Capsule Reports - Friday, May 23, 2025

Club fire

A fire caused heavy damage to Jay County Conservation Club on Wednesday.

Jay County Sheriff’s Office received a call at 10:09 a.m. about a fire at the clubhouse, 6243 S. 325 West, Portland.

Sixteen Portland firefighters and two Portland firetrucks arrived on scene, with firefighters from Redkey and Ridgeville fire departments also responding to fight the flames. Responders extinguished the fire in less than two hours.

Severe fire damage could be seen throughout the interior of the structure, as well as damage to the roof. 

Officials believe the fire started in the southwest corner of the building and spread throughout structure. The cause of the fire is undetermined.

Jay County Conservation Club’s 80th anniversary celebration is still set for noon to 10 p.m. Saturday at Hudson Family Park. 

The event will feature artisan vendors starting at noon, along with family activities and food trucks around 5 p.m. and a floating lantern ceremony starting at 9 p.m.

Recycling set

Jay County Solid Waste Management District will have recycling trailers Saturday. Trailers will be open from 9 a.m. to noon in the shopping center at 220 Lincoln St., Portland, and Dunkirk City Park.