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.