Morristown Junior/Senior High School hired from within its new Assistant Principal and Athletic Director.

At a special Shelby Eastern Schools board meeting Wednesday, Dan Theobald (photo) was approved to move into an administrative role at the Shelby County school.

Theobald is a 2003 Morristown graduate.

“I’ve been in multiple sports for a long time and being back at Morristown the last two years has felt like home,” said Theobald. “I have really enjoyed my time there being able to reconnect to people I maybe haven’t seen in 15 years. I have people I went to school with that I have their kids in class. It’s been really fun to get back invested in the community.

“With my sports background and, I guess, maybe I’m middle-aged now, so it seemed like the right step as well for my career to move into a leadership role. I am excited to be able to work with all the kids in all the sports versus just focusing on the one or two sports I coach and the classes I teach.”

Theobald, a History teacher the last two schools years at Morristown, has served as a cross country and track and field coach. With his new roles, Theobald will give up coaching track and field but plans to remain the school’s cross country coach.

Theobald is replacing Collin McCartt, who accepted an administration position at Rushville High School.

“With Dan, he expressed an interest in administration and I’ve always been of the mindset that great teachers make great administrators,” said Shelby Eastern School Superintendent Dr. Todd Hitchcock. “When we have an opportunity to promote from within, we like to consider it. It doesn’t always work, but in this case we think it does.”

The longer hours associated with being an athletic director will come second nature for Theobald.

“I coached three sports last year so I was busy year round anyway,” said Theobald with a smile. “My kids are involved in half the sports or like to go to them because of their classmates (competing), so it’s a win-win for us.”

With Theobald’s hiring, Shelby Eastern now has its administrative team at Morristown and Waldron secured. Brad Peterson is the new Athletic Director and Assistant Principal at Waldron High School, replacing Alex Engelbert.

Andrew Shores is the new Principal at Morristown Junior/Senior High School, replacing Jeremy Powers, who accepted the principal position at Benjamin Rush Middle School in Rushville.

“This fills our last administrative vacancy,” said Hitchcock. “We have a few open positions. We have a couple teaching spots at Morristown. I think we are fully staffed at Waldron.”

In other board business Wednesday:

• Approved the hiring of Todd Weaver as the new Maintenance Technician for the Morristown schools. Weaver has been with the Southwestern school system for the last nine years.
• Approved the bid from Blake Thompson for a drainage project on Morristown’s baseball field. The winning bid came in at $14,100 and met the school’s timeline for project completion.
• Approved an increase to breakfast and lunch prices at Shelby Eastern Schools. Elementary school lunch price will increase by 20 cents to $2.90 per day. The cost will be $3 at both high schools. The breakfast price will rise 15 cents to $1.75. The cost only affects those students not on free or reduced lunch.

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Preliminary charges have been filed in the incident that resulted in the death of Indiana State Police Trooper Aaron Smith on Wednesday.

Eddie P. Jones, Jr., 18 of Sikeston, Missouri, was driving the stolen 2016 Chevrolet Traverse. He has been preliminarily charged with murder.

A passenger, DeMareon L. Curry, 19, also from Sikeston, Missouri, has been preliminarily charged with auto theft, Level 5 felony.

The third passenger, a 15-year-old female, who was listed as a missing person from Missouri will be turned over to authorities from that state. She is not being charged in the trooper’s death.

According to Indiana State Police, INDOT video shows the suspect vehicle swerve at Trooper Aaron Smith as he attempted to deploy stop sticks in the vehicle’s path. The suspects crashed the SUV after colliding with Smith.

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Four teens were arrested by Greenfield Police on drug and gun charges.

Greenfield detectives were working proactive drug and firearms crime enforcement and stopped a vehicle in the area of State Street and New Road. The police department says that probable cause was established that led to a a search of the vehicle. Detectives found two guns, ammunition, multiple THC vape cartridges and several hundred dollars of cash.

Greenfield Police say that detectives are working to determine where the boys got the drugs and guns.

Four boys, two age 16 and two age 17, were taken into custody.  Two boys were released to guardians charged with possession of marijuana. The other two were transferred to an out-of-county juvenile detention facility. They have been charged with illegal possession of a firearm by a minor and dealing marijuana.

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The Indiana State Police is mourning the loss of one of its own as a result of a vehicle crash incident which occurred Wednesdsay on Ronald Reagan Parkway, north of I-70.

The crash claimed the life of Trooper Aaron N. Smith, 33, of Franklin, who served with the Indiana State Police for nearly five years. Smith was a Johnson County native and graduate of Whiteland High School.

The preliminary investigation by the Indiana State Police indicates that at approximately 8:40 p.m. Wednesday, Trooper Smith was assisting other troopers on Ronald Reagan Parkway with a pursuit of a stolen vehicle. Trooper Smith was deploying stop sticks when he was struck by the suspect vehicle and critically injured. Emergency medical care was rendered at the scene, and he was rushed to Eskenazi Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Trooper Smith is survived by his wife. Family notifications have been made.

“This is a tremendously sad day for the entire Indiana State Police family. We will band together as we always do in support of Trooper Smith's family, friends and co-workers”, said Indiana State Police Superintendent Douglas G. Carter.

The suspect driver involved in this incident, along with an adult and juvenile passenger were all transported to Indianapolis hospitals for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

This is still an ongoing investigation. All findings will be turned over to the Hendricks County Prosecutor for review and determination of any further charges that may be filed.

The Indiana State Police was assisted at the scene by the Plainfield Police Department, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, Plainfield Fire Department, and Troopers from neighboring Indiana State Police - Putnamville Post.

Gov. Holcomb offered the following statement statement regarding fallen Trooper Aaron Smith:

“Janet and I offer our deepest condolences to the wife, family and close friends of Trooper Aaron Smith.

Trooper Smith lived and died a hero. His everlasting inspiration is a painful reminder of what the best among us sacrifice everyday when they leave the house. I encourage every Hoosier so inclined to right now stop and shower Trooper Smith’s bride with prayer and be there for his fellow law enforcement members so shaken by this heartbreaking loss.” 

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The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has forecasted another statewide Air Quality Action Day (AQAD) for Thursday.

Current air monitor readings across the state remain very high as the Canadian wildfire plume continues to move slowly through the state. Particulates are expected to be in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups range (Orange).

IDEM encourages everyone to help reduce PM_2.5 by making changes to daily habits. You can:

• Carpool or use public transportation.
• Avoid using the drive-through and combine errands into one trip.
• Turn off engines instead of idling for long periods of time.
• Avoid using gas-powered equipment.
• Conserve energy by turning off lights and setting the air conditioner to a higher setting;
• Use propane gas instead of charcoal when grilling outdoors;
• Reminder: Indiana’s open burning laws make it illegal to burn trash and generally prohibit open burning, visit IN.gov/openburning for more information.

PM_2.5 is composed of microscopic dust, soot, and liquid that settles deep into the lungs and cannot be easily exhaled. Those people at risk are particularly vulnerable after several days of high PM_2.5 exposure. Sensitive Groups should reduce or avoid exertion and heavy work outdoors during these conditions. IDEM examines weather patterns and PM_2.5 readings to make daily air quality forecasts. Air Quality Action Days generally occur when weather conditions such as light winds, snow cover, higher humidity, and lower atmospheric inversions trap pollutants close to the ground.

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With a grant from the Blue River Community Foundation, Shelby County Babe Ruth will finish off a fence-replacement project it started in recent years.

With a $20,000 grant, all three baseball diamonds at Donald L. Johnson Park will have new fencing from the end of the dugouts and all around the outfield.

“About seven or eight years ago we did a grant to replace some of the fencing, from the front of the dugout around home plate to the other dugout,” said Mark Tackett, President of Shelby County Babe Ruth.

The new grant will finish off replacing the fencing around the three diamonds and add to the overall look of the ballpark which services more than 500 kids.

The outfield fence on diamond  No. 1 was damaged in 2022 when a tree from a neighboring property fell after a storm rolled through the area.

“It fell right by our scoreboard. We were lucky it didn’t get the scoreboard,” said Tackett.

The grant covers nearly two-thirds of the fence replacement cost and the organization is working with a fencing company to reasonably cover the remaining costs.

Tackett expects the fence replacement to start and be completed in November.

“I am really looking forward to freshening up (the fences) and not having that rust showing,” he said.

The summer league regular season is now complete. Postseason tournaments started Monday and run to Friday’s scheduled championship games.

Registration is already underway for the Fall League, which will begin the first week of August, according to Tackett, and finish before the Shelbyville school system’s fall break.

For registration information, go to shelbybr.com.

The Blue River Foundation Community Grant process awarded eight more grants in addition to the Shelby County Babe Ruth grant.

• Arts for Learning Indiana – Awarded $7,117 for interactive programming at Southwestern Elementary School through dance, song, craft and visual expression.
• Morristown Community Development Partnership – Awarded $35,000 to support an all-inclusive playground at Morristown Park.
• Purdue Manufacturing Extension – Awarded $21,500 for the Manufacturing Skills for Success Pilot Program (MS4S) through Shelby County Community Corrections and Probation. This program provides justice-involved individuals with a foundation of manufacturing knowledge with the goal of providing them the skills necessary to gain full-time livable wage employment in manufacturing.
• Shelby Community Band – Awarded $15,000 to support the purchase of new percussion equipment that will allow the band to continue to provide free concerts to the community, give more opportunities for individual music expression, and explore new opportunities in connecting the community with music.
• Shelby County Players – Awarded $20,000 for Performances on the Plaza, a program that will provide local musicians and artists the opportunity to showcase their talents in downtown Shelbyville.
• Shelbyville Parks and Recreation – Awarded $20,000 to support installation of emergency call lights along the Blue River Trail System.

The foundation, in conjunction with Major Health Partners, also funded two organizations with applications that aligned with the mission of both foundations.

• Morristown Elementary School – Awarded a total of $6,500 for the All Kids Bike Program geared toward students ages 3-7. This program teaches children to ride a bike in a fun way which improves overall fitness, introduces healthy activities to children during their early years, and provides an opportunity for students to learn something at school they can later do together with friends and family that’s free and fun.
• Shelby Senior Services, Inc. – Awarded $7,638 for Hypertension Control Program that is aimed at improving hypertension self-management through small group educational sessions. This program helps develop short-term and long-term action plans to improve heart health.

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The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has issued an Air Quality Action Day (AQAD) in the Unhealthy Air Quality Index range and is forecasting high levels of fine particles (PM_2.5) in the air for Wednesday in the following regions: 

• Central/East Central Indiana, including the cities of Bloomington, Brookville, Columbus, Frankfort, Indianapolis, Greensburg, Kokomo, Lebanon, Martinsville, Muncie, Richmond and all other cities within the area.
• North Central Indiana, including the cities of Elkhart, Goshen, Knox, Logansport, Plymouth, Peru, South Bend, Warsaw, Winamac and all other cities within the area.
• Northeast Indiana, including the cities of Angola, Auburn, Decatur, Fort Wayne, Hartford, Huntington City, LaGrange, Marion, Portland, Wabash and all other cities within the area.
• Northwest Indiana, including the cities of Crown Point, Gary, Hammond, Kentland, LaPorte, Michigan City, Portage, Rensselaer, Valparaiso and all other cities within the area.
• Southeast Indiana, including the cities of Brownstown, Corydon, Jeffersonville, Madison, New Albany, Salem, Versailles and all other cities within the area.
• Southwest Indiana, including the cities of Bedford, Bloomfield, Evansville, Huntingburg, Mount Vernon, Paoli, Princeton, Rockport, Tell City, Vincennes and all other cities within the area.
• Western/West Central Indiana, including the cities of Crawfordsville, Covington, Delphi, Fowler, Greencastle, Lafayette, Newport, Monticello, Spencer, Sullivan, Terre Haute and all other cities within the area.

Current air monitor readings across the state are rising as the Canadian wildfire plume moves from north to south. Forecast models are all pointing toward very high levels Tuesday and Wednesday.  

Some municipalities have additional open burning restrictions on AQADs. For more information, see idem.IN.gov/openburning/laws-and-rules. 

Hoosiers are encouraged to visit smogwatch.IN.gov to view current and forecasted conditions and subscribe to email alerts.

IDEM encourages everyone to help reduce PM_2.5 by making changes to daily habits. You can:

• Carpool or use public transportation
• Avoid using the drive-through and combine errands into one trip
• Turn off engines instead of idling for long periods of time
• Avoid using gas-powered equipment
• Conserve energy by turning off lights and setting the air conditioner to a higher setting
• Use propane gas instead of charcoal when grilling outdoors
• Reminder: Indiana’s open burning laws make it illegal to burn trash and generally prohibit open burning, visit IN.gov/openburning for more information.

PM_2.5 is composed of microscopic dust, soot, and liquid that settles deep into the lungs and cannot be easily exhaled. Those people at risk are particularly vulnerable after several days of high PM_2.5 exposure. Everyone should reduce or avoid exertion and heavy work outdoors during these conditions. 

IDEM examines weather patterns and PM_2.5 readings to make daily air quality forecasts. Air Quality Action Days generally occur when weather conditions such as light winds, snow cover, higher humidity, and lower atmospheric inversions trap pollutants close to the ground.

Buffy Powers' vision for the Longest Day Walk in Shelby County continues to come into focus as the third annual event is now in the books.

The event was held Friday at Blue River Memorial Park in Shelbyville to raise awareness and funds to fight Alzheimer's and dementia.

Powers says it takes great community support and partnerships to wage the battle for the Longest Day Walk.

Jonah DeArmitt utilized Southwestern High School to the fullest before graduating. The four-sport athlete, student council vice-president and band and choir member is leaving Southwestern as the Class of 2023 Salutatorian.

“There are a few more clubs I could have done, one or two maybe,” said DeArmitt. “For the most part, I was involved in everything.”

With his Spartan career now over, DeArmitt has more time to work and prepare for his next educational track – studying Aircraft Maintenance Technology through Vincennes University.

“I was looking at programs and my mom mentioned Vincennes has this program,” he said. “I have an aunt who works at Center Grove and all their dual credit classes are through Vincennes. She said they have this aircraft maintenance program and you could probably go for free. I said, ‘Let’s do that.’ I love airplanes.”

The two-year program through Vincennes is paired with a second two-year program through Purdue University. All of his classes will be held at the Indianapolis International Airport.

“I will work for an airline or any small airports,” said DeArmitt of his goal after getting his degree.

DeArmitt just recently returned from a 12-day trip to Portugal and Spain with his grandfather – a family tradition.

“My grandfather has taken all his grandkids on one trip wherever they wanted to go,” he said.

DeArmitt and his grandfather, Walt DeArmitt, visited Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, and Porto and stopped in Madrid and Barcelona before returning home.

DeArmitt is currently planning a second trip with his other grandparents to the northeast to visit American Revolution sites and museums before heading to Maine to eat fresh lobster.

A member of five sectional championship teams at Southwestern, DeArmitt is enjoying a summer without non-stop workouts in preparation for the next season.

“It is such a relief,” he said with a smile. “I remember being in pain all the time from these summer workouts. Coach is having you lift (weights) and then having you shoot. You can never shoot after you lift. It is so hard to shoot after you lift. Your form is just awful.

“I am honestly so glad I don’t have to do basketball. It kept me busy and I like the people but the pain … all the pain.”

DeArmitt is the youngest of three children for Michael and Jennifer DeArmitt. He has an older sister, a nurse in Columbus, Indiana, and older brother who attends Indiana University.

“We’ve been in Southwestern for over 10 years now,” he said proudly.

As one of his final duties as a Spartan, DeArmitt had to deliver a speech at graduation.

“It was terrifying. I was scared … I was so scared, especially when I got up there and was flipping the pages and realized it wasn’t the current version of my speech,” said DeArmitt. “But it all panned out. I really just talked about some of the more funny moments in our careers, funny moments at dances, funny occurrences that just happen … like we had a student who broke his arm playing Twister one time. They took away our Twister mat. I was so mad about it. We were so mad about that.

“At the end, I started talking about our last this and our last that – our last recess, our last lunch together, our last class period together as an actual class. It was a transition from being really funny to hitting the heart strings in the last moments.”

DeArmitt was quick to point out how much he will miss the staff at Southwestern more than anything else.

“Just knowing the entire staff, they are all wonderful people, every single one of them – especially the lunch ladies,” he said. “I talked to the lunch ladies every single day. I will miss them so much.”

This is the eleventh, and final story, in a series of feature stories from the Shelby County Post on Shelby County’s Class of 2023 valedictorians and salutatorians.

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After more than a decade of serving as state representative for House District 67, State Rep. Randy Frye (R-Greensburg) has announced his plans to retire from the Indiana General Assembly.

Frye's resignation will formally take effect July 8. He represents portions of Decatur, Jefferson, Jennings and Ripley counties. During his 13 years in the state legislature, Frye served as chair of the House Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee, and as a member of the House Roads and Transportation Committee, and the House Utilities, Energy and Telecommunications Committee.

"Over the last few years, I've been dealing with multiple health issues, and it's time to focus on my well-being and my family," Frye said. "It has been the honor of my lifetime to represent the hardworking Hoosiers of House District 67. Whether it was working to make Indiana's tax climate better for everyday people and businesses, supporting our men and women in uniform, or standing up for the sanctity of life, I believe we've made tremendous progress during my time in the legislature and Indiana's future is only getting brighter."

Frye said taxpayers are expected to save an estimated $430 million over the next two years via tax relief passed during this year's legislative session. Thanks to the acceleration of individual state income tax cuts, hardworking Hoosiers will have one of the lowest rates in the nation by 2027. Frye also successfully authored a new law this session exempting active-duty military members from the state income tax starting next year, which could also attract more out-of-state service members and their families to Indiana, and help fill the state's workforce pipeline.

In 2022, Frye supported legislation to further protect unborn children and Hoosier mothers after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, which gave states the ability to act. According to the Indiana Department of Health, the number of abortion procedures in the state dropped 50 percent during the year following the ruling. Frye said Indiana is one of the most pro-life states in the nation, and he stood up for the sanctity of life throughout his legislative career.

To protect newborns, Frye supported efforts to expand Indiana's Safe Haven law, which allows a parent to anonymously surrender their newborn less than 30 days old, so long as there is no harm to the child. He also authored legislation allowing for the use of Safe Haven Baby Boxes. These safety devices are temperature controlled with an alarm system that alerts first responders when an infant is placed inside. Safe Haven Baby Boxes were recently dedicated in Ripley County, including Versailles and Milan. There are over 100 baby boxes installed across Indiana and over 20 babies have been safely surrendered.

"Randy spent his legislative career as a strong advocate for all Hoosiers who serve or served our state or nation in uniform. Whether that's standing up for the men and women in the fire service, law enforcement or military, he understood their needs and worked hard to find solutions on their behalf," said House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers). "I wish him well in retirement."

The Southeast Indiana lawmaker authored legislation in 2015, creating the Indiana State Fire Academy, which established a standard curriculum for all firefighting units in the state. Frye served with the Indianapolis Fire Department for more than 20 years before becoming a state legislator.

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Residents of Johnson and Monroe counties are asked to contact Indiana 211 to report damage from Sunday's tornado.

To help establish a comprehensive assessment of damages, residents can call 211 or visit the Indiana 211 website. Collecting assessments via this process will help IDHS determine damage estimates and develop the next course of action in the disaster recovery process.

Currently, only residents in Johnson and Monroe counties should utilize Indiana 211 for damage reports. Other counties should reach out to their local emergency manager.

Agricultural damage should be reported to the Purdue Extension. 

The National Weather Service has confirmed four tornadoes that impacted five counties.  An EF2 has been recorded in Martin and Johnson counties. Wind speeds associated with the Johnson County tornado that caused heavy damage in the Center Grove area have been measured at 115 mph.

The Indiana Court of Appeals Monday issued an opinion upholding all convictions and the 650 year sentence for Steven Ray Hessler – the serial home-invasion rapist who terrorized Shelbyville in the early-mid 1980s. 

Hessler was sentenced on April 1, 2022, to 650 years in prison for two counts of Rape, six counts of Unlawful Deviate Conduct, seven counts of Burglary Resulting In Bodily Injury, three counts of Criminal Deviate Conduct, and one count of Robbery – each as a Class A Felony. The charges stem from a series of home-invasion sexual assaults from 1982-1985. He was convicted on March 3, 2022, after an 8-day trial.

Hessler’s appeal focused on three issues: alleged prosecutorial misconduct, double jeopardy, and a claim that the 650-year sentence was too long considering his offenses and his character. Of the 32 instances of what the defense claimed were prosecutorial misconduct, the Court found that the claims were unsupported by the facts, and that they did not place the defendant in grave legal peril. 

As to the double jeopardy claim, the defense claimed that the same injury could not be used to elevate the level of offense for the sex crimes he committed and also the burglary counts. Two of the 3-judge panel of the Court of Appeals disagreed with this claim, while one judge sided with the defense. But all three judges agreed that the aggravate sentence of 650 years was justified.

Hessler can now ask the Supreme Court to take a look at the case, which the Supreme Court can either accept or decline. 

Hessler terrorized the Shelby County area between August 14, 1982, and August 17, 1985 - breaking into several homes in the middle of the night while armed and wearing a mask, and attacking, raping, binding, threatening, and sexually torturing several local women and one 16-year-old child. Many of the victims were tied up – others were not – as he stole cash and other certain items before sexually brutalizing the women. 

In his final local assault, he struck a male victim several times after he had handcuffed and hog-tied the victim, resulting in that victim being in a coma for months, and then a rehab facility for several more months, learning again to talk, and to walk with two canes. He fell daily, and for years now has been confined to a wheelchair. 

The local attacks stopped in the late 1980s. Authorities found that Hessler had been convicted of a rape in another county in the late 1980s when the Shelby County attacks stopped. He received a 20-year sentence. Hessler was eventually released from the Department Of Corrections about two months before a requirement took effect that requires inmates to submit a DNA sample, or that DNA would have resulted in a match to the Shelby County crimes years ago.

Shelby County Prosecutor Brad Landwerlen says Hessler was generally very cautious, wiping down the scene and taking items that he had touched with him. Fortunately, he left some DNA at one scene though DNA was not then yet used for forensic investigations. 

At the recommendation of retired Indiana State Trooper Mike Kolls (who worked with the original task force investigating the attacks), authorities then sent some of the DNA to Parabon Nanolabs, who specializes in geneological DNA identification.  Parabon also solved the Golden State Killer case with this technology. Parabon sent back results that caused Shelby County investigators to focus on Hessler and one other person. Eventually, they were able to obtain Hessler’s DNA sample from an envelope he licked to send in a utility payment, and it matched the DNA from the scene. 

The prosecution was made more difficult because a previous task force had arrested and charged another local man with the first few of the attacks in 1983. In an odd turn of events, that man turned out to be Hessler’s cousin. Further investigation confirmed that person’s alibis for the evenings of certain attacks, as well as other information that led to dismissal of the case. Still, this created an additional hurdle to address in this trial. 

Another suspect came up in trial as well – Michael Kenyan (aka – the “Illinois Enema Bandit”), who had committed a series of home-invasion sexual attacks in the late 1970s similar to those in Shelby County and who had been released from prison before the county’s attacks began. The Shelby County Prosecutor’s Office sent officers out to Arizona in 2004, where Kenyan lives now, to obtain DNA, interview Kenyan, and perform a forensic examination of his computer. That eliminated him as a suspect.

After receiving the DNA results matching Hessler to the DNA at one scene, we executed a search warrant at Hessler’s residence in the early morning hours on August 17, 2020, where we hit a bit of a gold mine.  We located photographs stolen from one local victim, and computers which showed that he had been researching and tracking down the two victims from that attack as well as two of our other victims (he had even downloaded a Google Earth streetview photo of one victim’s house in Georgia). 

He had also been similarly cyberstalking the victim from his previous attempted rape conviction. We also located certain coats that matched coats described by some of the victims, with ski masks in the pockets, and various specific items that matched items used in various of the attacks, such as handcuffs, enema bags, multiple containers of Vaseline, etc. We located other items of interest – such as about 30 women’s panties, each individually baggied. He stole panties in some of our local attacks, though after this passage of time, none could be identified by our victims as being theirs.

The most recent detectives to work and solve the investigation are Shelby County Sheriff’s Detective David Tilford and Indiana State Police Detective Paul Baker, but without several prior investigators doing things correctly, they would have still been unable to prove the case. Huge credit also goes out to the Indiana State Police Crime Laboratory, who allowed exceptions to their evidence submission limits and conducted a mountain of DNA analysis and forensic computer/digital media examinations – both leading to some truly damning evidence.

Prosecutor Landwerlen was assisted in the prosecution of the case by Chief Deputy Prosecutor Scott Spears and Deputy Prosecutor Brandon Robinson. Landwerlen said it took everything they had, plus the detectives and the coordinated assistance of many others to complete the investigation and prosecute the case, which had been investigated by various officers, agencies, and task forces throughout the years.

Coordinating the trial also proved to be quite a task, as the prosecution called 27 witnesses – some repeatedly (up to six times), and whittled thousands of pieces of possible evidence down to just over 300 exhibits actually admitted. Witnesses were brought in from Florida, Georgia, and Ohio, as well as a Secret Service computer technician from the east coast. 

Various other agencies played varying roles to solve and to bring this case to trial as well (including but not limited to Shelbyville Police Department, Rush County Sheriff’s Department, Rushville Police Department, Secret Service, various FBI agents, Greensburg PD, Decatur County Sheriff’s Dept., Decatur County Prosecutor’s Office, a detective with San Antonio Police Department, an officer with the Canton, Ohio Police Department, police officers in Arizona and Illinois, etc.).  Huge credit also goes out to the Indiana State Police Crime Lab, who, in an extremely rare move, lifted the restrictions on the number of exhibits that they would accept for DNA analysis and forensic computer analysis.

Landwerlen calls Steven Ray Hessler one of the most evil, dangerous, sadistic predators that he’s had the pleasure of prosecuting in his 30-plus-year career. 

Landwerlen notes that he has contacted the victims that he could to notify them that the Court of Appeals ruled against Hessler, and they are very happy with the news. 

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The Southwestern High School Class of 2023 Valedictorian has her sights set high in the air – quite literally.

McKinley Correll has been accepted into the Professional Flight program at Purdue University.

“It’s a pretty tough program to get into,” said Correll. “I was lucky enough to be one of the people selected to be in it.”

The program will provide multiple aviation options for Correll upon graduation. She is leaning toward being a commercial pilot for an airline but there will be private pilot options as well. She also wants to work with a youth aviation program to help other kids, especially girls, find their way into aviation.

“Columbus has this Young Eagles program where you can teach kids about flight,” she said. “I don’t know if Shelbyville has one, so maybe enhance that and make it more popular for young people who are wanting to go into that field.”

A chance conversation with a fellow Southwestern student that is part of the Young Eagles program in Columbus peaked her interest in flight. Correll was able to set up a flight with a pilot and was instantly hooked.

“We (flew) over the school and over my house,” she said. “It was amazing. Immediately when I got up in the air, it is supposed to be scary but I felt so at peace. It was beautiful up there. There is nothing like it.”

Two years through her educational track at Southwestern and ranked No. 1 in her class, Correll had no clear direction for her life.

“(Flying) is not something I’ve always wanted do,” she explained. “Before then, it was being a doctor or something different. For the longest time, it was pharmacy and I don’t know why because I hate Chemistry. I absolutely hate Chemistry.”

Correll even considered entering the military. And then she found aviation and considered applying to the Air Force Academy.

“My mom said absolutely not. My dad was like that’s the coolest thing ever. My dad was really on board,” said the youngest daughter of Curt and Jeanne Correll.

Correll settled on the Purdue option – if she could get accepted. She received her confirmation email from Purdue on the way to a high school basketball game with the Spartans.

“It was crazy and surreal,” she said. “It was like one of those experiences where you feel like time has stopped.”

Correll is now working diligently to earn her private pilot’s license.

“I have to get it before a certain date. It advances my core schedule at Purdue if I can get it now,” she said.

One of Southwestern’s most decorated athletes, Correll earned All-Mid-Hoosier Conference honors in golf, basketball and tennis her senior season.

“I really didn’t expect it,” said Correll. “With the graduating class last year, we lost some amazing athletes. I was just going to keep going for the experience and not expect any (individual) success.”

With her graduation, though, her schedule is a lot lighter than in previous summers.

“I feel so lazy,” she said. “I was (here at Southwestern) working out with my cousins and they are doing the (basketball) league here when it used to be at Edinburgh. I’m like, this is so weird. I don’t have to spend five days a week here. It’s nice because my days aren’t filled with anything but work. I feel like I need to start running or something. It’s nice but it’s weird.”

The Professional Flight program at Purdue comes with added expenses for Correll, which will keep her busy working throughout the summer.

“It will be a struggle especially since the program I am in is like three times the amount, but I guess they are not going to let a 19-year-old fly a plane for free,” she said.

This is the tenth in a series of feature stories from the Shelby County Post on Shelby County’s Class of 2023 valedictorians and salutatorians.

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Mark Mason, of Shelbyville, has been named director of charity gaming for the Indiana Gaming Commission (IGC).           

Mason had been assistant director of charity gaming for nearly six years. His promotion follows the retirement of Diane Freeman after her 40 years of employment in state government positions.

Prior to his position with the IGC, Mason spent more than a decade managing security and regulatory affairs for Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg and its parent company, Penn National Gaming. It was a position he accepted after retiring from a law enforcement career with the Indiana State Police that spanned more than 25 years, taking him from the rank of Trooper to Major.

An article in last month’s publication of Indiana Gaming Insight highlighted Freeman’s retirement: “Freeman had been the only person ever in charge of implementing and monitoring charity gaming for the State, having assumed the regulatory role upon the legalization of charity gaming in the early 1990s when she was working for the Department of Revenue.”

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The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has issued an Air Quality Action Day (AQAD) and is forecasting high ozone levels for Saturday, June 24, in the following areas:

• Central/East Central Indiana, including the cities of: Bloomington, Brookville, Columbus, Frankfort, Indianapolis, Shelbyville, Greensburg, Kokomo, Lebanon, Martinsville, Muncie, Richmond and all other cities within the area.

• North Central Indiana, including the cities of: Elkhart, Goshen, Knox, Logansport, Plymouth, Peru, Rochester, South Bend, Warsaw, Winamac and all other cities within the area.

• Northwest Indiana, including the cities of: Crown Point, Gary, Hammond, Kentland, LaPorte, Michigan City, Portage, Rensselaer, Valparaiso and all other cities within the area.

• Southeast Indiana, including the cities of: Brownstown, Corydon, Jeffersonville, Madison, New Albany, Salem, Versailles and all other cities within the area.

• Southwest Indiana, including the cities of: Bedford, Bloomfield, Evansville, Huntingburg, Mount Vernon, Paoli, Princeton, Rockport, Tell City, Vincennes and all other cities within the area.

• Western/West Central Indiana, including the cities of: Crawfordsville, Covington, Delphi, Fowler, Greencastle, Lafayette, Newport, Monticello, Spencer, Sullivan, Terre Haute and all other cities within the area.

Cooper Lay tried to find the “perfect opportunity” at an out-of-state school. Nothing ever felt right which made Purdue University look even better.

The Shelbyville High School Class of 2023 Salutatorian will study Computer Science at Purdue beginning this fall.

“Purdue wasn’t my first choice because I didn’t really want to be somewhere in Indiana,” said Lay. “My family took a road trip to Massachusetts and we saw places like Harvard and MIT and Yale. And I went to California in the summer to take classes at Stanford. All those campuses are amazing but I never really found a place that connected with me.

“I would like to say I went to Purdue’s campus and it was perfect. It wasn’t like that, but Purdue’s campus did really resonate with me. I really liked it.”

Lay, the son of Bill and Corrina Lay, leaned on advice he got from a teacher with regard to his college choice.

“One of my teachers said they saw college as if you could live anywhere for four years or eight years of your life, where you could have some of the responsibilities of life, but not all of them, where would you want to be?” Lay stated.

What Lay realized about Purdue was it presented the right academic environment for him.

“They way I think about college, the campus is very important and the academics, but the people are very important for me too,” he said. “I think about these big colleges, like Ivy League where the students are very inspiring to me, if I was working there I think I would work harder to be on everyone’s level.

“I think Purdue has that too. I think Purdue, being an engineering school, even though I am not going into engineering, is a place where they really like innovation and hard work to get what you want, even something small.”

Lay envisions himself as a long-term student, even casually mentioning being a professor would be “cool.”

“I really like math but there is not a lot of money in that so Computer Science is like the happy medium, very creative and I like that, but it also involves a lot of math,” he said. “Software engineering or website development is something I see as where I can do what I love but it also can let me sustain a life.”

With a birth date one day after the Shelbyville school system’s registration deadline, Lay always felt advanced in the early stages of his educational track.

“In preschool, I don’t think I was a standout student. My birthday is the day after registration for preschool so I had to wait another year,” he said. “So when I got into preschool, I got more attention because I was more developed.

“When they really started treating me differently was in kindergarten. They pulled me out for math classes. They put me in first grade math in kindergarten. I don’t know if it was deserved but that’s what they did.”

With graduation complete, Lay is enjoying his free time to read more and prepare himself for college life.

“I think it is really exciting,” he said. “When I went to Stanford, a big problem with it was I felt like I was on vacation. I went there and the campus was so extravagant, not like anything I’ve seen before. I felt like I couldn’t be at home.

“Because I’ve had that experience, going to Purdue … I hope I can find somewhere that feels like home. Becoming a freshman again is very exciting for me. I can have the change again to find somewhere that I really enjoy and feel comfortable.”

This is the ninth in a series of feature stories from the Shelby County Post on Shelby County’s Class of 2023 valedictorians and salutatorians.

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The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office says it has identified a suspect and vehicle involved in a hit-and-run that injured a 13-year-old bicyclist.

On June 21, a search warrant was obtained for a suspect vehicle. That vehicle is now at the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office for processing. Detectives report numerous, tedious hours following leads, visiting locations across several counties, speaking to witnesses, and reviewing public and private camera footage.

Currently, investigators are still following tips to gather additional information and evidence before filing criminal charges. To protect the integrity of the investigation, the suspect is not yet being named until the case moves further.

The family of the victim is being informed as the investigation continues. A suspect name will be released once official charges are filed.

The juvenile is still in the hospital in critical condition.

Around 10 p.m. last Saturday, Hancock County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the area of State Road 109 in Wilkinson for a juvenile struck by a car. A passerby observed a child on the ground next to a bicycle and called 911.

The 13-year-old male had his eyes open but was unable to speak. He was transported by air ambulance to Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis in critical condition.

During the investigation the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office asked anyone with any information to contact detectives at 317-477-1199. They also asked that anyone living on State Road 109 between State Road 234 and the Dollar General in Wilkinson to check security camera footage from approximately 9:45 p.m. and 10:10 p.m. Saturday night.

Isabella Bradburn wanted a challenging educational environment.

Little did she know she found it as a freshman at Shelbyville High School when she did a project for her Preparing for College and Career class on Northwestern University.

 “I chose Northwestern just because,” said Bradburn of her PCC class project. “I didn’t think anything of it just … oh purple (school colors) … cool.

“My junior year when I started my college search, I found this actually does sound like the perfect school for me.”

The Shelbyville Class of 2023 Valedictorian plans to study Biology at Northwestern.

Bradburn applied early decision which meant it was an application that got sent in before the main deadline. Once accepted, she said, it meant she had to withdraw any other applications.

“I love everything about Northwestern,” she said. “It’s an R1 school so that checked a box immediately. The academic component, it is not only a rigorous and prestigious university but they have a quarter system which allows for a lot more flexibility for (more) classes.”

The R1 designation means it is a university “at the forefront of research and innovation.” Bradburn believes a research setting is in her future but her love of learning could take her in many directions.

“The flexibility part was really important to me because I don’t want to be there on a career path and study what I need to do to make money,” she said. “I really like learning about the world. It’s an opportunity for me to learn. Like Linguistics, I think I am going to minor or double major in. I know I won’t use it for my career but it’s still an opportunity to learn about stuff that really interests me just for the sake of it.”

With campus located in the Chicago suburb of Evanston, Bradburn knows the location will allow her to spread her wings while not being too far from home.

“It’s far enough away to be away from home but not too far that I can’t make a weekend trip if I want to,” she said. “Evanston is a really nice suburb of Chicago. It’s kind of like being in the city (Chicago) but also isolated enough that I won’t be entirely overwhelmed from it.”

Bradburn’s arrival on campus will be the first time she has had an educational experience without one of her parents being nearby. Christina Bradburn was a speech therapist during her time at Loper Elementary School and her father, Vince Bradburn, is a teacher at SHS.

Bradburn was active in band and academic teams while at Shelbyville and recently returned from the Shelbyville marching band trip to Disney World in Orlando, Florida.

“I will miss the small town sense of community,” said Bradburn. “When I got to Evanston, I am going to walk past so many strangers I’ve never seen in my life. Here, just walking through Walmart I recognize a lot of faces. It’s that sense of community that will be missed.”

Between Northwestern’s need-based financial scholarships and additional scholarships she has earned, Bradburn will have much of her undergraduate education paid for before she graduates. Amongst her many honors, Bradburn was one of eight students selected as Honorable Mention to the 2023 Governor’s STEM Team. She also was selected as a Regional Academic All-Star by the Indiana Association of School Principals.

Bradburn also was chosen a semifinalist in the 68^th Annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

This is the eighth in a series of feature stories from the Shelby County Post on Shelby County’s Class of 2023 valedictorians and salutatorians.

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A request by the Rush County Sheriff's Department has intensified the search for a missing girl.

Valerie Tindall, 17, has been the focus of a Silver Alert.  Tindall was last seen on June 7. Since the alert was issued Rush County authorities have asked for anyone with information to call them.  Now, a more specific request has been made.

Property owners, notably between Shelbyville and Homer/Arlington, have been asked to check their properties. Those that have deep creek beds, low level fields, ravines and properties off the roadways where a vehicle could be hidden are encouraged to check those areas.  Also, any barns or outbuildings should be checked.

For drivers in the area, they are asked to keep their eyes open for any areas where a vehicle could have left the roadway and not easily be seen.

Tindall was reported to be operating a green 2000 Honda Accord with Indiana license plate - ZYK833.

Valerie Tindall is a white female, 5'6", 162 pounds.  She was wearing a light blue shirt, jean shorts and sandals when last seen on June 7.

A Columbus man was arrested on child exploitation charges following a search warrant at a Bartholomew County residence.

The investigation by Indiana State Police-Versailles Post, began in August 2022 after a cybertip was received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. After a nearly ten-month investigation, investigators executed a search warrant at a residence on Poshard Drive in Columbus.

During the execution of the search warrant, additional evidence was collected which led to the arrest of Joshua J. Johnson, 29, of Columbus. He was taken into custody and incarcerated at the Bartholomew County Jail on preliminary charges of Child Exploitation-Dissemination of Child Pornography, Level 5 Felony and Child Exploitation-Possession of Child Pornography, Level 6 Felony.

The investigation is ongoing with additional charges being possible.

Individuals cannot currently carry alcohol purchased at Shelbyville establishments or vendors around the Public Square during downtown events.

That will change after the Common Council approved the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area ordinance Wednesday morning at City Hall.

“We had a meeting with a lot of the bar owners downtown and representatives from the church next to us here about a month ago and there were mixed emotions on it,” said councilman Scott Furgeson in the council pre-meeting. “One bar owner did not really care for it much.

“What this does is give everybody the opportunity to free carry alcohol downtown, which is currently against the law. It will allow somebody from Pudder’s to grab a beer and go outside and enjoy the music or whatever. I think it is what we want as a city and what the mayor envisioned when we re-did the downtown. I think it’s a good ordinance to have. I think it’s a positive for the city, not a negative.”

The Downtown Outdoor Refreshment Area includes all of the Public Square and extends south on Harrison St. to Broadway St. and east along E. Washington St. and Jackson St. to Pike St.

Downtown establishments currently have designated seating areas outside their businesses that are cordoned off to keep people from leaving with alcohol. The new ordinance will allow for the cordoned off areas to be removed.

“We’ve been discussing this for years,” said Shelbyville Mayor Tom DeBaun in the pre-meeting. “It allows us to eliminate the stanchions as well because we get a lot of complaints about how much space we are taking up on the Public Square for seating. In the end, this gives us more of a free-flowing atmosphere.”

The common council ordinance follows statewide approval for downtown refreshment areas that goes into effect July 1.

Brandy Coomes, Executive Director of Mainstreet Shelbyville, lauded the ordinance that will loosen restrictions for downtown events.

“As a statewide program, Indiana Mainstreet has lobbied for this to go through,” she said. “It gives more freedom of drawing people downtown and having events and going through less red tape once all the steps are established in our local community.”

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WALDRON -- With one final push, a strong performance in a dual-credit class, Lucas Mitchell earned the Salutatorian honor at Waldron High School for the Class of 2023.

The basketball standout will continue his playing career at Wabash College in Crawfordsville, Indiana, and major in Economics with a minor in Business.

A member of Waldron’s 1,000-point career scoring club, Mitchell is excited to fulfill his dream of playing college basketball and getting a top-notch education.

“It was strictly basketball at first but I did some research and (Wabash) is a really good school,” said Mitchell. “I am pretty excited.”

Mitchell recalls wanting to play college basketball since as early as second grade.

“It’s been a dream to play at the next level for awhile,” he confirmed.

Mitchell is part of large freshmen class coming to Wabash. That means immediate playing time is not guaranteed – a fact he is not concerned about.

“They said I obviously have to work for everything like always,” said Mitchell. “Nothing will be given. I will just have to go in there and earn my minutes.”

The versatile Mitchell, who played everything from point guard to center at Waldron, believes he projects as a forward with the Little Giants.

“A forward … whatever they need,” said Mitchell. “They have size but not a lot of it. I might play a ‘3’ or a ‘4.’ It will depend on how I go in and contribute.”

In 2022, Wabash finished 28-4 and reached the NCAA Division III Championship Tournament semifinal round. The Little Giants went 21-8 this past season and again qualified for the NCAA postseason tournament.

“It’s a successful program,” said Mitchell. “Coach (Kyle) Brumett is top of the line. They went to the Final Four two years ago and the tournament again last year. He just knows what he is doing.”

As salutatorian, Mitchell was tasked with giving a speech at graduation. His message was simple and came easy to put down on paper.

“The writing of it was quick and easy. I knew what I was going to say,” said Mitchell. “I talked about my faith and how it has helped me. That’s one of the things that has brought me to where I am. That was super easy to write about.”

While the writing was easy, standing in front of his peers and their families proved a little more challenging.

“Once I got up there, it was a little nerve-wracking talking in front of people,” he said. “After the first couple of sentences I was fine.”

Mitchell found Wabash had a lot of similar characteristics to Waldron which he believes will make the transition go smoothly.

“I will definitely miss the guys and the friendships that I’ve built and the relationships over time, it is definitely one of the things I will cherish from this place, for sure,” he said. “I think it will be weird at first just switching from (Waldron to Wabash). I feel like I am kind of getting the same feel from here to there, like I will have my close friends like I had here and I will have those same relationships with those guys that I had here. I think it will translate pretty well.”

Mitchell has two months to prepare for his arrival at Wabash on Aug. 19. That sounds like plenty of time but he knows it will go by quickly, just as his time did as a Mohawk.

“If Wabash is anything like it was here, it will go by super quick,” said Mitchell. “The last four years have been the best but also the fastest four years of my life.”

This is the seventh in a series of feature stories from the Shelby County Post on Shelby County’s Class of 2023 valedictorians and salutatorians.

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A man was killed in a Monday collision with train.

Troopers from the Indiana State Police-Versailles Post began investigating a car versus train crash that occurred just east of Greensburg that claimed the life of a Decatur County man.

About 12:30 p.m. Monday, a 2006 Dodge Caravan, driven by Charles A. Papenhaus, 78, of Greensburg, turned southbound onto County Road 200 East from State Road 46. The driver’s side of the vehicle was then struck by a westbound Indiana and Ohio Railway Train that was crossing County Road 200 East.

Papenhaus was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Decatur County Coroner’s Office. Neither of the two occupants of the train were injured in the collision.

The crash remains under investigation.

The Indiana State Police was assisted by the Decatur County Sheriff’s Department, Greensburg Fire Department, Decatur County EMS, and the Decatur County Coroner’s Office.

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With top Indiana thoroughbreds and quarter horses filling its barns, Horseshoe Indianapolis ended its Fourth of July fireworks celebrations several years ago.

On July 3, the Shelbyville-based casino and horse track will again celebrate the red-white-and-blue holiday in much quieter fashion.

Horseshoe Indianapolis received permission Tuesday morning from the City of Shelbyville’s Board of Works to close down 200 West from 9:45 p.m. to 10:45 p.m. on July 3 at Michigan Road, which runs in front of the casino, to stage a “Patriotic Drone Show” at dusk.

The drone show, presented by Pixis, will cover the sky in front of the grandstand with 200 drones coming together to form images, including a racehorse, deck of cards, dice, and the Horseshoe Indianapolis logo. The drones are set to music and will be one of the first of its kind in Central Indiana.

"We were looking for something creative and innovative to present to our local customers and felt a Drone Show would be a great way to engage our community while bringing in something unique they haven't had the chance to see before," said Trent McIntosh, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Horseshoe Indianapolis. "By pairing the drone show with our racing program, we are presenting an entire day of activities to help celebrate Independence Day at Horseshoe Indianapolis."

Live music featuring Amanda and Adam, Nick Fischer, Kit Haymond, and Endless Summer Band starts at 2:30 p.m. and runs through the racing card. In addition to racing and entertainment, guests will enjoy a free axe throwing station, free kids' activities including face painting, Plinko, and a giant horseshoe toss, food trucks and interactive promotions and giveaways from the winner's circle.

Pixis, based out of Alexandria, Virginia, has provided similar shows around the world, visiting more than 100 locations annually. They have provided branded aerial displays for companies, including the NBA Draft, Bassmasters, Super Bowl LVI in Los Angeles, and the defending MLS World Champions, FCLA soccer team.

Parking and admission are free at Horseshoe Indianapolis for the Drone Show. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to secure a seat in front of the grandstand.

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WALDRON -- Josee Larrison was the top-ranked student in her graduating class since she arrived at Waldron High School. That put her in line to be the Class of 2023 Valedictorian.

“It was a goal to be it and stay there,” admitted Larrison.

Once the final grades were calculated, Larrison cemented her status as Waldron’s top student in the Class of 2023.

After growing up in a small town community and going to a small school, Larrison is ready for a fresh start. She will attend Indiana University in the fall and study Human Biology with the goal of becoming a dermatologist.

“I kind of wanted to go to a bigger school because Waldron is so small,” she said. “I love the small school but I also wanted to go to a bigger area and meet a lot of people. That’s what I was looking for.”

Larrison is the second of Isaac and Elissa Larrison’s four children. She along with older sister, Bella, now playing basketball at Anderson University, helped lead Waldron to the Class A girls basketball semistate championship game in 2022 – a first for the basketball program.

Larrison also found great success on the tennis court. She was an All-State Honorable Mention selection by the Indiana High School Tennis Coaches Association after going 15-5 in singles matches her senior season. Her academic success also earned her an Academic All-State honor from the Indiana Coaches of Girls Sports Association.

Leaving behind her volleyball, basketball and tennis teams at Waldron is proving difficult now that she is no longer competing.

“We all were so close,” she said. “We did everything together. We even had most of our classes together.”

A three-sport athlete at Waldron, Larrison is finding the transition to graduate challenging without a full slate of practices to juggle.

“It’s weird. I have a lot of free time,” she said with a laugh.

That will be the adjustment moving on from Waldron to Bloomington.

“I am definitely going to miss seeing my friends a lot,” she said. “Most of my friends were underclassmen this year. I will definitely miss seeing them and I will miss the small community and how close everyone is.”

Larrison is keeping busy this summer working at Maurice’s and Blue Bear Golf Club in Shelbyville as she counts down the days until her move-in date on campus in mid-August.

“Hopefully I will get to hang out with my friends and enjoy the summer,” she said.

This is the sixth in a series of feature stories from the Shelby County Post on Shelby County’s Class of 2023 valedictorians and salutatorians.

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The following list includes results of the Open Class entries in the Family Arts Building from the Shelby County Fair.

2023 Shelby County Fair - Open Class results

Antiques Department

Grand Champion: Sandra Howley, Personal Items-Quilt

Reserve Grand Champion: Vicky Lane, Needle Arts & Sewing-Tatted Tablecloth

Furniture

Blue Ribbons: Lezlie Doig, Child’s Chair

Kitchen

Champion: Jane Brattain: Kitchen Tools-Butter Churn

Blue Ribbons

Vicky Lane: China

Pam Robinson: Pottery-Tea set collection

Connie Schilling: Coffee Tins

Kris Schwickrath: Crockery

Karen Wolter: Pottery-Teapot

Red Ribbons

Vicky Lane: Pottery-Soup Tureen

Debbie Pennington: Apple Peeler

White Ribbons

Susie Knoop: Jar Opener

Pam Robinson: Clay Simmer Pot

Honorable Mention

Pam Robinson: Dishing Spoon

Hand Tools

Blue Ribbons

Kevin Hulsman: Painted Saw Blade

Pam Robinson: Iron

Leisure Items

Champion: Diana Lemmons: Toy Tonka Excavator

Blue Ribbons

Pam Robinson: New American Cookbook, 1905 Books, Clabber Girl Booklet, 4H Manuals

Red Ribbons

Susie Knoop: Baton

Pam Robinson: Toy Doll, 1969 Culinary Books

Tiffany Tupper: Sketch Book

White Ribbons

Susie Knoop: Toy Loom

Terri Meal: Woman’s World Cookbook

Pam Robinson: Davis Recipe Book

Honorable Mention

Vicky Lane: Johnson County Cookbook

Pam Robinson: 1901 Bible

Tiffanie Tupper: American Woman Cookbook, Min Biographies

Other Entries

Vicky Lane: Lazarus Cookbook

Debbie Pennington: Church Camp Songbook

Personal Items

Blue Ribbons

Jane Brattain: Leather Purse

Bobbie Eck: Christening Gown

Jane Huber: 3 hats and hat boxes

Susie Knoop: Kwik Tack

Terri Meal: Purple Rollers

Pam Robinson: Pillowcases, Sewing Tin Can

Red Ribbons

Susie Knoop: Hankie

Vicky Lane: 3 mink hats, quilt

Diana Lemmons: Baby Gown

White Ribbons

Pam Robinson: Quilt, Purse

Pattie Stone: Girl Scout Vest, GHS Letter Collection

Honorable Mention

Susie Knoop: Formal Ladies Gloves

Needle Arts & Sewing

Blue Ribbon

Debbie Pennington: Gingham Duck

Advertising, Memorabilia & Collectibles

Champion: Kevin Carson: 47 Ford Tractor

Blue Ribbons

Emily Stephenson: Postcard Collection

Red Ribbon

Ed Knoop: Basketball

White Ribbon

Diana Lemmons: Picture

Any Other Antiques

Blue Ribbon

Jane Brattain: Newspaper Stand

Whitney Carson-Mahin: Indian Artifacts

Other Entries

Kathy Dunaway: Porcelain Vase

Crafts Department

Grand Champion: Christa Carson-Weaver, Leather Burning on Hat

Reserve Grand Champion: Dawn Whitfield, Quilled Bird Picture

Sewing Crafts

Champion: Jane Huber: Hawaiian Doll

Reserve Champion: Christa Carson-Weaver: Jacket

Red Ribbon

Kevin Hulsman: Wooden Angel

Non-Sewing Crafts

Reserve Champion: Sharon Yarling, Finger Knit

Blue Ribbons

Katie Burnside: T-Shirt

Emma Lou Campbell: Rock

Jill Coen: Painted Glass Dog, Painted Shoes

Sharon Dras: Diamond Cut Picture

Ron Kramer: String Art

Cindy Law: Bracelet and Earrings

Diana Lemmons: Button Art

Marjorie Price: Painted Owl

LeAnne Ramsey: Gray Wood Modge Podge

Pam Robinson: Earrings

Angela Settles: Yard Art Girl at Gate

Pattie Stone: Garden Gate Vignette

Red Ribbons

Lynn Howley: Finger Knit Lap Robe

Marjorie Price: Valentine Couple

Floral Crafts

Champion: Jane Huber, Teacup/Sauce

Reserve Champion: Karen Miller, Grapevine wreath

Blue Ribbons

Tracey Blesdoe: Red & White Silk Vase

Christa Carson-Weaver: Boots

Kathy Dunaway: Gold Vase Arrangement

DeAnna Kirby: Pansies, Family Wreath

Kim Loham: Sunflower Bridal Bouquet, Wreath, Craft Floral

Terri Meal:Patriotic Grapevine Wreath

Leanne Ramsey: Lasso Rope

Angela Settles: Dried Pinecone Flowers, Wreath

Debbie Stafford: Flip Flop Wreath

Emily Stephenson: Rag Flowers

Brooke Thompson: Bridal Nosegay, Corsage/Boutonniere Set, Corsage

Nathan Yeley: 4 Jar Flower Arrangement

Red Ribbon

Rebekah Kirby: Flowers

J.B.Myers: Indy 500 wreath

Recycled Creations

Champion: Peggy Jacobs, Clothesline Bunny

Reserve Champion: Kevin Carson, Glass Bottle Peacock

Blue Ribbons

Jennifer Campbell: Flower Planter

Jane Huber: Fork Photo Holder

Bethany Kirby: Pink Jar

DeAnna Kirby: Scrabble Ornament

Pam Robinson: Blue Jean Purse, Jean Plastic Bag Holder

Angela Settles: Beehive, Home Décor

Debbie Stafford: Christmas Ornament from CD

Carol Stohry: Lamp from teacups, Wreath

Pattie Stone: Dress Shirt Apron

Scrapbooking

Champion: Emily Stephenson, Scrap Book

Reserve Champion: Pam Robinson, Homemaker

Blue Ribbons

Pam Robinson: Recipe Scrapbook

LeAnne Ramsey: Mother-in-Law

Paper Crafts

Reserve Champion: Kim Lohman, Book

Blue Ribbons

Judy Campbell: Birthday/Christmas Gift Tags, Hello There Greeting Cards

Peggy Jacobs: House

Kim Loham: Hand Crafted Greeting Cards

Pam Robinson: Christmas Card

Emily Stephenson: July 4^th Centerpiece, Birthday Cards

Pattie Stone: Folios-February, March & April, Be Kind Book Binding, Christmas Card, General Card, Greeting Cards, Jesus Star Gift Tag, Joy Tree Gift Tag, Pin, Other Tags,

Dawn Whitfield: Quilled Flower Picture

Woodworking

Champion: Kevin Hulsman, Horse Go Round

Reserve Champion: Kevin Hulsman, House

Blue Ribbons

Kevin Carson: Barn Toy Box

Jeremy Weaver: Fishing Rod Rack

Red Ribbon

Kevin Hulsman: Wood Quilt

Ceramics

Blue Ribbons

Sharon Dras: Smooth Bowl

Oakleigh Goedde: Shoes Galore

Red Ribbons

Sharon Dras: Uneven Bowl

Connie Schilling: Bowl, Flower Dish

Holiday Decorations

Blue Ribbons

Whitney Carson-Mahin: Handprint Christmas Ornament

Jon Farnsley: Easter Mesh Wreath

Peggy Jacobs: Christmas Basket with Deer

DeAnna Kirby: Scrabble Ornament

Kim Loham: Centerpiece

Angela Settles: Easter Wreath

Debbie Stafford: Halloween Centerpiece, Red Truck with Tree Centerpiece

Pattie Stone: Angel Ornament, Poinsettia Ornament

Mary Ann Toll: Seed Christmas Decoration

Sharon Yarling: Snowman

Red Ribbon

Debbie Stafford: Easter Centerpiece

Giftwrapping

Champion: Kim Loham, Wedding

Blue Ribbons

Rebekah Kirby: Blue Cylinder

Pam Robinson: Gift Bag

Angela Settles: Snowman

Pattie Stone: Santa Belt Box, Santa Gift Bag

Angela Settles: Rectangle, Tulip Tin

Other Entry

LeAnne Ramsey

Memorabilia

Blue Ribbons

Lucy Furiak: Signed Power Ranger Figure

Nick Henderson: Alabama National Champs

Pam Robinson: Framed Memory

Gourds

Blue Ribbons

Angela Settles: Snowman, Birdhouse

Hobbies/Collectibles

Champion: Pam Robinson, Cookbooks

Blue Ribbons

Jim Ash: Barn Nativity

Rebekah Kirby: Name Board Wedding Collection, Shells

J.B. Myers: Bells

LeAnne Ramsey: Toy Tractors

Pam Robinson: Hat

Red Ribbons

Pam Herther: Lego Scene

Sandra Howley: Needlepoint Pillows

Ruthann Kirby: Bunnies

Susie Knoop: Razor Brushes, Thimbles

Other Entries

Angela Settles: Snowman Gourds

Fine Arts Department

Grand Champion: Sharon Fansler, Beginner Adult, Oil or Acrylic

Reserve Grand Champion: Bonnie Steffey, Adult Beginner, Oil or Acrylic

Advanced Adult

Reserve Champion: Marjorie Price, Oil or Acrylic

Blue Ribbons

Dawn Adams: 4-Oil or Acrylic

Kathy Dunaway: Drawing

Sharon Fansler: Watercolor

Jim Jones: 3-Oil or Acrylic

J.B. Myers: Oil or Acrylic

Marjorie Price: 3-Oil or Acrylic

Red Ribbons

J.B. Myers: 3-Oil or Acrylic

Marjorie Price: 3-Oil or Acrylic

Adult Intermediate

Champion: Tisha Bennett, Watercolor

Reserve Champion: Tisha Bennett, Watercolor

Blue Ribbons

Tisha Bennett: 2-Watercolor

Sandra Howley: 2-Oil or Acrylic

Ron Kramer: 3-Watercolor

Sharon Smith: 3-Oil or Acrylic

Sharon Yarling: Mixed Media

Adult Beginner

Reserve Champion: Bonnie Steffey, Pastel

Blue Ribbons

Emi Lou Campbell: Watercolor

Jane Huber: 2-Watercolor

Bonnie Steffey: Pastel, Oil or Acrylic

Pattie Stone: Watercolor

Mary Ann Toll: Drawing

Red Ribbon

Mary Ann Toll: Drawing

Adult Coloring Pages

Champion: Ann Myers, Colored Markers

Blue Ribbons

Bethany Kirby: Colored Markers, Combination

Ron Kramer: 3-Colored Pencils

Ann Myers: 3-Colored Pencils, 4-Colored Markers

LeAnne Ramsey: Colored Pencils

Pam Robinson: Crayons

Sharon Yarling: Colored Markers

Red Ribbon

Bethany Kirby: Colored Pencils

Ron Kramer: Colored Pencils

Pam Robinson: Combination

Food Preservation Department

Grand Champion: Pam Robinson, Dehydrated Oregano

Reserve Grand Champion: Terri Meal, Egg Noodles

Canned Fruits

Blue Ribbon

DeAnna Kirby: Apple Juice

Canned Vegetables

Champion: DeAnna Kirby, Tomatoes

Red Ribbon

Terri Meal: Green Beans

Canned Pickle Product

Blue Ribbon

Laura Stieneker-Taylor: Polish Dill

Red Ribbon

Laura Stieneker-Taylor: Bread and Butter

Canned Relish

Red Ribbon

Laura Stieneker-Taylor: Sweet Relish

Sauces

Blue Ribbons

Nickey Hansome: Applesauce

Sharon Dras: Spaghetti Sauce

Jelly

Champion: Laura Stieneker-Taylor, Jalapeno

Red Ribbon

DeAnna Kirby: Pepper

Honorable Mention

DeAnna Kirby: Sugar Free Blueberry

Dried Foods

Reserve Champion: Pam Robinson, Basil

Frozen Foods

Champion: Nickey Hansome, Gooseberries

Blue Ribbons

Pam Robinson: Blueberries, Roma Tomatoes, Brisket, Salsa, Candy

Foods Department

Grand Champion: DeAnna Kirby, Yeast Bread

Reserve Grand Champion: Olivia Cassidy, Sour Cream Coffee Cake

Cakes

Reserve Champion: Tracey Blesdoe, Brown Sugar Pound Cake

Red Ribbons

Tracey Blesdoe: Marple Pound

DeAnna Kirby: Raspberry Lemon

Cookies/Bars

Champion: Terri Meal, Chocolate Chip

Reserve Champion: Terri Moore, Chocolate No Bake

Blue Ribbons

Tracey Bledsoe: Caramel Nut

Judy Campbell: Molasses

Olivia Cassidy: Chocolate Chip

Barbara Farnsley: Oatmeal Chocolate

Rebekah Kirby: Mexican Wedding Cake

Ina Sue Kuhn: Snickerdoodle

Terri Meal: Coconut Macaroons

Pam Robinson: Oatmeal Scotchy

Red Ribbons

Nickey Hansome: Chocolate Chip

DeAnna Kirby: Butter Pecan

DeAnna Kirby: Chocolate Chip Pecan

Mary Ann Toll: Sugar

Plain Yeast Breads

Reserve Champion: DeAnna Kirby, Yeast Dinner Rolls

Blue Ribbon

Barbara Farnsley: Dinner Rolls

Red Ribbon

Ina Sue Kuhn: Dinner Rolls

Fancy Yeast Breads

Champion: DeAnna Kirby, Iced Sticky Buns

Quick Breads

Champion: Terri Meal, Pineapple Zucchini

Breadmaker Products

Champion: Debbie Stafford, Cottage Cheese Chive

Reserve Champion: Debbie Stafford, Cracked Wheat

Homemade Candy

Champion: Pam Robinson, Chocolate Fudge

Reserve Champion: Pam Robinson, Peanut Butter Fudge

Microwave

Champion: Cindy Law, Peanut Brittle

Reserve Champion: Pam Robinson, Almond Bark Candy

Enhanced Box Mix

Champion: Debbie Stafford, Peanut Butter Brownie Bars

Reserve Champion: Terri Meal, Chocolate Bundt Cake

Blue Ribbons

Tracey Bledsoe: Tropical Nectar Cake

Bethany Kirby: Chocolate Cookie

DeAnna Kirby: Blueberry, Red Raspberry Bread

Raymond McClain: M&M Brownies

Debbie Stafford: Blueberry Muffins

Red Ribbons

Tracey Bledsoe: Orange Chiffon Cake

Debbie Stafford: Banana Walnut Crunch Cake

Horticulture Department

Reserve Grand Champion: Diana Lemmons, Strawberries

Root Crops

Champion: Peggy Jacobs, Onions

Blue Ribbons

Jeff Curtis: Garlic

Kathy Dunaway: Green Onions

Jon Farnsley: Green Onions

Peggy Jacobs: Green Onions

Red Ribbon

Jon Farnsley: Radishes

Other Vegetables

Champion: Hank Godby, Asparagus

Fruits

Reserve Champion: Hank Godby, Gooseberries

Blue Ribbon

Jeff Curtis: Cherries

Red Ribbon

Hank Godby: Grapes

Needle Arts and Sewing Department

Grand Champion: Robin Ailes, Counted Cross Stitch Large Picture

Reserve Grand Champion: Jenny Branson, Sewing, Kitchen Table Runner

Crochet

Champion: Lisa Addis, Baby Blanket

Reserve Champion: Lisa Addis, Doily

Blue Ribbons

Lisa Addis: Scarf

Lucy Furiak: Doll-Slug, Mobi Strip, Luffa

Red Ribbons

Lucy Furiak: Can Cozy, Dragon Scale, Ladies Bandana

Greenley Goedde: Tote Bag

Susie Knoop: Mitts

White Ribbon

Lucy Furiak: Women’s Top

Knitting

Red Ribbon

Lucy Furiak: Household Article-Coaster

Applique

Champion: Peggy Jacobs, Machine Applique

Embroidery

Champion: Peggy Jacobs, Machine Embroidery

Counted Cross Stitch

Reserve Champion: Kathy Dunaway, Large picture

Blue Ribbons

Beverly Carson: Large Picture

Pam Herther: Small Christmas Picture

Canvas Work

Blue Ribbon

Susie Knoop: Plastic Canvas Graph Design-Doll Shoes

Sewing

Reserve Champion: Terri Meal, Any Other Costume-Bowtie

Blue Ribbons

Jenny Branson: 2-Totes

Teresa Burdine: Household Article-Christmas Tablecloth

Peggy Jacobs: Ladies Fleece Scarf

Terri Meal: Household article-Christmas Apron

Pam Robinson: Tote

Red Ribbons

Jenny Branson, Christmas Stocking, Household Table Runner,

Teresa Burdine, 2-Wall Hangings, Tote

Whitney Carson-Mahin 2-Rompers

Lucy Furiak, Costume

Pam Robinson, Baby Blanket

Emily Stephenson, Tote

Pattie Stone, Kitchen Accessory: Casserole Cover, Hot Pad

White Ribbon

Whitney Carson-Mahin, Child’s Dress

Quilts Department

Grand Champion: Terri Meal, Commercially Machine Quilted, Machine Pieced, Twin

Reserve Grand Champion: Pattie Stone, Group Quilting

Quilts/Comforter

Blue Ribbon

Teresa Burdine: Tied

Commercially Machine or Hand Quilted

Reserve Champion: Terri Meal, Commercially Machine Quilted, Machine Pieced, Twin

Blue Ribbons

Jenny Branson: Commercially Machine Quilted, Machine Pieced, Lap

Teresa Burdine: Commercially Machine Quilted, Machine Pieced, Twin

Terri Meal: Commercially Machine Quilted, Machine Pieced, Twin

Jan Smith: Commercially Machine Quilted, Machine Pieced, Lap

Bonnie Steffey: Commercially Machine Quilted, Machine Pieced, Lap

Quilted Articles

Champion: Teresa Burdine, Pieced Non-Holiday Wall Hanging

Reserve Champion: Bonnie Steffey, Pieced Non-Holiday Wall Hanging

Blue Ribbons

Holly Daniels: Pieced Non-Holiday Wall Hanging, Pieced Holiday Wall Hanging

Phyllis Miller: Pieced Holiday Table Runner

Terri Moore: 2-Pieced Non-Holiday Table Runner

Red Ribbons

Teresa Burnine: Pieced Holiday Table Runner

Sandy Howley: Pieced Non-Holiday Table Runner

Photography Department

Grand Champion: Steve Fansler, Monochrome, Adults 8x10

Reserve Grand Champion: Hank Godby, Color, Child8x10

Monochrome

Reserve Champion: Jill Coen, Architectural 11x14

Blue Ribbons

Lisa Addis: Architectural 8x10

Beverly Carson:Nature 8x10

Jill Coen: Architectural 11x14

LeAnne Ramsey: Child 8x10

Red Ribbons

Bruce Banister: Nature/Landscape 8.10

Vinnie Gaudin: Architectural4x6

Laura Stieneker-Taylor: Adults 8x10

White Ribbons

Vinnie Gaudin: Nature/Landscape 8x10

Laura Stieneker-Taylor: Adults 8x10

Honorable Mention

Lucy Furiak: Nature/Landscape 8x10

Vinnie Gaudin: 3-Nature/Landscape 8x10

Color

Reserve Champion: Jill Coen, Nature/Landscape 11x14

Blue Ribbons

Lisa Addis: Animals 8x10

Jill Coen: Human Interest 11x14, Animals 11x14

Kathy Dunaway: Flowers 4x6

Steve Fansler: Animals 8x10

Lucy Furiak: Adults 8x10, Human Interest 4x6

Sean Garringer: Nature/Landscape 8x10, Nature/People Animals 8x10, Flowers 8x10

Vinnie Gaudin: 2-Nature/Landscape 4x6, Architectural 4x6

Hank Godby: Human Interest 4x6

Billy Dale Hopkins: Nature/Landscape 8x10

Jane Huber: Animals 8x10, Architectural 8x10

Kenton Jones: Human Interest 8x10

Bethany Kirby: Adults 8x10

Debbie Meal: Child 8x10, Child 4x6, Children Adults 8x10

Red Ribbons

Bruce Banister: Nature/Landscape 8x10, Nature/Landscape 4x6

Jennifer Campbell: Nature/Landscape 8x10

Beverly Carson: Child 8x10

Kathy Dunaway: Animals 8x10, Architectural 8x10

Lucy Furiak: Nature/People Animals 4x6

Hank Godby: Nature/Landscape 4x6, Flowers 8x10

Tatem Hodge: Animals 8x10

Jane Huber: Animals 8x10

Bethany Kirby: Human Interest 4x6

Debbie Meal: Nature/People Animals 8x10

White Ribbons

Lisa Addis: Nature/Landscape 8x10

Jennifer Campbell: Human Interest 8x10

Jill Coen: Sport 11x14

Kathy Dunaway: Child 8x10

Lucy Furiak: Nature/People Animals 8x10

Sean Garringer: 4-Flowers 8x10

Tatem Hodge: 2-Flowers 8x10

LeAnne Ramsey: Nature/People Animals 8x10

Sharon Snyder: Sport 8x10

Laura Stieneker-Taylor: Nature/Landscape 8x10

Honorable Mention

Bruce Banister: Animals 4x6

Jennifer Campbell: Nature/Landscape 8x10

Beverly Carson: Architectural 8x10

Kathy Dunaway: Nature/Landscape 4x6, 2-Flowers 8x10

Sharon Fansler: Nature/People Animals 8x10

Steve Fansler: Nature/Landscape 8x10

Lucy Furiak: Nature/Landscape 8x10, Nature/People Animals 8x10

Sean Garringer: Flowers 8x10

Hank Godby: Child 8x10, Nature/Landscape 8x10, Flowers 8x10

Tatem Hodge: Nature/Landscape 8x10, Animals 8x10

Jane Huber: Adult 8x10, Nature/People Animals 8x10, Human Interest 8x10

Bethany Kirby: Child 8x10, Children & Adults 8x10

DeAnna Kirby: Nature/Landscape 8x10, Human Interest 4x6

Diana Lemmons: Child 8x10, Nature/Landscape 8x10, Architectural 8x10

Debbie Meal: 2-Child 8x10

Let’s Bake a Pie Department

Grand Champion Pie: Pam Robinson, Pineapple

Reserve Grand Champion Pie: Pam Robinson, Pecan

Grand Champion Crust: Pam Robinson

Reserve Grand Champion Crust: Jennifer Campbell

Cream Filled Pies

Champion: Jennifer Campbell, Sugar Cream

Reserve Champion: Pam Robinson, Sugar Cream

Blue Ribbons

Barbara Farnsley: Chocolate

Pam Robinson: Lemon

Sharon Snyder: Butterscotch, Chocolate

Fruit Pies

Champion: Jennifer Campbell, Cherry

Reserve Champion: Pam Robinson, Raspberry

Blue Ribbons

Rebekah Kirby: Strawberry Rhubarb

Pam Robinson: Cherry, Apple Streusel

Sharon Snyder: Strawberry

Do Your Own Thing Pies

Champion: Pam Robinson, Bush’s Bean

Red Ribbon

Lucy Furiak: Caramel Apple

Ready Made Crust

Champion: Kaley Kessler, Sugar Cream

Reserve Champion: Miranda Earle, Mixed Berry

Blue Ribbons

Shannon Boyce: Blueberry

Ruthanne Kirby: Banana

Lucy Furiak: Pecan

Red Ribbons

Lucy Furiak: Blueberry, Sugar Cream

McKenzie Hilser: Lemon

Flower Show Department

Flowers and Plants

Grand Champion: Roberta Eck, Perennials-Oriental Lily

Reserve Grand Champion: Laura Stieneker-Taylor, Annuals-Coleus

Annuals

Blue Ribbons

Kathy Dunaway: Marigold, Viola

Dede Freeman: Celosia

Kim Loham: Petunia

Red Ribbons

Dede Freeman: Begonia

Steve Freeman: Celosia

Pam Robinson: Petunia, Pansy

White Ribbon

Tracey Bledsoe: Petunia

Flowers and Plants

Reserve Champion: Kim Lohman, Hosta Leaf-Medium

Blue Ribbons

Tracey Bledsoe: Hosta Leaf-Large

Swati Deshpande: Flowering-Coreopsis, Hosta Leaf-Small, Herbs-Dill

Kathy Dunaway: Flowering-Coral Bells, Foliage-Sedum, Wildflowers-Spiderwort, Bulbs-Calla Lily, Ferns-Lady

Dede Freeman: Vines-Clematis, Rose-Single, Bulbs-Asiatic Lily

Steve Freeman: Hosta Leaf-Medium

Lucy Furiak: Foliage-Elephant Ear & Shamrock

Rebekah Kirby: Herbs-Oregano

Kim Loham: Flowering-Daisies, Bulbs-Dahlia, Herbs-Basil &Mint

Pam Robinson: Vines-Potato Vine, Ferns-Christmas, Flowering-Hosta, Day Lilies-Single, Foliage-Coral Bells, Hosta Leaf-Small & Extra Large, Herbs-Mint

Kris Schwickrath: Foliage-Solomon’s Seal, Wildflowers-Butterfly Weed, Herbs-Lamb’s Ear

Bonnie Steffey: Herbs-Dill, Chamomile, Rosemary & Sage, Hosta Leaf-Medium, Ferns-Japanese Painted

Laura Stieneker-Taylor: Foliage-Banana, Herbs-Lavender, Flowering Shrubs-Hydrangea

Red Ribbons

Jeff Curtis: Herbs-Mint

Kathy Dunaway: Vines-Clematis, Foliage-Papyrus, Hosta Leaf-Small

Steve Freeman: Hosta Leaf-Extra Large

Lucy Furiak: Flowering-Pincushion

Nickey Hansome: Hosta Leaf-Small

Kim Loham: Hosta Leaf-Large

Karen Miller: Rose-Tea

Pam Robinson: Flowering-Coral Bells, Rose-Single, Wildflowers-Spiderwort, Bubs-Asiatic Lily, Hosta Leaf-Medium & Large, Ferns-Japanese Painted, Herbs-Rosemary, Sage, Lavender, Oregano & Thyme

Bonnie Steffey: Foliage-Fennel & Solomon’s Seal, Flowering-Coreopsis, Hosta Leaf-Small, Ferns-Lady

Laura Stieneker-Taylor: Foliage, Persian Shield, Hosta Leaf-Medium & Extra Large, Herbs-Basil & Rosemary

White Ribbons

Swati Despande: Bulbs-Asiatic Lily, Herbs-Mint

Dede Freeman: Hosta Leaf-Medium

Steve Freeman: Hosta Leaf-Medium

Pam Robinson: Vines-Clematis

Pat Rosenfeld: Flowering-Poppies

Bonnie Steffey: Herbs-Mint

Laura Stieneker-Taylor: Herbs-Mint

Honorable Mention

Pam Robinson: Herbs-Basil & Citronella

Bonnie Steffey: Herbs-Oregano

Laura Stieneker-Taylor: Herbs-Sage & Chives, Flowering-Dianthus

Container GrownPlants

Champion: Kathy Dunaway, Herbs-Rosemary

Blue Ribbons

Kathy Dunaway: Cactus

Roberta Eck: Anthurium

Rebekah Kirby: Herbs-Thyme

Pam Robinson: Begonia, Herbs-Basil, Lavender, Oregano, Sage & Thyme

Red Ribbons

Kathy Dunaway: Arrowroot

Rebekah Kirby: Herbs-Lavender& Oregano

Kim Loham: Herbs-Basil

Pam Robinson: Herbs-Mint & Rosemary

Artistic Design Department

Grand Champion: Kathy Dunaway, Cut Flower Designs - “Go Green”

Cut Flower Designs

Reserve Champion: Tracey Blesdoe, “Fall for It”

Blue Ribbons

Tracey Blesdoe: “Make Me Smile,” “It’s Canning Time,” “Gone Fishing”

Red Ribbons

Tracey Blesdoe: “Go Green”

Honorable Mention

Laura Stieneker-Taylor: “Make Me Smile,” “It’s Canning Time”

Potted Flower Designs

Blue Ribbons

Kathy Dunaway: Cactus, Succulent

Red Ribbons

Kim Lohman: Succulent

Two men were injured by gunfire  in Rush County on Saturday.

A 911 call to Rush County Central Dispatch brought the sheriff’s office and emergency personnel to 400 West and 650 South in Anderson Township.

Joseph Bell and Alan Stockman said they were coyote hunting when they began taking gunfire from an unknown location. Both men were struck.

Bell was lifelined for medical treatment while Stockman was ambulanced to the hospital in Greensburg. Both were listed in stable cxondition.

The Rush County Sheriff’s Office says it’s believed the incident is a hunting accident but the investigation continues.

Indiana’s unemployment rate in May stands at 3.1%, according to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. By comparison, the national unemployment rate for May stands at 3.7%.

In addition, Indiana’s labor force participation rate held at 63.6% for May, remaining above the national rate of 62.6%. Indiana’s total labor force, which includes both Hoosiers employed and those seeking employment, stands at 3,426,738 – an increase of 3,399 from the previous month.

Private sector employment in Indiana decreased by 2,300 jobs over the last month, but still resulted in a gain of 66,500 jobs from this time last year. Indiana’s May private employment stands at 2,837,600.

Industries that experienced job increases in May included:

• Professional and Business Services (+2,100)
• Private Educational and Health Services (+1,100)
• Financial Activities (+300)

As of June 1, there were 124,313 open job postings throughout the state. In May, 14,478 unemployment insurance claims were filed in Indiana.

Individuals looking for work, training or career information are encouraged to visit in.gov/dwd.job-seekers.

Get the most recent Shelby County Post headlines delivered to your email. Go to shelbycountypost.com and click on the free daily email signup link at the top of the page.

Hallie Schweitzer went back and forth with her college decision.

The Triton Central Class of 2023 Co-Valedictorian could re-create her small school environment and attend Marian University in Indianapolis or she could open herself up to new adventures at Purdue University.

“I went on some visits to Purdue and I decided I wanted to go big,” said Schweitzer late Wednesday afternoon while taking a break from her duties as the Shelby County Fair Queen. “I want to have the full college experience. I felt like if I went to Marian, it would be like going to Triton Central, part II.”

Schweitzer will major in Nursing with the goal of becoming a pediatric nurse practitioner.

“I knew I wanted to go into the medical or science field but I went back and forth a lot during high school trying to decide,” she said. “I had no idea where I was going to go to college. It ended up coming down to Purdue and Marian, which are almost opposites. One is really small and one is really big.”

As a multi-sport athlete that has battled health issues over the years, Schweitzer has spent plenty of time in medical settings. As it turns out, that helped shape her future.

“I feel like I have been in doctors’ offices a lot with sports injuries, allergies and asthma and other illnesses,” she explained. “I know a lot of kids don’t like going to doctors but I always liked going to the doctor. That may be funny, but you go in and something is wrong and it’s a nice, safe place. I know what it is like to go through health struggles a lot so I think that sounds like what I want to do.”

The youngest of Alan and Suzie Schweitzer’s five children, Hallie believes the draw of home and family will lure her back in the future.

“I can’t imagine myself moving away from here or my family,” she said. “I thought about being a travel nurse for a little bit after I graduate but I know I will end up here. It would be nice to give back to the community that has done so much for me.”

Before Schweitzer can do that, she wants to immerse herself in the larger educational setting in West Lafayette.

“I am going to miss the closeness of everybody,” said Schweitzer of her TC experience. “It’s going to be so weird to go to Purdue. There is going to be so many more people. This past spring as a senior was super fun just being with everybody. It is nice getting to know everyone and feel so close and comfortable with all these people. And now I am off to a place where I don’t really know anybody but I am also excited to make new friends.”

An accomplished distance runner, volleyball, basketball and tennis athlete at Triton Central, June is the first month Schweitzer has not had some sort of summer sports workout in years. She has not yet had time to have withdrawal from her competitive athletic nature thanks to the Shelby County Fair monopolizing her time for the last three weeks.

“Somebody asked me the other day how does it feel to not be doing sports?” she said. “My summer has been so busy so far I have hardly noticed. The fair has taken up a lot of it. Next week, I will be sitting on my bed and think this is just weird. I think once I get to college it will hit me harder. I have been making myself busy but once I slow down I will miss it.”

Schweitzer shared the valedictorian honor at Triton Central this year with Hadyn Ball, who is headed to Wabash College.

This is the fifth in a series of feature stories from the Shelby County Post on Shelby County’s Class of 2023 valedictorians and salutatorians.

Get the most recent Shelby County Post headlines delivered to your email. Go to shelbycountypost.com and click on the free daily email signup link at the top of the page.

A Greenfield police officer has been charged with Operating While Intoxicated in Hamilton County.

Patrolman Nichole Gilbert is a 13-year veteran of the Greenfield Police Department. Gilbert was off-duty at the time of the traffic stop and arrest.  She was not driving a department owned vehicle.

The traffic stop was was prompted by Gilbert making an unsafe lane movement.

Gilbert has been placed on administrative leave pending an internal investigation.

Hancock County authorities asked the public for help to find a hit-and-run driver that injured a teenage boy in a Saturday night collision.

Around 10 p.m. Saturday, Hancock County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the area of State Road 109 in Wilkinson for a juvenile struck by a car. A passerby observed a child on the ground next to a bicycle and called 911. It is not known how long the child was laying on the ground before the witness located him.

The 13-year-old male had his eyes open but was unable to speak. He was transported by air ambulance to Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis in critical condition.

Investigators from the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office are searching for clues to locate the person and vehicle who struck the child. This includes using Flock cameras in the area, speaking to neighbors, and searching for more video. The suspect vehicle may have damage to the front, right and passenger side.

The Hancock County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with any information to contact detectives at 317-477-1199. If anyone living on State Road 109 between State Road 234 and the Dollar General in Wilkinson has security camera footage from approximately 9:45 p.m. and 10:10 p.m. Saturday night, please contact detectives. Also, if anyone was driving in that area Saturday night and saw anything that may help, please call HCSO.

The child’s parents were notified and were with him at the hospital.

Members of the Hancock County Fatal Accident Crash Team (FACT), Shirley Police Department, New Palestine Police Department, and Fortville Police Department investigated the scene.

Things don't often change a lot in an Indiana small town.  For example, this is the weekend that the Fairland Volunteer Fire Department hosts the annual Fish Fry.

And people know that without needing to write it on the calendar.

Josh Rowe talks about what the event means for the community and the department.

The name says a great deal about the menu.  But not everything.

Serving is underway Friday at at 5 p.m. featuring live music.

On Saturday, serving starts at 11a.m. There will be a parade at 2 p.m.

The disappearance of a girl in Rush County has been the focus of a Silver Alert this week.  Rush County law enforcement is asking for the public’s help to find Valerie Tindall.

Tindall was last seen about noon on June 7.  A Silver Alert was issued on June 10 and it remains active.

Tindall is described as being 5’6” tall and 162 pounds.  She is a white female, 17 years of age.  When she left her residence she was wearing a light blue shirt, jean shorts and sandals.

She was last known to be operating a green 2000 Honda Accord with license plate – ZYK833.

Tindall is not wearing glasses in the picture with this story and the Silver Alert.  However, Rush County advises she was believed to be wearing glasses at the time of her disappearance.

Anyone with any information about Tindall is asked to call the Rush County Sheriff’s Office at 765-932-2931 or their local law enforcement agency.

Triton Central’s Co-Valedictorian for the Class of 2023 will spend his freshman year at Wabash College as a two-sport athlete.

Hadyn Ball has committed to continue his football and wrestling careers in Crawfordsville, Indiana, while majoring in Biology or Chemistry to start a pre-medicine track.

“I decided on Wabash because I would be able to play football and wrestling,” said Ball, the son of Mike and Mary Ball. “My dad also went to Wabash so I already had some connections. I just think it’s the place for me.”

Ball is unsure if he will graduate as a two-sport athlete, though. Time will tell if he can maintain the rigors of athletics and academics at the collegiate level.

“I think I want to do both because I am still progressing in both and I haven’t reached my full potential in both yet,” he said. “I am going to do both my freshman year and see which one I like better and maybe go with that the rest of my time there.”

Ball projects as a defensive end for Wabash football and either compete at 197 pounds or heavyweight during the wrestling season. Ball was a state finalist at 220 pounds for Triton Central this past season so cutting to 197 pounds could prove challenging.

Wabash produced the 285-pound heavyweight Division III national champion in March when Jack Heldt, a senior, scored a 6-1 win over Kaleb Reeves of Coe College.

Once Ball closes out his athletic career for good, he will focus on becoming a doctor in an as-yet-to-be-determined field.

“I’m not sure what type of physician I want to be yet but ever since I was a little kid I always wanted to be a doctor,” he said.

While co-valedictorian Hallie Schweitzer and salutatorian Kearsley Kermode came up through the Triton Central school system, Ball was a move-in from Roncalli ahead of his junior year.

“I really liked the small-school environment,” said Ball. “Coming from Roncalli, which is a little bit bigger, it’s just way different. Triton Central only has about 400 kids so you know everybody. It’s nice to know everybody and everyone was so welcoming. It is just a good environment.”

Ball’s arrival made it a three-way race for Triton Central’s top student honor. While there was competition between the trio, it never threatened their friendship that developed over time.

“I think it was pretty competitive between us but we were all friends and it was fun,” said Ball. “We would work on assignments together. I made sure I got all A’s and did what I needed to do.”

Ball was not always at the top of his class. In fact, it took awhile for him to find his way in elementary school.

“I was pretty average growing up,” he recalled. “I was really hyper and I couldn’t focus well so my parents didn’t know that I was that smart until around first or second grade.

“Once I really started focusing, I started getting all A’s. There would be competitions in class and I would double people’s scores. I knew then I was a little smarter than everybody else.”

Football made the transition to Triton Central easier. Ball will have that same option at Wabash.

“At first it was a little bit tough because I really didn’t know anybody,” he said of his arrival in Fairland. “The only person I knew was Jaxon Miller, who went off to college. It was a little rough but I really think football helped me. Going into the school year I already had friends.”

Still, Ball is prepared for a much tougher environment – both athletically and academically.

“That is the one thing I am not looking forward to,” said Ball when asked if he was prepared to be a freshman again. “Since my dad went there, he said the freshman year sucks. A bunch of people quit football their freshman year because of how tough it is. I will be ready for it.”

This is the fourth in a series of feature stories from the Shelby County Post on Shelby County’s Class of 2023 valedictorians and salutatorians.

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The PK USA Associate Referral Program has netted all associates in the program $1,000 after just three months.

“Our commitment to our current associates and our new associate hires is significant,” said Bill Kent, Vice President of Corporate Relations. “Today, these referral associates received an extra $1,000, along with the associate who referred them to PK USA. We have faced hiring challenges that are significant to our base of operations, but this referral program has brought in associates that we know can, and are doing an excellent job.”

The innovative program allows any PK USA associate to refer as many people as they wish to any open position. Interviews are conducted and normal recruitment activities remain the same.

All job openings within PK USA, located at 600 W. Northridge Drive in Shelbyville, are included.

“Associates are encouraged to check in with Human Resources to review open positions that are available,” said Kent. “We plan on carrying on this referral program for years to come. This milestone shows that this program works, and our Associates are our best recruitment tool.”

Photo caption: Associates receiving $1,000 checks are (from left): Nancy Isidro, Fernando Isidro, Van Bik, Emily Elamon, Tasha Prather, April Evans, Rory Paul, Chester Smith and Timothy Rosenweig.

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The estate of a former teacher in the Southwestern Consolidated Schools system has made two sizable donations to the southern Shelby County school system.

At Wednesday’s school board meeting, Superintendent Joshua Edwards accepted a $50,000 donation for Southwestern Elementary School on behalf of the estate of Gary Roupp, who retired in 2007 from the elementary school.

“It is to be used however we see fit,” said Edwards Thursday morning of the notification that came with the donation.

Roupp’s estate also donated more than $35,000 that will be used to overhaul the stage in Southwestern High School’s gymnasium, which is used for productions, athletic events and graduation.

The project will include new curtains and improvements to the lighting and sound system, according to Edwards.

Roupp (photo) passed away on Dec. 14, 2022, at Silver Oaks Health Campus in Columbus, Indiana. He was 69 years old.

Roupp was a 1972 Columbus North graduate and attained degrees from Franklin College (1976) and Indiana University (1981). He retired in 2007 after a 31-year teaching career.

Southwestern also received a donation of $2,500 from the Blue River Community Foundation Hometown Fund to assist with the school system’s “Summer Feed and Read” program.

Also Wednesday, the school board approved a $51,500 proposal for floor improvements at Southwestern Elementary School.

The board also gave Edwards permission to hire staff as needed prior to the July and August public board meetings. Edwards stated the school system is currently seeking bus drivers, a custodian and teacher assistants.

Southwestern is currently fully-staffed for all of its full-time teaching positions.

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Ashton Willis added to her family legacy with another showmanship honor after winning the 2023 Shelby Royal at the 174^th Annual Shelby County Fair.

Willis, a 2022 Eastern Hancock High School graduate, arrived in time from Levelland, Texas, to compete Wednesday night at the Shelby County Fairgrounds. She just finished her freshman year at South Plains College and knew there was one final opportunity to capture a showmanship title.

“My mom and both my aunts won their spring showmanship in their county and there are six of us cousins and none of us had ever won it before,” said Willis after defeating five other competitors Wednesday night. “Now I am the only one to do it, so it’s very, very sweet. I am done now, which is very sad, but I am happy to go out on that.”

The Shelby Royal determined best overall showmanship over six different species. The contestants were tasked with controlling and showing pigs, horses, goats, sheep, dairy cows and beef cows.

Macy Reed steadies a horse to present to the judge Wednesday at the 2023 Shelby Royal at the Shelby County Fairgrounds.

Willis is a veteran showman and livestock judge but was caught off guard when it came to showing one particular species.

“I just found out we were doing horses like three hours ago so I ‘YouTubed’ a video on how to do that,” said Willis. “I know I did terrible but I didn’t let go and I knew the pattern (to show the horse) and when to stop.”

Willis relied on her experience to get through the nearly two-hour competition.

“In previous years I would get so worked up about the animals I was going to get,” she said of the random draw for each species. “I was so nervous I would get a bad (animal). And when I did get a bad one it just ruined my whole night.

“Tonight, with it being my last time, I was like if I get a bad one I just have to roll with it and know with the next species I will make it better. I can’t let it affect me. So the unknown as to how these animals react is a bit scary but you just have to stay calm because they can sense your emotions. If you get frustrated, they get frustrated too.”

Willis got through the pig and horse showings then had a goat that wasn’t ready to totally cooperate.

“My goat … she was stubborn,” said Willis with a laugh. “Once I fixed her chain, she was good. I was very thankful with the animals I got.”

Krista Brown (far left), Avery Everhart (center) and Macy Reed prepare dairy cows to be judged at the 2023 Shelby Royal.

Also competing Wednesday were Morristown High School’s Avery Everhart, Franklin High School’s Abigail Bridges, Shelbyville High School’s Macy Reed, Hauser High School’s Brady Miller, and Southwestern High School graduate and Oklahoma State University student Krista Brown.

Willis started livestock judging when she was in seventh grade and earned enough money to help pay for college in the Texas panhandle, 17 hours from home. Her goal is to finish the two-year program at South Plains and complete her degree in Animal Science at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas.

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The Decatur County Sheriff's Department is seeking the public's assistance for any information regarding a theft that occurred Tuesday night at the Greensburg Airport hangars.

Items taken include several tools and air compressors.

Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact the Decatur County Sheriff's Office Tip Line (812) 222-TIPS (8477) or Decatur County Communcations Center non-emergency line at (812) 222-4911 or dial 911.

Callers may remain anonymous.

The heir apparent to running Style Dance Academy just graduated from Triton Central High School.

Kearsley Kermode, the youngest of Steve and Kari Kermode’s three children, first arrived at the Franklin dance studio when she was four days old. By the time she could walk, she was dancing.

A few years later, she was teaching her own dance classes. And now she is on track to take over the family business when Kari is ready to retire.

Triton Central High School’s Salutatorian for the Class of 2023 will attend Franklin College in the fall to study Accounting and Finance.

“It’s always been my dream since I was a little girl,” said Kermode. “The biggest thing is I wanted to be like my mom. With that came the studio.

“As I’ve gotten older, dance is something I love. Teaching is something I love with the kids. I love all of it. I just want (the dance studio) to continue and maybe, eventually, pass it down to my kids.”

With three family members already alumni of Franklin College, an older brother transferring to the school and a cousin now enrolled there, and the dance studio nearby, going to Franklin College was always in the cards.

“I have wanted to go to Franklin College since middle school,” she said. “My dad went to Franklin. My grandpa went to Franklin. My aunt went to Franklin. We are definitely a Franklin family.”

Kermode will live in Franklin with her older brother, Hayden Kermode, who will play football for the Grizzlies after two seasons at Concordia University in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

“Growing up at Triton Central, it’s a small school. I think Franklin College has that same small school aspect,” said Kermode. “It’s close to home. I am going to be working at the studio too in Franklin. It definitely is the best option. I really like the campus and the community aspect there as well.”

Kermode’s summer plans suddenly changed nearly two weeks ago when she was crowned First Runner-up and Miss Congeniality at the Shelby County Fair Queen Pageant, held at Triton Central High School.

“I did it for the fun of it,” she said. “I wasn’t expecting a whole lot out of it. I don’t do any 4-H stuff or FFA stuff so I wasn’t sure how that would affect me competition wise. Stage-wise, I was super comfortable. That was the easier part for me. It was fun. I had a blast.”

Her ranking as salutatorian, not the same as a member of the fair queen court, brought another unique experience – speaking at her graduation ceremony.

“That was very nerve-wracking,” she admitted. “I say one of my biggest fears is public speaking. My parents helped me a lot. We practiced a lot. It wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be.”

Kermode asked members of the graduating class to raise a hand if they attended Triton Central Elementary School. She asked the same question if they attended Triton Central Middle School. Then she asked the crowd to raise a hand if they went to Triton Central.

“I felt like that was a really cool moment to see because much of the whole room had their hands up,” said Kermode. “It was a testament to the community and the home that TC is for everybody.”

Even for her older brother Keaton, who is about to move half way around the world. Keaton Kermode brought national attention to Style Dance Academy in the summer of 2022 when he reached the finals of the television show “So You Think You Can Dance.”

Week after week as he advanced on the show, the Kermode family gained more notoriety.

“It didn’t hit as much when we were watching him on TV at home,” said Kearsley. “But when I went out to California and actually went to the show, every time we would watch an episode and Mom would be crying … we were like, ‘Why are you crying?’

“And then I go and he hasn’t even danced yet and I am sobbing. It’s just the most surreal thing and we are just so proud of him. It was something you never would expect to happen to you or your family.”

Keaton Kermode, who came home for graduation and attended the fair queen pageant to support his sister, has secured a role as a backup dancer for a musical artist that will be performing in China.

An accomplished dancer herself, Kearsley Kermode is ready to focus on her own dream of keeping Style Dance Academy around for many more years.

“My mom, she does it all right now,” said Kearsley. “We have lots of teachers that help and they are great. It’s definitely a full load where she does the business stuff during the day and at night she teaches classes and runs everything else. That’s what I want to do.”

This is the third in a series of feature stories from the Shelby County Post on Shelby County’s Class of 2023 valedictorians and salutatorians.

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The City of Shelbyville is receiving $406,898 as part of the National Opioid Settlement to support projects and improve mental health and recovery services for Hoosiers.

As part of the National Opioid Settlement, the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration’s Division of Mental Health and Addiction (DMHA), in partnership with Governor Eric J. Holcomb, is awarding a total of $19 million in one-time funding to support evidence-based prevention, treatment, recovery and harm reduction services, expand the behavioral health workforce and implement other services and initiatives across the state, to 30 local units of government, service providers, and community organizations.

“While the state has a role to play in the fight against the drug epidemic, real change happens at the local level,” said Douglas Huntsinger, executive director for drug prevention, treatment and enforcement for the State of Indiana, in a media release. “Any time we have an opportunity to infuse more dollars into a community for the benefit of Hoosiers, we take advantage of it. These funds will go a long way toward building out the care continuum and improving outcomes for Hoosiers with substance use disorders and mental health needs.”

The State of Indiana is receiving approximately $507 million over an 18-year period as part of the National Opioid Settlement with distributors McKesson, Cardinal Health and AmerisourceBergen and manufacturer Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and its parent company Johnson & Johnson. DMHA has developed a framework for how the State plans to use its appropriation for abatement purposes.

DMHA received 78 proposals requesting a total of $93 million in response to the grant. Local units of government were required to provide match funds in order to qualify for funding.

The grant funds will add more staff within the community to help those dealing with mental health issues, according to the City of Shelbyville’s Behavioral Health & Justice Equity Director Keyen Macklin.

The funding will add another community navigator and counselors to Major Health Partners’ staff; assist with staffing and funding for The Bridge program, a local nonprofit; add another staff member to the city’s Behavioral Health & Justice Equity department; and provide funding to assist first responders dealing with mental health issues.

The grant covers a two-year period. Macklin expects there to be more funding available in the future.

“We think so. There has not been an announcement yet,” said Macklin. “We think it will continue for sure.”

Additionally, 15 community mental health centers across the state are receiving $57 million in Crisis Receiving and Stabilization grants. These grants will support the advancement of an integrated crisis response system that provides Hoosiers experiencing a mental health and/or substance use crisis someone to contact, someone to respond, and a safe place for help.

“Crisis receiving and stabilization services are critical to providing crisis services,” said Jay Chaudhary, director of the Division of Mental Health and Addiction. “Currently, too many Hoosiers experiencing a mental health crisis end up in emergency departments or county jails. These grants will help bridge gaps and offer a therapeutic and compassionate alternative pathway for individuals and communities in crisis.”

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Twenty four Indiana FFA members from across the state are preparing for the opportunity to serve as an Indiana FFA State Officer for the upcoming year.

After a week of FFA engagement opportunities, seven individuals will be selected to fulfill the roles of president, secretary, northern region vice president, southern region vice president, treasurer, reporter and sentinel.

During the 94th Indiana FFA State Convention, the candidates will participate in a rigorous interview and selection process, in which, the chosen candidates will be announced at the final session on June 22.

“Indiana FFA students always go above and beyond, and it is an honor to work closely with the State FFA Officers each year,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, Indiana’s Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “I look forward to seeing who is selected to lead this group of outstanding students for the next year, and I wish everyone competing the best of luck.”

Once selected, the newly-elected officers will embark on a year of service, providing direction and overseeing the development of the student-led organization, which has more than 13,000 members statewide.

Along with promoting FFA, agriculture and agricultural education, a majority of their responsibilities include conducting FFA chapter visits, facilitating leadership conferences, and hosting career and leadership development events, to name a few.

This year, due to the large number of candidates, a preliminary selection round was held on May 27 at the Indiana FFA Leadership Center. Twenty-four candidates participated in four selection rounds. Indiana FFA state staff announced the 16 state officer candidates proceeding to the final candidate interviews at the state convention.

The following list includes the 24 Indiana FFA State Officer candidates:

*denotes moving forward to the final round

• Brenden Blosser, NorthWood FFA*
• Alexis King, Elkhart Community FFA
• Caylee James, Prairie Heights FFA*
• Conner Keeslar, Prairie Heights FFA*
• Lucas Hartman, Prairie Heights FFA
• Logan Forbing, Carroll @ Ft. Wayne FFA*
• Caden Sixberry, Southmont FFA*
• Kayla Vandenberg, Wm Henry Harrison FFA
• Tanner Weakley, Western Boone FFA*
• Maddax Stewart, Rossville FFA
• Carson Rudd, Carroll @ Flora FFA*
• Grace Allee, Hamilton Heights FFA*
• Brodie Carr, South Putnam FFA*
• Kenzie Slough, Shakamak FFA*
• August Whitman, Sullivan FFA
• Kailee Cooper, Owen Valley FFA*
• Jayden Simpson, North Putnam FFA*
• Camille Thopy, Southwestern Shelby FFA*
• Ella Jones, Indiana Ag & Tech FFA
• Kelby Roberts, Rushville FFA*
• Madalyn Denton, Blue River Valley FFA*
• Katelynn Larrimore, Salem FFA
• Blaine Wagner, North Decatur FFA*
• Erica Weaver, Franklin County FFA

“As a past state officer myself I know the stress that comes with running for a State Officer position,” said Skylar Clingan, Assistant Director of the Indiana FFA Association. “This year we have a great group of students who want this role and wish to give back to their communities and to FFA. That is truly a privilege for our organization. I wish all contenders the best.”

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Deana Carter had no plans to leave the Shelby County Fair Kickoff Concert without performing her biggest hit, “Strawberry Wine.”

As she thanked those in attendance for her nearly 90-minute concert Monday night at the fairgrounds grandstand, a few simple strums on her guitar brought a good portion of the crowd to their feet to sing along.

Like strawberry wine and seventeen

The hot July moon saw everything

My first taste of love, oh bittersweet

The green on the vine like strawberry wine

The song was Carter’s first single off her debut album, “Did I Shave My Legs For This?” Released in August of 1996, it was named Song of the Year at the Country Music Association Awards in 1997.

Twenty-six years later it still resonates of a simpler time when the emotions of first love overcame a young girl.

“It’s amazing,” said Carter after the performance Monday. “It’s like our ‘Stairway to Heaven’ or ‘Sweet Home Alabama.’ I joked about ‘Hotel California’ in the show. For country to have a sort of anthem, it’s really what it is because it takes everybody to a place in their life that is real and true.

“We all went through our first experiences with things. I just sang it from an honest place of what I experienced. And it was so personal to me, and to see it be so personal to everybody else is really and honor and a privilege. I never dreamed I would have a song like that. Being from Nashville, I know how rare that is.”

Raised in Nashville, Carter, the daughter of singer Fred Carter Jr., tried to ignore her country music roots by enrolling in the University of Tennessee to major in rehabilitation therapy.

“I went to college and worked in a hospital and I did some other things but it just pulled at my heart,” said Carter. “Songwriting is really where it started.”

Although she did not write Strawberry Wine, she connected with it immediately despite other artists passing on the option to record the song.

Carter’s debut album sold over five million copies and changed her life forever. She has since released six more albums for both recognizable and independent labels.

Her visit to Shelbyville was the fifth stop on her 2023 Barefoot Again Tour that will take her across the country from New York and New Jersey to Hawaii. The tour includes a stop at the Grand Ole Opry in her hometown on Aug. 25, one day before she performs at the Red, White, & Brauen Music Fest in Jasper, Indiana.

While performing is still a passion, Carter has found working with new artists and passing on her knowledge and experience to be rewarding.

“The new artists I get to write with and work with that were fans, and mentoring new artists has been really nice,” she said. “It’s a great fulfillment for me there. And seeing them just take off and do so well just warms my heart. That keeps me doing it.”

The Shelby County Fair Board was searching for the right artist to bring to the 174^th annual county fair. With Carter, the board got a storyteller and musician that truly entertained the crowd on a beautiful night in Shelbyville.

“First of all, the people are just so kind in town and take care of us,” said Carter. “Everybody coming out and just seeing the love and the memories and everyone connecting to the music from some point in their life.

“We are at a point now doing this long enough where you really do have that connection with people. It’s just so special to be out and doing this long enough that its staying power and it means something to people.”

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Morristown High School’s Salutatorian for the Class of 2023 has a plan. He just doesn’t have his whole life planned out.

Chase Theobald finished .003 behind Valedictorian Maggie Lutes when the final grades were tabulated. Both expressed their friendship never wavered despite the prestigious honor at stake.

“I think it was competitive,” said Theobald with a smile. “We are good friends. We knew whoever got it, we would be happy for each other.”

The son of Jason and April Theobald is headed to IUPUI to study Mechanical Engineering.

“It was close to home. I like the campus there,” said Theobald. “It surprised me. It’s really nice. And I have some buddies there.”

Theobald is currently working for an AG research business and enjoying the free time graduation has afforded him in a month that is typically busy for high school athletes. He was part of soccer, basketball and track and field programs while at Morristown and was a member of the National Honor Society, the National Art Honor Society and the Student Advisory Council.

As salutatorian, Theobald was asked to put a speech together for the graduation ceremony. He felt remiss if he didn’t mention his grandfather, Kevin McMichael, and fellow student Colt Andry, who passed away on April 17.

“I wanted to put my grandpa in there and have our classmate who passed away, Colt Andry, in there,” explained Theobald. “The theme was our community is pretty unique. There are not a lot of places around here that have such closeness and back each other up.”

The death of Andry and the rallying around Quinton Batton, who battled leukemia which forced him to miss the 2021-2022 basketball season, put plenty of stress on the small school student body.

“Like I said in my speech, we all came together and helped each other through it,” said Theobald. “I didn’t think anyone was alone through it. We talked it out. The community really made it easier.”

Theobald took long looks at the engineering programs at Trine University, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, and Purdue University but found IUPUI to be his “best option.”

While Theobald knows the classes will get harder as he pursues his degree, he has no plans to change his work ethic that brought him to the top of Morristown’s graduating class.

“I will have the same mindset that I had in high school,” he said. “Keep studying and working hard each and every day.”

This is the second in a series of feature stories from the Shelby County Post on Shelby County’s Class of 2023 valedictorians and salutatorians.

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The Board of Works approved several street closures for Mainstreet Shelbyville Inc. Tuesday morning for upcoming planned events around downtown Shelbyville.

Wine Walk is the next event in downtown Shelbyville. Nine wineries will take part in the June 23 showcase.

West Washington St. will be closed west of the downtown fountain at 8 a.m. to allow for tables and registration booths to be set up and food trucks to arrive.

First Friday events will be held Aug. 4, Sept. 1 and Oct. 6 with small concerts planned for each night.

Colton Chapman will perform on Aug. 4; 45 RPM will be the entertainment on Sept. 1; and Audiodacity is the featured performer on Oct. 6.

All three events will close off W. Washington St. starting at the Public Square, which mimics the road closure for the traditional Saturday Farmers Market.

Brewfest returns to downtown Shelbyville on Sept. 22.

Hairbanger’s Ball will be the headline performer on the main stage. This event will close traffic through the Public Square from Jackson St. to Franklin St.

There will be a Shelbyville High School class reunion that night for all SHS graduates from the 1980s. The event is synced with Homecoming festivities at McKeand Stadium at Shelbyville High School.

In other board of works business Tuesday:

• Extended the clean up deadline to June 30 for the property at 639 E. Jackson St. Progress is currently to remove a house and garage that is in disrepair. The house is gone but the garage has not been leveled.
• Assessed a $150 fine and ordered the remediation of the nuisance property at 626 W. South St.
• Extended the clean up deadline for 30 days for the property at 735 Blanchard St. The resident appeared before the board to outline his health issues which caused the property to have code violations. The extension allows for referral to Shelby Senior Services to possibly find assistance with working on the property.
• Extended the clean up deadline until the June 20 meeting for the property at 529 E. Jackson St. There are family issues to be addressed as well as potential solutions the city can offer to get the property back up to code.

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The Indiana Department of Transportation contactor E & B Paving LLC announces upcoming closures and traffic changes on State Road 9 near Fountaintown.

Beginning on or after June 26, crews will close one lane of the Brandywine Creek Bridge on State Road 9 for a bridge deck replacement. There will be a temporary signal placed to allow for one 11-foot lane of traffic to move across the bridge at a time.

This work is expected to be complete by early December, weather permitting.  

Maggie Lutes knows her career interest is unique. That’s why she is thankful for her time interning at Ryobi as she prepares to head off to Trine University in the fall to study Chemical Engineering.

“The work environment and the people I work with are great,” said Lutes, who is focused on wastewater treatment while at Ryobi.

“Everyone needs a chemical engineer in manufacturing,” she said confidently.

The daughter of Doug and Monica Lutes recently graduated from Morristown High School as the Valedictorian of the Class of 2023.

“I knew exactly one week before graduation,” said Lutes of the academic honor. The race for the No. 1 ranking came down to Lutes and Chase Theobald.

Lutes was ranked third in her class as late as her junior year but rebounded to take the top spot after the final grades were posted.

“It was a wonderful surprise,” she said. “(The honor) was always kind of in the back of my mind. Chase and I are really good friends and we both are happy to see each other succeed.”

Lutes’ love of chemistry and math spurred her pursuit of Chemical Engineering at Trine, located in Angola, Indiana. Her visit to the northeast Indiana school sealed her commitment.

“I was looking at Rose-Hulman and Purdue. I visited both and liked them a lot but coming from a school as small as Morristown, it’s a tight-knit community, it felt like that at Trine,” said Lutes.

While on her campus visit, she met the Chemical Engineering Department Chair, Dr. Amanda Malefyt, which left her impressed.

Lutes realizes she is in for a big change in her life after growing up in Morristown.

“I will miss all the kids,” she said. “We have literally gone to school since preschool so it will be different not seeing those guys.”

Lutes’ summer is filled with a vacation cruise and more on-the-job training at Ryobi’s Shelbyville facility.

“I am just going to learn as much as I can,” she said.

And then she starts over as a freshman at Trine.

“Everyone hates the freshmen don’t they?” said Lutes with a laugh. “It will be fun. It will definitely be a lot different in college rather than high school.”

This is the first in a series of feature stories from the Shelby County Post on Shelby County’s Class of 2023 valedictorians and salutatorians.

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Indiana State Police detectives have arrested a New Palestine man for his alleged involvement in a road rage shooting on Interstate 465.

Stephen Uppfalt, 52, turned himself into troopers at the Indiana State Police Post Saturday after learning warrants had been issued for his arrest. Indiana State Police detectives had identified Uppfalt as a suspect in this case, and built probable cause to apply for search warrants and subsequently arrest warrants.

A Marion County Judge issued warrants on the charges of:

• Attempted Murder – Level 1 felony
• Battery with a Deadly Weapon – Level 5 felony
• Criminal Recklessness – Level 5 felony

On May 21, Indiana State Troopers investigated a road rage incident that led to gunfire on I-465 near Brookville Road. At 4:15 p.m., Indiana State Police dispatchers received a 911 call reporting a person inside a vehicle being shot. The victim was the driver of a Kia and had exited the interstate before other occupants in the car called 911.

The victim was originally the driver of the Kia, however after the shooting another person in the vehicle got into the driver’s seat to drive to the hospital. First responders were able to get to the Kia before it arrived at a hospital. There were no other injuries. The victim was transported to a local hospital by ambulance. 

Preliminary investigation determined the driver of the Kia was getting onto I-465 when another vehicle pulled alongside him. The driver was yelling out the window and swerving toward his vehicle. At some point during the confrontation the driver of the other vehicle allegedly fired several shots toward the Kia, striking the driver at least once.

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State health officials are urging Hoosiers to take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites after West Nile virus (WNV) was detected in mosquitoes for the first time this year. 

A mosquito sample collected in Clinton County has tested positive for WNV. No human cases of WNV disease have been detected this year. However, the Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) expects WNV activity to continue across the state during mosquito season, which continues through the first hard freeze. 

“With warm temperatures already here, people are spending more time outside. Taking a few precautions to avoid mosquito bites can help ensure Hoosiers enjoy outdoor activities safely,” said State Health Commissioner Lindsay Weaver, M.D., FACEP. 

Even a container as small as a bottle cap can become a mosquito breeding ground, so residents should take the following steps to eliminate potential breeding grounds:

• Discard old tires, tin cans, ceramic pots, or other containers that can hold water
• Each week, empty and scrub items that hold water such as birdbaths, toys, pools, and flowerpot saucers
• Repair failed septic systems
• Drill holes in the bottom of recycling containers left outdoors
• Keep grass cut short and shrubbery trimmed
• Clean clogged roof gutters, particularly if leaves tend to plug up the drains
• Frequently replace the water in pet bowls
• Aerate ornamental pools, or stock them with predatory fish

State health officials recommend the following personal protective measures:

• Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are active (especially during evening hours, from dusk to dawn, and in the early morning)
• Apply an EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or para-menthane-diol to clothes and exposed skin
• Cover exposed skin by wearing long sleeves and long pants in places where mosquitoes are especially active, such as wooded and shady areas
• Install or repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of the home

About 80% of people infected with WNV virus will not develop any symptoms. About 20% of people infected with WNV will develop an illness accompanied by fever, headache, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. Less than 1% of people infected with WNV will develop severe illness affecting the nervous system, which can include inflammation in the brain or in the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord.

About 10% of severe WNV disease cases are fatal. People older than 60 years and those receiving immunosuppressive medications or treatments are at greatest risk of severe WNV disease.

People who think they may have West Nile virus should contact their healthcare provider.

IDOH has developed a mosquito surveillance dashboard, which will allow Hoosiers to better understand their risk for mosquito-borne disease based on virus activity occurring throughout the state.

To view the dashboard and learn more about mosquito-borne disease, visit the IDOH website.

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The Rush County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the disappearance of Valerie Tindall.

Tindall is 17, a white female, five feet, six inches tall, 162 pounds, brown hair with hazel eyes.

She was last seen wearing a light blue shirt, jean shorts and sandals, and driving a green 2000 Honda Accord with Indiana license plate ZYK833.

Tindall is missing from Arlington, Indiana, and was last seen on Wednesday, June 7, at noon. 

She is believed to be in extreme danger.

If you have any information on Valerie Tindall, contact the Rush County Sheriff’s Department at 765-932-2931 or 911.

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The 174^th Annual Shelby County Fair kicks off Monday with a Deana Carter concert and finishes Saturday with a smash ‘em up good time at the Demolition Derby.

Country music artist Deana Carter will perform at the fairgrounds grandstand Monday at 7:30 p.m. General admission tickets are still available for the concert.

Deana Carter concert announcement: https://shelbycountypost.com/local-news/684532

The All Star Circuit of Champions TQ Midgets will battle on the dirt track in front of the grandstand Tuesday. Racing starts at 7 p.m. Grandstand tickets are $10 and pit passes are $30.

Wednesday is Touch-A-Truck night at the grandstand. This free event from 5 to 9 p.m. will feature trucks, equipment and machinery representing small businesses in Shelby County. There will be a kids bike raffle.

Thursday and Friday features Battle of the Bluegrass Truck and Tractor Pulls. Start time is 7:30 p.m. both nights. Grandstand tickets and pit passes are $15 per night.

The Demolition Derby closes out a busy week Saturday. The first heats start at 7 p.m. Adult tickets are $10; youth tickets (12 and under) are $5. Pit passes are $20.

The Shelby County Fair Board is staging a parade Saturday to celebrate the fair. At 1 p.m., the parade will depart the fairgrounds and travel through Kennedy Park, exit out onto Morris Avenue and travel to Frank St. where it returns to the fairgrounds.

For more on the parade: https://shelbycountypost.com/local-news/692583

4-H events happen all week including the Dairy Cattle Show (Monday, 9 a.m.), Beef Cattle Show (Monday, 5:30 p.m.), Swine Show (Tuesday, 8 a.m.), Poultry Show (Tuesday, 1 p.m.), Sheep Show (Tuesday, 5 p.m.), Dairy Goat Show (Wednesday, 8 a.m.), Pygmy Goat Show (Wednesday, 1 p.m.), Meat Goat Show (Wednesday, 1 p.m.), Rabbit Show (Thursday, 9 a.m.), and the Llama and Alpaca Show (Friday, 2 p.m.).

2022 Shelby County Royal winner Ellie Gosser

The Shelby County Royal is Wednesday at 7 p.m.

The midway, games and carnival rides, opens daily from 6 to 10 p.m. except Wednesday. Kids Day at the fair Wednesday has the midway opening from 1 to 5 p.m.

For more information on the fair, go to Shelby County Fair – Shelbyville, Indiana on Facebook.

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Food and fun is coming to downtown Shelbyville Friday.

The ninth annual Taste of Shelby County will feature 11 different food vendors, two musical guests, a car show, a petting zoo, bounce houses and lawn games all on the Public Square beginning at 6 p.m.

“Last year everything went … I can’t say it enough … everything went so well last year,” said Shelby County Tourism & Visitor’s Bureau Executive Director Rachael Ackley. “The downtown and how it has been restructured is so befitting of being able to do events like this.”

The family-friendly event will be held for the second time since the downtown redevelopment project was completed in late 2021.

“This year, we are up three more vendors which will fit in there nicely,” said Ackley. “It was great last year and I have no doubt this year will be about the same.”

No pre-purchase food tickets are needed this year. Vendors requested to handle purchases rather than dealing with pre-purchased tickets.

Bourbons and Brews will be on-site again in two locations downtown.

This year’s food vendors, all with local ties to the community, are:

• Spegal’s Prime Cuts
• Snowie of Indy
• Yellow House Pretzels
• Weenies on Wheels
• Kona Ice
• Mel’s Catering
• Baked by Beth
• Dave’s Double Barrel BBQ
• Queen’s Café & Dining
• Dayton’s Family Affair
• Happy Tacos

“There is quite a plethora of decisions to be made Friday night,” said Ackley. “There is lots of good food to be had.”

Musical entertainment will be provided by Southern Indiana Taiko – a Japanese taiko drums performance group (photo).

“They were a huge hit last year,” said Ackley.

The group will perform at 6:15 p.m. and 8 p.m. and conduct a clinic for anyone interested in learning in between performances.

Keith Kocher and Kevin Kocher will take the main stage at 6 p.m. and perform popular music from the 1980s.

In conjunction with the event will be the inaugural Darrin Glessner Memorial Car Show.

“This is a great way to honor Darrin because he deserves it and his family deserves that too because they have been avid supporters of any car show idea that has been thrown out in this community,” said Ackley.

Glessner, a 1986 Shelbyville High School graduate and avid car lover, passed away on Dec. 23, 2022.

Registration for the car show is $20 per car and runs from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Friday. The first 40 cars entered will receive dash plaques. Awards will be given for the top 15 and Best of Show.

Barnyard Party Pals will offer animal encounter experiences.

Bounce houses, lawn games and the Penny Lane VW photo bus also will be available Friday.

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1970 Shelbyville High School graduate Terry Moore, whose varied careers led him into the realms of broadcasting, sports statistics and real estate, passed away on May 31 at his Greenwood home at the age of 71.

Moore was an employee at WSVL Radio during the 1970s through most of the 1980s, primarily covering sports. He served as the play-by-play announcer for the inaugural Babe Ruth Bambino World Series which was held in Shelbyville in 1984.

“Terry called the action and I provided color commentary,” said former WSVL news director Jack Boyce. “He had an in-depth knowledge of baseball and described the action very well.”

Moore also provided radio coverage of Shelbyville High School girls basketball games during his time at the station.

“High school girls basketball was in its early years in Indiana and Terry did a good job of highlighting our local teams,” said Boyce.

“I worked some county and Hauser basketball games with Terry over the course of my time at WSVL,” said former station employee Mark Risley. “He was very professional and a pleasure to work with. I had occasion to see him at a meeting of former WSVL co-workers a couple of years ago. He was just a wonderful person.”

Moore (photo) was born in Richmond, Indiana, but lived his formative years in Shelbyville. He loved sports and coached Boys Club T-ball at the old Miller Street field for several summers during his junior high school and high school years.

His good-natured, self-deprecating comments about his diminutive physical stature, notwithstanding, Terry was an excellent athlete. He was a letter recipient on the 1969 and 1970 Golden Bear basketball teams that captured two sectional championships and compiled a cumulative record of 34-16.

However, baseball was his passion. He was a four-year starter for Shelbyville baseball teams from 1967 through 1970.

“Terry was a great player but an even greater teammate,” stated fellow 1970 SHS graduate Bill Horner. “He played every game in centerfield for Shelbyville for four years. He batted first and I hit second. He played center and I played left field.”

Moore and Horner were sophomores on a 1968 SHS team that won the South Central Conference championship and featured standouts Mike Ross, Mike Wagner, Kim Ash and Bruce Campbell. The Golden Bears defeated Connersville, Jeffersonville and Franklin to earn a berth in the final game of that SCC tournament. Wagner pitched a 1-0 shutout against Seymour to secure the title for Shelbyville.

“Terry was selected to the all-conference team our senior year in 1970,” continued Horner. “He was always so welcoming when we would see him keeping statistics for ESPN at IU games. He loved seeing old friends. He treasured his heritage. That is just who he was.”

The SHS alumni teamed up again after graduation to comprise a formidable outfield duo for the First Christian Church men’s softball team. Moore and Horner’s tremendous speed was a distinct advantage given the shorter 60-foot softball bases.

“(SHS Baseball) Coach Hughes would regularly have Terry and me race from home to first base during practice,” said Horner. “It was always pretty close.”     

Moore seemed to be ever-present at the Kennedy Park softball field in the late sixties and early seventies. He was in great demand on both the fast-pitch and slow-pitch circuits, sometimes with his father, Cledis, as a teammate.   

Blessed with a resonant broadcasting voice, Moore worked as a staff announcer for television station WTTV-4 from 1982 through 1988. He also worked in the channel 4 promotions department. His extensive knowledge and understanding of sports led him to a position as a statistician for WTTV and an opportunity to contract with ESPN.

Moore enjoyed success as a real estate agent for Century 21 during the day and worked stats in the evening until 1994. He worked about 40 dates a year including numerous IU games.

“I am away from my family a lot from November to April,” said Moore in 1993, “but they’re very supportive.”

Moore supplied statistical information to ESPN announcers Dick Vitale, Clark Kellogg and long-time Channel 4 broadcaster Chuck Marlowe during games. Moore talked very favorably about the iconic Vitale.

“A lot of Dick Vitale’s loudness is kind of a show to give him an identity,” Moore said during a newspaper interview in 1993. “Off camera, he is really one of the nicest guys you could ever meet. He talks to kids and takes time to sign autographs — not at all obnoxious.”

Terry spent much of his time over the years coaching his children and grandchildren’s sports teams. He consistently shared his love and knowledge of sports throughout his life.  

Terry is survived by his wife, Jeanne; brother, Jim; and sister, Jill Reynolds; as well as four children and four grandchildren.

Though he lived away from his hometown for the last four decades of his life, I will always think of Terry as a Shelbyville guy. He was seven years my senior and served as my first baseball coach at the Boys Club in 1966. My mind’s eye will forever see him playing basketball on the old outdoor asphalt Boys Club basketball courts or darting around the bases and chasing down flyballs in the outfields at Kennedy Park or the old Meridian Street athletic field that for so many years served as the home site for Golden Bears baseball.

Most significantly, Terry will be primarily remembered as a congenial man who loved his family above all else. He genuinely appreciated the opportunities and blessings his life provided and consistently reflected that sentiment. He was first and foremost a kind person who held the people in his life in high esteem.

I had occasion to run into him more than twenty years ago while he was in town for a family get-together. We had a brief chat and it struck me how much he truly valued where he was from, the people he had known and how eager he always was to routinely communicate that. Terry Moore will always be a Shelbyville guy. Those who knew him are considerably richer for it.    

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The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has issued Air Quality Action Days (AQAD) on Wednesday and Thursday for all Indiana counties due to smoke from Canadian wildfires.

Current high particulate readings exist in South Bend, Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, Cincinnati and Muncie. 

Also, Detroit, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio and the Mid-Atlantic states are experiencing high levels of particulate. Due to north to northeast winds, this particulate matter is expected to continue traveling through Indiana.

Air quality may continue to be impacted beyond Thursday. Hoosiers are encouraged to visit smogwatch.IN.gov to view current and forecasted conditions and subscribe to email alerts.

IDEM encourages everyone to help reduce PM2.5 by making changes to daily habits. You can:

• Avoid burning wood in fireplaces or wood-fired boilers and any other unnecessary fires
• Reminder: Indiana’s open burning laws make it illegal to burn trash and generally prohibit open burning, visit IN.gov/openburning for more information
• Reduce activity time outdoors to reduce unhealthy exposure to PM5 and avoid exercising near busy roads
• Combine errands into one trip
• Avoid using gas-powered recreational vehicles
• Keep your engine tuned, and don’t let your engine idle (e.g., at a bank or restaurant drive-thru)
• Conserve energy by turning off lights or setting the thermostat to 70 degrees or lower

PM2.5 is composed of microscopic dust, soot, and liquid that settles deep into the lungs and cannot be easily exhaled. Those people at risk are particularly vulnerable after several days of high PM2.5 exposure.

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The thought process of sixth-grader Sarah Snapp put her on the path to a track and field state title.

In 2002, Snapp arrived for the first day of Shelbyville Middle School track practice and was told to pick an event.

Her rationale? I’m a gymnast. I can jump. Hurdling looks easy.

Hurdling is most definitely not easy but her gut instincts were correct. Seven years later, Snapp stood atop the podium at the state track and field championships at Indiana University as the fastest 100-meter hurdler in the state.

“It was a feeling of relief and disbelief,” said Snapp 15 years later from her home in Anchorage, Alaska.

Snapp’s high school success afforded her the opportunity to continue hurdling at Indiana State University. And when her track career finally came to an end, her relationship with 2006 Shelbyville graduate Pete Negron moved to the next step.

“I went to North Carolina where Pete was stationed (in the Army),” said Snapp. While there she added a Master’s degree from Meredith College in Raleigh while working as a dietician to go with her bachelor’s degree from Indiana State.

The couple then moved to Arizona and on to Germany in 2016.

“Germany was fabulous. We traveled a lot … went to the Austrian Alps … snowboarding … we went all over Europe,” she said.

Being an Army wife caused her to alter her initial college goal of working in the sports nutrition field, but that sacrifice has resulted in a life full of rich memories.

“It gave me a different direction from what I had planned,” she said. “I’ve been able to work in so many different realms of nutrition. It’s been fun. I’ve enjoyed it all.”

In 2019, they moved to Alaska where the couple now calls home. Negron is out of the Army now and studying Aviation. Snapp is the Clinical Nutrition Manager for Alaska Regional Hospital in Anchorage.

 The couple do not yet have children but as Snapp quipped, “We’ve picked up a couple of dogs along the way.”

Murtaugh (photo), now 10, traveled all over Europe with them. Riggs (main photo), 3, is a more recent addition.

With the Army life behind them, Snapp doesn’t envision any big moves in the future.

“I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else but Alaska,” said Snapp. “It’s home until we get bored.”

And for avid hikers, mountain bikers and snowboarders, Snapp adores the fact they can look out their windows at their home and see mountains.

Snapp certainly would not have predicted her life lived while a senior at Shelbyville High School. She was a state qualifier in the 100 hurdles as a junior but had a nightmare first experience at Indiana University.

She false started in her qualifying heat and was eliminated from the event. One year later, she arrived back in Bloomington as a sectional and regional champion with the fourth fastest seed time for the state finals.

“People knew who she was but she was not seeded to win,” said Steve Browning, Shelbyville’s hurdling coach at the time. “We had a great week of practice (leading into the state meet). We went to IU. We ate pizza. We ran together. It was just her and I on the track.”

Browning (photo, left with Snapp in June of 2008) never mentioned the false start from one year earlier. Instead, the focus was on getting through the first three hurdles.

“We practiced over and over. We never ran four hurdles all week,” said Browning. “She was programmed to run her race.”

Snapp still had to overcome that nagging thought in the back of her head.

“I remember being very nervous, telling myself to don’t false start,” she recalled.

Snapp ran her qualifying heat in 14.60 seconds which secured her the second seed in the championship race behind Fort Wayne Wayne’s Chelsea Ross, who had the fastest time in the state that year.

Browning believed Snapp was the best hurdling technician in the race. She just needed to avoid being left behind out of the starting blocks.

At the gun, Ross exploded toward the first hurdle. She quickly got into trouble when she clipped an early hurdle which took her out of contention.

“She was just in front of me, and I heard her smoke a hurdle and her arms went flying,” said Snapp in a post-race interview that day. “I was like, ‘Oh … Oh!’”

Snapp cleared every hurdle cleanly and crossed the finish line in 14.65 -- .05 ahead of runner-up Rebecca Neville of Merrillville.

“I knew at the sixth hurdle she would win,” said Browning, who remembers running to the athlete’s tent after the race and jumping a fence, which did not make race officials happy.

“The officials tried to stop me. There was no stopping me,” said Browning.

Snapp and Browning continue to stay in contact, especially around this time of year when the anniversary of the state championship hits the calendar.

“He walked me down the aisle (at my wedding),” said Snapp. “He is a good life mentor.”

Snapp was a standout two-sport athlete at Shelbyville. She qualified for the state gymnastics meet as a freshman where she competed in all four events.

“It’s an honor and a privilege to coach special athletes,” said Browning. “Her discipline. Her work ethic. She never complained. She never said, ‘No.’”

Browning knew Negron as well as a Golden Bear and carries nothing but positive memories of the pair.

“They are a great couple of kids. Great student-athletes. Great role models,” said Browning.

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TWG Development is proposing an 138-unit apartment complex along Webster St. on the city’s west side.

Before the project can begin, TWG needs to have the properties at 837 Webster and 875 Webster (photo) rezoned from Light Industrial to Business General to qualify for workforce housing tax credits. The application deadline from the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) is July 3.

The motion to rezone was approved at Monday’s Common Council meeting and now moves on to a special Plan Commission meeting next Monday.

The Indianapolis-based firm specializes in multi-family housing developments that it manages and maintains for a minimum of 15 years after construction completion, according to TWG Development Director Marisa Conatser.

Mayor Tom DeBaun questioned Conatser on the 15-year term and what happens after that time frame. Conatser said the 15-year term is required by the IHCDA and the application process starts again to continue receiving tax credits that can be used for remodels or updates to the property.

The proposed “Eight37 Lofts” will consist of 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom units designed for individuals or families making between $33,000 and $63,000 annually.

The units are designed to attract individuals in such occupations as health care, retail hospitality, childcare and education, public service and general factory and warehouse workers.

Funding comes from the IHCDA and is not Section 8 housing, according to the TWG proposal.

The units will sit on approximately seven acres along Webster St., near the Dollar General store.

“This makes our community that much more marketable,” said DeBaun during the meeting. “We talk about the opportunity to keep our children home. This gives them the opportunity to come back home. Unlike some communities in the metro area, we gladly accept those engineers, architects and accountants. I am happy to see a project of this nature.”

If TWG receives the tax credits during the IHCDA awards period in November, construction is slated to begin in the spring or summer of 2024 with completion scheduled for the fall of 2025.

In other council business Monday:

• Approved a transfer resolution for $249,999 that will be used to finalize the purchase of a new ladder fire truck expected to be delivered by the end of the month. The $1.1 million truck was due for arrival in 2022. That cost was not budgeted for 2023, hence the resolution of reverting funds already appropriated for a project that did not come to fruition, according to city clerk-treasurer Scott Asher.

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Pending approval from the City of Shelbyville police chief and fire chief, the Shelby County Fair will stage a parade Saturday near the Shelby County Fairgrounds.

Shelby County Fair Board representative Christa Weaver appeared before the Board of Works Tuesday morning at City Hall to finalize the details of the parade, which will kick off the 174^th Annual Shelby County Fair that starts Monday.

Scheduled to start  at 1 p.m. Saturday on the fairgrounds, the parade route (graphic) will exit the fairgrounds on to Glenn Avenue and turn right on E. Franklin St. and travel through Kennedy Park along Minster Drive and exit out from the park along Alice St. before turning right onto Morris Ave.

The parade will pass in front of Forest Hill Cemetery before turning right on to Frank St. and return to the fairgrounds.

Weaver estimates approximately 30 entrants into the parade which will include horses, antique tractors, classic cars, 4H groups on floats and the Shelby County Fair Queen.

The Board of Works approved the parade route as long as local emergency services sign off on potential road closures that could impact service runs.

“We can make it work,” said Shelbyville Fire Chief Brian Tackett.

In other board business:

• Approved the street department posting three “Blind Pedestrian Signs” in the Clearview subdivision to warn residents and alert traffic.
• Approved the closure of W. Franklin St. Monday from Harrison St. to the parking garage. Duke Energy has service work planned along Franklin St. that should take one day to complete, according to Street Commissioner Doug Hunt.

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Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) detectives arrested a suspect for his alleged role in the death of Austin Bunn.

On May 8, just before 8 p.m., IMPD North District officers responded to the 7800 Carlton Arms Drive on a report of a person shot. Officers located an adult male inside who sustained injuries consistent with a gunshot wound(s). The victim was transported to an area hospital in critical condition.

IMPD homicide detectives responded to the scene to begin the investigation. At the time detectives identified all parties involved and detained a person of interest who was released pending further investigation. The Indianapolis-Marion County Forensic Services Agency responded to identify and collect potential forensic evidence.

On May 9,  Bunn, 19, died from his injuries. The Marion County Coroner’s Office assisted and determined the exact manner and cause of death.

Detectives continued their investigation and developed probable cause for the alleged suspect. The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office (MCPO) filed a reckless homicide charge and a warrant was issued for his arrest. On Monday, the suspect, Eric Salinas, 21, was taken into custody.

Bunn was an employee of the Indiana Department of Corrections at the Pendleton Correctional Facility. Salinas was employed as an intake officer at the Hancock County Jail.

Anyone with information about this incident should contact Detective Anthony Johnson at the IMPD Homicide Office at 317-327-3475 or e-mail him at Anthony.Johnson@indy.gov

Alternatively, they can call Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at 317-262-8477 or (TIPS) to remain anonymous. Citizens can also download the mobile P3tips app for Apple or Android phones to submit a mobile tip or go to www.CrimeTips.org to submit a web tip. 

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The Indiana State Fair is actively hiring seasonal employees to help put on the 166th Indiana State Fair.

The fair is July 28 through August 20. 

The 14th annual Indiana State Fair Job Fair will be held this Thursday, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center in the Blue Ribbon Pavilion, 1202 E. 38th Street, Indianapolis. 

This year’s 166th Indiana State Fair is seeking hundreds of seasonal employees for positions related to parking, gates, security, operations, tractor shuttles, information booths, and education exhibits. Positions are ideal for college students, retirees, individuals with full-time jobs who want to earn extra money, and others.

During the event, candidates seeking a seasonal position with the 2023 Indiana State Fair can complete an application and be interviewed onsite. Applicants are asked to bring a positive attitude and a copy of their resume if they have one. Knowledge about the fair is not a prerequisite – only a willingness to help our guests.

If applicants are unable to attend the job fair, they may visit the State Fairgrounds Employment Office, located in Fall Creek Pavilion beginning June 13 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

For more information on the job fair or to download an application for seasonal employment, visit www.indianastatefair.com.

FAIRLAND -- The 174^th Annual Shelby County Fair has its queen.

Hallie Schweitzer, a 2023 Triton Central graduate, was named the 2023 Shelby County Fair Queen Sunday night at a pageant held at Triton Central High School’s auditorium.

Schweitzer was one of 12 contestants judged on their interview skills, professional wear, and evening gown presentation. Schweitzer will be joined by a pair of Triton Central graduates on her court.

Kearsley Kermode (photo, third from left), a 2023 TC graduate, was named Miss Congeniality as voted by the other contestants, and was later crowned First Runner-up.

Madison Brown (photo, far right), another 2023 TC graduate, was Second Runner-up.

Beth Hodgin (photo, far left), a 2022 Morristown graduate now attending Ivy Tech, was the Third Runner-up.

Lennox Scheidler was selected as Little Miss Shelby County. Scheidler, age 5 and a kindergarten student at Loper Elementary in Shelbyville, bested seven other competitors Sunday.

Steven Wilson, age 7 and a second grader at Triton Central Elementary, was named Little Mr. Shelby County.

The Shelby County Fair runs from June 12-17 at the Shelby County Fairgrounds.

Schweitzer (photo), Triton Central’s co-valedictorian and a highly-decorated athlete, admitted she was not sure what she signed up for when she was asked to join the pageant.

“This is really exciting because I’ve done 4H and I’ve gone to the fair basically since I was born. Growing up here in Shelbyville, I think this is a really cool thing to do before I head off to college,” said Schweitzer.

The 12 contestants met with the panel of judges Sunday afternoon for an interview that was worth 50 points – or half of the total points in the competition. The contestants were judged on their poise and communication skills.

At 6 p.m. at Triton Central’s auditorium, the contestants took to the stage in front of a large crowd gathered to watch the event. The professional wear portion of the competition was worth 20 points while the evening gown portion, which also included answering a randomly-drawn question in front of the judges, was worth 30 points.

Schweitzer admitted she was nervous.

“It was so much fun being with everybody but we were very confused most of the time,” said Schweitzer while laughing. “We had our practice on Friday and it was the first time we walked through everything. It’s very specific … you turn here … and for this long … and this amount of time. It made me very nervous.”

Schweitzer is used to performing in front of large crowds as a volleyball, basketball, cross country and track and field athlete but she admitted the pageant world is not something she had experienced before Sunday.

“It was very different,” she said. “One time I was talking to my mom and I said, ‘What am I even doing? What is this pageant?’

“I was just going along with it and it was a lot of fun.”

Hallie Schweitzer is crowned 2023 Shelby County Fair Queen by 2022 Shelby County Fair Queen Emma Deaton Sunday at Triton Central High School's auditorium.

Schweitzer, age 18, will attend Purdue University in the fall to study Nursing. Her goal is to become a pediatric nurse practitioner.

Kermode, 18, Triton Central’s four-year class president and president of the student council, will attend Franklin College in the fall to study Accounting and Business. She wants to eventually take over her family’s dance studio.

Brown, another top student at TC and well-decorated athlete, will attend Indiana University to study Biology.

After Sunday’s pageant, the trio of Tigers and Hodgin will have a much-busier fair week schedule.

“I don’t show (animals) but I have 4H projects I’ve already turned in,” said Schweitzer. “I will get to see them but I don’t have to miss out on being the queen. I am so excited. And to be with my court all week – it’s going to be so much fun.”

Schweitzer’s coronation also enters her into the 2024 Indiana State Fair Queen pageant.

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The Johnson County Prosecutors Office is reviewing a domestic dispute that ended with two arrests Friday.

Just after 11 p.m., the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 2200 block of Marina Court, Greenwood, in the Willow Lakes Subdivision. The sheriff's office report says officers found probable cause to make two arrests; Joseph Lee Gourley, 37, and Katie Elizabeth Gourley, 33. Both reside at the Marina Court address.

Joseph and Katie Gourley were both arrested for domestic battery with injury, a misdemeanor. They both posted bond and were released from the Johnson County Jail.

Joseph Lee Gourley indicated that he was employed by the Lawrence Fire Department, as a firefighter.

Katie Elizabeth Gourley indicated that she was employed by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department as a detective.

The Johnson County Prosecutors Office has been forwarded the case for review and criminal charges.

A free lunch and an opportunity to purchase dessert at the Strawberry Festival drew hundreds of residents to downtown Shelbyville Friday afternoon.

The City of Shelbyville’s annual Government Day lunch offered free hot dogs, chips and a drink. Mayor Tom DeBaun (photo) manned the grill set up near City Hall on a bright, sunny day.

Many city officials were on hand to talk with residents in a more casual setting, according to DeBaun, who is in the final year of his third term as mayor.

“We started this when Betsy Stephen was mayor many years ago,” said DeBaun while on his break from grilling hot dogs. “It was originally brought forward by what used to be the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns and we just stuck with it. It’s another opportunity to mingle with the public in a relaxed fashion.

“We provide hot dogs which entices people to come down. We always get questions. People always want to see the equipment (on display) and ask various questions and the department heads are available so I can connect them to the person they need to talk to. It’s an opportunity to meet with people and get some feedback or provide some information. And we’ve been doing it for almost 30 years.”

In turn, Government Day ties in with Shelby Senior Services’ annual Strawberry Festival on the west side of the Public Square.

“It’s a nice partnership. We started doing that a few years ago,” said DeBaun. “It’s nice to be able to have that coordination and it increases the number of people who are downtown and it benefits both of us.”

The tents for the Strawberry Festival were set up just west of the refurbished Julius Joseph Fountain. On down W. Washington St., which was closed to traffic at S. Tompkins St., tables and chairs were set up near the tent where city officials were serving lunch.

“The downtown is doing exactly what we said it was going to do,” said DeBaun when asked about staging a downtown event without altering traffic along State Road 9 as it passes through downtown Shelbyville. “It is set up and functioning exactly like I told the public it was going to.”

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The officials at the Indiana Department of Environmental Management have called for an Air Quality Action Day on Friday for several Indiana counties.

Carroll, Warren, Tippecanoe, Clinton, Howard, Fountain, Montgomery, Boone, Tipton, Hamilton, Madison, Delaware, Randolph, Vermillion, Parke, Putnam, Hendricks, Hancock, Henry, Vigo, Clay, Owen, Morgan, Johnson, Shelby, Rush, Sullivan, Greene, Monroe, Brown, Bartholomew, Decatur, Knox, Daviess, Martin, Lawrence, Jackson and Jennings.

This Air Quality Action day will be in effect until 11:59 p.m.

An Air Quality Action Day means that a combination of the high temperatures, light winds, and other factors, are expected to produce conditions where high levels of ozone emissions may exceed federally mandated standards.

Here are some recommended actions that the public can take to reduce ozone forming emissions:

Walk, bike, carpool or use public transportation.

Avoid using the drive-through and combine errands into one trip.

Avoid refueling your vehicle or using gasoline-powered lawn equipment until after 7 p.m.

Turn off your engine when idling for more than 30 seconds.

Conserve energy by turning off lights or setting the air conditioner to 75 degrees or above.

It’s a big get-together for lunch and dessert in Shelbyville’s downtown Friday.

Two annual events have merged to make for a good meal. The City Of Shelbyville hosts its Government Day Lunch while Shelby Senior Services holds its annual Strawberry Festival.

Kim Koehl with Shelby Senior Services.

Both events begin at 11 a.m.

Koehl says the Senior Services event is as much about relationships as it is fundraising.

The Strawberry Festival has its downtown site but it also serves at a site at Major Health Partners.