Shopping Guide News - December 25, 2024

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‘Original Snow Village’ at Rochester library grows for 2024

Text and Photos

A tiny winter wonderland at the Fulton County Public Library’s Rochester branch has grown a bit larger for 2024.

More elements have been added to the “Original Snow Village” at the library, which is on display until January.

“It’s somewhere over 10 feet that we had to add this year from last year,” noted FCPL Youth Services Assistant Morgan Davis.

Former area residents Tom and Sue Bair donated the village to the library several years ago.

However, more pieces of the village were discovered last year ahead of the library’s annual Christmas Open House when the

display is officially unveiled each year.

“The story goes that (FCPL Director) Andrea (Roe) got off the phone, and said, ‘Yes, we’ll take it. We’ll come get it,’ then got off the phone and looked at others and said, ‘But we’re not telling the girls down in (the) children’s (department) that we have it until after the open house,’” said Davis.

“Last year, we thought we had actually gotten it all out. That was our big, we are unveiling it in its entirety, but like I said, we

have some new pieces this year, so that’s extra fun,” she said.

Parts added to the village include an ice castle and golf course.

“It takes a village to put up a village,” said Davis. “Our maintenance man helps with some of the more technical things. He built our lake this year.”

Davis noted workers were a little more crunched for time to install the village as Thanksgiving was later this year and they wait to put it up until afterward.

The display was officially unveiled again at the library’s open house on Dec. 9.

“It’s awesome that we met our goal,” Davis said. “We weren’t sure that we would find a place for all of it. Obviously we kind of encroached on the kitchen this year.”

Davis said putting up the village is “a labor of love.”

“It brings the inner child out in everybody, so it’s wonderful for the community,” she said. “We’re glad that we get to do it.”

CHECKING OUT THE VILLAGE Sydney Lewis, left, and Zayn Livengood check out parts of the village.
GOLF COURSE A golf course is a new element of the village this year.
ORIGINAL SNOW VILLAGE From left, Fulton County Public Library Youth Services Manager Jennie Calvert, Youth Services Assistant Morgan Davis and Literacy Director David Hazledine pose with the “Original Snow Village” at the FCPL Rochester branch. More pieces were added this year to the village that Tom and Sue Bair donated several years ago.
CASTLE AND LIGHTHOUSE The ice castle and lighthouse are new to the village display this year.

Cosmetologist falls in love with the hairdressing art early in life

“Since I was a little girl, I have wanted to be a cosmetologist,” stated Darci Roe-Koch, Rochester. “I believe my career started when I was little and would play beauty shop with my dolls. As I became a teenager, I continued by practicing on my friend’s hair, and became quite good at it.”

After graduating high school, Roe-Koch faced financial challenges that prevented her from pursuing cosmetology school at the time. “After I got married, I decided to enroll in Regency Beauty Institute in Mishawaka. My friend Nikki encouraged me to pursue my dream and would give me a job when I graduated.”

Roe-Koch worked at Nikki’s Creative Hair Designs, Rochester, for 10 years. “I was very happy there but had a dream to have my own shop. So, when Henry from Long Nails approached me to go into business together, I said no at first. But after that, I changed my mind. He needed a licensed beautician onboard to open a beauty shop. From there we sat down and came up with a

business plan.”

She came up with the design for the business. “It was just a bare shop when we leased it. I used the name I came up with from my business class in beauty school: Karma Hair and Beauty Lounge.”

A year after entering business together, they decided to part ways. “I acquired his share of the business, and I am now the sole owner,” she stated.

A typical day for Roe-Koch starts at 9 a.m. “Each day is different. My colleague and BFF Amanda Barnes and I specialize in a variety of hair services, including haircuts, perms, extensions, and Brazilian blowouts. While we offer a comprehensive range of treatments, the majority of our clients seek professional hair coloring services.” Brazilian blowouts are advanced chemical treatments designed to smooth and straighten hair, leaving it sleek and manageable.

“I love changing a person’s whole outlook just by a simple haircut. A haircut can boost their morale. A color often changes the way they feel about themselves. I also enjoy giving advice on

products that are best for their particular hair type.”

Roe-Koch has been a professional stylist for the past 14 years. She has learned to read people pretty well. “You have to be a people person in our profession. And every once in a while, we run into someone who is hard to please, aggressive or just unpleasant. I’ve learned early that we can’t satisfy everyone.” But most of her clients are dear friends to her.

“I suggest a person shadows or interns in a beauty shop before attending beauty school. It allows a person to have a better understand of the industry.”

A high point each year happens a few weeks before the kids go back to school in the fall. “We collaborate with Jackie Johnson of Tidewater Tax Service for ‘Pack a Backpack Day.’ Teaming up with beauticians from South Bend, Plymouth and Rochester, we give free haircuts. Last year we gave 76 kids new haircuts for school. That’s a great way to give back to the community.”

Roe-Koch is a native of Rochester. She and her husband Chad have three grown children and 11 grandchildren.

DARCI ROE-KOCH
CELEBRATING A SCHOLAR Caston School Corp. honored Caston High School senior Braden Rush on Tuesday, Dec. 17, for being named the 2025 Fulton County Lilly Endowment Community Scholar. Shown from left are Rush’s father, Aaron Rush; Rush; and Rush’s mother, Christi Rush. Photo provided by Chuck Evans.

Good Neighbors is a column in which readers share friendly advice. To ask or answer questions, write the Shopping Guide News, Good Neighbors, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542; fax 800-886-3796; or e-mail abias@the-papers.com. Please no phone calls.

Editor’s Note: The Good Neighbors column is for people looking for hard-to-find or old items or for people seeking advice, not for items you can find in a local store or sell through the help of a classified ad. This column will now run every other week.

Free dogs

Good neighbors: Two friendly, free dogs. One is Australian shepherd and the other one is half Australian shepherd. Call (574) 773-7736.

New questions

Old Christmas cards — I would be interested in your old Christmas cards. Would consider taking the pillows, too. If not too far for picking them up, call (574) 773-3615. If no answer, leave a message with your phone number.

Cross-country skis/poles — Does any good neighbor have poles and women’s cross-country skis they would donate for winter therapy? Call (260) 894-0832.

Seeking toys — Toys your children have outgrown? I am seeking K’nex Creation Zone building set and any LEGOs. My 4- and 6-year-old boys need something new to do. Call (574) 325-2475.

Gas grill tanks/old pistons — If anyone in the Goshen area has small propane gas grill tanks for free they don’t want or old pistons with rods and push rods, I will pick them up to do projects in my garage. Call and leave a message or text at (574) 349-1367.

Egg cartons — Does any good neighbor have egg cartons to get rid of. Call (574) 773-7736.

Donato: Applications now open for Indiana Senate Page Program

The Indiana Senate is accepting applications for the 2025 Senate Page Program, said State Sen. Stacey Donato, R-Logansport.

Through the full-day program, students in grades 6 through 12 tour Indiana’s Statehouse, listen to debates and help staff with age-appropriate tasks. Students also have the opportunity to meet their state senator.

“I am always thrilled to see students from my district make the trip down to the Statehouse to participate in our page program,” Donato said. “I love meeting every young Hoosier that

joins us for a day of session and getting to answer their questions about state government. The program is such a valuable experience that I recommend any eligible student apply for.”

The Senate Page Program will begin in January and is expected to run through early April. Pages are scheduled for Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays during the legislative session. They begin their day at 8:30 a.m. and are dismissed at 3:30 p.m. Groups serve together on Wednesdays.

Indiana law permits eligible students to serve as a Senate

Let’s Study The Bible —

Page one day per legislative session and receive an excused absence from school for their participation. Positions fill quickly, so it is important to apply early. When completing the application, students will be able to request the day they would like to page. Once the application is submitted, the Senate Page Office will reach out to confirm the paging date and ensure all required participation forms are signed.

For more information or to apply, visit www.indianasenaterepublicans.com/page-program.

Christmas is not a fairy tale

(Read: Galatians 4:1-7)

“But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law” (Galatians 4:4).

C hristmas is not a fairy tale, not a dream, not a tradition. It is a glorious reality. It is a time of joy.

Bethlehem’s manger crib became the link that bound a lost world to a loving God. From that manger came a man (the Messiah) who not only taught us a new way of life, but brought us into a new relationship with our creator.

Christmas means that God is interested in the affairs of people, that God loves us so much that he was willing to give his son.

to Abraham were fulfilled. Isaiah described the joy of Jerusalem after the return from exile. Paul sees a deeper meaning: joy in the church in spite of its persecution and suffering.

We Christians are children of promise, like Isaac (Galatians 4:23), and therefore children of liberty (Galatians 4:31). God had promised Abraham a son long before Ishmael was born. Ishmael “was added” (like the law, Galatians 3:19) and was a son of the flesh, a slave’s son.

The old covenant of law was never God’s final plan for Israel. It was added, like Ishmael, and brought bondage and sorrow. God’s commandment to Abraham was to cast out Ishmael and Hagar! Law and grace, faith and works, promise and commandment, can never live in the same household. The Judaizers in Galatia wanted to invite Hagar and Ishmael back into the family again!

The Apostle Paul refers to Isaiah 54:1 and applies this verse to the church. Just as Sarah was barren and had to wait for many years for her son, so the Jews had to wait many years before God’s promises

“And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord . . . And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger” (Luke 2:10-11; 16).

The danger Paul saw in Galatia is with us today. The flesh loves and craves “religious excitement” and feels gratified when it can keep some religious law. While there is nothing wrong with church traditions that are tied to Scripture and magnify Jesus Christ, we must beware of inviting Hagar and Ishmael back into the family. There can be no mixture of law and grace. May God help us to hold fast to His simple grace.

“Jesus said: “I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture” (John 10:9).

Prayer: “Thank You Father for Your wonderful Gift to men, women, and children; we praise God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit for Jesus.”

Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines free at rcpbibleoutlines. com. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.

O bituaries

Tina M. Goble

Zimmer-Biomet Employee and Cherished Grandma

Tina M. Goble, 55, Bourbon, was surrounded by her loving family when she passed away at 11:42 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2024, at Memorial Hospital, South Bend. This followed a brief and sudden illness.

On Sept. 13, 1969, Tina Marie Kamp was born in Rochester to Noel D. and Judy A. Cooper Kamp. Growing up she shared her childhood with a sister, Nicholle and brother, Rob. Proudly she graduated from Rochester High School with the class of 1987.

On March 9, 2001,Tina married the love of her life Mr. Tony Ray Goble. Together they blended their families and have shared over 24 years of life’s adventures. The family tree continued to grow with the blessings of their nine grandchildren plus a new edition in early 2025.

With a strong work ethic, Tina worked at Zimmer-Biomet of Warsaw for 27 1/2 years. She most recently served as senior lab lead. At home she enjoyed gardening both vegetables and planting flowers to enhance her landscape. Tina loved to read books, especially those of romance and mysteries. From her kitchen command post she took great joy in experimenting with new recipes.

Tina was a stellar Amazon customer, once nominated as customer of the year. Paramount in Tina’s life was her family. With great pride she answered to her favorite title of Grandma Tina. She doted on the grands and savored every birthday, family celebration and especially the holidays spending time together making memories.

Left to cherish Tina’s memory are her husband, Tony; five children, Letitia Joy Imel, Longmont, Colo., Damian Joseph (Janelle) Imel, Leicester, N.C., Dakota Allen (Lindsay) Imel, Bourbon, Dylan (Alicia) Goble, Delaney (Cameron) Hoskins, all of Warsaw; nine grandchildren, Hamilton Riley Hoff, Emerson David Imel, Everett Jack Imel, Espen Joseph Imel, Stella Grace Madsen, Opal Rae Imel, Griffin Jude Goble, Graham Lennon Goble, Scottie Joy Hoskins and another blessing due to arrive in early 2025; her parents, Noel and Judy Kamp; sister, Nicholle McLochlin, and her children, Connor and Kennedy, all of Rochester; brother, Rob (Lisa) Kamp, Akron, and their children, Seth, Caitie, Brandon and Michaela; grandmothers, Opal Kamp and Beulah Mae “Coopie” Cooper; and several nieces and nephews.

Preceding Tina in death are the father of her children, David Imel; brother-in-law, Sgt. Major Jeff McLochlin; grandparents, Don Kamp, Opal Kamp and Robert Cooper.

A celebration of life service was held at 2:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 20, in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 W. 18th St., Rochester, with Pastor Jim Howard officiating.

Interment was in the Rochester IOOF Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Marshall County Animal Shelter or the Fulton County Education and Adoption Center.

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

June Ann Senff

June Ann Senff, 84, Mentone, died at 2:05 p.m. Monday, Dec. 16, 2024.

She was born on April 12, 1940. On Nov. 9, 1974, she married Eldon D. Senff; who preceded her in death on March 13, 2004.

ANN SENFF

She is survived by her children, Tracey (Lori) Quier, Claypool, Dean (Kathy) Quier, Mentone and Sonya (Steve) Tener, Bourbon; stepchildren, Leslie (Roger) Morrow, Akron, Rhonda (Walleed) Sharbini, Texas and Jennifer Hatfield, Illinois; 16 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; one

great-great-grandchild; siblings, Buddy Smith, Bill Smith, Beverly Tackett and Keith Smith; and foster daughter, Sherrie Currier, Maine.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sons, David Christopher Senff and Robert Wayne Senff; and infant daughters, Susan Elizabeth and Cynthia Lynn; and 10 siblings.

A private interment will take place in the Mentone Cemetery, Mentone.

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

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

Georgianna Kanouse

Georgianna Kanouse, 90, died Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024, in her residence. Arrangements are pending at Good Family Funeral Home.

Thomas George ‘Uncle Tom’ Weaver

Gifted Photographer and Peace Corps Service Member

Thomas George “Uncle Tom” Weaver, 80, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024, at his home.

Born in Gary, on Nov. 5, 1944, to the late Mary Catherine and Earl Buck Weaver. Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Richard, Jim, Bob and Bucky; and his beloved dogs, Otto, Puppy, Freaky, Raven and Rue.

He is survived by his loyal sister, Judy; as well as a large and loving family; including nieces and nephews, Stephen, Mark, Rick, Mike, Dan, Tom, Kathy, John, Sue, Ron, Larry, Tim, Rich, Beth, Matt and Leigh.

Tom was a gifted photographer and an avid outdoorsman. His career was one of service, first in the Peace Corps and then as a nurse and a professor. He was known for his love of adventure, his nieces and nephews, and his cherished dogs. If you knew Tom, you knew of his passionate political leanings (solid Lefty) and his sports obsessions (White Sox and IU).

Tom didn’t want a formal service. Instead, he’d prefer that anyone who loved him keep his memory alive by regularly sharing a story about something crazy Old Uncle Tom did when he was still kicking which he was, until the very end.

The Good Family Funeral Home is entrusted with his arrangements.

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

TIMES THEATER

RECEIVES DONATION The Stacey Carvey-Schoenhals Foundation gifted the Times Theater with a donation of $2,400, which allows free movies every other month throughout 2025. Shown from left Gloria Carvey, Stacey Carvey-Schoenhals Board Member; Julie Shambarger, Times Theater President; and Stacey Wilson, Stacey Carvey-Schoenhals Treasurer. Photo provided by Stacey Wilson.

JUNE
TINA M. GOBLE
THOMAS GEORGE ‘UNCLE TOM’ WEAVER
RINGING THE BELLS — Sisters-in-law, Susie Bryant, left, and Margaret Bryant recently volunteered to ring the bells for The Salvation Army at Kroger in Rochester. Photo by Lori Carr.

Fulton County Wellness Center changes ownership

Text and Photos

The Fulton County Wellness Center has officially changed ownership.

On Thursday, Dec. 19, the Fulton County Chamber of Commerce celebrated the switch in ownership of the building at 529 Main St., Rochester, from Dr. Ken Hoff to the city of Rochester.

Hoff donated the center to the city, with the Fulton County Council on Aging taking over management of the center’s operations.

Hoff offered a few remarks during a brief ceremony before the ribbon-cutting.

“I think this is a good day for Rochester and the community,” he said. “I actually started the wellness center (in April 2000) because I spent all my time telling my patients how much they should exercise and watch their weight and all those things, so the wellness center kind of helped everybody do that.”

Hoff explained he was stepping away from the center because he “no longer (wants) to be managing a business.”

“Hopefully, it will be busier and better than ever,” said Hoff of the center.

Rochester Mayor Trent Odell also spoke during the ceremony.

“I certainly want to thank Dr. Hoff for his generous gift to not only the community, but the

Court News

Circuit Court

The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Circuit Court, Judge Arthur Christopher Lee presiding: Complaints

Discover Bank v. Josie Gamble, Rochester, $8,854.98

21st Mortgage Corporation v. James Todd Jr., Rochester, and Leann Evans, Rochester, $24,276.03 Superior Court

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

Mariner Finance LLC v. Jorge Martinez, Akron, $1,781; Brian Love, Akron, $4,801.45

LVNV Funding LLC v. Sarah Back aka Sarah Walsh, Rochester, $1,630.13; William Wallace, Rochester, $783.99; Brooke Powgnas, Rochester, $812.69 Westlake Services, LLC dba Westlake Financial services v. William Creekmore, Rochester, and Madison Carpenter, Rochester, $6,446.70

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. v. Stacie Collins, Culver, $12,510.63

First National Bank of Omaha v. James Jackson, Rochester, $5,568.34 Traffic Violations

The following fines and levies were paid in Fulton County courts: Driving while suspended — Darrick Kirby, Kokomo, $164.50; Colton Hatter, Rochester, $164.50

town,” he said. “I had several calls from people outside Fulton County who came here who were wanting to keep it open.”

He said he was grateful longtime employee Susan Pyeatt is staying on to help with the center.

In addition to the city getting the building for free from Hoff, it and the county each contributed $50,000 to Hoff for the equipment.

Fulton County Commissioners’ President Bryan Lewis and Vice President Rick Ranstead were present for the ribbon cutting Thursday.

Lewis explained as the county and city both have equally invested in the wellness center, if the building were to ever be sold in the future, the two entities would equally divide the proceeds.

“We just thought it was a good idea to partner with the city,” added Lewis. “It will look good for grant opportunities down the road with the state because the city and the county are finally working together, so I’m just really happy with where we’re at with Mayor Odell.”

Lewis said he appreciated “Dr. Hoff for giving the city this opportunity and the people that use it a chance to stay here and keep going.”

Pyeatt said she will be the group fitness director, the title she had when the center first opened.

There are six other employees at the center, with Pyeatt looking

NEW OWNERSHIP The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce

for one more.

The center has a sauna, gym with various fitness machines and racquetball courts. Various classes, including yoga and Pilates, are offered.

Pyeatt said the center hopes to add a golf simulator and pickleball court in the future.

People must either be members to use the facility or purchase temporary passes. They must be 16 or older to use the gym, with 14-year-olds and 15-year-olds also allowed to use it if a parent is present.

Minors must have a guardian’s

signature to use the facility.

Pyeatt said people are asked to sign up for membership in person to fill out the proper forms and tour the building.

Hours are remaining the same, with the center open 5 a.m. to 9

Failure of occupant to use a safety belt — Deborah James, Indianapolis, $25 Learner’s permit violation — Erick Meza, Indianapolis, $164.50 Operating with expired plates — Nicholas Graber, Nappanee, $164; Danis Corcho Ruiz, Mishawaka, $164 Speeding — Jonas Damus, Lafayette, $175; Barry Adams, Plainfield, $154.50; Seth Engle, New Haven, $154.50; Michael Shea, Cassopolis, Mich., $154.50; Brianna Moseau-mares, Bangor, Mich., $154.50; Serge Kagabo, Indianapolis,$175; Mugiraneza Muhire, Kalamazoo, $175; Craig Burns, Merrillville, $154.50; Pouchena Lhermitus, Grand Rapids, Mich., $175; Javier Guerra Quijada, Fishers, $164.50; Bawi Sang, Indianapolis, $154.50; Kyran Legg, Greenwood, $154.50; Cole Minder, Macy, $154.50; Isabel Correa, Greentown, $164.50; Leron Monsanto, Orlando, Fla., $175; Danila Burnham, Indianapolis, $164.50; Dylan Kubida, Noblesville, $154.50; Yesenia Boyer, Noblesville, $154.50; Shelly Williamson, Greenwood, $154.50; Lincoln Mason, Florence Ky., $154.50; Sai Kumar Yekkaldevi, South Bend, $175;

Trey Mattix, Monticello, $154.50; Gwendolyn Hullinger, Michigan City, $154.50

Marriage

Licenses

The following couple has applied for a marriage license in the office of Fulton County Clerk of the Court: Stesiak-Watson Trey Stesiak, 23, Rochester, and Meghan Watson, 24, Argos.

Marriage

Dissolutions

The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in Fulton County courts: Apple — James Apple, Murfreeboro, Tenn., and Linda Apple, Kewanna. No minor children.

Conwell-Licona — Christopher Conwell, Culver, and Nirian Damary Escobar Licona, Culver. No minor children.

the parents of a son, Oliver James, born at 4:21 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12, at Woodlawn Health.

p.m. Monday through Thursday; 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday; and 7 a.m. to noon Saturday. The center will be open 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve and closed Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Oliver James Mollett Braxton and Kaylee Mollett are
He weighed 5 pounds, 3 ounces, and was 18 inches long.
had a ribbon cutting on Thursday, Dec. 19, to mark the Fulton County Wellness Center changing ownership from Dr. Ken Hoff to the city of Rochester. The Fulton County Council on Aging is to manage the center. Shown from left are Chamber Ambassador Terry Ward, Rochester City Council Member Mart Smith, Fulton County Commissioners’ President Bryan Lewis, the Council on Aging’s Lisa Byers, the Wellness Center’s Susan Pyeatt, Hoff, the Council on Aging’s Director Doug Beller, Rochester Mayor Trent Odell, City Council Member Amy Roe, Fulton County Commissioners’ Vice President Rick Ranstead and Chamber Ambassador Christian Singleton.
MEETING SANTA Riley Miller visited with Santa Claus at “Treasures for Kids” Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Fulton County Historical Society.
Photo provided by Steve Fishburn.

Updates and happenings around the area

Join “Second Seasons” chair exercises at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 26, at the Akron Public Library, 205 E. Rochester St., Akron. Gentle impact workouts, chair exercises and chair cardio. A signed waiver is required. For more information call 574-893-4113.

There will be a blood drive from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 27, at Woodlawn Health. Call (800) 733-7267 or visit RedCrossBlood. org to schedule an appointment.

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There will be a commissioner’s meeting at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31, in the commissioner’s room, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.

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appeals meeting is scheduled at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 23, in Akron Town Hall, 206 W. Rochester St., Akron.

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the Optimist pumpkin stand on Ninth Street. All donated items will be given to the homeless in Rochester.

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Fulton County Public Library, 320 W. Seventh St., Rochester, will have teen BINGO in meeting room at 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 27.

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The next recycling date for Joe’s Hope will be 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 28, at Fulton County Solid Waste District, 1452 N. Wetzel St., Rochester.

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Kewanna Union Township Public Library, 210 E. Main St., Kewanna, will have a board meeting at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 30.

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Fulton Branch Library, 7420 Liberty Ave., Rochester, will have a kid’s craft anytime during the hours of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 30.

Enjoy pajama day at the Aubbee Library, 7432 Main St., Leiters Ford, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Jan. 3. Wear your coziest pajamas and enjoy a cup of cocoa. Popcorn and movies will be served all day.

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A board of works meeting will be at 8:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 3, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.

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Sidewalk/tree board meeting will be at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.

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Light Up The Park is a drive-thru event held 7 p.m. to midnight through Jan. 4. A community-driven event featuring light up displays created by local businesses, organizations and residents. Vehicles must enter by the baseball diamond on 13th St., Rochester.

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Town of Akron board of zoning

Help be a part of United Ministries of Fulton County. United Ministries gives assistance to Fulton County residents in need, while keeping God’s purposes in mind. Donations may be mailed to P.O. Box 531, Rochester, IN 46975.

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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.

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Families Helping Families is a nonprofit organization 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 the Solid Rock Church, 913 Main St., Rochester. For more information, call Michelle Skiles (574) 835-8813.

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Warm blankets and sleeping bag donations can be donated at

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

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Helping Hands Store located at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 404 Jefferson St., Rochester, offers free items to those in need. The store is open from 11 a.m to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday or by appointment. It offers clothes, shoes, bedding, household goods and furniture. For more information or to set up an appointment after hours call (574) 223-6898.

Santa discusses new house, top gift requests, more

Text and Photos

Santa Claus is super busy this time of the year, but he does still have time to sit down with the press.

He graciously made time between visits with kids at his house at Rochester’s Centennial Park on Wednesday, Dec. 18, to be interviewed by The Shopping Guide News of Fulton County.

One of the things he discussed was regarding his new residence, built this year by Rochester High School students.

“This is awesome,” he said of the home. “They did a wonderful job.”

He added Rochester Community Schools’ art students may possibly decorate the interior walls in the future.

Santa decorated the inside of the house himself with pictures done by kids.

“Hopefully next year, I’ll have a cork board in here (to place them on),” he said.

Santa said he’d visited with several hundred kids this year. He estimated he saw about 200 when he arrived at the Rochester Downtown Partnership’s Holiday Stroll on Dec. 6 and at least 20 each time since then when he had open hours at his house several times a week.

He described the Christmas spirit in Rochester this year as “being really good.”

“It’s awesome,” Santa said of it. He noted top gifts kids have asked for include PlayStation gaming systems, Legos and Matchbox racetracks.

“Of course, Barbie,” he added. “Everybody loves Barbie, and the little ones want a baby doll with a bottle.”

Though she wasn’t able to make the trip with him this year,

Mrs. Claus is “doing fine,” he said.

“She’s back at the North Pole keeping track of the elves,” Santa said. “She’ll probably be here next year.”

He also shared about his reindeer. Some of them visited at the Holiday Stroll and the Akron Chamber of Commerce’s Open House on Dec. 15.

“Most of them are staying back at the North Pole, and they’re all ready and anxious to go,” said Santa.

He noted what keeps him going during the long hours of delivering gifts on Christmas Eve across the world is just focusing on the kids.

As for treats people can leave out for him, Santa said he prefers

sugar cookies with icing.

He said he isn’t particular about the type of icing.

“As long as it’s sweet, Santa’s happy,” Santa said.

He said he’s adjusting to the warmer climate while being down in Fulton County.

“I wish we had a lot more snow. It’s been a little warm down here from what I’m used to,” he said.

“I’m praying for snow on Christmas.”

“Everybody else is asking me for presents. I’m talking to God for snow,” Santa added.

He wished people “a Merry Christmas.”

“I’m hoping the kids are all happy with what I deliver,” Santa said.

VISIT WITH SANTA Kynedi Ogle, left, poses with Santa at his home in Rochester on Wednesday, Dec. 18.

Valley Early Learning Academy receives license

After two years of serving the children of Tippecanoe Valley School Corp. employees, the Valley Early Learning Academy may now oversee kids from the public.

At its regular meeting on Monday, Dec. 16, at Mentone Elementary School, the TVSC Board heard from VELA Coordinator Courtney Kindig and VELA Director and TVSC Director of Special Services Meagan Wilks that VELA just became licensed.

According to information from a TVSC press release, people may enroll their children at the day care center, located at Mentone Elementary, starting Monday, Jan. 6, for the upcoming school year.

The center is open to children ages 6 weeks to 3 years by Aug. 1, 2025. Kids will be divided into two rooms: 6 weeks to 16 months and 17 months to 3 years.

“We have 18 spots and only seven filled right now,” noted Kindig. She added parents could utilize state Child Care and Development Fund vouchers for their kids to attend the child

care facility.

The center uses High Scope curriculum, which the TVSC release states “is a play-based, child-centered program grounded in research, encouraging children to explore, interact, and exercise their imagination through purposeful play.”

Wilks noted VELA leaders had worked with LaunchPad, which helps promote child care in Kosciusko County.

“We’ve really worked with (LaunchPad Director) Sherry Searles right from the start to get things going,” said Wilks. “She’s very knowledgeable about child care and standards for early childhood, preschool, those kinds of things, and she’s been a huge help to us along with the Early Childhood Alliance.”

“On behalf of the board, I just want to say thank you very much for all the hard work you ladies have put in,” said TVSC Board President Adam Heckaman. “I mean, this is going to make a huge impact in our community, not just our school.”

People wishing to sign their kids up for the program or know more should email Kindig at kin-

digcou@tvsc.k12.in.us.

The board also accepted a $50,000 grant for VELA, which will be used for curriculum, equipment and more. TVSC also plans to expand its child care space in the future by putting in a facility combined with a new administration building near Tippecanoe Valley High School.

Administrative Salaries

At the meeting, the board also approved the following yearly administrative salaries: TVHS Principal Brandon Kresca, $95,400; Tippecanoe Valley Middle School Principal Kyle Wieland, $86,500; Mentone Principal Randy Dahms, $89,960; Akron Elementary School Principal Scott Sterk, $83,900; TVHS Assistant Principal Dayna Kolanowski $83,400; TVMS Assistant Principal Phelix Omondi, $83,600; TVSC Director of Special Services Meagan Wilks, $91,700; TVSC Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment Inga Omondi, $83,000; and TVHS Dean of Students Joe Luce, $86,500.

In other business, the board:

• Heard from TVHS National Honor Society President Chloe Haussmann and TVHS student

VELA GETS LICENSE At the Tippecanoe Valley School Board meeting on Monday, Dec. 16, are Valley Early Learning Academy Director Meagan Wilks, left, and Coordinator Courtney Kindig. VELA recently became licensed.

Photo by Leah Sander.

representatives Marisol Gonzalez and Jacob Scacco. They read letters from TVHS students thanking the board for doing renovations at the high school, which have improved student programs.

• Approved the hiring of TVHS pool manager Deanna Roe, auditorium manager Kevin Lipsey and part-time custodian Loyd Morgann; TVMS Administrative Assistant Stacey McGriff; Mentone special education instructional assistant Christy Evans; and Akron instructional assistant Shelby French.

• Accepted the resignations of TVHS special education instructional assistant Jennifer Hallstrom

and student custodians Kevin Mar and Hugo Lopez.

• Accepted $100 to Bib’s Billford from an anonymous donor in memory of Mike Hoyt and in recognition of Diana Hoyt. Bib’s Billfold’s funds pay for Valley teacher grants and for students in need.

• Accepted $100 from an anonymous donor to the student assistance fund at Akron Elementary and $500 from an anonymous donor to Burket Educational Center for its annual Thanksgiving dinner.

The board’s next meeting is 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 13, a week earlier than usual, at Burket.

DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE

Drive sober and safely this holiday season

As the holiday season rapidly approaches, it is important to remember the significance of sober and safe driving. Do not ruin you and your family’s holly jolly season by drinking and driving.

In Indiana, driving while intoxicated is punishable by law, with repercussions such as incarceration, large fines, severe injury and even death.

According to research by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drinking and driving kills about 32 people a day in the United States — this is one death every 45 minutes.

Impaired drivers not only put themselves and others at risk, they also take a significant amount of time and resources from law enforcement.

In 2023, the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute and local enforcement increased efforts to promote and support high-visibility enforcement in the form of

sobriety checkpoints, sign boards and patrol car signage.

According to research conducted by the Center for Disease Control, sobriety checkpoints reduce fatalities, injury accidents and property damage accidents by around 20%.

The legal limit of blood alcohol content is 0.08%, at which point one may experience poor muscle coordination and judgment, self control, reasoning and memory are impaired.

Young people are the most atrisk for drunk driving. NHTSA data shows drivers between the ages of 21-24 account for nearly 30% of all fatal alcohol-impaired crashes, followed closely by 25 to 34 year olds.

Driving drunk affects one’s ability to drive because concentration becomes difficult, information processing times lengthen, speed control worsens, perception is compromised and some experi-

ence short-term memory loss.

Drunk driving laws have changed significantly through the years; some states have taken the initiative in adding their own specifications in addition to the federal traffic laws.

Impairment offenses can be classified as either misdemeanors or felonies. Depending on the classification, the driver could be ordered to pay large fines, lose their license or be jailed. A firsttime offense can cost the driver upward of $10,000 in fines and legal fees. If the driver is a habitual offender, the driver typically faces jail time and permanent license revocation. The consequences become much more severe if injuries or fatalities occur.

Your car insurance rates after a DUI or DWI will skyrocket. Generally, after receiving a DUI or DWI on your record, car insurance companies will assess you as a “high-risk driver” and

will increase premiums to cover the increased risk. For example, according to BankRate, post-DUI car insurance rates can increase anywhere from $800 to $3,000 and above.

To avoid drunk driving, have a plan set in place before a beer or cocktail even touches your lips. There are plenty of ways to avoid drunk driving, such as assigning a designated driver, using a taxi or ride share app or calling a sober friend or family member for a ride home.

If you are hosting a gathering and someone does insist on driving home under the influence, the best course of action is to report them. Reporting impaired driving saves lives.

Drivers are encouraged to report drivers exhibiting signs of impaired or unsafe driving. Examples of impaired driving include making wide turns, weaving, swerving, drifting, riding the

center lane, driving slow, braking erratically, stopping without cause, responding slowly to traffic signals and turning abruptly.

If you notice a drunk or impaired driver on the road, make note of their license plate number, vehicle make, vehicle model, vehicle color and location. To report, safely pull over, make a call to 911 and tell the dispatcher the vehicle information.

Drunk driving is not worth the risk it brings. It’s not worth the emotional stress, financial hardship, future job insecurity, inability to obtain a driver’s license or the possibility of severe injury or death.

Most people celebrate the holiday season by visiting with loved ones. Do not put a damper on someone’s holiday season by harming yourself or others by driving impaired. Drive sober — for your safety and the safety of others who share the road.

Rochester winter sports

Horn, Beck reach 100 career wins

Wrestling Junior stalwarts in their third year on the Rochester wrestling team, both Layne Horn (132) and Brant Beck (165) each earned their 100th career wins in a 5127 loss to visiting Warsaw at the RHS gym Wednesday.

But while there was time to celebrate each of their accomplishments, there was also looking ahead to the future.

Beck revealed after the dual that he would be moving down from 165 to 157 for the Rochester John McKee Memorial Invitational Saturday and that he would stay at that weight class for the rest of the season.

Beck, who is 18-0 on the season after a 21-6 technical fall in 1:32 over Zander Moore, said he weighed 159 Wednesday. He finished third at state at 165 last year.

IndianaMat.com ranked Beck No. 4 at 165 this season, but when made aware that he would be moving down, IndianaMat put him at No. 1 at 157 in its new rankings that came out later Wednesday night.

“I’m going down to 157,” Beck

said. “100 percent. I’ll be wrestling at 157 at the McKee. It’s been a cut, but I can get there.”

Beck said he had been told he was getting near 100 wins.

“I looked at it before the Elkhart tournament (the Jim Nicholson Invitational) Saturday, and I knew I was pretty close, so I would figure this would be the dual I did that,” Beck said.

Beck said increasing the value of a takedown from two points to three has affected his strategy. Now he tries to get tech falls in the first period. Known for his energetic, swarming style, he credited breathing exercises for his success.

“We do yoga as a team,” Beck said. “It helps a lot. It makes us more flexible with our breathing technique, stuff like that.”

Horn, like Beck, is 18-0 on the season. He overwhelmed K.C. Smith in 42 seconds.

“Honestly, I feel a lot better,” Horn said when asked about the move from 126 last year to 132 this year. “I feel a lot stronger and faster than I did at 126.”

Horn also said that the increase in points for a takedown from two to three has affected his wrestling.

“Takedowns are everything this year,” Horn said. “You get three or four takedowns a match basically. A takedown to a turn, then basically you’re up seven points by that point.”

Horn was coming off a 5-0 run

at the Elkhart. He had four first period falls before Penn’s Ryann Schmidtendorff went the distance before losing a 7-0 decision.

All five of Beck’s wins at Elkhart were by tech fall, and

none of those matches reached the third period.

“You’ll find that with every successful wrestler,” Rochester coach Tristan Wilson said. “They go out there aggressive, and they’re ready to battle. They both are. They know what they want to go to. They know what their number one takedown is, and they know what they’re going to do when they get on top.”

While the boys were wrestling Warsaw, the Rochester girls were involved in a three-way dual with Warsaw and John Glenn on the other mat in the gym.

Rochester went 1-1, losing to Warsaw 42-18 before beating John Glenn.

Lexi Haughs (145) won by fall against John Glenn in a match that she had been trailing.

“Lexi was a really nice performance,” Wilson said. “Elise wrestled well. I think that overall, none of the battles that they have is wrestling-wise. I think it’s all attitude. This is a very tough sport, and it’s very weird, and it brings weird things out of you because you’re the only one doing things. I think they’re all just still trying to deal with some of that. There’s a lot of pressure when you walk out in front of everyone. It’s a lot of pressure when it’s a home meet. And I never feel like our girls wrestle their best at home meets.”

Girls basketball

The Rochester girls basketball

team might not be sick of basketball, but they are sick and might be able to use a 15-day break before their next game. A happy memory will linger by the time they return to the court following a 48-33 road Three Rivers Conference win over Northwestern Thursday, Dec 19.

Ella McCarter, one of the players battling illness, scored a game-high 19 points and pulled down 12 rebounds for a double-double, and Rylee Clevenger added 12, including nine in the fourth quarter.

Aubrey Wilson had all seven of her points as part of an 18-2 first-quarter run that put the Lady Zs (10-3 overall, 4-1 TRC) ahead for good.

They led 30-16 at halftime and augmented the lead to 18 in the third quarter, and the lead stayed in double figures the rest of the way.

Berkley Wray scored 14, and Anna Bishir had 12 for Northwestern (3-8, 0-4).

Northwestern went on a 7-0 run in the fourth quarter and had the deficit down to 35-25 on two Wray free throws with 6:17 left.

But Clevenger picked the pocket of Brooklynn Conwell and drove to the other end for a scoop layup. A Clevenger 3-pointer from the right wing got the lead back to 40-26 and stanched the Northwestern momentum.

New Year, new you: Starting a fitness routine as a resolution

As the New Year rolls in, many people are setting resolutions to get healthier, with starting a new exercise routine at the top of the list. Whether it’s shedding a few pounds, building strength or improving overall health, committing to a fitness goal is a great way to kick off 2025. However, like any big change, starting an exercise routine requires planning, patience, and consistency to ensure long-term success.

Take It One Step at a Time

Start your fitness journey by setting realistic, achievable goals. Jumping into intense workouts

too quickly can lead to burnout, injury or frustration. Instead, begin with manageable exercises that are low impact and easily tolerated. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as you build stamina and strength. Aim for about 30 minutes of activity three to five times a week. Make It Fun and Find Your Jam

Sticking to your exercise routine is easier when it’s enjoyable. Try different types of activities to discover what excites you, whether it’s yoga, dancing, weightlifting, or team sports. Patients often ask me what the best exercise routine is. My answer is whatev-

er exercise you enjoy doing most. Stay Consistent, Patient and Realistic Consistency is the key to longterm success. Stay committed to your routine, even on days when motivation is low. Set small, attainable goals along the way to keep yourself on track and celebrate each achievement. Keep in mind that fitness is a journey, not a race. Be kind to yourself and remember that progress takes time. It’s also important to listen to your body and adjust your routine when necessary. If you’re feeling fatigued, don’t hesitate to take a rest day. Overworking your body can lead to injury and burnout, so balancing exercise with proper

rest and recovery is essential. Get Support and Stay Accountable

Having support can make a big difference in sticking to your fitness goals. Whether it’s consulting a fitness professional to ensure your form is correct, joining a workout group, or sharing your progress with friends or family, accountability helps you stay focused. Apps or fitness trackers also offer tracking tools that can help you monitor progress and keep you motivated throughout the year. Starting an exercise routine as a New Year’s resolution is an empowering step toward a healthier you. Remember to pace yourself, stay consistent and have fun. You’ll achieve your fitness goals but also develop a lifestyle of health and well-being that lasts long after the first few weeks of January. Make 2025 the year you invest in your fitness.

BRANT BECK
LAYNE HORN
AMY RUPLEY PT, DPT, ATC/L

Rochester receives Indiana Humanities grant

Dozens of cultural institutions, libraries, universities and other nonprofit organizations in nearly 60 communities across the state received grants from Indiana Humanities to provide

public humanities programs this year.

Rochester was among the area communities to receive a grant. Projects supported by Indiana

Humanities funding include an oral history training, an exhibition on the Potawatomi people of northwest Indiana, a celebration of Japanese language and culture, a Civil War festi-

val, documentaries on Indiana’s Latino heritage and more.

“Indiana Humanities is committed to ensuring that all Hoosiers benefit from cultural programming,” said George Hanlin, director of grants at Indiana Humanities. “I’m pleased that we’ve awarded funds to so many groups across the state and that we’ve been able to serve such a diverse group of people.”

Indiana Humanities awarded 44 Action Grants, 51 Advancing Racial Equity Collection Development Grants, 18 Historic Preservation Education Grants, eight INcommon Grants, 29 One State/One Story Community Read Grants, one PreservINg Main Street Grant, and five Wilma Gibbs

Moore Fellowships totaling approximately $317,000.

Indiana Humanities will offer approximately $300,000 in grants in 2025, including funds that will enhance accessibility efforts for public programs, and help Hoosiers commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.

The nonprofit plans to host webinars about its offerings and anticipates holding in-person grant workshops around the state to provide additional information about the grant guidelines and application instructions.

For more information about Indiana Humanities’ grants, contact George Hanlin, director of grants, at ghanlin@indianahumanities.org.

Universal Service Charge (FUSC)

Helt Realty of Rochester is the December Fulton County Chamber Member of the Month.

Dave Helt founded the company in 1979, and Justin Helt

joined the company in 1998. In 2024, Ryan Chudzynski and Joe Bucinski joined the listing and sales team.

Helt Realty offers traditional

sales, residential appraisals and farm appraisals. It’s located at 1401 Main St., Rochester.

People may call the business at (574) 223-2209.

Effective January 1, 2025, 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 35.8% to 36.3%. The FUSC is calculated in accordance with FCC rules by applying the new contribution factor of 36.3% (0.363) to the charges for interstate services. The federal universal service fund helps to ensure access to affordable communications services in hardto-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 email: fccinfo@fcc.gov.

Effective January 1, 2025, 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 35.8% to 36.3%. The FUSC is calculated in accordance with FCC rules by applying the new contribution factor of 36.3% (0.363) 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 email: fccinfo@fcc.gov.

Fulton County Chamber Member
Month. Shown from left
Justin Helt, Dave Helt, Joe Bucinski, Joe Murphy, Amber Basham, Randy Wynn, Terry Ward, Todd Zartman and Jillian Smith. Photo provided by the Fulton County Chamber of Commerce.

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Students

Text and Photos

Just in time for Christmas dinners, Rochester Middle School students rehearsed how to politely eat with others.

RMS’ annual Etiquette Luncheon was on Thursday, Dec. 19.

All approximately 355 kids in grades 5-7 ate lunch with Rochester Community Schools’ staff and community members in three shifts. They dressed up for the luncheon and practiced manners while eating and carrying on conversations.

Some sixth graders and National Junior Honor Society seventh graders helped serve the meal.

RMS Principal Cassie Mur-

phy said the school’s been having the event since before she started working at RMS 12 years ago.

“It’s really good for kids that don’t often or ever sit down to a family meal,” she said.

Murphy said students received an etiquette lesson ahead of time to prepare them for the luncheon. The

school went over “how to set the table and how to do family-style passing around the food (and) manners during dinner, no phone, no elbows on the table.”

“We give them an opportunity to dress nice, look nice, have the environment nice,” said Murphy. “Everyone looks forward to it. They always want pictures around all the decorations.”

Murphy said school staff likes “seeing people from the community come in and get to see the kids and talk to the kids.”

“We all work together and make it happen for the kids. That’s what it’s all about,” she said.

New Year’s Day Consignment Auction

9 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 1. Located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Tractors, farm, hay, and livestock equipment, vehicles, trailers, tools. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction. com.

5TH GRADE LUNCH Getting ready to eat during the 5th grade’s turn during the Rochester Middle School Etiquette Luncheon on Thursday, Dec. 19, in the front from left are Luke Johnson, Wyatt Beck, Ryker Fishburn and RMS Guidance Counselor Nate Kreamer. In the back are Griffin McKee, Carson Banks, Vince McKee and Landyn Furnivall.
CLEANING UP Kinlee McKee helps clean up after the sixth grade section of the Rochester Middle School Etiquette Luncheon on Thursday, Dec. 19.
ETIQUETTE LUNCHEON Rochester Middle School’s annual Etiquette Luncheon was on Thursday, Dec. 19. Students practiced their manners while dining with Rochester Community Schools’ staff and community members.
FESTIVE ATTIRE Seventh grader Warner DuBois donned a festive blazer for the Rochester Middle School Etiquette Luncheon on Thursday, Dec. 19.
SETTING THE TABLE Kaylynn Miller sets the table before the sixth grade portion of the Rochester Middle School Etiquette Luncheon on Thursday, Dec. 19.
MOVIE WITH GRINCH — Brynlee Baker, left, and Oliver Baker enjoyed the movie “The Grinch” at the Times Theater, Rochester, Saturday, Dec. 14. Photo by Lori Carr.

Matthew Abbett

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HAPPY NEW YEAR

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