Search All Our Articles

Following a day and a half of testimony, 15-year-old Jeremiah Dill will face two counts of murder as an adult as a result of an August double-shooting in northeastern Owen County.

Owen Circuit Court I Judge Donald Van Der Moere ruled Tuesday, Oct. 28 that the case would be waived to adult court, saying that the juvenile system is insufficient in the time and resources for the aftercare necessary for Dill.

On the afternoon of Aug. 9, a call came in concerning a gunshot victim at a home in the 1500 block of Truesdel Road. Upon arriving at the scene, officers found Jeffrey Fauber, 61, and Grantham Adam Chandler, 41, deceased from gunshot wounds. 

Shortly after, the Martinsville Police Department posted to their Facebook page that they detained a juvenile male that had entered the Morgan County Sheriff’s Department lobby advising them of an incident in Owen County that was “criminal in nature.” 

Initial information, including the responding agencies and what information could be released was made available at a press conference at the Owen County Courthouse at 9 p.m. that night. Dill’s name was not released at that time, as he is a minor and needed to be waived to adult court before his name would be made publicly available. 

In order to be charged as an adult, Prosecutor Benjamin Kim had to prove that the defendant was at least 12 years old, that probable cause of the crime occurred and that the juvenile was involved and that charging as an adult is in the best interest of the juvenile and the safety of the community. 

Defense attorney Megan Schueler argued that keeping the case in juvenile court was in the best interest of Dill and the safety of the community. She argued that the services and structure provided through the juvenile system provides Dill with the best chance of rehabilitation. Schueler argued that the system had repeatedly failed Dill. 

Van Der Moere cited a history of guardians unable to control Dill at home and a historical record of mental health interventions and commitments. He also cited that Dill is currently on the same medications as he was at the time of the incident and upon his release from at least two different facilities. 

Van Der Moere spoke to the appearance of intentionality behind the actions, saying, “Based on what it appears, you were lying in wait.”

He also cited the premeditated and trivial nature of the crime, saying, “They took your damn Xbox.”

Van Der Moere said he would be ordering Dill to be held without bond and that he was not making a specific finding that Dill be held in an adult facility while awaiting trial and returned him to the juvenile facility until trial. 

More information from the probable cause affidavit will be included once it is made available.

Prosecutor Kim has issued a reminder that all persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Note from my journal - 9/7/25.

Sitting at the pond at Fish Creek Campgrounds in Owen-Putnam Forest. Had to get out of town. Stopped at Babbs for a chicken dinner. Escaped to the forest. Fish Creek Road did not disappoint. Both sides of the road were lined with the beauty of late summer flowers. The westside was lined with yellow jewelweed. The eastside was a riot of Jerusalem Artichoke and iron weed. Occasionally, different flowers added a dash of white. Impossible to escape the feeling of driving through an elaborate tunnel on my way to Fish Creek Campground.

Luckily, no one was at the picnic table by the pond. Listening to the crickets chirp as I munch. I hear a few birds; see none. One guy fishing is sitting on a five-gallon bucket. The pond surface is covered with tree pollen dust. A breeze rustles the tree leaves. I notice they are fading already. The recent hot, dry weather has caused the trees to shed early. The vibrant green of summer is fading away. Memories of time spent here with my family and friends flood my heart. Over 50 years of memories. Many changes here and in my life. The dragonflies still fly over the water, sunlight glints off their gossamer wings. The frogs are quiet. The grass is sparse in the shade of the old trees. The bare hard ground is littered with fallen leaves. The dry, hot summer forces the trees to shed leaves to survive. The leaves of the tiny violet plants make up for the lack of grass. They quit blooming long ago but still add beauty. As I remember, 50 years ago, more exotic native plants thrived around this pond. Man changes the land even when he strives to preserve it.

Tears flood my eyes as thoughts of happy times fill my heart. Change is hard to cope with. Changes in my life, changes to the forest campground. I remember when we trudged through the woods up the hill from the road to this pond. There was no road, no picnic tables, no campsites, no toilets, no drinking water. I did not come alone then. I was not an old woman with knees that protested at climbing hills. Sunshine still filters through the trees, fish jump in the small pond, clouds float by lazily. Warmed by the afternoon sun, I absorb serenity from the forest.

A family arrives. A couple, two kids and a grandmother go to the south side of the pond. They dip their bobbers in the dark water. Grandma sits on a chair, pole in hand, giving directions. I envy her. I have no fishing pole or family to share this beautiful afternoon.

The Owen-Putnam State Forest was established in 1948. The forest consists of 6,688 non-contiguous acres mostly in Owen County. This forest is what brought my family to Owen County 46 years ago. My aunt lived on Coon Path. After she and her husband moved to Florida, my husband had to find a new place to hunt deer. He discovered the O-P State Forest. We began to visit regularly. The O-P State Forest once was said to be the finest hardwood stand of trees in the country. I don't know if that is still true. It has suffered a lot of logging in the last few years. I do know the deep ravines and towering stone cliffs are still adorned with fantastic ferns. In spring, the forest floor is a kaleidoscope. The wildlife that abounds is shy but will say hello to patient visitors.

I had planned to include a few facts from my research, but I lack space. The first state forest, Clark, was established in 1903. The last, Mountain Tea in Brown County, was established in 2020. Currently, 15 state forests protect 160,251 acres. Please go visit one.

'til next time,
Annie

I grew up in an older house built sometime around the 1940s. Our house was like a lot of the other houses of the day in that it had an old cellar beneath it. Cellars were usually used for storing things like fruits and vegetables, and it also housed the furnace that heated the house in the winter. Our cellar had a coal furnace. It had to be fed coal and had to be stoked at least twice a day. And as if that wasn't enough, the ashes and embers had to be emptied every day.

To make matters worse, the doors to some cellars were on the outside of the house. Ours was no exception. Our cellar was like something out of an old horror movie. Just looking down the old stairs made the little hairs on the back of my neck stand up. It was very dark down there, and there was almost always a spider web or two hanging from the ceiling. It was an eerie feeling to say the least. When you finally got to the end of the stairs, you had to fumble for the light to turn it on. The light only served to illuminate the room enough to make dark shadows appear across the cellar wall.

There was a back room where the coal was stored, and it was really dark back there. Naturally, as a child, I had a very active imagination. I was convinced that some kind of monster lived back in that coal room. I was sure that it was the same monster that made the shadows on the wall and the sounds that I heard at night coming up through the heat register in my room. My bedroom happened to be right above the cellar. When I would lay in my bed at night and try to go to sleep, almost invariably the noises would begin coming from the cellar. This continued off and on all through the night.

My mother was the one who tried to convince me that the noises were from the furnace, but I was skeptical! What about all the other noises that went "bump in the night?"

Eventually, I developed a peaceful coexistence with the monster in the cellar. I decided as long as I stayed upstairs, and it stayed downstairs, it could make all the noise it wanted. But soon, my truce with the cellar and its inhabitants would end.

The day came when my father announced that I was old enough to start tending to the furnace. Translation: I would have to go down to the cellar by myself. I tried to convince my father I wasn't ready but to no avail.

The next morning, I was on furnace duty. I will never forget the first time that I went down into that cellar alone. All those years of imagining what was down there had finally turned into a childhood fear. As I walked down the cellar steps that morning, I could hear every pop, crack, creak and groan that the old cellar had ever made. When I reached the bottom of the stairs, it was total darkness. I reached for the light and flipped the switch. The dim light lit up the room. There were dancing shadows on the wall. The window in the door on the furnace glowed bright orange. But all I saw was the face of a monster. I was out of there quickly.

Yes, of course I had to go back. With a flashlight in hand, my father accompanied me back into the cellar. We examined every crook and cranny of the place, which was my father's attempt to convince me that there was nothing to fear.

Eventually, I got used to going down in that cellar. And I returned to my peaceful coexistence with the furnace monster. It wasn't long before the old furnace was replaced with a new oil furnace. Years later, I realized that my father had me go to that cellar to attempt to get over my childhood fears.

Time certainly changes things. Children grow older and turn into adults. And furnaces get old and get replaced. But I think that the "things that go bump in the night" will always remain as long as there are children with active imaginations. And of course, those old cellars that house furnace monsters!

Happy Halloween!
-Susan

Oct. 3
7 p.m. – Varsity football vs Brown County at Brown County.

Oct. 4
6 p.m. – Varsity boys' and girls' cross country at Nike Valley Twilight XC at Columbus North.

Oct. 6
6 p.m. – Junior varsity football vs Brown County at Cloverdale.

Oct. 7
6 p.m. – Junior varsity girls' volleyball vs Eminence at Cloverdale.
7:30 p.m. – Varsity girls' volleyball vs Eminence at Cloverdale.

Oct. 9
6 p.m. – Junior varsity girls' volleyball vs Sullivan at Sullivan.
7:30 p.m. – Varsity girls' volleyball vs Sullivan at Sullivan.

Oct. 10
7 p.m. – Varsity football vs West Vigo at Cloverdale.

Oct. 11
10 a.m. – Varsity boys' and girls' cross country at WIC meet at Brown County.

Oct. 13
6 p.m. – Junior varsity football vs West Vigo at West Vigo.

Oct. 17
7 p.m. – Varsity football vs South Putnam at South Putnam.

Oct. 20
6 p.m. – Junior varsity football vs South Putnam at Cloverdale.

Oct. 28
6 p.m. – Varsity girls' basketball scrimmage vs Bloomfield at Bloomfield.

Nov. 4
7:30 p.m. – Varsity girls' basketball vs Riverton Parke at Riverton Parke.

Oct. 3
7 p.m. – Varsity boys' football vs West Vigo at West Vigo.

Oct. 4
10 a.m. – Varsity boys' soccer vs South Vermillion at Owen Valley.
11 a.m. – Junior varsity girls' volleyball vs Lighthouse Christian Academy at Owen Valley.
Noon. – Varsity girls' soccer vs South Vermillion at Owen Valley.
12:30 p.m. – Varsity girls' volleyball vs Lighthouse Christian Academy at Owen Valley.
6 p.m. – Varsity coed cross country at Nike Valley Twilight XC at Brown County.

Oct. 6
6 p.m. – Junior varsity football vs West Vigo at Owen Valley.
6 p.m. – Junior varsity girls' volleyball vs White River Valley at White River Valley.
7 p.m. – Varsity girls' volleyball vs White River Valley at White River Valley.

Oct. 7
6 p.m. – Junior varsity girls' volleyball vs Greencastle at Greencastle.
7 p.m. – Varsity girls' volleyball vs Greencastle at Greencastle.

Oct. 10
7 p.m. – Varsity football vs South Putnam at South Putnam.

Oct. 11
9 a.m. – Varsity girls' volleyball vs North Putnam at North Putnam.
10 a.m. – Varsity co-ed cross country at WIC.

Oct. 13
6 p.m. – Junior varsity football vs South Putnam at Owen Valley.

Oct. 17
7 p.m. – Varsity football vs Heritage Christian at Owen Valley.

Nov. 4
7:30 p.m. – Varsity girls' basketball vs Eastern Greene at Eastern Greene.

Nov. 8
9 a.m. – Girls' wrestling at Sullivan Fall Brawl at Sullivan.
6 p.m. – Junior varsity girls' basketball vs South Vermillion at South Vermillion.
7:30 p.m. – Varsity girls' basketball vs South Vermillion at South Vermillion.

In my last column, I told of a day this summer when I golfed and later that day bluegill fished with a friend. I outfished him. Now normally this would be a good thing, but not if you want to maintain a friendship. Golfing and fishing are similar in that small adjustments make a big difference. The devil, or angel, is truly in the details.

My friend lives out of town and was visiting for the day. We had played 18 at Country Oaks Golf Course near Montgomery, and now later in the afternoon we were at West Boggs, a nice fishery just north of Loogootee. For whatever reason, probably the abundant grass and fertile water, the fish population does well even under heavy angler pressure.

After locating some much-needed shade, we started fishing at about four in the afternoon. We were in a spot I had done well on before, so I knew there was potential. It was a point with submerged stumps about 8-12 feet deep near the bank. I cast my mealworm out with the float set about five feet deep, and I started to catch a few, mostly small gills but with an occasional keeper. He sat and watched his bobber, rather glumly. This pattern continued for several minutes.

Eventually, I realized some things about what he was doing, the silence was getting awkward, and I gave in and discussed some adjustments with him. He caught a few fish then. The issue mentioned last time was that he would leave his bait in one area, while I moved mine around. Covering more water just makes sense.

Cast, wait a few seconds, pull the bait a foot or so very slowly, repeat, and you'll get more attention. There may be times when leaving it in one spot can work, maybe during the spawn. Generally, move the offering around some, looking for the right spot. The action of working the bait helps keep you alert too. He also wanted to see his bobber go under. Frequently, these bluegill just moved it slightly one way or the other.

My friend's next issue: bobber too large. Bluegill, even big ones, can be very finicky about moving the float if there's too much resistance. Even Jaws struggled a little with submerging Quint's yellow barrels. Solution: Use the smallest bobber that's visible, easy to cast, and that will float the bait. I like the weighted ones because they cast distances easier. Often fish I was catching would not pull the bobber under, only move it slightly to the side. Sometimes bluegill, mainly big ones, eat the bait without moving it at all. Good eyesight and paying attention are small but important details. You can't be inattentive bluegill fishing, and don't wait until the bobber submerges to set the hook.

Next issue: hook size. I like a no. 6 gold hook for bluegill. The longer shank makes hook removal easier, and the color is an attractant. His hook was too large, even for bluegill, and the short shank caused him to miss fish or let them swallow the bait too deeply, making it hard to remove. Lots of folks use bluegill or crappie hooks that are too large. Small needle-nose pliers are a must for hook removal. A blue surgical glove will help you avoid fin cuts.

Next issue: casting smoothness. My friend had an open-faced spinning reel. I have never been a fan of that type, but I see TV pros using one all the time. To me, they seem prone to line foul-ups, and my friend was fouled up, with line going hither and yon. I doubt that he had lubricated his reel or changed line lately. I use a closed-face Bass Pro brand casting type reel called a Tiny Lite, and it has done very well. I've tried underspins of various brands in the past, and eventually they end up in the trash. After a time, the line just doesn't feed out smoothly. I also like high-quality fluorocarbon line, about six pounds. A four-pound line would be better, but at many spots, there's brush or grass that fish head for when hooked. You need enough line strength to get them moving your way. If no brush is in the way, a lighter line can work and would be better, but I don't trust it to hold when I swing a big gill into the boat. The heavier line also allows one to bend the hook with a steady pull if hung up.

Next issue: the right rod. I have two long poles, one eight feet and one 10 feet. For crappie, the 10 is nice for dunking a minnow straight down into a small hole in a brush pile. The eight is just right to be able to cast a bobber, which is set at up to about six feet deep, and the action is flexible enough that a bull bluegill will put up a big-time fight. My friend had a short spinning rod that made it awkward to cast a bobber set to the right depth. A slip bobber setup would've been an improvement. Bluegill will rise to a bait to a degree, but not if it's completely out of their eyesight. Four to five feet was the right depth. His rig was set at about two. We finished our couple of hours with 13 fish that we kept, plenty for him to take home and clean. He caught two or three. I wanted him to do better.

There are approximately 487 other factors in fishing that determine the difference between fair and good results. Successful golfing and productive fishing are dependent on many factors.

Paying attention to small details is critical.

By Dixie Kline Richardson
Guest Columnist

On Oct. 13, 1918 in Saint Germain, France, a young Owen County man died of pneumonia, just one statistic among the many world-wide deaths from influenza and pneumonia. The son of a German immigrant, he was a member of Company D, 309 Engineers in the war that was meant to end all wars.

Carl Kaiser was 27-years-old and unmarried. He was born in Patricksburg, Aug. 26, 1891, a son of George Kaiser of Wurttemburg who came to America in 1866. His mother was Mary Hoot or Haute. Like many Americans with German roots, he may have been in battle facing cousins.

From my childhood, I heard the story of Carl Kaiser and his statue on guard at Patricksburg Lutheran Cemetery. My father, who was a boy at the time of the reinterment of Kaiser's remains, told me Kaiser's family wanted a statue that was lifelike; an original work didn't please them. The figure that has stood at the grave since 1921 so resembled the soldier that Patricksburg residents were amazed.

The statue in recent years has shown some damage. There is a nick in the helmet which may have come from hail or a thrown stone, or (we'd like to think not) a BB gun.

Kaiser, who did not die from an enemy bullet or suffer from gas poisoning, nonetheless gave his life in service of his country. Other Owen countians in his regiment were J. W. Egnor Jr., Clarence Hendershot, Robert Hendershot, Larry Crouse, Freal McBride and an Arney.

Fred Kaiser, a brother, wrote, "Carl left us in the best of spirit and his letters always seemed as though he was happy...May our service flag be draped as a memorial of love and eternal gain, of the one blue star whose threads have been changed to gold."

The funeral was held at the Lutheran church where Carl had been baptized at two months. The Reverends L. E. Minneman and H. L. Ridenour officiated at the service. Surviving him were his parents, and siblings Fred, Emma, Mary and Charlot. A sister, Elizabeth, was deceased.

While the Doughboy on the square in Spencer, and its clones all over the country are visible almost to the point of not being noticed, and plainly on the attack, our "other Doughboy" stands silent and vigilant. I always think he's waiting for the time the guns can be put away.

Owen County families are invited to celebrate the start of a new 4-H year at the Fall Enrollment Kick-Off, taking place Oct. 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Owen County Fairgrounds Poultry Barn. This free, family-friendly event promises an evening packed with festive fall activities, valuable information and delicious food—all designed to welcome new and returning youth to the 4-H community.

The event serves as a gateway for youth in grades K–12 to explore the many opportunities available through Owen County 4-H. Whether you're a seasoned member or brand new to the program, this event offers a chance to connect with local clubs, meet volunteers and educators and learn more about the exciting projects and programs planned for the upcoming year.

One of the highlights of the evening is pumpkin painting, a creative and colorful activity that encourages kids to express themselves artistically while celebrating the fall season. Supplies will be provided, and participants can take their painted pumpkins home as a festive keepsake.

In addition to painting, youth can enjoy a variety of pumpkin-themed games that are sure to bring laughter and friendly competition. These hands-on activities are designed to engage kids of all ages and showcase the fun, interactive spirit of 4-H.

Families attending the kick-off will also benefit from an enrollment discount, available exclusively during the event. This special offer makes it easier for new members to join and for returning members to re-enroll. For youth in grades 3 to 12, the regular $20 yearly enrollment fee will be reduced to $15. Even better, Mini 4-H enrollment for grades K to 2, which is normally $5, will be completely free for those who register at the event. This limited-time offer is designed to encourage early sign-ups and reduce financial barriers for families. Additionally, those who sign up in October get to enjoy all the programs and events that 4-H has to offer all year long!

Another key feature of the evening is the opportunity to learn more about community clubs throughout Owen County. Representatives from various community clubs will be on hand to share information, answer questions and help families find the right fit based on interests, location and age group.

To top it all off, attendees can enjoy a free chili cookoff, featuring homemade recipes from 4-H Council members. The warm, hearty meal is a perfect complement to the crisp autumn air and provides a chance for families to relax and connect with others in the 4-H community.

The Fall Enrollment Kick-Off is open to the public, and no prior registration is required. Whether you're curious about joining 4-H for the first time or simply looking for a fun evening out with the family, this event offers something for everyone. From livestock and gardening to robotics and arts, Owen County 4-H offers a wide range of programs that cater to diverse interests and talents. This event is all about bringing people together and showing what 4-H is all about. We want families to feel welcomed, informed and excited about the opportunities ahead.

For more information, contact the Owen County Extension Office at 812-829-5020 or visit the Owen County 4-H Facebook page for updates and details.

Which one of these is making us sneeze? That is the question many MYPath walkers are asking as they walk along the trail, with plants towering over their heads.

The rainy summer provided excellent conditions for plants. All summer we watched plants growing along the trail. We had several discussions about what seeds the major flood might have left behind. In addition, we had been given several packets of wildflower seeds from the Owen County Garden Club, which we had planted in various spots.

Using apps and other tools, we could identify flowers and plants, though not always. It was fun trying to figure out what was growing. But there were four plants we could identify. We knew what they were and what they would do: Johnson grass, cup plant, goldenrod and ragweed.

Johnson grass is a nasty invasive, non-native plant. It looks a little like a corn plant, or maybe a decorative grass. I identify it by a single white stripe that goes down the center of each leaf. If you have some in your yard, come to terms with it. If you pull it, it will come back. If you spray it, it might die. Or it might wait until you are looking the other way and come back. The best bet is to mow it regularly to keep it from going to seed. If you walk MYPath today, you will be flanked by lots of Johnson grass, about eight feet tall.

Another plant is the cup plant. The leaves are shaped into a little hollow section, next to the stem, that holds water. In the late summer, they share a pretty yellow flower. Growing amongst the cup plant is the Jerusalem artichoke, a type of sunflower. Both of these plants provide beautiful yellow flowers at the same time. The Jerusalem artichoke is still blooming right now. It is nice to walk along a wall of yellow.

The other yellow-flowered plant that is blooming right now is goldenrod. It is a common plant that you have seen all your life. The flowers are not single flowers, like a sunflower or daisy. They are a group of smaller yellow flowers along a narrow "finger." Some people don't like the goldenrod because they say the flowers trigger allergies. But goldenrod is NOT the culprit. Instead, the hay fever villain is the plant growing right next to the goldenrod. Ragweed.

On MYPath, we have regular ragweed, and giant ragweed. The giant ragweed is growing 10-feet high. You can't miss them as you walk along the trail. They are leaning over your head, taunting you with their pollen.

Plants handle pollination in different ways. The innocent goldenrod has pretty flowers that attract bees, butterflies and other critters that will carry their pollen to other plants. Ragweed does not have flowers, so it spreads pollen by wind. Or gravity. Wind blows the pollen to other plants, or your nose. When you start sneezing, you are a pollinator. A few of our weekly walkers skip walking MYPath during ragweed season.

If you walk MYPath now, you can scowl at the giant plants without flowers, the Johnson grass and ragweed. And you can enjoy the yellow flowers. This time of year, you might see another creature that is enjoying the yellow flowers, the monarch butterfly.

Even if you sneeze, this is a nice time to visit the trail.

Kyle Hannon is the Project Manager for the MYPath Trail System. He has served in many community development and trail connection roles throughout the state. On many weekends, he serves as an Interpretive Specialist at McCormick's Creek State Park.

Green's Bluff Nature Preserve, a hidden gem nestled in the hills of rural Owen County, is expanding thanks to a recent land donation to The Nature Conservancy (TNC).

Owned and managed by TNC, the preserve comprises 1,134 acres of land and features a grove of eastern hemlock trees, cave entrances and remnants of an old grist mill. Scarlet tanagers, wood thrushes, bobcats and great blue herons have been spotted passing through the area's hardwood forests.

Now, thanks to an anonymous donation to TNC, Green's Bluff will expand by nearly 83 acres. This means more forest protection for Raccoon Creek, which meanders through the preserve. It also means a larger swath of intact forest for migrating songbirds.

"Green's Bluff has a tremendous array of plants and animals," said Vince Garmon, land protection specialist with TNC. "The preserve is actually two separate properties, and the new acreage connects directly to pieces of existing preserve near the center, providing connectivity inside the preserve. These additional protected acres will help flora and fauna thrive."

Apart from the new addition, TNC has been very busy at Green's Bluff over the past several years. TNC has improved existing trails and added interpretive signage to enhance visitor enjoyment. In October, TNC will unveil a new trail engineered and created by the Hoosier Hikers Council.

"It's a great win, not just for TNC but the entire state of Indiana to have this property," Garmon added. "TNC has done a remarkable job of making acquisitions here over the last five years, making this place a scenic destination for all Hoosiers."

Green's Bluff currently features two hiking trails: the North Loop Trail and Raccoon Woods Trails. North Loop Trail is a 1.2-mile moderate loop trail through the northern section of Green's Bluff. The trail overlooks hemlock bluffs above Raccoon Creek, then descends a steep slope to continue along the face of the bluff down to the creek. This portion of the trail can be quite rugged.

The trail continues along the creek, where a sharp eye may notice the stone foundation of James Green's grist mill from the late 1800s.

Raccoon Woods Trail is a 1.4-mile moderate loop trail through the newer southern section of Green's Bluff. After starting in a clearing where TNC has planted rows of oak trees, the trail winds through deep woods with many mature oak, beech and hickory trees. As it descends into steep ravines, the trail crosses spring-fed creeks. Climbing out of the ravines, it offers views of the forest canopy. At the far end of the loop, the trail rises into an open area where TNC is attracting birds and insects with pollinator plantings.

The North Loop Trail can be rugged, while the Raccoon Woods Trail is more moderate. Interpretive signs can be found along both trails.

Travel directions: From Spencer, take S.R. 46 E. to S.R. 43 S. Continue south on S.R. 43S for about five miles, then turn right on to Sherfield Road. This road comes to a "T" after about a mile. Turn left and go about 0.4 mile to where the road ends. You'll see a Green's Bluff Nature Preserve sign at the trailhead.

To get from the North Loop Trail to the Raccoon Woods Trail, head north on Heddings Rd./C.R. 75E to Sherfield Rd./C.R. 525S. Turn right onto Sherfield Rd./C.R. 525S. Travel one mile and then turn right (south) onto State Road 43S. Travel 1.9 miles and turn right onto E. Porter Ridge Rd./C.R. 675S. Travel about two miles. Parking for Raccoon Woods Trail will be on the right (north) side of the road.

New trail opening

Join TNC and the Hoosier Hikers Council (HHC) on Saturday, October 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to celebrate the grand opening of their new trail at Green's Bluff. Described as a five-mile extension to the Raccoon Woods Trail in the southern portion of Green's Bluff, the new trail system will be six miles long and offer views of ephemeral waterfalls, oaks, hickories, ferns, beech and maple trees.

This event is co-hosted by HHC and TNC and will feature special remarks from HHC and TNC leaders about the site and trail, a six-mile or two-mile hike with leaders (your choice), a trail-naming activity and other activities for kids.

Light refreshments will be provided before the hike.

RSVP online at bit.ly/GreensBluffNewTrailOpeningRSVP.

Note: the access and meeting location for this event is NOT a public access area and is only open for this special event.

October is arguably the best month of the year to be outdoors in the Midwest. Archery deer seasons are open across the region. Upland hunters are stretching their legs across the plains. And anglers have so much opportunity they don't know what to do with themselves. If you like catching largemouth bass, now is the time—they're feeding aggressively. The same goes for toothy predators like northern pike and muskie. Panfishing is hot across the region, and anglers are busy filling freezers with bags of bluegill, crappie and perch fillets. With a little planning and calendar management, sportsmen can have it all in October. Now if only the month were a little longer.

Indiana – Cagles Mill crappie

Cagles Mill, also known as Cataract Lake, is located in the west-central part of the state near Cloverdale. The 1,400-acre impoundment is well-known for its crappie fishing. October is a top month for putting limits in the livewell. The reservoir is used for flood control, so conditions vary, but at normal pool, wise anglers focus on fishing standing timber or sunken brush in depths of four to six feet near creek channels. Crappies are caught on jigs or under a bobber with a minnow. White crappie are usually found a little deeper than blacks. In October, crappie are also biting below Cataract Falls at Lieber SRA. Night fishing is popular around boat docks with artificial lights.

Michigan – Archery deer

As the home of Fred Bear, Michigan is often regarded as the birthplace of modern archery hunting. Perhaps no destination in the country has the potential to transport one back to the early days of archery deer hunting like the Upper Peninsula. With a strong deer population spread out across millions of acres of public land, hunters have the opportunity to hunt forests where they'll likely not encounter other hunters. Camping is free on most federal lands, so traditional deer camps pop up all over during the season, which opened on Oct. 1. In the Central UP, Delta and Marquette counties are known for record-book bucks. In the western reaches, Ontonagon and Iron counties produce lots of big, old bucks. The Hiawatha and Ottawa National Forests offer more land than any group of hunters could need. Brook trout fishing and grouse hunting are solid add-ons to an October archery deer hunt in the UP.

Missouri – Pomme de Terre muskie

Pomme de Terre is a premier muskie lake in a part of the country where muskies aren't expected to be found. Located at the southern edge of our country's muskie zone, Pomme is well regarded as the place to go in the Show-Me State to tangle with one of these toothy predators. When the water temperature drops into the 60s in October, the fish feed aggressively in the shallows. Focus on water less than 10 feet deep. With 8,000 acres of surface water, this big reservoir is clear with a rocky bottom. If you can find a distinct weed line along a drop-off deep in a finger, you'll want to fish it with a large in-line spinner or big, shallow-running stickbait. MDC first stocked muskies in Pomme de Terre in 1966, and they have thrived there ever since. Quarry Point Public Use Area is a good starting place.

Ohio – Fall turkey

Fall turkey hunting is nowhere near as popular as spring turkey hunting. This is good news for those strong souls venturing out into the October turkey woods. For the hardcore turkey hunters out there, fall can be a great time to pursue these magnificent birds without much competition. Fall wild turkey season opens on the second Saturday of October. This year that date is Oct. 12. A top tactic in the fall is to locate a flock of turkeys and purposefully break them up, then work on calling them back together. Blue Rock State Forest and Fernwood State Forest are two public properties where you may be able to break up a large flock and call one back to you.

See you down the trail...

For more Driftwood Outdoors, check out the podcast on driftwoodoutdoors.com or anywhere podcasts are streamed.

Hi friends! I'm Jamie Jo Lowder, and I'm thrilled to be your local guide to living your healthiest, happiest life right here in Owen County. From food to family, finances to fitness, I'm all about giving you tips that actually stick—and yes, sometimes that means sprinkling a little pink into your day!

This October, we're turning our attention to Breast Cancer Awareness Month: learning the facts, taking action and having a little fun while we do it. Because staying healthy shouldn't be boring—it should be empowering, down-to-earth and totally doable. Let's dive in!

So, let's talk breast cancer, Indiana style, with a little Extension know-how, a sprinkle of Hoosier humor and some practical steps we can actually take right here in Owen County.

The Reality Check

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Indiana. Each year, about 5,460 Hoosier women are diagnosed, and sadly, about 910 die from it, according to the Indiana Department of Health.

But here's the hope: when breast cancer is found early, the five-year survival rate is an incredible 99 percent. That's about as good a reason as any to stay on top of screenings.

In Owen County, IU Health's Community Health Needs Assessment tells us cancer rates—including breast cancer—are higher than the state average. That means the choices we make here can make a big difference.

So, What Can You Actually Do?

Here's the cheat-sheet version—straight from Purdue Extension, Indiana health experts, and your friendly neighborhood educator voice:

Schedule that mammogram. Women ages 50 to 74 should have one every two years. If you have a family history, talk to your doctor—sometimes starting earlier is best.

Know your "normal." Self-checks aren't perfect, but being familiar with your body helps you notice changes. Think of it like doing a "monthly quality control check."

Move more, sit less. Walk the dog, rake leaves, dance in the kitchen—physical activity lowers your risk. No treadmill required.

Eat smart. Pile your plate with fruits, veggies and whole grains. (The local farmers' market can basically be a breast-health buffet!)

Cut back on alcohol. Even just a little less can lower risk. Swap that extra glass of wine for sparkling water with a splash of juice—you'll still feel fancy.

Support each other. Text a friend: "Got your mammogram scheduled yet?" Make it a buddy outing and reward yourselves with coffee after. Sometimes accountability is what gets it done.

Why This Matters for Owen County

Picture this: if every woman in Owen County who was due for a mammogram actually went, our local screening rate would jump—and survival rates would follow. We don't have to just match the Indiana average (about 72 percent of women screened every two years)—we can beat it.

And when we beat it, it means more birthdays, more grandkids' ballgames and more Sunday dinners. That's the real win.

Wrapping It in a Pink Bow

So, here's the takeaway, friends:

Breast cancer is serious—but beatable when caught early. Indiana has too many women not getting screened, and Owen County can change that story. A few lifestyle tweaks—more movement, smarter eating, less alcohol—lower your risk in real ways. And the best prevention tool is still community: looking out for one another.

This October, don't just wear pink. Live pink. Schedule pink. Support pink.

Because awareness is just the start—action is where lives are saved.

Want to learn more about more exciting programs? Call the Purdue Extension–Owen County office at 812-829-5020. Looking to bring a program to your group? From food and health to family and finance, I've got you covered! Shoot me an email at lowder0@purdue.edu and let's make it happen.

And don't forget — you can always spot my upcoming programs in the Community Calendar section of this newspaper, Facebook page or our website extension.purdue.edu/county/owen/hhshome.html.

OCPL Genealogist Shannon Neff

Tucked inside the Owen County Public Library's genealogy vault are seven filing cabinets overflowing with local family history. From Aarnink to Zulauf, more than 2,000 Owen County families are represented. Some files hold only a few papers, while others are packed to the brim. So, what treasures await you discover inside?

Many files contain Family Group Sheets, the foundation of genealogical research. These organized records list names, birth and death dates, places of residence and burial locations—often connecting multiple branches of a family tree.

You'll also find obituaries, which since the 18th century have served as miniature biographies. Obituaries provide valuable details about a person's life and often include lists of surviving relatives, making them an essential tool for expanding family connections.

Beyond that, the files preserve the beatings of life's milestones—marriages, new babies, school achievements, career advancements, even sports victories. In earlier days, nearly every happening in Owen County made its way into the newspaper, and many of those stories live on here.

Perhaps most captivating are the family stories, both handwritten and published. These personal accounts bring the past to life, offering perspectives that statistics alone cannot capture.

We invite you to step into the genealogy vault and explore this wealth of history for yourself. The collection is always growing, and we welcome donations of organized family history. Owen County veterans and other records of lasting value.

The MYPath 5k run/walk is returning for a second year Saturday, Oct. 18, at 8:30 a.m.

The course begins and ends at the Owen County Fairgrounds, 364 S. East St., in Spencer.

Runners and walkers will cross both paved and natural surface trails as it winds around the fairgrounds, through Cooper Commons, and along the MYPath Riverfront Trail.

It is considered a fast course because it is mostly level.

Registration is $25 plus a sign-up fee and includes a T-shirt. There will be prizes for the fastest times. After Oct. 16, registration increases to $30.

To register, visit runsignup.com and search for MYPath 5k.

Direct questions to mypathspencer@gmail.com.

Proceeds from the event are used by the Friends of MYPath, Inc. for development and maintenance of the trail.

The Gosport Volunteer Fire Department continues to actively seek dedicated individuals to join its volunteer firefighter program.

Applications are available at Gosport Town Hall during normal business hours, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The office is closed for lunch from noon to 12:30 p.m.

Anyone interested is encouraged to apply, regardless of prior experience.

For further details about the volunteer firefighter program and its requirements, call deputy clerk Wanda White at Gosport Town Hall, 812-879-4334.

Gosport Town Hall is located at 7 E. Main St., Gosport.

In early August, just mere weeks ahead of budget hearings, the Owen County Board of Commissioners was thrown a major curveball regarding the county's group health insurance rates.

Ron Remak, President and Owner of Bill C. Brown Associates, informed the commissioners that the two-year rate-locked plan they agreed to with IU Health Plans would not be honored as IU Health Plans sold to Anthem.

Remak said in the August meetings that Anthem was aware of the contract IU Health Plans had with Owen County and that part of the agreement was that the plan rates would be honored.

Remak later came back and said that Anthem agreed to honor the rate, kind of. For budgetary purposes, they would honor the rate for 2026, but if Owen County had a "bad claim year," which was not specifically defined, the county would owe an additional 10 percent in 2027 plus whatever rate increase would take place for that year.

He presented on the matter again at the Sept. 18 commissioners meeting.

"I just wanted to give you an update on the Anthem situation and their lack of commitment to what IU Health Plans had promised. As I mentioned to you, I made a formal complaint to the Indiana Department of Insurance. First time I've done that in 46 years," Remak said.

He noted that Anthem had received the complaint and had until Sept. 25 to respond.

In the meantime, Remak has worked to see what other plans are out there for the county and wanted to present a competitive offer that the county had received from United Healthcare (UHC).

The information about the plan was presented by Scott Thompson, vice president of sales for UHC in Indiana and Kentucky.

"We are a part of United Health Group; that is our parent company. We are fortunate for, but we always say that very modestly, though, because big doesn't always mean good, but in the insurance and health care delivery space, it allows us to truly deploy different solutions to meet the needs of our employer and member partners across the country," Thompson said. "The thing that I think will stand out the most is the network that we're able to provide to your employees and their family members as they are accessing care across the state of Indiana and also all 50 states across the country."

He continued.

"From a network perspective, which we'll get into a little more detail, all the hospitals in the state of Indiana are currently in network with us," Thompson added.

Remak also provided some more context regarding the cost of the insurance.

"If you remember, Anthem came in with again not honoring the commitment that IU Health Plan had made, but they did come in and say, 'Look, where we think you should be is 10 percent higher than what you are currently with IU Health Plans.' Again, this would be for 2026. What they said though, they would bill you the exact same amount of premiums that you are being billed for for IU Health Plans with the idea though at the end of 2026 or early 2027, they would look at claims and if you haven't had a good claims year, then they can ask for that additional 10 percent that they're charging," Remak said. "So, although we appreciate the fact that they're willing to help you from a budget standpoint, the reality is you still have that exposure if you don't have as good a claims year as you've had the last few years. And again, trends are excellent. You guys have been healthier for quite a while. But as you know, as well as I do, some things you can't predict."

Remak said the cost and coverage is almost identical, but it provides employees with a larger network of providers.

"And then you can see premiums, they're really just coming in, matching the premiums, which will guarantee you no stipulation that the premiums for 2026 are going to be what you had budgeted for, exactly the same as you currently have," Remak added.

Commissioners Sam Hobbs and Norm Warner were present at the meeting, and they asked about a multiyear contract, citing concerns that the rates would be low for 2026 but steeply increase the year after.

Thompson said that is something that has to be reviewed with the company's underwriters.

Instead, he offered why he does not believe steep increases are part of UHC's plans for doing business with the county.

"Doing business here in the state of Indiana, we've been able to grow our business year over year, and we don't do that by buying business on the front end and then increasing the rates in year two," Thompson said. "From our perspective, there's a lot of time and investment we make in the front end to bring on a new customer, educate members, make sure that everything's set up correctly. So we both try to take a long-term approach that we're underwriting on the new business side so that we can maintain long-term relationships."

Remak added that throughout his time in business, IU Health Plans was the first to come up with a two-year rate guarantee, which was dependent on participation in healthy results, preventative health screening and other preventative measures.

"I'm not surprised by their answer," Remak concluded.

Warner asked about the clinic at Owen Valley Middle School that employees can currently use. That clinic is a separate contract not related to health insurance, though it does help cut down on the number of claims, which helps with the rates for the county's group health insurance.

Thompson said that UHC asks for 60 days for implementation.

No decision was made at the Sept. 18 meeting, and the commissioners said they planned to consider it at the Oct. 2 meeting so it could be properly budgeted for during the Oct. 14 council meeting.

"I don't want to wait up until November to make this decision to change over," Hobbs said. "I don't want any employee being left in the dark."

The Cloverdale Community School Corporation (CCSC) Board of Trustees officially adopted the corporation's 2026 budget, Capital Projects Plan and School Bus Replacement Plan during the board's monthly meeting held Sept. 9.

Acting on a recommendation from CCSC Superintendent Greg Linton, the board voted 7-0 to approve the requests.

Linton noted approval of the 2026 budget would provide him with the authority to file Form 4 with the Department of Local Government Finance (DLGF) to request advertised levies for the Debt Service, Pension Bond and Operation Funds, all of which were discussed during the board's previous budget workshop and hearing held Aug. 25.

In addition, the board approved all related resolutions needed to manage the corporation's 2026 budget.

Coverage of the corporation's 2026 budget workshop held Aug. 25 was featured in the September issue of The Owen News and can be found online.

Regarding communications, the board recognized the corporation's Student of the Month honorees for September, which included Cloverdale Elementary School (CES) student Jenna Tanner, Cloverdale Middle School (CMS) student Remington Neumann and Cloverdale High School (CHS) student Jaydhan Maybaum.

Also recognized were Ella Haltom and Kinzlee Cummings, who earned Good Citizen Awards for the month of September, presented by CCSC School Resource Officer (SRO) Roger Tonna.

In other new business, the board approved the renewal of the current coaching staff at CMS, including Traci Scott, co-ed cross country; Todd Rightmyer, eighth-grade football; Jacob Whitaker, seventh-grade football; Jimmy Kelso, seventh/eighth-grade football assistant; Chelsey Adams, eighth-grade volleyball; Lori Pieper, seventh-grade volleyball; Brandon Moon, eighth-grade boys' basketball; Kiersten Wade, eighth-grade girls' basketball; Todd Rightmyer, wrestling; Billy Pigg, wrestling assistant; Sara Howard, girls' track; and Aleksey Stewart, track assistant.

The board also approved a request from CMS Principal Chelsey Meluch to create an additional instructional assistant position at the school. Meluch stated in her request how "this position would primarily work with our special education students in providing access to their accommodations in general education classrooms," noting the school has experienced an increase in the number of high-need students this school year.

Next, the board approved and formally accepted a check in the amount of $1,000 awarded to CES by the Mary Allison Children's Fund.

"We are truly grateful to the Mary Allison Children's Fund for their continued support of students at Cloverdale Elementary School," Linton said.

In other new business, the board approved the latest cash transfer-ins, with Linton noting the corporation has welcomed 75 additional students since February.

In addition, the board approved the following field trip and facility use requests:

Field trips
Sept. 10 – LIM Council, CMS B112.
Sept. 10 – Horticulture Class, Marvin's Floral.
Sept. 16 – Jobs for America's Graduates (JAG), ISU, Bloomington.
Sept. 18 – AG students, Purdue University, Lafayette.
Sept. 18 – AP Spanish and Advanced Art, Newfields.
Sept. 20 – FFA Horticulture Team, Purdue University, Lafayette.
Sept. 22 – CHS junior and senior classes, Putnam County Fairgrounds.
Sept. 23 – CMS seventh grade, Putnam County Fairgrounds.
Oct. 2 – CHS FFA Livestock Skillathon Team, Clay County Fairgrounds.
Oct. 2 – BPA, Indiana State University, Terre Haute.
Oct. 9 – Sixth-grade class, Beasley's Orchard, Danville, IN.
Oct. 10 – Pre-K 4, Beasley's Orchard, Danville, IN.
Oct. 11 – CHS FFA Livestock Skillathon Team, Purdue ASREC Farm.
Oct. 12 – CHS Band, Martinsville Fall Foliage Festival.

Facility use
Sept. 13, 27, 28 – Cloverdale Community Youth League (CCYL), football field and concession, youth league games for football and cheer.
Sept. 13 – CHS junior class, CHS auxiliary gym, Homecoming Dance.
Sept. 25 to May 26, every other Wednesday – Girl Scout Troop 1142, CES cafeteria, meetings.
Sept. 28 – CHS Junior Post Prom Committee, CES gymnasium and playground, post prom fundraiser.
Oct. to Dec., Saturdays and Sundays – Cloverdale Winter Guard, CES gymnasium, Elevate Winter Guard instruction.
Oct. 8 – CHS and CMS Band, CHS cafetorium, Fall Concert.
Dec. 10 – CHS and CMS Band, CHS cafetorium, Winter Concert.
Jan to Apr., Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays – Cloverdale Winter and Class A Winter Guard, CES gymnasium, Elevate Winter Guard instruction.
Jan. 12 – CMS PTO, CMS Media Center, PTO meeting.
Apr. 17 – District VII FFA, CHS, host District Leadership Contest.

Additional personnel matters receiving unanimous board approval included:

Resignations
Renee Dyer – part-time, café.

Employment
Traci Scott – CHS Student Council sponsor lead.
Alison Dobbs – CHS Student Council sponsor assistant.
Erin Robertson – CES special education teacher.
Jane Huge – CHS part-time AEP discipline assistant.
Christainey Williams – CMS instructional assistant.

FMLA
Kiley Cope – CMS teacher.

Coaching hire
Kassie Wade – CHS assistant volleyball coach.

The Cloverdale Community School Board will meet again on Tuesday, Oct. 13, beginning at 7 p.m. in the Arthur L. Johnson Administration Building, 310 E. Logan St., Cloverdale. Members of the board include Vivian Whitaker, Katrina Lewis, Donna Fidler, Melissa Carrell, Emily Haltom, Joe Mann and Mike Rightmyer II.

U.S. Army Private First Class (Pfc.) Brett Everett Wood, a 2010 graduate of Owen Valley High School, was remembered and honored at separate events held in Gosport and Spencer in the month of September.

Wood, 19, served during Operation Enduring Freedom and was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Fort Wainwright, Alaska.

He was killed in Mushan, Kandahar province, Afghanistan, when insurgents attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device (IED) on Sept. 9, 2011.

Wood joined the Army in July 2010 and graduated from Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Benning, Georgia. He arrived in Alaska in November 2010. His brigade had deployed to Afghanistan in mid-April 2011 for a planned one-year tour in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

A Patriot Day Celebration held Sept. 13 in Gosport Town Park honored several Gold Star Families, those who have lost an immediate family member in the line of duty of military service, including the families of Pfc. Wood, Army Sgt. Christopher K. Hilgert, Marine Lance Cpl. Kyle Price and Army Staff Sgt. James Patton.

"To you, the mothers and fathers, husbands and wives, sons and daughters, brothers and sisters of the fallen, we offer our deepest gratitude and respect," began VFW Post #7850 Commander Michael Oaks. "Your loved ones gave the last full measure of devotion to this nation, and you've worn that sacrifice with strength and dignity. Please know that we see you, we honor you, and we will never forget the price your family has paid for our freedom."

Oaks recalled one of the darkest days in our nation's history – Sept. 11, 2001.

"Our nation awoke to a morning like any other, but by the end of that day our world had been forever changed," he said. "We all remember where we were when we heard the news, and we remember the shock and disbelief and the grief, but we also remember something else, the way our nation came together in the days that followed. Strangers comforted one another, communities rallied, and Americans stood united under one flag. Out of the smoke and rubble rose the enduring spirit of the American people. That is why Sept. 11 is not only a day of mourning, but also a day of remembrance of what it means to be a Patriot."

Oaks noted the global war on terror would become the longest conflict in American history.

"With that came sacrifice, lives lost and families changed long after the battlefield," he said. "As we pause to honor those who gave their lives in the years since 9-11, let us also remember that they stand in a long and unbroken line of American heroes, from the Revolution that first secured our freedom to the battlefields of the Civil War that preserved our Union. From the trenches of World War I to the beaches of World War II, to the frozen hills of Korea, the jungles of Vietnam and the sands of the Persian Gulf. Every generation that produced Patriots who were willing to lay down their lives for liberty. We are here today because of them, because of their courage, their sacrifice and their families who bore their absence. Patriot Day reminds us that their legacy did not end in the pages of history; it lives on in every veteran and every Gold Star Family and in every citizen who chooses to serve something greater than themselves."

The program also featured guest speaker, retired Brigadier General Michael Osburn.

General Osburn began his career as an enlisted soldier in the U.S. Army in 1975 and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Indiana Army National Guard in June 1982. He deployed to Afghanistan in 2010 as Commander of 2nd Battalion, 19th Agribusiness Development Team and later served as the Deputy Commander, 81st Troop Command, during the Indiana floods of 2008.

In addition, General Osburn's long and distinguished career included serving as Commander of Division Artillery, commanding a 1,000 person hurricanes Katrina and Rita Task Force in 2005, as well as serving as the Commander of Operation Noble Eagle from 2003 to 2005.

"Those who have served and those who are currently serving in the United States Armed Forces are ever mindful that the sweetness of enduring peace has always been tainted by the bitterness of personal sacrifice," General Osburn said. "We are compelled to never forget that while we enjoy our daily pleasures, there are others who have endured and may still be enduring agony of pain, deprivation and internment. We must never forget it is the strength of our military that has brought us to this point, and it is that strength that will continue to ensure our liberties."

Each of the Gold Star Families in attendance was later presented with triangular flags in wooden display boxes, along with Gold Star Family flags presented by the VFW Post #7850.

The following morning, Sept. 14, a special program was held in front of the Owen County War Memorial in downtown Spencer, featuring words of remembrance, stories of military service, laughter and countless tears from those who served alongside Pfc. Wood. The group also visited his headstone, located near the Soldiers Memorial Pavilion inside Riverside Cemetery.

Those who took part in the program, many traveling long distances to be in attendance, said it helped provide some closure to Pfc. Wood's passing. They told of visiting his headstone and the significance of placing coins on headstones of a service member or veteran as a show of respect and honor. A penny, they said, means someone has visited the grave. A nickel signifies that the visitor served with the deceased service member at boot camp. A dime means the visitor and deceased service member served together at some point. A quarter, they said, is left by someone who was physically with the service member when they died.

The words spoken during the 30-minute program by Pfc. Wood's fellow soldiers could best be summed up by a post shared to the In Remembrance of Brett Wood Facebook page the following day by Eric Yepez of Fresno, California: "Brett was more than a uniform – he was a son, a friend, a brother and a hero. His courage, dedication and selflessness will never be forgotten. Though his time with us was far too short, his impact is everlasting. We carry his memory with us every day, and we speak his name with pride. Rest in peace, Brett. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten."

Originally dedicated on Aug. 31, 1911, the historic Owen County Courthouse dome is once again shining as bright as a new penny in downtown Spencer.

Precision Construction and Roofing was behind the Herculean restoration effort following extensive hail damage suffered in June 2023. The project was financed via a county insurance claim.

The scope of the project included a new copper exterior for the dome and a new rubber membrane for the courthouse's flat roof. Additionally, the windows on the dome were repaired, painted and permanent coverings installed to protect the dome's original windows from the elements of weather.

According to a Sept. 15 post on the Precision Construction and Roofing Facebook page, "every inch of the dome was hand-fabricated from 20-ounce ribbon copper and installed piece by piece onsite, a true team effort from start to finish."

The new dome will at first have the bright copper color of a newly minted penny but will slowly turn a dark brown color. Then over time, the copper will achieve a classic green patina due to chemical interactions with the environment.

A major new federal law will change the way many people plan their taxes, estates and charitable giving beginning in 2026.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), signed into law on July 4, 2025, makes permanent several tax provisions from 2017 and adds new rules that will shape how individuals support organizations like the Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF).

"These changes bring more certainty to families planning ahead," reported OCCF president & CEO, Janet Rummel. "But they also mean donors should be aware of new opportunities and challenges."

A More Stable Tax Landscape

The new law locks in several key tax provisions that were scheduled to expire in 2025:

• Estate and gift tax exemption rises to $15 million per person ($30 million for couples).
• Standard deduction increases to $15,750 for single filers and $31,500 for joint filers.
• Top income tax rate stays at 37 percent instead of reverting to 39.6 percent.

For families considering legacy gifts or larger contributions, this stability provides a clearer framework for long-term planning.

Changes That Affect Giving

Several new rules directly impact charitable donors:

• Deduction for nonitemizers: Starting in 2026, taxpayers who don't itemize can deduct up to $1,000 (single) or $2,000 (joint) in cash gifts to public charities like OCCF. This does not apply to Donor Advised Funds or private foundations.

• "Giving floor" for itemizers: Donors who itemize must now contribute at least 0.5 percent of their adjusted gross income (AGI) before gifts are deductible. For example, with an AGI of $100,000, the first $500 in giving cannot be deducted. This may encourage donors to "bundle" multiple years of giving into one larger gift.

• Cap for high-income donors: Those in the top 37 percent tax bracket will see deductions capped at 35 percent of income. Donors considering significant contributions may want to act in 2025 to maximize benefits.

• Cash gift deduction limit stays high: Donors may continue to deduct cash gifts up to 60 percent of AGI, a rule now made permanent.

• Extra deduction for seniors: From 2025 through 2028, taxpayers age 65+ can claim an additional $6,000 deduction, even without itemizing. The benefit phases out above $75,000 for single filers and $150,000 for couples.

What Donors Can Do Now

While most people give because they care about causes, tax incentives often affect how much and when they give. OCCF encourages donors to review their situation and consider steps such as:

• High earners: Talk with your advisor about making gifts before the end of 2025 to avoid new limits.
• Annual givers: Consider combining two or more years of giving into one larger gift to clear the new deduction floor.
• Nonitemizers: Plan to use the new $1,000/$2,000 charitable deduction starting in 2026.
• Seniors: Factor in the additional $6,000 deduction when planning your charitable support.

Lasting Impact in Owen County

"Tax laws may shift, but the impact of your giving here at home does not," said OCCF staff. "Every gift helps strengthen Owen County, whether you're supporting education, youth programs, community spaces or local nonprofits. We're here to help donors make the most of these new rules while continuing to support the causes they love."

Residents with questions about how the new tax law may affect their charitable giving are encouraged to contact the Owen County Community Foundation at 812-829-1725, email operations@owencountycf.org, or visit owencountycf.org.

The Owen County Community Foundation does not provide legal, tax or financial advice. Donors should consult with their own advisors to determine the most appropriate strategies for their individual circumstances.

The following marriage licenses were issued since the last issue of The Owen News. Please note that this information is based on the applications. Marriage licenses are valid for 60 days from when they are issued, and the information below does not reflect whether or not the two individuals followed through with a marriage or if the signed marriage license was returned to the Owen County Clerk's office.

9-2
Kaleb Austin Bryant Dill (age 22) & Kirstin Leigh Richardson (age 23)

9-4
Marissa Oldham (age 24) & Nickolas Langley (age 26)

9-5
Alyssia Kaye Barnett (age 22) & Trystin Arthur Kirkhoff (age 21)

9-8
Megan E. Freeman (age 30) & Kevin Delp (age 29)
Corey Lee Brown (age 32) & Christina Nicole Hayden (age 29)

9-9
Shaydon Stickels (age 19) & Emily Collier (age 19)

9-10
Kevin Troy Cazee (age 50) & Josette Renee Black (age 54)

9-11
Bruce Sherfield (age 62) & Megan Russell (age 36)
Kain Gregory Bates (age 24) & Mason Lynn Miller (age 23)

9-19
Ashley Tequila Rose Fullen (age 26) & Jared Carlisle Kindred (age 27)

9-22
David Spadie (age 30) & Tarra Hammack (age 22)

9-24
Michelle Sue Hume (age 44) & Duane Allan Miller (age 44)

9-25
Claire Knies (age 24) & Cake Bunch (age 23)

9-26
Jesse Daniel Wilcoxon (age 27) & Emma Beth Mazur (age 22)

The following dissolutions of marriages were filed since the last issue of The Owen News in Owen County Circuit Court 2.

9-5
Kristan Crecelius-Powell & Dan Powell

9-12
Kylee A. Carlin & William D. Carlin

9-15
Nicholas Mehalick & Roxanne Terrell

9-17
Donald James Mills & Julie Mills

9-19
Airionna Nicole Hunter & Dustin Lee Arnold
Annika Gilbert & Lydiah Gilmore

9-22
Tiffany Minick & Samuel Minick

EDITOR'S NOTE: Booking information is provided by the Owen County Security Center. These are preliminary charges and may change as cases are processed through the circuit court system. To follow a court case, search the state's court records at mycase.in.gov. This information is public record. All people are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

9-1
Gretchen Carlisle, 60, Freedom, preliminary charges of possession of paraphernalia, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia. Arrested by Indiana Conservation Officer Caleb Hutchison.

9-2
Robert Addington, 56, Spencer, preliminary charge of burglary. Owen County Sheriff's Department (OCSD) Deputy Brennan Clark was the arresting officer.

9-3
Rhonda Hodge, 74, Gosport, preliminary charge of operating while intoxicated. Arrested by Spencer Police Department (SPD) officer Ben Muncie.

9-5
Ever Munoz Gonzalez, 24, Indianapolis, preliminary charges of alcohol-minor transporting alcohol, possession or consumption; failure to appear. OCSD Deputy Jacob Williamson was the arresting officer.

Nicholas Ritz, 47, Lafayette, IN, preliminary charge of nonsupport of child. Arrested by OCSD Deputy John Lowder II.

9-9
Bree Moore, 27, Paoli, preliminary charges of battery (two counts) and battery by bodily waste. OCSD Deputy Jordan Hardey was the arresting officer.

Nicole White, 43, Mitchell, preliminary charges of unlawful possession of a syringe, possession of methamphetamine, neglect of a dependent, maintaining a common nuisance, dealing in methamphetamine, and probation violation. Arrested by SPD officer Zachary Brock.

Shawn Sondergard, 44, Mitchell, preliminary charges of unlawful possession of a syringe, theft, probation violation, and use of private land without consent. Indiana Conservation Officer Matt Mauder was the arresting officer.

Tessla Wichlacz, 48, Bloomington, preliminary charge of public intoxication. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Jacob Williamson.

9-10
Jasmine Gates, 27, Bedford, preliminary charge of theft. SPD officer Chester Richardson was the arresting officer.

Jeremy Devylder, 46, Gosport, preliminary charges of domestic battery and invasion of privacy. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Jordan Hardey.

9-11
Rebecca Schwartz, 32, Spencer, preliminary charge of driving while suspended with a prior charge. OCSD Deputy Elijah Volrich was the arresting officer.

9-12
Virgil Jones, Jr., 71, Poland, IN, preliminary charges of driving while suspended with a prior charge and operating while intoxicated. Arrested by SPD officer Bryce Brock.

9-14
Dalton Morgan, 28, Freedom, preliminary charge of driving while suspended with a prior charge. OCSD Sergeant Torrey Wallace was the arresting officer.

9-15
Jordan Hancock, 28, Spencer, preliminary charge of domestic battery. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Brennan Clark.

Brittany Freeman, 35, Gosport, preliminary charges of possession of paraphernalia and possession of methamphetamine. OCSD Deputy Jordan Hardey was the arresting officer.

Brandi Holmes, 33, Spencer, preliminary charge of battery resulting in bodily injury. Arrested by Spencer Chief of Police Terry Sips.

9-17
Anderson Lewis, 19, Bloomington, preliminary charges of operating with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .15 or more, operating while intoxicated endangering a person, and alcohol – minor transporting alcohol, possession or consumption. SPD officer Ben Muncie was the arresting officer.

9-19
Toni Whipple, 44, Indianapolis, preliminary charges of failure to appear and auto theft. OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller was the arresting officer.

James Stewart, 48, Poland, IN, preliminary charges of driving while suspended with a prior charge and failure to appear. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Elijah Volrich.

9-21
Brian Marchiando, 47, Spencer, preliminary charges of possession of methamphetamine, driving while suspended with a prior charge, possession of paraphernalia, and possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia. OCSD Sergeant Brandon Gasparovic was the arresting officer.

9-22
Caedyn Smith, 19, Spencer, preliminary charges of pointing a firearm, criminal recklessness, and disorderly conduct. Arrested by OCSD Deputy William Browne.

9-25
Kyle Bell, 24, Bedford, preliminary charges of resisting law enforcement, reckless driving, driving without a license, and failure to appear. OCSD Major William Snodgrass was the arresting officer.

Philip Dennison, 59, Spencer, preliminary charges of obstruction of justice, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of paraphernalia. Arrested by OCSD K9 Deputy Charles Hallam.

Jennelle Naanes, 39, Gosport, preliminary charges of theft (two counts) and probation violation. OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller was the arresting officer.

9-27
Kristie Rundell, 53, Bloomington, preliminary charge of operating a vehicle while intoxicated endangering a person. Arrested by Indiana State Police Trooper Clay McBride.

9-28
Marshall Walker, 38, Bicknell, IN, preliminary charges of probation violation and dealing in methamphetamine. OCSD Deputy Brennan Clark was the arresting officer.

9-29
Betty Perez, 44, Indianapolis, preliminary charges of possession of cocaine or a narcotic drug, theft, and possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Tony Stevens.

Joshua Stahl, 43, Freedom, preliminary charges of resisting law enforcement and invasion of privacy. OCSD Deputy Riley Pardue was the arresting officer.

Michael Love, 42, Martinsville, preliminary charges of operating with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .15 or more, operating while intoxicated endangering a person, and neglect of a dependent; child selling. Indiana State Police Trooper Clay McBride was the arresting officer.

Routine food inspections were conducted by the Owen County Health Department during the month of September 2025. Reported below are the critical and non-critical comments left for these establishments:

9-15
The Back Forty Farm & Kitchen, 2780 S.R. 46E, Spencer. Pre-operational. No violations.

9-20
Lainey's Watering Trough, drink truck, temporary, Apple Butter Festival. No violations.

FoodieGang Bites, food truck, temporary, Apple Butter Festival. No violations.

Lumpia Creations, food stand, temporary, Apple Butter Festival. No violations.

King Kones Indy, food truck, temporary, Apple Butter Festival. No violations.

Kornfed Kettle Korn, food stand, temporary, Apple Butter Festival. No violations.

Hoosier Minis, food truck, temporary, Apple Butter Festival. No violations.

Wever's Smoke Eaters BBQ, food truck, temporary, Apple Butter Festival. No violations.

Shaggy's Concessions, food truck & stand, temporary, Apple Butter Festival. No violations.

Taqueria Mil Amores, food truck, temporary, Apple Butter Festival. No violations.

Rye's Concessions, food truck, temporary, Apple Butter Festival. Non-critical violation: fans need to be cleared of dust.

The Shucker Shak, food truck, temporary, Apple Butter Festival. No violations.

Work began late last month to restore the "Spirit of the American Doughboy" statue outside of the Owen County Courthouse.

The project will include pouring a new concrete plaza around the Doughboy statue, adding limestone benches and placing a total of seven obelisks near that corner of the courthouse.

Six of the obelisks or stone pillars will be for each branch of the United States Military, and they will be lighted in the evening. There will be a different, smaller obelisk or pillar honoring Ernest Moore "E.M." Visquesney, the sculptor of the Doughboy.

The Doughboy was created to honor the veterans and casualties of World War I. Visquesney was from Spencer.

In addition, the project will include a few small concrete pads added near the existing flagpole to make it ADA accessible and support a podium for memorial events.

There will also be a new sidewalk connecting the Doughboy to the perimeter sidewalk around the Courthouse.

The limestone for the project is coming from Romona Quarry, which is based in Owen County and is the quarry from which the original base of the Doughboy statue.

The goal is to have the project completed in time for the plaza to be rededicated on Veterans Day in November.

Cris Lunsford and Jack White have spearheaded the project with support from the Owen County Commissioners and the Owen County Community Foundation.

A single-story home on North Jefferson Street in Gosport was destroyed by a quick-moving blaze that broke out in the early morning hours of Sept. 22.

The first wave of firefighters from the Gosport Volunteer Fire Department arrived on the scene around 2:15 a.m. and were later joined by personnel and equipment from the Paragon VFD and Owen Valley Fire Territory, along with emergency personnel from the Owen County EMS and Owen County Sheriff's Department.

Danny Carpenter, the occupant of the home at 404 N. Jefferson St., reportedly escaped the fire unharmed.

Owned by the South Central Community Action Program (SCCAP) of Monroe County, the 1,100 square foot home was later deemed a total loss.

In addition, the intense heat of the fire heavily damaged a portion of the vinyl siding and privacy fence of an adjacent home owned by Jessica Wilson at 21 W. Greencastle Ave.

Firefighters, who were called back to the scene around 6:50 a.m. to address a rekindle, estimated the blaze required around 6,000 gallons of water to fully extinguish.

Although the exact cause remained under investigation at press time, officials believed the source of the fire was likely electrical in nature.

The month of October brings fall, which also brings fall festivals. Several different festivals will take place in Owen County within the next month. Here are a few worth noting.

Cataract Volunteer Fire Department Bean Dinner Festival: Oct. 3 to 5

The Cataract Volunteer Fire Department will host the 56th annual Bean Dinner Festival, set for Oct. 3 to 5 in northwestern Owen County.

The festival will, of course, feature the CVFD's signature ham and beans cooked over an open fire. Beans will be served from noon to 8 p.m. on Oct. 3, 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 4 and 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 5.

The event also features live music and more than 125 vendors.

For more information, visit cataractfire.com or email cataractbeandinner@yahoo.com.

The Cataract VFD relies on this festival to generate more than 60 percent of its annual operating funds.

Spencer Pride Festival: Oct. 4

The annual Spencer Pride Festival will take place from noon to 7 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 4 in downtown Spencer.

The festival includes free parking and free admission.

The event will feature live, local entertainment, and local brewery Civilian Brewing Corps will be onsite selling alcohol for those 21 and over.

This year's festival marketplace will feature more than 150 booths from retail businesses and not-for-profit organizations. A huge variety of festival foods will be available, including cotton candy, pretzels, fresh baked goods, elephant ears, specialty ice cream, candies and more.

Additionally, plazas will be spread throughout the event, where individuals can gather and focus together.

Official Spencer Pride Festival merchandise will be on sale at the festival, including limited edition t-shirts which tend to sell out during the event. These items are available at the Spencer Pride commUnity center, located on the north side of the Owen County Courthouse square.

A variety of free Health & Wellness services, including HIV screening, vaccinations and more, will also be available at the Spencer Pride Festival. The festival also features a blood drive.

There is also a ticketed 21+ only after party hosted at the Spencer Pride commUnity center. Tickets can be purchased online.

The Spencer Pride Festival is a place where all are welcome, regardless of their age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, socioeconomic status or ability. For more information, visit spencerpride.org, call 812-652-5000, or email info@spencerpride.org.

Fiesta! Owen County: Oct. 11

Fiesta! Owen County is making its return on Saturday, Oct. 11.

Get ready for an unforgettable celebration of culture, music and community. The event takes place from 2 to 8 p.m. on Market Street in downtown Spencer, adding more than two additional hours of fun.

Fiesta! Owen County will feature salsa dancing, Lotería, crafts, cultural booths, piñata and authentic Hispanic food.

Bring your family and friends to celebrate together with great music, delicious food and lots of fun activities.

Event sponsors include the Owen County Chamber of Commerce, Boston Scientific and the Sweet Owen Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Pumpkins in the Park: Oct. 11

The annual Pumpkins in the Park at the Gosport Town Park will take place from 3 to 6 p.m. Oct. 11.

While this event isn't free, all proceeds go to support the Lazy Days Festival.

Admission is $10 and includes games, pumpkin painting, a bounce house, face painting, pinatas, potato sack races and a pumpkin roll relay.

The event is sponsored by Gosport Dental, Insurance Services, Gosport VFW Post 7850 & Auxiliary, The Crazy Lady Nextdoor, Penguin Cycle Works, Harriman Farms & Greenhouse, Brighton Developments, Babbs, Harvest Moon Farms & Winery, Value Market, Niki Gessler Artist, 67 Auto Salvage, Style Station and Owen County State Bank.

Arts in the Park: Oct. 25

Sweet Owen Arts Commission will host an inaugural Arts in the Park and Classic Car Show.

The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 25 in Cooper Commons Park.

Car show registration begins at 11 a.m., with awards starting at 3:30 p.m.

The event will feature live performances, live demonstrations, kid activities, art, food and fun.

Vandalia Chili Fest: Nov. 2

The annual Vandalia Community Preservation Association (VCPA) Chili Fest will take place on Sunday, Nov. 2, from 1 to 4:30 p.m. Chili and dessert will be served in the historic Vandalia one-room schoolhouse beginning at 1 p.m. The multi-talented Lloyd Wood and Band will perform a variety of classic country music in the Vandalia Historical Chapel starting at 2 p.m.

Enjoy an afternoon of great entertainment and food while supporting a great cause. The cost of the event is $12 for adults and $5 for children (age 10 and under), which includes both the meal and the live music.

Proceeds benefit VCPA for preservation and maintenance of the historic chapel and schoolhouse. The event will take place in the village of Vandalia (six miles west of Spencer on S.R. 46) at 5471 Vandalia Rd., Spencer.

Visit the VCPA Facebook page, facebook.com/vandaliacpa, and website, vandaliacpa.org, for more information.

A few years ago, I had the chance to play golf and fish on the same day, a retirement dream.

An old friend who resides out of town and who loves golf was coming for the day. I decided Country Oaks Golf Course and West Boggs Lake would make a nice combo, wrapping up with a bountiful meal with our wives at Stoll's Restaurant right on the water.

It doesn't get much better than that.

Golf and fishing are similar in that to be successful, one must pay attention to the details. A slight tweak can make a big difference.

It was my first time at Country Oaks. According to the pro shop guy, this course rates as one of the top 25 toughest in Indiana.

Having played very little around the state, I'd take his word for it after my round. It's a tough layout, all right, even when you play from the senior tees.

The course is a monster from the back tees.

On the front nine, I kept struggling with my putts. Nothing unusual there.

Finally, I discovered that zone when you stand over your ball, eye the line and feel confident that it's going in or at least it will be close. All it took was a slight adjustment to my stance, and the ball started dropping more often.

On my drives, all it took to get more roll distance was a slight upward angling of my shoulders, like the guy in Golf magazine said to do. I gained maybe five to 10 yards.

Every little bit helps.

I shot a better score on the back nine than I did on the front, which shocked me. I thought that after four hours of golf I'd wilt in the afternoon sun, but instead I found a rhythm and employed those small changes, and the result was a decent score for me.

Hitting Boggs about four o'clock, we were after the lake's big bluegill. I knew a place where we could be in the shade and still catch something, I hoped.

The July sun was bearing down.

We arrived at the spot, I rigged up and soon began catching fish, although not the size I had seen in the spring. Still, there was action.

My friend rigged up and cast out in the same area. I caught a bluegill.

He continued to sit and watch his bobber. I caught another, and another, and another.

Most were non-keepers, but still it was fun.

Now, here's the dilemma. Do I tell him what to do to correct the problem, or just let it go?

He wasn't asking me for advice. He was just watching his large bobber sit motionless, or so he thought.

Earlier on the golf course, I had made a suggestion about his putting that seemed to help. That was with his permission.

Now, I wasn't sure that I should give advice when none was asked for.

Finally, I couldn't stand my success and his lack of it any longer. I offered to look at his rig and see what the problem was.

He complied, somewhat reluctantly. He had caught bluegill before with this same setup, and he couldn't understand why he wasn't catching them now.

One difference in our fishing styles was that he cast his bait out to one spot and waited. I would cast, wait a few seconds, pull the rig very slowly about a foot, wait a few seconds, and repeat.

Fish tend to move in and out of an area, unless it's spawning time. Covering more water just makes sense, and the moving bait gets more attention.

Another issue was his waiting until he saw the bobber go completely under before he would react. Often these bluegills would only slide my bobber one way or the other a few inches, alerting me to set the hook.

Very few of them took it all the way under, even the larger ones. Bluegill fishing is relaxing, yes, but one must be alert to what the bobber is doing in order to catch more fish.

Next time I'll get into some more techniques for bluegill that can help you get a few more bites. It's early fall, and fish are biting.

The weather will gradually become more pleasant, and there's less competition. And when the colors come out, it's really special.

Here in Owen County, we love our pitch-ins, family dinners and sweet treats (who can say no to dessert?). But sometimes our health needs a little extra TLC, and diabetes is one of those things we can't ignore. The good news? Taking charge of your health doesn't mean giving up flavor or fun. In fact, with a few smart swaps and fresh ideas, living healthier can be just as tasty as that homemade pie at the church social.

What exactly is diabetes?

Think of your body like a car engine. Food is fuel, and insulin is the key that helps the fuel power the engine. For people with diabetes, the "key" doesn't always work the way it should. Sometimes the body doesn't make enough insulin, and sometimes it doesn't use it properly. That leaves too much sugar in the blood, which, over time, can wear down the body like bad gas in a car.

There are two main types:

Type 1 diabetes: the body doesn't produce insulin at all.

Type 2 diabetes: the body makes insulin but doesn't use it effectively

The good news? While there's no cure, diabetes can be managed with healthy meals, exercise and lifestyle choices. And that's where we, as a community, can make a difference.

Why it matters here in Owen County

Here at home, the numbers tell us we've got some work to do. Owen County reports higher-than-average rates of obesity and physical inactivity, which feed directly into diabetes risks. Add in barriers like limited access to healthy food and fewer exercise options, and it's clear why this health issue needs attention.

But statistics don't tell the whole story. Behind every number is a neighbor, a friend or a family member trying to live well with diabetes.

Enter: Purdue Extension

The good news is, we don't have to tackle this alone. Purdue Extension is here to help. Through programs like Dining with Diabetes, families can learn how to shop smarter, cook healthier and still enjoy food that tastes amazing.

It's not about giving up your favorites — it's about reimagining them in a way that supports health and keeps meals fun.

Yes, dessert is still on the table

One of the biggest myths about diabetes? No dessert. Thankfully, that's not true! With a little creativity, sweets can still be part of the plan. Here are a few tasty ideas:

Strawberry-Chocolate Greek Yogurt Bark
Creamy yogurt, fresh strawberries and dark chocolate chips — frozen and broken into bark for a sweet, crunchy snack.

Apple-Oat Crumble
Warm apples with a cinnamon-oat topping that delivers cozy comfort without the sugar overload.

Peanut Butter Banana "Ice Cream"
Frozen bananas blended with a spoonful of peanut butter = smooth, creamy and surprisingly indulgent.

Berry Parfaits
Fresh berries layered with vanilla Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of nuts. Pretty to look at, fun to eat!

Pumpkin Spice Muffins
Whole-wheat flour + pumpkin puree + warm spices = a treat that feels decadent but is packed with nutrition.

The takeaway

Diabetes may be a serious health concern in Owen County, but small steps can make a big difference. With the support of Purdue Extension's programs and a few creative kitchen swaps, living well with diabetes doesn't mean saying goodbye to flavor — it just means discovering new ways to enjoy it.

Because sometimes, the sweetest solutions come from working together.

Want to learn more about Dining with Diabetes? Call the Purdue Extension-Owen County office at 812-829-5020. Looking to bring a program to your group? From food and health to family and finance, I've got you covered! Shoot me an email at lowder0@purdue.edu and let's make it happen.

And don't forget — you can always spot my upcoming programs on our Facebook page, or our website extension.purdue.edu/county/owen/hhshome.html.

Owen County 4-H is excited to announce the launch of two engaging youth programs designed to spark creativity, curiosity and hands-on learning for local students.

Beginning this October, both regular 4-H members and Mini 4-H participants will have the opportunity to take part in monthly activities that blend education with fun.

The first program, Minds in Motion, is open to all current Owen County 4-H members in grades three through 12. This dynamic initiative will meet on the second Monday of each month from October through May, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in the Purdue Extension-Owen County office meeting room.

Minds in Motion is designed to get young minds moving through a variety of STEM-based activities. Participants will explore topics like robotics, chemistry, engineering and biology in a hands-on, interactive environment. Planned activities include building LEGO robots, experimenting with junk drawer robotics, fluid power robotics, extracting DNA from fruit, making slime and oobleck, creating electric circuit boards and much more.

This program is all about encouraging curiosity and problem-solving in a fun and supportive setting. We want our 4-H members to explore how things work, ask questions and get excited about learning.

The second program, Mess Makers, is a returning favorite for Mini 4-H members in grades kindergarten through second. After a successful run last year, Mess Makers is back—and better than ever—with more meetings and even more messy fun! This year, the program will meet on the fourth Monday of each month, also in the Purdue Extension-Owen County office meeting room, from 4 to 5 p.m.

Mess Makers is designed to let Mini 4-H members explore their creative and messy sides through playful, hands-on activities. From crafting and experimenting to sensory play and simple science projects, each session will offer a new opportunity for discovery and fun.

Our Mini 4-H program is all about letting kids be kids. We want them to explore, create and enjoy the process of learning through play.

Both programs are free to current Owen County 4-H and Mini 4-H members. Families interested in participating are encouraged to ensure their children are enrolled in 4-H for the 2025–2026 program year. Event registration is available on 4-H Online after the program enrollment process is complete. Enrollment information and assistance are available through the Purdue Extension-Owen County office.

With these exciting offerings, Owen County 4-H continues its mission to provide meaningful, educational experiences that help youth grow into confident, capable and curious individuals.

For more information or to enroll, contact the Purdue Extension-Owen County office at 812-829-5020 or visit us at 180 S. Washington St., Spencer.

When I was a child, I used to sit and watch my mother wash the laundry in her Maytag wringer washer. The washer came with two tubs used for rinsing. My mother took the clothes out the water from the clothes. Even though there were other brands available, my mother was a Maytag woman.

Maytag washers typically lasted for about 10 years. They were known for their durability. They first started making them in 1907 and stopped making them in 1983.

It was common to find one of these washers in every household. Ours was in our kitchen, back in the corner. We had a pretty big kitchen area back then. In the farmhouse kitchen, which pretty much had room for everything.

My mother stayed home with me until I started school. Mondays were wash days at our house. After the clothes were washed, they were carefully hung out on a clothesline to dry. So, every week I watched my mother wash the clothes in the wringer washer. Usually, she had to hook a hose up to the kitchen faucet to fill up the washer. Then she would dug it in and start it up. I will put the clothes. The clothes sloshed back and forth inside the tub for an appropriate period of time, until my mother thought they were clean. Then she would drain the water from the washer back into the sink and then began to put the clothes through the wringers.

Our washer was an electric one and so the wringers worked by electricity. There was a lever to turn them on. There was also a release bar that you could push if the clothes got stuck in the wringers or if a hand happened to get stuck in the wringers. My mother had never had her wringers, but she knew of many times about not getting my hands near the wringers.

One day, our phone rang, and my mother had had to go answer it. She paused what she was doing and went across and wringers and went to take the call. She left me in the kitchen by myself. I could hear her talking in the other room. I looked into the washer and saw that there was still some laundry that needed to be wrung out. I thought I would help my wringers. I decided to surprise my mother and help finish some of the clothes. So, I hit the button that started the wringers, picked up a shirt, and began to hold it through as I had watched my mother do countless times. Only it didn't quite wring the shirt. My fingers somehow got in the way and began to go through the wringers.

I started to scream and cry and tried to pull my fingers out of the death grip that the washer had on me. But they were held fast and I couldn't get my fingers out. I pulled the worse I got, I continued to scream until suddenly I heard my mother running towards me. She pushed the release button that stopped the wringer, and then she pushed the release bar, and then the wringers with it opened up. I was able to pull my fingers out. I had my mother put my hand under cold water to ease the pain. she checked out my hand and applied an ice pack, the lecture began. I thought to myself that having my hand stuck in the wringer was punishment enough!

When my mother, a lecture always began by her telling me, "I've told you a dozen times...". I think the lecture was a way of her to take care of herself and the that I would try to do a load of laundry in it. That old childhood trauma of having my finger stuck in that thing some back in an instant. But Stix on a that moment. But I was very careful, and I'm proud to say I got every piece of laundry wrung out without incident.

Nostalgia can be painful if I listen to this day, every time I see a Maytag washer, I think about those days, I sure miss that old Maytag.

And I miss the days of sitting at my mother's feet while she did the laundry. I don't miss those wringers at all. They say that facing childhood fears is a good thing.

Maybe so. But I think not getting your fingers stuck in an old Maytag washer is a much better thing. Yep! Those Maytags really were the best!

—Susan

One of the programs the Owen County Public Library is proud to offer the community is the Lifelong Learning Center; our adult education program.

The center provides a welcoming environment where adult learners can expand their knowledge, develop new skills and pursue their educational and personal goals with confidence. We offer a wide variety of courses designed to meet different interests and needs. Whether you're looking to gain new job skills, explore creative maker projects, earn a career certification or complete your high school equivalency diploma, chances are we have a class for you, or are at little to no cost.

We are best known for our High School Equivalency (HSE) program, often referred to as the GED. To better serve our students, we proudly offer these classes twice a week. We fit a variety of schedules. Last year alone, 21 students successfully graduated from the program. Since 2010, the center has celebrated more than 380 HSE graduates, and we look forward to watching that number continue to grow in the years ahead.

In addition to GED classes, we offer a variety of industry-recognized certification courses for those looking to strengthen or expand their skills. Currently, our programs include certification in Microsoft Excel and QuickBooks. This year, we are excited to expand our offerings with three new options; CompTIA A+, Salesforce and HVAC.

If you're looking for a more creative outlet, our maker classes may be just what you need. We offer everything from 3D printing, laser engraving, 3D printing and digital design with Cricut. These classes not only spark creativity but also give you the opportunity to explore and master some of today's most exciting creative technologies.

The Lifelong Learning Center is more than just a place to take classes—it's a community where adult learners are encouraged, supported and empowered to achieve their goals. With programs that span academic achievement, career development and creative exploration, the center provides opportunities for growth in every area of life. No matter your interest or experience level, the Lifelong Learning Center is here to help you learn, create and succeed—often at little to no cost.

We invite everyone in the community to take the next step in their learning journey with us.

To enroll in one of our courses, students must be at least 16 years old and no longer enrolled in school. To learn more about our programs, email our Adult Education Coordinator, Jamie, at jamieh@owenlib.org, or call 812-829-3392 ext. 212.

After a distinguished career spanning several decades and multiple counties across Indiana, Jim Luzar has retired from his role as the Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) Educator with Purdue Extension-Owen County. His retirement marks the conclusion of a remarkable journey dedicated to agricultural education, natural resource stewardship and community service.

Luzar's work with Purdue Extension began long before his time in Owen County. Over the years, he served in various counties throughout Indiana, building a reputation as a knowledgeable, approachable and deeply committed educator. His expertise in crop production, soil health, forestry and wildlife management made him a trusted resource for farmers, landowners and residents across the state.

In Owen County, Luzar became a cornerstone of the local Extension office, offering practical solutions and educational opportunities that help local farmers and landowners improve their operations and strengthen the community. His ability to connect with people and provide meaningful guidance has left a lasting impact that will be felt for years to come.

"Jim has been a pillar of Purdue Extension and a tremendous asset to Owen County," said Cassie Linville, County Extension Director. "His retirement is well-earned, and while we will miss his presence, we celebrate the legacy he leaves behind."

Though Luzar is stepping away from his official duties, the Purdue Extension-Owen County office remains fully committed to providing the services and support associated with the ANR educator position. Residents are encouraged to continue reaching out with questions or concerns related to agriculture and natural resources.

"We want to assure everyone that ANR support is still available," Linville emphasized. "If you call or visit our office, we will connect you with another ANR educator who can assist you. Our commitment to serving Owen County remains as strong as ever."

Jim Luzar's retirement is not just a farewell—it's a celebration of a career that helped shape Indiana's agricultural landscape. His contributions have empowered countless individuals to make informed decisions about their land, their livelihoods and their communities. His work has left a lasting legacy, and his influence will continue through the ongoing efforts of Purdue Extension educators across the state.

For more information or to access ANR services, contact the Purdue Extension-Owen County office at 812-829-5020 or visit the office at 180 S. Washington St. in Spencer.

The Owen County Courthouse square will soon come alive with the familiar sights and sounds of the annual Apple Butter Festival, returning for a 48th year Sept. 20 to 21.

Presented by the Spencer Lions Club, this year's event will again be chock-full of family fun, featuring royalty and apple butter contests, a parade, fun zone, classic car cruise-in, antique tractors and much more. Over 100 vendors selling homemade, handmade or store-bought treasures and food will help bring the festival to life.

The fan-favorite festival parade will step off at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 20, featuring this year's grand marshal, well-known area radio personality Tony Kale.

Kale has spent 38 years gracing the local radio airwaves, and the last 37 of those have included doing play-by-play for Owen Valley and other area high school sports. He was the 2009 Marv Bates Award winner from the ISSA and is approaching nearly 1,400 career games called, including six state championship appearances. Kale also handles numerous Edgewood broadcasts and hosts a popular morning show on WCLS 97.7.

Kale was among those inducted into the Indiana Sports Writers and Sportscasters Association Hall of Fame for 2025 during a ceremony held earlier this year at the Valle Vista Country Club in Greenwood.

A demolition derby will be held at the Owen County Fairgrounds on Saturday beginning at 7 p.m.

For more Apple Butter Festival information, visit The Apple Butter Festival on Facebook or the website theapplebutterfestival.com.

This morning while dusting one of the many bookcases that clutter my home, I discovered a tiny book of wisdom.

"A Year of Good Cheer" was created by Delia Lyman Porter and published in 1906. The book is a collection of quotes from famous and not so famous writers and philosophers.

It begins with a quote from Emerson: "Write on your hearts that every day is the best day of the year." The book devotes a page to every week of the year filled with wisdom and advice on how to live a good life. The book includes writings from Robert Louis Stevenson, Emerson, Wordsworth, Helen Keller, Goethe and many people I have never heard of. One such individual is Carl Hilty. I am going to do some research on him. Ms. Porter quotes him often.

The page for the last week of August gives the following advice from Mr. Hilty: "The best way to have permanent peace with the world is not to expect much of it; not to be afraid of it; see the good in it; and to regard the evil as something powerless and temporary which will soon defeat itself." These words that were written over a century ago are meaningful today. For me they bring some comfort, a connection to those who survived dark times in the past. I hope, dear readers, they have a positive effect on you.

Here is another quote from the book. These words are from Ralph Waldo Emerson: "But in the mud and scum of things, there alway, alway something sings." I so want to put an 's' on the end of those always, but Emerson didn't. I dare not edit his work. Now on to those things that sing.

We are about to enter the most glorious time of the year – autumn. The natural world is already showing signs of the coming glory. The heat has forced some trees to drop leaves. Others appear to have faded from the vibrant green of summer. The few small sunflowers I managed to coax to life have gone to seed. Purple ironweed blooms wave in the breeze along the country roads. The pink surprise lilies bloomed on cue a couple of weeks ago. The bare stalks remain in some gardens. Silent testimony to the fleeting beauty of these lilies.

The hummingbirds have been busy lately. Their survival depends on their ability to fly thousands of miles to their winter home. Part of their journey is across the Gulf of Mexico. They empty the feeder daily putting on a layer of fat. The male that entertained me last year is back. He sits on the nearby shepherd's hook and declares ownership of the feeder. The sunshine glints off the tiny feathers on his head. The patch of red beneath his bill glows like a precious ruby. He permits some fellow hummingbirds to dine; others he chases away with a fierce flight. I would not want him to dive bomb my head. I have always suspected that the birds he allows to visit the feeder are his mate and young ones. They will all leave soon. I will await their return with much anticipation.

'til next time,
Annie

The MYPath trail is bringing economic, social and health benefits to Owen County, and the more the trail expands, the greater those benefits will be. That was the finding of an intensive study by Indiana University O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs graduate students and the IU Center for Rural Engagement.

The final study was entitled MYPath, Our Community: The Future of Trail Systems in Owen County, Indiana. The report was shared at an Aug. 8 community meeting at McCormick's Creek State Park.

Based on the impact of similar trails around the state and country, local users of MYPath spend between $7.21 and $11.33 per daily trail visit. Non-local users spend between $13 and $70.50 per day trip. Overnight visitors spend between $98 and $176.98. By expanding the trail, the economic impact will increase because more people will be attracted to MYPath for both day use and overnight visits.

In addition, the study determined that trails like MYPath increase property values and attract both business and residential development. Social and health benefits have also been recorded with similar trails. Long-term discussions to connect MYPath to McCormick's Creek State Park, and then to Ellettsville and Monroe County trails would increase all these benefits as even more, as more people use the trails.

The study also outlined considerations for trail expansion. They recommended the creation of a Trail Expansion Advisory Group of local stakeholders to identify routes and funding possibilities.

The third section of the study focused on communication strategies. It encouraged participating in more public events and inviting more people to use the trail. With increased trail use, more stakeholders are created.

The study was created when the Owen County Community Foundation and the Regional Trail Advocates group had asked the Center for Rural Engagement (IUCRE) for assistance in determining the economic impact of MYPath and regional trails and for strategies for trail expansion. Through the IUCRE, 11 O'Neill School graduate students from around the country, completing their IU Masters of Public Affairs degree, spent weeks studying MYPath and surrounding trails. The course culminated in an intensive week visiting MYPath and the community. Their result was shared with community members on Aug. 8 at McCormick's Creek State Park. If anyone would like to see the entire 107-page study, contact mypathspencer@gmail.com

Spencer Town Council members Jon Stantz, Evan McKalip and Mike Spinks met in regular session Aug. 18, along with clerk-treasurer Cheryl Moke, town manager Hunter Stogsdill and town attorney Richard Lorenz.

Following approval of the Aug. 4 meeting minutes, the council approved invoices from Commonwealth Engineers totaling $297.84 for on-call miscellaneous services and $11,000 for preliminary design work for sewer improvements related to the ongoing wastewater improvement project.

Council approval was also given for a Brett Wood Memorial Day event to be held on the courthouse lawn and at Cooper Commons on Sept. 14, sponsored by the Spencer VFW Post #1405.

The council also heard and approved a request to hold an Arts in the Park event at Cooper Commons on Oct. 25. The event will require the closure of park entrances beginning the day prior to the event.

Mike Wilson with Mainstream Fiber Networks was in attendance to further discuss the possibility of bringing fiber internet service to the town of Spencer. Wilson oversees governmental affairs for the company, which works to bring fiber service to unserved and underserved areas. The town's commitment would be $250,000 to be paid over five years.

Two local business representatives were in attendance to explain how current internet service negatively impacts their business. Both noted how they currently utilize internet-based payment services to aid customers. Both have experienced occasions when the internet has gone offline and they have been unable to finalize transactions or have had to switch to cash-only purchases.

The council also shared concerns they have heard from other parties in town and how there does not appear to be a plan for future upgrades to existing internet infrastructure in town.

Regarding cost, Wilson said the average price for 150 megabits per second (mbps) symmetrical signal service is estimated at $35 per month and stand-alone gigabit service $90 per month. It was stated that 150 mbps service is already faster than the current internet speed serving many homes in Spencer.

Stantz made a motion for the Town to enter into a contract with Mainstream for $250,000, which would be paid utilizing $50,000 per year out of Economic Development Income Tax (EDIT) funds available in the town's budget. The motion was approved, 3-0.

"This will affect people, 20, 30, 40 years down the road, we hope in a positive way," Stantz said. "We are spending taxpayers' dollars; we want to make sure we are doing it right."

McKalip added, "I've talked to a lot of people, and people are very excited and positive. I didn't hear one person say no, don't spend taxpayer money on this. No, they all said do it."

Next, the council heard from the festival safety coordinator of this year's upcoming Spencer Pride Festival concerning coordination with the local railroad during the festival. It was noted that during coordination with the Indiana Rail Road (INRD) the railroad suggested they contact Operation Lifesaver, a national organization that provides education and training. It was discussed that the council would assist with reaching out to Operation Lifesaver to assist in coordinating training for local partners, first responders, etc.

Spencer Pride is working on its contract for the Pride Festival with the INRD and will provide the Town with the preliminary contract with the railroad, along with the final documents when available.

Marce Johnson, CEO of the Owen County Chamber of Commerce, later reported on the Riverfront Commons project. She explained that the arts commission has pursued funding and received a portion of the design dollars for an amphitheater in Cooper Commons. Design is now finalized, and public hearings have been held.

Moving forward, plans call for the full proposal for grant funds to be submitted in October 2025. Johnson is working to make sure the proposal matches the most recent priorities and goals for funds.

Johnson requested the Town's assistance with covering the final $8,500 match for project design. Any funds the Town spends on design and current construction projects underway will count toward the 20 percent match required for the construction phase for the amphitheater.

McKalip made a motion to approve the $8,500 request, but the Town tabled the request until the council's next meeting to allow time to explore which fund could best be utilized.

Next the council heard from Stogsdill whose update included efforts to add items to the town's strategic plan for the years 2029 and 2030. He also noted the Town has met with FEMA to discuss the costs incurred during the most recent flood. Stogsdill said FEMA is going to work with the Town to try and get reimbursed for 75 percent of all costs incurred from the flood.

In departmental reports, the Spencer Police Department (SPD) provided updates on personnel and equipment, along with information concerning 37 cats housed on a South Main Street property. While the cats have now been spayed and neutered, they still need to be rehomed with assistance from the SPD.

Sewer department superintendent Ryan Klaassen later provided the board with an update, noting the department planned to televise the sewer main going toward the effluent outfall at the river. The quote from Fluid Waste Services was approved for this service totaling $6,260.

Klaassen also noted that on West Hillside Avenue, west of Pine Hill Road, a sewer main was jetted due to complaints and he would be obtaining quotes to fix this portion of sewer and to install a manhole.

Street department superintendent Tony Floyd noted that a new backhoe would soon be delivered. He also presented a quote for disaster services from Chip's Outdoor Services. In the event of a storm, this contract would ensure the Town has services needed for maintenance and cleanup. Stantz made a motion to approve the contract, which received unanimous council approval.

In other business, Spinks proposed the Town dispose of the former Riddle Tractor Sales property and utilizing those funds to aid with other projects. The Town will discuss this proposal further at a future meeting.

The Spencer Town Council will meet again at 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 15 in the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St.

The Owen County Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for their annual banquet.

This year's event is celebrating the Chamber's 100th birthday.

The annual banquet will take place on Sept. 30 at the Christian Life Center, located at 157 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and dinner and program is scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m.

The chamber will also honor awards in the following categories: Small Business of the Year, Heart of the Community, Educator of the Year, Business of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year and Nonprofit of the Year.

Ridgeline Veterinary Services and Harriman Farms are the nominees for Small Business of the Year.

For Business of the Year, West & Parrish & Pedigo Funeral Home and Henry Holster's were both nominated.

JH Landscaping, A: Angels Announg Us and Sweet Escape Baking Studio LLC were all nominated for Entrepreneur of the Year.

The Nominees for Nonprofit of the Year are Graycoach's Ranch, Owen County Boys & Girls Club and the Historic Tivoli Theater.

Cathay Woodruff and Matthew Latta were nominated for Educator of the Year.

There are three nominees for the Heart of the Community award: Janet Rummel, Tom Wallace and Dawn LaGrange.

Tickets can be purchased on the Owen County Chamber of Commerce website.

The MYPath 5k run/walk is returning for a second year Saturday, Oct. 18, at 8:30 a.m.

The course begins and ends at the Owen County Fairgrounds, 364 S. East St., in Spencer.

The course uses both paved and natural surface trails as it winds around the fairgrounds, through Cooper Commons, and along the MYPath Riverfront Trail. It is considered a "fast course" because it is mostly level.

Registration is $25 plus a sign-up fee and includes a T-shirt. There will be prizes for the fastest times. After Oct. 16, registration increases to $30.

To register, visit runsignup.com and search for MYPath 5k. Direct questions to mypathspencer@gmail.com.

Proceeds from the event are used by the Friends of MYPath, Inc. for development and maintenance of the trail.

Code/IT Academy is now accepting applications for its fall 2025 session.

This free, fast-track training program prepares Hoosiers for high-demand careers in technology, offering certification-based courses, career support and direct connections to employers.

Fall offerings include CompTIA Fundamentals.

Classes begin Oct. 7 and run through Dec. 9 in a hybrid format, combining online learning with in-person support. Applications are open now through Sept. 27 at codeitacademy.org. The class will be held twice per week at the Owen County Community Foundation located at 60 E. Market St., Spencer.

"This program is a launching pad for people looking to pivot into tech or level up their careers," said Haley Pritchett, Program Manager at Code/IT Academy. "Our pathways are designed to quickly build the skills employers want and connect students to real opportunities in the local job market."

Code/IT Academy is a partnership between The Mill, Ivy Tech Bloomington and the City of Bloomington, with funding from the ARCC Recover Forward initiative. The program is open to all Owen County residents and surrounding counties and is completely free to participants.

In addition to technical training, students receive career coaching, mentorship, job placement assistance and wraparound support to help them succeed. No previous experience in tech is required—just a commitment to learning and apply at codeacademy.org.

About Ivy Tech

Ivy Tech Community College is home to over 70 programs. We offer a wide variety of not only Academic Programs, but also a large number of certificate programs and options are available. Which one is right for you? Visit us at the link below or call 812-883-6989. ivytech.edu/locations/sellersburg/

About The Mill

The Mill is the heart of southern Indiana's startup ecosystem and its largest coworking space. A 501(c)3 nonprofit, its mission is to spark Bloomington's innovation economy by launching and accelerating startups, and its vision is to become Indiana's center of gravity for entrepreneurship. For more information, visit dimensionmill.org.

About Regional Opportunity Initiatives

Regional Opportunity Initiatives (ROI) is a nonprofit organization with a mission to advance economic and community prosperity in the 11 counties of the Indiana Uplands (Brown, Crawford, Daviess, Dubois, Greene, Lawrence, Martin, Monroe, Orange, Owen and Washington counties). ROI is growing potential and possibility through a focus on equalized industry sectors: regionalism, transformative school and workforce redesign, and placemaking strategies. To learn more about ROI's programs, visit regionalopportunityinc.org.

About the Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) in the Indiana Uplands

In May 2021, Indiana Gov. Eric J. Holcomb and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) launched the Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI), a transformational initiative with $500 million in state appropriations to promote strategic investments to make Indiana a magnet for talent and economic growth.

Through READI, regions worked collaboratively to create visions for the future, with programs, initiatives and projects aligned to sustaining quality and attracting the workforce of tomorrow. In the Uplands region, this effort, led by Radius Radius Indiana, included participation from hundreds of stakeholders and organizations and leadership from a steering committee representing 17 members representing regional anchor institutions and organizations.

In December 2021, the Indiana Uplands was awarded $30 million in READI funding for our Region on the Rise." Regions are required to provide a 4:1 match in support of projects and programs. This includes a required 1:1 match in local public funding and a recommended 3:1 match from private and philanthropic sources.

For more information on the announcement on Indiana Uplands READI projects, please visit regionalopportunityinc.org/readi-projects/.

'A reason to turn at the light'

At the start of the Spencer Main Street annual membership banquet, President Julie Coffin took the audience on a trip.

That trip, while being descriptive while folks attentively listened during Coffin's opening remarks, was along State Road 46 from Bloomington to Spencer.

"You're moving in a generally westerly direction. You just left a populated area, and you're starting to enjoy the rolling countryside, and you're getting the town. And you hit the first stop light, and you think, 'Wow, that town must have a bang up Garden Club, because look at that...'" Coffin began before being interrupted with applause.

She continued.

"So then the light turns green, and we move on, and we get to the second stoplight. And it's red, of course, and you're sitting there thinking, 'Well, there's nothing particularly scenic there, right?' So you wait there, and the light turns green," Coffin continued.

"And because I'm an optimist, I say the third light is green, so you roll on through. You say, 'Oh, look, this town has a Walmart, just like every place else does.' And you're done with this little town."

Coffin wanted to paint a different vision of Spencer.

"But wait, what if it could be different? Let's rewind. Go back to the first stoplight. Admire the garden again, ooh ahhh great garden, right? As you begin to approach the second stoplight, you look down at the table in front of you, and you turn over your placemats, and you see the most fantastic entryway arch you've ever seen," she said, as folks unveiled the photo of the arch as their placemat.

In this version, folks leave Morgan Street, have a bench to sit on to enjoy the most fantastic hanging baskets.

"Your turn signal is on, and you're thinking, 'It's a good thing that that arch is there so that I knew to turn at the light. So once you turn, you find this charming historic downtown area. It meets every single one of your needs. You can eat at any time of the day. You have multiple absolutely one-of-a-kind shopping sequences. You have a historical theater for entertainment. You have a music restroom, and you have a bench to sit on to enjoy the most fantastic hanging baskets."

Coffin then painted a vision for the future.

"Wouldn't that be great if everybody who was driving on Morgan Street knew that there was a reason to turn at the light?" Coffin asked.

She then said they have been working with the town and noted to get a design and that they are working on finding a way to fund the archway to the downtown.

Punctuality and consistent school attendance are more than just routines, they're the foundation of lifelong learning, strong social connections and future success.

At Spencer-Owen Community Schools, teachers, staff and administrators understand that when students arrive on time and attend regularly, they are better positioned to thrive personally, academically and socially.

When students are in class every day and on time, they stay connected with lessons, maintain academic continuity and avoid falling behind. Missing even a single day can disrupt learning; frequent absences can erode engagement and weaken the habits and skills that lead to long-term achievement.

Research shows that chronic absenteeism (missing 10 percent or more of the school year or roughly 18 days) is a major early warning sign. Children who are chronically absent in kindergarten or first-grade are significantly more likely to struggle with reading and other core skills, putting them at risk for lasting academic setbacks. When students fall behind early, they are more likely to disengage, and in high school, poor attendance strongly correlates with a higher dropout rate.

Indiana has clear laws designed to keep students in the classroom and support families along the way:

If a student misses five or more unexcused days within a 10-week period, schools must notify parents and develop an attendance plan, which may include wrap-around services, counseling, mentoring or academic support.

Students who accumulate 10 or more unexcused absences in a school year are considered habitually truant, and schools must report the matter to the local prosecuting attorney. However, prosecutors are not compelled to file charges, and they may offer supportive interventions instead.

More broadly, students who miss 10 percent or more of instructional time (chronic absenteeism) now have a standardized measurement across Indiana, and schools are encouraged to monitor attendance monthly and intervene early, even before truancy thresholds are met.

Spencer-Owen is committed to working with families to make attendance a positive, achievable priority. If your student begins to miss multiple days (even excused absences), our teachers and administrators stand ready to help with strategies like mentors, outreach, attendance plans or connecting you with helpful services.

To minimize disruptions and ensure your child gets the most learning time:

Whenever possible, schedule doctor's and dentist's appointments after school or, if needed during the day, late in the afternoon.

Establish a consistent morning routine, ensuring children are ready and at school on time.

Communicate proactively with school staff if appointments, travel, or family needs might affect attendance.

Every day of school is an opportunity for connection, growth, learning and building the habits that shape futures. At Spencer-Owen Community Schools, we believe every student can thrive with reliable attendance and punctuality, and we're here to partner with your family every step of the way.

The Cloverdale Community School Corporation (CCSC) Board of School Trustees heard a budget presentation Aug. 11 for the 2025-2026 budget, presented by CCSC Superintendent Greg Linton during the board's regular monthly meeting.

"Education, Operation, Debt Service, Pension Bond and Rainy Day are the five funds that we have at Cloverdale Community Schools that we submit to the Department of Local Government Finance (DLGF) for budget approval," Linton explained.

Average daily membership, Linton noted, is what drives the Education portion of the corporation's budget.

"All of the other funds that are listed – if they have revenue going into them – are tax-driven," he said. "Debt, Pension and Operation are the three funds that are tax-driven. The Education fund is driven primarily by attendance and the foundation formula that the state uses to send money to us."

Linton highlighted the fact that CCSC's student enrollment only declined six students between the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 school years.

"That's not bad for a small rural school district," he said. "Most school districts are losing a higher percentage, so we felt like that was good news for us and our brick-and-mortar school attendance. What was even better for our budget is when you look at Cloverdale Distance Learning Academy, in January 2020 we started with 179 kids, and we ended last year with 2,150 kids. These students are enrolled from across the state of Indiana, and for those students we receive 85-percent funding of the foundation amount of what we receive for our brick-and-mortar kids."

The Education fund, Linton said, is the corporation's largest fund and drives a lot of its financial decisions.

"We've been steadily since 2020 building our cash balance in this (Education) fund," Linton said. "Last year was a good year, and we increased the cash balance in this fund by almost 1.8 million dollars. Some of the assumptions that are used when we build the budget are that efforts will be made to maintain responsible staffing levels for positions that are supported by the Education fund. We budgeted a 10 percent increase for utilities, 15 percent increase for property-casualty insurance and a decline of 12 brick-and-mortar students for this school year. The budget is based off of Cloverdale Distance Learning Academy not growing; we ended last school year with 2,150 students. I think we'll probably exceed that number considerably, but to keep a conservative budget, we (didn't factor in any growth in the CDLA)."

Linton commented on the impact of circuit breaker funds on the corporation's budget. Circuit breaker funds provide financial assistance to public school districts, helping to offset costs. Additionally, property tax caps, often linked to circuit breaker credits, can lead to revenue losses, affecting overall school funding.

"Our Circuit Breaker impact went up substantially, but it's still not very high compared to a lot of neighboring schools who are at $700,000 and $800,000," Linton explained. "Our tax cap is at $177,000, which went up from $72,000 last year, which is still a very manageable number."

Regarding the tax levy, Linton explained, "Our tax levy history has dropped every year since about 2019, and one of the primary indicators for that rate going down is the Owen County and Putnam County assessed value has gone up substantially over the last couple of years. This past year we dropped below $1 to $0.95."

The corporation's Education fund budget is based on 18 months, the last half of 2025 and all of 2026.

"You can see that we are projecting revenue of a little over 40 million dollars," Linton said. "In 2014 it was 14 million dollars, so you can see that things have changed a lot in the last few years at Cloverdale."

Regarding Debt Service, Linton noted "the local property taxes that we know we've got coming in the remainder of this year and all next year is $860,000. You can see our expenditures (total) 2.4 million dollars – that number is substantially higher than what it will actually be because we have the new facility that we are going to start building so we'll sell bonds later this year. We projected that first payment to be $1.25 million, but it will probably be far under that amount. We just want to make sure we cover our expenses on debt payments to our lenders.

Linton requested the board approve a levy of $1,859,917 with a tax rate of a little over $0.58, which is lower than last year when it was over $0.60. "It will actually come in a little lower," he said, "because they (state) always give you a lower rate than what you are asking."

The corporation's Pension bond includes a zero levy and a zero rate.

"The reason we do that is Indiana code will allow you to use your LIT (local income tax) dollars to be able to pay for that so what we do is we use revenue that we already have coming in so that we don't tack on an additional rate to the taxpayer," Linton said. "It's one way that we can lower the tax rate compared to other districts that don't have LIT coming in."

Regarding the corporation's Operations fund, Linton said the corporation's project revenue for the next 18 months will be just under $9 million.

"We're projecting almost 15 million dollars in expenses, which again is most likely much higher than what we will probably spend," he said. "We're requesting a levy in 2026 for $6,494,710.00 with a rate of just a little over $2. Because the Education fund is carrying such a good cash balance, we are able to transfer some of those dollars, up to 15 percent of the revenue that goes into our Education Fund to the Operations fund each year. A month or so ago, we did an additional appropriation for the Education fund in the amount of 2.8 million dollars. Because our Education fund is doing well, it allowed us to transfer into our Operations fund. That 2.8 million dollars will count as an additional expense in the second half of this year so that's one reason the expenditures are at least 2.8 million dollars more than we'll actually spend. I don't anticipate our Operations fund being any higher than it's ever been, but because of that additional appropriation, it will kind of skew our number for the second half of this year."

In summary, Linton told the board, "If you look at our advertised versus our actual rate since 2017, you can see that what we've advertised is always substantially higher, but within reason to what we actually get and 2026 will be no different."

The board approved advertising the budget as presented by Linton. Members of the public also had an opportunity to make comments and discuss their concerns at a public hearing held Aug. 25. The board is expected to move to adopt the 2026 budget at its next regularly scheduled meeting on Sept. 9.

In addition, the board approved the following professional leave, field trip and facility use requests:

Professional leaves
Aug. 13 – Heather Clingan, Indiana State Fair Experience Day, Indianapolis.
Aug. 20 – Ivy Oberkrom, ONT new IIEP system training, ONT.
Aug. 25 – Heather Clingan, MI-BAT mentor training, Hendricks County Fairgrounds.

Field trips
Aug. 13 – FFA, Indiana State Fair, Indianapolis.
Sept. 6 – Emerald Command Marching Band, Brownsburg High School.
Sept. 20 – Emerald Command Marching Band, Greenwood High School.
Sept. 20 – Horticulture Team, Purdue University.
Oct. 4 – Emerald Command Marching Band, Southport High School.

Facility use
July 31 to Aug. 1 – CHS gymnasium, auxiliary gymnasium and café; volleyball team bonding, practice, and lock-in.
Aug. 9 to Sept. 6 – Football field and concession; Cloverdale Community Youth League (CCYL), youth league games, football and cheer.
Aug. 18 – CMS Media Center, CMS PTO; fall meeting.
Sept. 16 – CHS gymnasium, auxiliary gymnasium and café; FFA, District VII Kick-Off.

Additional personnel matters receiving unanimous board approval included:

Resignations
Hannah Beaman – CES instructional aide.

Employment
Courtney Lary – CES medical instructional aide
Kirsten Vaughn – Knoy part-time sub.
Kayla Parrish – Bus driver, full-time.
Rhonda Trueblood – CMS café, part-time.
Patricia Sipes – Café long-term sub.

FMLA
Sara Zaring – deputy treasurer.

Coaching volunteer
Payton Asbury – CHS wrestling coach.

The Cloverdale Community School Board will meet again at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 9 in the Arthur L. Johnson Administration Building, 310 E. Logan St., Cloverdale. Members of the board include Vivian Whitaker, Katrina Lewis, Donna Fidler, Melissa Carrell, Emily Haltom, Joe Mann and Mike Rightmyer II.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Booking information is provided by the Owen County Security Center. These are preliminary charges and may change as cases are processed through the circuit court system. To follow a court case, search the state's court records at mycase.in.gov. This information is public record. All people are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

7-31

Jason Tinsley, 40, Paragon, preliminary charges of possession of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of a syringe, resisting law enforcement, possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia, and pretrial release violation. Arrested by Owen County Sheriff's Department (OCSD) Special Deputy Levi Miller.

Alvin Shields, 81, Spencer, preliminary charge of battery. Spencer Police Department (SPD) officer Ryan Combs was the arresting officer.

John Carpenter, 43, Spencer, preliminary charges of possession of methamphetamine (two counts), possession of a firearm by a serious felon, and possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Stephen DeWitt II.

8-1

James Blankenship, 40, Poland, IN, preliminary charges of reckless driving, possession of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of a syringe, possession of a controlled substance, resisting law enforcement, and unlawful carrying of a handgun. OCSD Deputy Jordan Hardey was the arresting officer.

Samantha Mayhew, 32, Poland, IN, preliminary charges of battery and theft. Arrested by OCSD Sergeant Torrey Wallace.

8-5

Ernest Hunter, 25, Gosport, preliminary charges of criminal mischief and theft. OCSD Major William Snodgrass was the arresting officer.

Nicole White, 43, Mitchell, IN, preliminary charges of unlawful possession of a syringe, possession of methamphetamine, neglect of a dependent; child selling, maintaining a common nuisance, dealing in methamphetamine, and probation violation. Arrested by Bryce Brock.

RA Khai, 48, Indianapolis, preliminary charges of leaving the scene of an accident, operating with a blood alcohol content of .08 to .14, and failure to appear. SPD officer Bryce Brock was the arresting officer.

8-6

Molly Harvey, 45, Poland, IN, preliminary charges of failure to appear and public intoxication. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Riley Pardue.

Brant Lawson, 25, Poland, IN, preliminary charges of burglary and theft. OCSD Deputy Cory Poland was the arresting officer.

Jeremy Devylder, 46, Gosport, preliminary charges of disorderly conduct and domestic battery. Arrested by OCSD Sergeant Torrey Wallace.

8-7

Chris Ruggles, 46, Spencer, preliminary charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of paraphernalia, and operating a vehicle without financial responsibility. OCSD Sergeant Torrey Wallace was the arresting officer.

8-8

Samantha Branam, 37, Cloverdale, preliminary charge of false informing. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Jacob Williamson.

John Todd, 35, Spencer, preliminary charges of disorderly conduct, resisting law enforcement, and intimidation. OCSD Deputy Jordan Hardey was the arresting officer.

Salem Crecelius, 46, Poland, IN, preliminary charge of operating a motor boat while intoxicated. Arrested by Indiana Conservation Officer Kaley McDonald.

8-11

Christian Cummings, 28, Poland, IN, preliminary charge of driving while suspended with a prior charge. SPD officer Ashton Banks was the arresting officer.

8-13

Anne Wood, 67, Sullivan, IN, preliminary charge of operating with a blood alcohol content of .15 or more. Arrested by SPD officer Zachary Brock.

Brent Hobbs, 42, Bloomington, preliminary charges of disorderly conduct, criminal trespass, residential entry, and domestic battery. Brandon Gasparovic was the arresting officer.

Tarin Medley, 39, Indianapolis, preliminary charges of driving while suspended with a prior charge, failure to appear, and theft. Arrested by OCSD Sergeant Brandon Gasparovic.

Brian Merriman, 30, Freedom, preliminary charge of theft. OCSD Deputy Jordan Hardey was the arresting officer.

8-15

Travis Bland, 47, Bloomington, preliminary charges of possession of methamphetamine (two counts), possession of paraphernalia, and probation violation. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Jacob Williamson.

Thomas Stewart, 22, Spencer, preliminary charges of criminal recklessness and probation violation. OCSD Deputy Jacob Williamson was the arresting officer.

Austin Holmes, 28, Linton, preliminary charges of reckless driving, resisting law enforcement, and failure to appear. Arrested by OCSD Major William Snodgrass.

8-17

Meredith Enkoff, 37, Spencer, preliminary charge of criminal trespass. SPD officer Seth Givans was the arresting officer.

8-19

Scott Taylor, 45, Shelbyville, preliminary charges of possession of methamphetamine, and probation violation. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Riley Pardue.

Jack Goldman, 45, Bloomington, preliminary charge of domestic battery on a person less than 14 years old. OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller was the arresting officer.

Jossely Martinez, 20, Davie, Florida, preliminary charges of leaving the scene of an accident and driving without a license. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Cory Poland.

8-21

Kyle Jackson, 33, Freedom, preliminary charge of possession or use of legend drug or precursor. Indiana State Police Trooper Robert Martin was the arresting officer.

Shelby Seals, 43, Avon, preliminary charges of theft and criminal mischief. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Riley Pardue.

8-24

Ashley Hodge, 31, Spencer, preliminary charges of operating while intoxicated and auto theft. OCSD Deputy Elijah Volrich was the arresting officer.

Zachary Karch, 29, preliminary charges of operating while intoxicated and neglect of a dependent; child selling. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Brennan Clark.

8-25

Jayden Payne, 23, Gosport, preliminary charge of driving while suspended with a prior charge. SPD officer Bryce Brock was the arresting officer.

8-26

Taylor Mras, 30, Paragon, preliminary charges of possession of paraphernalia, dealing in methamphetamine, pretrial release violation, and possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia. Arrested by OCSD Lieutenant Clint Wampler.

Brandon Allen, 34, Ellettsville, preliminary charge of invasion of privacy. OCSD Deputy Jordan Hardey was the arresting officer.

8-27

Haley Pruitt, 32, Beech Grove, preliminary charges of pretrial release violation failure to appear, possession of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of a syringe, and probation violation failure to appear. Arrested by OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller.

8-31

Nicky Wright, 56, Freedom, preliminary charges of theft; receiving stolen property, use of private land without consent (two counts), harvesting out of season (two counts), and resisting law enforcement. OCSD Deputy Brennan Clark was the arresting officer.

William Allan, Jr., 69, Freedom, preliminary charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of paraphernalia, and possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia. Arrested by Indiana Conservation Officer Caleb Hutchison.

Routine food inspections were conducted by the Owen County Health Department during the month of August 2025. Reported below are the critical and non-critical comments left for these establishments:

8-2

Native Foods, food stand, temporary, at Gathering of the People Powwow. No violations.

A La Cart, drink stand, temporary, at Gathering of the People Powwow. No violations.

Ice Creams LA Michoacana, food truck, temporary, at Gathering of the People Powwow. No violations.

Lake's Food, food stand, temporary, at Gathering of the People Powwow. No violations.

Aura's Lemonade, drink stand, temporary, at Gathering of the People Powwow. No violations.

8-9

Mille McGee's Gosport Diner, 23 E. Main St., Gosport. No violations.

Gosport Tavern, 130 E. Main St., Gosport. No violations.

Weenie Wagon, food truck, temporary, at Gosport Lazy Days Festival. No violations.

The Dog House Concessions, food truck, temporary, at Gosport Lazy Days Festival. No violations.

8-20

Hopper's Hut, food truck, pre-operational inspection. No violations.

8-23

Sparrow's Ice Cream, food truck, temporary event at Tier 10 Music & Sports Park. No violations.

Pizza Inferno, food truck, temporary event at Tier 10 Music & Sports Park. No violations.

Thelma & Louise, food truck, temporary event at Tier 10 Music & Sports Park. No violations.

Gather Around BBQ, food truck, temporary event at Tier 10 Music & Sports Park. No violations.

Fried on Q, food truck, temporary event at Tier 10 Music & Sports Park. No violations.

Outlaw BBQ, food truck, temporary event at Tier 10 Music & Sports Park. No violations.

Mr. Taco, food truck, temporary event at Tier 10 Music & Sports Park. No violations.

The Rolling Stoves, food truck, temporary event at Tier 10 Music & Sports Park. No violations.

With Patricksburg Elementary School (PES) Principal Mike Robison on medical leave, Spencer-Owen Community Schools (S-OCS) Superintendent Andy Cline had a quick turnaround to find an interim principal.

Looking for someone to be the heart of the building, as well as having the qualifications, Cline spoke to consulting groups — who specialize in short-term and interim principal placements — other superintendents and other principals for guidance for the best solution.

As the first day of school marched closer and closer, Cline found a natural fit for the position and the school in Kris Samick.

"The elementary principal, like all principals, should be the 'heart' of the building," Cline said via email. "This should be an individual who can quickly and easily assess the needs and culture of the community they are serving. It should also be someone who is willing to take that information and enact positive change, which will support, challenge and empower our students and staff. [Samick] has done that."

Samick has worked 31 years in the S-OCS system, serving various roles as a teacher at both Spencer Elementary School and PES, and as S-OCS Director of Communications. Now she's adding PES Interim Principal of the 2025-26 school year to her roster.

S-OCS School Board President Derek Morgan shares Cline's sentiments about what a principal should be, adding that the principal should have an understanding of the school and the community.

"[Samick] is very familiar with that school," Morgan said. "Patricksburg being a smaller elementary school that is a close-knit community … I think she fits in really well."

Along with teaching at PES for 17 years, Samick's daughters also attended the school, showing her "first-hand the powerful impact this school community can have on a child's life."

With her combined personal and professional background, Samick feels like she has built a solid foundation that led her to the principal role.

"My path to becoming a principal was built on a foundation of classroom teaching, advanced education and a commitment to taking on leadership roles," Samick said via email. "Early in my career, my years as a classroom teacher provided invaluable experience and a deep understanding of pedagogical best practices, student needs and the challenges educators face daily."

With her first day at, what she lovingly calls, the 'Burg being July 31, she started two days before teachers started and four for students, giving her some time to prepare for the school year.

To start a smooth transition, she started by doing what she's known for, organizing. Beyond cleaning the office and taking inventory of staff, schedules and hiring needs, she focused on one of her main priorities, making sure curriculums were ready and her staff had the necessary training to implement it.

To help assist with Samick's transition and her time in the position, she has the support of the other S-OCS elementary principals, providing a resource to bounce off ideas with, Cline said.

Along with the principals, Cline himself has been a resource for Samick. He meets or calls with her daily, and he plans to continue to do so.

As Samick has been working and settling into her new position, Cline and Samick have created a running joke between them of "whose going home first?"

"I have been calling at 6 to 6:30 each evening before I leave the office, telling her to head home," Cline said via email. "I think she has stopped taking my calls when she sees my name pop up on the phone."

Cline said this shows her level of commitment and dedication to the success of Patricksburg, while she also is continuing her work as the communications director.

Moving from the district office, where Samick focused on the whole corporation, she's shifting her focus to be more singular, focusing on one building.

With this shift, she plans on creating a positive school culture by being visible and approachable to her staff, her students and their parents.

"I believe in positive and consistent communication with everyone who walks through the doors of Patricksburg Elementary," she said via email. "My challenge to myself and the staff is to approach each day with the focus of 'How can I help our students be successful today?' Likewise, when a parent has a question or concern brought to me, I like to start the conversation with 'How can I help you today?' Students, parents and staff must work together to ensure a successful academic year."

On top of her shifting focus, she's also appreciated how generational the school is, teaching the children of students she taught while being a teacher at Patricksburg.

As she settles into her position, starting her days off with her students and teachers with a corny joke over the intercom, she hopes to show students that school can be fun and that they'll enjoy coming to learn.

She wants the Patricksburg community to know she is "100 percent invested in the success of PES," and that she believes it's "important to look for solutions to problems, be understanding of different situations that our students face on a daily basis, and help students realize that education is something to be valued."

The Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act, known as the Dingell-Johnson Act, was passed by Congress in 1950. We're celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, and the more than $12 billion the act has generated for the conservation and restoration of sport fish species and their habitats.

Under the Dingell-Johnson Act, an excise tax is collected on sport fishing equipment including rods, reels, tackle, lures, lines, motorboat fuel and import duties on fishing equipment. The money is deposited into the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, which is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Funds are then distributed to state fish and wildlife agencies through a formula based on each state's land and water area and the number of licensed anglers.

The program requires states to match federal funds with revenue from fishing licenses and other local sources. This structure ensures anglers and boaters, the people who most directly benefit from the resource, are also the primary investors in its management. Oversight provisions in the act strictly prohibit states from diverting the money to other purposes.

The impact of the funding is visible across the country. More than 9,000 public boating and fishing access sites have been built or improved with Dingell-Johnson money. Over 320 state fish hatcheries receive support, producing more than a billion fish annually for stocking in public waters. States use the funds to restore aquatic habitats, conduct biological research and support law enforcement activities related to fisheries. Millions of Americans have participated in aquatic education programs financed through the act, learning the basics of fishing, boating safety, and aquatic ecology.

"We couldn't do our job without Sport Fish Restoration dollars," said Michael Bednarski, Chief of Fisheries for Virginia DWR. "The amount we get is substantial—about $3.5 million a year coming from the excise taxes on fishing tackle and boat fuel. I really believe in it."

Bednarski added some of the greatest, most lasting impacts of Sport Fish Restoration money in Virginia are the 37 public waters such as Lake Robertson that exist around the state. Those fishing waters were purchased via Sport Fish Restoration money.

The 1984 Wallop-Breaux Amendment was a major turning point for the program. By adding excise taxes on motorboat fuel and expanding the base of taxed equipment, the amendment significantly increased revenue. It also broadened the list of eligible projects, allowing states to invest in boating infrastructure and safety initiatives in addition to fisheries restoration.

For anglers, the results have been incredible. Improved fish populations, healthier waters and more public access to lakes and rivers have resulted. In many rural areas, projects funded by Dingell-Johnson dollars have created economic opportunities by drawing visitors and tourism dollars. Providing both an economic return and intrinsic value.

As the 75th anniversary of Dingell-Johnson is celebrated in 2025, federal and state agencies, as well as conservation organizations, have issued releases highlighting its legacy. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service released figures showing the scope of the program: billions of dollars invested, thousands of facilities built and millions of people educated. Leaders of the angling and boating community described the law as a cornerstone of modern conservation policy.

Representative Debbie Dingell, whose late father-in-law John Dingell Sr. co-authored the original legislation, noted the act has provided "critical resources for conservation, restoration, boating safety and education, and fishing access for generations of Americans." Congressional leaders introduced a bipartisan bill in 2025 to reauthorize the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund through 2030, ensuring its continuation into the future.

A statement released by the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation says, "These excise taxes, combined with fishing and hunting license revenues, constitute the American System of Conservation Funding, a model unlike anything else in the world. These funds are derived from those who hunt, fish, and boat and the industries they support for one purpose – to make sure we have access to healthy fish and wildlife resources."

The success of the Dingell-Johnson Act reflects a simple principle: when those who use natural resources contribute financially to their management, the results benefit everyone. Fish populations are sustained, habitats are restored, access is expanded, and the tradition of fishing is passed on to future generations.

Seventy-five years after its passage, the act remains one of the most important conservation achievements in American history. By tying together federal leadership, state responsibility, and user investment, the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act created a model of sustainable funding that continues to keep America's waters healthy and accessible.

See you down the trail…

For more Driftwood Outdoors, check out the podcast on www.driftwoodoutdoors.com or anywhere podcasts are streamed.

I like to talk, a lot, about the way MYPath benefits our community. But what if an independent group studied our trail? What would they think?

As I have reported in this column previously, MYPath is part of a regional group, trying to connect trails across Owen and Monroe counties and beyond. When the Indiana University Center for Rural Engagement (IUCRE) offered services to rural communities, we decided to ask if they could help us understand our economic impact and strategies for expanding our trails. IUCRE found a class at the O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs who would take on our project as an intensive course.

I got to know their instructor, Dr. Trent Deckard, as he described the class and the students. These were graduate students in the Master of Public Affairs program. They were IU students, but they came from around the country and met online throughout the summer. However, for one week, Aug. 4 to 8, they would be on-site in Owen County and at IU to get a ground-level look at our community. I also want to point out that these were students who had been in the workforce for a while before digging into grad school. In that way, they were more like peers than students.

On their first day in town, we met at McCormick's Creek Canyon Inn. They interviewed four focus groups: trail users, community organizations, trail experts and property owners. Then we took them to Jit's for lunch, followed by a tour of the Tivoli. Then I led them on a tour of MYPath. The idea was to give them a feel for the community and the trail.

For the next few days, they would send me questions, and I would send them answers. I met them one evening in Bloomington, where we shared beer, and I answered more questions. On Thursday, I met them for lunch, to answer questions and react to their draft of what they wanted to talk about on Friday.

Friday was the big day. The class that had been meeting online for months, had just been meeting in-person and on-site for a week. Now, they were going to present the results of their work to us. Volunteers and community members were invited to hear what they had to say. Dr. Deckard remarked that he has been working on projects like this for many years, and our group of interested community members was the largest, by far, that he had ever witnessed.

The study was titled MYPath, Our Community: The Future of Trail Systems in Owen County, Indiana. They divided it into three sections: economic impact, trail expansion strategy and community engagement and awareness. It's hard to describe how on-target their report was.

It's a 107-page report. Here is a very brief summary: MYPath is providing a benefit to the community. The more we expand trails, the more benefit we get. To expand the trail, we should form a trail-expansion committee. To get more people involved with the trail, we should reach out to them. If you want to read the entire report, or serve on the trail expansion committee, email me at mypathspencer@gmail.com.

After lunch at the Canyon Inn, I gave them a MYPath T-shirt and led them on a brief hike to the McCormick's Creek falls, because that is what I do. I think the class enjoyed visiting our community, and I enjoyed getting to know them. Their report is going to help guide our trail to great places.

The Owen News, a non-profit newspaper launched in 2024 to serve the residents of Owen County and surrounding communities, has officially joined the Hoosier State Press Association (HSPA), marking a significant milestone in its mission to deliver independent, community-focused journalism.

Founded with the goal of reviving local news coverage in an era of shrinking newsrooms and disappearing small-town papers, The Owen News has quickly become a trusted source for civic reporting, cultural features and public service announcements. Its membership in the HSPA connects it to a statewide network of publications committed to journalistic integrity, press freedom and professional development.

"To be one of, if not the first non-profit newspaper to join the Hoosier State Press Association is more than a symbolic gesture—it's a commitment to the values that define responsible journalism. As a non-profit newsroom, we believe in transparency, accountability and the power of local storytelling," said Travis Curry, President of The Owen News Project Board of Directors. "HSPA provides us with the valuable resources and support we need to thrive and continue to protect the public's right to know."

The HSPA, established in 1933, advocates for Indiana newspapers on issues ranging from open government to advertising law and offers training and legal guidance to its members. The Owen News' inclusion signals its growing role in the state's media landscape and its dedication to journalistic excellence.

Marriages

The following marriage licenses were issued since the last issue of The Owen News. Please note that this information is based on the applications. Marriage licenses are valid for 60 days from when they are issued, and the information below does not reflect whether or not the two individuals followed through with a marriage or if the signed marriage license was returned to the Owen County Clerk's office.

8-4
Anna Grace Lunsford (age 19) & Benjamin Blaydes Teipen (age 19)
Robert Douglas Dennison (age 58) & Micah Susanne Burnette (age 47)

8-6
Kathryn Mazzie Tritle (age 24) & Braxton Allen Yeryar (age 28)
Joey Trent Hawks (age 63) & Cynthia Diane Hawks (age 65)

8-8
Jefferson B. Dai (age 28) & Tiffany Kong (age 31)

8-11
Shayla Lorene Welch (age 29) & Michael Hanks Jimenez (age 37)

8-12
Carrie Alene Sipich (age 48) & James Thomas Powell (age 60)
Katelynn Lenee Stoops (age 32) & Joseph Michael O'Neal (age 30)

8-15
Tami Diane Jones (age 64) & Luanne K. Turner (age 61)
Brittany Lynn Chapman (age 26) & Danny Eli Hollingsworth (age 24)

8-19
Jean Marie Terrell (age 52) & Garry Steve Lewis (age 66)

8-21
Louann Collier (age 60) & Mark W. Williams (age 66)

8-22
Dylan Fluet (age 27) & Mollie Jones (age 21)
Charles David Marlett (age 43) & Chrystal Lynn Fishel (age 43)

8-26
Shelby D. Martin (age 21) & Christopher R. Sluss (age 37)

8-28
Casey Jennifer White (age 32) & Logan L. Clements (age 30)
Nikki Wood (age 35) & Olivia Crose (age 26)
Jayden Thomas Payne (age 23) & Taylor Marie Yanta (age 25)

8-29
Brittany R. Easterday (age 36) & Joshua A. Stark (age 35)
Erin Grace Truax (age 32) & Bradan Casey Bybee (age 37)

Dissolutions

The following dissolutions of marriages were filed in Owen County Circuit Court 2 since the last issue of The Owen News.

8-6
Lisa M. Tatlock & Jayson A. Tatlock

8-7
Lori A. Thompson & Anthony Q. Thompson

8-13
Debbie Rae Tate & Travis Tate

8-18
Michael J. Wolford & Carol Wolford

8-19
Trevor Lindemeyer & Vanessa Lindemeyer

8-22
Taylor Wilkie & Wesley Hall

8-25
Christopher M. Heavener & Tricia Ann Heavener

A juvenile person of interest has been detained following the shooting deaths of two adult males in northeastern Owen County last month.

Owen County Dispatch received a call at approximately 3:42 p.m. on Aug. 9 concerning a gunshot victim at a home in the 1500 block of Truesdel Road.

Upon arriving at the scene, Jeffrey Fauber, 61, and Grantham Adam Chandler, 41, were found deceased from gunshot wounds.

Owen County Sheriff's Department, Owen County Coroner's Office, Indiana State Police, Morgan County Sheriff's Office, Owen County EMS, Bloomington Police Department and Owen County Prosecutor's Office personnel all responded to the scene.

"This investigation is tragic, and I am at a loss for words on such a horrendous violation to these two victims. It is sad, but the good thing that comes from all of this is all of the law enforcement units that come together to help get justice for the people and the victims," Owen County Sheriff Ryan White said at a press conference held at the Owen County Courthouse. "Although this is a tragic event and our hearts and prayers go out to the family and the victims, it is heartwarming to see law enforcement officers and public servants come together for the good of the people, and that is what we had here today."

White noted several officers and agencies went above and beyond by coming in to assist on their day off.

The press conference took place at 9 p.m. on Aug. 9.

The person of interest, whose name has not been released, was located in Morgan County.

The Martinsville Police Department posted to their Facebook page that at approximately 4 p.m. "Martinsville Police Officers were notified of a male that entered the Morgan County Sheriff's Department lobby, advising there was an incident in Owen County that was criminal in nature. Martinsville Police Officers identified and detained the juvenile male."

White said that Owen County residents do not have anything to worry about and that there is no further threat that residents need to be concerned about at this time.

Prosecutor Benjamin Kim would like to remind the public that all persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

What charges the juvenile would face and whether or not they will be charged as an adult has not been made public. A court hearing was scheduled for Aug. 28 to determine whether or not the juvenile would be tried as an adult, at which point their name would be made public. That hearing was continued until Oct. 27.

A Spencer man sentenced to 60-years in the shooting murder of Elizabeth "Bizzy" Stephens filed an appeal in his case last fall.

Jay White was found guilty of murder and obstruction of justice in April of last year and sentenced on May 30, 2024.

"The trial court erred in failing to overturn the jury verdict, as no reasonable jury could find the State proved Jay White guilty beyond a reasonable doubt due to the lack of sufficient evidence mishandled evidence and the overwhelming evidence entered by the defense that proved the State's theory of murder was an impossibility," the nearly 50 page appellate brief reads. "The trial court's error was compounded when it erred in failing to overturn the verdict from a jury trial rife with prosecutorial misconduct, wherein the prosecutor engaged in mischaracterization of evidence, failed to account for lost evidence, failed to process and test evidence, and the prosecution misused incompetent polygraph evidence to obtain a wrongful conviction and an unjustly long sentence in light of the factors provided at sentencing."

The brief, filed in late October 2024, goes on to say that the court "egregiously erred" by failing to sustain the defense's motions to exclude the stipulated polygraph.

It argues that there was a breach of contract, an onerous nature of the stipulation and an inability for the polygraph examiner to provide answers to "foundational questions regarding the readings a polygraph provides, any empirical studies showing a direct correlation between the physiological responses detected by a polygraph device and deceit, as well as the appropriateness that a candidate may have given a brain injury, such as the one Jay White sustained."

The state responded with their brief on Feb. 26, which was also approximately 50 pages.

In April, the Indiana Court of Appeals issued a Memorandum Decision.

"The trial court did not abuse its discretion when it admitted the results of the polygraph exam or the testimony of the polygraph examiner. In addition, the prosecutor did not commit any acts of misconduct, let alone acts that either individually or cumulatively amounted to fundamental error. And the State presented sufficient evidence to support White's murder conviction. We therefore affirm his convictions," the Memorandum Decision reads.

White's public defender, Megan Schueler then filed a petition for rehearing, which the appellate court denied in June.

In July, Schueler then petitioned the appellate court to transfer the case to the Indiana Supreme Court, and that petition was denied on Aug. 26.

A juvenile person of interest has been detained following the shooting deaths of two adult males in northeastern Owen County.

Owen County Dispatch received a call at approximately 3:42 p.m. concerning a gunshot victim at a home in the 1500 block of Truesdel Road.

Upon arriving at the scene Jeffrey Fauber, 61, and Grantham Adam Chandler, 41, were found deceased from gun shot wounds.

Owen County Sheriffs Department, Owen County Coroner's Office, Indiana State Police, Morgan County Sheriff's Office, Owen County EMS, Bloomington Police Department and Owen County Prosecutor's Office all responded to the scene.

“This investigation is tragic, and I am at a loss for words on such a horrendous violation to these two victims. It is sad, but the good thing that comes from all of this is all of the law enforcement units that come together to help get justice for the people and the victims,” Owen County Sheriff Ryan White said at a press conference held at the Owen County Courthouse. "Although this is a tragic event and our hearts and prayers go out to the family and the victims, it is heartwarming to see law enforcement officers and public servants come together for the good of the people, and that is what we had here today."

White noted several officers and agencies went above and beyond by coming in to assist on their day off.

The press conference took place at 9 p.m. this evening.

The name of the juvenile person of interest, what charges they would face if any and whether or not they will be charged as an adult was not made public at this time.

The person of interest was located in Morgan County.

The Martinsville Police Department posted to their Facebook page that at approximately 4 p.m. "Martinsville Police Officers were notified of a male that entered the Morgan County Sheriff's Department lobby, advising there was an incident in Owen County that was criminal in nature. Martinsville Police Officers identified and detained the juvenile male."

White said that Owen County residents do not have anything to worry about and that there is no further threat that residents need to be concerned about at this time.

Prosecutor Benjamin Kim would like to remind the public that all persons are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

This is a developing story, which will be updated as further details are released.

The 2025 Owen County 4-H Fair wrapped up another successful year, drawing hundreds of families, friends and neighbors to celebrate the achievements of local youth and the enduring spirit of community. Held from July 6 to 11, the fair was a vibrant showcase of talent, hard work and hometown pride.

From the moment the gates opened, the fairgrounds buzzed with excitement. The 4-H Exhibit Hall brimmed with creativity and innovation, featuring projects in agriculture, science, arts and more. From intricately decorated cakes to detailed woodworking and robotics displays, the exhibits reflected the dedication and diverse interests of Owen County's 4-H members.

Livestock shows were a major highlight, with young participants proudly presenting the animals they've raised and cared for throughout the year. Whether it was cattle, swine, poultry or goats, each show was a testament to the responsibility, knowledge and passion of these young agriculturalists. The Vintage Showmanship 4-H Council fundraising events, in particular, drew a large crowd and celebrated the timeless skills and traditions passed down through generations of 4-H families.

"This fair is more than just an event – it's a celebration of growth, learning and community," said a representative from Purdue Extension–Owen County. "Our 4-H members have worked incredibly hard all year, and this is their moment to shine."

The fair also featured a wide range of Mini 4-H projects, giving younger children a chance to explore interests from dinosaurs and geology to cupcake decorating and photography. These budding 4-H'ers brought energy and enthusiasm that promises a bright future for the program.

Behind the scenes, the Owen County Fair Association played a crucial role in making the event possible. Their continued support, along with countless volunteers, sponsors and local businesses, ensured that the fairgrounds were welcoming and well-equipped for a week of celebration.

"The community support this year has been phenomenal," said one 4-H parent. "From donated supplies to packed bleachers at the livestock shows, it's clear that Owen County believes in its youth."

Evening events brought the community together with games, contests and live entertainment, creating a festive atmosphere that extended well beyond the barns and exhibit halls. The fair wasn't just about competition – it was about connection, tradition and recognizing the potential of every young person involved.

As the final ribbons were awarded and the last animals loaded up, one thing was clear: the 2025 Owen County 4-H Fair was a resounding success. It honored the past, celebrated the present and inspired the future – all through the lens of youth achievement and community pride.

Here's to another year of growing leaders, building friendships and keeping the 4-H spirit alive in Owen County.

Indiana is a sleeper state for musky fishing. As surprising as it may sound, Indiana is home to one of the premier musky fisheries in the country.

Lake Webster, the Barbee Chain and the Tippecanoe Chain are the most popular musky fishing lakes of northern Indiana, but a few lesser-known waters remain favorite destinations of those in the know.

The Hoosier State's most productive musky waters are in the northeast region where a number of other lakes and rivers produce trophy musky. None of these lakes are large by any means, but all boast astonishing musky densities.

Muskies are a native fish species in Indiana, but ironically only to the extreme southern tributaries of the Ohio River. Yet, for over three decades now, muskies have been growing in number and popularity in northern Indiana's natural lakes.

There are currently six waters being stocked with musky in northern Indiana. They are Lake Webster, the Tippecanoe Chain (three lakes), the Barbee Chain (seven lakes), Skinner Lake, Everett Lake and Bruce Lake. Several other lakes have been stocked over the years and still hold good populations of fish. The most notable is Loon Lake, which was one of the first Indiana lakes to be stocked with musky.

The history of the northern Indiana musky fishery is rooted in a success story of collaboration between anglers and the DNR. The DNR and Hoosier Musky Club both need to be commended. This example of the public and government working together to establish a fishery remains a shining example of how to accomplish such a task.

The DNR began the musky stocking program after the anglers presented the DNR with their desire for establishing musky in a number of northern Indiana lakes. The initial stocking of musky took place in 1978 when a select group of lakes were stocked with fingerlings.

Lake Webster was included in that stocking and received an initial 350 musky between 10 and 12 inches long. After 1981, aggressive stocking efforts ensued. The collaboration between the musky clubs and the DNR continued to work well as each contributed fish to the stocking program.

Since the late 1990s, the musky population of Lake Webster has served as Indiana's brood stock for musky eggs. All muskies now stocked in the state originate from adults captured there. The state no longer imports any muskies from outside states, so Indiana's musky program is completely self-sustaining.

To collect eggs and milt, the DNR captures the Lake Webster adult muskies in large fish traps. DNR biologists collect eggs, which are then fertilized with milt. They hatch at the East Fork State Fish Hatchery in southwest Indiana. The fingerlings are stocked in Indiana lakes and reservoirs.

At the time they are stocked into the fisheries, musky average eight to 10 inches in length. It is estimated they'll reach 30 inches by the time they're four years old, and most should be close to the magic mark of 36 inches, making them a legal fish, by the time they reach five years of age.

During their last 30 days at the hatchery the musky are fed minnows to help hone their predatory instincts.

Very few muskies are kept by fishermen. This is what we anglers want to hear and work to promote. However, it is not illegal to keep a musky. If your heart is set on putting a musky on the wall, and a reproduction just won't satisfy your desire, then know that Indiana has a daily limit of one musky that must measure at least 36 inches.

Although this column focuses on fishing the natural lakes of northern Indiana, it's worth noting that there are four musky fisheries in the southern half of the state. Eagle Creek Reservoir, Brookville, Lake Waveland and four connected strip pits in the Dugger Unit of the Greene-Sullivan State Forest are stocked with musky each year. The pits are Bass, West, Black Cat and Duck Lakes.

Catching a musky is more challenging than most freshwater fishing opportunities. It's a lot like hunting. You must put in time and have patience. When the stars align and you end up cradling a musky in your arms, you truly are holding a trophy of a lifetime.

See you down the trail…

For more Driftwood Outdoors, check out the podcast on driftwoodoutdoors.com or anywhere podcasts are streamed.

Area 10 Agency on Aging, along with community partner Loren Wood Builders, is again planning for this year's Safe at Home event to make seniors' homes safer and more accessible.

During the event, Area 10 tackles many projects all at once with multiple teams of volunteers. Most will be outdoor projects.

The one-half-day community service event is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 4. The goal is to make homes safer for older Hoosiers—each year, one in three adults age 65 and older falls, resulting in $19,000 on average in healthcare costs and is the leading cause of injury death for this age group. Research shows the best way to prevent falls for persons at moderate to high risk of falls includes home modifications, which can be as simple as installing a $30 grab bar in the bathroom.

We are looking for eligible home projects for the day. If you or your loved one lives in a home that has any of the following needs, give us a call at 812-876-3383 and speak to one of our ADRC representatives.

Be sure to mention Safe at Home!

Eligible projects may include: leaf raking, gutter cleaning, shrub trimming, hand-rail installation, grab bar installation, replacing light bulbs and smoke and/or carbon monoxide detector installation. We are accepting interested calls through Aug. 29 to allow time for follow-up and site visits. We also are looking for volunteers.

To volunteer, contact Chris Myers at cmyers@area10agency.org or 812-935-2503.

I don't know about you, but I've been feeling discombobulated lately.

Discombobulated? That was a term my father used to indicate he was "out of sorts" or "off key" or "down in the dumps." It is a perfect word to represent our emotions when life throws us out of balance. Sometimes life throws so many issues and events at us we become discombobulated. That word makes me smile today. Just a little smile. Add it to your dictionary of weird words. It comes in handy when life makes you feel just not yourself.

Here is another term you may not be familiar with – Shinrin-yoku. That is a new term for me, I wonder what language that is? It means forest-bathing. That is a term the younger generation has created for walking in the woods. It doesn't require removing your clothes, just go take a walk in the woods or any wild place.

Research confirms that being in a forest has a calming and stress-reducing effect on humans. Studies indicate that time spent in a forest decreases the stress hormone cortisol. Anxiety, depression, even fatigue is diminished by time spent with trees.

Another research study demonstrated that walking in a forest had a greater impact on cardiovascular function than walking in an urban park. Another study proved that spending time surrounded by nature puts our sympathetic nervous system in the "rest and digest" state. Evidently, sitting under a tree tells our parasympathetic nervous system, "Calm down, time to relax." None of this comes as a huge surprise to me. The amount of research being done on the subject does surprise me.

Nature has a way of calming us, restoring our vigor and improving our moods. We must make the effort to spend time surrounding ourselves with the wonder of nature. Taking a walk in the woods or along the river is excellent self-care. I think spending time getting acquainted with nature is vitally important to a child's development. They need to wade in creeks and listen to spring peepers and hear the birds sing their morning songs. We all do. The world seems dark and mean currently. Most of us worry about our children, the economy, health issues and the future of our country. The environment, even the weather, seems to be changing. The TV news anchors give us negative reports. It is easy to become discombobulated.

Owen County offers many places to enjoy the natural world. McCormick's Creek State Park, Cataract Falls, Green's Bluff Nature Preserve, Owen-Putnam State Forest and the MYPath Trail along the White River in Spencer. My favorite is the Owen-Putnam State Forest. You will find small creeks, deep ravines, lush ferns, ancient cliffs covered with soft green moss and trees so tall and thick they shut out the sunlight. At the Fish Creek Campground, there is a small lake that is an easy walk from the parking lot. Visit the Sweet Owen Convention & Visitor's Bureau on the courthouse square and pick up a booklet about places to hike in the county. Go take a hike and hug a tree. I am as soon as it stops raining. It is the best medicine for what ails me.

'til next time,
Annie

For those of us who have lived in Indiana for most of our lives, we are used to being called "Hoosiers." Most of us just accept the name, no questions asked. We commonly associate the name with the IU athletic teams, the "Hurrying Hoosiers." But collectively, for all of us that make our homes here in Indiana, we are considered Hoosiers.

So just what is a Hoosier?

Over the years, I have often been asked this question by my friends who live out of state. I haven't always had a ready answer for them. The most common explanation that's quick to come to my mind is, "A Hoosier is a person who is a native of Indiana."

But where did the name come from? I've often heard the terms "Hoosier hospitality," "Hoosier traditions," and many more.

And I have heard different versions of how the name came to be, but I am not sure that anybody really knows.

The meaning of the term has often been the cause of great controversy in many conversations, and the origin has been disputed by some local history buffs.

The most widely accepted story that I could find goes back to the early Indiana pioneers. It seems that they used to greet one another from their log cabin doors by shouting out, "Who's yere."

Another story was about a contractor by the name of Samuel Hoosier who preferred hiring men from Indiana. They became known as Hoosier's men or Hoosiers.

Still yet another account is about early settlers that were vicious fighters that fought like European soldiers of the time. They were known to "hush" any opponent, henceforth, the name Hoosiers.

Other stories claim that the word came from a Native American word, "hoosa," which meant maize.

The name even came up in the Indiana legislature when Rep. J.D. Prescott introduced a bill to officially recognize Harry Hoosier as the inspiration for the Hoosier name. Harry Hoosier was a black minister who became a well-known preacher in the 1770s. The bill did not pass.

I think all these theories are well and good, but none of them felt right to me. I decided that being a Hoosier must be something so special as to defy explanation. I think that small-town Indiana is like no other place on earth. You must live here for a while to get it. It's a place where people know your name, and if they don't, they wave at you like they have known you for years.

When I think of Indiana, several words come to mind: Tradition. Self-sufficiency. Hard-working. Friendly. The people here are just different.

It's like certain jokes are only understood if you are Hoosier. It's an understanding between people. The air is of a certain quality, the people more so. I think it's something that you just know on the inside and that comes with years of living here.

A few years ago, I lived out of state for a few months. I got rather homesick, and before long, I moved back home to Indiana. While I was gone, I really missed my Hoosier roots. I was sort of a displaced Hoosier if you will. It just goes to show, you can take the girl out of Indiana, but you can't take Indiana out of the girl. Once a Hoosier, always a Hoosier.

A Hoosier is someone who was born here, who lives here and loves it. Indiana is a place to feel at home. It's my home. I am a Hoosier, and I am proud of it.

The lyrics to a song written in 1917 by Ballard MacDonald and composed by James F. Hanley, "(Back Home Again in) Indiana," seem to say it best:

Chorus:
Back home again in Indiana,
and it seems that I can see
The gleaming candlelight still shining bright,
Thru the Sycamores for me.
The new mown hay sends all its fragrance
From the fields I used to roam.
When I dream about the moonlight on the Wabash,
Then I long for my Indiana home.

If you know, you know. From one Hoosier to another, it's good to be at home in Indiana.

Susan

The Gathering of the People Powwow will take place this weekend, Aug. 2 and 3, in Cataract.

Gates open at 10 a.m. each day, with Grand Entry taking place at noon on Saturday and Sunday.

The event is an all ages event. Children under the age of three will be admitted for free. Veterans and first responders will be admitted for free with proper identification.

Those ages 10 to 59 will be charged $5 for admission, and those aged 60 or older will be admitted for free. Veterans and first responders will be admitted for free with proper identification.

The event will also have Buffalo Child who will serve as emcee and perform a Hoop Dance. He has been in over 100 movies, films, and TV shows. His Hoop Dance will take place at 7 p.m. on Saturday. The event will also have a glow dance at dusk on Saturday.

Additional information can be found on the event's Facebook page.

Those interested in more information can contact one of the following organizers: Cyndi Capps at 812-821-4406, Rachel Blythe at 812-698-7378, Sarah Baysinger at 812-229-2596.

Pastures abound in Owen County with over 6,000 acres of pastureland, according to the USDA 2022 agriculture census.

A productive pasture can provide adequate nutrition for goats, sheep, horses and cattle when properly managed and rested. Forage can be an "orphan crop," with little attention paid to fertilization, soil pH and weed control. As with any crop, pasture performance can be enhanced with some key management efforts. This article highlights a few steps pasture owners can take to improve pasture performance for better grazing and hay production.

As with most agronomic crops, a key building block to a good stand of pasture is understanding the soil, from drainage to fertility to soil pH level. Soils vary with respect to drainage capacity and the ability to move water through the root zone of plants. Many acres of pasture in Owen County are well drained, sloping soils. Lack of water holding capacity is more of an issue on these soils. Pastures that are not well drained can become compacted with excessive livestock traffic, limiting growth potential of the forages. Pasture drainage can also play a role in the sustainability of a stand of alfalfa.

An alfalfa field with poor drainage will not have a good prognosis. Alfalfa requires well-drained soil.

Soil pH is another important factor in determining the success of a pasture. Alfalfa requires a pH around 7. Most grasses and clovers can tolerate a soil pH between 6 and 7. An accurate determination of pH can be found in a soil test. Landowners may be eligible this fall for a free professional soil test, courtesy of Holden Abrell with the Indiana State Department of Agriculture. A soil test will provide recommendations for liming.

Have you seen a pasture with broomsedge growing? Chances are good that this soil is acidic. Don't guess, just test!

Another benefit of a soil test is the determination of soil fertility, especially phosphorus and potassium. Low levels of P and K will not grow a robust pasture.

It is a crop that needs nutrition in order to grow and develop. Fall will be a great time to conduct a soil test and make needed adjustments.

Sometimes pastures require renovation. This involves adding seed that comes into good contact with the soil. The only time I recommend sprinkling seed on top of soil is late winter frost seeding. The freezing and thawing of the soil can help place the seed deep enough for proper germination. Weed control is another issue in pastures.

There are too many acres that do not get clipped in order to prevent weed seed production. Weeds produce competition for forage and sometimes require chemical control.

Always read and follow the label for any herbicide product you may select. Some products require a two-week withdrawal of grazing animals following application.

Questions about your pasture? Contact Purdue Extension-Owen County at 812-829-5020.

The Cloverdale Community School Corporation (CCSC) Board of School Trustees, working in the absence of board member Emily Haltom, met July 14 to approve routine matters and to address several items under the new business portion of the meeting.

Under routine matters, the board voted 4-0-2 to approve meeting minutes for executive and regular sessions held June 9. Katrina Lewis and Mike Rightmyer II both abstained from the vote due to being absent from the June 9 meeting.

Acting on a motion from Rightmyer, seconded by Lewis, the board voted 6-0 to approve the latest claims and financial reports, which CCSC Superintendent Greg Linton advised totaled $3,313,472.32 since the board's previous meeting.

Addressing new business, the board held a hearing for additional appropriations, where superintendent Linton noted the corporation's agreement with Brain Tree Academy continues to generate more revenue and expenditures that can be anticipated during the budget approval process each year.

"This causes the corporation to use more education fund appropriation than was approved during the September 2024 budget approval process," he explained. "Therefore, I am requesting the board to approve an additional appropriation for the education fund in the amount of $4,300,000, and $2,800,000 in the operation fund. The additional cash is in both funds as cash balance; however, I need to be given the authority to use the cash through the remainder of the calendar year to cover additional expenditures."

Following the public hearing, the board cast separate 6-0 votes to approve the additional appropriation resolutions as well as a resolution to transfer the amounts from the corporation's education fund to its operation fund.

"During the 2025 budget process the board approved this exact same resolution," Linton explained. "The State Board of Accounts allows a school corporation to transfer up to 15 percent of the incoming revenue that is received in the education fund. At the time that we put the 2025 budget together, that was 2.7 million dollars. Due to the increased revenue that we have through a variety of funding streams, our new 15 percent total would be 3.6 million dollars."

Next, the board voted unanimously to approve the purchase of 203 Brown Avenue, north of Cloverdale High School (CHS), for $15,000. The property will be utilized to create additional parking.

Acting on a recommendation from CCSC Curriculum Director Cathy Ames, the board voted 6-0 to permit CCSC to apply a School Profile Amendment with the Indiana Department of Education to officially add a new virtual high school: Clover Distance Learning Academy High School.

"This addition is being requested due to the continued growth of our virtual education program," Ames noted. "The increasing demand for flexible, remote learning options among our student population necessitates the creation of a dedicated virtual high school to better serve our students and their families."

Linton agreed, noting the Clover Distance Learning Academy High School will enable the corporation to continue its successful partnership with Braintree Academy, which has been instrumental in supporting the delivery and development of high-quality virtual instruction.

Requests to approve coordinator employment agreements and school bus driver agreements also both received unanimous board approval.

Next, the board voted 6-0 in favor of funding the Jobs for America's Graduates (JAG) position at CHS for the 2025-2026 school year.

"The Indiana JAG program was cut from the state budget for the 2025-2026 school year," Linton said. "I recently met with Kim Snodgrass, Indiana JAG director, to discuss the possibility of CCSC financially supporting our JAG program for the 2025-2026 school year, as the national JAG organization lobbies Indiana to include funding for the program for the 2026-2027 school year. She assured me that there would still be some state activities for students, and there would be no changes made at the national level. Mr. (Karl) Turk currently teaches four Spanish classes each day at CHS and completes JAG responsibilities the rest of the day. I am requesting the board put Mr. Turk on a CCSC teacher contract for the 2025-26 school year to allow him to maintain his current responsibilities for JAG and Spanish. The contract will represent an additional cost of $51,107 to the budget, which we can afford. The contract would be for one year to see what happens at the state level."

Other items receiving board approval included requests to approve the creation of a CHS Agriculture Workplace Specialist position; changing the Cloverdale Elementary School (CES) student services coordinator position to full-time; support staff handbook changes; Cloverdale Middle School (CMS) instructional assistant pay related to the Back to School Bash; renewal of current paid coaching staff; a $30,000 grant benefitting the preschool program awarded through the Putnam County Community Foundation; a $34,559.88 grant awarded to Knoy from the Putnam County Community Foundation; and a $500 grant, also from the Putnam County Community Foundation, to benefit the Kids Make a Change program at CES.

In addition, the board approved the following professional leave, field trip, and facility use requests:

Professional leaves

Aug. 12 – Ethan Linton, Expulsion Examiner Workshop, Area 30, Greencastle.
Aug. 14 – Tori Maldonado, Cathy Smith, Jessica Fidler and Autumn Lewellen, Using AI and Checkpoint Report Data to Prepare Students on iLearn, Area 30, Greencastle.
Sept. 4 – Nicole Campbell, Navigating 504 Workshop, Area 30, Greencastle.
Sept. 25 – Chelsey Meluch, Preventing/Eliminating Chronic Disruptive Behavior, Area 30, Greencastle.

Field trip

Third Friday of each month – CMS PIE, 6:30 to 8 a.m., Putnam County Fairgrounds.

Facility use

Two days each week, softball field, softball practice.
June 20 – CHS gymnasium and hallways, volleyball camp.
July 14 – CHS auxiliary gymnasium, travel softball practice, agility, conditioning.
Aug. 29 – CMS gymnasium, CMS sixth-grade dance.
Sept. 26 – CMS gymnasium, CMS eighth-grade fundraiser.
Oct. 31 – CMS gymnasium, dance.

Additional personnel matters receiving unanimous board approval included:

Resignations

Shanon McGuire – CES custodian
Tyce Jackson – CMS math teacher/athletic director
Dani Cummings – CES instructional assistant

Employment

Anna Tallent – CES special education (SPED) teacher
Autumn Lewellen – CMS math teacher/athletic director
Kiersten Wade – CES instructional assistant
Sara Varnes – CES instructional assistant
Alethea Mann – CES/CMS health aide
Melissa Kline – CMS instructional assistant
Tyce Jackson – CES special education (SPED) instructional assistant
Silas Plasters – CES custodian
Debra Meek – bus driver
Tamera Moy – CMS Café assistant head cook
Drew Boyette – CHS Ag Workplace Specialist

Coaching resignations

Nick Winders – football coach
Josh Stewart – baseball coach

Coaching Hires

Kade Schroer – CHS assistant football coach
Chelsey Adams – CMS eighth-grade girls' volleyball coach
Kiersten Wade – CMS eighth-grade girls' basketball coach
Brandon Moon – CMS eighth-grade boys' basketball coach
Lori Pieper – CMS seventh-grade girls' volleyball coach
Michael Glassburn – CHS junior varsity girls' basketball coach
Autumn Lewellen – CHS varsity girls' volleyball head coach
Lori Halloran – CHS junior varsity girls' volleyball coach
Jason Frye – CHS freshman football coach

Coaching volunteers

Autumn Lewellen – CHS volleyball/girls' basketball assistant coach
Kristin Kukman – CHS volleyball/girls' basketball assistant coach
Tori Combs – CHS girls' volleyball assistant coach
Brooke Hart – CHS girls' volleyball assistant coach
Darin Campbell – CHS girls' volleyball assistant coach
Paige Glassburn – CHS girls' basketball assistant coach
Emily Mann – CHS girls' basketball assistant coach
Kiersten Wade – CHS girls' basketball assistant coach
Kassie Wade – CHS girls' basketball assistant coach
Veronica Carter – CHS girls' basketball assistant coach
Michael Nees – CHS girls' basketball assistant coach
Joey Hart – CHS boys' basketball volunteer assistant coach
Chase Haltom – CHS boys' basketball volunteer assistant coach
Brandon Moon – CHS boys' basketball volunteer assistant coach
Jalen Moore – CHS boys' basketball volunteer assistant coach
Patrick Rady – CHS boys' basketball volunteer assistant coach
Daniel Varnes – CHS boys' basketball volunteer assistant coach
Noah Betz – CHS boys' basketball volunteer assistant coach
Eli Kelley – CHS boys' basketball volunteer assistant coach
Nolan Kelley – CHS boys' basketball volunteer assistant coach
Josh Michael – CHS boys' basketball volunteer assistant coach
JD Hoover – CHS boys' basketball volunteer assistant coach
Mike Parks – CHS football volunteer assistant coach
Tom Winders – CHS football volunteer assistant coach
Michael Nees – CHS football volunteer assistant coach
Billy Boyette – CHS football volunteer assistant coach
Drew Boyette – CHS football volunteer assistant coach
McGuire Lee – CHS football volunteer assistant coach
Debbie Steffy – CHS volunteer assistant girls' golf coach

The Cloverdale Community School Board will meet again on Monday, Aug. 11 beginning at 7 p.m. in the Arthur L. Johnson Administration Building, 310 E. Logan St., Cloverdale. Members of the board include Vivian Whitaker, Katrina Lewis, Donna Fidler, Melissa Carrell, Emily Haltom, Joe Mann and Mike Rightmyer II.

The paved section of MYPath has only been open for about 10 months, but lots of people have been walking, running, cycling and simply enjoying the trail. Most of the users would say this trail has been worth the investment in recreation. Wouldn't it be nice if we could say it has been worth the investment financially, too?

Some people balk at the cost of trails. That's understandable. The Riverfront Trail section of MYPath, a 10-foot wide, paved, ADA accessible path with an 80-foot long, 14-feet wide, steel bridge was nearly $1 million. How can we justify paying that much for a relatively short trail?

If we were at a party and I started talking about the financial justification of trails, I would start mentioning "multipliers." And you would politely back away and find someone more interesting to talk to.

So, let's tell a story about the trail. Bob and Jane live in Indianapolis and like to find new trails to hike. They see the MYPath Trail System Facebook page and decide to visit the trail. They decided to go to Civilian Brewing Corps for lunch. Then they stop to fill up with gas and start making plans for their next visit. This is a real economic impact from attracting visitors to your trail. Imagine what the impact will be when we connect to McCormick's Creek State Park and its 600,000 annual visitors.

Now, another story, and this one is not imaginary. The company that laid the blacktop was Tucker Paving of Spencer. The workers on all parts of the trail construction got lunches, drinks and fuel. I didn't ask to see their receipts, but I'm sure it was mostly local. When I need materials for installing the trail counters, or nearly everything else I do at the trail, I go to Spencer Hardware.

How much money was spent locally on this local project? How much of this money would not have happened if MYPath did not exist? It is hard to quantify, but you know it is something.

And one more story that is not made up. Have you noticed the new sidewalk and lighting on South Main Street? That came from grants to the MYPath Trail System from ROI and Smithville Charitable Trust.

Radius Indiana oversees the Monon South trail that stretches from the Clarksville, Indiana area to Mitchell, Indiana. They contracted with the Eppley Institute for Parks and Public Lands for an economic impact study. Eppley estimated 22 percent to 34 percent of trail users will be out-of-town visitors. Projected spending will be $34,000 to $111,000 per mile.

While spending by visitors is nice, the private investment drawn to trails is transformative. As I have toured other community trails, people point to the new stores and even housing developments that want to locate close to trails. According to an Indianapolis Star story from July 31, 2024, the Monon Trail through Carmel has attracted more than $1 billion and the Nickel Plate Trail in Fishers has attracted $515 million in private investment.

Last session, the Indiana Legislature provided $0 for trails. However, they created a summer study committee to look at the economic value of public lands. I will be watching closely. I am confident MYPath is contributing to this community in terms of health, recreation and money.

It's late summer, and a lot of fishermen have packed it in for the year, but that's a mistake. Good fishing is still available if you can put up with the heat. Plastic worms are a top summer bait for bass. It's a natural lure that fish like year-round.

In my last column, I talked about experiences with a worm rigging technique called wacky style. My wife says I'm wacky about fishing, so this method suits me well. Here are some insights that I hope you can use. It's a good time to be on the water. The weather is usually stable, with early and late in the day the peak times.

A few years ago, my cousin Ron clued me in to a worm fishing method involving hooking the lure in the middle. He used a black and red Strike King Shim-E-Stick, which is available in most tackle stores. The hook is very important. A wide-gap weedless design that has the right size to come through the middle of the worm and leave plenty of hook-up space is the ticket. Fit an O-Ring tightly over the bait's middle, and place the hook under the ring. An O-Ring tool is available which makes insertion of the rings simple. The ring must be very snug to avoid hook slippage on the worm. I've also heard of some guys using zip ties.

There are several lures like the Shim-E, and I've tried a couple of others. It's just that there's something about this particular bait that, as its name suggests, does the shimmy just right. There may be others that do as well. I've seen bass pro Kevin Van Dam use the Strike King Ocho effectively, and there's the original Gary Yamamoto Senko. The bait must have the right amount of flex. If it's too stiff, the ends don't waggle enticingly. It also needs to be tough enough to withstand several bass thinking it's their dinner.

Bass usually don't drop this bait, but you don't want to wait too long. The hookset doesn't have to be like yanking out a log. The wacky hook is more exposed than in a Texas rig. Just a nice firm pull back does it. If you're using a weedless hook, maybe a little more wait time and set force are needed. The non-weedless has a super hook-up ratio and the weedless somewhat less, but sometimes the cover demands the hook guard.

I feel that if a bass is in the vicinity of this bait, and you work it right, he or she will likely eat it. Just don't overwork it. Subtle twitches with your rod moving ten o'clock to eleven will be enough. Repeat: You can't work this lure slowly enough. Pretend it's a live night crawler that might come off the hook if you're too aggressive with it. This takes patience. Don't get antsy. Slow down and work over an area thoroughly.

An additional plus about the right worm is that when you give it slack, it floats down and slightly backward. If a fish is following it trying to make up his mind, that action usually does the deal. Bluegill or crappie may hit it, but they don't pester this rig as much as some other worms, such as the curly tails. The best way to fish it is with no weight, unless you have to get it down deeper than about eight feet. A slip sinker doesn't allow the proper bait action. Using a very light, clamped on lead weight above the hook would be ok, or you could try inserting a small nail weight into the worm's head. The key is this bait's slow fall.

The Shim-E or other Senko-type bait should be another tool in your bass arsenal. My personal favorite color for clear water is Morning Dawn, a bluegill imitator. For off-colored water, maybe try green pumpkin. Just be patient and don't work this lure too fast. Believe a bass is studying it, because one probably is.

Downtown Gosport will come alive with the familiar sights and sounds of the annual Lazy Days Festival beginning Aug. 7. This year's theme is "Small Town Proud."

The full festival schedule includes:

Aug. 7

5:30 p.m. – Vendor booths open; registration for free Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest

5:30 p.m. – Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest begins

6 p.m. – Opening ceremony, with an opening prayer by Pastor Bill Grant, presentation of colors by the Gosport VFW Post #7850, National Anthem sung by Rose O'Neal, Committee introduction by Lazy Days President Chris Wesley, announcement of Outstanding Senior Citizens and Outstanding Citizen and presentation of Little Miss and Mister

6:30 to 9 p.m. – Live music by Aaron Grubb and Rose O'Neal on the Bandstand

Aug. 8

10 a.m. until after the day's last program – Gosport History Museum open

3 p.m. – Tim Dittemore Memorial Car Show (sponsored by Meineke Car Care)

4 p.m. – "Gosport in the '70s" program at the Gosport History Museum

4 p.m. – Tim Dittemore Memorial Car Show

5 p.m. – Vendor booths open

5 to 7 p.m. – Gosport VFW Post #7850 Auxiliary fish fry

5:30 to 7 p.m. – Kid's games

6 p.m. – Car show judging

6:30 to 8:30 p.m. – Live music by Crossroads Collective on the Bandstand

9 to 11 p.m. – Live music by Cabin Row on the Bandstand

Aug. 9

10 a.m. until after the day's last program – Gosport History Museum open

6:45 to 7:15 a.m. – Gosport Lion's Club 5k registration

7:30 a.m. – Lion's Club 5k begins

8:30 a.m. – Bike race registration

9 a.m. – Bike race begins

9:30 a.m. – Baby Contest sign-in (must be pre-registered)

10 a.m. – Baby Contest begins

10 a.m. – Free kid's games

10:30 a.m. – "Gosport in the '70s" program at the Gosport History Museum

11 a.m. – Vendor booths open

11 a.m. to noon – Matt Kalita Magic Show

12 to 1 p.m. – Parade line up and registration at the Community Building (see Caleb Corder for number and line-up location)

1 p.m. – Parade

2 p.m. (or 15 minutes after parade ends) – "Gosport in the '70s" program at the Gosport History Museum

2 p.m. – Bed Race

3 p.m. – Journey Wrestling

3 p.m. – Kappa Kappa Sigma raffle

3 to 7 p.m. – Kid's games

4 to 7 p.m. – Gosport VFW Post #7850 cheeseburgers

5 to 7 p.m. – Live music by Ashley Booe on the Bandstand

8 to 11 p.m. – Live music by Eastern Wing Band on the Bandstand

Aug. 10

Community Church Service in the Park

10 to 10:45 a.m. – Gospel sing

10:45 to 11:30 a.m. – Sermon

12 p.m. – Community pitch-in (fried chicken provided by churches). Please bring the following items according to the first initial of your last name: A-G: side dish; H-N: dessert; O-U: drinks; and V-Z: bread/rolls.

The Owen County Fair Queen Committee is searching for contact information for former Owen County Fair Queens:

1948, Janet Asher; 1954, Joan Beach; 1965, Sue Giddings Scheiman; 1967, Connie Smith; 1969, Sally Johnson; 1971, Diane Herring; 1977, Melanie Herring; 1980, Tammy Weaver; 1982, Candi Smith; 1983, Marilyn Marquez; 1994, Chrissy Deckard; 1995, Chris Scholl Jarrett; 2000, Amber Gramentz.

If you have any information (phone, address, email, etc.) please contact Becky Wallace at 812-859-4343 or Tom Wallace at the Chamber of Commerce, admin@myowencountychamber.com or 812-829-3245.

If you haven't visited the Owen County Public Library (OCPL) in a while, you might be surprised by everything that's waiting for you beyond the bookshelves.

Whether you stop by in person, connect through our bookmobile or browse from the comfort of your home, the OCPL offers a wide variety of materials and services designed to meet the needs of today's readers, learners and explorers.

Beyond books, the OCPL provides magazines and newspapers for in-library reading, along with CDs, DVDs and video games available for checkout. For those needing internet access on the go, we also offer portable internet hotspots that can be checked out for free. These devices provide Wi-Fi access anywhere a cellular signal is available, making it easy to stay connected for work, school or leisure.

If you're planning a fun and educational outing for the family, the library has two Eiteljorg Museum passes available to check out. Each pass offers free admission for up to four adults and any accompanying children or grandchildren under the age of 17. In addition to admission, the pass includes free parking in the White River State Park garage (as available), a 15 percent discount in the museum store and a 10 percent discount at the café. The passes are first-come, first-served and can be checked out for seven days – an excellent way to enjoy a cultural experience in Indianapolis at no cost.

For those who enjoy technology or creative projects, the OCPL also offers 3D printing services that allow you to turn your ideas into tangible creations. In addition, your library card gives you free access to Creativebug, an online learning platform featuring thousands of video classes in crafting, sewing, baking and more.

Of course, books remain at the heart of everything we do. Whether you prefer traditional print, downloadable eBooks or streaming audiobooks, the OCPL offers thousands of titles accessible from your phone, tablet or computer. And if we don't have the specific title you're looking for, we may be able to borrow it for you through our Interlibrary Loan service, which is available for books and audiobooks.

At the OCPL, we're here to help you connect, learn, explore and grow. Visit us in person, explore our website at owenlib.org, give us a call at 812-829-3392 or stop by one of our bookmobile locations. You never know what you'll discover at the library.

In a continued effort to prioritize the safety of students and staff, Spencer-Owen Community Schools (S-OCS) is proud to announce the implementation of the new Safe Visitor Management System, known as KID Account. This innovative system is now in place at all school buildings within the district and is designed to manage all visitors, parents and students with the highest standards of safety and accountability.

The KID Account system brings several new features to S-OCS campuses, including instant national sex offender screenings, visitor badge printing and electronic hall passes. These updates will streamline the check-in process while significantly enhancing the district's ability to monitor who is in each building at all times.

As part of this new procedure, all parents and visitors will now be required to present a valid driver's license upon entering any S-OCS building. This identification will be scanned through the KID Account system to ensure the visitor passes the screening requirements. Individuals without a valid driver's license can be entered manually into the system. Upon approval, school administration will authorize access to the building and issue a visitor badge.

Superintendent Andy Cline and building leaders across the district are united in their commitment to protecting the school community.

"The safety of our students and staff is our top priority," Cline said. "Implementing this system allows us to provide a more secure environment without compromising the welcoming atmosphere we value so deeply."

To help make visits to our schools more convenient for families, parents and guardians may still complete a Volunteer Background Form for the current school year. Once approved, this form grants them automatic access and a preprinted visitor badge for quicker entry during future visits. This process is ideal for frequent visitors, such as parent volunteers and chaperones.

The district encourages all parents and guardians to participate in this background process as a way to support school safety while maintaining ease of access.

"We are committed to creating a secure, respectful and positive learning environment," said MCES Principal Matt Cazzell. "Our new visitor management system is just one of the many ways we are working to make that vision a reality."

If parents have any questions about the new system or need assistance with the background form, they are encouraged to contact their child's building principal directly:

• Owen Valley High School: Principal Robert Boltinghouse, 812-829-2266

• Owen Valley Middle School: Principal Tom Arthur, 812-829-2249

• McCormick's Creek Elementary School: Principal Matt Cazzell, 812-828-6000

• Spencer Elementary School: Principal Brittany Greene, 812-829-2253

• Gosport Elementary School: Principal Carol Watson, 812-879-4694

• Patricksburg Elementary School: Principal Dr. Mike Robison, 812-859-4525

Spencer-Owen Community Schools remains steadfast in its mission to foster a safe, supportive and enriching educational environment for all students. The introduction of the KID Account system marks another meaningful step forward in that commitment.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Booking information is provided by the Owen County Security Center. These are preliminary charges and may change as cases are processed through the circuit court system. To follow a court case, search the state's court records at http://mycase.in.gov. This information is public record. All people are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

7-1

James Watson, 62, Indianapolis, preliminary charge of intimidation. Arrested by Owen County Sheriff's Department (OCSD) Deputy Tony Stevens.

Alice Ondrovich, 61, Poland, IN, preliminary charge of driving while suspended with a prior charge. OCSD Deputy Jordan Hardey was the arresting officer.

Amanda Mayfield, 35, Indianapolis, preliminary charges of probation violation and theft. Arrested by Spencer Police Department (SPD) officer EJ Westgate.

Charles Wiley, 35, Solsberry, preliminary charge of theft. OCSD Deputy Jordan Hardey was the arresting officer.

7-2

James Greene, 42, Spencer, preliminary charge of auto theft. Arrested by OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller.

7-3

Daniel Johnson, 74, Quincy, preliminary charge of invasion of privacy. OCSD Deputy Riley Pardue was the arresting officer.

7-4

Carrie Everroad, 43, Ellettsville, preliminary charge of driving while suspended with a prior charge. Arrested by SPD officer Ben Muncie.

7-9

Christopher Johnson, 47, Poland, IN, preliminary charges of resisting law enforcement, criminal mischief, and probation violation. OCSD Major William Snodgrass was the arresting officer.

Walter Wittman, Jr., 41, Spencer, preliminary charges of probation violation and possession of methamphetamine. Arrested by OCSD K9 Deputy Charles Hallam.

Matthew Crichfield, 40, Terre Haute, preliminary charge of driving while suspended with a prior charge. SPD officer Bryce Brock was the arresting officer.

Tristan Strausburg, 29, Greenwood, preliminary charges of operating while intoxicated endangering a person, and refusal of chemical test. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Cory Poland.

7-10

Bradley Mackey, 52, Poland, IN, preliminary charges of possession of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of a syringe, possession of paraphernalia, and possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia. OCSD Deputy Cory Poland was the arresting officer.

Allan Clark, 36, Spencer, preliminary charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated endangering a person, and probation violation. Arrested by SPD officer Bryce Brock.

Charles Atkinson, 42, Poland, IN, preliminary charges of probation violation and resisting law enforcement (two counts). OCSD Sergeant Torrey Wallace was the arresting officer.

7-14

Peggy Whitlow, 67, Bowling Green, preliminary charge of operating while intoxicated. Arrested by OCSD Deputy William Browne.

7-15

Travis Sanders, 58, Poland, IN, preliminary charge of possession of methamphetamine. OCSD Deputy Brennan Clark was the arresting officer.

Brayden Pemberton, 22, Lyons, IN, preliminary charges of probation violation and possession of methamphetamine. Arrested by SPD officer EJ Westgate.

7-17

Keith Wiley, 38, Spencer, preliminary charge of possession of a narcotic drug. OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller was the arresting officer.

Ashley Hodge, 31, Spencer, preliminary charges of public intoxication and failure to appear. OCSD Deputy Jordan Hardey was the arresting officer.

7-18

Joshua Sims, 43, Cloverdale, preliminary charge of operating a motor boat while intoxicated. Arrested by Indiana Conservation Officer Patrick Labhart.

7-20

Wendell Hart, 57, Spencer, preliminary charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance, and unlawful possession of a syringe. OCSD K9 Deputy Charles Hallam was the arresting officer.

Amanda Whelchel, 40, Quincy, preliminary charges of resisting law enforcement, criminal mischief, residential entry, and intimidation. OCSD Lieutenant Clint Wampler was the arresting officer.

7-21

Teresa Jacobs, 40, Bloomington, preliminary charges of theft, possession of methamphetamine, and failure to appear. Arrested by OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller.

7-22

Michael Zook, 41, Terre Haute, preliminary charges of driving while suspended, failure to appear, and auto theft. SPD officer Bryce Brock was the arresting officer.

Rebecca Ditto, 33, Terre Haute, preliminary charges of failure to appear and driving while suspended with a prior charge. Arrested by SPD officer Bryce Brock.

Tandy Rardon, 59, Spencer, preliminary charges of domestic battery and sexual battery. SPD officer Bryce Brock was the arresting officer.

7-23

Walter Wittman, Jr., 41, Spencer, preliminary charges of criminal recklessness, leaving the scene of an accident, and criminal mischief. Arrested by SPD officer Seth Givans.

7-24

Quintin Monnett, 26, Brazil, preliminary charges of intimidation and probation violation. OCSD Major William Snodgrass was the arresting officer.

7-26

Bradley Sheese, 56, Spencer, preliminary charges of possession of methamphetamine, probation violation, and possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Elijah Volrich.

7-28

Stephanie Deviese, 40, Clinton, IN, preliminary charges of false identity statement, possession of paraphernalia, driving while suspended with a prior charge, and possession of methamphetamine. OCSD Deputy Cory Poland was the arresting officer.

Steven Roache, 32, Freedom, preliminary charge of domestic battery. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Riley Pardue.

7-29

Athena Skiddle, 46, Spencer, preliminary charge of criminal mischief. SPD officer Bryce Brock was the arresting officer.

Jesse-Lee Williams, Sr., 44, Spencer, preliminary charges of criminal recklessness, resisting law enforcement, and operating while intoxicated. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Stephen DeWitt II.

Dustin Richardson, 41, Freedom, preliminary charge of intimidation. OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller was the arresting officer.

The following marriage licenses were issued in the month of July. Please note that this information is based on the applications. Marriage licenses are valid for 60 days from when they are issued, and the information below does not reflect whether or not the two individuals followed through with a marriage or if the signed marriage license was returned to the Owen County Clerk's office.

7-1

Patrycja Kuczynski (age 28) & Jesus Alfonso Flores (age 29)
Shawna M. Hammond (age 25) & Aaron G. Mangin (age 26)

7-3

Holly Grace Edwards (age 24) & Gabriel Alejandro Acevedo Garcia (age 37)
Isaiah Lee Carpenter (age 21) & Hannah Elizabeth Comte (age 22)

7-11

Emily J. Tucker (age 22) & Kain M. Brown (age 22)

7-14

Hanna Kay Martin (age 51) & Justin Ashley Reppert (age 50)

7-15

Jesse Michael Ranard (age 33) & Cora Elizabeth Taylor (age 27)

7-18

Jacob Patrick Dowell (age 24) & Hailey Marie Perry (age 20)

7-21

Megan Marie Locke (age 21) & Steve Allen Arms, Jr. (age 34)

The following dissolutions of marriages were filed during the month of July in Owen County Circuit Court 2.

7-3

Katelyn B. Mills & Davinder Singh

7-8

Travis Newport & Amber Ellis

7-9

David Rigney & Monica Rigney

7-23

Christina Buffington & Johnnie D. Buffington, Jr.

The Owen County 4-H Council is seeking interested volunteers who would like to join the council starting in October.

The 4-H Council is a nonprofit, volunteer-based organization that supports and enhances the 4-H youth development program. Council members serve a three-year term and meet monthly to plan, discuss and oversee local 4-H activities and initiatives. To be eligible, interested individuals must become registered 4-H volunteers, which includes completing a background check and required training through Purdue University.

Council members typically dedicate between three to 15 hours per month, contributing their time and talents to help shape meaningful experiences for 4-H youth. Responsibilities within the Council focus on specific efforts such as organizing the Scholarship Auction, fundraising for awards and supporting various events throughout the year.

The Council meets from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on the third Monday of each month.

Those interested should contact Cassie Linville at the Purdue Extension-Owen County office, located at 180 S. Washington St., Spencer. Linville can be reached via email at cassel@purdue.edu or by phone at 812-829-5020.

Barron E. Barnett, 76, of Poland, Indiana passed away at his home on Monday, July 14, 2025. He was born May 16, 1949, in Seymour, Indiana to Eugene R. Barnett and Alta Wolka Barnett. Barron proudly served his country in the United States Army. He was a 1967 graduate of Arlington High School in Indianapolis. Later, he attended Ivy Tech earning an associate's degree.

Barron went on to work at the Chrysler Corporation, RCA Manufacturing, Switzer Engineering, Mosier Safe Securities, and Rolls-Royce Manufacturing where he spent 31 years. He was also the Jackson Township Trustee in Owen County for two years.

Barron was an active member of Elks Greencastle, IN; also an active member of American Legion; active with Moose Lodge in Greencastle, IN; active with Amateur Radio Club in Spencer, IN; and was the president of Cataract Lake Area Crime Watch. Barron was also very much involved in the Gen-Con gaming (World Plan Games) gathering at the Indianapolis Convention Center.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 28 years, Martha Loker Barnett; his children, Atlanta Visker (Jamie) and Vaughn Barnett; grandchildren, Xander Visker and Riley Visker; one niece; and two nephews. Barron was preceded in death by his parents and brother Willard Barnett.

Cremation was entrusted to Samaritan Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made to samaritanfunerals.com.

July is typically the month when Hoosiers experience the hottest weather. And with soaring temperatures closing out this July, Duke Energy has tips to help you take control of your energy use while keeping you and your family cool.

Tips to save energy and money

Set your thermostat to the highest comfortable setting. Even a couple of degrees can help save energy and money. Keep in mind: Your system will run longer – using more energy – the hotter it is outside even if your thermostat setting never changes.

Use cooler water for washing clothes. Switching your temperature setting from hot to warm can cut a laundry load's energy use in half.

Run heat-producing appliances during cooler morning hours for additional savings.

Close curtains and blinds on the sunny side of your home to help prevent the sun from heating your home.

Operate ceiling fans in a counterclockwise direction in the summer, which pushes cooler air back down into the room.

Savings programs and incentives

Get a free home energy assessment. Duke Energy customers receive free energy efficiency products, customized usage report, low-cost tips and expert recommendations to help them see energy savings by signing up for our free Home Energy House Call.

Need an upgrade? Customers can take advantage of rebates for equipment like HVAC systems, hot water heaters and pool pumps as well as upgrades like attic insulation through our Smart $aver program.

Get paid for shifting energy use. Customers can receive a credit on their bill for automatically shifting their energy use to times when demand for energy is lower. Enroll your smart thermostat in our Power Manager® program.

Payment assistance

Interest-free installment payment plans can help customers who need flexibility with paying their energy bills.

Visit our Special Assistance page for more information.

For more ways to save, visit duke-energy.com/SummerSavings.

About Duke Energy Indiana

Duke Energy Indiana, a subsidiary of Duke Energy, provides about 6,300 megawatts of owned electric capacity to approximately 920,000 customers in a 23,000-square-mile service area, making it Indiana's largest electric supplier.

Routine food inspections were conducted by the Owen County Health Department during the month of July 2025. Reported below are the critical and non-critical comments left for these establishments:

7-7

Arepa Burger, food truck, at 2025 Owen County Fair. No violations.

Carlson Concessions, food truck, at 2025 Owen County Fair. No violations.

Dottie's Cinnamon Rolls, food truck, at 2025 Owen County Fair. No violations.

Super Twist Ice Cream, food truck, at 2025 Owen County Fair. No violations.

Jay's Kitchen, food truck, at 2025 Owen County Fair. No violations.

Outlaw BBQ, food truck, at 2025 Owen County Fair. No violations.

Serena's Food Hut, food truck, at 2025 Owen County Fair. No violations.

Angel's Cup of Heaven, food truck, at 2025 Owen County Fair. No violations.

Hoosier Mama Cookin, food truck, at 2025 Owen County Fair. No violations

7-23

Sweet Valley Ice Cream, food truck. No violations.

As summer winds down and pencils get sharpened, it's time to shift from popsicles to the pool to lunchboxes that will energize the school year whether kindergarten or middle school, they're virtually the same: they need fuel to stay focused and energized. And what better way to start the school year off right than with the kind of nutritious and easy-to-pack lunch ideas? A note to consider lunches that reinforce self-esteem and strengthen your connection – even when you're apart – while health professionals say three things offer "positive reinforcement," reinforcing resilience and emotional well-being.

Whether it's a note or mantra or a simple "I love you!" notes – stuck on colorful paper or a napkin – goes a long way and a sense of belonging and at home.

Build a better lunchbox with MyPlate

Craft your own Lunchables with tasty, nutritious veggies, protein, grains and dairy.

Veggies: green, fresh fruit, veggies, protein, grains and dairy. Snacks: grapes, carrot sticks, grapes, yogurt, cheese and whole-grain crackers make a balanced and playful meal.

Make your own Lunchables

Craft your own lunchbox favorites. Try healthy lunchbox snacks that don't require a cooking. And a sense of belonging roasted chickpeas.

- Assortment of veggies: Spooky Chickpeas – sesame oil, roasted chickpeas, pasta, brown rice

- Fruits like golden apples, grapes, carrots, cucumber

- Add-Ons: Hummus, Whole Grains: Whole wheat bread, pitas, tortillas, pasta, brown rice pastax, brown rice

- Apricot and Veggie Sticks – a fiber-rich, kid-friendly snack

- Hummus and Veggie

- Plan ahead, stress less

Portion kids with your kids to help prep. Keep foods fresh while teaching kids care. Make sure you pack a lunch does more than just satisfy hunger – it fuels learning, boosts energy and sends a powerful message: You are cared for. With a mix of wholesome foods and just feeding your child's body – you're raising their heart and mind, too.

As we head into a new school year, let's remember that what we can shape more than just a student's day – it can help a form of healthy lifestyle and lasting memories. Happy year ahead!

The Indiana Uplands READI Steering Committee, Regional Opportunity Initiatives (ROI), and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) have announced that $4,093,000 in Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) funding has been committed to four projects in the Indiana Uplands region. These projects will improve the region by accelerating the expansion of housing, childcare, and healthcare facilities.

"These four projects exemplify the transformative outcomes envisioned through the Indiana Uplands' READI initiative," said Tina Peterson, President and CEO of Regional Opportunity Initiatives (ROI). "By expanding workforce housing, childcare, and healthcare capacity, we are enhancing the community conditions necessary for attracting new industry expansions, jobs, and talent. Together with our previously announced READI 2.0 investments, these initiatives contribute to the Indiana Uplands' entire READI 1.0 & 2.0 portfolio of more than 30 projects and programs strategically selected to build a stronger workforce, a more resilient regional economy, and attractive communities to live, work, play, and invest."

Poplar Ridge Apartments, Huntingburg (Dubois County)

Premier Property Management Kerstiens Realty LLC is investing $16,041,000 to develop a new market-rate, multifamily community that will support local industry and attract new employees. With a total of 126 high-efficiency units, the community will feature 24 one-bedroom apartments, 48 two-bedroom, 24 three-bedroom, and 36 two-bedroom townhomes with garages. In addition to securing a $1,594,000 tax abatement from the City of Huntingburg, this project was awarded a $1,493,000 READI 2.0 allocation. READI funds will be used to purchase the materials and labor associated with the infrastructure on this project.

Tower Subdivision, Leavenworth (Crawford County)

A $12,530,214.20 public-private partnership between Cook Group, the Crawford County Economic Development Corporation, the Town of Leavenworth, and the Community Foundation of Crawford County will support the development of a 57-unit single-family subdivision. Near an Industrial Park and Interstate 64, this project has been awarded a $1,850,000 READI 2.0 allocation. Cook Group, the parent company of Cook Medical and French Lick Resorts, will act as developer for the project, funding the construction of homes, while local and READI funds will be used to prepare the site, build roads, and provide water and sewer. Completed homes will be sold below market value to attract new Crawford County residents, regional workforce talent, young families, and first-time homebuyers.

Healing Horizons / Daviess Community Hospital, Washington (Daviess County)

Daviess County, Daviess County Hospital, and the Daviess Community Hospital Foundation will join in a public-private partnership for a $5,057,995.96 in a public-private partnership to will expand the hospital's emergency department and upgrade its radiology services with advanced diagnostic capabilities. A total of $500,000 in READI 2.0 funds has been allocated for construction costs and medical equipment.

Early Education Center, Nashville (Brown County)

In addition to a $250,000 READI 2.0 allocation, Brown County Schools is leveraging $836,151 in grant funding from Early Learning Indiana, Brown County Community Foundation, and the Indiana Department of Education's Explore. Engage. Experience (3e) program to renovate its Early Education Center with a new toddler classroom, food prep area, two toilet rooms, and a health clinic area. This renovation will add 10 toddler seats and enable the center to serve eight infants. This project expands essential childcare capacity in a county with limited facilities, while also enabling Brown County High School students in the Early Childhood Education by Tech Dual Credit program to graduate with a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and the skills to care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.

Indiana's $1.25 billion READI program is bringing vibrancy to regions across the state to accelerate shovel-ready projects and programs that will transform Hoosier communities, attract talent, and improve quality of life. READI, which has been recognized for its success, encourages regional collaboration and data-driven, long-term planning that will benefit current and future residents for generations to come. The state's $1 billion investment, which secured additional funding awarded by the Lilly Endowment, is expected to attract a minimum 4:1 match of local public and private, nonprofit funding, yielding at least $3 billion invested across all 92 counties to enhance Indiana's quality of life, quality of place, and quality of opportunity.

ROI and a regional steering committee manage $60 million in READI 1.0 and 2.0 matching funds awarded to the Indiana Uplands region to grow the region's capacity as a national hub for innovation, develop and attract in-demand talent; advance housing, infrastructure, and place-based assets; and enhance the region's unique cultural and artistic, physical and livable amenities. In addition to these new READI program announcements, the Indiana Uplands READI region previously announced $9.5 million in READI 2.0 funding for three regional anchor projects: Simtra BioPharma Expansion (Bloomington), Indiana University Microelectronics (ME) Core Facility (Bloomington), and The Regional Wellness Center (Jasper).

A total of 27 projects and programs were awarded READI 1.0 funding in the Indiana Uplands region. For more information, announcements, and Indiana Uplands READI project updates, visit: regionalopportunityinc.org/readi/

Learn more at IndianaREADI.com.

About Regional Opportunity Initiatives

Regional Opportunity Initiatives (ROI) is a nonprofit organization with a mission to advance economic and community prosperity in the 11 counties of the Indiana Uplands (Brown, Crawford, Daviess, Dubois, Greene, Lawrence, Martin, Monroe, Orange, Owen, and Washington counties). ROI is growing potential and possibility through a focus on advanced industry sectors, regionalism, transformative school and workforce redesign, and placemaking strategies. Learn more at regionalopportunityinc.org/

About the Indiana Uplands

The Indiana Uplands is an 11-county region encompassing Brown, Crawford, Daviess, Dubois, Greene, Lawrence, Martin, Monroe, Orange, Owen and Washington counties. In a region replete with talent and resources, it is home to Naval Support Activity Crane, the third-largest Naval installation in the world; the number one small Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) for specialized employment in the medical devices and equipment industry, 2nd in the pharmaceuticals category; and an automotive and heavy manufacturing cluster that has grown by more than 93 percent since 2012. Uplanders—from students to visionaries, artisans to entrepreneurs— call our 11 counties home. Find your place to thrive at inuplands.org/

The Indiana Coalition for Open Government will initiate a help line for Hoosiers, media members and government officials to answer questions about public access in the state.

ICOG hopes the office will help new Public Access Counselor Jennifer Ruby Gee with the current backlog of advisory and informal opinion requests, along with having the time to hire adequate staff to better serve the public. The action is a response to media reports that Hoosiers who have reached out to the PAC, have not received a response or the response has been very slow.

"If we can answer half the questions the PAC normally gets, that will free time to get the office caught up so that Hoosiers who need formal opinions can receive them from her office in a timely manner," said ICOG president Zachary Baiel.

Anyone is welcome to contact the 260-ASK-ICOG (260-275-4264) help line with a question concerning the application of the Open Door Law or Access to Public Records Act, the two statutes that are the foundation of Indiana's government transparency statutes. Hoosiers with more by visiting our help line page at indianacog.org/help.

The ICOG board includes several members with decades of experience in utilizing the Open Door Law and Access to Public Records Act to monitor actions of state and local government units. While answers to questions from the help line can't be considered legal advice, we believe we can help direct those who contact us understand their rights and the obligations of government units under the access laws.

The Indiana Coalition for Open Government is a charitable 501(c)(3) organization created to help Hoosiers advocate for government transparency. Learn more at indianacog.org/.

Hoosiers, whose questions require an informal or formal opinion from the PAC, will be referred to that state office, but we expect many queries can be satisfactorily answered through the help line.

ICOG intends to operate the help line for approximately 90 days. It will then assess the continuing need for such a public resource. Depending upon the state's resourcing of the PAC, ICOG could extend this service.

Welcome back, Spencer-Owen Families!

As the summer days begin to wind down, we are filled with excitement and anticipation for the start of the 2025-2026 school year at Spencer-Owen Community Schools. Our halls will once again echo with laughter, learning and the energy that only the start of a new school year can bring. We are proud to welcome back our students, staff and families on Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025.

Spencer-Owen Community Schools serve as the heart of our rural community, where four elementary schools, one middle school and one high school come together to educate, support and inspire our young people. Whether your child is stepping into kindergarten for the first time, entering their final year of high school or anywhere in between, we are committed to providing a safe, enriching environment for every student.

Over the summer, our dedicated staff have been preparing classrooms, planning exciting lessons and ensuring our buildings are ready for learning. We're also continuing to focus on academic growth, improvement to school facilities and fostering strong connections between school and home.

This year, we look forward to continuing the strong traditions of Spencer-Owen while embracing new opportunities for growth and innovation. We encourage families to stay connected, get involved and partner with us throughout the school year. Together, we can help every student thrive.

On behalf of the entire Spencer-Owen Community Schools team, we wish everyone a successful, joyful, and inspiring school year.

We can't wait to see you on Aug. 6!

Respectfully,
Andy Cline,
Superintendent
Spencer-Owen Community Schools

Students at Owen Valley High School recently raised $45,000 to support trail restoration efforts at McCormick's Creek State Park.

After serious tornado damage to the facilities and trails at the park in March 2023, a bridge on Trail 5 remained closed, limiting access to the full length of the highly popular path to Wolf Cave.

Members of the school's Students for the Planet group, who grew up making memories hiking Trail 5 through Wolf Cave Nature Preserve, were determined to restore use of the trail by raising funds to replace the structure. The group formed "Patriots for the Park" and publicized their campaign.

Their fundraising efforts, along with contributions from the Indiana Parks Alliance and the Friends of McCormick's Creek State Park, allowed them to qualify for a matching gift from the Owen County Community Foundation.

"Patriots for the Park is deeply appreciative of every organization that came alongside us to help us meet our goal," remarked Amy Lariman, Spencer-Owen Media Specialist and Students for the Planet advisor. "The students learned many valuable skills, including marketing, graphic and web design, creating and selling products, making and meeting timelines and communicating a vision. Working with this group will always be one of the most rewarding of my career in education."

"We're incredibly proud of these student leaders and their commitment to preserving one of our community's most treasured places," said Janet Rummel, President & CEO of the Owen County Community Foundation. "Their efforts demonstrate the power of youth-driven philanthropy, and we were honored to match their fundraising to help restore access to the natural beauty of McCormick's Creek State Park."

Champak Patel, a retired Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) engineer, donated his time and worked with Indiana State Parks' landscape architect Caryn Atkinson to significantly reduce the project cost by designing the new bridge. Strauser Construction will begin work on the bridge soon.

DNR Division of State Parks' trail funding jump-started the project, and the dollars raised by Patriots for the Park are reimbursing those expenses. Using this donation, which will go to the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation (IndianaNRF.org), the park will be able to move forward with replacing other damaged trail structures.

"It is both humbling and encouraging to see how much these high school students and the community support McCormick's Creek," said property manager Dwight Brooks. "Our partners help us make the park a great place for making memories, and the future of philanthropy and McCormick's Creek are in good hands."

See the list of all donors to the project at patriotsforthepark.wixsite.com/patriots-for-the-par. Learn about the Indiana Parks Alliance at indianaparksalliance.org and about the Friends of McCormick's Creek at friendsofmccormickscreek.org.

Explore the work of the Owen County Community Foundation at owencountycf.org.

More information is available about the impacts of the tornado and recovery at on.IN.gov/McCormicks-recovery.

Dear Parents, Guardians and Students,

Welcome back! I hope this letter finds you rested, recharged and ready for an exciting new school year. As your superintendent, it is both an honor and a privilege to extend a warm welcome to all our returning families, as well as a special greeting to those joining our school community for the first time. We are excited to begin this new chapter together, filled with promise, growth and shared success.

This year, our focus remains on academic excellence, student well-being and building a strong, supportive environment for every learner. Our dedicated educators and staff have been working diligently over the summer to prepare engaging lessons, meaningful programs and safe, welcoming classrooms. We are committed to nurturing not only academic success but also the character and confidence of our students, ensuring they are equipped for the future.

We recognize the essential role families play in our shared mission, Success for Everyone! Your involvement, encouragement and communication with school staff are critical to student success. Throughout the year, we will offer opportunities to stay connected, whether through parent-teacher conferences, family events, volunteer opportunities or school newsletters. Together, we can build a school culture rooted in respect, collaboration and high expectations.

Thank you for entrusting us with your child's education. As we begin this school year, let us move forward with optimism and a renewed sense of purpose. We are truly excited to see what we will accomplish together!

Sincerely,
Greg Linton
Superintendent
Cloverdale Community School Corporation

With the help of a grant from the Indiana Arts Commission, the Sweet Owen Arts Commission (SOAC) has formed to promote and advocate for artists in the Owen County area.

The new arts group was created after the Indiana Arts Commission reached out to the Owen County Chamber of Commerce asking for volunteers to participate in the Creative Convergence gathering in Lebanon, Indiana and hosted by Ball State University. After a two-day session, the volunteers started working to officially create an arts commission for the county and to use input from the artists on a future public works project.

After a series of meetings, including a public meeting on Jan. 29 and concluding with a public meeting on July 16, SOAC received the final design drawings for an amphitheater project. If Spencer is awarded a grant to renovate Cooper Commons, the amphitheater may be part of it, thanks to the input of local artists.

In addition, SOAC is working with local artists on a crosswalk project in Spencer. On Oct. 25, SOAC will host Arts in the Park in Cooper Commons.

Fortunately, Owen County is home to strong arts communities, like the Owen County Civic Theatre. SOAC will work in coordination with these groups as well as local artists. Though not a part of government, SOAC will communicate with elected officials on behalf of the arts community.

SOAC was granted not-for-profit 501(c)(3) status in April. The website sweetowenarts.org has more information about the organization and several artists who work in Owen County.

With confirmed cases of the highly fatal cat disease cytauxzoonosis, better known as bobcat fever, in the counties surrounding Owen County, animal health workers are asking cat, and all pet owners, to be mindful.

Bobcat Fever is a tick-borne illness primarily caused by Lone Star and American Dog ticks.

These ticks, after having a blood meal from a bobcat, the natural host species for the parasite that causes the disease and gives the disease its name, can pick up and transmit the parasite to domestic cats, Denise Derrer, Public Information Director of the Indiana State Board of Animal Health (BOAH), said via email.

Though affected bobcats, generally, don't get ill from the parasite, the disease can be fatal for domestic cats.

Clinical signs start to develop within five to 14 days after the bite. Symptoms to look out for are lethargy, inappetence, fever, difficulty breathing, anemia, jaundice and seizures. Affected cats can also have enlarged lymph nodes, spleen and/or liver, Derrer said via email.

Without medical intervention, death can result two to three days after the fever presents.

Though there are confirmed cases in Monroe, Greene and Martin counties, Derrer said it's challenging to track where the disease is since bobcat fever is not reportable to the BOAH.

The cases that are confirmed were reported directly from private veterinarians and labs that do the testing, but it is not mandatory for them to report their findings to the BOAH, Derrer said.

"Pet owners need to assume it's out there and able to spread, because ticks are found statewide," Derrer said via email.

Derrer recommends pet owners use preventive measures for their cats, such as keeping them indoors and using flea and tick medication.

Dr. Grant Minnemeyer of Ridgeline Veterinary Services located in Spencer also strongly recommends using preventive measures as well, due to how fatal and expensive treating the disease can be.

He recommends using monthly flea and tick medication, along with keeping cats indoors.

"The hard part is, most of these cats by the time they're getting to the vet clinic are already significantly affected," Dr. Minnemeyer said. "[They've had a] severe fever. They've had a reduced appetite for a while … and normally don't survive that initial 24- to 48-hour period. The cats that do survive, it's a pretty intense treatment."

When it comes to treating affected cats, a feeding tube filled with expensive antimalarial medication is used. Of the cats that are treated, there is a mortality rate of 50 percent.

"Treatment is difficult, to say the least, and this is all from a lot of experience, like in Oklahoma and Missouri, they've all had it for a lot longer than we have in Indiana," Dr. Minnemeyer said. "It's a newer thing here, so we're all kind of going through the process of trying to know what to do when we see [a] suspect case, but prevention is far and away the way to go because treatment costs are significant."

Due to the costs and it being an intensive treatment, Ridgeline Veterinary Services, though they haven't had confirmed cases of bobcat fever, plan to transfer the care of affected cats to the 24/7 internal medicine clinics that have access to the drugs needed.

Dogs and other species besides cats are not known to get the disease, Derrer said. With that, Dr. Minnemeyer said, no matter the animal, it's important to keep up on flea and tick medication, especially with him noticing tick-borne illnesses getting worse.

"In regards to Lyme disease in dogs and all of these tick diseases [they] continue to get worse in this part of Indiana," he said. "Check your animals for ticks. Keep them on preventions. Check yourself for ticks."

Infections of bobcat fever, due to it being a seasonal infection, start in March and they're not expected to end until September, according to Oklahoma State University.

The latest postponement in the pending murder trial for Quentin Lamont Porter, Jr., accused of the July 2024 shooting death of 23-year-old Malik Darea Sims, pushes the projected start date to early 2026.

Although originally set to get underway on Jan. 21, the trial was delayed until May 12 of this year. On May 5, however, a hearing was held in the Owen County Circuit Court I on a motion for continuance filed by the defense. Arguments from both sides were heard, with the court ultimately resetting the start date to July 21.

A series of subpoenas/summons were filed on July 9 and July 10 in preparation for the Aug. 4 start date, however, the trial start was again cancelled on and rescheduled for Jan. 20, 2026 beginning at 9 a.m. in Owen County Circuit Court I.

Porter remains in custody without bond at the Owen County Security Center pending the upcoming trial by jury. The court has allotted eight days for the trial, excluding Saturday and Sunday.

More in-depth coverage of the case was published in the August 2024 issue of The Owen News. The full article can be accessed on our website.

Porter did appear in the Owen Circuit Court I on May 12 and 13 alongside his attorney Jacob Fish to face related but separate charges of escape and battery against a public safety official.

Jury selection in this case began and concluded on day one of the two-day trial, followed by the State of Indiana, represented by county prosecutor Benjamin Kim, presenting evidence and witnesses before resting its case. Not having adequate time to conclude the trial in a single day, the jury was recessed until the following day when Porter was ultimately found guilty on both felony counts.

A notice of appeal was received by the court on July 11.

The annual Owen County budget hearings are just around the corner, with three days scheduled to plan the county's budget for 2026.

The hearings are scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 27 through Friday, Aug. 29, starting at 8 a.m. in the commissioner's room on the second floor of the Owen County Courthouse, located at 60 S. Main St., Spencer.

But this year, due to the passing of property tax relief elements in Senate Bill 1, the county will have to cut between $300,000 and $400,000 from their budget, and the exact impact of that

"Property taxes are a primary source of funding for local government units, including counties, cities and towns, townships, libraries and other special districts including fire districts and solid waste districts. Property taxes are administered and collected by local government officials," according to the Indiana Department of Local Government Finance (DLGF) website.

Council President Polly Chesser said that she still doesn't have an exact picture of what the impact will be for the county's budget, despite budgets being required to be submitted to DLGF by Oct. 1.

"I have been to at least two different state backed events to learn more about this and they basically got up and talked for 45 minutes trying to explain SEA (Senate Enrolled Act) 1 and at the end they pretty much said in both of them we really don't know what the impact is going to be," Chesser said. "That has given us a huge unknown to go into budget hearings."

County Councilman Anton Neff said that the Legislative Services Agency estimates that Owen County government stands to lose approximately $350,000 in revenue from property tax.

"Now other units of government, like the schools, townships, the library, that also get property tax, they'll also have a certain dollar amount of loss that is projected by that same group," Neff said.

The total tax impact in Owen County, which includes the other units of government, was estimated to be about $1 million during the last county council meeting.

"Now, whether or not that's accurate, whether or not that ends up being the actual amount once next year starts and property taxes are billed, etc, whether or not that's accurate, no idea. It is a starting point, though. It's what we have from the state," Neff said.

The council and the auditor's office are trying to use data from the assessor's office and previous properties that qualified for the homestead exemption to estimate the change in property taxes.

"Fortunately, the amount of the loss is not near what it originally would have been, and that would have been a tougher thing to adjust to. You're talking millions of dollars at that point. So definitely, in kind of the context, $350,000 is certainly better than what it could have been," Neff said.

In preparation of the loss in revenue, the council liaisons for the various departments have asked department heads to be conservative in their requests and try to hold to their current budgets as best as they can.

Neff was confident in the county's ability to make due with the loss in property tax revenue for 2026.

"I would generally tell folks we are so fortunate not to have any significant debt other than your typical vehicle loans and things like that. We don't have any major obligations that are active at the moment. Yes, we're working on a jail project, and that will involve debt, but we have earmarked money for that. So at the moment, we're fortunate there," Neff said. "We also have decent cash balances that have built up over the last couple of years, and so that allows us to help weather a storm or a challenge like this. So we would be in a much different negative situation if we had tapped out all of our debt and had low cash balances, and that is certainly not the case, and we're very thankful for that."

He also reiterated that the county has other revenue sources such as the motor vehicle fuel tax and income tax.

"There's a lot of moving parts. As we work through the process, more and more of those become clearer, more accurate," he said.

At this time, the council has no plans to levy additional taxes.

"The council did express or re-express its desire to work within our means, and I think that's something we need to honor," Neff said.

"None of us are in favor of piling another tax burden on our citizens when they're already stressed out as it is," Chesser added.

Chesser expressed disappointment in the quick changes to property tax that was made in this year's legislative session. She also expressed frustration by the notion from the state that counties would need to tighten spending.

"I understand not all counties are like our county. We are a very frugal council. We try not to blatantly spend money. We take it very seriously. It's not our money; it's the taxpayers money," she said. "I feel like it was rushed. I feel like it wasn't vetted well. I feel like there's so many unknowns, and it is so complicated that nobody really understands it fully, and they don't know what the impact is going to be."

She also was concerned that those that need the relief the most won't receive it, despite the impact it has on county governments.

"The problem is I think the average person is going to be very disappointed on how much they save because it's not going to amount to that much, but it is going to cumulatively impact the county governments." Chesser said.

If a property owner qualifies for the full amount of relief, they could save up to $300 on their annual property tax bill.

Chesser said that while it would have a drastic impact on Owen County, she's more in favor of providing direct relief to the elderly and those with the greatest need for relief.

"To me that is just, it's wrong. I mean, for an elderly person on a fixed income to lose their house to a tax sale because they can't afford their property taxes. That's just wrong," she said.

Neff encouraged citizens to attend the budget workshops in person or to watch them online.

"It is the one stop shop opportunity for the public to really learn and understand the various departments and issues that are facing county government, and the challenges we have to face, the problems we have to solve, the reasons why it costs so much for X or Y or Z," Neff said. "It is my favorite time of the year because of that, and I think that it's a golden opportunity. And we will encourage questions and would be happy to answer questions that people have."

The White River Poultry Club will host its 50th anniversary fall poultry show on Saturday, Aug. 30 at the Owen County Fairgrounds, 364 S. East St., in Spencer.

The open show will feature bantam, large fowl and waterfowl classes, with judging to get underway at 9 a.m. All birds will be judged by American Poultry Association (APA) and American Bantam Association (ABA) rules (whichever applies). Open show judges will include Lewis Cunningham and Matt Lhamon, both of Ohio, and Jason Branson of Indiana. Junior show judges had not been announced as of press time.

Show rules indicate a champion will be chosen regardless of the number of birds in a class, while Best of Show will be chosen from the Best Bantam, Best Large Fowl and Best Waterfowl.

Birds shown in the Junior Show, open to exhibitors ages five to 18, will not be permitted to show in the Open Show. Junior Show champions will compete for Best Bantam, Best Large Fowl and Best Waterfowl in the Junior Show.

Rogier Poultry Supplies will be on site with supplies for exhibition poultry and backyard flocks.

Entry fee is $5 per bird. Entries are due by Friday, Aug. 15. For complete rules or for more information, visit the White River Poultry Show page on Facebook or email emmyn74@gmail.com.

Spectators are welcome and parking is free, so make plans to attend and celebrate this golden anniversary event with the White River Poultry Club.

If there was an Owen County Commissioners, Owen County Council meeting or legislative breakfast, you were likely to see Barron Barnett.

And, you were likely to hear him speak up about a myriad of issues—taxes, regionalism, representation and more.

Barnett, who had become a staple at these sort of meetings, passed away suddenly earlier this month. He was the Jackson Township Trustee at the time of his passing.

During the July 17 commissioners meeting, the first government meeting since Barnett's passing, Sam Hobbs, president of the commissioners, asked for others to keep Barnett's wife Martha and his family in their prayers. He also took a moment to remember Barnett.

"Barron Barnett was very active, very active in the meetings. You've got to give Barron due diligence," Hobbs said. "That guy, he showed up to every meeting and always had something to say."

County Council President Polly Chesser also shared her appreciation for Barnett's level of engagement with local government. Chesser had spoken to Barnett earlier on the day of his passing.

"It was very sad the first commissioners meeting I went into and he wasn't there, and there was a big hole because he's always been so good about coming to all the council meetings and the commissioners meetings. He was very engaged. He took his township trustee position very seriously," Chesser said.

Chesser recalled many speeches that Barnett gave at the meetings, including one citing concerns of regionalism that could take away the voice of local residents.

"He was engaged, and that was very commendable," Chesser said.

After beginning to serve as Jackson Township Trustee, Barnett gave the far northwest part of Owen County a voice as decisions were being made.

"Owen County has lost a truly good one, far too soon. I had the pleasure of getting to know Barron well over the last year. Barron's exceptional management and innovative thinking as Jackson Township Trustee, and his dedication to the Republican Party left a lasting, positive impact," Owen County Republican Party Chair Kristi Risk said. "His caring demeanor and witty humor connected with many. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of thoughtful leadership and kindness will undoubtedly live on."

Risk said that details for a caucus to fill the Jackson Township Trustee seat will be posted on the party's Facebook page. Residents of Jackson Township that are interested in being considered for candidacy and are Republicans in good standing should contact Risk via email at ocgopchair@gmail.com or via text at 812-821-2490. Risk said all candidates will be vetted for party affiliation.

Barnett's friend Ernie DuFault, who also frequently attends government meetings, spoke about Barnett during the July 21 county council meeting.

"A lot of you in this audience know Barron Barnett, and you know his tenacity for making things happen. He was a strong advocate for the county, worked for the county for a long time in different positions," DuFault said. "He had a lot of drive, and he touched everybody, I think, in this room in one fashion or another. So, as my friend, he'll be dearly missed."

Veteran police officer Terry Sips was recently selected to serve as the next Chief of Police for the Spencer Police Department (SPD).

Sips, a 1986 graduate of Owen Valley High School and 20-year veteran of the United States Marine Corps, assumes the new role following the retirement of former police chief Richard Foutch.

The announcement was made during the July 7 meeting of the Spencer Town Council.

"We had four very good candidates (for the position)," explained council member Evan McKalip, noting all four of the candidates were current officers with the Spencer Police Department. "It was honestly a difficult decision – great candidates all around – and I truly appreciate the work each of you do."

Sips began his career with the SPD in December of 2006, forty years after his dad, Gary Sips, began his long tenure with the department in 1966.

The elder Sips retired from the SPD in 1992 after serving the community for 26 years, including 18 years in the same role his son recently assumed, making the pair the first known father-son duo to lead the department as chief of police.

"It's truly an honor. I grew up around the department and had always wanted to be a police officer," Sips said. "Tony Stevens was my mentor, Mike Hendricks and Joe Pettijohn were my firearms instructors, and Jim Witmer from the Bloomington Police Department was my physical tactics instructor. I've had some great officers, including my dad, help me along the way."

A graduate of the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA), Sips has furthered his law enforcement career by serving as a physical tactics instructor, taser instructor and pepper spray instructor. In June of 2024, he was promoted to the rank of sergeant, a position he held until his recent hiring as chief of police.

During his time at the ILEA, Sips was voted class president by his peers, gave the graduation speech and was selected as the Herman H. Freed Award recipient.

Established in 2004 and named in honor of Major Herman Freed, the first executive director of the law enforcement academy, the award is presented to a student who demonstrates the qualities of: Integrity, Loyalty, Ethics and Attitude. The basic class students determine the award winner by vote, though the top vote recipient must also meet the approval of the ILEA staff and must not have failed any academic or practical component of the basic course.

Sips will oversee a department of 10 full-time officers and seven reserve officers and has his sights set on increasing the SPD's use of advancements in information technology (IT) and communication systems, among other goals.

"The latest technological advancements will allow us to link with other departments and other agencies, both federal and state, to obtain a lot more information that will enable us to identify suspects, vehicles, stolen property and other things more quickly," Sips explained. "This doesn't necessarily replace other tried and true methods of police work, but it can help us be more efficient and aid in investigations. We want to keep up with current law enforcement trends."

While the overall crime rate in and around Spencer is nowhere near that of larger metropolitan areas, the SPD deals with almost daily instances of illegal drug offenses, domestic violence and property crimes such as theft.

"Unfortunately, domestic reports and property crime are the biggest issues we deal with locally, along with the meth and other drug offenses," Sips said.

Spencer's newest police chief hopes to use the experience he has gained from his years of military and law enforcement service to lead the next generation of officers in the department.

"We want our officers to be people of character and integrity; the kind of officers you would want to have protecting your family and your property," Sips said. "I believe we have that here, and I'm looking forward to leading this department and continuing to serve our citizens."

Sips and his wife, Shanel, make their home north of Spencer. The couple has five children between them and recently welcomed their first grandchild.

When I was a little girl, one of my favorite summer pastimes was to catch lightning bugs, better known as fireflies.

They are the small blinking insects that light up the night as they fly about. My friends and I would run around and catch them. We would then put them into an old mason jar with a lid on it. The lid had holes poked in the top for air circulation. It was like having a homemade flashlight.

At the end of the evening, when it was time for bed, the fireflies would be turned loose into the night air, dancing their way back to the darkness at hand.

The illumination part of the firefly is all rather scientific. To explain all the details would take all the fun out of it.

Fireflies aren't truly a fly, but rather a soft body beetle. The light is produced in special cells located near the end of their abdomen. A sort of chemical reaction takes place. The main purpose of the light is not for our entertainment but instead used to attract a mate. Obviously, it must work, though we often don't see the results – we just see the dance.

There are many different species of fireflies in Indiana. Each species has its own unique flash pattern. The best time to see them in Indiana is in the summer months of June and July. After that, their dancing time is winding down. They only have a lifespan of two months.

They're easy to locate. Some good places to find them are along the edge of the woods, in fields, meadows or in the yard.

One species of firefly is the official insect of Indiana. The Says Firefly, also called the Angle Candled firefly became the state's official insect when it was proclaimed so by Governor Eric Holcomb on March 23, 2018.

Fireflies are as much a part of summer as cookouts, corn on the cob and fireworks.

You could say it's nature's gentle firework display.

The poet, James Whitcomb Riley, wrote in one of his poems that, "Fireflies like golden seeds are sewn about the night."

Another poet, Robert Frost, perhaps penned it best in his poem, Fireflies in the Garden.

"Here come real stars to fill the upper skies. And here on earth come emulating flies. That though they never equal stars in size, And they were never really stars at heart. Achieve at times a very start. Only, of course, they can't sustain the part."

Fireflies fill the night air with their twinkles, like little stars, and give us a hint of the heavens. We should pause to enjoy the illumination, however brief. And even now, another generation of children are still awed by their charms.

Another mason jar has holes punched in its lid. And yet another child's imagination is stirred as they delight in the midsummer's night dance. The dance of the fireflies.

Enjoy the dance!
— Susan

One of the experiences of walking on MyPath is enjoying the wildflowers that display lovely blossoms along the way.

I can identify many of the wildflowers, but I frequently use the Seek app on my phone to help with identification. A lot of our Wednesday walkers can identify flowers or use other apps.

But this flower I'm looking at right now will not show up on my app. It is much larger than most flowers. And it is made of metal.

Several weeks ago, I was walking along the trail on a regular maintenance check. Another walker stopped me to talk about the trail and art. I met Thomas Maher, and several other local artists, a few weeks before, at a meeting of the new Sweet Owen Arts Commission. This new arts commission is an effort to gather and promote all types of arts in the community. It may be the topic of a future column.

On this day, Maher complimented the trail. And he suggested the addition of art along the trail would make the experience even better. I agreed. He explained that he recycles automobile and farm equipment into sculptures.

I'm a fan of art. But I also believe that not all art fits all circumstances. I started asking about his work. He shared several photos of machinery that he turned into flowers, birds and other things. Perfect. I shared my desire that the natural amenities remain the focus of MyPath. The art should work with nature, not overshadow.

Maher spent a day walking along the trail, evaluating locations and getting a feel for this project. Then we picked a day when I could meet him at the trailhead and help deliver the sculptures to their locations. As he described it, he wanted people to walk along the trail for a while, absorbing nature, before they encountered the first sculpture.

A flower greets visitors to the first major crossroads of the trail. In all, there are 12 sculptures along the trail. You may have to deliberately look for them to see them, and they blend in with the surroundings.

So far, the public response has been very positive. Some visitors have reported having a favorite sculpture. As Maher said, people, especially children, may have limited exposure to art. This is an opportunity for people to encounter art in a very approachable way, while they are enjoying the MyPath trail.

There may be more opportunities for artwork along MyPath. We already host the Owen County Public Library Trail Tale along the first part of the trail. The monthly children's stories are fun to read, and the book artwork is entertaining.

We have been in conversations about becoming a stop on the Enchanted Fairy Trail. We may bring poetry readings back to the fire ring at McCormick's Creek State Park.

There are many types of art and events that "fit" the trail. On MyPath, nature is the main show. The new sculptures by Thomas Maher, and future art, complement the natural display.

Kyle Hannon is the Project Manager for the MyPath Trail System. He has served in many community development and trail commission roles throughout the state. On many weekends, he serves as an Interpretive Specialist at McCormick's Creek State Park.

Why do we celebrate July 4th? On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence declared the 13 American colonies to be an independent nation. All rule and the monarchy were severed. Revolution! It took two wars to actually complete the task. The first anniversary of that day was in 1777 was celebrated with fireworks, parades and public readings of the Declaration of Independence. July 4th was first recognized as a federal holiday in 1870. Today, July 4th is still celebrated with fireworks and parades. I don't think anyone reads the Declaration of Independence as part of the celebration now. Fireworks are still an important part of the celebration.

Last night my slumber was postponed as a neighbor started their July celebration early. The sound of small firecrackers was accompanied by loud booms for over an hour. I did not see the sky lit up in flashes of color, so they had no rockets. July 4th is several days away as I write this. Maybe they are saving the rockets for later. I expect more of this before the actual holiday.

My father loved those big pyrotechnical displays. He made sure we attended several every year. The last time I saw him we attended a fireworks display. I remember the smile on his face lit up in the reflection of those exploding rockets. He passed away two weeks later. So still cherish that night.

What July 4th traditions do you have? I still like to attend firework shows. I often go with my sisters. It would be nice to share the experience.

Another tradition I like to observe is to have a ripe tomato hanging on the vine by July 4th. In the past, when I had space for a real garden, I often accomplished my goal. This year is a wash out, literally. We have had so much rain all of the things I am trying to grow are drowning. The basil seeds I planted in late April rotted. Planted a variety of herbs and vegetable seeds ate ready to bloom. No tomatoes yet. Growing everything in containers is not easy.

Another tradition in my family celebrates in July is berry picking. In the sweet back raspberries, they're almost gone. Blackberries are plentiful on the Ridge. Before we bought that property in the 1990s it was logged. The blackberry vines came in and flourished in the open spaces. They help hold the soil in place after logging and provide food and shelter for wildlife. A patch of briars is the devil to walk through, but they give a glorious bonus of sweet berries in mid-summer. Blackberries are a useful source of vitamins C, E and K. They also contain calcium and manganese, and they are not high in sugar content. If you go berry picking this week, be aware of the heat. Go early in the morning. You will avoid the heat and beat the birds to the berries. 'Til next time, Annie.

The Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF) awarded $51,810 in Community Investment Grants to 13 local organizations that work to meet community needs and improve the quality of life across Owen County. These flexible, strategic grants reflect OCCF's mission to create lasting, positive impact—now and for future generations.

Investment Grant recipients support eligible 501(c)(3) organizations, churches and government entities addressing high-priority community goals identified in OCCF's 2022-2025 Strategic Plan. This includes initiatives focused on financial stability and early education, wellness, access to food, information and basic community development needs.

"These grants support the best of Owen County—neighbors helping neighbors, organizations solving problems and communities working together," said Janet Rummel, President & CEO of OCCF. "We're proud to invest in projects that offer both immediate impact and long-term value."

2025 Community Investment Grant Recipients

Owen County Humane Society — Spay Neuter Assistance for Community Members. Received a $5,000 grant to offer financial assistance to low-income pet owners for spay/neuter services.

Owen County S.O.U.N.D.S. — Coal City S.O.U.N.D.S. Community Impact. Procured a $5,000 grant to expand their music education through instrument purchases, sheet music, accompanist piano lessons, and other services to help individuals and families stay cool during extreme heat.

Freedom Community Center — Upgraded Playground Equipment. Procured a $2,200 grant to replace aging playground equipment, creating a safer and more welcoming space for outdoor recreation.

Owen County Family YMCA — Upgrades. Acquired a $5,000 grant to enhance security with upgraded cameras and PA System, improve air conditioning for more than 36 members.

Owen County Boys and Girls Club — Salvation Community Township Volunteer Fire Department Furnace Replacement. Secured a $2,000 grant to replace the Freedom Firehouse, ensuring emergency readiness for 1,200 area residents.

Gosport Lodge Club — Gosport Town Park Revitalization Project. Obtained a $5,000 grant to install turf pavers and timber access gates in the Gosport Town Park as part of a broader revitalization effort.

Owen County Farmers' Market — Kids Club Program. Received a $1,010 grant to support Honor Guard services, holiday basket delivery, and a free Christmas dinner for families in need, especially those who have served in the military.

American Legion Paloff-Laurenster Post 141 — Coal City Community Support. Received a $1,010 grant to support Honor Guard services, holiday basket delivery, and a free Christmas dinner for families in need, especially those who have served in the military.

Owen County Fair — Grounds Improvement. Procured a $5,000 grant to expand this early literacy initiative, which begins free books monthly to Owen County children from birth to age five.

South Central Community Action Program — Owen County Beat the Heat 2025. Obtained a $5,000 grant to provide fans, A/C units, and repair services to help low-income residents stay cool during extreme heat.

Owen County S.O.U.N.D.S. — Coal City S.O.U.N.D.S. Community Impact. Procured a $5,000 grant to expand their music education through instrument purchases, sheet music, accompanist piano lessons, and other services to help individuals and families stay cool during extreme heat.

About OCCF Grant Opportunities

Community Investment Grants range from $1,001 to $5,000. Large Impact Grants of up to $30,000 support transformative projects, while Rapid Response Grants of up to $3,000 are available year-round to address urgent or time-sensitive donor support.

About OCCF

The Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF) is a public benefit foundation founded in 1994 as a resource to connect individuals with causes they support, enabling them to contribute toward broader Owen County! Since its founding, the OCCF has been able to grant more than $1.2 million to local students, area nonprofits and charitable organizations in our community. The OCCF is committed to enhancing the quality of life for Owen County and for generations to come. For more information on the scholarships awarded or how to begin your own philanthropic journey, please visit owencountycf.org or call 812-829-1725, or stop by our office located on the Courthouse Square at 60 E. Market St., Spencer.

Visit five 100-year-old Indiana State Parks to enjoy their new challenges to help celebrate the history of Indiana State Parks.

Parks with centennial challenges include McCormick's Creek State Park (est. 1916), Turkey Run State Park (est. 1916), Clifty Falls State Park (est. 1920), and Indiana Dunes State Park (est. 1925).

The challenges kick off the celebration of this year's 100th anniversary of Indiana Dunes State Park and Pokagon State Park. For a hundred years, these parks have provided northern Indiana with natural playgrounds and conservation of unique natural resources.

"We have developed these unique challenges at many parks because we provide opportunities for physical activity through hiking, biking, and canoeing," said Ginger Murphy, deputy director for Indiana State Parks. "We are happy to add these opportunities to lodgers to open a window into some of the history and resources that each park offers."

Each challenge explores the history of the respective park's natural resources, pre-park establishment and important historical structures and stories. Guests who complete a challenge can earn a unique sticker for that park. The instructions for each challenge can be found online at dnr.IN.gov/healthy.

An Owen County artist is sharing 12 sculptures with MYPath trail.

The sculptures have been on display since June 1 and can be seen by walking along the MYPath Riverfront Trail from its trailhead at 738 Potter St., Spencer.

Thomas Maher is the owner of Falling Leaf Metalworks where he specializes in recycling machinery from vehicles and farm equipment into sculptures of plants, animals and people.

"After I proposed displaying some of my artwork along the trail, I spent a lot of time walking the beautiful trail and determining the pieces that would fit the feel of the trail and the locations where they would look the best," Maher said.

"MYPath is in a wonderful natural setting, and I think Thomas' sculptures look great among the trees, bushes and wildflowers," said Kyle Hannon, MYPath project manager.

Maher began displaying recycled metal in 2020 after retiring from Rock Island in Spencer. He has lived in Owen County since 2001. Previously, he lived in San Francisco where he worked at Hunter's Point. On weekends, he also did paints and works in other arts, he began focusing on his recycled metal art after a chance visit to a local scrapyard while helping a neighbor recycle some old farm equipment.

People can see more of Maher's artwork with a studio tour and gallery visit by appointment only 812-925-8402.

SUBMITTED PHOTO.

Conservation organizations should put your financial resources to work on habitat. If you are a member of a non-profit, like the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF), then you expect your membership fees and additional donations to go towards the mission of the organization. In this case, NWTF in partnership with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), just south of Nevada on an Conservation Area Grassland Restoration Project, is now complete.

Conservation Area is located near Neosho in southwest Missouri, part of the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), just south of Nevada on an Army Base, used during World War I. Today, this conservation area covers 2,362 acres of mostly forested land with a couple hundred acres of established native warm-season grasses, 100 acres of crop fields and 600 acres just received an upgrade.

A special effort, called the Fort Crowder Conservation Area Grassland Restoration Project, is now complete. Conservation success has been delivered on 137 acres through the restoration of native warm-season grasses. This is the kind of work that we need to see more of if we want to seriously address the turkey decline. Creating more turkey habitat factors will require more than just completed at Fort Crowder Conservation Area is the proper response. Restoring quality nesting and brood rearing habitat is how you effectively make more turkeys. Without routine management, grasslands quickly transition into less productive areas, becoming brushier and/or overwhelmed by invasive species, drastically reducing their value for wildlife and recreation.

To begin the natives' restoration, the invasive trees, vines and woody vegetation had to be destroyed. Species like autumn olive and Bradford pear were removed. Some natives had to be beaten back a bit, too. Shrubs such as sumac, plum and buckbrush, though natural to the area, were suppressing grassland structure.

Using a bull-hog forestry mulcher, MDC crews moved down the undesirables and overgrown natives, to create space for native warm-season grasses and forbs to re-establish. Improving the grasslands habitat for wild turkeys, bobwhite quail, pollinators and many more native species.

After an aggressive herbicide was applied to control regrowth of invasives and woody sprouts. With tall invasives floating around today, grasslands do require careful work to maintain their integrity. Moving forward, the grasslands will be maintained naturally with frequent applications of prescribed fire. The 30 acres will be monitored for successful restoration of the desired native grasses.

Partnership Benefits

Grassland conservation has far-reaching benefits. Not only for the wildlife calling the impacted acres home, but for all of us who appreciate clean air and water. Quail habitat supports healthy wildlife populations, which enhances hunting, hiking, bird watching and more. Native species contribute to a healthier ecosystem for the world around us.

Grasslands are an imperiled habitat critical for turkey population success. Only fragments remain in the Midwest of native grasses and wildflowers. Grasslands are essential to the health of many ground-nesting birds, like the wild turkey. This crucial habitat is where turkeys nest and raise their poults.

Grassland conservation has far-reaching benefits. Not only for the wildlife calling the impacted acres home, but for all of us who appreciate clean air and water. Quail habitat supports healthy wildlife populations, which enhances hunting, hiking, bird watching and more. There is more than one reason why. Lack of habitat is a huge issue. With every subdivision or strip mall development, we lose critical wildlife habitat. Pesticides kill bugs and bugs are also a productive food source for a healthy turkey population is healthy turkey habitat, and that habitat means grasslands are a must. The Missouri NWTF State Chapter provided Super Fund dollars to assist with the cost of heavy machinery needed to complete the work.

See you on the trail.

For more Driftwood Outdoors, check out the podcast on www.driftwoodoutdoors.com or anywhere podcasts are streamed.

The 2025 winner of the original Ken Bucklew's drawing is Kathy Montique. Pictured are Bucklew, Montique, and Kim McCollum-Fraser, a representative from Delta Theta Tau Sorority, not Chi Spencer.

Bucklew donates a drawing every year for the sorority to raffle off.

SUBMITTED PHOTO.

EDITOR'S NOTE:
Booking information is provided by the Owen County Security Center. These are preliminary charges, and may change as cases are processed through the circuit court system. To follow a court case, search the state of court records at mycase.in.gov. This information is public record. All people are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

‍

June 2025 Bookings

6-4
Denise Helton, 39, Poland, IN, preliminary charge of driving while suspended with a prior charge. Owen County Sheriff's Department (OCSD) Jordan Hardey was the arresting officer.

Korey Taylor, 32, Bloomington, preliminary charge of writ of attachment. OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller was the arresting officer.

Dety Perez, 44, Indianapolis, preliminary charges of failure to appear, theft, possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia, cocaine or a narcotic drug. OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller was the arresting officer.

6-5
Darrick Freeman, 35, Spencer, preliminary charge of driving while suspended with a prior charge. Arrested by OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller.

6-5
Thomas Barnett, 58, Poland, IN, preliminary charges of failure to appear and driving while suspended with a prior charge. Arrested by OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller.

Ronnie Gibson, 59, Mooresville, preliminary charges of possession of methamphetamine and probation violation. OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller was the arresting officer.

Hubert Plummer, 59, Bloomfield, preliminary charge of criminal trespass. Arrested by Spencer Police Department (SPD) Officer Bryce Brock.

6-10
Michelle Robbins, 45, Poland, IN, preliminary charges of criminal mischief and two counts of invasion of privacy. OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller was the arresting officer.

Joshua Leitzman, 46, Gosport, preliminary charges of unlawful possession of a firearm by a domestic batterer, possession of a firearm by a serious felon, probation violation, and operating a motor vehicle after forfeiture of license for life. OCSD Major William Snodgrass was the arresting officer.

Sara Whitaker, 36, Spencer, preliminary charges for possession of a controlled substance and probation violation. Arrested by SPD Officer Bryce Brock.

6-14
Michael Vance, 34, Fillmore, preliminary charges of possession of methamphetamine and probation violation. OCSD Deputy Elijah Volrich was the arresting officer.

Aaron Schrock, 19, Spencer, preliminary charges of battery against a public safety official (three counts), resisting law enforcement, possession of paraphernalia, criminal mischief, disorderly conduct, intimidation, and possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia. Arrested by Indiana State Police Trooper Matt Portwood.

6-15
Joshua Stahl, 43, Spencer, preliminary charge of invasion of privacy. OCSD Deputy William Browne was the arresting officer.

6-16
John Natzke, 51, Chicago, Illinois, preliminary charges of criminal recklessness while operating a vehicle while intoxicated endangering a person, operating with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .15 or more, and operating while intoxicated endangering a person. Arrested by OCSD Major William Snodgrass.

John Todd, 35, Spencer, preliminary charges of battery and intimidation. OCSD Deputy John Lower II was the arresting officer.

6-17
Michael Gates II, 42, Terre Haute, preliminary charge of writ of attachment. Arrested by OCSD Major William Snodgrass.

Elijah Haldeman, 36, Sullivan, preliminary charges of probation violation and possession of a narcotic drug. OCSD Lieutenant Clint Wampler was the arresting officer.

Stefan Snapp, 45, Whiteland, preliminary charges of unauthorized entry of a motor vehicle and auto theft. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Jordan Hardey.

6-18
Regina Deckard, 42, Worthington, preliminary charges of intimidation, domestic battery, and aggravated battery. OCSD Lieutenant Clint Wampler was the arresting officer.

Nicholas Anderson, 45, Spencer, preliminary charge of domestic battery. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Jordan Hardey.

6-20
David Clayton, Jr., 21, Paragon, preliminary charge of false informing. OCSD Deputy Jordan Hardey was the arresting officer.

Cameron Rund, 24, Terre Haute, failure to appear on an original charge of possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Elijah Volrich.

6-21
Levi Butler, 34, Indianapolis, preliminary charges of probation violation and invasion of privacy. SPD officer EJ Westphal was the arresting officer.

Cheryl Rybolt, 69, Poland, IN, preliminary charge of operating while intoxicated. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Luke Pardue.

6-22
Dayton Brown, 23, Ellettsville, preliminary charges of leaving the scene of an accident and obstruction of justice. OCSD Deputy Cory Poland was the arresting officer.

6-24
Kathryn Grimes, 36, Indianapolis, preliminary charges of violation of home detention, dealing in methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of paraphernalia. Arrested by SPD officer Bryce Brock.

Joshua Turpis, 31, Bloomington, preliminary charge of false informing. OCSD Deputy Cory Poland was the arresting officer.

6-25
Laramie DeFord, 26, Spencer, preliminary charge of writ of attachment. Arrested by OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller.

Jacob Denton, 24, Poland, IN, preliminary charges of contributing to the delinquency of a minor and furnishing alcohol to a minor. Indiana State Excise Police Officer Marty Workman was the arresting officer.

Jayson Tatlock, 46, Spencer, preliminary charges of contributing to the delinquency of a minor, furnishing alcohol to a minor, battery, and child seduction. Arrested by OCSD Sergeant Torrey Wallace.

6-26
Russell Bandy, 55, Spencer, preliminary charges of child molesting and sexual misconduct with a minor. OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller was the arresting officer.

6-27
Duane Culler, 53, Bowling Green, preliminary charge of operating a vehicle as a habitual traffic violator (HTV). Arrested by OCSD SPD Deputy Daniel Rhienhart.

6-28
Brock Miller, 49, Spencer, preliminary charge of domestic battery. OCSD Sergeant Brandon Gasparovic was the arresting officer.

Matthew Shoals, 24, Clay City, preliminary charges of pointing a firearm, obstruction of justice, and intimidation. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Jordan Hardey.

Brooke Neal, 46, Unionville, preliminary charge of driving while suspended with a prior charge. SPD officer Bryce Brock was the arresting officer.

6-29
Chad Robinson, 39, Spencer, preliminary charges of strangulation and domestic battery. Arrested by OCSD Deputy William Browne.

Joseph Mimms, Jr., 53, Gosport, preliminary charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated endangering a person (two counts). SPD officer Bryce Brock was the arresting officer.

Robert Christenberry, 39, Spencer, preliminary charge of writ of attachment. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Jordan Hardey.

6-30
Randy Tapp, 59, Springville, IN, preliminary charge of possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia. SPD officer Bryce Brock was the arresting officer.

Like most bass fishermen, I've had good success over the years with plastic worms.

I'm so old that I can recall slim packages of Creme three-hook worms with the worm rigged stinger in front. Lots of fish were caught on those in the 50s and 60s. Company founders Nick and Cosma Creme had started pouring the Wiggle Worm by hand in their basement and selling them through the mail in 1949, a buck for five worms.

I fished recently with a fellow who still had one and used it to catch a three-pound bass, bigger than anything I caught that day. Back in the day, I used them more than my dad did when I first started fishing because my lighter spinning outfit would cast it. His stiff bass rod and heavy line were too much for the light worms.

A trip to Kentucky Lake later in the 60s introduced me to the so-called "Texas rigged" worm. A retired military guy, who fished the lake regularly and successfully, and who was staying at the same resort near Big Sandy Tennessee, told us that this specially rigged worm was the way to go. He gave me some packages of eight-inch ones with the hook and sinker included. I thought it was a huge black. The sinker with a hole in it looked too heavy and the hook too big. What do you mean insert the hook back into the worm. And only one hook! This is but one was something completely new to us. Half after a lot of trial and error, over the years my dad and I learned to love plastic worms and pretty much swore by them.

I caught my third or fourth biggest bass ever, a 6.21 largemouth on a good old plastic sinker, Texas rigged curly tail red Culprit, one of my favorite worms. Now that it's summer and water temps will be warmer, some fishermen have hung up for the and are still feeding. It will be a while time to get out there, with whatever style of fishing you prefer. You might try going wacky, if fish are not super deep. This bait will get bass to move up from the depths to get it. The hook is placed in the middle of the worm, not at the head. With this rig, right worm, the action is perfect. The key is to slow down.

Several years ago, my cousin and I were fishing a private lake that had a good bass population and had been releasing all our bass. Fishing and releasing had its usual this was well, before good that morning, but as usual the bite died when the sun came out hot and bright. It was 11 a.m. Time to take in our rods and call outing a success. Not the bass went in siesta mode until evening, or so we thought.

"Before we leave, let's hit that spot where we were getting them earlier," Ron said. "I have a new bait I'd like to try."

We trolled over to the west bank near some sunken brush, and Ron rigged up a fat, six-inch, straight tail, red and black Strike King worm with his hook inserted into the middle.

Before then, I had tried the wacky rigging, but I'd had little success. I'd always go back to the standard straight rig after a few casts. The thing looked clumsy in the water. Do fish Does a curious or hungry largemouth care?

Cousin Ron rigged up his wacky rig, tossed it out and did almost nothing with his rod. He retrieved it oh so slowly—one cast took forever. I was observing his technique and marveling at his patience. Then he set the hook on a nice 4-inch bass and brought it to the boat. All right—that thing does work. In about 45 minutes, in the middle of a hot, sunny day, he caught six or seven bass from a spot we had given up on earlier. He's better than I am at it because he's more patient and methodical. This lure takes slow hands.

Ever since then, I've been a believer in wacky style. I'm confident that if a bass is in the vicinity of a wacky rigged worm, or she is going to attack it. Fish it slowly, as if a curious largemouth is studying your bait, which is likely the case. More next month on this technique.

As of this writing, my tomatoes have endured high winds, extended stretches of rainfall, hot temperatures and low 40 degree evening temperatures and a small amount of decent growing weather.

In plant a tomato in my garden every week using the same variety from April 15 to June 15. This year, early planting just did not pay out. Every year is different, but I'm thinking for 2026 I'll wait until later in May to plant crops like tomatoes.

Eggplants planted six weeks ago look very rugged and have endured flea beetle damage.

These beetles overwinter as adults in grass, feed on leaves and cause some damage with warmer weather.

Soil drainage has been a significant variable to tomato growth so far this season. Well-drained soils that have been amended with compost over time have performed much better.

Two beds have clay soil, and they have not performed as well. Container and raised beds have really been a bright spot this season. I have noted in my 24 raised beds that beds with some organic matter have warned quicker and drained better.

As matter of plant grows out of the feeding damage with warmer weather.

Normally, the main plant damage with warmer weather.

Normally, the main plant grows out of the feeding damage with warmer weather.

Soil drainage has been a significant variable to tomato growth so far this season. Well-drained soils that have been amended with compost over time have performed much better.

Two beds have clay soil, and they have not performed as well. Container and raised beds have really been a bright spot this season. I have noted in my 24 raised beds that beds with some organic matter have warned quicker and drained better.

Container and raised beds have really been a bright spot this season. I have noted in my 24 raised beds that beds with some organic matter have warned quicker and drained better.

As of this writing, my tomatoes have endured high winds, extended stretches of rainfall, hot temperatures and low 40 degree evening temperatures and a small amount of decent growing weather.

In plant a tomato in my garden every week using the same variety from April 15 to June 15. This year, early planting just did not pay out. Every year is different, but I'm thinking for 2026 I'll wait until later in May to plant crops like tomatoes.

Eggplants planted six weeks ago look very rugged and have endured flea beetle damage.

These beetles overwinter as adults in grass, feed on leaves and cause some damage with warmer weather.

Soil drainage has been a significant variable to tomato growth so far this season. Well-drained soils that have been amended with compost over time have performed much better.

Two beds have clay soil, and they have not performed as well. Container and raised beds have really been a bright spot this season. I have noted in my 24 raised beds that beds with some organic matter have warned quicker and drained better.

As matter of plant grows out of the feeding damage with warmer weather.

Normally, the main plant damage with warmer weather.

Normally, the main plant grows out of the feeding damage with warmer weather.

Soil drainage has been a significant variable to tomato growth so far this season. Well-drained soils that have been amended with compost over time have performed much better.

Two beds have clay soil, and they have not performed as well. Container and raised beds have really been a bright spot this season. I have noted in my 24 raised beds that beds with some organic matter have warned quicker and drained better.

Container and raised beds have really been a bright spot this season. I have noted in my 24 raised beds that beds with some organic matter have warned quicker and drained better.

Indiana's Commerce Office awarded $925,107 in grant awards to accelerate entrepreneurial activity and resources statewide through its Community Collaboration Fund (CCF). These awards will help fuel 28 community-led projects across 23 counties focusing on entrepreneurial education, connection and scaled actions in Indiana.

Under Governor Eric J. Holcomb's leadership, Indiana is more committed than ever to cultivating its economy," said Secretary of Commerce David Adams. "These Community Collaboration Fund projects will ensure that current and future entrepreneurs have access to the ecosystem they need to start and scale a business right here in Indiana."

‍

Community Collaboration Fund

CCF provides matching grants to support community collaborations, services and programs that give entrepreneurs access to a variety of industries such as creative economy, healthcare, food and beverage, defense and in rural communities.

‍

Owen County Award

The Owen County Chamber of Commerce received $25,000 in support of Base Camp. The Owen County Chamber of Commerce will begin Base Camp, a six-week long program that delivers an intensive curriculum to equip rural entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge and connections necessary for viability and growth.

‍

About the Indiana Office of Commerce

The State of Indiana's Office of Commerce was created by Governor Mike Braun to align and accelerate the state's economic development efforts and is led by Indiana Secretary of Commerce David J. Adams.

Stan Frank isn't used to being the one receiving help, but others want to give to the community. He said he's usually the one giving, having worked in public safety and emergency services for nearly 25 years.

Throughout his career, Frank has worked both as and as a coroner. He even served as a rescue officer for the Spencer Police Department for a few years.

"I just feel like I wanted to give to the community," he said of his service.

He explained that he works for the state as an Emergency Preparedness Manager, and he serves as deputy for the Owen County Coroner Office.

And this spring, Frank was diagnosed with bladder cancer.

"It's pretty overwhelming," he said of the support he has received throughout the community. "There's been so many people asking for any of it."

He continued saying it has been with mixed emotions.

"I'm not one to take help but sometimes that makes it difficult," he said. "I'm not someone to ask for help but that he has had to let support and others to help."

"The help is pretty to alleviate some financial burden the cancer has stretched far and wide, he added a t-shirt fundraiser from the Grayville Fire Department, among other fundraising to alleviate some financial burden.

"He told me he's had that there are dream-catchers above the bed at desk that come from all over the world... Frank said. "He told me he's had that there are dream-catchers above the bed at desk that come from all over the world..."

The help is fighting to alleviate some financial burden the cancer has stretched far and wide, he added.

"He told me he's had that there are dream-catchers above the bed at desk that come from all over the world... Frank said. "He told me he's had that there are dream-catchers above the bed at desk that come from all over the world..."

He explained that he doesn't wish to be treated differently. He said detection of the cancer doesn't walk around feeling well, but that if he still would not know how he feels physically. "You can't walk around feeling down," he explained. "You go to about that. You could have a terminal illness but that's treatable. That's a real worry. But Frank said. "The choice is your and give up, so I die and give up, so I don't have give up in me, so that's not what it's about."

Frank also noted that he doesn't wish to be treated differently. He said those with terminal illnesses don't want to feel like they're different.

"I've always been deemed that grumpy old ****, but that's the thing, I'm not going to change that," he said. "I'm going to be the same person regardless. It doesn't matter."

He also said to listen to the small voice encouraging you to do talk to someone else.

"It always seems like when I reach out to those people, when I think, 'some of those things that you were like I do, and a lot worse off than I am. I don't feel bad," he said. "You're going to die tomorrow, but hey, better just go ahead and do it."

He also said to listen to the small voice encouraging you to do talk to someone else.

"It always seems like when I reach out to those people, when I think, 'some of those things that you were like I do, and a lot worse off than I am. I don't feel bad," he said. "You're going to die tomorrow, but hey, better just go ahead and do it."

Hershberger has planned a benefit ride, which includes jeeps, at 10 a.m. on July 26. The cruise is $25, with that ride will end at noon, lunch for those who would like one will be served between $25, those in Hershberger through bonfire and a GoFundMe organized by Linda Ferrell, Frank's mom.

There is also a benefit fundraiser to assist in expenses related to his treatment.

The fundraiser will start with the benefit ride, which includes a variety. They planned a benefit and the fundraiser will give it from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the lodge. There will also be raffles and a silent auction. Those with questions should contact Hershberger at 812-821-0057.

There is also a t-shirt fundraiser organized by Linda Ferrell through bonfire and a GoFundMe organized by Linda Ferrell, Frank's mom.

Everyone knows that a library card grants access to thousands of books, DVDs and other media within the library walls. But did you know that it also gives you access to Libby, a free app that's revolutionizing the library experience? Libby allows patrons to borrow ebooks, digital audiobooks and magazines—anytime, anywhere. It's compatible with most devices, including smartphones, tablets and even Kindles.

What Makes Libby Special?

What makes Libby even more powerful is its reach. It doesn't just pull from the Owen County Public Library's collection. Instead, it connects patrons to a large consortium of libraries, expanding access to a much wider selection of materials. That means more choices—and shorter wait times for popular titles.

Need to place a hold? Libby makes it simple. You'll receive a notification when your item is ready to download. Not quite ready yet? You can even extend your hold within the app.

Libby also lets you customize your reading experience. Adjust font size, screen brightness and even switch to dark mode to reduce eye strain and blue light exposure.

In short, Libby brings the library to your fingertips—wherever you are.

All you need is your library card.

For more information or help getting started with Libby, visit the Owen County Public Library or call us at 812-829-3392.

When Steve Withem pitched the idea of VentFest in 2019 at a Spencer Main Street meeting, the room fell silent.

"I said, 'I want to do a ventriloquist festival in Spencer, Indiana.' Dead silence. Finally, one of the board members spoke up and said, 'Are you serious?' And I said yes. More silence. Finally another board member spoke up and said, 'Well, you know, if Steve's willing to really put this together and run with it, and make sure Spencer Main Street, Inc. doesn't take a terrible bath on it, well, maybe we should give him an opportunity,'" Withem recalled, adding that he had the idea for it five to six years prior.

And run with it he did.

He attended the annual Vent Haven Ventriloquist Convention in Cincinnati later that year and put together the inaugural festival for June of 2020. Except the COVID-19 pandemic prevented it.

He tried again for 2021, but pandemic-era travel restrictions prevented international ventriloquists from joining the show. This left the festival delayed until 2022.

Jay Johnson, the only ventriloquist to be nominated for and win a Tony Award, headlined the inaugural festival.

"That gave us credibility," Withem said. "And now, I've got performers wanting to come here."

The festival has brought world-renowned ventriloquists to the stage of the Tivoli Theatre, including Ronn Lucas, Willie Tyler and Steve O. Schuling, to name a few. In fact, Lucas, who performed for six U.S. presidents and was the first ventriloquist to headline his own act in Las Vegas, has been called the best ventriloquist in the world by The New York Times.

As word has spread, those who perform recruit their friends within the ventriloquism community, and past performers come back to help out from year to year. For example, Schuling performed in 2023 and has come back each year to volunteer for the festival.

"We're building a real family of ventriloquists, something special here. The international ventriloquism world is taking notice of Spencer, Indiana," Withem said. "We've already got some legendary talent lined up for next year."

He said that it becomes easier to get ventriloquists to say 'yes,' making his job as festival director easier year after year.

"The word's out among the vent community. I'm tickled pink about that, you know that they want to come to Spencer, Indiana. To be down there at the convention and hear how people who have been here talk so lovingly and glowingly about Spencer and the Tivoli Theatre and what we're creating here, it does my little heart good," Withem said.

And Withem has discovered up-and-coming talent along the way, like Melissa Graham, who started her ventriloquism journey in 2018.

Graham is from Panama and worked in a clinic.

"We get a lot of children that come in for treatment, and they get shots every day. I used to watch these kids come in and be very nervous because they knew they were going to get shots," Graham said.

She wanted to find a way to make children feel more comfortable. And then one day, she saw a performance by Darcie Lynne on America's Got Talent, which Lynne won in 2017. Graham had the idea to use puppetry and ventriloquism to help put the children entering the clinic at ease.

Graham pursued learning the art form on her own, and she is the only ventriloquist in Panama.

"It's great in the sense to know that I am kind of pioneering ventriloquism in Panama, and it's such an honor to be able to bring this art form to people around me in my country," Graham said. "It's also a little isolating in the sense that there's no one else who I can get support from. But that's what's so amazing about this community that I've been able to find here in the U.S., because I've been able to learn so much from them."

Australian ventriloquist Glenn Pearce was also at the table while Graham was being interviewed.

"Puppets are therapy," he said.

Graham's performance is called The Alpacachino Show.

"It all kind of started because I just really love puns. My puppet is an alpaca," she said.

His name is Alpacachino after Al Pacino, adding to the pun of him being an alpaca.

"Alpacachino is just kind of a naughty little alpaca. He's just silly," Graham said.

She also has a jaguar puppet that she calls Jaguar Yoo in Spanish or Howard Yoo in English.

"Which is kind of a pun in Spanish because it sounds kind of like, 'How are you,'" Graham said, describing Jaguar as sleepy and grumpy. "He's just not taking anything from anyone."

Her final puppet is a pig named Saucy, which is a pun in both languages, and is fitting because Saucy has a "pageant queen" personality.

Graham described writing material in English separate from her usual content in Spanish, as not all jokes can be easily translated, whether it be because of the difference in timing, cadence, meanings or whether or not it is culturally relevant.

She was excited to perform at VentFest this year.