Community members were updated on successes and challenges at Rochester Community Schools and Caston School Corp. recently.
The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce hosted its first State of the Schools luncheon on Monday, Aug. 26, at the Fulton County Public Library’s Rochester branch.
Chamber Executive Director Jillian Smith did a question-and-answer session with RCS Superintendent Jana Vance and CSC Superintendent Angie Miller.
One of the questions Smith asked was: “What do you consider the biggest success of your district last year and how did it impact students, staff and the community?”
Vance noted more students are taking college courses while at Rochester High School.
“Sixty-one percent of our graduating class took higher education courses while at Rochester schools,” she said. “There were
GIVING AN UPDATE The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce hosted its first State of the Schools luncheon on Monday, Aug. 26, at the Fulton County Public Library’s Rochester branch. Chamber Executive Director Jillian Smith, right, did a question-and-answer session with Rochester Community Schools Superintendent
Vance, left, and Caston School Corp. Superintendent Angie Miller.
1,221 college credits last year alone, and 405 different college courses were taken during that time.”
Vance said the school has added a commercial driver’s license course, with students able to “get behind the wheel and complete their CDL ... starting in January
2025” if they are at least 18 then.
The public should also be able to take their CDL through the school corporation next year.
Miller said students in her school corporation completed “over 400 credits for our dual-credit classes” last year.
“Most of our courses that we offer through state (colleges), kids Continued on page 2
Vance added other positives were that “over 90%” of the school district’s third graders passed the state IREAD-3 test last year, and enrollment increased, which “can be both a blessing and a curse when you’re looking at space.”
Jana
Wieland feels ‘blessed’ to be TVMS principal
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
New Tippecanoe Valley Middle School Principal Kyle Wieland said he is “blessed” to be in his role.
“I get to wake up every day and help kids,” he said. “It doesn’t get any better than that.”
Wieland, who lives west of North Manchester, was hired this summer to replace Scott Backus, who opted to step down as principal to teach at Tippecanoe Valley High School.
Wieland is originally from North Manchester, graduating from Manchester High School in 1994.
Education is something he
Rochester Lions Club offering free vision screening
The Rochester Lions Club is offering free vision screening for children ages 18 months through age 6 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 6, at The Outlet Youth Center, 491 Apache Drive, Rochester.
The screening may pick up the presence of eye disorders. No physical contact is made with the child and no eye drops or medications are used.
Upon obtaining parent permission, a Lions Club member
will take a digital “camera” measurement of the child’s eyes from a comfortable distance. After the child is screened, the information is sent to Operation Kid Sight for a review. Parents and/or guardian will receive copies of the results. If the screening indicates the possibility of a vision disorder, the parent and/or guardian is notified and encouraged to make an appointment with an eye doctor.
initially didn’t consider as a career; however, in his senior year of high school, one of his teachers told him he thought Wieland would be a good educator, thus cementing his job path.
Wieland got his bachelor’s degree in math and biology secondary education from Indiana University. He noted those subjects were the ones he was best at in school. He later got his master’s degree in school administration and leadership from Ball State University and an education specialist degree.
Wieland returned to his high school to teach for eight years. Following that, he went to Wabash City Schools for 10 years, serving as the high school assistant principal, elementary school assistant principal, and high school principal.
He came back to Manchester Community Schools for three years, serving as superintendent, then as the director of communications and public relations.
Wieland noted it’s been easy for him starting out at TVMS as the school made “great strides” during Backus’ time as principal. He also said all of the faculty from last year have returned to teach for the 2024-25 year.
Wieland said he enjoys working in school administration and helping “teachers grow.”
He encourages others to consider education as a career.
“We just need people in the schools who are selfless and inspiring,” said Wieland.
Wieland’s son, Austin, followed in his footsteps to become an educator. His son teaches elementary school in South Carolina.
Wieland and his wife, Julia, who have been married for 13 years, also have a daughter, London, who’s a senior at Manchester High School.
In his spare time, Wieland enjoys spending time with family, traveling, fishing and kayaking.
Vance, Miller
Continued from page 1
are guaranteed credit,” she said.
“We’ve had a huge increase in enrollment. We’re looking at over 25% (in transfers to the corporation) right now,” Miller added.
Smith also asked about recent school corporation challenges.
Miller noted the free and reduced lunch rate in her district has grown.
“I think this is our whole area. The need is just greater, and with the students who are in those situations comes a lot of challenges, both just living day to day and the education,” she said.
Vance noted the corporation’s English Language Learner population “has doubled in less than a year.”
“So, strategically that is important in regards to the education that we’ve deployed to them,” she said. “We’ve been blessed to hire a couple of multilingual instructional assistants that are able to help in regards to translation and communication. I will say that we are constantly pushing out our flyers in Spanish as well.”
“We have a new Director of Special Services, Lukas Schoenhals, and he’s doing a great job of providing monthly support groups for our ELL students and their families, helping them feel welcome,
understand our district as well as the community as a whole, but we anticipate that number to continue to grow throughout the course of the school year,” added Vance.
Both Vance and Miller said a continuing challenge is people not stopping for school buses when their stop arms are extended.
“We have had multiple bus stop arm violations already (this year), especially on the state highways, and we just don’t understand,” said Miller. “Our bus drivers ... sometimes multiple times (a day will) call those in.”
“We have cameras on those stop arms,” she added. “I don’t know what we can do to people to get them to stop. We had a tragedy in this community, and it’s upsetting ... The problem is not taken care of.”
Vance noted Columbia Elementary School Principal Jason Snyder, who was at the luncheon, “can attest to this.”
“There is nothing more frightening than when you are sitting in your office monitoring the radio traffic before school and after school and when you hear the panic in a bus driver’s voice because (someone’s) just passed a stop arm,” she said. “We were running one a day for the first four or five days of school.”
NEW TVMS PRINCIPAL Kyle Wieland became principal of Tippecanoe Valley Middle School this summer. Photo provided by Kyle Wieland.
Good Neighbors
The Good Neighbors column is for people looking for hardto-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.
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. This column will run every other week.
New questions
Laying pullets — I am looking for laying pullets around Akron. If you have any, please call
Heidi at (574) 544-9669.
Fredonia grapes — I am looking for Fredonia grapes. Does anyone have any extra or know where I might find some? Call (574) 862-1393.
Where to go when you are sick
By ELIZABETH RODRIGUEZ FNP-C Woodlawn Health
Editor’s Note: Elizabeth Rodriguez is a bilingual nurse practitioner with Woodlawn Health.
When you or a loved one is sick, it can be hard to know where to go. Should you wait until your medical provider’s office is open or head to the emergency department?
First, it would be helpful if we explained the different levels of care. Primary care, urgent care and emergency departments provide various levels of care for distinct types of health issues. A
primary care provider can help you understand your health concerns, make recommendations and refer you to a specialist or other medical professional.
Primary care focuses on preventive health and managing chronic conditions over an extended period. Urgent care centers are a middle ground between primary care and emergency departments. They can
provide routine injury treatment and acute medical care for non-life-threatening emergencies.
Urgent care and emergency departments, on the other hand, are designed to direct immediate, short-term medical needs, often in response to sudden illnesses or injuries. Urgent care facilities are often open evenings and weekends. Emergency departments are designed to treat life-threatening or life-altering health conditions that require immediate medical attention. They are staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is always best to go to the emergency room when in doubt.
Akron among those receiving state Community Development Block Grants
Akron is among 14 communities receiving Community Development Block Grants from the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs.
The town is getting $700,000 to improve the overall water quality, water pressure and firefighting capabilities within the town. This grant will support the replacement of all valves and internal piping in the town’s water supply wells, improvements at the water treatment plant, rehabilitation of water storage tanks and upsizing the existing town water main.
“When quality of life in ru-
ral Indiana is high, it improves the quality of life of our entire state,” said Indiana’s Lt. Gov. and Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development Suzanne Crouch. “I celebrate the work of these rural towns and cities who took the extra step to improve their communities by earning these grants.”
The Office of Community and Rural Affairs distributes CDBG funds to rural communities, which assist units of local government with various community projects such as infrastructure improvement, downtown revitalization, public facilities and economic development.
“Congratulations to these rural towns and cities for their hard work in earning these grant funds,” said OCRA Executive Director Duke Bennett. “Quality of life improvement projects such as these can be transformational for our Hoosier communities and their residents.”
Funding for OCRA’s CDBG programs originates from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant program and is administered for the State of Indiana by OCRA. For more information, visit in.gov/ocra/cdbg.
ELIZABETH RODRIGUEZ
Patricia Ann Leavell Hardworking Businesswoman
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Patricia Ann Leavell, aged 70, of Fulton. She peacefully departed in her home on Aug. 27, 2024.
Patricia was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend to many. She is survived by her son, Shane Leavell and his wife Darla from Simpsonville, Ky.; daughters, Kim Crawford and her husband Brian from Fulton and Heather Leavell from Fort Wayne; brothers, Mike Eckert from Wisconsin and Chuck Eckert from North Manchester; grandchildren, Keisha Troutman and husband Ryan Troutman and Bryant Brown from Fulton, Xander and Liam Leavell from Simpsonville, Ky., Mackenzie Leavell from Rochester, Adrian Pemberton from Lafayette and Ethan Sanders from Fort Wayne; and four great-grandchildren.
Patricia was preceded in death by her husband, David Leavell; and her parents, Richard and Darlene Eckert.
Pat’s life was rich with joy and affection. She was born on a warm summer day in Warsaw on July 19, 1954. As a young girl, she attended Sidney Elementary School and later graduated as part of the inaugural class of Whitko High School in South Whitley in 1972. Throughout her youth, she was an active member of the Liberty Mills Church of the Brethren. During her high school years, she gained work experience at Lamp Light Restaurant in Pierceton.
Following her graduation, she secured a local position at Diamond Automation near North Manchester, where she crossed paths with David Leavell, a Diamond salesman from a neighboring town. It was love at first sight. Their immediate connection led to a swift engagement after just two weeks of courtship. They exchanged vows two weeks later on Dec. 20, 1974, at the residence of Pete and Goldys Leavell in Fulton. This same residence is now home to their granddaughter, Keisha, and her family.
Throughout their nearly 49 years of marriage, they dabbled in various business ventures, such as running the local Fulton lumberyard, a Leavell construction company, a veal farm, a chicken system installation company, Leavell Sales and an apartment business. Despite their busy schedules, they always made time to be active members of the community and devoted parents to their children. Their generosity extended not only to their family but also to the community, as they welcomed foster children and adopted children into their home with open arms.
Pat and David were known for their forgiving nature and generous spirit. Pat was a hard worker who earned the respect of her employees for leading by example and putting in long hours. She managed the apartment business with a firm hand but a kind heart, earning the admiration of many tenants who considered her one of the best landlords they had ever had. Despite battling arthritis and facing challenges in her later years, she remained a devoted mother and grandmother.
She persevered in her work until just two years ago, despite enduring significant pain. Rarely did she voice her discomfort, always choosing to put on a brave face for her family. Earlier this year, with Kim’s help, she even made the journey to Louisville to see Xander Leavell perform in the high school production of “The Sound of Music.” Though it was a difficult experience for her, it will be a cherished memory for all who shared it with her.
She took pleasure in preparing chicken parmesan and prime rib for family gatherings, indulging in reading, herbal medicine, crime TV shows, but most of all, in spending time with her loved ones. She seldom complained, bore her pain with stoicism and offered encouragement to those around her. Her presence will be deeply missed by all those who had the privilege of knowing and loving her
A celebration of life service will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 4, at Good Family Funeral Home , 1200 W. 18th St., Rochester. The family will receive friends and relatives from noon to 2 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
Electronic expressions of sympathy may be made to her family at goodfamilyfh.com.
Margery Louise Mutchler
Former Secretary
Margery Louise Mutchler, 100, Rochester, passed away at 3:53 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24, 2024, at her residence.
She was born on Jan. 18, 1924, in Kewanna, the daughter of Earl and Edna Ruth (Burdge) Wilson. On July 22, 1945, at the Kewanna Baptist Church, she married John Jacob Mutchler. He preceded her in death on Aug. 29, 2016.
MARGERY LOUISE MUTCHLER
Margery had been a secretary for Chester White Inc., worked for R.E.M.C. and the Torin Corporation. She enjoyed sewing, baking, especially making chocolate chip cookies and having big family dinners with all her family.
Survivors include her children, Thomas (Sharon) Mutchler, Rochester, Stuart (Terry) Mutchler, Rochester, James (Shirley) Mutchler, Rochester, and Selena Rouch, Fulton; grandchildren, Austin (Lisa) Mutchler, Alison (Pat) Overmyer, Travis (Maurissa Horwitz) Mutchler, Andrea (Keith) Bush, Titus (Sarah) Mutchler, Renee (Jason) Slinger, Heather Green, Ryan Rouch and Hayley Rouch; 16 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her siblings, Martha Mathias, Helen Walburn and Wayne Wilson; and son-in-law, Roger Rouch.
Graveside services were conducted at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 29, at Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rochester. Arrangements by Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester. Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh.com.
Bonnie S. Barnhart Nursing Home Assistant
Bonnie S. Barnhart, 84, Rochester, passed away at 5:15 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024, at Woodlawn Health Hospital, Rochester.
She was born on Dec. 1, 1939, in Fountain County, the daughter of George and Alice (Stambough) Walker.
Bonnie had a big heart and was a hard worker. She had worked as a nursing home assistant, caring for the elderly, loved little dogs and spending time with her grandchildren. She was a former member of the Faith Outreach Church.
Survivors include her daughters, Tammy Barnhart (David Roe), Akron, and Sherry (Matt) Day, Rochester; son, Mark (Jessica) Barnhart, Clearfield, Ky.; grandchildren, Jennifer (Jay Schlosser) Oliver, Rochester, Brittany (Kyle Miller) VandenBossche, Goshen, Ashley (Tony) Barnett-Day, Niles, Mich., Delaney VandenBossche, Elkhart, John Michael (Megan) Barnhart, Kentucky, and Kyle (Miranda) Barnhart, Kentucky; and great-grandchildren, Brayden, Mason, Reagan, Antonio, Taylor, Jacob, Haley, Louise, Elsie, Ezran, Jaxon, Aubree, Allie and Carolyn.
She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Vicky Barnhart; son, Joseph Barnhart; and grandson, David Eskridge.
No services are scheduled at this time. Burial will be at the Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rochester, at a later date. Arrangements by Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester. Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh.com.
Mark A. Jones
Mark A. Jones, 80, Rochester , died at 4:40 a.m. Wednesday, May 8, 2024, in Wynnfield Crossing. He was born on June 18, 1943. On June 3, 1967, he married Diane K. Wilkes; who survives.
Additional survivors are two daughters, Ann (John) Clark and Kristine (Troy) Bixler, both of Rochester; three grandchildren; two sisters, Lana (Larry) Kuhn, Denver and Jane (Bob Myers Sr.) Sprague, Mexico; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis B. “Shorty” and Kathryn (Mang) Jones; brother, Kent Jones; and brother-in-law, Larry Wilkes. A celebration of life service will be at noon Saturday, Sept. 7, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 404 Jefferson St., Rochester.
Friends may visit one hour prior to services in the church.
Clifford A. Bragdon
Clifford A. Bragdon, 88, Kewanna, died at 9:17 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24, 2024, in his residence.
He was born on March 10, 1936.
He is survived by his children, Brenda (Michael) Rice, Star City, Jean (Walter) Grzybowski, Norman Bragdon and Clifford Bragdon Jr., all of Kewanna, and Gladys Bragdon, Logansport; sister, Natalie Maynard, Castle Hill, Maine; 13 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; 21 great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Violet (McGaughey) Bragdon; siblings, Julia Ellis, Allen Bragdon, Thurston Bragdon, Mildred Bragdon, Aubrey Bragdon, Betty Ellis, Ada Bragdon Ellis and Rachel Pinette.
A gathering of family and friends was held Saturday, Aug. 31, at the V.F.W. Post 1121, 507 S. Railroad St., Kewanna.
Memorial contributions may be made to the V.F.W.
Online condolences can be shared with the family at ransfuneralhomes. com.
David Allen Van Scoik
Robert Ronald Gates
Robert Ronald Gates, 92, Austin, Texas, died Friday, Aug. 16, 2024, in his residence.
He was born on June 15, 1932. On Oct. 1954, he married Jean Bowers: who survives.
Additional survivors are his son, Robert Gates Jr., Houston, Texas; one grandson; two great-grandsons; brother-in-law, Mike (Ruby) Bowers, Athens; sister-in-law, Harriet (companion Skip Swick) Swartz, Rochester.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert William and Harriet Vivian (Baylor) Gates; one brother; and one sister.
A graveside service with military rites was held Thursday, Aug. 29, in Athens Cemetery, Athens, with Pastor Teri White officiating.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Hartzler Funeral Home 305 W. Rochester St. Akron.
David Allen Van Scoik, 56, died at 5:27 a.m. Friday, Aug. 23, 2024, in his residence. He was born on Oct. 13, 1967. He is survived by his brother, Bud (companion Claudia Bailey) Van Scoik, Akron; and his companion, Cathy Jefferies, Leesburg.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Betty Jean (Barth) Van Scoik; and sister, Kelly Barth. No services are planned at this time. Online condolences can be shared with the family at earllovefuneralhome. com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Earl-Love Funeral Home, 811 E. Rochester St., Akron.
Mark Scott Losher
Mark Scott Losher, 64, Mentone, died at 1:45 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024, in his residence.
He was born on Feb. 9, 1960. On June 16, 2012, he married Vicki Cartwright Utter; who survives.
Additional survivors are his children, Amber (Mike) Welk, Warsaw, Seth Losher, Rich Valley, Emily (fiance Jordan Booth) Losher, Wabash; six grandchildren; sister, Michelle Treckman, Wabash; brother, Jeffrey (Elizabeth) Losher, Roann; and special cousin, Becky Burkhardt, Denver.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard E. and Judith (Waymire) Losher; father-in-law, Jack Cartwright; and grandson, Cowen Dean Kumler. A celebration of life service is being planned for a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Cowen Dean Kumler Memorial Foundation. Donations can be made in person at Mentone Lake City Bank, Mentone, or Cowen Dean Kumler Memorial Foundation, P.O. Box 543 Mentone, IN 46539.
BONNIE S. BARNHART
PATRICIA ANN LEAVELL
CLIFFORD A. BRAGDON
ROBERT RONALD GATES
MARK A. JONES
MARK SCOTT LOSHER
DAVID ALLEN VAN SCOIK
Trey D. Hunter
Avid Chicago Bears Fan
Trey D. Hunter, 22, Peru, passed away Saturday morning, Aug. 24, 2024, in Rochester.
Trey was born on May 26, 2002, in South Bend, the son of Nathan Hunter and Michelle (Wood) Kline. Trey was a graduate of the class of 2020 at North Miami High School. During Trey’s time at North Miami Schools, he participated in band, choir, robotics, soccer, football and basketball. On Feb. 22, 2023, in Peru, he married Rayvenn Harris and she survives.
Trey was currently working for Altium Packaging in Argos and was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, Rochester. He enjoyed listening to music, playing his guitar, watching WWE, playing video games, his collection of action figures, spending time with his children and was an avid Chicago Bears fan.
Survivors include his wife, Rayvenn Hunter, Peru; son, Karson Hunter, Peru; stepson, Oakley Castle, Peru; father, Nathan Hunter, Rochester; mother, Michelle (Tim) Kline, Rochester; brothers, Tyler (Emily Harrison) Hunter, Westfield, and Trevor Kline, Mexico; sister, Mackenzie Kline, Mexico; and grandparents, Sara and James Gibbs, South Bend, and Phillip and Joyce Kline, Rochester.
Preceding Trey in death were his grandparents, David and Lorraine Hunter and Bruce Wood.
Memorial services were conducted at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 30, at Trinity United Methodist Church, Rochester. Burial followed in Hamlet Cemetery, northeast of Rochester. Friends visited from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 29, at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, and one hour prior to service Friday, Aug. 30, at the church.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Karson Hunter Education Fund. Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh.com.
Matthew Dean Wilson
Matthew Dean “Chupa” Wilson, 29, Kewanna, formerly of Bellevue, Ohio, died Tuesday, Aug. 20, 2024, in his residence.
He was born on April 2, 1995.
Court News
Circuit Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Circuit Court, Judge Arthur Christopher Lee presiding: Complaints 21st Mortgage Corporation v. Kyle Gilbert, Rochester, $29,967.87
Discover Bank v. Emily White, Rochester, $3,064.96
MATTHEW DEAN WILSON
He is survived by his parents, Rhonda Lesher, Kewanna and Michael Wilson, Ohio; two brothers, Brandon (Alyssa) Wilson and Aiden Wilson, all of Ohio; grandmother, Linda (Marvin) Lewis; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, James and Patsy Lesher; grandfather, Harlen Wilson; three uncles; and one cousin.
A celebration of life service was held Saturday, Aug. 31, at Foos and Foos Funeral Home, Bellevue, Ohio.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Rans Funeral Homes & Crematory, Marocco Chapel.
Anjhaly Kalyndy Manriquez Monserratte Pico, Rochester, is the parent of a daughter, Anjhaly Kalyndy, born at 4:27 a.m. Aug. 27, 2024, at Woodlawn Hospital, Rochester. She weighed 6 pounds, 15 ounces, and was 20 inches long.
Jefferson Capital Systems, LLC, successor in interest to Synchrony Bank v. John Abbott, Rochester, $3,856.57
Superior Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Superior Court, Judge Gregory L. Heller presiding: LVNV Funding LLC, v. Joshua Ogle, Rochester, $1,697 JP Morgan Chase Bank, N.A. v. Jeremy Kelly, Rochester, $7,267.20; Kristin Brown, Akron, $10,798.23 Republic Finance, LLC v. Jean Baker, Rochester, $2,756.79 Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Gabriella Bice, Rochester, $8,959.30
Complaint
The following fines and levies were paid in Fulton County courts: Distracted driver — Scott Mead, Holland, Mich., $164; Kyle Rayl, Noblesville, $192.50 No valid driver’s license Johnathan Burton, Lafayette, $164.50
Operating with expired plates — Zachary Bailey, Denver, $164; Brent Braun, New Albany, $164
Speeding — Ella Grissom, McCordsville, $175; Elijah Field, Rochester, $175; Erica McDonald, South Haven, Mich., $175; Maribel Araiza, Granger, $155; Tanya Ebert, Peru, $164; Joshua Ramsey, New Buffalo, Mich., $164.50; Mark Sweeney, Plainfield, $164.50; Stevie Vance, Vandalia, Mich., $192.50; Bennett Hinnen, Louisville, Ky., $164.50; Manuel Briones, Elkhart, $154.40; David Akarah, Indianapolis, $175; Araceli Leal, South Bend, $179.50; Abigail Grunden, Anderson, $175; Pamela Moyer, Rochester, $154.50; Ethan Field, Rochester, $164.50; Neri Mejia, Indianapolis, $154.50; Tonjia Wingo, South Bend, $164.50; Ange Fleurant, Granger, $192.50
Marriage Licenses
The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Fulton County Clerk of the Court: Richter-Hanson
Blake Richter, 25, Kewanna, and Abigail Hanson, 29, Kewanna Jance-Roberts
Robert Jance, 82, Rochester, and Mary Roberts, 79, Rochester
Annual Trail of Courage Sept. 21-22, 2024
The excitement and adventure of Frontier Indiana comes alive at the 47th annual Trail of Courage Living History Festival Sept. 21-22 at Rochester. Since 1976 it has been a place where history is depicted, where you can trace the very footsteps of history, and have a good time doing it. Over 1,000 people in historic outfits participate.
Frontier Indiana comes alive with foods cooked over wood fires, period music and dance, traditional crafts, historic camps and trading, canoe rides on the river, and much more. It is produced by the Fulton County Historical Society. This event combines genealogy of the Potawatomi Indians and the settlers who lived in Fulton County and northern Indiana in the early 1800s with rendezvous events, period music and dance on two stages, canoe rides on the Tippecanoe River.
The Trail of Courage will be held at the FCHS grounds four miles north of Rochester on US 31 and Tippecanoe River.
Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children (6 through 11), and free ages 5 and under.
Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sunday. Potawatomi Honored Family & Trail of Death descendants
Each year a different Potawatomi family is honored and their history published in a folder a the replica 1832 Chippeway Village post office. The honored Potawatomi family had ancestors on the Trail of Death or lived in Indiana before the forced removal of 1838. The caravan will retrace the 1838 route of the forced removal of the Potawatomi starting on Monday, Sept. 18, 2023 at Menomonee statue in Marshall County and will end in Osawatomie, Kansas by the following weekend. Join in the Indian dances
The public is invited to join in the Indian dances 2-3 p.m., which are held in an arena outlined by teepees. The drum will be the TBA Drum and George
Godfrey, Athens, Ill will be the Emcee. Head dancers will be Jeremy Flook and Jichaela Flook siblings that are grandchildren of Joan “Pale Moon” McClellan. The family runs the frybread & chili booth during the festival.
The Trail of Courage includes historic encampments representing the French & Indian War, Voyageurs, Revolutionary War, War of 1812, Western Fur Trade, Plains Indians teepees, and Woodland Indian wigwams.
A re-created Miami Village includes wigwams and lifeways demonstrations, such as making cattail mats.
Another re-creation is of Chippeway Village, which had the first trading post, post office and village in Fulton County in 1832. Food purveyors and traditional craftsmen set up in wooden booths. Craftsmen also sell pre-1840 trade goods from blankets and in historic merchant tents, offering a variety of items from clothing and jewelry to knives and candles, everything
needed to live in frontier days.
The grounds are handicapped accessible. Free tram rides are available to bring people from the museum and Living History Village at the north end of the grounds. The museum and village are open with hosts and free admission. Volunteers can earn free ad-
mission to the Trail of Courage by working half a day. To volunteer or for more information, call the museum at (574) 2234436. Free parking is provided on FCHS grounds. Many benches are available to sit and rest. For further details: fultoncountyhistory.org and potawatomitda.org.
TREY D. HUNTER
The Lord’s Prayer is a pattern prayer
“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: 15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew 6:14-15). This prayer is known famil-
iarly as “The Lord’s Prayer,” but “The Disciples’ Prayer” would be a more accurate title. Jesus did not give this prayer
By THE REV. RON PURKEY
to us to be memorized and recited a given number of times. In fact, he gave this prayer to keep us from using vain repetitions. Jesus did not say, “Pray in these words.”
He said, “Pray after this manner;” that is, “use this prayer as a pattern, not as a substitute.”
The purpose of prayer is to glorify God’s name, and to ask for help to accomplish his will on earth. This prayer begins with God’s interests, not ours: God’s name, God’s kingdom, and God’s will.
Bible teacher Robert Law has said, “Prayer is a mighty instrument, not for getting man’s will done in heaven, but for getting God’s will done in earth.” We have no right to ask God for anything that will dishonor his name, delay his kingdom, or disturb his will on earth.
It is worth noting that there are no singular pronouns in this prayer; they are all plural. It begins with “Our father.” When we pray, we must remember that we are part of God’s worldwide family of believers.
We have no right to ask for ourselves anything that would harm another member of the family. If we are praying in the will of God, the answer will be a blessing to
all of God’s people in one way or another.
If we put God’s concerns first, then we can bring our own needs. God is concerned about our needs and knows them even before we mention them (Matthew 6:8). If this is the case, then why pray? Because prayer is the God-appointed way to have these needs met (see James 4:1-3).
Prayer prepares us for the proper use of the answer. If we know our need, and if we voice it to God, trusting him for his provision, then we will make better use of the answer than if God forced it on us without our asking.
It is right to pray for daily physical needs, for forgiveness, and for guidance and protection from evil. “Lead us not into temptation” does not mean that God tempts his children (James 1:13-17).
In this petition we are asking God to guide us so that we will not get out of his will and get involved in a situation of temptation (1 John 5:18), or even in a situation of tempting God so that he must miraculously rescue us (Matthew 4:5-7).
In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus taught his disciples to ask for daily provisions, forgiveness of sins, and deliverance from evil. This powerful prayer serves as a guide for believers to seek God’s provision in their lives, but we must pray in God’s will.
Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines free at rcpbibleoutlines. com. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.
Woodlawn Health names new emergency department director
DR. TIMOTHY HAMBURG, D.O.
Woodlawn Health has announced Dr. Timothy Hamburg, D.O., has assumed the role of emergency department director for the health system in partnership with Concord Medical Group.
“We are very pleased with our partnership with Concord Medical Group and the promotion of Dr. Hamburg to medical director for our emergency department.
This is just one of the many things we are doing to earn the right to care for our patients and community,” Paula McKinney, chief nursing officer, stated Hamburg earned his medical degree from Lincoln Memorial University, DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine in Harrogate, Tenn. He completed his residency training in emergency nedicine at Midwestern University, Kingman Regional Medical Center in Kingman, Ariz. Hamburg is board-certified. He and his family reside in Valparaiso.
“I am so grateful to be working with an outstanding group of pro-
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Akron Chamber to host car, truck, and bike show Sept. 21
The Akron Chamber of Commerce will host the 2024 Autumn in Akron Charity Car, Truck and Bike Show on Saturday, Sept. 21, at Pike Memo-
rial Park in Akron, with a rain date of Sunday, Sept. 22.
“We are thrilled that this event was well-received last year by our community and au-
tomobile enthusiasts alike. It is an honor to bring this to our community for the second year in what we hope is an annual event,” said Akron Chamber
TVHS counseling department earns award
Tippecanoe Valley High School announces its counseling department has successfully earned the prestigious Indiana Carrying the Torch to Student Success Bronze Star Award.
This recognition, granted by the Indiana Department of Education and the Indiana School Counselor Association, highlights the work of school counselors, Lacey Wise and Katelyn Bradley.
According to information from the Tippecanoe Valley School Corp., the Bronze Star designation “indicates that Tippecanoe Valley High School has established strong foundational elements for a comprehensive counseling program, addressing the Indiana School Counseling Competencies for Students and the American School Counseling Association’s Mindsets and Behaviors for Student Success.”
“We are extremely proud of our counseling department for earning this recognition,” said TVHS Principal Brandon Kresca. “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our counselors in ensuring that every student receives the support and guidance they need to succeed. Their commitment to fostering a positive and nurturing environment for our students is truly commendable.”
President Orville Haney.
This show is a community fundraising event, and the public is invited to attend. Spectators may attend for free, and the entry fee to show a car, truck or bike is $15 per vehicle.
The show raises funds for the Akron Lions Club’s charities, which benefit people in need in the Akron Community. One hundred percent of the proceeds from this event goes directly to the club.
Registration for the car show is from 10 a.m. to noon, judging starts at 11 a.m. and awards will not begin before 3 p.m. All registration will be done directly at the show.
Show entries must enter the soccer field at 325 N. Virgil St., next to the baseball diamond on the west side of the park. A total of 30 trophies, including the top three in each class, six special interest trophies including Best Paint, Best Engine, Best Rat Rod, Lions’ Choice, Akron Chamber Choice, and People’s Choice, and a 40-inch Best of Show trophy, will be awarded. Best of Show will also receive $100.
Classes are broken down by decade, with a separate class for motorcycles. All years, makes and models are welcome.
Wheels on Fire-Cancer Crusaders is providing concessions, and all the proceeds from the sale of food goes to help cancer patients in Kosciusko and Fulton counties. There will also be a DJ providing music and raffles and cash prizes up for grabs for show entries.
More information may be found at autumninakroncarshow.com or at facebook.co/autumninakroncarshow.
Questions may be directed via email to the show’s organizer and administrator, Nancee Ward, at nanceeward@gmail. com or calling/texting (574) 835-5280.
For more information about the Akron Chamber, contact or text Haney at (574) 505-1681. For more information about Akron Lions Club, contact Faith Kamp at (574) 835-1899.
If you wish to become a food vendor or sponsor, forms are available on the website or by contacting Ward.
Chamber’s ‘Coffee and Conversation’ Sept. 12
The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce is having Coffee and Conversation on Thursday, Sept. 12, for Chamber members. It starts at 7:30 a.m. at Jarrety’s Place, 701 Main St., Roches-
ter, with the cost free and breakfast available for purchase.
People should register for the networking event by contacting Kellie Scobie at the Chamber at kellie@fultoncountychamber.com.
The Indiana Bronze Star School Counseling Award will be officially presented to the counseling department at the annual Indiana School Counselor Association Conference Nov. 14-15 in Indianapolis.
Woodlawn Health
Continued from page 6
fessionals and caring for the Fulton and surrounding communities. I look forward to joining the Woodlawn team for many more years to come,” Hamburg stated.
Concord Medical Group is a physician-owned and operated practice- management organization. Since its inception in 2001, Concord continues to be a leader in quality emergency department provider management for rural hospitals throughout the U.S.
Customer service driven medical care is at the heart
of Concord’s foundation as a practice group. Hamburg is an exceptional fit for Concord and Woodlawn Health’s goal of bringing the feel of hospitality to health care without sacrificing efficiency.
“Dr. Hamburg has proven to be an outstanding leader. His focus on clinical excellence and customer service is building a culture of patient-centered quality care and service that will prove beneficial for all patients, the hospital, and the community,” John Jones, M.D., chief medical officer stated.
BRONZE AWARD The Tippecanoe Valley High School Counseling Department has received the Indiana Carrying the Torch to Student Success Bronze Star Award. Shown from left are Guidance Counselor Katelyn Bradley, Guidance/Attendance Secretary Mary Lu Owens, and Guidance Counselor Lacey Wise. Photo provided by the Tippecanoe Valley School Corp.
Updates and happenings
The Mentone Flying Club is hosting a free, eight-week private pilot ground school. It will start Thursday, Sept. 5, at the Rochester Airport terminal building.
Classes meet 7-10 p.m. Thursday evenings. For information, call Tom Yuhas, (708) 935-7690 or email thomasyuhas@gmail.com to register.
Launch at 2 p.m.; weigh-in begins at 5 p.m. There is a $25 entry fee per boat, plus $10 for big bass.; prizes for first, second and third place. A free-will donation benefits the fire department.
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Rochester Lions Club is offering free vision screening for children 18 months through age 6. It will be from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday, Sept 6, at the Youth Outlet Center, 491 Apache Drive, Rochester.
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A board of public works and safety meeting will be from 7:30-8:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 6, in the Rochester City Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Stop by the Akron Public Library from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 7, and pick up a copy of Kathy Oldfather’s latest book “Follow the Song.” She will be signing copies of her new book. Books will be available for sale during this time or you can purchase one ahead of time on Amazon.
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The Fulton County Democrats will have the annual JFK Dinner at 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7. Tickets for the dinner are $15 or just attend the meeting only. It will be held at 5282 N. Old U.S. 31, Rochester. Those speaking are Jill Long Thompson, Terry Goodin and Lori Camp. An art raffle and 50/50 drawing will be held. All are welcome.
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There will be a fishing tournament from 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 8, at the Nyona Lake boat ramp. Registration will be accepted at the ramp one hour prior to launch.
The Fulton County Choral Club will be performing at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 9, at the Fulton County 4-H Community Building, located at the fairgrounds. For more information on joining the club, contact Sandra Hoffarth at (574) 835-1020.
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Fulton County Farm Bureau’s drive-thru annual meeting is from 4:30-7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 9, at the Fulton County Fairgrounds, 1009 W. Third St., Rochester; receive a boxed dinner and annual meeting materials. Open to all Indiana Farm Bureau members. For more information, contact Stephen Williams at (574) 835-2668.
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A city park board meeting will be at 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 9, in the Rochester City Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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A drainage board meeting will be at 9 a.m. Monday, Sept. 9, in the commissioners’ room, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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DAR will meet at 1 p.m. Monday, Sept. 9, at the Fulton County Museum, 37 E. 375N, Rochester. Meetings are held the second Monday of each month.
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Fulton County BZA meeting will be at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11, in the commissioners’ room, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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Fulton County Commissioners’ meeting will be at 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 16, in the commissioners’
room, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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County Council meeting will be at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 17, in the commissioners’ room, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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The annual Trail of Courage will be from 10 a.m to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21, and 10 a.m to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22. Cost: $10 for adults, $5 children 6-11, and free for kids 5 and under. Located at Fulton County Historical Society, four miles north of Rochester on U.S. 31. For more information, visit fultoncountyhistory.org or call (574) 223-4436.
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A lip sync shindig will be held during the fall festival in Kewanna from 3-4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28, at The Heartery, Kewanna. Individuals, groups, organizations, families and businesses are encouraged to participate. Call or text Jennifer at (574) 316-0278 or email heartery. kewanna@gmail.com by Sept. 6.
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The Youth Outlet Center will be having a bingo fundraiser from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, at the Times Theater, Rochester, for ages 18 and over. Register online at the outletyouthcenter.org.
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Last free fishing day of the year is Saturday, Sept. 28. Indiana residents do not need a fishing license or a trout/salmon stamp to fish the state’s public waters. All other rules, such as seasons, bag and size limits apply.
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The Times Theater, 618 Main St., Rochester, will host “Tour the Times.” Tours begin at 12:15 p.m. on the third Tuesday every of every month and last approximately 45 minutes; free tour and everyone welcome.
September events at Fulton County Public Library
The following events and activities will take place in September in the Fulton County Public Library, 320 W. Seventh St., Rochester.
Adult Activities
Tech Time with Zach, noon, Tuesdays and Thursdays, in the PC office. Monday, Sept. 9
Board meeting, 6 p.m. meeting room B.
Tuesday, Sept. 10
Debbie’s Dandies, galaxy spray painting with Deb and Kelsey, 10:15 a.m. on the arboretum patio.
Makerspace, barn watercolor painting, 4:30 p.m. in meeting room. Sign up required.
Friday, Sept. 13
Bingo, 4:30 p.m. in meeting rooms A & B.
Tuesday, Sept. 17
Debbie’s Dandies, fall bowl pumpkin, 4:30 p.m. in the media commons.
Wednesday, Sept. 18
Pro Bono Legal Aid, 1-3 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 19
Makerspace, playing with clay, 1-4 p.m. in meeting room B.
Friday, Sept. 20
Makerspace, playing with clay, 1-4 p.m. in meeting room B.
Monday, Sept. 30
Makerspace, playing with clay, 1-4 p.m. in meeting room B.
Children And Teen Activities
Tuesday, Sept. 3
Story time with a craft, 10:30 a.m. in meeting room A. Wednesday, Sept. 4
Lego day, 3:30 p.m. in the teen oasis.
Friday, Sept. 6
Makerspace, sketchin’ sessions, 3:30 p.m. in the teen oasis. Sparks (recommended ages 5-12), 4 p.m. in the grand hallway.
Monday, Sept. 9
Let’s paint (ages 12-18), 3:30 p.m. in teen oasis.
Tuesday, Sept.10
Story time with a craft, 10:30 a.m. in meeting room A. Thursday, Sept. 12
Rather be reading, 4 p.m. in the Indiana Room.
Friday, Sept. 13
Makerspace, Sketchin’ Sessions, 3:30 p.m. in teen oasis. Bingo, 4:30 p.m. in meeting rooms
A & B.
Monday, Sept. 16
Teen movie, 3:30 p.m. in teen oasis.
Tuesday, Sept. 17
Story time with craft, 10:30 a.m. in meeting room A.
Wednesday, Sept. 18
Teen craft, 3:30 p.m. in teen oasis.
Thursday, Sept. 19
Kid’s movie, 3:30 p.m. in the children’s department.
Third Thursday Theater (family-friendly movies) 5 p.m. in meeting room B.
Nutrition 101 (ages 12-18), 4 p.m in teen oasis; presented by Purdue Extension.
Friday, Sept. 20
Makerspace, Sketchin’ Sessions, 3:30 p.m. in teen oasis.
Monday, Sept. 23
Teen movie, 3:30 p.m. in teen oasis.
Tuesday, Sept. 24
Story time with a craft, 10:30 a.m. in meeting room A.
Thursday, Sept. 26
Home-school group, 10:30 a.m. in meeting room A & B.
Rather be reading, 4 p.m. in the Indiana Room.
Friday, Sept. 27
Makerspace, Sketchin’ Sessions, 3:30 in teen oasis.
Stuffed animal sleepover, 6 p.m. A live virtual story time will begin at 6:30 p.m. Drop off stuffed animals and they can be picked up next day.
Monday, Sept. 30
Teen movie, 3:30 p.m. in teen oasis.
Akron Public Library grateful for successful summer reading program
Akron Carnegie Public Library’s summer reading program, “Our Adventure Begins At Your Library,” set record numbers in registration, programming attendance, passive programs completed, number of books read, and the prizes awarded.
The library expanded on the theme “Adventures on the Road,” a weekly passive challenge exploring a different location each week and tracking travels across the U.S. Participants “traveled” close to 13,000 miles and were able to get to 40 states in seven weeks. The library handed out over 175 passports for these weekly challenges.
“Adventures on the Road” started with Route 66, where kids made their own adventure books to keep mementos of their summer fun. The next was Florida’s space center, where kids learned about the space program and made their own rocket craft with Adventures in Space.
Heading up the east coast to Nantucket, kids made their own Volkswagen van and surf board for “Adventures Begin at the Beach.”
Hitting the Mohave Desert, kids made sand art and learned about what type of animals you might see there. At Mount Rainier, “Washington in Camping 101,” kids were introduced to safety and fitness, where they put that knowledge into practice by going on a scavenger hunt for “Adventure Begins Outdoors.”
“Adventures in History” took a look at the Lewis and Clark trail with special guest storyteller, Sacagawea. Young patrons and their families headed to Pike Memorial Park for the Storywalk.
Every adventure has to come to
an end. “Adventure Begins in your Backyard” took everyone home to a backyard obstacle course. Kids brought their competitive spirit, as they found themselves fully immersed in the need to be the first to cross the finish line after making their way through a variety of obstacles.
For teens, adventure came with origami maps, flip flop canvas painting with Brenda Ramseier, and making their own adventure diamond coasters. Teens finished their program with a blindfolded obstacle course. They had to rely on a partner for directions to maneuver through the obstacles of crawling, climbing, weaving, pulling, tossing, and finding buried treasures.
To celebrate a successful summer reading program, participants met at Pike Memorial Park July 23 to enjoy the Slides and Such, a BBQ and games program. Approximately 150 kids, teens and adults attended the celebration.
The library also expressed gratitude to Pizza Hut, Dairy Queen, The Igloo, the Tin Caps and Indiana State Fair for providing reading incentives.
Appreciation is given to parents for bringing their children to the library’s programs, and Smith, Sawyer and Smith Insurance, Brenda Ramseier, George Graham, Mark Hawley, Micheala Hawley and Jay Cole for supporting the library.
Lastly, the library appreciates Janet Hawley, Nicole King, Vickie Coughenour, Carol Graham, Kim Robinson, Alana Bogle and April Gearhart for their hours given to making a memorable summer reading program.
National Public Lands Day Sept 28-29
National Public Lands Day is Saturday, Sept. 28. During that weekend, Hoosiers can celebrate by supporting their favorite Department of Natural Resources property by doing volunteer work or simply visiting. DNR properties will have a variety of programs for guests to volunteer or to see volunteers in action.
On Sunday, Sept. 29, Indiana state parks, Indiana state forests and state recreation areas will offer free admission where
Farm Bureau to hold annual meeting Sept. 9
Fulton County Farm Bureau will hold its drive-thru annual meeting. It will be held between 4:30-7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 9, at the Fulton County Fairgrounds, 1009 W. Third St., Rochester. People will receive a boxed dinner and the annual meeting materials. It is open to all Indiana Farm Bureau members.
For more information, contact Stephen Williams at (574) 8352668.
entrance fees are normally charged.
Events include: hikes, pioneer activities, crafts, fishing programs, live bird shows, volunteer activities and more.
For a complete list of programs, visit events.IN.gov/dnr.
TOP AUGUST GARDENER Dan and Jennifer Shafer were some of the top gardeners for August as selected by the Rochester Garden Club. They live at 1223 Main St., Rochester. Photo by Leah Sander.
TOP FLOWERS First Federal Savings Bank of Rochester, 301 E. Ninth St., was chosen as one of the top gardeners for August by the Rochester Garden Club. Photo by Leah Sander.
Indiana’s craft distillers look ahead
By CASEY SMITH Indiana Capital Chronicle
Now a decade since Indiana’s craft spirit licenses came online, Hoosier distillers say business is continuing to climb — and there’s more alcohol tourism still untapped.
Although Prohibition ended in 1933, it wasn’t until 2013 that Indiana lawmakers afforded distillers the right to launch craft spirit businesses and sell directly to consumers.
That’s opened doors for dozens of distilleries and tasting rooms across the state, many of which are aiming to become tourist destinations in their own right. To date, regulators have approved
more than 70 active permits to let roughly three dozen distilleries make and sell vodka, bourbon, whiskey and other spirits directly to the public, according to Indiana’s Alcohol and Tobacco Commission.
Some were producing beer or wine before artisan permits opened up, but many of the up and coming distillers have only started up within the last few years.
“Distilling has been around in Indiana for a really long time, but for craft distilling — what we consider in the modern sense — it’s really what’s kicked off here in the last ten years thanks to the General Assembly. And since then, there’s been a huge growth in this market,” said Cardinal Spirits
co-founder Jeff Wuslich.
A History Of Hoosier Distilling
Throughout Prohibition, only a handful of distilleries in Kentucky and Tennessee were allowed to operate in the United States, most of them for “medicinal purposes.” After prohibition ended, Kentucky has largely claimed a monopoly on the whiskey industry.
The epicenter of production is an 1847 distillery in Lawrenceburg, once known as “Whiskey City, USA,” across the Ohio border from Cincinnati.
The Rossville Distillery was purchased by Seagram’s in 1933 and eventually bought by Midwest Grain Producers in 2011. After a name change, the present-day Ross & Squibb Distillery produces dozens of different liquors, bottled under various big brand names like Angel’s Envy, Bulleit Rye, Ezra Brooks, High West, Seagram’s, Templeton and Tito’s.
Still, it wasn’t until the 2013 legislative session, however, that state lawmakers greenlit the Indiana Artisan Distiller’s Permit, which now allows Hoosier distillers to sell directly to consumers — rather than through a distributor or at grocery stores.
Widening Spirits’ Reach
Jeff McCabe, co-founder and executive chairman of Brown County’s Hard Truth Distilling Company, said Indiana’ distillers have already seen “incredible success,” earning national and international recognition for the quality of their spirits.
Even so, McCabe, who also serves as president of the Indiana Distillers Guild, said there’s still “a lot of room for businesses to grow.” Better marketing is high on the guild’s list.
But for an individual distillery to launch a national campaign is “a huge investment.” McCabe said he wants to see Indiana’s artisan distillers work together with the state “to promote the industry and more tourism.”
Nearby Bear Wallow Distillery — Indiana’s first retail distillery, opened in August 2014 — has already doubled the size of its building in Nashville. Owner Susan Spagnuolo said the small distillery’s biggest ask, currently, is the ability to ship spirits.
Spagnuolo said direct-to-consumer shipping — an option for Hoosier beer and wine producers — would allow small-scale distillers to sell more products and help attract more visitors to the distillery’s taproom. Existing law requiring distillers to ship through a distributor drives down profit margins and precludes many small producers, she noted.
On the legislative front, “there
will always be things we want,” McCabe said, “but we’re in this for the long term.”
Changes to Indiana’s alcohol laws often take multiple legislative sessions — meaning several years — to get across the finish line.
McCabe said the guild is especially looking to increase distillers’ access to markets and “simplifying regulations.”
Among ongoing conversations with legislators are requests for
more festival permits — which allow distillers to host public tastings and sales outside their taproom — as well as lobbying for direct-to-consumer shipping, though McCabe said “that’s a longer putt and will take longer to do.”
Barnes said he also wants to see spirits “be treated just like a wine or a beer” in Indiana.
Additionally, he hopes state laws can be loosened to allow distillers to collaborate on spirit concoctions.
Laundry soap and trash bags sale
The Fulton Liberty Lions Club is set to begin taking orders for their biannual laundry soap and trash bags sale fundraiser starting Sept. 9 and ending Sept. 20. Pickup of products will be from 9-11 a.m. Sept. 28 at the Fulton Community Center.
Order forms will be available at the Fulton Library and the Fulton Post Office. Products available to purchase: five-gallon buckets of laundry soap, five-gallon buckets of softener, laundry pods, dish soap, scent beads, dishpaks and trash bags. You can also contact Beth Burton at (574) 857-6750 or Janet Tuley at (574) 835-6920 to order or with any questions.
Beacon Credit Union announces Rochester Member Appreciation Day
Beacon Credit Union, along with the Beacon Ag Group, is excited to announce details for the 2024 Rochester Member Appreciation Day. This year will mark 93 years of serving their member-owners. Beacon is looking forward to showing its appreciation by celebrating their member-owners with themed events at the Member Centers.
“Our member-owners are very important to us, they are the center of everything we do,” states Dusty Cuttriss, president/ CEO. “We are blessed and grateful to have their support. With-
out such great member-owners, Beacon Credit Union would not be where it is today.”
The Rochester Member Centers will be celebrating with member-owners on Friday, Sept. 13, during regular business hours. Celebrations will take place at 504 Main St. and 430 Rouch Place Drive in Rochester. Members can expect food, fun, giveaway entries and excitement with Beacon Credit Union staff.
Follow Beacon Credit Union on social media for additional information.
Local students named to dean’s list
The following local students were recently named to the dean’s list of their respective colleges/universities:
Ivy Tech Fort Wayne Akron — Allie Ellenwood Rochester — Dalton Alber, Crystal Lewis
Critics say Indiana-made dairy cow feed additive is ‘overblown’
By GRACE HUSSAIN
Sentient, Indiana News Service
A new feed additive intended to reduce methane emissions in dairy cows is now the first of its kind to be allowed for sale in the United States. Sold under the brand name Bovaer, the drug passed FDA review in just under twelve months, far shorter than industry standard. Now some lawmakers want to make this fast-tracked process standard for the entire feed industry — an industry that has billions of dollars riding on the so-called “climate-friendly” meat and milk market.
Bovaer’s manufacturer, Elanco, may not be a household name, but the veterinary pharmaceutical maker is poised to play a critical role in marketing industrial meat and dairy as sustainable. If the proposed law were to pass, it would be a financial boon to an industry that is projected to be valued at nearly $100 billion by 2027.
Feed companies like Cargill and their trade associations back the policy change. Cargill spent over $1.3 million on lobbying in 2023, and the American Feed Industry Association employed four DC lobbyists last year to help push for the proposed legislation.
New Drug Touts Climate Benefits to Pass FDA Review
Bovaer, or 3-nitrooxypropanol or 3-NOP, is already being sold for use in both beef and dairy production in more than 50 countries. The drug’s compound works by inhibiting the enzyme responsible for producing methane inside the cows’ intestines. And according to Elanco’s testing, the drug can cut methane emissions by 30 percent for dairy cattle. But
the FDA did not independently test these claims and a metaanalysis of 3-NOP trials has found a wider range of results. Sentient has submitted a public records request to review what Elanco subitted to the FDA.
Now that Bovaer is available for use in the U.S., Elanco can allow the farmers who participate in the carbon credit market it funds, Athian, to feed the new drug to dairy cows and claim the carbon credits.
Athian is a different model of carbon market. Typical carbon markets work by allowing companies and groups to monetize various forms of climate action. Even though touted as an essential part of global climate action by the United Nations, many carbon markets have been criticized for high rates of fraud and worthless credits.
Earlier this year, Athian hosted its first sale of carbon credits, at the time generated by a dairy farm that fed its cows a different Elanco-owned feed additive. Called Rumensin, this drug is used to stimulate increased milk production in dairy cows.
Athian works differently, by selling what are called “carbon insets,” which are different from the traditional model of “carbon offsets.” Typical offsets allow companies to pay someone else, like a conservation group, to plant trees or rewild barren farmland as a way to offset their own pollution. Carbon insets, on the other hand, are a newer idea: these allow polluting companies the ability to trade on their own efforts to slash emissions in their supply chain.
Critics of insets say that many of these reductions should be taking place across polluting industries anyway, not giving the
companies even more financial incentives to do what is necessary to reduce food sector emissions. Feed additives are a perfect example. The dairy industry is fueling 11 percent of methane emissions each year — with a single dairy cow able to emit up to 264 pounds of methane in that time. If feed additives work even a little, they should be industry standard, these critics say.
New Legislation Would Fast-Track Feed Additive Approval
For now, feed additives like Bovaer that “affect the structure or any function of the body of an animal” are regulated as drugs, which usually require manufacturers like Elanco to submit to a lengthy and expensive review by the FDA’s Center for Veterinary
Medicine. The typical review process for new animal drugs can take almost a decade and cost tens of millions of dollars.
The new law would drastically scale back the FDA’s review. Called the Innovative FEED Act, the proposed legislation is supported by leading livestock industry groups, including the American Feed Industry Association.
Congressman Greg Pence (R-IN) is among the bipartisan group of lawmakers who introduced the bill in December 2023. One of the lawmakers, Angie Craig (D-MN), has received $14,300 in funds associated with feed company Cargill this year. If passed, the FEED Act would allow fast-track review for all feed additives, by reclassifying them as “zootechnical animal food substances,” not drugs.
The new law would make it easier to commercialize feed additives. Yet Jennifer Molidor, PhD who leads Center for Biological Diversity’s sustainable food campaigns, says there is little evidence showing these additives are effective. “(Many) of the claims about feed additives are speculative (and largely overblown),” Molidor told Sentient in an email.
Earlier this year, 200 experts surveyed by Harvard University said they overwhelmingly agreed. The researchers called for a broader food system shift to truly address climate change, one that moves away from eating too much meat and dairy — with or without drugs like Bovaer — in favor of eating a more plant-forward diet.
Indiana Management Performance Hub encourages agencies to embrace data
By MIA HILKOWITZ Indiana Capital Chronicle
The Indiana Management Performance Hub is encouraging state agencies to embrace data in their work through a new artificial intelligence policy and data proficiency course.
Jeff Mullins, communications director for the MPH, said the agency helped the state’s chief data officer create and release a policy on using AI in state government. The policy, released this
past February, guides state agencies on how to ethically implement AI to collect and interpret data.
This policy relies on the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s artificial intelligence risk management framework, and was released shortly before Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb signed a law to establish an “AI taskforce” to study how state agencies can use the technology.
“We’ve got to leverage AI responsibly,” he said.
The MPH also launched a data proficiency course for state employees in 2023. In the course, employees can earn up to three badges, and Mullins estimates employees have collected around 3,700 badges.
“It’s another way for them just to make sure they understand that data is very important to their jobs,” Mullins said. “Every employee really has a data job, whether it’s data entry or you know, the data scientists. Data Continued on page 12
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Indiana Archaeology Month in September
This month marks the 29th anniversary of a statewide celebration of archaeology in Indiana.
Throughout September, Hoosier history buffs can meet archaeologists and learn about the state’s fascinating past. Through the prior years’ celebrations, thousands of members of the public have been able to experience archaeology.
A variety of events for all ages will be offered by universities, museums, organizations, and individuals throughout Indiana, coordinated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Division of Historic Preservation & Archaeology. A schedule is available here.
“Archaeology tells us about the past, and Archaeology Month provides a perfect way for Hoosiers to learn about the science,” said Dan Bortner, DNR director and State Historic Preservation Officer.
This year’s commemorative poster focuses on the State Archaeological Survey. In the spring of 1920, the National Research Council Chairman of the Committee on State Archaeological Surveys traveled to Indianapolis with the intent of starting the systematic survey of all Indiana counties. Previously, recording Indiana’s archaeological sites had occurred sporadically.
Administration of the statewide survey fell to the State Department of Conservation (now known as the DNR), which then had a Division of Geology, and the Indiana Historical Commission. In that more methodical era, between the 1920s and the early 1960s, more than 20 of Indiana’s counties were systematically surveyed, and the reports were published by the Indiana Historical Bureau.
“Recognizing the looming threats to Indigenous and Eu-
roamerican heritage from newly proposed highways, reservoirs, and other infrastructure projects, these early surveyors were on the road to preservation,” said DHPA’s Amy Johnson, the state archaeologist. “We are proud that the DNR was there at the beginning of the State Archaeological Survey and that today,
the DHPA continues to lead the statewide efforts for protecting and preserving Indiana’s heritage.”
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the first published survey reports, which covered Lawrence and Washington counties.
The poster and an in-depth
Indiana Management
Continued from page 11
entry
ects.”
Former Indiana Gov. Mike Pence established the MPH through a 2014 executive order, originally as a data-sharing system meant to help the governor and his staff determine how well state agencies were performing. The 2017 Indiana Open Data Act later officially codified the MPH as a standalone state agency.
For the last seven years, the MPH has also hosted “Data Day,” a conference designed to help attendees learn how to use data to address issues in education, workforce development and public health. During the 2024 conference, the MPH organized panels about how to use data to identify overdose intervention methods, analyzing pregnancy and health care data and more.
Mullins said the hub had approximately 5-10 employees in 2014. Now, he said there are 38 MPH employees.
“The data space is growing every day, I mean it’s just everywhere,” Mullins told the Indiana Capital Chronicle. “The technology is evolving so quick.”
The MPH also has outside contracts with private entities. According to data on the Indiana Transparency Portal, the MPH
has held contracts with at least eight private groups, including open-software group Posit, Staples, healthcare software group HC1 and other research and law firms. While most of these outside contracts ranged from $18,000-$2 million, the MPH’s contract with Resultant LLC, a data and technology consulting firm, was valued at $15 million. The agency also had contracts with Indiana University and Wayne State University.
Recent Initiatives
The MPH works with a wide variety of state stakeholders ranging from the governor’s office to legislators to “agencies of all sizes,” according to Mullins.
“We partner with them on data initiatives, especially ones that cross agency initiatives, that require maybe data sets from multiple agencies,” he said. “We kind of serve as the agent there to make sure that everything can be connected properly.”
Mullins said that sometimes state leaders and agencies will come to the MPH to request help with a project, like when the governor’s office requested help collecting and analyzing data on opioid treatment, prevention and enforcement for its “Next Level Recovery” initiative.
But sometimes an MPH initiative is spurred from laws enacted by the legislature. For example, a 2006 Indiana law requires the Office of Management and Budget to report the progress of the state’s school corporations to the State Board of Education, Governor and General Assembly — so the MPH helps track and collect data for this initiative.
“We always like to remind and mention, you know, we are an agent of the agencies. We don’t house any constituent services,” Mullins said. “I think it’s important for us to always remind everyone that we’re working with agencies. These are not just projects that we are doing standalone without input or anything like that.”
The MPH has aided more
discussion of the design are available at the website listed earlier.
Overall, archaeologists have recorded more than 75,000 sites in Indiana since the early 1800s, helping shape public understanding of the people who have called the land we now call Indiana home.
than a dozen other state projects including working with state agencies to create a heat map showing naloxone administrations, track arrest rates by county and crime type and improve the tracking of Medicaid data.
The state budget for 202325 allocated more than $9 million to the MPH for fiscal year 2024, and around $9.8 million for fiscal year 2025. This appropriation is around a $2 million increase from the state’s investment in MPH in 2022 and 2023, when the state budget allocated around $7.4 million for each year.
Value Of Data In State Government Work
Mullins said the biggest challenges the MPH faces when developing large-scale data initiatives is making sure it uses “clean data,” meaning that all the data is consistent without errors or outliers. He said clean data is necessary to make new AI systems work properly.
“There’s so much data available,” Mullins said. “Some of its old data. There’s many state agencies that are required to report data using federal demographic standards, for instance, and sometimes those standards vary from federal agency to federal agency. When we try to bring that state level data together, there’s a lot of cleansing that has to be done.”
He also said using data promotes “transparency and accountability” in the state government. For instance, he said the MPH has worked with the state comptroller’s office to add data to the Indiana Transparency Portal, which hosts publicly available information including state employment and salaries, the state finances and travel activity. The MPH’s Indiana Data Hub also includes public databases on education, public safety, health and environmental services.
Mullins said the ability to use data is “crucial” for state government agencies to make “data-driven decisions.”
“Especially during a crisis, data informs those emergency responses since you’re able to allocate resources and coordinate efforts and protect citizens with real time information,” Mullins said.
Report: Indiana girls struggle with bullying, yet excel academically
By JOE ULERY Indiana News Service
A new report highlighted girls in Indiana face higher rates of bullying and sexual dating violence compared to boys.
The 2024 Indiana Girl Report, produced by the Indiana Youth Institute, Girl Coalition of Indiana and Girl Scouts,
Indiana is among top 3 states for dangerous laser strikes, federal crime
Dangerous laser strikes nationwide topped all previous records in 2023; Indiana is ranked the third state with the most incidents. The Federal Aviation Administration received 13,304 reports from pilots last year, a 41 percent increase over 2022.
Shining a laser at an aircraft is a serious safety threat. Many types of high-powered lasers can incapacitate pilots, many of whom are flying airplanes with hundreds of passengers. Pilots have reported 313 injuries since the FAA began recording data on laser strikes in 2010.
“The FAA is committed to maintaining the safest air transportation system in the world. Aiming a laser at an aircraft is a serious safety hazard that puts everyone on the plane and on the ground at risk,” said FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker.
People who shine lasers at aircraft face FAA fines of up to
$11,000 per violation and up to $30,800 for multiple laser incidents. Violators can also face criminal penalties from federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.
“Like many crimes, there’s a need for education, outreach and cooperation from the public to address this safety risk. We encourage you to report laser strikes to the FAA via our website or to your local law enforcement agency,” said Whitaker.
To identify laser-strike trends, the FAA’s visualization tool, explore.dot.gov/t/ FAA/views/LaserHazards/ Main?%3Aembed=yes#3, shows laser-strike data from 2010 to 2023 and highlights trends by geographic area, per capita data, time of day and year. The FAA shares the information to draw attention to the dangerously high rate.
Laser report data by year can also be downloaded on the
The FAA strongly encourages the public to report laser strikes to the FAA and local law enforcement agencies.
For more information on laser strikes, watch a video at youtube.com/watch?v=XfUnGVhKKVc about the dangers of lasers, visit the website www. faa.gov/about/initiatives/lasers/ and read a fact sheet www.faa. gov/newsroom/lasers-0?newsId=23535.
emphasized the need for better mental health support and violence prevention in communities.
Tami Silverman, president and CEO of the Indiana Youth Institute, said the report helps Hoosiers better understand all girls’ experiences.
“It’s good to say, ‘this is what I know about those girls closest to me and how is that similar to or different from the experiences girls in other parts of our state are having,’” Silverman explained. “That’s why the data is great because it really checks our own biases.”
While girls in the state excel academically, particularly in reading, they also experience significant challenges. Nearly 17% of high school girls reported experiencing sexual dating violence and many struggle with mental health issues at twice the rate of boys.
In fact, Silverman pointed out the number of reports of bullying and sexual dating violence are increasing for girls in Indiana.
“Girls who report being bullied at school has gone up significantly,” Silverman reported.
“The number of female high school students who reported sexual dating violence in the past year is seven times higher than that for male students.”
Schools are encouraged to implement trauma-informed practices and address issues like bullying and sexual harassment.
Silverman noted the report concludes with a call for policymakers to invest in mental health programs and address economic and racial disparities to improve the overall well-being of Hoosier girls.
“This is only the second time we’ve done this,” Silverman added. “Last year’s Girl Report was wonderfully well-received and many local areas did take this information to look at how might we better expand our services or change our services to make sure that girls are reaching their full potential.”
We have an opening for an individual with strong mechanical and electrical skills to maintain, troubleshoot and repair electrical, pneumatic and mechanical issues in our plant and on various pieces of printing, bindery and mailing equipment.
Bidding open until 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 5. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Fine jewelry collection including gold, silver, turquoise, gemstones, cameos, pocket watches, watches, Native American, US Navy, Rings, necklaces, bolos, bracelets, earrings. Bid online at metzgerauction.com. Metzger Property Services.
Mechanics Tool Auction
10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 7. Located at 516 W. Madison St., Plymouth.
Online Only Coin Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 8. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Silver dollars and rounds, gold and silver certificates, musical instruments including over 25 violins, coins and currency, knife collection, proof and mint sets, red seal
currency, coin books. Bid online at metzgerauction.com.
Metzger Property Services.
Online Only Vehicle & Farm Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 10. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Vehicles, motorcycles, ATVs, boats, trailers, construction, fleet trucks, classic cars, farm equipment. Bid online at metzgerauction.com. Metzger Property Services.
Tim Rohm Estate
6 p.m. Sept. 11, at 518 N. Franklin St., Mentone. Three-bedroom, one-bath home. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Live Simulcast
Industrial Supply Auction
10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 12. Pick up located at 505 Strauss Provimi Road, North Manchester. Electric motor, pumps, gearboxes, robot arms and con-
trollers, valves, MRO supplies, forklift, order pickers, pallet racking, pallet wrapper. Bid online at metzgerauction.com.
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 17. Pickup located in Akron, exacting details in winning invoice. Tractor, skid loader, equipment, 200-plus toy tractors, trucks, semis and equipment, vintage Barbies, games, sports cards, antiques, primitives, glassware, porcelain, furniture, hen on nests, vintage electronics, household, outdoor. Bid online at metzgerauction.com. Metzger Property Services.
Hensley, Roe honored at GOP Tribute To Women event
Two Fulton County women were honored at the Indiana Federation of Republican Women’s 43rd Annual Tribute to Women on Friday, Aug. 23.
Third-year Fulton County Republican Women’s Club President Kasey Hensley was honored with a certificate for achieving 70k Club Status. This recognition is given when a club’s membership reaches 70 members or more.
Amy Roe, involved with the Fulton County Republican Women’s Club and the county’s GOP Central Committee, was also recognized as the IFRW Fulton County honoree.
“Amy is an extraordinary example of a woman with a true servant’s heart. She strives to make a positive community impact daily,” said Hensley of Roe, who nominated her for the award.
All Fulton County women are welcome to attend the next Re-
HENSLEY HONORED Fulton County Republican Women’s Club President Kasey Hensley was honored at the Indiana Federation of Republican Women’s 43rd Annual Tribute to Women, on Friday, Aug. 23, for the club reaching 70 members or more. Photo provided by Hensley.
publican Women’s Club meeting at 5:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 28, at the Fulton County Historical
Society, 37 E. 375N, Rochester. There will be a presentation on internet safety.
Harold Zisla Exhibit opens Sept. 15 at Jewish Federation
The Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley in South Bend has announced the opening of its fall art exhibition, “Harold Zisla: Artistic Explorations,” on Sunday, Sept. 15.
The exhibition showcases a selection of Zisla’s paintings from
the permanent collections of the South Bend Museum of Art, Indiana University South Bend’s Raclin School of the Arts, Temple Beth-El in South Bend and several private collectors.
The exhibit spans Zisla’s pro-
lific career from the 1950s until shortly before his passing in 2016 at the age of 90, offering a comprehensive look at his artistic evolution from realistic portraiture to abstract imagery.
Visitors will have the opportu-
nity to engage with Zisla’s work, which is renowned for its creativity, intensity, complexity and emotional depth. The exhibit provides a unique glimpse into the artist’s development and invites viewers to experience the essence of Zisla through his art.
“The South Bend Jewish community was an essential part of my parents’ lives, beginning when Harold and Doreen moved to the area in 1951 until my mother died in 2021,” says Paul Zisla, Harold’s son. “The Jewish Federation’s sponsorship of this exhibition, honoring Harold’s contributions to the artistic life of the community, holds deep significance. Much the same can be
said about the participation and support of the South Bend Museum of Art and Indiana University South Bend.”
The exhibition will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mondays through Fridays from Monday, Sept. 16, through Friday, Dec. 13, at the Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley, located at 3202 Shalom Way in South Bend.
The opening celebration will take place from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 15, and will feature remarks by Paul Zisla.
For more information about the exhibit, visit the Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley’s website at TheJewishFed.org/Zisla. Everyone is invited.
ROE RECOGNIZED Fulton County Republican Women’s Club member and Central Committee member Amy Roe was recognized at the IFRW’s Annual Tribute to Women on Aug. 23 as the Fulton County honoree. Photo provided by Kasey Hensley.
