are shown. The production is a modern retelling of “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.” Photo by Leah Sander.
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
Rochester High School Tri-Epsilon invites the public to experience a modern take on “Alice’s
Adventures in Wonderland.”
Students are presenting “Alice@Wonderland” at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22, and Saturday, Nov. 23, in the RHS Auditorium, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m.
Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and free for those age 4 and younger and may be purchased at the door or ahead of time at the school.
One of the play’s directors, Megan Allen, said the adaption by Jonathan Yukich of Lewis Carroll’s classic story was picked due to its “licensing company (allowing) us a bit more artistic freedom.”
“We have a script to follow, but we decide our blocking and what we would like the set to look like,” she said. “Some companies have very detailed plans of how the
and
show should be run.
“We also liked the modern twist with references to technology ... It adds a bit more humor,” she added.
Brenda McClain is helping direct the cast of 28, with eight serving on the crew and six on the tech crew. Continued on page 3
QUEEN AND MORE — The Queen of Hearts
other characters in Rochester High School Tri-Epsilon’s play “Alice@Wonderland” are shown. Photo by Leah Sander.
Daycare director opens home to children
By LAURIE LECHLITNER Staff Writer
“When I lived in Southern Indiana, I worked at a daycare center,” stated Linda Hopkins. “When I moved to Rochester, I was planning to be a stay-athome mom. But I found that people in the area needed a daycare center. So, I opened one in my home in 2000. That way I could stay at home with my own kids.
“We started out with just a few children but grew. In 2003 I was licensed, and we grew to 12 kids. We built a facility beside our home that eventually held 32 kids, ages 1 to 4 years old.”
Hopkins is the director/owner of The Rainbows End Daycare, Inc., Rochester.
“I’ve always loved watching children learn and grow. My favorite age group are 1-yearolds. Their personalities are just developing, and they are beginning to develop unique preferences. They learn so much before they are 2. We are a play-centered facility. But the children learn to share and socialize. We work with them on their colors, numbers, counting, and letters.”
A typical day for Hopkins starts in the morning when the first child is dropped off. “We fix them breakfast. Then we have particular play stations the children can visit. We have lunch and then it’s ‘Happy-Nappy’ time, when we fill out paperwork and do other things that need to be completed before the parents arrive. When the children wake up, we have the afternoon snack. The kids spend the rest of the afternoon outside, weather permitting, or playing inside until their parents pick them up. We close at 5 p.m.”
Kids and staff at the daycare center become their own little family. “If someone is missing, the kids know it. They grow to know each peer and their parents. If a staff member is missing, they’ll always ask where they are. We take care of one another and it’s a safe space. Each child knows that he/she is loved.”
That’s not to say that through the years Hopkins has not had her share of discipline problems. “That’s where the parents come in. We work together to solve disciplinary issues. We sometimes need to put a child
on time out, one minute for each year of age. We try our best to make our center a positive place for all the kids.”
Since Hopkins has been in business for over 24 years, she is now serving the children of some of the parents that attended her daycare center in the past. “It’s great to spot adults in the community who have been students in the past. Through our center, I’ve been able to connect with many people living in Rochester.”
With a smile, she remarked, “Most days we take care of the kids, but some days they take care of us. Because of a drunk driver, my husband Darrell got in a bad accident on his way to work in 2005. The friend riding with him was killed. When he walked into the daycare center the day after, one of the little girls sat in his lap with her ‘blankie’ to comfort him.”
Hopkins, the entrepreneur, travels to daycare conferences selling her chest to ankle bibs, BodyBib. “That’s my invention to keep kids clean and tidy.”
The Hopkinses have three grandkids and one on the way. “Being a grandma is my favorite pastime.”
Boys & Girls Clubs deliver remarkable academic gains
The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northern Indiana Corridor, or BGCNIC, announced the outcomes of its Summer Learning Labs program, which delivered remarkable academic gains for over 2,500 children across Northern Indiana.
In partnership with area school districts, the five-week Summer Learning Labs program provided free, grade level accelerated
instruction in English Language Arts and math for students entering grades 1-8.
Students participating in the program across St. Joseph, Cass, Pulaski, Fulton and White Counties demonstrated remarkable academic gains, including a 26-percentage point improvement in ELA proficiency, matching statewide results.
BGCNIC’s program also saw a
20-percentage point increase in math, closely following the state’s 24-percentage point improvement.
“These results are more than just numbers, they’re proof of how high quality summer learning can bridge achievement gaps and un-
FCCF launches Giving
Tuesday campaign
The Fulton County Community Foundation is launching their annual Giving Tuesday Campaign leading up to the Dec. 3 event. Thanks to a matching opportunity offered through Lilly Endowment, Inc., all gifts to community funds will be matched $2 for every $1 donated. That means a $100 gift would garner a $200 match and result in a total contribution of $300.
Additionally, thanks to local business RapidView, there is a $1 for $1 match opportunity up
to $10,000 for the Fulton County Animal Center and $20,000 for The Outlet Youth Center. Giving Tuesday is an international day of celebration for local and global nonprofits that work year round serving their communities.
This year’s event will be from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Foundation’s office, 227 E. Ninth St., Rochester. Lunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Learn more at nicf.org or call (574) 223-2227.
Early deadline
The Shopping Guide News will observe an early deadline for the issue of Nov. 27.
All news copy, display advertising and classified advertising must be in the Rochester or Milford office by 1 p.m. Friday,
Nov. 22.
All offices of The Papers will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 28 in observance of Thanksgiving. The office of The Shopping Guide News will be closed Friday, Nov. 29 and will reopen Monday,Dec. 2.
lock the incredible potential of our community’s kids,” said Jacqueline Kronk, Chief Executive Officer of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northern Indiana Corridor. “Our students not only gained critical skills in English Language Arts and math but also grew in confidence and resilience through this transformative program.”
The Summer Learning Labs were part of a broader statewide initiative by the Indiana Department of Education, which collectively served nearly 9,000 students across 19 locations. BGCNIC hired certified teachers to facilitate the curriculum and serve a diverse population of students in need of academic support.
“The success of our summer program speaks to the essential role that the Boys & Girls Clubs and similar out of school time providers play in supporting student achievement,” said Kronk.
“As public discussions continue around these important educational initiatives, we urge communities and policymakers to maintain their investment in programs that expand access to transformative learning opportunities for all young people.”
These results take on added significance in light of Indiana’s new legislation around early literacy. Senate Bill 369 mandates that all third graders who do not pass the IREAD assessment must receive additional support to achieve grade level proficiency before advancing.
The BGCNIC Summer Learning Labs program offers a proven solution to help students meet this critical benchmark by focusing on high quality academic enrichment in a supportive environment.
For additional information and enrollment details visit bgcnic.org.
LINDA HOPKINS AND BODY BIBBED GRANDDAUGHTER, KENNEDY KRACHINSKI
RHS Tri-Epsilon
Continued from page 1 ‘Alice@Wonderland’ Cast List
Among them is Molly Leslie, who’s playing Alice.
She’s been in several previous plays, including fall 2023’s “The Murder Mystery at the Murder Mystery.”
“It’s amazing,” Leslie said of having the starring role. “It’s a lot of responsibility, but I’m so excited that I get to do it and glad that the directors are willing to give me this chance.
“The show’s going to be awesome,” she added.
Allen said she hoped students gained “lifelong skills” from being involved with the play.
“Students learn to manage their time, be part of a team and problem solve, all while building bonds and memories with their peers,” she said. “Ultimately, we would like for our students to be proud and to have a sense of accomplishment.”
Allen said she wants people to enjoy “the entire show.”
“However, hopefully ‘Alice@ Wonderland’ provides nostalgia for some and fun and laughter for all,” she said.
Alice — Molly Leslie
White Rabbit — Sophie Beehler
Queen of Hearts — Alex Lockhart
Caterpillar — Frankie Wakeland
Frog-Newsie — Brooklyn Baine
Fish-Newsie — Jaylynn Zartman
Cheshire Cat 1 — Seanna Gudas
Cheshire Cat 2 — Karsyn Baker
Mad Hatter — Daniel Yocum
March Hare — Alex Porterfield
Dormouse — Cherokee Wallace
Tweedledum — Rylee Wallace
Tweedledee — Audrey Gard
Humpty Dumpty — Alayna Jones
King of Hearts — Kollin Williams
Door No. 1 — Charlotte Perry
Door No. 2 — Angel Hayes
Door No. 3 — Brody Simons
Tiny Door — Jesse Smith
Chorus Member No. 1 — Cerenity Meisner
Chorus Member No. 2 — Jesse Smith
Let’s Study The Bible —
Chorus Member No. 3 — Myrandace Metz
Chorus Member No. 4 — Aracely Aguilar
Lily — Aracely Aguilar
Rose — Abbygail Lowry
Daisy — Riley Vessels
Violet — Charlotte Perry
Queen’s Guard — David Smith
Queen’s Guard — Brody Simons
Queen’s Guard — Karlee Guzzo
Queen’s Guard — Jasmyn Zartman
Queen’s Guard — Korrina Slocum
Queen’s Guard — Angel Hayes
Queen’s Guard — Jesse Smith
Queen’s Guard — Myrandace Metz
‘Alice@Wonderland’ Crew List
Evelyn Bitterling, Joel Criollo, Grace Fowler, Bradley McCray, Kimberly Soucy, Carsin Tribbey, Jasmyn Zartman and Jalynn Zartman.
‘Alice@Wonderland’ Tech Crew List
Tech Director and Audience Manager Lisa McMillen and students Kadence Bradley, Bruce Clark, Adison Hayes, Sienna King and Chloe Wheadon.
Jesus heals a blind man
(Read: John 9:1-41)
By THE REV. RON PURKEY
“Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God?... And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee.” (John 9:35 & 37).
This man had a problem. (1) He was blind (Ephesians 4:18; John 3:3; 2 Corinthians 4:3-6).(2) He was begging. (3) He was helpless. He could not cure himself; others could not cure him. But Jesus Christ healed him.
The religious leaders had let it be known that anyone who confessed Christ openly would be cast out of the synagogue (verse 22). This meant, of course, losing friends and family and all the benefits of the Jewish religion. It was this declaration that forced the blind man’s
parents and neighbors to “beat around the bush” when asked about his amazing cure.
The son’s simple confession in verse 11 exalted Christ, though at that time he did not fully know who “the man called Jesus” really was. The Pharisees attacked Christ by saying he was not of God (verse 16) and calling him a sinner (verse 24).
The son told what he knew (verse 25) and showed the Pharisees how foolish their thinking was (verses. 30-33).
The simple-hearted believer knows more spiritual truth than unsaved educated theologians. (See Psalm 119:97-104.) The final result: they excommunicated the man from the synagogue.
It would have been easy for the son to hide his confession and thus avoid controversy, but he fearlessly stood his ground. He knew what a difference Jesus Christ had made in his life, and he could not deny it.
Everyone who has met Christ and trusted him should make it known openly.
The man did not realize it then, but the safest place for him was outside the Jewish religious fold.
The Jews cast him out, but Christ
took him in. Like Paul (see Philippians 3:1-10), this man “lost his religion” but found salvation and went to heaven.
Notice carefully how this man grew in his knowledge of Christ: (1) “A man called Jesus” (verse 11) was all he knew when Christ healed him. (2) “A prophet” (verse 17) is what the man called him when the Pharisees questioned him. (3) “A man of God” (verses. 31-33) is what he concluded Jesus to be. (4) “The Son of God” (verses 35-38) was his final and complete confession of faith (See John 20:30-31).
Someone has said: “The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the full light of day.” This blind man’s growth in “light” proves it.
A Christian is one who has light in his heart (2 Corinthians 4:6) and who is a light in the world (Matthew 5:14). He walks in the light (1 John 1) and produces the fruit of light (Ephesians 5:8-9). This man’s confession, “Lord, I believe,” was the turning point in his life.
Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines free at rcpbibleoutlines. com. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.
TEA PARTY Rehearsing a tea party scene from Rochester High School Tri-Epsilon’s play “Alice@Wonderland” are from left Daniel Yocum, Alex Porterfield, Cherokee Wallace and Molly Leslie. Photo by Leah Sander.
O bituaries
Robert O. Gottschalk
Accomplished local businessman
Robert O. Gottschalk 97, Rochester, passed away at 4:42 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024, in his residence.
He was born on Nov. 4, 1927, in Fulton County. On Aug. 27, 1948, in Rochester, he married Elaine Weller; who survives.
ROBERT O. GOTTSCHALK
He was the son of Fred and Helen (Shuman) Gottschalk. Robert graduated from Fulton High School in 1945 and continued his education at Indiana Institute of Technology. He served with the United States Army during World War II with the 7708th War Crimes Group stationed in Germany.
Robert had worked as a dairy farmer from 1954 to 1969 and had worked as an insurance agent, real estate broker and the trustee of Rochester Township. In 1972, he established Gottschalk Realty from where he retired.
He was a member of the First Christian Church, Masonic Lodge 32nd Degree, Scottish Rite, American Legion, Farm and Land Institute, was on the Rochester School Board from 1971-1974, National Association of Realtors, Fulton County Board of Realtors, serving as their president from 1972-1973 and winning Realtor of the Year award in 1984.
He was also a member of the Rochester Rotary Club, and served as Rotary President from 1972-1973 and was on the board of directors in 1983 as well as serving on the board for First National Bank. He was the Fulton County Family Y President in 1975 and an honor society member of the Indiana Association of Realtors and served as President for AFLM in 1981-1982.
Robert won the Rochester Lake Manitou Chamber of Commerce Community Service Award in 1990 and received a certificate of appreciation from the Daughter’s of American Revolution, Fulton County Civil Defense Appreciation Award in 1981, Indiana Farm and Land Realtor of the Year in 1983 and the American Red Cross Appreciation Award in 1990.
Robert had created the Rochester Development Company owning and developing the downtown Rochester quarter block after Wiles Department Store burned and brought in two new retail stores. He had also had partnership owning and developing the Ribordy Drug Store building as well as Partner Guaranteed Trade Inc. of rental properties. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing golf, reading and ice cream.
Additional survivors are his daughter, Connie Hudkins; sons, David (Deana) Gottschalk, Steve (Carol) Gottschalk, Rochester; daughter-in-law, Debbie (Jim) Frost, all of Rochester; grandchildren, Dean (Natasha) Gottschalk, Emily (Franz) Forman, Leslie (Heather Easley) Gottschalk, Evan (Emily) Gottschalk, Lana (Kyle) Wilson, Allie (Jason) Doerffler and Zac (Jasmine) Gottschalk; great-grandchildren, Mia Gottschalk, Madeline, Katie, Jackson Forman, Madeline Gottschalk, Jane, Luke, Alice, Drew Gottschalk, Parker, Piper, Porter Wilson, Olivia, Caleb, Emma Doerffler, Aurora, Elijah and Isaiah Gottschalk; brother, James Gottschalk, Fort Myers, Fla.; sister, Phyllis (Jim) Bird, Logansport; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Richard (Dick) Gottschalk; infant daughter, Cathy Gottschalk; brother, William Gottschalk; and sister, Mary Ruth Keim.
Memorial services will be conducted by Rev. Mike VanHeyningen, at noon, Saturday, Nov. 23, at First Christian Church, Rochester. Friends may visit with the family from 10 a.m to noon Saturday, at the church.
Burial will follow in the Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rochester, with military rites being performed.
Memorial contributions may be made to the First Christian Church, Rochester. Arrangements have been entrusted to Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester.
Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh.com.
Georgiann Pickens
Retired Cass County Treasurer
Georgiann Pickens, age 91, Lucerne, passed away peacefully on Nov. 14, 2024, at Wynnfield Crossing, Rochester.
She was born on June 7, 1933, in Winamac, to the late Charles and Florence (Howard) Riemenschneider.
On May 4, 1951, In Young America, Georgiann married her loving husband, Clifford D. Pickens; who preceded her in death on Aug. 7, 2009. Georgiann retired after working for the Cass County Treasurers Office and also for EEL township trustee. She was a member of Logansport Niddee Shrine Guild, Past Maharanee, Past Worthy Matron, and a member of the Royal Center Chapter No. 375 Order of Eastern Star.
Georgiann is survived by her son, Monte (Corinne) Pickens, Rochester; daughter, Pam (Denny) Grable, Springboro, Ohio; grandson, Brian Grable, Salem, Mass.; two granddaughters, Jill (Jim) Topich, Mason, Ohio and Lindsey (Matt) Dunithan, Syracuse; stepgranddaughter, Britt Fansler, Cromwell; and seven great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her two brothers, Bill and Donald Riemenschneider; one son, Ronnie Pickens; and one great-granddaughter, Jacqueline Topich.
A celebration of life service was held at 1 p.m. Tuesday Nov. 19, in the Gundrum Funeral Home, Logansport, with Pastor Mark Spencer officiating. Interment will be in the Metea Cemetery, Metea.
An Eastern Star and Niddee Shrine Guild service was held prior to her funeral service on Tuesday.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Shriners Hospital’s for Children.
Online condolences can be shared with the family at gundrumcares.com. Arrangements were entrusted to Gundrum Funeral Home.
Gary A. Severns Retired Tool and Die Maker
Gary A. Severns, 70, Rochester, passed away at 3:45 p.m. Monday, Nov. 11, 2024, at Wynnfield Crossing, Rochester.
He was born on Nov. 30, 1953, in Rochester, the son of Jack and Lu Edith (Baker) Severns. Gary graduated from Rochester High School in 1972. On Dec. 31, 1977, in Rochester, he married Jacquelyn C. Langley and they had two daughters, Kristina and Jennifer. On Feb. 22, 1992, in Rochester, he married Janet (Bookwalter) McMillen; who survives.
GARY A. SEVERNS
Gary had been a tool and die maker for Talma Fastners then onto TruFast/ABC of Bryan, Ohio, where he established several patents and retired December 2016. Gary always had a passion for building, tinkering and repairing items. In his younger days, he was active in the county 4-H and baked a cookie that made it to the state fair.
He enjoyed building R.C. model airplanes, bottle rockets, trailers, a log splitter and a go-cart. His building trades talents extended to building his own house. He also restored his fathers D19 Allis-Chalmers. In his leisure time, he enjoyed reading and spending time with his children and grandchildren.
Additional survivors are three daughters, Kristina (Phil) Drubert and Wendy (Todd) Scobie, both of Rochester and Jennifer (Mike) Abair, Harrison, Mich.; son, Jason (Jodi) McMillen, Logansport: two brothers, Dan Severns, Akron and Terry Severns, Rochester; sister, Linda Heighway, Akron; sisters-in-law, Patricia Dyer and Sandy (Tom) Raisor, both of Logansport; 15 grandchildren, Zackery (Victoria) Scobie, Chad (Kelli) Scobie, Krystin (Trevor) Manns, Sidneigh Scobie, Hailey (John McGurn, Wesley Scobie, Caramon Drubert, Timothy, Jacob, Kaleb, Lilly Abair, Elaina Drubert, Alyssa Abair, Ella and Lumen McMillen; eleven great-grandchildren, with one due in January; and several nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death are his parents; brother-in-law, Ned Heighway; and sisters-in-law, Lorraine Severns and Rita Severns.
Memorial services were held at 5 p.m. Monday Nov. 18, at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, with Bruce Russell officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Riley’s Children Hospital, Indianapolis. Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh.com
Eunice E. Urbin
Eunice E. Urbin, 73, Kewanna , died Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024, at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne.
She was born on Jan. 22, 1951. On March 8, 1970, she married Ned Urbin; who survives.
Additional survivors are her children, Jay (Holly) Milford, Kathy Krachinski, Kerrie (Eric) Green and Joel Urbin, all of Kewanna, Kellie (Jeremy) Swango and Jason (Jessica) Urbin; both of Rochester; brother, Phil Smitley (Madge), Bunker Hill; sister, Beverly Smitley, Ohio; twin sister, Janice Wentzel, Kewanna; and sister-in-law, Deb Smitley, Warren; 22 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-granddaughter.
She was preceded in death by daughter, Karla Urbin; son-in-law, Steve Krachinski; brother, Rev. David Smitley; brother-in-law, Gary Wentzel; and grandchildren, Jeremy Green and Precious Urbin.
Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, Nov. 15, at Rans Funeral Homes & Crematory, Metzger Chapel, 123 E. Main St., Kewanna.
Interment was in Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Lake Bruce.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Rochester Church of God.
Online condolences can be shared with the family at ransfuneralhomes.com.
Dennis L. Kamp
Dennis L. Kamp, 71, New Carlisle, and formerly of Akron, died unexpectedly at 12:15 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024, at Raclin Hospice House, Mishawaka.
He was born on Aug. 12, 1953. On Aug. 22, 2001, he married Linda Carol Hunt; who survives.
Additional survivors are his children, Kara (Doug) Sutton, Goshen, Kelly (Mark) McCall, Rochester, Kyle (Paige) Kamp, Twelve Mile; stepchildren, Danielle (Adal) Smith, South Bend, Kristin Stanley, Green Cove Springs, Fla., and Michael (Christine) Wilhelm, New Carlisle; 12 grandchildren; mother, Belle Kamp, Akron; siblings, Steven (Tracy) Kamp and Frank Kamp, both of Akron, Andrew (Lori) Kamp, Kewanna and Rebecca (Mark) Powell, Macy.
He was preceded in death by his father, Wayne Kamp.
Funeral services will take place at 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21, at Hartzler Funeral Home, 305 W. Rochester St., Akron, with Mark Powell officiating. A private interment will take place in the Mount Hope Athens Cemetery, Athens, at a later date.
Friends may visit two hours prior to services in the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Ernestine M. Raclin House, Center for Hospice, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, IN 46545.
EUNICE E. URBIN
GEORGIANN PICKENS
DENNIS L. KAMP
Bi R ths
Samantha Lee Tyson
Rachel Harp and Cody Tyson, Denver, are the parents of a daughter, Samantha Lee, born at 9:56 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5, in Woodlawn Health. She weighed 5 pounds, 5.5 ounces and was 18.5 inches long.
Maternal grandparents are Matt and Kim Harp, Denver.
Paternal grandparents are Herb and Lisa Tyson, Prescott, Mich.
Cillian Blain Hedington
Maranda and Cameron Hedington, Rochester, are the parents of a son, Cillian Blain, born at 6:41 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 31, in Woodlawn Health. He weighed 8 pounds, 12.5 ounces, and was 22.5 inches long.
Zoie Ann Dovich
Alyssa Calvert and Eugene Dovich, Rochester, are the parents of a daughter, Zoie Ann, born at 1:21 p.m. Monday, Nov. 4, in Woodlawn Health. She weighed 7 pounds, 1 ounce, and was 20 inches long.
She joins siblings Makenzie, 10, and Tamryn, 3.
Maternal grandparents are Gary and Laura Calvert, Rochester.
Paternal grandparent is D. Partin.
Maternal great-grandparents are the late Patricia and Roy Calvert.
Paternal great-grandparents are Dana Carpenter, Rochester, and Rusty Hecht, Mishawaka.
C ounty R epo R t
Court
News
Circuit Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Circuit Court, Judge Arthur Christopher Lee presiding: Complaints
Midland Credit Management v. Rubylin Henning, Rochester, $2,557.97; Dawn Bettison, Rochester, $2,060.94
Mortgage Foreclosure
U.S. Bank Trust National Association, not in its individual capacity but solely as owner trustee for VRMTG Asset Trust v. Ronald James, Culver, and Lisa James, Culver, $211,500 Superior Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Superior Court, Judge Gregory L. Heller presiding: Complaints
Capital One, N.A. v. Kathy Shavey, Macy, $3,343.04; Janessa Salazar, Rochester, $1,594.85
Citibank, N.A. v. Jason Rhodes, Rochester, $5,696.19
Midland Credit Management v. Christine Falk, $2,701.16
The following fines and levies were paid in Fulton County courts:
Driving while suspended — Dilan Cruz Torres Becerril, South Bend, $164.50
Driving while suspended, speeding — Gary Salinsa, South Bend, $200
Speeding — Zachariah Marr, Paw Paw, Mich., $154.50; Sheresa Cushenberry, Indianapolis, $175; Kira Ely, Peru, $164.50; Levi Sampsel, Akron, $175; Chad Stann, New Orleans, La., $164.50; Anthony Cox, South Bend, $164.50; Dennea Dixon, Indianapolis, $175; Dylan Makar, Valparaiso, $154.50; Omar Gonzalez, Indianapolis, $175; Christy Carter, Nashville, Tenn., $154.50; Matthew Adent, Saint Joseph, Mich., $164.50; Michael Shea, Cassopolis, Mich., $164.50; William Johnson, Batesville, $154.50; Olivia Rice, Walkerton, $164.50; Ronald Ericson, South Bend, $154.50; Adam Roller, Greenwood, $175; Isaiah Felix, Akron, $164.50; Terry Penrod, Camby, $164.50; Liam Feathers, Plainwell, Mich., $154.50
Marriage
Licenses
The following couple has applied for a marriage license in the office of Fulton County Clerk of the Court: Donelson-Johnson Alec Donelson, 33, Rochester, and Alayna Johnson, 31, Rochester.
Marriage Dissolutions
The following couple has filed for a marriage dissolution in Fulton County courts: Gilbert — Kyle Gilbert, Monticello, and Breanna Gilbert, Rochester. No minor children.
Mistake
By RUSSELL DAVIDSON Guest Writer
Boy what a bummer. I’ve got the mind of a 25-year-old but the body of an 80-year-old man. That cute girl that works at the dollar store,
I’ve got to get her out of my mind. Let’s give it a try. I’m going to ask her for a date. Darn, the store is closed and she is getting in the car with a good looking young man. Guess I made a mistake, going back to being 80 again.
STATE OF INDIANA ) COUNTY OF FULTON ) SS: FULTON CIRCUIT COURT SITTING IN ROCHESTER, IN CAUSE NO. 25C01-2309-EU-000076
IN THE MATTER OF UNSUPERVISED ADMINISTRATION OF THE ESTATE OF PATSY L. BROWN, Deceased NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF FULTON COUNTY, INDIANA. In the matter of the Estate of PATSY L. BROWN, deceased. Cause Number: 25C01-2309EU-000076.
Notice is hereby given that on the 7th day of September, 2023, Bill Eugene Brown, Jr. was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Patsy L. Brown, deceased, who died on the 1st day of December, 2022. All persons having claims against this estate, whether or not now due, must file the claim in the Office Clerk of this Court within three (3) months from the date of the first publication of this notice, or within nine (9) months after the decedent’s death, whichever is earlier, or the claims will be forever barred.
DATED at Rochester, Indiana this 8th day of September, 2023. Dawn Ziemek
Clerk of the Fulton Circuit Court of Fulton County, Indiana
PREPARED BY:
George R. Livarchik, Atty. #9822-64
424 Broadway, Chesterton, IN 46304
PH: (219) 926-2123
Email: g_livarchik@frontier.com
Attorney for Sharon Kay Rock
CITY OF ROCHESTER WASTEWATER DEPARTMENT
The City of Rochester Wastewater Department has an opening for Collections Operations
Successful candidate must have excellent mathematical, written, and oral communication skills. Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds. Experience in operating machinery or mechanical ability is preferred. A valid Class-B CDL license is preferred, but not required at time of hire. Successful candidate will be required to obtain a CDL Class B within one year of hire date and after one year of experience will also be required to obtain Indiana Certified Wastewater Operator Class I license.
A high school diploma or equivalent, clean driving record, and pre-employment drug screen are required. Complete job description and applications are available at the City Building Complex, City Hall, 320 Main St., Rochester, IN 46975.
Applications must be received no later than November 27, 2024 to be considered for this position. EOE
JOB POSTING FOR THE CITY OF ROCHESTER WATER DEPARTMENT
The City of Rochester Water Department has an opening for a Full-Time Laborer
Successful candidate must have excellent mathematical, written, and oral communication skills. Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds and perform general labor duties such as digging, bending, twisting, etc. with hand tools and equipment.
Experience in operating machinery or equivalent is preferred, but not required.
A valid driver’s license with clean driving record and a high school diploma or equivalent are required. Successful candidate will also be required to obtain the necessary certifications for water plant operations. Complete job description and applications are available at the City Building Complex, City Hall, 320 Main St., Rochester, IN 46975. These are available through the drive-through at the Water Office and City Hall. Applications will be accepted November 4, 2024 through November 29, 2024 by end of day. EOE
Look Ahead To Christmas
Streamline your cooking for this holiday season
(StatePoint) Anyone who has ever hosted a big holiday meal knows there can be a lot of pressure to ensure everything comes out at the right time, and more importantly, tastes great.
Whether you’re feeding your family or a crowd, here’s how to streamline your cooking during the holidays and beyond by using the right equipment to its maximum capabilities:
Versatile appliances eliminate the need for a slew of single-use pieces of equipment like pizza ovens, air fryers and secondary ovens, which can clutter the kitchen and make your job more complicated. Being able to do the majority of your cooking with just a few appliances will keep you organized during the busy holiday meal prep rush.
With that in mind, consider outfitting your kitchen with a double oven range or multi-function oven, which will allow you to cook independently in a single standard size appliance.
With two ovens, you can prepare multiple dishes that require different temperatures or modes simultaneously, so that you can roast the
holiday turkey or ham in the larger oven, while steaming or baking your sides in the smaller oven and stovetop, without the hassle of over and undercooking, or crossing flavors between dishes.
A double oven like the Italian-made Verona Appliances 36inch Double Oven Prestige Range gives you the extra space you need to produce the quantity and quality of food you want. Available in stainless steel, matte black and white, it offers a stylized, upgraded look, along with high-powered, professional-level cooking performance.
The 10 easy-to-use cooking modes of a Lofra luxury Italian range empower you to just as easily achieve a flawless crust on a casserole as to perfect your favorite seasonal cookie recipe. Representing the perfect union of form and function, you’ll benefit from modern cooking features and gorgeous design.
To stay truly agile as a home chef, you’ll also want to make sure that you’re making full use of every accessory that is included in your appliances. The Verona Ultima range, for example, is a premier cooking appliance that comes with upgrad-
ed features and accessories, including an air fry tray, space saver shelf, a broiler pan and a griddle, for the ultimate all-in-one range. Its blend of beautiful design and innovative features will likely inspire compliments from your holiday guests. Both Verona and Lofra are exclusively imported by EuroChef USA. For more information, visit eurochefusa.com.
Beyond equipment, your day will go more smoothly if you make a plan. Write out a timeline of the tasks you must complete, including the times when items need to go into the oven and be removed. You can also recruit a family member or two to assist with dicing, peeling and other prep tasks. Finally, don’t be afraid to take guests up on their inevitable offers to bring something. Whether it’s dessert or cocktail ingredients, they’ll be giving you one less thing to worry about and you’ll be making them feel helpful — winwin!
With multifunctional equipment and a smart game plan, you can streamline your kitchen and take your hosting to the next level this holiday season. Happy cooking.
Festive foods for your dog this holiday season
(Family Features) Bring on the list-making, gift-giving, party-going time of year. The holiday season would also feel incomplete without delicious dishes to keep everyone feeling merry and bright. By everyone, that includes canine companions, too.
Consider this list of pup- and pet-parent-approved festive foods, as well as those to avoid, from the experts at Petcurean, makers of premium quality, nutrient-rich food for pets:
Enjoy steamed vegetables: Holiday feasts are all about the side dishes. Dogs can savor their own sides with plain vegetables like steamed green beans or carrots, making for a flavorful, nu-
tritious addition to their meals. Vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals, and steaming them allows more of the nutrients to be retained while also supporting proper digestion. Be sure to chop veggies into small pieces and stay clear of seasoning or sauce.
Avoid chocolate: There’s no way to sugarcoat it – chocolate is a no-go for dogs. The presence of both caffeine and a chemical called theobromine makes chocolate toxic to dogs because they aren’t able to metabolize them the way humans can. If ingested, chocolate can lead to a spike in heart rate and blood pressure, as well as vomiting, diarrhea, agitation, seizures and more. If ingested, pet parents should monitor their pup closely and check with a veterinarian.
Enjoy fresh meats: When cooked, fresh meat such as chicken, turkey, pork or beef can satisfy cravings while also offering pups a nutritious meal that is easy to digest. Pet parents can also choose a kibble made with fresh meats as a convenient option that supports dogs’ overall wellness, such as Now Fresh Good Gravy, which is made with easily digested fresh meats and nutrient-dense fruits and veggies, and by adding water, a delicious bone broth gravy is created for your pup to enjoy.
Avoid table scraps: For many reasons, it’s best to skip the table scraps. Not only could an allergen or toxin be present that pet parents may not be aware of, there are several other health risks associated with feeding dogs table scraps, such as digestive issues (vomiting, diarrhea, etc.) and even more serious problems like pancreatitis. Plus, giving dogs calorie-dense food can contribute to obesity.
Enjoy pumpkin: A staple of holiday feasts, pumpkin is not off the table for pups to enjoy. In fact, pumpkin is a superfood full of nutrients. Feeding dogs cooked or plain canned pumpkin can also be beneficial for their digestion because pumpkin contains fiber — just be sure to serve it free of seasonings like sugar and spices.
Just like their pet parents, pups deserve to indulge a little over the holidays, but it’s important to ensure what they eat leaves them feeling great. Remember to always check with a veterinarian about any concerns, especially when introducing new foods, and visit nowfresh.com to find personalized nutrition crafted for your pet.
Look Ahead To Christmas
How to keep poinsettias beautiful through
By KATHARINE COOK
Texas A&M AgriLife
Poinsettias are a holiday season staple and there are a few things you can do as a consumer to make your purchase last to the new year.
Andrew King, Ph.D., Texas A&M AgriLife Research ornamental specialist and assistant professor in the Texas A&M Department of Horticultural Sciences, said nurseries and retail stores will soon be fully stocked with poinsettias.
While many may assume the colorful portions of the plant are flower petals, they really are modified leaves known as bracts.
King said there are several bract color options to choose from, including the classic crimson red, cream and white as well as pinks, yellows and marble. Retailers also offer “hand-painted” poinsettias in colors like purple and blue.
“Poinsettias are a classic ornamental plant,” he said. “Choosing the right plant and a little care will ensure your plant retains its decorative aesthetics through the holidays. You can even keep your poinsettias, which are perennial ornamentals, for display in holidays to come.”
Pick The Right Poinsettia Be picky when it comes to poinsettias. Look for signs plants are healthy and vigorous and have been cared for properly, King said. If the poinsettia’s shape is nice and full and doesn’t show any signs of decline, such as wilted leaves or brown lesions on the bracts, it is likely a good pick.
Poinsettias can be relatively unforgiving, and plants that look like they may be in decline may not recover once you get them home.
Buy Early For Longer Display
King said it’s likely most poinsettias, especially those available beyond Thanksgiving, will be in full color. Again, look for signs of plant vigor, including brilliant color.
But buying early plants — ones that have not fully colored up — is one way to display them and extend the attractive life of a poinsettia.
Be Careful Getting Poinsettias Home
Poinsettias are relatively delicate plants so make sure you get them home in as good a shape as they were on display. Stems can be damaged, so be mindful of where you place them for the ride home.
King said nurseries will typically have protective sleeves to place around plants as a safeguard. If not, place them in the car where they remain upright, stable and not crushed by
any objects.
Water With Care
Poinsettias don’t like either extreme when it comes to water. Too little water can lead to irreversible wilting. And too much water can prevent the plant’s roots from taking in oxygen from the soil. So, it’s important to make sure the soil is draining well.
Give your plant the fingertip test to tell when to water. Stick your finger into the soil, and only water your plant when you feel the soil surface is dry.
King also said to remove any decorative foil from the container when you water the plant and ensure that the soil is finished draining if you replace the foil. That foil could prevent drainage, pool water and drown the plant.
Not Too Hot, Not Too Cold
Poinsettias don’t like extreme temperatures either. High temperatures — above 80 degrees — can negatively impact their color and aesthetic performance. Low temperatures — below 50 degrees — can also lead to aesthetic decline.
Sunlight Is Good Poinsettias also like sunlight. A fully colored poinsettia needs about six to eight hours of light each day. Place them next to a bright window or out on the porch if the temperatures aren’t too hot or cool.
Keeping Your Poinsettia Poinsettias are a tropical pe-
rennial, so you don’t have to trash them once the holidays are over. With a little attention, they will continue coming back with color each holiday season.
The first step is to cut them back to about 6 inches and repot into the next largest-sized container, King said. Give them a dose of slow-release fertilizer or liquid fertilizer as the manufacturer recommends and water them as needed throughout the year.
You’ll want to continue pinching the plant back to promote stem growth that will give you a nice round, voluminous plant once they flower. Poinsettias tend to grow tall and spindly when they aren’t cut back.
They can be placed outside during the summer but keep them in a shady area and bring them inside if temperatures dip below 50 degrees.
In the fall, around mid-September to early October, poinsettias need complete darkness between sundown and sunrise for them to flower. Any light can negatively impact the flowering process, so keep them in a dark closet that isn’t opened and closed during those nighttime hours. Once the plant has developed the color you like, you can stop this light exclusion.
Repeat this process each year, repotting the plant into a successively larger container. Once you have transplanted it into
the largest container that is convenient, you can still keep the plant healthy by “repotting” the plant into the same container. This includes shaving the roots around the edges and bottom of the root ball and adding fresh potting mix. Cutting back the roots stimulates new growth.
Poinsettias And Pets
Despite what the internet may
say around the holidays about poinsettias poisoning pets, King said they pose a minimal threat to humans or pets beyond a possible stomachache if consumed. Some people have allergic reactions to the milky sap they produce, so be mindful of them around those with allergy sensitivities. But keeping them out of the reach of children and pets is always a good idea.
BASIC CARE With a little basic care, poinsettias will stay looking vibrant through the holiday season. Photo by Rudy Ruedas/Texas A&M AgriLife.
(StatePoint) A book can inspire joy and stir the imagination, and even better this holiday season is the gift of sharing that book with your child.
“Turning the pages of a high-quality, print book filled with colorful pictures and rich, expressive language is best,” said Dr. Dipesh Navsaria, a pe-
diatrician. “While touchscreens and other electronic devices may be popular, they are typically passive or solitary experiences for children and do not offer the same benefits of interpersonal connection and relationship building.”
Starting from infancy, reading aloud helps build the foundation
for healthy social-emotional, cognitive, language and literacy development. Sharing books helps with language development and vocabulary, and gets them ready to listen and learn in school. And over the past decade, research has found that reading together helps foster positive interactions, strengthening the safe, stable and nurturing relationships young children must have to thrive.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends reading with your child every day, even if only for a few minutes, and making it part of the bedtime routine. Each evening, set aside 20 to 30 minutes with screens off for sharing books.
Remember that the experience should be fun. You don’t have to finish a story if your child loses interest. Let your child choose the book, even if it means reading the same book over and over. You can invite your child to “read” to you from a familiar book that they have memorized. Dr. Navsaria suggests asking about the illustrations or what your child thinks
will happen next. You can say: “Can you find all the blue things?” or “Show me all the things that can fly.” Point out colors, shapes, numbers and letters and respond with enthusiasm to your child’s questions and comments.
Local libraries offer a wide variety of children’s literature, including fairy tales, poetry and nursery rhymes, as well as non-fiction books on subjects children love, such as the ocean or dogs. Follow your child’s interests in choosing books. Children’s librarians can help you with high-quality book selections on a wide range of topics. And during the holidays, consider building your home library and reinforcing the value of great books by giving them as gifts.
By age 4, a child can typically tell you which books they want to share with you; pretend to read a favorite book aloud to you; and tell you how a story is like things they have seen or done. They may ask you questions about books you are enjoying together or “correct” you if you skip a word or page in a favorite book.
As children grow older, reading can help develop character and values that are important to your
family. In fact, a really great book has the power to counterbalance negative outside influences and teach children important lessons as they grow.
“It might be a book on kindness after your child experienced or witnessed cruelty,” Dr. Navsaria said. “It might be a book on expressing emotions after your child saw or heard scary news coverage, or maybe a book on understanding differences after your child saw someone who looked different than they expected.”
The AAP and Reach Out and Read have compiled a list of books—organized by age and topic—to help you raise children who are curious, brave, kind, thoughtful and aware of the world around them. You can find the list at healthychildren.org.
“Books are great conversation starters,” Dr. Navsaria said. “They’re also just a lot of fun and can help create wonderful memories, particularly during the holidays when you’re spending extra time together. A shared reading experience, as a tender, magical and loving time spent with your child, is truly a gift. It speaks to the heart of what parenting is.”
Look Ahead To Christmas
Don’t let the holiday season set
(StatePoint) The holiday season may be warm, merry and bright, but it’s also a time when it’s all too easy to spend more than you plan to and rack up debt you can’t manage.
According to Certified Financial Planner professionals, here’s how to celebrate the season in style while positioning yourself for a financially healthy 2025: Create your budget: Take a look at your budget to determine how much you can earmark for holiday expenses. Do you need to cut back on any nonessential spending to afford the holiday season you desire? Make a comprehensive list of all your expected expenditures, including for travel, hosting, decorating, gifting and charitable giving. Don’t have a budget? A CFP professional can help you create one to stay on track with your financial goals during the holidays and beyond. Stretch your budget: Stretch your holiday budget creatively. When shopping online or booking travel, find the best deals by using a browser extension that comparison shops. Entertaining? Rather than providing every dish yourself, host a cookie exchange or potluck. If you have a large extended family or circle of friends that holds a traditional gift ex-
change, suggest a Secret Santa or white elephant exchange instead.
Maintain your credit: While it’s fun to be extravagant and give big-ticket items that will wow your recipients, your holiday spending shouldn’t harm your credit. Keep an eye on your debt-to-credit ratio throughout the season and set reminders of when credit card payments are due. If you purchase an item using a Buy Now Pay Later plan, put payment due dates in your calendar to avoid late fees.
Give wisely: Many people make charitable contributions around the holidays. If you plan to give, do it in a way that offers a tax advantage. From deductions to donating appreciated assets to using a Donor Advised Fund, a CFP professional can help you find a strategy that is good for you and for the cause you care about.
Save all year: Diverting a small portion of each paycheck into a special savings fund all year long can help ensure you’re prepared to meet holiday expenses. Once this current season wraps up, you can begin to plan for next year. A CFP professional can help you set this fund up and offer suggestions for maximizing these savings.
Make your resolutions now: Whether it’s to pay down debt
DON’T SPEND MORE THAN YOU PLAN The holiday season is a time when it’s all too easy to spend more than planned and rack up debt.
or set up a retirement fund, you don’t have to wait until the new year to get started on your resolutions. Get a healthy money mindset now so that come January, you’ll have already established habits that move you toward your goals.
Working with a financial advisor to prep for the holidays can help ensure you have a stressfree season. Find your CFP professional, trained to offer comprehensive solutions for your unique situation, by visiting letsmakeaplan.org.
During a season of festivities, financial planning may not be top of mind. However, smart spending habits can help ensure you enter 2025 in the black.
Updates and happenings around
Fulton County Public Library, 320 W. Seventh St., Rochester, will do stained glass ornaments from noon to 3 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22, in meeting room
A. It will be taught by Mary Szymczak. Sign up at the circulation desk or call (574) 2232713.
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If you need some extra help for the holidays, apply for a Christmas basket. United Ministries is offering the baskets to those who qualify. Applications will be available at the Community Resource Center from 9:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 23. Delivery date will be Saturday, Dec. 14.
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Santa’s Workshop Crafts and More will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23, at the Fulton County Historical Society, 37 E. 375N, Rochester. Space is limited. All proceeds will be donated to local veterans. For more information contact Tawnya Warren at (574) 780-6083, Pam Cretcher at (574) 265-7535, or Michelle Minisan at (574) 315-8907.
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The Times Theater, 618 Main St., Rochester, will present Blue Sky Dogs at 7 p.m. Saturday,
Nov. 23. $15 general admission. Doors open at 6 p.m.
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Area plan meeting will be at 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 25, in the commissioner’s room, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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There will be a blood drive from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26, at the St. Joseph Parish Hall, 1310 Main St., Rochester. Call (800) 733-7267 or visit RedCrossBlood.org to schedule an appointment.
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City council will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Akron Public Library, 205 E. Rochester St., Akron, is celebrating diNovember this month. Do a dino scavenger hunt and activity through Nov. 27. For more information visit akron.lib.in.us or call (574) 8934113.
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Board of public works will meet at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 27, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Local historian, Bob Clyde,
will continue his discussion of the history of Kewanna at Kewanna Union Township Public Library, 210 E. Main St., Kewanna. Back to the Past will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 27.
For more information and updates visit the Facebook page, Kewanna Union Township Public Library, visit kewanna.lib. in.us or call (574) 653-2011.
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Redevelopment commission meeting will be at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 27, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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The Times Theater, 618 Main St., Rochester, will present Echoes of Pompeii, a Pink Floyd Experience, at 7-9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 29. Under 18 with a parent or guardian. Tickets start at $20.
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Grace Church, 201 W. Seventh St., Rochester, will offer a free meal from 5-6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30.
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Holiday Stroll will be at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, in downtown Rochester.
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The Tippecanoe Valley Mir-
acle Tree is now on display at Akron Public Library, 205 E. Rochester St., Akron. Help local families this Christmas season. It will continue until all the names are taken. Visit the library for more details.
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St. John’s Lutheran Church, 404 Jefferson St., Rochester, accepts and distributes donated clothing, household items and more to anyone in need. Hours of operation are Monday-Thursday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. or by appointment. Call the church for more information and available drop off times
area
(574) 223-6898.
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Fulton County Animal Center offers Jog with a Dog. Go to the shelter, choose a dog you would like to jog with, sign out and go jogging or walking. For more information visit fultoncoanimalcenter.org.
The center is located at 1540 Wentzel St., Rochester.
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The Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority Energy Assistance Program can help pay heating and electric bills. To see if you qualify and to apply visit EAP.ihcda.in.gov.
Family sponsors sought for Miracle Tree program
Anyone looking for a way to give back this Christmas season can sponsor a family in need within the Rochester School Corporation or Tippecanoe Valley School Corporation through the Miracle Tree program.
Miracle Tree has been a holiday tradition in Fulton County for years thanks to the generous donors and businesses that have supported the program.
The Rochester tree is located
OPEN BOWLING
at Shepherd’s Chevrolet at the corner of SR 25 and 14, Rochester. Tippy Valley trees are set up at Bell Memorial Public Library in Mentone and Akron Carnegie Public Library, Akron. Families who have expressed an interest in receiving help this year were assigned a number. Those numbers were then placed on ornaments and hung on the trees. If a person, business or organization is interested in sponsoring a family, they simply take an ornament from the tree and give it to the front desk at the dealership or library. The sponsor is then provided a wish list for that family with items the children might want for Christmas.
Sponsors wrap the gifts they purchase and then return them back to a community location specified on each wish list. To avoid any confusion, there are specific instructions on each wish list on how to mark the gift after it has been wrapped so organizers know which gift belongs to which family and child.
There is no limit to the amount of money a sponsor can spend on a family. Gifts will be distributed along with food boxes, to the families with a drive-thru pick up in December. For more information contact Chris Beall at (574) 224-5433 or email millcreek@thecreekonline.net.
FOR THE PARKS Pike Lumber Co. recently donated $25,000 to its Northern Indiana Community Fund for Akron-area parks. From left are Pike Lumber Co. Past President and Akron Park Board Member Jim Steen, Akron Park Board Member Jan Morgan, Fulton County Community Foundation Director of Development Brian Johnson, Pike Lumber President Craig Brouyette, Akron Park Board President and Pike Memorial Park Trustee Kirk Robinson, and Pike Lumber Co. Executive Vice President Chris Herrell. Photo provided by Kim Robinson.
Pike Lumber donates $25K for parks’ fund
Pike Lumber Co. recently made a $25,000 donation to its Northern Indiana Community Foundation fund supporting Akron-area parks. This was the eighth installment
of a 10-year plan. Pike’s involvement with the park system dates back to the 1950s when Pike Lumber Co. founders D.A. and Eva Pike donat-
St. Joseph Catholic Church to host breakfast and pie auction
The annual breakfast and pie auction of St. Joseph Catholic Church will be held at 11 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 24, in the parish hall located at 1310 Main St., Rochester. Breakfast will be served by the Knights of Columbus at 10:30 a.m. for a freewill donation. Credit and debit cards accepted. Proceeds will benefit the sister parish in Mariani, Haiti. All are invited to attend.
Salvation Army volunteers will be ‘Ringing the Bell’
Akron Salvation Army volunteers will be “Ringing the Bell” at the Akron Community Center, 815 Rural St., Akron, during its annual craft show. Members of United We Stand Ministries of Akron will be volunteering from 9 a.m. to noon Monday, Dec. 23.
ed the land which would become Pike Memorial Park.
The money will go for various needs and projects for years to come.
Valley Board approves contract with teachers’ association
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
The Tippecanoe Valley School Board has approved the annual contract with the Tippecanoe Valley Classroom Teachers’ Association.
The board performed that action at a special meeting on Monday, Nov. 11, in the Tippecanoe Valley School Corp. Administration Office.
The agreement calls for teachers with bachelor’s degrees to have raises in a range of $400 to $1,200. Those with master’s degrees will have raises between $800 to $2,400.
The overall salary range goes from $44,175 to $80,650. Insurance costs for teachers will rise by 1%.
Bring your change and dollars to put in the kettle. The next “Ring the Bell” event in Akron, will be at the Lake City Bank/Akron Post Office area, from 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Dec. 14. Support this worthy cause to help local neighbors in need.
SPECIAL MEETING At a special Tippecanoe Valley School Board meeting on Monday, Nov. 11, are clockwise from left Todd Hoffman, David Lash, Tom Bauters, Adam Heckaman and Aaron Zolman. Photo by Leah Sander.
FOR READING The Indiana Retired Teachers Association recently awarded a $500 grant to Caston Elementary School kindergarten teacher Joyce Shaffer. She was one of the recipients for IRTA Area 3. From left are Fulton County Retired Teachers Association Co-President Jeri Good, Caston School Corp. Superintendent Angie Miller, FCRTA Co-President Stephenia Barkman-Adams, Shaffer, Cass County Retired Teachers President Barrie McCain and Caston Elementary School Principal Jennifer Lukens. Photo provided by Jeri Good.
Do I have dementia?
By CHRISTINA SODERLUND, MS, CCC-SLP
Editor’s Note: Christina Soder-
lund is a Speech Therapist at Woodlawn Health. Dementia is the umbrella term to describe Alzheimer’s disease,
Pick’s disease, Vascular dementia, Lewy Bodies disease, Parkinson’s disease, etc. Dementia is the shrinking of brain cells over
You are invited into my heart (temple) to be my personal Savior forever.
Please forgive and toss my past into your sea of forgetfulness for a fresh start in 2024 and eternity.
This issue has now been resolved between you and myself.
Amen.
time, ranging from slow to rapid deterioration of bodily functions. These functions may include activities of daily living involving the ability to walk, communicate, swallow, etc.
Risk factors of dementia may include genetic markers, environment, nutrition and lifestyle choices. Individuals with a family history of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease, pose a higher risk of inheriting the genetic marker. Research studies have shown certain dementia types are likely to pass through generations.
Other risk factors involve the environment, nutrition and lifestyle choices that may jumpstart the shrinking or dying of brain cells. Situations may include physical inactivity, decreased socialization, lack of learning new skills and inadequate diet. Dementia can affect young and old, however, more often affects the aging population. Everyday forgetfulness may include leaving the door unlocked or not calling a friend back, which are not alarming signs. However, red flags occur when the stove is left on all day, when wearing a swimsuit during winter, when driving to the gas station and ending up at the library.
written by James-Fran ois Ziegler
If you are concerned, it’s time to set up a doctor’s appointment and discuss any concerns with possible brain changes. The doctor may discuss options depending on the severity level. Options may involve medications, referrals to other medical professionals and rehabilitation services such as the speech-language pathologist.
The SLP is trained to work with communication skills, cognitive processes (i.e. memory, attention), swallowing difficulties, etc.
Aubrey Wilson scored 10 points, and Ella McCarter added nine, but the Rochester girls basketball team lost to host NorthWood 49-31 at the Panther Pit in Nappanee Saturday, Nov. 15.
Relying on a man-to-man defense, NorthWood went on a 16-0 run in the third quarter to expand their lead to 34-13. They led by as many as 26 points in the fourth quarter.
NorthWood scored the first seven points of the game and never trailed. Rochester trailed 13-5 at one point in the second quarter before Wilson hit a pullup 10-footer as she was fouled. A McCarter 3-pointer cut the lead to 3.
After two straight Claire Payne putbacks to open the second half, McCarter hit Audrey Bolinger in the post with a nifty bounce pass, and Bolinger converted a 3-point play after being fouled by Payne.
Haylee Heflin scored 17 points to lead NorthWood, who made it to semistate in Class 3A last year. Fellow senior Payne had 16 points and 12 rebounds operating out of the post.
Five different NorthWood players made a 3-pointer.
North Miami’s Kayden Donaldson inadvertently tripped and fouled Wilson with the game tied and 22.7 seconds left during their girls basketball game Wednesday, Nov. 13.
It turned out to be ironic, as Wilson hit the go-ahead free throws, and the Lady Zs rallied from a nine-point fourth quarter deficit to trip up the host Lady Warriors 42-41.
Wilson scored eight of her career-high 19 points in the fourth quarter, and Rylee Clevenger hit two 3-pointers in the fourth quarter on her way to 12.
Brailyn Hunter had five, all in the final 1:27. That included a 3-pointer just from the right of the top of the key that tied it at 38.
After Wilson’s free throws gave
Rochester their first lead of the second half, Hunter solidified the lead when she hit two free throws after grabbing a Donaldson miss and absorbing a Laney Musall foul with 4.7 seconds left.
The lead was 42-38, which turned out to be Rochester’s largest lead.
Musall hit a 3-pointer, and North Miami called timeout with 0.3 seconds left.
Hunter then inbounded to Ella McCarter to drain the rest of the clock.
Rochester improved to 3-0. The three-game winning streak is longer than any winning streak the Lady Zs had last year.
“They’re wise beyond their years,” Rochester coach Joel Burrus said of sophomores Wilson and Hunter. “They’re smart kids. They know how to play the game.”
Rochester had one turnover in the fourth quarter and eight for the game. North Miami had five turnovers in the fourth quarter and 21 for the game.
“Honestly, I think in the first half, our defense really wasn’t working that much, so we had to really pick it up in the second half,” Wilson said. “I think coach Burrus expects a lot about our defense, especially if we’re not hitting shots as much. He actually motivated us to be better on the defensive end and also rebounding, which I thought our bigs and everyone else did a great job rebounding tonight.”
Donaldson floated in another bucket on a press breaker, but McCarter drained a 3 to make it 34-33.
Donaldson hit a 12-footer off
their first at home.
Led by weight class champion McKee, the Lady Zs scored 115 points and finished fifth out of 22 teams at the inaugural Lady Wildcat Wrestling Invitational at Whitko Nov. 9.
McKee, a sophomore who was a state qualifier, won the 125-pound “A” class. She defeated Western’s Genesis Johnson in
the final.
Other Rochester wrestlers who placed included Gerald, who was third at 105; Strasser, who was third at 110; Enyart, who was third at 145; and Peppler, who was third at 155A.
Five of Rochester’s six wrestlers placed.
Western won the team title with 174 points.
a Sailors assist, but Wilson hit a pullup 15-footer from the foul line.
Donaldson swished two free throws with 1:38 left to make it 38-35, but Wilson advanced the ball to the front court and kicked to Clevenger on the left wing. Hunter popped open and drilled a 22-footer to tie the game. Donaldson then missed a left baseline jumper, and Hunter rebounded. She hit Clevenger with an outlet pass near the North Miami bench, and Musall knocked it out of Clevenger’s hands and out of bounds with 1:09 left.
The Lady Zs then drained 47 seconds off the clock before Donaldson and Wilson’s legs met nearly 30 feet from the basket.
Girls Wrestling
Rilyn Strasser (115), Lilly Gerald (120), Makenna McKee (125), Kyra Doran (130), Elise Enyart (155) and Laine Peppler (170) all won by fall as the Rochester girls wrestling team won a home dual over Peru 36-18 on Wednesday, Nov. 13.
Rochester won six of the seven contested matches. This was just the second dual meet in Rochester girls wrestling history and
Fulton County Democrats to meet Nov. 21
The Fulton County Democrats will meet at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21, at the Char-Bell Studio, 616 Main St., Rochester, located next to the Times Theater. All are welcome.
BIBLE READING Fulton County Habitat for Humanity’s Marci Murphy, far right, reads a Bible passage during a dedication ceremony for the nonprofit’s 18th home, that of Cameron and Aubrey Skiles, on Friday, Nov. 15. Photo provided by
P ublic A uctions
Cripe Online Only Auction
Bidding open until Thursday, Nov. 21. Pickup located at 316 W. Garro St., Plymouth. Bid online at oakcrestauctions.com.
Public Auction
6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21. Located at 340 E. CR 50N, Winamac.
Double Real Estate Auction
10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 23. Located at 603 Pennsylvania Ave., Plymouth, and 10:15 a.m., located at 411 Pennsylvania Ave., Plymouth. Oak Crest Auctions.
Online Only Glass and Pottery Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 25. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Art glass, porcelain, uranium, hand-blown, stained glass lamps. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Glen Callaway Estate Auction
Wilma Metzger Estate Auction
10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 29. Located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Antiques, primitives, glassware, porcelain, chest freezer, furniture, sewing machine, home health care items. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 29. Located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Firearms, knives, ammunition, artifacts, pocket watches, coins. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
A NEW
Fulton County Habitat for Humanity had a dedication ceremony for its 18th home, that of Cameron and Aubrey Skiles and their four children, on Friday, Nov. 15. The new house is located at 1016 Monroe St., Rochester. In front from left are Habitat
for Humanity’s Scott Zeyen and Andrea Roe; and Cameron Skiles and Aubrey Skiles. In the back row are Habitat for Humanity’s Eric Schlarf, Andrew Horstman, Karmin Reeves, Ginger Slisher and Marci Murphy. Photo provided by Ginger Slisher.
Ginger Slisher.
TVHS project mainly down to punch list items
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
The Tippecanoe Valley High School construction project is mainly down to punch list items.
At its monthly public work session at TVHS on Thursday, Nov. 14, the Tippecanoe Valley School Board heard the above news from The Skillman Corp. Project Manager Scott Rogers. The Skillman Corp. is the construction management company for the project.
Parts of the project left in-
clude the auditorium and the wrestling and multipurpose room. Rogers said some aisle lights for the auditorium were to be in on Saturday, Nov. 16, with workers to put them in starting on Monday, Nov. 18.
“We’re trying to work around that schedule for (TVHS’ fall play ‘Circus Olympus’),” he said. That play is Thursday, Nov. 21, and Saturday, Nov. 23. The carpeting in the auditorium should also be finished by next month.
Rogers noted flooring in the wrestling and multipurpose room “just got finished today.”
He and Tippecanoe Valley School Corp. Superintendent Blaine Conley said the construction project probably will go into December.
NEW FLOORING Flooring was just installed in the new wrestling and multipurpose room at Tippecanoe Valley High School. Photo by Leah Sander.
