Hello Rising Sun,

Happy Tuesday! I hope you enjoy this week's story, local events, and community happenings.

Thank you for reading, and have a wonderful week!

Peggy

If you've driven past the American Legion, you've probably noticed the large banner celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Sons of the American Legion.

At first, I thought the American Legion in Rising Sun was celebrating 50 years. After Evan and I stopped in for lunch this week and visited with members, then later spent some time at the Ohio County Historical Society looking through historic photographs, I discovered there was much more to the story.

The American Legion has been part of the Rising Sun community for generations. In fact, photographs from the Ohio County Historical Society show Post 59 already serving local veterans and families in the 1950s. The anniversary being celebrated this year is for the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 59, which was chartered in 1976 and is now celebrating 50 years of service to our community.

While the American Legion was founded nationally in 1919 by veterans returning from World War I, the Sons of the American Legion was created in 1932 so sons, grandsons, and other eligible male descendants of veterans could carry on the Legion's mission of service. Rising Sun's local Sons Squadron has proudly continued that tradition since 1976.

As I visited with members at Post 59, one thing became very clear—they take pride in serving not only veterans, but the entire community.

One project they were especially proud of this year was helping bring the Hometown Hero Veteran Banners to Rising Sun. Those banners, displayed throughout town, honor local veterans and serve as a lasting reminder of the men and women who have served our country.

Throughout the year, members organize fundraisers and volunteer countless hours to assist veterans and their families, especially families who have lost loved ones. They also support local schools, 4-H, Boy Scouts, senior citizen groups, and many other organizations throughout Ohio County. Much of what they do happens quietly behind the scenes, but their impact can be felt throughout the community.

During my visit, I also learned that many people don't realize there are actually three organizations that make up what is known as the Legion Family. The American Legion is made up of eligible military veterans, the American Legion Auxiliary consists of eligible family members of veterans, and the Sons of the American Legion is made up of eligible male descendants of veterans. Together, they work side by side to support veterans, promote patriotism, and strengthen communities like Rising Sun.

During our visit, Evan and I both enjoyed cheeseburgers and fries, and I was pleasantly surprised by the variety of menu options. Since the dining room is open to the public, stopping in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner is a great way to support an organization that continually gives back to our community.

If you've served in the military or have a qualifying family connection to a veteran, membership opportunities are available at Post 59. By joining, you'll become part of a tradition of service that continues to make a difference in Rising Sun and Ohio County.

Congratulations to the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 59 on celebrating 50 years of service. Thank you to the entire Legion Family at Post 59 for the countless hours you dedicate to honoring veterans, supporting local organizations, and making Rising Sun a stronger community.

🥗 Free "Food is Medicine" Program Begins Tuesday

Looking for a free program to help you eat healthier?

Purdue Extension Ohio County and Health First are offering a FREE Food is Medicine program beginning Tuesday, August 4, from 5:30–7:30 PM at the Purdue Extension Office (412 Main Street, Rising Sun).

Participants will learn about the Mediterranean diet, enjoy food demonstrations, receive healthy food boxes with recipes, and can earn incentives by attending the series.

If you've been wanting to improve your eating habits but weren't sure where to start, this is a great local opportunity.

📞 Questions? Contact Purdue Extension at 812-438-3656 or email [email protected]. 📄 See the flyer below for more details.

(August 4– August 10, 2026)

📚 Ohio County Public Library
• 9:30 AM – Tai Chi with Rosie
• 1:00 PM – Relaxing with Watercolor

🥗 Food is Medicine Program
5:30–7:30 PM
Purdue Extension Office (412 Main St.)
FREE healthy eating program begins.
📄 See the flyer below for more details.

📚 Ohio County Public Library
• 9:00 AM – Walking Club
• 9:30 AM – Chair Yoga
• 1:00 PM – Learn to Crochet

🏛️ City Council Meeting — 6:00 PM
📍 City Hall Council Chambers

📚 Ohio County Public Library
• 9:00 AM – Walking Club
• 9:30 AM – Chair Yoga

🛍️ First Friday Night Market
• 10:00 AM–8:00 PM
📍 Rising Sun Market Place (201 Main St.)
Extended shopping hours, ice cream, and more!

🎵 Pavilion Entertainment at Rising Star Casino
What About Jane Trio
4:00–7:00 PM

Enjoy an afternoon of classic rock, country, and more featuring favorites from Heart, Fleetwood Mac, the Eagles, Lainey Wilson, Miranda Lambert, The Judds, and other popular artists.

📚 Ohio County Public Library
🚶 Walking Club — 9:00 AM
🧘 Chair Yoga — 9:30 AM

📢 Community Announcements

Applications are now open! Eligible Rising Sun High School seniors planning to attend an Indiana college or university should apply by Friday, August 14, at 3:00 p.m.

📞 Questions? Contact Tracy Stegemiller at 812-438-9401 or [email protected].

Applications are now open for local nonprofit organizations seeking funding for community projects. Applications are due Friday, August 21, at 3:00 p.m.

📞 Questions? Contact Tracy Stegemiller at 812-438-9401 or [email protected].

Featured Listing

Ohio River Property for Sale

Nearly 5 acres with river frontage, a large detached garage/workshop with additional potential living space, and beautiful views of the Ohio River.

Learn more → (link to the listing)

Have an event, announcement, or story idea? Just hit reply—I’d love to hear from you!

See you next week,
Peggy Jones