The Batesville Leader

07/15/2024

At 628 PM EDT, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near Greensburg, or 18 miles west of Batesville, moving southeast at 20 mph. HAZARD...Winds in excess of 40 mph and half inch hail. SOURCE...Radar indicated. IMPACT...Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible. Locations impacted include... Greensburg, Adams, Milford, Westport, Millhousen, Newpoint, Letts, Burney, and Sandusky. This includes Interstate 74 between mile markers 126 and 144.

07/15/2024

UPDATE: Planning Underway to Repair the Duck Creek Aqueduct

The severe weather that struck Franklin County on July 9 damaged the Duck Creek Aqueduct in Metamora. A large tree fell and was swept down Duck Creek, directly hitting the structure's base. The Director of Communications for the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites issued the following update:

“Planning is under way to repair the Duck Creek Aqueduct, which was damaged during the storms that hit our area early last week.

Several days of heavy rain caused flooding along Duck Creek, and a large tree that was washed down the waterway crashed into and punctured the side of the aqueduct. The hole is currently acting as an open gateway for water to flow out, and as a result, the water level of Whitewater Canal has dropped significantly.

With the help of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, the tree was removed and our team completed an initial assessment of the damage. In the coming days, we will divert water away from the aqueduct and into Duck Creek, allowing us to temporarily fix the hole and restore water flow through the aqueduct and into Whitewater Canal as soon as possible. During this closure, we will also assess and plan for long-term repairs to be completed next year.

Please look for updates as the plans progress.”

07/15/2024

At 617 PM EDT, a severe thunderstorm was located over Lake Santee, or near Batesville, moving south at 25 mph. HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts and quarter size hail. SOURCE...Radar indicated. IMPACT...Hail damage to vehicles is expected. Expect wind damage to roofs, siding, and trees. Locations impacted include... Sandusky, Clarksburg, Lake Santee, Moscow, and Newpoint. This includes Interstate 74 between mile markers 136 and 143.

07/10/2024

UPDATE: Planning Under Way to Repair the Duck Creek Aqueduct

“Planning is under way to repair the Duck Creek Aqueduct, which was damaged during the storms that hit our area early last week.

Several days of heavy rain caused flooding along Duck Creek, and a large tree that was washed down the waterway crashed into and punctured the side of the aqueduct. The hole is currently acting as an open gateway for water to flow out, and as a result, the water level of Whitewater Canal has dropped significantly.

With the help of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, the tree was removed and our team completed an initial assessment of the damage. In the coming days, we will divert water away from the aqueduct and into Duck Creek, allowing us to temporarily fix the hole and restore water flow through the aqueduct and into Whitewater Canal as soon as possible. During this closure, we will also assess and plan for long-term repairs to be completed next year.

Please look for updates as the plans progress.”

Source: Carla Knapp (She/Her)
Director of Communication
Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites

***Original Story***

Metamora's Historic Aqueduct Suffers Damage During July 9 Storms

The severe weather that struck Franklin County last night damaged the historic Aqueduct in Metamora. A large tree fell and was swept down Duck Creek, directly hitting the structure's base.

Cathy Ferree, the President and CEO of the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites, informed Candy Yurcak, a resident of Metamora, about the damage early this morning. She asked Yurcak for her help spreading the word within the community and assured her that immediate action was being taken.

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources is en route to assess the damage. The aqueduct is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is the only of its kind left in the United States.

The 765 will provide updates as they become available. Additional photos can be found in the comments.

07/04/2024

Well, we waited as long as we could hoping that we had some assurance that the skies would stay clear. Unfortunately, the decision has been made to cancel the parade (and the activities afterward at Liberty Park) due to the impending thunderstorms.

We thought long and hard before making this decision but based on guidance from Ripley County Emergency Management, there is a strong likelihood that there will be thunderstorms between 11-12. The last thing we want is for people to be in danger due to lightning or to have worried parents scrambling to find their kids who are somewhere on the parade route.

If you would still like something fun to do, Back Roads (right along the parade route near the park) will still be hosting a hot dog cookout and live music so they’d love to see you there!

07/03/2024

VERSAILLES POLICE DEPARTMENT DRUG BUST

On Monday, July 1st 2024, Versailles Police Department, Marshal Joe Mann, with the assistance of Deputies from the Ripley County Sheriff’s Office, and Osgood Police Department, executed a search warrant at a residence on South High Street in Versailles, which stemmed from an ongoing drug investigation.

During the search, officers seized what they estimate to be more than 65 grams of methamphetamine, numerous paraphernalia items, and ma*****na. The following individuals were arrested and have been charged:

Leia Shianne Woody, 29-years-old female from Versailles
1. Dealing in M**h, Level 2 Felony
2. Maintaining a common nuisance, Level 6 Felony
3. Possession of Ma*****na, Class A Misdemeanor

Troy Edward Dunagan Jr, 35-years-old male from Lawrenceburg
1. Possession of M**h, Level 5 Felony
2. Visiting a common nuisance, Class A Misdemeanor
3. Possession of paraphernalia, Class C Misdemeanor

Dakoda Michael Green, 22-years-old male from Sunman
1. Possession of M**h, Level 6 Felony
2. Visiting a common nuisance, Class A Misdemeanor
3. Possession of ma*****na, Class A Misdemeanor

James Michael Hensley, 49-years-old male from Osgood
1. Possession of M**h, Level 6 Felony
2. Visiting a common nuisance, Class A Misdemeanor
3. Possession of ma*****na, Class A Misdemeanor

All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

07/02/2024

Oldenburg Academy Recognizes Outstanding Student Achievements for the 2023-24 School Year.

[Oldenburg, IN] - Oldenburg Academy is proud to announce the student accomplishments and scholarships awarded during their all-school awards ceremony.

Principal Angela Parmer, “Our awards ceremony is a culminating celebration of the academic excellence for which we strive all year. I’m blessed to work with a talented and dedicated faculty and outstanding students each day.”

OA would like to extend its congratulations to the Class of 2024 and to the following students who earned local scholarships and awards.

Julia Horning, Class of 211 Scholarship - Cecilia Scheidler
Oldenburg Freudenfest Scholarships - Avery Austin and Zach Hoff
Oldenburg Academy Alumni Association Scholarships- Clay Eckstein (Alumni Legacy), Bridgette Ehrhard, Luke Hopkins, Garrett Sohmer, Simon Nobbe
RJW Class of '41 Alumni Scholarship - Christian Mack
Kelly Munchel Scholarship - Emily Schebler
Karen Kretschmann Aspiring Educator Scholarship - Laura Dennis
Rosemary (Doll) Dierckman and Melanie Dierkman Memorial Scholarship - Bridget Lohmueller
Sr. Therese Gillman, OSF Service Scholarship - Hailey Hoffman
Perfect Attendance - 1 year - Ellen Swain
Top Twisters - GPA of 4.0 or higher after fall semester of each school year -
9th Grade: Avery Austin, Lydia Ehrhard, Madison Hamilton, Ryan Hautman, William Hollander, Alexandra Nobbe, Simon Nobbe, Clare Scheidler, Theodore Sheppard, Stephanie Wagner, Isabelle Young
10th Grade: Felicity Brelage, Rachel Cigolotti, Laura Dennis, Eleanor Egalin, Bridgette Ehrhard, Calyssa Evers, Ashley Hunter, Madeline Ryan, Rachel Suttmann, Lillian Vanderpohl 11th Grade: Bryce Crain, Ava Henry, Elana Hollingsworth, Christian Mack, Annabelle Nunlist, Santiago Schutte, Henry Wanstrath, Dominic Yane
12th Grade: Jacob Cornelius, Rachel Lamping, Sara Lamping, Angus Lonergan, Kenlee Martin, Isabel Price, Ellie Ryan, Lillian Schebler, Sadie Wachsmann, Kate Weber Centennial Service Awards - Students with over 100 service hours: Amelia Crawford, Lily
Dennis, Ryan Geis, Rachel Lamping, Sara Lamping, Kenlee Martin, Alexander Matacia, Ellie Ryan, Lillian Schebler, Sadie Wachsmann, Kate Weber
Rising Stars of Indiana - Jacob Hilbert, Zachary Hoff, Caroline Niese, Annabelle Nunlist
Indiana Academic All Star - Sadie Wachsmann
Hoxworth Blood Center - Lily Dennis, Sara Lamping, Rachel Lamping, Lauren Richards, Lilly Schebler

BAAC 2D Art: Rachel Cigolotti, Eleanor Eaglin, Norah Haverkos, Elana Hollingsworth, Bridgett Lohmueller, Gabriella Moore, Alexandra Nobbe, Eleanor Pierce, Grant Rosenberger, BAAC 3D Art: Rachel Cigolotti, Norah Haverkos, Elana Hollingsworth, Eleanor Pierce BAAC AP Art: Amelia Crawford, Bernard Heile, Ava Henry, Albert Hudepohl, Kenlee Martin, Alexander Matacia, Carson Phillips, Lauren Richards, Evelyn Vanderpohl, Jacob Voegele, Arabella Webb
BAAC High School Play: Matthew Geisen, Sophia Hohenstein, Lauren Richards, Ellen Swain, Maria Voegele
BAAC Instrumental: Bridgette Ehrhard (Piano), Sophia Hohenstein (Strings), Simon Nobbe (Winds)
BAAC Photography: Lily Dennis, Cale Johannigman, Ellen Paul, Garrett Sohmer, Donovan Wesseler
BAAC Vocal: Rebecca Durham
BAAC Poetry: Isabel Price, Jacob Voegele
Academic Team 3rd Place State - Social Studies: Adam Dennis, Bridgette Ehrhard, Madeline Ryan, Ellie Ryan
Academic Team 3rd Place State - Language Arts: Laura Dennis, Lily Dennis, Eleanor Eaglin, Lydia Ehrhard, Sophia Hohenstein
Academic All-State: Chloe Bohman, Jacob Cornelius, Lily Dennis, Jacob Hilbert, Elana Hollingsworth, Addisyn Lambert, Sara Lamping, Rachel Lamping, Kloie Lehman, Thomas Lohmueller, Angus Lonergan, Christian Mack, Kenlee Martin, Isabel Price, Ellie Ryan, Lillian Schebler, Sadie Wachsmann, Isaiah Waggoner, Henry Wanstrath, Kate Weber
Jackie Wenning Fitzgerald Twister Spirit Award: Lilly Schebler

07/01/2024

Roger Purcell, a 50-year-old Franklin County resident, has been missing since June 21. Despite extensive searches, he has not been found, and there are currently no leads, according to his mother, Ruth Purcell. This is an urgent situation that requires immediate attention.

He was last seen at his home in the West Harrison (School Rd) area around midnight. Ruth believes Roger went missing sometime between 12 a.m. and 5 a.m. after he fed the horses, which he did daily during that time. Due to Roger's health conditions, his mother thinks he could not have traveled far on foot and wonders if someone may have picked him up.

His mother is devastated and is asking the community to keep an eye out as they travel through the area and for anyone with cameras to check their footage.

Roger is 5 feet 9 inches tall, 250 pounds, has black hair with brown eyes, and was last seen wearing a gray cutoff tank top and white shorts. He is believed to be in extreme danger and may require medical assistance. Roger has suffered brain damage as a result of strokes and is a diabetic.

If anyone has any information on Roger, no matter how small it may seem, it could be crucial in finding him. Please call the Franklin County Sheriff's Department at (765) 647-4138 or message his mother, Ruth Cheek Purcell, on Facebook.

Reported by Cassie Garrett

07/01/2024

Fourth of July Festivities

This year, there are activities planned on both July 4th and July 5th to celebrate Independence Day.

First, the City of Batesville will be resurrecting the community Fourth of July parade which will take place on Thursday, July 4, 2024 at 11am

Be sure to wear your most festive and patriotic red, white, and blue outfit!

Floats are welcome, but we are encouraging a format that makes it easy for anyone to participate. This includes: tractors, golf carts, bicycles, big wheels, wagons, tricycles, strollers, clubs/groups, walkers (bring your dogs!), and horses

The parade route will be as follows:
Line up on Mulberry Street (by Batesville Memorial Pool)
Proceed south on Mulberry
Turn left on Pearl
Turn right on Main
Turn left on Catherine
Turn right on Park
End parade at Liberty Park

Parade participants should arrive at the staging area beginning at 10am (by Batesville Middle School and the Batesville Memorial Pool) and look for signs to direct you to the appropriate area.

There will be separate staging areas for
-Floats, Cars, Trucks
-Golf Carts, ATVs, Tractors
-Bicycles and walkers
-Horses

If you are interested in participating in the parade (especially with a float, car, or truck), registration is appreciated but not required. Click Here for the Registration Link.
USA_dog.jpg
After The Parade...

When the parade ends at Liberty Park, we hope you'll relax awhile and spend time with your family and friends.

There will be fun, food, and activities at the park hosted by Batesville Area Arts Council, Batesville Kiwanis, Batesville Fire & Rescue, Back Roads Bar & Grill (they're hosting at their location on Park Ave) and more!


On Friday, the Fireworks!

On Friday, July 5th, you can start your evening before the fireworks at Lil' Charlies to enjoy an Independence Day Special, the Captain America.

Or, join the Eureka Band for a patriotic performance at Liberty Park which will start at 8pm.

After the show, you can head toward Hillcrest to watch the fireworks!

Hillcrest Golf & Country Club, along with the City of Batesville, will host fireworks which will start between 930-10pm

In case of inclement weather, the alternate date for fireworks will be Sunday, July 7, 2024.

Special thanks to Scarrette Pyrotechnics Shows and Displays
for their support of the fireworks display.

06/28/2024

Y Staff Receive Special Recognition

Monday, June 24, 2024 Batesville, IN – Four Southeastern Indiana YMCA staff were recognized at the June meeting of its Board of Directors, for going above and beyond the call to serve others and advance the mission of the Y. The YMCA S.O.A.R. Award (Service and Outstanding Achievement Recognition) was presented to Ava Kraus, Caity Yeager, Nick Becker and Amber Rossman. The S.O.A.R. award honors staff leaders who illustrate outstanding efforts to contribute to the success of the Southeastern Indiana YMCA community through their service and achievements.
Ava Kraus, Child Watch Staff – “Ava always has a smile on her face,” shared Tameeka Sizemore, Southeastern Indiana YMCA Membership Director, who nominated Ava. “She’s so good with all the parents and children. They love coming to see her. She’s always willing and ready to step up and fill in whenever needed. We’re so excited to have her on our team and look forward to seeing what the future has in store.”

Caity Yeager, Welcome Center Specialist – “Caity is the one that greets you with a happy ‘hello’ when you walk through the door during the day,” said Sizemore. “She joined the Y last October with all hands on deck. She immediately connected with our members and knows them by name. She’ll even compliment you on your new haircut and notice your sporty new glasses. Caity worked on our Annual Campaign for the first time and she was so nervous getting started. But she’s doing an amazing job. She’s a rock star and we’re so glad to have her with us!”

Nick Becker, Facilities Manager – “Nick has been an awesome addition to the Y,” shared Tara Britton, Chief Executive Officer, Southeastern Indiana YMCA. “He is our doer of everything. His background was in construction management, but after just a week on the job he was a pro with managing our facility. He takes care of so many things behind the scenes that we as members and staff have no idea about. He’s done an amazing job overseeing the renovations of the new Makerspace in our Rec Room and the Pool Retreat, on top of all of his other daily duties. Congratulation and thank you Nick!”

Amber Rossman, Youth Experience Director – “Amber joined us last December and has been integral in the development of many new youth programs as well as enhancing existing ones,” said Britton. “She leads our before and afterschool program, summer day camp, sports and youth experience programming, and starting this fall - Y Pack, which is the afterschool latch key program at Batesville Primary School that our Y will be facilitating. This summer she launched Camp Alon at the Girl Scout House. We’re in week five of camp and we have our largest enrollment ever. Parents have commented on their kids coming home and falling asleep from all the fun they had outside all day. We want to thank Amber for her hard work, long hours and dedication. In addition to staff who nominated Amber, one of our Board Members who also nominated Amber stated, ‘Thank you for your efforts in planning and implementing so many wonderful programs for the youth in our community,’” shared Britton.

“I am very proud of the numerous accomplishments and initiatives that our team has made to strengthen our community,” added Britton.
# # #

About the Southeastern Indiana YMCA:
Healthy living through physical activity is central to the Southeastern Indiana YMCA’s cause. Programs at the Y are fun, interactive ways to engage members in activity, and positively impact their health regardless of their fitness level. Programs are designed to engage individuals in supportive group settings, enhancing social bonds and strengthening our community. For more information on the Southeastern Indiana YMCA, their programs, or employment, visit their website at www.siymca.org, call 812-934-6006, or visit them at 30 State Road 129 S, Batesville, IN 47006.

06/21/2024

***Missing Person***

The family and friends of Franklin County resident Roger Purcell are asking the community for help locating him.

Purcell, age 50, was last seen at his home in the West Harrison area last night (06/20/24) at about 11 p.m. Roger was last seen wearing a gray cut off tank top and white shorts.

Contact the Franklin County Sheriff's Department if you have any information on Purcell’s whereabouts at (765) 647-4138.

At 8:17 p.m. ISP issued a Statewide Silver Alert stating: The Franklin County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the disappearance of Roger Purcell, a 50 year old black male, 5 feet 9 inches tall, 250 pounds, black hair with brown eyes, last seen wearing a gray cutoff tank top and white shorts. He is believed to be in extreme danger and may require medical assistance.

No further information is available at this time.

06/18/2024

Closure planned on State Road 101 near Sunman
RIPLEY COUNTY, Ind. — Indiana Department of Transportation contractor OLCO plans to close State Road 101 approximately two miles south of Sunman on or after Monday, June 24, to complete a small structure replacement project in Ripley County.

The closure will take place between S.R. 48 and Asche Road and is expected to take up to 30 days, weather permitting. Crews will begin to place signage in the area prior to the start of construction. During the closure, motorists should use the official detour route which follows S.R. 48 to S.R. 129 to S.R. 46.

This project is part of a contract awarded to OLCO in February 2024. INDOT reminds drivers to slow down, use extra caution and avoid distractions when traveling in and near work zones. All work is weather-dependent and schedules are subject to change.

06/17/2024

Ripley County Sheriff’s Office Press Release

06/12/2024

Help spread the word by sharing!

05/28/2024

Knights of Columbus Annual Youth Fishing Derby
June 2nd, 2024 12 - 3 PM
Liberty Park Reservoir, Batesville
Prizes and Light Lunch at KofC Hall, Batesville after Derby
Open to all Kids age 6-18yrs. in the Community

05/23/2024

A Ride to Remeber is June 8 & 9. You can read the full story in this week’s edition of The Batesville Leader.

05/23/2024

05/18/2024

Former University of Kentucky swimmer Riley Gaines will visit Batesville for a unique evening on Monday, June 17.

Gaines is a 12-time All-American swimmer and also a two-time Olympic trial qualifier. She is also a contributor for Fox News.
She has garnered national attention for defending women’s single-sex spaces, and standing up for women’s safety, privacy, and equal opportunities.

The event called “A Conversation with Riley Gaines” was organized by Batesville residents Leon Smith and Terrance Arney who host the Overtime Podcast.

“This is an opportunity for us to have a real conversation with Riley about how she went from being a little girl from Tennessee to the person she is now. It is rare to have the chance to bring someone as dynamic as her to introduce to our community and show not just young people, but all people, more importantly girls and young women, how to be passionate about what you believe, fight for what they believe to right, and never giving up until the mission is complete,” Leon Smith said.

Tickets cost $45 per person or you can buy a table for 10 for a cost of $400. The purchase of a table ensures 2 VIP passes for a meet-and-greet with Gaines. The cost for student tickets at $25 per student. Single passes for the VIP Meet & Greet can be purchased for $25.

"Due to our generous donors, we are excited to be able to offer complimentary seats to local high school students. Whether you're interested in her field of expertise or simply seeking inspiration, this event is an opportunity not to be missed," Smith added.
This is a public event with a pre-registration required by May 31. It will be held at the RomWeber Party Place. To register, visit www.overtimellc.com

The VIP Meet-and-Greet begins at 5:30 p.m., dinner will be at 6 p.m. and Riley Gaines will speak at 7 p.m.

05/16/2024

This Saturday, May 18, the sixth annual Myla's Mission for Sturge-Weber Research and Awareness Fundraiser will be held in support of the Sturge-Weber Foundation (SWF), whose global mission is to improve the quality of life and care for people with Sturge-Weber syndrome and associated Port-Wine Birthmark conditions. The fundraiser kicks off with a 5K beginning at 9 a.m. at Lake Santee's main beach. Then, at approximately 12:30 p.m., the Jeep/UTV ride begins. A silent auction will also be held. Registration and t-shirt pick up for the 5k starts at 8 a.m.

Myla Speer's family started the fundraiser after she was diagnosed with Sturge-Weber Syndrome when she was just eight months old. Sturge-Weber Syndrome is a rare neurological disorder characterized by a port-wine stain birthmark on the face, which is caused by an overabundance of capillaries near the skin's surface. This condition is also associated with abnormal blood vessel development in the brain, which can lead to seizures, developmental delays, and other neurological problems. Myla's mother, Molly, shared the events leading up to Myla's diagnosis.

"She was such a calm and self-comforting baby, and one night, she just was not being herself. We thought she was just being crabby or not having it that day, so we went ahead and put her to bed like normal," Molly said. "In the middle of the night, she began crying again, and we could not really console her. So I got up and was sitting up with her, and we both fell asleep. I went to put her back in her crib at around 2 a.m. and noticed things were not quite right. She didn't look okay and was not acting okay. That is when she had her first seizure, which lasted over 45 minutes."

Now Myla is seven and full of life, trying not to let her diagnosis affect her as she fights, but is still dealing with its side effects every day.

"She lets nothing get in her way," Molly said. "She fights through her seizures, and she works through her delays and disabilities. She does have seizures around one week out of the month, but she will have three to four in that period of time. Her seizures are more like strokes so they really affect her left side of her body. Whenever she has one she has to work back to her baseline and walking
sometimes is a struggle and her strength is a struggle as well. She does have these at school, so right now, at her age, they do not affect her, but I am sure as she continues to get older, it may have an effect on her day-to-day life at school. "

Despite Myla’s challenges she doesn't let anything bring her down and enjoys everything a 7-year-old would.

"She loves princesses, dolls, and all things dress up. She loves being with her family and all of her older and younger cousins, as they bring her joy and accept her so much for who she is!"

Molly shared why the event and supporting SWF is crucial, as SWF is funded entirely by donations and fundraisers.

"It is so important that we and others raise money for the foundation or else research would not be possible for Sturge-Weber patients. The current people that are diagnosed and for the ones in the future!"

05/15/2024

Batesville VFW and American Legion Posts will again host Memorial Day Programs this year. Six local Cemetery visits, followed by program at Liberty Park Pavilion, Batesville.

May 27
Holy Family Cemetery, Oldenburg - 8 a.m.
St. Anthony Cemetery, Morris - 8:30 a.m.
St. Marks Cemetery, Batesville - 9 a.m.
St. Johns Cemetery, Huntersville - 9:30 a.m.
St. Louis, and M**hodist Cemeteries 10 a.m.
Program at Liberty Park Pavilion - 11 a.m.

Open House at Batesville VFW Post #3183 after Program at Park

05/15/2024

Knights of Columbus Annual Youth Fishing Derby
When: June 2nd, 2024
Time: 12 - 3 p.m.
Where: Liberty Park Reservoir, Batesville
Prizes and Light Lunch at K of C Hall, Batesville after derby. Open to all kids ages 6-18 in the community.

05/14/2024

**CANCELLATION***

Silver Alert 041-2024 issued on Monday, May 13, 2024 on Camden Hatfield has been cancelled as of Thursday, May 16, 2024. For more information on this cancellation, please contact the Rush County Sheriff’s Office at 765-932-2931.

A Statewide Silver Alert has been declared for missing teen

The Rush County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the disappearance of Camden Hatfield, a 15-year-old white male, 5 feet 7 inches tall, 125 pounds, brown hair with blue eyes, last seen wearing a black tank top and black jogger pants.

Camden is missing from Knightstown, Indiana which is 35 miles east of downtown Indianapolis and was last seen on May 8, 2024 at 10:30 pm. He is believed to be in extreme danger.

If you have any information on Camden Hatfield, contact the Rush County Sheriff’s Office at 765-932-2931 or 911.

Source: RCSO

05/08/2024

Congratulations!

05/07/2024

LOCAL WOMAN-OWNED BUSINESS EMBARKS ON INNOVATIVE DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY IN BATESVILLE

Lisa Hutson has big things planned for Batesville. Lisa is the owner of Cosawove (previously known as Hiviz), a certified woman-owned business based in Sunman that focuses on manufacturing and delivering workwear. Cosawove delivers products throughout the United States and as well as internationally.

Recently, Lisa signed contracts to purchase two downtown buildings previously owned by Baxter (this includes the building known as the HillRom Training Center and the building known as the AP Building), as well as The Sherman, Biergarten, and Bier Hall Event Factory.

Cosawove has experienced incredible growth in the past few years and part of this property acquisition is planned for their expanding business operations. But the large majority of the square footage is earmarked for greater things. Lisa’s dream is to make the most positive impact on the greatest number of people possible with this project.
Taking on a huge development like this wasn’t always something Lisa had in mind for herself. Lisa invested much of herself over the years into raising her five children, planning activities, running errands, and sewing their clothes and costumes. When she contemplated building a business as her kids grew, she knew she had talent in the sewing and design arena. This inspired the creation of Hiviz, now rebranded as Cosawove.

Through Cosawove, Lisa has experienced great success partnering with IEDC (Indiana Economic Development Corp) and SBDC (Small Business Development Center). Her expertise and familiarity with these resources, combined with a personal setback, sparked her vision for this downtown project.

Lisa shared, “A few years ago, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. At that time, my focus was getting healthy for myself and my family. Once my cancer went into remission, I was overwhelmed with gratitude and had a completely new set of priorities. This project is not about getting rich; this is about leaving a legacy and making life better for as many people as possible.”

Lisa’s vision for the development of this two hundred and fifty thousand square feet goes beyond securing an operating space for Cosawove. She has plans to implement a number of valuable internship programs through the Department of Labor including programs to train employees in culinary arts, hospitality, beauty services, early childhood education, and more. In addition to the onsite educational services, the development would also include housing and retail/shopping space. The current hospitality operation would continue to be a landmark destination as a restaurant and hotel.

Despite all the work that has already gone into this initiative, there are still some pending decisions and potential obstacles that need to be addressed before any construction would begin.

Lisa expressed,“I am grateful for all the support I’ve already received from the community and hope I’ll have your continued support as we tackle these final impediments that could stand in our way.”

05/07/2024

As part of its community investment process at the end of 2023, United Way of Franklin and Ripley Counties granted funds to community partners in the area working to improve mental health. Franklin County and Ripley County have su***de rates 6 points and 4 points higher than the state average respectively, and the United Way of Franklin and Ripley County and its partners are committed to reducing the number of people that feel life is unbearable and not worth living. Investments in mental health are part of a larger focus on total well-being for the United Way of Franklin and Ripley Counties.

Franklin and Ripley Counties have a low ratio of mental health providers to residents, so it is essential that every member of the community can connect with needed resources and build resilience through mental health supports. “Our vision is a hope-filled, resilient community where everyone can meet their essential needs, connect to new opportunities and to each other. Achieving that vision takes collaboration, said Kelly Bulmer, President and CEO of United Way of Franklin and Ripley Counties.

A working group made up of local nonprofits and agencies was recently convened by United Way of Franklin and Ripley Counties to begin to assess the mental health needs of youth in our community. Their first project coincides with May Mental Health Awareness Month, and a partnership with local coffee and drink shops. During the month of May, if you purchase a drink from Coffee On Main or Fuel Nutrition in Brookville or Amack’s Well in Batesville there will be a sticker with a QR code to scan. The QR code will take you to a short survey and listing of mental health resources along with a description of some of the assets that young people need to thrive. Anyone who fills out the survey will be entered into a drawing for a $50 Amazon gift card, donated by Stayin’ Alive the local coordinating coalition in Franklin County.

“We hope to begin the conversation about what mental health means and what assets our community can build on and strengthen so our youth thrive,” Bulmer stated.

Any organization of individual interested in participating in the group can email Bulmer at [email protected]
If you or someone you know may be at risk of su***de, please dial 9-8-8 to speak confidentially to a support counselor at the 988 Su***de and Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Su***de Lifeline). The Lifeline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Chat and text options in English and Spanish are also available.

LInk to Landing Page:

Check out this Real Estate Flyer designed by Fran Edwards.