Shopping Guide News - September 25, 2024

HEARING

RFD to have family safety day event Sept. 28

By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer

The Rochester Fire Department wants area residents to be prepared for National Fire Prevention Month in October.

Therefore, it’s having a family safety day event on Saturday, Sept. 28. It will be from noon to 3 p.m. at the RFD station, 2006 E. SR 14.

RFD Assistant Chief Jamie Gagnon said it’s been five years since something slightly similar was held. That event had a firefighter obstacle course for children.

Children may do that course again on Sept. 28. In addition, Parkview Health will have its helicopter at the event at 1:30 p.m.

Lutheran Health will do car seat checks, and there will be an extrication demonstration done.

Also present at the event will be the Rochester Police Department, Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, Fulton County Emergency Management Agency, and Fulton County Health Department.

Gagnon noted planning for the event started awhile back.

“New younger members on the department wanted to get the community (involved with the RFD),” he said.

Gagnon said he hoped community members coming to the event learn about “fire safety.”

FAMILY SAFETY DAY EVENT The Rochester Fire Department is having a family safety event at its station at 2006 E. SR 14. The last time the department had a similar event was in 2019 when it had a firefighter obstacle course for kids to go through.

Shown at the 2019 event are kids with firefighters from left T.J. DuBois, Jeff Zellers, Ryan Utter, Michael Hicks and Jerry Heckathorn. Photo provided by the RFD.

OBSTACLE COURSE Rochester firefighter Jerry Heckathorn, right, helps a child with part of the obstacle course. In the background is Kaleb Shaffer, now a Rochester firefighter. Photo provided by the RFD.

WITH THE HOSE Rochester firefighter, T.J. DuBois, left, walks the obstacle course with a child. Photo provided by the RFD.

Rochester firefighter, Brandon Cody, left, watches as a child rolls a hose during the obstacle course. Photo provided by the RFD.

Environmental specialist looks out for the welfare of the community

By LAURIE LECHLITNER Staff Writer

“I grew up in an agricultural community and was a proud member of FFA,” stated Wyatt Dyson. “I was on the soil testing team in high school. I think those experiences led me to my present job as an environmental specialist. Some may think that testing water for contaminates and supervising the installation of sewer systems is dirty work. But I love it. I’m looking out for the welfare of the community.”

Dyson graduated from Purdue

with an agronomy degree concentrating on soil and water sciences.

“I started working for the Fulton County Health Department in July 2022.”

One of his jobs is to make sure septic systems are installed correctly and everything is up to code. “This allows me to work with soil scientists, going over their reports. I also make sure there’s a valid septic permit.”

He’s also in charge of water testing. “I test ditch water and lake water. My goal is to make sure these water sources are not a risk to public health. We have a de-

Outlet Youth Center to host bingo fundraiser

The Outlet Youth Center is holding a bingo fundraiser from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, at The Times Theater, 618 Main St., Rochester. Tickets are $50 a person if purchased in advance and $60 at the door.

Each ticket purchase comes with 10 games of bingo, a green dauber, and a chance to win some exciting prizes from the community.

Some of these prizes will include a free round of golf at the Round Barn Golf Course, a free year of movie admittance to The Times Theatre, gift card to The Mustard Seed Mercantile, and many more plus 50/50 raffle tickets will also be available for $5 a ticket. Concessions at the theater will also be available for purchase.

All proceeds will go to support the mission of The Outlet Youth Center. Proceeds will go toward the groceries The Outlet uses to cook daily dinners, snacks, school supplies, child transportation costs, and program supplies for various daily clubs.

“The Outlet Youth Center would not exist without the support of our community, and we hope the support will continue at our bingo fundraiser on Sept. 28,” said Outlet Executive Director Taylor Showley.

Tickets can be purchased online for $50 at outletyouthcenter.org or at The Outlet building, located at 491 Apache Drive, Rochester. Tickets can also be purchased at the door for $60.

partment lawyer and sometimes I deem it necessary to take a person or organization to court.”

Dumping wastewater in rivers or lakes is strictly prohibited. “Unless it’s treated it’s a pollutant. The people responsible need to work to bring the body of water back up to code. They can get help and handles from representatives at the state level. They give the best advice on how to move forward.”

A typical day for Dyson starts with scheduling septic installers. Then he looks into complaints from members of the community. “Sometimes those complaints are just neighborly disputes. I survey the situation and determine whether it’s valid for public health. If it is, the offender needs to clean it up or risk a court order and possible fine.

“I enjoy the fact that I work with a lot of good people. Soil scientists are good sources of information. The septic installers we have do great work. They don’t try to pull a fast one or fly under the radar.”

It’s not only the meetings with people that motivate Dyson. He also feels like he’s making a difference in the environment. “When human sewage is dumped into rivers, lakes and streams it makes it unsafe for the public. We work together to fix that problem and promote the health of not only the general public but the environment.”

The health department is a busy place. “I see people coming in for vital records like birth and death certificates, families coming in for vaccines, and new restaurants for our food inspector. We’re all working together to promote healthy living.”

Dyson recommends FFA to high school students. “My FFA advisor taught me to be a better person. I developed a good work attitude and made life-long friendships. I also had a lot of fun. I was on the soil judging team in high school and followed it up at college.”

Everyday Dyson learns something new. “Much of that is intentional. It’s important to keep up with issues that deal with water

safety and health. My job is filled with new information.”

He and his wife Hannah were married in October 2022. They

By KYLE SOMMERS MSN, FNP-BC Woodlawn Health

Editor’s Note: Kyle Sommers is an occupational nurse practitioner for Woodlawn Health.

I am willing to bet each of you has a long list of tasks you’re rushing to complete daily. We all know the work never ends, yet we rush through the day anyway. We are unaware of the toll it takes on our bodies. Until we reach too far, or try to carry too much in one trip, then we feel that strained muscle. Once injured, we are quickly aware of the small movements we take for granted. Suddenly, small daily tasks take twice as long.

So how can one accomplish everything on their lists and prevent those minor injuries that can be annoying?

The answer to that question is proper body mechanics. Proper body mechanics refers to how one holds and uses their bodies as they move. Each movement results from a complex coordinated effort of muscles, ligaments, bones and ones nervous system. This happens without being aware of it. Being mindful of how to move maximizes your ability to prevent injury.

As you move about your day, it is very easy to lose sight of everything happening within your body to help accomplish the simplest of tasks. By focusing on the following principles, you can regain control of your movements and prevent injury.

• Be efficient in planning, organizing, and resting: Plan to ensure enough time to complete the task. Organize by placing items in easy to reach places or having all equipment readily available before starting a task. Allow muscles to recover by resting. Rest can be accomplished by alternating between heavy and light tasks, scheduling work in intervals, or alternating between sitting and standing.

• Utilize proper body alignment and good posture: Proper alignment reduces strain. Keep feet shoulder width apart and bend at the knees instead of the waist. Avoid slouching. Use abdominal muscles and hold objects close to the body when lifting, pivot your

and lift with legs instead of your back.

• Remember to distribute the load: Reduce strain by spreading the load over multiple joints, focusing on letting larger joints and surface areas do the work.

• Always use the minimum necessary force: Decrease strain on joints by using a wide stance, lifting with legs, and holding with constant pressure vs. shoving or squeezing.

• Respect pain: Be aware of what hurts. Modify the activity, adjust your alignment and wear supportive devices as needed. Utilize ice, elevation and ibuprofen to reduce inflammation. The goal is to reduce pain, while still being able to complete the activity.

• Reduce excess body weight: The thing to remember is one to three. Your joints feel approximately three pounds of force for every pound of body weight. Therefore, 10 pounds equals 30 pounds of force on knees or ankles. Losing just a few pounds can relieve stress on your joints.

• Stretch: Daily stretching increases blood flow, promotes healing, maximizes range of motion, increases flexibility, decreases risk of injury and improves your ability to complete physical activities.

Daily effort and small steps yield great rewards. Healthy habits are created when these principles become part of your routine. Each of these principles protects muscles and joints, ultimately reducing your risk of injury and benefiting your overall health.

Contact your personal care provider if you have any questions regarding this information.

WYATT DYSON

live in North Manchester. “We love traveling to Florida a few times a year. I enjoy working outdoors and hanging out with friends.

KYLE SOMMERS, MSN, FNP-BC feet instead of twisting

Jesus’ miracle for the nobleman

(Read John 4:43-54)

“So the father knew that it was at the same hour, in the which Jesus said unto him, Thy son liveth: and himself believed, and his whole house”(John 4:53)

naum, about 17 miles away from Cana. The man wanted Jesus to come with him, for he did not believe that he could cure the boy from a distance. (See Martha’s similar reaction in John 11:21.)

By THE REV. RON PURKEY

This is the second of the seven signs in the Gospel of John. These signs show the way a person is converted and the results that follow. The first two signs took place at Cana in Galilee. Turning the water into wine illustrates that salvation is through the word of God (the Bible). The healing of the son in this chapter shows that conversion is by faith.

The son lay dying in Caper-

Jesus did not go with the man, but instead spoke the words: “Go your way; your son lives.” He believed the word of God!

It would have taken the man only three or four hours to get back home, yet John 4:52 (“yesterday”) indicates that he remained in Cana an entire day. The boy had been cured at 1 in the afternoon, and the next day the father arrived home. This proves he had real faith in Jesus Christ’s word, for he did not rush home to see what happened.

This is the way we are converted — by putting our faith in the word of God. “Christ says it, I believe it, that settles it!” The nobleman apparently stayed in Cana, took care of some business, and

then went home the next day. He had “joy and peace in believing” (Romans 15:13) because his trust was in Jesus Christ’s word alone. He was not surprised when his servants told him, “Your son lives!” He merely asked them when the cure took place and verified that it was the very hour that Christ spoke the word. The result: his whole family trusted Jesus Christ. “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God” (Romans 10:17).

Jesus in John 4:48 gives the basic reason why people will not believe: they want to see signs and experience wonders. Keep in mind that Satan is able to perform signs and wonders to deceive (2 Thessalonians 2:9-10). If your salvation is based on feelings, dreams, visions, voices, or any other fleshly evidence, then you are on dangerous ground. It is faith in the word alone that gives us the assurance of eternal life. (See 1 John 5:9-13.)

Secretary of State Diego Morales announces, ‘I Voted Sticker Contest’ for Hoosier youth

Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales is excited to invite young Hoosiers to participate in the “I Voted Sticker Contest,” an opportunity for children across the state to get involved in the election process. This contest encourages creativity and civic engagement by challenging students to design “I Voted” stickers that will be handed out to voters at polls in November.

How to enter — The contest is open to all Indiana students. Participants must agree to the official rules and submit their design via email (sticker@sos.in.gov) or on a printed official entry form sent in by mail. Submissions for the contest are due by Sept. 30.

Mailing address — Indiana Secretary of State, I Voted Sticker

Competition, 200 W. Washington St., Room 201, Indianapolis, IN 46204.

Judging — The submissions will be judged by a panel, including agency staff and Morales’ wife, who is an artist and a supporter of youth engagement.

The competition will be divided into three groups based on grade level: Kindergarten through third grade, fourth through eighth grade and ninth through 12th grade.

“Our ‘I Voted’ sticker is a symbol of pride for young Hoosiers to get involved in the election process. By inviting children to design stickers, we’re not only encouraging their creativity, also helping them learn about the importance of voting and civic engagement at

a young age. I encourage parents and teachers to spread the word about the contest. I can’t wait to see the sticker designs Hoosier kids create,” said Morales.

The first place winning design from each grade level will be featured on stickers distributed to voters on Election Day, Nov. 5. First place winners will be invited to meet with Morales in the Statehouse. Second and third place winners from each grade level will receive social media recognition and be featured on the Indiana Secretary of State’s website. All winners will receive a certificate.

For more details on the contest and guidelines, visit the Indiana Secretary of State’s website. Only one entry per student is permitted.

Visit two museums at one site

The Lawrence D. Bell Aircraft Museum, Inc. has, for many years, had the original section designated for items about Mentone’s history.

The board of directors voted on Aug. 28, 2018, to officially name that section the Mentone Historical Museum because of the increasing interest and growth of items being donated.

The need for more space has become quite obvious. Therefore, a fund for maintenance and building has been set up for the Mentone Historical Museum at the Kosciusko County Community Foundation.

If you are interested in making a donation for this project, you can make a tax-deductible gift online at kcfoundation.org/ donate and select the Mentone Historical Museum on the donation page. Gifts can also be made with a check payable to Kosciusko County Community Foundation, 102 E. Market St., Warsaw, Indiana 46580. Write “Mentone Historical Museum Fund” on the check’s memo line. Bingo is an ongoing activity in the aircraft side of the museum on the first and third Thursdays of each month. Doors open at 4:30 p.m., early bird bingo starts

at 5:30 p.m., and regular bingo begins at 6 p.m. Food is also available. This income helps pay utilities for both museums.

The museum is also enrolled in the Kroger Community Rewards Program. To participate, visit kroger.com, log into your Kroger account, search for Lawrence D. Bell Aircraft Museum either by name or by organization number WE 010, and click enroll. New Kroger users will need to create an account, which requires some basic infor-

mation, a valid email address, and a rewards card. Once you are enrolled and linked to the museum, your shopping is recorded. This is at no cost to you. This also includes the cost of prescriptions.

Both museums are open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays from June through September. They are also available by appointment for individuals or groups all year. To schedule, call Marsha at (574) 328-2034 or David at (574) 551-8670.

O B ituaries

Change in our obituary policies effective Oct. 7

Effective Monday, Oct. 7, there will be a charge for obituary notices published in The Shopping Guide News of Fulton County.

The Shopping Guide will offer two options to have an obituary published of a loved one.

The first option is a standard one- column obituary, which will cost $20 for up to 250 words and $10 for each additional 100 words.

The second option is a two-column format, which will cost $45 for up to 250 words and $25 for each additional 100 words. This option will be highlighted with a decorative bar across the bottom of the obituary.

For both options, the obituary will include a photo printed in full color.

For the one-column option, the

Jodi A. Miller

Revered Law Enforcement Officer

Jodi A. Miller, 65, Kewanna, passed away unexpectedly at 7:55 a.m. Monday, Sept. 16, 2024, at her home.

On May 27, 1959, Jodi Ann Miller was born in Gibson City, Ill., to Donald Ray and Dyann Cusick Miller. She graduated with the class of 1979 from Todd County Central High School in Elkton, Ky.

A revered law enforcement officer, Jodi initiated her professional career in 1980 as a dispatcher for 13 years. A pioneer, she transitioned as a police officer working the road with Rochester Police Department. Jodi served the city as chief of police from 2008-2012. In 2013, she returned to dispatch through 2016. On March 28, 2016, Jodi was appointed matron of the Fulton County Jail. She was looked to as a leader among her peers, the officers and staff of Fulton County Sheriff’s Office looked to her for wisdom as their “Mother Hen.”

Jodi was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police, Indiana Sheriff’s Association, former board member of Crimestoppers, Drug-Free Fulton County, Shop with A Cop and Big Brothers-Big Sisters.

In her early adult years, Jodi enjoyed exploring the great outdoors, with joy-filled winter adventures skiing and snowmobiling. Her favorite destinations were Colorado and Montana. During the summer months, as an accomplished equestrian, she loved trail riding. Jodi played euchre and all types of card games. Always a part of her morning routine was a few games of Candy Crush while sipping coffee. To stay sharp, she played puzzles. Jodi also loved going to Chris Stapleton concerts with friends.

As a proud grandma known as Mimi, she introduced Brodi to adventures and opportunities to explore, returning to Kentucky frequently over the years. The arrival of Xena lit up her life. She enjoyed the company of her family with visits from Xena and when Brodi came out to grill steaks and taters. Mimi would make the best cherry fluff.

Left to cherish Jodi’s memory are grandson, Brodi Draper; great-granddaughter, Xena of Rochester; sister, Shannon Miller and companion Doug Pfahler of Rochester; brother, Scott Miller of Cadiz, Ky.; sister, Penny Hendricks of Russellville, Ky.; and sister, Pam Wilson of Tennessee. Jodi will be sorely missed by her loving work family at Fulton County Sheriff’s Department, 911-Communications and Rochester City Police Department.

Preceding Jodi in death are her companion of 32 years, Ed Beaird; daughter, Tara Draper; and brother, Jim Fink.

A celebration of the life of Jodi A. Miller was at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25, at Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 W. 18th St., Rochester. Her family received friends from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24, and an hour prior to her services Wednesday. The Fraternal Order of Police No. 143 conducted a memorial service following her life celebration.

Memorials may be made to Shop with a Cop, P.O. Box 284, Rochester, IN 46975 or the Fulton County Animal Education and Adoption Center, 1540 Lucas St., Rochester. Envelopes are available at the funeral home.

Online expressions of sympathy may be made to the family at goodfamilyfh.com.

obituary will include:

Full name, age, town of residence, time, day, date and place of death.

Date of birth, date of marriage, to whom and if the spouse survives or is deceased.

Survivors — list names of parents, sons, daughters, stepchildren, brothers and sisters, including names of spouses and town of

residence. It will list as numbers grandchildren, stepgrandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by names.

Visitation — Time, date and location.

Funeral service — When, where, time and who is officiating. Burial — Cemetery name, when and time.

Samantha M. Jackson Accomplished Poet

Former Rochester resident, Samantha M. Jackson, 34, Hammond, passed away unexpectedly on the evening of Sept. 17, 2024.

On Sept. 13, 1990, Samantha Marie Jackson was born in Mishawaka. She was a cherished daughter of Keri A. Collins. Growing up she shared her childhood with a brother, Raven, and a sister, Rachael. Samantha was a proud member of the Rochester High School class of 2008.

Gifted with pen and ink, Samantha was an accomplished poet expressing her thoughts writing poetry. She enjoyed listening to music, especially while chilling on the hammock in her backyard. With a beautiful warm smile and twinkling blue eyes, Samantha’s presence could light up a room.

Left to cherish Samantha’s memory are her parents, Keri and Lee; a brother, Raven Jackson, all of Hammond; her nieces, Remi Rigney and Laeni Jackson; nephew, Cole Davis; and her maternal grandmother, Sandy Fanning.

Preceding her in death is a sister, Rachael Jackson, in 2013.

A celebration of the life of Samantha Marie Jackson was held from 4-6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 23, at Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 W. 18th St., Rochester.

Memorials in lieu of flowers may be directed to Samantha’s family to assist with final expenses. Online expressions may be made to her family at goodfamilyfh.com.

Rhonda L. Helvey

Rhonda L. Helvey, 57, Akron, died Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024, at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne. She was born on Nov. 18, 1966. On May 22, 1999, she married Todd Helvey; who survives.

Additional survivors are three sons, Matthew (Gabrielle) Helvey, Jonathan Helvey and Seth Helvey; father and mother-in-law, Dennis Helvey and Connie (Hoffman) Helvey; four brothers, Gregg Wilkinson, Neil (Cinthia) Wilkinson, Steven Wilkinson and Brad (Alicia) Wilkinson; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Carroll Wilkinson and Janet (Anderson) Wilkinson.

Funeral services were Monday, Sept. 23, at Mentone First Baptist Church, 206 S. Oak St., Mentone, with Pastor Tim Farley and Pastor Mike Wilhite officiating.

Interment was in the Akron Cemetery, Akron.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Baptist Church, Mentone.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.

David Gordon

‘Red’ Doty Sr.

David Gordon “Red” Doty, Sr., 80, Monterey , died Monday, Sept. 16, 2024, at Northwest Health Porter Hospital, Valparaiso.

He was born on Sept. 11, 1944. On June 12, 1971, he married Mary Elizabeth Heater; who survives.

Additional survivors are daughter, Patty (Jay) Sullivan, Winamac; four sons, Rich (Davon) Doty, Winamac, David (April) Doty Jr., Rensselaer, Melvon (Jen) Doty, Monterey and Charles Doty, Plymouth; 21 grandchildren; sister, Nancy (Jim) Allen; and several great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Ruth (Hunter) Doty; grandson, Michael Nuss; and brother, Michael (Betty) Doty.

The family will host a celebration of life service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at frianmortuary.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary, Winamac.

Memorial contributions and name of funeral home.

Online condolence information.

The two-column obituary will include the above noted information plus any additional information the family wishes to be included.

All obituaries provided by private individuals must be paid in advance of publication.

Ellis Malkom Taylor

Nakira Snider-Conley and Nicolas Taylor are the parents of a son, Ellis Malkom, born Saturday, Aug. 14, in Woodlawn Health. He weighed 7 pounds, 13 ounces, and was 20 inches long.

Maternal grandparents are Marlyn Snider, Rochester, and Joshua and Hana Conley, Rochester. Paternal grandparents are Krista Bradley and Lucas Bradley, Rochester, and Daniel Taylor, Mentone. Maternal great-grandparents are Tina Snider, Rochester, and Matthew Conley, Rochester. Paternal great-grandparents are Terry Warner-Lackey, Warsaw, and Glenn Bradley, Rochester.

Juliet Kay Johnson

Payton and Devin Johnson, Argos, are the parents of a daughter, Juliet Kay, born at 1:50 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 3, in Woodlawn Health. She weighed 8 pounds, 10 ounces, and was 19.5 inches long.

Maternal grandparents are Michael and Angela Fincher, Rochester, and Amanda and Nick Wood, Rochester.

Paternal grandparents are Tammra Eric Johnson, Bourbon. Maternal great-grandparents are Donna and Ed Fincher, Rochester, and Mary and Danny Conley, Rochester. Paternal great-grandparent is Linda Holmes, Bourbon, deceased. Zelda Lauren Covington-Abbott

Erica Covington-Abbott and Jacob Covington are the parents of a daughter, Zelda Lauren, born on Thursday, Sept. 5, in Woodlawn Health.

Maternal grandparents are Rick and Shelley Abbott. Paternal grandparents are Linda Covington and Jerry Covington, deceased. Maternal great-grandparents are Stan and Judy Musgrave.

Leann June Moore

Lyda and Nicholas Moore, Warsaw, are the parents of a daughter, Leann June, born at 2:02 p.m. Saturday, June 14, in Woodlawn Health. She weighed 8 pounds, 3 ounces, and was 20 inches long. She joins sibling Gracelynn Moore, 3.

Maternal grandparents are Jimmy and Amanda Scarberry, Etna Green. Paternal grandparent is Elizabeth Moore, Winona Lake. Oaklee Mae Kalka

Makenzie Vanvactor and Nolan Kalka, Rochester, are the parents of a daughter, Oaklee Mae, born at 11:13 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 18, in Woodlawn Health. She weighed 6 pounds, 9 ounces, and was 19 inches long. She joins sibling Georgia Watts, 1.

JODI A. MILLER

SAMANTHA M. JACKSON

DAVID GORDON ‘RED’ DOTY

RHONDA L. HELVEY

o bitua R ies

Jason L. Reed

Talented Musician And Performer

Jason L. Reed, 49, passed away unexpectedly at 8:32 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 19. 2024.

On Jan. 9, 1975, Jason Lane Reed was born in Rochester. He was a treasured son of David D. and Rosemary Hollos Reed. Growing up he shared his childhood with a brother, Jarrod. He was a 1993 graduate from Rochester High School.

During his earlier years as a talented musician and performer, Jason was a member of some local bands. Seated at his drum set, he supplied perfect rhythm keeping the tempo upbeat leading his fellow band members. Self-taught he also was accomplished with playing both the acoustical and electric guitars. An armchair sports enthusiast, Jason was locked on to tennis, basketball and football. He took special interest in the Chicago Bulls, Golden State Warriors Miami Heat and the NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers. Jason was the proud owner of a unique collection of Michael Jordan memorabilia.

Left to cherish Jason’s memory are his son, Elias Layne Reed and companion, Eloise Gordon, of Kokomo; his mother, Rosemary and David Bellamy of Rochester; his father, David and Pam Reed of Andrews; a brother, Jarrod and Dawn Reed of Wabash; and paternal grandmother, Ann Reed of Florida.

A celebration of the life of Mr. Jason Lane Reed will be at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25, at Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 W. 18th St., Rochester. Pastor Thad Stewart will officiate his service. His family will receive friends at 3 p.m. an hour prior to his services.

Online expressions of sympathy may be made to his family at goodfamilyfh.com.

Violet M. Gagnon

Co-owner Of Former Gagnon Chevrolet

Violet M. “Vi” Gagnon, 86, formerly of Akron, passed at 11:38 p.m. Friday, Sept. 21, 2024, at Timbercrest Senior Living Community of North Manchester.

Vi was born on Dec. 9, 1937, in Wabash County to the late Willard and Candace (Baker) Sitts. On June 26, 1954, she married Marvin P. Gagnon in Akron, who preceded her in death on Oct. 27, 2007.

She was a dedicated homemaker and co-owner of the former Gagnon Chevrolet in Akron, where she also served as the secretary. Earlier in her career, she worked at Harris Drugs and owned a children’s clothing store in Akron. She was a long-time attendee of the Akron Church of God and an active member of the Akron Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, she was involved with the Las Donas Club of Akron and enjoyed contributing to the Akron Lions Club and the Fourth of July festivities. She and her husband were honored as parade marshals on the Fourth of July.

She loved baking cookies, traveling with her husband, and spending time with her grandchildren. Vi and her husband cherished driving their 1972 Chevrolet Impala.

She is survived by her daughter, Kathy and husband Craig Ammerman of Akron; sons, John and wife Lesa Gagnon of Akron, Terry Gagnon and Cindy Bucher of Akron and Bob and wife Pam Gagnon of Rochester; 15 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; sister, Betty Poppy of Delon, Fla.; and brother, Billy “Butch” Sitts of Warsaw.

Vi was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Marvin; granddaughters, Renee Leeann Gagnon and infant Amanda May Gagnon; sister, Mary Shoemaker; and daughter-in-law, Sandy Gagnon.

The funeral service will take place at noon Friday, Sept. 27, at Hartzler Funeral Home, 305 W. Rochester St., Akron, with Pastor Kathy Nelson officiating. The interment will follow in the Roann Community Cemetery, Roann. Visitation hours will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Friday at Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron.

Memorial contributions can be made in her memory to Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, 322 Eighth Ave., 16th Floor, New York, NY 10001.

Share a memory or send an online condolence at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.

R epo R t

Court News

Superior Court

The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Superior Court, Judge Gregory L. Heller presiding: Complaints

LVNV Funding LLC v. Chris Evans, Akron, $36,707.61; Anita Spangle, Rochester, $2,667.66; Casandra Brown, Rochester, $1,532.68; Mary Reese, aka Mary Cornell, Ak-

Kay M. Alber Eiler

Kay M. Alber Eiler, 78, Mentone , died at 5:15 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024, at Warsaw Meadows.

She was born on July 16, 1946. On Dec. 12, 1992, she married Robert Eiler; who preceded her in death on May 7, 2015.

She is survived by her children, Mark E. (Shelly) Alber, Warsaw, Traci Alber Benzing and Tommy Shepherd, Mentone and Paul (Holly) Alber, Rochester; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two sisters, Wanda (Rich) Wilhem, Macy and Patsy Rowe, Monticello; and brother, Larry Hunter, North Webster.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Nelson and Dixie (Dickson) Hunter; son, Nathan Wade Alber; brother, Nelson Dean Hunter Jr.; sister, Lynda McCloughan and former husband, Mark Alber.

A memorial service will take place at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26, at King Memorial Home, 101 N. Tucker St., Mentone, with Pastor Rod Utter officiating.

A private interment will take place at a later date in Reichter Cemetery, Talma.

Friends may visit from 5 p.m. until time of the service in the funeral home.

Memorial contributions maybe made to the animal shelter of the donor’s choosing.

Online condolence can be shared with the family at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.

Sharon A. Wendt

Sharon A. Wendt, 79, Rochester , died Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024, in Mishawaka. She was born on Sept. 7, 1945. On Oct. 30, 1965, she married Paul Wendt; who preceded her in death Jan. 31, 2014.

She is survived by son, Donald L. Wendt; daughter, Janora K. (Brian) Jacobs, both of Rochester; brother, Ronald (Gay-Ellen) Fisher, Charlotte, N.C.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Russell and Mabel Freeman Fisher; six brothers and sisters. Graveside services were Friday, Sept. 20, at Bowman White Post Cemetery, Francesville. Interment was in Bowman White Post Cemetery, Francesville. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Online condolences may be shared with the family at frainmortuary. com. Arrangements were entrusted to Frain Mortuary, Winamac.

Cynthia ‘Cindy’ Lou Hartzler

Cynthia “Cindy” Lou Hartzler, 65, Greentown , formerly of Wabash and Akron, died at 2:42 p.m. Sunday, April 21, at Community Howard Kokomo Hospital.

She was born on April 19, 1959.

She is survived by her daughter, Amanda E. (Alex) Powell; two grandchildren; grandpup, Evie; brother, Jerry (Deb) Hartzler; sister, Angie (Matt) Gast, both of Akron; and several nieces, nephews, close cousins and extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jerome and Annetta (Flook) Hartzler; and brother Todd “Harley” Hartzler.

A celebration of life service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 29, at Whitetail Woods Event Center, 886 N. Eel River Cemetery Road, Peru.

Visitation will follow the service until 5 p.m.

The family requests friends and family provide a written memory that will be shared during the service.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Hartzler Funeral Home, 305 W. Rochester St., Akron.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.

Brenda Sue Craig

Brenda Sue Craig, 76, Winamac, died Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024, at IU Health Arnett Hospital, Lafayette.

She was born on Jan. 1, 1948. She married Brent W. “Bill” Craig; who preceded her in death in 2003.

She is survived by her son, Blake W. (Jill) Craig, Wakefield, Neb.; daughter, Brooke S. (Samuel) Perez, Delphi; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; three stepchildren; six stepgrandchildren; several stepgreat-grandchildren; four sisters, Shirley (Joe) Decker, Alice Creasy and Patricia “Sandy” Terry, all of Winamac and Carolyn (Stan) Johnson, Talma; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl E. and Wanda B. (Cross) White; infant twin brother, baby White; and brother-in-law, Bob Creasy. Funeral services were at 2 p.m. Monday, Sept. 23, at Frain Mortuary, Winamac, with Pastor Jill Craig officiating. Interment was in Mt. Zion-Franklin Township Cemetery, Winamac. Memorial contributions may be made to Winamac Town Park. Online condolences may be shared with the family at frainmortuary.com.

Arrangements were entrusted to Frain Mortuary, Winamac.

Debra L. Hunter

Debra L. Hunter, 70, died Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024. On Oct. 23, 1981, she married Mark Hunter; who survives; Additional survivors are two children, Shane (Abigail) Hunter and Heather Hunter; and four grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Gordon and Louise Hackworth; father and mother-in-law, Charles and Lois Hunter; grandparents; and several friends and family members.

Funeral services were at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24, at King Memorial Home, 101 N. Tucker St., Mentone. Interment was held in Mentone Cemetery, Mentone.

In lieu of flowers, it is requested that donations be made to Cross Current Church, Port Huron, Mich., you can text the amount to give to 84321.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.

James D. Fritz

James D. Fritz, 90, Winamac, died at 1:30 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 15, 2024, at Hickory Creek, Winamac.

He was born on May 6, 1934. On July 18, 1959, he married Darlene Nice; who survives.

Additional survivors are his children, Pamela (Mike) Richard, Quincy, Ill., Donald (Stacie) Fritz, Star City, Thomas (Lynn) Fritz, Nashville and Richard (Shantell) Fritz, Mulberry; brother, Ralph (Charlene) Fritz, Winamac; 11 grandchildren; and 15 great- grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Burley and Lydia (Sparks) Fitz; and great- grandson, Owen Abbot.

A private family celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Kewanna Church of Christ Missions.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at ransfuneralhomes. com.

Charles ‘Chuck’ William Hutchison

Charles “Chuck” William Hutchison, 60, Eugene, Ore., died Friday, Aug. 23, 2024.

ron, $899.91

Mariner Finance, LLC v. Leah Hinderlider, Kewanna, $3,106.82

Barclays Bank Delaware v. Rene Roby, Culver, $2,076.09

Traffic Violations

The following fines and levies were paid in Fulton County courts: Disregarding stop sign — Spenser Wallace, Kewanna, $164.50 Driving while suspended, speeding — Andrew Pitman, Indianapolis, $179.50

Failure to signal turn, speeding — Katie Miller, Rochester, $192.50 Speeding — Meltonious Shorter, Louisville, Ky., $175; Kent Gibson, Indianapolis, $192.50; Alaiya Turner, Indianapolis, $175; Kendra Spears, South Bend, $154.50; Tyler Koppernagel, Elkhart, $154.50; Joshua Ratliff, Fortville, $175; Carol Black, Goshen, $154.50; Sharlessa Wingo, Kokomo, $154.50; Claire Graham, South Bend, $192.50; Gordon Lindsay, Berrien Springs, $164.50;

Jerri Ross, Plymouth, $154.50; William Lockhart, Indianapolis, $175; Mary Lash, Indianapolis, $154.50; Reid Keisling, Greentown, $154.50; Dimas, Galicia, Wyoming, Mich., $164.50; Caden Ruter, Muskegon, Mich., $154.50; Ayla Vandergriff, Kokomo, $192.50; Jose Botella, South Bend, $164.50; Albeir Abou-elias, Indianapolis, $154.50

No valid driver’s license, operating with expired plates — Tak Loi, Caledonia, Mich., $189

He was born on Aug. 4, 1964. He married Bianka Hutchison; who survives. Additional survivors are his daughter, Lesslie; stepdaughter, Batina; four grandchildren; father, Cotus Hutchison, Rochester; sister, Pam Clay, Rochester; two brothers, Timothy (Kimmy) Hutchison, Valparaiso and Stephen Hutchison, Tennessee.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Judith

Hutchison; and three brothers, Cotus (Coty) E., David (Dave) W. and Shaun Ryan Hutchison. No funeral arrangements are planned.

VIOLET M. GAGNON

JASON L. REED

(Judy)

BRENDA SUE CRAIG

KAY M. ALBER EILER

JAMES D. FRITZ

CYNTHIA ‘CINDY’ LOU HARTZLER

DEBRA L. HUNTER

CHARLES ‘CHUCK’ WILLIAM HUTCHISON

SHARON A. WENDT

Russell G. Antrim

Russell G. also known as “Rusty” and “Rooster,” Antrim, 68, Bass Lake, formerly of Winamac, died at 5:08 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024, at I.U. Hospital, Indianapolis. He was born on March 8,1956.

RUSSELL G. ANTRIM

On March 29, 1976, he married Chris Dommer; who survives.

Additional survivors two sons, Henry D. (Krystal) Antrim, Valparaiso and Russell D. (Kassie) Antrim, Royal Center; two brothers, Jeff (Pam) Antrim, Kentland and Kevin (Kim) Antrim, Rochester; sister, Sheila Wilson, Warsaw; two sisters-in law, Connie Haschel and Cheryl Fox; brother-in-law, Curt Dommer; and fourteen grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Russell D. Antrim and Donna Leach Antrim; brother, Johnny Antrim; three brothers-in-law, Fred Wilson, Rick Haschel, and Jim Fox; and sister-in-law, Mary Antrim.

A celebration of life service will be held at a later date.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at ransfuneralhomes. com.

Joseph David Maitland

Joseph David Maitland, 53, Rochester, died at 3:39 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20, 2024, at Woodlawn Health.

He was born at July 4, 1971. He married Wenonah Maitland; who survives.

Additional survivors are two sons, Nathan (Erin) Davis, Rochester and Tyler James Maitland and fiancee Brianna Kidd, Akron; daughter, Abbey Jo Maitland, Rochester; three grandchildren; brother, Tony Maitland, Indianapolis; mother, Sheila M. Radloff, Hamlet; father, Walter J Maitland, Tuscon, Ariz.; and his two fur babies, Mason and Grace.

A celebration of life service will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26, at Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 W. 18th St. Rochester, IN 46975.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at goodfamilyfh.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Good Family Funeral Home, Rochester.

Timothy R. Mikel

Timothy R. Mikel, 72, Mentone, died at 8:24 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne.

TIMOTHY R. MIKEL

He was born on Nov. 29, 1951. He married Noma Ruth Bays, who preceded him in death on July 13, 2007. On May 31, 2008, he married Vicki Horn Romine; who survives.

Additional survivors are his children, Melissa Mikel, Fort Wayne, Jerry (Tabitha) Mikel, Akron, Sarah (Jason) Christena and Emily (Brian) White, both of Fishers; nine grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; five brothers, Steve (Nancy) Mikel, Michigan, Tom (Deb) Mikel, Bourbon, Dave (Lois) Mikel, Joe (Marsha) Mikel, and Seth (Julie) Mikel, all of Etna Green.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Arissa May (Hodges) Mikel; brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Pat Mikel

Funeral services will be at noon, Thursday, Sept. 26, at King Memorial Home, 101 N. Tucker St., Mentone, with Pastor Mark MacKillop officiating.

Friends may visit two hours prior to services in the funeral home.

A private interment will be in Mentone Cemetery, Mentone.

Memorial contributions may be made to Safe Harbor Church, P.O. BOX 42, Rochester, IN 46975 or to Sweet Sassy Golf Classic for Bib’s Billfold.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.

Richard Weller

William L. Huffman

William L. “Bill” Huffman, 81, Winamac, died Friday, Sept. 20, 2024, at IU Health Arnett Hospital, Lafayette. He was born on April 21, 1943. On Sept. 13, 1964, he married Joyce F. Coogle; who survives.

WILLIAM ‘BILL’ HUFFMAN

Additional survivors are son, Kevin W. (Kara) Huffman, Versailles, Ky.; three daughters, Sheila F. Lamb, Avon, Janet L. (Chad) Inman, Noblesville and Tina M. Huffman, Monticello; nine grandchildren; one great-grandchild; two sisters, Marilyn L. (Lee) Kizlik and Carolyn M. Shivley; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James F. and Malinda M. (Zarse) Huffman; infant son, Jeffrey D. Huffman; grandson, Austin M. Huffman; and brother, Donald J. Huffman.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27, at Frain Mortuary, Winamac, with Celebrant Ashley Young officiating.

Friends may visit two hours prior to services in the funeral home.

Interment will be in Paul’s Chapel Cemetery, Winamac.

The American Legion and VFW will conduct military graveside services.

Memorial contributions may be made to Gideon’s International.

Virginia Ruth Johnston

Talma Bible Church Member

Virginia Ruth Johnston, 73, Rochester, passed away peacefully into the loving arms of our Savior and Lord, surrounded by her family at 10:54 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20, 2024, at her residence.

She was born on April 25, 1951, in Rochester, the daughter of Gene and Mary Edna (Cochran) Shriver. On July 19, 1987, in Mentone, she married Everett Johnston and he survives.

Virginia had worked at numerous establishments during her life, including 17 years with Kralis Brothers, Life Care Center of Rochester, Winn’s in Akron, Robertson’s Transformers, Marshall Electric and Pak-A-Sak. She had been a member of the Talma Bible Church and enjoyed fishing, cooking, tending to her house and, most of all, spending time with her family and grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband, Everett Johnston, Rochester; children, Warren “Pete” Ousley, Rochester, and Bennie (Patricia) Ousley, Macy; grandchildren, Amanda Ousley and fiance’ Will Smith, Ashley Ousley and fiance’ Eric Thomas, Jon Ousley, Josh Ousley and fiance’ Raven Loubert, Aydin R. Ousley and Blake (Amanda) Belpedio; great-grandchildren, Mathis Smith and Thea Smith; sisters, Mary Shriver, Rochester, and Nancy Kok, Battle Creek, Mich.; niece, Samantha (Zac) Lemaire, Battle Creek, Mich.; and nephew, Jason Kok, Battle Creek, Mich.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sons, Jesse James Ousley and Daniel Joseph Ousley; and daughter-in-law, Melissa Ousley Belpedio.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26, at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester. Friends may visit from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Sycamore Memorial Park Cemetery, Mentone. Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh. com.

Martin Torgerson

Joseph Kevin Holmes

Richard “Rick” Weller, 76, LaPorte, and formerly of Kewanna, died at 7 p.m. Wednesday Sept. 18, 2024, in his residence.

He was born on May 10, 1948. He married Belinda Weller; who survives. Additional survivors are two children, Richard Chad (Debra) Weller, Rolling Prairie and Megan (Kenneth) Gimlin, California; four siblings, Donald Weller, Cora Lynn Weller, Randy Neidig and Angela Scott; four grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond Weller and Barbara Carr.

Private services will be held in Citizens I.O.O.F Cemetery at a later date. Online condolences can be shared with the family at ransfuneralhomes. com.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at frainmortuary.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary, Winamac.

Marshall Anthony Woods

Marshall Anthony Woods, 63, Mentone, died at 11:57 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024, at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne.

He was born on Jan. 22, 1961.

He is survived by his mother, Carmalou Henderson, Mentone; aunt, Linda Woods, Huntingburg; and one cousin.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, William H. and Carmen L. (Skelton) Woods Sr.; and uncle, William H. Woods Jr.

No services will be held at this time.

Arrangements have been entrusted to King Memorial Home, 101 N. Tucker St., Mentone.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.

Martin “Torg” Torgerson, 86, formerly of Winamac , died Friday, Sept. 20, 2024, in Banner Elk, N.C.

He was born on March 11, 1938. On May 29, 1965, he married Carol Sue Russell; who survives. Additional survivors are his daughter, Anne Torgerson, Los Angeles; son, William (Megan) Banner Elk, N.C.; and sister, Katherine Fritz, Clearwater, Fla.; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Lucile Torgerson; four brothers, Tom, David, Andrew and Jason; and sister, Nancy Matthews.

Private services were held.

Interment was in Winamac Cemetery (McKinley Addition) Winamac.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

Online condolences can be sent to TorgerC@yahoo.com or mailed to Carol Russell, 165 Leighway Lane, Banner Elk, N.C. 28604.

Arrangements were entrusted to Frain Mortuary, Winamac.

Joseph Kevin Holmes, 72, Winamac , died Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024. He was born on Jan. 15, 1952. He married Marcia Holmes; who survives.

Additional survivors are his sister, Pamela (Pat) Patrick; brother-in-law, Randy (Cindy) King; his children, Jeanne (Nick) Foster, Kyle Wilson, Jennifer (Brian) Chance and Joni (Ivan) Balicky; 15 grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bert and Rosemary Holmes, brother and sister-in-law, Ronnie and Silva Holmes; father and mother-inlaw, Edsel and Nell King; and brother-in-law, Jeffrey King.

A celebration of life service will be held at noon, Saturday, Sept. 28, at Winamac Nazarene Church, Winamac, with Rev. Paul Commons officiating.

Friends may visit two hours prior to services in the church.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Palmer Funeral Home- Guisinger Chapel.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at palmerfuneralhomes.com.

VIRGINIA RUTH JOHNSTON

JOSEPH D. MAITLAND

JOSEPH KEVIN HOLMES

MARTIN ‘TORG’ TORGERSON

VARSITY FOOTBALL TIPPECANOE VALLEY 2024

2024 VARSITY VALLEY FOOTBALL

12 5’10 154 FL/LB

AULT 11 6’1 191 TE/DL

HUNTER STAGE 10 5’11 164 QB/S

17 BRYLAN ALDERFER 9 5’6 153 QB/LB

19 WYATT CRAIG 10 5’9 140 OL/DT

21 BRIXEN BLACKBURN 9 5’11 165 WR/CB

22 HUDSON SHEPHERD 11 6’0 180 WR/CB

23 KODIAK HILLEN 10 5’4 114 WR/DB

25 NOLAN WHITAKER 9 5’9 118 WR/CB

26 COLTON CRABB 12 6’2 175 TE/LB

30 GRADY MORIARTY 11 5’11 211 FB/LB

31 DIEGO GONSALEZ 11 5’8 182 RB/LB

34 TYRAN KISER 9 6’0 190 FB/LB

35 MATTHEW OWENS 12 6’2 157 TE/LB

38 WYATT BRADLEY 9 5’11 175 FB/DE

40 LOGAN KEENEY 9 6’1 180 TE/DE

43 BROCK DERF 12 6’0 214 FB/LB

44 CRUZ NUNEZ 11 5’9 175 OL/LB

50 ELI PERRY 9 6’1 170 OL/DL

AMERICAN LEGION POST #36 611 Main Street, Rochester 574-223-2617

76

88 ZANDER IOANNOU

HEAD COACH: STEVE MORIARTY

ASSISTANT COACHES: CASEY WISE, KYLE BROWN, JOSH DERF, CARL WEAVER, BRANDON WEBSTER, CAM PARKER, MARK MILLER

EQUIP. MANAGERS: JOE SECRIST, JOE TACKETT MANAGERS: MAX WEAVER, MARISOL GONZALEZ, TATUM SHOEMAKER, CAROLANN WALLACE

ATHLETIC TRAINER: JEN BACKUS

STRENGTH & CONDITIONING COACH: BRANDON WEBSTER

Updates and happenings around the area

The annual FFA pork chop dinner, hosted by the Rochester FFA, will be held from 5 p.m. until the start of the football game on Friday, Sept. 27. It will be held at the practice football field, located under the big white tents. Dine-in or carry-out available. Cost is $15 for a pork chop or chicken meal. Get tickets from any FFA member or at the main office. For more information, contact Rochester High School.

—o—

An all-you-can eat breakfast benefit will be from 7 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 28, at the Fulton County Museum, 37 E. CR 375, Rochester. It will benefit Josh Jaeger’s medical expenses. There will be sausage, scrambled eggs, pancakes, sausage gravy and biscuits, fruit salad, coffee and juice. The cost is $12.

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Rochester Fire Department, 2006 E. SR 14, Rochester, will host an open house from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28. See and touch the firetrucks, meet the local firemen,

learn about fire prevention and prepare for fire prevention month. Special guests include: Parkview EMS, Lutheran EMS, Parkview Samaritan, Rochester Police Department, Fulton County Sheriff’s Office and Fulton County EMA.

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The Youth Outlet Center will host a bingo fundraiser from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 28, at the Times Theater, Rochester. 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, 622 Main St., Rochester, will show “Red Revolution: The Taylor Swift Experience” at 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 29. Cost: $20 general admission; live music at 4 p.m. and doors open at 2 p.m.

Akron Public Library LEGO Club will resume from 4-5 p.m. Monday, Sept. 30. Elementary kids can join and explore creativity with snap circuits, creatively stretching their imaginations with LEGO play, adventure and friends.

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Kewanna Public Library, 210 E. Main St., will have a board meeting at 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 30, in the library.

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Tree board meeting will be at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 2, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.

—o—

Author talk with Donna Frisinger will be from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 3, in meeting room

B. Join as Frisinger reads excerpts from her newly-published book, “One Chance One Dance.” She will be available for book signings. New copies of her book will be available.

—o—

St. John’s Lutheran Church will host the fall fish and tenderloin fry from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 3, at the Fulton County Historical Society Museum, located at CR 375 North (off of U.S. 31). Rochester. Dine in or drive thru. All dinners include coleslaw, chips and a cookie. Tickets are $13. Call (574) 2236898 for tickets or pay at the door. Cash or credit card. Fish prepared by Dan’s Fish Fry.

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Board of public works and safety meeting will be from 7:30-8:30 a.m. Friday, Oct 4, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320

Main St., Rochester.

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A free community event to raise awareness for recovery in Fulton County will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, at Fansler Softball Diamond, 1307 Washington St., Rochester. There will be a cookout, face painting, snow cones, popcorn, mushball and more.

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Nyona/South Mud Lake Holiday Bazaar will be from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, at 2999 N. Knoll Drive, Macy. Silent auction, bake sale and food tent will be available. For more information, email nsmlbooster@gmail.com.

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A water board meeting will be held at 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 7, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.

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A commissioners’ meeting will be held at 9 a.m. Monday, Oct. 7, in the commissioners’ room, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.

—o—

Families Helping Families, a nonprofit organization, is in need

of formula and diapers for the community. If interested in donating or in need of formula and/or diapers, stop by from 2-5 p.m. Mondays, at Solid Rock Church, 913 Main St., Rochester. For more information, call Michelle Skiles (574) 835-8813.

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Retired and Senior Volunteer Program offers several opportunities to serve in Fulton County for anyone 55 or better. Volunteer and learn a new skill or utilize your current skills. It’s free and easy to join. Have fun and make new friends. Contact Angie King with any questions, (574) 223-3716.

—o—

Recovery Cafe Fulton County offers a safe, compassionate, non-judgemental space for anyone struggling with addiction, trauma, homelessness and mental health challenges. It offers weekly recovery circles, community resources, fun activities, social events, free meals, and lifeskills. For more information, call (574) 223-2233, visit the website at recoverycafefultoncounty.org, or its Facebook page, fb.com/recoverycafefultoncounty.

September programs at Kewanna Union Township Public Library

Homeschoolers

At The Library

7th & Madison St. Downtown Rochester, IN October 12, 2024 9:45 am OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM

Chili Cook-Off and Red Hot Car Show 5K Run/Walk

Please thank our corporate sponsors: First Federal Savings Bank, Jarrety’s Place, Shepherd’s Chevrolet GMC of Rochester, Mike’s Trash, RTC, RapidView, Smith, Sawyer and Smith, Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home Course: 5K out and back flat course encompassing the pathways around the Round Barn Golf Course and Woodlawn Hospital

Registration: Adults $25 Children under 18 $12 If registered by 10/10/2024: Adults - $20. Children under 18 - $10

Run/Walk Divisions: Men/Women Age Groups 8 years and under, 9-10, 11-12, 13-15, 16-18, 19-25, 26-35, 36-45, 46-55, 56-65, 66 and over

Awards: Four Divisions – Male Run, Male Walk, Female Run, Female Walk Trophies for 1st, 2nd, 3rd place finishers in each division Medals for age group winners

Door Prizes: All participants are eligible for door prizes including a 65” Flat Panel TV. Race shirts available while supplies last.

Please return form to: Rochester Rotary Club 1101 Jefferson St. Rochester, IN 46975 or by 9:35 am Saturday, October, 12 2024 at race site. All checks may be made payable to Rochester Rotary Club.

Last Name_______________________________ First Name ____________________________________

Address ______________________________________________________________________________

City ________________________________ State ____________________ Zip _____________________

Phone & Email _________________________________________________________________________

Date of Birth ___________________ Age __________

Check one _________ 5K Run ________ 5K Walk

Amount Paid $___________________ please make checks payable to Rochester Rotary Club

Waiver and Release

T-Shirt Size (circle one) S M L XL XXL YouthS Youth M YouthL

As a participant in the Chili Cook-Off and Red Hot Car Show 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, October 12, 2024, I verify that I have read, understand and accept the terms of this waiver and reliease. My submission of this form shall act as my legal signature. I understand the nature of this event and the risks involved in participating in this event. I know that running and walking a trail race is a potentially hazardous activity. I understand that I shold not participate unless I am medically able and sufficiently trained to do so. I agree to abide by any decisions of any race official concerning my ability to

in consideration of, my participation in this race, I, for myself, my heirs, executors, administrators, or anyone else who might claim on my behalf, waive, release, covenant not to sue and fully indemnify and hold harmless and discharge the Rochester Rotary International, race participants, race officials, workers, volunteers, and any and all officers, directors, employees, and other representatives of the foregoing, and any successors or assigns of the foregoing, and hold and waive them harmless from and against ANY AND ALL actions, claims, injuries, demands, liabilities, loss, damage, or expense, including but not limited to death, personal injury, and property damage, whether foreseen or unforeseen, arising out of, or in the course of, my participation in this event. I have read the above Waiver & Release, and by submitting this entry form, I understand and agree with all the terms of the waiver statement.

The Kewanna Union Township Public Library is offering the following programs in October. The library is located at 210 E. Main St., Kewanna. For more information and updates, check out its Facebook page, call (574) 653-2011, or visit kewanna.lib. in.us.

Alzheimer’s Awareness

Alzheimer’s awareness will be presented at 11 a.m Wednesday, Oct. 2, by an educator from the Alzheimer’s organization.

Memory loss that disrupts daily life may be a symptom of Alzheimer’s or other dementia. Alzheimer’s is a brain disease that causes a slow decline in memory, thinking and reasoning skills. Join this informative program to learn more about this debilitating disease.

Pumpkin Painting

Pumpkin painting will be from 4-5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 10. All supplies are furnished; everyone is welcome. Pumpkins were donated by the Rochester Optimist Club.

Homeschoolers at the Library program is here and it’s all about science. Learn about popcorn at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 16. A funfilled program, all homeschoolers are welcome to attend.

Adult Fall Craft Night

Adult Fall Craft Night will be at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17. Make a fall decoration for your home. Everything will be furnished. Bring a friend for a fun evening of being creative.

Estate and Will Planning Presentation

An estate and will planning presentation will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 23. Winamac attorney, Tim Murray, will be sharing his expertise in explaining fundamental estate planning concepts. Frequently asked questions and common misconceptions regarding wills and trusts, asset protection, and estate taxes will be covered. Anyone interested is welcome to attend.

Continued on page 9

Frisinger to have author talk on her newest book Oct. 3

By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer

People are welcome to hear Rochester author, Donna Frisinger, speak on her latest book “One Chance ... One Dance: Don’t Miss the Moments of Your Life” on Thursday, Oct. 3.

Frisinger will do a presentation at 5:30 p.m. that day in Meeting Room B of the Fulton County Public Library’s Rochester branch.

“One Chance ... One Dance” is her sixth book, but her first for adults. It came out Sept. 19.

It’s “light reading to inspire the soul,” Frisinger said of the anthology book.

It contains nonfiction short stories by her and 10 other authors “meant to be an encouragement to people to not miss life if they’re living it,” she said.

The stories are either on opportunities taken or those missed. Aside from Frisinger’s husband, Barry, all of the writ-

ers featured are female, with “One Chance ... One Dance” aimed at women 18 and older.

Donna said examples from her own life story are in the book.

“Many of them started from my hurt, and I think that’s a good place to write from is your hurt,” she said of things she’s written. “I can see how all those hurts God took and flipped them for his kingdom’s sake and for my good to be a blessing to other people because life is full of hurt.”

She noted she once heard the saying, “Don’t waste your pain.”

“Because in sharing ... pain, you’re going to bless other people who have gone through or going through the same thing that you went through,” she explained.

The stories are bookmarked by a quote and a Scripture passage. Donna’s poetry is also interspersed in the book.

She said the stories ask readers “to live to the fullest this

wonderful life that God gave us.”

“Even through the tears, we can feel his hug in life you know, and so that’s why I wrote it ... to not put things off that you are dreaming of doing some day and tell the people you love that you love them often,” said Donna.

“To me, it’s Jesus extending his hand to you every day to dance with him and are you going to ignore him and just go on with what you’re doing or are you going to take that moment to step on the dance floor with him or let him love on you?” she said of the message of “One Chance ... One Dance.”

People may buy the book from Amazon or a version with an embossed cover from Mustard Seed Mercantile and Webb’s Family Pharmacy, Rochester, or directly from the publisher, Abundance Books, at abundance-books.com.

She is also working on a similar book with Christmas stories set to come out next year and a couple of children’s stories.

Women in Business breakfast Nov. 1

The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce invites all interested women to a Women in Business breakfast at the Fulton County Museum at 7:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 1. After a brief networking breakfast, sponsored by Woodlawn

Continued from page 8

Monster Bash

Halloween Party

Teens and Tweens Club will be hosting a Monster Bash Halloween Party from 4-5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 24. It is open to all ages; everyone is welcome. There will be Halloween-themed games, treats, music and a costume contest. Come dressed to spook.

Back to the Past

Local historian, Bob Clyde, will continue his discussion of the history of Kewanna. “Back to the Past: Our Kewanna” will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30. “Back to the Past” is the last Wednesday of the month.

Health, panelists Jessica Riffle of Purdue Extension, Kelly McCall of Elevate Studio and Lisa Willis-Gidley of 4C Health will lead attendees through a practical guide to forming and maintaining healthy habits in the workplace.

CATCH Kids Club

CATCH Kids Club will be at 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 31. Lori Stiffler, Purdue Extension Fulton County Educator, will be presenting this program teaching healthy habits and nutrition.

CATCH stands for Coordinated Approach to Child Health. Stiffler will share fun ways to

Fulton County women may register with Kellie Scobie at (574) 224-2666 or kellie@fultoncountychamber.com, or at fultoncountychamber.com by Monday, Oct. 28. Any questions may be directed to Scobie.

NEW BOOK

Rochester author, Donna Frisinger, holds her newest book “One Chance ... One Dance: Don’t Miss the Moments of Your Life.” It came out Sept. 19. Photo by Leah Sander.

learn about healthy eating and the importance of physical activity.

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.”

— Indiana State Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie and Auxiliary presented a check for $239,559.79 for domestic violence awareness and prevention. With additional grant monies, the total grew to $267,559. Supplies, such as toiletries, food, and disposable items, were collected in 2023 and delivered to the facilities chosen.

In addition to these items, “Operation Teddy Bear” was held. This operation provides stuffed animals to children who are removed from a home in which they are not allowed to take personal items with them.

Shown from left are Linda Hudson, Billy Birge, Belinda Young, David Slaven and Mike Lyons.

Photo provided by Mike Lyons.

Fulton County Library to host ‘One State/One Story’ community read events

The Fulton County Public Library’s Rochester branch will have several events connect ed to the Indiana Humanities and the Indiana Center for the Book’s One “State/One Story”

The chosen book is “All That She Carried: The Journey of Ashley’s Sack, A Black Family

Free copies of “All That She Carried” are available at the Rochester branch, 320 W. Sev enth St., where four commu nity events exploring the book will take place in October and November, including a book dis

“All That She Carried” is a

termath in the United States. “One State/One Story” events

environment to write about the experience of slavery and its af-

will be given a box they can paint, decorate and personalize. They can then put items, such as handwritten letters, person al mementos, family heirlooms, photos, inside.

A book discussion will be held from 1-2:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19, in Meeting Room B, led by FCPL Literacy Director David Hazledine.

At 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, in Meeting Room B, guest speak er Dr. Tony Jean Dickerson will present “Black Quilters: Hard Topics, Soft Blows,” about how quilts have a place in telling the struggles and triumphs of many cultures. Dickerson is a quilter and the founding president of the Akoma Ntoso Modern Quilt Guild of Central Indiana.

Room B, led by FCPL Market ing/Makerspace Director Eri ca Coffing and Teen Services’ Kelsey Foreman. Participants

At 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16, in the Indiana Room, FCPL Direc tor Andrea Stineback and Adult Services Librarian Brittany Voorhees will host an event in which participants can bring a family heirloom to share, dis cussing the object’s history and importance. This event will in clude an introduction to FCPL’s digital genealogy resources.

For more information, contact the Rochester branch at (574) 223-2713 or visit fulco.lib.in.us.

Effective October 1, 2024, the Federal Universal Service Charge (FUSC) on your bill will increase as a result of an increase in the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) universal service fund contribution factor from 34.4% to 35.8%. The FUSC is calculated in accordance with FCC rules by applying the new contribution factor of 35.8% (0.358) to the charges for interstate services. The federal universal service fund helps to ensure access to affordable communications services in hard-to-serve rural areas of the United States. If you have any questions regarding the FUSC, please contact the FCC at 1-888-225-5322 or

fccinfo@fcc.gov.

universal service fund contribution factor from 34.4% to 35.8%. The FUSC is calculated in accordance with FCC rules by applying the new contribution factor of 35.8% (0.358) to the charges for interstate services. The federal universal service fund helps to ensure access to affordable communications services in hard-to-serve rural areas of the United States. If you have any questions

Open house for Valley high school addition, renovations is Oct. 27

By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer

The public may get a close-up look at Tippecanoe Valley High School’s addition and renovations on Sunday, Oct. 27. That was announced at the Tippecanoe Valley School Board’s regular meeting on Monday, Sept. 16, at Mentone Elementary School.

The open house will be from 2-4 p.m., and everyone is welcome to come.

Ground was broken in spring 2023 for the project, which includes a renovation of the pool area and new seating, a new auditorium, new agriculture area, and new locker rooms, among other things.

Bib’s Billfold

At the meeting, the board also accepted a $27,500 donation from Stephanie Bibler.

Each year, the Scott “Bibs” Bibler Sweet Sassy Golf Classic occurs in memory of her husband, TVHS coach and teacher, Scott

Local schools receive state funding boost for safety upgrades

Fulton County schools received more than $73,000 for safety upgrades through the state’s Secured School Safety Grant Program supported by State Rep. Jack Jordan.

Jordan said the funding is part of the state’s biennial budget passed in 2023, which made significant investments in school safety.

In all, 499 schools across Indiana’s 92 counties received $24 million total in state matching grants.

“There are many layers to school security and each facility can present its own challenges,” Jordan said. “These state matching grant dollars help schools support a wide range of safety upgrades to meet their needs, and it’s great to see schools in our area take advantage of this opportunity.”

Area schools receiving grants included Caston School Corp., $36,450, and Rochester Community School Corp., $37,260.

Awarded funds can be used for a wide range of safety needs, like support for resource officers, equipment and technology, active event warning systems, threat assessments, and student and parent support services programs. Indiana has allocated $187 million for school safety matching grants since the program started in 2013.

To learn more about the Secured School Safety Grant Program and what Indiana’s doing to keep schools safe, visit the state’s school safety hub at in.gov/schoolsafety.

“Bibs” Bibler, who was killed in plane crash in 2015.

The money raised from the classic is then given to Valley to be used in Bib’s Billfold, with funds both paying for Valley teacher grants and for students in need.

Stephanie noted about $6,000 of the funds this year came from donations in memory of Mike Hoyt. The former Valley coach and teacher passed away in August. Hoyt’s widow, Diana, was present for the check presentation.

Stephanie also noted that more than $175,000 over the years has been raised to go into Bib’s Billfold.

Budget

Hearing

The board also had a hearing for the 2025 Tippecanoe Valley School Corp. budget.

No one from the public spoke during it. The board will vote on the budget at its next regular meeting at 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 14, held a week earlier than usual due to the corporation’s fall break.

The proposed budget of $29,121,579 breaks down to: $14,449,058 in the education fund, $4,333,000 in the debt service fund, and $10,339,521 in the operations fund.

People may also see a breakdown of the budget on Indiana Gateway by going to budgetnotices.in.gov/unit_lookup.aspx, selecting Kosciusko as the county and then scrolling down and selecting the Tippecanoe Valley School Corp.

In other business, the board:

• Heard from Adam Weesner with Barton-Coe-Vilamaa Architects and Engineers in Fort Wayne that a proposed new corporation administration building and day care facility has been redesigned to allow several lanes for

From

are golf

drop-off and pickup of children. The lanes are for safety reasons, moving traffic away from the general traffic of the TVHS parking lot. No final decisions have been made regarding construction of the building.

• Heard that the corporation received a $70,875 Indiana Department of Homeland Security Secured School Safety grant, which will be used to pay the salary of TVSC School Resource Officer and Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Depu-

ty Shaun Mudd. Approved the hiring of route bus driver Amy Lozano; Valley Early Learning Academy Lead Infant Instructor Jerrica Marshall; Tippecanoe Valley Middle School yearbook advisor Kelly Kerr; Ak-

ron Elementary School evening custodian Marilu Flores; and TVSC Network Administrator Deana Roe.

• Accepted the resignation of TVMS yearbook advisor April Stiles.

FOR STUDENTS AND STAFF At the Tippecanoe Valley School Board meeting on Monday, Sept. 16, the Tippecanoe Valley School Corp. received a $27,500 donation, raised in part from the Scott “Bibs” Bibler Sweet Sassy Golf Classic. Part of the money, about $6,000, came from donations in memory of late Valley teacher and coach, Mike Hoyt, who passed away in August.

left

classic committee member Sara Boganwright; TVSC Board President Adam Heckaman; Bibler’s widow, Stephanie Bibler; and Hoyt’s widow, Diana Hoyt. Photo by Leah Sander.

Students from seven counties experience history at Trail of Courage school event

Text and Photos

By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer

Students from at least seven counties experienced Indiana history outside Rochester Friday, Sept. 20.

At its museum grounds, the Fulton County Historical Society had its 25th school day event ahead of its 48th annual Trail of Courage, set for Saturday, Sept. 21 and Sunday, Sept. 22.

Home-schooled students and those from Bremen Elementary School, Emmons Elementary School, Lewis Cass Elementary School, Maconaquah Elementary School, Mentone Elementary School, North Miami Elementary School, Northwestern Elementary School, Riddle Elementary School, and Taylor Elementary School dipped candles, took canoe rides, played tug-of-war and experienced other aspects of settler and Native American life.

Riddle brought 126 fourth graders. Fourth grade teacher, Alana Adams, who is 28, noted the corporation’s been taking kids to the school event since she herself was in elementary school.

Her colleague, fourth grader special education teacher, Amy Freeman, said the event “is a nice local thing that ties in with (teaching Indiana history).”

She said she hoped students took away “hands-on experiences with what life was like (in the past).”

Adams said she desired for students to have “some real life visuals of the culture and that kind of

stuff that they don’t normally see throughout their day-to-day lives and that we can’t give them at school necessarily.”

Fellow fourth grade teacher, Lisa Brooks, said her students had been “studying Indiana history and the Native Americans that came through this area” to prepare them for the event.

“It’s great because all these vendors are interacting with the kids today, and so it’s not just walking by and seeing somebody dressed like a Native American or like a settler,” said Brooks.

Several Riddle students also shared what they learned. Gweth Tindi noted he’d learned about Native Americans and “their history, their culture, what tools they used and how they fought the settlers.”

His classmate, Liberty Fox, referenced she learned about weapons used in the past.

“When they ran out of bullets from their guns, they would use the ends and hit people,” she said.

Mentone had around 63 fifth graders come to the event.

One of them was Cooper Mellott.

“It was super hard (for the settlers) because they had to live in small houses,” he said of what he learned.

Mentone fifth grade teacher, Layne Early, said it was the first

time the school had come to the Trail of Courage.

“We study this time period from the 1700s up until the 1800s, and we (hope the) kids just get a better understanding (from this event of) the way that (people) dressed, the way that they did different things with the candle making and the rope making, the trading that went on, also the interactions between the English and the Native Americans,” he said. “We talked about that a lot too and how they interacted sometimes in a good way and sometimes not in a good way.”

FCHS Museum Director Melinda Clinger said several new schools were at the event this year.

“It’s always good to know that they are teaching (Indiana) history in schools,” she said, adding the event “teaches … stuff from the past that people don’t want to pay attention to.”

“With the crafters and the demonstrators that are doing this stuff, it’s keeping part of that alive,” said Clinger.

CABIN Riddle Elementary School fourth graders Jasmine Thiry, left, and Kensleigh Flower pose in front of a cabin.

CANDLE MAKING Riddle fourth grader Aleyna Ranstead dips her candle.

DIPPING CANDLES Making candles are Mentone Elementary School fifth graders from left Santiago Padilla, Cooper Mellott and Levi Adams.

HAT Riddle fourth grader Asher Hines tries on a hat.

TUG OF WAR Mentone Elementary School fifth graders Owyn Howard, left, and Tannon Lash play tugof-war.

Indiana officials say chronic absenteeism rates are improving, but there’s still more work ahead

By CASEY SMITH Indiana Capital Chronicle

Indiana’s top education officials applauded the state’s improved chronic absenteeism rates on Wednesday, Sept. 13, but conceded that too many Hoosier students are still missing a “significant” number of school days.

The latest attendance numbers released by the Indiana Department of Education reported that 17.8% of K-12 students — roughly 219,00 kids — were “chronically absent” during the most recent 2023-24 school year, meaning they missed at least 18 days.

It’s the second year in a row that the number of chronically absent students went down, dropping from 19.2% in 2023, and 21.1% in 2022.

“It’s an improvement — and we always want to celebrate improvements and data moving in the right direction— but we still have some work to do,” said John Keller, IDOE’s chief information officer, during Wednesday’s State Board of Education meeting.

Keller maintained that the reasons for absences vary, but “the interpretation of the ‘why’ is really going to have to be a locally determined thing.”

Educators around the state have pointed to family challenges some students face at home, along with hard-to-break tendencies to keep kids home when even mildly unwell — a habit borne out of the pandem-

ic — as key factors.

Schools are getting creative to try to combat the growing problem, like increasing communication with parents and incentivizing absence-prone students to come to class.

IDOE officials are also working on responses to improve school attendance, including development of a new “Attendance Insights” dashboard that breaks down weekly habitually truant and chronic absenteeism rates at the local and school levels. The state has already made the tool available to Hoosier school officials and plans to launch a public version later this month.

“It is statistically significant; students who are coming to school 94% of the time are doing better significantly,” said Indiana Secretary of Education Katie Jenner. “As a parent or a grandparent or whatever, that 94% or more really matters. Teachers could have told us this before we ran the data, right? But running the data, it’s very clear students need to be in the classroom in order to make the greatest performance.”

A Deeper Look Student absences have been on the rise since the onset of COVID in Indiana and across the nation. Chronic absenteeism surged during the pandemic, nearly doubling to peak at 21.1% in 2022, according to IDOE.

Keller said the latest data suggests Indiana has “turned the cor-

Morales: Indiana voter registration on the uptick

Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales announces that over 90% of eligible Hoosiers are registered to vote and that Indiana’s voter registration rate continues to grow leading to the Nov. 5 General Election.

More than 4.7 million Hoosiers are registered to vote. Sept. 17 was National Voter Registration Day. Morales invites all Hoosiers to visit IndianaVoters. com. Hoosiers may check or update their voter registration status or register to vote on the spot. Morales is calling for every eligible Hoosier to take action and register to vote. Hoosiers may check their registration status, update their information or register to vote for the first time at the IndianaVoters.com website. Hoosiers may also register to vote at their county clerk’s office.

Office staff will be registering eligible Hoosiers at multiple locations across the state through the registration deadline of Monday, Oct. 7.

“As chief election officer, I work tirelessly every day to encourage every eligible Hoosier to register to vote. With today being National Voter Registration Day, I want to remind Hoosiers to check and make sure they are registered. It’s especially exciting to see our younger generation getting involved in the election process. We are less than 50 days away from the General Election and now is the time to make sure you are registered,” said Morales earlier.

For more information on voter registration, visit IndianaVoters. com or contact the Indiana Secretary of State’s Office at sos.IN.gov.

Fulton County United Way to have Trivia Night Oct. 5

Fulton County United Way is hosting a Trivia Night fundraiser on Saturday, Oct. 5, at the Elks Lodge, 2506 Country Club Drive South, Rochester.

Doors open at 5:15 p.m., with trivia starting at 6 p.m.

Up to eight people may be on teams. The cost is $350 per table or $250 per table without food. A la carte food tickets are $15 each.

ner” and appears to be reversing from its high-absence period during the pandemic. He emphasized that all grades levels improved their chronic absenteeism rates in 202324 by one to 2% when compared to the year prior.

“These are not insignificant improvements,” Keller said. “But obviously, we have not returned to the pre-pandemic attendance.”

According to the 2023-24 data, 23.7% of students who receive free or reduced lunch were chronically absent — nearly 11% higher than their peers. English language learners were also slightly more likely to miss class; 18.5% of English learners were chronically absent during the last school year, compared to 17.7% of non-English language learners.

The Indiana Code specifically defines chronic absenteeism as being absent 18 or more days within a school year for any reason — a higher standard than “habitual truancy,” which is 10 or more days without an excuse.

Under the “compulsory education” laws in Indiana, children must regularly attend school from the time they’re 7 years old until they turn 18, with some exceptions.

But unless they’re excused, students who cut class too often could end up under a juvenile court’s supervision. Built-up absences could also prompt prosecutors to file misdemeanor charges against Hoosier

parents, given that they are legally responsible for making sure their children go to school.

Keller took notice of “consistent, dramatic differences” in academic performance for students who are chronically absent versus those with better attendance.

“The data pretty much speaks for themselves. There are stark differences between the populations on all these measures,” he said, referring to “noticeably” lower scores on IREAD, ILEARN and the SAT among chronically absent students.

“No matter the quality of the interventions, it doesn’t matter so much if (students) are not in the room,” Keller continued.

IDOE officials further noted that students, who are chronically absent are significantly less likely to read by third grade, master key ELA and math skills, or be college-ready.

New Tools Going Live

At IDOE, Keller said state officials have “shifted” their focus from “just a school-focused look at attendance” to honing in on individual students.

Other ongoing analyses at the state level are digging into patterns of chronic absenteeism.

Data shows that in 2023-24, about half of the chronically absent students had been chronically absent in one of the last prior three years. “And half of them were new to the roster, if you will,”

Keller said.

The new “Attendance Insights” dashboard — meant to help state and local officials investigate data trends — went live for school officials Aug. 23. A public version will be available later this month or early in October.

The dashboard shows several years worth of week-by-week attendance data, including excused and unexcused absences, and rates of chronic absenteeism and habitual truancy, for individual schools. Because schools already report their attendance numbers to IDOE, Keller said the dashboard will show the most up-to-date data.

Filters additionally allow users to break data down by students’ race, ethnicity and socioeconomic and English learner statuses.

Board member, Pat Mapes, said the dashboard can help school and district administrators show parents “that difference between academic achievement and whether or not you’re at school.”

Also in the works is an “early warning system” that studies more than a decade of data patterns among students who graduated high school — and those who did not graduate — to identify possible behaviors of concern and risk factors for becoming chronically absent.

Currently, the 11 Hoosier school corporations are participating in a two-month pilot.

No outside food or drinks are permitted. There will also be a TV and sound bar raffle.

Registration must be done by Friday, Sept. 27. People may find a QR code to register on Fulton County United Way’s Facebook page or email fultoncouway@rtcol.com or call Jenny at (574) 223-8929 or Lauren at (574) 398-1091 to learn how to register.

617 Main Street, Rochester, IN 46975 Phone 574-223-5417, Fax 574-223-8330

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Furniture, Household Goods, Collectibles and Glassware: Howard Miller pendulum wall clock with key; small white cupboard; Longaberger baskets, pottery and collector mini-baskets; variety of Rae Dunn dishes, Nora Fleming dishes; Pampered Chef-new in the box; Singer portable sewing machine; sewing table, hi-intensity light and sewing accessories; ornate carved oak curio cabinet; willow angel collection, Waterford crystal bowls and flutes, Swedish crystal and numerous other pieces of cut glass; 3 complete sets of China; mid-century Heywood Wakefield chairs, dresser and unique corner desk and chair; 2 tall curio cabinets, modern electric couch with dual recliners; 1930’s sellers painted kitchen table with three chairs; pine dining room table with 2 leaves; large lit Christmas Village-some Dept. 56; large selection of scrapbook supplies; Halloween decorations, Hallmark Christmas ornaments; catering supplies-50 plus white tablecloths, chafing dishes, centerpieces, mirrors, and vases; kitchen bakeware; cookbooks; canning supplies-pressure canner, jars-some blue; children’s items-“Winnie the Pooh” décor, bedding; children’s books, Boyd’s bears, dolls, John Deere toy tractors; Vera Bradley bags; Vintage table lamps; Vintage fishing gear; small hand tools; shelving, 2 English saddles with rolling stand; small show pony harness. Other items too numerous to mention.

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Antiques, Furniture and Appliances: Bosch washer and dryer; two large couches, 4 shelf bookcase, several other small bookcases; two piece china cupboard; buffet, drop leaf dining table with three leaves and table pads-4 chairs; several accent chairs; tea cart; 4 ornate carved chairs, cherry linen dresser; several stuffed chairs, recliner, lamps, oak round kitchen table with 2 leaves; marble top plant stand; marble top coffee table, side tables, two paintings, other pictures; 4-post cherry bed, dresser and night stand (antique); modern tall and long dresser with mirror; aluminum glass-top lawn table with 4 chairs; microwave; card tables and aluminum folding table; metal desk and filing cabinet; large and small flatscreen TV.

Household Goods, Glassware, Crystal and Collectibles: Set of Johann Haviland China for 12; linens; everyday dishes; pots, pans and baking items; silverplate tea service; other silverplate; cut and pressed glassware, several sets of drinking glasses; ceramic Christmas tree; misc. smalls; quilt and afghans; fireplace tools; Niko Christmas dishes set of 8; metal room divider; KitchenAid mixer; Jazzy-motorized chair; bed linens; walker, canes; Power Air Fryer; flatware; 3 wooden stools, jelly cabinet; various antique deep dishes; vases and misc. decorator items.

Yard and Garden: Two ladders-8’ and 20’ extension; pull behind lawn cart; hand pulled lawn cart; egg baskets, wrenches and socket sets; old tricycle; 2 block and tackles; camper hitch.

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Hoosier Homes program now available in Fulton County

Fulton County took a significant step toward unlocking its housing market potential when Fulton County commissioners authorized the Hoosier Homes down payment assistance program several months ago. This initiative is designed to make home ownership more accessible for individuals and families across all income levels, thereby encouraging growth and stability

with the housing community. According to the recently completed housing study and the market potential analysis, Fulton County has the potential to attract up to 1,055 new households annually, provided there are enough affordable housing units and supportive home buyer programs available.

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Rochester fall sports update — Football pulls away in second half to beat Lewis Cass

Rochester senior football player, Clarence Garrett, said it, and teammate Trenton Meadows, repeated a few minutes later when describing how the Zebras were able to beat host Lewis Cass Friday: “We just wanted it more.”

With help from those two and Brant Beck’s 230 yards and three touchdowns rushing, the Zebras won 50-22.

Kale Shotts added two touchdown runs in the fourth quar-

ter. Meadows caught a touchdown pass from Carson Paulik and ran for the go-ahead score in the third quarter.

Rochester beat Lewis Cass for the second straight year.

Boys Soccer

The Rochester boys soccer team finished the week with a 6-1 home loss to Three Rivers Conference and sectional rival Maconaquah Saturday.

Rochester trailed 3-1 at halftime before Maconaquah scored

three goals in the second half; the game ended with a running clock.

Kolton Seaney scored on a penalty kick in the first half. Senior Julian Rosas stopped four shots for a shutout as the host Tippecanoe Valley boys soccer team edged sectional rival Rochester 1-0 Sept. 18.

Seaney came after Rochester’s Jonas Kiser was called for a foul inside the 18-yard box with 14:54 left in the first half.

Seaney drilled the penalty kick past Rochester goalkeeper Aiden Harrington.

VAL TSOUTSOURIS

Seaney’s penalty kick was one of only three shots Valley had on Harrington. The goal was just the fifth goal Valley has scored this season; it was their first in four games.

On Sept. 16, Junior Criollo scored off a Wyatt Davis assist in the first half, but the Rochester boys soccer team lost to visiting Peru.

The game was tied 1-1 after 80 minutes of regulation and two, seven-minute overtime periods. Peru outscored Rochester 4-2 to win.

Girls Soccer

The Rochester girls soccer team lost to Maconaquah 8-1 Saturday to fall to 1-5-3 overall and 0-2 in the Three Rivers Conference.

Skyla Mitchell scored on a penalty kick in the first half.

The visiting Lady Zs hung on to edge Taylor 1-0 and snap a 23game winless streak Sept. 16. Rochester had 13 shots on

goal and won despite having only 10 available players.

Boys Tennis Tanner Reinartz, Wade Bowers and Jack Reffett all won in singles; the doubles teams of Harrison Dunwoody and Brady Morgan at No. 1 and Carter Merideth and Ashton Musselman at No. 2 won in straight sets for the Zebras in a 5-0 win over Whitko Sept. 18. Rochester is 8-4 overall and 3-3 in the TRC.

On Sept. 16, Reinartz won in straight sets at No. 1 singles to stay unbeaten on the season. The No. 1 doubles team of Dunwoody and Morgan won in a third-set tiebreak. The boys tennis team lost 3-2 to Lewis Cass.

Girls Golf

Olivia Bailey earned medalist honors with a 37. The No. 17 Rochester girls golf team beat Tippecanoe Valley 163-192 in the final home match of Ava Thomas’ career over the back nine Sept. 17.

Lexi Haughs added a personal-best 41, Molly Moore had a 42, Thomas had a 43. Laynie Migonis had a 57 for the Lady Zs.

Savana Miller had a 39 for Valley, whose team score was a season low for nine holes.

Bailey shot a 3-over par 40 to earn medalist honors and lead the Rochester girls golf team to a win in a four-way match Sept. 16.

Rochester had a 166. Winamac had a 223.

Volleyball

Audrey Bolinger had 10 kills, a block, four points and an ace, but Rochester’s volleyball team lost to Northfield 25-13, 26-24, 25-8 Thursday.

Avarie Montel had four kills. Aubrey Wilson had five points, 15 assists and 10 digs. Logyn Honkomp had four points, including an ace.

Rochester dropped to 5-12 overall and 1-4 in the TRC.

The Manchester volleyball team continues to improve; host Rochester didn’t impede progress Sept. 16.

Rochester closed out the first set with a strong run, but Manchester relied on their junior core to claim a win.

The highlight for the Lady Zs might have been the final three points of Game 1. At 22-all, Ream was called for a net violation to end a long rally. Ream was called for a double hit after Wilson went to the seat of her pants to keep an attack from Renz off the floor. A Hunter kill with help from a misplayed attempted set from Ream closed the set.

The second set was tied 17all before Manchester went on a 7-2 run. A net violation on Bolinger ended the set.

Rochester led 6-3 in Game 3 and 7-4 in Game 4 before Manchester rallied both times.