The Paper of Wabash County - Dec. 21, 2022

Reaching out to spread Christmas cheer

By Joseph Slacian jslacian@thepaperofwabash.com

The Christmas season will be a little brighter for local residents in nursing homes around the county, thanks in part to Operation Reach Out.

Now in its third year, Operation Reach Out involves local citizens who make random cards for individuals in local nursing homes, according to Jaime Kinsey, who founded the program.

“The cards are collected from the drop off boxes, located at Do It Best Hardware, the Joy Christian Book Store, Nordmann’s Nook in North Manchester and WKUZ radio station, as well as several local churches in our community,” she said. “I also have met several teachers with a box full of cards their students created for this cause.”

Cards are collected about a week before Christmas and are divided equally among all the nursing homes in the area.

“I will deliver them to the nursing home activities director, and they will be sure the residents receive them before Christmas Day,” Kinsey said. “It’s a simple concept, that doesn’t cost people money, and they can make a huge impact on those in our nursing homes.”

Operation Reach Out is a byproduct of the Covid pandemic of 2020.

“I am a dental hygienist and had many conversations with people who couldn’t spend time with their loved ones,” Kinsey said. “It came on my heart, that this would be a way for our community to come together and remind those in our nursing homes that they are not forgotten.

“Through Operation Reach Out, children are becoming aware of others they have never met. It is my hope they will continue to take what they have learned through this annual experience and begin their own community outreaches as they grow into adults. By our examples, our communities’ children will see how important it is to reach out to our older population with love and respect. It is my hope that other communities would begin this tradition as well.”

Kinsey’s family was recruited to help with the project.

“We have creations ready to go all over our dining room this time of year,” she said.

Amy Howenstine came on board in 2021 to help get the word out and divide the cards. This year, Cont. on Pg. 2.

2 Wabash County students receive 4-year scholarships

By Joseph Slacian jslacian@thepaperofwabash.com

The lives of two Wabash County students changed dramatically on Thursday, Dec. 15.

The students – Katelyn Ranck of Southwood High School and Malachi Higgins of Northfield High School – each received full tuition college scholarships to any qualified Indiana college or university, or institution of higher education.

Ranck received the 2023 Lilly Cont. on Pg. 3.

Katelyn Ranck tries to hold back tears as Julie Garber, Community Foundation of Wabash County vice president, informs her she is the 2023 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship winner. Photos by Joseph Slacian

Malachi Higgins (third from left) talks about receiving the Ford Family Community Scholarship while surrounded by his family — sister, Millie (from left), mother, Ann, and father, Jon.

Operation Reach Out

Meredith Kelley has agreed to help.

“It is my hope this event continues to grow, and new ideas are developed all to bring joy to those in our nursing home facilities,” Kinsey said.

There are no real rules to follow when creating cards.

“Anyone and any age can create a card for someone in the nursing home,” Kinsey said. “They can be as creative as they like, sign their name to the card if they want, they can use any kind of paper or card material they have on hand. Whatever you choose to design, it will be received with joy.”

Kinsey hopes to share video of this year’s delivery on the group’s Facebook page, Operation Reach Out for Wabash County Indiana.

Salamonie to host Jan. 1 walk

Start the New Year off right with fresh air and renewed senses.

Join Upper Wabash Interpretive Services’ staff for a First Day Hike, Jan. 1 at 10 a.m. at Salamonie Lake.

Meet at the interpretive center for an approximately one and a half-hour, one-mile stroll through the woods along the moderate Wildlife Management Trail.

Dress for the weather. Families, and friendly dogs on leashes, welcome. Advance registration is requested by calling 260468-2127.

Youngsters work on Christmas cards for Operation Reach Out (top photo). Other students (left photo) show off their finished products. Photos provided

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Scholarships

Endowment Community Scholarship for Wabash County, while Higgins received the Ford Family Community Scholarship.

Ranck burst into tears when she realized she had received the honor, which provides full tuition, required fees and up to $900 per year for required books and required equipment for four years.

Both scholarships are overseen by the Community Foundation of Wabash County.

Ranck, who plans to study nursing, possibly at Indiana Wesleyan University, said she planned to go to college from a young age.

“I never questioned not going,” she said. “For me, it’s always been an assumption, ‘Yes,

I’m going to college.”

A personal experience with the medical profession led her to choose pursuing a career in nursing.

“I want to devote my life to helping others,” Ranck said. “Being exposed to the field of nursing when I was fifteen has helped provide me guidance about my future, and seeing the progression of the healthcare field during the span of the pandemic to present time was inspiring because nurses held fast through its entirety.”

Her parents –Sarah Ann and Brian Ranck – said they were proud of their daughter’s accomplishment.

“I think it’s fabulous,” Mrs. Ranck said. “She has worked so hard and through so many

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things – health issues and just different things in the classes she was taking and just refusing to reduce her workload. We’re just really proud.”

Community Foundation Vice President Julie Garber presented Ranck the award.

“Katelyn embodies the great qualiCont. on Pg. 4.

City Hall announces holiday hours

Officials at Wabash City Hall have announced hours for Christmas and New Year’s

City Hall will close at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 22, and will remain closed until 8 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 27.

It will also be closed on Monday, Jan. 2, for New Year’s. The building will reopen at 8 a.m. Jan. 3.

Katelyn Ranck (front row, center) is joined by family members as she shows off the 2023 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship certificate she received. Also pictured are her parents, Brian and Sarah Ann Ranck; grandparents (back row, from left) Scott Anglemyer, Evelyn Anglemyer; siblings Grace Ranck, Ivan Ranck and Olivia Ranck; grandparents Ruth Ranck and Tim Ranck; and aunt Megan Wright. Photo by Joseph Slacian

Scholarships

ties we look for in a Lilly Endowment Community Scholar,” Garber said. “She is a strong student, a leader among her peers, a volunteer in many causes, and a hard worker who will benefit from a tuition scholarship

The Lilly scholarship is for undergraduate students studying on a fulltime basis leading to a baccalaureate

degree at any eligible Indiana public or private nonprofit college or university. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars may also participate in the Lilly Scholars Network (LSN), which connects both current scholars and alumni with resources and opportunities to be active leaders on their campuses and in their communi-

...continued from Page 3

ties. Both the scholarship program and LSN are supported by grants from Lilly Endowment to Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI) and Indiana Humanities.

In determining Wabash County’s Lilly Endowment Community Scholar nominee, consideration was given to multiple criteria, including academic perform-

ance, financial need, work experience, volunteer and community service commitments, and leadership responsibilities. After the field of applicants was narrowed to a small list of finalists, the Community Foundation conducted interviews to determine the single nominee, whose name was Cont. on Pg. 5.

Malachie Higgins (front row, center) shows off the Ford Family Community Scholarship certificate he received. He is joined by Mark Ford (front row, from left0 and Melissa Ford-Kalbfell; and his family (back row, from left) mother, Ann, sister, Millie, and father, Jon. Photo by Joseph Slacian

Scholarships

recommended to ICI, the statewide administrator of the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program. As program administrator, ICI approves the final selection of scholarship recipients for each county.

“Wabash County truly appreciates this opportunity to reduce the burden of college costs on our families and is proud of the caliber of students who have repre-

sented the county in the LECS program,” said Jim Smith, Community Foundation board member. “Few investments in a community are greater than investments in our youth.”

Ford Family Community Scholarship Higgins received the news he received the Ford Family Community Scholarship during a brief ceremony at the Heartland Career Center, where he is in the

precision agriculture program.

He hopes to pursue a bachelor’s degree in engineering at either RoseHulman Institute of Technology or Purdue University. He said he has not yet decided whether his studies would be in mechanical or industrial engineering.

“I’m at a loss for words,” said Higgins, the son of Jon and Ann Higgins.

“The reason I want to be an engi-

neer is because of all the problem solving that I get to do,” he said. “That is what excites me the most being able to work with a group of highly qualified people and try and figure out how to fix a problem.”

Garber, who notified Higgins of the honor, noted, “Problem solving is also a skill of leaders and what makes Higgins a good candidate for the scholarship. He has been a leader in school sports,

his church youth group, 4-H, and numerous other involvements. In each opportunity, he uses his skills of

problem solving to move groups forward. Malachi is the very person every community wants in its leader-

ship.”

The Ford Family Community Scholarship was established to Cont. on Pg. 6.

Yule Time Stroll returns

The Yule Time Stroll at the Charley Creek Gardens has returned for 2022.

Visitors can take a stroll through the beautiful Charley Creek Gardens, lit and decorated for the holiday season, through Dec. 23.

A Honeywell Arts & Entertainment venue, Charley Creek Gardens is six acres of formalized gardens and a horticultural center dedicated to the study, conservation, and appreciation of plants through garden displays and education.

The stroll is free and open to the public.

The Yule Time Stroll is sponsored by Autumn Ridge Rehabilitation Centre.

honor the legacy of the late Wilbur and Florence Ford and their descendants, many of whom were lifelong Wabash county residents who believed in investing locally, supporting community organizations, volunteering, and creating opportunities for future generations. Candidates for the Ford Family

submit an application and an essay on leadership and sit for an interview to talk about their experiences in leadership among their peers and their vision for their communities.

Applicants were evaluated on their potential to become the leaders of the future. In particular, the Ford

Family Community Scholarship awards this four year, fulltuition scholarship to students who have been involved in their communities through volunteer service, community events, youth groups, clubs, teams, student government or other youth leadership opportunities.

Higgins said, “A

meaningful academic experience for me that ignited my passion for engineering was my STEM class in 4th, 5th, and 6th grade. It was a time that a select few people got to leave normal class which was a huge plus for me back then. What I didn’t realize at the moment was that we spent the whole time

doing problem solving, which is thought of as simple fun, more than anything else. That

love for problem solving and creating have stuck with me all throughout high school.”

In conjunction with the National Wreaths Across America day on Dec. 17 members of Horseshoe Prairie DAR Chapter in Noblesville placed a wreath on the grave of George Dale.

Dale is a Revolutionary War patriot and ancestor of Wabash County residents Ken, Jim, Tom, Dave, Larry, Dan, and Lisa Dale, Carol (Dale) Haupert, Nancy (Dale) Niccum, and Luann (Dale) Sparks. The patri-

patriot honored

ot’s son, Alexander, moved to the Lagro area before 1854 and is buried in Wabash County.

It is the mission of the National Wreaths Across America Day in December each year to “Remember, Honor and Teach by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery, and at more than 3,400 additional locations in all 50 U.S. states, at sea and abroad.”

For more information about

Wreaths Across America visit https://wreathsacrossamerica.org

ice organization whose members trace their lineage to an individual who contributed to securing American independence during the Revolutionary War.

Showing off the grave of George Dale, who fought in the Revolutionary War, are (from left) Ann Casassa, Shirley Hunter Smith, and Nancy Kinzie. Photo provided

Paul T. “Tom” Hendrix, 72

Enjoyed IU basketball

Jan. 20, 1950 – Dec. 13, 2022

Paul Thomas “Tom” Hendrix, 72, North Manchester, passed away peacefully at his home with his family by his side on Dec. 13, 2022. The son of the late Paul Wayne and Beulah C. (Sigler) Hendrix, Tom was born on Jan. 20, 1950 in Wabash.

After graduating from Wabash High School in 1968, Tom began his career as a truck driver. He drove trucks for various companies for most of his life until he began delivering parts for O’Reilly Auto Parts in North Manchester. Tom worked hard to support his family that he loved so deeply.

For many years Tom was a member of the First Brethren Church in North Manchester and later a member of the Congregational Christian Church in North Manchester, where he was baptized.

On March 3, 1979, Tom married his better half, Becky Michel. The two were married for 43 years and blessed with three children, Jama, Michael, and Kylee as well as nine grandchildren. Tom was a supportive and proud father and grandfather; he was always there when anyone needed something. He loved attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and loudly cheering them on. Tom also enjoyed going to other Manchester High School athletic competitions and supporting all of the student athletes. He took pleasure in watching Indiana University basketball and NASCAR on Sundays. Nothing brought Tom more joy than inviting his family over and cooking or grilling for them. Even in the wintertime if you drove past his home, you would often see Tom outside standing over the grill.

The loving memory of Tom Hendrix will be forever cherished by his wife, Becky Hendrix, North Manchester; son, Michael (Amy) Hendrix, North Manchester; daughters, Jama Gaerte, North Manchester and Kylee (Seth Foreman) Hendrix, Fort Wayne; nine grandchildren; and Raiko Putz, Germany, who he loved like a son. Tom was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Gwen Huffman.

Visitation and services were Saturday, Dec. 17, at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester. Pastor J.P. Freeman officiated.

The family of Tom Hendrix has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Tom Hendrix, memorial contributions may be made to the Manchester Booster Club 1 Squire Drive, North Manchester, Indiana 46962 or Parkview Home Health and Hospice, 1900 Carew Street, Suite 6, Fort Wayne, IN 46805.

Condolences may be emailed to mckeemortuary.com

Joan Merritt Holmes

Helped found Alpha Phi Sorority Jan. 9, 1927 – Dec, 5, 2022

It is with heartfelt sadness that the family of Joan Merritt Holmes mourn her passing on December 5, 2022 in Naples, Fla. She was born and raised in Wabash; daughter of J. Bruce and Helen Fudge Merritt; devoted wife of 67 years to the late Thomas Arthur Holmes (1923-2019), former CEO of Ingersoll Rand Company.

Recalling her with wonderful memories, immense love and gratitude are surviving four children: Nanne Holmes of St. Petersburg, Fla; Bruce Holmes of Spring Lake, NJ; John Holmes of New Hope, PA; and Susan Eelman of Naples, Fla. and their families; 13 precious grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren (affectionately know to them as JoJo); a brother, Frank Merritt who predeceased her; a brother-inlaw, Dr. G. Burtt Holmes and his wife, Ruth; and many nieces and nephews and their families.

Joan graduated from Indiana University with a business degree, and she was a founding partner in the Alpha Phi Sorority. After college she was employed by Proctor and Gamble in the marketing department and traveled throughout the U.S. and Canada; and on a business trip to St. Louis, Mo., met her future husband, Tom. After a whirlwind courtship they were married in Wabash on March 19, 1952. While raising their four children, Joan and Tom lived in Shrewsbury, Mass; Upper Montclair, N.J.; Glastonbury, Conn; Riegelsville, Pa.; Bedminster, N.J.; Greenwich, Conn. and New Hope, Pa., before moving to Naples. And to say she was adored by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren would be an understatement. They cherished their time with JoJo in Nantucket, Mass.; at the Farm in New Hope; and in Naples.

Joan was a generous philanthropist and, together with her late husband, established several foundations to help many people, students, and charities. These included The Thomas A. and Joan M. Holmes Foundation; the J. Bruce and Helen F. Merritt Scholarship in the Herman B. Wells Scholars Program at Indiana University; the Thomas A. and Joan M. Holmes Scholarship and the Thomas and Joan Holmes Endowment at the Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla, Mo.

Throughout her lifetime, Joan continued with her great love for art. She loved to paint in her studios in Siasconset on Nantucket Island, Mass., and New Hope, and Joan exhibited her work in several art shows in Lambertville, N.J. and at The Honeywell Center in her hometown of Wabash. In her earlier life, Joan also loved to dance.

Joan will be remembered for her love of family, generosity, and friendliness. She lived life with integrity, calm and kindness. She was a blessing to all her family and appreciated for the heritage of faith she left behind. Joan will be sorely missed by all who knew her, especially her family to whom she was very dedicated. Preceded in death by her husband, Tom, it brings her family immense comfort to know she is reunited with her one true love.

There was a viewing at the Fuller Funeral Home, Naples, on Saturday, Dec. 17,. A service is planned in New Hope, on Jan. 9, 2023, for family and friends. Details will be forthcoming.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in her name to the Naples Botanical Gardens, 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples, FL 34112 or The Honeywell House, 720 N. Wabash St., Wabash, IN 46992.

Constance Kruse, 77 Was a seamstress

March 24, 1945 – Nov. 27, 2022

Constance Marie Kruse, 77, joined her heavenly family Sunday, Nov. 27, 2022. She was born March 24, 1945, in Indiana to the late Jack and Helen (Brown) Mendenhall.

Most people knew her as “Connie” but you would never forget her. She was high energy and quick witted. She wanted to change the world so she tried. She belonged to the Red Hat Society, was a great seamstress and made costumes and gowns for plays and worked as many jobs as needed to “get the job done”. She volunteered for every cause in her community, especially to beautify Yoakum, with the Yoakum Museum and Helping Hands becoming her most loved endeavors. She was totally devoted to her Lord and to her family.

She married Bill Kruse in January, 1985 and they owned and operated City Auto Parts until his passing in March 2011.

Survivors are her daughters, Stacie Stubbs and Missy West of Yoakum and Terri Baldwin and husband Kirk of Florida; sons, R.J. Guenin and wife Kay of Indiana and Bryon Kruse and wife Amy of Austin; seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; sister Judy Kramer of Indiana; sister-in-law, Susan Mendenhall; numerous nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Bill Kruse; granddaughter, Amanda Mata; brother, Jerry Mendenhall; brother-inlaw, Dennis Kramer; nephew, David Lewis.

Arrangements by Thiele Cooper Funeral Home.

Janet Niccum, 68

Enjoyed playing bingo

July 30, 1954 – Dec. 18, 2022

Janet L. Niccum, 68, of Wabash, died at 2 a.m., Sunday, Dec. 18, 2022, at Rolling Meadows Healthcare Center in LaFontaine.

She was born on July 30, 1954, in Wabash, to Ralph and Nettie (Burnworth) Bidwell.

Janet worked at Controls in North Manchester, Magnetics in Huntington, and also Charley Creek Inn in Wabash. She enjoyed playing bingo, cooking, baking, and watching Youtube TV.

She is survived by her daughter, Amanda (Jeromy) Gordon and grandson Matthew (Cassie) Niccum, both of Marion, and her sister, Kathy Music of Wabash. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Ralph Bidwell, and her sister, Shirley Bidwell.

Per Janet’s wishes there will be no services. Arrangements by GrandstaffHentgen Funeral Service, Wabash.

The memorial guest book for Janet may be signed at www.grandstaffhentgen.com.

Barbara Wright, 93 Worked in Peace Corp

June 4, 1929 – Nov. 25, 2022

Barbara A. Wright, 93, passed away on Friday, Nov. 25, 2022, at the Appleton Retirement Community, Appleton, Wis..

She was born on June 4, 1929, in Wabash, to Paul D. and Hazel V. (Amber) Stone. Barbara was the youngest of seven children. On Aug. 12, 1950, she married William O. Wright, and together they raised four children.

Early in their marriage, Barbara graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from Manchester College (1951) and taught for two years in the Sturgeon Bay School District. Barbara was very involved in their children’s activities, as a scout leader, active in PTA, transporter of excited snow skiers, and was very supportive in her husband’s work with the city of Sturgeon Bay.

Barbara was very family oriented, and the family enjoyed as much time together as possible. Barb and Bill were married for 54 years and were blessed with 17 grand and great-grandchildren. Visits from all members of her growing family were a cause for celebration, and Barbara was always very supportive of the kids’ activities and accomplishments.

Barbara was known for her welcoming personality, and she gathered friends everywhere she traveled. She enjoyed life and was up for nearly any adventure. In 1978, Bill and Barb purchased a Harley and together they rode to all four corners of the United States. They enjoyed traveling the U.S. and abroad, and traveled to Morocco with the Peace Corp. There they spent two years helping the Moroccan people.

A move to Appleton Retirement Community in 2017 allowed Barb to surrounded herself with friends. She could often be found participating in many activities, with bowling and volleyball being among them. Barbara was always up for friendly competition. At ARC, Barbara could participate in religious services; she was firm in her Christian faith and God was a big part of her life.

Barbara is survived by her four children; Todd (Christine), Tara (OJ Loera) Wright- Moncada, Tim (Mary), and Tracy (Michael) Chovancak; 10 grandchildren: Jesse, Lena, Jorge, Manuel, Jason, Patric, Melissa, Jessica, Nicolas, and Nicolet; seven great-grandchildren: Kyla, Harper, Mia, Ari, Angelina, Liliana, and Aidan; a sister: Miriam Sparling; and her best friend, TeeCee (her devoted cat.)

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband on March 8 in 2005, her parents, and five siblings, Robert, Josephine, Eugene, Mary, and Betty.

A memorial service is being planned for a later date.

Raymond ‘Spider’ Garrett, 85

Painted water towers

March 13, 1937 – Dec. 4, 2022

Raymond Leroy “Spider” Garrett, 85, Wabash, passed away Dec. 4, 2022, at his home.

He was born on March 13, 1937, in Wabash to Walter and Mildred (Culver) Garrett.

Raymond enjoyed traveling for his jobs as a water tower painter and expediter for Tri-State. He loved fishing and coon hunting. He liked to watch MMA and spend time in his garden with his dog, CoCo.

Raymond spent his years following retirement traveling, fishing and working in the garden with his parner in life, Alice Ross.

Raymond is survived by his partner, Alice Ross; children Mark Garrett, Raymond (Theresa) Garrett Jr., Sean Garrett, Allison (Robert) Scantlen, and Dennis John Snyder; sisters Shirley Morgan, Evelyn Turner, Dianne Fife; brothers Larry Garrett and Robert (Alane) Garrett; grandchildren Kristin (Moise) Ngoumape, Jayden Simpson, Peyton Siders, Auston Garrett and several others; great-grandchildren Omari Ngoumape and others.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents, brotehrs James and John, and sisters Martha and Mary.

Raymond had a special friend, Juan Zapata.

As per his wishes, there will not be any services. He is donating his body to the I.U. School of Medicine.

Rodney D. Zellers, 61 Worked as a chef

Jan. 13, 1961 – Dec. 18, 2022

Rodney D. Zellers, 61, of Wabash, passed away at 2:36 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 18, 2022, at Parkview Wabash Hospital in Wabash. He was born on Jan. 13, 1961, to Larry J. and Janice L. (Wagoner) Zellers in Rochester.

Rodney was a graduate of Southwood High School. He married Rebecca Conaway on April 28, 1984. They were friends for 39 years and married 38 years. Rodney formerly worked at Charley Creek Inn’s Twenty as a chef. He was a member at New Song Church in Wabash.

Rodney was an avid outdoorsman, enjoyed feeding the squirrels at the park, playing disk golf and cards, but most of all he loved his family, his cat, and his church family. Rodney’s favorite saying was “I love you more than words can say.” He adored his wife with all his heart.

Rodney is survived by his wife, Rebecca of Wabash; his mother, Janice Zellers of North Manchester, two brothers, Steve (Mary) Zellers, Wabash, and Daniel (Donna) Zellers, Rochester; one sister, Kandy Vicini, Indianapolis. He is proceeded in death by his father.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

McDonald Funeral Homes, 231 Falls Ave., Wabash, have been trusted with Rodney Zeller’s final arrangements.

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

JoAnne Pfaffenbach, 79

Was a Registered Nurse March 16, 1943 – Dec. 13, 2022

JoAnne Pfaffenbach, 79, Wabash, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2022, at Bickford of Wabash.

She was born in Pontiac, Mich., on March 16, 1943, to the late Clarence and Dorothy (Haddrill) Hylla. She married Tom V. Pfaffenbach in Ortonville, Mich., on Oct. 22, 1966, he preceded her in death on Dec. 17, 1997.

JoAnne graduated from Goodrich High School in 1961. She received her nursing degree in 1969 from the St. Joseph School of Nursing in Flint, Mich. She was a Registered Nurse and bus driver for St. Joan of Arc Catholic School for 18 years. She was a member of St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, and a bereavement program called VNS Hospice Kokomo. She served on the BSA Catholic Scouting Committee, where she received the McQuien and St. George Awards, and a rug hooking group called Rug Matters.

JoAnne is survived by her children, Andrew (Renelle) Pfaffenbach, William (Shelly) Pfaffenbach, and Matthew (Andrea) Pfaffenbach; grandchildren, Andrea (Kent) McCay, Allison (Levi) Summers, Abigail Pfaffenbach, Noah Pfaffenbach, Emily Pfaffenbach, Lindsey Pfaffenbach, Claire Pfaffenbach, Tom Pfaffenbach, Luke Pfaffenbach, Ava Pfaffenbach, Lucy Pfaffenbach, and Teresa Pfaffenbach; and great-grandchildren, Aileen Summers, Aurelia Summers, and Kristen McCay.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and husband.

A Mass of Christian Burial took place Saturday December 17, 2022, at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 3155 County Road S. 200 W., Kokomo, with the Rev. Father Elliot Zak, celebrant. Burial followed in Sunset Memory Garden Cemetery. Visitation was Saturday at the church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Monastery of the Poor Clares. Messages of condolence may be left online at www.shirleyandstout.com.

LaVerne Sonafrank, 95

Worked as veterinary assistant June 6, 1927 – Dec. 9, 2022

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of our beloved mother, LaVerne Mae (Hendry) Sonafrank of Port Charlotte, Fla., and Monticello, who earned her heavenly wings on Dec. 9, 2022, age 95. At the home of her daughter in Port Charlotte.

LaVerne was born June 6, 1927, in Peru, to Floyd Benjamin and Ethel Agnes (Connor) Hendry. She married Robert Will “Bob” Sonafrank on March 24, 1946, in Peru. He passed on April 19, 2021.

The couple had four children: Robert William “Bill” (Bonnie) Sonafrank Jr. of Walton, Susan Lynn (Richard) Pennington of Port Charlotte, Eric James Sonafrank and LuAnn (Rick Miller) Pethe, both of Marion. She also helped raise two additional children, Rhonda (Mike) McClure and Ben Brannon.

She leaves behind 13 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren. LaVerne had one sister, Delores Brown, and two brothers, Don and Dean, and a half-brother, David Hendry. She also had many, much-loved nieces and nephews.

LaVerne was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Ethel, her husband, Bob, and her brothers Don and Dean.

LaVerne retired from being a farmer’s wife, a veterinary assistant and tax preparation to working in her son’s store in Somerset, known as the Mini Mart. She retired from there once she started having some health issues. She loved everyone and everyone loved her. She enjoyed splitting her time between Florida and Indiana, touching the lives of everyone she came in contact with along the way. She was truly and earthly angel to all who knew here and she will be greatly missed.

It was the desire of the deceased that there be no funeral. A graveside service will take place at a later date in Indiana.

LaVerne’s children would like to express their heartfelt thankfulness and gratitude to Berean Baptist Church, Tidwell Hospice and Roberson Home/Crematory of Port Charlotte and Hanfield Methodist Church of Marion.

Ella Hoffman, 90

Member of Liberty Mills Community Church Sept. 24, 1932 – Dec. 15, 2022

Ella Louise Hoffman, 90, Warsaw, formerly of North Manchester, slipped into eternal sleep at 12:08 a.m., December 15, 2022, at Parkview Hospital after an accident at home.

Born Sept. 24, 1932, in Harrisburg, Pa, Ella was the daughter of the late George W. and Ella M. (Hoyt) Evans. She is preceded in death by her husband and soulmate of 57 years, John Franklin Hoffman. Surviving are a son, Fred (Brenda) Stone, and a daughter, Susan (Curt) Stephan, and grandchildren Keith, Deanna, Gwen, and Melissa. Also surviving are John’s children, Jim, Colleen, Janelle, Brad, and grandchildren.

Ella was a member of Liberty Mills Community Church, and loved her church family.

“My mom was a beautiful, fierce, stubborn, clever woman, whose faith was unshakeable. Right now she is gabbing with her siblings, and holding hands with my dad – in the all-encompassing love of Jesus.”

There will be no services held. The family of Ella Hoffman has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Ella Hoffman, memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, 50 E. 91st Street, Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46240. Condolences may be emailed to delaughtermckee.com

A Sunday afternoon fire in Wabash is still under investigation, Wabash Fire Chief Barry Stroup said Monday morning in a news release.

According to the release: At 12:53 p.m. Sunday, firefighters responded to a report of a fire at 437 W. Hill St. Upon arrival, there was heavy smoke showing and flames coming from the front door.

Initial fire attack at the front door was stopped due to a collapse of the second floor in that area, and heavy fire spreat to the second floor.

Off-duty personnel were called in and the North Manchester Fire Department responded to a request for its aerial.

The fire was extinguished at 4:55 p.m. Damage was estimated at $195,000

RC race planned Jan. 14

THE ROANN Lions Club met on Thursday, Dec. 1 in the Town Hall. President Phil Dale welcomed everyone and led the group in the pledge to the American flag.

The minutes from the November meeting were read by Donna Harman, Keith Ford, club treasurer, gave the financial report. Both were approved. Keith reported that he had taken another load of aluminum cans in and sold them.

The selling of the beverage cans goes toward the cost of the fireworks in July. The community has been so good at depositing the cans in the collection site. Thank you to everyone who contributes.

In other business, Phil reported that the next RC races would be on Jan. 14 for the Lions Club to sell concessions. We will need volunteers for this. We will sell concessions from about 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

In new business Kraig Musselman, who owns the new rentable storage units near the pulling track, attended the meeting to ask if he could possibly hook into the meter base that is on the west side of the pull field that is turned on by the festival committee each year. The next Lions club meeting will be on Thursday, January 5, 2023 at 7 p.m.

WALK BY FAITH Community Church located at 515 Chippewa Street, Roann, is having a Christmas Eve Service Dec. 24 at 6 p.m. All are welcome. Let us come together to worship and prepare our hearts for the King.

PASTOR

BALMER of the Roann United Methodist church sermon for Dec. 25 will be

Ann Meyer

765-833-2614 meyerann@ centurylink.net

from Luke 2:1-7 titled “A Savior is born”. Dec. birthdays will be celebrated. You are invited to worship in person or on Facebook at 9 a.m. The Church is also planning a Christmas Eve program at 8 p.m. on Dec. 24. The Church is located at the corner of Adams and Arnold in Roann.

MY NIECE sends this to me and I thought this is great! I had never seen this before, what about you? Do you know what the meaning of the 12 days of Christmas song is? Most people know the popular Christmas song entitled, “The Twelve Days of Christmas”. Many people mistakenly assume that the twelve days precede the birth of Jesus, and end on Dec. 25. This is incorrect. The twelve days begin with the birth of the Christ child, and ends on January 6, the Feast of Epiphany. They chronicle the twelve days that the Wise Men followed the star which led them to the manger where baby Jesus lay. Though entirely secular in its appearance, the song actually contains much deeper meaning. During the late 16th entury, persecuted Catholics in England were actually prohibited

from practicing their religion, in all of its forms: written stories, word of mouth, singing, etc. The price to pay for breaking the King’s law was often imprisonment, but a severe infraction could lead to death by hanging or beheading. As a form of secret protest, Catholics created the seemingly nonsensical lyrics that hide teachings found in the bible. In this way, older practicing Catholics were able to pass along their religious traditions and teachings to their children without risking punishment. Let’s take a look at the meaning of the lyrical symbols.

The First Day of Christmas: A Partridge in a Pear Tree – This represents Jesus Christ, the son of God and savior to the Christian world.

The Second Day of Christmas: Two Turtle Doves – The doves represent the Old and New Testaments, the two books that comprise the Holy bible.

The Third Day of Christmas: Three French Hens – The theological Virtues are Faith, Hope, and Charity, and are symbolized by this particular sign.

The Fourth Day of Christmas: Four Calling Birds – This symbol represents two similar ideas: the four Gospels and their writers, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

The Fifth Day of Christmas: Five Golden Rings – Leaning towards literacy, this stands for the first five books of the Old Testament, known as the Pentateuch: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.

Haupert signs letter: Southwood’s Ella Haupert signed a letter of intent to continue her volleyball career at Bethel University. She is joined by family members (front, from left) Christine Haupert, Troy Haupert, and Channing Haupert (back row, from left), Laney Haupert and Tristan Haupert. Photo by Erin McGouldrick

Heath to play at St. Francis: Manchester JuniorSenior High School senior Trevor Heath signed Wednesday, Dec. 7, with the University of St. Francis (Ft. Wayne) to play soccer in the 2023-2024 school year. Heath plans to study Sports Management. He was an Honorable Mention AllConference this past season and helped contribute to a 12-51 record and sectional runner-up season. Pictured are (from left) USF head soccer coach Jake Essig, Heath, and father, Trevor Heath. Photo provided

Manchester boys improve to 6-1

The Manchester boys basketball team improved to 61 on the season with two wins while Wabash stands at 5-2 after last week’s action.

Manchester 71, Southwood 67

The Squires held Southwood to two points in the fourth quarter to shock the Knights with a come-from-behind 71-67 Three Rivers Conference victory Friday, Dec. 16.

Southwood led the game, 65-56 after three quarters of play but Manchester clamped on the defense while hitting timely shots in the final two minutes to take the win.

Gavin Betten finished with 31 points for the Squires while Gavin Martin added 14, followed by Ethan Hendrix with nine, Trevor

Heath and Tyler McLain with seven each, and Tallon Torpy with three.

Will Winer led the Knights with 20 points, followed by Jason Oprisek with 13, Nathan Lehner and Cole Winter with 12 apiece, and Jaret Denney with 10.

Wabash 79, Northfield 46

After a first close first quarter, Wabash outscored Northfield 22-7 in the second quarter to take a 37-21 halftime lead and ran away with a 79-46 conference win Friday, Dec. 16.

Izaak Wright scored 18 points and pulled down 10 rebounds while Kolton Wilson also scored 18 points with four rebounds and four assists, Trevor Daughtry poured in 17 points with three rebounds and three assists, and Grant

Ford dropped in 13 points with four rebounds and three assists.

Antonio Grant added three points while Kaden Vogel had two points and six rebounds, Logan Cantrell had two points, and Collin Price had one point with four rebounds.

For Northfield, Dillon Tomlinson scored 20 points, Noah Burkhart had 11 points and five rebounds, followed by Tyson Baer with six points, Easton Shaw with five, Eli Kroh with two points and seven rebounds, and Carter Rogers with two points.

Manchester 75, Winamac 33

The Squires improved to 6-1 on the season with a 75-33 drubbing of Winamac Saturday, Dec. 17.

Manchester outscored the

Warriors 26-9 in the first quarter and 25-9 in the second to run away with the win.

Betten led a balanced scoring attack with 16 points, followed by Martin with 14, Hendrix with 13, Wyatt Prater with seven, McLain with six, and Torpy and Kaleb Kline with five points each.

Southern Wells 49, Northfield 43

In a back-andforth affair, the Northfield boys basketball team fell short to visiting Southern Wells, 4943 Tuesday, Dec. 13.

After trailing in the first quarter, Northfield outscored the Raiders, 14-9, in the second quarter to take a 21-20 halftime lead.

Southern Wells took control of the game with a 14-5 third quarter and held on for the win.

Dillon Tomlinson led Northfield with 15 points and four rebounds while Carter Rogers added 13 points, followed by Easton Shaw with six points and three rebounds, Eli Kroh with four points and eight rebounds, Noah Burkhart with three points, and Tyson Baer with two points.

Southwood, Wabash girls top county foes

The Southwood and Wabash girls basketball teams each won contests against county and conference rivals, Manchester and Northfield, respectively, over the weekend.

Southwood 61, Manchester 57

The Southwood girls basketball held off a Manchester comeback attempt and improved to 8-2 after defeating the Lady Squires in a TRC matchup, 6157, Friday, Dec. 16.

Tied going into the second quarter, the Lady Knights outscored Manchester, 17-9, in the second quarter to take a 28-20 led at the break.

Manchester cut into the lead to make their deficit 44-42 but Southwood held off the Lady Squires in the final minute to pull out the win.

Ella Haupert led Southwood with 25 points followed by Gracie Lambert with 11 points and seven rebounds, Makenna Younce with Meredith with eight points each, Aleia Sweet with seven points and five rebounds, and Marcy Barney with two points.

Wabash 60, Northfield 52

In a close game throughout, Wabash slowly pulled away from visiting Northfield,

hitting key free throws down the stretch to claim a 60-52 conference win Saturday, Dec. 17.

Kait Honeycutt led the Lady Apaches with 21 points and five steals, followed by Libby Mattern with 16 points and six assists, Rylee Yoakum with 11 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, Kierra Wilson with 11 points and six rebounds, and Hannah Layne with one point.

Hannah Holmes led Northfield with 22 points and 19 rebounds followed by Camryn Kuhn with 14, Jacie Krom with six, and Callie Hoffman with two.

Southwood 40, Bluffton 17

The Lady Knights had no problem with Bluffton Tuesday, Dec. 13, routing the Lady Tigers, 40-17.

After a slow first quarter that ended with Southwood leading, 4-2, the Lady Knights went on an 18-1 run in the second quarter to take control of the game with a 223 halftime lead.

Ella Haupert led Southwood with 21 points, followed by Aleia Sweet with 11 points, eight rebounds, and three assists, Alaina Winer with six points,

ELLA HAUPERT

Lady Squire swimmers win 2 meets

The Manchester girls swim team dominated Elwood and topped Tippecanoe Valley last week.

Manchester 106, Elwood 73

The Manchester girls swim team won every swimming event in route to a 106-73 victory over Elwood on Monday night, Dec. 12.

the victory.

Walt continued her strong night to take first in the 100 backstroke with another personal best time.

The Lady Squires evened their dual meet record to 3-3 with a victory over Tippecanoe Valley.

Briner and Garcia were quadruple winners and Eberly was a triple winner.

Emmerson Chellis with two points and eight rebounds, and Quinn Claussen with eight rebounds.

Wabash 45, Oak Hill 31

After trailing, 9-8, at Oak Hill Tuesday, Dec. 13, the Lady Apaches outscored the Lady Golden Eagles 31-10 in the second and third quarters in a 45-31 victory.

Kierra Wilson scored five points along with eight rebounds to lead Wabash while Hannah Layne added 11 points and three rebounds and Libby Mattern turned in eight points and five rebounds.

Rylee Yoakum had six points, eight rebounds, and seven steals on the night with Kait Honeycutt contributing with four points, seven assists, and three rebounds.

Manchester opened the night with a 1-2 finish in the 200 medley relay. The relay team of Miriam Struble-Hedstrom, Hannah Eberly, Josie Briner, and Sophie Anglin finished first with the team of Rachel Garcia, Evyn Fox, Noelle Walt, and Gracie Dale just behind.

Briner dominated the 200 freestyle winning by over 45 seconds while Garcia easily took first in the 200 IM with Noelle Walt taking second with a personal best time, and Eberly followed with a victory in the 50 freestyle with Anglin taking second.

Briner continued her perfect night with an easy victory in the 100 fly, Garcia followed up with an easy win in the 100 freestyle, and Evyn Fox lowered her lifetime best in the 500 freestyle by over seven seconds to win.

The 200 freestyle relay team of Eberly, Garcia, Anglin, and Briner were just off school record pace to take

In the 100 breaststroke Eberly, Dale, and Sofia Siano finished 1-2-3 to sweep the event for the Squires and in the final event of the night Fox, Anglin, Walt, and Dale took first in the 400 freestyle relay to complete the sweep of first place finishes.

Manchester 91, Valley 76

KAIT HONEYCUTT

Roann news

Christmas: Six Geese A-Laying –In Genesis, the creation story is told in which God takes six days to create the world; this symbol recognizes those words.

The Seventh Day of Christmas: Seven Swans ASwimming – This covers the seven sacraments of the Catholic faith: baptism, communion, reconciliation (the idea that sins are forgiven once you confess and repent), confirmation, marriage, ordination, and the ritual of last rights.

The Eighth Day of Christmas: Eight Maids AMilking – The maids represent the eight Beatitudes, which can be found in the passage of the bible that talks about the Sermon on the Mount.

Condensed, they are: Blessed are the poor in spirit, blessed are the meek, blessed are they who mourn, blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice, blessed are the merciful, blessed are the clean of heart, blessed are the peacemakers, and blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice’s sake.

The Ninth Day of Christmas: Nine Ladies Dancing – This symbol represents the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit: love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

The Tenth Day of Christmas: Ten Lords A-Leaping –Reflects the Ten Commandments, brought down by Moses and passed down as Catholic law. (No need to reprint them here).

The Eleventh Day of Christmas: Eleven Pipers Piping – The eleven faithful

apostles are remembered in this particular symbol: Peter, James, John, Andrew, Phillip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James, Jude, and Simon (though there were twelve, Judas is excluded due to his betrayal of Christ).

The Twelfth Day of Christmas: Twelve Drummers Drumming – The final verse refers to the doctrine of the Apostle’s Creed and the twelve points included therein .

PLEASE CONTINUE praying for: Phil Swihart, Russell Quillen, Jeff Krom, Coy Eads, Ken Musselman, Robin

Stanton, Tiffany Howard, Rob Mace and our country. Stay safe and stay healthy. God bless you all.

CELEBRATING ANNIVERSARIES: Dec. 23 –Mr. & Mrs. Mike Dyson; Dec. 24 – Mr. & Mrs. Jerry

Maxwell; Dec. 25 –Mr. & Mrs. Mike Morris; Dec. 27 –Mr. & Mrs. Phillip Draper.

CELEBRATING BIRTHDAYS: Dec. 17 – Lynda Wall; Dec. 21 – Tyler Vigar, Alethea Eudy, Cassie Eudy, and Khyndal Wood;

Dec. 22 – Clayton Chamberlain, Greg Long, and Bev Krom; Dec. 23 –Kathy Deniston; Dec. 24 – Carol Long, Gene Tomlinson, Trevor Renz; Dec. 25 –Jesus; Dec. 26 –Steve Deniston and Chris Kerr; Dec. 27

Happ

Methodist Church on Tuesday and Thursday, 10am1pm. Also, I am reachable by phone 765-833-2614.

Firehouse to host Christmas Eve event

Celebrate Christmas Eve with friends and family at the Firehouse on Saturday, Dec 24 beginning at 10 p.m. Enjoy an evening of music led by Randall, Tyler and Dustin as we hear new songs and old that celebrate the season. Hear the story of the Baby born in a stable and share a night filled with the presence of LOVE for all! Kids should feel free to attend in their jammies, and there may even be a cup of hot chocolate to warm your toes.

Christmas Eve at the Firehouse is brought to you by your friends at the Congregational Christian Church. All are welcomed to attend. The Firehouse is located at 108 W. Main

Street in downtown North Manchester.

MFOC THRIFT SHOP: MFOC

Thrift Shop is located at 410 N. 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.

THURSDAY’S CHILD: Do you have a newborn?

Thursday’s Child has a lovely gift bag of useful items for you and your child! We recently changed our inventory to newborn through 4T (some 5T). Diapers, wipes, jackets and other necessities for little ones are also in stock. ALL ITEMS ARE FREE, and there are NO INCOME

Bird count planned Dec. 31

Tippecanoe Audubon Society will offer a relaxing holiday experience that the whole family can enjoy, with a birdwatching event open to the public at Limitless Park, 1598 Park Ave., Winona Lake, from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Dec. 31.

Telescopes and experienced observers will help visitors observe and identify waterfowl on Winona

Lake, as well as other birds in the area. There is no charge to attend, and Limitless Park is handicappedaccessible.

This event is part of the annual Christmas Bird Count. Christmas counts can occur between Dec. 14 and January. The

data are used by scientists to understand how bird distributions change as climates shift.

The Audubon Christmas count is the world’s oldest and largest citizen science event, in which nonscientists play an essential role. It has been held since 1900, and the local Tippecanoe Audubon chapter has been part of the effort since 1975.

REQUIREMENTS!

Thursday’s Child is open from 1-4 p.m. on Thursday in the same building as the Thrift Shop (410 N. Market Street).

COME SEE US!

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@gmai l.com or you may call me at 260-982-

8800. The deadline for news to appear in the next week’s issue of The Paper

is Wednesday at noon. Please submit timely news items.

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means new hope! The su in Winter but the light of t shone in the heart of e lifting burdens! (Matthew What burdens do you Jesus lift your spirit?

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Lagro churches plan various Christmas services

When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. Matthew 2:10.

Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year to our readers.

The Lagro Community Church will have a Christmas Eve candlelight service, weather permitting. Refreshments will be served following the service. Please join them to celebrate the birthday of Jesus.

Sunday School is every Sunday from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. and worship service is at 10:00 a.m.

Tim Brown is the speaker for Christmas Day, Dec. 25.

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. The Christmas Eve Worship service will be Dec. 24, at 6:00 p.m. The sermon for Dec. 25 is “Snapshots of Christmas,” based on Luke 2:25-32.

Preacher Mark encourages all of us to carve out some quiet moments in the midst of our busy schedules to embrace the PEACE and REST that only Jesus can bring. That’s what HE came for!

Lagro United Methodist Church invites you to its

Sunday morning services at 9:00 a.m., and Sunday school for all ages at 10:00 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. com.

Kids’ Klub at Lagro United Methodist Church meets on Wednesdays (on days MSDWC is in session from Sept. through the end of March) from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. Activities include: Bible lesson, singing, game time in the gym, and supper.

The Lagro Century Club met at the 950 Speakeasy Bistro for lunch on Thursday, Dec. 15. After lunch they walked up the hill to the renovated house at 200 Davis St, The Hopewell House. Owners Deb Conner and

Tammy Keaffaber, and their mother Becky Shear, were on hand to point out highlights of their restoration work. The parlor was decorated with a Christmas tree and every room was furnished with period furniture to make it ready to receive guests. Their hard work over the last two years is very apparent. They have skillfully blended modernizations (TV in every room, up-to-date appliances) with honoring the past by exposing the original beams and refinishing pocket doors, stair railings, and door casings.

When they cleaned the debris from the area around the window frame in the basement, they found this etching of initials “J.B.&F.T.” and the date “1898.”

Another date found above an upstairs window: 6/16/1898.

Lagro Century Club members who attended were Becky Bowman, Linda Collins, Jane Hatton, Kie Kirk and her husband, Cindy McGuire, Susie Snyder, Carrie Williams, and Arlene Wolfgang and her husband Richard.

Debby Strange, a member of the Lagro Canal Foundation, was also with the group.

A Grief Support g roup 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.

Our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Richard Trobridge.

Lagro Happy Bir thday: Dec. 22 – Suzan Hamilton; Dec. 25 – Noell Gottschalk, Becki Wagoner, and JESUS!

Happy Anniversary: Dec. 24 – Bill and Sharon Miller; Dec. 26 – Doug and Barbara Chopson.

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 p.m. I’d love to share your special day or your com-

An inscription from 1898 was found while renovating The Hopewell House (top photo). Members of the Lagro Century Club gather at the Hopewell House (bottom photo). Photos provided

munity event. Let’s share the news!

Troyer library sets hours for holidays

MERRY CHRISTMAS to everyone! Have enjoyable day in celebrating Jesus Birthday.

TROYER MEMORIAL LIBRARY: Holiday hours are as follows: Closed Dec. 23-26 and Dec. 30-Jan. 2.

DO YOU LIKE TO PLAY

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

LAFONTAINE

LIONS GIVES A BIG THANK YOU to everyone who came and supported the Breakfast for Santa. They

brought estimate over 170 pounds of non-perishable items for the LaFontaine United Methodist Church Food Pantry. The proceeds will also be given to the food pantry. Santa handed out 70 bags of treats to the children.

LAFONTAINE LITERARY CLUB met Dec. 8 in Marion at The Hostess House. Susan Shambaugh gave the meal blessing. The staff served a delicious lunch. Following the meal, a gift exchange was enjoyed with numbers pausing the gifts while Joyce Willcox read a story about Righteous and Lefty.

Announcements

were Lions Breakfast with Santa on December 10. The Mississinewa Valley Band concert December 13. Group was reminded no meeting will be held in January. The group ended meeting singing Christmas Carols,

accompanied by Patricia Walters.

LAFONTAINE

LIONS held their Christmas Party on Thursday Dec. 8. They hosted the Somerset Lions Club and District Governor 25 G Brain Thomas.

Lion President Stephan Polk welcome the District Governor Brain and the Somerset Lions. Then Lion President Stephan asked Past District

Governor Tom Polk to give the blessing for the meal. After the meal Lion President Stephan listed serval Lions members separate for their contribu-

tion too many different functions the Lions have did over the past year. Then he asked District Governor Brain say a few words about Cont. on Pg. 22.

Santa and his helpers Sharon Pattee and Lion Elf Cindy Erb. Photo provided

CHURCH DIRECTORY

ALLIANCE

CORNERSTONE ALLIANCE - 5833E-900N, Roanoke (across from GM Union Hall). Rick Harris, pastor. Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m.

ANGLICAN

RISEN SAVIOR CHURCH - 404 Grayston Ave., Huntington. Rev. Father Rick Leone, senior pastor; Dr. Tom Bergler and Rev. Father Skip Beyer, associate pastors. Worship, Sun. 10 a.m.; Mon. Prayer 9:30 a.m. and Eucharist 11:30 a.m.; Thurs. Prayer 9:30 a.m.

ASSEMBLY OF GOD

BETHEL ASSEMBLY OF GOD - 1640 E. Taylor St., Huntington. Mike Pieart, pastor. Sun. school, 9 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10 a.m.; Wed. adult Bible study, boys & girls ministry, youth, 6:45 p.m.

BAPTIST

FIRST BAPTIST (ABC) - 220 E. Market St., Huntington. Rev. Dianna Teusch, pastor. Sun. school, 9:30 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m. TeamKids (ages K-5th grade), 1:30-3:00 p.m. 2nd and 4th Sundays Sept.-May.

HUNTINGTON BAPTIST (SBC) - 2435 Waterworks Rd., Huntington. Amos Albright, senior pastor; Sam Mock, student and family pastor. Sun. school, 9:15 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.; Wed. service, 6:30 p.m.

WARREN FIRST BAPTIST - 727 N. Wayne St. Rusty Strickler, pastor; Peter and Mindy Fairchild, youth directors. Sun. school, 9 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10 a.m.; Glow youth group (K-5th grade), Tues. 6:30 p.m.; various small groups throughout the week.

CHARITY BAPTIST (Independent) - 6000 Old U.S. 24 (at Lake Clare). Rev. Wally Morris, pastor. Sun. school, 9:30 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.; Wed. prayer meeting, 7 p.m.

BIBLE BAPTIST - 205 Leba Lane, Huntington. Steve Durrwachter, pastor. Sun. worship, 10 a.m.; Sun. Youth Group (5th - 12th gr.), 6:00 p.m. AWANA (3 yrs. to 6th gr.), Wed. 6:30 p.m.; Thurs. youth group, 7 p.m.

FIRST FREE WILL BAPTIST - 1805 Salamonie Ave., Huntington. Brunk Conley, pastor. Sun. school, 10 a.m.; Sun. worship, 11 a.m.

BETHESDA FREE WILL BAPTIST - 116 S. Main St., Andrews. Lou Hunt, pastor. Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.; Sun. school 9:30 a.m. Wed. Bible study, 6:30 p.m.

WABASH PRIMITIVE BAPTIST - C.R. 200E (1-1/2 miles south of U.S. 224), Huntington. Elder John Smith and Elder Phil Nigh, pastors. Worship service 10:30 a.m.

ROANOKE BAPTIST (Independent) - 11015 Lafayette Center Rd. (at I-69 & I-469 exit). Mike Tarr, pastor. Sun. school, 10 a.m.; Sun. worship, 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.; Wed. service, 7 p.m.

GETHSEMANE MINISTRIES CHURCH - 2239 Hartman St., Huntington. Worlie Newsome Jr., pastor. Sun. school 9:30 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.; Wed. Bible study and youth, 6 p.m.

NEW LIFE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH - 313 E. Franklin St., Huntington. Jimi Staton, pastor; Phil Fisher,, youth pastor. Sun. school, 9:30 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m.; Wed. worship, 6:34 p.m.

BRETHREN CHURCH FIRST BRETHREN CHURCH - 245 S. Marion Rd., Huntington. August (Gus) Hacker, pastor. Sunday school, 9:30 a.m.; Sunday worship, 10:30 a.m.

ROANOKE BRETHREN CHURCH - 415 S. Main St., Roanoke. Ken Thompson, pastor. Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m.; Wed. Bible study, 7 p.m. CATHOLIC

ST. MARY CATHOLIC - 903 N. Jefferson St., Huntington. Father Thomas Zehr, pastor. Masses 4 p.m. Sat.; 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sun.; Eucharistic Adoration 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fri.

SS. PETER & PAUL CATHOLIC - 860 Cherry St., Huntington. Father Tony Steinacker, pastor; Masses 5 p.m. Sat.; 8 and 10:30 a.m. Sun.; Eucharistic Adoration 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wed.

ST. JOSEPH’S CATHOLIC - 641 N. Main St., Roanoke. Father Dale Bauman, pastor. Masses 4 p.m. Sat.; 7:30 and 11 a.m. Sun.

ST. CATHERINE’S CATHOLIC - Ind. 9 in Nix Settlement. Father Dale Bauman, pastor. Mass 9:15 a.m. Sun.

CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN

HUNTINGTON CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN - 306 E. Washington St., Huntington. Timothy Troyer, pastor. Sun. worship, 9:45 a.m.; Sun. school, 11 a.m..

TURNPOINTE COMMUNITY CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN - U.S. 224. Sun. fellowship, 9:30 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10 a.m.

ANDREWS CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN - Dan Kochensparger, pastor. E. McKeever St. Sun. worship, 10 a.m.

SALAMONIE CHURCH OF THE BRETHREN - 2662W600S. Mel Zumbrun, pastor. Sun. worship, 9:30 a.m.; Sun. school, 10:45 a.m.

CHURCH OF CHRIST

HUNTINGTON CHURCH OF CHRIST (non-instrumental) - 1105 S. Broadway. Scott Reece, minister. Bible class, 9:30 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m.; Wed. Bible study, 7 p.m.

MARKLE CHURCH OF CHRIST - 455 E. Morse St. Tim Peace, Head Minister. Nathan Palmer, Nick Ridenour, Jason Frisch and Samantha Oakleaf, ministers. Adult Bible study groups Sun. 9 a.m.; Sun. worship 10:30 a.m.; Children’s & students programming both hours.

NORTHVIEW CHURCH OF CHRIST - 2900 N. Jefferson St. Huntington. Brayden Worley, minister. Sunday bible study 9 a.m., Sunday worship 10:30 a.m.

UNIONTOWN CHURCH OF CHRIST - 11419N - 200W, Ossian (1 mi. E, 1/2 mi. S of Zanesville). Erick Riddle, minister. Sun. school, 9 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10 a.m. WARREN CHURCH OF CHRIST - 302 N. Wayne St.

Mickey Strong, senior minister; Andrew Fisher, youth minister. Sun. fellowship, 9:15 a.m.; Sun. worship and communion, 9:30 a.m.; Sun. school, 11-11:50 a.m. Youth: Intersections (middle & high school), Sun. 6-7:30 p.m.; Stepping Stones (elementary), Mon., 6-7 p.m.

CHURCH OF GOD

FAITH COMMUNITY CHURCH OF GOD - 3615 N. Norwood Rd., Huntington. Micah Mobley, pastor; Damon Barnum, youth pastor; Dan First, worship pastor. Sun. worship, 10:15 a.m. faithcchog.org Other Bible studies check our Facebook page

ZANESVILLE COMMUNITY CHURCH OF GOD - 11984 Marzane Rd. Steve Whetstone, pastor. Sun. school, 9 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10 a.m.

CHURCH OF GOD OF PROPHECY HUNTINGTON FAITH CENTER - 1427 E. Market St., Huntington. Tylor Elm, interim pastor. Sun. school, 10 a.m.; Sun. worship, 1 p.m.

EPISCOPAL

CHRIST THE KING EPISCOPAL - 1224 N. Jefferson St., Huntington. The Rev. Ted Neidlinger, pastor. Holy Communion, Sun. 9 a.m.; evening prayer, Thurs., 5:30 p.m.

LATTER-DAY SAINTS

THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS - Southwest corner of U.S. 24 and St. Rd. 9. Sun. services: 1st Ward, Bishop Nathan Haupert, 10:30 a.m.12:30p.m.; 2nd Ward, Bishop Bryan Ringo, 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

LUTHERAN

ST. MARK'S LUTHERAN CHURCH UNIONDALE - 5912 N Sugar St., Uniondale, IN - Rev. Jarrod Ball, Pastor. 10:00 am Sunday worship service, 6:00 pm 2nd and 4th Wednesdays small groups.

ST. PETER LUTHERAN, (Missouri Synod) - 648 N. LaFontaine St., Huntington. Rev. Timothy Lorenz, pastor. Sat. Bible class, 4 p.m., worship, 5 p.m.; Sun. Bible class, 9 a.m., worship service, 10:15 a.m.

ABOITE LUTHERAN - 10312 Aboite Center Rd., Fort Wayne. Rev. Rich Pagan, pastor. Sun. worship, 8:30 and 11 a.m.; Mon worship, 7 p.m.; Adult Bible study (Institute) 9:45 a.m.

FAITH EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH (Missouri Synod) - 3416E - 900N, Roanoke. Rev. Shayne M. Jonker, pastor. Sun. worship, 9 a.m.; Sun. school and Bible class, 10:15 a.m.

NAZARENE

HUNTINGTON FIRST CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE1555 Flaxmill Rd. Bobby Kemp, lead pastor; Kody Hope, Pastor of Student Ministries; Tyler Gates, Pastor of Worship & Discipleship; Christi Bennett, Pastor of Children’s Ministry; Stephen Bennett, Pastoral Care; Lynn Clampitt, Director of Growing Place Preschool - Preschool Ministry; Zach Gibson, Tech Director; Brianna Spurgeon, Office Manager. Sunday School 9:15a.m.; Worship Hour 10:30a.m.

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

CENTRAL CHRISTIAN - 500 MacGahan St., Huntington. Chris Hayden, pastor; Jason Fields, associate pastor; Deneen Fusselman, youth director; Ann Bostel, worship director. Sun. contemporary worship, 10 a.m.; Triple C Kids (K-5th), Wed., 5:30 p.m..; Teen Group Sun., 6 p.m.

CLEAR CREEK COMMUNITY CHURCH - 750 N. Clear Creek Rd., Huntington. Lionel Brubaker, pastor. Sun. worship, 10 a.m.

ABUNDANT FELLOWSHIP - 975 Harris St., Huntington. Matthew Snodderly, pastor. Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m.

UNION CHURCH - 3688E - 400N, Huntington. Rick Hines, lead pastor; Camille Kline, children’s pastor; Trevor Jones, worship & youth leader. Adult services, 8:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.; Sun. school, 9:45 a.m.; Kids worship, 10:45 a.m. LIBERTY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP, 1511 College Ave., Huntington. Rev. Bob & Jean Landers, pastors. Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m., Sun. school 9:15 a.m.; Thurs. prayer service, 5:45 p.m.; Wed. children’s program, 6:30 p.m.; M.O.P.S., 2nd and 4th Tues.Children’s ministry available.

BANQUO CHRISTIAN - 8924S - 900W. Harold Smith, pastor. Sun. school, 9:30 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m.

ST. PAUL’S COUNTY LINE CHURCH - 3995N - 1000W, Andrews. Conrad Thompson, pastor. Sun. school, 9 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10 a.m.; Sun. youth program 6-8 p.m,; Wed. Bible study, 7 p.m.

LIFE CHURCH - 900 E. State St., Huntington. Mike Hill, lead pastor; Keely Oswald, High School youth leader; Sarah Penny, Middle School youth leader; Charity Little, children’s leader. Sun. worship 9:30 and 11:00 a.m., with children’s and youth programming. Café of Hope open daily.

ST. PETER’S FIRST COMMUNITY CHURCH - 206 Etna Ave., Huntington. Adam Jones, pastor; Megan Condry, children’s ministry director. Sun. worship 9:30 a.m.

NEW HOPE MINISTRIES - 1167 N. Seminary St., Roanoke. Jim Graham, pastor. Sun. school, 9:30 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m.

HEALING WATERS MINISTRY - 5811W - 606S, Huntington (in Mt. Etna). Wayne Couch, pastor. Sun. prayer, 9:15 a.m.; Sun. school, 9:30 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m.; Wed. Bible study, 6 p.m.

AWAKENING CHURCH - 235 Safari Trail, Huntington. Chad and Ashlyn Kippert, lead pastors. Worship service Sunday 10:00 a.m.

THE MISSION HOUSE - 734W - 100S (Old Loon Creek Church building). James Splawn, pastor. Sun. school, 9:30 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.; Thurs. worship service, 7 p.m.

BEREA BIBLE CHURCH - 1208 S. Briant St., Huntington. John Robinette, pastor. Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m.

TOWER LIFE CENTER - 11811 N. Wayne St., Zanesville. Tower Life groups Sun., 9:30 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m.

PLEASANT CHAPEL COMMUNITY CHURCH - 880E1100N, Roanoke. Rev. Joel Yeager, pastor. Sun. school, 9 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10 a.m.; Sun. school, 9 a.m.

PENECOSTAL

CHRISTIAN LIFE TABERNACLE - 943 Swan (old Lincoln school building), Huntington. Rev. Richard Fishburn, pastor. Sun. school, 11 a.m.; Sun. worship, 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.; Wed. Bible study, 7 p.m.

HEALING MINISTRIES CGMA - 5012S - 500E, Markle. Zachary Petree, pastor. Sun. worship, 10 a.m.; Tues. worship, 7 p.m.

THE SANCTUARY - 569 Etna Ave., Huntington. Dr. Robert McFarland, pastor. Sun. worship, 11 a.m.; Thurs. worship, 7 p.m.

PRESBYTERIAN

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN - Corner Tipton & Warren. John Beehler, pastor. Sun. worship, 9:30 a.m.

SALVATION ARMY

SALVATION ARMY - 1424 E. Market St. Sun. school 9:30 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10:45 a.m.

SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST

CHAPEL HILL SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST - Ind. 116, Markle. Matt Hasty, pastor. Sabbath school, 9:30 a.m.; Sat. worship, 11 a.m.

UNITED BRETHREN IN CHRIST

COLLEGE PARK UB - 1945 College Ave. Jason Carter, senior pastor. Sunday worship, identical worship services at 9:00 am and 10:30 am.

EMMANUEL COMMUNITY CHURCH - 12222 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne. Dennis R. Miller, lead pastor. Worship times: Sat. 6 p.m., Sun. 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.

NEW HOPE UB - 2001 Engle St., Huntington. Sun. worship, 9:30 a.m.; Sun. school, 11 a.m.; New Hope Kids on Facebook.

DILLMAN CHURCH - 8888S - 1100W - 90, south of Warren. Matt Kennedy, pastor. Sun. worship, 9 a.m.; Sun. school, 10 a.m.

ZANESVILLE UB - 3092 W. Broadway. Ray Seilhamer, pastor. Sun. worship, 10 a.m.; Sun. fellowship and Sermon Sequel, 11 a.m.; Sun. school, 11:15-11:45 a.m.

THE WELL - 1883 Old U.S. 24, Huntington. Josh Kesler, senior pastor. Nick Balsiger, youh pastor. Sun. worship, 10 a.m. Youth Wed. 6-7 p.m. dinner, 7-8:30 p.m. group.

UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

NEW HOPE UCC - Co. Rd. 800N, Bippus. Melinda Kammerer, pastor. Sun. worship, 9:30 a.m.; Sun. children’s church, 10 a.m.; Sun. school, 10:30 a.m.

WARREN UCC - 202 E. Second St. Troy Drayer, pastor. Sun. worship, 9:30 a.m.; Sun. school 10:45 a.m.; Wed. contemporary service, 6:30 p.m.; Wed. youth group, 6 p.m.; Communion 1st Sun.

UNITED METHODIST

TRINITY UM - 530 Guilford St., Huntington. Rev. Jeffrey Taylor, senior pastor. Sun. worship, 10 a.m.; Sun. school, 11:15 a.m.

EVANGELICAL UM - 1000 Flaxmill Rd., Huntington. Rev. Chris Lantz, pastor. Sun. worship time starts at 9:30 a.m. & connection time 10:45 a.m.

BETHEL UM - 629 Riverside Dr., Huntington. Rick Borgman, pastor. Sun. coffee and conversation, 8:30 a.m.; Sun. worship, 9 a.m.

ZION UM - 6276 N. Old Fort Wayne Rd. Heather Parson, pastor. Sun. adult Sun. school, 9 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10 a.m.

SOLID ROCK UM - 485 Bennett Dr., Warren. John Boyanowski, pastor. Sun. school 9 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10:00 a.m.

BIPPUS CALVARY UM - Ind.-105, south side of Bippus. Rev. David Keuhl, pastor. Sun. worship, 10 a.m.

FAITH CHAPEL UM - 300W - 1100N, Huntington. Jason Parsons, pastor. Sun. school, 9 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10 a.m.

PILCHER’S CHAPEL UM - 2039S - 600W. Noel Garza, pastor. Sun. worship, 9:30 a.m.

CHRIST’S UM - 148 W. Third St., Roanoke. Rev. Darrell and Nancy Weigelt. Sun. worship 9 a.m.

SEMINARY UM - 285 N. Seminary St., Roanoke. Blended Service Sunday 10:00 a.m. FACEBOOK Livestream 10:00 a.m. Sundays.

MARKLE UM - 145 W. Morse St., Markle. Dan Hyer, pastor.. Bible school, 9 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10 a.m. Youth meet Sun. 6-8 p.m.

PLEASANT GROVE UM - 500W - 100N. Noel Garza, pastor. Sun. school, 9:30 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m.

HERITAGE POINTE WORSHIP SERVICES - 801 Huntington Ave., Warren. Gerald Moreland, Ginny Soultz and John Moyer, chaplains. Devotions Mon.-Fri. 9-9:15 a.m. Sun. worship, 9:30-10:15 a.m.

WESLEYAN

MT. ETNA COMMUNITY LIFE CHURCH - Corrner of St. Rds. 9 & 124, Mt. Etna. Rev. Michael Gallant, pastor. Sun. multi-generational worship, 9:30 a.m.

HOPE RISING - 1131 Etna Ave., Hgtn. Zack & Carla Working, co-pastors. Sun. worship services, 10:00 a.m.; small groups throughout the week.

LANCASTER WESLEYAN - 3147W - 543S, Lancaster.Phone contact: 260-355-5459. Trevor O’Dell, pastor; Sun. school, 9:30 a.m.; Sun. worship, 10:30 a.m.; Wed. Bible study, 7 p.m.

ARISE - 12220 Lower Huntington Rd., Roanoke. Aldean Pablo, pastor, Sun. worship, 10 a.m.; Kidzone, 10 a.m.

what Lions do and support. Then Lions president Stephan asked District Governor Brain to please present Chevrons to the following LaFontaine Lions: John McDonald, Brad Rody, Tom Willcox, Charles McKinley, Tom and Kim Polk, and Gary Nose. A Chevron is presented for each five years of service. There are two Lions members who served the LaFontaine Community for over 50 years. With no further business to attend to. Lion President Stephan thank the DG 25 Brian and Somerset club for coming.

LAFONTAINE CHRISTIAN CHURCH

Christmas Services will be: Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, 7:30 p.m. Christmas Day worship Service, 10:30 a.m. with No Children’s Classes or Toddler/Infant Nursery. New Year’s Day Service will at 10:30 a.m. Worship Service Only. No Children’s classes or Toddler/Infant Nursery. Everyone is welcome to come and hear the words of the Bible spoken. If you cannot come at any of these services, please come on any other Sundays with first service starts at 9 a.m. and second service starts at 10:30 a.m. There will be Children’s Classes and Toddler/Infant Nursery, but just not on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

IN LAFONTAINE: Grant Creek Mercantile at 17 W Branson St. Are going to be closed until March. If you missed shopping at this store, be sure and put it on your calendar to go in March 2023.

LAFONTAINE

Board met on Monday, Dec. 12 at 6 p.m. Members present was President Jay Gillespie, John Krhin, Lori Brane, Part Time Town clerks Teresa Snyder, Marti Baed, Town Marshall Dustin Hurst, and attorney Jordon Tandy. President Jay opens the meeting followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Approved November minutes. Rob from Common Wealth Engineers presented invoices to be paid and update on work for WW Project. This was approved.

Dustin gave the Marshal report and request to have same equipment bought. This was approved. Fire Dept and Utility, ClerkTreasure Reports was given. Town Board members signed Zoning Agreement and invoice to Sullivan for line repair.

Table Request from Babe and Wabash Community Foundation. Board members passed Sign 2023 Salary ordinance and Salary Amendment. No new business. Meeting adjoined.

LAFONTAINE/

LIBERTY FIRE DEPARTMENT

are selling Reflective Address Signs that go on your mailbox. These signs help Firefighters, First Responders, Police, Postal Couriers, Friends and Family and more. The response time of emergency service is important since it is considered as the main aspect for the success of the prehospital care and therefore, for the survival of the victims. If we can’t find you, we can’t help you. Reflective Address Signs can save lives. These signs highly visible day or night. Reflective on both sides. Fade and rust resistant and last for years. If you do not have one you should be sure a get one. Contact

LaFontaine Liberty Vol. Fire Dept. 125 Wabash Av. P.O. Box 334 LaFontaine, IN 46940 or call 765981-4000. This would be a GREAT GIFT for someone who does not have one.

ON MONDAY, JAN. 9 at 6:00 pm in LaFontaine Town Hall at the LaFontaine Town Council Meeting, Alex Downard from the Imagine One 85 initiative will present the final version of the countywide comprehensive plan to the Council and will be available after the meeting to answer any questions or discuss the plan’s implementation further with anyone from the community. To view, download, or learn more about the

Imagine One 85 plan you can visit imagineone85.org or by emailing Alex at alex@downarddevstrategies.com

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Ed Harrison Dec. 20, Valarie Law, Brent Wente Dec. 25, Pam White Dec. 26, Patty Harrison, Gaya Snyder, Amy Long Dec. 29

HAPPY

ANNIVERSARY

Brad and Missy Wright Dec. 22, Will and Jackie

Carpenter Dec. 27 Bill and Debbie VanCamp Dec. 28

Car club has Christmas party

Rebel Rouser Car Club of Indiana had its annual Christmas dinner/meeting and gift exchange on Dec. 10, at the Urbana Lion/Community building. There were 22 members present. There were several members that were unable to be at the party due to other commitments.

The Christmas dinner was a carryin. The main part of the dinner was baked pork loin with gravy, cheesy potatoes and green beans. This was prepared by Bonita Snell. Other members brought in other dishes to go along with the main entrée. Food items were such things as deviled eggs, corn casserole, cheese tray and other delicious food items. There were a lot of deserts that added a few extra pounds.

Michael Snell gave the blessing and everyone ate until they were content. After the meal, Jess Gressley, club president, opened the meeting. Katelyn Williams, club secretary, read the minutes from the last meeting then Michael Snell, club treasurer, gave a report on the club’s finances. Members then discussed where they would go for the next meeting in January 2023.

After the short meeting, the club

played a Christmas trivia game. One of the trivia questions was about Santa’s reindeer. This is fact not fiction. Did you know that scientists believe that all of Santa’s reindeer are female. Wow! Does this throw you a curve or what? Here is why, the male reindeer, during the winter months lose their antlers. This was surprising. This was a fact I didn’t know and I’ll bet you didn’t either. If you tell your kids, I can imagine what they will think. Anyway, after the fun with trivia the gift exchange took place. It was a fun filled evening with the Rebels.

Everyone enjoyed the food and had a great time.

If you are into old cars and would like to belong to a club that enjoys old and new cars alike, then the Rebel Rouser Club is where it’s at. You can contact Jess at 260-782-2176 for more information.

Members of the Rebel Rousers of Indiana Car Club Inc. would like to wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas.

Condolences to Myra Robinett family and friends from the Snell family. To Thomas Spiece family and friends from Michael and Bonita Snell.

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 Cont. on Pg. 24.

Members of the Rebel Rouser Car Club. Photo provided

Summers, Paxton Wright, Jim and Pat Hartley, Coy Eads and his parents and sisters, Joni Fox, Joe Adams, Ronnie Anderson, our Nation and the leaders, our military personnel, our frontline responders and health providers.

The Breakfast Bunch met at the Fried Egg on Dec. 14, 2022 around 7:30. They try to meet every Wednesday and have breakfast together and talk about what is happening. Those attending were Tom and Joyce Willcox, Larry and Nancy Meyer, Amy

Niccum and Pat McNabney. Come on down and check them out.

Birthday wishes Michael Snell Dec. 22, Clayton Chamberlain Dec. 22, Nancy Anderson Dec. 24, Aaron Mattern Dec. 26 and Nancy Chamberlain Dec. 29.

ECHO Racing is coming around turn 4 and is about to cross the finish line. On Jan. 14, 2023, the races will start. Racing will be held at the Urbana

Lion/Community building starting at 2 p.m. ECHO first race of the New Year will be Drag Racing. So mark

your calendars for this event. ECHO Racing is open to all youth 7-16 years of age and is totally free. This is sponsored by the Urbana Lions Club. Awards will be issued for 1st, 2nd and 3rd in both A & B Classes. Everyone is invited to come and see what ECHO Racing is about. There is no cost to the parents, grandparents or guardians who would like to attend and see what ECHO

is all about. This will be ECHO Racings 12th season, so come on down and check us out.

Christmas Gift: Everyone ask for gifts this time of year. Remember this; no greater gift could be given and no greater love could be shown than when God the Father gave mankind Jesus Christ. Merry Christmas from the Urbana Columnist.

STATE OF INDIANA ) IN THE CIRCUIT COURT ) SS: COUNTY OF WABASH ) CAUSE NO: 85C01-2212-EU-000107

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF TODD EUGENE BAER DECEASED

NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION

In the Circuit Court of Wabash County, Indiana

Notice is hereby given that Angela Delauter and Lisa Hearn were on the 1st day of December, 2022, appointed as CoPersonal Representatives of the Estate of Todd Eugene Baer, deceased, who died on the 7th day of November, 2022.

All persons who have claims against this estate, whether or not now due, must file the claim in the office of the Clerk of this Court within Three (3) months from the date of the first publication of this notice, or within Nine (9) months after the decedent’s death, whichever is earlier, or the claims will be forever barred.

Dated at Huntington, Indina, this 1st day of December, 2022.

Loir J. Draper Clerk of the Wabash Circuit Court For Wabash County, Indiana

Attorney For Estate: Joseph W. Eddingfield, #8421-85 84 West Market Street P.O. Box 294 Wabash, Indiana. 46992 (206) 563-115412/14, 12/21/22

3,160 square foot home setting on 1.75 acres with mature trees, new landscaping, sidewalks, and yard.

Rural setting, low traffic road located three miles north of Wabash, ‘under five minutes’ drive to town and Metro elementary and high schools.

Two car garage, overhead doors, openers, and work bench. Paved driveway with 4,000 square foot parking area. 400 square foot carpeted enclosed sunroom. All exterior newly painted. All interior rooms new paint. New vinyl casement windows with screens throughout entire home ($16,000). New 95% efficient L.P. furnace and air conditioning ($18,000). New LED lighting in all interior rooms. Existing hardwood floors refinished (3 bedrooms) with balance of home with new carpet or waterproof laminate. Large master bedroom with full bath, additional full bath plus two ½ baths all remodeled with new vanities, faucets, mirrors, lighting. Kitchen has Maple solid wood cabinets. Included appliances – fridge, double oven, new 5 burner cooktop, dishwasher, washer and dryer, electric water heater and an Ecosystem Water Softener. Maplestained doors and woodwork throughout home. Large 730 sq. ft. room on southside could be additional bedrooms, mother-in-law suite or a great game room. Three entry doors with new outdoor porch carpet, storm doors, new locksets that are all keyed alike. Lots of closets and storage space above the garage.

Additional: Bonus Building of 1200 square feet that was previously an accountant’s office. This has new vinyl siding, new windows, new L.P. heater and air conditioning. There is a one-half bath. This could be designed for an apartment, mother-in-law suite, hobby room, office or?? Pole Building is 48’ x 72’, with an 18’ x 14’ sliding door and a 36” walk door. Exterior sides and roof painted this summer, stone base, lights, and electricity. Could be used for storage of a boat, RV, extra vehicle, trailers, horse or small animals. One Quarter Acre Garden that was fall tilled and planted with a fall rye cover crop.