Last week several local torchbearers had the honor of carrying the bicentennial torch as it passed through Marshall County.
Four of the individuals selected had direct ties to the Plymouth Community School Corporation: teacher Betsy Bowen; Cameron Riddle, a PHS freshman; Garrett Garver, a PHS senior; and Plymouth High School retired teacher Allen Shockney.
Betsy Bowen, a fourth grade teacher at Jefferson Elementary carried the torch in honor of her grandfather, Otis Ray Bowen (February 26, 1918 – May 4, 2013). She said, “He was a two-time governor of Indiana in the 70’s, he also was the Secretary of Health and Human Services in the 80’s and even more, he was the best grandpa to ever live.”
Cameron Riddle, a 14-year-old freshman at Plymouth High School, started his historic journey at the Marshall County Historical Museum. Riddle said, “I was excited for the opportunity because Indiana is only 200 years old once and this is a great honor.” He said he was nominated for his community service and activities he is involved with such as the Boy Scouts, 4H, and the Marshall County Running Club, a non-profit club he helped start.
Garrett Garver, a 17-year-old Plymouth High School senior carried the torch from Fellke Florist to Webster School. He said last year several people suggested he submit an essay on the topic of “What does it mean to be a Hoosier” and was selected as the Plymouth High School representative.
Allen Shockney, a retired Plymouth High School History teacher (Aug. 1966 to May 2006) had the honor of carrying the Bicentennial Torch from the courthouse ceremony to the museum.
