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‘The Odd Couple’ comes to Spencer

Can two freshly single men share an apartment without driving each other to complete madness? Local theatergoers are about to find out as the Owen County Theatre & Arts Alliance presents Neil Simon’s legendary comedy, “The Odd Couple.”

The curtain rises on a hilarious domestic showdown when neurotic, clean-freak Felix Ungar gets dumped by his wife and lands on the doorstep of his best friend, Oscar Madison. Oscar is a notoriously messy sportswriter who thrives in chaos, making him the exact opposite of the obsessively organized Felix. What starts as a generous rescue mission rapidly dissolves into an outrageous battle of lifestyles, fueled by routine poker games, quirky neighbors, and constant nagging.

This timeless favorite runs for one weekend only at the Historic Tivoli Theatre in Spencer, taking the stage from Friday, Aug. 28th through Sunday, Aug. 30th. Audiences can choose from four showtimes: Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., or the Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at the door for $12 for adults and $5 for youth.

Water Day is Aug. 29 at Farmers’ Market

Residents will have an opportunity to explore water conservation, safety, and local environmental stewardship during Water Day on Saturday, Aug. 29. Co-hosted by the Owen County Soil & Water Conservation District and BBP Water Corp, the event runs from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Owen County Farmers’ Market, located in the Babbs Supermarket parking lot at 459 W. Morgan St.

The family-friendly event will feature interactive educational activities, rescue boat displays, market vendor booths, and a community duck race. Organizers will also serve complimentary hot dogs and brats to attendees throughout the morning.

Water Day aims to highlight the ecological and practical importance of local water resources while offering practical tips on how community members can help protect watersheds. For more information on district programs and upcoming initiatives, visit the Owen County Soil & Water Conservation District website at www.owencountyswcd.org.

Booming Beach Bash at Lieber SRA

Celebrate the end of summer with a Booming Beach Bash and Fireworks Show at Lieber State Recreation Area (Cagles Mill Lake), 1317 W. Lieber Road, Cloverdale. The Friends of Lieber SRA and park staff will be hosting the park’s annual fireworks show and festivities on Saturday, Sept. 5, from 6 to 9 p.m. The evening will include games, a cornhole tournament, DJ/music, and will conclude with fireworks at 9 p.m.

All activities and fireworks will be located at the Lieber SRA beach. Parking is first come, first serve so be sure to plan accordingly. The Friends of Lieber SRA will have hot dogs, chips, and soda for sale. All proceeds benefit the park.

Gate entrance fee applies. Be sure to check in at the Nature Center or Camp Gate to learn about other Labor Day Weekend programs and activities. To learn more about Lieber State Recreation Area visit https://on.in.gov/caglesmill

OCCC to host evening Micro-Farm Tours

The Owen County Chamber of Commerce (OCCC) will host its Micro-Farm Tours on Thursday, Sept. 10, from 5:15 to 8 p.m., offering attendees an opportunity to explore local agriculture and connect with community growers. Featuring nine unique micro-farms represented across two distinct routes, the evening tours highlight handcrafted local wines, vibrant flower fields, farm animals, and regional vendors. Both tours depart from the OCCC office at 120 S. Main Street in Spencer.

Tour A includes stops at Sunset Ridge Berries & Bloom for pick-your-own flower bouquets, and Owen Valley Winery for wine tasting and charcuterie. Participating vendors for Tour A include Compass Rose Farm Sanctuary, Celtic Glen Heritage Livestock, and Hickory Hills.

Tour B features stops at Harriman Farms & Greenhouse to shop fresh produce and meet local vendors (including Copper Cataract Homestead and Crossroads Ranch), Harvest Moon Winery & Farms for wine tasting and charcuterie, and a visit to Compass Rose Farm Sanctuary.

Tickets are $25 per person and include transportation, refreshments, wine tastings, and networking opportunities. Space is limited. Tickets can be purchased online at myowencountychamber.com or by calling the OCCC at 812-829-3245.

MYPath 5K is Sept. 12 in Spencer

Help connect our local community trail system directly to the state park! The third annual MYPath 5K Run/Walk takes place Saturday, Sept. 12, with the official race starting at 8:30 a.m. On-site registration and check-in open early at 7 a.m.

The event starts and ends at the Owen County Fairgrounds (364 S. East Street, Spencer). Designed for both runners and walkers of all levels, the flat, fast course loops over paved and unpaved portions of the trail system, offering scenic views along the White River, a bridge crossing, and a stretch through the Tree Tube Trail.

Advance registration is $25 (available through Sept. 11), and race-day registration is $30. To sign up, volunteer, or learn more about the fundraising effort, visit https://ow.ly/fsjC50Z9yBP.

First Responder Dodgeball Tournament

Dodgeball, water balloons, and community connection are on the schedule for Saturday, Sept. 12, as the Cataract Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) hosts its annual First Responder Dodgeball Tournament. The Cataract VFD invites firefighters, law enforcement, EMS, and community members to join in on the fun at 2794 S. Cataract Rd.

The tournament kicks off promptly at 11 a.m. with specialized first responder rounds, followed by open games where community members can play alongside or against local heroes. Kids can cool off after the tournament with water balloon fights. The family-friendly event is free and open to the public.

Arts, Blues & BBQ Fest returns to MCSP

Head to McCormick’s Creek State Park (MCSP) on Saturday, Sept. 12, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. for the annual Arts, Blues & BBQ Festival. Presented by The Friends of McCormick’s Creek State Park and The Whirlwind Agency, this year’s community celebration features live music, regional art, delicious food, and local refreshments set against the scenic backdrop of Indiana’s oldest state park.

The day-long music lineup kicks off at 11 a.m. with Jesse Beals, followed by Tim O’Malley at 11:30 a.m. Gravy Bird takes the stage from 12:15 to 1 p.m., followed by Your Favorite Blues Band from 1:15 to 2 p.m. The afternoon continues with the Steve Houk Band from 2:15 to 3 p.m., Piney Woods & The Harrodsburg Horns from 3:15 to 4 p.m., Big Dog from 4:15 to 5 p.m., and headline act Dicky James closing out the event from 5:15 to 6 p.m.

Beyond the music, visitors can browse unique works by on-site artists and indulge in mouthwatering barbecue, classic sides, ice cream, and craft local beer provided by community sponsor Civilian Brewing Corps. Additional support for the festival is provided by the Sweet Owen Convention & Visitor’s Bureau.

The event takes place at McCormick’s Creek State Park, located at 250 McCormick Creek Park Rd., Spencer. Admission to the festival is included with standard park gate entry, which is $7 per vehicle for Indiana residents and $9 per vehicle for out-of-state visitors. For full details, visit www.friendsmccormickscreek.org or www.thewhirlwindagency.com.

Art Guild to host Plein Aire Painting Contest

The Owen County Art Guild (OCAG) will host its second annual Plein Aire Painting Contest on Sept. 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the annual Arts, Blues & BBQ Festival at McCormicks Creek State Park. Artists of any medium are invited to participate, though attendees must bring their own outdoor painting supplies. Canvases and paper can be picked up at the check-in desk located near the Nature Center.

Festival patrons will serve as judges for the contest, with prizes awarded to the top three artists: $65 for first place, $35 for second place, and an art gift for third place. Entry cost is $10 per person. Interested artists can register or get more information by calling 812-829-1877 or emailing owcoartguild@gmail.com.

Annual Patricksburg VFD Fish Fry

The Patricksburg Community Volunteer Fire Department, which has been proudly serving the community since 1971, will host its Annual Fish Fry on Sept. 12 starting at 4 p.m. at 1480 Chestnut St., Patricksburg.

Attendees can purchase a full Fish Dinner for $14, which includes two pieces of fish, one cold side, one hot side, one dessert, and a drink with free refills. A Kids Meal is available for $6 and features a choice of one hotdog or one piece of fish, served with one side and a drink with free refills. Additional menu items and side options are also available a la carte, ranging from $2 to $4.

All proceeds will support the VFD.

PES to host ‘Picnic in the ’Burg’

Patricksburg Elementary School (PES) invites families to trade cafeteria tables for fresh air at the annual “Picnic in the ’Burg” on Friday, Sept. 18. The event will take place on the school lawn at 9883 State Road 246, featuring lunch for all grades from 11:15 to 11:45 a.m. followed immediately by recess from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and must pack their own lunches. All attending adults who are non-S-OCS employees must submit a volunteer form along with their RSVP by Friday, Sept. 11.

Guests are asked to plan their travel carefully and arrive no later than 11:10 a.m. The school’s back parking lot will be open from 10:45 to 11:10 a.m., after which it will close until 12:15 p.m. to allow for car rider movement; anyone arriving late or needing to leave early will need to park elsewhere. The event will run rain or shine, moving inside the school building if inclement weather occurs.

24th Annual Jim Fulford Golf Open

The Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF) will host its 24th Annual Jim Fulford Golf Open on Thursday, Sept. 17 at Rolling Meadows Golf Course near Gosport. Recognized as Owen County’s premier golf tournament, all proceeds from the outing benefit the OCCF to support its local philanthropic initiatives.

Players and sponsors can register online at bit.ly/2026OCCFJFO. Businesses or individuals interested in sponsorship opportunities can also participate to have their name or business featured. Team registration is $500 and Individual registration is $125.

For more information or to register directly, contact Karah Bobeck via email at karah@owencountycf.org or by phone at 812-829-1725.

CES receives grant for Neuroscience Lab expansion

Cloverdale Elementary School (CES) has been awarded a $4,684 grant from the Putnam County Community Foundation (PCCF). The generous funding will allow the school to expand its neuroscience lab by purchasing two additional pieces of equipment, providing enhanced learning opportunities for students.

School officials expressed deep gratitude to the PCCF for its continued investment in local children and ongoing support of nonprofit organizations throughout Putnam County.

Neff reappointed to NACo leadership roles

Owen County Councilman Anton Neff has been reappointed to national leadership positions with the National Association of Counties (NACo) for the 2026–2027 term. In an appointment letter dated Aug. 6, NACo President George Dunlap selected Neff to continue serving as Vice Chair of the Membership Standing Committee, as well as a member of both the Healthy Counties Innovation Council and the Rural Action Caucus (RAC).

The appointments align with NACo’s presidential spotlight initiative, “Building Better Futures,” which focuses on investing in opportunities for young people.

Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with local government leaders nationwide, Neff noted that it remains an honor to represent Indiana’s 92 counties and especially his home community of Owen County.

Vendors applications open for Apple Butter Festival

The Spencer Lions Club is accepting vendor applications for its annual Apple Butter Festival, taking place Saturday, Sept. 19 (9 a.m. to 9 p.m.) and Sunday, Sept. 20 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Regular 10’x10’ booth spaces are available for $100 for the weekend, while food, boutique, trailer, and truck spaces are priced at $15 per linear foot. Electrical hookups and water access are also available for additional fees.

Vendor setup begins Friday, Sept. 18, and all booths must be ready by 9 a.m. Saturday. The event will run rain or shine.

Completed forms and payment should be mailed to: Spencer Lions Club, Attn: ABF Vendor, 59 N. Main St., Spencer, IN 47460.

For questions, contact Jim Query at pccjim.query@yahoo.com or call 812-322-8950.

Owen Valley Haunted Wine Run 5k

Lace up your running shoes and raise a glass! The Owen Valley Haunted Wine Run 5k is coming to Owen Valley Winery, located at 491 Timber Ridge Rd. in Spencer, on Sunday, Oct. 4, at 10 a.m. Whether you are a seasoned runner, a casual walker, or simply a wine enthusiast, this event offers a perfect blend of fitness, flavor, and autumn scenery. Participants will navigate a chip-timed 5k cross-country route—or an optional 1.5-mile walk—winding through the winery’s picturesque vineyards, which are known for their artisanal, farm-to-glass wine production.

Every registrant receives a full lineup of race swag to remember the day. Your entry includes a soft ring-spun cotton t-shirt (with an option to upgrade to a warm hoodie), a souvenir plastic wine glass, a finisher medal that doubles as a functional wine stopper, free downloadable race photos, and a complimentary pour of wine waiting for you at the finish line. The race is professionally timed and scored by J3 Timing, with full results posted online at www.J3Timing.com. Best of all, your participation supports a great cause, as this year’s event proudly partners with the YMCA to benefit the local Owen County community.

To sign up or learn more, visit https://runsignup.com/Race/IN/Spencer/OwenValleyWineRun5k.

Cataract VFD announces call for festival vendors

The village of Cataract will host the 57th Annual Cataract Volunteer Fire Department Bean Dinner Festival from Friday, Oct. 2, through Sunday, Oct. 4. The tradition features 850 pounds of ham and beans alongside a variety of festival favorites including barbecue, kettle corn, burgers, and ice cream. Attendees can browse vendor booths offering tools, crafts, art, antiques, jewelry, and apparel throughout the weekend.

Organizers are currently seeking additional vendors and volunteers to support the event. Booth spaces are available for $30. Interested vendors, volunteers, or attendees seeking more information can call 765-720-8178, email cataractbeandinner@yahoo.com, or visit cataractfire.com.

Vendor applications open for Arts in the Park & Classic Car Show

Vendor applications are open for the Second Annual Arts in the Park & Classic Car Show, returning to Cooper Commons park in Spencer on Saturday, Oct. 24.

The Sweet Owen Arts Commission invites artists, food vendors, and non-profit organizations to participate in this vibrant community celebration, which offers a prime opportunity to showcase work, grow local businesses, and support the arts across Owen and surrounding counties.

Artist and food vendor booth fees are set at $50, while space is available free of charge for non-profit organizations. Due to limited availability, prospective vendors are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible before the Oct. 10 deadline.

Interested applicants can secure their spots online by visiting www.sweetowenarts.org. For questions or additional information regarding the event, call 317-331-6716 or email info@sweetowenarts.org.

New children’s book published by Owen County author

Freedom author Azariah Keith published a new children’s book on Aug. 10th titled “Gift From a Stranger.” The book also features illustrations from local mural artist Israel Hogan. The book tells the story of a little girl who dreams of one day having her very own toothbrush. The book is now available to purchase online at Amazon and westbowpress.com.

OCCF expands resources for nonprofits

To support nonprofit services in Owen County, the Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF) has upgraded its online support for any agency working with Owen County residents.

“The Foundation has been providing important grants to nonprofit organizations for years,” said OCCF President and CEO Janet Rummel. “We want to provide information to help our nonprofits with grant applications to our Foundation or any other granting agencies.”

The new web page shares information about networking with the recently formed Owen County Nonprofit Alliance. In addition, the page makes it easier to learn about Foundation grants. Links are shared to help organizations find the community and state demographic data that are frequently required for most grant applications.

The resources can be found at www.owencountycf.org/nonprofits.

Last year, the Owen County Community Foundation awarded $590,773 to 82 organizations across Owen County. Rummel said the OCCF is committed to continuing its impact in the community.

Drivers on N. Fletcher or E. Hillside avenues may have noticed a big white tent occupying the parking lot of the Unraveled Quilt Store on Aug. 8. Underneath it, they would find 32 women quilting for charity. The event under that tent: The 7th Annual Unraveled Quilt-a-Thon.

“It started after COVID when we could start getting together again,” recalled Lisa Stantz, owner of Unraveled Quilt Store, “I always liked the charm of having it in the parking lot under a tent.”

The event started as a way for quilters to get together in an outside setting due to the social distance restrictions during the Covid 19 pandemic. Now, over six years later the Quilt-a-thon has raised over $46,000 for charities in Owen County and beyond. This year’s Quilt-a-thon beneficiaries are two local animal shelters: Compass Rose Farm Sanctuary and the Sanctuary at Browning Farms. The Quilt-a-thon works like a walk-a-thon or a dance marathon. Participating quilters get sponsors from individuals or businesses that donate to the event’s chosen cause based on how many hours that the participant spends quilting.

“We start at 10 a.m. and go until 2 a.m.,” said Stantz, “We start with 32 people at 10 a.m. and we only have about five left at 2 a.m.”

She said that the 2 a.m. limit had to be set because otherwise the marathon would never end. The first Quilt-a-thon ended at noon the day after it started.

“The first year we started at 4 p.m. and I thought ‘Great,’ because people would be tired, but by the next day I had to say ‘Girls, I’m calling it. I don’t know how long they would have sewn if I had just let them go.’”

The event brings in quilting enthusiasts from around the county, and even around the country like Columbia, Maryland resident Annette Hannah who flew in just for the Quilt-A-Thon. Hannah discovered the Unraveled Quilt Store many years ago, when she was helping her son move to Indiana for a new job at Crane Naval Base. She remembers a frustrating car ride that led her to seek out some quilt-therapy.

“I was going to kill him, because he was driving me nuts,” Hannah recalled, “So I went looking for a local quilt store and this was the closest one.”

She kept coming back, she says, for the amazing quilting community that she found here in Spencer.

“Even though I’ve flown 600 miles, this is my local quilt store,” she said.

Dedication to quilting and to the local quilting community is something that everyone at the event shared. Spencer resident Amber Brooks-Wolfe didn’t let a foot injury stop her from quilting at the event. She replaced her normal foot pedal with a switch that she works with her hand instead.

“I was not going to miss it this year, even with a broken foot,” she said. “It’s a little harder because you don’t have both hands to feed the fabric but I’ve been doing it now for six weeks and I haven’t sewn my fingers yet.”

It was 10-year-old Lilly Brinson’s third Quilt-a-thon event. She learned to sew three years earlier at an Unraveled Future Quilters event.

“I just like sewing with other people,” she said.

At 10:30 that night while many others had gone home, Lilly was still working on her quilt along with her mother Stephanie Brinson.

The 2026 event raised over $7,000 for the two charities, something that Lisa Stantz is very proud of.

“I’ve lived in Owen County all my life. Doing this event is a way for me to give back to our community,” Stantz reflected. “Being able to bring people together for the greater good is a great feeling.”

The Spencer Main Street Board of Directors welcomed members, volunteers, community partners, and guests to the organization’s 2026 Annual Meeting on Aug. 10 at Civilian Brewing Corps Brewpub. The evening celebrated downtown Spencer’s continued revitalization, recognized those who continue to contribute to its success, and looked ahead to future opportunities. The gathering also marked a welcome return to the historic courthouse square after several years of holding the annual meeting outside of downtown. Spencer Main Street Director Ronda Stogsdill served as emcee in the absence of board president Julie Coffin, who was unable to attend due to illness.

Guests enjoyed a meal prepared by Steve Withem and his smoker, Baby, along with Ben and Kylene Williams, owners of Civilian Brewing Corps. Desserts were provided by Kathy Balash and Debbie Bolin. During the business portion of the meeting, members reelected Ronda Stogsdill, Ben Williams, and Steve Withem to serve three-year terms on the Spencer Main Street Board of Directors. Secretary Sally Elmore and treasurer Jace Elmore were recognized for their leadership and continued service, along with the other members of the board of directors. Board vice president Steve Withem also provided a lively update on VentFest, an international ventriloquism and performing arts festival sponsored by Spencer Main Street. The festival has become a signature community event, drawing performers and visitors from around the world while showcasing Spencer’s welcoming spirit and vibrant downtown.

The evening highlighted the many projects and events Spencer Main Street creates, cultivates, and supports throughout the year. With the help of countless volunteers, businesses, and community partners, the organization works diligently to preserve the character of downtown Spencer while fostering opportunities for residents and visitors to gather, shop, and connect. Ongoing efforts to beautify and bring people downtown include hanging flower baskets, flower beds along the railroad, tailgate sales, seasonal window painting, advertising banners, tribute benches, and events such as the annual Spencer Christmas at the Square. Presented in partnership with downtown businesses, local organizations, and the Historic Tivoli Theatre, Christmas at the Square provides a magical holiday experience for children and the young at heart, free of charge. Spencer Main Street also partnered with VFW Post #1405 for this year’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. Held on Washington Street in front of the Historic Tivoli Theatre, the celebration was spearheaded by Civilian Brewing Corps.

Design Committee Chair Jacob Balash leads the installation of the flowering hanging baskets, coordinates the volunteers’ watering schedule, and oversees the decorating of downtown streetlamps with Christmas ornaments. Special recognition was given to the volunteers whose dedicated time and energy keep the baskets looking glorious throughout the summer. Three watering teams maintain 28 baskets around the courthouse square, 10 baskets along Morgan Street, and additional planters belonging to the Owen County Garden Club. Volunteers recognized included Evan McKalip, Shelley Harriman, Janet Rummel, Connie Murphy, John Corbin-Settle, Patti Cowin, and Shea Finnigan. Community partners and volunteers were also thanked for contributing their time, talents, and support to downtown Spencer, including representatives of the Spencer Town Council, Owen County Community Foundation, Owen County Chamber of Commerce, and Spencer Pride.

Attendees received an update on Spencer Main Street’s proposed entryway arch, an ambitious project intended to encourage those traveling along busy Morgan Street to turn toward the historic courthouse square and discover the downtown area the community is so proud of. Although significant fundraising remains ahead, the organization continues to build partnerships and explore funding opportunities. Spencer Main Street plans to begin the extensive application process for a Stellar Pathways grant, which is intended to support transformative community projects such as the proposed arch. The project would build upon years of investment, collaboration, and perseverance in downtown Spencer. A 2009 Spencer Comprehensive Plan questioned downtown’s short-term viability as a location for new businesses. Seventeen years later, the courthouse square has become a destination filled with local businesses, community events, and renewed energy.

Spencer Main Street’s mission is “community collaboration dedicated to preserving and revitalizing downtown Spencer to enhance living and business.” Through beautification efforts, signature events, business support, and strategic partnerships, the organization remains committed to ensuring downtown Spencer continues to thrive. Membership is vital to this work because dues directly support the nonprofit organization’s efforts to preserve and revitalize downtown. Annual membership dues are $10 for individuals, $15 for families, and $50 to $150 for businesses based on the number of employees. Members receive the annual newsletter and voting privileges, as well as opportunities to serve on the Board of Directors or committees, participate in projects, and help create a positive impact throughout the community.

To become a member or learn more about Spencer Main Street and its volunteer opportunities, visit www.spencermainstreet.org. Follow Spencer Main Street on Facebook for event information, news, and updates.

PHOTOS BY CHLOE ODEN | THE OWEN NEWS

PHOTOS BY TRAVIS CURRY | THE OWEN NEWS