The Owen News -- Dec. 5, 2025 (Vol. 2, Issue 12)

Additional closure deepens crisis

Owen County loses 175 childcare spots this year

By Nicole DeCriscio Executive Editor

Stephanie Freeman wiped away tears as she hugged a child goodbye, telling them that she loved them and would miss them.

“This hurts,” she said.

She described herself as the “hot mess express” as she closed her childcare center, Tiny Town Learning Academy on Nov. 19.

“I haven’t slept in like three nights. To be honest, I don’t know when

I will sleep again now,” she said.

The closure of Tiny Town marks yet another reduction in the available spots for childcare in Owen County, with the Owen County Family YMCA’s childcare facility closing over the summer. Meaning that since July, Owen County has lost 175 childcare spots.

And Owen County isn’t alone in this problem. She estimates that the state has seen approximately 60 percent of its childcare facilities close in the two

months prior to closing her own business.

A Widening Need

In 2022, when the Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF) completed its five year strategic plan, one of the needs that emerged was the need for increased access to high-quality care and learning opportunities for children ages zero to five.

“We realized that it’s a social issue. It’s an educational issue, but

CHILDCARE | PAGE 9

Chants outside, cheers inside

Protests mark event featuring governor, lieutenant governor

By Nicole DeCriscio Executive Editor

Acold snap and the early darkness of late fall didn’t deter roughly 50 protesters gathering on the sidewalk outside of the Nov. 10 Owen County Lincoln Day dinner.

LINCOLN DAY | PAGE 12

BELOW: From left, Lieutenant Governor Micah Beckwith and Governor Mike Braun listen as Indiana Senator Rodric Bray speaks about Indiana’s accomplishments during the Nov. 10 Owen County Lincoln Day dinner. NICOLE DECRISCIO | THE OWEN NEWS

Kohr chosen to fill Spencer Council vacancy

By Travis Curry Senior Correspondent

A political party caucus held Nov. 14 at the Owen County Democratic Party Headquarters culminated in Ginger Kohr being selected to fill an open seat on the three-member Spencer Town Council. The position was previously held by Mike Spinks, an elected Democrat, who passed away on Oct. 23.

Kohr, who recently retired from her role as director of the Owen County Public Library, will complete the remainder of Spinks’ elected term, which ends Dec. 31, 2027.

Man charged in crash

Local

couple critically injured

By Nicole DeCriscio Executive Editor

A Spencer man is facing one felony charge and three misdemeanors following an accident outside of Gosport on Nov. 23 leaving a young Owen County couple critically injured.

By Travis Curry Senior Correspondent

Cloverdale Community School Corporation (CCSC) Superintendent Greg Linton recently announced his intention to step away from the position when his current contract ends on June 30, 2026. The announcement was made during the RETIRE | PAGE 11 CHARGED | PAGE 11

TRUSTED NEWS FOR A THRIVING COMMUNITY

HOW TO CONTACT US

PHYSICAL ADDRESS:

114 S. MAIN ST. SPENCER, IN 47460

MAILING ADDRESS:

P.O. BOX 64 SPENCER, IN 47460

EMAIL:

INFO@THEOWENNEWS.ORG

OFFICE HOURS STARTING IN 2026: TUESDAYS 9 AM TO NOON THURSDAYS 1:30 PM TO 5 PM

Fuhs family donates JFK tapestry

WWW.THEOWENNEWS.ORG

OUR BOARD

PRESIDENT

TRAVIS CURRY VICE PRESIDENT

AARON LAGRANGE TREASURER

KURT ROSENBERGER BOARD MEMBERS

JESSICA BRINSON

SUZANNAH COUCH

TYLER DEFORD

CAROLINE RILEY

STEFAN WELSH

OUR STAFF

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

NICOLE DECRISCIO

ADVERTISING & BUSINESS MANAGER

LOLA GARRISON

PICKUP LOCATIONS

BABBS SUPERMARKET MILLGROVE COUNTRY MART SPENCER PRIDE

CORRECTIONS POLICY

WE AIM FOR AS CLOSE TO PERFECTION AS HUMANLY POSSIBLE. PLEASE SEND CORRECTIONS TO INFO@THEOWENNEWS.ORG.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

WE WELCOME LETTERS TO THE EDITOR UP TO 300 WORDS. OUR FULL POLICY CAN BE FOUND ON OUR WEBSITE.

HOW TO DONATE

WE BELIEVE THAT OUR COMMUNITY DESERVES ACCESS TO RELIABLE, RESPONSIBLE AND ETHICAL NEWS. OUR MODEL IS RELIANT UPON DONATIONS MADE BY OUR READERS. ONLINE DONATIONS CAN BE MADE THROUGH OUR WEBSITE, BY USING THE QR CODE BELOW OR THROUGH THE OWEN COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION. CASH OR CHECK DONATIONS CAN BE MAILED TO US AT THE ADDRESS ABOVE.

ABOUT THE OWEN NEWS

THE OWEN NEWS IS THE PRINTED NEWSPAPER OWNED BY THE OWEN NEWS PROJECT, INC, A NONPROFIT 501(C)3 ORGANIZATION. AT THE OWEN NEWS PROJECT, WE ARE COMMITTED TO DELIVERING RELIABLE AND UNBIASED LOCAL NEWS AND INFORMATION TO EMPOWER OUR READERS AND BUILD A STRONGER COMMUNITY.

THE OWEN NEWS IS A MEMBER OF THE HOOSIER STATE PRESS ASSOCIATION (HSPA). SINCE 1933, THE HSPA HAS BEEN INDIANA’S TRADE ORGANIZATION ADVOCATING FOR THE FREE PRESS, PROMOTING HIGH STANDARDS OF JOURNALISM AND PROVIDING SUPPORT AND SERVICES TO ITS MEMBER NEWSPAPERS. THE OWEN NEWS IS ONE OF THE FIRST NON-PROFIT NEWSPAPERS TO JOIN THE HSPA.

Marriages and Dissolutions

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.

11-3

Michael Wolford (age 73) & Carol S. Wolford (age 73)

11-10

Raylena A. Dowdy (age 35) & Nathan William

Perkins (age 35)

11-18

Ashley M. Cox (age 40) & Chris Benjamin Ruggles (age 47)

11-25

Cecelia L. Raub (age 22) & Nicholas J. Nelson (age 23)

Brooklyn Welding (age 27) & Clayton Dove (age 25)

11-26

Makayla Hampton (age 29) & Steven Sharpee (age 36)

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

Government Meeting Calendar

Dec. 8

Owen County Council, 6 p.m., Commissioners’ Room, Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.

Owen Valley Fire Territory Board, 6 p.m. at the Owen Valley Fire Department, 401 Walnut St., Spencer.

Cloverdale Community Schools Board of Trustees, 7 p.m. in the Arthur L. Johnson Administration Building, 310 E. Logan St., Cloverdale.

Dec. 9

Gosport Town Council, 7 p.m. in the Gosport Community Building, 301 N. Ninth St., Gosport.

Dec. 11

Spencer-Owen Community Schools Board of Trustees, 7 p.m. in the Mike Wells Memorial Board Room at Central Office, 205 E. Hillside Ave., Spencer.

Dec. 15

Owen County Public Library Board, 5 p.m. in the OCPL Vault Room, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. Spencer Town Council, 6 p.m. in the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St., Spencer.

Dec. 17

Spencer Redevelopment Commission, 6 p.m. in the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St., Spencer.

Dec. 18

Owen County Board of Commissioners, 6 p.m., Commissioners’ Room, Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.

Dec. 22

Spencer Parks and Recreation Board, 6 p.m. in the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St., Spencer.

Dec. 23

Spencer Plan Commission & BZA, 6 p.m. in the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St., Spencer.

Gosport Town Council, 7 p.m. in the Gosport Community Building, 301 N. Ninth St., Gosport.

Bill Breeden, Chairman of the Owen County Democratic Party, recently accepted a tapestry featuring the late President John F. Kennedy. The tapestry was donated by Nancy Fuhs, widow of the late Spencer attorney John The tapestry was previously displayed inside Fuhs’ law office in Spencer. It will now be on permanent display inside the Owen County Democratic Party Headquarters on E. Jefferson St. Breeden is shown accepting the tapestry from Linda Roy, a Fuhs family friend and former employee of Fuhs’ law office. Fuhs passed away in May of 2025. TRAVIS CURRY | THE OWEN NEWS

11-7

Wesley F. Penland & Amber Penland

11-11

Andrea Bixler & Donald Bixler

11-12

Nicholas Christy & Karen Christy

11-17

Heather Turpin Graves & Brittany Graves

11-21

Laura L. Hamm & David E. Hamm

11-25

Vera Barnett & William Barnett

Dec. 24 and 25

Owen County Courthouse closed in observance of Christmas.

Dec. 29

***Owen County Council, 6 p.m., Commissioners’ Room, Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer. (If needed)

Jan. 8, 2026

Owen County Board of Zoning Appeals, 7 p.m., Commissioners’ Room, Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer. Spencer-Owen Community Schools Board of Trustees, 7 p.m. in the Mike Wells Memorial Board Room at Central Office, 205 E. Hillside Ave., Spencer.

Community Events Calendar

Nov. 8

The Friends of the Library monthly book sale, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Community Room of the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., SCalendar of Events

Dec. 5

Blood drive, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Open Class Building, Owen County Fairgrounds, 364 S. East St., Spencer. Hosted by the Owen County Extension Homemakers, Owen County Fair Board and the American Red Cross. Register online at redcross.org. Enter the Spencer zip code, 47460, to find the drive held in Owen County.

Cookies and Cocoa with Santa, 5 to 7 p.m. at the Canyon Inn inside McCormick’s Creek State Park, 451 McCormick’s Creek Park Rd., Spencer. Free.

Winter Lights at Lieber State Recreation Area, 6 to 9 p.m., 1317 W. Lieber Rd., Cloverdale. Drive through the electric campground and see the park’s annual light display, Dec. 5 to 7 and Dec. 12 to 14. There is no gate fee.

Dec. 6

Donuts with Santa, 9 to 11 a.m. at Endeavor Communications, 2 West St., Cloverdale. Free donuts, crafts and pictures with Santa. Craft Fair, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Cloverdale High School, 205 W. Market St., Cloverdale. The event will benefit clothe-a-child.

Christmas at the Square, noon to 5 p.m., hosted by Spencer Main Street in downtown Spencer. Santa will arrive at the market around 12:30 p.m. before making his way to the Tivoli for photos from 1 to 4 p.m. The vendor market will take place on Washington and Franklin streets and inside the Spencer Pride commUnity center.

Owen County Heritage & Culture Center Christmas Open House, noon to 3 p.m., 110 E. Market St., Spencer, during Christmas at the Square. Check out the history museum, coffee shoppe and gift shop in the Old Spencer Carnegie Library building. Enjoy holiday refreshments. Free admission. For more information, visit owencountyindhistory. org.

Owen Valley Patriot Choirs will perform a holiday set during Christmas at the Square,

12:30 to 1 p.m. at the corner of Washington and Franklin streets in Spencer.

A Snoopy Christmas, 1 to 4 p.m., presented by the Owen County Chamber of Commerce, 120 S. Main St., Spencer. Crafts, toys and photo ops with Snoopy. Sponsored by Duke Energy. Owen County Courthouse dome Christmas lighting ceremony, with entertainment by the Owen Valley Big Band, 5:30 to 6 p.m. Christmas in Cloverdale Lighted Parade, 6 p.m. in Cloverdale. Santa will be at the Icehouse following the parade, ready for photo ops and for children to tell him their Christmas wishes. Complimentary hot chocolate and cookies will be available. Hosted by Cloverdale Main Street.

Dec. 7

Spencer Pride general meeting, 4 p.m. at the Spencer Pride commUnity center, 17 E. Franklin St., Spencer.

Dec. 8

Jolly Homemakers meeting, 1 p.m. at the Freedom Community Center, 5558 FreedomArney Rd., Freedom. Owen Valley FFA Christmas Party, 6 to 8 p.m. in the Ag room at Owen Valley High School, 622 S.R. 46W, Spencer. Games, tacos and a toy drive to spread holiday cheer. Toys will be donated to Owen County Department of Child Services for foster children in need.

Dec. 9

Braysville Homemakers meeting, 5:30 p.m. in the upstairs meeting room at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Elevator access is available. For more information, call 812-8295020. Patricksburg

Elementary School Christmas Festivities, 5:45 to 7:30 p.m., 9912 S.R. 246, Patricksburg. The Christmas program begins at 5:45 p.m., followed at 6:15 p.m. by hot chocolate and cookies, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and the opening of Santa’s Workshop Store.

Dec. 10

Harrison Homemakers meeting, noon at the Purdue Extension-Owen County

office, 180 S. Washington St., Spencer.

Free showings of “Young at Heart,” 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Sponsored by the Amos family.

Paint your pet portrait event, 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Activity Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. Call 812-829-3392 ext. 3 for more information and to reserve your spot.

Dec. 11

Writing Workshop, 6 p.m. at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. Led by author Julia Karr.

Spencer Masonic Lodge #95 stated meeting, 7:30 p.m. at the Lodge, 361 N. Harrison St., Spencer.

Dec. 12

The Friends of the Library monthly book sale, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Community Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. Mountain Strings Dulcimer Group, 2 to 3 p.m. in the Hearth Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer.

Owen Valley High School Cheer Christmas Showcase at halftime of the varsity basketball game at OVHS. Spirit, sparkle and a little holiday magic. The varsity game begins around 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 13

Breakfast with Santa, 9 to 11 a.m. at the Cloverdale American Legion Post #281, 501 S. Main St., Cloverdale. Enjoy free pictures with Santa, crafts with Boys Scouts, books and a small gift for kids under 12. Hosted by Cloverdale Main Street.

Breakfast with Santa, 9 to 11 a.m. at the Cataract Lake Community Center, 5530 S.R. 42, Poland. Featuring crafts and pictures with Santa.

Breakfast with Santa, 10 a.m. to noon at the Owen County Democratic Party headquarters, 152 E. Jefferson St., Spencer. Breakfast, free photo ops with Santa and gifts for the first 60 kids in attendance. Free.

Gosport Holiday Festival, Santas of the World, 12 to 5 p.m., presented by the Gosport Business Association. Cookie walk, cake/dessert walk, vendors, games

and face painting, live nativity, ugly sweater contest, selfies with Santa, snowball drop and more. OVMS/OVHS Patriot Choirs’ Sounds of the Season concert, 3 p.m. in the Owen Valley High School Auditorium, 622 S.R. 46W, Spencer. Admission is $5 (cash or card). Join the choirs for an afternoon of music, sparkle and holiday cheer. Doors open 30 minutes before the show.

Community Christmas Dinner, beginning at 5 p.m. at the Coal City American Legion Post #141, 4188 Main St., Coal City. Free.

Dec. 15

A Super Night to Save Local News, 6 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. This is a fundraiser to support the operations of The Owen News. Admission is $30 per person. Tickets include admission to the original “Superman” (1978) movie, one glass of wine and charcuterie from Owen Valley Winery. The event will also feature a silent auction. Tickets can be purchased online at bit.ly/OwenNewsHero.

Dec. 16

Owen County Democratic Party monthly meeting, 5:30 p.m. at the Democrat Headquarters, 152 E. Jefferson St., Spencer. Dinner and social hour begins at 5:30 p.m., with the meeting starting at 6:30 p.m. All are welcome. The December meeting will feature Mary Allen, a candidate for U.S. Congress in the 8th District.

Spencer Lions Club meeting, 6:30 p.m. at the Lester F. Litten Community Building, 59 N. Main St., Spencer.

Dec. 17

Owen County Caring Hands meeting from 9 a.m. to noon at 1580 Pottersville Rd., Spencer. For more information, contact Sandy Arthur at 317-446-1346.

Free showings of “A Christmas Story,” 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Sponsored by Youth Service of Monroe County.

Spencer Pride Board of Directors meeting, 6:30 p.m., at the Spencer Pride commUnity center, 17 E. Franklin St., Spencer.

Dec. 18

Spencer Exchange

Club meeting, noon at the Owen County Family YMCA, 1111 W. SR 46, Spencer.

Calico Homemakers meeting, 2 p.m. Meetings are held at a different restaurant each month. For more information, call 812-829-5020.

Trivia Night with Rance Fawbush, 6 p.m. at the Owen Valley Winery, Vineyard & Bistro, 491 Timber Ridge Rd., Spencer.

Christmas Caroling, 6:30 p.m., meet at the Gosport Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 119 N. Seventh St., Gosport. Enjoy a hot chocolate bar immediately afterward. Grow Your Own Fruit & Nuts workshop, 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. in the Community Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. Featured presenter will be Chris Gonso of WAG Farm, Patricksburg. Sponsored by the Owen County Soil & Water Conservation District. For more information, call 812-829-2605.

Dec. 19

Live performance by Pat Otto on mandolin, 4:45 to 5:45 p.m. in the Hearth Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer.

Community-Wide Christmas Sing-Along/ Backpack Buddies Food Drive, 6 to 7 p.m. at the Spencer First Baptist Church, 110 N. Washington St., Spencer. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

Dec. 21

A Christmas Night of Worship, 6 p.m. at Owen Valley Christian Fellowship, 338 S.R. 43S, Spencer. Everyone is welcome.

Free showing of “The Man Who Invented Christmas,” 7 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Sponsored by the Amos family.

Dec. 23

Free showings of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” starring Jim Carrey, 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Sponsored by Elizabeth Ruh, Personal Financial Services, LLC.

Owen County SWCD Board of Supervisors meeting, 4:30 p.m. at the SWCD office, 788 Pottersville Rd., Spencer. Open to the public.

Obituaries

infinitely more interesting the day Judith Annette Epp arrived in Indianapolis on New Year’s Day, 1949. It’s fitting that she was born at the very start of a year; Judi never waited for life to happen. She planned it, executed it, occasionally bedazzled it, and then invited everyone else in.

Judi grew up in Indianapolis, later

dedicating many years to AT&T before deciding early retirement sounded better than corporate conference calls. Retirement, for Judi, was not an exit - just a costume change. She poured her energy into volunteerism across countless causes, but her heart found its truest home cofounding Spencer Pride, Inc. For two decades, Judi was the kind of leader nonprofits dream of and spreadsheets fear. She did everythingfundraising, secretarial finesse, treasurer wizardry - and then helped decide that transforming a historic building into the Spencer Pride commUnity center

Letters to the Editor

On a letter from last month

The Friday, Nov. 7 issue of The Owen News carried a “Letter to the Editor” from a Mr. Ellington, a Greene County politician running for the State Senate in District 39. It was a thinly disguised “campaign speech” that amazingly turned out to be quite prescient. Mr. Ellington rambled about the need to increase the 7-2 majority the GOP already has in the House of Representatives from Indiana. He then went on to rail against the opposition to re-districting in Indiana by a “handful” of Republican members of the Indiana Statehouse.

He predicted that these Republicans who balked at redrawing districts would incur the “sizable wrath of the MAGA BASE.” While not knowing if he had his letter printed in other publications, there is no way of telling or sure whether or not his prediction inspired the seven or eight SWAT phone calls

Food Inspections

Routine food inspections were conducted by the Owen County Health Department during the month of November.

sounded like fun. She spent her final years spearheading its renovation, including the installation of its shiny new elevator this October. Yes, Judi literally helped our community rise.

Judi believed that life should be lived beautifully and that nails should be maintained accordingly. When she wasn’t improving the world, she enjoyed the quiet joy of her lakeside home, a mani-pedi that put diamonds to shame, time with family (dogs absolutely included), a good book, and the fine art of spoiling her grandson, Truman.

She was preceded in death by her beloved wife Beverly Camden, and leaves

later made, which led to armed officers of the law being called to the houses of these politicians who did not follow the governor’s and the White House’s wishes. Were the unbalanced people who made these illegal and certainly familyfrightening calls about people being harmed in the households of these noncompliant GOP politicians inspired by the latter words of Mr. Ellington? Because he then goes on to say we are in an “arms race” with a “Cabal of National Democrats” and refers to a “gerrymandering war.” No way of proving.

I live in beautiful Owen County. I have been in Greene County more times than I can count - it also is a lovely part of Indiana. Mr. Ellington’s vitriol and incendiary words are not needed in Greene nor in any other county which he wants to serve as a representing politician.

— Ed Staubach

Reported below are the no violation, critical and non-critical comments left for these establishments: 11-17

behind her wife Lucie Mathieu, her son Jacob Balash and his husband Jonathan Balash, and the grandson she adored, Truman Balash. Judi didn’t just love her family - she curated experiences for them, as though life itself were her favorite hobby.

Judi died on November 25, 2025, in Bloomington, surrounded by those who loved her fiercely. She left detailed instructions - naturally - that her farewell be a Celebration of Life, held not in hushed tones but in the ballroom of the Spencer Pride commUnity Center. In perfect Judi fashion, she requested it serve as a fundraiser.

Helping those in need locally

With any election changes come to us, whether it’s at the state level or the federal level or even higher. The reduction or elimination of funds in the areas of early learning, adult learning, food support, and community parks and recreation have taken a big hit. Our fellow Owen Countians have taken life-altering blows unless we at the county level can work to pick up the slack.

The Owen County Community Foundation has been working to help soften the blows. There are several funds that are currently available to support those Owen Countians in need.

Basically, the funds work as follows: Donations are provided by those who can. The funds are invested and managed by a professional group. Therefore, the money in each fund grows based on the market returns. Depending on the fund a

Gosport Elementary School, 201 N. Ninth St., Gosport. Routine

inspection. No violations 11-19 Patricksburg

The celebration will take place Saturday, December 20, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern, and attendees are encouraged to come honor Judi.

If you wish to honor Judi’s legacy, donations can be made to the Spencer Pride Fund at the Owen County Community Foundation. Flowers are lovely, but Judi was allergic to them and always preferred helping a community bloom.

Judi was a hard worker, a committed fundraiser, and a game changer - not just for Spencer Pride, but for anyone lucky enough to orbit her. Her absence leaves a void; her example leaves marching orders.

percentage of the balance is provided each year for those groups who are providing services. Individuals in need should be directed to those not-for-profit or government agencies that facilitate. The Owen County Community Foundation can guide donors and those in need.

The result is cash flow for perpetuity for each of those needs and a position to increase the value. The dollars in each fund are restricted. The funds can only be used for their designation. If you have further questions, please reach out to the Owen County Community Foundation, CEO, Janet Rummel. Janet is a wonderful lady who can help guide. — Tom Wallace

The Owen News Letters to the Editor policy can be found online at theowennews.org/ our-policies. Letters must be sent in one week prior to the publication date.

Elementary School, 9912 S.R. 246, Patricksburg. Routine inspection. No violations.

OCCF Scholarship Application now open

OCCF Press Release

The Owen County Community Foundation has opened its 2026 Scholarship Application, offering more than 65 scholarship opportunities for graduating high school seniors and adult learners pursuing higher education.

The application is now available and will remain open until Friday, Jan. 16, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Students can apply by creating an account at bit.ly/ OCCFscholarship.

Awards range from $500 to $40,000, with an average scholarship amount of $1,800.

In 2025, 48 percent of all applicants received at least one scholarship, and awards were distributed across a wide range of students and future educational goals.

In 2025, 63 scholarships totaling more than $145,000 were awarded to

42 students from Owen Valley High School, Cloverdale High School and surrounding communities.

Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors, students currently enrolled in college or vocational and technical programs, adults beginning college for the first time, adults returning to school after an extended break and students pursuing advanced degrees. Most scholarships are intended for individuals whose permanent residence is in Owen County. Students who are living in on-campus or off-campus housing remain eligible as long as their permanent address is within the county.

Some scholarships are general academic awards, while others are specific to township of residence, intended career field,

chosen college, extracurricular involvement, volunteer service or having family ties to legacy Owen County high schools such as Spencer, Freedom, Quincy, Patricksburg or Gosport.

Students can access the application by typing bit.ly/ OCCFscholarship into their browser or by visiting owencountycf.org/ students, selecting the STUDENTS tab, and clicking the Login to Scholarship Manager button. Students who are creating a new account should use a personal email address rather than a school email that will deactivate after graduation.

All required materials including transcripts, essays and third-party recommendation letters must be submitted by the Jan. 16 deadline. OCCF will offer in-person help sessions at the Owen Valley High

School library in the weeks leading up to the deadline. Applicants are also welcome to stop by the OCCF’s office located at 60 E. Market St. in Spencer for oneon-one application assistance.

All scholarship recipients are required to attend the Scholarship Awards Program on April 26, 2026, at the Owen Valley High School Auditorium to accept their awards and meet the generous donors behind the scholarships.

Students are encouraged to follow the Owen County Community

Foundation on Facebook and Instagram for reminders and updates.

For questions, contact Karah Bobeck, Director of Programs and Communications, at karah@ owencountycf.org or 812-829-1725.

About the Owen County Community Foundation

The Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF) is a public charity founded in 1994 as a resource to connect caring individuals with causes they support, enabling them to make a charitable impact

BRIEF | FROM PAGE 1

have fallen naturally or were dropped by park staff for safety reasons.

A $10 permit is required for each load, defined as an eight-foot standard pickup truck bed without any modifications including sideboards. Additional charges will be incurred for a larger truck and trailer load.

Permits are available at the park office from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Firewood is for personal use only and cannot be sold.

All proceeds will be used for resource management and restoration efforts at the park, including replacement of trees.

Drawing held for state fair queen program competition

A drawing was held Oct. 3 to determine the contestant order for all 82 counties entered into the 2026 Indiana State Fair Queen Program Competition. Owen County, represented by 2025 Miss Owen County Fair Queen MiaRose Hess, was selected for the 39th position. The 2026 Indiana State Fair Queen Program Competition will be held Jan. 3 and 4 at the Corteva Coliseum, located on the state fairgrounds in Indianapolis.

Merry Commons Light Up

A holiday light display is coming to Cooper Commons on

on the community. Since its founding, the OCCF has been able to grant more than $12.3 million to local students, area nonprofits and charitable organizations in our community. The OCCF is committed to enhancing the quality of life for all citizens of Owen County, now and for generations to come. For more information on how to begin your own philanthropic journey, please visit owencountycf. org, call 812-8291725, or stop by our office located on the Courthouse Square at 60 E. Market St., in Spencer.

E. Cooper St. in Spencer. A wide variety of Christmas lights and decorations will transform the park into a holiday wonderland beginning Dec. 6 and continuing through Jan. 11.

Initiated by the Spencer Parks & Recreation Board, donations to support this project can be made to the Town of Spencer Parks & Recreation Fund at the Owen County Community Foundation. To learn more, call 812-829-1725 or visit owencountycf.org.

Owen Valley Fire Territory receives DHS grant

The Owen Valley Fire Territory was recently awarded a grant from the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The grant enabled the department to purchase an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).

According to the website startinghearts.org, an AED is a compact, battery-powered medical device used to treat individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest (SCA). AEDs help restart the heart during a sudden cardiac arrest by analyzing the heart’s rhythm through sticky pads placed on the chest. If the device detects a dangerous rhythm like ventricular fibrillation (VF) or pulseless ventricular tachycardia (VT) it delivers a controlled electric shock that can reset the heart’s electrical activity, restore a normal rhythm and potentially save the person’s life.

FRIDAY, DEC. 5, 2025

Celebrating Christmas in Owen County

Staff Report

There are several ways to celebrate the Christmas holiday in Owen County throughout the month of December. Here are some of the local offerings this month:

Dec. 5

Cookies and Cocoa with Santa, 5 to 7 p.m. at the Canyon Inn inside McCormick’s Creek State Park, 451 McCormick’s Creek Park Rd., Spencer. Free.

Lieber State Recreation Area in Cloverdale will host its fourth annual Lieber Winter Lights celebration Dec. 5-7 and 12-14, from 6 to 9 p.m. Donations will be accepted for driving through the light display in the park and campground. Santa will visit on both of the celebrations Saturdays, Dec. 6 and 13, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Dec. 6

Donuts with Santa, 9 to 11 a.m. at Endeavor Communications, 2 West St., Cloverdale. Free donuts, crafts and pictures with Santa. Christmas at the Square, noon to 5 p.m., hosted by Spencer Main Street in downtown Spencer. Santa will arrive at the market around 12:30 p.m. before making his way to the Tivoli for

photos from 1 to 4 p.m.

The vendor market will take place on Washington and Franklin streets and inside the Spencer Pride commUnity center.

Owen County Heritage & Culture Center Christmas Open House, noon to 3 p.m., 110 E. Market St., Spencer, during Christmas at the Square. Check out the history museum, coffee shoppe and gift shop in the Old Spencer Carnegie Library building. Enjoy holiday refreshments. Free admission. For more information, visit owencountyindhistory. org.

Owen Valley Patriot Choirs will perform a holiday set during Christmas at the Square, 12:30 to 1 p.m. at the corner of Washington and Franklin streets in Spencer.

A Snoopy Christmas, 1 to 4 p.m., presented by the Owen County Chamber of Commerce, 120 S. Main St., Spencer. Crafts, toys and photo ops with Snoopy. Sponsored by Duke Energy.

Owen County Courthouse dome Christmas lighting ceremony, with entertainment by the Owen Valley Big Band, 5:30 to 6 p.m. Christmas in Cloverdale Lighted Parade, 6 p.m. in Cloverdale. Santa will be at the Icehouse

following the parade, ready for photo ops and for children to tell him their Christmas wishes. Complimentary hot chocolate and cookies will be available. Hosted by Cloverdale Main Street. A holiday light display is coming to Cooper Commons on E. Cooper St. in Spencer. A wide variety of Christmas lights and decorations will transform the park into a holiday wonderland beginning Dec. 6 and continuing through Jan. 11.

Dec. 9

Patricksburg

Elementary School Christmas Festivities, 5:45 to 7:30 p.m., 9912 S.R. 246, Patricksburg. The Christmas program begins at 5:45 p.m., followed at 6:15 p.m. by hot chocolate and cookies, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and the opening of Santa’s Workshop Store.

Dec. 12

Owen Valley High School Cheer Christmas Showcase at halftime of the varsity basketball game at OVHS. Spirit, sparkle and a little holiday magic. The varsity game begins around 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 13

Breakfast with Santa, 9 to 11 a.m. at the Cloverdale American Legion Post #281, 501 S.

Main St., Cloverdale. Enjoy free pictures with Santa, crafts with Boys Scouts, books and a small gift for kids under 12. Hosted by Cloverdale Main Street. Breakfast with Santa, 9 to 11 a.m. at the Cataract Lake Community Center, 5530 S.R. 42, Poland. Featuring crafts and pictures with Santa. Breakfast with Santa, 10 a.m. to noon at the Owen County Democratic Party headquarters, 152 E. Jefferson St., Spencer. Breakfast, free photo ops with Santa and gifts for the first 60 kids in attendance. Free.

Gosport Holiday Festival, Santas of the World, 12 to 5 p.m., presented by the Gosport Business Association. Cookie walk, cake/dessert walk, vendors, games and face painting, live nativity, ugly sweater contest, selfies with Santa, snowball drop and more.

OVMS/OVHS Patriot Choirs’ Sounds of the Season concert, 3 p.m. in the Owen Valley High School Auditorium, 622 S.R. 46W, Spencer. Admission is $5 (cash or card). Join the choirs for an afternoon of music, sparkle and holiday cheer. Doors open 30 minutes before the show.

Community Christmas Dinner, beginning at 5 p.m. at the Coal City American Legion Post #141, 4188 Main St., Coal City. Free.

Dec. 17

Free showings of “A Christmas Story,” 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Sponsored by Youth Service of Monroe County.

Dec. 18

Christmas Caroling, 6:30 p.m., meet at the Gosport Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 119 N. Seventh St., Gosport. Enjoy a hot chocolate bar immediately afterward.

Dec. 21

A Christmas Night of Worship, 6 p.m. at Owen Valley Christian Fellowship, 338 S.R. 43S, Spencer. Everyone is welcome.

Free showing of “The Man Who Invented Christmas,” 7 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Sponsored by the Amos family.

Dec. 23

Free showings of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” starring Jim Carrey, 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Sponsored by Elizabeth Ruh, Personal Financial Services, LLC.

OCHCC Christmas Open House this weekend

Press Release

The Owen County Heritage & Culture Center (OCHCC) will host a Christmas Open House on Saturday, December 6, from noon to 3 p.m., during Christmas at the Square.

OCHCC features a variety of displays showcasing the history of Owen County. While you’re there, visit the coffee shoppe to enjoy free holiday treats, such as homemade cookies and persimmon pudding, coffee and tea. The gift shop also features

books by local authors, greeting cards, prints of sketches and paintings by Ken Bucklew, Lloyd Wood Christmas CDs and Lloyd Wood Band live show CDs. Make plans to visit to learn about Owen County’s history and enjoy the warm, historic charm

of the old Spencer Carnegie Library building.

OCHCC is located on the southeast corner of the courthouse square at 110 E. Market St. in Spencer. Admission is free. For more information, visit owencountyindhistory.org.

2025 Owen County Quality of Place & Workforce Attraction Survey out now

Press Release

In 2019, all 11 Indiana Uplands counties came together through the Regional Opportunity Initiatives (ROI) Ready Communities initiative to develop and implement projects and programs that build quality of place, grow regional capacity for workforce development and attraction and improve attributes and amenities that make the Indiana Uplands a great place to live, work and play.

When the Ready Communities initiative launched initially, each county assembled a Quality of Place and Workforce Attraction

Committee (QPAT) made up of stakeholders from their county. These teams were charged with developing a prioritized plan that identified key areas of focus as well as projects and programs aligned with the plan. With plans completed, counties across the region were equipped to pursue resources to activate their plans. For example, ROI offered three rounds of quality of place grants. Owen County received funds for the South Main Street portion of the MYPath Trail System and improved sidewalks, planted trees, and installed streetlights, benches and signage. Communities also used their Quality

of Place and Workforce Attraction plans to inform applications for READI 1.0 and 2.0 funding. County plans can be found on the ROI website.

Six years later, Regional Opportunity Initiatives (ROI) has provided grant funding for county teams to update our Quality of Place and Workforce Attraction plans. Your participation in this short survey will shape the direction of Owen County’s plan. While our communities and schools are facing challenges, the update of these plans will allow each county to identify priorities and target strategies for sustaining regional

momentum. With plans in hand, counties and communities will be better equipped to maintain momentum,

seek resources and be ready when opportunities present themselves at the regional, state and national levels.

ON donations matched 2:1 through end of year, fundraiser event Dec. 15

Staff Report

The Owen News’s participation in NewsMatch 2025 continues through the end of the month..

NewsMatch is a collective, matching campaign through November and December for member publications of The Institute for Nonprofit News (INN), of which The Owen News is part of. NewsMatch provides a 1:1 match for any donations or memberships made to The Owen News. It also provides certain goalbased bonuses.

NewsMatch will match new or increased monthly pledges at the amount for the full year.

For example, a new recurring donation set up at $10 per month would be matched at $120 for the entire year.

Additionally, The Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF) is providing a local match of up to $20,000, creating a 2:1 match. This means that every dollar donated to support local, independent journalism will be tripled, helping us to fulfill our mission to be Owen County’s leading source of reliable and unbiased local news in order to foster an informed and engaged

community.

In addition to onetime donations, there are several ways to support The Owen News throughout November and December.

Fundraising Event at Tivoli

The Owen News will host “A Super Night to Save Local News,” a fundraiser screening of the original “Superman: The Movie” (1978) at 6 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 15 at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer.

The event will feature remarks from The Owen News board members and staff highlighting our upcoming projects. It will also include appetizers, adult beverages and a silent auction.

Tickets will cost $30 and will be made available online through theowennews. org and on our Facebook page. There will also be the ability to purchase reserved balcony seating for your group at an additional cost.

Businesses wishing to donate as part of the silent auction should email info@ theowennews.org.

Proceeds from the event and the silent auction, if paid by check or online will qualify for the match

through NewsMatch.

Renew or Sign up for a Membership

The Owen News will continue offering mailed copies of the paper to our members, making now the ideal time to renew your own membership or give the gift of news this holiday season.

As part of Newsmatch, the donation portion of the individual sponsorship or membership tier will both count toward the fundraising goal and will be considered tax deductible.

The membership tiers and benefits are as follows:

- Friends of the Owen News ($5 per month/ $60 per year): Benefits include: mailed print edition of The Owen News, access to membersonly merchandise that will have an exclusive annual design, a monthly e-newsletter with behind-thescenes insights, and recognition on The Owen News website.

- Headline Supporter ($15 per month/ $180 per year): Benefits include: all Friends of The Owen News benefits and an The Owen News tote bag.

- Columnist Champion ($25 per month/ $300 per year): Benefits include:

all Headline Supporter benefits, an The Owen News mug, your name listed in the printed edition of The Owen News, and a special invite to an exclusive quarterly virtual Q&A session with the editorial team.

- Editor’s Circle ($50 per month/ $600 per year): Benefits include: all Columnist Champion benefits, an Owen News travel mug, and special recognition in the annual member guide and report.

- Publisher’s Partner ($100+ per month/ $1,200+ per year): Benefits include: all Editor’s Circle benefits, an Owen News t-shirt, and a ¼ page ad for individual use (subject to The Owen News’ ad policy).

Give the Gift of News

This holiday season, consider giving the gift of news, specifically The Owen News. Gift memberships will also be matched 2:1, and The Owen News will send a special card letting them know that you’ve gifted them a one-year membership to The Owen News. All orders placed by Dec. 16 will have a card set out ahead of the USPS holiday deadline to arrive by Christmas. Gift orders placed after the deadline through the end of the year will

still receive the card, but The Owen News cannot guarantee that it will arrive before Christmas Day.

Those interested in making a donation or becoming a member can do so through OCCF or by contacting The Owen News at info@theowennews. org.

Individuals interested in volunteering with The Owen News should email volunteers@ theowennews.org. Volunteers are needed in several areas including as trained correspondents, fundraising and staffing festival booths to name a few.

“The non-profit news model allows us, first and foremost, to be a community partner in our community. But most importantly, by being a non-profit, The Owen News will forever be owned by our community,” Executive Editor Nicole DeCriscio said. “At the end of the day, the success of The Owen News thus far is a testament to the strength of our community, and we’re relying on community support to capitalize on this important fund-matching opportunity.”

FRIDAY, DEC. 5, 2025

also an economic development issue, a workforce issue, and just knowing that we needed to address it if we could,” Janet Rummel, CEO of OCCF said.

But identifying the need wasn’t enough.

“The issue was that there’s not a lot that a community foundation can do. We don’t provide childcare. We don’t open a center, and so there just really wasn’t any opportunity for us to move forward with any programs because there weren’t any programs wanting to expand. We were having a very hard time even attracting any providers to come here,” Rummel said.

Data from Brighter Futures Indiana indicate that Owen County has 1,393 children under the age of six and that 852 of those children may need care. Those defined as potentially needing care are children in either a single-parent household or a household in which both parents work. Brighter Futures Indiana data also suggests that 279 children in Owen County under the age of six are under 125 percent of the federal poverty line.

And prior to a year ago when Tiny Town expanded and added Tiny Town Learning Academy, Owen County had 267 known childcare spots throughout the county.

According to data from Early Learning Indiana, in August of 2024, Owen County’s Early Learning Access Index score was 43.17, compared to a state score of 63.8. This placed Owen County as the second lowest in 10 counties throughout the Indiana Uplands Region, behind Martin County with a score of 35.02. The other eight counties include: Brown with a score of 64.65; Crawford with a score of 44.95; Daviess with a score of 52.69; Dubois with a score of 47.86; Greene with a score of 46.13; Lawrence with a score of 51.82; Monroe with a score of 69.04; and Orange with a score of 61.17.

As a result, increasing access to affordable, high-quality childcare became the regional focus of a grant from Lilly Endowment, Inc.’s eighth phase of their Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT VIII) program. The Indiana Uplands Region through the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County received a $7.8 million grant to address the issue.

A Promising Expansion

As part of the regional grant, an Owen County Childcare Coalition was created.

Stephanie Freeman, who at the time owned a series of five in-home daycares known as Tiny

Owen Community Schools system.

“She won’t do anything less, even if she’s not getting paid for it. She won’t do anything less,” Stephanie’s husband Shane Freeman said.

Then, at a coalition meeting, it was announced that HeadStart would cease offering onsite services in Owen County, making the vacant building on Hillside Avenue an ideal spot for Tiny Town’s expansion.

The answer to the problem OCCF wanted to solve was right there, completely kismet, as Tiny Town Learning Academy was created, adding 80 spots to the 60 spots provided through Tiny Town Daycare.

“It was going to be great because it was going to be 80 additional seats. And other than the school system, she was the only provider in Owen County that was a level three on the Paths to Quality. So it would be high quality and those additional seats, so we were really excited about that,” Rummel said.

In the summer of 2024, Stephanie and Shane Freeman presented OCCF with a detailed business plan for the expansion.

“We felt very comfortable with the business plan and the waitlist that she had. We felt like this was going to really fill a big gap,” Rummel said.

OCCF gave Tiny Town Learning Academy a $150,000 grant for the purchase of materials for expansion, but Stephanie Freeman still needed additional funding to complete the necessary renovations to the building to meet state requirements.

So OCCF did something they hadn’t done before: invest in a local business.

“We made our very first ever community investment loan,” Rummel said.

do other investments. So this was our first time that we made our investment locally, and so we did a loan for her,” Rummel said. “We felt based on the business plan that everything would go smoothly.”

They were given a three-year loan with the first year consisting of interest payments only.

The Freemans were also optimistic about Tiny Town’s future.

“It should have been great… And it should have been excellent for everybody involved, the parents, the teachers, the kids, you know, the community,” Shane Freeman said. “They were very important partners in this venture, as far as coming to the center, and we’re very thankful for it.”

And it was working.

“The business plan was working fine. She was meeting her costs,” Rummel said, adding that there wasn’t the high staff turnover that plagues a lot of childcare facilities.

It was working, until a change at the state level trickled down.

Voucher Cuts Hit Home

In order to make childcare more affordable for low-income individuals and ensure that there is quality access to child care and educational opportunities, Indiana has a voucher program available through the Child Care Development Fund (CCDF). Some of the funding for these vouchers is provided through federal funding as well.

A few years ago, Indiana expanded eligibility requirements from 127 percent of the federal poverty level to 150 percent. But when added funding from the COVID-19 Pandemic ended and the growth exceeded what Indiana had to offer, the state had to make changes.

As a result, Indiana adjusted the eligibility requirements by lowering the threshold to 135 percent of the federal poverty line and adding in a requirement that the parents must either be employed or in school.

“The bottom line is that this program, both the CCDF program as well as the On My Way PreK program have grown substantially over the last five to seven years and the funding that we have hasn’t really kept pace with that. Thus the need for the waitlist that’s in place right now,” Bray said.

Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) lists 31,651 children on the CCDF waitlist across the state.

The creation of that waitlist happened to coincide with the opening of Tiny Town Learning Academy.

With new vouchers not being issued, Tiny Town couldn’t enroll new children.

Their hope was that the waitlist would open this fall.

“We knew something was coming. People would come in needing to go to work. We’d work out something, because we thought it’ll eventually open up. So we’ll go ahead and start watching the kids at a lower discounted rate, trying to help folks out trying to keep the building full, keep the employees paid, not really profiting, but in hopes it would come around,” Shane Freeman said. “It’s very important to us. It’s not been about money. It’s not really a lucrative business.”

they were told it would not be until 2027.

At the same time, the copays from parents also increased. And, according to Rummel, approximately 95 percent of the children at Tiny Town were on the vouchers.

“Parents couldn’t even afford their co-pays, especially those parents that have four or five children enrolled here with us. We had some as far as over $600 a week for their children to come here, and it was just impossible for parents. I mean, it’s more than their mortgage, and it just wasn’t doable,” MaKayla Freeman, daughter of Stephanie and Shane and an employee said. “But we also had to make the parents that were paying at a discount rate for us to stay open and keep things going at the rate that we were, we had to start making them pay full price for childcare, hoping that things would get better. And unfortunately, we had over half of our children pull out, just because they can’t afford it, which is completely understandable.”

To compound the problem even further, the voucher changes also impacted employees. Prior to the changes, employees of childcare facilities were moved to the top of the list and had expanded eligibility requirements to allow facilities to attract qualified employees.

“It wasn’t just that they reduced the reimbursement for that, they did away with it altogether,” Rummel said.

But the Freemans still tried to make it work.

Typically community foundations invest their permanent resources in traditional forms of investments.

“But as long as an investment would meet our investment target for

“So for that reason it became hard to maintain or sustain like it was, and so that’s why some changes were made,” Indiana Senator Rodric Bray said. Bray represents District 37, which includes parts of Owen County, and is the President Pro Tempore of the state

In late September, they were informed via email that the waitlist would not open until 2026. “They [said they] won’t be releasing vouchers until at least—at least was the keyword—at least 2027. They originally told us it would be Oct. 1 that people would start coming off the waitlist, so we waited it out,” Stephanie Freeman said. “I’ve been keeping this place open by the skin of my teeth.”

In early November,

“I mean, we searched high and low for a solution,” Shane Freeman said, adding that sometimes payroll would come out of their personal finances.

“I tried to reassure the parents when I told them, ‘Look, if we stay CHILDCARE | FROM PAGE 1

They had a parent meeting, during which Stephanie Freeman found herself unable to even speak because she was so distraught.

CHILDCARE | FROM PAGE 9

together, if the employees don’t quit, because if employees quit, we can’t keep the kids. If the parents pull out, we can’t pay the employees. So we got to stick this out, work together, put our mouths to work and express our concerns to legislation and let them know what is going on, or we don’t stand a chance,’” Shane Freeman said.

But when several families had to find care elsewhere, the delicate balance was destroyed. It left Tiny Town with approximately 20 children.

They considered using half of the building, but with no relief in sight and the inability to mix classrooms with different ages and maintain the desired level of quality, they were left with no other choice than to close both Tiny Town Daycare and Tiny Town Learning Academy.

Shane Freeman said that even without a lease, if they owned the building outright, and did not have a business loan, it would be extremely difficult for them to stay open.

“We’ve basically exhausted everything we have. When we’re done here, we’ll be able to pay the employees, and we owe a little bit on the lease,” he said. “I don’t know if we’ll be able to pay it all. I think [the landlord is] understanding.”

Community Fallout

For one parent and employee of Tiny Town, the closure means they will no longer be in the workforce, as they will be staying home with their children. They were unable to find childcare until August 2026.

The Owen News has granted the individual anonymity in an effort to minimize harm as they pursue future opportunities.

The parent had taken their children to Tiny Town for nearly a decade.

“I was a single mother at the time, and Stephanie Freeman was the only one in Owen County willing to wake up and take my children in the wee hours of the morning so I could provide for my young boys,” the parent said. “She loved them with her whole heart as she did with every child she met, and they loved her.”

And it isn’t just this one parent.

“We’ve got parents calling us crying because they don’t want anyone else to watch their children,” MaKayla Freeman said. “They don’t trust their child with anyone else. They refuse to send their child somewhere else. They have no idea what to do. And it all boils down to because they know Stephanie cares so much

and that she would do anything for any child here.”

The closure also impacts OCCF as a funder and partner in Tiny Town’s expansion.

“We wrote off the loan and converted it to a grant, so we’re out the loan essentially,” Rummel said. “We were able to reclaim the purchased materials, furniture and equipment.”

Some of those materials are currently being stored at Owen Valley High School, while others went to Spencer Elementary School to be used for their preschool and PreK program to be used immediately.

The loss of these CCFD vouchers has also impacted the results of the grant the Indiana Uplands Region received from Lilly Endowment, Inc.

“Since submitting the original proposal, Indiana’s ECE (Early Childhood Education) landscape has undergone significant shifts, presenting new challenges. Recent cuts to the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) and On My Way Pre-K (OMWPK) programs have drastically decreased access to childcare assistance for qualifying families. These changes have placed additional strain on providers who rely on public funding to serve low-income families and remain financially viable. As we continue implementation, these evolving challenges may require CFBMC and its partners to adapt creatively and collaboratively. While our long-term goals remain unchanged, the reduction in public assistance funding underscores the urgency to address access, quality, staffing and affordability of ECE through innovative, community-driven solutions,” a grant update report submitted on July 31 of this year reads.

The report continues, “As of May 2025, 574 children were on the CCDF waitlist across counties participating in this regional grant. The state also made changes to the OMWPK program. Enrollment has been capped at 2,500 children statewide, a sharp decrease from last year’s count of 6,000. Families who are engaged in a job search are no longer eligible to apply; parents must be working, in school, or in job training. Voucher support is strictly limited to the child in Pre-K, and other siblings will require their own CCDF vouchers. Finally, voucher funding is capped at $6,800 per child per year (approximately $147.82 per week for 46 weeks), a significant decrease from the previous rate of over $300 per week. Providers must now either absorb the funding gap or pass costs

on to families, threatening both affordability and sustainability. The changes to CCDF and OMWPK reduce the number of seats available, which may in turn result in staffing cuts. Neither is ideal for many reasons, including the potential implications for Ready Early Learning in the Uplands.”

Additionally, the Freemans are concerned about the impact stretching beyond just closing their business.

“The ripple that they’re creating is just going to be enormous, and they’re not looking at the entire picture,” Stephanie Freeman said.

She spoke about the importance of early childhood education and brain development for children in their first five years.

Rummel discussed how regardless of a family’s socioeconomic class, access to high quality childcare yields positive results, leading to increased kindergarten readiness and greater success in school.

“I’m concerned about all of them,” Freeman said of the families impacted, “but there’s one mother. She’s a single mother. She has three kids, she goes to work every day, and she makes $12 an hour.”

He later added, “I can’t get it out of my head, in my heart—$12 an hour and working every day trying to support three kids. What would that be like right now if everything’s good? With inflation like it is, could you bear that mental strain of trying to support three kids and yourself on $12 an hour? I couldn’t imagine.. and now, well, we’re taking this and this and this away.”

Rummel also brought up the challenges that children in Owen County face.

“The other thing is we know that 20 percent of the children five and under in Owen County are in poverty, which is higher than the state average… We also know particularly with the voucher students, sometimes a lot of these kids, even the little ones, they’re not getting enough to eat at home,” Rummel said.

She said that she has been told of children who eat more on Fridays to prepare for a weekend of not having enough to eat.

“So knowing that that’s what happens, and now they’re home, hopefully they are not going hungry,” Rummel said.

It’s a concern that Shane Freeman also cited from a previous example of a family at the in-home daycare who struggled to pay their bill, amounting to being approximately $10,000 behind.

“I’m like, ‘You know, it’s time; you’re going to have to do something.’And then [Stephanie] looked at me, and she said, ‘Well,

if they’re not here, I don’t know if they get fed. If they’re not here, they might just be locked in the basement.’ And you suddenly realize $10,000 is not that important,” he said.

Both also cited concerns of the increase of abuse and neglect.

“And then, also we do know that often a lack of available care can lead to increased cases of abuse and neglect,” Rummel said. “I hope that’s not the case, but we know statistically that’s what happens.”

Where Indiana Goes Next

Bray said that because 2026 is not a budget year for the legislature, they’re limited on what they can do to fix the situation.

“The challenge with that is it’s not a budget year,” he said. “We don’t typically open up the budget.”

Earlier this year, the Indiana legislature had to cut $2.4 billion from the budget as the fiscal revenue forecast decreased for the upcoming two years. CCFD was one of those that was limited.

“We don’t have a lot of ability to just go in and fund this more,” Bray said.

He said that FSSA made some interim changes by agreeing to pay for absenteeism to help families that need childcare less than fulltime. These families often struggled to find a provider, as only being compensated for the days a child attended placed a financial burden on childcare providers.

“It is a really serious challenge to be sure,” Bray said of childcare, “and we need to continue to try and figure out ways to be helpful.”

He said the state has tried to loosen regulations to reduce cost.

“But as we all know, when you increase regulation, government increases regulation, that makes being in business more expensive, and so we’ve tried to roll that back some over the last few years and in certain ways that are reasonable but not careless so that businesses can operate a daycare facility that is less expensive to operate,” Bray said. “And so I think that’s helped some, but again, we’ve got more work to do here, clearly.”

Shane Freeman said that they did not feel that the restrictions dropped as the support dropped.

“It sounds like you’re going to make money when you look at the rates and stuff, but what you don’t see is what goes on in this office, the state, the tape, the red tape, the regular regulations they have on it,” he said.

Bray said that finding a solution is important to the legislature and to him.

“It’s important that people know that we believe this is extremely important. Daycare has

been a priority bill of ours for the last couple of years, almost every session over the last few years, I believe. It’s a challenge. We recognize that it’s a challenge for families that really do need this service and the State of Indiana is trying to help, although we don’t really want to get fully into running daycare facilities on our own. We don’t think that is a good way to go. We need to try to make sure we are partnering with facilities that will provide this and not having the state do it itself,” Bray said.

He mentioned areas of the state in which companies have their own daycares and benefit from providing that service to their workforce.

“We’re watching those very closely to see if that is something that we can kind of pattern a policy after at scale and expand across the state of Indiana. So we are looking very closely at that because when you have everybody partnering together — state government, the businesses that benefit, as well as the families and maybe even nonprofit organizations — maybe that’s the best way to meet the need that’s out there right now,” he said.

That model, a tri-share split with employers, parents and local government or community foundations has been successful elsewhere.

“Through Indiana Philanthropy Alliance, I’m connected with all the community foundations around the state, and through the Lilly GIFT initiative, many foundations have tackled childcare in the last round of GIFT funding in GIFT VIII and some even did GIFT VII around childcare,” Rummel said. “Montgomery County opened one recently, and it’s a 100-seat facility, so they made a lot of gains. But unfortunately, just like here, they just had three providers close. So it’s almost like every time you make a step forward, it’s two steps back. It’s really upsetting. Until our state government puts money and local governments too put money into this, I just don’t see how it’s going to improve.”

For Stephanie Freeman, re-opening another facility in the future, if legislative changes make it feasible again, isn’t completely off the table, but for now, she’s “just sad.”

“I’m just sad all the way around. I’m sad for the state of Indiana. I’m sad that I’ve done this for 28 years and it’s now gone. I’m sad for all the kids that I know aren’t going to get fed and taken care of,” she said. “I’m sad; I’m hurt. But when one door closes, another door opens, and it’s in God’s hands.”

Nov. 10 meeting of the CCSC Board of School Trustees.

Linton, who began his career in public education at Gosport Elementary School in 1989, has served as CCSC superintendent since 2014.

“I’ve been blessed to serve in public education for the past 37 years, with experience as a teacher, building administrator and district leader,” Linton told The Owen News. “My time at Cloverdale Community Schools has been especially meaningful. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside dedicated educators, a supportive board and a community that genuinely puts students first. The years at CCSC have truly been a highlight of my career.”

Although the decision to step away was not easy, Linton said he believes the timing is right for him both personally and professionally.

“We are at a natural transition point as a district—we’ve built strong momentum, we have exceptional leadership at every level, and many of the major initiatives and long-term plans we’ve worked hard to develop are well underway,” he explained. “I’m grateful to be leaving at a time when the district is stable, thriving and positioned for continued success. In the remaining months of my contract, I look forward to establishing a smooth transition process, especially as we continue moving forward with our building and renovation projects. These upgrades will serve students well for

many years to come, and it’s exciting to see our vision becoming reality.”

Linton called Cloverdale a “truly special place” and said he’s grateful for the support he’s received since his arrival on campus more than a decade ago.

“Our teachers, administrators, support staff and bus drivers are exceptional professionals who care deeply about students,” he said. “The board of school trustees has consistently been supportive, student-focused and committed to the long-term success of the district. I will support the board in any way they request as they begin the search process, but the selection of the next superintendent is ultimately their responsibility. My goal is to ensure a smooth, well-planned transition so the next superintendent can step into this position with confidence.”

CCSC board president Vivian Whitaker noted at the close of the meeting that Linton plans to remain with the corporation at the close of his current contract, although in a different role. What exactly that role will be has yet to be announced publicly.

“Mr. Linton has come as close to my ideal of a superintendent as anybody I’ve worked with or been around,” she said.

Linton, a Clay County native and an Indiana State University graduate, also served for nearly five years as superintendent for Spencer-Owen Community Schools. In addition to his

CHARGED | FROM PAGE 1

Oscar Adrian Barrera Rubio, 31, faces one felony count of causing serious bodily injury while operating a vehicle and three misdemeanor charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated endangering a person, possession of marijuana and knowingly or intentionally operating a motor vehicle without ever receiving a license.

According to the probable cause affidavit filed by

KOHR | FROM PAGE 1

“I have loved watching this

time spent as a superintendent, Linton’s more than 35-year career has seen him serve as the principal at North Clay Middle School and Spencer Elementary School, as well as several other administrative roles and classroom teacher positions.

The Nov. 10 meeting began with routine matters, where the board approved meeting minutes for the work, executive and regular meetings held on Oct. 13, as well as tentative agreement and executive sessions held Oct. 27.

Next, the board voted 7-0 to approve the latest claims and financial reports, which Linton advised totaled $2,782,987.34 (including two payrolls) since the board’s previous meeting.

Regarding communications, the board recognized the corporation’s latest Student of the Month honorees, which included Cloverdale Elementary School (CES) students Jeriden Vaughn (October) and Rowan Harrison (November), Cloverdale Middle School (CMS) students Ella Bailey (October) and Emma Naughton (November) and Cloverdale High School (CHS) student Addison Collins.

Also recognized were Parker Pritchard and Elijah Ferran, who earned Good Citizen Awards, presented by CCSC School Resource Officer (SRO) Roger Tonna.

Traci Scott, English Language Arts teacher at CHS, was honored as the latest CCSC Staff Member of the Month.

Addressing new business, the board approved the contractual agreement between CCSC and the

Master Trooper William Brown of the Indiana State Police Bloomington District, “Rubio spoke broken English and with the help of a male bystander and a translator app I was able to administer a PBT (Preliminary Breath Test) to Rubio. The results of the PBT were 0.085 percent. With the use of a translator app, Rubio was read the Indiana Implied Consent for serious bodily injuries. Rubio did consent to a chemical test of his blood. Due to Rubio’s injuries, I could not

county grow and the downtown (Spencer) revitalization,” Kohr said. “I want to

have an open door where people feel comfortable coming to talk to me and know that they

Cloverdale Education association (CEA).

“The red line version that is included in the board packet will allow you to see where changes were made to the contract,” Linton advised. “The public hearing was held on Sept. 9, teachers ratified the contract on Oct. 23, and the board held the TA meeting on Oct. 27. The final step in the process is for the board to ratify the contract during this meeting. After the contract is approved, teachers will receive retro back pay to the start of their contracts on Nov. 20, and their new regular pay on Nov. 21.”

The board also approved pay increases for noncertified employees and administrators, as well as the Teacher Appreciation Grant (TAG) program, which underwent significant changes during the 2025 legislative session. Per Indiana Code 20-43-16, TAG was established to provide millions of dollars directly to schools and thousands of dollars to Indiana’s educators to attract, reward and retain teachers who significantly impact student outcomes.

House Enrolled Act (HEA) 1001-2025 outlines requirements which must be met to receive TAG dollars.

“In your board packet you will find the TAG grant process that our administrative team has developed to provide guidance and directions for our local application process,” Linton added.

Additional items receiving board approval included the 2025-26 Title I Grant, the addition of a homebound instructor for CMS, an instructional assistant

complete FSFT (Standardized Field Sobriety Tests). Rubio was asked for his driver’s license and he stated that he did not have one but only has his passport for identification.”

After receiving treatment for his injuries, Rubio was transported to the Owen County jail.

The accident injured Brooke and Austin Sheese who were on their way to pick up their children. A gofundme was created to assist their family with

are being heard. I appreciate so much the people who had faith in me and suggested I throw

position at CMS, stipends for the Clover Café manager and CCSC EF Tours liaison, six donations to CHS, 10 professional leave requests, five field trip requests and six facility use requests. Additional personnel matters receiving board approval included:

Retirement

Greg Linton –superintendent

Employment

Crystal Tincher – CES instructional assistant.

Jenny Wiggs – CMS instructional assistant. Lance Dooley – CMS long-term substitute.

Regina Wiley – CMS Drama assistant.

Ethan Stattner – CHS long-term substitute.

FMLA

Sandi Price – CES teacher.

Ken Schnepp – CHS teacher.

Coaching resignation

Camille Garcia –CHS cheer coach.

Brandon Moon –CMS boys’ basketball coach.

Coaching hire

Patrick Rady – CHS junior varsity boys’ basketball coach.

Paul Starks – CMS seventh grade girls’ basketball coach.

The Cloverdale Community School Board will meet again on Monday, Dec. 8 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.

medical expenses and the loss of income during their recovery. As of press time, the gofundme had raised $51,113 of the $55,000 goal. Updates to their recovery have also been posted on the gofundme page.

An initial hearing for Rubio was held on Nov. 24. A jury trial is currently scheduled for May 19, 2026.

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

my hat in the ring.” Kohr’s first official town council meeting followed on Nov. 17, where she joined fellow council members Jon Stantz and Evan McKalip.

LINCOLN DAY | FROM PAGE 1

The dinner featured a fireside chat with Governor Mike Braun and Lieutenant Governor Micah Beckwith moderated by Indiana Senate President Pro Tempore Rodric Bray and Owen County Republican Party Chairwoman Kristi Risk.

Protesters gathered with signs reading, “Braun cheats for

Trump,” “Hoosiers aren’t cheaters! No redistricting,” “Hear ye! Hear ye! Fund SNAP,” and “Listen to Hoosiers not Trump.” They beat upon a drum and yelled chants as folks entered the event.

But the protests outside didn’t deter the dinner inside.

The event started with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance before honoring distinguished guest John Sutton,

Indiana Military Veterans Hall of Fame Inductee and Owen County hero.

After dinner, Matthew Barnes, a volunteer chaplain for the Indiana Statehouse and the founder of the ministry Public Servants’ Prayer, explained what he does.

“I minister to the most maligned and disparaged people group in the world— politicians,” he said, evoking

laughter from the crowd.

Bray then offered a few opening remarks before introducing Braun and Beckwith.

“I think at the end of the day, a Lincoln Day dinner is simply a celebration. It is, if you will, a way to define exactly who we are as a party and who we are as a state. And it’s a time to celebrate all the accomplishments that we’ve had. And let me just be very clear, we’ve got some

to talk about here in the state of Indiana that we have been able to achieve over the last few years,” he said.

He cited Forbes deeming Indiana the best state in the country to start a business.

“We’ve watched business come from other states and from other nations. In 2017 we broke a record for capital investment in Indiana. It’s $2 billion, over $2 billion. I remember at the time being ecstatic about the

Indiana. Since that time in 2017, we’ve broken that record in 2018. 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024,” he said.

That capital investment is now north of $39 billion, which Bray said has brought jobs to Indiana.

Bray also spoke about educational progress surrounding the importance of reading in which Indianapolis Public Schools saw a 10 percent increase in their iRead scores this past year and

‘Doughboy’ takes center stage at Veterans Day program

By Travis Curry Senior Correspondent

Mother Nature prompted a last-minute change to this year’s Veterans Day program, with organizers opting to move the Nov. 11 program indoors to the warmer confines of the Spencer VFW Post #1405. Historically, the annual event has been held on the northwest lawn of the Owen County Courthouse, with attendees gathering around the “Spirit of the American Doughboy” statue as they honor military veterans of our nation’s Armed Forces.

the grounds of county courthouses. Indiana is home to 11 such statues.

Despite the change in venue, the “Doughboy” once again took center stage as Owen County Historian Tony Neff shined the spotlight on the late Spencer sculptor Ernest Moore Viquesney and his famed pressed copper statue. The program was originally intended to include a rededication of the statue, which remains the focus of an ongoing restoration project.

“Today we honor and recognize the veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces,” Neff began. “Today we witness the revitalization of the ‘Spirit of the American Doughboy,’ the life-sized statue designed by Spencer native Ernest Moore ‘Dick’ Viquesney. It was designed to honor the veterans and casualties of World War I, so the sacrifice of the men and women who gave so much to preserve our freedom may never be forgotten.”

Produced during the 1920s and 1930s for communities throughout the United States, Neff said the statue’s design was the most popular of its kind. A total of 145 are known to be in prominent places in 38 states, he noted, including 35 on

“Viquesney was born in Spencer in 1876,” Neff continued. “His father, a French immigrant, was a stone mason who moved to Spencer in 1874 and started a monument business where Dick presumably learned his skill as a sculptor.”

Viquesney was himself a military veteran, having served as a corporal stationed at Pensacola, FL during the SpanishAmerican War in 1898.

“He was a patriotic and community-minded man,” Neff explained. “He was a founder and the commander of the Spencer SpanishAmerican War Veterans Post.”

Neff later told how Viquesney relocated from Spencer in 1905 and went on to work for several monument companies. While employed as a chief designer by Schneider Marble Company in Americus, Georgia between 1918 and 1920, Viquesney designed the “Doughboy” statue we know today.

“He was meticulous about details,” Neff said. “He interviewed veterans, studied hundreds of photographs, and used two models in full uniform to perfect his statue of the ‘Doughboy’ to the finest detail. In 1921 the first

‘Doughboy’ was toured by train so respective buyers could see the statue. It was eventually installed in Nashville, Georgia.”

Viquesney returned to Spencer in 1922, Neff said, and four years later offered to sell the County its own ‘Doughboy’ for $1,000, which was the cost he said it took to produce each statue.

Raising money for the “Doughboy” proved to be a community affair following a suggestion made by Carl Anderson, editor of The Owen Leader, in January of 1926. The Owen County Board of Commissioners would contribute $300, although it would take until January 1927 before enough money ($1,236) would finally be raised. The addition of a Romona limestone base at a cost of $200 would bring the total cost to $1,436, which in today’s dollars would be roughly $27,000.

Neff said the statue was officially dedicated on May 19, 1927 to coincide with Decoration Day, which today we know as Memorial Day. Some 3,500 guests were in attendance for the dedication, led by Capt. Joseph Clark who served as the master of ceremonies.

Neff said the statue was “unveiled by Mrs. Hight, whose son Edward

FROM LEFT: Honor Guard member Ted Baugh (background) looks on as Sharron Barger, Past Department President and current Secretary of the VFW Post #1405 Auxiliary, Post #1405 Senior Vice Commander Matt Fletcher, and VFW Post #1405 Auxiliary Buddy Poppy Queen Ellie Reagan prepare to lay ceremonial wreaths during the recent Veterans Day program held at Post #1405. // The “Spirit of the American Doughboy” statue located on the Owen County Courthouse lawn remains the focus of an ongoing restoration project. Additional photos can be found online at theowennews.org. TRAVIS CURRY | THE OWEN NEWS

was the first Owen County man to be killed in service during World War I, and Mrs. Call, whose son Leland was the first Owen County man killed while in action in World War I.”

This year’s Veterans Day program also featured remarks by former VFW Post #1405 Commander Ted Mangin, a ceremonial three-volley salute and the playing of Taps by the Owen County Honor Guard, and the ceremonial laying of wreaths by officials from the VFW Post #1405, Spencer American Legion Post #285 and the Gosport VFW Post #7850.

The ongoing Owen County Doughboy Revitalization Project is focused on restoring

the statue and transforming its setting into a welcoming, accessible plaza where history, community and remembrance come together. The design includes a concrete plaza with seating for gatherings and ceremonies; landscaping and lighting to enhance security and highlight the Doughboy at night; obelisk monuments honoring each branch of the U.S. military; and concrete benches that will both invite reflection and protect the courthouse by serving as a safety barrier. To donate to the project, visit bit.ly/ DoughboyFund or contact the Owen County Community Foundation at 812-829-1725.

Owen Valley High School Sports Calendar

Dec. 5

6 p.m. – Junior varsity boys’ basketball vs West Vigo at Owen Valley.

7:30 p.m. – Varsity boys’ basketball vs West Vigo at Owen Valley.

Dec. 6

9:30 a.m. – Girls’ wrestling at Western Indiana Conference meet at Owen Valley.

Dec. 8

6 p.m. – Freshman boys’ basketball vs Monrovia at Owen Valley.

Dec. 9

6 p.m. – Junior varsity girls’ basketball vs Bloomington North at Owen Valley.

7:30 p.m. – Varsity girls’ basketball vs Bloomington North at Owen Valley.

Dec. 10

6 p.m. – Co-ed varsity wrestling vs Northview at

Northview.

6 p.m. – Girls’ wrestling vs Northview at Northview.

Dec. 11

6:30 p.m. –Girls’ wrestling vs Bloomington North at Bloomington North.

Dec. 12

6 p.m. – Junior varsity boys’ basketball vs Brown County at Owen Valley.

6 p.m. – Varsity girls’ basketball vs Brown County at Owen Valley.

7:30 p.m. – Varsity boys’ basketball vs Brown County at Owen Valley.

7:30 p.m. – Junior varsity girls’ basketball vs Brown County at Owen Valley.

Dec. 13 8 a.m. – Girls’ wrestling at Southridge Girls’ Wrestling Tournament.

9 a.m. – Co-ed varsity wrestling at

Bishop Chatard Invite.

10:30 a.m. – Varsity boys’ basketball at South Vermillion Border Battle.

Noon – Varsity girls’ basketball vs South Vermillion at South Vermillion.

Dec. 15

6 p.m. – Freshman boys’ basketball vs West Vigo at Owen Valley.

Dec. 16

6 p.m. – Co-ed varsity wrestling vs Greencastle at Owen Valley.

6 p.m. – Junior varsity girls’ basketball vs Linton-Stockton at Owen Valley.

7:30 p.m. – Varsity girls’ basketball vs Linton-Stockton at Owen Valley.

Dec. 18

6 p.m. – Junior varsity girls’ basketball vs Terre Haute North at Terre Haute North.

6:30 p.m. –

Cloverdale High School Sports Calendar

Dec. 5

6 p.m. – Varsity girls’ basketball vs Edgewood at Edgewood.

7:30 p.m. – Varsity boys’ basketball vs Edgewood at Edgewood.

Dec. 6

9 a.m. –Girls’ wrestling at Monrovia Invitational at Monrovia.

9 a.m. – Varsity wrestling at Cascade five-way duals at Cascade.

7:30 p.m. – Varsity boys’ basketball vs Southmont at Cloverdale.

Dec. 9

6 p.m – Co-ed varsity wrestling vs North Vermillion at North Vermillion.6 p.m. – Varsity boys’ wrestling vs North Vermillion at North Vermillion.

Dec. 11

6:30 p.m. – Varsity girls’ basketball vs Crawfordsville at Crawfordsville.

Dec. 13

9 a.m. – Varsity boys’ wrestling at Kenny Kerns Invite (County) at South Putnam.

9 a.m. – Co-ed wrestling at Kenny Kerns Invite (County) at South Putnam.

6 p.m. – Varsity girls’ basketball vs Central Christian Academy at Cloverdale.

7:30 p.m. – Varsity boys’ basketball vs Central Christian Academy at Cloverdale.

Dec. 16

6 p.m. – Junior varsity boys’ basketball vs South Putnam at Cloverdale.

7:30 p.m.

– Varsity boys’ basketball vs South Putnam at Cloverdale.

Dec 18

6 p.m. – Varsity boys’ wrestling vs North CentralFarmersburg at Cloverdale.

6 p.m. – Co-ed varsity wrestling vs North CentralFarmersburg at Cloverdale.

Dec. 19

6 p.m. – Varsity girls’ basketball vs Brown County at Cloverdale.

6 p.m. – Junior varsity boys’ basketball vs Brown County at Cloverdale.

7:30 p.m. – Varsity boys’ basketball vs Brown County at Cloverdale.

Dec. 20

1:30 p.m. – Varsity girls’

Girls’ wrestling vs Greencastle at Owen Valley.

7:30 p.m. – Varsity girls’ basketball vs Terre Haute North at Terre Haute North.

Dec. 19

6 p.m. – Junior varsity boys’ basketball vs Monrovia at Monrovia.

7:30 p.m. – Varsity boys’ basketball vs Monrovia at Monrovia.

Dec. 20

9 a.m. – Co-ed varsity wrestling at Bo Henry Classic at Bloomington North.

1 p.m. – Junior varsity girls’ basketball vs Bedford North Lawrence at Owen Valley.

2:30 p.m. – Varsity girls’ basketball vs Bedford North Lawrence at Owen Valley.

Dec. 23 9 a.m. – Co-ed varsity wrestling at Mt.

basketball vs South Vermillion at South Vermillion.

6 p.m. – Junior varsity boys’ basketball vs Riverton Parke at Riverton Parke.

7:30 p.m.

– Varsity boys’ basketball vs Riverton Parke at Riverton Parke.

Vernon Invitational.

Dec. 26 9 a.m. – Co-ed wrestling at Holiday Classic.

Dec. 27 9 a.m. – Co-ed and girls’ wrestling at Beech Grove Holiday Classic.

Jan. 2

9 a.m. – Junior varsity girls’ basketball at Rascals Fun Zone Holiday Invitational.

10 a.m. – Varsity girls’ basketball at Rascals Fun Zone Holiday Invitational.

10 a.m. – Junior varsity girls’ basketball at Rascals Fun Zone Holiday Invitational.

Jan. 3

4:30 p.m. – Junior varsity boys’ basketball vs Riverton-Parke at Owen Valley.

6 p.m. – Varsity boys’ basketball vs Riverton-Parke at Owen Valley.

Dec. 29

Varsity girls’ basketball at Cloverdale Holiday Invite at Cloverdale.

Dec. 26 to Dec. 30 Varsity boys’ basketball at First Financial Classic at Terre Haute South.

Driftwood Outdoors: Processing adds to hunting experience

By Brandon Butler Guest Columnist

It’s becoming harder to find quality deer processors. The good ones are so covered up in work, they can continue to raise prices, but the customers keep coming. I tried a new place this year and was charged 50 cents for every onepound bag my ground meat was stuffed into. A lot of hunters can’t afford or just don’t want to pay $200 to have a deer processed. The alternative is an investment of time.

Here is a look at the tools you’ll want for a basic at-home butcher shop.

Game Processing Knife Set

You’re going to need more than one knife to properly butcher an animal. You’re also going to need a meat saw. You need a skinning knife, a butcher knife and a boning knife. A skinning knife has a large round blade and dull point. A butcher knife has a large, heavy, sharp blade. A boning knife has a narrow blade and sharp point for slicing meat off the bone. A meat saw has a long, fine-tooth blade for cutting through meat and bone.

Electric Meat Slicer

When you go to the deli and ask for lunch meat, the person behind the counter

slices it on a meat slicer. You want one of these machines in your home butcher shop. You can set the blade to cut different thicknesses. You can use a meat slicer to craft perfectly uniform loin steaks or cut hams into thin strips of steak. Smoke a couple of wild turkey breasts and slice them into lunchmeat.

Manual Meat Tenderizer and Jerky Slicer

Once you have sliced your steaks, you can run them through the tenderizer. Some people say venison is tough and gamey. Take big flat pieces of meat and run them through a tenderizer to produce perfectly sized jerky pieces ready to be seasoned then smoked or dehydrated. It doesn’t take buying too many bags of gas station beef jerky to understand this economic benefit.

Dehydrator

Jerky is just dried meat. A dehydrator dries meat. First cure your meat, then place the strips on the tray and set the temperature and timer. Bigger is better but a four-tray dehydrator will get you started. An eight-tray or larger will make short work of jerky strips.

Grinder

After slicing steaks and backstraps, you’re

left with miscellaneous pieces you’ll want to grind. Go over the carcass cutting off all meat you aren’t saving as steaks or roasts and drop it in a meat lug. Use a grinder to turn these pieces into ground meat. Grinders come with plates to regulate thickness and tubes for injecting sausage casings. Grinders also allow you to mix beef or pork fat into your wild game. Meat needs to be cold when grinding.

Mixer

For mixing seasoning into ground meat before turning it into jerky or sausage, a meat mixer is the ticket. Not only does it make the task much easier on your forearms, but it also spreads the seasoning out uniformly. With a mixer like the 10- and 20-pound meat mixers allow you to season a lot of meat at once.

Sausage Stuffer

Once your ground meat is mixed with seasoning, use a sausage stuffer to fill casings. Casing comes in different sizes for summer sausage and snack sticks. Dump the mixed ground meat in the canister and attach the right sized tube. Hi Mountain Seasoning’s Sausage Kits have everything you need.

Burger Press

Perfect burgers are

formed with a burger press. A simple single burger press makes every patty uniform. Adjust the thickness to build whatever size burgers you desire. You need to separate burgers with a piece of wax paper. You’ve seen the stacks before with frozen burgers separated that way. You need to do the same. Vacuum seal or package your burgers in freezer paper.

Smoker

If you consider yourself a sportsman and don’t already own a smoker, you need one. Smoked wild game roasts, loins, lunchmeat and especially sausage will get you through the year. Electric smokers make the job easier. I’ve used one for years that drops wood discs automatically.

Vacuum Sealer

Vacuum sealers package your game air-free, reducing freezer burn. They suck the air out and seal the package so no air can get in. You can store vacuum-sealed meat for years. Some food sealers can be used with a 12 volt DC adaptor – if you are trying to process an animal in the field this is helpful.

Accessories

You’ll need basic accessories. For ground meat, use weightspecific freezer bags.

Freezer paper and freezer tape are also necessary if you are not vacuum sealing. Meat lugs are big plastic tubs you want for holding meat at different stages of the butchering process. An apron is nice. A highquality knife sharpener is a must. So are rubber processing gloves.

You can purchase everything covered in this article for under $1,000. When you consider how much it costs to have a deer butchered, especially when you have jerky and sausage made, the savings add up quickly. Sharing equipment with hunting buddies is an option. If you go three ways, your portion of the expense equals the cost of having a couple of deer butchered.

Not only is butchering your own animals cost-effective, but it also adds an entire element to being a hunter. You killed this animal, and now you are processing it. You own every step of the process from the field to the dinner table. The core of being a hunter is to provide meat for the dinner table.

See you down the trail…

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

Outdoor Type: Wonders of wildlife, part I

By Larry LaGrange Guest Columnist

On a trip to England a few years ago, my wife and I were blessed to see so many fascinating sights, from the Queen’s plush royal palace to the humble, rustic, tiny cottage of William Wordsworth in the beautiful lake district up north. One of the poet’s quotes resonates with me as I reflect on the year I’ve had pursuing fish and game:

“Come forth into the light things, let nature be your teacher.”

Like the poet, I feel there is something truly inspiring about being outdoors, whether or not you’re angling or hunting, or just taking a walk through the woods. The cares of the day disappear. It’s better therapy than taking a pill. Nature teaches us to slow down and look at what’s in front of us, instead of checking who’s texting us. I’m sure many folks in the future will be cursed with neck pain as they grow older—too much looking down at a screen. I’m blessed with

having hobbies that entertain and challenge me—fishing, then golf, and hunting in the winter. I feel sorry for folks who retire without a hobby that really turns their crank. I’ve seen quite a few men in that situation. Perhaps it’s why so often males pass away fairly soon after retirement.

Maybe a goal for this year would be to find something, preferably outdoors related, that you can sink your teeth and your spare time into.

If you’re looking for an outdoor-related getaway this winter that’s indoors, consider heading west past St. Louis on I-44 to Springfield, Missouri. There you’ll find what Bass Pro owner Johnny Morris has created, the Wonders of Wildlife Aquarium and Museum, next to his original Bass Pro Shop. It’s hard not to overstate how amazing this place is. My wife and I just returned from visiting family in Springfield. I vividly recall my first experience there a few years ago. The brochure said it was a mile and

a half walk-through, so one needs to allow four hours or so. My wife and I and grandson thought that was a bit much, but it turned out to be accurate. We started at 10 a.m. so lunch would break up our tour, and it was a good plan. A café with appetizing choices situated between attractions was a muchneeded break. The cost of admission can be found on their website. It might sound pricey, but you get what you pay for, in spades. If you’re older like my wife and I, pause for rest breaks, because it’s a long but delightful journey through this wildlife wonderland.

Johnny’s video of his reasons for starting this gigantic project starts off things. He gives compelling reasons for enjoying and taking care of our precious outdoor gifts. He is a true conservationist who’s been all over the world pursuing fish and game, and his take on why we need to all be aware of the delicate balance that sustains wildlife is well presented. We all must

Owen Valley Middle School Sports Calendar

Dec. 8

6 p.m. – Girls’ basketball vs Clay City at Clay City.

Dec. 9

6 p.m. – Seventh-grade boys’ basketball vs Tri-North at Owen Valley.

6 p.m. – Eight- grade boys’ basketball vs Tri-North at TriNorth.

Dec. 11

6 p.m. – Girls’ basketball vs White River Valley at Owen Valley.

Dec. 16

6 p.m. – Seventh-grade boys’ basketball vs Clay City at Clay City.

6 p.m. – Girls’ basketball vs

do our part to conserve and protect all game and our environment.

After the video comes an immersion into the world of wildlife. From great art to amazing reproduction mounts of every animal one can conceive of, it’s just one mind-boggling display after another.

The first hall deals with well-displayed artifacts of the American Indian, our first outdoorsmen and conservationists. From these artifacts one gets a feeling of true admiration and appreciation for Native Americans. Then it’s an artistic tribute to Lewis and Clark, followed by portraits by outdoorsman President George W. Bush. Further on, it’s all manner of wildlife left and right set up in beautiful displays.

Example: I’ve seen bighorn sheep mounts, but I’ve never been in a giant room that made me feel like I was on a western mountain with sheep all around. I’ve seen lion and elephant mounts but never have I been made to feel that

Sullivan at Sullivan.

7 p.m. – Eighth-grade boys’ basketball vs Clay City at Clay City.

Dec. 17

6 p.m. – Seventh-grade boys’ basketball vs White River Valley at Owen Valley.

I was actually on an African safari watching them on the plains. It’s an immersion experience.

Your children may be concerned about how all these beautiful creatures ended up here and not somewhere in the wild. A media rep told me that the animals “were acquired from private collections or donated from zoos after they died from natural causes. Every animal featured inside Wonders was responsibly acquired in accordance to local, state, federal and international laws. A small percentage of the animals featured are scientifically accurate authentic recreations.”

After the animal segment and lunch, it’s on to the aquarium. Lots to talk about there. You’ve been to aquariums, but you really need to check this one out. We’ll get into that and more next time.

Remember to conserve, protect and enjoy our bountiful American outdoors. Happy 2026.

7 p.m. – Eighth-grade boys’ basketball vs White River Valley at Owen Valley.

Jan. 6

6 p.m. – Seventh-grade boys’ basketball vs Shakamak at Owen Valley.

6 p.m. – Girls’ basketball vs Tri-North at Tri-North.

7 p.m. – Eighth-grade boys’ basketball vs Shakamak at Owen Valley.

Trailing or Leading: Time for a plan

By Kyle Hannon Project Manager, MYPath Trail System

We all know where it is right now. We all know where it’s supposed to go. We all know where it is supposed to go after that. However, we do not know how to connect those dots. What we need now is a plan.

When the MYPath trail system was envisioned by the Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF), the idea was to join the Owen County Family YMCA on the west side of town to

McCormick’s Creek State Park with a path. Since that time, with the help and support of the OCCF, and the encouragement of the public, the trail has made remarkable progress toward its goal. Most notably, the ribbon cutting last fall of the new, paved, trail along the White River that has created the first multiuse trail in the county.

MYPath is very popular. Nearly 2,000 people each month are on the trail, all ages, all abilities, enjoying the main trail and the natural surface side paths. When those users reach the end of the trail at River Road, they are less than two miles from the McCormick’s Creek gatehouse.

Now what?

How do we close that gap? And then, how do we start connecting to Flatwoods Park in Monroe County, where our neighbors’ trail will be reaching.

Today, I could draw this all out on a map. But that would be pointless. I haven’t asked anybody for permission. I don’t have the money. I don’t know what the community actually wants.

From the beginning, MYPath has been a community trail. Most of the route from the YMCA is on sharedsurface public right-of-way, like sidewalks. Now we are getting into areas where we will cross rough terrain and

private ownership. It is time for the community to drive this process.

The Owen County Commissioners have applied for a planning grant from the Indiana Department of Health. If we are awarded this grant, we will be able to work with experts and hold public meetings. We can talk about possible routes. We can evaluate costs. We can draft the likely route for MYPath, as preferred by the community. Stay tuned. Please take part in these meetings. Your input is valuable.

When the County Comprehensive Plan was updated in 2022, MYPath expansion was talked about in

several sections.

I have mentioned in this column that there is a real economic benefit to expanding the trail. The health benefits of a recreational trail like MYPath are also important to this community.

Why not Spencer? Why not Owen County?

You have seen recreational trails in other parts of the state. They are sources of pride for those communities. There is no reason we can’t have a trail like that, if not better.

Last week I attended the ribbon cutting for the new pickleball and tennis court facility at Cooper Commons. Adults were excited and kids were playing. I walked to the

ribbon cutting from MYPath, where I had just witnessed, on the trail, adults being excited and kids playing. Isn’t this the future you want for this community?

More than once, I have heard people on MYPath say, “I can’t believe we have something like this in Spencer.” Well, you better believe it. And it’s only going to get better.

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.

Spencer-Owen Schools honor local veterans

By Kris Samick S-OCS Director of Communications

Spencer-Owen Community Schools proudly recognized the courageous men and women who have served our nation during a series of heartfelt Veterans Day programs across the district. Their selfless dedication and sacrifice have protected the freedoms we hold dear, and our school community came together to express its deep and lasting gratitude.

Each year, SpencerOwen schools set aside time to honor veterans, and this year’s events were filled with pride, patriotism and reflection. At the elementary level, students and staff worked together to create meaningful tributes. Veterans were invited into the schools for special presentations, giving students an opportunity to shake hands, say thank you and learn firsthand about the true meaning of service.

Gosport Elementary hosted a lively Veterans Parade, where students lined the school grounds to cheer on veterans as they drove by, waving flags and handmade signs. Patricksburg Elementary showcased their honored guests with an Honor Walk through the building, followed by a special

breakfast prepared in appreciation of their service. At McCormick’s Creek Elementary, families and veterans gathered for a warm and moving patriotic program featuring music performed by students.

Spencer Elementary held a studentled convocation, recognizing each veteran in attendance and celebrating their contributions to our country.

At the secondary level, the tributes continued with powerful messages and solemn ceremonies. Owen Valley Middle School welcomed Medal of Honor recipient Sammy L. Davis and his wife, Dixie, as honored guests. Their visit brought an inspiring message of courage and commitment.

The school’s JROTC program presented the traditional flag-folding ceremony, reminding all in attendance of the symbolism and respect behind this timehonored ritual.

Owen Valley High School held its annual convocation in the auditorium, led by the JROTC and featuring music, speakers and expressions of gratitude from students and staff. The program highlighted the importance of recognizing and thanking veterans, not just on Veterans Day, but throughout the year. These moments across the district were more than

ceremonies—they were lessons.

S-OCS believes in teaching students the importance of honoring those who have served. By learning about the sacrifices made by past and present

Cloverdale Middle School Sports Calendar

military personnel, students gain a deeper understanding of gratitude, courage and patriotism. These values help ensure that the spirit of freedom continues to thrive in future generations.

As our community reflects on Veterans Day, S-OCS extends its heartfelt thanks to all veterans. Their bravery and dedication continue to inspire, reminding us all of the true meaning of service.

More than books: The evolving story of OCPL

By Brittany Van Hook OCPL Director

Time has certainly County Public Library (OCPL).

As I sit here writing this article on my eight-month anniversary as director, I’m amazed at how quickly the days have gone by. In some ways, it feels like I’ve been here forever; in others, it feels like I just walked through the doors for the first

time.

Each day has been filled with new learning experiences. I’ve discovered things I never imagined I’d need to know, like elevator maintenance and construction processes. But above all, I’ve learned just how vital the library is to our community. The days of libraries serving solely as places to access information are long behind us. Today, a library is a resource for space, knowledge, connection and time.

On any given day, all our reservable rooms are bustling, social care workers meeting with clients, online students focused on their coursework and

groups of friends using the library as a welcoming home base. Our Community Room regularly hosts local organizations and groups, and we’ve welcomed many classrooms who visit the Read and Feed Garden as a field trip destination.

I would be remiss not to highlight the importance of our programs and outreach. We continue to maintain strong partnerships with each Spencer-Owen Community Schools school, whether through program visits or weekly bookmobile stops.

Here at the library, our programming has expanded significantly, offering Owen County

Celebrating Owen County 4-H: A

By Cassie Linville 4-H Youth Development Educator

as a cornerstone of youth development, leadership and community engagement. Rooted in the national 4-H movement that began in the early 1900s, Owen County’s program has grown from modest beginnings into a vibrant organization that continues to shape the lives of local youth.

The 4-H movement started as a way to teach rural youth practical skills in agriculture and home economics, while

fostering character and responsibility. Indiana was among the early adopters, and Owen County quickly embraced the program. By the 1920s, local clubs were forming under the guidance of the Purdue Extension Service, which remains the backbone of 4-H programming today.

Early Owen County 4-H clubs focused on hands-on learning through projects such as crop production, livestock care and sewing. These activities were more than hobbies—they were essential life skills for families who relied on farming and homemaking. Club meetings often took place in schoolhouses or community halls, where young members pledged their “Head, Heart, Hands and Health” to better themselves and their

STYLE STATION

communities.

residents a growing variety of free activities and resources. Some of our newest offerings include legal advice from the IU Maurer School of Law and in-depth genealogy programming. And this is just the beginning— keep an eye out for author visits and more exciting events to come.

Our adult education program has also grown tremendously. This year, we added four new certification classes to the schedule, all at no cost to students. We are thrilled to see this program continue to expand and support the needs of our community. We also continue to curate a robust

collection of nonfiction and fiction books, movies and CDs for patrons to enjoy. This year, we launched our new Library of Things, allowing patrons to check out items like wagons, tents, tools and yard games. And of course, Libby remains your portal to e-books, magazines, podcasts and audiobooks. OCPL truly has something for everyone.

If you haven’t been to the library recently, I encourage you to stop in and see what we can do for you. We are a lot more than a place for books these days. The OCPL is located at 10 S. Montgomery St. in Spencer and can be reached by calling 812829-3392.

century of youth development

As decades passed, Owen County 4-H evolved to meet changing times. The mid-20th century saw an expansion of project areas beyond agriculture, introducing topics like photography, woodworking and public speaking. The annual Owen County Fair became a highlight for members, offering a chance to showcase their hard work and compete for ribbons. For many families, the fair was—and still is—a cherished tradition that brings the community together.

Leadership development has always been at the heart of 4-H. Owen County youth have participated in state and national conferences, served as Junior Leaders, and taken on roles that prepare them

for future careers. Alumni often credit their 4-H experience with teaching them confidence, responsibility and teamwork—skills that last a lifetime.

Today, Owen County 4-H serves hundreds of youth from kindergarten through 12th-grade. Mini 4-H introduces younger children to the program with fun, age-appropriate activities, while older members tackle projects ranging from robotics and environmental science to creative arts and animal husbandry. Programs like “Minds in Motion” reflect 4-H’s commitment to innovation, engaging youth in STEM education and critical thinking.

The organization’s impact extends beyond individual members. Owen

County 4-H fosters community pride, volunteerism and family involvement. Generations of residents have participated, creating a legacy that ties the past to the present. As agriculture and technology continue to change, 4-H remains a constant—a place where young people learn by doing and grow into leaders.

As Owen County 4-H looks to the future, its mission remains clear: to empower youth with skills, knowledge and values that strengthen both individuals and communities. From its humble beginnings to its dynamic programs today, Owen County 4-H stands as a testament to the power of education, service and tradition.

Enjoying December without letting your wallet melt away

By Jamie Jo Lowder Health and Human Sciences Educator, Purdue Extension-Owen

County December is here, and Owen County is officially wrapped in twinkly lights, hotcocoa vibes and all the festive energy that makes this month so special.

As your Purdue Extension-Owen County Health & Human Sciences Educator, I’m here to share helpful tips and ideas all year long—especially when it comes to food, finances, health and family. And let’s be honest… December is a month when we can all use a little extra support in those areas!

Of course, with all the excitement comes something else too: the temptation

to splurge. Between gift shopping, special meals, holiday outings and those “just one more little thing” moments, it’s easy for spending to snowball faster than a holiday to-do list on Dec. 23.

But here’s the bright side—with a little planning and a sprinkle of creativity, you can enjoy everything this season offers without letting holiday spending pile up like snowdrifts.

1. Make a Holiday Spending Plan (Before the Sleigh Takes Off)

Before you start shopping, take a few minutes to write down:

- Who you need gifts for

- Special events or meals

- Travel or fuel costs

- “Extras” you know you love (shopping during Christmas at the Square… anyone?) Setting limits ahead of time helps you avoid those last-minute splurges.

2. Make Memories, Not Purchases Kids and adults

remember experiences far longer than storebought items.

Try:

- A backyard “winter wander” to look for animal tracks

- A family game night with hot chocolate

- Driving around the community to look at holiday lights

- A cozy movie night with popcorn

Kids often remember the laughter—not the price tag.

3. Shop Smart, Shop Local Supporting Owen County businesses is a gift in itself. Local shops often have unique items at affordable prices, plus shorter lines and friendlier faces. Set a “local shopping day” and stick to your list—you’ll support the community and avoid overspending at big stores.

4. Give Gifts That Don’t Come from a Store

Some of the most heartfelt gifts cost little to nothing:

- A jar of your favorite homemade cocoa mix

- A family recipe passed down on a handwritten card

- A “winter chore coupon book” for grandparents

- A framed photo or drawing

These gifts carry meaning, not price.

5. Plan Potluck-Style Gatherings

Food costs rise quickly in December. Instead of cooking everything yourself, invite family and friends to bring a dish. Not only does it cut down on spending— it also brings a wonderful variety of flavors that reflect our community.

6. Focus on Experiences Over Expenses

Set a family goal to choose one meaningful experience this month:

- A puzzle night

- Sledding at McCormick’s Creek (weather permitting!)

- A holiday movie marathon

- Story time with grandparents

When we shift focus to connection, the urge to splurge naturally fades.

December brings sparkle to Owen County—glowing lights, warm gatherings and memories waiting to be made. And the best part? You don’t need to overspend to enjoy it all. With smart choices and a creative touch, your holidays can stay bright without breaking the bank.

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, on our Facebook page or our website extension. purdue.edu/county/ owen/hhshome.html.

that the state has cut taxes 20 times within the last 10 years.

One of the topics that was discussed during a few different questions was the working relationship between Braun and Beckwith. Beckwith was not Braun’s choice of a running mate. Rather, Beckwith gathered enough delegates at the state Republican convention in June 2025 to usurp Representative Julie McGuire, placing him on the ticket. Beckwith announced his desire to run for the lieutenant governor position through this process at the Owen County Lincoln Day dinner held in the spring of 2024.

“Micah, it’s good to have you on the team as well because we are walking hand in hand, arm in arm,” Braun said during the first question which was about where the Republican Party is most united.

“It’s an honor to serve alongside you. I’ve said about Governor Braun as I got to know him—he embodies the fiscal prowess of Mitch Daniels, but the social conservatism of Mike Pence. I really believe that as I’ve gotten to see him in action. I think that’s kind of what we’ve been asking for for the last few years,” Beckwith said of Braun.

Beckwith said that some division in the party is inevitable.

“We’re family, and any family is going to have a pound the table moment, and we’re going to have those divisions and those fights. My ask anytime I come into a problem with the Republican Party is, ‘Hey, we can pound the table, but don’t take offense.’ I always try to say, ‘Hey, don’t hold on to it so tightly that you get offended by what somebody says.

Sometimes there has to be passion,’” he said.

The topic was brought up again when discussing cohesion between the different areas the duo prefer to emphasize.

“It’s really good when you have a team that has diverse backgrounds,” Braun said.

He discussed his extensive business background and his history as an elected official, including serving in the U.S. Senate prior to being elected governor.

“That doesn’t mean I’m not just as interested in the cultural issues, as I told you earlier I was. And here, I have a partner that comes from the pulpit, that knows culture and religion and a legislature that embraces all of that.

That’s why I say these next three to seven years, I’m going to be involved with it. We’ve got opportunity that we’ve never had before as a state being enterprising conservatives.

Generally when you have those two words together, the other side of the aisle likes to use enterprising with liberalism. We make a good team and compliment one another,” Braun said.

“Absolutely. I couldn’t agree more. I think you just heard him announce his reelection campaign,” Beckwith said. “It’s true. I think he said it so well. I love serving with Governor Braun. I think we compliment each other really well. He brings fiscal business prowess of running a business, a successful business, an entrepreneur, and you gotta have that. A conservative state needs good business policy, good entrepreneurial vision, and he brings it. But I also know he’s just as conservative on the social stuff as I am, and I think he knows I’m just as gung-ho about

good fiscal policy as he is.”

Beckwith also said that his wheelhouse, where he comes from is “the culture wars.”

He also cited faith and family values as the foundation of the nation and something they have to protect.

“I know he’s got my back when I say things like that, and we’ve had conversations, and he’s doing great things on executive orders, signing legislation that the legislature’s giving him that are protecting those values. So when, when I’m out there, you know, I just kind of lead with that. I know he’s right there 100 percent supportive,” Beckwith said. “I think really, we’ve made a great team, and we’re going to continue to make a great team for another three to seven years.”

He noted that people ask about their relationship a lot.

“I think he’s becoming a good friend. I look at him as a mentor and somebody that I’m learning a lot from,” Beckwith said. “It’s

been an honor to serve alongside of you, and I think we’re probably going to have one of the better, if not the best relationships between governor and lieutenant governor that we’ve seen in 20 years because it was kind of an arranged marriage.”

Risk, who works in the lieutenant governor’s office, talked about the patience and calmness that Braun brings to the work he does, which Beckwith agreed with.

Braun said that the only thing that has really offended or upset him was when Senator Chuck Schumer and HungarianAmerican investor and philanthropist George Soros spent millions on a campaign calling Braun a liar and a hypocrite.

“That is when you really feel offended. And then you know what you do? You outwork them, you out maneuver them, and you get the better of that,” he said.

Braun also talked

about the importance of his faith in his journey to being governor of Indiana and the hope he has for the future.

“We’re all together here at a moment in time when we set the bar for Midwest conservatism,” he said.

The event closed with honoring and recognizing the Vincennes University chapter of Turning Point USA, an organization founded by the late Charlie Kirk who was assassinated on Sept. 10 while speaking on the campus of Utah Valley University.

Beckwith sang and performed a mashup of “Amazing Grace” and “God Bless America” on the guitar also in honor of Kirk. ***

Editor’s Note: The Owen News was comped a ticket to cover the event. Offering comped tickets or observer only access is a common journalistic practice. The Owen News is disclosing this in an effort to be overly transparent in our access to ticketed events.

Ramblings: The Christmas gift

By Annie Bright Guest Columnist

memories of my father at Christmas. Memories of trips to the City Market in Indianapolis, making cookies, picking out the perfect tree. Each tinfoil icicle, each ornament was placed with precision. My most precious memory is of a lesson dad taught us the year I was 10. I do not know how it relates to nature, but it is a story worth telling.

My father was a policeman. One cold morning, the week before Christmas, dad came home upset. He was acting strangely and whispering to mom. I heard her say, “Oh, Bob,” repeatedly as she puttered around the kitchen making coffee. It was time to get ready for school, so I got up and wandered into

the kitchen. I was surprised to see my older brother sitting at the table in his pajamas. I could tell by my parents’ faces something was wrong. Mom told us to get dressed so we could have breakfast with dad before we went to school. “He wants to talk with you.” Someone had plugged in the Christmas tree lights. Bubble lights were shining like tiny candles; the glass balls dangling from the fragrant limbs were shining from reflecting lights. The perfectly placed icicles were gleaming. I smiled at the presents under the tree as I passed by. I felt a rush of excitement about what might be in the ones with my name on them. Was I going to get another story book doll for my collection? I collected small dolls dressed in costumes from other countries. What books were waiting to take me away from my life to live in the pages with the characters that seemed so interesting?

When I returned to the kitchen, both my brothers were there, eating oatmeal. Dad was drinking coffee and smoking a cigarette. The look on his face was sad and serious. “Kids,” he started, “I want to tell you something, and I need your help.” He proceeded to tell us about a house fire he had been called to. The home of a family with four children had burned to the ground. The family had escaped, which was a miracle, but they had lost everything. Dad looked at us sadly, “Now I know you don’t have many presents under the tree. But those kids don’t even have a tree. I’d like for you to pick out one of your gifts to give to these kids.” My brother Red looked at me, his blue eyes twinkling. I knew what he was thinking, “which one?” Which one was THE present we really wanted? Neither of us said, “No, we won’t.” No kid wants to give away their Christmas

presents. There was something in our father’s voice, his slumped shoulders that convinced us that this was the time to do as he asked. After all, we had more than one present. We were not forced to run out in the cold winter night to escape a fire. The three of us walked to the tree and searched for a present with our name on it. I decided on a present wrapped in white paper with green holly and bright red berries. Mom had tied a red ribbon around it. I did not know what it was, but it was a pretty package. We handed the presents we had chosen to Dad. Mom picked one of my baby sister Linda’s. She was only four and still asleep. As Dad put the presents in a shopping bag he said, “Thank you. I am proud of you all for giving up one of your presents for these kids.” Later, I learned that the firemen and the officers on duty had taken up a collection

to help the family. We weren’t the only policeman’s kids that shared our presents with children we did not know.

Sometimes I wonder what was in the pretty box I gave to a girl I didn’t know. It wasn’t my story book doll. I received a beautiful Dutch doll with wooden shoes and blonde braids that year. What I gave away doesn’t matter. My life is unchanged by the absence of that gift. My existence is richer by far by the invaluable lesson I learned. ‘Things’ are not what life is about. A pile of presents is not the meaning of Christmas. My father gave us a gift that year that is worth more than anything that could have been in that pretty box tied up with a red ribbon. He taught us by example, to think of others, to share what we have, to give to those that are in need. That is how human nature is supposed to be. ‘til next time, Annie

It’s Just a Country State of Mind: Finding the perfect Christmas tree

By Susan Anderson Guest Columnist

growing up, my father had certain Christmas traditions that we followed every year. One tradition had to do with our Christmas tree. My dad believed in getting a real Christmas tree. It was quite an adventure to say the least, and I look back fondly on those days and smile. We would go out and pick out our own live tree. Dad called these adventures, “The great Christmas

tree hunts.” We didn’t go out to a tree farm, but dad had his own idea of places to find a tree and of course we always did it together as a family. My father had a friend who owned some land in the country that was full of Eastern Cedar trees. Every year, the owner allowed my father and the rest of us to go onto his property and pick out a tree to cut down for our Christmas tree. There always seemed to be a method to my father’s madness. My dad would get out his handsaw, grab some rope, then load our little family up in the car, and we would go for a grand adventure of

finding the perfect Christmas tree. My dad had certain spots where he knew there were lots of trees that grew and where the nicest ones were. I can’t tell you where that spot is now, but if I had to guess I would say it was out in the middle of nowhere. My dad would lead his family (my mother, brother and myself) out into the wilderness, and we never left that place until we found what he considered to be the perfect tree. We would walk around a while, and it was usually snowing, which made the whole experience quite special for me. The snow

would blanket the countryside, causing the effect of a winter wonderland as the woods laid silent before us. There was a quiet expectation among us, but no one dared say a word as we watched my father inspecting every tree on the planet. Finally, my dad would find the one he wanted. He had brought us along to help, but in the end it was always my dad‘s decision. He was sort of like a Christmas tree connoisseur. At least he thought so. After he made the choice, he would get out his trusty saw and start working on getting the tree down and into

the trunk of our car. The tree was always bigger than the trunk, thus the reason for bringing along the rope. He tied the trunk down so the tree wouldn’t fall out. We would then make our way home where the prized tree would be placed in the middle of our living room, waiting to be adorned with decorations and lights. It just wasn’t Christmas in our house until the tree was officially up.

Today, a lot of people use artificial trees. I am guilty of this myself. But sometimes the pull of tradition is strong, and I have a deep longing in my heart to

experience a Christmas like I did as a child. My father is gone now, and I know you can’t go back to that place in reality, but in small ways, in my memories, I can go back to the place in the wilderness where the Christmas trees grew. I can still revisit the silence of the woods. I put my tree up the other night, and I don’t know if anyone would consider it to be perfect. But I think if my dad was here to judge, he would think it was pretty nice. In fact, I think he would say that it was perfect. At least I’d like to think so.

Merry Christmas!

— Susan