SPECIAL Bicentennial Edition

North Putnam Community Schools is proud of our community and would like to recognize the wonderful work of so many dedicated individuals within our community who have developed what is expected to be an awesome event next weekend. The Bainbridge Improvement Society has developed an exciting weekend to showcase the history, present, and future of Bainbridge through a variety of activities for families. Below is a listing and short description of the events that have been developed. For more information or to sign up for some of the activities, visit the Bainbridge Bicentennial website.

The next NPHS varsity football game at Cougar Stadium is Friday, September 13, and

you're in luck... when it comes to dinner! Stop by the Welcome Home Gathering at the

Bainbridge Community Building to and from the game for a ribeye sandwich. Dine in or

carry out from 5 to 10:30 p.m. and fuel up for another home-field victory!

What a great way to see different parts of the town in these free events. The 5K Run/Walk will begin the day on Saturday, September 14th at 8AM, or at 10AM, you can join Bainbridge native Kenny Lukenbill on a leisurely group ride around town. To learn more or to register, visit the Bicentennial website.

On Saturday, September 14, NPHS varsity basketball coaches Vince Brooks and Kelly

Windmiller are hosting a FREE Youth Basketball Clinic at Bainbridge Elementary

School. Bainbridge High School legends, Indiana All-Stars and Indiana Basketball Hall

of Famers Jeff Blue (drafted by the Boston Celtics), Pat Rady (5th all-time winningest

coach in Indiana high school basketball history), and Larry Steele (played for and won

an NBA championship with the Portland Trail Blazers) will assist. Register online

The Bainbridge Volunteer Fire Department will host their 9th annual car show during the Bicentennial Celebration. Come look at sweet rides and enjoy a BBQ lunch, with proceeds benefiting the BVFD. Contact Chief Kevin Thorson with questions. The rain date for the car show only is September 21.

Drag your bicycle out of the garage and air up the tires because Kenny Lukenbill will lead a leisurely group ride around town - just like the good ol' days! All ages are welcome.

Enjoy food offerings from local restaurants and organizations, check out community and retail vendors, and see the historical artifacts on display at the Town Hall and Community Building. Because "strengthening the community through service and fellowship" is the Bainbridge Improvement Society's mission, we hope you'll take this time to visit with neighbors, too! Contact Duston Spencer with questions.

Has it been a while? Visit your old school and church and reminisce or pay your respects to those who have gone before us. Volunteers will be available to show you around and answer questions.

Locations = Bainbridge Christian Church, Bainbridge Elementary School, Bainbridge United Methodist Church, Bainbridge Cemetery, and the North Putnam Transportation Center (formerly a portion of Bainbridge High School).

Local businesses, organizations, sports teams, clubs, classrooms, and families will get creative in showing their town and North Putnam pride. Music, candy, fun outfits, unique vehicles, and swag are encouraged.

For the first 45 minutes of the program, County Historian Larry Tippin will share highlights from the town's 200 years. Then, Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame members JeƯ Blue, Pat Rady, and Larry Steele—as well as Ben Chadd on behalf of his dad, Archie Chadd— will participate in a panel discussion, sharing their Bainbridge and basketball memories.

Location = Bainbridge Community Building (Indoors)

After your children load up on treats during the parade, let them burn oƯ that energy (for free) in multiple bounce houses while you catch the History Program, grab a bite, or visit with neighbors!

Location = Bainbridge Community Building (Outdoors)

The Putnam County Mural Project's second Mural Festival takes place September 7-21, and Bainbridge is lucky to be the home of one of the walls. Artist Anthony Brooks will be available to answer questions during this time and then help present the awards for the Bicentennial Celebration's elementary art contest.

Location = Bainbridge Community Building (Indoors)

4:30 - The American West Band

6:30 - The Flying Toasters

9:00 - Henry Lee Summers

Location =Bainbridge Community Building (Outdoor Stage)

The Putnam County Library recently made a Facebook post celebrating the Bicentennial of Bainbridge. Below are the pictures that were shared as well as information from their post.