By DAVID A. MANN
David.Mann@newsandtribune.com
JEFFERSONVILLE — Insurance, permits and proclamations were among concerns for organizers of Art on the Ohio on Monday night.
Artists and other volunteers associated with the fledgling show and sale, scheduled for June 18 and June 19, addressed the Jeffersonville City Council on Monday night.
Last year, the show coincided with the visit of LST 325 — a World War II-era landing ship that visited the Jeffersonville riverfront. This year, it’s set to run alongside the Smokin’ On The River barbecue festival. Both the festival and the art show are in their second year.
Sandy Knott, a member of the Jeffersonville Parks Facilities Board, asked the council if the show could be covered under the city’s insurance policy, something Councilman Keith Fetz said he’d inquire about.
Councilwoman Connie Sellers told show representatives to ask about getting an activities and entertainment permit from the state. City Communications Director Larry Thomas noted those were issued by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security, to ensure that it’s aware of large crowds for such events.
Organizer Jan Sowder also asked for a proclamation from the city, to help promote the show. Council members were agreeable to that as well.
We’re doing different things to make it a big community event,” Sowder said.
The group is taking applications, seeking sponsors and planning publicity.
“We all know how important it is to shop from local people,” she said. “That’s what we’re trying to do is create a local event.
“It really does take a lot of talking to people.”
The show will take place on Riverside Drive near the same area as the barbecue festival. Those interested in participating can contact Sowder at 812-282-6903 or log onto Jeffparks.org to download an application.
“I think it’s great,” Councilman Ron Grooms said. “Anything you can bring downtown is great.”
The art show was one of the only items the council addressed during the two meetings it held Monday night. Combined, the pair of meetings lasted less than 30 minutes — making it one of the shortest meeting nights for the council in recent memory.
