.
The Reeses' full-sized concert harps have for years been among the most sought-after lever harps for professional musicians, said Pamela Rees, because of William's unique designs and high-quality craftsmanship.
Professional harpist Laurie Riley of Sedona, Ariz., who has recorded more than a dozen compact discs of harp music and frequently tours the country for performances, said she routinely uses the Rees harp for her professional playing.
"They are definitely among the top harp makers of the lever harps," said Riley.
The team of 13 craftspeople at their Rising Sun workshop builds only 12 to 15 concert harps per month. Each full-size harp sells for between $2,000 and $7,000.
The Harpsicles take a fraction of the time to build compared to the concert-sized harps, Pamela Rees said. The business turns out 100 Harpsicles a month with the same staff it takes to build just a dozen concert harps.
"Basically we work on the concert harps from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on the Harpsicles from 3 to 6 p.m.," she said. "Keeping the construction time down allows us to keep the Harpsicle affordable, because the materials are the same as for the large harps."
STURDY AND INEXPENSIVE
The Harpsicles come in brightly painted hues with names such as cherry, grape and lime to suggest Popsicles.
The Harpsicles have been well received by young musicians just learning the harp and by more experienced musicians who just want a more portable version of the large harp, said Pamela.
Weighing 4 pounds and standing only 33 inches tall, the Harpsicle can be taken almost anywhere. It's sturdy and inexpensive enough that it doesn't need the white-glove treatment that a larger harp demands.
The Harpsicle's success has thrust the Reeses into the limelight as the only U.S. makers of this type of instrument. Their Harpsicle is outpacing sales of cheaper import harps that have for years dominated here.
Purdue to open TAPS office in Rising Sun
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Purdue University will enhance its regional economic development partnership with southeast Indiana through a new Technical Assistance Program office in Rising Sun, Ind.
The Technical Assistance Program, which connects companies with Purdue resources and assists them in implementing state-of-the art technologies, will work from that office to help companies in southeast Indiana, including automotive suppliers for Honda Motor Corp., to remain globally competitive.
TAP also manages the National Institute of Standards and Technology Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) and is a state partner of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. Through this network, companies will receive assistance in work force, energy, quality, productivity and other assessment, educational and implementation services.
TAP director David McKinnis said the new office is expected to open in November. It is funded by grants from the Rising Sun Regional Foundation and the city of Rising Sun.
"Through their generosity, we look forward to working with manufacturers in southeast Indiana to develop a highly trained, efficient work force, reduce costs and increase sales," McKinnis said. "Purdue is eager to play a key role in boosting the economy of this region."
Edward F. Sullivan, Rising Sun Regional Foundation executive director, said he called three companies that have worked with TAP before recommending that the foundation approve its $100,000 grant.
"Those were all very positive," Sullivan said. "The TAP program clearly has a good reputation throughout the state. Their services will be especially important for the smaller companies in the foundation's grant-making region that don't have the staff needed to do certain projects."
Rising Sun Mayor Bill Marksberry said city council members on Thursday (Aug. 3) approved a $50,000 grant as an investment in the city's economic future.
"With all of the engineering, technology and business-related expertise available at Purdue, TAP should be of enormous help to companies in Rising Sun," Marksberry said. "We have high expectations for this partnership."
TAP also recently opened three new offices in Merrillville, Anderson and Fort Wayne and plans to establish an office at the Purdue Technology Center of Southern Indiana in New Albany.
"By expanding TAP's reach and helping more manufacturers improve their operations, Purdue fulfills its land-grant mission to serve as an educational and economic partner to the state," McKinnis said. "We are pleased to be making great strides to further fulfill that mission."
Source: Purdue University
The Technical Assistance Program, which connects companies with Purdue resources and assists them in implementing state-of-the art technologies, will work from that office to help companies in southeast Indiana, including automotive suppliers for Honda Motor Corp., to remain globally competitive.
TAP also manages the National Institute of Standards and Technology Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) and is a state partner of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation. Through this network, companies will receive assistance in work force, energy, quality, productivity and other assessment, educational and implementation services.
TAP director David McKinnis said the new office is expected to open in November. It is funded by grants from the Rising Sun Regional Foundation and the city of Rising Sun.
"Through their generosity, we look forward to working with manufacturers in southeast Indiana to develop a highly trained, efficient work force, reduce costs and increase sales," McKinnis said. "Purdue is eager to play a key role in boosting the economy of this region."
Edward F. Sullivan, Rising Sun Regional Foundation executive director, said he called three companies that have worked with TAP before recommending that the foundation approve its $100,000 grant.
"Those were all very positive," Sullivan said. "The TAP program clearly has a good reputation throughout the state. Their services will be especially important for the smaller companies in the foundation's grant-making region that don't have the staff needed to do certain projects."
Rising Sun Mayor Bill Marksberry said city council members on Thursday (Aug. 3) approved a $50,000 grant as an investment in the city's economic future.
"With all of the engineering, technology and business-related expertise available at Purdue, TAP should be of enormous help to companies in Rising Sun," Marksberry said. "We have high expectations for this partnership."
TAP also recently opened three new offices in Merrillville, Anderson and Fort Wayne and plans to establish an office at the Purdue Technology Center of Southern Indiana in New Albany.
"By expanding TAP's reach and helping more manufacturers improve their operations, Purdue fulfills its land-grant mission to serve as an educational and economic partner to the state," McKinnis said. "We are pleased to be making great strides to further fulfill that mission."
Source: Purdue University
PENDLETON ART CENTER HOSTING GAMING ART SHOW
The Pendleton Art Center in Rising Sun will feature "Artists and Art in Gaming" art show in September to open the first annual Grand Victoria Casino and Resort Month at the Pendleton.
Artists from the three sister Pendleton Art Centers in Rising Sun, Cincinnati, and Ashland, KY, will present artwork focused on their rendition of what gaming means to them.
The Grand Victoria Casino judges will award prizes to winning artists on September 1, 2006, at 7 p.m. at the Center. VIP guests of the Grand Victoria will also be hosted in the VIP suite at the art center.
"We're excited about this show and recognizing the Grand Victoria's contributions to Rising Sun," says Jim Verdin of the Pendleton Art Centers. "Rising Sun is a natural venue for artists with the scenic river views and supportive environment. And, a gaming theme will allow for some creative interpretations by our artists. This will be our first annual Grand Victoria Casino and Resort event, but also our first event for the three Pendleton Art Center artists to participate together in a judged art show and exhibit, " Mr. Verdin continues.
Every First Friday of the month, the Pendleton Art Center in Rising Sun opens its doors for visitors and anyone interested in seeing artwork and meeting some talented artists. Rising Sun artists, photographers, sculptors, glass artisans, weavers, potters, and musicians invite guests to come to their studios to see their works; or just come hang out for refreshments and some great music on a Friday night in Rising Sun along the Ohio River. From contemporary to realistic expressionism, the artists enjoy opening their studios to the general public on First Friday's and Second-Look Saturday's to show their wares.
The show will feature 42 artists; 62 pieces of art. The Grand Victoria Casino and Resort is celebrating its 10th anniversary so we thought it would be great to honor them in some way. They are sending invitations to their VIP persons, and it is announced in their newsletter.
The prize money is $1500, $1000, $500 for the top artists' entries to be judged
on Friday evening, 9/1, with prizes awarded at 9 p.m.
Judges will be Steve Jimenez, General Manager, Daryl Paddock, Director of Sales, and Tony Perrone, Director of Marketing for the Grand Victoria; plus Jim Verdin of the Verdin Bell Company of Cincinnati.
WHEN: Friday, 9/1/06, 5 - 9 p.m.
WHERE: Pendleton Art Center, Rising Sun, IN, 201 Main St. (812-438-9900)
Artists from the three sister Pendleton Art Centers in Rising Sun, Cincinnati, and Ashland, KY, will present artwork focused on their rendition of what gaming means to them.
The Grand Victoria Casino judges will award prizes to winning artists on September 1, 2006, at 7 p.m. at the Center. VIP guests of the Grand Victoria will also be hosted in the VIP suite at the art center.
"We're excited about this show and recognizing the Grand Victoria's contributions to Rising Sun," says Jim Verdin of the Pendleton Art Centers. "Rising Sun is a natural venue for artists with the scenic river views and supportive environment. And, a gaming theme will allow for some creative interpretations by our artists. This will be our first annual Grand Victoria Casino and Resort event, but also our first event for the three Pendleton Art Center artists to participate together in a judged art show and exhibit, " Mr. Verdin continues.
Every First Friday of the month, the Pendleton Art Center in Rising Sun opens its doors for visitors and anyone interested in seeing artwork and meeting some talented artists. Rising Sun artists, photographers, sculptors, glass artisans, weavers, potters, and musicians invite guests to come to their studios to see their works; or just come hang out for refreshments and some great music on a Friday night in Rising Sun along the Ohio River. From contemporary to realistic expressionism, the artists enjoy opening their studios to the general public on First Friday's and Second-Look Saturday's to show their wares.
The show will feature 42 artists; 62 pieces of art. The Grand Victoria Casino and Resort is celebrating its 10th anniversary so we thought it would be great to honor them in some way. They are sending invitations to their VIP persons, and it is announced in their newsletter.
The prize money is $1500, $1000, $500 for the top artists' entries to be judged
on Friday evening, 9/1, with prizes awarded at 9 p.m.
Judges will be Steve Jimenez, General Manager, Daryl Paddock, Director of Sales, and Tony Perrone, Director of Marketing for the Grand Victoria; plus Jim Verdin of the Verdin Bell Company of Cincinnati.
WHEN: Friday, 9/1/06, 5 - 9 p.m.
WHERE: Pendleton Art Center, Rising Sun, IN, 201 Main St. (812-438-9900)
August 17, 2006
University of Indianapolis has named Dr. Mary Blake Huer the new dean of health sciences.
Inside INdiana Business reports that Mary Blake Huer, Ph.D., who is active in the ongoing United Nations effort to develop international human rights standards for the disabled, will oversee the university’s nationally ranked School of Occupational Therapy and Krannert School of Physical Therapy, effective Jan. 1.
Dr.Huer is a graduate of Rising Sun High School in southern Indiana, she holds a bachelor’s degree in speech pathology, a master’s in speech-language pathology and a Ph.D. in speech science, all from Indiana University. She is the author of numerous journal articles, book chapters and commercially published products including therapy books, assessment tools, videotape series and software.
“We are delighted that Dr. Huer has accepted our offer to direct UIndy’s flagship programs in the health sciences,” said Deborah Ware Balogh, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “With her impressive scholarship and leadership credentials, she is ideally suited to build upon the national and international reputations of our physical and occupational therapy schools.”
An Indiana native, Huer comes to UIndy from California State University-Fullerton, where she is professor of human communication studies and director of its laboratories in augmentative and alternative communication. This relatively new field explores the use of electronic devices and other technology to assist patients with severe disabilities in speaking and communicating.
Dr.Huer is a graduate of Rising Sun High School in southern Indiana, she holds a bachelor’s degree in speech pathology, a master’s in speech-language pathology and a Ph.D. in speech science, all from Indiana University. She is the author of numerous journal articles, book chapters and commercially published products including therapy books, assessment tools, videotape series and software.
Grand Victoria Sale
As reported by the Cincinnati Enquirer: "Grand Victoria Casino & Hotel in Rising Sun will be up for sale this fall.
"Majority owner Hyatt Hotels & Resorts will put the 201-room and casino on the market in September, said general manager Steven Jimenez. He said Grand Victoria's 1,100 employees have already been notified of the plan.
"…Jimenez said he didn't know what prompted the decision to sell the casino, which opened on Oct. 4, 1996. He did not know what the asking price would be.
"…Grand Victoria had nearly 1.9 million admissions in fiscal 2005 (which ended this June) and paid $3 million in gaming and admission taxes, according to the Indiana Gaming Commission.
The decision to sell the Ohio River casino some 25 miles southwest of Cincinnati comes as an expansion is planned of the Argosy Casino in nearby Lawrenceburg.
Argosy's owner, Penn National Gaming Inc., plans to replace the current 74,300-square-foot riverboat with a 250,000-square-foot barge that will open in late 2008.
Argosy was the busiest of the state's 10 riverboats in July, with 361,000 visitors and $41.5 million in table and slot winnings, according to Indiana Gaming Commission records. Grand Victoria, which is a further drive from Cincinnati, had about 180,000 visitors and $14.5 million in winnings.
Grand Victoria, which opened in 1996, has a 40,000-square-foot riverboat along with five restaurants and an 18-hole golf course.
Rising Sun Mayor Bill Marksberry said the opening of Grand Victoria was a major development for the city of 2,400 people and that he was optimistic a sale would not hurt the local community.
"It's one of those businesses that employ a lot of people here as well as from Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana," he said.
"Majority owner Hyatt Hotels & Resorts will put the 201-room and casino on the market in September, said general manager Steven Jimenez. He said Grand Victoria's 1,100 employees have already been notified of the plan.
"…Jimenez said he didn't know what prompted the decision to sell the casino, which opened on Oct. 4, 1996. He did not know what the asking price would be.
"…Grand Victoria had nearly 1.9 million admissions in fiscal 2005 (which ended this June) and paid $3 million in gaming and admission taxes, according to the Indiana Gaming Commission.
The decision to sell the Ohio River casino some 25 miles southwest of Cincinnati comes as an expansion is planned of the Argosy Casino in nearby Lawrenceburg.
Argosy's owner, Penn National Gaming Inc., plans to replace the current 74,300-square-foot riverboat with a 250,000-square-foot barge that will open in late 2008.
Argosy was the busiest of the state's 10 riverboats in July, with 361,000 visitors and $41.5 million in table and slot winnings, according to Indiana Gaming Commission records. Grand Victoria, which is a further drive from Cincinnati, had about 180,000 visitors and $14.5 million in winnings.
Grand Victoria, which opened in 1996, has a 40,000-square-foot riverboat along with five restaurants and an 18-hole golf course.
Rising Sun Mayor Bill Marksberry said the opening of Grand Victoria was a major development for the city of 2,400 people and that he was optimistic a sale would not hurt the local community.
"It's one of those businesses that employ a lot of people here as well as from Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana," he said.
August 14, 2006
Honda Suppliers scout sites in Dearborn County
The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Dearborn County Officials are already showing sites along Interstate 74 to unnamed Honda suppliers interested in finding a location near the new plant.
"The hard part is getting the community engaged in knowing there is good property available and there are people willing to sell," he says. "What we need to do is take a comprehensive look at the 74 corridor to identify properties and put some calculations toward what it would take to get infrastructure to those available sites. The barrier is that we don't have that data."
DEVELOPMENT GROUP EFFORTS
That's the job of the county's Economic Development Initiative, formed two years ago to spearhead development efforts.
Jim West, the group's president, built the same kind of program in the 1990s as president of the Tri-County Economic Development Corp., the group that managed the boom in Northern Kentucky.
West says there is interest from retail developers in Lawrenceburg, and that the Honda plant should bring activity in Dearborn County's northern regions.
But the county is a long way from producing developers that will build speculative office space, the kind of space that draws high-paying companies.
"It's not incentives that rule us out most of the time, it's lack of product," West says.
"This is not just about economic development. It's about quality of life."
"It's two years out, but you've still got suppliers who are scouring the area," says Tim Kramer, owner of a 58-acre site with 2,000 feet along interstate near Indiana 1. "Right now, it's a wonderful place to be."
The overall picture means that industrial jobs and the steady tax base they can create are going to neighboring counties.
Every day more than 10,000 residents leave the county of about 50,000 people to work somewhere else. The commuters make up about 40 percent of Dearborn County's total labor force.
And one of the county's biggest employers, the Pernod Ricard Seagram distillery in Lawrenceburg, will close in two years, eliminating about 400 jobs.
To combat that, Dearborn County needs to create jobs and draw companies, and progress comes slowly. One hometown developer is spending millions of dollars to create a developable site off U.S. 50 and I-275 in Greendale.
"The hard part is getting the community engaged in knowing there is good property available and there are people willing to sell," he says. "What we need to do is take a comprehensive look at the 74 corridor to identify properties and put some calculations toward what it would take to get infrastructure to those available sites. The barrier is that we don't have that data."
DEVELOPMENT GROUP EFFORTS
That's the job of the county's Economic Development Initiative, formed two years ago to spearhead development efforts.
Jim West, the group's president, built the same kind of program in the 1990s as president of the Tri-County Economic Development Corp., the group that managed the boom in Northern Kentucky.
West says there is interest from retail developers in Lawrenceburg, and that the Honda plant should bring activity in Dearborn County's northern regions.
But the county is a long way from producing developers that will build speculative office space, the kind of space that draws high-paying companies.
"It's not incentives that rule us out most of the time, it's lack of product," West says.
"This is not just about economic development. It's about quality of life."
August 1, 2006
Daily Dose
It happened this week
10 YEARS AGO -- 1996
The Army Corps of Engineers approved a permit allowing the Hyatt Corp. to build a mooring area and operate a riverboat casino in Rising Sun, Ind. The permit gave Hyatt the go-ahead to complete all phases of construction for the Grand Victoria Casino and Resort. The Grand Victoria became Indiana's second Ohio River casino boat when it opened in September 1996.
Switzerland County officials have voted to move forward on a new 117-acre business park near the Markland Bridge.
Switzerland County officials are planning an aggressive entrance into the highly competitive economic development arena.
Voting recently to move forward on a new 117-acre business park near the Markland Bridge, county leaders have taken a significant step of providing development sites to prospective businesses. County leaders expect the site to be attractive to those supplying the new Honda facility in Greensburg, Indiana, and businesses wanting to be near the fast-growing northern Kentucky region.
"This is perfect timing for Switzerland County,¨ said Jon Bond, president of the Switzerland County Economic Development Corporation. "We will be able to offer shovel-ready sites on the edge of two fast-growing regions at a time when they are desperately needed."
Economic growth in Switzerland County for years has been stunted by the remote location, but new highway construction in the region will create a strategic advantage for advanced manufacturing, distribution and logistics-based companies interested in locating in southeastern Indiana, southwestern Ohio or northern Kentucky. The extension of Kentucky 1039 will connect the county to I-71 and the reconstruction of Indiana 129 will make the county more accessible to truck traffic.
"The new highway in Kentucky made this an easier decision for the county council," said Switzerland County Council President Mike Jones. "We want to be competitive in the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky region and offer sites to potential Honda suppliers."
With the proximity to the Belterra Casino and Resort (approximately one mile), the county is considering a mixed use development that would provide acreage for businesses that might cater to the casino, as well as sites for light manufacturing development.
"Belterra's presence in the community has provided us with resources we otherwise never would have had," said Jones. "It is our responsibility to use those resources to grow and diversify the county's economy and provide good-paying jobs for residents."
Switzerland County is in the southeast corner of Indiana, along the Ohio River, approximately a one-hour drive from Cincinnati, Ohio, Louisville and Lexington, Ky., and two hours from Indianapolis, Indiana, and Dayton, Ohio.
Markland Business Park -- Fact Sheet
-- NAME: Markland Business Park
-- LOCATION: North of the Markland Bridge at Indiana State Highway 156; five minutes from I-71 once the Kentucky connector highway is completed in September 2006; one mile from the Belterra Casino and Resort in Vevay, Ind.
-- Size: Phase 1 of the project is 115 acres. Additional ground is available for future phases.
-- STATUS: The Switzerland County Council members recently voted to option the property and the county has begun the process to purchase it.
-- WHO BENEFITS: Markland Business Park will create higher paying jobs for the residents of Switzerland County and will create significant tax revenue for the County, State and local schools.
-- BUSINESS ADVANTAGES: The project offers shovel-ready sites with convenient access to interstates, as well as recreational and cultural amenities.
-- WHATS NEXT: An infrastructure development plan is being formulated and local regulatory matters are being addressed.
-- TIMELINE: Sites should be available in Markland Business Park by early 2007.
10 YEARS AGO -- 1996
The Army Corps of Engineers approved a permit allowing the Hyatt Corp. to build a mooring area and operate a riverboat casino in Rising Sun, Ind. The permit gave Hyatt the go-ahead to complete all phases of construction for the Grand Victoria Casino and Resort. The Grand Victoria became Indiana's second Ohio River casino boat when it opened in September 1996.
Switzerland County officials have voted to move forward on a new 117-acre business park near the Markland Bridge.
Switzerland County officials are planning an aggressive entrance into the highly competitive economic development arena.
Voting recently to move forward on a new 117-acre business park near the Markland Bridge, county leaders have taken a significant step of providing development sites to prospective businesses. County leaders expect the site to be attractive to those supplying the new Honda facility in Greensburg, Indiana, and businesses wanting to be near the fast-growing northern Kentucky region.
"This is perfect timing for Switzerland County,¨ said Jon Bond, president of the Switzerland County Economic Development Corporation. "We will be able to offer shovel-ready sites on the edge of two fast-growing regions at a time when they are desperately needed."
Economic growth in Switzerland County for years has been stunted by the remote location, but new highway construction in the region will create a strategic advantage for advanced manufacturing, distribution and logistics-based companies interested in locating in southeastern Indiana, southwestern Ohio or northern Kentucky. The extension of Kentucky 1039 will connect the county to I-71 and the reconstruction of Indiana 129 will make the county more accessible to truck traffic.
"The new highway in Kentucky made this an easier decision for the county council," said Switzerland County Council President Mike Jones. "We want to be competitive in the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky region and offer sites to potential Honda suppliers."
With the proximity to the Belterra Casino and Resort (approximately one mile), the county is considering a mixed use development that would provide acreage for businesses that might cater to the casino, as well as sites for light manufacturing development.
"Belterra's presence in the community has provided us with resources we otherwise never would have had," said Jones. "It is our responsibility to use those resources to grow and diversify the county's economy and provide good-paying jobs for residents."
Switzerland County is in the southeast corner of Indiana, along the Ohio River, approximately a one-hour drive from Cincinnati, Ohio, Louisville and Lexington, Ky., and two hours from Indianapolis, Indiana, and Dayton, Ohio.
Markland Business Park -- Fact Sheet
-- NAME: Markland Business Park
-- LOCATION: North of the Markland Bridge at Indiana State Highway 156; five minutes from I-71 once the Kentucky connector highway is completed in September 2006; one mile from the Belterra Casino and Resort in Vevay, Ind.
-- Size: Phase 1 of the project is 115 acres. Additional ground is available for future phases.
-- STATUS: The Switzerland County Council members recently voted to option the property and the county has begun the process to purchase it.
-- WHO BENEFITS: Markland Business Park will create higher paying jobs for the residents of Switzerland County and will create significant tax revenue for the County, State and local schools.
-- BUSINESS ADVANTAGES: The project offers shovel-ready sites with convenient access to interstates, as well as recreational and cultural amenities.
-- WHATS NEXT: An infrastructure development plan is being formulated and local regulatory matters are being addressed.
-- TIMELINE: Sites should be available in Markland Business Park by early 2007.
July 31, 2006
FIRST FRIDAY IN AUGUST CELEBRATES RIVER DAYS
August in Rising Sun epitomizes the lazy days of summer... live music from the Main Street Stage on the river front on Saturday nights, homemade ice cream, park benches, free boat hook ups, an eclectic array of dining options, and a free shuttle to the Grand Victoria Casino, golf course and hotel, featuring "Elvis" every weekend! Check out the website www.risingsunchamber.com for current events scheduled for August.
Every First Friday of the month, the Pendleton Art Center opens its doors for visitors and anyone interested in seeing artwork and meeting some talented artists. Our Rising Sun artists, photographers, sculptors, glass artisans, potters, and musicians invite you to come to their studios to see their works; or just come hang out for refreshments and some great music on a Friday night in Rising Sun along the Ohio River. From contemporary to realistic expressionism, our artists enjoy opening their studios to the general public on First Friday's and Second-Look Saturday's to show their wares.
Artists featured this month in the Pendleton Main Gallery are:
--Andrea Grimsley, Landscapes and Abstract Art, from Rising Sun, IN
--Joni Huber, Mixed Media, from West Harrison, IN
--Donald Niehaus, acrylic, watercolor and oil paintings, from Crestview Hills, KY
--Cheryl Reiniger, watercolorist from Lawrenceburg, IN
--Christine Shipley, Mixed Media, from Aurora, IN
--Marianne Wiggers, Watercolorist from Milan, IN
Entertainment will be provided by the Riverblend Barbership Quartet... Don Gray, Chuck Watson, Dutch Speidel and John Byerly were named the Seniors Quartet Champions for Ohio, West Virginia and Western Pennsylvania. Riverblend delights in entertaining audiences with their rich blend of elegant barbershop harmony.
WHERE - Pendleton Art Center
at 201 Main Street in Rising Sun IN, (812) 438-9900,
www.pendletonartcenter.com
WHEN - First Friday of August, 8/4, 5 - 9 pm
and... Second-Look Saturday, 8/5, 10 - 5 pm
COST - FREE to general public, sponsored by The Friendship Bank of Rising Sun
Every First Friday of the month, the Pendleton Art Center opens its doors for visitors and anyone interested in seeing artwork and meeting some talented artists. Our Rising Sun artists, photographers, sculptors, glass artisans, potters, and musicians invite you to come to their studios to see their works; or just come hang out for refreshments and some great music on a Friday night in Rising Sun along the Ohio River. From contemporary to realistic expressionism, our artists enjoy opening their studios to the general public on First Friday's and Second-Look Saturday's to show their wares.
Artists featured this month in the Pendleton Main Gallery are:
--Andrea Grimsley, Landscapes and Abstract Art, from Rising Sun, IN
--Joni Huber, Mixed Media, from West Harrison, IN
--Donald Niehaus, acrylic, watercolor and oil paintings, from Crestview Hills, KY
--Cheryl Reiniger, watercolorist from Lawrenceburg, IN
--Christine Shipley, Mixed Media, from Aurora, IN
--Marianne Wiggers, Watercolorist from Milan, IN
Entertainment will be provided by the Riverblend Barbership Quartet... Don Gray, Chuck Watson, Dutch Speidel and John Byerly were named the Seniors Quartet Champions for Ohio, West Virginia and Western Pennsylvania. Riverblend delights in entertaining audiences with their rich blend of elegant barbershop harmony.
WHERE - Pendleton Art Center
at 201 Main Street in Rising Sun IN, (812) 438-9900,
www.pendletonartcenter.com
WHEN - First Friday of August, 8/4, 5 - 9 pm
and... Second-Look Saturday, 8/5, 10 - 5 pm
COST - FREE to general public, sponsored by The Friendship Bank of Rising Sun
July 3, 2006
Threat to casino communities' share of revenue may die down
Lesley Stedman Weidenbener of the Louisville Courier-Journal reports on one little-noticed detail of the deal to bring a Honda assembly plant to Greensburg that could have significant implications for Rising Sun, Ohio County and other places that get money from riverboat casinos.
It's a move that Gov. Mitch Daniels' hopes will quiet criticism that casino communities -- and Lawrenceburg in particular -- are reaping too much benefit from their gambling boats.
Last year, some Republicans in the House and Senate drew up plans to redistribute some of the money that local communities receive from the casino.
Much the cash communities enjoy results from local development agreements -- contracts between the casino and the community that spell out how much the boats will give to local foundations, programs and governments.
But lots of it also comes from admissions and wagering tax revenues of which a portion also are distributed to local governments.
Lawrenceburg, which has the biggest revenue casino and by far the most lucrative development agreement, has not in the past shared its money. That caused big problems at the General Assembly, where lawmakers from districts with no casino and no source of ready cash were prepared to nab some for either the state budget or their own communities.
The Senate passed a plan last year that would have raised $75 million for the state budget by reducing the amount of money that riverboat communities could collect in casino taxes.
Ohio County and Rising Sun would have lost nearly $5.9 million annually -- about 80 percent of its tax collections.
The plan eventually failed, but talk about taking the money in the future hasn't completely subsided.
Early this year, Lawrenceburg Mayor Bill Cunningham developed a plan for sharing about $10 million of the city's wealth annually for area economic development projects. The original idea was that surrounding counties could request cash for projects.
So when the Honda deal came up, Daniels came calling. Cunningham said last week he was happy to oblige.
"We wanted to do what was needed," he said.
But will such generosity truly put to rest any legislative raid of communities' casino cash? Maybe not.
House Speaker Brian Bosma commended Lawrenceburg officials last week for their contribution to the project and said it was appropriate. But he wasn't willing to say the issue is over.
"I know there are legislators from around the state who would like to see a different distribution of those funds," he said, "but we'll have to have a thorough discussion about it before anything is changed."
The city of Lawrenceburg, home of the Argosy Casino, has agreed to provide $10 million of its gambling proceeds toward the $100 million in infrastructure improvements that will be made to benefit the plant and future economic growth in the region.
It's a move that Gov. Mitch Daniels' hopes will quiet criticism that casino communities -- and Lawrenceburg in particular -- are reaping too much benefit from their gambling boats.
"That's exactly the sort of investment that those revenues ought to go for and probably the legislature originally anticipated," Daniels said. "It really should end the debate about those dollars being stripped away from Lawrenceburg or other river communities."
Last year, some Republicans in the House and Senate drew up plans to redistribute some of the money that local communities receive from the casino.
Much the cash communities enjoy results from local development agreements -- contracts between the casino and the community that spell out how much the boats will give to local foundations, programs and governments.
But lots of it also comes from admissions and wagering tax revenues of which a portion also are distributed to local governments.
Lawrenceburg, which has the biggest revenue casino and by far the most lucrative development agreement, has not in the past shared its money. That caused big problems at the General Assembly, where lawmakers from districts with no casino and no source of ready cash were prepared to nab some for either the state budget or their own communities.
The Senate passed a plan last year that would have raised $75 million for the state budget by reducing the amount of money that riverboat communities could collect in casino taxes.
Ohio County and Rising Sun would have lost nearly $5.9 million annually -- about 80 percent of its tax collections.
The plan eventually failed, but talk about taking the money in the future hasn't completely subsided.
Early this year, Lawrenceburg Mayor Bill Cunningham developed a plan for sharing about $10 million of the city's wealth annually for area economic development projects. The original idea was that surrounding counties could request cash for projects.
So when the Honda deal came up, Daniels came calling. Cunningham said last week he was happy to oblige.
"We wanted to do what was needed," he said.
But will such generosity truly put to rest any legislative raid of communities' casino cash? Maybe not.
House Speaker Brian Bosma commended Lawrenceburg officials last week for their contribution to the project and said it was appropriate. But he wasn't willing to say the issue is over.
"I know there are legislators from around the state who would like to see a different distribution of those funds," he said, "but we'll have to have a thorough discussion about it before anything is changed."
June 28, 2006
Honda set to award plant to Indiana
The Indianapolis Star is reporting that Japanese automaker Honda today will announce it has chosen a Greensburg site for a car assembly plant that would employ 1,500 workers and could launch an economic boom in the state's hard-pressed southeastern corner. Honda will reveal the plant's location this morning at a news conference in Greensburg, according to a source familiar with the deal who asked not be identified. The source wasn't authorized to discuss the matter.
What does this mean for Rising Sun and Ohio County? Greensburg is about a one hour drive from Rising Sun. This is within range for potential manufacturing plants for suppliers to the new facility. Honda, which pays workers about $24 an hour at its massive 11,000-employee car complex in west-central Ohio, is thought to be reluctant to expand in Ohio and draw workers already employed by its vast network of suppliers.
By bringing high wages to a "faded" farming and industrial region in Indiana, Honda could assure itself of being able to hand-pick workers.
A Honda plant could very well lead to a regional hiring boom, crank up orders for the company's more than three dozen suppliers in the region and begin to bid up wages. The typical employee in the Greensburg area earns about $15 an hour, compared to the statewide average of $19 an hour. Rising Sun and Ohio County need to be prepared for this huge impact on the regional economy. We need to be able to provide potential new businesses with shovel ready sites and improve our workforce status. The Chamber will keep you up to date on these new developments.
Congratulation Greensburg and here we go.
Thanks to Government Relations Co-Chair Dill Dorrell for the news tip.
What does this mean for Rising Sun and Ohio County? Greensburg is about a one hour drive from Rising Sun. This is within range for potential manufacturing plants for suppliers to the new facility. Honda, which pays workers about $24 an hour at its massive 11,000-employee car complex in west-central Ohio, is thought to be reluctant to expand in Ohio and draw workers already employed by its vast network of suppliers.
By bringing high wages to a "faded" farming and industrial region in Indiana, Honda could assure itself of being able to hand-pick workers.
A Honda plant could very well lead to a regional hiring boom, crank up orders for the company's more than three dozen suppliers in the region and begin to bid up wages. The typical employee in the Greensburg area earns about $15 an hour, compared to the statewide average of $19 an hour. Rising Sun and Ohio County need to be prepared for this huge impact on the regional economy. We need to be able to provide potential new businesses with shovel ready sites and improve our workforce status. The Chamber will keep you up to date on these new developments.
Congratulation Greensburg and here we go.
Thanks to Government Relations Co-Chair Dill Dorrell for the news tip.
June 27, 2006
FIRST FRIDAY JULY KICK-OFF FOR CLASSIC CAR SHOW IN RISING SUN, IN
It's time to get away from the hustle and bustle of the daily grind.... to relax and smell the coffee, sample the wine, and take a break from everyday life.
Every First Friday of the month, the Pendleton Art Center opens its doors for visitors and anyone interested in seeing artwork and meeting some talented artists. Our Rising Sun artists, photographers, sculptors, glass artisans, weavers, potters, and musicians invite you to come to their studios to see their works; or just come hang out for refreshments and some great music on a Friday night in Rising Sun along the Ohio River. From contemporary to realistic expressionism, our artists enjoy opening their studios to the general public on First Friday's and Second-Look Saturday's to show their wares.
July in Rising Sun epitomizes the lazy days of summer... live music from the Main Street Stage on the river front, homemade ice cream, park benches, free boat hook ups, an eclectic array of dining options, and a free shuttle to the Grand Victoria Casino, golf course and hotel, featuring "Elvis" every weekend! A Classic Car Cruise-in is on Saturday, 7/8. Check out the website www.risingsunchamber.com for current events scheduled.
The Pendleton Art Center entertainment on First Friday is provided by local guitarist, Jamon Zeiler from the Zeiler Music Center in Rising Sun, featuring music from his second CD release.
Artists featured in the Pendleton Main Gallery are: Debi Black & Shirley Smith (the infamous "Boswell girls"!), Brenda Diehl, Bob and Nancy Minnick; and jewelry designers, Mike and Lydia Mondary.
WHERE - Pendleton Art Center
at 201 Main Street in Rising Sun IN, (812) 438-9900,
www.pendletonartcenter.com
WHEN - First Friday of July, 7/7, 5 - 9 pm
and... Second-Look Saturday, 7/8, 10 - 5 pm
COST - FREE to general public, sponsored by The Friendship Bank of Rising Sun
Economic Development Commission announces new website
The Rising Sun/Ohio County Economic Development Commission today unveils a new website to kick off its new economic initiative, designed to bring new business to this Southeastern Indiana community.
“To bring new business to the Rising Sun and Ohio County area, we need to showcase the ‘business friendly’ atmosphere here,” said Ed Sullivan, Rising Sun/Ohio County Economic Development Coordinator. “Our website is the starting place to showcase just what the Rising Sun area can offer new businesses.”
The Commission is launching www.risingsunworks.com as the ‘one stop shop’ for information and contacts for business. From information on the quality of life, to economic incentives available for businesses, any company can find out how to set up shop in the Rising Sun area, with just a few clicks of a computer mouse.
In addition, the Rising Sun Municipal Utilities (RSMU) has installed a county-wide, wireless, high-speed internet service that is available at competitive rates to both commercial and residential customers.
A new business park is also being developed in Ohio County just north of downtown Rising Sun, offering ample space for growing businesses with ease of highway access to the major interstates.
To learn more about the Rising Sun/Ohio County Economic Development Commission, contact Coordinator Ed Sullivan at P.O. Box 199, Rising Sun, IN 47040, phone 812.342.4935 or e-mail
esullivan43@comcast.net.
Source: Rising Sun/Ohio County Economic Development Commission
“To bring new business to the Rising Sun and Ohio County area, we need to showcase the ‘business friendly’ atmosphere here,” said Ed Sullivan, Rising Sun/Ohio County Economic Development Coordinator. “Our website is the starting place to showcase just what the Rising Sun area can offer new businesses.”
The Commission is launching www.risingsunworks.com as the ‘one stop shop’ for information and contacts for business. From information on the quality of life, to economic incentives available for businesses, any company can find out how to set up shop in the Rising Sun area, with just a few clicks of a computer mouse.
In addition, the Rising Sun Municipal Utilities (RSMU) has installed a county-wide, wireless, high-speed internet service that is available at competitive rates to both commercial and residential customers.
A new business park is also being developed in Ohio County just north of downtown Rising Sun, offering ample space for growing businesses with ease of highway access to the major interstates.
To learn more about the Rising Sun/Ohio County Economic Development Commission, contact Coordinator Ed Sullivan at P.O. Box 199, Rising Sun, IN 47040, phone 812.342.4935 or e-mail
esullivan43@comcast.net.
Source: Rising Sun/Ohio County Economic Development Commission
June 26, 2006
INDOT awards $673,600 to rehab historic Laughery Creek bridge
DEARBORN COUNTY, Ind. – The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) today announced it has awarded nearly $20 million in Transportation Enhancement Program (TEP) funds statewide. Each year, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) sets aside funds that states award to develop and build projects that enhance the existing transportation system. Indiana’s Transportation Enhancement Program allows funding for transportation projects to expand beyond the traditional accommodations for cars, trucks, buses and transit. In addition, TE projects expand transportation opportunities to a broader range of users. All TE projects include a required 20-percent local match to demonstrate a strong local commitment to the project.
This year, INDOT awarded $673,600 to finance the rehabilitation and restoration of a historic bridge across Laughery Creek connecting Dearborn and Ohio Counties. The Laughery Creek Bridge is a 300-foot single span through truss constructed as a replacement for an 1868 Howe Truss which fell into the creek on the night of June 3, 1878. Within six months of the collapse, the new bridge was constructed on the old stone abutments. The historic bridge is in poor repair and in danger of collapse. In 1994, it was placed on the list of the ten most endangered historic structures in Indiana. Local officials plan to rededicate the bridge on December 10, 2007, the 130th anniversary of the bridge’s original opening.
This year, INDOT awarded $673,600 to finance the rehabilitation and restoration of a historic bridge across Laughery Creek connecting Dearborn and Ohio Counties. The Laughery Creek Bridge is a 300-foot single span through truss constructed as a replacement for an 1868 Howe Truss which fell into the creek on the night of June 3, 1878. Within six months of the collapse, the new bridge was constructed on the old stone abutments. The historic bridge is in poor repair and in danger of collapse. In 1994, it was placed on the list of the ten most endangered historic structures in Indiana. Local officials plan to rededicate the bridge on December 10, 2007, the 130th anniversary of the bridge’s original opening.
June 9, 2006
Rising Sun Chalk Walk
Mark your calendars for the 2nd Annual Main Street Chalk Walk in downtown Rising Sun, Indiana. This year’s Chalk Walk will be held on Saturday, June 17, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. (With rain date set for June 24th.) On the day of the event, the reporting station for entries and chalk pickup will be at the white gazebo location on the corner of Main Street and N. Poplar Street. Entry fee is free if you are wearing a Rising Sun t-shirt or a Rising Sun summer league softball or baseball uniform t-shirt. Otherwise, entry is $5.00. The first 48 chalk walk participants will receive a Rising Sun Chalk Walk sun visor.
Individuals and families of all ages, interests and skills are encouraged to join in on the fun and participate in creating their own “masterpieces” using the sidewalk as their concrete canvases. The Chalk Walk provides fun for the whole family and an opportunity to get re-acquainted to Rising Sun’s fabulous Main Street area and what it has to offer as far as shopping and dining. Everyone else needs to consider themselves invited and be entertained by watching the progress of each artist as they create their own individual artwork on the sidewalk.
This year cash prizes will be awarded in three different age groups: 10 and under; 11 to 17; and 18 to adult. The following cash awards will be presented in each age group and one over-all “Best of Show” award.
First Prize in each age group: $50 @
Two Honorable Mentions in each age group: $25 @
Over-all “Best of Show” $100
Fill out the clip-out entry form online or in the Rising Sun Recorder and the Ohio County News, or pick up the entry at any Main Street business, or e-mail your request to downtown@enjoyrisingsun.com. Please, return your application to the Historic Downtown Program, 103 S. Walnut Street, Rising Sun, Indiana 47040. For more information on the Chalk Walk 2006 call: (812) 438-2750.
Individuals and families of all ages, interests and skills are encouraged to join in on the fun and participate in creating their own “masterpieces” using the sidewalk as their concrete canvases. The Chalk Walk provides fun for the whole family and an opportunity to get re-acquainted to Rising Sun’s fabulous Main Street area and what it has to offer as far as shopping and dining. Everyone else needs to consider themselves invited and be entertained by watching the progress of each artist as they create their own individual artwork on the sidewalk.
This year cash prizes will be awarded in three different age groups: 10 and under; 11 to 17; and 18 to adult. The following cash awards will be presented in each age group and one over-all “Best of Show” award.
First Prize in each age group: $50 @
Two Honorable Mentions in each age group: $25 @
Over-all “Best of Show” $100
Fill out the clip-out entry form online or in the Rising Sun Recorder and the Ohio County News, or pick up the entry at any Main Street business, or e-mail your request to downtown@enjoyrisingsun.com. Please, return your application to the Historic Downtown Program, 103 S. Walnut Street, Rising Sun, Indiana 47040. For more information on the Chalk Walk 2006 call: (812) 438-2750.
June 1, 2006
Happy (Wine) Trails
Wine connoisseurs should head south to the Indiana Wine Trail, a recently launched self-guided tour that visits six Hoosier wineries in five southeastern Indiana counties.
The Wine Trail includes stops at Ertel Cellars Winery (Ripley County), Chateau Pomije Winery (Dearborn County), The Ridge Winery (Switzerland County), and Madison Vineyards, Lanthier Winery and The Thomas Family Winery, all in Jefferson County. Also included on the drive is the Around the Corner Wine & Coffee Shop in Rising Sun.
Validate a VIP (very important patron) passport at each of the six stops between now and May 31, 2007, and your name will be entered into a drawing for prizes that include a Winemaker for a Day experience at Ertel Cellars Winery. For an Indiana Wine Trail map visit www.indianawinetrail.com or call (888) 776-4786.
The Wine Trail includes stops at Ertel Cellars Winery (Ripley County), Chateau Pomije Winery (Dearborn County), The Ridge Winery (Switzerland County), and Madison Vineyards, Lanthier Winery and The Thomas Family Winery, all in Jefferson County. Also included on the drive is the Around the Corner Wine & Coffee Shop in Rising Sun.
Validate a VIP (very important patron) passport at each of the six stops between now and May 31, 2007, and your name will be entered into a drawing for prizes that include a Winemaker for a Day experience at Ertel Cellars Winery. For an Indiana Wine Trail map visit www.indianawinetrail.com or call (888) 776-4786.
May 30, 2006
First Friday
Friday June 2, 2006
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
CLICK HERE FOR THE CHAMBER'S NEW FIRST FRIDAY PAGE!
FIRST FRIDAY OF JUNE FEATURES NEW ARTISTS IN PENDLETON ART CENTER IN RISING SUN, INDIANA...
Several award winning artists will be featured in the Main Gallery of Pendleton Art Center on First Friday in June, 6/2, from 5 - 9 p.m. --
Come to the Pendleton Art Center Wednesday through Sunday through the Summer, or come celebrate winning artists at the First Friday in June with entertainment and refreshments hosted by the Friendship Bank in Rising Sun.
Every First Friday of the month, the Art Center opens its doors for visitors and anyone interested in seeing artwork from some talented local artists; or, who just want to come hang out for refreshments and some great music on a Friday Night in Rising Sun along the Ohio River.
Come early to discover specialty shops, casual and fine dining, camping, hotels, Bed & breakfasts, golf, and Indiana's finest riverboat Casino. The Art Center is just a block away from the new riverfront park with free docking area for boaters.
Refreshments are provided by Around the Corner Coffee & Wine Shoppe on Poplar Street in Rising Sun.
Entertainment is provided by local guitarist, Jamon Zeiler from the Zeiler Music Center also in Rising Sun, featuring music from his new second CD release!
WHERE - Pendleton Art Center
at 201 Main Street in Rising Sun IN, (812) 438-9900,
www.pendletonartcenter.com
WHEN - First Friday of June, 6/2, 5 - 9 pm
and... Second-Look Saturday, 6/3, 10 - 5 pm
COST - FREE to general public
WHO - Contact Suzanne Sizer at 513-324-7322 for more details or for artist interviews.
Indiana ferry plan won't float
The Kentucky Community Reporter gives us some insight on why the plans for a ferry from Rising Sun, Ind., to Belleview have been scuttled.
Committee members, like residents opposed to the project, expressed concern about such issues as the ferry being compatible to the rural area and traffic.
In Boone County, the ferry would have operated on a 4.32-acre site between McVille Road (Ky. 18) and the Ohio River. The property is north of 7575 McVille Road. The port authority was seeking to change the site's zoning from agricultural estate to recreation.
Proponents argued the ferry would have saved motorists time traveling from Rising Sun to Florence. But residents didn't want their rural community disturbed.
Brett said the site is probably the best location anywhere close by for a ferry.
For those of you who wondered: cav·a·lier means:
n.
1. A gallant or chivalrous man, especially one serving as escort to a woman of high social position; a gentleman.
2. A mounted soldier; a knight.
3. Cavalier A supporter of Charles I of England in his struggles against Parliament. Also called Royalist.
adj.
1. Showing arrogant or offhand disregard; dismissive: a cavalier attitude toward the suffering of others.
2. Carefree and nonchalant; jaunty.
3. Cavalier Of or relating to a group of 17th-century English poets associated with the court of Charles I.
[French, horseman, from Old Italian cavaliere, from Late Latin caballrius, from Latin caballus, horse.]
cava·lierly adv.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition copyright ©2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2003. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
The Boone County Planning Commission was scheduled to vote on the project May 16 but instead the application for a zoning change and a conditional use permit were withdrawn.
"We just didn't feel it was going to go through, so we just went ahead and withdrew it for now and we'll re-approach it again here sometime in the future," said Gary Brett, chairman of the Rising Sun/Ohio County Port Authority.
The planning commission's Zone Change Committee voted 4-0 on two separate motions May 3 to deny the zone change and the conditional use permit.
Committee members, like residents opposed to the project, expressed concern about such issues as the ferry being compatible to the rural area and traffic.
In Boone County, the ferry would have operated on a 4.32-acre site between McVille Road (Ky. 18) and the Ohio River. The property is north of 7575 McVille Road. The port authority was seeking to change the site's zoning from agricultural estate to recreation.
Proponents argued the ferry would have saved motorists time traveling from Rising Sun to Florence. But residents didn't want their rural community disturbed.
Former Boone County Commissioner Patrick Raverty, who lives in Belleview, said residents are extremely pleased that the application was withdrawn. He said the location "was an extremely poor site for a ferry."
"It was not well thought out," he said. "It happened to be the site that was most convenient for Rising Sun and Ohio County with little consideration for Kentucky residents."
Brett said the site is probably the best location anywhere close by for a ferry.
"So, we won't be changing that but we'll just look at, see how we can work with Boone County to make it a more successful venture for both," he said, later adding other sites won't be examined at this time.
Raverty said residents would vigorously oppose the ferry at the site or anywhere near it. He said any attempt by Rising Sun and Ohio County officials to do that "would be extremely cavalier."
For those of you who wondered: cav·a·lier means:
n.
1. A gallant or chivalrous man, especially one serving as escort to a woman of high social position; a gentleman.
2. A mounted soldier; a knight.
3. Cavalier A supporter of Charles I of England in his struggles against Parliament. Also called Royalist.
adj.
1. Showing arrogant or offhand disregard; dismissive: a cavalier attitude toward the suffering of others.
2. Carefree and nonchalant; jaunty.
3. Cavalier Of or relating to a group of 17th-century English poets associated with the court of Charles I.
[French, horseman, from Old Italian cavaliere, from Late Latin caballrius, from Latin caballus, horse.]
cava·lierly adv.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition copyright ©2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2003. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
May 25, 2006
ZOE VANDERMEER IN CONCERT AT HARPS ON MAIN
222 MAIN STREET
SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2006 – 7:00 P.M.
Harps on Main and the Historic Downtown Program will be hosting in concert Zoe Vandermeer, Coloratura Soprano and Baroque Triple Harp musician.
The concert will be held at Harps on Main, located at 222 Main Street, Rising Sun, Indiana on Saturday, May 27th, at 7:00 P.M. Admission is free to all Ohio County residents ( show drivers license) and $10 for all attendee outside of Ohio County.
Zoe Vandermeer is a graduate of the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama where she was awarded several prizes and scholarships. She also studied composition at Manhattan School of Music and acting at the American Conservatory Theatre. She holds a degree in Humanities from the New College of California.
Ms. Vandermeer was winner of the Bay Area Vocal Arts Competition and was recipient of the Emerging Artists Fund. She was a finalist in the London Young Artists Early Music Competition, the Wilfred Laurier Concert Aria Competition (Canada), the Northwest Early Music forum Competition (England), and the Bay Area Artists Fellowship Grant. Ms Vandermeer has performed her original one-woman show about love, betrayal, revenge and madness, “If Love Be the Food of Musick, 1782, (in which she accompanies her singing on harp and harpsichord the music of Dowland, Purcell, Handel, and others), at the International Fringe Theatre Festival and in various historical sites and venues. Articles about “If Love…” have appeared in Swiss publication “Harpa” and the Classical Singer Magazine. Her operatic roles include Violetta, Lucia, Juliet, Olympia, Queen of the Night, and Goddess of the Deep. The latter role is in her original show “Zoe’s Musical Fairy Tale, Upon A Time”. Her show, in which she wrote the story, the poetic libretto and composed to Phantom of the Opera, Into the Woods, Secret Garden, Grimm’s Fairy Tales, and Sweeney Todd.
As a singer/composer, she was commissioned to write “The Enchanted Nightingale”. She performed as the coloratura soloist with the Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra, internationally acclaimed Sonos Handbell Ensembe and the Oakland Symphony Chamber Chorus. The San Francisco Sinfonietta premiered her work “In Man’s Heart is a Little Room”, in which she sang the soprano solo with the violin soloist and string orchestra.
Ms. Vandermeer has been a featured guest on radio stations in California, Indiana, and Scotland and her CDs have aired on radio stations across the U.S. Her CD “Murder Lullaby”, which features selections from her show Zoe’s Musical Fairy Tale, Upon A Time”, was nominated fro an album award by the international songwriting organization Just Plain Folks in 2000. They reviewed it as – ‘think Sweeney Todd with 10xthe intensity’ – and added her harp to their T-Shirt! The following year, she received a standing ovation for her song ‘Icy Waters” at the Just Plain Folks convention in Los Angeles. A feature interview with Ms. Vandermeer appears in the early June, 05 issue of the Litchfield County Times, and includes photos not only of Ms. Vandermeer, but also of her artwork for the future boo of ‘Zoe’s Musical Fairy Tale, Upon A Time’. When Ms. Vandermeer isn’t singing, playing the harp, composing, or wearing her hat as producer/engineer of Live Sound Studios, she is spending time with her horse Magic where they live in northwest Connecticut.
For more information on the concert contact: Harps on Main at (812) 438-3032 or the Historic Downtown Program at (812) 438-2750.
SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2006 – 7:00 P.M.
Harps on Main and the Historic Downtown Program will be hosting in concert Zoe Vandermeer, Coloratura Soprano and Baroque Triple Harp musician.
The concert will be held at Harps on Main, located at 222 Main Street, Rising Sun, Indiana on Saturday, May 27th, at 7:00 P.M. Admission is free to all Ohio County residents ( show drivers license) and $10 for all attendee outside of Ohio County.
Zoe Vandermeer is a graduate of the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama where she was awarded several prizes and scholarships. She also studied composition at Manhattan School of Music and acting at the American Conservatory Theatre. She holds a degree in Humanities from the New College of California.
Ms. Vandermeer was winner of the Bay Area Vocal Arts Competition and was recipient of the Emerging Artists Fund. She was a finalist in the London Young Artists Early Music Competition, the Wilfred Laurier Concert Aria Competition (Canada), the Northwest Early Music forum Competition (England), and the Bay Area Artists Fellowship Grant. Ms Vandermeer has performed her original one-woman show about love, betrayal, revenge and madness, “If Love Be the Food of Musick, 1782, (in which she accompanies her singing on harp and harpsichord the music of Dowland, Purcell, Handel, and others), at the International Fringe Theatre Festival and in various historical sites and venues. Articles about “If Love…” have appeared in Swiss publication “Harpa” and the Classical Singer Magazine. Her operatic roles include Violetta, Lucia, Juliet, Olympia, Queen of the Night, and Goddess of the Deep. The latter role is in her original show “Zoe’s Musical Fairy Tale, Upon A Time”. Her show, in which she wrote the story, the poetic libretto and composed to Phantom of the Opera, Into the Woods, Secret Garden, Grimm’s Fairy Tales, and Sweeney Todd.
As a singer/composer, she was commissioned to write “The Enchanted Nightingale”. She performed as the coloratura soloist with the Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra, internationally acclaimed Sonos Handbell Ensembe and the Oakland Symphony Chamber Chorus. The San Francisco Sinfonietta premiered her work “In Man’s Heart is a Little Room”, in which she sang the soprano solo with the violin soloist and string orchestra.
Ms. Vandermeer has been a featured guest on radio stations in California, Indiana, and Scotland and her CDs have aired on radio stations across the U.S. Her CD “Murder Lullaby”, which features selections from her show Zoe’s Musical Fairy Tale, Upon A Time”, was nominated fro an album award by the international songwriting organization Just Plain Folks in 2000. They reviewed it as – ‘think Sweeney Todd with 10xthe intensity’ – and added her harp to their T-Shirt! The following year, she received a standing ovation for her song ‘Icy Waters” at the Just Plain Folks convention in Los Angeles. A feature interview with Ms. Vandermeer appears in the early June, 05 issue of the Litchfield County Times, and includes photos not only of Ms. Vandermeer, but also of her artwork for the future boo of ‘Zoe’s Musical Fairy Tale, Upon A Time’. When Ms. Vandermeer isn’t singing, playing the harp, composing, or wearing her hat as producer/engineer of Live Sound Studios, she is spending time with her horse Magic where they live in northwest Connecticut.
For more information on the concert contact: Harps on Main at (812) 438-3032 or the Historic Downtown Program at (812) 438-2750.
HOOSIER SALON PRE-SHOW AT SOLAR FLAIR STUDIO
Rosemary Butterbaugh is one of the feature artists at the prestigious Hoosier Salon Gallery in the Broadripple area of Indianapolis, June 16 to July 22, 2006. .She will exhibit a selection of her most important work at the show, titled “Poetry in Nature. Open House for “Poetry in Nature,” is June 16, 5:00 – 8:00 PM.
In preparation for this exhibit, Rosemary is inviting the public to help choose which 15 of her new paintings should be included in this influential show Viewers are invited choose their 5 favorite pieces large selection displayed floor to ceiling in her studio. Rosemary believes that the response of the viewer to a work of art completes the work itself; that is when the artist and viewer communicate. Viewer responses will be tallied to help choose the most effective pieces for the Hoosier Salon exhibition.
Rosemary’s work will be on display in Solar Flair Studio for First Friday, June 2, 5:00-8:00 PM and Saturday 11:00 to 4:00. Tally sheets can be picked up at the studio door during those times.
Because most of the new work has not yet been matted and framed, it is tacked up covering the entire wall of the Studio. All of the work is for sale to people in this area before it goes to Indianapolis. Offering it unframed reduces the usual prices.
In order to be chosen for a show at Hoosier Salon Gallery an artist must have been selected into at least four of their Annual Exhibitions, which are presented at the Indiana State Museum, and have received at least one award. Rosemary has received an award each of the past two years.
Hoosier Salon, one of Indiana’s most well known art organizations, will have its 82nd Annual Exhibition this year, July 31 to September 17.
Solar Flair Studio, which replaces the Gallery on Main St., is open First Friday’s and by appointment. Call 812-438-4910.
In preparation for this exhibit, Rosemary is inviting the public to help choose which 15 of her new paintings should be included in this influential show Viewers are invited choose their 5 favorite pieces large selection displayed floor to ceiling in her studio. Rosemary believes that the response of the viewer to a work of art completes the work itself; that is when the artist and viewer communicate. Viewer responses will be tallied to help choose the most effective pieces for the Hoosier Salon exhibition.
Rosemary’s work will be on display in Solar Flair Studio for First Friday, June 2, 5:00-8:00 PM and Saturday 11:00 to 4:00. Tally sheets can be picked up at the studio door during those times.
Because most of the new work has not yet been matted and framed, it is tacked up covering the entire wall of the Studio. All of the work is for sale to people in this area before it goes to Indianapolis. Offering it unframed reduces the usual prices.
In order to be chosen for a show at Hoosier Salon Gallery an artist must have been selected into at least four of their Annual Exhibitions, which are presented at the Indiana State Museum, and have received at least one award. Rosemary has received an award each of the past two years.
Hoosier Salon, one of Indiana’s most well known art organizations, will have its 82nd Annual Exhibition this year, July 31 to September 17.
Solar Flair Studio, which replaces the Gallery on Main St., is open First Friday’s and by appointment. Call 812-438-4910.
May 22, 2006
Ferry proposal docked
(BURLINGTON, Ky.) -- Promoters of a controversial proposal to open a ferry on the Ohio River that would travel between northern Kentucky and Indiana have withdrawn the proposal.
The Rising Sun/Ohio County Port Authority in Indiana pulled its request for a zone change Tuesday. Florence attorney Gerry Dusing, who was representing the port authority, did not explain the action but dropped hints that this idea could be resurrected.
Some Boone County residents said the Ohio River operation would have increased traffic and noisein March after the plans became public.
The proposal had called for a public boat ramp and about eight parking spots at the ferry's docking point in Kentucky on property located on Ky. 18 in Belleview. The ferry would have been able to carry eight cars at a time.
Ed Sullivan, executive director of the Rising Sun Regional Foundation, which was planning to fund part of the project, declined to comment.
May 12, 2006
New Summer serenades Webpage
The new Summer Serenades and Samples Webpage is up and running. Please take the opportunity to visit it at Summer serenades
Our new summer interns (part-time) will start next week to coordinate the activities for this busy summer. Please plan to be involved in this exciting project.
May 8, 2006
Pendleton Art Center in Rising Sun announces expanded Summer Hours
The Pendleton Art Center in Rising Sun announces it's expanded Summer Hours through September 2006...
Wednesday - Friday, 12 noon - 5 p.m.
Except First Friday of every month... 12 noon - 8 p.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday, 12 noon - 4 p.m.
Monday & Tuesday by appointment only
WHERE: 201 Main Street, Rising Sun, IN
WHO: 30+ Artists from Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky
www.pendletonartcenter.com
(812) 438-9900
Wednesday - Friday, 12 noon - 5 p.m.
Except First Friday of every month... 12 noon - 8 p.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday, 12 noon - 4 p.m.
Monday & Tuesday by appointment only
WHERE: 201 Main Street, Rising Sun, IN
WHO: 30+ Artists from Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky
www.pendletonartcenter.com
(812) 438-9900
May 1, 2006
MAY FIRST FRIDAY IN RISING SUN CELEBRATES BIRTHDAYS
MAY FIRST FRIDAY IN RISING SUN CELEBRATES BIRTHDAYS
May 5 celebrates the seventh anniversary of the Art as Economics program. Rising Sun’s first galleries opened in May of 1999. Vera Curnow’s Gallery and Art Center was first followed by Solar Flair Gallery a month later. Each gallery represented numerous artists local, regional and national. Many of these artist had wide reputations.
Both galleries have undergone changes, but remain vital. Vera’s MainArtery now features her own work. It is only 2 doors down from Pendleton.
Rosemary Butterbaugh’s Solar Flair Gallery is now Solar Flair Studio, 417 Poplar St. Rosemary, too, is also focusing on developing and presenting her own work.
The new Artist Stipend program has brought these two art gallery/studios into the center of attention and encouraged more to join, such as Andrea Grimsley’s open studio 317 Main, next door to Zeiler’s Music. Lynn Englar’s Around the Corner coffee shop also offers her artwork.
With these places First Friday in Rising Sun is more than a one-stop art show. It has become an art walk of several galleries and studios in close proximity.
For more information contact
Rosemary Butterbaugh
Solar Flair Studio
417 S. Poplar St.
Rising Sun IN 47040
812-438-4910
May 5 celebrates the seventh anniversary of the Art as Economics program. Rising Sun’s first galleries opened in May of 1999. Vera Curnow’s Gallery and Art Center was first followed by Solar Flair Gallery a month later. Each gallery represented numerous artists local, regional and national. Many of these artist had wide reputations.
Both galleries have undergone changes, but remain vital. Vera’s MainArtery now features her own work. It is only 2 doors down from Pendleton.
Rosemary Butterbaugh’s Solar Flair Gallery is now Solar Flair Studio, 417 Poplar St. Rosemary, too, is also focusing on developing and presenting her own work.
The new Artist Stipend program has brought these two art gallery/studios into the center of attention and encouraged more to join, such as Andrea Grimsley’s open studio 317 Main, next door to Zeiler’s Music. Lynn Englar’s Around the Corner coffee shop also offers her artwork.
With these places First Friday in Rising Sun is more than a one-stop art show. It has become an art walk of several galleries and studios in close proximity.
For more information contact
Rosemary Butterbaugh
Solar Flair Studio
417 S. Poplar St.
Rising Sun IN 47040
812-438-4910
April 28, 2006
News
FIFTH ANNIVERSARY FOR ART CENTER IN RISING SUN...
Come visit the Pendleton Art Center in Rising Sun, Indiana, for a Fifth Anniversary Birthday celebration on Friday night, May 5th, 5-8pm.
All 30 artists will be exhibiting their works, plus a few will be actually working in their studios for all to see and enjoy.
Also featured will be entertainment, refreshments, cake and balloons, plus some surprise guests for the evening. Bring family and friends to downtown historic Rising Sun on the Ohio River.
Every First Friday of the month, the Art Center opens its doors for visitors and anyone interested in seeing and/or purchasing artwork from some talented local artists; or, who just want to come hang out for refreshments and some great music on a Friday Night in Rising Sun on the Ohio River.
Refreshments will be provided by Lynn Englar (also a local artist) from the Around the Corner Coffee & Wine Shoppe on Poplar Street in Rising Sun.
Entertainment will be provided by local guitarist, Jamon Zeiler from the Zeiler Music Center in Rising Sun, with his 2nd CD release available now!
WHERE - Pendleton Art Center in the historic Pavey Building
201 Main Street
Rising Sun IN
WHEN - First Friday of May, 5/5, 5 - 8 pm and... 2nd Look Saturday, 5/6, 11 - 4 pm
COST - FREE to general public
Ohio County in Ink: Buildings of Ohio County.
An exhibit of pen and ink drawings of buildings both past and present will open at the Ohio County Historical Museum on May 5 at 7:00 p.m. Join Rising Sun resident and attorney, Lane Siekman at the opening. Lane has created over 20 drawings including images of the Presbyterian Seminary, the Ohio County Courthouse, Empire House, and Cass-Union School. Refreshments will be served.
MainSource to buy 5 First Financial banks
Hamilton-based First Financial Bank has agreed to sell five Southeastern Indiana bank offices in Vevay, East Enterprise, Madison and Liberty, Ind., to MainSource Bank, a subsidiary of MainSource Financial Group Inc. of Greensburg, Ind., First Financial said this week.
MainSource already has numerous branches in Madison, Vevay, Rising Sun, Versailles and St. Leon.
The deal includes the assumption by MainSource of about $30 million in loans and property and about $56 million in deposit accounts. First Financial said the sale, expected to close in September, would result in a pretax gain of about $4.5 million.
The company is also selling two branches in Michigan, details of which haven't been disclosed.
Come visit the Pendleton Art Center in Rising Sun, Indiana, for a Fifth Anniversary Birthday celebration on Friday night, May 5th, 5-8pm.
All 30 artists will be exhibiting their works, plus a few will be actually working in their studios for all to see and enjoy.
Also featured will be entertainment, refreshments, cake and balloons, plus some surprise guests for the evening. Bring family and friends to downtown historic Rising Sun on the Ohio River.
Every First Friday of the month, the Art Center opens its doors for visitors and anyone interested in seeing and/or purchasing artwork from some talented local artists; or, who just want to come hang out for refreshments and some great music on a Friday Night in Rising Sun on the Ohio River.
Refreshments will be provided by Lynn Englar (also a local artist) from the Around the Corner Coffee & Wine Shoppe on Poplar Street in Rising Sun.
Entertainment will be provided by local guitarist, Jamon Zeiler from the Zeiler Music Center in Rising Sun, with his 2nd CD release available now!
WHERE - Pendleton Art Center in the historic Pavey Building
201 Main Street
Rising Sun IN
WHEN - First Friday of May, 5/5, 5 - 8 pm and... 2nd Look Saturday, 5/6, 11 - 4 pm
COST - FREE to general public
Ohio County in Ink: Buildings of Ohio County.
An exhibit of pen and ink drawings of buildings both past and present will open at the Ohio County Historical Museum on May 5 at 7:00 p.m. Join Rising Sun resident and attorney, Lane Siekman at the opening. Lane has created over 20 drawings including images of the Presbyterian Seminary, the Ohio County Courthouse, Empire House, and Cass-Union School. Refreshments will be served.
MainSource to buy 5 First Financial banks
Hamilton-based First Financial Bank has agreed to sell five Southeastern Indiana bank offices in Vevay, East Enterprise, Madison and Liberty, Ind., to MainSource Bank, a subsidiary of MainSource Financial Group Inc. of Greensburg, Ind., First Financial said this week.
MainSource already has numerous branches in Madison, Vevay, Rising Sun, Versailles and St. Leon.
The deal includes the assumption by MainSource of about $30 million in loans and property and about $56 million in deposit accounts. First Financial said the sale, expected to close in September, would result in a pretax gain of about $4.5 million.
The company is also selling two branches in Michigan, details of which haven't been disclosed.
April 7, 2006
City Council approve Summer Serenades and Samplers 2006
The Rising Sun City Council last night approved a grant to the Rising Sun - Ohio County Chamber of Commerce for production of “Summer Serenades and Samplers 2006”
The Summer Serenades and Samplers program is a season-long series of concerts and events in downtown Rising Sun, Indiana designed to encourage weekend traffic into the downtown area or a regular basis. The City and the Chamber provided funds to have this event in June and July of 2005 and the Chamber hopes to bring a full series of events back downtown this summer. The events will begin on June 3 and continue each week up until the Navy Bean Festival in October.
This series is being coordinated this year with the Historic Downtown Program and the Ohio County Tourism Bureau to maximize the viability of the promotion. In 2005, the events were run independently by the Downtown Merchants Association. While this group is no longer in existence; a large number of its remaining participants have merged into the Chamber and the Historic Downtown Program.
We will be utilizing local musicians and bands for the entertainment. Most events will be relatively low cost with a few larger groups spread throughout the series. Most events will be held at the riverfront with a few others held in the downtown area (sidewalks, gazebo, indoor facilities when needed for rain dates or other reasons)
In conjunction with the series, each week will feature samples of food from area restaurants, vendors, and non-profit organizations (for example: BBQ, Chili cookoff, etc.) These items are to be sponsored as donations by the individual businesses or sold by the non-profits.
The closing of Main Street is not anticipated this year for these events. There may be tables and chairs placed at the pavilion or on the sidewalks.
Council also approved the Chamber's request for a part-time summer employee (College Student) to coordinate and run the summer event program.
The Chamber is also seeking business sponsors, non-profit groups, volunteers and others who are interested in becoming a part of this exciting series. For more information please contact the Chamber at 438-3130.
The Summer Serenades and Samplers program is a season-long series of concerts and events in downtown Rising Sun, Indiana designed to encourage weekend traffic into the downtown area or a regular basis. The City and the Chamber provided funds to have this event in June and July of 2005 and the Chamber hopes to bring a full series of events back downtown this summer. The events will begin on June 3 and continue each week up until the Navy Bean Festival in October.
This series is being coordinated this year with the Historic Downtown Program and the Ohio County Tourism Bureau to maximize the viability of the promotion. In 2005, the events were run independently by the Downtown Merchants Association. While this group is no longer in existence; a large number of its remaining participants have merged into the Chamber and the Historic Downtown Program.
We will be utilizing local musicians and bands for the entertainment. Most events will be relatively low cost with a few larger groups spread throughout the series. Most events will be held at the riverfront with a few others held in the downtown area (sidewalks, gazebo, indoor facilities when needed for rain dates or other reasons)
In conjunction with the series, each week will feature samples of food from area restaurants, vendors, and non-profit organizations (for example: BBQ, Chili cookoff, etc.) These items are to be sponsored as donations by the individual businesses or sold by the non-profits.
The closing of Main Street is not anticipated this year for these events. There may be tables and chairs placed at the pavilion or on the sidewalks.
Council also approved the Chamber's request for a part-time summer employee (College Student) to coordinate and run the summer event program.
The Chamber is also seeking business sponsors, non-profit groups, volunteers and others who are interested in becoming a part of this exciting series. For more information please contact the Chamber at 438-3130.
More Ferry News
The Community Recorder in Kentucky has posted a story on the ferryboat hearing last week in Burlington. LINK
A Boone County Planning Commission committee will consider the project when it meets at 5 p.m. May 3 in Courtroom 3A of the Boone County Administration Building, Burlington. The entire commission could vote on the proposal when it meets at 7 p.m. May 17 in the same location.
The project would then go to the Boone County Fiscal Court. It would also need approval from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
A Boone County Planning Commission committee will consider the project when it meets at 5 p.m. May 3 in Courtroom 3A of the Boone County Administration Building, Burlington. The entire commission could vote on the proposal when it meets at 7 p.m. May 17 in the same location.
The project would then go to the Boone County Fiscal Court. It would also need approval from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
March 31, 2006
Proposed ferry gets mixed reactions
The Cincinnati Post reported on the Wednesday night hearing before the Boone County Planning Commission in Burlington. They stated that the ferry proposal received "mixed reviews". The Rising Sun/Ohio County Port Authority is pushing for a zone change on a 4.2-acre lot in Belleview that would be developed as the dock and parking lot for the ferry, which would run between the Boone County hamlet and Rising Sun, Ind.
Supporters of the ferry stated that the plan was not designed to increase business at Grand Victoria Casino
Rising Sun official have long contended that the Ferry is help people who commute from Rising Sun to Boone County for jobs, doctor's visits and various other reasons.
Supporters of the ferry stated that the plan was not designed to increase business at Grand Victoria Casino
The city and the Rising Sun Regional Foundation, an economic development organization funded mainly by assessments on Grand Victoria, would foot the $500,000 cost of establishing the ferry.
"That's the farthest thing from the truth," foundation's executive director Ed Sullivan said of the purported link between the casino and plans for the ferry.
Rising Sun official have long contended that the Ferry is help people who commute from Rising Sun to Boone County for jobs, doctor's visits and various other reasons.
Patricia Walton, of Rising Sun, supported the ferry.
She said she owned auto part stores in both Rising Sun and Burlington, and the ferry would shorten her commute. "I think it would be very helpful. I travel back and forth from both places. Lots of people do."
Mark Madden, of Bellevue, has commuted to Rising Sun for the past 10 years for work.
He said a ferry would be a welcome addition, particularly on days when traffic on Interstate 275 is congested after an accident.
"I don't buy much in Indiana. I buy my things in Kentucky," Madden said. "But there are a lot of people like me who make that drive every day. This sure would be a big help."
Proponents say the ferry is designed to carry about 200 vehicles per day at about $4 per ride. The ferry would operate from dawn to dusk and would not carry any large trucks or other vehicles over 20,000 pounds.
Many residents, though, particularly those who live near the ferry's proposed docking point in Kentucky, worried the plan would increase traffic and ruin the rural nature of the area.
Mark Goodridge, who lives on McVille Road adjacent to the proposed ferry landing, said cutting into the shoreline to create the space for the dock could increase erosion of his property.
"Every year, I lose property to the river," Goodridge said. "What happens if this plan doesn't work out and all my property starts slipping into the river.
"Who is going to be responsible for that?"
Sandra Jones, another resident on McVille Road, said noise from the ferry and the vehicles it carries would be burdensome to the community.
"As it is right now, we can hear the cops pulling people over in Indiana," Jones said. "Don't tell me I'm not going to be able to hear a riverboat."
The proposal will now go before the planning commission's zone change committee, then to the full planning commission.
The Boone County Fiscal Court will have the ultimate decision on the venture, although the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also must approve it.
March 28, 2006
Kentucky Residents worry Ferry project won't help the county
The Cincinnati Post reports opposition to the Ferry Plan
By Luke E. Saladin
Cincinnati Post staff reporter
A plan to open a ferry between Rising Sun, Ind., and Belleview, Ky., is drawing opposition from local residents who fear traffic generated by the operation would tax rural roads in western Boone County. . .
"There are a number of concerns, including the traffic the project is going to bring to the area," said Patrick Lense, a Petersburg, Ky., resident who opposes the project. "The main problem is simply that the ferry would only benefit Rising Sun and Indiana's riverboat casinos. There would be virtually no benefits for Boone County."
Jim Carmichael, a real estate agent with First Commercial Realty in Florence, is helping to broker the deal. He stressed that the ferry is being proposed to help people in Rising Sun commute to Boone County, not to improve access to Grand Victoria Casino & Resort, located one mile away from where the ferry would dock in Indiana.
"The gambling boats have absolutely nothing to do with this," Carmichael said. "We could care less about the gambling boats."
But many Boone County residents are dubious about that assertion because of the involvement in the process of the Rising Sun Regional Foundation, which is funded in part by the Grand Victoria Casino.
"We know that casino money is tied to the project," said Pat Raferty, of Burlington, Ky. "The project is very close to a residential area, and it is going to be cutting into a high bank in the Ohio River. It's just not a very well thought-out project."
Also troubling to residents is the ferry's potential for spurring growth.
As residential development has exploded in Boone County over the past few years, county planners and elected officials have tried to keep it contained to the eastern portion of the county, allowing much of western Boone County to retain its rural character.
Carmichael contends that the ferry would not bring a significant amount of traffic to western Boone County. He said a traffic study will be presented at a hearing Wednesday that he believes should put some of those fears to rest.
"We're talking about a maximum of eight cars every 30 minutes," Carmichael said. "The impact is going to be minimal, but we understand that for some people, minimal is just too much. We're trying to satisfy the people who are opposed to this as best as we can."
Wayne Fairchild, who lives in McVille near the proposed ferry landing, said while he has some concerns about the ferry bringing drunk drivers from the gambling boats, he thinks the project could be a benefit for the community.
The ferry would have really been beneficial 10 years ago before the Grand Victoria casino opened because many people commuted from Rising Sun to jobs at the East Bend power plant on Ky. 338 in Boone County, Fairchild said.
He believes, though, that the number of workers coming from Rising Sun has dwindled over the years.
"I'm a member of a farming club in Indiana, so I would probably use the ferry a couple of times a year," Fairchild said. "I'm not a fan of gambling, but a lot of people need to get across the river and it takes a while to go up to Interstate 275, so I think it could be beneficial."
By Luke E. Saladin
Cincinnati Post staff reporter
March 24, 2006
CHAMBER IS HOSTING PRIMARY MEET THE CANDIDATES FORUM
The Rising Sun - Ohio County Chamber of Commerce is extending an invitation to all Ohio County candidates seeking an elected position in the 2006 primary election to participate in a Meet the Candidates Forum. The forum will allow candidates to introduce themselves and address members of the RSOC Chamber of Commerce concerning their stance on community issues in an informal panel discussion. Those attending will have the opportunity to write down questions to be addressed by the candidates. Candidates will then be able to read the questions prior to answering.
The forum will take place Monday, April 10, 2006 in the Commissioner’s Room of the Ohio County Courthouse following the RSOC Chamber of Commerce membership meeting. A chamber of commerce membership meeting will begin at 6:30PM and the forum will begin at 7:00PM and conclude no later than 8:00PM.
The Rising Sun Ohio County Chamber of Commerce currently has 48 members and is growing every day. We hope this evening will be an opportunity for candidates to meet our members and discuss community issues that are important to us all.
Link to Chamber Calendar
The forum will take place Monday, April 10, 2006 in the Commissioner’s Room of the Ohio County Courthouse following the RSOC Chamber of Commerce membership meeting. A chamber of commerce membership meeting will begin at 6:30PM and the forum will begin at 7:00PM and conclude no later than 8:00PM.
The Rising Sun Ohio County Chamber of Commerce currently has 48 members and is growing every day. We hope this evening will be an opportunity for candidates to meet our members and discuss community issues that are important to us all.
Link to Chamber Calendar
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