TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — This year was filled with great news for our area.
A singing janitor won America’s hearts and the Indiana State University men’s basketball team stole the show. Our viewers took note of new laws and a new drink. And sadly, tragedy struck the community as well.
Richard Goodall, the singing Janitor wins America’s Got Talent
Goodall’s story, and his pipes, were undeniable this year. Singer Walker Hayes celebrated him and gave him a car. And that was before he made it to the finals of the competition. As the local janitor advanced he never stopped being grateful or giving back to his community. Below you can find a few of the highlights of Goodall’s amazing year.
Illinois drink causes a stir
Indiana and Illinois are neighboring states but their laws aren’t always neighborly. Marijuana has become legal in Illinois but remains illegal inside the Hoosier state. The differences even come down to drinks. A “euphoric seltzer” New Brew, is banned in Indiana, but selling in Illinois.
This story garnered a lot of interest among our readers and viewers.
Speaking of the topic, many of you are interested in new laws in Illinois.
ISU Men’s Baskeball nearly takes NIT Crown
The Sycamores had the most magical year in school history since Larry Bird was a member of the team. That was no small feat in and of itself. Ultimately, they were only one three-pointer away from being NIT champs. That bucket never came, but the great memories remain.
Community Mourns
Sadly, 2024 brought heartbreak to our area.
Kenny and Devona Ming of Sullivan County were killed in a motorcycle accident in July. Kenny was a paramedic and in their off hours, the couple frequently spent their time trying to help others.
“Everything that they did was never for them, it was for everybody else, like soccer or any of the other organizations they were in,” Lauren Ming, one of the couple’s daughters said. “They were always giving back and never took anything.”
Community mourns the loss of longtime paramedic and wife | MyWabashValley.com
Woman, son killed in double murder
In October, a woman and her son were killed and buried in a shallow grave at Bear Run Mine, police said.
Greene County deputies found Samantha Jerrell and her son Colton after 35-year-old Joshua Penick gave directions to the location to his father who later gave them to investigators, court records state.
Witnesses said Penick, who is now charged with murder in the case, had previously been violent with the family. Penick is in jail awaiting an April 15, 2025 jury trial.
Documents: Greene County man charged in double murder
