County election board reviews 9 CAN-1 challenges for primary qualification
By Nicole DeCriscio Executive Editor
Three candidates were removed from the primary ballot in Owen County following nearly six hours of testimony before the County Election Board and more than two hours of results spanning two days.
The board heard
a total of nine CAN-1 challenges, two of which came from County Republican Chair Kristi Risk. The other seven came from local citizen Pam Rogers.
CAN-1 is the specific name of the form used to challenge whether or not a candidate is legally qualified to appear on the ballot. These forms trigger
a hearing brought before the county election board.
The election board consists of chair Tony Voelker representing the Republican Party, vice chair Frank Coffin representing the Democratic Party and board secretary Diane Stutsman, who is also Owen County’s Clerk. Voelker and Coffin are
TEAM AG INDIANA
former county chairs of their respective parties.
Also present and guiding the board was attorney Richard Lorenz.
The results meeting took place on Feb. 26, while the testimony from those filing the challenges and the candidates being challenged took place the day prior.
Lorenz said the
State Ag Director calls for unity at SWCD Annual Meeting
By Travis Curry Senior Correspondent
Amidst the rolling hills of Owen County—a landscape that guest speaker Don Lamb joked can make a “Boone County flatlander” like himself a little queasy—
local farmers and conservationists gathered Feb. 26 at the Owen County Fairgrounds for the Owen County Soil & Water Conservation District’s Annual Meeting Dinner & Expo.
Lamb, the Director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture (ISDA),
SWCD | PAGE 14
BELOW: Owen County Councilman Anton Karl Neff (right) had the honor of swearing in new Owen County SWCD Board of Supervisors members Aaron Dunn and Jean Ann Schmittgens to begin their three-year terms of service. The ceremony took place during the SWCD’s Annual Meeting Dinner & Expo held Feb. 26. TRAVIS CURRY | THE OWEN NEWS
Legislators discuss end of 2026 session
By Nicole DeCriscio Executive Editor
The second and final Legislative Breakfast took place Feb. 28 at Owen Valley Christian Fellowship.
The annual events are hosted by the Owen County Chamber of Commerce to provide residents with the ability to connect with their legislators, share their concerns and ask questions about pending legislation in the year’s legislative session
This year was a short or nonbudget year that ended on the evening of Feb. 27 because the legislature started the session a few weeks early in December. Typically, the legislative session
hearing revealed broader issues with how candidate forms are completed. He also noted the high level of scrutiny from the challenges and that that level of scrutiny would yield similar results across the state.
He pointed out that the candidate guide for
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Fatal incident leads to felony
Weekend altercation leads to involuntary manslaughter charge
By Travis Curry Senior Correspondent
A weekend gathering turned tragic in the early hours of Feb. 28, leaving a young woman dead and another facing felony charges following a violent struggle near a backyard fire pit. Samantha Mae Mayhew, 33, of Poland, IN, has been remanded to the Owen County Security Center on a charge of involuntary manslaughter following the death of 27-year-old Kiersten Moore.
11 Primary ‘Meet the Candidates’ forum is April 20 Staff Report
TIn preparation for the primary election, The Owen will host a “Meet the Candidates” forum on Monday, April 20 at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24. N. Washington St.,
The event is free and open to the public. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., FORUM | PAGE 10 FATAL | PAGE 12
IN BRIEF
Albany man found guilty of felony
On Jan. 18, 2024, Victor Holding of Albany, IN was charged with multiple felonies, including two counts of intimidation with a deadly weapon. The State also BRIEF | PAGE 13
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devoted Christian
who lived his life rooted in faith, service and love. He was known for his unwavering work ethic and his deep commitment to caring for others. Jeremy cherished every moment he got to spend in the beauty of God’s creation, whether he was hiking or sitting patiently in the woods during hunting season. He also had a gift for working with his hands fixing cars, tackling projects and finding satisfaction in building or repairing whatever needed attention.
Above all, Jeremy loved his family
and friends. He poured himself into the people he cared about, offering guidance, encouragement, and a steady presence that will be profoundly missed. His legacy is one of service and love, carried forward by all who were blessed to know him.
Jeremy is survived by his wife, Deena (Saglibene) Heidrich; daughters, Allyson Heidrich and Kristen Robinson (Marcus); mother, Sharon Cate; sisters, Kelly Durbin, Wendy Creech, and Bethany Sallee (Todd); brother,
Government Meeting Calendar
March 9
Owen County Council, 6 p.m., Commissioners’ Room, Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.
March 23
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Owen Valley Fire Territory Board, 6 p.m. at the Owen Valley Volunteer 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.
March 12
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.
Owen County Board of Zoning Appeals, 7 p.m., Commissioners’ Room, Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.
March 16
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.
March 17
Owen County Advisory Plan Commission, 6:30 p.m., Commissioners’ Room, Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.
March 19
Owen County Board of Commissioners, 6 p.m., Commissioners’ Room, Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.
Spencer Parks and Recreation Board, 6 p.m. in the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St., Spencer.
March 24
Spencer Plan Commission & BZA, 6 p.m. in the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St., Spencer.
Stepehen Heidrich; stepbrothers, Stephen Cate (Carol) and Andrew Cate; stepsister, Irene Selby (Edward); and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Daniel Heidrich; stepfather, William F. Cate; son, Hunter Malachi Heidrich; nephew, Ryan Durbin; and stepbrother, Thomas Cate.
Jeremy’s memory will continue to shine through the lives he touched, the kindness he showed and the faith he lived daily.
April 2
Owen County Board of Commissioners, 6 p.m., Commissioners’ Room, Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.
April 6
Spencer Town Council, 6 p.m. in the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St., Spencer.
THE OWEN NEWS
Community Events Calendar
March 6
Watercolor Class, 2 to 3 p.m. in the Activity Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. Open to teens and adults.
Owen Valley High School Air Force Junior ROTC Military Ball, 6 p.m. at OVHS, 622 S.R. 46W, Spencer.
Rescue Recovery of Owen County meeting, 6:30 p.m. at 156 E. Market St., Spencer. Come connect with others walking the same journey; find support, strength and hope to break the chains of addiction. Free childcare and coffee available.
March 7
OVHS Youth Board Dance Marathon, 3 to 8 p.m. at Owen Valley High School, 622 S.R. 46W, Spencer. Put on your Disney ears and join in for a night filled with dancing, games, music and more. For more information, contact Youth Board sponsor Kristen Portteus at 812-829-2266 or kportteus@socs.k12.in.us.
Seven Oaks’ Battle of the Badges, 5 p.m. in the gymnasium at Seven Oaks Classical School, 200 E. Association St., Ellettsville. Come support your favorite team: Team Fire or Team Police. Admission is $5 or a donation of five non-perishable food items. All proceeds will benefit Pantry 279.
Live music by The Walker & Tesmer Duo, 8 p.m. at the Gosport VFW Post #7850, 159 E. Main St., Gosport
March 8
Fine Arts Festival, 1 to 4 p.m. at Owen Valley High School, 622 S.R. 46W, Spencer. This free event will feature performances by some of OV’s best ensembles in addition to incredible art displays.
Owen Valley High School choir concert, 3 p.m. in the high school auditorium, 622 S.R. 46W, Spencer. Admission is $5 per person.
Owen County Beef Tag-In Day, 3 to 5 p.m. at the OwenMonroe Auction Barn, 9646 W. Hedrick Rd., Gosport. Any Owen County 4-H member with a steer (beef or dairy), market heifer, or crossbred heifer must bring their animal to this tag-in to be eligible to show at the county and/or state fair. For more information, call 812-322-4322 or 812-8295020.
March 9
Jolly Homemakers meeting, 1 p.m. at the Freedom Community Center, 5558 Freedom-Arney Rd., Freedom. March 10
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 812-829-5020.
Owen Valley Middle School band concert, 6 p.m. in the OVHS Auditorium, 622 S.R. 46W, Spencer.
Free performance of “Clovers Along the Yellow Brick Road,” 7 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. The play features local 4-Hers and performers with the Owen County Theatre and Arts Alliance.
Owen Valley Sports Complex board meeting, 7 p.m. at 575 Fifth Ave., Spencer. This meeting is open to the public.
March 11
Harrison Homemakers meeting, noon at the Purdue Extension-Owen County office, 180 S. Washington St., Spencer. Unbound Recovery, 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Access Church, 499 N. Main St., Cloverdale. A faith-based, 12-step recovery community for anyone struggling with addiction or compulsive behaviors. Whether you are
facing substance use, emotional strongholds or unhealthy habits, you’re not alone, and you’re not without hope. Meets every Wednesday at 7 p.m.
Free performance of “Clovers Along the Yellow Brick Road,” 7 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. The play features local 4-Hers and performers with the Owen County Theatre and Arts Alliance.
March 12
After-School Lego Club, 3 to 5 p.m. in the Activity Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer.
Owen County Drug and Alcohol Resource Team (DART) meeting, noon to 2 p.m. at the Owen County Family YMCA, 1111 S.R. 46W, Spencer.
Family Friendly Illusion Show - Magic & Morality, 6 p.m. at Faith Baptist Church, 11612, S.R. 243, Cloverdale. Free.
White River Beekeepers meeting, 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. Current and prospective beekeepers are welcome to attend.
National Honor Society Ceremony, 7 p.m. in the Owen Valley High School Auditorium, 622 S.R. 46W, Spencer. Spencer Masonic Lodge #95 stated meeting, 7:30 p.m. at the Lodge, 361 N. Harrison St., Spencer.
March 13
After-School Craft Club, 3 to 5 p.m. in the Activity Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. Rescue Recovery of Owen County meeting, 6:30 p.m. at 156 E. Market St., Spencer. Come connect with others walking the same journey; find support, strength and hope to break the chains of addiction. Free childcare and coffee available.
Family Friendly Illusion Show - Magic & Morality, 9 p.m. at Faith Baptist Church, 11612, S.R. 243, Cloverdale. Free.
March 14
The Friends of the Library monthly book sale, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer.
Woodcock Walk, 7:30 p.m. at Flatwoods Park, 9499 W. Flatwoods Rd., Gosport. A community evening to experience the amazing American Woodcock. Email sas@sassafrasaudubon. org to register. Limited to 20 participants.
March 17
Cupcakes & Canvas, 6 p.m. in the Activity Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. Open to teens and adults. To reserve your space, call 812-8293392.
Spencer Lions Club meeting, 6:30 p.m. in the Lester F. Litten Community Building, 59 N. Main St., Spencer.
EPA Franklin Groundwater Superfund Site Presentation, 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer.
March 18
Free showings of the movie “Hoppers,” 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Sponsored by the Spencer United Methodist Church and Tri-Kappa.
Junior Chefs, 2 p.m. at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. Young cooks will learn basic kitchen skills, food safety and create a simple, tasty recipe in this hands-on program designed to build confidence in the
kitchen. Space is limited. Call 812829-3392 to register.
Free community dinner, 5 to 7 p.m. at the Cataract Lake Community Center, 5530 S.R. 42, Poland.
The Science of Severe Weather, 6 to 7 p.m. in the Community Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. Learn about the formation, identification and safety surrounding severe weather. Presented by meteorologist Joseph Cooper. All ages are welcome to attend.
Spencer Pride Board of Directors meeting, 6:30 p.m. at the commUnity center, 17 E. Franklin St., Spencer. March 19
Moonglade Animal Adventures, 11 a.m. in the Youth Services Department at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. Spencer Exchange Club meeting, noon at the Owen County Family YMCA, 1111 W. S.R. 46, Spencer.
Free showings of the movie “The Thin Man” (1934), 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Sponsored by Janet Rummel.
Calico Homemakers meeting, 2 p.m. Meetings are held at a different restaurant each month. For more information, call 812829-5020.
Teen Chefs, 2 p.m. at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. This interactive program is designed just for teens and focuses on building practical cooking skills, learning kitchen safety and preparing a flavorful recipe they can recreate at home. Space is limited. Call 812829-3392 to register.
Trivia Night with host Rance Fawbush, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Owen Valley Winery & Bistro, 491 Timber Ridge Rd., Spencer.
March 20
Safe Sitter® program, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Purdue Extension-Owen County office, 180 S. Washington St., Spencer. This program prepares students in grades 6–8 to be safe, responsible, and confident babysitters. Space is limited. Register by calling 812-829-5020. Cost is $20 per person.
Rescue Recovery of Owen County meeting, 6:30 p.m. at 156 E. Market St., Spencer. Come connect with others walking the same journey; find support, strength and hope to break the chains of addiction. Free childcare and coffee available.
March 21
Owen-Putnam State Forest 50/50 Trail Race Challenge, provided by the non-profit Indiana Trail Running Association (ITRA). 50-mile, 50k distance race begins at 7 a.m., 14-mile run at 9:30 a.m., and the 10K at 10 a.m. To learn more or to register, visit opsf5050.com.
March 23
All ages board game night, 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the upstairs Activity Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. Snacks will be provided. Spencer Main Street Board meeting, 6:30 p.m. in the Viquesney Room at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Open to the public.
March 24
Owen County SWCD Board of Supervisors meeting, 4:30 p.m. at the SWCD office, 788 Pottersville Rd., Spencer. Open to the public. Owen Valley High School Winter Sports Banquet, 6 p.m. at OVHS, 622 S.R. 46W, Spencer. Paint your Partner Date Night Event, 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Civilian Brewing Corps, 14 N. Washington
St., Spencer. Presented by the Owen County Public Library. Free 8x10 canvas and acrylics will be provided. Spots are limited; call 812-829-3392 ext. 210 to reserve your spot.
March 27
Rescue Recovery of Owen County meeting, 6:30 p.m. at 156 E. Market St, Spencer. Come connect with others walking the same journey; find support, strength and hope to break the chains of addiction. Free childcare and coffee available. Live music by Bubba Wiggles (B.W.), 7 p.m. at the Spencer American Legion Post #285, 154 S. Main St., Spencer.
March 28
No Kings protest, 10 a.m. to noon in downtown Spencer. Organized by the Owen County Democratic Party.
March 30
All Ages Game Night - BINGO, 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the Activity Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer.
Owen County 4-H Project Fair, 6 to 8 p.m. in the 4-H Exhibit Hall at the Owen County Fairgrounds, Spencer. For more information, call 812-829-5020 or email owences@purdue.edu.
Owen Valley High School FFA Banquet, 6 p.m. at OVHS, 622 S.R. 46W, Spencer.
March 31
Owen Valley High School National Honor Society Ceremony, 7 p.m. in the auditorium at OVHS, 622 S.R. 46W, Spencer.
April 2
Cloverdale Elementary School Kindergarten Round-Up, 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., 311 E. Logan St., Cloverdale. Enrollment packets available at CES. For more information, call 765-795-4339. Spencer Exchange Club meeting, noon at the Owen County Family YMCA, 1111 W. S.R. 46, Spencer. Gosport Lions Club meeting, 6:30 p.m. at the Gosport Community Building, 301 N. Ninth St., Gosport.
April 3
Annual Easter Egg Hunt sponsored by the Owen County 4-H Fishing Team, 6 p.m. at the Owen County Fairgrounds in Spencer. Divisions will include ages 0-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-10 and handicap.
Rescue Recovery of Owen County meeting, 6:30 p.m. at 156 E. Market St., Spencer. Come connect with others walking the same journey; find support, strength and hope to break the chains of addiction. Free childcare and coffee available.
April 4
Sixth Annual Cloverdale Community Youth League (CCYL) Easter Egg Hunt; ages 0-5, 11 a.m. at the football field in Cloverdale; ages 6-10, 11:15 a.m. at the Little League field; and ages 11+, 11:30 a.m. at the Nature Trail in Cloverdale. For more information, call Kristen at 765-720-7432.
Easter Egg Hunt at Crossroads Ranch, 2 to 3:30 p.m., 6740 McFarren Rd., Gosport. Photos, cookies, and crafts. Egg hunt begins at 3 p.m. All ages are welcome to attend. Free admission. Donations are encouraged.
April 5
Spencer Pride general meeting, 4 p.m. at the commUnity center, 17 E. Franklin St., Spencer.
April 6
Mini Art Open Studio, 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the upstairs Activity Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. Light snacks provided.
Jail Bookings
EDITOR’S NOTE: Booking information is provided by the Owen County Security Center. These are preliminary charges and may change as cases are processed through the circuit court system. To follow a court case, search the state’s court records at mycase.in.gov. This information is public record. All people are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
2-5
Travis Sanders, 59, Poland, IN, preliminary charge of driving while suspended with a prior charge. Arrested by Owen County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) Sergeant Torrey Wallace.
2-7
David Bixler, 41, Gosport, preliminary charge of driving while suspended with a prior charge. Spencer Police Department (SPD) officer Bryce Brock was the arresting officer.
Jesse Monnett, 35, Cloverdale, preliminary charges of violation of specialized driving privileges, resisting law enforcement, driving while suspended with a prior charge, and operating while intoxicated. Arrested
by OCSD Deputy Elijah Volrich.
2-10
Brandon Mullis, 32, Etowah, TN, preliminary charge of operating while intoxicated. SPD officer Ben Muncie was the arresting officer. Victor Holding, 29, New Albany, preliminary charges of robbery, intimidation (two counts), and probation violation. Arrested by OCSD Major William Snodgrass.
2-11
Forrest Jackson, 58, Bloomington, preliminary charge of driving while suspended with a prior charge. OCSD Deputy Elijah Volrich was the arresting officer.
2-12
Michael Allen, 63, Eureka, MO, preliminary charge of operating while intoxicated. Arrested by SPD officer Bryce Brock.
2-17
Justin Delp, 37, Cloverdale, preliminary charges of operating while intoxicated and operating a vehicle as a habitual traffic
Food Inspections
Routine food inspections were conducted by the Owen County Health Department during the month of January 2026. Reported below are
violator (HTV). Indiana Conservation Officer Matt Mauder was the arresting officer.
2-19
Calvin Hall, 32, Spencer, preliminary charges of strangulation, domestic battery, disorderly conduct, and intimidation. Arrested by SPD officer Bryce Brock.
Ashley Hodge, 32, Spencer, preliminary charges of operating with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .15 or more, auto theft, and probation violation.
OCSD Sergeant Brandon Gasparovic was the arresting officer.
2-20
James Davis, 36, Spencer, preliminary charges of unlawful possession of a syringe, possession of paraphernalia, possession of a narcotic drug, and possession of methamphetamine. Arrested by OCSD Sergeant Brandon Gasparovic.
2-21
Rene Hernandez, 34, Solsberry, preliminary charge of driving without a license. OCSD Lieutenant Clint Wampler
the no violation, critical and non-critical comments left for these establishments: 1-30
Permanent Cosmetics by
was the arresting officer.
2-22
Justin Carter, 24, Ellettsville, preliminary charges of driving while suspended with a prior charge and operating a vehicle without financial responsibility. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Stephen DeWitt II.
2-25
Mateo Cantera Salinas, 45, Spencer, preliminary charge of operating without a license when required. SPD officer Bryce Brock was the arresting officer.
2-26
Athena Skiddle, 47, Spencer, preliminary charges of battery against a public official, resisting law enforcement, battery, criminal mischief, criminal trespass, and disorderly conduct. Arrested by SPD officer E.J. Westgate.
Jaymison Copeland, 21, Bowling Green, preliminary charges of operating a vehicle without financial responsibility, motorcycle learners permit violation, driving while suspended with a prior charge, and failure to appear. Indiana
Michele, 660 W. Morgan St., Spencer. Routine inspection. No violations 2-24
Owen County Sheriff’s
Conservation Officer
Matt Mauder was the arresting officer.
2-27
Thomas Houtchins, 25, Terre Haute, preliminary charge of criminal recklessness. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Stephen DeWitt II.
2-28
Samantha Mayhew, 33, Poland, IN, preliminary charge of involuntary manslaughter. OCSD Deputy Brennan Clark was the arresting officer. Breanna Frields, 26, Bloomington, preliminary charges of theft, dealing or possession of a lookalike substance, and failure to appear. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Brennan Clark.
3-2
Dakota Ballard, 32, Indianapolis, preliminary charges of criminal recklessness, invasion or privacy (two counts), strangulation, domestic battery on a person less than 14 years old (two counts), domestic battery (two counts), auto theft, and burglary. OCSD Sergeant Brandon Gasparovic was the arresting officer.
Department (jail kitchen), 291 Vandalia Ave., Spencer. Routine inspection. No violations.
Spencer Redevelopment Commission sidesteps TIF debt, eyes commercial growth
By Travis Curry Senior Correspondent
A recent stroke of financial luck and strategic maneuvering dominated the Spencer Redevelopment Commission’s special meeting on Feb. 25. Highlighting the evening was the news that the town will no longer need to pledge residential tax revenues toward its sewage project, potentially saving the town’s long-term funding flexibility.
A Win for Ratepayers
Initially, the commission met to consider a resolution pledging Tax Increment Financing (TIF) revenues to pay for sewage works revenue bonds. However, town attorney Richard Lorenz announced that lower-than-expected project costs have rendered the pledge unnecessary.
The winning bid for the town’s planned sewer improvements project came in at an eye-catching $7,777,777.77, a figure Lorenz noted was well below the initial estimate.
“It’s been suggested that the combination of the loan and grant, together with the project bids that were received, amounts to better than a 1.5-milliondollar benefit to the ratepayers,” Lorenz explained.
Beyond the immediate savings, the decision to forgo the TIF pledge protects the town’s future. Because the debt won’t be issued against the residential TIF, a “20year clock” on the TIF’s expiration will not be triggered.
“If the debt is not issued there is no expiration date,” Lorenz said. “By removing the TIF pledge from the deal, we will not start the
20-year clock.”
Former Riddle Property Prepared for Sale
The commission also shifted its focus to the former Riddle Tractor Sales property at North Short and West Morgan Streets. The town purchased the six-lot site in 2023 and is now looking to offload a portion of it to a private developer.
An unidentified company has expressed interest in two lots formerly used for equipment sales. To facilitate a sale, the commission voted unanimously to transfer those two lots from the Town of Spencer to the Redevelopment Commission.
The Proposed Timeline
March 31: Target date for two commercial appraisals (estimated at $6,000 each).
April 22 & 29: Public
notice of the property disposition to be published.
May 13: Commission meets to receive proposals and purchase prices.
June 30: Expected closing date for the sale.
Lorenz noted that if no other bids are received during the public process, the town can negotiate directly with the interested party.
“The bottom line is we believe that the sales of these two lots will pay for and extinguish the loan that we have [on the properties] in its totality,” Lorenz said, leaving the remaining four lots as a “net gain.”
The other four lots are already being eyed for community use; the south-side lots are a potential future site for the Owen Valley Fire Territory, while an existing building to the east is currently used by the Spencer Street Department.
Housing and Aerospace Interest
Before adjourning, Lorenz provided a glimpse into Spencer’s growing economic momentum. He cited interest from an aerospace industry employer looking to establish a local presence, as well as a proposal for a 40-acre residential development on County Line Road that could bring 80 new homes to the area.
“We keep making these little inroads that are very valuable,” Lorenz said. “They are coming along at just the right pace that we can almost keep up with them.”
The Spencer Redevelopment Commission consists of members Wally DeFord, Evan McKalip, Ed Hines, Gary Brinson and ex-officio member Andy Cline.
Spencer Council moves forward with sewer project
By Travis Curry Senior Correspondent
The Spencer Town Council addressed a packed agenda during its regular meeting on Feb. 17, focusing heavily on long-term infrastructure investments, departmental maintenance and economic development.
The centerpiece of the evening was the introduction and passing of Resolution 2026-01, a preliminary determination to issue sewage works revenue bonds and bond anticipation notes. Town attorney Richard Lorenz clarified that the principal amount for these bonds is not to exceed $14,500,000. The council voted 3-0 to move forward with the resolution, signaling a significant commitment to upcoming sewer improvements.
In related utility news, Spencer Sewer Department Superintendent Ryan Klaassen received council
approval for an emergency control board repair from Cummins Engines totaling $3,596.09; an $8,375 contract with Dubois Excavating to replace 60 feet of clay tile pipe in the alley between Jefferson and Wayne streets; and the purchase of a new $1,564 laptop equipped with GIS for field line locations, partially reimbursed ($900) by an apprentice program.
The council also renewed several key service contracts for the 2026 calendar year, including:
Economic Development: The Owen County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) contract was presented and approved. The total amount of the contract is $61,222.52, to be made in quarterly payments of $15,305.63. The EDC promises to routinely provide a list of contacts associated with economic progress involving both the town and county. Council member Ginger Kohr will serve as
the town’s liaison and be included in the monthly EDC meetings.
Rural Transit: Renewed at a cost of $18,000 annually ($1,500 monthly) to maintain consistent transportation services. Monthly activity reports will be submitted to the council.
Tree removal: Re-engaged Chip’s Outdoor Services, LLC at last year’s rates to prepare for potential severe weather. Issues of public safety and maintenance were also addressed, with Spencer Police Department (SPD) Chief Terry Sips reporting that a 2018 Ford Interceptor requires over $9,200 in repairs. He also requested approval for the purchase of training ammunition for sidearms totaling $1,510.78 from Cheaper Than Dirt. Both expenditures were approved. Meanwhile, the Spencer Street Department and Superintendent Tony Floyd received a budget of up to $6,000 for garage door and
truck repairs. Floyd later highlighted David Anderson’s promotion to CDL driver following his certification and requested Anderson’s salary be raised to the base pay amount for that position.
In a sentimental moment, the council approved a request from the family of late council member Mike Spinks to place a memorial bench on North Washington Street, located between the Historic Tivoli Theatre and Civilian Brewing Corps.
Looking ahead, clerktreasurer Cheryl Moke proposed hiring Colleen Minnemeyer as a “project manager” at a $250 monthly stipend to handle “back burner” tasks. The council also discussed taking a firmer stance on neglected properties, with attorney Lorenz outlining a legal process for cleanup that could begin with official deficiency notices.
Candidates file for 2026 Primary Election
By Travis Curry Senior Correspondent
With election day just around the corner, here’s a list of who voters will see on the May 5, 2026 ballot for the Democratic and Republican primaries.
Circuit Court II Judge, 78th Judicial Circuit
Kelsey B. Hanlon – R
Prosecuting Attorney, 78th Judicial Circuit
Ashley M. Fleetwood – R
Benjamin C. Kim – R
Kristin Szczerbik – D
Circuit Court Clerk
Diane Stutsman – R
Nicholas Pecenica – D
Commissioner, District 1 (Harrison, Montgomery, Taylor or Wayne Township residency)
Jeffery Johnson – R
Norman C. Warner – R
Coroner
Shelby Hershberger – R
Timothy R. Wright – R
County Council, District 1 (Harrison, Montgomery, Taylor, part of Washington or Wayne Townships residency)
Loretta Foster – R
Lori L. Warner – R
Sandra K. Calvert – D
County Council, District 2 (Part of Washington Township residency)
Anton Karl Neff – D
County Council, District 3 (Jackson, Jennings, Lafayette, part of Marion or Morgan Townships residency)
Don Bingham – R
Lynda Sands – R
Mark Anthony Searcy – R
Mark Snapp – D
County Council, District 4 (Clay, Franklin, Jefferson or part of Marion Townships residency)
Andy Wood – R
Recorder
Nicole VanDerMoere – R
Joseph Newman - D
Sheriff
Sam Hobbs – R
Ryan T. White – R
Surveyor
Amy L. Meier – R
Pam Rogers – R
Treasurer
Shelly Townsend – R
Township Trustee – Clay
Marjorie Ann Clouse – R
Debbie Keith – R
Township Trustee –Franklin
Leroy Gentry – R
Township Trustee – Jackson
Bradley Salsbury – R
Township Trustee –Jefferson
Daryl Kasper – R
Township Trustee –Jennings
Susan M. Huftel – R
Township Trustee –Lafayette
Doris Scully – R
Township Trustee – Marion
James Elliott III – D
Township Trustee –Montgomery
M. Sue Carpenter – R
Amanda L. Huntington – R
Township Trustee – Morgan
Dave G. Davies – R
Collin Rotella – D
Township Trustee –Washington
Patty Edwards – R
Phillip O’Neil – D
Township Trustee – Wayne
Linda Ann Studer – R
Township Trustee Board –Clay
Jacob Balash – D
Township Trustee Board –
Franklin
Denise Line – R
Kim Voelker – R
Shea B. Finnegan – D
Bruce McCallister – D
Township Trustee Board –Harrison
Catherine Richardson – R
Clarence Walls – R
Township Trustee Board –Jefferson
Richard L. Hofmann – R
Athena Goulet – D
Township Trustee Board –Jennings
Ernest DuFault – R
Township Trustee Board –Lafayette
Randy Hendershot – R
Brenda Miller – R
Kenneth Sebastian – R
Township Trustee Board –Marion
Paul Culler – R
Roberta L. Harden – R
Ethan L. Wood – R
Township Trustee Board –Montgomery
Douglas K. Carpenter – R
Janet Long – R
Ermond V. Poore – R
Township Trustee Board –Morgan
Sharon Close – R
Ronald A. Jackson – R
Rita Shunk – R
Stephanie Barlow – D
Township Trustee Board –Washington
Daniel L. Melton – R
Suzanne R. Simmerman –R
Susan A. Ciresi – D
Julie Coffin – D
Ruth A. Jones – D
Township Trustee Board –Wayne
Debra Wampler – R
Precinct Committeeman –Clay 2
Jacob Balash – D
Precinct Committeeman –Franklin
Shea B. Finnegan – D
Bruce McCallister – D
Precinct Committeeman –Jackson
Kristin Szczerbik – D
Precinct Committeeman –Lafayette
Mark Quigley – D
Washington 2
Jo Ann Neal – D
Democratic Convention
Delegate
Jacob Balash – D
Stephanie Barlow – D
Frank Coffin – D
Julie Coffin – D
Aliyah Keuthan – D
Jo Ann Neal – D
Mark Quigley – D
Collin Rotella – D
Jane Rubeck – D
Kristin Szczerbik – D
Republican Convention Delegate
Andrew Horning – R
Verl Keith – R
Denise Line – R
Kelsie Risk Reyes – R
Kristi Risk – R
Lori L. Warner – R
Norman Warner III – R
United States Representative, Eighth District
Mark Messmer – R
Mary Allen – D
Mario Foradori – D
Christopher Rector – D
Tabitha Zeigler – D
State Senator, District 39
Tanner Bouchie – R
Jeff Ellington – R
Kristi Risk – R
Joseph Baughman – D
State Representative, District 46
Thomas L. (Tom) Arthur – R
Bob Heaton – R
James H. Pittsford (Jimmy), III – D
Primary Election Day is Tuesday, May 5. General Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3. Early voting begins April 7 in the first floor lobby of the Owen County Courthouse. Vote Centers will be located at:
- Faith Baptist Church (11612 State Road 243, Cloverdale)
- Millgrove United Methodist Church (11151 Millgrove Rd., Quincy)
- Lighthouse Fellowship Church (5392 S.R. 67, Gosport)
- Clay Township Fire Department (5663 S.R. 43, Spencer)
- Freedom Community Center (5552 Freedom-Arney Rd., Freedom)
- Jefferson Baptist Church (4019 Main St., Coal City)
Precinct Committeeman –Montgomery
Sandra K. Calvert – D
Precinct Committeeman –Morgan
David Henk – D
Precinct Committeeman –
Washington 1
Anton Karl Neff – D
Jane Rubeck – D
Precinct Committeeman –
- Garrard Chapel Church (7410 W. S.R. 46, Bowling Green)
- Spencer First Church of the Nazarene (126 E. Market St., Spencer)
For all election-related questions, contact Linda Roy, Owen County Deputy Clerk of Elections, at 812-829-5028 or email linda.roy@owencounty. in.gov.
For up-to-date candidacy filings, visit in.gov/sos/ elections/ and click on 2026 Primary Candidate List.
CCSC Board approves new staff, grant funding
By Travis Curry Senior Correspondent
The Cloverdale Community School Corporation (CCSC) Board of School Trustees addressed a variety of topics during its Feb. 9 meeting, from financial audits and grant approvals to recognizing the achievements of local students and staff.
With six of the seven board members present, the session balanced routine administrative duties with significant updates to corporation policy and personnel.
Under routine matters, the board voted to approve meeting minutes for executive, regular, and the annual finance meeting held on Jan. 12, as well as executive and special sessions held Jan. 19.
Superintendent Greg Linton presented the latest claims and financial reports, which totaled $2,968,858.32. This figure includes three payroll cycles since the board’s previous meeting on Jan. 12.
Addressing new business, the board voted 6-0 to approve the disposal of items deemed classroom surplus at Clovedale High School (CHS) in 2026.
In a move prompted by a recent State Board of Accounts exit audit, the board voted unanimously to update the 2026 MicroPurchases Threshold.
Superintendent Linton explained that the policy must be updated annually, and this year’s approval
effectively raises the threshold from $10,000 to $50,000.
The board also secured future funding by unanimously accepting the 2025-27 Title IV Grant, amounting to $19,581.23.
Reflecting an uptick in student numbers, the board approved a 6-0 vote for a new C.L.A.S.P. learning disability instructional assistant at CHS. Lauren Gellenbeck was later named to fill the position.
One donation for Cloverdale Elementary School (CES) and four donations for CHS were later approved, as well as two cash transfer-ins.
The board also took time to celebrate excellence within the district:
Students of the Month: Connor Pettijohn (CES), Brady Rubeck (CMS), and Sarah Nichols (CHS).
Staff Member of the Month: Cyndi Byrer, Head Custodian at CHS.
Citizens of the Month: Jamari Berryhill and Giovanni Martinez, recognized by School Resource Officer (SRO) Roger Tonna.
In addition, the board approved the following professional leave, field trip and facility use requests:
Professional Leave
Jan. 13 – Jamie Nees, work on Individualized Education Program (IEP) paperwork and goals, CES.
Field Trips
Feb. 2 – CMS eighth grade class, Reality Fair/Area 30 Career Center, Greencastle.
Feb. 25 – CMS Bring Change 2 Mind, Advocacy Youth Day at Statehouse, Indianapolis.
March 5 – CES third grade class, WonderLab Museum of Science, Health, and Technology, Bloomington.
March 6-7 – CHS Jazz band, South Vigo High School.
March 13-14 – CMS seventh/eighth grade band, Monrovia High School.
March 19 – CES fourth grade class, Indiana State Museum, Indianapolis.
March 31 – CHS Greenhouse & Soils, Galema’s Greenhouse, West Lafayette.
April 17-18 – CHS Concert Band, Northview High School.
April 21 – Academic Super Bowl Teams, Greencastle High School.
May 5 – CES kindergarten class, Historic Tivoli Theatre, Spencer.
May 8 – CES fourth grade class, Putnam County Fairgrounds, Greencastle.
May 9 – CHS academic Super Bowl Teams, Purdue University, West Lafayette.
May 9 – CHS Band, Kings Island, Mason, Ohio.
Facility Use
Feb. 9, Feb. 23, March 2, March 16 – Public meetings for proposed Cloverdale Township Fire Protection Territory, Cloverdale Township Volunteer Fire Department.
Feb. 13 – CMS fifth grade dance, CMS gymnasium.
Feb. 14 – Select baseball teams’ tryout, CHS auxiliary gymnasium, Cloverdale Community Youth League (CCYL).
Feb. 18 – Baseball/softball coaches meeting and draft night, CMS library, CCYL.
Feb. 21 – CCYL board meeting, CMS library, CCYL. March 4 – CMS/CHS choir concert, CMS cafeteria.
Sept. 26 – Vendor setup, electricity and bathrooms, CHS Café, gymnasium, and parking lot area, Cloverdale Main Street.
Additional personnel matters receiving board approval included:
Resignations
Tyce Jackson – CHS instructional assistant.
Sandi Price – CMS Snails to Trails.
Lori Halloran – CMS Snails to Trails.
Employment
Aubree Branigan – CMS instructional assistant.
Lauren Gellenbeck –C.L.A.S.P. instructional assistant.
Brittany Thomas – Parttime custodian.
Alaina Abegg – Knoy parttime teacher.
Coaching Hire
Mcguire Lee – CHS junior varsity baseball coach.
The Cloverdale School Board—consisting of Vivian Whitaker, Katrina Lewis, Donna Fidler, Melissa Carrell, Emily Haltom, Joe Mann and Mike Rightmyer II—is scheduled to meet again on Monday, March 9, at 7 p.m. The meeting will take place at the Arthur L. Johnson Administration Building.
John 4: 13-14
INDOT
implements new roadway worker safety initiative: Project Greenlight
Press Release
The Indiana Department of Transportation announces a new work zone initiative to increase worker safety.
INDOT is implementing Project Greenlight, a program to equip highway workers with Guardian Angel safety lights, to help bring awareness to workers in times of limited visibility.
Guardian Angel safety lights are wearable devices with flashing green patterns that increase worker visibility from all directions. When worn with a high visibility vest, these lights help workers become 89 percent more visible to the traveling public according to a study from Battelle Memorial Institute.
Bright green is the most visible color to the human eye and is the most visible from longer distances. The color green is also easily distinguishable from the rest of INDOT’s standard work zone lighting.
“Studies show drivers are more likely to move over and slow down when they see these green lights in work zones,” said INDOT Commissioner Lyndsay Quist. “The safety of our team is always our top priority as they make improvements to Indiana’s infrastructure, and we hope this small tool will
have a big impact.”
INDOT began piloting the green safety lights in fall 2025 within the three Hoosier Helper patrol areas –Northwest Indiana near Gary, Indianapolis metropolitan area and Southeast Indiana near Louisville – and within highway maintenance crews in the Indianapolis Subdistrict and various crews throughout the state.
As the program moves forward, approximately 375 lights will be distributed across the state, starting with the INDOT Northwest District. INDOT Highway Technicians and Hoosier Helpers are encouraged to use the green lights during nighttime operations, as well as during times of inclement weather like fog, rain or snow, when visibility might be lower.
Green safety lights were brought to INDOT through its Innovation and Process Improvement Division.
Innovation is one of INDOT’s core values as the agency looks to challenge the status quo through creative thinking and new technologies. An annual competition is held for INDOT employees to submit innovative ideas that make jobs safer, more efficient and more effective. Those ideas are then voted on internally and implemented throughout the agency.
we treat people like people. because, they’re people. simple human sense
FEMA designates 64 counties in Indiana as natural disaster areas
Staff Report
Sixty-four counties in Indiana, including Owen County, received Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) natural disaster designations due to severe storms in spring of 2025.
This Presidential disaster declaration allows the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) to extend much-needed emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters through emergency loans. Emergency loans can be used to meet various recovery needs including the replacement of essential items such as equipment or livestock, reorganization of a
farming operation, or to refinance certain debts. FSA will review the loans based on the extent of losses, security available, and repayment ability.
There are three events which qualify:
Presidential Designation M4882: Impacted Area: Indiana
Triggering Disaster:
Severe Storms, Straightline Winds, Tornadoes and Flooding that occurred between March 30 through April 9, 2025.
Application Deadline: March 23, 2026
Primary Counties
Eligible:
Indiana: Bartholomew, Brown, Clark, Crawford, Decatur, Floyd, Franklin, Greene, Harrison, Jefferson, Lawrence,
FORUM | FROM PAGE 1 with the program beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Candidates appearing on the primary ballot for either the Republican or Democratic parties for state and county-level offices are invited to participate. Each candidate will be given up to two minutes to introduce themselves, if they choose. Candidates who are unable to attend may submit a written introduction in advance, which will be read on their behalf during the program.
Following introductions, candidates in contested primary races will have the opportunity to answer questions posed by the moderator, Nicole DeCriscio, Executive Editor of The Owen News.
Other candidates are welcome to stay for individual questions from constituents and mingling following the end of the program.
In addition to the live forum, all primary candidates will be invited to respond to a candidate questionnaire that will appear in a special election section published with the April issue of The Owen News. The section is designed to provide readers with additional information
Madison, Marshall, Martin, Montgomery, Morgan, Orange, Owen, Perry, Switzerland, Vanderburgh, Warrick, Washington and Union Counties.
Contiguous Counties
Also Eligible:
Kentucky: Boone, Breckinridge, Carroll, Daviess, Gallatin, Hancock, Hardin, Henderson, Jefferson, Meade, Oldham, and Trimble Counties.
Ohio: Butler, and Hamilton Counties.
Presidential Designation M4882, Amendment 1: Impacted Area: Indiana
Triggering Disaster:
Severe Storms, Straightline Winds, Tornadoes and Flooding that occurred between March 30 through April 9, 2025.
about candidates and voting information ahead of the primary election.
“We see this as a natural extension of our reporting,” DeCriscio said. “Our mission is to provide reliable, factbased information that helps our community make informed decisions. Hosting a public forum and publishing a comprehensive candidate questionnaire ensures voters have direct access to the people asking to represent them.”
She added that convening candidates and community members in the same space reflects the newspaper’s role beyond publishing.
“Local newspapers have always served as a forum for civic life,” DeCriscio said. “By bringing candidates and residents together at the Tivoli, we’re helping create transparency and accountability while giving the community the information it needs in one place.”
Coverage of the “Meet the Candidates” event will be published online at theowennews.org and featured in the May issue of The Owen News Candidates interested in participating or submitting an introduction in advance should contact The Owen News for additional details.
Application Deadline: April 13, 2026
Primary Counties
Eligible: Indiana: Warren County.
Contiguous Counties
Also Eligible: Illinois: Vermillion County.
Indiana: Benton, Fountain, Tippecanoe, and Vermillion Counties.
Presidential Designation M4882: Impacted Area: Indiana Triggering Disaster:
Severe Storms, Straightline Winds, Tornadoes and Flooding that occurred between March 30 through April 9, 2025.
Application Deadline: April 21, 2026
Primary Counties
Eligible: Indiana: Clay County Contiguous Counties
Also Eligible:
Indiana: Greene, Owen, Parke, Putnam, Sullivan, and Vigo Counties
More Resources
On farmers.gov, the Disaster Assistance Discovery Tool, Disaster Assistance-at-a-Glance fact sheet and Loan Assistance Tool can help you determine program or loan options. To file a Notice of Loss or to ask questions about available programs, contact your local USDA Service Center. FEMA offers different assistance programs for individual citizens, public groups including government agencies and private nonprofit organizations. To find the FEMA help you need following a disaster event, visit fema.gov/ assistance.
REMOVED | FROM PAGE 1
the State of Indiana consists of 150 pages.
“If the form is only two pages and it takes you 150 pages to explain all the details and ramifications, it is evidence there’s a little bit more to this than might appear,” he said.
He noted that similar errors were made by multiple candidates, suggesting confusion with the form rather than intentional misconduct.
Voelker said he would weigh whether the forms were delinquent or defective. He noted that delinquency has civil penalties attached to it, unless the election board unanimously votes to waive them. Defectiveness, on the other hand, is given a period of time to address the issue or issues beforehand.
He also thanked Rogers who “pointed out some systemic failures in our county” and agreed that the issue is likely statewide. He called it “a good teachable moment.”
Coffin concurred, saying that his approach is to have candidates on the ballot unless there is no choice to do so provided in the legal remedies. He said the challengers “call you to account” and thanked the candidates, noting, “These are judgements of law, not judgement of person.”
He thanked Voelker and his other colleagues for being nonpartisan in their shared work.
“It’s not that we’ve never disagreed, but we’ve always gotten along,” he said. “I’m grateful because when you take an oath, if you’re a poll worker or an election board worker, you quit being a Democrat or a Republican. You become a citizen representing the interests of the citizen.”
He then said that many of the challenges were technical challenges.
“Error is not fraud. Error is error,” Coffin said.
He said a mistake on a form does not invalidate the entire form. He stressed issues with delinquent and defective CFAs or campaign finance reports, which he said he intends to follow up on. Those issues can still be brought up in a separate hearing to cure deficiencies in those forms, as campaign finance extends until that particular campaign finance committee is formally disbanded. During those additional hearings, the board can issue fines, penalties or referrals based on the CFA forms.
The election board then considered the challenges, candidate by candidate.
Dustin “Dusty” White, Republican candidate for County Assessor
The election board first considered the
challenge for Dustin “Dusty” White, the only Republican candidate for County Assessor. The challenge was brought forth by Rogers.
Voelker said that the overriding factor in his view is that White did not submit a CAN-12 with his CAN-2 and that the law says that the clerk shall not accept a CAN-2 without a CAN-12, which cannot be amended or added after the fact.
A CAN-2 is the form used to declare a nomination for the primary ballot on either the Republican or Democratic ticket, while a CAN-12 establishes a campaign’s finance committee.
Voelker said not filling a CAN-12 disqualifies a candidate from a primary ballot and that this was clearly an error but that the law was clear.
“We don’t have wiggle room,” he said.
He said this overrides the other challenges raised in the challenge. Because this would make it an open ballot position, with no Republican candidate, the party has the ability to caucus White to place him on the November ballot as a Republican. The deadline to do so is July 3. He also has the option to run as an independent.
Coffin also felt like the board did not have a choice and that it was simply an error with no malfeasance.
“I hope it serves, not just in his case, but it serves as the warning I was talking about earlier,” Coffin said. “You need to take this stuff seriously. You can’t just walk in and say, ‘Hoodie doody.’”
Voelker moved to disqualify White from appearing on the Republican primary ballot, and Coffin seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously, 3-0.
This leaves no candidate for either party for county assessor.
Walter Newman, Republican candidate for County Council District 1
The first of the two “open and shut” cases considered was the challenge for Walter Newman, Republican candidate for County Council District 1. During his testimony the day prior, Newman said it was his intent to run as an independent and that when filing the form, he did not wish to make a party selection.
The challenge for his candidacy was filed by Risk because Newman did not vote in the Republican primary during the last two elections, which is a requirement for party eligibility. The other option, according to the CAN-2 form, is certification from the county’s party chair, which Newman did not receive.
Voelker said that he felt the law was clear and Coffin agreed. Coffin said if Newman wants to run
as an independent in the fall as he intended to do, he still can and should do so, but he is not eligible to run as a Republican.
Voelker moved to disqualify Newman from appearing on the primary ballot, and Coffin seconded the motion before it passed 3-0.
This leaves Loretta Foster and Lori L. Warner on the Republican ballot, and Sandra K. Calvert on the Democratic ballot. Lori Warner and Calvert also faced CAN-1 challenges of their own.
William D. Fulk, Republican candidate for County Council District 4
The other “open and shut” case heard by the election board was the challenge for William D. Fulk, Republican candidate for County Council District 4.
Fulk was also challenged by Risk for the same reasons as Newman—he did not vote in the last two primaries or receive certification from the party chair.
Fulk did not provide testimony the day prior like Newman, but like Newman, he too could run as an independent.
Coffin moved to disqualify Fulk from appearing on the Republican ballot. Voelker seconded the motion, which passed unanimously.
This leaves Andy Wood as the only Republican on the GOP primary ballot for the position. There is not currently a candidate on the Democratic ticket.
Sandra K. Calvert, Democratic candidate for County Council District 1
The election board then considered the challenge for Sandra K. Calvert, Democratic candidate for County Council District 1.
The challenge was filed by Rogers.
Voelker said that the only aspect that had merit to him was missing a section in the middle that specifies how one’s name should appear on the ballot. He said there was another aspect challenged saying that Calvert did not sign the CAN-2 under oath. Voelker said that was proven to be not true. Whether or not the forms were signed under oath was of the aspects continually called into question with several of Rogers’ challenges.
He called the failure to specify how the name should appear on the ballot a “harmless error.”
Coffin concurred.
“If you look at that form, that doesn’t look like a signature block. In all the forms we’ve seen, that’s the one that least looks like a signature block. Anybody can miss it. I’ve missed it myself, in former times,” he said.
In addition, several of
“You need to take this stuff seriously. You can’t just walk in and say, ‘Hoodie doody.’”
— Frank Coffin Owen County Election Board Vice Chair “
Rogers’ challenges also questioned the signatures from the clerk’s office. Coffin said that in his opinion, the seals and file stamps on the documents show the clerk’s office’s intention to accept the documents.
The election board unanimously voted to deny the challenge and uphold Calvert appearing on the primary ballot.
Calvert is the only Democratic candidate on the primary ballot for the position, meaning she has secured the party nomination for the general election and will appear on that ballot as well. In November, she will run against either Foster or Lori Warner who will secure the GOP bid. Lori Warner’s challenge can be found below. If Newman refiles as an independent, he would also appear on the ballot for consideration of this council spot.
Leonard “Sam” Hobbs, Republican candidate for Sheriff Next, the election board considered the challenge of Leonard “Sam” Hobbs’ candidacy for Owen County Sheriff on the Republican ticket. Hobbs is currently a county commissioner.
The challenge was filed by Rogers and centered around Hobbs’ CAN-2 form, but her testimony noted issues with the CFA forms. Because they were not on the official challenge document, the board could not consider them.
Voelker noted that the challenge alleged delinquency in the forms, but that to him it appeared as if they were filed or attempted to be filed but done incorrectly. He specified that the law is different depending on if a form is delinquent or defective, with defective forms receiving an opportunity for correction. He noted that Hobbs’ testimony acknowledged errors in the forms, which Hobbs filed corrected versions the day before, following the election board hearing.
Failure to correct the forms could lead to civil penalties.
Voelker said that he believes the intent is for CFA forms to be treated differently than the CAN-2 and CAN-12 forms because they have separate civil penalties.
Coffin agreed citing the fact that the financial reporting extends beyond the life of any given
campaign and said he intended to press for audits on the CFA forms.
Part of the findings included that the campaign financial reports are in controversy in some way and that the board would hold a separate hearing to audit all past or unfilled campaign finance reports and reporting requirements.
Voelker moved to deny the challenge and for the board to do a continuing audit on the CFA forms. Coffin seconded the motion, which passed 3-0.
Hobbs, who is a former two-term Owen County Sheriff, will appear on the Republican primary ballot against incumbent Ryan T. White. There is not currently a candidate from the Democratic Party for sheriff.
Amy L. Meier, Republican candidate for County Surveyor
The election board then considered the challenge for Amy L. Meier’s candidacy for County Surveyor on the Republican ballot.
The challenge was filed by Rogers, who is also running for surveyor on the Republican ticket. While the challenges centered upon similar technical issues as other candidates, there was also a challenge on Meier’s residency, which the election board did not substantiate.
Voelker did specifically note that there were several blocks of questions not filled out on Meier’s CAN-12, which should have at least included “N/A” instead of leaving them blank. However, because they were not part of the CAN1 challenge, despite being included in testimony, the board did not feel that they could issue a finding on the form under the challenge that was filed.
“I think the state of the CAN-12 was a disgrace to be blunt about that, “ Coffin said, adding that leaving questions like who is your spouse blank bothered him. “She just didn’t bother [to answer the questions], and I was troubled by that. But at the same time that my being troubled by that is irrelevant because the challenger didn’t bring it up.”
Voelker said that Meier would be included in the board’s future hearing on financial forms.
“Those were substantial errors that there really is no excuse for,” Voelker began.
“Neglect,” Coffin interjected.
“It was neglectful. It really was,” Voelker finished.
Voelker moved to deny the challenge, and Coffin seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Lori L. Warner, Republican candidate for County Council District 1
The election board then considered the CAN-1 challenge for Republican candidate for County Council District 1, Lori L. Warner. Rogers filed the challenge.
Similar technical issues from other challenges were present.
One point that did have some merit was that the CFA-1 form was erroneously filed without a signature. Voelker said that the guide for the election board states that if a candidate files without one, the election board may file one on their behalf without a signature. To him, the oversight of it not being signed does not qualify as a reason to remove a candidate from the ballot.
Voelker moved to deny the challenge, which Coffin seconded. The motion passed
A Chaotic Response
The incident began in northwestern Owen County at approximately 12:32 a.m. when authorities with the Owen County Sheriff’s Department responded to a disturbance at a residence on Private Road 525 West. Dispatchers warned responding officers that a physical fight had occurred and one participant was no longer breathing.
Upon arrival, the first responding officer encountered Mayhew walking along the roadway. According to the probable cause affidavit, she appeared highly distressed, with blood covering her face and clothing and a visible laceration on her cheek.
While Mayhew initially requested to be left alone, she allegedly told the officer, “They were trying to get her for that girl not breathing,” and urged him to “go down there and get that girl breathing.”
Life-Saving Efforts at the Scene
At the residence, the officer discovered the property owner performing CPR on Moore, who was found lying on her back near a rock pile and a fire pit. Despite the use of an Automated
2-1, with Stutsman voting against the motion.
Norman “Norm” C. Warner, Republican candidate for County Commissioner District 1
Next, the election board considered the challenge for Republican candidate for County Commissioner District 1, Norman “Norm” C. Warner. The challenge was filed by Rogers.
In addition to the same technical issues from other challenges, the board noted several errors on his CFA, which were not brought up on the CAN1 challenge form but did come up in testimony.
Voelker moved to deny the challenge and to talk further about the issues on the CFA forms. The motion was seconded by Coffin and passed 3-0.
Norm Warner will appear on the Republican primary ballot in a contested race against fellow Republican hopeful Jeffery Johnson.
Nicholas Pecenica, Democratic candidate for County Clerk
Finally, the election board considered the challenge for Democratic candidate Nicholas Pecenica for Owen County Clerk, which was also filed by Rogers.
Pecenica was challenged on
External Defibrillator (AED) and continued life-saving efforts by authorities and first responders with the Cataract Volunteer Fire Department, Moore never regained consciousness. She was later pronounced deceased at Putnam County Hospital.
Witness Accounts of the Struggle Witnesses told investigators that the evening had been calm until an argument erupted while Taylor Mayhew—Samantha’s brother and the victim’s boyfriend—had briefly stepped away.
A male witness informed police that Moore had been sitting quietly when Samantha Mayhew began aggressively questioning her regarding the custody of her child. The confrontation escalated when Samantha Mayhew allegedly grabbed Moore by her hoodie and tackled her backward into a rock pile.
Taylor Mayhew reported returning to the fire to find Samantha on top of Moore. He admitted
residency, which was disputed by utility bills, in addition to the other technical issues.
Voelker moved to deny the challenge, and Coffin seconded the motion. The motion passed 2-0-1, with Stutsman abstaining because she and Pecenica will be opponents in the general election, with Pecenica being the only Democratic candidate on the primary ballot, securing the party nod, and Stutsman being the only GOP candidate on the primary ballot.
Closing remarks from the election board
After concluding with the last challenge, the election board members each offered closing statements about next steps.
Voelker said he plans on making recommendations on how the voter registration office processes the paperwork moving forward as well as encouraging additional training from the local Republican Party. He also said there would be ongoing hearings about the CFA forms.
Coffin thanked Rogers, noting that while there might be disappointment in some of the outcomes, there is remedy for the challengers if they so choose.
Stutsman said she wants to work together to ensure candidates have the resources they need and that her office
to “slamming” into his sister to pull her off the victim. Witnesses suggested the injuries to Samantha’s face occurred during this secondary struggle with her brother as he attempted to intervene.
Evidence of Intoxication and Conflict
Police noted that Samantha Mayhew exhibited strong signs of intoxication, including the odor of alcohol, slurred speech and unsteady balance. While Moore had reportedly smoked marijuana earlier in the evening, witnesses stated she had not been drinking and remained “calm” until the physical assault began.
During the investigation, Mayhew’s behavior was described as erratic. She reportedly escaped from the back of a patrol vehicle multiple times. At one point, she allegedly stated, “I did this,” before later telling officers, “I promise I didn’t do this.”
Ongoing Investigation
A search warrant was executed at the property, where the probable cause affidavit notes Indiana State Police crime scene investigators located blood evidence on the ground, a white table and a hat near the site
encourages candidates to complete all areas of the forms to avoid future technical challenges. She said her office cannot tell candidates how to answer any particular question.
Voelker stressed that they can “very adamantly say every single thing needs to be answered” and to not leave blank fields.
Coffin said he will be reporting the information to his party chairman, Bill Breeden.
Lorenz offered that there were other challenges which could have been made but were not filed.
“Some of the other candidates may find these same deficits in their portfolio, but they were not challenged,” Lorenz said. “[Those that were challenged and upheld] are sort of standing as surrogates for the people that might have been challenged.”
Voelker’s focus was on preventing these issues moving forward and addressing the CFA forms in a future hearing. As of press time, that hearing had not yet been scheduled.
“You can’t put toothpaste back in the tube,” he said. “We understand that for things that have happened in the past, but we can get it right going forward and stay there. And that’s kind of our goal, I believe, for all of us. Let’s tighten up the ship and get it sailing straight.”
of the struggle.
Samantha Mayhew was treated for her facial injuries at a local hospital before being booked into jail. The investigation remains active.
Legal Proceedings
Following a medical evaluation, Samantha Mae Mayhew was remanded to the Owen County Security Center. During an initial hearing on March 2, her bond was set at $30,000 (cash, surety, or 10%).
The court has scheduled the following dates for the case: pretrial conference, April 16; final pretrial conference, July 10; and a trial by jury, Aug. 18. According to Indiana law, involuntary manslaughter is “the unjustified, unexcused, unintentional killing of one human being by another human being without malice aforethought.”
The involuntary manslaughter charge Mayhew faces is a Level 5 Felony. In Indiana, the maximum penalty for such a crime is a sixyear prison sentence and a fine of up to $10,000.
Speculation on Social Media
In response to growing social media chatter, the Owen County Sheriff’s Office issued the following statement via its
Facebook page on March 3:
“The internet and social media is an amazing thing for many reasons, but an absolute super spreader of misinformation in many instances. For some reason people love to speculate and spread things they ‘know for a fact’ on social media regarding criminal cases. In reference to the case involving the arrest of Samantha Mayhew, we have not released any information due to one imperative part of the investigation not yet being complete. While we understand the probable cause affidavit is public record and has been obtained and published on other sources, we disagree with this practice until all facts are made available. Please do not post speculations, theories, opinions or rumors out of respect for the victim and her family. We have not made a press release or announced a cause of death, because a cause of death has not yet been determined. An autopsy was conducted today (March 3), and that information will be made public when it is available.”
Prosecutor Benjamin Kim reminded the public that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
FATAL | FROM PAGE 1
Samantha Mae Mayhew
FRIDAY, MARCH 6, 2026
BRIEF
| FROM PAGE 1
a notice of intent to seek habitual offender status.
According to information released by the Owen County Prosecutor’s Office, a jury trial was held Feb. 17 to Feb. 20. The jury found Holding guilty on both charges.
Following the trial, Holding admitted the allegations contained in the State’s notice of intent to seek habitual offender status.
Sentencing is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Friday, March 20 in the Owen County Circuit Court I.
Prosecutor Benjamin Kim and Chief Deputy Prosecutor Parker Trulock represented the State. Owen County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) Lieutenant Clint Wampler served as the State’s designated witness at trial.
The prosecutor’s office issued special thanks to the officers of the OCSD, Indiana State Police and the Indiana State Police laboratory for their “dedication and service in helping secure this guilty verdict and [for] keeping the community safe.”
Defendant sentenced for child molesting
Heath Eli Bennett of Clayton, IN pleaded guilty on Feb. 4 in Owen County Circuit Court I to a Level 4 Felony charge of child molesting. According to information released by the Owen County Prosecutor’s Office, the terms of the plea agreement allowed Bennett to be sentenced in the court’s discretion with a maximum sentence of eight years at the Indiana Department of Correction.
The court also sentenced Bennett to lifetime sex offender registration and a $500 sexual assault victims’ assistance fee and $100 child abuse prevention fee as required by law.
Chief Deputy Prosecutor Parker Trulock represented the State in this case.
The prosecutor’s office extended its appreciation to the Owen County Sheriff’s Department, Owen County Department of Child Services and Susie’s Place Child Advocacy Center for “helping secure justice in this case.”
EPA
to host public meeting March 17
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will host a public meeting as an update to the Franklin Street Groundwater Superfund site.
The meeting will take place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on March 17 at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer.
The EPA will present the data that has been collected so far. The presentation will be posted online after the meeting.
Public testing for vote machines is March 24
MicroVote machines used for the primary election in Owen County will be tested at 9:30 a.m. on March 24.
This is a process in which the election board selects individuals to test the function of the machines to ensure they work properly ahead of the start of early voting.
The public is welcome to observe this process, which will take place on the first floor of the Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.
GoFundMe established to help family
Rev. Bill Pursell and his wife Lillian are receiving community support after a fire tore through their rural Freeman Road home on Saturday, Feb. 7, leaving them displaced. The couple was not injured, and their home was reportedly insured. They were also able to evacuate their pets from the home unharmed.
Bill serves as Pastor of the Cloverdale Church of the Nazarene. Both he and Lillian are also wellknown locally for their many years of volunteer service as 4-H leaders/ volunteers, Owen County Fair Board officers and White River Poultry Club officers/volunteers to name a few. Bill also owned and operated Area Realty Key Associates near downtown Spencer.
As of March 1, a GoFund Me page set up for the family had generated 42 donations for a total of more than $3,500.
The GoFundMe page is accepting donations to help the family with immediate needs and recovery costs. Neighbors and friends are encouraged to share the fundraiser and offer support as the family begins to rebuild. Visit https://gofund. me/323d4a95a.
Daylight Saving
Time begins
March 8
It’s almost time to “spring forward.” Daylight saving time begins at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 8.
Digital devices, including computers, TVs and cell phones, will automatically update to the new time at 2 a.m., but all other clocks should be manually changed before going to bed on the night of Saturday, March 7, turning them ahead by one full hour.
Daylight saving time ends on the first Sunday of November each year. This year the clocks will
“fall back” an hour on Sunday, Nov. 1 at 2 a.m.
Owen Valley Fine Arts Festival
The first-ever Owen Valley Fine Arts Festival is scheduled for Sunday, March 8 from 1 to 4 p.m. This exciting, free communitywide celebration will take place throughout the Owen Valley High School Commons, café, main gymnasium and auditorium.
Be inspired by incredible artwork from talented OVHS students on display in the Commons, including special Senior Showcases you won’t want to miss.
The day’s performance lineup will include:
1 p.m. – State SendOff Performances (Patriot Hall). Cheer on the Owen Valley Winter Guard and Indoor Drumline as they perform their State Finals routines before heading into competition season.
2 p.m. – Big Band Live in the Café. The Owen Valley Big Band will perform their ISSMA setlist and more, featuring everything from classic swing to modern funk.
3 p.m. – Choir Q3 Concert. The Owen Valley Choir Program will take the stage for their Quarter 3 Concert. Come support the school’s travel choirs and enjoy music that’s sure to move you. (Please note: This concert has a $5 admission fee).
Keep your ears open throughout the day for solo and ensemble performances happening in the hallways.
This festival is set to be a celebration of the amazing talent, dedication, and creativity within the Owen Valley Fine Arts Department. Bring your friends, bring your family and spend the afternoon supporting the arts in our community.
SES students
win Patriot’s Pen competition
Spencer Elementary School students Mia Freeman and Bentley Ward recently received second and third place, respectively, in the recent Patriot’s Pen essay competition organized by the Spencer VFW Post #1405.
Mia, a sixth grader at SES, is the daughter of Shane and Stephanie Freeman.
Bentley, also a sixth grader at SES, is the son of Daniel and Crystal Ward.
The awards were presented by Sharron Barger, President of the VFW Post #1405 Auxiliary.
The Patriot’s Pen is a nationwide youth essay competition sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). Its goal is to encourage students to think about and express their views on patriotism, American history and civic
responsibility. MCES student builds box for U.S. Flag Rob Anderson, a fourth grader at McCormick’s Creek Elementary School (MCES), recently donated a handmade, one-ofa-kind storage box to the school. Each day Anderson proudly raises and lowers the school’s flags with care and respect. There was just one small problem, however; MCES did not have a proper place inside the school to store the flags. Rob, never one to shy away from a problem, would soon come up with the solution to build a storage box. He went on to work with his dad, Robert, to make it happen!
According to the MCES, thanks to Anderson’s “initiative, teamwork and craftsmanship, our flags have a safe and respectful home. We couldn’t be more proud of his leadership, responsibility and heart.” Anderson is the son of Robert and Rebecca Anderson of rural Gosport.
Firefighter visits Patricksburg Elementary
Third graders at Patricksburg Elementary School were treated to a special visitor on Feb. 19.
Retired firefighter Gary Brandt took time out of his schedule to speak to the students about his previous career with the Carmel Fire Department and his past service with the Indiana Task Force 1 / Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Urban Search and Rescue Team. Brandt now serves as a volunteer with the Patricksburg Community Volunteer Fire Department.
OVMS hosts Madam Mayhem
Owen Valley Middle School (OVMS) hosted one of the first and largest girls-only wrestling tournaments in the state of Indiana on Feb. 21. The Madam Mayhem brought together female wrestlers from 25 schools across Indiana, showcasing strength, grit and sportsmanship. Teams traveled from as far as Jasper and Indianapolis to compete in an event that continues to grow the sport of wrestling for young women.
NED Show comes to Gosport Elementary School
The NED Show entertained students at Gosport Elementary School on Feb. 23. Teaching three critical
skills, the story of a loveable cartoon character NED® is designed to give students the tools they need to become champions at school and in life. NED’s name serves as an acronym that makes the message easy to remember – Never Give Up, Encourage Others and Do Your Best®.
GES students enjoyed an engaging performance that focused on the importance of persistence, kindness, diligence and excellence. Humor, audience participation, storytelling and amazing yo-yo tricks all combined to make it a truly NEDucational experience.
For information about The NED Show, visit theNEDshow.com.
Safe Sitter® program is
March 20
The nationally recognized Safe Sitter® program is coming to the Purdue ExtensionOwen County office, 180 S. Washington St. in Spencer, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Friday, March 20. This program prepares students in grades 6 to 8 to be safe, responsible and confident babysitters.
Participants will learn essential skills including basic childcare, safety and injury prevention, first aid and how to handle emergencies. The class also covers behavior management and tips for running a successful babysitting business. Space is limited. Register by calling 812-829-5020. Cost is $20 per person.
Annual C.A.R.E Cornhole Tournament
The third annual Cops Applauding Recovery Efforts (C.A.R.E.) Cornhole Tournament and Family Cookout is set for Saturday, June 13 beginning at noon at the Owen County Fairgrounds in Spencer. The registration deadline is April 24. Signup online at https://forms.gle/ yN4iKej9oXTeqELy5. This event is hosted by the Owen County Drug and Alcohol Resource Team (DART). The meal will be catered by Scott Huffman.
Like to sing? Join the Community Choir
Come raise your voice with the Owen County Theatre & Arts Alliance Community Choir. The choir meets every Thursday evening from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the First Church of the Nazarene, 126 E. Market St., in Spencer. Singers of all experience levels are welcome. For more information, contact Michael Grubb at mjgrubb@gmail.com.
Care Partner Support Group meets at OCPL
Staff Report
Dementia Friendly Owen County, in conjunction with Area 10 Agency on Aging, has partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association to facilitate care partner support group meetings locally in 2026.
Support groups are held at the Owen County Public Library (OCPL) on the fourth
SWCD | FROM PAGE 1
was introduced by SWCD Executive Director Tammy Bingham and delivered a keynote address that was part personal heritage and part strategic vision.
A second-generation grain farmer from Lebanon, Lamb used the platform to “recruit” the audience into what he calls “Team Ag Indiana.”
“We all need to be on the side of agriculture. We’re a small group,” Lamb told the crowd. “What can you do that can help out agriculture? Because we need everybody.”
Lamb opened his remarks by reflecting on his roots, sharing photos of his father, a military veteran and firstgeneration farmer who started his operation by securing land via newspaper clippings mailed to him while he was stationed in Italy. He also displayed photos of himself as a child with his first toy tractors—items he still keeps today.
“If you grew up in agriculture, you know there’s just something special; it gets in your blood from a young age,” Lamb said, noting that at 59, he represents the average age of a Hoosier farmer—a statistic he hopes to change by encouraging more young people to enter the industry.
Despite being only the 38th largest state by land mass, Lamb highlighted that Indiana punches well
Thursday of each month. Questions should be directed to Amy Guerrettaz by calling 812-935-2582 or emailing aguerrettaz@ area10agency.org.
The meeting schedule through April 2026 is as follows:
- Thursday, Mar. 26, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- Thursday, Mar. 26, 5 to 6 p.m.
- Thursday, Apr. 23, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
above its weight class in global production. The state currently ranks first in popcorn and duck production, is among the top five in pork, corn, soybeans, eggs and poultry, and currently ranks as the seventh largest agricultural exporter in the nation.
Lamb specifically praised Owen County’s unique contribution to these statistics, noting the county’s strength in forest land and the hardwood industry.
“Owen County has a lot of patient farmers,” Lamb remarked, referring to the long-term stewardship required for timber, which contributes to a $10.5 billion industry statewide.
Lamb also addressed recent shifts in federal and state health policies, specifically the “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) movement. While initially nervous about how new federal and state leadership might view traditional agriculture, Lamb noted that the focus on “real food” has been a positive conversation starter.
- Thursday, Apr. 23, 5 to 6 p.m
Become a Dementia Friendly Business
Many Owen County organizations have completed Dementia Friendly Business training already, including McCormick’s Creek State Park, Owen County EMS, Owen Valley Fire Territory, Owen County Public Library,
Babbs Supermarket, Owen County Health Department, and Spencer Pride. Recently, staff from Area 10, Home Instead and Owen Valley Memory Care each participated in Dementia Live®! By simulating sensory and cognitive changes, participants experience what it may feel like to live with dementia - deepening empathy
and improving how we communicate, care, and connect.
Schedule a complimentary training, education event, or Dementia Live® experience for your business or group by contacting Area 10 Agency on Aging Dementia Outreach Specialist Amy Guerrettaz at 812-9352582 or aguerrettaz@ area10agency.org.
versa—it’s all agriculture,” he said. “We ought to be cheering every part of that food chain.”
The meeting also touched on the pressing issue of “lost” farmland.
Under Governor Mike Braun, Lamb is currently working on an executive order to identify barriers to local food production.
“I look at it as economic development,” Lamb said. “Anytime you turn dollars over in a local community like this, those dollars turn over several times.”
However, he cautioned against creating a divide
STYLE STATION
Lamb reported that Indiana lost 350,000 acres of farmland between 2010 and 2022 to residential and industrial development. While efficiency has allowed farmers to produce more food on less land, he emphasized that the state is now conducting studies every five years to monitor the trend.
Lamb concluded by urging Owen County
to us in agriculture,” he said, encouraging the community to find ways to add value to local products, such as turning raw hardwoods into finished barrels (not just staves) right here in Owen County.
The annual meeting also served as an opportunity for the SWCD to report on its conservation efforts.
District officials discussed ongoing partnerships between local, state and federal agencies to protect water quality and soil health, emphasizing that conservation is essential to the county’s
officers, with Owen County Councilman Anton Karl Neff later swearing in new board members Aaron Dunn and Jean Ann Schmittgens to begin their three-year terms of service. Dunn and Schmittgens join Abrell and fellow board of supervisors’ members Steve Fox and Doris Scully.
The evening also featured a plate dinner prepared by the Spencer VFW Post #1405 Auxiliary, along with 22 vendor booths and an array of silent auction items.
Second annual ON morel mushroom contest
Staff Report
Is it the thrill of the hunt, or the taste of the magnificent morel that drives Owen Countians wild? Whether foraging in the woods or frying up a batch of flavorful fungi is your favorite part of the annual spring tradition, The Owen News is pleased to announce the return of our annual Morel Mushroom Contest!
In addition to “Sweet Owen” bragging rights, the mushroom hunter who finds the largest morel (length + width) will receive $50, while second place will be awarded $25 and third place $10.
The contest is open to Owen County residents only and will officially close at 4 p.m. on Friday, May 29. Entries are free this year and are not limited, so keep hunting as the season progresses.
The winners of the second annual contest, which is sponsored by A Fungus Amoung Us, LLC, will be announced in our June 2026 issue. The contest is limited to yellow or gray morel (sponge) mushroom varieties. All entries must have been found in Owen County.
All entries must be measured at the Owen County Community Foundation, 60 E. Market St., Spencer, during their normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
As a reminder, morel mushrooms typically start to emerge when the soil temperature reaches around 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. They prefer air temperatures in the 60s and 70s during the day and no lower than 45 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit at night.
For the best longevity and to prevent mushrooms from going bad, mushrooms should be stored in a brown paper bag or lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
Storing them in plastic traps moisture, leading to a slimy texture and creates the potential for mold growth.
The best way to harvest morel mushrooms is to cut them at the base with scissors or a knife, or
How to contact your elected officials
Owen County Board of Commissioners
Leonard “Sam” Hobbs (President)
Represents: District 2 (Washington, Clay & Franklin Townships)
812-821-3828
sam.hobbs@owencounty. in.gov
David Risk (Vice President) Represents: District 3 (Lafayette, Morgan, Marion & Jefferson Townships) 765-712-0131 david.risk@owencounty. in.gov
Norman Warner III
Represents: District 1 (Jackson, Harrison, Jennings, Taylor, Montgomery & Wayne Townships) 812-585-7693 norman.warner@ owencounty.in.gov
Owen County Council
Polly Chesser (President) Represents: At-Large (county-wide) 812-821-2914
Anton Karl Neff (Vice President) Represents: District 2 (Washington Township) 812-829-4254
pinch them off at the base with your fingers. Cutting or pinching ensures that the mushroom is removed without damaging the mycelium, which is the underground network that helps the mushrooms grow.
Using a mesh bag is also recommended because it allows the spores to fall back to the ground as you continue your hunt, potentially helping to maintain or increase the morel population.
Nick Robertson Represents: District 1 (Harrison, Montgomery, Taylor & Wayne Townships) 812-829-6708
Steve Carrell Represents: District 3 (Jackson, Jennings, Lafayette & Morgan Townships) 317-507-9468
Verl Keith Represents: District 4 (Clay, Franklin, Jefferson & Marion Townships) 812-821-1211
Dan Browning Represents: At-Large (county-wide)
Morels are found in various habitats, often near dead or dying trees such as elms, poplars and ash trees, as well as in old apple orchards. Morel mushrooms are considered to be mycorrhizal, meaning they form a mutualistic relationship with the roots of trees. This relationship benefits both the fungus and the tree, with the fungus receiving carbohydrates from the plant and the plant gaining access to more water and nutrients from the soil due to the increased surface area provided by the mycelium of the fungus. This dual nature of morels— being both mycorrhizal and saprotrophic— explains why they can be found in a variety of environments, including around dead or dying trees.
Good luck and happy hunting!
812-828-1006
Joe Frye Represents: At-Large (county-wide) 812-821-1239
Spencer Town Council
Jon Stantz (President) jon.stantz@spencer.in.gov
Evan McKalip (Vice President) evan.mckalip@spencer. in.gov
Ginger Kohr ginger.kohr@spencer.in.gov
(Source: owencounty.in.gov and spencer.in.gov)
TRAVIS CURRY | THE OWEN NEWS
SESSION |
FROM PAGE 1 begins in early January, but the Indiana House and the Indiana Senate met in December to consider redistricting ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
The February Legislative Breakfast was sponsored by South Central Indiana REMC. Main Street Coffee served as the coffee sponsor, and unique to this month’s event was an additional breakfast spread from the Owen County Extension Homemakers.
All three of the county’s state legislators were present. They include Senator Rod Bray, District 37 and President Pro Tempore of the State Senate; Senator Eric Bassler, District 39; and Representative Bob Heaton, District 46 and majority whip.
The event was moderated by County Councilman Anton Neff.
Neff reminded folks that information on particular pieces of legislation, including their final versions and whether or not they had been signed into law by the governor could be found at www.iga.in.gov.
Neff encouraged folks to bring issues to the legislators sooner rather than later.
“It’s never too early to
think about things that need attention for the next go-around. A lot of times, and man, I’m guilty of that too, you kind of wait until it’s perhaps a little too late to actually talk about nuts and bolts on some things,” he said. “It’s good to engage with your state elected officials now and yearround about the issues that concern you because there sometimes needs to be time to research things and develop and draft legislation that simply can’t be done in January of next year.”
Neff also recognized Bassler, who will not be seeking reelection.
“He will be retiring here at the end of the year. He has served or will have served 12 years as senator, and just as a point of personal
privilege, I want to say that I’ve always been impressed with Senator Bassler,” Neff said, recalling how he met Bassler at a pancake breakfast fundraiser for Owen Valley High School
prom before Bassler ran for office. Neff asked for opening comments from legislators before taking questions and comments from the audience. Bray began and noted
that the session ended around 6 p.m. the night before.
“Today we can kind of outline some of the things that happened during the
SESSION | PAGE 24
Owen County three legislators speak to constituents at the February 28 Legislative Breakfast. // From left, County Councilman Anton Neff who serves as the moderator for the Legislative Breakfasts introduces Owen County’s legislators, which include Senator Rod Bray, Senator Eric Bassler and Representative Bob Heaton.
PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY ANTON NEFF.
By Kris Samick S-OCS Director of Communications
At Owen Valley High School (OVHS), preparing students for life beyond graduation is more than a goal… it’s a commitment.
Through its innovative Next Level Programs of Study, known locally as Patriot Pathways, OVHS is opening doors to hands-on, realworld experiences that empower students to discover their passions and build meaningful futures.
Designed to align with Indiana’s workforce needs and post-secondary expectations, our Patriot Pathways provide structured sequences of courses that allow students to explore career interests while still in high school. From Engineering and Biomedical Sciences to Agriculture, Business, Criminal Justice, Civic Arts and beyond, OVHS offers one of the most diverse selections of career pathways in the region.
This fall, OVHS is proud to expand those opportunities even further with
the addition of three new pathways:
Construction, Teaching Careers and Cosmetology. These additions reflect the school’s ongoing commitment to responding to workforce demand and student interest. Whether students see themselves leading a classroom, managing a construction site or building a career in the beauty industry, OVHS is creating opportunities to turn those ambitions into action.
Patriot Pathways are intentionally designed to provide hands-on learning experiences that mirror real workplace environments.
Students in Engineering tackle design challenges and problem-solving projects.
Agriculture students engage in animal science, horticulture and natural resources management.
Those pursuing Health Sciences gain exposure to medical interventions and human body systems.
PATHWAYS | PAGE 24
Owen Valley High School Sports Calendar
April 1
5:30 p.m. – Varsity softball vs Bloomington South at Bloomington South.
April 2
5:30 p.m. – Varsity softball vs North CentralFarmersburg at North Central-Farmersburg.
5:30 p.m. – Varsity co-ed track & field vs Edgewood at Owen Valley.
April 3
5:30 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs Mooresville Christian Academy at Owen Valley.
April 6
5 p.m. – Varsity boys’ golf vs South Vermillion at South Vermillion.
April 7
5 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs Bloomfield at Owen Valley.
5:30 p.m. – Varsity softball vs Eminence at Eminence.
April 8
5:30 p.m. – Varsity softball vs Southmont at Southmont.
April 9
5 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs North CentralFarmersburg at North Central-Farmersburg.
5 p.m. – Varsity co-ed track & field vs Northview, Clay City, and South Putnam at South Putnam.
5 p.m. – Varsity boys’ golf vs South Putnam at Owen Valley.
April 10 6 p.m. – Varsity softball at Terre Haute South Lady Braves Bash at Terre Haute South.
April 13
5 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs LintonStockton at Owen Valley.
April 14
4:30 p.m. – Varsity girls’ tennis vs Edgewood at Edgewood.
April 15
5:30 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs Brown County at Owen Valley.
April 16
4:30 p.m. – Varsity boys’ golf vs Brown County at Brown County.
April 18
Noon – Varsity baseball vs Shakamak at Shakamak.
Noon – Junior varsity baseball vs Shakamak at Shakamak.
April 20
4:30 p.m. – Varsity girls’ tennis vs North Daviess at Owen Valley.
April 21
5 p.m. – Varsity boys’ golf vs Northview at Northview.
5 p.m. – Varsity softball vs Northview at Owen Valley.
5:30 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs Northview at Northview.
Cloverdale High School Sports Calendar
April 4
10 a.m. –Varsity baseball vs Mooresville Christian Academy at Mooresville Christian Academy.
April 6
5:30 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs UnionDuggar at UnionDuggar.
5:30 p.m. – Varsity softball vs UnionDuggar at UnionDuggar.
April 7
5:30 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs Eminence at Cloverdale.
5:30 p.m. – Varsity co-ed track & field vs North Putnam at Eminence at North Putnam.
6 p.m. – Varsity softball vs White River Valley at White River Valley.
April 9
5:30 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs Clay City at Clay City.
April 11
10 a.m. – Varsity baseball vs White River Valley at Cloverdale.
10 a.m. – Varsity co-ed track & Field at Patriot Challenge at Terre Haute North.
10 a.m. –Varsity softball vs Traders Point Christian Schools at Cloverdale.
1 p.m. –Varsity boys’ golf at Northview Invitational at Forest Park.
April 13
5 p.m. – Varsity boys’ golf vs West Vigo at Clover Meadows.
5 p.m. – Varsity softball vs Monrovia at Monrovia.
April 14
5:30 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs West Vigo at Cloverdale.
5:30 p.m. – Varsity softball vs West Vigo at Cloverdale.
6 p.m. – Varsity co-ed track & field vs White River Valley and Lighthouse Christian Academy at White River Valley.
April 16
5 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs South Putnam at South Putnam.
5 p.m. – Varsity boys’ golf vs LintonStockton and North Central-Farmersburg at Sullivan Elks.
5 p.m. – Varsity softball vs South Putnam at South Putnam.
April 18
9 a.m. – Varsity boys’ golf at Edgewood Invite at Cascade Golf Course.
10 a.m. – Varsity boys’ baseball at Putnam County Tournament at Cloverdale.
10 a.m. – Varsity softball at Putnam County Tournament at Cloverdale.
April 20
April 22
4:30 p.m. – Varsity boys’ golf vs Terre Haute South at Owen Valley.
5:30 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs West Vigo at West Vigo.
5:30 p.m. – Varsity softball vs West Vigo at West Vigo.
7 p.m. – Junior varsity baseball vs West Vigo at West Vigo.
April 23
5 p.m. – Varsity girls’ tennis vs West Vigo at West Vigo.
5 p.m. – Varsity coed track & field vs South Putnam at Owen Valley.
5 p.m. – Varsity boys’ golf vs Clay City at Clay City.
April 24
5:30 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs Eastern Greene at Owen Valley.
7 p.m. – Junior varsity baseball vs Eastern Greene at Owen Valley.
4:30 p.m. –Varsity boys’ golf vs Shakamak at Clover Meadows.
5 p.m. –Varsity softball vs Mooresville Christian Academy at Cloverdale.
April 23
4 p.m. –Varsity boys’ golf vs Monrovia at Monrovia.
5 p.m. –Varsity baseball vs Northview at Northview.
5 p.m. – Varsity softball vs Northview at Northview.
5 p.m. – Varsity co-ed track & field vs South Putnam, Lighthouse Christian Academy and Owen Valley at Owen Valley.
April 24
5 p.m. – Varsity softball vs Shakamak at Shakamak.
Owen Valley Middle School Sports Calendar
April 6
6 p.m. – Coed track & field vs Batchelor at Batchelor.
April 7
7 p.m. – Seventh and eighth grade softball vs Eminence at Eminence.
April 8
5:30 p.m. –Seventh and eighth grade baseball vs Eminence at Owen Valley.
5:30 p.m. –Seventh and eighth grade softball vs Cloverdale at Owen Valley.
April 11
8:30 a.m. – Coed track & field at Patriot Invitational at Owen Valley.
April 13
5 p.m. – Coed track & field vs Linton-Stockton and Shakamak at LintonStockton.
April 14
6 p.m. – Seventh and eighth grade softball vs North Daviess at North Daviess.
April 15
5:30 p.m. – Co-ed track & field vs North
Clay at Owen Valley.
April 16
6 p.m. – Seventh and eighth grade softball vs White River Valley at White River Valley.
6 p.m. – Seventh and eighth grade baseball vs John Wooden Middle School at John Wooden Middle School.
April 20
5:30 p.m. –Seventh and eighth grade baseball vs Edgewood at Owen Valley.
5:30 p.m. – Co-
ed track & field vs South Putnam and Greencastle at South Putnam.
April 22
5:30 p.m. –Seventh and eighth grade baseball vs Greencastle at Owen Valley.
5:30 p.m. – Coed track & field vs Eastern Greene at Eastern Greene.
6 p.m. – Seventh and eighth grade softball vs Batchelor at Owen Valley.
April 27
6 p.m. – Seventh and eighth grade
April 25
Noon – Varsity baseball vs Clay City at Clay City.
April 27
5 p.m. – Varsity co-ed track & field vs Eastern Greene at Owen Valley.
April 28
5 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs Cloverdale at Owen Valley.
5 p.m. – Varsity softball vs Cloverdale at Owen Valley.
April 29
5 p.m. – Varsity softball vs Greencastle at Greencastle.
5 p.m. – Varsity girls’ tennis vs South Vermillion at South Vermillion.
5:30 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs Greencastle at Greencastle.
May 2
Noon – Varsity softball vs Monrovia at Owen Valley.
April 25
9 a.m. – Varsity boys’ golf at Bob Arnett Invitational at Rea Park.
10 a.m. – Varsity co-ed track & field vs Edgewood at Edgewood.
April 27
4:30 p.m. – Varsity boys’ golf vs North Putnam at North Putnam.
5 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs Bethesda Christian at Cloverdale.
5:30 p.m. – Varsity softball vs Bloomfield at Cloverdale.
April 28
5 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs Owen Valley at Owen Valley.
5 p.m. – Varsity co-ed track & field vs North CentralFarmersburg at Cloverdale.
5:30 p.m. –Varsity softball vs Owen Valley at Owen
baseball vs Cloverdale at Owen Valley.
April 28
6 p.m. – Seventh and eighth grade baseball vs Bedford at Bedford.
6 p.m. – Seventh and eighth grade softball vs Edgewood at Owen Valley.
April 30
5 p.m. – Co-ed track & field vs Owen Valley at Cloverdale.
6 p.m. – Seventh and eighth grade softball vs Batchelor at Batchelor.
Valley.
April 30
5 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs Parke Heritage at Parke Heritage.
5 p.m. – Varsity softball vs Parke Heritage at Parke Heritage.
5:30 p.m. – Varsity co-ed track & field vs Cascade and TriWest at Tri-West.
May 1
5 p.m. –Varsity softball vs Greencastle at Coverdale.
May 4
5 p.m. – Varsity boys’ golf vs South Putnam at Clover Meadows.
5:30 p.m. – Varsity baseball vs South Vermillion at South Vermillion.
5:30 p.m. – Varsity softball vs Clay City at Cloverdale.
May 4
6 p.m. – Coed track & field vs Edgewood at Owen Valley.
May 5
6 p.m. – Seventh and eighth grade softball vs Edgewood at Edgewood.
May 7
5:30 p.m. –Seventh and eighth grade softball vs Greencastle at Greencastle.
5:30 p.m. –Seventh and eighth grade baseball vs Greencastle at Greencastle.
Outdoor Type: It’s finally fishing season
By Larry LaGrange Guest Columnist
I used to fish only for bass. Now I’ve wised up and realize that bluegill, crappie and a few other species can be a lot of fun, which is what fishing is all about. The second angling perk is that panfish make great table fare. You just can’t beat properly fried crappie or bluegill fillets. It makes me hungry just thinking about it.
After a long Indiana winter, and they’re all long, it’s fishing season and time to restock my freezer fish supply. There’s something about watching a cork with a minnow below slowly slide under. You know when that happens that it’s a crappie or maybe a bass.
I never get tired of seeing my cork disappear. That usually happens much more frequently with crappie than in typical bass fishing. One’s patience is tested when bass casting for hours has yielded few results.
Crappie don’t go deeply into semi-hibernation in the winter. That makes them a favorite target of ice fishermen and one of the first species to bite after the freeze thaws. Several local guys go south for crappie early in the year. Alabama and Mississippi are popular destinations. In terms of record fish, Old Miss has a long-standing crappie record. A five-pound, three-ounce behemoth white was taken below Lake Enid dam in 1957. The black crappie record is five pounds even caught from a private lake in
Missouri in 2006. A crappie success story happened a few years ago just about this time. A retired teacher and I were using minnows in a small private lake on a very
windy but warm day. Boat control became difficult, and that usually means trouble for successful crappie fishing. Crappie are very relaxed, laid-back critters. They like to look at an offering awhile before giving in and striking. That’s a general rule and there are exceptions, but usually the boat must be anchored, and one must place his bait in the exact spot. Wind makes that difficult, but stiff breezes also stir fish activity. We had no success, until…
We got out of the wind in a small cove and tried a little brush pile that I’ve caught a few out of over the years. This time, zilch. The wind blew my boat into the brush, and that nixed any future
chance we may have had there.
While we were more or less stuck, on a whim I tossed my minnow about 30 feet further down the bank into about five feet of open water. Pretty soon, down went the bobber, and I set the hook into a very nice 12-inch crappie.
I thought to myself how strange it was to catch a crappie in that spot, with no obvious cover around. I had never caught anything in that area before. I put on another minnow, tossed back to the spot, and pretty soon another nice crappie joined the first in the livewell.
I told my buddy to come up to the front of the boat and that we could both fish this area. Maybe I was onto
something. He eagerly complied.
In about an hour, we boated 19 beautiful crappie from a spot the size of a bathtub. A couple were in the 15-inch range. We quit fishing while they were still biting. That was enough for my friend to take home and clean.
Later I looked at this spot on a calm day when the water had cleared. There was something dark on the bottom, but I couldn’t tell what it was. Maybe a big stump, maybe something else. Whatever it was, it was a crappie spawning magnet on that spring day. Sometimes in fishing you just catch a break.
‘Tis the season. Best of luck to you. Often that’s what it takes.
OWEN RESIDENTS OF ALL AGES
Mushrooms must be found in Owen County. Winner Announced in June Issue.
Crappie are fun to catch and great eating. The author’s granddaughter, Mercy, is shown while having a good time pulling them in. PHOTO SUBMITTED BY LARRY LAGRANGE.
Driftwood Outdoors: Time to prepare for turkey season
By Brandon Butler Guest Columnist
Turkey season is approaching fast.
Across the Midwest, most turkey hunters are less than two months away from early morning drives fueled by gas station coffee. If things go well, strutting gobblers will send chills down our spines on opening day. For me, there is no rush in the outdoor world like the one felt while trying to lure an old limb hanger into range.
Greening hardwoods dotted with red buds and dogwoods represent the arrival of spring. Gobbling turkeys, aggressive crappie and morel mushrooms lure us outdoors. The excitement builds quickly this time of year, but successful hunts rarely happen by accident. The best hunts result from preparation, and right now is the window when getting ready matters most.
Preparation for the coming season begins
with taking inventory. Pull your turkey vest from the closet and go through the pockets. After you throw away last year’s half-eaten snacks, lay everything out. Check calls for working condition. Mouth calls often need to be replaced, box calls need to be chalked, and the surfaces of slate calls need to be roughed up. Make sure your gloves and facemask are still there and in good shape. Put loose shells back in the box or correct pockets. Organization prevents opening morning frustration.
Your shotgun deserves special attention. Every season, hunters assume last year’s setup is still dialed in. Too often, those hunters discover problems at the worst time. Clean your gun thoroughly. If you’re using a scope or red dot, make sure the mounts are rock solid and the sight is dialed in. Make sure the shotgun cycles shells properly. Most importantly, head to the
range and pattern your shotgun. Patterning isn’t just about confirming accuracy. The process builds confidence.
While preparation of your gear is paramount, scouting may be the single most valuable task hunters can focus on right now, especially if you’re planning to hunt public land. Turkeys follow predictable patterns before hunting pressure arrives, and early scouting reveals where birds roost, travel and feed. Listen at dawn when possible. Glassing field edges in the evening should clue you into roost areas birds regularly return to. Take morning drives around your hunting area.
Boots on the ground are another way to locate birds, but you run the risk of bumping them out of the area. I would not recommend scouting in the woods you plan to hunt in the days leading up to the season. If you want to get out now and walk your area looking for shed antlers, then keep
your eyes open for turkey tracks, droppings and scratching areas in leaves. These are clear signs that turkeys are using an area regularly.
Knowing where turkeys are before hitting the field on opening day changes everything. Instead of wandering and hoping to strike a bird, you can slip quietly into a known area or set up near a consistent travel zone.
Public-land hunters need to have multiple locations identified ahead of time, since hunting pressure can change turkey behavior quickly once the season opens.
Preparation should also include calling practice. Whether you favor a box call, slate call or mouth call, spending a few minutes every day working on cadence and control makes a difference. I do a lot of this while I’m driving to and from work. Good turkey calling isn’t about volume, and it’s not for show. It’s about realism and restraint. Go on YouTube and listen
to recordings of real turkeys. Imitate that, not some award winner selling you how-to tips. Being familiar with your calls helps you react naturally when a gobbler is listening.
Perhaps the greatest reason turkey season holds such a special place is what it represents. It marks the true arrival of spring. Songbirds return. Trees and plants bloom. Rivers warm and fishing opportunities expand. Campgrounds reopen, and travel plans begin to take shape after a long winter indoors. Another year is upon us, and we have the opportunity to make the most of it. Use these final weeks wisely and enjoy another season of adventure in the turkey woods.
See you down the trail…
For more Driftwood Outdoors, check out the podcast on driftwoodoutdoors.com or anywhere podcasts are streamed.
Trailing or Leading: No litterbugs on MYPath
By Kyle Hannon Project Manager, MYPath Trail System
When I was a kid, I remember watching the Smog Monster crawl out of a polluted harbor to terrorize the city. Only Godzilla could defeat this monster and save the day. Where did the Smog Monster come from? It oozed to life from all the trash and chemicals that were dumped by people and companies into the rivers and ocean.
This movie came out in 1971, when throwing bags of trash out of moving cars was frowned upon, but it was still very common. Today wonderful volunteers on road
clean-ups still find plenty of garbage to collect, but I remember that it was much worse back then.
Maybe people my age learned that carelessly discarding trash could lead to monsters that were nearly as powerful as Godzilla. Or maybe communities realized that litter should result in heavy fines, which deterred litterbugs. Maybe people finally became fed-up with events like the burning of the Cuyahoga River in Ohio. Whatever the motivation, litter became unacceptable. Yet we still see it. The book “Garbology: Our Love Affair With Trash” by Edward Humes outlines the history of trash. It has always been one of the top
challenges of every community. Did you realize New York City used to let pigs roam the streets to eat people’s trash?
We have more sophisticated means of disposal now. But we also have more challenges. Plastic bags used by stores are strong, light and inexpensive, but they are also discarded everywhere. Plastic water bottles are light, convenient and inexpensive, but they are also discarded everywhere. K-cups for single-use coffee machines are inexpensive and convenient, but they are also discarded everywhere. And then, what happens to the plastic that is used to create these strong, light, convenient and inexpensive products? Do they
ever go away?
So that brings us to MYPath. Even though public litter is not as common as in the last century, it’s certainly not rare. Friends of MYPath has hosted trash pickup days along River Road and collected plenty. The White River always seems to have trash along the shore. As MYPath grows in popularity, discarded trash should be a big problem. Yet it is not.
I give credit for a clean MYPath to the users of MYPath. Every Wednesday morning at 10 a.m., we host a weekly walk. (You are all invited.) We usually see one to three pieces of litter. Not one to three piles. And one of us picks it up to throw away at home. Trash pickup is not the
point of this walk, but people pick up trash anyway. In addition to the weekly walk group, I see individuals on the trail all the time. If I ask them about trash, they say, “Yeah, there was a piece of paper, but I just picked it up.” As I have said before, MYPath has the best trail users. When we have volunteer days, we can focus on big jobs like spreading wood chips, clearing fallen branches and removing invasive plants. Trash is not a big issue. Some people have asked why we don’t have any trash cans along the trail or in the parking area. We are following the Indiana State Park policy of carry in/ carry out. I think sometimes trash cans actually
attract trash from people’s homes and cars. Realistically, people who would drop wrappers on the trail wouldn’t bother to walk their trash to the next container.
Will you see trash next time you visit MYPath? Maybe, but don’t be surprised if you don’t. I think people appreciate the community trail as their own. To the MYPath users, thank you for helping keep it clean.
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.
OCCF: Working Together for Owen County New collaborations, education initiatives and record scholarships highlight a busy season
By Janet Rummel OCCF President & CEO
spring, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to share a few updates with the community.
First, please join us in congratulating our colleague Karah and her husband Winston on the birth of their new baby. Karah is currently on maternity leave and will return to the office this summer. During her leave, Kyle Hannon, who many in the community know from his work as MYPath Director, has stepped into a new role as Director of Community Projects and will be assisting with several of Karah’s responsibilities.
One of the Foundation’s newest initiatives is the launch of the Owen County Nonprofit Alliance, created to strengthen the many nonprofit organizations that serve our community. We recently sent a needs-assessment survey to every nonprofit serving Owen County and invited them to participate in an in-person meeting on March 4. During this meeting, participants engaged in an asset-mapping exercise designed to help organizations better understand each other’s missions, identify areas of collaboration and uncover potential gaps or redundancies in services.
Based on the survey responses and meeting
discussions, we have identified several priority areas for future education, training and shared services among local nonprofits. Our next Nonprofit Alliance meeting will take place on April 1 and will focus on financial reporting and budgeting. As an added incentive for collaboration, nonprofits that completed the survey and attended the inaugural meeting received bonus points on their 2026 Community Investment Grant applications.
The Community Foundation is also working with several partners on initiatives that support education and workforce development in Owen County. In collaboration with Uplands Smart Start and SpencerOwen Community Schools (S-OCS), we are exploring the creation of an early childhood
education career pathway for high school students. This concept could include an early care and learning center at the high school to serve the children of S-OCS staff while providing valuable hands-on learning opportunities for students interested in careers in early childhood education.
In addition, the Community Foundation is partnering with the school system and adult education leaders to explore the development of a career and technical education facility that could serve high school students during the day and adult learners in the evening. Early program ideas include training in welding and HVAC, with the potential to expand into additional programs such as CNC machining in the future.
Our staff also remains deeply
engaged in volunteer service throughout the community. Connie continues to volunteer at the Tivoli Theatre, the Freedom Community Center and Spencer Pride. Connie and I are also volunteering with the VITA Free Tax Service at the Owen County Public Library, helping local residents prepare and file their taxes at no cost.
The Foundation’s Community Investment Grants program continues to support local nonprofits doing important work across Owen County. Round One of the 2026 grant cycle closed on Feb. 28, and grant recipients will be announced at the end of March. A second cycle of Community Investment Grants offering awards from $1,001 to $5,000 will open on April 1. Nonprofits interested in applying can find
more information on the Community Foundation’s website or by contacting our office.
Finally, we are excited to share that the Foundation will award a record number of scholarships in 2026. Local students will receive their awards during the OCCF Scholarship Award Celebration on April 26. Supporting students as they pursue higher education and career training remains one of the most meaningful ways the Community Foundation invests in the future of Owen County.
As always, we are grateful for the donors, volunteers and partners who make this work possible. Together, we are building a stronger Owen County for today and for generations to come.
OCPL expands programs, opportunities for community
By Brittany Van Hook OCPL Director
The Owen County Public Library (OCPL) continues to grow and evolve, bringing new opportunities, resources and support services to our community. This season, we are excited to introduce several new and returning programs designed to engage learners of all ages, support families and
connect residents with valuable resources.
One of our newest initiatives is Learn and Earn, a fun and rewarding way to test your knowledge. Visitors can answer a trivia question during their library visit for a chance to win a prize. It is a simple way to spark curiosity, encourage learning and add a little extra excitement to your time at the library.
Another important seasonal service now available is Free Tax Preparation, offered now through April 14. Community members are encouraged to call the library to see if they qualify and to schedule an appointment.
This service helps ensure residents can file accurately and confidently while keeping more money in their pockets. Our Adult Education program is also launching its spring session, with enrollment now open for several free certification courses. Community members can build valuable workforce skills through programs including CompTIA A+, QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel and HVAC-R. Those interested should contact Jamie at jamieh@owenlib.org, or call 812-510-7655 to learn more and enroll. Classes fill quickly, so early registration is
encouraged. For those looking to improve wellness and reduce stress, our Tai Chi class meets every Tuesday and Thursday at 10 a.m. Tai Chi is known for its gentle movements, balance benefits and calming effects, making it an excellent option for beginners and experienced participants alike. Supporting caregivers remains a priority at OCPL. Our Dementia Caregiver Support Group meets every fourth Thursday and offers two convenient sessions, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 5 to 6 p.m. This group provides a compassionate space
for caregivers to share experiences, gather resources and find encouragement from others who understand the journey.
At the Owen County Public Library, our mission is to meet people where they are and provide meaningful opportunities to learn, connect and thrive. We invite everyone in Owen County to stop by, try something new and see what is happening at your library.
For more information about these and other programs, visit the Owen County Public Library at 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer, or follow us on social media.
Spring clean your health: What to keep, what to toss
By Jamie Jo Lowder Health and Human Sciences Educator, Purdue Extension-Owen County
As we open the windows and start clearing out closets this March, it’s also the perfect time to “spring clean” our health. Purdue Extension focuses on small, research-backed steps that make a big difference over time. Just like cleaning a home, improving health doesn’t require a total overhaul — just a thoughtful look at what to keep and what to toss.
Toss: All-or-Nothing
Thinking
Keep: Small, Sustainable Changes
Research consistently shows that sustainable habits are built gradually. Instead of extreme resets, focus on one or two
manageable changes.
For example, adding one additional serving of fruit or vegetables per day can improve overall nutrient intake. Replacing sugary beverages with water a few times per week can significantly reduce added sugar consumption. Small steps, practiced consistently, are more effective than short bursts of drastic change.
Toss: Skipping Meals
Keep: Balanced, Regular Eating
Purdue Extension nutrition programs emphasize the importance of balanced meals throughout the day. Skipping meals can lead to overeating later and reduced energy levels. Aim to include lean protein, whole grains, fruits or vegetables, and low-fat dairy when possible. Planning simple meals ahead of time — even just a few days at a time — supports healthier choices and reduces stress.
March is also National Nutrition Month®, making it a great reminder to “Make Every Bite Count.” Focusing on nutrient-dense foods
helps fuel both body and brain.
Toss: Sedentary Winter Habits Keep: Daily Movement
As the days get longer, look for opportunities to move more. Research supports at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week for adults, along with muscle-strengthening activities twice weekly. That may sound like a lot, but it breaks down to about 30 minutes, five days a week.
Movement does not have to mean a gym membership. Walking, gardening, stretching or playing outside with children or grandchildren all count. Even short 10-minute movement breaks throughout the day contribute to overall health benefits, including improved mood, better sleep and reduced risk of chronic disease.
Toss: Poor Sleep Routines
Keep: Consistent Sleep Habits
With Daylight Saving Time in March, sleep schedules can easily
get off track. Research shows adults generally need seven to nine hours of sleep per night for optimal health. Maintaining a consistent bedtime, limiting screen use before bed and creating a relaxing nighttime routine can improve sleep quality. Quality sleep supports immune function, heart health, mental clarity and stress management — all essential parts of overall wellness.
Toss: Chronic Stress Without Support
Keep: Healthy Coping Strategies
Stress is a normal part of life, but chronic stress can negatively impact both physical and mental health. Researchbased strategies such as deep breathing, physical activity, time outdoors, social connection and structured routines can help manage stress effectively.
Spring is also a great time to reconnect socially. Sharing meals, engaging in community activities and maintaining supportive relationships are strongly linked to
improved well-being.
Spring cleaning your health does not require perfection. It simply means taking inventory and asking: What habits are serving me well? What habits need a refresh? Start small. Choose one area to focus on this month. Celebrate progress, not perfection. Research shows that positive reinforcement and realistic goal setting increase long-term success.
If you’re interested in learning more about nutrition, physical activity, stress management, food safety, financial wellness or strengthening family connections, I would love to connect with you. Purdue Extension offers research-based programs and lessons designed to meet the needs of our community.
Feel free to reach out to me at 812-829-5020 or lowder0@purdue.edu to learn about upcoming programs or to request a presentation for your group. Let’s make this the season we freshen up more than just our closets — let’s refresh our health, one small step at a time.
Owen County 4-H Project Fair is March 30
By Cassie Linville 4-H Youth Development Educator
anticipated 2026 4-H Project Fair, happening March 30 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Owen County Fairgrounds’ 4-H Exhibit Hall. This lively, interactive event is designed to welcome everyone—from long-time 4-H families looking to explore new projects to those who are brand new and curious about what 4-H is all about.
With more than 20 hands-on projects on display, the Project Fair offers a fun and inspiring evening where kids can explore their interests, families can connect with volunteers and everyone can experience the excitement that makes 4-H such a special part of the community.
From animals to arts, science to leadership and everything in between, there is truly something for every young person to discover.
Friendly volunteers, club leaders and experienced 4-H members will be stationed throughout the Exhibit Hall, ready to share stories, answer questions and help families navigate all the opportunities available. Whether a child wants to try something totally new or dive deeper into
a favorite project, this event makes it easy—and enjoyable—to explore.
Our goal is simple: make sure every child and family feels welcome, supported and excited for the year ahead.
We want families— both returning and brand new—to walk in and immediately feel the energy and possibility that 4-H offers. There’s no better time to see what makes 4-H so fun, so hands-on and so empowering for kids.
This year’s Project Fair also shines a spotlight on the 2026 Project of the Year: Electric! Families can visit a special interactive table packed with demonstrations, resources and guidance for getting involved. Youth can explore circuits, energy and the science behind everyday electronics in a project
that sparks creativity and curiosity.
The event is not just an opportunity to explore—it’s also a great time to enroll and save. Families who register on-site will receive $5 off the enrollment fee for grades 3–12. Even better, Mini 4-H enrollment for grades K–2 is completely free during the event. Volunteers will be ready to walk families stepby-step through the enrollment process, making it quick, simple and stress-free.
Visitors can look forward to:
Meeting enthusiastic club leaders and volunteers eager to help kids learn and grow; Hearing directly from 4-H members and project experts who love sharing what they do; Receiving on-site enrollment assistance in
a friendly, family-focused environment; Exploring brandnew project areas and discovering unexpected interests; and Checking out the energizing 2026 “Electric” Project of the Year demonstration table. Whether you’re a seasoned 4-H family or just beginning to wonder if 4-H might be right for your child, the Project Fair is the perfect place to start. Warm smiles, fun conversations and handson discovery make this event one of the most welcoming moments of the 4-H year. For more information about the Project Fair, contact Purdue Extension-Owen County at owences@purdue.edu or 812-829-5020.
Broadcasting students step into audio and video production studios, while Business and Marketing students dive into digital design and entrepreneurship. These experiences extend beyond textbooks. Through partnerships with the Hoosier Hills Career Center, OVHS students can access specialized training in areas such as welding, fire and safety, automotive technology, culinary arts, mechanical design and more. Many pathways culminate in capstone experiences, internships or work-based learning placements that allow students to apply their skills in authentic settings.
Research consistently shows that students who engage in hands-on, careerconnected learning are more motivated, better prepared
SESSION | FROM PAGE 16
legislative session,” he said.
He noted that they begin working on legislation for the upcoming year in May in order to be able to file it in late December or early January.
He highlighted Senate Bill 1, which focused on Medicaid and TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families).
“As I’ve said from this table before, that’s something that we really need to make sure we’re operating with integrity and fidelity because those are programs that people in our community really, really need. They have the tendency, however, to grow out of control, and we can’t allow that to happen,” he said, citing the need to balance all of the resource needs and being good stewards of the state’s resources.
He specifically noted that these are
and more confident about their futures. Owen Valley understands that education must connect classroom learning to real-world application, and our Patriot Pathways do exactly that.
Beginning with the Class of 2027, Indiana’s graduation requirements emphasize both academic readiness and post-secondary preparation. Students must complete required coursework in English, math (including Algebra II or its equivalent), science and social studies, while also demonstrating Post-Secondary-Ready Competencies such as employability skills, projectbased learning experiences, credentials or service-based learning.
Additionally, students must meet one of three Graduation Pathways Seals: Enrollment Seal (for students planning to attend a
not cuts but rather ensuring that those who qualify for the assistance are the ones receiving it.
He also highlighted a potential constitutional amendment that would allow judges to hold individuals without bail pending trial if there is no other way to ensure the public’s safety. Currently, individuals accused of a crime can only be held without bail if they are charged with murder or treason.
This potential amendment will appear on November’s General Election ballot as a state referendum.
“Essentially what it will say is that if the evidence is strong and there is clear and convincing evidence that there’s no type of condition that would allow the person out of jail pending trial that would keep the public safe, then you can hold them without bail,” he explained. “There’s
two- or four-year college), Employment Seal (for students entering the workforce), or Enlistment Seal (for students entering the military).
The Patriot Pathways directly support these requirements. By completing a coherent sequence of courses within a pathway, students gain technical skills, industry-recognized credentials and realworld experience. Many pathways offer dual credit opportunities, certifications or work-based learning hours that align with Indiana’s Post-Secondary-Ready Competencies. Whether a student is college-bound, career-focused or planning to serve in the military, OVHS ensures they graduate with both knowledge and a plan.
Owen Valley High School takes pride in offering such
a lot of due process there. It would require a hearing for a judge to look at the evidence and decide whether or not that’s the case.”
Bassler was the next to provide opening remarks.
“I was thinking on my drive up that although this is the last one of these that I will attend in my official capacity, I think maybe next year I’ll come to them and just sit out with you and complain to these guys. I’m looking forward to that,” he said.
The room laughed at the joke.
“But in all seriousness, it has been a pleasure to represent you,” Bassler said.
He shared that he was proud of his time serving as a state senator.
He said this year, they worked on legislation related to social media engagement among individuals under the age of 16.
a wide range of interests for students to explore. The diversity of pathways reflects the understanding that success looks different for every student. Some Patriots will head straight into the workforce with industry certifications. Others will step confidently onto college campuses. Still others will answer the call to military service.
No matter the destination, the journey begins with opportunity and OVHS is committed to providing it.
Families who would like to learn more about Patriot Pathways and the Next Level Programs of Study are encouraged to contact the OVHS office at 812-829-2266.
At Owen Valley High School, the future isn’t just imagined. It’s built, designed, cultivated, performed and achieved every single day.
He noted that mental health issues, attempted suicides and suicidal ideation have significantly increased among young people in the last decade.
“A lot of that can be directly tied back to social media,” Bassler said.
He said the algorithms are intended to be addictive and that while the minutia is still being worked out, the legislation would require parental consent.
“I think that’s going to be an extremely impactful bill over time. I think it will help when it comes to teen suicide and suicide attempts, and so I’m looking forward to seeing the positive impact that bill can have in the coming years,” Bassler said.
Heaton thanked everyone for being there and said he just finished his 16th year as state representative.
“I was here before these two fine gentlemen were here, and Senator Bray, I served with his father [those] first couple years,” he said, “but I still feel very young.”
Heaton focused on issues with a DLGF or Department of Local Government Finance bill on townships.
He also stressed the importance of working together across both chambers and party lines. Heaton shared that 90 percent of the bills passed in the first half of the legislative session were bipartisan.
“I think a lot of people couldn’t understand that because they just think we’re always fighting, the Democrats and Republicans, and that’s not really the case up there [at the Indiana Statehouse],” Heaton said.
The trio took questions and comments from constituents on a myriad of topics.
Spring race at MCSP on April 18
Press Release
Does a run or walk through flowering dogwood trees and spring wildflowers sound invigorating? Lace up your shoes and get ready for the Friends of McCormick’s Creek 5K Run/ Walk on Saturday, April 18 at McCormick’s Creek State Park.
The paved race route begins at the Nature Center and makes a loop through some of the most scenic areas of the park. Families, friends, co-workers and individuals enjoy fellowship and encouragement as they strive for their best personal times. Owen
Valley cheerleaders are also on hand to keep you motivated!
Packet pick up and on-site registration begin at 7 a.m. at the Nature Center and the starting pistol fires at 8:30 a.m. There is an optional post-race pancake breakfast for only $5, but please register early so adequate supplies can be purchased. An awards ceremony will follow the race with recognition of age group and overall winners in the Run and Walk divisions.
Early entries will receive a discount. Register online at: https://runsignup. com/Race/IN/Spencer/
FriendsMcCormicksCreek5k.
Those registering before April 3 can receive a race shirt. Late registrants may receive shirts while supplies last. Proceeds from the race fund park improvements and educational programs.
The Friends of McCormick’s Creek would like to thank the following race sponsors: Platinum Sponsors: Hoosier Energy and Sweet Owen Convention & Visitors Bureau Gold Sponsors: Spencer Lions Club, Owen County State Bank and Boston Scientific Silver Sponsors: Green
Dental and Insurance Services, Inc.
Bronze Sponsors: Home Team Properties, Crane Credit Union, Commercial Service, RE/ MAX Select Associates, Byers Home Furnishings, Butterfly Hill Flower Farm, Friends of MYPath, Endeavor Communications, Farm Bureau Insurance, Ridgeline Veterinary Services and Racetrackers
Additional Sponsors: Canyon Inn and Nite Owl Promotions Finish line refreshments provided by McDonald’s of Spencer and Babbs Supermarket.
DNR hiring for Indiana Conservation Officer positions
DNR Press Release
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Division of Law Enforcement is looking for highly motivated, outdoorcentered individuals to fill Indiana Conservation Officer (ICO) positions across the state. Anyone interested
should first read “Become a Conservation Officer” at on.IN.gov/ico-hiring and complete the prescreening test under the “Apply” link. Successful completion of the pre-screening test will automatically enter you into the hiring process. You will then be notified of the next process phase as it becomes available. To be qualified to pass
the pre-screening test, you must be a United States citizen and be 21-years-old by Oct. 30. You also must be able to pass the new Physical Agility Test, which is the new fitness standard for all Law Enforcement in the state starting Aug. 1. The website listed above also contains a video demonstrating the Physical Agility Test,
course diagram and testing protocols.
Conservation officers comprise Indiana’s oldest state law enforcement agency. ICOs are fully recognized Indiana police officers who enforce and uphold all DNR rules and regulations as well as all other Indiana state laws. ICOs spend most of their time on the job enforcing fishing and hunting
regulations, conducting marine boat patrol on Indiana’s waterways and patrolling DNR properties to keep them safe and family friendly. In addition to traditional law enforcement work, ICOs also engage in specialty areas, including scuba, K-9, search and rescue, swift water rescue and many more.
Linton dentist sets state fishing record with 17 FOTYs
DNR Press Release
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Fish of the Year program (FOTY), recognizes anglers who have caught the longest fish of each species DNR tracks in that year.
For 2025, Steven Kellett, a Linton (Greene County) dentist, set a new FOTY record with 17 FOTY winning catches, eclipsing the mark of 15 FOTY winning catches set by Liu He of West Lafayette in 2022. The Kellett name also appears five more
times on the 2025 FOTY list, as Landon, Steven’s 9-year-old son, caught five winning fish.
The elder Kellett said fishing with his son makes him think back to his childhood and helps him shape his son’s future.
Steven’s FOTY catches for species that are most commonly pursued by anglers included a 25.5 inch channel catfish he caught at Goose Pond Fish & Wildlife Area, a 22.25 inch saugeye from the Whitewater River in Franklin, and a 21.5 inch brown trout from a private pond in Greene County.
The largest of Landon’s catches were a 28 inch black buffalo from the Wabash River in Sullivan County and an 18.5 inch shorthead redhorse from the Tippecanoe River in White County.
The elder Kellett said the FOTY program serves as extra motivation to fish for both he and his son.
To learn more about DNR’s FOTY and Record Fish programs, see on.IN.gov/recordfish. To buy a fishing license and start your next fishing trip, go to GoOutdoorsIN.com or visit
Cloverdale Middle School Sports Calendar
April 6
4:30 p.m. – Co-ed track & field vs Brown County and St. Charles at Brown County.
April 13
5 p.m. – Co-ed track & field vs South Putnam, Lighthouse Christian Academy and Indy West Christian School at Cloverdale.
April 20 5 p.m. – Co-ed track & field vs Eminence, North Putnam and Southmont at Cloverdale.
April 27
5 p.m. – Co-ed track & field vs Clay City, Linton-Stockton and North CentralFarmersburg at North Central-Farmersburg.
April 30
May 7
one of more than 500 retailers statewide listed at on.IN.gov/ HuntFishLicenseRetailers. enforcing fishing and hunting regulations, conducting marine boat patrol on Indiana’s waterways and patrolling DNR properties to keep them safe and family friendly.
In addition to traditional law enforcement work, ICOs also engage in specialty areas, including scuba, K-9, search and rescue, swift water rescue and many more.
5 p.m. – Co-ed track & field vs Owen Valley at Cloverdale.
May 11
5:30 p.m. – Co-ed track & field vs North Clay and South Putnam at Cloverdale.
5:30 p.m. – Coed track & field at Putnam County Meet at Greencastle.
May 16
8:30 a.m. – Co-ed track & field at WIC Meet at Owen Valley.
Ramblings: A day at Goose Pond
By Annie Bright Guest Columnist
My sisters and I traveled down to Greene County today for Marsh Madness. The Friends of Goose Pond have partnered with the Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area for the past 17 years to organize this event. “Something for Everyone” is their motto. The two-day event signals the arrival of thousands of waterfowl in the area. Visitors can pick from a large list of things to do. Visitors can enjoy a bus tour, self-guided tours, activities for children, presentations
by bird experts, meeting local artists and seeing their work, meeting other folk who enjoy the wonders of the natural world. The event is fun and educational. Today, I picked up information for a couple of future columns, including one on the invasive pest, the spotted lanternfly. Today was a cold and windy day. We began our visit in Linton at the headquarters in the park. Several artists displayed their creations. I liked the gourds a talented woman turned into little birds. We picked up information about the Dobbs Park Nature Center in Terre Haute, whooping cranes, sandhill cranes and invasive plants. One of the highlights was our stop at the Herpetological Society’s booth. They had a variety of snakes
on display. My favorite was a very friendly, light orange and tan colored south-eastern corn snake. When she wrapped around my arm and peach colored sweater, her color seemed to intensify. My sister called her Tangerine and that became her name! We headed out of town on Highway 59 under a gray sky. The ponds along the highway are dotted with dozens of muskrat homes. The small domes of sticks and mud stick out of the water surface. The wind splashes the water up to kiss the sides of the muskrat homes. I wondered if they could hear that gentle noise. We stopped at the Visitor’s Center perched on a hill overlooking the marsh and several ponds. There were booths there with information and
activities for children. But we came to see birds, so off we went to explore the 8,000 acres that make up the Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area. I remember when many of the acres were corn fields. The crops often flooded as the land tried to return to its original marshy existence. There are still several farms in the area. Most of them are raising cattle and corn, it seems. We stopped a couple of times to talk to the cows. They don’t get many visitors. My sister worked on a dairy farm for years. She loves cows and speaks their language. Today we discovered a farmer with a great sense of humor. He had installed a huge flock of pink plastic flamingos in the corn field across the road from his farmstead.
Further down the road we spotted a flock of sandhill cranes eating corn the picker missed last fall. I was hoping they would entertain us with their joyful mating dance, but they were too busy gobbling up corn. Their gray humpback silhouettes almost faded away in the gray, misty landscape. As we watched a huge flock of geese soared into view. We watched as they gracefully descended, as one big organism a halfmile away. Later we saw hundreds of snow geese floating on the silvery surface of the pond.
If you need a day away from the stress of life and want to soak up some nature, I suggest a visit to Goose Pond.
‘til next time, Annie
It’s Just a Country State of Mind: The old Variety Store
By Susan Anderson Guest Columnist
came across a photo of an old store that brought back a world of memories. As a child, my parents used to take me shopping at a little store in the small town of Gosport. Some of you might remember the name of it: Moore’s Variety Store. The store was owned by Gosport residents, Bob and Irene Moore. It was located on Main Street and had an attractive storefront that just seemed to draw people in.
My first
recollection of the place probably goes back to around the age of five. The store was a feast for the eyes for a kid like me. The store had candy, soda, chips and a big collection of toys. The toys ranged from pop guns to yo-yos, coloring books, dolls, airplanes, model car kits and the list went on and on. And then there was the candy. Some of the candy was contained in large glass cases so that the customer could see the contents from every vantage point. There were gumballs, chocolate covered peanuts, peppermint sticks and jawbreakers. There were jars of licorice and displays filled with candy bars.
Of course, Moore’s supplied the town with other
needed items as well, including sewing notions, household items, toasters, irons, dishes, tools, gifts and greeting cards, paper, and school supplies.
I guess the one thing that stood out to me the most as a child was the owner himself. Mr. Moore always had a smile on his face when greeting customers, and Irene always seemed to know exactly where an item could be found if asked. It was a place where neighbors met and where new friends were made.
When I was older, and I had my first child, I began to take her to the little variety store. My daughter and I made regular weekly visits to the store, even though she could not have been more than a few months
old at the time. As the day of her first birthday approached, I had decided that I wanted to give her a special gift, a keepsake.
One day we made a special trip to the store where we were greeted as usual with a big smile and a little conversation. And then I explained how I was looking for something special for a little girl who was turning one year old. Bob smiled really big and said, “I have just the thing for you.”
Then he pulled out the cutest ceramic piggy bank I had ever seen. It even had a name glazed into the underside, “Corky Pig.” It was so named because it had a hole in the end of its nose with a cork that fit snuggly into it. There was a slot on the top to put the money in and to get it out,
you would remove the cork. When I saw it, I knew I had my gift. Bob wrapped it up carefully, and Corky became a new resident of my home.
Many years went by and the piggy bank not only held my first child’s pennies, but continued to hold countless pennies, dimes and nickels over the years for all four of my children. It brought a lot of joy to our family, long after the variety store had closed. Eventually, my children grew up and started their own lives. The little bank made its way to a box in my closet.
One day, I was looking through some things and came across the old piggy bank. Its cork was missing but other than that, time had been very kind to the little pig. I remembered that my
oldest daughter had a birthday coming up. I thought it was time to return the pig to its original owner. I cannot express in words the emotions that I felt when I gave my daughter that old piggy bank. For a little while, we were both transported back in time to a little variety store in Gosport, Indiana. The old store closed in the late 1970s after being in business for 57 years. That piggy bank held more than just pennies all those years. It was a bank full of memories. I often wondered if Bob knew what I was getting when he smiled and handed me that little piggy bank. I’d like to think that he did.
Happy spring!
— Susan
I am going to restore the crime watch programs Committed to providing support for those with: mental health issues addiction issues guaranteed to make sure all sex offenders are in compliance strengthen the k-9 program establishing a drug task force re-establish helping children in need at christmas re-establish the chili dinner for trick or treating being proactive with the entire community and county make sure all county roads are traveled by sheriff’s office i will be the sheriff that answers your calls, comes to see you at your home, and let the citizens inform me of their needs and concerns this is not about me, this is a sheriff/community commitment Philippians 4:13 - I can do all things through christ who strengthens me. please vote
