The Rushville Truth

Reader Submitted Story

I wanted to know if you could answer some questions for me or put it out to your readers to see if they can. I was driving home from work the other day and I passed a house just north of Milroy. In the driveway was the RMH Ambulance with its lights flashing. Parked on the street and blocking the drive was the Milroy Ambulance with its lights flashing. That got me to wondering several things.

First, if Milroy is no longer dispatched by 911, then how did they know of the run and why did they go on it? Or if the homeowner called Milroy directly, then who notified RMH to go on the run?

The Milroy ambulance blocking the RMH Ambulance reminded me of the scene in Gangs of New York where the competing fire departments literally fist fought over who was able to put out the fire to the point where one person covered a hydrant and they allowed the building to burn while they beat each other up. So is this how the southern part of the County is not working? Did the Milroy Ambulance park like it did to prevent the RMH Ambulance from transporting the patient?

More questions came to mind like, when both ambulances show up, does the patient get charged for both? Who gets to transport the patient? If RMH does not transport, do we the taxpayers still pay for the run without the chance of collecting the money?

It seems like there are some major issues south of town, and as a taxpayer and local business owner, I think I deserve answers to these questions. Then there is talk of RMH taking over all ambulance service in the County, will property owners have a voice in this decision?

Thanks for your forum. I’m glad to be able to talk about topics I find important.

Reader

Censorship?

Please find another "Reader Submitted E-mail" from the mailbag. - RT

"Dear RT--

I know that there is a blogger who has made the claim on this site that their comments have been purposely deleted from the RT blog site.
 
I have no clue as to whether this is true or not, but I know that the contractive paper does apply this practice as they see fit. I am not sure what their reasoning whether it be friendships or advertising.
 
On June 23, 2009 I wrote a comment to the “For the Republican Editorial” published 6/22/09 entitled “Planning is important part of development process.” I was very careful how I worded the comment, making sure to not use questionable language and be respectful of all involved. This obviously this did not promote the message that the screener wanted portrayed.

I want someone to publish my version of “truth”.  Would you please publish my story comment since someone didn’t think it was fit to publish?  Thank you.

“Wait a second, in the third paragraph Mr. Buening and his bosses are taking credit for "gazing into THEIR crystal balls and compiling land" the populous should know that these decisions that were made not by Mr. Buening or any one the present board. It was made by a Mayor and young group who appeared to have been wise beyond their years. They risked much of their political futures to introduce change into this community. Change we obviously weren't really ready for. I must say I am proud to have served with them and feel their efforts need to be credited.
 
I agree with Paul Barada Sr. column, were he said we have become care-takers and reactionary. Mr. Buening can wax poetically about his role or that of his board, but only a column does not justify an existence.
 
The ECDC is beginning to run the risk of becoming just another local self-promoting organization. Would the time and effort used presently to promote the board and his position be better spent simply promoting OUR community?

Chris“
 
What questions do YOU have?

California Kid

Most of the emails that come to the site are sprinkled with morsels of information about things that I am sure are true but maybe not able to be proved. Some are very insightful but not able to be posted directly to the site. Some are people who have had bad employment or business dealings and would like to vent. The following email was a simple expression of support from someone who loved his hometown. Even while living in California, he stays in touch and even longs for REAL change.

This person emailed to the site’s email address, and with his permission, I am posting the story. I chose to hide his identity – he did not request it. I know the witch hunt involved in my identity, why would I have the CEO’s after him too.

"Hello, I am not sure why I am writing this, or sending it, but here you go.

My name is ________. I am a former Rushville resident. I have been living in California since I graduated RCHS in 1984. I just wanted to send you a quick little note to let you know that I enjoy reading the articles on your site. I used to, and still do (on occasion), get some of the local updates via the Rushville Republican web-site. They never seemed to enjoy hearing my opinions. Your site is much more interesting to me. I enjoy reading the edgier side of things that you post. My life since leaving “MY HOME” of Rushville has given me many opportunities and have provided me with many things learned in life. Through it all, I have learned one thing and that is to “always tell the truth”. Your site seems to do that and I like it. Something I feel the people of that town need and deserve.

Upon my many returns to “MY HOME” of Rushville I have noticed one thing. “IT NEVER CHANGES” it seems to only regress. I actually believe it is more primitive than it was when I lived there. That is sad to me, because I think that I grew up in the greatest place in the USA. I really have had thoughts of wanting to raise my children back there and even moving back just to live. I enjoy the thought of raising a family in a town like Rushville, but NOT with the type of business, and industry there. It frustrates me that all the other cities and towns around Rush County have progressed and modernized themselves and the great people of Rushville have to drive to their cities to support their economy. Rushville just slides deeper into a dilapidated state.

When I drove through downtown a year ago, when I had to come home to attend the funeral of the greatest man I ever knew “__________”. I thought to myself that the only thing this town needs to fix it is a bulldozer. With the exception of a couple of buildings to which I thing have great character. I see tremendous potential, but zero drive in that town and that saddens me.

I don’t understand why the people of that great town do not demand more from their city council members and the folks running it, I would. It is too great of a town NOT to give back to the great people of “MY HOME, RUSHVILLE INDIANA”. I don’t like how that town is stuck in the past and not grabbing hold of their future.

Anyway, keep up the good work, and I like what I see from your side of the paper."

Sometimes no matter what you write or how much proof is afforded the reader, this site is faced with an exclusive group of individuals who commit their resources to challenging this blog site.  After reading this, it all seems pretty clear and simple.

Questions:

1. Wouldn’t you bet that those who hate this site the most have the most to hide?

2. How does this person who moved away opinion differ from that of those still residing here?

3. How do you build on this new insight?

4. Does the common man have a say in the community-really?

5. Will we ever regain our community?

Truth Reader Contributed Article

Well, I seem to have some very concerned readers. This one is worth posting (unedited, of course)... I thought it would initiate some thought processes. - RT

 

"I recently had an unfortunate experience and wanted to let the citizens of Rushville know about it. I recently contacted a local public official to complain about a neighbor with a junk car parked in our alley. The car has been there for over a year. It does not have a license plate on it, and it has not moved in that time. In addition, the windows of the car have been rolled down so it has been rained and snowed on, and now appears to be a habitat for animals.

I told this official that I did not want my name used because I wanted to try to maintain neighborhood harmony. He said he would not mention my name and that he would tell the appropriate folks to look into it. Well less than a week later, as I am walking into my house, my neighbor yells at me to mind my own business. When I ask him why, he says that he does not appreciate me going to the authorities to tell them about his car. He said he was told it was me and that he will make sure I obey the rules as well. It has been a month since I talked to the official, the car has not been removed, and I am concerned about my neighbor’s comments. We never had a great relationship, but it was cordial. Now it is very icy and I worry that something may happen to my property.

I do not want to complain on this official for fear of what they may do next and I am not even sure if it was him or if it was who he talked to, but I wanted to let others know to be careful to who they talk to when they have complaints.

Obviously I do not want my name used in this letter, for obvious reasons, so I will just sign it…

Now I understand why by anonymous is the only way in a small town.

Concerned Citizen "

Reader Submitted Question

Another reader submitted letter. (You all are asking some really good questions!) - RT

"Dear RT,

I have a question about the ambulance service. It is my understanding that we have two ambulances on duty most, if not all the time. These ambulances are to cover the middle third of the County. So if this is the case, why are they almost always stationed in Rushville and seem to be within feet of each other? I drive by the fire station, eating establishments, or hospital and both ambulances are parked in the parking lot. First it would seem that if these ambulances are to cover the area of Rush County from Manilla to Glenwood, then maybe one of both should be located closer to those towns. The 15 minutes it takes to run out to Glenwood or Manilla could prove detrimental to the health of someone injured in an accident. Shouldn’t these taxpayers have equal access to the ambulance service they pay for?

Next, why would both ambulances be at lunch at the same time? Stores do not let their employees all take lunch at the same time. Why should our Ambulance Service? EMS services talk about the golden hour and how seconds matter in an emergency. If someone is in need of medical services on the south end of town, or out on the extreme east or west ends of the County and the ambulance crews are both eating lunch at Subway, how much longer does it take them to get out of the restaurant, get in their ambulances and get to the accident? The minutes involved could make a life for death difference. And if a train happens to be going through Rushville, as they more frequently are, and traffic is backed up on the main roads, how much more time is lost?  Or is this where the helicopter comes into play?

I feel at least one ambulance should be parked in either Homer or out by the county garage east of town. Really, to be fair, one should be parked in each location, but I am sure the city would complain about a perceived loss of coverage. If not, then there should be a requirement that one be located at the hospital and one located at the fire station. That way, they cover either side of town and they would not be stuck on the wrong side of the tracks as can happen now. I would hate to have to pay $10,000 for a helicopter ride because of both ambulances being on the wrong side of the tracks. And no matter what else, they should not be allowed to take meals and hang out together. We the tax payer are paying them to work and staggering lunch should not be too much of an inconvenience.

Sincerely,
Concerned"

Reader Submitted Question

The following was sent to me by a truth reader.  I thought it had some validity and thought I would share. - RT

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I read with interest your blog on heavy trash pick up.  But it was some of the responses that got me thinking.  It was mentioned that the crews do this as part of their normal collection rounds.  But I got to thinking it must be more than that.  I have noticed some large and bulky items like an old treadmill, box springs and a console TV.  These are things that I cannot imagine would fit on a regular trash truck.  So is the City also running a route with a dump truck or pickup trucks on a daily basis to pick up these bulky items?  It would seem that this is using men and fuel that could be used for other more important purposes.

Another issue I have thought about is the way the random heavy trash route makes the City look.  I have always disliked the piles of trash that sit out the weeks of heavy trash pickup.  It really does not leave a good impression for those driving through Rushville.  Save us if a visitor actually drives down the alleys.  I can tolerate it as a necessary evil a couple times a year and only lasting a couple of weeks at a time.  Now as I drive around town I can only imagine what visitors think.  Piles of trash and debris sit out in the weather and wind days before the heavy trash pick up.  Couches, tires, piles of clothe among other items.  It really gives the City a trashy look.  Fortunately much of it is located in alleys, but some is located within sight of our main streets.  

Concerned Citizen

Fall-Fest - Santa-Fest?

Back on Sept. 27, the Rush County Chamber of Commerce sponsored another Rushfest in downtown Rushville. This year's great fall extravaganza featured a parade (yes, it went down Morgan Street--2008 will be remembered as the year of the back-door parade), vendor booths set up downtown, an art exhibit, and a scarecrow contest, among other events.

The Rushville Truth posted an article that leaned in the direction of being positive, but I thought that people should know the concerns that were voiced in the “coffee shops” after the event.

The parade, organized by the always-capable George and Sandra Coons, went off quite well. There were many enthusiastic participants, and many excited observers. There was one unfortunate accident during the parade, but thankfully, the young man who was injured has nearly fully recovered.

A scarecrow contest? You mean, those scarecrows tied to the lamps downtown were supposed to be for a contest? Apparently, yes. I am not sure how many groups or individuals actually created scarecrows to be displayed and judged, but from those I have spoken to, no one saw any judging going on the day of the event, as they were led to believe would happen, and no one has as of yet been notified who won this contest. If you or your group won, please let me know, so I can let the community know. I am sure this was just an oversight.

How about all those vendors that were downtown? Third Street was even closed, from Morgan to Perkins, to accommodate vendors who would not fit along the sidewalks of Main, from the courthouse to the railroad tracks. Just how many vendors packed the sidewalks and side streets? Oh, 15 or so? On Third Street, there was a Pizza Hut trailer, a Park Restaurant smoker, and ..... as I recall, I think that was it. Several of the vendors who were located on Main Street have grumbled about their booth locations. There seemed to be some confusion whether venders who requested electricity had access to that electricity. The fact that the booth locations where not posted until late Friday afternoon added to the confusion. Not only that, spaces were not the size vendors had been told to expect, but the vendors of similar wares were positioned right next to one another even placed side-by-side. The involvement of people in local events appears to have waned and local events of nature appear to struggle with coordination and responsible parties.

Perhaps it was the cold, gray, windy weather that kept the children's entertainment away that day, as the local paper had advertised, "...children’s inflatable games and crafts." Unfortunately, the weather also kept most of the foot traffic away as well. It certainly didn't keep the regular traffic from flying up and down Main as it usually does (at times, perilously close to the vendors on the sidewalk), those who decided to park directly in front of the vendors, or the children who were darting across Main Street unattended. The Chamber director and assistant were seen buzzing about a couple of times, and LO AND BEHOLD!!!! I do believe it was the first time the mayor was seen at a community event this year! He made a quick circuit and left.

Thanks for shopping downtown Rushville! Probably the best thing about the entire event was the wonderful entertainment in the gazebo. Kudos to the brave folks who performed there.

All in all, it was this type of event, unfortunately, that the community has been producing more and more often of late. Why do I bring this up now? In the local paper, a story ran that noted that this Friday is "Christmas on Main" sponsored by the Heart of Rushville. I really thought the group no longer existed, but the purpose of the event appears to be to bringing Santa into downtown in his own, albeit short, parade, with some vendors, caroling. I truly hope that this event comes off well. I hope that this community is making a true effort to turn the corner.

Sometimes it appears that we have clearly competitive community events (“Ssshhhhh if we don’t say it out loud it isn’t really happening”). So, does that mean that different groups don’t participate or promote certain events due to who is organizing the event?

Should all organizations, be focused on supporting and improving our community? Can’t we all just work together? Are these events for the business and the children? Let's just hope by the time Santa arrives, he brings the Christmas spirit with him, and runs the Grinch out of town.

Now, your favorite part of the story-questions:

1. So, who DID win the scarecrow contest?-I GIVE
2. How did the “mini fair queen competition go?
3. Can you truly have competing community events - if they are competing events, how are they community events?
4. Now that John McCane is no longer the chair of the Republican Party does this free up time for him to be Santa?
5. How should Rushville reimburse Santa this year....sugar cookies, chamber bucks or AIG stock?
6. Are coordinating local events always going to be an issue? Are these issues a real concern or just the nature of the beast?
7. Will Santa still be listening to the wishes of the little ones in his house on Saturday mornings?
8. Who's your top pick for Rushville Grinch of the Year?

Can Of Worms?

The reader contributions just keep coming in! See below for the latest truth-seeker letter, and as always, it appears as it was submitted and without edit. - RT

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"Dear Rushville Truth,

I belong to a local organization that is very involved in the community. Like many not-for-profits, we struggle, but we never turn down an opportunity to do something for our town.

Currently, we inhabit a building in the historic district of downtown Rushville that is in incredibly bad shape. There's $30,000 worth of work to remove mold in the basement, which also turns into a swimming pool every time it rains. The mold subsequently causes problems to our members and we are unable to hold meetings downstairs because sinus problems, headaches and coughing immediately set in. Add that on top of the fact that the building is not even conducive to our needs and you have a giant albatross.

So, I was extremely discouraged to read that the county commissioners are about to spend $250,000 to tear down the old Moscow school, which they deep a hazard to the community. I was also discouraged to learn that this school was recently purchased by a private citizen who was going to turn it into a business.

I write this, not to complain or ask "Where's Mine?", but rather to bring attention to the Pandora’s box you are about to open. Why is it feasible for you to tear down businesses owned by private citizens (who don't have insurance?), rather than to help organizations in your own backyard with hazardous buildings that actually give back to our community?

Sincerely submitted,

Anonymous"

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It has been brought to my attention that the demolition price was actually $91,000 and NOT the $250,000 mentioned by the author above. I have the same fact checker that the local newspaper does.  Sorry!  - RT

A Letter from Councilman McGowan

I got this in my e-mail box yesterday (10/07/08) from Councilman Darrin McGowan, District 2, requesting that his letter to the editor be published in it's entirety for the readers to enjoy.  Read on, truth-seekers:

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To the Citizens of Rushville,
 
I do not take pleasure in writing this letter, however I feel it is my duty as an elected official to make you, the citizens of Rushville, aware of heavy handed efforts and threatening tactics that are being leveled by Mayor Merv Bostic.  I feel it is my obligation to write this letter because innocent people and a city facility have come under threat. 
 
After the council meeting on Sept. 16, 2008, Mayor Bostic and I had a very heated disagreement. Although the topic was not on the agenda, the Mayor recommended the appointment of an individual for the city’s Historic Board.  During discussion, the council learned that the individual, although I’m sure very qualified, did not meet the residency requirements of the law, and therefore could not be lawfully appointed to the position.  After the meeting had adjourned, Mayor Bostic threatened that if I didn’t, “stop what I am doing, then the Amphitheater is going to be in trouble!”  I could not believe my ears!  Because I was doing the people’s work and upholding my oath of office, the Amphitheater and the Concert Series would take the consequences?

Many of you may or may not know that I, along with many other volunteers, serve on the Riverside Park Amphitheater Board. We do so for the love of the park and to help, in some small way, to build to the quality of life for the entire Rush County Community through the outstanding free concerts this venue has to offer.  Further, the Concert Series brings people to Rushville from all over.  I’m sure these people buy gas and food and drink while they’re in town. It’s sad to think all this could be jeopardized because I was fulfilling my duty.

Of course, this is not the first time Mayor Bostic has levied threats against people who carry a difference of opinion.  Jim Huston, former Historic Board Member, spoke out against the Mayor when Rushville had the Water Boil Advisory in May of 2008. This triggered a response from Mayor Bostic in the form of his own Letter to the Editor, which he stated, “And to you Mr. Huston, if you find this administration so intolerable, then maybe you should remove yourself from its shadow, lest you be tainted by it. I call for your resignation from the Rushville Historic Board.” (Rushville Republican, May 12, 2008). When Mr. Huston refused to resign, the Mayor went on a “seek-and-destroy mission” to ultimately get him “removed”; which he did. Joe Rathz was another casualty of this administration for similar reasons. His willingness to speak up against wrong-doings cost him his seat on the Historic Board. Please note, both these gentlemen were passionate about the Historic Board and were unpaid volunteers.

If the mayor chooses to fulfill his threat and shut down the Amphitheater, will it hurt me? Absolutely!  Because the mayor can not fire me, he is obviously wise enough to go after something for which I am passionate. Yet in his efforts to hurt me, there are a great number of other people who will suffer.  Whether it’s through the free concert series, private rentals, or just enjoying the beauty of the park itself, each and every citizen who enjoys listening to music under the stars will be punished too. 
 
His threats are an affront to every citizen in Rushville.  I just could not stand for that.  I contemplated not writing this letter.  Yet I knew that if I did not, the taxpayers would never know the reality of what’s going on, and why a popular parks facility was being neglected or even shut down.  The people have the right to know.
 
For those who might question this new found demand to be heard, please understand that I was in the past blessed with an environment that expected open communication, encouraged spirited debate and no one was forced paid the consequences if you did not agree.  I want all the citizens to know that, so far in this term, those philosophies are no longer respected.  Understand that when I was elected, I was charged with the duty to represent the voice of the people; a responsibility I take very seriously.  I take the personal responsibility and pride that I am constantly making sure that only the best is provided for this city and her people.  I fail to understand threatening to shut down a program because one council member is doing his best to perform his duty for the city.

I would like nothing more than to see this administration work together, the very concept the Mayor has accused me of not doing.  To the Mayor, I must say I disagree. He has never once asked me what I thought about issues regarding the city.  Regarding the topic of the proposed historic appointment, the Mayor thought I blindsided him to make him look stupid.  In my defense, I think it should be known that I have attempted to have various forms of dialogue with the Mayor, but all have fallen on deaf ears.  I have sent the mayor countless emails only to never receive a response.  Personally, I like email because it allows me to keep my memory fresh on the topics and I like having a paper trail.  I certainly don’t claim to know everything, but I do have the last eight years of council experience under my belt, and I believe that should count for something.  More importantly, if we are truly supposed to be partners in our efforts, shouldn’t the mayor want to keep me and the other council members involved? 

I like to listen to other people’s points of view.   I have always believed that when people talk, I should listen.  That has not happened in this administration.  Sadly, on more than one occasion, I have witnessed the mayor gavel down local citizens in public meetings because he did not want to hear their point of view.  As I stated before, I listen.  I don’t have to agree with them, but I offer them the courtesy and respect to at least hear them out.  Regardless of who is mayor, there always will be people who may disagree—hard-working, free-thinking volunteers and citizens who only wish to see Rushville prosper.   I don’t believe that gives the mayor the right to strong-arm these citizens or a free pass to “ask for their resignation” or threaten a board where they volunteer to serve.  I offer my personal thank you to all of you who take the time to volunteer. I know at times, it can be a thankless.

Therefore, I have offered my resignation to the Riverside Amphitheater Board because I do not wish to see this city jewel tarnished because of my service to the city.  In short, if the Mayor cuts funding to the Amphitheater, then I guess some will blame me.  And if indeed this happens, I want the public to know that it was because I am committed to maintaining responsible government. For me, that’s my first duty to the citizens. It’s a shame that some take office and think the citizens should serve them rather than be the public servants that the voters entrusted them to be.

Darrin McGowan
Rushville City Council

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If you have strong feelings about what the councilman has stated above, please contact the Mayor's office and express your opinion. I think our government officials should be made aware of what our opinions are.

"Turning The Page" on The Gift of a Life-Long Business?

This reader seemed to be passionate about the library move (and he/she went to a lot of work to write an article and everything!), so here it is in it's entirety! - RT

 

 

"In response to the "Library Moves Could Be A Major Move"  story....I happen to be very close to Carter Lanning, and know that he is very unhappy with the library's change of stand on using his property to renovate the current library downtown. That property, the product of his entire adult's life work, was given in good faith and in memory of his last brother. He intended the library to use his store property to help the city of Rushville, and generations of children to come, to increase the size and usefulness of the EXISTING library, which he considers a beautiful historic structure and an anchor of our downtown. He did NOT intend for them to disregard his generosity and in turn move the library to an as of yet undisclosed location.

Since rumors have been floating for some time about the Library's disregard of Mr. Lanning's gift, the Rush County Community Assistance Board approached the Library about possibly obtaining the building to use it for their food pantry. They were told by Library personnel that is was "in too bad shape, full of 'varmints' " and had at one point been used as a shelter by a homeless person!!! Well, I had been in that building not all that long ago. The back of the building, where the homeless person had been staying was fairly open and not in the best of shape, but the rest of the building, the store front itself, was in great shape. Did the library let it get in disrepair, or did they just want to discourage anyone from "scotching" their deal, as it were?  (The RCCA has since obtained the former Wilkinson Printing office)

In talking to Mr. Lanning about this, he is very, very upset. He has said if he knew the library was not going to put his property to the use intended when he turned it over, he would not have retired and given up his business when he did, but would have tried to work another year, or found a buyer for his business. From what he has said, I believe the property is fully the Rushville Public Library's, as he said it is not longer in hands. But, it does weigh heavily on his heart.

I, too, question Mr. Yazel's participation in this venture, and his new appointment to the Board, Mr. Meo, who happens to be an employee of Mr. Yazel. I hope many folks attend the meeting on Aug. 18 to get more information and make their concerns known. I don't know if Mr. Lanning will attend that meeting or not. I may attend in his stead, to represent his interests. If I do, I will let people know the feelings of a good citizen of this town, one who gave a gift in memory of a great loss, to try to do a great thing, only to have it tossed aside like..........well, ironically...............like an old worn out book.

Anonymously and respectfully submitted,
Marian the Librarian”

Got Alot of Weed!

Dear Rushville Truth,

I am a citizen of Rushville who was initially opposed to the code enforcement position. I thought this to be another intrusion of government. I have read your latest article on grading the departments and am in strong agreement with the "F" you gave code enforcement. I wasn't aware that this was in the hands of the Rushville Fire Department. I have noticed a large number of properties with weeds and trash. I have since changed my mind on having a person whose sole responsibility is to address these nuisances. I would hope that the mayor would revisit his decision to minimize this department. Weeds, trash and illegal parking may sound petty to some, but these are everyday problems that frustrate citizens. I don't pretend to know as much as some others that have posted here, but I hope the "powers that be" will listen to the common citizen. I have enclosed a few pictures for your readers to view to get an understanding of what I am talking about. Please use them if you can. I want people to see the problems I am talking about.

Thanks,

Maggie