The Owen News -- June 6, 2025 (Vol. 2, Issue 6)

Warner selected to replace Burton

By Nicole DeCriscio Executive Editor

Norm Warner was selected by the Owen County Republican Party to fill the seat vacated by previous commissioner Gary Burton. Warner will represent district one for the remainder of the term which runs through 2026.

Each candidate was given five minutes to introduce themselves and then answer questions from the precinct committeemen. In addition to Warner, Barron Barnett, John

Hunter, Jeff McMillian, Bob Morris and Bret Stutsman also submitted their names to be considered for the vacant spot.

“I will say one thing, when we went to buy our first house, I got a second job because that was the only way I could come up with to generate more capital to put our down payment down. And that’s kind of how I operate,” Warner began.

Warner noted that the commissioners do not have a budgetary role in county government.

“But they’re overseeing everything, and they see everything,” Warner said. “I’ve spent.. Since 2019 immersing myself in what goes on in the county, how this affects that, and one thing I can tell you is it’s all interconnected.”

Warner said that the county desperately needs a human resources (HR) professional.

He also said he is concerned with the changes at the state level that will result in Owen County

WARNER | PAGE 6

Spencer Police Chief to retire

By Travis Curry Senior Correspondent

Veteran law enforcement officer Richard “Rich” Foutch recently announced his plans to retire at the end of June. Foutch has served as Chief of Police for the Spencer Police Department (SPD) for 17 years.

Foutch announced his intention to retire in a letter presented to the Spencer Town Council during its May 19 public meeting.

The letter was read aloud by SPD Sergeant Terry Sips at the request of Foutch, who indicated he would likely be overcome with emotion if he

RETIRE | PAGE 18

SPD Chief of Police Richard Foutch recently announced his intention to retire on June 28, capping a 35-year career in law enforcement. TRAVIS CURRY | THE OWEN NEWS

Courthouse dome, roof repairs underway

ByTravis Curry Senior Correspondent

Nearly two years after the dome and roof of the historic Owen County Courthouse in Spencer were damaged by large hail, work has begun to return the structure to its original copper glory.

OVHS student arrested

By Travis Curry Senior Correspondent

An 18-year-old Owen Valley High School student was arrested May 13 after authorities discovered a handgun in his vehicle parked in the student parking lot. Jordan A. Barley of Spencer is charged with two felony counts of possession of a firearm on school property.

ARRESTED | PAGE 19

delayed again

By Travis Curry Senior Correspondent

The murder trial for Quentin Lamont Porter, Jr., accused of the July 2024 shooting death of 23-yearold Malik Darea Sims, has been rescheduled again. Although originally set to get underway on Jan. 21, the trial was delayed until May 12.

TRIAL | PAGE 6

UDO sent to commissioners Staff Report

The Owen County Plan Commission sent the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to the Owen County Commissioners during their May meeting. The plan commission gave it an unfavorable recommendation.

According to Owen County Commissioner Sam Hobbs, the work is being completed by Precision Contracting and will include a new copper exterior for the dome and a new rubber membrane for the courthouse’s flat roof. Additionally, the REPAIRS | PAGE 5 2024 murder suspect’s trial

Incoming commissioner Norm Warner is sworn in by County Clerk Diane Stutsman. Warner was caucused in on May 29 to replace former commissioner Gary Burton who resigned last month.

NICOLE DECRISCIO | THE OWEN NEWS

Crewmen with Precision Contracting work to replace the copper exterior of the Owen County Courthouse dome. The cornerstone for the Classical Revival-style building was laid on May 4, 1910. TRAVIS CURRY | THE OWEN NEWS

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Obituaries

John Joseph Fuhs, 73, of Spencer, passed away on May 29, 2025, surrounded by his family Nancy (Dudine) , Emily, and Kristen. John was born on July 14, 1951, to Eddie and Bertha (Beckman) Fuhs and grew up in Jasper, where he met his wife of 50 years. After graduation he attended Indiana University, Bloomington, where he received his law degree. John and Nancy then moved to Spencer, where he practiced law up until his death.

John was a

beloved husband, father, grandfather, and community member. Throughout his life he was a friend, a mentor, a track official, a coach, a gardener, and a fierce tennis competitor. He was also instrumental in various community activities raising funds for Bikes for Tykes, selling Christmas trees for the Spencer Exchange Club, and running a Casting Kids contest for young kids interested in fishing.

John believed if you weren’t five minutes early, you were late. His best days were spent baking cookies or fishing, with Nancy, his kids, or his grandkids by his side. He was a lifelong New York Yankees fan and cheered passionately for the Indiana Hoosiers. He was a “girl dad”

before being a girl dad became popular, wholeheartedly supporting Emily and Kristen’s activities, whether it was being a timer on the track or video-taping games. His grandkids adored his playful antics and silly sense of humor.

John was a charter member of the Spencer Exchange Club; he was also a member of Knights of Pythias, the Owen County Garden Club, and St. Jude’s Catholic Church. He was a track and crosscountry official for the IHSAA, NCAA, and USATF, working everything from middle school and collegiate meets to national championships. He is survived by his wife, Nancy; his daughters, Emily (Charles) Nestel of Sarasota, Fla., Kristen (Benjamin) Wells of Greencastle; and

Government Meeting Calendar

June 9

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

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

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

June 10

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

June 12

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

June 16

Owen County Public Library Board, 5 p.m. in the OCPL Vault Room, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer.

Spencer Town Council, 6 p.m. at the Spencer Municipal Building, 90 N. West St., Spencer.

June 17

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

Owen County Advisory Plan Commission, 6:30 p.m. in the Commissioners Room of the Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.

June 19

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

June 24

Gosport Town Council,

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

July 3

Owen County Board of Commissioners, 9 a.m. in the Commissioners Room of the

his grandchildren, Charley, Lincoln, Brooklyn, Britain, and Abbey. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eddie and Bertha; and his sister, Betty.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Jude’s Catholic Church on Friday, June 13, at 2 p.m., and a Celebration of Life will follow at the Spencer United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 4 to 6 p.m., with sharing of memories at 4:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Owen County Community Foundation under the John J. Fuhs Memorial Fund. West & Parrish & Pedigo Funeral Home have been entrusted with the arrangements. Online condolences may be made to the family at westparrishpedigo. com.

Owen County Courthouse, 60 S. Main St., Spencer.

July 4

Owen County Courthouse closed in observance of Independence Day.

THE OWEN NEWS

Community Events Calendar

June 6

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

Pop Up Pollinator Garden Workshop, 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Purdue Extension-Owen County office, 180 S. Washington St., Spencer. Learn how to plant a pollinator garden and take part in creating one yourself.

10th Annual Sweet Owen Flea, noon to 6 p.m. at the Owen County Fairgrounds in Spencer.

June 7

Town of Spencer Trash Cleanup Day, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dumpsters will be available at 5 N. Short St. (former Riddle Tractor Sales building) in Spencer. Please note this free service is exclusively open to residents of the town of Spencer. Early closure may occur if dumpsters fill up before the scheduled end time. Tires, paint and electronics will not be accepted.

10th Annual Sweet Owen Flea, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Owen County Fairgrounds in Spencer.

Owen County Farmers’ Market, 8:30 a.m. to noon, 459 W. Morgan St., Spencer. Live music by West Fork Revival. Live music by the Eastern Wing Band (EWB), 8 to 11 p.m. at the Gosport VFW Post 7850, 159 E. Main St., Gosport.

June 8

Sixth Annual Vandalia Community Preservation Association Strawberry Fest, 2 to 4:30 p.m. in Vandalia. Strawberry shortcake will be served in the historic schoolhouse, with live music to be featured in the chapel. The cost of the event is $12 for adults and $5 for children aged 10 and under.

June 9

Jolly Homemakers meeting, 1 p.m. at the Freedom Community Center, 5558 Freedom-Arney Rd., Freedom.

June 9 to 12

True North Vacation Bible School, 6 to 8:30 p.m. nightly at the Soul Harvest Church, 14 Crosswinds Dr., Cloverdale. To register or to learn more, visit shc4me.com.

June 9 to 13

Wonder Junction Vacation Bible School, 5:30 to 8 p.m. nightly at Pleasant Hill Community Church, 6261 Pleasant Hill Rd., Spencer. Open to children in grades preschool to eighth grade. Register online at pleasanthillcc. myanswers.com/2025/. For more information, text 317-201-5991.

June 10

Gosport Farmers’ Market, 3 to 6 p.m. in the parking lot of the Lighthouse Fellowship Church, 5392 S.R. 67, Gosport. Weather permitting.

Braysville Homemakers meeting, 5:30 p.m. in the upstairs meeting room at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Elevator access is available. For more information, call 812-829-5020.

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

June 11

Free showing of “IF,” 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Sponsored by

the Spencer United Methodist Church.

Harrison Homemakers meeting, noon at the Purdue Extension-Owen County office, 180 S. Washington St., Spencer.

June 12

Owen County Homesteaders meeting, 4 to 6 p.m. at the Purdue Extension-Owen County office, 180 S. Washington St., Spencer.

Owen County Chamber of Commerce Grill and Chill event, 4:30 to 6 p.m., 120 S. Main St., Spencer. Take time after work to just “chill” and have a burger and a drink at the OCCC Fiber Garden. Sponsored by Coffman Proactive CPA Services, LLC.

White River Beekeepers meeting, 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the Owen County Public Library, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer. Current and prospective beekeepers are welcome to attend.

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

June 13

Boys & Girls Club of Owen County Lunch & Learn, noon to 1 p.m. at The Exchange, 114 S. Main St., Spencer. Join CEO Leslie Abshier for a onehour conversation as she shares in-depth information about the club. Lunch will be provided. RSVP to bhamilton@ bgcbloomington.org or 812-3327849.

Flatwoods Park Movie Night, 7:30 p.m. at 9499 Flatwoods Rd., Gosport. Free showing of “Mufasa: The Lion King.” Drinks and snacks will be provided. The movie begins at dusk. Hosted by the Monroe County Library and Monroe County Parks & Recreation.

June 14

Annual Gosport Town-Wide Yard Sale in the community of Gosport.

Owen County Farmers’ Market, 8:30 a.m. to noon, 459 W. Morgan St., Spencer. Live music by Gravy Bird.

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

C.A.R.E. cornhole tournament and family cookout, 10 a.m. at the Owen County Fairgrounds, 364 S. East St., Spencer. Cornhole teams will pair police officers with those actively involved in recovery. Sign-up online at https://forms.gle/ yN4iKej9oXTeqELy5. Free.

Owen County Honor Guard Flag Retirement Ceremony, 1 p.m. at the Owen County Veterans Park. The park is located at the north end of Washington Street, north of Spencer Elementary School. Free hotdogs and hamburgers will be served after the ceremony.

Friends of Lieber SRA ice cream social, 6 to 8 p.m. at Cagles Mill Lake, 1317 W. Lieber Rd., Cloverdale.

Solomon’s Riders Charity Ride to benefit the Owen County Veterans Association. Cost is $20 per bike and $10 per rider. Raffles and food options available. For details, contact Todd Barrow (812) 605-2224.

June 16 to 19

Starlight Airlines Vacation Bible School, 6 to 8:15 p.m. nightly at the Freedom Church of the Nazarene, 5505 Jefferson St., Freedom. Open to children age three through grade six (grade just completed). Register online prior to the event or in-person during the event.

Visit vbsmate.com/events/ FreedomNazarene/30157.

June 17

Parents Forever Workshop, 1 to 5 p.m. at the Purdue Extension-Owen County office, 180 S. Washington St., Spencer. This research-based program helps parents navigate family transitions in a healthy way. For more information, call 812-8295020.

Gosport Farmers’ Market, 3 to 6 p.m. in the parking lot of the Lighthouse Fellowship Church, 5392 S.R. 67, Gosport. Weather permitting. Owen County Democratic Party monthly meeting, 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Democrat Headquarters, 152 E. Jefferson St., Spencer. “Coffee and Conversation” begins at 6 p.m., with the meeting starting at 6:30 p.m. All are welcome.

June 18

Free showing of “The Garfield Movie,” 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Sponsored by the Owen County Health Department. Gingerbread Creation Workshop, 2 to 4 p.m. at the Purdue Extension-Owen County office, 180 S. Washington St., Spencer. For more information, call 812-829-5020.

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

June 19

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

Calico Homemakers meeting, 4 p.m. Meetings are held at a different restaurant each month. For more information, call 812829-5020.

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

June 21

Owen County Farmers’ Market, 8:30 a.m. to noon, 459 W. Morgan St., Spencer. Live music by Happy Accident Duo.

Friends of McCormick’s Creek State Park pancake breakfast, 8:30 to 10 a.m. at Hillcrest Shelter inside MCSP. Proceeds will support the turtle tank replacement effort at Canyon Inn.

Fifth Annual Serving Owen County Together, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the front parking lot of the OVMS/OVHS complex. Free items including furniture, non-perishable food, hygiene products, clothing, infant supplies, and more. The rain date is June 28.

Live music by Aaron Grubb, featuring the greatest hits of John Denver, 2 p.m. at the amphitheater inside McCormick’s Creek State Park. Park admission fees apply.

Annual Gosport United Methodist Church fish fry, 3 to 7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at the corner of Seventh and North streets, Gosport. Alaskan white fish, two sides, and a drink. Cost is $10 for adults. Children’s meals will be available.

June 23

The Owen News volunteer callout and information meeting, 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Owen County Community Foundation. Learn more about the different ways you can be involved with The Owen News. From helping run our booth at local festivals to serving as a correspondent, there’s something for everyone. Light refreshments provided.

June 24

Digital Skills Class, 10 to 11 a.m. at the Purdue ExtensionOwen County office, 180 S. Washington St., Spencer. This class will help you build confidence online. Learn how to navigate the digital world safely, communicate effectively, and boost your everyday computer skills. For more information, call 812-829-5020.

Gosport Farmers’ Market, 3 to 6 p.m. in the parking lot of the Lighthouse Fellowship Church, 5392 S.R. 67, Gosport. Weather permitting.

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

June 25

Free showing of “Despicable Me 4,” 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Sponsored by the Spencer Presbyterian Church.

June 27

Garden Lunch and Learn, noon to 1 p.m. at the Purdue Extension-Owen County office, 180 S. Washington St., Spencer. For more information, call 812829-5020.

Pressure Canning Program, 1 to 4 p.m. at the Greene County Fairgrounds. Preserve your summer produce safely. Join Purdue Extension for this handson pressure canning class. Preregistration required: https:// cvent.me/NzQE9n.

June 28

Owen County Farmers’ Market, 8:30 a.m. to noon, 459 W. Morgan St., Spencer. Live music by Aaron Will. Live music by Walker & Tesmer Music, 8 to 11 p.m. at the Gosport VFW Post 7850, 159 E. Main St., Gosport.

July 1

Gosport Farmers’ Market, 3 to 6 p.m. in the parking lot of the Lighthouse Fellowship Church, 5392 S.R. 67, Gosport. Weather permitting.

July 2

Free showing of “Harold and the Purple Crayon,” 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Historic Tivoli Theatre, 24 N. Washington St., Spencer. Sponsored by the Spencer United Methodist Church.

July 3

Friends of McCormick’s Creek State Park board meeting, 4 p.m. in the Program Room inside the MCSP Nature Center. Open to the public. Gosport Lions Club meeting, 6:30 p.m. at the Gosport Community Building, 301 N. Ninth St., Gosport. Coal City Crime Watching meeting, 7 p.m. at the Jefferson Baptist Church, 4019 Main St., Coal City. Open to the public.

July 5

Annual Owen County fireworks display at Tier 10 Music & Sports Park, 2499 S.R. 43S, Spencer. Free live music from 6 to 10 p.m. Fireworks display to follow at 10 p.m.

Anne KirchgraberMcKee

Anne Berdine Kirchgraber McKee died peacefully in her home on 15 May 2025 with family caregivers at her side. She was the Youth Services Director at the Owen County Public Library, where she worked for over

Jail Bookings

EDITOR’S NOTE: Booking information is provided by the Owen County Security Center. These are preliminary charges and may change as cases are processed through the circuit court system. To follow a court case, search the state’s court records at mycase.in.gov. This information is public record. All people are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

4-30

Michael Collett, 38, Cloverdale, preliminary charge of resisting law enforcement. Arrested by Owen County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) Sergeant Torrey Wallace.

5-1

David Mitchell, 26, Poland, IN, preliminary charges of assisting a criminal and false informing. OCSD Sergeant Torrey Wallace was the arresting officer.

5-2

Larry Tussey, Jr., 48, Spencer, unlawful possession of a syringe and two counts of probation violation. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Brennan Clark.

5-3

Erazo EdgardoAlbin, 41, Indianapolis, preliminary charge of failure to appear. OCSD Deputy Brennan Clark was the arresting officer. Robin Stone, 37, Indianapolis, preliminary charge of driving while suspended with a prior charge. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Brennan Clark. Paul Maegerlein, Jr., 54, Spencer, preliminary charges of failure to appear and seven counts of cruelty to an animal. OCSD Deputy Brennan Clark was the arresting officer.

5-7

Jeremy Walker, 47, Bowling Green, preliminary charges of failure to appear (three counts), theft (two counts), driving while suspended with a prior charge, and conversion. Arrested by Spencer Police Department (SPD) officer Ryan Combs.

20 years; a generation of Owen County youth also knew her from her work in Spencer Elementary’s former courtyard. Anne grew up in Belleville, Illinois, where she attended Althoff Catholic High School. She earned her BA at Earlham College, Indiana, and her MLS from Indiana State University. She was the best Mum to children who will remember her with love: Bethany E. Qualls (Martin Maaloumi) of Caen, France, Michael A. DeGroff-Kirchgraber (Jane Andreasen) of El Cerrito, California, and Haley N. Walker of Bloomington, with

Edward Deem, 33, Spencer, preliminary charges of battery and disorderly conduct. SPD Sergeant Terry Sips was the arresting officer. Tyler Merriman, 26, Freedom, preliminary charges of possession of methamphetamine, violation of home detention, driving while suspended with a prior charge, resisting law enforcement, probation violation, and possession of marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Jordan Hardey. Ashley Hodge, 31, Spencer, preliminary charge of public intoxication. OCSD Lieutenant Clint Wampler was the arresting officer.

5-8

Jorge-Isaac ZeasJuarez, 23, Terre Haute, preliminary charges of public intoxication, driving without a license, failure to appear, and illegal possession, consumption or transportation of alcohol by a minor. Arrested by OCSD Major William Snodgrass.

5-10

Isaac Inman, 18, Spencer, preliminary charges of operating while intoxicated and illegal possession, consumption, or transportation of alcohol by a minor. OCSD Deputy Riley Pardue was the arresting officer. Garret Postell, 27, Spencer, preliminary charges of commitment order, resting law enforcement (two counts), auto theft (two counts), escape, probation violation, and possession of methamphetamine. Arrested by OCSD Major William Snodgrass.

5-11

Dylan Lutz, 28, Gosport, preliminary charges of intimidation, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of paraphernalia. OCSD K9 Deputy Charles Hallam was the arresting officer.

5-13

Jordan Barley, 18, Spencer, preliminary

grandchildren Taylor Walker and Aaron Walker. On 1 July 1994 she married Dennis Arthur McKee, who passed away 15 January 2025. Anne was a caregiver, teacher, book recommender, and even an honorary Mum to many with whom she crossed paths, both two-legged and fourlegged. She always had a story to tell, and a supportive ear to lend. She was preceded in death by her mother, Nancy Kirchgraber; father, Robert B. Kirchgraber; as well as her aunts, Catherine Merrill and Mildred “Mickey” Brumfield. She leaves behind

charge of possession of firearms on school property or a school bus. Arrested by OCSD Deputy William Browne.

Autumn Minnick, 34, Coal City, preliminary charge of domestic battery. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Riley Pardue.

5-14

Ryan Walden, 27, Freedom, preliminary charges of driving while suspended with a prior charge, and failure to appear. OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller was the arresting officer.

Darrick Freeman, 35, Spencer, preliminary charges of probation violation, driving while suspended with a prior charge, and leaving the scene of an accident. Arrested by OCSD Major William Snodgrass.

5-15

Shawn Sondergard, 43, Paragon, preliminary charges of probation violation and resisting law enforcement. OCSD Deputy Riley Pardue was the arresting officer.

Victor Holding, 28, New Albany, IN, preliminary charges of intimidation (two counts), robbery, and probation violation. SPD officer Bryce Brock was the arresting officer.

Sara Whitaker, 36, Spencer, preliminary charges of possession of a controlled substance, and violation of stay-athome order. Arrested by SPD officer Chester Richardson.

Eric Blackwell, 40, Bloomington, preliminary charges of false informing, speeding, failure to register a motorized vehicle, driving while suspended, and failure to appear. OCSD Major William Snodgrass was the arresting officer.

Shane Swafford, 46, Elwood, IN, two preliminary charges of nonsupport of a child. Arrested by OCSD Major William Snodgrass.

5-16

Kirsten Anderson, 39, Cloverdale, preliminary charge of public intoxication. OCSD

one sister, Gerilynn Warner (Michael); and one brother, Stephan Kirchgraber (Rosa D’Imperio). She is also survived by niece, Yuki Furusawa (Kota); and three great-nieces. Animals in need always seemed to find her, including members of her dog pack already for waiting on the other side – Luna, Patience, Kahlua, Tenzing, Fred, Ginger, Owen, Sheba, Ghost, Sugardog, Zoe, Genevieve – and an array of cats, rabbits, pigs, sheep, and goats. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Anne’s name to WildCare Inc, a non-profit supporting

Lieutenant Clint Wampler was the arresting officer.

5-17

Heath Bennett, 30, Cloverdale, preliminary charge of child molesting. Arrested by OCSD Sergeant Brandon Gasparovic.

5-19

Christopher Johnson, 47, Poland, IN, preliminary charges of failure to appear, criminal mischief, and resisting law enforcement (two counts). OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller was the arresting officer.

5-21

James Casteel, Jr., 56, Spencer, preliminary charges of criminal trespass, resisting law enforcement, and public intoxication. Arrested by SPD officer Ben Muncie.

5-22

Heather RainsMaxwell, 36, Clayton, IN, preliminary charges of failure to appear, unlawful possession of a syringe, possession of methamphetamine, driving while suspended with a prior charge, and possession of paraphernalia. OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller was the arresting officer. Joshua Stahl, 43, Spencer, preliminary charges of resisting law enforcement, domestic battery, strangulation, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of paraphernalia. OCSD K9 Deputy Charles Hallam was the arresting officer. Zachary Garrison, 27, Heltonville, IN, preliminary charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of paraphernalia. Arrested by OCSD Deputy Riley Pardue.

5-25

Michael Zook, 41, Terre Haute, preliminary charge of auto theft. SPD officer Ryan Combs was the arresting officer. David Meadows, 50, Freedom, preliminary charge of operating with a blood alcohol content of .08 to .14. Arrested by SPD officer EJ Westgate.

Indiana wildlife, via https://wildcareinc.org/ support-us/donations/, or the Owen County Public Library, Attn: Youth Services / Anne McKee Memorial, 10 S. Montgomery St., Spencer, Indiana, 47460.

A celebration of Anne’s life will be held in Owen County in May 2026. In addition, a private family burial will be held at Riverside Cemetery in Spencer, Indiana at a later date. Condolences may be sent to West & Parrish & Pedigo Funeral Home, 105 North Montgomery Street, Spencer, Indiana 47460 or online at westparrishpedigo.com.

5-26

Joshua Reynolds, 48, Gosport, preliminary charges of operating while intoxicated and refusal of a chemical test. OCSD Deputy William Browne was the arresting officer.

5-28

Philip Reed, 45, Cloverdale, preliminary charge of operating a motor vehicle after forfeiture of license for life. Arrested by OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller. Mark Brewer, 38, Gosport, preliminary charge of writ of attachment. OCSD Sergeant Torrey Wallace was the arresting officer.

5-29

Mitchel Cunningham, 41, Gosport, preliminary charges of sex offender registration violation, unlawful entry by a serious sex offender (two counts), and pretrial release violation. Arrested by OCSD K9 Deputy Charles Hallam. Roy Kelly, 54, Spencer, preliminary charges of nonsupport of child, probation violation, and failure to appear. Indiana Conservation Officer Caleb Hutchison was the arresting officer.

6-2

Calvin Wall, 32, Spencer, preliminary charges of theft and probation violation. Arrested by OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller. Jared Kindred, 26, Spencer, preliminary charges of possession of methamphetamine and probation violation. OCSD Special Deputy Levi Miller was the arresting officer. Brooke Neal, 46, Unionville, IN, preliminary charges of failure to appear and driving while suspended with a prior charge. Arrested by SPD officer Bryce Brock.

6-3

Taylor Gilbert, 27, Indianapolis, preliminary charge of sexual misconduct with a minor. OCSD Deputy Elijah Volrich was the arresting officer.

The gift that gives back: How to create a lasting legacy with a charitable gift annuity

Press Release

What if your generous gift to the community could also provide you—or someone you love— with a steady stream of income for life?

With a charitable gift annuity (CGA) through the Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF), that vision becomes a reality.

A CGA is a unique giving tool that allows you to support the future of Owen County while receiving lifetime annuity payments and immediate tax benefits. It’s one of the simplest ways to leave a legacy that lasts far beyond your lifetime.

How does it work?

When you establish a charitable gift annuity, you make a one-time gift of $10,000 or more to

OCCF—using cash, appreciated securities or other assets. In return, OCCF agrees to pay a fixed annuity to you (and optionally, a second annuitant) for the rest of your life. Upon your passing, the remaining balance— called the residuum— is used to support charitable causes close to your heart. You can use your gift to contribute to an existing fund, or create a new fund to support a specific field of interest, such as education, health or the arts. You decide how your legacy will live on.

Key benefits of a CGA

Lifetime income: You and/or a loved one receive reliable annuity payments for life. Tax deduction: You receive an immediate charitable deduction for part of your gift. Partial tax-free

payments: A portion of your annuity income may be tax-free.

Avoid capital gains tax: If you fund the CGA with appreciated assets, you bypass capital gains tax.

Simple setup: The agreement is a straightforward contract—no legal maze to navigate.

Community impact: Your gift ultimately strengthens Owen County for generations to come.

Who should consider a CGA?

A charitable gift annuity might be right for you if:

You are 60 or older and want a secure, lifelong income stream.

You want to create a meaningful legacy in Owen County.

You have cash or assets of $10,000 or more to contribute.

You want to simplify

your estate planning while maximizing impact.

Backed by community strength

When you invest in a CGA through OCCF, your gift is supported by the financial foundation of a trusted institution.

Since 1994, OCCF has managed over $15 million in permanent assets, ensuring every gift is stewarded with integrity and care.

Let’s start the conversation Interested in learning more about creating a charitable gift annuity? OCCF works closely with you and your professional advisor to design a CGA that aligns with your goals.

Contact Janet Rummel, President & CEO of OCCF, at 812829-1725 or email ceo@owencountycf.

org. You can also find more information about the Owen County Community Foundation at owencountycf.org.

About the Owen County Community Foundation

The Owen County Community Foundation (OCCF) is a public charity founded in 1994 as a resource to connect caring individuals with causes they support, enabling them to make a charitable impact on the community. Since its founding, the OCCF has been able to grant more than $12.3 million to area nonprofit and charitable organizations in our community. The OCCF is committed to enhancing the quality of life for all citizens of Owen County, now and for generations to come. For more information, visit owencounty.org or call 812-829-1725.

International Ventriloquism and Arts Festival returns

Press Release

The stage is set for an unforgettable weekend of worldclass comedy, artistry and theatrical magic as VentFest 2025, the International Ventriloquism and Arts Festival, returns to Owen County from June 27 to 29.

Hosted at the Historic Tivoli

Theatre, this threeday celebration of the ventriloquial arts features a stellar cast of internationally renowned performers, including headliners Darren Carr, Todd Oliver, Lynn Trefzger, Mike Hemmelgarn, Melissa Graham, Maegan Hall, Stephen Knowles, and two surprise

guests.

Now in its latest installment, VentFest continues its mission of showcasing the very best in ventriloquism and live entertainment while fostering creativity, community, and joy.

Event Schedule: June 27 –Opening night performance, 7

p.m., admission

$15. Featuring: Maegan Hall, Melissa Graham, Mike Hemmelgarn, Darren Carr, Todd Oliver.

June 28 – Kid’s show – fun for the whole family, 2 p.m., admission $5. Featuring: Melissa Graham, Mike Hemmelgarn, and Stephen Knowles.

Evening showcase, 7 p.m., admission $20. Featuring: Maegan Hall, Stephen

Knowles, Lynn Trefzger, and Darren Carr.

June 29 – Gala finale, a grand celebration of talent, 2:30 p.m., admission $30. Featuring: Melissa Graham, Maegan Hall, Mike Hemmelgarn, Todd Oliver, Stephen Knowles, Darren Carr, and Lynn Trefzger.

“This year’s lineup brings together some of the best ventriloquists from

frames on the dome will be repaired, painted, and permanent coverings installed to protect the dome’s original windows from the elements of weather.

around the globe,” said Steve Withem, VentFest organizer. “VentFest 2025 promises something for everyone— whether you’re a longtime fan or brand new to the art form.”

Tickets are available now and can be purchased online at spencertivoli. org/tickets. Seating is limited, so early reservations are encouraged.

The project, financed via a county insurance claim, is tentatively scheduled for completion in early September, at which time the north parking lot of the courthouse will be reopened.

Food Inspections

Routine food inspections were conducted by the Owen County Health Department during the month of May 2025. Reported below are the critical and non-critical comments left for these establishments:

4-28 Sparrows, LLC, food truck. Pre-operational inspection. No violations. Speeds New Hope Dragway, 7848 Vilas Rd., Spencer. Concession stands. Pre-operational inspection. No violations.

5-10

Twisted Treats, LLC, food truck. Routine inspection. No violations. The Rolling Stoves, food truck. Routine inspection. No violations. Mr. Taco, food truck. Routine inspection. No violations.

Gather Around BBQ, food truck. Routine inspection. No violations. Fried on Q, food truck. Routine inspection. No violations.

5-13

Gosport Elementary School, 201 N. Ninth St., Gosport. Routine inspection. No violations.

TRIAL | FROM PAGE 1

On May 5, however, a hearing was held in the Owen County Circuit Court I on a motion for continuance filed by the defense. Arguments from both sides were heard, with the court ultimately resetting the start date again, this time to Aug. 4 at 9 a.m.

Porter remains in custody without bond at the Owen County Security Center pending the upcoming trial by jury. The court has allotted eight days for the trial, excluding Saturday and Sunday.

More in-depth coverage of the case was published in the August 2024 issue of The Owen News . The full article can be accessed on our website.

Porter did appear in the

UDO | FROM PAGE 1

And the commissioners were slated to either accept or reject the UDO as it is during their June 5 meeting.

However, on June 3, County Councilwoman Polly Chesser posted on her official Facebook page, “Because of failure to hold a public hearing on the UDO by the planning commission,

5-16

McCormick’s Creek Elementary School, 1601 W. Flatwoods Rd., Spencer. Routine inspection. One noncritical violation. Functionality of light bulbs and protective shielding. Reinstall overhead light cover in the walk-in fridge and walk-in freezer. Patricksburg Elementary School, 9883 S.R. 246, Patricksburg. Routine inspection. No violations.

5-17

R&R Wood Fired Pizza, food tent. Routine inspection. One noncritical violation. Visible

Owen Circuit Court I on May 12 and May 13 alongside his attorney Jacob Fish to face related but separate charges of escape and battery against a public safety official.

Jury selection in this case began and concluded on day one of the two-day trial, followed by the State of Indiana, represented by county prosecutor Benjamin Kim, presenting evidence and witnesses before resting its case. Not having adequate time to conclude the trial in a single day, the jury was recessed until the following day when Porter was ultimately found guilty on both felony counts.

A sentencing hearing in this case is set for June 25 at 8:15 a.m. before the Honorable Don VanDerMoere II.

the UDO will not be discussed at the upcoming commissioners’ meeting on Thursday, June 5.”

The agenda posted on the Owen County Indiana Government Facebook Page included the Plan Commission UDO as a new business item.

The Owen News will be following this developing story.

temperature measuring device needed in fridge, freezer and pizza prep area. Izzy’s AF Bar, food truck. Routine inspection. No violations. Mr. Fluff’s Cotton Candy, food tent. Routine inspection. No violations. Fruit Monster’s Fruit Bowls, food tent. Routine inspection. No violations.

BBQ Bills, food truck. Routine inspection. No violations.

Cup of Joy, food truck. Routine inspection. No violations. Jiffy Treat (mobile unit), food truck.

WARNER | FROM PAGE 1

needing to trim its budget.

“We have obligations based on what we do every day that we have to meet. So that’s where the rubber hits the road. That’s why these positions are tough. That’s why folks are in these positions that are hopefully level-headed enough to make those kinds of decisions,” Warner said. “I think what I bring to the table is the ability to look at all of it. I’m not going to argue. I’m not going to yell at you. I’m going to listen to you, but we will have some frank conversations because that’s what we have to do.”

Warner served as chair of the county plan commission, during which time, the county’s Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) was considered, filling the Owen Valley High School auditorium with concerned citizens. Warner pointed to how he handled that situation.

“You want to see a calm, cool, collected guy with a lot of people that weren’t very happy with me, tune in to one of those meetings. But to my knowledge, I never raised my voice at anybody. I told them exactly what I was going to do, and I did, no questions asked,” Warner said. “It’s not popular. Nobody wants it, but we have to have something, or we’ll have a free for all, and we do not want that. That will not help our county at all.”

Routine inspection. No violations.

Phat Daddy’s BBQ, food truck. Routine inspection. No violations.

5-19

Spencer Elementary School, 151 E. Hillside Ave., Spencer. Routine inspection. No violations.

5-21

Owen Valley High School, 622 W. S.R. 46, Spencer. Routine inspection. No violations. Owen Valley Middle School, 626 W. S.R. 46, Spencer. Routine inspection. No violations.

Warner then went to the experience he has working for Spencer-Owen Community Schools. He noted that in that situation, like the county, pay is dictated by the budget, which sometimes leads to turnover.

“Turnover is an issue because of what we’re allowed to pay. What we’re allowed to pay is dictated to us by our budget. It’s nothing personal. It’s what we can afford to pay. So the only plus you can give those individuals is make it as pleasant as you can here within reason. You’re not going to bend over backwards and let them not do their job, obviously, but you can make the work environment as pleasant as possible. And you also you need to get people that are vested in Owen County, because now they have a vested interest in staying with Owen County,” Warner said. “There’s folks that have been working here for a long time, for pretty much the same amount of money. Those are vested individuals.”

Warner said that working in school corporations has prepared him for understanding how government budgets work.

“I think I’m approachable. I think I’m willing to listen. At the end of the day, we may disagree, but I don’t think I’ll ever make you feel like you’re less of a person because I disagree with you,” said Warner as he ended his speech.

First annual ON mushroom contest winners

Vandalia Strawberry Fest is this month

Press Release

The annual Vandalia Community Preservation Association (VCPA) Strawberry Fest will take place on Sunday, June 8. The event will start at the historic Vandalia Schoolhouse, where strawberries,

shortcake, and ice cream will be served from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Across the street at the Vandalia Historical Chapel will be Lloyd Wood, with his acoustic guitar, from 3 to 4:30 p.m., performing a variety of classic country favorites, as well as original songs,

vocal impressions such as Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson and Elvis, down-home country humor and a few gospel songs. Accompanying Wood will be Ed Davis on bass. Enjoy an afternoon of great entertainment and delicious dessert while supporting

a great cause. The cost of the event is $12 for adults and $5 for children aged 10 and under, which includes both the food and the live music. Proceeds benefit VCPA for preservation and maintenance of the historic chapel and one-room schoolhouse.

The event will take place in the village of Vandalia (six miles west of Spencer) at 5471 Vandalia Rd., off State Roads 246 and 46. Visit the VCPA Facebook page, facebook.com/ vandaliacpa, and website, vandaliacpa. org, for more information.

Fifth annual Serving Owen County Together

Staff Report

The fifth annual Serving Owen County Together event is set for Saturday, June 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the

front parking lot of the Owen Valley Middle School/Owen Valley High School complex in Spencer.

Free items will be available, including furniture, non-perishable food, hygiene

products, clothing, infant supplies, drinks and more.

The rain date is June 28.

This is a collaborative partnership between Servant’s Heart, Hoosier Hills Food Bank, For Bare Feet,

Changing Footprints and many others including a wide variety of clubs, groups and churches in our community to share free resources to those in need.

ON wins 2 SPJ awards in statewide journalism competition

Staff Report

The Owen News was recognized last month at the annual Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) Best in Indiana Journalism Awards.

The awards are hosted by the Indiana Pro SPJ Chapter.

The Owen News placed

third in environmental reporting for publications under 10,000. The first and second place winners were Limestone Post Magazine and The Herald-Times, respectively. Both publications are located in Monroe County.

The Owen News also placed third in newspaper page one design. This category

includes all newspapers throughout the state. The Indianapolis Business Journal and The Indianapolis Star took first and second respectively.

“It is an honor to be recognized for work that took place so early in our existence, especially as we had not hired paid staff during that time,” ON Executive

Editor Nicole DeCriscio said. “It affirms the quality of the product that we produce, which we wouldn’t be able to do without The Owen County Community Foundation, our readers, our donors and our advertisers. We’re successful because of the support of our community.”

From left: First place winner Sarah LaGrange poses for a photo with the winning morel mushroom. The mushroom was 8 inches tall by 2 inches wide, and it weighed 1.6 ounces. NICOLE DECRISCIO | THE OWEN NEWS // MaryAnne Dunfee poses for a photo with her second and third place winning morels. They were 7 inches and 6.75 inches, respectively. PHOTO SUBMITTED BY TOM WALLACE.

CCSC Board approves administrative contracts

CHS football set to join Southwest Conference in 2026

By Travis Curry Senior Correspondent

The Cloverdale Community School Corporation (CCSC) Board of School Trustees met in regular session on May 12 to approve routine matters, recognize student and staff members of the month, and to address several items under the new business portion of the meeting. Board member Joe Mann was not in attendance.

Under routine matters, the board voted 5-0-1, with board member Mike Rightmyer II abstaining from the vote due to a previous meeting absence, to approve meeting minutes for executive and regular sessions held April 14.

Acting on a motion from Rightmyer, seconded by Donna Fidler, the board voted 6-0 to approve the latest claims and financial reports, which CCSC Superintendent Greg Linton advised totaled $2,443,720.21 since the board’s previous meeting.

Also under routine matters, the board voted 6-0 to approve Board Policies Volume 37, No. 1.

Next, the board recognized the corporation’s Student of the Month honorees for May, which included Cloverdale Elementary School (CES) student Brylie Jones, Cloverdale Middle School (CMS) student Aven Harrell and Cloverdale High School (CHS) student Jesse Carroll.

Whitney Roberts, CES special education teacher, was recognized as the latest Staff Member of the Month.

CCSC School Resource Officer (SRO) Roger Tonna was in attendance to recognize the corporation’s Citizens of the Month for May, which

included CES fourth graders Ross Pace and Wade Bartlett and CMS student Eden Parrish.

“I want to congratulate all of you,” board president Vivian Whitaker said at the conclusion of the presentations, addressing the Student of the Month recipients.

“You set a wonderful example for your classmates and your schoolmates.”

Next, the board heard an update from project manager Bob Ross of Indianapolisbased Schmidt Associates. Ross noted the corporation’s new training and practice facility will consist of an additional 20,000 square feet, in addition to the renovation of 1,375 square feet of existing space. In addition to site improvements and drainage repairs in and around the football field area, Ross said the project will include enhanced athletic facilities to improve safety and support athletic improvement, enhanced curricular opportunities for the corporation’s physical fitness curriculum and increased opportunities for community engagement.

Construction is anticipated to begin in the spring of 2026.

The board later cast individual 6-0 votes to approve the CHS summer school session and 2025 summer Marching Band/Color Guard program. Karl Turk, Dana Lorenze and Andy Taylor were approved to teach/ supervise the 2025 online summer school program, while band director Jared Metzger and Guard instructor Rebecca Raisor will guide the summer Marching Band/Color Guard program.

Acting on a motion

from Fidler, seconded by Emily Haltom, the board voted unanimously to approve a request from Old National Trails to provide summer school services for one CHS student. The duration of the summer session is 18 days, three hours per day, during the months of June and July. A teacher and instructional assistant were also approved at rates of $38.25 and $17.37 per hour.

The board also voted 6-0 to approve one-year contract extensions for administrators Sonny Stoltz, Mary Jane Elkins, Chelsey Meluch, Cathy Ames, Brent Sailor and Ethan Linton. The extensions provide each administrator with contracts through June 30, 2027. The approval effectively placed each building principal, assistant principal and curriculum director on a two-year contract. No pay increases were included.

“I believe the school corporation is very fortunate to have the current group of building administrators working in their current positions,” noted CCSC Superintendent Greg Linton. “They are dedicated to our students and community and spend the necessary time to ensure their job responsibilities are completed.”

The approved contract extensions also included Superintendent Linton, whose current contract was effectively extended to a threeyear contract.

The board later voted 6-0 to approve expanding the CMS math department by adding Tyce Jackson as a fulltime teacher. According to CMS Principal Ms. Meluch, the staff addition will enable the school to better allocate its special

education resources and provide a consistent instructor for all eighthgrade pre-algebra students. In addition, the school will be able to modify its seventh-grade math schedule, she said, to allow for two sections of seventh grade prealgebra to be taught.

Unanimous 6-0 board votes also approved the hiring of a homebound instructor for a student at CMS, and the hiring of Debbie Atwood, Jessica Burdge and Abbie Kenworthy to aid with summer bus maintenance.

Also under new business, the board approved listing CHS baseball and softball scoreboards as surplus, with the scoreboards to be donated to the Cloverdale Community Youth League (CCYL).

In other athletic news, the board unanimously approved a recommendation from CCSC Athletic Director James Wade to allow Cloverdale Football to join the Southwest Football Conference, beginning with the 20262027 school year.

The Southwest Conference is currently comprised of four schools – North CentralFarmersburg, North Daviess, North Knox and Eastern Greene.

“It is my desire and Cloverdale football’s desire to find a football conference for our student-athletes to compete so they can experience the journey of fighting for a championship and academic and athletic honors that playing independently does not afford,” Wade noted in his letter of recommendation.

“Beginning in 2025, we will already play North Daviess and North Central-Farmersburg as part of our regular season schedule, and

our school size aligns well with all the schools in the conference. This conference would be a great fit and opportunity for our school and football program.”

The evening’s meeting included one addition to the agenda, the reappointment of Derrick Raymer to the Owen County Public Library’s Board of Directors. Raymer, who currently serves as president of the board, was unanimously approved to serve a second four-year term.

In addition, the board unanimously approved the following professional leave, field trip, and facility use requests:

Professional Leaves

April 17 – Julie Dix, CHS kitchen remodel.

April 24-25 –Karl Turk, National Career Development Conference/JAG, JW Marriott, Indianapolis.

May 6 – Rachel Newton and Angie Ranard – taking the Praxis 5205, CMS.

May 9 – Kenzie Pigg – Putnam County Fourth Grade Ag Field Day, Putnam County Fairgrounds, Greencastle.

June 5-6 – Alison Dobbs – Conference for Continuing Ed (LMHC licensure), Plainfield.

Field Trips

April 17 – CHS junior and senior classes, Area 30.

April 24 – JAG, JW Marriott, Indianapolis.

May 8 – CHS freshman class, Indianapolis Indians game, Indianapolis.

Facility Use

June 24-25 – CHS gymnasium, CHS boys’ basketball Summer Shootout.

Additional personnel matters receiving CCSC | PAGE 17

OVMS unveils major renovation

By Kris Samick S-OCS Director of Communication

After more than four decades without a major update, Owen Valley Middle School (OVMS) has undergone a transformative renovation, breathing new life into the building and enhancing the learning environment for students and staff alike.

Under the expert guidance of Stenftenagel Group, LLC, the comprehensive, yearlong remodeling project has modernized the campus in both form and function.

The project marks the first significant update to the school in 42 years and showcases a blend of thoughtful design and functionality. One of the most notable exterior changes is the reimagined front overhang. What was once a standard façade is now a sleek, store-front design that gives the building a more modern and welcoming appearance. This newly configured space houses the main office, conference room and School Resource Officer (SRO) office, improving both accessibility and security.

Inside, the changes are even more dramatic.

The former office area has been completely repurposed into a vibrant, light-filled media center. Outfitted with updated, colorful furniture and designed to support multiple learning styles, the space includes dedicated small group instruction rooms that promote collaborative

learning and flexible teaching approaches.

In addition to the media center, the old office area now includes a state-ofthe-art nurse’s office, a functional office for the athletic director, a redesigned staff workroom and a smaller conference room that provides additional space for meetings and planning sessions.

Upstairs, the former library has been completely remodeled to serve as large, collaborative spaces suitable for both small group instruction and larger gatherings. These flexible areas provide an ideal environment for project-based learning, professional development, and school-wide events. Throughout the campus, updated finishes such as fresh paint, new carpeting, and modern tile have revitalized the atmosphere. The enhancements have made the school more inviting, reflecting a renewed commitment to providing a high-

quality educational experience. The remodeling process, while extensive, was carefully managed to minimize disruptions. Students and staff demonstrated exceptional patience and adaptability throughout the construction period. Their cooperation and positive attitude played a key role in the project’s smooth progression.

“The changes to our building have made a tremendous difference in how we use our space and how it feels to be here each day,” said one staff member.

“It’s brighter, more functional, and truly a better place to learn and work.”

Now complete, the renovation stands as a testament to the community’s investment in education and the future of its students.

The revitalized OVMS campus not only reflects the school’s pride in its history, but also its readiness to move forward with modern resources and renewed energy. With the dust settled and the final touches in place, OVMS is poised to serve the next generation of learners in a dynamic, inspiring setting… one that honors its legacy while embracing progress.

From top: The new OVMS Media Center has been outfitted with updated, colorful furniture and designed to support multiple learning styles. // The new entrance houses the School Resource Officers office area, improving both accessibility and security.PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY SPENCER-OWEN COMMUNITY SCHOOLS.

S-OCS awarded ISBA Exemplary Governance Award

Press Release

The SpencerOwen Community School Board has been recognized by the Indiana School Boards Association (ISBA) with an Exemplary Governance Award (EGA) for calendar year 2024 for demonstrating an outstanding commitment to student success and professional learning. Only 124 school

boards in the state of Indiana earned awards through the EGA program this year.

The awards are conferred annually across four levels of distinction based on the points earned by school board members for attending ISBA seminars, workshops, conferences, and other learning events, as well as the completion of certain additional criteria, such as a

retreat with an outside facilitator and goal setting to elevate student achievement outcomes.

“On behalf of ISBA, I would like to commend this most exceptional group of school boards and school board members,” said ISBA Executive Director Terry Spradlin. “School boards perform a vital public service for their communities, and board members who

actively participate in professional learning are better equipped to govern effectively and meet the needs of students.”

Award recipients were formally recognized at ISBA’s Spring Regional Meetings during the month of May. In addition to the board-level accolades, 239 school board members earned individual EGA awards.

ISBA provides a full range of professional learning opportunities at dozens of events throughout the year to inform and educate school board members about best practices, legislative issues, policy development, school law, and more. For a complete list of individual and board award recipients for the 2024 award year, visit isba-ind.org/ega. html.

Seven Oaks wins Salvatori Prize for Excellence in Education again

Press Release

Seven Oaks Classical School has once again earned national recognition as a leader in the classical education movement. Hillsdale College’s K-12 Education Office has named Seven Oaks the winner of the 2025 Salvatori Prize for Excellence in Education, marking the second time the Monroe County public charter school has received this prestigious honor.

The Salvatori Prize is named for Henry Salvatori, an ItalianAmerican entrepreneur and philanthropist who believed deeply in the principles of liberty, limited government and civic education. It is awarded by Hillsdale College, a nationally renowned liberal arts institution in Michigan whose K-12 Education Office supports a network of classical charter schools across the country. The prize is awarded annually to the school that best exemplifies the highest ideals of classical education and excellence in teaching. The award is open to both public and private institutions nationwide, and the review process considers school governance, leadership, curriculum,

pedagogy, and culture.

Seven Oaks also won the Salvatori Prize in 2022, placing the school in rare company. This repeat recognition serves as a strong affirmation of the school’s continued progress in its mission of cultivating intellectual, moral and civic virtue, according to Stephen Shipp, Headmaster of Seven Oaks Classical School. This year’s recognition includes a $40,000 award, a certificate of distinction and the opportunity to be recognized at Hillsdale College events and conferences.

“We are deeply honored to be selected again for the Salvatori Prize,” Shipp said. “As a school, we are committed to continued growth toward excellence. The school has come a long way since 2022. This award is a testament to the hard work of our faculty and staff. It is also a recognition of the students and families who make up our community of learning and who share our mission of forming minds and hearts. The future of our country will be decided by whether schools and families like ours successfully plant and water the seeds of wisdom and virtue in the next generation.”

Founded in 2016, Seven Oaks Classical School now serves over 550 students, K-12, from Monroe County and surrounding areas. As a public charter school, it is tuition-free and open to all. Seven Oaks is a Hillsdale College Member School, a distinction that offers the school access to curriculum and training from the Hillsdale College K-12 Education Office. The school’s curriculum offers steady instruction in classic literature, history, mathematics, science and Latin, with a strong emphasis on writing, reasoning and the fine arts. The school preserves the best traditional methods, including phonics. The school is known for its facultyled instruction, orderly environment and culture of respect and gratitude. The school’s academic program is supplemented by a wide range of extracurricular activities and a rapidly growing athletics program.

“We believe students flourish when held to high standards and when given a vision of the good,” Shipp said. “This award reaffirms that there is a hunger in our community for an education that calls students

to excellence and that has a clear vision for the formation of the whole person.”

“I have had the privilege of visiting Seven Oaks over the years, including during its earliest days, when the school was still laying its foundation. Even then, one could sense that something uncommon and enduring was beginning to take root. During our most recent visit, however, it became abundantly clear: Seven Oaks has not only remained true to its founding mission—it has matured into a flourishing institution marked by courage, clarity, and joy,” said Dr. Kathleen O’Toole, Associate Vice President of K-12 Education at Hillsdale College.

Seven Oaks formally celebrated the award with an all-school assembly, and its leadership will be honored at a national gathering of Hillsdale-affiliated schools this month.

For more information about Seven Oaks Classical School, visit sevenoaksclassical.org.

To learn more about the Salvatori Prize and Hillsdale College’s K-12 initiative, visit k12.hillsdale.edu.

Memorial Day 2025

Clockwise from top:

Former Veterans Service Office Joe Goldman salutes the flag during the Star Spangled Banner at the ceremony at the courthouse. County Councilwoman Polly Chesser sang the National Anthem. NICOLE DECRISCIO | THE OWEN NEWS // The American Legion Post 230 Honor Guard of Martinsville took part in the annual Memorial Day ceremony held at Gosport Cemetery, providing a threevolley rifle salute to honor their fallen comrades. TRAVIS CURRY | THE OWEN NEWS // Members of the Owen County Honor Guard look on following the placement of wreaths during the ceremony at Riverside Cemetery. NICOLE DECRISCIO | THE OWEN NEWS // VFW Post 7850 Auxiliary member Ashley Hobbs served as the featured speaker during the annual Memorial Day ceremony held at Gosport Cemetery. TRAVIS CURRY | THE OWEN NEWS

Spencer Masonic Lodge celebrates 175 years with rededication event

From top: Members of the Spencer F&M Lodge #95 and representatives from across the state pose for a photo after the rededication ceremony. // From left, Randy Seipel, Grand Master Masons of the State of Indiana, accepts tokens from Marcus Robinson the Wishful Master Spencer Lodge. Those interested in learning more about becoming a Freemason can visit followmetofreemasonry.com.

NICOLE DECRISCIO | THE OWEN NEWS

Fair events to start this month

Staff Report

The Owen County Fair is just around the corner, and several events start later this month.

The fair runs from July 6 to 12.

Here are the 4-H events:

June 15

Horse and Pony Western Show, 10 a.m. at Horse Arena

Mini 4-H Horse Showmanship, 11 a.m. at Horse Arena

June 20

Livestock Pen set up, 5 p.m. at the fairgrounds

June 21

Dog Show, 9 a.m. at Show Arena

Mini 4-H Dog Showmanship, 11 a.m. at Show Arena

June 22

Rifle Ribbon Shoot, 2 p.m. at Sycamore Valley Gun Club

June 28

Shotgun Ribbon Shoot, 10 a.m. at Spencer Conservation Club

Archery Ribbon Shoot, 6 p.m. at location TBD

June 29

Horse and Pony English Show, 10 a.m. at Horse Arena

Rabbit Ambassador, 3 p.m. at Exhibit Hall

Lawn & Garden Skills, Zero Turn Skills, & Ag Tractor Skills Contest, 5 p.m. at Texas Pike

June 30

Prep/Set up time for Creative Expo, 5 p.m. at Exhibit Hall

Creative Expo: All communication Events (Speech, Demonstrations, Creative Writing), Fashion Review, Table Presentation, 6 p.m. at Exhibit Hall

July 1

Cat Show, 9 a.m. at Exhibit Hall

Mini 4-H Cat

Showmanship, 11 a.m. at Exhibit Hall

Small Animal Show/ Mini 4-H Little Critters, 2 p.m. at Exhibit Hall

Bicycle Rodeo Regular and Mini, 6 p.m. at Commercial Building

July 2

Enter/ Open Judging by Appointment: Animal Education Posters, ATV Posters, Beekeeping, Child Development, Civic Engagement, Computer, Entomology, Forestry, Geology, Health, Outdoor Photography, Photography, Shooting Sports, Soil and Water, Sportfishing, Vet Science, Weather, Wildlife, 4 to 6:30pm at Exhibit Hall

July 3

Enter/Open Judging by Appointment: Aerospace, Arts and Crafts General, Collections and Hobbies, Construction Craft, Consumer Clothing, Decorate My Life, Electric, Fine Arts, Genealogy, Gift Wrap, Home Environment,

Models, Needlecraft, Scrapbooking, Sewing Non-Wearable, Sewing Wearable, Small Engine, Welding, Woodworking, 4 to 6:30pm at Exhibit Hall

Enter/Open Judging: All Mini 4-H Projects (except foods), 4 to 6:30pm at Exhibit Hall

July 5

Livestock Check in for ALL: Cattle, Goat, Poultry, Rabbits, Sheep, Swine, 7 to 11a.m. at Livestock Barns

Exhibitor meeting for ALL LIVESTOCK EXHIBITORS, noon at Show Arena

Horse and Pony Enter, 1 to 5 p.m. at Horse Barn

Enter/Open Judging: Cake Decorating, Crops, Cupcake Decorating, Floriculture, Foods, Garden, Gingerbread, Mini Foods, 4 to 6pm at Exhibit Hall

July 6

Market Beef Show, 1 p.m. at Show Arena

Exhibit Hall open, noon to 2 p.m. at Exhibit Hall

Exhibit Hall Off Limits for Queen Contest Prep, 3 p.m. at Exhibit Hall

Perishables

Auction (during Queen contest), 7 p.m. at Show Arena

Horse and Pony Enter (With Prior Approval and Show), by midnight at Horse Barn

July 7

Rabbit Show, 9 a.m. at Rabbit Barn

Mini 4-H Rabbit Showmanship (Start of Rabbit Show), 9 a.m. at Rabbit Barn

Exhibit Hall open, 2 to 9 p.m. at Exhibit Hall

Sheep Show, 3 p.m.

Show Arena

Mini 4-H Sheep Showmanship, 3:30 p.m. at Show Arena

Book 2 Barn Event, 5 p.m. at Rabbit Barn

Exhibit Hall Winners Newspaper Pictures, 5 p.m. at Exhibit Hall

Scholarship Auction/ Volunteer Recognition, 6 p.m. at Show Arena Parade of Grand Champions/ Senior Recognition, 8 p.m. at Main Arena

July 8

State Fair Swine check-in, 7 to 8 a.m. at Show Arena

Dairy Goat Show, 9 a.m. at Show Arena

Exhibit Hall open, 2 to 9 p.m. at Exhibit Hall

Meat Goat Show, 3 p.m. at Show Arena

Mini 4-H Goat Showmanship, 4:30 p.m. at Show Arena

Horse and Pony Contesting, 6 p.m. at Horse Arena

Optional Poultry Mean Pen check-in, 5 to 7 p.m. at Poultry Barn

Poultry Meat Pen weigh-ins, 7 p.m. at Poultry Barn

July 9

Poultry Show/Eggs check-in & Show, 9 a.m. at Poultry Barn

Mini 4-H Poultry Showmanship, 9 a.m.

at Poultry Barn

Exhibit Hall open, 2 to 9 p.m. Exhibit Hall

Dairy Cattle Show, 4 p.m. in Show Arena Beef Cattle Show, following Dairy at Show Arena

July 10

Horse and Pony Fun Show, 9 a.m. to noon at Horse Arena

Skillathon Contest, 10 a.m. to noon at Show Arena

Exhibit Hall open, 2 to 6 p.m. at Exhibit Hall

Swine Show, 3 p.m. at Show Arena

Mini 4-H Swine Showmanship, 4:30 p.m. at Show Arena

Livestock Auction entry deadline, after Swine at Show Arena

Book 2 Barn Event, 5 p.m. at Rabbit Barn Spirit Night, 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Show

Arena

Release All NonAuction Livestock: Cattle, Goat, Horse, Poultry, Rabbit, Sheep, Swine, 10 p.m. at Animal Barns

July 11

All Non-Auction Livestock home, 7 to 8:30 a.m. at Animal Barns

Round Robin Showmanship, 9 a.m. at Show Arena

Exhibit Hall open, 2 to 9 p.m. at Exhibit Hall 4-H Livestock

Auction, 6 p.m. at Show Arena

July 12

Release 4-H Exhibit Hall projects, 9 a.m. to noon at Exhibit Hall

Purdue Extension: Plants we can do without

identification and control of such plant species can reduce future challenges by reducing the spread of seed. This article discusses some of the significant species that cause problems

County. Proper identification is the key to developing a control plan.

Purdue ExtensionOwen County is available to assist you in your identification

The bright yellow flowers that have stalks that can stand four feet tall and bloom in May might be those of cressleaf groundsel. This winter annual germinates in late fall and has been dominant in several crop fields that have been too wet to plant this spring. This plant is easily controlled in corn and soybean fields but can be a nuisance in hay production. All plant parts have a

toxin that persists after the hay is dried. The plant is opportunistic, growing in spots where vegetation is thin. Keep in mind that plant toxicity is a function of the actual type of toxin, the quantity consumed, and the animal’s size and health. Poison hemlock is another plant thriving along roadsides, forest edges and in pastures. It is a biennial plant that grows vegetatively in year one and produces seed in year two. Bloom happens later this month, with the flowers looking similar to those of Queen Anne’s lace or wild parsnip. Purple spots on the stem differentiate it

from other plants, and its height can be up to 10 feet. The first line of defense is seed control. With the plant this close to flowering, chemical control will not be as effective as when the plant is in early development. Wearing gloves and avoiding contact with the plant is recommended when you handle this plant. A special publication, FNR437-W, outlines chemical control methods and can be found online. Keep in mind that this plant only reproduces via seed.

A special bulletin is provided by Purdue Extension. “Guide to Toxic

Plants in Forages” is numbered WS37 and available online. A paper copy can also be obtained by contacting Purdue Extension-Owen County. Call the office at 812-8295020 or email luzar@purdue.edu to request a paper copy.

Another nasty, poisonous plant listed in the publication WS-37 is white snakeroot. This plant can grow up to four feet tall and contains the toxin Tremetone, which can pass through milk. You do not want this plant in your pasture or hayfield.

A final “oddball plant” that is a hedge plant and is extremely toxic when clippings are consumed is

the yew shrub. In areas where pastures border housing one must be careful that a neighbor doesn’t trim the yews and toss clippings into the pasture. I have worked with clients who found a ewe dead from consuming yew trimmings. Another poisoning possibility is wild cherry limbs breaking off and leaves being consumed by cattle. Site awareness is important and identifying potential hazards can pay dividends. Again, contact Purdue Extension-Owen County at 812829-5020 if you want assistance identifying “problem” plants.

Celebrate National Eat Your Vegetables Day

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

Mark your calendars—June 17 is National Eat Your Vegetables Day!

It’s the perfect excuse (not that you needed one) to pile your plate high with a rainbow of tasty, crunchy, nutritious vegetables.

Whether you’re a veggie lover or someone still warming up to greens, there’s never been a better time to celebrate the power of plants.

According to

research shared by Purdue Extension, vegetables are essential to a healthy diet because they’re packed with nutrients like vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber.

These aren’t just fancy words—these nutrients help our bodies grow strong, support our immune systems and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes and certain types of cancer. Vegetables also help maintain a healthy weight, improve digestion and boost energy levels throughout the day.

But here’s where it gets really fun—color isn’t just for looks, it’s for your health.

Loading your plate with a variety of veggie colors doesn’t just make your meal social

media worthy—it’s one of the easiest (and tastiest) ways to give your body the nutrients it needs. Each color packs its own powerful benefits, so the more colors you eat, the more your body gets to celebrate.

Green vegetables like broccoli, spinach and green beans are rich in vitamin K, folate and iron—great for bone health and blood function.

Orange and yellow veggies such as carrots, squash and bell peppers are loaded with betacarotene, which supports healthy vision and skin.

Red vegetables like tomatoes and red peppers are packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health and reduced

inflammation.

Purple and blue veggies, including eggplant and purple cabbage, contain compounds that protect brain health and may slow cellular aging.

White and tan vegetables such as cauliflower, garlic, and onions can help regulate blood pressure, lower cholesterol and support a strong immune system.

Purdue Extension encourages families to “eat the rainbow” every day, and National Eat Your Vegetables Day is a great time to start. Get kids involved by letting them pick a new veggie to try, plant a mini garden or create a colorful veggie tray together.

Not a big fan of veggies yet? No

problem. Try roasting them with a drizzle of olive oil, blending them into smoothies or dipping them in hummus. You might just find a new favorite!

So, this June 17 celebrate your health and taste buds with a vibrant veggie feast. Your body will thank you, and your plate will never look better!

Interested in bringing a program to your group or organization? Whether it’s food, health, family, or finance—we’ve got you covered. Email me at lowder0@purdue. edu and let’s plan something together.

For recipes, gardening tips and more veggie inspiration, visit extension.purdue.edu.

Teen programming at OCPL

By Brittany Van Hook OCPL Director

Owen County Public Library has a dedicated space just for teens?

The Teen Hangout

Room, located on the first floor just past the elevator, is your go-to spot for fun, games and connection.

Inside, you’ll find nearly every gaming console imaginable — from classics like the NES and Genesis to modern favorites like the ps5, Switch and even a gaming PC. Whether you’re into retro titles or the latest releases, there’s something for everyone.

Here’s what’s happening each week:

- Tuesdays: Retro Game Night – Enjoy a blast from the past with classic games.

- Wednesdays and Thursdays: Teen Hangout – A chill time to relax, game or just hang out with friends.

- Fridays: Dungeons & Dragons – Dive into epic adventures and storytelling with fellow D&D fans.

- Every other Saturday: Miniature

Painting Club – Open to all ages, come paint and personalize mini figures.

Exciting summer plans!

We’re planning even more teen-focused events this summer, including:

- Movie nights

- Lego club - Crafting sessions - Cooking classes Have ideas? We want to hear from you! If you or your teen

have suggestions for future programs, reach out: Facebook: Owen County Library

Phone: 812-8293392

Email: bvanhook@ owenlib.org

Come hang out, get involved and help us make the Teen Hangout Room the coolest spot in the library!

Owen County Fair to celebrate youth achievement, community spirit

By Cassie Linville 4-H Youth Development Educator

past year learning, growing and contributing to their community.

The Owen County 4-H Fair is fast approaching, and the community is gearing up to celebrate the hard work, dedication and accomplishments of its 4-H youth.

In partnership with Purdue Extension-Owen County, this beloved annual event highlights the talents and efforts of local 4-H members who have spent the

Pre-fair events will kick off on June 15, offering an early glimpse into the excitement and energy that surrounds 4-H in Owen County. The main fair will run from July 6 through July 11, bringing together families, friends and neighbors for a week of celebration, education and fun.

This portion of the fair is dedicated to showcasing the wide array of projects and skills developed by 4-H participants. The 4-H Exhibit Hall will be filled with creative and educational displays, ranging

from agriculture and science to arts and crafts. These exhibits reflect the commitment and passion of Owen County’s young leaders and provide a window into the diverse interests and talents nurtured through the 4-H program.

Another highlight of the fair will be the livestock shows, where 4-H members present the animals they’ve raised and cared for throughout the year. These events not only demonstrate the youths’ knowledge and responsibility but also celebrate the agricultural heritage that remains strong in Owen County. Whether it’s cattle,

swine, poultry or goats, the livestock shows are a proud moment for participants and a favorite among fairgoers.

In addition to the exhibits and shows, the fair will feature a variety of fun and engaging activities designed to celebrate the end of the 4-H year. These events offer a well-earned opportunity for members to relax, connect with peers and enjoy the festive atmosphere. From games and contests to community gatherings, the fair is a time of joy and recognition for all involved.

The Owen County Fair Association plays a vital role in making this celebration

possible. Their continued support and the use of their facilities allow 4-H to be prominently featured at the fair. The Owen County 4-H program and Purdue Extension are deeply grateful for this partnership, which helps bring the community together and provides a platform for youth to shine.

We are incredibly thankful to the Owen County Fair Association for their generosity and collaboration. Their support ensures that our 4-H members have a space to showcase their achievements and be recognized for their hard work.

As the fair approaches, the community is encouraged to come out and support the 4-H youth who represent the future of Owen County. Their dedication, perseverance and enthusiasm are truly inspiring, and the fair is the perfect opportunity to celebrate their journey. Mark your calendars and join us at the Owen County 4-H Fair — where tradition meets tomorrow, and where the spirit of youth and community come together in a celebration of excellence.

Spencer Lions Club offers free summer meal program to youth Staff Report

The Spencer Lions Club Free Summer Meal Program will be available to kids and teens 18 and under on weekdays from noon to 1 p.m. at the Lester F. Litten Community Building, 59 N. Main St., Spencer.

Adult meals are offered for $3 each.

Every meal contains two ounces of protein, a grain, vegetable, fruit and milk. The menu will be posted on Facebook and put in the Lions Club window each week.

On Tuesdays and Thursdays lunch will be offered only at the Patricksburg Community Volunteer Fire Department, 10058 Marion St., Patricksburg. For more information, contact Tierra Guy at 812-585-1391.

CCSC | FROM PAGE 8

receiving unanimous board approval included:

Resignation

Tracy Young – CHS instructional assistant.

Sarah Campbell – CES instructional assistant.

Employment

Jamie Nees – CES special education teacher.

Alexis Mumma – CCSC choir teacher.

Tori Maldonado – Knoy teacher.

Silas Plasters – CMS temporary custodian.

Asyria Ford – Transportation summer help.

Coaching Resignation

Drew Boyette – CHS assistant varsity football coach.

Michael Glassburn – CMS eighth grade boys’ basketball coach.

Kim Schroer – CMS eighth grade volleyball coach. Kamrie Highbaugh –CMS seventh/eighth grade cheerleading coach.

Coaching Volunteer Anthony Vermillion – CMS seventh/eighth grade volunteer assistant football coach.

The Cloverdale Community School Board will meet again on Monday, June 9 beginning at 7 p.m. in the Arthur L. Johnson Administration Building, 310 E. Logan St., Cloverdale. Members of the board include Vivian Whitaker, Katrina Lewis, Donna Fidler, Melissa Carrell, Emily Haltom, Joe Mann and Mike Rightmyer II.

IDHS opens applications for State Disaster Relief Fund for individual assistance

News Release

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security has opened applications to the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) for residents who incurred damage to their homes or property located in qualifying jurisdictions from any of the following disaster events:

• March 1, 2025: Mine Collapse

• March 15, 2025: Severe Storms

• March 19, 2025: Severe Storms

• March 30 – April 2, 2025: Severe Storms/Flooding

years.

attempted to read it aloud himself.

“It is with mixed emotions that I am writing to inform you of my decision to retire from my position as Chief of Police effective June 28, 2025,” Foutch wrote. “After a long career in public safety that has spanned the past 35 years and has taken a toll on my body, I feel it is time to step aside and let someone else take over and hopefully lead this department into the future with renewed momentum and a fresh set of ideas.”

Foutch has served the Town of Spencer and its citizens for a total of 21

Applications to help with immediate needs will be capped at $2000 initially, although eligible homeowners could receive additional assistance after a complete damage assessment is finished.

The SDRF is not currently accepting applications for the Public Assistance program. Local jurisdictions impacted by eligible disaster events will be notified when Public Assistance becomes available.

“Hoosiers across Indiana experienced widespread damage from storms earlier this month. Today, we will be opening the

“I have done my best to assure the Town of Spencer has had an organized, efficient and professional police department manned with a group of dedicated officers that have assured its residents, businesses and visitors were safe, secure and protected while maintaining one of the lowest crime rates in the state,” Foutch said in the letter dated May 19, 2025.

enforcement.

State Disaster Relief Fund for individual use to get help to those in need as quickly as possible as IDHS continues to assess damages. Thank you to Governor [Mike] Braun for ensuring we support Hoosiers as they recover from the severe storm damage,” said Secretary of Public Safety and IDHS Executive Director Jennifer-Ruth Green.

The State Disaster Relief Fund applies only to individuals who are uninsured or underinsured. State funding cannot replace insurance coverage, which is the primary and best source of protection from storm damage.

The maximum payout from the SDRF for an individual is $25,000. The fund only addresses the costs of repairing, replacing or restoring property that is the primary residence of the applicant.

The U.S. Small Business Administration has issued their own disaster declarations for some Indiana counties, which opens access to low-interest loans for residents and business owners who incurred damage. Visit the IDHS Disaster Declaration webpage to learn more about the recovery process.

course and letting my granddaughter boss me around. I leave you all with my deepest gratitude as it has been an amazing journey.”

Resource Officer (SRO) for Spencer-Owen Community Schools.

The Town of Spencer will host a public retirement party for Foutch on June 28, from 12 to 4 p.m. at the In God’s Arms (IGA) building, 95 W. Franklin St., in Spencer. Refreshments will be provided. RETIRE | FROM PAGE 1

Foutch, a veteran of the United States Marine Corp and graduate of the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA), thanked the Town of Spencer for the opportunity to expand his career in law

“I sincerely want to thank the Town of Spencer for giving me the opportunity to fulfill my lifelong dream of becoming a police officer,” Foutch said in the letter. “It just seems like yesterday I was patrolling my first shift with a shiny new uniform and fresh cut flat top. You always know at some point it will come to an end – I have seen a lot of good officers come through our doors and go on to become great officers, and I am extremely proud that I have played a part in that. As for me, I am looking forward to getting some rest, spending a lot more time on the golf

Foutch planned to meet individually with town council members Jon Stantz, Evan McKalip and Mike Spinks in the following days, with the process of selecting his replacement to begin thereafter. Foutch’s career in law enforcement began with the Cloverdale Police Department and later included serving more than four years as a deputy with the Owen County Sheriff’s Department and two years as a School

A graduate of the ILEA Police Chief Executive Training Course, Foutch was named Officer of the Year for the southern portion of Indiana by the Indiana American Legion in 2007 and was recognized as a Master Marshal by the Indiana Marshals’ Association (IMA) in 2016.

Dementia Friendly Owen County Initiative to start

Submitted Article

Owen County is coming together to understand how well the community serves people with dementia and to explore how we can act together to improve opportunities and outcomes for people with dementia by becoming a dementia friendly community.

The first meeting to share ideas and knowledge will take place at 2 p.m. June 17 in the Area 10 Agency on Aging conference room. RSVPs are requested.

The prevalence of dementia is rapidly increasing. The number of people with dementia is expected to double for people ages 75 to 84 and triple for those over age 85. Younger onset Alzheimer’s, occurring in people under age 65, is also on the rise.

Recognizing that Owen County has a growing older population, we need to prepare all sectors in our community to

address the growing opportunities and needs faced by people living with dementia, their families, care partners, employers, and the community as a whole.

Please join Area 10 to prepare Owen County for this pressing, critical community issue to address opportunities and meet the needs of people with dementia and be part of the dementia friendly movement spreading across

the United States through the Dementia Friendly America initiative. To learn more, visit dfamerica. org or contact Amy Guerrettaz at 812-9352582 or aguerrettaz@ area10agency.org.

What is a “Dementia Friendly Community”?

Dementia Friendly America began in 2015 after the White House Conference on Aging. DFA helps communities become dementia friendly,

where every part of the community works together to create a dementia friendly culture. This involves training local businesses, community leaders and caregivers on how to interact sensitively with individuals with dementia. A dementia friendly community promotes awareness and understanding of dementia and provides resources and support to individuals and families affected by dementia.

Duke Energy awards grants to local economic development organizations to boost growth, job creation in south central Indiana

Press Release

Duke Energy has selected five economic development organizations in south central Indiana for inclusion in its 2025 Partnership Program, which funds marketing and strategic efforts to attract new jobs and investment to Indiana.

“This program gives our local economic development partners the tools they need to showcase the strengths of their communities – both at home and on the national stage,” said Erin Schneider, managing director of economic development at Duke Energy. “It’s just one of the many ways we’re helping influence growth in the state to build competitive, thriving communities.”

ARRESTED | FROM PAGE 1

An initial hearing in the case was held May 15 in the Owen County Circuit Court where Barley appeared in person and the court entered a not guilty plea on his behalf.

Barley is being represented by attorney Tanner Shapiro.

According to an Owen County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) news release, on the morning of Tuesday, May 13, School Resource Officers (SRO) were “made aware of a social media post indicating Mr. Barley was on Owen Valley High School property and had a handgun tucked in his front waistline.”

The photo had reportedly been posted to social media the previous day, May 12, with authorities noting the background of the photograph clearly indicated it had been taken on school grounds.

Partnership Program grant funds can be used to support a wide array of marketing initiatives, including trade show attendance, website redesign, promotional materials and presentations or tours to introduce prospective companies and site selectors to a community.

To qualify for program consideration, each applicant submitted a plan that would have a direct impact on their community’s economic growth. Grant amounts varied depending on the size and scope of the project.

This year, grants were awarded to the following south central Indiana organizations:

Owen County Chamber

Officers responded by immediately removing Barley from his classroom and escorting him to the teacher’s lounge where they began asking questions.

According to the probable cause affidavit filed in the case, once inside the teacher’s lounge authorities showed Barley the photo that had been posted to social media and asked if he had an explanation for why he appeared to be in possession of a handgun on school grounds.

“According to Mr. Barley, he was given a handgun as a graduation gift from his uncle and forgot that it was tucked in his waist when the photograph was taken,” OCSD Deputy and SRO William Browne reported in the affidavit.

Officers responded by reading Barley his Miranda rights, after which Deputy Browne

of Commerce and Economic Development Corporation and Brown County Redevelopment Commission – $10,000

Owen County and Brown County will each receive $5,000 to support the counties’ regional efforts, alongside Monroe County, for their work with the Regional Opportunity Initiatives to submit an application to the U.S. Economic Development Administration for an Economic Development District designation.

Bloomington Economic Development Corporation –$5,000

Grant funds will support the creation of high-quality marketing materials designed to attract new business investment, highlight

noted he agreed to continue answering questions.

Since the photo was taken outside the school, authorities asked Barley why he appeared to be in possession of a firearm on school property.

Barley reportedly stated he “forgot he had it on his person when he returned to the student parking lot around 6 p.m. to assist a female student and her father with vehicle issues” on the evening of May 12.

When asked where the firearm was “located at the moment,” Barley told authorities the gun was in his Chevrolet pickup in the student parking lot. The gun would be retrieved by the authorities, unloaded, along with a holster, a box of 9mm ammunition and two loaded magazines, one inside the truck’s center console and another in a plastic bracket mounted

under the steering wheel.

Monroe County’s competitive advantages, and accelerate job growth and economic development in the region.

Jackson County Industrial Development Corporation – $5,000

Grant funds will support the organization’s attendance at several site consultant events in 2025.

Lawrence County Economic Growth Council –$5,000

Grant funds will support the development of a new website that aligns with the organization’s work to promote new investment through business retention and expansion, business attraction and quality of place enhancement.

The vehicle was reportedly locked and parked properly in the lot, where authorities said they could “plainly see the handgun from the driver’s side door window” upon arrival.

Authorities also interviewed the female student who took the photo and posted it to social media. The affidavit states she “did not know Mr. Barley was in possession of the handgun” and further advised she was the person who posted the photograph on social media with “no intent to cause Mr. Barley any trouble.”

A male student shown in the photo was also interviewed by authorities, saying he knew Barley had the handgun “in his waistline and that he carries the handgun on his person frequently, but did not really think about it being on school grounds because it was after normal school hours.”

Both students said they “never felt threatened or intimidated by Mr. Barley,” according to the affidavit.

No threats were made to the safety of other students or staff.

“We are grateful to the student who brought this matter to our attention and commend the swift action of our School Resource Officers in helping to maintain the safety and security of our campus,” Spencer-Owen Community Schools Superintendent Andy Cline said in a statement issued after the incident. According to Owen County Prosecutor Benjamin Kim, a pretrial conference in the case is set for June 26 and a final pretrial conference for Sept. 5. A jury trial is slated to begin Oct. 14. The prosecutor issued a reminder that all persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Trailing or Leading: Funding answer hiding in the weeds

By Kyle Hannon Project Manager, MYPath Trail System

I’ll take the pot money.

In this recently completed session of the Indiana General Assembly, lawmakers faced a difficult budget task. After three quarters of positive revenue projections, the final forecast before the final budget negotiations showed a $2 billion shortfall.

So, lawmakers started casting hoped-for programs and expenditures overboard, in hopes of staying afloat. Agencies were forced to cut back their

budgets. And the money we wanted for trails was set at $0.

To find new revenue, lawmakers searched the catacombs and dusted off the good old cigarette tax. They increased the tax by $2 per pack. Apparently, they didn’t want to tax vaudeville shows. Or scurvy. Or any other old pastime.

Meanwhile, our neighboring states have been collecting money from cannabis sales.

So far, Illinois has collected $457,284,195 and Michigan has collected $331,000,000, according to The Motley Fool. Sales of recreational marijuana didn’t start in Ohio until August 2024, but I imagine the

figures will be similar.

The Motley Fool estimates Indiana would collect $172,219,718 from cannabis sales taxes. Gosh. We were only asking for $30 million for trails this year.

While lawmakers are digging up last century’s tax code to find possible revenue, I can’t believe they haven’t seriously considered the potential revenue from marijuana taxes. Actually, I believe they have.

No organization I work with or for is endorsing legalized marijuana. Personally, I had two friends (one is dead now) who struggled mightily with marijuana addiction. At the same time, we all know people who have suffered from

drinking, smoking and gambling. There are real costs to vices. Yet, those vices are all taxed, and Indiana depends on their revenue.

Marijuana is a potential income source, completely voluntary, that generates a lot of revenue at a time when lawmakers are desperate for money. The pot money is currently going from Indiana to neighboring states. What are the chances Indiana lawmakers will legalize and tax this voluntary vice in the next session or two? Maybe they will start with medical marijuana, but it is coming soon. We could take bets on this, and Indiana would be happy to collect gambling taxes.

When they adopt a cannabis

tax, I want trails and nature to be at the front of the line for the revenue. Our parks have been cut drastically by this current budget shortfall (including my parttime naturalist job). Isn’t there some kind of logical connection between nature and marijuana?

Marijuana is a plant, after all. A recreational plant could help fund natural activities.

Communities have been demanding more trails, even before the current budget crisis. As this column has shared previously, only one-third of the Next Level Trails (NLT) applications were funded. That means there is a lot of unmet need in Hoosier communities. Imagine how many

trails people would be using now if the NLT program had enough money for all the requests. Trails in Indiana benefit the health, recreation and economic development in our local communities. If legislators are going to legalize marijuana, don’t let this opportunity to fund trails go up in smoke, in somebody else’s state.

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.

Outdoor Type: Uebelhor can handle Patoka Lake’s bass challenge

bites there now can be a tedious process.

It’s deep and clear, and possibly because of high water levels, the grass has mostly disappeared. Baitfish like to spawn, feed and hide in grass, and when it’s gone, the entire fishery suffers.

Patoka’s onceabundant wood cover has largely rotted away, along with the brush piles planted during the lake’s construction. Since DNR rules allow no private individuals to plant brush, and there are no docks where owners plant cover, you have a minimum of targets. After the spring you’ve got to be good with your graph to find the spots, which are mostly offshore.

“If you drive by Patoka and see a guy out in the middle of the lake,” Jasper angler Nick Uebelhor said, “it might be me.”

On my first trip to West Boggs Lake years ago, I noticed the abundant grass, a surefire sign that good fishing was likely, not just for bass but for all species. On a positive note, some anglers have recently reported the grass at Patoka is slowly returning.

He uses three main tools for deep bass: a plastic worm, a

Carolina rig and a deep-running crankbait.

“A lot of fishermen just stay shallow and don’t use their graph well,’ Uebelhor said. “It’s a very important tool. Guys who do well at Patoka are good because they know how to graph fish. You must be around baitfish for there to be bass around, but they’re hard to see. I can spot walleye easier than bass. Patoka largemouth don’t group up like they do at Kentucky Lake. You might see 100 bass in a school there. At Patoka it might be just two or three. But if you see them, you better stop and fish because there are only seven in the entire lake. Seriously, it’s getting tougher because of all the weekend tournaments and guys getting better with their electronics.”

Nick has caught a 5-14 smallmouth out of Patoka, his largest ever. For good brown bass fishing he likes Lake St. Claire near Detroit.

“We might get 100 smallmouth in a day up there, including some big ones,” he said. “A lot depends on the weather.”

One spot that has his attention is Newton Lake in Illinois. The power plant reservoir made the list of top national destinations in a recent Bassmaster magazine survey.

“It’s a good winter lake, especially,” he said. “It has plenty of shoreline cover. You can go up there when things are frozen over here. In late January, we caught around 20 bass, with one about three pounds.”

Newton has a 25-horse limit, so Nick fastened a

plate next to the big unit on his rig and attached a 9.9 engine.

Like most fishermen, Nick has a lot of good memories and a favorite is the 2014 college national championship on Pickwick Lake. Along with a partner, Nick struggled the first day to find anything better than 14-inch fish.

“We caught two fish off of a ledge out in the middle late in practice, so we started there the first day,” he said. “A boat came up which I thought was a competitor, but then I realized it was a camera crew. They put some mics on us and started filming. I caught one right when they pulled up, but I told my buddy we needed to catch a big one for the camera. We were way offshore, but suddenly this big bass came up trying to bust a six or seveninch gizzard shad on top. He kept missing it. I didn’t have a topwater bait handy because I had stored it— didn’t figure I’d use it out in the middle. I picked up a ¾-ounce jig and landed it right where the bass was chasing. I felt it sink, felt something heavy and set the hook. I kept hollering, ‘That ain’t real life!’ It’s my new go-to saying. We ended up maybe 10th out of 150 or so boats.”

Nick will fish in various tournaments this year, although he recently had his first child. He might like to make bass fishing his full-time occupation, but that’s a ways off. Someday, big-time bassing for him may truly be “real life.”

Driftwood Outdoors: Use good judgment to prevent wildfires

By Brandon Butler Guest Columnist

Many favorite summer activities involve a fire. Whether you’re camping in the backcountry or roasting marshmallows in the backyard, a campfire often serves as the centerpiece of an attempt to relax. That is, until something goes wrong and your relaxing campfire creates a nightmare.

Human error is responsible for starting 90 percent of wildfires. While lightning and other natural causes are responsible for some fires, the vast majority are man-made accidents, which are often avoidable with a little effort. If all of us just take some precaution, we can prevent wildfires that would otherwise be destructive to personal property and wildlife habitat, and at their worst could even cause a loss of life.

Fire danger is a serious threat to much of the country. I’m preparing to leave for the Boundary Waters in June, and we are now worried we may be under a fire ban. This is a National Park based on water. It’s hard to believe fire danger is that eminent up there, but it is. States like Alaska, California, Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Washington and many more states are constantly battling wildfires. Human error can be blamed for many. Precaution could save thousands upon

Busseron

thousands of acres, people’s homes and most importantly, lives.

Each year, we hear stories of people’s homes and businesses burned due to wildfires that spread into town. At times, thousands of people in the areas must evacuate. Worst of all, each year lives are lost. All because a person outdoors didn’t take the proper precautions to ensure their fire did not spread.

As we travel to camp and enjoy ourselves outdoors, we must be cautious. Wildfires are more prevalent in the West, but the Midwest is also susceptible. Fire danger increases in hot and dry weather, especially when it’s windy. Embers and ashes

picked up by the wind can travel far and fast, turning a campfire into a wildfire.

While campfires are a major cause of manmade wildfires, they are not the only way we can start an unintentional blaze. Fireworks are a big contributor. As are vehicles parked in dry grass or debris. Next time you plan to burn, keep these safety tips provided by the Michigan DNR in mind: Build your campfire in a metal ring or pit. Never leave a fire unattended, even for a moment. When you’re done, thoroughly douse the fire with water, stir and douse again.

When using fireworks, keep a hose handy and make sure to soak used sparklers

in water before discarding them. Never shoot fireworks into dry grass, brush or trees. When barbecuing, never leave the grill unattended and keep a water source nearby.

When pulling a trailer, ensure tow chains don’t drag and cause sparks, which can light a fire along the road’s edge. Avoid using heavy machinery like lawnmowers in dry areas. Don’t park an ORV or other vehicle on dry grass, as a hot exhaust system can ignite the grass. Before burning yard debris, see if burn permits are being issued or if weather conditions allow for safe burning. If you do burn, keep your debris piles small. A large

pile can burn for hours.

These are just a few tips for safe burning. Ultimately, common sense is going to play a big factor in the safety of your fire. Don’t burn on windy days. Don’t burn around a lot of flammable material. Never leave a fire unattended. Make sure your coals are completely out. If you follow these suggestions and make wise decisions, you can help limit the number of destructive wildfires we face each year.

See you down the trail… For more Driftwood Outdoors, check out the podcast on www. driftwoodoutdoors. com or anywhere podcasts are streamed.

Creek to offer prime spot for outdoor recreation, support for national security interests

DNR News Release

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently closed on the acquisition of 3,950 acres of forests, marshland, and upland habitat in Sullivan County that will be

known as Busseron Creek Fish & Wildlife Area (FWA). The permanently conserved land, once part of the former Minnehaha FWA, was acquired through a collaboration with the Conservation Law Center and its Southern Indiana Sentinel

Landscape initiative, and The Conservation Fund. Additional project support came from The Nature Conservancy in Indiana.

“Powered by partnerships, the permanent protection of Busseron Creek Fish & Wildlife Area is a win for conservation

and a win for Indiana, returning nearly 4,000 acres of land for all Hoosiers to enjoy,” said Dan Bortner, DNR director. “Whether you enjoy hunting, fishing, or viewing Indiana’s magnificent wildlife, we look forward to welcoming Hoosiers and visitors alike to

Busseron Creek when the property opens to the public in 2025.”

More information about Busseron Creek FWA and the land’s history is available, and video can be accessed on the DNR YouTube channel.

Ramblings: Hike or stroll?

By Annie Bright Guest Columnist

The booklet described the morning activities as a hike in pursuit of birds. The guide had birded on six continents. That word “pursuit” should have been a clue. My sisters were still putting on boots as the group dashed across Highway 12 and headed north. Not to worry, we will catch up with them when they stop to look at the first bird. Wrong! These people were hikers, not strollers. They were soon out of sight.

One sister insisted that I go catch up with

the group. I declined. The reason we attended the Bird Festival was to spend time together. I like to take my time to absorb nature, to appreciate the details. We walked down a road through the interdunal marsh. That is an area between old dune crests, formed before the last glacial recession of Lake Michigan and the current lakeside dune crests.

Several stateendangered species nest in the interdunal marsh, including the King Rail and the Virginia Rail and the American Bittern. Several warblers also nest there. The year before, I added the Virginia Rail to my bird list and was hoping to see one again. The small brown bird is difficult to spot among the rushes and cattails.

The roadside was a wildflower garden

of spring bloomers. In the murky water near the road, wild flags and marsh marigolds bloomed. Warblers filled the early morning air with their songs. Guessing their identity by their songs became a game. We laughed at the sound of a pileated woodpecker hammering away on a distant tree. That is a sound we have no trouble identifying.

A small yellow warbler started fluttering around, drawing attention to itself. “Sweet, sweet, sweet,” she sang as she tried to distract us. She flew from branch to branch, sometimes perching high in the treetops. My eagle-eyed sister, Bridget, spotted her nest first. The delicate structure was perched in a small tree about 15 feet above the ground. The top edge of the nest was festooned

with small pieces of pale lichen. As we watched the warbler, a woman cyclist stopped to see what had us so enthralled. Our stroll became a teaching moment as we shared our scant knowledge about the area, the Bird Festival and the warbler clan. The lady frequently rode her bike up that road and wanted to learn a bit about the beauty she passed. She too became enthralled by the little warbler. We took turns watching the bird with my binoculars before we continued our journeys. We turned off the road onto a trail through the marsh near the railroad tracks. The scent here was different than on the road. The aroma reminded me of a hay field. The recent rains had created large pools of water on the path. Most

of the pools were full of tadpoles. We watched the tiny black torpedoes zoom around trying to find a place to hide. The marsh is home to many species of birds, snakes, frogs and mammals. Some of them were waiting for us to pass so they could gobble up a tadpole. Soon we came to a puddle that was too large for us to walk around without stomping through the vegetation and mud. That mud can suck a boot off your foot if you are not careful. We retreated. As we made our way back to the parking lot, we saw the group we were supposed to be with coming down the road. I wonder if they gained as much from their hike as we experienced on our stroll.

‘til next time, Annie

It’s Just a Country State of Mind: The garden sessions

By Susan Anderson Guest Columnist

calling this column the “garden sessions.”

My earliest recollections of living in the country when I was a child involve gardening with my father. Gardening at my house was a family affair. Now you could say that my father was a gardening connoisseur. I remember that I hadn’t even started school yet when my father first introduced me to the concept of getting my hands in the soil.

My first task in the garden was pulling the weeds

around the new plants coming up in our garden. My dad showed me the difference between a weed and a plant, but his mistake was walking off and leaving me to my own devices. Yeah, I pulled the weeds and the plants. Needless to say, my father wasn’t very happy about it, but that was my very first lesson in gardening.

You would think after that he would’ve taken me off weeding duty, but that wasn’t the case. The next session, I was “pulling weeds” again. This time it was a row of beans. He gave me a bean plant and told me to pull up anything that didn’t look like that plant. I studied that little plant for a long time. In my young mind, everything looked like a weed. Once again, he left me unattended while he worked elsewhere. By the

time he came back, I must have pulled up a dozen bean plants.

My father believed that gardening was in my blood. I wasn’t quite sure what that meant, but I was going to find out. I was on weed duty every evening with my father that whole summer.

When the vegetables were done growing, they had to be picked. My poor mother had the job of canning and freezing all the vegetables. I was always afraid that I would end up having to do that too.

As I grew a little bigger, my parents sent me to visit my grandparents. I should have known that something was up, but I was pretty naïve. My grandfather was what you would call a master gardener. He formulated plans about his garden long before he

started planting it. He ordered seeds from catalogs. He would mull over those pages every evening. I was in awe of his wisdom.

After the seeds were ordered and arrived, he didn’t plant them right away. He believed in planting by the signs and dates. He faithfully followed the Old Farmer’s Almanac.

I was beginning to realize that I had entered the phase of the “garden sessions 2.0.” I would learn a lot during those summers at my grandparents’ house.

At least I got rewarded for my efforts. There was always a special dessert after dinner or a bag of candy waiting for me at the end of the day.

When I grew up, I started gardening myself. I actually loved it, and I had a knack for it too. I found myself reading

books on gardening and ordering seed catalogues. I began to cultivate some of the best gardens you have ever seen. Those garden sessions had paid off. And when I had children, it became a family affair. I wasn’t a taskmaster like my father, but I learned that I had a natural green thumb. My children sometimes enjoyed working in the garden and sometimes they didn’t. But we all enjoyed the bounty that we got from the garden.

I also learned to can and freeze vegetables. I had a garden for many years. It turned out to be more than a hobby. It became a way of life.

Now that my children are grown, I don’t grow big gardens like I used to. In fact, I like to go to the local farmers’ market and roadside

stands to buy fresh vegetables.

I realize now what my father meant about gardening being in my blood. What he really meant was that we pass it down from one generation to the next. Out of all my children, I have one who loves gardening as much as I do. It gives me a lot of joy to hear her talk about her garden.

I realize now that my father and my grandparents weren’t just planting seeds in the ground. They were planting seeds in me. For the future. And I planted those same seeds in my own children. There’s no greater gift than handing down our knowledge and wisdom to the next generation. And all that time I thought I was just pulling weeds. “Garden sessions 3.0” lives on! Summer is here!

— Susan