We're "ON" It! - The Owen News

Owen Valley High School (OVHS) recently welcomed United States Congressman Mark Messmer for a firsthand look at the school's innovative, student-centered approach to education… an approach that continues to set OVHS apart across the region and beyond.

During his visit, Messmer focused on the school's commitment to hands-on, real-world instruction designed to prepare students for life after graduation. Whether students plan to pursue college, enter the workforce or serve in the military, OVHS emphasizes practical experience alongside academic learning to ensure graduates are ready for their next steps.

A highlight of the visit was a detailed presentation from student managers of Patriot Manufacturing, OVHS's state-recognized student-run business. Students walked Congressman Messmer through their daily production routines, internal control systems and customer engagement strategies. They also showcased their use of lean manufacturing techniques, demonstrating not only technical proficiency but also a deep understanding of efficiency and quality control.

Messmer noted the professionalism and confidence displayed by the student leaders, who manage real orders and maintain high standards in both product delivery and client communication. Patriot Manufacturing has earned a reputation as a premier student-run business, one that develops critical soft skills such as teamwork, problem-solving and leadership while consistently delivering quality products.

The program's reputation extends well beyond Owen County. Patriot Manufacturing has hosted site visits from U.S. Senators, U.S. Representatives, local business leaders and area schools. In addition, student representatives often present at statewide conferences, sharing their model as an example of successful career and technical education in action.

Messmer also toured the Colonial Cup, the OVHS student-operated coffee shop. There, he reviewed the business's product offerings and daily sales figures, gaining insight into how students manage inventory, pricing and customer service in a fast-paced environment. The experience provided another example of how OVHS integrates classroom knowledge with real-world application.

The visit concluded with a look at the future of career pathways at OVHS: a new cosmetology program currently under development. Once completed, the program will allow students to graduate with a cosmetology license, made possible through qualified instructors and extensive in-service training hours, including select Saturdays. This addition further underscores the school's dedication to equipping students with tangible credentials and career-ready skills.

Messmer's visit highlighted what makes OVHS unique: a commitment to experiential learning that bridges education and real-world readiness. Through programs like Patriot Manufacturing, the Colonial Cup and emerging pathways such as cosmetology, OVHS continues to prepare students not just for graduation, but for success in whatever path they choose.

As the nation prepares to observe a tradition that began more than 150 years ago as "Decoration Day," Owen County residents will once again gather later this month to honor the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. This annual pause to remember serves as a poignant reminder of the cost of freedom, and a full schedule of local ceremonies has been organized to ensure the legacy of the fallen is properly honored.

The observances begin Sunday, May 24, as the Coal City American Legion Post #141 hosts its annual program at the Lutheran Cemetery in Patricksburg. Starting at 2 p.m., weather permitting, this initial ceremony sets the stage for a day of solemn reflection that will continue across the county on May 25.

On Memorial Day morning in Spencer, the American Legion Post #285, VFW Post #1405 and the Owen County Honor Guard will initiate their annual events at 10 a.m. at the Chambersville Cemetery near the Owen-Monroe county line. From there, the morning program will transition to the northwest lawn of the Owen County Courthouse. Attendees will hear from guest speaker Lt. Col. Russell Callaway, a retired United States Air Force officer and senior aerospace instructor for the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) at Owen Valley High School.

Following the courthouse address, the procession will move to the Owen County Veterans Memorial Bridge for a specialized observance honoring those lost at sea, before concluding the morning's ceremonies at the Soldiers Memorial Pavilion inside Riverside Cemetery.

For those seeking fellowship afterward, food will be available in the VFW Post #1405 Community Room at 78 E. Franklin St. following the conclusion of the Spencer programs.

In other parts of the county, remembrance remains equally steadfast. An annual ceremony at Hudson Hill Cemetery in northeast Montgomery Township will get underway at 10 a.m. on May 25. This will be followed at 11 a.m. by the Gosport VFW Post #7850 Memorial Day program at the Gosport Cemetery, where retired Army Colonel Joy Koester will serve as the guest speaker.

Owen Countians are encouraged to participate in one or more of these local ceremonies to pay tribute to those who gave their lives for the nation. By gathering at these historic cemeteries and monuments, the community helps to preserve the legacy of those who served while reaffirming a collective commitment to supporting the families they left behind.

Primary Election Vote Centers

Early voting for the 2026 Primary Election ends at noon on May 4 at the Owen County Courthouse in Spencer.

The 2026 Primary Election will take place Tuesday, May 5, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. at each of the seven local vote center locations. Vote centers will be located at:

Faith Baptist Church (11612 S.R. 243, Cloverdale)

Family of God Church (2018 S.R. 67N, Spencer)

Clay Township Fire Department (5663 S.R. 43, Spencer)

Freedom Community Center (5552 Freedom-Arney Rd., Freedom)

Jefferson Baptist Church (4019 Main St., Coal City)

Garrard Chapel Church (7410 W. S.R. 46, Bowling Green)

Christian Life Center (152 E. Clay St., Spencer)

Registered voters can choose to cast their ballot at any one of the seven vote centers, regardless of the precinct in which they reside. All vote center locations are handicap accessible and help will be available for anyone who needs assistance due to vision loss or who may require non-English speaking materials.

For more information, call the Owen County Election Office at 812-829-5028.

INDOT begins sidewalk project

Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) contractor Crider & Crider, Inc. recently began a sidewalk improvement project along U.S. 231 in Freedom.

The project is taking place between County Road 550 West and Freedom Road and is expected to be completed in late July, weather permitting. During the project, a 10-foot lane width restriction will be in effect on northbound and southbound U.S. 231.

This project is part of a $2.6 million contract awarded to Crider & Crider in February 2026.

Drainage improvements along 231

Elsewhere, INDOT contractor Crider and Crider, Inc. was scheduled to begin a drainage improvement project on U.S. 231 on or after April 27, south of Spencer.

The project will take place on U.S. 231 between Old Highway 67 and Goose Creek Rd. and is expected to be complete in late July, weather permitting. During the project, a 10-foot lane width limit will be in effect on northbound and southbound U.S. 231.

This project is part of a $2.6 million contract awarded to Crider & Crider in February 2026.

INDOT reminds drivers to slow down, use extra caution, and avoid distractions when traveling in and near work zones. All work is weather-dependent, and schedules are subject to change.

Teacher of the Year award finalist

Kristen Portteus, a teacher at Owen Valley High School (OVHS), has been selected as one of just nine finalists for the Indianapolis Indians Teacher of the Year Award.

The Indianapolis Indians' Teacher of the Year program shines a spotlight on outstanding educators who go above and beyond by inspiring students, strengthening their communities, and truly making a difference in the classroom each and every day. For decades, teacher recognition programs like this have celebrated educators who elevate the profession and impact students far beyond school walls.

Ms. Portteus represents the best of OVHS: passion, dedication, and a commitment to helping every student succeed.

Be sure to cheer her on as she is recognized on the field at Victory Field in Indianapolis before the Indianapolis Indians' game on Saturday, May 9.

State Parks offer free admission May 3

Celebrate the start of the outdoor recreation season with free admission to all Indiana State Parks properties on Sunday, May 3, the second day of Welcome Weekend.

Find an Indiana State Parks property and see what's new at on.IN.gov/stateparks. If you've never visited, on.IN.gov/dnr-welcome offers helpful tips.

"To longtime visitors and brand-new visitors alike, we warmly welcome everyone to the parks," said Brandt Baughman, Director of Indiana State Parks. "Our parks offer beautiful natural getaways, camping under the stars, healthy outdoor activities, and delicious dining and restful lodging at our inns."

Many activities are on tap for the weekend, including full moon hikes, scavenger hunts, cloud watching, and more. All Indiana State Parks programs and events during Welcome Weekend and beyond are listed at calendar.dnr.IN.gov and on each property's Facebook page.

MCSP awarded grant funds

The Indiana Parks Alliance (IPA) recently awarded nearly $20,000 in grants to 11 Indiana State Park Friends' groups, including McCormick's Creek State Park. Nine grants totaling $14,850 are being given through IPA's Tom Hohman Project Grants Fund. Two trail-related grants are being awarded with a total of $5,000 in Trails for Tomorrow funds. These grants, when paired with local Friends' fundraising, will result in projects that benefit property visitors and state parks' natural/historic resources.

The 2026 grants include:

Brown County State Park – Benches for planned firetower plaza.

Charlestown State Park – Carsonite trail markers and identifying signs for bridges (Trails for Tomorrow funds).

Clifty Falls State Park – Filtered water fill station and fountain.

Falls of the Ohio State Park – New carpet for wildlife viewing room.

Harmonie State Park – Trail development around campground fishing pond.

McCormick's Creek State Park – New stone and step repairs for Trail 3 from the Canyon Inn to the falls (Trails for Tomorrow funds).

Mississinewa Lake – Tree replacement due to flooding.

Mounds State Park – Plant restoration on the Great Mound.

Shakamak State Park – Installation of a tri-county interpretive sign and a boardwalk to access the location.

Turkey Run State Park – Wildlife feeding area improvements.

Versailles State Park – Native plants for wildlife viewing area and sign installation.

Free fishing days for 2026

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has announced free fishing days for 2026. On select days each year, Indiana residents can fish the state's public waters without a fishing license or a trout/salmon stamp.

This year's Free Fishing Days will be on May 10, June 6 & 7, and Sept. 26.

For anglers who fish year-round, remember that annual licenses and stamp privileges from last season expired on March 31.

Purchase your 2026 license online, in person, or by mail. For more information, visit in.gov/dnr/fish-and-wildlife/fishing/free-fishing-days.

Speed limit changed in Coal City

The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) approved a township request to reduce the speed limit in Coal City. Late last year, an INDOT crew replaced the 35 mph signs with 30 mph signs. This is an effort to slow down traffic though the town, particularly with three families living on State Road 157 with young children.

The Owen News has won four reporting awards from the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) Indiana Professional Chapter's annual Best in Indiana Journalism Awards.

The annual awards are judged by another SPJ chapter. This year's awards were judged by the Northern California chapter.

The Owen News placed first in Feature Writing with its coverage of VentFest, second place in coverage of children's issues for its coverage of the closure of Tiny Town Learning Center, second place in coverage of government in politics for its piece on awaiting public records concerning the jail land swap, and second in criminal justice reporting for its coverage of a juvenile being waived into adult court in the Gosport shootings that took place during Lazy Days weekend last year.

"These awards reflect the kind of journalism our community deserves: reporting that holds institutions accountable, tells meaningful local stories and doesn't shy away from difficult topics. It shows that The Owen News offers quality journalism," Executive Editor Nicole DeCriscio said. "I'm incredibly grateful that we get to do this work in and for Owen County every day. It's a privilege to serve this community, and we're proud to be building something that truly reflects and supports it. We couldn't do this without the support of our community."

"Our mission has always been to ensure that Owen County has a reliable, independent voice, and these honors from the SPJ affirm that we are meeting that standard of excellence," added Travis Curry, President of The Owen News Board of Directors. "Quality journalism is a vital community asset, and our entire board remains committed to providing the structural support necessary for our team to keep digging deep and telling the stories that matter most to our neighbors. This recognition proves that when a community supports its local newsroom, the result is award-winning journalism that can stand alongside the best in the state."

The Association of Indiana Counties (AIC) and Financial Services Group, Inc. have named a local fourth grader as the National County Government Month essay contest winner for the AIC's West Central District.

Jorran Delp's essay was chosen over entries from other fourth graders across the district. Delp, a student at Patricksburg Elementary in Owen County, received $100 for winning the contest. One winner was chosen in each of the AIC's six districts.

This year's theme was "Celebrating Indiana Health Departments." Essays were judged on how well students expressed their knowledge about Indiana Health Departments.

Delp was awarded the prize on April 9, during the AIC West Central District Meeting in Putnam County. The meeting also included a synopsis of the 2026 Indiana Legislative Session by AIC legislative staff.

The line at Cooper Commons on April 25 told a story of a community eager to grow. Stretching from the MYPath Shelter all the way to the Veterans Memorial Bridge, residents gathered early, waiting for the gates to open on the annual Native Tree Giveaway.

The event, a successful collaboration between the Town of Spencer Parks & Recreation Committee and the Owen County Soil & Water Conservation District (SWCD), aimed to enhance local home landscapes while promoting the benefits of native species.

For 90-year-old Marvin Jones of Spencer, the giveaway was about more than just landscaping; it was a trip down memory lane. Accompanied by his daughter, Leann Schnurpel, Jones walked away with American plum, pecan and elderberry saplings.

Holding the small elderberry plant, Jones reflected on his childhood, recalling the specific taste of the homemade elderberry jelly his mother used to prepare from scratch.

By planting these two- to three-year-old saplings today, the Jones family is ensuring those traditions—and flavors—remain rooted in Spencer for another generation.

While some came for the memories, others came with a vision for the local ecosystem. Susie Hendricks, also of Spencer, was among those who sought out specific varieties, including American plum and pecan seedlings. She planned to plant the trees on her property to create a natural food source for deer.

Hendricks' goal mirrors the broader mission of the SWCD: to encourage residents to use native flora to support local wildlife and maintain the natural balance of the Indiana landscape.

The high turnout meant that hundreds of saplings found new homes across the county. This year's selection focused on hardiness and ecological value, featuring:

Hardwoods: Pin oak and white oak

Water-lovers: River birch and bald cypress

Fruit and nut bearers: Pecan, elderberry and American plum

As the last of the 1,400 saplings were handed out, the event once again proved that Spencer residents are committed to keeping Owen County green, one backyard at a time.