child care facility located in two rooms at Mentone Elementary School.
VELA has served the kids of Tippecanoe Valley School Corp. staff for two years, but is now open to the general public as well after becoming licensed recently.
Parents may enroll their kids immediately or for the upcom-
ing year, with ages 6 weeks to 3 years old served. If parents are signing up their kids for the upcoming year, their kids must be the previously listed ages by Aug. 1.
Children will be placed into two rooms: 6 weeks to 16 months and 17 months to 3 years.
The facility is led by VELA Co-
ordinator Courtney Kindig and VELA Director and TVSC Director of Special Services Meagan Wilks. They’re assisted by two lead teachers and an assistant teacher, with the corporation working on hiring another assistant teacher.
Kindig said more staff could be
Continued on page 2
RIBBON CUTTING The Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce had a ribbon-cutting for the Valley Early Learning Academy on Thursday, Jan. 16. The child care facility is located in Mentone Elementary School. Shown from left are Chamber Member Relations Manager Scott Wiley; Chamber Ambassadors Dawn Jaggers, Raquel Kline and Karen Kauffman; VELA Coordinator Courtney Kindig; Chamber Ambassador Russ
Vance; VELA Director and TVSC Director of Special Services Meagan Wilks; Kosciusko County Community Foundation Senior Program Officer Amy Cannon; LaunchPad Director Sherry Searles; Chamber Ambassador Bryttenny Sands; Chamber Events Coordinator Nora Christiansen; and Chamber President and CEO Rob Parker.
A HAPPY BUNCH LeeAnna Miller, VELA assistant teacher, is shown with some of the youngsters enjoying a break. Photo provided by the Kosciusko County Chamber of Commerce.
A VIEW OF VELA’S TODDLER ROOM
Mayor loves helping others be successful in the community
By LAURIE LECHLITNER Staff Writer
“Our family farm is in northwest Howard County,” stated Trent Odell. “My parents bought a vacation lake house in Rochester in the 1990s. I enjoyed the area and bought my own lake house in 2012. I own Odell Lumber and Supply in Rochester.
“Several years ago, I was considering my involvement in the community. The thought occurred to me, ‘I think I might enjoy being mayor, helping others in the community be successful.’” This January marks Odell’s first anniversary as mayor of Rochester.
“I feel like my work as mayor is a calling,” Odell said. “Some of the high points of this year are the partnerships that have developed in the community.
“Starting this past September, I’ve been scheduling bimonthly meetings to bring together those in organizations in the community, such as the redevelopment commission, downtown partnership, the community foundation, FEDCO, Rochester schools, the chamber, and those from Lighted Pathways. We spend the time at our meetings discussing how we can help one another with plans for the year. It opens the lines of communication and cooperation in the community.”
A couple of goals Odell is work-
ing on is attracting companies to settle in Rochester and creating good jobs for the citizens. He’s also focusing on decent housing at affordable prices. “We’re working on a senior living complex and additional apartments for people needing housing.”
Odell continued, “I enjoy the opportunity to help those in the community. I’m in a position to help them as I work with others in the particular branches of government. Collaboration is the key. When we work together toward common goals, we’re able to coordinate efforts to make the community better.”
A typical day for Odell starts in the morning. “On those mornings that I don’t have meetings I come to the office and check my emails and phone messages. I prioritize my responsibilities for that day. My department heads often share with me what they are doing. My office door is always open for staff members with concerns or questions. I also attend business dedications and other celebrations in the community.”
One of the organizations Odell has a special place in his heart for is the Celebrate Recovery organizations. “I want those who are struggling to know that I’m on their side and working for their benefit.”
This year, a church a month, through March, is providing a
PARTNERS Trent and Stacy Odell have been married 39 years. After a mentally challenging day as mayor of Rochester, Trent loves coming home to his lovely wife. The couple have two grown daughters and five grandchildren. Photo provided by Trent Odell.
temporary warming shelter for those who are homeless or are unable to get out of the elements.
The city of Rochester has gone for some years without a hike in their utility bill. “I am working for other ways to lower the cost of living. But our utilities bills will go up this year for the added cost of operations and needed maintenance. That’s a challenge we’ll all face together.”
One of the things Odell learned in a hurry is there are mental challenges and stresses as mayor that are quite different than his responsibilities as a farmer or business owner. “Working on the farm or at my lumber business makes me physically tired. But going home from my time as mayor makes me mentally tired. But it’s always a great honor to serve.”
He and his wife Stacy have been married 39 years. They have two grown daughters and five grandchildren. Odell loves spending time with his family on the lake.
• 24/7
Valley Early
added as needed.
Continued from page 1 ting that LaunchPad received a grant from Early Learning Indiana, which has helped VELA.
“We are almost full already, and we have a wait list for next year,” said Kindig of the demand thus far, adding staff are “pleasantly surprised with that outcome.”
“We are excited for the future,” she said.
Kindig thanked LaunchPad, an organization which works to promote child care and early childhood education in Kosciusko County, for its help.
“LaunchPad has been an instrumental part of creating these (child care) programs (in area schools),” she said. “(LaunchPad Director) Sherry Searles is a huge part of getting (us) the training and just advocating for us as well.”
Searles said after the ribbon-cut-
Correction
Information in the Updates and Happenings section in the Jan. 15 issue of The Shopping Guide News regarding The Chain Gang was incorrectly listed. The Chain Gang meets at the Akron Public Library, 205 E. Rochester St., Akron. We apologize for the error.
“It’s definitely been an effort of lots of people (to get VELA open and licensed), and we’re very thankful to have this not only for your staff, but now for the community,” she said.
The Kosciusko County Community Foundation also has helped VELA with grant funding.
Kindig said the cost for infant care is $167.50 weekly and toddler care $152.50 weekly currently, with meals being an additional expense.
She said that’s “low” compared to the current market rate. People may also utilize state Child Care and Development Fund vouchers for their kids to attend VELA.
Kindig said VELA provides “a high-quality early childhood experience where we advocate for the children and we cater to the children’s health, safety and wellness.”
“Our curriculum is High Scope, so it’s very play-based and child-centered, so the children are able to make those choices and learn boundaries, with the guidance of the teacher and the classroom,” she said.
Kindig said having VELA at Mentone especially helps kids who will one day be in elementary school in the building adjust to the location.
•
•
A submission by James-Francois Ziegler published on page 5 in the Dec. 18 issue of The Shopping Guide News titled ‘Santa has some friends on the bayou’ inadvertently contained incorrect wording.
To schedule a tour of the facility, people should email Kindig at kindigcou@tvsc.k12.in.us. They may learn more by going to tvsc.k12. in.us and choosing the Valley Early Learning Academy tab.
Good Neighbors
Good Neighbors is a column in which readers share friendly advice. To ask or answer questions, write ‘the PAPER’, Good Neighbors, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542; fax 800-886-3796; or e-mail abias@the-papers.com. Please no phone calls.
Editor’s Note: The Good Neighbors column is for people looking for hard-to-find or old items or for people seeking advice, not for items you can find in a local store or sell through the help of a classified ad. This column will now run every other week.
Toshiba TV
Good neighbors: I have a Toshiba 20-inch analog color TV with digital/analog converter. Like new condition, hardly used. Free. If interested, reply through this column. I live in the Wakarusa area. I will call you. — A reader
New questions
Used washer — We are in need of a used washer. A smaller size would be OK, as well as larger ones. Does not have to be anything fancy, but needs to be in working condition. Let us know if you have one that
you are no longer using. Call (574) 312-5228 and leave a voicemail if I don’t pick up.
Sugar cane mill — I have a Golden’s No. 12 sugar cane mill that I’d like restored, but it is missing the bottom boxes for both journal rollers. Does anyone know where these can be made or found? I think they might be the same as Golden’s No. 2 mill. Leave a message at (574) 607-7292.
Wooden interior doors — Wanted: Two, 32inch wooden interior doors with glass panels or French doors. Call (574) 223-3457.
Used water softener — Wanted: Good, used water softener. Call (260) 593-0506.
Charcoal grill — Wanted: A good charcoal grill of some sort. Call (260) 593-0506.
Woodlawn Health announces new chief nursing officer
Woodlawn Health announces Cathy Lowe as the new chief nursing officer.
Lowe brings a wide range of experience and expertise from multiple universities. Her education began at FTCC, with an associate degree in nursing, then completed her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing at Indiana University Kokomo. These degrees are followed by a Master’s in Business Administration, Master of Science in nursing, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree.
“I love how friendly everyone is at Woodlawn. It feels like a close-
knit community,” she stated. Lowe is honored to return to her hometown and give back to the community where she grew up.
The administration and leadership team at Woodlawn Health is excited to add Lowe’s experience and expertise to the hospital and clinic teams.
“We are thrilled to welcome Cathy Lowe as our Chief Nursing Officer. Her extensive experience in nursing and leadership will be invaluable as we continue to provide exceptional care and support to our team,” Alan Fisher, CEO of Woodlawn Health, stated.
Let’s Study The Bible —
The Christian’s marching orders
(Read: Mark 16:14-20)
“And (Jesus) said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15).
By THE REV. RON PURKEY
First, An Unlimited Mandate (Mark 16:1518). Each of the four Gospels ends with a commission from Christ to his church to carry the Gospel message to the ends of the earth (Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 24:46-49; John 20:21-23; and see Acts 1:8).
The emphasis in verse 16 is not on baptism but on believing. In the early church, believing on Jesus Christ led to a public declaration of faith in the ordinance of water baptism (Acts 8:36-38; 10:47-48), and being baptized sometimes cost people their family, friends, and job. If water baptism is essential to salvation, then nobody in the OT was saved; Hebrews 11 tells us that OT saints were saved by faith.
The special signs described in verses 17-18 applied primarily to the apostolic age (Hebrews 2:3-4; 2 Corinthians 12:12) and are recorded in the Book of Acts: These signs were the credentials of the apostles (verse 20), but it is not necessary to perform miracles in order to serve the Lord (John 10:39-42). Our mandate is still to take the Gospel to the whole world, and we have a long way to go!
Second, An Unchanging Ministry (Mark 16:19-20). Having completed his work on earth, Jesus returned to the father in heaven; and there he represents us as our high priest (Hebrews 4:14-16) and advocate (1 John 2:1-2). But he does more than represent us; he also works in us and through us to accomplish the mandate he left with his church.
Since the Gospel of Mark emphasizes Christ the servant, it is only right that the book close with this reminder that God’s servant is still at work! He works in us (Hebrews 13:20-21; Philippians 2:12-13), with us (verse 20), and for us (Romans 8:28) if we will allow Him to work through us by the power of His Holy Spirit.
Insight: Concerning Mark 16:920, Good and godly evangelical Bible scholars do not agree on the authenticity of the closing verses of Mark’s Gospel. Some believe they are a part of the original text while others think they were added by another author as a “summary” because the original text was lost. (It is difficult to believe that a part of inspired Scripture could be lost.) It must be admitted the vocabulary and style are not Mark’s and the passage is lacking in the two oldest manuscripts. Some of the early church fathers quoted from this passage, showing that they knew it existed and that they trusted it. If these verses do not constitute the ending of Mark’s Gospel, then we must accept the abrupt ending of verse 8 and with it, an incomplete record. Since there is nothing in these verses that is contrary to anything else in Scripture, it seems reasonable to accept them as historically authentic and live with the “mysteries” that surround them. Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines free at rcpbibleoutlines. com. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.
CATHY LOWE
Loyal D. Bailey Jr.
Former Medallion Cabinetry Employee
Loyal D. Bailey Jr. 61, Culver, passed away at 12:10 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17, 2025 at Hickory Creek, Peru.
He was born on Nov. 12, 1963, in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Loyal D. and Gloria Mae (Hall) Bailey Sr.
After graduating from high School, he went to Triton College for police science and pledged to Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. After receiving his degree, he was security for Oprah Winfrey and then a police officer in Chicago Housing. Later, he furthered his education by attending chauffeur truck driving academy and drove trucks for a number of years. His last job was at Medallion Cabinetry in Culver, for four years serving as a vault technician.
Due to his health, the love of his life, Brooke Gardner, took care of him for many years. In his spare time, he liked to spend time with his grandchildren and watch movies with his children.
Survivors include his children, Brianna Bailey (Dakota Leckrone), Fort Wayne, Chantelle Rospopo, South Bend, Cameron (Marley Watson) Bailey, Peru and Brandon (Briauna) Himes, Indiana; stepchildren, Cameron (Sarah Schoof) Gardner, Knox and Evan Gardner, Indiana; grandchildren, Maleyah Bailey, Malik Bailey, Leah Gardner, Nevaeh Miller, Berklee Gardner, Harlan Himes, Londyn Himes, Loren Himes, Ryan Himes, Tre’Shawn Daniels and Jaiden Daniels; sister, Margo Williams, Chicago, Ill.; brother, Demarco Williams, Chicago, Ill.; and several nieces and nephews. Loyal will be greeted at the pearly gates of heaven by his soulmate, Brooke Gardner; parents; and grandmother, Leonteen Hall.
Private services will be conducted at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester.
Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery, Monterey.
Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh.com,
Tim Sosbe
New Holland Employee
Tim Sosbe, 68, Rochester, was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away in the evening of Jan. 12, 2025, at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne.
On March 3, 1956, in Kokomo, Timothy Ray Sosbe was born. He was a treasured son of Charles W. and Wilma L. Gollner Sosbe. Growing up he shared his childhood with two sisters, Debora and Linda and a brother Chuck. As a Wildcat, Tim graduated with his class from Kokomo High School in 1975.
In Rochester, on July 14, 1979, Tim married the love of his life Miss Debbie B. Wagoner in Rochester’s First Christian Church. They enjoyed over 45 years of life’s adventures. From their union came a beautiful daughter Stacey. The family tree continued to grow with the added blessing of granddaughter Ella Sophia.
With a strong and dedicated work ethic, Tim worked as an engine builder and was head of the midget division for nationally known Gaerte Engines. He ascended with great skills and ability to build high performance engines, becoming recognized as a premier builder. During those years he accompanied racing icons Earl Gaerte and A. J. Foyt, hanging out in the garage and in the pits during the month of May at many Indy 500’s. Tim continued to build engines for stellar racing teams. As an accomplished midget driver, Tim applied the heat by putting the hammer down and challenging anyone who dared to get near to him. He was successful and revered driving to many wins. On Stacey’s arrival, Tim hung up his helmet and with great happiness joyfully embraced his role as being a Daddy.
Applying his knowledge and skills, Tim became a member of a new team, Rochester’s New Holland. He was the parts manager and a technician for the last 13 years. In the past few years resuming his love for speed, Tim formed his engine building company, Speed Engines. Once again building engines for top drivers, giving them the racer’s edge.
Relaxing in his recliner, Tim was a sports enthusiast. He loved all types of racing, IU basketball, everything Notre Dame, and “Da Bears.” Tim found immense joy in being the proudest fan in the stands, cheering on his beloved nieces and nephews at their sporting events. Above all, he cherished his role as “Cheer Grampy,” traveling far and wide to support his granddaughter Ella as she competed in cheerleading. His unwavering enthusiasm and love for his family made every game and competition an unforgettable celebration. His greatest love was being with his family. He experienced great fortune always surrounding himself with three amazing women, Debbie, Stacey and Ella.
Tim will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Debbie; daughter, Stacey Papandria (Chris); sisters, Linda Wagoner (Mike) all of Rochester, Debora Piercy (Stanley), Chuck Sosbe (Karen), all of Kokomo; granddaughter, Ella Sophia Papandria; nieces and nephews, Chris, Jennifer, Nikki, Nathan, Lindsey, Dan, Boyd, Adam and Errin; numerous great-nieces and nephews; Tim’s work family at New Holland; his felines, Susie and Maci; and the granddogs, Bindi and Dita.
A celebration of the life of Timothy “Tim” Sosbe was held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 W. 18th Street, Rochester.
Preferred memorials may be made in Tim’s name to The Fulton County Animal Education and Adoption Center, 1540 Wentzel St., Rochester, IN 46975.
Online expressions may be made to his family at goodfamilyfh.com.
David Lee King
McNeal Construction Employee
David Lee King 60, Rochester, passed away Monday Jan. 13, 2025, at his residence.
He was born on Oct. 30, 1964, in Noblesville, the son of Charles Bill and Marilyn Faye (Spencer) King. He attended Hamilton Heights High School, Arcadia.
David had been a carpenter working for McNeal Construction for many years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, cars and old collectible items.
Survivors include his daughters, Jennifer Nicole (Chris) Thompson, Noblesville and Jessica Marie (Antioco) Mattox Rivera, Westfield; grandchildren, Emmelean Breanne Wallace, Kadance Berlin Wallace, Corwin Dean Thompson, Alynza Marie Rivera and Kinsley Mae Rivera; sister, Tina Graviett, Oran, Mo.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Rick A. King. Memorial services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 26, at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester. Friends may visit one hour prior to services in the funeral home.
Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh.com.
John Patrick Gartland Jr.
John Patrick Gartland Jr. 68, Rochester, passed away at 8:03 p.m. Friday, Jan. 10, 2025, at his residence.
He was born on Aug. 16, 1956, in Peru, the son of John Patrick and Ann Zara (Gardner) Gartland Sr. On Feb. 14, 1997, in Negril, Jamaica, he married Ellen Roper, and she survives.
John had retired as Project Supervisor for Miller Electric Company based out of Jacksonville, Fla., and had been a member of the Moose Lodge. He enjoyed fishing, socializing with family and friends, reading and was an avid Notre Dame football fan.
Survivors include his wife, Ellen Gartland, Rochester; son, Karl Gartland, Cassopolis, Mich.; grandchildren, John Partick Gartland IV, Granger, Jalynn Gartland, Buchanan, Mich., Isabella Gartland and Mark Gartland, both of Cassopolis, Mich., Meagan Jane Williams, Marietta, Ga.; siblings, Nancy Spitznagle, Peru, Kathryn Caldwell, Indiana, Diane (George) Goodrich, Ariz., Elaine Mishler, Texas, Jeanne (Karl) Houck, Noblesville and Bill Gartland, Marion; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, John Patrick Gartland III; and stepson, Ken Williams.
No services are scheduled at this time.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Rochester Moose Lodge.
Arrangements by Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester. Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh. com.
Robert A. Ault
Former R.R. Donnelley and Lobdell Emery Employee
Robert A. Ault, 82, Rochester, passed away at 9:49 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025, at Woodlawn Health, Rochester.
He was born on May 3, 1942, in Plymouth, the son of Charles and Mary (Swihart) Ault. After graduating from Argos High School in 1960, Robert enlisted in the Indiana National Guard and obtained the rank of second lieutenant.
In his professional career, he worked as a lineman for Sprint, spent over 10 years at R.R. Donnelley, Warsaw and worked for over 20 years at Lobdell Emery, Argos. He had also been a Singer sewing machine repairman. He had been a member of the N.R.A. and the Walnut Church of the Brethren, Argos. In his spare time he enjoyed reading, anything pertaining to history, politics, (ZF1) and spending time with his family.
Survivors include his daughter, Angela (Ethan) Haines, Rochester; son, Charles (Stephanie) Ault, Tippecanoe; grandchildren, Micheal Donahue, Warsaw, Noah (Shelby) Ault, Silver Lake, Keegan Laird, Rochester, Ayden (Isabella) Ault, Silver Lake, Aubrey (Cameron) Skiles, Rochester and Alyssa Haines, Silver Lake; 10 great- grandchildren, soon to be 12; and brother, Larry Ault, Huntington.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and son, Anthony “Tony” Ault.
Funeral services will be conducted at noon Monday, Jan. 20, at the Walnut Church of the Brethren, 5975 19th Road, Argos. Friends may visit two hours prior to the services in the church.
Burial will follow in the church cemetery, with military rites conducted by the Fulton County Veterans’ Honor Guard.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Fulton County Public Library. Arrangements by Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester. Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh.com.
Jerry W. Miller
Jerry W. Miller, 74, formerly of Rochester, died at 9:03 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025, at The Waters, Peru.
He was born on Oct. 24, 1950, in Blytheville, Ark.
He is survived by several nieces; nephews; great-nieces; great-nephews; and great-great-nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; loving companion of 30 years, Anita M. Scuffham; sister, Elleyese Hunt; nephew, Bobby Hughes; niece, Tina Hughes; and great-nephew, Arthur Halper.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 27, at Hartzler Funeral Home, 305 W. Rochester St., Akron.
Interment will take place following the service in the Akron Cemetery, Akron.
Friends may visit two hours prior to the services in the funeral home.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron.
Barbara J. Rhoads
Barbara J. Rhoads, 77, Rochester, died at 8:13 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025, at Life Care Center, Rochester. Arrangements by Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester.
Janice Marie Emery
Janice Marie Emery 89, Swannanoa, N.C., and formerly of Twelve Mile, died Sunday, January 19, 2025, at her residence.
Arrangements by Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester.
Philip Eugene Snook
Philip Eugene Snook, 81, Rochester Arrangements have entrusted to Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester.
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Circuit Court, Judge Arthur Christopher Lee presiding: Complaints
Discover Bank v. Lauren Shaffer, Akron, $6,939.64
Midland Credit Management, Derra Blosser, Akron, $1,192.22 Superior Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Superior Court, Judge Gregory L. Heller presiding: Complaint
OneMain Financial Group v. Matthew Mappin, Rochester, $12,594.39 LVNV Funding v. Darlina Clingler, Rochester, $685.93; Keith Koser, Akron, $1,193.56; Angela Oden, Rochester, $1,530.61; Peggy Vanmeter, Rochester, $5,980.62
Capital One N.A. v. Heshy Bock, Rochester, $5,371.35
Prestige Financial Services, INC v. Christina Davis, Rochester, $11,171.08
Citibank N.A. v. Stacie Collins, Culver, $2,225.31
Credit Acceptance Corporation v. John Postma, Fort Wayne, $12,936.47; Michael Lower, Corunna, $15,652.80 Mariner Finance LLC v. Lauro Martinez, Akron, $2,418.43 Traffic Violations
The following fines and levies were paid in Fulton County courts: Failure to change lanes for au-
ROBERT A. AULT
Avid Notre Dame Football Fan
JOHN PATRICK GARTLAND JR.
JERRY W. MILLER
DAVID LEE KING
LOYAL D. BAILEY JR.
TIM SOSBE
Medicaid caps and tax relief top Senate Republican list
By CASEY SMITH AND WHITNEY DOWNARD Indiana Capital Chronicle
Indiana’s Senate Republicans pegged property tax relief as its top priority during the 2025 legislative session — but leadership cautioned that a firm plan is still far from being codified.
The majority caucus, which unveiled its new agenda on Jan. 8 is also promising to address rising Medicaid costs, water resource management and state contract accountability.
Meanwhile, lawmakers in the House also convened on the session’s first day, and House Democrats shared their priorities.
Senate Majority Leader Rodric Bray emphasized that the 2025 session will, above all else, center around the next state budget. Given Indiana’s cooling economy, he said crafting a new two-year spending plan will be “particularly challenging.”
“Our revenue growth, while positive, is not at the record levels that we saw in recent years. We’re also grounded with a Medicaid budget trying to explode, and inflation that is causing the cost of just about every function of government to increase,” Bray continued.
“Nevertheless, Senate Republicans are committed to passing another balanced budget this year.”
Sen. Travis Holdman, R-Markle, said Senate Bill 1 will be the primary property tax relief ve-
hicle this session — a response to Gov.-elect Mike Braun’s proposed tax reforms.
The senator said the measure, in its first draft, follows Braun’s four-pillar plan that includes immediate property tax cuts for homeowners, as well as the introduction of a cap to limit future growth. Other portions of Braun’s proposal include transparency on tax calculations and reforming the tax referendum process.
The bill’s exact language has yet to be published, however.
Senate GOP staff said priority measures aren’t expected to go online until early next week.
“Property taxes are always a topic of conversation in this building, but they’ve been especially prominent in recent years. In Indiana, we’re fortunate to have low property taxes, but many Hoosiers have been understandably frustrated by large, year-over-year increases in the bills,” Holdman said, adding that property tax relief was a top campaign issue during the 2024 gubernatorial race.
With “a lot of ideas on the table” from other senators and the House, Holdman said a final property tax bill is likely to be piecemeal and incorporate elements from those other proposals.
“I fully expect this bill to change as it moves to the Senate, the House … Together, we are committed to providing property needs to Hoosiers, but we’ve
C ounty R epo R t
Continued from page 4
thorized emergency vehicle, fails to move over one lane — Jaswinder Singh, Grand Rapids, Mich., $165
Operating a motor vehicle without financial responsibility — Samuel Flenner, Rochester, $175, $164.50
Operating with expired plates — Marcus Pope, Rochester, $164
Operating with expired plates, speeding — Rhoni Paige, Indianapolis, $179.50
$164.50; Lizabeth La Rosa, Mishawaka, $164.50; Daniel Mcguire, Glenview, Ill., $175; Jimmy Person, Indianpolis, $165; Emil Revilla, Chicago, Ill., $175; Sebastian Church, Nappanee, $175; Nery De La Paz, Marietta, Ga., $154.50; Kayla Dupuy, Highland, $175; Adrianna Ernstberger, Indianapolis, $154.50; Rose Jacobson, Monterey, $154.50; Yoshikazu Tsutsui, New York, N.Y., $154.50; Kyle Kent, Westfield, $164.50; Isabel Grove, Granger, $165.50
The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in Fulton County courts:
Boros — Steve Boros, Kewanna, and Danielle Boros, Mishawaka. With minor children.
Miller — John Miller, Monticello, and Chelsea Miller, Kewanna. With minor children.
Gross — Ronald Gross, Akron, and Sherry Gross, Rochester. No minor children.
also got to balance the needs for schools and local units of governments like counties, cities, towns and townships,” Holdman said. “Our goal is to find a sweet spot for this bill.”
Medicaid Proposal
Another priority bill would introduce a cap to the state’s Healthy Indiana Plan, an expansion of traditional Medicaid to cover moderate-income Hoosiers who can’t afford other options.
Sen. Ryan Mishler’s proposal would limit the number of enrollees to 500,000 — below the 692,028 beneficiaries currently on HIP — and limit Hoosiers to 36 months of coverage over their lifetime.
“Keep in mind that this is childless adults that are able-bodied, working individuals that are on this plan and will continue to be on this plan,” said Mishler, R-Mishawaka. “… There’s a lot of work to be done with Medicaid, but I think this bill is a start to work with the administration and get that under control.”
The fiscal impact of the legislation is uncertain, as 90% of HIP’s costs are covered by the federal government and the remaining 10% is funded by a hospital provider tax and cigarette tax.
Additionally, the bill would also reintroduce work requirements — something that would have to be approved by the federal government — with limited exceptions. Mishler didn’t rule out the possibility that the proposal would create another waitlist.
“If you want to take away waitlists, then you have to say, ‘Do we want to cut education to
not have waitlists? I mean, those are the decisions we’ll face here,” Mishler said.
House Democrats disagreed.
“Where there’s a will, there’s a way,” said House Minority Leader Phil GiaQuinta.
GiaQuinta, D-Fort Wayne, and his colleagues pointed to a plan to expand school vouchers to the wealthiest Hoosiers as well as dollars sent to the Indiana Economic Development Corp. as potential sources of funding for Medicaid and public school priorities.
Eliminating waitlists, which include seniors, disabled Hoosiers and parents seeking child care, is one of the goals for the caucus in 2024 alongside property tax relief and “fully funding” public schools.
Cracking Down on Water,
Vendor Performance
Another Senate priority bill seeks to require permitting for basin-to-basin water transfers and other large, long distance water pipeline projects. The move comes amid a contentious debate over a pipeline to pump water from an aquifer in Tippecanoe County to a mammoth industrial campus in Boone County.
“Indiana really is blessed to have abundant water resources. But as experts have been saying for years, the water is not evenly distributed within our state. In recent years, Indiana has become a favorable location for some up-and-coming industries that are highly water dependent, like EV battery facilities and data centers,” said bill author Sen. Eric Koch, R-Bedford. “This is a great thing for the future of our state,
but it has also brought to the forefront issues about how we allocate our water resources.”
Koch said Senate Bill 4 ensures water projects make sense from both an economic and hydrological standpoint. Specifically, the legislation would require a utility or large private sector user to get approval from Indiana’s Department of Natural Resources before carrying out a water project.
Koch said a second permit process outlined in the bill would loop in Indiana’s Utility Regulatory Commission “for all large, long-haul water pipelines.”
Senate Bill 5, meanwhile, targets large state government contracts. Bill author Sen. Scott Baldwin, R-Noblesville, said his caucus wants to require state contracts of $500,000 or more to include clear performance expectations for vendors, along with penalties if those expectations are not met.
Baldwin said his goal is to create a “no-bid list” of companies that are temporarily disqualified from bidding on any more state contract, though vendors can appeal that decision.
The bill also requires state agencies to submit quarterly progress reports about major state contracts to the state budget committee and undergo review for making “significant” contract amendments or applying for new federal funds that require an Indiana match.
While the current draft of the legislation does not specifically address no-bid contracts, he did not close the door on such language in upcoming iterations.
Rochester branch library to offer free drawing class
The Fulton County Public Library will be offering a free drawing class Saturday, Feb. 15, from 1-3 p.m. at the Rochester Branch.
Local artist and musician, Jim Eikenberry, will be the instructor. Eikenberry attended the Fort Wayne Art Institute/IU for over four years studying drawing, painting and design and earning a bachelor’s degree in fine art, or BFA.
He was one of the only students to earn a degree majoring in drawing. He now owns and operates The Mill Creek Studio, where he creates and sells original fine art.
Jim has shown in numerous exhibitions and competitions across the state, including the Clark Gallery at the Honeywell Center, Wabash, where he was awarded first place in the competition’s drawing category for the annual 92 county invitational (all Indiana) contest.
The drawing class is open to ages 16 and older, all levels of expertise, but especially beginners who want to improve their draftsmanship, values and shading and increase the level of realism in their work. This class is a part of the Fulton County Public Library Makerspace program, which
works to provide skill building classes in the arts and technology and is funded by an Arts Project Support grant through the Indiana Arts Commission. To register for the class or learn more, call FCPL Makerspace director Erica Coffing at (574) 223-1015 or the Rochester branch at (574) 2232713.
Activities are made possible in part by the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County, and the Indiana Arts Commission, which receives support from the State of Indiana and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Resource networking event Feb. 19
Fulton County H.O.P.E. will host a resource networking event from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19, at the Fulton County Library, Rochester.
Persons are invited to come be a part of the change Fulton County H.O.P.E. seeks to bring to the residents of Fulton County as the community works together.
The luncheon promises to be a time of valuable connection and insightful conversations.
For more information call (574) 223-4357 or visit FCHOPE.org.
Fulton County H.O.P.E. is Healing Through Opportunity Positivity Empowerment. The group strives to be the driving force in providing awareness and education to the residents of Fulton County regarding resources as well as provide pathways to accessing those resources.
Local students named to dean’s list
The following local students were recently named to the dean’s list of their respective colleges/universities:
Indiana University Kokomo Kewanna — Jason Trey Young Macy — Parker Johnson, Brandon Thomas Maish, Robert Eugene Moore, Lauren Rachel Neff Rochester — Delaney Lee Barkman, Matthew Louis Dereski, Jared Matthew Frazier, An-
drea Kauffman, Paul Leasure, Ashley Mojica, Payton Sayers Moore, Daphne Rose Mae Nolen, Jacob A. Sayger, Gabriel Joseph Scorsone, Emma Stinson, William Evan Van Heyningen Winamac — Tyler Campbell, Brenna M. Day, Lauren E. Fredel, Brandy Rebecca Rená Hayes-Manning, Jacob Forrest Hoffman, Kendal Elizabeth Johnson, Matthew Raymond Kletz
H.O.P.E. provides awareness and education by highlighting resources available using multiple channels of communication. It provides pathways to unfilled community resource needs by acting as a collaborative idea incubator that brings solutions into reality.
It focuses on substance abuse, poverty and mental health.
Those who are unable to attend in person can join others virtually at: meet.google.com/ina-jvcshbp; call +1 402-736-0111 PIN: 620-713-706# or locate additional phone numbers at tel.meet/inajvcs-hbp?pin=5798159334286
Public invited to FEDCO First Pitch competition
The public is welcome to attend the Fulton Economic Development Corp’s First Pitch competition. It’s from 9-11:30 a.m. Thursday, March 13, at the Geneva Center, 5282 N. Old US 31, Rochester.
Judges will hear a total of six business pitches from teams of Caston, Rochester and Tippecanoe Valley high school students. The event is sponsored by BizGro, FEDCO and Fulton County REMC.
Updates and happenings around the area
Town of Akron board of zoning appeals meeting is scheduled at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 23, in Akron Town Hall, 206 W. Rochester St., Akron.
Board of works meeting will be at 7:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 24, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Story time at Kewanna-Union Township Library, will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, located at 210 W.
Main St., Kewanna.
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The Legislative Breakfast Series will kick off at 7:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, at Kewanna-Union Township Public Library, 210 E. Main St., Kewanna. Breakfast and social networking will begin at 7:30 a.m. Anyone is invited to attend the free breakfast meeting.
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Area planning meeting will be at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 27, in the County Annex Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
plore their creativity with Legos and snap circuits.
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There will be a library board meeting at 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 27, at Kewanna-Union Township Public Library, 210 E. Main St., Rochester.
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City council meeting will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 28, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Fish and Tenderloin Fry will be from 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, at the Fulton County Fairgrounds, 1009 W. Third St., Rochester. Sponsored by the Fulton County Horse and Pony Club. Full meal with deserts served. For more information or tickets call Keisha Troutman (574) 835-9551, Leslie Crissinger (574) 835-0255, Linda Herendeen (574) 551-4182 or Julie Moore (574) 505-0042.
from 4:30-6 p.m. every Wednesday evening in January and February. The church is located on the corner of Pearl Street and Toner Street, Kewanna. Free will donation accepted.
Help be a part of United Ministries of Fulton County. United Ministries gives assistance to Fulton County residents in need, while keeping God’s purposes in mind. Donations may be mailed to P.O. Box 531, Rochester, IN 46975.
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Akron Carnegie Public Library, 205 E. Rochester St., Akron, will host Lego Club at 4 p.m. Monday, Jan. 27. Elementary kids can ex-
There will be a redevelopment commission meeting at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 29, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Northern Indiana Community Foundation has announced scholarship applications are available and due by 3 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11. To learn more visit nicf.org or call (574) 223-2022.
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4-H enrollment and re-enrollment is now open. Active members and volunteers must be re-enrolled every year. Enroll now at v2.4honline.com.
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Kewanna United Methodist Church will have soup suppers
Kewanna Town Council will meet at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6, at Kewanna Town Hall, 308 S. Logan St., Kewanna.
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Heartland Church, 321 E. Eighth St., Rochester, currently has a warming center for individuals seeking a warm, safe place to sleep. Doors are open each evening until Friday, Jan. 31. Intake for the shelter is 6-8 p.m. Enter on the south side of the building.
JIM EIKENBERRY
Protecting your largest organ
By KELLY FRIAR ORZE, PA-C Woodlawn Health
Editor’s
Note: Kelly Friar Orze is a physician assistant at Woodlawn Health
Our skin, the largest organ of the body, plays an essential role in overall health. It acts as a barrier against infections, regulates temperature and enables the sensation of touch, pain and pressure. Despite its vital functions, skin health often takes a backseat in wellness routines. One of the most effective ways to ensure your skin remains healthy is through regular, annual skin exams. Here’s why these checkups are so important.
Early Detection of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, and its prevalence continues to rise. Routine skin exams help in the early detection of any skin abnormalities that you may not be able to see. When was the last time you looked at your back? Skin changes can occur frequently due to various factors, including aging, sun
exposure, smoking, hormonal shifts and environmental influences. During an annual skin exam, a licensed provider carefully examines your skin for any unusual moles, spots, or growths that may indicate the early stages of skin cancer. We can assess whether specific new growths or changes in existing moles are benign or warrant further investigation. By identifying these warning signs early, you significantly increase the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
Skin Conditions Beyond Cancer
While skin cancer is a primary concern, annual skin exams can also help diagnose and manage various skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis and acne. These conditions can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and, if left untreated, may worsen over time. During your visit, your provider can provide personalized treatment plans, sun protection strategies and skincare product recommendations that are best suited for your skin type. Learning how to care for your skin can prevent issues before they arise and promote a healthier complexion.
Peace of Mind
For many, the mere thought of skin cancer can be anxiety-inducing. Regular skin exams can alleviate this concern by providing peace of mind.
Knowing that you are proactively monitoring your skin health can reduce anxiety and encourage a positive outlook. The reassurance that comes from having a medical profes-
sional evaluate your skin can make a significant difference in overall well-being. Incorporating annual skin exams into your medical routine is a proactive step toward
maintaining your health. If you haven’t scheduled an exam in the past year, consider making an appointment today. Your skin will thank you for it.
4-H project spotlight: Dog obedience
By LEEANN POLLOCK Dog Obedience Leader and CRYSTAL GROSSMAN
Purdue Extension
4-H
Youth Educator
The 4-H Dog Obedience Project encourages youth to develop good character, discipline and a feeling of self-worth while learning about dog care, responsibility, training and the sport of dog showing. Youth from third to 12th grade work on perfecting skills in obedience training with the goal of showing at the Fulton County 4-H Fair Dog Show in July. The dog show allows the handler/ dog team the opportunity to demonstrate the dog’s usefulness as a companion while behaving in a public place in the presence of other dogs. The 4-H member must feed, train and care for their dog or the family dog, which can be a purebred or mixed breed. The dog may be any age over 6 months by April 15 of the current year and does not need any previous training.
The Fulton County Mighty
Mutts, a workshop club for the 4-H Dog Obedience Project, will guide the 4-H members through the journey of training their dog(s). The Mighty Mutts start the year with an informational Dog Fair on the last Sunday in February, followed by weekly training sessions on Tuesdays starting in March at the Everett Smith Building on the 4-H Fairgrounds. The leaders and trainers will guide the 4-H member and their dog through weekly step-by-step training procedures to practice at home, helping them achieve their obedience training goals by the time of the 4-H Fair Dog Show.
From first year basics such as heel, sit, down, and stay to more advanced skills for returning members, like dumbbell retrieve and hand signals the trainers assist with all levels of obedience. In addition to obedience classes, the handlers and their dogs are trained and eligible to show in showmanship and rally classes. Agility, a favorite of many dogs, is also an option for handlers and
dogs with at least one year of obedience training.
The Fulton County Mighty Mutts committee and 4-H members host an area wide Fun Show in June to provide a show experience prior to the county fair shows. The members all pitch in to make this an enjoyable event for the Mighty Mutts and handlers/ dogs from other counties. Many 4-H members continue to practice after the county fair and show at the Indiana State Fair Dog Show in August. Mighty Mutts members take pride in each other’s accomplishments, and they not only form a bond with their dogs but also with each other.
If your child is interested in joining the dog obedience project or other projects 4-H has to offer, go to 4-H online at v2.4honline.com until May 15 to enroll. There is a $15 state program fee for each 4-H member, in third through 12th grade, to enroll. Anyone needing assistance or having questions may contact the Extension Office at (574) 223-3397.
KELLY FRIAR ORZE, PA-C
Rochester Middle School announces first semester grading period honor rolls
The following Rochester Middle School students were named to the first semester grading period honor rolls for the 20242025 school year.
All-A Honor Roll
The following students have received all As.
Seventh Grade — Lindy I. Armstrong, Charlotte Louise Backus, Aubrey Lynn Bauman, Grayson Lane Bowyer, Hayley Michelle Bright, Kenna Lee Calvert, Cash Paul Casper, Katelyn Cheyenne Conliff, Korbyn Ian Crossland, Lucas Wayne Enyart, Isaac Wayne Field, Alaina Garrison, Hailey Mae Howell, Ayden Joseph Jaeger, Ella Rayne Jenkins, Elijah Thomas Kreighbaum, Rilee Jean Lucker, Kinlee Monroe McKee, Sera Marie Roe, Abraham James Seward, Parker Gabriel Smith, Piper Nicole Snyder, Gavin Levi Sutton, Makayla Rose Walley and Macie Grayce Widman.
Sixth Grade — Deacon Kane Cheesman, Ava Lorraine Forry, Minna Lynn Fulton, Hank Matthew Hardesty, Paige Bailey Jacobson, Bailey Jean Koebcke, Mason Kyle McLochlin, Jacob Michael Miller, Allison Ava Mulligan, Melissa Louise Rose Riseling, Mason Lee Straeter, Easton Ray Warren, McCrea
Meredith Wilson and Whitley Jeanette Winans
Fifth Grade — Jolene Lyn Armstrong, Carson Tyler Banks, Wyatt Damic Beck, Molly Ann Brouyette, Brantlyn Andrew Brubaker, Corinna Rae Chevalier, Ethan Castle Cloud, Gage Robert Fishburn, Ryker Jace Fishburn, Jordan Marcus Halterman, Everett Louis Horvath, Harper Lee Howell, Morgan R Jacobson, Kaitlin L Jaeger, Luke Bradley Dean Johnson, Keaghan Marie Kauffman, Crew William Kiser, Otto Leroy Koebcke, Andrew Joseph Love, Griffin Max McKee, Graham Joseph Miller, LouAnnie Mae Million, Carter Owen Overmyer, Donovan Josue Poe, Sophie RayLynn Ritter, Liam Jeffery Robertson, Madison Leah Rupley, Maddox Ares Xander Shaffer, Nora Rose Straeter, Luke Michael Thomas, Kaylee Ann Layne Weakman and Lanah Harper Young.
A/B Honor Roll
The following students have received A/Bs.
Seventh Grade — Kylie M. Aguilar, Delilah Olivia Ashby, Vada Mae Biernacki, Zoey Josleyn Binion, Ashlyn Rae Bradley, Baylee Elzabeth Brown, Rosalynne Marie Casey, Alyssa Michelle Clapper, Aydan Alexander Cortes-Gustafson, Warner
Thomas Joseph Michael DuBois, Kinley Sue Flory, Morgan Bailey Fowler, Jordan Edgar Gonzalez, Aryanna Rose Grimm, Zandra Laine Handy, Riley Kay Harding, Allaynna Marie Hart, Rowan Wesley Heinzmann, Jackson Carl Howard.
Grayson Oliver Kauffman, Sarai Lopez, Lillian April Merideth, Asher Allen James Merrill, Blade Cooper Miller-Reffitt, Kaylynn Baylee Miller, Griffin Paul Newton, Ella Sophia Papandria, Aiven James Pawski, Alexander Jay Schwarte, Thomas Joseph Schwenk, Morgan Jade Simpson, Addison Kay Smith, Alexis Eliza Springer and Elijah Eric Straeter.
Sixth Grade — Giovanni
Hector Agosto, Khloe Anahi Destiny Andrea Aguilar, Nyah Lane Archambeault, Emmett Jeffery
Joseph Bitterling, Willow Grace, Mason Lee Bowyer, Owen Patrick Brady, Travis Michael Bright,
Liam Michael Burton, Sawyer Woodrow Callahan, Coralynn Rose Calvert, Alivia Jane Carpenter, Reed Hunter Casper, Natalie Darling, Colton Tanner Dotson, Alivia Marie Ford, Kymberlee Jezette Gonzalez, Kobe B Gray, Payton MaeLynn Grimm, Landon Glen Hisey, Briggs Matthew Hunter, Anastasia Sophia Jackson, Tyler Alan Lawrence Kanouse.
Irene Isabella Kouskousakis, Chloe Renee Ladouceur, Millie Jo Maroney, Olliveia Lou Messersmith, Scarlette Mae Mosley, Kaylee Michelle Baugh Owens, Sadie Melane Pearson, Kapri Nicole Dawn Pesak, Lyrik Nevaeh Rivas, Daisy Anne Salvatierra, Nico James Scorsone, Heidi Grace Shuck, Sophie Anne Shuck, Emma Rose Kay Smith, Eli Morris Thomas, Valerie Louise Trainer, Eden Kara Lynn Tucker, Cailynn Mae Tyler, Caleb William
Vigar, Layne Joseph Wagoner, Camdyn Daniel Whitehead, Arianna Elizabeth Wieringa, Linley Marie Wilburn and Hadley Joanne Zehner.
Fifth Grade — Malayah Arteaga, Daphne Dell Blakesley, Kinley Marie Briney, Landyn David-Mack Brower, Weslee Mavrick Buckner, Braden James Coggins, Austin Michael Crissinger, Alexis Marie Davis, Lucy James Downs, Tyson Ray Eatmon, Kayden Rae Eriks, Lennox Blas Ferro, Mason Elmer Hamilton, Grant Nathaniel Wells Holder, Logan J Howard, Madison Kay Hunter, Wyatt Lee Jackson, Aria Mae Kauffman, Benjamin Cole Love, Vanessa Noel Miller, Gil Orville Newton, Avery Lynn Perkins, Kinley Grace Reynolds, Dakota Kaye Schwarte, Cross Michael Sliss, Abby Leann Small, Mackenzie D Utter, Ryan Allen Vanderwall and Evan James Wilson.
February events at Kewanna Union Township Public Library
Kewanna Union Township is offering the following special events in December.
The library is located at 210 E. Main St., Kewanna. For more information and updates call (574) 6532011, visit the website at kewanna. lib.org or check out its Facebook page.
Back To The Past:
‘Our Kewanna’
Local historian, Bob Clyde, will continue his discussion of the history of Kewanna. Back to the Past: “Our Kewanna” is held at 11 a.m. on the last Wednesday of the month.
Coffee and Tea Time
Coffee and Tea Time is at 10:30 a.m. every Wednesday morning. Plan to attend, enjoying time with your neighbors and friends and
then stay for Back to the Past: “Our Kewanna”. Fish and Seafood Presentation
Jessica Riffle, Purdue Extension Fulton County Educator, will be presenting “Benefits of Eating Fish and Seafood with a Midwest Twist” at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19. Find out why seafood is considered a powerhouse for heart health, cognitive function, and joint flexibility.
Home-schoolers At The Library
The home-school program is back and it’s all about science. There will be Valentine S.T.E.M. activities at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19.
S.T.E.M. education is an approach that uses science, technology, engineering and mathematics to learn and have fun.
We Need Bluebirds
A special event to increase the public’s awareness of the importance of bluebirds in our environment will take place at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13. Tony Carroll, DNR Wildlife Biologist, will be instructing those that attend the program about ways to conserve natural resources with an emphasis on bluebirds.
Patrons will learn about ways to make protecting natural resources a priority. All of those that attend will be able to make and take home their own bluebird house after Carroll’s presentation. Everyone is welcome to attend this free event. This program was made possible through a grant received from Arrow Head Country RC&D. Fulton County Soil and Water Conservation District is partnering with the library for this special event.
Common Frauds and Scams
Scammers often use new technology, such as AI, to enhance triedand-true scams. Join and find out how to stop being a victim of these common frauds and scams on your devices. Zak, Library Tech Expert, will be sharing this important information at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12.
Library Lovers Month
Library Lovers Month is celebrated for the entire month of February. That’s right, love is in the air not just because of Valentine’s Day, but also for library lovers all around the world. The month is dedicated to the people who love the buildings, halls or rooms that house numerous collections of books, books and books.
There is something satisfying about thousands of books being organized and categorized a certain way for readers to enjoy. It’s important to know that libraries offer services that aren’t available on the internet, including free assistance in finding obscure information and borrowing a book that may not be available in the admittedly immense catalog one can find on the internet.
There’s more to a library than Continued on page 9
Rochester winter sports update —
Peppler takes 6th, Gerald 8th at state
BY VAL TSOUTSOURIS Sports Editor, RTC Girls Wrestling Rochester wrestlers
23-0 on the season.
Teammate Brant Beck, who is ranked No. 2 at 157, also bumped his record to 23-0 by winning on a technical fall in 1:08.
Clarence Garrett (150) also won by tech fall.
lob to give the Lady Kings a 3228 lead with 2:20 left.
But McCarter answered with a trey to get Rochester within one.
Laine Peppler and Lilly Gerald both earned spots on the podium for the second time in their respective careers at the IHSAA girls wrestling state finals at Corteva Coliseum in Indianapolis Friday, Jan. 17.
Matthias Field (144), Jesse Smith (175) and Derek Wortley (190) won by forfeit.
Konor Fugate (126) and Jesus Velez (165) lost by decision.
By VAL TSOUTSOURIS Sports Editor, RTC
Peppler, a junior, went 2-2 on the day and finished in sixth place at 170 pounds. Gerald, a junior, went 1-3 and finished in eighth place at 105.
Makenna McKee, the third Lady Z competing at state after winning the regional at 125 pounds last week, lost by fall to Franklin Central’s Alia Russell in 3:21 and was eliminated in the first round.
As a team, Rochester scored nine points and finished in a tie for 54th place out of the 121 schools that had at least one representative at the first ever IHSAA state finals.
Gerald finished the season 287.
Peppler finished the season 28-6.
McKee, the ninth-ranked sophomore who is in her second year of competitive wrestling, finished 25-8.
Boys Wrestling
Layne Horn (132), Reed Perry (138), Mason Hisey (215) and Declan Gard (HWT) all won by fall for the Zebras as they won a road dual 52-6 against Triton Wednesday, Jan 15.
Horn, ranked No. 5 according to IndianaMat.com, improved to
Continued from page 8
C.A.T.C.H. Kids Club
C.A.T.C.H. Kid’s Club is a monthly youth program. It will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27. Lori Stiffler, Purdue Extension Fulton County Educator, will be presenting this program teaching healthy habits and nutrition.
C.A.T.C.H. stands for Coordinated Approach to Child Health. Stiffler will share fun ways to learn about healthy eating and the importance of physical activity.
Black History Month Program
February is Black History Month. Teresa Morning, retired Eastern Pulaski Elementary School first grade teacher, will be presenting a “Black History Month Program & Story Time” at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 22.
Rochester’s Trevor Coplen won a JV match.
Girls Basketball
Rylee Clevenger’s fourth 3-pointer of the game was the go-ahead 3-pointer with 26 seconds left to lift the Rochester girls basketball team to a 34-32 win over host Lewis Cass Saturday, Jan. 18.
Clevenger and Ella McCarter tied for team-high scoring honors with 12 points each. Aubrey Wilson and Jadyn Field added five points each.
McCarter also made four treys. Rochester made nine treys as a team.
Mylie Sipe and Anna Hedrick had eight points each for Lewis Cass. Sipe hit the game-tying 3-pointer with 7:28 left that tied the game at 28 after Lewis Cass had once trailed 22-13.
Aftin Griffin made two free throws with 5:06 left, and Anna Hedrick scored on a back-door
The Rochester girls basketball team came into their game with visiting Logansport at the RHS gym Wednesday, Jan. 15 having made 103 3-pointers in 17 previous games.
Against the Lady Berries, they made just one 3-pointer but scored a season high in points and cruised to a 50-18 win over the Lady Berries to break a twogame losing streak and improve to 13-5.
Kellyn Cripe and Goldie Kitchell had five points each for the Lady Berries, who lost their fourth straight game and dropped to 2-16.
Cripe provided the Lady Berry highlight when she swished a 38-footer at the halftime buzzer. That was Logansport’s only made 3-pointer, and it was their only points of the second quarter.
Boys Basketball
Under siege from a jump shooting exhibition from Lewis Cass’ Bryce Rudd and Brennan Deeter, the Rochester boys basketball team kept calm, got the ball to Drew Bowers for the game’s most important shot and won their third straight game at
Caston School Corporation board meeting Jan. 22
Caston School Corporation will hold its monthly board meeting at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 22, in the Caston board
Valentine Craft Party
A Valentine craft party will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6. All area youth are welcome to attend this fun event. There will be Valentine crafts and lots of fun.
room, 9815 S. SR 25, Rochester. The public work session will follow the regular monthly board meeting.
Adult Craft Night
Adult Craft Night will be at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27. Join to make a special craft of your own. All supplies will be furnished.
the RHS gym Friday, Jan. 17. Rochester ran their motion offense. Carson Paulik screened off two Lewis Cass defenders and Bowers popped out to the top of the key. Reinartz’s pass from the right wing set him up for the shot, and Rochester was back up 56-53.
On the other end, Deeter missed, Bowers rebounded, and Rochester received alternating possession with 34.6 seconds left after a Lewis Cass player tied up Bowers underneath the basket.
Reinartz then fouled Brody Hillis accepting the inbounds pass. Lewis Cass was in the bonus, and Hillis made both free throws to cut the deficit to one. Rochester called timeout and set up a press breaker.
Two defenders ran at Reinartz, who quickly hit ahead to Baugher in the middle of the court before they could get to him. Baugher in one motion leaped and fed ahead to Kiser for an open layup and a 58-55
lead with 25 seconds left.
After a Lewis Cass timeout with 16.3 seconds left, Deeter missed a trey from the deep corner in front of the Rochester student section. The rebound was tipped in the air, and Hillis threw the ball off Paulik, who was lying out of bounds to retain possession with 5.7 seconds left. Lewis Cass had a timeout left but elected not to call it. Deeter ran off a maze of screens in the lane and popped out to the corner.
Paulik saw that Bowers, who had been guarding Deeter, got lost in the maze, so Paulik popped out on him. Deeter’s off-balance 3 from the left corner hit nothing but glass, and Reinartz rebounded.
Hillis fouled Reinartz with 1.1 seconds left. Rochester was not in the bonus.
After a timeout, Paulik inbounded to Kiser, who threw a pass off Reinartz’s fingertips out of bounds as time expired.
Manitou Training Center has a full-time opening for a DSP (Direct Support Staff) working with individuals with developemntal disabilities. Valid driver’s license required. No experience necessary, training is provided. Apply at 1690 E. Lucas St., Rochester, IN or online at www.msdcin.org
The Fulton County 4-H Horse and Pony Club is now accepting youth members for enrollment. The club is a nonprofit youth
Prenatal yoga program offered in Culver
A prenatal yoga program for women with 15-plus weeks left in their pregnancy will teach yoga poses and breathing practices that support fetal position during pregnancy and the birthing process, what to expect during pregnancy and birth, and how to plan for the fourth trimester.
Additionally, the prenatal education will be nutrition on a budget; pregnancy and birth: what to expect and how to prepare; and motherhood self-care and mindfulness.
The program will be held at the Culver Beach Lodge, 819 E. Lake Shore Dr., from 5:30-7 p.m. Wednesday evenings starting March 3 and concluding July 23. All sessions will be led by highly certified instructors and local
medical professionals.
Facilitators will be Elaine Wakeland, RN, BSN, CNM, MSNIBCLC; Dr. Noemi Adame, physician and owner of Culver Pediatrics Center; and Katie McMullen, 200 HR-RYT, 85-HR prenatal yoga.
Transportation support is available in Marshall County.
The program is made possibly by the Marshall County Community Foundation, Marshall County Department of Health, The Roots Yoga Project, Culver Pediatrics Center and Culver Park. It focuses on bridging the resource gap for pregnant moms and supporting infant development in North Central Indiana.
For questions, contact lindsay@ theladybugfoundation.org.
Shereen Thor keynote speaker at Fulton County Women’s Conference
The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce invites all interested women to attend the inaugural Fulton County Women’s Conference presented by Morrison Lau at The Times Theater at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 7.
After a reception featuring various vendors and speakers, guests will enjoy lunch provided by Ruthless Bar & Patio and a presentation by Keynote Speaker Shereen Thor.
Thor is a speaker on a mission to help audiences find happiness by embracing authenticity so that they can fulfill their purpose.
Thor is a comedian turned coach who slays with hope and humor. She has shared the stage with greats like Serena Williams, Prince Harry, Pau Gasol, and Les Brown. She is also the bestselling author of “Revolutionary Woman,” which focuses on inspiring women and people of color to revolutionize how they see themselves to create a more equitable world.
She has been featured in Forbes, TEDx, The Wall Street Journal, Insider, Medium, Spike TV, 97.1 AMP Radio, and more. When she isn’t working, she enjoys the great outdoors, spending time with her family, coaching or playing soccer, enjoying good food with friends, and leaving her cell phone in the dust for extended periods. To learn more, go to shereenthor.com.
After hearing this empowering courage and leadership keynote, attendees will be able to:
• Trust their leadership instincts.
• Begin to dream again.
• Take aligned action personally and professionally.
• Learn how to face fears.
• Embark upon actualizing the extraordinary.
Fulton County women who plan to attend this special program can register with Kellie Scobie at (574) 224-2666 or kellie@fultoncountychamber.com, or
equestrian 4-H organization which promotes leadership growth and activities for kids and their horses and ponies.
The club meets on the second Tuesday of each month at the Fulton County 4-H Fairgrounds’ Community Building located at 1009 W. Third St., Rochester. All are welcome to attend.
The Equestrian Center will host its annual fish and tenderloin fry fundraiser 4-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1, at the Fulton County 4-H Fairgrounds Community Building. The Horse and Pony Club is providing volunteers.
New for the 2025 year is the Excellence in Leadership Challenge, in which junior and senior members demonstrate their leadership, sportsmanship, and horsemanship skills throughout the year for a chance to earn a beautiful trophy saddle and buckle. Top point-earning juniors and seniors will also earn belt buckles and other awards at the year end banquet.
Kids who live in other coun-
online at fultoncountychamber. com by Feb. 3. All attendees are encouraged to wear red in support of women’s heart health.
Any questions can be directed to Kellie Scobie, Executive Assistant of the Fulton County Chamber of Commerce, at (574) 224-2666 or kellie@fultoncountychamber.com.
Tears
By RUSS DAVIDSON SR. Guest Writer
When we know something is wrong we often have tears. They sometimes come easy or fall hard. The human side brings us an understanding of life. With tears, we find our feelings. But when I spill my coffee, I forget about tears.
ties can join Fulton County 4-H Horse and Pony, as residence in the county is not required. Kids can enjoy activities with their horses and ponies at the equestrian center, which was built in 1995, and features a large main show arena, smaller show arena and makeup arena, box stalls, electric hookups, and a clubhouse with restrooms and showers. The club hosts several
Online Only Sports Card Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Sports cards, box sets, rookie cards, comics, sports magazines, price guides, collectibles. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Online Record Collection Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 27. Pickup located at
horse show events throughout the year.
Visitors can get more information and keep updated on the club’s activities via Facebook at facebook.com/TheFultonCountyHorseAndPonyClub. Or call club president Julie Moore directly at (574) 505-0042.
To contact the Purdue Extension, visit: extension.purdue. edu.
1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Over 20,000 records, all genres, most pre-1980s. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Mobilgas Museum
Retirement Auction
10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 1. Located at 515 Beerenbrook St., Plymouth. Collector cars, advertising signage, thermometers, clocks, petroliana, service station tools, mannequins, toys. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction. com.
SHEREEN THOR
How tax dollars work in public schools
By TERRY SPRADLIN Indiana School Boards Association Executive Director
With the start of the 2025 session of the Indiana General Assembly, the investment in K-12 public education will become a focal point of the two-year state budget. When examining the areas that consume the largest portions of the state budget — while Medicaid is the fastest-growing expenditure now at 19% of the state budget — K-12 education remains the largest expenditure at 47%.
This number decreases to 42% when deducting the obligations for retired teacher pensions. The annual appropriation of more than $9 billion for K-12 education supports teaching and learning opportunities for more than 1 million Hoosier children. About $5 billion of this amount pays for the salaries and benefits of the 63,000 teachers in the classroom.
The investment by the state legislature in public schools is a sound decision. Adequate funding for schools helps perpetuate our democracy, benefits local communities, provides opportunities for our youngest citizens, and drives
economic and job growth. Successful schools produce law abiding, tax paying citizens ready for post-secondary education, military enlistment, or high wage careers.
The return on the investment is strong, as illustrated by several positive indicators.
Most recently, Indiana’s public high schools achieved a record-high graduation rate of 92.5%. Indiana students lead the nation in earning college credits while in high school, with 64% of students earning an average of 13.5 college credits.
The State Board of Education approved changes to high school graduation requirements, increasing the opportunities for students to earn workplace credentials through participation in work-based learning, internships, and modern youth apprenticeships.
Other policy changes are helping drive improvements in reading proficiency and student attendance. Indiana consistently performs well on national rankings based on the National Assessment of Educational Progress, with our fourth and eighth
TERRY SPRADLIN, INDIANA SCHOOL BOARDS ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
graders exceeding the national average in math, and on par in reading.
While these are positive indicators, we have more work to do, especially to encourage more students to pursue a higher education. Continued investment in K-12 public education is essential.
Where does Indiana stand on
Best, worst cities for an active lifestyle in 2025
Given that “exercising more” and “losing weight” are among the top New Year’s resolutions for 2025, the personal-finance website WalletHub recently released its report on the Best and Worst Cities for an Active Lifestyle in 2025, along with expert commentary, to identify where Americans stand the best chance of staying
fit in the new year.
WalletHub compared the 100 biggest U.S. cities across 35 key metrics. The data set ranges from the average monthly fitness-club fee to the city’s bike score to the share of physically inactive adults.
Top 5
• Honolulu
per-student spending? According to a 2024 report from the Reason Foundation, Indiana had the second-lowest inflation-adjusted increase in education spending in the nation from 2002 to 2020 at only 1.9%. Another 2024 report from the Education Data Initiative indicates Indiana ranks 37th of 50 states in education spending per pupil.
While state funding has risen substantially in the last four years, the long-term trends have not kept up with inflation and are decreasing as a percentage of the state budget.
These are cautionary trends for policymakers and state leaders as
they craft the new two-year state budget. Public education continues to be a wise investment, in return helping proactively address many issues related to public health, safety, and quality of life. Balancing a budget that addresses a bevy of complex issues and essential programs is not an easy task. Legislators are to be commended when they prioritize the best investment of taxpayer dollars in K-12 education, as they have done recently.
Let us hope we can celebrate a similar outcome at the end of the budget session, accelerating educational progress for Hoosier students.
School software provider latest target of personal data hack
By PAIGE GROSS Indiana Capital Chronicle
The sensitive data of millions of American adults and children have been compromised after hackers targeted California-based education software company PowerSchool, the company confirmed recently
• New York
• San Francisco
• Las Vegas
• Chicago Best Vs. Worst Orlando, Fla, has the most sporting-goods stores per capita, 10.5 times more than in North Las Vegas, Nev., which has the fewest
Scottsdale, Ariz., has the most public golf courses per capita, 49.3 times more than in Bakersfield, Calif., which has the fewest.
Denver, Colo., has the most fitness trainers and aerobics instructors per capita, 5.8 times more than in Corpus Christi, Texas, which has the fewest.
Las Vegas has the most playgrounds per capita, 22.2 times more than in Hialeah, Fla., which has the fewest.
“The top cities for staying active offer opportunities for all types of people, from those who prefer team sports to people who simply want to get their daily exercise by walking or biking to work. They also tend to be large cities that still have a close proximity to beautiful natural areas for hiking and swimming. Finally, the top cities for an active lifestyle have populations that are highly interested in exercise, which helps people find workout partners and stay motivated,” said WalletHub Analyst Chip Lupo.
To view the full report, visit wallethub.com/edu/best-andworst-cities-for-an-active-lifestyle/8817
The breach happened at the end of December, and new information confirmed by TechCrunch Thursday, Jan. 9, says hackers were able to access student addresses, Social Security numbers, grades and medical information on the platform, which schools use for student records, grades, attendance and enrollment.
The names, phone numbers and emails of parents and guardians were also potentially compromised, the company said. Hackers were able to use a stolen credential or login, to access the internal customer support portal, the company said. PowerSchool currently has 16,000 customers, and is used by more than 50 million students across North America, the company confirmed.
The incident is the latest largescale data breach in the U.S., as year after year, the number of cybercrimes continues to rise. The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center recorded 880,418 complaints in 2023, a 10% increase from the complaints registered the year prior, and nearly double the number of crimes reported in 2019. The agency estimates potential monetary losses due to cybercrime since 2019 to be $37.4 billion.
PowerSchool’s breach is an example of how cyber criminals profit — the company said it was extorted into paying a sum to prevent hackers from leaking the stolen data, though it did not say how much.
When people think about hacking, they likely picture automated attacks that pass through logins and passwords, said Rob Scott, managing partner of technology law firm Scott & Scott. Dark Web
Many breaches come from ac-
counts purchased on the so-called Dark Web, a vast expanse of the internet that is inaccessible to most conventional browsers, Scott said.
“Or employee negligence situations … poor password management or IT policies around managing and keeping passwords safe and confidential,” he said. This incident was not an example of a ransomware attack, where hackers use software or malware to encrypt data on a computer, and prevent users from accessing their device.
But the motivation for the majority of cyber crimes is financial, Scott said.
The advancements of generative AI systems have made the internet a data hungry place, Kiran Chinnagangannagari, cofounder and chief product and technology officer at cybersecurity firm Securin. said, because these systems need tons of information to learn and get better.
While about 20 states have consumer data privacy laws, and all 50 states have data breach notification laws, Chinnagangannagari and Scott said they don’t find legislation is a big help in fighting this growing problem.
While there’s little an individual can do in the wake of these large-scale attacks on a corporation or organization, users can take some actions toward proper “cyber hygiene,” Chinnagangannagari said.
Be protective of where you are putting your information, and learn what you can about terms and conditions of large platforms or apps you sign up for. You should set up a system of not reusing passwords, and utilize multi-factor authentication when you can. There are also services that will seek out your data and warn you when it’s been part of a widespread breach, the cybersecurity pro said.
And while it can feel helpless, Chinnagangannagari admits, taking these actions and keeping your eye on your accounts for strange online or financial transactions will prepare you well for our “new reality.”
