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November 10-12, 2018
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 14 years.
 

Happy Veterans' Day to the Men and Women
Who Served so Bravely for Our Freedom

1st Quarter Honor Roll for Parkway High School - Congratulations!
by Lisa Miller

SENIORS

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Jared Anderson, Alistair Fahncke, Matthew Gaerke, KeAndra Godsey, Melissa Hauter, Mecaylah Hesse, Colton Kraner, Madison Kroeger, Faith Rollins, Olivia Scott, Tessa Thatcher

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)
Molly Baltzell, Shay Bolton, Alexandria Ford, Alyssa Miller, Nicholas Riley, Noah Riley, Owen Sinning, Preston Stober, Bailey Strickler, Isabella Strunk, Loren Stukey, Grace Swander

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Evan Boroff, Kara Heck, Conner Lyons, Rachel Perry, Haylee Stukey, Jonathan Wehe

JUNIORS

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Rachel Barrett, Alexis Cairns, Macy Henkle, McKenna Johnson, Kristine Kirby, Jason Luth, Kyle Roth, Olivia Rutledge, Hailey Stephenson, Alexander Tisdale, Ashlyn White

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Cory Agler, Carley Boeckman, Aaron Bruns, Breyden Bruns, Ansley Burtch, Claire Eichler, Leah Harshman, Nicholas Hawk, Ryan Hesse, Clarissa Krogman, Brooke May, Sophia Miller, Kiersten Roehm, Gavin Stober, Shaelyn Thomas, Sydney Yoder

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Tori Albright, Tim Bloos, Ashlyn Cornett, Sidney Doner, Ryann Fox, Emma Gause, Courtney Harding, Katie Hauter, Lily Hipply, Caleb Kinney, Bryce Lowery, Hailey Roberts, Grace Rogers, David Sheets, McKenna Temple, Corey Walls, Emily Zimmerman

SOPHOMORES

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Avery Boroff, Kaden Boroff, Treya Conn, Remi' Fokine, Savanna Freeman, Sierra Freeman, Zoie Huffman, Brayton Luginbill, Lydia Miller, Kelsey Nichols, Elijah Rich, Claire Rutledge, Makenna Schumm, Mackenzie Springer

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Abigail Browning, Grace Etgen, Brendan Etzcorn, Justan Felver, Dylan Hughes, Kayla Kuhn, Tyler Tinkham, Sydney Waters

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Breanna Beeks, Alexzandra Cottman, Brody Dorsten, Graham Farmer, Audrey Ford, Georgia Gangwer, Hunter Gibson, Madalyn Heindel, Clara Hellwarth, Claire Langenkamp, Serena McMurry, Bryce Mihm, Andrea Miller, Chaz Neuenschwander, Haydn Ridenour, McKayla Sites, Seth Stukey

FRESHMEN

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Elise Darrigan, Danielle Huff, Riley Samples, Benjamin Sheppard

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Kameryn Altenbach, Cora Barna, Grant Bollenbacher, Leah Eichler, Alexander Gile, Lily Haver, Cami High, Molly Hileman, Paige Jackson, Chasity McGhee, Mersaydes Parsons, Raegan Roehm, Jacob Rogers, Gabriel Schaaf, Ashtyn Sipe, Caden Slusher, Makenzie Stephenson, Blake Strickler, Gracyn Temple, Briana Webb

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Aiden Anderson, Alex Anderson, Jace Armstrong, Bailey Berry, Hunter Bruns, Camdyn Clay, Chase Heitkamp, Jaden Hileman, Parker Mihm, Cade Schoenleben, Chantry Simon, Avamaria Strunk, Montanna Vann, Lane Weirrick

Mercer County Board of Elections Poll Worker Honored
The Villages of Mendon and Rockford would like express our gratitude to Vernon Wynk for his services over the 10+ years on election days !  Vernon has been a valuable member of the Mercer County Board of Elections team and we will greatly miss him.   Thank you Vern !  Enjoy your retirement. 

At left - Dan Minnich Voting Location Manager in Rockford and Vernon Wynk.

 
November 10-12, 2018
 

Shanes Crossing Historical Society Speaker Harrison Frech
Topic: Cholera Plague of 1854 in Willshire
The next meeting of the Shanes Crossing Historical Society will be held on 
November 19th at 7 pm in the museum located on East Columbia Street in
Rockford.  Our guest speaker will be Harrison Frech.  Harrison has spoken at
many of our meetings and the audience enjoys hearing him tell stories about
some of the many findings from his extensive studies of our local history.  At 
this meeting he will present his findings of the cholera plague of 1854 in
Willshire.  The public is invited to attend the meeting.

Rockford Chamber of Commerce Officers Needed
  
The Rockford Ohio Chamber of Commerce is looking for area business
owners and members who are interested in holding positions for the
following roles: President, Treasurer, Secretary. There are also three
board member positions available. Interested parties can contact the
chamber by emailing chamber@rockfordalive.org or contacting Lisa Kuhn
at the Village Hall - 419-363-3032 ext 1.
  
The Executive Committee will serve as the guiding force and leadership
for the Chamber, while working with Chamber members on special
projects and other volunteer and fundraising opportunities. It is the
goal of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce to assist in actively
promoting area businesses, increasing membership and develop engaging
networking opportunities, while raising funds to reinvest back into
our business community. Current and new Chamber members can anticipate
a more focused direction and open lines of communication in the years
to come.
  
Our Mission: The Rockford Chamber of Commerce, Inc., exists to bring
together business, government, and civic interests to enhance the
economic and social environment of the Rockford, Ohio, area. The
Rockford Chamber is to be an advocate of as well as a means for
business improvement and economic growth while at the same time
providing benefits to its members and to the community at large. Visit
the Chamber on the web at www.rockfordalive.org, or on facebook at
https://www.facebook.com/rockfordohiochamberofcommerce/

Parkway School Board Agenda by Sally Cox for November 13, 2018

Stateline Writers Club to Meet
The Stateline Writers Club is scheduled to meet at 10 a.m. on Saturday, November 17,  On this date only, the meeting place will be the St. Marys library.  The suggested writing topic is "a winter debacle."   Afterwards, a lesson on how to compose a book-jacket autobiography will be presented.  The public is welcome to attend.

Soup Supper and Bake Sale Coming to Mendon
The Mercer United Methodist Church is having an All You Can Eat Soup Supper and Bake Sale, Saturday November 10, 2018 from 4:30 – 7:00 pm. We are located at 5595 Mercer Road at the junction of State Routes 33 and 707 in Mercer, OH. There will be homemade Chili, Pastor Craig’s special HOT chili, Vegetable & Noodle soups; Sloppy Joes & Chicken Sandwiches, Hotdogs, Coney Dogs, Deluxe Salad Bar and delicious Homemade Pies and beverages.  Cost is $8.00 for adults 13 and up, kids 5-12 $5.00 and kids 4 and under free.

Carry outs are available.

We are also having a Bake Sale during the Soup Supper.  There will be homemade noodles, Angel food cakes, cookies, pies, popcorn balls, and lots more.

ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT VARIOUS MISSION PROJECTS

 
November 3-5, 2018
 

Retirement Party Planned for Mike Schaffner, U. S. Naval Chief Petty Officer
If you Know Mike, Come and Celebrate with him and his family!
"Chief Petty Officer Mike Schaffner, son of Francis (Moose) & Sandy Schaffner, Parkway class of 93, will retire from US Navy on November 30th. He cordially invites those who know him to an informal celebration of 24 years of service. Please join us on November 24th, 1~3 pm at Rockford community building. Mike requests no gifts, just come for a fun time. Refreshments provided. "

Rockford Club Meets in October

The Twenty-First Century Club members met on October 23, 2018 at Rockford United Methodist Church Cafe with Karla Butler, president and Toni Fisher vice-president presiding. The Club theme for the year is Remarkable Women.

A short meeting was completed with the reading of the minutes from September by secretary Kim Carr and the treasurer’s report. Role call was memorable concerts. Members were reminded to continue to bring items for the food pantry as well as plastic bottle caps and Walmart bags for the back pack program.

President Karla Butler then mentioned a remarkable woman named Emma Rowena Gatewood, who at the age of 67 decided to hike the Applacian Trail. She was an ultra light hiker, meaning she traveled without much of anything except a coat sewn from a shower curtain, back pack sewn from denim and a tent. Grandma Gatewood was the first woman to hike the 2,168 mile trail in the 1950’s. Her hike raised awareness for the need to preserve it when she was featured in the National Geographic Magazine.

Louisa Hemmelgarn presented a power point presentation program complete with music sung by the subject of the program,  Ella Ftizgerald. She had no traditional family life, but became the 1st Lady of Song as well as the most popular singer in the USA. Starting out in NY-Harlem, where she went to live after her mother died, Ella attended and Amatuer Night Contest at the Apollo Theater, and received 3 encores. An instant success, she sang with different bands in NYC until Marilyn Monroe gave her some help in Hollywood. Ella’s first smash hit was “A Tisket, a Tasket” something she wrote about the Nursery Rhyme for children. She even sang it in the movies later. In 1938 she sang a follow-up song, “I Found My Yellow Basket”, and her solo career took off in 1942. Her own invention, vocal jazz scat singing became popular. It is vocal improvisation with wordless vocables - nonsense syllables. People loved it. She sang for 40 years with the Philharmonic Orchestra at Carnegie Hall and was the first African American to sign at the Copacabana Night Club in New York. She founded a Child Care Center in 1976 for protecting children in foster care, and died at the age of 79 with diabetic complications.

Twyla Hayes reported on the Remarkable Woman, Ann Landers, famed advice columnist. Twyla asked, “From whom do you get advice?” Members were asked to share that person’s name and then offer some sage advice to the group later in the program. Twyla offered a biography of Ann Landers, a  Russian Jewish woman who was born in Souix City Iowa, and had a twin sister Abigail Van Buren, who was also an advice columnist. Ann Landers was born Esther Pauline Landers (called Eppy). The twins were bitter rivals for a decade, but both became syndicated and made it rich. They were actually very public in their dispute with each over which started when Abigail decided to become an advice columnist after Ann’s success. She did not discuss it or ask Ann if she was ok with that decision. Twyla said that Ann wanted to be a twin, but Abigail didn’t and there were ripples in their relationship even though they had a double wedding! Later they made up. Ann married Jules Ledderer, who founded a successful car rental company. Twyla said in comparing the two women on advice, Abby offered quick and often funny one-liners. Ann gave in-depth advice. Ann only gave bad advice 3 times over her 50 year career and had to recant her words on: wedding rice exploding birds; deadly Halloween candy; and trust fund money. She worked well into her early nineties taking her copyrighted column name with her. Then the members shared some funny and important advice – mainly from their moms!

The homemade refreshments were delicious by Cindy Canary and Ann Gage.

The next meeting will be held on November  27, 2018, 7 PM, at Hostess Rozann Maurer’s house in Mercer. Katherine Becket will be assisting Rozann with  refreshments. Members Ann Gage and Valerie Fritzinger will be providing the program on Barbara Walters and Grace Hopper.  Contact Sheila Baltzell at 419-733-3326 if you’d like to learn more about this club.

Remember to Vote on November 6, 2018

 
November 2, 2018
 

Parkway Schools Calendar of Events by Makayla McAvoy
for November 2018 - Click here for a printable version

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

SPRAY PAINT WORKSHOP PRESENTED BY LOCAL ARTIST
  
The Lake Area Arts Group will sponsor spray paint artist and Coldwater
resident Ben Heyne who will be offering a free workshop for students
on Saturday, November 17th from 10-11:30 . Participants will meet at
Armcorp Construction, 8511 St.Route 703 ,Celina, and spray paint their
own project. Heyne says " there are no rules in this type of medium
and any mistakes can be creative" He will be stressing this idea in
the workshop which is open to 7th thru 12th grade. Applications are
available from art teachers in area schools.
  
Heyne grew up with talented uncles who encouraged him and he tried all
types of art media during high school including jewelry making, drawing
and sculpture. Heyne says" The path with art is endless" and he hopes
to share his passion with students participating in the workshop. For
more information student can contact : m.bertke@hometowncable.net and
also check out Ben Heyne's Facebook page.
  
submitted by Mary Rampe, LAKE AREA ARTS GROUP

Santa Claus is Comin’ to the Niswonger

(Van Wert, OH) - It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Arriving at the Niswonger to kick off the Christmas season is Christmas Wonderland, a dazzling holiday spectacular for 2 shows only: Saturday, November 24 at 7:30 PM and Sunday, November 25 at 3 PM. Presented by Ciao! MedSpa, Christmas Wonderland features glittering costumes, a wonderful cast, and the highest kicking chorus girls this side of the North Pole.

The entire family can start Christmas in style as Santa and his merry helpers take you on an unforgettable Christmas Journey with your favorite Christmas songs. Holiday favorites include: ‘White Christmas,’ ‘Winter Wonderland,’ ‘Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,’ ‘Chestnuts Roasting By an Open Fire,’ ‘Jingle Bells,’ ‘Away in a Manger,’ ‘O Come All Ye Faithful,’ ‘Let it Snow,’ ‘Silent Night,’ ‘Hark the Herald Angels Sing,’ ‘Deck the Halls,’ ‘Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,’ ‘O Holy Night,’ and many more Christmas standards.

Christmas will arrive as the wonderful cast of singers and dancers from London and New York transform the stage into a magical winter wonderland of Christmas joy. With breathtaking glittering costumes, and spectacular sets and scenery, the show parades its way through the wonder of Christmas and the excitement of the holiday season.

Christmas Wonderland is a glamorous Broadway style presentation that has thrilled audiences in the USA, The U.K. and round the world. The spectacular show is produced by Spirit Productions and David King, the multi award-winning and internationally acclaimed British theatre producer who became known to American audiences through the megahit musical, Spirit of the Dance which became one of the biggest dance shows in the world, playing to more than 30 million people worldwide. Spirit shows have toured in more than 30 countries and they are the first producer from the Western world to have three consecutive tours in China. Spirit Productions owns The Palace Theatre in Myrtle Beach and The King’s Castle Theatre in Branson, Missouri, where their shows play year-round.

Along with Presenting Sponsor Ciao! MedSpa, the Robideau Family is the proud NPAC Family Sponsor for IGNITE 18-19. Season Sponsors include Chuck & Karen Koch, StateWide Ford Lincoln, and Van Wert Federal Savings Bank.

Tickets for Christmas Wonderland can be purchased at the Box Office Monday - Friday, 10 AM - 5 PM at 419-238-6722 and online at NPACVW.ORG.
 

The Niswonger Performing Arts Center is located at 10700 SR 118 S, Van Wert, Ohio.

Our Old Bookcase, November 1, 2018, Old Post Cards & Old Post Marks

Photo caption:  Vast Collection of Vintage Post Cards which have Rare Post Marks from Mercer County’s closed Post Offices will be on Exhibit, Sunday, November 11, 1:00 – 4:00 at the Mercer County Historical Museum.

OUR OLD BOOK CASE  By  Joyce L. Alig, President, Mercer County Historical Society, Inc.

Forgotten Post Card Photographs of Dance Halls where Dance Bands played for guests to dance with partners, at Gordon State Park at St. Marys, and Edgewater Park at Celina are displayed.

Fishing and eating and meeting Friends on West Bank Road at the White Front Lunch Room with Ben Adams, and Grubbs’ Cottages gave great memories to local senior citizens. 

Taking Boats out and stopping for a sandwich and gas at Coldwater Creek Landing provided cool refreshment on the Lake in the summertime.  Dancing on New Year’s Eve at Mercelina Park when it was so cold that the punch froze and the horses’ hooves froze to the Ice was part of the party.

Visit the Mercer County Historical Museum, Sunday afternoon, November 11, 2018, 1:00 – 4:00. 

See the Vintage Post Cards of local scenes by Post Card Collectors Sharon and Bob Poor & Dale Poeppelman in Room I.  See the Rare Post Marks from closed Mercer County’s closed Post Offices by former Celina citizen David Gray, in Room I.  Visit the once-in-a-lifetime collection of Post Cards from West Bank Road, on exhibit in Room II.  Do you have post cards and/or photographs to put on Exhibit for just this Sunday afternoon, November 11?  I hope so.

[Mercer County Historical Society President Joyce Alig, may be contacted at 3054 Burk-St. Henry Road, Saint Henry, OH 45883,  or histalig@bright.net or 419-678-2614.

 
November 1, 2018
 

Going to the Horse Races Benefit Planned

Saturday November 10th, 2018

At Rockford Community Building

Presale tickets:  $20.00/person, $30.00/couple. 

Tickets at the door are $25.00/person, $40.00/couple

Ticket includes meal, drinks, snacks.

Doors open at 5:00 pm        Meal: 5:30-6:30 pm
Horse Races start at 7 pm
Buy Your Own Stable Now to Join in the Race Fun!
Deadline for Stable Purchases in November 2, 2018.

There will be 50/50, live auction items, tip boards.

Proceeds Benefit Parkway Athletic Booster Club

Les Nichols 567-644-1483 or Cheryl Nichols

567-644-1482 OR nichols@bright.net

Remember to Vote on November 6, 2018

To Read Older Articles - Click Here

 
October 30-31, 2018
 

Reminder to the Parkway Community

Daylight saving time (DST) ends on Sunday, November 4, 2018 at 2 a.m. ET. Most Americans will set their clocks back an hour at this time. This makes for darker days, but they will gain an extra hour of sleep.

Rockford United Methodist Church Thanks Fremont Company

Rockford United Methodist Church would like to thank the Fremont Company and their employees for their generosity in donating $710.00.

Because of their kindness, the church will be able to purchase an AED to be stationed within the church for any future medical needs.

RUMC is very thankful for this donation from the Fremont Company and their employees!  Their stewardship will not go unnoticed.

Shown in the picture is L to R:

    Tyler Westgerdes- Fremont Production Manager

    Pastor Chip Steffy- Rockford United Methodist

    Ken Pond- Fremont Plant Manager

    Derek Pryer- H.R. Specialist

Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Member

Hometown Creations was opened in April 2016 as a small Home, Garden & Gift Store. Since opening, there have been several expansions to accommodate customers needs and increased inventory including customer favorites Specialty Foods and Crossroads Candles. Hometown Creations carry Ohio State Buckeye items, Celina Bulldog apparel and accessories, and are excited to announce the new customized school leggings. Hometown Creations is supportive in the community by participating Celina’s Special Events such as Midnight Gladness , the Holiday Open House, as well as others. During the Holiday Open House they began a tradition of cooking homemade soup over a open fire to share with their customers as a Thank You for all of their support throughout the year. Find them on their Facebook pages; HOMETOWN CREATIONS for home, garden and gifts and HOMETOWN CREATIONS APPAREL & ACCESSORIES for all of our Celina Apparel and Customized Leggings. They will soon launch their new website www.hometowncreationsllc.com so that customers may order leggings & various items with the option to pick up or ship. Be sure to stop by and visit this unique and charming gift store, you will certainly find something you will love! Hometown Creations is located at 5360 Fairground Rd, Celina and can be reached at 567-890-0635. Store hours vary and appointments are also available to schedule by phone or feel free to email them at hometowncreations@bright.net

Genealogical Society to Meet

The Mercer County Ohio Genealogical Society will meet Sunday, November 4th at 2:00 pm at the Richardson-Bretz Building, 115 West Fulton St. Celina, OH.  

Guest speaker will be Mindy Kremer, Senior Director of Development, Marketing and Community Relations at Mercer Health. 

Mercer Heath: Past, Present and Future

Since 1950, the Mercer Health organization has provided quality, local, healthcare services to Mercer County and the surrounding communities.  Today, Mercer Health offers a full continuum of healthcare services to our community with locations in Celina, Coldwater, Ft. Recovery, St. Henry and New Bremen and is slated to open a 60,000+ square foot, three-story expansion this Fall. Learn more about the history of your local healthcare provider, its local economic impact and its current journey of technology integration, expansion and more.

The public is welcome to attend. Refreshments served.

Parkway November 2018 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

 
October 27-29, 2018
 

Mom to Mom Sale
The Van Wert Co. Fair is having a Mom to Mom Sale on Saturday November 3rd. Early Bird doors open at 8, and general admission is at 9am. Tickets are $2.00 for general and $5.00 for early bird. To register call the office at 419-238-9270 or 419-203-7894. 

Be sure to top out at the YMCA after the Mom to Mom sale for their Ladies Day Out event from 10am to 2pm.

Parkway FFA Judges Soil at Hardin Northern
By: Mecaylah Hesse
Parkway FFA Reporter
19hessm@parkwayschools.org

Wednesday, September 19th, Parkway FFA took 28 participants to Hardin Northern soil judging competition. 21 of those members judged Rural soil and 7 judged Urban soil. Members had to determine different characteristics of the soil and determine what type of soil it was. Such characteristics include the filtration class, the depth, and the texture. As a team, Parkway’s Rural soil judging team took first place and Urban took thirteenth. As individuals, Jared Anderson placed highest for Parkway’s Rural soils team in third place and Faith Shellabarger placed highest for Parkway’s Urban soils team in thirty-second place. 

Rural Team

Urban Team

Click Here for Other Parkway FFA News

Parkway FFA Members Participate in State Ag Contests
By: Mecaylah Hesse
Parkway FFA Reporter
19hessm@parkwayschools.org

On October 5th, 2018 Parkway FFA members Colton Kraner, Noah Riley, and David Sheets along with former member Trevor Smith traveled to the Waterman Dairy Center to participate in the state Ag Technology and Mechanical Systems CDE. The team had to complete multiple hands on activities such as welding, driving a skid-loader, adjusting planters, surveying land slope, applying fertilizer, and wiring electricity in addition to completing an online test. As a team, they placed sixth out of ten. As individuals, Noah Riley placed fourteenth, Trevor Smith placed nineteenth, David Sheets placed twenty-fifth, and Colton Kraner placed twenty-eighth out of forty participants. Top placed participant for Parkway, Noah Riley, said “it was a good and educational experience.” 

Pictured: (Left to Right) Noah Riley, Trevor Smith, David Sheets, and Nick Riley

Parkway FFA Competes in Urban Soil Judging Competition
By: Mecaylah Hesse
Parkway FFA Reporter
19hessm@parkwayschools.org

Urban and Rural District Soil Judging Competers and Some Qualifiers
By: Mecaylah Hesse
Parkway FFA Reporter
19hessm@parkwayschools.orgg

On September 27, ten Parkway FFA members traveled to McComb, Ohio to compete in both Urban and Rural district soil judging competitions. The Rural team consisted of Leah Harshman, Justan Felver, Alyssa Miller, Jared Anderson, and Ansley Burtch. They placed sixth out of thirty, but unfortunately didn’t qualify for the state competition. The Urban team, however, did qualify for state by placing fourth out of twenty teams. This team included Colton Kraner, Grace Etgen, Brendon Doner, Faith Shellabarger, and Clara Hellwarth. The top four participants from Parkway FFA Urban soil judging team will participate in the state competition on October 13th, 2018. 

Pictured: The top four participants from the Parkway FFA Urban soil judging team. (Left to Right) Faith Shellabarger, Grace Etgen, Brendon Doner, and Colton Kraner.

Mercer County Soil Judging
By: Mecaylah Hesse
Parkway FFA Reporter
19hessm@parkwayschools.org

On September 21, 2018 the Parkway FFA traveled to the Mercer County Soil Judging CDE with 28 participants. This competition, in addition to the previous one at Hardin Northern, would determine which four students from each the Urban and the Rural teams would be selected to continue to the district soil judging competition. Parkway FFA members Jared Anderson, from the Rural soils team, and Faith Shellabarger, from the Urban soils team, both received first place as individuals in their separate categories. 

Shop - n - Dine

Lasagna Dinner & Craft Show - Sunday - November 11th - 11 am - 2 pm
Rockford Community Building - located just off 33 West, Rockford, OHIO
  
Bring your appetite & do some Christmas shopping !!
  
Serving Lasagna, garlic Bread, Green Beans, Salad bar, cookies
  and drinks.
  
Tickets sold at:
  
Henkle Insurance & Rockford Village Hall
  
Adults $8 - Children 10 under - $5
  
~~ carry out available ~~
  
Sponsored by the Rockford Bicentennial Committee

Job Fair Planned in Van Wert
The Van Wert Co. Fair is having a Job Fair in the Junior Fair Building on Friday November 2nd from 10am to 2pm. Admission is free! If you are interested in registering your business contact us at 419-238-9270 or 419-605-5600. 

https://www.facebook.com/events/167943257412011/ 

 
October 26, 2018
 

Mr. E's Driving School Change in Starting Date
Saturday, Oct 27th Class Cancelled - 1st Class is now Monday, Oct 29th
Click Here for driver training details on the Business Directory

Ohio City
Saturday, October 27, 2018, Trick or Treat 5-7 PM; Costume judging follows at fire department on Main Street.

Ohio City Park Board Sponsored Event
There is also a chili soup and peanut butter sandwich supper at the Park Building on SR 118 with a band to follow.
A costume contest with prizes will begin at 10 PM.
 

Willshire
Saturday, October 27, 2018, Trick or Treat 4-6 PM; Costume judging and other events follow in the park at 6:15.
The Parkway Band will perform in the park at 6:15 PM. Snacks provided.

Rockford

Saturday, October 27, 2018, Trick or Treat 5-6:30 PM; Costume judging follows at 7 PM at the fire house on Main Street.
Laura Putman Photography will be at Shanes Park from 4 -5 pm before Trick or Treating taking FREE photos of your children in costume.

The Laurels at Rockford

Saturday, October 27, 2018 from 2:30 to 3:30. Free hot dogs , chips and candy.
They are sponsoring a coloring contest. Public invited.

Mendon

Saturday, October 27, 2018, Trick or Treat 4-6 PM; Costume judging follows at 7 PM at the fire department.
A chili supper with soups, sandwiches, desserts and drinks is planned as well from 4-7PM.

Chatt

Trunk or Treat at Zion Lutheran Church on Sunday October 28th at 5 PM. Costumes welcomed.
Soup and sandwiches served afterwards with a few activities planned by Zion Lutheran and Chatt Methodist Churches.

REMINDER - Senior Night Recognition

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday, October 26, 2018

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Friday, October 26, 2018 for the game against St. Henry.

Ryan and Ashley Clay, Matthew and Amy Jackson, Tiffany Hamilton, Angie Stephenson, Dave and Patty Hipply, Alex and Beverly Rowan, Chad and Lindsay Hamrick, Jason and Sheila Tewksbury, and Jeremy and Seth and Jodi Zimmerman.

Please arrive by 6:00 PM due to Senior Night.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345.  Thank you for your help! 

Lake Area Arts Group to Meet with Artist Twyla Hayes Featured
The Lake Area Arts Group will meet on Monday night, the 12th of November,
at 6 pm at the local library in Celina. Some highlights will include sample of thumb paintings, duo creations, and wood artistry. Twyla Hayes of Rockford will
be the featured artist. This meeting is open to all interested people.

Plan Now to Eat-Out on Friday, November 16, 2018
Annual Chili Supper will be held on Friday, November 16, 2018
from 4:30-7:30pm.
The public is invited to the event at the Rockford Community Bldg., 420 North Holly Lane, Rockford, Ohio 

The menu includes chili, chicken noodle soup, sloppy Joes and creamed
chicken, hot dogs,  chili dogs, applesauce, veggies and desserts

Dine in, Carry out or Drive Thru 
Free will donation will be accepted. 
Raffle Drawing will be held to benefit the Religious Education Program
of St Teresa Parish.

Sponsored by St Teresa Catholic Church 4227 State Route 707, Rockford,
Ohio

 
October 25, 2018
 

Rockford Chamber of Commerce Minutes by Lisa Kuhn

http://www.rockfordalive.com/category/news/minutes/rcoc-minutes/

 
October 23-24, 2018
 

Rockford Lions Planning Fish Fry
Rockford Lions are making final preparations for the 13th Annual Lions Fish Fry at the Rockford Community Building in Shanes Park on Saturday evening, November 3rd, 2018 from 4:30 to 7 pm.  Proceeds from the annual event support the Parkway Schools Eighth Grade Class Trip to Washington D.C. each spring.  Fish Fry Tickets are $7.00 each and are available from members of the current Parkway Eighth Grade Class, or by calling Lion Dennis Hecht at 419-852-9818. 

Rockford Lions Club Hears Council on Aging Director

Monday evening Sept. 24th, Sharon Green, executive director of the Mercer County Council on Aging spoke to the Rockford Lions Club. Green, standing next to Lion President Darrell Sheppard, outlined the changing public perception of the Council on Aging as she described the four areas of service available to Mercer County residents age 60 and up. Chore Services, Homemaker services, Transportation Services, and Outreach Services are facilitated by trained and vetted staff members. For more information, contact The Mercer County Council on Aging, 217 Riley Street in Celina. 419-586-1644 www.mccoa.net

Rockford Lions are also preparing for two new events in 2019; a Quarter Auction on Saturday, March 30th to be held at the Rockford Community Building and sponsorship of the 25th Annual Rockford Car Show and Cruise-In on Friday, June 14th on West Market Street in Rockford. 

Proceeds from Rockford Lions Club projects like the annual Fish Fry fund scholarships & help fulfill local community needs & requests.    The next meeting of the Rockford Lions Club will be Monday, November 12th at 6:30 p.m. at the Rockford Carry Out, 156 S. Main Street.

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

Parkway Local Board of Education Special Meeting 

The Parkway Local Schools Board of Education will hold a special meeting on Thursday, October 25, 2018 at 8:00 p.m. in the community room.   The purpose of the meeting will be the Five Year Forecast presentation.

THE ROCKFORD BELLE -- OPRY SHOW
SATURDAY – NOVEMBER 3, 2018
135 MARKET ST ~~ ROCKFORD, OH

Jerry Bolenbaugh along with special guests invite you to a Rockford Opry Show featuring Classic Country, Bluegrass, Rock n Roll, Gospel, and some comedy!! 
Doors open at 6 pm with show beginning at 7 pm.

Cost at the door is $7.00.  18 and under are free.  There will be a 50/50 drawing.

Guests include:  

* Dondie Macklin – Lima, OH * Michelle Limbert from Lima

* Collie Lambert and Steve Scott – from Oakwood

* Joe Killion from Defiance   * Dan Cole – Reading, MI

*  Mike Kaufman – Defiance * Ken & Rhonda Foltz – Bryant, IN

There is a lot of music experience in all the guests.  All are very talented. 

Mercer County Angel Tree Program Preparing for Christmas
Although Christmas may still be a few months off, preparations for the Mercer County Angel Tree Program are already in full swing.

Angel Tree was established in 2005 to bring together the efforts of the many local agencies, organizations, churches and businesses who were trying to provide gifts for local families. Today, this heart-warming, inspiring event provides Christmas joy to children all across the county and stands as a testament to power of partnership and collaboration in our region.

Last year, the Angel Tree program provided over 2500 gifts to area children. To meet that level of need, the program relies on local organizations and people to assist in several ways: purchasing gifts, volunteering, or making cash donations.

Purchasing gifts: A group can take a number of Angel Tree tags and display them on a tree to allow group members, staff, or customers the opportunity to personally donate gifts, which the group collects for the program. To request tags, contact Betty Leininger at 419-586-1352.

Volunteering: Several hundred volunteers are needed to set up on December 6, and to help with “shopping” and wrapping on December 7. To volunteer or for more information, contact Diane Martens at 419-586-3645.

Donating: Monetary gifts help to provide gift boxes for children 13-15 years old, to purchase gifts for children 0-12 years old, and to offer extra items for the families. If you would like to make a donation, you can mail it or bring it to Our Home at 117 West Fayette St. in Celina. (Make checks payable to Our Home.)

Angel Tree would not be possible without the generosity and support received from the Mercer County community and the hard work and dedication of the Mercer County Angel Tree committee members. This year’s committee includes Joan Carr, Diane Martens, Janice Klenke, Denise Pogue, Shawn Thieman, Edna Backs, Tammy Kramer, Jody Kramer, Karla Kessler, Sylvia Hux, Anne Ly, and Michelle Van Arsdel.

If you have any questions the Angel Tree program, please feel free to contact Our Home at 419-586-4663.

 
October 19-22, 2018
 

Ohio City
Saturday, October 27, 2018, Trick or Treat 5-7 PM; Costume judging follows at fire department on Main Street.

Willshire
Saturday, October 27, 2018, Trick or Treat 4-6 PM; Costume judging and other events follow in the park at 6:15.

Rockford

Saturday, October 27, 2018, Trick or Treat 5-6:30 PM; Costume judging follows at 7 PM at the fire house on Main Street.
Laura Putman Photography will be at Shanes Park from 4 -5 pm before Trick or Treating taking FREE photos of your children in costume.

Mendon

Saturday, October 27, 2018, Trick or Treat 4-6 PM; Costume judging follows at 7 PM at the fire department.
A chili supper with soups, sandwiches, desserts and drinks is planned as well from 4-7PM.

Parkway Middle School Conferences

Parkway Middle School will be holding parent-teacher conferences on November 1st, November 15th, and November 19th. Conference times for all evenings will be from 4:30-8:00 p.m. Conference scheduling forms have already been sent home with all students.  You may pick up extra forms in the Middle School office.

As a reminder to parents and students, due to conferences and Thanksgiving break, there is NO SCHOOL on November 21 through November 26.  School will resume on Tuesday, November 27, 2018.

Traffic Update for First Phase of Van Wert Health Construction Project

Van Wert, OH – Van Wert Health is asking all patients and visitors to carefully watch signage while on the main campus of Van Wert Health in order to navigate safety around the construction zones.  The campus is now marked with red arrows to route patients directly to the main entrance of the Emergency Room.  Additional blue arrows, which are painted on the pavement and on signage around the campus, are being used to direct outpatients, visitors, and vendors to an alternate parking lot during the first phase of construction for the Van Wert Health Surgery and Inpatient Expansion Project. 

The expansion project includes a new two-story, 84,000 square-foot facility which will help further address the health care needs of residents and visitors in our area. 

Laurels of Shane Hill Welcomes New Administrator

Sierra Saylor recently joined the Laurels of Shane Hill team as their administrator.  Originally from St. Marys, OH, she graduated from The Ohio State University in 2010 with a Bachelor’s degree in Speech and Hearing Science. In 2015, she received her Master’s degree from Utica College in Healthcare Administration. Sierra is also CEAL certified and a Certified Dementia Practitioner. She and her husband live in Willshire with their two dogs. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family.

Rockford United Methodist Church Plans Another Year of Kids Club and Meals

The members of Rockford United Methodist Church are planning another fun year of Kids Club and Meals afterwards at their location on 110 South Franklin St. in Rockford, OH 45882

(419) 363-3230

Kids Club starts September 5th and will run every Wednesday after school from 3:30 to 5 PM. The service is free but sign-up is necessary. Get your forms at the church or Parkway Elementary School office. Intended for ages K-5th, children are transported from Parkway School to R.U.M.C.  where snacks, playing games, making crafts, and learning a Bible lesson makes for a fun after school program.  

A free community meal follows with Bible Study through December. Everyone is invited!

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

War Trophies at the Museum exhibit, this coming Sunday.

OUR OLD BOOK CASE

 By  Joyce L. Alig, President, Mercer County Historical Society, Inc.

 
Photo caption:  War Trophies on exhibit at Mercer County Historical Museum, Sunday October 28

The above photograph features the World War II era P-38 pistol, a German World War I era Iron Cross, a German World War II Era Fallschirmjager (parachutist) badge and a Gulf War Iraqi shoulder board, which are a part of the exhibit at the Mercer County Historical Museum, Sunday afternoon, October 28.

Those of you who remember your German language, you are aware that the German words are often a combination of individual words put together, to create a meaning of the related words.  However, my German language skills are “nicht sehr gut,”  meaning my skills are not so good.  I may have erred in my translation of the word “Fallschirmjager,”

Brian Williamson of the Museum of the Soldier translated this word to mean, “a parachutist.”  That does make sense.  First, the word, “Schirm,” means a shelter, like an umbrella.  The German word for umbrella is “Regenschirm.”  The word for rain is “Regen.” Therefore, to be protected from the rain by an umbrella, the word is “Regenschirm.”  The work “Jager” would mean a hunter.  Therefore, a “schirmjager,” might mean to protect someone from the hunter.  And to complete the process, the word “Fall,” may mean to fall.  Thus, Fall + Schirm + Jager = A parachute is something used to protect a falling person from the hunter, or the enemy hunter.

Perhaps, I should expect that High School German Students may be laughing at my translation . . . or I wonder how many schools still teach the German language.  My grandson told me that he had to take Chinese for a foreign language because his school neither had German Teachers nor Latin Teachers.   I wondered how many Mercer County students would have a need to speak Chinese.   Do your grandchildren study the Chinese language?  How many Mercer Countians speak the Chinese language?

I just hope that it does not take a World War to see our Military bringing home war trophies from China.  That is a terrible thought to have.  I do not want war with any country.  Prevention of war is high on anyone’s list.  Defense of our National freedom, when all negotiations fail, is an alternative that I would see for War to happen.   We have seen too many wars in our lifetime.  I respect our Military personnel, and I want them to be protected from any enemy.  The German word for foe or enemy is “fiend.”  We could use a Fiendschirm. . . a hundred percent protection for each and every Member of our Military personnel from any enemy.

As President of the Mercer County Historical Society, I receive letters of requests for historical research.  Often, requests are for family research about their Mercer County, Ohio relatives who served in the Military.  A recent letter requests information about James McClurg, a Civil War Veteran.  He has quite a story to tell, but information is difficult to find.  I will have this letter of request on exhibit for you to read, at the Sunday, October 28 Military Exhibit by the Museum of the Soldier.  The Museum of the Soldier’s Directors always seek information about the Military person related to the exhibits at the Museum of the Soldier.  Their quest is what makes their Museum of the Soldier so outstanding.

Visit the Mercer County Historical Museum, Sunday, afternoon, October 28, 1:00 – 4:00, and meet Brian Williamson and Jim Waechter, and see their exhibit they brought from the Museum of the Soldier to the Mercer County Historical Museum, for you to enjoy.   Guten Tag, or Good Day.

[Mercer County Historical Society President Joyce Alig, may be contacted at 3054 Burk-St. Henry Road, Saint Henry, OH 45883,  or histalig@bright.net or 419-678-2614.

OUR OLD BOOK CASE
By  Joyce L. Alig, President, Mercer County Historical Society, Inc.

Photo caption:  Civil War Veteran Israel Cook’s January 3, 1864 Discharge Paper, was what he brought home to Celina, Ohio, after his service in Company F, 4th Regiment, of Ohio Cavalry Volunteers.  Cook was enrolled on the 11th day of September 1861. 

“What they brought home; War Trophies of the returning GI,” is the theme of the 18th Annual Military and Antique Gun Exhibit by the Museum of the Soldier, held at the Mercer County Historical Museum, 130 East Market, Celina, on Sunday, October 28, 2018, 1:00 – 4:00.  Brian Williamson and Jim Waechter, from the Museum of the Soldier in Portland, Indiana will be bringing Military Exhibits from that Museum.

May I ask the American Legion Members and the Veterans of Foreign Wars what they brought home with them, from their time in the Service of our Country?  Our United States Military Veterans are invited to bring their own collections “which they brought home with them,” to show the public on this same Sunday afternoon.  You are more than welcome to share your collections and talk with each other as well as the Guests of the Mercer County Historical Museum.

When you visit this Military Exhibit Sunday afternoon, October 28, you are also welcome to walk through the exhibits of the Mercer County Historical Museum.  The County Museum’s historic Military Exhibit includes collections from the Revolutionary War through our Country’s Military History today.  The Mission of the Mercer County Historical Society is To Preserve Mercer County’s History and To Educate the Public about that History.   Our Military History is an important facet of our Mercer County Heritage.  You are most welcome to become a Member of the Mercer County Historical Society and help preserve our County’s heritage.   I ask you, if you are proud of your Mercer County Heritage, will you be so thoughtful as to help preserve the Mercer County Historical Museum through this Century?

For those of you who want to visit the Museum of the Soldier, it is located at 510 East Arch Street, Portland, Indiana, and is open on Saturday and Sunday, 12:00 – 5:00 in November, and by appointment  Their email address is museum@bright.net   Jim Waechter’s cell phone number is 260-729-7017.

Visit the Mercer County Historical Museum, Sunday, afternoon, October 28, and meet Brian Williamson and Jim Waechter, and see their exhibit they brought from the Museum of the Soldier to the Mercer County Historical Museum, for you to enjoy.   

[Mercer County Historical Society President Joyce Alig, may be contacted at 3054 Burk-St. Henry Road, Saint Henry, OH 45883,  or histalig@bright.net or 419-678-2614.

 
October 15-18, 2018
 

Lost Dog Sought - Reward
Molly went missing on Saturday 10/6 in the vicinity of Oregon & Erastus-Durbin Roads.  She busted off her lead in the dark - found no sign of collar or cable so she may be dragging it.  Apprehensive of people, may respond to whistle.   There have been a couple sightings of a dog matching this description around Chatt, and also Frahm Pike/Township Line Road area.   If seen, please contact 419-305-1805.  Reward.  Thank you

Sheriff’s Department Receives Grant

Celina, OH - Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today his office has received word from the Ohio Department of Public Safety that his office has once again received a grant to aide our deputies in reducing traffic related fatalities and serious injury accidents in Mercer County.

The grant allows deputies to spend more time targeting problem areas while on patrol.  The grant is broken down into two focus areas. The first for $19,616.63, titled Repeat Offenders for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), will focus on looking for subjects driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol within our county. The second part of the grant, valued at $14,577.75, is State and Community Highway Safety. This part of the grant allows us to have our deputies focus on driving laws and ensure all motorists are safe while on the roads of Mercer County.  

Sheriff Grey stated, “As we enter this fall we would remind drivers that farm equipment is out at times late at night, so please use extra caution and don’t drink and drive, the risk you take is not worth the results.” 

Further inquiries can be directed to Chief Deputy Gery Thobe at 419-586-7724.

 
October 12-14, 2018
 

High Speed Chase of Driver in Stolen Vehicle Ends in Crash
Rockford Police Chief Paul May in Pursuit
by Sheriff Jeff Grey
Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports his office has in custody a 37-year-old Lucas J. Jackson from 4470 290th Street Toledo, Ohio.

At 10:05 AM Central dispatch received multiple 9-1-1 calls of an injury crash on Hoenie Road, south of Fast Road involving two vehicles.  Jackson was involved in the initial crash on Hoenie Road.  Jackson was reported to be traveling at a high rate of speed when he struck the rear of a 2001 Honda driven by a male subject from Celina, Ohio (Name withheld pending further investigation).  Jackson then threatened the driver of a 2003 Pontiac Grand Am, who stopped to help crash victims, with a screw driver.  Jackson stole the Grand Am and fled the scene (owner of the Grand Am, and driver of Grand Am being withheld pending further investigation).

Rockford Police Chief May who was coming to assist deputies passed Jackson in the stolen Pontiac west bound on State Route 707.  Chief May turned and pursued Jackson.  Pursuit speeds reached 70 mph, Jackson then lost control of the vehicle east of Erastus Durbin Road and rolled into a field where he was trapped inside.

Jackson was  extricated from the vehicle and transported by Rockford Squad to Mercer Health.  Jackson is currently being treated at Mercer Health under guard of deputies from the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office.  The Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the hospital by Coldwater PD.   The driver of the Honda was transported to an area hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Deputies were assisted at the scenes by Rockford Police Department, Celina Police Department, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, MCERV, and Mercer County EMS, Celina and Rockford Fire Departments.

No other information is being released as prosecutors will be reviewing the case for the appropriate charges to be filed. These incidents remain under investigation.

Click on smaller thumbnails to enlarge them.

THE ROCKFORD CARNEGIE LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES WILL HAVE A SPECIAL MEETING ON MONDAY. OCTOBER 15, AT 7 PM IN THE LIBRARY MEETING ROOM TO DISCUSS THE EMPLOYMENT AND COMPENSATION OF PERSONNEL.

Rockford Club Begins New Year

The Twenty-First Century Club members met for their first dinner meeting of the year on September 24, 2018 at Rockford United Methodist Church Social Room with Karla Butler, president and Toni Fisher vice-president presiding and serving a delicious meal of baked chicken, potatoes and green beans, and salad, with fresh fruit and homemade cookies for dessert. The Club theme for the year is Remarkable Women, and will involve a learning experience on the history of feisty and sometimes difficult women who achieved greatness.

A short meeting was completed with the reading of the minutes from May by secretary Kim Carr and the treasurer’s report. Role call was mentioning something we have recently learned and the responses were very interesting. Members decided to continue to bring items for the food pantry as well as plastic bottle caps and Walmart bags for the back pack program. Three new members were inducted into the club: Kara Ransbottom and Karen Nuttle introduced by sponsor Karla Butler; and Katherine Beckett introduced by sponsor Sheila Baltzell-Linn. The late Rachel Webb was along-time  member and memories of her were shared. Members also briefly discussed the upcoming Rockford Bi-Centennial, and possible ways for the club to participate.

President Karla Butler handed out the programs and discussed the theme of Remarkable Women, mentioning one she learned about while on a mission trip to Henderson Settlement in Belle County, Kentucky this summer. Her name is Uhla Hall – and she founded Mud Creek Medicine – the fight for the ignored and poor peoples of Appalachia and their plight. Uhla was born in a “holler” and at the age of 5 took food to a family near her home needing help. At the age of 14, she went to New Your to work in a cannery and wound up organizing the workers for better conditions. She would up arrested, and they found she had lied about her age (18).

In the 1950’s she organized knitting and pie baking groups to get people to socialize. In 1962 she stole her husband’s truck and took a woman (with complications) to the hospital to deliver her baby. She had to threaten them to accept the woman as a patient. In 1960’s, the Kennedys learned of the situation and lended their support.The CAC was formed and clean drinking water and real roads became the focus of Uhla.

Uhla went to Georgia and trained the Volunteers & Service to America workers on how to talk to the people. She was paid as a professional activist.  She did a survey and learned that men and women’s health care, domestic violence, contaminated creek water and power and corruption in the coal mining industry were the most important problems to the Appalachian folk. So she started a clinic herself in a trailer, got doctors to volunteer and in the first week they saw 481 people who had never seen a doctor in their life. Because of Black lung from the coal mines and her fight for better conditions, for the workers, she became a target and her clinic was burned. Uhla got right back up and with insurance money from the loss, she applied for a grant needing matching funds. She raised even more money to rebuild a 400K facility with equipment.

The next meeting will be held on October  23, 2018, 7 PM, at the Rockford Methodist Church Café. Ann Gage, with Cindy Canary assisting, will handle refreshments. Members Twyla Hays and Louisa will be providing the program on
Ann Landers and Ella Fitzgerald.  Contact Sheila Baltzell at 419-733-3326 if you’d like to learn more about this club.

Plan now to attend the Otterbein SeniorLife St. Marys Community for their Fall Fest on Saturday, October 13 from 11 AM to 2 PM. Music by the Muleskinner Band
Face Painting & Caricature Drawings; Apple Press Demonstrations; Horse Drawn Carriage Rides; Kettle Corn, Caramel Apples, Cotton Candy, Funnel Cakes; Door Prizes

Plan now to attend the Physical Therapy Fair at Otterbein SeniorLife St. Marys Community on Tuesday, October 23, 2018 from 3-5 PM in the Meyer Community Room.

Neck and Shoulder massages; Therapist Relay Races; Exercise demonstrations; Dessert Bar; tour of therapy gyms and rehab suites;
screenings fpr balance, pain, mobility, vestibular and neurological disorders and much more!

Ohio City
Saturday, October 27, 2018, Trick or Treat 5-7 PM; Costume judging follows at fire department on Main Street.

Willshire
Saturday, October 27, 2018, Trick or Treat 4-6 PM; Costume judging and other events follow in the park at 6:15.

Rockford
Details coming

Mendon

Details coming

 
October 9 -11, 2018
 

REMINDER

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday, October 12, 2018

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Friday, October 12, 2018 for the game against Delphos St. Johns

Michael and Katie Huffman, Les and Cheryl Nichols, Christina Sutter, Michael and Melissa Burtch, Zach and Abbey Neuenschwander, Brendan and Marci Bates, and Jeremy and Lisa Aller.

Please arrive by 6:00 PM.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345.  Thank you for your help! 

Two Panther Revues by Parkway Choirs Coming to the Auditorium

Twyla Hayes, Chamber Emcee, took the podium, welcoming guests and introducing all speakers.  She mentioned the Rockford Bicentennial Plans  are coming along great with a mural soon to be painted on the wall of the Fire Department. The 200th Birthday Celebration of Rockford coming in 2020 is keeping organizers busy.  She also named many businesses with expansions and improvements to their buildings and decor creating a more beautiful village.

Stacy Beougher, current Celina/Mercer Chamber of Commerce Director, speaker for the evening, told of her start at the former Celina Racquet Club in Celina at age 15 when she got her first job in Customer Service. She loved it and has served her many years in that capacity. She believes service training and fundamentals of leadership are important in service industries, and the time taken in training employees is critical. At the Celina/Mercer Chamber, she sees her job as promoting all businesses and their events.

Chamber President Mary Beougher then came forward to mention that the last welcome sign on the north edge of Rockford is completed. Following her were Nancy Leighner and Rachel Hayes, two from Rockford who recently completed the 2018 Leadership in Action Program through the Celina/Mercer Chamber.

They both agreed that it was more than worthwhile as they engaged in many activities and had wonderful opportunities to see county businesses and government at work. “The experiences energized me”, said Rachel.

Mary Beougher then continued by presenting awards to new businesses: Rock Solid Performance (Andrew Peel); The Fix Functional Massage Therapy (Luke Stephenson); Homes at Ohio’s Edge Realty (Tammy Cheek); Duncan Oil and Rockford Shopperstop.

Business Anniversaries included: Gourmet Gifts by Kristi (20 years), Miss Mamy’s Playground (20 years) and First Financial Bank (155 years).

Then Tom Burtch took the podium and presented the Business of the Year Award to Brand It Marketing Communications, in business since 2004 and owned by Twyla and Pete Hayes. Combining their talents in graphic designing and agri-business, they created a niche in the growing world of marketing. Tom read a long list of accomplishments by the duo including growing from a 2 employee company to an 8 employee operation. Twyla and Pete are always involved in community projects, including the 2020 Bicentennial coming up, and are always willing to give of their time.

Then the time came to name the winner of the Citizen of the Year for 2018, which went to Steven McBride Thompson, presented by Barbara Pedroza, last year’s winner.

The video, carefully prepared by Stacie Ford, was played and everyone stood to applaud and congratulate Steve following an endearing look at his life.

Rockford Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year 2018 Named
Steven McBride Thompson Celebrated on Monday, October 8, 2018
Researched and Written by Stacie Ford

Born February 17, 1948 in Van Wert, Ohio to parents, Ernest and Gertrude, Steve was raised in Rockford and lived there most of his life with the exception of a year on a Navajo Mission in New Mexico.  He was the second of five children- with siblings the late Robert, Paul, Ann and Phil. His parents were teachers, and as a child, he learned to play music by ear. He also enjoyed building things like radios.

He graduated from Parkway High School The Class of 1966 and went on to attend Huntington College for three years while majoring in Education.  There was one notable person who made a lasting impression on him during high school - industrial arts teacher, Ted Hakes. This influence was the vehicle directing his career choice to become a self-employed construction contractor during his entire working career. Many buildings in Rockford have been remodeled by him.

He married the love of his life, Marcia, on September 7, 1974 at the Continental United Methodist Church. Two years later, the couple was baptized  in Dan Henkle’s pond and then became members of the Rockford United Methodist Church. This is the same church where he has served as Trustee and Maintenance worker for several years; Parishioners can witness him making a joyful noise by playing instruments such as the guitar, trumpet, fiddle, banjo, and harmonica in the band on Sunday Mornings. Over the years, several updates and new installations have been made at the Rockford United Methodist Church; one item, the beautiful  7 foot cross, created by Steve, graces the sanctuary.

Together, the couple have raised two children, Julie and Curtis - their pride and joy! The engaging father and grandfather enjoys attending music recitals and sporting events, and dotes on his beloved family by building them special handcrafted gifts made of wood. Grandchildren Alaina, Sloane, Madison, Paxton and Grayden are the proud beneficiaries of projects such as doll cradles, rocking chairs, a tool bench and a special handmade kite. Being a teacher at heart, our recipient involves family members in the making of such items.

His parents, aunts and uncles were important in his life, especially Uncle Nelson who ran the Navajo Mission in New Mexico. While there doing maintenance work, he lived with his brother Paul and learned many things about God, faith, and serving others. Many people who know him, know of his strong convictions and belief in the Bible, and his unwavering ability to speak out as a Christian believer.

Steve has many hobbies including repairing vintage radios and TVs, playing music, collecting license plates, bicycle riding and visiting friends, and fixing things around town. One of the oldest homes in Rockford is owned and remodeled by this truly gifted jack-of-all tradesman!

His active memberships include Shanes Crossing Historical Society, Rockford Lions Club, Parkway Booster Club, and The American Legion Post #508- where the stars and stripes hold a special place in his heart. He shows allegiance to his country and honors those that have fallen by marching in Memorial Day parades. The patriot flies a flag at his home and shows family support through the purchase of veteran bricks at Shanes Park. Steve recently installed a solar light on the flag pole there.

“I’m just doing what I love to do,” said Steve, of his countless hours of service, maintenance tasks and projects which have been donated to our community.  Steve has built benches at Shanes Park; repaired and painted the Log House in the park; donated and installed a stained glass window and chandeliers from the former Grace EUB Church in town hall; performed maintenance repairs at the American Legion; and, methodically painted the state-owned metal Rockford signs as you enter the corporation limits.  Oftentimes, a friend or two can be seen working together on such projects with him, including Reed Shaffer, Lowell Beougher and Mike Schumm.

It has been a blessing for Steve to live in the small village of Rockford, and he shows his devotion by donating many items from Rockford’s past to the museum. Rockford history aficionados can enjoy books, news articles, pictures, postcards and the replica model of the Rockford railroad station.

Rockford, Ohio is a better place to live due to Steve’s exceptional attention to detail, genuine caring touch and ambitious drive to get things accomplished. God, family and service are the predominant factors in this man’s life. Community members can take a lesson from his quiet, humble demeanor, whose lifelong contributions echo immeasurable lasting rewards to the senses at every turn throughout the village at Rockford!

Congratulations Steven McBride Thompson on becoming 2018 Citizen of the Year.   

 
October 6-8, 2018
 

Parkway Sub Sales Fundraiser Underway
See advertisement above.
The Parkway Music Booster’s annual sub sandwich sale is currently underway.  The subs have been sold for many years and continue to be a favorite of many.    This year three different subs will be made: “The Original” (bologna, pork loaf, beef stick, American and Swiss cheeses), ham (ham, American and Swiss cheeses), and turkey breast (turkey, American and Swiss cheeses).  Prices are as follows: 1 for $4, 3 for $10, 6 for $18, and 12 for $32. 

Students in grades 6-12 who are involved with the band or choir programs at Parkway will be selling the subs.  Selling dates are now through Oct. 12th   The subs will be made at the school on Saturday, Nov. 10th and will be ready for the students to deliver at that time. 

All profits from the sub sales will go directly to the Parkway Music Boosters and will be used to support the bands and choirs.  The sales are a great way to get a delicious sandwich while providing support to our students. 

 
If you would like to purchase subs or have further questions, please call Kendra Miller at 419.495.2655.

Dancing with the Big Stars 2018

Dancing with the Big Stars 2018 will be held on Saturday, November 17th at the Overdrive in Celina.  Matinee tickets are still available and can be purchased by calling 419-584-2447. Doors will open at 1:00 pm and the show will begin at 1:30.

Stateline Writers Club to Meet
The Stateline Writers Club is scheduled to meet at 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 20, at the Celina public library.  The suggested writing topic is "something scary."   The public is welcome.

 
October 4-5, 2018
 

Parkway Schools Calendar of Events by Makayla McAvoy
for October 2018 - Click here for a printable version

Free Movie Night at Rockford United Methodist Church

Rockford United Methodist Church will be holding a FREE MOVIE NIGHT on Saturday, October 6 at 7:00 p.m. in the

church's Social Room located at 202 South Franklin Street in Rockford, Ohio.  For more information, please call the church

office at 419-363-3230

The FREE MOVIE being shown is "Paul-Apostle of Christ."  A free-will donation will be accepted. 

Any profits will go toward sending Bibles to persecuted believers.  All is welcome to come and enjoy some fellowship.

Jim Bowsher of Wapakoneta Coming to Rockford
The next meeting of the Shanes Crossing Historical Society will be held on 
October 15th at 7 pm in the museum located on East Columbia Street in Rockford.
Our guest speaker will be Jim Bowsher of Wapakoneta.  Jim has spoken at many
of our meetings.  The audience enjoys hearing him tell stories as he shows
many different historical items he has collected over the years.  
The public is invited to attend.  

Parkway FFA Chapter’s Senior Class Teaches Delicious Lesson on Soil Layers

By: Mecaylah Hesse
Parkway FFA Reporter
19hessm@parkwayschools.org

On September 13th and 19th, the Parkway FFA Chapter’s senior class went down to spend an hour with the Parkway second-grade class. During this hour, members taught the children about the different layers of soil and their purposes. After sitting patiently during the lesson, the second-grade students were rewarded with dirt pudding. Each member gave the children a different item for the pudding to represent the different layers of soil. On the bottom, a solid Oreo cookie to represent bed rock. Above the cookie was a layer of crumbled Oreos to represent parent material. Then vanilla pudding to represent sub-soil, chocolate pudding to represent top soil, and sprinkles to represent organic materials such as grass. To top off the dirt pudding the young students also got gummy worms. Members would like to thank Parkway’s second grade teachers for allowing the FFA to spend an hour with their students for the education of Agriculture. 

Image 1 (Jack)- FFA Member Jack Wehe helping the students with their sprinkles.

Image 2 (Preston)- FFA Member Preston Stober helping the students with their pudding.

Image 3 (President Maddy Teaching)- FFA President Madison Kroeger quizzing the children at the end of their lesson.

Image 4 (Students Enjoying Their Dirt Pudding)- A small group of students from Mrs. Kirby's class enjoying their dirt pudding.

Click on smaller thumbnail pictures below to enlarge.

A CELEBRATION OF GOD'S GIFTS 

ROCKFORD UNITED METHODIST CHURCH - HARVEST JUBILEE
202 S. Franklin St, Rockford

Celebrating a Bountiful Harvest by Sharing God's Talents and Gifts

Sunday - October 14, 2018 

Supper served at 5:30 pm - Presentation of Gifts at 6:30 pm

We invite you to share in a FREE appreciation dinner followed by
an evening that will showcase God's talents and gifts at work
in our community.

We ask you to please come and share in the Spirit led evening of praise !

Parkway Sub Sales Fundraiser Underway
The Parkway Music Booster’s annual sub sandwich sale is currently underway.  The subs have been sold for many years and continue to be a favorite of many.    This year three different subs will be made: “The Original” (bologna, pork loaf, beef stick, American and Swiss cheeses), ham (ham, American and Swiss cheeses), and turkey breast (turkey, American and Swiss cheeses).  Prices are as follows: 1 for $4, 3 for $10, 6 for $18, and 12 for $32. 

Students in grades 6-12 who are involved with the band or choir programs at Parkway will be selling the subs.  Selling dates are now through Oct. 12th   The subs will be made at the school on Saturday, Nov. 10th and will be ready for the students to deliver at that time. 

All profits from the sub sales will go directly to the Parkway Music Boosters and will be used to support the bands and choirs.  The sales are a great way to get a delicious sandwich while providing support to our students. 

 
If you would like to purchase subs or have further questions, please call Kendra Miller at 419.495.2655.

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

Mums for Sale by Parkway FFA
The Parkway FFA Chapter Mum sale is every fall, but who grows and cares for the mums changes from year to year. This year, Parkway junior Leah Harshman volunteered to grow the mums. Leah started her journey in the beginning of June, starting with 250 plants varying in colors of red, purple, yellow, orange, and white. When asked how the process has been, Leah replied, “It is not too hard, but I have enjoyed raising the mums.” The money Leah earns from selling these mums will be going toward getting her State FFA Degree, as a certain profit made is a requirement to earn the State FFA Degree. The pot sizes and prices are: 8” pot for $5, 10” for 2 colors (in the same pot) for $10, $12 for 3 colors in a 10” pot, or a large Terracotta pot with double colors for $12. If you are interested in supporting Leah and the Parkway FFA Chapter, stop by the Rockford Carryout on October the 6th and 7th to purchase your mums from Leah! If you can’t make it to the Carryout, you may contact Leah at 419-605-8099 to buy mums. 

By: Kiersten Roehm (Parkway FFA Historian)

Click on smaller thumbnails to enlarge

50’s Dance Planned in Rockford to support Rockford’s Bicentennial
Rock with the 50's - Dig out your poodle skirt & dance the night away for
Rockford's Bicentennial.

Live music by The Bulldogs - Saturday - October 20th at the 
Rockford Community Building.  Doors open at 6 pm - starts at 7 pm
$10 per person at the door

Giveaways - Concessions available -

Thank you to our Farming Community for Supporting this event !

 
October 1 - 3, 2018
 

2018 Parkway Football Homecoming Court - Queen Kara Heck

Photos by James Leighner - thanks for sharing!

Freshman Danielle Huff, Junior Ashlyn White, Senior Lauren Henderson, 2017 Queen Bailey Bates, 2018 Queen Kara Heck, Senior Molly Baltzell and Sophomore Kayla Kuhn

Friday, September 38, 2018 Parkway versus Ft. Recovery

Click on smaller thumbnails to enlarge them!

Parkway October 2018 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

 
September 29-30, 2018
 

Local Young Fire-fighters Honor 9-11 With 120 Stair Climb
Two members of the Willshire Fire Department participated in the Columbus 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb on Sunday September 9, 2018. Brandon Joseph and Preston Browning climbed 120 flights of stairs in full fire gear to honor those lives lost in the World Trade Center collapse of 9-11-01. The two men were given a name badge of a fallen firefighter or EMT and asked to dedicate their climb to the memory of that individual. At the end of the climb the participants read the name of the fallen and rang the fire bell in honor. The event took place at the Chase Building in Downtown Columbus and the money raised benefits the FDNY CSU and the programs provided by the NFFF to support the families of our nation’s fallen firefighters. More information, and information for the 2019 stair climb can be found at http://events.firehero.org/site/TR?fr_id=2010&pg=entry.

From left to right: Brandon Joseph and Preston Browning

Thank you for sharing this article and photo, Kevin A. Browning!

The next Bicentennial Committee meeting will be held at the Village Hall and Museum
on Monday - October 1st at 7 pm.    All are welcome !

Colleen (Wood ) O’Steen, Parkway High School Graduate Publishes Christian Book, Holds Book-Signing in Alabama and Will Present her Journey at Atlanta Women’s Weekend in October 2018

From Will to Power: Seven Days to Spiritual Self-Discipline - Amazon Details

Published by Colleen O'Steen in 2016, her book on becoming a disciplined Spiritual Christian, is gaining recognition in the Christian World. She was recently invited to a book signing in her home state of Alabama. Photos and and interview are available here:

https://www.facebook.com/CEIBookstore/ - Click Here

Atlanta Women’s Weekend Features Author Colleen Wood O’Steen

REFLECTION FRIDAY & SATURDAY                                            OCTOBER 12-13, 2018

The Atlanta Women’s Weekend, Located In Alpharetta, GA, is an annual eveant dedicated to bringing Christian Women together to Praise God and Study the Bible. The goal is to encourage wome to grow in God’s word.

The Atlanta Women’s Weekend is not supported by, organized by, run by, or directed by any particular church. They are individual Christian women helping other women grow in the Lord our God. See their information: Facebook.

The theme for 2018 is "Reflection," from James 1:23-24, “For if anyone is a hearer of the Word and not a doer, he is like a  man who looks at his natural face in the mirror; For once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was.”

Colleen is one of the 2018 Workshop Leaders

Colleen O'Steen

Colleen O’Steen is an Ohio native and has lived in the Huntsville, Alabama area since 1987. She is a professional writer having worked in game, animated film, and virtual reality development in the defense industry, in promotion and marketing in the software industry, as a narrator, and as a television news anchor and reporter.

Colleen recently published From Will to Power, a book on spiritual self-discipline, and also performed the audiobook version. She is a Bible class teacher/coordinator and has designed teaching materials, including the board game, Apostles in Action, and multimedia presentations for the classroom covering the New Testament. Her current project is a book on rearing children with spiritual grit, written with her three grown daughters, Haley, Rosalind, and Claire.

Colleen received a graduate certificate in instructional design from George Washington University, a Master’s degree in English from the University of Alabama in Huntsville, and a Bachelor’s degree in Communication/Broadcast News from the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. She and her husband, Wally, have been married since 1987.

Colleen grew up near Rockford, OH on a farm. Her parents are the late Duane and Virginia (Meyer) Wood. Her sisters are Sheila Wood Baltzell-Linn, Celina and

Holly Patrice Wood of Providence RI.

2018 Mercer County Fair- Parkway FFA

By: Mecaylah Hesse
Parkway FFA Reporter
19hessm@parkwayschools.org

Parkway FFA had a successful week at the 2018 Mercer County Fair. The first day of fair, August 10, multiple Parkway FFA members received awards for their projects. Sidney Doner was awarded best Alfalfa Hay, Lance Weirrick received best tractor restoration, Trevor Smith was awarded for the best bench and sign, Bryce Mihm received best horse-shoe star, and Jared Anderson won best-in-class for his night stand. The rest of the week consisted of maintaining the food stand which was a very successful fundraiser. The Parkway and Ft. Recovery FFA chapters worked together to provide food and drinks for the fair-goersto raise money for the chapters’ upcoming events that would take place throughout the school year. The Parkway FFA would like to thank the following sponsors for their generous donations to the food stand: 

Mercer Landmark Inc. 

First Bank 

The Fremont Company 

Pictured Above: Food stand 1- Rachel Barrett (Left) and Grace Etgen (Right)

Left to right below - Click on smaller thumbnails to enlarge.

Food stand 2- Ft. Recovery members and Mr. Alan Post

Food stand 3- The Parkway and Ft. Recovery FFA food stand at the Mercer County Fair

Fair 1- (Left to Right) Lance Weirrick, Bryce Mihm, Jared Anderson, and Trevor Smith

Fair 2- Corey Walls 

 
September 28, 2018
 

Parkway Homecoming Court for 2018
Left ot Right: Freshman Dani Huff; Junior Ashlyn White; Senior Kara Heck; Senior Lauren Henderson;
Senior Molly Baltzell; Sophomore Kayla Kuhn.
The Panthers take on Ft. Recovery on Friday, September 28, 2018.
The queen will be crowned at the game.

 

Parkway Plans 2018 Fall Homecoming

Parkway High School's annual Fall Homecoming will be held Friday, September 28.
The events for the evening are outlined below: 

6:45 p.m.  - Parade begins at the high school parking lot
7:00 p.m. - Homecoming ceremony at the football field
7:30 p.m. - Varsity Football vs. Fort Recovery

Click Here for the details of the lovely young ladies above.

REMINDER

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday, September 28, 2018

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Friday, September 28, 2018 for the Homecoming Games (Ft. Recovery):

Brian and Lindsay Gruss, Rick and Cary Roehm, Lisa and Ryan Sheppard, Justin and Summer Ellis, Chris and Tracy Heitkamp, Brad and Justina High, Len and Kim Eller, and Tammy Schaaf.

Please arrive by 6:00 PM.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345.  Thank you for your help! 

 
September 26-27, 2018
 

Portion of Winkler Road to Close for Bridge Replacement
The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Winkler Road between State Route 49 and Short Road in Blackcreek Township for a bridge replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on October 1, 2018 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 6-8 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

Any additional questions, contact the Mercer County Engineer's Office at 419-586-7759.

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

OUR OLD BOOK CASE
By  Joyce L. Alig, President, Mercer County Historical Society, Inc.

Our Old Bookcase, September 27, 2018, 109 pound Turtle for Turtle Soup!

Photo caption:  Wilbur Meinerding and his friend stood next to the shell of a 109 pound turtle, the largest fresh water turtle ever brought to the Beckman and Gast Company to be used for turtle soup, at St. Henry!

How many local citizens worked at the Canning Factory at the Beckman and Gast Company at St. Henry in the 1950’s?  Who remembers making their famous Turtle Soup?  Who remembers eating that Turtle Soup on Friday?  There was a time, prior to the Ecumenical Council in the 1960’s, when Members of the Catholic Church did not eat meat on Friday that they ate turtle soup because eating turtle soup was not considered “eating meat!”  Turtle soup was sometimes called “Friday Chili.”

In the 1950’s, the Beckman and Gast Company at Saint Henry was doing a flourishing business all over the country, and were selling turtle soup to institutions, hotels, hospitals, schools, etc.  What brought about the rise and fall of the sales of turtle soup?

The Depression era in the 1930’s brought an economic need to the Beckman and Gast Company, for the creation of jobs in the winter, because the company had only been a seasonal employer for canning tomatoes, juice and puree.  Lewis Gast had heard of Joe Schnell, who was known for “making the best home-made turtle soup in the country,” at his restaurant at Piqua.  Beckman and Gast talked with Schnell about making turtle soup on a commercial basis, but Joe died unexpectedly and carried his secret formula for turtle soup to the grave.  Beckman and Gast saw a need for creating their own recipe for making turtle soup, and began experimenting until they hit upon a satisfactory formula for turtle soup, which was a grand success.  By the 1950’s, this product was a successful product for the Company.

The decline of turtle soup sales was partially attributed to the economy.  With the environmental protection laws of marine life in the 1960’s, the acquisition of turtles became more difficult, and the price of turtles increased enough to make their sales cost-prohibitive for the company.  As mentioned above, the Catholic Church was no longer asking its Members to not eat meat on Friday, which resulted in a decline in turtle soup sales.

The loss of having turtle soup on the menu was a loss to restaurants and to mothers preparing meals for the family. Thinking back to our meals and desserts of our childhood, we have lost a part of our good heritage that we took for granted.  Personally, I would like a dish of home-made ice cream, made with real cream from the cow, and fresh strawberries from the garden (and not from some greenhouse)!  What memories do you have from your childhood meals that you would like to have on your dinner table this evening? 

Another note of local history was carried in the October 25, 2012 “Community Post” at Minster.  Larry Prenger translated the German script, one hundred years ago, that read:  “The barn on the Gast Canning Farm half a mile south of Coldwater was destroyed by fire last week!”  Therefore, that fire would have been about the third week of October in 1912.  A thanks goes to Larry Prenger and the Community Post for preserving local history for midwestern Ohio.

Parkway Varsity Boys Golf Scores
by Coach Joe Falk

Celina Lynx, 9/10/2018 Parkway 211 against  New Knoxville 222
Team members: Mason Baxter (was the Medalist); Mason Baxter; Breyden Bruns; Adam Stephenson; Kaden Boroff, Jay Anderson and Gabe Schaff.

Catholic Social Services Events

Concert of Caring, a fundraising event benefiting the Sidney Office of Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley, will be held on Saturday, October 20, 2018, at Lehman Catholic High School in Sidney.

Entertainment for the 5th Annual Concert of Caring includes the Cincinnati Steel Ensemble, guitarist Danny Schneible, and the Dayton-based band This Side Up. 

Admission to the event is $50 per person and includes reserved table seating, open bar (beer and wine), dinner, entertainment, and the chance to bid on a variety of Silent Auction items donated by businesses, individuals, and local artisans.  

Bishop Binzer of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati will celebrate the Catholic Mass for event attendees in the Lehman Chapel at 5:00 p.m. 

The event begins at 6:00 p.m. with a cocktail hour and music by the Cincinnati Steel Ensemble, a 13-piece steel pan band directed by Michael Wendeln.  Wendeln is a native of Piqua and a 1999 graduate of Lehman Catholic.  Dinner will follow at 7:00 p.m., catered by The Spot restaurant and accompanied by local guitarist Danny Schneible.  The featured band  – This Side Up – will take the stage from 8-11 p.m. to provide a variety of music for dancing and high-energy fun.

OUR OLD BOOK CASE
By  Joyce L. Alig, President, Mercer County Historical Society

Van Wert County Fairground, aerial view of the Race track, 1920.  (Credit for this Post Card photograph, Lester Bensman  Collection).

W.A. Marker, Secretary, invited the public to the Van Wert County Fair, September 6-10, 1920.  This is his letter of invitation:

            “You are one of the 20,000 automobile owners invited to attend Our Fair.  The Fair Mecca for 1920 is Van Wert.

            “If you miss Our Fair, this year, you’ll miss one of the best in all the country.  Big exhibits in great variety – Fast Races – Free Acts  - Much to instruct you and much to make you laugh.  Come. Bring the Family.

            “All that is needed to insure a week of pleasure and profit is pleasant weather and a determination on  your part to attend The Van Wert County Fair, September 6-7-8-9 and 10, 1920.  W.A. Marker, Secretary.”

“The History of Van Wert County, Ohio,” was published by the Van Wert County Historical Society, Van Wert, Ohio, in 1981.  They included the history of their Van Wert County Fair.  The first Van Wert County Fair was held in 1856, on a four or five acre plot in the Northeast corner of the present Fairgrounds.  By 1900, the grounds covered 54 acres.  It was the first Fair to prohibit liquor and ban all gambling on its grounds.  One of the big attractions was the hot air balloon ascension.  The Northwest section of the Fairgrounds contained the grandstand and race track – one of the major attractions of the Fair.  In 1929, this grandstand burned down.  The grandstand was rebuilt, and placed in its present location.  This book is at your Van Wert County Library for you to learn more about your County History.

The early activities at this County Fair at Van Wert were similar to activities at other County Fairs across Ohio.   However, as the years went by, the Fairgrounds became a center of activities for other programs.  One activity which involved not only Van Wert Citizens, but also citizens from Mercer, Auglaize, Darke, and Paulding Counties and nearby Indiana Counties is the Old Fashioned Farmers Days whereby the Old Fashioned Farmers Association not only hosts exhibits of antique tractors and farm equipment, but also hosts a series of related activities. 

Van Wert is fortunate to have an active Fair Board and active local organizations.  If you do not have a brochure of the programs held throughout the year at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds, I suggest that you call the Van Wert County Fair board and ask for a brochure of their activities, or else ask for a copy of their Fair Book.

When was the last time that you attended a County Fair?  Perhaps, it is time for you to re-acquaint yourself with all of the fun, not only at Van Wert County Fair, but also at the other area County Fairs.  Plan ahead for next summer’s Fun at the County Fairs.

Nutcracker Ballet Coming to Van Wert
(Van Wert, OH) - Get ready for Christmas Entertainment with the Niswonger. Of course that includes the art-filled Christmas classic that releases Wednesday, September 12, Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, performed by the revered Ballet Theatre of Toledo, presented by Belna Petroleum. The Nutcracker will feature two performances Saturday, December 1 at 2 PM and 7:30 PM.

Christmas is a treasured time at the Niswonger as families throughout the region steal away from the hustle and bustle and relax together for memory making moments from the Niswonger stage of inspiration. The Christmas Season begins with a classic family favorite, Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker Ballet that features a LIVE Pit Orchestra. This lavish and spectacular ballet choreographed by Nigel Burgoine is legendary and will keep you on the edge of your seat with some unexpected surprises from the original classic. Delight the family with a night of seasonal artistry filled with “Sugar Plum Fairies” and oh-so-sweet memories.

Enjoy the Sugar Plum Fairy Dining Experience! This special Willow Bend Buffet begins at 5 PM. This fine dining experience adds a touch of elegance to the evening and ensures you get to the show on time. Call 419-238-0111 for reservations.

Along with Presenting Sponsor Belna Petroleum, Supporting Sponsors include Betsey’s Boutique, Humble Bumble, and NPAC Family Sponsor The Robideau Family. Season Sponsors for Ignite 18-19 include Chuck & Karen Koch, StateWide Ford Lincoln, and Van Wert Federal Savings Bank.

 

Tickets for Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker can be purchased through the Box Office Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 5 PM at 419-238-6722 and online at NPACVW.ORG

Citizen Academy to Start Soon with Mercer County Sheriff’s Department
Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today that his office will be hosting a Citizen Academy in October - November of 2018.  The purpose of the academy is to give residents of Mercer County the opportunity to see an overview of Sheriff’s Office, and how it differs from other law enforcement agencies.

This will be the fifth citizen’s academy for the Sheriff’s Office.  The first Mercer County Citizen’s Academy was hosted in 2013 and culminated in the graduation of (11) students.  We have had (60) students graduate from the academy since it was established. 

The classes have consisted of citizens from different backgrounds, age groups, and geographical areas of Mercer County.  The participants attend classes that are in lecture format, observe demonstrations, take tours of the facilities, and participate in hands on training sessions.  They are also provided with an opportunity to “job shadow” with staff members.

The 2018 academy will take place from October 23, 2018 until November 15, 2018, and will usually be held two evenings per week for a four week period.  The classes will begin at 6 p.m. and will last for 2-3 hours per session.

The academy is open to residents of Mercer County, who are at least 21 year old.   A background check is required.  Class size is limit.  Interested persons can stop at the Sheriff’s Office during office hours or go to our website at www.mercercountysheriff.org to obtain an application packet.  Completed applications need to be returned to the Sheriff’s Office by October 8, 2018.  If anyone has any questions they may contact Citizen’s Academy Coordinator, Sergeant Jay Wehrkamp, at (419) 586-7724.

Jeff Grey, Sheriff
Mercer County Sheriff’s Office
4835 SR 29
Celina, OH  45822
(419)586-7724

www.mercercountysheriff.org

 
September 24-25, 2018
 

Parkway's outside phone lines are down until around 10:00 am Tuesday.

Autumnfest Food, Auction and Fun Coming on October 14, 2018

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, 1522 Oregon Rd., Rockford, OH will be having their annual  “AUTUMNFEST”  on Sunday , October 14, 2018.

The evening begins with delicious food at 4:30.  The menu includes  Creamed Chicken, Roast beef and Hot dogs.  They will also be serving noodle and cheesy potato soup.  Pie and ice cream will also be included.

The church has once again secured the services of Tom & Eric Robbins for the auction which will begin at 5:30p.m.  Tom has been the auctioneer  for several years and has the ability to liven up the entire evening and make it fun for everyone.

The proceeds from the evening will be used for Call Food Pantry, Celina and Parkway Backpack Program and for future projects for the Women’s Fellowship.

Everyone is  invited to this event.

Mt. Tabor Church of God is hosting a women's retreat on November 9 & 10th.  It is called the Align Conference.

 
September 22-23, 2018
 

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday, September 28, 2018

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Friday, September 28, 2018 for the Homecoming Games (Ft. Recovery):

Brian and Lindsay Gruss, Rick and Cary Roehm, Lisa and Ryan Sheppard, Justin and Summer Ellis, Chris and Tracy Heitkamp, Brad and Justina High, Len and Kim Eller, and Tammy Schaaf.

Please arrive by 6:00 PM.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345.  Thank you for your help! 

Parkway Varsity Boys Golf MAC Scores
by Coach Joe Falk

Parkway finished 8th at the MAC Tournament, 9th in the final league standings. Mason Baxter -87 Breyden Bruns 104, Gabe Schaaf 100, Caden Slusher 106 for a 397 total. Mason Baxter made first team all MAC.

Mercer County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society to Meet
The Mercer County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society will meet Sunday, October 7th at 2:00 pm at the Richardson Bretz Building 119 West Fulton St., Celina.

Speaker will be author, David Kimmel. “Outrage in Ohio: A Rural Murder, Lynching, and Mystery”.

David Kimmel is a professor of English at Heidelberg University in Tiffin, Ohio. He is also a descendant of one of the suspects in the Mary Secaur murder which took place in Mercer County, Ohio in 1872.

As always, the meetings are open to the public. We would love to have you join us. Refreshment served.

Parkway Panther Athletic Schedule for September 24-29

 

September 24:

HS Volleyball @ LCC, 5:30 p.m.

JH Volleyball @ St. Mary’s, 5:00 p.m.

 

September 25:  

Girls Golf @ Sectionals, 9:00 a.m.

JH Volleyball vs. St. Henry, 5:00 p.m.  Boys Basketball Concessions

 

September 26:

No Athletic Events Scheduled
 

September 27:

Boys Golf @ Sectionals, 9:00 a.m.

HS Volleyball @ St. Henry, 5:30 p.m.

JH Volleyball @ LCC, 5:00 p.m.

JH Football @ Fort Recovery, 5:00 p.m.

 

September 28:

Varsity Football vs. Fort Recovery, 7:30 p.m.

 

September 29:

JV Football @ Fort Recovery, 10:00 a.m.

Cross Country @ Botkins Invitational, 10:00 a.m.

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey Makes Traffic Stop Arrests Suspected Drugs
Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today that his office is investigating a traffic stop that led to the seizure of more than 29 grams of suspected methamphetamine.

On September 20th at approximately 8:10 PM a deputy was on routine patrol when he noticed a passenger inside a vehicle attempting to cover his face. A short time later the vehicle went left of center and a registration check indicated the registered owner of the vehicle’s license was under suspension. The description of the registered owner matched the individual driving the vehicle.  The vehicle was stopped on Staeger Road near State Route 29.

The driver of the vehicle was identified as Katelynn Campbell, who did not possess a valid driver’s license. The male passenger was asked for identification and advised he did not have any with him, and provided a false name and date of birth.  A K9 from the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office was called to the scene. The K9 alerted on the passenger side of the vehicle for the presence of narcotics. The vehicle was searched and deputies recovered the ID of the passenger, a wallet and several baggies with suspected methamphetamine inside.   Deputies also recovered an unloaded .25 caliber Phoenix Arms handgun under the driver’s seat.

Arrested were the driver of the vehicle, Katelynn Campbell, age 26, of Hollansburg, Ohio and the passenger, Bailey S. Parker, age 19, of Van Wert, Ohio. While being transported to the Mercer County Detention facility, Ms. Campbell advised she also had drugs hidden internally in her body cavity. After a body scan at the detention facility more narcotics were located.

Both Campbell and Parker are presently being held in the Mercer County Detention facility on $100,000.00 bond. The case will be forwarded for review by the Mercer County Prosecutors Office.

Parkway Boys Golf Match Play Format
Varsity: Parkway 3  Celina 2

Mason Baxter (P) over Lance Mawer 3 and 2

Breyden Bruns (P) over David Kramer 3 and 2

Nate Boley  ( C ) over Duncan Morton 1 up

Brecken Adams ( C ) over Jay Anderson 2 and 1

Andy Metz (P) over Tyler Johnson 2 and 1

 
September 21, 2018
 

Free Movie Night at Rockford United Methodist Church

Rockford United Methodist Church will be holding a FREE MOVIE NIGHT on Saturday, October 6 at 7:00 p.m. in the

church's Social Room located at 202 South Franklin Street in Rockford, Ohio.  For more information, please call the church

office at 419-363-3230

The FREE MOVIE being shown is "Paul-Apostle of Christ."  A free-will donation will be accepted. 

Any profits will go toward sending Bibles to persecuted believers.  All is welcome to come and enjoy some fellowship.

 
September 20, 2018
 

Enjoy the Sock Hop This Weekend!

The 9th Annual Rockford Belle Sock Hop & Cruise in will be held on
September 22nd with Blind Date Band and Guests.

Classic cars cruise in starts at 4 pm (no entry fees) 
with 50's, 60's, 70's music from 5 - 8 pm.

Food tent available by the Belle Crew and DJ Auto.

Bring your lawn chairs for a Rockin good time !

Free Will donations support The Belle.

11^th Annual Celebrate 4-H Camp Palmer Day-Free event! Camp Open House

Sunday, October 7 - 11 am-4 pm & 5k run/walk at 9:30am

The general public is invited to a day of celebration and fun geared to the whole family family and for all ages. The event will take place at 4-H Camp Palmer in Fulton County-26450 County Rd. MN, Fayette Ohio 43521. 4-H Camp Palmer is owned and operated by 11 counties in northwest Ohio and also is an outreach of Ohio State University Extension. 

Please join us for a fun day!  Activities may include:  carnival games with pumpkin painting, wagon rides, camp store, zip line, rifle, nature center,

climbing tower, archery, gaga ball, canoeing, and flying squirrel ….

Free will offering picnic lunch will be provided on a first come, first serve   basis served from 12 noon-2:30 p.m. Also there will be craft and specialty vendors in Woodland lodge.  (more information on www.camppalmer.org)

October 7- 3rd Annual 5K run/walk beginning at 9:30 am prior to Celebrate activities. The race course will start at camp and end in the center of camp. Route will include roads around camp and Harrison Lake State Park. Awards will be given to top finishers in each age group. You may print a registration from www.camppalmer.com  or register online at Davesraces.com

For additional information, please call 419-237-2247 or email 4hcamppalmer@gmail.com

BROWN ANNOUNCES MORE THAN $139,000 FOR FIREFIGHTERS IN CONVOY

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded $139,980 to the Convoy Fire and EMS for operations and safety through the Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) Program.

“Ohio firefighters and first-responders work every day to protect our families,” said Brown. “We must support our first-responder organizations so that communities like Convoy have the resources to shield families and homes from fire hazards.”

The AFG Program supports fire departments across the country to ensure the safety of both first-responders and the public. The program provides funds for supplemental training, upgrades to protective equipment, facility modifications, and other supplies that protect firefighters and first-responders in moments of crisis. Grants are awarded to fire department-based and non-affiliated EMS organizations that best address the priorities of the AFG Program. More information about the AFG Program can be found here.

Interested fire departments can contact Brown’s grant coordinator to receive information about federal grant opportunities by clicking here.

Van Wert County Community Health Surveys
To Be Conducted During September and October 2018

Van Wert, OH – This week, the Van Wert County Health Collaborative, which is an initiative led by Van Wert Health and other supporting community organizations, will begin its survey of Van Wert County residents as part of a community health assessment process. The Van Wert County Health Collaborative is working closely with the Hospital Council of Northwest Ohio and researchers at the University of Toledo to conduct the survey. Over the next two months 1,200 Van Wert County residents will be randomly selected to participate in a health survey. Residents of Van Wert County who are randomly selected are urged to complete and return the survey.

The anonymous survey asks participants to answer questions about general health, risk and protective health factors, and access to health care. These answers will create a snapshot of the health of Van Wert County residents. The results will guide many public and private agencies in their program planning over the next several years by identifying key health problems. The final community health assessment report will be published in the Spring 2019 at which time the results will be used to prioritize needs and create a community health improvement plan.

If there are any questions or concerns about this survey, please contact Van Wert Health at info@vanwerthealth.org or by calling 419-238-2390.

 
September 19, 2018
 

PANTHERS WIN AGAINST VERSAILLES!!!

Story and Photos by James Leighner – Thank you for sharing, James!

On Friday, September 14, 2018, the Panthers hosted the Versailles Tigers.  

What a night it was for Panther Football.  The Panthers first quarter performance was almost unbelievable as they out scored the Tigers 21-7.  After that it became quite a defensive battle as neither team would find the end zone for the remainder of the game. 

You could just feel the excitement in the stadium growing as the 3rd quarter passed and the 4th quarter started to wind down.   The Panther offense kept grinding it out, eating away the clock. The defense kept slamming the door anytime Versailles started to gain momentum.  

Our Panthers again proved that they don't hang their heads and they don't give up!  What a night for Panther Football and a much needed win.  Hats off to the Panther players and coaches.  You guys earned it.

The Panthers will travel to Minster this Friday night, September 21, 2018 to take on the Wildcats in search of another win.  Hope to see everyone there!  Let’s get out there, show some Panther pride and support our team!

Click here for more great shots by James Leighner

Click smaller thumbnails below to enlarge:

 
September 17-18, 2018
 

Men’s Prostate Cancer Group to Hear About Life Stages

Man to Man is a group to support men who have been diagnosed with or have been treated for prostate cancer or who would like more information about prostate cancer.  At the next meeting Jim Saluke will be giving a presentation on approaching the various stages of our life, especially the later stages. .  The meeting will be held at 7:00PM on Tuesday, September 18th at the Joint Township District Memorial Hospital. The atmosphere is casual and all interested men are invited to attend.  For more information contact Dick Falkner, facilitator, at 419-629-9950 or mantoman@nktelco.net.

Parkway Class of 1963 Celebrates 55 Years
The Parkway Class of 1963 held its 55th class reunion on September 15 at the Rockford Community Building.  A delicious meal was catered by The Rockford Carry Out.  The committee members were John Schaadt, Jerry Reigle, and Denny Hoffhines. Attending were: front row, left: Judy (Merinar) Sutter, Elaine (Westerberg) Deitsch, Karen (Ray) May, Cathy (Kimmel) Mirtes, Cheryl (Baker) Hamrick, Candy (Brehm) Courtney, Carolyn (Walls) John; second row:  Bill Copeland, Don Frahm, Verna (Wollet) Winkler, Nancy (Sapp) Kline, Judy (Stewart) Dix, John Schaadt, Denny Hoffhines; third row: Ron Frahm, Doug Huffman, John Shafer, Francis Schaffner, Dan Reichard, Dean Osborn, Laverne Hamrick, and Jerry Reigle.  Not shown: Dave Rasawehr

COUNTY REMINDER

Ohio Law prohibits signs on trees and poles.

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart has issued a reminder that the Ohio Revised Code prohibits the erection of signs or affixing signs, posters or advertisement to any tree or utility pole within the right-of-way of any public highway.

Political candidates, campaign workers and supporters of issues appearing on the ballot are reminded that these signs are subject to removal.

Barn Quilts for Sale in Rockford - Bicentennial Project

When in Rockford, remember to stop by to see the Barn Quilts on sale now at the
Village Office and Museum located at 151 E Columbia St.   If you want to design
your own, contact Barb Pedroza at 419-305-1272.

New Member Joins Rockford Lions Club
Rockford Lions Rod Heiser (left) and Denny Hecht (right) welcomed Jeremy Heiser, (center) as a new member at our September 10th meeting. 

Plans are underway for the 13th Annual Lions Fish Fry on Saturday evening, November 3rd from 4:30-7 pm at the Rockford Community Building.   Members of the Rockford, Mendon, and Willshire Lions Clubs work together on this project.  All proceeds from the 2018 Fish Fry will help to support the Parkway 8th Grade Class Trip to Washington DC in Spring 2019. Tickets ($7 each) will soon be available from any Parkway Eighth Grade student or in the Parkway Middle School Office.

Rockford Lions are also planning several new projects for 2019.  Details will be released in the coming weeks.   Proceeds from these projects fund scholarships & help fulfill local community needs & requests. Globally Lions are involved in five humanitarian areas: Diabetes, Environment, Hunger, Childhood Cancer, and Vision.

The Rockford Lions Club meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of the month at the Rockford Carry Out, 156 S. Main Street.  

Michelle Houts, Local Author to Speak in October

Rockford Carnegie Library is getting ready to welcome local author Michelle Houts, to the Parkway Elementary and Middle School on Friday, October 12! Michelle will be bringing her wit, wisdom, and wonderful books to share with the Parkway students. Her books are available for checkout in the elementary and high school libraries as well as at the Rockford Carnegie Library. The library is sending home order forms for Michelle's books and will have them available at the Rockford Carnegie Library. She will make time to sign them on October 12 if you or your child would like to have it personalized. The public is welcome to order books and/or attend the school visit in the auditorium at the following presentation times: 8:30-9:15 am (2nd-4th), 9:45-10:30 am (K & 1st), 12:15-1:15 pm (7th & 8th), and 1:30-2:30 pm (5th & 6th). Questions? Call the library at 419-363-2630. To learn more about Michelle and her books check out https://michellehouts.com/  

 
September 15-16, 2018
 

Rockford Carnegie Library Announces Fall Events for the Whole Family
The Rockford Carnegie Library has some exciting programs coming your way. Playgroup has begun and will be held on Tuesday’s from 10-11a.m. It’s a time for preschool age kids to interact with stories, create crafts and most importantly, PLAY with kids their age. You don’t need to attend every week just come when it fits into your schedule. Contact us if you’re interested in seeing an afternoon or evening Playgroup form.

Our first Family Program of the school year will be Thursday, September 27 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. This is an opportunity for family members of all ages to spend some quality time together with a story, craft, snack and game. September’s theme is fall. Family Program’s will be offered monthly in the libraries basement.

We are excited to partner up with local artist and Lake Area Arts Group member, Jill Parris. She will teach a workshop on fundamental acrylic painting techniques. The workshop will cover things like blending and creating realistic clouds, trees, grass, etc. It is completely FREE but does require pre-registration by contacting the library (space is limited). Open to ages 12 and up.

Did you know we offer Home Bound Services to individuals in their homes or in nursing home facilities? One of our staff members will deliver materials tailored to the patron’s interests on a regular basis. Large Print books and audiobooks are very popular with our home bound patrons. This service provides patrons with a hobby as well as an enjoyable personal visit with a member of the library staff. We can also deliver to home daycares. Call the library to arrange a visit.

Other benefits Rockford Carnegie Library offers: our books are labeled with AR Levels to help students working to meet their AR goals; you can return books checked out from Celina and Mendon to our location and vice versa; and we exchange materials with 237 locations across Ohio so chances are we can get whatever it is you’re looking for.

Come discovery what your local library is all about, 162 South Main Street, Rockford. Call 419-363-2630 or email sm@rcpubliclibrary.org to sign up for our newsletter. Follow us on Facebook.

 
September 14, 2018
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 14 years.
 

Parkway Schools are now closed for Friday, September 14, 2018.

Parkway Schools are on a 2 hour delay due to fog for Friday, September 14, 2018

Widespread fog affecting many schools.

Thank you to Henkle Insurance for sponsoring the PWI Weather Link! 

 
September 12-13, 2018
 

The next meeting of the Shanes Crossing Historical Society will be held on
Monday - September 17th at 7 pm in the museum located on East Columbia St in
Rockford.  Our guest speaker will be David Kimmel who has done extensive
research on the murder of Mary Secaur in 1872 on Tama Road in Liberty Township.

David has written a book "Outrage in Ohio, a rural murder, lynching and mystery"
which follows the life of Mary through her death and the hanging of two young
men who were supposedly involved in the murder.  David may have copies
of the book for sale and will autograph them.  The public is encouraged to attend

 
September 11, 2018
 

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday, September 14, 2018

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Friday, September 14, 2018  (Versailles):

Rita Buffenbarger, Bill and Julie Huff, Tom and Shannon Heindel, Anissa and Carey Waters, Rob and Mitzi Frank, Tom and Julie Hileman, and David and Jennifer Barrett.

Please arrive by 6:30 PM.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345.  Thank you for your help! 

 

Patriot Day
Patriot Day is an annual observance on September 11 to remember those who were injured or died during the terrorist attacks in the United States on September 11, 2001. Many Americans refer Patriot Day as 9/11 or September 11.

Parkway Schools are now closed for Tuesday, September 11, 2018.

Parkway Schools are on a 2 hour delay due to fog for Tuesday, September 11, 2018

Widespread fog affecting many schools.

Thank you to Henkle Insurance for sponsoring the PWI Weather Link!

 
September 8-10, 2018
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 14 years.
 

Rockford United Methodist Church Plans Another Year of Kids Club and Meals

The members of Rockford United Methodist Church are planning another fun year of Kids Club and Meals afterwards at their location on 110 South Franklin St. in Rockford, OH 45882

(419) 363-3230

Kids Club starts September 5th and will run every Wednesday after school from 3:30 to 5 PM. The service is free but sign-up is necessary. Get your forms at the church or Parkway Elementary School office. Intended for ages K-5th children are transported from Parkway School to R.U.M.C.  where snacks, playing games, making crafts, and learning a Bible lesson makes for a fun after school program.  

A free community meal follows with Bible Study through December. Everyone is invited!

Reminder! Lima Area Concert Band Coming to Parkway High School

The Larry Seibert Memorial Concert featuring the Lima Area Concert band will be held on Sunday, September 9th at 3 pm in the auditorium at Parkway High School located at 400 W Buckeye St. in Rockford.

Adult tickets - $7 and Students - free
All proceeds will benefit the Parkway High School band.

The Lima Area Concert Band has been performing since 1971.  The band is
comprised of seventy volunteer musicians who all share the love of music.  The
members of the LACB are a living testimony that music truly is a lifetime activity.
It is a means of expression that encourages personal challenge, camaraderie, well spent
leisure time, and just plain fun.  It is a shining example of the value of music 
education in our schools.  

Larry Seibert, a Mendon native and more recently a citizen of Rockford, had played with the Lima Area Concert Band for more than 10 years playing the bassoon.  One of Larry's dreams was to offer the caliper of music that the Lima Area concert Band plays to his Rockford family and friends and to show to the local band students that playing music shouldn't end after high school.  

Please join us as we celebrate Larry's life and enjoy the wonderful music as performed by the extremely talented musicians of the Lima Area Concert Band. 

 
September 6-7, 2018
 

Poultry Winners – Van Wert County Fair

            Senior Poultry Showman Winner Trophy            Won by:         Torie Bockey

            Sponsored by:          Venedocia Lads & Lassies

            Int. Poultry Showman         Trophy            Won by:         Cody Gamble

            Sponsored by:          Delphos Pathfinders

            Junior Poultry Showmanship Winner     Trophy            Won by:         Morgan Anspach

            Sponsored by:          Carl and LaDonna Wollenhaupt

            Champion Poultry Showman        Chair  Won by:         Brooke Bockey

            Sponsored by:          Welch Trophy

            Champion Bantam Breeding Pen            Trophy            Won by:         Cody Gamble

            Sponsored by:          Ohio City Blue Ribbon Workers 4-H Club

            Champion Standard Breeding Pen          Trophy            Won by:         Breanna Shellabarger

            Sponsored by:          In Memory of Elwyn & Ethel Long by Carl & LaDonna

            Champion Bantam  Trophy            Won by:         Katie Gamble

            Sponsored by:          Stoller Farms, Inc.

            Champion Large Fowl        Trophy            Won by:         Breck Evans

            Sponsored by:          Carl and LaDonna Wollenhaupt

            Best Eggs      Cash  Won by:         Trey Evans

            Sponsored by:          Davis Farms

            Second Best Eggs   Cash  Won by:         Gracie Mull

            Sponsored by:          Davis Farms

            Grand Champion Broiler Pen        Banner           Won by:         Maceyn Snyder

            Sponsored by:          Century Trading Company

            Champion Broiler Pen        Trophy            Won by:         Maceyn Snyder

            Sponsored by:          Delphos Pathfinders

            Reserve Champion Broiler Pen    Trophy            Won by:         Torie Bockey

            Sponsored by:          Westwood Family Dental

            Reserve Champion Broiler Pen    Banner           Won by:         Torie Bockey

            Sponsored by:          NO DONOR

            Grand Champion Roaster Pen     Banner           Won by:         Torie Bockey

            Sponsored by:          Flat Lands Supply

            Grand Champion Roaster Pen     Trophy            Won by:         Torie Bockey

            Sponsored by:          Westwood Family Dental

            Reserve Champion Roaster Pen  Banner           Won by:         Brooke Bockey

            Sponsored by:          Century Trading Company

            Reserve Champion Bantam          Trophy            Won by:         Katie Gamble

            Sponsored by:          Vantage FFA

            Reserve Champion Roaster Pen  Trophy            Won by:         Brooke Bockey

            Sponsored by:          Westwood Family Dental

            Reserve Chamption Large Fowl   Trophy            Won by:         Nick Evans

            Sponsored by:          Hamrick Co. Line Farms, Willshire, Ohio

            Grand Champion Poultry Project  Trophy            Won by:         Breck Evans

            Sponsored by:          In Memory of Kenneth and Helen Mongold

            Broiler Pen Flight 1 1st Place        Medallion      Won by:         Nick Evans

            Sponsored by:          Staley Poultry Production LLC

            Broiler Pen Flight 2 1st Place        Medallion      Won by:         Trey Evans

            Sponsored by:          Van Wert SWCD

            Broiler Pen Flight 2 1st Place        Medallion      Won by:         Cody Gamble

            Sponsored by:          Harrison Jolly Boosters

            Broiler Pen Flight 4 1st Place        Medallion      Won by:         Maceyn Snyder

            Sponsored by:          Gibson's Barnyard BBQ

            Roaster Pen Flight 1 1st Place      Medallion      Won by:         Brooke Bockey

            Sponsored by:          Staley Poultry Production LLC

            Roaster Pen Flight 2 1st Place      Medallion      Won by:         Torie Bockey

            Sponsored by:          Van Wert SWCD

            Roaster Pen Flight 3 1st Place      Medallion      Won by:         Clayton Leeth

            Sponsored by:          Harrison Jolly Boosters

            Roaster Pen Flight 4 1st Place      Medallion      Won by:         Lauren Anspach

            Sponsored by:          Gibson's Barnyard BBQ

            Saturday, September 01, 2018      Page 2 of 2

Dairy Winners- Van Wert County Fair

            Senior Dairy Showman          Trophy Won by:           Connor Sheets

            Sponsored by: Macabob Farms

            Intermediate Dairy Showman Trophy Won by:           Kaleb Kraner

            Sponsored by: Crestview FFA

            Champion Dairy Showman    Chair   Won by:           Korey Oechsle

            Sponsored by: Jandi-K Farm

            Champion Jr Holstein Female            Trophy Won by:           Korey Oechsle

            Sponsored by: Hempfling Dairy Farm

            Champion Senior Holstein Female     Chair   Won by:           Korey Oechsle

            Sponsored by: Ren Bow Farm

            Champion Jersey Female      Cash    Won by:           Grant Mefferd

            Sponsored by: William C. Weldy and Family

            Champion Holstein Female    Cash    Won by:           Korey Oechsle

            Sponsored by: Call-Del Farm-J.R. & Angi Kaverman

            Grand Champion Dairy Female         Cowbell           Won by:           Korey Oechsle

            Sponsored by: Dairy Farmers of America

            Grand Champion Dairy Female         Banner            Won by:           Korey Oechsle

            Sponsored by: Gina Dairy

            Reserve Champion Dairy Female      Banner            Won by:           Grant Mefferd

            Sponsored by: Jim & Cheri Oechsle Family

            Friday, August 31, 2018        

2018 Van Wert County Fair Jr. Fair Herdsman Awards

Horse Herdsman

Junior: Paige Smith

Senior: Jacob Dealey

Swine Herdsman

Junior: Quintin Parrish

Senior: Jase Delgado

Turkey Flocksperson

Junior: Braxton Williamson

Senior: Evan Scarlett

Poultry Flocksperson

Junior: Breanna Shellabarger

Senior: Cody Gamble

Sheep

Junior: Tennesy Coil

Senior: Alex Wyatt

Goat Herdsman

Junior: Kale Kundert

Senior: Brynn Mollenkopf

Dairy

Junior: Courtney Mefferd

Senior: Christina Keen

Rabbit

Junior: Kaiven Welch

Senior: Katie Houter

Dairy Feeder:

Junior: Cole Miller

Senior: Kirsten Kline

Beef

Junior: Boone Baxter

Senior: Lili Dietrich

 
September 5, 2018
 

Goat Winners – Van Wert County Fair

            Senior Goat Showmanship           Trophy            Won by:         Cody Gamble

            Sponsored by:          Greif

            Intermediate Goat Showmanship Trophy            Won by:         Chloe Kroeger

            Sponsored by:          Sponsored by F & S Floor Covering

            Junior Goat Showmanship            Trophy            Won by:         Kale Kundert

            Sponsored by:          The Chris Lobsiger Family

            Champion Goat Showman            Chair  Won by:         Lillian Hempfling

            Sponsored by:          Phil & Chris Campbell

            Grand Champion Meat Goat Female       Trophy            Won by:         Lillian Hempfling

            Sponsored by:          Ag Credit

            Reserve Champion Meat Goat Female   Trophy            Won by:         Lillian Hempfling

            Sponsored by:          Citizen's National Bank: Pat Ryan

            Grand Champion Dairy Goat Female      Trophy            Won by:         Kale Kundert

            Sponsored by:          Darle, Linda, Seth, and Aaron Baker

            Reserve Champion Dairy Goat Female   Trophy            Won by:         Kale Kundert

            Sponsored by:          Crestview FFA

            Grand Champion Dairy Market Goat        Trophy            Won by:         Katie Hughes

            Sponsored by:          Lee's Ace Hardware

            Grand Champion Dairy Market Goat        Banner           Won by:         Katie Hughes

            Sponsored by:          Darle, Linda, Seth, and Aaron Baker

            Reserve Champion Dairy Market Goat    Trophy            Won by:         Chamberlynn Couts

            Sponsored by:          Darle, Linda, Seth, and Aaron Baker

            Reserve Champion Dairy Market Goat    Banner           Won by:         Chamberlynn Couts

            Sponsored by:          Darle, Linda, Seth, and Aaron Baker

            Boer Market Wether Class 1 1st    Trophy            Won by:         Brynn Mollenkopf

            Sponsored by:          Convoy Foxhunters

            Boer Market Wether Class 1 2nd  Trophy            Won by:         Ezra Friesner

            Sponsored by:          Ohio City Blue Ribbon Workers 4-H Club

            Boer Market Wether Class 2 1st    Trophy            Won by:         Austin Arnold

            Sponsored by:          Kenn-Feld Group

            Boer Market Wether Class 2 2nd  Trophy            Won by:         Austin Arnold

            Sponsored by:          Shooting Stars 4-H Club

            Boer Market Wether Class 3 1st    Trophy            Won by:         Lillian Hempfling

            Sponsored by:          Hall Lumber Co. Inc.

            Boer Market Wether Class 3 2nd  Trophy            Won by:         Katie Hauter

            Sponsored by:          Ram and Ewe Farms

            Boer Market Wether Class 4 1st    Trophy            Won by:         Tara Radabaugh

            Sponsored by:          Germann Goats

            Boer Market Wether Class 4 2nd  Trophy            Won by:         Lillian Hempfling

            Sponsored by:          Logan Heffelfinger

            Grand Champion Boer Market Goat         Trophy            Won by:         Lillian Hempfling

            Sponsored by:          In Memory of Gary Richey

            Grand Champion Boer Market Goat         Banner           Won by:         Lillian Hempfling

            Sponsored by:          Darle, Linda, Seth, and Aaron Baker

            Reserve Champion Boer Market Goat     Trophy            Won by:         Tara Radabaugh

            Sponsored by:          Citizen's National Bank: Al Saylor

            Reserve Champion Boer Market Goat     Banner           Won by:         Tara Radabaugh

            Sponsored by:          Darle, Linda, Seth, and Aaron Baker

            Market Goat 2nd Best Rate of Gain          Feed Scoop  Won by:         Korbin Hartman

            Sponsored by:          C&J Agri Service - John Bonifas

            Best Pigmey Goat    Trophy            Won by:         Cody Gamble

            Sponsored by:          Ram and Ewe Farms

Dairy Feeder Winners – Van Wert County Fair

            Sr. Dairy Feeder Calf Showman   Trophy            Won by:         Kassidy Klinger

            Sponsored by:          Mercer Landmark Ohio City and Glenmore Branches

            Senior Showman 2nd         Trophy            Won by:         Rayana Thatcher

            Sponsored by:          Clark Ringwald Family

            Intermediate Dairy Feeder Showman      Trophy            Won by:         Elyssa Renner

            Sponsored by:          Bob and Denise Pugh and Family

            Intermediate Showman 2nd          Trophy            Won by:         Lindsey Barnes

            Sponsored by:          Clark Ringwald Family

            Jr. Dairy Feeder Calf Showman    Trophy            Won by:         Clayton Mosier

            Sponsored by:          Gene and Drema Arn Family

            Junior Showman 2nd         Trophy            Won by:         Baylee Miller

            Sponsored by:          Clark Ringwald Family

            Champion Feeder Calf Showman           Chair  Won by:         Brett Schumm

            Sponsored by:          Allmandinger Custom Bailing

            Dairy Feeder Calf Winner Heat One        Trophy            Won by:         Rayana Thatcher

            Sponsored by:          The Ream Family

            Dairy Feeder Calf 2nd Place Heat 1        Trophy            Won by:         Luke Heffelfinger

            Sponsored by:          Richard L. Miller Realtor And Auctioneers

            Dairy Feeder Calf Winner Heat Two        Trophy            Won by:         Ryan Renner

            Sponsored by:          Waltz Meats

            Dairy Feeder Calf 2nd Place Heat 2        Trophy            Won by:         Grant Zielke

            Sponsored by:          Richard L. Miller Realtor And Auctioneers

            Dairy Feeder Calf Winner Heat Three     Trophy            Won by:         Clayton Mosier

            Sponsored by:          Ayers Mechanical Group

            Dairy Feeder Calf 2nd Place Heat 3        Trophy            Won by:         Elyssa Renner

            Sponsored by:          Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035 Delphos

            Dairy Feeder Calf Winner Heat Four       Trophy            Won by:         Elyssa Renner

            Sponsored by:          Jack and Sharon Bolenbaugh

            Dairy Feeder Calf 2nd Place Heat 4        Trophy            Won by:         Kirsten Kline

            Sponsored by:          Richard L. Miller Realtor And Auctioneers

            Dairy Feeder Calf Winner Heat Five        Trophy            Won by:         Ryan Renner

            Sponsored by:          Wrenco Trophy and Sportswear

            Dairy Feeder Calf 2nd Place Heat 5        Trophy            Won by:         Brett Schumm

            Sponsored by:          Richard L. Miller Realtor And Auctioneers

            Dairy Feeder Calf Winner Heat Six          Trophy            Won by:         Emma Bowersock

            Sponsored by:          Keber Family Farms

            Dairy Feeder Calf 2nd Place Heat 6        Trophy            Won by:         Brett Schumm

            Sponsored by:          Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035 Delphos

            Dairy Feeder Calf Winner Heat 7 Trophy            Won by:         Emma Bowersock

            Sponsored by:          The Ream Family

            Dairy Feeder Calf 2nd Place Heat 7        Trophy            Won by:         Logan Williams

            Sponsored by:          Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035 Delphos

            Dairy Feeder Calf Winner Heat 8 Trophy            Won by:         Abbi Marbaugh

            Sponsored by:          Sponsored by F & S Floor Covering

            Dairy Feeder Calf 2nd Place Heat 8        Trophy            Won by:         Alexis Bowen

            Sponsored by:          Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035 Delphos

            Dairy Feeder Calf: Best Rate of Gain       Feed Scoop  Won by:         Brett Schumm

            Sponsored by:          Pure Line Food Company Middle Point, OH

            Champion Dairy Feeder Calf        Trophy            Won by:         Clayton Mosier

            Sponsored by:          Allmandinger Cattle Farms

            GrandChampion Dairy Feeder Calf         Banner           Won by:         Clayton Mosier

            Sponsored by:          Wellman Seeds

            Reserve Champion Dairy Feeder Calf    Trophy            Won by:         Elyssa Renner

            Sponsored by:          Van Wert Co. Jr. Fair Board

            Reserve Champion Dairy Feeder Calf    Banner           Won by:         Elyssa Renner

            Sponsored by:          Randy Mueller Family

            Beef Winners – Van Wert County Fair        

            Senior Beef Showman       Trophy            Won by:         Liliana Dietrich

            Sponsored by:          Van Wert County Foundation Black Inc. Award

            Intermediate Beef Showman         Trophy            Won by:         Addie Sorgen

            Sponsored by:          Scott Equity Exchange

            Junior Beef Showman        Trophy            Won by:         Boone Baxter

            Sponsored by:          Holdgreve Beef Farm

            Champion Beef Showman            Chair  Won by:         Austin Sorgen

            Sponsored by:          Van Wert County Foundation Black Inc. Award

            Champion Supreme Female Overall       Banner           Won by:         Liliana Dietrich

            Sponsored by:          Van Wert Co. Cattlemen

            Reserve Supreme Female Overall           Banner           Won by:         Bryer Parrish

            Sponsored by:          Buckeye Angus-Chiangus Farms-Craig McNall & Sons

            Grand Champion Beef Feeder Calf         Banner           Won by:         Alexis Parrish

            Sponsored by:          Logan Heffelfinger

            Champion Beef Feeder      Cash  Won by:         Alexis Parrish

            Sponsored by:          Beef it Up 4-H Club - In Memory of Justin Adam

            Reserve Champion Beef Feeder Calf     Banner           Won by:         Abigail Dietrich

            Sponsored by:          Convoy Tastee Freeze

            Reserve Champion Beef Feeder  Cash  Won by:         Abigail Dietrich

            Sponsored by:          Churchview Farm - Simmentals

            Dairy Steer Best Rate of Gain       Feed Scoop  Won by:         Brendan Karl

            Sponsored by:          Keber Family Farms

            Dairy Steer 2nd Best Rate of Gain           Feed Scoop  Won by:         Maddie Gerdeman

            Sponsored by:          Convoy Tastee Freeze

            Grand Champion Dairy Steer        Banner           Won by:         Betty Vorst

            Sponsored by:          Jerry & Irene Luersman

            Champion Dairy Steer        Trophy            Won by:         Betty Vorst

            Sponsored by:          The Chris Vorst Family

            Reserve Champion Dairy Steer    Trophy            Won by:         Ethan Kemler

            Sponsored by:          Mike & Diane Owens

            Reserve Champion Dairy Steer    Banner           Won by:         Ethan Kemler

            Sponsored by:          Ryan Mohr Seed Becks Hybrids

            Performance Steer Best Rate of Gain      Feed Scoop  Won by:         Ryan Bowsher

            Sponsored by:          First Federal Savings and Loan

            Performance Steer 2nd Best Rate of Gain          Feed Scoop  Won by:         Brett Schumm

            Sponsored by:          Gene and Drema Arn Family

            Grand Champion Performance Steer      Banner           Won by:         Brett Schumm

            Sponsored by:          Arn Acres

            Champion Performance Steer      Trophy            Won by:         Brett Schumm

            Sponsored by:          First Federal Savings and Loan

            Reserve Champion Performance Steer  Trophy            Won by:         Ryan Bowsher

            Sponsored by:          Vantage FFA

            Reserve Champion Performance Steer  Banner           Won by:         Ryan Bowsher

            Sponsored by:          Wellman Seeds

            Show Steer 1st Weight Class        Trophy            Won by:         Morgan Miller

            Sponsored by:          In Memory of Andy Kemler By Double T Farm

            Show Steer 2nd Weight Class      Trophy            Won by:         Austin Sorgen

            Sponsored by:          Vantage FFA

            Show Steer 3rd Weight Class       Trophy            Won by:         Austin Sorgen

            Sponsored by:          Vantage FFA

            Show Steer Best Rate of Gain      Feed Scoop  Won by:         Caden Ringwald

            Sponsored by:          Delphos Pathfinders

            Show Steer 2nd Best Rate of Gain          Feed Scoop  Won by:         Morgan Miller

            Sponsored by:          Double T Farm

            Grand Champion Show Steer       Banner           Won by:         Austin Sorgen

            Sponsored by:          Dave Allmandinger Family

            Champion Show Steer       Trophy            Won by:         Austin Sorgen

            Sponsored by:          Kenn-Feld Group

            Reserve Champion Show Steer   Banner           Won by:         Landin Burch

            Sponsored by:          Jerry & Irene Luersman

            Reserve Champion Show Steer   Trophy            Won by:         Landin Burch

            Sponsored by:          Holdgreve Beef Farm

            Dairy Steer Drive 1 Winner            Trophy            Won by:         Betty Vorst

            Sponsored by:          Matthews Farms

            Dairy Steer Drive 2 Winner            Trophy            Won by:         Leslie Marbaugh

            2nd Place Show Steer 1st Weight Class Trophy            Won by:         Brett Schumm

            Sponsored by:          Miller Farms

            2nd Place Show Steer 2nd Weight Class           Trophy            Won by:         Landin Burch

            Sponsored by:          Magnum Farms & Transport

            2nd Place Show Steer 3rd Weight Class            Trophy            Won by:         Jake Bowersock

            Sponsored by:          Tim & Jackie Miller Family

            Performance Steer Drive 1 1st Place       Trophy            Won by:         Brett Schumm

            Sponsored by:          Amber Davis - Schrader Reality

            Performance Steer Drive 1 2nd Place     Trophy            Won by:         Ryan Bowsher

            Sponsored by:          Pond Seed Company

            Dairy Steer Drive 1 2nd Place       Trophy            Won by:         Ethan Kemler

            Sponsored by:          Pond Seed Company

            Dairy Steer Drive 2 2nd Place       Trophy            Won by:         Maddie Gerdeman

            Sponsored by:          Pond Seed Company

 
September 1-4, 2018
 

Parkway Versus Spencerville 8-31-2018

Story and Photos by James Leighner – Thank you for sharing, James!
Our Parkway Panthers hosted the Spencerville Bear Cats in the season's 1st home game.  

The Panther's got off to a slow start, finding themselves down two touchdowns only 5 minutes into the first quarter.

After the 2nd Spencerville score, the Panther's new head coach "Dusty" called time out and held a quick "Motivational Seminar" with the players.  I don't know what he said, but everyone there could see the results.  It was as if a different team walked back out on that field. 

The Panthers would then come back and score the next 2 touchdowns.  Spencerville would however find the end zone one more time before the half.  Halftime score Parkway 13, Bear Cats 21.

The second half proved just as exciting as the first.  Panthers had the only 3 quarter TD along with a 2 point conversion that would tie the game at 21. 
 

Spencerville scored midway in the 4th quarter to regain the lead and would intercept a pass on the Panthers final drive with just under minute left on the clock.  Final score Panthers 21 , Bear Cats 28.

No we didn't get that win, but just like in the first game with Crestview, the team DID NOT GIVE UP!  They didn't hang their heads when down, they kept going and kept fighting, right down to the end.

GO PANTHERS!

Click Here for the link to more of James' pictures. 

Click here for more Panther Football pictures.

Parkway September 2018 Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Job Opening at Local Church
Rockford United Methodist Church is seeking to fill part-time custodian position. Flexible hours.

Direct inquiries to 419-363-3230 or email officie.mgr.rumc@bright.net

Lake Improvement Association Opposes ODA's Proposed Distressed Watershed Rule Changes; Asks Public to Voice Opposition by Sept. 7

GRAND LAKE ST. MARYS -- The Lake Improvement Association has issued the following statement: 

The Ohio Department of Agriculture is proposing that the manure ban in the Grand Lake Watershed be lifted and producers be allowed to spread manure at all times of the year. This would replace the current rule, implemented in 2011, that prohibits manure spreading from Dec. 15 to March 15. 


The link to this proposed legislation change is listed below:
 

https://bit.ly/2N6r55n 


It is the opinion of the Lake Improvement Association that this new set of standards being proposed is an effort by ODA to have uniformity for both the Western Lake Erie basin as well as The Grand Lake Watershed. 


On behalf of the thousands of members and concerned citizens that The Lake Improvement Association represents, we feel that any changes that complicate manure spreading rules in our watershed at this time would be reckless and unfounded given the advances that have been made in decreasing nutrients from fields. This progress our producers have made in nutrient reduction is detailed in Dr. Steven Jacqeumin’s published research here:  


https://dl.sciencesocieties.org/publications/jeq/pdfs/47/1/113?search-result=1


With this in mind, the Lake Improvement Association vehemently opposes the proposed changes in the distressed watershed package for Grand Lake St. Marys.


Furthermore, the proposed rule changes were drafted, voted on, and listed for public comment without contacting any individuals who are dealing with the watershed on a daily basis at the local level. Additionally, this new package was quietly released on a Friday before a holiday weekend with only a 7-day window for public comment. We find this unbecoming as it seems like an attempt to skirt public reaction. 


The Lake Improvement Association requests that these questions be answered immediately :
 

·        There is published data to prove that our current watershed rules are decreasing nutrients leaving fields in the GLSM watershed. Do you (ODA) have equivalent data to prove that these rule changes will be equally or more effective than the current rule set?

·        Is it possible to keep the current manure ban and add the chemical fertilizer, weather provisions, and application practices in the new proposal for the GLSM distressed watershed package? 

·        Does ODA feel that these new proposals are realistically enforceable? 

·        If yes, what has changed since the last distressed watershed package was issued? The manure ban was put into place, as it was the only viable plan that provided realistic enforcement opportunities.

 
Please voice your opposition to the proposed manure changes by Sept. 7, 2018, by emailing AGReComments@agri.ohio.gov. That is the email address for public comments, and the most critical action you can take today. In addition, please consider emailing your representatives. You can do so via https://democracy.io and https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative. 

Media contact: 

Brian Morris
Vice President, Lake Improvement Association
brianmorrispr@gmail.com

 
August 31, 2018
 

The Panther varsity football team traveled to Crestview last Friday, August 24th  to open the season against the Knights.

The Knights did take an early lead and would continue to lead the whole way.  But that doesn't mean our Panthers didn’t give us any excitement.   Even while behind the team continued to play and kept their heads held high.  They did not give up! 

Click below for awesome game pictures by James - Thank you for sharing!

https://photos.app.goo.gl/er1FkNRUyBYkiCYu7

Click smaller thumbnails below to enlarge:

Parkway Panther Seniors by James Leighner

 
August 29-30, 2018
 

Rockford United Methodist Church Plans Another Year of Kids Club and Meals

The members of Rockford United Methodist Church are planning another fun year of Kids Club and Meals afterwards at their location on 110 South Franklin St. in Rockford, OH 45882

(419) 363-3230

Kids Club starts September 5th and will run every Wednesday after school from 3:30 to 5 PM. The service is free but sign-up is necessary. Get your forms at the church or Parkway Elementary School office. Intended for ages K-5th children are transported from Parkway School to R.U.M.C.  where snacks, playing games, making crafts, and learning a Bible lesson makes for a fun after school program.  A free community meal follows. Everyone is invited!

Parkway Boys Golfers Take on Crestview and Win on August 28, 2018
by Coach Joe Falk

Under match play rules, the Parkway Panthers defeated the Crestview Knights 6-0 at the Celina Lynx Golf Club (par 36) for their first win of the year.


 

Mason Baxter (P) over Coleton Lautzenheiser (CV) 3 and 2

Breyden Bruns (P) over Dillon Underwood (CV) 1 up

Adam Stephenson (P) over Will Sharpe (CV) 5 and 4

Caden Slusher (P) over Olivia Skelton (CV) 3 up

Hunter Gibson (P) over Scott Bowen (CV) 4 up

Kaden Boroff (P) over Tanner Myers (CV) 5 and 4

In addition, Kaden Boroff made a hole in one on  #3 a 157 yard, par 3 .

Parkway Varsity Boys Golf Scores
by Coach Joe Falk

Celina Lynx, 8/27/2018 Parkway 206 against  Versailles 192
Team members: Mason Baxter (was the Medalist); Mason Baxter; Breyden Bruns; Adam Stephenson; Andy Metz; Hunter Bruns and Jay Anderson.

Arrowhead Golf Club, 8/23/2018 Parkway 209 against  New Bremen 203
Team members: Mason Baxter (was the medalist); Breyden Bruns; Adam Stephenson; Andy Metz; Hunter Gibson; Caden Slusher; Gabe Schaaf.

Celina Mercer Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Four U
The Celina Mercer Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome their newest member Four U Packaging & Supplies.  Four U Packaging & Supplies is your go to for just about any type of project or service.  Four U offers a complete janitorial supply list to handle any and all projects.  Four U Packaging offers the best products from paper, packaging, hazard & spill control, chemicals, food service, equipment, parts, and so much more.  Located a 7980 Havemann Rd in Celina, OH, Four U Packaging will assist you in finding what products will best fit your needs.  Four U Packaging can be reached at 419-586-5393.  Chamber Executive Director Stacy Beougher welcomed Jeremy and Dee Uhlenhake of Four U. 

Special Presentation to be Given at the Next Genealogy Meeting
The Mercer County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society will meet Sunday, September 9th at 2:00 pm at the Richardson Bretz Building 119 West Fulton St., Celina.

Celebrating the 150th Anniversary of St. Paul Catholic Church, Sharpsburg, OH. Nancy Ables and Helen LeFevre will give a presentation on the history of the town, church and school.

As always, the meetings are open to the public. We would love to have you join us. Refreshment served.

 
August 27-28, 2018
 

Come to the Van Wert County Fair August 29 through September 3, 2018
See Fair information and links on the ad above.

Celina Police Department Reports Car in Lake

On Sunday, August 26, 2018, at about 9:55PM, officers from the Celina Police Department responded to a report of a car in the lake just off of the intersection of Lakeshore Dr. and Ash St.  Upon arrival they found a 2009 Nissan Altima in the water, partially submerged.  The driver, 61 year old David H. Szwajkowski of Schererville, Indiana, was out of the car, but, still in the water.  He was pulled from the water by a responding officer.  He was uninjured.

Mr. Szwajkowski stated he thought he was in a turnaround area when he drove into the water.  Mr. Szwajkowski submitted to field sobriety testing and subsequently a breath test.  He tested .172 BAC, over twice the legal limit.  He was arrested and charged with OVI and held at the Mercer Co. Adult Detention Center.

The Rockford Bicentennial committee will be meeting on 
Monday - September 10th at 7 pm.   

*Note date change because of the Labor Day Holiday.

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday August 31, 2018

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Friday August 31, 2018  (Spencerville). Please arrive by 6:30 PM.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345.  Thank you for your help! 
Ryan and Kelly Sipe, Luke Stephenson, Don and Sara Beeks, Chuck and Brenda Smith, Sam and DeVona Albright, John and Kelly Stephenson, Eric and Amanda White and Melissa Kauffman

 
August 25-26, 2018
 

Rockford Announces Community Events at Council Meeting on August 21, 2018
by Lisa Kuhn, Fiscal Agent

Click Here for the rest of the news!

September 8th – Fall Craft and Vendor Show – 10 am – 3 pm at the Shanes Park Community Building

September 9th – The Larry Seibert Memorial Concert featuring the Lima Area Concert Band - $7 donation – Parkway Auditorium – 3 pm - Proceeds go to Parkway Band

September 22nd – 9th Annual Sock Hop and Cruise in @ The Rockford Belle - 4 – 8 pm

September 22nd – Rockford Fire Department / Open House – Chicken dinner – Reverse Raffle – 5 -7 pm – tickets on sale now !

September 29th – Mercer County Household Hazardous Waste Day and Steel drop off – Mercer County Fairgrounds – 9 – 1 pm

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

Fall Craft & Vendor Show

Saturday - September 8th - 10 am - 3 pm

Rockford Community Building
420 Holly Lane, Rockford, OH  

There will be concessions 

Admission - $1.00 12 yrs & up.

Proceeds benefit - Parkway Music Boosters.

Fifth Annual Dancing with the Big Stars Coming on November 17, 2018

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mercer, Auglaize and Van Wert Counties would like to announce the Fifth Annual Dancing with the Big Stars on November 17th, and tickets are on sale.

The 2018 cast includes 9 couples this year.
Couple 1: Ethan Westgerdes (Brew Nation) and Lisa Heckman.
Couple 2: Fr. Matt (Ft. Recovery Catholic Cluster) and Barb Powell.
Couple 3: Carrie Rosenbeck (Home Experts Realty) and Mark Heckman.
Couple 4: Shawnta Selzer (Briarwood Village) and Dennis Fulmer.
Couple 5: Axel Lundstrom (Dannon Yougurt) and Stacy Smuts.
Couple 6: Debbie Wagner (Mary Kay) and Andrew Heckman.
Couple 7: Pete Lisi (Celina City Schools) and Kathyrn Braunworth.
Couple 8: Terri Berning (Marion Local Schools) and Jeff Schnippel.
Couple 9: Kirk Stucker (Mercer County Elks) and Jill Fulmer.

The professional dancers represent several dance studios throughout our servicing area, including:  Boyds Dance Studio, The Dance Centre, and Wagner Dance.  We also have professional dancers representing Crown, Schnippel Electric, US Postal Service, ValCo Company, Director of Children’s Ministy at Forest Park, and Nidec Minster Company.

Dancers will be taking lessons, rehearsing their dances and soliciting funds over the next few months. The BIG Star Award will be announced at the dinner performance and is based on the celebrity dancer that raises the most money on behalf of Big Brothers Big Sisters. In addition, a Judge’s Choice Award will be given to the couple that has the best dance performance based on the judges’ critiques.

The night’s featured judges are Jane Diller, Lucy Staugler and Eric (Bruno) Wellman.

You can purchase the tickets by calling 419-584-2447.  The dancers have been working hard on their routine, and it will be a performance you won’t want to miss. Big Brothers Big Sisters is a non-profit organization that appreciates your support.

Many Attend Rockford Council Meeting on August 7, 2018 to Comment
About Duncan Oil Owned - Rockford Road Dog (Formerly T.J's Grocerette)
Requesting Liquor Permit

Fremont Canning Company to Expand

Click here to read the council minutes by Fiscal Agent, Lisa Kuhn
 

Duncan Oil / Rockford RoadDog recently requested a TREX transfer for a liquor permit to the Village.    
Council voted to reject the request.     Discussion was held with many village residents in attendance.

Gehle did some research and feels that competition in business is good, however, Mercer County has already decided that we have enough liquor permits based on our population, and we would be going against that quota by allowing a transfer to take place.   We are maxed out on permits and shouldn’t allow one to be transferred in. 

Motion Pontsler to deny the TREX transfer for a liquor permit.  Second Gehle.  Now called for the question.  Pontsler = y, Gehle = y, Now = y, Young = y,  Heitkamp – abstain conflict of interest.   The request has been denied.

Also in exciting news, the Fremont Canning Company is doing a $27 million warehouse expansion that will require special access from U.S. Route 33 on the east edge of Rockford. Council reminds residents that they are hiring approximately 70 people.  This will be a boost to Rockford!

The Rockford Chamber congratulates - Courtney Lies, Pakrway Graduate of 2018!   She was awarded the Chamber Scholarship on Wednesday - May 16^th, 2018   

Rockford Council Passes RESOLUTION 06-18 on June 16, 2018
Read Council Minutes here by Lisa Kuhn, Fiscal Officer

A RESOLUTION DECLARING THE VILLAGE’S INTENT TO PROCEED TO PLACE ON THE NOVEMBER 2018 GENERAL ELECTION BALLOT A 2.8 MIL RENEWAL LEVY FOR GENERAL FUND EXPENSES FOR THE VILLAGE OF ROCKFORD.

 
August 23-24, 2018
 

OUR OLD BOOK CASE
By  Joyce L. Alig, President, Mercer County Historical Society

 
Photo caption:   At Rockford, stand on the corner of Pearl and Main Streets and look to the North.  Compare Rockford’s past Main Street, with its present Main Street today.

Rockford’s Main Street at the corner of Pearl Street, is an outstanding example of Main Streets in rural America, a Century ago.  The top photograph is on a post card, dated May 21, 1908.

The bottom photograph is a post card, facing north, on the same street corner.  In 2001, I worked with Members of the Shanes Crossing Historical Society Norman Van Tilburg, Dan Henkle and Robert Thompson as we prepared the book, “Our Post Card Past; Rockford, Ohio,”  in celebration of Ohio’s Bicentennial 1803 – 2003.  This book was a part of a series, which included “Mercer County’s Post Card Past,” “Celina’s Post Card Past,” and “Grand Lake’s Post Card Past.”

The old “photograph” post cards produced at the turn of the past Century, preserve local history with a clear image of the sites in Mercer County.  When we can compare a photograph with a close-up image of a few buildings on Main Streets, with  a photograph of buildings for a block or two, this gives us a perspective of the range of buildings on Main Street.  The ornate brick buildings stand shoulder to shoulder with the frame buildings. 

With the help of a magnifying glass we can sometimes read the names of the buildings and/or of the advertisements or signs.  On the top photographs, look at the sidewalks; would they be constructed of concrete?  Would the wooden pole on the corner be for electric wires?  I see a fire hydrant on the corner on the left side of the photograph.  On the right side of the photograph, would that tower contain the siren for the Fire Department?

Rockford will soon be celebrating two centuries of progress in 2020, honoring the June 23, 1820 date when the Village of Shanesville was platted by Anthony Shane.

How many citizens in Rockford or Dublin Township, or across Mercer County, or else in other places across the U.S.A. have old post cards related to the History of Rockford?  If you have already showed  your old photographs and post card photographs to the Shanes Crossing Historical Society, that is great.  Don’t wait until 2020 and realize the you have old photos or post cards back in drawers, attics, or albums, which you could have provided copies of the photos and/or post cards to the 200th Celebration Committee.

Along with the rest of citizens living in the area of Rockford, and those former citizens of Rockford, and the rest of Mercer County citizens and nearby counties’ citizens, I look forward to visiting Rockford in 2020 and seeing the historical exhibits and attending the historical programs planned and implemented by today’s Rockford Citizens.  Rockford’s past citizens have produced a fine community today.  People who honor Mercer County’s heritage are among the outstanding citizens of Mercer County.

Mercer County Post Cards and Mercer County’s “closed” Post Office Post Marks, will be on exhibit at the Mercer County Historical Museum, on Sunday afternoon, November 11.  You are most welcome to bring your own post cards to show the public that afternoon.

[Mercer County Historical Society President Joyce Alig, may be contacted at 3054 Burk-St. Henry Road, Saint Henry, OH 45883,  or histalig@bright.net or 419-678-2614.

Wassenberg to Hold Art Event
The Wassenberg Art Center, Van Wert, will be accepting entries for their 41st Annual Wassenberg Art Center Photography Exhibit. Amateur, professional and youth photographers are encouraged to submit their work for this revered photography tradition. This is a juried exhibit entry does not guarantee exhibition. There are over $1300 in total cash prizes. Entry deadline is Thursday, September 14, 2018, midnight.

The exhibit will be on view through October 27.

For more information on classes, exhibits, and events please call the Wassenberg Art Center at: 419.238.6837.

New Member Joins Celina Mercer County Chamber

The Celina Mercer Co. Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome one of their newest members...Performance Physical Therapy & Wellness. Performance Therapy is independent and locally owned with clinics in Coldwater and Fort Recovery. Jacqui Broering, Owner, began working as a Physical Therapy Assistant, then a Physical Therapist and lastly, a Clinic Director. The experience gained was instrumental in gaining the knowledge-base and experience for managing a clinic. Yet, Jacqui feels her greatest strength is the passion she has for the profession.

"We understand that people in this area are hard-working and take pride in what they do. This is the foundation for which this clinic is based." Their staff of therapists will work with you to achieve your goals. The goal is simple…deliver the best care possible! For more information or clinic services you can contact Performance Therapy and Wellness at 730 E. Main Street in Coldwater or call 419-763-1464. Your success is their goal!

Vantage welcomes new staff for the 2018-2019 school year  Pictured left to right:  Audrey Stechschulte, Math, Melissa McClurg, OTC Adult Education Director, Dianna Ashbaugh, Assistant Treasurer, Anna Baker, Superintendent Secretary, Mickey McConahay, School Counselor, and Gary Cearns, Welding Instructor.

 
August 21-22, 2018
 

Prayer Walk Precedes New School Year
The Prayer Walk for our Schools was held Saturday, August 18, 2018. Sponsored by Rockford United Methodist Church, approximately 30 people took part in walking the perimeter of the Parkway School, stopping to pray at each entrance/area of activity. This is an annual event, held just as school begins for a new school year.

School Supplies Donated

Volunteers sort supplies received during Our Home Family Resource Center’s 2018 Back-To-School Supply Drive. Thanks to the generosity of our Mercer County community, 306 children in need from all across the county (Celina, Coldwater, Immaculate Conception, St. Henry, Parkway, and Ft. Recovery) will return to school with new book bags and essential school supplies.  

Parkway Varsity Boys Golf Scores
by Coach Joe Falk

Celina Lynx, 8/20/2018 Parkway 207 against  Marion Local 201
Team members: Mason Baxter; Breyden Bruns; Adam Stephenson; Kaden Boroff; Andy Metz; and Caden Slusher

Mercer County Elks, 8/16/2018 Parkway 205 against  Coldwater 162
Team members: Mason Baxter; Breyden Bruns; Adam Stephenson; Andy Metz; Hunter Bruns and Gabe Schaaf.

 
August 20, 2018
 

Parkway Schools Begins on Monday, August 20, 2018
Please be careful as you drive! Watch for our students!

Click here for the 2018 Parkway High School Football Team Roster

Click here for the 2018 Parkway High School Golf Teams Rosters

Click here for the 2018 Parkway High School Cross Country Team Roster

Click here for the 2018 Parkway Middle School Cross Country Team Roster

Click here for the 2018 Parkway High School Volleyball Team Roster

Click here for the 2018 Parkway Junior High Football Team Roster

Click here for the 2018 Parkway Junior High Volleyball Team Roster

 
August 15-19, 2018
 

Parkway August 2018 Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Parkway offers a FREE online service to help manage your student’s meal account. You can view balances, view history, and receive an automatic low balance notification. To register go to www.k12paymentcenter.com

MEAL CHARGING GUIDELINES K-4th will be allowed to charge 5 meals, then 3 courtesy meals at no charge if a payment has not been received. No more meals will be offered until a payment is received. 5-8th will be allowed to charge 3 meals, then will be offered 3 courtesy meals at no charge if a payment has not been received. No more meals will be offered until a payment is received. 9-12th will be allowed to charge 1 meal. No courtesy meals will be offered. No more meals will be offered until a payment is received.

Parkway Panthers Weekly Update for August 20 - 25

By A.D. Matt Triplett

August 20:

Girls Golf @ Marion Local, 4:30 p.m.

Boys Golf vs. Marion Local, 4:30 p.m.

August 21:  

Boys Golf vs. LCC, 4:30 p.m.

Cross Country @ Marion Local, 4:30 p.m.

August 22:

No Athletic Events Scheduled

August 23:

Girls Golf vs. New Bremen, 4:30 p.m.

Boys Golf @ New Bremen, 4:30 p.m.

JH Football vs. Anna, 5:00 p.m.

HS Volleyball @ Adams Central, 5:30 p.m.

JH vs. Adams Central, 5:00 p.m.

August 24:

Varsity Football @ Crestview, 7:00 p.m.

August 25:

JV Football vs. Crestview, 10:00 a.m.

Cross Country @ Celina Rotary Invite, 9:00 a.m.

Varsity Volleyball, Panther Invite, 9:00 a.m.

Van Wert Health Plans $45M Hospital Expansion

Van Wert, OH – Van Wert Health today announced major plans to expand and improve critical areas of the hospital.  The new $45 million expansion will be built on the site of the current Van Wert Health main campus and construction is expected to take approximately 2 years. 

“The health providers at Van Wert Health are top notch and the growing health care needs of our community are simply different today than they were 58 years ago when the hospital was built,” said Jim Pope, President and CEO of Van Wert Health. “Upgrades are needed and after much research, we determined it was more cost-effective to build a new facility which will enhance the services we offer, rather than to attempt to upgrade and retrofit the original facilities. We face capacity issues on a daily basis, and improving and expanding health care options is integral to our mission to be the Best Community Hospital.”

When complete, the current hospital will be anchored by a new two-story, 84,000 square-foot facility which will help further address the health care needs of residents and visitors in our area.  “This addition to our campus will greatly benefit our ability to take care of more patients and to give them the best experience for all of their health care needs right here in Van Wert,” shared Pope. “Over time, the current hospital building will be upgraded and will house business offices and help with our expanding physician office space needs.  This major expansion will raise the bar on what a community hospital can – and should – be,” Pope continued.

Plans for the major expansion include:

State-of-the-art surgery area which will  increase Van Wert Health’s surgical capacity, including:

Four large surgery suites to accommodate today’s more advanced surgical equipment

Three endoscopy rooms

16 private pre-surgical and post-operative rooms

Post-anesthesia care unit

New pre-admission testing area with convenient access to lab and x-ray services

Private post-surgery pick-up area

New, more private patient registration area

All new, private acute care patient rooms

Dedicated critical care area including five intensive care unit rooms

All new labor and delivery rooms, C-section suite, and additional OB/GYN rooms

Enhanced space for IT to support new information and clinical data systems

New café

New lobby and parking lot to make visiting Van Wert Health more comfortable and convenient for patients and visitors.

“It’s astonishing to see how far we’ve come with the support of the community. We are making history with this expansion project, which will ensure the best health care possible is available for Van Wert and the surrounding communities, right in their own backyard,” said Tim Jurczyk, chairperson of the Board of Trustees for Van Wert Health.

“The City of Van Wert is happy with the Van Wert Health announcement that they are expanding the inpatient and surgical facilities of the hospital,” said Van Wert City Mayor, Jerry Mazur.  “By making such a significant investment in our community, Van Wert Health is making it clear that they are committed to providing the very best care to the people in northwest Ohio.”

An official groundbreaking ceremony will take place on Thursday, August 16 and construction is expected to start in mid-September.  Throughout the construction process, traffic on the main campus is expected to be temporarily re-routed. Patients and visitors are requested to carefully watch for directional signs to navigate safely around the construction zones.  Signs will be clearly posted and updates will be posted in local media outlets and on social media. 

The expanded hospital is being designed from the ground up by Design Collaborative, Inc. and the construction project will be managed by Weigand Construction. 

About Van Wert Health

Van Wert Health is an independent, nonprofit community hospital and physician group that provides comprehensive healthcare to Van Wert County, Ohio, and the surrounding region. They work to meet the health needs of their patients by continually assessing and improving the quality of care they provide. Van Wert Health has served the region since 1905. Their patient-focused approach is at the forefront of their mission to be the best community hospital.

 
August 13-14, 2018
 

New Horizons Community Church Summer Bash
New Horizons Community Church is hosting a FREE community event! Our end of summer bash will take place on Sunday, August 19th from 4-6:30 PM. There will be free food, live music by “Blind Date”, inflatables, pony rides and a petting zoo for the kids! Please join us for a time of fun and fellowship!

 Memory Sharing for Rockford 
A meeting will be held on Monday, August 20th at 1:00pm for all interested in sharing their memories of growing up in Rockford.  The meeting will be a roundtable discussion held in the Village Hall and is open to the public.  If you have any memories you would like to share but cannot attend, feel free to contact the village office at 419-363-3032.  

THE ILLUSIONISTS  – LIVE FROM BROADWAY COMES TO VAN WERT

(VAN WERT, OH) - On the heels of a highly successful multi-city tour and run on Broadway, the world’s best-selling touring magic show, THE ILLUSIONISTS - LIVE FROM BROADWAY™ (theillusionistslive.com), will play at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center on Thursday, October 11 as part of its North American tour in 2018. Tickets for THE ILLUSIONISTS are on sale now  at the Niswonger Box Office: NPACVW.ORG or 419-238-6722

THE ILLUSIONISTS - LIVE FROM BROADWAY™ is produced by Simon Painter, Tim Lawson and MagicSpace Entertainment. Conceived by Simon Painter, the show’s creative team also includes executive producer Tim Lawson and director Neil Dorward.

Full of hilarious magic tricks, death-defying stunts and acts of breathtaking wonder, THE ILLUSIONISTS has shattered box office records worldwide and thrilled audiences of all ages with a mind-blowing spectacular showcasing the jaw-dropping talents of five of the most incredible illusionists on earth.

The Niswonger is located at 10700 SR 118 S, Van Wert, Ohio. For more information visit online www.npacvw.org.

Parkway School Board Agenda by Sally Cox for August 14, 2018

Rockford United Methodist Church Annual School Prayer Walk on Saturday
The Rockford United Methodist Church will sponsor the annual School Prayer Walk on Saturday, August 18th at 8:30 a.m. This is open to anyone who would like to lift up the 2018-2019 school year in prayer.  Participants will meet outside of the Parkway High School entrance and prayer will be offered there.  The group will then walk around (or use any wheeled device appropriate for sidewalks) the outside of the school, stopping at various locations to pray.  Specific groups and programs will be lifted up.  Participants may either offer a prayer out loud as led, or pray silently as others lead prayer.  The School Prayer Walk will last approximately one hour.

 
August 9-12, 2018
 

Lima Area Concert Band Coming to Parkway High School

The Larry Seibert Memorial Concert featuring the Lima Area Concert band will be held on Sunday, September 9th at 3 pm in the auditorium at Parkway High School located at 400 W Buckeye St. in Rockford.

Adult tickets - $7 and Students - free
All proceeds will benefit the Parkway High School band.

The Lima Area Concert Band has been performing since 1971.  The band is
comprised of seventy volunteer musicians who all share the love of music.  The
members of the LACB are a living testimony that music truly is a lifetime activity.
It is a means of expression that encourages personal challenge, camaraderie, well spent
leisure time, and just plain fun.  It is a shining example of the value of music 
education in our schools.  

Larry Seibert, a Mendon native and more recently a citizen of Rockford, had played with the Lima Area Concert Band for more than 10 years playing the bassoon.  One of Larry's dreams was to offer the caliper of music that the Lima Area concert Band plays to his Rockford family and friends and to show to the local band students that playing music shouldn't end after high school.  

Please join us as we celebrate Larry's life and enjoy the wonderful music as performed by the extremely talented musicians of the Lima Area Concert Band. 

Wabash Telephone Company now has speeds up to 1 gig for your Internet.

Visit them at www.wabash.com or call 419-942-1111 for the details.

 
August 8, 2018
 

Don Speck of SpeckShots to Shoot Fall Sports Pictures at Parkway

Wednesday, August 8, 2018

8:30 AM  Senior Athletes Picture at Football Field
9:00 AM Jr. High/HS Cheerleaders at Football Field

10:00 AM Cross Country at Football Field

10:30 AM Volleyball in Gym

1:00 PM  Band

3:30 PM HS Football at Football Field

4:30 PM Jr. High Football at Football Field

5:30 PM Jr. High Volleyball at Football Field

 
August 7, 2018
 

Mission Trip Completed to Henderson Settlement

The Henderson Settlement Project (HSP) Mission Team from the Rockford United Methodist Church spent a week in July at Henderson Settlement in Frakes, Kentucky.  Henderson Settlement serves the people in the Bell County, Kentucky area.  This year, the HSP Mission Team was joined by three members of the St. John Lutheran Hopewell Church.  With the financial support of the two congregations, materials were purchased so that a storage shed was built and sided for a family.  The team also delivered to the Henderson Settlement Food Pantry food and personal hygiene items that were generously donated throughout the year or were purchased in nearby towns while at Henderson Settlement.   

Several members of the team worked throughout the week in the food pantry and the thrift store, which are both ministries of Henderson Settlement. 

Each day of work camp begins with morning devotions with the other 180 campers and ends with an evening program that includes learning about the missions of Henderson Settlement, a time of sharing and communion, and music entertainment by a local Appalachian band.

Members of the Team left to right: Dick Edgell, Dennis Hecht, Casey Nuttle, Warren Menchhofer, Keith Canary, Kara Rupp, Loren Shindeldecker, Barb Pedroza, Karla Butler, Pastor Chip Steffy. kneeling: Nathan Rupp, Jordan, Tina (missing: Janet Steffy)

Click on smaller thumbnail pictures to enlarge them.

 
August 4-6, 2018
 

$7 Adults and $4 Children.

 
August 1-3, 2018
 

The Singing Auctioneer®, Dane Bailey, is coming to Rockford United Methodist Church
Community Invited!

On August 12 at the 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship times, Dane will perform at Rockford United Methodist Church at 202 South Franklin St., Rockford, Ohio 45882

In 1969 Dane felt a call to the ministry.  In 1975 Dane started seminary at Grace Theological Seminary, Winona Lake, IN and that fall did his first concert.  He has been traveling, ministering, and entertaining at churches, conferences, conventions, fairs, festivals, campgrounds, restaurants and banquets, as well as on radio and television ever since.  He also traveled with a gospel quartet for approximately four years.   In 2006, Dane was honored with an invitation to sing at the “Pageant of Peace,” an annual event held at the National Christmas Tree on the ellipse near the Whitehouse in Washington, DC.  

In 2001, Dane was able to take another step in his music career by stepping out as a full time singer-recording artist.  He now travels throughout the United States doing over one hundred concerts and averaging about 13,000 miles a year.  He has fifteen recordings and 2 live concert DVD to his credit.  His music recordings are a mixture of music genre with most of them being Southern Gospel.  Believing that laughter lightens the heart, Dane released an all comedy project, “Laughin’ Time,” and with his traveling to our nation’s capitol for Christmas,   2006, released a project, “Live at Christmas.”   In 2008, He released a big band project “Coast To Coast,” and a variety project, “Just Singing’.”   In the fall of 2009, he released the new patriotic project, “I Pledge Allegiance,” in CD and DVD.   “You Ask For It” released in 2010, and his 2011 release, “WOW, ‘member this” and in 2013, “Everybody Ought To Know,” and in 2014 “Heaven-Home” are all old songs you won’t want to miss.  Then 2016 brought a completely different direction of gospel music with “Jazz and Grass.”

Dane is a “real for sure auctioneer” and a growing part of his travels includes auctioneering, entertaining, and emceeing for benefit functions.  He sells a lot of pies and cakes.  He is a real estate broker, and an instructor at the Reppert’s School of Auctioneering, Indianapolis, IN.  He was a partner in Martin and Bailey Auction Realty in Fort Wayne, IN.

For more information on Dane, go to www.SingingAuctioneer.com.

 
July 29-31, 2018

 

Meet the New Coach Night Planned in Rockford
by Sheila Baltzell 7-30-2018

A new Football coach has been hired for Parkway High School, and the community is going all out to introduce him.

Meet Our New Parkway High School Head Football Coach Rob “Dusty” Rutledge will be held on Monday, August 20, at 7:00 pm at the Rockford Eagles Fellowship Hall (South Door). It is sponsored by these Rockford organizations: Lions Club, Eagles, Sons of American Legion and Masonic Lodge. Refreshments of pizza, and home made ice cream will follow the meeting event.

For questions, call/text Randy Rumple at 419-790-5859 or email randy.rumple.rr@gmail.com

Dusty Rutledge Biography

Year in College Athletics: 29th

Dusty is the son of Bob and Kathy McGough Rutledge formerly of Rockford. From an early age, he was fascinated with football, says his mom and dad. “He spent entire weekends in front of the television watching games.” 

He played football from Parkway Junior High school on up until he graduated Parkway High School in 1986. From there Rob went on to play football at Fairmont State in Virginia. He was a three year letterman in college. He also coached for Fairmont.

Dusty went on to become a coach from 1994-1996 at Glenville State where he  was the defensive line coach and special teams coordinator under Rich Rodriguez for three seasons (1994-96). He assisted Rodriguez during the seasons when the Pioneers earned three WVIAC titles. West Virginia and then to Bloomington, Indiana University. It was here, that Dusty felt he had the greatest years of his career from 1997-2000.

From 2000-2007, Dusty headed back to West Virginia at the University of WVA as their video coordinator. He supervised 2 fulltime photographers and 2 college editors as they followed the team to 6 straight Gator Bowls and 1 Sugar Bowl.

From 2008-2010, Rob found his way to his childhood Mecca, University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. He worked for the coaching team of Rich Rodriguez, head coach, as the Director of External Affairs. Dusty’s job was to build relationships with ex-football players. Dusty mentioned that, by this time in his career, he felt he was the luckiest “kid” on the planet. All this time he had been able to work with the best football players around. He loved it! But his greatest heroes even now, are not the players, but his own late Grandpa Jake Rutledge, his father, Bob Rutledge and his Uncle Keith Rutledge. They all told him, “Go after your dreams!” And, Dusty did.

In 2009, Dusty met the love of his life, Jennifer King, and his marriage to her made him an instant dad to his beautiful and intelligent step-daughters, Maegan and Elizabeth.

When Coach Rich Rodriguez and the coaching team was leaving Michigan and heading to the University of Arizona. Dusty was not willing to uproot his new family, and so he declined an the offer to follow the team.

Fortunately for Dusty, Mike Barwis, the top-rated strength coach in the United States, who  was once at University of West Virginia knew Rob and hired him into the new Gym venture he was starting in Ypsilanti Michigan. Barwis Methods is the premier place to go if one is an athlete who needs rehabilitation or just wants to get stronger. 

In 2015 when his daughters graduated from college, Dusty moved with his family to Arizona to become the University of Arizona football analyst for the 2015 season, before becoming the Director of High School Relations, Camps and Clinics in 2016. 

In his position, Rutledge worked closely with day-to-day operational aspects of the program, including practice organization and the Rich Rodriguez Football Camps.

Dusty comes to Parkway from Arizona State. Welcome Home Dusty!

Parkway Printable 2018 Fall Sports Schedules:

Click on the link to find the schedule you want to print.

Parkway Cross Country Match Schedule

Parkway Golf Match Schedule

Parkway Varsity and JV Football Game Schedules

Parkway Varsity and JV Volleyball Game Schedules

Parkway Junior High School Schedules
for Football, Volleyball and Cross Country

 
July 26-28, 2018

 

Medicare 101 Course Coming to Rockford
Wednesday, August 8, 6:30 pm - Medicare 101 at the Rockford Carnegie Library, 162 S Main St, Rockford. This course teaches you the basics of Medicare and what options you have with your health insurance as you or a loved one retire. The Mercer County Council on Aging will walk you through eligibility, possible penalties and what to anticipate. If you are already on Medicare, they can address additional questions you may have, as well as potential cost savings options.  All are welcome for this FREE educational event.  

Parkway School Registration Days

Parkway Local Schools will be holding Registration Days on Tuesday, August 7 and Wednesday, August 8 from noon - 6:00 p.m. Only those students in K -12 who are new to the district need to register. Our registration process can now be completed online. After August 1, please call the appropriate office at 419-363-3045 for website information and to schedule a time to bring the necessary documents to the school to finalize the registration process on one of these two days.

Back to School Night at Parkway

Parkway Local Schools will be holding their annual Back to School Night on Tuesday, August 14 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. This evening serves as an open house for parents and students in Preschool - 12 to visit their classroom, meet their teachers and bring their supplies to school. There will be no Back to School packets mailed this year as we have converted to online forms. Instructions on completing these forms will be mailed the week of July 30, along with cafeteria information. Those students in grades K-4 who are new to the school district are asked to meet in the Elementary Gym at 6:00 p.m. to meet with Mr. Esselstein Elementary Principal. Mrs. Pam Smith, Cafeteria Supervisor,  will be available to add money to students' lunch accounts. That evening, bus drivers will also be available. The first day of school for Parkway Local Schools is Monday, August 20.

Concert In The Park in Van Wert

On Friday August 3rd, the Van Wert Area Community Concert Band will present their final park concert for the season in the band shell of Fountain Park in Van Wert, Ohio. The performance will begin at 7:00 p.m. and is free to the public.  Music to be featured will include selections from Disney’s “The Lion King”, songs of the 1960’s, Sousa’s “Washington Post”, Leroy Anderson’s “Syncopated Clock”, and original compositions by band members Scott Turner “Reverie” and Chip Steffey’s “Cypress Ridge”.

A food stand will be available prior to the concert provided by the District Eastern Star starting at 5:00PM.  Please join the band directed by Richard Sherrick and featuring members from, Van Wert, Elgin, Delphos, Convoy, Chat, Middle Point, Coldwater, New Bremen, Maria Stein and Rockford. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be moved to an announced location or cancelled. Please listen to the local radio station for this information. The band will also perform at the Van Wert Fair Music Pavilion September 1st at 4:00 P.M.

The band will feature a Scott Turner original composition titled “Reverie”.

2018 Golf for Kids’ Sake

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mercer, Auglaize, & Van Wert would like to extend a huge THANK YOU for your recent support with our Golf for Kids Sake event. Thanks to all the corporations that sponsored the event along with all the golfers that came out and supported youth mentoring. We were able to raise $6,000.00 to put towards the various youth mentoring programs that Big Brothers Big Sisters offers in Mercer, Auglaize, & Van Wert Counties.  The men’s winning team included Rick Schwieterman, Brent Lefeld, Paul Volbert and Aaron Wourms. The women’s winning team included Deb Kramer, Treva Fortkamp, Lynn Darby and Cindy Huelsman. The Co-Ed winning team included Justin Bruggeman, John Hewitt, Kathy Kuhn and Steve Kuhn. Mark your calendars for July 12, 2019 for the GFKS at the Mercer County Elks.

Big Brothers Big Sisters is able to offer mentors to over 300 children throughout Mercer, Auglaize, & Van Wert Counties. We currently need BIGS in our One-on-one Program and Lunch Club. This school year we are excited about starting a Lunch Club with Coldwater School and St. Marys City School. If you are interested in making a difference in the life of a child, please contact the agency at 419-584-2447 or office@bbbsma.com. Every child has a story that needs to be heard; maybe you are the one meant to hear it.

2018 Golf for Kids’ Sake Sponsors

Corporate Sponsor

Celina Eagles, Katterhenry Investment Group, LCS INC., Celina Moose, Reynolds & Reynolds

Birdie Sponsors

Thieman Tailgates

Event Sponsors

Emerson, St. Henry Tile, Minster Service Club, Post Printing, The Marsh Foundation, VFW 5713

Par Sponsors

Schwieterman Custom  Body Shop and Jane Clune.

Big Sponsors

Setex, Superior Credit Union, People’s Bank

Cart Sponsors

Paul and Sandy Albers, Cindy Manbeck, F.O.E. 691 Wapak Eagles, Jane Clune, Superior Credit Union, Kiwanis Club of Celina, Chris Noble, Peg Larkin, Schwieterman Custom Body Shop

Hole-in-One

Grand Lake Eye Care-Dr. Gerlach

Sacked Lunches

Derringer Company

Rib Fest in Van Wert at the Fairgounds Coming August 3 and 4, 2018

The 12th Annual Rib Fest in Van Wert will be August 3 & 4, 2018 .

Times are 5 PM to midnight on Friday and 11 AM to midnight on Saturday at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds. Music and Food!

 
July 25, 2018
 

Harley Davidson Street 500 Raffle to Benefit Two Mendon Organizations
Mendon-Union Fire Department & Mendon-Union Recreation Association has
teamed up to raffle off a 2018 Harley Davidson Street 500 to benefit
both organizations. $20 will get you a ticket into the drawing for
this motorcycle. Tickets can be purchased at Jim’s Harley Davidson – Mendon, Willshire Trade days (Aug 3-4) & the 127 Garage Sales
(Aug 2-5) at members’ personal booths between Van Wert and Celina. 

Ice Cream Social Approaches
Sunday, July 29, the United Methodist Women's Group of the Rockford United Methodist Church, will host their annual Ice Cream Social.

This event offers sandwiches, potato salad, 3-bean casserole and features homemade ice cream with pies and cakes for dessert.

Serving starts at 4:30 PM in the Social Room of the church located at 202 South Franklin Street in Rockford, directly behind the firehouse.

Amphicars Coming to Lake Festival

The Amphicars are coming to the Lake Festival and will parade into Grand Lake at 7:45 PM on Friday, July 27, 2018 at the Hot Water Hole on Lake Shore Drive in Celina. They hope to set a new Guinness World Record.

 
July 21-24, 2018
 

14th Annual Shanes Crossing 5K Run/Walk

by Steve Fisher
The 14th Annual Shanes Crossing 5K was held, Saturday morning July 7, 2018, with 166 runners competing.  The race is part of the Mercer Health Countywide 5-K Challenge and is sponsored by the Parkway Cross Country program.  The over-all winners were a pair of local cross country standouts, Parkway’s Aaron Bruns was the men’s winner in a time of 18:03, and Coldwater’s Courtney Bye was the women’s winner in a time of 20:50.  Complete race results can be found at:  http://www.mercerhealth5kchallenge.com

Other Parkway student athletes placing the top 3 in their age groups were Riley Samples 2nd in the Men’s 15-19, Rachel Barret 3rd in the women’s 15-19, and Cade Schoenleben 3rd in the men’s 14 and under.

The Parkway Cross Country Program would like to thank the following businesses and organizations for their donations and support of the Shane’s Crossing 5K and Parkway Athletic Boosters.

Click Here for Shanes Crossing Results in printable format.

Rockford Fire Department

Shane’s Park Board

Rockford Girl Scouts Troop

Barry's Market

Rockford Carryout

First Financial Bank

Subway – Rockford

TJ’s RoadDog

Dannon Yogurt

Mercer Health

Wabash Communications

Innergy Fitness

Independent Capital Management

Cooper Farms

Grand Lake Marathon

People’s Bank

Click on smaller thumbnails below to enlarge.

Railroad Crossing to Close for Work
RJ Corman will be closing down Staeger Road in Mercer County between SR 29 and SR 703 on July 25th – July 28th. 

The railroad will be doing a signal upgrade as well as installing a new panel in the crossing.

The detour will be Staeger to 703 to Riley Road to SR 29 back to Staeger Rd.

Ice Cream Social Approaches
Sunday, July 29, the United Methodist Women's Group of the Rockford United Methodist Church, will host their annual Ice Cream Social.

This event offers sandwiches, potato salad, 3-bean casserole and features homemade ice cream with pies and cakes for dessert.

Serving starts at 4:30 PM in the Social Room of the church located at 202 South Franklin Street in Rockford, directly behind the firehouse.

Parkway Class of 1978 Celebrates Reunion

First row, sitting: Sheryl (Walls) Louth, Misty (Anderson) Bolenbaugh, 
Crista (Sutton) Heindel and Vicki (Sapp) Smith.

Second row, sitting: Robin Protsman, Ruth (Luginbill) Whitten, Naomi 
Lehman (Miss Sipe), Mr. Shively and Brenda (Brigner) Weldy.

Third row: Deb (Stetler) Lowry, Barb (Rhoades) Bowen, Doris (Highley) 
Shively, Shari (Luginbill) Koontz, Patsy (McCullough) Knight and Paula 
(Andrews) Linn.

Fourth row: Mr. Thomas Knapke, Dave Schroyer, Pam (Lowry) Demeny, Ed 
Burtch, Herb Schumm, Craig Pontsler, Jack Pontius and Doug Bader.


Our reunion was held on Saturday July 21st at Hillside Bed and 
Breakfast. Food was catered by Rockford Carry Out.

Photo and info by Paula (Andrews) Linn.

VANTAGE ANNOUNCES ORIENTATION MEETINGS AND SCHEDULE PICKUP DATES

It’s time to get ready for the new school year @ Vantage! There will be two orientation meetings to welcome new students and their parents to the school.  The first orientation meeting will be held on MONDAY, AUGUST 13 at 7:00 p.m. for students who are enrolled in Ag & Industrial Power Tech, Auto Body, Auto Technology, Construction Equipment Technology, Carpentry, Electricity, Industrial Mechanics, Precision Machining, and Welding. 

The second orientation meeting is set for TUESDAY, AUGUST 14 at 7:00 p.m. for students in the following Business and Human Services programs: Network Systems, Cosmetology, Criminal Justice, Culinary Arts, Interactive Media, Early Childhood Education, Health Technology, and Medical Office Management.

Both meetings will be held in the Commons Area at Vantage.  The evening will include a brief general session as well as an opportunity for students and their parents to re-acquaint themselves with the Vantage building, talk to the teachers, complete electronic forms, pay program fees, put money on lunch accounts, pick up class schedules, and get measured for uniforms. Payments can be made with cash, check, or http://www.payschoolscentral.com. ALL STUDENTS NEW TO VANTAGE AND THEIR PARENTS SHOULD ATTEND THIS MEETING.  

Students who attended Vantage last year can pick up their schedule and pay program fees from 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, August 13 and 14.  Parents will receive a letter in the mail with instructions on how to fill out the required “beginning of the year” forms using the Oneview parent portal. 

Returning students who are unable to pick up their schedule on the above dates should call Vantage Student Services at 419-238-5411 or 1-800-686-3944 ext. 2126 to make arrangements to get your schedule before school starts.

The first day of school for new students is Monday, August 20, starting at
8:23 a.m. The first day of school for returning students is Tuesday, August 21.  The school day runs until 2:40 p.m.

If you have any additional questions, please call Vantage Student Services at the number above for more information.

Parkway School Board Agenda by Sally Cox for July 24, 2018

 
July 17-20, 2018
 

Tragic Death of Former Area Resident Reported

According to news reports form the Columbus, Ohio area, the death of Christopher Osborn, 50, a Dublin area doctor whose wife found him inside their home Wednesday morning, July 18, 2018 is being ruled a homicide.

Reports say Christopher Osborn was found dead and that Dublin police were questioning a person of interest.

Osborn’s primary private office is in Dublin, but he is affiliated with numerous area hospitals, including Mary Rutan Hospital in Bellefontaine, where he worked part time in the emergency department.

Further details about the cause of death have not been released.

Osborn’s father-in-law called authorities to report the death about 7:30 a.m. Wednesday after receiving a call from his daughter and Osborn’s wife, Holli.

Christopher Osborn is the son of Pamela Osborn of Van Wert County and the late Duane Osborn. He grew up in Willshire, Ohio. He was a graduate of Parkway High School and still has many friends and family in the area.

Mercer County Sheriff’s Office Advisory on July 18, 2018 at 8 PM

Please use caution while driving in the area of Jordan & Manley Rds. There are 4 loose steer in a corn field in that area.

Henkle Insurance Updates Their Office and Brand

Henkle Insurance, celebrating three generations in the family business, have recently updated their office décor inside and out.

Todd, second generation, began the process in January 2018 with Twyla Hayes from Brand-It Marketing, Rockford, designing a new brand logo for the agency.

While the new brand was in process, the Henkles, Todd, Jordan and Joel worked on the interior remodeling beginning in Mid-March. They painted all the walls, replaced the flooring by Enyart Flooring in Coldwater, and rearranged office furniture. Henkle Insurance had originally moved to this location in 1986 (formerly Pontius Hardware) when Dan Henkle, first generation, moved the business from across town. The flooring and wallpaper on the walls was original from 1986. Dan remembers the renovation process at the time – a complete remodel. There was an old rope pull elevator in the back of the building. He sold it to Judge Ingraham in Celina for $50.

Added to the indoor office décor was an acrylic sign made by Forty Nine Degrees of Coldwater featuring their new logo. 

The outside of the office had a facelift as well, with a new outdoor sign by Forty Nine Degrees as well as freshly painted shutters and door.

Henkle Insurance invites you to stop in and look around!

Our Old Bookcase, July 12, 2018.  Wine Makers and Tasters
By  Joyce L. Alig, President, Mercer County Historical Society

Photo caption:   Wine Goblets are works of art, collected by art connoisseurs.  Who are the local Wine Makers and the Wine Tasters, who are also connoisseurs?

One thousand, three hundred and eighty seven gallons of wine were recorded in 1887 for the “1888 Ohio State Report.”  In 1880, the Mercer County Census recorded 21,808 for the Population of Mercer County.

I was reading about Mercer County’s agricultural history in the 1896 “Historical Collections of Ohio,” by Henry Howe, because the New Idea Historic Preservation Committee of the Mercer County Historical Society is doing research for their fourth book in the Series about New Idea Company’s History of Hay Tools.  How would you describe that agricultural produce has changed over the last Century?

Here are the 1887 Agricultural Statistics Howe reported in 1887.  The acres cultivated were 140,633; in pasture, 12,023; woodland, 73,384; lying waste, 4,154; produced in wheat, 364,235 bushels; rye, 2,733; Buckwheat, 667; oats, 632,537; barley, 12,881; corn, 1,287,610; meadow hay, 15,343 tons; clover hay, 8,334; flaxseed, 726 bushels; potatoes, 51,636; and tobacco, 1,000 lbs..

Howe also reported butter, 415,750 lbs.; cheese, 150 lbs., sorghum, 14,110 gallons; Maple syrup, 121; honey, 4,806 lbs.; eggs, 634,737 dozen; grapes, 8,300 lbs.; wine, 1,387 gallons; sweet potatoes, 42 bushels; apples, 14,558; peaches, 20; pears, 145.  Howe reported 29,184 lbs. of wool and milch cows owned, 6,931.  How many sheep did it take to produce 29,184 pounds of wool?  If there were nearly 7000 cows, how many gallons of milk and cream were produced?

Look at the agricultural products which are no longer available.  When I read that there were 1,387 gallons of wine produced, I wondered if the wine was used by families at home or parties.  How many kinds of wine were made?   Did the local wine makers market their wine and sell it?  Someone used those 8,300 pounds of grapes; maybe the grapes were used for making grape jelly rather than grape wine?

Are Mercer County’s local citizens taking up a hobby or a business in making wine?  The few wine makers I know do take their work seriously.  They converse about their wine production each season and discuss the weather, the soil, the grapes, the sunlight, the wine barrels, their production, their wine cellars, etc.  A “Connoisseur” is a person who has expert knowledge and keen discrimination in some field, especially in the fine arts or in matters of taste.  The local wine makers are connoisseurs of their craft.  The local wine tasters are equally connoisseurs as they address the various wines each season. 

“At a wine tasting staged by WQED on November 22, 1986 in San Francisco, California, 4000 wine tasters consumers 9,360 bottles of wine,” wrote the Editor Mark C. Young, of the “Guinness Book of World Records,” published by Guinness Media, Inc., in 1997.  Note that the Editor was more interested in the number of bottles of wine, than he was interested in the quality of the various wines or the consumers of the wine.  Area wine makers are more devoted to quality of their wines, rather than the quantity of gallons of wine they produce.

Help preserve the history of wine making in Mercer County, and write me about your stories of wine making or wine tasting or wine served at special occasions.  Is anyone preserving the history of this agricultural product in Mercer County?  Does the Ohio State University Extension Office hold classes about the Agricultural Study of Wine Making, and keep records of Mercer County’s Wine Production, as it did in 1887, for the “2017 Ohio State Report?”   If so, perhaps, I can acquire a copy of the 2017 Report about Wine Making in Mercer County, for the Archival Collections of the Mercer County Historical Society?

[Mercer County Historical Society President Joyce Alig, may be contacted at 3054 Burk-St. Henry Road, Saint Henry, OH 45883,  or histalig@bright.net or 419-678-2614]

County Courthouse Smoking Ban

Recently the Van Wert County Commissioners enacted a resolution to prohibit smoking within 20 feet of the County Courthouse front door entrance. This resolution supports the Ohio Revised Code 3794 which defines smoking regulations, posting of required signage, reporting of violations and the duties of the department of health. In summary, this law states that administrators of public spaces have the duty to ensure that tobacco smoke does not enter any area through entrances or other means into a space where smoking is prohibited (ORC 3794.02 B) which includes the county courthouse as a place of employment (ORC 3794.02 A).  

In addition to the Ohio Revised Code, the promotion of nonsmoking environments and tobacco cessation is a goal of the Healthy People 2020 initiative from the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. One goal of the Healthy People 2020 initiative is to reduce illness, disability, and deaths related to the use of tobacco products and exposure to second hand smoke.   Research has proven the lengthy list of health issues and the financial burden these diseases have on individuals as well as the health care industry. 

The 2015 Van Wert County Community Health Needs Assessment identified 14% of Van Wert County residents as smokers, 5% of youth are smokers and 61% of the youth reported they were exposed to second hand smoke.  The CDC reported lung cancer as the leading cause of cancer deaths in Van Wert County (2009-2013) and Chronic Respiratory Disease was the 3rd leading cause of death in Van Wert County in 2013.  The Healthy People 2020 initiative’s goal is to reduce these figures partly through the establishment of policies that help to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke.    

“The mission of the Van Wert County General Health District is to promote and protect the health and well-being of the community.” explains Paul A. Kalogerou, M.D., Medical Director/Health Commissioner.  “We are pleased to support city, county, and state decisions that promote a healthy lifestyle and environment.  This resolution helps to create a healthy working atmosphere for county employees and a healthier environment for courthouse visitors.”   

Van Wert County General Health District is committed to helping those who wish to quit smoking find the help they need.  If you or a loved one currently smoke and would like more information about tobacco cessation please call Van Wert County Health Department at 419-238-0808 extension 112.

Raffle to benefit Carey, Bill & Benny Scholarship - Reminder

By Melissa Burtch

The Carey, Bill, & Benny Scholarship was established in 1970 by a group of Parkway residents to honor the memories of Carey Fosnaugh, Parkway Class of 1968, William Miller, Parkway Class of 1965, and  Benny Sapp, Parkway Class of 1967.  These men’s lives were cut short serving their country in Vietnam.  Parkway has had many graduates who have put their lives on the line to serve in the military and by continuing to award the Carey, Bill & Benny Scholarship, all veterans are honored for their service and sacrifice.  With the help of the Rockford American Legion, the Willshire American Legion, and the Willshire Sons of the Legion and other community support this scholarship has been able to continue for 48 years and has awarded thousands of dollars to Parkway graduates.  The stained glass piece of art was handcrafted by Bob Blackwell, an Army and Vietnam veteran, who served with Carey Fosnaugh.  The scholarship is administered by the Leota Braun Charitable Foundation.  100% of raffle proceeds will benefit the Carey, Bill & Benny Scholarship.  Raffle tickets will be sold at both Memorial Day parades in Rockford and Willshire.  Tickets will also be available at The Peoples Bank Rockford branch and Burtch Seed Company.

Pictured with the stained glass art pieces is Mackenzie Sipe, the 2018 Carey, Bill & Benny Scholarship recipient. Photo shared by Nikki Fox

Crop Damage in Mercer County Investigated

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey released an aerial photo today taken of crop damage that occurred July 15th, 2018 in the area of Brown and Meyer road(s) outside Celina. The damage occurred when an intoxicated motorist went off the roadway through several fields. The aerial photo was made possible by an individual who donated the drone to the Sheriff’s Office for assisting deputies who would otherwise be unable to scope out the entire path of destruction done.  Sheriff Grey stated “We in Mercer County are fortunate to have caring citizens who help us gain the tools we use and are also fortunate that this community supports local law enforcement”.  The drone is also used for accident reconstruction and in the event of a missing person, as well as a variety of other things. The Sheriff’s office greatly appreciates the community support.

by Gery Thobe
Chief Deputy Sheriff

Lambert Days Coming in July
The Ohio City Park Board has finalized their “Calendar of Events” for the 2018 Lambert Days. Lambert Days is always the third “Full” weekend in July. The Ohio City Community Building will be serving dinners Starting at 4:00 on Friday and Saturday and 11:00 on Sunday, including steak on Friday, pulled pork on Saturday, and chicken on Sunday. There will also be a community wide garage sale.

Friday starts off at 5:00 with a flag raising presented by Harvey Lewis Post 346, followed by opening of kids’ inflatables and games. Music will be provided by “Mike Bouillon” at 6:00, Texas Hold em’ at 7:00 and Monte Carlo Nights begins at 8:00. “Colt & Crew” will play under the tent at 8:00 and the County’s biggest and best firework display stars at 10:15.

Saturday Men’s slow-pitch softball starts at 8:00 and new this year is breakfast at the front concession stand cooked by the EPIC youth group of Ohio City Church of God. Co-Ed volleyball starts at 9:00. At 11:00 the kids’ inflatable and games begin, along with face painting, a petting zoo, and horse drawn cart rides. Cornhole and 3x3 basketball registration starts at noon with the tournaments starting at 1:00. Music will be provided by “Jeff Unterbrink” at 4:00 and BINGO at 5:00. “Cadillac Ranch” will finish the night out starting at 8:00.

Sunday softball continues at 9:00. Car show registration starts at 10 with the car show to start at noon. The kids’ inflatable and games will start back up at noon. The 51st “Lambert Days” parade will begin at 3:00 and will end back at Firemans Park. Activities will continue after the parade at the park.

For more information, contact info, or updates, please visit our website: www.lambertdays.com or follow us on Facebook.

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

 
July 14-16, 2018
 

FALL SPORTS REGISTRATION - Flag Football & Soccer

The Rockford Recreation Association is currently accepting registration forms for the 2018 fall sports season. Registration and medical forms can be printed from www.rockfordrec.com or picked up at the Rockford Village Office or local libraries in Rockford, Willshire, and Mendon. Registration deadline for all fall programs is August 9th.

The 2018 Fall Soccer League is open to boys and girls entering grades K-6. Games will be played on Sunday afternoons at Shanes Park through the months of September and October. The registration fee is $25.00 per child and each participant will receive a team jersey. Each player is required to provide their own shin guards.

The 2018 Fall Flag Football League is open to boys and girls entering grades 1-6. Flag football games will be played on Monday evenings at Shanes park through the months of September and October. The registration fee is $25.00 per child and each participant will receive a team jersey and a mouthpiece. Mouthpieces are required to participate in all practices and games.

Completed registration forms, medical forms, and registration fees can be dropped off at the Rockford Village Office or mailed to Rockford Rec. - PO Box 16 - Rockford, OH 45882.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS AUGUST 9TH!!

Lake Campus Efforts to Address Water Quality Recognized in State-Wide Press Conference
Visionary research referenced numerous times in July 11 address

CELINA, OH - Wright State University – Lake Campus and their ongoing efforts to study the water quality of Grand Lake St. Marys have set a precedence being modeled in actions to further reduce algal bloom issues in other bodies of water across the state of Ohio, including Lake Erie.

On July 11, Ohio Governor John Kasich signed an Executive Order to initiate action in eight watersheds in the western basin of Lake Erie, areas which will be considered for designations as “Watersheds in Distress.” In introducing this legislation, Governor Kasich referenced the positive progress resulting from the collaborative efforts between agriculture and water quality groups surrounding Grand Lake St. Marys.

At the same press conference, Director of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Jim Zehringer specifically referenced the work being done at Lake Campus. “In a recent study, Dr. Stephen Jacquemin, from Wright State University-Lake Campus, found that there has been a significant reduction in the amount of phosphorus loading occurring at Grand Lake St. Mary since the ‘Watershed in Distress’ was implemented in 2011,” stated Zehringer.

Dr. Jay Albayyari, Lake Campus Dean & Chief Administrative Officer, applauds the research directed by Dr. Jacquemin and involving Lake Campus students in continued response to community concerns about water quality, now being recognized locally, state-wide and nationally. “The vision I have at the Lake Campus to merge water quality and agriculture studies with the research being done to improve Grand Lake St. Marys is being realized,” adds Albayyari.

Just this past February, the Lake Campus opened the doors to its Agriculture and Water Quality Education Center, a state-of-the-art facility which houses labs and classrooms dedicated to these interrelated subjects. More than 65 students continue to study in these areas at Lake Campus.

For more information regarding the ongoing agriculture and water quality research, and the related undergraduate programs of study, please contact Wright State University – Lake Campus at discoverlakecampus@wright.edu or 419-586-0300.

Niswonger Season Starts
The Niswonger Performing Arts Center has released a season that  will ignite your life with star powered entertainment. Select Series Sales begin on Thursday, July 12 at NOON. Ticket buyers can bundle three or more events, receive a discount of 10-15% and get tickets in advance. Bundling three to five events receives a 10% discount off the ticket price. Selecting six or more events receives a 15% discount. The Grand Series of 22 events is available now for a 20% discount. Individual event tickets release for sale approximately 60-90 days prior to the event date. Purchasing in bundles provides advanced purchase before the release date. Advanced purchasing keeps patrons from  being sold out from a desired show. Customized Select Series are on sale online at NPACVW.ORG or through the Box Office (in person or by phone) 419-238-6722.

Bike Path Suspect Arrested
On July 10, 2018 a tip was received indicating a suspect who was possibly the male on the bike path deputies were searching for.  Detectives followed up this tip which lead to the arrest of a 23 year old Celina, Ohio male.  Arrested was Dustin Ray Green who was charged with public indecency and littering (both misdemeanors).   Green is currently being held In the Mercer County Adult Detention Center.  Sheriff Grey wants to remind citizens that this is a good example of the community and law enforcement working together to reach a resolution.

On June 30, 2018, between 11:30 AM and 11:55AM, a report was made to the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office of a male acting suspicious near the bike path that runs between St Anthony Road and Fleetfoot Road, in Butler Township.  The suspicious male was reported being nude walking the area of the bike path.  Deputies responded to the area, but the male was not located. The male was described as a white male between 20 to 30 years old, clean shaven, with sandy brown hair, reported as being medium build.

Van Wert First Presbyterian Bible School Announced
The First Presbyterian Church of Van Wert cordially invites you to Vacation Bible School 2018!

Join us Monday, July 16th through Thursday, July 19 from 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm for BEACH TREK VBS!

Meals will be provided each night starting at 5:30 with Bible story time, cool crafts, fun games & exciting music to follow!

On Sunday, July 22nd will be the VBS children's program during our 10:00 AM service followed by a FUN, BEACH THEMED family picnic with grilled hamburgers, hot dogs, sausage & all the fixin's!

AGES: Pre-school/Age 4 through 6th Grade

Please call the church office at 419-238-3670 to pre-register or just show up at 5:15 with your children on Monday, July 16th before the meal to fill out the necessary forms.  ALL ARE WELCOME IN THE HOUSE OF THE LORD!

 
July 12-13, 2018
 

CHIP & SEAL SEASON

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart is announcing that crews have just started the yearly chip and seal work on various rural local roads in Mercer County.

We would like to request that yard mowing not be blown onto the county and township roads.  Doing so creates additional prep work to get the roads ready for chip and seal and slows the whole operation down.

Blowing excess grass onto the roadway also makes a hazard for motorists and especially motorcycle riders that most of us don’t think about related to loss of traction.  This becomes even more dangerous with rain on the roadway.  Stopping distances increase and friction between the tires and pavement decrease.  This scenario has caused tragic accidents and has opened up unknowing property owners to lawsuits.  We respectfully request that private mowers are turned around for a couple of passes to keep our roads and traveling public safe.

County and township roads with “Loose Stone” or “Loose Gravel” signs posted are roads that are scheduled to be chip and sealed this season.  These roads will have temporary closures during the chip and seal process.  We thank you for your patience in helping to keep the traveling public and our workers safe.

Stateline Writers Club Invites Members

The Stateline Writers Club is scheduled to meet at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 21, at the Celina public library.  

Writers are asked to compose a piece based on a phrase they grew up hearing frequently.

The public is welcome to attend.

 
July 4-11, 2018
 

Mike Bruns Remodels Building

Thank you to Mike Bruns for the building improvement on Market St. Formally this building was a storage area for the Rockford Press, the Rockford Telephone Company and the American Legion Hall sometime after WWl. By Lisa Kuhn

Photo credit - Brad Now

Lake Area Arts Group to Hear Twyla Hays and Jill Parris

The next Lake Area Arts Group (LAAG) meeting will be held on
WEDNESDAY - July 11th at 6 pm.  Location will be the Celina Library.
Note the day of week change !   

Rockford Artists Jill Parris and  Twyla Hays will be bringing 
some of their creations to display.

More artist opportunities coming in the near future !  
Public welcome !

Celina Block Party Planned
A Taste of Celina Block Party and Car Show is scheduled for Friday, July 13th in downtown Celina.  The festivities begin at the corner of Main and Market Streets and go south to Warren Street.   From 5 -10pm, you will be able to taste the unique specialties of 16 different Celina restaurants and caterers.  Each restaurant will serve 3 or 4 different specialties.  Each food item will take between 1 and 4 tickets.  Presale tickets are on sale at the Celina Mercer County Chamber office located at 121 East Logan Street in Celina.  Tickets will also be on sale that evening at the Chamber Ticket Tent.  At the Chamber office, the first 2000 tickets will be sold at a buy 20 tickets and get 1 ticket free promotion. 

Plenty of tables and chairs will be set up in the street.  There will also be live entertainment provided by Will Freed and Friends. Several local establishments will be open after the event closes with special entertainment.  After eating, feel free to browse through the unique specialty shops.  Again this year at the south end of Main Street is the cruise in car show.

For more information, call the Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce

at 419-586-2219.   Be sure to visit the Celina Mercer Chamber Facebook Page for  Taste of Celina menus and contests to win tickets!

Shane’s Crossing 5K

The 14th annual Shane’s Crossing 5K run/walk will be Saturday, July 7, 2018 at 8:30 in Rockford, Ohio starting at Shane’s Park.

Race day registration starts at 7:30A.M.  is $25.00 with shirt or $15.00 without shirt.

The run is part of the Mercer County 5K Challenge series with the Parkway Athletic Boosters benefiting   from the event.  Make checks payable to Parkway Athletic Boosters and mail entries to: Steve Fisher, 3953 Purdy Rd. Rockford, Ohio 45882.

The flat beautiful course through town and in the country starts and finishes at Shanes Park.  Awards and door prizes are given at the finish.

For more information call 419-305-2080 or Email sfisher@jtdmh.org.  Results available online at: www.mercerhealth5kchallenge.com.

Those who complete all eight  challenge races will earn challenge apparel.  Those who complete six races will receive a T-shirt.  Keep running!

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

 
July 3, 2018
 

Annual Music Recital Entertains Family and Friends of Young Students

On Sunday, July 1 about 70 people enjoyed the music of the piano students of Roberta LePage and the guest pianist Yvonne Farmer.  These students are:  (back row):  Brooke Stephenson, Gwyneth Ridenour, Rylan Lyons, Oliver Haines, and Hutch Ridenour.  (front row): Hadley Stover, Jaymin Peel, Maggie Rich and Roberta LePage.  

Parkway Class of 1978 Plans Reunion
The Parkway High School Class of 1978 will have their 40th reunion on 
Saturday July 21st from 5-9 p.m.  The reunion will be held at Hillside 
Bed and Breakfast, located at 2751 Van Wert-Mercer County Line Road, 
Willshire. Food will be catered by the Rockford Carry Out

Information about the reunion was mailed to classmates and teachers at 
the end of April. If your response hasn't been turned in yet, please do 
so as soon as possible.

If you have any questions about the reunion, you may contact Robin at 
robinsnest6078@gmail.com or Paula at 88keys@bright.net.

John George Schumm Family Reunion Planned
Please make plans now to attend the John George Schumm Family Reunion, to be held Sunday, August 5, with a basket carry-in dinner at 12:30 pm followed by entertainment.  Descendants of the John George Schumm family are encouraged to attend and enjoy the day meeting relatives, listening to the "Retros" provide musical entertainment, hear Mike "Spank" Schumm talk about the early family history, and just enjoy a beautiful day together.  The reunion will be held on the church grounds of Zion Lutheran Church (Schumm), which is located east of Willshire, Ohio.

The Schumm family bible, printed in 1692, is on display in the church parish hall and a "show and tell" table will display pictures and other mementos for reunion guests. Soft ice cream and beverages will be available as well as other fun activities.

If you haven't yet checked out our Facebook page, please go to JOHN GEORGE SCHUMM FAMILY and see pictures from past reunions.  Please plan now to attend the reunion and enjoy a day of fun!

 
July 1-2, 2018
 

Shanes Crossing Historical Society Receives Two Donations

Thank you to Bruce & Linda Boley of Celina for donating a spinning wheel to the
Shanes Crossing Historical Society.   The spinning wheel came from the 
Ruby Dudgeon Log House Museum that was located South of Willshire off of State Route 49.  

The 1960 newspaper article was donated by Steve Thompson.

The Village of Rockford will be holding 1 Council meeting for the month of July.  The meeting will be held on Tuesday - July 10th at 7:30 pm at the Village Hall.

Van Wert Chamber to Hold Golf Scramble

Join us! 18-Hole Best Ball Scramble– Register HERE . Registration Deadline July 13.

When: Wednesday, July 18, 2018 (Rain date: July 25)

Where: Hickory Sticks Golf Club, 12083 St. Rt. 127, Van Wert, OH

Time: 10:00 am Registration & Lunch  11:00 am Shotgun Start

Cost: $320 Per 4-Player Team (Chamber member) $400 Per 4-Player Team (non-member)

Includes: golfer gift bag, greens fees, cart, range balls, box lunch & burger/brats Awards Dinner after play, drink ticket, longest drive & closest to the pin contests.

Lambert Days Coming in July
The Ohio City Park Board has finalized their “Calendar of Events” for the 2018 Lambert Days. Lambert Days is always the third “Full” weekend in July. The Ohio City Community Building will be serving dinners Starting at 4:00 on Friday and Saturday and 11:00 on Sunday, including steak on Friday, pulled pork on Saturday, and chicken on Sunday. There will also be a community wide garage sale.

Friday starts off at 5:00 with a flag raising presented by Harvey Lewis Post 346, followed by opening of kids’ inflatables and games. Music will be provided by “Mike Bouillon” at 6:00, Texas Hold em’ at 7:00 and Monte Carlo Nights begins at 8:00. “Colt & Crew” will play under the tent at 8:00 and the County’s biggest and best firework display stars at 10:15.

Saturday Men’s slow-pitch softball starts at 8:00 and new this year is breakfast at the front concession stand cooked by the EPIC youth group of Ohio City Church of God. Co-Ed volleyball starts at 9:00. At 11:00 the kids’ inflatable and games begin, along with face painting, a petting zoo, and horse drawn cart rides. Cornhole and 3x3 basketball registration starts at noon with the tournaments starting at 1:00. Music will be provided by “Jeff Unterbrink” at 4:00 and BINGO at 5:00. “Cadillac Ranch” will finish the night out starting at 8:00.

Sunday softball continues at 9:00. Car show registration starts at 10 with the car show to start at noon. The kids’ inflatable and games will start back up at noon. The 51st “Lambert Days” parade will begin at 3:00 and will end back at Firemans Park. Activities will continue after the parade at the park.

For more information, contact info, or updates, please visit our website: www.lambertdays.com or follow us on Facebook.

Ron and Sheryl Frahm of Rockford Recently Celebrated Their 50 Wedding Anniversary

 
June 25-30, 2018
 

In 2018, the Old Fashioned Farmers will host the 42nd Annual Van Wert County Old Fashioned Farmers Days, from June 28, through July 1, 2108, at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds, U.S. Rt. 127 South, at Van Wert.  The feature tractors are Case Tractors, Equipment, and Hit & Miss Engines.  All Brands are welcome.  Attractions include Antique Tractors & Machinery, Parts Swap & Sell Area, Quilt & Needle Art Show, Threshing, Gas Engines, Sawmill, Jr. and Powder Puff Pull, Car Show, Antique Tractor Pull, Trading Post, Crafts & Flea Market, Garden Tractor Display, Truck Display, Food Vendors, Animal Land, Free Barrel Rides, Kids & Adult Pedal Tractor Pull, Barney Fife Look A-like, Tractor Games, Chain Saw Sculpturing, Tug-A-Truck.  Music is supported in part by a grant from the Van Wert County Foundation.  Camping is available for a small fee, and Golf Carts are for rent!  Entry is a 3 day Pass at $7.00 person, or $3 per day.  Children under 12 are free.  Visit the Website.  http://www.oldfashionedfarmersdays.com See the ad above!

OUR OLD BOOK CASE

By  Joyce L. Alig, President, Mercer County Historical Society, Inc.

Caption:  The Belle City Thresher belonged to Paul Clay and Merlin Winer who were leaders in implementing the Old Fashioned Farmers Association.  This photo was taken when the Old Fashioned Farmers Members held the Antique Tractor Exhibit at the Mercer County Historical Museum during their 27 years of hosting this Exhibit and preceding the Celina Lake Festival Parade.  This Belle City Thresher will be on exhibit at the Old Fashioned Farmers Days, June 28 thru July 1, 2018, at the Van Wert County Fairground. 

The first show of the Old Fashioned Farmers was held in 1976 on the Clay farm north of Rockford.  The show consisted of some of Paul Clay’s and Merlin Winer’s old equipment being pulled out along the lane, and some wheat being threshed.  Approximately 20 people were then treated to a Thresherman’s Dinner, prepared by Mrs. Clay and Mrs. Winer.  The following year, the Old Farmers’ Day show was held at the Clay Farm with five exhibitors present and 20 pieces of equipment.

That same year in 1977, as President of the Mercer County Historical Society, I invited the Old Fashioned Farmers to host an Antique Tractor Exhibit, at the Founders’ Square City Parking Lot, adjacent to the Mercer County Historical Museum, as a part of the Celina Lake Festival.  For twenty-seven years, 1977-2003, this successful Exhibit was held at the Mercer County Historical Museum, until I retired in 2004. 

As for the Old Fashioned Farmers, in 1978, the Rockford Lions Club helped by sponsoring their show, and the show grew with more farm equipment exhibits, a food stand and entertainment was added.  This show continued, until this group formed “The Old Fashioned Farmers Association,” with 24 Member Families.  The show grew with new members, more displays, Flea markets, and antique Trucks.  By 1985, the Club served as host for the 1985 Ohio State Plowing Association competition, with their Show. 

By 1987, since the annual exhibit was growing, the Club made the difficult decision to move to the Van Wert County Fairgrounds.  The move was a success, as the 1986 exhibit hosted 37 exhibitors and grew to 124 exhibitors in 1987.  By 1994, the Club had grown to about 220 Members and the Show was held for three days of work, fun, and fellowship.  From the first show in 1976 of ten pieces of equipment to over 750 pieces of equipment n 1994, the show at Van Wert has been a great success.  This History of the Old Fashioned Farmers Association is quoted from the early program booklets prepared for the Old Fashioned Farmers’ Days held at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds.  This show has grown every year.

In 2018, the Old Fashioned Farmers will host the 42nd Annual Van Wert County Old Fashioned Farmers Days, from June 28, through July 1, 2108, at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds, U.S. Rt. 127 South, at Van Wert.  The feature tractors are Case Tractors, Equipment, and Hit & Miss Engines.  All Brands are welcome.  Attractions include Antique Tractors & Machinery, Parts Swap & Sell Area, Quilt & Needle Art Show, Threshing, Gas Engines, Sawmill, Jr. and Powder Puff Pull, Car Show, Antique Tractor Pull, Trading Post, Crafts & Flea Market, Garden Tractor Display, Truck Display, Food Vendors, Animal Land, Free Barrel Rides, Kids & Adult Pedal Tractor Pull, Barney Fife Look A-like, Tractor Games, Chain Saw Sculpturing, Tug-A-Truck.  Music is supported in part by a grant from the Van Wert County Foundation.  Camping is available for a small fee, and Golf Carts are for rent!  Entry is a 3 day Pass at $7.00 person, or $3 per day.  Children under 12 are free.  Visit the Website.  http://www.oldfashionedfarmersdays.com

As for this history of the Belle City Threshing Machine, I am confused.  One history book stated, “In 1882, the David Lawton Co. merged with the Racine Brake Co. to become the Belle City Manufacturing Company.”  Another history book stated, “In 1862, Belle City was completely controlled by the administration within J.I. Case Co., and they began building threshers.  The Clay and Winer Belle City Thresher will be on exhibit at the Van Wert County Old Fashioned Farmers Days.”  Go see this Thresher!

 
June 22-24, 2018
 

RADC Members to Meet
The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, June 26th at 7 pm in the Rockford Library basement.

Stained Glass Window Rescued and Restored
The Shanes Crossing Historical Society would like to give a BIG thank you to Steve Thompson for rescuing and restoring a stain glass window from the Grace United Methodist Church.  

The church was built in 1924 at a cost of approximately $27,000.  

The church was torn down in 2005.    

Steve donated the window, his time and labor to install the window at the Rockford Village Hall and Museum.  

A beauty of Rockford past being put to use for us to see and admire today.

*All donations are greatly appreciated in order to preserve Rockford history.

Bicentennial Barn Quilts for Sale
Barn Quilts are ready for purchase at the Rockford Village Hall. Stop in and view the wooden quilt squares that are for sale. We are also taking orders for personalized quilts in 2 sizes 24x24 or 4' x 4'.

Call Barb at 419-363-2720 or Deb 419-363-3575 to place your order. 

Help Rockford celebrate the bicentennial coming up in 2020 by displaying part of local heritage.

Library Announces Special Meeting
The Rockford Library Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting on Monday, June 25, 2018 at 9 a.m. in the library basement meeting room.

 
June 20-21, 2018
 

14th Annual Shane’s Crossing 5K Run/Walk

14th Annual Shane’s Crossing 5K run/walk starts at 8:30am on Saturday July 7, 2018.  The race starts and ends at Shane’s Park, 705 W. Front Street, Rockford, Ohio, and is part of the Mercer Health 5K Challenge countywide running series.

Race day registration and check in is 7:30-8:30 A.M. at the shelter house at Shane’s Park, with a $15.00 race only registration fee. A limited quantity of shirts will be for sale on race day.

There will also be a ½ Mile Fun Run for ages 12 & Under begging at 8:00am.  For more information on this contact Jennifer Barrett at 419-605-7305.

For more information or a registration form, visit www.mercerhealth5kchallenge.com. Mail completed entry form and check to Steve Fisher, 3953 Purdy Rd., Rockford, OH. 45882. For additional information call: Steve Fisher, 419-308-2080 or email: sfisher@jtdmh.org.

Click here to learn more about the Summer Solstice ~ the longest day of the year - sunrise to sunset 17 hours!

Parkway Local Board of Education Special Meeting 

The Parkway Local Board of Education will hold a special meeting on Monday, June 25, 2018 at 6:30 p.m. in the community room.  The purpose of the meeting will be to go into executive session.  No business will be conducted. 

Click Here for the Agenda by Sally Cox.

 
June 18-19, 2018
 

Congratulations on another new business in Rockford. The Rockford Chamber is excited to officially welcome The FIX Functional Massage Therapy to our community. Way to go Luke Stephenson!

Congratulations to Homes at Ohio's Edge Realty! Tammy Cheek, Broker/Owner officially opened her real estate business this past Saturday, and introduced her agents, Tina Siefring and Cathy Sunderhaus. Welcome to the neighborhood!

Parkway  Community Recycling has been rescheduled for Saturday (6/23/18) due to school parking lot being closed for painting last week.

Active School Shooter Training
The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with the St. Henry Police Department, will be hosting active school shooter training for deputies and other Mercer County Police Agencies on Tuesday, June 19th and Wednesday June 20th. The training will be held at the St. Henry High School at 391 E. Columbus St, St. Henry, Ohio.

This will be the 4th year for the Sheriff’s Office hosting an Active Shooter Training session in Mercer County.  We have had (53) students sign up to attend the class from all of the Law Enforcement agencies in Mercer County. We have been moving the training throughout the county.  We have had training at Marion Locals Schools, Ft. Recovery Schools, and Parkway Local Schools in the past.  Our hope is to allow all of the officers from Mercer County to attend training in each of the School Districts so that they get an idea of the general lay outs of the buildings that they may be asked to respond to one day.

We will be using simulation training weapons and want the public to be aware. There will be a visible law enforcement presence around the school as well as a large amount of police vehicles in the area. Signs will also be posted around the property warning the public to stay clear of the training.

The class will run from 8:00AM to 4:00PM each day. Any questions regarding this training should be directed to Sergeant Jay Wehrkamp by calling central dispatch at (419) 586-7724.

Parkway Local Board of Education Special Meeting 

The Parkway Local Board of Education will hold a special meeting on Monday, June 25, 2018 at 6:30 p.m. in the community room.  The purpose of the meeting will be to go into executive session.  No business will be conducted. 

Parkway Local Board of Education Meeting Date Change

The Parkway Local Board of Education regular July meeting date has been changed to Tuesday, July 24, 2018 at 6:30 p.m. in the community room. 

Rockford Alumni Dinner Held
Class of 1958

First row: Rosalie Fleming Hughes, Nancy Rogers Ritz, Sharon Davis Ames, 
Connie Henkle Marbaugh

Second row: Janet Evans Huntsberger, Sara Emans Kline, Miriam Hawk 
Fetters, Virginia Barber Hoenie, Peggy Carr Birdsong

Back row: Dave Hileman, Ron Sommers, Larry Snyder, Tom Sidenbender, 
Jerry Beougher, Hubert Eichenauer, Mac Brigner

Absent when picture was taken: Glenda Winkler Wampler

Corn in Right of Way

Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart is reminding landowners and farmers that corn that has been planted and is encroaching in the road right-of-ways can be a very serious sight problem on the narrower township and county roads.  “Such sight problems limiting the ability of the traveling public to see, can be particularly hazardous; causing the very real and dangerous potential for intersection accidents,” Wiechart said.

The Mercer County Engineer’s Office requests that landowners review these intersections where they have corn planted and if they see sight problems, they lessen the hazard by removing that portion of the crop that is obstructing the clear line of sight.  Details regarding existing township and county road right-of-ways may be obtained by contacting the engineer’s office.

Staeger Road to Close for Signal Upgrade
RJ Corman will be closing down Staeger Road in Mercer County between SR 29 and SR 703 on July 25th – July 28th.

The railroad will be doing a signal upgrade as well as installing a new panel in the crossing.

The detour will be Staeger to 703 to Riley Road to SR 29 back to Staeger Rd.

 
June 14-17, 2018
 

Flag Day is June 14, 2018
Fly your American Flag now through the Fourth of July!

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Van Wert Health North ~ New Ambulatory Center
Community Encouraged to Use Facility

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony by Jim Pope and board
Jerry Sell, MD (4th from left side)

With a dream to better serve the region, President and CEO Jim Pope, the Hospital Board, dignitaries, doctors, nurses and employees cut the ribbon at Van Wert Health North’s New Ambulatory Center on June 14 at 8:15 AM. With a large crowd on hand, Jim Pope explained the vision of the hospital in planning the facility and purpose. “Van Wert Health North will provide access to care and make it readily accessible to both area residents and visitors passing through our community.”

A champagne and fruit juice toast and light breakfast followed the ceremony and tours for the large crowd on hand.

Dr. Jocelyn Wray and Mary Pope (above) enjoy refreshments after the ceremony.

Located at 214 Towne Center Boulevard, Van Wert, Ohio at US. Routes 127 and 30 near the Walmart Shopping Center and the Goodwill Store, the 29,000 square foot walk-in facility will give patients access to a walk-in clinic, primary care, physical medicine and rehabilitation, occupational health, laboratory, and radiology/imaging services, which include an open MRI, CT scan, and X-ray capabilities.  Jocelyn (Foster) Wray, MD Chief Medical Officer and Lawrence Monger, Jr., Monger, MD, Internal Medicine and two nurse practitioners are among those personnel who will lead the team of qualified staff including Kelly (Rutledge) Sutton serving the clinic on a daily basis.

Pope explained that the new MRI is the highest quality open MRI in the region, with a 1.2-tesla advanced high-field magnet. “Unlike a typical MRI in which patients are enclosed in a narrow tube, our MRI is open on the sides.   We can provide high quality MRI images for a wide variety of needs, all for $600 or less,” said Pope.

Pope (above), who has been with VWH since 2016, went on to say that, “At the  Walk-In Clinic we can treat minor, non-life-threatening illnesses, conditions and injuries in patients of all ages – with no appointment required.  Some of the minor injuries and illnesses that can be treated at the Walk-in Clinic include colds, flu, sinus infections, strep throat, ear pain, poison ivy, minor lacerations, minor burns, urinary tract infections, acute back pain, and most pre-participation sports and camp physicals.  We accept most insurance and can bill insurance directly.” Co-pays are also accepted.

Highest quality open MRI in the region - above.

The Walk-in Clinic will be open Monday-Friday from 7 AM to 7 PM and on Saturday and Sunday from 9 AM to 3 PM.   

Opening date to serve the public is Monday, June 25 beginning at 7:00 AM.

Click on smaller thumbnail pictures below to enlarge them.

Chattanooga Community VBS

Calling all kids ages 3 through those just completing 6th grade!  The Chattanooga Community VBS will be held June 18-22 from 9 AM – 12 PM daily at Zion Lutheran Church, Chatt (corner of Tama Road and State Route 49).  We will be going on a week-long island adventure as we are “Shipwrecked – Rescued by Jesus”.  At Shipwrecked VBS, kids will discover how Jesus rescues us through life’s storms.  Our time together will be filled with Bible-learning experiences including team-building games, tasty treats, songs, crafts, and more.  All children are invited to join us for the adventure!!  For pre-registration and further information, please call 419.942.3344 or 419.203.1205.

Hot Temperatures Expected This Weekend Across Ohio; Tips for Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses

COLUMBUS – High temperatures are forecasted across Ohio this weekend and into next week, and the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is urging people to take precautions to prevent potentially dangerous heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

"Heat-related illnesses pose a serious health risk for all people, but especially for the very young, the elderly, and individuals who are overweight or have chronic medical conditions,” said ODH Medical Director Clint Koenig, M.D. “These illnesses are preventable by taking precautions like drinking plenty of cool fluids and monitoring or limiting outdoor activities.”

Here are some tips to follow during periods of high temperatures and high humidity. Be A Good Neighbor  Family, friends and neighbors are urged to periodically check on the elderly and those with chronic· medical conditions since they are among those at highest risk for heat-related illnesses.  Encourage them to stay in air-conditioned environments as much as possible, and to look for an airconditioned· shelter if necessary.  Recommend that they take cool showers or baths to cool down.·  Tell them to seek medical care immediately if they have symptoms of heat-related illness like muscle· cramps, headaches, nausea or vomiting.

Drink Cool Fluids  Help your body sweat and cool down by staying well hydrated with water. Don’t wait until you are· thirsty before you start drinking water.  Adults should drink eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day. Monitor your body – you may need to drink· more on hot and humid days.  Drink from two to four cups of water every hour while working or exercising outside.·  

Avoid fluids that contain alcohol or caffeine, because they can add to dehydration and increase the· effects of heat illness.

Monitor or Limit Outdoor Activities  Plan outdoor activities for the early morning or evening when the sun is less direct.·  

Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.·  

A wide-brimmed hat protects against sunburn and helps keep the body cooler.·  

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UV-A and UV-B rays and has a sun protection· factor (SPF) of at least 15.  

Move to the shade or into an air-conditioned building at the first signs of heat illness.·  Very young children may become preoccupied with outdoor play and not realize that they are getting· overheated.

Adults should require frequent breaks and bring them indoors for a cool drink.  Children or youths involved in team sports should be closely monitored for signs of heat stress.·

Consideration should be given to shifting practices and games to cooler times of the day.

Know the Signs of Heat Stroke  Heat stroke is a potentially life-threatening condition, characterized by a body temperature of 103· degrees or higher; red, hot and dry skin with no sweating; rapid pulse; headache; dizziness; nausea; confusion; unconsciousness; and gray skin color.  People experiencing heat stroke need immediate medical assistance – call 911.·  Before help arrives, begin cooling the victim by any means possible, such as spray from a garden hose or· by placing the person in a cool tub of water.

Don’t Forget Your Pets  Animals kept outdoors should have plenty of fresh water and a covered area to get out of the sun and· cool down.  

Never leave pets in vehicles. Even if the windows are cracked open, interior temperatures can rise· almost 20 degrees within the first 10 minutes.

 
June 12-13, 2018
 

The Village of Rockford will hold the 2019 Budget Hearing on
Tuesday - June 19th at 7:15 pm.

Electric Government Aggregation

Electric Government Aggregation was voted on by the residents of the Village of Rockford in November 2015 but was never begun.  Government aggregation is an effective way for a large group of consumers to save money on their electric bills. By bringing citizens together, the aggregation gains group buying power and can negotiate a better price with a supplier than each consumer could on their own.  

Beginning this August, we have an electric government aggregation in place.  Dynegy will be the supplier that will be on your September DP&L utility bill.  There will be a savings compared to the utility price per KWH.  The fixed rate of 0.0514 will be your rate till August 2021.  We are working with the Ohio Municipal League’s energy consultants to get us competitive pricing.  A letter from Dynegy will arrive to announce the program and give you details.  Do nothing, and you will be enrolled.  You can leave this program at anytime with out penalty.  This letter will only go to those that are directly with the utility for your generation, and not already shopping and in a contract.  Any questions, please contact the Village office or contact Palmer Energy at 419-491-1006.

The Village of Rockford Police is currently accepting application for the position of Part-Time Patrolman

Applications may be picked up in person at Rockford Village Hall : 151 East Columbia Street Rockford Ohio 45882

Completed applications, along with a resume and copies of current diplomas, degrees, military DD-214 and law enforcement training certificates are to be returned to Chief Paul May by US mail to our address above, or may be scanned and sent to rockfordpd@bright.net.

4th Quarter Honor Roll for Parkway High School - Congratulations!
by Lisa Miller

SENIORS

HIGHEST HONORS (4.00 & Above): Clayton Agler, Jared Berry, Paige Cron, Reese Fokine, Jared Gibson, Ashton Hamrick, Haley Hawk, Miranda Haynes, James-David Hileman, Logan Huff

HIGH HONORS (3.99 - 3.626): Claire Armstrong, Laura Barrett, Reid Etzcorn, Tristen McKee, Justin Rice, Mackenzie Sipe, Trevor Smith, Chanel Walls

HONORS (3.625 - 3.25): Bailey Bates, Paige Carmean, Sydney Crouch, Jeremy Feldes, Eric Hausmann, Courtney Lies, Miah Naseman, Chandler Roof, Brandon Shinn, Megan Zizelman

JUNIORS

HIGHEST HONORS (4.00 & Above): Jared Anderson, Danielle Eads, Alistair Fahncke, Matthew Gaerke, KeAndra Godsey, Madison Kroeger, Justin Miller, Faith Rollins, Haylee Stukey, Loren Stukey, Tessa Thatcher

HIGH HONORS (3.99 - 3.626): Molly Baltzell, Harley Burden, Hannah Eichenauer, Alexandria Ford, Melissa Hauter, Kara Heck, Mecaylah Hesse, Colton Kraner, Alyssa Miller, Noah Riley, Olivia Scott, Bailey Strickler, Jonathan Wehe

HONORS (3.625 - 3.25): Shay Bolton, Lauren Henderson, Rachael Ransbottom, Nicholas Riley, Faith Shellabarger, Preston Stober, Isabella Strunk, Grace Swander

SOPHOMORES

HIGHEST HONORS (4.00 & Above): Rachel Barrett, Aaron Bruns, Alexis Cairns, McKenna Johnson, Kristine Kirby, Clarissa Krogman, Sophia Miller, Kyle Roth, Olivia Rutledge, Hailey Stephenson, Ashlyn White

HIGH HONORS (3.99 - 3.626): Cory Agler, Carley Boeckman, Breyden Bruns, Ansley Burtch, Ashlyn Cornett, Claire Eichler, Leah Harshman, Macy Henkle, Lily Hipply, Jason Luth, Brooke May, Hailey Roberts, Grace Rogers, Shaelyn Thomas, Alexander Tisdale, Sydney Yoder

HONORS (3.625 - 3.25): Tori Albright, Rachel Breese, Preston Browning, Sidney Doner, Autumn Ellis, Thomas Etzler, Wesley Ford, Courtney Harding, Jacob Haver, Nicholas Hawk, Ryan Hesse, Bryce Lowery, Kiersten Roehm, Violet Taylor, McKenna Temple, Corey Walls, Emily Zimmerman

FRESHMEN

HIGHEST HONORS (4.00 & Above): Avery Boroff, Sierra Freeman, Brayton Luginbill, Lydia Miller

HIGH HONORS (3.99 - 3.626): Kaden Boroff, Treya Conn, Brendan Etzcorn, Remi' Fokine, Savanna Freeman, Zoie Huffman, Dylan Hughes, Kayla Kuhn, Bryce Mihm, Kelsey Nichols, Elijah Rich, Claire Rutledge, McKayla Sites, Mackenzie Springer, Tyler Tinkham, Sydney Waters