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VOL. 3, ISSUE NO. 10
FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
Artist Steve Adams brings color and history to Spencer’s canvas By Travis Curry Senior Correspondent Whether walking through the doors of Spencer Elementary School (SES) or taking a leisurely stroll past the shopfronts of downtown Spencer, residents across Owen County have undoubtedly encountered the vibrant, detailed brushwork
of artist Steve Adams. A longtime Spencer resident who recently completed his latest mural at SES, Adams has spent countless hours turning blank brick, plaster, and glass into cherished public landmarks. His journey spans commercial success as a long-time book illustrator, a deep passion for historical preservation, and a
familiar presence along local backroads on his daily bicycle rides. Reflecting on how he originally landed in Spencer, Adams recalled a period of transition after returning to the States from living abroad in Belize. “I grew up on the northwest side of Indianapolis, near Eagle Creek
Park,” Adams said. “I went to college in Bloomington and wanted to live down this way. When we came back from Belize, I didn’t have a job, and we just needed a place that I could buy for cash. We found this house, liked it enough, and could afford it. So, we ended up here.”
ARTIST | PAGE 6
More than 20 years after completing his large-scale historical mural in the Spencer Elementary School cafeteria, artist Steve Adams recently revisited the vibrant wall painting that continues to welcome students every school day. SUBMITTED PHOTO | AARON LAGRANGE
NEWS IN BRIEF ‘The Odd Couple’ comes to Spencer
occupying the parking lot of the Unraveled Quilt Store on Aug. 8th. Underneath it, they would find 32 women quilting for charity. The event under that tent: The 7th Annual
Can two freshly single men share an apartment without driving each other to complete madness? Local theatergoers are about to find out as the Owen County Theatre & Arts Alliance presents Neil Simon’s legendary comedy, “The Odd Couple.” The curtain rises on a hilarious domestic showdown when neurotic, clean-freak Felix Ungar gets dumped by his wife and lands on the doorstep of his best friend, Oscar Madison. Oscar is a notoriously messy sportswriter who thrives in chaos, making him the exact opposite of the obsessively organized Felix. What starts as a generous rescue mission rapidly dissolves into an outrageous battle of lifestyles, fueled by routine poker games, quirky neighbors, and constant nagging. This timeless favorite runs for one weekend
QUILTING | PAGE 8
BRIEF | PAGE 5
All participants in the 2026 Quilt-a-thon pose for a group photo. TYLER DEFORD | THE OWEN NEWS
Stephanie Brinson (right) works on a quilt with her daughter Lilly Brinson. TYLER DEFORD | THE OWEN NEWS
By 10:30 that night, only a few people are still left quilting comapared to the 32 people that started at 10:00am that morning. TYLER DEFORD | THE OWEN NEWS
By Tyler DeFord Interim Editor Drivers on N. Fletcher or E. Hillside avenues may have noticed a big white tent
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THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
Memorial bench dedicated in downtown Spencer Former Spencer Town Council member and Spencer resident Mike Spinks was honored by Spencer Main Street with a new memorial bench between the Historic TIvoli Theatre and Civilian Brewing Corps. A small crowd of Spencer Main Street representatives, family, and friends helped dedicate the bench in Spinks’ memory.
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Daughters Sherry Tucker (left) and Kathy Spinks try out the new bench dedicated to their father Mike Spinks. TYLER DEFORD | THE OWEN NEWS
Government Meeting Calendar AUGUST 24
SPENCER PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD, in the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St., Spencer.
AUGUST 25
SPENCER PLAN COMMISSION & BZA, 6 p.m. in the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St., Spencer.
AUGUST 26
SPENCER ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION, 6 p.m. in the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St., Spencer.
AUGUST 27
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.
SEPTEMBER 3
OWEN COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS, 6 p.m., Commissioners’ Room, Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.
SEPTEMBER 7
SPENCER TOWN COUNCIL, 6 p.m. in the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St., Spencer.
SEPTEMBER 8
GOSPORT TOWN COUNCIL, 7 p.m. in the Gosport Community Building, 301 N. Ninth St., Gosport.
SEPTEMBER 10
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. 2027 public budget hearing. OWEN COUNTY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS, 7 p.m., Commissioners’ Room, Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.
SEPTEMBER 14
OWEN COUNTY COUNCIL, 6 p.m., Commissioners’ Room, Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer. OWEN VALLEY FIRE TERRITORY BOARD, 6 p.m. at the Owen Valley Volunteer Fire Department, 401 Walnut St., Spencer. CLOVERDALE COMMUNITY SCHOOLS BOARD OF TRUSTEES, 7 p.m. in the
Corrections Corner In the August 7 column, “Spoiler-free review: ‘SpiderMan: Brand New Day’,” it was stated that the ticket price of movies at the Tivoli is $5; however, adult tickets are currently $5 for 2 p.m. shows and $7 for 7 p.m. shows.
Arthur L. Johnson Administration Building, 310 E. Logan St., Cloverdale.
SEPTEMBER 15
OWEN COUNTY ADVISORY PLAN COMMISSION, 6:30 p.m., Commissioners’ Room, Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.
SEPTEMBER 17
OWEN COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS, 6 p.m., Commissioners’ Room, Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.
SEPTEMBER 21
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.
SEPTEMBER 22
SPENCER PLAN COMMISSION & BZA, 6 p.m. in the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St., Spencer. GOSPORT TOWN COUNCIL, 7 p.m. in the Gosport Community Building, 301 N. Ninth St., Gosport.
SEPTEMBER 24
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.
SEPTEMBER 28
SPENCER PARKS AND RECREATION BOARD, 6 p.m. in the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St., Spencer.
OCTOBER 1
OWEN COUNTY BOARD OF
COMMISSIONERS, 6 p.m., Commissioners’ Room, Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.
OCTOBER 5
SPENCER TOWN COUNCIL, 6 p.m. in the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St., Spencer.
OCTOBER 8
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.
OCTOBER 12
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.
OCTOBER 13
OWEN COUNTY COUNCIL, 6 p.m., Commissioners’ Room, Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer. GOSPORT TOWN COUNCIL, 7 p.m. in the Gosport Community Building, 301 N. Ninth St., Gosport.
OCTOBER 15
OWEN COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS, 6 p.m., Commissioners’ Room, Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.
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THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
Community Events Calendar EDITOR’S NOTE: The Community Calendar is a free resource for sharing events that benefit the local community, including free events open to the public and ticketed events that directly benefit a non-profit organization or serve a community purpose. Commercial or for-profit events may not be included in the Community Calendar. To submit an event for consideration, contact: info@theowennews.org.
AUGUST 22 OWEN COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET, 8:30 a.m. to noon at 459 W. Morgan St., Spencer. Live music will be provided by Nicholas Graham Hall. LIVE MUSIC BY HAPPY ACCIDENT DUO, 5:30 p.m. at Owen Valley Winery, Vineyard & Bistro, 491 Timber Ridge Rd., Spencer. Free.
AUGUST 24 SPENCER MAIN STREET, INC. board meeting, 6:30 p.m., Viquesney Room, Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Open to the public.
AUGUST 25 FREE SENIOR ADULT LUNCH, 12:30 p.m. at the Gosport United Methodist Church, 119 N. Seventh St., Gosport. If you are a shut-in and need delivery, call 765-860-4719. TEEN RETRO GAME NIGHT, 4 p.m. at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. OWEN COUNTY SWCD BOARD OF SUPERVISORS meeting, 4:30 p.m. at the SWCD office, 788 Pottersville Rd., Spencer. Open to the public.
AUGUST 26 IRIS YOUTH GROUP meeting, 5 p.m. at the Spencer Pride commUnity center, 17 E. Franklin St., Spencer. A group for LGBTQ+ teens and allies (10-19) to connect, support each other and have fun. 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. Call 812829-3392 to reserve your spot.
AUGUST 27 GOSPORT FARMERS’ MARKET, 3 to 6 p.m. in
the parking lot of the Lighthouse Fellowship Church, 5392 S.R. 67, Gosport.
AUGUST 28 through AUGUST 30 THE OWEN COUNTY THEATRE & ARTS ALLIANCE presents Neil Simon’s classic comedy “The Odd Couple” at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Showtimes are Friday, Aug. 28th through Sunday, Aug. 30th. Showtimes are Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Admission is $12 for adults and $5 for youth.
AUGUST 28 CRAFT NIGHT, 5 to 7 p.m. at the Spencer Pride commUnity center, 17 E. Franklin St., Spencer. A group for people who quilt, scrapbook, paint, decoupage, etc. Bring your own supplies to work on a project while others do the same. For more information, contact Terry@SpencerPride.org. LIVE MUSIC WITH BUBBA WIGGLES, 8 p.m. at the Spencer American Legion Post #285, 154 S. Main St., Spencer.
AUGUST 29 OWEN COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET, 8:30 a.m. to noon at 459 W. Morgan St., Spencer. Live music will be provided by Owen County S.O.U.N.D.S. JOIN THE OWEN COUNTY SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT AND BBP WATER CORP for Water Day, 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Owen County Farmers’ Market, 459 W. Morgan St. in Spencer. The community event features free hot dogs and brats, market booths, educational activities, rescue boats, a duck race, and more. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about water conservation and how local efforts can make a difference. SALE ON THE SQUARE, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Franklin Street on the courthouse square in downtown Spencer. A “junk in the trunk” event every last Saturday of the month, May to October. Reserve
a spot for $20; we refund $10 when you set up. Sign up and sell your yard sale stuff. And bring your shopping friends, because it’s always free to shop! OUR OWN PERSONAL STORY WITH CATHY WYATT, 1 p.m. in the Community Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. Open to all ages. LIVE MUSIC BY THE NATURAL CAUSES, 5:30 p.m. at Owen Valley Winery, Vineyard & Bistro, 491 Timber Ridge Rd., Spencer. Free.
SEPTEMBER 1 SPENCER LIONS CLUB meeting, 6:30 p.m. in the Lester F. Litten Community Building, 59 N. Main St., Spencer.
SEPTEMBER 3 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.
SEPTEMBER 5 OWEN COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET, 8:30 a.m. to noon at 459 W. Morgan St., Spencer. Live music will be provided by Don George Pietz. LIVE MUSIC BY BLUEEYED REVERIE, 5:30 p.m. at Owen Valley Winery, Vineyard & Bistro, 491 Timber Ridge Rd., Spencer. Free.
SEPTEMBER 8 BRAYSVILLE HOMEMAKERS meeting, 5:30 p.m. in the upstairs meeting room at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Elevator access is available. For more information, call 812-8295020.
SEPTEMBER 9 HARRISON HOMEMAKERS meeting, noon at the Purdue Extension-Owen County office, 180 S. Washington St., Spencer. IRIS YOUTH GROUP meeting, 5 p.m. at the Spencer Pride commUnity center, 17 E. Franklin St., Spencer. A group for LGBTQ+ teens and allies
(10-19) to connect, support each other and have fun. COMMUNITY YOGA, 6:15 to 7:15 p.m. at the Spencer Pride commUnity center, 17 E. Franklin St., Spencer. Designed for all people of all abilities. No experience required.
SEPTEMBER 10 FREE SHOWINGS OF JERRY & MARGO GO LARGE (2022), 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Sponsored by Janet Long. 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. SPENCER MASONIC LODGE #95 stated meeting, 7:30 p.m. at the Lodge, 361 N. Harrison St., Spencer.
SEPTEMBER 11 to SEPTEMBER 13 COAL CITY OLD GROUCH FESTIVAL, downtown Coal City. Live music and demonstration events, food vendors, games, crafts, a farmers’ market, and much more.
SEPTEMBER 11 CRAFT NIGHT, 5 to 7 p.m. at the Spencer Pride commUnity center, 17 E. Franklin St., Spencer. A group for people who quilt, scrapbook, paint, decoupage, etc. Bring your own supplies to work on a project while others do the same. For more information, contact Terry@SpencerPride.org.
SEPTEMBER 12 OWEN COUNTY FARMERS’ MARKET, 8:30 a.m. to noon at 459 W. Morgan St., Spencer. Live music will be provided by Rick LeDune. MYPATH 5K RUN/WALK, beginning at 8:30 a.m. at the Owen County Fairgrounds in Spencer. Registration is $25 per person. Signup online at bit.ly/MYPath5K. Proceeds will help support the extension and maintenance of the MYPath Trail. SECOND ANNUAL OWEN VALLEY PATRIOT CHOIRS HARMONY MARKET, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the front
parking lot of Owen Valley High School. Support the OVHS Patriot Choir Boosters by shopping local vendors, crafts, antiques, and boutique finds. Vendor spaces are available for $25 ($10 for an additional spot) with a sign-up deadline of Wednesday, Sept. 10. Admission is open to the public. For questions or to reserve a vendor spot, contact ovps.patriotchoir@ gmail.com. ANNUAL ARTS, BLUES & BBQ FESTIVAL AT MCCORMICK’S CREEK STATE PARK, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Presented by The Friends of McCormick’s Creek State Park and The Whirlwind Agency, this year’s community celebration features live music, regional art, delicious food, and local refreshments set against the scenic backdrop of Indiana’s oldest state park. Admission to the festival is included with standard park gate entry, which is $7 per vehicle for Indiana residents and $9 per vehicle for out-of-state visitors. For full details, visit www. friendsmccormickscreek. org or www. thewhirlwindagency.com. OWEN COUNTY CLASSIC CRUISERS DRIVE-IN CAR SHOW starting at 1 p.m. at Cinema 67 Drive-In, 2037 S.R. 67, Spencer. The event features door prizes, trophies, and a double feature of classic car movies on the big screen. In addition, the first 100 cars will receive a complimentary event T-shirt. All classic car enthusiasts and community members are invited to attend for an afternoon and evening of automotive displays and family entertainment. ANNUAL PATRICKSBURG COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT FISH FRY beginning at 4 p.m. at the VFD, 1480 Chestnut St., Patricksburg. All proceeds benefit the VFD. LIVE MUSIC BY AARON GRUBB, 5:30 p.m. at Owen Valley Winery, Vineyard & Bistro, 491 Timber Ridge Rd., Spencer. Free.
EVENTS | PAGE 4
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THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
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. 8-5 Jayson Tatlock, 47, Seymour, preliminary charge of child seduction. Arrested by Owen County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) Deputy John Lowder II. Shawn Sondergard, 45, Mitchell, preliminary charge of unlawful possession of a syringe.
OCSD Major William Snodgrass was the arresting officer. 8-6 Toby Chandler, 30, Spencer, preliminary charges of invasion of privacy (three counts) and intimidation. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Cory Poland. Nathaniel Jones, 45, Martinsville, preliminary charge of invasion of privacy. OCSD Deputy John Lowder II was the arresting officer. Austin Holmes, 29, Linton, preliminary charges of resisting law enforcement and probation violation. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Cory Poland. 8-7 Matthew Miller, 23,
Spencer, preliminary charge of driving without a license. OCSD Sergeant Brandon Gasparovic was the arresting officer. Travis Bland, 48, Bloomington, preliminary charges of possession of methamphetamine and violation of home detention. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Jacob Williamson. Johnathan Goleman, 30, Bloomfield, preliminary charge of commitment order. OCSD Major William Snodgrass was the arresting officer. 8-8 Brian Merriman, 31, Freedom, preliminary charges of disregarding
a stop sign, criminal vandalism, domestic battery, resisting law enforcement, auto theft, criminal confinement, and exceeding urban speed limit (30 mph). Arrested by OCSD Deputy Jacob Williamson. Robert Orman, 57, Spencer, preliminary charge of driving while suspended with a prior charge. Spencer Police Department (SPD) officer Bryce Brock was the arresting officer. 8-9 Chrishaun Matthews, 18, Ellettsville, preliminary charge of theft. Arrested by SPD officer Ryan Combs. 8-11 Aaron Deaton, 34,
Spencer, preliminary
Freedom Community Center, 5558 FreedomArney Rd., Freedom.
the Owen County Family YMCA, 1111 W. S.R. 46, Spencer.
TRIVIA NIGHT WITH RANCE FAWBUSH, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Owen Valley Winery,
Vineyard & Bistro, 491 Timber Ridge Rd., Spencer. Gather your team and compete for great prizes. The size of your team is entirely up to you. Three rounds of trivia each on a different topic. The winning team of each round wins a prize, while the team with the highest score of all three rounds wins the grand prize.
SPENCER PRIDE ANNUAL MEETING, 4 to 6 p.m. at the commUnity center, 31 E. Franklin St., Spencer.
SPENCER LIONS CLUB meeting, 6:30 p.m. in the Lester F. Litten Community Building, 59 N. Main St., Spencer.
COMMUNITY DINNER, 5 to 7 p.m. at 5530 S.R. 42, Poland. Loaded potato bar. SPENCER PRIDE BOARD OF DIRECTORS meeting, 6:30 p.m. at the Spencer Pride commUnity center, 17 E. Franklin St., Spencer.
SEPTEMBER 14
SEPTEMBER 16
SEPTEMBER 17
JOLLY HOMEMAKERS meeting, 1 p.m. at the
CATARACT LAKE COMMUNITY CENTER FREE
SPENCER EXCHANGE CLUB meeting, noon at
EVENTS | FROM PAGE 3 SEPTEMBER 13
SEPTEMBER 15
CALICO HOMEMAKERS meeting, 4 p.m. Meetings are held at a different restaurant each month. For more information, call 812-829-5020.
charge of unlawful possession of a firearm by a domestic batterer. OCSD Sergeant Brandon Gasparovic was the arresting officer. 8-13 Amber Beam, 35, Spencer, preliminary charge of writ of attachment. Arrested by SPD officer Ryan Combs. 8-17 Daniel Doerflein, 37, Poland, IN, preliminary charges of battery, strangulation, intimidation (two counts), criminal mischief, and probation violation. OCSD Deputy Brennan Clark was the arresting officer.
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THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
BRIEF | FROM PAGE 1 only at the Historic Tivoli Theatre in Spencer, taking the stage from Friday, Aug. 28th through Sunday, Aug. 30th. Audiences can choose from four showtimes: Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., or the Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at the door for $12 for adults and $5 for youth.
Water Day is Aug. 29 at Farmers’ Market
Residents will have an opportunity to explore water conservation, safety, and local environmental stewardship during Water Day on Saturday, Aug. 29. Co-hosted by the Owen County Soil & Water Conservation District and BBP Water Corp, the event runs from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Owen County Farmers’ Market, located in the Babbs Supermarket parking lot at 459 W. Morgan St. The family-friendly event will feature interactive educational activities, rescue boat displays, market vendor booths, and a community duck race. Organizers will also serve complimentary hot dogs and brats to attendees throughout the morning. Water Day aims to highlight the ecological and practical importance of local water resources while offering practical tips on how community members can help protect watersheds. For more information on district programs and upcoming initiatives, visit the Owen County Soil & Water Conservation District website at www.owencountyswcd.org.
Booming Beach Bash at Lieber SRA
Celebrate the end of summer with a Booming Beach Bash and Fireworks Show at Lieber State Recreation Area (Cagles Mill Lake), 1317 W. Lieber Road, Cloverdale. The Friends of Lieber SRA and park staff will be hosting the park’s annual fireworks show and festivities on Saturday, Sept. 5, from 6 to 9 p.m. The evening will include games, a cornhole tournament, DJ/music, and will conclude with fireworks at 9 p.m. All activities and fireworks will be located at the Lieber SRA beach. Parking is first come, first serve so be sure to plan accordingly. The Friends of Lieber SRA will have hot dogs, chips, and soda for sale. All proceeds benefit the park. Gate entrance fee applies. Be sure to check in at the Nature Center or Camp Gate to learn about other Labor Day Weekend programs and activities. To
learn more about Lieber State Recreation Area visit https:// on.in.gov/caglesmill
OCCC to host evening Micro-Farm Tours
The Owen County Chamber of Commerce (OCCC) will host its Micro-Farm Tours on Thursday, Sept. 10, from 5:15 to 8 p.m., offering attendees an opportunity to explore local agriculture and connect with community growers. Featuring nine unique microfarms represented across two distinct routes, the evening tours highlight handcrafted local wines, vibrant flower fields, farm animals, and regional vendors. Both tours depart from the OCCC office at 120 S. Main Street in Spencer. Tour A includes stops at Sunset Ridge Berries & Bloom for pick-your-own flower bouquets, and Owen Valley Winery for wine tasting and charcuterie. Participating vendors for Tour A include Compass Rose Farm Sanctuary, Celtic Glen Heritage Livestock, and Hickory Hills. Tour B features stops at Harriman Farms & Greenhouse to shop fresh produce and meet local vendors (including Copper Cataract Homestead and Crossroads Ranch), Harvest Moon Winery & Farms for wine tasting and charcuterie, and a visit to Compass Rose Farm Sanctuary. Tickets are $25 per person and include transportation, refreshments, wine tastings, and networking opportunities. Space is limited. Tickets can be purchased online at myowencountychamber.com or by calling the OCCC at 812-8293245.
https://ow.ly/fsjC50Z9yBP.
gmail.com.
Dodgeball, water balloons, and community connection are on the schedule for Saturday, Sept. 12, as the Cataract Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) hosts its annual First Responder Dodgeball Tournament. The Cataract VFD invites firefighters, law enforcement, EMS, and community members to join in on the fun at 2794 S. Cataract Rd. The tournament kicks off promptly at 11 a.m. with specialized first responder rounds, followed by open games where community members can play alongside or against local heroes. Kids can cool off after the tournament with water balloon fights. The familyfriendly event is free and open to the public.
The Patricksburg Community Volunteer Fire Department, which has been proudly serving the community since 1971, will host its Annual Fish Fry on Sept. 12 starting at 4 p.m. at 1480 Chestnut St., Patricksburg. Attendees can purchase a full Fish Dinner for $14, which includes two pieces of fish, one cold side, one hot side, one dessert, and a drink with free refills. A Kids Meal is available for $6 and features a choice of one hotdog or one piece of fish, served with one side and a drink with free refills. Additional menu items and side options are also available a la carte, ranging from $2 to $4. All proceeds will support the VFD.
First Responder Dodgeball Tournament
Arts, Blues & BBQ Fest returns to MCSP
Head to McCormick’s Creek State Park (MCSP) on Saturday, Sept. 12, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. for the annual Arts, Blues & BBQ Festival. Presented by The Friends of McCormick’s Creek State Park and The Whirlwind Agency, this year’s community celebration features live music, regional art, delicious food, and local refreshments set against the scenic backdrop of Indiana’s oldest state park. The day-long music lineup kicks off at 11 a.m. with Jesse Beals, followed by Tim O’Malley at 11:30 a.m. Gravy Bird takes the stage from 12:15 to 1 p.m., followed by Your Favorite Blues Band from 1:15 to 2 p.m. The afternoon continues with the Steve Houk Band from 2:15 to 3 p.m., Piney Woods & The MYPath 5K is Sept. 12 in Harrodsburg Horns from 3:15 to 4 p.m., Big Dog from 4:15 to Spencer 5 p.m., and headline act Dicky Help connect our local James closing out the event from community trail system directly 5:15 to 6 p.m. to the state park! The third Beyond the music, visitors annual MYPath 5K Run/Walk can browse unique works by takes place Saturday, Sept. 12, on-site artists and indulge in with the official race starting at mouthwatering barbecue, classic 8:30 a.m. On-site registration sides, ice cream, and craft local and check-in open early at 7 beer provided by community a.m. sponsor Civilian Brewing Corps. The event starts and ends at Additional support for the the Owen County Fairgrounds festival is provided by the Sweet (364 S. East Street, Spencer). Owen Convention & Visitor’s Designed for both runners and Bureau. walkers of all levels, the flat, fast The event takes place at course loops over paved and McCormick’s Creek State Park, unpaved portions of the trail located at 250 McCormick Creek system, offering scenic views Park Rd., Spencer. Admission along the White River, a bridge to the festival is included with crossing, and a stretch through standard park gate entry, the Tree Tube Trail. which is $7 per vehicle for Advance registration is $25 Indiana residents and $9 per (available through Sept. 11), and vehicle for out-of-state visitors. race-day registration is $30. To For full details, visit www. sign up, volunteer, or learn more friendsmccormickscreek.org or about the fundraising effort, visit www.thewhirlwindagency.com.
Art Guild to host Plein Aire Painting Contest
The Owen County Art Guild (OCAG) will host its second annual Plein Aire Painting Contest on Sept. 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the annual Arts, Blues & BBQ Festival at McCormicks Creek State Park. Artists of any medium are invited to participate, though attendees must bring their own outdoor painting supplies. Canvases and paper can be picked up at the check-in desk located near the Nature Center. Festival patrons will serve as judges for the contest, with prizes awarded to the top three artists: $65 for first place, $35 for second place, and an art gift for third place. Entry cost is $10 per person. Interested artists can register or get more information by calling 812-8291877 or emailing owcoartguild@
Annual Patricksburg VFD Fish Fry
PES to host ‘Picnic in the ’Burg’ Patricksburg Elementary School (PES) invites families to trade cafeteria tables for fresh air at the annual “Picnic in the ’Burg” on Friday, Sept. 18. The event will take place on the school lawn at 9883 State Road 246, featuring lunch for all grades from 11:15 to 11:45 a.m. followed immediately by recess from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and must pack their own lunches. All attending adults who are non-S-OCS employees must submit a volunteer form along with their RSVP by Friday, Sept. 11. Guests are asked to plan their travel carefully and arrive no later than 11:10 a.m. The school’s back parking lot will be open from 10:45 to 11:10 a.m., after which it will close until 12:15 p.m. to allow for car rider movement; anyone arriving late or needing to leave early will need to park elsewhere. The event will run rain or shine, moving inside the school building if inclement weather occurs.
24th Annual Jim Fulford Golf Open The Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF) will host its 24th Annual Jim Fulford Golf Open on Thursday, Sept. 17 at Rolling Meadows Golf Course near Gosport. Recognized as Owen County’s premier golf tournament, all proceeds from the outing benefit the OCCF to support its local philanthropic initiatives. Players and sponsors can register online at bit. ly/2026OCCFJFO. Businesses or individuals interested in sponsorship opportunities can also participate to have their name or business featured. Team registration is $500 and Individual registration is $125. For more information or to register directly, contact Karah Bobeck via email at karah@ owencountycf.org or by phone at 812-829-1725.
CES receives grant for Neuroscience Lab expansion
Cloverdale Elementary School (CES) has been awarded a $4,684 grant from the Putnam County Community Foundation (PCCF). The generous funding will allow the school to expand its neuroscience lab by purchasing two additional pieces of equipment, providing enhanced learning opportunities for students. School officials expressed deep gratitude to the PCCF for
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THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
Commissioners tackle data centers, health coverage, and 911 leadership By Tyler DeFord Interim Editor During a marathon 3.5-hour session held Aug. 6, the Owen County Board of Commissioners heard public comments regarding datacenters, made plans for repaving roads, made a worrying discovery about county employee health coverage, and approved a new director for the 911 Dispatch Center. The Commissioners’ Room was full, and extra chairs were brought in with standing-room-only space available for the first part of the meeting. County Health Insurance Coverage Ronald Remak, from Bill C. Brown Associates presented health insurance options for county employees to the three commissioners. The county sought bids for health coverage for its employees from three major insurance providers, all of which declined to provide quotes. According to Remak, this was a result
of overall low health in the State of Indiana and more specifically that in the last year the county had more than double the amount of payouts as they paid in premiums. “When you have a situation where an insurance company has that big of a payout with that little money coming in, it’s just not profitable for them to provide coverage,” Remak said. Commissioners Hear From Citizens About Datacenters County resident Mike Broach presented a draft ordinance to the commissioners that recommends banning all data centers of any kind in Owen County. He cited similar ordinances passed by the board of commissioners in Marshall County. His proposal also included prohibitions on wind, solar and industrial scale battery farms anywhere in the county. Public comments about these datacenters also took up a fair chunk of the meeting with
ARTIST | FROM PAGE 1 His affinity for drawing began long before setting up roots on the south side of the town of Spencer. Like many artists, the drive to sketch emerged early in his childhood. “I’ve always liked to draw,” Adams said. “It’s mostly what I did in school when I was supposed to be paying attention to the teachers.” That childhood inclination was fostered by a creative household and inspiring educators. “Everybody in my family does some kind of artwork as a hobby,” he noted. “And I had some great teachers in junior high and high school.” That foundation led Adams to Indiana University in Bloomington, where he majored in art, ultimately turning his lifelong passion into a nearly two-decade career in commercial publishing. “I was a book illustrator for 18 years at AuthorHouse,” Adams said. “All kinds of children’s books, book covers, all original artwork. I wouldn’t even guess how many books I’ve been a part of through the years.” It didn’t take long for Adams’ illustration work to expand onto larger community canvases around Owen County, starting with SES. “The first one at Spencer Elementary was about 20 years ago,” Adams recalled. “That was the big mural in the cafeteria showing the courthouse dome and different scenes around town. I’ve talked to adults now who
most in attendance being strongly against having datacenters of any kind in Owen County. The most support the idea of a datacenter received was from a few people who wanted the ban to be temporary and not permanent. New 911 Director Approved After hearing from the public, the commissioners considered the appointment of Alyssa Heaslet as Owen County 911 Dispatch Director, following a recommendation from the Owen County 911 Board. The meeting included nearly two hours of contentious debate, during which former dispatcher Alan McBride voiced strong objections and made unverified claims. During the nearly two hours of public comment, McBride called into question the commissioners’ commitment to public safety, Heaslet’s professional
remember watching me paint that when they were kids.” Working in high-visibility environments naturally draws curious onlookers, a dynamic Adams warmly embraces, especially when young kids stop to watch him create. “Some people get really nervous about painting in public, but I’m fine with it,” he said. “I just try to be friendly and interact a little bit with the kids. Maybe it gets them interested in art outside of the normal workaday world.” Those spontaneous interactions often leave lasting impressions across generations. “When I’m outside painting storefront windows around the [courthouse] square, I like to give a kid the brush and let them paint a little bit,” Adams shared. “It lets them feel like they’re a part of it.” Creating public art requires a balance of audience consideration and precise preparation. “If I’m creating something for the school, I work up the design, submit it, and let administrators go through the process of letting me know what changes they want, keeping it lighthearted and kid-friendly,” Adams explained. “If I’m doing window art around the square, a lot of times I’ll look at ideas online, and for Christmas especially, I like to look at vintage holiday cards for inspiration.” Translating a handdrawn sketch onto a massive wall requires patience and geometry, a stage Adams considers the most laborintensive part of the job. “The most time-consuming
qualifications, and the experience of the 911 Board to make the recommendation. Heaslet defended herself and her experience saying that if McBride had any proof to his accusations, she would like to see them. Heaslet and other 911 employees in attendance admitted that there were several issues that would need to be addressed by a new director. Heaslet was ultimately confirmed as the new 911 Director by a 3-0 board vote, with conditions for a 90-day review and a report being submitted to the commissioners every two weeks. Regarding issues at the 911 Dispatch Center, commissioner Norm Warner stated, “I would like this to be the last time, for however long I am insane enough to sit in this chair, that I have to hear about 911 and all the problems down there. I would like to hear that we’ve fixed a few of them.”
Additional Discussion The commissioners also heard from a representative of the 2026 Hilly Hundred bicycle tour to ask for an officer to help the more than 1,200 bicycles cross State Road 46 in Owen County. Chad Walker, Deputy Superintendent of the Owen County Highway Department presented quotes to replace culverts on Sherfield Road and MacVille Road before road surface repair can begin. Repairs are also slated to come to Hyden and Howard roads. The lease for the county armory building was extended for the next five years at $2,600 per month. The current and future tenant, Kathleen’s Gymnastics, has occupied the building for several years. Commissioner Sam Hobbs pointed out that there were some repairs that the building needed and that the proceeds from the rent should go toward making those repairs.
part is making the grid and transferring the design on there to get it all right,” he said. “I draw the grid on the
the final mural depending on the scale.” Near the tail end of the 2025–2026 school year,
wall and use that as a guide.” When asked about the total time investment required for a large mural, Adams smiled. “I’m really terrible with tracking time,” he laughed. “I’ll spend two or three hours doing an initial sketch, an hour or so making revisions, and after that, it might take 12 to 18 hours or so to paint
Adams put the finishing touches on a massive gymnasium mural at Spencer Elementary School featuring the iconic SES Wildcat. More recently, he’s been spotted in the community of Gosport, adding his signature painted artwork to storefront windows for several local
ARTIST | PAGE 12
CATARACT MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH
John 4: 13-14 13 Jesus Replied, “Anyone who drinks this water will soon become
thirsty again. thirsty again.
14
But those who drink the water I give will never be
INTERIM PASTOR NICK ROBERTSON SUNDAY MORNING SERVICE 10:30 AM Phone: 812-829-6708
SPRING REVIVAL
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THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
Cloverdale Middle School Sports Calendar CO-ED CROSS COUNTRY September 1 4:30 p.m. vs John R. Wooden and Monrovia at Cloverdale September 8 5:30 p.m. vs Edgewood at Cloverdale September 10
5 p.m. vs Owen Valley at Owen Valley September 12 11 a.m. at Jon Mitchell Invite at Cascade September 19 10:30 a.m. at Tiger Cub Invite at Big Walnut Sports Park
7TH & 8TH GRADE FOOTBALL August 27 6 p.m. vs Eastern Greene at Cloverdale September 10 6 p.m. vs Brown County at Cloverdale September 17 6 p.m. vs South Putnam at South
Putnam
at Edgewood
at Cloverdale
7TH & 8TH GRADE VOLLEYBALL August 24 6 p.m. vs Eminence at Eminence
September 3 6 p.m. vs Owen Valley at Cloverdale
September 14 6 p.m. vs North Putnam at North Putnam
August 25 6 p.m. vs Monrovia at Monrovia August 31 6 p.m. vs Edgewood
September 8 6 p.m. vs Brown County at Brown County September 10 at Geo Next Generation tourney
September 17 5:30 p.m. vs Cascade at Cloverdale September 19 9 a.m. vs Clay City at Clay City
Cloverdale High School Sports Calendar VARSITY CO-ED CROSS COUNTRY August 22 9 a.m. at Harrier Classic at Brown County August 29 9 a.m. at Riverton Parke Invite at Riverton Parke September 5 6 p.m. at Clay City Invitational at Clay City JUNIOR VARSITY FOOTBALL August 24
6 p.m. vs Greencastle at Greencastle August 31 6 p.m. vs North Putnam at Cloverdale September 5 10 a.m. vs Owen Valley at Cloverdale VARSITY FOOTBALL August 21 7 p.m. vs Greencastle at Cloverdale August 28 7 p.m. vs North
Putnam at North Putnam September 4 7 p.m. vs Owen Valley at Owen Valley GIRLS’ GOLF August 22 9 a.m. at Western Indiana Conference meet at Forest Park in Brazil August 24 4:30 p.m. vs Owen Valley and North Putnam at at Twin Bridges Golf Club in
Danville
Crawfordsville
August 25 5 p.m. vs Greencastle and Clay City at at Clover Meadows
September 2 4:30 p.m. vs Greencastle and Monrovia at Tiger Pointe Golf & Event Center in Greencastle
August 27 5:30 p.m. vs Shakamak at Phil Harris Golf Course in Linton September 1 5 p.m. vs South Vermillion and Southmont at Crawfordsville Country Club in
VARSITY VOLLEYBALL August 24 7:30 p.m. vs South Vermillion at South Vermillion August 25 7:30 p.m. vs Clay City at Cloverdale August 27
7:30 p.m. vs West Vigo at Cloverdale September 1 6 p.m. vs Bloomfield at Bloomfield September 3 7:30 p.m. vs Greencastle at Greencastle September 5 9 a.m. at Lions Classic at Lighthouse Christian Academy September 7 7:30 p.m. vs Northview at Cloverdale
Owen Valley Middle School Sports Calendar CO-ED CROSS COUNTRY September 2 5:30 p.m. vs Edgewood at Owen Valley September 9 5 p.m. vs South Putnam at Owen Valley September 10 5 p.m. Cloverdale at Owen Valley
September 14 5 p.m. vs Brown County and Southwestern (Shelby)
6 p.m. vs Tri-North at Owen Valley
September 17 5:45 p.m. vs Jackson Creek at Jackson Creek
September 10 6 p.m. vs Edgewood at Edgewood
7TH & 8TH GRADE FOOTBALL August 27
September 2 6 p.m. vs North Clay at Owen Valley
September 17 6 p.m. Seventh Grade Football vs Sullivan at Sullivan
7 p.m. Eighth Grade Football vs Sullivan at Sullivan VOLLEYBALL August 24 6 p.m. vs St. Charles Borromeo at Owen Valley August 26 6 p.m. vs Edgewood at Edgewood
September 1 6 p.m. vs North Clay at North Clay September 2 6 p.m. vs LintonStockton at Owen Valley September 3 6 p.m. vs Cloverdale at Cloverdale September 8 6 p.m. vs Tri-North at
Tri-North September 9 6 p.m. vs Eastern Greene at Owen Valley September 10 6 p.m. vs Martinsville at Martinsville September 16 6 p.m. vs White River Valley at White River Valley
Owen Valley High School Sports Calendar CO-ED CROSS COUNTRY August 22 9 a.m. at Cardinal Invite at Bloomfield August 26 6 p.m. vs Lighthouse Christian Academy at Owen Valley September 1 6 p.m. at Mustang Invitational at Edgewood September 5 9 a.m. at Clay City Invitational at Clay City JUNIOR VARSITY FOOTBALL August 24 6 p.m. vs Brown County at Owen Valley
12 p.m. vs Cloverdale at Cloverdale VARSITY FOOTBALL August 21 7 p.m. vs Brown County at Owen Valley August 28 7 p.m. vs Southmont at Southmont September 4 7 p.m. vs Cloverdale at Owen Valley GIRLS’ GOLF August 22 9 a.m. at WIC Tournament vs Northview at Forest Park Golf Course in Brazil
August 29 11 a.m. vs Southmont at Owen Valley
August 26 5 p.m. vs Edgewood at Rolling Meadows Golf Course
September 5
August 27
5:30 p.m. vs South Vermillion at Geneva Hills Golf Course in Clinton
GIRLS SOCCER August 26 7 p.m. vs vs Sullivan at Sullivan
September 2 5 p.m. vs Sullivan at Sullivan Elks Country Club in Sullivan
August 29 12 p.m. vs Bloomfield at Bloomfield
BOYS’ SOCCER August 26 5 p.m. vs vs Sullivan at Sullivan August 27 11 a.m. vs Lighthouse Christian Academy at Owen Valley August 29 10 a.m. vs Bloomfield at Bloomfield September 1 6 p.m. vs Mitchell at Owen Valley September 3 5:30 p.m. vs North Knox at North Knox
SALE ON THE SQUARE EVERY LAST SATURDAY — MAY THRU OCTOBER on Franklin Street, Downtown Spencer, 9am–2pm
May 30 • June 27 • July 25 • August 29 September 26 • October 31
September 1 5:30 p.m. vs Bedford North Lawrence at Owen Valley
Bloomfield at Bloomfield.
6 p.m. vs West Vigo at West Vigo
September 3 5 p.m. vs Brown County at Brown County
September 3 6 p.m. vs Clay City at Clay City
September 5 11 a.m. vs Vincennes Lincoln at Vincennes Lincoln
BOYS’ TENNIS August 25 5:30 p.m. vs North Daviess at Owen Valley
JUNIOR VARSITY VOLLEYBALL August 24 6 p.m. vs Vincennes Lincoln at Owen Valley
August 26 5 p.m. vs LintonStockton at Owen Valley
August 27 6 p.m. vs North Putnam at North Putnam
August 27 5 p.m. vs Edgewood at Edgewood
September 1 6 p.m. vs Brown County at Brown County
September 2 4:30 p.m. vs
September 2
VARSITY VOLLEYBALL August 24 7:30 p.m. vs Vincennes Lincoln at Owen Valley August 27 7 p.m. vs North Putnam at North Putnam September 1 7 p.m. vs Brown County at Brown County September 2 7 p.m. vs West Vigo at West Vigo September 3 7 p.m. vs Clay City at Clay City
Come and shop the “little yard sales” on the Square—Saturday, August 29! Interested in selling? Reserve a spot for $20. We’ll give you $10 back when you set up. Sell. Shop. Enjoy Downtown Spencer.
SpencerMainStreet.org
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THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
BRIEF | Owen County. FROM PAGE 5 Vendors its continued investment in local children and ongoing support of nonprofit organizations throughout Putnam County.
Neff reappointed to NACo leadership roles
Owen County Councilman Anton Neff has been reappointed to national leadership positions with the National Association of Counties (NACo) for the 2026–2027 term. In an appointment letter dated Aug. 6, NACo President George Dunlap selected Neff to continue serving as Vice Chair of the Membership Standing Committee, as well as a member of both the Healthy Counties Innovation Council and the Rural Action Caucus (RAC). The appointments align with NACo’s presidential spotlight initiative, “Building Better Futures,” which focuses on investing in opportunities for young people. Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with local government leaders nationwide, Neff noted that it remains an honor to represent Indiana’s 92 counties and especially his home community of
applications open for Apple Butter Festival
The Spencer Lions Club is accepting vendor applications for its annual Apple Butter Festival, taking place Saturday, Sept. 19 (9 a.m. to 9 p.m.) and Sunday, Sept. 20 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Regular 10’x10’ booth spaces are available for $100 for the weekend, while food, boutique, trailer, and truck spaces are priced at $15 per linear foot. Electrical hookups and water access are also available for additional fees. Vendor setup begins Friday, Sept. 18, and all booths must be ready by 9 a.m. Saturday. The event will run rain or shine. Completed forms and payment should be mailed to: Spencer Lions Club, Attn: ABF Vendor, 59 N. Main St., Spencer, IN 47460. For questions, contact Jim Query at pccjim. query@yahoo.com or call 812-322-8950.
Owen Valley Haunted Wine Run 5k
Lace up your running shoes and raise a glass! The Owen Valley Haunted Wine Run 5k is coming to Owen Valley Winery, located at 491 Timber Ridge Rd. in Spencer, on Sunday, Oct. 4, at 10
a.m. Whether you are a seasoned runner, a casual walker, or simply a wine enthusiast, this event offers a perfect blend of fitness, flavor, and autumn scenery. Participants will navigate a chip-timed 5k crosscountry route—or an optional 1.5-mile walk— winding through the winery’s picturesque vineyards, which are known for their artisanal, farm-to-glass wine production. Every registrant receives a full lineup of race swag to remember the day. Your entry includes a soft ringspun cotton t-shirt (with an option to upgrade to a warm hoodie), a souvenir plastic wine glass, a finisher medal that doubles as a functional wine stopper, free downloadable race photos, and a complimentary pour of wine waiting for you at the finish line. The race is professionally timed and scored by J3 Timing, with full results posted online at www.J3Timing. com. Best of all, your participation supports a great cause, as this year’s event proudly partners with the YMCA to benefit the local Owen County community. To sign up or learn more, visit https:// runsignup.com/ Race/IN/Spencer/ OwenValleyWineRun5k.
Cataract VFD
QUILTING | FROM PAGE 1 chosen cause based on how many Unraveled Quilt-a-Thon. “It started after COVID when we could start getting together again,” recalled Lisa Stantz, owner of Unraveled Quilt Store. “I always liked the charm of having it in the parking lot under a tent.” The event started as a way for quilters to get together in an outside setting due to the social distance restrictions during the Covid 19 pandemic. Now, over six years later the Quilt-a-thon has raised over $46,000 for charities in Owen County and beyond. This year’s Quilt-a-thon beneficiaries are two local animal shelters: Compass Rose Farm Sanctuary and the Sanctuary at Browning Farms. The Quilt-a-thon works like a walk-a-thon or a dance marathon. Participating quilters get sponsors from individuals or businesses that donate to the event’s
announces call for festival vendors
The village of Cataract will host the 57th Annual Cataract Volunteer Fire Department Bean Dinner Festival from Friday, Oct. 2, through Sunday, Oct. 4. The tradition features 850 pounds of ham and beans alongside a variety of festival favorites including barbecue, kettle corn, burgers, and ice cream. Attendees can browse vendor booths offering tools, crafts, art, antiques, jewelry, and apparel throughout the weekend. Organizers are currently seeking additional vendors and volunteers to support the event. Booth spaces are available for $30. Interested vendors, volunteers, or attendees seeking more information can call 765-720-8178, email cataractbeandinner@ yahoo.com, or visit cataractfire.com.
Vendor applications open for Arts in the Park & Classic Car Show Vendor applications are open for the Second Annual Arts in the Park & Classic Car Show, returning to Cooper Commons park in Spencer on Saturday, Oct. 24. The Sweet Owen Arts Commission invites artists, food vendors, and non-profit organizations
ago, when she was helping her son hours that the participant spends move to Indiana for a new job at quilting. Crane Naval Base. She remembers a We start at 10 a.m. and go until 2 frustrating car ride that led her to seek a.m.,” said Stantz. “We start with 32 out some quilt-therapy. people at 10 a.m. and we only have “I was going to kill him, because about five left at 2 a.m.” he was driving me nuts,” Hannah She said that the 2 a.m. limit recalled. “So I went looking for a local had to be set because otherwise the quilt store and this was the closest marathon would never end. The first one.” Quilt-a-thon ended at noon the day She kept coming back, she says, after it started. for the amazing quilting community “The first year we started at 4 p.m. that she found here in Spencer. and I thought, ‘Great,’ because people “Even though I’ve flown 600 miles, would be tired, but by the next day I this is my local quilt store,” she said. had to say, ‘Girls, I’m calling it. I don’t Dedication to quilting and to the know how long they would have sewn local quilting community is something if I had just let them go.’” that everyone at the event shared. The event brings in quilting Spencer resident Amber Brooks-Wolfe enthusiasts from around the county, didn’t let a foot injury stop her from and even around the country like quilting at the event. She replaced her Columbia, Maryland resident Annette normal foot pedal with a switch that Hannah who flew in just for the she works with her hand instead. Quilt-A-Thon. Hannah discovered the Unraveled Quilt Store many years “I was not going to miss it this
to participate in this vibrant community celebration, which offers a prime opportunity to showcase work, grow local businesses, and support the arts across Owen and surrounding counties. Artist and food vendor booth fees are set at $50, while space is available free of charge for nonprofit organizations. Due to limited availability, prospective vendors are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible before the Oct. 10 deadline. Interested applicants can secure their spots online by visiting www. sweetowenarts.org. For questions or additional information regarding the event, call 317-3316716 or email info@ sweetowenarts.org.
New children’s book published by Owen County author
Freedom author Azariah Keith published a new children’s book on Aug. 10th titled “Gift From a Stranger.” The book also features illustrations from local mural artist Israel Hogan. The book tells the story of a little girl who dreams of one day having her very own toothbrush. The book is now available to purchase online at Amazon and westbowpress.com.
BRIEF | PAGE 16
year, even with a broken foot,” she said. “It’s a little harder because you don’t have both hands to feed the fabric but I’ve been doing it now for six weeks and I haven’t sewn my fingers yet.” It was 10-year-old Lilly Brinson’s third Quilt-a-thon event. She learned to sew three years earlier at an Unraveled Future Quilters event. “I just like sewing with other people,” she said. At 10:30 that night while many others had gone home, Lilly was still working on her quilt along with her mother Stephanie Brinson. The 2026 event raised over $7,000 for the two charities, something that Lisa Stantz is very proud of. “I’ve lived in Owen County all my life. Doing this event is a way for me to give back to our community,” Stantz reflected. “Being able to bring people together for the greater good is a great feeling.”
THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
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THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
CCSC Board tackles athletic renovation hearing, 2027 budget preview property value. Following the public hearing, attorney Stacy Barclay with Sutherlin, The Cloverdale Zeiner & Barclay, LLC of Community School Greencastle, presented Corporation (CCSC) five project-related Board of School resolutions to the Trustees opened the board. The trustees new academic year approved the main Aug. 10 with a full Project Resolution agenda that included by a 7–0 vote, while academic updates, a unanimously passing required public hearing the Reimbursement on major athletic Resolution, the facility improvements, Resolution Determining a detailed financial Need for the Project, presentation, and the Lease Amendment approvals across district Resolution, and the operations. All seven Reapproval of Building board members were Corporation Formation. in attendance for the Greg Linton, former meeting. CCSC superintendent A major portion of and current Chief the meeting centered Financial Officer for the on a legally required Cloverdale Distance public hearing regarding Learning Academy proposed improvements (CDLA), later delivered a to the district’s football comprehensive budget field and track. workshop, highlighting Superintendent Dr. that district enrollment Stacy Mason outlined grew by 53 students last the necessity of the year. While the district’s project, pointing to virtual program saw a persistent drainage decrease of 97 students, problems on the Linton noted that the football field and an program remains “very aging track surface. robust.” Though cash “Our current balances continue to football field faces climb, Linton cautioned significant drainage the board about challenges,” Dr. Mason rising utility expenses, said. “Transitioning to a increasing insurance synthetic turf field will rates, and circuit resolve the drainage breaker revenue losses. issues and eliminate To help offset facility ongoing costs.” project costs, the district She added that plans to transfer $1.5 the current track million from its Rainy had “exceeded Day Fund. its functional life “We’re always expectancy,” explaining wanting to do the that combining both very best we can for renovations into a single students,” Linton said, project would reduce “but that’s always overall costs. done in a tone of very A statement conservative, fiscally and PowerPoint responsible [planning].” presentation from Stifel, The board voted Nicolaus & Co., the unanimously to district’s underwriter, advertise the 2027 outlined the financing budget, capital plan for $4.895 million projects plan, and bus in bonds, with $4.5 replacement plan. million allocated directly Curriculum Director for construction. Dr. Cathy Ames opened Mason emphasized that the evening’s academic the net tax impact on presentations with residents would remain updates on statewide less than five cents testing and upcoming per $100 of assessed legislative mandates.
By Travis Curry Senior Correspondent
Ames noted that IRead results were expected the following day and that ILearn scale scores were already available to administrators, though state proficiency cut scores had not yet been released. She outlined new state legislation requiring individualized math plans for students in kindergarten through eighth grade and commended recent upgrades to the state’s TIDE testing platform, which will now grant teachers access to realtime student data. Reflecting on the return to classrooms, Ames said, “A lot of great things [are] starting out our school year, and I know it will continue to be a successful year.” Moving into routine and operational business, the board voted unanimously to approve the meeting agenda, while the July 13 meeting minutes were approved 6–0 with one abstention. Claims and financial reports totaling $1,133,972.17 passed unanimously, and no public comments were submitted during the meeting. The board then addressed several operational, personnel, and policy changes. Members unanimously approved changing the district’s Medicaid billing provider to Relay, adopted the SuperEval superintendent evaluation tool, and approved stipends for CDLA co-directors and the guidance secretary. Middle school coaching staff appointments passed by a 6–1 vote, while new hires and adjunct teacher contracts were approved unanimously. Trustees also unanimously approved an increase in the IRS mileage reimbursement rate to 76 cents per mile, as well as all
submitted professional leaves, facility use requests, and student transfers. As part of the approved field trips, trustees gave the go-ahead for 14 FFA students to attend the Indiana State Fair on Aug. 13, 85 sophomores to attend the Area 30 Career & Academic Programming Exploration on Nov. 23, and 120 juniors and seniors to visit the Area 30 Career Fair on April 9, 2027. The board also formally approved the complete personnel agenda, acknowledging several resignations, employment changes, and coaching updates: Resignations Christina Bessell (CES instructional assistant) Cathy Ames (Director of Cloverdale Distance Learning Academy) Brittany Jacobson (part-time custodian) Ashlee Burnham (CES instructional assistant) Jason Frye (CHS instructional assistant) Employment Aubree Grundlock (reassigned from CMS Special Education teacher to CMS seventh grade English/Language Arts teacher) Ron Lyon (promoted from substitute bus driver to full-time) Cathy Tipton (bus aide) Kiersten Wade (Knoy part-time Instructional Assistant) Dani Cummings (transferred from CMS instructional assistant to CES instructional assistant) Jenny Dicken (CES instructional assistant) Rae Stout, Ashley Wells, Laura Anderson, and Sherry Flory (CMS four-hour cafeteria staff) Samantha Hollcraft (CMS 5.5-hour cafeteria staff) Holly Howard, Jaci Maynard, and Whitney Wilkerson (CMS instructional assistants)
Dorothy Austin (moved from CMS fourhour cafeteria staff to substitute) Britney Manuel (CHS part-time custodian) Kayla Parrish (moved from full-time bus driver to substitute) Athletic personnel actions included the resignations of Sara Howard (CMS head track coach) and Ken Schnepp (assistant track coach), the hiring of Bambi Wiley (CHS fall cheer coach), and volunteer approvals for Jamie Steffy (CHS girls’ golf volunteer assistant), and Cooper Neese (CHS boys’ basketball volunteer assistant). Acceptance of local grants and donations also received unanimous support, including a $2,000 gift from POET Biorefining for book vending machines at Cloverdale Elementary School and $2,767 from Drew Boyette for the football program. Concluding the meeting, Dr. Mason commended district staff and students for a smooth return to school, noting early compliance with the district’s new cell phone policy. Board members echoed praise for the maintenance and custodial staff for their hard work readying campus facilities for opening day and acknowledged recent donations supporting the district’s neuroscience lab and local contributions to Dollars for Scholars. CCSC Board members Vivian Whitaker, Katrina Lewis, Donna Fidler, Melissa Carrell, Emily Haltom, Joe Mann, and Mike Rightmyer II will meet again on Monday, Sept. 14, at 7 p.m. in the Arthur L. Johnson Administration Building.
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THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
Infrastructure and fire budget top Spencer Council agenda By Travis Curry Senior Correspondent Addressing both routine municipal projects and major budget concerns, the Spencer Town Council met Aug. 3 at the Spencer Municipal Building. Council members Jon Stantz, Evan McKalip, and Ginger Kohr were joined by clerktreasurer Cheryl Moke as the council reviewed sidewalk replacements, park updates, and a funding shortfall facing local emergency services. Following routine approvals for claims and meeting minutes, the council gave unanimous backing to a 250th anniversary community project set for Cooper Commons. The initiative, presented at no cost to the town, includes tree planting and commemorative signage. Council members welcomed the proposal, highlighting the rare occasion of the national milestone. In street infrastructure news, the council approved a $15,800 expenditure for complete sidewalk replacements handled by contractor Steve Egemo, operating under a 50-50 costshare split between the town and participating homeowners. The council also approved two event and street closure requests: a special event permit for Home Team Properties behind 16 N. Main St. scheduled for Aug. 4, and a 45-minute closure of parking spaces near the Owen County War Memorial Wall along S.
Main St. for an annual POW/ MIA ceremony on Sept. 11. Additionally, the council formally approved two engineering invoices from Commonwealth Engineers for Phase 1 wastewater improvements, totaling $20,110.36 and $5,730.85. Spencer Police Department (SPD) Chief Terry Sips provided updates on department hiring, equipment, and operations. Out of roughly 36 applications for a replacement officer position, the applicant pool had been narrowed down to four top candidates, including two lateral transfers. The council also approved a $3,845.31 repair estimate from Summit Auto Repair for a 2013 Dodge Ram pickup truck requiring new lifters. Chief Sips noted the truck, with an odometer showing less than 50,000 miles, remains a valuable fleet asset for a future trade-in or continued use. In street department news, superintendent Tony Floyd reported that crews were freshening crosswalks ahead of the 2026-2027 school year. He also presented the preliminary breakdown for the 2026 Community Crossings matching grant street projects, which carries a maximum town match of $52,497 out of a total project cost of $209,987. Following a recent incident at Cooper Commons involving a damaged playground structure, street crews inspected and subsequently removed the unsafe equipment. The council
approved $500 for lumber and materials to reconstruct the wooden playground platform. To replace older removed equipment and revitalize the area, the council unanimously approved purchasing two commercialgrade digger/excavator toys for approximately $2,212 to be installed in the pea gravel area of the playground. The council also discussed ongoing maintenance issues with fence ties at the pickleball courts caused by children climbing the back fence to retrieve lost balls, with potential plans to install a back gate in the future. Owen Valley Fire Department Chief Lee Freeman presented a detailed breakdown of the Owen Valley Fire Territory’s growing operational demands and projected funding shortfalls for the 2027 budget cycle. Current coverage relies on five full-time firefighters working 40 hours a week, seven parttime weekend staff, and 10 volunteers. Station staffing covers only about 50 percent of the total hours, Freeman said, forcing remaining calls to rely on off-duty personnel responding from home. Emergency calls have nearly doubled from 596 calls in 2020 to 1,189 calls in 2025, with 690 calls already logged to date in 2026. On-station response averages seven minutes, whereas off-duty response from home takes 15 minutes or longer. To achieve dualfirefighter station coverage 24/7, the territory proposed
Food inspection reports Sudoku Staff Report Routine food inspections were recently conducted by the Owen County Health Department, including the following: 7-27 Sweet Valley Ice Cream, mobile food truck. Preoperational. No violations. 7-30 Spencer Lions Club, 59 N. Main St., Spencer. Routine inspection. No violations. 7-30 Sweet House Café, 52 Vandalia Ave., Spencer. Follow-up inspection. 7-31 The Flying Flamingos, mobile food truck. Preoperational inspection. No violations.
a $727,718 budget for 2027, leaving a projected budget shortfall of $162,718. Hiring three full-time firefighters for $18/hour would allow roundthe-clock coverage. Chief Freeman requested the town consider assisting with the shortfall. Council members acknowledged the critical service provided by firefighters but highlighted severe ongoing financial pressures on municipal budgets, upcoming state property tax restructuring, and the potential loss of public safety tax funds. Council members and department heads later agreed to coordinate attendance at upcoming county-level meetings to discuss public safety funding strategies. Additionally, the council voiced no objections to a request from the Owen Valley Sports Complex to burn a brush pile cleared during tree removal for a new entrance parking lot, provided proper burn permits are acquired. Council members noted that downtown parking meters have officially been removed. However, the mounting posts will remain temporarily while the council reviews post office loading zone restrictions, time limits, and overall parking signage to prevent abandoned vehicle issues. The Spencer Town Council meets on the first and third Monday of each month beginning at 6 p.m. in the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St.
Solution on Page 20. Fill in the empty squares so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 exactly once. Use the numbers already provided as clues. No guessing is required; use logic to solve the puzzle!
12
THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
Community support brings state-of-the-art 4K projection to Historic Tivoli Theatre in Spencer Submitted Content After months of determination, community support, and grassroots fundraising, the Historic Tivoli Theatre is proud to announce the successful installation of a new state-of-theart 4K laser projection system, marking a major investment in the future of moviegoing in Owen County. The journey began in December 2025, when the Tivoli’s aging digital projection system began experiencing intermittent technical failures, including color distortion, image instability, and unexpected interruptions during screenings. While temporary repairs allowed the theatre to remain open, it became increasingly clear that
the projector had reached the end of its reliable service life. Rather than waiting for a complete failure, the Historic Tivoli Theatre launched its “Projecting Better Days” fundraising campaign to ensure the community could continue enjoying high-quality films and events for years to come. On June 22, 2026, that vision became a reality when the new 4K laser projection system was installed. Through grassroots fundraising efforts, grant funding, and the extraordinary generosity of a benefactor who helped close the remaining funding gap, the campaign raised an incredible $103,956.01. The success of the campaign allowed the Tivoli to do far more than simply replace its projector. Thanks
to the generosity of the community, the theatre was also able to invest in several critical upgrades that will enhance the moviegoing experience and improve long-term reliability. These improvements include: Installation of a new 4K laser projection system; A new projection computer to support the upgraded system; Two new amplifiers to power the main left and right speakers and the subwoofers; An upgraded 4k compatible HDMI board for the AP20 audio processor; A new 4K DVD/Bluray player for repertory films, classic movie programming, and private rentals. Together, these improvements modernize the Tivoli’s presentation systems
without picking up a pencil, Adams turns to music. “I like to sit around and businesses. play my guitar,” he said. “I When he isn’t holding a took that up again while paintbrush or a grid pencil, working as an illustrator Adams is an avid cyclist who because it was nice to come logs serious mileage on two home and do something wheels. creative without having to “I used to ride back and draw. I took lessons as a kid, forth to work every day that put it away for 50 years, and the weather would allow it; then got back to it. I really that was always the best part enjoy it.” of the day,” Adams recalled. Looking ahead, Adams “Now, every day I try to ride remains particularly drawn to out around McCormick’s projects that help honor and Creek State Park and back, restore local heritage. or out toward Owen Valley “I really like anything that Winery. I ride about 15 miles has to do with preserving a day, but I’d really like to do history, like old ghost signs or more.” building lettering that needs That dedication to cycling to be touched up,” Adams frequently translates into expressed, mentioning past long-distance touring trips. restoration work inside the “I’m heading out on a bike Spencer Pride commUnity ride up to Lake Michigan and center in downtown Spencer. back, starting from my mom’s “Anything that helps preserve house in Indianapolis,” Adams the historical fabric of shared. “It’s about 150 miles the town is something I’m up there and takes about five passionate about.” days. I pack my tent and camp At home, Adams shares wherever I can find a spot. his life with his wife, Emilia. A couple of years ago, I did Together, they have two a similar route from Dayton daughters and three up to Lake Erie and over to granddaughters. Even after decades of Cleveland.” creating, completing a major To wind down at home
Historic Tivoli Theatre Director Andrea White works at the computer alongside the theatre’s new state-of-the-art 4K laser projection system. Installed in June 2026, the upgraded system, along with comprehensive audio and media enhancements, was made possible through $103,956 raised during the community-supported “Projecting Better Days” fundraising campaign. TRAVIS CURRY | THE OWEN NEWS while preserving the charm and history of one of our treasured historic theatres. “This project represents what can happen when a community believes in preserving something special,” said Andrea White, Director of the Historic Tivoli Theatre.
“Every donation, every grant, every word of encouragement, and every person who shared our campaign played a role in making this possible. This isn’t just a new projector, it’s an investment in the future of the Tivoli
TIVOLI | PAGE 20
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Local artist Steve Adams stands in front of his completed mural in the Spencer Elementary School gymnasium near the end of the 2025–2026 school year. The massive wall display features bold lettering and the SES Wildcat mascot bursting through the brickwork, just one of many public art projects Adams has contributed to Owen County over the years. SUBMITTED PHOTO | AARON LAGRANGE work brings a familiar mix of For aspiring young artists self-critique and quiet pride. across Owen County hoping “When I finish, I mostly to follow a similar path, look at all the flaws,” Adams Adams offers straightforward, admitted with a laugh. “That’s practical advice: pretty much what I see first. “Just practice, enjoy the But it’s also satisfying to process, and draw a lot,” see the finished work out in Adams advised. “Go outside, the world. It’s the end of an draw what interests you, adventure before moving on copy comics, or study artwork to the next one. You learn a you love. It’s the best way to few things along the way.” learn.”
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THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
Spencer Main Street celebrates community progress at annual meeting Submitted Content The Spencer Main Street Board of Directors welcomed members, volunteers, community partners, and guests to the organization’s 2026 Annual Meeting on Aug. 10 at Civilian Brewing Corps Brewpub. The evening celebrated downtown Spencer’s continued revitalization, recognized those who continue to contribute to its success, and looked ahead to future opportunities. The gathering also marked a welcome return to the historic courthouse square after several years of holding the annual meeting outside of downtown. Spencer Main Street Director Ronda Stogsdill served as emcee in the absence of board president Julie Coffin, who was unable to attend due to illness. Guests enjoyed a meal prepared by Steve Withem and his smoker, Baby, along with Ben and Kylene Williams, owners of Civilian Brewing Corps. Desserts were provided by Kathy Balash and Debbie Bolin. During the business portion of the meeting, members reelected Ronda Stogsdill, Ben Williams, and Steve Withem to serve threeyear terms on the Spencer Main Street Board of Directors. Secretary Sally Elmore and treasurer Jace Elmore were recognized for their leadership and continued service, along with the other members of the board of directors. Board vice president Steve Withem also provided a lively update on VentFest, an international ventriloquism and performing arts festival sponsored by Spencer Main Street. The festival has become a signature community event, drawing performers and visitors from around the world while showcasing Spencer’s welcoming spirit and vibrant downtown. The evening highlighted the many projects and events Spencer Main Street creates, cultivates, and supports throughout the year. With the help of countless volunteers, businesses, and community partners, the organization
works diligently to preserve the character of downtown Spencer while fostering opportunities for residents and visitors to gather, shop, and connect. Ongoing efforts to beautify and bring people downtown include hanging flower baskets, flower beds along the railroad, tailgate sales, seasonal window painting, advertising banners, tribute benches, and events such as the annual Spencer
10 baskets along Morgan Street, and additional planters belonging to the Owen County Garden Club. Volunteers recognized included Evan McKalip, Shelley Harriman, Janet Rummel, Connie Murphy, John Corbin-Settle, Patti Cowin, and Shea Finnigan. Community partners and volunteers were also thanked for contributing their time, talents, and support to downtown Spencer, including representatives of
term viability as a location for new businesses. Seventeen years later, the courthouse square has become a destination filled with local businesses, community events, and renewed energy. Spencer Main Street’s mission is “community collaboration dedicated to preserving and revitalizing downtown Spencer to enhance living and business.” Through beautification efforts, signature
Members, volunteers, and community partners gather at Civilian Brewing Corps Brewpub for the Spencer Main Street Board of Directors’ 2026 Annual Meeting on Aug. 10, celebrating downtown revitalization and marking a return to the historic courthouse square. SUBMITTED PHOTO | JONATHAN BALASH Christmas at the Square. Presented in partnership with downtown businesses, local organizations, and the Historic Tivoli Theatre, Christmas at the Square provides a magical holiday experience for children and the young at heart, free of charge. Spencer Main Street also partnered with VFW Post #1405 for this year’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. Held on Washington Street in front of the Historic Tivoli Theatre, the celebration was spearheaded by Civilian Brewing Corps. Design Committee Chair Jacob Balash leads the installation of the flowering hanging baskets, coordinates the volunteers’ watering schedule, and oversees the decorating of downtown streetlamps with Christmas ornaments. Special recognition was given to the volunteers whose dedicated time and energy keep the baskets looking glorious throughout the summer. Three watering teams maintain 28 baskets around the courthouse square,
the Spencer Town Council, Owen County Community Foundation, Owen County Chamber of Commerce, and Spencer Pride. Attendees received an update on Spencer Main Street’s proposed entryway arch, an ambitious project intended to encourage those traveling along busy Morgan Street to turn toward the historic courthouse square and discover the downtown area the community is so proud of. Although significant fundraising remains ahead, the organization continues to build partnerships and explore funding opportunities. Spencer Main Street plans to begin the extensive application process for a Stellar Pathways grant, which is intended to support transformative community projects such as the proposed arch. The project would build upon years of investment, collaboration, and perseverance in downtown Spencer. A 2009 Spencer Comprehensive Plan questioned downtown’s short-
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events, business support, and strategic partnerships, the organization remains committed to ensuring downtown Spencer continues to thrive. Membership is vital to this work because dues directly support the nonprofit organization’s efforts to preserve and revitalize downtown. Annual membership dues are $10 for individuals, $15 for families, and $50 to $150 for businesses based on the number of employees. Members receive the annual newsletter and voting privileges, as well as opportunities to serve on the Board of Directors or committees, participate in projects, and help create a positive impact throughout the community. To become a member or learn more about Spencer Main Street and its volunteer opportunities, visit www. spencermainstreet.org. Follow Spencer Main Street on Facebook for event information, news, and updates.
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THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
Gosport VFW Post #7850 members Russell Law, Mike Oakes, Mike Kent, Brian Pierce, Cathy Lietzman, and Candy Lester watch the setup of this year’s opening ceremonies. SUBMITTED PHOTO | KIMBERLY DARLING
Outstanding Senior Citizens of the Year, Linda Holsapple (left) and Ernie East, pose with their plaques during the Thursday night opening ceremonies. TYLER DEFORD | THE OWEN NEWS
Kassie Smithey, daugher of long-time Bed Race MC Kip Seidenstucker, fires up the crowd at the 2026 Bed Races by announcing the grand cash prize for the winners. SUBMITTED PHOTO | AARON LAGRANGE
Spencer residents Richard and Lisa Norman received free American flags from the Spencer Exchange Club to wave before the Lazy Days Parade began. SUBMITTED PHOTO | AARON LAGRANGE
Chalk it up to friendship: Gosport resident Lucas Arnold (left), a seventh grader at Owen Valley Middle School, proudly displays his trophy alongside his winning entry at the 2026 Gosport Lazy Days Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest. Standing by his side in support is his friend and classmate, London Blaine, also of Gosport. SUBMITTED PHOTO
Newly-crowned Little Mister Knox Truesdel and Little Miss Chloe Fauber preside over the crowd during the Lazy Days opening ceremonies. TYLER DEFORD | THE OWEN NEWS
Bed race teams give their all, rushing down Main Street in one of Lazy Days’ signature events while a gathered crowd looks on. TYLER DEFORD | THE OWEN NEWS
Gosport resident Arizona Sparks (left) takes a break from the festivities with her friend Dustin Sink of Ellettsvillle. TYLER DEFORD | THE OWEN NEWS Patricksburg Elementary School student Jorran Delp got in the way of The Owen News photographer Tyler DeFord as he attempted to snap photos of the bed races. TYLER DEFORD | THE OWEN NEWS
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THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
Elly Leonard, daughter of Mike Leonard and Christine Summerlot, tosses candy to eager parade watchers from the window of a Gosport Volunteer Fire Department fire engine. SUBMITTED PHOTO | AARON LAGRANGE
Harriet Figg dons Lady Liberty livery as she proceeds proudly alongside the parade procession . SUBMITTED PHOTO | AARON LAGRANGE
Mother-daughter duo Dr. Lexie Heck-Britton and Eloise Britton throw candy from their “Best Overall” award-winning, tooth fairy themed float fielded by Gosport Dental Clinic. SUBMITTED PHOTO | AARON LAGRANGE
Cheerleaders from Owen Valley High School showcase synchronized marching routines and cheers for parade attendees. SUBMITTED PHOTO | AARON LAGRANGE
Owen County Fair Queen Makayla Hall and her sister, Owen County Fair Princess Makynlie Hall, wave to the parade crowd in their royal regalia. SUBMITTED PHOTO | AARON LAGRANGE
Despite a weather-related start delay, The Fab Four still managed to entertain the festival’s opening night crowd on the bandstand in Gosport Town Park. TYLER DEFORD | THE OWEN NEWS
By Tyler DeFord Interim Editor A wet and windy start may have delayed the opening ceremonies, but it didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the crowd that gathered on Thursday, Aug. 13 to kick off the 2026 Gosport Lazy Days festival. The Outstanding Citizens of the Year, chosen by the Lazy Days Committee were Shelly Leonard and Craig Brighton. The Senior Citizens of the Year were Linda Holsapple and Ernie East.
Little Miss and Little Mister went to Knox Truesdel and Chloe Fauber, respectively. Festivities continued into the night with music on the town park bandstand. Friday continued the activities with the Tim Dittemore Memorial Car Show, the Gosport VFW Fish Fry and three musical acts on the bandstand. Saturday started early with the Gosport Lions Club 5k Race and continued with the annual Bike Race, Baby Contest and Sidewalk Chalk Art Contest. One o’clock began the
Aleesha Nagorski (left), her son Vincent Nagorski (front), Virginia Bowman (middle) and her father Calvin Bowman prepare to shower parade attendees with Dum-Dum suckers from the Spencer Save a Lot jeep. TYLER DEFORD | THE OWEN NEWS Gosport Lazy Days Parade with floats representing organizations from Gosport, greater Owen County and beyond. The parade’s end brought what may be Gosport Lazy Days’ most signature event: the Main Street Bed Races. For the uninitiated, the Bed Races consist of two teams of five, four of whom pull an old wheeled hospital bed without a mattress, and one of whom lies flat on the bed and holds on for dear life. The first makeshift sleigh-bed team across the finish line wins the
race and a double-elimination tournament determines the champion of the event. This year, the Bed Races were renamed in memory of the longtime host of the event, Kip Seidenstucker. In his place this year was his daughter Kassie Smithey, who recalled how much her father enjoyed hosting the Bed Races each year and how much he would have appreciated the event being named in his honor. The champions this year were a team drafted from the crowd by the Indiana Dinosaur Museum of South Bend, IN.
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THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
Ditch the dinner drama: Easy school-night solutions for families By Jamie Jo Lowder Health and Human Sciences Educator, Purdue Extension-Owen County
The school supplies are bought, the backpacks are packed, the first day pictures have been taken, and everyone has officially settled into the school routine, or at least we’re pretending we have! Now that we’re about two weeks into the school year, the reality of those busy evenings is starting to sink in. Homework, sports practice, meetings, appointments, church activities and work schedules can make the hours between school and bedtime feel like a race against the clock. And somewhere in the middle of it all comes the question: “What’s for dinner?” When you’re feeding a family, especially a larger family, dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be nutritious. In fact, some of
BRIEF | FROM PAGE 8 OCCF expands resources for nonprofits
To support nonprofit services in Owen County, the Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF) has upgraded its online support for any agency working with Owen County residents. “The Foundation has been providing important grants to nonprofit organizations for years,” said OCCF President and CEO Janet Rummel. “We want to provide information to help our nonprofits with grant applications to our Foundation or any other granting agencies.” The new web page shares
the best busy night meals are the ones that are simple, affordable, filling and easy to customize. Instead of searching for a complicated recipe every night, think about building a meal with three basic components: Protein + Produce + Grain or Starch. For example, scrambled eggs + fruit + toast; taco meat + lettuce and tomatoes + tortillas; or chicken + frozen vegetables + rice. This approach makes it easier to use what you already have and adjust the amount depending on how many hungry people are sitting around your table. Five Busy-Night Dinner Ideas Taco Bar: Brown several pounds of ground beef, turkey or chicken and put out tortillas, shredded lettuce, cheese, tomatoes, salsa and other favorite toppings. Everyone can build their own meal, and leftovers can become taco salads or quesadillas later in the week. Pasta Night: Cook a large pot of pasta and serve it with your favorite sauce, meatballs or browned ground meat and a frozen vegetable. Add fruit on the side. It’s inexpensive, filling and easy to make in a larger quantity. Loaded Baked Potato Bar: information about networking with the recently formed Owen County Nonprofit Alliance. In addition, the page makes it easier to learn about Foundation grants. Links are shared to help organizations find the community and state demographic data that are frequently required for most grant applications. The resources can be found at www.owencountycf.org/ nonprofits. Last year, the Owen County Community Foundation awarded $590,773 to 82 organizations across Owen County. Rummel said the OCCF is committed to continuing its impact in the community.
Bake a big batch of potatoes and set out toppings such as shredded cheese, broccoli, chili, leftover meat, salsa or plain yogurt. Everyone gets to create their own combination. Sandwich Night: Sandwiches don’t have to mean boring! Offer several choices of bread, lean meats, cheese and vegetables. Add fruit or vegetables and a simple side such as yogurt or popcorn. This is especially handy on those nights when everyone is eating at different times. Breakfast for Dinner: Eggs, whole-grain toast, fruit and a side of vegetables can make a quick, affordable meal. Pancakes or waffles can also be part of the fun, just add some protein and produce to round out the meal. Have a “We’re Out of Time” Plan Every family needs a few emergency meals for those nights when practice runs late, someone has a last-minute project, or nobody remembers to check the calendar. Keep a few quick staples on hand: eggs, pasta, canned or frozen vegetables, tortillas, rice, canned beans, bread and fruit. Frozen vegetables and canned foods can be nutritious, convenient options
and can save you time when fresh ingredients aren’t available. Another simple strategy is to cook extra when you can. If you’re already making a large batch of taco meat, pasta or rice, prepare enough for another meal. Larger families can especially benefit from cooking once and using the leftovers as ingredients rather than expecting one meal to stretch for days. And don’t forget to check your pantry, freezer and refrigerator before grocery shopping. Planning around what you already have can help reduce food waste and stretch your grocery budget. So as the school year gets busier, remember simple meals aren’t taking the easy way out, they’re using a smart strategy for busy family life! Purdue Extension Health and Human Sciences provides research-based education to help individuals and families make healthy choices that fit into real life. For more information about upcoming Purdue Extension-Owen County programs in Food, Family, Finance and Health, contact the Purdue ExtensionOwen County office at 812829-5020 or email lowder0@ purdue.edu.
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THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
Ramblings: This land is our land By Annie Bright
sing the ‘old’ songs. My parents
experimentation. The Division
Logging does not bring a huge
Guest Columnist
were hippies long before the
of Forestry now manages 15
amount of funds to the DNR.
1960s came along.
state forests with 160,250
Logging does destroy habitat
acres. Purposes now include
for birds, mammals, reptiles
my parents. It is about “YOUR
watershed protection,
and amphibians, pollinators,
lands.” Abe Lincoln set aside
recreation, wildlife habitat,
and other insects. Logging
land in Yosemite Valley in 1864
scenic beauty, and timber.
causes erosion of topsoil. It
This column is not about
to hold it in public trust and
Unfortunately, the current
also causes soil compaction
protect it. President Grant
political situation has put our
and injures younger trees.
created the first National
public land, nationally and
Trees are the lungs of this
Park, Yellowstone in 1872. On
locally, in jeopardy. Nationally,
planet. They cleanse the very
August 25, 1916, President
several federally held lands are
air we breathe. I want my
One of my favorite songs
Wilson signed an act that
in danger. In Utah, land sacred
great-grandchildren to walk
is Woody Guthrie’s “This Land
established the National
to native people, Bears Ears
through a forest of huge trees
is Your Land.” He wrote those
Park Service to support the
and Grand Staircase National
with awe in their eyes.
words in 1940 as the Great
conservation and preservation
Monument, was reduced in
The responsibility for
Depression ended. The original
of lands for future generations.
size by over a million acres.
protecting our public land
The Indiana Department
They have been opened to
falls on our shoulders. Our
name was “God Blessed America for Me.” Some of
of Natural Resources was
coal, mineral and energy
descendants deserve wild
the original lines have been
established in 1965. Who
exploration. Your lands have
places to roam. The politicians
replaced with softer less critical
was responsible for the state
been given to the highest
will bend to a man with
words. Now we sing a softer
forests and state parks and
bidder.
dollar signs in his eyes every
version. My Dad was a big fan
other state lands before that?
of Wood Guthrie and other
I will need to dig deeper.
to our state forest. Timber
jeopardy. Visit a state forest.
singers from the 1930s, like
McCormick’s Creek State Park,
buyers look at a stand of
There is a wonderful one right
Jimmy Rogers, Burl Ives and
established in 1916, was the
mature trees and see board
here in Owen County. Let the
Lead Belly. Dad had a great
first state park. In 1903 Clark
feet, not a natural environment
politicians know how you feel.
voice and loved to sing. He was
State Forest, the first state
for the creatures that inhabit
Call them, email them, join a
a young rambling man himself
forest was established with
the forest. Recently, the
protest, VOTE!
during the 1930s, ‘til he met my 2,000 acres. The purpose
The same thing happens
time, unless their power is in
Rattlesnake Campground
Mom and got married in1938.
was forest research, tree
area was logged. Go visit and
‘til next time,
I grew up listening to them
nursery and scientific forestry
see the results for yourself.
Annie
THE OWEN NEWS PRESENTS
MEET THE CANDIDATES OCTOBER THE HISTORIC TIVOLI THEATRE
19TH DOORS OPEN: 5:30 PM PROGRAM STARTS: 6:30 PM
ALL CANDIDATES FROM BOTH POLITICAL PARTIES WELCOME. FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
18
THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
Outdoor Type: Boats I’ve known on the water store lots of cherished memories By Larry LaGrange Guest Columnist
I recall a discussion I had 60 or so years ago with my dad on the way to Kentucky Lake. We had plenty of time to chat on the six- or sevenhour ride down to our beloved fishing hole. Once we were discussing cars, and he at age 50 proceeded to recall every vehicle he had ever owned, the color, make, and other details. That was a list of perhaps a dozen or more. Checking his accuracy was impossible, but as he rattled off car after truck after car, he had the assured tone of a confident memory. There’s little doubt he was nearly right on the money. Most of my cars and trucks are brain stored, but my memory gets vague on a few. My wife would do better at it. She occasionally reminds me of what happened to this car or that, and I nod and conjure up dusty recollections of them. An issue here is that I’m not a car guy. To me a car is a service contraption, a utility device. I clean them at fairly regular intervals, these days at car washes. When there’s a problem, the service department jumps to my aid. Some of my friends are really
into their rides, and I’m sure they could easily spout off their vehicle history. I do recall being very proud of a used blue Ford LTD my wife and I bought in the ‘80s. To us it was luxury vehicles. I fondly remember the salesman’s great line: “Dictators in third world countries drive cars like this.” Good enough for the LaGrange tribe! Actually, we did like that car with its plush seats, smooth ride, and dependable air conditioning. “The boat” was terrible on snow or ice, and once or twice that was a problem. I got to thinking about actual boats I’ve owned or had access to, and it brought back some pleasant and notso-pleasant memories. While growing up and frequently a guest at my grandparents’ farm, I recall my uncle’s old wooden boat parked on the nearby Oil Creek bank. It gave us an opening to fish a stretch of the creek that was otherwise inaccessible. Man, that thing was heavy, but it served the purpose. Then there was a 10foot aluminum boat my dad had, but someone stole it right out of our yard. Dad was boiling mad about the theft and thought he knew the guilty party. I remember riding with him from our Perry County home over to a nearby tiny town and him bravely marching up to a ramshackle house way out in the boondocks. I was truly concerned for his life, not being sure of what would happen when Dad accused the occupants of thievery. We didn’t get that boat back, but
I believe Dad felt somewhat appeased that he faced the alleged culprits, had his say, and walked away unharmed. Dad soon acquired a pretty much identical ten-footer, which was handy for the little ponds and strip pits we fished. We stored it in the trunk of our car with a red flag adorning the pooched-out rear, carted that thing over hill and dale, and got a lot of use from it, even with its confined quarters. Next might have been a 12foot Sears v-hull that we toted on top of his car, tied down at the front and back. That boat was present in the ‘70s when my father and I caught a giant string of early spring bass at Lake Lemon, near Bloomington, but it was a pain to transport. While I was at Indiana State a friend and I bought a tenfooter that we used in the strip pits around Terre Haute. The little aluminum craft was one I took my new wife out in, once keeping her overly long. She says I refused to stop fishing long enough to let her use the bathroom. That one has been hard for me to live down. I take my wife’s word that it’s true. Yes, it sounds like something I might do, depending on how the fish were biting. We also took my one-year-old son out in it, tying him to a small chair with a thick life preserver stifling his every move. It’s no wonder he didn’t want to go boating or fishing after that. On the back of a photo my wife took is the caption: “Nathan’s first fishing trip, March 30, 1973 at Raccoon Lake. Didn’t catch anything.” Eventually the boat ended up in my middle son’s care, and
he affectionately dubbed it “the sinker.” Its bottom was a patchwork of black tar patches covering the dents and holes. After moving to Jasper, I bought a blue 14-foot jon boat that serviced my fishing needs for a few years. It had a real trailer, padded chair seats, and a small outboard, a big step for me. I once took my wife out on Patoka Lake in this boat. The water was choppy, someone zipped by, and waves started coming into the boat. That was it for my wife and this toolittle vessel, unless we were on small waters. In his later years, Dad acquired a real bass boat, a heavy, fiberglass 16-footer, from Tyler Boats down near Rockport. Crystal clear is the ‘80s memory of that boat’s nearly sinking at Dogwood Lake (Glendale). We were out on the lake in March, rushing the season a bit but struck with cabin fever. The water was ice cold and very few boats were on the lake, but it was a pleasant day. We motored down our usual path to the lake’s east end through the maze of cut trees that frequently lurked just below the water line. Suddenly we were stuck on a stump of the many that lurked right at the surface, which was a common occurrence. We maneuvered this way and that, shifting our weight here and there, and eventually we slid off and proceeded on our way. We thought we were in the boat lane that was relatively free of obstructions, but not so. Soon we were hung again. That experience proved to be a real adventure. Tune in next time for “the rest of the story.”
State approves new child care micro facility in Owen County Staff Report Owen County families will soon have another option for child care, with a new state-approved facility expected to open in Spencer this fall and focus primarily on serving infants and toddlers. The Owen County Childcare Coalition, Uplands Smart Start and South Central Community Action Program (SCCAP) partnered to apply for Indiana’s Child Care Micro-Facility Pilot Program in response to the county’s need for greater access to highquality early care and learning opportunities. On August 7, the Indiana Office of Early Childhood and Outof-School Learning (OECOSL) notified the partners that their proposal had been approved. The award includes $49,999 to help
establish the program, which must be open and operational as a stateapproved micro-facility by October 31. The new facility will be located on the grounds of the Owen County Public Library in the building currently occupied by Owen County Adult Education. What is a child care micro facility? Indiana created the Micro Facility Pilot Program as a new approach to expanding child care, particularly in communities where families have limited access to care. Under the state program, a micro facility is a smaller child care program operating in a non-residential setting and serving between three and 30 children at a time for more than four hours per day. Unlike a traditional stand-alone child care center, a microfacility operates as
an extension of an established child care provider. This allows the smaller location to share resources, staff and administrative support with the larger provider. The model also uses streamlined regulations designed to reduce some of the costs associated with opening and operating a child care center while continuing to meet health and safety requirements. Indiana officials have identified community locations such as libraries, schools and shopping centers as potential sites for micro facilities. The state’s goal is to make it easier for established providers to expand into communities where opening a larger traditional child care center may not be financially feasible. For Owen County, that model created an opportunity to bring
an established early childhood provider into an existing community building. Library provides home for new program The micro facility will be housed in the building currently occupied by Owen County Adult Education on the grounds of the Owen County Public Library. Adult Education is expected to move into a new location this fall. Recognizing the need for additional highquality early care and learning opportunities in Owen County, the library’s board of directors agreed to make the building available for the new child care program. Much of the renovation work needed to prepare the building has already been completed. Installation of fencing and additional outdoor improvements are
expected to begin soon. The facility has been approved to serve children from infancy through preschool. However, organizers plan to focus primarily on infants and toddlers, an age group for which finding child care can be particularly challenging for families. Specific information about the number of available spaces, hours of operation, tuition and the enrollment process is expected to be announced in the coming weeks. Experienced provider to operate facility SCCAP will operate the Spencer micro facility. The Bloomingtonbased nonprofit serves families throughout Brown, Monroe, Morgan and Owen counties and has more than 55 years of experience providing programs and services
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THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026
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Big cheers for the new school year!
Fourth grader Gracie and third grader Claire Peacock smile for a photo on their first day of the 2026-2027 school year at McCormick’s Creek Elementary School. SUBMITTED PHOTO | AARON LAGRANGE
Big smiles for day one! Sixth grader Rowan Cooper and kindergartner Wade Cooper, children of Chad and Afton Cooper, were ready to tackle the 2026-2027 school year at Gosport Elementary School (GES). SUBMITTED PHOTO | AARON LAGRANGE
McCormick’s Creek Elementary School fifth grade teacher Ms. Micki Strunk poses with student Wayne Ranard on the first day of the 2026-2027 school year. SUBMITTED PHOTO | AARON LAGRANGE
Starting the school year on a sweet note! Brothers Bryce Holder (third grade), Lane Holder (first grade), and Phoenix Rambsel (fifth grade), sons of Molly Holder, enjoyed some special treats as the new school year began and classes kicked off at Spencer Elementary School. SUBMITTED PHOTO | AARON LAGRANGE
Starting off the 2026-2027 school year with a friendly face! School Resource Officer (SRO) Opie Rheinhart shares a moment with Patricksburg Elementary School kindergartner Kade Hauser, son of Jacob and Dana Hauser, on his first day of school. SUBMITTED PHOTO | AARON LAGRANGE Starting the new school year together! Spencer Elementary School fifth grader Lydia Abbot poses for a first day of school photo with her sister, first grader Piper Merchant. Lydia and Piper are the daughters of Kayla Merchant. SUBMITTED PHOTO | AARON LAGRANGE
Back-to-school photo of the charter members of the OVHS Cosmetology class. Left to right: Kelci Freeman 12th grade, Addalynn Woods - 12th grade, Abigail Plummer - 12th Grade, Josey Mobley - 11th grade, Izabella Klairber - 11th grade, Kaylynn Stickels - 11th grade, Mrs. Crystal Wilson- instructor. SUBMITTED PHOTO | AARON LAGRANGE
GES librarian Lynn Anderson welcomes back third grader Jupiter Bishop. Jupiter is daughter of Blain Bishop and Jessica Shields. SUBMITTED PHOTO | AARON LAGRANGE
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THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026 • • • •
TIVOLI | FROM PAGE 12 and the countless memories that will be made here for generations to come.” The Historic Tivoli Theatre extends its sincere gratitude to every individual, family, business, organization, and foundation that supported Projecting Better Days. Whether through a financial gift, grant award, fundraising event, or simply sharing the campaign with others, every contribution helped make this project a success. The Tivoli would like to recognize the following partners and donors whose generosity made these improvements possible: • The Cook Group • Steve Withem • Joyce Cathell
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MICRO | FROM PAGE 18 to families in south-central Indiana. SCCAP already operates several early childhood programs in Monroe County, including Head Start and Early Head Start programs. Its Early Head Start programming serves children from six weeks through age 3 and focuses on early childhood development and family support. By partnering with an established provider rather than creating an entirely new child care organization, the micro facility model allows Owen County’s new site to draw upon
Ed & Diana Curry Spencer Exchange Club Tony Neff Family Withem Donor Advised Fund David Friedel & Ann Mahrdt Cluce Family Wally & Kathy DeFord Insurance Services Sons of the American Legion Owen County Community Foundation (grant funding) Owen County Preservations Owen County Theatre & Arts Alliance – Community Choir Amanda Knight Bethany Harriman Clifton, Jr. and Janna Hocker Devota Sheffield Elizabeth Wheby Jo Kimmel Kent Messmacher Mark & Diane Riggins McKay Gifts (Kevin McKay)
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Michele Kelmer Michelle David Stephanie Warner Pip Chamberlien Susan Easton Tiffany Morgan Karen Elbin Joyce Smidley Stanley Griffith Freedman Family Fidelity Charitable Gift Fund Pavich Family Gary & Kim Brandt Tatum Dyar Les & Deb Jordan Laura Brinson Beth Guerrettaz & Family Ethan Payne Spencer Elementary School Student Council
and greater reliability for years to come. As the Historic Tivoli Theatre approaches its 100th anniversary, this milestone ensures that the magic of the movies will continue to inspire, entertain, and bring the community together for generations to come. About the Historic Tivoli Theatre Owned and operated by Owen County Preservations, Inc., the Historic Tivoli Theatre has served Spencer and Owen County as a center for entertainment, education, and community gathering for nearly a century. Through first-run films, classic movies, Because of this incredible live performances, educational support, every guest who walks programming, and community through the Tivoli’s doors will events, the Tivoli continues its experience brighter images, mission of preserving history richer colors, improved sound, while creating new memories.
SCCAP’s existing early childhood expertise, staffing resources and administrative infrastructure. The Spencer location will also demonstrate the type of partnership envisioned by Indiana’s Micro Facility Pilot Program: an established child care provider, local organizations and an existing community space working together to create additional child care capacity without the expense of constructing a traditional child care center. Additional information about enrollment and the opening of the new Owen County microfacility will be announced as plans are finalized.
Sudoku Solution
(Game on Page 11)
��live music + free fireworks�� �� Date: Saturday, SEPTEMBER 12th �� Location: Tier 10 Music & Sports Park
�� Time: Concert starts 6 PM | Firework Show at 9:30 PM
�� 6:00PM-7:30PM �� 8:00PM-9:30PM �� 9:00PM �� 9:30PM
��
Admission:
CONcERT DETAILS Cody Ikerd and the Sidewinders American Made: A Toby Keith Tribute Gates open free to the public
�� Fireworks Display ��
Tickets for the concert will be available for purchase at the gate or tier10tickets.com
Thank You To Our Donors!
Owen County State Bank American Legion Auxiliary Post 285 Sons of American Legion American Legion Post 285 Babbs Supermarket Spencer Exchange Club Amberly Drescher Spencer Save-A-Lot Bonnie Fraser Sweet Owen Convention & Visitors Bureau Insurance Services, Inc. Whitley Grace Boutique Anton Neff Thank you to our sponsors and donors for making this event possible. Enjoy the show, have fun, and stay safe!