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January 26, 2015
Parkway Independent - Celebrating 10 years of bringing news to the Parkway area communities.
 

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey canceled the Level 1 Snow Alert for Unincorporated Areas of Mercer County
 at 8:28 AM on 12-26-2015. However, roads are still slick; please use caution.

Parkway Junior High Boys Basketball game at Ft. Loramie is cancelled for 1-26-2015.
However, the Junior High Girls game is still on at Spencerville.

Parkway Schools are on a two hour delay for Monday, January 26, 2015
Slick conditions are reported due to a storm passing through.

Level 1 Snow Alert for Unincorporated Areas of Mercer County
Posted by Sheriff Grey at 7:54 PM on 12-25-2015

Thank you to Chatt Insurance, our Weather Sponsor!

Parkway Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees On January 24, 2015 During Game

Left to right. Mike Schumm, Roger Craft, Galen Schumm, Beth Hunziker Black

AND, 1980 Panther Basketball Players and Cheerleaders Reunite - Same Evening

Front row left, Kathy King Fisher, Karla Sidenbender Butler, Lori Sidenbender Likens, Lori Granger Davis

Back row, Steve Kuhn, Stu Painter, Roger Craft, Bruce Bollenbacher, Brent Baker, Rod Leighner, Jim Wann

IRS Scams Investigated by Mercer County Sheriff

Mercer County Sheriff, Jeff Grey reports that his office has received numerous complaints from citizens within the county about a possible IRS scam.  Sheriff Grey states that his office has been in contact with the IRS and found that the calls that the citizens have been receiving are in fact a SCAM.  The IRS informed the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office that their agency WILL NOT call or e-mail  a citizen without first sending a letter in the mail with a number for the citizen to call (if there is a problem with their taxes).  The IRS assured the Sheriff’s Office that they will never ask for money over the phone.

Sheriff Grey reminds citizens to never give out personal information or information about credit cards, bank accounts, financial accounts over the phone or agree to give money to the caller.

The IRS advised that this has become a nationwide issue and is not directly targeting Mercer County.  If you should receive one of these types of calls, you do one of the following.

1)       Contact the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at 1-800-366-4484 or www.tigta.com

2)       Contact the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at 1-800-282-0515 or www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov

3)       File a report with the Federal Trade Commission at http://frccomplaintassistant.gov, please add “IRS Telephone Scam” to the comments of your complaint

4)       Contact the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office Detectives at 419-586-1450

Mercer Health Alters Visitor Restrictions due to Influenza

The state of Ohio is continuing to experience widespread influenza. At Mercer Health, we are seeing influenza patients in our outpatient areas, as well as patients that have been admitted for care and treatment related to influenza. As a precaution, we are continuing to limit visitors throughout Mercer Health including Mercer County Community Hospital and the Celina Community Medical Center (CCMC).

We continue to restrict all visitors under the age of 14.   We encourage those who are sick and need medical care to seek treatment.  However, if you are exhibiting signs of the cold or flu symptoms (e.g. fever, cough, sore throat) and ARE NOT seeking treatment, we kindly ask that you do not visit.

We continue to restrict visitors to protect our patients, especially those with compromised immune systems from further illness, protect visitors from exposure to influenza, and to help keep our staff healthy so we may continue to provide quality care for our patients.

These updated visiting restrictions will remain in place to protect our staff and community until the number of influenza cases in Mercer County and the surrounding areas decrease.

Flu Vaccines Still Available 

The Van Wert County Health Department would like to remind the public that is not too late to obtain a flu vaccine for this season’s influenza. Vaccination remains the best protection against the flu, its severity and potential serious complications. • If you have not received a flu shot this season and would like to obtain one: o Ages 6 months to 18 years and ages 65 and older may receive a flu shot at the Van Wert County Health Department. Please call 419-238-0808 extension 103 or 107 to schedule an appointment. o Ages 19-64 please visit a pharmacy to obtain a flu shot. Influenza is a respiratory disease caused by a virus. Symptoms may include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. If you have any of these symptoms, please contact your physician. Anti-viral medications are most effective when used early in the course of the disease. Other effective ways to avoid getting or spreading influenza include hand washing; covering coughs and sneezes; avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth and staying home when sick until fever-free for 24 hours.

Rockford Village Administrator’s Report  & More Below

Jeff attended a meeting with other Mercer County Administrators.  Discussions regarded the revenue loss from the state over the last several years.  There is a way to increase revenues in the permissive registration fees for vehicles.  This is in ORC sections 450406 and 4504172 that the village has the ability to increase the fee by $5 for one section and $5 for the other sections.   The county also has the ability to enact this fee which would leave us with no additional funds.  We have approximately 1198 registration and at 85% would be an additional $10,000 for the village.   Council discussed and agreed that in order for the fees to come to Rockford, we need to act on these sections with legislation.  We will have 3 readings on each beginning at the next council meeting.  We need village money to stay in the village.

Click Here to read the latest and past Rockford Village Council News

Congratulations to John Dooley the Rockford Village Council President for 2015.

New Common Pleas Judge Martin Burchfield will be sworn in on Thursday, January 29, 2015 @ 11: 00 am.   This ceremony will be held in the Common Pleas Courtroom, Courthouse, 3d Floor.

2015 Van Wert County OSU Extension AG DAY
Join us Tuesday, February 17, 2015 for our annual Van Wert County Ag Day with registration beginning at 8:00 a.m. Incorporated into the day's programming is the 3-hour Fertilizer Certification Training that is needed by September 30, 2017 to obtain the certificate that will be required to obtain and spread fertilizer in the near future.  Guest speakers and subjects to be covered include Curtis Young and Harold Watters, OSU Van Wert County Extension Educator and OSU Agronomy Field Specialist, "Fertilizer Certification Training."; John Barker, OSU Knox County Extension Educator, "Unmanned Aerial Vehicles: Toys or Tools for Agriculture"; Ed Lentz, OSU Hancock County Extension Educator, "Weeds of concern in crop production";  and Curtis Young, OSU Van Wert County Extension Educator, " So you are thinking of dropping your traited corn hybrids - some things to consider."  
A very informative day with Continental Breakfast and Lunch, plus meeting materials for only $15.00 with pre-registration.  $20.00 for walk-ins.  Ag Day will be held in the Jr. Fair Building on the Van Wert County Fairgrounds. Come early and browse our sponsor booths. Door prizes to be offered at the end of the meeting at approximately 3:30 p.m.  Register by calling the OSU Extension Van Wert County office at 419-238-1214. Registration Deadline: February 13, 2015.

 LIMA POWWOW DATES ANNOUNCED

The 6th annual Lima “Honoring Our Native Heritage” Powwow, will be held February 21stth and 22nd    2015 at the United Auto Workers Hall, 1440 Bellefontaine Ave, Lima, OH.  The doors open at 10:00 AM both Saturday and Sunday.  Grand entry will be at 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM on Saturday and at 1:00 PM on Sunday.

The UAW Hall is off OH 309, at the 309, 117, and Kibby Street intersection.  Bellefontaine Ave. ends at the UAW Hall. Coming off I-75 it is exit 125 from the South and 125 B from the North.  The UAW Hall number is 419-224-6791.

Co-host Drums for the powwow are Sky Hawk and Southern Singers. Head dancers are Justin Kwascigroh and Shawnee Waters. Brian Darst is the announcer, Shawn Reilly, the Head Veteran, and the Arena Director is Aaron Stevens

An auction of Native crafts, etc. donated by the vendors, will be held at short intervals throughout both days.

There will be vendors from several states in the United States, Canada, and South America with their offerings of many varieties of handmade Native American merchandise. They will have everything from beads and craft supplies, fur and leather clothing to tomahawks, knives, and bow and arrows, turquoise jewelry, t-shirts, and art work. 

Of course, there will be the Indian frybread and Indian tacos, Buffalo burgers, Shawnee dogs, corn soup, nachos/cheese, fried dill pickles and more to warm you and satisfy those hunger pangs.

The admission fee is $5.00 for adults, $3.00 for those over 62 and children between the ages of 6 and 12.  Those under 6 and over 90 are free.

A powwow is spiritual, exciting, entertaining, beautiful and educational, all in one, under one roof.  A moving experience you won’t want to miss! Come feel the heartbeat of the drum and learn more about the Native ways. The public will be invited to participate in many of the dances, and don’t miss the candy dance for the youngsters!

Host motel for the powwow is The Howard Johnson Hotel, 419-222-0004.

For information: Call or E-mail Phyllis Davis-419-203-0377, padavis39@embarqmail.com or John Thompson, 419-587-3474. Vendor information call or E-mail Terri Brewster 419-648-9230, or dancing_fawn@watchtv.net

 
January 24-25, 2015
 

Band concert is cancelled for today, Sunday January 25, 2015 due to slick road conditions.

Rockford Carnegie Library News includes Classes, Tax Forms and Fax Fees

"Frozen" Fun is the family program scheduled for Tuesday, January 27th at 6:30 p.m.  Games, crafts and activities from the movie "Frozen" will be featured.  Everyone is invited to the fun.

     Shannon Painter-Carpenter is offering 8 different photography classes at the library and at the Java Nation in Celina.  For more information and the registration form go to the Rockford Library website:  www.rcpubliclibrary.org.  There are links on the first page about the classes and the enrollment form.

      The Board of Trustees is starting the search for a new trustee due to an opening on the Board.  If you are interested in supporting the library call Rozann (419-363-2630 at the library) or send a note to PO Box 330 Rockford, OH  45882.

      The library still has not received tax forms for 2014.  The IRS will not be sending booklets out this year, only the forms.  The forms can also be printed from the IRS website.

      The library trustees changed the fee for copies and faxes at the library.  The fees for copies are now $.10/page, $.25/page for colored copies and $.50/page to send a FAX to a toll number.  These fees are lower than what was previously charged.

 
January 23, 2015
 

THIS SATURDAY WE WILL BE INDUCTING FOUR NEW MEMBERS INTO THE PARKWAY AHTLETIC HALL OF FAME.  GALEN SCHUMM, ROGER CRAFT, BETH (HUNZIKER) BLACK, AND MIKE SCHUMM WILL BE INDUCTED IN BETWEEN THE JV AND VARSITY GAMES VS BRADFORD. 

IC School Fifth Graders Complete DARE
Immaculate  Conception held the fifth grade Drug Abuse Resistance Education graduation Friday January 9th at the church.  The principal Mrs.  Muhlenkamp welcomed everyone.  D.A.R.E. Officer  Deputy Sue Miller gave a brief recap of the last few weeks. D.A.R.E. Essay Winners reading their essays were David Kramer and Isiac Welling. The Honor students were Drake Krogman and  Brian Williams. They were presented medals purchased by the Mercer County D.A.R.E. Boosters.  The special speaker was Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey. He encouraged the students to ask for help when they need it. Each student successfully completing the D.A.R.E. program received a certificate and a shirt.  The program closed with Father Schnipke  blessing the students. The fifth grade teacher assisting with the program was Mrs. Reineke.  The mercer County D.A.R.E. program is a divison of the Mercer County Sheriff Office.

JORDAN THOMPSON NIGHT WILL BE JANUARY 31 AS THE BOYS  AND GIRLS TEAMS PLAY LINCOLNVIEW. JORDAN WILL BE HONORED AT HALFTIME OF THE BOYS VARSITY GAME.  AFTERWARDS JORDAN WILL BE IN THE COMMONS SIGNING AUTOGRAPHS.

Celina Police and Mercer County Sheriff Make Arrest

Celina Police Chief Tom Wale and Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey report the arrest of an individual, and suspected heroin and firearms seized.  On Tuesday January 21, the “HIT” (Heroin Interdiction Team) comprised of members from the Celina Police Department and Mercer County Sheriff’s Office served a warrant at 1014 Hemlock Street in Celina.  Arrested was 24 year old Steven Noggler who was staying at the residence on an outstanding warrant for contempt of court.  After obtaining consent to search from the homeowner HIT members recovered drug paraphernalia, a pill bottle containing 25 capsules with suspected heroin residue inside, two handguns, and assorted ammunition.

Open Letter for Support of a New Project at Shanes Park
Rockford Community Days
P.O. Box 75, Rockford, OH  45882
Festival Dates ------ June 19-20-21, 2015 !

Dear Friends and Supporters,

Rockford Community Days is a nonprofit organization that is devoted to making a difference at Shanes Park!  Our current project is to help purchase and replace the old Shane Hall Building.   It’s had many years of use and has served us well, but it’s time for a new, cleaner, more efficient building. Your donation will help ensure years of enjoyment at Shanes Park.

We ask that you consider supporting our cause.  Your donation will be acknowledged in several ways.  A ‘thank you’ on our Rockford Community Days Facebook page and on our Supporter Banner that will be displayed during Community Days.

Rockford Community Days 2015 will feature  Shelby County Line and  Kill the Rabbit for your music entertainment. 
We will have our amazing annual Fireworks display on Friday night at 10 pm.  We will have inflatables for children’s entertainment.  We will also be having our 21st annual car show and cruise in, a quarter auction, a raffle, and many more events !   

WE NEED YOUR HELP TO MAKE THIS EVENT SUCCESSFUL!   PLEASE CONSIDER SUPPORTING US IN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING WAYS :

1. A FINANCIAL DONATION
2. EVENT SPONSORSHIP – Friday night band and/or Saturday night band
3. QUARTER AUCTION ITEMS / RAFFLE ITEMS
4. FIREWORK DONATIONS
5. CHILDRENS ACTIVITIES
6. PARTICIATE IN OUR PARADE ON JUNE 20TH

Donation deadline:   March, 1st 2015 

If you have any questions or suggestions please feel free to contact:
Amy Joseph @ 419-953-7874  or Lisa Kuhn @ 419-363-3032 ext  1 or by email
amy.joseph@rockfordohio.org or lisa.kuhn@rockfordohio.org

Thank You for your past and continued support !  We can’t do it without out you ! 

Please mail donations to  Rockford Community Days, PO Box 75, Rockford, OH  45882 or drop off at the Village Office ~~ call us if you would like us to pick up a donation.   

Click Here for Van Wert County Common Pleas Court Cases Heard for January 2015

 
January 21-22, 2015
 

Looking for a few good Singers for an Easter Cantata

To:                      All Rockford Area Church Singers
What:                 Community Choir for Cantata
When:                Friday April 3, 2015 Good Friday Performance at the Parkway Auditorium in Rockford, Ohio
Time:                 7:00 PM
                           Cantata: Salvation's Story by Cliff Duren
Director:            Richard Sherrick

Contact:            Rockford United Methodist Church        419-363-3230 for information

We encourage church choirs, praise teams, and individual singers to join us for this chance to combine our voices
as we Praise and Worship our Lord Jesus Christ.

Community Choir 2015 Rehearsal Schedule

Wednesday, February 11 2015 at RUMC -                 8:00 p.m. - 8:45 p.m.
Wednesday, February 18 2015 at RUMC -                 8:00 p.m. - 8:45 p.m.
Sunday, February 22 2015 at RUMC -                        2:00 p.m. -4:00 p.m.
Wednesday, February 15 2015 at RUMC -                8:00 p.m. - 8:45 p.m.
Wednesday, March 4, 2015 at RUMC -                      8:00 p.m. - 8:45 p.m.
Wednesday, March 11, 2015 at RUMC -                    8:00 p.m. - 8:45 p.m.
Sunday, March 15, 2015 at RUMC -                           2:00 p.m. -4:00 p.m.
Wednesday, March 18, 2015 at RUMC -                   8:00 p.m. - 8:45 p.m.
Wednesday, March 25, 2015 at RUMC -                   8:00 p.m. - 8:45 p.m.
Sunday, March 29, 2015 at Parkway Auditorium -    2:00 p.m. -4:00 p.m.
Wednesday, April 1, 2015 at Parkway Aud. -            7:30 p.m.-8:45 p.m.
April 3, 2015 -Friday at Parkway Aud.                        7:00 p.m. Performance

New Art Classes – Wassenberg Art Center

New art classes are beginning at Wassenberg Art Center, 214 South Washington Street, Van Wert OH in February. The cost is$25–$70

Morning Watercolor Class: Tuesday mornings 10 a.m. – noon. Instructor: Pat Rayman. Persons are encouraged to sign up anytime and the class is sold in monthly increments. $35 for members/$40 for non-members.

Stained Glass Class: Make a “take-home, stained glass, I-did-that” project to be proud of. Thursdays, February 5–March 12, from 6:30–8:30 p.m. (Ages 15 and up) The six-week course, taught by Jerry Mazur will cover leading techniques, copper foiling, other items and costs $55 members/$60 non-members. 

Vine & Palette: Tuesday, February 3 from 6:30–9 p.m. The one-night, monthly event includes all painting materials and first glass of wine. Participants may bring a snack to share if desired. Cost is $30 for members/$35 for non-members.

Private Vine & Palettes can be designed for private or corporate parties and Pizza & Palette version is available for young people.

Acrylic Painting with Kathy Funderburg: February 10–March 3 from 5:30–7:30 p.m. (ages 15 and up) Basic and advanced instruction and techniques. Cost of this course is $35 members/$40 non-members. Materials fee $20 or you may provide your own.

Basic Pottery with Brandon Knott: February 11 – April 1 from 6–8 p.m. 8-week course (ages 15 and up). All areas of pottery will be covered by Brandon including, wheel, slab work and sculpture. To learn more about Brandon visit his website:www.itsknottpottery.com. Cost of this course is $65 members/$70 non-members. Materials included. 

To sign up for a class please call the art center at 419.238.6837

Annual Chamber Awards Banquet –Award Applications Being Accepted

The Annual Awards Banquet of the Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce will be held on Thursday, March 5th at Romer’s in Celina.   Social time will begin at 5:30pm with dinner at 6pm.  The program will begin at 7pm with awards given out after the guest speaker’s presentation.     

This year’s guest speaker is Brian Blasko.  Brian has been entertaining and inspiring audiences as a professional speaker for more than 15 years focusing on helping others discover and maximize their own personal potential.  In his spare time he has written two books, Cruisin' through Life at 35 MPH and Sending Signals.  Known for his high-energy presentation, engaging style and infectious sense of humor, Brian is one of the most sought after speakers in the country today.

This year’s speaker is being sponsored by Second National Bank and Hot Brass
Personal Defense. 

Chamber awards applications are being taken at this time and must be in by February 7th.   The four awards are Business of the Year, Citizens of the Year, Humanitarian and Achievement Awards.  Award applications are available online at www.celinamercer.com on the scrolling bar in the middle of the screen. 

Tickets are on sale now for $25 each or you can purchase a corporate table of

eight for $195.  RSVPs are due by Feb. 21st.  Call the Celina Mercer County Chamber for tickets or further information at 419 586-2219 or email info@celinamercer.com.

Would you Like to become an Umpire?
The Midwest Buckeye Umpire's Association (Van Wert, OH) will be holding instructional classes for those interested in obtaining an OHSAA license to umpire high school baseball games for the 2015 season. Classes will begin on February 9th and will be held every Monday at 6:00PM at Van Wert High School until the conclusion of the course on March 23rd. Cost of the class is $135 which includes all instructional materials as well as local and state association dues for the 2015 season. If you have questions regarding the course or would like to register, contact Ryan Thompson at (419)305-0426 or ryanthompson2000@hotmail.com Registration deadline is February 1st. 

Benefit to be Held
There will be a benefit for Betty (Kline) O' Day on Saturday, February 7th at the Ohio City Community building. Betty was a resident of the Rockford Villa Apartments in recent decades, but was born and raised in the Village of Ohio City. She enjoyed making pot holders and giving them to friends and strangers with a smile on her face. Betty passed away on December 11th after battling vulvar cancer. The benefit is to cover funeral costs and to celebrate her life. 

To pay for expenses, we are having two gun raffles. We have 250 Mossburg 500 12 ga tickets and  250 Marlin 1894 45/ 70 tickets to be raffled off. All tickets need to be sold before the raffle. These tickets can be purchased for $10 a piece from Indiana & Ohio Firearm of Decatur, BHS Guns and Chuck and Deb's in Ohio City.

There is a pulled pork dinner that starts at 11:00 and a live auction that will proceed at 4:00. The band "Kill the Rabbit" will provide entertainment starting at 8:00. There is a suggested donation to see the band.

Monetary donations can be made to Den Herder Funeral Home: 419-399-2866

You for information or donations, please contact Scott Bigham at 419-953-9511

Back to Business

Of the 16 different high school career tech programs available at Vantage, 3 are specialized business programs. 

For the technologically creative and artistic student, the Interactive Media program offers exciting opportunities.  Students learn a combination of elements such as animation, sound, and computer-generated graphics used for purposes of entertainment, presentation, advertising, or public relations.  Careers in Interactive Media involve creating, designing, and producing interactive multimedia products and services, including websites, and the development of digitally-generated media used in business.  A new 3D printer enhances project creativity.  Students become skilled in manipulating images and information from a variety of sources including audio, video, still photos, animation, text, soundtracks and digital data using computer applications and visual and sound techniques.  Internet applications and website creation are also included in this program.         

Students interested in the Medical office field can get a head start in the Medical Office Management program, where they will learn business skills, office techniques, accounting, specific business software applications, medical terminology, abbreviations and Anatomy/Physiology.  Students develop skills in medical transcription, utilize medical coding, billing and accounting systems and procedures.  The demand is great for students with this educational background.

Interested in seeing how a computer and its systems work from the inside out?  The Network Systems program provides students the opportunity to work on state-of-the-art equipment while learning to make basic repairs, network management and troubleshooting within the system.  They design, build, install and repair complex computer network systems, develop programming skills for and apps game creation, and apply computer forensics and information security software to keep systems safe.   Some of the most recent technology they are using includes Google Glasses, Motion Capture, and Oculus Rift Virtual 3D Reality.  Other areas of study also include programming, computer architecture and forensics, information and network security, workstation management and business applications.

If you want to find out about career opportunities in any of these fields or have questions about the Business programs at Vantage, please call Mike Knott, Student Services Supervisor at 419-238-5411 ext. 2032 or email him at knott.m@vantagecareercenter.com.

The annual Open House will be held Monday, Feb. 9, 2015 from 5 – 7:30 pm.  If you haven't been to the new school yet, this is your chance!  Tour the building, see the labs, check out the new equipment, talk to the staff and students.  Do you have a sophomore who's interested in attending Vantage?  There will be a Parent Information Session in the Community Room @ 6 pm to help answer questions you may have.  Interested in going back to school yourself? Adult Education/Ohio Technical Center representatives will also be there to answer questions about Vantage Adult Ed classes.  No time to cook?   Help support school-wide student activities by eating dinner @ Vantage.   This year, several local eating establishments will be set up in the Commons and have sample size portions of food for you to try. We're calling it “A Taste of Vantage”!  Mark it on your calendars for Monday, February 9, 2015 from 5:00 - 7:30 pm. Tickets for the Taste of Vantage will be available at the door for just $5 for 6 tickets.  Enjoy some tasty treats from Fricker’s, Baked to Perfection, Puckerbrush Pizza, Main Street Market (Ottoville), Remedy Sports Bar & Grille, and Paulding Dairy Queen.  It's gonna be a great night - You won't want to miss it!

CAPTION:

            Vantage Network Systems seniors demonstrate Oculus Rift Virtual 3D Reality to a student at the Global IT Club at Rhodes State College in recognition of Computer Science Education Week and Hour of Code.

The next meeting of the Rockford Area Development Corporation is scheduled for Monday, January 26th at 7:30 in the library basement. 

Ike Coate to Address Western Ohio Civil War Roundtable

“An Army Marches on its Stomach”

Ike Coate, President of the Western Ohio Civil War Roundtable, will address the January 22 meeting of the group. His remarks will explore a variety of issues related to the care and feeding of Civil War Soldiers. The meeting is held in Room 186 - Andrews Hall,  Wright State University – Lake Campus, in Celina. Meeting begins at 7:15 PM 

Coate is considered an expert on the Civil War, as he has traveled extensively visiting war related sites, from the famous ones to the more obscure. Roundtable programs are free and open to the public.

Just feeding tens of thousands of troops every day was difficult enough…now consider units in the field with transportation and security issues of a long supply line. All of this is compounded by the need to provide forage for the draft animals.

Food prep had to be simple to feed so many mouths. Storage was neither convenient nor effective; spoilage and waste added to the woes.

Mr. Coate will discuss the hardships endured by the common soldiers.  Soldiers writing home frequently mentioned bad food as part of their war experience. 

 
January 20, 2015
 

Winter Homecoming at Parkway
The Panthers took on the Ft. Recovery Indians on Homecoming Night, January 16, 2015. Nikki Fox caught all the action. Left to right are attendants and Queen Terra:  Junior Jasmine Forman, Senior Cassi Kuhn, Queen Terra Walls, Senior Brenna Brazle, Sophomore Megan Christine, Freshman Miranda Rae Haynes.

They're BACK! 
CHURCH BASEMENT LADIES
"THE LAST (POTLUCK) SUPPER"

Along with presenter, US Bank on Sunday, April 19th at 2:00 & 7:30 PM, NPAC will travel back to 1979 with those Church Basement Ladies in the Last Potluck Supper!

STEP UP TO PURE
ENTERTAINMENT!
THE STEPCREW

Presented by Vancrest Healthcare Centers, The StepCrew fills the NPAC stage with excitement and energy on April 14 at 7:30 PM as they perform Irish Stepdancing, Ottawa Valley Stepdancing, and Modern Tap. Six dynamic performers excel in traditional forms of dance and create brand new, modern fusions of all three styles.

Men’s Prostate Cancer Group to Review Treatment Side Effects

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 some common side effects following prostate cancer treatment will be reviewed along with treatment options for these side effects.  The meeting will be held at 7:00PM on Tuesday, January 20th in Conference Room 3 at the Joint Township Hospital in St. Marys. 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.

 
January 17-19, 2015
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - Monday the 19th
 

Henkle Insurance Honored by Motorists Mutual for 50 Year Mark

Henkle Insurance Agency recently received a 50 year plaque from the  Motorists Mutual Representative Dan Sherran.  Dan Henkle started the agency back in November of 1964 marking this year as their 50th year with Motorists Mutual based out of Columbus, Ohio.
Henkle Insurance Agency has been serving the Rockford Communities Insurance needs for 50 years. The agency has now reached to three generations in the family when Joel and Jordan Henkle joined their father Todd and grandfather Dan in the office. Stop in their Rockford location to get a free quote today on your auto, home, farm, life, annuity, and commercial needs. 

Photography Sessions Being Offered by Local Art Teacher

Have you been wanting to learn more about your digital camera or your SmartPhone camera? How about taking great shots, editing photos, organizing them and even ordering online?

Shannon Painter-Carpenter, experienced art teacher from Marion Local and current Parkway teacher is offering Photography Classes January through March 2015 both at the  Rockford Carnegie Library in Rockford and  Java Nation in Celina. Each session will last 60-90 minutes with each class being only one session. Cost of each session is $20 or 3 for $50, 6 for $100 or 8 for $130.

A complete printable listing of all sessions and dates can be read by clicking here.
1-19-2015

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

Congratulations to Winner Author Jacqueline Franklin

Onetime resident of Mercer County, Jacqueline M. Franklin, daughter of the late, Darlene (Eddie) & Dorothy Bollenbacher, was recently honored by worldwide writing organization, FanStory. She will receive a trophy for 5th place out of 221 novelists, for 2014, gaining her worldwide recognition. Among her other awards are ‘Recognition’ and ‘All Time Best’ for her short stories and poetry. She also took 1st place in the ‘Book of the Month’ for December. Jacqueline recently self-published, ‘A Penny For Your Thoughts,’ available at amazon.com. She has written seven novels. This year she will begin to self-publish them, her short stories, and poetry. You may follow her blog @ www.novelsbyjaxandotherstuff.blogspot.com

Rural By Choice Interview Team

On Thursday, Lincolnview FFA Ag Business students took advantage of Van Wert County Economic Development initiative Rural by Choice.  Last month, the RBC team visited Lincolnview and Crestview Jr. High Students to introduce the question of “Why not here?”  The team set out to engage local students with concepts of staying in Van Wert after high school or returning to Van Wert County after college.  The RBC team also broached the idea of the resume building, interviewing, and other ways the local community could get involved in the discussion with our youth about making Van Wert a competitive consideration in their future plans.  

Krista Seibert, Agricultural Education Instructor & FFA Advisor at Lincolnview High School contacted Economic Development Director, Sarah Smith, as she had a plan to rotate her eleven FFA, Ag Business Students through mock interviews after their completion of a three week educational block on the interviewing process and executing sound interviews.  Seibert explained that she wanted to give the kids a more realistic experience from someone they weren’t familiar with and someone who had experience with the process and in the field. 

Rural by Choice team members CW Harting III (Harting Farms, Convoy) and Gary Moser (Roanna Farms, Convoy) were both called in for the cause and the Lincolnview students rose to the occasion.  Smith had economic developer and author, Mark Lautman in town from Albuquerque, New Mexico for the 2015 County ED Kickoff later that afternoon and they had a chance to stop in at the school and see the process.  “He had the poise of a college kid,” Lautman commented on one of the Lincolnview Juniors on his completion of the process, “I am really impressed with the Van Wert youth.”   Harting and Moser both echoed Lautman’s observation and it sends a positive message to our employers that the workforce IS coming.  “Seeing kids excited about the process, having local business owners involved in their development, and having  educators like Seibert show that Van Wert County is making moves in the right direction to connect the necessary players to give our county a competitive edge toward growth,”  added Smith. 

If you are interested in participating in Rural by Choice, have ideas for the program, or would like the RBC team to present, please contact the Van Wert County Economic Development Office 419-238-6159. 

Parkway Middle School Honor Roll ~ End of 2nd Quarter 2014-2015 – Click Here for their names!

OUR OLD BOOK CASE

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

Photo caption:  Sister Cecilia Huber, Cincinnati, is a famous citizen from Saint Sebastian.|

Frequently when persons leave Mercer County, we who stay behind fail to realize the extent of their contributions to our country, our state and our community.  One such person is Sister Cecilia Huber, a member of the Ursuline Sisters of Brown County, Ohio, and a composer, college teacher, and writer. Sister Cecilia was born at the crossroads of St. Sebastian, a parish near Chickasaw, Ohio in 1931.  She lived her early life next to the church at St. Sebastian, with her parents, Urban and Marian Huber, and her four brothers and three sisters.  Her father recognized her musical abilities and provided music lessons with a special teacher on the upright piano he had purchased for five dollars.

Sister Cecilia attended the one-room school located about a mile from St. Sebastian Church, and began High School at St. Johns, in nearby Maria Stein.  A local priest evidently noticed her exceptional music abilities and suggested that she attend the Ursuline Academy and Boarding School at St. Martin, Ohio, about a hundred miles south of Mercer County.  After graduation, she returned to Mercer County working as a nanny and also at the Bair Pharmacy in Celina.  However, she experienced the call to consider her future life as an Ursuline Nun.  She returned the following year to St. Martin and began her multi-year preparation to become a professed Ursuline Nun, which she did in 1956.  She earned her Bachelor Degree from Mt. St. Joseph University, and Master’s from College Conservatory of Music (CCM) at the University of Cincinnati. 

The Ursuline community had a long history in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, having established their boarding school at St. Martin in 1845 and specialized in the education of young women at several schools in the Cincinnati area.

Sister Cecilia shares her experiences in a new publication, “Led by an Invisible Hand,” which recounts her life as a nun.  And what a life it was!  For ten years, she taught music at the Ursuline Boarding School.  Another ten years she taught English, music, and religion at the Oak Street Ursuline Academy, in Cincinnati and for nine years at the Blue Ash campus of the Ursuline Academy.   The book, “Led by an Invisible Hand”  is available from the Ursulines of Brown County, 20860 Ohio 251, Fayetteville, OH 45118.

She then went to St. Marys, Alaska and taught Inuit (Eskimo) children for six years.  Next she returned to the Blue Ash campus in suburban Cincinnati for ten additional years.  She also served as Superior of her community of Ursuline Nuns for six years.  Her office is filled with books centered around her computer.  On one of the shelves is a twelve inch stack of published religious and liturgical music that she has composed.  She also published books, “Quyana,” the story of her Alaskan adventures  and “Christmas Wonder,” a musical book of songs. She now teaches music at Chatfield College in Brown County and serves as a music consultant to her religious community.  At present, Sister Cecilia is anticipating the collaboration with the granddaughter of her CCM Professor, Madame Olga Conus, on a book about how she and her husband came to the U.S. during the Russian Revolution.

Sister Cecilia is one of those special Mercer County natives who succeeded as an educator, a music composer and writer.  She became an acclaimed pianist and noted administrator in her progressive religious community.  She never lost her love of nature and respect for rural life, a trait she developed in Mercer County.  Her enthusiastic and ready smile clearly indicates the peace she has found in her vocation as an Ursuline for more than sixty years.   A thank you goes to Allen Bernard who interviewed Sister Cecilia and shared this story of her life.

 
January 16, 2015
 

Lady Panthers Spaghetti Dinner

Frozen Fog in Rockford
Photos by Todd Henkle – Thanks for sharing!

Resident of Rockford and surrounding areas woke to a beautiful landscape on Wednesday, January 14, 2014 when a condition known as Frozen Fog, commonly called Freezing  Fog or Rime consists of water droplets that freeze upon contact with objects they encounter, forming a layer of thin ice or rime. This happens because the water is supercooled: its temperature is below normal freezing point, but it has remained liquid. The phenomenon differs from ice fog, which is made up of tiny particles of ice. Many regions of the world can experience freezing fog, especially during the winter months, when the air temperature can drop below freezing, creating the conditions necessary to create supercooled water droplets.

Fog normally forms where there is cold air over a relatively warm, moist surface, such as a lake, wet ground or moist soil. Freezing fog forms when the air temperature is below freezing point — 32°F (0°C). Strange as it may seem, water does not always freeze at the same temperature at which ice melts. It will do so if it is in contact with something solid: this could be a surface or container. In the case of a suspended droplet, a “freezing nucleus” — usually a tiny ice crystal — is required, unless the air temperature is very low.

Between 32°F (0°C) and 5°F (-15°C) the suspended water droplets that make up fog, or a cloud, are normally in a supercooled state. They remain liquid because there is nothing for ice to crystallize around, but on touching anything solid, they will immediately freeze. Surfaces exposed to freezing fog therefore quickly become coated with ice.

Click on the smaller pictures of Shanes Park to enlarge them:

Patrol’s Sergeant Grigsby promoted to Lieutenant at the Van Wert Post

COLUMBUS – Sgt. Timothy P. Grigsby was promoted to the rank of lieutenant, January 13, 2015, by Colonel Paul A. Pride, Patrol superintendent, during a ceremony at the Patrol’s Academy.  Lt. Grigsby will transfer from his current assignment at the Lima Post to serve as post commander of the Van Wert Post.

Sgt. Grigsby began his Patrol career in June 2005 as a member of the 145th Academy Class. He earned his commission in January the following year and was assigned to the Lima Post, where he was selected as Post Trooper of the Year in 2009 and 2010. While at the Lima Post, he also earned the Ace Award for excellence in auto larceny enforcement in 2007 and 2009. In 2011, he was promoted to the rank of sergeant and transferred to the Van Wert Post to serve as an assistant post commander. In 2012, he returned to his most recent assignment at the Lima Post.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol is an internationally accredited agency whose mission is to protect life and property, promote traffic safety and provide professional public safety services with respect, compassion, and unbiased professionalism.

 
January 15, 2015
 

On December 30, the students of Roberta LePage shared a Christmas program with the residents of Shane Hill.  The students who played are:  Treya Conn (daughter of Trevelin Conn), Madalyn Heindel (daughter of Tom & Shannon Heindel), Brooke Stephenson (daughter of Luke Stephenson and Angie Stephenson), Clare Krogman (daughter of Dave & Marcia Krogman), Corban Rich (son of Doug & Jennifer Rich), Hutch and Gwyneth Ridenour (son and daughter of John & Tricia Ridenour), and Coby Jones (son of Mike & Shawn Jones).  The audience enjoyed all the songs, and even sang along with several of them. 

 
January 14, 2015
 

Parkway Schools are on a two hour delay for Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Charity Auction
St John Lutheran Church Youth Group has their annual Charity Auction on Sunday, January 25th at 2:00PM at the Church’s Family Life Center. 

The youth hold this auction to raise money for their mission trip in June.  On the trip, the High School youth perform minor home repairs such as building wheelchair ramps, porch and roof repair and painting for the  low income and elderly.  In addition to the repairs, the youth share their faith with the residents of the homes by inviting them to share a lunch and take part in daily devotions. 

There will be lots and lots of wonderful items to be auctioned.  The items include new and used funiture, household items, collectables, gift certificates for local services, restuarents, and department stores and much more.  Tom & Eric Robbins will be our auctioneers. Also there is a lunch stand serving delicious home made food including sandwiches and pie.  Thrivent (a fraternal Lutheran organization) is also supporting the auction. Everyone in the community is welcome to come and join in the fun. 

Picture: 2014 Mission Trip to Maysville KY.

Rockford Police Department and Area Businesses Support Upcoming Officer Phil Program at Parkway Schools
by Kelsey Mersing of Creative Safety Products

The Officer Phil Program is delighted to present their 2014-2015 programs to Parkway Elementary School at 8:30 a.m. and 9:15 a.m. on Friday, January 23, 2015. With the Rockford Police Department’s participation, the Officer Phil Program will emphasize some important topics. Since the program is adapted for elementary grade students, the lessons will be taught in a fun, entertaining way. Much to the children’s enjoyment, one of Officer Phil’s Pals, Turbo the Turtle, will be there to help teach the lessons.

The program begins with an introduction of the Rockford Police Officers in attendance. It is important for the children to know that officers are friendly, approachable, and work to keep them safe every day.  They are always around to help the children if they need it.

The children’s attention will easily be attained starting with the first magic trick. This trick gets the children focused and reinforces some important program “rules”: no talking, paying attention, laughing, learning and having fun.

Once the Edu-tainer has their attention, the children are asked to recall some safety rules that they use at home, at school, or out and about. The Edu-tainer shares his ideas regarding bus safety, car safety, and internet safety. Each idea is represented by a light which is tossed into a magic bag. The children volunteer to “toss” up some of their ideas and the Edu-tainer magically catches them and places them into the bag as well.  With the last toss all the “bright ideas” light up the bag. The children love this visual as they can see their safety rules being shared with the audience.            

Stranger Awareness is covered each year and this year’s lesson is illustrated by “blending” four different colored scarves together. For this illustration, each scarf represents a safety rule to remember when dealing with strangers. Blue=Don’t Go: Strangers can be in person or online. If you don’t know them, don’t go with them. Red=Run: If a stranger wants you to go with them, run away and get to a safe place with other grownups as fast as you can. Yellow=Yell: While you run away, yell “stranger” or “stranger danger”. If others see you, that will help scare the stranger away. Green=Tell: As soon as you are safe, tell a grownup you know what happened. When the scarves are put together, they are magically blended to form one scarf just as these rules will all come together to form one rule that will keep you safe if a stranger bothers you: DON’T GO, RUN, YELL, and TELL a grownup what happened.  

This year the Officer Phil Program will also talk about the value of respect. As the Edu-tainer pulls rabbits from a hat, the children are reminded that, like the rabbits, they are all different. They do not all act the same, dress the same, or look the same. But even though they are all different, they can still work together to help each other be the best they can be. The Edu-tainer will emphasize that they should treat others the way they want to be treated and show respect for their peers, families, teachers, the police, and most important, show respect for themselves.

As mentioned earlier, Officer Phil’s Special Pal this year is Turbo the Turtle. Turbo will be welcomed with great enthusiasm. He will talk to the children about making healthy choices such as eating right, drinking plenty of water, exercising and getting enough rest. Turbo loves to skateboard so he reinforces the importance of wearing a helmet, too. Last, Turbo will address the issue of bullying. Since Turbo acts different, he understands the importance of accepting each other’s differences. He wants the children to know that if they are being bullied or know someone who is being bullied that it is okay to talk to a grownup they know about the situation or how they feel, like a teacher, a family member, or even a police officer. The police officers are always there to help keep them safe.

The final review of all the safety lessons learned will happen at the end of the program when the children participate in a trivia game. The children will be divided into two teams. They will be given different scenarios and asked to think about the lessons they learned during the assembly. Together the children will have lots of fun coming up with the right answers. The program will close with Turbo saying goodbye to the students and thanking everyone in attendance that made this safety assembly possible including the officers and teachers. The Rockford Police Department and The Officer Phil Program also would like to thank all of the businesses in the community who participate in the program.

As a post assembly activity for a job well done, teachers, parents and children will be encouraged to go to the website officerphil.com and request additional materials. There are some supplemental materials and other fun things that will reinforce the lessons taught in the program and in the activity books the children receive after the program.  If you would like more information about having the Officer Phil Program visit your local schools please contact Creative Safety Products by email at customerservice@officerphil.com or by phone at 1-888-825-7445.

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy
Municipal Tax Reform Cuts Red Tape, Grows Economy

Of the many steps we have taken to improve Ohio’s economic situation, our latest effort involved making serious reforms to the way municipalities collect income taxes. House Bill 5, which passed the legislature at the end of the previous General Assembly, was signed by the governor and will go into effect this spring. The new approach to municipal income tax collection is paving the way for economic growth and more jobs for Ohioans.

Under the previous tax structure, around 600 different municipalities utilized more than 300 different tax forms to file and process their municipal income tax. Complications from this system created numerous obstacles for business, often requiring them to spend more time and money on preparing the tax forms than the actual tax levied against the business.

This situation illustrates a perfect example of how government can obstruct economic growth and job creation. It also shows how leaders can identify and solve these complex problems for the betterment of all.

The legislature took the appropriate steps to remedy this problem by creating uniform due dates, withholding requirements, and procedures for audits and appeals. All of this simplifies navigation of the municipal income tax system for employers, letting them do what they do best—grow and create more jobs.

This legislation also makes Ohio more competitive in relation to neighboring states. Businesses looking to relocate to Ohio or expand their operations into the state were deterred from coming by the significant flaws of the system. Now, simplification of our tax system will provide even more incentives to bring jobs back inside Ohio’s borders.

Under the leadership of Governor Kasich we are working to improve the climate for job growth in Ohio.  These reforms make substantial improvements and progress to grow our economy and put people back to work. We will continue to cut red tape and get government out of the way of business growth and development.

 
January 13, 2015
 

Parkway Schools are on a two hour delay for Tuesday, January 13, 2015

Parkway Junior High Girls Basketball Team will play at Spencerville on January 26th at 5 PM
(Make-up game from January 8th cancellation)

 
January 12, 2015
 

Parkway Schools are now closed for Monday, January 12, 2015

At 4:43 AM, Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reported slick road conditions and advises motorists to use caution while driving; Monday Morning , January 12, 2015

Parkway Schools are on a two hour delay for Monday, January 12, 2015
Icy conditions are reported due to a storm passing through.

Thank you to Chatt Insurance, our Weather Sponsor!

 
January 10-11, 2015
 

At 6:18 PM, Mercer county Sheriff Jeff Grey reported slick road conditions and advises motorists to use caution while driving; Sunday Evening , January 11, 2015

Blind Date Band to Perform Tribute Concert on January 10

Take a trip down memory lane at the Rockford Belle on Saturday, January 10, 2015 as local band “Blind Date” delivers a performance reminiscent of bygone years with their expansive range of music. A tribute concert highlighting music by Neil Diamond, Glen Campbell, and Johnny Rivers will start at 7 pm with doors open at 6 pm. The band will also perform Gospel and many Patriotic songs. Soloist Shannon Wagner will make a return visit to open for the event. A free-will offering is accepted.  The public is invited to attend the entertainment venue at 135 Market Street, Rockford, OH. 

Re-live the experience of 60’s/70’s music when “Blind Date” revs up the night with featured five-piece band members: Dan Schoen, Rick Temple, Mike Bruns, Kent Krogman, and newest addition from Chicago - John Lessick. Band members have been around! They have the experience to take you back to a time when the greatest bands made music; a time of music that offered songs you could sing along with, and dance to, and music you fell in love with.  The Belle welcomes the band back and invites all listeners who have enjoyed “Blind Date” outdoor performances during the annual Sock Hop & Cruise-In held in Rockford.

Parkway Local School District music teacher and vocalist, Shannon Wagner, plans to open the event and entertain by singing hits by various female artists such as Carrie Underwood, Anne Murray, Donna Summer and Adelle.

Wagner has performed for the last 9 years at the annual Rockford Lions Club Variety Show, headlined with Paula Linn for the 100th year anniversary of the Chatt Picnic, and was invited to sing “Our National Anthem” at Eldora for Monster Jam and the World 100 this year.
  
Shannon is now in her 10th year of teaching at Parkway and is the K-8 music and choir director. New adventures abound for her and the students she teaches! This fall, she directed the first Middle School Musical, "Into the Woods, Jr.” She also took her Middle School choir to the Komet Hockey game where they sang "Our National Anthem."

Prior to teaching music to Middle School students, Wagner  taught High School Choir, Show Choir (Karizzma) and Chamber Choir. She directed seven musicals: Into the Woods (full version), Music Man, Once Upon a Mattress, M*A*S*H, Wonka, Cheaper by the Dozen, and The King and I.

Wagner is happily married to her husband, Andy, for 11 years. She has two daughters and three sons.

Mark your calendars for January 10 and rekindle bygone memories when Blind Date Band and Shannon Wagner perform at the Rockford Belle! For more information call Tom Rogers at 567-644-9993.

Funeral Arrangements for Forest "Woody" Roebuck at Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home are now posted - Click Here

 
January 9, 2015
 

Parkway Schools are on a two hour delay for Friday, January 9, 2015

PARKWAY LOCAL BOARD Of EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING  ~ January 13, 2015 - 6:45 PM
AND Organizational Meeting at 6:30 PM
Click Here for the Agendas from Superintendent  Puthoff

The Parkway JH Boys Basketball game at Versailles has been rescheduled for Monday, February 2 at 5 PM.

Girls - Step Into Your Future!

If you know a 7th or 8th grade girl living within the Vantage district, show them this article!

Vantage is hosting a really cool, hands-on adventure for girls in the 7th and 8th grade on Saturday morning, January 31, 2015 from 8:30 am – 12:30 pm.  Spend the morning at Vantage having fun and learning some new skills.

Learn how to weld together pieces of metal to create a beautiful dragonfly sculpture in the Welding lab.  Use a tape measure, drill, hammer, and nails in the Carpentry lab to build a stepstool.  Check out the latest GPS technology in the Ag lab.  Be one of the lucky ones to try on Google glasses, 3D virtual reality, and motion capture in the Network Systems lab.  A light breakfast, lunch, and a T-shirt are provided AND you get to take home everything you create!  Best of all, it’s FREE!

To register, go to the Vantage website – www.vantagecareercenter.com – and click on the pink “Step Into Your Future” footsteps, or you can email your information to klinger.a@vantagecareercenter.com.

HURRY – space is limited to the first 40 students who register by January 23, 2015.

CAPTION:

Pictured are some of the 2013 participants from “Step Into Your Future” with their metalwork pieces.

 
January 8, 2015
 

At 8:46 PM on January 8, the Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey issued a Level One Snow Alert
for all unincorporated areas of the County.
Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow.
Use extreme caution while driving.

Parkway Schools went on a two hour delay for Thursday, January 8, 2015
then cancelled due to wind chill warnings in the area.
The temperature was -4 early this morning, and remains at -2 midmorning.
The wind chill was reported at -21.

Junior High Boys and Girls Basketball Games are cancelled for Thursday, January 8, 2015.

Boys JV and Varsity Basketball team will practice from 3PM to 5PM on Thursday, January 8, 2015.

All grades 3-6 basketball practices are cancelled for Thursday, January 8, 2015.

Parkway Schools announces a two hour delay
for Thursday, January 8, 2015 due to predicted low wind chill factors.
Thank you to Chatt Insurance, our Weather Sponsor!

Grand Lake Patriots Cancel Meeting Due to Weather

The Grand Lake Patriots’ general meeting that was planned for tomorrow (Thursday, January 8) is being cancelled due to the prediction of foul weather conditions. We hope to reschedule the editor/owner of The Daily Standard, Frank Snyder, to speak at another monthly meeting.

The group’s February meeting will feature Shawn Meyer, senior pastor of Aletheia Christian Church in Celina, who will speak on the topic of pastoral freedom of speech from the pulpit.  Further details will be forthcoming in the weeks ahead.

 Saturday, January 24, 2015 – Athletic Hall of Fame Induction to be held
between JV & Varsity Boys Basketball games versus Bradford

Additional Inductee Added to List  of Three to Receive
Parkway Athletic Hall of Fame

BETH (HUNZIKER) BLACK to be Inducted as 4^th Recipient

Beth (Hunziker) Black

Class of 1991

Beth earned four varsity letters in Basketball.  The Girls Basketball program recorded 63 wins during her four year career.  Beth led the 1989-90 and 1990-91 teams to a Sectional Championship in Basketball.  She currently holds many school records in Basketball at Parkway High School.  Beth is currently the All-Time scoring leader with 1,547 points.  She is also the leader in career three point field goals made with 75 and threes made in a season with 47 her freshmen year.  Beth holds the school record for steals in a career with 339.  She recorded 12 steals in a game which is also a record at Parkway.  Beth is currently the career leader in points per game (17.5), offensive rebounds in a career (318), and field goals made in a season (179).   She is the current career leader in free throws made with 228, and free throws attempted with 370.   Beth currently ranks ninth in career scoring in the Midwest Athletic Conference.

THE HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2015 INCLUDES MIKE SCHUMM, GALEN SCHUMM, AND ROGER CRAFT.  

THE HALL OF FAME CEREMONY WILL TAKE PLACE IN BETWEEN THE JV AND VARSITY BOYS GAME ON JANUARY 24TH. 

The public is invited to this event.

Click Here to read the profile on the other three former Parkway Stand-outs.

 
January 7, 2015
 

Parkway Schools announces a two hour delay
for Wednesday, January 7, 2015 due to predicted low wind chill factors.

Preventing Falls This Winter

Did you know that falls are the number one cause of injury-related hospitalization and death among people 65 and older? Many of us did not worry about the risk of falling when we were young. We knew that if we fell, we’d get up with the assumption that the aches and pains were temporary.

But for those of us at a higher risk, such as elders, pregnant women, or those already suffering from a previous injury, a fall can be a life-altering event.

For seniors like me, the effects of a fall can take away our independence in our everyday lives. It can cause us to suffer in our physical and emotional health. Seeing as this problem not only affects the individual, but those around them as well, fall prevention should be a group effort. Individuals, families and businesses alike all need to do what we can to lower the risk of falls at home and in public places.

The simplest step one can take is to know which risk factors to look for. The Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that fall risks include advanced age, history of previous falls, muscle weakness, gait and balance problems, poor vision, chronic medical conditions like arthritis, and fear of falling. Others include obstacles and tripping hazards, slippery or uneven surfaces, lack of stair handrails, dim lighting or glare, lack of bathroom grab bars, use of certain medications, and improper use of assistive devices like walkers or canes.

Specific steps managers of public buildings can consider include putting signs up to warn customers about areas in their store that are more susceptible to falls and to make sure that there are no obstructions in the aisles that people could trip on. Outside the building, managers should consider making sure that the entrance is free of ice and snow so that people don’t slip on the way in. Business owners should consider advising employees to always make sure that they offer help to customers, especially to the elderly or disabled customers.

However, the responsibility of prevention does not only lie with business owners or caregivers, but the individual at risk as well.

You can work to prevent falls by following some simple, common-sense steps. Some of these steps include getting hearing and vision checks each year, removing fall hazards around your living space, and letting someone know if you do fall. Even if you’re not hurt, it’s important to tell someone, especially an employee if you’re in a store, so they can correct the problem. To learn more about preventing falls you can visit www.steadyu.ohio.gov.

Steady U is part of an effort by Governor Kasich and the Ohio Department of Aging to increase awareness about the hazards of falling. The website is a valuable resource for all of my fellow elders and their caregivers concerned about the risks of falling.

We all have the power to reduce the risk of falling. It may require some added diligence in our day-to-day routine, but this extra effort is worthwhile when weighed against the cost of an unfortunate fall.

    Parkway January 2015 Calendar of Events by Lisa Miller

Sunday January 25th, 2015
Celina Senior High School
715 East Wayne St

Drop off dresses & accessories from 11:00-12:30
SHOP from 1:00-4:00
*for faster drop off- download release form at celinaschools.org
COST:
$7.00 to sell dress only
$2.00 per accessory (ex: shoes, bracelet, earrings etc)
$10.00 to sell dress and 2 accessories
(Sellers set their own price and keep their profit!)

Pick up money or unsold dress from 4:00-4:45
Early drop off can be available by calling 419-953-0842 or 419-953-6563
Beautiful dresses at a great price!!!

Proceeds go to the Celina High School After-Prom
 

 
January 6, 2015
 

Parkway Schools went on a two hour delay for Tuesday, January 6, 2015 due to several inches of snow overnight.

The Village of Rockford Council meeting for tonight (January 6) has been
canceled.   The next meeting is scheduled for January 20th at 7:30 pm.

Bicentennial Meeting Announcement 

The next meeting for the planning stages of the Rockford Bicentennial Celebration will be held in the village hall on Monday - January 19th, at 7 pm.  At this meeting, we will continue forming committees that will begin working on specific plans.  Everyone is invited to attend the meeting and share your ideas for the celebration.  If you can not attend the meeting but would like to help, you can contact the town office at 419-363-3032.

Lady Panthers Spaghetti Dinner

New Year’s Baby 2015

Pictured with his parents, Beth and Chad Otte of Celina, is Mercer Health’s New Year’s Baby 2015, Beau Otte.  Beau, born at 6:29 a.m. on Sunday, January 4th, was the recipient of a Sherpa blanket and $100 gift certificate to the Celina-Mercer County Chamber of Commerce.

Beer Barrel Pizza Hosting Community Fundraiser

Beer Barrel Pizza is having a fundraiser for the Girl Scout Family Partnership Fund on Monday, January 12, 2015 from 5 to 8 pm at 1200 Indiana Avenue, St. Marys, OH.

Beer Barrel will donate 10% of the sales of receipts collected during this timeframe to Girl Scouts of Western Ohio.

 
January 5, 2015
 

Advisory: Winter Storm Watch is in effect for Mercer County Monday evening, January 5 through Tuesday morning January 6; expect 4-6 inches of snow. Travel with care.

National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch from late Monday evening through Tuesday morning. Expected hazards are 4-6 inches of snow accumulation. 

Please be aware of changing conditions and use caution when traveling. 

A weather watch indicates the potential for severe or damaging weather conditions.

Thank you to our Weather Sponsor ~ Chatt Insurance.

Rockford Chamber of Commerce Minutes by Lisa Kuhn

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

Parkway FFA Participates in Parli Pro

On Tuesday November 25th, Parkway FFA had two JV teams and one Varity team participate in sub-district Parliamentary Procedure contest. The first JV team consisted of Maggie Houts, Shay Pond, Audrey Hague, Austin Smith, Cole Schoenleben, Alexis Frank, Trace Walls and Justin Barna placing 4th. The second JV team considered of Clista Hellwarth, Cooper Clouse, Wyatt Tuttle, Garrett Henderson, Maddie Ford, Halie Hileman, Seth Secaur, and Raymond Wood placing 5th. The varsity Parliamentary Procedure team consisted of Kayla Walls, Terra Walls, Taylor Hesse, Madison Roehm, Tanner Matthews, Clista Hellwarth, Alec Schoenleben, and Maggie Houts placing 1st. The varsity Parli Pro team was able to move on to the district contest on Thursday December 4th and placed 1st again. Placing 1st allows our varsity team to move on to state if they choose.

Congratulations to all of the members who participated and great work!

Varsity

Team 1

Team 2

Grand Lake Patriots to Host The Daily Standard Editor/Owner Frank Snyder

The Grand Lake Patriots will host Frank Snyder, owner and editor of The Daily Standard, Celina, at their Thursday, January 8 general membership meeting, beginning at 7 PM in the Lefeld Community Building at the Fairgrounds in Celina. Patriots and their guests are cordially invited to attend. Snyder will speak about 1st Amendment freedoms, running a small town newspaper, government regulations, and how Obamacare will affect the newspaper business. Time will be allotted for questions and answers.

Snyder grew up in Celina and lives in the community with his family. He has a degree in economics. His father was owner and editor of The Daily Standard before him. 

Parkway January 2015 Breakfast & Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Remember the Rockford Eagles Fish Fry and Chicken Strips Dinners
on Friday, January 9, 2015 from 5-7 PM.
Members and Guests only. Good Food! See ad above for details.

 
January 2-4, 2015
 

Some additional items have been added to the museum in Rockford. A butter churn from the late Velma Schumm and her old sewing machine. The have, on display, the piano from the Grand Ballroom on South Main Street. They also acquired a poster advertising a carnaval in Rockford in August of 1939 featuring a parachute jumper from Ft. Wayne.

 
January 1, 2015 - Happy New Year!
 

Financial Aid Night at Parkway

On Wednesday, January 7th, at 6:30 p.m. there will be an informational meeting on Financial Aid for College at Parkway High School Community Room.  Mrs. Melanie Weaver, Financial Aid Director from Ohio Northern University, will discuss how to finance a college education including completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).  Several relevant handouts will be distributed at this meeting. Juniors, seniors, and their parents are encouraged to attend.  Only 2015 graduates can fill out the FAFSA form in 2015, however many past juniors and their parents have enjoyed the opportunity to learn earlier about the financial aid process.

PERI MEETING

MERCER CO PERI MEETING

JAN. 13, 2015

Mary Beougher Public Relations, Community Health Professionals of Celina who Serve all of Mercer County, will be the Program Speaker for the January 13, 2015 PERI Meeting at the Hopewell Grange Hall, at the Mercer County Fairgrounds.  The PERI Meeting will begin at 10:00 A.M.  Donuts, coffee and juice will be served at 9:30 for early birds.

This program is an important program for Seniors, and/or anyone who is responsible for people with some type of disability.  The Community Health Professionals have a beautiful home atmosphere where persons who need some type of help are able to spend the day, and to participate in a variety of activities, or to enjoy quiet time and read a book or enjoy the companionship of others.  Professional employees are available to serve the guests, whatever their needs are.  Sometimes, the public is not aware that this service is available to help with people who have special needs at any particular time.  Mary Beoughter has worked with this organization for years, and she will be able to answer just about any question you ask.

For those of you who are retired Public Employees, and are thinking about becoming Mercer County PERI Members, come to this program and enjoy the companionship of other retirees, while you are learning all of the opportunities available for Public Employee retirees.  There is no cost to attend the meetings.  Start this New Year off on the right path and come and listen to Mary Beougher’s Program.

Genealogy Chapter to Meet

Sunday, January 11th at 2:00 the Mercer County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society will meet at the Richardson Bretz Building located behind the library in Celina.  The program is a round table discussion that will benefit the beginner and accomplished genealogist alike.  The topic is “Bring your finds, questions and problems”.   Members and guests are invited to share any problems or finds including computer programs, web sites and technology useful in researching family history.  The meetings are free and the public is always welcome.

Art At Portland

ArtWorks classes begin January 12th at the Portland Center and The Collective Center.MusicWorks classes begin January 5th.

Scholarships are available for both programs!

Call for more information! 866-539-9911

Niswonger Performing Arts Center will host Christian Act

On Saturday, March 14 at 7:30 PM the wildly popular, Christian recording artists Newsboys! Will share a wonderful concert hot off their God’s Not Dead project where the song "God's Not Dead" is a tremendous hit. Call 419-238-NPAC

OUR OLD BOOK CASE

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

Photo caption:  Santa has gifts for you at the Mercer County Historical Museum, the Riley Home.

Merry Christmas, to all of our old Friends of the Mercer County Historical Society, and to all of our new Friends which we will meet in 2015. 

As for Christmas gifts, the young think in terms of “What gifts do I want to receive for Christmas?”  The adults think in terms of “What gifts do I want to give for Christmas?”  Therefore, as an adult, I will share with you, what gifts the Mercer County Historical Society gives to you each year. 

The most obvious image of the Mercer County Historical Society is the Mercer County building, the Mercer County Historical Museum, the Riley Home.  On May 27, 1975, the Mercer County Commissioners passed “Resolution # 438:  Resolved that the Board of Mercer County Commissioners do hereby agree to purchase a home for the Mercer County Historical Society, at 130 East Market St., Celina.”   

Therefore, thank the Mercer County Commissioners for this 1975 Gift which is still a Gift.

Another continuing Gift to the public, is the conservation (care) of the permanent exhibits at this County Museum.  The care of updating the Archival Collections of local history resources is an on-going project.  Another Gift is all of the guided tours provided to public organizations, and private tourists.  Another Gift is the Temporary Exhibits, e.g. High School Basketball History, Mothers Day, Prehistoric Artifacts, Military & Antique Guns, and Post Card and Post Office exhibits.   Another Gift is the daily public service to Mercer Countians and those in other counties or states, in the email requests receiving responses for historical research, which is quite a time-consuming task.  Another Gift is the public speaking engagements about local history, for local service organizations.  The Gift of assisting teachers and university students in their Historical Projects will contribute to better citizens of this County.

Another long lasting Gift, the Society has provided would be the 28 local history books published by the Mercer County Historical Society these past four decades.  At the present, there are three local history books in progress, all for the purpose of preserving local history for the public.  Another Gift is the weekly local history articles, “Our Old Bookcase,” which finds its way into many local scrapbooks.

All of these projects happen because Members of the Mercer County Historical Society, and the designated Committees who plan and implement these projects.  Thank you to those Committee Members. Thank you to all of the Members of the Mercer County Historical Society.  Thank you for all of the donors to the Combined Drives in our Communities, to help the Historical Society provide these services.  Thank you to the Mercer County Maintenance Men who care for the Maintenance of the building and grounds.  An organization as large as the Mercer County Historical Society deserves recognition for serving the public for over 55  years, in preserving our local history.

Now, I would like to request a Gift from you, to the Mercer County Historical Society.  Please recognize that the Mercer County Historical Museum is an educational institution, as cared for by the Mercer County Historical Society.  The Museum is never to be a political institution.  Please recognize that it is the responsibility of every citizen, every educational institution, every civic organization, and every business, to thank the Mercer County Commissioners for funding this beautiful County Museum.  If the Museum is closed for good, that is a sad day for yesterday, today, and tomorrow’s Mercer Countians.

Merry Christmas to each of you and May 2015 be a great year for your County Historical Museum.

Ridder and Neth Families Celebrate Birth of Baby Girl
Ryan and Brandi (Ridder) Neth joyfully announce the birth of their daughter, Madison Jean Neth, born on December 7, 2014 at 4:37 pm at Providence Hospital in Waco, Texas. Madison was 7 pounds, 4 ounces and 21.5 inches long. 

Proud Grandparents are Peggy and Doug Serviss, of Rockford, Ohio, Jill and Glen Bradley of Waco, Texas, and the late Keith Ridder. 

Click Here for More Births

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy

A Very Merry Christmas for Ohioans

Once again, the Christmas season is upon us. This year, many households in Ohio are poised to have a better Christmas than in years past. We have worked hard over this past year to put people back to work and in positions to provide for their families.

Earlier in the fall the state unemployment rate was 5.3 percent, down nearly two whole points from the same time last year. In western Ohio that number is closer to 4 percent.  More and more people are finding gainful employment, which is great news when it comes time to putting the presents under the tree.

We have to also reduce taxes so hardworking Ohioans can focus on stuffing stockings for their children rather than stuffing government coffers. I know and believe that money is best kept in the people’s hands rather than taken away for someone else to determine how a person’s hard earned wages should be spent.

Speaking of spending those wages, the biggest retail season of the year is coming to an end.  In order to prepare for Christmas, many families have been saving money over the course of the year.  In doing so they have been thinking about the presents to purchase for loved ones.  Throughout that process the spirit of giving has been invoked.  Ultimately looking back we will all be most appreciative of the time we had together with friends and family.

In the past couple of years under the leadership of Governor John Kasich, many Ohio families have enjoyed better holiday seasons with fewer worries about how the bills will be paid. The new year promises continued policies that promote smaller government with a focus on less red tape and bureaucracy.

In west central Ohio we have the best place in the world to live, work and rear a family.  I will continue working to protect the way we live and promote the good hearts of our people locally.

I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Click Here for Van Wert County Common Pleas Court Cases Heard for December 2014

 
December 27-31, 2014
 

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

Parkway Wrestling Team Hosts First Tournament

Celina Moving and Storage Mental Attitude Award: Tristen McKee, Parkway
Celina Moving and Storage Most Valuable Player: Kyreesce Little, Elyria

Team score:
Findlay: 214.08
Versailles: 194.58
Elyria: 175.5
Elida: 124.5
Wapakoneta: 121.0
Hicksville: 95.75
Celina: 78.75
Parkway: 68.5
Toledo Christian: 48.58
Riverside: 10.0

Final Results Panther Invitational 2014:

113:

Devontae Bowens, Elyria

Scott Seiler, Elyria

Armon Haver, Hicksville

Reese Fokine, Parkway

Tristen McKee, Parkway

120:

Seth Douglas, Findlay

Liam Morrison, Findlay

Josh Kurtz, Elyria

Nick Garwood, Celina

Andrew Ford, Parkway

Andrew Purtee, Elida

126:

Donnie Emmons, Findlay

Lane Feltz, Versailles

Jacob Brown, Wapakoneta

Jordan Lueffler, Toledo Christian

132:

Kyreesce Little, Elyria

C. Brown, Elida

Kyle Wuebker, Versailles

Morgan Miller, Hicksville

Jacob Gaudy, Elida

Cameron Hicks, Versailles

138 :

Mike Filiaggi, Elyria

Dru Hernandez, Findlay

Adam Hemel, Wapakoneta

Josiah Maclin, Findlay

Dorin Dean, Wapakoneta

Chris Martin, Hicksville

145:

Philip Karacson, Hicksville

Jarrod Wagner, Versailles

Thomas Griewe, Wapakoneta

Kodi Schmidt, Celina

Alex Schlotter, Celina

Pim Phadphom, Findlay

152:

Michael Geist, Toledo Christian

Ethan Arbogast, Elida

Seth Barge, Versailles

Loren Couch, Findlay

Zach Vogal, Celina

Cam Wieman, Wapakoneta

160:

Wyatt Patton, Findlay

Tim Ferrell, Celina

Noah Joseph, Parkway

Joel Turpen, Versailles

Hunter Sidey, Wapakoneta

Blake Sacks, Riverside

170:

Kylan Kuehl, Wapakoneta

Chase Owen, Findlay

Gavin Bolin, Versailles

Joey Bower, Findlay

Sean Besecker, Versailles

182:

Desmond White, Elida

Justin Besecker, Versailles

Larry Burkhardt, Toledo Christian

Marquis Landers, Findlay

Kenny Mincer, Versailles

195:

Dylan Woodings, Elyria

Brett Gigandet, Versailles

Joshua Puthoff, Parkway

Garrett Miller, Hicksville

Steven Gardner, Hicksville

Josh Houston, Celina

220:

Ethan Rhodes, Versailles

Shelton Foltz, Elida

Danny Captin

285:

Antonio Wyatt, Elyria

Jeffrey Ware, Versailles

Girls - Step Into Your Future!

If you know a 7th or 8th grade girl living within the Vantage district, show them this article!

Vantage is hosting a really cool, hands-on adventure for girls in the 7th and 8th grade on Saturday morning, January 31, 2015 from 8:30 am – 12:30 pm.  Spend the morning at Vantage having fun and learning some new skills.

Learn how to weld together pieces of metal to create a beautiful dragonfly sculpture in the Welding lab.  Use a tape measure, drill, hammer, and nails in the Carpentry lab to build a stepstool.  Check out the latest GPS technology in the Ag lab.  Be one of the lucky ones to try on Google glasses, 3D virtual reality, and motion capture in the Network Systems lab.  A light breakfast, lunch, and a T-shirt are provided AND you get to take home everything you create!  Best of all, it’s FREE!

To register, go to the Vantage website – www.vantagecareercenter.com – and click on the pink “Step Into Your Future” footsteps, or you can email your information to klinger.a@vantagecareercenter.com.

HURRY – space is limited to the first 40 students who register by January 23, 2015.

CAPTION:

Pictured are some of the 2013 participants from “Step Into Your Future” with their metalwork pieces.

County Gateway Landscaping Program

The interchange at US 30 westbound with US 127/224 ( a.k.a the WalMart exit) has a new look.  Phase One of the County Gateway Landscaping Program that was started last fall through The Ohio Department of Transportation, ODOT, made impressive strides this weekend revealing a beacon to traffic on US 30 that will help draw attention to Van Wert.

“There are many grants available throughout the grant database nationwide that focus on gateway projects.  Recognizing the importance of a community identifying itself at its "gateway" is essential in an environment where communities are competing for talent and striving to set the bar high to be recognized as a place where people want to live and work.  It also welcomes people to a community allowing it to say, "here we are,”  which, with the growing traffic count on US 30, is a huge asset we can utilize to try and convince some of that traffic into exiting here, grabbing a bite to eat or filling with gas, and even staying a while.  Maybe if they like it enough, they might even bring their family or business here,” offers Economic Development Director, Sarah Smith. 

The idea began with Smith’s husband who was traveling I-75 to Wright Patterson AFB daily.  Towns like Troy and Sidney had a presence on I-75.  In the opposite direction, many Van Wert residents are familiar with the Findlay exit on I-75 who was awarded a similar $20k ODOT grant in 2007 through the Hancock Regional Planning Commission.  The goal was to replicate the same concept on US 30 allowing Van Wert to standout to passersby.    

Unfortunately, the money awarded by ODOT only covers materials, not design and labor.  So, the process began with asking for local landscaping volunteers to donate their time to help with the design.  Sam Laurent of Van Wert - Laurent's Landscaping and Clint Gable - Elite Naturescapes, Delphos helped assist with the planning that initially included both sides of the interchange at US 30/US 127 however, the project total exceeded the maximum grant amount of $25k.  The project had to be cut in half.  Ideally, if it project goes well and the ODOT money or a similar program is available, the south side will be completed in the next fiscal round.  The north side was chosen because it's the side you see as you exit into Van Wert.

Elite Naturescapes was able to answer the ODOT bid and is providing the majority of materials.  The site prep and labor has been all volunteer with well over 100 hours at the interchange on weekends and in the evenings after work to make it happen.  It’s been a difficult year with all the rain received which hasn’t particularly helped with timeliness of the project.  

Lots of work remains to be done.  Spring will blossom a flower bed location parallel to US 127 in the west portion of the interchange adding color and presence on US 127.  All of the dead and dying trees were removed (thanks to Shannon Smith - Smith's Stump Removal) in the interchange. Future plans are to move the trees into a pattern (hopefully a VW) to provide a recognizable aerial view from a google earth shot or for someone flying over if the 30 X 30 logo mound isn’t noticeable enough for a small aircraft flying over.  The creek that runs through will be dipped and lined with river rock giving a clean, dry riverbed look eliminating the cat tails and weeds that are more difficult to control.  Finally, there will be flowering trees placed amongst the interchange to provide a splash of color at different seasons and inviting motorists into Van Wert for the many festivals and events we have through the year.  
 
The logo mound with the center emblem of the Van Wert County Logo is a design that can be replicated possibly being placed at all the Van Wert county interchanges.  Smith revealed, “it would be an option to play with the color scheme and possibly replicate it in red and black outside Delphos Jefferson, yellow and blue at the Middle Point exit, red-white-and blue - going into Convoy?  The goal of the project is to mark Van Wert County letting people know when they are here, if the windmills don't do it already.  But, we also had to consider the maintenance of the project.  The design was to be low maintenance suggesting flowers and plants that require little pruning, making the logo design something that could be mowed easier and selecting the river rock creek bed to keep that clean, groomed look year round.”  The County offers special thanks to Mitch Kraner and county employees Tim Mengerink and Kyle Gehres who all donated time on their off hours to help make this possible.   
 
Any companies looking to sponsor the interchange or help with the next interchange should call the Van Wert County Economic Development Office - 419-238-6159.  Mowing will start in the spring and local involvement is sought in the maintenance of the interchange.  It not only provides for a sense of pride and ownership toward Van Wert County, it can serve as a little advertising as well.  

Get Fit in January
As a health care leader, Mercer Health is pleased to offer the only Weight Management Center in the area.  Mercer Health’s Weight Management Center offers both surgical and non-surgical weight loss programs, and is proud to announce that patients of these programs have lost over 4,000 pounds!

The Mercer Health Weight Management Center will be offering several programs in January to help the community with their weight-related New Year’s resolutions.  The following programs are now available through Mercer Health’s Weight Management Center:

1)      Rev It Up!® Weight Management is a 9-week interactive lifestyle program led by our registered dietitian that covers topics such as behavior modification, hunger and fullness signals, fluid needs, meal timing, aerobic exercise, and more. The next 9-week session begins January 14.

2)      The Medifast® Program offers a structured meal plan that incorporates specially formulated Medifast meal replacement and snack products to achieve a low calorie, low carbohydrate diet.  Participants are required to attend an introduction class.  The next classes will be held January 5 and January 26, or is also available online at www.mercer-health.com and can be viewed anytime!

3)      The LAP-BAND® weight loss surgery program continues to grow, and is now accepting Medicare patients!  The required informational seminar will be held on January 6 and February 3 or is now available online anytime at www.mercer-health.com. 

4)      The MedGem Indirect Calorimeter is a handheld device that determines an individual’s resting metabolic rate.  This test also includes an interpretation with a registered dietitian to determine an appropriate caloric level for weight loss.  Tests are scheduled on a patient by patient basis.

All programs are now taking registrations.  Limited space is available.  Begin your weight loss journey today, and join in the success of our patients.  For more information or to register for an upcoming program, contact the Mercer Health Weight Management Center at 419-678-8446.

Flu Widespread Across Ohio;

Flu-Related Hospitalizations Increasing Rapidly

ODH Urges Flu Vaccination as Ohio Approaches Peak Flu Season

COLUMBUS – Influenza-like illness is now widespread throughout Ohio, and the numbers of associated

hospitalizations are increasing rapidly. Last week alone (week 50), there were 529 new confirmed

influenza-associated hospitalizations in Ohio, bringing the total to 985 since flu season began in October.

Just two weeks ago, there were 202 total confirmed flu-associated hospitalizations. At this time during

last year’s flu season, there were 216.

Ohio also has its second confirmed influenza-associated pediatric death, a 16-year-old boy from Licking

County. This is a reminder of the danger flu poses to children.

“Influenza vaccination is the safest and most effective way to prevent the flu, except for infants younger

than 6 month old who aren’t eligible to receive it,” said Dr. Mary DiOrio, medical director of the Ohio

Department of Health (ODH).

The 2014-2015 flu season, which likely will continue into next spring, may be severe according to the

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Influenza A (H3N2) is the predominant virus strain this

year, and hospitalizations and deaths are higher when it is dominant.

“Many people have probably heard about this year’s flu vaccine not being as effective because of

mutations in some influenza viruses,” said Dr. DiOrio. “I cannot emphasize strongly enough that it’s still

very important to get vaccinated. The vaccine provides some protection against mutated viruses and

maximum protection against other circulating influenza strains for which the vaccine remains wellmatched.”

While vaccination provides the greatest protection against the flu, other effective ways to avoid getting

or spreading it include: washing hands frequently or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer; covering coughs

and sneezes with tissues, or coughing or sneezing into elbows; avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth;

and staying home when sick and until fever-free for 24 hours without using fever-reducing medication.

“These practices are especially important with flu activity increasing and family and friends gathering for

the holidays,” noted Dr. DiOrio.

Symptoms of influenza can include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.

Flu vaccination is available at most healthcare providers’ offices, local health departments and retail pharmacies.

While influenza-associated pediatric deaths must be reported to ODH, adult deaths are not reportable so total influenza-associated death statistics are not available. More information about influenza and flu activity in Ohio is available at www.flu.ohio.gov.

OUR OLD BOOK CASE

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

Does History repeat itself?  That is the lesson that our high school history teachers tried to teach us.

I thought that I would check histories of events of winters in Mercer County’s past, and decide if history is, indeed, repeating itself in Mercer County.

In January of 1856, the weather was so cold, at a temperature of minus twenty degrees, that the local newspaper, The Western Standard published by the Snyder Brothers, had to thaw out the paper, before they could print the newspaper!  The Snyder family today is hoping that history does not repeat itself!

The weather took its toll on Celina’s old school house, which “fell down,” on February 15, 1857.  No classes were in session that day, because it was Sunday.  That history has not repeated itself.

During the winter of 1875-1876, a trip from Celina to St. Marys, via the plank road, took four hours.  That history should not be repeating itself, as the trip this winter should take about ten minutes, except for a possible blizzard closing the road?

The winter of 1920-1921 was so cold that the lake froze to more than eight inches of ice.  M. J. Hemmert reported the big ice house at the foot of South Main Street was filled with ice of crystal clearness.  A good ice harvest was five thousand tons packed in straw and sawdust, and would be delivered to homes for their ice boxes, in the summertime.  Ice skating on the lake was a popular sport.  History is not repeating itself, with filling the old ice houses.  Do young people still ice skate on the lake?

The January 1930 flood waters were said to have been higher than in 1913, and the local reservoir was over its banks.  Farmers along the Beaver Creek suffered livestock loss.  Almost a dozen farmers were forced to put their household on second floors of their homes and move in with relatives or neighbors.  In January 1937, twenty-five refugees were sent from the Cincinnati flood area to Celina. 

Of course, everyone remembers stories in the 1930’s about the depression and prohibition.  On January 21, 1932, raids were made on a sixty gallon still and jugs of whiskey “were seized.”   Is history repeating itself?  Are there “stills” in operation this winter in Mercer County?

On January 1, 1970, Celina’s Safety-Service Director Frank E. Sullivan praised Street Department personnel and their boss Tom Anderson for opening and keeping open the City’s streets after the eight and a half inch snowfall the last of December 1969.  A decade later, the Blizzard of January 1978 caused electrical outages and twelve to fifteen foot snow drifts.  How many blizzards have we had since 1978?

If anyone ever writes a book about the blizzards in Mercer County, there will be plenty of resource material!  I am concerned that history may not repeat itself, for recording local history in books and  authors providing the sources of their information.  Anything is put on the internet, with no reference to the source or the validity of that information.  I hope that future local historians provide the facts when putting local history articles on the internet. 

I can only repeat the historic adage, “Read not to believe or dis-believe, but to weigh and consider,” when reading articles about local history on the internet.

Photo caption:  Ice Skating & Ice Games on another Lake in the 1890’s.

 
December 23-26, 2014
 

Christmas Eve Service at 5 PM at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Mendon on Christmas Eve.

Christmas Eve Service at 6 PM at Praise Point Church in Willshire on Christmas Eve.

Christmas Eve Service at 11 PM at Rockford Methodist on Christmas Eve.

Chatt Methodist Church Christmas Eve Service at 10 PM  on Christmas Eve.

Mt. Tabor Church Series to Start
Mt Tabor Church of God will be launching a 4-week Sermon Series on the book, JESUS IS.  The Sermon Series will be launched on Sun, Jan. 4th at 10:00am!  All are invited to attend.  In the coming weeks, we will be learning that: Jesus is GRACE; Jesus is our FRIEND; Jesus is ALWAYS WITH US; and Jesus is ALIVE!  This will be a great event for those interested to learn who Jesus is!

See you at 10:00am on Sundays!

For more information check out: www.taborreach.org

 
December 20-22, 2014
 

Vantage Students Share the Christmas Spirit

Vantage junior and senior Health Technology students adopted a family for Christmas!  Here, some of the juniors show the gifts they bought. 

Vantage Health Technology students also visited the Country Inn Assisted Living and Nursing Home in Paulding to spread some holiday cheer.

 Baby Land Demolition
 
Wednesday afternoon at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds was bittersweet.  The building known as Baby Land came down to make way for the construction of a brand new Farm Bureau facility which will break ground later this week, weather pending.  The new facility will house much needed bathrooms and showers to replace the former Jr. Fair facilities.  In January, Farm Bureau will start a 60 day capital campaign to continue to raise funding for the new building estimated to cost between $200 - $300,000 dependent upon volunteer time and effort.  The intention is to have the new Farm Bureau facility complete and operational by summer, but more importantly before the 2015 Van Wert County Fair (VWCF) which begins Sept 2, 2015. 
Future plans are to reconstruct Baby Land in the location where the former Farm Bureau structure stood.  During the 2015 VWCF, the fair board is entertaining the option of a Baby Land tent in that location for the baby animal display until a new home for Baby Land can be built.  Anyone looking to donate to the efforts or volunteer services toward the cause may contact Van Wert County Farm Bureau or the Van Wert County fair board.     
  

Vantage Top Students for Fall 2014

VANTAGE Blue Chippers –Vantage Blue Chippers are students who have perfect attendance and a 4.0 GPA for a 9 week period.  Congratulations go out to the following Blue Chippers for the first quarter of the school year:  front row: Marcy Shoppell, Jr. Culinary Arts (Lincolnview), Valdalia Geren, Jr. Health Tech (Continental), Allie Mihm Jr. Culinary Arts (Van Wert).  Back row: Derek Schroeder, Sr. Precision Machining (Kalida), Jacob Sukup, Jr. Ag & Industrial Power Tech (Antwerp), Jonnathan Krouse, Jr. Network Systems (Crestview), and Nick Grote, Sr. Industrial Mechanics (Ottoville). 

Mercer Health Supports House of Hope

During this Giving Season, Mercer Health chose to support The House of Hope as part of their annual giving project.  As in the past, Mercer Health’s employees and partners, collected toiletry items and monetary donations.  The items were recently given to Tonya Huber, House of Hope representative.

Ohio State Highway Patrol Post Honors Brincefield and Scheirer

VAN WERT - The Van Wert Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol has named its Trooper of the Year and Dispatcher of the Year for 2014.

Trooper Adam M. Brincefield has been selected 2014 Trooper of the Year at the Van Wert Post.  Brincefield joined the Highway Patrol in 2003 and has served at the Patrol’s Training Academy in addition to the Van Wert Post.

Fellow officers stationed at the Van Wert Post, chose Brincefield, age 33, based on his leadership abilities, professional ethics, courteous treatment of others, enthusiastic work attitude, and cooperation with supervisors, peers, and the public.

Brincefield has been awarded the Patrol's Physical Fitness Award and the Safe Driving Award.  He also serves as a field training officer.  Brincefield enjoys participating in speech details and working with children. 

Brincefield and his family reside in Van Wert County.

Radio Dispatcher Meghan L. Scheirer has been recognized as the 2014 Dispatcher of the Year. Scheirer joined the Highway Patrol in 2013 and is assigned to the Van Wert Dispatch Center.  She is a graduate of Defiance High School and Defiance College.
 

Scheirer, age 35, was honored in recognition of her outstanding service over the past year.  Management and dispatchers/communications technicians chose Scheirer based on her technical job knowledge and ability, enthusiastic work attitude, teamwork, and prompt and courteous response to the public’s requests for information and assistance.

Schreirer and her family reside in Defiance County.

Both Brincefield and Scheirer are in contention for District and State honors as Trooper of the Year and Dispatcher of the Year. Those honors will be announced at later date.

A grant from The Van Wert County Foundation to 4-H Camp Palmer’s Pool

On December 12, 2014 Board meeting The Van Wert County Foundation Board of Trustees awarded a grant of $2,500.00 for the new swimming pool construction at 4-H Camp Palmer. The grant was made possible from the John Alpach Fund.

The new pool will be completed by the summer of 2015. Due to generous donors like The Van Wert County Foundation, grants, foundations, 4-H Clubs and many others over $300,000 of the $495,000 that will be needed to fund the project has been raised.

 If you would like to donate to the camp pool project or order a memorial brick, call 419-237-2247 or email 4hcamppalmer@gmail.com. 4-H Camp Palmer, a non-profit 501 ©3 organization, serves not only Van Wert County youth but also ten other counties in northwest Ohio.

Emergency Group CALENDAR OF EVENTS / PUBLIC MEETINGS

EMA Advisory Board Meeting

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

EMA Office           Celina                 12:05 PM

LEPC Meeting Has Been Scheduled for:

Thursday, January 8, 2015

Central Services Building  Celina            7:30 AM

            2nd Floor Conference Room

Any Questions: Contact the Mercer County EMA @ 419-586-6468

Thank you!

Parkway Weekly Sports Schedule
Click Here for a printable version

and

Plan Now to Attend the Chatt Insurance Holiday Tournament
on Monday December 29 and Tuesday December 30, 2014
Click here for the printable schedule

Caring for Your "Fresh-cut" Christmas Tree

By Curtis E. Young, Van Wert County OSU Extension Educator, Agriculture and Natural Resources

There appears to be a revived interest in using real Christmas trees for the holidays.  A real tree in the house adds to the ambience of the holidays with the scent of pine, spruce or fir wafting through the air.  However, real trees require special care to keep them safe and fresh to last through the holidays.

The following are research-based guidelines that will help you to maintain the freshness and aroma of a fresh-cut Christmas tree through the holidays.

Ultimately water is everything to maintaining a fresh-cut Christmas tree.  Doing whatever you can do to prevent a tree from losing excessive amounts of water is the goal from the time that the tree is cut through the end of its display period.  One has the greatest control over water loss and water replacement when the tree is cut at the time of purchase.  However, many will be buying trees that were cut in other states and hauled to a retailer from whom it is purchased at a tree lot.  Thus, many of these trees were probably cut sometime in November, baled in a string mess and shipped to the point of sale.  If this is the type of tree that you have purchased, the first thing that you need to do is get the tree into water to start replacing water that was already lost. But before you put the tree into the water, the cut end of the tree will have to be refreshed by cutting a 1/2 inch to 1 inch thick wafer off the bottom of the tree trunk.  This action removes the ends of the water conduction tubes of the tree that were clogged with resins that were released by the tree when it was originally cut, exposed to the air and left to dry.  Make the cut straight across the width of the trunk.  Don't cut the trunk at an angle, or into a v-shape, which makes it far more difficult to hold the tree in the stand and also reduces the amount of water available to the tree.  Once the cut is made, don't bruise the cut surface or get it dirty by banging it on the ground.  Without cutting the end off of the trunk, the tree might not be able to absorb water again and the tree will quickly dry out even with the end of the trunk in a reservoir of water.  Drilling holes into the base of the tree does little to help water absorption.

If needed, a tree can be temporarily stored for several days in a cool location (an unheated garage, shed or enclosed porch).  Place the freshly cut trunk in a bucket that is kept full of water.

The next important step in maintaining the freshness of your tree is to have a good tree stand with a water reservoir into which the trunk of the tree easily fits.  A mistake that some people make is shaving the bark and outer wood off the tree trunk to get it to fit into the stand.  Unfortunately, this action damages the most active and efficient water conduction tubes of the tree reducing the ability of the tree to absorb water.  Once the tree is in the water reservoir of the stand, make sure that the reservoir never runs dry and/or that the water level in the reservoir never falls below the bottom of the cut end of the tree trunk during the display period.  As a general rule, a stand should provide 1 quart of water per inch of trunk diameter to get the tree through each day.  You should expect the tree to take up water rapidly at first if it is not a freshly cut tree.  Water the tree frequently until water uptake slows, then continue to maintain the water level in the stand through the season. 

For easier watering, buy a funnel and a 3 to 4 foot tube.  Slip the tube over the funnel tip, extend the tubing down into the tree stand, and water through the funnel and tube.  Hide the funnel and tube in an out-of-the-way part of the tree.

You don't need anything other than regular tap water.  Commercially prepared mixes like aspirin, sugar and other additives to introduce into the water are not necessary.  Research has shown that plain tap water will keep a tree fresh.  The temperature of the water used to fill the stand is not important and does not affect water uptake.

Another step you should take to protect the freshness of your Christmas tree is to avoid placing the tree near any kind of heat source (e.g. fireplaces, heat registers, heaters, or in front of windows through which the sun shines).  Lowering the temperature of the room in which the tree is displayed will slow the drying process, resulting in less water consumption each day.  Running a humidifier in the room may also slow the rate at which water evaporates from the tree.

Take down the tree before it dries out.  Many fresh-cut trees, if properly cared for, should last at least five weeks before completely drying out.  Some species of evergreen trees keep their moisture longer than others.  Never burn any part of a Christmas tree in a wood stove or fireplace.

Care should be taken with Christmas lights as well.  Incandescent lights generate a lot of heat, both twinkle lights as well as older, larger style lights.  The heat from these lights will speed drying of the needles and branches.  Miniature lights produce less heat than the large bulbs, and LED lights produce the least amount of heat.  Always inspect light sets prior to placing them on the tree.  If worn, replace with a new set.  Do not overload electrical circuits or connect more sets of lights together than what is recommended by the manufacturer.  Always turn off the tree lights when leaving the house or when going to bed.

Take care of your tree, delight in its presence, and have a safe and merry Christmas.

 
December 18-19, 2014
 

The Presbyterian Church on North Main St. in Celina Ohio is have a candlelight Christmas Eve Service at 7 PM on Wednesday, December 24th.
The community is invited.

Click Here to read the latest and past Rockford Village Council News

 
December 17, 2014
 

Alumni Band and Choir to Entertain
The Parkway alumni pep band and alumni choir will be performing Saturday 
December 20th at the boys basketball game. Rehearsal for the alumni pep 
band is from 4:00 until approximately 5:30, with a carry in immediately 
following rehearsal. The alumni choir is also invited to participate in 
the carry in and will rehearse immediately following the carry in.

There is extra music available for both alumni groups, just in case you 
haven't already signed up to sing or play.

Even if you haven't played an instrument or sung in a choir for a long 
time, please don't be afraid to give it a try.

 
December 16, 2014
 

Together at Christmas Free Christmas Day Dinner

The people of Rockford United Methodist Church are in the final planning stages for their 10th Annual FREE Christmas Day Dinner. The event will be held at the Community Building at Shanes Park on Christmas Day with serving to begin at 10:30 am and continue until 1 PM.

The menu will offer turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, dressing and green beans served on china plates and brought to your table. A buffet with all sorts of desserts will be available. Church members will be on site to greet, usher and serve all those attending.

If you are alone, hungry or have guests to entertain, please join us at the park on Christmas Day so we may celebrate the births of Jesus. EVERYONE is welcome to join us so we might be Together on Christmas.

Mt. Tabor Christmas Eve Service
ALL are invited to attend a Christmas Eve Service on Wed., Dec.24th at 9:00pm!  Come observe a special Christmas celebration at Mt Tabor Church of God.  This will be a great event for friends and family!

 Mt Tabor’s Christmas Eve service will celebrate Communion and a Candlelight Ceremony.

 Mt Tabor COG is on the corner of 127 and Tama Road.  See you at 9:00pm on Wednesday evening!

Congratulations to the Rockford Carnegie Library for being selected
as the December - Rockford Chamber Business of the Month ! 

A library association was formed in 1902 in Rockford.  The library didn't
have a permanent home though during those early years.  In 1910
correspondence was started with Andrew Carnegie to get money
for a building.  The new building was dedicated in May of 1913.

The library has changed drastically in the past few years because
of technology.  The card catalog became an on-line catalog, e-books
were added to the collection and computers have become essential for
research.  

The library is funded primarily with money from the state and a local
levy.

The Rockford Carnegie library is located at 162 S Main St.  The hours
are Monday - Thursday 10 am - 8 pm.  Fridays till 5:30 pm and Saturdays
till 2 pm.

Thank you Rockford Carnegie Library for supporting your Rockford
Chamber.

Pictured left to right: Becky Schaadt, Jane Cozad - Rockford Chamber President, Rozann Maurer, and Bob Maurer

Old Christmas Decorations Wanted

Did you update your holiday decorations this year? You’re in luck! The Rockford Chamber of Commerce would love to take those old decorations off your hands. The Rockford Chamber of Commerce will gladly accept those unwanted holiday items.  Items in good shape and function may be repurposed next year.  Donated items that are broken or do not function will be properly recycled.  Let us help you make room!

No decorations to spare?  The Rockford Chamber of Commerce will rejoice in celebration of community donations. All monetary donations should be made out to Shanes Park – with drop off at the village office or mailed to Shanes Park CO/ Chamber Christmas PO Box 282, Rockford Ohio 45882

Are you a bargain shopper? Our elves at the Rockford Chamber of Commerce would love to receive any post-holiday discounted Christmas decoration donations that you may find.

CAN we make one more suggestion?  If you CAN help the Chamber in some way, and none of the above work with your schedule/interest, the Rockford Chamber will also accept aluminum CANS to recycle, with all proceeds directly benefiting future Christmas displays.

Questions? Reach out to your Rockford Chamber at chamber@rockfordalive.com, or call 419.363.302 ext. 1.

Parkway Middle School Holds DARE Graduation

Parkway Middle School held the Fifth Grade D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) graduation Friday, December 5, at the school.   Student, Ben Sheppard welcomed everyone. Fifth graders reading the winning essays were Mackenzie Stephenson, Cami High, Zaenen Renner, Chloe Morefield and Jacob Rogers.

The Honor Students receiving special recognition were: Lily Haver, Molly Hileman, Blake Strickler, Gracyn Temple, Aailya Larsen, Kaitlin Shaffner, Kameryn Altenbach and  Tim Miller.  These students were presented medals purchased by the Mercer County D.A.R.E. Boosters and earned the honor because of their extra effort in the program.

The speaker was award winning author Michelle Houts.  She talked about what can harm dreams and role bullying can play in undermining success. The program was closed by a thank you by Dani Huff. The program was concluded by the principal Mr. Brian Woods. Deputy Sue Miller is the D.A.R.E. Officer conducting the D.A.R.E.  classes.  Fifth grade teachers assisting with the D.A.R.E. graduation  were Mrs. Kraner, Mrs. Muhlenkamp, Mrs Shellabarger.  Mercer County D.A.R..E. is a division of the Mercer County Sheriff Office.

 
December 15, 2014
 

Parkway Schools went on a two hour delay for Monday, December 15, 2014 due to fog
then cancelled.

The 5 - 6th  Graders Music Concert is rescheduled for Wednesday, December 17 at 6:00 PM

Snow – Do not plow onto roadways

The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is reminding residents living on county and township roadways not to leave snow plowed from private driveways on the roadway.

Ohio law prohibits the placement of injurious material or any obstruction on a highway except that which is placed on the roadway by a proper authority, such as salt or grit the county and townships use to treat icy roads.

If it is found that snow displaced from a private drive onto a roadway contributes to an accident, the individual who placed it there could be found liable.

THE HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2015 INCLUDES MIKE SCHUMM, GALEN SCHUMM, AND ROGER CRAFT.  

THE HALL OF FAME CEREMONY WILL TAKE PLACE IN BETWEEN THE JV AND VARSITY BOYS GAME ON JANUARY 24TH. 

The public is invited to this event.

Click Here to read the profile on these former Parkway Stand-outs.

Parkway High School Band and Choir Members Entertain at Annual Winter Christmas Concert
Pictures shared by Nikki Fox - Thanks Nikki!

Many more pictures of this special event - click right here.

 
December 13-14, 2014
 

Calvary Holds Christmas Open House
Calvary Preschool recently held their annual Christmas Open House to celebrate the Holiday Season.  Students in each class made crafts to decorate trees in the classroom and to take home as gifts.  Parents and family members walked through the classrooms to see what the students accomplished and then joined others in the fellowship hall for refreshments and a slide show of activities from the beginning of the year to this time.   Calvary Preschool is located at 10686 Van Wert Decatur Road in Van Wert.  There are currently a few openings in each class for 3 years through 5 years.  Call Marilyn Agler at 567-259-3103 or check for forms on the Preschool tab of Calvary Evangelical's website. We are committed to helping children grow spiritually, emotionally and academically as they mature.

Ohio City Liberty Christmas Lights Contest

All photos that are sent to Ohio City's Pride or emailed will be added to an album. This album will be available for members to vote on the 22nd of Decembers, members will have ten days to vote and the winner will be announced on New Year’s Day. Be sure to have a photo of your home turned in by the 22nd.

Steer Weigh-in Set

 

The Junior Fair Board has set the date/time for the 2015 show steer, performance steer and dairy steer weigh-in. Please mark your calendars for Saturday January 3rd, from 8:00am-10:00am at the Junior Fair Beef Barn on the Fairgrounds. Animals not in line to be weighed at the end of the time may be disqualified from participation in the 2015 Van Wert County Jr. Fair. Exhibitors may allow someone else to weigh in their animals for them if they are unable to be present for the weigh in.

Please note: If you are planning to exhibit your steers at the Ohio State Fair you are responsible contacting the Ohio State Fair office for information regarding identification and tagging.

Exhibitors should plan to come in the gate next to the Extension office, and leave through gate 4 (livestock gate during fair) to help with the flow of traffic.  Be prepared to wait as the process takes a bit longer than the other weigh ins, but feel free to come in and help with other exhibitors and the Jr. Fair Board to help us ensure the process goes as quickly as possible!

 
December 11-12, 2014
 

PARKWAY LOCAL BOARD Of EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING  ~ December 16, 2014
AND Special Meeting at 6:30 to swear-in new board member Matt Swygart
Click Here for the Agendas from Superintendent  Puthoff

Click Here for Van Wert County Common Pleas Court Cases Heard for December 2014

 
December 9-10, 2014
 

Mercer County Engineering Complex Open House Held 12-6-2014

Jim Weichart, Mercer County Engineer, and employees of the Engineering Department held an open house for their newly completed facility on Mud Pike west of Celina on Saturday, December 6, 2014.  The new multi-million dollar complex, at 77,000 square feet, features Administrative Offices, Vehicle Maintenance Wing, Vehicle Storage Wing, Fueling Center, Salt & Grit Storage and a Vehicle Wash Bay. Bruns Building and Development was the General Contractor and Garmann-Miller was the architect.
 

The development of the engineer’s facility was in the planning process for more than a decade, according to the literature passed out at the Open House. Former County Engineers, Keith G. Earley, P.E., P. S. and Roy F. Thompson, P.E., P.S. began the planning process, and a multitude of private and public teams brought the structure to reality.

Pictured above are some of the 24 employees of the Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart (second from left), Mark Linn, Wiechart, Darren Porter, Brad Laffin, and Mark Leininger. At left: One of the newest tandem axle dump trucks in the Mercer County Engineer's fleet. It features an automatic transmission and is equipped with a 12 foot snow plow. It is used for other work in the summer.

Rockford Eagles Donate to Back Pack Program and College Students

The Rockford Eagles Aerie 1292 recently donated $2000 to the Parkway Back Pack Program. Pastor Tim Clutter, above, accepts the check from Blair Shaffer, on behalf of his ministry C.A.L.L. Ministries. Tim says they need $4200 to fully fund the program across the Mercer County, and he deeply appreciated the generous check from the Eagles on behalf of the Parkway children. Tim said Parkway children in K-4^th grade get a bag of food sent home every weekend including 2 breakfasts; 2 lunches; 2 suppers; 2 snacks and 1 or 2 drinks per child. A jar of peanut butter goes home to the households on free meals at school a the beginning of each month. 260 students are involved at Parkway, and this is the 4^th year for the program there. Volunteer Deb Hecht oversees the program with a team of 15 volunteers helping her.

The Rockford Eagles Aerie 1292 recently gave renewal scholarships to students who are Wright State University Lake Campus and are parkway graduates. Tia Caffee, daughter of John and Lisa (Painter) Caffee of Willshire will graduate in May 2014 with an Associates Degree in Graphic Design. An outstanding artist at Parkway, she graduated in 2013. Tegan Felver, daughter of Carl and Deena Felver is also from Willshire, and will graduate with an Associates Degree in Business Applications. Aslo a graduate of Parkway 2013, Tegan is learning office management and enjoys MS Access Database the best.  Others who were not present but received renewals were: Austin Adams, Amber Swander and Kirsten Schriema. Left to right: Blair Shaffer explained that the renewals would go directly to Wright State. Tegan and Tia stand next to Wright State University Development Officer, Julie M. Miller. The Rockford Eagles have funded $30,188.00 from 2006-2013 and $8,000 for 2014-2015. All of this money went for Parkway scholarships furthering their education.

 
December 6-8, 2014
 

Stateline Writer’s Holiday Meeting
Members and guests are invited to the Stateline Writer's Club holiday luncheon at CJ Highmarks, 1211 Irmscher Blvd., Celina, Ohio, on Saturday, December 13, 2014, from 11 am to 1 pm. Those attending are asked, but not required, to bring a $5 gift to exchange along with a short written piece about the gift or about the holiday.

There will be no meeting on December 20, 2014, and the next meeting will be held Saturday, March 21, 2015 at the Mercer County District Library, Celina, Ohio.

20th ANNUAL TWIG III TREE OF LIGHTS CEREMONY

Stars Placed on Tree in Honor or Memory of Loved Ones

VAN WERT, OHIO – The volunteer of TWIG III and the Van Wert County Hospital illuminated the holiday sky at the 20th Annual “Tree of Lights” ceremony on Tuesday, December 2nd at 7:00 pm. 

In keeping with the 20 year tradition, the lighting of the tree in the front of the hospital marks the beginning of the holiday season.  The Tree of Lights is both a remembrance service and a TWIG III fundraiser in support of hospital programs.  For a contribution, family members placed star ornaments on the tree. Thirty five stars were placed on the tree honoring or in memory of loved ones.

The 20th annual event raised $2,300.  TWIG III President Lisa Dunn said, “Since 1994, the Van Wert Community has been tremendously supportive of the Tree of Light project. With the generosity of Van Wert and surrounding communities, we have been able to give over $76,000.00 to the hospital for the purchase of the most up-to-date medical equipment available from this project alone. We are very grateful for that support”.

The evening started with an invocation from Pastor Paul Hamrick from First Friends Church. The Lincolnview Octet performed under the direction of Mrs. Stacy Korte.  Following the check presentation, Lisa Dunn, TWIG III member, read the names on the stars.  As the event concluded, attendees enjoyed a reception in the hospital cafeteria.

About Van Wert Hospital

For more than 100 years, Van Wert Hospital has been delivering superior patient care and advancing new treatments.  As an independent nonprofit community health system, Van Wert County Hospital remains committed to the region’s healthcare needs for generations to come.  Van Wert Hospital is committed to today, focused on tomorrow. Visit www.vanwerthospital.org for more information.

Parkway Yearbooks from Previous Years Available

Purchasing a yearbook from your child or grandchild’s high school years is a unique and meaningful idea for a Christmas gift.  Parkway Local Schools has extra yearbooks from 2004 through 2013 that will be for sale through Friday, December 19 for $20 each. There are also a limited number of 2013-2014 books still available for $40 each.  The 2005-2006 yearbook is the last year in the old buildings and the 2006-2007 yearbook is the first book in our new building. All books will be sold on a first come first serve basis. If you are interested in purchasing a book, contact Curtis Hamrick at hamricc@parkwayschools.org or 419-363-3045 ext. 565

Messiah Soloists announced for Van Wert Performance

Every other year, The Van Wert County Foundation in cooperation with First United Methodist Church in Van Wert presents a performance of Handel’s Messiah.  This year the performance will be Sunday, December 14 at 7:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church.  The performance includes a 60 member community chorus, a professional chamber orchestra, and esteemed soloists.  The soloists for this year’s performance are soprano, Kirsten Osbun Manley; mezzo, Tina Bunce; tenors, Shawn and Richard Mathey; and bass, Sean Cooper.

Osbun Manley is resident artist in music and co-director of the musical theatre program at Ohio Northern University, where she teaches voice and diction for singers and directs the opera workshop program.  She has appeared in recital and concert in performance venues throughout the Great Lakes Region.  Recently she was the featured soprano soloist in Mozart’s Mass in C minor and Ralph Vaughan William’s Serenade to Music with the Lima Symphony Orchestra.  She has considerable opera and musical theatre experience, including roles in The Ballad of Baby Doe, The Magic Flute, Carmen, The Merry Widow, Candide, The King and I, and The Sound of Music.  She will be making her first Van Wert Messiah appearance.

Tina Sandor Bunce is primarily known for her work in oratorio and on the concert stage.  She has excelled as soloist in performances of many of the great works for choir and orchestra, including Verdi’s Requiem, Handel’s Messiah, Mendelssohn’s Elijah, Mozart’s Requiem, Mahler’s Second Symphony, Beethoven’s Missa Solemnis and Ninth Symphony, and St. John and St. Matthew Passions of J.S. Bach.  Recently, she participated in weeklong residencies at Chester and Liverpool Cathedrals in England.  She is a member of the Bowling Green vocal ensemble Opus 181 and the Canterbury Singers, USA.  In addition, Bunce maintains a private studio in Bowling Green and Findlay, Ohio.  Bunce last performed Messiah in Van Wert in 1995.

Richard Mathey is no stranger to Van Wert and First United Methodist Church.  He has been guest soloist in Messiah as well as the Seven Last Words of Christ on several occasions.  In addition, he has been guest conductor for District, Regional and State Music Festivals.  Making his singing debut in 1971 at Alice Tully Hall in New York City, he has since performed 17 leading operatic tenor roles and has soloed with symphonies throughout the Midwest.  As director of choral activities and professor of music at Bowling Green State University for 32 years, Mathey became infamous as conductor and director of both Men’s Chorus and Mixed Choirs, taking them on tour all over the United States.

Richard’s pride and joy, his son Shawn has become a very distinguished tenor in his own right.  Shawn Mathey performs in the most important and distinguished opera companies and music festivals in the world including the Paris Opera, the Operahaus Zurich, the Salzburg Festival, Frankfort Opera, the Lyric Opera of Chicago and the Washington National Opera among many others.  This season, Mathey made his debut in Seoul, Korea as the Duke of Mantua in Rigoletto, followed by one of his signature roles, Tamino in Kansas City.  He then debuted two extremely rare roles at the Opera de St. Etienne in France which will be recorded for commercial release.  He has also performed with the Cincinnati and Toledo Operas as well as Opera Hong Kong.  We are extremely honored to have Mr. Mathey make his first Van Wert appearance as he joins his father in the tenor roles of our Messiah.

Sean Cooper, praised for his “rich,” “powerful,” and “well-tempered” vocal production has performed both Broadway and Opera roles in San Francisco, New York, Los Angeles, New Hampshire, North Carolina, and Guam.  His roles include Figaro in Le Nozze di Figaro, Leporello in Don Giovanni, Pirate King in Pirates of Penzance to mention just a few.  His opera performances include Raphael in Haydn’s Creation, Jesus in Bach’s Passion of St. John and numerous Messiah and Beethoven Ninth performances.  He has also performed with the Detroit, Pittsburgh, Memphis, Toledo, Lima, Warren and Oakland, MI Symphonies.  His musical theater experience includes Riverdance! On Broadway, Carousel, The Fantastiks, Gypsy, South Pacific, and Jesus Christ Superstar to mention a few.  We welcome Professor Cooper of Bowling Green State University back for his second Van Wert Messiah performance. 

Paul Hoverman, Senior Choir Director at First United Methodist Church in Van Wert will be the conductor.  Gloria Wendel and Annette Hoverman have been rehearsal accompanists.  Jake Wilder of Van Wert has assisted in sectional chorus rehearsals.  The 7:00 p.m. performance is open to the public with doors opening at 6:00 p.m.  A free-will offering will be received.

Parkway December 2014 Breakfast & Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Parkway Local Schools December Calendar of Events - Click Here
By  Lisa Miller
Athletic / HS Attendance Secretary
Parkway Local Schools

 
December 4-5, 2014
Parkway Independent - Celebrating 10 years of bringing news to the Parkway area communities.
 

Snapshot Cuisine opens for a new dining experience on Saturday, December 6, 2014. Come to 209 South Main Street in Celina and try this menu:
Green Lentil & Andouille; New England Clam Chowder; Smoked Salmon Tartar with Quail Egg Gribiche: Lamb T-bone with Bordelaise, Harissa & Raita; Shrimp Scampi with Beurre-Blanc & Arugula on Baguette; Quail with Cream Corn, BBQ Sauce & Corn Salsa; and Creme Brulee for dessert. Reservations recommended but not required from 5 pm to Midnight. 419-953-5232.

Snow Plow Rodeo

Mercer County Engineer employees participated in the County Engineer’s Association of Ohio Annual Snow Plow Rodeo on November 25, 2014 held at the Allen County Fairgrounds, Lima.  Every year Mercer County Engineer snow and ice control crews participate with their counterparts from Allen and Auglaize counties in competitions testing their skills against others in their profession.  The activity allows the crews to network with others in the region about snow and ice control and other county engineer work efforts.  Every year one of the three counties involved take turns hosting the event.

This year the Mercer County team (Darren Porter, Tony Knapke, TJ Smalley, & Derrick Harter) came in first.

“Part of the day involves competition and displaying individual skills in snow and ice control, as well as other equipment operation,” Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart says.  “Another part of the day involves a training and safety program.  I think the most important part of the day for the guys is the ability to communicate and share what is working and what is not working in their operations with others in the region.”

            Wiechart offers the following guidelines for motorists to follow as they travel this winter season:

            If you have to travel during hazardous conditions, use common sense and adjust your speed to surrounding road conditions and slow down.

            When following a snowplow, be vigilant and stay back far enough so you can be seen in the snowplow driver’s mirrors.  All snowplows have starting and stopping points on their routes and at times unexpected backing by the truck may be necessary.

            Many of the township and county road pavements are one-lane or narrower.  Never attempt to pass from behind in these circumstances.

            When approaching a snowplow coming toward you on a typical two-lane road, give some room to those large trucks and pull over as far as you safely can.  The tip of the blade usually is at or around the centerline of the pavement.

            Be vigilant at intersections and provide plenty of room.  Plows may have to clear the edges of the radius of the intersection of snow and ice, which require many forward and reverse operations at the intersection area.

If clearing driveway, do no push snow to wrong side of mailbox (the low side).

            Keep track of the road conditions and advisories issued by the local media.

 
December 2-3, 2014
 

Parkway Team Photos Below are Compliments of Nikki Fox Photography.
Thank you for sharing Nikki!

Click Here for Parkway Varsity and Junior Varsity Boys Basketball Team Pictures

Click Here for Parkway Varsity and Junior Varsity Girls Basketball Team Pictures

Click Here for Parkway Varsity Boys and Girls Bowling Team Pictures

Click Here for Parkway Varsity and Junior Varsity Cheerleaders Pictures

Click Here for Parkway Varsity Wrestling Team Picture

Click Here for Parkway Junior High Boys and Girls Basketball Teams Pictures, 
Wrestling Team Picture and Cheerleaders

Printable Parkway Sports Schedule for the Week of December 1, 2014

VARSITY GIRLS BASKETBALL DEFEATS PERRY 71-50.THE LAST TIME WE WERE 2-0 TO START A SEASON WAS 1996-97. JV MOVES TO 2-0 WITH A 51-21 WIN

Mailbox Repair

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart is announcing the policy covering replacement and repair of mailboxes damaged by county crews plowing snow.

Mailboxes and posts damaged by snow and ice thrown from plow blades will not be repaired by the Engineer’s office.  Boxes and posts damaged by contact from a plow blade or truck will be replaced by the Engineer’s office, using light-weight standard steel mailboxes and 4-by-4-inch wooden posts.

Parkway Local Board of Education Special Meeting

The Parkway Local Board of Education will hold a special meeting on Wednesday, December 3, 2014 at 7:00 p.m. in the high school conference room.  The board will go into executive session for the purpose of interviewing potential board candidates.  No business will be conducted.

The Parkway Local Board of Education will hold a special meeting on Tuesday, December 16, 2014 at 6:30 p.m. in the community room.  The purpose of the meeting will be to appoint a new board member.  The regular December board meeting will start immediately after the special meeting.

 
December 1, 2014
 

Mercer County Engineer Facility Open House Set
Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart announced today that an open house has been scheduled for 9:00 am – 2:00 pm on Saturday, December 6, 2014 at the Mercer County Engineer Facility, 4884 Mud Pike, Celina, Ohio 45822.

This event is an opportunity for the general public to walk through and view the facility improvements which were recently constructed, as well as to see engineer staff and the equipment they use in their mission to maintain and improve Mercer County’s roads and bridges. Parking will be on the east side of the facility in the stone area, to be accessed from the eastern most drive, near the fueling system.

Chamber Meeting Date Changed
The December Rockford Chamber meeting has been rescheduled 
from December 1st  back to our original day and time.

Therefore - 

The Rockford Chamber will be meeting on on December 11th at 8 am
at the Rockford Village Hall.

Remember the Rockford Eagles Fish Fry and Chicken Strips Dinners
on Friday, December 5, 2014 from 5-7 PM.
Members and Guests only. Good Food! See ad above for details.

Mercer Health’s Doctor’s Urgent Care to change hours

Mercer Health offers Doctor’s Urgent Care and x-ray services located at the Community Medical Center, south of Celina on 127.  Starting January 5th, 2015, Doctor’s Urgent Care will be open on Monday through Friday from 6 p.m. until11:30 p.m. and Weekends and Holidays from 1:30 to 9:30 p.m.  Mercer Health also offers a state-of-the-art, 24—hour emergency room with advanced x-ray and medical imaging services in Coldwater.  For more information, visit mercer-health.com.

Genealogical Society will meet
The Mercer County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society will meet Sunday, December 7 at 2:00 pm.  This is the annual Christmas gathering.  The speakers will be Sue Miller and Annie Miller sharing a collection of Vintage Toys most from the 1930’s. Those attending are invited to bring one of their own childhood toys for a show and tell portion of the program.  The Chapter will also install the officers for upcoming year. The meeting is held at the Richardson Bretz Building behind the library in Celina.  The public is always welcome. This is a good time to meet and get to know others interested and active in researching family history.

OUR OLD BOOK CASE

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

Photo caption:  The Immaculate Conception High School was dedicated on Thanksgiving Day, 1933 at the corner of Anthony and Wayne Streets, Celina, during the Great Depression.

On Thanksgiving Day, 1933, the Immaculate Conception Parish dedicated a new high school building, at Anthony and Wayne Streets, Celina.  This history is found in the 1978 “Mercer County History” book. 

The Immaculate Conception Parish was organized in 1864; they are celebrating their 150th Anniversary this year.  Their first Parish Church was dedicated December 8, 1865, at the end of the historic year of the Civil War.  In 1900 work began on the present Church and was completed three years later in 1903.  The Class of 1972 was the last class to be graduated from the I.C. High School, as the cost of maintaining a High School was prohibitive.  However, the I.C. Elementary School continues to serve its Parish. 

The history states that the High School building cost $72,000.00, which must have been a fortune during the Great Depression of the 1930’s.  That must have been a grand achievement for I.C. Parish to fund a new building for the I.C. High School, during the 1930’s.  What else was happening in the 1930’s?

Black Tuesday, October 29, 1929, was the date of the Crash of the Stock Market which set off the Great Depression.  The 1930’s Depression was felt across the country, as well as here in Mercer County, from all of the stories I have heard, when I was growing up.

On March 3, 1931, President Herbert Hoover signed a bill making “The Star Spangled Banner,” the National Anthem.  Whenever that Anthem is played, everyone stops in respect for our Flag and for which it stands.  Later that year, on December 24, the first Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree was decorated.

On June 17, 1932, nearly 10,000 desperate World War I Veterans, who had not yet received their War Bonus over a dozen years after that War was over, marched on the Capitol at Washington D.C. when the U.S. Senate was voting on the Bill, which had already been passed by the House.  At that time, the War Bonus was $1.25 per day for overseas service and $1.00 for stateside service.  But, on June 27, 1932 the Senate vote defeated the bill, 62 to 18.  The Veterans’ War Bonus was not paid until 1945!   How many Mercer County World War I Veterans had to wait for their War Bonus until 1945?

Another event was planned, which was supposed to “brighten the gloom of the Depression,” at Chicago to mark its 100th Birthday, with the opening of the World’s Fair on May 17, 1933.   The Fair Planners looked to the stars, for light.  The star Arcturas, one of the closest stars, was 40 light years away.  (One light year equals about 6,000,000,000,000 miles, the distance light travels in a year.) The world’s largest refracting telescope at Yerkes Observatory in Wisconsin, caught the ray of Arcturas starlight and focused it on a photoelectric cell which transformed its energy into the current needed to throw the switch at the Fairgrounds.  As the crowd watched, a white beam shot out from a search light atop the Hall of Science.  As the light touched one Exposition building after another, the crowd was thrown into a brilliant light.

Who remembers the 1933 dedication of the I.C. High School building?  Who remembers the Great Depression here in Mercer County?  Did anyone in Mercer County attend the World’s Fair at Chicago in 1933?  Please send your stories so they can be preserved at the Mercer County Historical Museum.

 
November 26-30, 2014

Happy Thanksgiving!
 

Click Here for Van Wert County Common Pleas Court Cases Heard for November 2014

Community Building in Rockford Releases Newest Events - Click Here

Find out More About Renting the Community Building at Shanes Park  

16th Annual Mendon Festival of Trees & Christmas Walk – come to Mendon, Ohio

Friday December 5th         6-9 PM

Saturday December 6th    1-5:30 PM

(Times for some events vary)

There will be over 85 Christmas Trees with a variety of themes on display at the Historic Town Hall in Mendon. Enjoy all of this with just a $1.00 donation and children under 12 attend free. Refreshments included in cost of admission.

Angel & Nativity Displays will be at Mendon First Church of God - Friday & Saturday

Live "Animals of the Nativity" at Bethlehem Stable - Fri. 6-9, Sat. 1-4 (Located at Old Firehouse on Main St.)

SATURDAY ONLY

Free Horse Drawn Carriage Rides (1:30-5:30) 

Visits Santa Claus (1:30-4:30) at his house on Main Street

Family Activities - Mendon United Methodist Church

Hot Head Burritos Joins Celina Mercer County Chamber


Owners of Hot Head Burritos, Jim and Beth Miller have joined the Celina
Mercer
County Chamber of Commerce.   A ribbon cutting was held after a soft opening
to the
community.   A fresh alternative to fast food, Hot Head Burritos is located
at 1945 Havemann Road in Celina.  

Mile-X Equipment Inc. has joined Celina Mercer Chamber
Mile-X Equipment, Inc. has joined the Celina Mercer County Chamber of
Commerce.  Mostly an internet based company,
Mile-X Equipment is a shop and garage equipment provider.  Visit
www.mile-x.com for more details.

Neal's Hardin Street Automotive has joined Celina Mercer Chamber
Hardin Street Automotive has been purchased by Neal Marchal.   The business
has been renamed to Neal's Hardin Street Automotive.
They are located at 300 Hardin Street in Coldwater.  Phone # 419 678-0163.
www.hardinstreetautomotive.com

Business Journal Joins Celina Mercer County Chamber

The Business Journal of West Central Ohio is the leading source of local
business news and information for the thirteen-county region.
Visit www.businessjrnl.com for more details.

Atelier Salon is the newest member business of the Celina Mercer County
Chamber of Commerce.
A full service salon, Atelier Salon is located at 224 South Main Street in
Celina.  Visit www.myateliersalon.com for more business details

Dancing with the Big Stars

Dancing with the Big Stars (DWTBS) has brought a countless number of people together on Saturday, November 15 to raise money and awareness for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mercer, Auglaize, and Van Wert Counties (BBBS). The first time ever event recruited “stars” including marketing managers, police officers, superintendents, and everyone in between to not only raise money on behalf of BBBS but perform on the dance floor at the Overdrive in front of more than five hundred community members.

“This is the first time our agency has done an event like this. It was a huge risk to put this much time and effort into something without knowing the outcome,” stated Abby Balster, Executive Director of BBBS. “We are so glad we did. The community was very supportive of our dancers and their fundraising efforts.”

Before the event even started the dancers had already raised over $5,000. Balster says that the amount of funds that came in throughout the day was astounding. Over $7,000 was collected in just a few hours.

“The goal of Big Brothers Big Sisters was to raise $10,000 for youth mentoring, and we surpassed that by another $10,000. So in total we raised over $20,000 for kids in Mercer, Auglaize, & Van Wert counties,” expressed Balster.

Jeff Knapke (star) and Janessa Schwieterman (professional) were busy fundraising and asking family and friends to support their efforts. All their hard work paid off in the end, as they went home with the Big Star Award, for raising the most money for BBBS. They were able to raise over $3,500 as a couple.

The judges, Jane Diller, Lucy Staugler, and Eric Wellman, also had their work cut out for them that evening as well. All the dancers brought their “A” game.  It was such a tough decision that the Judges’ Choice Award ended in a tie. Shelly Vaughn (star) and Ron Rindler (professional) and Pete Lisi (star) and Ashley Etzkorn (professional) both had the exact same score from the judges. Both couples received the Judges’ Choice Award for their tremendous performance.

“We cannot express our thanks enough to all of those who donated or helped to make this event a huge success,” said Balster. “We are so glad there are businesses like F1 Sound, Romer’s Catering, Anew You, Visions, G D Garman Photography, and Mr. Shoppe that helped to make this event happen. “

If you would like to “see” or remember this event, you are able to order a DVD for $10. Call 419-394-2990 or send a check with your name and phone number by November 30 to place your order.

The ultimate goal of this fundraiser was to help youth in the community. BBBS will be using the money to match the 35 children on their waiting list with a Big and to support all five of their youth mentoring programs. For more information about becoming a Big or enrolling a child contact BBBS at 419-394-2990 or by e-mail at anixon@bbbsma.com.

 
November 24-25, 2014
 

THANKSGIVING EVE SERVICE

Chatt Valley Churches will be holding a Thanksgiving Eve Service , Wed. at 7:00pm. The service will be held a Zion Lutheran Church, St Rt 49 Chattenooga, OH.  Pastor Catherine Costello from UCC will give the Thanksgiving message, refreshments will follow the service.

Everyone is welcome.

Into the Woods Presented at Parkway High School Auditorium by Middle School Students.
It was their first ever production.
Friday and Saturday, November 21, and 22, 2014 7 PM - Congratulations

See more terrific pictures below by Photographer Nikki Fox. Click on smaller thumbnails to enlarge them.

WREN CHRISTMAS SOCIETY News

The Wren Christmas Society would like to thank everyone who purchased chicken dinner tickets, those who donated money, and Gibson's Barnyard BBQ for preparing the chicken dinners.  The money raised will help pay for the electricity for the Christmas lights this holiday seaon. 

The WCS spends over $900 a year for electricity, $1000 for replacement bulbs, strand lights, and miscellaneous electrical, $500-$1000 a year for new display items, $450 for wagon rides, cards and candy for the children.  Your support and generous donations help make what we do possible.  

In other WCS news, the Christmas decorations were put up in Wren on Saturday, November 15th and the official lighting ceremony will be held this Saturday, Nov. 29th at dark (approximately 6:00 pm).  

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in Wren at the Santa House at the corner of St. Rt. 49 and Jackson Street on Saturday, December 13th and Friday and Saturday, December 19th and 20th from 6 to 8 pm.  Carriage rides, hot chocolate and cookies will be available during Santa hours.

The Society will also be sponsoring an Outside Home Display Contest again this year within a 3 mile radius of Wren.  Please contact Karen at 419-495-2623 with any questions.

District 3 Honors Participants Chosen 
After a competitive audition process on November 15th, the following Parkway High School band and choir members were chosen to participate in the following OMEA District 3 honors groups: 

Choir: Nathan Boroff-Tenor 

Band: Emily Strunk-Clarinet 
          Paige Hamrick-Alto Saxophone 
          Grace Linn-Percussion 

Jazz Band: Grace Linn-Piano 

District 3 is one of seventeen music districts in the state of Ohio and is comprised of the following counties: Allen, Auglaize, Hancock, Hardin, Mercer, Paulding, Putnam and Van Wert. All students selected for these honors groups will be in concert on Sunday January 11th at 3:00 in the Niswonger Performing Arts Center in Van Wert. 

 

The Nutcracker Ballet
The Christmas season begins in Northwest Ohio with great fanfare! The Nutcracker Ballet comes to the Niswonger on Saturday, December 6 with two showtimes. The 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM showtimes will accommodate families traveling in from around the region to usher in the holiday in a classically entertaining way.

Family Seating Available Now.

Vendor/Craft Show Benefit for Ned Pryer
Date: Dec. 7, 2014
Time: 1pm - 5pm
Location: Celina Eagles #1291
Ned Pryer has been in Cleveland Hospital for 8+ weeks and looking at least another 6-8 weeks of being there.  He has had many heart issues and they are working on his health to try to resolve the issues.  Due to being in the hospital they have acquired many bills that we are working on trying to help them with.  All proceeds from raffle, bake sale, and table rent will go to Ned Pryer.
40+ tables/vendors/crafters to be set up to visit their tables to look at product, cash and carry, etc.  Do your Christmas Shopping while helping with a great cause!
Raffle and Bake Sale to be held during entire event.

Free Pizza and The Grinch Coming December 6

You are invited to attend a FREE Pizza & “GRINCH” Movie Night on Saturday, December 6th at 5:00pm!  Come join the food and fun at Mt Tabor Church of God.  There will be pizza, chips, cookies and beverages to enjoy while we watch “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.”  This will be a great event for your friends and family!

Mt Tabor’s FREE Pizza & “GRINCH” Movie Night will begin a series of Christmas messages beginning December 7th.  This series will tie biblical principles to scenes from the movie, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Sunday Worship starts at 10:00am!

Mt Tabor COG is on the corner of 127 and Tama Road.  See you at 5:00pm on Saturday!

For more information check out: www.taborreach.org

Parkway Local School Board Meeting Change

The Parkway Local Board of Education regular meeting for December will be held on Tuesday, December 16 at 6:30 p.m. in Community Room of Parkway Local Schools.

 
November 22-23, 2014
 

Arrangements for Herbert Brandt Funeral

Rockford Area Development Corporation to Meet
RADC meeting reminder for Monday, November 24th, at 7:30 pm in the Rockford Library basement. We will be discussing candy cane distribution at the 4 way stop. The chamber also has some great "Welcome to Rockford" pamphlets to be distributed with the candy canes. 

 
November 21, 2014
 

Prayers are Needed - Click Here

ROCKFORD UNITED METHODIST WOMEN’S FALL DINNER AND AUCTION TICKETS FOR SALE

The Rockford  United Methodist Church Women at   202 SOUTH FRANKLIN ST. ROCKFORD,  OH 45882
are busy planning their  Fall Dinner and Auction for Saturday,  November 22, 2014

They will be Serving  Dinners from  4:30-6:30 and tickets are now on sale!

Carry  Out or Dine in of these choice delicious meals:

Pork  Chop Dinner—$8 comes with baked potato, applesauce, roll,  cookie, and beverage

Or

Chicken  Dinner--$7 comes potato  chips, applesauce, roll,  cookies, and beverage

(Auction  will begin at  6:30)

Tickets  are available until November 13th at the following Rockford
Businesses: Henkle  Insurance, His  ‘n Hers,  Rockford  UM Church office
(419-363-3230) or contact any Rockford UM Woman.

All proceeds donated to Missions.

Rockford United Methodist Church Begins Five: 02 Activities

The FIVE:02 Ministry of Rockford United Methodist Church has begun now through December each Wednesday. A FREE Community Dinner is served at 5:02 – 7 PM on Wednesdays. Bible Study follows 5:42-7:00.
Kids Club is daily after school with transportation provided for Pre-K through 5th graders. Class and Life Group Sessions are listed above in the ad banner or by calling the church.

RUMC congregation invites the public to join them for their fall activities.

 
November 20, 2014
 

Parkway School Board Seeks Replacement

The Parkway Local Schools Board of Education is filling a vacancy created by the resignation of one of its members.  The position will be for approximately thirteen months and the term will end on December 31, 2015.  Qualified candidates should submit a statement of interest, listing qualifications, to Gregory Puthoff, Superintendent, Parkway Local Schools, Rockford, OH  45882.  The school board may interview selected candidates prior to the appointment of the new board member at the December 16 regular board meeting.  The deadline for the written statement of interest is noon on Monday, December 1.  Questions concerning the vacancy can be directed to Gregory Puthoff, Superintendent or Kim Brandt, Board President.

Parkway Committee Members Decide on Challenged Book
Tuesday, 11-18-2014 School Board Members Hear More Discussion

A special committee was recently formed by the Parkway School Board meeting to read and decide on a challenged book. The book had been a reading assignment for the entire freshmen class, and came under fire by Jeff Armstrong, a parent of a freshman in the class. The book, The Freedom Writer’s Diary written by Erin Gruwell and her high school students in California, was assigned by Ms. Jessica Rolfes, a new teacher to the Parkway School system. She teaches the freshman English classes and had previously taught the book at a high school in South Carolina. Ms. Rolfes sent a letter home to parents of the Parkway freshmen explaining the controversial issues with the book as well as her goal of teaching literary devices through the text. There was much discussion at the board meeting in October. After the school policy on book challenges was reviewed, Jeff Armstrong was notified that a formal complaint was needed so that a special committee could be convened. He filed that complaint with high school principal Brian Fortkamp. The special committee then read and made their recommendations to the school board a few weeks ago. The committee decided the book was not appropriate for freshmen, and it was pulled from Ms. Rolfes' reading selection for her classroom. She chose another book to replace it Lord of the Flies. At the school board meeting on November 18, 2014, board members heard from community members supporting the Armstrong family. Apparently, even though the decision to shelve the book for freshmen is final and supported by the board, the topic is unfortunately not over at Parkway High School. The Parkway School Board members listened to complaints about a blog and will gather more information before further discussion.

Mercer County Engineer Facility Open House Set
Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart announced today that an open house has been scheduled for 9:00 am – 2:00 pm on Saturday, December 6, 2014 at the Mercer County Engineer Facility, 4884 Mud Pike, Celina, Ohio 45822.

This event is an opportunity for the general public to walk through and view the facility improvements which were recently constructed, as well as to see engineer staff and the equipment they use in their mission to maintain and improve Mercer County’s roads and bridges. Parking will be on the east side of the facility in the stone area, to be accessed from the eastern most drive, near the fueling system.

 
November 19, 2014
 

Parkway Schools are on a two hour delay for Wednesday, November 19, 2014.
Sheriff continues to caution drivers about road conditions.

 

Thank you to Chatt Insurance Center ~ for being our weather sponsor.

Family Health Care of Northwest Ohio Launches Shoe Collection Drive
Shoe donations will also support micro-enterprises in developing nations and reduce what goes into landfills.

Family Health Care, a non-profit company based in Van Wert, Ohio is conducting a shoe collection drive. 
Family Health Care will earn funds based on the number of pairs collected as Funds2Orgs will purchase all of the 
donated goods.  Those dollars will benefit the patients of Family Health Care. Anyone can help by donating gently 
worn, used or new shoes at Family Health Care, 1052 S. Washington Street in Van Wert.

Several local SCHOOLS AND CHURCHES are participating in the collection. DONATIONS ARE BEING ACCEPTED AT 
THESE LOCATIONS- Van Wert Elementary, Lincolnview, and Calvary Evangelical Church, Van Wert, Ohio; Crestview 
Local Schools, Convoy, Ohio; Parkway Local Schools, Rockford United Methodist Church, New Horizons Community Church, Rockford, Ohio;  and Immaculate Conception School, Celina, Ohio. Each location has its own deadline in place  for collecting. The drive ends December 31. 

All donated shoes will then be redistributed throughout the Funds2Orgs network of microenterprise partners in developing nations.  Funds2Orgs helps impoverished people start, maintain and grow businesses in countries such as 
Haiti, Honduras and other nations in Central America and Africa. Proceeds from the shoe sales are used to feed, clothe and house their families. One budding entrepreneur in Haiti even earned enough to send to her son to law school.

“We are excited about our shoe drive," said Jenny Smith, Director. "We know that most people have extra shoes in their closets that they could donate to us and help those less fortunate become self-sufficient.  Family Health Care will 
use the earned funds to help cover the cost of our uninsured clients that pay a minimum fee for their office visits. It’s a win-win for everyone”.

By donating shoes to Family Health Care, the shoes will be given a second chance and make a difference in people’s lives. 

Local organizations interested in learning more about conducting a shoe drive of their own can visit Funds2orgs.com. 

VWHS Theatre Fall Play Debuts this Weekend

Van Wert High School Theatre is making final preparations for their fall production “George Washington Slept Here” by Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman. Join them on Friday, November 21st and Saturday, November 22nd at 7pm in the Niswonger Performing Arts Center Auditorium for an evening filled with laughter end enjoyment featuring the talented students of VWHS

Theatre. The fall play is being directed by Melissa Bloomfield and Danielle Slagle with Hugh Saunier, Matt Saunier, and Josh Schumm serving as technical directors. Students have been working hard on blocking, developing their characterizations, painting, publicizing, and rehearsing since September. The following students are a part of the cast and crew of the production: Sage Burden, Brittney Boaz, Tyler Nygren, Sarah Linser, Lexi Ayers, Lexi Lepper,

Cade Chiles, Maggie Cripe, Haley Richardson, Madison Buecker, Rachel Davis, James Defore, LeAndryce Miller, Nathan Ireland, Alea Hill, Noah Miller, Matt Saunier, Shianne Baldwin, Samantha Brooks, Shelbee Miller, Kaylin Bledsoe, Olivia Wingo, Morgan Lahmon, Valerie Barnhart, Madison Turnwald, Hannah Bartley, Erin Richardson, and Olivia Mengerink. Before our Saturday performance from 4:30-7pm in the High School Commons, dine at the Wing Ding Dinner supporting our local Salvation Army. This event sponsored by the VWHS

Senior Class costs $7 for an adult meal and $4 for a kids meal. Support our seniors and the Salvation Army before our fall play. VWHS Theatre is continuing to create, perform, and inspire the Van Wert community through the theatrical arts. Produced by special arrangement with Dramatists Play Service, New York, NY.

 
November 18, 2014
 

Parkway Schools are now closed for Tuesday, November 18, 2014.

Cancelled Practices for November 18, 2014:
Grades 2-6 Basketball
All Junior High Scrimmages and Practices
All High School Basketball Scrimmages and Practices
All Wrestling Scrimmages and Practices
Junior High Drama Practice

Lunch Menu changes due to cancellations:
Wednesday, November 19 will be Chili, Toasted Cheese meal
Friday, November 21 will be Ham, French Toast Meal
 

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports at 5:15 AM: Use caution while driving as roads are becoming snow covered and slick with black ice. Possible white out conditions in spots.

Parkway Schools are on a two hour delay for Tuesday, November 18, 2014,
due to road conditions.

Field trips are cancelled for Tuesday, November 18, 2014.

Thank you to Chatt Insurance Center ~ for being our weather sponsor.

Dublin Township Renewal Levy Passes
The 5 year 0.5-mill property tax levy was renewed handily 490-130 in last week's election. It will continue to generate a little over $10,000 annually. Services provided include ambulance service, road repairs, utilities, trustee's salaries and other services. Thank you!

Baby Welcomed in Canales Family - Click Here for Details
 

 
November 17, 2014
 

Parkway Schools are on a two hour delay for Monday, November 17, 2014,
due to snow. Approximately 4 inches fell overnight.

Thank you to Chatt Insurance Center ~ for being our weather sponsor.

Pep Band Practice is cancelled for the evening.

Couple from Rockford Serve the Lord in Detroit Michigan

Chad Shellabarger and his wife Doris recently celebrated their first year in Mission work, following the call from Lord Jesus to move to Detroit, Michigan to serve the under-privileged of the inner city.

The young couple from Rockford (who belong to Mt. Tabor church of God), work within the organization called YouthWorks which focuses the majority of its time and efforts on equipping Detroit youth for the fullness  of life (John 10:10).  Chad and Doris work within the school year calendar of Detroit Public School system.  They pull together a unique group of volunteers called gapers in order to fully staff the different programs. Gappers take a year to “stand in the  gap” (Ezekiel 22:30).  Shown here is the group of Gappers who helped the Shellabargers move into their third story apartment  last August 2013. 

Top L to bottom R:  Evan (Gapper from Ann Arbor), Camille (part-time staff from Ann Arbor), Ryan (Gapper from Belfast, Northern Ireland), Emily (staff from Sterling Heights, MI), Matt (Gapper from Minnesota) Chad, and Anna (staff from Minnesota)  Photographer: Josh (Executive Director)

The  P.R.A.I.S.E. youth group is a weekly program. Chad explains, “It is structured similarly to a church youth group, but with some natural differences based on the needs of urban youth.  We focus chiefly on intentionally building deep relationships and living out our faith by example.  With a good balance of fun events and teaching, we witnessed a very fruitful year with the amazing group of young people we are privileged to serve.  By opening our lives and our homes to the youth, God creates a spirit-filled environment that leads to growth in our focus areas: Prayer, Relationships, Academics, Integrity, Service, and Evangelization (together, we P.R.A.I.S.E.).” 

Chad and Doris also ran the Bezalel Project.  Named after an Israelite that God gifted with artistic and creative skills (Exodus 31), Bezalel is an after-school program for elementary and middle school youth that engages in the arts and other creative outlets.  The couple is working with some of the talented youth there to create their own entrepreneurial projects. Shown below, the Bezalel group took a trip to downtown Detroit for some ice skating last winter.

YouthWorks-Detroit also runs an Urban Encounter program.  On these short-term mission trips, groups of high schoolers, collegiates, and adults have the opportunity to serve the elderly, youth, homeless, and homebound in the city.  Serving in this way is not only an opportunity for them to bring Christ to those in need but also an opportunity for Christ to open the eyes and change the hearts of those who “come and see.” (John 1:39-46), said Chad.  He also explained that through a complete urban mission experience, missionaries serving in Detroit are encouraged to re-examine their views of culture, tradition, race, economic class, and other issues involved in urban life.  After experiencing Detroit as a mission field, “Urban Encounterers” are encouraged to hear God's call for them as individuals for a life of Christian mission.  Chad and Doris attended their  first Urban Encounter in 2010 while students at Huntington University in Indiana. They feel it changed their lives, and God led them to his service.

During the recent summer, Chad and Doris planned and completed Detroit Summer Outreach.  For two  months college age men and women (approx. 18-23) live and serve in Detroit, while receiving Christian information to prepare them for a life of mission. Chad feels these Interns, who  give two months of their summer over to deep discipleship, learn the true meaning of fullness of what God has for them and learning to live a life poured out on mission for Christ by  sacrificing luxuries, and receiving training in youth work and urban issues.  After a couple weeks of training, the summer Outreach participants dove into the  summer ministry programs: Bezalel Project, Mercy Team, and the StreetTeam Leadership and Job Training program.

Shown below: a glimpse of the StreetTeam men’s backpacking weekend in Manistee National Forest.

Chad and Doris are into their 2^nd year in Detroit, and if you would like to support YouthWorks-Detroit,  please Visit https://www.crowdrise.com/YouthWorks-RiseDetroit to make a donation!

Chad is the son of Randy and Colleen (Sites) Shellabarger of Rockford. Chad is a 2009 Parkway graduate. Doris grew up in Germany in the Black Forest Region. They attended Huntington University together, both graduating in 2013. They have been married 1-1/2 years.

Retirement, Promotion and Appointment announced at Mercer Health

John Hoying has announced his retirement as the MED Foundation Director at Mercer Health.  Hoying has served in his role for over six years.  Mindy Kremer, current Marketing Coordinator at Mercer Health, will be promoted to Director of MED Foundation, Marketing and Communications.  Kremer has been with the organization since 2011 and has ten years’ experience in healthcare marketing and communications.  Kremer lives in Coldwater with her husband Scott and their three sons.  In addition, Deb Hemmelgarn has been appointed Community Relations Coordinator for the Mercer Health organization.  Hemmelgarn is the former Executive Director at the American Red Cross of Mercer County and has former experience in managing successful fundraising events.  Hemmelgarn lives in St. Henry with her husband Bill and their four children.

 
November 15-16, 2014
 

Midwest’s Hottest Blair Carman and the Belleview Boys in Concert  
on November 15 
Blair Carman and The Belleview Boys, an amazing Rock ‘n’ Roll act out of Cincinnati, OH will be featured at The Rockford Belle on Saturday, November 15 at 7 PM. Doors open at 6:00 PM. A high energy show sure to take listeners down memory lane- Blair and his band will perform authentic 1950’s style Rock’n Roll/Rockabilly tunes ranging from a repertoire of original songs to include classics from Elvis Presley to Carl Perkins, Hank Williams, Jerry Lee Lewis, and many more! The public is invited to attend this performance located at 135 Market Street, Rockford, OH and experience one of the Country’s Hottest Acts. A free-will offering will be accepted. 

Put together the 1957 hands of Jerry Lee Lewis and the 1957 look and energy of Elvis Presley and what do you get? A piano pumpin', thumpin rockabilly kid named Blair Carman who no matter where he goes always receives rave reviews and leaves fans enthralled and wanting more.

Piano player and singer, Blair Carman, has exhibited his passionate musical drive across the USA and Canada. His talent and professionalism has given him the opportunity to perform in a wide variety of venues by opening for artists such as Three Dog Night, Trace Adkins, Marty Stuart, Jeff Bates and Hank Williams Jr.’s Bama Band. Blair has also shared the same bill with legendary performers Jerry Lee Lewis, Charlie Daniels, and Wanda Jackson.

His music has been enjoyed by audiences at ballrooms, casinos, theaters, riverboats, and festivals. A sampling of venues performed include the John F. Kennedy Center and the Spanish Ballroom (Washington D.C), Clarendon Ballroom (Arlington, VA), U. K. Grand Center Ballroom (Lexington, Kentucky), Orpheum Theater (Galesburg, Illinois),  Beale on Broadway (St. Louis, Missouri), Little Nashville Opry  (Nashville, Indiana),  International Rockabilly Hall of Fame (Jackson, Tennessee), Oneido Casino (Greenbay, Wisconsin).American Queen Riverboat (Vicksburg, Mississippi), Lakeside Hotel Casino (Osceola, Iowa), Mystic Lake Casino Hotel (Prior Lake, Minnesota), and Bobby Mackey’s (Wilder, Kentucky). 

Blair has been on several local radio and TV shows and recorded twice at Sun Records Studio in Memphis, Tennessee.  

Blair Carman’s outstanding talent has been recognized by Jerry Lee Lewis. He accepted an invitation to attend and play piano at Jerry Lee Lewis’s 75th Birthday Party, and later was in included in a book written about the artist; at the end of the book, Blair Carman is thanked for continuing the legacy of Jerry Lee Lewis's Rockabilly Music. 

A must-attend event at The Belle on November 15 for [what will become] a rare and intimate appearance to see the band described as the “Midwest’s Hottest Piano Pumpin’ Rockabilly Band.” Visit the band's website at www.blaircarmanband.com for music, videos, photos, and more! For more information about this event contact Tom Rogers at 567-644-9993.        

Christmas in the Park
Shanes Park - Rockford, OH ~ November 30th, @ 7 pm

JOIN US AS WE LIGHT UP THE NIGHT !!

Get in the holiday spirit as the Village of Rockford celebrates
Christmas in the Park on November 30th, 2014 at 7 pm at
Shanes Park.

This inaugural event will include the lighting of twelve different
Christmas displays, with musical accompaniment from our
community members.

Cookies and hot coca will be served.

* Parking located at the Rockford Community Building.

Sponsored by the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

 
November 14, 2014
 

Parkway FFA Attends Hockey Game

On Friday November 7th, 15 Parkway FFA Students headed to Columbus, Ohio to see an Ohio State hockey game and to learn about Ohio States collage of food and agriculture. Before the game, students went to a presentation put on by Ohio State to inform them of all the opportunities that the collage had to offer. Even though Ohio State lost, the students still enjoyed themselves. Students all agreed that it was an educational opportunity and a lot of fun to watch Ohio State play hockey. 


 

 

On Tuesday November 11th, 4 Parkway FFA memebrs traveled to Kalida, Ohio to participate in the Sub-Districts Job Interview CDE. Members who competed were Kayla Wall – senior, Taylor Hesse – junior, Maggie Houts – sophomore, and Laura Barrett – freshman. Each participant was to come prepared with a cover letter, their resume, and references. Once the girls arrived they were asked to complete a job application then they went to an interview. After the interview they had to write a follow up letter. Taylor Hesse and Maggie Houts placed 1st. Kayla Walls 3rd, and Laura Barrett 4th. Good job to all of these girls. Taylor and Maggie will move on to districts on Thursday November 20th, good luck Taylor and Maggie!

 
November 13, 2014
 

Sheriff’s Department Makes Another Heroin-related Arrest November 12, 2014

Sheriff Grey’s Department announced the  arrest of Andrew Hesse, age 33, Leona Street Celina. The information came from an informant and provided enough information for a search warrant at 245 Leona Street. At 3:32 PM officers from Celina Police Department and the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office executed the warrant with  the help of a K9 from Celina Police Department. Evidence ollected was over 20 capsules containing what is believed to be heroin, cash, and a spoon and syringe. In the house they found Hesse, his girlfriend and her 17 year old daughter (a juvenile), which could enhance the charge. The prosecutor’s office is reviewing this.

Bond was set by Celina Municipal Court Judge James Scheer at $100,000 subject to 10%, meaning he could be released on $10,000.

Sheriff Grey is pleased to announce that the heroin door hangers that were announced last month have resulted in 24 tips so far.  They have been distributed in Mobile Home parks on SR 703, East of Celina, in Mobile home parks on the south side of the lake, in Mendon, and in Coldwater.  The Celina Police Department is partnering with the Sheriff’s Department to distribute the door hangers in Celina very soon. The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office Heroin Unit and the Celina Police Department heroin investigators have joined forces and created a “HIT” team or Heroin Interdiction Team.

Computers have been placed in Celina PD and Mercer County SO that are linked to share drug information  Deputies and Celina Officers will be working side by side both in Celina’s jurisdiction and the Sheriff’s jurisdiction to battle not only the heroin problem, but the drug abuse issue in general. They are working closely with Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine’s Office to set up a community group to assist the group as Sheriff Grey puts it, “ We know we can’t arrest our way out of the problem.”  The message from the Sheriff’s Office and Police Department is that drugs are high on our radar screen.

Said Sheriff Grey, “There is help available in the community for those who have addiction and need help, but they need to seek it before we arrest them.  We have phone numbers on the heroin hangers for where they can seek help. Those arrested will have help available but they will have to face the consequences of court action. The message is:  we are tired of it.  We have worked it hard in the last few years and we are stepping it up another notch. The Sheriff’s Office and Celina Police Department are proud to form one more partnership to keep our citizens safe!”

OPEN HOUSE SET

The Calvary Preschool’s annual Open House is set for Tuesday, December 2, from 6:00 –7:30 pm.  It is being planned for you to come and visit the

classrooms at your convenience.  The two activities in the fellowship hall on Tuesday evening will be a DVD of happenings of the preschool students from the beginning of school through Thanksgiving, as well as cookies, punch and coffee being served by the Calvary Evangelical Church Elders.  Parents, relatives and friends are welcome to attend.  The boys and girls have been busy making special decorations for this event. The staff wish all a very Merry  Christmas!  May Christ be the center of your celebration this year!

Teachers are:  Mrs. Issa Ickes, our three year old teacher;  Mrs. Julie Stewart is the four year old teacher;  Mrs. Vicki Chavarria  teaches older fours & five year olds and Mrs. Marilyn Agler is the administrator.  We still have openings for this school year for 3’s, 4’s & 5’s that turned 3, 4 or 5 by August 1st.  Call the church office @ 567-259-3103 and ask for Marilyn Agler.  The church is located at 10686 Van Wert-Decatur Road in Van Wert.  Calvary Preschool has a facebook page @ Calvary Preschool Van Wert.

Red Ribbon Week Celebrated Across the County

Picture Caption: Winners of the 4th grade Grocery Bag decorating contest at their Red Ribbon Week Skating Party at the Rollardome in St. Marys—L-R: Fort Recovery: Gentry Clark, Parkway: Macy Johnson, Celina: Andrew Hines, St. Henry: Nolan Fullenkamp, Coldwater: Karla Kunk, Marion: Maddie Goodwin. Not pictured Carter Hellwarth, IC School

The Mercer County schools took part in Red Ribbon Week from October 27-31st. All Mercer County schools (grades K-12) participated in Red Ribbon week in some way or another. Activities ranged from a dress-up spirit week, facts on the announcements, a health fair, wearing Red Ribbons, among other activities.

Foundations Behavioral Health Services teamed up with all 7 local elementary schools to have a Grocery Bag decorating contest for the 4th graders. The theme this year was “Love Yourself: Live Drug Free.” 5 finalists from each school were chosen, and a winner from each school were recognized on Thursday, October 31st at a skating party at the Woodland Rollerdome in St. Marys for the Mercer County 4th graders. The 7 winners were Gentry Clark (Fort Recovery), Macy Johnson (Parkway), Andrew Hines (Celina), Nolan Fullenkamp (St. Henry), Karla Kunk (Coldwater), Maddie Goodwin (Marion Local), and Carter Hellwarth (IC). Each winner was presented with a $25 Chamber of Commerce gift certificate donated by the Mercer County Elks. Grocery bags decorated by area 4th graders were returned back to the local grocery stores to hand out to their customers during and after Red Ribbon Week. Participating stores were Chief (Coldwater), Friendly’s Markets (Celina), Wayne IGA (Fort Recovery), Winner’s Meats (Osgood), and Gels IGA (St. Henry).

The other finalists included, from Celina: Alex Cluckey, Kaylee Eischen, Isaiah Sutton, and Dakota Young; from IC School: Kira Dirksen, Olivia Grieshop, Dane Herman, and Taylor Kingshirn; from Coldwater: Kendra Clune, Jenna Leugers, Courtney May, and Brooke Stammen; from Fort Recovery: Allysen Fullenkamp, Brookelyn Jutte, Amy Stammen, and Caitlin Weitzel; from Marion Local: Erin Bergman, Abby Buening, Allison Everman, and Owen Rindler; from Parkway: Abby Baltzell, Emiree Knittle, Ashton Stephenson, and Brooke Stephenson; from Saint Henry: Leah Heitkamp, Anna Lange, Emily Selhorst, and Audrey Wendel.

Special thanks goes out to the local school principals, guidance counselors, and art teachers and others who helped the students design their bags, as well as the Elks, the Rollardome, the local grocery stores (listed above), and all others who contributed to make Red Ribbon Week a success.

The red ribbon symbolizes a continuing commitment to reducing the demand for illicit drugs in our communities. In 1985, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent Enrique S. "Kiki" Camarena was killed by drug traffickers. Shortly after Camarena's death, citizens from his hometown of Calexico, California, began wearing red ribbons to remember him and commemorate his sacrifice. Congress established Red Ribbon Week in 1988.

Red Ribbon Week gives us the opportunity to be vocal and visible in our efforts to achieve a drug-free community. Research shows that children are less likely to use alcohol and other drugs when parents and other role models are clear and consistent in their opposition to substance use and abuse.

All Mercer County High School students who are interested in participating in youth-led prevention efforts are invited to the next S.T.O.P. (Students Teaching Others Prevention) Gathering on December 8 in the Coldwater High School CAV room from 7-8:30 pm. This group consists of youth who come together and learn about ways to stand strong in their belief not to use alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, as well as help prevent bullying and suicide. On March 7, 2015, the S.T.A.R. (Students Teaching About Resistance) Retreat will be held for Mercer County middle school students. You must be an active S.T.O.P. group member to be a leader at this awesome youth-led event!!! Other leadership and volunteer opportunities will also be made available through the S.T.O.P. Group.

For more information about prevention programs, please contact Laura Sanford, Prevention Coordinator at Foundations Behavioral Health Services at 419-584-1000 or lauras@foundationsbhs.org

ROCKFORD RECREATION ASSOCIATION OF ROCKFORD, OHIO EARNS $2,500 FROM LIBERTY MUTUAL INSURANCE FOR PLEDGING COMMITMENT TO SPORTSMANSHIP

Rockford Recreation Association Will Use Pledge Funds towards Facility Improvements and Equipment Upgrades

ROCKFORD, OHIO (November 7, 2014) – In a few short weeks, fall sports seasons across the country will conclude, and for Rockford Recreation Association of Rockford, Ohio, this season will be one to remember.  Liberty Mutual Insurance recently announced that Rockford Recreation Association will receive $2,500 as part of its Play Positive Pledge™ program.  Over the course of the fall season, Rockford Recreation Association rallied its parents, coaches, and supporters to visit PlayPositive.com/Pledge and confirm their commitment to promote good sportsmanship.  This effort enabled the group to earn one of 10 awards given to youth sports organizations around the country.

“We appreciate the opportunity to participate in the Play Positive program this season, and our organization will continue to promote the qualities of good sportsmanship and positive character in all of our recreational programs,” said Ryan Thompson of Rockford Recreation Association. “We are so thankful to receive this $2,500 from Liberty Mutual Insurance – it will allow us to make facility and equipment upgrades without the need to increase registration costs of our participants.” 

Liberty Mutual Insurance introduced the Play Positive Pledge to shine a light on the value of sportsmanship and instill a renewed spirit in positive play in youth sports.  A recent Liberty Mutual Play Positive survey of 2,000 coaches and parents identified a perceived decline in sportsmanship since their days as youth athletes.  Parents and coaches considered “teamwork” and “sportsmanship” the two most important lessons learned through youth sports; yet approximately 50 percent of parents and coaches believe that sportsmanship in youth athletics is worse today than when they participated as children, compared to only 12 percent who feel it has improved. 

“Liberty Mutual Insurance believes that the experiences and lessons learned at a young age serve as the foundation for the future,” said Anthony Storm, senior vice president and Chief Marketing Officer, Liberty Mutual Personal Insurance.  “We are proud to applaud Rockford Recreation Association, as well as the Rockford community for pledging their commitment to sportsmanship, integrity and an overall positive experience in youth sports.”

Liberty Mutual Insurance Play Positive, formerly Liberty Mutual Responsible Sports, has supported local youth sports since 2007 with resources, tips, and funding.  More than 250 youth sports teams, organizations and school athletic departments have received nearly $700,000 to help improve the youth sports experience.  This school year, Liberty Mutual will provide a total of thirty $2,500 Play Positive Pledge awards during the fall, winter and spring sports seasons to help improve their local youth sports experience. 

The winter Play Positive Pledge season will open November 15 and continue through January 15.  Teams and youth sports organizations can pledge their commitment to sportsmanship and rally the support of their communities by visiting PlayPositive.com/Pledge. 

About Liberty Mutual Insurance Play Positive™

Liberty Mutual Play Positive™ is a community-based program providing resources, tools, tips and advice for volunteer youth sport coaches and sport parents.  Powered by Positive Coaching Alliance, the Play Positive™ program offers parents and coaches constructive tips, expert advice and practical examples to help create a positive sports environment for children.  Liberty Mutual also has provided more than $700,000 in grants to youth sports teams, organizations and schools for community participation in the online Play Positive curriculum.  Liberty Mutual is proud to support youth sports organizations, including ASA Softball, US Youth Soccer, USA Hockey, U.S. Ski & Snowboard Association, USA Softball, U.S. Speedskating, USA Volleyball, USA Water Polo, and USA Wrestling.  To access the Play Positive resources, visit www.PlayPositive.com.

About Liberty Mutual Insurance

Liberty Mutual Insurance helps preserve and protect the things people earn and own and build and cherish.  Keeping this promise means we are there when our policyholders throughout the world need us most. 

In business since 1912, and headquartered in Boston, Mass., today Liberty Mutual is a diversified insurer with operations in 30 countries around the world.  The company is the third largest property and casualty insurer in the U.S. based on 2013 direct premium written as reported by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.  Liberty Mutual also is ranked 76th on the Fortune 100 list of largest corporations in the U.S. based on 2013 revenue.  The company employs over 50,000 people in more than 900 offices throughout the world. 

The fifth-largest auto and home insurer in the U.S., Liberty Mutual (libertymutual.com) sells full lines of coverage for automobile, homeowners, valuable possessions, personal liability, and individual life insurance.  The company is an industry leader in affinity partnerships, offering car and home insurance to employees and members of more than 14,000 companies, credit unions, professional associations and alumni groups.

Liberty Mutual Insurance is the Official Property and Casualty and Life Insurance Partner of the 2014 and 2016 U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Teams. 

House of Hope Open House Planned
There are a lot of good things going on in Mercer County to combat Heroin/Drug issues.  The community is coming together to battle this problem. One effort for helping people with shelter and support is the House of Hope at 4874 Mud Pike, Celina, OH.  The public is invited to an Open House on Saturday, November 15 and Sunday November 16 from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. It officially opens on December 1, 2014.

Click Here for the Parkway Junior High
Boys and Girls Basketball Schedules in PDF Printable Format

Click Here for the Parkway High School
Boys and Girls Bowling Schedules in PDF Printable Format

Click Here for the Parkway High School
Boys and Girls Basketball Schedules and the Chatt Insurance Holiday Tournament
in PDF Printable Format

Click Here for the Parkway Wrestling Schedules

 
November 12, 2014
 

Nikki Fox Released the Schedule of Winter Sports Pictures for Parkway
WEDNESDAY November 12th---High School Sports Picture Day (HS gym)

3:20-4:15 High School Girls Basketball

4:15-5:00 Boys basketball team (Varsity, JV, and then freshmen)

5:00 Senior picture

5:10-6:00 Wrestling and Bowling

6:00-6:30 Cheerleaders

THURSDAY November 13th---Junior High Picture Day (JH gym)

3:30-4:45 BOYS junior high basketball

4:45- 5:30 Cheerleaders

5:30-6:30 Junior high GIRLS basketball

OUR OLD BOOK CASE

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

Photo caption:  The first replica of a fort was constructed in 1936, in memory of the Indian Wars of the 1790’s and the U.S. Military Fort Recovery.

Tuesday, November 11, Veterans Day was celebrated this week.  As I thought about the Veterans in Mercer County, my mind went back to the battles in the 1790’s at the site of Fort Recovery.  As I grew up in Fort Recovery, I wanted to know the facts of what happened in those battles. 

In 1989, I asked the following six Ohio History Scholars to write about the Indian Wars between the U.S. Army and the Native Americans in the 1790’s:  Miami Chief Floyd Leonard, his son Dr. Joseph Leonard, Dr. Phillip Shriver, Miami University; Dr. Dwight Smith, Miami University; Professor Randall Buchman, Defiance College, and Dr. George Knepper, University of Akron.  I asked these Scholars to document the source of their research with footnotes, not only in academic history books, (not fiction) and with the Department of Indian Affairs, and original diaries of the Veterans of those battles.  This book has been used as an academic reference by those interested in the Indian Wars:  The title of the book is “Native Americans and Early Settlers; The Meeting of Cultures, 1780’s – 1980’s.”   

However, books by U.S. Historians often wrote about Veterans of the U.S. Army.  The U.S. Army, led by General Arthur St. Clair was defeated by Chief Little Turtle and many Indian Tribes on November 4, 1791.  On the 24th of December 1793, General Anthony Wayne marched from north Cincinnati, Ohio with about a thousand men.  Wayne’s men went to the ground where St. Clair was defeated and erected a fort on that site, named Fort Recovery.  On the last day of June 1794, the Native Americans attacked Fort Recovery, but were repulsed with considerable loss on both sides.   

I researched information about the Veterans who fought with the Native Americans.  This is one story I found in the book, “History Auglaize County, Ohio, with the Indian History of Wapakoneta, and the First Settlement of the County, published by Robert Sutton, at Wapakoneta, Ohio in 1880.  “There was a great stir in town, (on the Auglaize River) about an army of white men coming to fight the Indians.  The squaws and boys were moved, with the goods, down the Maumee River, and there awaited the result of the battle, while the men went to war.  They met St. Clair and came off victorious, loaded with the spoils of the enemy.  Big Cat left the spoils at the town and came down to move us up.  We then found ourselves a rich people.  His share of the spoils was two fine horses, four tents, one of which was a noble ‘marquee,’ which made us a fine house, in which we lived.  He had also clothing in abundance and of all descriptions.  I wore a soldier’s coat.  He had also axes, guns, and everything to make an Indian rich. These Indians numbered probably 1000 warriors and were led, not by Little Turtle, the Chief of the Ottawas, as was generally supposed, but by the famous Mohawk chief, Brant, who had 150 Mohawk braves with him.  Of the warriors engaged in this battle, the Delawares furnished 400; the Shawnees (who afterward lived at the Wapakoneta Reservation) furnished about 300; the Miamis, who lived about Fort Wayne, 100; the Wyandots, 150; the residue being from the Pottawatomies and Ottawas.  The leaders and principal warriors of the Shawnees were Blue Jacket and Captain Johnny, and the Shawnees were the tribe whose voice was always still for war.”  The name “Big Cat,” was not a common name in local history.  Henry Clay Alder, in his book, “A History of Jonathan Alder; His Captivity and Life with the Indians,” which was edited by Larry Nelson, Manager of Fort Meigs State Memorial, 2002, made a reference to “Big Cat,” on page 195:  “John Brickell was captured in 1791 and adopted by Whingwy Pooshies, or Big Cat.  Brickell lived with Big Cat on the Auglaize River a short distance from its confluence with the Maumee from May 1791 until June 1795.”  (Remember the 1795 Treaty.)

Today, Native Americans come to the Mercer County Historical Museum and ask me how to find information about their ancestors, i.e. Veterans of the Indian Wars in the 1790’s.  I wonder if there is a Veterans’ Day for Native Americans.  That is another subject for research in Ohio’s history.

 
November 11, 2014
Veterans' Day
 

HAPPY VETERANS DAY!
WE THANK YOU AND APPRECIATE YOU!

PARKWAY COMMUNITY BOOK FAIR

November 17- November 21, 2014 continuing through November 24- November 25, 2014

The Parkway Local Schools Libraries will host a special Book Fair from Scholastic on November 17th – 21th continuing through November 24th and 25th, during school hours and on the evenings of November 24th and 25th. Funds from the Book Fair will provide new books and technology for the students of the Parkway School District.

The Book Fair will be open each day from 8:00 to 3:00 and from 4:30 to 8:00 during Parent-Teacher Conferences (24th &25th).  The Book Fair will feature a wide variety of books ranging from elementary students to young teens and adults, including mystery and adventure novels, fantasy series, sports guides, graphic novels, and the latest bestsellers from more than 100 publishers. Parents, children, teachers, and the community are invited to attend. 

Fair attendees can also help build classroom libraries by purchasing books for teachers through the Classroom Wish List program. This Book Fair will be a great chance to promote the love of reading by providing reading material that the students in your life will enjoy reading.

87th National FFA Convention

Taylor Hesse at ffa@parkwayschools.org

On Monday October 27th, the Parkway, Coldwater, and St. Henry FFA Chapters loaded a bus and headed for St. Louis, Missouri. The chapters arrived at their destination around 10pm and had a nice night’s sleep. They then woke up and toured Purina, Anheuser-Busch, and the St. Louis Arch. The next morning they toured Monsanto and then headed for the 87th National FFA Convention in Louisville, Kentucky. The next morning, the chapters woke up bright and early to go to the Opening Session and got to see fellow FFA member, Taylor Hesse play in the National FFA Band and heard keynote speaker Nick Vujicic. After that they went to Squire Boone Caverns and got to walk through the caves. Later that night, the students went to the Buckeye Bash where all Ohio FFA Members hang out and dance that night of convention. The next morning the students went and toured Hawks View Glass Blowing and got to see a piece being made. That afternoon students were able to walk around the Career Show and Mega Store. Later that evening they sat in on the 7th General Session and was able to see Taylor play again. The next morning the chapters went to watch former FFA members, Tommy McDonough, Lindsey Walls, Caden Hellwarth, and Tyler Matthews receive their American Degrees. The chapters then picked up Taylor Hesse and headed back to Ohio. The students all agree that is was a very memorable week and that they had a great time!

Rockford Chamber Decorators Are Readying Shanes Park

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring Christmas at the Park on Sunday

November 30th at 7 pm. Save the date for the lighting ceremony, food, music and getting in that Christmas spirit!

Martial Arts Tournament Coming to Parkway high School on Saturday, April 25, 2015
The Stone Tiger Challenge Martial Arts Benefit Tournament to benefit the Cancer Association of Mercer County date has been set. Bigger Venue than last time with great Trophies and Awards.Please put this date in your calendar and come join us in helping out a great cause and enjoy yourselves at an awesome event. Sparring, Weapons, Empty hand Kata, and Grappling

Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) coming to the Lake Campus in 2015

CELINA, OH - Wright State University - Lake Campus, in conjunction with the Wright State University - Miami Valley College of Nursing and Health, is pleased to announce a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) program will begin in the fall of 2015 at the Lake Campus. The BSN program is four academic years in length and prepares students who are eligible to sit for the Registered Nurse National Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). This program will be designed as a cohort for qualified students coming directly from high school.  The program will be selective and highly competitive.

Nurses care for individuals and families from birth to death in local as well as international communities.  Workplace environments can include newborn nurseries to elderly care facilities and school clinics to the World Health Organization. A nursing education prepares you students to participate in research to that improves the health of people and health care practices.

Wright State University-Miami Valley College of Nursing and Health is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) and is also approved by the Ohio Board of Nursing. 

“We are thrilled to make the dream of a nursing program at the Lake Campus a reality. In every Regional Summit we have hosted, we have heard engineering, business and nursing were the top priorities in this area," states Lake Campus Dean Bonnie Mathies. “As stated in the mission of the Lake Campus, we will continue to respond to the needs of the communities in west-central Ohio."

Within the past 5 years, the Lake Campus has added bachelor’s programs in agriculture, business, criminal justice, engineering, and food science.  Information about the new nursing program will be available at our open house on Thursday, November 20, 2014 from 4-7pm. For more information on our exciting new degree program, please contact Lake Campus Student Services at 419.586.0300. Please visit our website at http://lake.wright.edu to register for the open house.

 
November 7-10, 2014
 

Ryan Sipe Becomes Rockford Chamber 2014 Citizen of the Year

Ketcham’s Funeral Home – Marcia Ripley, Owner, Becomes Rockford Chamber 2014 Business of the Year

by Sheila Baltzell and Stacie Ford
The Rockford Chamber of Commerce held their 41^st Banquet at the community Building on Thursday, November 6, 2014.

Following a social time and a delicious meal, the program began with Chamber Master of Ceremonies Pete Hayes welcoming everyone.  Larry Sielschott led the prayer. 

Several businesses were recognized:
New Owners: Picket Fence; Tastee Twirl; Eve's Chatt Bar; Rockford Carry-Out.
New Business: WRKD Radio - Jim Crocker
Longevity Celebrations:
Brand It Marketing Communications - 10 years
Parkway Independent - 10 years
Subway - 10 years
Fox Photography -15 years
Gourmet by Kristi - 15 years
D & L Classic Woodworking - 25 years
Henkle Insurance - 50 years
First Financial Bank - 150 years
Ketcham Ripley Funeral Home - over 150 years

Then the moments all had been wondering:

Congratulations to Ryan Ronald Sipe, a most deserving Rockford Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year for 2014.  Ryan has his heart fully involved in the community of Rockford. Here is why.

He was born in 1974 to the late Ronald and Marcia (Eichnauer) Sipe, whose families have a long history in Mercer and Van Wert counties.

They raised Ryan and his two brothers (living in Willshire and Rockford areas)  in St. John’s Lutheran Church Hopewell, and he was confirmed there at the age of 14. His faith continued through high school as he joined Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Students Against Drunk Driving. He was an active fan of the Parkway Baseball team which went on to become State Champs in 1991.

Ryan enjoyed country life and the boys spent many hours on a baseball field built on their front lawn. Ryan was a natural leader and grew to love the sport although he loved basketball as well. He learned sportsmanship through these activities.

The tragic loss of his father to a car accident in 1986, when Ryan was just 12,  would become the impetus to him in spearheading the flashing stop sign development at the intersection of 49 and 707 through ODOT (Ohio Department of Transportation). Project finalization would come 20 years later, after dedicated pursual.

The blessing of a stepdad completed the family; Dennis Hoffhines was and is still a loving provider and listener. Together this family blended with Ryan and his two younger brothers, Scott and Carey, gaining two older sisters Rachael and Renee, from this union.

Following graduation from Parkway High School in 1993 , he completed an Associates Degree in Business Computer Applications, two years later, and  graduated from Northwestern Business College in Lima. His first job was at at TuWay Manufacturing in Rockford and then Community First Bank & Trust in Celina. Later he went to work at The People’s Bank Company and eventually took over the reins from retiring Bob Thompson. He  is currently employed as Branch Manager at The People’s Bank Company’s Rockford office.

On October 5, 1996 he married Kelly McMillen and together they have two daughters, Mackenzie Ann and Ashtyn Ryann. The girls are skilled athletes due to coaching by their Dad who has coached 11 teams over the years. Ballpark projects, coaching, and “Ohio Fury” team travel have occupied his time.

Ryan enjoys farming, four wheeling, hunting, and camping . He is involved with these activities: community Club and Board Memberships include Rockford Carnegie Library, Lions Club, Chamber of Commerce, Rockford Eagles, and Rockford Recreation Association.

His leadership and dedication have made a dream a reality at Shanes Park, and continues a legacy that every family can enjoy in the future.

Congratulations Ryan Ronald Sipe on becoming 2014 Citizen of the Year.

See another related article below the pictures:

Ryan Sipe ~ Shanes Park and More

Ryan Sipe’s involvement in expanding Shanes Park made him a perfect choice for the Rockford Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year for 2014, according to Mike Bruns, winner of the awrad last year and head of the committee to name his successor. Mike said at the Chamber Banquet after presenting him with the award, “He has worked many years with the Recreation Board in one position or another. His hard work and dedication have turned our ball diamond and concession area from average to first class for a village of our size. Starting  a few years ago with remodeling the concession stand he has been the driving force in the  many improvements since.  A few to list are the addition of the 2 north diamonds, diamond lighting, the concession stand patio area and tables, the planting of many trees in the park, the addition of sidewalks, the batting cage etc. and the list goes on.  There is a lot of behind the scenes work and effort that goes on in order to get these tasks done. He has had the leadership to get things done and has dedicated many hours to this cause and still is working hard for the Park and Rec program. He also has been on local boards in the area including the Rockford Carnegie  Library and  Leota Braun foundation. In ending he has been active in our community especially the Rec board for many years and still going strong.” 

Ryan Thompson, who works closely with Ryan Sipe on the Recreation Board compiled this list of details about him:

Ryan Sipe has served as a Rockford Recreation Association Board member since 2002; serving as treasurer since 2005.

During this time, he has also coached over 15 different Rockford Recreation Association summer teams.

During his time as a board member, Ryan has led the effort to establish and grow the Shanes Park Legacy Fund through the Leota Braun Charitable Foundation. His lead in these fundraising efforts have made significant park improvements possible at Shanes Park while he has been an active member; including:

 

2006 – Concession stand expansion and equipment room addition

2010 - Diamond Lighting Project

2011 - Updated underground drainage system on Diamond #1 & #2

2011 - Tree Project - donations were made to plant over 70 new trees at Shanes Park

2012 - Diamond #4 Dugouts & Sidewalk Project

2013 - Diamond #3, #2, & #1 Dugouts & Sidewalks

It is estimated that his fundraising leadership effort over the past 12 years has raised over $350,000, through donations and grants, that has been committed to improvements at Shanes Park and the growth and continued success of the Rockford Recreation Association. 

Future Vision:

 

Install new home run fencing on Diamonds #1 & #2

Extended sidewalks and walking paths

Expanded parking accessible from North St.

Development of Diamond #5

Construction of a new equipment storage facility

Program Statistics

 

An average of 300 kids (ages 4-14) participate in summer baseball/softball/t-ball/coach pitch teams through the Rockford Recreation Association each summer.

In 2013, Rockford hosted the most summer ball teams ever - 29 different summer teams!

Nearly 150 games are played on the baseball/softball diamonds at Shanes Park each year

Teams travel from as far as 70 miles away each year to play in tournaments hosted at Shanes Park.

At the peak of the summer ball season, an average of 5.6 games are played every Monday-Thursday night in Rockford.

On the busiest summer nights, it is estimated that nearly 1,000 people visit Shanes Park in a single evening.

Over the past five years, fall sports program registrations have increased 400%.

In 2013, Rockford Rec added a fall youth soccer program that has had 90 participants (ages 5-12) for two consecutive years.

For four consecutive years, over 60 kids (ages 6-13) have participated annually in the flag football program.

Rockford Recreation Association collects a total of nearly 500 registration forms for kids ages 4-15 to participate in our spring, summer, and fall programs every year.

Jack Hartings, President and CEO of The Peoples Bank Company Congratulates Ryan Sipe

Ryan has worked for The Peoples Bank for almost 9 years.  I always knew Ryan would be a great community banker because of his passion and empathy for the betterment of the Rockford Community. Ryan is not afraid to dig in when a job needs done and makes his decisions on what’s best for the customer or the community.  I don’t know if Ryan spends more time in the bank or on the ball diamonds, or in the bleachers at a volleyball match, but he always has on his Peoples Bank hat, and we are honored that he is on our staff  and very proud of his service to the Rockford community. Congratulations Ryan as Citizen of the Year.

In conclusion, Kirby Stetler praised Ryan because they worked closely to gather signatures on a petition to urge the Ohio Department of Transportation to make the intersection of State Routes 707 and 49 west of Rockford and north of Chattanooga safer. The scene of many fatalities, including the death of Ryan’s father, led the two to ask for blinking lights or something to make drivers aware. In  2006, Ryan’s and Kirby’s persistence was rewarded with the ODOT installation of  stop ahead and stop signs that are enhanced with solar/battery-powered flashing Light-Emitting Diodes (LED) that to this day make it a safer intersection.

April 2006 ~ Marcia Ripley Speaks at Shanes Crossing Historical Society
Published on Parkway Independent in April 2006
by Sheila Baltzell

At the April 2006 meeting of the Shanes Crossing Historical Society, held in the Rockford Methodist Church, Marcia Ripley, descendent and fourth generation funeral director of the Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home in Rockford, spoke to a group of 30 members. At left Marcia displays the contents of the "tool" kit for morticians back in the days of her  Grandfather Thomas Ketcham

She recently closed the furniture-flooring store on Main Street and relocated all of her business activities (she had been there 32 years) to the Ketcham Ripley Funeral home on First Street in Rockford. She moved into a bigger office and actually moved the Ketcham-Cotterman Safe, as well.

What she remembers about the furniture store is that it actually started in Mercer and was later moved to Shanes Crossing, Ohio. She does not know if her Great-grandfather William Ketcham started or bought it, but does remember her Uncle Ralph and Grandfather Tom Ketcham working in the second floor mortuary/preparation room with the furniture and flooring business on the first.  They were cabinet and casket makers, and she remembers Grandma Ethel Ketcham running the store and visitation as well. The prep room was eventually built at the current location of the funeral home which was also where Grandmother Ethel lived.

She was recently honored by the National Funeral Directors' Association for over 100 continuous years in service in their family with a plaque this past summer of 2005.

Gene Barna (left) visited the store during the close-out and move and reminisced about the restaurant he owned across the street, where the Rockford Fire Station now sits. He and Marcia were looking at the old elevator that moved bodies and caskets up to and down from the second floor prep room. The elevator has a huge wheel that was pulled by a rope woven by the late Rockford  resident Pete Temple. Gene and Marcia agreed that the thick rope, woven from twine, was an art form. Gene was one of the many individuals who helped at the furniture store and funeral home when needed.

Marcia's dad, Carl Ripley, joined the company and became a licensed furneral director along-side his wife, Lucille Ketcham Ripley. Carl was a veteran of WWII and the Korean War. He was a Marine. He added the flooring business and worked with John Deitsch, who had been with Ketcham's for 40 years having begun there part-time in 1954.  At right he works on flooring at Marcia's home as Marcia's daughter, Devon Stansbury watches.

Come and See What State Line Writers Club is all About
The Stateline Writers Club will meet from 10 am to Noon on Saturday, November 15, 2014, at the Mercer County District Library. The writing assignment for the meeting is to write a second-hand story or a story that has been told to you. The public is welcome to attend.

Donations of Shoes Requested for Developing Nations
Family Health Care of Northwest Ohio Launches Shoe Collection Drive

Shoe donations will also support micro-enterprises in developing nations and reduce what goes into landfills

Family Health Care, a non-profit company, is conducting a shoe collection drive starting on November 3.   Family Health Care will earn funds based on the number of pairs collected as Funds2Orgs will purchase all of the donated goods.  Those dollars will benefit Family Health Care’s patients. Anyone can help by donating gently worn, used or new shoes at Family Health Care, 1052 S. Washington Street in Van Wert.

All donated shoes will then be redistributed throughout the Funds2Orgs network of microenterprise partners in developing nations.  Funds2Orgs helps impoverished people start, maintain and grow businesses in countries such as Haiti, Honduras and other nations in Central America and Africa. Proceeds from the shoe sales are used to feed, clothe and house their families. One budding entrepreneur in Haiti even earned enough to send to her son to law school.

“We are excited about our shoe drive," said Jenny Smith, Director. "We know that most people have extra shoes in their closets that they could donate to us and help those less fortunate become self-sufficient.  Family Health Care will use the earned funds to help cover the cost of our uninsured clients that pay a minimum fee for their office visits. It’s a win-win for everyone”.

By donating shoes to Family Health Care, the shoes will be given a second chance and make a difference in people’s lives.

Local organizations interested in learning more about conducting a shoe drive of their own can visit Funds2orgs.com.

Kremer's  Guns at 122 Hamilton St, Celina OH is now open on Sundays 11-4 during November and December
See the ad above for details. Thinking of a Christmas Gift for the man in your life? Kremer's sells gift certificates.

Stephanie Pabis Named  Athlete of the Week at Roger Williams University
PORTSMOUTH, R.I. – The Roger Williams University Equestrian team notched its first win of the season (on November 3, 2014), taking first place at the team's home show.

With the win, Roger Williams moves into first place in the region, moving nine points ahead of Becker College. Stephanie Pabis finished the day as High Point Rider , taking first place in Novice Fences and Novice Flat in the weekend home show for the Hawks.  She is a sophomore,  studying for a degree in Criminal Justice, and has been competing with the equestrian team for two years. Involved in riding since the age of 5, Stephanie works hard and was thrilled over this honor. She is the daughter of Paul Pabis and Holly Patrice Wood of Rehoboth, MA, granddaughter of Virginia Wood of Celina and niece of Sheila Baltzell of Celina and Colleen O’Steen of Huntsville, AL.

Team Results
1. Roger Williams University – 43 pts
2. University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth – 34
3. Johnson & Wales University – 28
4. University of Rhode Island – 27
5. Becker College – 26
6. College of the Holy Cross – 23
7. Brown University – 21
8. Clark University –17
9. Rhode Island College – 15
10. Salve Regina University – 13
11. Assumption College – 11

 
November 6, 2014
 

Town Hall Christmas in Mendon
The Festival of Trees is enjoyed every year in Mendon at the Town Hall. There will be Christmas trees beautifully decorated, a visit from Santa Claus, delicious food and much more.
Save the date for December 5th and 6th!

 
November 6, 2014
 

The Rockford Chamber is pleased to announce the November Business of the Month is ....
The Peoples Bank Co,  located at 100 N Main St. in Rockford.  

The Peoples Bank Co. has been part of the Rockford community long before they opened the branch on Main Street in 2001.  We are grateful to have such a strong customer base in Rockford and the surrounding area. The Peoples Bank Co. is a local independent community bank and our success is directly related to meeting the financial needs of the individuals, farmers, and small businesses in the communities we serve. The staff of the Rockford branch takes an active role in the community they so proudly serve. This active role empowers them to provide professional banking solutions to businesses and individuals. 

"We are honored the Rockford Chamber of Commerce has chosen The Peoples Bank Co., Rockford branch as Business of the Month for November."  Ryan Sipe, Assistant Vice President and Rockford Branch Manager stated this afternoon.  

Congratulations ! Thank you Peoples Bank for supporting your Rockford Chamber!

Pictured:  Deb Rollins, Kay Shaffer, Ryan Sipe - Assistant Vice President, Rockford Branch, Jane Cozad - Chamber President, LuAnn Sigler and Linda Standiford.

Rockford High School  Class of 1959 - 55th Reunion  Held June 7, 2014

Front Row: Julie Smalley Long, Esther Schmidt Coleman, Jean Shindeldecker Giese, Nancy Carr Temple, Carolyn Shaffer Jamieson, Kay Kettering Thomas, Linda Pierstorff Zsembik, Betty Grossnickel Felver, Bonnie Brehm Barna

Second Row: John Runyan, George Weinman, Jerry Rutledge, Larry Sapp, Tom Ransbottom, Mark Rutledge, John Hileman, Ernie Felver

Top Row: Keith Kable, Jon Binkley, Bill Fritzinger, Roger Jamieson, Jerry Luth, Dave Binkley, Stan Hunter, Jim Provci

 
November 5, 2014
 

Remember the Rockford Eagles Fish Fry and Chicken Strips Dinners
on Friday, November 7, 2014 from 5-7 PM.
Members and Guests only. Good Food! See ad above for details.

Rockford Chamber of Commerce Banquet

You're Invited ~  to the 41st Annual Rockford Chamber Banquet to
be held on Thursday, November 6th at the Rockford Community
Building - Shanes Park.

Social time begins at 6 pm.  Meal at 6:30 pm and program begins
at 7:15 pm.  

Entertainment by Triad, Meal by Angelina's Catering
Business Attire - Cost is $18 per person. 

Who will be the Citizen of the Year?  Who will be the Business of the Year?

Make reservations today ~ by calling 419-363-3032 ext 1 or by
email to lisa.kuhn@rockfordohio.org

 
November 3-4, 2014
 

“The past is a source of knowledge, and the future is a source of hope.  Love of the past implies a faith in the future.”    Stephen Ambrose

OUR OLD BOOK CASE

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

Many Mercer Countians value the fact that the Mercer County Historical Society works to preserve their heritage.  They recognize that a Nation which forgets its past, has no future.  Today’s local history story is an update of communication from our friends of the Mercer County Historical Society.

Gerald (Mort) Ward, Post Quartermaster, VFW Post 5713, Celina, asked permission to put the story of Bill Brown being honored by receiving the World War II Honors in Florida from the Governor, on their VFW Post 5713 Website since Bill was a former Post Commander.  Those requesting Bill Brown’s current address, it is 1651 Campos Dr., The Villages, FL 32162.  That makes me proud that our Military Veterans in Mercer County are interested in preserving Mercer County’s Military History.

Alvin Braun called me after he had read my article about the Bounty on Wolves, and about the Buck Bader Story being on exhibit on Sunday, October 26 at the Military Exhibit by the Museum of the Soldier, at the Mercer County Historical Museum. Braun told me about over 975 coyotes being killed in the four County area, these past years.  I invite Coyote Hunters to this Exhibit on Sunday, the 26th.

Karen from Rockford, called, that she has a gun with the name of P.P. King, Celina, on the stock.  The book, “Ohio Gunsmiths & Allied Tradesmen,” by Donald Hutslar, listed Philip P. King at Celina, 1845-1885.  In 1885, Philip King was listed as a gunsmith at Shane’s Crossing (Rockford).  I asked Karen to bring the gun to display at the Antique Gun Show at the Museum, Sunday, the 26th.   Two Van Trees were gunsmiths at Fort Recovery in the 1800’s; one of the Van Trees’ guns will be on exhibit on the 26th.

Mercer County Auditor Randy Grapner asked me to review the rough draft of the new brochure for the Mercer County Courthouse.  In the past, people often repeated the error that the Courthouse columns support Corinthian Capitals; In fact, the columns support Ionic Capitals.  (See the photograph above.)  Another error passed down is that the front doors are solid bronze. . . what do you think? 

Kelly Newcomb, Celina Middle School Teacher, requested information on the history of Celina.  I emailed her a list of 28 books which the Mercer County Historical Society has published, and made suggestions related to the many research topics her students could seek, in reference to local history.

Robert Tong, Findlay, Ohio, does research on the Gas Boom and related Glass Factories in Western Ohio.  He sent me a copy of his manuscript about The Celina Colored Plate and Window Glass Company and The Celina Star Glass Works, in the early 1890’s.  Do any of you have information about this topic?

Thanks to Sharon (Moeder) Spears for enlightening the Basketball Fans about Mercer County Basketball History, by sharing information, in the Daily Standard, from former Basketball Coach and Historian Fran Guilbault, as to why St. Henry adopted the name “Redskins,” when her Grandfather Julius Moeder was the first St. Henry Basketball Coach.  (The name “Redskins” was not about Native Americans!)

Thank you to everyone who contacted me about the article in the local news media, about the Mercer County Historical Society being one of the organizations on the Celine Combined Services Appeal and local Combined Drives.  I have been with the Mercer County Historical Society for over forty years, and I cannot tell you how much the Combined Drives have helped this Historical Society reach its Mission Statement:  To Preserve Mercer County History and To Educate the Public about that History.  I am proud to live in Mercer County where people value their past and want to preserve their heritage with the Mercer County Historical Society, and the Mercer County Historical Museum, the Riley Home.

Remember to Vote on Tuesday, November 4, 2014.

Village Council Meeting Minutes for October 7, 2014 - Click Here
for news on the new subdivision, holiday plans for the village, weed and junk code enforcement,
liquor license motion and much more.

Click Here for Van Wert County Common Pleas Court Cases Heard for October 2014

 
November 1-2, 2014
 

Parkway Shining Star Awards Given for September 
Submitted by:
Suzann Litteral
Parkway Elementary Guidance Counselor

Parkway Students are nominated, by their teachers, for showing healthy social interaction and responsible school choices.  These actions might include for grades 3-5: making positive choices; respecting others; being responsible; showing compassion; being fair, honest, and cooperative; and developing good self-esteem.  For grades 1 & 2: good listening skills, organization, being responsible, completion of homework, and following directions. 

Congratulations to these Shining Stars:

Pictured above: 4th grade- Allison Hughes & Aaron Cron  and 3rd grade- Breanna Berry & Jacob Winget

Pictured above: 2nd Grade- Best Listener- Kaitlyn Rager, Zoey Henning, Gracy Laux, & Rylee Vann

Most Responsible- Meah Suzuki, Roxlyn Bell, Creeden Knittle, & Landon Hamrick

Awesome Organizer- Kierrah Weitz, AJ Taylor, & Amanda Barrett

#1 Homework Completer- Ethan Tuttle, Shay Boroff, Adria Miller, & Brayden Bruns

Fabulous Follower of Directions- Xavier Samples, Elizabeth Winget, & Jeremiah Collins

Pictured above:

1st Grade- Best Listener- Jaden Wenning, Zavier Rissener, Jordyn Schaefer, & Miley Crouch

Most Responsible- Taylor Muhlenkamp, Luca Winters, Haley Perry, & Megan Nichols

Best Effort- Kayden Dale, Zac Myers, Logan Butler, & Cooper Clay

Hard Worker- Brittyn Bruns, Christina Tong, Payton Frese, & Josiah Neff

Fabulous Follower of Directions- Natalie Moeller, Carlee Barna, Analicia Velez, & Kyndra Thornsberry

See other Elementary School events by clicking here.

Jeff Burton Coming to St. Henry

An Evening for Race Fans with Jeff Burton is Friday, 
November 28th at Romer's in St. Henry.   Proceeds of this event are shared with State of the Heart Hospice, Community Health Professionals Hospice, and the Chamber. 

Panther Sportswear Fund Raiser Orders Runs Till November 20, 2014 – Order Now!

It's that time again! The annual sportswear sale is back! The Parkway sophomore class is selling Panther sportswear items. Order forms have been passed out in all elementary and middle school homeroom classes. Forms are also available in the middle school and high school offices.

There is also a link on the Parkway Local Schools website so forms can be printed off. The website is www.parkwayschools.org. Under “Our District News” there is a link for the “Annual Sportswear Sale”. Click on that link to find the order form. Orders will not be accepted via email so please have the form filled out with the correct money amount and turned in to Mrs. Agler in the middle school office by Thursday Nov. 20th.

Orders can be picked up in the middle school office the December 16, 17, 18 or they will be delivered to the student. If you have any questions feel free to call Mrs. Agler, sophomore class advisor, in the middle school office at 419-363-3045, ext. #740 or email her at aglerm@parkwayschools.org.

A display is set up in the display cases just outside the high school and middle school office doors. Items are also available to size/try on in the middle school office. Items are non-returnable so please check on the sizing to ensure proper sizing. Sportswear makes great birthday and Christmas presents. Please help support the sophomore class as they raise money for Prom and Graduation by purchasing some Panther sportswear items.

Click Here for Van Wert County Common Pleas Court Cases Heard for October 2014

Parkway Middle School Honor Roll ~ End of 1st Quarter 2014-2015 – Click Here for their names!

Parkway Local Schools November Calendar of Events - Click Here
By  Lisa Miller
Athletic / HS Attendance Secretary
Parkway Local Schools

Christmas in the Park Coming Soon!

The Village of Rockford is planning a beautiful lighting display to ge you in the holiday spirit. Coming on Sunday, November 30 at 7 PM will be the lighting of 12 different holiday themed displays with musical accompaniment by community members. Cookies and Hot Cocoa will be served.

OUR OLD BOOK CASE

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

Photo caption:   This is an old Post Card photograph of the Mercer County Jail, 1876 – 1939, which was located at the southwest corner of Main and Livingston Streets, Celina.

On the second Sunday of November, November 9, 1:00 – 4:00, the Mercer County Historical Society is hosting the 13th Annual Post Card Exhibit at the Mercer County Historical Museum, 130 East Market, Celina.  The public is invited to bring their old Post Cards and ask the Collectors about them.

The extensive collection of old Post Cards of Mercer County and Grand Lake St. Marys Post Cards of Bob and Sharon Poor will be on exhibit Sunday, November 9.  Dale Poeppelman also will have his fine collection of Post Cards, and historical articles about the C.H. & D. Railroad, etc.  The Railroads, which delivered the U.S. Mail to local Depots and the Local Post Offices are a part of the November 9 exhibit.  David Gray will be showing his Mercer County Post Mark Collection, and envelopes with lithographs of Mercer County Businesses.  On exhibit will be books, photographs, and historical files about the Railroads, Rural Free Delivery, the Narrow Gauge Railroad, Electric Trolley of Northwest Ohio, histories of old Post Offices in Mercer County, including local Post Offices which were closed over a Century ago.

The Delphos Museum of Post History is one of three museums in the U.S. dedicated to postal history.   For information about the Delphos Museum, contact Gary Levitts, 339 N. Main St., P.O. Box 174, Delphos, OH 45833; telephone:  419-303-5482, or mphdelphos@gmail.com .  The Ohio Postal History Society has published articles in the “Ohio Postal History Journal,” about Mercer County’s Post Offices. Alan Borer, Editor, can be contacted at 568 Illinois Ct., Westerville, OH 43081  aborer2002@yahoo.com

Betty Kuhn sent me this email.  “There was a picture posted on Facebook of a jail on Main Street.  When was it torn down?  I have a vague remembrance of one on the corner of Main and Livingston.  I had remembered seeing it as a child.  I recall standing with my Grandfather and observing it on the corner of Main and Livingston.  I don't remember what it looked like.   I just remember that he said that it was the jail, I would have been only 6 at the time it was torn down.”

To provide the information about the history of the old Mercer County Jail, I referred to the book, I wrote for the Mercer County Commissioners for the 75th Anniversary of the Mercer County Courthouse in 1998:  “Mercer County’s Courthouses, 1824-1998.”  This book was published by the Mercer County Historical Society, and should be available at local libraries, or via “Inter-Library Loan.” 

“March 24, 1875, plans and specifications for a new Mercer County Jail and Sheriff’s house was let April 30, 1875, which were prepared by T.J. Toland & Son, Delphos, Ohio, and awarded to E.W.Wilson of Van Wert,Ohio for $25,500 on March 6, 1875.  March 8, 1876, the Jail was ordered to be heated with steam, and the contract was awarded to C. Buehler & Co. of St. Marys for $935.  When the present Courthouse was dedicated in 1923, photographs of the new Courthouse were taken, while the old 1868 Courthouse stood on the lawn at the South side of the front of the Courthouse, and the 1876 Jail stood on the North side of the Courthouse, facing Main Street.  The 1876 Jail was used until 1939, when the Mercer County Jail was built on Livingston Street, across the street on the North side of the Courthouse.”

I invited Betty to attend our November 9 Post Card Exhibit because old Post Card Photographs of the 1876 County Jail are a part of the vast collections of Bob and Sharon Poor and Dale Poeppelman.  Facebook Post Card Collectors are also invited to show their Post Cards Sunday, November 9.

Rockford Chamber Business of the Month Announced
Congratulations to New Horizons Community Church

Marie Miller, Chamber Vice President,  Dave Souers . Lead Pastor @ New Horizons, and Jane Cozad - Chamber President are shown.
New Horizon Church has been chosen as the Rockford Chamber October Business of the Month.  New Horizons is located at 833 S Main St. in Rockford.  
  
Pastor Dave has been serving as the Lead Pastor at NHCC since February of 2014. New Horizons is a place where you will find a relaxed atmosphere, upbeat music, and messages from God’s word. We strive to make you feel a part of our family, and hope that you will join us at either service on Sundays at 8:30 am or 10:15 am.   New Horizons offers Kidzone, Pioneer Club and Wired Youth Ministries for children and young adults.  
Thank you New Horizons for supporting the Rockford Chamber  The chamber
website is rockfordalive.com and we can be found on Facebook "Rockford Ohio Chamber of Commerce".  
  

Belle Entertainment in Rockford

The Rockford Belle will host John Brodbeck and Linda Youmans on Saturday, November 1, 2014 at 7 PM.

They are both Country and Christian singers. There is a free will offering.

Mandy Barnett Coming to Portland

She will sing on Saturday, November 1st, 2014 at the Arts Place, Portland Center Hall-Moser Theatre 131 East Walnut Street Portland, IN 47371

Willshire Youth Activities Fun Night

Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 15th.  The Willshire Youth Activities will be sponsoring an evening of fun at the Willshire American Legion, Post #207.  Homemade soup and sandwiches, including many “concession stand favorites” will be available.  A 50/50 raffle, cake walks, corn hole, shuffleboard, pool, as well as many other live raffles and even a time for some auction items will be going on throughout the evening.  Fun and food will be available for all ages.  Plan now to join in on this time.  All proceeds from the evening will be used to support ball park activities and improvements.  Your support will be appreciated.  The food and fun will begin at 5:00 PM.  For further information, please contact Lynne Miller at 419.203.1976.

Celina Police Department – Shooting News Release: 10-27-2014 

On October 26, 2014 hrs at 0243 hrs Celina P.D. officers responded to a report of shots being fired at 417 N. Brandon Av., Celina.  It was found that someone had fired 7 rounds into the residence from a handgun.  Heather Dorsten and Robert Kennedy live at the residence with two young children.

During the course of the nightlong investigation probable cause was developed to obtain search warrants for the person of Danny L. Williams and his residence at 751 Deford St., Celina.  Officers collected residue from Mr. Williams’ hands to be tested for gunshot residue.  From his residence two firearms were seized pursuant to the warrant.  One of those firearms is consistent with evidence located at the crime scene.

Danny Williams did resist the search warrant and did struggle with officers during the subsequent arrest.  Patrolman Brian Taylor did sustain apparent minor injuries during the struggle.  Williams is being held at the Mercer Co. Jail on a $75,000 cash bond on misdemeanor charges.  Felony charges are pending review of the Mercer Co. Prosecutor.

**Dorsten, Kennedy and the children were home at the time.

**Felony charges were filed this date, including: 2 counts Felonious Assault (F2), 1 count of Improperly Discharging a Firearm into a Home (F2)

 
October 30-31, 2014
 

Panther Revue Coming on Sunday, November 2, 2014

The Parkway High School Choir Panther Revue, a favorite event in the Fall, will be held on Sunday, November 2, 2014 at 3 PM. The audience will enjoy light  refreshments during the entertainment which will be held in the Commons.

Parkway November 2014 Breakfast & Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Parkway Committee Members Reviewing Challenged Book

At the Parkway School Board meeting in October 2014, a book that had been a reading assignment for the entire freshmen class, came under fire by Jeff Armstrong, a parent of a freshman in the class. The book, The Freedom Writer’s Diary written by Erin Gruwell and her high school students in California, was assigned by Ms. Jessica Rolfes, a new teacher to the Parkway School system. She teaches the freshman English classes and had previously taught the book at a high school in South Carolina. Ms. Rolfes sent a letter home to parents of the Parkway freshmen explaining a controversial issues with the book as well as her goal of teaching literary devices through the text. There was much discussion at the board meeting. Later in the week, after the school policy on book challenges was reviewed, Jeff Armstrong was notified that a formal complaint was needed so that a special committee could be convened. He filed that complaint with high school principal Brian Fortkamp. The committee will read and make their recommendations to the school board at a future date. Ms. Rolfes was informed by the board that another book was to be assigned while the book in question is under review.

Parkway Schools issued a statement on Wednesday, October 29, 2014 Concerning Text Message Alerts

Rockford Library Has Renewal Levy on Ballot

Residents of the Parkway School District are reminded to vote next Tuesday, November 4th.  The library has a renewal levy on the ballot.  The money from this levy replaces the amount of money lost from the state.  The library needs these funds to purchase new materials and provide services such as copies, faxing, free internet and computer use.  All voters in the Parkway School District will be voting on this levy except for those living in Van Wert County and the village of Mendon.  The homeowner of a $100,000.00 home would pay approximately $25.00 in taxes per year.  For more information contact Bob or Rozann Maurer at the Rockford Library, 419-363-2630.

 

Open Arts Meeting at the Rockford Carnegie Library

On Monday, November 3rd at 7:00 there will be a meeting for people interested in the arts in Mercer County.  The meeting will be led by Ralph Stuckman representing the new ad hoc arts committee composed of  Barbara Vorhees, Judy Brewer, Phil Long, Tom Knapke, and Glenn Hux. Please
contact them for additional information, if desired.  Here are discussion points:
… learn what has been done.
…give input and ideas
…give names of artists willing to exhibit
…know about initial programming.
... give information on Rockford area artists wishing to be in our data bank.
...identify artists moving out of this area
…question and answer time.

 

Any local artists or people interested in the arts are welcome to attend.

 
October 29, 2014
 

ROCKFORD UNITED METHODIST WOMEN’S FALL DINNER AND AUCTION TICKETS FOR SALE

The Rockford  United Methodist Church Women at   202 SOUTH FRANKLIN ST. ROCKFORD,  OH 45882
are busy planning their  Fall Dinner and Auction for Saturday,  November 22, 2014

They will be Serving  Dinners from  4:30-6:30 and tickets are now on sale!

Carry  Out or Dine in of these choice delicious meals:

Pork  Chop Dinner—$8 comes with baked potato, applesauce, roll,  cookie, and beverage

Or

Chicken  Dinner--$7 comes potato  chips, applesauce, roll,  cookies, and beverage

(Auction  will begin at  6:30)

Tickets  are available until November 13th at the following Rockford
Businesses: Henkle  Insurance, His  ‘n Hers,  Rockford  UM Church office
(419-363-3230) or contact any Rockford UM Woman.

All proceeds donated to Missions.

 
October 28, 2014
 

Local Viet Nam Veteran Takes 6th Ride in the American Legion Legacy Run

Recently Bob Maurer of Mendon, Ohio participated in the 9th annual Legacy Run sponsored by the American Legion Riders.  This  was the 6th time for Bob to participate.  Bob is a member of the Celina American Legion Riders Post 210. He is also a Veteran of the conflict in Viet Nam.

This year’s run traveled from Indianapolis, Indiana with overnight stops in  Pikeville, KY, Danville, VA, Gastonia, NC,  Buford, GA, and Kings Mountain, NC. The run covered 5 days. Over 1300 miles were traveled in all types of weather from heavy rain to very high temperatures.  Over 500 motorcycle riders participated.

American Legion National Commander Daniel Dellinger and Sons of the American Legion National Commander Joe Gladden  also participated.

The Legacy Run raises funds for the American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund.  This fund was established to provide scholarships for children who have lost a parent on active duty since 9/11. The American Legion provides all of the administrative expenses so that all donations made will be placed in the fund.

This year’s goal was to raise $450,000.  At the end of the run $947,450 had been raised. However, in exciting news,  the American Legion Charities board voted later to donate enough to make the total of donations an even $1 million dollars. Bob proudly pointed out that the American Legion and the Legion Riders are behind their Legacy Run contributions all the way.

Each year Bob has written the name of someone from the local area who is currently serving in either Iraq or Afghanistan.  This year, Bob instead wanted to pay tribute (and ride in the name of)  to SSG Sonny Zimmerman who lost his life on July 13, 2013 while serving in Afghanistan. 

Bob also mentioned that he was thinking about the Legacy Street sign that is shown in two of the pictures here which wa donated by the Charlotte, Michigan Legion Riders who rode on the trip. The sign was auctioned off and Bob was lucky to win the bid. It meant a great deal to him because he has
a link to Charlotte, MI.  As he said, “My mom's uncle Charlie left Charlotte in 1917 and was seriously wounded in WWI.  My great-uncle served as the Commander of the Charlotte Legion Post in 1938. I am so pleased to have this sign.”

Above pictures: Bob won the bid for the Legacy street sign auctioned.

Below: Bob paid tribute to local late serviceman Sonny Zimmerman (shown written on his windshield).

More information and pictures of this year’s event can be found at www.legion.org or www.legion.org/riders.

Donations to the scholarship fund are still accepted.

Contact Bob Maurer
bmaurer@rcpubliclibrary.org
419-238-6863

EMILY CLOUSE, FORMER CELINA STUDENT AND PEACE CORPS VOLUNTEER, SPEAKS TO HISTORY CLASS

Emily Clouse, Celina High School graduate of 2006 and Ohio State University graduate of 2010, recently finished a two year program in the Peace Corps. Serving in Uganda, Africa, Emily worked with women in their local hospital, educating them on health issues for themselves and their families.  She is back in the United States and has taken a job in Chicago continuing her career in social work. Emily stopped by Celina High School History Teacher Wally Ellinger's history classes recently. She gave a talk complete with power point pictures and then fielded questions from the students, who enjoyed her visit.

To learn more about Emily's work in Africa click on the Palmetto Hospital Blog from Africa:

http://www.palmettomedical.org/you-have-all-our-thanks-emily-clouse-kugonza/

Emily is the daughter of Parkway graduate - Jon and Betty Buckloh Clouse of Celina and the niece of Jack, Bill, and Tom Clouse who all live in the area and are Parkway graduates.

 
October 27, 2014
 

Bright Star Award Goes to Jane Cozad

The Rockford Chamber's 'BRIGHT STAR" award sponsored by NOACC - (Northern Ohio Area Chamber of Commerce) - is Jane Cozad - President of the Rockford Chamber and owner of The Healing Hand - located at 142 N Main St., Rockford.

Jane has been the Rockford Chamber President for 3 years.   Jane is an asset in helping the Chamber be a vital part of the Rockford Community.  She is committed to supporting our local businesses.  

Jane will be honored on Wednesday - October 29th at Club Velvet at the Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield Park.

Congratulations Jane !

Soup Supper Planned

The Mercer United Methodist Church is having an All You Can Eat Soup Supper Saturday Nov. 1, 2014 from 4:30 – 7:00 pm. We are located 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; BBQ Pork & Chicken Sandwiches, Hotdogs, Coney Dogs, Deluxe Salad Bar and delicious Homemade Pies and beverages.  Cost is $7.00 for adults 13 & up, kids 4-12 $3.00 and kids 3 and under free.

We are also having a Bake Sale during the Soup Supper.  There will be homemade noodles, Angel food cakes, Fudge puddles, cookies, pies, etc.

ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT VARIOUS MISSION PROJECTS

Soup and Sandwich Supper Planned 

Soup and Sandwich Supper will be held on Friday, November 14, 2014
from 4:30-7:30pm.

The public is invited at St Teresa Catholic Church 4227 State Route 707,
Rockford, Ohio

The menu includes chili, chicken noodle soup, sloppy joes and creamed
chicken, hot dogs, chili dogs, veggies and desserts
Dine in or Carry out.
Free will donation will be accepted. Proceeds benefit Parkway Ministerial
Association, St Teresa Youth Group and local charities.
Donations are also being accepted for the FOOD or FUNDS DRIVE to Parkway
Food Pantry through the month of November.
Raffle Drawing will be held to benefit the Religious Education Program of
St Teresa Parish.

BECOME AN OSU EXTENSION MASTER GARDENER VOLUNTEER THIS WINTER

The Master Gardener Volunteer (MGV) Program is a national and international organization designed to provide opportunities for gardening enthusiasts of all types and levels to acquire training in numerous aspects of gardening and landscaping, to develop long-lasting friendships with other MGVs, to learn from other MGVs, and to provide an outlet for those who wish to serve their communities through a unique form of volunteering.  Ohio State University MGVs work together with The Ohio State University Extension to provide such services to their communities as answering gardening questions, beautifying the community, developing community or demonstration gardens, and other horticultural activities.

Applications are being accepted for the MGV Training Class of 2015. OSU MGVs are initially given 50 hours of training on information pertaining to gardens, landscapes, plants, diseases, insects and more!  But the training does not stop after the initial training programs.  Opportunities for many types of continuing education are provided through multiple training programs offered through OSU Extension both locally and statewide.  After the training class is completed, new MGV interns are to provide 50 hours of volunteer service to the community as volunteer educators. Even though this sounds like a lot of time, it is not difficult to fulfill this requirement.  In fact most quickly exceed this number long before the end of their first year of service.

Van Wert County MGVs have developed The Children’s Garden, located in Smiley Park on Old Tile Factory Road in Van Wert to provide an outdoor learning lab for children of all ages.  Additional projects include: an annual plant sale, semi-annual garden tour, The Garden of the Senses in downtown Van Wert, and more.

The Orientation Meeting for MGV training for Van Wert County will be held on Thursday, January 22, at 6:30 p.m. at the OSU meeting room on the fairgrounds, 1055 South Washington St, Van Wert, OH Training will be held each Monday and Thursday from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. January through March 12, 2015.  All classes will be held  at the OSU Extension Office in Van Wert, OH

Classes will cover a multitude of topics including: Basic Botany, Soil Science, Fruits and Vegetables, Diagnostics, Herbs, Annuals and Perennials, Trees and Shrubs, Entomology, Houseplants, Landscape Maintenance, Plant Pathology, and Pesticide Safety and Use. 

For more information on cost and how to obtain an application for the MGV program in Van Wert County contact Curtis E. Young at 419-238-1214 or email at young.2@osu.edu.

CALL Food Pantry’s “Backpack Program” ~ a Great Charitable  Idea for Giving
by Sherry Shaffer
As we enter the final two months of the year, the time has come for many of us to consider our charitable giving for the year, and I’d like to encourage you to give thought to the CALL Food Pantry’s “Backpack Program” this year.

Every two weeks during the school year, volunteers pack approximately 540+ bags of food to send home for the next two weekends with students in grades kindergarten through fourth who are on the free lunch programs in Parkway, Celina, and St. Henry Schools.  The remaining schools in Mercer County have the option of participating if they wish.  The backpack program food bags include easy-to-prepare items for kids to fix for themselves when they are hungry during the weekend.  

 Many people find it hard to believe the issue of hunger exists in Mercer County, but it does, and just a small contribution will help cover the costs for the food items sent home with the children throughout the year.  Especially this year, approximately $7,500 is still needed to continue the program for the remainder of the school year.   Donations can be sent to CALL Food Pantry, 420 N. Brandon Avenue, Celina OH 45822.  Churches and philanthropic organizations are encouraged to consider helping sponsor food for these children in need as well.

Please consider a donation to the CALL Food Pantry, designated to the Backpack Program, for your charitable giving this year.

OUR OLD BOOK CASE

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

Photo caption:  Halloween Post Cards are at the top of the list for Post Card Collectors this weekend.

Happy Halloween; either you are planning a costume for Halloween or your are remembering the old Hay Ride Parties on Halloween!  Many of you have your candy dish out for Goblins  & Witches and Spider Man and other guests of other worlds this weekend.  Seeing children laugh is one of our finest hours.

How many of you collect Post Cards for Holidays?  I know very well that many of you Senior Citizens have your old Valentines tucked safely away in an ornate box, from years ago.  Do you also save your old Post Cards?  If so, bring them to the Museum and show them to us, on November 9th Sunday.

Sunday, 1:00 – 4:00, November 9, will be the 13th Annual Autumn Post Card Exhibit at the Mercer County Historical Museum, The Riley Home, 130 East Market, Celina.  The Museum is located one block east of the Courthouse.  The public is invited to see the Exhibit as well as bring their own post cards & ask the collectors for information. 

Post cards will feature scenes of Mercer County communities, as well as Grand Lake.   This exhibit will also include information about local Post Offices and the Post Marks from those “dead” or closed Post Offices in Mercer County’s rural communities, in addition to railroads crossing Mercer County, trains which delivered the local U.S. Mail, train depots, and train tickets.

We invite anyone who has post cards or photographs from Post Offices which are no longer in existence, to bring their cards to show the local collectors.  We invite anyone who has post cards or photographs with scenes of train depots and the trains which ran through Mercer County.

Do you know how to determine the date or age of the Post Card?  Look at the back of your Post Cards.  By 1907, the Post Office permitted the address side of the Post Card, to be split in two sides, so that messages could be written on the left side.  (If your card does not have the two sides on the back, your Post Card is older than 1907.  Of course, the date and Post Mark provide more clues about the date of your Post Card.  The messages are endearing.  So many messages read, “Having a great time; wish you were here.  We will see you soon.”  I smile every time I read one of those trite remarks.

I was asked about exhibiting Post Cards with scenes from the former New Idea Company at Coldwater.  Therefore, we invite anyone who has post cards related to New Idea Company to please bring them and show them on Sunday, November 9.  

Next week, I will share with you what the Collectors are bringing to this November 9th Post Card Exhibit.  The Collectors are Bob and Sharon Poor, Dale Poeppelman, and David Gray.  Other Post Card Collectors are invited to show their Collections, whether they have a half dozen Post Cards, or several dozen Post Cards. 

Photograph Post Cards are among the best methods of preserving local history.   Thank you to everyone who saves Post Cards, for helping To Preserve Mercer County’s history and To Educate the Public about that History.  Bring your Post Cards to the Museum on Sunday, November 9; we will look forward to seeing what unique Post Cards you have.

Calvary Preschool Visits Fire Department

Calvary Preschool students from Julie Stewart’s and Vicki Chavarria’s classes recently visited the Van Wert Fire Department. The students liked seeing the fire trucks up close and a fireman in all his gear.
Calvary Preschool is located at 10686 Van Wert-Decatur Road in Van Wert. There are currently a few openings remaining in the 4 and 5 year old classes. Contact Marilyn Agler for information at 567-259-3103. Check out the Calvary Preschool Facebook page to see students and teachers involved in activities.
Calvary Preschool is a Christian based preschool with a curriculum that prepares students for kindergarten, as well as teaching spiritual applications.

New Trees Planted in Rockford
The Rockford Tree Commission has been busy this past summer planning the
purchase of some new trees for the Village.   2 Varieties were purchased and
planted by the village employees include: Japanese Lilac and Red Horse Chestnut
There were a total of 15 trees planted on October 16th. 
Several at Shanes Park and the rest throughout the village.

RADC to Meet
The next RADC meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 27 at 7:30 in the Rockford Library basement. Brenda Barker will be our guest speaker for the evening and a representative from the Rockford Fire Departmet will be present to discuss the proposed wall mural for the Fire Department. 

 
October 24-26, 2014
 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mercer, Auglaize, & Van Wert Counties

It’s our 1st ever local spin on “Dancing with the Stars,” where community members step up as Dancers and Judges to raise money and awareness for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mercer, Auglaize, & Van Wert Counties. Local professional dancers have generously donated dance lessons to produce a spectacular dance competition. Event will be held at the Overdrive south of Celina.

Dancing with the BIG Stars will take place on Saturday, November 15, 2014. Our dinner performance has sold out, but if you would still like to participate in the festivities you can purchase a ticket for the matinee performance. The doors will open at 12:30 pm with the show beginning at 1:00pm. The cost is $20 per ticket and includes a beverage, snacks, and the performance.

If you can’t make the show that day you can support your favorite dancer by voting for them online at www.bbbsma.com and click on “Dancing with the BIG Stars” logo. Every vote is $5 and the dancer that raises the most money will receive the Big Star Award.  You can also join in on their extra fundraising efforts. To get updates about these great events like our Facebook page: facebook.com/bbbsmavw.  Our Star Dancers are Abby Balster, Pat Green, Rex Katterheinrich, Jeff Knapke, Pete Lisi, Ambyr Rose, Andy Schwieterman, and Shelly Vaughn.

All money raised will stay local and help make and support matches of our five youth mentoring programs. Mentors help these children to stay in school, off drugs, and away from violence. They also help children to boost self-esteem and learn how to deal with bullying and depression. Your support will make a BIG impact on your community. To enroll a child or become a volunteer call our office at 419-394-2990. 

 
October 22-23, 2014
 

Parkway Schools were on a two hour delay for Thursday, October 23, 2014,
then closed due to fog.

Halloween in Rockford
The Village of Rockford Trick or Treating hours will be from 6 - 7:30 pm on October 25th.  Judging at the
Firehouse will be at 8 pm.

Halloween in Ohio City
The Ohio City Park Board is proud to announce the date for their annual Halloween Party. The party will be held at the Ohio City Community Building on Saturday, November 1st from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am. The band “Section Ate” will provide music throughout the night and beverages will be available. The Park Board will also be offering free chili and an Ohio City-Liberty classic, peanut butter and lettuce sandwiches, along with other snacks. There will be prizes for several categories. We are also proud to announce that Anna Perry, local artist and Halloween enthusiast, will again decorate the community building. This is a great opportunity to go out and enjoy a FREE community Halloween party with a community atmosphere.

Trunk-r-Treat in Chattanooga

Trunk-r-Treat will be held in Chattanooga on Sunday, October 26th.  The event will be held at Zion Lutheran Church and will begin at 5:00 PM.  The community is invited to join in on this time of fun.  Vehicles will be parked in the parking lot and will be filled with treats.  Children can walk to the vehicles and get a treat.  Following the treats, all are welcome to gather for soups and sandwiches.  Costumes are welcome!  Zion is located at the corner of State Route 49 and Tama Road.  The event is being sponsored by Chattanooga United Methodist Church and Zion Lutheran Church.

Halloween in Willshire

Trick or Treat will be held in the village of Willshire on Saturday, October 25th from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM.  Registration for costume judging will be held at the southwest pavilion in the park from 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM.  Beginning at 6:30 PM, the Parkway High School Marching Band will provide musical entertainment for all to enjoy.  Costume judging will begin following the band performance.  Participants will be judged in categories based upon age.  Donuts, apple cider, coffee, and hot chocolate will be available for everyone to enjoy.  The evening activities are being co-sponsored by the Willshire American Legion and the Willshire Lions Club.

Halloween in Mendon

Trick or Treat will be held in the village of Mendon on Saturday, October 25th from 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM.   Costume Judging at the
Firehouse will be at 7 pm.

FFA Annual Fruit Sale

            It’s that time of year again, Parkways FFA Fruit sale is in full swing! Below

are the items that the chapter will be selling this year. To order fruit,

contact any Parkway FFA member, email parkwayffa@parkwayschools.org, or by

calling 419-363-3045 ext. 636. Order are due by November 10th and money is due

when fruit is delivered. Thank you for your continued support!

Fruit                            Full Case       Half Case      ¼ Case

Navels                         $32.00                        $17.00                    $10.00

Grapefruit                  $28.00                        $16.00                        $10.00

Tangelos                    $28.00                        $16.00                        $10.00

Fuji Apples                $30.00                        $16.00                        $10.00

Mix Box                      $34.00                        $18.00

Nuts

Honey Krunch                                              Two Cans Pack                    $10.00

Brittle Bits                                          Two Can Pack                      $10.00

Whole Cashews                                                                              $10.00                                   

Chocolate Almonds/ Cashews                Two Can Pack                    $13.00           

Trio Pack $13.00

D.B. Yummers BBQ Sauce

Sweet and Smokey BBQ Pack of Two                             $10.00

Mildly Spicy BBQ     4 pack ( 2 of each flavor)    $16.00                       

Smoked Snack Sticks (12-1 oz. sticks)

Sweet Pack $10.00             

Hot Pack        $10.00

Mild Pack $10.00

 
October 21, 2014
 

Henkle Insurance Donates to Rockford's New Radio Station 101.3 WRKD

The Henkle Insurance Agency of Rockford recently donated $700 towards the purchase of radio equipment to get WRKD 101.3 live and on the air. Currently the radio station is a web-based radio. A transmitter on a short tower at the station 
located in the Rockford Village Offices is sending the signal out for a test so far, as they are not on the air officially at Channel 101.3 on the FM Dial (for the Federal Communications Commission – FCC). However, they are streaming 24/7 at www.1013rkd.com which is free and works great! They have a mix of music on the stream that you are sure to enjoy with over 900 hits available. Tune-In Radio has an app for your phone, too. 

Jim Crocker and Bryan Stetler invite you to stream the station on line.  Currently Bryan is working on securing their own tower that will be placed at the city building allowing them to broadcast live on the radio sometime before the first of the year. The station is raising money so they can add the on-air portion of their services in the near future. For more information on how to donate to the Leota Braun Fund making the donation tax deductible, please Contact Bryan Stetler at the station phone number 419-363-3032. Click here for the station’s website http://www.1013rkd.com/  
Pictured above is Bryan Stetler (right) accepting the Henkle Insurance donation from Todd Henkle (left) owner of Henkle Insurance Agency.

Trick or Treat Safety and Mercer County Sheriff's Department

In Mercer County, there are approximately 68 registered sex offenders, and we want you to know where they reside so that you avoid those houses when trick-or-treating.  “We do the best we can in making sure sex offenders live where they tell us, so it is crucial that our citizens visit our website www.mercercountysheriff.org , to see who the registered sex offenders are and where they are living,” says Sheriff Jeff Grey.  Citizens are encouraged to check any addresses where they or their family spend time.  Sheriff Grey says, “The mapping and address feature found on the website pinpoints exactly where an offender lives.”

You will also find many other beneficial tools such as the ability to sign up for FREE automatic email notifications informing you if an offender moves within a specified radius of any address you register.  “If you aren’t planning on trick-or-treating in your neighborhood, but will be in a different neighborhood, register that address beforehand so you know which houses to avoid.  You can register any and all addresses where your children spend time; for example:  friends’ grandparents’, or babysitters’ addresses,” says Sheriff Grey.  The alerts are in real-time and sent out via e-mail as soon as a new offender has registered with the Sheriff’s Office.  Sheriff Grey says, “The benefit of registering for this free confidential e-mail alert service is that it allows us to monitor important addresses for you, thereby keeping you up-to-date of newly registered offenders and making it unnecessary for you to have to check important addresses daily or even weekly.”

The website for the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office is www.mercercountysheriff.org .  Citizens should click on the link “Search for Offenders, in your area,” and follow the instructions to check their e-mail alerts about nearby offenders.

Sheriff Grey encourages everyone to have a fun and safe Halloween.  Knowledge is power and knowing where the registered sex offenders reside in your area can help you make the best choices for safe and enjoyable Halloween activities.

For further information, please contact the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office at 419-586-7724.

Genealogy Group to Meet 

The Mercer County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society will meet Sunday November 2nd at 2:00pm.  The guest speaker will be Tom Risch of the Mercer County Veteran Services.  He has served as the Veteran Officer for the last 26 years, and is past president of the Ohio State Association of County Veteran Service Officers and as a member of the Executive Board of the National Association of County veteran Service Officers.  Risch is a veteran of the Vietnam War and a life time member of the Disabled Veterans.  He will be speaking on the Mercer County Veteran’s Office located in the Central Services Building. The group meets in the Richardson Bretz Building located behind the library in Celina.  The public is always welcome.

Mercer County D.A.R.E. Booster  Quarter Auction

The Mercer County D.A.R.E. Boosters Quarter Auction will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 9, 2014, at the Hopewell Grange building, Mercer County Fairgrounds (across from the grandstand).

Doors will open at 12:30 p.m. with the Hopewell Grange selling their homemade sandwiches and desserts. Homemade noodles will also be available for purchase. Refreshments will be available throughout the event.

Admission is $3.00 per paddle. Quarters are required to bid on individual auction items. Quarters will be available for purchase at the event.

Join us for a lot of fun and some early Christmas shopping! Tickets for the raffle drawing will also be available at the event. Tickets are $1 each or 6 for $5.        Mercer County D.A.R.E. Boosters want to thank “all county merchants” who have donated to this worthy cause—the students of Mercer County. A complete listing of all merchant donations will be issued after the event.   

The "Quarter Auction" is sponsored by the Mercer County D.A.R.E. Boosters.  All proceeds are used for Mercer County D.A.R.E. student activities, including 4th and 5th grade cup stacking, 5th grade D.A.R.E. graduation T-shirts, Senior D.A.R.E. luncheon, and graduating senior scholarships.  Thank you for your continued support of the D.A.R.E program.

Check the Mercer County DARE Boosters Facebook page for listing of merchants donating and for items up for bid!

DISASTER TASK FORCE MEETS TO DISCUSS EBOLA PRECAUTIONS
10-20-14, 3:30 PM

Approximately fifty people attended Monday’s Van Wert County Disaster Task Force meeting to learn more about local plans to respond in the event that the Ebola virus should be found in Van Wert County.  Although there are currently no confirmed cases of Ebola in Ohio, local officials are taking this opportunity to ensure that our community is prepared to defend against this serious health threat if necessary.  A meeting attendee who works in 15 Ohio counties commended Van Wert County for taking a proactive approach to this situation.  Like any other public health threat, if Ebola is eventually found in Van Wert County, the Van Wert County Health Department will be the lead agency in the response. 

“Van Wert County is well prepared”, stated Rick McCoy, local Emergency Management Director. “We have been preparing for situations like this for many years in developing response plans and exercising our readiness. Our local Health Department, County Hospital and EMA have been talking daily between agencies and with the State. I can reassure the public that we are monitoring the situation in Ohio and around the country and will be ready to respond immediately if the virus were to spread. If we as a nation can quickly isolate and quarantine Ebola, then we have the opportunity to end it quickly from affecting others”, he said.

Linna Kelly, Infection Preventionist at Van Wert County Hospital said, “Our team at Van Wert County Hospital, along with other Ohio hospitals, is preparing to diagnose and treat a patient with the Ebola virus in order to best protect our patients as well as our staff.  Initial staff education began in August and has been ramped up with the most recent developments.  We have an organizational pandemic plan, which was developed for dealing with diseases such as SARS, H1N1, small pox and the bird flu. This plan has been revised specifically for dealing with a potential case of Ebola. We have been working with staff regarding specific questions to ask, symptoms to look for, infection prevention, personal protective equipment as well as isolation protocol. Caring for our patients is paramount while ensuring the safety of our caregivers is in the forefront of our decision making.”

Dr. Paul Kalogerou, Van Wert County Health Commissioner, reported: “Our department is working closely with the Ohio Department of Health and is following the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control.  Our staff, health care agencies and first responders understand the importance of early risk assessment, which will help us provide prompt intervention and initiation of protocols.  We are fortunate to have in place experienced personnel and an established and tested emergency response plan.”

Ebola is a rare and deadly disease caused by infection with the Ebola virus.  It is spread by touching the blood or bodily fluids of a person who is sick with Ebola.  Recent media reports have said that the Ebola virus cannot be spread through the air.  This means that the virus does not live in the air, or remain there for long periods of time.  However, it is possible to contract the virus through contact with droplets of bodily fluid released into the air by the cough or sneeze of an infected person.  A person who is infected with the virus can’t spread the disease until symptoms appear.  Symptoms of Ebola include a fever higher than 100.4oF, severe headache, muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and unexplained bleeding or bruising.  Many of these symptoms mirror the symptoms of influenza, but are an increased concern in people who have recently traveled to West Africa or had close contact with a person infected with the Ebola virus.

Because there is currently no cure for Ebola, the only effective way of stopping the spread of the disease is through quarantine or isolation of sick individuals, and monitoring people who have come into contact with those individuals for symptoms of the disease.  Quarantine and isolation are two ways to prevent the spread of disease by keeping sick people separate from others who are healthy.  Monitoring simply consists of watching for symptoms in people who may have been exposed to Ebola.  These activities are currently being conducted in affected areas by public health professionals from local and state health departments, as well as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

It is important to remember that, while Ebola is a deadly disease, the probability of becoming infected by this virus is low.  A total of three cases of Ebola have been confirmed in the United States since the epidemic began in West Africa earlier this year, and one of these cases of Ebola infection resulted in death.  In comparison, the CDC estimates that over 53,000 people died from influenza and pneumonia in the United States in 2010.  To help answer questions from the public, the Ohio Department of Health recently opened a 24-hour call center.  For more information, contact the call center at 1-866-800-1404 or visit the Ohio Department of Health website at www.odh.ohio.gov.

Blood Drive Info

The American Red Cross will be holding a Blood Drive on
Thursday - October 23rd from 12:00 noon - 5 pm at
the Rockford United Methodist Church located at
202 S Franklin St.

Please call 1-800-RED-CROSS to schedule your
appointment today or go to redcrossblood.org, sponsor
code "rockumc".  

 
October 18-20, 2014
 

Van Wert and St. Marys Claim Top Spots in the TV-44 Whiz Quiz Tournament Seasons

Champions have been crowned in the TV-44 Whiz Quiz Tournament with Van Wert and St. Marys claiming top title in each respective tournament bracket. The annual televised event included 30 high school quiz teams, divided evenly  into two different brackets, each bracket with three days of competition until crowning a champion.

Bracket one, aka, the Fall Whiz Quiz Tournament, included the following teams: Coldwater, Patrick Henry, Riverdale, Delphos St. Johns, Elida, Paulding, Versailles, Van Wert, Findlay, New Bremen, Shawnee, Bellefontaine, Continental, Arcadia and Allen East.

Bracket two, the Winter Whiz Quiz Tournament, was comprised of: Bath, Ada, Defiance, New Knoxville, LCC, Columbus Grove, Celina, Spencerville, Bluffton, Botkins, Delphos Jefferson, St. Marys, Crestview, Minster, and Pandora-Gilboa.

Each tournament is divided into eight 30 minute television shows, to be aired on a weekly basis. The Fall Whiz Quiz Tournament started airing on TV-44 October 16 and continues to air Thursdays at 9 pm through December 4.

The Winter Whiz Quiz Tournament can be seen on television starting Thursday, February 5, 2015, 9pm through Thursday, March 26, 2015, 9pm.

St. Marys

Van Wert

Vantage Cosmetology Salon to Open

The Vantage senior Cosmetology class is proud to announce that the Avantage’ Salon will open on Tuesday, October 21, 2015.

The salon will be open from 8:30 – 11:00 a.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.  A variety of cosmetology services including hair care, skin care, manicures, pedicures, permanents, hair cutting and styling are being offered.  Later this year, even  more specialty services will be available such as ” Spa pedicures”, “Gel Polish”,  "Paraffin Dipping" for extremely dry hands, “Tea Tree Experience", deep conditioning treatment and aromatherapy.  Groups are always welcome.  It's a great way to have a ladies morning out.  Please be sure to call 419-238-5411 ext. 2003 to make an appointment.  Please note that if school is on a delay, cosmetology services are cancelled for the day.

In addition to serving customers, students are also taught salon management skills, retailing practices and communication skills.  Students also study the specifics of anatomy and chemistry related to the hair care industry.  This year’s instructors are Mrs. Amy Grothouse, (a Vantage Cosmetology grad herself) teaching the junior class, Mrs. Susie Smith, the senior Cosmetology teacher.

Students completing the cosmetology course of study and meeting the required competencies have the opportunity to take the state cosmetology board exam and earn a license issued by the Ohio State Board of Cosmetology.

Vantage Cosmetology senior Caitlin Geckle (Continental) practices hair coloring services on her classmate, Jen Schrecengost (Crestview).

Enjoy a morning just for you!  Schedule an appointment in the salon for a haircut, manicure, or pedicure.  Call 419-238-5411 ext. 2003 to make your appointment TODAY!

Vantage Fall Sports Spirit Day was held recently.  More than 30 Vantage students participate in fall sports or extracurricular activities this year.

Auditions Sought For Ohio Has Talent! 

Auditions for the eighth annual Ohio Has Talent! competition will be held Nov. 14 and 15 in Van Wert.

 The top 20 acts will take part in the Feb. 28, 2015 Ohio Has Talent! show at Niswonger Performing Arts Center in Van Wert. All entertainment talents are welcome – single and group acts – especially those other than singing and dancing, to provide variety for the show.

Contestants will compete for prizes of $1,000, $500 and $250 based on votes collected from the audience. Proceeds from the show benefit a nonprofit hospice center in Van Wert.

Download an audition application at www.comhealthpro.org/Ohio_has_Talent.php. Application is due by Nov. 7.

For more information call Kim Mason at 419-238-9223.

Shanes Crossing Historical Society Welcomes the Community to their Informative Meetings

The Shanes Crossing Historical Society will meet on Thursday - October 23rd at 7:30 pm in the Museum at 151 E Columbia St.
Mr. Jim Bowsher, of Wapakoneta, will be our guest speaker and as always will have many historical topics he will share in very
interesting ways.  The public is invited to the meeting.

Mercer Health remains active in taking Ebola precautions

Mercer Health continues to take precautions amidst the international Ebola outbreak focusing on education to both staff and the general public. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have provided an overview of "What you need to know about Ebola at http://www.cdc.gov/vhf/ebola/pdf/what-need-to-know-ebola.pdf

Order laundry Detergent and Sponsor Wrestling at Parkway
Once again the Parkway Wrestling team is selling 5 Gallon Buckets of Laundry Detergent. If you are interested in purchasing a bucket, the cost is $45 per bucket and the pump is included. Orders are due by October 31st with payment. Checks can be made payable to Parkway Wrestling. All proceeds from the sales are used by the wrestling program to lower student costs, entry fees for tournaments, and equipment used by the wrestlers.
The wrestling program would like to thank those of you who have purchased in the past and look forward to your continued support. A copy of the order form can be found at www.parkwayschools.org.

Village Council Meeting Minutes for October 7, 2014 - Click Here

 
October 17, 2014
 

OUR OLD BOOK CASE

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

Picture below: Discarded brass shell casings were at  hand for a Soldier at war, to use his artistic talents to produce when is  sometimes called “Trench Art.”  This “Trench Art” will be on exhibit at the  Mercer County Historical Museum’s Military Exhibit October  26.

Two years ago, the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, in partnership with the Museum of the Soldier, Portland, IN presented a “Trench Art” Exhibit.  That exhibit was curated by the Fort Wayne Museum of Art Technical Director, Brian K. Williamson, who is also a founding board member and Vice President of the Museum of the Soldier, Inc.  Williamson is not only a Military Historian, but also a Master Sergeant in the Indiana National Guard.  He returned last year after having a tour of duty in Afghanistan in 2012. 

The type of art, known as “Trench Art,” was a common souvenir of soldiers of the first half of the 20th Century, and is still found in the homes of veterans or their descendants.    Examples of “Trench Art” will be on exhibit at the 14th Annual Military and Antique Gun Exhibit at the Mercer County Historical Museum, The Riley Home, on Sunday afternoon, October 26, 1:00 – 4:00.  The public is invited.

The exhibit in the photograph above was taken in the Military Room of the Mercer County Historical Museum, the Riley Home.  May I ask you Veterans if you have brass shell casings at your home, which were used for works of art, either by you or your relatives?  If so, would you please bring those brass shell casings (with or without the artwork) to show others, at the 14th Annual Military and Antique Gun Exhibit at the Mercer County Historical Museum, on Sunday afternoon, October 26?  I would like to ask your permission to photograph the brass shell casings, for the purpose of preserving Mercer County’s Military History. 

The October 26 Military and Antique Gun Exhibit will also host other exhibits.  Brian Williamson and Jim Waechter, administrators of the Museum of the Soldier, are hosting the Exhibit related to the Vietnam War.  One of their exhibits is the DShK, a standard heavy machine gun, which saw combat service against the U.S. during the Korean War, Vietnam War, and has been supplied to any country militarily supported by the former Soviet Union or Chinese governments.

Last year, the Lloyd “Buck” Bader exhibit was held at the Military Exhibit.  Buck’s family brought many family items and photographs featuring Buck and his hunting scenes.  This is another exciting exhibit.

Philip Gerard’s book, “Secret Soldiers,”  and related photographs, which includes Celina Native Bill Brown’s role in the “Secret Soldiers,” will also be on exhibit.  Bill Brown’s fellow VFW Members will be present to answer questions.  Veterans are invited to tell their own stories about World War II.

Each year, local Gun Collectors bring guns from their own collections to exhibit.  The public is welcome to bring old guns to ask the exhibitors for information.  This exhibit changes every year.  Gun Collectors are welcome to bring their antique guns to display on October 26.

The regular exhibit of the Military Room at the Mercer County Historical Museum is another highlight of the exhibits on display Sunday afternoon.  Each time people visit this Museum, they learn something new.  The Mercer County Historical Museum, the Riley Home, is located at 130 East Market Street, one block east of the Mercer County Courthouse.  The public is invited to this October 26 Annual Military and Antique Gun Exhibit.

Students Receive Smoke Detectors

All Parkway students living in Van Wert County in grades K-9 received a smoke detector with a ten year, life time battery free of charge. The smoke detectors were provided as a result of fundraising efforts by the Van Wert County Fire Chief’s Association. The organization recognized a need in our community after seeing many examples of homes without a working smoke detector. Providing smoke detectors for all Van Wert County students will be an ongoing project for the Van Wert County Fire Chief’s Association, with plans to provide smoke detectors to kindergarten students as well as students who move into Van Wert county next year. The smoke detectors were distributed during Fire Safety Week which was held October 5 -11.

PUCO advises to arrange for propane supply early

COLUMBUS, OH (Oct. 7, 2014) - The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO)  joins the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) in encouraging Ohio consumers to consider the following steps to proactively prepare for the coming winter heating season.

1.     Check your current propane supply. Make sure that you are aware of your current supply to decide your needs to get through the heating season.

2.     Call your provider. Get in touch with the propane provider that issued your tank. Begin a good working relationship and develop a plan for your propane supply including refills, automatic refills and payment programs to make sure your tank stays full.

3.     Fill up early. By filling your tank early (before the demand for propane increases due to falling temperatures), you can help your provider better plan for supply needs so that everyone has a safe and comfortable winter.

4.     Make sure your home or business is running efficiently.  Have a technician check your appliances and propane system, look for energy efficient upgrades like programmable thermostats, let the sun naturally heat your home by opening curtains and set your water heater no higher than 120 degrees.

5.     Explore the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).  HEAP is available to income-eligible customers in Ohio. For more information visit www.winterheat.ohio.gov.

For more propane-related information, the PERC directs customers to www.propanecomfort.com. The website has information on the propane industry, a quiz to see if you are prepared and safety and efficiency tips.

VWHS Theatre Announces Fall Production

Van Wert High School Theatre proudly presents their 2014 fall production at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center. This fall, VWHS theatre students will be performing “George Washington Slept Here”, a classic comedy in three acts, written by Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman. This show explores the best of times and the worst of times when looking and purchasing a new home, which may or may not have the ideal qualities including running water, a roof, or even the presumed historical value. Newton, Annabelle, and Madge Fuller

decide to own this piece of cherished American land. You, the audience, will experience the whirlwind of a family the Fullers are. When hard economic times strike, the Fullers must decide what to do with their beloved property.

This hilarious comedy, appropriate for the whole family, is being directed by Miss Melissa Bloomfield and Miss Danielle Slagle. Mr. Hugh Saunier will serve as technical director and Mr. Josh Schumm will serve as set construction director. Lighting will be designed by VWHS student Tyler Nygren. “George Washington Slept Here” will be performed at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center in Van Wert, Ohio on Friday, November 21, 2014 and Saturday, November 22, 2014, with both shows starting at 7pm. Tickets are now on sale and may be purchased from cast members, the NPAC Box Office at 419-238-NPAC, or at the door on the night of the performances. VWHS Theatre strives to create and perform theatrical works that inspire the community with an appreciation for the arts. Visit their website, www.VWHSTheatre.weebly.com, for more information.

Reminders for Rockford Chamber

The Flower Power Fund Raiser is still going on - please use the following link to purchase bulbs to be planted this

fall for Spring flowers !   All sales will benefit the local community ! 419-363-3032 ext 1. Click below to order:

http://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com/campaign?campaign_id=19686

 
October 16, 2014
 

Parkway Schools are on a two hour delay for Thursday, October 16, 2014 due to fog.

Rockford Couple Celebrates 50th Anniversary

Fran and Rollie Miller gathered with family to celebrate 50 years of marriage. 

On October 3, 1964, Rolland Miller and Frances Gephart exchanged vows at the United Methodist Church in Rockford with Rev. Bradford officiating the ceremony before a small gathering of family.  The groom's brother Larry Miller stood as the best man and the bride's sister Sharon Gangwer was the maid of honor.

Rollie and Fran raised their three children on the Miller family farm near Chattanooga and retired to Rockford.  They both graduated from Parkway High School.  They are members of St. Paul's United Church of Christ in Chatt.  Rollie retired from Navistar and Fran from the U.S. Postal Service.

They celebrated with their three children: Julia (John) Churan of Chandler, AZ; Jill (John) Schaeffer of Wooster, OH; and John (Angie) Miller of Upper Arlington, OH, and their six beautiful grandchildren.

Fall Festival Planned at Colonial Community
FALL FESTIVAL to be held at Colonial Healthcare

located at 201 Buckeye St, in Rockford will take place

on Sunday - October 19th from Noon - 3 pm.

1st Annual Car Show - registration 11 am - 1 pm.

$10 per fee per car - Judging at 2:30 pm

Award Presentation following judging.

  *Bake Sale * Crafts * Games

The Rockford United Methodist Church

Presents:  Harvest Jubilee

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

SUNDAY - NOVEMBER 2ND, 2014  

Supper served at 5 pm - Presentation of Gifts @ 6 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 this spirit led evening of praise

at 202 South Franklin St, Rockford 

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy Sound Money Management of Public Dollars

When I was sworn in as a State Representative the first time around, I made it clear to my constituents that sound money management would be a focus of my time in the legislature.  Today, I continue to work for better handling of public moneys because taxpayers worked hard to earn that money.

In west central Ohio, we have some of the best locally elected officials and they are good stewards of taxpayer dollars. Unfortunately, not all elected officials can be trusted to handle public funds. Even when they are caught mishandling taxpayer money, it is difficult to remove an elected official from office.

That is why Representative Christina Hagan worked with Auditor Dave Yost to come up with a way to address these problems.  House Bill 10 outlines procedures to remove local fiscal officers from office if they are found to be mishandling public funds.  The bill also establishes continuing education for local officials to ensure they don’t mishandle public dollars in the first place.

Proper handling of public dollars has been a focus of my efforts over the past four years. State leaders have been working to reduce taxes and bring more jobs to Ohio.  In western Ohio we have hard working people and they deserve better than to see their tax dollars wasted on failing government growth.

Under the leadership of Governor Kasich we closed an 8 billion dollar shortfall in the state budget and reduced taxes at the same time.  Tax reductions for all Ohioans are helping to spur economic growth by allowing Ohioans to choose how they spend the money they earned.  Providing a 10 percent income tax reduction across the board and providing small business owners with a 50 percent reduction has proven to help Ohioans.

Since 2010, sound money management has resulted in more Ohioans going back to work.  Poor money management prior to 2010 left just 89 cents in the state’s rainy day fund. But with better approaches to budgeting the state now has almost $1.5 billion to use in the case of an emergency.

With more Ohioans back to work, more of their money is being put right back into the economy and both state revenue and transfers of state monies to the counties are up. Sound money management has proven successful. 

Using wise financial strategies will help our state continue to budget as we face any remaining challenges in coming years.  Taxpayers deserve to have elected officials that are good stewards of taxpayers dollars.  I have been impressed by the commitment my colleagues have made to the taxpayers through budgeting practices and reforms that will improve the handling of public dollars.

 
October 14-15, 2014
 

Rockford Recreation DESPERATELY Needs Your Help!

By Ryan Thompson 

We are currently 50 votes away from receiving one of the $2500 grants! We need to push for 100 votes in the next 2 days to secure this funding! If you have not yet signed up - PLEASE do so NOW!!!

 If you have already signed up, PLEASE try to recruit five other family members, friends, or coworkers to sign the pledge! Pledge signers do NOT need to be directly connected with Rockford Rec! Copy and past the information below, post it on Facebook, and be sure to "tag" your friends to make sure the see it!!

Rockford Recreation Association is competing for a $2,500 grant from the  Liberty Mutual Insurance Play Positive program. All we need to do is collect online petition signatures from people that support the youth recreational programs provided by Rockford Rec and commit to demonstrate good sportsmanship in our community. The top five organizations that collect the most online signatures will receive the $2,500 award!

The online petition is free and only takes 30 seconds to complete. Once submitted, you will receive a confirmation email with a link that you will need to click to verify your petition.

You can access the survey in three different ways:

"Like" Rockford Recreation Association on Facebook and follow the link posted on our Facebook page

Visit www.rockfordrec.com and click on the banner at the top of the page

Click on the following direct link: http://bit.ly/1op2f8X

Visit www.playpositive.com/pledge and search for "Rockford Recreation Association" by organization name

Also, please help spread the word by forwarding this email on to your parents, friends, aunts, uncles, siblings, neighbors, or anyone else that will appreciates Rockford Recreation Association!

Thank you for your continued support of Rockford Recreation Association and I am excited to see your name added to our signature list!

Click on smaller thumbnails above to enlarge the picture.

Click Here for Homecoming Dance Pictures shared by Nikki Fox

PANTHER TAILGATE PARTY THIS FRIDAY NIGHT

The Parkway Jr. High Athletic Teams are hosting a Tailgate Party on Friday, Oct. 17 at 6:30 PM in the parking lot at Panther Stadium. Tailgate tummy teasers including Frickers Wings, Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Chili, Nachos & Cheese, Sweet Treats, Hot Chocolate and more will be available compliments of the Jr. High Athletic Teams. Look for the motorhomes in the parking lot East of the football field. The Tailgate Party will begin at 6:30 PM and food will be served until it's gone. Game time is at 7:30 PM. Join in the fun as we cheer our Panthers on to Victory over the Delphos Blue Jays!

Rockford Chamber of Commerce Banquet

You're Invited ~  to the 41st Annual Rockford Chamber Banquet to
be held on Thursday, November 6th at the Rockford Community
Building - Shanes Park.

Social time begins at 6 pm.  Meal at 6:30 pm and program begins
at 7:15 pm.  

Entertainment by Triad, Meal by Angelina's Catering
Business Attire - Cost is $18 per person. 

Who will be the Citizen of the Year?  Who will be the Business of the Year?

Make reservations today ~ by calling 419-363-3032 ext 1 or by
email to lisa.kuhn@rockfordohio.org

PASTOR KAREN TAMORRIA TO CELEBRATE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF ORDINATION
The congregations of St. John Lutheran Church Hopewell and Zion Lutheran Church Chatt will be celebrating the 20th anniversary of ordination for Pastor Karen Tamorria on Sunday, October 19 with a joint worship service at the St. John Hopewell church at 10 a.m. The service will feature guest pastor Sue Irons, and a carry-in meal will be held in honor of Pastor Karen after the church service.
Pastor Karen has offered dedicated service to the congregations of St. John and Zion since 2012. Please join us as we honor her for her 20th anniversary of ordination. St. John Lutheran Church Hopewell is located at the corner of State Route 118 & Oregon Road south of Rockford (9009 St. Rt. 118, Celina, Ohio).
 

Bicentennial Meeting Planned
The Rockford 2020 Bicentennial Planning Committee will be holding a
meeting on October 20th at 7 pm at the Rockford Village Hall.
Public invited and encouraged to get involved.

Halloween in Ohio City
The Ohio City Park Board is proud to announce the date for their annual Halloween Party. The party will be held at the Ohio City Community Building on Saturday, November 1st from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am. The band “Section Ate” will provide music throughout the night and beverages will be available. The Park Board will also be offering free chili and an Ohio City-Liberty classic, peanut butter and lettuce sandwiches, along with other snacks. There will be prizes for several categories. We are also proud to announce that Anna Perry, local artist and Halloween enthusiast, will again decorate the community building. This is a great opportunity to go out and enjoy a FREE community Halloween party with a community atmosphere.

National Honor Society Inducts New Members at Parkway - Great Pictures from Nikki Fox Photography
Click Here for Her Link to More
Click smaller thumbnail pictures to enlarge them.

PARKWAY LOCAL BOARD Of EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING  ~ OCTOBER 14, 2014  ~ 6:30 P.M.  ~MENDON LIBRARY ANNEX
Click Here for the Agenda from Superintendent  Puthoff

PUBLIC NOTICE on Culvert Replacement

The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Wilson Road between State Route 118 and Lombard Road in Dublin Township for a culvert replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on October 15, 2014 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 4 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

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

ERNIE HAASE

& SIGNATURE SOUND

Like You've Never Seen Them Before!

The Grand Series at the Niswonger kicks off with GRAMMY-nominated Ernie Haase and Signature Sound. This world famous quartet known over the past decade for rich harmonies, energetic performances, and their love for the American spiritual, serves as the perfect complement to Broadway Star, J. Mark McVey’s (Les Miserables legend) extraordinary voice.  The will bring their unique collaboration of voices to the Niswonger Performing Arts Center on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18 at 7:30 PM

Turkey Shoot

The Willshire Sportsman’s Club will be holding a Turkey Shoot on Sunday November 2, 2014, starting at noon. It will be held on the club grounds located 2 miles east of Willshire, OH on St. Rte. 81.

Only 12 gauge shotguns will be permitted and shell will be furnished. Youth shoots for children, aged 16 and under will be held. Only 20 gauge shotguns will be permitted for the youth shoots and shells will be furnished.

A lunch stand will be available.

                            Public is welcome.

 
October 10-13, 2014
 

 
October 8-9, 2014
 

Lloyd and Florence Gause Celebrate 70 Years Together

Lloyd and Florence Gause, Rockford, will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary with family attending their church, Chattanooga United Methodist, together on October 19th. Lloyd Gause and Florence Shively were married October 15th,1944 in the living room of the Gause family home, where they still reside, by Rev. Lewis Gehron,the groom’s brother-in-law. They are the parents of David and Lois Gause, Chattanooga, Vickie and Tim Bollenbacher, Rockford, Marjie and Jay Ellis, Celina and Douglas Wayne, deceased. They have 14 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter.

There will also be a weekend Campout at the Gause Barnyard Campground on Saturday, October 18th. Come join them at the bon fire for hot dogs and s'mores and Sunday for church.

Rockford United Methodist Church Begins Five: 02 Activities

The FIVE:02 Ministry of Rockford United Methodist Church has begun now through December each Wednesday. A FREE Community Dinner is served at 5:02 – 7 PM on Wednesdays. Bible Study follows 5:42-7:00.
Kids Club is daily after school with transportation provided for Pre-K through 5th graders. Class and Life Group Sessions are listed above in the ad banner or by calling the church.

RUMC congregation invites the public to join them for their fall activities.

Parkway Middle School Conferences

Parkway Middle School will be holding parent teacher conferences on Thursday October 30th, Thursday, November 6th, Thursday November 20th and Tuesday, November 25th. 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, students will not be in school November 26th through December 1st.  School will resume on Tuesday December 2nd.

Chancel Choir Participation
The First Presbyterian Church of Van Wert extends an open invitation to all singers, age high school through adult, who enjoy singing to participate in the 2014-2015 Chancel Choir season.

All those involved share a love of bringing glory to God through music, Christian fellowship, and singing together in harmony. The only requirement for participating is a desire to sing and be present for any Wednesday night rehearsal held at 7:30 pm to perform with the choir during the following 10:00 am Sunday service.

The chancel choir performs regularly throughout the entire calendar year, is in the planning stages for the performance of two major choral works for the 2014-2015 year, and frequently has guest soloists, instrumentalists and ensembles during our Sunday morning worship services.

To learn more about First Presbyterian Church of Van Wert, our upcoming choir season and how to participate, please contact the church office at 419-238-3670.

Parkway Drama Club Holding Fund Raiser

Help is needed to support Parkway Drama Club and one can do it by eating at Bob Evans in Van Wert! Show the participating flyer when paying your tab on October 15th and 10% of your bill will help with sets and costumes! Pick up the required flyer from a drama student, High school office, Elementary office, or Rockford library.

 
October 1-7, 2014
 

Local Men Finish at Tough Mudder Competition in Brooklyn Michigan – Fund Raiser for Wounded Warrior Project

Two area young men, Austin Art and Sam Dellinger, with a love of physical fitness and a streak of patriotism,  recently realized a goal they had planned together over a year ago when they competed-in and finished the Tough Mudder Competition in Brooklyn, Michigan  a major fund raising company for the Wounded Warrior Project.

Austin and Sam’s brother Tim were best buddies and attended school together at Parkway for many years while little brother Sam tagged along. Eventually the Dellingers, Tim and Chris, moved their family to Indiana, but all of the boys kept in contact. Austin graduated from Parkway in 2008, and Sam graduated from South Adams in 2012. As they grew older (Austin is 24 and Sam is 20) the years grew less as they began regular work-outs of running the country roads of Mercer County and lifting at the Exile Fitness Center in Celina (formerly Musclehead Fitness).

The fellows learned of the Tough Mudder events staged all across the country for the benefit of Wounded Warriors, and got totally interested. Theyr regular workouts became training sessions. Although they never bought the Tough Mudder Training Guide, they did every kind of workout they thought would help them with the challenge. Tough Mudder stresses: Testing Physical Toughness; Mental Grit; and Camaraderie.

The son of Joe and Brenda Art of Rockford, Austin works at Celina Glass and Sam works at a factory in Berne, IN.  The sought out other young men who had done the challenge including Barry Peel III and Andrew Peel, gathering knowledge and advice.

After listening to motivational speaker, Shawn Corvel talk about the Wounded Warriors and how much they gave up to protect freedom, Austin and Sam’s adventure began on the raceway in Brooklyn, but the course was laid out all over the grounds. The obstacle course can be seen on https://toughmudder.com/obstacles. Austin claims he felt the heat of Fire in Your Hole as he climbed high to race down a slide with fire blazing over the finish line into a pool of water. Poles strung over a muddy pool was the next event, and was called the Pole Dancer because participants used upper body strength to cross it via the poles.  Hold Your Wood was carrying logs long distances, just like the elite Marines do in training; and following that, Austin and Sam ran through the Electro Shock Therapy which were strands of live wires. After that shock wore off, the guys tackled Twinkle Toes, crossing 2 x 4’s over a pool. They climbed a giant mud mound called King of the Mountain and went through Kiss the Mud (yup – belly crawls through the mud). Walk the plank was fun which was climbing high to a diving board and jumping into muddy water. The arctic Enema was climgbing high to jump into a pool of ice water which they followed with the event called Funky Monkey – with ladders strung overhead, the guys used their arms to “walk” from one end to the other. There were plenty of walls and fences to climb mud to trample through and people to help along the way. “People helped pull me to the top of walls; then I would help pull the next ones up. It was all about helping each other through a tough course.”  There were 250-person “waves” that left the starting gate every 20 minutes from 7:20 AM to 12:20 PM. Once their faces were painted with their entry numbers, they were ready.

Austin and Sam finished the course earning them each the special orange headband for finishers. The guys paid a $155 entry fee, with proceeds going to Wounded Warriors. Many soldiers helped with the event set-up and supervised.  8000 people participated-in and watched the event. People volunteered their time, and although Austin and Sam did not raise donations for the Project, they want to do it at the next eent. They have not chosend the city they want to participate-in, but they are working on it!

If you want to contact Austin to talk about the event or sponsor his next Tough Mudder,  email him at art.austin.0@gmail.com  

Click on smaller thumbnail pictures below to enlarge them.

Mud	Funky Monkey	Camaraderie	Sam	Sam and Austin
Heading to the Fire Hole	Austin	Sam in Electro Shock	Military Volunteers	Sam

Girl with local ties selected as a Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus Marathon "Patient Champion."

Elena Grace Miller has been selected as one of 24 Miracle Mile Patient Champions for the 2014 National Children's Hospital Columbus Marathon, taking place on Sunday, October 19th.

Elena is the daughter of John and Angela Miller of Columbus, former local residents. She is the granddaughter of Rolland and Fran Miller of Rockford, Ralph and Judy Evans, of Ohio City, and the late Janice Evans.

The Miracle Mile Patient Champions originated to recognize NCH patients and allow them to share their personal stories of hope and how NCH has impacted their lives. Champions represent various conditions such as autism, type 1 diabetes, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury and many others. Each "Champion" will be present at their particular mile marker, cheering on marathon participants, while the remaining two miles are reserved for the Encore mile, honoring past Champions, and the Angel Mile, dedicated to the angels of NCH who have passed on. 

Elena will be representing children with hearing impairments. Elena's family, which also includes her big brother, Ryan, wishes to raise awareness of hearing loss and help deliver hope to other families of similarly diagnosed children. They are inspired to raise funds for the Hearing Program at NCH to assist the providers who have loved and cared for Elena from the beginning, as well as all the patients they serve.

Below is the press release introducing Elena as a Patient Champion.

 

Meet Elena
Do you like puppies? Six-year-old Elena Miller does. Can you imagine the sound of a puppy playfully sniffing in your ear when he is cuddling you? Well, Elena doesn’t have to imagine that sound anymore, because now she can hear it with her own ears. Elena Miller was born deaf. At 10 months, she received surgically implanted bilateral cochlear implants. During the first two years of her life, she underwent 6 surgical procedures followed by intensive speech therapy and audiology. Once a qqchild has been diagnosed with sensorineural hearing loss, the child’s family is often faced with questions and decisions they do not feel equipped to address. The Hearing Program at Nationwide Children’s Hospital helps patients and their families through a multidisciplinary team approach. The team of experts includes a pediatric otolaryngologist specializing in hearing loss, advanced practitioner nurse, audiologist, speech-language pathologist, social worker and registered nurse. Perhaps Elena’s mother, Angela, said it best, “We have experienced a miracle in Elena and she lives a very full and blessed life because of the technology of cochlear implants and the wonderful care Nationwide Children’s Hospital provides. She truly does have a very bright future ahead!” And so does her puppy, Snickers. As the runners and walkers pass her special mile, Elena will be cheering loudly on behalf of all the kids who have been diagnosed with hearing impairments.

To join Elena's team or to donate to Nationwide Children's Hospital, visit the link below.

http://nationwidechildrens.kintera.org/childrenschampions2014/ElenaMiller


 

Rockford EMS Needs Members - Open Letter to Residents
P.O. Box 188
Rockford, OH 45882

October 1, 2014: This is an open letter to the residents of Rockford Village, Mendon Village, Dublin Township, Union Township, Blackcreek Township, Liberty Township, & Hopewell Township:

The Rockford EMS branch desperately needs your help. Rockford EMS is in need of volunteers who are willing to take classes and serve as a member of the Rockford EMS squads. Recent meetings were held to discuss this matter with village and township officials in the Rockford EMS coverage area. Without more volunteers on board in the very near future, it is possible that the Rockford EMS branch will see some major changes.

Recent changes have been made in the response for EMS runs in the Rockford EMS coverage area. At the time of this letter, all EMS runs to the northern part of Mercer County, from 6a.m.-6p.m. Monday-Friday, are being covered by squads from the Celina Fire Department. Although the squad runs are being handled as quickly as possible, it is not what we desire. It is the desire of Rockford EMS that all runs be handled by the Rockford EMS branch units. In order to do so, it is urgent we get more volunteers. ALL hours of volunteers are needed, but the immediate need is specifically for volunteers who would be available to make runs during the daytime hours. If you live in a five (5) mile radius of the EMS station you can respond to the station to make squad runs. If you live outside the five mile radius, you can still be a �first responder� and meet the squad on the scene.

More Rockford EMS volunteers are needed now. If we are unable to get volunteers from the Rockford area, some very hard decisions will need to be made. These decisions may be up to and including the paying for private EMS service to cover the area or possibly a long term agreement for EMS coverage from Celina EMS units.

To be a Rockford EMS volunteer: must be 18 years of age at the time of taking the final test, must have a valid Ohio driver�s license, must have high school diploma or GED, must complete and pass a background check, must sign a two(2) year agreement to make EMS runs after fully trained. All initial training will be paid by Mercer County EMS.

WE NEED YOUR HELP to continue to provide EMS service from the Rockford station. Only eight students are needed in order to conduct the EMT classes in Rockford. If you or a member of your family is interested in helping please leave your name and contact information at 419-305-2887 or E-mail information to rockfordems@bright.net. Someone will contact you as soon as possible. Time is critical in making EMS response decisions for northern Mercer County. This is a great opportunity to help your family, friends, and neighbors by being an EMS volunteer. Please call for more information today.

Thank you,
Rockford EMS

Parkway Attends Farm Science Review

On Wednesday September 17th, Parkway FFA juniors and seniors reported to the school at 6:30am to load the bus and head to head to London, Ohio to attend Fair Science Review. After the two hour bus ride, students were able to walking around and visit the different booths before leaving at 1pm so they could be back by the end of the school day. Students had a very educational trip and commented that they learned a lot while there. The FFA students would also like to thank former Parkway FFA member, Danielle Matthews, for the LG bags!

ROCKFORD REC. HAS DROPPED OUT OF THE TOP 5 CONTENDERS FOR THE PLAY POSITIVE

  PLEDGE. We are currently in 6th place.

  WE NEED ALL OF YOU TO SIGN THE PLAY POSITIVE PLEDGE TODAY! IT IS FREE,

  QUICK, AND EASY! ALSO, BE SURE TO LOOK FOR THE CONFIRMATION EMAIL AND CLICK

  ON THE LINK TO CONFIRM YOUR SUPPORT. IF YOU DON\'T RESPOND TO THE LINK TO

  VERIFY YOUR EMAIL, YOUR PLEDGE IS NOT COUNTED.

  If you have already signed the pledge, THANK YOU!! Please try to convince

  at least three additional people to sign the pledge. This could be your

  spouse, parents, brothers, sisters, neighbors, coworkers, (anyone over the

  age of 18), etc. There are only 18 days remaining for people to sign the

  pledge. We need to continue to aggressively pursue pledges or we will

  quickly fall out of contention for this $2,500 grant opportunity. Please

  forward the email below to other people on your contact list.

  If you have not yet taken the pledge, please read the email below and click

  on one of the options below to support this effort!

  Thank you for your continued support of the Rockford Recreation

  Association!

  Ryan

Click Here for the Parkway Calendar of Events for October 2014

Parkway October 2014 Breakfast & Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Driver Training
Classes to Begin!

MR. E's DRIVING SCHOOL
CLASSROOM TIMES            FALL 2014

SAT.           Nov.   1nd             8:00 AM  - 12:15 PM 

MON.          Nov.   3rd              3:45 PM  -   7:15 PM          

TUE.           Nov.   5th              3:45 PM  -   7:15 PM      

WED.          Nov.   5th              3:45 PM  -   7:15 PM       

THUR.        Nov.   6th              3:45 PM  -   7:15 PM       

FRI.            Nov.   7th              3:45 PM  -   7:15 PM

SAT.           Nov.   8th              8:00 AM -  12:15 PM


Make up date is Nov. 10th from 3:30PM to 7:30 PM

Class will be held in the community room at the high school.

Cost for the class is $ 330.00.
Contracts can be obtained
from Mr. Hinkle or 
in the high school office
from Sandi.