Ottumwa Courier Week 3

Julian Quintana, left, and Chayton Gates play with blocks Monday at Seton Catholic School. The school is celebrating National Catholic Schools Week and kicked off the activities with a pajama party movie day for the students and teachers. This annual celebration is used to highlight Catholic values in education and the community. 

Mrs. Carson’s kindergarden class, along with first and second graders, gather to watch a movie Monday at Seton Catholic School during the National Catholic Schools Week celebration. Carson said this week is a great way to strengthen the Catholic community and bring people together to share in knowledge and faith. 

Robert “Gene” Pilcher, center, listens to Judge Richard Meadows declare a mistrial in his murder case Thursday at the Wapello County Courthouse. Pilcher is being charged with the first-degree murder of Mary Jayne Jones in 1974. 

Tina Higdon, a family friend of Mary Jayne Jones, listens to the conclusion of the Robert “Gene” Pilcher murder trial Thursday at the Wapello County Courthouse. The 12-member jury was unable to reach a verdict and a mistrial was declared. 

Senior swimmer Grant Gullion swims for the Bulldogs boys swimming team during the 100-yard butterfly. 

The Ottumwa boys swim team huddle together before taking the pool for senior night.