Pictured, from left, Arthur Brown, board member, Ellen Hoffer, secretary, Dave Baumgartner, president, Jerry Frush, I.U. fan and Lewis Dobbins, vice-president.

WARSAW — At the Oakwood Cemetery Board meeting held Thursday, April 6,  Josie Ryan, a representative from the American Legion Post 49, Warsaw, was present to discuss the annual Memorial Day ceremony that will be held at Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.

Ryan said they received complaints after last year’s event regarding the sound system. Ryan feels the equipment they have is not powerful enough for the amount of people they anticipate will be attending the event and asked for suggestions from board members. Ryan said they want to ensure that everybody has an enjoyable time at the Memorial Day ceremony and that the veterans of this community are properly honored.

Ryan stated they do have some upgraded speakers that may work a little better, but they will not know for sure until they are able to set the equipment up and test it once the weather gets a little nicer. Cemetery Board President Dave Baumgartner offered the use of his own equipment to supplement the equipment provided by the American Legion.

Ryan also informed board members that anyone is welcome to come to the American Legion Post 49 at any time, to pick up a flag free of charge to place at a veteran’s grave. Ryan said she wants the public to be aware that none of the cemeteries are responsible for covering loved ones that may be missing a flag after the flags have been placed. Ryan stated that If your loved one is missing a flag holder, it is likely that they will not get a flag. The Legion will not be sending anybody out this year and have not done this for a couple of years. Ryan said many people are not aware of this and she wants to keep the public informed.

The first foundation pour of the season has been done, with 29 foundations poured. Monument companies will be placing the monuments as soon as possible.

The four large flower beds north of the office have been removed and the area leveled out. Grass seed has been planted in that area.

Other news:

• February meeting minutes were approved. (No meeting was held in March).
• Nine loads of wood were given away in March. There is still wood available.
• A new mower has been ordered and is expected to be delivered this month.
• Oakwood Cemetery will be trading in their track hoe for an updated track hoe.
• The next regular meeting will be at 5 p.m. Thursday, May 4.

Oakwood Cemetery