Jan./Feb. 2024 OUR BROWN COUNTY by Our Brown County

Jan./Feb.2024 FREE

The Cliffords Being a Volunteer

Firefighter

Rivers and Roads

tasty & healthy! Give your heart some love!

wild & tasty

TIP

Try substituting extra virgin olive oil in place of less healthy fats like butter, mayonnaise, margarine, and other cooking oils. Not only is it good to use for roasting, frying, or sautéing, but it’s also good as a butter substitute in baking. Extra virgin olive oil is rich in heart-healthy fats, vitamins E and K, and antioxidants which help fight inflammation and chronic disease.

We’ve been bringing great taste to you since 2012 from our inviting little shop in the heart of Brown County, Indiana.

We have curated a flavorful collection for your tasting pleasure with plenty to offer for foodies, the experienced cook, or the novice. It goes well beyond the high-quality olive oils and balsamics we built our reputation on. We’ve added jams, pastas, dipping oils, salsas, sauces, and much more. Come in for a tour of tastes and let us be your guide. You’ll be wild about our shop. Shop us online from anywhere, anytime at www.thewildolive.com

www.thewildolive.com | 37 W Main Street, Nashville, Indiana 47448 | (812) 988-9453

Village Green Building Celebrating over 100 years in nashville The Nashville you came to see and love…

Where you can see the work of local artists — whether it’s ice cream, candy and fruit preserves made the old fashioned way or the artwork of local artists and craftsmen. · first floor · Homemade Ice Cream Homemade Candies Homemade Fruit Preserves · second floor · Antiques · Art and Craft Galleries Working studios of local artists

V NA S H I L L E

INDIANA

The Candy Dish

Yes, we really do make it ourselves!

Fine Homemade Chocolate Candies and Fudge Gourmet Caramels Over 50 Flavors of Salt Water Taffy

812.988.0815

812.988.7606

Homemade Ice Cream

Harvest Preserve the

Homemade Fruit Butter Gourmet Food Cookbooks · Cookie Cutters Postcards · Greeting Cards Kitchen Gadgets Galore Giftware · Tea and Teaware

812.988.7606

Functional and Fine Art Made in Indiana

812.988.6675

61 West Main street · nashville, indiana

The countdown begins. MONDAY, APRIL 8, 2024 TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE Experience it here. Visit our website for details about what to expect, guest speakers, eclipse activities, viewing parties, and more!

Save the date.

BrownCounty.com/Eclipse

Brown County Visitors Center. 211 South Van Buren Street. Downtown Nashville.

135 Martinsville

Nineveh Edinburgh Morgantown 31 37 135 I-65 46 Bloomington Columbus 46 NASHVILLE Brownie’s Bean Blossom Family Restaruant

HELMSBURG

BEAN BLOSSOM

Helmsburg General Store Lightspinner Studio

135

Country Club Rd

NASHVILLE

Hard Truth Distillery Old S Snyder Rd. R 46

Kelp G rove R d.

TON

eXplore Brown County

Rd.

Harmony Tree Resorts Sycamore Saloon

Mike’s Music and Dance Barn

Abe Martin Lodge

ran ch

T.C. Steele State Historic Site

135

PIKES PEAK

STORY ELKINSVILLE

CHRISTIANSBURG

k Rd ton Cr

Christi

ansbu rg

ove r Gr

la Pop

STONE HEAD

Hamil

to BLO O

Recreation

Days of Old OA Antique Shoppe als o. K t n C l Re al to COLUMBUS Tire wn ry tion ue M Co. Bro ntiq n Vaca o. Wine NE wn A o r . B C O Co ’ Brow wn wn W B Away A Day Bro Bro Hills O GNA 19th Hole Mt RV Campground Marie’s Heartland Sports Bar . Li ber Home Tattoo Friends O’ Mine ty R Decor d Campground Bear Wallow Distillery

Brown County State Park

Monroe Reservoir

Craftsman

Annie Smith Rd.

Val le

Rd.

lley Rd.

Yellowwood Rd

Musical Entertainment Artist and/or Gallery

Brick Lodge

Green Va

Lodging/ Camping

Mike Nickels Log Homes

Amanda W. Mathis

BELMONT

Hoover Rd

Rd.

Oak Grove

Yellowwood State Forest

GATESVILLE

Sal tC ree

Ow l Cr eek

Doodles by Kara Barnard

Flower and Herb Barn Farmhouse Café

Dining

Helm

Dr. Lisa Baker, DDS Fireplace Center Bluestone Tree

Cordry Lake

Sprunica Rd.

Rd sburg

BLOOMINGTON

Sweetwater Lake

Vaught Rd.

Plum Creek Antiques

to MORGANTOWN

MINGT ON

The Apple Works

Rosey Bolte’s Uncommon Gourd Studio

Lights Over Bean Blossom Monroe Music Park & Campground

to BLO O

South Shore Dr.

Trafalgar

Clay Lick Rd

Lake Lemon

Franklin

252

NASHVILLE MAP ON PAGE 6

TRAFALGAR

MORGANTOWN

Antiques Co-op Art Beyond Crayons Green Hill Diner Grandpa Jeff’s Trail Rides

Upper Bean Blossom

Brown N County

Indianapolis

JEFFERSON STREET

HONEYSUCKLE LANE

OLD HICKORY LANE

Hoosier Artist Gallery

Fallen Leaf Books

Brown Co. Art Guild

Moonshine Leather

ST SR 135 N

Miller’s Ice Cream The Candy Dish The Harvest Preserve B3 Gallery

The Wild Olive

Brown Co. Winery

Head Over Heels

Wishful Thinking

Heritage Mall Heritage Candy Store

Log JJail L il

Holly Pots Stoneware

Woodlands Gallery

Too Cute Boutique & Hidden Getaway Naughty Dog Rivers Books & Roads

Abe’s Corner

Weed Patch Music Company

Pioneer Village Museum

MAIN STREET

Grasshopper Flats Spears Gallery Jewelers Juls Etc.

The Nashville House

Courthouse

Copperhead Creek Gem Mine

Iris Garden Cottages & Suites

Gold &Old

Redbud Ter.

Health For U

County Offices

Touch of Silver

LOCUST LANE

Village Green

Iris Garden

Brown Co Public Library

Brown Co. History Center

GOULD STREET Complex Brown Co. Rock & Fossil Shop

Heavenly Biscuit

MOUND STREET

Brown Co Community Stuff a Stocking Tickets Foundation

ROBERT “BUCK” STOGSDILL WAY

TO HELMSBURG - 6 MILES

Brozinni Pizzeria

Big Woods Pizza

MOLLY’S LANE Big Woods Village

Common Grounds Coffee Bar Too Cute Boutique

Colonial Bldg.

Men’s Toy Shop

J.B. Goods/ Life is Good

North House

TO BEAN BLOSSOM & MORGANTOWN

Doc Tilton House

Michael’s Flowers

Zieg LeDoux & Associates

Fairway Mortgage Corp.

Hotel Nashville

Fai to 4rgr H oun ds

IHA

Brown Co Art Gallery

Masonic Lodge

Old to H SR 4 6 ar Disd Trut tille h ry

RE/MAX Team

ARTIST DR

OLD SCHOOL WAY

VAN BUREN

The Salvation Army

Precise Books & Payroll

Brown Co Massage

Schwab’s Fudge

New Leaf Amy Greely

JEFFERSON STREET Nashville BP

Hoosier Buddy

Thrift Shop Community Closet

PAT REILLY DR

Calvin Place

Life is Good JB Goods The Toy Chest

VAN BUREN ST SR 135 N

SR 46 TO BLOOMINGTON - 16 MILES

Brown Co Bikes

The Totem Post

Jack & Jill Nut Shop

Brown Co Playhouse

58 South Apparel

PITTMAN HOUSE LANE

Franklin Square

HONEYSUCKLE LANE

FRANKLIN STREET

The Ferguson House Bistro & Bar

Brown Co Pottery

Clay Purl

Antique Alley

Old McDurbin Gold & Gifts Lolli’s House

Brown Co Model Trains

Artists Colony

Country Heritage Winery

Nashville Spice Co.

Bone Appetit Bakery

Brown County Inn

Brown Co Community YMCA

Bear Hardware

Brown County IGA

Craftsman

Brown Co Health & Living

Larry Sanchez • Misty Sanchez

Redbird Tattoo Brown County Eye Care Blue Elk Family Clinic

Rafters

Brown Co Music Center

Seasons Hotel & Event Center

Doodles by Kara Barnard

Salt Creek Park

Casa Del Sol

Nashville General Store & Bakery

Coachlight Square

WASHINGTON STREET

SR 46 TO COLUMBUS - 16 MILES

Visitors Center

Moondance Vacation Homes

Nashville Fudge Kitchen

Possum Trot Square

Lodging

Dining

Back to Back The Cheeky Owl Lakehouse Candle Co.

Artist and/or Gallery Rest Room

Theatre

Musical Entertainment

COUNTY MAP ON PAGE 5

map not to scale

Parking

Brown Co Craft Gallery

Cornerstone Inn

Nashville Indiana

Kith & Kindred House of Jerky Redhead Apothecary

Artists Colony Inn

Nashville Express

Rhonda Kay’s

Out of the Ordinary and Hickory Bar

OLD SCHOOL WAY

8 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

ADVERTISER

ANTIQUES

Bone Appetit Bakery........................ 13

Bonafide Bites Chef/Catering......... 60

Antiques Co-op................................. 48

Brown Co Antique Mall.................... 26

Brown Co IGA.................................... 53

Brown Co Antique Mall.................... 26

Brown Co Art Guild........................... 19

Brown Co Inn..................................... 14

Days of Old Antique Shoppe.......... 39

Brown Co Craft Gallery.................... 13

Brown Co Winery.............................. 25

Michael’s Flowers.............................. 20

Brown Co Model Trains.................... 12

Brownie’s Bean Blossom Rest......... 57

Plum Creek Antiques....................... 60

The Cheeky Owl................................ 26

Brozinni Pizzeria............................... 28

ART, ART SUPPLIES-INSTRUCTION

Clay Purl............................................. 25

The Candy Dish................................... 3

Antiques Co-op................................. 48

Days of Old Antique Shoppe.......... 39

Cedar Creek Winery.......................... 13

Art Beyond Crayons......................... 48

Head Over Heels............................... 19

Common Grounds Coffee Bar........ 12

B3 Gallery............................................. 3

Holly Pots Stoneware....................... 12

Country Heritage Winery................ 49

Bear Hardware.................................. 43

Hoosier Artist Gallery...................... 21

The Ferguson House Bistro & Bar.. 24

Brown Co Antique Mall.................... 26

Kith & Kindred Gifts......................... 25

Hard Truth Distilling Co................... 32

Brown Co Art Gallery....................... 20

Michael’s Flowers.............................. 20

The Harvest Preserve......................... 3

Brown Co Art Guild........................... 19

Moonshine Leather.......................... 20

Heavenly Biscuit............................... 33

Brown Co Craft Gallery.................... 13

Nashville Spice Co............................. 63

Helmsburg General Store............... 57

Hoosier Artist Gallery...................... 21

New Leaf............................................. 19

Heritage Candy Store....................... 56

Kith & Kindred Gifts......................... 25

Redbird Tattoo.................................. 59

Hoosier Buddy Liquors.................... 27

Redbird Tattoo.................................. 59

Rhonda Kay’s..................................... 28

Hotel Nashville.................................. 58

Rivers and Roads.............................. 20

Miller’s Ice Cream House................... 3

Spears Gallery................................... 24

Nashville BP....................................... 45

C. Steele Art....................................... 62

The Nashville House......................... 24

Uncommon Gourd-Rosey Bolte..... 20

The Totem Post.................................. 13

Nashville Fudge Kitchen.................. 64

BOOKS

The Toy Chest.................................... 26

Nashville Spice Co............................. 63

Fallen Leaf Books.............................. 13

Uncommon Gourd-Rosey Bolte..... 20

Out of the Ordinary & Hickory Bar.39

Naughty Dog Books......................... 38

Wishful Thinking............................... 26

Rafters................................................. 49

CLOTHING

Woodlands Gallery........................... 19

Schwab’s Fudge................................. 26

58 South Apparel.............................. 28

ENTERTAINMENT/MUSIC

Seasons Hotel & Event Center........ 15

Abe’s Corner - Too Cute Boutique.. 39

Brown Co Inn..................................... 14

The Wild Olive..................................... 2

The Cheeky Owl................................ 26

Brown Co Music Center................... 38

FURNITURE

Community Closet Thrift Shop....... 31

Brown Co Playhouse........................ 44

Antiques Co-op................................. 48

Head Over Heels............................... 19

Country Heritage Winery................ 49

Brown Co Antique Mall.................... 26

J.B. Goods/ Life is Good................... 33

Hard Truth Distilling Co................... 32

Days of Old Antique Shoppe.......... 39

Redbird Tattoo.................................. 59

The Nashville House......................... 24

Plum Creek Antiques....................... 60

CRAFTS, POTTERY, GIFTS

FOOD & BEVERAGE

HARDWARE

Antiques Co-op................................. 48

Abe Martin Lodge............................. 53

Bear Hardware.................................. 43

B3 Gallery............................................. 3

Artists Colony Inn............................. 25

HATS

DIRECTORY

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 9

The Cheeky Owl................................ 26

PHOTOS

Rainwater Studios............................ 62

Head Over Heels............................... 19

B3 Gallery............................................. 3

Rambling Dog Design - SIGNS....... 62

Moonshine Leather.......................... 20

Hoosier Artist Gallery...................... 21

Redbird Tattoo.................................. 59

JEWELRY

Spears Gallery................................... 24

Zieg LeDoux & Assoc........................ 60

B3 Gallery............................................. 3

REAL ESTATE

SHOES

Brown Co Antique Mall.................... 26

Bear Real Estate - Scroggins Team.20

Head Over Heels............................... 19

Brown Co Craft Gallery.................... 13

Brown Co Real Estate....................... 44

Moonshine Leather.......................... 20

The Cheeky Owl................................ 26

RE/MAX Team.................................... 62

The Totem Post.................................. 13

Grasshopper Flats Jewelers............ 24

RECREATION

SPECIALTY SHOPS

Hoosier Artist Gallery...................... 21

Grandpa Jeff’s Trail Rides................ 48

Bone Appetit Bakery........................ 13

Juls Etc................................................ 31

SERVICES

Brown Co Model Trains.................... 12

Kith & Kindred Gifts......................... 33

Amish Roofers................................... 29

Clay Purl............................................. 25

New Leaf............................................. 19

Dr. Lisa Baker, DDS........................... 28

Fallen Leaf Books.............................. 13

Old McDurbin Gold & Gifts............. 12

Kara Barnard Lessons....................... 47

Fireplace Center................................ 57

Rhonda Kay’s..................................... 28

Bear Hardware’s Bagged Trash....... 60

Head Over Heels............................... 19

Spears Gallery................................... 24

Blitz Builders...................................... 45

Health For U....................................... 61

The Totem Post.................................. 13

Blue Elk Family Clinic:.................61,62

Michael’s Flowers.............................. 20

Touch of Silver Gold & Old.............. 27

Bluestone Tree................................... 29

Moonshine Leather.......................... 20

LODGING/CAMPGROUNDS

Bonafide Bites Chef/Catering......... 60

Nashville Spice Co............................. 63

Abe Martin Lodge............................. 53

Brown Co Convention &

The Toy Chest.................................... 26

Abe’s Corner - Hidden Getaway..... 39

Visitors Bureau.................................... 4

Weed Patch Music Company.......... 19

Artists Colony Inn............................. 25

Brown Co Eye Care............................ 60

The Wild Olive..................................... 2

Away A Day RV Campground......... 39

Brown Co Health & Living............... 61

Wishful Thinking............................... 26

Brick Lodge........................................ 58

Brown Co K9...................................... 60

WEDDINGS

Brooks Run Cabin............................. 58

Brown Co Massage........................... 45

Abe Martin Lodge............................. 53

Brown Co Health & Living............... 61

Brown Co Tire & Auto....................... 60

Artists Colony Inn............................. 25

Brown Co Inn..................................... 14

Brown Co Community YMCA.......... 62

Brown Co Inn..................................... 14

Cornerstone Inn................................ 15

Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp

Hotel Nashville.................................. 58

Hills O’ Brown Vacation Rentals..... 33

Tracy J. Landis.................................. 56

OTHER

Hotel Nashville.................................. 58

Heartland Tattoo............................... 61

Amish Roofers................................... 29

Moondance Vacation Homes......... 45

IN Seamless Guttering..................... 61

Blitz Builders...................................... 45

North House...................................... 58

Loren Wood Builders........................ 43

Health For U....................................... 61

Seasons Hotel & Event Center........ 15

McGinley Insurance.......................... 69

Flower and Herb Barn...................... 61

PET PRODUCTS

Michael’s Flowers.............................. 20

Loren Wood Builders........................ 43

Bone Appetit Bakery........................ 13

Nashville BP....................................... 45

WFHB Radio....................................... 62

Bear Hardware.................................. 43

Precise Books & Payroll.................... 60

WFIU Radio........................................ 62

Contents 12 HISTORY MYSTERY 13 SUBSCRIBE 16 The Cliffords ~by Bob Gustin 22 Rivers and Roads ~by Chrissy Alspaugh 30 Musings: Souvenirs ~by Mark Blackwell 34-35 Photos by Lindsey Lewis* 36-37 CALENDAR 40 Being a Volunteer Firefighter ~by Boris Ladwig

Contributors Jeff Tryon is a former news editor of The Brown County Democrat, and a former regional reporter for The Republic. Born and raised in Brown County, he currently lives with his wife, Sue, in a log cabin on the edge of Brown County State Park. He is a Baptist minister.

Mark Blackwell no longer makes his home in Brown County where “the roadway is rough and the slopes are seamed with ravines” He now resides within sight of the sixth green of an undisclosed golf course. He was born in the middle of the last century and still spends considerable time there.

Joe Lee is an illustrator and writer. He is the author of Forgiveness: The Eva Kor Story, The History of Clowns for Beginners, and Dante for Beginners. He is an editorial cartoonist for the Bloomington Herald-Times, a graduate of Ringling Brothers, Barnum & Bailey Clown College, and a veteran circus performer.

Julia Pearson wrote for a Franciscan magazine for ten years and served as its human interest editor. She now resides in Lake Woebegone Country for life’s continuing adventures. Julia enjoys traveling and visiting museums of all types and sizes with her children and grandchildren.

Chrissy Alspaugh is a freelance writer and owner of Christina Alspaugh Photography. View her work at <ChristinaAlspaughPhotography. com>.She lives in Bartholomew County with her husband Matt and three boys.

46 Field Notes: Crows ~by Jim Eagleman 50 Nature Inspires Bridge Mural ~by Jeff Tryon 54 Brown County Recycles ~by Jeff Tryon 60-62 INFO PAGES

Cover: Derek and Sara Clifford ~by Bob Gustin

Jim Eagleman is a 40-year veteran naturalist with the IN DNR. In retirement, he is now a consultant. His program “Nature Ramblings” can be heard on WFHB radio, the Brown County Hour. He serves on the Sycamore Land Trust board. He enjoys reading, hiking, music, and birding. Jim and his wife Kay have lived here for more than 40 years.

OUR BROWN COUNTY

P.O. Box 157 Helmsburg, IN 47435 (812) 988-8807 ourbrown@bluemarble.net ourbrowncounty.com Also online at issuu.com/ourbrowncounty Facebook OUR BROWN COUNTY

Cindy Steele is the publisher and editor of this magazine. She sells and designs ads, sometimes writes, takes photos, and creates the layout. For fun, she likes to play the guitar or banjo and sing.

Boris Ladwig is a Columbusbased journalist who has worked in print, online and TV media in Indiana and Kentucky and has won awards for features, news, business, non-deadline news, First Amendment/community affairs and investigative reporting.

Bob Gustin worked as a reporter, photographer, managing editor, and editor for daily newspapers in Colorado, Nebraska, and Indiana before retiring in 2011. He and his wife, Chris, operate Homestead Weaving Studio. She does the weaving while he gives studio tours, builds small looms, and expands his book and record collections.

*Lindsey Lewis operates a cleaning company called Brown County Services. In her free time she helps the Brown County Cemetery Preservation Society set, restore, and clean headstones. She also enjoys woodworking, making inlay barn quilts, and stone carving. Her daughter graduated from BCHS in 2022, and her son is currently enrolled at the middle school.

Thanks, Mom, for making it happen!

10 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

Coloring Contest Win $30

Publisher’s choice. Send to this address by February 20.

OUR BROWN COUNTY P.O. Box 157 Helmsburg, IN 47435

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 11

WIN $30

Brown County Model Trains

History Mystery

FIRST to leave a message with the answer along with your name and phone number WINS!

812-988-8807

Trains: Electric, Wooden, and Christmas Indiana-Made Ornaments • Puzzles • Kid-Friendly

75 S. Jefferson St. • Antique Alley • 317-783-6726

Stoneware pottery handmade in Brown County, Indiana

812-398-8010 www.HollyPots.com

Main Street Shoppes (Old School Way) 59 E. Main St. Suite G. • Nashville

COMMON GROUNDS COFFEE BAR It’s like a coffee shop in a living room (with things to amuse you)

Hot, Cold & Frozen Drinks • Selection of Teas Froothies (our fruit smoothies) Famous for Cheesy Eggs & Toast • Pastries • Quiche 66 N. Van Buren, Nashville (Molly’s Lane behind the red door) Opens 8:00 am M-Sat; 9:00 am Sun (Closed Wed) 812-988-6449

In 1949 businessman Jack Rogers offered a piece of land along with some financing to his friend Professor Lee Norvell at Indiana University so he could start up an operation in Nashville. A barn on the property was rehabbed and then later a large tent was added to protect the public from the weather. What is the name of the establishment that continues today? The answer to last issue’s mystery was Trevlac.

12 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

Old McDurbin •Customized Anklets • Bracelets Gold & Necklaces Gifts 50% • Watches OFFLRY E JEW

Sterling Silver Rings 1000’s of Pendants

Blue building in Antique Alley S. Jefferson St. • Nashville, IN

created by hand

local artisans

E S T

Fine arts and crafts by local and area artists View their work on Facebook & Instagram

1 9 7 8

BROWN COUNTY

See something you want? Message us!

Open Daily 10 to 5 812.988.7058

You can have Our Brown County mailed to your postal address. A year’s subscription (six issues) is just $20, which covers postage, supplies, and processing time.

Makes a great gift.

One Year’s Subscription for $20 (six issues)

62 E. Washington · Nashville, IN · BrownCountyCraftGallery.com

The Totem Post ~Since 1952~

• Genuine Native American Jewelry • Zuni Fetishes • Sterling Silver Jewelry • Copper Jewelry 78 S. Van Buren St. • Minnetonka Moccasins Nashville , IN • Pendleton • Knives 812-988-2511 ~Open all year~ TheTotemPost.com

Name: N Address:

Mail with check or money order to:

38 Franklin St. E. | Nashville, IN | drinkatthecreek.com | Open Every Day

For Dogs

Unplug with a Good Book

• Premium, all-natural treats since 1997 • Over 20 varieties from low-fat to grain-free • Gourmet and seasonal snacks, too

Old, New, Used and Rare Books

BONE APPETIT BAKERY

Get a FREE Sampler bag of natural dog treats with $10 purchase and this ad.

Our Brown County P.O. Box 157 • Helmsburg, IN 47435

DOGS WELCOME! (812) 988-0305

Open 7 days 211 S. Van Buren St. (behind Visitor Center)

www.barkingood.com

Journals • Sketchbooks Handmade Greeting Cards Local Postcards 45 S. Jefferson St. • Nashville, IN 812.988.0202 • fallenleafbooks.com

Open 7 days a week 10 am to 5 pm

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 13

brown County Inn HOTEL, RESTAURANT & BAR

On the corner of 135 & 46 just 3 blocks of downtown with free parking

Serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 7 days a week

8am to 9pm Sunday to Thursday

8am to 10pm Friday & Saturday

www.browncountyinn.com

14 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

(812) 988-2291

Rest & Relax

Hotel & Event Center Across from the Brown County Music Center

New Restaurant, Bar, Patio

Balcony Rooms

including our Vacation Homes

Tudie’s Cottage, The Lodge, and Cabin 360 CORNERSTONEINN.COM Conference facility–up to 500 560 State Road 46 East, Nashville, IN 812-988-2284 • SeasonsLodge.com

812-988-0300 • 54 E. Franklin St. Downtown Nashville Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 15

The Cliffords ~by Bob Gustin

glance at the busy calendar in the kitchen of the Clifford home reveals a lot about the family: Sara and Derek Clifford have never been ones to watch from the sidelines. “We both have had lots of responsibilities and we’ve sometimes taken it to the extreme,” Derek said. “It’s a part of who we are,” Sara added. Sara spent 12 years as editor of the Brown County Democrat newspaper, from 2009 to 2021, when she resigned to accept a position as managing editor for the Indiana Journal of Earth Sciences through the Indiana Geological and Water Survey at Indiana University in Bloomington. Derek has been a local leader in the entertainment and hospitality circles, serving on the boards of the chamber of commerce, convention and visitors bureau, and the convention and visitors commission, among other posts. Previously managing partner of Rawhide Ranch, he is now director of production at Hard Truth Distilling Co. and Quaff ON! Brewing Co.

16 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

Derek and Sara Clifford. photo by Bob Gustin

But between those professional responsibilities, the couple also takes time to help in other community activities, to support three sons involved in many activities of their own, and to host a foreign exchange student. They are also both leaders in Cub Scout Pack 190, Derek as cubmaster and treasurer, and Sara as pack committee chair, advancement chair, and assistant leader of the Bear den. “We have enough skillsets and have been around lots of kids. Enough people will sit on the sidelines and complain, but not enough get involved and try to make changes,” said Sara. Sara is from Paris, Ill., and graduated from DePauw University in Greencastle, Ind., where she studied creative writing, journalism, and Spanish. Derek, from Westville, Ill., has a degree in theater from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. They met at Camp Ondessonk, a Catholic summer camp in southern Illinois. Both were campers there as children and teenagers but

—Sara Clifford didn’t cross paths until they were in their early 20s. Sara was working as marketing and development director there and Derek took a job running the camp’s food service program. “I was struck by her beauty,” Derek said, “but I thought someone that pretty was probably not the easiest to get along with.” After he introduced himself to her in 2001, he was pleasantly surprised to discover he had been wrong about Sara’s personality. “I had just moved to the camp,” Sara said. “I thought I had resigned myself to live with my dog and be by myself. Then in walked Derek. He was about my age, loved camping and nature. He was hard-working. Watching him around kids, I knew he would be a good partner.” Derek was laid off from his Ondessonk job in 2002, and soon after, Sara decided to pursue a job in journalism. Sara moved to her great-aunt’s old farm in Carlisle, Ind., just north of Vincennes, and was hired as an associate news editor at the

Vincennes Sun-Commercial. Derek got a job with a grocery brokerage handling sales and grocery shelf resets, and Vincennes was the center of his territory. Their relationship grew, and they were married in 2003. Though they had little time together because of their job schedules, they took turns planning weekend trips around Indiana. One of those trips was to Nashville, Ind., and they remarked on how “cool” it would be to live there. Another trip was to French Lick, where, in 2005, they saw an advertisement in the Bedford Times-Mail newspaper, looking for a manager to live at Rawhide Ranch in southern Brown County. They discovered one of the partners for Rawhide Ranch was from Paris, Ill., and knew members of Sara’s family. Another was a DePauw graduate. Derek took the job and Sara began searching for a job near Brown County. She interviewed with Mike Lewis, then editor of the Bedford Times-Mail, and found he used to live just a few houses away from the Rawhide Ranch property. The couple saw all these coincidences as signposts helping to point a direction for their life decisions. Sara took the job as lifestyle editor in Bedford, and spent five years there, commuting from Rawhide Ranch. She took the editor’s job at the Brown County Democrat to be closer to home as the Clifford family grew. Continued on 18

courtesy photo

“I thought I had resigned myself to live with my dog and be by myself. Then in walked Derek.... Watching him around kids, I knew he would be a good partner.”

Henry, Samuel, Caleb, and Victor, an exchange student from Spain.

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 17

Selfie from Camp Ondessonk where it all began.

CLIFFORDS continued from 17 She won nearly 100 individual journalism awards at the Democrat, and the paper itself won the Hoosier State Press Association’s general excellence award each year she was editor. It was the most honored paper of its size in the state from 2009 to 2021. Three times during those years, the Democrat won the HSPA Blue Ribbon Award, given to the paper that best serves its readers, all things considered. But long, hard working hours for Sara came along with the awards, as she routinely worked 60 hours a week or more in a salaried position. The Cliffords have three sons. Caleb, 16, is involved in high school soccer and musicals, the show choir, 4-H, and St. Agnes Catholic church activities. Samuel, 10, is a member of his school’s robotics team, 4-H robotics programs, Scouts, the “Circle the State with Song” program, and was chosen as a school ambassador. Henry, 9, is learning jujitsu, and participates in Scouts, 4-H, and Brown County Parks and Recreation sports. Sara and Derek help in many of those activities, and are also hosts for Victor, an exchange student from Spain who lives with the family. She resigned the editor’s job in 2021 to take the job at IU, as her job had become more stressful and she needed to spend more time with her family.

18 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

“I didn’t have the same heart for it,” Sara said of her decision to leave the Democrat. “I was not serving the readers the way they deserved to be served.” As managing editor for the geological survey publications, Sara finds scientists for peer review of earth science papers, edits the articles, and manages their production. She also writes a regular electronic newsletter, the E-Geo News, about survey research and activities. Several times a year, she also volunteers to write for Ondessonk’s newsletters. Derek, who had increasing responsibilities at Rawhide Ranch as manager and operating partner, was likewise ready for a change. “We lived at the ranch, so I was always on call,” he said. “I realized I had to do something different when I was on the couch trying to take a nap and I heard the phone ring in another room. I felt my heart rhythm change, and I knew it was not healthy.” One of his side jobs while at the ranch was plowing snow from parking lots, and one of his clients was Hard Truth Distilling Co. When he put out the word that he was looking for other work, the offer came from Quaff ON!, a sister company to Hard Truth. He started out as general manager of the brewery before being promoted to director of production of both companies. He said he makes sure everything is dealt with responsibly, from ordering original resources to distilling, personnel, all the way through to distribution. While working at Rawhide Ranch, Derek became active in the convention and visitors bureau, the small lodging association, and the chamber of commerce. He eventually became treasurer of the CVB and president of the chamber. He said his goal was partly self-serving, making sure his type of business, as well as his business itself, was represented. Also, he wanted to do his part in making the organizations successful. He is still a member of the convention and visitors commission, the appointed committee that allocates innkeeper’s tax dollars. Though Sara is no longer in community journalism, both are vocal about the importance of local newspapers as many are experiencing circulation losses. Derek said journalists are paid to be watchdogs over local government and allow people to go on with their lives without that direct responsibility. “I truly fear for the future of our communities,” he said. “The general public doesn’t tend to understand what they have in a weekly newspaper.” 

Weed Patch Music Company Your favorite lil’ music store in Brown County, Indiana

HABERDASHERY

58 E. Main St. Nashville (by courthouse) 812-200-3300 www.weedpatchmusicshop.com

From fedoras and stingy brims to ivy caps and hiking hats —we’ve got you covered

onka and Acorn Also comfort footwear from Minnetonka including slippers for the entire family

Musical instruments for all ages and skill levels

Offering affordable instruments to inspire the beginner and locally handcrafted beauties to awe the professional

49 S. Van Buren St. in Nashville • 812-988-6535 Find us on Facebook • OPEN DAILY 11–5

Lessons, workshops, and more...

NEW LEAF

Bring the Woodlands into your home

An eclectic mix of creative items by local, regional, and global artists

87 East Main Street Nashville, Indiana 812-988-6080

GALLERY AND MUSEUM 48 S. Van Buren Street Nashville, IN 47448 812 988-6185 BrownCountyArtGuild.org

Calvin Place Franklin & Van Buren Streets Nashville, IN • (812) 988-1058 www.amygreely.com

The Guild. Fine Art by Fine Artists.

Featuring handcrafted jewelry by owner Amy Greely

#CanYouPaint_Challenge ONLINE ART CONTEST JANUARY 1 – FEBRUARY 28, 2024

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 19

2024 Events & Exhibits JANUARY 1 – 28

Gallery Permanent Collection FEBRUARY 5 – MARCH 28

Watercolor Society of Indiana Exhibit APRIL 5 – MAY 31

Flowers

Gallery Permanent Collection APRIL 13 – MAY 12

Mabel B. Annis Student Art Competition JUNE 8 – JULY 13

IHA 46th Annual Exhibition & Sale JUNE 15

Painting Selma’s Garden Complete event schedule online at BrownCountyArtGallery.org F d CORNER OF MAIN STREET & ARTIST DRIVE · NASHVILLE, IN 812.988.4609 · OPEN DAILY · FREE ADMISSION · FREE PARKING

MOONSHINE LEATHER C

Handcrafted Leather Goods · Made in the USA 812.988.1326 · moonshineleather.com

38 SOUTH VAN BUREN · NASHVILLE, IN 20 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

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Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 21

Rivers and Roads

~by Chrissy Alspaugh

he first step into Nashville’s new Rivers and Roads LLC shop prompts pause, as customers take in the colorful, calming visual potpourri they’ve walked into. Walls brim with carefully staged ceramics, hand-crafted soaps, woven wool rugs and handbags, antique cameras turned into lamps, tea, jewelry, honey, and an exhibit of beeswax candles that range from elegant to eccentric.

Owners Adam and Gracie Dillon-Moore. photos by Chrissy Alspaugh

Owners Adam and Gracie Dillon-Moore have carefully filled the store with all-natural, one-ofa-kind, artisan-made delights to suit any budget. The shop’s sweet, fresh aroma is hard to place. “It’s nothing,” Adam chuckles. “Most of our world is so flooded with synthetic fragrances and chemicals, it’s surprising to walk into a space where the scent is literally nothing.” While the scent may be “nothing” more than plant-based products throughout, the shop means everything to a couple who decided two years ago to create a life for their family that was meaningful, sustainable, conscious, and creative. It’s not far from the life Gracie watched her father, Bill Dillon, lead while running Nashville’s leathersmith shop when she was a child.

22 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

photo by Cindy Steele

She didn’t realize until he died in 2021 that the most important gift he ever gave her was the stubbornness to prioritize creativity over materialism. After his death, changes happened fast. The couple—hovering barely on either side of their 40th birthdays—quit the corporate world, sold their Tennessee home, and moved with their three young children into Gracie’s mother’s Bloomington basement. Determination to do life a new way was their fuel. Having met years before in the natural foods industry, Adam and Gracie sought to pursue their passion for helping others live healthier lives. The idea of creating beeswax candles came by accident, while Gracie searched for candles to burn with their Yule log in 2021. Frustrated by not finding affordable products whose suppliers were transparent about their production and ingredients, Gracie took the beeswax into her own hands. Literally. “Beeswax is an absolute mess,” she said, shaking her head, laughing. “It’s very challenging and finicky. It has to be at just the right temperature, in just the right environment, poured at just the right ratio. I tried it a few months and knew it was not for me. “But Adam? He tried it the first time, and it worked great.” A little voice in the back of Gracie’s head nagged her about how much she’d loved watching the potter next door to her father’s leather shop when she was a little girl. She said watching him throw pots was “pure magic.” In fact, Gracie took a pottery class when she was 25 and loved that, too.

So, while her husband began spending late nights reading candle forums in bed, Gracie soon could be found over in the corner, throwing pots on her wheel, or testing glazes on votive plates. Many of her father’s old leather-working tools found their second career in Gracie’s hands, giving her ceramics a unique twist. After a lot of trial and error, she eventually signed up to try selling her ceramics in a craft market. “I was so nervous in the days leading up to it, I really didn’t think I could go,” Gracie said, laughing. “I kept telling Adam, ‘I can’t do it. You go!’” She went. Customers loved her work. Rivers and Roads opened online through Etsy <RiversAndRoadsLLC.etsy.com> in January 2022. Continued on 27

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 23

GRASSHOPPER FLATS Jewelers EST. 1970

Best Be est prices p in the area! SSterling terli Silver and Gold Jewelry Diam Diamonds • Opals • Gemstones Repai Repairs • Wedding Bands

47 E. Main St. (Old School Way Alley) Behind Brown County Winery Grasshopper Flats Jewelers 812-988-4037 • Closed Tues. & Wed.

EST 1927

Brown County’s Most Historic Restaurant Serving our famous fried biscuits and apple butter, fried chicken and other traditional favorites all made in our own kitchen from scratch. Come check out our Old Country Store, beautiful new patio, expanded menu and HOHENBERGER BAR 15 South Van Buren Street 812-988-4554 www.nashvillehousebc.com

24 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

LOCALLY HANDMADE FINE CRAFTS

BESIDE THE NASHVILLE HOUSE RESTAURANT

We now carry Schuster Glass 812.988.1286 • Spearspottery.com • facebook.com/Spears-Gallery

Brown County

WINERY WINER WINE RY RY

· AWARD WINNING QUALITY WINES SINCE 1986 ·

Complimentary Tastings · Two Tasting Rooms WINERY IN GNAWBONE

4520 State Road 46 East · Nashville 812.988.6144

VILLAGE OF NASHVILLE

East Main & Old School Way 812.988.8646

OPEN DAILY

Monday-Thursday 10 – 5 · Friday & Saturday 10 – 5:30 · Sunday 11 – 5

Wine & Wine-related Gifts · Gourmet Foods Outdoor Seating · Gift Cards · Online Ordering

BrownCountyWinery.com

the

Inn & Restaurant

A Charming 19th Century Style Inn and Restaurant

• 20 Guest Rooms, 3 Suites with Whirlpool Baths • Banquet and Conference Rooms for Retreats or Parties • Gift Certificates Available Serving Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Breakfast Buffet 8:00 am–10:30 am Monthly Dinner Theatre Shows At the corner of Van Buren and Franklin Streets in Nashville, Indiana

812-988-0600 • 800-737-0255

artistscolonyinn.com

we are open in the winter come see us in antique alley, online store: claypurl.com facebook live weekly: wednesdays at 10:30 january and february hours: weather permitting— wednesday - friday 11-4, saturday 11-5, sunday 12-4

92 w franklin st • nashville, in • 812.988.0336

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 25

NEW LOCATION

Scrapbooking & Rubber Stamps Heritage Mall 41 S. Van Buren St. • Nashville 812-988-7009 wishful.thinking@att.net www.wishfulthinking-in.com Owner: Marlene Miller

Play for All Ages 10,000+ items

Brown County Antique Mall Antique Store since 1972

Over 10,000 square feet in three buildings

Filled with antiques, jewelry, pottery, china, glass, furniture, artifacts, primitives, books, collectibles, and home decor. More than 76 dealers • We buy and sell

3288 State Road 46 East 3 miles east of Nashville, IN • 13 miles west of I-65 Open 7 Days a week till 5:30 • 812-988-1025

26 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

50 YEARS

photo by Chrissy Alspaugh

RIVERS AND ROADS continued from 23 Adam said they’ve intentionally grown slowly, carefully choosing each ingredient they will use, each product their hands will make, and each vendor they will invite into their store. They opened the Nashville storefront at 76 East Main St. in April of 2023. Throughout the little shop, signs tell customers about each artist who crafted the sustainable products before them. The majority are local. The back of the store boasts craft tables where walk-in customers can paint their own pottery. Gracie also offers group and individual ceramics classes by appointment. Like any business launch, Gracie said this season of their life has had its share of highs and lows. What keeps them moving forward, she said, is the joy of work that is good for the planet and good for people. The best affirmations come when into the shop walks a customer who sought them out from Columbus, Bloomington, or Etsy, Adam said. “To see their faces light up because they really get what we’re doing here is just awesome,” Gracie said. “But even more than that, to see our kids talk with pride about the choices we make at our shop— that’s really sweet. “Even on the days that feel long, we check back in with each other and know, without a doubt, that we’re living life on purpose.” 

Touch of Silver, Gold & Old

87 E. Main St. • Nashville, IN 47448 (812) 988-6990 • (800) 988-6994 Hours: 10am – 5pm • 7 days a week touchofsilver@gmail.com

Hoosier Buddy Liquors Cold Beer, Fine Wines & Select Spirits Cold Beer:

Hoosier Buddy offers more than 150 different beers, including more than 80 craft, micro, and imports. We proudly offer a wide variety of beers from Indiana’s finest brewers.

Fine Wines:

Hoosier Buddy is a wine-lovers type of store. With more than 200 wines to choose from, we’ve got something for everyone. Check out our “Affordable Imports” and “90+ Point” selections.

Select Spirits:

Hoosier Buddy offers an ever expanding array of top-notch spirits. Our whiskey category alone includes more than 75 different choices. Whether you’re looking for a Single Barrel Bourbon or a Single Malt from Islay— we stock them.

284 S. Van Buren • Nashville, IN (next to Subway) 812-988-2267 M-Th 8am-10pm • Fri. & Sat. 8am-11pm NOW OPEN SUNDAYS Noon-6pm Follow us on Twitter @HoosierBuddy1

As always, Hoosier Buddy Liquors reminds you to celebrate safe—don’t drink and drive.

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 27

Established in 2005 — Always a trendsetter

You will find traffic stopping items at 58 South!

Today’s fashion

AUTHENTIC NEW YORK STYLE PIZZA

A family-friendly pizza place PIZZA • SALADS • CALZONES

wearable every day or for special occasions Our accessories, hats, and comfort shoes complete the outfit or add new fresh looks to your wardrobe. Fit and affordability for missy and younger-thinking shoppers.

58 South Apparel 58 S. Van Buren St. • Nashville, IN

Located in downtown Nashville next to the Brown County Playhouse 812-988-8440 • fiftyeightsouth@gmail.com

Lisa J. Baker, DDS

140 W. Main Street • (812) 988-8800 In the heart of Nashville by the Village Green area at the intersection of Main and Jefferson Streets.

Dine-In or Carry-Out

Open 11am–9:00pm • Closed Mondays

We appreciate our loyal customers!

Dr. Lisa Baker, tooth artist and smile specialist

Amazing While-you-wait Crowns!

Family Cosmetic Preventive Dentistry

Call for an appointment today:

812-332-2000 • www.drlisabaker.net 4217 E. 3rd Street • Bloomington, IN 47401

28 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

Our market fresh product selections are the result of your requests.

Flags, Yard, & Porch Decor Woodstock Chimes • Spinfinity .. Tervis Tumbler • BruMate Swan Creek • Dixie Belle Paint Willow Tree • Sharon Nolan Melissa & Doug • Ty Plush Jeeps T’s • Simply Southern Bobble Heads • Boglins!

Located in the heart of downtown Nashville next to Out of The Ordinary and across from the Brown County Playhouse

Did we mention all the hats, scarves, and fashion jewelry?

Rhonda Kay’s 69 S. Van Buren St. • Nashville, IN 812-988-2050 • rhondakays@msn.com

TREE

REMOVAL TRUSTED • SAFE • EFFICIENT

FREE ESTIMATES (812) 824-3335 Residential and Commercial Tree 8 CERTIFIED ARBORISTS Care Services

TIME-LAPSE VIDEO

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 29

Souvenirs Musings

~by Mark Blackwell

e are once again entering the depths of winter. Traditionally, this is a time of rest from the long summer days of laboring in the garden, and the long early autumn afternoons slaving in a hot kitchen, canning, and preserving the garden’s bounty. Now is a time of rest from putting the garden to bed for the winter, cleaning the gutters and raking fall leaves. A time of rest from cutting and hauling and splitting and stacking cords of firewood that will inevitably run out before the winter does. This is the season where we shrug off the hullabaloo of the holidays, throw another log on the fire, sit back in an easy chair, and let our minds drift forward in anticipation of spring seed catalogs and back to past pleasures and accomplishments. I know that when I settle down to do some serious reminiscing I don’t have to go far for inspiration. All I must do is just look around the house at the different furnishings, pictures hanging on the walls, books, and miscellany on the bookcase. It seems like everything I have collected has a story and prompts a memory. I guess you could just lump

30 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

all these things under the heading “souvenirs of a long, strange trip.” I imagine that about everybody (except those seduced by the “decluttering” cult) has a collection of souvenirs. There are folks like me (border-line hoarders) who live in museums of our own making. While I am writing this article, I can see the turn-ofthe-twentieth-century stereoscope that reminds me of childhood afternoons when I visited various older folks. To keep me seen but not heard, they would let me peruse their collections of 3-D images of past times and exotic places. Later in the 1950s, I would be (and still am) the happy owner of an updated stereoscope called a ViewMaster—and now it’s an antique.

Some souvenirs don’t just make you recall personal times and events, they can be time machines. Behind me sits a Victrola from the nineteen-teens given to me in about 1961 or 1962. With it came a collection of 78 rpm records. Together they represented a time machine of music and culture from forty years before. From those old 78s I gained an appreciation for Bix Beiderbecke and early jazz. Listening to Bing Crosby and the Happiness Boys vocalizing with the Paul Whiteman band took me back to a time when young folks living in the sticks could be entertained by the best music the big cities had to offer (before the Internet). The light in this room comes from a beautiful pottery lamp made by my incredibly talented sisterin-law. My coffee cup reminds me of Nashville, where it was made by a potter friend. I have a print of a painting of a schooner ship under full sail hanging on the wall. It was a Woolworth item from the 1930s or before. I got it from my grandparents’ house where it hung when I was growing up. This museum that I call “my office” is filled with music. I have found that music and smells are two things that can evoke memories that are amazingly vivid. And for me music can take me back to the house I grew up in. The radio was going about all the time with soap operas, adventure stories, and pop songs. I remember the house we were living in when I first heard Patty Page singing, “How Much is that Doggie in the Window?” I remember the kitchen with the yellow formica and chrome dinette set, where the radio, an ivory Sears Silvertone, sat on the refrigerator. Often the aroma of fresh baked brownies was coming from the oven. While the radio introduced me to pop tunes and later rock ’n’ roll, it was TV that taught me about early jazz and classical music. The soundtracks of the Looney Tunes and Merry Melodies cartoons from the 1930s and 40s got me to appreciate the jazz of that era. And I’m sure I’m not the only person whose initiation to classical music was Bugs Bunny cartoons. I dare anybody to close their eyes, hear the William Tell Overture and not think of the Lone Ranger. When that happens, I can see myself sitting

Women’s boutique, kids and teen clothing, men’s clothing, and household items Selling gently used items to benefit Brown County. Accepting clothing and household item donations.

Look for the sign

Tuesdays and Thursdays 10:00 to 5:00 Fridays 10:00 to 3:00

Like us on Facebook at Brown County Community Closet, New

284 South Van Buren in Nashville (near stoplight, behind Subway) (812) 988-6003

cross-legged on the living room carpet, waiting for Silver to rear up and hear that famous exclamation, “Hi-Yo Silver! Away.” Those things, and many more, are the souvenirs that I have picked up along the way. So, we can all say that our souvenirs are keys that open gateways to our personal pasts. They allow us to revisit our past selves, friends and relatives who are no longer with us, old adventures, sweet moments, and the world as it once was. Oh, and the next time you’re visiting Nashville don’t forget to remember to pick up a souvenir of Brown County. 

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 31

DISTILLERY RESTAURANT TOURS EVENTS

32 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

in Nashville, IN

172 N. Van Buren Street AND

102 S. Van Buren Street (Calvin Place)

www.JBGoods.com • 812-988-0900

“A Lil’ Taste of Heaven”

Serving Breakfast and Lunch Featuring Fabulous:

www.browncountylogcabins.com

Biscuit Sandwiches Homemade Biscuits and Sausage Gravy Cinnamon and Pecan Rolls Full Breakfast Menu Including:

Omelettes and Pancakes Bottomless Coffee and Ice Tea

165 N. Van Buren St. • Nashville, IN • 812-720-3440 CHECK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR HOURS

Find us on Facebook at Heavenly Biscuit Inc. Delivery within a mile radius when available Pet-friendly patio • Cash Only ATM on site

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 33

photos by Lindsey Lewis

Calendar Brown County Playhouse Feb. 3 Sunset Boulevard Radio Play Feb. 10 John Primer & The Real Deal Blues Band with special guests Jon McDonald & Tom Harold Feb. 17 Greg Hahn and Dave the King Wilson Feb. 24 The Why Store Mar. 1 Dogs of Society: the music of Elton John Mar. 2 Billy the Kid: the music of Billy Joel Mar. 8 40 Years of College low dough show Mar. 9 Escape: the music of Journey Mar. 15 Chris Collins: the music of John Denver Mar. 16 Best of Times: the music of Styx Mar. 22 Midnight Blue: the music of Foreigner Mar. 23 No Fences: the music of Garth Brooks Mar. 29 Stand Up Comedy Show Mar. 30 Woombies Rock Orchestra Most shows at 7:30 70 S. Van Buren Street 812-988-6555 www.browncountyplayhouse.org

Brown County Music Center Jan. 25 1964 The Tribute Jan. 27 Ace Frehley Feb. 2 Shenandoah Feb. 4 DAYBREAK: Music of Barry Manilow Feb. 10 Yacht Rock Revue Feb. 18 Lee Brice: Me & My Guitar Tour Feb. 25 TOTO Feb. 28 The Price is Right Live™ Mar. 1 Flogging Molly Mar. 2 John Michael Montgomery Mar. 7 Blue October Mar. 8 Gary Allan

The schedule can change. Please check before making a trip.

Mar. 15 Terri Clark Mar 16 Tower of Power Mar. 21 Steve Hackett - Genesis Revisited Mar. 24 An evening with Clint Black 812-988-5323 www.browncountymusiccenter.com

Brown County Inn Open Mic Nights Wed. 6:00-9:00 Hill Folk Music Series Thurs. 7:00-9:00 Fri. & Sat. Live Music 8:00-11:00 (ITR) - in the round Holiday break until Jan. 11 Jan. 11 Shlomo Franklin Jan. 12 Banister Bluegrass Band Jan. 13 Zion Crossroads Jan. 17 Open Mic Jan. 18 Frank Jones Jan. 19,20 Uke Fest Jan. 24 Open Mic Jan. 25 Warren Byrom Jan. 26 Taylor Hernley Jan. 27 Low Landers Jan. 31 Open Mic Feb. 1 ITR Lexi Len, Frank Dean, Marla Jo Feb. 2 Austin James Feb. 3 Caitlin Spangler Feb. 7 Open Mic Feb. 8 Nick Dittmeier Feb. 9 Common Ground Feb. 10 Sean Lamb & Janet Miller Feb. 14 Open Mic Feb. 15 Elkins Jamily Feb. 16 Nathan Dillon Duo Feb. 17 Dan Kirk Duo Feb. 21 Open Mic Feb. 22 Dietrich Gosser Feb. 23 Davis & Devitt Jan. 24 Father Kentucky & Friends Jan. 28 Open Mic Jan. 29 Billy Blanchard 51 State Road 46 East 812-988-2291 www.browncountyinn.com

36 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

Country Heritage Winery Music Fri. & Sat. 6:00-9:00 Jan. 6 Amanda & Brian Webb Jan. 12 Albert Knolting Jan. 13 Frank Jones Duo Jan. 19 Benjamin Fuson Jan. 20 Coner Berry Band Jan. 26 Albert Knolting Jan. 27 Indiana Petty & The Wildflowers Feb. 2 Evan Nix Feb. 3 TBD Feb. 9 Amanda & Brian Webb Feb. 10 Gary Applegate & Joe Rock Feb. 16 Albert Knolting Feb. 17 Ken Wilson Duo Feb. 23 Gene Fugate Feb. 24 Ruben Guthrie 225 S. Van Buren Street 812-988-8500 www.countryheritagewinery.com

19th Hole Sports Bar Music Fri. 7:00-10:00 | Sat. 8:00-11:00 Jan. 6 Love Shack Karaoke Jan. 12 Gene Fugate Jan. 13 Justin Slager Jan. 19 Clearwater Band Jan. 20 Zion Crossroads Jan. 26 Forest Gras Jan. 27 Mike Staaublin Feb. 2 John Ryan Band Feb. 3 Love Shack Karaoke Feb. 9 Gene Fugate Feb. 10 Ruben Guthrie Feb. 16 Clearwater Band Feb. 17 TBD Feb. 23 Bel and the Bad Wolves Feb. 24 Zion Crossroads 2359 East State Road 46 812-988-4323 www.saltcreekgolf.com

Sycamore Saloon at Harmony Tree Resorts Fri. Karaoke 8:00 | Sat. Live Music 8:00 Sun. Game Day 3:00 Jan. 5 Karaoke Jan. 6 John Ryan Jan. 7 Sunday Game Day Jan. 12 Karaoke Jan. 13 Gary Brown Jan. 14 Sunday Game Day Jan. 19 Karaoke Jan. 20 Wayne Pennington Jan. 21 Sunday Game Day Jan. 26 Karaoke Jan. 27 Doug Dillman Jan. 28 Sunday Game Day Feb. 2 Karaoke Feb. 3 Kyle Mercer Feb. 4 Sunday Game Day Feb. 9 Karaoke Feb. 10 Justin Slager Feb. 11 Sunday Game Day Feb. 14 Valentines Day Dinner Feb. 16 Karaoke Feb. 17 TBD Feb. 18 Sunday Game Day Feb. 23 Karaoke Feb. 24 Phil Pierle Feb. 25 Sunday Game Day 1292 SR 135 S, Nashville 812-200-5650 www.harmonytreeresorts.com

Story Inn Jan. 5 Jan. 6 Jan. 12 Jan. 13 Jan. 19 Jan. 27

Love Shack Karaoke 9:30-12:30 pianist Ted Seaman 6:00-9:00 Love Shack Karaoke 9:30-12:30 pianist Ted Seaman 6:00-9:00 Love Shack Karaoke 9:30-12:30 pianist Ted Seaman 6:00-9:00 Comedy show 8:30-10:30 Feb. 2 Love Shack Karaoke 9:30-12:30 Feb. 3 pianist Ted Seaman 6:00-9:00 Feb. 9 Love Shack Karaoke 9:30-12:30 Feb. 10 pianist Ted Seaman 6:00-9:00 Feb. 16 Love Shack Karaoke 9:30-12:30 Feb. 17 pianist Ted Seaman 6:00-9:00

Feb. 23 Love Shack Karaoke 9:30-12:30 Feb. 24 pianist Ted Seaman 6:00-9:00 Comedy show 8:30-10:30 6404 SR 135 S. 812-988-2273 www.storyinn.com

First Day Hike Brown County State Park Jan. 1 2 mile hike 11:00-2:00 Strollers, wagons, bicycles, and leashed pets welcome. Start the hike anytime between 11:00-1:00. Hot chocolate and a fire provided by Friends of the State Park. Meet at Nature Center 812-988-5240 Eli Major, park naturalist emajor@dnr.in.gov

Brown County Ukulele Festival Jan. 19 and 20, Brown County Inn Jam sessions, workshops, concerts, vendors, open mic. FRIDAY: Ray Cygrymus 6:30 RussBuss and Grumpy Coyote 7:15 Open Mic 8:30 SATURDAY: Katy Vernon 6:30 Matt Dahlberg and John 7:15 Brown County Family band 8:00 Open jam after concerts 9:30 Mainland Ukes sponsor www.browncountyukefest.com

Brown County State Park Nature Center Programs Jan. 5 Timber Rattlesnakes | 4:00-5:00 Close look at Indiana’s most venomous and most misunderstood snake. History including how it became a symbol in the late 1700s on the Gadsden Flag. Learn about venom, how it works and is delievered. At the end a live mouse will be fed to the snake-may not be suitable for all but attendees will have an opportunity to leave before the feeding.

Jan. 14 Vintage Video | 11:00-11:30 view a 1940s era advertisement for IN state parks. Learn about the park mission, famous locations, and changes. Jan. 19 Turtle Time | 4:00-4:30 Talk about eastern box turtle, unique adaptations, issues they face. Jan. 27 Indiana Woodpeckers | 11:00-11:45 Presentation by Don Glass, NPR’s “Moment of Science” radio personality, on Indiana’s seven species of native woodpeckers. 812-988-5240 Eli Major, park naturalist emajor@dnr.in.gov

Winter Hike Series Brown County State Park Jan. 6

Kelp Village 1.5 miles round trip-least rugged Jan. 13 Bolder in the Tree 2 miles round trip-quite rugged off trail, dress for weather, creek crossings, boots essential Jan. 20 Wildfire Ecology Lean about park’s 112 acre wildfire in 2022 and effects/strategies. 3 miles round trip-rugged off trail Feb. 3 Lake that never was 2.5 miles long-very rugged Feb. 17 10 O’Clock Line 2.5 miles-moderate, along fire trail/Nature Preserve Feb. 24 CCC Ruins and Deserters Cave 1.5 mile-easy to rugged Meet at Nature Center at 11:00 No pets on off trail hikes 812-988-5240 Eli Major, park naturalist emajor@dnr.in.gov

Frosty Trails Extreme Trail Race Jan. 13, 10:00-5:00 | Hard Truth Hills Extreme trail races-runners on a tour thru hilly terrain of Hard Truth Hills property. 418 Old State Road 46 812-720-4840 www.hardtruthhills.com

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 37

Mar. 8 Gary Allan Mar. 15 Terri Clark Mar 16 Tower of Power Mar. 21 Steve Hackett - Genesis Revisited Mar. 24 An evening with Clint Black Apr. 4 Dave Mason's Traffic Jam + Jefferson Starship Apr. 6 Jo Dee Messina Apr. 7 The Righteous Brothers Apr. 9 Wheeler Walker Jr. May 4 Beth Hart Aug. 24, 25 Aaron Lewis Acoustic

For additional shows and tickets visit: www.BrownCountyMusicCenter.com

Specializing in new books, classic literature, and bookish gifts for every reader

LOCATED IN THE HISTORIC STATE BANK BUILDING 76 1/2 East Main Street Nashville, Indiana www.naughtydogbooks.com Follow us on Facebook & Instagram

38 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

2 Locations at Abe’s Corner

BOUTIQUE

Large Selections of Women’s and Children’s Clothing Handmade Purses Open Daily 9:00–7:00

58 E. Main St. (next to courthouse) and 60 N. Van Buren St. (Colonial bldg.) Nashville, IN

Abe’s HIDDEN GETAWAY Corner Apartment for Daily Rental Inquire inside boutique $90 on the weekdays $100 on the weekends

812-720-7071

Open Daily at 11 a.m.

Open Year-Round for Lunch & Dinner

Fresh made to order starters, salads, sandwiches and house specialties

Brown County’s only “Husband Day Care”

Guinness on tap • Full bar • Specialty drinks • Bloody Mary • Islander • Margarita

Full menu available in Bar • Large TV Out of the Ordinary Restaurant & Hickory Sports Bar

61 South Van Buren St. • Nashville, IN Across the street from the Brown County Playhouse

(812) 200-1999 •

OutOfTheOrdinaryRestaurant

2022 Voted Best Antique Shop in Columbus

ANTIQUE SHOPPE

OVER 14,000 SQ FT • MORE THAN 100 VENDORS

Beautifully landscaped on 59 acres 91 Campsites each with a fire pit, picnic table, and gravel lot Staff on-site Full water/sewer hookups 20, 30 and 50 AMP Access to all campground amenities

Minutes from downtown Nashville • Easy access from I65 5515 State Road 46 East • Nashville, Indiana 812-568-1209 • info@awayadayrvcampground.com

Antiques • Vintage • Collectibles • Jewelry • Trading Cards • Furniture • Much More

3850 25th St. Columbus • 812-799-0347 Open 7 Days a Week • Just 30 short minutes from Nashville

www.daysofold.store

Days of Old Antique Shoppe

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 39

Photos submitted by Roxane Neibert, of Jackson Township VFD, and Lacy Hazelgrove, of Brown County VFD in Nashville.

Being a Volunteer Firefighter ~by Boris Ladwig

rown County’s volunteer firefighters come from different walks of life, join the departments at different ages and under different circumstances, but at their core they all share a desire to help their neighbors. “I do it because I finally found my niche and what I’m good at and that is helping other people,” said Lacy Hazelgrove, chief of the Brown County Volunteer Fire Department in Nashville.

“I’ve always had a passion for helping people,” said Brian Braunagel, volunteer firefighter with Jackson Township Volunteer Fire Department. “I just enjoy serving the community,” said Roxane Neibert, also with the Jackson Township department. Hazelgrove, a Brown County native, holds a bachelor’s degree in public health from Indiana University and worked in an

40 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

emergency room in Florida before coming back to Indiana. She took a part-time job in dispatch for the sheriff’s office where she met a former fire chief, Nick Kelp. “I had always been interested in the fire service but you never see females in it,” she said. Kelp encouraged her to join, saying, “Yeah, females can do that. Why would you think otherwise?” So she went to the station, turned in her application and became part of the volunteer fire service. Of course, that was just the beginning. Hazelgrove, 40, points out that volunteer firefighters do the same training and get the same certifications as firefighters in professional departments. She got training in firefighting, hazardous materials and as an emergency medical technician, after which she began working for IU Health. She kept going and got an associate degree in paramedicine and worked with Avon Fire Department as a paramedic. Today, she is the president of the Brown County Volunteer Fire Department in Nashville, as well as the department’s public information officer and medical officer.

In her department of 13, all except one have obtained medical certifications. Braunagel, 52, joined the volunteer department in Indianapolis in 1991 and became a paid full-time firefighter with Franklin Township, in Indianapolis, in 1997. That department merged with the Indianapolis department in 2010, where he has worked since then. Braunagel moved to Brown County five years ago and wanted to help the community, so he decided to do in his spare time what he does in his job: firefighting. “I like the way this is a big family here,” he said. “We do a lot for the community, and that’s the way it should be.” Braunagel is doing what he can to help address the firefighter shortage: His son just got hired by the Indianapolis Fire Department. Neibert, 62, is a retired physical therapist and said she has always been a volunteer, when her kids were in school, and while she worked. She joined the department after volunteering to help with a community event.

“I was just helping set up, and pretty soon I noticed I was sucked in and part of the department,” she said. Volunteer fire departments share some of the same struggles. They usually don’t have enough money to pay for needed station and equipment upgrades, and they don’t usually have personnel to be able to respond to all calls. Both the Nashville and Jackson Township departments respond to about two-thirds of the calls that get dispatched. In a third of the cases, the firefighters just cannot respond because they’re at work or because they cannot get up in the middle of the night to respond to a fire when they have to get up early for their day jobs, where lives also may be on the line. Hazelgrove said employers generally are understanding when employees get dispatched, but sometimes they just cannot get away. When the volunteer departments cannot send anyone to respond to the call, dispatchers contact the nearest department. While that eventually generates a response, local volunteer firefighters say it usually results in delays, which can make outcomes much worse. Hazelgrove’s most difficult day as a firefighter came when the home of a fellow firefighter burned down and the colleague’s dogs died. “When I discovered one of their dogs, I lost it,” Hazelgrove said. “I had to go out of the structure and … I was completely checked out after that.” Continued on 42

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 41

FIREFIGHTER continued from 41 But she said when bad things happen, such as a fatal fire or car crash, firefighters support one another. Hazelgrove said firefighters return to the station after a run to return their machinery and equipment, but also to talk about what went well and where they can improve. After tough situations, firefighters check in on one another to make sure they’re all right. They also have a support group where they can talk about struggles with work or in their personal lives. “Sometimes people think about something that happened years ago, and we’ll reach out,” she said. The firefighters said they could always use help from people who want to give their time. Hazelgrove said the department does not have an age limit or physical fitness test but said people should be aware that they might be in hot, tight spaces and should be able to overcome that. But even people who cannot fight fires can help the department, she said. People who cannot physically do the job still can come to training or maintenance sessions and can help at scenes in a limited capacity or even just with fundraising. “There’s always a place for everybody in the fire service,” she said. Neibert agreed.

42 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

“You don’t have to be out there fighting fires,” she said. Braunagel said volunteer departments always have struggled with staffing, but it may have gotten worse because people appear to have less time because they’re working two jobs or taking care of children or grandchildren. Brown County, especially, may have a tougher time than some other areas because of the higher share of retirees.

The Nashville station, for example, is not staffed around the clock, because the volunteers have professional jobs. The Jackson Township station is staffed throughout the day, but only because Neibert is retired. People who are interested in helping can contact the department in Nashville by going to the website <.browncountyvfd.org> and downloading a member application. People also can stop by the Jackson Township station weekdays or leave a message on the answering machine. For more information on these and the other four Brown County departments you can link to the Indiana Volunteer Firefighter Assoc. website: <ivfa.org/counties/ brown/> and click on the department name, or call the numbers below: Brown Co. (Nashville): 812-988-4242 Jackson Twp: 812-988-6201 Fruitdale: 812-988-1696 Hamblen Township: 812-988-4063 Southern Brown: 812-988-4063 Cordry-Sweetwater: 317-933-2224 

• Fishing Tackle • Horse Tack • RV Replacement Parts • Bee Keeping Supplies • Maple Syrup Supplies • Pet & Livestock Food • Antiques YOUR OUTDOOR HEADQUARTERS Tents, Camping Lights, Sleeping Bags, Grills, Fire Starters, Coleman Heaters & Lanterns, Cooking Utensils

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CUSTOM HOMES & REMODELS ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN

812.287.7575 LORENWOODBUILDERS.COM

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 43

liveinbrowncounty.com

Is this the year? you can LIVE YOUR DREAM IN Brown County. WE ARE BROWN COUNTY REAL ESTATE. OUR NAME SAYS IT ALL. We are real estate professionals specializing in Brown County. We work here. We are passionate about living here, and we love helping others realize their dreams. When you’re looking to buy or sell a home or property—or just dreaming—please contact us. Let’s talk.

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317 652-9661

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UPCOMING LIVE EVENTS!

CELEBRATING

Feb 3

YEARS

1949-2024

Sunset Boulevard: Radio Play

Feb 10 John Primer & The Real Deal Blues Band with special guests Jon McDonald & Tom Harold Feb 17 Greg Hahn and Dave the King Wilson Feb 24 The Why Store Mar 1

Dogs of Society: The Music of Elton John

Mar 2

Billy the Kid: The Music of Billy Joel

Mar 8

40 Years of College LOW DOUGH SHOW

Mar 9

Escape: The Music of Journey

Mar 15 Chris Collins: The Music of John Denver Mar 16 Best of Times: The Music of Styx Mar 22 Midnight Blue: The Music of Foreigner Mar 23 No Fences: The Music of Garth Brooks Mar 29 Stand Up Comedy Show Mar 30 Woomblies Rock Orchestra

812.988.6555 | BrownCountyPlayhouse.org Showtimes, tickets & schedule online

44 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

Brown County Michael Rebman Certified Therapist

Chair Massage: $25 • Table Massage: $85 EFT Tapping $49 • ION Footpath $49

104 S. Jefferson St. • Nashville, IN 47448 browncomassage.com

812-988-4447

Fresh In-Store Donuts

* Log Cabins * Game Rooms * Pet Friendly * Hot Tubs * Private Pools * Lake Fronts

Call, Book Online, or Stop in! 812.988.6554 • 30 Washington St. • Nashville, IN Like and Follow Us! MoonDanceVacationHomes.com

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Your Post Frame Specialists

812-988-1822

Nashville BP State Roads 46 & 135 270 S. Van Buren St. in Nashville

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 45

~by Jim Eagleman

Field Notes

Crows “I

t’s a murder,” my birder friend corrected me. What? Did he say murder? “It’s a murder of crows, not a flock or covey. Use the proper terminology, please,” he said, a stickler for correct language. I guessed this murder of crows, now cawing and loud, could be announcing a crime had been committed, avian outlaws back from a night of terror. But they swooped in, one by one, alighting on the topmost branches, forthright and with no sign of a felony. I adjusted my binocs, and just listened to their calls. Another trait these birds are known for, far less gruesome, is their vocabulary. I heard variations in volume, tone, and tempo—some sounds guttural and harsh, others soft and almost caressing. They might have been engaged in an argument one minute, then more agreeing. Oftentimes crows seem to converse while other birds call or sing. It’s understandable how we imagine crows hold trials, noisy and brassy, condemn other members, and debate. Once when two crows attacked a third close by, that harried bird uttered a hollow,

46 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

rattling, woodpecker-like sound I had never heard before. Crows can use at least 250 different calls and imitate other birds. The common crow, fish crows, rooks, ravens, and jays all belong to the same family, the Corvidae— Magpies, too. These curious, investigative birds survive as scavengers; they feed on road-kills, worms, insects, and rodents. I sometimes see crows feeding in a corn stubble field, spread out over a large area, always within view of each other. This habit of safety in numbers provides mutual protection, another family trait. They warn each other of an attack from a bird of prey, their chief predator. During a burst of flight on roads, nearly too late, they are keenly aware of oncoming traffic. I suspect the same vigilance happens, should a coon appear near the nest or if predators approach. Ehen a crow dies or is killed, the murder will surround the deceased. This “funeral” isn’t thought to be mourning the dead. The crows may gather to find out what killed their member. The murder will chase predators in a behavior called mobbing. Like starlings and songbirds mobbing crows as threats, crows mob hawks and owls.

Our backwoods compost pile attracts crows each summer with vegetable scraps, husks and ears of corn, and eggshells worth investigating. One sentry lands on the edge of the box made of pallets while others perch overhead. Soon one flies down slowly to enter the box, the lookout muttering and repositioning. Some take turns to watch while others eat. I sense it is a mature and larger bird that feeds first. Others may return on their own or fly away impatient with waiting. Intelligence is evaluated in many animal behavior labs throughout the country and world. The science of ethology helps scientists delve into understanding how animal and bird brains work. Known for their problem-solving skills, crows are also good communicators. Research shows crows don’t forget a face. Frowning or pleasant Halloween masks worn by researchers reveal differences in crow behavior. Nervous perching while calling denotes an intruder. They’ve been known to hold a grudge and caw madly at the researcher who trapped them. The suspected destruction to agriculture by crows may be overstated. While they do attack corn and crops, they also may prevent damage by eating harmful insect pests. Stomach contents of crows living near crop fields reveal 60–90% contain injurious bugs. Years ago, my birder friend Dwight Chamberlain used a pet crow at nature programs at a state park where he worked. Dwight showed visitors the crow’s ability to learn tricks: pull a string from a bottle for a reward and pick something from his pocket. A high perch gave the crow a commanding view. Its caws announced its presence. Other crows flew by for a look, and soon there was plenty of vocalizing. Dwight wore a toupee, and once during a program his pet crow landed on his head. Yep, you guessed it. The crow took

off with the hairpiece and everyone, including Dwight, was surprised. But good natured and ever the educator, Dwight laughed along with the crowd. Dwight’s interest in avian education, and his lifelong love of birds of prey particularly, led to the staff at Hardy Lake Reservoir, near Scottsburg, Ind., naming the hospital for injured birds of prey the Dwight Chamberlain Raptor Center. The interpretive staff travels throughout the state with unreleasable birds of prey to schools and events. Dwight was pleased with the honor, commenting, “It all started in my youth and my fascination with crows. There isn’t a more intelligent bird.” While my birder friend may insist on calling them a murder, he has some dissenters. Not all ornithologists agree with the title. Poets have been using the term since the 15th century, alluding to the crow’s traditional association with violent death and harsh, raucous cries. It may be time to come up with a replacement. Some ornithologists see the term feeding the public a negative outlook. “They aren’t a gang of nasty villains. These birds are just birds!” Watch for crows this winter, at the feeder, along roads, announcing their presence. We’re better off living with and admiring these clever avian residents. 

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 47

Visit MORGANTOWN

ANTIQUES CO-OP 129 W. Washington St. • Morgantown, IN 46160 (In the old hardware store building)

Furniture, Art Architectural Elements Pottery The Odd and Unusual and A General Line

Country Primitives Advertising Antique Garden Old Paint Early Smalls

Like us on Facebook

Open 6 Days (Closed Mon.) (812) 597-4530 Layaway Available

Grandpa Jeff’s

TRAIL RIDES TRAIL RIDES, Pony Rides, Hay Rides, & Custom Excursions Relax on a journey with Grandpa Jeff. Take in the scenery and wildlife. No two rides will ever be the same —sunny summer days, fall colors, winter snowfalls, spring blossoms. Grandpa Jeff trained our horses to take exceptional care of your family and friends of all ages.

Reservations by phone AT LEAST TWO HOUR NOTICE call or text (812) 272-0702 5889 S. Skinner Rd. Morgantown, IN www.GrandpaJeffsTrailRides.com • info@GrandpaJeffsTrailRides.com

10 miles north of Nashville on scenic State Road 135

ART Beyond Crayons Creativity beyond the classroom Pick your • Art Lessons for All Ages Palette: • Group Painting Parties

• Birthday Paint Parties • Home Schooled Instruction

Judy D. Wells • owner, K–12 Licensed Educator • judydenisewells@gmail.com 59 S. Marion St. • Morgantown, IN • (317) 403-7147 Flexible hours including weekends and evenings

48 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

Across from the entrance to the BROWN COUNTY MUSIC CENTER located inside

www.seasonslodge.com w.seasonslodge.c 812-988-2284

Hotel & Event Center

Wine Tastings Daily Award-Winning Wines Live Music Fri. & Sat. 6–9 pm Indoor & Patio Seating

S. Van Buren & Washington, Nashville IN

812.988.8500

countryheritagewinery.com

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 49

Artist Kurt Eagleman addressing the crowd gathered at the mural dedication in November. photo by Cindy Steele

Nature Inspires, Bridge Gets a New Look W ~by Jeff Tryon

hile Nashville’s Salt Creek Trail provides a nature walk along the creek from the intersection of state roads 46 and 135 to the YMCA, it also passes under the state highway’s big concrete bridge. Everyone who uses the trail would agree the bridge was the least attractive part of the walk—until now. The Nashville Arts and Entertainment Commission wanted to see more public art around town. They were in talks with local artist Kurt Eagleman about painting a mural in town on the side of the Heritage Mall when the idea of a mural under the bridge came up. Funding was available through a grant from the Indiana Destination Development Corporation, a group supporting public art grants through the

50 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

state. The Brown County Community Foundation also helped make the project happen. “It was a real community effort from two great organizations in the community who want to beautify and better our community,” said Eagleman. “Only three of these matching grants were given out in the state, and we were lucky enough to be selected.” With funding in hand, and the location in mind, the young artist drafted and submitted the design inspired by the nature that surrounds the Salt Creek Trail and the wildlife that makes Brown County special. Eagleman felt the underneath of the old bridge looked “dingy and derelict,” so he wanted to take it in the opposite direction with a design that was bright, cheerful, and colorful.

photos by Cindy Steele

“Since this is a trail for sports and families, I thought it should be something exciting and invigorating while you were out on the trail,” he said. “I wanted to make sure to include big bright shapes and colors but also small details that you would notice, maybe not everything at once, but something different every time. “I also wanted to make sure that we included some teachable moments, so each of the sections feature a predator/prey interaction. As you walk through the mural it moves from dawn, midday, dusk, to evening. It’s my stylistic approach to a holistic ecosystem and the nature that surrounds us. “It’s the intersection between art and nature that makes Brown County such a special and unique place, and different than the rest of Indiana,” Eagleman said. “We also have such a strong sense of community, where people want the best for each other and for the town. I feel really lucky to be born

and raised here and even more honored to come back and add something back to the beauty and what makes this town so special and unique.” His father, Jim Eagleman, was the Brown County State Park naturalist for 40 years and gave him a great appreciation for nature which influences his artwork. Kurt said he has always been interested in art, but only started pursuing it full time in the fallout of the pandemic, which he said “caused a cosmic shift” towards only pursuing things that were going to be fulfilling. He fell into doing murals as a way to generate an income. Getting to beautify and help shape the town and community that he loves is just a bonus. This was his third mural in town. The other ones are on the side of the Mulberry Cottage, and on the side of the Heritage Mall. Eagleman said he is completely self-taught with this type of artwork, but he learned the basics from online educational videos. Continued on 52

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 51

courtesy photos

NATURE INSPIRES continued from 51 “The rest is just on-the-job training,” he said. “It’s a big production and lots of moving parts, including materials and equipment, so you need to make sure you have a plan each day or it can be completely overwhelming. Especially if it’s just you or a small crew. It has been a great lesson in getting everything in order before I start and taking the time to do it right.” He said the project has forced him to get better at patience and organization, two things he’s not particularly great at. Eagleman counts himself lucky to have had fantastic art teachers in the community growing up, in particular Patty Rhoden Bartels, who helped shape his understanding of impressionist painting. This really sparked an interest and pushed him into starting to paint. “I love the rich history of art in our community,” he said. “We were once a thriving art destination, and I like to think we still are, and will be in the future. For my mural in the Heritage Mall alleyway, I was very much influenced by our history. In fact that entire mural is a sort of depiction of how Brown County

52 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

came to be an artist colony and what some of the locals thought about these outside artists. I feature some the works of Gustav Baumann and Frank Hohenberger.” Eagleman will be taking time this winter to focus on creating more work, doing lots of art projects he has put off since starting the murals. He hopes to get some of his artwork into one of the local art galleries and is considering applying for an artist residency to further develop his craft. He has an art studio in town, where he paints and does different projects other than large scale murals. “I am staying here in Brown County and go back and forth between here and New York City, where my partner lives,” Eagleman said. “We love to have both the country and city as sources of inspiration and feel like we have the best of both worlds: the excitement and vastness of the city and close sense of community and serenity of nature we have here in Brown County.” 

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Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 53

BROWN COUNTY RECYCLES Brown County Solid Waste Managment District Director Phil Stephens.

~byJulia Pearson

“R

educe, reuse, recycle” is an oft-repeated environmental slogan, and for many it is a resolution for the New Year. Since 1999, the Brown County Recycle Center has been a community resource for information and on-site recycling and trash collection. This vital service Is 76% funded through tax revenues for the Brown County Solid Waste Management District, primarily from property taxes. The remaining budget is funded through the sale of the collected recycled materials, donations, plus trash sales. Phil Stephens has been director of the Brown County Solid Waste Managment District for the last ten years. A birthright Hoosier and graduate of Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business, he previously worked for Fortune 500 corporations. He and his wife, Marie, reside in northern Brown County. Stephens sums up: “I believe it is every individual’s responsibility to be good stewards of the environment, both in and outside of their communities.”

54 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

The center is located at 176 Old State Road 46 in Nashville and the building is shared by the Brown County Highway Department. Outside recycle bins are available 24 hours a day through the week, but are closed Friday at 3 p.m. for weekends, and holidays. Trash can be dropped off during regular office hours Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for $2 per bag. Payment (cash or check) can be made in the office or bags can be tagged with trash stickers purchased in advance. Satellite locations of outdoor recycle bins are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year-round: Helmsburg Elementary School, 5378 Helmsburg School Road; Sprunica Elementary School, 3611 Sprunica Road; Van Buren Elementary School, 4045 State Road 135 South; CordrySweetwater, 8377 Cordry Drive (next to the Conservancy Office); and the Parks & Recreation Complex, West End of Nashville in Deer Run Park.

photos by Cindy Steele

In the report to the community published in 2022, gross collection intake had increased 7.4% from the previous year to 763.41 tons. A business pick-up program in and around Nashville includes: the IGA, Brown County Inn, Speedway, Dunham Plumbing, Hard Truth Distilling Co., BP Gas Station, McDonald’s restaurant, and the Law Enforcement Center. The IGA was the largest single recycler in 2022, supplying approximately 25% of the total annual intake. Individual bins are designated for the following: CARDBOARD should be clean and dry when it is placed in the designated bins. It will be recycled into new cardboard, partition board, and paper grocery bags primarily at the Eaton Paper Mills. GLASS BOTTLES & CONTAINERS from food, beverages, and vitamin supplements. Items must be rinsed clean before depositing in the bins. It will be recycled into fiberglass, commercial carpeting, and other glass products in Edon, North Carolina with Mohawk Industries. PLASTICS accepted for recycling have the universal recycling symbol with the numbers: #1, #2, #4, #5 and #6. In this category are clear or transparent colored bottles, clamshell containers,

containers that are used for milk, soap, laundry detergent, yogurt, and cottage cheese, egg cartons. Remove lids and crush to save space. Plastics are recycled into plastic pellets for general manufacturing, carpet padding, and new plastics products, with a path to Mohawk Industries and Nypro Kanaack in Alabama. PAPER clean and dry, and includes office paper, newspapers, magazines, and catalogues. It is parlayed into other paper products such as office paper, toilet paper, paper towels, and facial tissue by Kimberly Clark, Owensboro, Kentucky. SCRAP METAL copper, brass, steel, iron, and aluminum items must fit in the appropriate bins. Clean aluminum foil can be recycled. Continued on 57

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 55

Your Trusted LOCAL MORTGAGE LENDER As a local mortgage lender who lives and works in Nashville, I understand the area and would love to help finance your next home, vacation home or investment property! Contact me today to learn more! Tracy J. Landis Loan OfficerNMLS #256205 Office: 317-658-5933

tracyl@fairwaymc.com www.landisloanpro.com 91 West Mound Street Nashville, IN 47448

Copyright©2022 Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. NMLS#2289. 4750 S. Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718, 1-866-912-4800. Restrictions and limitations may apply. All rights reserved. Equal Housing Opportunity. FW1790703

56 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

BROWN CO. RECYCLES continued from 55 APPLIANCES are also accepted during regular business hours. There is a $20 Freon removal fee for items that contain Freon: freezers, water coolers, dehumidifiers, and refrigerators. INK & TONER CARTRIDGES for printers and copiers are accepted in the office only during regular business hours. In 2022, cardboard made up 49.9% of the total intake by weight, with metal cans/scrap metal 10%, paper products 8%, plastics 7.7%, glass 28.2%, and 1% miscellaneous. Items NOT handled by Brown County Recycle Center include: Plastic shopping bags, which can be returned to stores. Expired and unused medications are collected at the sheriff’s office. Usable clothing can be donated to the St. Vincent DePaul Society and the Community Closet. Blankets and towels may be donated to the Brown County Humane Society. Hardback and paperback books and magazines can be donated to public libraries for their book sales. Because yard waste can release methane when it doesn’t have enough oxygen to decompose, it is prohibited from landfills by state law. Throughout the year, special events are sponsored at the Recycle Center for collection of electronics, tires of any size; and for paper shredding. If recycling is not available when traveling, bring plastic bottles and carry-out containers home for recycling. What looks like small climate-related acts can be cues to others to make the environment a priority in their daily lives. The Washington Post recently reported on personal green actions: “Scientists have observed that what we do and don’t do are profoundly influenced by how others act.” For more information about recycling in Brown County, special event dates in 2024, and the Adopta-Road Program, call the Brown County Recycle Center at 812-988-0140, and bookmark their website: <browncountyrecycles.org>. 

Helmsburg GENERAL STORE

Owners: Sharon & Leonard Richey

Pizza & Wings, Groceries, Ice Large Selection Domestic/Craft Beer & Wine Tobacco Products Camping Supplies, Live Bait & Tackle Hunting & Fishing Licenses Check Station, Firewood State Road 45 and Helmsburg Road Intersection • (812) 929-7797

THE FIREPLACE CENTER

Complete line of: • Wood Stoves and Inserts • Gas Stoves and Inserts • Fireplaces Your first step to Energy INDEPENDENT LIVING 812-336-2053 1-800-344-3967

1210 W. 2nd St. Bloomington BloomingtonFireplaces.com

Brownie’s Featuring some of your old favorites and some tasty new ones Dine In or Carry Out

5730 N State Rd 135 • Bean Blossom • 812-720-3743 Daily Specials • Breakfast till 2:00 7 am to 8 pm • closed Thursdays Owners Paul and Tania Lattimore

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 57

Brown County Getaways HOTEL NASHVILLE

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More Public Art

BROOKS RUN CABIN

Look what just sprung up on the side of the Nashville House. Art by Patricia Rhoden Bartels.

58 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

Looking for a new tattoo or piercing? Our goal at Redbird Tattoo is to bring high quality tattoos and luxury body piercing with a safe, clean environment, to the heart of Brown County, Indiana. Whether you’re here to express yourself through body art, to shop at Rusty Nova Boutique and Garage, or to view our fine art gallery—all are welcome inside. SCAN FOR MORE INFO

812-322-0555 • REDBIRDTATTOO23@GMAIL.COM @REDBIRDNASHVILLE 51 E. CHESTNUT ST. UNIT 3 • NASHVILLE, IN 47448 Salt Creek Plaza, behind McDonald’s, next to Family Dollar

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 59

INFO PAGES

• Individual Income and Business Taxes • Business Set Up • Business Financial Statements • Payroll Preparation and Payroll Taxes

Locally owned since 2010 138 S. Jefferson St. Suite C • P.O. Box 953 Nashville, IN 47448

ACCOUNTING / TAX PREP

ACCOUNTING & PAYROLL

60 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

Plum Creek Antiques Open-Air Market Bean Blossom • Fruit Jars • Garden Art • Furniture • Iron Things, • Lots of Junk and more 5 minutes north of Nashville (intersection of SR 135 & SR 45) (812) 988-6268

$2 Bag • Salt Creek Plaza • Nashville Mon.–Sat. 7:30 am–7:00 pm, Sun 10:00 am–4:00 pm

AUTO - TIRE, REPAIR, TOW

& ASSOCIATES INC. Tax Preparation, Tax Planning, Bookkeeping, and Payroll

(812) 988-2865

bruce1040@sbcglobal.net 64 W. Gould St. • P.O. Box 565 • Nashville, IN

Brown County Tire TIRE &

AUTO Repair

24 hr. Wrecker Service

812-988-8473

27 Salt Creek Rd (Intersection SR 46) Nashville

BROWN

COUNTY

Alice Waltermire AKC Evaluator

group and private training 760-992-6043

awaltermire@yahoo.com www.browncountyK9.com Facebook: BCK9 AKC Fit Dog Club meets twice weekly

EYE CARE

BAGGED TRASH DROP OFF

ANTIQUES

812-318-1356 • www.bonafidebites.com

DOG TRAINING

CHEF-CATERING

(812) 988-4031 • www.precisebooksandpayroll.com

ZIEG LeDOUX

Checking eyes in Brown County for over 50 years!

50 Willow Street • Nashville, IN 812-988-4937

INFO PAGES

Jan./Feb. 2024 • Our Brown County 61 Continued on 62

Indiana Seamless Free Estimates

Gutter Cleaning and Leaf Cover Available

Matt Hunter

HEALTH

GUTTERING

GUTTERING 812-344-4167

Quality Workmanship since 1992 Fully Insured

Board Certified Family Practice Behavioral Health Services Accepting new patients. Same day appointments. Pay with cash/credit card/debit card/insurance

LANDSCAPING

HEALTH CARE

Lawrence Sanchez, MD

Nashville, IN • 812-200-8265

We Can Do It All!

Complete Landscaping/ Design Services

www.blueelkfamilyclinic.com • Check us out on Facebook

INSURANCE

HEALTH & LIVING

• Mulching - Seeding NEED HELP? • Weeding - Pruning • Tree / Shrub Planting • Fences - Walkways • Retaining Walls • Mowing / Trimming (812) 988-7232 • Flower / Herb Beds

Are you on Medicaid & Medicare? Do you have a chronic condition and need better health coverage?

Call Christy today to see how she can help! Serving all of Indiana (812) 758-7355

TIM RUPP • More than 25 years experience

4413 State Road 46 East Nashville, IN (Gnaw Bone) Next to House of Thunder

YOUR CATEGORY

TATTOO

christy@mcginleyinsurance.com www.mcginleyinsurance.com

(812) 988-4054

• Medicare Supplement • Medicare Advantage • Prescription p Drugg Plans

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE for information on all options.

Your Ad Can Appear Here

Reach thousands of readers for just $70 an issue (6 a year)

(discounts for multiple issues)

Contact Cindy at ourbrown@bluemarble.net or call 812-988-8807

Continued from 61

INFO PAGES

BLUE ELK FAMILY CLINIC Mental Health Counseling

Your Brown County Experts

Misty Sanchez LMHC-A and Mr. Bojangles

REAL ESTATE

MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING

62 Our Brown County • Jan./Feb. 2024

Marg DeGlandon

Sterling Minor

Call or walk in to schedule appt. • 812-200-8265

CSSS, CDPR Broker/Owner 812-360-4083 margd@remax.net

www.blueelkfamilyclinic.com • Check us out on Facebook

812-988-4485 • www.2LiveInBrownCounty.com

10 Artist Drive P.O. Box 1609 Nashville, IN 47448

Broker 812-720-1177 sterlingminor812@yahoo.com

Tune in to your community!

ART

RADIO

One-of-a-kind Designs

Listen at 103.7 FM or stream at wfiu.org

Available at Spears Gallery in Nashville, IN South Van Buren Street next to the Nashville House 812-988-1286

RECORDING - STREAMING

RADIO

91.3 FM South Central Indiana • 98.1 FM downtown Bloomington 100.7 FM Nashville • 106.3 FM Ellettsville Also stream wfhb.org • 812-323-1200

Home of The Stream each Friday night on Facebook and YouTube

Full service content creation and live streaming studio

RainwaterRecordingCompany.com RainwaterRecordingCompany@gmail.com

All Types of SIGNS by CHRIS A. SHUSTER

BROWN COUNTY YMCA FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FOR HEALTHY LIVING FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

BUY 1 GUEST PASS, GET 1 FREE 1 per person, expires 12/31/24

Swimming Pool Fitness Center Gymnasium Exercise Classes

Personal Training Swim Lessons Day Camp Climbing Wall

812-988-9622 • www.browncountyymca.org

SIGN MAKER

WELLNESS

Open 5:30 am Mon.–Fri., Sat. 7:00 am

• HOMES • BANNERS • BILLBOARDS • STORE FRONTS

BOATS • TRUCKS • MURALS • LOGO DESIGN •

SIGNS THAT DELIVER: Digital Print & Vinyl to Hand Lettered, Carved & Gilded

812-822-2933 • RamblinDogDesign@gmail.com

NO SALT.

PLENTY OF

FLAVOR.

Along with our traditional handmixed spice blends, nearly 100 of our blends are salt-free! Gourmet Jams & Sauces • Mustards • Hot Sauces Artisan Salts & Sugars • Beekman 1802 • Kitchen Gifts & Accessories Scan to Shop! nashvillespicecompany.com In Coachlight Square • 227 S. Van Buren St. • Nashville, IN 47448 • 812.200.1069

WINTER HOURS: SUN - THUR 10:00 - 5:00 FRI - SAT 10:00 - 6:00 Old Fashioned Fudge Gourmet Popcorn Ice Cream Homemade Confections

So much more than fudge! Sign Up Save 15%

NashvilleFudgeKitchen.com 175 S. Van Buren St. Nashville, IN 47448 812.988.0709

Corporate Gifts Wedding Favors Custom Gifts

Jan./Feb. 2024 OUR BROWN COUNTY

Articles inside

Field Notes: Crows

Being a Volunteer Firefighter

Musings: Souvenirs

Rivers and Roads

The Cliffords

BROWN COUNTY RECYCLES

Nature Inspires, Bridge Gets a New Look