A blog about what is going on in the Whitewater Valley
Indiana Department of Transportation
On Indiana 101 between Contreras Pike and W 725 N (Liberty) a bridge is under repair. The bridge is closed until December 3, at about 11:59 p.m. EST.
Comment: From Brookville take Indiana 1 N to Connersville, turn right on Ind. 44 East to Liberty. From Liberty take Ind. 44 West to Connersville, turn left on Ind. 1 South to Brookville
MYRTLE A. FOREMAN
Myrtle A. Foreman, 93, of Connersville, passed away on Saturday, November 20, 2021. She was born on February 25, 1928, in Richmond, to Bertie O. Anthony and Ollie May Lloyd Anthony.
Myrtle married Garvin Foreman Sr. on February 23, 1945, in Connersville. They were able to spend 68 years together before he passed away January 22, 2013.
Myrtle worked at Admiral Corporation in Shelbyville for many years, the Rushville Furniture Factory and Stant.
Alongside with her husband, they worked an Elephant Ear Wagon at fairs and other events for many years.
Myrtle is survived by her children, Diane Lackey, Linda (Mike) Hudelson and Garvin Lee Foreman Jr. (companion, Jennifer Melton); a sister, Sharon (Mervin) Bostic; 12 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and 20 great great grandchildren.
Along with her parents and husband she was preceded in death by her brothers, James Anthony and David Anthony; sisters, Thelma Carter and Carolyn Cope.
Visitation for Myrtle will be held on Monday, November 29, 2021, from 12 pm until 2 pm at Urban Winkler Funeral Home, 513 W. 8th St. Connersville, Indiana 47331. The funeral service will begin at 2 pm with Pastor Larry Horn officiating. Burial will follow in Dale Cemetery.
To sign the online guestbook or to leave the family with a personal message visit www.urbanwinklerfuneralhome.com.
RANT NELSON ANDERSON
Rant Nelson Anderson, 58 of Laurel, passed away on Friday, November 19, 2021. He was born on July 13, 1963, in Connersville, to the late Silas Anderson and Mary Halcomb Anderson.
On December 21, 1984, he married Maria Troutman in Laurel.
Rant was a member of Blooming Grove Family Worship Center.
Rant worked at Visteon until they closed and then went to work at Bunge.
You could often find Rant working in the yard and mowing the grass. He also enjoyed tinkering with vehicles, taking afternoon drives through the country and most importantly spending time with his family.
Along with his loving wife of 37 years, he is survived by his daughter, Kaela (Gideon) Nobbe; three grandchildren, Michael, Luke and Ellie Nobbe; sisters, Loretta (Steve) Toole, Karen Barrett, Jeannie Brock, Pam (Charlie) Brown, Darlene Cotten, Margie (Tommy) Pebworth, Rose (Tony) Brown and Angie Anderson; and many nieces and nephews.
Rant was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Phyllis Clark; and his father and mother-in-law, Melvin and Berter Troutman.
Visitation for Rant will be held on Monday, November 29, 2021, from 11 am until 1 pm at Blooming Grove Family Worship Center, 15001 Stone Church Rd. Brookville, Indiana 47012. The funeral service will begin at 1 pm at the church with Pastor Tom Marshall officiating. Burial will follow in Laurel North Cemetery. Urban Winkler Funeral home is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements.
To sign the online guestbook or to leave the family a personal message visit www.urbanwinklerfuneralhome.com.
CRYSTAL LEIGH (HARLAN) GERBER
Crystal Leigh (Harlan) Gerber, 44, of Liberty, passed away on Friday, November 19, 2021. She was born on March 26, 1977, in Heber Springs, Arkansas, and is the daughter of Stephen Harlan and Rachelle “Shelly” Isaacs.
She graduated from high school in Bluffton, with the class of 1995.
On February 17, 1996, she married Ryan Gerber in Bright. They were blessed with two children.
After marrying Ryan, she worked for Richmond Baking Company for 14 years and later became a devoted mother and homemaker. Crystal loved music. She was an avid football and Cubs baseball fan and loved watching her children play sports.
Along with her parents and husband, Ryan, Crystal will be greatly missed by her children, Case and Carleigh Gerber; a sister, Amber Flowers; niece, Kaitlyn Flowers; nephews, Terry and Garret Flowers; Paternal Grandmother, Wanda Harlan; Father and Mother in law, Duane and Betsy Gerber; step-father, Dan Isaacs; as well as many friends and family in Arkansas.
She is preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Bonnie Miller.
Visitation for Crystal will begin at 3 pm on Sunday, November 28, 2021, at Higher Praise Worship Center, 812 Ziegler Rd. with a memorial service to follow.
Urban Winkler Liberty Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family with arrangements.
To sign the online guestbook or to leave the family with a personal message visit www.urbanwinklerfuneralhome.com.
Theological column by Adrienne Greene
Q:
Dear Pastor,
How is cancel-culture affecting your ministry?
A:
Thank you for thinking of me. And your question is just in time: after three-hundred and fifteen articles, every week, appearing in over one thousand newspapers and numerous e-news sites around the world (for six straight years), it is time for me to discontinue the “Ask Pastor Adrienne” column. The Lord has required my resignation in an effort to make more room for the ongoing creative work he has burdened my heart to accomplish. The column has been a labor of love; birthed out of extreme pain (like every baby) and nurtured, strengthened and grown into a spark of light, bearing Christ’s influence on the global stage.
Cancel-culture, the new word for the obliteration of our American right to the freedom of speech has affected me greatly, as my loyal readers would imagine. This sacred right to speak (or write) one’s mind in the United States was sealed into Congress during the summer of 1789. It is one of America’s most valuable assets, and it is now under fire with casualties piling up over every media outlet. In the last year, my column was erased from public view by over nine-hundred newspapers; their editors and publishers bowing to the thrones of censorship. Gate-keepers of the liberal Left or weenies of the milquetoast Right; both types worked in concert to silence my voice, my opinion and the teachings of the Bible. The recent article about the biblical cities of Sodom and Gomorrah proved to be the straw that broke the camel’s back at a newspaper in North Carolina, for example. “Your column is not right for our readers,” they quipped after three months of steady publishing. Huh. And you’ve canvassed your readership of five-thousand subscribers to discover this truth? Nope. Their response is the creed of media despots on full display: “We decide what you read, hear and know.” These are dangerous days in America.
To Gillian Kelk, my dear friend, supporter and first publisher: I owe it all to you. Your open door restored my confidence during the worst time of my life. Even (and often) when my perspectives railed against your own, still you remained faithful to publish this column. American-born editors were sometimes quick, harsh and brutal in their treatment of “the religious chick” who submitted the column to their mostly atheist, publishing-houses every week. But you, a brilliant gal from Manchester, England, stayed the course from beginning to end. I’ll never forget what you did for me.
It is my readers I’ll remember most when I close my eyes and count my blessings. All the letters, emails, cards, gifts and innumerable prayers that have strengthened me as they fueled my creative engine; my cries for heaven’s wisdom as I answered hard, spiritual questions as best I could. The kind, anonymous, lady in Indianapolis will go down in my history as the most encouraging person I’ve ever known (but never met.)
Appreciations aside, I’ve learned volumes of truths on this journey. The most difficult of the truths presented to me over the last six years are: 1) How little the Church at large understands our Bible. Naturally, that was the purpose of the column; to provide a venue of education and rapport. But the inquiries were often heart-breaking as I observed how spiritually uneducated we really are. And: 2) Some people truly believe that a woman in a pulpit is evil. My titles of “pastor” or “clergy” were often sneered at in hand-written letters of wicked intent or anonymous emails meant to attack and dismantle my ministry. And they were written by Christians. Even so, it was my enemies who assured me all through the journey that I was indeed doing something right.
Sweet readers, I will always be accessible via my website, email or old-fashioned postal service (addresses below.) Thank you for your support and love during this unique and important journey together. I am forever indebted.
Please send your inquiries to: info@adriennewgreene.com or write to her at P.O. Box 214, Harrison, OH 45030. For more information, bookings and resources, please visit www.askpastoradrienne.com or the “Ask Pastor Adrienne” YouTube channel for videos and insights.
MELVIN H. HERTEL
Melvin H. Hertel, age 83, of Brookville, died Tuesday, November 16, 2021, at his residence in Brookville.
Born July 15, 1938, in Brookville, he was one of four children born to the late Michael A. and Frona (Klemme) Hertel. On June 24, 1961, he was united in marriage to the former Claudia Smith, and she survives.
Melvin was retired having worked at Seagrams Distillery in Lawrenceburg for more than 41 years, in addition to farming in Franklin County all of his life.
He was a lifetime member of St. Thomas Lutheran Church in Brookville; the Franklin County Antique Machinery Club as well as the National Rifle Association. In his leisure time, he enjoyed gardening, playing cards, mushroom hunting, visiting with friends at the Franklin County Senior Citizens Center, listening to Blugrass Music, and cherished time spent with his family.
Besides Claudia, his loving wife of more than 60 years, survivors include four children: Mike (Glenna) Hertel of Brookville, Mark (Gina) Hertel of Brookville, Matt (Jamie) Hertel of Batesville, and Melanie Hertel of Aurora; a son-in-law, John Monroe of Brookville; two sisters, Ellen Bauman of Penntown, and Shirley Hoff of Sunman; three grandchildren, Ben (Kristina Robinson) Cummins, Bethany (Luke Whalen) Monroe and Sarah (Toby Bonwell) Monroe; four step-grandchildren, John (Sally) Monroe, Brandy Monroe, Tim (Shelley) Metcalfe, Katraca (Jerry Eversole) Davidson; seven great-grandchildren, Cameron Metcalfe, Dylan Metcalfe, Emily Metcalfe, Jacksen Robinson, Jaxsyn Cummins, Kolbrie Cummins, Lilah Jean Cummins.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant brother, Lester Hertel; his daughter, Melinda G. Monroe who died November 4, 2010.
Family and friends may visit from 4 p.m. till 7 p.m. on Friday, November 19, 2021, at Phillips & Meyers Funeral Home, 1025 Franklin Avenue, Brookville.
Rev. Ladona Webb and Rob Cooley will officiate the Funeral Services at 11 a.m., Saturday, November 20, 2021, at Phillips & Meyers Funeral Home; burial will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery in Brookville.
Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Thomas Lutheran Church, Hospice of Margaret Mary or the Franklin County Antique Machinery Club.
The staff of Phillips & Meyers Funeral Home are honored to once again serve the Hertel family, to sign the online guest book or send personal condolences please visit www.phillipsandmeyers.com.
RAYMOND “RAY” ALBERT BUTT
Raymond “Ray” Albert Butt, 86, of Batesville, passed away peacefully at home Wednesday, November 17, 2021. The son of Raymond W. and Jennie A. (Follmer) Butt, was born June 7, 1935, in Napoleon.
Ray was devoted to his wife, Doris. They were married 63 years. Together, they enjoyed traveling to all 50 states and Europe. Ray enjoyed woodworking and coloring. He was an avid Indiana Pacers fan and liked watching NASCAR. Ray retired from Monsanto. He spent many summers working the fields at Butt’s Family Farm Produce.
Ray was an active member of the St. Paul United Methodist Church in Sunman where he served for many years as Financial Secretary, Trustee and Sunday School Superintendent. He also served on the St. Paul Cemetery Board.
While spending winters in Florida, Ray attended Floral City United Methodist Church. He was a volunteer maintaining the Withlacoochee Trail and enjoyed attending Bluegrass jams.
Ray is survived by his wife, Doris (Muntz) Butt; children, Jennie (Frank) Jones, Doug (Tina) Butt and Allison Butt; grandchildren, Rachel (Ryan) Metcalf, Jacob (Heather) Butt, and Aaron Butt; great grandchildren, Hunter Metcalf, Hailey Metcalf, and one on the way; brother-in-law, Delbert Abplanalp.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Dorothy Abplanalp.
The Butt family would like to extend sincere thanks to their wonderful loving caregivers and Margaret Mary Health Hospice.
On Saturday, November 27, 2021, visitation will be from 10-11 am followed by 11 am memorial service all at the St. Paul United Methodist Church, Sunman. The family requests memorials be made to St. Paul United Methodist Church by bringing to services or mailing to: Meyers Funeral Home, P.O. Box 202, Batesville, IN 47006.
DANIEL “SPOT” DOLL
Daniel “Spot” Doll, age 73, of Brookville, passed away Wednesday, November 17, 2021, at his residence. He was born November 19, 1947, in Batesville, a son to Francis and Martha Schantz Doll. After graduating from Batesville High School, Daniel joined the United States Marine Corps-where he proudly served his country. He served three years active duty and later reenlisted in Marine Corps Reserve Forces continuing to serve his country. Daniel retired from Indiana Department Natural Resources after working more than 30 years, once again, for his community and the public.
On May 18, 1974, Daniel married the love of his life Marilyn Pflum at St. Michaels. Daniel always enjoyed the outdoors and nature, taking pride in caring for his lawn, flowers, and gardens. His greatest pride and love will always be known as his family, especially his two granddaughters, which were his pride and joy. Daniel was a member of St. Michaels Catholic Church, Brookville American Legion, and Brookville VFW.
Dan is survived by his wife of 47 years, daughter Lisa (Mike) Sawyer of Brookville with his two granddaughters Ashlyn and Macey Sawyer. Two brothers; Jake (Marilyn) Doll of Noblesville and Clete (Shelly) Doll of Jacksonville, FL along with several nieces and nephews.
Daniel was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Lloyd Doll, and his father and mother in-law, Harold, and Kathryn Pflum.
Friends and family are invited to show their love for Daniel and support the family Tuesday November 23, 2021, from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. A Mass Christian Burial will take place Tuesday, November 23, 2021, 1 pm at St. Michaels Catholic Church with Father Vincent Lampert officiating. Burial will follow at St. Michaels Cemetery with military graveside rites by American Legion Post 77, VFW Post 2012, and a Contingent of Active Duty Marines. All memorial donations may be directed towards St. Michaels school, Masses or VFW Post 2014.
For more information, send condolences or sign the online guest book go to, www.cookrosenberger.com. The Staff of Cook Rosenberger Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Daniel “Spot” Doll
By John Estridge
Bonds to fund the purchase of the Brook Hill Golf Club and improvements, purchase of and remodeling of the Zimmer Building, $2.2 million in total, will go on sale Tuesday, Dec. 7, Pearl Harbor Day, according to a legal ad in this week’s Brookville newspaper.
Actually it is not $2.2 million that will go to all of the above but $1.94 million. The other $260,000 is just the cost for professionals – attorneys and accountants — related to the bond issue.
According to the legal ad, payments from Brookville taxpayers, present and future, will start out at $85,000 per year and increase to $120,000 per year by 2041.
Payments on the bonds will be done in semiannual payments starting out at $40,000 and $45,000 increments beginning with a $40,000 payment on July 15, 2022 and then ending with a $60,000 payment on July 15, 2041.
Bonds will apparently be sold even though there is a current Indiana State Police investigation concerning the purchase of the golf course by the town’s taxpayers. This is because there is an alleged conflict of interest by BTC President Curtis Ward and BTC Member Chuck Campbell, concerning the golf course purchase.
Campbell owns an empty lot adjacent to the golf course, but voted on the purchase anyway. On July 9, Ward bought nine parcels adjacent to the golf course and plans to put 96 condos on the relatively small space. He then prodded his fellow BTC members to purchase the golf course at the August 15 meeting, negotiating the purchase agreement between the LLC, which owned the golf course, and the town.
He then participated in every vote and signed every document related to the purchase.
BTC is aggressively working on annexation of the area around the golf course. Annexation is the only way Ward can get 96 condos on his nine parcels as they will need sanitary sewer and an increased water supply. Also, it increases the number of taxpayers’ property taxes from which the BTC can draw to pay its increasing debts. Most of the properties in Brookville proper have already hit the property tax cap limit. Those in the proposed annexation have not reached that limit; thus, those property owners can pay more in property taxes.
The town taxpayers just started paying for the new pool.
When the annexation is completed, the present and new Brookville taxpayers will have to pay for the sanitary sewer lines and pump stations as well as the increased size to the water lines. Also, there will be costs associated with increased street department service and police service to that area. Also, the town may have to increase the size of its sewage disposal plant to handle the new customers.
Ward has stated, in different venues, he would also like to purchase an ambulance and staff it as well as construct a bridge across the Whitewater River’s east fork at the Brookville Town Park and build a trail to the area of the Cobblestone Motel. That was priced at more than $3 million prior to the Pandemic and subsequent inflation.
BTC hired the firm of Bose McKinney and Evans to defend the town council in case “anything comes from the investigation.” The same law firm, Bose McKinney and Evans, is also bond counsel. Baker Tilly Municipal Counselors LLC is also involved in the bond sale.
On top of this, there is a public hearing for 7 p.m., Tuesday, November 30, for an additional appropriation of $1.87 million.
According to a separate legal ad in the Brookville paper this week, the $1.87 million is for:
“The foregoing appropriation is in addition to all appropriations provided for in the existing budget and tax levy, and a need for such appropriation exists by reason of the necessity of making certain local public improvements including, but not limited to, the acquisition, construction, improvement and equipping of a (1) golf course known as the Brook Hill Golf Club located at 11175 Fairway Lane, and all necessary and related improvements; and (2) commercial building for administrative and maintenance facilities for the Town, and all necessary and related improvements and the incidental expenses in connection with these projects.”
This public hearing is open to the public, and the public can make comments on the proposed additional appropriation at the hearing.
WILLIE FRANCIS
Willie Francis, 46, of Brookville, died Tuesday, November 16, 2021, at his brother’s residence.
Willie was born in Fort Thomas, Kentucky, on February 24, 1975, to Robert Lee and Helen Begley Francis. He had been employed in a meat plant. Willie always enjoyed fishing and spending time outdoors.
Willie is survived by a daughter: Taylor Bellau of Kentucky; and a brother Robert Francis of Brookville. Willie was preceded in death by his father and mother.
Cremation was chosen and there will be a Celebration of Life and burial in Kentucky at a later date.
To send condolences, memories, or to sign the online guest book go to, www.cookrosenberger.com. The Staff of Cook Rosenberger Funeral Home is honored to serve Willie’s family.