December 17 ^- Santa Claus Visited the McLean County Library!

The McLean County Library hosted a gathering with Santa Claus and provided an array of scrumptious cookies and milk for all. Santa arrived at the Library right on schedule at 10:00 am and children as well as adults greeted him with cries of excitement. They all sat with Santa to share with him their Christmas wishes but their conversations also ranged from school to church to their sisters and brothers as well as their parents. Fortunately, Santa is an excellent listener!

There was also staffing from the Family Resource & Youth Center who worked with the children and helped them create special keys for Santa to use on his visitation to each of their homes Christmas Eve. During this time the milk and cookies were consumed with gusto and at 11:30, the children, their parents and grandparents were treated to a special holiday movie, "Beethovens Christmas Adventure". This definitely started off the Christmas week in a jolly manner!

At the close of the event, the attendees were provided with a picture of their visit with Santa Claus. Everyone agreed it was a 'pretty good time' to quote one of the younger attendees.

Click on link below for all of the photos with Santa:

"Visit with Santa at the Library"



December 10, 2011 Lighted Christmas Parade

The lighted Livermore Christmas Parade, sponsored by the Livermore Lions Club, kicked off promptly at 5:00 pm from the Livermore school parking lot. It was brisk and cold, BUT.....it didn't rain or snow and the wind stayed away! It was a great evening and the floats were beautiful!

The Junior ROTC of McLean County, led by the Color Guard, marched in the parade. Girl Scout Troop 1164 "floated" by while horses decorated with lights and mules pulling a covered wagon, trotted down Main and Hill Streets. We were treated to a large display of the county's fire engines and equipment, motor cycles, and golf carts - all decorated with Christmas lights! The McLean County High School Marching Band provided the music and many of the band players as well as their musical instruments were decorated with Christmas lights! Even the McLean County Public Library's Book Mobile was riding proudly through the streets. Both Miss McLean County and Junior Teen Miss McLean County graced our parade. Santa Claus and Mrs. Clause arrived in their sleigh pulled by a train engine. There was a penguin who came along for the ride of its life, as well! And all participants seemed to have an endles supply of candy which was thrown out to everyone along the parade route.

This year the Lions club provided:

1) a 1^st place award of $300 to Knobbs Church of God of Prophecy's "Once Upon a Christmas" float,

2) a second place award of $200 to Independence Bank for their float featuring a 'good' Grinch popping up out of the float's chimney,

3)a third place award of $100 to Tammy's Learning Center float which featured a cozy fire place setting and

4) a fourth place award of $50 to the Independence Bank Train featuring the engine and 4 cars.

Click on link below for more photos from the parade:

Livermore Christmas Parade 2011

December 10 - Christmas for Kids

This year, the annual Christmas for Kids event sponsored by a variety of McLean County organizations, including the Family Resource and Youth Service Center (and all its subsidiaries) and the Ministerial Association, was a huge success!

Parents who are unable to provide gifts and a Christmas meal to their families can come to Livermore City Hall during Christmas for Kids to do their holiday "shopping" - there are booths set up with gifts appropriate to all age groups from birth to 19 years. Each participant also gets the requirements for a special holiday meal and there are also booths for stocking stuffers and booths to wrap gifts. All items are completely free.

Event organizer Susie Vandiver explains that the event serves 200 to 250 families (about 500 children) each year. She states that this is a collaborative effort and she is grateful for the community's assistance with this event. The participating organizations collect donations all year and when the holiday season hits, volunteers go shopping for gifts for each age group.

High-school age volunteers help families visit booths to choose items and cart the items out to the participating families' cars. Families can pre-register to attend Christmas for Kids or they can register on the day of the event. For more information about Christmas for Kids, to volunteer or to pre-register, contact Susie Vandiver at the Family Resource Center at 278-273-0065.

Click link below to see additional photos:

Christmas for Kids

December 6, 2011

• Want access to 1700 news sources from across the country?

Your McLean County Public Library membership now allows you to access Americas News online from the comfort and convenience of your own home. Simply click the link below:

http://infoweb.newsbank.com/signin/McLeanCountyPublicLibrary

THEN:

.....type your library card number located on the back of your library card into the box labeled "Barcode", (for example P 123) and click "Connect" to start searching archives from the Owensboro Messenger Inquirer and over 1700 news sources from across the country! If your library card number has only two (2) digits, then you will need to enter a leading "0" in front of it (for example P 60 - change it to read P 060).

• Want to research your Family Tree from home?

Your McLean County Public Library membership now allows you to access HeritageQuest online from the comfort and convenience of your own home. Simply type in the address:

http://www.heritagequestonline.com/barcode?aid=20498

THEN.....

.....type your library card number located on the back of your library card into the box labeled "Barcode", (for example P 123) and click "Connect" to start searching! If your library card number has only two (2) digits, then you will need to enter a leading "0" in front of it (for example P 60 - change it to read P 060).

December 2011 Gods House of Hope, Inc.has moved

Gods House of Hope, Inc. has moved to a new and permanent location, the former First Security Bank location in Island, KY (205 W. Main Street, 270-499-1658). They will open December 22, 2011 and all Tri State and Senior Commodities distributions will be handled.

To avoid overcrowding, they will be open two (2) days every week of the year on Mondays and Thursdays, 9:00am until 12:00 noon. Food may be picked up during the month, but only one time per month. Handicap ramps are provided.

December 6, 2011 - Free Income Tax Preparation

Help working families:

Become a volunteer for the Green River Asset Building Coalition

During the last tax season the 12 individuals picturedbelow, along with 78 more volunteers served as volunteer income tax preparers for the Green River Asset Building Coalition. Our volunteers represent nearly every segment of our community and most, like those pictured below, return each year. They filed tax returns for nearly 3100 working low-to-moderate income families in the Green River area, saving them an average of $215 in filing fees, or collectively, $650,000. The volunteers also helped families avoid the high-interest refund anticipation loans promoted aggressively by some commercial tax preparers. Serving as a tax preparer or screener is a rewarding volunteer opportunity and offers a unique way to strengthen our community. Tax return preparation experience is not necessary, but some computer literacy is required.

Learn more at GRABC.org

Send an email to rhayden@laheg.org or call (270) 685-1603 if you would like to volunteer.

VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED TO JOIN THE RETURNING VOLUNTEERS PICTURED ABOVE:

Shown from left to right are:

David Fleischmann, Swedish Match; Tina Dillon, Daymar; Dr. Patricia Akjoie, Brescia University; Angela Smith, OCTC; Gloria Zinobile, Community Volunteer; Nick Nichols, Jr., Community Volunteer; Norma Tipton, Community Volunteer; Wayne Tipton, Community Volunteer; Nikki Ligon, BB&T; Ruben Hayden, AmeriCorps; Jenna Mitchell, Independence Bank, Barney Boothe, Community

December 1, 2011 - Christmas Gala

The Livermore Womans' Club Christmas Gala held at the McLean County Public library on December 1st was a huge success! Many attended and enjoyed the refreshments and entertainment. The Christmas Tree Forest was delightful and transported one back to their childhood. The entertainment was provided by Livermore Elementary school children. We thank the Livermore Womans' Club for sponsoring this event!

Click on link below to see all photos taken at Gala:

Chistmas Gala

(submitted by Andrea Shelton & Dianna Hoover)

November 20, 2011 - Community Praise Sing

Promptly at 6:00 pm, Brother Ronnie Dame welcomed all to the 2011 Livermore Community Praise Sing, hosted by the Livermore Christ Gospel Church. With a scripture reading, a prayer and the attending congregation singing "Great is our God", the community Thanksgiving Worship Service began.

Five of our Communitys' churches participated in this service:

• Livermore Missionary Baptist Church

Pastor: Rev. Clive Bell

Choir director: Kelly Thurman

• St. Charles Catholic Church

Pastor: Father John Okoro

Music Director: Pat Martinez

• Livermore United Methodist Church

Pastor: Rev. Jim White

Choir Director: Becca Partlowe

• Livermore General Baptist Church

Pastor: Rev. Roy Day

Choir Director: Martha Ann Sharp

• Livermore Christ Gospel Church

Pastor: Rev. Anne Hinton

Choir Director: Cathy Hardison

The various choirs comprised of adults and children alike, were all part of this beautiful musical thanksgiving. There were also outstanding soloists, Pat Martinez, Louise Henton, Kari Little and Bro. Steve Case.

At the conclusion of the joyful Praise Sing, our host, Livermore Christ Gospel Church, provided a delicious repast for everyone. The food and fellowship was enjoyed by all.

This is a wonderful way to begin the holiday season!

November 17, 2011 - McLean County Chamber of Commerce Meeting

The McLean County Chamber of Commerce held its monthly meeting at the McLean County Public Library in Livermore on Thursday evening, the 17^th of November. It was hosted by the Livermore Womans' Club who provided refreshments for the enjoyment of all attendees. The meeting took place on the second floor of the Library, in the midst of the beautifully decorated Christmas Tree Forest.

As an added surprise the McLean County Junior Reserves Officer Training Corp, Honor Guard, presented a moving Prisoner of War / Missing in Action Ceremony. Cadet SFC Faith Patton addressed the audience with a clarification of the ceremony.

It was a most productive meeting and enjoyed by all.

November 11, 2011 - Veterans Day Celebration

Veterans Day dawned brisk, sunny and gusty - perfect for honoring all those who serve today as well as those who served in the past, filling our history books with overflowing heroism, honor, pain, glory and pride. Over three hundred attendees comprised of Veterans and their families came today to honor the members of all branches of service who are fighting today and have fought in the past for our country's freedom.

George Rhodes of the Livermore Veterans Organization, opened the program with an introduction of Special Guests, after which there was the Presentation of Colors by the MCHS JROTC and the singing of the National Anthem by Bill Robey. In recognition of Veterans in attendance, Miss Florence Stodghill played the service hymns on the piano of the Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, Army and Air Force. Wayne Morris sang a moving rendition of "Until the Last Shots Fired" and to honor the deceased Veterans, George Rhodes read the names of those Veterans who passed away this past year in McLean County.

The McLean County Junior Reserves Officer Training Corp, Honor Guard, presented a moving Prisoner of War / Missing in Action Ceremony. Cadet SFC Faith Patton addressed the audience with a clarification of the ceremony. In front of the audience was a round dining table set for five - cadet SFC Faith Patton's explanation of this table reads as follows:

"I have been given the privilege and honor to introduce and acknowledge this table in remembrance of all the prisoners of war, missing in action, and killed in action. From all American involvement in World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Grenada, the Persian Gulf, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom and more.

Many have looked at this table and wondered...Let me explain. This table is set for five, representing the frailty of prisoners against their oppressors.

Remember, the table is round to show our everlasting concern for our missing men.

Remember, the table cloth is white to represent the purity of our soldier's intentions to respond to their country's call to arms.

Remember, the candle is placed in the center of the table to represent the families of loved ones, who kept the faith, waiting the return of ones so dear to them.

Remember, the red ribbon tied so prominently around the candle is reminiscent of the red ribbon worn upon the lapel and breast of thousands who bear witness to their unyielding determination to demand a proper accounting of our missing.

Remember, the lemon upon the bread plate is to remind us of the bitter fate.

Remember, a pinch of salt on the bread plate is symbolic of families tears as they still wait.

Remember, the glasses are inverted to symbolize their inability to share this afternoon's toast.

Remember, for all of you who have served with them, called them your brothers and sisters, depended upon their might and aid, and relied on them, remember them, for surely they have not forgotten you."

The guest speaker, Jack Kassinger, a Livermore native who served in the Marines and then as a CIA support officer, addressed the audience. He has written two books relative to his experiences in the service - the first book "Holding Hands with Heroes", a memoir written for the benefit of his children and the second book "Noble Cause", a fiction spy thriller inspired by real-life events.

Wayne Morris then sang "God Bless the U.S.A." in which all in attendance participated.

At the conclusion of the program, everyone was invited to stay and join together to fellowship at the potluck dinner. After the potluck, the color guard led the parade to the Memorial Walkway at the Tank Park at 1:00 pm for honors and Taps to close the celebration with a balloon launch in memory of all Veterans.

Additionally, the school children had crafted flags, letters and cards for our Veterans to recognize them and make them aware that children understand a little of what our Veterans have been through for our country's sake and truly appreciate it.

It was a most memorable day!

"Some of our Veterans"

November 10, 2011 - Matt Fenwrick sworn in at City Hall

The Code Enforcement Board has a new member. Matt Fenwrick was sworn in by Deanna Edmonds at City Hall on Thursday, November 10th.

November 10, 2011 - McLean County Native Authors Books

Livermore native, Jack Kassinger, was available on Thursday, November 10th at the McLean County Public Libraryfor a book signing of his first book "Holding Hands with Heroes". He has also recently published his second book "Noble Cause" which is curently only available at Amazon (http://www.amazon.com) .

"Holding Hands with Heroes" provides an overview of Kassinger's life, starting with his time in Livermore and covering his career first in the Marines and then as a CIA support officer.Many came tovisit with him at the Library on and learned more about one of Livermore's leading citizens. It was a good day.

October 31, 2011 - Halloween Havoc

It was a beautiful sunny day in the mid 60's, and the ghosts and goblins were all out looking for a good time ---- as well as candy! Promptly, at 4:00 pm, the crowds started to arrive at the Caboose Park. The caboose was set up as the "Scare House" by the Family Resource Center and most found it scary and exciting - some a little more so than they would have wished! There was an inflatable 'Bounce House" as well as an inflatable "Obstacle Course" - but, it appeared the costumed kiddles found these inflatables a little more challenging because of their extra and unusual clothing disguises!

Hot dogs and funnel cakes were available along with all the candy! There were games and prizes along the caboose track and a "Costume Walk" sponsored by the Livermore Woman's Club. Prizes were given for the MOST ORIGINAL, UGLIEST AND PRETTIEST in each category: Preschool, Elementary, Middle School, High School and Older Folks. The winners were as follows:

PRE-SCHOOL:

• Prettiest - Myley Hudson (Pretty Pink Dress)
• Most Original - Jamyrah Johnson (Indian)
• Ugliest - Ayden Dame (Clown)

ELEMENTARY:

• Prettiest - Terry Bishop
• Most Original - Grace Hudson (Twister Game)
• Ugliest - Jonan Brags

MIDDLE SCHOOL:

• Best looking - Kyler Parham
• Most Original - Jacob Zuehl
• Ugliest - Drew Colburn

HIGH SCHOOL:

• Best Looking - Nick Doep (Robot I)
• Most Original - Keith Presley (Robot II)

ADULT:

• Best Dressed - John Hudson - (Monopoly Game)
• Scariest - Christi Wall
• Ugliest - Dexter Hedges

See if you can find the winners in the "Halloween Havoc - 2011" photo album below.

There was a train ride for the smaller children which ran from 4:00 to 7:00 PM. A "Jitney" ride provided children and adults an opportunity to ride from the Caboose Park over to the Library and back. The Library had tricks and treats throughout and provided face painting for who ever was interested. It was an excellent reason to visit the library again and see what the County has to offer!

It was a beautiful evening and enjoyed by all.....young and old alike!

Click on link below for additional pictures from "Halloween Havoc"

"Halloween Havoc - 2011"

October 24, 2011 -Boat Ramp Parking Facility at RV Park

October 6, 2011 - McLean County Public Library Bookmobile

The McLean County Public Library's bookmobile is now active within the community. The bookmobile will be at the following locations each week from about 10 a.m. to noon:

• Tuesday: Smith's Super Saver in Beech Grove
• Wednesday: Sacramento United Methodist Church
• Thursday: Island City Hall
• Friday: Parking lot across from the courthouse in Calhoun

September 24, 2011 - Mother Nature Won.....

The Livermore Riverfest was cancelled for the first time in five years due to rain storms which rattled through Kentucky, specifically Livermore, on both the eve of the event as well as the entire morning of the scheduled Riverfest. Very disappointing for all - car enthusiasts, children who love the inflatables, games and rides and those of us who truly enjoy festival foods! With the rain, the grounds became saturated and soggy and electrical equipment, required by our planned musical entertainment and vendors, was at risk. At 7:00 A.M., the decision was made by the Riverfest organizers to call off the day's events.

One of the vendors, the "Sippin' & Dippin" Team, was able to provide their food offerings of pulled pork, Boston Butt and Burgoo since their cooking process started at 10:00P.M. the previous evening. While the Riverfest organizers provided cancellation informaton to the public via local media and several Facebook social media outlets, unfortunately, not everyone got the word. There were about 12 cars which arrived in the "on again, off again" rain Saturday morning. While they were disappointed that the event was cancelled, they were very pleased that the"Sippin' & Dippin" Team persisted cooking throughout the night and many enjoyed hot burgoo.

The Riverfest organizers wish to thank all of the Sponsors and Vendors for their support of the planned 2011 Riverfest and hope to be able to reschedule the event in the near future, subject to availability of vendors and entertainment.

Some car enthusiasts who braved the weather - we thank you for your efforts!

For additional photos, please click on link below:

2011 Riverfest....."Mother Nature Won"

September 22, 2011 - New Arrival in town

Through a grant provided by the Kentucky Department Library Archives (KDLA), McLean County Public Library now has a BookMobile! Soon, you'll see it rolling through your County. The schedule will be announced soon.

Aimee Newberry,Jason Peek & Tina Dame....................Interior of BookMobile



September 2, 2011 - Library News!

Today, the McLean County Public Library was blessed with a generous donation from the Phillip Sayre Family of Owensboro! They provided the Library with such an abundance of books - it's difficult to know where to start! They arrived at the Library in a horse trailor and are in the process of being unloaded, unpacked and prepared for the Library shelves. Many thanks to the gracious and kind Phillip Sayre Family!

"Dianna Hoover and Aimee Newberry working on the distribution of the boxes of books"

"A lot of good reading in those boxes!"

August 27/28, 2011 - Annual "Thunder on the Green"!

The Kentucky Drag Boat Association (KDBA) held their annual Thunder on the Green Drag Boat Races this past Saturday and Sunday, to the delight of all who attended. It was held on the Green River in Livermore and the weather couldnt have been nicer. Time trials were held on Saturday and the final races were held on Sunday.

Roger Austin, President of the KDBA, explained that the KDBA entered into an association with Lucas Oil a few years ago to participate in the Lucas race series. Thunder on the Green is now included in Lucas Oils list of points races. All Lucas Oil racers must compete in at least four races throughout the year in order to be considered for the annual championship.

At Thunder on the Green, boats race down a quarter-mile track set up on the Green River at Livermore between the Main Street and RV Park boat ramps. The boats take off from the Main Street Ramp and exit at the RV Park. The name of the event comes from the intense roar of the engines echoing across the Green River.

Boats compete in classes based on how fast they can complete the race. Classes range from 7-second boats, meaning the boat crosses the finish line only seven seconds after leaving the starting line, to 12-second boats. The boats race at speeds of up to 170 mph. There were approximately 54 boats that competed on Sunday. Please see the results from Thunder on the Green below.

There was much to see and do in between races the entire weekend. Fans had a wide range of dining selections to choose from hot dogs, hamburgers, brats, walking tacos, steak sandwiches and ice cones. Boy Scout Troop 35 was selling popcorn and walked up and down the strip providing free samples! There was a massage therapist providing free 10 minutes chair massages. Good music rang out the entire weekend in between the announcers calling of the time trials and races. The pit location was a great spot to just check out the boats and talk with their owners.

Thanks to all local residents who participated in the process:

• The Logsdon Family, Joey McCrystal of "Joeys Diesel & Equipment Repair", Chris Chambers of "Chambers Trucking", Jimbo Chambers, Thomas Kassinger, Larry Leach, David Edmonds, JR Ranburger and Mayor Sonny Renfrow in retrieving, repairing and returning the announcers stand from , at and back to the river side.
• Lloyd Vanover, Charlie Wells, Brandon Evans and Ricky Carter for their hard work on the riverside from the Main Street boat ramp to the RV Park boat ramp - cleaning it up from flood damage and quite likely contracting lots and lots of poison ivy!
• For everyone who pitched in trying to make this great weekend happen.

And thanks to the Kentucky Drag Boat Association, Lucas Oil and all Lucas Oil racers!

With the warmth of the sun, the river, good music, good food, the roar of engines and those wonderful drag boats such a very nice weekend we all had!

................It starts out quiet, but then.....look out!

.................And the race is on! ..............................Mayor Sonny Renfrow & Dallas Collier

Click below links for additional photos of Thunder on the Green:

"Thunder on the Green - August 27th, 2011"

"Thunder on the Green - August 28th, 2011"

August 20th - Repaired KDBA Announcer Stand

Over the past month, Livermore volunteers pulled the flood-damaged KDBA announcer stand out of the river, repaired the framework, reset the supports and returned the stand to its previous location, all in preparation for this coming weekends Thunder on the Green.

Thanks to the Logsdon family, the announcer stand was pulled out of the river and drug up the steep slope in order to be repaired.

The repair of the supports and announcer stand was completed this past week by Jimbo Chambers, David Edmonds, JR Ranburger, Thomas Kassinger and Sonny Renfrow.

On Saturday, the 20^th of August, another crew appeared on the scene: Joey McCrystal of "Joeys Diesel & Equipment Repair", Chris Chambers of "Chambers Trucking", Larry Leach, Sonny Renfrow, Thomas Kassinger and David Edmonds. Their challenge was to flip the repaired announcer stand right side up and move it down the steep hill back to the riverbank, for purposes of placing it on the reset supports and they made it look easy. You can rest assured, the maneuvering of this stand was a major job and completed in just a couple of hours!

Everyones hope is that any future flooding will not adversely affect this structure! Thanks to all who assisted in this marvelous re-engineering of a component that is most necessary in the world of boat racing!

August 20th - Riverwalk Further Extended

The next 90 feet of the Riverwalk was poured this morning. At 6:00 a.m., the volunteer "crew " showed up to repeat last weekend's exercise. The crew donated their time and energies to help the Livermore Enhancement Foundation's extension of the Livermore Riverwalk.

The "crew" was comprised of City Councilman, David Edmonds, who again donated the use of his equipment and experience to help with the Riverwalk extension; City Councilman, Chester Baldwin and Mayor Sonny Renfrow also returned for another weekend of "'working the concrete"; representatives from the Buck Creek Baptist Church, Livermore RV Parkand local Livermore residents returned (Karl Bradley, Ralph Thacker, David Hopper, Ricky Free, Derek Edmonds, Larry Leach and Thomas Kassinger), to pool their efforts at completing the total of 180 foot Riverwalk extension.

For a day that was calling for major rain storms, we certainly got lucky with the weather. Blue skies, sunny and mild - a beautiful morning to pour concrete! The City of Livermore and the Livermore Enhancement Foundation thank all who contributed their equipment, time, experience and expended their energies towards the River Walk of Livermore! "It Takes a Village" says it all!

A beautiful morning on the Livermore riverbank!

David Edmonds & Karl Bradley >

setting an engraved brick The Crew -

David Edmonds, Ricky Free, Derek Edmonds, Thomas Kassinger, Chester Baldwin, Larry Leach, David Hopper, Karl Bradley, Sonny Renfrow, Ralph Thacker

If you are interested in being a part of this River Walk project which will eventually connect the RV Park to the Rough River Nature Trail, a personalized engraved brick can be ordered for $180. This will provide another ten foot section of Livermores future six foot wide concrete River Walk. You can secure an order form online via Livermores website on the Livermore Enhancement Foundation tab: http://www.cityoflivermore.info/livermore_enhancement_foundation_inc

Or you can contact Mayor Sonny Renfrow or Dr. Ralph Thacker for an order form.

August 13th - Riverwalk Extended & Nature Trail Cleaned up

The Livermore Enhancement Foundation received grant monies from the Green River Community Foundation which is being applied towards the Riverwalk extension of approximately 200 feet. About ninety feet of concrete was poured Saturday morning on the uphill portion of the proposed extended walkway. At 6:30 am, volunteers, comprised of the Buck Creek Baptist Church Men's Group, local residents, City Council members, Livermore Enhancement Foundation members and the Mayor of Livermore were preparing for the arrival of the concrete truck, which arrived about 6:45 am. By 8:45 am, all the concrete had been poured, screed, finished and the 5 additional brick were in the process of being placed. We have finally reached the top of the hill and are once again on flat ground! We have approximately another 90 feet to pour, which will hopefully occur within a few days!

Many thanks to Roger Burden, Donald Dunn, Chester Baldwin, Bill Stephens, Doug Humphrey, Karl Bradley, David Edmonds, Derek Edmonds, Roy Stinogle and Mayor Sonny Renfrow.

Team work...............................David Edmonds..................Riverwalk ready for bricks

So much finishing to complete........................Part of the team effort

Dr. Ralph Thacker, Troop Leader of Boy Scout Troop 35 and the Boy Scouts arrived Saturday morning also, ready to work on the nature trail. Jerry Farmer and Jeffrey Nall arrived early and started working with Dr. Thacker on riverwalk cleanup and riverside cleanup! Troop 35 worked all morning on the Nature Trail, which is now open to the public again. After a hard morning's work, they lunched at the Pavilion and played just as hard on the river that afternoon!

Jerry Farmer, Jeffrey Nall & Dr. Ralph Thacker cleaning riverwalk & rivers' shore

and Kevin Hall working on the Nature Trail

Having lunch wiith the Mayor............................................................Troop 35

A good day for everyone! Thanks to all!

August 13th - Tennis Anyone?

For 4 hours these gentlemen enjoyed playing tennis at the Livermore Recreation Area, a part of Livermore Riverfront Park on the Green River. Such stamina and endurance!

Click on link below for additionalTennis Photos:

August 1st -2011 Flood Cleanup Continues

Will this flood cleanup never end? There's that unanswerable question again...............

The Green River Area Development District (GRADD) is providing helping hands with the continued flood cleanup via the National Emergency Grant. Those helping hands belong to Lloyd Vanover, Brandon Evans and Alex Sutton. They started working on the riverfront Monday, August 1st, in weather that isn't fit for dogs, much less humans! But, they have been diligent in pulling debris and uprooted trees from the water's edge which have been jamming the shores of the Green River. After sawing up the trees left behind by the flood, we've been granted approval to deal with them on site. The disposal of river debris has started. Once the trees have been removed, they weed eat along that area. It is a very slow and arduous process as the riverside is matted with flood residue and the weather is remarkably uncooperative. One can only appreciate their efforts after going down to the riverside and seeing the difference! We thank you all for your assistance!

********Lloyd Vanover, Charlie Wells, Brandon Evans& Ricky Carter************

*******************************************************************

News Release - August 1, 2011

Want to Research your Family Tree from Home?

Now you can through YOUR Library!

Your McLean County Public Library membership now allows you to access HeritageQuest online from the comfort and convenience of your own home. Simply type in the address:

http://www.heritagequestonline.com/barcode?aid=20498

THEN.....

.....type your library card number located on the back of your library card into the box labeled "Barcode", (for example P 123) and click "Connect" to start searching!

*******************************************************************

July 31st - Continued Flood Cleanup

With the KDBA Boat Races scheduled for August 27-28 on the Green River in Livermore, it clearly became evident that the flood damaged and sunken KDBA announcers stand needed to be raised and repaired. With the unit weight of the deck far surpassing anything one human being could lift, a ton truck including a cable and wench was enlisted for duty. However, after the cable broke two times, a new and improved solution was required.

The Logsdon family's equipment and manpower for the operation (Mark, Joseph & Andrew Logsdon) proved to be that successful solution! To give you an idea of how pleasant this work was, the thermometer registered 95 degrees in the shade, with a heat index of 102 degrees and lets not forget the humidity! Every step one took down by the river that day felt like one had concrete shoes on, with everything sticking to you!

Oh yes, there was also barge traffic making the operation a little more dicey what with the wake action on the sunken platform. But the damaged announcers stand is now out of the water awaiting repair. We thank the Logsdon family for their help and equipment!

*******************Andrew Logsdon & Joe Logsdon - operators***************

Ta-Da! The raised announcers stand!********Mayor Sonny Renfrow, Mark & Joe Logsdon

July 11th & 12th - Hottest days of 2011, but our City Workers are hard at it!

While the temperatures ranged between a blistering 95 and 100 degrees, the heat index was a debilitating 123 degrees, with the humidity pretty much near 100%, all of which contributed to 'zapping' one's strength and energy! While there were brown-outs and power outages across the state of Kentucky due toextensive useage of air conditioners, there were still those people here in Livermore who continued to work outside in this HOTweather. Here was the agenda:

1. Dig out roadway requiring repair on Hill Street(completed on Monday, July 11th)
2. Repair roadway prepped on the 11th with concrete (completed on Tuesday, July 12th)
3. Drink large quanties of water and Gatorade

We just wanted to bring to your attention those people dedicated to helping our community, regardless of what the weather brings to the mix. We would like to thank:

• Livermore city workers Ricky Carter, Derrek Priar and Isaac Smith for their tenacity, strength and patience while working on one of the many projects on Livermore's "To Do" list.
• We would also like to thank and acknowledge city councilman, David Edmonds, for volunteering his time, concrete tools, energiesand expertise during the road repair process on Hill Street.
• And finally, a thank you to Mayor Sonny Renfrow for his time, energies, concrete experience and commands of "Stop and rest for a few minutes".

And on Tuesday, the 12th, after the concrete work was completed in record time , the City Workers started mowing!

Let me repeat - the dedication and tenacity of these people must be commended! Thank you!

Ricky Carter, Isaac Smith, David Edmonds, Mayor Sonny Renfrow & Derek Priar

Click on below link to see how

We got from here ^ ....................................................................................................To here ^

July 06 - Another thank you letter from our Native American Friends

City Of Livermore

"All who took part in the Voyage for Native American Awareness 2011 would again like to offer our sincere thanks to the people of Livermore, Kentucky. Your interest in our culture and heritage, your hospitality, and your kindness will be treasured by us all. There are not words enough to say how much we appreciate our welcome there. When things got so bad from the storms we endured (equipment damaged and/or destroyed) it was Sonny and Ann Renfrow, and Jimbo Chambers to the rescue. They helped us get off the river during those storms and back to where we met with our land support team. Again, it was simply awesome how many of you came to our camp, there in Livermore, to talk and visit with us. We look forward very much to a trade camp in Livermore during Voyage for Native American Awareness 2012. We hope to see all of you there. Until then, since we have no words for good-bye, we will say dodadagohvi (until we all meet again) and we ask the Creator to bless and watch over you, one and all."

Participants and supporters of

Voyage for Native American awareness 2011"

As a final note on this adventure we have experienced through the eyes of "2 Feather", "Awahili", "Falling Water" and "Wind Walker", a presentation was made to Mayor Sonny Renfrow on the evening of our fireworks, July 2nd, by "Awahili". It was a signed token of our Native American Friends'appreciation for all of Livermore's support.This token was a framed photograph of Livermore'ssecond greatest asset (the Green & Rough Rivers), the first asset being the people themselves,of Livermore.

We thank you and look forward to your return in 2012!

Ann & Tony "Awahili" Robles presenting a a photo of Livermore's 2nd greatest asset (the first asset being theresidents of Livermore) to Mayor Sonny Renfrow.

July 02 - Livermore's Independence Day Celebration & Fireworks

The question was asked: "Wouldn't it be nice to have a fireworks celebration for this year's Independence Day?" and the rest is history.

• The Livermore Council Members and Mayor, Local businesses (B.F. Evans-Ford, A & S Fabricating, First Security Bank, Independence Bank, Ace Hardware),
• Livermore Organizations (Livermore Veterans, Livermore Lions Club, Livermore Woman's Club), and
• Local residents, Michael Chambers and Wayne Gillette.

All contributed funds towards a fireworks display.

The next question surfaced - "Shouldn't we try to provide food and drinks?" You guessed it...the rest is history.

• Ski Daddy's provided hotdogs
• ATMOS Energy provided hamburgers/buns & alsogrilledboth the hamburgers and hotdogs
• RCBottling Companyprovided beverages as well as their mobile service center
• The Livermore Woman's Clubfeatured home-made ice cream and Klondike bars
• The Dollar Store donated bottled water
• Livermore City Clerk donated hot dog buns, and condiments.

Let's not forget the music .......and the rest is history!!!!! Ray Wilkerson, family and friends provided wonderful music for three hours!

The Livermore Volunteer Fire Department, including the Chief and several members of the volunteer fire fighters were on hand with two units to provide safety and fire protection.

The weather cooperated - by not raining! Although, the temperature was a broiling 94 degrees with a heat index peaking at 102 degrees....and no wind! But that didn't stop the adults from dancing to the music, or the children from running and playing. If anything, it seemed to enhance the entire evening . Just around dark, there were probably about 500 onlookers awaiting the first onslaught of fireworks, but first there was a beautifulacappella version of the "Star Spangled Banner" sung by Cami Robertson of Knottsville, KY.

The fireworks then started and went on for a good 15-20 minutes. Comments from several people:

• "Well, I just saw one of the BEST fireworks displays I have ever seen in Livermore. I am grateful to those who made this possible.....Very nice freedom celebration for our little city! Thanks to all who helped!" (Joyce Newcom)
• "It was a very nice fireworks display!!" (Jennifer Hamilton)
• "It was really beautiful and a really good crowd." (Judi Hinton)
• "Way to go hometown." (Ardie Wilkerson)
• "Great fireworks - equal if not betterthan Disney World's fireworks!" (Candy Miller)

It was a most enjoyable event - good company, food, music, fun and fireworks. A wonderful way to celebrate our country's freedoms! A big thank you to all who came to enjoy thefun and a special thank you to all those who made this evening possible!

To see more photos, click on link below:

"Livermore Independence Day Celebration" photos

June 28 - Welcome to our little corner of the world!

Congratulations to B.J., Andrea (Livermore Asst. City Clerk) and Connor Shelton on your newest arrival today!

Annie Klaire Shelton

Born June 28, 2011 at 8:00 a.m.

21 inches long

8 pounds & 15 ounces

We here in Livermore, welcome you and look forward to meeting you first-hand. Until then, your photo will do nicely!

"Big Brother", Connor, "Mom", Andrea, and the "Newest Wonder", Annie Klaire

June 26- Severe Weather Interrupts Voyage of Native Americans

The Voyage of the Native Americans came to an abrupt halt Sunday morning around 1:30 am when a wind and rainstorm came through their camp, ripping tents and supplies apart. The storm contained high winds, severe lightening and heavy rainfall turning the banks and the river into a muddy mess. It rained continuously for 6 hours, after whichpoint they located anunused two-story structure, where they took shelter. "2 Feather" contacted Mayor Sonny Renfrow seeking assistancewith pinpointing their location and helping them back to dry land, which was accomplished in a few short hours. They do plan on driving to Henderson with their canoefor the Audobon Park Independence Day festivities, as previously planned. They again, thanked the residents of Livermore for being so kind, helpful and receptive to their cause. Speaking for the residents of Livermore "We enjoyed your entire visit and look forward to your return in 2012!"

Sonny Renfrow, Jimbo Chambers, Jerry Thornton ("2 Feather") & TonyRobles ("Awahili")

"Video Commentary on their Green River Adventure"

June 24 - 25- Riverside Cleanup (again)

Friday evening we found Dave Edmonds once again working on the riverwalk and adjacent area, clearing sand, dirt and debris. He graded, leveled and then rough tilled the soil around the riverwalk, smoothing it all out. By stirring up the soil, it will then have a chance to air dry and we should be able to once again plant grass.

Then Saturday morning found several of the Livermore Residents as well asBoy Scout Troop 35 down at the riverside, onthe ongoing "flood riverside cleanup mission".The Jimmy & Nolita Hillard family started bright and early recleaning the Tank Park aggregate concrete, chains and posts. All of the grandkids got into it as well and worked diligently under the guidance of their parents and grandparents.

About 11:00 am, Boy Scout Troop 35 arrived to re-install the boat ramp for our summer boaters. The river is running high at the moment, but the Scouts and their leaders were able to "rise" above these challenges.

Half of the Scouts then worked on the cleanup of the Nature Trail with leader Ralph Thacker and Sonny Clark and the other half assisted Mayor Sonny Renfrow in power washing the remaining benches, picnic tables, signage and restroom areas.

When the storm clouds, wind, lightening and ultimately the pouring rain finally arrived, we all decided it was a good day's work and time to leave.

Many thanks toeveryone who continues to come out and help the "flood cleanup" process! While it may seem to be a slow process, we must remember: "One Miracle at a Time"!

Jimmy & Nolita Hilliard Family, (Chloe, Greenlee, Mackenzie, Eaton, Austin & Doug)

Chester Baldwin, Sonny Renfrow, Ann Renfrow, David Edmonds, Sonny Clark, Brother Jeff Graham, Ralph Thacker, Rick Smith

Boy Scout Troop 35:

Parker Humphrey, A.J. Scott, Brandon Powers, Justin Graham, Jacob Murray, Malachi Williamson, Tyler McCoy & Draven Emery

June 25 -Native AmericansContinue their Journey

Jerry Thornton ("2 Feather") and Tony Robles ("Awahili", which means "Eagle") returned Saturday morning to continue their Native American Voyage to Henderson.At 9:00 am, they set off, travelingwith another canoe, manned by Bradley and Tyler Ferrie., who accompanied them through the Calhoun lock. After that experience, Bradley and Tyler left the journey and"2 Feather" and "Awahili" continued on their own. But they have communicated with us and indicated on that first leg of today's trip, all four of themwere treated to an additional traveling companion - another bald eagle! This annual Native American Voyage for Awareness, which originated in Rochester, KY, two weeks earlier,was also gifted with a bald eagle as a traveling companion - Charlie Wells of Livermore witnessed both the arrival of the Native Americans and the bald eagle- a sight truly to behold!

"Bon Voyage"!

"Awahili" * "2 Feather" Preparing forTony Robles, Jerry Thornton, Tyler Ferrie

Packing & Departure Bradley and Sonny Renfrow

They're on their way!

June 22 - The Residents of the City of Livermore received aThank You"

Sharing with you all a "Thank You" received from our American Native Kentucky friends who stayed with us down at the riverfront this past weekend:

To the City of Livermore

Osiyo (greetings) all,

We, all who are involved in the Voyage for Native American Awareness, wish to extend a sincere wado (thank you) to the city of Livermore and all the people there. I cant remember when we have had a bigger or better welcome than we had there in your beautiful city. When we rowed into town with our escort, a bald eagle, and saw your mayor, Sonny, and his wife Ann waiting for us at the boat dock, we knew it would go well there. We just didnt know HOW well. We no sooner had gotten our camp set up before many of you came to visit and make us welcome. We were awestruck as to the number of people that stopped by to welcome us, to bring us food, to make sure we were as comfortable as possible, and to share your history and culture while learning about ours. We enjoyed our time there more than I can say, and made many, many new friends. We also greatly enjoyed talking to and doing things with the children as they are the future of our country and the world.

We will be back there in Livermore on Friday, June 24^th, and will continue our journey from there, leaving on Saturday, June 25^th. Please feel free to come and visit with us on Friday before we leave. Again, we want to thank all of you for the great visit and the wonderful memories all of you gave to us. All of you take care and may the Creator bless and be with you in all that you do.

Native Americans of Kentucky

P.S. for the children

Osiyo (O-see-yo) the only recognized greeting in Cherokee

Wado (wah-doe) thank you

Sgi (ski)you are welcome

Tsiyu usti (chee-you uu-stee)Tsi yu (boat)usti (little or small) = canoe

There are no words for good-bye

Donadagohvi (doe-nah-dah-go-huh-ee) until we meet again...to one person

Dodadagohvi (doe-dah-dah-go-huh-ee) until we meet again...to more than one person

June 18/19 - Such an Enlightening Weekend!

Many will agree that his past weekend flew by! Our Native American Visitors/Friends "showered" uswith stories, lore and knowledge of their rich heritage. Yes, it rained hard and the winds were strong as they blew down that river, but none of that dissuaded or disheartened our new found Friends. If anything, it made the visit that much more pleasant for everyone, Livermorites and Visitors alike!

We were treated to an educational as well as a cultural event at our riverside. As reported in earlier posts, The Voyage for the Native American Awareness 2011 offered the citizens a rich insight into the Native American people inthe Commonwealth of Kentucky. This second annual canoe trip originated on June 13th, where a canoe entered the water on the downriver side of Lock #3 on the Green River (at Rochester). That canoe arrived here in Livermore two days early. They learned that we, as a Community, were still in thethroes of flood cleanup and decided to arrive early in order to offer their assitance with the cleanup. Truly a demonstration of Kentucky's rich historical heritage in 'taking care of each other'.

ARRIVAL!

"Falling Water" and "2 Feather"

Jerry Thornton, who's Indian name is "2 Feather" and his canoe partner Don Stringham, arrived mid-afternoon on Wednesday, the 15th of June andwere planningon continuing their journey to Curdsville and then Henderson on Monday, the 20th. Over this past weekend a "trade camp" was set up down by the river to highlight support for Native American issues in Kentucky and to allow the public to see and take part in activities. "2 Feather" and Don Stringham (who we fondly called "Falling Water", since there was much water falling out of the skies Saturday and Sunday!), provided an opportunity to experience the Rough and Green rivers from the perspective of the Indian canoe, paddled by "2 Feather". It was a wonderful experience!

We also had some local "Flint Knappers" (Joel Robinson and Larry Brown) join in at this Native American Awareness event. They demonstrated how the Indians in the past were able to make their tools and weapons by "knapping" orstriking a large stone with a copper tool, in such a way that they were able to form and shapeit intouseful tools.

Larry Brown & Joel Robinson Some results of their "knapping"

The Trading camp was operated by "Wind Walker" (Robert Johnson), who was terrific with all ofhis explanations and clarifications to the 'traders'. He provided beads to the children for them to create their own Indian bracelets and explained that the deer hides, rabbit skins, pipes, etc., that were on display in his Trading Tent, were all used in the process of Indian Trading.

"Wind Walker", Trader at the Trading Camp Trader - "Wind Walker"

Due to the heavy rains this past weekend as well as one of the Voyagers needing to pull out of the Voyage due to health reasons, the Voyagers will delay the continuation of their journey, departing from Livermore, until this coming weekend (Saturday morning), the 25th of June. This will allow time for weather improvement and for a replacement to join the Voyage. While the journey will continue, the Trading Camp at Curdsville will no longer be one of the stops, due to inclementweather adversely affecting the landing sight. However, the journey will continue onto Henderson, on schedule.

Several people have exhibited an interest in joing the primary Voyagers on the continuation of this journey Saturday, the 25th. The public is invited to participate in all or in a portion of the trip and will be most welcome. For more information on this event, you can view the web site at:

http://www.thepeopleofthehuntingground.com/Voyage_for_Native_American_Awareness_2011.html

Additionally, you can see what transpired in Livermore over the weekend while the Native Americans were visiting with us, at Livermore's website: http://www.cityoflivermore.info/2011_-_news.

The websitewww.ornaic.com Ohio River Native American Inter-tribal Community, is the site/Community that "2 Feather", "Wind Walker" and Don Stringham("Falling Water"), belong to and another resource for exploring the Native Americans of Kentucky.

As a final note, "2 Feather", "Falling Water" and"Wind Walker" are already in planning mode for next year. They would very much like to return to Livermore on their 3rd Annual Voyage for Native American Awareness in 2012! They wish to thank the residents of Livermore for their hospitality, kindness and generosity with their time. An additional note of thanks to Tom & Joyce Newcom, Deanna & Dave Edmonds and the Jimmy & Nolita Hillard families, who graciously provided them meals! There were Dairy Freeze burgers, beans and cornbread, meatloaf meals, a meal from Old Hickory, and pork chops with all of the fixins'! Not to mention the air pots of coffee that were so enjoyed in the morning hours.

And the residents of Livermore would like to express their appreciation totheir new found Friends! The exchange of ideas and the information shared by all has truly been an eye opener! We look forward to 2012! Until next year..............

June 16 - True to their word....

After a restful night on the banks of the Green and Rough Rivers,Jerry Thornton and Don Stringham spent time visiting with local residents who stopped by to chat.They found a location where they could wash their clothes (difficult to bring a full set of luggage in a canoe, you know!) compliments of one of the locals.Jerry and Donreally were anxious to start helping the Livermorites out with their flood cleanup, but most folks who were able, were at work, sothey continued to wait for some guidance on what needed to be done for cleanup. About 4:30 in the afternoon, folks started showing up and once again cleanup ensued on the Pavilion.In the middle of this cleanup, local residents, Tom & Joyce Newcom, brought supper for Jerry and Don, (from the Dairy Freeze in Island) and they raved about those burgers!

While they dined, Sonny Renfrow went over to the Riverwalk, where Dave Edmonds (Councilman) had brought his tractor with attached bucket, and they started to work on the removal of dirt, sand and debris from the walkway. Dave had already cleared much of the debris from the roadway (1st Street or as we all know it now, Dr. Sam's Street). The walkway is now ready for a thorough "brooming" - whichwill bemuch more manageable with the removal of 6 inches of "river residue"! Thanks Dave & Sonny!

If anyone would like to help clear off the remaining sand and dirt from the Riverwalk, just bring your broom and start sweeping. Just a few yards of concrete sweeping would help! One miracle at a time you know - and we must remember Rome wasn't built in a day.....but I digress.

Back to the Pavilion we all went to finish the 3rd pressure washing of the floor. By this time dusk was well past and it was just plain 'dark'. Some photos are attached, but they are way blurry! Those guys were really moving! But did they get the job done? You bet! We can't thank our visitors and locals enough for all of their help in giving us a jumpstart on flood cleanup!

Dave Edmonds & Sonny Renfrow working on Riverwalk clearing sand, dirt and river residue.

Working in the semi-dark and moving fast, these photos are unfortunately pretty blurry! But they certainly do reflect the energy expelled in the pressure-washing of the pavilion floor!

June 15 - The Voyage for the Native American Awareness ....

....A canoe representing this voyage has arrived here in Livermore two days early. They learned that we, as a Community, were still in the throes of flood cleanup and decided to arrive early in order to offer their assistance with the cleanup. Truly a demonstration of Kentucky's rich historical heritage in 'taking care of each other'.

Jerry Thornton, who's Indian name is "2 Feather" and his canoe partner Don Stringham, arrived mid-afternoon on Wednesday, the 15th of June and plan on continuing their journey to Curdsville and then Henderson on Monday, the 20th. Over the weekend, Saturday and Sunday, a "trade camp" will be set up down by the river to highlight support for Native American issues in Kentucky and to allow the public to see and take part in activities.

Mayor Sonny Renfrow greeting "2 Feather" (Jerry Thornton) and Don Stringham

"2 Feather" (Jerry Thornton), Don Stringham,

Mayor Sonny Renfrow & Connor Shelton

The beautiful canoe below was given to "2 Feather" (Jerry Thornton) by "Roaring Thunder" (Frank Cook) in 2009 after their Ohio River Voyage. "Roaring Thunder" of the Lakota Tribe is an Elder and spiritual leader. These "Voyages for Native American Awareness" came about because of his vision to promote this awareness and educate the public about the native Americans in Kentucky. "2 Feather" expresses his gratefulness for "Roaring Thunder's" inspirational guidance and vision in setting up these voyages as do all native American people in our Commonwealth.

For more information, check out their website:

http://www.thepeopleofthehuntingground.com/Voyage_for_Native_American_Awareness_2011.html

June 18/19 - Coming to Livermore:

Voyage For Native American Awareness 2011

Livermore will be part of the "Voyage of Native American Awareness 2011". A three (3) week canoe trip has been planned. The journey will start on June 11th on the downriver side of Loce #3 on the Green River (at Rochester) and will travel to the junction of the Ohio River at Henderson, Kentucky. There will be three (3) "trade camps" set up along the trip to highlight support for Native American issues in Kentucky and to allow the public to see and take part in activities. The first "trade camp" will be set up in Livermore (at the river) on June 18th and 19th. Several canoes are expected to make this second historic voyage and the public is invited to participate in all or in a portion of the trip.

Craft vendors are still needed at the Livermore Trade Camp those interested, please contact Mazashawi (Penny Cook) at 270-257-2886 or darlylj@yahoo.com or 2 Feather (Jerry Thornton) at 502-354-0123 or usdiwaya@insightbb.com.

For more information on this event you can view their web site at:

http://www.thepeopleofthehuntingground.com/Voyage_for_Native_American_Awareness_2011.html

Hope to see you there!

June 14 - New Look for our Library!

Come and enjoy what the Livermore Community Library has to offer! We have a new logo, a new look and lots of plans on the horizon. And don't forget to sign up for the One World, Many Stories summer reading program- a program for all ages. It will be every Wednesday at 10:00 am for abour 1 1/2 hours starting June 15 through July 20.

Library's new look -

June 11 - Livermore Pavilion

Flood cleanup continues - Local residents donated their time, energy and equipment to start cleanup on the Pavilion area. Some of the photos, while not necessarily attractive, do reflect the work required for cleanup. It was a start, but there is so much more work required on the pavilion area. If you too would like to get involved in the cleanup of your Community, please contact City Hall (270-278-2113). Summer's here and we need to make our riverfront once again presentable not only for our own citizens but also for those folks who come in for our river activities.

Ralph Wetzel & Sonny Renfrow Junie Hudson & Sonny Renfrow

pressure-washing and scrubbing tables preparing to scrub restrooms

June 10 - Look what's happening at the Cleat Johnson Ballpark Facility!

There has been some excitement at the Cleat Johnson Ballpark Facility!A concrete padwas newly poured just this morning for the new pavilion built by the Livermore Summer Recreational Youth Baseball Program participants. It will serve dual purposes: (1) a pavilion for attendees at the baseball games where picnic tables will be placed & (2) when not in use for the public, it will be set up with netting around it for batting practice for the players. Now we have a covered area from which to watch the games and to get in out of the sun - come on down and enjoy some friendly rivalry and sportsmanship.

...........Lee Edwards, Dave Edmonds, ............................Dave Edmonds, Lee& Cameron Edwards

Isaac Humphrey & Cameron Edwards

Completed new pavilion

June 06 - Calling All World Travelers!!

McLEAN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY LAUNCHES SUMMER READING PROGRAM

Readers of all ages will travel the globe this summer as McLean County Public Library presents One World, Many Stories during their summer reading program. Children will explore places from Oceania to Russia through stories, crafts, music, dance and other activities. The 2011 Summer Reading Program is open to young people, preschool through adult, with programs, prize drawings, story hours, a reading club and more. Families are invited to join the Read-to-Me portion of the program. Registration for One World, Many Stories begins on June 15, 2011 at 10 am. For more information, call the library at 270-278-9184 or email us at mcleancopubliclibrary@gmail.com.

May 30, 2010 - Veterans start flood cleanup at Tank Park

Flood waters have receded and cleanup has begun. The Veterans in Livermore were out all day at the Tank Park pressure washing the tank as well as the surrounding walkway where the bricks have been engraved with past Veterans' names and branch of service. The waters took a nasty toll on the entire area, so cleaning took a good bit more time. But the names on the bricks are once again readable and the tank has been polished up for viewing. Thanks to our local Vets for their support and assistance!

Jimmy Hillard and Ralph Wetzel power washing the aggregate concrete

(photos provided by Sonny Renfrow)

May 20 - McLean County Public Library

After just three weeks, the new team at the library, headed by Aimee Newberry - Director, Jason Peek - Assistant Director and Tina Dame - Library Clerk, have made tremendous progress. Come on down to the library, introduce yourselves and see what's happening. Change is what it's all about. You'll like it!

http://cityoflivermore.info/library

Jason Peek, Aimee Newberry & Tina Dame

The "Library Beagle"

This little beagle patiently waits in front of the Library for his master to come back outside.

May 12 - Livermore City Council Events

City Council's Agenda was full this month, but two items stood out.

1) Sonny Renfrow, Livermore City Council, presented to Darrell Bishop of the Livermore Summer Recreational Youth Baseball Program, $1,200 in funding for improvements at the Cleat Johnson Ballpark Facility, ($600 was provided by the Fiscal Court and $600 in matching funds from the City of Livermore).

Sonny Renfrow & Darrell Bishop

2) Two Livermore citizens were sworn into their new positions by city attorney, John Hicks. Todd Zuehl is the new Zoning Administrator, City of Livermore and Earlene Kassinger is now a member of the McLean County Joint Planning Commission.

Todd Zuehl & Earlene Kassinger John Hicks, Todd Zuehl & Earlene Kassinger

Congratulations to all!

May 1 -and the waters continue to rise.....

The month of April has provided such a collection of weather-related events adversely affecting our riverfront and all areas remotely close to the river. Flood waters and sand-bagging continue to rise as the rains and bad weather infiltrate our beloved Kentucky. The photos below provided by Tom & Joyce Newcom, local residents, say it all:

.................First & Main Streets ...................................Newcom's yard .......................

..............Newcom's front yard .................................Newcom's side yard ..................

...Even the Terrapin's are out & about ...........Thank heavens they make rubber boots!

"Yea - Sunshine!"

April 28 - Can you say 'Rain"?

Tornados, rain, straight line winds - where will all of this H2O be in July? The Green and Rough Rivers are blossoming and threatening to flood - perhaps as extensively as the floods back in 1997. For two weeks straight, we have been experiencing rain which has exponentially been expanding the river banks into local residents back yards and basements. Our RV Park has had to have all of the RV's evacuated to higher ground. And they say, there's more to rain come:

April 1 - Blue Ribbon Campaign -

April is National "Child Abuse Prevention" Month. The Livermore Woman's Club (LWC) is focusing on the prevention of childabuse with its various issues and potentional resolutions during the month of April with a 5-part series of weekly articles in the McLean County paper, regarding this national problem. There is a social movement working to change the way the nation and Kentuckians think about child abuse prevention.

There are several organizations supporting public awareness of this horrific issue, one of which is the "Blue Ribbon Campaign". In 1989, the Blue Ribbon Campaign to Prevent Child Abuse began as a Virginia grandmother's tribute to her grandson whose battered body was found at the bottom of a canal. By tying a blue ribbon - signifying the pain and bruises suffered by abused children - around the antennae of her van, Bonnie Finney sought to raise awareness of the devastating effects of child abuse and neglect. Since those early days in the 1980's, the Blue Ribbon Campaign has grown into a national effort to raise awareness of the scope and problem of child maltreatment. The blue ribbon, often worn during April for Child Abuse Prevention Month, serves as the most recognized symbol for child abuse prevention.

The LWC has distributed about 100 blue bows to local businesses in Livermore, Calhoun, Island, Sacramento and Beech Grove and distributed over 800 blue lapel pins in an effort to bring our community to an awareness of the prevention of child abuse.

"Neighborhood Flowers" in Livermore"Blue Jays Restaurant" in Sacramento

" BB&T Bank" in Calhoun"Sacramento Deposit Bank" in Sacramento"

March 20, 2011 - Spring has sprung!

Finally, it would seem Mother Nature is on our side! The Ground Hog made his prediction, the snows have melted, the rivers have flooded, St. Paddy's Day hascome and gone and now we've had two days in the near 70's?! and sunshine???? The Daffodils are blooming as are the crocus and the Blue Birds are back! Woo Hoo!!

March 18, 2011 -Library Upgrades Continue

The original front doors, while effective for keeping out the bugs, was not effective in keeping out the heat in the summer or the cold in the winter. The new Board of Trustees have had a new door installed replacing the main original door and removed the second door. No more drafts! The new door will also provide for more cost-effective heating and cooling bills!

New Library Front Door

The Children's area has new seating furniture in the shapes of books, book spines and an erasure. There's more furniture to come, but you can view belowthe current new seating configuration for the children.

Children's Reading Area

March 12, 2011 -Pancake Breakfast

Boy Scout Troop 35 had a beautiful day to host their Pancake Breakfast! From 7 am to 10 am at Livermore City Hall, the scouts and their leaders were flipping those flap jacks and serving them with sausage, bacon, orange juice and coffee. It was definitely a great way to start a Saturday morning!

March 12, 2011 - Rain, rain, go away - Come again another day!

Which came first? The drought or the flood or the drought or the flood ...... and on and on and on? Regardless, it is now evidently the time for flooding and the photos below support this theory!

January 29, 2011 - "It's Official" ! McLean County Public Library

Update on Library Facility:

The Livermore Community Library was founded in the 1950s by the Livermore Womans Club and the City of Livermore. The Library was moved to its present location in 1984 and was funded by the City of Livermore with support from the Livermore Woman's Club. The Library is approved as a 501(c) (3) foundation that can receive tax exempt donations to fund and enhance its purposes for readership throughout the community.

The building housing the Library is a historic building. It has housed a Barber Shop, Soda Shop, retail Television Sales store and the Livermore Post Office.

In 2008, the McLean County Fiscal Court received a $100,000 state grant to aid in getting the Library up to standards set by the Kentucky Department of Libraries. An elevator was installed and four (4) new computers were added. The lower level of the Library was repainted; new carpeting installed; and shelving was rearranged. All of the books were culled and many new books were added to the collection, providing a wide variety of subjects from which to select. The Livermore Woman's Club completed the process of re-sorting through all of the books and replacing them on the shelves, according to approved library standards.

On August 14, 2009, Congressman Ed Whitfield presented a $150,000 check to the Livermore Community Library and McLean County Fiscal Court . The U.S. House of Representatives approved funding requested by Whitfield and Sen. Jim Bunning for the McLean County Livermore Community Library Training and Educational Development Project. This was for purposes of expanding the services offered by the Library and to provide new educational tools. The funds were intended to help purchase computers, teaching equipment and to develop training seminars at the Livermore Community Library. With the $150,000 allocation of the 2010 Congressional Directed Grant for Libraries, the funds were budgeted as follows:

• Staff (2 fulltime and 1 part-time) @ $64,984

• Print Collection @ $105,000

• 5 Computers/Workstations and 1 laptop @ $6,000

• Circulation/On-line Software and Equipment @ $7,000

• LCD Projector, screen and speakers @ $6,000

• Furniture @ $5,250

• Security system @ $3,500.

The Library now has eight workstations offering MS Office programs and the Internet. Wi-FI is also available if a library patron wishes to use their own laptop. Before using either the Wi-Fi or the library's workstations, patrons must read and agree with the Library's Computer Use Policy. Parents must give permission for their child to use the computers by signing a form provided by the Library. Also available to Library patrons is the use of World Book Online and NewsBank. These are all databases that can be used for research or pleasure reading.

The upstairs Art Gallery/Conference room will be used for civic meetings and for educational activities. The room has been equipped with a Smart Board and speakers and conference tables and chairs.

The Library catalog will be online in the near future. Patrons will be able to check the status of books from their home workstation or the library's workstation. Patrons will be receiving a library card for faster checkouts. This will be a time of transition because new books coming in will be given barcode numbers and older materials will need to be added to the database.

The Library features several seating and reading areas, including one designed specifically for children. There will soon be new furniture for the childrens story area.

For a fee, the Library provides a fax, copier and printer services.

A collection of genealogy research materials are available for Library patrons.

Additionally, effective November 9, 2010, the former Livermore Community Library became a county supported library and is known as the McLean County Public Library. It is operated and managed by The McLean County Public Library Board of Trustees:

• Hugh Montgomery, from the NE magisterial district; term expires 12/30/2014

• David Scott, from the NW magisterial district; term expires 12/30/2013

• Doug Everly is from the SW magisterial district; term expires 12/30/2013

• Kathy Gish from the SE magisterial district; term expires 12/30/2012

• Dianna Hoover serves as a member-at-large; term expires 12/30/2012

The Trustees are beginning the staff selection process and are advertising and accepting applications through the McLean County Career Center, 270-273-9023. The new Library hours of operation will be established upon completion of selection and training of library staff.

The Library is still accepting donations, monetary or reading materials, however, only reading materials that are no older than 4 years, unless a classic. There is a stipulation that if the Library cant use the donation, that the person donating it agree to allow the Library to sell it or donate it to some other organization or library.

You are invited to participate in the continuing growth of the McLean County Public Library and may show your support by joining the McLean County Friends of the Library which meets March 7^th at 7:00pm and the first Monday of every other month after that.

January 20, 2011 - Can you say SNOW?

The first 20 days of the New Year have pretty much been cold, windy and snow-filled. Joyce Newcom was most gracious in allowing the City of Livermore to publish her beautiful photos taken this morning. She is a local resident of Livermore and close friend to both the Rough and the Green Rivers! Thank you Joyce!

Brrrrrrrrr!

Rough River........................................ Green River

Confluence of the Rough and the Green Rivers

January 1, 2011

Happy New Year !!

If you have any other "Current Positive Happenings" and/or photos you would like to share with the Community, please contact  Andrea Shelton at 270-278-2113.

If corrections are required, also please advise Andrea and she will see that the web site is updated. 

Thank you for your support!