ry by E.B. White in February as part of One School, One Book. It’s the first time the elementary has done the program from national nonprofit Read to Them.
One School, One Book was made possible at Caston thanks
to funding from the Cass County Community Foundation.
Caston School Corp. Curriculum Director Shelly Sarver, who worked with the foundation to bring One School, One Book to the elementary, said she created a committee of teachers and parents to develop the program for Caston.
“Some of our parents that I involved ... had ... experience (with One School, One Book) at another school,” she said.
Sarver added she’d known about One School, One Book prior, but had trouble securing funding for it previously.
A “huge donor” allowed the program to come to Caston as well as a few other Cass County elementary schools, said Sarver. She said that donor wants to keep the program going in Cass County, and she hopes Caston can do it again in the 2025-26 school year.
Sarver said the elementary had several requirements to meet for One School, One Book, including having certain activities and tasks in school and a parent night.
of “Charlotte’s Web” on Monday, Feb. 3. Photo provided by the
The latter is occurring in the form of a school carnival from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28. Sarver said the event will have a “fair-like” theme to go with the book’s subject.
“Charlotte’s Web” was chosen
Continued on page 5
HIS OWN BOOK Caston Elementary School second grader
Aiden Barton holds up his copy
Caston School Corp.
STORYTIME Caston Elementary School Principal Jennifer Lukens, in the upper left corner, reads from “Charlotte’s Web” at an assembly on Monday, Feb. 3, as part of One School, One Book. Photo provided by the Caston School Corp.
ONE SCHOOL, ONE BOOK During February, all Caston Elementary School students and staff are reading “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White as part of the program One School, One Book.
The book was introduced during a special assembly on Monday, Feb. 3. Photo provided by the Caston School Corp.
Hawley listens to the preferences of patrons and staff members
By LAURIE LECHLITNER Staff Writer
“I enjoy seeing our patrons and getting to talk to them,” stated Janet Hawley, Akron. “I get a better feel for who we’re serving when I know the people — their likes and dislikes. My office is not set apart from the rest of the staff, like many directors’ offices are, so I have the opportunity to hear what the staff and the people are saying and to listen to their comments or concerns.
“I like getting to know our patrons and the people working with me at the library. I enjoy calling the patrons by name and
asking about their families. I guess you could call me a people person.”
Hawley is the director of Akron Carnegie Public Library. With a smile she remarked, “I practically grew up in this library. My mother (Gloria Bowen) worked here for 36 years as a library assistant. I often went to the library after school because my dad was a farmer and was often in the fields.
I remember having friends with me and playing in the basement. It was my ‘home away from home.’ ”
Hawley graduated from Tippecanoe Valley High School and Manchester University and
WATER SOFTENER RENTALS
pursued a job in radio. “I met my husband at a radio station, and we were married in 1984.”
She started working at the Akron Public Library part time in 1988 as a library assistant. “Back then, I was also homeschooling our three children.”
In 2011 Hawley took over as director. “That was after Velma Bright retired. Velma worked at the library for a total of 69 years!”
She continued, “I enjoy the variety each day brings on the job. Working in a small library, I tend to wear many hats, as do all of us. Our job descriptions may change from day to day. One day I’m weeding shelves for outdated books, and the next day I’m working on publicity on our Facebook page and our website. Some days I’m working on payroll or paying bills, and the next day I’m ordering new books or other materials. Right now, I’m working on finishing our capital asset depreciation records for our annual state board of accounts report.”
Always a challenge for Hawley is continually trying to meet the needs of the public in the best way possible. “A library cannot
Inspired Living
remain stagnant. It needs to continually evolve and change to better serve the community in which we live.
“Programming is so vital to public libraries. It’s not enough to just offer books and movies in all their various formats. We also need to offer activities and programs that meet a need or provide a service for people of all ages. We take pride in the amount of programming that our small library provides for the community. Our library board and staff are just about the best group of individuals that I can ask for, and we all
work together extremely well.” Hawley and her husband Mark have been married for over 40 years. They have three grown children: Matt, Rachel, and Michaela.
Although she has little time for hobbies, through the years she’s enjoyed painting, crocheting, wreath making and knitting. “I sang in a Southern Gospel quartet ‘By Grace’ with my two daughters and my niece for several years. I currently serve at Omega Church as treasurer and music director. I also video tape the church services.”
Valley announces date for kindergarten roundup
The Tippecanoe Valley School Corp. announces its kindergarten roundup for the 2025-26 school year.
Families of incoming kindergarten students are invited to attend this event as the corporation prepares to welcome the Class of 2038. Children must be five years old on or by Oct. 1.
The roundup is 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 25, at Akron Elementary School, 202 E. Rural St., and Mentone Elementary School, 307 E. Jackson St.
At the roundup, families will have the opportunity to: meet teachers and staff; explore classrooms; learn about enrollment requirements; and gain insight into the Viking Family experience.
Parents should bring the follow-
ing: Birth certificates; vaccination records; and a valid email address.
For families unable to attend the roundup, please contact the Akron office at (574) 598-2367 or the Mentone office at (574) 5982590 before March 25 to discuss alternative enrollment arrangements.
The kindergarten registration program is expected to last approximately one hour. Parents and guardians are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to meet teachers and staff, tour the school, learn about the kindergarten program and have their questions answered.
For further details, please visit the official TVSC channels or contact Akron or Mentone Elementary directly.
JANET HAWLEY
Impact of our gut health on autoimmune disease
By KELSEY HECKAMAN, FNP
Editor’s Note: Kelsey Heckaman is on the medical staff at Woodlawn Health.
Unfortunately, autoimmune diseases are on the rise, affecting approximately 8% of Americans today. Some studies show these rates are rising by approximately 3-10% annually. This trend is alarming; unfortunately, we are left without clear answers as to why there is an increase. For those suffering from autoimmune diseases, the impact can be devastating from a physical, emotional and financial aspect. Many treatments for autoimmune diseases can be costly and come with significant side effects and/or risks. There is more and more emerging evidence about the health and diversity of the gut microbiome and the role it plays in maintaining the health of our immune system.
Many patients are unaware that 70-80% of our immune cells are within the gut. Unfortunately, the human body, specifically the gut, is hit with toxins daily. The food in our standard American diet has many toxins that can affect the health of our gut and influence our microbiome. In addition to food, environmental toxins, stress, medications, infections and illnesses all can con-
KELSEY HECKAMAN, FNP
tribute to injury of the gut lining and microbiome, which then influences our immune system. Injury to the gut through these potential insults can contribute to intestinal permeability (aka “leaky gut”). Intestinal permeability is where the tight junctions between each cell of the intestinal lining become damaged, which can then cause contents and proteins within our intestine to leak into the body. The proteins in our foods, such as gluten, casein (dairy) and soy, just to name a few, can be potential triggers. This then alerts our immune system that there is a foreign invader, which causes our immune system to go into over-
Let’s Study The Bible —
drive and become dysfunctional, thus attacking our body instead of protecting our body. This contributes to inflammation and the general symptoms associated with inflammation (fatigue, joint pains, muscle pains, headaches, skin rashes, brain fog).
This information can feel daunting and overwhelming and leaves you asking where to start when it comes to healing your immune system. The first place to start with restoring your immune system and improving your health is by working on improving the health of your gut. Food is the most influential factor affecting the health of the gut. Looking into a low-inflammatory diet, such as a Paleo-style diet or an elimination diet, removes many of the problematic food groups that can trigger the immune system.
This allows your body to have a chance to heal and repair, which it is designed by nature to do. These diets focus on whole foods. Whole food is a food that is in its natural state and has not been processed or had ingredients added to it. Examples of whole foods are meats, fruit, vegetables, nuts/ seeds and eggs. You can work with your provider, dietitians and health coaches to guide you on diet and lifestyle changes to help you work toward optimal health.
What should we do with the Bible?
(Read Psalm 119:1-33)
“Teach me, O Lord, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end” (Psalm 119:33).
March
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By THE REV. RON PURKEY
The Bible points us to the Lord Jesus Christ: He is the living word about whom the written word speaks. Notice the eight basic titles of the Bible in the first nine verses of the psalm: law of the Lord, testimonies, ways, precepts, statutes, commandments, judgments and word. These are repeated many times throughout the psalm.
First, love it (Psalm 119: 97, 159). The way you treat your Bible is the way you treat Christ. To love him is to love his word. The word is a delight (verses 16, 24, 16, 35, 47, 70) and not a disappointment; we rejoice to read it (verses 14, 162).
Second, prize it (Psalm 119:72, 128). To hold the Bible in high esteem is the mark of a true Christian. It should be more precious to us than any earthly treasure.
Third, study it (Psalm 119:7, 12, 18, 26-27). At least 12 times the psalmist prays, “Teach me.”
The Christian who daily studies his Bible will be blessed of God. Bible study is not always easy, for it takes the “whole heart” (verses 2, 10, 34, 69, 145).
Fourth, memorize it (Psalm 119: 11). “The best Book, in the
best place, for the best purpose!” is the way Pastor Campbell Morgan explained this verse. All ages need to memorize the word, not children and young people alone. Joshua was not a youth when God commanded him to memorize the law (Joshua 1:8). Jesus was able to quote Scripture when he faced Satan in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11).
Fifth, meditate on it (Psalm 119:15, 23, 48, 78, 97, 99, 148).
Meditation is to the soul what digestion is to the body. To meditate means to “turn over” God’s word in the mind and heart, to examine it, to compare Scripture with Scripture, to “feed on” its wonderful truths. In this day of noise, danger and confusion, such meditation is rare but is so needful. Meditation is impossible without memorization.
Sixth, trust it (Psalm 119: 42). We trust the Bible about ev-
erything, because it is right about everything (verse 128). It is true and can be trusted wholly. To argue with the Bible is to argue with God. We test every other book by what God says in his word.
Seventh, obey it (Psalm 119: 1-8). To keep the word is to obey it, to walk in its commandments. Satan knows the word, but he cannot obey it. If we know God’s truth and fail to obey it, we are only fooling ourselves.
Eighth, declare it (Psalm 119:13, 26). As we obey, we should also witness to others about the word and tell them what the Lord has done for us.
Thought to remember: “The book of the month, The book of the year, The book of the ages — It’s the Bible.”
Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines free at rcpbibleoutlines. com. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.
O bituaries
Jason W. Clinger
Rochester Cement Products Employee
Jason W. Clinger, 46, Rochester, passed away after a sudden illness at Woodlawn Hospital shortly after admission on Monday, Feb. 17, 2025.
Born in Rochester on Oct. 5, 1978, Jason William Clinger was a son of George and Carolyn Howe Clinger. Growing up he shared his childhood as the youngest of five children with two sisters and two brothers. In 1997, he graduated from Rochester High School.
JASON W. CLINGER
With a strong work ethic, Jason worked at Rochester Cement Products for over two decades of his life. He loved listening to country music and, when he was growing up, he loved to play the song “Elvira.” A man with a huge heart, he loved and adored his nieces and nephews. They enjoyed terrorizing him and he proudly wore the title of Uncle Jason.
He had a great sense of humor, and his hearty laugh could be heard two rooms away. Jason’s favorite tractor was built by Farm-all. Nala and Maizy were his devoted canines who followed him wherever he went. Jason will be remembered as a dear son, loyal brother and a very cool and amazing uncle full of adventure. He was a treasured friend who was always there for all who needed help.
Left to cherish Jason’s memory are his mother, Carolyn Clinger; companion, Chris Hiner, both of Rochester; siblings, Tina (Mark) Cunningham of Plymouth, Melinda Clinger of Rochester, Michael (Emily) Clinger of Bremen and Jerry Clinger of Rochester; nieces and nephews, Phillip Beattie (Brigid), Kristi Austin, Marcus Hancock, Austin Clinger, Kayla Mcvicar (Allen), Elizabeth Clinger, Isabelle Clinger, Hannah Clinger and Ares Clinger; and great-nieces and nephews, A.J. Austin, Xavier Austin, Adaline McVicar, Vinnie Beattie, Oliver McVicar, Easton Bahr and Savannah Bahr.
Preceding Jason in death are his father, George Clinger, and all of his grandparents.
A celebration of the life of Jason W. Clinger was held at noon Monday, Feb. 24, at Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 W. 18th St., Rochester. Pastor Thad Stewart officiated. His family met with friends from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. A private family burial took place in the Falls Creek Cemetery, Wabash.
Preferred memorials may be made to his family.
Online expressions of sympathy may be made to Dale’s family at goodfamilyfh.com.
Lori McFarland Area Resident
Lori McFarland, 45, Rochester, passed away at 8:03 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025, at her residence.
She was born April 11, 1979, in Rochester, the daughter of Lowell and Evelyn (Swango) McFarland. Lori enjoyed her dogs and all the neighborhood cats as well as her family.
She is survived by her sisters, Virginia McFarland, Rochester, and Jean (Kent) Denny, Rochester; and brother, Arden (Debra) McFarland, Warsaw.
LORI
Preceding her in death were her parents; sisters, Lisa McFarland and Sandra Clark; and brother, Lee McFarland.
Graveside service were conducted at 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20, at Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rochester.
Arrangements by Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester. Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh.com.
Hold your memory
By RUSS DAVIDSON SR. Guest Writer
Your time has passed, we both know it won’t last. I know you are
above, I still have my memory of you. We all share a memory of someone we miss or love. May that person live in your heart, until you are called above.
Helen D. Horn A Native Of Warsaw
Helen D. Horn, 84, Rochester, passed away at 5:25 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025, at Life Care Center of Rochester.
On July 20, 1940, Helen Darlene Deaton was born in Warsaw to Rex and Edith (McFarren) Deaton. Growing up in Claypool, she shared her childhood with two sisters.
Helen and Jack L. Horn were married on Feb. 22, 1959. They shared 65 years of life’s adventures. Sadly, Jack passed away on March 14, 2024, from an extended illness. From their union came two children, Pamela and Jeffrey. The family tree continues to grow with the blessings of two more generations.
The Horn family made memorable trips, driving to California, seeing sights of many states. The trips were a great adventure for Pam and Jeff, often lasting three weeks.
Left to cherish the memories of Helen are her son, Jeffrey J. Horn of Rochester; her daughter, Pamela McCoy and husband Joseph of Lancaster, Ohio; four grandchildren, Bradley Horn and wife Michelle, Brandon Horn, Jesse McCoy and wife Sarah and Rachel McCoy; four great-grandchildren, Azalia Horn, Matthias Horn, Milo McCoy and Cooper McCoy; and a sister, Jonanna and her husband Michael of Greenville, S.C.
Preceding Helen in death are her parents; husband, Jack; and her sister, Pamela Deaton, who passed away at age 12.
A celebration of the life of Helen D. Horn will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, at the Church of Christ, 120 E. 5th St., Rochester. Pastor Jim Dillinger will officiate. Friends may visit with the family from noon until the time of the service at the church. Interment will be in Graceland Cemetery of Claypool.
Preferred memorials are to the Rochester Church Of Christ.
The Good Family Funeral Home of Rochester has been entrusted with the arrangements. Electronic expressions of sympathy may be made to her family at goodfamilyfh.com.
Elizabeth M. ‘Beth’ Clair
Elizabeth M. “Beth” Clair 71, Rochester, passed away at 10:15 a.m. Friday, Feb. 21, 2025, at her residence.
She was born on Oct. 17, 1953, in Rochester, the daughter of Arthur and Alice Morrill. On May 22, 1977, she married Michael Clair; who survives.
After graduating from high school, Beth received a full scholarship at Indiana University, South Bend, where she graduated with a degree in Macro and Micro Economics in 1975. In 1976, she became one of the first four women enrolled at the University of Notre Dame on a full scholarship for her doctorate degree in economics. Along with a doctorate degree, she also completed a master’s degree from Indiana University, South Bend.
Beth worked as an educator teaching Macro and Micro Economics at Indiana University, South Bend and at Indiana University, Kokomo. Later she taught at Ivy Tech, Kokomo and Rochester along with being the Academic Advisor in Rochester. She, along with her husband, coached girls’ basketball at Rochester Middle School from 1987-1998 as well as owning and operating the Rochester Sale Barn from 1981-1988. In her leisure time, she was an avid reader. She will be remembered as a loving wife, great friend, caring, supportive and wonderful advisor.
Survivors include her husband, Michael Clair, Rochester; brothers, Mike Morrill, Rensselaer and Richard Morrill, Denmark.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
A memorial visitation will take place from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, March 16, at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Fulton County Public Library or the Fulton County Animal Adoption and Education Center. Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh.com.
Mark Robert Moore
Mark Robert Moore, 58, Akron, died at 10:12 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025, at the VA Northern Indiana Health Care Center, Fort Wayne.
He was born on Feb. 15, 1967. On July 16, 2005, he married Newanna Scott; who survives Additional survivors are his children, Shanna Moore, Plymouth, John Moore and companion, Jill Stutzman, Mentone, Kaitlynd Heiden-Moore and companion, Caleb Lemler, Bourbon, Tatianna Scott and fiance Ray Herber, Chicago, Ill., Loren Gardner and companion, Grace Pope, Florida; one grandchild; his mother, Connie Moore, Akron; brothers, Chris (Deb) Moore, Akron; sisters, Sheryl (Scott) Bilby, Akron and Mona (Kevin) Waller, New Haven; sister-in-law, Paula Moore and companion Steve Thomas, Rochester; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his, Norman W. Moore Sr.; and two brothers, Ronald G. Moore and Norman Moore Jr.
Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, at Hartzler Funeral Home, 305 W. Rochester St., Akron, with Pastor Thad Stewart officiating.
Interment was in Akron Cemetery, with military honors performed by the U.S. Army and the Fulton County Honor Guard.
Donations can be made to his family at: gofund.me/b5e89fb9.
Online condolences can be shared with the family at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.
Indiana First Lady to raise money for Parton’s library program
By NIKI KELLY Indiana Capital Chronicle
After slashing a popular reading program from the budget, Gov. Mike Braun said he asked First Lady Maureen Braun to spearhead an initiative to keep Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Indiana.
The program gifts free, high quality, age-appropriate books to children from birth to age five on a monthly basis, regardless of family income.
Former Gov. Eric Holcomb included a statewide expansion of the program in his 2023 legislative agenda. The General Assembly
earmarked $6 million for the program in the state’s last biennial budget - $2 million in the first year and $4 million in the second - to ensure that all Hoosier kids qualify to receive free books.
But when Gov. Braun prepared his budget proposal in January he discontinued the funding as part of an overall effort to rein in state spending.
“I am honored to lead this work to help ensure our youngest Hoosiers have as much exposure as possible to books and learning,” said First Lady Maureen Braun. “Indiana has many strong community partners and I am confident we will collaborate on a solution that grows
children’s love of reading.”
Jeff Conyers, president of The Dollywood Foundation, said he appreciates Braun’s commitment to early childhood literacy.
“The Imagination Library brings the joy of reading to over 125,000 Hoosier children each month in all 92 counties across the state, and we are encouraged by Gov. and First Lady Braun’s support to ensure its future in Indiana. We look forward to working with the governor and first lady, state leaders, and local program partners to keep books in the hands of Indiana’s youngest learners and strengthen this foundation for a lifetime of success,” he said.
MARK ROBERT MOORE
HELEN D. HORN
Court News
Circuit Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Circuit Court, Judge Arthur Christopher Lee presiding: Complaints
Midland Credit Management v. Caroline Moore, Rochester, $2,709.08
Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC v. John Miller, Kewanna, $5,780.62 Superior Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Superior Court, Judge Gregory L. Heller presiding: Complaint
Credit Corp Solutions Inc. v. Christine Lehiy, Rochester, $1,146.04
LVNV Funding LLC v. Regina Fogelsanger, Rochester, $1,821.62; Jennifer Weglarz, Argos, $1,834.56; Larry Minix, Rochester, $17,613.99
Bluescope Recycling and Materials LLC v. Rochester Iron and Metal, Rochester, $139,491.30
Discover Bank, Columbus, Ohio v. Brandon Earnest, Rochester, $3,465
Kitch Acceptance Corporation v. Frederick Cleveland, Rochester, and Rhonda Cleveland, Rochester, $2,012.04; Robin Owens, Rochester, $6,731.38
Traffic Violations
The following fines and levies were paid in Fulton County courts:
No valid driver’s license, speeding — Zachary Magera, South Bend, $179.50
Operating with expired plates — Tyler Miller, Indianapolis, $164; Joshua Garrity, Bargersville, $164; Elizabeth Mckee-gliottone, Indianapolis, $164
Speeding — James Bonilla, Ocoee, Fla., $164.50; Zachary Hensley, Elkhart, $154.50; Pedro Gonzalez, Roswell, Ga., $164.50; Miranda Hufford, Monterey, $164.50; Emily Conrad, Laporte, $154.50; Nathan Saylor, Converse, $164.50; Sawyer Lehman, Indianapolis, $154.50; Dustin Kuminecz, South Bend, $154.50; Jon Hopkins, Indianapolis, $154.50; Tanya Edwards, South Bend, $175; Luis
Romo, Noblesville, $165; Scott Bradford, LaPorte, $164.50; Nicolas Gonzales, Menlo Park, Calif., $164.50; Mollie Nelson, Granger, $177; Jasone Rieman, Noblesville, $154.50; Sophia Burke, Walker Mich., $154.50; Richard Garrison III, Bedford, $154.50; Antonio Magallanes-ortiz, Lafayette, $164.50; Carson Elliott, Fishers, $154.50; Terri Zajicek, Cherston, $154.50; Elijah Schramm, Plymouth, $154.50; Danielle Capobianco, North Manchester, $159; Jeremiah Jones, South Bend, $175; Benamin Kegg, Batavia, Ohio, $154.50; William Mcenery, Grand Haven, Mich., $154.50; Isabella Salamon, South Lyon, Mich., $154.50; Douglas Berger, Indianapolis, $164.50; Mark Williams, Granger, $164.50; Lanny Cline, Rochester, $175; Matthew Bradley, Rochester, $154.50
Marriage Licenses
The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Fulton County Clerk of the Court: Wortley-Swango
Luke Wortley, 21, Rochester, and Elizabeth Swango, 22, Rochester. Dereski-Pionke
Aaron Dereski, 28, Rochester, and Kathryn Pionke, 29, Rochester. Speer-Carr
Wayne Speer, 33, Rochester, and Chaneigh Carr, 35, Rochester.
Marriage Dissolutions
The following couples has filed for marriage dissolutions in Fulton County courts: Buckner — Chad Buckner, Rochester, and Kayla Buckner, Rochester. With minor children.
Ramirez — Oscar Ramirez, Akron, and Staci Ramirez, Akron. With minor children.
Fuller — Ryne Fuller, Macy, and Patricia Fuller, Macy. With minor children.
Hiatt — Barry Hiatt, Rochester, and Jenny Hiatt, Rochester. No minor children.
Caston Elementary gets
Continued from page 1
by the Caston One School, One Book committee as its members remembered their own time reading it as kids, said Sarver.
“We felt it was a book our kids would connect with, and they have,” said Caston Elementary School Principal Jennifer Lukens. She read the first portion of the book at a special assembly on Monday, Feb. 3. All students and staff got copies of the book then.
Students are reading passages of the book each night at home with their parents, with kids then going over discussion guides and answering trivia questions on it in school. Trivia winners are receiving special T-shirts and tickets for the carnival.
The school has brought in tieins to the story, with staff working to decorate the school to match the
agricultural theme of “Charlotte’s Web.”
Classroom doors have been transformed into barn doors, with other decorations including a farm scene just outside the library. Caston Elementary School art teacher Emily Martin has also decorated her art supply cart like a tractor.
“Each day they are doing activities that would go along with (book characters) Wilbur or Charlotte,” said Sarver. “They’ve made some spider things (and) some muddy pigs.”
She said students also “did taste-testing of homemade pies” that the home economics class made for a county fair week. Students have also transformed daily video announcements into “barnyard news” segments, said Lukens.
Aside from the school activities,
kids were able to also see the movie version of “Charlotte’s Web” at a special showing at Mary Max Cinemas in Logansport.
Lukens said parent feedback to One School, One Book has been “positive.”
Sarver said students are also enjoying the program, with even some students who struggle with reading interested in the book.
“Teachers have shared that students are reading to one another,” said Lukens. “We’ve had bus drivers say that older students are reading to younger ones on the bus ride home.”
Sarver added kids are simply “talking about” the book.
“That is something that we would not have seen before without something like this, and just having that same connection has been key I think,” she said.
Morehouse hired to manage Akron Community Center
The directors of the Akron Community Center have hired a new building manager, Christina Morehouse, Silver Lake. Morehouse, married to David Morehouse, is a long-time resident of the area and is a graduate of Tippecanoe Valley High School. She has two children, daughter, Lyndsie and son, Robert. Morehouse is a grandmother of four. “Being a grandmother is one of life’s greatest gifts”, according to Morehouse.
She spends most of her free time volunteering. A member of Beaver Dam Community Church, she is the chairperson of Wheels On Fire Cancer Crusaders. The group raises money through food booths and other activities for local cancer patients. Every dollar raised is spent on cancer patients in Fulton and
Kosciusko County. She is also a member of the education committee, teaching Sunday School and planning and working VBS.
Morehouse is also a member of the Echoes of the Past, an antique tractor club, focused on agri-history. She manages all the public relations and marketing for the club and manages sponsorships. Morehouse helped to implement a scholarship program given by the Echoes of the Past to a deserving graduating senior who is a member of an FFA program or 4-H chapter. If she is not taking pictures, you can find her helping throughout the events hosted by the antique tractor club.
As a volunteer for Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana, Morehouse can connect with the local
cancer patients she works so hard to raise funds for. She can be found behind the reception desk one day
Fulton County Chamber announces leadership transition
The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce announces the resignation of Jillian Smith as executive director, effective March 14.
Since 2018, Smith has been dedicated to fostering business growth, strengthening community partnerships and advancing the chamber’s mission.
“It has been an incredible honor to serve our members and the Fulton County community,” said Smith. “I am proud of what we have accomplished together and
confident that the chamber will continue to thrive.”
The chamber board of directors, led by President Chuck Gibbons, is committed to ensuring a seamless transition.
“While we are sad to see Jillian go, we are grateful for her leadership and dedication,” said Gibbons. “The chamber remains strong and will continue to serve as a vital resource for businesses and the community.”
Operations will continue as usu-
al, with chamber programs, events and initiatives moving forward as planned. The board of directors will announce next steps for leadership in the coming weeks.
For questions or additional information, please contact Gibbons at (574) 653-1705 or cgibbons@ rochestermetals.com.
In a Facebook post, the Northern Indiana Community Foundation announced Smith has taken a job as the organization’s new marketing associate.
a week greeting patients and assisting them with their needs.
Riverside Christian School in Lost Creek, Ky., is another volunteer effort. The school, which has been a victim of the Kentucky floods three times in the last four years, is close to her heart. The connection to Kentucky, by way of her family, made the decision to join the fundraising committee easy. The school is in desperate need of funding to maintain the building, build staff housing and meet the payroll for the teachers.
Morehouse is looking forward to her new role as building manager. “I want to do my part to make each rental a happy occasion and celebration. To see the joy of soon to be brides, expectant mothers, graduates, and more is a blessing that I will not take for granted.”
To schedule a tour of the Akron Community Center, or to check pricing and availability, contact Morehouse at (574) 598-2112, send an email to akronccinfo@gmail. com or message her on the Akron Community Center Facebook page.
Local students named to dean’s list
The following local students were recently named to the dean’s list of their respective colleges/universities:
Huntington University
Macy — Connor Bahney
Manchester University Akron — Chesnee Miller, Benton Nellans, Melissa Ramirez, Noelia Ruiz-Quintana Rochester — Garrett Armstrong, Gabriel Armstrong, Alexia Hensley, Alexandra Kouskousakis, Megan Lewis, Samuel Rohr, Gurlal Singh
FARM SCENE Caston Elementary School has been decorated to match the theme of “Charlotte’s Web,” with this farm scene outside the library. Photo by Leah Sander.
CHRISTINA MOREHOUSE
BZA meeting will be at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Catch Kids Club is from 4-5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, at Kewanna Public Library, 210 E. Main St., Kewanna.
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Tech Time with Zak will be from noon to 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, at Fulton County Public Library, 320 W. Seventh St., Rochester. Get help with your tech problems. One on one sessions may be scheduled through Zak Schoff at (574) 223-1014.
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There will be a blood drive from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, at Woodlawn Hospital, classrooms A and B. Call (800) 733-7267 or visit RedCrossBlood.org to schedule an appointment.
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All-you-can-eat fish and chicken fry will be from 3:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday, March. 1, at the Fulton County Historical Society, US 21 and CR 375N, Rochester. Tickets are available at the door, from a member or at the museum. For more information
call (574) 223-4436.
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Water board meeting will be at 5 p.m. Monday, March 3, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Commissioner’s meeting will be at 9 a.m. Monday, March 3, in the Fulton County Annex Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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A sidewalk/tree meeting will meet at 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 4, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Board of works meeting will be at 8:30 a.m. Friday, March 7, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Aubbeenaubbee Township Fire Department will have a fish and chicken fry from 4-7 p.m. Saturday, March 8, at the Aubbee Fire Station, 7400 Main St., Leiters Ford.
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Rochester High School student council is having a district-wide toy drive. “Ways For Hope” will run until Monday, March 10. It is a toy drive supporting patients at Riley Children’s Hospital Oncology Unit, celebrating RHS student Rachel
Way’s healing and her desire to give back.
Items needed are new unwrapped toys, crafts, books and games for ages 0-18. Do not donate used or perishable items. Used video games are welcome as long as they have been cleaned and sanitized.
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Park board will meet at 6 p.m. Monday, March 10, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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First pitch by FEDCO will be from 9-11:30 a.m. Thursday, March 13, at the Geneva Center, 5282 N. Old Highway 31, Rochester. Six business pitches, three schools competing. Public welcome.
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The warming shelter is now located at Faith Outreach, 1125 E. Ninth St., Rochester, for the month of February. Intake is between the hours of 6-10 p.m. After 10 p.m. intakes will only be taken by law enforcement. Supper is provided and a bag breakfast will be given for breakfast. Checkout is at 7 a.m.
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A soup supper will be from 4:306 p.m. Wednesday’s, during the month of February, at Kewanna United Methodist Church, corner of Pearl Street and Toner Street, Kewanna. All are welcome. Freewill donation.
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Argos FFA Chapter is selling
fresh strawberries. A full flat is $25 and half a flat is $15. Contact any FFA member. Strawberries will be delivered to the Argos ag shop in early March.
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It’s time to join 4-H. Take the first steps by enrolling now on 4-H online at v2.4honline.com. If you have any questions, contact the Extension Office at (574) 223-3397.
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Puzzle Mania is at Akron Public Library, 205 E. Rochester St., Akron. Stop in and work on the puzzles anytime from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. It will run through March. There are a variety of puzzles that can be borrowed and returned.
Valley announces IASP Rising Stars of 2026
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
The Tippecanoe Valley School Corp. has honored several current Tippecanoe Valley High School juniors for their academics.
At its regular meeting on Monday, Feb. 17, at Tippecanoe Valley Middle School, the Tippecanoe Valley School Board saw Lindsay Petersen, Hayden Stookey, Cassie Rich and Sophia Ruiz recognized as part of the Indiana Association
of School Principals’ Rising Stars of Indiana Class of 2026. School leaders are welcome to nominate up to four juniors each year for the distinction.
Tippecanoe Valley High School
Principal Brandon Kresca noted the four students “are at the top of their class, leaders in the community, involved in extracurriculars, just exceptional students at Tippecanoe Valley High School.”
“They are an extremely talented group,” he added.
VALLEY RISING STARS Four Tippecanoe Valley High School students were honored at the Tippecanoe Valley School Board’s regular meeting on Monday, Feb. 17, at Tippecanoe Valley Middle School as the Indiana Association of School Principals’ Rising Stars of Indiana Class of 2026. From left are the honorees, Hayden Stookey, Sophia Ruiz, Cassie Rich and Lindsay Petersen; and TVHS Principal Brandon Kresca. Photo by Leah Sander.
RMS Theater Arts
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
Rochester Middle School students invite the public to join them in Neverland.
RMS Theater Arts is presenting “Peter Pan Jr.” at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, and Saturday, March 1, in the Rochester High School auditorium.
Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with tickets available at the door. Those cost $10 for adults and $5 for students, with those 5 and younger free.
Twenty-five students make up the cast, with play Co-director Tara Smoker noting many of them are acting for the first time.
She said she and Co-director Berklee Sutton chose “Peter Pan Jr.” for the play as it fits the cast size.
“We don’t remember it being done at Rochester in a very long time, if ever,” added Smoker. “With it being a junior show, it is shorter and a perfect length for a middle school production! It also has fun musical numbers that we really liked as well. It is just a fun show for all ages.”
Smoker said it’s the first musical she and Sutton have directed together for RMS.
Those who have seen Disney’s “Peter Pan” film will recognize the songs, said Smoker. She said the play differs merely from the Disney film in that there are no mermaids.
Smoker said she hopes audience members enjoy “everything from the singing and dancing to the fabulous talent.”
“I do not think you will leave disappointed,” she said.
Smoker said she hoped students “gain confidence” from being in the show.
“Many of them have so much talent, and they don’t even realize it,” she said. “I can’t wait to see them get on that stage and shine!”
‘Peter Pan Jr.’ Cast List
Peter Pan — Brantlyn Brubaker Wendy — Charlie Backus
John — Austin Field
Michael — Travis Bright
Liza — Ella Papandria
Nana — Rilee Lucker
Mr. Darling — Logan Zartman
Mrs. Darling — Zoey Blakesly
Nibs — Wynter White
Slightly — Minna Fulton
Curley — Riley Harding
Twin No. 1 — Keaghan Kauffman
Twin No. 2 — Aria Kauffman
Tootles — Corinna Chevalier
Captain Hook — Allie Mulligan
Smee — Delilah Ashby
Noodler — Lexy Springer
Jukes — Elizabeth Metz
Starkey — Taylor Cox
Cecco — Daphne Blakesley
Tiger Lily — Whitley Winans
Small Brave Girl — Ella Papandria
Brave Girl No. 1 — Alice Atkinson
Brave Girl No. 2 — Alyssa Clapper
Crocodile — Lyrik Rivas
HOOK VERSUS PETER PAN Allie Mulligan as Captain Hook, left, and Brantlyn Brubaker as Peter Pan fight. They are part of the cast of the Rochester Middle School play “Peter Pan Jr.”
SIBLINGS Playing the Darling siblings in the Rochester Middle School production of “Peter Pan Jr.” are from left Austin Field, Charlie Backus and Travis Bright.
OFF TO NEVERLAND — The cast and directors of the Rochester Middle School play “Peter Pan Jr.” are shown. Show times are 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, and Saturday, March 1.
Wieland provides TVMS update to Valley Board
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
Students taking high school courses in middle school and testing results were some of the topics discussed in the Tippecanoe Valley Middle School annual update to the Tippecanoe Valley School Board.
The board heard the information from TVMS Principal Kyle Wieland at its regular meeting at the school on Monday, Feb. 17.
Wieland started out by providing statistics on the current student body and TVMS staff.
“We are a very young building as far as years of experience,” he said.
He noted that “60% of our teachers have 10 years or fewer of experience, but one of our biggest positives to me is that we had zero teachers leave after last year.”
Regarding students, he said, “we’re really close to the same enrollment as we had last year.”
The middle school has 428 students, breaking down to 138 in sixth grade, 146 in seventh grade and 144 in eighth grade.
Wieland added “61% of our students are on free or reduced lunch.” Thirty-seven percent of students are receiving some sort of educational assistance in school, whether that be with language or functional skills.
He noted “92% of our eighth graders will enter high school with at least one high school credit.”
Regarding state testing, Wieland noted he believed Indiana’s switch to having “checkpoints” was allowing the school to better prepare students for ILEARN as the school was getting feedback on students’ results periodically.
Among extracurricular highlights, Wieland noted TVMS was a Unified Champion School for
2023-24 due to its promotion of students with special needs getting to play sports along with those without special needs. TVMS was also a Riley Children’s Foundation Red Wagon School for the 2023-24 school year due to it raising the equivalent of a least $1 per student for Riley Hospital for Children.
In other business, the board:
Approved the hiring of Valley Early Learning Academy instructional assistant Brianna Turek and Mentone Elementary School instructional assistant Tracy Vance.
Approved the termination of Tippecanoe Valley High School head custodian Michelle Hoffman.
Accepted the resignations of Mentone instructional assistant Kara Loper; TVMS instructional assistants Kora Sloan and Alyssa Evans; TVHS pool manager
Deanna Roe and technology associate Cougan White; and Tippecanoe Valley School Corp. Director of Communications, Marketing and Grant Writing Kiira Churchill.
Heard an update on high school activities from student representative Jacob Scacco. SAT and midterms are coming up at the school, and student Gunnar Crispen is also going to a national Jobs for America’s Graduates event and competing in prepared speech.
The board’s next meeting is 6 p.m. Monday, March 17, at TVHS.
TVMS UPDATE Tippecanoe Valley Middle School Principal Kyle Wieland gives an update on the school to the Tippecanoe Valley School Board at its regular meeting on Monday, Feb. 17.
Valley receives Health First Indiana funding for therapist and AEDs
The Tippecanoe Valley School Corp. has received Health First Indiana funding for a mental health therapist and several automated external defibrillator devices.
The funding came in through the Kosciusko County Health Department.
In spring 2024, TVSC was awarded $32,850 to support the salary and benefits of hiring an additional mental health therapist for the district. By summer 2024, TVSC hired the additional therapist, who has been serving students at Mentone Elementary School and Tippecanoe Valley Middle School since Aug. 5, 2024.
“This funding has allowed us to provide critical mental health
GETTING AEDS The Tippecanoe Valley School Corp. received Health First Indiana funding through the Kosciusko County Health Department for six automated external defibrillators. Shown from left are Health First Kosciusko Administrative Assistant Elizabeth McCullough, Tippecanoe Valley Middle School nurse Alexis Drudge and TVMS Principal Kyle Wieland. Photo provided by TVSC.
support to students who otherwise might not have access,” said TVMS Principal Kyle Wieland.
“The addition of a mental health therapist has had a profound impact, helping students navigate
challenges and develop essential coping skills.”
TVSC has recently received additional Health First Indiana funding to purchase six new AED devices for its school buildings.
Looking ahead, TVSC has been approved for $65,700 in Health First Indiana funding for 2025 to continue supporting the salary and benefits of its mental health therapists.
Photo by Leah Sander.
Boys Basketball Sectional
Rochester FFA Week activities
PHOTOS BY LEAH SANDER
on Friday, Feb. 21, as part of National FFA
of
from
CORNHOLE Owen Prater, left, and Alex Chapman play cornhole during Rochester High School’s FFA tournament on Friday, Feb. 21, as part of National FFA Week.
CORNHOLE WINNERS Isaac Shaffer and Aubrey Wilson were the winners of Rochester High School FFA’s cornhole tournament during National FFA Week, with the team of Jack Reffett and Conner Dunfee placing second. From left are Shaffer, Wilson, Reffett and Dunfee.
MECHANICAL BULL Chevy Swank rides the mechanical bull during Rochester High School FFA’s activities on Friday, Feb. 21, as part of National FFA Week.
KISSING THE PIG Rochester Athletic Director Cal Stone, left, was chosen to kiss a pig during Rochester High School FFA’s activities on Friday, Feb. 21, as part of National FFA Week. James Gardner holds the pig. Photo provided by Dustin May.
MILK CHUG CHAMPION Isaac Heishman won Rochester High School FFA’s milk chug contest on Friday, Feb. 21, as part of National FFA Week.
MUSICAL CHAIRS During Rochester High School FFA’s activities
Week, students played a version
musical chairs where they had to grab set objects
other students before racing to grab a seat.
Tippy Valley Boys Basketball Sectional 2025
VALLEY VIKINGS BOYS BASKETBALL — The Tippecanoe Valley varsity boys basketball team in no particular order are: Davis Cowen, Liam Newcomer, Ian Cooksey, Jude Kammerer, Blaine Sheetz, Hunter Stage, Tristan Ragon, Mason Miller, DeOndre Hamilton, Owen Omondi, Ethan Drudge, Stephen Akase, William Mellott, Noah Rutherford, JJ Kammerer, Colter Blackburn, Kingston Loper, head coach Joe Luce, assistant coach BJ Walls, junior varsity head coach Shaun Shepherd, junior varsity assistant coach Anthony Newcomer and C-Team coach Kyle Ritchey.
by Frederick’s.
TIPPECANOE
Photo
Fulton County Chamber accepting nominations for community awards
The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for the 2024 Community Awards now through Wednesday, March 12.
Descriptions of each award are below.
Organization of the Year
Open to both businesses and nonprofit organizations, this award is presented to an organization or business in the Fulton County area with proven growth and stability that provides innovative products and services and demonstrates economic support of the Fulton County area business community.
Business Professional of the Year
This award is presented to an individual who demonstrates growing excellence, creativity and initiative in their profession, is engaged in the community and shows a strong commitment to good business practices. This person serves as a role model for other professionals both personally and professionally and possesses vision and passion to mentor and lead others.
Emerging Business Award
Open to both businesses and nonprofit organizations, this award is presented to an organization or business established in the last five years in the Fulton
County area that demonstrates growing success in community and exhibits commitment to good business practices, community relations and employee relations.
Community Service Award
The original chamber award, it’s presented to an individual who has made outstanding contributions to the community.
12. Please provide the business/ individual name and category for nomination.
Nominations may be submitted by contacting Kellie Scobie at kellie@fultoncountychamber.com or (574) 224-2666 through March
Nominees must be a member of the Fulton County Chamber (with the exception of the Community Service Award).
Nominated businesses and individuals will be notified by the chamber and asked to complete a video application by Wednesday, March 26. Winners will be announced at the chamber’s annual meeting on Thursday, April 24.
Stevens inducted into Caston Athletic Wall of Fame
Debb Stevens was formally inducted as an honorary member of the Caston Athletic Wall of Fame on Saturday, Feb. 21, at the Caston High School home basketball game. Stevens devoted a large part of her life to Caston athletes, she was a great example of what is involved in being a supporter of student athletes. Stevens cared about the kids and doing anything she could for the students to be successful.
Caston athletics thrived under her direction with multiple team conference championships, team sectional and regional championships and many individual tournament successes. She represented Caston as one of the most respected and accomplished athletic directors in the state of Indiana. Stevens taught physical education and coached volleyball, basketball and track prior to becoming athletic director. She coached five sectional champion-
ships at Caston and her basketball teams had only one losing season during her coaching career. During her career at Caston as athletic director, she achieved the following accomplishments and state recognitions:
• IHSAA Board of Directors for the entire District 1.
• IIAAA Board of Directors Representative for District 1.
• IIAAA District 1 — HS Athletic Director of the Year.
• IIAAA District 1 — JH Athletic Director of the Year.
• Indiana Basketball Coaches Association — HS Athletic Director of the Year.
• Indiana Wrestling Coaches Association — HS Athletic Director of the Year
• National Federation of State High School Associations — National Merit Award Winner.
Stevens is a 1972 graduate of Pioneer High School. She received her bachelor’s degree from Indi-
ana State University. She was a three-sport athlete at Indiana State University. Stevens also played on two Women’s College
World Series teams for the Sycamores. Prior to coming to Caston, Steven taught for 10 years in the Bloomfield school system.
WALL OF FAME — Retired Caston Athletic Director Debb Stevens, left, was inducted into the Caston High School Athletic Wall of Fame Saturday, Feb. 22, at the Caston home basketball game. Caston High School Principle Chuck Evans presented the award. Photo provided by Caston High School.
Rochester winter sports update: Gard, Horn, Beck place
Boys Wrestling
Rochester
By VAL TSOUTSOURIS Sports Editor, RTC
juniors Declan Gard, Layne Horn and Brant Beck all placed in their respective weight classes at the IHSAA state finals at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis last weekend. Gard finished fourth at 285 pounds, Horn was seventh at 132, and Beck was seventh at 157.
Wyatt Davis lost his firstround match Friday and did not place. Gard beat Keenan Mowery-Shields 7-2 in his first-round match Friday, scoring all seven points in the second period. He then won 3-2 on an ultimate tiebreaker when he got an escape in the third overtime period against Warren Central’s Jacarei Markey.
Gard then lost a 15-0 technical fall in 4:16 to Crown Point’s Lucas Szymborski in the semifinals and 7-2 decision to Brownsburg’s Max-
imus Forrester in the third-place match. Gard was competing at his first state finals. He has jumped from 145 to 175 to heavyweight in his three high school seasons.
Horn assured himself of a spot on the podium with a fall over Madison-Grant’s Tripp Haisley in 1:46 in his Friday match. He then lost to Center Grove’s Eddie Goss 1-0 in the quarterfinals for his first loss of the season as Goss prevented him from getting an escape or reversal from the top position in the third period.
Gard finished 43-7. All seven losses came to wrestlers in the top six.
Horn then lost to Warren Central’s Donald Bowie 4-1 in the consolation round before bouncing back to pin DeKalb’s Drew Waldon in 2:03 in the seventh-place match. There were only two pins in the entire 132-pound class at state, and Horn had both. Horn went 48-2 for the season and will carry a 131-6 record into his senior season.
Beck was tied 4-4 in the third period of his first-round match against Gibson Southern’s Dea-
con Dressler when Dressler gave Beck a free point rather than try to ride Beck from the top position. Dressler was betting on getting a takedown to win the match, but instead, it was Beck who got the takedown to go up 8-4, and he went on to win 8-5.
Beck then lost by identical 4-3 scores to Warren Central’s Christian Arberry and Cowan’s Jackson Bradley. Beck came back to beat Adams Central’s Maverick Dubach 7-2 in the seventh-place match, getting a take-down 10 seconds into the match and an escape and another takedown in the second period to lead 7-0.
Beck finished 46-3. Both he and Horn could be on track to break older brother Brady Beck’s career wins record next year. Davis lost 4-0 to Terre Haute South’s Coy Bender Friday. Bender got a first period takedown and wrestled a style that made it hard for opponents to score, according to Davis.
As a team, Rochester scored 23 points and finished in 16th place.
Boys Basketball
Drew Bowers scored 16 points, Tanner Reinartz had 14, and
March events at Akron Carnegie Public Library
Akron Carnegie Public Library is offering the following special events in March.
The library is located at 205 E. Rochester St., Akron. For more information on any of the programs call (574) 893-4113, visit akron.lib. in.us, or visit its Facebook page.
Adult Winter Reading Program
The last day for the Adult Winter Reading Program is Friday, March 7. Be sure to get your books recorded before the end of the day in order to be eligible for the prize drawings.
Preschool Story Hour
Preschool Story Hour “Brilliant Beginnings” is at 10 a.m. each Wednesday. Children ages 3-6 years will have an hour of fun with Miss Nicole hearing stories, singing songs, and making a craft.
Baby & Me Story Time
Cultivate a love of reading in your little one while building vocabulary and fine motor skills with this brand new program. This new program is specifically designed for children 0-2 years old. Join at 9:30 a.m. Thursdays for a half hour of songs, rhymes, stories and cuddles with your child.
Second Seasons Fitness
Second Seasons Fitness is fitness awareness. Move your body twice a week at 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, with chair exercises and a gentle cardio workout program. A free class for those ages 50 and older.
Puzzle Mania
Work on one of the puzzles during normal business hours from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays. Can’t stay? Borrow and work on one in the comfort of your own home and time frame.
Pot of Gold Books
Kids can check out Pot of Gold books starting the first day of March leading up to St. Patrick’s Day, or while supplies last. Look for those tiny, mischievous leprechauns scattered throughout the
library with a make and take leprechaun finder. Enjoy this activity and more during the month of March.
Can You Catch A Leprechaun
Patrons are invited to design, build and bring in their completed trap by Saturday, March 1, to see if they can catch those mischievous little creatures. Traps should not be larger than 18” x 18”. Use whatever supplies you like to build the best possible trap.
Cinderella Movie
Elementary kids will be enthralled with the 75th anniversary showing of “Cinderella” at 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 4. Sign-up is required for this interactive movie experience.
Board Of Trustees Meeting
The Akron Public Library board of trustees will meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 4, in the community room.
Adult Readers Book Club
Adult Readers’ Book Club will meet at 5 p.m. Thursday, March 6. You’re in and out in one hour.
Small Space/Raised Bed Gardening
The Wabash County Extension Office will provide information on how to garden in small spaces so you can enjoy the process and the produce with a small space/raised bed gardening class at 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 12. Sign-up is required.
Chain Gang
The Chain Gang meets at 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 18. Spend the afternoon with those who enjoy crocheting, knitting, sewing or needlepoint. Bring your materials with you. If you would like to learn more on one of these specialty arts, there are plenty who are willing to get you on your way.
Tween Scene
Tween Scene is open to students in grades 5-8. It meets at 4 p.m. the third Wednesday of each month. Sign-up is required one week prior to class. This month participants will be crafting with Aggie and Alana.
Owen Prater added 13 as the Rochester boys basketball team topped Peru 64-52 Friday, Feb. 21.
Bowers, who sunk a halfcourt 3-pointer at halftime to bump Rochester’s lead to 29-25, also had a team-high four assists while Reinartz led in both rebounds (seven) and steals (eight). Bowers, Reinartz, Prater, Bryce Baugher and Xavier Vance were honored on senior night, and they then combined to score 52 of Rochester’s 64 points as the Zebras improved to 15-4 overall and 6-2 in the Three Rivers Conference.
Rochester is currently in fourth place in the TRC, but they will tie for the title if Manchester loses to Whitko Tuesday, Feb. 24 and if they beat Maconaquah Friday, Feb. 28.
Adult Crafty Corner
Adult Crafty Corner will meet at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Thursday, March 27. Be sure to sign up by Thursday, March 20, to make a cute Easter craft. This is an adult program that lasts approximately one hour. Call ACPL at (574) 8934113 or stop in and sign up in person. No registrations will be taken online.
Lego Club
Elementary kids can explore their creativity with Legos. A large collection of Legos is available for kids to play with, thanks to some very generous donations. It will be held from 4-5 p.m. Monday, March 31.
Miss you
By RUSS DAVIDSON Guest Writer
The driveway is covered with white, now we know why we get cold at night. When the wind blows hard we know we can’t win, “Miss you.”
Ice on our lake becomes weak when we arrive. Today I saw a sign you would be coming soon. A robin, geese in the air landing everywhere, spring is near. “I really miss you.”
The Rochester boys basketball team scored 19 more points than Triton allows on average Tuesday, Feb. 18. But it was the missed opportunities due to bad passes that bothered coach Rob Malchow after his team’s 60-52 loss at the RHS gym to the Class 1A, No. 7 Trojans. Reinartz scored 19 points, and Carson Paulik added 10 for the Zebras, who had their seven-game winning streak snapped and dropped to 14-4. Prater scored seven of his nine in the first half. Bowers had six, all in the fourth quarter.
Gage Riffle hit six 3-pointers and scored a game-high 24 for Triton, who won their sixth straight game and improved to 17-3. Tanner Witt-Hoyo added 14. Boys Swimming Rochester scored 55 points and finished 11th out of 12 teams at the Warsaw sectional Saturday, Feb. 22. Rochester finished eighth in the 200 freestyle relay in 1:52.44. That was the only event, individual or relay, in which Rochester qualified for the sectional final. The team consisted of Brevin Nicholson, Grant Bailey, Tanner Hamilton and Reece Johnson. Johnson, the team’s lone senior, was also the top individual performer, finishing 10th in the 200 individual medley in 2:27.03 and 11th in the 100 backstroke in 1:08.29. He was partially or totally responsible for 35 of the 55 team points. Nicholson also raced in two consolation finals, taking 15th in the 200 freestyle in 2:15.98 and 14th in the 500 freestyle in 6:06.15. Bailey took 16th in the 100 freestyle in 1:00.65. Nicholson, Bailey, Hamilton and Johnson also combined to place 10th in the 400 freestyle relay in 4:28.94. Culver Academy won the team title with 454 points, 17 more than runner-up Warsaw.
Bidding open until Friday, Feb. 28. Pickup located at 259 S. 700W, Winamac. Bid online at olsonauctions.hibid.com.
Coin Auction
10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 1. Located at Ted’s Auction Center, 11536 4A Road, Plymouth.
Online Consignment Auction
Bidding open until 5 p.m. Sunday, March 2. Pickup located in Plymouth. Bid online at oakcrestauctions.com.
Online Auction
Bidding open until 5 p.m. Monday, March 3. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Four-wheelers, tools, appliances, glass, pottery, jewelry, toys, jukebox, books, records, furniture. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction. com.
Shirk Real Estate Auction
6 p.m. Monday, March 3. Located at 1387 E. 600N, Rochester. Land, 103.85 in six parcels. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction. com.
Ritchie Estate Coin Auction
Bidding open until 5 p.m. Sunday, March 9. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Gold, silver dollars, platinum, proof and mint sets, coin books, 3-cent coins, lighters, vintage razors. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction. com.
Online Coca-Cola Auction
Bidding open until 7 p.m. Monday, March 10. Advertising, vending machines, coolers, die cast vehicles, furniture, clothing, bottles, toys. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
CHATTING Dave Sommers, left, chats with Caston FFA members Ashley Fred, center, and Jace Rentschler during Caston FFA’s hog roast on Friday, Feb. 21, during National FFA Week.
SERVING DINNER Some of the Caston FFA members serving dinner during the hog roast at Caston High School on Friday, Feb. 21, as part of National FFA Week were from left Alexa Lowe, Olivia Thomas and Cora Burns.
PHOTOS BY LEAH SANDER
Those on the Rochester High School boys’ varsity basketball team include, in the front from left, Drew Bowers, Carson Paulik, Jack Reffett and Owen Prater. In the back row are Grant Clark, Tanner Reinartz, Xavier Vance, Jonas Kiser and Bryce Baugher.
