Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Norwell netters beat Snider
The Norwell boys’ tennis team upped its season record to 6-0 Monday with a 4-1 victory over the Snider Panthers at Fort Wayne.
In the junior varsity matches, Norwell won 5-3 to improve its record to 5-1.
NORWELL 4, SNIDER 1
At Fort Wayne
VARSITY SINGLES: Reid Imel (N) d. Andy Jones 6-3, 7-5; Kyle Fillman (N) d. Paul Brumbaugh 6-2, 4-6, 6-4; Ross Mathews (N) d. Cole Douglas 3-6, 6-3, 6-0.
VARSITY DOUBLES: Matt Musick/Ryan Cooley (S) d. Kyle Isch/Tanner Mathews (N) 6-3, 6-3; Tanner Bowen/Brandon Taylor (N) d. Landin Baron/Matt Golm 6-3, 6-4.
NORWELL 5, SNIDER 3
JUNIOR VARSITY SINGLES: Mitchell Wilson (N) d. LJ Reeve 8-5; Dan Doell (S) d. Jake Price 8-7 (7-1); Tyler Smith (N) d. Taylor Hansen 8-2; Tyler Davis (S) d. Damon Gerber 8-6; Sam Martinez (S) d. Drew Shively 8-5; Jordan Dickey (N) d. Zach Dunbar 8-6.
JUNIOR VARSITY DOUBLES: Wilson/Smith (N) d. Craig Violett/Greg Shoda 6-0; Price/Gerber (N) d. Marcus McDaniel/Daqavise Winston 6-3.

South Side blanks Bluffton netmen
The South Side Archers defeated the Bluffton Tigers 5-0 in boys’ varsity tennis Monday afternoon at Fort Wayne.

The junior varsity teams tied 4-4.
SOUTH SIDE 5, BLUFFTON 0
At Fort Wayne
VARSITY SINGLES: Antonio Gooden (SS) def. Damon Kuhlenbeck 6-1, 6-7 (4-7), 6-3; Alex Graham (SS) def. Jackson Bates 6-2, 6-4; Tyler Staton (SS) def. Zach Mezera 6-0, 6-1.
VARSITY DOUBLES: Sean White/Andy Fenstermacher (SS) def. Chandler Okey/Michael Vanderkolk 7-5, 4-6, 6-2; Adam Miller/Evan VanSumeren (SS) def. Alex Penrod/Brendan Baumgartner 6-4, 7-5.
BLUFFTON 4, SOUTH SIDE 4
JUNIOR VARSITY SINGLES: John Dukarski (SS) def. Jake Garrett 6-4; Trey Mettler (B) def. Logan Landon 7-5; Noah Allison (SS) def. Got Jutarmontree 6-1; Rory Lewis (SS) def. Alex Miller 6-2
JUNIOR VARSITY DOUBLES: Luke Bertsch/Josh Buckland (B) def. Reed Brown/Nate Thomas 7-5; Jacob Antrim/Carson Addington (B) def. Thomas Sheppard/Tyler Salway 6-4; Nathaniel Clark/Jackson Lambert (B) def. John Dukarski/Erin Schimmels 7-5; Logan Landon/Noah Allison (SS) def. Keith Cochran/Matt Dann 6-0.

Canterbury tops Norwell golfers
Abby Berq shot a one-over-par 38 on the back nine at Timber Ridge Golf Club in Bluffton to lead the Canterbury girls’ golf team to a 179-193 victory over the Norwell Knights on Monday.
Her teammate, Sarah Dusman, shot a 43. Helen Loy added a 48 for the Cavaliers and Caitlin Sullivan finished with a 50. Arrie Hill wrapped up Canterbury’s varsity squad with a 58.
Megan Evans led Norwell with a 41, while Cassie Herndon shot a 47. Kristen Springer finished with a 50 and Hannah Porrata added a 55. Bailey Nodine shot a 58.
For the Norwell junior varsity team, Kristine Morgan shot a 54 and Kailey Thiele recorded a 55.

Otters looking for swimmers
The Huntington-Wells Otters will be holding tryouts for new members Tuesday, Sept. 7 at the Parkview Huntington Family YMCA pool from 5-6:30 p.m. New swimmers may take advantage of a two-week trial before making any commitment to the team.
Membership is open to youth, ages 4 – 18, who are able to swim one to two lengths of a 25-yard pool unassisted. Training and instruction of the various strokes will be led by a qualified coaching staff under the direction of head coach Don Cozad. Middle school and high school swimmers are encouraged to participate to prepare for their respective school seasons.
The Otters are affiliated with USA Swimming — the organization responsible for fielding U.S. National and Olympic teams.
For more information, please contact Cozad at 260-356-4200 or see the Otters’ website at www.otterswim.org.

Reminder for Bluffton spectators
Bluffton High School athletic fans and spectators will be required to park in the large parking lot on the northeast side the school. All people attending volleyball, girls’ basketball and wrestling events should enter through Door 5.

High School Sports Calendar

Tuesday, Aug. 31
GIRLS GOLF: DeKalb at Norwell, 4 p.m.
BOYS TENNIS: Manchester at Bluffton, 4:30 p.m.; Huntington North at Norwell, 4:30 p.m.
CROSS COUNTRY: Southern Wells, Adams Central, Bluffton, Eastbrook, Mississinewa at Blackford, 5 p.m.; Norwell at Bellmont Conditioner, 5 p.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: Norwell at Bellmont, 5 p.m.
BOYS SOCCER: Bellmont at Norwell, 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Southwood at Bluffton, 6 p.m.; Harding at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; FW Wayne at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.
———
Thursday, Sept. 2
BOYS TENNIS: FW Blackhawk Christian at Bluffton, 5 p.m.; Columbia City at Norwell, 4:30 p.m.
GIRLS GOLF: Southern Wells, South Adams at Leo, 4:30 p.m.
BOYS SOCCER: Norwell at Jay County, 5 p.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: Jay County at Norwell (Varsity only), 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Southern Wells at Northfield, 5:30 p.m.; Norwell at South Adams, 5 p.m. (9th), 6 p.m. (JV/V).
———
Friday, Sept. 3
FOOTBALL: Bluffton at South Adams, 7 p.m.; Southern Wells at Garrett, 7 p.m.; Carroll at Norwell, 7 p.m.

Get off-road, free, at Hoosier Outdoor Experience, Sept. 18-19

Indiana DNR Release:

However you like to get off-road—and especially if you don’t know enough to have a preference—you’ll find options to try at the free Hoosier Outdoor Experience.

The event is Sept. 18-19, at Fort Harrison State Park in Indianapolis.

During last year’s inaugural Experience, 13,300 children and adults got hands-on opportunities to try more than 50 outdoor activities. Many took participants “off-road” for the first time.

Off-roading this year includes a mountain bike skills trail, UTV riding, rock climbing, hiking, Jeep/ORV rides, even mini dirt bike rides for tots, plus information and staff from the DNR’s Redbird State Recreation Area, an off-roader’s playground.

“Off-roading is a year-round recreational activity that can be done as an individual and/or family depending on the skill level of the operator and type of off-road machine used,” said Nila Armstrong of the DNR Division of Outdoor Recreation. “People return from these rides with smiles on their face.”

Eastgate Chrysler Jeep is the presenting sponsor of the OHV riding area.

The Experience has old-school off-roading, too. On horseback. Free, of course.

Rides of a mile-and-half will be offered, first-come, first-served starting at 9 a.m. each day with the last ride leaving at 5 p.m. Horses suitable for beginners will be available to suit ages 6 to adult.

“These horses need to be calm to be in a state park,” said Tim Hollars, saddle barn owner, manager and operator at the park, explaining why even people with no prior experience can ride.

Hollars said riders should go to the saddle barn early to reserve a spot because they will fill up fast.

Then there’s hiking. Of course you can walk just about anywhere, anytime, but at this event you can learn about backcountry hiking and caving, complete with an inflatable cave. A climbing wall will be available for the vertically minded.

Other activities at this family-friendly event include target shooting, archery, kayaking, fishing and much more. Activities will be organized in six areas—aquatics, cultural, equestrian, outdoors, shooting sports and wildlife. Shuttles will transport participants.

The event runs from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. Parking, admission, activities, demonstrations and seminars are free to the public, but advance registration at hoosieroutdoorexperience.IN.gov (click on the orange registration icon) helps assure proper staffing. Watch for event updates at the registration website or at Facebook.com/HoosierOutdoorExperience.

The Hoosier Outdoor Experience is presented by the DNR and the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation. The goal is to introduce people to outdoor activities they may have never tried.

If you already enjoy outdoor sports and recreation and want to help others learn to enjoy them as much as you do, sign up to volunteer at http://www.in.gov/dnr/5412.htm or call (317) 233-1002.

Archery and Traditional Archery Shoot at Raccoon SRA, Sept. 11

Indiana DNR Release:

An introduction to archery program and a traditional archery competition will be held at Raccoon State Recreation Area on Sept. 11.

The third annual event will take place at Raccoon’s archery trail. The competition is open only to Long Bow/Recurve archers and is limited to the first 15 registrants. Advance registration by Sept. 10 is recommended by calling (765) 344-1412.

The schedule:

10 a.m. Introduction to Archery – Meet at the archery trail, located just west of the entrance gate. This event is focused on introducing youth to archery but is open to all ages. Learn about the history of archery and get acquainted with the equipment. Participation limited to first 15 registrants. If the event is not full, the first 15 to arrive.

12:30–1 p.m. Traditional Archery Shoot Sign-IN – Meet at the archery range to sign in for the competition.

1p.m., 3rd Annual Traditional Archery Shoot – Open only to traditional (Long Bow or Recurve) archers of all ages. Participants provide own equipment. The course will follow the existing archery trail and consist of 3D and standard targets. Arrows must have field points, no broadheads or blunts.

The programs are free but standard entrance fees of $5 for in-state vehicles and $7 for out-of-state vehicles will be charged. For more information call (765) 344-1412.

Raccoon SRA is on U.S. Hwy. 36 in Parke County in west central Indiana, 50 miles west of Indianapolis and 35 miles northeast of Terre Haute.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Sign up for Parlor City Trot races
Runners may register for the 36th Parlor City Trot presented by Bluffton Regional Medical Center. Race date is Saturday, Sept. 4. Starting time is 7:30 a.m. Participants may choose between three events: a half-marathon (13.1 miles), a 10-mile run or a 10-kilometer run.
Registration may be completed on-line at runrace.net or forms may be picked up at FPC and YMCA in Bluffton for mail-in registration. Any questions may be addressed to Mac at 260-450-1071 or e-mail at macmcavoy@gmail.com.

Labor Day weekend golf scramble, cookout at Timber Ridge
Timber Ridge Golf Club will be hosting a Florida Scramble on Sunday, Sept. 5. Starting time is 1 p.m. with a shotgun start. Cost is $30 per person, which includes green fee, cart for 18 holes, entry fee and cookout. Couples welcome. Sign-up in pro shop or call 824-2728.

Golf scramble for
Norwell Baseball Club
The Norwell Baseball Club is taking registrations for the 19th Turf’s Up golf scramble on Sept. 25 at Timber Ridge Golf Club in Bluffton. Limited space is available and entry fee is $65. Entry deadline is Sept. 17. The shotgun start is set for 1 p.m. Registration begins at 12:15 p.m. Contact Kurt Gray for more details or registration at 260-414-5458 or 744-4387 or e-mail at norwellbaseball@frontier.com.

High School Sports Calendar

Monday, Aug. 30
BOYS TENNIS: Bluffton at FW South Side, 4:15 p.m.; Norwell at FW Snider, 5 p.m.
GIRLS GOLF: Mississinewa, Southwood vs. Southern Wells, 4:30 p.m.; FW Canterbury at Norwell, 4 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Southern Wells at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.
———
Tuesday, Aug. 31
GIRLS GOLF: DeKalb at Norwell, 4 p.m.
BOYS TENNIS: Manchester at Bluffton, 4:30 p.m.; Huntington North at Norwell, 4:30 p.m.
CROSS COUNTRY: Southern Wells, Adams Central, Bluffton, Eastbrook, Mississinewa at Blackford, 5 p.m.; Norwell at Bellmont Conditioner, 5 p.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: Norwell at Bellmont, 5 p.m.
BOYS SOCCER: Bellmont at Norwell, 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Southwood at Bluffton, 6 p.m.; Harding at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; FW Wayne at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.
———
Thursday, Sept. 2
BOYS TENNIS: FW Blackhawk Christian at Bluffton, 5 p.m.; Columbia City at Norwell, 4:30 p.m.
GIRLS GOLF: Southern Wells, South Adams at Leo, 4:30 p.m.
BOYS SOCCER: Norwell at Jay County, 5 p.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: Jay County at Norwell (Varsity only), 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Southern Wells at Northfield, 5:30 p.m.; Norwell at South Adams, 5 p.m. (9th), 6 p.m. (JV/V).

NHS defeats Heritage

News-Banner Editor Glen Werling was there Friday when Norwell High School Defeated Heritage, 35-0. Not bad for a home opener.

Bi-County races at Bluffton High School

Indiana Young Birders host hike at Salamonie, Sept. 5

Indiana DNR Release:

Head out to the Salamonie Interpretive/ Nature Center on Sept. 5 to take a hike and search for different species of birds one can find on trails near the center.

A birder from the Indiana Audubon Society, Inc., will lend an experienced hand to the search, which starts at 10 a.m. Binoculars will be available for those who don’t have any.

After meeting back at the nature center and tallying the bird count, the group will have a drawing to determine which young birder will win a Kaufman Guide to Birds of North America.

There is no charge for the event. The center is in Lost Bridge West Recreation Area, Highway 105, western Huntington County. The center and gift shop’s hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. This building features exhibits, floor-to-ceiling windows in the wildlife viewing area, and staff to answer questions.

The standard gate fee ($5 per in-state car; $7 per car with out-of-state license plates) will be in effect when the gatehouse is open. Call (260) 468-2127 or see dnr.IN.gov/uwis for more information.

Breakfast at Salamonie Nature Center

Indiana DNR Release:

A fundraiser pancake breakfast will take place at the Salamonie Nature Center on Sept. 14, from 8 to 10 a.m., to support projects and events put on by Upper Wabash Interpretive Services.

The event is being staged by The Friends of the Upper Wabash Interpretive Services group, which is raising funds to build a bird-of-prey raptor center at Salamonie Reservoir and seeking new members.

After enjoying a great breakfast of biscuits and gravy, pancakes and sausage for a $5 donation, visit the center and gift shop, which is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The building features exhibits, floor-to-ceiling windows in the wildlife viewing area and staff to answer questions.

The center is in Lost Bridge West Recreation Area, Highway 105, western Huntington County.

The standard gate fee ($5 per in-state car; $7 per car for out-of-state license plates) will be in effect when the gatehouse is open. Call (260) 468-2127 or see www.dnr.IN.gov/uwis for more.

High School Sports Calendar

Wednesday, Aug. 25
GIRLS GOLF: Blackford at Norwell, 4:30 p.m.
BOYS TENNIS: Norwell at South Adams, 5 p.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: Carroll at Norwell, 5 p.m.
———
Thursday, Aug. 26
GIRLS GOLF: Delta at Southern Wells, 4:30 p.m.; Norwell at East Noble, 4 p.m.
BOYS TENNIS: Norwell at Adams Central, 4:15 p.m.
BOYS SOCCER: Norwell at Carroll, 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Bluffton at Churubusco, 6 p.m.; Mississinewa at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Woodlan at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.
———
Friday, Aug. 27
FOOTBALL: Bluffton at Manchester, 7 p.m.; Southern Wells at Wabash, 7 p.m.; Heritage at Norwell, 7 p.m.
———
Saturday, Aug. 28
CROSS COUNTRY: Southern Wells, Norwell at Bluffton Invitational, 9 a.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Southern Wells at Taylor Invitational, 9 a.m.; Norwell at Prairie Heights Tournament, 9 a.m.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Knights sweep through South Side
The Norwell Knights upped their boys’ tennis team record to 3-0 Tuesday with a 5-0 victory over visiting Fort Wayne South Side.
Reid Imel, Kyle Isch and Tanner Bowen were singles winners for the Knights.
Kyle Fillman and Ross Mathews easily won their No. 1 doubles match, while Tanner Mathews and Mitchell Wilson were winners in the No. 2 doubles contest.
Norwell won the junior varsity match 3-2 to also improve to 3-0.

NORWELL 5, FORT WAYNE SOUTH SIDE 0
VARSITY SINGLES: Reid Imel (N) d. Antonio Gooden, 6-2, 6-0; Kyle Isch (N) d. Alex Graham 6-3, 6-7 (2-7), 6-3; Tanner Bowen (N) d. Tyler Staton 6-0, 4-6, 6-3.
VARSITY DOUBLES: Ross Mathews/Kyle Fillman (N) d. Sean White/Adam Miller 6-1, 6-0; Tanner Mathews/Mitchell Wilson (N) d. Ean VanSumeren/Andy Fenstermacher 6-3, 6-4.
NORWELL 3, SOUTH SIDE 2
JV SINGLES: Brandon Taylor (N) d. John Dukarski 8-2; Logan Landon (SS) d. Damon Gerber 8-4; Nate Thomas (SS) d. Jordan Dickey 8-5.
JV DOUBLES: Tyler Smith/Jake Price (N) d. Reed Brown/Thomas Sheppard 8-6; Drew Shively/Dickey (N) d. Tyler Salway/Erin Schimmels 8-2.
Huntington North nips Tigers
Huntington North edged the Bluffton Tigers 3-2 in boys’ varsity tennis on Tuesday afternoon at Huntington.
The Vikings’ junior varsity squad topped the Tigers 5-4.

HUNTINGTON NORTH 3, BLUFFTON 2
VARSITY SINGLES: Phil Truitt (H) def. Damon Kuhlenbeck 6-4, 6-3; Jackson Bates (B) def. Keith Stambaugh 6-0, 6-2; Ben North (H) def. Zach Mezera 6-2, 6-3.
VARSITY DOUBLES: Neal Hamilton/Luke Hoffman (H) def. Chandler Okey/Michael Vanderkolk 4-6, 6-1, 7-6 (7-4); Alex Penrod/Brendan Baumgartner (B) def. Stephen Reich/Ethan Hethcote 6-7 (6-8), 6-3, 6-2.
HUNTINGTON NORTH 5, BLUFFTON 4
JV SINGLES: Jake Garrett (B) def. Tyler Bracht 8-2; Josh North (H) def. Dillon Myers 9-7; Cameron Buzzard (H) def. Carson Addington 8-5; Aaron Gilmore (H) def. Matt Dann 8-1; Buzzard (H) def. Alex Miller 8-1.
JV DOUBLES: Jeremy Rice/Josh Pinney (H) def. Luke Bertsch/Josh Buckland 8-5; Austin Okey/Jackson Lambert (B) def. Tom Bolinger/Jacob Klingaman 9-7; Jacob Antrim/Stephen Vanderkolk (B) def. Wyatt Nave/Tyler Bracht 8-4; Nathaniel Clark/Trey Mettler (B) def. Andrew Smith/Matt Sieberns 9-7.

Bluffton spikers conquer Blackford
The Bluffton Tigers defeated Blackford 3-0 in girls’ volleyball Tuesday night at Hartford City.
Maggie Garrett led the Tigers with eight kills as they won the three games 25-23, 25-12, 26-24. Garrett also had 10 digs and two assists.
Kara Fiechter had five kills, 12 assists, seven aces and seven digs. Natasha Patterson, Felicia Prible and Shelby Taylor each had four kills. Patterson also had six digs, Prible four and Taylor two. Gina Eisenhut had two kills and five digs. Hannah Gilliam had four assists and Megan Evans had three digs. The Tigers are 2-5.

Norwell girls outplay Bulldogs
The Norwell girls’ golf team downed the visiting New Haven Bulldogs Tuesday at Timber Ridge Golf Club in Bluffton.
Sophomore Megan Evans led the Knights with a three-over-par 39 on the front nine. Evans birdied the second hole and shot par on holes 1, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 9. She double bogeyed 8 and bogeyed 7.
Kristen Springer added a 44. Hannah Porrata shot a 46. Cassie Herndon added a 48 to complete the Knights’ team score of 177. Kelsey Beer finished with a 49 to round out the varsity action.
New Haven was led by Matraca Fritcha with a 46. Destiney Beard and Cory Thompson each shot a 49, while Stephanie Fox added a 50 for a 194 team total.
Norwell won the junior varsity match 226-248. Bailey Nodine led the Knights with a 53. Kristine Morgan carded a 55 and Kailey Thiele a 58. Maggie Lazzell shot a 60.

Raider girls’ run to victory
The Southern Wells girls’ varsity cross country runners cruised past the Southwood Knights and White’s Warriors Tuesday afternoon at Wabash.
Southern Wells had the only team with five runners and easily won. Sam Rhodes led the Raiders, finishing the 5,000-meter course in 22:45. Southwood’s Lisa Schmalzried was second in 23:27. Ivy Maddox was third for the Raiders in 23:42, followed by Josie Rhodes in 25:22, Carissa Carter in 25:57 and Kaylie McCammon in 26:45.
In the boys’ 5K race, Southwood beat the Raiders 20-39. White’s had only three runners.
Southwood was led by Chandler Saalfrank, who finished in 18:49. The Knights’ Johnny Mendez and the Raiders’ Clay Hamilton each finished in 19:15, but Mendez was awarded second and Hamilton third.
Devin Dale was fourth for Southwood in 19:44 and the Raiders’ Taylor Thompson was fifth in 19:46.
Kyle Penrod was ninth for the Raiders in 21:17, followed by Matt Taylor in 10th in 21:40. Lance Oswalt was 12th in 22:10, Joe Biddle 14th in 23:14, Josh Markley 15th in 23:45 and Zach Green 16th in 24:50.

Raider Jr. High girls split in CC meet
The Southern Wells Junior High School girls’ cross country team split a three-way meet Tuesday against Southwood and White’s on Tuesday at Wabash.
The Raiders were edged by Southwood 27-28, while White’s did not have a complete team.
In the boys’ meet, neither school had a complete team of five runners.
The Southern Wells’ girls were led by second-place finisher Sam Ramseyer. The other Raider finishers were: 4. Meghan Yencer; 6. Chloe Maddox; 7. Autumn Stevens; 9. Timber Tucker; 11. Shelby Skidmore; 12. Chloe Elam; 13. Brooke Penrod; 14. Jordan Sills; 16. Tori Wiese; 17. Kennedy Rhodes.
In the boys’ race, Southern Wells’ Paul Renner was the first finisher, followed by Wyatt Maddox in second place. Nick Childers was sixth and Ian Klowetter seventh.

Gilliom, Ehrsam lead senior golfers
Bob Gilliom and Richard Ehrsam were the top individual golfers for the Tuesday Senior Golf League at Green Valley Golf Club in Bluffton.
Gilliom had the low gross score of 39 and Ehrsam had the low net score of 31.
Gilliom, Ehrsam also were on the winning team with Bill Fuller and Larry Claghorn. Ehrsam also had the longest putt and Fuller was closest to the pin.

Now for the whole-family DNR Experience, Sept. 18-19

Indiana DNR Release:

Ready for the main course?

The State Fair was but an appetizer of free fun from the Department of Natural Resources.

It’s time to shift attention slightly north to the second annual Hoosier Outdoor Experience at Indianapolis’ Fort Harrison State Park, Sept. 18-19.

During last year’s inaugural Hoosier Outdoor Experience, 13,300 children and adults enjoyed trying more than 50 outdoor activities. These included various types of fishing.

Perhaps you watched your children or others fish at the DNR Fishin’ Pond at the fair. Perhaps you were one of the lucky adults who fished the pond with your child. In 24 days, it’ll be time for both children and adults to learn about—and try—different kinds of fishing. Free.

Even if you’re a veteran angler, you may not have tried some of these methods. Ever wanted to learn to fish with a bow and arrow? You can. Ever wanted to fly fish? You can. You can also learn about fly tying and how to successfully fish in Indiana from experts.

“If you ever wanted to learn about basic fishing, fly fishing or even bowfishing but weren’t sure how to get started, here’s your chance,” said Bill James, DNR’s chief of fisheries.

For bowfishing at the event, floating fish targets will be provided to add realism. Experienced volunteers will coach participants and ensure safety.

“If you’re looking for a unique hands-on experience at the Hoosier Outdoor Experience, be sure to stop by the bowfishing venue,” James said. “You might find you have a hidden talent that would make Robin Hood jealous.”

The Hoosier Outdoor Experience, which runs 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day, is presented by the DNR and the Indiana Natural Resources Foundation. The goal is to introduce people to outdoor activities they may have never tried.

Fishing is just one of many free Outdoor Experiences at this family-friendly event. Others include hands-on target shooting, archery, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing and much more.

Activities will be organized in six stations—aquatics, cultural, equestrian, outdoors, shooting sports and wildlife. Shuttles will take participants from station to station.

Parking, admission, activities, demonstrations and seminars at the Hoosier Outdoor Experience are free to the public. Online advance registration is requested to assist with staffing and planning. To register, go to hoosieroutdoorexperience.IN.gov and click on the orange registration icon. Watch for event updates there or on Facebook at Facebook.com/HoosierOutdoorExperience.

If you already enjoy outdoor sports and recreation and want to help others learn to enjoy them as much as you do, sign up to volunteer at http://www.in.gov/dnr/5412.htm.

High School Sports Calendar

Tuesday, Aug. 24
BOYS TENNIS: Bluffton at Huntington North, 4:30 p.m.
GIRLS GOLF: Southern Wells, Caston at Manchester, 4:30 p.m.; New Haven at Norwell, 4:30 p.m.
CROSS COUNTRY: Bluffton at Bellmont Invitational, 5 p.m.; Southern Wells at Southwood, 4:30 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Bluffton at Blackford, 6 p.m.; Norwell at Huntington North, 6 p.m.
———
Wednesday, Aug. 25
GIRLS GOLF: Blackford at Norwell, 4:30 p.m.
BOYS TENNIS: Norwell at South Adams, 5 p.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: Carroll at Norwell, 5 p.m.
———
Thursday, Aug. 26
GIRLS GOLF: Delta at Southern Wells, 4:30 p.m.; Norwell at East Noble, 4 p.m.
BOYS TENNIS: Norwell at Adams Central, 4:15 p.m.
BOYS SOCCER: Norwell at Carroll, 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Bluffton at Churubusco, 6 p.m.; Mississinewa at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Woodlan at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.
———
Friday, Aug. 27
FOOTBALL: Bluffton at Manchester, 7 p.m.; Southern Wells at Wabash, 7 p.m.; Heritage at Norwell, 7 p.m.
———
Saturday, Aug. 28
CROSS COUNTRY: Southern Wells, Norwell at Bluffton Invitational, 9 a.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Southern Wells at Taylor Invitational, 9 a.m.; Norwell at Prairie Heights Tournament, 9 a.m.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Tigers swat down Luers netmen
Using a sweep of the two doubles matches and a win by No. 2 singles player Jackson Bates, the Bluffton Tigers edged the Fort Wayne Bishop Luers Knights 3-2 in varsity boys’ tennis on Monday.
Bluffton won the junior varsity match 4-3.

BLUFFTON 3, FW BISHOP LUERS 2
VARSITY SINGLES: Charlie Scott (BL) def. Damon Kuhlenbeck 6-1, 6-1; Jackson Bates (BHS) def. Hunter Tobe 6-3, 6-0; Joey Leja (BL) def. Zach Mezera 6-2, 6-4.
VARSITY DOUBLES: Chandler Okey/Michael Vanderkolk (BHS) def. Ryan Pyle/Sam Scheer 6-3, 6-1; Alex Penrod/Brendan Baumgartner (BHS) def. Mark Hellinger/Gabe Sundberg 6-4, 6-1.
BLUFFTON 4, BISHOP LUERS 3
JUNIOR VARSITY SINGLES: Paul Buta (BL) def. Dillon Myers 8-4; Collin Hire (BL) def. Jacob Antrim 8-1; Jake Garrett (BHS) def. Buta 8-5; Hire (BL) def. Matt Dann 8-2; Austin Okey (BHS) def. Canyon Zwick 8-2; Nathaniel Clark (BHS) def. Mathieu Helmick 8-0.
JUNIOR VARSITY DOUBLES: Carson Addington/Jackson Lambert (BHS) def. Zwick/Helmick 8-1.

Norwell, Huntington North
tie in girls’ soccer
The Norwell girls’ soccer team came away with a 3-3 tie against the Huntington North Vikings on Monday in a match at Huntington.
Lauren Johnson scored two goals for the Knights and Carlee Harnish one. The goals came in the second half. Caitlin Ailor had two assists.
Kelsey Hollowell scored two first-half goals for the Vikings and Allison Johnson netted the last goal of the second half to tie the match.
Haley Heller was the Knights’ goalkeeper and made 20 saves. Kaylie Dunn was the Vikings’ netminder with 18 saves.
The Vikings raised their record to 2-1-1 and Norwell’s record is 0-1-1.

Vikings nip Norwell in boys’ soccer
Tyler Wemhoff scored a second-half goal to lead the Huntington North Vikings to a 1-0 victory over the Norwell Knights in boys’ soccer Monday at Norwell.
Wemhoff’s goal came at the end of the 47th minute against Norwell goalkeeper Justin Eberle.
The Vikings’ junior varsity team won 3-0.

Indians beat Bluffton spikers
Mississinewa defeated the Bluffton Tigers 3-0 in volleyball action Monday night at the Tiger Den.
The Indians won the three games 25-18, 25-18, 25-20.
Bluffton (1-5) was led by senior Kara Fiechter with six kills, two aces, eight digs and one assist. Maggie Garrett had nine digs, two aces, one kill and one assist. Natasha Patterson had seven digs, two kills and one ace. Gina Eisenhut had three kills, two digs, one block and one ace. Felicia Prible and Shelby Taylor each had two kills. Hannah Gilliam had four assists, four digs, one ace and one kill. Megan Evans had three assists, three digs and one ace.

Knights fourth in girls’ golf tourney
The Norwell girls’ golf team placed fourth in the New Haven Invitational tournament on Saturday at Whispering Oaks.
Kristen Springer led the Knights with an 18-hole round of 88. Megan Evans shot a 91 and Hannah Porrata turned in a 95. Cassie Herndon finished with a 102 to give Norwell a team score of 376. Kristine Morgan posted a score of 120.
In junior varsity action, Kelsey Beer led Norwell with a 106, followed by Bailey Nodine at 109, Kailey Thiele 120, Maggie Lazzell 122 and Alexis Hathaway 129.
Yorktown beat Leo 332-365 for the team championship 332-365. Fort Wayne Snider was third with 369. Fort Wayne Concordia Lutheran was fifth with 378, followed by Angola 382, Wayne Trace (Ohio) 396, New Haven 403, Fort Wayne Bishop Dwenger 405, Fremont 408, Fort Wayne Bishop Luers 411 and Blackford 426.

Golf scramble slated for
Norwell Baseball Club
The Norwell Baseball Club is taking registrations for the 19th Turf’s Up golf scramble on Sept. 25 at Timber Ridge Golf Club in Bluffton. Limited space is available and entry fee is $65. Entry deadline is Sept. 17. The shotgun start is set for 1 p.m. Registration begins at 12:15 p.m. Contact Kurt Gray for more details or registration at 260-414-5458 or 744-4387 or e-mail at norwellbaseball@frontier.com.

Sign up for Parlor City Trot races
Runners may register for the 36th Parlor City Trot presented by Bluffton Regional Medical Center. Race date is Saturday, Sept. 4. Starting time is 7:30 a.m. Participants may choose between three events: a half-marathon (13.1 miles), a 10-mile run or a 10-kilometer run.
Registration may be completed on-line at runrace.net or forms may be picked up at FPC and YMCA in Bluffton for mail-in registration. Any questions may be addressed to Mac at 260-450-1071 or e-mail at macmcavoy@gmail.com.

VanMeter selected to baseball team
Norwell sophomore Josh VanMeter was named to the Great Lakes Region NTIS (National Team Identification Series) 15-and-under Team on Monday. He was selected as a pitcher and middle infielder.
VanMeter, who also plays for the Summit City Sluggers, is one of just 18 players from the Great Lakes Region (Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois and Michigan) that will travel to Cary, N.C., Sept. 9-12 to compete against five other regional teams from the USA and Puerto Rico. Following the series, a minimum of eight of the 108 NTIS players will be selected to a spot on Team USA’s 2011 16-and-under National Team.

Norwell Football Club
concludes golf outing
Kyle Putt, Brady Diehl, Kevin Isch and Drew Imel took first place in the Norwell Football Club golf outing on Saturday at Timber Ridge Golf Club in Bluffton.
Twenty-three teams participated. Larry Clontz, Bruce Imel, Jeff Roberts and Chris Thompson placed second. Tim Wilson, Jim Wilson, Jeff Wilson and Carey Monnier finished third.
Putt also had the longest drive. Clontz was closest to the pin. Chris Schroeder had the longest putt.

BHS hog roast

Issac (left) and Caleb Gerber deliver the game ball under the impression of a FedEx man.


The Bluffton Tigers burst out of the banner ready for action!

Linda Sturgeon (right) followed by Chandler Prible, and Matthew Sturgeon fix up their plates friday night at the hog roast before the game.

Trey Mettler loads his plate up with some cheesy potatoes at the hog roast.

Photos by News-Banner Intern Marci Mettler

Sign up now for Salamonie’s Senior Citizen Fall Fest, Sept. 13-16

Indiana DNR Release:

The 2010 Salamonie Senior Fall Fest will take place Sept. 13-16, at the Salamonie Reservoir Interpretive Center.

Anyone over age 50 is welcome for a few days of fun, during which he or she could learn a new hobby such as drop spinning, knitting or wood carving.

The week begins on Monday with the monthly seniors carry-in luncheon at 12:30 p.m., featuring a presentation on Alpacas by Tom Burkhart. Bread and butter making begins at 3 p.m.

Tuesday activities begin at 8 a.m. with fishing, followed by a cement leaf craft, drop spinning, dishcloth knitting , a blacksmith demonstration and more fishing, ending with a fireside music jam.

Wednesday begins with apple cider making at 9 a.m., a carry-in dinner at noon, T-shirt leaf prints, wood carving, and entertainment in the evening.

Thursday ends the fest with a Dutch oven demo and a carry-in brunch at 10:30 a.m.

Participating seniors will pay the $2 program fee at the interpretive center upon arrival, which will give them one program pass to be used for all of the week’s events. Donations are always welcome and are used to help fund local programs and services.

Campers should note that campsites should be reserved and paid for using the Central Reservation System. Call 1-866-6CAMPIN or see www.CAMP.IN.gov.

This special event is located in Lost Bridge West Recreation Area on Highway 105 in western Huntington County. There is a $5 entrance fee ($7 for out-of-state vehicles) to enter the Lost Bridge West Recreation Area. Indiana residents may purchase an annual entrance permit for $36. Ages 65 or older may choose to purchase the annual Golden Hoosier Passport entrance permit for $18.

See www.dnr.IN.gov/uwis/ for more information or to download a registration form. Registration forms can also be requested by calling (260) 468-2127 or visiting the Salamonie Interpretive Center. Early registration is requested to help prepare for the event.

High School Sports Calendar

Monday, Aug. 23
BOYS TENNIS: FW Bishop Luers at Bluffton, 4:30 p.m.; FW South Side at Norwell, 4:30 p.m.
BOYS SOCCER: Huntington North at Norwell, 5 p.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: Norwell at Huntington North, 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Mississinewa at Bluffton, 6 p.m.
———
Tuesday, Aug. 24
GIRLS GOLF: Southern Wells, Caston at Manchester, 4:30 p.m.; New Haven at Norwell, 4:30 p.m.
CROSS COUNTRY: Bluffton at Bellmont Invitational, 5 p.m.; Southern Wells at Southwood, 4:30 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Bluffton at Blackford, 6 p.m.; Norwell at Huntington North, 6 p.m.
———
Wednesday, Aug. 25
GIRLS GOLF: Blackford at Norwell, 4:30 p.m.
BOYS TENNIS: Norwell at South Adams, 5 p.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: Carroll at Norwell, 5 p.m.
———
Thursday, Aug. 26
GIRLS GOLF: Delta at Southern Wells, 4:30 p.m.; Norwell at East Noble, 4 p.m.
BOYS TENNIS: Norwell at Adams Central, 4:15 p.m.
BOYS SOCCER: Norwell at Carroll, 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Bluffton at Churubusco, 6 p.m.; Mississinewa at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Woodlan at Norwell, 6:15 p.m.
———
Friday, Aug. 27
FOOTBALL: Bluffton at Manchester, 7 p.m.; Southern Wells at Wabash, 7 p.m.; Heritage at Norwell, 7 p.m.
———
Saturday, Aug. 28
CROSS COUNTRY: Southern Wells, Norwell at Bluffton Invitational, 9 a.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Southern Wells at Taylor Invitational, 9 a.m.; Norwell at Prairie Heights Tournament, 9 a.m.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Knights nipped by
South Side in boys’ soccer
Luis Arriaga scored an unassisted goal in the second half to lift Fort Wayne South Side’s boys’ soccer team to a 2-1 victory over the Norwell Knights Saturday afternoon at Norwell.
Arriaga’s goal came 22 seconds after Norwell’s Brandon Johnson tied the score at 1-1 in the 64th minute.
Briar Bolinger assisted on Johnson’s goal which beat South Side goalkeeper Alex Simerman. Bolinger also finished the match with five shots on goal.
South Side took the lead in the first half on a goal by Eric Schannen in the 19th minute. Arriaga assisted on the goal against Norwell goalkeeper Justin Eberle.
Norwell is now 2-1 for the season. In the junior varsity contest, South Side beat the Knights 3-1.

Youth baseball league slated
The Uniondale baseball field will be the location of a Sunday youth league for children 10-12 years old on Sept. 12, 19, 26 and Oct. 3. Games will be played at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m.
Each Sunday will include a special guest coach, along with instruction in base running, hitting, fielding and proper throwing and catching posture. Games will be played with instruction. All players need to furnish their own shoes, glove, bats and catcher’s equipment. Cost is $75, which includes a shirt.
For a registration form contact Mark De La Garza by e-mail at delagarza0185@comcast.net. Entry deadline is Sept. 1.

Men’s Basketball Adds Berry, Jordan And Koch To Roster

MUNCIE, Ind. – Ball State men’s basketball head coach Billy Taylor announced the addition of freshman Jesse Berry (Lafayette, Ind./Jefferson), sophomore Justin Jordan (Fort Wayne, Ind./St. Louis/Northside) and sophomore Tyler Koch (Winchester, Ind./Wright State/Winchester) to the BSU program. Berry will be eligible for the 2010-11 season while both Jordan and Koch will sit out the 2010-11 season due to NCAA transfer rules.
“We are really excited to add Jesse Berry as a freshman this season and welcome two transfers back to the state of Indiana; Justin Jordan and Tyler Koch,” Taylor said. “We feel like these three young men give us help in a lot of different areas of our basketball team, both now and in the future.”
Berry, a 6-1 guard, joins the Cardinals as a true freshman after turning in one of the top high school careers in the state of Indiana at Lafayette Jefferson High School. He finished his Broncho career as the school’s all-time leading scorer while setting a Tippecanoe County boys basketball scoring record with 1,553 career points. He also holds the Jefferson career records for free throws made (400), free throws attempted (538) and career games with 20-plus points (43).
“We are very excited to have Jesse in our program,” Taylor said. “He is a very talented guard that has accomplished much throughout his basketball career. While he has had some issues off the court he has had to deal with, we have gotten to know him well enough over the past two years and we feel he is a very good young man. His mother is very active in his life and with our support structure and mentoring here at Ball State, he will flourish.”
Berry finished his senior season 10th in the state in scoring at 23.5 points per game as he ended the year with 516 points. He connected on 52 three-pointers in 22 games and shot 78.8 percent (134-of-170) from the free throw line. He led the Bronchos to the regional semifinals and a 17-7 record as a senior.
As a junior, Berry set the Jefferson single-season scoring record with 628 points as he finished second in the state in scoring at 27.3 points per game. He connected on 60 three-pointers in 23 games, while shooting 36.5 percent from long range. He set the Jefferson single-game scoring record with 55 points against Fishers (1/16/09) and owns the top three single-game scoring records in school history (55, 51 & 46).
Jordan, a 5-9 guard, comes to Ball State after spending one season playing for former BSU head coach Rick Majerus at Saint Louis. He played in all 33 games as a true freshman and averaged 18.1 minutes per game as one of the Billikens’ top reserves. He connected on a team-high 38.3 percent (31-of-81) from three-point land and was fourth on the team with 58 assists. He averaged 4.9 points per game and reached double figures four times, including scoring a career-high 15 points against Missouri State (12/19/09).
“Justin is a welcomed addition to our program,” Taylor said. “We are really looking forward to helping him develop and grow his game. He had a very good experience at St. Louis as a freshman playing a lot of minutes and producing for that ball club. That experience will help him when he is able to step on the court for the Cardinals. We are excited to welcome him back home to Indiana and close to his home in Fort Wayne.”
Jordan was a standout at Northside High School in Fort Wayne where he was a two-time All-State selection and an Indiana All-Star selection. He finished second in Northside history in scoring with 1,398 career points and was a three-time Summit Athletic All-Conference recipient.
Jordan averaged 27.4 points per game as a senior, while also handing out 3.8 assists and 3.6 steals per game. He was named by the Indiana Basketball Coaches Association as one of the top 15 seniors in the state in 2008-09. He was chosen to play in the prestigious Indiana-Kentucky All-Star Game and played in the Border Wars Classic All-Star Game against standouts from Ohio. As a junior, he averaged 24.1 points, 3.5 assists and 3.2 steals per game for the Redskins.
Koch, a 6-5 forward, transfers into Ball State after one season at Wright State where he played in 16 games, while being limited with an injury. He was a standout at Winchester High School where he led the Golden Falcons to a 44-8 record as a junior and a senior. He finished 25th in the state in scoring at 22.2 points per game as a senior, while also recording 7.3 rebounds, 2.0 steals and 1.0 assists per game.
“Tyler is someone who we recruited out of high school and we are excited to bring him into our program,” Taylor said. “He brings long-range shooting, good size from the wing position and good toughness to our team. We are excited to have an opportunity to work with him to get him back in great physical health so he can flourish on the court.”
Koch, a two-time Tri-Eastern Conference Player of the Year, helped guide the Golden Falcons to state championship game appearances as a sophomore and junior. He averaged 22.5 points per game as a junior when he led Winchester to the 2A State Championship.
Koch was named the State Tournament Most Valuable Player after scoring 37 points in the championship game against Fort Wayne Luers. He shot 49.5 percent from the field, 40.2 percent from three-point land and 82.8 percent from the free throw line as a junior. He was named third team All-State by the Associated Press as a junior and was one of the Core Six members of the Indiana Junior All Stars.
The three additions to the Ball State basketball program join the previous additions of freshmen Matt Kamieniecki (Clarkston, Mich./Clarkston), Jay Copeland (Suffolk, Va./King’s Fork), Tyrae Robinson (Gary, Ind./Bowman Academy) and Chris Bond (Gary, Ind./Bowman Academy) for the 2010-11 season.
“We have a large class of new players we have added to our roster this year in five freshmen and two transfers,” Taylor said. “We are in a fortunate position where we have a strong core of returning players that have played a lot of minutes for us the past couple of years. This allowed us to go out and strategically attack areas we felt we needed more talent and experience. We were able to address our needs with this class with a variety of skill sets. We are excited about how this new group will blend with our returning players and it should make for a very good and exciting basketball team to watch this year.”

Paul Bunyan forestry for preschoolers at Salamonie, Sept. 8-9

Indiana DNR Release:

Forestry with Paul Bunyan, a program for children ages 2 to 5, will be offered at the Salamonie Interpretive Center, Sept. 8 and 9, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

This program includes indoor and outdoor activities focusing on the legend of Paul Bunyan and the work that foresters do in Indiana. Participants will make a craft, play lumberjack games and spend time outdoors.

The same program is being offered once each day to accommodate more children.

Participants are welcome to arrive early to enjoy the exhibit area and gift shop, and may bring a lunch to eat together after the event.

Caregivers must remain with their child throughout the program. There is a $2 fee per child. The usual gate fees are waived.

Register by either calling (260) 468-2127 or visiting the Salamonie Interpretive Center, 3691 S. New Holland Road, Andrews, 46702.

The Salamonie Interpretive Center and Otter Run Tradin’ Post is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. They are located in Lost Bridge West Recreation Area on Highway 105 in western Huntington County.

For more on activities from Upper Wabash Reservoirs Interpretive Services (UWIS), see www.dnr.IN.gov/uwis.

State's Archaeology Month starts Sept. 1

Indiana DNR Release:

September’s the time for Hoosier history buffs—and others who want to broaden their horizons—to learn about archaeological sites and artifacts, make stone tools and talk with archaeologists.

That’s because it’s Indiana Archaeology Month.

Gov. Mitch Daniels has proclaimed Sept. 1 as Indiana Archaeology Month Kick-off Day.

This year’s slogan, “Archaeology Rocks,” is a play on words in several ways. It conveys the excitement of archaeology and what can be learned through the science. The commemorative poster design this year features an interesting array of prehistoric stone artifacts, all found in Indiana.

Years of archaeological investigations have helped state residents understand the complexity of the prehistoric and historic people who also called this land home.

"Archaeology tells us not only about the past but sheds light about ourselves today and our future," said Robert E. Carter Jr., DNR director. "Archaeology Month provides a perfect way for Hoosiers to learn how with programs that are not only educational and informative but also fun."

In honor of this celebration, the DNR invites Hoosiers to discover the stories behind the facts of the state’s archaeological tale. For instance, the state archaeologist works for the DNR. Also, archaeologists have conducted investigations in Indiana since the early 1800s, finding and recording more than 59,000 archaeological sites.

Indiana Archaeology Month features events for all ages. For a schedule and more information, see dnr.IN.gov/historic or contact Amy Johnson of the DNR Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology, ajohnson@dnr.IN.gov or (317) 232-1646.

DNR seeks volunteers for Hoosier Outdoor Experience, Sept. 18-19

Indiana DNR Release:

The second annual Hoosier Outdoor Experience is looking for volunteers.

The event is Sept. 18-19 at Fort Harrison State Park in Indianapolis.

The goal of the Hoosier Outdoor Experience is to introduce people to outdoor activities they may have never tried. During last year’s inaugural free event, it was hard to tell who had a better time, participants or volunteers. Some 13,300 children and adults enjoyed hands-on tries at more than 50 outdoor activities.

If you already enjoy outdoor sports and recreation and want to help others learn to enjoy them as much as you do, sign up to volunteer at http://www.in.gov/dnr/5412.htm.

Activities will be organized in six stations: aquatics, cultural, equestrian, outdoors, shooting sports and wildlife. Shuttles will take participants from station to station.

You can designate the activity with which you wish to work. Activities needing volunteers include kayaking/canoeing, bowfishing, fishing, shotgun, rifle, archery, mock archaeological dig, Jeep rides, disc golf, road bicycling, ATV rides and jet boat rides. Shifts are four hours each.

If you are member of an official activity provider organization of the event and want to volunteer, use the "DNR approved activity provider" link at http://www.in.gov/dnr/5412.htm. If you are unsure if the group to which you belong is a provider organization for the Hoosier Outdoor Experience, check HoosierOutdoorExperience.IN.gov or contact OutdoorExperience@dnr.in.gov or (317) 233-1002.

Parking, admission, activities, demonstrations and seminars at the Hoosier Outdoor Experience are free to the public, but online registration of participants is requested to assist with planning/staffing of activities. To register to attend as a participant, go to HoosierOutdoorExperience.IN.gov and click on the orange registration icon. Watch there for event updates or on Facebook at Facebook.com/HoosierOutdoorExperience.

High School Sports Calendar

Thursday, Aug. 19
BOYS TENNIS: Bluffton at Bellmont, 4:15 p.m.; Jay County at Norwell, 5 p.m.
GIRLS GOLF: Bellmont at Norwell, 4 p.m.; Southern Wells vs. Muncie Southside, Jay County, 4:30 p.m.
BOYS SOCCER: Norwell at Leo, 5 p.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: Leo at Norwell, 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Bluffton at Wabash, 6 p.m.; Southwood at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Norwell at Heritage, 6 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 20
FOOTBALL: Northfield at Bluffton, 7 p.m.; Southwood at Southern Wells, 7 p.m.; Norwell at Leo, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 21
VOLLEYBALL: Bluffton at Madison-Grant Invitational, 9 a.m.; Southern Wells at Elwood Invitational, 9 a.m.; Norwell at Jay County Invitational, 9 a.m.
BOYS TENNIS: Norwell at DeKalb Invitational, 9 a.m.
CROSS COUNTRY: Southern Wells at Garrett Hokem-Karem, 9 a.m.; Norwell at Huntington North Invitational, 10 a.m.
BOYS SOCCER: FW South Side at Norwell, 10 a.m.
GIRLS GOLF: Norwell, Southern Wells at New Haven Invitational, 12:30 p.m.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Knights swat Concordia netmen
Norwell junior Reid Imel led the Knights’ tennis team to a 5-0 sweep of the Concordia Lutheran Cadets Wednesday in his first match at No. 1 singles.
Imel downed Cadets’ sophomore Andrew Koelper in two sets, 6-3, 6-1.
In the junior varsity match, Norwell won 3-1.

NORWELL 5, CONCORDIA LUTHERAN 0
VARSITY SINGLES: Reid Imel (N) d. Andrew Koelper 6-3, 6-1; Kyle Isch (N) d. Tom Conner 6-0, 1-6, 6-3; Tanner Bowen (N) d. Marcus Swift 6-2, 6-0.
VARSITY DOUBLES: Kyle Fillman/Ross Mathews (N) d. Clinton Bienz/Hans Bernabe 6-1, 6-1; Tanner Mathews/Mitchell Wilson (N) d. Dylan Baumgartner/Nathan Byers 6-1, 6-1.
NORWELL 3, CONCORDIA LUTHERAN 1
JUNIOR VARSITY SINGLES: Brandon Taylor (N) d. Nick Yergens 8-1; Damon Gerber (N) d. Sam Felton 8-2.
JUNIOR VARSITY DOUBLES: Tyler Smith/Jake Price (N) d. Austin Williams/William Jettinghoff 8-4; Yergens/Felton (CL) d. Drew Shively/Jordan Dickey (N) 8-6.

Hog roast Friday at Southern Wells
The Southern Wells Athletic Department is hosting a hog roast fundraiser Friday, Aug. 20, from 5-6:30 p.m. before the Southwood football game. Cost is $6 for adults and $5 for ages 6-12, if purchased before Friday. Cost at the door is $7 for adults and $6 for ages 6-12. Meal includes pulled pork sandwich, chips, cole slaw or applesauce, dessert and drink. All proceeds benefit the transportation budget.

Bluffton Boosters slate fall kickoff
The Bluffton Athletic Boosters will host a fall kickoff party Friday, Aug. 20, from 5-7 p.m. at Fred F. Park Field before the Northfield football game.
All Tiger fans are welcome to enjoy food, fun and show Tiger pride. A hog roast with sides, moonwalk and games will be provided. Donations will be accepted.

Bluffton needs coaches
The Bluffton Athletic Department is seeking candidates for coaching positions for wrestling, swimming and diving, and middle school girls’ basketball. Qualified applicants should contact Athletic Director Steve Thompson at sthompson@bhmsd.k12.in.us or 824-3724 as soon as possible.

Golf outing for Norwell baseball
The Norwell Baseball Club is taking registrations for the 19th Turf’s Up golf scramble on Sept. 25 at Timber Ridge Golf Club in Bluffton. Limited space is available and entry fee is $65. Entry deadline is Sept. 17. The shotgun start is set for 1 p.m. Registration begins at 12:15 p.m. Contact Kurt Gray for more details or registration at 260-414-5458 or 744-4387 or e-mail at norwellbaseball@frontier.com.

Whitaker to lead District 2 law enforcement

Indiana DNR Release:

Gary Whitaker, an 18-year officer with the DNR Division of Law Enforcement, has been promoted to Lieutenant in District 2, a nine-county area of northeast Indiana.

As the top-ranking officer in the district, Whitaker will be responsible for administrative duties and supervision of 19 Indiana conservation officers.

“I am very excited to have the opportunity to lead the officers in District 2 and can assure the public that our officers are committed to ensuring the safe and responsible use of our state’s natural resources,” Whitaker said.

Whitaker, 41, has spent the last five years in the Investigation Section of DNR Law Enforcement. Prior to that, he was a field officer for 13 year in Allen and LaGrange counties.

He is a certified instructor in river rescue and has completed training in several specialty areas, including boat accident investigation and homicide investigation. Whitaker is a 1990 graduate of Vincennes University, where he majored in law enforcement. He joined the DNR in October 1992 and was a 1993 honors graduate of the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy.

District 2 is headquartered in Columbia City. It is one of 10 DNR Law Enforcement districts and includes Adams, Allen, DeKalb, Huntington, LaGrange, Noble, Steuben, Wells and Whitley counties.

DNR's Law Enforcement Division employs 214 conservation officers who serve the public and protect the natural heritage of Indiana. Founded in 1897, the Law Enforcement Division is the oldest state law enforcement agency, and one of the most diverse.

In addition to enforcing state laws, Indiana conservation officers are active in a variety of non-enforcement activities, such as boater, snowmobile, hunter and trapper education programs, the Karl Kelley Youth Camp, and the Becoming an Outdoors Woman programs. They also are trained and assigned to specialty response units, including river rescue, cave rescue, underwater search and recovery, and K-9 teams.

High School Sports Calendar

Wednesday, Aug. 18
BOYS TENNIS: Norwell at FW Concordia Lutheran, 4:30 p.m.
GIRLS GOLF: Southern Wells at Norwell, 4:30 p.m. (rescheduled)

Thursday, Aug. 19
BOYS TENNIS: Bluffton at Bellmont, 4:15 p.m.; Jay County at Norwell, 5 p.m.
GIRLS GOLF: Bellmont at Norwell, 4 p.m.; Southern Wells vs. Muncie Southside, Jay County, 4:30 p.m.
BOYS SOCCER: Norwell at Leo, 5 p.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: Leo at Norwell, 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Bluffton at Wabash, 6 p.m.; Southwood at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Norwell at Heritage, 6 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 20
FOOTBALL: Northfield at Bluffton, 7 p.m.; Southwood at Southern Wells, 7 p.m.; Norwell at Leo, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 21
VOLLEYBALL: Bluffton at Madison-Grant Invitational, 9 a.m.; Southern Wells at Elwood Invitational, 9 a.m.; Norwell at Jay County Invitational, 9 a.m.
BOYS TENNIS: Norwell at DeKalb Invitational, 9 a.m.
CROSS COUNTRY: Southern Wells at Garrett Hokem-Karem, 9 a.m.; Norwell at Huntington North Invitational, 10 a.m.
BOYS SOCCER: FW South Side at Norwell, 10 a.m.
GIRLS GOLF: Norwell, Southern Wells at New Haven Invitational, 12:30 p.m.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Bluffton netmen beat Bruins
The Bluffton Tigers’ tennis team bounced back Tuesday to post its first win by a 4-1 margin over the visiting Blackford Bruins.
The Tigers are 1-1 overall.
In junior varsity action, the Tigers lost 2-0.

BLUFFTON 4, BLACKFORD 1
VARSITY SINGLES: Aric Durm (BLA) def. Damon Kuhlenbeck 6-1, 7-6 (7-3); Jackson Bates (BLU) def. Chase Twibell 6-2, 6-2; Brendan Baumgartner (BLU) def. Trevor Smith 6-1, 6-3.
VARSITY DOUBLES: Chandler Okey/Michael Vanderkolk (BLU) def. Trevor Schamber/Ethan Harriett 6-3, 6-4; Zach Mezera/Alex Penrod (BLU) def. Mitchell Lanning/Brent Rucker 6-2, 6-4.
JUNIOR VARSITY: Bailey Landis (BLA) def. Jake Garrett 8-5; Bailey Landis (BLA) def. Carson Addington 8-4.

Hog roast Friday
at Southern Wells
The Southern Wells Athletic Department is hosting a hog roast fundraiser Friday, Aug. 20, from 5-6:30 p.m. before the Southwood football game. Cost is $6 for adults and $5 for ages 6-12, if purchased before Friday. Cost at the door is $7 for adults and $6 for ages 6-12. Meal includes pulled pork sandwich, chips, cole slaw or applesauce, dessert and drink. All proceeds benefit the transportation budget.

Bluffton Boosters
slate fall kickoff
The Bluffton Athletic Boosters will host a fall kickoff party Friday, Aug. 20, from 5-7 p.m. at Fred F. Park Field before the Northfield football game.
All Tiger fans are welcome to enjoy food, fun and show Tiger pride. A hog roast with sides, moonwalk and games will be provided. Donations will be accepted.

Reminder for
Bluffton spectators
Bluffton High School athletic fans and spectators will be required to park in the large parking lot on the northeast side the school. All people attending volleyball, girls’ basketball and wrestling events should enter through Door 5.

Bluffton needs coaches
The Bluffton Athletic Department is seeking candidates for coaching positions for wrestling, swimming and diving, and middle school girls’ basketball. Qualified applicants should contact Athletic Director Steve Thompson at sthompson@bhmsd.k12.in.us or 824-3724 as soon as possible.

Gilliom, McCormick
lead seniors
Bob Gilliom and Herman McCormick were the leaders for the Tuesday Men’s Senior Gold League at Green Valley Golf Club in Bluffton.
Gilliom had the low gross score of 40, while McCormick had the low net score of 32. Gilliom also played on the winning team with Bill Fuller, Alan Penrod and Bud Frauhiger.
Tom Williams was closest to the pin. Frauhiger made the longest putt. Dave Prible had the fewest putts with 12.

Ouabache State Park Events

Interpretive Naturalist: Kate Curless
Office Phone: 824-0926
4930 E. SR 201, Bluffton
OuabacheInterp@dnr.IN.gov
Ouabache's interpretive programs are family oriented. Parents and children are encouraged to attend activities together. An adult should accompany children under the age of 10. In the case of inclement weather, all hikes will meet at the Campview Shelter. Schedule subject to change.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18
7 p.m. — Blinded by the light. These insects just can’t seem to get enough of the light. Find out what attracts moths to light tonight at Trails End Shelter.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 19
7 p.m. — Living green. Living green gets easier every year. Discover a few easy things you can do to make your life greener at Lakeside Shelter.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 20
7:30 p.m. — Campfire story. Join Naturalist Kate at Campview Shelter to learn a little bit about bats. Then listen to the story of Stellaluna. After the story we’ll make our own bats to take home.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 21
With special guest Naturalist Jody Heaston
2 p.m. — Monarch quest. These beautiful butterflies are getting ready to migrate south to Mexico. Learn about these amazing insects, play a fun game and search for some too. Meet at Campview Shelter.
3:45 p.m. — Pool break frog freeze. Learn about frogs while playing this fun game on the pool lawn! Swimmers, don’t forget to get your hand stamped!
6-7 p.m. — Roving interpreter. Keep your eyes open for the Naturalist as she walks the campground with something to share.
8 p.m. — Mother Nature bingo. Join Mother Nature for a rousing game of bingo at Campview Shelter.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 22
10 a.m. — Worship service. Join a local pastor for a worship service in the beauty of the great outdoors. Service is held at Campview Shelter.
11 a.m. — Hoosier Quest. Discover! Connect! Explore! Learn more about these great project based programs that you can complete at any of the State Parks and Reservoirs. Get started by meeting at Campview Shelter located in the middle of Campground A!
1:45 p.m. — Little green. This water wader can sometime be found nesting around the lake. Discover the green heron on the pool lawn during the safety check. Swimmers, don’t forget to get your hand stamped!

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Knights win in season debut
After falling behind early in the first half, Norwell took control and scored the last five goals to defeat the Wayne Generals 6-3 in the first boys’ soccer match of the Knights’ 2010 season.
At Norwell, Briar Bolinger scored three goals to lead the Knights. He got his team’s offense rolling after Wayne jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the 13th minute.
Wayne’s Juan Dominggaez put the Generals ahead 3-1 in the 30th minute, but Drew Burch scored for Norwell in the 36th minute and Jaron Moser tied the match at 3-3 with a goal just 38 seconds later.
Norwell blanked Wayne in the second half. Damon Topp made it 4-3 in the 44th minute. Bolinger finished the scoring with a goal in the 75th minute and in the 77th minute.
Norwell goalkeepers Kale DeVoe and Justin Eberle split time guarding the Knights’ net. Eberle blanked the Vikings with six saves in the last 45 minutes. DeVoe had four saves but allowed three goals. Topp also had an assist.
Tyler Alday and Jose Salazar scored Wayne’s first two goals.
In the junior varsity match, Wayne came away with a 2-1 victory.

Tigers lose tennis opener
Mississinewa defeated Bluffton 5-0 in varsity tennis on Monday in the Tigers’ season opener.
The visiting Indians also won the junior varsity match 4-2.

MISSISSINEWA 5, BLUFFTON 0
VARSITY SINGLES: Abram Fleming (M) def. Damon Kuhlenbeck 6-1, 6-0; Dalton Miller (M) def. Jackson Bates 6-0, 6-2; Austin Branock (M) def. Brendan Baumgartner 6-0, 6-0.
VARSITY DOUBLES: Collin Smith/Payton Scott (M) def. Chandler Okey/Michael Vanderkolk 6-3, 6-1; Ryan Porter/Scott Atkins (M) def. Zach Mezera/Alex Penrod 6-4, 6-2.
MISSISSINEWA 4, BLUFFTON 2
JUNIOR VARSITY SINGLES: Landon Price (M) def. Josh Buckland 8-4; Jacob May (M) def. Jake Garrett 8-5; Andy Kirby (M) def. Jacob Antrim 8-6; Clay Ailes (M) def. Alex Miller 8-2.
JUNIOR VARSITY DOUBLES: Austin Okey/Carson Addington (B) def. Gabriel Martin/Jacob May 8-4; Nathaniel Clark/Stephen Vanderkolk (B) def. Jeff Slater/Colton Shipley 8-2.

Hog roast at Southern Wells Friday
The Southern Wells Athletic Department is hosting a hog roast fundraiser Friday, Aug. 20, from 5-6:30 p.m. before the Southwood football game. Cost is $6 for adults and $5 for ages 6-12, if purchased before Friday. Cost at the door is $7 for adults and $6 for ages 6-12. Meal includes pulled pork sandwich, chips, cole slaw or applesauce, dessert and drink. All proceeds benefit the transportation budget.

Instructional baseball league slated
A fall instructional baseball league for children 10-12 years old will be held on Sunday, Sept. 12, 19, 26 and Oct. 3 at Uniondale. Cost is $75, including a shirt. Games will be played at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Contact Mark De La Garza, 409, Bittersweet Lane, Ossian, IN 46777 or e-mail at delagarza0185@comcast.net

Bluffton Boosters slate fall kickoff
The Bluffton Athletic Boosters will host a fall kickoff party Friday, Aug. 20, from 5-7 p.m. at Fred F. Park Field before the Northfield football game.
All Tiger fans are welcome to enjoy food, fun and show Tiger pride. A hog roast with sides, moonwalk and games will be provided. Donations will be accepted.

Reminder for Bluffton spectators
Bluffton High School athletic fans and spectators will be required to park in the large parking lot on the northeast side the school. All people attending volleyball, girls’ basketball and wrestling events should enter through Door 5.

Sign up for Parlor City Trot races
Runners may register for the 36th Parlor City Trot presented by Bluffton Regional Medical Center. Race date is Saturday, Sept. 4. Starting time is 7:30 a.m. Participants may choose between three events: a half-marathon (13.1 miles), a 10-mile run or a 10-kilometer run.
Registration may be completed on-line at runrace.net or forms may be picked up at FPC and YMCA in Bluffton for mail-in registration. Any questions may be addressed to Mac at 260-450-1071 or e-mail at macmcavoy@gmail.com.

Girls’ golf poll released
Two Northeast Hoosier Conference teams are in the top 10 of the Indiana high school girls’ golf Top 20, released Friday. East Noble is ranked sixth and DeKalb ninth. The complete poll is as follows:

1. Indianapolis Roncalli; 2. Richmond; 2. Hamilton Southeastern; 4. Martinsville; 5. Penn; 6. East Noble; 7. Noblesville; 8. Carmel; 9. DeKalb; 10. Columbus North; 11. Indianapolis Chatard; 12. Zionsville; 13. Indianapolis Cathedral; 14. Lafayette Jeff; 15. Center Grove; 16. Evansville Memorial; 17. Plainfield; 18. Evansville North; 19. Yorktown; 20. Western.
Honorable Mention: Ben Davis, Kokomo, Chesterton, Jasper, Northwestern.

Field set for NIT Season Tip-Off
NEW YORK (AP) — Villanova, Tennessee, Wake Forest and UCLA will serve as the regional hosts for the 2010 NIT Season Tip-Off.
The first-round pairings for the 16-team tournament were announced Monday.
The first- and second-round games will be played Nov. 15-17 with the winners advancing to Madison Square Garden for the semifinals on Nov. 24. The championship game is Nov. 26.
The North Regional will have Villanova hosting Marist and George Washington against Boston University. In the South Regional, Belmont will be at Tennessee while Missouri State faces Arkansas State.
The East Regional has Hampton at Wake Forest and Virginia Commonwealth against Winthrop. UCLA hosts Pepperdine in the West Regional and Nevada faces Pacific.
The consolation games will be played Nov. 22-23 at sites to be determined.
Duke, which went to win the national championship, beat Connecticut to win last year’s NIT Season Tip-Off.

Biodiversity survey shows diversity at Goose Pond FWA

Indiana DNR Release:

By the time a final species count at Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area (FWA) is complete, more than 1,000 species are likely to have been found during the inaugural biodiversity survey at Indiana’s largest wetland restoration area.

Researchers at the 8,000-acre property south of Linton in southwest Indiana aim to lay the groundwork for future studies.

Highlight species found include purple fringeless orchid, which is widespread and secure, but also on the Indiana watch list; American ruby spot dragonfly; bog lemming; and the barn owl.

Researchers found the diversity of wetland plants present through natural recruitment impressive, since no wetland vegetation was planted at the beginning of the restoration.

Survey results showed 20 species of amphibians and reptiles, 79 species of beetles, 33 bee species, 124 bird species, 47 butterfly species, 22 species of dragonflies and damselflies, 41 moth species identified with 40 more to be identified, four species of marsh flies, five fungi, and 375 vascular plant species.

A summary is here.


Data from the survey will be shared with appropriate state agencies and a brief report will be submitted to the Proceedings of the IAS (Indiana Academy of Science) for publication. Watch also for the IAS newsletter publication: Here.

The FWA was created under the Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and is the seventh largest such project in the country. It covers 7,138 acres in two sections, Goose Pond (5,945 acres) and Beehunter Marsh (1,193 acres), both of which are both part of Goose Pond FWA. Click here.

Early migratory bird 2010 season dates

The 2010 early migratory bird season dates have been submitted to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service by the Indiana DNR as listed below.
As in other years, these dates are not final until the USFWS approves them, which typically happens by the end of August. The season dates fall within the framework provided by USFWS, so no changes are anticipated. A later Wild Bulletin will notify you of approval or change.
Indiana’s requested seasons have never been altered by USFWS after submission; however, there is always the slight possibility of change; therefore, the dates below should not be interpreted as being final.
Bag limit, possession limit and licensing information is at hunting.IN.gov.
–Mourning Doves

Statewide, 15-bird bag/30-bird possession limit: Sept. 1–Oct. 17 & Nov. 5–27

–Sora Rails

Statewide, 25-bird bag/25-bird possession limit: Sept. 1–Nov. 9

–Woodcock

Statewide, three-bird bag/six-bird possession limit: Oct. 15–Nov. 28

–Common Snipe

Statewide, eight-bird bag/16-bird possession limit: Sept. 1–Dec. 16

–September Teal

Statewide, four-bird bag/eight-bird possession limit, blue- and green-winged teal only: Sept. 4–19

–Canada Geese

Statewide, five-bird bag/10-bird possession limit: Sept. 1–15

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For more information: Adam Phelps, DNR Division of Fish and Wildlife, (812) 334-1137, aphelps@dnr.in.gov

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Regular-season 2010 waterfowl season dates
The regular-season waterfowl dates, as proposed to the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) by the Indiana DNR, are listed below. The dates are not final until approved by the USFWS in mid- to late September. Look for another Wild Bulletin around that time that will either confirm or amend these dates. Historically, they have been accepted as proposed.
–Ducks, coots, and mergansers:
North Zone: Oct. 16–Dec. 14
South Zone: Oct. 23–31 and Nov. 24, 2010–Jan. 13, 2011
Ohio River Zone: Oct. 30–31 and Nov. 27, 2010–Jan. 23, 2011

The bag limit is six ducks daily, including no more than four mallards (no more than two of which may be hens), three wood ducks, two pintails, two redheads, two scaup, one canvasback, one black duck, and one mottled duck. The possession limit is twice the daily bag limit.

–Canada geese:
North Zone: Oct. 16–17 and Nov. 6, 2010–Jan. 16, 2011
South Zone: Oct. 23–31 and Nov. 24, 2010–Jan. 27, 2011
Ohio River Zone: Oct. 30–31, 2010 and Nov. 21, 2010–Jan. 31, 2011
Bag limit is two Canada geese daily; possession limit is four.
–Late Canada Goose Zone: Feb. 1–15, 2011
The late Canada Goose Zone includes the following counties: Adams, Allen, Boone, Clay, DeKalb, Elkhart, Greene, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Huntington, Johnson, Kosciusko, LaPorte, LaGrange, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Morgan, Noble, Parke, St. Joseph, Shelby, Steuben, Starke, Sullivan, Vermillion, Vigo, Wells and Whitley. Special restrictions apply: a free permit is required.
Special Regulations: Terre Haute Subzone (Vermillion, Parke, Vigo, Clay, Sullivan, and Greene counties)

All birds harvested in the Terre Haute subzone during this special season must be checked at a state goose check station. Check-station locations and hours will be sent to participants with their permit, and will be available beginning in December at wildlife.IN.gov.

–Light geese and brant:
Statewide: Oct. 16, 2010–Jan. 28, 2011
Bag limit of 20 light geese (snow and/or Ross' geese) and one brant. Possession limit is two brant. There is no possession limit on light geese.

Light goose conservation order: Feb. 1–March 31, 2011, EXCEPT
within the Late Canada Goose Zone: Feb. 16–March 31, 2011
No bag or possession limit. A free permit is required. Details will be available later in the winter.

–White-fronted geese
Nov. 6, 2010–Jan. 30, 2011
Bag limit of one white-fronted goose. Possession limit is two.

–Youth waterfowl hunt:
North Zone: Oct. 9–10, 2010
South Zone: Oct. 16–17, 2010
Ohio River Zone: Oct. 23–24, 2010
Bag and possession limits are the same as for the regular seasons. Season is open to youths 15 years of age or younger, accompanied by an adult.

–Extended Falconry:
Ducks, coots and mergansers:
North Zone: Sept. 27–30, 2010 and Feb. 14–March 10, 2011
South Zone: Oct. 16–22, 2010 and Feb. 17–March 10, 2011
Ohio River Zone: Oct. 23–29, 2010 and Feb. 17–March 10, 2011
Late Canada goose season will continue
The Late Canada Goose Zone season will continue. This season will be open Feb. 1-15, 2011, in the following counties: Adams, Allen, Boone, Clay, DeKalb, Elkhart, Greene, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Huntington, Johnson, Kosciusko, La Porte, LaGrange, Madison, Marion, Marshall, Morgan, Noble, Parke, St. Joseph, Shelby, Starke, Steuben, Sullivan, Vermillion, Vigo, Wells and Whitley. During this season, hunters may take five Canada geese per day.
The evaluation of the late seasons for the past three years has shown that most of the state exceeds the 80 percent giant harvest required by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for special late seasons; however, the Terre Haute subzone did not reach 80 percent. The Service has allowed Indiana DNR to continue the hunt in this subzone as long as we continue to evaluate harvest there. See below for special regulations in the Terre Haute subzone.
Hunters will still be required to obtain a special permit. However, only birds taken in the Terre Haute subzone (Vermillion, Parke, Vigo, Clay, Sullivan, and Greene counties) will need to be checked at a DNR check station. Details will be available later this winter.
In the Late Canada Goose Zone, the Light Goose Conservation Order does not open until Feb. 16, the day after the Late Canada Goose season closes.
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More information: Adam Phelps, DNR Division of Fish and Wildlife, (812) 334-1137, aphelps@dnr.in.gov

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2010 Dove Draw Results Posted
The 2010 Dove Draw Results are now posted online at hunting.IN.gov. Click on the Reserved Hunt Information link, then view draw results.




About Fish and Wildlife Management in Indiana
Fish and wildlife management and public access are funded by fishing and hunting license revenue and also through the Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Programs administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. These programs collect excise taxes on sporting arms and ammunition, archery equipment, fishing equipment, and motor boat fuels. The money is distributed among state fish and wildlife agencies based on land size and the number of licensed anglers and hunters in each state. Find out more information about fish and wildlife management in Indiana at http://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Woodward named to
Cape Cod All-stars
Scott Woodward, a 2007 Norwell High School graduate, recently was named to the Cape Cod Baseball League All-stars.
Woodward, who will return to Coastal Carolina University this fall, played outfield for the Bourne Braves in the CCBL.
He was drafted this summer by the Oakland A’s, but he will be returning to Coastal Carolina to finish his education.
In 24 games for the Braves, Woodward batted .308 in 78 at bats. He had 24 hits, including four doubles and three RBIs. He also had 20 walks and 20 stolen bases. His on base percentage was .476.
The Braves’ center fielder injured himself on July 28 before playing in a game at Fenway Park in Boston. He broke a bone in his left foot as he rounded first base during practice. He had surgery to insert a screw into the bone and also had a bone graft. He is recovering and should be fully healed by next baseball season.

Hog roast at Southern Wells Friday
The Southern Wells Athletic Department is hosting a hog roast fundraiser Friday, Aug. 20, from 5-6:30 p.m. before the Southwood football game. Cost is $6 for adults and $5 for ages 6-12, if purchased before Friday. Cost at the door is $7 for adults and $6 for ages 6-12. Meal includes pulled pork sandwich, chips, cole slaw or applesauce, dessert and drink. All proceeds benefit the transportation budget.

Instructional baseball league slated
A fall instructional baseball league for children 10-12 years old will be held on Sunday, Sept. 12, 19, 26 and Oct. 3 at Uniondale. Cost is $75, including a shirt. Games will be played at 11 a.m., 1 and 3 p.m. Contact Mark De La Garza, 409, Bittersweet Lane, Ossian, IN 46777.

Change in Raiders’ volleyball match
The Southern Wells volleyball match at Eastbrook on Tuesday night has been changed to a varsity only match starting at 6 p.m.

High School Sports Calendar

Monday, Aug. 16
BOYS TENNIS: Mississinewa at Bluffton, 4:30 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Huntington North at Bluffton, 6 p.m.
BOYS SOCCER: FW Wayne at Norwell, 5 p.m.

Tuesday, Aug. 17
BOYS TENNIS: Blackford at Bluffton, 4:30 p.m.
CROSS COUNTRY: Norwell at DeKalb Invitational, 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Southern Wells at Eastbrook, 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 18
BOYS TENNIS: Norwell at FW Concordia Lutheran, 4:30 p.m.
GIRLS GOLF: Southern Wells at Norwell, 4:30 p.m. (rescheduled)

Thursday, Aug. 19
BOYS TENNIS: Bluffton at Bellmont, 4:15 p.m.; Jay County at Norwell, 5 p.m.
GIRLS GOLF: Bellmont at Norwell, 4 p.m.; Southern Wells vs. Muncie Southside, Jay County, 4:30 p.m.
BOYS SOCCER: Norwell at Leo, 5 p.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: Leo at Norwell, 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Bluffton at Wabash, 6 p.m.; Southwood at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Norwell at Heritage, 6 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 20
FOOTBALL: Northfield at Bluffton, 7 p.m.; Southwood at Southern Wells, 7 p.m.; Norwell at Leo, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 21
VOLLEYBALL: Bluffton at Madison-Grant Invitational, 9 a.m.; Southern Wells at Elwood Invitational, 9 a.m.; Norwell at Jay County Invitational, 9 a.m.
BOYS TENNIS: Norwell at DeKalb Invitational, 9 a.m.
CROSS COUNTRY: Southern Wells at Garrett Hokem-Karem, 9 a.m.; Norwell at Huntington North Invitational, 10 a.m.
BOYS SOCCER: FW South Side at Norwell, 10 a.m.
GIRLS GOLF: Norwell, Southern Wells at New Haven Invitational, 12:30 p.m.

Roush Lake to become Fish and Wildlife Area

Indiana DNR Release:

J. Edward Roush Lake will switch from being managed by the DNR Division of State Parks and Reservoirs to being managed by the DNR Division of Fish and Wildlife and will become a Fish and Wildlife Area, possibly as early as Nov. 1.

“Roush Lake is already a great place for hunters and anglers and this will make it even better,” said Mark Reiter, director of the Division of Fish and Wildlife. “Its size similarities (8,217 acres, including 870 acres of water) with the other Fish and Wildlife Areas and its shooting range make it a natural for outdoor sportsmen and sportswomen.”

The change, once in place, gives northeast Indiana its third Fish and Wildlife Area. The others are Tri-County and Pigeon River. The change also, once in place, means gate admission will no longer be charged and the purchase of lake permits will no longer be required to boat.

With the transfer, some previous recreational offerings will no longer be available at Roush.

“We know that many local residents use Roush Lake for a variety of recreational activities,” said Dan Bortner, director of State Parks and Reservoirs. “Many of those activities will still be available. For activities that are not compatible with federal funding, we are lucky to have convenient locations at Salamonie Lake and Ouabache State Park, both within a 30-minute drive.”

The DNR Division of State Parks and Reservoirs will look at relocating some of the affected recreational facilities to the other two Upper Wabash reservoirs, Salamonie and Mississinewa.

Those two properties, along with Roush, are leased by the DNR from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. At such properties, the DNR manages the recreational facilities and wildlife areas. The Corps manages the dams and recreational facilities immediately around the dams, and monitors and regulates lake levels. The Corps will continue to do so at Roush.

The cost savings will occur from a shift in staffing and other operating costs, and as a result of federal grant dollars available to the Division of Fish and Wildlife through the Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration Program. This longstanding legislation assesses taxes on the sale of sporting arms, ammunition, archery equipment and fishing equipment that is returned to the states for use in restoration and management of fish and wildlife, and habitat.

In an effort to be consistent with other Fish and Wildlife Areas and to maximize federal funds, admission to the property will not be charged and activities will be limited primarily to those that focus on fish and wildlife management, as defined by the grants. After the transfer, approximately half of the Roush operation will be funded by the dedicated Division of Fish and Wildlife fund that comes from fishing, hunting and trapping license sales. The other half will come from the federal funds.

The DNR chose Roush Lake for this transfer because of the many similarities between it and the current Fish and Wildlife Areas it manages, including size, usage by hunters and anglers, wildlife management practices, the presence of a shooting range and the put-and-take pheasant hunt that occurs on the property annually.

Full-time staffing at the property will be reduced from seven to five. The DNR will offer full-time positions to displaced full-time workers. Roush’s current staff of 20 intermittent workers will be reduced to eight.

The main campground in Roush’s Kilsoquah State Recreation Area will remain open. The beach in Little Turtle State Recreation Area will close. Some picnic shelters will be removed.

The model airport will close. DNR staff will work with users to evaluate the potential for a site at another nearby state property. The mountain bike trail will close and mountain biking will no longer be permitted. The Salamonie mountain bike trail will remain a local option. The changes are an effort to maximize cost savings and maximize Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration funding.

The site name will be J. Edward Roush Fish and Wildlife Area. Once this change becomes effective, there will be 23 DNR-managed Fish and Wildlife Areas in the state and eight lakes managed by the Division of State Parks and Reservoirs. For a listing, see dnr.IN.gov. For a list of frequently asked questions and answers about the transition, see http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2956.htm

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Dan Houlihan 9 back of
British Seniors Open Amateur leader
Dr. Daniel Houlihan, a 1970 Bluffton High School graduate of Rockford, Ill., shot a four-over-par 76 Thursday in the second round of the Seniors Open Amateur Championship at Walton Heath in England.
Houlihan is among five players tied for 11th place with a four-over 148 in the field of 144 golfers.
American Paul Simson shot a three-under 69 Thursday and leads the way with a five-under 139. First-round leader Danny Yates of the United States and Garth McGimpsey of England are tied for second place at two under. USA’s Chip Lutz is fourth at one under.

Crusader football practice to begin
Norwell Middle School football practice begins Monday, Aug. 16. Practice will take place from 3-5 p.m. Players should meet at the boys’ locker room at 2:30. Players are encouraged to bring water jugs. All players must have a physical exam form on file in order to practice.

Bluffton seeking adult workers
The Bluffton Athletic Department is seeking adult workers for the upcoming fall sports season. Paid positions would include: volleyball line judges, scoreboard operators and ticket sellers. Please respond to Steve Thompson, sthompson@bhsmd.k12.in.us or call the high school at 824-3724.

Bluffton Boosters slate fall kickoff
The Bluffton Athletic Boosters will host a fall kickoff party Friday, Aug. 20, from 5-7 p.m. at Fred F. Park Field before the Northfield football game.
All Tiger fans are welcome to enjoy food, fun and show Tiger pride. A hog roast with sides, moonwalk and games will be provided. Donations will be accepted.

Runners, walkers invited for races
The first Back to School 5K Run/Walk and Children’s Fun’N’Run, hosted by Jericho ATCFM, Inc., is Saturday, Aug. 21, in Bluffton. The race begins at Pickett’s Run and crosses over onto the Rivergreenway. The 5K begins at 8 a.m., followed by the Fun’N’Run at 9 a.m. Race day registration begins at 7:15 a.m. Cost is $20. For more information, contact Cylie at 260-353-1340.

End of road for Chipper Jones?
ATLANTA (AP) — Chipper Jones may have played his last game in the major leagues after tearing up his left knee while fielding a ground ball.
The Atlanta Braves said Thursday that the 38-year-old third baseman tore his anterior cruciate ligament and will need surgery. The estimated recovery time is six months — if Jones decides to return in 2011.

High School Sports Calendar

Monday, Aug. 16
BOYS TENNIS: Mississinewa at Bluffton, 4:30 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Huntington North at Bluffton, 6 p.m.
BOYS SOCCER: FW Wayne at Norwell, 5 p.m.

Tuesday, Aug. 17
BOYS TENNIS: Blackford at Bluffton, 4:30 p.m.
CROSS COUNTRY: Norwell at DeKalb Invitational, 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Southern Wells at Eastbrook, 6 p.m.

Wednesday, Aug. 18
BOYS TENNIS: Norwell at FW Concordia Lutheran, 4:30 p.m.

Thursday, Aug. 19
BOYS TENNIS: Bluffton at Bellmont, 4:15 p.m.; Jay County at Norwell, 4:30 p.m.
GIRLS GOLF: Norwell at Bellmont, 4 p.m.; Southern Wells vs. Muncie Southside, Jay County, 4:30 p.m.
BOYS SOCCER: Norwell at Leo, 5 p.m.
GIRLS SOCCER: Leo at Norwell, 5 p.m.
VOLLEYBALL: Bluffton at Wabash, 6 p.m.; Southwood at Southern Wells, 6 p.m.; Norwell at Heritage, 6 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 20
FOOTBALL: Northfield at Bluffton, 7 p.m.; Southwood at Southern Wells, 7 p.m.; Norwell at Leo, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 21
VOLLEYBALL: Bluffton at Madison-Grant Invitational, 9 a.m.; Southern Wells at Elwood Invitational, 9 a.m.; Norwell at Jay County Invitational, 9 a.m.
BOYS TENNIS: Norwell at DeKalb Invitational, 9 a.m.
CROSS COUNTRY: Southern Wells at Garrett Hokem-Karem, 9 a.m.; Norwell at Huntington North Invitational, 10 a.m.
BOYS SOCCER: FW South Side at Norwell, 10 a.m.
GIRLS GOLF: Norwell, Southern Wells at New Haven Invitational, 12:30 p.m.

Cool down with DNR this weekend at State Fair

Indiana DNR Release:

With more heat headed our way for the State Fair this weekend, make sure to make the air-conditioned Natural Resources Building a frequent stop during your visit.

On Friday, the DNR’s Roving Naturalist will assist the A.C. by talking about Ice age animals to anyone who’ll listen between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. During the same hours on Saturday, the naturalist will talk about bird watching. Sunday’s 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. subject will be how to Leave No Trace when in the outdoors.

That’s not cool enough for you? On Friday, check information about Lake Michigan shipwrecks from 2 to 4 p.m. on the building’s front porch, the same location at which you can see fly-tying demonstrations from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday. Sunday at 2 p.m., make sure to have your kids at the building’s Front Porch enjoy the breeze as Smokey Bear blows out candles during his birthday party.

Follow DNR activities at the State Fair at the DNR's State Fair blog and photos and on Facebook at Facebook.com/Indnr.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Dan Houlihan within reach
of Seniors Open Amateur leader
Well-known Bluffton High School graduate Dr. Daniel Houlihan was just five strokes behind the leader of the Seniors Open Amateur Championship at Walton Heath in England.
The 1970 graduate, who lives in Rockford, Ill., was tied with seven other golfers at even-par 72 after Wednesday’s opening round.
American Danny Yates was the leader after a five-under-par 67. He is two shots in front of England’s Douglas Cameron, and three ahead of former Walker Cup Captain Garth McGimpsey and two-time winner Paul Simson of the USA.

Crusader football practice to begin
Norwell Middle School football practice begins Monday, Aug. 16. Practice will take place from 3-5 p.m. Players should meet at the boys’ locker room at 2:30. Players are encouraged to bring water jugs. All players must have a physical exam form on file in order to practice.

Bluffton seeking adult workers
The Bluffton Athletic Department is seeking adult workers for the upcoming fall sports season. Paid positions would include: volleyball line judges, scoreboard operators and ticket sellers. Please respond to Steve Thompson, sthompson@bhsmd.k12.in.us or call the high school at 824-3724.

MAC extends tournament contract
CLEVELAND (AP) — The Mid-American Conference extended its contract to hold its basketball tournaments at Quicken Loans Arena for another six years.
The men’s and women’s tourneys will be at the Q at least through 2017. The MAC has held its conference tournaments in Cleveland since 2000. The previous contract was set to expire following the 2011 tournament.
Commissioner Jon Steinbrecher said the MAC is pleased to be staying in Cleveland.
The tournament is scheduled from March 9-12.
Ohio won last season’s MAC tourney title and Bowling Green won the women’s as both schools earned automatic bids to the NCAA tournament.

BLUFFTON ATHLETIC BOOSTERS FALL KICK OFF

FROM 5-7PM ON FRIDAY AUGUST 20TH AT FRED PARK FIELD BEFORE THE NORTHFIELD GAME. BLUFFTON ATHLETIC BOOSTERS WILL HOST A FALL KICK OFF PARTY. INCLUDING A HOG ROAST WITH SIDES, MOONWALK , AND GAMES. ALL TIGER FANS ARE WELCOME. COME AND ENJOY FOOD, FUN TIMES, AND SHOW YOUR TIGER PRIDE. DONATIONS ACCEPTED.

(submitted)

Fly to DNR amphitheater at State Fair

Indiana DNR Release:


Two often-misunderstood flyers of Indiana’s skies will be featured at the DNR’s Amphitheater Wednesday at the State Fair in Indianapolis, adjacent to the Natural Resources Building.
“Indiana’s Bats: Myth and Reality” will be offered at 1 p.m. At 4:30 p.m., attendees will get to spend “An Evening with a Red-Tailed Hawk.”

The fun continues at the amphitheater Thursday with the always-popular Take Flight Live Raptor Show at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday. On Friday, watch for “Indiana Birds of Prey,” featuring live raptors from Hardy Lake Raptor Center, which hits the stage at the amphitheater

As with all DNR activities at the State Fair, these shows are free upon entry into the fairgrounds.

The activities at the DNR Amphitheater and the adjacent Kids Fishin’ Pond are sponsored by Citizens Energy.

Inside the air-conditioned Natural Resources Building, guests can view fish in aquariums, learn about various DNR programs, pick up free copies of the latest Recreation Guide and many other informational brochures, subscribe to Outdoor Indiana magazine at a State Fair special deal, ask questions of DNR experts, visit Mother Nature’s Mercantile to purchase unique outdoors-based items, and much more.

The complete schedule of DNR activities at the State Fair can be viewed at dnr.IN.gov and clicking on the “Learn More” link. Follow DNR activities at the State Fair at the DNR's State Fair blog and photos and on Facebook at Facebook.com/Indnr.

Wabashiki Fish and Wildlife Area opens Aug. 15

Indiana DNR Release:

Wabashiki Fish and Wildlife Area, a new Division of Fish and Wildlife property being developed near Terre Haute, will open to the public Sunday, Aug. 15.

The current site encompasses 2,400 acres along the west bank of the Wabash River between Terre Haute and West Terre Haute.

Earlier this summer, Gov. Mitch Daniels announced an initiative to expand Wabashiki by acquiring 43,000 acres of floodplain land along a 94-mile river corridor from Shades State Park in Montgomery County to Fairbanks Landing Fish and Wildlife Area south of Terre Haute.

All types of legal hunting will be permitted in Wabashiki but the most plentiful species are deer, waterfowl, woodcock, squirrel, turkey and furbearers. Hunters must sign in at the self-service check station located on the south side of US 40 in West Terre Haute, which has a kiosk showing a property map. Hunters must use non-toxic shot.

Fishing in the Wabash River and the 7-acre gravel pit on the property will be allowed. Species available include bluegill, crappie, bass and catfish. No sign-in is required for fishing.

The southern portion of the property along U.S. 40 offers excellent bird watching opportunities for many species of wetland birds.

Target shooting is prohibited, as are camping, off-road vehicle use, and swimming.

The Division of Fish and Wildlife’s partners in acquiring Wabashiki include Indiana Heritage Trust, Vigo County Parks, American Electric Power Service Corporation and The Nature Conservancy.

As with all Fish and Wildlife Areas in Indiana, there is no charge for entry. Access to Wabashiki will be primarily by the waters of the Wabash River until further facilities are developed.

For a map of the property, along with further rules and regulations, please see http://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/6188.htm

Trapping Camp planned at Salamonie Reservoir

Indiana DNR Release:

Salamonie Reservoir and the Indiana State Trappers Association (ISTA) have scheduled a free Trappers Education Course for Sept. 25-26 at the Upper Wabash Interpretive Center.

The program is for trappers of all ages, though youth trappers are encouraged to attend.

The program starts at 9 a.m. both days.

On Sept. 25, participants will receive education on trapping issues, ethics, and regulations. In the afternoon, participants will accompany trapping instructors on a trap line and set traps to be left overnight and checked the next day.

On Sept. 26, participants will accompany trapping instructors to check trap lines. ISTA instructors will demonstrate skinning and fleshing of furbearers.

Participants will not need a trapping license to attend the program. There are no fees or costs associated with the program, but participants must register in advance. Entrance fees will be waived for all participants. Free camping is available for course attendees at Lost Bridge West Youth Campground. Lunch will be provided both days.

Participants must attend both days to receive DNR trapper education certification. Participants are encouraged to bring hip waders or waterproof boots to wear on the trap line.

The registration deadline is Sept. 19.

To register in advance or get more information, call the Upper Wabash Interpretive Center at (260) 468-2127.

The Upper Wabash Interpretive Center is located in Lost Bridge West Recreation Area, Salamonie Reservoir, west of Indiana 105 in Huntington County.

Sports Round-Up by Paul Beitler

Kaylee Imel competing at U.S.
Women’s Amateur Championship
From News-Banner and Associated Press reports
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Western Michigan University sophomore Kaylee Imel was 11 strokes behind the leader after Monday’s first round of the U.S. Women’s Amateur Championship.
Imel of Bluffton, a 2009 Norwell graduate, finished the round with a 4-over-par 76. She started on the par-35 back nine and shot a 3-over-par 38. On the front nine, she finished the par-37 layout with a 1-over 38. Imel bogeyed 10, 14, 16 and 18, while sinking a birdie on the par-3, 17th hole. She bogeyed No. 1, birdied the par-4 fifth hole and bogeyed the par-4 eighth hole to conclude her 18-hole round. Overall, Imel parred 10 holes.
Rachel Rohanna, an all-Big Ten player at Ohio State, set a U.S. Women’s Amateur scoring record with a 65 during a muggy first round of stroke play.
Rohanna had nine birdies and two bogeys to finish 7-under on the 6,559-yard Charlotte Country Club course. Kellee Booth (1998), Natalie Gulbis (1999) and Amanda Blumenherst (2008) previously shared the 18-hole mark of 66.
Brooke Pancake, of Chattanooga, Tenn., finished with a 68 as conditions eased slightly with some cloud cover and a slight breeze in the afternoon.
Girls’ junior champion Doris Chen of Bradenton, Fla., and Jaclyn Sweeney, a senior at Arizona State from Andover, Mass., were at 3-under on a day in which the heat index neared triple digits.
Sixty-four of 156 players will advance to match play after a second day of stroke play Tuesday in this U.S. Golf Association event, concluding with a 36-hole final on Sunday.

Bluffton MS football to begin
The first practice for Bluffton’s 7th- and 8th-grade football teams will be Friday, Aug. 13, at 3 p.m. Equipment will be issued at that time. Students must have a completed physical form on file in the school office in order to practice.

NMS boys’ cross country to start
The Norwell Middle School boys’ cross country team will have practice Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 7-8 p.m. All interested runners should meet at the track. Students must have a completed physical form on file in the school office in order to practice.

Norwell spikers to hold carwash
The Norwell volleyball team car wash is Saturday, Aug. 14, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Mike Anderson Chevrolet in Ossian. Free will donations will be accepted.