Community briefs

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Family programming coming to libraries in February

GREENFIELD – Several programs are coming up for children and teens this February at local libraries.

A Groundhog Day Celebration kicks off February activities especially designed for kids at the Hancock County Public Library Feb. 2 at the central branch, 900 W. McKenzie Road, Greenfield. The Greenfield library will also host a Year of the Dragon Party Feb. 7, Read to Cleo the Opossum Feb. 11, and All About Chickens Feb. 22. In New Palestine, a Valentine craft program is Feb. 13 at 5731 W. U.S. 52, New Palestine; a “Tiny Art Show Workshop” for children and teens is set for Feb. 21 in New Pal. Libraries offer storytimes throughout the month, with some time slots still open for registration. Visit hcplibrary.org for more.

In Fortville, a STEAM Club for homeschool families is set for Feb. 23 at the Vernon Township Public Library, 625 E. Broadway St., Fortville. The VTPL is hosting an after-school Lego Club Feb. 7 and 21 at Fortville Elementary School. Visit vtpl.lib.in.us for details. Bentley’s Buddies, therapy dogs that “listen” to reluctant readers, will be at the VTPL Feb. 17, and both branches of the HCPL Feb. 18.

For teens and “tweens,” a chess club is available in New Palestine every Monday. The Sugar Creek branch in New Pal is also hosting a Mardis Gras Masks program Feb. 6, and Homeschool Writing Club Feb. 9. In Greenfield, teens in grades 6-12 can drop in Feb. 8 to make their own valentines; all materials will be provided.

Many programs are available for multiple age groups at local libraries in February. The children’s room at the Greenfield library will unveil a new artistic exhibit with a reception Feb. 1. A puzzle swap takes place in February, with drop-off Feb. 5-12 and pick up Feb. 16-18. Hedgehog Hannah will provide hands-on experience with animals Feb. 12 at both branches of the HCPL. Prepare for the solar eclipse in an all-ages event Feb. 20 featuring Rick Galloway of the Indiana Astronomical Society at the Greenfield library. The New Palestine branch will feature a musical performance by the Pork & Beans Brass Band Feb. 7 just in time for Mardi Gras, featuring traditional and current brass band hits from the Crescent City. Register for programs at hcplibrary.org.

GBC acquires trust portfolio from New Castle

GREENFIELD – A trust portfolio from Citizens State Bank of New Castle was recently acquired by GBC Bank and GBC Bank Wealth Management, according to a press release from GBC Bank.

The strategic move marks a milestone in the bank’s commitment to expanding services and footprint, and strengthening the bank’s position in the financial industry in central Indiana, according to the release.

“Both the teams at GBC Bank and Citizens State Bank have worked tirelessly for a seamless transition,” said Michael Graf, president & CEO of GBC Bank. “We look forward to serving these new customers and thank Citizens State Bank for their trust in us to do so.”

Superintendents to speak at February event

GREENFIELD – The State of Education in Hancock County will be the topic of discussion at an upcoming meeting of the Greenfield Area Chamber of Commerce.

Guest speakers are the superintendents of all four public school corporations: Dr. Lisa Lantrip, Southern Hancock; Dr. Harold Olin, Greenfield-Central; Dr. Jack Parker, Mt. Vernon; and Dr. George Philhower, Eastern Hancock.

The event will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 6 at NineStar Connect, 2243 E. Main St., Greenfield. Cost is $15. Register by Feb. 1 at greenfieldcc.org.

“Joy”ful teachers conference returns to EHHS

CHARLOTTESVILLE – Joy Jam returns this summer to Eastern Hancock schools.

The educational conference will be July 15-16 at Eastern Hancock High School. The event is designed to bring joy to educators, not only with speakers, but also a candy room, coffee shop and a puppy room for participants to enjoy. Registration is open now; follow the link via facebook.com/EasternHancockSchools.