The Paper of Wabash County - Feb. 1, 2023

Races develop in municipal elections

1 race set for Primary; 2 are in General Election

By Joseph Slacian jslacian@thepaperofwabash.com

Races are shaping up in the 2023 Municipal Elections. One of the races will be decided in the May 2 Primary Election, while two others will be decided in the Nov. 7 General Election.

Republican Heather Allen filed paperwork to seek the party’s nomination for the Wabash City Council’s Third District seat. She will face Republican incumbent Terry Brewer in the Primary.

Meanwhile, Republican Melanie Penn is seeking the Wabash ClerkTreasurer position now held by Democrat incumbent Wendy Frazier, who previously filed for the position. Unless someone else files for that position to force a vote in the primary, that race will be determined in November.

Another race to be decided in November is that of the City Council’s Fourth District seat.

Republican Tim Nelson filed for the position on Friday. Democrat Chad Harris filed for the seat on Jan. 4. The position is now held by Republican Susan Bonfitto.

In another City Council position, Republican incumbent Bryan Dillon filed for re-election to the council’s at-large seat.

City Court Judge Tim Roberts has filed for re-election. He is a Republican.

In North Manchester, Democrat incumbent Allen Miracle filed for re-election to the Town Council’s Fourth District seat. Meanwhile, Republican Chalmer “Toby” Tobias III filed for the council’s First District seat.

In Lagro, Republican Tami Gibson filed for the Town Council.

In LaFontaine, Jay Gillespie and Lori Brane, both Republicans, filed for re-election to the Town Council.

The deadline to file for the May Primary Election is noon Friday, Feb. 3.

Bechtolds named Farm Family of the Year

Honor to be given during annual dinner March 8

Grow Wabash County and the Salute to Ag committee is thrilled to announce that the Bechtold family will hold the title of the 2022 Farm Family of the Year.

The Bechtold family will be recognized for their incredible impact on the Wabash County agriculture industry during Grow Wabash County’s annual Salute to Ag Dinner on Wednesday, March 8, 2023.

Wabash resident earns gold records

By Joseph Slacian jslacian@thepaperofwabash.com

The global pandemic has caused a lot of hardship for some people.

For Cade Wolter, it brought some joy and much success.

It was during Covid that he met his fiance, former North Manchester resident Taylor Byers, while the pair was living in Los Angeles.

It was also during the pandemic that Wolter, who represents various song writers and producers, received two gold records for albums he was associated with.

“I’ve been doing that for 12 years, but full-time for eight,” he said of his management work.

It was also during Covid that the couple decided to move to Indiana.

“I was already working from a home office, so it didn’t matter where that home office was,” Wolter said. “We wanted to invest

in land near our families, so we got a house here in Wabash. Most of her family still lives in the area, or Fort Wayne. We can be anywhere we want to be, and we love to be near family, so we’ve been here for a while.”

Ironically, one of the gold records he has received is related to the pandemic. That album, Elton John’s “The Lockdown Sessions,” was recorded in 2020 and 2021, and released in the U.S. and the United Kingdom in 2021.

“He did a whole collaboration record with other artists,” Wolter said. “He wanted to work with all these different people and do all these different genres.”

Artists on the album include Eddie Vedder, Nicki Minaj, Stevie Nicks and Little Nas X.

The song, “Beauty in the Bones,” was written by Jimmy Allen, whom Wolter represents. It was performed Cont. on Pg. 2.

The Bechtold Family has operated its farm in Wabash County for over 100 years, starting with Ray Bechtold in 1918. The farm was then taken over by his son Duane Bechtold in 1936 and control of the farm has passed through each Bechtold generation from Bob to Bret who currently runs the farm with the help of his sons Austin and Trent Bechtold.

Over the last century-plus, the Bechtold’s farm has produced corn, soybeans, wheat and hay as well as raising cattle and sheep.

“Every year we at Grow Wabash County have the honor of recognizing the people and families in our communities that have and continue to make a great impact on local agriculture,” Keith Gillenwater, president and CEO of Grow Wabash County, said. “This year we are thrilled to be celebrating the Bechtold Family who has established an incredible legacy here in Wabash County as an example of why family farms like theirs remain an integral piece of the agricultural community both local and at large.” Ag Committee chair Howard Halderman said, “Grow Wabash County is proud to honor and recognize Bechtold Farms and the Bechtold family as our 2022 Farm Family of the Year

“Our goal is to recognize one of Wabash County’s farm families who set a great example for our industry which feeds the world, protects the environment and Cont. on Pg. 2.

Cade Wolter shows the gold record he received for his work on KSI’s album, “All Over the Place.” Photo provided

Gold records

by Allen and John.

“The album went No.1 in the UK and sold 100,000 copies, which is gold certified in the UK,” Wolter said.

The other gold record is for the album, “All Over the Place,” by rapper KSI.

“He’s really big on YouTube and the social media influencer world,” Wolter said. “That album also went number one in the UK and sold 100,000 copies.

“There’s different sales marks for different countries. In the UK it’s 100,000, then the label will certify it.”

Wolter represented three different writers on the two albums.

“I worked with them on it,” he said. “I coordinated the deals, and contracts, and pitching the songs to the artists. I have very

...continued from Page 1

distinct memories of being on phone calls for both of these projects in our little farmhouse in Wabash.

“It’s been really fun to get to bring some of that here.”

A native of the San Francisco area, Wolter began touring with a band when he was 17.

The band was touring across much of the west, from Idaho, Washington and Oregon to California and Arizona and Nevada. While with the band, he began working to manage it.

“No one wants to talk to a 17-year-old singer in a band,” he said, “So I made up a management company. I bought a domain and an email. I’d say, ‘This is Cade and I represent these guys …”

When the band broke up, several people asked if he

would be interested in managing others.

His first client was two artists who go by the name Foolish Ways.

“We used to tour together, so we’ve grown up in the industry together,” he said. “I was doing the managing thing. I ran a little venue in the Bay area, booking the shows, running staff. I worked at a tech company building out their music vertical.

“Then I ran a night club in San Francisco, again booking the artists and running the marketing. Right around that time was when I started getting good at managing, so then I started going to L.A. once a month.

“Then I moved to L.A. in 2014 and I’ve been doing this ever since.”

Trickle receives degree from Alabama

North Manchester resident Spence Trickle has received a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from the

University of Alabama. He received the degree during the school’s fall commencement ceremony on Dec. 10.

Trickle was one of 1,650 students to receive a degree during the commencement ceremony.

...continued from Page 1

makes the world a better place. Across multiple generations and diverse cropping and livestock enterprises the Bechtolds remain an excellent, sustainable farm operation while contributing to their community in a wide variety of ways.”

The 2023 Salute to Ag Dinner will take place on Wednesday, March 8 starting at 6:30 p.m. at the

Heartland REMC building, 350 Wedcor Avenue in Wabash.

Tickets are $25 each and sponsorship opportunities are available ranging from $100 to $2,500 Platinum Sponsorship. Registration can be done online at www.growwabashcounty.com/ag2023 or by contacting Grow Wabash County via email, info@growwabashcounty.com, or by calling 260-563-5258.

Wolter shows off the award he received from the Elton John album. Photo provided

Rubble removed from former GDX site

By Joseph Slacian jslacian@thepaperofwabash.com

The former site of the GDX plant on Stitt Street looks totally different today.

Council orders clerk, judge to have meeting

By Joseph Slacian jslacian@thepaperofwabash.com

The Wabash City Council instructed City Court Judge

Tim Roberts and Clerk-Treasurer

Wendy Frazier to meet face-to-face to iron out discrepancies in promoting a part-time employee to full-time.

The action came after the council declined to act on an additional appropriation for the transition.

Roberts is seeking to promote Jana Slacian from her current parttime position to that of full-time. The move comes after another parttime clerk resigned last year.

The additional appropriation of $28,614.18 is needed for salary, insurance, FICA, and the Public Employee Retirement Fund. Under the measure as it stood, Slacian’s new salary would be $35,035. However, Roberts believes it should be equal to other employees in similar positions in the city.

“Where did that figure come from,” Roberts asked Frazier during discussion on the resolution.

Frazier said she took Slacian’s cur-

rent salary and adapted it to a fulltime position, “as you requested.”

Mayor Scott Long told Roberts that the salary figure was what the judge had agreed to during budget hearings last year.

Roberts agreed, but noted, “that was when they were part-time. I asked that Jana become full-time.

The full-time salary for everyone in this building that works the same kind of job that Jana does is $44,500.”

However, Long said that isn’t the case for new employees. They start out at a lower salary and, over time, are brought up to an equal level.

“As they gained additional responsibilities, we moved their salary up,” he said.

Roberts countered, “She’s worked here 10 years; she’s not a new employee. It’s a new position.”

Council member Bryon Dillon, following the recommendation of City Attorney Doug Lehman, made the motion for Roberts and Frazier to meet. The council passed the motion 6-0. Council member Susan Bonfitto was absent.

In another mat-

ter, Alex Downard presented a brief discussion on the Imagine One85 project to the council.

Imagine One85 is a program designed to find ways of stemming the population loss Wabash County has experienced in recent years.

Downard has made similary presentations to town boards around the county.

He also presented the city with copies of the formal report and the recomendations it contained.

———

Editor’s Note: In an effort of full transparency, it must be noted that Editor Joseph Slacian’s daughter is Jana Slacian, whose position is being discussed by the City Council.

The site underwent extensive clearing recently.

“We had a contract for aboveground cleanup of construction debris that remained after they tore the buildings down,” Mayor Scott Long said.

The work was done by Blue River Environmental in just under one month.

“They completed (the clean-up),” he continued. “They boarded up the former engineering building in anticipation of redeveloping that and saving that building.”

More than 12,000 tons of debris was removed from the location.

The site is one of three locations the city is seeking to

create a housing development for both single family and multi-family dwellings.

The 30 acre location was used as a manufacturing area for more than 100 years. General Tire began using the site in 1936 and remained there until the company closed the site in 2007.

After the factory closed, One

General Street LLC purchased the site, removed any scrap metal it could and eventually demolished the buildings. The site has been untouched for more than a decade.

Before any housing development can take place, the site must be cleared of any contaminants left from the GDX days.

Former owners

is responsible for at least some of the clean-up.

The city is currently in mediation over the cleanup, Long said, and declined to comment further because of that.

Alex Downard discusses the Imagine One85 project with the Wabash City Council.

Photo by Joseph Slacian

Southwood announces Q2 honor roll

Officials at Southwood Jr.-Sr.

High School recently announced honor roll lists for the second quarter of the 2022-2023 school year.

‘All A’ Honor Roll

Grade 6: Lillian

Barney, Braylon Bassett, Myla

Bowman, Sophia

Cline, Allie Collins, Logan Combs, Alyvia Frieden, Lucas GaylourdDrown, Lyla

Guthrie, Delaney

Hamilton, Joel

Hartline, Harleigh

Hiner, Dylan Hurst, Kameron Johnson, Parrish Kaehr, Alyson Kelley, Jensen Kroft, Rowyn Mealy, Makayla Miller, Dylan Powell, Grace Ranck, Lucas Rose, Courtney Sesco, Brooklynn

Strickler, Elin

Tyson, Karstynn

Updike, Taylor

Vanderpool, Khyla

Wood, Avery Wright

Grade 7: Adeline

Boone, David Bowyer, Caidence

Milliner, Ryleigh

Pulley, Eli Shellhamer, Stratten Whiteman

Grade 8: Josiah

Chellis, Adilyn

Deaton, Brooke

Farr, Avery

Henderson, Makenna Hunter, Presley Kroft, Olivia Ranck, Shania Rhamy, Jalayna Robberts, Bailee Strickler, Shelby Thomas, Nika Tyson, Kierstyn Wyatt

Grade 9: Hailey

Collins, Coan

Holloway, Emily

Lochard, Malia

Mahan, Victor

Mondragon, Ivan

Ranck, Sophia

Temple

Grade 10: Quinn

Claussen, Grace Drake, Rowan

Goodpasture, Luke

Herring, Lucy

Vandermark, Ian

Vanderpool

Grade 11: Emma

Adams, Randall

Boone, Carrie

Collins, Abigail

Guyer, Libee Price, Sarah Smith, Shyanne Stout, Carley Whitesel

Grade 12: Elise

Adams, Kaelyn

Ranck

‘A/B’ Honor

Roll

Grade 6: Blake

Ashba, Grady

Dillon, Trae’den

Gill, Taylor

Haecker, Karston

Hayslett, Reilynn

Jones, Avery

Lovatto, Cade

Pershing, Karsen

Richards, Remi

Rigney, Khloe

Seacott, Isabella

Short, Makenzie

Wilson

Grade 7: Clara

Campbell, Zander

Chellis, Jericho

Corn, Ella

Cunningham, Kaley Denney, Trevor Dickerhoff, Alexis Eberle, Blake Enyeart, Elleigh Eppard, Helen Flores, Canydee Floyd, Alec Getz, Ava

Goodpasture, Conor Height, Blake Henderson, Giselle Luis-

Jimenez, Rya

Morgan, Paige

Nelson, Bailey

Petro, Brock

Shambarger, Ella

Smith, Camden

Wyatt

Grade 8: Ross

Andrews, Ashton

Dague, Cameron

Drown, Kara

Freeman, Caden

Guthrie, Katelyn

Johnson, Elexis

Kelley, Justyne

Kirkpatrick, Alexa

Lloyd, Addison

Lovatto, Gracie

Mosley, Hali

Pershing, Elias

Poe, Hunter

Rasmussen, Amaya

Scheurich, Hayven

Schipper, Aiden

Selig, Taylor

Shenefield, Bella

Stoltz, Gavin Stout, Reagan Striker, James Unger, Lola Winer Andrew

Wright

Grade 9: Colleen

Boardman, Ainsley

Chellis, Naomi

Davis, Mylah

Dillon, Cooper

Drake, Owen

Enyeart, Brody

Height, Danika

Holbrook, Ashlynn

Lambert, Adreonna

Lovell, Ryan

Nelson, Dakota

Schipper, Logan

Shellhamer, Wyatt

Smith, Olivia Snow, Natalie Sutphin

Grade 10: Luke

Andrews, Elijah

Boone, Jaiya Corn,

Zoey Gaylourd, Averi Haecker, Daedric Kaehr, Isabella Knote, Gabriel Mealy, Keaton Metzger, Morgan Powell, Makenna Snow, Duke Sparks, Rylee Thomas, Ryley

Wilcox, Katelyn

Willcox, Kayne

Zahler

Grade 11: Macy

Barney, Baleigh Black, Liliauna

Combs, MadisAnne Culver, Derek

Deeter, Grace

Denney, Jaret

Denney, Allie Haecker, Jordan

Hart, Logan Hiner, Ethan Lochard, Kendall Sarll, Micah Smith, Izabielle Wagoner, Will Winer, Caleb

Wyatt

Grade 12: Alice

Guyer, Zebadiah

Herring, Bryn

Mealy, Meredith

Norman, Kyle

Smith, Dylan Stout, Aleia Sweet, Dakota Wilson, Alaina Winer, Cole Winer, Makenna Younce

Hospital adds parking lot next to walking trail

Wabash-area residents who use the trail and picnic shelter on the Parkview Wabash Hospital campus can now take advantage of a convenient parking lot.

A lot with spaces for four vehicles has been added next to the pavilion and the paved trail that encircles the seven-acre pond on the south part of campus. Two of the spaces are designated as handicapped parking.

“We’re so pleased we could add this parking lot thanks to the generosity of foundation donors,” said Deb Potempa, president, Parkview Wabash Hospital. “It’s a great way to encourage more people to come to campus to get some fresh air, gather with friends and work toward greater wellness.”

Previously, shelter and trail users tended to park along the side of John Kissinger Drive. The lot will now enable them to avoid having to walk out into the road.

The lot has been poured and striped for temporary use, but it will be finished this spring with a final coat of blacktop, new stripes and landscaping.

Potempa anticipates the hospital will host a ribboncutting in the spring, but said she wants the community to be aware that the lot is already available

Pain management doctor offers new options

Chronic pain can take over a person’s life, preventing them from participating in activities they enjoy and even from taking care of basic, routine tasks. When pain is significant, it takes a specialist to help manage it so the individual can lead a more normal life.

for use.

“With the unpredictable ups and downs in winter weather, there may be more than a few days when the temperatures are mild enough to allow people to get out and exercise,” she said. “Even if they don’t live within walking distance of the hospital, now they can take a short drive and park next to the pavilion and trail.”

That was the original goal when the trail was first created. In late 2017, as the new hospital was being built, the Parkview Wabash Foundation launched a special effort to raise funds

for a half-mile path. At that time, the City of Wabash was working to expand the Wabash Walking Trail to connect downtown to the north side.

The foundation’s board members felt a paved path would grow this community initiative while enabling residents to boost their physical activity.

The path was also intended to provide patients, family members and coworkers with a place where they could take a break outdoors. To further encourage use of the path, the foundation board decided to add a pavilion and picnic tables.

Zachary Biehl, MD, Parkview Physicians Group –Pain Management, is helping patients find relief so they can function better, and a new procedure could make a real difference for patients who have ongoing pain and a history of prior back or neck surgeries, or nerve pain in their legs or arms.

Biehl can now implant a spinal cord stimulator, which interrupts pain impulses between the brain and the body, at Parkview Wabash Hospital.

“This is a lifechanging treatment modality that allows us to reduce reliance on opioids, which can have their own unwanted side effects and

may not necessarily be fully effective,” he said.

In addition to spinal cord stimulators, Biehl provides other pain management treatments, such as steroid injections, ultrasound-guided injections and nerve ablation, a minimally invasive procedure to remove sensation from a painful nerve.

Biehl came to this area from Milwaukee, Wis., where he received his fellowship training in pain management. He completed an anesthesia residency through the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee, serving as chief resident in his final year.

Biehl earned his medical degree from the Indiana University (IU)

School of Medicine

in Bloomington, Indiana, after receiving his bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and graduating summa cum laude from IU.

During medical school, he served as a research assistant at the IU School of Medicine, working in the Immunology department. He received the Midwestern Alliance for

Healthcare Education Research Symposium Award that year.

He is a member of the American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, the American Society of Anesthesiologists, the Wisconsin Society of Anesthesiologists, and the American Medical Association.

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A car is parked in the new parkling lot next to the Parkview Wabash Hospital walking trail. Photo provided

The tradition continues: Last week’s snowfall enabled Lakin (left) and Danika Landis continue a family tradition, building giant snowmen. Lakin, 7, and Danika, 10, show off their most recent creation at their home on the north side of Wabash. Many may remember their creations from past years when the family lived on North Miami Street. Photo provided

Waypoint begins search for new director

The Waypoint Wabash Board is starting the search for their new executive director. Their current executive director, Marilyn CusterMitchell will be, as planned, ending her tenure as the organization’s first executive director, this summer. The board is incredibly thankful for all of the work Marilyn has done to make

the launch of Waypoint Wabash a reality. “Marilyn’s leadership has been instrumental in making Waypoint successful in its first year of operations”, said Waypoint Board Chairman Jay Driskill. The launch of Waypoint is due to years of work that started with the Wabash County Drug

Our House Real Estate ribbon cutting planned

Grow Wabash County invites the Wabash County community to join them in offering a warm welcome to Our House Real Estate at their newest location in downtown Wabash.

Our House Real Estate was opened by Teresa Bakehorn, a North Manchester and Wabash County native. Bakehorn has been involved in real estate for over 30 years and has expanded her company and team to specialize in a variety of real estate transactions including residential, commercial and leasing.

“Our House decided to open an office in Wabash downtown for many reasons but the most important reason was to support our Wabash County clientele by supporting their local economy,” Bakehorn said. “Katie Pratt has been our Wabash County rep for many years now and we also felt it

Steering Committee, on which Marilyn has served since 2016. Upon Marilyn completing her service as executive director, she will return to serving as a Waypoint board member.

Waypoint exists to provide a safe, structured, and stable environment for people recovering from

substance use and disorder and its mission is to serve as a waypoint between chaos and living free in safety and structure. Waypoint Wabash is located at 189 N. Wabash St. and opened its doors in fall 2022 after extensive remodeling to the historic house.

A job description is at waypointwabash.com.

was important to support her in growing in the community that she has lived in her entire life.”

Not only does Bakehorn and her team seek to make the home-selling process easy, but they are also passionate about helping homebuyers navigate the sometimes confusing world of home ownership.

“As more people look to move to Wabash County and more businesses consider relocating to our communities, it is imperative that we have great realtors in

our community to help these people find the perfect place for them,” Keith Gillenwater, president and CEO of Grow Wabash County, said. “We are excited to welcome the Our House Real Estate team to the network of excellent realtors and real estate companies that are doing great work every day to help Wabash County grow and prosper.”

The ribbon cutting ceremony will start at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 22, at Our House Real Estate’s new office, 92 W. Canal St.

ECHO Drag Racings ends season

ECHO Drag Racing has concluded for this year. The last drag race event was on Jan. 21.

The points are very tight between classes. This is the first time in 13 years we have a tie for first place in both A & B classes. During the drag races, the ECHO Top Eliminators just kept trading points. A-Class point leader would win then lose, then another A-Class Driver would do the same. Other ECHO Challengers had a mind set to make it tough for the point leaders. They made it very hard for them to stay out in front with the points lead. The other ECHO Drivers are battling and collecting points, making it very close for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place in both classes.

The winners of the last ECHO Drag Races are as follows: A-Class win-

ner was Kaedence. She drove her Funny Car with great precision to take Top Eliminator. Next AClass winner was Bentley. He drove his Funny Car with determination and drove to a 2nd place win. First time winner in A-Class was Oliver. He was able to cut the green light on the Christmas Tree with tremendous focusing to bring home 3rd Place. BClass winner was Tucker. He was driving his Funny Car with a wanting to win and was able to take Top Eliminator and the points lead. B-Class

winner was Hudsyn. First time driver, he was so focused on the Christmas Tree Lights and he cut the light spot on to win 2nd Place. BClass winner was Bristen. she outdrove the competition with her Funny Car to bring home 3rd Place.

On the next ECHO Racing Schedule, the races will be held on February 4 & 18, 2023. This activity is open to all youth in and around Wabash County. This is a free activity to all. The races are held at the Urbana Loin/Community building and starts at 2pm. The ECHO Track Officials would like to congratulate all of the winners of ECHO Racing. Remember, We Are, ECHO Racing.

Urbana Yoke Parish Church: Feb. 4 has been set as the annual Sausage Day.

Sausage may be pick up at the church parking lot from 9am-1pm. The church will be selling one pound bulk packages for $5 and 5-pound box of patties for $25. All sausage will be lightly seasoned. If you would like to help offset the expanse of the hogs and proessing you may mail donations to the church at P.O. Box 8, Urbana, IN 46990. If you would like to pre-order your sausage you may call Karen Bechtold at 260-578-8835.

Blood Drive: Urbana Yoke Parish Church will be holding a blood drive February 15, 2023. The Outreach Committee plans and directs this much needed activity. This activity will be held at the Urbana Lions/Community building from 1:30 –6 pm. American Red Cross asks people to help with this cause. If you

can donate, please do so. You can go on line to the American Red Cross site and Google blood drive for locations and to donate. You can also call 800-7332767 or visit redcrossblood.org and enter: urbanalion to make your appointment for Urbana location. Blood is in short supply; blood donors of all types are needed to replenish the shortage.

This blood is a major life saving item that hospitals

and emergency room personnel use every day. If you are able to give please do so often.

Prayer concerns: Joe Adams, Marilyn Karns, Julie Miller, John Eltzroth, Alma DeVore, Phyllis Baker, Ron Baer, Duane Wagner, Kim and Brian Frank, Nancy Christie, Ruth Summers, Paxton Wright, Jim and Pat Hartley, Coy Eads and his parents and sisters, Joni Fox, our Nation and the leaders, our mili-

tary personnel, our frontline responders.

The Breakfast Bunch met at the Fried Egg on Jan. 18. They meet every Wednesday and have breakfast together and talk about what is happening in and around the country. Those attending were Larry and Nancy Meyer and Pat McNabney. This bunch wants to invite you to join them and enjoy the food and company. Come on down some Wednesday morning.

MU officials to update public on presidential search

The Manchester University Presidential Search Committee is inviting the public, students and employees to hear an update about the search process. Sessions will be held on the following dates and locations: Tuesday, Feb. 9 at noon at Manchester University Fort Wayne, Room 132, 10627 Diebold Road and at 3:30 p.m. at the Wine Recital Hall on North Manchester campus. There will be time for Q&A at each session. The deadline for presidential candidates to apply is Feb. 20. The current president, Dave McFadden, retires June 30.

FRANCES

SLOCUM CHAPTER DAR TO

MEET: Wabash

County Frances Slocum Chapter,

INDAR will meet Tuesday, Feb.14, 7 p.m. at the Grandstaff-Hentgen Activity Room, 1241 Manchester Avenue, Wabash. The program will be presented by Tamra Wise by Elizebath Smith

Friedman, the American expert cryptanalyst.

Prospective members and guests are always welcome to attend. DAR membership is open to any woman 18 years of age, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the

American Revolution. Those having questions about their family history lineage information may contact www.dar.org or Tamra Wise at 574527-2208 or Barbara Amiss at 260-9824376.

3B PROGRAM: BODY, BRAIN, and BELIEF: N. M. United Methodist Church is once again hosting the 3B Program for Seniors. The

church is located at 306 E. 2nd St, N. Manchester IN. Classes are held on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday each week from 10 -11 AM. Classes are free of charge. The 3B Program is designed especially for senior adults. The focus is on moving muscles (Body), stretching the brain (Brain), and nurturing one’s faith (Belief). The 3B program is

designed to be done primarily sitting in a chair, with the option of some exercises done standing. The aim is always to increase muscle

strength and flexibility while improving balance. The beauty of the program is that it can be adapted to use with individuals in wheelchairs

and/or walkers. Individuals can join the class at any time and it is not a requirement to attend all the classes each week. Cont. on Pg. 11

Michael Snell 260-774-3665 pinkynova71@ hotmail.com

Winners in the ECHO racing were (front, from left) Bentley A-Class 2nd Place. Hudsyn B-Class 2nd Place. Bristen BClass 3rd Place. Back row, Track Official Matt Snell presented the ECHO Awards and next to him is A-Class Top Eliminator Kaedence. In the orange shirt is Oliver who won A-Class 3rd Place. Next is Tucker who won Top Eliminator in B-Class.

Darwin DeLaughter

Owned DeLaughter mortuary

Jan. 16, 2023 – Dec. 23, 1939

Darwin DeLaughter, 83, of North Manchester, passed away on Monday, Jan. 16, 2023, at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

Darwin was born Dec. 23, 1939, in Sidney, the son of the late Talman and Thelma (Secrist) DeLaughter.

He was a graduate of Sidney High School and then earned his Associate’s Degree at the Indiana College of Mortuary Science. Darwin served in the U. S. Army from 1963 to 1965. He married Valeria Layne in 1965, and she preceded him in death on Feb. 5, 2020.

Darwin was the owner and funeral director of the DeLaughter Mortuary for 40 years in North Manchester, and also served as a Wabash County Coroner for 12 years. After retirement, he worked part-time at Raven-Choate Funeral Home in Marion for several years.

Darwin was a member of the Sweetwater Assembly of God in North Manchester and was also a member of the North Manchester Kiwanis Club; Demming Lodge No.88; the Valley of Fort Wayne Scottish Rite and Mizpah Shrine; and the North Manchester Shrine Club. He also served as a past governor of the Indiana District of Kiwanis from 2009 to 2010.

He is survived by a son, Timothy (Michelle) DeLaughter of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina; a daughter, Tana (Darin) Lehr of Delphi; a daughter-in-law, Kelly DeLaughter of North Manchester; a brother, Talman DeLaughter of Iowa; sisters, Connie (Joe) Gottschalk of Columbia City, and Janice Gerardot of Claypool; nine grandchildren; a great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by a son, Anthony “Tony” DeLaughter; his twin sister, Darlene Maroney, and sisters, Carolyn Maroney and Barbara Slater.

Visitation was Friday, Jan. 27, 2023 at Sweetwater Assembly of God, 2551 IN-114, North Manchester. Visitation also took place Saturday, Jan. 28, 2023, in the church prior to the funeral. Funeral Services were Saturday with Pastor Jeremy Jones officiating. Entombment followed in Oaklawn Cemetery, North Manchester.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Indiana District of Kiwanis, 3636 Woodview Trace Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46268 or online at www.indkiw@indkiw.org ; or to the Shriners Hospitals for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, Fla. 33607.

Arrangements are entrusted to Raven Choate Robinson Funeral Home, 1202 W. Kem Road, Marion.

Barbara Landis 97 Former Realtor

July 28, 1925 – Jan. 22, 2023

Barbara Alice Townsend Landis, 97, of rural Roann, died at 5 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 22, 2023, at her home. She was born July 28, 1925, in Kalamazoo, Mich., to Barton Bailey and Alice (Brumm) Frinafrock.

Barbara married Donald Dwight Townsend in Hastings, Mich., on May 18, 1947; he died in June of 1988. She then married Richard Landis in Marion, on Oct. 3, 1992; he died Jan. 20, 2010. Barbara was a homemaker and worked five years as a Realtor. She was a member of the Jehovah’s Witness. Barbara enjoyed reading and playing cards.

She is survived by three children, Joan Palmieri of Los Osos, Calif., Gary Townsend of Big Oak Flat, Calif., and Sally (Chris) Callaghan of Roann; three grandsons, Brian Pence, Chris Townsend, and Ryan Townsend; three great grandchildren, Ben Townsend, Brock Pence, and Beau Pence; and her sister, Johannah Shoemaker of Bloomington, Ill.

Per Barbara’s request, there will be no service. Arrangements by Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, Wabash.

Barry Curless Vietnam veteran

Barry Wayne Curless was born Oct. 12, 1945, in San Diego, Calif., at Balboa Naval Hospital to Robert Morris Curless and Virginia Clark Curless. Most of Barry’s life as a young person was spent in Wabash. He lived at Josiah Whites Residential Care Center as his father was the superintendent for the children’s home for 31 years. It was a family tradition to work at White’s for three generations starting with his paternal grandparents.

Barry graduated from Wabash High School in 1963 and attended college. He graduated from IU in 1968 and received his master’s degree from Ball State University. Not long afterwards, Barry got invited by Uncle Sam to a beautiful park-like setting in Vietnam. It was war time. For preparation, he completed eight weeks of basic training at Fort Leonard Wood. While there he became a jump master. His next assignment was Officer’s Candidate School at Fort Benning and he was accepted to helicopter pilot training until a heart condition was discovered and plans changed. Barry then went to basic infantry training at Fort Bragg before finally leaving for Vietnam. He served nine months and 23 days in Vietnam where he was responsible for setting up communication from base camp to the outposts. Barry was a Vietnam veteran and proudly served the U.S. Army for 2 years, 8 months, and 4 days.

Throughout Barry’s life, supporting White’s was always a priority. When back from Vietnam, he returned to work at White’s, but this time in counseling and recreation. Afterwards, professionally, he supervised heavy duty trucks for International Harvester, sold insurance for Farm Bureau, worked in advertising for the Wabash Plain Dealer, and finally joined the Yellow Pages at GTE & AT&T.

He fell in love with Mary Lou and they married on Dec. 19, 1976. They were married 46 years. In 1979, they welcomed Amanda Nicole to their family and in 1981 along came Matthew Wayne. Barry was an involved Dad and coached both kids in basketball for many years. Barry always made our children’s friend’s feel welcome and our home was always open. It was a home away from home, and the kids always loved his “beaver face” even back then!

Barry flourished in the outdoors and with people. He loved fishing, golf, pickleball, tennis, Florida, and boating. He never met a stranger. He had a generous spirit, fun nature, hearty laugh, and absolute gusto for life.

Barry had a strong faith and was a member of Cornerstone Lutheran Church for 31 years. He was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in March of 2021, which was shocking because he was a non-smoker. Barry fought it bravely and with dignity. He felt completely blessed for his relationship with Christ, a wonderful life, his family, friends, neighbors, and pets.

He was preceded in death by his two sisters Barbara Jean and Roberta Jo, mother Virginia Mae (Clark) Curless and father Robert Morris Curless.

He is survived by his wife Mary Lou (Jupin) Curless; daughter, Mandy; son, Matt, and grand-dog, Henry. He is survived by brothers Lew (Joy), Bruce (Kim), Craig (Jerri), sister Susan (Brent Dawes), and by his best, most faithful, four-legged friend, Teddy “Bear”.

The Celebration of Life is scheduled on Friday, Feb. 10 from 3 – 7 p.m. at Crown Hill Cemetery, 700 West 38th Street, Indianapolis. A funeral service will occur Saturday Feb. 11 at 1:30 p.m. Both will be at Crown Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Josiah White’s (Children’s home): 5233 South 50 East, Wabash, IN. 46992, 260-5631158, https://josiahwhites.org or mailed to the IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center for Lung Cancer at PO Box 7072, Indianapolis, IN 46207 – Please make memorial gifts payable to IU Lung Cancer Research and indicate “in memory of Barry W. Curless” on your gift.

Larry Vetor, 80 Retired from Conrail

June 4, 1942 – Jan. 29, 2023

Larry Eugene Vetor, 80, North Manchester, died Jan. 29, 2023.

He was born on June 9, 1942, the son of Jackson Walter and Erma Geraldine (Drudge) Vetor.

Larry married Marilyn Kline on July 30, 1960.

Visitation 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday at McKee Mortuary, North Manchester. Services will follow.

Patricia Hall, 85

Was a retired nurse

Aug. 13, 1937 – Jan. 27, 2023

Patricia L. ‘Pat’ Hall, 85, North Manchester, went to live with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Jan. 27, 2023. Patricia was born on Aug. 13, 1937 in Saranac, Michigan. Pat maintained a strong connection with her home state her entire life.

She was preceded in death by her parents John and Louella (Rising) Hall, a son and daughter, Richard and Roberta McConnell, two step-sons Steve and Harry Auler, a grandson, David Auler and a great-grandson, Chase.

She is survived by her three brothers, Michael (Pat) Hall, Timothy (Vickie) Hall, and Robert (Sharon) Hall as well as her children Tom (Gail) Bussell, John Bussell, Stacey Seifert, Rebecca (Greg) Dwyer, Robert (Dayna) McConnell, Ronald (Sylvia) McConnell, Julia (Jeff) Boggs, Joseph (Angela) Auler, her stepchildren Gene (Regina) Auler, Marsha (Gary) Markham, Judy (Jack) Clymer, Clarence Auler Jr., James (Pam) Auler, and Bobby Auler including as well as 34 grandchildren, 49 great-grandchildren and 11 great-great-grandchildren.

Pat raised eight children and was a mother figure to many more who came into her life through marriage, other friends, or her children’s friends.

She loved taking all of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren camping in Michigan. They would go on adventures to Lake Michigan, White Fish Point, or Tahquamenon Falls and other beautiful Michigan destinations during their camping trips. Pat would cook stew or chili and made many breakfasts for them over the campfire. She always had a ready supply of hot cocoa mix on hand for any who wanted some around the campfire at night – along with the supplies for s’mores.

Pat was an inspiration to her children, encouraging them to always do their best and loving them through their wins and losses.

After a lifetime of raising children, Pat pursued and received her nursing degree in 1995 retired from Hickory Creek Nursing Home in 2004.

A celebration of Patricia’s life will be held February 11, 2022 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the American Legion Sunset Post 402, 10140 North Troyer Road, Laketon, Indiana.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Patricia, memorial contributions may be made to Riley Children’s Foundation, 30 South Meridian Street, Suite 200, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202.

The family of Patricia Hall has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.

Stacy Helton, 50 Enjoyed sports

Jan. 13, 1973 – Jan. 22, 2023

Stacy Lee Helton, 50, Columbia City, passed away at his home on Jan. 22, 2023.

Born on Jan. 13, 1973, in Warsaw, Stacy was the son of Roger Lee Helton and Tana (Fivecoate) Dingess. On Dec. 14, 2022, Stacy’s life changed when he was diagnosed with stage IV cancer. Despite this heartbreaking news, Stacy remained optimistic.

After graduating from Manchester High School in 1991, Stacy entered the workforce. For 10 years he worked at Shindigz before it ultimately closed. He was employed most recently at Gator Cases in Columbia City.

On June 30, 2001, Stacy married his best friend and the love of his life, Angie Miller. Over the course of the past 21 years, they enjoyed traveling together and making memories. They especially loved visiting Disney and various Minor League Baseball stadiums. Stacy was a fan of football, baseball, and hockey. He delighted in watching Notre Dame sports, the Chicago Cubs, New York Yankees, and the Philadelphia Flyers. In the last year he developed a fondness for smoking meats and cooking. Stacy will be remembered for his sense of humor and his love for his three cats.

The loving memory of Stacy Lee Helton will be forever cherished by his wife, Angie Helton, Columbia City; brother, Matthew (Natasha) Helton, Wabash; sister, Brandy (Tyler) Rash, Grabill; stepbrothers, Jackie and Josh Dingess, Laketon; stepmother, Sheri Helton, Roann; and his nieces and nephews. Stacy was preceded in death by his father, Roger Lee Helton; mother, Tana (Fivecoate) Dingess; and stepfather, Jackie Ray Dingess.

Visitation was Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023, at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester. The family has asked you to share photos of Stacy under his obituary on the McKee Mortuary website.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Stacy Helton, memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Whitley County, 951 South Like Street, Columbia City, IN 46725.

The family of Stacy Helton has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.

Condolences may be emailed to mckeemortuary.com

Virginia Smith, 90

Retired as an LPN

Sept. 25, 1932 – Jan. 24, 2023

Virginia H. Smith, 90, of Wabash, passed away at 3:35 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023, at her residence. She was born on Sept. 25, 1932 to Ted and Mary (Cole) Cooper in Buchanna County, Va.

Virginia was married to Daniel Barnhill; he passed away, then she married Roland Smith on Dec. 5, 1973. She worked and retired as an LPN at John Hopkins Bayview Hospital in Baltimore, Md.

Virginia was a member of Christian Heritage Church in Wabash.

Virginia is survived by her husband, Roland Smith of Wabash; two sons, Daniel Barnhill of Sparrow Point, Md., and David Barnhill of Baltimore, Md.; one daughter, Dale (Tom) Fox of Baltimore, Md.; one brother, Clarence “Doc” (Chris) Cooper of Wabash; two sisters, Frances (David) Johnston of Wabash, and Ethel Hill of Prestonsburg, Ky.; 11 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents, one son, Tracy Barnhill, one daughter, Joyce Dicembre, two brothers, and two sisters.

Visitation was Sunday, Jan. 29, 2023, at McDonald Funeral Home, 231 Falls Ave., Wabash.

Funeral Services will be at Connelly Funeral Home of Dundalk, 7110 Sollers Point Road, Dundalk, Md. Burial will take place at Oak Lawn Cemetery, Baltimore County., Md.

McDonald Funeral Homes, Wabash Chapel, have been trusted with Virginia Smith’s final arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.mcdonaldfunerals.com

Honeywell adds 3 new shows

Honeywell Arts & Entertainment adds three shows to its 2023 lineup at the Honeywell Center.

Tickets go on sale Friday, Feb. 3, at 10 a.m. and will be available online at honeywellarts.orgo r by calling 260-5631102.

Cheap Trick –Wednesday, April19, at 7:30 p.m. at the Honeywell Center

Rock and Roll Hall of Famers

Cheap Trick blend pop, punk, and metal in a catchy, instantly recognizable way, producing timeless classics like “I Want You To Want Me,” “Surrender,” “Dream Police,” and “The Flame.”

Scooter’s cuts ribbon at Wabash site

By Joseph Slacian jslacian@thepaperofwabash.com

Scooter’s Coffee celebrated its grand opening on Friday, Jan. 27, with a ribbon cutting.

The drive-thru only business is located at 797 S. Wabash St., just

north of the Wabash Street bridge. It opened for business in early January.

“It is a coffee shop drive thru,” manager Teresa Sutton told The Paper of Wabash County. “But we also serve more than just coffee. We have smoothies, blenders, vertigos,

Matcha tea, Chai tea.

“We also have quenchers and Red Bull infusions and Red Bull vertigos.”

The site also serves a variety of breakfast sandwiches and pastries.

The business is open from 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

There are 22

MU offers loan replayment safety net

Manchester University is proud to offer a loan repayment assistance program (LRAP) to students who graduate from Wabash County high schools in 2023.

“This is a demonstration of our commitment to our neighbors in Wabash County. They will receive a high-quality education that prepares them for the workforce and life after graduation. If your income after graduation is modest, this program can help you repay your student loans,” said President Dave McFadden.

The LRAP can help graduates with their federal student, parent PLUS and private alternative loans if their income after graduation is below $44,000.

“Removing financial barriers is critical and powerful when combined with initiatives that help students see themselves as college students,” said Patty Grant, executive director of the Community Foundation of Wabash County. Her organiza-

tion promotes education and endeavors to link resources so that individuals and families can reach their most cherished goals.

“While the value of a degree from Manchester cannot be measured in dollars alone, we understand that many families have concerns about student loans. We want to ease those concerns by offering this financial safety net,” said Ryon Kaopuiki, vice president for admissions.

Manchester is partnering with Ardeo Education Solutions to offer the LRAP option at no cost to students or families. The assistance will continue until the graduate’s annual income exceeds $44,000 or until their loans are completely paid off.

Nearly 200 colleges and universities around the nation have partnered with Ardeo to ease the worry surrounding student loan debt.

For more information, contact admitinfo@manchester.edu.

employees. Scooter’s was founded in 1998 and there are more than 500 locations it 27 states across the nation.

Most seats are $45 and $65 with limited premium seating available for $100 and $150.

Leonid & Friends – Friday, Sept. 8, at 7:30 p.m. at the Honeywell Center

Leonid & Friends, comprised

of 11 of the finest musicians in Russia, Ukraine, Moldova, and Belarus, have blown fans’ minds with their uncanny ability to capture the spirit of American supergroup Chicago.

After their first video went viral, they gained traction when Chicago published it on its official website. With over 200 successful U.S. tours under their belt and hundreds of thousands of fans worldwide, Leonid & Friends continues to astound its global audience with its unique ability to capture the spirit, musicality, and fire of American supergroup Chicago.

Most seats are $25and $39with limited premium seating available for $65.

The Australian Pink Floyd Show –Wednesday, Sept. 13, at 7:30 p.m. at the Honeywell

Center

Performing the music of Pink Floyd with note-fornote perfection, this criticallyacclaimed show has been astonishing audiences for more than three decades. Always striving to reproduce the complete Pink Floyd experience and bring the music to new audiences, the show continues to include a stunning light and laser show, video animations, high-resolution LED screens, and other special effects.

In true Pink Floyd fashion, there are several huge inflatables, including a giant pig and their own unique pink kangaroo.

This concert is sponsored by Bott Electric, Inc. Most seats are $39 and $59 with limited premium seating available for $109.

Teresa Sutton prepares to cut the ribbon at Schooter’s Coffee Drive-Thru. Photo by Don Hurd

NJHS Robotics team places at recent event

The Northfield Junior High Robotics team competed at Heritage Christian School on January 21. It was an all middle school event with a total of 9 teams.

Northfield’s team placed 5th in competitive driving and was eliminated in the semi-final round. They placed 4th overall in skills and won the Inspire Award. The Inspire Award is presented to the most passionate and positive team at the event; they exhibit integrity and goodwill toward other teams, share designs, and embrace the concept of cooperative learning and serve as a positive example to others.

Congratulations to all team members and their coach!

Feb. 2 is the American tradition of Groundhog Day. The festivities will begin at sunrise at Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, but the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club celebrates with talent shows, banquets and performances leading up to and after the festivities. If Punxsutawney Phil sees his show, there will be six more weeks of winter. If he doesn’t, it’s a forecast of an early spring.

Groundhog Day’s roots are in the Christian holiday Candlemas,

Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow, let’s celebrate on Saturday, Feb. 4, with Ice Cream for Breakfast Day!

the midway point between the winter solstice and spring equinox, which for this year is between Dec. 21, 2022, and March 20, 2023. During Candlemas, Christians honored the changing of the seasons and lit candles to predict how long winter would last.

The first official Groundhog Day happened on Feb. 2, 1887, in the same town of Punxsutawney.

The celebrations made a permanent home at Gobbler’s Knob the following year. According to History.com, it was a newspaper editor and groundhog hunter who declared Phil, a groundhog from Punxsutawney, the true predictor.

Today, the ceremony is overseen by a group of men who form the “Inner Circle” of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club. The Inner Circle also cares for and feeds the groundhog carrying out the responsibilities of Punxsutawney Phil.

Whether or not

NM news

MANCHESTER

MEALS-ON-

WHEELS provides meals prepared according to the dietary needs, as recommended by their physician.

Each weekday between 11 a.m. and 12 noon a hot lunch and a cold evening meal are delivered by volunteer drivers to the client’s homes.

Feb. 4 is also Thank a Mail Carrier Day. We could give a much appreciated thanks to our mail delivery people who bring our mail in all kinds of weather.

The Lagro Community Church welcomes you to church.

Sunday School is every Sunday from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. and worship service is at 10:00 a.m. Robert Karst is the speaker for Feb. 5.

Dora Christian Church, 2325 S. Salamonie Dam Road, welcomes you to worship service Sunday at 8:15 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. Sunday School is at 9:30 a.m. Minister Mark Wisniewski’s sermon for Feb. 5 will be “Foxholes,” based on Psalm 27:1-9.

A message about faith from Preacher Mark: People talk about faith in a number of different ways. There is a lot of confusion on the subject of what true faith is, and what it is not. First, faith is not a feeling. True faith will naturally produce certain felt emotions, such as peace (Philippians 4:7). That feeling of peace that comes with being forgiven, redeemed, saved, and in Christ is a result of faith. But that

peace, by itself, is not faith; it is a result of faith. Similarly, contentment (1 Timothy 6:6) and assurance (1 John 5:13) are results of true faith, but those feelings, by themselves, are not faith.

Second, faith is not just believing in God and Christ. Many of the Jewish rulers believed in Jesus, but they did not follow Him (John 12:42). James stated that “Even the demons believe –and tremble!” (James 2:19). The demons believe in God, without question, but they’re still demons.

Third, faith is not simply the statement, “I have faith.” True faith is consistently obedient. See Mark 16:15-16. Saving faith couples belief with obedience. Real faith is a lifestyle; it is expressed in the way we live our lives all day long, day in and day out. It governs and guides our lives. It is who we are and what we are. It is our character, our identity (James 2:18).

Fourth, faith is not a blind leap in the dark. True faith is based on substance and evidence of the truth of God’s existence and Christ being our Lord and Savior. “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of

things not seen” (Heb. 11:1). It develops through our learning and embracing the evidence laid out for us in God’s word: “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Rom. 10:17).

It behooves us to examine our faith on a regular basis. We need to nurture it and always strive to develop our faith to grow deeper and stronger, and not fall into the pitfalls of the common misconceptions about faith.

Lagro United Methodist Church invites you to its Sunday morning services at 9 a.m., and Sunday school for all ages at 10 a.m. Youth group activities for students in the 4th through 12th grades are also offered. Those activities and times vary each month depending on the service project. For more information on youth programs, parents can email the church at

LagroUMC@gmail.

Kids’ Klub at Lagro United Methodist Church meets on Wednesdays (on days MSDWC is in session from Sept. through the end of March) from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Activities include: Bible lesson, singing, game time in the gym, and supper.

The Sons of the American Legion Post 248 in Lagro will be hosting their annual Hog Nut Fry on Saturday, Feb. 4, starting at 5 p.m. The all-you-can-eat meal will also include baked beans and coleslaw. The public is invited; you must be 21 to enter. Sliced ham will be available for an optional meat. For further information, call the American Legion at 260-7822344.

A Grief Support group meets at the Church of Christ at Wabash, 1904 N. Wabash St, Wabash, every Monday at 3:30 p.m.

You are welcome to join them. If you have questions, contact Donna Wendt, 260-782-2160.

There are people in our community who are in need of our prayers at this time. Their names remain on our lips and their concerns linger in our hearts. Let us not forget to personally be a presence in their lives, to offer hope and help.

Their names need not be mentioned; God knows them by name.

Lagro Happy Birthday: Feb. 4 –Colleen Campbell; Feb. 8 – Liz Schmid. Do you have a birthday or anniversary to celebrate? Do you have a special event to share? If so, just send me an email at the address listed above, or text me at 260-571-2577; the deadline is Thursdays by 7:00 p.m.

I’d love to share your special day or your community event. Let’s share the news!

...continued from Page 7

Clients can choose how often to receive meals. To sign up for meals call the office at 260-982-6010 and talk with an office volunteer or leave a voice mail message.

MFOC THRIFT SHOP: MFOC Market Street, North Manchester.

Thrift Shop hours are Tuesday through Friday 10

a.m to 4 p.m. Saturdays 10 a.m to 1 p.m. Closed Sunday and Monday. Donations only during business hours. Use back door for all donations. We do not accept large appliances, furniture, televisions, or computers. Call 260-982-4592 if you have any questions. Leave a message

and someone will get back with you.

FOC FOOD PANTRY is open from 2-5 p.m. on Thursdays. The Food Pantry is located at 500 N. Front Street, N. Manchester.

NM COMMUNITY PANTRY: Located at the Market Street ‘porch area’ of the N. M. Public

Library, the small outdoor pantry is open 24/7. The outdoor shed has been well-stocked by the community with items such as canned goods, pasta, diapers, toilet paper, hygiene products, and snack items. The Community Pantry is available for anyone to take anything they may

need, no application needed.

DRIVE THRU

FOC FELLOWSHIP MEAL hosted by the Fellowship of Churches is held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month at the Zion Lutheran Church from 4:30-6 p.m.

The church is located at 113 W. Main Street. Guests

should drive up in front of the Zion Lutheran Church for pickup.

NORTH MANCHESTER NEWS ITEMS may be sent to my e-mail address at nmanchestertalks @gmail.com or you may call me at 260982-8800. The deadline is Wednesday at noon. Please submit timely news

com.

The Northfield Junior High Robotics team.

How to plan a special Valentine’s Day

Couples have been commemorating their love for one another in February for quite some time. Couples may go about such celebrating in their own unique ways, but it’s not uncommon to focus on a night out on the town.

Valentine’s Day is a busy holiday for many businesses, but especially so at restaurants and other romantic venues. So it’s best to plan ahead to ensure a perfect evening. These tips can help you organize a Valentine’s experience to remember.

Tip 1: Reserve early

The closer to Valentine’s Day, the more likely popular restaurants will be all booked up. If the goal is to dine at a particularly trendy spot — or anywhere but the most obscure establishment — be sure to make a reservation well in advance. Start planning the Valentine’s Day dinner in December so you won’t have to look far and wide to book a reservation. If a restaurant does not take reservations that far out, ask when they will start collecting names for Valentine’s Day and book the

moment you can.

Tip 2: Secure transportation

One way to make the night more romantic is to snuggle in the back seat of a vehicle and have someone else do the driving. This also is a safer option if you plan to pop a bottle of bubbly or sip some wine while celebrating. Hiring a limousine, luxury car, horse-drawn carriage, or something similar also will require advanced reservations. However, going the extra mile can make the night memorable.

Tip 3: Emulate a scene from a favorite film

Popular Valentine’s gifts

Valentine’s Day sparks one of the busiest shopping seasons of the year. Though it might not inspire the masses quite like Black Friday, Valentine’s Day compels millions of people to find gifts for that special someone in their lives each February. In fact, the National Retail Federation’s Annual 2022 Valentine’s Day Spending Survey found that the average person expected to devote $175 to Valentine’s Day spending in 2022.

Any heartfelt gift can light up a sweetheart’s smile on Valentine’s Day, but certain items tend to be more popular than others on

The person you love may adore a romantic movie, whether it’s a classic or more recent tear-jerker. When planning a romantic evening out, consider reenacting a movie scene with you and your special someone in the starring roles. For example, recall when Tom Hanks met Meg Ryan at the top of the Empire State Building in “Sleepless in Seattle.” Include a visit to the observation deck or roof as part of a whirlwind Valentine’s Day experience.

Tip 4: Attend a live music performance

February 14. Though Valentine’s Day shoppers can always go their own way when shopping for their sweethearts, some of the more traditional gifts remain wildly popular. In its survey, the NRF found that these go-to gifts maintained their status as the most popular items for individuals to show their love for that special someone in 2022:

• Candy: Fifty-six percent of survey respondents indicated they planned to buy candy for their sweetheart on Valentine’s Day. Though any candy can suffice, chocolates inside a heart-shaped Cont. on Pg. 13.

Music can touch the heart and soul. That makes an evening watching a band play or enjoying a musical on the stage even more memorable if it occurs on Valentine’s Day. Select an intimate venue to add to the

romantic ambiance of the night.

Tip 5: Think outside tradition

While dinner and a movie are Valentine’s Day favorites, any activity done together can be memorable and romantic. Why not book a couple’s

cooking class? Or enjoy a winter sport like skiing or ice skating? Or warm up after window shopping on Main Street by sipping hot cocoa and snuggling on the sofa under a blanket at a nearby B&B?

Ways to create a romantic evening

Romance takes center stage on Valentine’s Day. February 14th is a chance for couples to express romantic sentiments that reflect just how much they care for one another.

The relationship site

Marriage.com offers that happily married couples with long histories together manage to preserve some elements present in the early stages of their relationships — a time when couples typically make a concerted effort to show affection for one another.

Romance is a key component of successful relationships. Couples may discover they don’t need to leave the house to enjoy a romantic night together.

Hide romantic notes

Engage in a romantic scavenger hunt by hiding notes that express thoughtful sentiments and give your partner a list of

clues to guide the hunt.

Start with a clue such as “Where did we go on our first date?”

If it was an Italian restaurant, you can attach the next clue to a bunch of basil in the refrigerator, and so on.

Alternate watching films

Both of you probably have alltime favorite movies, but they may not be the same films. Encourage bonding time by queueing up two separate films to watch, yours and your significant other’s.

Whether one is a rom-com and the other is an action flick, watch them in succession while cuddling on the sofa.

Prepare a meal together

Valentine’s Day dinner can be all the more intimate when you dine alone at home. Together, shop for the ingredients for a delicious meal you both enjoy.

Gifts

Pour two glasses of wine and divvy up meal preparation tasks. Steal a few sample bites (and kisses) along the way.

Cook to a romantic playlist to really enhance the ambiance. Dress up the bed Create a warm and inviting bedroom with some luxury bedding. Splurge on sheets with a high thread count and a new down duvet. Fluffy new pillows and room accents can make the space even more inviting. This new bedding may inspire extra cuddling together under the covers.

Slow dance

When was the last time you enjoyed a dance in each other’s arms? Turn up “your song” and sway to the beat. Dancing together can rekindle romantic feelings and needn’t be reserved for special occasions like weddings.

box tend to be especially popular in mid-February.

• Greeting cards: Greeting cards will likely never go out of style, as 40 percent of respondents indicated they would give a card in 2022.

• Flowers: The appeal of a bouquet is undeniable, prompting 37 percent of shoppers to give flowers on Valentine’s Day.

• A night out: A romantic night out is perhaps as meaningful as ever in a world still emerging from the pandemic. So it’s no

surprise that 31 percent of respondents indicated they planned to take their sweethearts out for a night on the town in 2022.

• Jewelry: Though it might rank below the others on this list, jewelry remains a goto gift on Valentine’s Day. And with total Valentine’s Day spending on jewelry estimated at more than $6 billion in 2022, this could be where most Valentine’s Day dollars go this February.

Cont. from Pg.

LaFontaine Lions to host breakfast Feb.11

LaFontaine Lions will be hosting a breakfast on Saturday, Feb. 11, from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at the LaFontaine Community Building. Menu is sausage gravy, biscuit, sausage, scramble eggs, pancakes, juice, milk, and coffee. Free Will Donation. Proceeds will go towards the upkeep of the LaFontaine Community Building. You may bring any old glasses, hearing aids, cell phones, and old keys. The keys are sold and the money goes to cancer research.

NOTICE FOR LAFONTAINE RESIDENTS

Christine Flohr, Executive Director of visit Wabash County, will be hosting a community round table for the Town of LaFontaine. This will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 8, at 4:15 p.m. in the LaFontaine Community Building. Anyone and everyone are welcome to come to this. She wants to learn about what tourism/visitors mean for your area. The meeting shouldn’t last more than an hour.

ATTENTION

PARENTS! Stop cutting 6 feet off your parenting. A few years ago we were at soccer practice-I have never forgotten this moment. The kids were told to run around the field, go to the corner and make their way back to the center. The first few kids did it correctly, but they all quickly started cutting the corner. When my son got to the point where kids were cutting, I yelled “all the way to the corner! Do it right! We aren’t cheaters!”

One of the kids’ fathers looked at me and goes “geez, it’s only 6 feet.” I

didn’t say anything at the time. I shrugged it off and sat back down. But his comment has literally stuck with me for years now and I’ve always wondered “would you cut 6’ off a wall if you were building a house? 6 inches? 6 centimeters?” No. You wouldn’t You’re going to do your best to build that house exactly to spec. You aren’t going to say “oh, well, this board is 6 feet short, too badwe’ll make it work. “you’re going to go out and get another board. Why?

Because cutting corners on that home causes structural integrity issues. Cutting corners means you end up with a lopsided house that can’t be trusted to provide you shelter in storms. I’ve been volunteering at the school on

Monday’s. There are 45 kids in the club I work with.

It’s terrible. Absolutely horrible. I love volunteering, I love working with my son’s class, but I’ve never seen anything like this before. These kids are mean, nasty, and disrespectful. They have zero accountability.

They scream, they run, they don’t listen, they don’t follow directions.

They aren’t quiet when the teacher talks. They have no respect whatsoever. The problem is the lack of parenting.

The problem is, these parents think it’s ok to cut 6 feet off their job. Do you realize you are raising an adult?

Not a child? We don’t raise children, we raise adults. It is your job to teach them to be decent people.

It’s your job to teach them what is right and what is wrong. It’s your job to teach respect and responsibility.

(Don’t even get me started on the kids that have zero idea how to clean up after themselves.)

When you choose to take a short cut on parenting, you are choosing to cut

that 6’ oof that wall. You are messing up the integrity of your child. You are teaching them that it is ok to be lopsided and not put in full effort. As a society we need to stop cutting that 6’. Don’t let your child cut 6’, because then the next one thinks it’s ok, and then the next. Then we have an even bigger problem. Stop cutting 6’. Stop letting your child cut 6’. The era of children being raised right now is not a good one. Something needs to change. I could go on further, I could write an entire book. But I know most people don’t even read this much at all (that’s another thing, bring back books!), so I’ll stop here. Just please, stop cutting 6’off your parenting. Your child needs a solid foundation, solid walls, a solid roof if you expect them to become decent people. I reposted these powerful words of wisdom! We should be raising children to be responsible respectful adults. Unknown TROYER MEMORIAL LIBRARY Our

new Museum & Genealogy section is coming along! We are open to donations which will help with the furnishings and displays and are all taxdeductible. Make checks out to: The Community Foundation of Wabash (“LaFontaine/Liber ty Twp History Club” in memo line) -OR- Troyer Memorial Library (“Museum/Genealo gy Room” in memo line). Thanks to John Sutton and the LaFontaine/ Liberty Twp History Club for making this possible! We have a PomPom snowflake for January’s passive craft. In February, we will have DIY Valentine’s available to make! Don’t forget to pay your yearly dues!

LAFONTAINE LIONS will again this year give a scholarship to a

senior who lives in LaFontaine or Liberty Township. We have change name to our late Lion member who had been very active in this project. So now, it is call Duane Davis Scholarship. If you are senior this year, be sure a watch for news about how to apply.

DO YOU LIKE

TO PLAY

EUCHRE? You may come and play at no cost to play at the LaFontaine Senior Center across from McDonalds Funeral Home parking lot on every Thursday at 1:30 p.m. You do not have to be a senior citizen to play.

OUR CONDOLENCE AND PRAYERS to Rex and Melissa Perlich on the loss of her mother, Judith Heddirg.

OUR CONDOLENCE AND PRAYERS for fam-

ily and friends of Bonnie Terry. She taught third grade at LaFontaine Elementary School and retied from there.

HAPPY BELATED ANNIVERSARY to Steve and Jane Peebles Jan. 25

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Shirley Barlow, Beverley Benner, Julie Lengel Feb. 3, John Grayson, Mike Schrameck, Mitchell Mercer Feb. 4, Gordon Guenin, Marie Jones Feb. 5 Cody Ruthedy, Feb. 6 Stan Owen, Hugh Cook Feb. 8 Gerald Miller, Jessica Fahoury Feb. 9

HAPPY

ANNIVERSARY

Ron and Noel Huston Feb. 8 SEND YOUR NEWS and pictures to me by Thursday to etheleib@gmail.co m or 2258E 1050 S LaFontaine, IN 46940

532 N. CASS ST., WABASH, IN 46992

260-563-7478

Jacob Terrell 260-571-5297

www.terrellrealtygroup.com

ASSEMBLY OF GOD

(Formerly Wabash True Value)

Tools, products and expert advice for all your project needs.

Sweetwater Assembly of God 2551 State Road 114 East, North Manchester, IN; phone 260-982-6179. Prayer Service at 9a.m.; Worship Service at 10a.m..; Wednesday Evening Discipleship at 6:30 p.m. Adult Bible Study/Elevate Youth Discipleship/KidzZone “LIVE”.

BAPTIST

Emmanuel Free Will Baptist Church 129 Southwood Dr., Wabash, Phone 563-3009. Terry Hinds, Pastor, Dylan Persinger, Youth Pastor. Sunday School 9:30am. Sunday Worship 10:30am. Wednesday Prayer Meeting & Bible Study 6pm. Bus transportation is available, call 563-3009. Online at emmanuelchurchwabash.com. Find us on facebook.

Wabash Free Will Baptist Church 1056 Erie Street, Wabash. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m., Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Pastor: Dr. Bill Crank.

Southside Freewilll Baptist 360 Columbus St., Wabash; Church Phone 260-563-4917; Sunday School 10:00 a.m.; Worship 11:00 a.m.; Evening Service 6:00 p.m.; Wednesday Evening 6:00 p.m.; Pastor Tim Webb

Faith Baptist Church 200 Linwood Lane, Wabash; Phone 765-4702154. Old school King James Bible preaching at 10:30a.m.; Independant Pre-Millennial Dispensational; Pastor Dr. Ben Church

CATHOLIC

St. Bernard Catholic Corner of Cass & Sinclair Sts.; Fr. Jay Horning, Pastor. Parish Office and Rectory: 207 N. Cass St., phone 5634750. Weekend Masses: Saturday at 5:00 p.m. and Sunday at 9:00 a.m. Weekday Masses: Monday, Wednesday, Friday at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday at 8:15 a.m.

St. Patrick's Catholic Church Main Street in Lagro. Holy Mass 11 a.m. the 1st Sunday of the month except January and February.

St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church - We humbly invite you to experience ancient Christianity in the Church Jesus established. “You are Peter [rock], and on this rock I will build My Church” (Mathew 16:18). 1203 State Road 114 E, North Manchester, IN 260-982-4404 www.strobertsnmanchester.org. Like us on Facebook. Sacrament of Confession: Tues. 5-6PM, Wed. 5:15-6 PM, and Sat. 8-9 AM & 3:30-4:30 PM or anytime by appointment. “Therefore, confess your sins to one another”(James 5:16). Holy sacrifice of the Mass: Sat. 5PM., Sun. 9AM., and 11:30(en espanol). “for My flesh is real food and My blood is real drink” (John 6:55). For more information on Catholicism visit www.catholic.com

CHRISTIAN

Dora Christian Church located 1 1/2 miles South of Salamonie Dam, Lagro; phone 260-782-2006. Sunday School 9:30 a.m.; Early Service 8:15 a.m.; Church Service 10:30 a.m. Minister: Mark Wisniewski.

LaFontaine Christian Church 202 Bruner Pike, LaFontaine; Phone 765-981-2101; Pastor Brad Wright; Sunday School 9:00 a.m.; Worship 10:30 am. Nursery Available.

Wabash Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 110 W. Hill St., Wabash; phone: 260-563-4179; website: www.wabashchristian.org. Worship Service 9:30 a.m. Nursery provided. Find us on YouTube and Facebook.

CHRISTIAN HERITAGE CHURCH

Christian Heritage Church 2776 River Rd.; Tim Prater, pastor. Sunday School 9:30 a.m.; Worship Service 10:30 a.m.; Sunday Evening 6:00 p.m.; Wednesday Bible Study 6:00 p.m.; Radio Ministry 8:30 a.m.-9:00 a.m. Sunday WKUZ 95.9 FM.

FIRST BRETHREN CHURCH

North Manchester First Brethren Church: 407 N. Sycamore St.; Sunday Morning Schedule – Worship: 9:00 & 10:30 am, Adult Classes: 8:00, 9:00, & 10:30 am, Youth Connect (Grades 7-12): 9:00 am, “LOFT” Children’s Church (Grades 1-6): 9:00 am, Elementary Classes: 10:30 am, “The Garden” Nursery & Preschool Classes: 9:00 & 10:30 am. Find us online: www.nmfbc.org

CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN

Wabash Church of the Brethren 645 Bond Street (off Falls Avenue) 260-563-5291. Doug Veal, Pastor. Wherever you are on life’s journey, come join us as we continue the work of JesusPeacefully, Simply, Together. HOURS: Sunday School at 9:30 a.m.; Worship at 10:30 a.m. Children’s church available during worship. Handicap accessible.

CHURCH OF CHRIST

Church of Christ at Wabash, 1904 N. Wabash St., Wabash (corner of N. Wabash St. & State Rd. 24). Office phone 260-563-8234. Sunday Morning Service 10:00 a.m. and Sunday Evening Service 6:00 p.m. Classes & activities for all ages.

COMMUNITY CHURCH

Grace Fellowship Church - Where Christ is our Passion and People are our Purpose, 4652 S. 100 W., Wabash; phone 260563-8263; Pastor Shawn Light. Sunday Morning: Sunday School

9:30 a.m.; Service 10:30 a.m. Sunday Evening Service: Faith In Action 6:00 p.m.; Wednesday Evening: Bible Study & Prayer Meeting 6:00 p.m. www.gracefellowshipwabash.com

INDEPENDENT CHRISTIAN CHURCH

Bachelor Creek Church of Christ 4 miles north of Wabash on St. Rd. 15; phone 260-563-4109; website: bachelorcreek.com; Lead Minister, Joel Cogdell; Worship Minister, Michael Eaton; Middle School/Groups Minister, Nate Plyler; Next Steps/Outreach Minister, Ryan Keim; Women’s Director, Taylor McFarland; Student Minister, David Diener; Children’s Minister, Tyler Leland; Early Childhoood Director, Janet Legesse. NOW OFFERING 2 SERVICE TIMES. Adult Bible Fellowship & Worship 9:15am & 10:45am.

Roann Christian Church 240 E Allen St, Roann, Indiana. Bible School - 9:00 am, Worship Service - 10:00 am. Chris Ponchot, Minister; 856-405-5267.

LUTHERAN

Living Faith Church (NALC) - 242 South Huntington Street, downtown at southwest corner of Market Street. Office phone 260.563.4051. Worship 10:10 a.m. with fellowship time after service. Bible study 9:00 a.m. for all ages. You honor us with your presence as we seek to serve Christ in our daily lives. All are welcome! www.LivingFaithWabash.org

ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH (LCMS) 173 Hale Drive, Wabash. Phone 260-563-1886. Pastor: Rev. Gerald Gauthier II. Sunday school and adult Bible class 9:15 a.m., worship service 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion observed the first and third Sundays. www.zionwabash.org Find us on Facebook and YouTube. Preaching and caring with Christ crucified for you!

Trinity Lutheran Church (ELCA)1500 S. Wabash St., Wabash, IN 46992, 260.563.6626, tlcwabash@gmail.com. Pastor Dr. Kent Young. We worship our Lord each Sunday at 9:30 a.m. with a Gospel-based message and Holy Communion. There is a time of fellowship and refreshments immediately following the service. We are handicap accessible and everyone is welcome at Trinity!

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Christian Fellowship Church 1002 State Road 114 East N. Manchester, IN 46962. Christian Fellowship Church ServicesSunday Worship: 10 AM. Celebrate Recovery Tuesday at 6 PM and WOW Wednesday 6:30 PM. Pastor Jacob Good, 260-9828558. www.cfcpeople.org

Freedom Life Church (Non-Denominational Full Gospel Church) 480 Washington St., Wabash, IN 46992. Pastor Tim Morrisett, 317385-4400. Adult Sunday School 9:30 a.m., Teens Jesus and Java Sunday morning 9:30 a.m., Sunday Morning Worship 10:30 a.m., Children's Church Sunday Morning 11:00 a.m. Nursery is provided. Sunday Night Worship 6:00 p.m. Wednesday Night: Adult Bible Study 7:00 p.m., Teen Bible Study 7:00 p.m.

Wabash Friends Church 3563 S State Rd 13, Wabash, (260) 563-8452. Lead Pastor, Brandon Eaton. Join us for inperson worship at 8:30AM or 10:45AM, or via livestream on Facebook at 10:45AM. Children's programming available infants - 6th grade. Sunday school for all ages at 9:45AM. Youth (7th-12th) Sunday evenings at 6:30PM.

The Lord’s Table - Verse by Verse 4890 W. Millcreek Pike St., Wabash, Indiana, 46992. Pastor Roxane Mann 260571-7686. Wherever your Spiritual walk is, join us as we continue on. Verse by Verse - Book by Book - Chapter by Chapter - Through the Bible. Full Gospel. Sunday worship 10:30 a.m.. Wednesday Bible study 6:30 p.m.

St. Paul’s County Line Church 3995N 1000W, Andrews, IN; Phone 786-3365. Non-Denominational. Pastor Conrad Thompson. Sunday School at 9:00 a.m. Worship at 10:00 a.m. Youth program 6-8 p.m. on Sunday. Wednesday night Bible Study at 7 p.m.

Urbana Yoke Parish 75 Half Street in Urbana, phone 260-774-3516, email: urbanaparish@gmail.com. Pastor Larry Wade. Sunday School 9:00 AM, Worship 10:00 AM, Bible Study Thursday morning at 10:00 AM.

Walk by Faith Community Church 515 Chippewa Road, corner of Chippewa & Beamer Sts. in Roann; phone (765) 833-9931 or (765) 833-6561. Join us for services and children’s worship at 10:00 am, Sunday School at 9 am. Pastor - Jody Tyner. All are welcome and we would love for you to join us! www.walkbyfaithcommunitychurch.com “Walk by Faith” Youth Ministry meets every Sunday at 5 pm.

Light City Bible Church Located at 477 N. Wabash St., Wabash. Phone 260-275-4448. Sunday Worship 10AM. www.lightcitywabash.org

PRESBYTERIAN

Wabash Presbyterian Church Loving people with the heart of Christ in the heart of Wabash. Located at 123 W Hill St; phone: (260) 563-8881; on the web at www.wabashpresbyterian.com.

Pastor Laura Helm. Sunday Worship Service: 10 AM. Children’s Sunday School during worship. Handicap accessible. Bible Study every Monday at 1pm. Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/wabashpresbyterian

UNITED METHODIST

Christ United Methodist Church intersections of Wabash, Stitt & Manchester Ave.; phone 563-3308. Facilities & provisions for the physically handicapped, hearing & sight impaired. Air conditioned. Sunday multi-media worship service at 10 a.m. with Choir. Email: wabashchristumc@hotmail.com

LaFontaine United Methodist Church La Fontaine United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 57 (Kendall & Main St), La Fontaine; phone: 765- 981-4021; email: lafontaineumc@gmail.com ; website: www.lafontaineumc.org ; Susan Shambaugh, Pastor; Worship: 9:30AM, Sunday School: 10:45AM, nursery provided for both.

Lincolnville United Methodist Church 5848 E. 500 S. Wabash, 765981-2648. Pastor: John Cook, 260-563-1406, pastorjohn1954@gmail.com. 9:00 a.m. Sunday School; 9:40 a.m. Fellowship time; 10:00 a.m. Morning worship. lincolnvilleumc.org

North Manchester United Methodist Church 306 East Second St., North Manchester; (260) 982-7537; Pastor Steve Bahrt. Worship 8:15 a.m.; Coffee Fellowship Time 9:00 a.m.; Sunday School 9:30 a.m.; Worship 10:30 a.m. Live Streamed on Sundays @ 10:30 a.m. on Facebook at INManchesterUMC. Website: www.northmanchesterumc.com

Richvalley United Methodist Church 290 N. Jefferson Street, Wabash, IN 46992; Phone: 260-563-1033; Pastor Jack Suits. Email: rvumc@hotmail.com. Worship: 9:30am, Sunday School: 10:45am.

Wabash First United Methodist Church 110 N. Cass St., Wabash; 260-563-3108; Pastor Nathan Whybrew, Youth Pastor Nick Smith. Service Times: 8am and 10am in the sanctuary. Youth Group Times: Sunday evenings @ Wabash First UMC: Middle school, 5pm-6:30pm, High school, 6pm-8:30pm, www.wabashfirstumc.org; www.facebook.com/wabashfirstumc

WESLEYAN

Wabash North Wesleyan Church 600 Manchester Ave., Wabash. Morning Worship 10:30am; Sunday School 9:30am; Wednesday Bible Study 6:00pm. Church is wheelchair and handicap accessible. A place to feel safe and loved!

New Journey Community Church Old W.C. Mills School. 1721 Vernon Street, Wabash, IN. 9:00 a.m. - Frist Service, 10:30 a.m. - Second Service. Change is possible! Whether you are over-churched, un-churched, or de-churched you’ll find a fresh start at New Journey. We keep the important things like worship, teaching, community, and serving primary, while letting the unnecessary stuff fade into the background. Our mission is to make life transformation through Jesus Christ accessible to all people. So, come as you are and be made new!

Pastor

3 county girls teams post wins in last week of regular season

The girls basketball regular season ended last weekend with all four county schools in action in multiple games throughout the week.

Southwood 83, Northfield 64

In a potential sectional semifinal preview later this week, the Southwood girls basketball team defeated Northfield, 83-64, Saturday, Jan. 28 in both teams’ final game of the regular season.

Southwood finished the season with a 16-5 overall record and a 6-3 TRC record while Northfield ends with a 5-14 record and went 3-6 in conference play.

The Lady Knights jumped out to a 2314 first-quarter lead and ended with an 18-11 fourth quarter to shut the door on the Lady Norse.

Wabash’s Booth wins sectional crown

Wabash freshman wrestler Carter Booth won the 132pound weight class at the IHSAA Peru Sectional Saturday, Jan. 28, the only sectional champion among Wabash County wrestlers.

In all, 14 wrestlers from Wabash County qualified for regional competition by placing in the top four of their respective weight classes.

Booth improved to 23-4 on the season with his three wins. He started the day with a forfeit, followed by a pin over Rochester’s Joey Spencer in the semifinals, then scored another pin in the championship match over Isaiah Nunez from Lewis Cass.

Two of Booth’s fellow Apaches also

advanced to regional - Elias Cressell in the 220-pound weight class, and Jace Bullins at 113.

Cressell, a junior, defeated Lane Collins from Cass by pin in 48 seconds then advanced to the championship match with a pin over Keyton

Ousley from Peru in the semifinal match in 1:03.

Cressell (22-7) lost to undefeated Brady Beck from Rochester by fall in 3:07 in the championship round.

Bullins, a sophomore, started his day with a win by fall over John Mill

from Cass in 26-7, followed by a loss to North Miami’s Braylon McIntire by fall in 1:13.

The 26-7 Bullins rebounded with a pin over Mason Shenefield in 29 seconds, the won the third-place match over Peru’s Kwynn Boggs by pin in 52 seconds.

Manchester advanced seven wrestlers to regional.

At 106 pounds, Rex Moore (19-3) defeated Peru’s Leland Brown, 19-3, North Miami’s Jordan Korreckt by pin in 35 seconds, then lost to Rochester’s undefeated Layne Horn, 7-2.

Jordan Owens defeated Southwood’s Wyatt Smith by fall in 1:46 in the 120-pound weight class, Peru’s Cont. on Pg. 17.

Southwood 50, Southern Wells 47 (OT)

In another potential preview of a sectional contest, Southwood outlasted Southern Wells, 50-47, in overtime, Wednesday, Jan. 25.

The host Lady Raiders took a 16-9 first-quarter lead and led 35-27 after three quarters. The Lady Knights went on a 19-11 fourth quarter run to send the game into overtime and held Southern Wells to just one free throw to clinch the win.

Apaches led the Lady Wildcats, 3028, at halftime and 46-42 after three quarters of play.

Whitko battled throughout the fourth quarter but came up two points shorts against visiting Wabash.

Ella Haupert had a huge game with 38 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, and three steals, along with five three-pointers on the night.

Aleia Sweet added 16 points, seven rebounds, and six steals, while Alaina Winer had 16 points and three assists, followed by Emmerson Chellis with six points, Quinn Claussen with four points and three rebounds, and Meredith Norman with three points and six assists.

For Northfield, Elli Baker led the way with 22 points and three assists followed by Hannah Holmes with 15 points and 15 rebounds, Camryn Kuhn with 15 points, Callie Hoffman with seven points and eight rebounds, and Kirsten Rife with six points and three rebounds.

Haupert led Southwood with 19 points and seven assists followed by Makenna Younce with 13 points, five rebounds, and four assists, Claussen with six points and eight rebound, Winer with six points and four rebounds, Norman with four points, and Macy Barney with two points.

Northfield 59, Southern Wells 49 Northfield defeated Southern Wells in another potential sectional preview Monday Night, Jan. 23, 5949.

The Lady Norse took control early with a 21-6 first quarter and held off the Lady Raiders in the second half to come away with the win.

Holmes led Northfield with 23 points and 13 rebounds followed by Baker with 10 points and three rebounds, Kuhn with nine points, Rife with eight points, Hoffman with seven points and six rebounds, and Powell with two points.

Wabash 62, Whitko 60 Wabash held off a stubborn Whitko team Friday, Jan. 27, 62-60, in a tight game throughout.

The Lady

Libby Mattern led Wabash with 20 points and seven rebounds followed by Kait Honeycutt with 14 points, six rebounds, three assists, and five steals, and Rylee Yoakum with 12 points, four rebounds, and four assists.

Kierra Wilson added eight points and three rebounds followed by Hannah Layne with five points, six rebounds, and four assists, Jade Stumbo with two points and eight rebounds, and Janika Stumbo with one point and one rebound.

Wabash 42, Peru 35 Wabash finished the regular and conference season with a 42-35 win over Peru Saturday, Jan. 28. The Lady Apaches enter sectional play with a 15-7 overall record and 6-3 in the TRC. Saturday at Peru, the Lady Tigers led Wabash, 21-20 at halftime before the Lady Apaches outscored Peru, 117, in both the third and fourth quarters to pull out the win.

Yoakum led the way for Wabash with 13 points and eight rebounds, followed by Mattern with nine points and eight rebounds, Wilson with eight points and five rebounds, Honeycutt with five points, Jade Stumbo with four points and nine rebounds, and Layne with three points and six rebounds.

Cont. on Pg. 17.

Manchester's Jordan Ayres gets a pin over Peru's Ian Black in the 170-pound weight class at the Peru Sectional Saturday, Jan. 28. Ayres placed third Saturday.

Photo by Eric Christiansen

Carter Booth won the 132-pound sectional crown on Saturday. Photo provided

Wrestling

Brayden Gibson by fall in 2:40, then lost to Rochester’s Ethan Holloway by major decision, 132, to finish the day with an 18-4 record.

Zach France (170, 28-4) started the day with a forfeit win then defeated North Miami’s Bradyn Fennell, 30, before falling to Maconaquah’s Ethan Farnell, 5-4, in the championship match.

At 195 pounds, Preston Duffy improved to 25-8 with a second-place finish. The junior defeated Peru’s Melachi Gatliff by pin in 23 seconds followed by a 9-5 win over North Miami’s Austin Smith in the semifinals, before losing to Rochester’s undefeated Alex Deming, 14-3.

Jordan Ayres (286) finished third in the 160-pound weight class.

The senior opened with a pin over North Miami’s Zeke Reshkus in 1:03 followed by a 72 loss to Rochester’s Brant

Girls

Bluffton 55, Manchester 42 Manchester had a rough final week of the regular season, starting with a 5542 home loss against Bluffton Tuesday, Jan. 24.

The Lady Squires led 14-6 after the first quarter but Bluffton took a 2420 halftime line.

The second half saw Bluffton pull away from Manchester for the 13-point victory.

Brookelynn

Buzzard scored 29 points with three rebounds, with

Beck. He rebounded to defeat Peru’s Ian Black by pin in 25 seconds, won the third-place match by technical fall (18-3).

Isaiah Burlingame (29-6) won his first match of the day in the 152-pound class by pin over Cass’s Kamaron Hall in 4:39. He lost his next match to North Miami’s Jordon Simon, 5-4. He won his next match over Peru’s Isaiah Korba by major decision, 132, then defeated Layne Denton from Northfield, 17-10.

Jose Cortes (145) finished the day in fourth place, starting the day with a loss by pin to Peru’s Cody Legg in 5:51. He responded with a win over Caston’s Liam Wilburn by pin in 1:10 then defeated Rochester’s Declan Gard by pin in 2:01, before losing to Legg again, this time, 7-1 in the 3rdplace match.

Northfield had four wrestler’s

Kimberly Schroll with six points and nine rebounds, Gracie Lauer with four points and 10 rebounds, Molly Schannep with three points and three rebounds.

Tippecanoe Valley 73, Manchester 38

The Lady Squires finished the regu-

...continued from Page 16

moving on the regional.

Kameron Pratt (126 pounds) defeated Lucas Grist from Cass by tech fall (22-7) before losing to Rochester’s Aaron Swango by pin in 1:51.

The sophomore then defeated Glen Baldwin from Peru by pin in 46 seconds and clinched third place with a 13-6 win over North Miami’s Spencer Flood, 13-8.

Tayton Balrow placed fourth on the day at 132 pounds. He lost his opening match to Rochester’s Joey Spencer by pin in 32 seconds. Balrow defeated Maconaquah’s Nate Hanes by pin in 4:55 and lost the third-place match to Spencer by pin in 33 second to move to 18-13 on the season.

Layne Denton (152 pounds) also placed fourth by winning his first match over Peru’s Isaiah Korba by pin in 4:51 before losing to Rochester’s

Greyson Gard by pin in 4:22. He bounced back with a pin in 45 seconds over Kamaron Hall from Cass but lost to Manchester’s Burlingame, 2-0, in the third-place match.

Finally for Northfield, Malachi Higgins (220 pounds) placed fourth by losing his first match, 3-2, to Aaron Ringeisen from Maconaquah the defeated Peru’s Melachi Gatliff by pin in 48 seconds, but lost to North Miami’s Austin Smith in the thirdplace match.

Southwood didn’t have anyone advance to regional but Owen Dunnavant placed fifth and is an alternate at 285 pounds, as is Northfield’s Isaac Stakeman at 106, and Stakeman’s teammate, Turner Stephens at 182 pounds.

The regional tournament takes place at Peru High School Saturday, Feb. 4 at 8 a.m.

Apaches, Southwood boys are victorious

The Wabash boys basketball team continued to roll with two more wins while Southwood picked up a non-conference game last week.

Wabash 67, Bluffton 50

The Wabash boys basketball blew up for 26 first-quarter points and kept Bluffton at arm’s length in a 67-50 win Tuesday, Jan. 24.

Izaak Wright led the Apaches with 21 points, followed by Trevor Daughtry with 20 points.

Wabash 68, Eastern 45

After a 14-14 first quarter, Wabash (13-4) ran away from Eastern, 68-45, Saturday, Jan. 28.

Wright had a big game with 28 points.

Southwood 93, North Miami 30

The Southwood Knights (5-9) made it a formality after one quarter of play,

...continued from Page 16

leading 31-6 after the first quarter of their 93-30 win over North Miami, Friday, Jan. 27.

Nathan Lehner led Southwood with 19 points.

Caston 57, Northfield 52

The Northfield boys basketball (511) lost a tough 5752 overtime contest at Caston, Saturday, Jan. 28.

Eli Kroh led Northfield with 21

points.

Tippecanoe Valley 59, Manchester, 57 Manchester let a key Three Rivers Conference game slip away Saturday, Jan. 28, losing to Tippecanoe Valley, 59-57, as the Vikings outscored the Squires, 20-6, in the final quarter.

Gavin Betten led Manchester with 24 points.

lar season with a 616 overall record and 2-7 in the TRC after a 73-38 loss to Tippecanoe Valley, 73-38, Saturday, Jan. 28.

Lauer led the Lady Squires with 12 points and five rebounds, followed by Peyton Ream with seven points and two rebounds,

Schroll with six points and two rebounds, Hadley West with five and two rebounds, Buzzard with four points and six rebounds, Aliala Atienza with two points and three rebounds, Schannep with one point and three rebounds, and

Olivia

Neal with one point and two rebounds.

Southwood alum to speak at academic banquet

MSD of Wabash County has announced the speaker for the 34th Annual Academic Recognition Banquet.

Dr. Zach Hobson, a 2014 Southwood High School graduate, will present to students and guests on March 6 in the Honeywell Center Legacy Hall. MSD of Wabash County seniors with an ‘A’ accumulative grade point average receive an invitation to this annual banquet, honoring their academic success.

Following graduation from Southwood, Hobson pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Athletic Training at Indiana Wesleyan University. During his time at IWU, Zach was a recipient of the Emerging Leader in Athletic Training Award for

the 2014-2015 school year and the Dr. Jared Jones Servant Leadership Award for the 20162017 school year. Upon graduating from IWU in the spring of 2017, Hobson went on to pursue a Master of Science degree in Kinesiology at the Pennsylvania State University while serving as a graduate teaching and research assistant.

Hobson and his wife, Amy, then moved to Atlanta, Ga., where he joined the athletic training staff at Oglethorpe University. After a brief stent as an assistant athletic trainer, Hobson was promoted to head athletic trainer in the spring of 2020. He was later named the assistant athletic director for sports medicine in the fall of 2020 following his

efforts on the university’s COVID-19 task force.

During his time at Oglethorpe, Hobson also completed a Doctor of Philosophy degree in higher education administration with a concentration in educational leadership through Liberty University. Hobson and his family returned to Indiana in the spring of 2022 when he accepted a staff assistant athletic trainer position at Indiana Wesleyan

University. He was then promoted to his current position as the head athletic trainer, where he oversees the university’s Athletic Training Department and provides services to the IWU volleyball and softball teams.

“I genuinely believe I would not be where I am in my career today if it weren’t for the faculty and staff at Southwood High School,” Hobson said of his time at Southwood. “Numerous teachers pushed me to achieve in the classroom at a high level, which prepared me for the rigor of my undergraduate and graduate studies. The various opportunities for AP and dual credit courses at Southwood enabled me to get a head start on my college

education and, as a result, graduate with my bachelor’s degree in just three years.

“Furthermore, my involvement in the athletic department at SHS was instrumental in the development of my leadership skills, as I was influenced by many great coaches during my time as a student-athlete. Finally, my interactions with our athletic trainer, Mr. Ryan Barley, ultimately led me to pursue a career

in the field of athletic training.

The investment in my personal growth was evident

across the board at Southwood, which has made all the difference in where I am today!”

Todd’s Corner is under new ownership

The Citizens of Roann would like to give a big shout out to Todd Vigar who, for eighteen years, owned Todd’s Corner. He has saved us all trips to Wabash for that item we’ve needed to finish a casserole or bake a cake. He sold the station and his last day was Jan, 9. Todd said he would like to thank everyone for their continued loyalty during the eighteen years he owned the Corner. It has been his pleasure to do business with the Roann community.

He sold the business to the Singh Family from Rochester. Todd hopes Roann will continue to be valuable customers and support the new owner of Roann Food Mart.

DONNA HARMAN and the committee is hard at work getting ready for the 2023 Festival. They have a fundraiser to get ready for. A tentative date of May 20 is being considered. It will start at 11 a.m. and run until they run out. That is the weekend after Mother’s Day and before graduation. They are trying to decide whether to do the drive-through or sit-down meal.

Donna told the committee the entertainment has been booked and that Beckie and Ann are working on coming up with the theme for the parade. Some of the committee will be gone but they will be meeting the last of Feb. or March to begin fundraising plans and mail vendor forms out in April.

This year may be “the year of change”. Vendors change, people

change, and we have to go with the flow to make changes too. If you always do what you have always done, then you always get what you have always gotten! This will be another great year.

ROANN HERITAGE Group has canceled its meeting on Feb. 9, 2023.

ROANN TOWN Board has canceled its board meeting on Feb. 13, 2023.

LIFE CENTER has added more organizations to their first Community Resource Fair. It will take place on Feb. 16, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the lower level of The Life Center at 489 Bond Street, Wabash, Indiana.

Organization attending are: Fish of Wabash County, Lighthouse Mission of Wabash County, Blessings in a Backpack (Wabash County), Mentoring & More, ASPIN Health Navigator, Lisa M. Duncan Streiter DDS LLC, Area Five Head Start, Wabash County Tobacco Free Coalition, 85 Hope Free Medical Clinic, and Advantage Housing, Inc. This event is free and open to the public.

ROANN LIONS Club will be having their “Special Friend Valentine Banquet” on Saturday, Feb. 11 at 5:30 p.m. Meal will be served at 6 p.m. The evening will be filled with fun, along with door prizes to be given away and entertainment. If you are 55 or older living in Roann or the surrounding area, they invite you to come. It will be held at the Community Building. Please

Ann Meyer 765-833-2614 meyerann@ centurylink.net

Students have chance to be pages

State Reps. Craig Snow (R-Warsaw) and Lorissa Sweet (R-Wabash) invite local students to spend a day serving as a House page at the Indiana Statehouse during the 2023 legislative session.

call your reservations to Donna Harman at 765-8335663. Meals will be delivered to shutins.

PASTOR BALMER of the Roann United Methodist Church sermon for Feb. 5, 2023 will be from Revelation 2:18-29 titled “God who Searches Hearts and Minds”. Holy Communion will be celebrated. Offering for our foreign missionaries will be taken up. You are invited to worship in person or on Facebook at 9 a.m. The church is located at the corner of Adams and Arnold Streets in Roann.

UPCOMING

EVENTS: Feb. 2 –Roann Lions Club Meeting, 7 p.m.; Feb. 11 – Roann Lions Club Senior Banquet, Community Building, 5:30 p.m.;

PLEASE CONTINUE praying for: Jackie Slee, Phil Swihart, Russell Quillen, Jeff Krom, Coy Eads, Ken Musselman, Robin Stanton, Tiffany Howard, Rob Mace, John Stinston and our country. Stay safe and stay healthy, God bless you all.

CELEBRATING

ANNIVER-

SARIES: Feb. 4 –Mr. & Mrs. Robert Birk.

CELEBRATING

BIRTHDAYS: Feb.

1 – Levi Fairchild; Feb. 2 – Ava Lynn, Tracy Draper, and Owen Delgado; Feb. 3 – Terry Krom and Trent Powell; Feb. 4

– Jerry Holmes; Feb. 5 – Keith Ford; Feb. 6 – Malvern “Bud” Winters; Feb. 7 – Layne Early.

According to Snow, Hoosier students ages 13 to 18 can sign up to page, and assist lawmakers and staff with daily duties while touring the governor’s office, the Indiana Supreme Court, and House and Senate chambers.

“Students who

participate in the page program learn a lot about their state government,” Snow said. “It’s great when local students come to the Statehouse where they are able to see the legislative process firsthand.”

Sweet said pages will receive an excused absence from school and can participate in groups, such as Girl Scouts troops.

“Pages visiting the Statehouse will be able to witness the legislative session and experience all the excite-

ment that comes with session,” Sweet said. “Students are able to learn while interacting with their peers, House staff and lawmakers.”

Sweet said Hoosiers can visit indianahouserepublicans.com/p

ageprogram or call 1-800-382-9841 to sign up their student to participate.

Opportunities to page are available on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. throughout session, must conclude by the end of April.

I, Michael Ruse, Trustee of WALTZ TOWNSHIP, Wabash County, Indiana, do solemnly affirm under the penalty of perjury that the preceeding report contains the information required by Indiana code 36-6-4-13, and is, true and correct; that the amounts with which I am charged in this report are all of the amounts recieved by me; and that the various items of expenditures credited have been fully paid in the amounts stated; that such payments were made without express or implied agreement that any portion thereof shall be retained by or repaid to me or to any other person. A complete abstract that contains the statements required under Indiana Code 36-64-13(a)(5) and (a)(6) is available for inspection in the county auditor’s office.

I further affirm that a complete and detailed annual report, together with all accompanying vouchers showing the names of persons having been paid money by the township, have been filed as required by law in the office of the County Auditor, and that copies of such annual report are in custody of the Township Board and the State Board of Accounts. Said report is subject to inspection by any taxpayer of the township.

Michael Ruse

WALTZ TOWNSHIP Trustee

Telephone: 765-981-2126

Date this report was to be published: 1-31-23

Subscribed and sworn (or affirmed) to before me, the Chairman of the Township Board of WALTZ TOWNSHIP at its annual meeting, this 23rd day of January, 2023.

This report was received, accepted, and approved by the Township Board at its annual meeting, this 23rd day of January, 2023.