Orleans built by people who cared; a look at the Greene County Relay for Life

Orleans was founded in 1815 and the town was incorporated in 1865. Since the earliest days Orleans has been dedicated to progress, with a strong sense of community, built on family and basic Hoosier values. May 11-15 it celebrated Municipal Government Week.

Clerk-Treasurer (and serious Lincoln scholar) Robert Henderson led the town in the recognition of the work and services provided by the civic employees. Orleans is a town that works.

We celebrated the men and women who offer their talents and dedication to the place we call home. It was a time to remember great efforts from those good people who serve our community so well. It was nice to be away from Indianapolis and the hand-wringing.

It was a time to recognize the legacy left to our community by individuals like John D. Elrod and Gene Lynton. They were men who always had time for our children and who always tried to make Orleans a better place for all of us. It is my honor to pay respects to Ed Moffat who left his family, and this world all too soon. Ed was the Orleans chief of police, a man respected for his wisdom, loved for his compassion and dedicated to the protection of his community. We loved Ed and we miss him; we thank Melba for sharing him with us.

The Orleans' Little League Baseball Field was dedicated to John D. Elrod and Gene Lynton. This is a living monument to men who gave of themselves so that our children could learn the lessons of sports and wholesome enjoyment. They will not be forgotten. Their spirit will continue to be a positive influence. It is our duty to pay it forward.

The recognition of Orleans would not be complete without a mention of the institution known as Kirby Hardware. For years, Joe Bradley has provided a place to purchase most everything anyone needs, but more importantly, he has provided a place where people can gather and discuss the events of the world, drink pop and spin incredible yarns. (Sometimes from the "Liars' Bench) Russell Fancher, Leonard Vaught, Sam Houston and Joe have calmly discussed all manners of things, though they usually leave any conclusions for a later date. Russell and Sam will celebrate their birthdays in August, both will be what? 95?

Joe, the leader of the pack and my good friend, has been going through some serious health issues. I wish him well and look forward to his return. Joe, we need you at the store! Those guys are getting out of hand!

How could we talk about Orleans without congratulating Kenny and Madge Newlin, Citizens of the Year!

As a guest of Sheriff Richard Dixon, I met with the Southwest Indiana Sheriff's Association in French Lick. Orange County Sheriff Richard Dixon and Lawrence County Sheriff Sam Craig and the sheriffs from surrounding counties talked with me about the past legislative session, our accomplishments and their needs. Sheriff Dixon, Sheriff Craig, and Sheriff Tony Dant of Martin County have told me how much money their counties could save by the enactment of our Sheriffs' Bill regarding inmate health care. I appreciated the opportunity to be there and I enjoyed speaking with each of them.

There are some things more important than politics. "Look to your health - and if you have it, praise God - and value it next to a good conscience, for health is a blessing that money cannot buy"; Izaak Walton gave us that wisdom long ago.

I was the guest of the Greene County Relay for Life celebration in Bloomfield on May 15. I was asked to speak as a cancer survivor. Cancer awareness is a topic I care deeply about.

Connie Anderson, Sharon Davidson, and Nicole Cox worked hard putting the event together. I cannot thank all the others who helped with the details personally, but I appreciate their effort.

The community support for the Relay for Life event in all the counties of our district is exciting, Communities coming together, uniting to fight a common enemy, shows what we can accomplish.

Megan Gainey was at the Bloomfield event with her father Brian and grandmother Ann; it is important to have children involved in activities that help others, without thought of personal gain. I had the pleasure of meeting Red Oliphant who expressed his support for the Relay and talked about how important this is.

Cancer is not something that just happens to other people; I can attest to that. Protect yourself - have your annual examinations. Cancer is a damnable and hateful thing. It relies on our reluctance to have our checkups. It thrives on denial.

I live, work and pray for the day when we can drive this disease from our children, grandchildren and loved ones. Until that time comes, we must never give in -- we can never give up -- we will not quit fighting! We will not live in fear!

Support your local Relay for Life!

State Rep. Sandy Blanton can be reached by e-mail at h62@in.gov or by telephone at 1-800-382-9842.