Two new apartment complexes coming to Rochester are part of the developments Rochester Mayor Trent Odell discussed in his 2025 State of the City address.
Odell spoke at the Kiwanis Club of Rochester’s meeting at the Fulton County Museum outside the city on Wednesday, Jan. 29.
He said the city got two Local-Income Housing Tax Credit awards in November.
Those allow the development of a new complex called Chamberlain Place behind Arbor Woods Apartments at 500 Mitchell Drive.
“It will be a very similar setup as Arbor Woods,” said Odell. “That will be affordable housing ... It’s workforce housing, not Section 8.”
Odell said the other complex will be “a senior living facility on
College Avenue (for) 55 and older.”
He noted the people living there will be able to access the Nickel Plate Trail from “their backyard.” Those apartments will be known as Hawkins Homestead.
Odell said work on Hawkins Homestead should start “in May.”
“I’m expecting (Chamberlain Place) to (be worked on) this year as well,” he said.
“There were only 16 awards across the state,” said Odell. “We got two of them. That’s huge.”
Other Developments
Odell also briefly discussed plans to bring in a commercial park to the SR 25 and US 31 intersection area.
He noted Fulton Economic Development Corp. Director Michael Ladd, Charlie Sparks of CESparks Consulting and Fulton County Commissioners and property owner Jim Straeter “are in part of the early process of working on getting some land options nailed down for a future
ton County Museum outside Rochester.
commercial park.”
“I think this community’s always felt like that was a prime location, 31 and 25, for development of jobs,” said Odell. “So we’re making the effort to make sure that happens to get our-
selves prepared for whomever. It’s impossible to say who might come, but we know that no one will if we’re not prepared ... They will not wait on you to put in the structure for utilities. You’ve got Continued on page 2
LISTENING The audience listens at the event.
STATE OF THE CITY Rochester Mayor Trent Odell delivers his 2025 State of the City address on Wednesday, Jan. 29, at the Ful-
our n eighbor
McCall:
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
The 2025 Distinguished Young Woman of Fulton County said it’s “a great privilege” to have the role.
Sophie McCall, of Rochester, won the DYW event held at Caston High School in November over four other girls.
The Rochester High School senior will compete for the title of Distinguished Young Woman of Indiana on Friday, Feb. 14, and Saturday, Feb. 15, at the Indiana University Kokomo Havens Auditorium.
McCall, the daughter of Mark and Kelly McCall, said it was her mother who encouraged her to try the initial competition.
“Actually, my mom kind of pushed me,” said McCall. “She heard about it, and I was kind of
skeptical about it at first because I had never done anything like this, but then Michaela (Slisher) came in, and I think Melinda (Pratt) was there, too, and they talked about the program. It seemed really exciting and something I’d thought I’d be interested in.”
Slisher and Pratt lead the DYW of Fulton County as well as the DYW programs for Pulaski and Cass counties.
During the November competitions, McCall won the talent, scholastic, interview and self-expression categories, giving her $2,000 in scholarship money.
She hopes to study nursing after she graduates from high school.
The above categories will also be part of the state competition, along with fitness, with McCall working on the required routine to prepare.
“I’m also just researching things about Indiana right now, what’s going on in the news in case those pop up in my interview (at state) and then making sure I have all the clothing that I need for my talent, self-expression and interview,” she said.
McCall will showcase the same talent at state she did in the county contest: a tennis demonstration.
Sophie has played tennis at RHS, with her other extracurricular activities including Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Honor Society, the Fulton County Youth Leadership Academy and being a United Way of Fulton County student representative.
Slisher said she’s having McCall practice for state alongside Distinguished Young Woman of Cass County Danielle Gomez, Distinguished Young Woman of Pulaski County Emily Weaver and Distinguished Young Woman of Winamac JeeAnne Peterson.
“It’s helpful just being with other girls,” said McCall. “You ... help each other out.”
The actual state competition is preceded by several days of events for the girls, including a visit to the glass factory in Kokomo and a bowling outing.
McCall is rooming with the Distinguished Young Woman of Lawrence County Francesca Orozco during the week.
Overall, the process of being in DYW has taught McCall she’s “capable of a lot more than (she) thought (she) was,” she said.
McCall said completing the interview for the county competition prepared her for one she did when applying for a Woodlawn Hospital internship.
Odell highlights
Continued from page 1
to get it in there first.”
Odell said he’d received a phone call on Wednesday that was “just another step forward in this process.”
He said utilities could be installed “maybe this summer.”
Odell thanked Fulton County Chamber of Commerce Director Jillian Smith for “connecting (him) with the current hotel owner” at McDonald Drive.
The city is “getting ready to extend (the drive) come spring,” said Odell.
He noted the road had been privately owned and the city had to speak with the hotel owner and McDonald’s restaurant owner “to acquire that road.”
As for the Nickel Plate Trail extension from Wabash Avenue to the trail running by the Round Barn Golf Club at Ninth Street, he said work should be going on it “as soon as the weather (gets better) this spring.”
Odell also said a new water tow-
“It’s a great opportunity to get involved and put yourself out there and meet other girls that are your age,” she said of being in DYW. “I love influencing other girls to join. Hopefully I can convince some other ... girls to join for next year so we can have a good turnout.”
er should be installed, with residents’ water bill increases helping pay for that.
“The water tower is a necessity because ... we don’t have good (water) protection from a fire safety standpoint,” he said.
Other Highlights
Odell also noted the Rochester Summer Parks Program got reestablished in 2024 under Lindsay Barts and Abigail Cronan, with 80 kids coming each day.
Also last year, the Nickel Plate Music & Arts Festival brought a parade back to Rochester, said Odell, with him thanking Ed and Amy Richard for their work planning the parade. Odell said “slightly over 80” entries were in the parade.
He noted The Times Theater of Rochester Executive Director Julie Shambarger said the venue has had 1,000 people visit it in January 2025 alone. The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce also had more than 700 cars at the Chili Cook-Off and Red Hot Car Show in October.
REPRESENTING FULTON COUNTY — Rochester High School senior Sophie McCall was named the 2025 Distinguished Young Woman of Fulton County in November. She’s competing for the title of Distinguished Young Woman of Indiana on Friday, Feb. 14, and Saturday, Feb. 15, in Kokomo. Photo by Leah Sander.
Good Neighbors
Good Neighbors is a column in which readers share friendly advice. To ask or answer questions, write ‘the PAPER’, Good Neighbors, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542; fax 800-886-3796; or e-mail abias@the-papers.com. Please no phone calls.
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.
New questions
Elliptical — Wanted: An elliptical in good condition. Call (574) 773-0027.
Power chair — Does any good neighbor need or know of someone who would benefit from a Jazzy Select power chair? Call (574) 653-2311.
Step stools — Is there a good neighbor who
Let’s Study The Bible —
knows where the Costco brand step stools can be purchased? The ones with one step and a seat. Reply through this column. — A reader
Exercise equipment — I am looking for some good exercise equipment (treadmill, exercise bike, etc.) Can you help me out? Reply through this column. — A neighbor
Transportation assistance — Transportation assistance needed from Camp Mack Road in Milford to Goshen and back for physical therapy beginning Feb. 17. For four to six weeks, two to three times per week. If you can assist, call or text (574) 678-0297.
Sharpening knives — Wanted: Someone who can sharpen draw knives and spoke shaves. If you know of anyone, text or call (574) 549-2227.
The second coming of Christ
(Read: Revelation 19:1-21)
By THE REV. RON PURKEY
“And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war….. 13 And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called the word of God. 14 And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. 15 And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. 16 And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, King Of Kings, And Lord Of Lords” (Revelation 19:11-16).
There are about 100 different elements, all of which can be reduced to liquid and finally to gas. The ocean is an example, for it is made of hydrogen and oxygen, which are both highly combustible.
A high school chemistry teacher illustrated this by placing a vial of hydrogen in a beaker and then putting a match to it. It made a great explosion, and when he opened the container, only a drop of water was left.
Our world is covered with oceans and seas of water made of highly combustible material. When we see something burning, it is not on fire; rather, it is oxidizing. The union of oxygen with whatever elements are in that article is what is on fire. All God has to do is to speak the word, and his elements become a flame of fire.
Geologists say we literally live our days upon a burning mass
of molten lava. God would have only to break the crust of the earth and all would burst into a molten mass.
The astronomer also adds his picture. He looks up into the heavens and finds exploding stars and burned-out spheres through great galaxies.
The scriptures tell us that when that awesome day comes, the moon will turn to blood red and the sun will be shut out in darkness like sackcloth of ashes. When the moon turns blood red, it will be a reflection of the burning of the earth. The shadows of the burning fire will make the moon look red; and when it says the sun is darkened like sack-
cloth of ashes, I think the fire and the smoke of the burning air will shut out the very sun itself and it will be dark. What a day that will be, when Christ makes his final intervention in human history!
“And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshiped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone” (Revelation 19:20).
Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines free at rcpbibleoutlines. com. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.
Columbia Elementary announces kindergarten round-up
Columbia Elementary School will hold it’s kindergarten roundup from 12:30-5:30 p.m. Friday, April 17, at the Learning Center, 1818 Park Road, Rochester. Registration is required. Enrollment packets are available at Columbia. You will need to complete pages 1-4 and return them by Friday, Feb. 28 to the school to register.
Columbia Elementary will be reaching out in March to finalize
your student’s round-up time. Be sure to bring the following to round-up: birth certificate, proof of residency (ex. utility bill, mortgage, or renters agreement showing parent’s name and address).
If you are unable to attend round-up, contact Columbia to enroll your student for the 20252026 school year. Contact Columbia Elementary for more information at (574) 223-2501.
O bituaries
Richard ‘Rick’ Ira Seese
HVAC Technician
Richard “Rick” Ira Seese 72, Rochester, and formerly of Leiters Ford, passed away at 7:47 p.m. Friday, Jan. 31, 2025, at Life Care Center, Rochester.
He was born May 20, 1953, in Rochester. He was the son of Ira J and Evelyn (Kerr) Seese. Rick married Paula (Zehner) Sullivan, with whom he had a daughter, Nicole. They later divorced.
Rick had worked for several years as a HVAC technician. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and trapping. He was also an avid sports fan of football and car racing.
Survivors include his daughter, Nicole Gunter, Peru; grandchildren, Cassie Newman, (partner, Kevin Martin), Manchester, Tenn., and Cameron McKinney, Wabash, currently serving as combat engineer in the U.S. Army Reserves; one great-grandson, Kahari Zae Martin; one brother, Terry (Carole) Seese, Madison, Wisc.; niece, Jennifer Seese; and nephew, Jon Seese.
Preceding him in death were his parents.
His family wants to acknowledge his many close friends who have assisted him especially during the last few years during illness and confinement in hospitals and nursing homes. The family is grateful for your kindness and support.
The family also wants to thank the staff of Life Care Center, doctors and nurses for their care and support.
No services are scheduled. A memorial service is to be announced at a later date.
Arrangements by Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester.
Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh.com.
Johnny Ray Wadkins
Johnny Ray Wadkins, 71, rural Rochester (Tiosa), died at 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025, at Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital, Warsaw.
He was born April 7, 1953. On April 19, 1975, he married Janet Lee Holbrook, who survives.
Additional survivors are his son, Johnny R. Wadkins II and wife, Gretchen, Bourbon; daughters, Jennifer Lee and husband, Joe Kilgore, Walton, and Heather S. and husband, Juan Murillo, Warsaw; brothers, Bill and wife, Mary, Wadkins, Silver Lake and Lon Wadkins, Disko; 14 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and sister, Joyce Hoskins, North Manchester.
He was preceded in death by twin sons, Kenneth Ray and Ronald Keith Wadkins; mother and father-in-law, Geneva and Charles Holbrook; sister, Charlotte Oaks; and two brothers, Richmond and Lloyd Wadkins.
Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 30, at King Memorial Home, Mentone, with Pastor Jerry Wadkins officiating.
Interment was in Mentone Cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Sportsmans and Farmers Conservation Club, Silver Lake.
Online condolences can be shared with the family at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.
Virginia L. Bremer
Virginia L. Bremer, 77, rural Silver Lake and Akron areas, died at 11:50 p.m. Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, at Peabody Retirement Community, North Manchester.
She was born on July 11, 1947. On July 30, 1965, she married Robert P. Bremer; who preceded her in death June 18, 2020.
She is survived by her mother, Ramona Griffith, Lowell, Mich.; son, Robbie (Nicole) Bremer, Rochester; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren, and sister, Sue Yakes, Lowell, Mich.
She was preceded in death by her father, Joseph Griffith.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 30, at Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron, with Pastor Emanuel Matthews officiating.
Interment was in Lakeview Cemetery, Silver Lake.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.
Court News
Superior Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Superior Court, Judge Gregory L. Heller presiding: Complaints
Community Finance LLC v. Kameron Green, Rochester, $2,622
Credit Acceptance Corporation v. Kiara McCreery, Rochester, $6,844.71
Traffic Violations
The following fines and levies were paid in Fulton County courts:
Driving while suspended — Jason Taylor, Muncie, $164.50
Failure of occupant to use a safety belt — Brittany Cordova, Logansport, $25
Speeding — Isaiah Terrance, South Bend, $164.50; William Sheick, Grand Rapids, Mich., $164.50; Lind-
sey Candey, Osceola, $154.50; Tyler Calmes, Indianapolis, $164.50; Aiden Williams, Bunker Hill, $164.50; Jose Contreras, Bristol, $164.50; Hilda Alvarez, Dalton Ga., $154.50; Carmelo Russo, Granger, $164.50; ryan Pecina, Granger, $164.50; Michael Loftus, Saint Joseph, Mich., $164.50; Dylan Brannick, Wauconda, Ill., $164.50; David Green, Carmel, $154.50; Mason Botka, Granger, $154.50; Robert Owens, Deerfield Beach, Fla., $154.50; Avory Zolman, Granger, $164.50; Kody Amor, Plymouth, $154.50; Halie Anderson, Kokomo, $164.50; Luis Ortiz Soc, Richmond, Va., $154.50
Marriage Licenses
The following couple has applied for a marriage license in the office of Fulton County Clerk of the Court: Bolton-Hopkins
Samuel
Marion Rex Bussard
Marion Rex Bussard, 77, New Haven, died Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025, at Parkview Randallia Hospital.
He was born Sept. 9, 1947. He married Susie Bussard, who survives.
Additional survivors are son, Kevin (Angie) Bussard, Angola; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; four brothers, David (Denise) Bussard, Akron, Bob (Sharon) Bussard, North Liberty, Greg Bussard, Warsaw, and Chuck (Bridget) Bussard, Silver Lake; three sisters, Sue Bussard, Akron, Jane Clark, New Haven, and Bernice “Sis” Strong, Akron; brothers and sister-in-law, Gary (Yvonne) Wills, Monroeville; and Mike (Sue) Wills, Hoagland; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, John Bussard and Jim Bussard and his parents.
A celebration of life service was held Tuesday Feb. 4, at First Baptist Church of New Haven, New Haven, with military honors rendered.
Arrangements were entrusted to Divine Mercy Funeral Home, Fort Wayne.
Online condolences can be shared with the family at DivineMercyFuneralHome.com.
CHECK PRESENTATION — A check in the amount of $35,000 was recently donated to the Tippecanoe Valley Agriculture Scholarship program. It was established for students who wish to further their education in the area of agriculture after high school graduation. Shown from left are fund founders, Ross Burdge, Priscilla Burdge, Chris Jones, Glen Jones and Fulton County Community Foundation Director of Development Brian Johnson. Photo provided by Fulton County Community Foundation.
Fulton County Community Foundation announces new agricultural scholarship
A group of supporters from the Tippecanoe Valley School District are in the process of raising funds to establish a scholarship for students planning to continue their education in the field of agriculture after high school graduation. Ross and Priscilla Burdge, along with Glen and Chris Jones, noted a need to support those students wishing to earn a degree or vocational certificate in agriculture. They have since been joined in this project by 11 other families to establish a fund to be administered by the Fulton County Community Foundation. To date, the group has had $35,000 committed to the project. With a goal of $50,000, they are now reaching out to anyone willing to join in this effort. It
has been noted that those young people with additional training in agriculture studies are far more likely to become a part of the local employment scene after graduation than those in other fields of study, as employment opportunities in agriculture are far more often available in rural areas than are employment opportunities in many other fields of study.
The following families have already joined in this project with significant contributions: Ron and Alice Opple, Terry and Sandra Tucker, Ron and Cindy Clauson, Victor Gamble, Forrest Kantner, Richard and Deborah Larew, Scot and Kim Backus, Michael Norman, Michael and Karen Nelson (in memory of Todd),
Virgil and Phyllis Biddinger and Michael and Lacey Jones.
A set of criteria has been established for the selection of recipients by these donors. If you would like to join in this project in support of these students, please send contributions to: Glen Jones at 4750 N. 450E, Rochester, IN 46975. Checks should be made payable to the Northern Indiana Community Foundation.
Contributions may also be made in the form of crop donations. Questions about this project may be directed to Glen Jones, by texting or calling (574) 204-3442 or FCCF Director Brian Johnson at (574) 224-3223. Tax benefit information will be provided by FCCF.
JOHNNY RAY WADKINS
MARION REX BUSSARD
RICHARD ‘RICK’ IRA SEESE
Bolton, 45, Goshen, and Misty Hopkins, 36, Akron.
Dahlia combinations for gardens and bouquets
By MELINDA MYERS Guest Columnist
Dahlias come in various colors, shapes, and sizes making them easy to include in any garden, container, and bouquet. Grow them in their own dedicated space, mix them with other flowers or plant a few at the end of the vegetable garden.
Consider including different varieties of dahlias for added interest and beauty in the garden and your arrangements. Select colors that you imagine will look great together in a vase. This will make it easy to create a lot of creative combinations on the fly.
Grow dahlias with flowers of different shapes and sizes to create more interesting arrangements. Dahlias offer many options and it’s one of the reasons they are such a popular cut flower. Longfield Gardens provides help and inspiration in Types of Dahlias: 8 Great Looks.
You’ll find the widest range of colors and styles with new varieties in the decorative dahlia group continually being released. Add a bit of elegance to the garden and bouquets with Mondriaan’s soft pink petals tinged with pastel yellow, apricot and lavender. Decorative dahlias make great cut flowers, and their sturdy stems make them easy to grow with other flowers in gardens and containers.
Add interesting texture to your gardens and bouquets with anemone-flowered and collarette dahlias. The anemone-flowered dahlias have a cluster of tubular florets in the center surrounded by more traditional petals. The two different lengths of petals in the collarette varieties add to their charm.
Enjoy an abundant harvest of cut flowers when growing ball and pompon dahlias. These perfectly round flowers are packed with
tightly rolled petals and are longlived in arrangements. Their size makes them excellent additions to mixed bouquets helping to connect the various flowers for an impressive display.
The unique blossoms of waterlily dahlias have made it one of the most popular for cutting. The relatively flat flowers have tightly closed centers surrounded by several rows of flat or slightly curved petals.
Grow a few single dahlias for you and the pollinators to enjoy. The daisy-like flowers have a prominent center surrounded by a single row of petals. Their airy appearance complements a variety of late-season perennials in the garden and bouquets. Mix in a few peony-flowered varieties for a showier display. These also have a prominent center but are surrounded by two or more layers of petals.
Add a bit of excitement to any arrangement with cactus and semi-cactus varieties. Their tightly curled petals make them a standout in the garden and bouquets.
You’ll only need one or a few dinnerplate dahlia blooms to make a statement in a vase or arrangement. The large flowers can grow up to 10 inches across on four- to five-foot-tall plants. Tag team a pair of dinnerplate dahlias for the back of the border. Labyrinth and Tyrell have apricot flowers with pink and yellow accents that blend nicely with a wide range of colors in the garden.
If you feel overwhelmed by all the choices or can’t decide on the best combination, let the experts lend a hand. Consider purchasing one or more ready-to-plant dahlia combinations selected to look great in the garden and arrangements. The bumblebee collection includes pollinator-favorite Kelsey
Sunshine collarette and the coral pink decorative Great Silence. Or for a big splash of purple try the Berry Spritz dinnerplate collection (longfield-gardens.com) with lavender-pink, lilac, and eggplant purple blooms.
Take pictures of your favorite combinations and notes of what you want to try next year and most importantly, enjoy the fantastic blooms. Fortunately, any flower combination is sure to brighten your day.
Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the recently released Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD instant video series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Longfield Gardens for her expertise to write this article. Her website is MelindaMyers.com
Indiana AG Todd Rokita faces three new disciplinary charges
By CASEY SMITH Indiana Capital Chronicle
The Indiana Supreme Court Disciplinary Commission filed a new round of charges Friday, Jan. 31 against Attorney General Todd Rokita — this time surrounding his defiant response to a prior reprimand.
In a sworn affidavit, Rokita accepted responsibility for misconduct in exchange for a public reprimand last year. In its new complaint, the commission found
Average rate on 30-year mortgage lowers for second week
The Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, or Freddie Mac, reported Thursday, Jan. 30 the rate for 30-year mortgages has lowered for the second week in a row. However, at 6.95%, rates remain high.
“Driven by these higher rates and a persistent supply shortage, affordability hurdles still exist for many homebuyers and a significant number of them remain on the sidelines,” Freddie Mac’s Chief Economist Sam Khater writes.
The 30-year mortgage rate is 0.01% lower than last week’s, at 6.96%. It averaged 6.63% a year ago.
Borrowing costs on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages also lowered this week, from 6.12% to 6.16%. It averaged 5.94% a year ago, according to Freddie Mac.
Several factors can influence the rates of mortgages, such as the bond market’s reaction to Federal Reserve interest rate policy decisions. Last September, the 30-year mortgage rate fell to a two-year low, but has risen since then, following an increase in the 10-year Treasury yield, which lenders use to guide their pricing of home loans.
The Treasury yield reached 4.79% two weeks ago from 3.62% in September amid worries in-
flation will stay higher than the Fed’s 2% target. A solid economy and fears about economic polices from President Donald Trump have also caused bond yields to rise. On Thursday, the 10-year Treasury yield was at 4.53%.
Heightened mortgage rates, which can cost borrowers hundreds more each month, can discouraged home sales. The heightened mortgage rates of recent years have come alongside a home sales slump that has lasted since 2022.
While the last three months of 2024 saw a rise in pre-owned home sales, the year overall was the worst for home sales in nearly 30 years, continuing and outdoing the low home sales of 2023.
Information on pending home sales suggests these trends will continue. Pending home sales in December 2024 fell 5.5%, according to a report by the National Association of Realtors Thursday, Jan. 30. There is usually a month or two between a contract signing and finalization of a home sale, which makes pending home sales a predictor for completed home sales in the future.
Decreasing home sales has allowed the number of properties for sale to increase. There are 25% more available properties this January than January 2024
according to Realtor.com reports.
The Federal Reserve left its interest rates at 4.25-4.5% at their the Federal Open Market Committee on Wednesday, Jan. 29, citing an “uncertain economic outlook.” The organization had cut interest rates three times in 2024.
“With the Fed on hold, we do expect that longer-term rates, including mortgage rates, will also stay within a narrow range for the foreseeable future,” said Chief Economist Mike Fratatoni of the Mortgage Banker’s Association.
Rokita almost immediately released a statement contradicting his admission.
Rokita now faces new charges for making false statements to the Supreme Court in the conditional agreement and affidavit; engaging in dishonest behavior and misrepresenting to the Supreme Court that he accepted responsibility for his misconduct; and violating a third rule for issuing a press release that contradicted his agreement.
The underlying case stemmed from Rokita’s televised comments about Indianapolis doctor Caitlin Bernard, who oversaw a medication abortion for a 10-year-old rape victim from Ohio in 2022.
Rokita was ultimately reprimanded late last year. Bernard, an OB-GYN, was also disciplined before the Medical Licensing Board for discussing the procedure publicly.
Two hours after the high court handed down the reprimand, Rokita issued a public press release in which he maintained his statements about Bernard had been “truthful.” He said he agreed to the reprimand to bring the case to a conclusion in order to save taxpayers money.
Central to the disciplinary commission’s complaint is Rokita’s sworn conditional agreement regarding his discipline, and a subsequent press release issued by the attorney general.
In a 2022 interview with Fox News commentator Jesse Watters, Rokita called Bernard an “activist acting as a doctor” and said his office would be investigating her conduct.
That November, a split-decision and public reprimand from Continued on page 11
Grievances filed soon after by an Indiana doctor and attorney — questioning whether Rokita was sincere and contrite when he entered into the conditional agreement — resulted in the disciplinary commission opening a second investigation.
A GREAT ADDITION TO ANY GARDEN Dinnerplate dahlias, like this Berry Spritz collection, can grow up to 10 inches across on four- to five-foot-tall plants. Photo courtesy of Longfield-Gardens.com
ATTORNEY GENERAL TODD ROKITA
OLD VALENTINE DISPLAY — An old valentine display will be at Akron Public Library, 205 E. Rochester St., Akron, through the month of February. The unique collection of old valentines dating back to the early 1900s, along with a display of Boyds and Bearington Bears, courtesy of library director, Janet Hawley. The valentines belonged to her father, Paul Bowen. Photo provided by Akron Public Library.
Kewanna Town Council will meet at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6, at Kewanna Town Hall, 308 S. Logan St., Kewanna.
—o—
Kewanna Union Township Public Library, 210 E. Main St., Rochester, will be hosting a valentine craft party at 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6. All area youth are welcome to attend this free event.
—o—
Board of Works meeting will be at 8:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 7, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
—o—
Park board will meet at 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 10, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
—o—
Northern Indiana Community Foundation has announced scholarship applications are available and due by 3 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11. To learn more, visit nicf.org or call (574) 223-2022.
—o—
Akron Carnegie Public Library will host chair exercises at 10 a.m. and bingo at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, at 205 E. Rochester St., Akron.
—o—
There will be a blood drive from 1-6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13, at Rochester Church of Christ, 120 E. Fifth St., Rochester. Call (800) 733-7267 or visit RedCrossBlood. org to schedule an appointment.
—o—
The next commissioner’s meeting will be Tuesday, Feb. 18, at the County Annex Building, located at 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
—o—
The next county council meeting will be at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19, at the County Annex
Building, located at 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
—o—
The 2025 Indiana 4-H dog volunteers workshop will be held on Saturday, Feb. 22. Any 4-H member in grades eighth and above is welcome to attend. If you are passionate about judging or volunteering, register before Wednesday, Feb. 19 at 25dogvolunteer.4honline.com.
To learn more, visit purdue.ag/4HDogVolunteers. Must be accompanied by an adult.
—o—
Father Daughter dance sponsored by Psi Iota Xi will be from 5:30-8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, in the Rochester High School cafeteria. The dance is for children ages third through sixth grade. The dress code is formal. Tickets are $15 each. Both child and father will need tickets for the dance. For more information contact any member, call or text (574) 835-1927.
—o—
College Goal Sunday is Indiana’s largest FAFSA filing event. Get free help filing your FAFSA. It will be at 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23. Visit College GoalSunday.org for more information.
—o—
4-H enrollment and re-enrollment is now open. Active members and volunteers must be re-enrolled every year. Enroll now at v2.4honline.com.
—o—
Free support program for moms who have lost a child, or any individual dealing with grief, “Grieving Moms Finding Hope,” meets at 6 p.m. Mondays in the Recovery Cafe, 715 Main St., Rochester.
—o—
Families Helping Families, a nonprofit organization, is in need of formula and diapers for the com-
munity. If interested in donating or in need of formula and/or diapers, stop by from 2-5 p.m. Monday, at the Solid Rock Church, 913 Main St., Rochester. For more information, call Michelle Skiles at (574) 835-8813.
—o—
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.
—o—
Free monthly books for kids under five years old. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is giving away free books for your children. Enroll online, and your first book will come in the mail within two months. Books will arrive monthly until your child is five years old. Funded in part by a grant from the Fulton County Women’s Giving Circle and the Fulton County Community Foundation. For more information visit the website at imaginationlibrary.com/check-availability/
—o—
After school programs are held at the Youth Outlet Center from 3-5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The program is designed for students in sixth to 12th grade. A hot dinner is served daily and clubs are offered for all students. Transportation is available. For more information about this program, contact The Outlet Youth Center, 491 Apache Drive, Rochester. Call (574) 233-5437 or email office@theoutletyouthcenter.org.
Legislators talk gambling expansions
By LESLIE BONILLA MUÑIZ and WHITNEY DOWNARD Indiana Capital Chronicle
Just six months after a former Indiana lawmaker was sentenced to a year in federal prison for gambling-related corruption, industry expansion proposals are moving through the Legislature.
The state’s top two lawmakers say despite the controversy, they can’t ignore the industry any longer. Last session, they agreed to take a break from legislation.
“I have no defense of my former colleague,” Republican House Speaker Todd Huston told reporters on Thursday, Jan. 30.
Ex-Rep. Sean Eberhart was nabbed for accepting a lucrative job opportunity with a gambling company Spectacle Entertainment in exchange for supporting
legislation in 2019 – and pushing for advantageous changes – that benefited the company. Another former lawmaker was sentenced in 2022 for gambling-related election finance schemes.
Still, Huston said, “We just can’t stand still … Like any … industry that is an important component of our state, there should be continual discussions about what ends up happening.”
His caucus isn’t standing still.
A House GOP bill legalizing online lottery and casino gambling – which could quickly earn casinos and the state millions – advanced through committee on Tuesday, Jan. 28. So did legislation allowing taverns, charitable organizations and others to use electronic pull tabs.
Senate President Pro Tempore Rodric Bray said Eberhart’s con-
viction “never leaves my mind” when it comes to bills concerning the gambling industry. He added lawmakers need to be particularly mindful about such legislation and its impacts.
“Obviously, gaming is a big industry in the state of Indiana … a challenging industry, but an industry that’s very helpful to the state of Indiana,” Bray said.
But when it came to expansions, such as iGaming, Bray said he put more emphasis on good policymaking over whether an action could bring in additional revenue. Leaders have urged their colleagues to be fiscally restrained this budget cycle after a December forecast predicted only moderate growth over the next two years.
“I don’t think it’s good policy to chase revenue. I think you have to decide what the right policy is and then maybe the revenue comes,” Bray said. “But if you’re chasing revenue that way, you’re probably not making good policy decisions.”
A Senate bill allowing the relocation of a casino license is facing a tougher path. The author pulled the bill during committee on Wednesday, Jan. 29, then told the Capital Chronicle that he doesn’t intend to allow a vote, citing strong opposition.
Senior Reporter Casey Smith contributed.
Heart disease in women
By RENAE BICKLE BSN, RN Woodlawn Health
Editor’s Note: Renae Bickle works as a nurse in the Cardiopulmonary Department at Woodlawn Health
This year on Friday, Feb. 7, it is National Wear Red Day. This day is dedicated to spreading awareness about heart disease and how you can help to both lower your risk and recognize early signs and symptoms. One of the most dangerous outcomes of heart disease is a heart attack. A heart attack occurs when the blood vessels supplying the heart with oxygenated blood become blocked, causing heart muscle to die. Many know that the most common symptom related to a heart attack is chest pain or pressure. What many might not know is that sometimes, symptoms of a heart attack can present much milder and differently from person to person. Additionally, women in particular tend to have many differences when it comes to heart disease and heart attacks.
Per the American Heart Association, heart disease is the leading cause of death in women in the U.S. Unfortunately, for years women were not included in many medical studies regarding heart disease, as scientists did not believe at the time that it was a disease that affected women. However, researchers
found that not only is this disease very prevalent in women, but also, that heart disease is less likely to be noticed in women due to milder/differing symptoms, it tends to occur about ten years later in life than it does for men, and that women are more likely to die after having a heart attack. Additionally, regardless of lifestyle choices, women are put at increased risk for heart disease. For example, menopausal symptoms such as night sweats and hot flashes as well as conditions in pregnancy such as preeclampsia or eclampsia can result in high blood pressure, thus increasing your risk. Also, pregnancy can result in other conditions such as gestational diabetes, which can also increase your risk for heart disease later in life (Williamson, 2024).
Knowing that women are at high risk for developing heart disease, it is important to be able to recognize early signs and symptoms of a possible heart attack. Early intervention is key, and being able to recognize symptoms early could be the difference between life or death. Something to keep in mind is “time equals muscle,” meaning the more time that the heart is without oxygen, the more muscle that endures irreversible damage.
women have also presented with the following symptoms: dizziness, nausea, pain in the neck, indigestion or heartburn, feeling faint, extreme tiredness, or pain that is near the bottom of their chest/upper stomach area. Additionally, when women do feel chest pain, this can often feel milder than the “crushing sensation” many men describe, causing them to associate the pain with another cause (American Heart Association, 2020; American Heart Association News, 2020).
Regardless of whether you believe your symptoms are heart related or not, if you experience any of these symptoms and have known risk factors for heart dis-
ease such as (but not limited to) family history, smoking, poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, or you are 65 or older, do not hesitate to call 911 or have someone drive you to a local emergency room to be evaluated. It is never a bad idea to rule out a heart attack and to act quickly, before irreversible damage is done. For more information, the American Heart Association is a wonderful resource regarding this information, as well as healthy lifestyle tips and tricks.
As mentioned before, common symptoms of a heart attack are chest pain/pressure,
TOP TEN FRESHMEN — Rochester High School has announced the second quarter top ten freshmen at RHS. In front from left are Sophie Beehler, Adison Hayes, Quinn Gruss, Madeline Bailon and Savannah Gudas. In the back row from left are Grayson Miller, Grant McGlothlin, Mitchell Clark, Ellie Straeter and Elise Enyart. Photo provided by Rochester High School.
TOP TEN JUNIORS — Rochester High School has announced the second quarter top ten juniors at RHS. In front from left are Jesse Smith, Charlotte Perry, Allyson Calloway and Olivia Bailey. In the back row from left are Carlos Plascencia, Lincoln Holder, Grant Bailey and Andres Molina. Not pictured are Harrison Dunwoody, Grant Clark and Gavin Mollencupp. Photo provided by Rochester High School.
TOP TEN SENIORS —Rochester High School has announced the second quarter top ten seniors at RHS. In front from left Darrah Strasser, Ava Thomas, Ella McCarter, Lillee Lett and Mia Howdeshell. In the back row from left are Maddox Lahrman, Owen Prater, Davis Renie and Reece Johnson. Not pictured is Audrey Bolinger. Photo provided by Rochester High School.
TOP TEN SOPHOMORES —Rochester High School has announced the second quarter top ten sophomores at RHS. In front from left are Alexander Porterfield, Kale Shotts, Adam Reinhold, Anne Horban and Kelsey Pearson. In the back row from left are Abriella St. Martin, Sydney Bauman, Brailyn Hunter, Aubrey Wilson and Joel Criollo. Not pictured is Aubrey Widman. Photo provided by Rochester High School.
RENAE BICKLE BSN, RN pain in the jaw, shortness of breath, sweating, or pain radiating down an arm. However,
February happenings at Akron Carnegie Public Library
Akron Carnegie Public Library is offering the following events in February.
Love Your Library Month
February is “Love Your Library” month. Show a little love by filling in your conversation heart on why you love the library. These fun, heartfelt notes will be posted so others can see what everyone has to say. Don’t forget to put your best guess in the jar to correctly guess the number of candies in the container.
Blind Date With A Book Spice up your reading life by going on a blind date with a book. The library staff have wrapped books that they thought you should read. Will your “dream date” be a thriller? A romance? A mystery? What will you choose for your blind date? Rate the matching skills and let the staff
know how they did.
Old Valentine Display
On display through the month of February is a unique collection of old valentines dating back to the early 1900s, along with an adorable display of Boyds/Bearington Bears, courtesy of Library Director Janet Hawley. The valentines belonged to her father, Paul Bowen.
Puzzle Mania Puzzle mania returns. Work on a puzzle during normal business hours 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. There is a large variety of puzzles that you can borrow and work on in the comfort of your own home and time frame. Puzzle mania will run from February to March.
Second Seasons Fitness
Second Seasons Fitness is held
Eel River Band
Tuesday and Thursday. It is a great place to get a dedicated hour in of moving your body twice a week at 10 a.m. with chair exercises and a gentle cardio workout program, for those ages 50 and older. A variety of principles are covered to help keep the body, spirit and mind at its best. Show yourself a little love during the month of February by putting yourself first and attending these free classes.
Board of Trustees Meeting Board of trustees will meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 4, in the community room.
Adult Reader’s Book Club
Adult Reader’s Book Club meets at 5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6. Not your ordinary book club, more like a book talk. Perfect for those who like to choose what to read versus reading something you may not be interested in. You’re in and out in one hour.
Second Seasons Senior Bingo
It’s time for Second Seasons Senior Bingo at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11. Join for an hour of bingo. Invite a friend and make it a special day out. It will last approximately one hour.
Preschool Story Hour
Preschool story hour resumes for the spring session at 10 a.m Wednesday, Feb. 12. The theme is “Brilliant Beginnings.” Children ages 3-6 are welcome to hear stories, sing songs, make a craft and have an hour of fun with Miss Nicole. For questions on this program, don’t hesitate to stop in or call (574) 893-4113.
Dining With Diabetes
Dining With Diabetes is a four week course sponsored by the Fulton County Health Department in conjunction with the Fulton County Purdue Extension Office. Dates and topics for learning tips on how to manage your diabetes are as follows:
• Feb. 14, diabetes/snacks and appetizers.
• Feb. 21, carbs and sweeteners/desserts.
• Feb. 28, fats and sodium/ main dishes.
• March 7, putting it all together/side dishes.
These classes are from 2-4 p.m. and do require sign-up by calling the extension office (574) 223-3397 or by registering at cvent.me/V52akM.
Be Mine Bingo
Be Mine Bingo will be at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 14. Join for an evening of valentine fun whether you’re single, on a date, or want to bring your whole family. This is a family-friendly event and the library is ready to help you make unforgettable memories. Bring a valentine candy, treat, or small gift for each person in your group to be used for prizes during the evening. Registration is required. Call (574) 893-4113 or stop in to sign up during normal business hours, 9 a.m to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.
The Chain Gang
The Chain Gang will meet at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18. Spend the afternoon with those who enjoy crocheting, knitting, sewing or needlepoint. Bring your materials with you and work alongside others who enjoy these hobbies. 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
Attention tweens, if you are in grades 5-8 this program is for you. The Tween Scene meets the third Wednesday of the month. The next program will be at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19. This month is cooking with Nicole. Sign-up is required one week before class, which helps in plan-
ning for the program. For more information or to sign up, ask one of the staff or call (574) 8934113.
Baby And 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 five-week program begins at 9:30 a.m. Thursdays, starting Feb. 20. It is specifically designed for children 0-2 years old. Join each week for a half hour of songs, rhymes, stories and cuddles with your child.
Jane Austen Tea Party
You are cordially invited to the Jane Austen Tea Party at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22. Each Jane Austen lover is encouraged to dress in their best ensemble and come ready to be enamored with afternoon tea, music and a variety of activities geared toward this time period. This program does require pre-registration. Visit the library to sign up or call (574) 893-4113.
Lego Club Elementary kids can explore their creativity with Legos. There is a very large collection of Legos for the kids to play with. It will be from 4-5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24. Stimulate the builders of tomorrow by creatively stretching kids’ imaginations with Lego play, adventure and friends.
Adult Crafty Corner
Adult Crafty Corner will be at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27. Be sure to sign up by Thursday, Feb. 20, to make a pretty St. Patrick’s Day door hanger that reads, “Not lucky, just blessed.” Call (574) 893-4113, or stop in and sign up in person. No registrations will be taken online.
Women’s
euchre scores for
January
A women’s euchre group has released scores for January’s euchre games.
First Group, Women’s Sunday Scores for the women’s Sunday group are:
Boys Basketball Drew Bowers scored 23 points, and Tanner Reinartz hit four 3-pointers and added 19 points as the Rochester boys basketball team pulled away in the final minute to beat North Miami 69-58 at the RHS gym Saturday, Feb. 1.
Jonas Kiser added nine points, all in the second half.
Rochester made 14 of 17 free throws in the fourth quarter and 22 of 28 for the game. North Miami was 7 for 9 from the line.
North Miami cut what had been a nine-point deficit down to 57-56 on a Ryan Meredith putback with just under three minutes left, but Bowers hit a free throw, and Kiser turned a putback into a 3-point play to get the lead to five.
After a Caden Clingaman hanging layup for North Miami, Rochester closed by hitting eight consecutive free throws in the final 44 seconds.
Trailing by six points, Rochester boys basketball assistant coach Luke Smith detailed offensive adjustments the team needed to make on a grease board during halftime against Northfield at Kaltenmark Gym Friday, Jan. 31.
Coach Rob Malchow responded to Smith with a more powerful, if perhaps somewhat contradictory, message. The way they would get back in the game had to do with their defense. The defense would trigger their offense.
That message won out as the Zebras went on a 23-0 run covering the third and fourth quarters, holding Northfield scoreless for over eight minutes as they rallied from an eight-point deficit to win 60-44.
Bowers led Rochester with 23 points, including 11 in a span of 80 seconds in the third quarter that necessitated two Northfield timeouts.
Reinartz added 13, including eight in the fourth quarter. Bryce Baugher, Kiser and Grant Clark combined for 15
points, all in the second half.
Rochester’s 16-point final margin equaled their largest lead of the game.
Rochester boys basketball senior point guard Drew Bowers said playing with Tanner Reinartz and Owen Prater is beneficial because opponents cannot concentrate their defensive energy just on him.
“You’ve got to pick your poison, I guess,” Bowers said.
Bowers delivered poison by the barrelful to host Caston Tuesday, Jan. 28, scoring every which way and finishing with 48 points in a 76-56 Zebra win.
Bowers came in averaging 13.3 points per game.
Reinartz added 15 for Rochester, who improved to 9-3. Logan Mollenkopf had 18, and Lane Hook added 15 for Caston, who fell to 5-8.
The school record for points in a game is 97, which Guy Barr set against Bremen in the peach basket era of 1908.
The IHSAA keeps a publicly available database of every 50-point game on its website. According to the website, in addition to Barr’s game, Steve Ruckman had games of 52 and 50 against Peru and Northfield, respectively, in January 1989.
Bowers’ output against Caston would appear to be the most by a Rochester player since then.
Girls Basketball
Audrey Bolinger, Rylee Clevenger and Ella McCarter were the honorees of the night, and they wore T-shirts and sashes that said as much.
The Rochester girls basketball seniors reveled in a senior night home win in their honor, but it was their sophomore teammates Aubrey Wilson and Brailyn Hunter who combined for all three Lady Z field goals in the fourth quarter as they beat Northfield 38-32 at the RHS gym Thursday.
Wilson scored 13 points, and McCarter added 11 for Rochester, who finished the regular season 16-6 overall and 6-3 in the Three Rivers Conference.
Sophomore Laney Haupert hit four 3-pointers and scored a game-high 18 for Northfield, who dropped to 13-8, 6-3.
Rochester and Northfield finished in a tie for third in the TRC. Wabash and Whitko (8-1) shared the TRC title.
The Rochester girls basketball team set a season-high for
points scored in a game against visiting Taylor and a record for most points scored in the Burrus era as coach Monday, Jan. 27.
Feasting off the Lady Titans’ 30 turnovers and hitting nine 3-pointers, Rochester rolled to a 58-29 win that improved their record to 15-6.
Clevenger made five 3-pointers and scored 21 points, Wilson had 13, and McCarter had 12 for the Lady Zs.
Rochester scored 52 points on two previous occasions under Burrus, who became the coach in 2022.
They led this game 52-22 after three quarters.
Boys Wrestling
Led by five individual champions, the Rochester boys wrestling team scored 166 points and finished third out of 10 teams at the Plymouth sectional Saturday, Feb. 1.
The champions included state-ranked wrestlers Layne Horn (132), Brant Beck (157), Wyatt Davis (175) and Declan Gard (HWT), and junior Braddock Behling also won a title at 150.
In addition to the five champions, freshman Derek Wortley (190) and junior Mason Hisey (215) also advanced to the regional by finishing in the top four in their weight class.
Wortley took second, and Hisey took third.
Both Horn and Beck won all three of their matches by first-period fall.
Wortley pinned his first two opponents to reach the final before losing by fall to Winamac’s
Tearson Wolford in the final.
Hisey went 3-1 with three falls on the day and will be making his first regional appearance.
The regional will be at Rochester at 9 a.m. this Saturday, Feb. 8.
Manitou Training Center has a full-time opening for a DSP (Direct Support Staff) working with individuals with developemntal disabilities. Valid driver’s license required. No experience necessary, training is provided. Apply at 1690 E. Lucas St., Rochester, IN or online at www.msdcin.org
state Supreme Court justices found he had violated two of the Rules of Professional Conduct for lawyers:
They said Rokita’s comments constituted an “extrajudicial statement” he knew — or reasonably should have known — would be publicly disseminated and would prejudice related legal proceedings.
They also said his statements had “no substantial purpose” other than to embarrass or burden Dr. Caitlin Bernard.
Rokita and the commission agreed to the discipline in the conditional agreement. In a sworn affidavit, Rokita admitted to the two violations and acknowledged he couldn’t have defended himself successfully on the charges if the matter were tried.
The parties disputed over a third charge — engaging in conduct “that is prejudicial to the administration of justice” — which the commission agreed to dismiss in exchange for “admission to misconduct” on the others.
Rokita’s punishment included a public reprimand and $250 in court costs.
But the same day the reprimand was handed down, Rokita shared a lengthy and unrepentant statement, defending his “true” remarks in which he attacked the news media, medical field and “cancel culture.”
The disciplinary commission pointed to those remarks — as well as earlier drafts of the statement obtained by subpoena, and a recent quote provided to the Indiana Lawyer — as evidence of Rokita’s “lack of candor and dishonesty to the Court” after he agreed to accept responsibility for misconduct.
Rokita continued to refute on Friday, however. What Happens Next
When someone files a grievance against a lawyer with the Disciplinary Commission of the Indiana Supreme Court, the lawyer is contacted and is required to respond in writing to the complaint.
After that initial investigation, the commission’s executive director weighs if there is probable lawyer misconduct. If not, the grievance is dismissed and the case is never public. If the director believes there is, then the full disciplinary commission reviews the matter.
The full commission is a citizen board made up of seven lawyers and two non-lawyers. They are appointed by the Indiana Supreme Court.
If the commission believes that the lawyer has engaged in misconduct for which they should be disciplined, it files a complaint with the Clerk of the Supreme Court formally charging the lawyer with misconduct.
That is the point where a case becomes public. Preceding deliberations are not public record.
If the commission and the lawyer can agree to the facts of the case and an appropriate disciplinary sanction, a hearing can be avoided. The agreement is submitted to the Supreme Court for approval. If the Court accepts the agreement, the agreed sanction is imposed by the Supreme Court and the case is over. If not, there is a hearing.
A hearing officer is then appointed by the Supreme Court to hear the evidence. The commission acts as prosecutor in the case and must prove its charges with a higher burden
of proof than in a civil case. The hearing officer’s responsibilities are like those of a trial court judge, except that the hearing officer cannot make a final decision in the case.
The hearing officer makes a report on the case to the Supreme Court, which makes a final decision. Sanctions depend on the seriousness of the case. Possible sanctions include:
• a private or public reprimand;
• suspension from practice for a set period of time;
• suspension from practice with reinstatement only after the lawyer proves fitness; and
• permanent disbarment.
The vast majority of grievances filed with the commission are dismissed.
P ublic A uctions
Online Silver and Coin Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m.
Thursday, Feb. 6. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Silver dollars, graded coins, proof and mint sets, coin books. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Online Coin Auction
Bidding open until 7 p.m.
Sunday, Feb. 9. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Gold, silver dollars, silver bars, platinum rounds, coin books, large cents. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction. com.
Orender Online Real Estate Auction
Bidding open until 5 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12. Property lo-
cated at 14218 12th Road, Plymouth. Bid online at oakcrestauctions.com.
Online Only Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Vehicles, trailers, farm equipment, fleet vehicles, boats, cars. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Valley FFA forestry team headed to nationals
The Tippecanoe Valley FFA forestry team is headed to nationals after winning the state competition.
The team competed at state on Dec. 14 at Purdue University in West Lafayette. Members included Aaron Backus, Lillian Dunbar, Keith Haney and Sienna Holder, with FFA Advisor Michael Jones coaching the team. Backus was the fourth high individual, with Dunbar the fifth high individual and Haney the seventh high individual.
The team will compete at nationals in Weston, W. Va., in July. Also on Dec. 14 at Purdue, the
Valley entomology team competed, finishing seventh out of 49 teams.
Local students named to dean’s/president’s lists
The following local students were recently named to the dean’s list of their respective colleges/ universities: Lewis University Rochester — Madilyn Calloway The Citadel Rochester — Alex Deming
The following local students were recently named to the president’s list of their respective colleges/universities:
The University of Alabama Rochester — Carley Hott The Citadel Rochester — Alex Deming
Deming was also awarded gold stars for fall 2024 at The Citadel. Gold stars are awarded to cadets and students at The Citadel who achieved a 3.7 grade point average or higher. Those cadets may wear gold stars on their uniforms throughout the semester following their academic achievement. A gold star recognition certificate is awarded to non-cadet students who meet the requirements; veteran and active duty students are also awarded challenge coins.
STATE FORESTRY CHAMPIONS The Tippecanoe Valley FFA forestry team placed first in the state competition on Dec. 14. From left are team members Lillian Dunbar, Keith Haney, Sienna Holder and Aaron Backus. Photo provided by Michael Jones.
VALLEY STATE ENTOMOLOGY TEAM The Tippecanoe Valley FFA entomology team finished seventh in the state competition on Dec. 14. From left are team members Aaron Babbitt, Trista Van Doren, Temperance Caudill and Guadelupe Jimenez Baca. Photo provided by Michael Jones.
Trista Van Doren was the sixth high individual, with Aaron Babbitt, Temperance Caudill and
Guadelupe Jimenez Baca also on the team. The team was coached by FFA Advisor Hope Slagle.
