Torchbearers: Friday, Sept. 16

The Indiana Bicentennial Torch Relay will pass through Putnam County from 5-8 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 22.

Featured in this edition of the Banner Graphic are three of 21 torchbearers for Putnam County.

Drew Christy

Drew excelled academically and athletically and was involved in service and philanthropy. He was chosen to be a Putnam County Lilly Endowment Community Scholar and attended Rose Hulman Institute of Technology where he maintained a 3.92 GPA.

Tragedy struck one icy night in February 2008. Following a vehicle accident, Drew lay in a coma for five months with traumatic brain injury and many other grave complications.

Drew has miles to go with his recovery but has made miraculous progress with encouragement and help from family and friends.

Drew Christy, with help from dad Mark, will continue carrying the torch from the People Pathway in Fillmore along County Road 550 East/Main Street, Fillmore.

Alan Jones

Alan has been the “unofficial mayor” of Fillmore for years. He donated his paycheck from the Town Board for years toward purchasing whatever wass needed to better the town.

He fixed roads, signs, planted trees, helped needy families and continues to help others to this day.

Alan is part of a crew of retirees who have worked tirelessly to maintain and beautify their small town.

Alan Jones will obtain the torch at the Fillmore Fire Station and continue the route north to County Road 150 North.

Beth Tharp

Beth is active in the community. She serves on the Greencastle/Putnam County Economic Development Board representing agriculture, is the service project coordinator for Bethel Baptist Church, and was recognized as USDA Champion of Change for US Agriculture.

She is also the co-owner and operater of Legan Livestock and Grain, along with husband Nick and parents Mark and Phillys Legan.

Traveling on horseback, Beth Tharp will continue along the bicentennial route from Fillmore to the Heritage Lake area.