High School Sports Calendar

Friday, Feb. 26
BOYS SWIMMING: IHSAA State Finals at Indianapolis, 6 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Monroe Central at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Southwood at Bluffton, 6 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 27
BOYS SWIMMING: IHSAA State Finals at Indianapolis, diving prelims and semifinals, 9 a.m., championship and consolation finals, 1 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Southern Wells at Wes-Del, 6 p.m.

Tuesday, March 2
BOYS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at Norwell - Maconaquah vs. Norwell, 6 p.m., FW Wayne vs. Bellmont, 7:30 p.m.; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Bluffton - Woodlan vs. Bluffton, 7 p.m.; IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Southern Wells - Lakeview Christian vs. White’s, 7 p.m.

Wednesday, March 3
BOYS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Southern Wells - Cowan vs. Southern Wells, 6 p.m., Wes-Del vs. Daleville, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, March 5
BOYS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at Norwell - Peru vs. Maconaquah-Norwell winner, 6 p.m., FW Elmhurst vs. FW Wayne-Bellmont winner, 7:30 p.m.; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Bluffton - Adams Central vs. South Adams, 6 p.m., FW Bishop Luers vs. Woodlan-Bluffton winner, 7:30 p.m.; IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Southern Wells - Liberty Christian vs. Lakeview Christian-Whites’ winner, 6 p.m., Cowan-Southern Wells winner vs. Wes-Del vs. Daleville winner, 7:30 p.m.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Norwell sectional tickets on sale
All-session tickets for the Norwell boys’ basketball sectional will be on sale in the athletic office Friday, Monday and Tuesday from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Price is $9. Season passes and reserved seating will NOT be in effect during sectional.

Baseball sign ups slated at Ossian
Northern Wells Minor League and Wells County Junior League baseball sign ups are being taken at the Ossian Town Hall, as follows: Tuesday, March 2, from 5-8 p.m; Thursday, March 4, 5-8 p.m.; Saturday, March 6, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; Thursday, March 11, 5-8 p.m.; Saturday, March 14, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Ages 4-12 and under. Cost is $55 for T-Ball, Coaches Pitch and Lower Minor and $60 for Junior League 10-and under and 12-and under. Birth certificates are needed.
Junior League tryouts are at the Norwell auxiliary gym on March 6 from 2-4 p.m. and March 12 from 5-7 p.m.

Summer youth activities planned
Registration for summer T-Ball, Farm, Junior and Baseball Leagues will be held at the City Hall building on the following dates and times:
Saturday, Feb. 27, 9 a.m. - Noon
Saturday, March 6, 9 a.m. - Noon
Thursday, March 11 6 - 8 p.m.
Sandy Koufax Baseball (13-14 years old) and girls’ softball also will be accepting registrations on March 6. The Wells Community Swim Team also will be available for information on its program.
Sandy Koufax will continue to accept registrations at the Parks Dept. office until April 2. girls’ softball will be sending registration forms home with students through area schools.
Tryouts for Farm and Junior League Baseball will be at the Bluffton Middle School on Saturday, March 13. Junior League will be from 9-10:30 a.m. and Farm League from 10:30 a.m.-Noon. Age is determined by what the participant is on May 1. T-Ball is for 5 years (parent must help coach) – 8 years, Farm League is 8 years (may or may not be placed on a team, but still eligible for T-Ball) – 10 years of age. Junior League is for 10 years (may or may not be placed on a team, but still eligible for Farm League) – 12 years of age. Sandy Koufax is for youth 13-14 year olds. Girls’ softball is for grades 2-12.
For more information please call the park office at 824-6069 or e-mail us at: parks@ci.bluffton.in.us

Register for Pee Wee Soccer
The Bluffton Parks & Recreation Dept. will be registering girls and boys currently in grades K-3 for its Pee Wee Soccer League at the City Hall Building on Saturday, March 6 from 9 a.m.-Noon. Cost is $15 per child and includes a T-shirt. The league will be held on six Saturdays, April 3-May 8 at the Bluffton City Gym.
There are some changes to the program this year. The games will be in the afternoons (starting at 1 p.m.) so not to conflict with the Upwards program and the participants will be assigned a time instead of a team. They will come the same time each week and will run through drills (by paid staff) for the first part of the time, then divided into two teams to scrimmage. They will be with the same group of children each week, but will be divided differently each week for the scrimmage. They will still be divided into grade categories of K-1 and 2-3. If you have further questions, call or e-mail the office at 824-6069 or parks@ci.bluffton.in.us

NASCAR team backing Warsaw Tigers
Warsaw-based ML Motorsports has embraced Hoosier Hysteria and the hype around the Northern Lakes Conference champion Warsaw Tigers, according to South Bend TV station Fox 28.
The NASCAR Nationwide team is racing in Las Vegas this weekend. On the trunk of the No. 70 car, driven by Shelby Howard, will be the words, “GO WARSAW! Win State.” Crew member Jeremy Marsh used to play for the Tigers and is a huge fan. He and the rest of the ML team will be watching next week as Warsaw begins sectional play.

High School Sports Calendar

Thursday, Feb. 25
BOYS BASKETBALL: Norwell at Homestead, 6:15 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 26
BOYS SWIMMING: IHSAA State Finals at Indianapolis, 6 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Monroe Central at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Southwood at Bluffton, 6 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 27
BOYS SWIMMING: IHSAA State Finals at Indianapolis, diving prelims and semifinals, 9 a.m., championship and consolation finals, 1 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Southern Wells at Wes-Del, 6 p.m.

Tuesday, March 2
BOYS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at Norwell - Maconaquah vs. Norwell, 6 p.m., FW Wayne vs. Bellmont, 7:30 p.m.; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Bluffton - Woodlan vs. Bluffton, 7 p.m.; IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Southern Wells - Lakeview Christian vs. White’s, 7 p.m.

Wednesday, March 3
BOYS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Southern Wells - Cowan vs. Southern Wells, 6 p.m., Wes-Del vs. Daleville, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, March 5
BOYS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at Norwell - Peru vs. Maconaquah-Norwell winner, 6 p.m., FW Elmhurst vs. FW Wayne-Bellmont winner, 7:30 p.m.; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Bluffton - Adams Central vs. South Adams, 6 p.m., FW Bishop Luers vs. Woodlan-Bluffton winner, 7:30 p.m.; IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Southern Wells - Liberty Christian vs. Lakeview Christian-Whites’ winner, 6 p.m., Cowan-Southern Wells winner vs. Wes-Del vs. Daleville winner, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, March 6
BOYS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at Norwell - Championship, 7:30 p.m.; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Bluffton - Championship, 7 p.m.; IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Southern Wells - Championship, 7:30 p.m.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Bluffton sectional tickets are on sale
Bluffton High School is selling boys’ sectional all-session tickets in the school office from 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m. through Friday, March 5. Ticket price is $9. Bluffton plays Woodlan at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 2.
The format for this tournament is as follows:
Session 1/ Game 1: Tuesday, March 2, 7 p.m - Bluffton vs. Woodlan;
Session 2/ Game 2: Friday, March 5, 6 p.m. - Adams Central vs. South Adams; Game 3: 7:30 p.m. - Bishop Luers vs. Winner of Game 1
Session 3/ Championship: Saturday, March 6, 7 p.m. - Winner of Game 2 vs. Winner of Game 3.

Norwell sectional tickets to go on sale
All-session tickets for the Norwell boys’ basketball sectional will be on sale in the athletic office Friday, Monday and Tuesday from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Price is $9. Season passes and reserved seating will NOT be in effect during sectional.

Baseball sign ups slated at Ossian
Northern Wells Minor League and Wells County Junior League baseball sign ups are being taken at the Ossian Town Hall, as follows: Tuesday, March 2, from 5-8 p.m; Thursday, March 4, 5-8 p.m.; Saturday, March 6, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; Thursday, March 11, 5-8 p.m.; Saturday, March 14, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Ages 4-12 and under. Cost is $55 for Tee Ball, Coaches Pitch and Lower Minor and $60 for Junior League 10-and under and 12-and under. Birth certificates are needed.
Junior League tryouts are at the Norwell auxiliary gym on March 6 from 2-4 p.m. and March 12 from 5-7 p.m.

Summer youth activities planned
Registration for summer T-Ball, Farm, Junior and Baseball Leagues will be held at the City Hall building on the following dates and times:
Saturday, Feb. 27, 9 a.m. - Noon
Saturday, March 6, 9 a.m. - Noon
Thursday, March 11 6 - 8 p.m.
Sandy Koufax Baseball (13-14 years old) and Girls’ softball also will be accepting registrations on March 6. The Wells Community Swim Team also will be available for information on its program.
Sandy Koufax will continue to accept registrations at the Parks Dept. office until April 2. Girls’ softball will be sending registration forms home with students through area schools.
Tryouts for Farm and Junior League Baseball will be at the Bluffton Middle School on Saturday, March 13. Junior League will be from 9-10:30 a.m. and Farm League from 10:30 a.m.-Noon. Age is determined by what the participant is on May 1. T-Ball is for 5 years (parent must help coach) – 8 years, Farm League is 8 years (may or may not be placed on a team, but still eligible for T-Ball) – 10 years of age. Junior League is for 10 years (may or may not be placed on a team, but still eligible for Farm League) – 12 years of age. Sandy Koufax is for youth 13-14 year olds. Girls’ softball is for grades 2-12.
For more information please call the park office at 824-6069 or e-mail us at: parks@ci.bluffton.in.us

Register for Pee Wee Soccer
The Bluffton Parks & Recreation Dept. will be registering girls and boys currently in grades K-3 for its Pee Wee Soccer League at the City Hall Building on Saturday, March 6 from 9 a.m.-Noon. Cost is $15 per child and includes a T-shirt. The league will be held on six Saturdays, April 3-May 8 at the Bluffton City Gym.
There are some changes to the program this year. The games will be in the afternoons (starting at 1 p.m.) so not to conflict with the Upwards program and the participants will be assigned a time instead of a team. They will come the same time each week and will run through drills (by paid staff) for the first part of the time, then divided into two teams to scrimmage. They will be with the same group of children each week, but will be divided differently each week for the scrimmage. They will still be divided into grade categories of K-1 and 2-3. If you have further questions, call or e-mail the office at 824-6069 or parks@ci.bluffton.in.us

Killingbeck helps Trine post win
Kalamazoo, Mich. — Trine University freshman Haley Killingbeck scored 12 points against Kalamazoo Saturday night to help the Thunder secure the fifth seed in the MIAA postseason basketball tournament.
The Thunder blasted Kalamazoo 73-52 after trailing 27-24 at halftime.
Trine (12-13, 7-9) was paced by Danielle Senf with 19 points and eight rebounds. Liz Gehrig added 15 and Kristen Julian 13. Killingbeck is a 2009 Southern Wells graduate.

Vogel shines for Blue Knights
HARROGATE, Tenn. – Behind double-doubles from post players Unique Lane and Andrea Vogel, the Urbana University women’s basketball team concluded its season with a 63-52 win over Lincoln Memorial University on Wednesday night.
Lane scored 14 points and grabbed 14 rebounds. Vogel, a freshman from Norwell, finishing with 11 points, 11 rebounds, three blocks and two steals. Vogel finished right behind Lane for the team lead in points (10.0 ppg) and rebounds (6.8 rpg). Her 44 blocks are seventh most in team history.
The Blue Knights are 17-10, matching the most wins of the decade.

Raider wrestlers top Heritage
The Southern Wells Jr. High School wrestling team defeated Heritage 51-24.
Chet Owens, Bryce Bonewit, Daniel Beeks, Bradley Woodward, Blade Rheinhart, Ethan Smith, Seth Trissel, Clay Watson and Jacob Stout were winners for the Raiders.
In exhibition, Brandt Couch, T.C. Perry, Smith, Rheinhart and Stout also posted victories.
Results are as follows:
75: K. Rothgeb (H) dec B. Couch (SW) 12-8
85: T. Wigman (H) dec. T.C. Perry (SW) 5-4
95: C. Owens (SW) pin R.J. Muldon (H) :35
100: L. Hart (H) pin A. Osborne (SW) 1:22
105: A. Conrad (H) pin J. Dunnuck (SW) 1:19
105: M. Buerney (H) pin A. Gearhart (SW) 1:09
110: B. Bonewit (SW) pin J. Gerber (H) 1:25
115: D. Beeks (SW) pin I. Troutner (H) 1:03
122: B. Woodward (SW) m. dec J. Snider (H) 13-4
122: B. Rheinhart (SW) pin J. Gerber (H) 1:10
122: E. Smith (SW) pin J. Hakes (H) 1:25
130: S. Trissel (SW) pin J. Hooks (H) :22
135: C. Watson (SW) T.Fall M. Gibson (H) 16-0
160: J. Stout (SW) pin C. Harmel (H) :33
Exhibition
75: B. Couch (SW) pin J. Brunton (H) 1:40
85: T.C. Perry (SW) pin J. Kizzmiller (H) :30
105: M. Buerney (H) dec. D. Rockwell (SW) 4-0
122: E. Smith (SW) pin D. Rittner (H) :56
138: B. Rheinhart (SW) pin J. Odem (H) 1:12
160: J. Stout (SW) pin C. Myers (H) :52

Pee Wee Soccer registration

The Bluffton Parks & Recreation Dept. will be registering girls and boys currently in grades K – 3rd for their Pee Wee Soccer League at the City Hall Building on Saturday, March 6th from 9:00 a.m. – Noon. Cost is $15.00 per child and includes a T-shirt. The league will be held on 6 Saturdays, April 3rd – May 8th at the Bluffton City Gym . There are some changes to the program this year. The games will be in the afternoons (starting at 1:00 p.m.)so not to conflict with the Upwards program and the participants will be assigned a time instead of a team. They will come the same time each week and will run through drills (by paid staff) for the first part of the time, then divided into 2 teams to scrimmage. They will be with the same group of children each week, but will be divided differently each week for the scrimmage. They will still be divided into grade categories of K-1st and 2nd-3rd. If you have further questions, call or email our office at 824-6069 or parks@ci.bluffton.in.us

(Submitted Information)

T-Ball registration

Registration for summer T-Ball, Farm, Junior and Baseball Leagues will be held at the City Hall building on the following dates and times:

Saturday, February 27th 9:00 a.m. – Noon
Saturday, March 6th 9:00 a.m. – Noon
Thursday, March 11th 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Sandy Koufax Baseball (13-14 yr old) and Girls Softball will also be accepting registration on the March 6th day and time. The Wells Community Swim Team will also be available for information on their program that day.

Sandy Koufax will continue to accept registration at the Parks Dept. office until April 2nd. Girls Softball will be sending registration forms home with students through the area schools.

Tryouts for Farm and Junior League Baseball will be at the Bluffton Middle School on Saturday March 13th. Junior League will be from 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. and Farm League from 10:30 a.m. – noon. Age is determined by what the participant is on May 1st. T-Ball is for 5 years (parent must help coach) – 8 years, Farm League is 8 years (may or may not be placed on a team, but still eligible for T-Ball) – 10 years of age. Junior League is for 10 years (may or may not be placed on a team, but still eligible for Farm League) – 12 years of age. Sandy Koufax is for youth 13-14 year olds. Girls Softball is for grades 2nd – 12th.

For more information please call the park office at 824-6069 or email us at: parks@ci.bluffton.in.us

(Submitted)

Knights defeat Jay County!

Norwell beat Jay County in boys basketball Tuesday night! (Go Knights!)
News-Banner Editor Glen Werling was there and shot some video for us. Enjoy!

Little Tiger Volleyball meeting set

Bluffton-Harrison girls in grades 6-8, interested in playing volleyball, should attend the Little Tiger Volleyball Club meeting on Monday, Feb. 22, at 7 p.m. in the Bluffton High School library. This meeting is for those already registered and those still with questions or interest in participating in this valuable program to build Bluffton volleyball. Any questions please contact Robert Ochoa 260-710-1317 or Ashley Messmer 260-494-7417.

High School Sports Calendar

Tuesday, Feb. 23
BOYS DIVING: IHSAA Diving Regional at Fishers, 6 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Southern Wells at Blue River Valley, 5:30 p.m.; Bluffton at New Haven, 6 p.m. (Freshman, 5 p.m.); Jay County at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 25
BOYS BASKETBALL: Norwell at Homestead, 6:15 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 26
BOYS SWIMMING: IHSAA State Finals at Indianapolis, 6 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Monroe Central at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Southwood at Bluffton, 6 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 27
BOYS SWIMMING: IHSAA State Finals at Indianapolis, diving prelims and semifinals, 9 a.m., championship and consolation finals, 1 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Southern Wells at Wes-Del, 6 p.m.

Southern Wells vs. Lafayette Central Catholic

Editor Glen Werling was there for the Southern Wells vs. Lafayette Central Catholic girls Regional Basketball Contest.

Lafayette Central Catholic won the game 45-38, but Southern Wells played one heck of a game.

In the first clip, News-Banner Sports Editor Paul Beitler is talking to Bluffton senior Hunter Copeland, who finished first in the 100-yard freestyle event. His championship effort enables him to compete Friday night in the preliminary round of the IHSAA state meet at Indianapolis.

In the second clip, Beitler talking to Bluffton coach Schlaura Linderwell, who was voted the sectional coach of the year by her fellow coaches. I asked her about how it felt to receive the award.

DNR biologist presented with national lifetime award

Indiana DNR Release:

Indiana Department of Natural Resources biologist Steve Backs, who has been intimately involved with the restoration of the state's wild turkey population, was recently presented with a lifetime achievement award by the National Wild Turkey Federation at its national convention.

Backs, a member of the DNR Division of Fish and Wildlife, was one of two men receiving the Federation’s Wayne Bailey Lifetime Achievement Award.

"Indiana hunters largely owe the opportunity to enjoy their sport within state lines to Steve and his lifetime body of work," said Robert E. Carter Jr. DNR director. "This recognition on a national level affirms what DNR staff members have known for a long time."

Backs has spent 31 years dedicating his career to quail, wild turkey and grouse research and conservation. During that time, the number of wild turkeys in the state has increased dramatically, and its number of turkey hunters has grown from fewer than 1,000 to more than 60,000.

In 1996, Backs was honored as the IDNR's Division of Fish and Wildlife Biologist of the Year. During his career, he has received several other service awards.

"Steve has steadily produced quality research and insight into upland bird biology, from turkeys to quail and grouse," said Robert Abernethy, NWTF's assistant vice president of agency and outreach programs. "He has authored more than 350 internal reports and published more than 20 technical manuscripts, including papers in five of nine National Wild Turkey Symposiums.

"Upland bird biology wouldn't be what it is today without his contributions."

The award's namesake was a pioneer in the restoration of wild turkey populations.

"Wayne Bailey accomplished so much in his career and everyone looked up to him," Backs said. "To receive an award named after one of my mentors is truly humbling."

High School Sports Calendar

Friday, Feb. 19
WRESTLING: IHSAA Individual State Finals at Indianapolis, first round, 6 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Southern Wells at Blackford, 6 p.m.; Bluffton at Bellmont, 6:15 p.m.; Woodlan at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 20
BOYS SWIMMING: IHSAA Jay County Sectional at Portland, diving preliminary round, 9 a.m., consolation and championship finals, 1 p.m.
WRESTLING: IHSAA Individual State Finals at Indianapolis, 9 a.m.
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Regional at Tri-Central, Southern Wells (14-8) vs. Lafayette Central Catholic (12-11), 10 a.m., Randolph Southern (18-6) vs. No. 4 Turkey Run (18-5), Noon, championship game, 8 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Mississinewa at Bluffton, 6 p.m.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Vogel helps Urbana post win
Urbana University freshman center Andrea Vogel scored 14 points and grabbed 15 rebounds to help the Blue Knights’ women’s basketball team defeat Oakland City 72-61 on Thursday evening at Urbana, Ohio.
Vogel, a 2009 Norwell graduate, was five of seven from the field and four of seven at the free-throw line.
Unique Lane topped Urbana with 26 points and Ashley Falknor added 16 points.

Bluffton freshmen whip Blackford
Jackson Lambert scored 18 points and Chandler Prible 15 Wednesday night to lead the Bluffton Tigers’ freshman basketball team to a 51-24 victory over the Blackford Bruins.
Ian Betz added eight points and Trey Mettler four, while Dalton Cunningham and Brock Pace each had three.

Wrong Fiechter
In Thursday’s sports story about Southern Wells’ wrestler Darin Fiechter. His father’s name was incorrectly stated as Rick Fiechter, instead of Lynn Fiechter. The News-Banner regrets the error and apologizes for any inconvenience it may have caused.

Hunters push deer harvest to record number

Indiana DNR Release:

INDIANAPOLIS –Indiana deer hunters had unprecedented success during the 2009 seasons, shattering the previous state record by taking more than 130,000 deer for the first time in the 59-year history of the modern era.

Reports submitted from 453 check stations across Indiana placed the 2009 total at 132,752 deer – more than 3,000, or 2 percent, above the 2008 harvest of 129,748, which was the previous record.

“It’s kind of predictable any more,” said Chad Stewart, DNR deer management biologist. “We’re going to have a record or near-record harvest every year unless things change.

“For a couple of years now we’ve had increased license sales. We’ve also had high unemployment. Maybe people have more time to be out. I wish I could say.”

One thing Stewart is sure of is there were no reports of epizootic hemorrhagic disease in 2009 after outbreaks the previous three years. EHD is an insect-borne virus that affects white-tailed deer. It is transmitted by biting insects called midges. EHD is not transmitted to humans and is not normally found in domestic animals.

“That means going into the season there were more deer on the ground available to hunters rather than disease getting them first,” Stewart said.

The full season report can be viewed at
http://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/files/fw-2009_Deer_Season_Summary.pdf.

The 2009 total was bolstered by a record 79,771 antlerless deer, 60 percent of the harvest.

The hunting season began in urban deer zones on Sept. 15, followed by a two-day youth only weekend (Sept. 26-27) and the early archery (Oct. 1-Nov. 29), firearms (Nov. 14-29), muzzleloader (Dec. 5-20) and late archery (Dec. 5 to Jan. 3) segments.

Adult males (antlered bucks) made up 40 percent of the total, of which 64 percent were 2.5 years old or older.

Hunters found the most success in the northeast corner of the state, where Steuben, Kosciusko and Noble counties ranked first, second and fourth, respectively.

Steuben hunters bagged 4,102 deer to mark the fifth straight year that county has led the state. It also was the first time any county topped the 4,000 mark in a single year. Kosciusko recorded 3,652 deer, followed by Switzerland with 3,223; Noble, 3,086; and Franklin, 3,063.

Modern-era records were set in 33 counties, and another 22 counties showed harvest increases from the 2008 season. Harvest totals declined in 36 counties compared to 2008.

Compiling the data is a lengthy process that begins in October when check stations are supplied envelopes for returning pink carbon copies of hunter-reported deer. Some stations submit reports on a weekly basis as requested; a few wait until the end of the season to return the information at one time.

DNR staff members in the Bloomington field office enter the early data, but the volume increases dramatically once the firearms season begins and additional staff from other locations is called upon to assist in entering everything from tag numbers assigned to reported deer to the sex and age of the deer, equipment used by the hunter, and the county where the deer was taken.

The information is merged into one data base in early to mid-February. The pink carbon copies are sorted by county and stored in Bloomington for three years. The data base is then checked for accurate spelling and to ensure there are no duplicate tag entries.

“That’s when my work really begins,” Stewart said. “It takes a couple of weeks to analyze the information and prepare the final report.”

The 2009 season also gave the DNR an opportunity to continue its ongoing surveillance for signs of chronic wasting disease in deer. Testing failed to detect CWD in tissue samples collected from 835 deer and has not been found in more than 11,000 specimens tested since 2002. CWD is a brain-wasting disease that is fatal to deer. It has been reported in deer in Wisconsin, Illinois, Virginia, West Virginia and several other states.

The DNR also began surveillance for bovine tuberculosis by collecting tissue samples from 431 hunter harvested deer from Franklin, Harrison and Wayne counties. The DNR is awaiting results of testing on those samples from the National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa.

Wanted: All High School Boys Basketball State Champs

IHSAA to recognize state championship teams during Parade, Reception March 27

Indianapolis, Ind. (Feb. 18, 2010)—The Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) is calling on players and coaches from all former state championship boys bas ketball teams to participate in a once-in-a-lifetime 100th Anniversary Celebration Pa rade. On Saturday, March 27, at 3 p.m., the stars of Hoosier Hysteria will step off in downtown Indianapolis to culminate the “100 Years IN 100 Days” Celebration, a state wide campaign commemorating the 100th anniversary of the boys basketball state tour nament, a milestone moment in history.



For the first time, fans will have the chance to see basketball legends from a century of championships as they ride by on floats, firetrucks and vintage cars through the streets of Indianapolis. Bands, cheerleading squads and mascots from winning schools will de light thousands of spectators as they march alongside representatives from over seventy championship teams, including the “Big-O” Oscar Robertson.



The 100th Anniversary Celebration Parade will begin at Pennsylvania and Vermont and travel down Pennsylvania past the Birch Bayh Federal Building and US Courthouse, where it will turn right onto Ohio. After one block the procession will turn left at Meridian and head south to Monument Circle. There the parade will turn right and make its way around the Soldiers’ and Sailers’ Monument before continuing south down Meridian. The route will then make a left on Georgia, where it will end its mile-long march on Pennsyl vania in front of Conseco Fieldhouse.



At Conseco Fieldhouse, viewers will salute and cheer on celebrity players and coaches as they exit the parade and walk the 100 Year Celebration Red Carpet to an honorary Indi ana Legends Reception. Following the conclusion of the parade, the IHSAA evening ses sion state finals will begin at 6 p.m. Ticket quantities are limited and may be purchased in advance at www.ihsaa.org or at any school participating in the finals.



“For former players and fans alike, the 100th Anniversary Celebration Parade will bring back memories of parading the championship trophy proudly around Monument Circle or their community after winning the state title,” said IHSAA Commissioner Blake Ress. “We believe this will be an exciting conclusion to our 100-day celebration of Hoosier Hys­teria and encourage everyone to come out and show support for their championship teams.”



Players and coaches of state championship teams who would like to participate in the parade may contact the Celebration Parade Committee by calling 317-863-2575 or emailing info@100n100.net. Additional information about the parade and the “100 Years IN 100 Days” Celebration can be found at www.100YearsIN100Days.net.

(Submitted)

High School Sports Calendar

Wednesday, Feb. 17
BOYS BASKETBALL: Bluffton Freshman at Blackford, 6 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 18
BOYS SWIMMING: IHSAA Jay County Sectional at Portland, preliminary round, 5:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 19
WRESTLING: IHSAA Individual State Finals at Indianapolis, first round, 6 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Southern Wells at Blackford, 6 p.m.; Bluffton at Bellmont, 6:15 p.m.; Woodlan at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 20
BOYS SWIMMING: IHSAA Jay County Sectional at Portland, diving preliminary round, 9 a.m., consolation and championship finals, 1 p.m.
WRESTLING: IHSAA Individual State Finals at Indianapolis, 9 a.m.
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Regional at Tri-Central, Southern Wells vs. Lafayette Central Catholic, 10 a.m.; Randolph Southern winner vs. Turkey Run, Noon; championship game, 8 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Mississinewa at Bluffton, 6 p.m.

High School Sports Calendar

Tuesday, Feb. 16
BOYS BASKETBALL: Bluffton at Leo, 6 p.m. (Freshman, 5 p.m.); Woodlan at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Norwell at South Adams, 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 17
BOYS BASKETBALL: Bluffton Freshman at Blackford, 6 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 18
BOYS SWIMMING: IHSAA Jay County Sectional at Portland, preliminary round, 5:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 19
WRESTLING: IHSAA Individual State Finals at Indianapolis, first round, 6 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Southern Wells at Blackford, 6 p.m.; Bluffton at Bellmont, 6:15 p.m.; Woodlan at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 20
BOYS SWIMMING: IHSAA Jay County Sectional at Portland, diving preliminary round, 9 a.m., consolation and championship finals, 1 p.m.
WRESTLING: IHSAA Individual State Finals at Indianapolis, 9 a.m.
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Regional at Tri-Central, Southern Wells vs. Lafayette Central Catholic, 10 a.m.; Randolph Southern winner vs. Turkey Run, Noon; championship game, 8 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Mississinewa at Bluffton, 6 p.m.

Southern Wells wins Class A Sectional

At the Class A Sectional 54 Championship Game last night at Wes-Del High School, Southern Wells won 44-25 over Cowan.
News-Banner Sports Editor Paul Beitler was there and spoke with Raider's junior Cristin Carter about the game.

DNR to present Canada goose management seminars next month

Indiana DNR Release:

If Canada geese have become a problem on your property, attend one of six seminars being presented in March by the Department of Natural Resources' Urban Wildlife Project.

The seminars will cover various aspects of Canada goose management, including relevant laws, basic biology, and methods to control goose damage. A demonstration on the proper techniques for egg and nest destruction will follow. Adhering to proper techniques is vital—if eggs are broken or completely removed from nests, the females will just lay another clutch of eggs.

The population of Canada geese in the Mississippi Flyway exceeds 1.5 million birds. Destroying eggs and nests in urban areas is helpful in controlling these numbers in areas where hunting cannot, which can reduce conflicts with people and Canada geese.

Federal rules allow landowners properly registered at https://epermits.fws.gov/eRCGR/geSI.aspx to complete Canada goose egg and nest destruction on their own property. Registrants must provide a summary report of their Canada goose nest destruction activities to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service by Oct. 31. Failure to report can result in privileges being revoked for the forthcoming year.

The first seminar is March 8 at the Community Center in Clarksville. Seminars also will be held March 10 at Recreation Building 701 inside Fort Harrison State Park in Indianapolis, and on March 11 at the Delaware County Fairground’s Heartland Hall in Muncie.

Other opportunities to attend the seminar will be March 22, at the Salomon Farm Visitors Center in Fort Wayne; March 23, at the Potato Creek State Park Nature Center near North Liberty; and March 24 at the Lake County Extension Service Office in Crown Point. All seminars run from 9:30 a.m. to approximately noon. All interested landowners, managers of corporate campuses, golf course or park employees, and the general public are invited.

The classes are free, and no registration is required. For further information, call the Urban Wildlife Biologist, (812) 334-1137 or e-mail swinks@dnr.IN.gov.

National wildlife refuges program at Wabash Interpretive Center, Feb. 28

Indiana DNR Release:

Former Salamonie property manager Neil Case will present a program on national wildlife refuges, at the Upper Wabash Interpretive Center in Salamonie Lost Bridge West, on Feb. 28, at 2 p.m. The public is welcome to this meeting of the Salamonie Bird Club.

Case has traveled the country and provided bird counts for many different wildlife areas. He is a writer whose articles may be found in several newspapers throughout the state, and in the book “Indiana Bird Watching.”

This event and gate admission is free.

Norwell girls' semifinal basketball battle

News-Banner Sports Editor Paul Beitler was at Saturday night's Class 3A Sectional 22 semifinal girls' basketball game between Norwell and Fort Wayne Elmhurst.
The video action is late in the game, as it came down to the wire.
Sadly for Norwell, the Knights lost to Elmhurst 66-63 in a hotly-contested battle. Norwell was ranked No. 2 in Class 3A and Elmhurst (17-4) was No. 6. The Knights finished out a fantastic 21-1 season. Last year Elmhurst also ended Norwell's season in sectional action, 61-43, and the Trojans went on to become the 3A state champion.

Fiechter going to state

Southern Wells senior Darin Fiechter talks about qualifying for the Indiana Individual Wrestling State Finals with News-Banner Sports Editor Paul Beitler.

On Saturday Fiechter placed 4th to insure a berth in the 130-pound weight division. His older brother, Vince, preceded him as a state qualifier in 2003. Vince finished 4th in the 125-pound class for a state medallion.
Last year, Bluffton's Matthew Gerber, who is a cousin, finished 8th for a medal.

Bluffton Tigers girls basketball

The Norwell Knights rolled over the Peru Tigers Thursday night in girls' Class 3A sectional basketball action at Fort Wayne. Pictures from the game are as follows:

In Class 2A girls' basketball sectional action Thursday night at Woodlan High School, the Bluffton Tigers lost to Adams Central. Bluffton junior Michael Vanderkolk captured several Tigers in the following photos:



Sheena Steffen
Bluffton sophomore center Sheena Steffen (31) fires a shot past Adams Central onlookers Michelle Ripley (left) and Tiffany Lee during their girls' basketball sectional battle Thursday night at Woodlan High School. (Photo by Michael Vanderkolk)


Peyton Fugate
Bluffton freshman Peyton Fugate (left) drives against Adams Central defender Madison Carroll in Thursday night's Woodlan girls' sectional game. (Photo by Michael Vanderkolk)



Kara Fiechter
Adams Central's Michelle Ripley (10) tries to stop the shot of Bluffton junior Kara Fiechter during Thursday's first-round sectional game at Woodlan. (Photo by Michael Vanderkolk)


Gina Eisenhut
Bluffton freshman Gina Eisenhut releases a shot over Adams Central's Tiffani Tonner (44) in Thursday's girls' basketball sectional game at Woodlan. (Photo by Michael Vanderkolk)


Jessica Rupright
Peru's Paige Blanton (22) and Bridgette Beard put the squeeze on Norwell sophomore Jessica Rupright as she goes up for a shot in the third quarter of Thursday's first-round sectional game at Fort Wayne.


Jessica Rupright
Sophomore Jessica Rupright of the Norwell Knights is surrounded by Peru Tigers' Sarah Gallahan (24) and Paige Blanton.


Jenelle Wilson
Norwell senior Jenelle Wilson shoots as she drives to the basket during the Knights' victory over Peru on Thursday night in the Wayne sectional at Fort Wayne.

DNR offers tips on coping with coyotes

Indiana DNR Release:

It is not uncommon anymore for coyotes to be seen occasionally in urban and suburban areas of Indiana, but that doesn’t necessarily mean there are more of them.

One reason for higher visibility of coyotes at this time of year is that February is their mating season. Consequently, coyotes may be more mobile and more apt to be out in the open during daylight hours.

Another factor is snow cover. The brown coat of a coyote in motion can be seen more easily against a white backdrop.

Coyotes are opportunistic feeders and are highly adaptive to their surroundings. Readily available food sources are attractive to them, and small woodlots, riparian corridors and open fields represent suitable habitat.

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources does not track population numbers on coyotes, but an annual survey in which deer hunters log wildlife sightings provides some insight. In 1992, the first year of the survey, hunters reported seeing 10 coyotes statewide per thousand hours of hunting. By 1995, the index reached 20 sightings and remained steady between 24 and 28 ever since.

Documented human-coyote conflicts are extremely rare. To reduce the chances of a conflict, the DNR and the U.S. Department of Agriculture offer the following advice:

– Do not feed coyotes;
– Do not allow pets to run free. Provide secure nighttime housing for them;
– Feed pets indoors whenever possible. Pick up leftovers if feeding outdoors and store pet and livestock feed where it’s inaccessible to wildlife;
– Eliminate water bowls and other artificial water sources whenever possible;
– Position bird feeders in a location that is less likely to attract small animals or bring the feeders indoors at night;
– Do not discard edible garbage where coyotes can get to it;
– Secure garbage containers;
– Trim and clean shrubbery at ground level to reduce hiding cover for coyotes or their prey;
– If you start seeing coyotes around your home, discourage them by shouting, making loud noises or throwing rocks, but NEVER corner a coyote – always give the coyote a free escape route.

Coyotes are wild animals protected by Indiana law, which requires the DNR to provide for the protection, care, management, survival and regulation of wild animal populations. Under that authority, the DNR establishes the methods, means and time of taking, chasing and selling wild animals.

The DNR controls the population of coyotes primarily by a regulated hunting and trapping season, which runs from Oct. 15 through March 15. A hunting or trapping license is required, unless the individual is hunting or trapping on land he/she owns. In addition, Indiana law allows landowners, or a person with written permission of a landowner, to take coyotes year-round on private property.

More information about coping with coyotes or other wildlife can be viewed by clicking on the Dealing with Nuisance Wildlife icon at www.dnr.IN.gov or by going to www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/2351.htm.

High School Sports Calendar

Thursday, Feb. 11
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Woodlan, Bluffton vs. Adams Central, 7 p.m.; IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at FW Wayne, Norwell vs. Peru, 7:30 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Woodlan at Southern Wells, postponed to Tuesday, Feb. 16; Bluffton at Leo, postponed to Tuesday, Feb. 16; Norwell at Homestead, 6:15 p.m.
BOYS SWIMMING: Adams Central at Bluffton, 5:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 12
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Wes-Del, Southern Wells vs. Lakeview Christian, 6 p.m.; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Woodlan, semifinals, 6 and 7:30 p.m.
GIRLS SWIMMING: IHSAA State Finals at Indianapolis, 6 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 13
WRESTLING: IHSAA Woodlan Semi-State Tournament at Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, Fort Wayne, 9 a.m.
GIRLS SWIMMING & DIVING: IHSAA State Finals at Indianapolis, 9 a.m.-Diving; 1 p.m.-Finals.
GIRLS BASKETBALL:
IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Wes-Del, semifinals, 6 and 7:30 p.m.; IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at FW Wayne, semifinals, 6 and 7:30 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 15
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Wes-Del, championship game, 7:30 p.m.; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Woodlan, championship, 7:30 p.m.; IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22, championship game, 7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 16
BOYS BASKETBALL: Bluffton at Leo, 6 p.m. (Freshman, 5 p.m.); Woodlan at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Norwell at South Adams, 6 p.m.

New Wildlife Diversity report available online

Indiana DNR Release:

INDIANAPOLIS – The new Wildlife Diversity Annual Report, which documents the 2009 projects of the Wildlife Diversity Section of the DNR Division of Fish and Wildlife, is available for viewing at: http://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/3347.htm

Each project was developed to help manage one or more of Indiana's native species, including Eastern box turtles, crawfish frogs, hellbenders, lake sturgeon, Allegheny woodrats (aka pack rats), redside dace (fish) and timber rattlesnakes.

The new Web publication also documents an ongoing study on the role interstate highways may serve as a potential barrier to the maintenance of genetic diversity in some wildlife species.
The WDS is responsible for the conservation and management of more than 750 species of nongame, endangered and threatened wildlife in Indiana. The WDS depends on donations from citizens to the Nongame Fund. In addition, the WDS receives reimbursements for expenditures through the State Wildlife Grants program administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The reimbursable expenditures must be used on projects involving Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) which were identified by Indiana’s Comprehensive Wildlife Strategy.

New Web site will connect forestry services

Indiana DNR Release:

Markets and marketing a product or service using Internet technology has become a mainstay of many businesses today.

Since landowners typically sell timber or seek professional forestry services once or twice in the ownership of the forest, connecting potential sellers and buyers just became easier.

The DNR Division of Forestry has developed an innovative new Web site – www.INForestryX.com – that creates a clearinghouse for forestry related commodities and services. The Web site is active now, with additional features in development.

The goals of the Web site include: facilitating trade and commerce of forest products, equipment, materials and services; improving landowner access to the forest product marketplace; and increasing the successful implementation of forest conservation projects by improving access to available conservation work in Indiana and surrounding states.

The Indiana hardwood market is the largest sector of the Indiana agricultural economy. The Indiana forest products industry has a $17 billion economic impact on the state, which has 4.7 million acres of forested lands, of which 85 percent is privately owned.

Indiana ranks first nationally in production of hardwood plywood, wood office furniture, wood kitchen cabinets, manufactured homes and wooden caskets and coffins.

High School Sports Calendar

Wednesday, Feb. 10
BOYS SWIMMING: Huntington North at Norwell, Postponed.
GIRLS DIVING: IHSAA Regional at Hamilton-Southeastern, 6 p.m. (TBA).
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Wes-Del, Southern Wells vs. Lakeview Christian, postponed, (TBA); IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Woodlan, 7 p.m., Bluffton vs. Adams Central, postponed; IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at FW Wayne, Norwell vs. Peru, postponed.

Thursday, Feb. 11
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Wes-Del, Southern Wells vs. Lakeview Christian, 6 p.m.; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Woodlan, 7 p.m., Bluffton vs. Adams Central, 7 p.m.; IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at FW Wayne, Norwell vs. Peru, 7:30 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Woodlan at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Bluffton at Leo, 6 p.m.; Norwell at Homestead, 6:15 p.m.
BOYS SWIMMING: Adams Central at Bluffton, 5:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 12
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Wes-Del, TBD; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Woodlan, 6 p.m.; IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at FW Wayne, 6 p.m.
GIRLS SWIMMING: IHSAA State Finals at Indianapolis, 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 13
WRESTLING: IHSAA Woodlan Semi-State Tournament at Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, Fort Wayne, 9 a.m.
GIRLS SWIMMING & DIVING: IHSAA State Finals at Indianapolis, 9 a.m.-Diving; 1 p.m.-Finals.
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Wes-Del, championship game; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Woodlan, rescheduled; IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at FW Wayne, championship game, 7:30 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 15
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 39 at Woodlan, championship, 7:30 p.m.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Girls’ hoops postponed again
IHSAA girls’ basketball sectional games involving the Bluffton Tigers, Norwell Knights and Southern Wells Raiders have been postponed Wednesday and rescheduled.
Bluffton’s Class 2A Sectional 38 game against Adams Central will be played at 7 p.m. Thursday at Woodlan. The semifinals will be on Friday, while the championship game slated for Saturday has been moved to Monday, Feb. 15 at 7:30 p.m.
The Knights will play Peru at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Thursday at Wayne High School in Class 3A Sectional 22.
Specific information on the Southern Wells’ game has not been received.

Campground being closed
BEDFORD, Ind. (AP) — The state Department of Natural Resources plans to close the campground at a southern Indiana fishing area.
The agency says camping won’t be allowed beginning in March at the Williams Dam Public Fishing Area along the East Fork of the White River near Bedford.
The 37-acre fishing area, fishing platform and two boat ramps will remain open without any staff members on site after June. The 30-unit campground and some associated buildings will be removed.
The agency says the Williams Dam site is the only one of its 29 fishing areas with a campground. It says the campground generated little revenue to cover its costs and needed a sanitary dumping station that could cost as much as $40,000 to build.

Casinos make haul on Super Bowl
LAS VEGAS (AP) — Gambling regulators say Nevada casinos won almost $6.9 million on this year’s Super Bowl as bettors wagered $82.7 million on the NFL title game.
The Nevada Gaming Control Board said the win was $179,000 more than sports books won last year, on $1.21 million more in bets.

Williams Dam campground to close

Indiana DNR Release:

The DNR Division of Fish & Wildlife has announced plans to phase out a small campground that is part of the Williams Dam Public Fishing Area southwest of Bedford in Lawrence County.

Camping will no longer be allowed beginning in March.

However, the 37-acre fishing area, fishing platform, and two boat ramps that provide free public access to the White River will remain open but without staff on site after June 2010. Only the 30-unit campground and a handful of buildings associated with the campground are being removed.

Williams Dam is one of 29 state-managed public fishing areas across Indiana and the only one with a campground and on-site staff. Future management will be consistent with management at other public fishing areas which involves mowing and trash pick up. Law Enforcement will continue patrolling the area.

The planned closure of the campground is based on several factors, including:

– Rising costs to operate a facility that generates little revenue;
– Staffing changes;
– Non-compliance with State Department of Health sanitary regulations.

The campground lacks a sanitary dumping station required by the State Department of Health, and installing one could cost as much as $40,000.

High School Sports Calendar

Tuesday, Feb. 9
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Wes-Del, Southern Wells vs. Lakeview Christian, Postponed to Wednesday; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Woodlan, 7 p.m., Bluffton vs. Adams Central, Postponed to Wednesday; IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at FW Wayne, Norwell vs. Peru, Postponed to Wednesday.
GIRLS DIVING: IHSAA Regional at Hamilton-Southeastern, 6 p.m.
BOYS SWIMMING: Bluffton at Huntington North, Postponed.

Wednesday, Feb. 10
BOYS SWIMMING: Huntington North at Norwell, 6 p.m.
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Wes-Del, Southern Wells vs. Lakeview Christian, 6 p.m.; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Woodlan, 7 p.m., Bluffton vs. Adams Central, 7 p.m.; IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at FW Wayne, Norwell vs. Peru, 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 11
BOYS BASKETBALL: Woodlan at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Bluffton at Leo, 6 p.m.; Norwell at Homestead, 6:15 p.m.
BOYS SWIMMING: Adams Central at Bluffton, 5:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 12
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Wes-Del, TBD; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Woodlan, TBD; IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at FW Wayne, TBD.
GIRLS SWIMMING: IHSAA State Finals at Indianapolis, 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 13
WRESTLING: IHSAA Woodlan Semi-State Tournament at Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, Fort Wayne, 9 a.m.
GIRLS SWIMMING & DIVING: IHSAA State Finals at Indianapolis, 9 a.m.-Diving; 1 p.m.-Finals.
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Wes-Del, championship game; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Woodlan, championship game, 7:30 p.m.; IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at FW Wayne, championship game, 7:30 p.m.

Bluffton vs. Heritage

Michael Vanderkolk #52 eyes the basket for a free throw.


Cody Cochran


Chandler Okey #30 shoots the 3 , Heritage Junior #11 Seth Snider can't stop him


Chandler Okey battle with Heritage #4 Wil Knapke



Keith Cochran easily wins tip over Heritage # 24 Princeton Page



These photos are provided by Bluffton High School student photographer Marci Mettler.

High School Sports Calendar

Tuesday, Feb. 9
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Wes-Del, Southern Wells vs. Lakeview Christian, 6 p.m.; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Woodlan, 7 p.m., Bluffton vs. Adams Central; IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at FW Wayne, Norwell vs. Peru, 7:30 p.m.
GIRLS DIVING: IHSAA Regional at Hamilton-Southeastern, 6 p.m.
BOYS SWIMMING: Bluffton at Huntington North, 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 10
BOYS SWIMMING: Huntington North at Norwell, 6 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 11
BOYS BASKETBALL: Woodlan at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Bluffton at Leo, 6 p.m.; Norwell at Homestead, 6:15 p.m.
BOYS SWIMMING: Adams Central at Bluffton, 5:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 12
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Wes-Del, TBD; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Woodlan, TBD; IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at FW Wayne, TBD.
GIRLS SWIMMING: IHSAA State Finals at Indianapolis, 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 13
WRESTLING: IHSAA Woodlan Semi-State Tournament at Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, Fort Wayne, 9 a.m.
GIRLS SWIMMING & DIVING: IHSAA State Finals at Indianapolis, 9 a.m.-Diving; 1 p.m.-Finals.
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Wes-Del, championship game; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Woodlan, championship game, 7:30 p.m.; IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at FW Wayne, championship game, 7:30 p.m.

NHS swimmers take sectional

News-Banner Sports Editor Paul Beitler was there when the Norwell girls swim team took the sectional championship. He shot these cool videos of the scene.



When the Norwell High School girls swimming team took the sectional championship on Saturday at Jay County High School, they tossed their coach, Jon Gates, in the pool to celebrate.

Afterward the Jay County boys swim coach, and swim meet director Barry Weaver, presented the sectional trophy to the NHS girls team.

Great job girls!

Cowboy Gathering at Salamonie Reservoir, Feb. 27

Indiana DNR Release:

Experience the allure of a western horseback ride at Salamonie Interpretive Center’s Cowboy Gathering, Feb. 27, from 5 to 8 p.m.

Watch and listen as Sara and Duane Davis present a travelogue of their Red Rock Ride, Grand Canyon and Bryce Canyon horseback trip. Then enjoy a meal with other horse enthusiasts. Sloppy-Joes and drinks will be provided, but attendees should bring a dish to pass, and their own table service.

Register by calling (260) 468-2127, or visiting the Salamonie Interpretive Center. There is no fee for this event.

For more information about this and other Upper Wabash Interpretive Services programs, visit www.in.gov/dnr/uwis/

There will be no park entrance fees at this time.

High School Sports Calendar

Friday, Feb. 5
GIRLS BASKETBALL: Southern Wells at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 6
WRESTLING: IHSAA Regional at Jay County, 8:30 a.m.
GIRLS SWIMMING: IHSAA Sectional at Jay County, Diving prelims, 9 a.m.; Finals at 1 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Southern Wells at Blue River, 6 p.m.; Heritage at Bluffton, 6 p.m. (Freshman, 5 p.m.); Columbia City at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 9
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Wes-Del, Southern Wells vs. Lakeview Christian, 6 p.m.; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Woodlan, 7 p.m., Bluffton vs. Adams Central; IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at FW Wayne, Norwell vs. Peru, 7:30 p.m.
GIRLS DIVING: IHSAA Regional, TBD.
BOYS SWIMMING: Bluffton at Huntington North, 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 10
BOYS SWIMMING: Huntington North at Norwell, 6 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 11
BOYS BASKETBALL: Woodlan at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Bluffton at Leo, 6 p.m.; Norwell at Homestead, 6:15 p.m.
BOYS SWIMMING: Adams Central at Bluffton, 5:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 12
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Wes-Del, TBD; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Woodlan, TBD; IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at FW Wayne, TBD.
GIRLS SWIMMING: IHSAA State Finals at Indianapolis, 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 13
WRESTLING: IHSAA Woodlan Semi-State Tournament at Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, Fort Wayne, 9 a.m.
GIRLS SWIMMING & DIVING: IHSAA State Finals at Indianapolis, 9 a.m.-Diving; 1 p.m.-Finals.
GIRLS BASKETBALL: IHSAA Class A Sectional 54 at Wes-Del, championship game; IHSAA Class 2A Sectional 38 at Woodlan, championship game, 7:30 p.m.; IHSAA Class 3A Sectional 22 at FW Wayne, championship game, 7:30 p.m.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Girls’ sectional tickets on sale
All-session tickets for the Class 3A girls’ basketball sectional at Wayne High School in Fort Wayne will be on sale in the Norwell athletic office Friday, Monday and Tuesday from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Ticket price is $9.

Crusaders wrestlers down Raiders
The Norwell Crusaders’ wrestling team started off the season with a 28-22 win over the host Southern Wells Raiders Thursday night. Norwell started strong winning five of the first seven matches before the Raiders made it interesting by winning the final three.

NORWELL 28, SOUTHERN WELLS 22
75: Brandt Couch (SW) dec. Nick Gordon 11 -5
85: Hunter Dillon (N) m. dec. T. C. Perry 11 -2
95: Joe Becker (N) pinned Chet Owens 2:17
100: Cody More (N) pinned Austin Osborn 1:27
105: Bailey Perkins (N) pinned Jacey Dunnuck 2:27
110: Daniel Beeks (SW) m. dec. Justin Miskin 11 - 1
115: Spencer Walden (N) pinned Brad Woodward 0:14
125: Seth Trissel (SW) dec. Tanner Moon 6 - 3
130: Blade Reinhart (SW) pinned Matt Connett 0:41
160: Jacob Stout (SW) pinned Jessie Hogsett 2:14

Junior Varsity Exhibition
75: Luke Fillers (N) pin B. Couch (SW) :22
85: T.C. Perry (SW) dec. Ziko (N) 2-0
95: Chet Owens (SW) pin Dill (N) :13
100: Austin Osborn (SW) pin Zobias (N) 1:29
105: Bailey Perkins (N) pin D. Rockwell (SW) 1:14
110: Bryce Bonewit (SW) dec. Miskin (N) 4-2 O.T.
115: Spencer Walden (N) pin E. Smith (SW) :07
130: Seth Trissel (SW) pin Roebuck (N) 2:34
135: Trevor Eicher (N) pin B. Rheinhardt (SW) :49
170: Aaron Harris (N) pin J. Stout (SW) 1:46

Norwell 7th-grade girls finish second
The Norwell 7th-grade girls’ basketball team finished second in the Northeast Hoosier Middle Level Conference tournament Monday night. The Crusaders ended their season with a 50-39 loss to Woodside.
Hanna Smith led the Crusaders with 18 points and also had four steals and three rebounds. Liara Isnogle added 11 points and three steals. Erika Thornton chipped in four points and two steals. Monica Frauhiger added four points and two rebounds. Sarah Bauermeister completed the scoring with two points.

Sw Jr. High Wrestling

Southern Wells Intern Brandon Gephart shot some video during the Jr. High wrestling match against Norwell on Thursday. Check it out:

Swimming pictures

Bluffton coach Tim Claghorn talking to Nikki Blair after she finished swimming the 200-yard freestyle.


Bluffton's Rachel Emshwiller swimming in the 500-yard freestyle.


Norwell's Kimberlee Bussey (middle) and Kirsten Bigelow (bottom) after swimming in the 100-yard backstroke.


Norwell sisters, Stephanie Bussey (left) and Kimberlee Bussey, resting after swimming in the 200-yard individual medley.


Bluffton's Deborah Verduri swimming in the 100-yard backstroke.


Norwell's Dani Thomas swimming in the 100-yard breaststroke. She was the top placer.


Bluffton's Susannah Bates swimming the breaststroke leg of the medley relay.

IHSAA Girls' Swimming

News-Banner Sports Editor Paul Beitler shot some video at the IHSAA girls' swimming and diving sectional at Jay County High School in Portland, during the opening rounds on Thursday.
The top six swimmers move on to Saturday's championship finals and the next six advance to the consolation finals.

Below you can see Norwell's Kelly Brewer swimming in the 100-yard freestyle event. She finished as the second fastest heading into Saturday.

Also, Norwell's Brooke Cossairt swimming in the 500-yard freestyle and finishing up. waiting to start next in the 500 is Bluffton freshman Rachel Emshwiller, who earlier set a meet record in the 200-yard freestyle and took the top seed for the event Saturday. She went on to break the 500 free meet record, too.

In the final video, Emshwiller is finishing up the 500.

High School Sports Calendar

Thursday, Feb. 4
GIRLS SWIMMING: IHSAA Sectional at Jay County, 5:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 5
GIRLS BASKETBALL: Southern Wells at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 6
WRESTLING: IHSAA Regional at Jay County, 8:30 a.m.
GIRLS SWIMMING: IHSAA Sectional at Jay County, Diving prelims, 9 a.m.; Finals at 1 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Southern Wells at Blue River, 6 p.m.; Heritage at Bluffton, 6 p.m. (Freshman, 5 p.m.); Columbia City at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Girls’ sectional tickets on sale
All-session tickets for the Class 3A girls’ basketball sectional at Wayne High School in Fort Wayne will be on sale in the Norwell athletic office Friday, Monday and Tuesday from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Ticket price is $9.

Yorktown
matmen advance
Yorktown defeated Whitko 45-19 to capture the IHSAA team wrestling regional championship at Adams Central on Wednesday night.
Yorktown knocked out Bellmont 30-24 in the first round, while Whitko eliminated Homestead 39-27.

Fiechter signs with Greyhounds

Norwell High School football player Klay Fiechter made it official this week. On signing Day he completed the ceremony making himself a future player for the University of Indianapolis, Greyhounds.
Way to go Klay!





Front Row: Kevin Fiechter (father), Klay Fiechter, Kim Fiechter (mother)
Back row: Jeff Miller (football coach)

Where eagles dare--we follow

Scott Elzey posed this interesting question, complete with example photos:

Today’s test: Eagle or heron nests?








Juvenile bald eagle (above) Heron nest (below)





ANSWER:  Heron…because there is more than one.

Indiana Master Naturalist Class at Salamonie

Indiana DNR Release:

If you would like to learn more about the natural world of Indiana, Upper Wabash Interpretive Services is holding an Indiana Master Naturalist class at the Salamonie Reservoir Interpretive Center, March 18 through May 13. Classes take place Thursday evenings from 6 to 9:15 p.m.

The Indiana Master Naturalist Program (IMNP) is a program developed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and Purdue University Extension to provide education about Indiana’s plants, water, soils and wildlife, and to promote volunteer service in local communities.

The class costs $65, and is limited to 30 students. Participants must register by Feb. 26. For a registration form, or to learn more about the program, contact the Upper Wabash Interpretive Services at (260) 468-2127, Ed Farris of the Huntington County Purdue Extension Office at (260) 358-4826 or Jody Heaston, program coordinator at jheaston@dnr.in.gov.

Park entrance fees will be waived for class participants.

Bluffton Basketball

BHS student Marci Mettler sent us some great shots from Tuesday night's Bluffton High School basketball game:

Bluffton Keith Cochran #50 looks to shoot
Bluffton Michael Vanderkolk #52 shoots the jumper
Bluffton mini cheer camp performs their chants and a dance at half time
Bluffton Keith Cochran #50 shoots over Wabash's #30 Jack Holley


Look for Marci's pictures in today's News-Banner, too.

(Thanks Marci! Keep the great pictures coming!)

High School Sports Calendar

Tuesday, Feb. 2
BOYS SWIMMING: Norwell at Blackford, 6 p.m.
GIRLS BASKETBALL: Norwell at Adams Central, 6 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Wabash at Bluffton, 6 p.m.; Southern Wells at Southwood, 6:15 p.m.; Heritage at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 3
BOYS SWIMMING: Oak Hill at Bluffton, 5:30 p.m.
GIRLS BASKETBALL: FW Canterbury at Bluffton, 6 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 4
GIRLS SWIMMING: IHSAA Sectional at Jay County, 5:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 5
GIRLS BASKETBALL: Southern Wells at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 6
WRESTLING: IHSAA Regional at Jay County, 8:30 a.m.
GIRLS SWIMMING: IHSAA Sectional at Jay County, Diving prelims, 9 a.m.; Finals at 1 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Southern Wells at Blue River, 6 p.m.; Heritage at Bluffton, 6 p.m. (Freshman, 5 p.m.); Columbia City at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

8th-grade Tigers win ACAC tourney
The Bluffton 8th-grade boys’ basketball team defeated Leo 48-39 on Saturday at Southern Wells to win the Allen County Athletic Conference middle school tournament championship.
The Tigers (16-4) were led by Mike Pearson with 19 points. Jake Garrett and Josh Streveler each added 11 points. Austin Brigner netted five points and Kaben Kinsey two.
In the 7th-grade championship game, the Bluffton 7th-graders lost 48-22 to Leo.
Kevin Moser tallied eight points to lead the Tigers (11-7), followed by Noah Antrim with six, Josh Moriarity four, Kohl Buskirk three and James Spera one.

8th-grade Crusader girls place second
The Norwell Crusaders’ 8th-grade girls’ basketball team lost to DeKalb 37-30 on Monday night in the Northeast Hoosier Middle Level Conference championship game at Norwell.
Olivia Geiger led the Crusaders with 16 points. Laken Chaney added five points, Kendall Beckstein three, Brittany Barger two, Kelsey Beer two and Kylee Byerly two.

Tri-Star Basketball Contest scheduled
The Bluffton Optimist Club Tri-Star Basketball Contest for all Wells County boys and girls, ages 8-13 (as of March 15), is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 6, in the Bluffton City Gym, 128 E. Market St. Registration and warm up begins at 3:30 p.m. and the contest starts at 4 p.m. Sign-up forms will be at the door. First-place finishers advance to regional competition to be announced. For more information call Larry Tschannen at 824-4713 or Doug Cale at 824-5650.

USF, SA to honor Meyer
The University of Saint Francis women’s basketball team and South Adams athletic department will pay tribute to the memory of Amy Meyer and her accomplishments.
South Adams will recognize its former student-athlete on Friday, Feb. 5, during halftime of the varsity girls’ basketball game with Bellmont.
Saint Francis will honor Meyer before its home basketball game with Goshen on Saturday, Feb. 6, at 12:40 p.m., according to Cougar coach Gary Andrews. Andrews, who coached White during her collegiate career at Saint Francis, will speak about White during a pregame ceremony with her family.

Umpire registration taking place
The Fort Wayne Umpires Association is currently registering umpires for the 2010 season. The biggest need is for experienced umpires, who are licensed with the Indiana High School Athletic Association, but opportunities are available for umpires of all experience levels. Umpires, who register by the March 5 deadline, may have the opportunity to be a part of high school baseball and/or fastpitch during the 2010 season and receive remuneration for their work.
Please contact Mark Stultz to receive information about registering with the Fort Wayne Umpires Association, call 260-387-5210 or e-mail at mark_stultz@comcast.net.

HUNTINGTON-WELLS OTTERS SWIM TEAM

The Huntington-Wells Otters participated in the Fort Wayne Aquatics Winter Classic held at the Helen P. Brown Natatorium January 22-24, 2010 in Fort Wayne, IN. What follows are results of the team’s top placing swimmers and relays. (Relays were comprised of swimmers from the Otter’s PRO partnership with Penn and Wawasee.)

RELAY RESULTS: (For Otters participating in top 5 relays)
9-10 year-old males:
200 yard freestyle relay 2:11.24 Walker Copeland, Corbin Cozad, and 2
4th place PRO teammates
200 yard medley relay 2:29.68 same foursome
4th place
11-12 year-old males:
200 yard freestyle relay 1:56.23 Duke Wang and 3 PRO teammates
5th place
200 yard medley relay 2:06.51 Duke Wang, Walter Hacker, Logan Ackley
3rd place and one PRO teammate
13-14 year-old females:
200 yard freestyle relay 1:47.65 Cassy Lange and 3 PRO teammates
3rd place
13-14 year-old males
200 yard medley relay 2:04.01 Cole Ackley and 3 PRO teammates
5th place

INDIVIDUAL EVENT RESULTS: (For Otters placing in the top 16)
8 & under males:
Joe Alleman 12th place 25 yard butterfly 24.98

9-10 year-old males:
Corbin Cozad 7th place 50 yard butterfly 35.60

11-12 year-old males:
Logan Ackley 8th place 50 yard butterfly 31.46
10th place 200 yard IM 2:31.89
11th place 200 yard freestyle 2:15.00

Walter Hacker 5th place 50 yard butterfly 30.46
7th place 100 yard backstroke 1:09.60
12th place 200 yard freestyle 2:15.59
16th place 500 yard freestyle 6:06.57




Duke Wang 3rd place 50 yard freestyle 27.10
3rd place 100 yard butterfly 1:07.97
4th place 50 yard butterfly 30.43
4th place 100 yard backstroke 1:07.81
5th place 200 yard freestyle 2:10.35
6th place 500 yard freestyle 5:43.23

13-14 year-old males:
Cole Ackley 10th place 100 yard breaststroke 1:21.76

15 & over females:
Logan Brink 2nd place 100 yard butterfly 1:01.20
3rd place 100 yard freestyle 54.24
6th place 100 yard backstroke 1:04.82

Cassie Hacker 5th place 100 yard breaststroke 1:14.83
7th place 50 yard freestyle 27.03
10th place 200 yard freestyle 2:10.97

Erin Hipskind 12th place 200 yard breaststroke 2:52.37
14th place 100 yard freestyle 58.73

The Otters will compete next in the Three Rivers Aquatics Club’s Polar Bear Plunge, February 13-14, 2010 at the Helen P. Brown Natatorium at Southside High School, Ft. Wayne, IN.

Eagle activities at Raccoon and Turkey Run, Feb. 5-7

Indiana DNR Release:

Turkey Run State Park and Raccoon State Recreation Area are teaming up to offer a weekend of bald eagle activities, Feb. 5-7.

Road trips to eagle roosting and nesting sites, seminars on owls and raptors, presentations on birding, along with plenty of time to socialize with fellow birding enthusiasts will highlight the weekend.

Turkey Run Inn, located inside Turkey Run State Park, will serve as base camp for the weekend-long event.

The Wabash Valley Chapter of the Audubon Society will distribute disposable bird feeders on Saturday to attendees.

There is a program fee of $20 per adult and $15 per child, ages 4-12. Children ages 3 and younger will be admitted free of charge. The fee increase from last year covers the cost of the entire event, including the bus tours.

For more information call: (765) 344-1412 or (765) 597-2654, or visit http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/files/sp-EagleWeekend.pdf.

Standard weekend park entrance fees of $5 for in-state vehicles and $7 for out-of-state vehicles will apply.

High School Sports Calendar

Monday, Feb. 1
GIRLS BASKETBALL: Southern Wells at FW Blackhawk Christian, 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 2
BOYS SWIMMING: Norwell at Blackford, 6 p.m.
GIRLS BASKETBALL: Norwell at Adams Central, 6 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Wabash at Bluffton, 6 p.m.; Southern Wells at Southwood, 6:15 p.m.; Heritage at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 3
BOYS SWIMMING: Oak Hill at Bluffton, 5:30 p.m.
GIRLS BASKETBALL: FW Canterbury at Bluffton, 6 p.m.

Thursday, Feb. 4
GIRLS SWIMMING: IHSAA Sectional at Jay County, 5:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 5
GIRLS BASKETBALL: Southern Wells at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 6
WRESTLING: IHSAA Regional at Jay County, 8:30 a.m.
GIRLS SWIMMING: IHSAA Sectional at Jay County, Diving prelims, 9 a.m.; Finals at 1 p.m.
BOYS BASKETBALL: Southern Wells at Blue River, 6 p.m.; Heritage at Bluffton, 6 p.m. (Freshman, 5 p.m.); Columbia City at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.

Boys Basketball game

Marci Mettler, Bluffton high School, sent these great shots from the recent Bluffton Boys' Basketball game:

Michael Vanderkolk #52, arms raised high again, Michael Vanderkolk #52; Cody Cochran #34 shooting and Mark Bowman #24 shooting


Keep 'em coming Marci!