News in Brief - Oct 16 '26

Patriot Band & Guard heads to Semi-State

The Owen Valley Patriot Band & Guard is semi-state bound! Following back-to-back weekends earning prestigious Indiana State School Music Association (ISSMA) Gold Ratings, the Patriots have officially qualified for the ISSMA Semi-Finals.

The band and color guard will bring their performance, titled “SCORCHED,” to Decatur Central High School on Saturday, Oct. 24. Congratulations to the students and directors on this outstanding achievement, and best of luck at Semi-State!

Town of Spencer hosting Trash Clean-Up Day

The Town of Spencer has announced it will host a Trash Clean-Up Day on Nov. 7, running from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The clean-up event will be held at the former Riddle Tractor Sales lot on W. Morgan St., located across from Babbs Supermarket. Organizers note that this service is exclusively for town residents. Workers will be on-site throughout the day to assist participants with unloading and disposal.

Please note that tires, televisions, and paint will not be accepted.

$5,000 grant for Spencer first responders

The Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF) has awarded a $5,000 Community Investment Grant to the Town of Spencer to support mental health services for local first responders.

The grant funds will assist with onboarding new responders and help establish accessible resources and information pathways to professional mental health care. The initiative aims to prioritize wellness and support for the emergency personnel who serve and protect the community every day.

CCSC Board president earns Gold Seal Certification

Vivian Whitaker, President of the Cloverdale Community School Corporation (CCSC) Board of School Trustees, recently earned the Indiana School Boards Association’s 2026 Board Presidents’ Gold Seal Leadership Certification. This prestigious professional development program is designed to enhance governance and leadership skills among school board presidents across the state.

The certification program equips leaders with advanced strategies in critical areas, including fiscal oversight, public transparency, and student achievement goal setting. Participants engage in a comprehensive year-long series of professional learning experiences, which include regional discussions, specialized training sessions, peer networking opportunities, and seminars.

CCSC Superintendent Dr. Stacy Mason praised the achievement, emphasizing that effective leadership demands a commitment to continuous learning and growth.

“Effective leadership requires a commitment to continuous learning and growth,” Mason said. “By earning the ISBA Presidents’ Gold Seal Leadership Certification, Ms. Whitaker has demonstrated a dedication to serving our students and community at the highest level.”

In her role as board president, Whitaker collaborates with district leadership and fellow board members to establish the vision for the school corporation, ensure the responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources, and champion educational opportunities for every student.

CCSC hosts first ‘Coffee & Conversation’ event

Cloverdale Community School Corporation (CCSC) recently welcomed community business leaders, local partners, and residents to Cloverdale High School for its first-ever “Coffee & Conversation” event.

Guests enjoyed coffee alongside students while hearing presentations from all school buildings highlighting programs, initiatives, and opportunities designed to support student achievement, performance, and overall well-being. Superintendent Dr. Stacy Mason noted that the event showcased initiatives spanning every grade level across the corporation.

Middle and high school students shared details on student-created programs aimed at improving the school atmosphere and enhancing daily experiences for both students and staff. Additionally, elementary school faculty highlighted the early benefits of the new NeuroBalance Project at Cloverdale Elementary.

Organizers emphasized the vital role community involvement plays for a small rural school corporation, expressing appreciation to everyone who attended. School officials hope to host a similar gathering again in the spring to continue building strong connections between the schools and the community.

PES staff raises over $800 during McTeacher Night

Patricksburg Elementary School (PES) staff recently traded their lesson plans for Happy Meals to host a successful McTeacher Night at the Spencer McDonald’s.

With a packed lobby and a drive-thru full of cars, the PES Bulldogs raised $802 while serving countless smiles to local families and supporters.

School organizers expressed gratitude to Spencer McDonald’s for hosting the event, as well as to the patient employees who trained, supervised, and guided the teachers throughout the busy evening.

GES teacher honored as B97 ‘Teacher Feature’

Gosport Elementary School (GES) kindergarten teacher Gabby Corder was recently selected as a B97 & IU Credit Union “Teacher Feature” for the positive impact she makes on her students and school community.

Teachers are nominated by community members to receive this recognition. Ms. Corder was surprised with a special Teacher Feature sign, celebrating with her kindergarten students over ice cream treats. Known for bringing kindness, patience, and enthusiasm to her classroom daily, Ms. Corder helps her young students feel ready and excited to learn.

The Spencer-Owen Community Schools family celebrated the achievement, expressing pride and gratitude for her dedication to the students at GES.

OVHS coach and six players earn all-star selection

Owen Valley High School (OVHS) is celebrating a major milestone for its boys’ soccer program, with six Patriot players and their head coach selected to participate in the upcoming Indiana Elite All-Star North vs South Soccer Game on Nov. 7.

Head coach Stephen Jones has been chosen to lead the team from the sidelines, guiding a strong contingent of Patriot standouts. The Owen Valley players named to the all-star roster are Brodi Wood, Luke Deppe, Armando Escalante, Kayden Spencer, Edward Winkle, and Jace Miller.

This exceptional representation highlights the strength and talent of the OVHS soccer program this season.

Wells sets new OVHS volleyball record

Owen Valley High School (OVHS) volleyball standout Abree Wells has etched her name in the Lady Patriot record books. Wells recently broke the school record for kills, solidifying her status as one of the top offensive powerhouses in the Owen Valley volleyball program.

Wells’ impressive milestone has drawn praise from the school and local sports community as the Lady Patriots celebrate her hard work and athletic achievements on the court.

OVHS band students named to IBA Honor Bands

Ten talented musicians from the Owen Valley High School (OVHS) band program have been selected to prestigious Indiana Bandmaster Association (IBA) Honor Bands.

The accomplished OVHS students earning these honors include Eli Bridges on trombone, Alexander Davies on baritone sax, Simon Dennison on tuba, Trevor Floyd on trumpet, Zoe Kyle on clarinet, Keith Hyser on tenor sax, Norah Lott on flute/piccolo, Austin Minor on trombone, Lucas Minor on trumpet, and Tatum White on bass clarinet.

This impressive representation highlights the dedication and musical excellence thriving within the Owen Valley band program.

OVHS freshman earns Girl Scout Silver Award

Owen Valley High School freshman Cecilia Arnold, daughter of Clark and Melissa Arnold, has successfully completed her Girl Scout Silver Award project, the highest honor a Girl Scout Cadette can earn.

To achieve the Silver Award, Cadettes in grades six through eight must complete a Cadette Journey, identify a community issue they care about, develop a plan, and take action through a meaningful project that creates a lasting difference.

For her project, Arnold constructed a community puzzle and game box located behind Gosport Elementary School. Her goal was to encourage children and families to step away from electronics, spend more face-to-face time together, and connect through talking, laughing, and playing.

Arnold expressed gratitude to the family members, friends, and local businesses whose generous donations made the community project possible. Community leaders praised her accomplishment as a wonderful example of leadership, service, and dedication to giving back.

New Beginnings receives $1,000 grant

The Indiana Uplands Realtors Association Fund has awarded a $1,000 donor-advised grant to the New Beginnings Pregnancy Resource Center through the Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF).

The funding will directly support the center’s ongoing mission to provide vital resources, education, and compassionate care to individuals and families throughout the local community.

Representatives from the OCCF expressed their gratitude for the continued generosity of local funds, highlighting how donor-advised contributions create meaningful, direct impacts for local organizations and the residents they serve.

‘Falloween’ at MCSP is Oct. 23–24

McCormick’s Creek State Park (MCSP) is getting into the autumn spirit by hosting a packed lineup of family-friendly “Falloween” events on Friday, Oct. 23, and Saturday, Oct. 24.

The weekend kicks off Oct. 23 with a leaf-pounding bandana craft at the Nature Center Amphitheater at 4 p.m. Visitors can also enjoy free face painting, a visit from the Owen County Book Mobile, and a spooky craft in front of the Canyon Inn from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The evening continues with a G-rated family movie night featuring free popcorn and cookies in the Canyon Inn lobby at 6:30 p.m., followed by a 1.4-mile Night Owl Prowl hike starting at 8 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 24, features a full day of activities beginning with “Buck’s Dead and Breakfast” in the Nature Center parking lot from 9:30 a.m. to noon, where cash-only purchases of spider donuts and hot drinks will benefit the Friends of McCormick’s Creek. Pumpkin carving will also be held at the Nature Center Amphitheater from 10 a.m. to noon for $5 per pumpkin, limited to the first 50 guests.

Later in the day, a park naturalist will host a live “Ssssnakes” program at 3 p.m., followed by the popular Pumpkin Parade hike from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., where guests can wear costumes, walk an accessible path to view carved Jack-o-Lanterns, vote for favorites, and collect a treat bag. The festivities conclude with a live nocturnal animal presentation by WildCare from 8 to 9 p.m. in the Nature Center Auditorium, featuring a silver-haired bat and a southern flying squirrel.

For more information on these events and future park activities, visitors can check online at on.IN.gov/mccormickcreek.

YMCA hosting Spooky Tour & Trick-or-Treat event

The Owen County Family YMCA is inviting families to join in on some holiday fun by hosting a free Spooky Tour & Trick-or-Treat event on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 6 to 8 p.m.

The event will take place at the YMCA located at 1111 W. State Road 46 in Spencer. Attendees can enjoy a free, spooky indoor tour of the facility while children trick-or-treat. Local businesses and organizations will be on-site participating in the festivities and handing out candy to community members.

Franklin Township Community VFD hosting chili supper

The Franklin Township Community Volunteer Fire Department will host its annual Chili Supper on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 4 to 8 p.m.

The event will take place at the Freedom Nazarene Fellowship Center, located at 5504 Jefferson St. in Freedom. Admission includes all-you-can-eat chili, a drink, and one dessert for $7.50 for adults and $5.00 for kids, with all proceeds directly benefiting the volunteer fire department. For those who prefer to eat on the run, chili-to-go options will also be available.

Royer Veterinary Services to host pet vaccine clinic

Royer Veterinary Services of Worthington will be at the Spencer Save-A-Lot, located at 42 Bob Babbs Drive, on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to host a pet vaccine clinic for dogs and cats.

A variety of affordable canine and feline vaccinations and health services will be available during the event. Canine options include a rabies vaccine for $10, canine distemper for $20, puppy vaccine for $20, Bordetella for $15, Lyme vaccine for $30, and a heartworm test for $15. Feline services include a rabies vaccine for $10, feline distemper for $15, and a feline distemper with Leukemia combo for $25.

Free breakfast, live music at Freedom Baptist Church

Freedom Baptist Church is inviting the community to two upcoming events this fall, located at 5773 Main St. in Freedom.

The first event is a free breakfast scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 24, from 8 to 11 a.m. While the meal is free, donations are welcome to support the church’s community outreach.

The following week, the church will host a special music event on Saturday, Nov. 7, beginning at 6 p.m. The evening will feature a live performance by the High Sierra Band. All are welcome to attend both community gatherings.

Annual VCPA Chili Fest is Nov. 1

The Vandalia Community Preservation Association (VCPA) will host its Annual Chili Fest on Sunday, Nov. 1, from 1 to 4:30 p.m. The event will take place at 5471 Vandalia Road in the historic village of Vandalia, located six miles west of Spencer.

Beginning at 1 p.m., visitors can gather in the historic one-room schoolhouse to enjoy home-made chili and dessert. The festivities continue at 2:30 p.m. inside the chapel with live musical entertainment featuring the Lloyd Wood Show, highlighting performances by Lloyd Wood and his talented musician friends.

Admission is $12 for adults and $5 for children aged 10 and under. All proceeds from the event will go directly toward the preservation and ongoing maintenance of the historic Vandalia chapel and schoolhouse.

Art Guild to host Tim Lewis art show

Art lovers and community members are invited to a special exhibition featuring renowned watercolor artist Tim Lewis, hosted by the Owen County Art Guild on Nov. 1, from 2 to 4 p.m.

Lewis grew up in Spencer and attended Purdue University. Community members are invited to attend the exhibition, enjoy refreshments, and chat with the artist during this special event.

The exhibition will take place at the art guild, located at 199 W. Cooper St., Spencer.

Reserve your booth for ‘Christmas at the Square’

Spencer Main Street has officially opened its vendor call-out for crafters, artisans, and food vendors interested in participating in the upcoming “Christmas at the Square” market.

The outdoor holiday event is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 5, from noon to 5 p.m. Organizers are welcoming a wide variety of vendors to help fill the seasonal market. Vendor spaces are available for a 10x10 booth at a cost of $10.

Interested participants can reserve their space online by visiting www.SpencerMainStreet.org.

Humane Society seeks volunteers

The Owen County Humane Society is currently inviting animal lovers in the community to join its volunteer team.

Prospective volunteers must be 18 years of age or older. Daily volunteer responsibilities help support shelter operations and animal care, including walking dogs, doing laundry, washing dishes, and cleaning cat and dog kennels (which may require lifting over 15 pounds). Volunteers also help bathe cats and dogs, and most importantly, spend quality time with animals in need.

The shelter, located at 2014 W. Romona Rd., is open Wednesday through Saturday from 12 to 5 p.m. north of Spencer. Those interested in helping out can fill out an online application by visiting www.ochumane.org/volunteer, or pick up a form in person during open hours.

New support group for those affected by cancer starts in Spencer

Founded by Spencer resident Doris Hammond after her battle with pancreatic cancer, the new group is meant as a way for people with cancer, survivors, or those supporting someone with cancer to work together, share resources, and support each other.

The first meeting of the group will take place Oct. 19 at 5:30 p.m. at the Lester F. Litten (Lions Club) Community Building, 59 N Main St., Spencer. The meeting is open to anyone interested in attending.

Community invited to visit new MYPath expansion

The community is invited to experience the newest section of the MYPath Trail on Oct. 21, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at 1375 River Rd.

In May of this year, the Owen County Community Foundation purchased the property at 1375 River Rd. to connect the MYPath trail to the Department of Natural Resources’ boat ramp located at the public access site off of River Rd. The new trail includes a feature called the Limestone Ledge, a section of limestone at the edge of the White River. Since the purchase, volunteers have been upgrading the trail. Hikers are advised that the new trail is a natural surface with uneven footing, not like the paved section of MYPath.

Visitors to the trail event are welcome to enjoy a hot dog while walking on the new trail section. In addition, they are invited to visit the building on the property and offer suggested uses.