Good News Southeastern Indiana: DCCF and Tami Wenning jump into action during heal...

Good News Southeastern Indiana: DCCF and Tami Wenning jump into action during heal...: If you are from Greensburg and Decatur County, then you are not shocked and surprised at the efforts of many, especially in times of crisis...

DCCF and Tami Wenning jump into action during health crisis

If you are from Greensburg and Decatur County, then you are not shocked and surprised at the efforts of many, especially in times of crisis. This won’t surprise you either, but I am going to tell you about it anyway.

In her sixth year as the Executive Director of the Decatur County Community Foundation, my friend Tami Wenning wasted very little time in stepping up to the plate during the current COVID-19 health crisis.

The Decatur County Community Foundation quickly put together plans for a Rapid Response Grant consisting of $25,000 and they established the Decatur County Community Disaster Relief Fund. The Foundation put in $20,000 to use as a dollar-for-dollar match meaning any dollar donated into that fund is matched and it goes back into the community providing much needed assistance during this crisis.

Within one week of rolling out the RRG, the Foundation sent out checks for nearly $22,000 to provide additional funding for Meals on Wheels, Human Services, Gleaner’s Food Bank, Carousel Play and Learn Center, AGAPE, Letts Ambulance Service, the Decatur County Family YMCA and others providing immediate and tangible relief to the community.

And how about this – the Disaster Relief Fund received $30,000 from First Financial Bank and $9,000 of that went immediately to assisting the Decatur County School Corporation to implement mobile hot spots to facilitate e-learning, a critical asset for the school year since school instruction as we have known changed in an instant.

The DCCF is also discussing ways to help small businesses in our community and planning continues with that project. Of course, all of this has the blessings of the DCCF Board of Directors lead by retired banker Daryl Tressler as President of the Board. I am told that Daryl just gets things done and I believe it, having seen him in action many times since I came to this county in 1995.

And all this good doesn’t happen just because of one person. While Tami Wenning is in the big chair, she has built an excellent staff including Jenny Nobbe Schebler who keeps the bills paid and continues to work with the scholarship committee so graduating seniors can plan for their continuing education. Also, Daniel Fayette keeps up the website for the DCCF including the correct information on applying for grants and how to donate to the COVID 19 Disaster Relief Fund. That website can be found at https://dccfound.org/

Then there is public relations guru Alex Sefton who keeps things flowing by cutting checks for the RRG and by being the tech expert for Zoom video meetings, while Darin Miley continues checking in on regular grant applications and keeping the scenes moving behind the scenes. Last and most certainly not least is the ever-fun loving Sue Feaster who is waiting in the wings for any assignment Tami can give to her.

As a side bar, many moons ago, I hired Tami to be a stringer writer (this means part time with very little pay, if any) for the Greensburg Daily News. Knowing she lives near the Westport area, I asked Tami to be my southern connection to the community and provide good news happening in that area. Her column, Southern Comfort, was responsible for dramatically increasing our circulation numbers and subscriber base in the Westport area.

Tami also saved me one ice-covered day, when my boys and I made a Cheer Fund deliver near her home and could not get out of a steep driveway due to the ice. Of course, Tami had a small hand in coming to my rescue and it did not surprise me

Keep your eye on Tami Wenning and the Decatur County Community Foundation as they continue to review what works and what doesn’t, so they can be even better prepared for future events impacting our Decatur County community.

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EDCGDC responds to health crisis

Imagine sitting in the big chair at the Economic Development Corporation when your phone rings and you find out that a major corporation such as Honda Manufacturing is interested in land in your county, bringing 2,000 plus jobs to Southeastern Indiana. The work begins, and you suddenly find yourself in the spotlight of the biggest news story your county has seen in say - forever.

There are phone calls, incredible planning sessions, countless meetings, negotiations, media interviews, the ground-breaking, speeches, etc… Life is busy, but good. You feel pride because now you are bringing the recognition to your county that you worked hard for the entire world to know about. The fact that your community was finally being known as the place to be. More jobs and more opportunities will follow as you gear up for the economic expansion in the years to come. Hard work has paid off - finally.

Now imagine sitting in that same chair when the largest health crisis the world has ever seen hits your community and the rest of the world. Suddenly, your 2.3 percent jobless rate skyrockets to numbers not seen since – ever. Life as it is known comes to a virtual standstill. Factories and businesses are ordered closed. Goods are not being made or shipped. The economy is coming apart at the seams. Workers are laid off and executives at the factories and other businesses are scrambling for answers, advice and help.

Greensburg’s Bryan Robbins was not in that Executive Director chair when Honda announced it would build in Decatur County, however, he is in that big chair right now, facing the most stressful and difficult time I would image any of us have ever seen.

My shout out today goes to the Economic Development Corporation Greensburg Decatur County and its staff, Bryan Robbins and his rock star assistant Amy Cook Borns. Do not think for one minute that Bryan and Amy have slowed down just because there is a stay-at-home order and they are adhering to it like everyone else. No siree Bob. Absolutely not.

While I continue to applaud those local folks on the front line of this pandemic, let me tell you I know for a fact that the local EDC is not getting much sleep these days either. Bryan remains in constant contact with the local industrial base. Discussing their plans and seeing how his office can assist them. He has spent hours staying on top of the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program so he can help businesses the best he can. One must also realize that in the beginning, these programs and plans by our Federal Government seemed to change by the hour. In fact, there was and still are, many things that seem to change by the hour. It can be difficult to stay on top of it, especially when you have other responsibilities such as Bryan and Amy.

I know Bryan is in communication almost daily with the Decatur County Commissioners President Rick Nobbe, Mark Koors, and Jerome Buening, Greensburg Mayor Joshua Marsh, Decatur County Memorial Hospital CEO Rex McKinney, and many others. His cell phone doesn’t get much of a chance to cool down. His email is being blown up from local business leaders, to the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, Small Business Administration and most likely many more. Like those on the front line, his office did not take the weekend off.

Rest assured Greensburg and Decatur County, Bryan Robbins and Amy Borns are very aware of the pangs you as unemployed fellow citizens and your business leaders and owners are experiencing. They do not take it lightly. There is not much rest for that staff. And neither do the Board of Directors for the EDCGDC, giving Bryan full support. That shows confidence in the efforts of that office.

Our group remains in constant daily communication, many times a day, so I know what they are going through. Perhaps not as much as your unemployed family or ill family members, but that boulder on their shoulders is more like a mountain and they are preparing for better times ahead in our return to what will be the new normal as we make an economic come back. Stronger than ever.

Thanks, EDCGDC.
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United Fund exceeds goal

Decatur County United Fund set out to raise $330,000 for thre 2012 campaign. During Tuesday's annual meeting it was announced that funds raised did not stop there --- the total announced was $432,746 by UF Executive Director Joane Cunningham and Campaign Co-Chair Lizette Bell. Greg and Lizette served as co-chairs for the campaign.

GDN provides info on braving cold

With snow flurries and freezing temperatures eminent, the Decatur County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) offered some safety advice to brave the cold earlier this week.
EMA director Rob Duckworth, implores residents to exercise caution and common sense when using alternate heating sources such as space heaters.
- Space heaters should be kept at least three feet from flammable materials such as draperies, blankets, clothing and bedding.
- Never plug a space heater into an extension cord or surge protector.
- Turn off space heaters when abandoning a room for an extended time.
- The correct grade of fuel should be used for liquid-powered space heaters, and never use gasoline.
Caution should be used when choosing wood and burning material for fireplaces.
- Be sure that firewood does not have creosote, an oily, easily flammable deposit that is the cause for most chimney fires, and the largest share of home heating fires.
- Artificial logs should not be used in wood stoves.
- Do no use flammable liquids to start a fire, only use paper or kindling wood.
- Fireplaces should have a sturdy screen to prevent sparks.
- Ash should be allowed to cool before being deposited into a metal container.
- Fuel-burning equipment should be allowed to vent clearly and unobstructed to the outside.
GetPrepared.IN.gov, where Duckworth took his information, also offers advice on how to drive safely in the winter weather and what to do in the event of wrecking and becoming stranded.
The first bit of advice before driving in winter weather, is always make sure your car is in order. Check your vehicle’s wheels, engine, antifreeze, windshield wipers and blades and brakes.
- Carry extra supplies such as blankets, and spare clothes such as mittens, boots and hats.
- Carry nonperishable food and drinks such as water, granola bars, nuts or crackers.
- Bring a car cellphone charger.
- Have a tire repair kit and pump.
- Don’t pour hot water over frozen locks, the water will refreeze.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full, and fill the tank before parking for lengthy periods. Having gasoline in the tank will prevent the fuel line from freezing.
- Always be aware of driving conditions before leaving home.
- Do not leave the house if there are severe weather warnings in place.
- In the event of a power outage, try to keep cash on your person, as ATMs will likely not work.
- In the event of wrecking in a deserted area, remain calm, and remain in your vehicle while waiting for rescuers.
- Tie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna of your car so rescuers may see you.
- Run the heat in your car once an hour for 10 minutes. An idling car uses about one gallon of gas per hour.
- Never eat snow for hydration. The snow will make your body temperature lower.
- Move around to keep your blood circulating.
- If you are stranded in your car, do not leave your car unless help is immediate.
Humans aren’t the only critters who need help fending off the cold.
Additionally, Laura Johnston, manager of the Greensburg/Decatur County Animal Shelter, offered some advice on how to care for animals kept outside.
- Make sure dog houses or shelters are facing east or south. The cold winds normally come from the north and west.
- Do not use cotton blankets for outdoor shelters. Cotton is extremely cold when wet. Instead, use straw, but make sure the straw doesn’t get moldy.
- Outdoor animals need water more than ever in the dry, cold weather. Make sure the water is fresh daily, and isn’t frozen.
- Outdoor animals need extra food for the winter to help keep warm with extra padding.
Johnston added that if anyone is need of straw, people can come to the animal shelter to obtain some. The animal shelter can be contacted at 812-663-9081, and is located at 1635 West Park Road.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has also given some advice for protecting pets.
- Keep your dogs on leashes. If the dog gets loose, they can lose their sense of smell in the cold weather more easily than any other season, and become lost.
- Never shave your animals during the winter, they need their full coat more than ever.
The EMA also provided an explanation of all the jargon used when describing weather advisories:
Winter Storm Advisory - Cold, ice and heavy snow are expected.
Winter Storm Watch - Heavy snow and ice are very possible over the next couple of days, so finalize preparations and listen to a weather radio or forecasts.
Winter Storm Warning - Severe winter weather is in the area. Heavy snow and/or ice will begin soon.
Blizzard - Strong winds over 35 miles per hour that reduces visibility.
Sleet - Rain that falls and turns into ice before it hits the ground.
Freezing Rain - Rain that falls and turns to ice once it hits a surface.

Running a second test

This is a second test before relaunch.

If successful, relaunch will not be far behind.

Test

This is a test. Test only.

MainSource Bank finds downtown Indy location

From Indianapolis Star: A high-profile Downtown location, once filled by Borders bookstore, will soon be home to MainSource Bank. This former Borders building has sat vacant for more than a year. Photo by The Indianapolis Star The Greensburg-based bank will fill 9,500-square-feet on two floors of the building at 11 S. Meridian St., which is 22,000 square feet. The remaining space has yet to be leased, but MainSource’s Chris Harrison says he would like to see his bank grow fast enough that it could eventually fill the entire space. “This is a prominent site for us because it’s on one of the busiest corners in both foot traffic and car traffic in the city of Indianapolis,” said Harrison, senior vice president of branch admininstration. The full-service bank, which will open in the fall, will provide an array of offerings, including commercial, wealth management, mortgage and a retail branch. Borders closed its doors on that location more than a year ago, and since has gone out of business shuttering all stores nationwide. The Downtown building has been a tough space to fill because it’s large and on two levels. “It’s a little bit of a funky layout,” said Eric Hillenbrand, a local commercial real estate broker. But for a bank? It’s a perfect location, he said. “It’s prominent and would be just great for a bank,” he said.

THE RECOVERY BASH A CELEBRATION OF HOLTON, IN

HOLTON COMMUNITY PARK- HOLTON, IN.: - Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 11th ! The Napoleon State Bank is teaming up with the Holton community to coordinate “The Recovery Bash…A Celebration of Holton.” The celebration will be held in the Holton Community Park. The money raised from the event will be given to assist the Holton Community in its rebuilding efforts from the March 2nd tornado. The day will be filled with a free music concert coordinated by Keith Swinney beginning at Noon and ending late in the evening. There will be great bands like The Keith Swinney Band, 650 North, DV8, Hot Wired, Over the Edge, Centerline, and more. There will be solo performances by Clint Jivoin, Micah McFarland, Lora Parks, Michael I. Tetrick Jr., and more. The music celebration will tailor to Genre from Country Gospel, Country, to Rock. It will be a time to visit with neighbors, meet new friends, and give back to the community. Come enjoy great food, fantastic music, and much more! Mark Comer, Executive Vice President of The Napoleon State Bank, said, “We are proud to have been a part of the Holton Community for the last 50 years. Sponsoring this event is a great opportunity to help the community continue their recovery efforts and plan for the future. Please plan on attending as we will have something for everyone.” You can follow event details on www.napoleonstatebank.com under the “news” section. An account is open at the bank for those wanting to make a monetary donation (mail to: The Napoleon State Bank Attn: Holton Recovery Account P.O. Box 9 Napoleon, IN 47034). Any Company or individual wishing to be a sponsor or donate items can contact Christy Sutton, event coordinator, at 812.852.4002 ext 230, or csutton@napoleonstatebank.com, or 812.756.1535.

26th Annual Summer Day of Golf

All Chamber members and their guests are invited to participate in this fun event. This is a MAJOR fundraiser to support the efforts and programs of your Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce.

The format for the day will be a Captain's Choice Scramble. Form your team or we will match you with a team.

Your registration fee includes green fees, cart fees, a mulligan, 1 string per team, lunch, 2 beverage tickets and a registration gift.

Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place.

We will also have a putting contest, Beat the Pro contest, the driving range will be open prior to the start of the day, closest to the pin, longest drive and several opportunities to win big prizes with our Hole-in-One contests.

Mark your calendar for this fun event. More information, includiing sponsorship opportunities, will be released soon.

Call 812-663-2832 or email info@greensburgchamber.com for more information.

Women in Business Conference July 29

The business meal has taken on all forms from succinct breakfast meetings and power lunches to leisurely dinners and cocktail parties.

The purpose of a business meal is always the same…to develop a relationship with your client or potential employer. Consequently, our skill set as a business professional must be expanded so that we are comfortable in all dining environments.

A strong comfort level allows us to fully focus on the business at hand rather than worry about, "Where should I sit?" or "Should I order first?" or "What should I do if my client orders liquor?"

When we execute a business meal with style, savvy and sophistication, we create a strong business presence and are much more likely to be remembered favorably among our clients and colleagues.

To give yourself a competitive edge, join Corporate Image Coach, Starla West, as she discusses how to navigate a business meal with grace and sophistication.

Starla West will be the keynote luncheon speaker at the fourth annual Women in Business Conference, scheduled for Friday, July 29, 2011 at the Greensburg Elementary School.

The Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner with Chambers of Commerce from Batesville, Ripley County and Brookville/Franklin County for this annual event.

Indiana Downs will be providing the lunchtime meal along with Starla West who will show you proper techniques for navigating your way around a business meal.

Many break-out sessions are planned throughout this day-long event. Watch for more information in the near future.
Our Mission is to: Build a Positive Business Environment by providing Strategic Leadership, Advocacy, and Resources for Our Members.

The Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce takes pride in supporting our membership. We serve a growing, enthusiastic group of members interested in networking, information, growth and providing services to meet the needs of our wonderful community.

We encourage you to use this site as a means to find the services, businesses or information about Greensburg and Decatur County that interests you. And by all means, if you can’t find what you are looking for or if you need additional information, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 812-663-2832. You may also email your questions to: info@greensburgchamber.com.

The Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce is a valuable resource in meeting the needs of businesses including those entrepreneurs considering starting a business. We can help.

Please check back often for community events and updates.

We look forward to making your experience a remarkable one. After all – Greensburg and Decatur County Indiana and the local Chamber of Commerce is Open for Business.

Decatur County Safety Council meets at Honda

The Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce Safety Council were guest of Honda Manufacturing of Indiana today. Honda presented the program about efforts to "go green" at the Greensburg facility. Pictured is Jennifer Andrick making the presentation to those in attendance. The Chamber appreciates the efforts of Honda and its support to the community and environment.

Marketing Mixer helps business owners

The Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce Marketing Mixer held today at the Greensburg Public Library assisted business owners with developing flyers for their business. Pictured are a few of the attendees. Special thanks to Angela Phebus, Donna Booth, Mark Chester and Sarah Storm for their assistance.

Tickets on sale now for "Future in Farming" Ag Conference - March 4

The Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce 2011 Southeastern Indiana Ag Conference, “The Future in Farming,” will be held on Friday, March 4, at Wolf Theatres in Greensburg.

Tickets are $20 and available at MainSource Bank, including locations in Greensburg, Westport, Batesville, Brookville, Shelbyville and Rushville; Smith Implements , 3871 W. SR 46, Greensburg; Obermeyer AgriGroup, 4814 W. Old St. Rd. 46, Greensburg and the Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce, 125 N. Broadway St., Greensburg.

The event will feature United State Department of Agriculture Foreign Agricultural Service Economist Oliver Flake, Indiana State Agriculture Director Joe Kelsay, Indiana State Veterinarian Dr. Bret Marsh and others.

Keynote speaker, Oliver Flake, is with the United State Department of Agriculture, and is the Foreign Agricultural Services Economist, overseeing and promoting U.S. products and serving as an International Grain Market analyst. Flake obtained his undergraduate degree in Agronomy from Brigham Young University and his graduate degree from the Morrison School of Agribusiness and Resource Management at Arizona State University.

The M.S. in Agribusiness provided Flake with the curriculum he sought in international trade, agricultural policy and agricultural development. Besides serving as a grain market analyst, Flake also devotes his time to gaining international market access for U.S. products.

Flake’s presentation will include time for questions from the audience.

Joe Kelsay, is a sixth generation dairy and crop farmer and is the Indiana Agriculture Director for the Indiana State Department of Agriculture. In this role, he serves as the state’s top agriculture official and is an advisor to Governor Mitch Daniels on agriculture policy. He was appointed to this position Oct. 5, 2009 by Lt. Gov. Becky Skillman, Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Kelsay is a 1999 graduate of Purdue University and in addition to milk production, he and his wife Amy operates a farm tour business, Kelsay Farms Tours, LLC, which teaches thousands of children and their families each year about life on the farm, the nutritional value of dairy products, where milk comes from, technology used in a milking parlor and how farmers keep cows comfortable and healthy.

Sara Beth Aubrey is the owner of Prosperity Ag Communication and Prosperity Ag & Energy Resources. She focuses on securing funds for clients through the use of government programs such as grants, loan guarantees, direct loans and tax credits. Since 2007, Aubrey has written over 400 successful grants dispersed among clients in 29 states, funding for these awards has yielded nearly $50 million. The majority of her clients are pursuing projects to create or expand ventures on farms, in rural small businesses, and in both small and large communities all wishing to utilize or develop renewable energy or energy technologies.

Aubrey is a lifelong farm resident and has served as Madison County Woman leader for Indiana Farm Bureau and she devotes her time to raising beef cattle along with her husband, Cary, in Morgan County, Indiana.

Dr. Bret Marsh, DVM , Indiana State Veterinarian, was appointed by then Gov. Evan Bayh in 1994. As the state veterinarian, Dr. Marsh is responsible for a staff of 140 people, including 15 veterinarians and an agency budget exceeding $8 million. He is a 1984 graduate of Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine.

Other speakers that will be presenting during break-out sessions include Mike Dunn of Indiana Department of Environmental Management; Don Biehle, Southeast Purdue Ag Center speaking about farm safety; Tom Reddish from John Deere speaking on the Future of Farm equipment and technology; Andrew Stewart speaking about credit, leasing and financial aspects in farming.

For more information call 812-663-2832 or on the web at www.greensburgchamber.com

Diane Moore Named Executive Director at New Directions

The board of directors of New Directions of Decatur County, Inc. is pleased to announce that Diane Moore has joined our staff as our new Executive Director.

Board president, Debbie Robbins stated, “Diane brings a wealth of knowledge and community interaction to our organization. A long-time resident of Decatur County, she has over a dozen years’ experience working with non-profits including several years as the Executive Director of the Arts & Cultural Council of Decatur County and has been active as a volunteer with many philanthropic groups.”

“I am thrilled to have been selected for this position,” says Moore. “I hope to use my energy and experience to facilitate the positive growth of the organization and to assist local women and their families as they cope with the harsh realities of domestic violence.”

New Directions has been providing shelter, counseling and related services to residents of Decatur County for over ten years.

“This year is starting off fantastic! We are also proud to announce the implementation of a new dating violence education program in our schools and the appointment of Jackie Elliott as our new Volunteer Coordinator. There are so very many exciting and positive changes happening in our organization,” notes Robbins.

“Our town has always prided itself on ‘taking care of our own’ and New Directions plays a key role in this tradition. Domestic violence is a terrifying ordeal, and it is vital that the women and children involved in these situations be able to stay right here in our local shelter near their support systems, work and schools. We strongly believe it is especially important for children to stay in their own schools during this traumatic experience.”

Moore and Robbins hope the community will join their efforts and support New Directions as they continue to grow and offer even more services and educational programs.

Local groups, service organizations and businesses are invited to contact them for information or to schedule a program for your employees or members. “I look forward to getting out into my community to work as an advocate for New Directions and as an educator on the many topics related to domestic violence.”

For more information or for assistance with personal domestic violence, please call 812-662-8822. The phone number is answered 24 hrs. a day, 7 days a week.

Please direct any questions regarding this news release to: Diane Moore, Executive Director, New Directions, 108 S Broadway, Suite 2, Greensburg, IN 47240, Phone: 812-662-8822

DCMH Names New CEO

New Executive leadership will soon guide Decatur County Memorial Hospital (DCMH.) Following an extensive search, an announcement was made today by the DCMH Board of Trustees of the hiring of the new Hospital CEO. Linda V. Simmons has been selected to fill the position that will be opened by the retirement of current CEO, William Alloy. Alloy had made his retirement announcement in the fall of last year.

Simmons has most recently served as the Interim Chief Executive Officer at the Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County (MHSC) in Rock Springs, Wyoming. In that position she focused on areas of medical staff development/relations, financial operations, operational/clinical program development, hospital board relations and community involvement among others. Prior to the interim position she had served as the Chief Operating Officer there from 2006 to 2010. MHSC is a 99-bed, Joint Commission accredited, full service, rural, general acute care county-owned hospital.

She had also served as CEO at the Kindred Hospital Walnut Hill in Dallas, Texas, and Chief Operating Officer at the Kindred Hospital-Arlington in Arlington, Texas. In addition, Simmons has years of related healthcare education and experience.

Simmons’ accomplishments in her career include serving as Director of Critical Care Services, Clinical Manager of the ICU/Dialysis/Telemetry Services and working as an ICU Staff/Charge Nurse. Her Educational attainments include a Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Administration from the University of Mary, Bismarck, ND, and a Master of Science in Nursing, with a Healthcare Administration focus, from Baylor University. She also possesses a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Messiah College.

Professionally, Simmons has been affiliated with the Fellow of American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE), appointed by the Governor of Wyoming to the Wyoming Workforce Taskforce Council, served on the Board of the ATI School of Respiratory Sciences, a United Way Loaned Executive, and a Stevie Award Finalist for a Woman Executive of a Not-for-Profit organization.

“Our Hospital, Medical Staff, Employees, and Community are fortunate to have attracted a CEO of Linda’s caliber,” commented Toni Collins, Chair of the DCMH Board of Trustees. “Her unique blend of clinical, organizational and operational experience is certain to serve our facility and its patients well.” Collins also expressed her thanks to the search committee, many physicians, board members, staff and community leaders who assisted in the search process.

Simmons, and her husband Charlie, have five grown children and enjoy the outdoors and collecting antiques. She is expected to begin her duties at the Hospital in early April.

Decatur County Memorial Hospital was opened in 1922 and serves the community with a broad range of inpatient and outpatient services including 24/7 emergency services. It has a mission of advancing the health and wellness of the community by providing quality care, leadership and education. More information on the facility and its offerings may be obtained at www.dcmh.net.

Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber has an APP for that

The Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce another benefit exclusive to business members.

Following several months of negotiations, the Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce has announced it has reached an agreement with MyChamberApp to provide the first Decatur County area exclusive smartphone application.

“This is one of the coolest business promotion tools out there,” Executive Director Jeff Emsweller said. “This takes our business directory, provides maps, Web-site links and phone numbers of all of our chamber members and places it in anyone’s hand – anywhere you go.”

The local Chamber of Commerce rolled out the new “MyChamberApp” software Monday, allowing smartphone users to better locate all Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber members while on the go. “How many times have you wanted to call a business while on the go? “ Emsweller said. “Perhaps you are sitting at a ball game and you would like to order some food for pick up. Call up our chamber app and if the business is a chamber member, you will have instant access to it and can call by simply pressing on the business phone number displayed. Some members will also have their entire website available through this new service. If you are looking to see if a business has a certain item or sales, you can do that as well.”

Two types of users were kept in mind when the app was in the building stages – locals and visitors. Those unfamiliar with Greensburg and Decatur County have a built-in GPS system on their side to help better navigate towards a business of choice. “Visitors who have this app will be able to find out lots of things, including where to shop, eat, play or stay,” Emsweller said. “Maybe a visitor is in town and they want to find out if this city has a certain banking center they can access. With this app, if the financial institution is a member of the Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce, they would be able to not only find their street address, they can get GPS directions from their location, and could place a direct call to them if they so desired.

“Apps have quickly become the new way to gather information and communicate,” Emsweller continued. “Now there is an app for that in Greensburg and Decatur County, Indiana. This is just one more way to draw attention to this area and provide added value to our supporting Chamber members.”

The Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce will also be updating a calendar available through MyChamberApp. The calendar will list many of the Chamber’s activities and events as well as those of its members.

The listings available on the app are for those chamber members who have been in good standing throughout 2010, even though some businesses have closed or relocated. Members, including new members, will receive updated listings in 2011.

“This is a work in progress, and we have reached a great stage with this rollout,” Emsweller said. “We will continue to tweak this application and all it does. But it is very exciting to get to this point.”

For more information about the Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce, its efforts, services and membership, visit www.greensburgchamber.com or call Jeff Emsweller, executive director or Melissa Bruns, executive assistant at 812-663-2832.

Chamber offers incentive for shopping its members this holiday season

The Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce and ETC wants you to have a chance for a little extra cash in your pocket this Holiday season and by supporting Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce members, you could be a winner.

The rules are simple:
1. Between Friday, Dec. 3 and 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 17 make a purchase at any Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce supporting member or merchant. A complete list is available at www.greensburgchamber.com or feel free to ask merchants if they are Greenburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce members.
2. Bring your receipt to the Chamber office, 125 N. Broadway St., Greensburg, IN before 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 17, 2010.
3. The Chamber of Commerce will verify your store receipt is from a valid Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce business member.
4. Your name will be written on the back of the receipt and the receipt will be put into a hopper.
5. On Dec. 17, at 3:30 p.m., officials from the Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce will draw six (6) winners to receive cash prizes.
6. Cash prizes will be distributed as follows:
a .1 - $25 cash prize
b. 1 - $25 cash prize
c. 1 - $25 cash prize
d. 1 - $25 cash prize
e. 1 - $100 Visa Gift Card from ETC
f. 1 - $100 cash prize from Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce

Purchase must be made at any Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce business members between Friday, Dec. 3, 2010 and 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 17, 2010.

Receipts must be dated between Dec. 3, 2010 – Dec. 17, 2010.

One receipt per entry.

You may enter more than once with additional receipts from members of the Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce.

Receipts must be turned in at the Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce office, 125 N. Broadway St., Greensburg.

Receipt must include your name and phone number on the back. Only one receipt per store, per day will be accepted.

Minimum purchase of $5 at a supporting Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce member business.

You do not need to be present in order to win. Winners will be notified by phone call from Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce officials.

You may win only one (1) cash prize from this promotion.

Employees of the Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce and their immediate families are not eligible for prizes.

Visit www.greensburgchamber.com for a full listing of Chamber member.

Blasdels, Hatton win Community Service Award from Chamber of Commerce

Bill and Jackie Blasdel owners of Blasdel Enterprises and Jay Hatton, former President and current board member of the Decatur County Community Foundation and local agricultural leader, were honored with the county’s highest award Thursday evening, the Community Service Award presented at the Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce annual meeting.

The meeting was held on Veteran’s Day at A2Z Occasions in Greensburg, where Veterans were also honored during the evening and Col. Barry Richmond of the Indiana National Guard concluded the night with a captivating presentation honoring those who have served the country.

For their efforts as community volunteer leaders, Bill and Jackie Blasdel were extremely surprised when the announcement was made by nominator David Fry of the Decatur County Memorial Hospital Foundation.

“Bill and Jackie are consummate volunteers who have not just served the community but have immersed themselves in it, sharing their time and talents in numerous ways” Fry said. “They have given selflessly to countless efforts, with joy and even a bit of levity, all of which is rooted in contagious compassion that inspires and supports those around them. Such consistent, inspirational effort across a broad spectrum of causes is certainly worthy of being honored with the Community Service Award.”

Together, the Blasdel’s have given back to the community by leading and assisting various organizations including the Greensburg Wesleyan Church, Greensburg United Methodist Church, Greensburg Kiwanis Club, Tree County Players and Singers, American Cancer Society, American Lung Association, Greensburg Chamber of Commerce, New Directions, Decatur County Park Board, Girl Scout Tulip Trace Council, Psi Iota Xi Sorority, Decatur County Republican Party, Decatur County YMCA, Decatur County Schools Scholarship committee to name a few. Bill Blasdel has been honored as a Sagamore of the Wabash presented by Gov. Robert Orr, and Jackie has been honored with the Distinguished Hoosier Award presented by Gov. Mitch Daniels.

The couple accepted their award and then Bill lead those in attendance in a rousing version of God Bless America as requested by members of the audience.

The second recipient honored with the Community Service Award was Jay Hatton.

“Our community is very lucky, because we have many people who deserve to be recognized for their service to the community. Jay Hatton is one of those people,” Sharon Hollowell of the Decatur County Community Foundation said. “His name should rise to the top not only because of the number of things he does, but more importantly the extent to which he does things. Jay never does anything half way.”

Hollowell, who nominated Hatton, told the story of the extreme lengths that Jay went to in order to help the Decatur County Community Foundation establish a program recognizing individuals who chose to work with the DCCF and make a planned gift. “As the plan developed, it was decided to create an entrance to the Decatur County Park that included a rock,” Hollowell said. “Jay spoke up, believing he could find an appropriate rock. His trek to find a rock turned into an adventure with him trekking through northern Decatur County, involving driving and walking through fields and streams of many farms. Jay was not thinking of a rock in the terms I was thinking – he was thinking of a boulder.”
Hollowell said that once Hatton located the appropriate size boulder, he handled the negotiations, and arranged for semi tractors and fork-lifts to move it to the Decatur County Park as its permanent home. “The Board of Directors had a vision, but as President, Jay made sure the project created a true legacy that will benefit our entire community.”

Hatton is an active member of St. Mary’s Church and is co-chair of the on-going capital campaign as well as being instrumental is other efforts of the church. He has also served on the Decatur County Fair Board and is a member of the Decatur County Area Plan Commission, volunteer for Hospice of Decatur County and South Central Indiana, volunteer for the Cheer Fund, 4-H and North Decatur FFA. He has been instrumental in raising awareness for the agricultural community of Decatur County.

“When Jay puts his name with a project, you know that it will be done well and will be something that will make the community proud,” Hollowell said. “It is that dedication to our community that is worthy of the Community Service Award.”

Also honored during the evening ceremonies was Bill Obermeyer of the Obermeyer Agri Group and Vinyl Solutions Unlimited as the Entrepreneur of the Year in Decatur County.

Sheila Kirchoff made the nomination and announcement. “Bill’s spirit and determination have opened up many opportunities for himself as well as many others including his employees,” she said. “The business grew from a small gas station hub to a 45,000 square foot building it is housed in today. It grew from five employees to 29 full time employees today and he has managed to keep all employees working despite having seen slow times in business. He does not lay off employees. Rather he finds things for them to do if it is slow. He is a very determined, hard working and honest employer.”

The final award of the evening was the Small Business Grant awarded to a local business under the following criteria: Business is located in Decatur County and is not owned by an out-of-town corporation; Business has been in operation at least 1 year; Business has less than 100 employees; Business is a member of the Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce.

The business owner must submit plans on how the money will be used to benefit growth and the selected business must complete its project and turn in appropriate receipts and documentation before the money is distributed.

The 2010 Small Business Grant recipient was Adamo’s Pizzeria and Italian Grill, located at 117 N. Broadway St., in downtown Greensburg. The money will be used for the purchase of a beverage cooler as well as development of adverting and marketing campaigns including the development of a website.

Also during the evening, the Chamber’s general membership voted on two new board members.

Dr. Dan Roach, Superintendent of Decatur County School Corporation will begin his first year of his first term in January, 2011.

Nick Obermeyer, Obermeyer Agri Group, will fill the remainder of a term which recently became vacated.

Jenni Hannah, First Vice President, presented Tom Hunter with a President’s and Board Member plaque for his service to the Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce.

Trunk or Treat

Trunk or Treat will be held on the Greensburg town square, Saturday, Oct. 30 from 3 p.m. – 8 p.m. It’s a free community event for families. Children are encouraged to come in costume and trick or treat at the trunks of decorated vehicles parked all around the square. There will also be a variety of games, crafts, face painting, a picture booth, free food, live music, and door prizes. This event is sponsored by local businesses and churches.