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ROCKFORD LIONS CLUB QUARTER AUCTION
SEPTEMBER 12, 2021
ROCKFORD COMMUNITY BUILDING
DOORS OPEN AT 12;30
AUCTION AT 1 pm
PADDLES $4 EACH
ALL-IN PADDLES $35
LIGHT LUNCH AVAILABLE

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September 13-14, 2021
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 17 years!
 

Mark Your Calendars for Sunday October 10, 2021 for AutumnFest
The annual AutumnFest evening meal and auction at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH has been set for Sunday, October 10, 2021. Mark your calendars for this delicious and fun event. Details to follow!

Homecoming Festivities Announced at Parkway
The Parkway Student Government is pleased to invite all community members and alumni to the annual fall homecoming festivities. This year’s homecoming game, which sees the Parkway football team facing off against St. Henry, will be held on September 17th starting at 7:00pm. The homecoming festivities will be held before the game with a parade beginning at 6:15pm. The parade will start at the high school and travel down Pine Street to the football field. This year, the attendants of Parkway’s Homecoming Court include Freshman Cali Bollenbacher, Sophomore Olivia Dicke, and Junior Abby Baltzell. The three Senior candidates for Homecoming Queen are Dani Huff, Raegan Roehm, and Molly Hileman. Come and enjoy the efforts of the Parkway football team, marching band, and student body, and find out which senior is crowned Homecoming Queen!

Names from left to right:

Front Row: Seniors: Dani Huff, Raegan Roehm, and Molly Hileman
Back Row: Olivia Dicke, Cali Bollenbacher, and Abby Baltzell

During the COVID-19 Pandemic back in 2020 and early 2021, Mercer County Detention Center Remains COVID-free - Delta Variant changed this status on September 10, 2021

By Sheila Baltzell-Linn, posted 9-11, 2021

No cases of COVID occurred in the Mercer County Detention Facility according to Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey and Nurse Supervisor Megan Fokine, RN. There were only a few employees who contracted the coronavirus from outside the facility and remained home without spreading the virus within the Sheriff's Office or jail. It is a fact the entire department is proud of, and Nurse Fokine says it was a joint effort.

From the start of the COVID-19 Pandemic back in 2020, Nurse Supervisor Megan Fokine and Nurse Sue Back, LPN studied the CDC guidelines, which sometime contradicted itself, and segregated the work groups to keep their divisions safe. They worked with Sheriff Jeff Grey, and policies were made and put into place. Patrol deputies worked exclusively in their cars and were able to communicate with other staff, but were limited when it came to entering the office. Corrections employees stayed within the jail walls and were not permitted to have contact with civil, patrol, or dispatch employees. And those who were able worked from home.

Homemade masks from organizations and citizens were donated to the Sheriff's office, as well as hand sanitizer. Sheriff's Office staff worked to secure the Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) they needed, and since they are first-responders, their department was well equipped. Masks were kept at every entrance along with hand sanitizer and disposable gloves. A method of collecting used masks for washing and reusing was put in place. Temperatures were taken at the door daily. Any employee feeling sick was instructed to stay home after a call to Nurse Fokine for discussion. These rules were followed closely. If an employee's symptoms sounded ominous, Nurse Fokine sent them for a COVID test at the Mercer Health testing drive-thru facility or a local hospital. With the assistance of the Mercer County Health Department, these tests were sent to the OSU Hospital for rapid results. All testing went through Dr. Neil Holleran. Now, the Sheriff's Office medical department can administer their own test themselves. Nurse Fokine said, "Mercer County Sheriff's Office is a family. Sheriff Jeff Grey leads well, and we look to him for the rules and guidance. I found myself at the center - the point of contact for entire families. Our first issue with COVID happened when one of our deputy's wives contracted the virus while pregnant. He was immediately quarantined. Shortly thereafter, another deputy's wife became ill through an outbreak at a nursing home in Darke County. He, too, was then quarantined. I was nurse and advisor on a daily basis."

On the jail there are two dorms with two separate ventilation systems. This was a feature built into the new jail. These dorms were utilized if an inmate was positive for COVID. As inmates were booked in with 4 inmates to a booking cell when necessary. They could be further isolated if needed. From the booking cell, inmates went into a quarantine medical dorm after temperatures were taken and an assessment was made about their health. The quarantined dorm would remain separate until 14 days from the time the last prisoner entered that specific dorm prior to entering general population. Nurse Fokine said they only had one case of a prisoner who came in sick. With PPE, the nurses were able to assess him and determined he was sick beyond a regular virus. The prisoner was quarantined and then sent over to the hospital in Coldwater where he tested positive and remained there for treatment. There was no cross contamination within the correction facility.

Nurse Fokine said there was a lot of fear among the inmates and personnel. It was her job to relax their concerns.  Her team approached COVID like an infectious disease in a medical ward at a hospital/facility.  Educate and remind was the mantra of their department. Scheduled sanitizing was done by everyone in the building, and doubly sanitized in high traffic areas.  She required the use of new gloves from one area to the next. All work stations were double-sanitized. All precautions were taken. All inmates were quarantined before mixing with the general population. Temperatures were taken every day for every employee and inmate.

Telemed was used during this time for communicating with doctors or psychiatrists.  Inmates were not transported either for their court hearings. They used Lifesize which is similar to zoom. All computers were cleaned and sanitized twice between these online sessions. In fact, all stations and surfaces even light switches and door knobs were double-cleaned - once by the party leaving and once by the party coming.

The average daily population of inmates were between 34 to 55. Mercer County Sheriff Office has 74 full-time employees. A majority of the staff has been vaccinated. MCSO medical staff along with the Mercer County Health Department offer inmate's the opportunity once a month to receive the vaccination. Through the strong leadership, Mercer County Correctional facility has remained free from any COVID outbreaks.

UPDATE as of September 10, 2021

Unfortunately on September 10, 2021, Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports two inmates in the Adult Detention Facility and one jail employee have recently tested positive for Covid-19.

An inmate came into the facility in late August and after approximately 12  days in jail reported to medical staff of losing sense of taste and smell and other covid-19 like symptoms.  Medical staff rapid tested the inmate and the result was positive.  A second inmate experiencing Covid-19 like symptoms has also tested positive. 

 
September 8-12, 2021
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 17 years!
 

Parkway School Board Agenda for a Regular Meeting on September 13, 2021 at 6:30 pm
by Sally Cox

2020-2021 Parkway High School / Middle School Yearbooks are here!

The 2020-2021 Parkway High School / Middle School Yearbooks will be distributed to students who pre-ordered yearbooks this past spring on Monday September 13th. 2021 through Wednesday September 15th, 2021. Graduates who do not have a sibling attending Parkway can pick up their yearbook in the High School Office during normal hours of 7:30 to 3:30. A limited number of extra yearbooks are available to purchase for $60. Please contact the High School Office at 419.363.3045 x760 if you would like to purchase one. Also, 2021 seniors can purchase an 8x10 senior class composite for $15. 

Pastor Doug Meyer leads worship service at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Pastor Doug Meyer to the pulpit on Sunday, September 5, 2021. He began the service with a message for the children that involved cookies in the shape of a hammer and the USA. The hammer cookie cutter was one owned by the late Reitta Branstetter; Doug thanked Connie (Branstetter) Sapp for donating the cutter to him. His message to the children was about Labor Day and thanks to God for work and the chores that parents give their children so that they can learn the meaning of work. Jesus was a carpenter and worked with his earthly dad, as a child.

His message to the congregation was based on Matthew 18:15-20. The sermon was titled, “And We Still Need Watchmen.” Other Biblical references included Ezekiel 33:1-7 “Take heed when the trumpet sounds.” and Romans 3:8-14 “All are under the power of sin”. All watchmen, to be good, must be honest, vigilant, alert, awake and never afraid to tell the truth, according to Pastor Doug. Ezekiel was called by God to be a Watchman for the House of Israel.  A Watchman sounded the alarm of danger by blowing the Shofar horn. The people had to trust that person - to let them know they had to take shelter or prepare to fight. If they didn’t heed the warning, according to God, they would suffer the consequences. God called the prophets to be watchmen, too, and their warnings were about sin. They were not always popular. They spoke God’s truth to people of the nations - “Heed the warning or be destroyed”. God’s love is so great for us, that he gave (and gives) us watchmen to warn us and keep us on the right path to heaven. That is Grace.

Listen to the word of God. Resist the devil and he’ll flee from you. Draw near to God, and He’ll draw near to you.  (James 4:7). Pray daily to God for yourself and your families to resist the Devil, because he’s alive and active, and God promises to be with us in that resistance. 

Doug will be back in the pulpit at 10 AM on Sunday, November 7, 2021 for the Remembrance Service for members who have passed away this year. All family members are invited to join the congregation for this meaningful memorial to their deceased loved-ones. A catered meal will follow after the service and will be safely served by the Women’s Fellowship.

Please call Becky Shope 419-363-2227 for any questions regarding the worship services.

Visit the St. Paul’s UCC – Rockford Facebook Page for information as well.

Reminder - There will be a Congregational Meeting at St. Paul's United Church of Christ - Rockford following the morning service (10 AM) on Sunday, September 12, 2021.

 
September 6-7, 2021
 

Labor Day Race Change at the Van Wert County Fair

(Van Wert, OH  -  September 3, 2021) It is with much regret that the Van Wert County Fair announces the cancellation of the Thoroughbred Races, due to circumstances outside of our control. In its replacement, the Van Wert County Fair is actively working to replace the thoroughbred race with harness racing, giving our fair patrons a memorable fair experience to share with family and friends.  Harness racing will take place with a post time of 12:00 PM on Monday, September 6, 2021 with Paramutual wagering.

The Van Wert County Fair is working to bring back Thoroughbred racing to the 2022 Van Wert County Fair. To stay up to date with schedule changes and fair information, please follow our Facebook page at facebook.com/vanwertcountyfair.

Parkway September 2021 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

St. Marys Memorial High School, Class of 1956, will have its 65th reunion on Sept. 28 at noon in St. Marys Eagles hall. Please bring memorabilia to share. You can order lunch from the menu.

FOG SEAL

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart is announcing that contract crews will be starting the fog seal work on various rural local roads in Mercer County in mid-September.

The Mercer County Engineer in conjunction with our contractor, Ward Construction, is preparing to place an asphalt sealant onto the roadway for all of the roads that were chip sealed recently.  The purpose of this sealant is to:

Further fill the cracks and voids in the pavement

Virtually eliminate all the dust and loose stone

Lessen the noise factor created by the new surface

Provide a black surface to better accentuate the yellow centerline stripe and to increase the winter snow/ice melting due to the blackened background

The sealant will be applied in mile increments and will cure out in about 1/2 hour.  After that point, our contractor will open that mile section to traffic and then move to the next section of roadway.  Once cured, the sealant will not track nor spray onto vehicles.

VWCF ACCEPTING GRANT APPLICATIONS

The Van Wert County Foundation serves as a philanthropic vehicle for individuals, corporations, and organizations by administering grants to charitable organizations. Together we create a well-resourced and thriving quality of life for our community.

The fall grant cycle is open for online application only via the Grants Manager.  The Online Grants Manager compiles information and support materials for The Van Wert County Foundation’s software system for managing online applications and grants. This recently established process allows grantees an easy way to see the status of a grant, check due dates, and submit electronic grant reports.

“We recommend that applicants carefully read the instructions and reference materials found on our website before registering and starting their application. If an applicant encounters issues or has questions, we ask that they contact our office at 419.238.1743,” states Renee Thatcher, VWCF Grants Administrator. 

Non-profit organizations can find the grant application and additional information here. 

PLEASE NOTE DEADLINES: Letter of Intent submission is due October 15, 2021. Grant Application is due by November 1, 2021. ONLINE SUBMISSION ONLY.

The Rockford American Legion Post 508 donated $525 to the Parkway Weight Room.  Receiving the check is Parkway Head Football coach Joel Henkle.  Pictured L to R, Terry McMillen, Terry Joseph, Reed Shaffer, Alex Rowen, Joel Henkle, and Lowell Warthman.

Rockford American Legion Post 508 Donates $400 to Kinzie Stephenson for her Girl Scout Golden Project to construct a bus stop shelter at Rockford’s Shanes Park. Pictured L to R Reed Shaffer, Lowell  Warthman, Kinzie Stephenson, and Terry McMillen.

Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

Pastor Adam Poe comes to St. John's Lutheran - Hopewell and Zion Lutheran - Chatt

Drug Arrests
Mercer County Sheriff, Jeff Grey reports that three arrests were made on Tuesday by the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office and the Grand Lake Drug Task Force.  Deputies were assigned to watch to for two individuals with active warrants.  When deputies observed them, traffic stops were made. 

The first traffic stop was made on Violet M Valdez, 35,  611 S Franklin Street Rockford.   Valdez was arrested on two (2) warrants from Auglaize County for Possession of Amphetamines.  Also during the traffic stop, deputies located Methamphetamines inside the car.  Valdez was charged in Mercer County with Possession of Methamphetamines, a felony of the fifth degree. 

A second traffic stop was made a short time later on Cory D Gross, 38, 369 Northway Drive Saint Mary’s.  Gross was stopped, when deputies recognized his passenger, Amanda K Hatfield, 42, 710 Devonshire Drive Celina.  Deputies were aware that Hatfield had active warrants.  During the stop, deputies located a sizable amount of Methamphetamines inside the car.   Both Gross and Hatfield were charged with Possession of Methamphetamines and felony of the fifth degree.  Hatfield was also arrested on active warrants.  One warrant was from Auglaize County for Possession of Methamphetamines and the second warrant was from Mercer County for Driving Under Suspension.

Mercer County Sheriff’s Office K-9, Ossi assisted on both traffic stops.

Celina Municipal Court Judge Kathryn Speelman set bond on all three (3) subjects at $50,000.00 subject to ten percent.

These cases will be sent to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office for review and to determine if additional charges are warranted.

Our Old Bookcase “The Old History Book Sale” on September 12, 2021.

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

Photo Caption:  When wanting research about Mercer County’s History, many citizens think they should email me to ask me to do the research for them.   I wrote these eight books to help people who are interested in local history to learn how to do their research.  These books are a bargain at “The Old History Book Sale,” at the County Museum on Sunday, September 12, 2021 from 1:00 – 4:00.

When I was elected President of the Mercer County Historical Society, Inc. as of January 1973, I soon learned that there were two Mercer County History books, one published in 1882 and the other published in 1907.  One of my first responsibilities, as requested by the Mercer Historical Society Members and the Mercer County Commissioners, was to find a new home for the County Museum.  As of May 27, 1975, the Mercer County Commissioners agreed to purchase a home for the Mercer County Historical Society, Resolution # 438, and they purchased the Riley Home, 130 East Market, from David and Barbara Riley.  A few volunteers helped and we moved the entire museum collection to this site.  In July, 1975, I told the Commissioners that I was returning to teaching school.

At that time, the Commissioners made the decision to appoint me as Director of the Mercer County Historical Museum, with the similar wages and benefits and a contract which I would receive as a Teacher, in August 1975.

As of 1976, Mercer County Historical Society served Mercer County’s Bicentennial Celebration Committee, 1776-1976.  At the conclusion of those public meetings, the Committee requested that I, as County Museum Director, work with the Mercer County Historical Society and publish a new “Mercer County Ohio History” Book.  I met with the Mercer County Commissioners and they were very enthusiastic about this project.  The Commissioners agreed to help support the project.  On December 12, 1978, with Resolution #551, the Commissioners provided $4000.00 to the Mercer County Historical Society for the Mercer County History book.

That was just the beginning of the Mercer County Historical Society’s leadership in publishing local history books, with contributions from County and local Government offices and local businesses.  The Society has published thirty-two history books, to help preserve local history and to educate the public about local history. 

Sunday afternoon, September 12, 2021 these eight research books will be the Bargain for five dollars each at “The Old History Book Sale,” at the Mercer County Historical Museum, 130 East Market, Celina.

“The Old History Book Sale,”  with the two new books, “New Idea Company’s Hay Tools,” and the “Oil and Gas Boom in Mercer County and Midwestern Ohio,” will also have for sale copies of former books published by the Mercer County Historical Society, 1978-2021. 

Of the thirty-two history books published by the Mercer County Historical Society, some books have been “sold out.”  Once the books are sold, there will be no reprints available.  For many books, this may be your last opportunity to purchase your own copy.

“The Old History Book Sale” will be held at the Mercer County Historical Museum, 130 East Market, a block east of the Mercer County Courthouse, Celina, on Sunday, September 12, 2021, 1:00 – 4:00.

[Mercer County Historical Society President Joyce Alig may be contacted at 3054 Burk-St. Henry Road, Saint Henry, OH 45883, or histalig@bright.net or 419-852-0092.]  NOTE THE NEW PHONE NUMBER!

Letter to Sellers and Servers of alcohol
Dear Business Owners, 

On Monday, October 18, 2021, we are asking for your participation in one of the two FREE Seller-Server Trainings that we will be offering. The times are from 1-3 pm or 6-8 pm at the Central Services Building in Celina. Agent Michael Coopman from the Ohio Investigative Unit will be presenting information on the A.S.K. program (Alcohol Server Knowledge). The Ohio state course is designed for bartenders, sellers, and servers and is  filled with knowledge and techniques to become a responsible server/seller of alcohol and liquor regulations. This training will cover topics such as: how to protect yourself and your establishment from liability, how to check IDs, how to identify a fake ID, levels of intoxication, recognizing the signs of intoxication, recognizing minors, and interventions. Agent Coopman will also cover what the Ohio penalties and fines are for a business or server who is found in non-compliance.

The A.S.K. program can help businesses: reduce exposure to alcohol liability lawsuits, ensure safety for you, your customer and your community; reduce penalties for alcohol violations; help lower your business’s insurance premiums; improve customer service and professionalism and protect yourself from Ohio liquor law violations!

We will be highlighting businesses in attendance to the training (and numbers of employees attending) through social media and newspaper outlets. Also, some insurances may offer a discount as a result of your employees taking part in this training. Certificates will be given after your employees complete this training.

We thank you for considering your business to participate in this free opportunity. As an incentive, we will be raffling off a $25 gas gift certificate at each training for those in attendance.

Please have your employees reserve their spot today by signing up at this link by October 11, 2021: https://forms.gle/pN8YCWwHrsn4F5fG9 

The Seller-Server Training is a project of the Mercer County Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) as a result of the 2016 Community Health Assessment, which indicated alcohol/substance abuse as the number one health issue in Mercer County. Alcohol/substance abuse prevention is also a priority again as a result of our 2019 Community Health Assessment and the Community Health Improvement Plan which is currently being made. These trainings are being hosted by the Mercer County Prevention Coalition. If you have any questions, please call Laura at 419-584-1000 or email lauras@foundationsbhs.org   

Thank you!
The Mercer County Prevention Coalition

L. E. & W. Depot, S. Main, Celina

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

Photo Caption:  Lake Erie & Western Railroad Depot, “close-up” and “Aerial View.”

The History of the “Lake Erie & Western Railroad Depot,” on South Main Street, Celina, was requested by a citizen of North Carolina.  I went to our book, “Celina, Ohio Sesquicentennial, 1834-1984,” in quest of this history.

The Celina passenger train station at 424 South Main Street was built in 1878 and operated by the Lake Erie & Louisville Railroad Company.  The first train, an excursion special, arrived at the Celina station from Lima on July 4, 1878 during public ceremonies. 

Later, the Railroad was reorganized as the “Lake Erie and Western” and trains from Portland, Jay County, Indiana, were arriving at Fort Recovery by 1879.  At that period, with the time changes across the United States, the trains would not always arrive on schedule.  The “L. E. & W.” was casually called “The Leave Early and Wait!”

The L.E. & W. operated under various corporate control, through December 28, 1922, when the line was consolidated with the New York, Chicago & St. Louis Railroad Company, better known throughout the Midwest as the “Nickel Plate Road.”  The last passenger service on the line was October 17, 1959.  The “Nickel Plate Road” became history on October 16, 1964, when it merged with “The Norfolk & Western Railway Company.”  Reduced local freight traffic forced the closing of the Celina station on December 13, 1981.  Since 1981, various companies have operated short lines for local businesses.  [See the “Celina, Ohio Sesquicentennial, 1834-1984”  book.]

The question for you readers is do you recall when the local railroad depot was dismantled?  Is there a possibility that you have photographs of that scene?  The person seeking this Railroad Depot history is Eldon Brinkman, 151 Stone House Road, Hendersonville, NC 28739.  His email address is eldon@morrisbb.net   He would be glad to hear from you.

“The Old History Book Sale” will be held at the Mercer County Historical Museum, 130 East Market, a block east of the Mercer County Courthouse, Celina, on Sunday, September 12, 2021, 1:00 – 4:00.

The first 25 customers will receive one free copy of the book, “Mercer County Centennial Buildings,” with plat maps of villages identifying buildings from the 1888 and 1900 “Mercer County Atlases.”

[Mercer County Historical Society President Joyce Alig may be contacted at 3054 Burk-St. Henry Road, Saint Henry, OH 45883, or histalig@bright.net or 419-852-0092.]  NOTE THE NEW PHONE NUMBER!

Come Hear Pastor Steve Howell at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Steve Howell back to the pulpit on Sunday, September 12, 2021. His message entitled “Seeing for the First Time” is based on the Gospel Lesson John 9:1-12 ~ for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

Steve has been in the ministry for 50 years and is retired from Grace Missionary Church in Celina. He delivers a powerful message.

Please call Becky Jo Shope 419-363-2227 for any questions regarding the worship services.

Visit the St. Paul’s UCC – Rockford Facebook Page for information as well.

Assure Suicide Awareness Community Walk - Benefiting Suicide Awareness and Support

Mercer County, Ohio – We would like to invite all citizens of Mercer County to participate in the upcoming ASSURE (Area Suicide Support Resources) Suicide Awareness & Prevention Walk on Saturday, September 11th, 2021.  This walk is a fundraising event that will fund vital research, education, advocacy, suicide prevention initiatives and programs to support those impacted by suicide in Mercer County.

“Our mission is to bring awareness of suicide prevention practices to the area through community outreach programs. Also, to support those experiencing thoughts of suicide and their families; and to support suicide loss survivors”, said Tonia Bryan (Assure Committee Member).

Ohio ASSURE Suicide Awareness & Prevention Walk is an annual walk that is meant to bring awareness of suicide prevention practices throughout Mercer County and the surrounding area through community outreach programs.

“We do not live in a perfect world. There is NO such thing as a perfect family. Families in our area have been, are and will be touched by mental health issues such as anxiety, panic, or suicidal thoughts. With this walk we are hoping to educate, to prevent people from being affected by or experiencing loss,” stated committee member Marilyn Kahlig.

The Mercer County Ohio community walk will begin at Mercer County fairgrounds at 8:00 am for registration and end at approximately noon.  Opening Ceremonies will begin at 9:00 am and the walk officially starts at 9:15 am.  “It is not necessary to walk the entire time, come when you can, leave when you must, but your support is desperately needed,” stated committee chairman Margie Griesdorn.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health and the CDC, in 2019 in the United States, there were nearly two and a half times more suicides (47,511) as there were homicides (19,141). In Mercer County that same year, local law enforcement encountered just over 40 people who threaten suicide, attempted suicide, or sadly completed suicide. This walk is to bring awareness and hope for those who struggle with life.

Donations to support ASSURE and its mission can be made anytime at www.assuremc.org/donate.

Artists Invited
Call for Entry: 44th Annual Wassenberg Art Center Photography Exhibit

WHERE: Wassenberg Art Center, 214 South Washington Street and Central Avenue, Van Wert OH 45891 

DEADLINE: September 17, 2021

COST: A nonrefundable fee of $25 for members, $30 for non-members and $15 for students entitles a photographer to submit up to 12 entries in total

CONTACT: 419-238-6837 or info@wassenbergartcenter.org www.wassenbergartcenter.org

Call for Entry! Our 44th Annual Photography Exhibit is ramping up and we need your photographs! Open to both adults and youth, amateur or professional, this exhibit is a great way to earn prize money! Entry forms are available online at: wassenbergartcenter.org or can be picked up at the art center. Forms can be emailed by request at: info@wassenbergartcenter.org. The exhibit will open with a free, public reception on October 7 and will be on view through November 7. 

Varied Perspectives, our current exhibit will be on view through September 12. These remarkable, large format works are created by art students from Bowling Green State University. The group of paintings are based on explorations of atmosphere, diversity in education and life after a pandemic. Etta Gallaway, Tiarra Tufts and Isabel Wolke have reasonably priced their work and would be a great addition to any collection.

Watercolor Class: (in-house and ongoing) Tuesday mornings; 10 a.m. – noon. Fee: $55 Regular, $40 WAC member cost. Instructor: Pat Rayman.

ArtReach is back! We are hosting our after-school art program beginning September 7 and September 9 from 3:30 to 5 p.m.  Students ages 7 on up will be taught art techniques by our new instructor Ashley McClure. Call the art center to sign up and/or find additional information. 

The Wassenberg Art Center is located at 214 S. Washington St. Regular gallery hours are Tuesday through Sunday from 1–5 p.m., Thursday from 1–9 p.m., and mornings by appointment. Closed Mondays. We can be reached by telephone at 419-238-6837, email: info@wassenbergartcenter.org.   

 
September 1-5, 2021
 

Parkway Boys Golf on August 30, 2021

Parkway: 178

New Bremen: 188

Medalist: Caden Slusher (41)

Tie for Runner-up: Roman Leszinske (43); Hunter Bruns (43)

Parkway's record: 3-3 (2-2 in the MAC)

New Bremen's record: 0-4 (0-4 in the MAC)

Complete match results here:

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1byiKwr04emJvGhr1m6-5g7rxIa2lBJ8Xx6e-hOqqI-E/edit?usp=sharing

Rockford Car Show and Cruise-In Hailed Success

Rockford Lions Quarter Auction Planned September 12, 2021

The 27th annual Rockford Car Show and Cruise-In was held on Saturday, August 28th, 2021.   From among 70 entries, Joe Holtzapple of Uniopolis, OH was the 2021 Lions Club Award overall winner. Holtzapple, who displayed his 1932 Ford Five Window Coupe received the award from Lion LeeAnn Frank following the event.  The 2021 Car Show and Cruise-In, normally held during Rockford Community Days in June each year, had been postponed due to weather concerns.   

The Rockford Lions Quarter Auction, under the direction of project chair LeeAnn Frank, has been rescheduled for Sunday, September 12, 2021 at the Rockford Community Building, 420 Holly Lane in Rockford. Doors will open at 12:30 pm. The auction will begin at 1:00 pm.  Paddles will be $4 each and All-In paddles will be $35 each at the door. A light lunch will also be available. The first Lions Club Quarter Auction was held in 2019.  The 2020 event was cancelled due to COVID health concerns. 

The Lions Club Chicken Dinner will be held Saturday, October 16th from 11 to 1 pm at the Rockford Carry Out, 156 South Main Street.  This Drive-Thru and Pick Up event will benefit the Parkway Eighth Grade Class Trip. Tickets are $10 and available at the Rockford Carry Out, as well as from any Rockford Lions member.

Proceeds from Rockford Lions Club projects like the Quarter Auction in September, and the Car Show and Cruise-In fund scholarships and help fulfill community needs and requests.

2021The Lion’s Award overall winner; Joe Holtzapple from Uniopolis, OH.

Roadside Herbicide

To spray or not to spray

Roadside herbicide application for the suppression of undesirable vegetation and environmental enhancement, through the use of Environmental Protection Agency approved herbicides, will be performed by licensed personnel along all County Roads in Mercer County and on Township Roads in Butler, Center and Jefferson Townships, starting September 3, 2021 extending thru October 15, 2021, according to the Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart.

Anyone who has sensitive areas adjacent to any road right-of-way and does not wish for those areas to be treated must erect signs reading “Do Not Spray”.

For further information, contact the office of the Mercer County Engineer at 419-586-7759.

Parkway Boys Golf vs. Crestview Results on August 31, 2021

By Ryan Thompson
Photos by Leah Thompson

Above:  Parkway junior Roman Leszinske tees off on Hole 16 at Hickory Sticks. Leszinske defeated his match play opponent 4 and 3.

Above: Parkway senior Caden Slusher chips onto the 17th green on his way to defeat his match play opponent 2 up. 

Parkway defeats Crestview 5-1 in match play.

Parkway's record: 3-2

Crestview's record: ?

Match Play Results - Parkway vs. Crestview - 8/31/2021

Parkway boys golf defeats New Knoxville at Arrowhead Golf Course

Parkway: 185

New Knoxville: 217

Medalist: Roman Leszinske (PW) - 43

Runner-up: Cadan Slusher (PW) - 45

Also scoring for the Panthers:

Gabe Schaaf - 48

Hunter Bruns - 49

Parkway is now 5-3 on the season (3-2 in the MAC)

Complete match results here:

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Jw5ymRvw0yrEByFFZsR14gUnU1Q5IxHmrIKJw8YUFFA/edit?usp=sharing

Pictures from September 2, 2021 match Parkway vs. New Knoxville at Arrowhead. Photos shared by Leah Thompson.

Above: Parkway junior Roman Leszinske tees off on his final hole at Arrowhead golf course Thursday. Leszinske shot a 43 to finish as Medalist and lead the Panthers to a 185-217 victory over the New Knoxville Rangers.

Above: Parkway senior Caden Slusher hits from a fairway bunker on Hole 7 at Arrowhead Golf Course on Thursday. Slusher was the Runner Up Medalist with a 45 as the Panthers defeated the New Knoxville Rangers 185-217. 

 
August 26-31, 2021
 

Mercer County Peri Chapter #13 to Meet

Mercer County Peri Chapter #13 will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, September 14, 2021 at the Hopewell Grange on the Mercer County Fairgrounds in Celina.  The meeting will commence at 10:00 AM with coffee, juice, and doughnuts available beginning at 9:30 AM.

Guest speaker will be Tim Buschur,  Career Technical Director at TriStar Career Compact.  District Representative, Sharon Drerup, will also be present.

PERI Chapter #13 members who are planning on attending the PERI Annual meeting in Columbus on Monday, September 27, 2021 are reminded to complete the registration form available in the PERI Perspectives publication.  The registration deadline is Monday, September 13th.

Come Hear Pastor Doug Meyer at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Doug Meyer back to the pulpit on Sunday, September 5, 2021.

His message, entitled “And We Still Need Watchmen” is based on the Gospel Lesson Mark 18:15-20 ~ for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

Pastor Doug will also be having The Children’s Message time during the service. His home baked cookies are usually involved with the lesson, and the children really look forward to this time with Doug.

Doug delivers a powerful message for those thirsting for the word of God.

Please come and join us at 10 AM.

Please call Becky Shope 419-363-2227 for any questions regarding the worship services.

Visit the St. Paul’s UCC – Rockford Facebook Page for information as well.

 
August 21-25, 2021
 

27^th Annual Car Show and Cruise-In Rescheduled in Rockford

The 27th annual Rockford Car Show and Cruise-In has been rescheduled for Saturday, August 28th, 2021. The event was canceled during Rockford Community Days in June because of weather. 

On August 28ththe Car Show registration will begin at 4 pm at the corner of West Market and Franklin Streets. Judging will begin at 6:30. The Awards ceremony will begin at 8:45 pm.   For additional information, contact Lion Dennis Hecht, project chair @ 419-852-9818.  

The Rockford area band BLIND DATE will provide LIVE music for a ‘Sock Hop or Street Dancing’ beginning at 6:30pm.  Food and drinks will also be available.  Bring your own lawn chair.

Under the direction of project chair LeeAnn Frank, The Rockford Lions have rescheduled their Quarter Auction for Sunday, September 12, 2021. Doors will open at 12:30 pm. The auction will begin at 1:00 pm.  Additional details will be released as they are finalized.  The first Lions Club Quarter Auction was held in 2019.  The 2020 event was cancelled due to COVID health concerns. 

At the Lions Club meeting on July 5th Rockford Lions gave monetary support for a companion service dog specifically trained to assist an autistic youth in the Rockford community.

Proceeds from Rockford Lions Club projects like the Quarter Auction in September, the 27th Annual Rockford Car Show and Cruise-In August 28th, 2021, and the Chicken Dinner project on October 16th, 2021 fund scholarships and help fulfill community needs and requests.

Reverend Doug Meyer was in the pulpit on Sunday, August 15, 2021

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Reverend Doug Meyer to the pulpit on Sunday, August 15, 2021. He called the children forward for the Children’s Message. He had been baking again. The cookies were in the shape of an anchor with a cross in its design. The anchor stood for two lessons: an anchor holds down a boat. An anchor h=keeps us in place Jesus doesn’t want us to drift away from him. Hold on to him. He holds on to us. The children then went to Children’s Church.

Doug continued with the sermon, Doubting, Sinking and Rising Again, which was based on the Gospel scripture of Mark 14:22-33. Mark explains that Peter was walking on the water towards Jesus. Peter suddenly realized what he was doing and the rough water around him. He immediately began to sink and said, “Lord Save me!”. Jesus said to Peter, “Oh you of little faith. Why did you doubt?” Pator Doug explained that we all have times of doubt and wonder if God has deserted us. “How can I weather one more storm?” we ask ourselves. Pastor Doug reminded us that the word of God touches us. The word says he will lift us up and raises us up again and again. He loves us. We all pray, “Lord save me in times of doubt. But He is there, just like he was with Peter. And we need to be anchored to our God. Pastor Doug reminded us that we need to let God catch us. Let us live in Him everyday and anchor ourselves in the Lord Jesus Christ every day.

Reverend Doug Meyer is the retired minister from St. John’s Lutheran Church in Celina serving over 50 years in the ministry of God.  He delivers a powerful message and will be back in the pulpit on Sunday, September 5, 2021.

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ is located at 1538 Oregon Road west of Rockford. Check us out on Facebook!

Koch Scholarship Recipient Honored for 2021

Blaine Hynde, son of Eugene and Diana Hynde and grandson of Dennis and Gloria Laffin who currently attends Elmhurst University and will soon be transferring to a new university was recognized as the recipient of the 2021 Koch Scholarship at St. Paul's United Church of Christ , Rockford and received $1000 towards his college expenses. Barb Baker is shown with Blaine, presenting him with his check, recently.

 
August 18-20, 2021
 

 Mercer County Banner Fair August 13-19, 2021
Click Above
 

Special Parkway School Board Meeting
The Parkway Local Schools Board of Education will hold a Special Meeting on Wednesday, August 18, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room.  The purpose of the meeting will be to go into executive session to discuss the employment and compensation of personnel and negotiations  (preparing, conducting, or reviewing).  Employee pickup of employee contributions and personnel issues will be acted upon after the executive session.

Tuesday, August 17, 2021 will be Back to School Night from 6-8 PM at Parkway

Parkway’s first day of school is Monday, August 23, 2021

Parkway Boys Golf lost to Versailles on Monday, August 16, 2021

Presale tickets for Parkway’s Game on Friday, August 20, 2021 will be for sale from 6-8 PM on Tuesday during Back to School Night.

Parkway’s Community Football Bonfire will be Thursday, August 19, 2021 at 7 PM. The location is 6839 St. Rt. 117, Rockford. Everyone is welcome!

Parkway Class of 1972 Outlines the 2022 Reunion Celebartion

The Parkway Class of 1972 50th Reunion Committee met recently. The plans for the Reunion location were firmed-up at Van Wert Willow Bend Gulf Club House on Saturday, September 24, 2022. Arrival time is at 4:00 PM to allow for more visiting among classmates and guests; pictures will be at 6:00 PM followed by a cash bar, and a buffet style meal eating at 6:30 PM. This window of time will allow for more flexibility to classmates’ schedules.

The Dinner Menu is very nice but still affordable. Cost is $35.00 per person or $70.00 per couple. Drinks are included  and a cash bar will be available. This cost will also include a small 50th souvenir gift.

Friday evening, September 23, 2022 will be a get-together at the Parkway High School Football Game.

Any phone numbers, or address changes please give to Peg Snider Severt 419-852-8040 or email to peggy@pegboardcrafts.com.

The committee is asking you to also help in contacting as many Class Mates as possible. Invite them to join our Face Book site. Parkway Class of 72. This will allow them to follow and attend if they want.

A Big Thank you goes out for donations to the Pickle Ball Courts in Rockford

The Village of Rockford would like to give thanks for the generosity of the following organizations, businesses and
individuals who have made donations towards the pickle ball courts :

A. Brandt Construction
Alan and Kay Brandt
Shanes Park Board of Trustees
Brandy Krogman
Rockford Rec Association
Second Crossing Brew Co. 
Rockford community Days Proceeds 

Working together makes the community better !

New 1820 Replica Flag Donated


This flag was donated by the Rockford Legion in honor of the Rockford Bicentennial and is a replica of the USA flag of
1820 when Rockford was established.  

Ohio was the 17th state entered into the United States on March 1, 1803.   In 1820 there were 23 states represented
with the 23 stars.

Thank you Rockford American Legion Post 508 for your generous gift.  

Enyart Flooring & Home Decorating Joins Mercer County Chamber of Commerce
The Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome new Chamber Member, Enyart Flooring & Home Decorating. Enyart Flooring offers experienced interior design consultants and professional installers to create beautiful living spaces that reflect the taste and lifestyles of the clients they serve.  With over 50 years of combined experience, their staff will accommodate light remodels, residential, and commercial grade projects. Located at 577 S. Second Street in Coldwater, Enyart’s is locally owned and operated by Mark Enyart. Enyart Flooring is excited to serve you.  Call 419-678-8777 to inquire on their services.  Enyart Flooring is also accepting the Celina Mercer County Chamber gift certificates.  Welcome Enyart Flooring to the Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce!

BROWN ANNOUNCES $300,000 FOR WATER INFRASTRUCTURE IN MERCER COUNTY

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced that the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Office of Rural Development has awarded a $300,000 grant to Midwest Electric, Inc. in Mercer County to improve the sanitary, storm and sewer systems, and roads at the Marion Township Industrial Park.

“Strong water and sewer infrastructure is critical to Ohio communities’ ability to be economically competitive,” Brown said. “This funding will help attract jobs and businesses to the area, and spur future investment in Mercer County. I will continue to advocate for federal resources for rural communities across Ohio.”

USDA’s Rural Development program provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas by supporting infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas.

Brown has been a leader for Ohio’s rural communities, successfully securing a number of provisions that are important to Ohio farmers in the 2018 Farm Bill. He is the first Ohioan to serve on the Senate Agriculture Committee in more than 50 years.

Heroin Interdiction Team Makes Arrests

 Mercer County Sheriff, Jeff Grey reports that the HIT Team (Heroin Interdiction Team) conducted a detail on Tuesday (July 27th, 2021).  The HIT Team focused on individuals and locations that have been reported in using, selling and transporting narcotics.  The HIT Team is made up of members of the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, Celina Police Department and Coldwater Police Department.

The HIT Team made 11 traffic stops and issued 5 traffic citations.  The HIT Team also made 8 arrest and served one search warrant on a residence.

Arrested were the following people.

Amanda K Hatfield 42 years of age, of 402 S Main Street Celina, Ohio.  Hatfield was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine a Felony of the fifth degree.  Her bond was set at $50,000.00 subject to 10%.

Amber G Archer 36 years of age, of 640 North Street Celina, Ohio.  Archer was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine a Felony of the fifth degree.  Her bond was also set at $50,000.00 subject to 10%.

Christopher A Boop 40 years of age, of 319 Haller Street Lima, Ohio.  Boop was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine a Felony of the fifth degree. His bond was also set at $50,000.00 subject to 10%.

Corey W Miller 39 years of age, of 101 Ada Ave Celina, Ohio.  Miller was arrested for OVI a Misdemeanor of the first degree.  He was released after his arrest.

Lati Hiram 37 years of age, of 1440 Meadowview Drive Apt 6 Celina, Ohio.  Hiram was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine a Felony of the fifth degree.  His bond was set at $50,000.00 subject to 10%.

Elaine N Trigo 38 years of age, of 440 Touvelle Street Lot 4 Celina, Ohio. Trigo was arrested for Contributing to the Delinquency of Minor and Possession of Drug Abuse Instruments, both Misdemeanors of the first degree, her bond is $2,000.00 on each charge, both subject to 10%.

Melinda L Sawmiller 58 years of age, of 440 Touvelle Street Lot 4 Celina, Ohio.  Sawmiller was arrested for Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor a Misdemeanor of the first degree. Her bond was $2,000.00 subject to 10%, she posted bond later in the evening.

Corbin M Houser 20 years of age, of 5506 Johnston Road Celina, Ohio.  Houser was arrested for Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor a Misdemeanor of the first degree.  His bond was set at $2,000.00 subject to 10%.  He posted bond later in the evening.

There was also one vehicle towed from a traffic stop that had suspected stolen items inside.  That vehicle was secured and deputies/officers will be applying for a search warrant on the vehicle today (7-28-2021).   There is also a juvenile suspect involved in one of the cases of possession of Methamphetamines and that case will be sent to the Mercer County Prosecutors Office for review of charges. 

Members of the HIT Team were assisted by the Mercer County Prosecutors Office in applying for a search warrant last evening, they will also be reviewing all of the above arrests for any additional charges.   Also assisting was the Mercer County Job and Family Services in placing the juvenile.   Celina Municipal Court Judge Kathryn Speelman had set the bond on the possession cases. 

Sheriff Grey and Celina Police Chief Tom Wale remind citizens to continue to call their local law enforcement with drug tips.  Grey and Wale stated that these tips help their deputies/officers focus on people and houses where suspected drug activity occurs.

By Jeff Grey

Sheriff

Van Wert Fair Concert Headlines Chris Lane
Bringing live concerts back to the Van Wert County Fair at the Grandstand is a Van Wert Live collaboration that demands an artist worthy of the occasion. Multi-Platinum Country music star Chris Lane was carefully selected to headline with Country Pop Artist, CAM to kick off the night of entertainment in Van Wert.

The weekend before Chris Lane comes to Van Wert, he will perform the pre-race concert prior to the start of one of the summer’s most anticipated sporting events – the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway on Saturday, Aug. 28, the “last-chance” race for drivers to make the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Playoff field.

Lane’s star continues to rise with 1.2 billion on-demand streams and three #1 hits – PLATINUM “Fix,” 2X PLATINUM “I Don’t Know About You,” and PLATINUM-certified “Big, Big Plans.” Now kicking off his next chapter with brand-new single, “Fill Them Boots,” Lane has previously shared the bill with Florida Georgia Line, Kane Brown, Brad Paisley, and Dan + Shay, and is set to headline his FILL THEM BOOTS TOUR this fall.

“I can’t wait to get the fans fired up for an incredible night of racing at Daytona International Speedway,” shared Lane. “You can’t beat a night of Country music, fast cars and good times, and I’m excited to start the party at The World Center of Racing,” shares the personable Chris Lane.

Tickets from $29 are still available for the September 4 concert at 7:30 PM at the Grandstand as part of the Van Wert County Fair. (Box Office: vanwertlive.com or 419-238-6722) We hope that you will be part of this momentous opportunity to be part of a new era of entertainment at The Grandstand. This is just the beginning and we are honored that Chris Lane chose Van Wert as his performance destination.

Shultz Huber & Associates, Inc. welcome two new team members

Shultz Huber & Associates, Inc. is pleased to welcome two new team members. Kara May and Clara Snavley recently joined the Firm, working in the St. Marys office.

May is a staff accountant. Her primary responsibilities include preparation of business and individual tax returns, bookkeeping, and preparation of financial statements. She has a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Ohio Northern University.

Snavley is a payroll specialist. She prepares clients’ payrolls and handles payroll-related tax deposits and reporting. Snavley has a certificate in accounting from Columbus State Community College, along with a bachelor’s degree from The Ohio State University.

Shultz Huber & Associates, Inc. is a full-service accounting, tax and business consulting CPA firm specializing in assisting businesses and their owners plan for their future and achieve their goals in an ever-changing financial and regulatory environment. Offices are located in Archbold, Bryan, Defiance, St. Marys and Van Wert, Ohio, with seven shareholders and 60 employees.

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Road Closures – Temporary

The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is announcing the closing (week of August 23rd) of Riley Road between SR 197 and Howick Road for intersection road grade improvements.  This road will be closed for approximately two weeks depending on the weather conditions. 

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

New Physician Joins Van Wert Health Center for Urology

Van Wert Health is pleased to announce that Colin Linke, D.O. has joined its practice. Dr. Linke joins Dr. Nik Kiehl, Dr. Scott Shie, and Brandi Alwine, PA-C at the Van Wert Health Center for Urology, located at 140 Fox Road, Suite 105, Van Wert, Ohio (formerly known as the Medical Arts Building).

Dr. Linke has been expertly trained in general urology and urological surgery for both men and women.  His special clinical interests include treatment of urologic cancers and using surgically minimally-invasive techniques, including robotic surgery, to treat benign and malignant diseases.

Dr. Linke received his medical degree from Lincoln Memorial University Medical School in Harrogate, Tennessee. He completed his residency in urology at the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans.

“We are privileged to welcome another outstanding and talented urologist here at Van Wert Health,” said Jim Pope, President and CEO.  “Van Wert Health is growing and continually looking for ways to offer our patients additional services along the continuum of care.”

The providers at the Van Wert Health Center for Urology treat a variety of urologic conditions and disorders, including urologic cancers.  The center offers procedures, including vasectomies, along with medicinal and surgical treatments for voiding dysfunction, enlarged prostates, incontinence, kidney stones, male infertility, and other urologic disorders. 

Providers at the Van Wert Health Center for Urology are accepting new patients.  For more information about the services offered visit vanwerthealth.org or call 419-232-6051. 

New Primary Care Physician Joins Van Wert Health

Van Wert, OH – Board-certified family medicine physician John Sharma, MD, has joined Van Wert Health. Dr. Sharma specializes in comprehensive care for newborns, children, adolescents, and adults.

His special clinical interests include preventative and lifestyle medicine, and chronic illness management. He provides quality, evidence-based care in an approachable setting and enjoys collaborating with patients to diagnose and treat a broad spectrum of health concerns to achieve their health goals.

“I am so happy to welcome Dr. Sharma to both Van Wert Health and our community,” said Jim Pope, President and CEO of Van Wert Health.  “Family medicine is an essential component of whole-patient care and we know Dr. Sharma will be an asset to our patients and team.”

Dr. Sharma earned his medical degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine, followed by a residency in Family Medicine at William Beaumont Hospital in Troy, Michigan. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians.

He will care for patients at both Van Wert Health – Rockford (506 South Main St., Rockford, OH) and at Van Wert Health – North (214 Towne Center Blvd, Van Wert, OH).  To schedule an appointment, call 419-363-3008.

 
August 12-17, 2021
 

 Mercer County Banner Fair August 13-19, 2021
Click Above

Two County Road Closures Announced

The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is announcing the closing (week of August 9th) of Staeger Road between SR 197 and Old Town Road for intersection road grade improvements.  This road will be closed for approximately two weeks depending on the weather conditions.   

The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is announcing the temporary closing of Ft. Recovery Minster Road between Township Line Road and Erastus Durbin Road for shoulder widening – ditch layover – roadway improvement.  This road will be closed intermittently from 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday thru Thursday over the next 4-5 weeks or so during the construction season.  There may be limited overnight closures as well.  Work is set to be completed by early September 2021. 

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

Nurse Practitioner Joins Van Wert Health

Van Wert Health is pleased to announce that Abbie Evans, Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC), has joined the team at the Walk-in Clinic, located at Van Wert Health North. 

Abbie is board certified and a member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the Ohio Association of Advanced Practice Nurses since 2017. Evans has previous experience with family medicine, women’s health, and obstetrics.

“We are very pleased to welcome Abbie Evans aboard at our walk-in clinic in Van Wert,” said Jim Pope, President and CEO of Van Wert Health.  “Since Van Wert Health North opened three years ago, we’ve set a standard for expert walk-in care with a primary focus on providing appropriate care in the right setting that is expedient and affordable.”

Located off of US-30, the Walk-in Clinic is open seven days a week, with extended hours during the week.  For more information about the clinic and hours of operation, visit vanwerthealth.org or call 419-605-0850.

Parkway August 2021 Printable Combined Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – August 11, 2021

CELINA- As of August 11, 2021, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 4,211 confirmed cases, 807 probable cases, 4,035 recovered cases, 1 hospitalization, 87 COVID-19 deaths, and 19 probable deaths of COVID-19. In addition, there have been 46 confirmed cases who have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19. Today, there are 41 known active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County.

Since June 16, 2021, the MCHD has reported COVID-19 vaccine breakthrough infections in each weekly COVID-19 update. For the purposes of this reporting, all fully-vaccinated individuals who are infected with COVID-19 have been reported as either confirmed or probable breakthrough cases, depending on the circumstances of each case.

As of May 1, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) transitioned from monitoring all reported vaccine breakthrough cases to identifying and investigating only hospitalized or fatal cases.

Ohio Department of Health (ODH) has set guidelines for health departments to report vaccine breakthrough cases to the state. The criteria are as follows:

COVID-19-related hospitalization or death

U.S. Resident

Completed full primary series of an FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccine.

SARS-CoV-2 RNA or antigen detected on a respiratory specimen collected ≥14 days after completing the primary series of an FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccine.

No known positive test for SARS-CoV-2 RNA or antigen detected on a respiratory specimen collected <45 days before the most recent positive test. 

Today, the MCHD reports eight confirmed and six probable cases of COVID-19 among fully vaccinated individuals. According to the reporting guidelines issued by ODH, only one of these people was hospitalized, meaning only one is considered a breakthrough case. To best inform our community, MCHD will continue to publicly report the overall number of cases of COVID-19 among fully vaccinated individuals in addition to the hospitalized breakthrough cases that must be reported to the Ohio Department of Health. 

COVID-19 cases have increased significantly in Mercer County in recent weeks. As of today, the transmission rate in Mercer County is high. A high transmission rate is defined as 100 or more new cases per 100,000 people in a 7-day period or a test positivity rate of 10% or higher. Mercer county has reported 82 cases per 100,000 people in the past seven days and has a test positivity rate of 10.91%.

While the COVID-19 transmission rate is at substantial or high levels, people are encouraged to wear a mask when in indoor public locations to protect themselves and others. Masks are most important when around people with weakened immune systems or increased risk of severe disease, and when distance cannot be maintained between people. While N95 masks offer protection to the wearer, surgical and cloth masks are most effective in controlling the release of droplets from those who may carry the virus by stopping the droplets before they separate into smaller particles capable of traveling through the air.

The MCHD offers the COVID-19 vaccine every Friday at the MCHD office. Please call 419-586-3251 extension 1462 to ask questions or schedule an appointment.

Van Wert County COVID-19 update
On August 12, 2021, the Van Wert County General Health District reports 61 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 since Thursday, July 29, 2021 for a total of 2,532 confirmed cases. We have 3 known hospitalizations of county residents due to COVID-19. To date the health department has given 11,245 COVID-19 vaccinations. The following COVID-19 vaccination clinics are scheduled at this time:

Thursday, August 12, 2-4 pm

Thursday, August 19, 2-4 pm

Thursday, August 26, 2-4 pm

Currently, all clinics are being held at the VW County Health Department.

All clinics will have Moderna and Pfizer vaccine available. Pfizer vaccine has been approved for all those age 12 and up and Moderna is available to all those age 18 and up. Unless specified, the clinics dates are for all those who wish to receive a first dose and anyone eligible to receive their second dose of that vaccine. Please bring your photo id and any insurance info. Those under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian present as well as proof of age such as a shot record or birth certificate. The health department is not making appointments at this time, as all clinics are walk-in only. The public can also contact Family Healthcare of Northwest Ohio at 419-238-6747 and Van Wert Family Physicians at 419-238-6251 to schedule an appointment.

See the Nutcracker for a Beloved Ballet Experience

Christmas is a treasured time at the Niswonger as families throughout the region steal away from the hustle and bustle and relax together for entertainment from the Niswonger stage of inspiration. The Nutcracker, performed by The Ballet Theatre of Toledo, is a lavish and spectacular ballet choreographed by Nigel Burgoine. The music and movement will keep you on the edge of your seat with some unexpected surprises from the original classic. Grandparents and parents alike can delight the family with a night of seasonal artistry filled with Sugar Plum Fairies and oh-so-sweet memories.

Presented by Jim and Mary Pope, The Nutcracker will set the perfect tone for family Christmas memory-making on Saturday, December 11th at 7:30 PM.

VWLive Event and Membership information can be found at vanwertlive.com or through the Box Office by phone 419-238-6722 or in-person from Noon - 4 PM, Monday through Thursday, and Noon - 6 PM on Friday. 

Van Wert County General Health District notes rise in COVID-19 cases

Van Wert County General Health District notes rise in COVID-19 cases and encourages mask use The Van Wert County General Health District is closely monitoring increasing COVID-19 cases within Van Wert County and the surrounding area. After spending much of the summer averaging less than one case per day, Van Wert County has recently received 19 cases of COVID-19 in the past week. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Van Wert County is considered to be a county of substantial transmission of the COVID-19 virus. Levels of community transmission are determined by the CDC using the total number of cases per 100,000 persons in the previous 7 days as well as the percentage of positive COVID-19 tests in the same time period. As of August 1, 2021, Van Wert County has had 20 new COVID-19 cases, or a rate of 70.73 per 100,000 residents. In addition, Van Wert County is now experiencing a positivity rate of 7.1% which is an increase over the past 7 days of 3.29%. Based on the most recent CDC guidance, the CDC recommends that fully vaccinated individuals wear masks in indoor public settings in communities with substantial or high transmission rates. Van Wert County as noted meets the CDC definition of having a substantial rate of transmission.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently updated its interim public health recommendations for limiting the spread of COVID-19 in response to the Delta variant, which is driving an increase in cases across the U.S.

In its updated guidance, the CDC issued the following recommendations:

In areas of substantial or high transmission, CDC recommends that fully vaccinated people: o Wear a mask in public indoor settings o Get tested if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms; isolate for 10 days if they have tested positive for COVID-19 in the prior 10 days or are experiencing symptoms. o Get tested 3-5 days after exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID19, and wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days or until they receive a negative test result.  Fully vaccinated people can participate in many of the activities that they did before the· pandemic. For some of these activities, they may choose to wear a mask.  Outdoor activities pose minimal risk to fully vaccinated people. Fully vaccinated people· may choose to wear a mask in crowded outdoor settings.  Fully vaccinated people may choose to wear a mask regardless of the level of· transmission, particularly if they are at increased risk of severe disease from COVID-19, or if someone in their household is immuno-compromised, at increased risk of severe disease or not fully vaccinated. Guidelines for unvaccinated individuals remain the same – masks should be worn when individuals are inside public places and outdoors when unable to socially distance (6 feet away from other individuals). Additionally, all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, are still required to wear a mask while on public transportation (planes, trains and busses) and at transportation hubs such as airports, train stations and bus terminals. The only way we will defeat this pandemic is by working together. By applying the tools we have—getting vaccinated, masking, distancing and limiting indoor gatherings—we can limit the spread of COVID-19 in Van Wert County. Everyone can play a part. Stay informed by checking our website—vanwertcountyhealth.org—for updated information and learning what you can to help protect yourselves and each other from COVID-19.

Rockford Bicentennial Barn Quilt trail is growing

The Rockford Bicentennial Barn Quilt trail is growing towards Willshire to continue the
trail through their community.  

Quilts are on sale at the Village Hall in Rockford or the Photo Star Office in Willshire .
There are new quilts for sale. Above is the sunflower design.
A beautiful compliment to your home !

To design and order your own creation call Barb Pedroza in Rockford at 419-305-1272 or
Kim Carr in Willshire at 419-605-6740.

Come Hear Pastor Steve Howell at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Steve Howell back to the pulpit on Sunday, August 22, 2021. His message entitled “Being Set Free” is based on the Gospel Lesson John 8:31-36 ~ for those of you who like to follow the scriptures. Steve has been in the ministry for 50 years and is retired from Grace Missionary Church in Celina.

Please call Becky Shope 419-363-2227 for any questions regarding the worship services.

Visit the St. Paul’s UCC – Rockford Facebook Page for information as well.

Our Old Bookcase, sent August 12, 2021, Hawaii became a State of the U.S.A. in 1959.

= = = = =

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

 Photo Caption:  “Hawaii is our tropical Paradise,” was noted in the book, “Around the World in 1,000 pictures,”  edited by A. Milton Runyon and Vilma  F. Bergane, in 1954, and 1959, published by Doubleday & Co., Inc. New York.  The photo was from the Hawaii Visitors Bureau.

The topic of Statehood for Hawaii had been discussed in Hawaii and in the U.S. Congress, since 1903.  As of August 1916, the United States established two National Parks:  the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and the Haleakala, Maui,  Hawaii National Park. 

The interest in Statehood for Hawaii continued until the U.S. Congress passed the enabling act for Hawaiian Statehood, and President Eisenhower signed the act on March 18, 1959.  The Citizens of Hawaii voted for Statehood on June 29, 1959.  Two months later, on August 21, 1959, Daniel K. Inouye became Hawaii’s first voting Member of the U.S. House of Representative as Hawaii became the 50th State of the United States of America.

In June 1975, two of the Mercer County Commissioners Ralph Klosterman and Ralph Dicke, and Mercer County Clerk of Courts Dwight Laffin made their first formal visit to Honolulu, after the Mercer County Commissioners passed the June 10, 1975 Resolutions # 267 and # 276 to provide $1000.00 to each of the three elected officials to attend the Convention for the National Association of Counties Annual Conference at Honolulu.  The third Commissioner George Bihn chose not to accept the free trip.  

While the two Commissioners were discussing the Hawaiian Islands, Commissioner George Bihn was discussing with me about working for the Mercer County Commissioners as an Ohio Public Employee and serving as Director of the Mercer County Historical Museum.  The Commissioners appointed me as Director of the Mercer County Historical Museum on August 25, 1975.

When my brother’s wife Karen Brumm and I were taking a cruise in the Caribbean Islands, Puerto Rico was one of the sites we visited.  The citizens of Puerto Rico talked about U.S.  Statehood for Puerto Rico.  Those citizens said that they did not want to become a State of the U.S.A. because they were receiving too much money from the United States Government to change that status. 

On March 2, 2021, the 117th Congress, in its 1st Session, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 1522, to provide for the admission of the State of Puerto Rico into the Union.  The full text of this document can be found on source of information for the people, i.e. Google.com.  I could not believe the rest of the controversial news about Statehood for Puerto Rico.

Sadly, this idea of Statehood for Puerto Rico suddenly became a political football.  Has the United States Congress been reduced to decisions being made by personal political agendas, rather than what is best for the citizens of the United States? I can understand when Senior Citizens tell me that they no longer watch the news on television.  In reference to Mercer County’s history being made today, may I ask which Mercer County Ohio businesses or industries are doing business with Puerto Rico? 

[Mercer County Historical Society President Joyce Alig may be contacted at 3054 Burk-St. Henry Road, Saint Henry, OH 45883,

Businesses temporarily relocate for Phase 1 of Van Wert Forward

Historic revitalization of downtown Van Wert is set to begin this fall

Two downtown Van Wert businesses temporarily relocate to make way for Phase 1 of Van Wert Forward to start soon. 

Rhoades Insurance and The Warehouse have temporarily relocated to other downtown Van Wert storefronts. Rhoades Insurance is now located at 122 N. Washington St. (besides the Chamber of Commerce office). The Warehouse is relocated to 105 W. Main St. (beside Elite Interiors).

Both businesses continue to operate as usual and offer the same services as at their previous locations. They will transition back into their original sites after the historic renovations. 

Phase 1 of the Van Wert Forward project includes public and private space improvements and has 12 parcels which will be consolidated into five parcels, featuring approximately 13 commercial spaces and 37 residential units.

The project involves three clusters in the downtown area – north, central, and south. 

The early construction won't be as noticeable as it will be inside work. Demolition work should begin in several weeks, with project completion currently slated for late 2022 or early 2023.

"We understand the construction process will take between 12 and 18 months for each of those spaces, depending on the size of the space before a business or resident can begin to move into a space," Seth Baker, CEO of The Van Wert County Foundation shares.

The kickoff ceremony is in conjunction with the Harvest Moon Festival, Saturday, September 24, 2021. For more information on Van Wert Forward, visit vanwertforward.org

 
August 9-11, 2021
 

Citizen Academy Coming to Mercer County Sheriff Department
Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today that his office will be hosting a Citizen Academy in October - November of 2021.  The purpose of the academy is to give residents of Mercer County the opportunity to see an overview of Sheriff’s Office, and how it differs from other law enforcement agencies.

This will be the seventh citizen’s academy for the Sheriff’s Office.  The first Mercer County Citizen’s Academy was hosted in 2013 and culminated in the graduation of (11) students.  We have had (83) students graduate from the academy since it was established.  The classes have consisted of citizens from different backgrounds, age groups, and geographical areas of Mercer County.  The participants attend classes that are classroom based, observe demonstrations, take tours of the facilities, and participate in hands on training sessions.  They are also provided with an opportunity to “job shadow” with staff members.

The 2021 academy will take place from October 19, 2021 until November 11, 2021, and will usually be held two evenings per week for a four week period.  The classes will begin at 6 p.m. and will last for 2-3 hours per session.

The academy is open to residents of Mercer County, who are at least 21 year old.   A background check is required.  Class size is limit.  Interested persons can stop at the Sheriff’s Office during office hours or go to our website at www.mercercountysheriffohio.gov to obtain an application packet.  Completed applications need to be returned to the Sheriff’s Office by September 13, 2021.  If anyone has any questions they may contact Citizen’s Academy Coordinator, Sergeant Jay Wehrkamp, at (419) 586-7724.

Parkway School Board Agenda for a Regular Meeting on August 9, 2021 at 6:30
by Sally Cox

Come Hear Pastor Doug Meyer at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Doug Meyer back to the pulpit on Sunday, August 15, 2021. His message entitled “Doubting, sinking, Rising Again” is based on the Gospel Lesson Mark 14:22-33 - for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

Pastor Doug will also be having The Children’s Message time during the service.

Please call Becky Shope 419-363-2227 for any questions regarding the worship services.

Visit the St. Paul’s UCC – Rockford Facebook Page for information as well.

Join Stateline Writers Club
The Stateline Writers Club will meet Saturday, Aug. 21 at 10 a.m. in the Mercer County District Library meeting room in Celina. The writing topic for the meeting is "The Talent That Made A Difference In My Life."

Feel Good Fridays
by Tafi Stober

Feel Good Fridays for 2021 end with some big brass! It has been a summer of musical memories in Fountain Park as every Friday was a different genre. Guests from all ages enjoyed diverse selections from Ragtime favorites to Arena Show Rock hits. Here we are with one final Friday to celebrate free music in Fountain Park made possible by the Van Wert County Foundation. How fitting that the return of Old Crown Brass will triumphantly close the summer series with great flourish.

The Old Crown Brass Band was founded in 2007 and has become one of Fort Wayne, Indiana’s premier performing ensembles. The band is a traditional British brass band and plays all styles of music.  The 32-piece brass and percussion ensemble is made up of members of the Fort Wayne Philharmonic, local music educators, and freelance musicians. All members of the band are non-compensated and share a passion for brass band music. While conforming to the model of the traditional British brass band, the band programs all types of music including marches, jazz arrangements, show and movie scores, and orchestral transcriptions.  The band also has formed  a separate performing  ensemble known as the “Black Swamp Ten.”

The concert will begin at 7:30 PM at Fountain Park, weather permitting. The determination for a change of venue due to rain will be made by 5 PM on Thursday. Please tune into the Niswonger Performing Arts Center for the concert location. We look forward to celebrating the gift of music with you this Feel Good Friday in Van Wert.

Parkway Boys 2021 Golf at Harrod, OH
by Ryan Thompson

Parkway boys golf kicked off the 2021 high school golf season with a 6th place finish at the Rob Contini Invitational played on August 5th at the Colonial Golfers Club in Harrod, OH.

The Panthers were led by senior Gabe Schaaf with an 87. Also scoring for Parkway were Caden Slusher, Roman Leszinske, and Hunter Bruns.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH – Van Wert - ANNOUNCES
OPERATION BACK TO SCHOOL FOR HIGH SCHOOL

First United Methodist Church, located at 113 W. Central Avenue in Van Wert, in partnership with many Van Wert businesses and churches, has set the date of Thursday, August 19th for their 6th Annual Operation Back to School event for Van Wert County high school students.  This FREE event provides backpacks, school supplies, and hygiene items.  High School students from the area may pre-register online at www.vanwertfirst.net by following the “Operation Back to School” high school student registration link or by stopping by the church office to fill out a registration form.  Pre-registration is highly encouraged.  The event will begin at 6:30 pm, with games, food and a visit from the band ATTABOY at 7:30pm. Any student, whether school supplies are needed or not, should plan to come enjoy the evening activities. 

Anyone wishing to volunteer at the event, to donate to help the project or for more information please call Teresa at First Church 419-238-0631 ext 307. You can also check out our website at www.vanwertfirst.net and look through the ‘Operation Back to School’ and ‘eGiving’ links. VENMO has also been added to our ability to accept donations using: @FirstUnited-Methodist.

Scam Going Around in Mercer County – BEWARE!
Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today of a potential scam circulating in Mercer County. Callers are advising that they are receiving phone calls from a person claiming to be a “deputy” from our office stating that they missed jury duty on August 5th, 2021 and that there is now a warrant for their arrest for failure to appear. The scammers then tell the victim that they need to go to Walmart and buy 4 gift cards that start with a certain number on the card.

The scammer will then request the card number and tell the victim that they will take care of the warrant for them. In some cases, after the card numbers are given to the scammer, they tell the victim that the last card did not go through and now there are additional warrants on that person’s name and request another thousands of dollars’ worth of cards.  

People are being told that if they call our office to check the validity of this, they will be arrested. This is not true. The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office would NEVER ask for money or gift cards to clear a warrant; nor will you be arrested if you call our office to check the validity of the accusations.

If you receive one of these calls, please hang up immediately and call our central dispatch at 419-586-7724. These scam calls do appear to be coming from a “419” area code, but these calls are more than likely “cloned” from actual numbers. As a reminder, never give out personal information over the phone.

You can check to see if you have an active warrant by visiting the Sheriff’s Office website at www.mercercountysheriffohio.gov.

Jeff Grey

Mercer County Sheriff

Library Board to Meet

The Rockford Carnegie Library will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, August 11, 2021 at 4 p.m. in the library basement. The public is invited to attend.

Judge Matthew Gilmore helps bring a voice to kids involved in the Mercer County Juvenile Court by initiating the CASA of Mercer County Program

A new program is underway in Mercer County to assist children who are abused and neglected. 

The CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) of Mercer County Program is a court-based program that recruits and trains community volunteers to become Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) for children who are alleged to be abused, neglected, and/or dependent.

A Court Appointed Special Advocate, or CASA, is a person appointed by Mercer County Juvenile Court Judge Matthew Gilmore to represent the best interests of a child during a court proceeding. The purpose of the CASA Program is to provide the Court with Guardians who will give the Judge a thoughtful recommendation on what should be planned for the child, based on the CASA's independent investigation of the facts. The Program's goal is twofold: to provide quality representation for the children of Mercer County through volunteer participation and to involve more community members and make them aware of the problems facing abused, neglected, and dependent children.

The Mercer County Juvenile Court received a grant from New CASA Startup Funds to begin the CASA of Mercer County Program.  Mercer County Juvenile Court Magistrate Richard Delzeith is the Court Administrator.  Nick Schulze has been appointed as the Executive Director of the Program, and Kip Wright has been appointed as the Coordinator of Volunteer Services.

For an application or additional information, please contact: Mercer County Juvenile Court at (419) 586-1249 or by email at: CASA@mercercountycourts.com

Don’t have time to volunteer? You can still be a key part of the solution by: (1) Volunteering in another capacity, such as office support or events; or (2) By financially supporting CASA of Mercer County, either individually or through a company. Connect with us at www.mercercountycourts.com.

 
August 5-8, 2021
 

57 acres of beautiful sunflowers are on display as they are in full bloom right now. There is a 23 acre walk-able hydrological map of Ohio on the farm of Vaughn Davis and Beth Cole, business co-owner. There will also be food and drinks, local vendors, and wagon rides. Pick your own sunflowers and take plenty of pictures.

Facebook or www.schoolhouse-farms.com - for more information!

 
July 21, 2021 - August 4, 2021
 

Schumm Reunion Set
Schumm family members are reminded of the upcoming Schumm Reunion on Sunday, August 1 at the grounds of Zion Lutheran Church (Schumm).  Guest speaker for the afternoon program will be our own Spank Schumm of Rockford, speaking about the early history of the area. 

Conducting the morning church service at 10 will be the Rev Herbert Schumm from Fort Wayne, and conducting a bible study from 9 to 9:45 am will be Dr Harold Moellering of Columbus, Ohio (and Ohio State University).  We invite you to a fun--and informative--day of family history. 

 
July 17-20, 2021
 

Pickleball Courts Open in Rockford
Pickleball is a fun sport that combines many elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. Pickleball can be played both
indoors or outdoors on a badminton-sized court using a slightly modified tennis net. It is played as doubles or singles
with a paddle and a plastic ball with holes. The sport has many physical and social benefits.

Rockford, OH  has 4 permanent outdoor pickleball courts located at Shanes Park – located at 506 W Bridge  (formerly the
trailer park area)  These courts are open from dawn to dusk.     The courts are OPEN ~~  but the area is still under construction.   Sidewalks, parking and restrooms are works in progress.

Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

Parkway New Student Registration Days

Parkway Local Schools will be holding Registration Days on Wednesday, August 11 and Thursday, August 12 from noon - 6:00 p.m. Only those students in K -12 who are brand new to the district need to register. Our registration forms can now be completed online from our website.  Beginning August 2, please call the appropriate office at 419-363-3045, if you need assistance registering and to schedule a time to bring the necessary documents to the school to finalize the registration process on one of these two days.  If parents of incoming Kindergarten students have not notified the elementary office that their child will be attending school this fall, they should complete the online registration and call the office.

Rockford Recreation Registration for Fall Sports - Deadline August 13, 2021
The Rockford Recreation Association is currently accepting registration forms for the 2021 fall sports season. Registration and medical forms can be printed from www.rockfordrec.com or picked up at the Rockford Village Office or the Rockford Carnegie Library.

FLAG FOOTBALL:

The 2021 Fall Flag Football League is open to boys and girls entering grades 1-6. Flag football games will be played on Monday evenings at Shanes park through the months of September and October. The registration fee is $25.00 per child and each participant will receive a team jersey and a mouthpiece. Mouthpieces are required to participate in all practices and games. Flag Football Registration:

https://8c1bff43-c651-41d9-a648-00dc4d428136.filesusr.com...

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: AUGUST 5TH

SOCCER:

The 2021 Fall Soccer League is open to boys and girls entering grades K-6. Games will be played on Sunday afternoons at Shanes Park through the months of September and October. The registration fee is $25.00 per child and each participant will receive a team jersey. Each player is required to provide their own shin guards. Fall Soccer Registration:

https://8c1bff43-c651-41d9-a648-00dc4d428136.filesusr.com...

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: AUGUST 13, 2021

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

Mercer Health awards first Medical Student Scholarship to Celina High School alum 

Mercer Health awarded the first Medical Student Scholarship to Tyus Temple, a 2014 Celina High School graduate currently working toward his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree at Ohio University.

Temple, selected as the scholarship recipient based on his academic merit and plans to return to the area to serve the community as a medical provider upon completing his education. “The concept of community and helping those in my community is what made me want to go into medicine,” Temple said. “And being active within my community is something I plan on doing once I am a physician.”

Temple also received a MED Foundation scholarship as a high school senior in 2014.

The medical staff of Mercer Health initiated this scholarship program to support medical students from Mercer County and the surrounding area, as well as medical students who have participated in rotations at Mercer Health, in 2020. 

The Mercer Health Medical Student Scholarship awards $2,000 annually to a medical school student who has shown a strong connection to Mercer Health or the surrounding communities. The scholarship is awarded for a one-year period and provided directly to the student.

To be considered for this year’s scholarship, applicants must be a resident of the United States who is currently enrolled as a 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year medical student in an accredited MD/DO school located in the United States. Applicant must either be a resident of Mercer County or one of the adjacent counties for at least 12 months prior to registering as a medical student or have participated in a rotation at Mercer Health. 

Participants must apply online and submit transcript of their medical school courses/grades and a letter, on school letterhead, from the applicant’s medical school verifying that he/she is enrolled full time as a medical student at that institution. Online applications are being accepted now will be accepted until October 1, 2021.

Mercer Health’s medical staff looks forward to giving back to additional medical students as the scholarship program continues. “Across our country and right here in west central Ohio, rural hospitals play an essential and integral role in the healthcare system, providing significant contributions to the well-being of the communities we serve,” Dr. Stefanie Moeller, Mercer Health internal medicine provider, said. “Our goal is to give back to students, especially those who are interested in supporting our rural communities as a physician—and in other ways.”

For more information about Mercer Health’s Medical Student Scholarship, visit mercer-health.com/foundation or contact Deb Hemmelgarn, MED Foundation director, at dhemmelgarn@mercer-health.com or 419-678-5679.

Auditions set for musical comedy

Two local community theatres are collaborating to bring Motherhood, the Musical to Van Wert and Lima.   Van Wert Civic Theatre and Amil Tellers-Encore Theatre are leveraging their resources to bring this comedy to both locations.  This show shares the humorous and loving journey of Amy, a soon-to-be first-time mom; Barb, an overworked, underpaid, stressed-out mother of five; Brooke, a lawyer who works too much and barely sees her kids; and Tasha, a single mom struggling to balance work, family and a divorce. VWCT will present the musical on September 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, October 1, 2, and 3 while Encore performances are scheduled for October 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, and 17.  Director Jerry Zimmerman and Music Director Dee Fisher intend to use the same actresses for all 14 performances but will consider double casting to accommodate performance conflicts. The cast calls for four females. 

Auditions will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, August 1 at Encore Theatre located at 991 North Shore Dr, Lima and at 7 p.m. on Monday, August 2 at VWCT, 118 S Race Street, Van Wert.   Those auditioning should prepare a short song that demonstrates their range.  Be ready to share any conflicts with performances or rehearsal times. A detailed rehearsal schedule will be created once the show is cast.  Rehearsals will alternate between the two theatre locations.  

Questions can be directed to Zimmerman via text message at 419-296-5157 or by emailing admin@vwct.org. 

Lake Fest 5 k

Mercer Health Lake Festival 5K run registration is available on line at www.mercerhealth5kchallenge.com.  This chip-timed race is part of the Mercer Health 5 K Challenge.

The 5K begins at 8:00 A.M. July 24th at Lake Shore Park at the corner of Ash and Lakeshore Drive in Celina.  Registration begins at 6:45 A.M.  The certified out and back course will be set up along West Bank Road.

The deadline to pre-register is July 23 at $15.00 without a running shirt. Race day registration is available at $20.00.  All runners 14 and under run for free with a completed registration form.

Medals will be awarded to the top three male and female runners.  Medals will be awarded to first, second and third place in each age group with special awards to be given to the runner coming from the further distance, and for the youngest and oldest runners. Also $100.00 will be awarded to the male and female runners who set a new course record.

There will be water on the course, splits at 1 mile and at 2-mile marks.  Refreshments will be served at the finish.

Registration forms are available at the chamber office, 121 E. Logan St. Celina, OH. For more information, call the Celina Mercer Chamber at 419-586- 2219.

Race organizers thank the following additional sponsors: Mercer Health, Celina Lions, Westside Carryout,  MCerv, Chiefs, Aqua Tech Water, Celina Fire Dept, Celina Insurance, Best Western, Dynamic Federal Credit Union, State Farm Insurance-Brian Stephan, Dairy Queen, H&R Block, and Ohio-Indiana Roofing.

Buzzards Glory 5 K

The 27th annual Buzzard’s Glory 5K run/walk is at 8:30 a.m. August 7th 2021 in Coldwater.

Pre-Registration is available on line at www.cantstoprunningco.com  at $25 with shirt or $15 without a shirt. As in all Mercer Health Challenge races, 14 and under race for free with a completed registration form.

This chip-timed race begins and ends at Coldwater High School Cavalier Stadium with registration from 7am-8am at the stadium. All proceeds go to Coldwater Memorial Park & Coldwater Library.

This is the seventh and last race of Mercer Health 5K Challenge run and all awards for the Challenge will be presented after the race.  Results will be available online at www.mercrthealth5kchallenge.com & www.cantstoprunnihgco.com  Call Innergy Fitness at 419-763-1111 for more information.

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

Photo Caption: This fine art from wood was made by Russ Riggle, Newcornerstown, Ohio.

I attended the Old Fashioned Farmers’ Exhibit at Van Wert this month.  Alvin always participated in the antique tractor exhibits, as well as working with Doug at the Sawmill.  I enjoyed seeing our old friends at the Van Wert Show.  While there, I met the two artists, a father and son, who created toy copies of farm equipment as well as farm trucks.  What impressed me most about the toys made of wood, was the artists not only worked the wood grain into the art work, as well as the detailed image of farm equipment today.

When I saw this piece, I knew it would make a fine addition to our New Idea Farm Equipment Toy Exhibit at the Mercer County Historical Museum Sunday September 12.  Russ Riggle explained to me that they live four hours east of here.  They will be showing their artwork made of wood, at the Celina Lake Festival July 23-25.

I asked our New Idea Historic Preservation Committee Members to identify the piece of equipment.  Jerry Will, Ken Coffman, and Jim Weiler responded.  Jim’s  information was the most descriptive:   “The tractor appears to be a model of one with a cab but no specific brand or model comes to mind that it is patterned after.  The implement appears to be a corn/soybean planter with 4 planting row units (4 row). It does not show any "markers" which are arms with a cutting disc with which are in vertical position when in transport and then one hydraulically lowers to make a mark in the unplanted soil so the farmer after traveling across the field can turn around and follow the mark normally at the center of the tractor and follow it to make evenly spaced rows. The round horizontal tanks nearest the tractor on the toy implement would haul liquid corn starter fertilizer to be applied alongside the seed kernels .”

This year, our New Idea Historic Preservation Committee, (NIHP) will once again be hosting a New Idea Farm Equipment and Antique Tractor & Equipment exhibit at the north end of the Park at the Coldwater Community Picnic, Saturday & Sunday, August 7-8.

Last year’s Virus limited the public programs, for our book sales of our book,  “New Idea Company’s Hay Tools, 1931-1999.”  Therefore, this book “New Idea Company’s Hay Tools, 1931-1999,” will be available on August 7-8, at the Coldwater Picnic at the Park.

We also need help with this exhibit! 

WANTED FOR EXHIBIT ON SATURDAY & SUNDAY, August 7 – 8 AT COLDWATER’S COMMUNITY PARK.  NEW IDEA FARM EQUIPMENT and  ANTIQUE TRACTORS & FARM EQUIPMENT. 

For information, call me at my cell phone number:  419-852-0092.

[Mercer County Historical Society President Joyce Alig may be contacted at 3054 Burk-St. Henry Road, Saint Henry, OH 45883, or histalig@bright.net or 419-852-0092.]  NOTE THE NEW PHONE NUMBER!

Roadside Hazards

The Mercer County Engineer’s Office has been, is and is continuing to determine and act upon ways to improve the safety of our rural local roadways in Mercer County.  One of the aspects of roadway safety we have tried to improve upon is the roadside clear zones.  The roadside clear zones can be generally defined as the total roadside area starting at the edge of the traveled way, available for safe use by errant vehicles.  Simply stated, it is an unobstructed, relatively flat area beyond the edge of the traveled way (pavement) that allows a driver to stop safely or regain control of a vehicle that leaves the pavement surface.

In virtually all cases, the legal road right-of-way extends well past the paved section of the roadway.  The Mercer County Engineer has right-of-way maps which show the existing width of the legal road right-of-way.  These widths of right-of-way vary on the various rural local roads.  Anything placed within the road right-of-way by a property owner is subject to removal by our crews.  The most common examples of such items are trees, bushes, landscaping, decorative rocks, fences, buildings, etc.  For the safety and usability of our rural local roads, we ask property owners to keep items like this outside of the road right-of-way and appreciate the public’s support in making our roads better and safer for all who use them and all who adjoin them.

Landowners having questions about specific right-of-way widths of county and township roadways should contact the Mercer County Engineer’s Office 419-586-7759.

UPDATES TO FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH - OPERATION BACK TO SCHOOL

First United Methodist Church, located at 113 W. Central Avenue in Van Wert, in partnership with many Van Wert businesses and churches, has set the date of Sunday, August 1st for their 6 th Annual Operation Back to School event.  This FREE event provides backpacks, school supplies, and hygiene items to Van Wert County families in need.  Students in pre-school through 8th grade may pre-register online at www.vanwertfirst.net by following the “Operation Back to School” student registration link or stop by the church office to fill out a registration form.  Pre-registration is highly encouraged and will close July 21st. There will be no onsite registration.

The event will be held at Fountain Park from 3 pm - 5 pm, with games and food for the entire family.  We ask that families do not arrive on site prior to 2:45 as we will be organizing the park and surrounding areas to the park for the event. Plan to join us for the afternoon. 

The high school event is being planned for a later date.

Anyone wishing to volunteer at the event, to donate to help the project or for more information please call Teresa at First Church 419-238-0631 ext 307. You can also check out our website at www.vanwertfirst.net and look through the ‘Operation Back to School’ and ‘eGiving’ links. VENMO has also been added to our ability to accept donations using: @FirstUnited-Methodist.

VWCF RECOGNIZES NEW ENDOWMENT FUND

Seth Baker, CEO of The Van Wert County Foundation, is pleased to announce a new designated endowment fund, The Tim A. Rolsten & Patricia A. Rolsten Memorial Fund, that will support purpose in our community. 

Tim and Pat were married on July 31, 1981. Together they shared many adventures and beautiful memories while raising a blended family. Pat retired as an LPN. In addition to nursing, Pat helped Tim work the family farm. Tim used his master's of business degree to operate a successful farm and seed corn business. Tim served many years as a Pleasant Township Trustee. Both were longtime members of Trinity United Methodist Church and former members of the Elks Lodge 1197. They enjoyed attending Tincaps baseball games, Crestview basketball games, watching NASCAR, and vacationing in Branson, Missouri. 

Following Mr. & Mrs. Rolsten’s charitable wishes, one-third of the fund is gifted to Trinity United Methodist Church for $194,447 for the organization’s general purposes. The remaining two-thirds create The Tim A. Rolsten & Patricia A. Rolsten Memorial Fund in support of the Van Wert County, Ohio Sheriff Department, and the Fire Department of Ohio City, Ohio, in each governmental organization’s public safety duties. 

The Van Wert County Foundation is a nonprofit community organization serving Van Wert County and surrounding areas by inspiring philanthropy and mobilizing resources to create a well-resourced and thriving quality of life for our community.

More information is available at www.vanwertcountyfoundation.org.

Attached - picture of Mr. & Mrs. Rolsten

Pictured: (Left to Right)

Adam Clark, Chief Deputy Van Wert County Sheriff Department

Thiason Leaser, Financial Advisor, Edward Jones

Kevin McGough, Son of Patricia Rolsten

Pastor David To, Trinity United Methodist Church

Seth Baker, CEO of The Van Wert County Foundation

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Reverend Doug Meyer to the pulpit on Sunday, July 18, 2021. He called the children forward for the Children’s Message. He had been baking again. The cookies were in the shape of a hand with a heart in the center. The cookies stood for two lessons: God holds us in his hand and they are also helping hands. We are loved by God and we need to then go out and love others.  

Doug continued with the sermon which was based on the Gospel scripture of Mark 6:30-34. Mark explains that Jesus had great compassion for the people who kept following him. Compassion drives us outside ourselves and we reach out to others. The author Flannery O’Connor wrote that compassion makes us aware of the suffering of others. Pastor Doug said we are in the age of me-ism – self indulgence. A healthy corrective to me-ism is compassion like Jesus had for the tired and the hungry. He looked in their eyes and saw sheep without a shepherd. Their faces showed spiritual hunger, and he taught them, cared for them and healed them just as a shepherd rubs healing oil on the injuries of his flock of sheep every night. That kind of compassion can do miraculous things.

Reverend Doug Meyer is the retired minister from St. John’s Lutheran Church in Celina serving over 50 years in the ministry of God. 

 
July 12-16, 2021
 

Click on smaller thumbnail pictures to enlarge.

Terry Gehm, longtime barber in Rockford, sold his building recently to the FOE - 1292 (Eagles), which is adjacent to Terry's Trim.
The building was razed by local Eagles' members and village employees in early June 2021.

Van Wert Health to Kick Off ‘Know Your Numbers’ Campaign in July 2021

Van Wert, OH - Getting your numbers checked regularly and knowing what they mean is a great step towards better health. During the entire month of July 2021, Van Wert Health is offering special pricing for selected preventative lab tests.  Anyone in the northwest Ohio and northeast Indiana region is welcome to attend this promotion, guests do not have to be a patient of Van Wert Health in order to participate.

By learning about what numbers and ranges you should be in and how you compare against “healthy” numbers, you can take actions towards maintaining or leading a healthy life. Some of the more well-known chronic conditions like heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and diabetes can be prevented by keeping your numbers in healthy ranges.

One of the tests offered during the “Know Your Numbers” month promotion is the Complete Blood Count (CBC), which is a blood test used to evaluate your overall health and detect a wide range of disorders, including anemia, infection and leukemia. Several components and features of your blood are measured including: red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. Abnormal increases or decreases in cell counts as revealed in a CBC may indicate that you have an underlying medical condition that calls for further evaluation.

Other tests offered during Know Your Numbers month include:

·       Comprehensive Metabolic Profile ($20)

·       Lipid Profile ($20)

·       Complete Blood Count ($20)

·       Hemoglobin A1c ($25)

·       Thyroid Stimulating Hormone ($25)

·       Prostate Specific Antigen ($30)

Visitors are invited to walk-in any time during the month of July.  Appointments are not needed.  Participating lab locations include the Van Wert Health Center (140 Fox Road, Suite 106), Van Wert Health – Hospital (1250 S. Washington Street), Van Wert Health – North (214 Towne Center Blvd.), all located in Van Wert, Ohio.

More information is available online at vanwertheatlh.org, including a complete listing of the outpatient lab hours as each facility. Patients with additional questions may reach a staff member via email at vanwerthealth.org or by calling 419-238-8623.

Van Wert Health Celebrates 100th Case on the da Vinci Xi Surgical System

Van Wert Health is proud to announce that its physicians and surgical team have completed the 100th robotic-assisted surgery case on the da Vinci Xi Surgical System.  The hospital began performing robotic-assisted surgeries in December 2020 and celebrated the milestone on June 22. 

“Residents in Van Wert and surrounding communities have access to this cutting-edge technology right in their backyard,” said Jim Pope, President and CEO at Van Wert Health. “We are proud to offer our patients advanced surgical options, keeping them close to home for care and allowing them to get back to their everyday lives as quickly as possible.”

Van Wert Health utilizes the da Vinci XI Surgical System, which is the latest in robotic surgical technologies.  With less patient discomfort and improved results, minimally-invasive surgery using robotic systems has become an increasingly popular option over traditional open surgery and laparoscopic surgery.  Patient benefits of robotic-assisted surgery include a shorter hospitalization period, quicker healing and return to normal activity, reduced blood loss, and reduced post-procedure pain. For the surgeon using the robot, advantages include an enhanced and magnified view of inside the patient’s body, instruments that bend and rotate farther than human hands, and overall enhanced precision and control. The surgeon is 100-percent in control of the robotic-assisted system.

“I have seen such a positive effect since beginning to utilize robotic assisted surgery,” said Thomas Conte, MD, General Surgeon.  “It’s exciting to be part of the growing robotics program at Van Wert Health.”  The Robotic Surgery Program at Van Wert Health was made possible by a generous gift from Bruce & Julie Kennedy.

Come Hear Pastor Doug Meyer at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Doug Meyer back to the pulpit on Sunday, July 18, 2021. His message entitled “Compassion” is based on the Gospel Lesson Mark 6:30-34 - for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

Pastor Doug will also be having Children’s Time during the service.

Please call Becky Shope 419-363-2227 for any questions regarding the worship services.

Visit the St. Paul’s UCC – Rockford Facebook Page for information as well.

First Annual Rally 4 Recovery Event in Van Wert

FOA providing resources to bring awareness to addiction recovery Van Wert, Ohio- According to mortality reports from the Ohio Department of Health, drug overdoses killed more Ohioans in 2020 than in at least 14 years. The COVID-19 Pandemic led to a spike in substance abuse, and now more than ever, local communities should be aware of recovery resources and services.

Families of Addicts Van Wert will present its first-ever Rally 4 Recovery, taking place at Fountain Park this Sunday - July 18, 2021, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The event will feature emcee Scotty Mays, speaker Steve Makofka, keynote speaker Paul Fitzpatrick, and four opportunities for Narcan Education at 1:30 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm, and 4;30 pm. In addition, FOA can introduce families from Northwest Ohio and Northeast Indiana to wrap-around support services available to those recovering from addiction. Emcee, Scotty Mays, is an Ohio comedian and is in long-term recovery, so this event is extra special for him to participate in. The event will feature music by local favorite Colt & Crew. Family and Recovery Life Coach Steve Makofka is one of the event's speakers. Steve is the owner of Family Dynamics LLC in Dayton and brings a wealth of knowledge in developing creative training programs to help individuals and groups overcoming addiction. Keynote Speaker, Paul Fitzpatrick, is Executive Director of "Clevelawn." Fitzpatrick is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and a graduate of Cleveland State University's Levine School of Urban Affairs. He is an accomplished public and motivational speaker, and was a Senior Doby Fellow for the Cleveland PeaceMakers Alliance. He spent time in prison and is a recovering addict with over 22 years in recovery. His education and experiences have prepared him to work with those who have also had hardships in their lives. You won't want to miss hearing Paul's story. It is very powerful. Resource booths available—food and fun activities for the whole family. Join us as we celebrate recovery!

At this time, here is who has committed to being an educational resource at our event: Van Wert Health – Van Wert Tri-County ADAMHS – Van Wert Ridgeview Hospital – Van Wert United Way of Van Wert – Van Wert Family Dynamics – Dayton The Mom of an Addict – Fort Wayne Thrive Peer Support – Cleveland West Ohio Food Bank – Lima Northeastern Center – Auburn Guiding Light Ministries, Lima Brightview – Lima Angel Intervention – Van Wert Haven of Hope – Van Wert Fort Wayne Recovery – Fort Wayne Westwood Behavioral – Van Wert Community Medical Services – Lima Avenues Recovery – Fort Wayne Turn Right And Go Straight – Van Wert Lighthouse Behavioral Health Services – Lima Brianna’s Hope – Celina YWCA of Van Wert – Van Wert PASS (Prevention Awareness Support Services - Lima Haven Behavioral Hospital – Dayton New Vision at Wilson Health – Sidney Thank you to our sponsors and donors - United Way of Van Wert County, Van Wert Health, Tri-County ADAMHS, The Marketing Junkie, Brightview in Lima, and Rural King.

Families of Addicts is headquartered in Dayton, OH, and has multiple sites in the Miami Valley, including Van Wert. FOA rebuilds families and transforms lives through the 3 E's; Educate, Empower and Embrace. Through weekly meetings in Van Wert County, navigation, one-on-one phone support, and outreach opportunities, FOA is a sought-after and respected resource. The non-profit is unique because it supports the entire family and advocates for individuals to find their face and voice, which is key to eliminating the stigma associated with addiction. Follow FOA Families of Addicts-Van Wert on Facebook for additional details about the Rally 4 Recovery event and services available to local communities year-round. For more information about this event and FOA, call (419) 203-0200 and ask for Shane Manson. 

Lambert Days Starts July 16, 2021

The weekend will kick off with the crowning of the 2021 Lambert Days Queen at 4:30 Friday. This year's Queen is Caylin Cowan the daughter of Renee and John Cowan. Caylin is a Junior at Van Wert High School and is involved in both cheer and softball. Immediately following the crowning, Ohio City American Legion Post #346 will conduct the flag raising ceremony. The National Anthem will be sung by Ohio City UMC Pastor Gary Ginter. The car show registration begins at 5:00, along with inflatables for the kids, and pinball (inside the Community Building). Friday the Park Board is serving a steak dinner in the Community Building starting at 4:00. There will be food available in the Building throughout the weekend. Texas hold ‘em will start at 7:00, along with the car show judging. The “Big Ginja Band” will perform under the tent from 8:30 to 11:30. Fireworks will begin at 10:15 (rain date: Saturday night).

Saturday kicks off with a co-ed volleyball tournament at 9:00. Food will be available daily inside the Community Building starting at 11:00. Kids’ activities will start at noon. The Community Building will provide a “hog roast” dinner starting at 4:00 and music under the tent will be provided by Jeff Uterbrink. Bingo will begin at 5:00 and the Lambert Days 2nd annual “Pinball Classic” tournament will start at 7:00. Jaime Delgado will finish out the evening with music and karaoke. 

Sunday’s chicken dinner will be served at 11:00 with music provided by the band “Triad”. Kids’ activities will start at noon. The 2021 Lambert Days Parade will line-up at 1:45 and will begin at 3:00. This year’s Grand Marshals are Ron and Jean Krugh. 

There will also be vendors located all weekend at Firemans Park (on St. Rt 118), along with garage sales throughout the Village and surrounding area.  For more information visit www.lambertdays.com or follow us on our facebook page. 

 
July 10-11, 2021
 

27^th Annual Car Show and Cruise-In Rescheduled in Rockford

The 27th annual Rockford Car Show and Cruise-In has been rescheduled for Saturday, August 28th, 2021. The event was canceled during Rockford Community Days in June because of weather. 

On August 28ththe Car Show registration will begin at 4 pm at the corner of West Market and Franklin Streets. Judging will begin at 6:30. The Awards ceremony will begin at 8:45 pm.   For additional information, contact Lion Dennis Hecht, project chair @ 419-852-9818.  

The Rockford area band BLIND DATE will provide LIVE music for a ‘Sock Hop or Street Dancing’ beginning at 6:30pm.  Food and drinks will also be available.  Bring your own lawn chair.

Under the direction of project chair LeeAnn Frank, The Rockford Lions have rescheduled their Quarter Auction for Sunday, September 12, 2021. Doors will open at 12:30 pm. The auction will begin at 1:00 pm.  Additional details will be released as they are finalized.  The first Lions Club Quarter Auction was held in 2019.  The 2020 event was cancelled due to COVID health concerns. 

At the Lions Club meeting on July 5th Rockford Lions gave monetary support for a companion service dog specifically trained to assist an autistic youth in the Rockford community.

Proceeds from Rockford Lions Club projects like the Quarter Auction in September, the 27th Annual Rockford Car Show and Cruise-In August 28th, 2021, and the Chicken Dinner project on October 16th, 2021 fund scholarships and help fulfill community needs and requests.

Parkway School Board Agenda for a Regular Meeting on July 12, 2021 at 6:30
by Sally Cox

Stateline Writer’s Club to Hold Picnic
The Stateline Writers Club of Auglaize and Mercer counties will meeting Saturday, July 17 at 10 a.m. in Pullman Bay Park, Celina. This will be the club's annual carry-in picnic meeting.

PERI of Mercer County to Meet
Mercer County PERI Chapter #13 will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, July 13th at the Hopewell Grange Hall on the Mercer County Fairgrounds.  The meeting will start at 10:00 AM with doughnuts, juice, and coffee available beginning at 9:30 AM.

Guest speaker will be Susan Manchester, State Representative for Ohio's 84th District.  Sharon Drerup, PERI District #2 Representative, will also be present.

Reverend Doug Meyer leads worship service at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ and will return on Sunday July 18, 2021

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Reverend Doug Meyer to the pulpit on Sunday, July 4, 2021. He began with reflecting on the 245^th birthday of our nation with our freedom to worship, go to school, travel and celebrate, and most importantly to celebrate the freedom Jesus gave us through his death on the Cross. He came to set us free to love and serve others.

Doug continued with the Children’s Message. He showed a small cross that his friend Wayne Gerber of Jackson Center made. Wayne has made and given 28,000 of these away over the years. Pastor Doug continued with the children about the freedom in our country (and gave each of them a small USA flag) and the freedom of the cross of Jesus (and gave the children two homemade cookies in the shape of a cross and a heart.  His message, titled, “The Tragedy of Unbelief”) was based on the Gospel scripture of Mark 6:1-9. Mark explains that Jesus had been teaching all over, and people were flocking to him to hear his message. He taught about the Kingdom of God in parables. He performed miracles, healing the sick, raising the dead and calming storms. Jesus returned to his hometown of Nazareth and taught in the synagogue. Instead of respect and honor, though, Pastor Doug said he was met with contempt and jealousy from the townspeople with whom he had grown up. They took offense. Jesus explained that prophets are not without honor except in their home town. The scripture reads: He could not do much and was amazed at their unbelief. One can’t give the message to people who do not want it.  Put your trust in Jesus today – where there is faith, mighty works will be done.

Reverend Doug Meyer will be back in the pulpit on Sunday, July 18, 2021. He is the retired minister from St. John’s Lutheran Church in Celina serving over 50 years in the ministry of God. 

 
July 7-9, 2021
 

Come Hear Pastor Steve Howell at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ
St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Steve Howell back to the pulpit on Sunday, July 11, 2021. His message entitled “Who Controls Your Schedule?” is based on the Gospel Lesson John 7:1-13 - for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

Please call Becky Shope 419-363-2227 for any questions regarding the worship services.

Pastor Doug Meyer returns on Sunday, July 18, 2021.

Visit the St. Paul’s UCC – Rockford Facebook Page for information as well.

Pastor Steve Howell leads worship service at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Pastor Steve Howell to the pulpit on Sunday, June 27, 2021.

His message entitled “When a Little Becomes A Lot” is based on the Gospel Lesson John 6:1-15”.  Jesus performed a miracle at the Sea of Galilee. And, according to Pastor Steve, there are three parts to the event. First there was the miracle. Jesus’ compassion for the estimated 15,000 people who had followed Jesus and wanted to hear him teach and watch him perform miracles. He realized their hunger, and asked Philip how to feed them even though Jesus could perform the miracle of providing food. Philip said that was going to be impossible. He had a boy with him who offered his lunch of 2 fish and 5 barley loaves. Jesus said give your life to me and I will give it back. He told Philip to trust him. Jesus took the food and thanked God and blessed it. They began passing the boy’s lunch in the basket. The people took all they wanted and passed the basket along. When everyone had their fill, they collected the leftovers and there were 12 baskets full. Jesus knew they needed to eat before they could listen. The people responded, in awe, by saying this must be the prophet. He responded by telling them he is the bread of life. Believe and have eternal life.  Believe more than just an existence – you must believe in your heart, not just your head.

Following the sermon Becky Shope and Pastor Steve served Holy Communion.

Pastor Steve Howell is a retired minister from Grace Missionary Church.

Pastor Steve will be back in the pulpit on Sunday, July 11, 2021 delivering the message entitled “Who Controls Your Schedule” which is based on the Gospel Lesson John 7:1-13 - for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

Pastor Doug Meyer will be back in the pulpit on Sunday, July 18, 2021.

Please call Becky Shope 419-363-2227 for any questions regarding the worship services.

Visit the St. Paul’s UCC – Rockford Facebook Page for information as well.

Mercer County Back-To-School Supply Drive: Our Home Family Resource Center  

Starting the school year with the necessary school supplies supports student learning and builds self-confidence. Unfortunately, it can be a struggle for financially strapped families to set aside enough funds to purchase all the supplies their children need in time for the start of school. In response to this, Our Home Family Resource Center has organized a Back-To-School Supply Project for children in Mercer County. Last year, despite COVID restrictions, this project provided school supplies for over 200 children in Celina, Parkway, Coldwater, Ft. Recovery, St. Henry, and Mercer County Head Start.

This effort brings individuals, churches, and businesses from across the county together to provide new book bags stocked with essential school supplies for low-income students so that they can join their peers in returning to school with excitement and confidence.

Folks who would like to support the 2021 Back-To-School Supply Project are encouraged to donate any of the following: book bags (new), solid color pocket folders, 5-tab dividers, tissues, glue bottles, classic Crayola markers, colored pencils, 24 count crayons, zipper pencil pouches, wide rule filler paper, large pink erasers, red ink pens, 5” and 7” pointed scissors, wide black dry erase markers, highlighters, and ear buds. Monetary donations are also accepted, and will be used to purchase items necessary to meet the needs of applicants.

Donations will be accepted through August 12th and may be dropped off at Our Home during regular business hours Monday through Thursday. For those who prefer to shop online, there is an Amazon Wishlist https://a.co/g9zhUwf. Online purchases can be shipped directly to Our Home at 117 W Fayette St, Celina OH 45822. Volunteers will sort and pack the donations for pick-up by families at Celina First Church of God on August 17th and 18th. 

Parents/guardians of students who would like assistance with school supplies can register online at www.ourhomefrc.com/schoolsupplies through Thursday, August 5th. If there are questions, or issues submitting applications, call 419-586-4663 and dial 2 for Direct Services.

Our Home Family Resource Center is a nonprofit, 501c3 organization located at 117 W. Fayette Street in Celina that serves the Mercer County community.  For more detailed information about the programs, projects, and services provided by Our Home visit www.ourhomefrc.com or call 419-586-4663.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19
Situation Update – July 7, 2021

By Kristy Fryman

CELINA- As of July 7, 2021, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 4,133 confirmed cases, 786 probable cases, 4,002 recovered cases, 0 hospitalizations, 86 COVID-19 deaths, and 19 probable deaths of COVID-19. In addition, there have been 45 confirmed cases who have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19. Today, there is one known active case of COVID-19 in Mercer County.

In response to public interest, the MCHD is now reporting vaccine breakthrough infections. A vaccine breakthrough infection is defined as detecting SARS-CoV-2 RNA or antigen in a respiratory specimen collected from a person 14 days or more after receiving all recommended doses of an FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccine. As of today, the MCHD reports four confirmed cases and two probable cases of vaccine breakthrough infections.

The MCHD offers the COVID-19 vaccine every Friday at the MCHD office. Please call 419-586-3251 extension 1462 to ask questions or schedule an appointment.

 
July 1-6, 2021
 

Parkway High School’s Remi Fokine Crowned Queen Jubilee, XLVI (46)
Peony Festival 2021

By Sheila Baltzell-Linn, www.parkwayindependent.com
June 30, 2021

Photography courtesy of Bob Barnes of Barnes Photography, Van Wert, OH
barnesrl006@gmail.com Thank you, Bob! 

On Saturday, June 5, 2021, Parkway graduate Remi Fokine was crowned the Queen Jubilee, XLVI (46) at the Van Wert Peony Festival, as her family and friends looked on.  Remi was so surprised when they announced her name, and things moved quickly as her flower girl, Payton Walley,  handed her a bouquet of peonies and the sash was added over her lovely green evening gown.  2020 Queen Jubilee XLV Jill Gemmer, who had just given her farewell speech came forward and placed the tiara crown, donated by Laudick’s Jewelry, on Remi. It is the first scholarship pageant she has ever entered, and she loved the experience. She walked away with the grand scholarship of $1200 for college.

Remi’s college plans include softball at Malone University in Canton, OH, an NCAA-D2 School starting this Fall. From this Christian College of 1200 students, she received a softball scholarship and intends to major in pre-med (to become a trauma surgeon) and studying Opera Music with a faculty member who is in the Cleveland Opera and singing with Malone's Chorale. She will continuing her American Sign Language studies which she pursued as post-secondary work as a Junior and Senior at Parkway at Wright State University – Lake Campus with Jodi Pierstorff. Her track coach was Sawyer Weitzel. Many family members and friends were influential in helping her look ahead to some of these college and career decisions.

When Remi decided to try out for the Peony Scholarship Pageant she was looking to put some challenging activities into a clamped-down COVID school year. Someone told her, if she wanted more out of her Senior year, she should not be hesitant, seek out discomfort, and explore new adventures and hobbies. As she was looking at the Counselor’s Board for scholarships, she saw the one for the Peony Pageant and applied in the Fall of 2020. Although she had never been in a pageant before, she interviewed very well. She was soon chosen as the Parkway candidate, and began her rehearsals with the other 8 candidates. They met once at the Convoy Opera Hall for a Meet the Candidates Night. Dance rehearsals for the pageant, were held at Kim Hohman's Danceworks.

Remi explained, it was a time of uncertainty. COVID restrictions caused cancellations and delays all the way from practices to the actual event itself and even the very venue where the show was to take place. Convoy Opera Hall was the original pageant venue. Remi said it was nerve-racking for everyone involved. The contestants became such good friends, and all they wanted to do was hold the pageant and compete.  The location was changed several times but the Goedde Building, the former high school in Van Wert, was finally selected. The date was also a moving target, but the show finally went on, on Saturday June 5, 2021 as the Peony Festival began in Van Wert, shortly after Governor Mike DeWine lifted all restrictions.

Remi enjoyed every aspect of the pageant including the judging of: General Appearance; Personality; Introduction and Dance Routine (by all the contestants); Talent (Remi sang What I did for Love accompanied by her voice teacher and coach David VanTilburg); Talent Dress; and her Impromptu OnStage Question – Remi’s was, “How would you encourage other girls to apply for the Peony Queen Jubilee Crown?” Her essay-platform was entitled within a “Matter of Minutes – Food and other Allergies and an Inclusive Society”. Remi said of the whole experience, "It was fun and I loved it. We were girls who became friends right from the start and encouraged each other. It was a bonding experience of sisterhood on an 8 month journey to the final show."

Queen Remi has a full slate of Van Wert County Community activities during the coming year which will fulfill her term as Queen Jubilee, XLVI (46). There will be parades, meetings and appearances. She has been encouraged to compete in some other pageants that would qualify her for the Miss Ohio Program in Mansfield, OH.  She has not decided on a direction yet concerning another pageant.

Eight other young ladies from area schools, who competed for Queen Jubilee, XLVI (46) include:

Lillian Hempfling of Delphos St. John – First Runner-up and winner of the
$ 800 Scholarship, $ 100 Most photogenic scholarship.
Her parents: Chuck and Susan Hempfling.

Dyann Carey of Lincolnview – Second Runner-up and winner of a $500
scholarship. Her parents: Leigh and Randall Carey.

Alexa Chung of Delphos Jefferson -  She was awarded $250 - Miss Congeniality and $250 - Community Involvement scholarships. Her parent is Angela Chung.

Bailey Gregory of Crestview was awarded the $400 Talent Winner Her Talent was the presentation of a song in American Sign Language. Her parents are Tammy and Mark Gregory.

Jamie Trego of Van Wert High School – She was awarded the $100 People’s Choice Award. Her parents are Jane Trego and Eugene Trego.

Other pageant contestants were: Megan Dearth of Paulding - parents
Eric and Melissa Dearth; Jayda Stutz of Vantage Vocational School, parent -  Lisa Menke; and Emma Crosby of Wayne Trace - parents Chad and Angela Crosby.

Remi with Flower girl Payton Walley

In high school, Remi was active in softball with the Grand Lake Vipers club team. She was their catcher and shortstop. On the Parkway Panther Track team she pole vaulted and ran the 100 and 200 meter with Sawyer Weitzel as her coach. A National Honor Society member, she maintained excellent grades, was a percussionist in the Parkway Band, sang in the Parkway Choir, and was part of the Cheerleading Squad for Football and Basketball. She is a Girl Scout working on her Gold Award. Her recently approved project is a Biblical Garden at Zion Lutheran Church in Chattanooga and will include biblical plants, stepping stones, and explanations. Remi belongs to this church and is a member of the Chatta-John Youth Group.

Talent Presentation

Cheering her on at the pageant were Remi’s parents Tim and Megan (Kimmel) Fokine; grandparents J.R. and Connie Brigner; unable to attend were grandparents Susan Grascia and John Fokine. Deceased  is grandfather Tony Grascia and  local-great grandparents including: Edwin and Alice Ruth Kimmel and Vernon and Donna Caffee.

Remi’s brothers are: Lance, Reese, Skyler and Colin.

Remi wanted to thank Laudick Jewelry for her crown and all jewelry for all contestants for the pageant, and help with her green evening gown and other clothing. She also wanted to thank Brenda Barker for doing her hair. Remi did her own make-up.

When asked how this crowning is going to shape her life, Remi replied that it will help her to become a community leader and use her title to advocate for the communities of Van Wert County and Northern Mercer County.

Looking back, in 2008, another Parkway girl became the Peony Festival Queen Jubilee, Hannah Ford, formerly of Rockford.

Congratulations Remi Fokine!

Rockford, Formerly Shanes Crossing/Shanesville Celebrates Bicentennial one year late due to Coronvirus

By Sheila Baltzell-Linn
July 5, 2021 www.parkwayindependent.com
Photos courtesy of Patrick Agler

The Village of Rockford recently celebrated the Bicentennial (200th anniversary)

of their town which was founded in 1820 by frontiersman Anthony Shane. It was founded as Shanesville/Shanes Crossing, because of the best crossing spot on the St. Marys River, which was the mode of travel in the day.

Shane was half Native American and half French, and with his skills from those cultures, he became an interpreter and a scout for the government of the day. He was rewarded with land in and around what is now Rockford in Northern Mercer County. His first land grant was a 640-acre reserve on the north side of the St. Marys River where he lived in a double log cabin.

The Rockford Village Council back in the 1980’s located what they believed to be to the double log cabin of Anthony and his wife, Lamateshe, had the building dated by an historian, and dismantled and moved it to Shanes Park in Rockford where it stands today.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) in 2020 caused a full year’s delay in the Bicentennial Celebration  in Rockford until June 17-18-19, 2021, when, during the recent Rockford Community Days, they celebrated.

Activities included a display of the Ohio MIA/POW Wall by the Chained Eagles; Flag Raising ad National Anthem and then a Proclamation by Mayor Amy Joseph; Arts Festival; Musical Antiquarian Matthew Keeler; Harrison Frech, local historian spoke on his new book about Anthony Shane; a trivia night was held at the Second Crossing Brewery; the Rockford Lions Club sponsored a Classic Car Show; Tractor Show; carnival rides fun for the children; Beer Tent; Van Wert Alumni Band directed by Dick Sherrick; music and fireworks in the park; tractor show; sand volleyball tournament; Kid’s Games and Races; Splash Pad party; Line Dancing; with the finale of the 2021 Grand Parade featuring over 50 entries.

Even though some rainy weather cancelled the old fashioned baseball and softball games on Saturday, there were many community members and out-of-town guests on hand to wish Rockford a Happy Birthday!

Thank you to Pat Agler for sharing these awesome pictures of the Rockford Bicentennial.

Click on smaller thumbnail pictures below to enlarge.

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

Photo Caption:  Mrs. Knappenberger's oil rich land was identified on this Survey Map of the Mercer County Reservoir, in Auglaize County, between 1889 and 1910.

Who was Susan Knappenberger?  She was one of the wealthiest female oil well land owners on the Reservoir by 1910. 

In June 1886, Celina’s first oil well was drilled.  The June 24, 1886 “Mercer County Standard” described the day in detail.   Not only Celina Citizens, but also other Mercer Countians began drilling for oil and/or gas, that summer.  (By that time oil well men from Pennsylvania were in this area, leasing land for their own companies.  The PA oil well men advised the land owners around the lake, to lease land from the State of Ohio, for the purpose of agriculture. . . and not for drilling oil wells.)  Those PA oil men saved the local land owners a bundle in 1892, with their advice.

The water level of the Reservoir was low, and land owners around the lake began drilling for oil in the sandy shore, and to say the least, “They hit it rich!”  That winter, February 24, 1887, the Mercer County Standard announced, “The Reservoir is higher than it has been since 1876.”  The result was that the oil well platforms, along the shore, were inundated with the flood water.  That was the beginning of the story of Grand Lake having “Off Shore Oil Wells.”  (Contrary to local lore, that Grand Lake was the “First Off Shore Oil Wells in the World,” the truth was that The Reservoir had the “First Off Shore Oil wells in Ohio.”

As you know, the Reservoir was part of the State-owned land under to the Ohio Canal Commission, as the Reservoir was a feeder to the Miami & Erie Canal.  Never let it be said that our Ohio Government would miss a good chance to increase its revenue.  The Ohio Canal Commission ordered the land around the reservoir and on the reservoir, to be surveyed in 1889.  As of 1892, the Ohio Canal Commission held “court” at the Fountain Hotel, St. Marys, Ohio, beginning March 17, 1892.  The Canal Commission tried to prove that the land owners should pay the Commission for drilling wells on their land.  The local land owners could prove that they had leased the land for agriculture, and the Ohio Canal Commission lost their case.  As I stated, the PA oil men’s advice saved the local land owners from paying the Canal Commission.

What did this story have to do with Mrs. Susan Knoppenberger being a wealthy property owner of oil wells?  The June 19, 1890, “The Observer,” newspaper told the earlier story.  “A Mr. Knoppenberger owns 80 acres of land south west of St. Marys, for which he paid $600.00.  A 500 barrel oil well suddenly raised the value of his possessions to $10,000.00.”  Before two decades had passed, the 1910 Survey of the Reservoir showed that Mrs. Knoppenberger owned that land, which was rich in oil wells.  One would have to go to the Auglaize County Courthouse, to determine the facts of the land ownership being transferred to Mrs. Knoppenberger.  As for the private story between Mr. and Mrs. Knoppenberger and the exchange of land ownership. . . that is none of my business.  However, it does make a good story about women becoming land owners of oil rich property, over a century ago.

This history of the Off-Shore Oil Wells is included in the latest book, “Oil & Gas Boom, Mercer County and Midwest, Ohio.”  You can check the book at the local libraries.  The Mercer County Historical Society was unable to open the Museum to large crowds last year, so we still have copies of the book for sale.

[Mercer County Historical Society President Joyce Alig may be contacted at 3054 Burk-St. Henry Road, Saint Henry, OH 45883, or histalig@bright.net or 419-852-0092.]  NOTE THE NEW PHONE NUMBER!

 
June 26-30, 2021
 

Shane’s Crossing 5K Run

The 2021 Mercer Health 5k season continues with the Shane’s Crossing 5k Run/Walk on Saturday, July 10th 2021 beginning at 8:30am.

This road race starts and ends at Shane’s Park located at 705 W. Front Street, Rockford, OH. Race day offers a $20 registration fee and opens at 7:30am. Pre-registration and race results are available at www.Mercerhealth5kchallenge.com.

Shane’s Crossing is part of the Mercer Health 5k Challenge where all participants 14 and younger race for free with a completed registration form. There will also be a ½ mile fun run for kids 12 & under beginning at 8am. All proceeds benefit the Parkway Athletic Boosters.

For more information please call 419-953-5001

Taste of Celina Coming July 9th

The Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce is inviting you to downtown Celina on Friday, July 9th from 5p-10p for the block party of the summer. 

Taste of Celina Block Party and Car Show will take place in downtown Celina and will offer a night of fun with friends and family. 

Tasty samplings will be offered from ten local restaurants including C-Town Wings, Bella’s, Speakeasy, Celina Manor Cafe, Fritz’ BBQ, Celina Wine Store, Friendly’s IGA, Brew Nation, and newcomers, Sidecar Martini’s On Main, and The Anchor.

You will also enjoy the sounds of local musician Jason Grieshop, and feel free to head to the South end of Main Street to enjoy the car show.

Pre-sale food tickets are available for purchase at the Chamber office for $1 each.  They will offer a free ticket for every twenty purchased (presale only).  Tickets are also available at the event. The Celina Mercer Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit organization promoting the economic growth of the businesses they serve.  They are happy to provide such a great community event while promoting the great local eateries in the Celina area.

The Chamber would like to express their gratitude to the following businesses for Master Chef sponsorship towards this event, Dynamic Federal Credit Union, Mercer Health, Citizens Commercial Bank, Park National Bank, Celina VFW, Reynolds & Reynolds, Reliable Tent Rental, Mercer Savings Bank, and Wabash Telephone.  Top Chef sponsors include ArmCorp, Peoples Bank, CAPT, Celina Tent, and Leugers Insurance.

Reverend Doug Meyer to lead worship service at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ on Sunday July 4, 2021

Reverend Doug Meyer will be back in the pulpit on Sunday, July 4, 2021. His sermon title is: The Tragedy of Unbelief based on the Gospel Lesson Mark 6:1-9 for those of you who like to follow the scriptures. He will also be doing a Children’s Message.  He is the retired minister from St. John’s Lutheran Church in Celina serving over 50 years in the ministry of God. 

Junior Church will be held as well with Penny Canary and Jill Thomas leading the lessons.

The community is invited to worship with us!

Steve Howell will preach on Sunday, July 11, 2021.

 
June 23-25, 2021
 

45th OLD FASHIONED FARMERS DAYS COMING TOVAN WERT FAIRGROUNDS                

Entertainers are MATHEW KEELER AND NOAH BLACK                                                                                                                      

Old Fashioned Farmers Days is back this year 2021.  It will be held July 1, 2 and 3 at the Van Wert  County Fairgrounds.  There are some new and exciting things planned.  On Thursday, July 1, 2021 there will be a Ladies snowflake make-n-take at 2:00 p.m.  At 6:00 p.m. Mathew Keeler will perform.  Matthew Keeler performs a wide range of traditional and early popular music from a bygone America, including old-time, pre-WW2 blues, rags and jug band tunes.  He also includes a large repertoire of English, Irish, and Scottish ballads in his sets, as well as the traditional instrumental dance music of those countries.  He features unusual instruments, such as the melodeon button accordion, the hurdy gurdy (a mechanized wheel fiddle played with a crank), and various instruments from the mandolin family.

On Friday, July 2, 2021 there will be another ladies make-n-take at 2:00 p.m.  The Antique Tractor pull weigh in will start at 6:00 p.m  Also at 6:00 p.m. Noah Back will perform.  Back is a young entertainer whose roots commenced in rural South Western Ohio.     His time as a performer began at the age of 12, so he has been delighting audiences for over half his life. His major musical influences were John Denver, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and the Bee Gees. When asked what kind of music he likes to play, he always says, “My favorite music to play is whatever you want to hear.”  His repertoire is made up of songs from the 20’s to the present and include ballads, folk music, country, pop, rock, rock’n roll, gospel and more.

 On Saturday. July 3, 2021 the Van Wert County Sheriff’s office will have a k-9 demonstration at 10:00 a.m.  At 11:00 a.m. the National Kiddie Pedal Tractor pull will start with registration starting at 10 a.m.  Garden Tractor Pull will start weighing in a 1:00 p.m.  The fiddle, banjo and harmonica contest will take place at 3:00 p.m. (Contestants still needed) Tug-A-Truck starts at 7 P.m.

Daily events will include flea markets and crafts, quilt demonstrations, Indian relics and artifacts demonstrations, saw milling and threshing, trading post, antique tractor and engine displays and much more.  There will be concession stands on the grounds and barbeque chicken on Friday night and Ham and Beans on Saturday at noon.

Please come out and enjoy the fun.  Camping available.  For more information call 419-203-2700 or 419-203-4159.  Flea Mkts-419-394-3189

Website: http://www.oldfashionedfarmersdays.com/home.html

Pastor Steve Howell leads worship service at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Pastor Steve Howell to the pulpit on Sunday, June 20, 2021, Father’s Day. He started out recognizing all fathers present and mentioning that dads often work behind the scenes and get less recognition than moms on their special day.

His inspiring message, titled, “This is my Father’s World,” included Biblical verses from the Old and New Testament about the relationship between us (children) and our perfect heavenly, loving Father - God. Steve went on to read the Gospel Lesson from Luke 15: 11-31, the parable of the prodigal son.  Jesus teaches us the relationship with God Almighty through it. The parable goes that two sons asked their father for their inheritance. The first son stayed home with his father and worked the farm. The second son took his inheritance and left the farm for foreign lands where he squandered everything.  He sinned. He became hungry and had to work hard in the fields for little pay and little food. He decided to go home where he knew he could do the same labor with fair pay and food to eat. His father was a just man. When his father saw him coming down the road, he welcomed him, put a ring on his finger, killed the fatted calf and had a party. His brother who had stayed on the farm was very angry and jealously and would not go meet his brother.  When questioned by his father, he lashed out saying that his father never did these things for him. He saw his relationship as owner and slave with his father. He sinned. But his father explained that his brother, whom they thought was dead, lived! Cause to celebrate! Jesus teaches us the relationship we have with God. Not owner-slave, not master-servant, not boss man and employee but God Almighty Heavenly Father-sons and daughters.

Pastor Steve Howell is a retired minister from Grace Missionary Church.

Pastor Steve will be back in the pulpit on Sunday, June 27, 2021 delivering the message entitled “When a Little Becomes A Lot” which is based on the Gospel Lesson John 6:1-15 - for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

Please call Becky Shope 419-363-2227 for any questions regarding the worship services.

Visit the St. Paul’s UCC – Rockford Facebook Page for information as well.

BRIDGE CLOSING - PUBLIC NOTICE

The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Siegrist Jutte Road between Township Line Road and Erastus Durbin Road in Recovery/Washington Township for a bridge replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on June 28, 2021 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 5 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

 
June 21-22, 2021
 

Rockford Bicentennial Committee thanks Community and Volunteers
by Mike Schumm, Chairman
The Rockford Bicentennial Committee would like to thank all who made last weekend’s Community Days a success.  What a joy it was to see the scores of onlookers as the Grand Parade made its way down Main Street and Front Street.  What a blessing it is to live in a community that renders such great support as we celebrate 200 years of existence.  We are in the process of rescheduling our vintage baseball games with the Ohio Village Muffins and the Ohio Village Diamonds, as well as having a time capsule dedication and printing of Bicentennial booklets.  Again, thank you to all businesses, the village of Rockford, and all citizens who made the 2021 Rockford Community Days a weekend to remember.  You are all truly special people!

Ohio City’s ‘Lambert Days’ Coming Soon

The Ohio City Park Association is finalizing plans for the 2021 Lambert Days Celebration. This year’s events will be modified, because of a lack of annual funds and time constraints, due to the 2020 pandemic. We are also in need of volunteers for this year’s community festivities. Homemade desserts are also in need for our dinners. There will be a community garage sale featuring homes within a five mile radius of the Village. If you are interested in having a sale added, please contact Laura: 419-771-9463 For general information contact Jason: 567-259-9460 or Brenda: 419-771-0583 or Scott: 419-953-9511 or visit lambertdays.com.

Friday Steak Dinners will start at 4 with take-out available. There will be a carshow with registration starting at 5 and ending at 6 with the judging at 7. The “Lambert Days Pinball Classic” qualifier will be inside the community building that starts at 5 with the top half of the scorers playing a tournament Saturday evening at 7. Open play will be available all weekend. Fireworks will be displayed on the park grounds approximately at 10:15. Saturday will feature a hog roast dinner at the community building starting at 4 with bingo starting at 5. Pinball tournament at 7 with music provided by: DJ Jaime Delgado. Sunday the community building will be serving a chicken dinner and the 53rd annual Lambert Days parade will start at 3.

The Community Building will be serving food all weekend, along with outdoor vendors. There will also be a 50/50, items and baskets that will be raffled off inside the building. The Ohio City Park Association is using this year to rebuild our annual festival and are planning on making 2022 bigger and better than ever. We are still working on a few last minute additions that will be added to our schedule. Follow us on Facebook or visit our website for future details.  Of course, all of this is being done by a handful of local volunteers. To achieve the potential of these events volunteers are needed. Volunteer today and be a part of something that is bigger than just one person,.... Be a part of the Lambert Days community. 

WILLSHIRE SPORTSMAN’S CLUB HOSTS TRADE DAYS

The Willshire Sportsman’s Club is pleased to announce their Annual Flea Market and Trade Days that will be held dawn to dusk July 29, 30 and 31, 2021 located at 3385 State Route 81, two miles east of Willshire, Ohio on State Route 81. Bring the entire family—admission and parking are free. All types of Flea Market items, crafts, cement figures, tools, dog supplies, antiques, fishing, and hunting supplies. The Vendor’s Auction is Saturday, July 31 at 6:00 p.m. Breakfast, lunch and supper concessions are available each day. Hosted by the Willshire Fire Department, breakfast begins at 5:30 a.m.. Lunch and supper are hosted by the Parkway Booster Club. A few vendor spaces are still available for $30. No three-wheelers or four-wheelers are allowed except for the handicapped, must be 16 to drive a golf cart.

 
June 19-21, 2021
 

Chained Eagles Make appearance at the Rockford Bi-Centennial

Rockford American Legion Post 508 makes a donation of $200 to the Chained Eagles of Ohio in front of their their traveling
OHIO MIA/POW WALL displayed at the Rockford Community Days & Bicentennial Celebration.
  
Pictured from the left: Arlan Makley, Chained Eagles; Lowell Warthman, Reed Shaffer, Post 508; Bill Ream, Chained Eagles;
Alex Rowen, Post 508; and Herb Chaney, Chained Eagles.

Kidz Treehouse Wins Decorating Contest in Rockford

Congratulations to Kidz Treehouse for winning the Best Rockford Business SpringFest decorating contest !

Jessica Shaffer - owner and her excellent staff each received a Wabash tumbler and a gift certificate to
Wellness 365 compliments of Wabash Communications.

Thank you~ Amy Wendel and Jackie Muhlenkamp Wabash Communications representatives.

Come Hear Pastor Steve Howell at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Steve Howell back to the pulpit on Sunday, June 27, 2021. His message entitled “When a Little Becomes A Lot” is based on the Gospel Lesson John 6:1-15 - for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

Please call Becky Shope 419-363-2227 for any questions regarding the worship services.

Visit the St. Paul’s UCC – Rockford Facebook Page for information as well.

Shanes Crossing Historical Society Awards Scholarship

Congratulations Mackenzie Springer !   The Shanes Crossing Historical Society Scholarship recipient for 2021.

Mackenzie is a Parkway High School graduate and plans to attend Wright State Lake Campus.  She will be working towards her bachelor's degree in mathematics.   She loves math and can't wait to teach middle school.

Congratulations Mackenzie, we wish you success in your studies and future career.  

Shanes Crossing Historical Society Scholarship Awarded to Audrey Ford

Congratulations to Audrey Ford - the Shanes Crossing Historical Society Scholarship recipient for 2021.
 

Audrey is a Parkway High School graduate of 2021 and will be attending Wright State in the fall to begin working on her historical preservation degree.  She plans
to focus on restoration of historic buildings and artifacts.   Congratulations Audrey and we wish you all the
best on your historical journey !  

Dylan Hughes Awarded Rockford Chamber Scholarship

Congratulations to Dylan Hughes, Parkway High School Graduate of 2021 - The Rockford Chamber Scholarship recipient for 2021.

Dylan plans to attend Otterbein University and major in Early Childhood Education with a minor
in Special Education.   He also plans to play basketball for the Cardinals.  

Congratulations Dylan, the best of luck in your academic future and a rewarding career.

 
June 16-18, 2021
 

 
June 14-15, 2021
 

Young Adult Summer Kickoff Party Planned
C&C Bible Fellowship (4383 S 150 E, Berne, IN 46711) is hosting a Summer Kickoff party for any incoming high school seniors through age 25 young adults on Saturday, June 19th from 5pm-10pm. This event is also open for newly married couples ages 18-25 as well. The event will include mud volleyball, slip n slide kickball, nine square in the sky, and sand volleyball. We will have pizza and a short devotional as well. All young adults under the age of 18 will need to have a signed parental release form for the young adult to participate. You may call the C&C office at (260)-589-9022 with any questions. We look forward to this great day of fun and fellowship.

Schumm Family Reunion Coming to Zion Lutheran Church
The 44th John George Schumm Family Reunion will be held this year on Sunday, August 1 on the grounds of Zion Lutheran Church (Schumm).   A catered lunch (asking a donation for the meal) will be offered at 12 noon or feel free to bring your own packed picnic lunch.  Beverages and ice cream will be available.  

 Speaker for the afternoon will be our own Spank Schumm of Rockford who will share historical information about the area.  A self-guided cemetery tour, a magic show and a caricature artist will also be providing entertainment.  We will  have a maps display offered by family member and professor Dr. Harold Moellering as well as a display of early Schumm artifacts, including the 1692 Family Bible.

Family members are urged to attend this exciting reunion time!  The church is located at 17434 Schumm Road, Willshire, Ohio 45898.  You can view the family genealogy by visiting the church website at  www.zionschumm.org and clicking the "About Us" link.   You can visit our Facebook page at John George Schumm Family, or email us at schummfamilyreunion@gmail.com.  We hope to see our family members at the reunion!

Come Hear Pastor Steve Howell at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ
St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Steve Howell back to the pulpit on Sunday, June 20, 2021. His message entitled “Jesus Asks An Interesting Question” is based on the Gospel Lesson John 5:1-15 - for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

Please call Becky Shope 419-363-2227 for any questions regarding the worship services.

Visit the St. Paul’s UCC – Rockford Facebook Page for information as well.

It's time to celebrate Rockford's Bicentennial
Please see the Schedule of Events – click here and other event flyers for next weeks
BIG Celebration !
    
We hope you can take some time to help us  CELEBRATE 200 years !  

Car Show Coming to Bicentennial Event
Under the direction of Lion Dennis Hecht, project chair, members of the Rockford Lions are finishing their preparation for the 27th Annual Rockford Car Show and Cruise-In on Friday evening, June 18th, 2021.  The Car Show and Cruise-In on West Market Street in Rockford are held in conjunction with the 2021 Rockford Community Days and Bicentennial Celebration.  

Car Show registration begins at 4 pm at the corner of West Market and Franklin Streets.  Judging begins at 6:30 and the Awards Ceremony begins at 8:45 pm.  Rockford Lions will also participate in the Community Days Bicentennial Parade on Saturday afternoon, June 19th at 5 pm.

Proceeds from Lions projects like the Car Show and Cruise –In and the Lions Club Quarter Auction in September 2021 fund scholarships and help to fulfill local community needs and requests. 

Picture:  Lion Dan Henkle is presenting the Lions Award to it’s first recipient at the 2019 Car Show and Cruise-In.

Picture: Some the more than 150 entries in the 2019 Car Show and Cruise-In.

 
June 9-13, 2021
 

Rockford Welcomes Community and Dedicates the new Veterans Memorial
All pictures were taken and shared by Leah Thompson - Thank you Leah!

As tradition goes in Rockford, a large crowd of community members honored the fallen veterans at Riverside Cemetery at 10 am.  Flags were placed on the grave markers, a 21 gun salute followed, and TAPS ended the meaningful ceremony.  

The Memorial Day parade followed at 11 am and was led by the Parkway High School Marching Band with band director Ryan Twigg and assistant band director Leslie Baltzell directing.  Many area groups joined in the parade including The Rockford American Legion, with a motorized wagon, many veterans, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, and 4-H Clubs all gathered at the Fire Station and traveled north on Main street to the new Veterans Memorial Dedication Ceremony at Hedges Park beside the Rockford American Legion. Dedication Ceremony Guest Speaker was Reed Shaffer with a solemn message of Memorial Day in our Country and honoring those who fought for freedom.

Retired United Sates Air Force Colonel, Joseph Schmidt, Rockford native, Parkway Graduate and West Point Graduate was the Guest Speaker for the Remembrance ceremony.  He was welcomed to the podium by the Sons of Legion Commander Mike Hodge. The Parkway Band played stirring Patriotic songs and TAPS ended the service.

 
The carry-out Annual Chicken Dinner followed.

Click on smaller thumbnails below to enlarge the pictures.

There's A Rumour Going Around

by Tafi Stober

If you heard there were over one thousand people in Fountain Park for Feel Good Friday last week, you heard right! If you missed it, don't worry, the entertainment just keeps coming. This Friday night, Van Wert Live will bring you back to the 70s and 80s with Rumours, an epic Fleetwood Mac Tribute. Feel Good Friday concerts are free thanks to The Van Wert County Foundation. Here's some inside information on the band Rumours who will have the audience begging for more this Friday night!

Rumours calls Atlanta, GA home and has built a solid fan base there and throughout the eastern United States. While traveling across the United States and selling out venues, the band continues to collect an even larger and devoted fan base on a national level. Selling out shows to standing room only crowds, fans have seen Rumours at venues including The Fillmore in Charlotte, NC, Daryl’s House in Pawling, NY owned by music icon Daryl Hall, a weeklong residency at Epcot Center in Disney World, the 310 Room Austin City Limits and multiple Live Nation venues. Rumours has quickly become one of the most sought-after and highly regarded tribute bands in the genre.

Rumours lead singer, Mekenzie Jackson, in the part of Stevie Nicks was bewitched by the music of Fleetwood Mac at a young age and as it turns out she can duplicate the iconic singers voice so well that she and Rumours effortlessly transport audiences to the height of Fleetwood Mac’s amazing success. The sensational voices of Rumours accomplished musicians recreate the signature harmonies; and along with their expert instrumentation, stage moves, and wardrobe, replicate those magical moments in music history that Fleetwood Mac fans cherish and can now relive again and again.

The passion for the music of Fleetwood Mac is what makes Rumours a success. The band’s members have been influenced by and admirers of Fleetwood Mac for many years and strive to not only recreate their unmistakable, enchanting sound but to give it the honor it so rightly deserves. Fans attending Rumours concerts can feel the love!

 

Their setlist is packed with feel-good Fleetwood Mac favorites: The Chain, Dreams, Gold Dust Woman, Say You Love Me, Second-Hand News, I Don't Want To Know, Leather And Lace, Blue Letter, Hold Me, Over My Head, Rhiannon, You Make Loving Fun, Little Lies, Sara, Everywhere, Seven Wonders, Holiday Road, Think About Me, Silver Springs, Gypsy, Don't Stop, Go Your Own Way, Stop Draggin' My Heart Around, Edge of Seventeen.

Rumours is composed of band members Mekenzie Jackson (lead vocals), Doug Easterly (lead and backing vocals, guitar and percussion), Alex Thrift (lead guitar), Adrienne Cottrell (keyboards, lead and backing vocals), Nick Whitson (bass) and Daniel Morrison (drums).

Fountain Park is accessible all-day on Friday for placing lawn chairs. Downtown restaurants and the Fountain Park Concession will be open beginning at 5P. The Concert begins at 7:30P. Please note that a change of venue to the Niswonger Performing Arts Center will be communicated on Thursday evening if the weather report is unfavorable. Please stay tuned to our social media pages. Thank you for making Van Wert your live entertainment destination.

HIT Team Makes Traffic Stops
Mercer County Sheriff, Jeff Grey reports that the HIT Team (Heroin Interdiction Team) conducted a detail on Monday (June 7th, 2021).  The detail focused on stopping the use and transportation of narcotics.  The HIT Team is made up of members of the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, Celina Police Department and Coldwater Police Department. 

The HIT Team made 9 traffic stops that resulted in 5 warnings being issued, 2 citations issued as well as one criminal citation.  Two people were arrested as a result of this detail. 

Virgil J Keysor 45 years of age, of 1709 E Livingston Street Celina, Ohio.  Keysor was arrested on a warrant for Failure to Appear for a court hearing.

Robert A Hamblin 55 years of age, of 1801 E Livingston Street Celina, Ohio.  Hamblin was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine a Felony of the fifth degree.  Hamblin’s bond was set at 50 Thousand dollars subject to 10 percent by Celina Municipal Court Judge Kathryn Speelman.   The case is being sent to the Mercer County Prosecutors Office for review.

Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

Dana Smith of The Belle in Rockford filled the Pulpit of St. Paul’s  on June 6, 2021

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Dana Smith, a leader at The Belle, in Rockford on June 6, 2021. His family came that day as well, and his daughter Bonnie (Smith) Wells, played the keyboard for the congregation. Their ministry was very much appreciated.

Dana’s message was entitled: Living in the Moment.

Dana began by claiming he liked audience participation. Throughout the service he asked several questions. Then he played a song from WBCL – Keep me in the Moment.  It asked, “What have we accomplished as time slips away and our lives with it?”  Dana’s suggestion is living in the present and exercising mindfulness – attention to the present. With this activity comes 1. lower levels of stress and anxiety; lower blood pressure; increased psychological well-being; 2. Improvement in relationships; and gaining control over mind, body and emotion.

According to Dana, this is God’s standard as read in the scriptures Matthew 6:25-34 – “Oh you of little faith, seek first the kingdom of God; do not worry.” Rest in God who handles things. Dana reminds us we have no control over the past and the future, so appreciate what we have now; make the most of opportunities and rest in God. Dana told of finding two balloons floating slowly down Market Street in Rockford last week. One was heart-shaped. They came right to Dana. He took it as a message to share, and shared a heart-shaped balloon in the service with his Aunt Connie Sapp. He told Connie, “God has your back.”

Steve Howell will be preaching on June 13 – Message title: Our Heavenly Father.

Please call Becky Shope 419-363-2227 for any questions regarding the worship services.

Visit the St. Paul’s UCC Rockford Facebook Page for information as well.

St. Paul's United Church of Christ congregation honored 5 graduates on Sunday, June 6, 2021.
Attending were Parkway graduates of 2021: Left to right Sydney Rutledge, daughter of Rob and Tonya Rutledge and Tracy Protsman ;
Claire Rutledge, daughter of Rick Rutledge and Traci Rutledge. These lovely young ladies are also the granddaughters of
Jack and Phyllis Rutledge. Brayton Luginbill is the son of Scott and Jill Luginbill. They each received a gift from the church, and we are so proud of their accomplishments at Parkway.

Unable to attend were: Kylie Jo Schaadt, son of Jerry, Jr. Schaadt and Christine Jacobs-Schaadt, and granddaughter of Jerry and Cheri Schaadt; and Savannah Gail Medina, daughter of Connie and Matt Ousley and granddaughter of John and Karen Ousley.

 
June 6-7, 2021
 

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ to Welcome Steve Howell Back to the Pulpit
St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Steve Howell back to the pulpit on Sunday, June 13, 2021. His message entitled “Our Heavenly Father” is based on the Gospel Lesson Luke 15:11-31 - for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

Please call Becky Shope 419-363-2227 for any questions regarding the worship services.

Visit the St. Paul’s UCC – Rockford Facebook Page for information as well.

 
June 1-5, 2021
 

Barn Quilt Tour Planned on Saturday, June 12, 2021
Join us on the Rockford, Ohio Bicentennial  Barn Quilt Bus Tour to be held on  June 12th at 10:00 am.  We will begin the
tour from the Rockford Village Hall located at 151 E Columbia St - Rockford, OH

A walk around Shanes Crossing Historical Museum will start at 9:30 am to learn some local history.  The bus leaves at 10:00 am to explore Rockford and the surrounding area viewing locally made wooden barn quilts.  

Barn Quilts originated in the South.  When people couldn’t afford to paint their barns, they would create a pattern much
like the quilts on their beds, and use any leftover paint from their house to paint barn quilts.  Even though the name
implies that an entire quilt is painted onto the wood, it is generally only a single quilt block.  

During the bus tour, there will be 2 “stop and shop” breaks at Prairiewood Primitives and Dandelion School House.  A sack lunch will be provided.  The cost will be $25.00.  To sign up – call Barb at 419-305-1272 by June 9th.    
The paid RSVP will hold your seat.   Seating is limited.     Questions should be directed to 419-363-3032 ext 1.  

ROCKFORD, OHIO BICENTENNIAL
TRACTOR AND ENGINE SHOW
JUNE 18 & 19TH, 2021
LOCATION:   SHANES PARK


ALL MAKES, MODELS AND SIZES WELCOME!  FEATURING 1980 AND OLDER.   (NEWER MODELS ARE ALSO WELCOME)

FOR INFORMATION CONTACT 419-363-3806 OR
567-644-3094.

ALL ATTENDEES ARE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE PARADE ON SATURDAY AT 4 PM – LINE UP.

Landscaping at St. Paul’s

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, on 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, recently had new landscaping completed under the Cross. Taking on this task was Jayden Black of Willshire who is a student of Horticulture and Landscaping at The Ohio State University in Columbus. Stop by and take a look!

Dana Smith, from The Belle in Rockford, to Speak on Sunday, June 6, at St. Paul's

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford invites the community to hear Dana Smith from The Belle in Rockford, who will be in the pulpit on Sunday, June 6, 2021. Come and hear his Bible message “Are you living in the moment?”

Steve Howell, will speak on Sunday, June 13, 2021 as well as June 20^th and 27^th.

PICKLE BALL UPDATE
Shanes Park - Rockford, OH  

YAHOO!! We are on the schedule for resurfacing the court and the NETS have been ordered.  
Goal of completion date is June 17th. Just in time for our big 200th birthday CELEBRATION!!!
We are STEPPING UP our game for donations to help get this completed.

Any size donation accepted.

Make Checks payable to
Shanes Park
PO Box 282
With pickle ball in the memo

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT.

Mercer County Youth to Youth Retreat & Mini Retreat Planned  
by Laura Sanford

The Mercer County Youth to Youth Retreat & Mini Retreat (formerly known as the S.T.A.R. Retreat) is an all-day Retreat that will equip students with skills to be a better leader and positive role model in their schools and communities.  Through supportive small discussion groups, workshops and presentations created and delivered by us, innovative team building, and of course a LOT of fun; participants will gain knowledge, create relationships, and build skills that will hopefully last a lifetime.  Students will also be more confident in their choice to be drug-free, and encouraged to share this message with others!

The main focus will be on alternative activities-coping skills, new hobbies and lasting friendships to support them in this decision.

Retreat (finishing grades 5th, 6th, 7th): Tuesday, June 8th from 9   from 9 am – 9 pm

Mini Retreat (finishing grades 2nd, 3rd, & 4th): Thursday, June 10th from 9 am – 5 pm (registration from 8:30-9 am

Location: St. John’s Lutheran Church (AKA Purple Door Church) in Celina

Mercer County Health District Offers Online Birth and Death Records
Birth and Death Records Are Now Available Online CELINA- Mercer County Health District has partnered with Permitium to offer an online option to order birth and death records. MCHD retains vital records from 1908 to present and can provide birth certificates for those born anywhere in the state of Ohio. Death certificates are available for those who passed away in Mercer County only. Certified copies are $28 each and the site will charge an additional convenience fee as well as a credit card fee over and above the $28 fee. Expediting options are now available, allowing for Priority and Expedited (Overnight) Shipping options. Anyone interested in requesting vital records securely online can go to https://merceroh.permitium.com/rod

Deacon Tom Sanford leads worship service at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ – Dana Smith to Speak on June 6, 2021

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed the Deacon Tom Sanford (from New Life Christian Center in Celina and director of Kingdom Harvest Ministries) to the pulpit on Sunday, May 30, 2021. His message, titled, “Our Identity Found in Ruth,” included two Biblical references for the message from God that the life we have can only be found in Him.. The first lesson was about following God (in Ruth 1:16) “Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried.”  Deacon Sanford retold the history of these scripture.  Naomi and her husband Elimelech were Israelites. They moved from Bethlehem to Moab in order to avoid a famine. Their two sons met and married the foreigners, Orpha and Ruth. Naomi’s husband died and then their two sons died as well. Naomi, in a voice of practicality, told her daughters-in-law that she was returning to Bethlehem, where the famine was over. She advised the ladies to stay in Moab with their families, who could take care of them. Orpha stayed in Moab, but Ruth could not be dissuaded. Ruth had found God and wanted to be with his people.  Ruth, the alien, felt God move in her life and she went his way with Naomi. Later she married the Israelite, Boaz, and had a son. God blessed her when King David her great grandson became the ruler of Israel and Judah.

Tom reminded the congregation that we have to set our hearts right like Ruth did and cling to the word of God. Naomi felt God was against her, but in the end she was blessed because God makes masterpieces out of those sad stories. Pursue Christ and his ways.

Dana Smith will speak on June 6, 2021. Come and hear his Bible message “Are you living in the moment?”

Vantage Adult Education Police Academy Graduates Eight

The Vantage Career Center Police Academy recently celebrated the graduation of eight students.

These eight graduates experienced a rigorous course of study, completing over 700 hours of classroom and on/off field training, covering a wide variety of Peace Officer skills, including: human relations, firearms, driving, investigation, physical conditioning, traffic, homeland security, and many others. Due to the extensive training, students were able to solidify employment upon graduation.

Vantage Police Academy Commander Rob Black says, “This past year, with Covid-19 and the way law enforcement has been covered heavily in the media, this group remained committed to their profession by dedicating themselves to developing their skills and knowledge, showing strong character.” Black, as well as the Vantage Adult Education Staff, extended congratulations to the following graduates: Brett Belew, Dylan Crawford, Shelby Cummins, Martin Kessler, Ashley Lovette, Chance Mosier, Timothy Wells and Drew Wort.

Vantage Police Academy is currently accepting applications for the fall class until June 30. Students will earn the training and certifications needed to fill upcoming local and statewide openings in law enforcement.  “The Vantage Police Academy is looking for students with character and positive attitudes who are committed to serving and strengthening their communities.” says Vantage Adult Education Director, Kit Tyler. “There has never been a greater need for peace officers than today. Become one of those who make a difference.”

Financial assistance is available and applications can be picked up at the Vantage Adult Education office (door 6) or call Enrollment Coordinator Maria Diltz at 419.238.5411 x2118. Application deadline is June 30 and the program starts August 16th.  Vantage Career Center Police Academy has been serving Van Wert and surrounding communities since 1994.

 
May 26-31, 2021
 

10th Anniversary of Memorial Day Celebration
by Kim Carr

Willshire has a treasure that is only around for a few short days each year. Bill and Aleta Weiss own and operate Willshire Home Furnishings but for several days each year their business closes so they can honor local Veterans.  This project started when Aleta wanted to honor her father's military service.  Her passion for this project is evident by the care taken to prepare the many displays.

The exhibit of military uniforms, pictures, and artifacts is like no other and takes weeks to prepare. It includes displays of all divisions of the military and artifacts from as early as WWl. The exhibit is available on  May 29th, 30th, and 31st from 9am to 6pm each day.

Come join Bill and Aleta on their 10th year of honoring our local Veterans. 

CHIP & SEAL SEASON

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart is announcing that crews will be starting the yearly chip and seal work on approximately 103 miles of rural local roads in Mercer County.

We are requesting that yard mowing trimmings not be blown onto the county and township roads.  Cut grass on the pavement creates additional prep work to get the roads ready for chip and seal and impedes the speed of the work.

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

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

Honor Flight Plans Drive Thru Veteran Celebration

Honor Flight Northeast Indiana (HFNEI) is presenting “A Drive Thru Salute to All Veterans” to be held in the parking lot of the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Ave, on Saturday June 12th from 10 am to 11:30 am. Vehicles are asked to enter from Parnell and they will exit onto Coliseum after navigating the celebration corridor.

The event is planned as an opportunity for Honor Flight Northeast Indiana to stay connected with all veterans including those who have patiently waited for clearance to resume Honor Flights. Veterans who have not yet signed up for a future flight will be invited to do so through applications and information on how to sign up which will be distributed to each vehicle via a goody bag while supplies last.

HFNEI President Dennis Covert states “Our most recent update from Honor Flight National Network is that we are tentatively to resume flights after August 15th.  All those participating in 2021 flights will be required to provide proof of having received a COVID-19 vaccination. Of course, that is subject to change. We hope that the veterans attending this Drive Thru event will get a small taste of what our homecomings are like when we return from a flight”.

Groups such as the Patriot Guard, the Corvette Club and more are planning to help support the event with their presence.

Honor Flight NE Indiana, Inc. is a volunteer, nonprofit, 501(c)3 organization. Donations are tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law. Please visit our website www.hfnei.org or Facebook. If you have questions, please call the Honor Flight number 260-633-0049.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH in Van Wert ANNOUNCES OPERATION BACK TO SCHOOL FOR 2021

First United Methodist Church, located at 113 W. Central Avenue in Van Wert, in partnership with many Van Wert businesses and churches, has set the date of Sunday, August 1st for their 6 th Annual Operation Back to School event.  This FREE event provides backpacks, school supplies, and hygiene items to Van Wert County families in need.  Students in pre-school through 8th grade may pre-register online at www.vanwertfirst.net by following the “Operation Back to School” student registration link or stop by the church office to fill out a registration form.  Pre-registration is highly encouraged and will close July 21st.  The event will begin at 3 pm and end at 5 pm, with games and food for the entire family.  We ask that families do not arrive on site prior to 2:45 as we will be organizing the park and areas surrounding the park for the event. Plan to join us for the afternoon. 

The high school event will be held at a later date.

Anyone wishing to volunteer at the event, to donate to help the project or for more information please call Teresa at First Church 419-238-0631 ext 307. You can also check out our website at www.vanwertfirst.net and look through the ‘Operation Back to School’ and ‘eGiving’ links. VENMO has also been added to our ability to accept donations using: @FirstUnited-Methodist. You may bypass the phone number when requested.

Bridge to Close
The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Watkins Road between Post Road and Hemmelgarn Road in Granville Township for a bridge replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on June 1, 2021 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 3-4 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

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

Rockford Carnegie Library’s Summer Reading Program
Starts Soon
It is time for the Rockford Carnegie Library’s Summer Reading Program. This year’s theme is Tails and Tales. We will explore a new animal each week. Just like previous summers the same program will run for a week so pick from the following: Tuesday’s 10:30-11:30, 12:30-1:30, & 2-3 or Wednesday’s 10:30-11:30 & 12:30-1:30. Pick a day/time and sign up now for the whole 6 weeks by calling, stopping in, or messaging the library on Facebook. Pre-registration is required in order to keep the class sizes small. Preschool (5 & under) and school age (6-12) will be in separate rooms. The kids will enjoy a story, craft, game, and snack.  Please let us know of any allergies or dietary restrictions.

Programs will start June 15 and run till July 31 with the exception of the week of July 4th. Finale Lunch Party and Prize Giveaway will be Tuesday, 8/3 and Wednesday, 8/4 at noon at The Community Building at Shanes Park. Need not be present to win. Please attend Tuesday or Wednesday. Free lunch for the family will be provided.

There will be an evening program on Thursday, 7/15 from 6:30-7:30 for those 0-12 years’ old that are unable to attend day programming. No registration required.

For participants age 0-12 there is no maximum number of minutes or books that need to be read. We want you to have fun reading about what you enjoy and at your own pace this summer. Same goes for teens ages 13-17. We know getting teens to the library is half the battle. Just simply fill out a slip every time you visit the library for a chance to win prizes that will be awarded at the finale party. Need not be present to win.

As for adults, every book you read or listen to from June 15 until July 31 enters you into the gift card drawing. Just turn in a slip with your name, the book title, and author. Slips are available at the library.

Join us for Book Club, Monday, June 7 at 2pm. The discussion is over It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover. Stop by the library to get your copy of the book. Give the library a call if you can’t make it in June but are interested in learning more about book club or attending an evening session.  

For additional information please stop by the library or check us out on Facebook. Curbside pick-up is still available. The library is OPEN: M-TH 10-7, F 10-5:30, and S 10-2. Call us at 419-363-2630.

READ, Have Fun and Stay Safe this Summer!

Golf Outing Announced
The Celina Mercer Cty Chamber Golf Outing is scheduled for next Friday, May 28th at the Mercer County Elks. This is a FANTASTIC way to kick off the Memorial Day weekend. I still have room for one (or possibly two) teams to join us. Call today - 419-586-2219, before it's too late. Great prizes too! And for those already signed up, we are ready for a fun afternoon. Registration begins at 11:30am with a12:30p start time. It's going to be great!

 

Summer Youth Theatre is BACK in Van Wert

Van Wert Civic Theatre is thrilled to be able to offer two summer youth theatre experiences this summer.  On Wednesday, May 26 and Thursday, May 27 at 6:30 p.m. directors Amy Boley, Emily Gehle, and Alyssa Taylor will hold auditions for Schoolhouse Rock Live Jr.   Performances will happen June 24, 25, 26 at 7:30 p.m. and June 27 at 2 p.m.  This musical is loosely based on a Saturday morning cartoon series and pop culture phenomenon. (If you are old enough, you know the songs.)  It is one of the most fun shows to be a part of.  The show follows a young teacher, Tom, who is nervous about his first day.  He turns on the TV, and those memorable songs such as "Just a Bill" and "Conjunction Junction" spring to life.  

Youth ages 5 to 18 may audition for a variety of speaking, singing, and dancing roles.  Please wear a face covering to auditions.  Those auditioning will be asked to sing a short song (Happy Birthday works very well) and learn a dance.  Rehearsals will begin June 1 from 10 a.m. to noon and will run Mondays - Fridays.   Face coverings will not be required during rehearsals or performances.  The number of youth cast in the show may be limited.  

The second opportunity for young people to get on stage is the play Twelve Angry Pigs directed by Monica Campbell.  Auditions will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 20 and Monday, June 21.  Performances will be July 30 and 31 at 7:30 p.m. and August 1 at 2 p.m.  In this comedic parody of Twelve Angry Men, a certain wolf is on trial for blowing down a pair of houses owned by the Three Little Pigs. A Jury of Swine must now decide if they will convict, or declare the wolf not guilty. Most of the angry pigs believe the wolf is big and bad. However, some storybook characters help the pigs review the facts, and Pig #8 asks some tough questions that will make the rest of the pigs realize that the testimony of Little Boy Blue is nothing but hogwash.

Young people in first grade and up are invited to audition.  There are a variety of roles available.    Rehearsal will begin on June 24.  This show will rehearse in the evenings Sundays - Thursdays.  Note: the cast will be limited to 25 actors.  

Auditions will be held at Van Wert Civic Theatre at 118 South Race Street in Van Wert.  Tickets for each show will go on sale on the Monday of performance week.  VWCT is also looking ahead to the 2021 - 2022 season.  Look for more information in the summer months.  Visit vwct.org for more details.

Family Entertainment Returns To The Niswonger

Van Wert Live is pleased to announce the return of live family entertainment to the Niswonger Performing Arts Center. Buckets N' Boards, presented by Jeffery-Mohr Family Dentistry will make their 2021 Ohio Premier on Sunday, September 26 at 3:00 PM. Tickets are priced from $15 and are on sale now for Members. General Sales begin on Wednesday, June 2. Affordable ticket prices are made possible by Presenting Sponsor Jeffery-Mohr Family Dentistry and 2021 Annual Sponsor Central Insurance Companies, First Federal of Van Wert, and Statewide Ford - Lincoln.

Buckets N Boards Comedy Percussion Show, a Disney Cruise Line Feature Performance, is a spectacularly imaginative work brought to life by two prolific performers. Matt Levingston and Gareth Sever, two masterful musicians, and comedians, bring a joyous charm to this full stage production. The show was born from their shared passion for music and rhythm, but it truly comes to life through the nonstop hilarious interplay between these two characters and their audience. The intricate beats and stunning synchronicity are awesome to behold. The sheer variety of instruments and found objects they are able to manipulate is awe-inspiring. The comedy, centered on the improvisational interactions with the crowd, is the driving force of the show.   

Arson Investigation in Celina

On May 6, 2021 at about 7:52PM the Celina Police Department assisted the Celina Fire Department on a call of a residential fire at 513 E. Anthony St., Celina.  Upon arrival smoke could be seen rolling from under the eaves of the house.  Officers determined that all were out of the residence.

One resident, 43 year old Renee D. Lovelace, was in an agitated stated.  Officers tried to speak with her and calm her down.  She suddenly lashed out at one officer and slapped him.  She was taken into custody and booked into Mercer Co. Jail on charges of Aggravated Arson and Assault, both felonies.  Further charges pending review of the Mercer Co. Prosecutor’s Office.

The incident remains under investigation by the Celina Police Department, the Celina Fire Department and the State Fire Marshall.  Bond was set by Judge Kathryn Speelman at $75,000.

Van Wert Health Announces Scholarship Winners
Van Wert Health announced winners of the 2021 Medical and Health Care Scholarship, an award for high school seniors pursuing continuing education within health care professions.  The field was extremely competitive this year with applications from 110 high-achieving students.   The selected candidates are a group of ambitious and talented students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, academic excellence, and a commitment to helping shape the future of health care.

“The quality of the applications we received was amazing.  The Van Wert Health scholarship program is an investment in our community – an investment in a healthier future,” said Jim Pope, President and CEO of Van Wert Health.  “The program is part of a larger effort to address the nationwide shortage of healthcare workers.  It really is a no-brainer for us to invest in this amazing group of scholars who wish to enter health care careers.” 

The 2021 recipients, who will each receive a $1,000 scholarship which may be renewed for a total of 4 years, are:

·       Nicole Knippen, Ottoville High School

·       Lydia Miller, Parkway High School

·       Rileigh Rahrig, Jefferson High School

·       Samantha Sellers, Lincolnview High School

·       Damon Wiltsie, Jefferson High School

Click on smaller thumbnails below to enlarge the pictures.

 
May 20-25, 2021
 

Memorial Day Festivities in Rockford
The Rockford Community is looking forward to honoring our Veterans on
Monday - May 31,2021 with the following services:

The public is invited to honor our fallen veterans at Riverside Cemetery at 10 am.
Flags will be placed on the grave markers, a 21 gun salute will be given, and TAPS will be played.  

The Rockford Legion is will have a trolley available for veterans to ride on for the Rockford Memorial Day Parade, 3 steps
in.  Meet at parking lot south of the fire station by 11:00 am.

The Memorial Day parade will begin at approximately 11 am (When the band arrives!) beginning at the Fire Station and
travel north on Main street to the service at Hedges Park beside the Rockford American Legion.  This is the site where
the new Veterans Memorial will be dedicated.  Dedication Ceremony Guest Speaker – Reed Shaffer.

Following the Dedication Ceremony, we are honored to have Joe Schmidt as our Guest Speaker for the Remembrance
ceremony.  

The Rockford American Legion will be holding a chicken dinner fundraiser.
The cost will be $9 - Tickets are pre-sale only and are available at
Rockford American Legion, Barrys Family Market, and The Rockford Carryout.  Chicken dinners will be available for pick
up at the drive thru service at the Rockford American Legion right after the service.

Former Missionary, Alex Knous leads worship service at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed a former missionary Alex Knous (from New Life Christian Center in Celina) to the pulpit on Sunday, May 16, 2021. His message, began with three questions:

1) Why are we gathering today?

2) Do you really want to be here today?

3) What is your reason for being here today?

In the scriptures, Alex read the greatest commandment to love the Lord your God with all of your soul. . .  and that is why we gather.

Love your neighbor as yourself, and when we love God it is easier to love others and therefore we want to be in church. John the Baptist said of his love for Jesus that Jesus must increase and John must decrease. God’s love for us is larger than we can imagine.

We care about our church family and want to be with them. This is when the main events of service occur, the important part. In Hebrews 10:19-25, there is love for God and love for one another. All parts must work together in our gifts to stir up good works. Be thankful toward each other. Pray for one another. Then Alex reminded the congregation of the woman who had bled for years and was determined to touch Jesus. She followed him and touched the hem of his robe. Jesus felt energy surge to her and asked who did that. He told her that her faith had made her well. The congregation then prayed for and with those in the congregation who needed extra encouragement.

Former Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey Delivers Message on May 23, 2021

Member Janet Green visits with Sheriff Jeff Gray after church.

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Gray to the pulpit on Sunday, May 23, 2021. His message centered around the events of the past year that have changed our lives. Two things that have never happened before were the COVID-19 Virus and the Defund the Police Movement.

He has happy to announce that, with his team of nurses and officers, they were able to keep COVID out of the jail. But he mourned the death of one of their officers to COVID-19. There were lots of directives coming down from the Governor, and the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department handled everything with great care. Mercer county is safer than big cities like Columbus. He asked us to pray for policemen and deputies here and everywhere especially since Defund the Police has become a political theme in many places. He cited deaths among law enforcement are way up for this time of year, and it is alarming. He cited the order of his priorities: God; Family; and Job.

 
May 17-19, 2021
 

Sheriff Jeff Grey to Speak on Sunday, May 23

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford invites the community to hear Jeff Grey, Mercer County Sheriff, who will be in the pulpit on Sunday, May 23, 2021.

Sheriff Jeff Grey, will speak on Sunday, May 23, 2021.

Veterans Memorial Dedication / Memorial Day Remembrance     

The Rockford Community is looking forward to honoring our Veterans on
Monday - May 31,2021 with the following services:

The public is invited to honor our fallen veterans at Riverside Cemetery at 10 am.
Flags will be placed on the grave markers, a 21 gun salute will be given, and TAPS will be played.  

The Memorial Day parade will begin at approximately 11 am (When the band arrives!) beginning at the Fire Station and
travel north on Main street to the service at Hedges Park beside the Rockford American Legion.  This is the site where
the new Veterans Memorial will be dedicated.  Dedication Ceremony Guest Speaker – Reed Shaffer.

Following the Dedication Ceremony, we are honored to have Joe Schmidt as our Guest Speaker for the Remembrance
ceremony.  

The Rockford American Legion will be holding a chicken dinner fundraiser.
The cost will be $9 - Tickets are pre-sale only and are available at
Rockford American Legion, Barrys Family Market, and The Rockford Carryout.  Chicken dinners will be available for pick
up at the drive thru service at the Rockford American Legion immediately following the ceremony.

 
May 15-16, 2021
 

BRUCE ALAN CUSTER

September 24, 1961 - November 20, 2020

Please join the Custer family on June 5, 2021 at 12:00pm at the Pavilion in Shane’s Park, Rockford, Ohio, as we remember the life of Bruce Alan Custer. Bruce’s wishes were that the be remembered in a celebration of his life, and that is what we are going to do. Bring your stories, memories, and if you can, photos of your adventures with Bruce. We will be serving some of Bruce’s favorite foods, playing some of his favorite music, and gathering in the hometown that he loved so much. It will be an afternoon full of laughter, tears, and fond memories. We look forward to seeing you there.

Click here for Bruce's full obituary.

Carey Fosnaugh

Benny Sapp

Carey, Benny and Bill Scholarship Fund Changes
by Carol Miller Fosnaugh Black and family members of Carey Fosnaugh and Benny Sapp

The Carey, Benny and Bill Scholarship funds have been moved from the Leota Braun Charitable Trust to the Mercer County Civic Foundation, according to the families of Carey Fosnaugh and Benny Sapp. This move enables the scholarship funds to become an endowment. The proceeds from the endowment will be awarded perpetually on an annual basis to a Parkway High School student selected from those who apply.

The families thank the directors of the Leota Braun Charitable Fund for their stewardship in the past. Future contributions to the Carey, Benny and Bill Scholarship should be sent to: Mercer County Civic FDN., P.O. Box 439, Celina, OH 45822.

Thank you to all who have supported and continue to support this fund in memory of these young men who died serving their country.

Parkway High School Art Students Post Work
The Parkway High School students have been busy creating this year, and Mr. Ed Kuhn, Art Teacher, offers a way for the public to view their art. Each student has created a web page containing their own artwork. Click on the link below and then click on the student names and pictures.

https://sites.google.com/parkwayschools.org/web-gallery-2020-2021/home

Rockford Lions Club Welcomes New Member

Rockford Lions welcomed Parkway Middle School Principal Bryan Woods to their
May 10th meeting held at the Rockford Village Office.  The 2020 and 2021
Eighth Grade Class trips to Washington D.C. led by Woods were cancelled due to ongoing COVID health and travel concerns.  
Woods shared a portion of the virtual trip to Washington D.C. that eighth
and ninth grade Parkway students are experiencing at school this week, May
10th -14th.  Visits to the National Mall, the Washington Monument, watching
the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and
participating in the wreath laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery
have been a part of their yearly itinerary.  
This week, live guest speakers enhance the D.C. virtual tour of historic
sights.  On May 14th students will witness a local salute to local veterans
Benny Sapp, William (Bill) Miller, and Carey Fosnaugh who lost their lives
serving their country in the Viet Nam War.  

Rockford Lions continue to support the Parkway Eighth Grade Trip through
projects like the Lions Club Drive Thru Chicken Dinner.  
Under the direction of Lion Dennis Hecht, project chair, members of the
Rockford Lions are finishing their preparation for the 27th Annual Rockford
Car Show and Cruise-In on Friday evening June 18th, 2021.  The Car Show and Cruise-In on West Market Street in Rockford are held in conjunction with the Rockford Community Days.  On June 18th, Car Show registration begins at 4 pm.  Judging begins at 6:30 and the Awards Ceremony begins at 8:45 pm.

Rockford Lions will also participate in the Community Days Parade Saturday
afternoon, June 19th, 2021 at 5 pm.

The Rockford Lions, under the direction of project chair LeeAnn Frank, have
rescheduled their Quarter Auction for Sunday, September 12, 2021. Doors open at 12:30. Auction begins at 1:30 pm.  
Additional Details will be released as they are finalized.  The first Lions Quarter Auction was held in 2019.  

The 2020 event was cancelled due to COVID health concerns.  

Proceeds from Rockford Lions Club projects, like the Quarter Auction and the
27th Annual Rockford Car Show and Cruise-In on Friday evening June 18th,
2021, fund scholarships and help fulfill local community needs & requests.

The next meeting of the Rockford Lions Club will be Monday, May 24th at 6:30
p.m. at the Rockford Village Office on East Columbia Street.  

Caption:
Parkway Middle School principal Bryan Woods speaking with the Rockford Lions
Club on May 10th about the Washington D.C. virtual tour experienced by
Parkway eighth and ninth grade students May 10-14, 202.

 
May 1-14, 2021
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 16 years!
 

State Line Writer's Club to Meet
The State Line Writers Club will meet May 15 at 10 a.m. in the Bretz Building (Mercer County Civic Foundation), 119 W. Fulton St., Celina. The public is invited.  The writing topic is Blue Sky.  

Marlene Roebuck Retires

Rockford Mayor Amy Joseph presents Marlene Roebuck with a gift of thanks

Congrats to Marlene Roebuck on your retirement from Shanes Park Board. Thank you so much for all your dedication and
time spent helping develop our beautiful Shanes Park into what it is today! Your great efforts will be enjoyed by many for
several years to come!!

Congratulations Marlene !

Alex Knous to Preach on Sunday, May 16

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford invites the community to hear Alex Knous, former mission worker, and member of the New Life Christian Center, who will be in the pulpit on Sunday, May 16, 2021. His sermon title - Time to Turn Around.

Sheriff Jeff Grey, will speak on Sunday, May 23, 2021.

Social distancing and other rules are being followed to keep everyone safe. The community is invited to worship with us!
 

St. Paul’s Congregation Enjoyed Pastor Doug Meyer’s Sermon

Reverend Doug Meyer delivered the sermon on May 9, 2021 which is the last Sunday of Easter. It was also Mother’s Day, and Doug held a Children’s Moment.

To the children in attendance he produced a stuffed caterpillar which turned into a butterfly with some folding and twisting of the stuffed creature. His message was that Jesus is seen as new life and is often depicted as a butterfly. The children saw a butterfly on the banner near the altar as well as in the stained glass window of the sanctuary. Doug provided home baked sugar cookies, to the children and congregation, in the shape of a butterfly to remember Jesus and a heart to remember their moms.

According to the Bible, Jesus, as his time grew short on Earth, issued a new commandment, “Love one another.” He told those he was with at the table that they could not come with him, and then he left the Earth. Doug commented that Mother’s Day is a National Holiday, but not a religious one. However, the Bible says much about marriages and families – Godly parents for our children. Jesus loved the little children.

Pastor Doug explained that in a family, three things must happen to have a solid, happy, Godly home.

1. Love and affection must abound unconditionally.

2. Encouragement must be heard unendingly.

3. Faith is shared unashamedly and must be proclaimed unceasingly. For, our homes are our first churches.

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford invites the community to hear Alex Knous, former mission worker, and member of the New Life Christian Center, who will be in the pulpit on Sunday, May 16, 2021. His sermon title - Time to Turn Around.

2021 Women’s Walk for Wellness Planned
Grand Lake Health in St. Marys is excited to announce the 2021 Women’s Walk for Wellness on Saturday, July 24, 2021 in Celina!

Join them for a beautiful 5K walk along Grand Lake!

Registration is $10. Deadline to receive a t-shirt is July 6.

THANK YOU to our 2021 sponsors: Mitchell Nutt, MD, OB/GYN and Alvetro Orthodontics!

Mercer Landmark’s Latty Terminal Loads Unit Trains with Grain Headed to New Global and Domestic Markets

April / May 2021 - For the first time in over 20 years the Mercer Landmark Latty Terminal Grain Elevator, located in Paulding County off Highway 613 has begun loading full unit trains again. The grain facility, acquired by Mercer Landmark last July, has been undergoing major refurbishment to enable this new opportunity for the farmers in the surrounding community.

The Latty facility, which sits on a Norfolk Southern (NS) mainline can load full unit trains in a 15 – 24 hours window. A unit train consists of 85-90 rail cars which can transport around 320,000 bushels of grain. The Mercer Landmark Grain Operations team, led by Latty Facility Grain Superintendent Tyler Matthews, loaded the first unit train on April 20th and just completed the second one on May 4th. Matthews states, “The new facility at Latty opens up so many new opportunities and markets for the Mercer Landmark farmer. It really allows us, as Mercer Landmark, to provide our farmers with better access to a better market value. There are times where some markets are better than they are here. This gives our farmers the opportunity for the best value and new routes to go.”

Soybeans from farms within the Paulding County area, as well as soybeans trucked in from other Mercer Landmark locations loaded on the first unit train were headed to an export facility in Chesapeake, VA where they will be offloaded onto an ocean vessel destined for Europe. Grain Division Manager and Merchandiser, Kirk Roetgerman, who arranged for the delivery of the grain said the second train was loaded with non-GMO soybeans and headed to Gainesville, GA - most likely to be used for poultry feed.

Mercer Landmark offers 22 locations within Northwest Ohio. The Latty Grain elevator is currently the only location within the company that allows for the loading of full unit trains. Roetgerman says, “The location and capacity at Latty to load full unit trains has opened access to new markets for our local growers. We can ship unit trains to Mobile, AL, giving us access to the export market out of the Gulf of Mexico and reach the Southeast feed markets in GA, NC and SC. The NS line also gives us the opportunity to supply corn into the New York ethanol industry and deliver to the eastern seaboard export ports.”

Heath Barnes, CEO of Mercer Landmark states, “Our investment in upgrading the Latty Grain facility allows Mercer Landmark to continue to be a primary link connecting our local farming communities to the global food supply chain and accomplishing our mission to feed the world.”

Western Ohio Civil War Roundtable to Meet

Jim Bowsher will be the May speaker at the Western Ohio Civil War Roundtable. That date falls on the fourth Thursday, May 27.

Jim has an extensive collection of Civil War artifacts. Every artifact has an interesting story with it, and therein lies Jim's narrative. He is a great story teller, and has pleased our roundtable audiences for several years.

We've been drawing pretty good turnouts for our meetings. Jim frequently draws a bonus audience of friends and supporters who enjoy hearing his presentations. Be prepared to abide by Covid prevention rules...even if you have had the vaccine.

The May meeting is the final session for the year.

 
April 23-30, 2021
 

Bridge Replacement in Jefferson Township

The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Brown Road between Meyer Road and Fleetfoot Road in Jefferson Township for a bridge replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on April 27, 2021 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 4-5 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

Reverend Doug Meyer leads worship service at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ
and will return on Sunday, May 9, 2021

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Reverend Doug Meyer to the pulpit on Sunday, April 25, 2021. His message,  titled, “7 Words AND an invitation that changed the World”) was a continuing lesson for the Easter season covering 50 days from Easter to Pentecost. Doug read those 7 words that changed the world forever “He has risen! He is not here.” Pastor Doug then added three more based on Luke 24:13-35. The disciples were in hiding.  According to this scripture, two of the disciples were walking on the road to Emmaus, when Jesus joined them but they did not see who he was. He asked them what they were talking about, and the two disciples showed great surprise that the traveler didn’t know about the events in Jerusalem - about Jesus being crucified. The disciples explained that they head of the resurrection, but they thought Jesus was coming to overthrow Roman oppression. They still did not understand that the Messiah would conquer death, a bigger enemy than Rome. Jesus made to move along on the road. Jesus never presses himself on anyone. Pastor Doug said Jesus will never turn away when invited into our lives. The three words offered to the stranger were: “Stay with us.” Jesus accepted the invitation. Later that evening, the disciples watched him break bread, and suddenly he was revealed to them. They went out and spread the news. Pastor Doug shared personal testimony that changed his life concerning this very scripture. He said, “ I invited Jesus to come and stay with me day after day. He did.  He lifted a burden off me and showed me what to do to get back into life. If you’re gripped in fear or worry, extend Jesus the invitation. You will never be the same.”

Reverend Doug Meyer will be back in the pulpit on Sunday May 9, 2021. The sermon title is "They Call Her Blessed." He will also be sharing a Children's Moment. He is the retired minister from St. John’s Lutheran Church in Celina serving over 50 years in the ministry of God. 

Social distancing and other rules are being followed to keep everyone safe. The community is invited to worship with us!

Alex Knous, former mission worker, and member of the New Life Christian Center will preach on Sunday, May 16, 2021 title - Time to Turn Around.

Rockford Springfest is May 1, 2021

Make plans to stop by the Shanes Crossing Historical Museum during Rockford's SpringFest on May 1st.  
The museum will be open from 9 am -1 pm  located at 151 E Columbia St.  

Barb Pedroza will be available to talk about the Bicentennial  Barn Quilt Trail, provide Barn Quilt trail maps, take RSVP's for the next Barn Quilt Trail Bus Tour on June 12^th and did we mention there are several barn quilts available for purchase!   See you Saturday :)

The Main Street Rockford committee through the Rockford Ohio Chamber of Commerce is extending an invitation to visit  SpringFest, a community wide event promoting local businesses, which is slated to take place Saturday, May 1, 2021 from 9:00 am- 4:00 pm.

SpringFest activities to date include:
a book sale and a Mother’s Day jewelry craft at the Rockford Carnegie Library
wood-grain art show located inside of Ohio’s Edge Realty
the Shanes Crossing Historical Museum will be open to the public and bicentennial souvenirs will be available to purchase
from 9 am – 1 pm
free petting zoo near the historic mural – South of the Fire Department
open house at the Fire Department
a business decorating contest
and an open-air vendor market
Music and entertainment will be available at Second Crossing Brew Co.
A special retirement party will be held for Marcia Ripley of Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home the same day from 1:00 3:00
PM at the Rockford United Methodist Church

DITCH MAINTENANCE SPRAYING BEGINS

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart is announcing that crews are tentatively scheduled to begin the 2021 herbicidal spray application of various open drainage ditches located in Mercer County. Only those ditches that are on the county maintenance program maintained by the Mercer County Engineer’s Office will be sprayed.

Right of Way Management, St. Joseph, IN has been awarded the contract this year to apply one application of the E.P.A. approved herbicide, to suppress and control undesirable brush and noxious weeds within the channel and maintenance berm.

Weather permitting, the tentatively scheduled completion date for this year’s herbicidal spray application is May 31, 2021. 

Any landowner having questions or concerns regarding the herbicide application, should contact the Mercer County Engineer’s Office, 4195867759.

Parkway May 2021 Printable Combined Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

Mercer County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society to Meet

As we look through our old ancestors' pictures, we notice the style of their clothing. We thought that it would be fun to bring this to life with a special display for Mother's Day.

For our meeting May 9th at 2PM, RELICS antique and vintage clothing store in Wapakoneta, Ohio, is loaning us a special display of clothing from 1920-1980s.

Tonita Phipps and Mary Meyer will be giving the presentation. Feel free to bring any vintage items, or better yet, wear them.

Please come and enjoy.

As always, the meetings are free and open to the public.

Van Wert County Farm Focus Announces Scholarship Recipients             

The recipients of the 2021 Farm Focus, Inc scholarships are Brooke Bockey and Hanna Scaggs awarded $1,000 each, and Jake Bowersock and Elaina O’Neill awarded $500 each.

Bockey is a 2019 Spencerville High School graduate attending The Ohio State University Agricultural Technical Institute in Wooster. She is an Animal Science-Health major and plans to continue her education to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.

Scaggs is a 2020 Lincolnview High School graduate attending Wright State University Lake Campus majoring in Agronomy. Her career goal is to increase the quality of crop seed.

Bowersock is a 2021 graduate of Lincolnview High school. He plans to attend Wright State University Lake Campus in the fall majoring in Agribusiness.

O’Neill is a 2021 graduate of Lincolnview High school and plans to attend Huntington University in Huntington, IN, majoring in Agribusiness.

Farm Focus Inc. was founded in 1974 to promote agriculture in Van Wert County and the surrounding area. It is their continued mission to assist Van Wert County students through a scholarship program that will enable them to pursue a degree in an agricultural related field.

Ohio Department of Education provides analytic details of expenditures
(Information shared by Sherry Shaffer, former school treasurer)

The Ohio Department of Education has provided (on its website) an analytic of school general fund expenditures as compared to general fund cash balances.

It's really good information, according to Sherry.

She said, “If you go to education.ohio.gov and search for five year forecasts you'll get to the forecasts page.  From there go to the link for "Analysis" and it gives an analysis of each fiscal year; a fiscal year is July 1 through June 30.  The analysis shows the total year's general fund expenditures and then the ending cash balance for the related fiscal year for each Ohio school.  What's nice about this is that it also shows ALL schools so you can see how your own district compares to other area districts.  It appears to be sorted by city schools, then exempted village districts, and then local districts. It's another great step toward keeping the public better informed about its school districts." 

This is the shortcut to the forecast page on the ODE website:

http://education.ohio.gov/Miscellaneous/Search-Results?q=Five%20year%20forecast 

Five-Year Forecast Analytics

The Cash Balance Analysis by fiscal year provides total expenditures, ending cash balance, cash as a percentage of expenditures and the five-year average of cash as a percentage of expenditures for each reported district. Cash as a percentage of expenditures is a measure of a district’s financial solvency. The amount of cash “savings” a district has may allow a district to more easily manage unplanned events or a short-term revenue loss. The nature of levy cycles may lead to high cash balances in some years and low cash balances in other years. Therefore, a five-year average also is displayed.

FY20 School District Cash Balance

FY19 School District Cash Balance

FY18 School District Cash Balance

FY17 School District Cash Balance

FY16 School District Cash Balance

FY15 School District Cash Balance

FY14 School District Cash Balance

National Volunteer Week: Mercer County Commissioners Issue Proclamation

CELINA- In observance of National Volunteer Week, Mercer County Commissioners Jerry Laffin and Rick Muhlenkamp presented a Proclamation on Friday to the volunteers who have assisted the MCHD with COVID-19 vaccine drive-thru clinics since the mass clinics began in January.

The Proclamation recognized the volunteers for their efforts in assisting MCHD with greeting, registering, vaccinating, and observing individuals during the COVID-19 vaccine drive-thru clinics. Upon completion of the drive-thru clinics, these volunteers will have participated in 23 drive-thru events.

Local volunteers have also assisted the MCHD with other COVID-19 response activities such as contact tracing, staffing the COVID-19 hotline call center, and assisting individuals with registering for the COVID-19 vaccine clinics. To this date, volunteers have dedicated over 5000 hours to the COVID-19 response.

With a paid staff of 19 people, the MCHD could not possibly meet the demands of a large-scale response to a public health threat without the help of these dedicated volunteers. Their hard work and dedication have been priceless!

Van Wert County General Health District Report
By Britt Menchhofer
On April 29, 2021, the Van Wert County General Health District reports an increase of 17 confirmed cases of COVID-19 since Thursday, April 22, 2021 for a total of 2360 confirmed cases.  We have 1 known hospitalization at this time.  To date the health department has given 10,025 COVID-19 vaccinations.  The following clinic dates are scheduled for this month:

Friday, April 30, from 10 - 5pm at the VW County Health Department-Pfizer 1st and 2nd doses

Thursday, May 6, from 2 - 6pm at the VW County Health Department (please note change in location)- Moderna and Pfizer- 1st and 2nd doses

Thursday, May 13, time TBD at the VW County Health Department- Pfizer and Moderna- 1st and 2nd Doses

Pfizer vaccine is available to all those age 16 and up and Moderna is available to all those age 18 and up.  Unless specified, the clinics dates are for all those who wish to receive a first dose and anyone eligible to receive their second dose of that vaccine.  Please bring your photo id and any insurance info. 

The health department is not making appointments at this time, as all clinics are walk-in only.  The public can also contact Family Healthcare of Northwest Ohio at 419-238-6747 and Van Wert Family Physicians at 419-238-6251 to schedule an appointment.  Van Wert CVS and Van Wert Walmart Pharmacy are also scheduling vaccination appointments on their websites.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – April 29, 2021

Merrcer County Helath District Reports

By Kristy Fryman
CELINA- As of April 29 2021, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 4,046 confirmed cases, 751 probable cases, 3,879 recovered cases, 4 hospitalizations, 85 COVID-19 deaths, and 19 probable deaths of COVID-19. There have been 38 confirmed cases that have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19. Today there are 43 known active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County. 

Due to continued interest in the COVID-19 vaccine, the MCHD is opening up more appointments for tomorrow’s (Friday, April 30) clinic. The clinic will run from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Mercer County Health District. Please call 419-586-3251 extension 1462 to schedule an appointment. The Moderna vaccine will be administered.

A friendly reminder to those who received their first dose of the Moderna vaccine on April 7- the MCHD will still hold our drive-thru clinic at the fairgrounds on May 7 to administer second doses to all of those people. Please refer to your vaccination card for your designated time unless you have been contacted by MCHD for another time.

The MCHD is looking for people who have received the COVID-19 vaccine and would be willing to explain why they got vaccinated. We are looking for people to tell their stories on camera or as a written statement to be shared publicly. If you are interested, please contact Kristy Fryman at 419-586-3251 ext. 1456 or kfryman@mchdohio.org by Friday, May 7.

Multiple providers are now offering COVID-19 vaccine in Mercer County. The list below provides the vaccine type and contact information to schedule appointments with each provider. Please note that the amount and type of vaccine offered by each provider will vary depending on supply and demand.

Eagle Loan Joins Celina Mercer Chamber

Eagle Loan has recently joined the Celina Mercer Co. Chamber.  Eagle Loan manager, Sandy Weng stated “We joined the Chamber to be a part of our community, to let people know we are here, and to let people know they have local resources  close by to support them.  We make loans to people not credit scores! Loans made easy, payments made affordable and we are local! We go above and beyond for our customers with friendly personal service, it’s about our Customer and being there for them when they need it! “ The Eagle Loan staff together offer over 50 years of experience in the lending field.

Eagle Loan looks to be recognized as a valued business who supports their community and the people in it.  To contact Eagle Loan, call 567-510-4242 or visit their location at 1971 Havemann Rd. right here in Celina.

Country's Chris Lane and Cam Announced as Grandstand Artists at the Van Wert County Fair

(Van Wert, OH) - Van Wert Live has the entertainment fix. Country Headliner Chris Lane and Country Artist Cam will take the stage at The Grandstand during the Van Wert County Fair on Saturday, September 4 at 7:30 PM. Presented by Jim and Mary Pope, this concert marks the return of live ticketed entertainment in Van Wert and will be a Labor Day Weekend feature. Supporting Sponsors making this grand return possible are Celina Moving & Storage, Lee Kinstle & Taylor Auto Sales, and Gary Taylor. Van Wert Live 2021 Annual Sponsors bringing back entertainment are Central Insurance Companies, First Federal of Van Wert, and Statewide Ford - Lincoln.

Ticket prices begin at just $29 thanks to these valued Sponsor Partners. Member tickets go on sale Friday, May 7. General Sales open on Friday, May 14. Van Wert Live Membership information for advanced ticketing will be announced on May 5.  Early ticketing buying opportunities are also available to members of the Van Wert Agricultural Society. To become a VWAS Member, contact the Van Wert County Fair Board Office at 419-238-9270. Concert tickets are available online at vanwertlive.com, by phone at 419-238-6722 or in-person at the VWLive Box Office from Noon - 4P Tue-Thu; Noon - 6P Friday.

The VWLive HQ and Box Office is within the Niswonger Performing Arts Center, 10700 SR 118 S, Van Wert. The Grandstand Venue is located within the Van Wert County Fairgrounds at 1055 South Washington Street, Van Wert. (No coolers are permitted. Alcohol will be sold within the Grandstand from the Van Wert County Agricultural Society.)

 
April 19-22, 2021
 

4 Inches measured in Rockford

A freak Snowstorm came to the area
on Tuesday evening and overnight into Wednesday, April 20 & 21, 2021
This measurable snowstorm brought about 4 inches of snow.

The temperature hit well below freezing,
but the roads and sidewalks were so warm that the snow melted on them.

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

Pictures below by Todd Henkle and Sheila Baltzell-Linn
Click on a thumbnail to enlarge the photo.

Reverend Doug Meyer leads worship service at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ and will return on Sunday April 25, 2021

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Reverend Doug Meyer to the pulpit on Sunday, April 18, 2021. He will return again on Sunday, April 25, 2021. His message, titled, “7 Words that Changed the World,” was a lesson for the Easter season which continues for 50 days from Easter to Pentecost. Doug read those 7 words that changed the world forever from the scripture lesson Mark 16:1-8 when Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body. They found the tomb opened. The stone rolled away. They met with the glowing angel of God, inside the tomb, who told them “He has risen! He is not here.” Those 7 words, according to Doug, showed that love is stronger than hatred.  Hope is stronger than despair after the cross. Because of those 7 words, we no longer have to live in fear and indifference. “God, who opened the tomb, can open our tombs so we can get on with living. Life can be lived abundantly because of those 7 words. Because he lives, we too, shall live,” said Reverend Doug, in his message.

Reverend Doug Meyer will be back in the pulpit on Sunday April 25, 2021 (Message title - "Seven Words and An Invitation That Changed the World") and Sunday May 9, 2021. He is the retired minister from St. John’s Lutheran Church in Celina serving over 50 years in the ministry of God. 

Social distancing and other rules are being followed to keep everyone safe. The community is invited to worship with us!

Golf Outing Planned
The Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their annual
golf outing on Friday, May 28th to be held at the Mercer County Elks.  Shot
gun start will begin at 12:30pm with registration open at 11:30am.  Golfers
will have a chance to win a car with a hole in one sponsored by Rino's Auto
Sales in addition to one person having the opportunity to make a 50' putt
worth $5,000 sponsored by Stammen Insurance.  Registration is $275 per team.
Spots do fill up fast so don't delay registration.  This is a great golf
outing to network, golf with great friends, and win great prizes, and what a
fantastic way to kick off the Memorial Day weekend.  Call today to register,
419-586-2219.

  
Harry Frech will be Guest Speaker  

 
April 15-18, 2021
 

Death Investigation/Suicide

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced that his office is investigating the suicide of a Ft. Wayne, Indiana man.  At 11:53 AM the Sheriff’s Office was notified regarding a vehicle that had been parked behind a farm structure on Sell Road, just off State Route 118, Rockford, for several days. Deputies and Celina squad members responded to the scene.

Upon arrival, deputies located a vehicle registered to Jerry E. Garrett of Ft. Wayne, Indiana. Mr. Garrett was listed as a missing person out of Ft. Wayne, Indiana for several days. He was located deceased inside the vehicle. The manner of death appeared consistent with a suicide. Mercer County Coroner Timothy Heinrichs was contacted and released the deceased to Dick & Sons funeral home, Celina.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – April 15, 2021

CELINA- As of April 15, 2021, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 3,985 confirmed cases, 742 probable cases, 3,828 recovered cases, 1 hospitalization, 84 COVID-19 deaths, and 19 probable deaths of COVID-19. There have been 36 confirmed cases that have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19. Currently, there are 38 known active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County. 

As of today, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) reports Mercer County has seen 102 new cases per 100,000 residents over the past two weeks. Mercer County now qualifies as a high incidence county.

As a reminder, the incidence rate is updated twice a week and is significant for a couple of reasons. First, it is looking at the number of new cases over the past two weeks. This gives a better idea of the direction things are trending than we would get if we just looked at the incidence rate over the entire pandemic, as it is reported in the CDC county-level data. Also, the fact that the incidence rate is reported in new cases per 100,000 population allows us to make valid comparisons between rates of occurrence of new cases in different jurisdictions. For example, Franklin County may have a much higher case count than Mercer, but Franklin county also has a much larger population. By comparing rates per 100,000 we can tell which county actually has a higher rate of occurrence of new cases. This is more meaningful than looking at raw numbers of new cases or active cases.

Mercer County is seeing an increase in confirmed cases, especially among the 20-40 age range. We are heading in the wrong direction and all Mercer County residents must make an increased effort to protect themselves and their loved ones by taking the precautions that have been recommended since the start of the pandemic. MCHD encourages everyone to get vaccinated, wear a mask, practice good handwashing, and social distancing. Those are our best tools to help us end the pandemic.

Multiple providers are now offering vaccine in our local area. For a list of options, visit https://gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov/. Anyone still interested in getting the vaccine through MCHD can call 419-586-3251 extension 1462 to be put on a waiting list for a future vaccination opportunity.  The MCHD has routinely been receiving the Moderna vaccine.

Van Wert County General Health District Reports on COVID
On April 15, 2021, the Van Wert County General Health District reports an increase of 21 confirmed cases of COVID-19 since Thursday, April 8, 2021 for a total of 2330 confirmed cases.  We have no know hospitalizations at this time.  To date the health department has given 9,703 COVID-19 vaccinations.  The following clinic dates are scheduled for this month:

Thursday, April 15, 2021 from 2 - 6pm at the VW County Health Department- Pfizer and Moderna vaccine

Wednesday, April 21, 2021 from 2 - 6pm at the VW County Fairgrounds- Moderna

Thursday, April 29, 2021 from 2 - 6pm at the VW County Fairgrounds- Moderna

Friday, April 30, from 10 - 5pm at the VW County Health Department-Pfizer 2nd doses

Thursday, May 6, from 2 - 6pm at the VW County Fairgrounds- Moderna and Pfizer 2nd doses

Pfizer vaccine is available to all those age 16 and up and Moderna is available to all those age 18 and up.  Unless specified, the clinics dates are for all those who wish to receive a first dose and anyone eligible to receive their second dose of that vaccine.  Please bring your photo id and any insurance info. 

The health department is not making appointments at this time, as all clinics are walk-in only.  The public can also contact Family Healthcare of Northwest Ohio at 419-238-6747 and Van Wert Family Physicians at 419-238-6251 to schedule an appointment.  Van Wert CVS and Van Wert Walmart Pharmacy are also scheduling vaccination appointments on their websites. 

Spring planting & open ditch maintenance

The Mercer County Commissioners and the Mercer County Engineer would like to remind those who plant and till the fields around the county this spring to remember to avoid planting in the roadway right-of-way.  The Engineer and the Commissioner’s Office have maps that identify the varied widths of the road right-of-way throughout the county.  More specifically, sight problems limiting the ability of the traveling public to see, can be particularly hazardous.

Also, a reminder to those along county-maintained open ditches.  By law there is a maintenance easement for access adjacent to the tops of banks of the open ditches.  We encourage the use of filter strips to eliminate sedimentation and soil erosion adjacent to the open ditches.  Keep in mind that our maintenance crews use the easement for access for the maintenance operations we perform (the spraying of weeds and brush is the most significant maintenance operation). 

Should you have any questions related to these requirements, please feel free to call the Commissioners’ Office at 419-586-3178 or the Engineer’s Office at 419-586-7759.

Mercer County Snow & Ice statistics for winter season 2020-2021

By Jim Wiechart, Mercer County Engineer

Mercer County, 385.7 miles of roads

13 snow plows average 29-30 miles per route (one way)

40 days of snow & ice control in winter of 2020-2021

Total miles driven = 61,896

Salt used – 1,499.50 tons = $104,117.93

Grit used – 1,499.50 tons = $13,945.36

            Total material costs during the winter season = $118,063.29

Total regular labor hours on snow & ice = 2,181.00 hours

               Overtime hours                         = 1,149.00 hours

Total costs for snow & ice during the season = $385,167.66 (Equip., labor, & material)

Average cost for snow & ice control per mile of roadway:

                                                                        2015-2016 season = $399.54/mile

                                                                        2016-2017 season = $431.49/mile

                                                                        2017-2018 season = $699.21/mile

                                                                        2018-2019 season = $758.47/mile          

                                                                        2019-2020 season = $759.97/mile

                                                                        2020-2021 season = $998.72/mile

Road Closures (early-mid April)

The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is issuing a reminder to all drivers, that during the construction season and also at other times throughout the year, there are various temporary road closures in the county to allow our crews to do the repair/maintenance work required to keep our roads in good driving condition.  These roads may be closed intermittently on our normal work days (Monday thru Thursday 7:30 am-4:00 pm) as conditions and work requirements fashion.

The only reason a driver should bypass a “Road Closed” sign is to access a local address in the “closed” road area.  Through travel should detour away from the closure.

If local access is necessary and you must access the “closed” road, please use caution and drive slow to keep yourself and our workers safe.   

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

Educational Event/ Job Fair

TV-44 and WOSN are hosting a TV Broadcast Educational Event/ Job Fair, Wednesday, April 21, 6-8pm at WTLW TV-44, 1844 Baty Rd., Lima , OH 45807.

Attendees will learn about the various jobs available in the broadcasting industry, tour the TV-44 studio and production facilities, and receive an opportunity to complete an application.

Interested individuals should call or email TV-44. Space is limited. 419-339-4444 or jobs@wtlw.com.  

Rockford SpringFest – May 1st

Make plans to attend Rockford SpringFest’s Wood Grainers Art Exhibit – This cutting edge art show includes local artists
from the surrounding area.      This 1st of it’s kind art show will be located in the Homes at Ohio’s Edge Realty Company
located at 166 N Main St, Rockford Ohio.   The art Exhibit will be held on May 1st from 9 am – 4 pm.   Several artists will
have items for sale.   Stop by for a visit and sign up for some door prizes!

VWHS Theatre Announces 2018 Production Stream

Van Wert High School Theatre will be streaming their 2018 production of Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s "Mary Poppins, The Broadway Musical" on April 16 and 17 at 7PM. This production was filmed on the Niswonger Performing Arts Center stage. The theatre department is excited to share this production with the public once again. This is the first time that a VWHS Theatre production has been re-shared with the community and we are thrilled to share the talents of our current students and recent graduates. Come join us on Cherry Tree Lane where we will retell the story of Mary Poppins and Bert as they visit the Banks’ household. See our real kite flying scene and tap dancing Chimney Sweeps from the comfort of your own home! It will be a night full of entertainment for the whole family. As for the graduating Class of 2021, this was their first musical as high school students. To enjoy our production, visit our website VWHSTheatre.weebly.com for streaming tickets and follow our Facebook and Twitter pages for updates as they become available. Your support of this production will support our future live productions and student theatre opportunities. Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s "Mary Poppins, the Broadway Musical" was directed by Melissa Bloomfield, assistant director Katey Lloyd, technical director Hugh Saunier, and lighting director and construction manager Matt Saunier. Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s "Mary Poppins, the Broadway Musical" is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com.

Retirement-Open House Planned
Ketcham – Ripley Funeral Home in conjunction with Rockford Chamber of Commerce will be throwing a retirement open house for Marcia Ripley. The celebration will be held on May 1st, 2021 during SpringFest at the Rockford United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall from 1 – 3 pm. No gifts are required – we just ask that you come to give your congratulations and best wishes to Marcia as she begins this new chapter of RETIREMENT. If you are unable to come in person, please feel free to send a card to Marcia Ripley – c/o Rockford Chamber, PO BOX 282, Rockford, OH 45882.

COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Line Number

Applications begin on April 12, 2021
844-684-6333 | TTY: 800-462-7585

Hours of Operation:
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Central Time

FEMA will begin accepting applications for Funeral Assistance on Monday, April 12, 2021 through our dedicated call center.

https://www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/economic/funeral-assistance

Ben Neff Joins Jim Shaffer Realty in Mendon

Jim Shaffer Realty in Mendon is pleased to announce the addition of Ben Neff, to its sales staff.  Ben recently completed his Real Estate classes, and passed the State & Federal testing to become a licensed Real Estate Agent in Ohio.  Ben and his wife Michelle, are the parents of four children.  

 
April 1-14, 2021
 

Parkway School Board Agenda for a Regular Meeting on April 5, 2021 at 6:30
by Sally Cox

Girl Scouts is Hosting Events to Welcome New Members

Join in the fun at Nature Discovery Days on 4/19/2021  in Rockford, OH!  The purpose of these is to invite local families to see everything Girl Scouts has to offer.  See how many things you can find on the family scavenger hunt, and enjoy other activities led by Girl Scout staff and volunteers. All is welcome for this FREE event! For girls of all ages and their caregivers.  Check out location and dates at gswo.org/discover

Questions? Please contact Lynn Bryan at 419-225-3056 or lynnbryan@gswo.org

ROCKFORD GIRL SCOUT TROOP 20663 --   Gold Awards.  

Gold Award Girl Scouts are the dreamers and the doers who take “make the world a better place” to the next level. The
Girl Scout Gold Award is the mark of the truly remarkable—proof that not only can she make a difference, but that she
already has according the Girl Scout web site.

Kenzie Stephenson’s Gold Award is a bus stop for Shanes Park located in Rockford.     This project will be a permanent
improvement to the park and provide shelter for students waiting on the bus.  

Audrey Ford’s Gold Award is a Free Little Library also to be located at Shanes Park in Rockford.  This project will be a
permanent improvement and provide free reading materials to those visiting the park.  No need to return your book or
magazine!  – The Free Little Library will be maintained by the Rockford Carnegie Library for years to come.

Donations will be accepted for each project to Troop 20663 – Attn:  Financial Manager– 410 S Shannon St. Van Wert, OH  
45891.  Please mark in the memo section which project you wish to allocate funds.

Thank you Kenzie and Audrey from the Rockford Community!   We appreciate your helping in making us a better place.

125th Annual Mendon-Union H.S. Alumni Banquet

Invitations will soon be mailed out for the 125th Annual Mendon-Union H.S. Alumni Banquet to be held at noon on Saturday June 5th, 2021 at the Celina American Legion Post 210.  Please note: We have moved the Alumni Banquet away from the Memorial Day Weekend, back to the first Saturday in June, where it had been for many years.  This year's honoree's will be the 50 yr. classes of 1970 & 1971, since last year's banquet was cancelled due to Covid.  The cost for the meal is $15.00 per person, and includes Fried Chicken or Swiss Steak, mashed potatoes, chicken & noodles, green beans, corn, roll and dessert, coffee, and water.  In keeping with State & Local guidelines concerning Covid, meals will be served cafeteria style by Legion workers.  No one will serve portions to themselves.   If you aren't sure that you are on the mailing list, and would like an invitation to the banquet sent to you, please call 419-795-5511 by May 1st.  Other events for the weekend are being planned and will posted in early May.     

Ohio Law prohibits signs on trees and poles

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

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

Parkway Eye Of The Pride 5K & Workout Scheduled for May 15

(Rockford, OH) The Parkway Athletic Booster Club announces a community event presented by Van Wert Health, "Eye Of The Pride" 5K & Workout. Participants are encouraged to grab a water bottle and towel and join Panther Nation in getting Stronger Together on May 15th at RSP - Rock Solid Performance on Main Street, Rockford. The event kicks off with a 5K through Rockford. Check-in is at 8:30 AM with race start-time at 9:00 AM. Participants can forgo the 5K portion and take part in a workout created by RSP gym owner, Andrew Peel. The workout can be modified for individuals of all capabilities. Workout check-in is at 10:00 AM and begins at 10:30 AM. Individuals looking for the ultimate test are encouraged to participate in both the 5K and workout. The finish time is expected to be around 11:15 AM. 

Event registrations and sponsorship flyers can be found on the Parkway Athletic Booster Club Facebook page as well as the offices at Parkway Local Schools. Student registration is $15 for the complete 5K Plus Workout or just choose the 5K or workout individually. Adult registration is $30 for participating in the 5K Plus Workout or $25 for just the 5K or workout individually. An event T-Shirt is included with each paid registration. The Registration deadline to receive a t-shirt is April 30th. Registrations can be turned in to the Parkway Elementary Office, C/O Brandi Bruns or sent in the mail to: Parkway Athletic Booster Club, PO BOX 482, Rockford, OH 45882. 

Panther Nation grows stronger together. Businesses, Friends, and Family can support in this fundraising event by being a Family Event Sponsor for $50 (includes name on back of t-shirt) or as a Workout Station Sponsor for $100 (includes name on back of t-shirt and signage at the different workout stations). The Eye Of The Pride Sponsorship form can be found on the Parkway Athletic Booster Club Facebook page or at the Parkway High School Office. 

The Parkway Athletic Booster Club is a non-profit support organization with a mission to help aid and assist the Parkway Athletic Department in making Parkway athletics a success for all involved. Through community support, the Athletic Booster Club has been able to help with needs and facility upgrades for our athletic programs that include a yearly donation for athletic uniforms, new mats for track and field, softball press box, new football jerseys, baseball field reconditioning, volleyball net systems, wrestling warmups and uniforms, bowling uniform tops and many more. Many of these endeavors could not be done without the continued support and involvement of the Parkway community. Sponsors, participants, and spectators are encouraged to take part on May 15th as Panther Nation takes time to flex some muscle and get Stronger Together!

HIT Arrest

Celina, Ohio-Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports the arrest of 36 year old Adam Steinbrunner, 2620 Sawmill Road, Fort Recovery for possession of drugs.   Steinbrunner was stopped by  deputies while working with HIT (Heroin Interdiction Team).  HIT is a joint effort of the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, Celina Police Department and Coldwater Police Department.  HIT focuses on stopping the drug use/trafficking throughout Mercer County.

Grey advised that Steinbrunner was stopped on March 31st at 4:20 PM near Philothea and St. Peter Roads.  The stop was for failing to drive in the marked lanes of travel.  Mr. Steinbrunner was  found to have a suspended driver’s license. The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office K-9, Ossi, was called to the location and alerted to the presence of narcotics.  A subsequent search of the vehicle found a container with a hidden compartment in the bottom, inside the compartment deputies located a meth pipe and over six (6) grams of methamphetamines.  An additional meth pipe was located in the vehicle as well. 

Steinbrunner was arrested and incarcerated in the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility.  His bond was set at $50,000.00, subject to ten percent, by Celina Municipal Court Judge Kathryn Speelman. 

The case has been sent to the Mercer County Prosecutors Office for review and filing of formal charges.

Grey advised that the HIT detail resulted in Steinbrunner’s arrest, as well as two additional people arrested on outstanding warrants.  14 traffic stops were made with 7 warnings issued and 6 citations issued.   Citizens are reminded to continue to pass along drug tips to the Sheriff’s Office.  “If law enforcement and the community continue to work together, we can slow the use of drugs in this county, which makes us all safer,” stated Sheriff Grey.

 
March 29-31, 2021
 

Van Wert Health Welcomes Dr. Kalogerou and Deb Howell to Rural Health Clinic

March 30, 2021, Van Wert, OH – Van Wert Health Physician Group is pleased to welcome Paul A. Kalogerou, MD, and Deborah Howell, APRN, CNP, two Primary Care providers, to their staff at the Fox Road Rural Health Clinic. Both Kalogerou and Howell practice in Van Wert, most recently through Parkview Physicians group.

Dr. Kalogerou, who is Board Certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, has over 30 years of experience, having served the Northwest Ohio area since 1992. He graduated from medical school at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, in Little Rock, Arkansas. He then completed an internship and residency through Case Western Reserve University, at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio. “We look forward to continuing to help our patients stay well, manage chronic conditions, and prevent disease,” shared Dr. Kalogerou.  “We are especially pleased to join the competent and compassionate team of physicians and advanced practitioners at Van Wert Health.”  

Deborah Howell, a certified member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the Ohio Association of Advanced Practice Nurses, earned her Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing at Indiana State University, followed by a Master’s of Science in Nursing at Frontier Nursing University, in Hyden Kentucky.

“Dr. Kalogerou and Deb’s many years of experience, combined with their clinical skills are exceptional,” said Todd Duff, Vice President of Physician and Ambulatory Services. “Both of them provide a great blend of top-notch clinical care along with a strong passion for providing community-based care.”

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kalogerou or Deb Howell, CNP, please call 419-232-2077.  They will begin seeing patients on Thursday, April 8.  Patients may also call Dr. Kalogerou and Deb Howell’s former office number at 419-238-7777, beginning April 8, when the phone number will be transferred over to Van Wert Health. 

The Fox Road Rural Health Clinic, part of Van Wert Health, is located in Suite 201 of the Van Wert Health Center, located at 140 Fox Road, Van Wert, Ohio.

ST ANTHONY ROAD IMPROVEMENTS
BETWEEN BURKETTSVILLE ST HENRY & ERASTUS DURBIN ROADS

Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart announced today, contingent upon weather conditions, Shinn Brothers, Inc. plan to start construction work late in the week of January 18, 2021 on a 3 mile section of St. Anthony Road from Burkettsville St. Henry Road to Erastus Durbin Road. 

The improvements involve shoulder widening and sub-surface drainage improvements.  The road will have daily road closures to through traffic for 6-8 weeks, weather depending and local access will be maintained.  The completion deadline for the project is mid-fall 2021.

Right-of-way stakes and construction staking will be placed and need to remain for the duration of the project.

Our office is available to try to answer any questions you may have about the project. 

The contact information for the Mercer County Engineer’s Office is:

4884 Mud Pike, Celina 45822

Phone: 419.586.7759

Email: engineer@mercercountyohio.org 

 
March 26-28, 2021
 

MERCER COUNTY ENGINEER DITCH MAINTENANCE ACTIVITIES

Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart is announcing that over the upcoming construction season that engineer inspection and maintenance personnel will be on-site on many of the 111 miles of Mercer County maintained open drainage ditches and 62 miles of tile throughout Mercer County.

Easements exist along specific drainage infrastructure attributes that allow the necessary evaluation and maintenance of these important drainage elements.  Such things as ditch inspection, spraying for noxious weeds and erosion repairs will occur throughout the year.  “Many people may think that a ditch or tile is solely on private property, but all of Mercer County’s ditch and tile maintenance infrastructure attributes have a maintenance easement on and around the drainage feature.  A fraction of the open ditches and tile in the unincorporated areas are on county maintenance.”  Wiechart stated.

Mercer Landmark Employee, Monty Heiby, Receives Patriotic Employer Award from U.S. Office of Secretary Defense (OSD)

On Friday, February 5th, 2021, Monty Heiby, Branch Manager at Mercer Landmark’s new Elgin facility, was presented with the Patriotic Employer Award from the U.S. Office of Secretary Defense. This prestigious award is one that is not often given out and is recognized as the highest U.S. government honor to employers for support of National Guard and Reserve employees.

The Patriotic Employer Award is one that is carefully selected by officers and awarded to an individual who contributes to National Security and Protecting our Nation’s Liberty and Freedom. Heiby was recognized for supporting his employee participating in America’s National Guard and Reserve Force and playing a critical role in the success of our country and National Defense strategy. The award showcases Heiby’s outstanding commitment to his Guard and Reserve employees, his patriotism and his contributions to the defense and security of our Nation.

Out of thousands of nominations for this prestigious award, only a handful of recipients are chosen with the honor of receiving the Patriotic Employer Award. Heiby was nominated for the award by Mercer Landmark employee, Garth Louth, who is currently serving in the Army Reserve as a Combat Engineer – a significant position and important role to our national defense. Louth has been employed by Mercer Landmark since 2012.

The award was presented to Heiby by Mercer Landmark employee, Garth Louth – Army Reserve, and U.S. Army Retired Master Sergeant Alvie Louth. Heath Barnes, CEO of Mercer Landmark, was also present for the presentation of the award.

Heiby has worked for Mercer Landmark for 30 years.

When asked why he chose to nominate Heiby for the award, Louth stated, “Monty has always been a good, understanding and supportive boss – something you won’t always find at other businesses when making the decision to join the military and defend your country. Monty has been supportive throughout the entire process and is always willing to do what it takes on Mercer Landmark’s end to make things work.”

Mercer Landmark’s Contribution to Agriculture in the Community

During the award presentation, Mercer Landmark was recognized for playing a key role in the national defense by getting products to and from individual farms and out to the supply chains that feed and support the world. The organization was also acknowledged for meeting exceptional milestones as they continue to invest in their employees, communities and open new facilities throughout Ohio.

By supporting their soldier in his decision to fight for his country, Mercer Landmark also supports the National Defense.

About Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR)

ESGR is a Department of Defense program that develops and promotes supportive work environments for Service members in the Reserve Components through outreach, recognition, and educational opportunities that increase awareness of applicable laws. It also aids in resolving conflicts between Service members and their employers. You can learn more about ESGR and the Patriotic Employer Award on their website at https://www.esgr.mil/Employer-Awards/Patriot-Award.

Brand It Marketing Receives First Place Recognition from National Agri-Marketing Association Rockford, OH (released February 10th, 2021).

Ohio marketing agency, Brand It Marketing, has received another first place award for BEST OF Region VI through the National Agri‐Marketing Association (NAMA). The Region VI first place award is for the work they produced for their client, Advanced Biological Marketing (ABM), in the three‐dimensional Direct Mail for dealers, distributors, sales reps or others serving agribusiness category. Award‐Winning “Party in a Box” Brings Celebration to Customers The award‐winning “Party in a Box” direct mail piece was developed – from concept to production to distribution – by the creative team at Brand It Marketing for their client, ABM, which was celebrating their 20th anniversary of being in business when the COVID‐19 pandemic hit. Due to COVID regulations, ABM was unable to celebrate their 20th anniversary in‐person with employees, customers and friends. The Brand It Marketing team developed the unique and exciting concept of a “Party in a Box” – filled with all things fun and relevant to help celebrate their client’s milestone anniversary. The box was filled with everything from branded hats to confetti poppers to peanuts straight from Georgia using ABM’s own highly sought‐after product. Paired with each item in the box was a handwritten message from ABM’s CEO, which had significant and heartfelt meaning, aiding in the celebrating of 20 years. “This project gave us the opportunity to help a client of ours connect and bring extra joy to their own clients in 2020 – which felt like quite the blessing given the circumstances. ”‐ Twyla Hayes, Co‐Founder and Creative Director at Brand It Marketing. Honoring the Best in Agricultural Marketing Communications The “BEST of NAMA” honors and awards the best of the best in agricultural marketing communications. All submissions to NAMA are evaluated for agricultural marketing effectiveness and creativity and are hand‐selected by a panel of roughly 50 industry experts. The BEST OF NAMA competition originated in 1988 to honor outstanding work by NAMA members, while educating members of the agriculture industry and featuring top‐of‐the‐line advertising. These awards have helped to raise the quality of the agricultural industry’s overall communication efforts throughout the years. Brand It Marketing will advance to compete at the National level for this award.  

 
March 18-25, 2021
 

PEA Offering Education Scholarship

The Parkway Education Association (PEA) will be offering a $1000 scholarship to a Parkway alumnus that is in college/university studying to become an educator.  Requirements for the scholarship are:

1)  Applicants must be enrolled as a full-time college sophomore, junior, or senior for the upcoming fall semester (2021).

2)  Applicant must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher

3)  Applicant must be enrolled in teacher education classes.  

4)  Applicant must be a graduate of Parkway High School or be the son/daughter of a PEA member.

5)  Applications are due by March 31, 2021.

Any interested applicants should complete the form at: https://forms.gle/6XpDXv9bZS65tVE57

Any inquiries can be e-mailed to parkwayeducationassociation@gmail.com .

Prepare Protect Peace – Human Trafficking Outreach Event Coming

In the past, New Horizons Community Church held an event about human trafficking. We are excited to announce an Outreach Event to take place on Saturday, March 27th from 12:00 - 4:00. This outreach is for anyone ages high school freshman through age 24. We will have presenters education about human trafficking, situational awareness, and teach hands-on self defense. Limited space is available. To sign-up for this FREE event please call the church office at 419-363-2064 or email office@nhccrockford.com

Special Meeting Called of Parkway School Board
submitted by Sally Cox

The Parkway Local School Board has called a special meeting for Monday, March 29 at 6:30 p.m. in the community room.  The purpose of the meeting will be to go into executive session to discuss the appointment or evaluation of personnel.  No business will be conducted after the executive session.

Bridge to Close in Liberty Township
The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Oregon Road between Township Line Road and Erastus Durbin Road in Liberty Township for a culvert replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on March 30, 2021 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 2-3 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

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

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – March 25, 2021

By Kristi Fryman

CELINA- As of March 25, 2021, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 3,928 confirmed cases, 736 probable cases, 3,791 recovered cases, 0 hospitalizations, 84 COVID-19 deaths, and 19 probable deaths of COVID-19. There have been 34 confirmed cases that have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19. Currently, there are 16 known active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County. 

Today, Mercer County was upgraded to a level 2 on the Ohio Public Health Advisory System issued by the Ohio Department of Health because our two-week new case incidence rate increased slightly to 51 cases per 100,000 population.  This is just above the level 2 threshold of 50 cases per 100,000 population. The MCHD encourages as many residents as possible to get vaccinated and take other routine precautions to prevent a significant resurgence in COVID-19 activity in our area.

The MCHD will not be offering a first dose vaccination clinic next week due to the Easter Holiday weekend. Only second doses will be administered on Wednesday, March 31. The next first dose clinic will be offered on Wednesday, April 7. Further information on that clinic will be released next week.

Allen County Public Health (ACPH) will begin holding mass COVID-19 vaccine clinics next Wednesday, March 31.  These clinics will be held Wednesday through Saturday each week and will provide the single-dose Johnson & Johnson/Janssen vaccine. Appointments can be made for anyone 18 years old and older using the state scheduling tool found at https://gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov/.

Van Wert County General Health District reports
by Britt Menchhofer
On March 25, 2021, the Van Wert County General Health District reports an additional death of a resident of Van Wert County who tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total number of deaths for county residents to 54.  The Van Wert County General Health District would like to express our deepest sympathies for the family and friends of the deceased.  The age range of the deceased is 60-69 years.  The health department reports an increase of 8 confirmed cases of COVID-19 since Thursday, March 18, 2021 for a total of 2274 confirmed cases.  We have no know hospitalizations at this time.  To date the health department has given 8,317  COVID-19 vaccinations.  The next walk-in vaccination clinic is March 31, 2021 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm at Lifehouse Church.  Moderna vaccine will be available that day for all those age 18 and above.  The health department is not making appointments at this time, as all clinics are walk-in only.  The public can also contact Family Healthcare of Northwest Ohio at 419-238-6747 and Van Wert Family Physicians at 419-238-6251 to schedule an appointment.   

Rockford Ohio Chamber of Commerce to host Spring Festival on May 1, 2021
Marcia Ripley will be honored at a Retirement Party


(Rockford, OH - March 22, 2021) The Main Street Rockford committee through the Rockford Ohio Chamber of
Commerce has been developing a community event, SpringFest which is slated to take place Saturday May 1, 2021
from 9:00 am- 4:00 pm. This event will provide opportunities to bring awareness to businesses offerings, specials,
discounts and activities while also providing entertainment and recreational opportunities for the Rockford
community at large.
 

SpringFest activities include a book sale and a Mother’s Day craft at the Rockford Carnegie Library, wood-grain art
show located inside of Ohio’s Edge Realty, the Rockford Museum will be open to the public and bicentennial
souvenirs will be available to purchase, free petting zoo, open house at the Fire Department, a business decorating
contest, and an open-air vendor market will return. Music and entertainment will be available at Second Crossing
Brew Co. Activities and events are continually being added and community members are encouraged to follow the
Rockford Ohio Chamber of Commerce on Facebook at fb.com/rcoc.

Businesses are also encouraged to participate in this event by creating special discounts, sales, drinks, sandwiches,
doing giveaways, raffling off products, etc or also by participating in co-sponsoring an event to help reduce costs. To
make a donation, become a sponsor or get involved, please contact Lisa Kuhn at lisa.kuhn@rockfordohio.org or
Marie Miller at marie@themarketingjunkie.com with questions. Angela Heck at Rockford Carry Out & Catering is
the point of contact for all vendor market needs. You can find her contact information on the vendor forms.
 

A special retirement party will be held for Marcia Ripley of Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home the same day from 1:00 -
3:00 PM. Event details are forthcoming. Community members are invited to stop by and celebrate Ripley’s
retirement and provide well wishes.

 

Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

Youth groups to collect litter

Motorists are asked to use caution in the next few months as youth community groups will be picking up litter in the ditches along many Mercer County Roads.

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart issued the warning recently to protect the various groups of people who will be participating in the Litter Pick-up Program this spring.  “Clean-up crews are set to begin work in late March and typically complete the project by late spring,” Wiechart said. 

The litter pick-up program is a joint project funded by the County Engineer’s Office and Township Trustees who pay recognized civic and community groups who participate.  Safety vests, gloves, bags and disposal fees are funded by the Mercer County Solid Waste District and the Ohio EPA.

Hopkins Attains National Advocate Credential

CELINA – Erin Hopkins, Victims Advocate for Family Crisis Network, successfully completed renewal of certification as a Credential Advocate (CA) for victims of crime. CA certification is awarded by the National Organization for Victim Assistance (NOVA) to professionals who demonstrate a dedication to serve populations victimized by crime, and can provide documentation of personal experience and training related to best practices in the field. These credentials are reviewed every two years. Renewal of the NOVA credential validates Hopkins’ on-going commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of victims and survivors of crime.

Hopkins joined Our Home Family Resource Center’s Family Crisis Network team in July 2016 and serves as both victims advocate and domestic violence shelter monitor.  She is a graduate of Wright State University with a Bachelor of Science degree.  She has also certified through Ohio Advocate Network (OAN) as a Registered Advocate (RA). Hopkins lives in Celina with her husband and children.

Our Home Family Resource Center is a non-profit agency which serves the Mercer County community.  Among its services are advocacy, shelter, and support for victims of domestic violence; emergency financial assistance and food pantry services for income-eligible families; and supervised visitation services to enable non-custodial parents to spend time with their children. Learn more about Our Home at www.ourhomefrc.com 

 
March 16-17, 2021
Happy St. Patrick's Day!
 

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

Parkway Schools are on a
2 hour delay due to fog
for Wednesday, March 17, 2021

Parkway Preschool 2021 - 2022

The Parkway School Public Preschool program is in its 30th year and is now accepting applications for the 21-22 preschool.  This program is supported by a grant from the Ohio Department of Education and is part of the overall Parkway Local Schools education system.  Each class employs a certified teacher and classroom aide. 

To complete a registration form, please go to our website at www.parkwayschools.org and click on Schools, then Preschool.  Here is where you will find our online preschool registration form.

Once the registration is received, a $25 fee (check payable to Parkway Preschool or cash) will be needed to complete your child's registration and receive the necessary forms to finalize enrollment.  Until the registration is paid, your enrollment is NOT locked in.  Once the registration fee is paid, you will be emailed the other required forms that may be completed online.  Certified birth certificate, immunizations and social security card copies will also need to be turned in before school begins in the fall.

Students who are currently enrolled in preschool for the 2020 - 2021 school year must also submit an application and pay the $25 registration fee for the 2021-2022 school year.

Our grant program offers financial assistance for those who qualify. Limited grant money is available for the 2021-2022 school year.   Free or reduced tuition can only be awarded to students who will be 4 years of age by August 1, 2021.  

We also offer a preschool classroom in conjunction with The Mercer County Educational Service Center. The Ohio Department of Education allows us to have eight children with special needs in the AM and PM and eight typical children in the AM and PM sessions, making a total of 16 children per session. Our preschool classrooms are in session four half days, Monday through Thursday. 

If you have further questions, please call Michelle Tribolet at 419-363-3045 ext. 720. 

Parkway Elementary Kindergarten Registration

Parkway Elementary is currently taking registration for 2021-2022 Kindergarten students.  Students need to be five years old before August 1 to be eligible to attend.  Parents or guardians requesting open enrollment for their kindergarten student to Parkway Local Schools should also register at this time.

If your child is new to Parkway Local Schools, we will need the following brought to the school after your child has been registered: the official birth certificate, social security card, immunization records, one form of proof of residency and any court documents pertaining to the custody/guardianship of the student (divorce, foster, etc.)  The birth certificate is from the Department of Vital Statistics (if born in Ohio, from any Ohio county health department) where a fee will be charged.  The hospital complimentary birth certificate will not be accepted.  

Immunizations are required to be documented by the 15th day of school for the 2021-2022 school year.  All students entering kindergarten in the fall will need to be registered no later than April 20.  A screening will be done at a later date. Please call Michelle in the elementary office at 419-363-3045 ext. 720 to register.

Rockford -  Shanes Park Easter Egg Hunt

Saturday - April 3rd - 1 pm

Bring your own basket

Age Groups up to 10

Easter Bunny will hand out eggs to 3 and under.

Sponsored by Shanes Park Board

Statewide Tornado Drill is March 24, 2021 at 9:50 AM

Calvary Evangelical Church

Man Arrested for Importuning
Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey today announced the arrest of 60 year old Kevin Joseph Fullenkamp of 2240 Burkettsville – St. Henry Road, St. Henry, Ohio.   Grey advised that his office was contacted on February 16th, 2021 by a detective from the Newbury Police Department in Newbury, Massachusetts.  The detective stated that he was a member of the ICAC team (Internet Crimes Against Children).

The ICAC Team had be receiving communications from Fullenkamp since November.  Fullenkamp believed that he was communicating with a 13 year old girl including sending sexually explicit photos. Fullenkamp engaged in sexually explicit conversations with the ICAC Detective whom Fullenkamp believed to be the 13 year old girl.  Fullenkamp indicated that he wished to meet her in person.

Mercer County Sheriff Detectives then opened an investigation and information was shared between the ICAC detective and Mercer County.  After gathering the information Mercer County detectives consulted with the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office.  After review, the Prosecutor’s Office prepared charges.

Fullenkamp was arrested this morning and booked into the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility on charges of Importuning a Felony of the fifth degree and Disseminating Matter Harmful to Juveniles also a Felony of the fifth degree.  Bond has been set at $50,000.00 subject to 10% by Celina Municipal Court Judge Kathryn Speelman. 

The detectives also applied for and received a search warrant for Fullenkamp’s residence.  The search warrant was executed after the arrest this morning and several items of evidence were recovered.

Bridge to Close
The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Fast Road between Hoenie Road and US 127 in Hopewell Township for a culvert replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on March 17, 2021 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 2 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

News Release for Farm Focus Inc. Scholarship

Farm Focus Inc. was founded in 1974 to promote agriculture in Van Wert

County and the surrounding area. It is their continued mission to assist Van Wert

County students through a scholarship program that will enable them to pursue a

degree in an agricultural related field.
                                                                                   

Farm Focus Inc. is offering a minimum of three scholarships ranging from $500 to $1,000 to high school seniors interested in majoring in an Agricultural related program at a university, college, or technical school.

In addition to seniors, full time students already enrolled in an undergraduate program

in agriculture are also eligible to apply. This also means that a successful applicant  

from previous years can reapply again this year.

The applicant must be a Van Wert County resident. Minimum grade point is 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Scholarship funds will be submitted directly to the educational institution by Farm Focus Inc. upon receipt of proof of enrollment or a copy of a tuition invoice.

 

Scholarship applications have been sent to all nine area high schools where Van Wert

County students may be enrolled, so please contact your High School Guidance

Counselor, or FFA Instructor for your scholarship application. 

 

 The application is available at the OSU Van Wert County Extension office at 1055 South Washington Street, Van Wert OH 45891, or email; FarmFocusScholarship@gmail.com .   Scholarship application is in a PDF file format and can be emailed or put on a jump drive. Questions should be emailed.

All completed applications must be emailed, mailed and postmarked or delivered in person no later than April 9,2021 to the OSU Van Wert County Extension Office.

 
March 14-15, 2021
 

Executive Session to be Held
The Parkway Local Schools Board of Education will hold a Special Meeting on Monday, March 15, 2021 at 6:30 p.m.  in the Community Room.  The purpose of the meeting will be to go into executive session.  No business will be acted upon after the executive session.  

Daylight Saving Time begins on Sunday, March 14, 2021, at 2:00 A.M.  
On Saturday evening, our clocks need to “spring forward” one hour.

Van Wert Health to Lift Some Visitor Restrictions

Van Wert, OH – Van Wert Health, which first implemented visitor restrictions in March 2020 to help control the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses, today announced it will begin to lift some of those restrictions.  The new visitation guidelines detailed below go into effect Friday, February 26.

Visiting hours are daily from 8 AM - 7 PM.

Pediatric Inpatient
Two healthy adult primary caregivers may accompany pediatric patients. Caregivers are invited to stay in a patient's room for the entire duration of a patient's stay.

Adult Inpatient

One healthy visitor, age 18 or older, at a time may accompany each adult inpatient during visiting hours (8 AM - 7 PM).  No visitors are allowed for adult patients who have tested positive for COVID-19 or are being evaluated for COVID-19.

Adult Emergency Services
Two healthy visitors at a time may accompany each adult patient.  No visitors are allowed for patients who have tested positive for or are being evaluated for COVID-19.

Pediatric Emergency Services

Two healthy visitors at a time may accompany each pediatric patient. Siblings under age 18 are not permitted at this time.

Labor and Delivery
Mothers laboring and delivering may have a support person throughout their stay, who is invited for the entire duration of a patient's stay.  One additional healthy adult visitor, age 18 or older, at a time may be present during visiting hours (8 AM - 7 PM).

Surgery and Procedures
One healthy visitor, age 18 or older, is allowed to accompany each adult patient to a procedure or same-day surgery.

Two adult primary caregivers may accompany each pediatric patient to an outpatient procedure or surgery.

All Patients at End of Life
Patients who are nearing end of life may have additional visitors present.

Pastoral Care
Pastoral visits and clergy support from a patient’s own faith community are always welcome and will not “count” toward a patient’s approved visitors for the day.

As Van Wert Health begins this phased approach, we continue to support proper social distancing and masking guidelines.  For more information about the added measures Van Wert Health is taking to ensure the safety of its patients, visitors, and staff members, please visit: vanwerthealth.org/patients-visitors/visiting-guidelines

St. Paul’s UCC reopens with Doug Rich

St. Paul’s UCC of Rockford, Ohio welcomed Doug Rich to the pulpit on March 7th as the congregation returned to worship. Doug filled the sanctuary with a meaningful message drawing attention to a very specific part of the Lord’s Prayer, the word “as.” Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors. He went on to explain that we must forgive to be forgiven. In God’s eyes, all sin is equal and God will measure us like we measure others. Sin is a slippery slope but God’s word ensures us that we are not alone. God’s love is not conditional. God can’t stand sin but he also cannot stand being separated from his children. Doug reminded the parishioners that we have seen dark times but the church is the light and light is stronger in the darkness. He offered a reminder that it is not our job to judge or condemn but we must forgive. Members of St. Paul's UCC, 1538 Oregon Rd, Rockford, OH invite the community to worship on Sunday mornings at 10 AM with them.

Mercer County Ohio Genealogical Society to host Local author
The Mercer County Ohio Genealogical Society will meet Sunday, April 11 at 2 pm at the Richardson-Bretz Building, located at 119 West  Fulton Street, Celina, OH.

Our speaker for this meeting will be John Eric Vining, a local author, speaker and historian from the Wren, Ohio area.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, seating is limited to 30 attendees for this event.  Social distancing will be maintained in the seating layout. Masks are required of those attending. 

The meeting is free and open to the public.

Van Wert Health Announces Scholarship Program

Van Wert, OH – Van Wert Health is pleased to announce a scholarship opportunity for 2021 graduating high school students.  The Medical and Healthcare Scholarship Program was founded to support the growth and development of students from all sectors of the human healthcare industry.

“We are honored to offer this scholarship again this year, which reflects the importance of supporting the education of our future healthcare professionals,” said Jim Pope, President and CEO of Van Wert Health. “We have been reminded how vital healthcare workers are to our community over the past year.  These scholarships will be meaningful to the individuals who have made the thoughtful decision to dedicate their lives to the healthcare profession and caring for others.”

The Van Wert Health Medical and Healthcare Scholarship awards $1,000 to five graduating high school seniors, to be used towards the expenses of tuition, books, and other fees for healthcare related post-secondary education. The scholarship is renewable for $1,000 per year, up to 4 years.

Applications are due April 19, 2021. Printed copies of the application are available at all local high schools or available online at vanwerthealth.org/scholarship. Applicants with questions are encouraged to reach out to their school counselor or Van Wert Health’s Community Relations Department at 419-238-8623.

FEEL GOOD FRIDAYS AT FOUNTAIN PARK BAND ROSTER

JUNE 4 - THE SWON BROTHERS: This country duo has been thrilling audiences long before their appearance as finalists on NBC’s The Voice and have released a repertoire of amazing songs since, including their Top 15 HIT, “Later On,” from their self-titled major-label debut. They’ve played for hundreds of thousands of fans as part of Carrie Underwood’s Storyteller Tour and Brad Paisley’s Country Nation World Tour, as well as their own headlining shows.

JUNE 11 - RUMOURS: A FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE: Rumours' lead singer Mekenzie Jackson was bewitched by the music of Fleetwood Mac at a young age. She can duplicate the iconic lead singer Stevie Nick's voice so well that she and Rumours effortlessly transport audiences to the height of Fleetwood Mac’s amazing success. The sensational voices of Rumours accomplished musicians recreate the signature harmonies; and along with their expert instrumentation, stage moves and wardrobe, replicate those magical moments in music history that Fleetwood Mac fans cherish and can now relive again and again.

JUNE 18 - THE VAN DELLS: The Van-Dells are a masterful musical tribute to the ’50s and ’60s. The show begins in the ’50s. Dressed in letter sweaters, The Van-Dells hit the stage running with songs like At The Hop and Morse Code of Love, along with Doo-Wop favorites, and never slow down. The non-stop show continues with “Glitter and Gold” that made the 1960's famous. The audience will be taken on a nostalgic trip through time reliving the magical era. The Van-Dells have been called “The 3 Stooges set to music”.

JUNE 25 - FAREWELL ANGELINA: Farewell Angelina is an all-female country group with powerhouse vocalists, dynamic songwriters, and accomplished multi-instrumentalists. Their stellar blend of heart-stopping harmonies over blazing double violins and guitars has earned soaring praise across the board. Roughstock calls them a "Superstar Act... with Killer Songs." Rolling Stone says, "Wickedly smart songwriting delivered with a healthy dash of sass... deft playing... into one sonic knockout punch." They've been named among Rolling Stone's "New Artists You Need To Know," and Roughstock's "Ones to Watch" with a tour schedule to prove it. The girls have opened shows for the likes of Kenny Chesney, Old Dominion, Frankie Ballard, Jake Owen, Billy Currington, Maroon 5, and Trace Adkins, to name a few.

JULY 2 - PEACHERINE RAGTIME SOCIETY ORCHESTRA: The Peacherine Ragtime Society Orchestra is the leading professional ragtime orchestra in the United States. Under the direction of virtuoso Andrew Greene, PRSO recreates the syncopated stylings of a bygone era - Ragtime, Theater, and Dance music using an immense archive of over 15,000 original orchestral scores. The patriotic concert program will also include the music of the late 1800s and early 1900s, with selections by composers such as Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, W.C. Handy, Eubie Blake, George M. Cohan, and of course, the King of Ragtime, Scott Joplin.

JULY 9 - SHINING STAR: Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute: This timeless musical recreation of Earth, Wind & Fire's music and the show is based on the '70s thru '80s, the peak time of Earth, Wind & Fire's magical career, and the highly acclaimed live recordings of their concerts.  This show's playlist has been hailed as the definitive collection of Earth, Wind & Fire's top-charting hits, and includes best-loved songs such as After The Love Is Gone, Sing A Song, September, Got To Get You Into My Life, their namesake Shining Star, along with disco tracks, Boogie Wonderland, and Let's Groove Tonight.  This show is the closest and ONLY production to embody the aura, costuming, moves, and vocalization styles of this supergroup.  The magic, the versatility, the vocals, the essence, the songs, the energy, the horns, and the spirit.
 

JULY 16 - WALDEN: Hailing from Athens, Georgia, Walden emerged as the city’s newest rock sound. The band quickly captured the college town’s attention. Walden has burst onto the scene with many major festival appearances across the nation. These four young men quickly become one of the biggest upcoming musical acts in the southeast, capturing the attention of audiences of all ages with their raw sound, infectious energy, and the undeniable connection they share on stage. Comprised of Richard Becker (vocals/guitar), Jamie de Lange (bass), Eric Hangartner, (vocals/piano), and Andrew Mendel (drums) the quartet has remained just that ever since. While each shares a dream of traveling the world creating music, they are drawn together by a common understanding to navigate through the perpetual noise that pervades everyday life in search of something else - something of true purpose and meaning - a sense of truly feeling alive.

JULY 23 - THAT ARENA ROCK SHOW: That Arena Rock Show is the ultimate high energy tribute to "Classic" Rock N' Roll . . . Performing legendary rock anthems that ruled the airwaves in the 70s and 80s that include artists, Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, AC/DC, Bon Jovi, Guns N Roses, and more.  This show takes a trip back in time, turning Fountain Park into an arena for a night!  Get your lighters out and your fist in the air.  This rock show is more than just music - it’s an experience!  "These guys are so great at recapturing the excitement of the greatest arena rock shows of all time that they will make every hair on your body stand on end; even those you may have lost!  Now THAT is powerful!”  
 

JULY 30 - HEART BY HEART Steve Fossen and Michael Derosier, bassist and drummer for the band Heart during the 70s and early 80s, are now touring as Heart By Heart. "Our mission is to perform the classic Heart music as faithfully as we can," Fossen says. The band features vocalist Somar Macek, guitarist/keyboardist/vocalist Lizzy Daymont and guitarist Chad Quist. Heart By Heart presents a powerful, dynamic show that includes all the favorite Heart hits as well as deep album cuts that fans will love. Fossen and Derosier are the powerful driving engine behind Heart's classic hits like Barracuda, Straight On, Crazy On You, Magic Man, Even It Up, Dog & Butterfly, Heartless, Kick It Out, and more. First formed by Steve Fossen in 1969, Heart went on to release six top-10 albums and landed 20 hit singles on the Billboard top 40 charts. In recognition of their contributions to these iconic recordings, and to Heart’s first seven years of national and international touring, Fossen and Derosier were inducted into The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with the rest of the original Heart lineup in 2013.
 

AUGUST 6 - BUILDING 429 GRAMMY®-nominated band Building 429 - comprised of Jason Roy, Michael Anderson, Jesse Garcia, and Aaron Branch - is one of Christian music’s top artists with high-energy live shows, lyrically-driven, anthemic songs, and a consistent message of hope through Christ. Known for writing songs about big faith showing up in everyday moments, Building 429’s dynamic new single, “Fear No More,” encourages the listener to hold fast to faith in the midst of life’s inevitable setbacks

Feel Good Friday Concerts begin at 7:30 PM and are a BYOC (Bring Your Own Chair) event. Blankets on the Fountain Park lawn work well too. Come early and hang out in downtown Van Wert before the concerts to shop and dine. Safety protocols will be announced prior to the first concert in coordination with the Van Wert Health Department. Find more information at vanwertlive.com.

 
March 12-13, 2021
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 16 years!
 

Springfest is being planned
for Sunday May 1, 2021
in Downtown Rockford.

More details to follow by Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
Plan now to join in the fun.

Prepare Protect Peace – Human Trafficking Outreach Event Coming

In the past, New Horizons Community Church held an event about human trafficking. We are excited to announce an Outreach Event to take place on Saturday, March 27th from 12:00 - 4:00. This outreach is for anyone ages high school freshman through age 24. We will have presenters education about human trafficking, situational awareness, and teach hands-on self defense. Limited space is available. To sign-up for this FREE event please call the church office at 419-363-2064 or email office@nhccrockford.com

Wednesday, March 17, MCHD COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic

Vaccine Type: Moderna

Time: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Location: Mercer County Fairgrounds

NEW REGISTRATION INFORMATION:

Individuals who are 50 years of age and older or who are otherwise eligible under Phase 1 or Phase 2 of the COVID-19 vaccination program can be vaccinated during this clinic.

Register online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mchd-covid-19-drive-thru-clinic-march-17-2021-tickets-145734693391

Online registration will open at 8:00 AM on Saturday, March 13.

Anyone unable to register online can make an appointment by calling 567-890-2619. Phone registration will be available from noon to 3:00 PM on Monday, March 15, and Tuesday, March 16.

 
March 1-11, 2021
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 16 years!
 

The Rockford Bicentennial Committee will meet on Monday, March 1 at 7:00pm in the Village Hall.  Attendees are urged to follow COVID guidelines.

Parkway March 2021 Printable Combined Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Van Wert County COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic Announcement

The next COVID-19 vaccination clinic will be Thursday, March 11, 2021 from 2:00 to 6:00 PM at the Van Wert County Council on Aging.  The clinic will be walk-in only and no appointments will be made.  The health department will have 200 Moderna and 200 Johnson & Johnson to distribute.  Each vaccine will be available until the supply is gone.  Only those age 60 and above or with other qualifying conditions or professions as listed below:

Ohioans born with or who have early childhood conditions that are carried into adulthood which put them at a higher risk for adverse outcomes due to COVID-19.

Sickle cell anemia.

Down syndrome.

Cystic fibrosis.

Muscular dystrophy.

Cerebral palsy.

Spina bifida.

People born with severe heart defects, requiring regular specialized medical care.

People with severe type 1 diabetes, who have been hospitalized for this in the past year.

Phenylketonuria (PKU), Tay-Sachs, and other rare, inherited metabolic disorders.

Epilepsy with continuing seizures; hydrocephaly; microcephaly, and other severe neurological disorders.

Turner syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, and other severe genetic disorders.

People with severe asthma, who have been hospitalized for this in the past year.

Alpha and beta thalassemia

Solid organ transplant candidates and recipients.

Adults/employees in K-12 schools

1C Medical Conditions

People with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. 

Bone marrow transplant recipients.

These are sometimes also called hematopoietic cell or stem cell transplants, and these patients are undergoing treatment primarily for cancer and certain anemias, and they face an increased risk of severe COVID-19 illness.

This group does NOT include the kind of stem-cell injections people might receive for the treatment of orthopedic problems, especially for their knees. 

People with type 1 diabetes.

Pregnant women.

Child care services: Staff members at child care centers and pre-kindergarten programs who have regular, ongoing direct contact with children enrolled in these programs.

Administrators, lead and assistant teachers, and substitute teachers enrolled in Ohio’s Professional Registry who are currently working in open child care or pre-kindergarten programs. 

Licensing specialists employed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services or a county job and family services agency. 

The program does NOT include parent volunteers, board members, or owners/administrators who do not provide in-classroom support.

Funeral services: This group includes licensed staff and active apprentices in the funeral services industry.

Embalmers/morticians.

Funeral home directors.

Crematory operators.

Apprentices.

Law enforcement and corrections officers:

Police officers.

Sheriff’s deputies.

Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers.

Special jurisdiction officers: Other state or federal enforcement officers such as Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) enforcement staff, pharmacy board investigators, BCI agents, state fire marshal investigators, federal transportation security officers, and other federal law enforcement officers who do not have access to vaccination from federal sources.

Corrections staff: Eligible are corrections staff, including probation and parole staff, who provide direct services to an adult or juvenile inmate or court-supervised individuals.

Firefighters: Individuals who have a valid active firefighting certificate in the State of Ohio who are active members or employees of a recognized fire department. This does not include retired, emeritus or reserve individuals.

Family Healthcare of Northwest Ohio is also distributing vaccine.  Please call Family Health Care to schedule an appointment at 419-238-6747.    

For more information in the future, please continue to monitor the Van Wert County Health Department website, www.vanwertcountyhealth.org as well as local news media and social media.       

The Parkway Board of Education meeting scheduled for Monday, March 8 at 6:30 p.m. will now be a public meeting instead of a virtual meeting.  Public will once again be allowed to attend in person, per Sally Cox.

Parkway School Board Agenda for a Regular Meeting 6:30
by Sally Cox

Calvary Evangelical Church Re-opens

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – March 9, 2021

CELINA- As of March 9, 2021, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 3,901 confirmed cases, 733 probable cases, 3,774 recovered cases, 0 pending cases, 3 hospitalizations, 81 COVID-19 deaths, and 19 probable deaths of COVID-19. There have been 27 confirmed cases who have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19. Currently, there are 17 known active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County. 

The COVID-19 vaccine clinic scheduled for tomorrow is fully booked. Further information for the clinic for next week will be released on Thursday, March 11.

The MCHD has been conducting our vaccine clinics since late December 2020 with our drive-thru operations beginning in Mid-January. The MCHD would like to express our gratitude and appreciation to our community, county, and state partners as well as our volunteers for their assistance with our clinics.

As a reminder, we will only be releasing updates on COVID-19 cases in Mercer County on Tuesdays and Thursdays until further notice. Our cases continue to decrease but we ask for our community to remain diligent in taking precautions to protect our most vulnerable friends and neighbors as they get vaccinated.

 
January 19, 2021 through March 10. 2021
The editor was hospitalized with COVID.
She is working below to get this updated with the past 6 weeks of news.
Her contact email is at the top of this page.
 

Umpire Classes
The Mid-west Buckeye Umpires' Association will  be hosting a training course for prospective baseball umpires interested in earning OHSAA certification for the upcoming 2021 season. Anyone ages 14+ is eligible to enroll in the class. Cost of the course is $135 - which includes all instructional materials, OHSAA membership fees, rule books, and annual MBUA membership. Classes will be held on Tuesday & Wednesday evenings from 6:00-9:00pm through March 20th. Due to COVID-19, much of the instruction will be presented virtually through Zoom Meetings. The first class will be held in-person at Van Wert HS on Wednesday, February 17th at 6:00pm. Course registration and payment can be completed online by visiting www.myohsaa.org and clicking on the "REGISTER" link at the top of the page. Once you have created a free account, click on "Select a Course" and search for "Baseball - Van Wert." For more information, contact Ryan Thompson at (419)305-0426.

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

Parkway Schools Delays during this time period.

Jan. 26, 2021 - no school - icy roads

Feb. 1 and 2 - no school - bad roads

Feb. 5 - no school 

Feb. 11 and 12 - both 2 hour delays

Feb. 15 and 16 - no school

Feb. 17 - 2 hour delay

Feb. 18 - no school

Feb. 19 - 2 hour delay

Feb. 22 - 3 hour delay

Mercer County Sheriff's Office Snowstorm Activity

Tuesday, February 2, 2021 at 5:48 AM

Advisory: Please use caution while driving in Mercer County. Roadways are icy with blowing and drifting snow.

Thursday, February 4, 2021 at 7:09 PM

Alert: Sheriff Grey has issued a level 1 snow alert for all of Mercer County. Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Use caution

Friday, February 5, 2021 at 5:06 AM

Alert: Mercer Co remains under a Level 1 snow alert. Roadways are icy with blowing and drifting snow.

Friday, February 5, 2021 at 7:33 AM

Alert: Level 1 snow emergency cancelled.

Wed, Feb 10 2021 5:12 PM

Alert: Please use caution while driving in Mercer County. Roadways are becoming icy with blowing and drifting snow.

Mon, Feb 15 2021 5:08 AM

Alert: Please use caution while driving in Mercer County. Roadways are snow covered and slick.

Mon, Feb 15 2021 4:03 PM

Alert: Sheriff Grey has issued a level 1 snow alert for all of Mercer County. Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Use caution.

Mon, Feb 15 2021 6:01 PM

Alert: Sheriff Grey has issued a level 2 snow alert for all of Mercer County. Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Use caution

Mon, Feb 15 2021 9:04 PM

Alert: Sheriff Grey has issued a Level 3 Snow Alert for Mercer County effective at 10pm.

Tue, Feb 16 2021 5:11 AM

Alert: Mercer County remains under a level 3 snow emergency. County and township roads are impassible. State routes have blowing and drifting snow

Tue, Feb 16 2021 6:16 AM

Alert: Mercer County government offices are closed today due to the weather & road conditions

Tue, Feb 16 2021 8:44 AM

Mercer Co Sheriff Jeff Grey will be downgrading to a Level 1 snow level as of 10am. Township Rd may be impassable but Co Rds and St Rtes are passable.

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

 
January 14-18, 2021
 

Parkway School Text Alerts

  Due to NOACSC’s Ohio Text Alerts not able to send to AT&T and Sprint
  Providers, the NOACSC has announced the end of OHIO Text Alerts by
  June 2021.
  We will now be migrating to a new Text Alert System called
  One Call Now. All Parents, Teachers, and Staff Members have been added
  to the new System.

  ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 15TH, AT 1:00, we will be
  sending a Phone, Email, and Text Alert with One Call Now. If you do
  not receive this alert, please go to our website under Parents>”One
  Call Now” Text Alerts and click on the Self Update Portal. You can
  then Sign up and edit your contact information to receive future Text
  Alerts from Parkway Local Schools. In the portal you can also add
  yourself to subgroups for sporting events and other extracurricular
  announcements.

COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution for Phase 1B Procedures

Click here for details:   https://mchdohio.org/health-services/2019-novel-coronavirus/ 

CELINA- The MCHD continues to plan for the COVID-19 vaccine distribution for the Phase 1B population and is announcing our procedures for future drive-thru clinics.

As a reminder, we are following the guidance provided by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH):

Beginning the week of January 18, people who are 80 years of age or older will be eligible to receive the vaccine.  At this time, the clinic that is scheduled for Wednesday, January 20, 2021 is fully booked. MCHD is no longer taking appointments for this clinic.

Beginning the week of January 25, people who are 75 years of age or older will be eligible to receive the vaccine.

Also beginning the week of January 25, those who have severe congenital, developmental, or early onset medical disorders will be eligible to receive the vaccine. Further information on how these individuals will be able to receive their vaccinations will be announced soon.

Beginning February 1, people who 70 years of age or older will be eligible to receive the vaccine.  School employees will also be eligible February 1.

Beginning February 8, people who are 65 years of age or older will be eligible to receive the vaccine.

According to the plan established by the Ohio Department of Health, people in each age group will become eligible to receive the vaccine on the dates above, regardless of whether everyone in the previous age group has been vaccinated.  Due to the limited supply of doses, it will take weeks to vaccinate everyone in Phase 1B.

At this time, we are planning on holding weekly COVID-19 vaccine clinics on Wednesdays at the Mercer County Fairgrounds. Individuals will be required to register online through Eventbrite or by calling the MCHD office at 567-890-2619. The MCHD will publicly announce related information each Monday. Registration will open at noon on Tuesdays, and MCHD staff will be available to assist with registration over the phone until 3:00 PM.  No appointments will be scheduled before noon on Tuesday.  Weekly vaccination clinics may be canceled due to inclement weather or insufficient supply of vaccine.

The MCHD appreciates the patience and cooperation from our community as we continue to navigate through this process. The MCHD office will be closed on Monday, January 18 in observance of Martin Luther King Day.

Mercer Health releases Vaccination Registration Details

Mercer Health is now taking registrations for the COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic which will be held next Thursday, January 21st and Friday, January 22nd.  Individuals who are 80 years of age or older are eligible for this Phase 1B distribution as a part of Ohio’s Vaccination Distribution Plan.   In addition, individuals must reside in the State of Ohio and Mercer County, unless the recipient is an established patient of Mercer Health.  For example, if the recipient resides in any Ohio county, such as Darke County, but are an established Mercer Health patient, the individual would be eligible.

Registration and additional information is available online at https://mercer-health.com/covid-19-coronavirus-information. Vaccine recipients will be asked to enter their name, date of birth, address and phone number. Anyone unable to register online can call 567-890-7188.  Registration will close when registered recipients are equivalent to current vaccine allotments.  There will be no waiting lists. A Mercer Health representative will call all registered recipients to confirm registration and finalize appointment details.   Individuals who do not meet criteria will not receive a phone call to confirm registration.

 General Hugh Mercer, for whom Mercer County was named. 

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

Photo caption.  Brigadier General Hugh Mercer, for whom Mercer County Ohio was named.  Credit:  from pencil drawing by Col. John Trumbull.

Between 1889 and 1791, John Trumbull traveled the eastern coast of the United States, drawing portraits of military heroes, to ensure the accuracy of the images of his series of Revolutionary War paintings. 

Mercer was born in Aberdeen, Scotland in 1725.  He was graduated in 1744 from the medical school at Aberdeen and became a surgeon’s mate in the army of Prince Charles Edward.  Mercer migrated to America in 1747.  Seeking  Scottish communities, Mercer settled in Pennsylvania.  In 1753, the Frontier settlements were concerned when the French tried to connect Canada with Louisiana by building a series of forts across the Ohio Valley.  In 1754, the French built Fort Duquesne, at the confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers.  In June 1755, British General Braddock with George Washington marched toward Fort Duquesne against the French.  On July 9, 1755, the force was within six miles of the Fort, when the French and Indians opened fire on them, from the woods, whereby General Braddock was mortally wounded.  Braddock’s men retreated to Fort Cumberland.  When Mercer heard of the attack, he took his medical supplies and traveled to Fort Cumberland to tend to the wounded. 

Mercer went on to serve as a Captain in the Pennsylvania Militia, where he met George Washington.  In November 1758, troops led by Colonels Washington and Bouquet reached Fort Duquesne, to see the Fort had been destroyed earlier.  They rebuilt the fort and renamed it Fort Pitt, and placed Hugh Mercer in Command. 

After the Boston Tea Party of December 16, 1773, Hugh Mercer was appointed Colonel of the Third Regiment.  On June 14, 1776, Mercer received his Commission from John Hancock, President of the Congress.  Brigadier General Mercer reported to Washington’s headquarters on July 3, 1776, the day before the signing of the Declaration of Independence.  Brigadier General Hugh Mercer’s final battle occurred at the Battle of Princeton, New Jersey, were he was mortally wounded and died January 12, 1777.

This history will be continued, with Mercer County, Ohio being named honoring General Hugh Mercer in 1820.

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

Second Quarter Parkway High School Honor Roll

SENIORS

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Avery Boroff, Kaden Boroff, Treya Conn, Remi' Fokine, Andrea Miller, Lydia Miller, Kelsey Nichols, Elijah Rich, Mackenzie Springer

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Breanna Beeks, Makena Boeckman, Alexzandra Cottmann, Grace Etgen, Brendan Etzcorn, Graham Farmer, Justan Felver, Savanna Freeman, Sierra Freeman, Hunter Gibson, Madalyn Heindel, Zoie Huffman, Dylan Hughes, Kayla Kuhn, Claire Langenkamp, Samantha Noll, Claire Rutledge, Makenna Schumm, Tyler Tinkham, Sydney Waters

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Addison Barna, Amanda Dull, Liam Ferroggiaro, Anthony Heck, Brayton Luginbill, Haydn Ridenour, McKayla Sites, Olivia Sutter, Ariana Valle

JUNIORS

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Grant Bollenbacher, Leah Eichler, Cami High, Danielle Huff, Faith Jacobs, Riley Samples, Benjamin Sheppard, Caden Slusher

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Molly Hileman, Raegan Roehm, Jacob Rogers, Gabriel Schaaf, Chantry Simon, Ashtyn Sipe, Blake Strickler, Avamaria Strunk, Gracyn Temple

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Aiden Anderson, Cora Barna, Bailey Berry, Camdyn Clay, Elise Darrigan, Zachary Hawk, Chase Heitkamp, Jaden Hileman, Paige Jackson, Aidan Morton, Cade Schoenleben, Briana Webb, Keaton Zizelman

SOPHOMORES

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Aaron Cron, Colin Fokine, Carter Hellwarth, Madison Jacobs, Jackson Kraner, Roman Leszinske, Corban Rich, Hutch Ridenour, Emily Schaefer, Derek Smith, Brooke Stephenson, Gabrielle Stober, Herminie Williams

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Aaliyah Baxter, Colby Bentz, Brenden Cottman, Gavin Dicke, Skyler Fokine, Trenton Garwood, Macy Johnson, Emiree Knittle, Edin Nichols, Bryant Scudder, Emree Sinning

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Taylor Gruss, Autumn Gilbreath, Caden Heindel, Allison Heitkamp, Allison Hughes, Morgan Hunter, Dakota Mullholand, Deegan Rager, Alison Rowen, Nevaeh Seals, Bryce Stearns, Jason Stienecker, Andrew Wagner, Jocie Waters, Alyxandra Yoder

FRESHMEN

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Alexis Berry, Breanna Berry, Ashley Jackson, Madison Louth, William Molloy, Tyler Rowen, Sarah Sheppard, Woodrow Tinkham, Tori Williams, Jacob Winget

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Ruby Bennett, Morgan Bollenbacher, Logan Green, Harli Grunden, Meg Henkle, Addisyn Hileman, Addysin Leighner, Landen May, Audrey Nichols, Lily Noll, Leona Ravine, Elijah Robertson, Trent Rollins, Abigail Sheets, Julia Sheets, Brittany Sites, Francesca Steinbrunner, Paige Stephenson, Apollo Thomas, Avery White

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Kirsten Detisch, Olivia Dicke, Aaron Hipply, Samara McDonald, Caleb Nusbaum, Casey Popp, Ellie Prichard, Emma Prichard, Fletcher Smith, Abbi Taylor, Kathryn Trisel, Paige Williamson

Bridge Inspection

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart announced recently that the yearly bridge inspections of Mercer County’s 378 bridges on township and county roads have been completed.  Engineer Wiechart and county engineer staff, T. J. Smalley and Aaron Moeller, completed the inspections before the end of 2020.

 “Bridge inspection is completed annually for several very important reasons.  First our bridge maintenance/work orders are generated directly from our yearly inspections.  Secondly, decisions on future bridge replacements/rehabilitations are made as a result of the condition ratings garnered from the inspection.  Third and most importantly, we inspect them to protect the public that uses them each day.”  In Ohio, the professionally licensed and elected County Engineer manages and oversees bridge inspections on township and county roadways.  Any questions, concerns about bridges may be directed to the engineer’s office.

Parkway Middle School Honor Roll for Second Quarter

5th Grade  

Highest Honor Roll

Lydia Eichler

Jaymin Peel

High Honor Roll

Trey Anderson

Jaxson Bollenbacher

Case Bransteter

Maria Buogo

Levon Fox

Kymberly Hess

Colin Ketchum

Branson Lyons

Mason Mathewson

Isaac Menchhofer

Trevor Minnich

Elayna Moeller

Ella Muhlenkamp

Peyton Muhlenkamp

Dylan Nuttle

Piper Pennell

Jonathan Petit

Chayse Rasbach

Albany Roth

Amelia Schmidt

Drayden Schumm

Perry Schwieterman

Carson Stauffer

KJae Stover

Cohen Suzuki

Cade Thomas

William Trisel

Tyson Twigg

Stella Vannette

Emma VanTrees

Obadiah Williams

Abigail Williamson

Addyson Yaney

5th Grade

Honor Roll

Tyler Bash

Uriah Byer

Makynlie Clay

Maleah Craig

Jensen Denney

Carter England

Sterling Garrity

Ellie Harner