Wanda English Burnett, Editor

“We don't want to take away anything they (Health Department employees) have built up,” said Commissioner President Robert Reiners at the commissioner meeting held on Monday, February 25. This is in reference to the Health Department’s request that they be allowed to continue with the policy already in place. Although the commissioners agreed to allow current employees to follow the policy, every new employee hired in the Health Department will follow the county handbook.

Wanda English Burnett, Editor

Laughter might be the key to a long life. Even it it’s not, twin sisters, Eva Marie Mess and Neva Mae Hinners, who will celebrate their 90th birthday soon, say laughing is just good for you.

Eva, who now resides at St. Andrews Health Campus, Batesville, and Neva, who lives at Manderley Health Care Center, Osgood, were glad for the opportunity to get together as they shared memories with The Versailles Republican, just one week before their 90th celebration.

Economic development director ready for challenge

Wanda English Burnett, Editor

On the job just a week, newly hired Economic Development Executive Director Gary Norman has already made contacts, done research and has some future goals outlined. Knowing Ripley County is sitting on the threshold of a whole new economic landscape, Norman said, “What a wonderful opportunity for Ripley County.”

Wanda English Burnett, Editor

What is Ripley County Amateur Radio Club(RCARC)? That question was easily answered by Delbert Felix, Osgood, “It’s amateur radio at its best!” But, what is amateur radio? That is a little more complicated, but simplistic at the same time, according to John Reid, near Friendship, who is the president of the newly formed club. Amateur radio is a way to promote fellowship, according to Reid.

Cathy May, Contributing Writer

When Ripley County Council member Ed Armbrecht reported that an offer had been made to a new Economic Development Director at Tuesday night’s Ripley County Council meeting, Commissioner Bob Reiners didn’t keep it a secret that he was displeased with the decision the Economic Development Board had made.

44 year ministry still going strong
Rudds agree to another year at Cedar Creek Community Church

Wanda English Burnett, Editor

After preaching more than 4,500 different sermons over the span of 44 years at the Cedar Creek Community Church, one might think the pastor might be announcing his retirement. That is just the opposite of what the Reverent Garland Rudd is saying. “I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and go!” he enthusiastically told the Osgood Journal after his congregation voted to keep him and wife, Loredith, loving referred to as Sister Bea, another year.

Beth Ramsey, Staff Writer

“We aren’t asking for more money, just to keep the benefits we already have,” Pat Thomas, Ripley County Health Department, told the Ripley County Commissioners at the meeting held on Monday, February 11. According to Thomas, the current policy was established in 1967 and written according to Indiana Code at the time. In 1991, the county commissioners adopted a countywide policy, but the health department did not change their policy. By changing to the county policy now, there is the potential of long time health department employees losing some of their accumulated sick days and vacation days.

Beth Ramsey, Staff Writer

“We’re not trying to make people mad, we just want to have some place for our kids,” said Pangburn Park Board President Shawn Halcomb, at a special meeting held on Thursday, February 7. The meeting was held at the suggestion of Versailles Town Council president John Holzer to discuss the issues concerning the proposed sports complex. Holzer opened the meeting by giving each of the speakers ten minutes to present their information. Those in attendance would then be allowed to ask questions.

Your credit score could save you $$$

Beth Rumsey, Staff Writer

Bank interest rates are falling, and perhaps you are thinking about refinancing your mortgage loan. On almost every channel there are commercials about obtaining credit reports and knowing your credit score. But, what is a credit score? How would one obtain a credit report without applying for a loan? Why should I view my credit report regularly?

Wanda English Burnett, Editor

Norris and Joan Krall, Osgood, are dedicated to preserving history.

The couple has completed - on their own and collectively with others - several books that have been published and are available through the Ripley County Historical Society, Versailles, where they are both members. The latest project, is one they are excited about. This will be a publication to honor Ripley County WWII veterans.

Wanda English Burnett, Editor

This year the Laughery Valley Fish and Game club (LVF&G) celebrates its 30th year in existence. The group was founded in 1977 by Hap Chandler, Barry Pollock, Bob Kermeen, Bob Simmons, Jim Meyer, Cy Ryker and John Boykin.

Legislators, constituents brave weather

Wanda English Burnett, Editor

Local office holders, business leaders and property taxpayers gathered for an early morning opportunity to meet with state legislators Friday, February 1. Despite the icy weather that closed area schools, the breakfast meeting, sponsored by Southeastern Indiana REMC, went on as scheduled at the Southeastern Career Center in Versailles.