If you have been reading my recurring column for a while, you might recall that I’ve mentioned J. R. Barager before. “J. R.” was editor and publisher of the Owen Enterprise from 1955 until he died in 1976. One of my favorite reads in that weekly print newspaper was J. R.’s recurring column called “Just Glancing Around.” It was an interesting, mostly lighthearted, column that was a blend of news, history, editorial and humor. Reading his column, one always walked away feeling like you learned something new. I’m no J. R., and my recurring column is not a news column, but I do like to glance around Owen-Withee’s current events and history.
I’m devoting this week’s column to a random look at what’s happening in the world of Owen-Withee 2025 current events and history. Today’s current events are tomorrow’s history. Stories and activities that are today’s “news” are the stories the future will be reading when they look back on history.
On today’s 2025 docket…
• The Owen-Withee Area Historical Society will soon be starting its 4th year of existence. Founded in 2022, and of which I’m president, the local nonprofit public charity, is devoted to preserving and educating about Owen-Withee history. Consider joining us.
• The City of Owen is celebrating its 100th anniversary since becoming incorporated in 1925 as a “city.”
• Art Petersen has been named as the 2025 Owen-Withee Golden Blackhawk award winner. An annual lifetime achievement award sponsored by the Owen-Withee Area Historical Society.
• The Owen-Withee High School Class of 1975 is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025, since its graduation.
• The Owen-Withee Area Historical Society Newsletter published its inaugural “Volume 1 Number 1” issue in January 2025. Reach out to Allan Hodnett or Tim Nolan if you are interested in joining or getting involved with the Historical Society.
• The annual Owen-Withee Business Expo is scheduled for April 5, 2025 in Owen, Wisconsin. Always a fun event to meet and greet and check out some of the local businesses.
• The Owen-Withee Area Historical Society Museum is seeking more room for its growing collection of local area historical artifacts. Any suggestions or ideas? We have a great home at the former Owen City Hall, but we are severely short of space, with a large collection in cramped quarters.
Thank you, readers and fans, for your generous support and assistance toward preserving history and sharing your stories