Opinions Letters to Editor 29 September 2026

Mowrystown family shares exciting news

To the editor,

Though my wife and I have spent the last 20 years serving on active duty in the U.S. Army, my roots will always be in Brown County. Growing up in the Sardinia, Mowrystown area and graduating from Whiteoak High School taught me the value of community, and that hometown pride stays with you no matter where the military takes you.

Today, I’m reaching out to share some exciting news with the community that raised me: our daughter, Karalena, has reached the Top 5 nationwide in the 2026 national "Baby of the Year" competition, presented by Jessica Alba and The Honest Company.

Out of thousands of entries across the country, Karalens journey is not only highlighting our family’s home state pride, but it is also helping support Baby2Baby, a national nonprofit providing essential everyday items to children in need. The grand prize includes $25,000, a featured spot in Variety magazine, and an ad campaign with The Honest Company.

We are hoping the Brown County community might be interested in following Kara’s story and rallying behind one of their own as voting continues. It takes a village, and even from afar, we would love to bring this national milestone home to Sardinia, Mowrystown, and Whiteoak.

Sincerely,
Shawn Burns
Whiteoak High School Class of 2005
First Sergeant, U.S. Army

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Mowrystown
Ohio