White sentenced to 60 years
By Nicole DeCriscio CorrespondentElizabeth “Bizzy” Stevens’ three-year-old daughter will never remember what it was like to be held by her mother.
“You and you alone stole the opportunity from this little girl,” Stevens’ grandmother, Linda Wood, said of her great-granddaughter. “She will not remember her mom’s touch.”
When the young child wants to give her
mom a hug, she goes to Chambersville Cemetery to hug the only thing she can – Stevens’ headstone.
“To [her], Biz is a picture,” Julie Feguson, Stevens’ mother, said during her victim impact statement as part of the nearly two-hour
sentencing hearing held last week.
Stevens was found dead with a gunshot wound to the back of the head on Texas Pike on Sept. 14, 2021. On April 24th of this year, an Owen County jury found 39-year-old Jay White guilty of murder and obstruction of justice.
Approximately 30 individuals were present at the sentencing hearing. At the start, Prosecutor Ben Kim and defense attorney Megan
LEGACY
Lt. Col. Dave Allen, founder of JROTC program, passes away
By Nicole DeCriscio CorrespondentSelfless, genuine, patient, loving, the epitome of good are just a few of the many words used to describe the late Lieutenant Colonel Carl “Dave” Allen who passed away recently
following complications from a nearly sixyear long battle with cancer.
Allen’s legacy throughout the community includes starting the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program at Owen Valley High School (OVHS) and serving the community
ALLEN | PAGE 15
FROM LEFT: Carl “Dave” Allen poses for a photo at a school board meeting. Allen was elected to the Spencer-Owen Community Schools school board in November of 2022. // Dave Allen poses for a photo with his wife Julie. PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY KATIE ALLEN.
OCCT
to perform ‘Beauty and the Beast’
By Hannah Amos CorrespondentOCCF awards ON grant
By Hannah Amos CorrespondentTo continue their work in the Owen County community, The Owen News was awarded a Large Impact Grant of $30,000 from the Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF).
Nicole DeCriscio, The Owen News Board President, said the grant will allow the nonprofit paper to continue to print monthly without financial stress, while also providing time for the paper to strengthen community bonds with advertisers to a sustainable point through to 2025.
“The financial support provided by the OCCF allows The Owen News to continue to report verified local information and is a catalyst for a re-energized local economy due to a reformation of a common community spirit,” Tom Wallace, OCCF Board Chairperson, said via email.
Another aspect of the grant will be budgeted to help pay some correspondents, DeCriscio said.
The correspondents and
Two candidates spend big in local election
Staff Report
A classic ‘tale as old as time’ will hit the Tivoli’s stage for the Owen County Civic Theatre’s (OCCT) 10year anniversary. With a cast of more than 60 being directed by Jessica Turnbull, the “resourceful” non-profit is working to put on the Disney classic “Beauty and the Beast.” Due to the anniversary, Turnbull looked to the Owen County community for inspiration and chose the beloved title.
to direct and put on the show.
“We thought it would be nice to tip our hat to people that had been involved in a production over the last two years that was not part of our group as well,” she said. Along with the community being a part of the decision making, Turnbull’s love of fairy tales also motivated her
With every performance OCCT does, Turnbull hopes to educate and bring the arts to the community.
“I’m bringing the thought of community to this,” she said. “I think that’s always a much bigger reason for me doing anything here. I love the arts, and I love bringing that to the community. So, anything I do, I’m trying to do through that lens.”
One way Turnbull keeps “the thought of community” in mind is through the audition process. She’ll “rarely turn people away,” and instead, she’ll focus on what they can bring to the production. She aims to have the community involved in the process as well as providing them a learning experience.
“It’s important to utilize as many people and as many skills as
Campaign finance reports filed in May show two local political candidates spending thousands of dollars on their respective 2024 primary election campaigns, while many others spent a few hundred dollars or less. The two candidates reporting the greatest expenditures also identified sizeable monetary contributions from individuals in their bid for seats on the Owen County Board of Commissioners and Owen County Council.
The Owen News reviewed all available campaign finance report filings covering Jan. 1 to April 12, the end of the pre-primary reporting period. It should
VOL. 1, ISSUE NO. 3 FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2024 WWW.THEOWENNEWS.ORG
PAGE 8 SPENDING | PAGE 7 WHITE | PAGE 6 GRANT
PAGE 12
OCCT |
|
TRUSTED NEWS FOR A THRIVING COMMUNITY
HOW TO CONTACT US
ADDRESS:
114 S. MAIN ST. SPENCER, IN 47460
EMAIL:
INFO@THEOWENNEWS.ORG
WWW.THEOWENNEWS.ORG
OUR BOARD
PRESIDENT
NICOLE DECRISCIO
VICE PRESIDENT
NIKI GESSLER
TREASURER
KURT ROSENBERGER
BOARD MEMBERS
TRAVIS CURRY
ASHLEY FLEETWOOD
AARON LAGRANGE
CORRESPONDENTS
ELLIE ALBIN
HANNAH AMOS
LEANN BURKE
ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS
LOLA GARRISON
PICKUP LOCATIONS
BABBS SUPERMARKET
MILLGROVE COUNTRY MART
SOMMHERR’S BAKERY SPENCER PRIDE
CORRECTIONS POLICY
WE AIM FOR AS CLOSE TO PERFECTION AS HUMANLY POSSIBLE. PLEASE SEND CORRECTIONS TO INFO@THEOWENNEWS.ORG.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
WE WELCOME LETTERS TO THE EDITOR UP TO 300 WORDS. OUR FULL POLICY CAN BE FOUND ON OUR WEBSITE.
HOW TO DONATE
WE BELIEVE THAT OUR COMMUNITY DESERVES ACCESS TO RELIABLE, RESPONSIBLE AND ETHICAL NEWS. OUR MODEL IS RELIANT UPON DONATIONS MADE BY OUR READERS. ONLINE DONATIONS CAN BE MADE THROUGH OUR WEBSITE, BY USING THE QR CODE BELOW OR THROUGH THE OWEN COUNTY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION. CASH OR CHECK DONATIONS CAN BE MAILED TO US AT THE ADDRESS ABOVE.
ABOUT THE OWEN NEWS
THE OWEN NEWS IS THE PRINTED NEWSPAPER OWNED BY THE OWEN NEWS PROJECT, INC, A NONPROFIT 501(C)3 ORGANIZATION. AT THE OWEN NEWS PROJECT, WE ARE COMMITTED TO DELIVERING RELIABLE AND UNBIASED LOCAL NEWS AND INFORMATION TO EMPOWER OUR READERS AND BUILD A STRONGER COMMUNITY.
Owen News celebrates print launch
The Owen News Ad Sales Consultant Lola Garrison, Board Vice President Niki Gessler, Board President Nicole DeCriscio, Treasurer Kurt Rosenberger, Board Member Aaron LaGrange and Board Member Travis Curry pose for a photo during the nonprofit newspaper’s ribbon cutting May 17 at the Owen County Chamber of Commerce (OCCC). The newspaper is the first nonprofit newspaper in Indiana and launched the monthly newspaper in April. The newspaper rents office space out of The Exchange co-working space, the door to which can be seen in the background. PHOTO SUBMITTED BY THE OWEN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.
Government Meeting Calendar
June 10
Owen Valley Fire Territory Board meeting, 6 p.m. at the Owen Valley Fire Department, 401 Walnut St., Spencer. Open to the public.
Owen County Council meeting, 6 p.m. in the Commissioners Room on the second floor of the Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer. Cloverdale Community School Board of Trustees meeting, 7 p.m. in the Arthur L. Johnson Administration Building, 310 E. Logan St., Cloverdale. Open to the public.
June 13
Spencer-Owen School Board meeting, 7 p.m. in the Mike Wells Memorial Board Room at Central Office, 205 E. Hillside Ave., Spencer. Open to the public.
June 17
Spencer Town Council meeting, 6 p.m. at the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St., Spencer. Open to the public.
June 18
Owen County Advisory Plan Commission, 6:30 p.m. in the Commissioners Room on the second floor of the Owen county Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.
Obituaries
Coming soon!
Our community, through the Needs Assessment completed as part of the Large Impact Planning Grant, resoundingly said that obituaries are a priority.
At The Owen News, we strive to get obituaries into the print product. However, the nature of a monthly paper means that printed obituaries can never be the main way to share this information with our community.
Our goal is to have our website be the go-to place for obituaries and to have this space, in our printed paper be a space of rememberance of those who have passed.
June 19
Owen County Board of Commissioners, 9 a.m. in the Commissioners Room on the second floor of the Owen county Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.
June 20
Owen County Board of Zoning Appeals, 7 p.m. in the Commissioners Room on the second floor of the Owen county Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.
June 25
Spencer Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals meeting, 6 p.m. at the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St., Spencer. Open to the public.
July 3
Owen County Board of Commissioners, 9 a.m. in the Commissioners Room on the second floor of the Owen county Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.
THE OWEN NEWS 2 FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2024
THIS PRINT EDITION IS MADE POSSIBLE IN PART DUE TO A GRANT FROM OCCF.
Community Events Calendar
June 7
Senior Friends of Owen County Bingo, noon to 3 p.m., at 400 E. Jefferson St., Spencer.
June 8
Cloverdale Farmers’ and Makers’ Market, 8 a.m. to noon, adjacent to 302 S. Main St., Cloverdale.
Owen County Farmers’ Market, 8:30 a.m. to noon. Market is located adjacent to Babbs Supermarket at 459 W. Morgan St., Spencer. Weather permitting.
The Friends of the Library monthly book sale, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Community Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer.
5th Annual Vandalia Strawberry Fest, 2 to 4 p.m. at 5471 Vandalia Road, six miles west of Spencer. Strawberry shortcake and ice cream will be served in the historic one-room schoolhouse, with live music performed by the High Sierra Band beginning at 2:30 p.m. in the chapel. Admission is $12 for adults and $5 for children age 10 and under.
June 10
Jolly Homemakers meeting, 1 p.m. at the Freedom Community Center, 5558 Freedom-Arney Rd., Freedom. For more information, call 812-829-5020.
Senior Friends of Owen County Bingo, noon to 3 p.m., at 400 E. Jefferson St., Spencer.
June 11
Gosport Farmers’ Market, 3 to 6 p.m. in Gosport Town Park.
Fiber Garden grand opening, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., at 120 S. Main St., Spencer. Hosted by the Owen County Chamber of Commerce.
Braysville Homemakers meeting, 5:30 p.m. in the upstairs meeting room at the Historic Tivoli Theatre in Spencer. Elevator access is available. For more information, call 812-8295020.
June 12
Free showing of the movie “Spider-Man Across the Spiderverse,” 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Sponsored by Ventfest.
Harrison Homemakers meeting, noon at the Owen County-Purdue Extension office, 180 S. Washington St., Spencer. For more information, call 812-8295020.
Caring for Caregivers support
group, noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer.
Senior Friends of Owen County Bingo, noon to 3 p.m., at 400 E. Jefferson St., Spencer.
June 13
White River Beekeepers meeting, 6:30 p.m. in the Owen County Public Library’s upstairs meeting room. Open to beekeepers and those interested in beekeeping.
Homesteaders meeting, 4 to 6 p.m. at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer.
June 14
Mini 4-H Day Camp in the Exhibit Hall at the Owen County Fairgrounds in Spencer. Registration, 8 to 8:30 a.m. Camp ends at noon. A snack and lunch will be provided. There is no fee to attend, but attendees must be enrolled in Owen County mini 4-H and be in grades K-2nd. Deadline to register is June 12. For registration information, call 812-829-5020 or email hende243@purdue.edu.
Free showing of the movie “Lightyear” at Flatwoods Park, 9499 W. Flatwoods Rd., Gosport. Activities and hotdog cookout begin at 7:30 p.m. The movie begins at dusk. Hosted by Monroe County Parks and Recreation.
Senior Friends of Owen County Bingo, noon to 3 p.m., at 400 E. Jefferson St., Spencer.
June 15
Cloverdale Farmers’ and Makers’ Market, 8 a.m. to noon, adjacent to 302 S. Main St., Cloverdale.
Pancake breakfast, 8 to 10:30 a.m., at the Freedom Community Center, 5552 Freedom-Arney Rd., Freedom. Come and enjoy food and fellowship.
Owen County Farmers’ Market, 8:30 a.m. to noon. Market is located adjacent to Babbs Supermarket at 459 W. Morgan St., Spencer. Live music will be provided by Lex Barrett. Weather permitting.
Flag Retirement Ceremony, 1 p.m. at the Owen County Veterans Park in Spencer. Enjoy free hotdogs and hamburgers after the ceremony.
June 17
Senior Friends of Owen County Bingo, noon to 3 p.m., and a pitch-in chicken dinner at 6 p.m. at 400 E. Jefferson St., Spencer.
June 18
Gosport Farmers’ Market, 3 to 6 p.m. in Gosport Town Park. Weather permitting.
June 19
Free showing of the movie “Ruby Gillman Teenage Kracken,” 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Sponsored by Bloomington Youth Services.
Caring for Caregivers support group, noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Owen County Library.
Senior Friends of Owen County Bingo, noon to 3 p.m., at 400 E. Jefferson St., Spencer.
June 20
Calico Homemakers meeting, 4 p.m. Meetings are held at a different restaurant each month. For more information, call 812-8295020.
‘90s Trivia Night, 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Exchange, 114 S. Main St., Spencer. Cost is $30 per team. Prizes, food, and drinks. Limited seating. Call 812-829-3245 or email myowenexchange.com to reserve your spot.
June 21
Senior Friends of Owen County Bingo, noon to 3 p.m., at 400 E. Jefferson St., Spencer.
June 22
Cloverdale Farmers’ and Makers’ Market, 8 a.m. to noon, adjacent to 302 S. Main St., Cloverdale. Weather permitting.
Owen County Farmers’ Market, 8:30 a.m. to noon. Market is located adjacent to Babbs Supermarket at 459 W. Morgan St., Spencer. Live music will be provided by Limestone Nomad. Weather permitting.
4th Annual Serving Owen County Together, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the parking area behind the Owen Valley Middle School/High School complex. Free resources for those in need will include furniture, non-perishable food, hygiene products, clothing, socks and shoes, infant supplies and drinks. Craft Swap, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. Bring craft supplies you no longer need and swap with a friend.
June 24
Spencer Main Street monthly meeting, 6:30 p.m.
in the Viquesney Room at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Open to the public.
Senior Friends of Owen County Bingo, noon to 3 p.m., at 400 E. Jefferson St., Spencer.
June 25
Gosport Farmers’ Market, 3 to 6 p.m. in Gosport Town Park. Weather permitting.
June 26
Free showing of the movie “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem,” 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Sponsored by Jamie Sutton Law Offi ce.
Caring for Caregivers support group, noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Owen County Library.
Senior Friends of Owen County Bingo, noon to 3 p.m., at 400 E. Jefferson St., Spencer.
June 28
Senior Friends of Owen County Bingo, noon to 3 p.m., at 400 E. Jefferson St., Spencer.
June 29
Cloverdale Farmers’ and Makers’ Market, 8 a.m. to noon, adjacent to 302 S. Main St., Cloverdale. Weather permitting.
Owen County Farmers’ Market, 8:30 a.m. to noon Market is located adjacent to Babbs Supermarket at 459 W. Morgan St., Spencer. Live music will be provided by the Bloomington Flute Choir. Weather permitting.
Cops Applauding Recovery Eff orts (C.A.R.E.) 3 on 3 single elimination basketball tournament, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the OVHS gymnasium. Teams comprised of a mix of police offi cers and those actively involved in recovery. For more information, email williambrowne@owencounty. in.gov. Celebration dinner and team introduction, June 22 at 6 p.m. at the Spencer First Church of the Nazarene, 126 E. Market St., Spencer.
July 2
Gosport Farmers’ Market, 3 to 6 p.m. in Gosport Town Park. Weather permitting.
July 3
Free showing of the movie “Paw Patrol Mighty Movie,” 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Sponsored by
THE OWEN NEWS 3 FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2024
26 N Washington St, Spencer, IN 47460 spencertivoli www.spencertivoli.org VENTFEST Ventriloquist Festival June 28-30 (FR 7p, SA 2p & 7p, SU 2:30p)
SOON SHOWTIMES: FR 2P, FR 7P, SA 2P (OPEN CAPTION), SA 7P, SU 2P. ADMISSION $5/$3. INSIDE OUT 2* June 14-16 June 21-23 June 26-28 (WE 7p, TH 2p & 7p, FR 1p) IF June 7-9 FREE SUMMER MOVIES 10A & 2P June 12. June19. June 26. July 3. *The weekend movie lineup might be subject to change depending on the studios' scheduling. It's always good to keep an eye out for updates in case there are any last-minute changes. Visit our website or Facebook page for the most current schedule. Spider-man Across the Spider-Verse Ruby Gillman Teenage Kraken TMNT: Mutant Mayhem Paw Patrol: Mighty Movie
COMING
Filing deadline set for school board candidates
Staff Report
Petition fi ling for those interested in running for a seat on the SpencerOwen School Board opened on May 21st and will close at noon on June 20th.
S-OCS board seats up for election include District 1 (Wayne and Harrison townships), District 4 (Jeff erson and Clay townships), and
two seats in District 5 (Washington Township). Candidates must gather at least 10 signatures from registered voters within their school district. The required documentation includes the CAN34 petition form and the CAN12 Statement of Economic Interest. Both forms are needed for a complete
submission and must be fi led with the Owen County Voter’s Registration Offi ce prior to the deadline.
Early voting for the 2024 general election begins October 8th. The deadline to request an absentee ballot for the Tuesday, November 5th election is October 24th.
For additional information or
assistance with the fi ling process, candidates can visit the Owen County Voter’s Registration Offi ce, located on the fi rst fl oor of the county courthouse, or call 812-829-5028.
Anyone interested in running for the Cloverdale Township seat on the Cloverdale Community School Corporation Board may bring the necessary
completed paperwork to the Owen County Voter’s Registration Offi ce, but the documentation must be offi cially fi led in Putnam County.
The Cloverdale school district is composed of Cloverdale Township as well as Jackson, Jennings and Taylor townships in Owen County.
Donations sought for Coal City Community Bible Church
Submitted Article
The Coal City Community Bible Church ministered to the community for many years with programs for small children to senior citizens. The church was struck by lightning on Tuesday, April 2 and was a total loss. Thankfully, nobody was injured. The church has insurance, but it will never cover all of the loss and expenses. Donations are sought to helo the congregation rebuild.
Checks can be made out to “Jefferson Township — Church Fire
Letters to the Editor
Cataract Lake Area Crime Watch
One would think that our neighbors should be respecting each other and ready to help in time of need. However, with living expenses and work schedules and other social issues, being a good neighbor may not be important in our daily lives. Now this situation is just what criminals are hoping for! Your detachment from your neighbors becomes your Achilles’ heel in your own homestead. Therefore, let’s at least talk with our neighbors and perhaps attend the local crime watch meeting to make our area a better and safer place to live amongst our neighbors.
We are all so busy that it is nice to get together with our neighbors one hour every month to mingle and discuss concerns we might have. We learn what suspicious activities are going on in our area and how to piece together what is going on around us. It’s enjoyable to see each other and find out from the police what criminal activity is in our community.
The Cataract Lake Area
Crime Watch covers Jackson and Jennings townships in Owen County and Cass Township in Clay County. We meet the first Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the Cataract Volunteer Fire Department located at 9582 Hi Ridge Trail. Please come join us.
— Martha Barnett
Owen News Ribbon Cutting
What a heartwarming event the ribbon cutting for The Owen News was. Energetic young folks with backing from great organizations within the community got this wonderful, informative reporting of things that matter and are important in Sweet Owen.
The first nonprofit newspaper in the state. I am just bursting with pride.
I intend on donating to Owen News newspaper as my small part of not letting journalism die around the world.
The news is being taken over by big money and power influences. In our little corner, there’s a beacon of light that’s emitting the happenings in Owen County. It reveals our
Donation” and either mailed or dropped off to the Main Branch of Owen County State Bank,201 W. Morgan St., Spencer.
Donations can also be made online at
givesendgo.com.
The Jefferson Township Community wishes to thank the following responding fire departments: Coal City, Patricksburg, Franklin Township (Freedom), Clay City, Highland, Worthington, Clay Township and Spencer.
small county life. What could be better?
— Maureen Kipp Logging in Owen Putnam State Forest
Just a little news from the state forest in your backyard. As planned, the Division of Forestry is preparing to axe many trees near the Fish Creek Campground in the OwenPutnam State Forest.
While it is correct that they will NOT be doing this directly in the campground, I am still at a loss as to why they are doing it.
I do understand the basic intent of these techniques. You cut down the larger or interfering trees to give other trees greater access to sunlight. The smaller trees grow quickly into the sun, and there is a bonus if these younger trees are more “desirable.” They will get more of that precious light. And, over time, you get more marketable trees from your public land.
That said, I do not understand why this approach must be used everywhere in the state forest. Of the more than 6000 acres in the Owen-
For questions, please contact Daryl Kasper, Jefferson Township Trustee, at 812-859-3663.
Putnam State Forest, only about 100 acres are not in “the rotation”, the sequential and relentless application of this technique to grow sawtimber trees. Personally, I have faith in the strength of God, DNA, human resourcefulness, and human judgment, in that order. It is our poor judgment that leads us to both extremes (either no logging or industrial tree farming) on our public lands. I feel it is wrong to think that any of us knows Nature better than Nature at this point. We ought to let nature be nature some of the time. Somehow 1.6% of the time does not seem like enough.
I now return to the campground. Do we really need to axe that area? It has a campground and one of the most accessible trails in the forest. The campground is in a 120-acre tract.
Logging has its place, just not every place.
Please let them know whatever you think at the OPSF office at 812-829-2462 or at the Governor’s office at 317-2324567. — Jeff Marks
THE OWEN NEWS 4 FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2024
At the Gospor t United Methodist Fellowship Hall Cor ner of 7th and Nor th Street, Gospor t Indiana MENU: Alaskan W hite Fish ⚫ Hot Dogs ⚫ T hree Sides
2024 Owen County Fair Events
Staff Report
The Owen County Fair will take place from July 6 to July 13, but several events take place throughout the month of June. Here is a comprehensive list of the events and happenings for the Owen County Fair.
June 22
Horse and Pony Western Show at 10 a.m. in the Horse Arena. Baby Contest at 10 a.m. in the Exhibit Hall.
June 23
Horse and Pony English Show at 10 a.m. in the Horse Arena.
June 25
Creative Writing Due 11:59 p.m. at 4HOnline.
June 28
Bicycle Rodeo Regular and Mini 6 p.m. Commercial Building
June 29 Dog Show at 9 a.m. in the Show Arena.
Shotgun Ribbon Shoot at 10 a.m. at Spencer Conservation Club.
June 30
Rabbit Ambassador at 1 p.m. in the Exhibit Hall.
Rifle Ribbon Shoot
2 p.m. at Sycamore Valley Gun Club
Lawn and Garden Skills, Zero Turn Skills and Ag Tractor Skills Contests 5 p.m. at Texas Pike.
July 2
Enter sewing wearable, sewing nonwearable, consumer clothing. Open judging at noon in the Exhibit Hall.
Prep/set up time for All Communication, Fashion Review and Table Presentation, please attend for stage rehearsal, at 1 p.m. in the Exhibit Hall.
Enter/open judging by appointment: photography, outdoor photography, genealogy, all animal posters, vet science, beekeeping, entomology, wildlife, collections and hobbies, construction craft, child development, health, civic engagement, home
environment, decorate my life, and all Mini projects, except Mini Foods from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Exhibit Hall. Archery Ribbon Shoot at 6 p.m. at Parker’s Archery.
July 3
Enter/open judging by appointment: remaining arts and crafts (includes: fine arts, needlecraft, models, gingerbread, scrapbooking and gift wrap), aerospace, ATV posters, weather, sportfishing, crops, forestry, geology, shooting sports, soil and water, electric, small engine, computer, welding, woodworking and all Mini projects except Mini Foods from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Exhibit Hall.
July 5 Cat Show at 9 a.m. in the Exhibit Hall. Small Animal Show/ Mini Little Critters 1:30 p.m. in the Exhibit Hall.
Horse and Pony Enter 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Horse Barn.
July 6
Livestock Check-In includes all swine, rabbits, sheep, cattle, goats and poultry from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the Livestock Barns. By appointment: enter foods and Mini foods, floriculture, garden, cake decorating, cupcake decorating. Open judging from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Exhibit Hall.
Horse and Pony Pulls at 6 p.m. in the Main Arena. Ages 12 and up $5, 11 and under are free.
July 7
Market Beef show at 1 p.m. in the Show Arena. Exhibit Hall open noon to 2 p.m. in the Exhibit Hall.
Queen contestant staging (closed to public, only Queen personnel enter building) at 3 p.m. Exhibit Hall.
Community Vesper Service- Gospel Sing from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Show Arena.
4-H Perishables
Auction during Queen Contest at 7 p.m. in the Goat/Sheep Barn.
Queen Contest, Princess Contest, Little Mister and Little Miss Contests at 7:30 p.m. in the Show Arena. Tickets $5 per seat.
Horse and Pony check-in for CF Fundraiser Show, participants only, by midnight in the Horse Barn.
July 8
Dairy Goat Show at 9 a.m. in the Show Arena.
Enter Open Class Yeast Contest 9 a.m. to noon in the Open Class Building.
Pygmy Goat Show at 11 a.m. in the Show Arena.
Meat Goat Show at 1 p.m. in the Show Arena.
Open Class Building opens at approximately 2 p.m.
Michael Norris performs 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Free Stage.
Kiddie Tractor Pull-85 lbs and under at 6 p.m. in the Commons Area.
Carnival Arm Band Night — $28 unlimited rides — from 6 p.m. to close in the carnival.
Horse and Pony Contesting at 6 p.m. in the Horse Arena.
Scholarship Auction at 6:30 p.m. in the Show Arena.
Mud Volleyball at 8 p.m. in the Main Arena. Grandstand tickets are $5, and children 3 and under are free.
July 9
Rabbit Show at 9 a.m. in the Rabbit Barn.
Enter Open Class Flower Contest, sponsored by the Garden Club, 9 a.m. to noon in the Open Class Building.
Enter Open Class Cookie Baking Contest, sponsored by Babbs, 9 a.m. to noon in the Open Class Building.
Swine Show at 2 p.m. in the Show Arena.
2024 4-H Senior Recognition & Farm Bureau Tenure Awards at 6 p.m. in the Show Arena.
Owen County
S.O.U.N.D.S performs at 6 p.m. on the Free Stage.
Kiddie Tractor Pull-85 lbs and under at 6 p.m. in
the Commons Area.
Carnival Arm Band Night — $28 unlimited rides — from 6 p.m. to close in the carnival.
Hog Wrestling at 8 p.m. in the Main Arena. Tickets are $5 ages 12 and up, $3 ages 4-11 and free for 3 and under.
July 10
Volunteer
Appreciation Breakfast 8 a.m. in the Exhibit Hall.
4-H Poultry Show and Eggs Check-in and Show at 9 a.m. in the Poultry Barn.
Open Class Apple Baking Contest, sponsored by Area Realty, 9 a.m. to noon in the Open Class Building.
4-H Dairy Show at 1 p.m. in the Show Arena.
4-H Beef Show (after Dairy) at 2 p.m. (approx.) in the Show Arena.
Uncle Jonnie’s Karaoke from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Free Stage.
Kiddie Tractor Pull-85 lbs and under at 6 p.m. in the Commons Area.
Carnival Arm Band Night — $28 unlimited rides — from 6 p.m. to close in the carnival.
BAR MC Rodeo (Gates open at 6 p.m.) at 7 p.m. in the Main Arena. Mutton Busting ages 9 and under are $10 and Steer Riding ages 11 and under are $20. Call in July 8 at 812-797-6597 with a $5 admission fee.
July 11
4-H Sheep Show at 9 a.m. in the Show Arena.
4-H Horse and Pony Fun Show at 9 a.m. to noon in the Horse Arena.
4-H Livestock Auction Entry deadline after the Sheep Show in the Show Arena.
4-H Skillathon from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Show Arena.
4-H Spirit Night at 5:30 p.m. in the Show Arena.
Luke Lovejoy/ Charlie Archer Band performs at 6 p.m. on the Free Stage.
Kiddie Tractor Pull-85 lbs and under at 6 p.m. in the Commons Area.
Carnival Arm Band Night — $28 unlimited rides — from 6 p.m. to close in the carnival.
Local Truck/Tractor
Pull at 6 p.m. in the Main Arena.
Indiana Truck Pullers Association at 7 p.m. in the Main Arena. Tickets are $8 ages 12 and up, ages 4-11 $5 and free 3 and under.
4-H release all nonsale animals (except Round Robin animals) at 10 p.m. in the Animal Barns.
July 12
4-H Round Robin Showmanship at 9 a.m. in the Show Arena.
Hospitality Barn open to livestock buyers from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Barn Entry Dinner provided for all buyers.
Kiddie Tractor Pull Championship Pull-Off at 6 p.m. in the Commons Area.
Carnival Arm Band Night — $28 unlimited rides — from 6 p.m. to close in the carnival.
4-H Livestock Auction at 6 p.m. in the Show Arena.
Release 4-H Exhibit Hall projects at 6 p.m. at the Exhibit Hall.
Line Dancing following the Auction or at 8 p.m. in the Poultry Barn. Ages 7 and up are $5 and 6 and under are free.
ATV Flat Truck Racing by ISDS at 8 p.m. or following the auction in the Main Arena. General admission $10 and 12 and under $5.
July 13
Release 4-H Exhibit Hall projects from 10 a.m. to noon in the Exhibit Hall. Release all Open Class Exhibits from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Open Class Building.
Old Fashion Country Fair Games/Pet Parade at 1 p.m. in the Show Arena.
Carnival Arm Band Night — $28 unlimited rides — from 6 p.m. to close in the carnival. $3 per ticket.
Hot Wheels Derby at 6:30 P.m. in the Main Arena.
Demo Derby at 7 p.m. in the Main Arena. General Admission is $10 and ages 3 and under are $5.
THE OWEN NEWS 5 FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2024
Schueler were summoned into the chambers of Special Judge from Monroe County, Darcie Fawcett. The day before, Schueler filed a motion for the court to vacate the guilty verdict and a motion for a directed verdict. Vacating the verdict would void the determination made by the jury, and a directed verdict is one in which the judge rules that there is legally not enough evidence for a reasonable jury to reach a different conclusion.
Before the sentencing proceedings could begin, Fawcett denied both motions.
Schuler argued that Stevens’ death would have been impossible to achieve from the front seat to the back seat as the prosecution suggested and was corroborated by testimony from Tyler Byers.
“His entire testimony was incredibly dubious,” Schuler said.
Schuler also argued that White believed he had to agree to the polygraph, which he failed, in order to speak to police.
She asked for the verdict to be overturned or for a new trial to be granted.
Kim argued that they would be rearguing the
evidence and that it is within a jury’s right to choose which evidence to believe or give weight to.
Fawcett noted that neither expert definitively said how close or how far away the gun was fired or the path of the exit.
“I do believe [the verdict] was supported by the evidence,” Fawcett said.
The court then moved into the sentencing hearing.
Ferguson was the first to take the stand.
She said that on Sept. 15, 2021, White’s sister sent her a message around noon saying that Stevens was missing. Later that afternoon, she found out that a body was found on Texas Pike.
“I had a sickening feeling in my stomach,” she said.
And at 5:02 p.m., she received the call confirming what she feared – her daughter was dead.
Ferguson admitted that her first thought was revenge.
“You are the luckiest individual in this courtroom,” she said to White, adding that what stopped her was that she did not want her granddaughter to lose her too.
Ferguson also submitted a separate written statement that was entered into evidence.
Five photos were also entered into evidence including a photo depicting Stevens’ gravesite on Mother’s Day with her daughter hugging her gravestone.
She testified that Stevens’ daughter saw an image of the headstone on the front page of the May edition of The Owen News accompanying the story of White’s guilty verdict and said, “That’s mommy’s place.”
Among the photos was a photo of Stevens in her casket.
“I kept praying to God that everyone was wrong and it wasn’t her,” Ferguson said.
Another photo was taken Sept. 6, 2021 and is the last photo of Stevens with her daughter.
“She’ll have no recollection of this day ever,” Ferguson said of her granddaughter.
Ferguson also testified that her granddaughter has said, “Gigi I want a real mommy.”
“How do you explain it to a three-year-old when I don’t understand it at 51?” Ferguson said. “Part of my mind is stuck on Sept. 15, 2021 at 5:02 p.m.”
She said she did not believe White to be remorseful and asked for the maximum sentence of 65 years for Stevens’ murder.
“His feet should never touch soil outside of a prison wall,” she said.
James Wood then took the stand. He spoke about the business relationship that he had with White’s father, Bud White who owned a logging company. Wood owned a trucking company, and the two had done business together for nearly 30 years. Stevens was his youngest grandchild.
“There’s always going to be an empty chair at our table on Christmas and New Year’s thanks to you,” James Wood said. “I don’t know what sentencing you’ll get, but in my mind, it’s not enough.”
His wife Linda Wood also took the stand, where she spoke of how Stevens’ daughter’s story is forever marred by her mother’s murder.
It was then Schuler’s chance to call witnesses to speak to White’s character. Chia Ruble, White’s sister-in-law was the first to take the stand.
She spoke about White raising her sister Amber’s daughter as if the child was his own.
Ruble also called White “upstanding” and “trustworthy,” despite acknowledging that he lied to police. She said it was because White trusted someone else to take care of it and said that he put himself in jeopardy for Byers.
“His word is his bond,” Ruble said.
Janet Lucas, White’s mother, also took the stand.
She spoke of White’s childhood, noting that he would stand up for the underdogs.
“Jay was a good kid,” she said, adding that he was a “country kid.”
Stevens wasn’t a stranger to her either.
“All my kids had a heart for Bizzy,” she said, later adding that “She kind of landed at our place.”
Lucas said that Bud White was hard on the boys and that he put them to work when they could legally drop out of school in the 10th grade. She said that both of her sons ended up the opposite, saying, “He’s just not violent.”
According to Lucas, White did not ever receive a driver’s license and that he has some trouble reading.
Finally, White’s wife Amber White took the stand.
She spoke about how she and Jay met and she testified that she started nursing school one week after they got married. She said that while she was stressed about going to school and working fulltime, Jay told her to quit work and that he would support their family.
“He’s a very good dad,” Amber White said of her
WHITE | PAGE 8
THE OWEN NEWS 6 FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2024
WHITE | FROM PAGE 1
Vandalia Strawberry Fest is this weekend
By Jason Kinney on behalf of the VCPAThe Vandalia Community Preservation Association (VCPA) Strawberry Fest will take place on Saturday, June 8, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Vandalia Historical Chapel and the historic Vandalia Schoolhouse.
Enjoy strawberries, shortcake, and ice cream, served at the schoolhouse from 2 to 4 p.m., and live
SPENDING| FROM PAGE 1
that campaign contributions included in-kind contributions and loans, as well as cash contributions.
Owen County Commissioner, District II Incumbent commissioner
Robert (Bob) Curry, a Republican, reported $0 cash on hand at the beginning of the reporting period. He listed a single $700 itemized contribution from his wife, Brenda Curry, along with one expenditure, also totaling $700, for yard signs purchased from Nite Owl Promotions. Republican opponent Leonard “Sam” Hobbs II also reported $0 cash on hand at the beginning of the reporting period, while his itemized contributions totaled $26,200. He reported a loan to himself totaling $5,000, in addition to a direct contribution of $10,000 from Mike McCracken, a second $10,000 direct contribution from Mike McCracken, a $1,000 direct contribution from Will Daubenspeck and a $200 direct contribution from Ernie Dufault.
Hobbs’ campaign expenditures totaled $11,032.12 and included: Main Street Checks
music at the chapel from 2:30 to 4 p.m.
The High Sierra band will perform a variety of bluegrass, country, folk, and gospel.
The cost of the event is $12 for adults and $5 for children age 10 and under, and covers both the food and the live music. Proceeds benefit VCPA for preservation and maintenance of the historic chapel and one-room schoolhouse.
($17.71), Winners Circle Designs ($3,000), Spencer Hardware ($468.02), Daniel Browning ($200) campaign contribution, Norman Warner ($200) campaign contribution, UPrinting ($250.80), Postcard Mania ($662.34), Postcard Mania ($932.69), Postcard Mania ($813.38), Winners Circle Designs ($1,280), 48-Hour Print ($214.26), Postcard Mania ($813.97), Norman Warner ($200) campaign contribution, Republican Party-Owen County ($300), Postcard Mania ($555.95), Postmaster-Spencer ($53) and Winners Circle Designs ($1,070).
Hobbs’ remaining cash on hand at the end of the reporting period totaled $15,167.88.
Owen County Commissioner, District III
District III challenger David Risk, a Republican, reported $0 cash on hand at the beginning of the reporting period, while his itemized contributions totaled $23,050. Contributors to his campaign for the county commissioner seat in District III included a $10,000 direct contribution from Mike McCracken, along with an $8,000 direct contribution/loan, also from Mike McCracken.
The event will take place in the village
Additionally, his campaign finance report listed a loan to himself totaling $5,050.
Risk’s campaign expenditures totaled $16,902.55, including: Main Street Checks ($17.71), Patriot Manufacturing ($150.32), Uprinting ($250.82), Postcard Mania ($662.34), Rocket Signs ($6,398.25), Fountain County GOP ($44.90), UZ Marketing ($608.18), Winners Circle ($909.50), Postcard Mania ($932.69), 48-Hour Printing ($214.26), Kelsie Reyes ($1,000), Walmart ($18.84), Owen County GOP ($300), Spencer Hardware ($134.63), Walmart ($30.58), Vistago Print ($659.95), Walmart ($55.70), USPS ($205), USPS ($106.68), RWB Consulting ($500), Committee to Elect Kristi Risk ($2,000), Postcard Mania ($539.76), Postcard Mania ($539.76), USPS ($106.68), Ethan Wright ($500) and USPS ($106).
Risk’s remaining cash on hand at the end of the reporting period totaled $6,147.45.
Republican challenger Amy Casebeer reported $1,705 cash on hand at the beginning of the reporting period. She did not list any itemized or unitemized contributions.
Casebeer reported a lone direct campaign contribution from herself totaling $1,705 and one expenditure, also totaling $1,705, to Nite Owl Promotions.
In the District III democratic race for county commissioner, John Wayne Keene reported $0 cash on hand at the beginning of the reporting period. He also listed $0 cash on hand at the end of the reporting period and no expenditures.
Democratic challenger William Jennings reported $0 cash on hand at the beginning of the reporting period and made note of itemized contributions totaling $628.15, all self-funded. He reported $0 cash on hand at the end of the reporting period.
Jennings’ expenditures included: Johnnys Signs ($335), WCLS radio announcement
of Vandalia (six miles west of Spencer on State Road 46) at 5471 Vandalia Road. Visit the VCPA Facebook page, facebook.com/ vandaliacpa, and website, vandaliacpa. org, for more information.
($97.76), Johnnys Signs ($192.60) and Staples ($37.44). Owen County Council, At-Large Incumbent Republican Polly Chesser reported $0 cash on hand at the beginning of the reporting period and itemized contributions to her re-election campaign totaling $1,800.
Contributors to her campaign for county council at-large included a direct contribution from herself totaling $1,700, along with a $100 direct contribution from Nina Morris.
Chesser’s reported expenditures totaled $1,548.55 and included: Owen County Republicans ($100), Rob Mason ($157.44) for equipment repair, Postmaster-Martinsville ($68), Tab Co. ($1,148.11) for printing and the Gosport Community Building ($75).
Her remaining cash on hand at the end of the reporting period totaled $251.45.
Republican challenger Norman Warner reported $75 cash on hand at beginning of the reporting period and itemized contributions totaling $1,451.29. He received a direct contribution from the Committee to Elect Sam Hobbs totaling $400, along with a direct campaign loan from Warner and his wife, Lori, totaling $1,051.29.
Warner did not list any itemized expenditures or any remaining cash on hand at the end of the reporting period.
Daniel Browning, also a Republican, reported $0 cash on hand at the beginning of the reporting period and one itemized contribution, a $200 direct contribution from Leonard Sam Hobbs.
Browning’s itemized expenditures totaled $413.03 and included: Vista Print ($46.42), Signs on the Cheap ($266.96) for yard signs and Amazon ($99.65) for hats.
Republican challenger William Pursell reported $0 cash on hand at the beginning of the reporting period and one unitemized contribution totaling $100. His
SPENDING | PAGE 8
THE OWEN NEWS 7 FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2024
One bridge to open, another to close on S.R. 43
By Travis Curry CorrespondentMotorists should expect detours to continue on State Road 43 this summer as the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) begins additional bridge rehabilitation work in southeastern Owen County.
According to Sidney Nierman, INDOT Southeast Public Relations Director, the S.R. 43 bridge replacement project at Porter Ridge Road over Big Raccoon Creek was nearing completion late last week. The project began in August 2023 as a planned
three-month bridge deck replacement by contractor Ragle, Inc., but grew to encompass a full bridge replacement.
Previous delays, Nierman said, were encountered due to weather and design plan changes.
While the reopening of the bridge over Big Raccoon Creek is welcome news for motorists, contractor Ragle, Inc. was scheduled to close another section of State Road 43 on or after June 3, shifting their focus to a structure spanning Little Racoon Creek. This closure, which takes place between Stogsdill and Burke
SPENDING| FROM PAGE 7
campaign finance report did not identify any campaign expenditures in his bid for county council at-large, or remaining cash on hand at the end of the reporting period.
Daniel Joseph “Joe” Frye, also a Republican, reported $0 cash on hand at the beginning of the reporting period and a lone itemized contribution totaling $1,500, a self-funded campaign loan.
Frye reported one itemized expenditure totaling $1,217.23 to signsonthecheap.com ($1,217.23) for signs. His remaining cash on hand at the end of the reporting period totaled $282.77.
OCCT| FROM PAGE 1 possible, so that you have a very community driven show, and that’s more of my goal here,” she said. “Not more so than having a good show, but I think by focusing on community and viewing it through that lens, you will have a good show. You’re going to bring your best because you’re accessing as many talents as you can. It’s a good spirit to carry to the community.”
Turnbull has decided to replicate the historical wear of the time period to make their production of the classic unique. Turnbull and the cast hope to bring the frills
Shiloh roads, is expected to be complete by early September, weather permitting.
During the closure, motorists should use the official detour route
In the democratic race for Owen County Council at-Large, Sandra (Wood) Calvert reported $0 cash on hand at the beginning of the reporting period and one unitemized contribution totaling $40. Her remaining cash on hand at the end of the reporting period also totaled $40.
Owen County Auditor Incumbent county auditor Sheila Reeves, a Republican, noted no expenditures were incurred by her campaign due to utilizing yard signs remaining from her prior election bid. She reported $0 cash on hand at the end of the reporting period.
and ruffles of the Rococo period to the stage.
“My background in art history and just art at IU [Indiana University] makes me always identify the shows I’m doing through that lens of history and what people might have worn and even the processes of doing their hair,” Turnbull said. “I’m interested in preserving history, that’s another element you can educate people with.”
contract awarded to Ragle, Inc. in July 2023. INDOT reminds
Precinct Committee Members
Republican Viola Hall, incumbent precinct committee member for Wayne I, reported $0 cash on hand at the beginning of the reporting period and itemized contributions totaling $295.32, all self-funded.
Her expenditures also totaled $295.32 – a single purchase of yard signs from Nite Owl Promotions. She listed $0 cash on hand at the end of the reporting period.
Larry Bruce Norman, Republican challenger for Wayne I precinct committee member, reported $276.45 cash on
traveling near work zones. All work is weatherdependent and schedules are subject to change.
totaled $251.45 and unitemized contributions $25.
Norman’s expenditures totaled $276.45 and included: Signs on the Cheap ($251.45) for yard signs and Hub City Slaps ($25) for decals and stickers.
In the race for Morgan Township precinct committee member, Republican candidate Sharon Close reported $200.47 cash on hand at the beginning of the reporting period. She made note of one itemized contribution totaling $200.47 from herself and one expenditure, also totaling $200.47, from Signs on the
Natasha “Tasha” Shaw in the role of Belle is helping with the historically accurate costumes by making her own costumes for the show. To ensure the 1991 cartoon Disney movie.
OCCT | PAGE 8
WHITE | FROM PAGE 6
husband, adding that there were only three instances of corporal punishment between the two children in 17 years.
Kim asked the court for a sentence of 60 years for the murder charge, and Schuler argued that the majority of White’s offenses in the past were centered around driving without a license. She also said that White responded well to probation in the past and that this is not a crime to likely happen again. She asked for mitigating factors to allow the court to go below the
minimum sentencing of 45 years.
Fawcett first addressed Ferguson, “You have the court’s sympathy.” She also added that all of the children impacted, both Stevens’ daughter and White’s two children, should receive professional support to understand what has happened.
She also focused on the loss of a mother to a young child.
“It’s plain and simple not measurable,” she said.
While she did not consider it an “aggravator” in determining sentencing, Fawcett noted that White had contact with the court
for a license violation just 34 days before Stevens’ murder.
She also noted that while there is hardship on White’s dependents, she could not get to the point where it was classified as undue hardship.
White was then sentenced to 60 years in the department of corrections, with five years suspended to probation on the murder charge.
In count two, which was a level 6 felony for obstruction of justice, White was sentenced to 360 days in the department of corrections.
Time served will also be applied.
She also mandated that should White be released, he must check in with Owen County probation within 72 hours of his release.
Fawcett noted that she would leave the appearance for Schuler who had 30 days to initiate an appeal on White’s behalf.
White did not wish to make a statement to the court, and Schuler said she plans to file an appeal.
Hannah Amos contributed to this article.
THE OWEN NEWS 8 FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2024
The S.R. 43 bridge replacement project at Porter Ridge Road over Big Raccoon Creek was nearing completion late last week. TRAVIS CURRY | THE OWEN NEWS
“Beauty and the Beast,” performs the ballad “If I Can’t Love Her” at the Tivoli during a May practice. The ballad ends the first act of the Disney musical. HANNAH AMOS | THE OWEN NEWS
Summer reading events at OCPL
By Ginger Kohr, OCPL DirectorEvents for all ages are planned for the summer, and Fantastic Fridays are back starting June 7 and every Friday in June and July at 3 p.m.!
So, hang this on your refrigerator, there is a lot going on:
Friday, June 7: Steven’s Puppets present Goldilocks and the Three Bears. A chance to see real marionette puppets in action telling the familiar story.
Friday, June 14: Fred Walden will be here with some creepy, crawly friends.
Friday, June 21: Mark Booth is bringing Birds of Prey!
Friday, June 28:
Prepare to get wet! It’s time for a long-time favorite program: the Water Show!
Friday, July 5: Our own Field Day, be prepared to run, jump, hop, skip and be active.
We may as well go ahead and tell you what we have planned for July:
Friday, July 12: Magic Don Miller’s tribute to Harry Potter.
Friday, July 19: Professor Steve’s Excellent Adventure.
Friday, July 26: Our new annual favorite program that is fun for everyone: Foam Happy Foam Party!
But Friday isn’t the only day for summer events:
Every Tuesday at 10 a.m. there is a story time for all children.
Every other
Wednesday at 11 a.m. there will be a craft activity: June 12 and 26 and July 10 and 24.
Wednesdays at 2 p.m., for ages 10 to 18, we have a new program: “How to do stuff .” There will be some basic cooking, some basic sewing and some other skills too… but what will be cooking and what will you sew?
Anytime we are open: Bring the kids in to play and pick out stacks of books to read together. Keep those reading skills sharp all summer!
Older kids can continue to enjoy activities with Bradan: On Mondays, we have Lego Club from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays are for
Anime Club for teens from 2 to 5 p.m.
Fridays from 4 to 6 p.m. are for the popular Dungeons and Dragons group.
We won’t leave out the adults.
Book Club with Hannah will continue to meet the fourth Monday of each month from 1 to 4 p.m. Join the fun of discussing a book that you all have read. One book can inspire many viewpoints.
Care for the Caregivers meets every Wednesday from noon to 1:30 p.m. Caring for those we love can be hard work, can be heartbreaking, can cause fatigue, loneliness, and then feelings of guilt for feeling that
way. Sometimes the caregiver needs to get away just for a little while to have their own emotional batteries recharged. You don’t have to drive all the way to Bloomington, you are welcome to join us at the library.
Watercolor painting class meets the fi rst Friday of every month at 2 p.m.
B.J.’s Crafts time is every other Wednesday, June 12 and 26 and July 10 and 24 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
If you have been attending an event that is not listed here, it does not necessarily mean the group is not meeting, but rather, that the class is full and not seeking new
attendees at this time.
Attention: There will be a craft supply swap on Saturday, June 22 from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Remember all that stuff you bought when you got all excited about that new craft… the one you aren’t doing anymore at all?
Bring in that stuff you don’t use anymore, and trade it in on some new craft stuff . Get some new ideas, learn a new skill, start a new hobby! Or fi nd some new materials for your current hobby.
The Friends of the Library will have their monthly Book Sale on Saturday, June 8 in the library’s Community Room from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Stock up on summer reading!
THE OWEN NEWS 10 FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2024
It’s Just a Country State of Mind: Campfire tales
By Susan Anderson Guest Columnistto leave as much of the comfort of civilization at home as possible.
is not for everyone, but without a doubt, it’s something that everyone should experience at least once in their life. As a child, I camped out in my parents’ backyard almost every summer, and my parents took my brother and I camping at various park campgrounds located throughout the state.
As I grew older, my friends and I became more adventurous and started camping by ourselves in the woods near my parents’ house.
In this day and age, camping has become a bit more sophisticated. There are all sorts of gadgets and devices on the market geared towards making a person’s camping trip as civilized and comfortable as possible.
I like camping the oldfashioned way and try
Purdue
By Jim LuzarOf course, the one exception I’ve made to this rule is mosquito repellent. I enjoy roughing it as much as the next person, but I draw the line when it comes to being in the great outdoors, listening to the sound of mosquitoes as they fly around my ears, looking for the next landing site on my body.
A little piece of civilization can be a fine addition at a time such as this.
When I camp, I first have to find a good spot to set up the tent. For me a good spot consists of a flat piece of ground that is free of big tree roots so that sleeping on the ground will be as comfortable as possible.
It should also be an area that is somewhat shady to protect the campsite from the heat of the day.
Camping under a pine tree is always a good choice.
The layer of pine needles on the ground makes for a soft bed to sleep on at night, and the branches of the trees provide just the amount
of covering for shade. I do have to contend with the pine sap now and then, though. Pros and cons to everything I guess.
A reminder to make sure there are no old, dead trees nearby. You sure don’t want one to fall on your tent.
After having found a good spot to camp, then it’s time to set up the tent. Even though there are many different types of tents available, I prefer a smaller tent since it’s lighter and I only need space for myself.
Gathering firewood is next on the agenda. Starting campfires is essential for camping because this is the means by which you will cook the hotdogs and marshmallows that you brought along. There’s nothing like the taste of wieners and marshmallows cooked over an open fire out in the woods.
In the evening after the camp has been set up, the darkness begins to descend over the earth. It’s time to sit down by the fire to swap traditional campfire tales with other campers.
As the logs on the fire pop and crack and
the smoke rises into the sky, the scary stories are traded back-and-forth. They are designed to make the listener more fearful than the last one until finally, the chills begin to run up and down one’s spine and the little hairs on the back of one’s neck are standing up on end.
When it’s finally time to turn in for the night, it’s suddenly as if the wilderness outside the tent has come alive with sound. A stick on the ground snaps under the weight of some unseen predator as it‘s rummaging through the trash can outside the camp.
There’s a sound of an owl hooting in the distant forest as the wind rustles through the leaves on the trees. The shadows of the branches can be seen dancing along the sides of the tent as the full moon rises in the black velvet sky. It is now very apparent to the inhabitants in the tents that the campfire stories have done their work. An extra blanket comes in handy at a time like this.
Regressing back to childhood habits of hiding under the blankets
from the invisible creatures of the night leaves one with very little pride but with a feeling of security all the same.
When the fires of the night finally begin to slowly burn down to the place of dying embers, the sky on the eastern horizon comes alive with colorful hues of pink and orange as the morning sunrise makes its presence known. It’s the time of the morning when the first light comes and it brings with it the new day. That’s the time when life begins anew for all of us that inhabit this earth that we call our home. There’s something special about waking up outside in the woods in the early morning hours. Things always look different in the light of day. The campfire monsters are long gone, and you find yourself alone in the light with your thoughts. The air smells fresh and clean, and the birds are singing. The day is filled with promise.
That’s what going camping is all about. It’s just you and the morning and the great outdoors. Does it get any better than that?
Extension-Owen County solves plant problems
one of those crime scene investigative shows. So many potential culprits, yet the good guys finally identify the real villain. This article provides a current overview of plant
issues challenging Owen County farmers, gardeners and homeowners.
The first step in solving the plant crime is looking for evidence. Taking a representative sample in a timely manner is crucial. The next step is to determine if the problem is caused by a living organism (biotic) or a nonliving causal factor (abiotic). For example, purple corn is showing up in the area and sometimes makes growers think a plant problem is being caused by a chemical. What is happening now is due to cool, wet weather and the lack of uptake of phosphorus. Not from a low soil test level, but because environmental conditions have limited the corn plants uptake of P.
Other abiotic factors we are seeing in the area include soil compaction, poor rooting due to wet planting conditions and winter injury of landscape plants (boxwoods took a beating with the cold snap of December 2022 and December 2023). Knock Out roses look ragged now because of the cold winter injury, just that one negative 10-degree day in 2022 killed all my lovely Knock Out roses. Herbicide drift is another potential abiotic causal factor that requires careful investigation by the state chemist’s office.
have no real treatment to recommend, like the dead boxwood. Other instances may warrant a pest control treatment and suggested label recommendations. We don’t recommend home remedies that are not research based. Moles are not repelled by chewing gum, so I never recommend it. I did have a client tell me that it did if Wrigley’s gum was used. Again, no research, no recommendation.
Once we rule out an abiotic factor, then we evaluate possible biotic factors. The big player in biotic factors are fungal diseases like fusarium, blight and rust. About 85 percent of biotic factors are caused by fungus. Insect damage is always a challenge because so much of their damage is caused when we are asleep. Insects either chew on a plant or suck the sap. Cabbage riddled with chewing holes is often caused by the cabbage looper, the larval stage of the white moth hovering around your brassicas.
Once we identify the real villain, we can prosecute with an appropriate punishment. Sometimes we
The summer is young and plant problems will keep coming until frost. Contact me at the Purdue Extension-Owen County office at 812-829-5020. Or, contact me via cell phone at 812-236-6039. My email address is luzar@ purdue.edu. You can attach photos to either cell or email messages. If the problem is more challenging, we can arrange a site visit. Challenging issues may require submitting a sample to the Purdue Plant and Pest Diagnostic Lab for $11. I understand that some inquiries will not justify $11, so I will do my best to make identification. But an economically important crop with look-alike disease symptoms should certainly warrant the fee. I have to go now… I just received a photo of a weed called black medic!
THE OWEN NEWS 11 FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2024
Gosport Town-Wide YARD SALE Sat. June 15 “Nothinghauntsuslike thethingswedidn’tbuy atayardsale!”
Ramblings: It is strawberry time
By Annie Bright Guest Columnist
When I was in high school one of my favorite summer jobs was picking strawberries for a neighbor who sold them commercially. The neighbor paid us, and she fed us lunch after we had harvested many quarts of the ruby berries. Strawberries were a favorite of the indigenous people of the Americas. The people of Chile were cultivating them when the Spanish invaders arrived. Strawberries were an important part
of the culture of the people who lived in the eastern woodlands of North America.
The commercial strawberry sold today is a cultivar derived from a cross between Fragaria virginiana from eastern North America, and Fragaria chilioensis from Chile in South America.
Now there are many varieties grown around the world.
The wild strawberry still grows along the roadsides and in the meadows. That plant, Fragaria virginiana has a white bloom. The small heart shaped fruit is edible and quite tasty. I have a golden memory tucked away of my grandson, Dalton, and the tiny wild strawberry. My granddaughter, Elizabeth, Dalton and
I were driving north to visit my son, Jim. My daughter Suzi was with us. Traveling had become difficult for her at this time. We stopped at an ice cream shop for lunch in Monon, Indiana. We were enjoying lunch at a picnic table beside a field. Dalton, age six at the time, was wandering around in the field. I noticed he was popping something in his mouth. I got up to investigate, never thinking it might be something to eat. He had discovered a patch of wild strawberries and was devouring them as fast as he could pick them. Elizabeth asked the people in the ice cream shop if the meadow had been sprayed. They said
no. We watched him pick berries until red juice ran down his little chin. I think this was the happiest I had ever seen him. What prompted him to taste the first one? He would not eat the berries from the grocery. The happiness we all felt on this day is a gift I cherish. The native strawberry plant makes a nice ground cover. The berries are delicious, and the leaves can be dried to make tea. Birds gobble up the sweet fruits. There is a mock strawberry that comes from Asia. That plant has similar leaves but yellow blooms. It produces a fruit that is edible, but it is not as tasty.
In her book, “Braiding Sweetgrass,”
Robin Wall Kimmerer, devotes a chapter to strawberries. I found it interesting that she also picked strawberries for a neighbor as a teen. She explains that strawberries are a gift from the Earth, and according to their legends, strawberries grew from the heart of Sky Woman’s daughter after she died. The name in Potawatomi is ‘ode min’ or heart berry. She maintains that gifts from the Earth, like wild berries, come with an obligation for us to reciprocate.
Too many of us take the gifts of nature for granted and do nothing to ensure that there will be gifts for others in the future.
‘til next time, Annie
OCP seeks nominations for annual awards
Staff Report
Owen County Preservations (OCP) is seeking nominations for its Annual Preservation Award. Two recipients will be chosen.
The requirements for this award are as follows: Building must be a minimum of 75 years old.
GRANT| FROM PAGE 1
reporters of The Owen News are volunteers, along with having a journalism advisory board that is a resource and helps train volunteer correspondents.
“Our model is different, and it takes time to not only share and explain that model with people, but to also make the community used to it, and especially, in a landscape where there has been a lack of local news for almost two years,” she said.
This unique model of The Owen News
Must have wood siding or stone/brick exterior (no vinyl / aluminum siding).
Windows can be updated; they are not required to be lead glass. Restoration work must
is what stood out to OCCF, and is a part of the organization being awarded the grant.
“Led by their distinguished board of directors and an independent journalism advisory board, they developed a marketing and sustainability plan, researched how other communities are rebuilding local news and trained citizen journalists,” Janet Rummel, OCCF President and CEO, said via email. “Helping to build a local news outlet that has the trust of our community may be
have been completed within the last five years (interior or exterior).
Structure must be located in Owen County. Can be a residence, church, or business structure.
Photos of the restoration are required for the OCP
one of the Community Foundation’s most impactful grants in recent years.”
The Owen News Board describes the work on the model as “building the ship as [they’re] sailing.”
The board works to continuously learn and grow in delivering quality news to the Owen County community.
“I could go on for days about what happens to a community when you lose news, and when I say news, I mean quality, local news,” DeCriscio said. “Communities become
Annual Business meeting. Nominations should be emailed to rwhite47460@ gmail.com. The submission deadline is July 15, 2024. Please provide the physical address of the building being nominated to enable OCP officials to conduct a site visit.
more divided and no longer have a sense of community as a whole but then, statistically, local news is vital to the economic success of an area and impacts everything financially.”
With this grant, the board hopes to instill and gain more trust in the Owen County community.
Along with this grant, the nonprofit news organization receives funds to improve and grow from at-will donations, which keeps the paper free for pickup. Donations can be made through the OCCF to either a
long-term endowment fund or a fund that The Owen News has immediate access to, online at theowennews.org or via mail at 114 S. Main St., Spencer, Indiana 47460.
OCCF also granted La Campagne Ministries a $30,000 Large Impact Grant to prepare their facility for the launch of the Boys and Girls Club in Owen County. More information about this grant and the Boys and Girls Club will be highlighted in an upcoming story.
THE OWEN NEWS 12 FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2024
Trailing or Leading: Floods part of MYPath life
By Kyle Hannon Project Manager, MYPath Trail System
“What will you do when it floods?”
As we talk about the MYPath trail along the White River, we get asked that question. A lot.
The smart-alecky answer is, “Not hike that day.”
The longer answer is a little more complicated. People in Spencer and Owen County are serious about floods. They didn’t ask “if” it floods. They asked “when.” Flooding is an unpleasant part of life in the lowlands along the White River.
Locals have seen and splashed through many floods over the years. From the MYPath perspective, we used part of one of our grants to place a marker
on the corner of Wayne and Main commemorating the flood of 1913. If you visit that corner, you will see that our new sign is next to a limestone block that was the original high-water marker. If you look closely, you can make out some of the letters. The new sign says the same thing as the old marker.
This year, the heavy rains fell on April 10 and 11. This was not a massive rainstorm, considering Spencer’s history. But it was big to us. We were scheduled to lead a hike on April 12. This was not just any hike. This was an important hike with one of our key partners, McCormick’s Creek State Park.
Each year, McCormick’s Creek State Park hosts Wildflower Weekend. It is a fun event, featuring special wildflowerthemed hikes. Participants can find and learn about these natural beauties.
For the past few years, McCormick’s Creek has started its Wildflower Weekend with a Friday evening hike at MYPath. It is quite an honor to host this event at the MYPath Riverfront Trail. Last year, we were even able to host this hike when the park had to cancel the rest of the weekend events because of the devastating storm. We take our responsibility for hosting a Wildflower Weekend hike very seriously.
This year, I had been out to the trail to make sure we had ample wildflowers along the trail construction activities. Sure enough. We had many wild violets, phlox, buttercups and even some spring beauties. In addition, I was ready to talk about the Monarch Waystation near the trail and the eagles’ nest, across the river, but visible from MYPath. It was going to be fun.
Then, the rain came, and the river rose. And continued to rise.
Friday morning, I checked the river level. I’ve seen it higher. But it was not predicted to crest for several hours, a couple feet higher than it was that morning. Begrudgingly, I cancelled the Wildflower Weekend hike at MYPath.
It was a good thing. The flooding was worse than I had seen in the last three years. The water crawled over the bank and flooded the lower areas of the trail. Elliston Creek backed up, completely flooding the site for the new bridge and a significant portion of the New Meadow along River Road. Even the DNR boat launch on River Road was invisible under deep water. Back in the McCormick’s Creek, Wildflower Weekend continued as planned on Saturday and Sunday. Visitors
enjoyed beautiful wildflowers and informative hikes along the way. It was wet there, but nothing was under water. Kids could win a Smoky the Bear sticker for identifying wildflowers on a bingo card.
Though everybody was having fun in the park, my mind kept going back to MYPath. I was able to follow the flood levels from the National Weather Service. Water levels were slowly dropping. But not far, or fast, enough.
The next Wednesday, our Weekly Walkers ventured out to see the damage. There wasn’t really much damage. Water rose. Water receded. Some mud was left, a snapping turtle and fish that had ventured a little farther than they should have.
The next week, crews from Milestone Construction were back on site, preparing the shore along Elliston Creek
for a future bridge. The trail itself was fine. A dead fish was still there, dried out on the trail. A lot of tracks from a lot of animals made their mark across the mud. And wildflowers were blooming.
The following week our weekly walkers discovered that two other fish survived at least a week in a shallow mud puddle. Those fish were returned to the river.
So, the lesson of flooding is pretty much what we thought. We won’t hike that day. We will wait. The water will recede, nature will reappear and trail life will return to normal. Except for the fish.
Kyle Hannon is the project manager for the MYPath Trail System. He has served in many community development and trail connection roles throughout the state. On many weekends, he serves as an interpretive specialist at McCormick’s Creek State Park.
THE OWEN NEWS 13 FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2024
Driftwood Outdoors: Senate passes ACE Act
By Brandon Butler Guest ColumnistOur United States Senate has acted in favor of conservation by unanimously passing America’s Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act of 2024. This reauthorizes a dozen provisions to bolster the conservation of fish and wildlife, and the habitats they call home, across North America. The Act especially provides an important protection for America’s anglers.
The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies released a notification of applause for the Senate for passing the reauthorization. The unanimous consent shows complete support for some of the nation’s most successful conservation programs. Including, the National Fish Habitat Partnership (NFHP) and the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA).
“Thank you to Chairman Carper (D-DE), Ranking Member Capito (R-WV), and the many bipartisan cosponsors for championing the bill,” said Chuck Sykes, Director of the Alabama Division of
Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries and President of the Association. “The unanimous support for this legislation is exactly the bipartisan commitment we should see for conservation that enhances habitats, ensures healthy populations and provides greater opportunities for hunters and anglers.”
NAWCA was created in 1981. In the over 40 years since, the program has put more than 3,200 projects on the ground in North America. These projects have restored almost 32 million acres of wetlands. NFHP partnerships have led to over 1,500 successful conservation projects in all 50 states. These projects benefit anglers through protections of fish and aquatic habitats.
“NFHP continues to be one of the most
effective and highly leveraged conservation programs in the nation,” said Robert Boyles, Chair of the National Fish Habitat Board and Director of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.
“Reauthorization and increased resources for NFHP will mean even more voluntary projects between state, federal, NGO and private partners to reverse declining fish populations and enhance aquatic habitats.”
The ACE Reauthorization Act reauthorizes the National Fish Habitat Partnership (NFHP) and increases funding for the program to $10 million per year. NFHP is a voluntary, nonregulatory and locally driven program that has funded more than 1,300 on-the-ground aquatic habitat improvement
Outdoor Type: Dad, Thanks
of six boys, the youngest son being two. Those were tough times. Somehow the family scratched out a living from their acres and what they could raise, catch or kill. Mark, the two-year-old, always looked to my father, Clyde, as his father.
Dad and the good times fishing and hunting that we had.
I fondly recall the yearly trips we would take to Kentucky Lake in late May after school was out. Sometimes we caught fish, sometimes not so much, but the memories are still sweet.
My Dad had to grow up fast. His father, Oscar, suffered from chronic stomach problems. One day on the farm in southern Indiana “Ossie” started vomiting blood, and he couldn’t stop. No one could help him. The cause of death was a bleeding ulcer, a malady that would of course be treatable today. He was only 39, and my dad was 16, the oldest of a family
The irony was that Dad outlived all of his brothers, finally passing at 96 in 2011. The saying that the time one spends fishing doesn’t count against one’s life span might be true.
If he wasn’t laboring on the farm, Dad would often hike through the woods all the way down the valley behind his house to fish in Oil Creek. He probably started with catfish, sunfish and rock bass, with an eye to feeding his family. There might have been fishable farm ponds around in the early thirties, but he never mentioned them.
Rosemary Saddler lived with her parents further down on Oil Creek, so the narrow creek might have had some influence
projects since 2016.
“The ACE Reauthorization Act will bolster America’s $148 billion sportfishing economy through funding for programs such as the National Fish Habitat Partnership, Chesapeake Bay Program and the North American Wetlands Conservation Act,” said Mike Leonard, Vice President of Government Affairs at the American Sportfishing Association.
“We applaud Senators Carper, Capito and the 14 additional bipartisan cosponsors for their leadership on this issue and their commitment to enhancing angling opportunities for America’s 54.5 million anglers.”
This legislation has been a top priority of the Congressional Sportsman Foundation (CSF) since the ACE Act was first signed into law in 2020. Leading up to passage, CSF worked to secure bipartisan cosponsors to demonstrate the wide-spread support for this legislation. CSF also worked to secure modifications to the National Fish Habitat Conservation Through Partnerships (NFHP) language to improve the program’s ability to drive limited dollars to where
they are needed most.
“At a time when Congress appears to be extremely divided, we continue to see that issues of importance to sportsmen and women remain an area of strong bipartisan support,” said CSF President and CEO Jeff Crane. “The unanimous Senate passage of the ACE Reauthorization Act is a clear result of the bipartisan efforts of CSC Members Chairman Carper, Ranking Member Capito and the other leaders of this legislation to deliver wins for sportsmen and women across the nation.”
ACE includes many priorities for the sportfishing industry, including funding for fish habitat restoration, pollution reduction, invasive species management and the protection of traditional tackle. The Act will provide a five-year protection to ensure the EPA cannot be petitioned to regulate lead tackle under for five years.
See you down the trail….
For more Driftwood Outdoors, check out the podcast on driftwoodoutdoors.com or anywhere podcasts are streamed.
for all you did-well done
over what girl Dad became interested in. There was also something about pies that she baked, and she was cute as well.
They married in 1938 and opened a grocery/gas station in St. Croix in 1940, which Mom with various helpers operated while Dad taught school, interrupted only by WW2 and his Coast Guard service.
As a teenager, Dad scraped up enough money to buy his first guitar from the Sears and Roebuck catalog. He got hold of an instruction manual and learned to play, eventually joining local groups, including one from St. Meinrad, the Denning Family Band. They played mostly for weddings. Dad said he really liked the crowds over near Jasper, Ferdinand and St. Meinrad because the audience often paid them to keep playing well past their appointed time, with a generous tip involved.
Dad in his later years enjoyed composing music as well. He counted
as friends a fiddle player from New Albany named Sleepy Marlin. Sleepy appeared on TV with Randy Atcher’s WHAS program Hayloft Hoedown. He enjoyed quail hunting and would usually visit us sometime during the bird season. The Marlins music groups have carried on their father’s heritage.
Dad attended college, which was rare in those days. I’ve heard the story that his mother told him that he wasn’t much good for farm work, something about being too lazy for the manual labor involved. She said he might as well try to get his teacher’s license. After two years at a Danville college, he taught in several of the Perry County elementary schools, some of which were oneroom, and finally ended in the nice facility which is Perry Central Elementary near Leopold.
He didn’t have to haul wood or coal for the heating stove there. In retrospect, Dad most likely paved the way for my high school
English teaching career. I became his fishing and, to a lesser extent, hunting buddy at a young age. Most of my male relatives were outdoors guys, and I always looked up to them. Getting the limit of squirrels was a goal, but I seldom achieved that. I remember clearly Dad taking me and my new 20-gauge Remington Wingmaster threeshot pump to a woods when I was maybe 10. A squirrel was frantically escaping through the trees right over my head, and I blasted away three times, only slowing him down some. Dad’s double-barrel finished him off, but I claimed the squirrel as my own, my first kill, sort of. I recall taking it to my Grandma across the road and showing it off. She loved me, so she pretended to be impressed.
Quail were common around St. Croix, so Dad early on had a bird dog. Before I was of age, he had Lady, which he told me was a fine hunter. In my time we had
a big wide-ranging pointer called Pretty Boy that Dad had purchased from our dentist in Tell City. The doc said that frequently out of frustration he had nearly shot PB, so he offered him to Dad at a good price. My father could scope out a bargain. Cover was thick around our home, and PB was out of sight most of the time. He might be on a point for a good while and we’d never know it until we heard the whirr of wings and PB barking as if to say, “Where were you guys? What do I have to do? Shoot them for you?” That dog would aggravate the heck out of us with not coming to our calls or busting birds, but then he would make a nice point, hold it, find the dead bird and thus get back into our good graces. Still, fishing was our main thing, and we had a lot of good trips together over the years. I treasure those times and recall them often. Thanks for all you did for and with me, Dad. You were a good example for a young man to follow.
THE OWEN NEWS 14 FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2024
PHOTO SUBMITTED BY BRANDON BUTLER.
through The Exchange Club, Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF) and on the Spencer-Owen Community Schools (S-OCS) school board.
Allen served in the U.S. Air Force for 21 years where he was in charge of bunker controlled nuclear codes. During his service, he was awarded the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal and the Air Force Humanitarian Service Medal.
“Dave was part of the nuclear deterrent,” Darrell White, former CEO of the Owen County YMCA and friend of Allen, said. “I can’t think of anyone I would trust more to be in that position.”
White first met Allen at the YMCA, where he was an avid pickleball player, but they had the opportunity to get to know one another through The Exchange Club.
It was after his retirement from the Air Force that Allen started the JROTC program.
Tom Wallace, board chair of the OCCF and a retired OVHS teacher, recalled Allen creating the program.
“With soft eyes, warm smile and a firm handshake I was greeted and charmed by Col. David Allen,” Wallace said. “Each day with purpose, high expectations, patience and love Col. Allen would develop citizens of character that would be dedicated to serving their nation and community.”
Rhonda Schafer also taught with Allen and later served as principal of OVHS during Allen’s tenure.
“He thought of others before himself,” Schafer said. “He was just a great person to bounce ideas off of and get advice.”
She described how Allen advocated and taught students important life skills.
“He definitely wanted positive things for our students,” Schafer said, adding that Allen always thought about how every kid could succeed.
She also recalled a day when Allen, who was interested in genealogy, came into her office saying they were related. She was skeptical since her grandfather came from Germany and Allen was originally from Frankfort. But, Allen had learned that they were indeed distantly related through Schafer’s grandmother’s side.
“What a person to find out that you’re related to,” she said.
Ronda Stogsdill first met the Allen family when they began attending the church that Stogsdill attended. In addition to a friendship with Allen and his family,
Stogsdill served with Allen on the board of OCCF and The Exchange Club.
“The students he taught received a great blessing not only academically but in life. He planted so many seeds and shaped future leaders with values of integrity and discipline. He had a unique ability to inspire and guide young minds while encouraging them to believe in their own inner strengths and abilities,” she said. “I believe this role came so naturally to him because of what a wonderful father he was to Billy and Katie. He was always alongside them supporting them in their activities.”
Owen County Medal of Honor recipient Sammy L. Davis first met Allen when Allen invited him to speak at OVHS.
“We became brothers after that,” Davis said. “Our time together was always very special.”
Davis also spoke to the relationship Allen had with his students.
“He loved his students immensely and, from my experience, in talking with the students, they all loved him,” he said.
Fellow S-OCS board member Chad Cooper noted something Allen said while teaching the JROTC program, “He said in all his years of teaching, he’s found that kids don’t change; it’s the parents that do.”
Several of Allen’s former students have taken to Facebook to share the positive impact he had on their lives.
One such student was Donnie Clifford Jr. who offered the following to The Owen News, “I first met Col. Allen my freshman year in JROTC. From the first moment I met him, I could tell that he was a good man with a heart of gold. I also had the pleasure of having him in a business class senior year. In that year, he helped me with everything, from homework to talking about life; he was always there.”
Another was Robbie Bean, who met Allen during a lunchtime
recruiting period for the start of the JROTC program. Allen became a mentor and friend to Bean.
“He made it very clear that it didn’t matter how you were raised,” Bean said, adding that Allen said everyone has to make their own path. “He always made it known you had to work on yourself.”
Allen retired from OVHS in 2022 but took a break following his cancer diagnosis in 2018 and 2019 before returning to teach business classes.
It wasn’t long before Allen found other ways to create positive changes within the community.
“You would think that a cancer diagnosis would slow him down, but it did not. It just gave him a new perspective and outlook on life. He relished every moment and seized every opportunity to give back and improve the lives around him,” Stogsdill said.
Schafer said Allen struggled with the decision to retire in the first place.
“He was going to continue to make his mark,” Schafer said. “He made it his mission to still help others and make a difference.”
Serving on the scholarship committee and board for OCCF was one of the ways Allen continued to give back.
“Upon retirement Dave reached out to the community in which he lived. At the Owen County Community Foundation, Dave served once again with purpose, high expectations, patience and love on the Scholarship Committee and more recently the Board of Directors. Dave was devoted to enhancing the quality of life for all citizens of Owen County with the foresight and understanding that decisions made today will impact generations to come,” Wallace said. “All who encountered Col. Allen will take a piece of him with them as each of us serves all citizens of Owen County.”
S-OCS Board
President Derek Morgan also spoke to Allen’s lasting legacy within the community.
“Dave’s absence on our board, in our community and in the lives of his family will be difficult to overcome. Dave’s dedication to public service has made him a valued member of the S-OCS School Board these past two years,” Morgan said.
He worked with several of Allen’s cadets when Morgan served as the Jobs for America’s Graduates Specialist at OVHS.
“His unwavering commitment and genuine care left an indelible mark on everyone he taught, and I find solace knowing that this mark will ensure his legacy endures for years to come,” Morgan said. “My hope is that we are able to honor his memory by continuing the work he was so passionate about.”
Stogsdill recalled a time Allen went above and beyond to offer her support.
“The special thing about Dave is he did all of these things with a big heart. He had endured so much that he had a special perspective allowing him to see you,” she said. “We were at a [OCCF] retreat, and I stepped outside. Having recently lost my husband, I just needed a break. He came outside and sat on the patio and said, ‘You may not want to talk
right now, and you don’t have to. I don’t want you to be by yourself, and I’m willing to sit here with you and not say a word.’ I didn’t even know anybody saw me leave the room, let alone be willing to miss part of the session to make sure a friend knew they had a friend. But, that is Dave, the epitome of good and a true friend.”
Allen is survived by his wife Julie, his children Billy and Katie, daughterin-law Elizabeth and granddaughter Olivia. He is also survived by his sister Carlena “Jody” Davis.
“There is nothing he loved more than being a husband, father and papa. He also loved touching the lives of so many of you. I know so many of you have stories of my dad. Words are insufficient to describe how amazingly loved our dad was and there truly are no words to say in times like this. Just know we love and appreciate your prayers and support,” Katie Allen posted on Facebook when announcing her father’s passing.
Allen’s service took place Thursday, with visitation from 2 p.m. until the start of his service at 6:30 p.m. Coverage of the service will be made available online at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, Allen’s family asks for memorial donations to be made to OCCF in his memory to the Dave Allen Memorial Fund.
THE OWEN NEWS FRIDAY,
JUNE 7, 2024
FROM TOP: From left, Katie, Dave, Julie, Billy, Olivia and Elizabeth Allen pose for a photo. // Medal of Honor recipient Sammy L. Davis, Dave Allen and State Representative Bob Heaton pose for a photo after Allen received the Sagamore of the Wabash from Governor Eric Holcomb in 2021. Additional photos will be available online. PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY KATIE ALLEN.
ALLEN | FROM PAGE 1
“As simple a fairy tale as it is, it has a lot of specificity to it,” Wyatt Tucker, the Beast, said. “I feel like that is its greatest strength as well as a weakness when you’re trying to adapt it because everyone has all these preconceived notions about how the role should be played, what you should sound like, [and] what you look like. And I guess at the end of the day, I just respect everything that came — because of course that’s what we all grew up on, and we have a great admiration for it. But that’s a standard that I may or may not be able to achieve, realistically. So, it’s just all about doing our best trying to live up to that, it’s something that we aspire to, but not letting it overwhelm me.”
For Shaw the weight of the adaptation is personal.
“‘Beauty and the Beast’ was my life growing up. I wanted to be Belle more than anything in the world. I carried books around with me before I could read because I wanted to be Belle,” Shaw said. “I came into rehearsal, knowing exactly how I wanted to play the role, and also knowing that so much of Belle’s character is who I am, too. And I guess that sets me up to a very
different standard where I mostly want to put on the best show that I can for myself as opposed for a Disney-loving crowd.”
To Shaw, Belle showed that being different is a “badge of honor,” and to be given the opportunity to be Belle feels like her “dreams are coming true.”
Along with the different versions and adaptations of the characters, the cast has been given the opportunity to grow in new experiences.
Tucker, as the Beast, is in a new type of role that he hasn’t been in before. In prior performances of other shows, he has been casted as comedic or villainous roles.
A role like the Beast gives him a chance to try something new.
“I never imagined that I would be in this type of role and [have] the ability to flex my dramatic muscles and really try to get my way into this type of character,” Tucker said. “It’s been really, really fascinating.”
Turnbull is joyed by Shaw’s and Tucker’s portrayals of the characters, noting that Shaw sounds similar to Disney’s animated Belle and finds Tucker’s performance of the Beast brings a “different human element.”
“He’s not as ferocious. It’s almost like you can see that he’s a little defeated.
Legendary?
He understands that the curse is almost forever,” Turnbull said. “So it’s almost like he’s given up hope, and you can see that. So, I think he’s taking — from my standpoint as director witnessing how they’re playing — it seems like that, and I think that’s a refreshing take.”
OCCT will offer four chances for the community to be their guest with the performances taking place at Owen Valley High School’s Auditorium June 7 at 7 p.m., June 8 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and June 9 at 2 p.m. Ticket prices are $15 for adults, $10 for students, $7 for children 12 and younger, and 2-year-olds and younger are free.
FROM TOP: From left, Beth Kyle as Mrs. Potts, Michael Grubb as Lumière and Natasha Shaw as Belle, in the Beast’s Castle for Owen County Civic Theatre’s production of “Beauty and the Beast” rehearse a scene during a May practice. // Natasha Shaw, who portrays Belle in Owen County Civic Theatre’s production of “Beauty and the Beast,” poses in Belle’s blue dress. Shaw designed and made the dress with historical accuracy in mind. The dress took Shaw a month to complete. Shaw is making Belle’s iconic yellow dress as well. HANNAH AMOS | THE OWEN NEWS
THE OWEN NEWS 16 FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2024 Go to VentFest.org for tickets and more info! What... is
is one-of-a-kind in the world? Creates happy lifetime memories? features two of the greatest ventriloquists of all-time? is Only located in Spencer, Indiana? Starring Ronn Lucas and Willie Tyler! 2024’s VentFest, The International Ventriloquism & Arts Festival June 28-30, 2024 Tivoli Theater, Spencer, Indiana
OCCT| FROM PAGE 8