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August 5-11, 2020 
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 16 years!
 

Aspire Announces Adult Readiness Education

Aspire announces new classes starting for adults looking to earn their GED or adults preparing additional education. Learn basic education skills, prepare for certification tests, get your Ohio High School Equivalent Diploma, increase employability skills, prepare to enter post-secondary education, and more.

Celina classes at the Celina Education Complex (585E. Livingston St.) begin on August 11, 2020 and run each  Tuesday and Thursday from 10 AM to Noon. There is a class instructor.

St. Marys Aspire is online only at the present.

Call 419-998-2965 for information or to enroll.

Schaffners Celebrate their 55^th Wedding Anniversary
Frances (Moose) and Sandy Schaffner of Rockford celebrated their 55^th wedding anniversary on Saturday, August 8, 2020.

They were married at the Rockford Presbyterian Church with Bill Copeland as best man and Eleanor Blubaugh as maid of honor.

They have 3 children: Deb VanMeter (Gary Coy) of Kokomo, IN; Mike (Ayuko) of Waldorf, Maryland; and Cary (Tiffany) of Rossford, OH. They are blessed with 8 grandchildren.

After

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ Plans Upcoming Outdoor Services for August

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH will continue their Sunday morning worship services at 10 A.M in an outdoor venue.

 

On August 16th, Pastor Doug Meyer, retired Lutheran Minister from Celina’s St. John's Lutheran (purple door) Church, will deliver the inspirational morning message entitled, “Orders Remain the Same.” For those who follow scripture lessons, please read Jonah 3:1-5; Acts 5:17-21 and Gospel Matthew 28:16-20.

On August 23rd delivering the message will be Columbus Police Officer, Jonathan Pabis (pictured above), a five year veteran  who will speak on his experiences on the inner city beat and how his Faith in God carries him through.

On August 30th, Homer Burnett – Manager of CALL Ministries in Celina will speak about their food pantry, meals, clothing, and other programming for the community.

Services are held outside under a big tent. Bring your own lawn chairs if you prefer. Some feel more comfortable sitting in their vehicles and listening. Social distancing and other rules are being followed to keep everyone safe. Plan now to join us. Everyone is welcome.

In case of rain, the sanctuary will be used, observing social distancing rules.

Please call Dave Taylor at 419-733-1155 for any questions regarding the reopening of worship services.

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

Sheriff Jeff Grey and Parkway Coach and Teacher Doug Hughes Speak at St. Paul’s UCC Recently

St. Paul's United Church of Christ welcomed two guest speakers on August 2nd and August 9th and listened to their Christian messages.  

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey, a favorite with the congregation, shared his message of hope for recovering drug addicts on August 2nd – Brianna’s Hope – A Better Life specifically.  As Sheriff Grey explained, Brianna was a teenage from Jay County Indiana, who had everything going for her. Young and pretty, an athlete, a popular teen who was a cheerleader and had many friends, including a church family and Christ in her life took a wrong turn in life’s road and tried Heroin. That lapse in judgment sent her on a spiral downward that led to her tragic death in 2014. Amongst her personal papers, her parents found a poem she had written, asking Christ to help and lead her in the path she was to follow. That poem ended up being the catalyst for the Brianna’s Hope – A Better Life, faith based drug program to help inmates in the local and county jails as well as a support chapter at the Grand Lake United Methodist Church's Pt. Paul's Campus. Skeptical at first, Sheriff Grey took a long hard look at the program offered by the late Brianna’s minister and decided to give it a try. It turns out that this program, using recovering and recovered drug addicts to work with the inmates, has had success where other programs have failed. 

Parkway Boys Basketball Coach and Learning Disabilities teacher, Doug Hughes, spoke on Sunday, August 9th at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ. Barb Baker introduced him and his family and told some interesting bits of information on his history and family, who all have backgrounds in basketball. Coach started out by discussing his tight-knit team of Juniors and Seniors at Parkway and how they grew from some tough beginning season losses as individuals on the team to becoming a group of young men who supported each other no matter what and learned to encourage each player’s growth. Paramount in all of this was learning that when the going gets tough and mistakes happen, a player must refocus on the game and  move on from the mistakes. Teenagers have to learn to think of others and not themselves – which is a steep learning curve to be a team and something bigger than themselves. Here is where Dr. Luginbill, AKA Brayton Luginbill, special needs Parkway Junior of Learning Disabilities teacher, Doug Hughes, enters the picture. Hughes had learned of Brayton as a youngest in the Challenger basketball program and as a manager in the Parkway Junir High Basketball program. Hughes became his work-study instructor at Parkway when he went to high school. “Brayton needs a routine. I helped him get established at Rockford Carry-Out and the Rockford Library in doing different weekly jobs in his Work-Study regimen. I approached his parents about him becoming our water bottle manager and practicing with the team, which was a big commitment for the family. They agreed, and Brayton never missed a practice or a game. He went from being shy on the bench to leading the team on to the floor shooting baskets with them. Once, a 30 second time out turned into a 3 minute time out because Brayton ”accidentally didn’t tighten a water bottle.” “Whoops!” was his good-natured comment from the bench! Brayton brought more to the team than they gave to him. He taught the boys to think of Brayton first, in many instances. The team ate luch with him and learned to communicate with him. Others before ourselves – Brayton solidifies this. The boys cared about him and cared about each other and so there was no fear when they were up against a tight score. The basketball team won 16 of their 36 games in the last two minutes.“ Coach Hughes stories were delightful and had the crowd chuckling. Afterwards, Brayton, who was in the audience, enjoyed some joking around and good-natured arm-punching with Coach and some players who were also in attendance.

 
August 1-4, 2020 
 

Parkway High School Releases Schedule Pick Up Dates

Students at Parkway High School may pick up their final class schedule, class supplies list, and purchase parking permits in the HS Office from 9:00 to 3:00 on the following dates:

     Monday, August 10 - Seniors 

     Tuesday, August 11 - Juniors

     Wednesday, August 12 - Sophomores 

     Thursday, August 13 - Freshmen

     Friday, August 14 - Any high school students

     Monday, August 17 - Friday, August 21 - Any high school students

Parking permit applications are available in the HS Office or on One View. Parking permits MUST be purchased prior to the first day of school, Monday, August 24. Students making class changed must complete a Course Change Request Form that is available in the HS Office or on the school website. Class supplies list is available in the HS Office and on the school website. If you have any questions, please contact the HS Office at 419-363-3045 x760. 

Mendon American Legion Post to Meet

Mendon American Legion Post #2019, will be holding a meeting on Tuesday evening Aug 11th, 2020 @ 6:30 p.m. at the Old Farm Store, on Main St. in Mendon.  Kent Long from the American Legion District 2 will be there to explain the different offices of each post.  Officers will then be elected by the membership.  This meeting is open to all current members of the Post and those area Veterans who wish to join as a new member or transfer.  Please come and join your local American Legion.  For more info, call Alvie Louth @ 419-733-2724.

Vantage Announces Orientation Dates

Vantage Career Center will hold New Student Orientation on Monday, August 10 and Tuesday, August 11. To reduce the amount of individuals in the building, please follow the dates and times of each individual program meeting:

MONDAY, AUGUST 10 

5:30 - 6:15pm: Auto Body, Auto Tech, Carpentry, Construction Equipment, & Industrial Mechanics

7:15 - 8:00pm: Ag & Industrial Power, Electricity, Precision Machining, & Welding.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 11

5:30 - 6:15pm: Early Childhood, Health Technology, Health Information Management, & Network Systems & Interactive Media

7:15 - 8:00pm: Criminal Justice, Cosmetology, Culinary Arts, Sports Exercise Science & Transition to Work Program

It is imperative that students attend only on their program specific date and time. A parent is encouraged to attend these meetings as well, however, due to Covid-19 restrictions, we are limiting each student to bring only one guest with them. Please abide by this rule as we are very limited on space. Everyone entering the building must have a facial mask on, per regulations.

At Orientation, new students will have an opportunity to meet teachers, put money on their lunch account, pay program fees, and pick up schedules. All program fees are $100 and are payable online through Pay Schools Central, or by cash or check at Orientation. Additional uniforms may be purchased at this meeting as well (cash or check only). Also, parents must fill out required beginning of the year forms using the Oneview parent portal which is online. Instructions for this process will be mailed/emailed to the student/parent.

            Returning Vantage students can obtain their class schedules and pay program fees between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on Monday, August 10th and Tuesday, August 11th. All program fees are $100 and are payable online through Pay Schools Central, or by cash or check in the high school office. Due to regulations, everyone entering the building must have a facial covering on. Students may enter the building through the high school office entrance, door #7, to pick up schedules. Also, parents of returning students must fill out required beginning of the year forms using the Oneview parent portal. Instructions for this process will be mailed/emailed to the student/parent. All returning students should wear their program uniforms the first week of school. Any student needing measured for new uniforms will be able to do so the first week of school.

If students/parents have bus transportation questions, please contact your local school district as they will provide all bus transportation for students coming to Vantage. Instructors will go over required supplies the first week of school.

Be sure to check out our website at vantagecareercenter.com, subscribe to Vantage Ohio Alerts, download the FREE Vantage App, and follow Vantage Career Center on social media for all the most up to date information! Looking forward to seeing you on the 10th and 11th!

Parents of Parkway 9th graders: Washington DC Trip email was sent through OneView and has been delayed. Please contact MS office on 8-4-2020 if not received.

Rockford History Snippets
by Mike Schumm of the Shanes Crossing Historical Society 

Did you know that in 1940, sixty Rockford businesses advertised in the Rockford Press Christmas edition? According to Census, the village population was 1,066 at the time.

The Rockford Bicentennial Committee is pleased to announce that a 10' x 70' mural that depicts early visitors to Shanesville (Rockford) has been completed and is hanging on the south side of the fire station. A special thanks to our muralist Dan Keyes for his outstanding creation!  Our appreciation goes out to:  Twyla Hayes for her inspiration to produce the mural and design the landscaping; to Harrison Frech for being a consultant and providing the historical background for the characters portrayed; to Mike Riley for all of his unending assistance and the storage of the mural; to Rob Russell, Kevin LaBrun, and Ted Samaniego for welding the frame; to Bob Maurer for building a wagon to haul the mural; to Chad Ransbottom for running electric and installing lights; to A & A Greenhouse for the wonderful landscaping to accent the mural;  to Larry Stephenson for providing the beautiful benches found in the landscaping; to Rob and Jordan Belna for supplying the equipment and the many, many hours of labor to help with the hanging of the mural; to Austin Barna for operating the equipment to raise the panels; to the many volunteers who helped to paint the wall and lift the panels on the wagon; to the many donors who helped to fund this project; and, finally, to the Rockford Fire Department for allowing us to utilize their building to display a visual history of Rockford's past.  This was truly a community effort and we are extremely grateful to all who made this dream become a reality!

Church Directory Updates on Openings and Services
for St. Paul's UCC and Rockford United Methodist

 
July 29-31, 2020 
 

The 2020 National and State plowing contest at Robert and Rozann Maurer’s Farm
The 2020 National and State plowing will be held on the Maurer farm on St Rt 707 on July 30, 31 and August 1 and 2. This is the first time the event will be held in Mercer County. There are plowmen from 10 different states registered. Admission is free. The location is 5981 St Rt 707, Mendon. It is one half mile from US 127. Practice is on Thursday the 30th, National contests are on July 31 and August 1st and the state contest will be on Sunday August 2nd. If you have never attended one, you might like to attend. Shuttle wagons will be available to transport visitors around the site.  “I am honored to have been asked to be one of the host farmers,” said Bob Maurer.

Booklet by Harrison Frech on Sale in Rockford Village Office

Several years ago Mr. Harrison Frech wrote a booklet called "Early Visitors to Rockford".   The Rockford historical mural is based on the information in the booklet.   We now have copies of the booklet available at the Village Office for $5 if you are interested !

New Member Joins St. Paul’s United Church of Christ
Services Announced

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ - Rockford, led by Consistory president David Taylor, welcomed the newest member of the church on Sunday, July 26, 2020 following a short ceremony (pictured left). Blaine Hynde of Muskegon, Michigan is a recent graduate of Reeths-Puffer High School. The Consistory greeted him and his family - followed by many congregants.  He is the son of Eugene and Diana Hynde and grandson of Dennis and Gloria Laffin.  He will be attending Elmhurst University in the Fall where he will play LaCrosse.

The service was led by guest singer and musician, Paula Stephenson Schumm. Paula entertained with instruments hand-crafted by her husband Herb. The mountain dulcimer and the country dulcimer rang out with their "sweet sounds". The autoharp (shown above) was a favorite of the crowd as was her fun "sound" stick with bells, tambourine, a horn and other noise makers. Songs led by Paula included favorite hymns like Amazing Grace and How Great Thou Art as well as patriotic Christian songs and hymns. Everyone was singing along and participating as she got people clapping and flapping. Paula and Herb grew up locally.

Sheriff Jeff Grey will speak on Sunday, August 2, 2020 and Parkway Teacher and Coach Doug Hughes will speak on Sunday, August 9, 2020. Services are held outside under a big tent. Bring your own lawn chairs if you prefer. Some feel more comfortable sitting in their vehicles and listening. Social distancing and other rules are being followed to keep everyone safe. Everyone is welcome.

Click on smaller thumbnails below to enlarge them.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – July 29, 2020
by Kristy Fryman

CELINA- As of July 29, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 470 confirmed cases, 11 probable cases, 330 recovered cases, 99 pending cases, 2,060 negative cases, 5 hospitalizations, 11 deaths, and 1 probable death of COVID-19. Currently, there are 128 active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County.

The MCHD reports the 453rd confirmed case is a female in the age range of 40-50 years. The 454th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 40-50 years. The 455th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 30-40 years. The 456th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 50-60 years. The 457th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 10-20 years. The 458th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 20-30 years. The 459th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 40-50 years. The 460th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 50-60 years. The 461st confirmed case is a female in the age range of 30-40 years. The 462nd confirmed case is a male in the age range of 30-40 years. The 463rd confirmed case is a male in the age range of 40-50 years. The 464th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 60-70 years. The 465th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 60-70 years. The 466th case is a male in the age range of 40-50 years. The 467th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 30-40 years. The 468th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 60-70 years. The 469th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 60-70 years. The 470th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 80-90 years.  All of these individuals are self-isolating at home.

The MCHD wants to remind the public about the Mercer Health COVID-19 Drive-Thru Testing. The site is not a pop-up testing site.  Testing requirements must be met and an order from a physician/medical provider is required.  People who are eligible to be tested include:

Symptomatic healthcare workers

Any symptomatic resident of Mercer County

As resources allow- asymptomatic healthcare workers, non-Mercer County residents who are symptomatic and Mercer County residents who are receiving essential surgeries/procedures or other medically necessary procedures.

While most people in Mercer County who have tested positive for COVID-19 have had only minor symptoms, it is important to remember that others could become severely ill. The people at the highest risk include older adults and people with underlying medical conditions.  Healthy individuals are encouraged to take precautions to help protect loved ones who could be more seriously impacted by the virus.

If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District 419-586-3251.

Rockford Eagles FOE 1292 Donates
The generosity continues !  THANK YOU to the Rockford Eagles FOE 1292 for donating $5,000 to the Rockford American Legion Post 508 toward the Veterans Memorial !  

With funds continuing to come in we will be able to do some landscaping and maintain the memorial for years to come.  

Photo - FOE Members Blair Shaffer and Dick Shaffer, and Legion Members Lowell Warthman, Reed Shaffer, Alex Rowen,
and Terry Joseph.

The beautiful artistry of Ethel Pontsler in "The Angel House"
Angel House Murals -- photographed by Lisa Kuhn

These are located in the former Nazarene Church at the corner of Market St and Franklin St that is scheduled to be razed
in July 2020 in Rockford.

Van Wert County Health Department Update 7-23-2020
by Britt Menchhofer
The Van Wert County Health Department is reporting 3 new confirmed cases in county residents.  The age ranges of the new cases are:

Case #55 in 10-19 age range

Case #56 in 50-59 age range

Case #57 in 70-79 age range

The health department is aware of information circulating regarding a lab report that was made in error.  Unfortunately, human errors occur.  The recent release of a positive COVID-19 result to a Van Wert County resident who had never been tested was simply a human error.  As information for samples is entered into a lab system it is not difficult to select the wrong person with an identical or similar name.  After discussions with the lab that made the report and a little investigation it was determined that this was the error.  Once the results were released the error was noticed and corrected.  However, the wrong results were still released to the Van Wert County Health Department.  As part of our job and in an attempt to protect the public we begin contact tracing as soon as possible with all positive cases.  The error was identified and the positive case is not and will not be included with the total count for Van Wert County. 

 
July 27-28, 2020 
 

Culvert Replacement will close road
The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Cassella-Montezuma Road between Huwer Road and Ft. Recovery Minster Road in Marion Township for a culvert replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on July 29, 2020 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 4 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

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

Rockford Bicentennial Committee to Meet Soon

The Rockford Bicentennial Committee will be having it's monthly meeting on August 3rd in the Rockford Village Hall to discuss the possibility of upcoming events in 2020.  First on the agenda will be the drawing of a ticket to win a Henry .45/70 rifle.  All tickets have been sold and the original drawing date had been push back due to impact of the coronavirus.  The gun will have a very unique serial number and is certainly 'one of a kind'.  We would like to thank all who have participated in this gun raffle and would like to thank 'Iron Elements' for their leadership and guidance in conducting this special event.

Writer’s Club Launches Book

By Barbara Moore

A family anecdote about an exploding turkey, told in the humorous style of Erma Bombeck.

A yarn about an irate wildcat released in a moving car, told in the style of Mark Twain.

A World War II account of a U.S. soldier trapped behind enemy lines.

All of these stories are based on true events.  These and more are included in a new book, “Reader’s Harvest:  A Cornucopia of Short Stories, Memoirs, Essays, Poems, and Anecdotes,” published by the Stateline Writer’s Club.

The club is a non-profit organization founded in 1983 by Esther Jetter of Ft. Recovery, along with Shirley Knox of Celina and a handful of other writing enthusiasts.  Jetter set an ambitious goal for the club:  all members would become published authors. 

As the decades passed, the club grew.  Membership became more diverse.   Some members did publish on an individual basis.  Meanwhile, the club moved from Ft. Recovery to the Mercer County District Library, where members usually meet monthly.  Meetings are temporarily suspended during the pandemic.  

In July 2017 the club formed a publishing committee and began work on its first club anthology.   Members selected compositions with community readers in mind.  Next, members submitted a maximum of three works to a peer-review jury with professional literary credentials.  After receiving critiques, the authors revised, polished, and resubmitted their works.  

The committee selected sixty-two pieces, representing twenty-four authors. The works were then organized into a 250-page paperback book, which is expected to be printed and delivered in November.

The Stateline Writer’s Club is now taking orders.  The cost of the book is $10, payable upon delivery.  Those interested in placing an order or making inquiries should contact Barbara Moore, club secretary, no later than August 15 at the email address moorejoanb434@gmail.com.

Club founder Esther Jetter is now 101 and living in Greenville, Ohio.  Three of her compositions will appear in “Reader’s Harvest.”  When informed that after 37 years her club is now ready to publish its first collection of compositions, she promptly said, “I’d like to buy a copy!”

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – July 23, 2020 by Kristy Fryman

CELINA- As of July 23, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 408 confirmed cases, 8 probable cases, 267 recovered cases, 214 pending cases, 1,729 negative cases, 4 hospitalizations, 10 deaths, and 1 probable death of COVID-19. Currently, there are 130 active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County.

The MCHD reports the 379th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 50-60 years. The 380th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 60-70 years. The 381st confirmed case is a female in the age range of 40-50 years. The 382nd confirmed case is a male in the age range of 50-60 years. The 383rd confirmed case is a male in the age range of 50-60 years. The 384th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 60-70 years. The 385th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 60-70 years. The 386th confirmed case is male in the age range of 50-60 years. The 387th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 40-50 years. The 388th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 40-50 years. The 389th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 20-30 years. The 390th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 10-20 years. The 391st confirmed case is a female in the age range of 50-60 years. The 392nd confirmed case is a female in the age range of 40-50 years. The 393rd confirmed case is a male in the age range of 30-40 years. The 394th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 20-30 years. The 395th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 40-50 years. The 396th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 30-40 years. The 397th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 30-40 years. The 398th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 20-30 years. The 399th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 30-40 years. The 400th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 50-60 years. The 401st confirmed case is a male in the age range of 50-60 years. The 402nd confirmed case is a male in the age range of 30-40 years. The 403rd confirmed case is a male in the age range of 50-60 years. The 404th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 60-70 years. The 405th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 30-40 years. The 406th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 30-40 years. The 407th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 30-40 years. The 408th confirmed case is a female in the range of 20-30 years.  All of these individuals are self-isolating at home.

Since Friday, July 17, there has been a total of 90 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County. COVID-19 is community spread and affecting all demographics across the county. The MCHD pleads to the citizens of Mercer County to take the precautions to protect themselves and those around them from the spread of COVID-19. We need cooperation from the public to slow the spread of the virus in our community.

Yesterday, Governor DeWine announced a mandatory mask order for all counties in Ohio, beginning tonight at 6:00 PM. The following applies to the mandate:

·         Masks must be worn at all times when at an indoor location that is not a residence

·         Outdoors – when unable to keep 6’ social distance from those not in your household

·         When waiting for, riding, driving or operating public transportation, such as a taxi, car service, or private rideshares

·         The following groups are not required to wear a mask: individuals under the age of 10, individuals who have a medical condition or disability, officiants at religious services, individuals actively exercising or playing sports, individuals involved in public safety, and individuals actively eating or drinking.

A travel advisory was issued on July 22, 2020, for all individuals coming into Ohio from states reporting COVID-19 testing rates of 15 percent or higher. Those traveling from one of the following states should self-quarantine for 14 days at home or in a hotel: Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Mississippi, Nevada, South Carolina, and Texas. 

The MCHD appreciates the patience from the community as our small staff handles a significant amount of work. We will continue to keep the public informed.

The Mercer County COVID-19 dashboard can be found at https://arcg.is/1mTqa5. If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District 419-586-3251.

 
July 16-26, 2020 
 

Parkway Class of 1980 Cancels 2020 Reunion – Looks to 2021

The Parkway Class of 1980 will not be holding its 40th Class Reunion this fall as originally planned. At this time, the planning committee hopes to have a plan in place by next summer for a 41st Class Reunion in the Fall of 2021. Questions can be directed to planning committee members Loren Shindeldecker, Karla Butler, Kathy Fisher, or Steve Kuhn.

Lambert Days Cancelled but Fireworks are On
Ohio City Fireworks this Saturday The Ohio City Park Board/ Lambert Days Committee would like to invite you and your family to our firework display this Saturday, July 18, 2020. This year’s Lambert Days Festival has been cancelled, but we felt obligated to keep our fireworks for our communities. This year’s display is proudly sponsored by the Ohio City Park Board/ Lambert Days Committee, Harvey Lewis American Legion Post 346, the Village of Ohio City, and Ohio City Youth Activities. We would also like to mention that Ohio City Express has been involved in donating for many years and we highly recommend visiting our community convenience store before the event. The firework display is set for Saturday night (approximately 10 pm). The rain date is for Sunday night at the same time. Individuals are encouraged to use social distancing. There will NOT be any activities, vendors, or open restrooms on the premises. The Ohio City Park Board/ Lambert Days Committee is always looking for volunteers and new members. Our meetings are open to the public and are at 6:30pm on the first Wednesday of every month at the Ohio City Community Building. We are looking forward to next year’s Lambert Days being bigger and better than ever before. Follow our Facebook page for upcoming events in 2021.

ANN ESSELSTEIN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUNDRAISER
By Ryan and Leah Thompson

In honor of Ann Esselstein, the Parkway community will be collecting donations for the Ann Esselstein Memorial Fund. In appreciation for your generosity, supporters will receive a beautiful, white Annabelle Hydrangea. [The retail value of each plant is $40.]. Those who make a donation prior to July 25th will have a Annabelle Hydrangea reserved for them to pickup on Saturday, August 1st at the Rockford Fire Department. "Day-of" donations will also be accepted at the Rockford Fire Department on August 1st - and a limited number of additional hydrangeas will be available.

To reserve a hydrangea or make an advanced donation, we are asking all supporters to complete an online order form https://form.jotform.com/201836153402143 and mail your donation to [checks made payable to Mercer County Civic Foundation, include Ann Esselstein Scholarship in the memo line]:

c/o Mercer County Civic Foundation

401 East Street

Rockford, Ohio 45882

Donations received in advance will have their Annabelle Hydrangea reserved for pick up on Saturday, August 1, 2020 from 10 AM - 2 PM at the Rockford Fire Department, 201 S Main Street, Rockford, Ohio.

To compliment donation efforts will be selling their famous, grilled chicken lunches the same day with a portion of the proceeds being donated to the Ann Esselstein Scholarship. To order chicken lunches, please reserve meals by calling the Rockford Carry Out at 419-363-2855.

For more information about the Ann Esselstein Memorial Scholarship fundraiser, please contact Leah Thompson at 260-301-4079.

Parkway's Reopening School Plan has been posted on the district website at http://www.parkwayschools.org/

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ Plans Upcoming Outdoor Services

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH recently re-opened their Sunday morning worship services at 10 A.M in an outdoor venue.

On Sunday, July 26, 2020 at 10 AM, Paula Stephenson Schumm will provide the Praise Service of singing old time Christian music and accompanying herself on autoharp, dulcimer and other instruments hand-crafted by her husband Herb.

Visit www.paulaschumm.com for more about Paula

On Sunday, August 2, 2020 at 10AM, Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey will be the guest speaker.

A tent and chairs will be provided both weeks, and social distancing rules will be observed for the safety of those attending. Bring your own lawn chairs if you prefer, or park in your car and listen.

In case of rain, the sanctuary will be used, observing social distancing.
Please call Dave Taylor at 419-733-1155 for any questions regarding the reopening of worship services.

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

The Annual Suicide Awareness Community Walk is planned for Saturday, September 19, 2020 at the Mercer County Fairgrounds.
Registration begins at 8 AM, with the walk between 9 AM and noon, after the Opening Ceremonies. Register the day of the walk.

Press Release on Death in Mercer County on Friday, July 17, 2020

Celina, OH - Mercer County Sheriff, Jeff Grey reports that his office is investigating the death of 22 year old Raepheal A. Dell of Cincinnati, Ohio.

Late Friday afternoon the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office received an alert from Indiana law enforcement and Van Wert, OH law enforcement for male suspect who was suspected in violent crimes in Indiana and Van Wert County.   Dell was the suspect in a burglary / robbery in Fort Wayne, where the victim of the robbery was shot.   Dell also was a suspect in a second robbery in Van Wert County, Ohio.  During the escape from this robbery, a person, who attempted to stop his escape, was dragged by the car as the suspect fled.

Mercer County Deputies were advised that Dell was possibly in the Saint Mary’s area due to a cell phone ping.  The pinged cell phone had been stolen during the Van Wert County robbery.  Deputies began checking the east side of Mercer County.  At 5:06 PM Deputy Spencer Heinl found Dell, fitting the description of the suspect, on US Route 33 at the intersection of Kuck Road.  Dell was using a gas can to put gas into the car on the eastbound side of the roadway.  As Heinl pulled behind the car and turned on his roof lights, Dell saw him and walked from the passenger side of his the vehicle to the driver’s side.  He ignored Deputy Heinl’s commands to stop.   Dell then entered the vehicle.  Within seconds of entering the vehicle, Deputy Heinl heard a gunshot and retreated to the rear of the patrol vehicle and radioed for assistance. 

As Deputy Heinl waited for assistance, he continued yelling commands at Dell, but there was no response.  After 8 minutes, backup units started to arrive.  Once back up from Celina & St. Mary’s Police Departments arrived, Deputy Heinl and officers approached the vehicle behind a bullet resistant shield.  Dell was located inside the vehicle deceased from an apparent self-inflicted AK 47 shot to his head.

Grey advised Mercer County Sheriff’s detectives were called to the scene to investigate.  The investigation revealed that Dell was released from the Kosciusko County, Indiana Jail earlier in the day.  The car Dell was driving was stolen from Kosciusko County. Dell apparently ran out of gas at US 33 and Kuck Road.  According to witnesses, a pick-up truck stopped and Dell tried to enter the truck, so the truck left the scene.  The truck’s occupants have not been identified, but detectives would like to speak with them, if they can be located.  A short time after the truck left, another vehicle stopped.  Dell got into this vehicle and it went to TSC in St. Mary’s where a female entered TSC alone.  She was visibly upset and purchased a one gallon gas can.  That vehicle then went to the Shell station in St. Mary’s and purchased fuel.  This female has not been identified, but detectives would like to speak to her, if she can be located and identified. The occupants of the truck and the female who picked up Dell are not suspected of any wrong doing, the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office is just trying to be as thorough as possible in determining the events that led up to Dell taking his life.

After consultation with Mercer County Coroner, Dr. Tim Heinrichs, Dell was transported to the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office for an autopsy.  The Cincinnati Division of Police assisted in notifying the next of kin of Mr. Dell.

Assisting the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office at the scene were the Celina Police Department, Saint Mary’s Police Department, Rockford Police Department, Celina Fire Department, Ohio State Highway Patrol, and MCERV (Mercer County Emergency Response Volunteers). 

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – July 18, 2020, by Kristy Fryman

CELINA- As of July 18, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 347 confirmed cases, 7 probable cases, 250 recovered cases, 98 pending cases, 1,595 negative cases, 5 hospitalizations, 10 deaths, and 1 probable death of COVID-19. Currently, there are 86 active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County.

The MCHD reports the 335th confirmed case is a hospitalized male in the age range of 60-70 years. The 336th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 20-30 years and is self-isolating at home. The 337th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 20-30 years and is self-isolating at home. The 338th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 40-50 years and is self-isolating at home. The 339th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 10-20 years and is self-isolating at home. The 340th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 10-20 years and is self-isolating at home. The 341st confirmed case is a male in the age range of 40-50 years and is self-isolating at home. The 342nd confirmed case is a male in the age range of 20-30 and is self-isolating at home. The 343rd confirmed case is a female in the age range of 20-30 years and is self-isolating at home. The 344th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 20-30 years and is self-isolating at home. The 345th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 30-40 years and is self-isolating at home. The 346th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 20-30 years and is self-isolating at home. The 347th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 20-30 years and is self-isolating at home.

Today, the MCHD opened an outbreak tied to a funeral, which took place on Saturday, July 11, 2020 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Coldwater. The viewing was held on Friday, July 10 at Hogenkamp Funeral Home in Coldwater. A benefit was held on Saturday, July 11, 2020 at Boots and Bourbon in Celina.  Anyone who attended the viewing, funeral, and/or benefit is advised to monitor for symptoms of COVID-19. The MCHD will contact anyone who has been exposed to someone who is known to have COVID-19 and provide guidance on what to do.

If you feel that you may be experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle/body aches, headache, loss of taste or smell, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, & diarrhea) there are things you can do at home. Mildly ill patients are encouraged to stay home and contact their healthcare provider by phone for guidance. Patients need to be vigilant in monitoring symptoms and reach out to a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen.  Please do not go to the emergency room or urgent care unless you have already communicated with your healthcare provider and called ahead.

With the continued increase in confirmed cases, the MCHD will continue to keep the public informed. We ask for community’s patience as we work through this situation.

Parkway Parents and athletes may now go to OneView
to update and submit athletic forms as of 7-16-2020.

Parkway Parents may now go to OneView to update & submit school forms.
Go to parent tab on our website & update student online info at www.parkwayschools.org

Covid-19
Update for Van Wert County by Kelly J. Freewalt, RS
Total
Confirmed Cases - 50
Active Cases- 14
Deaths- 1
Recovered- 35
Current Hospitalizations- 1
July 15, 2020

 
July 10-15, 2020 
 

Rockford - Former Nazarene Church to be Razed
by Lisa Kuhn, Village Fiscal Agent
Photo by Mike Schumm


Shown above and below are pictures of the bell removal from the old Nazarene Church at the corner of Franklin and Market.  
Mike Maharg and Crew removed the bell from the church for restoration.  The bell is stamped 'C.S. Bell Company #40.'  
It appears the bell dates to thelate 1800's. The church is scheduled for demolition this week.  The church was bought from the United Brethren Church on Route 33 west of Rockford near Harner road around 1940 and moved to its current location, becoming a Nazarene Church.

Sheila Baltzell-Linn mentioned: “When the church disbanded in the 1970’s, the late Fred Baltzell bought the property (as it was adjacent to the Rockford Press Printing Company) and it sat vacant for many years and was once again sold. In the 1980’s it became an art studio run by local artist Ethel Pontsler. It operated for several years. In the 1990’s, Jenny Langenkamp opened a dance studio at the location and it operated for several years as well.”

Sheila recalled, “ An interesting side note of Rockford history is the four corners of fire.  In the same year time period, Winter 1985 - Summer 1986, the little white house on the southwest corner of Franklin and Market caught fire accidentally. It was owned by Mr. and Mrs. Springer. He was thawing pipes under the house.

Then the white 2 story frame house (Mr. Whittung’s home) on the northwest corner had an accidental fire. Both of these houses were saved by the volunteers of the Rockford Fire Company. In the summer of 1985, several teenagers wandered into the village and entered the unlocked Rockford Presbyterian Church on the north east corner of Franklin and Market. They started a fire that went undetected for 12 or more hours, which baked the inside of the old brick structure and destroyed the inside of the church. It was completed remodeled. Later that church disbanded and the property sold. It is now The Belle. The Rockford Fire Company also saved that church. The last Franklin and Market Street fire happened on Friday, June 13, 1986, when the Rockford Press wood frame building accidentally caught fire and burned to the ground. That fire was a total loss. The Rockford Press was near the corner right next to the Old Nazarene Church.”

The Shanes Crossing Bicentennial Mural Project was completed and hung for the Bicentennial Celebration 2020.
Talented artist and historian, Dan Keyes, designed the mural to depict the values and history of our cherished community.
View it on the south side of the Rockford Fire Station on Main Street.

Robert Maurer shared these photos of the installation. Thank you Bob!

Click on each photo below to enlarge them. 

 
July 5-9, 2020 
 

Rockford Veterans Memorial Donation
The Rockford American Legion Post 508 would like to thank Luginbill Construction and Truss Works of Rockford.  These
companies worked together to construct and donate a new shelter house located at the Rockford Veterans Memorial.  
This is a HUGH blessing to Hedges Park !   Thank you !!

We love our commUNITY !!

Photo includes - Reed Shaffer, Terry McMillion, Tony King, Lucas Luginbill, Craig Meyer, Alex Rowen, Mike Heiser, and
Lowell Warthman.  

Parkway School Board Agenda for a Regular Meeting 6:30 PM via Zoom Virtual
by Sally Cox for July 14, 2020 

The Village of Rockford is a Community Reinvestment Area – incentives include:

• Percentage of tax exemption on the increase in assessed valuation resulting from improvements.

• 50% for 5 years for construction or remodeling of dwellings of at least $2500.00

• Also some incentives for commercial or industrial facilities


Contact Rockford  Village office for more information - 419-363-3032 ext 1.

 
July 1-4, 2020 
Happy Independence Day!
 

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ to Re-open Worship Featuring Outdoor Services

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH will be re-opening their Sunday morning worship services at 10 A.M beginning on July 12, 2020.

The opener will be an outdoor service with Praise Music by local Willshire-based entertainer, Jayden Black.

On Sunday, July 19, 2020 at 10 AM, Mike Bruns and his band will provide the Praise Service in an outdoor setting as well.

A tent and chairs will be provided both weeks, and social distancing rules will be observed for the safety of those attending. Bring your own lawn chairs if you prefer, or park in your car and listen .

In case of rain, the sanctuary will be used, observing social distancing.

After July 19, 2020, the sanctuary will continue to be used for future worship services.

Please call Dave Taylor at 419-733-1155 for any questions regarding the reopening of worship services.

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

Mercer County PERI meeting cancelled for July
The Mercer County PERI meeting scheduled for Tuesday, July 14th is being cancelled due to recent directives from the Ohio PERI.  Ohio PERI has announced that all local chapter and district activities, including the annual District #2 meeting, for July and August are being suspended due to Covid-19 concerns.  Additionally, it has been announced that the Annual Ohio PERI meeting, usually held in September in Columbus, has been cancelled and will not be rescheduled for 2020.

The next Mercer County PERI chapter meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 8th at the Hopewell Grange Hall at the Mercer County Fairgrounds. 

Ann Esselstein Scholarship Announced
Ann Esselstein influenced every person who crossed her path through her love of God, the ability to make each person feel important, and her renowned passion for education. To honor Ann, an ongoing scholarship will be set up in her name through the Mercer County Civic Foundation. Two scholarships will be given each year, one to a Celina graduate and one to a Parkway graduate. Please help us earn money to make this happen!

An anonymous local nursery is donating Annabelle hydrangeas to help us reach our goal of $10,000. (These plants typically go for $35-$40.)

The first 150 people who donate toward the scholarship will receive a plant!!!

The drive is Saturday, July 11, 2020 from 10 AM - 2 PM in front of Celina Middle School.

Checks should be made out to Mercer County Civic Foundation with Ann Esselstein Scholarship in the Memo Line.

 
June 29-30, 2020 
 

Nikki Fox shared this photo.

Rockford American Legion 508 Thanks Community
On behalf of the Rockford American Legion Post 508, THANK YOU to - everyone who helped at the Memorial Day military salute at Riverside, those who helped with our chicken barbecue, and all the people who supported us by buying dinners.  It was a great success!     Hope to see you again next year for the Veterans Memorial Dedication!

Traffic Fatality in Mercer County 
Mercer County Sheriff, Jeff Grey reports that his office is investigating a fatal traffic crash that occurred on St Rte 219 in Montezuma.

Grey advised that his office received a 911 call at 10:56 PM on June 16th, 2020 where the caller reported a motorcycle crash on St Rte 219 just west of St Rte 703 (Montezuma). 

The investigation found that 50 year old Eric P Frank of 713 Lilac Drive of Coldwater was traveling westbound on St Rte 219.  Frank had entered a small curve and lost control of his 1994 Harley Davidson and traveled off of the north side of the roadway, where Frank was ejected off of the motorcycle.   Frank was transported to Mercer Health in Coldwater, where he was pronounced deceased a short time later.  Frank was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

Deputies were assisted at the scene by members of the Coldwater EMS and Montezuma Fire Department.

Celina Police Department Makes Arrests 06/29/2020

On Friday, the Celina Police Department conducted a traffic blitz targeting persons with known warrants and criminal history.  The result was seven persons incarcerated and one cited for driving under suspension.  Undisclosed amounts of meth, marijuana and drug paraphernalia were also seized.

Those incarcerated in the Mercer Co. Jail include:

            Nicolette Hufford, 30 years old from St. Marys for driving under suspension         

            and possession of drug paraphernalia

             Ricky Crouch Jr., 38 years old from Celina for driving under suspension, possession of drug paraphernalia, and a warrant for failure to appear.         

            Brandon Craig, 34 years old from Celina for felony possession of drugs

            Josh Cole, 31 years old from Wren for a warrant from Adult Parole, obstructing official business and resisting arrest – He fled on foot and was   caught a short time later.

            Chad Gallimore, 37 years old from Greenville for a warrant through  Auglaize County.

            Ryan Sanning, 44 years old from Celina for a warrant for Criminal Trespass

            Julius Kittle, 64 years old from Celina for a warrant and possession of drugs

A citation was issued to Brandon Edwards, 28 years old from Montezuma for driving under suspension.

 
June 15-28, 2020 
 

Garden Walk Planned in Rockford

The Rockford Bicentennial Committee has decided to move forward with the June 28th Garden Walk from 3PM to 6:00PM. There will be several local gardens featured as well as the Rockford Community Building in Shanes Park and the Rockford Bicentennial Mural landscaping at the Rockford Fire Station. Addresses and descriptions of participating gardeners will be available at Brand It Marketing, 4583 state Route 117, Rockford the day of the event. Brand It Marketing is the sponsor and will be giving away mini garden rakes to the first 100 participants. All free-will donations will be used for future Rockford Bicentennial activities. If you have questions you can call the Rockford Village Hall 419-363-3032 Ex 1 or check out www.RockfordAlive.com or www.Rockfordohio.org for more information.

Old Fashioned Farmers Days Canceled for 2020
Due to current conditions after a lot of thought we have decided to cancel Old Fashioned Farmers Days scheduled for July 2nd, 3rd, and 4th 2020. We are starting to plan our event for 2021 which will be held on July 1st, 2nd, and 3rd 2021 at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds. Our Feature tractor in 2021 will be John Deere Equipment and our feature lawn mower will also be John Deere. As always all makes of equipment are welcome and encouraged to display. For more information about our show and upcoming events please visit our website at oldfashionedfarmersdays.com

D’Wight Sheets President - Old Fashioned Farmers 

St. Anthony Dinner Theater will go on

News has been circulating of the permanent closure of the St. Anthony Dinner Theater...this is NOT true. The dinner theater is continuing to prepare for this year's performance to be held November 1st, 6th-8th, 13th-15th, and 20th-22nd. This is a long standing program that has raised money for families in need and we look forward with carrying on this tradition for many years to come. If COVID-19 has an impact on this year's show, we will make that announcement at that time. But we will most definitely be back! Our show will go on! Thank you for your continued support of the St. Anthony Dinner Theater and please spread the word that our performance will take place this November.

Temple Family Announces Newest Daughter

Troy and Jessica Temple are happy to announce the birth of their sixth child, a daughter.

AnnaLee Elizabeth Temple was born on Saturday, June 13th, 2020 at 6 AM at JTDMH in St. Marys.  She weighed 7 lb 10 oz and was 20.5 inches long.

AnnaLee is welcomed to the family by siblings Liberty Temple (14), Ava Pond (13), Ethan Pond (12), Lyric Temple (10), and Jenna Pond (9).

Grandparents are Kirby and Judy Stetler of Celina and Rick and Deb Temple of Rockford.  Great-grandparents are Charles Stephenson of Rockford and Nancy Taylor of Rockford.  Late great-grandparents include Anna Lee Stephenson, Mary Lou Taylor, John Taylor, and Ivan and Juanita Temple.

Rockford Carnegie Library’s Summer Reading Program

It is time for the Rockford Carnegie Library’s Summer Reading Program.

This year’s theme is Imagine Your Story. We will explore fun characters like mermaids, unicorns, and dragons.  Children will also be encouraged to enjoy the classic nursery rhymes. The program runs from June 15-July 31 and is open to everyone: children, teens, and adults. Sign up now by stopping in or calling the library.  

It is our goal to keep everyone safe but also give kids some normalcy this summer. We know how important it is for social interaction and play therefore intend on providing in-library programming. Just like previous summers the same program will run for a week and be provided more than once to accommodate everyone’s schedule. The only difference is we ask that you pre-register by calling, stopping in, or messaging the library on Facebook. Your welcome to pick a day/time and sign up for the whole 6 weeks. Programming will be limited to 10 children in each room during each time slot. Programs will start June 23 and run till July 29 as follows: Tuesday’s 10:30-11:30, 12:30-1:30, & 2-3 also Wednesday’s 10:30-11:30 & 12:30-1:30. There will be an evening program on Thursday, 7/16 from 6:30-7:30. 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.

A grab and go craft kit will be available for walk-ins or curbside for those not comfortable having children attend the programs.

For participants age 0-18 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. Prizes will be drawn at random for those signed up at our finale party. You do not have to be present to win.

As for adults, every book you read or listen to enters you into the gift card drawing. Slips are available at the library.

Monday, July 6th Book Club is Back! The discussion is over The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah. Everyone is welcome to come at 2:00 OR 6:30 pm. Stop by the library to get your copy of the book.

Free Will Donation Book Sale going on now in the library basement thru 6/20.

For additional information and dates please stop by the library or check us out online at rcpubliclibrary.org or on Facebook. Curbside pick-up is still available. The library is OPEN: M-TH 10-8, F 10-5:30, and S 10-2. Call us at 419-363-2630.

READ, Have Fun and Stay Safe this Summer!

Honor Flight Cancels Fall Flights

Honor Flight Northeast Indiana (HFNEI has canceled two flights planned for September and October. These were rescheduled flights originally planned for spring of 2020.

After thorough consideration, the Board of Directors of the Honor Flight Network has ordered all Honor Flights scheduled for the remainder of 2020 be postponed until calendar year 2021. Honor Flight Northeast Indiana (HFNEI), as a member of the Honor Flight Network, will comply with the mandate. The COVID-19 virus has had a significant impact on us as individuals and as a nation.

HFNEI President Dennis Covert states “the safety of our veterans has always been and will continue to be the number one priority for Honor Flight.  Our veterans are among the most vulnerable of the population as it relates to serious complications and death from COVID-19 and, as a result of this, it is just not prudent for Honor Flight to risk the health and safety of those we seek to honor at this juncture.”

Veterans and guardians who were originally scheduled for the April 29, 2020 Honor Flight from Fort Wayne will automatically be re-scheduled for the April 28, 2021 Honor Flight.

Veterans and guardians who were originally scheduled for the May 20, 2020 Honor Flight from Fort Wayne will automatically be re-scheduled for the May 26, 2021 Honor Flight.

Changes to the above schedule are still possible. Please visit our website www.hfnei.org or Facebook for updates.

If you have questions, please call the Honor Flight number 260-633-0049.

Honor Flight NE Indiana, Inc. is a volunteer, nonprofit, 501(c)3 organization. Donations are tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law.

Corn in Right of Way

Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart is reminding landowners and farmers that corn that has been planted and is encroaching in the road right-of-ways can be a very serious sight problem on the narrower township and county roads.  “Such sight problems limiting the ability of the traveling public to see, can be particularly hazardous; causing the very real and dangerous potential for intersection accidents,” Wiechart said.

The Mercer County Engineer’s Office requests that landowners review these intersections where they have corn planted and if they see sight problems, they lessen the hazard by removing that portion of the crop that is obstructing the clear line of sight.  Details regarding existing township and county road right-of-ways may be obtained by contacting the engineer’s office.

CHIP & SEAL SEASON

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart is announcing that crews will be starting the yearly chip and seal work on approximately 120 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.

 
June 5-14, 2020 
 

Car for Sale
The Village of Rockford will be taking sealed bids for a
2005 Crown Vic - AS IS - New tires, 124,000+ miles.
Car can be seen at the Rockford Village Hall located at
151 E Columbia St.  

* Village reserves the right to decline bids that do not meet the reserve.  

Bids can be mailed to PO Box 282 or  dropped off at Village Office.  
Sealed bids will be accepted until June 16th at 4:30 pm.

The Village of Rockford will hold a Budget hearing on
June 16th at 7:15pm.

Rockford Carnegie Library is Now Open

Library Director Shelley Muhlenkamp and the Library Board are pleased to announce The Rockford Carnegie Library is open. Hours are: Monday-Thursday 10-8, Friday 10-5:30, and Saturday 10-2. There is a Free Will Donation Book Sale going on now through June 20th in the library basement during regular hours. Due to the COVID-19 virus, patrons should not enter the library if symptomatic or have been in direct contact with someone who is. Face coverings are not required for patrons. Please practice social distancing. Frequent disinfecting of desks, workstations, and high-contact surfaces will be taken by staff. Precautions will be taken to the best of our ability when handling materials. Children are welcome in the library.  If you are not comfortable coming into the library, we are still offering curbside pick-up. Just give us a call 419-363-2630.

The Summer Reading Program has been pushed back. Sign up starts June 15. We hope to have small group programming in the library starting June 23. Registration will be required. Watch local media for details. In the meantime, stop in to get your grab and go craft for Father’s Day.

Child Dies in ATV Accident; Sibling Injured
Mercer County Sheriff, Jeff Grey reports that his office received a 911 call at 7:38 PM on Monday, June 1st, 2020. The caller reported an ATV crash that had occurred in a field.  The incident took place in Recovery Township west of State Route 49 and south of Park Road.

The investigation found that two (2) brothers, ages 6 and 8 were in a 2011 Polaris Ranger (ATV) driving down a gravel drive between two fields.  The 6 year old was operating the ATV, he was identified as Sawyer D. Overman.  Sawyer went off of the right side of the gravel road, over corrected, lost control and went off of the left side of the gravel lane.  The ATV overturned and ejected Sawyer, who was pinned under the ATV.   His 8 year old brother was able to free himself from inside the ATV and went to seek help. 

Several adults responded and attempted resuscitation efforts until St. Henry EMS arrived.  Sawyer was transported to Mercer Health in Coldwater, by St. Henry EMS where he was pronounced deceased a short time later.  The 8 year old sustained minor injuries and was treated at Mercer Health as well.  

Deputies were assisted at the scene by member of the St. Henry EMS and Fort Recovery Fire Department. 

New Mendon American Legion Post #2019 to be Chartered

Ohio American Legion Commander to formally present the new Mendon Post #2019 with its official Charter.

Roger L. Friend, the American Legion commander of Ohio, will be presenting the official charter to its newest Legion Post #2019, on Tuesday evening, June 23rd, 2020 @ 7 P.M. at the Old Farm Store, located at 114 N. Main St. Mendon, Ohio.  The Henry Drake - Ricky D. Zizelman American Legion Post #2019, Mendon, Ohio, along with 30 new charter member veterans were recently approved by the National American Legion.  Commander Friend, is a U.S. Navy veteran who served during the Vietnam War, and also served over 22 years in the Naval Reserves.  As State Commander, he is in charge of over 540 Posts throughout Ohio, and its 90,000 plus members.  The public is invited to this event in welcoming the American Legion back to Mendon after a 100 year absence.  Light refreshments will be served. In conjunction with the Governor's policy on the COVID-19 Pandemic, social distancing inside the Hall will be observed.  

Eagle Barn Quilt Latest in Trail

The Rockford Bicentennial Barn Quilt trail continues to lengthen as the Rockford Eagles FOE 1292
recently purchased a Wooden Barn Quilt.    The barn quilt features an eagle and can
been seen  on display in the front window of the club located at 179 S Main St.  

The Bicentennial Barn Quilt Bus Tour has been rescheduled to later this fall.

For a full listing of Rockford Area Barn Quilts please visit our web site rockfordalive.com.

Multiple Confirmed COVID-19 cases at The Gardens at Celina
By Kristy Fryman, Emergency Response Coordinator

CELINA- Due to an increased number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 at The Gardens at Celina, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) opened an outbreak on June 3, 2020 at The Gardens at Celina.

As this time, there are 5 confirmed cases of COVID-19 connected to the outbreak at The Gardens at Celina. There are 3 confirmed staff members & 2 confirmed residents. There are also 13 pending results. The MCHD has been working with The Gardens at Celina to contain the spread of COVID-19 through isolation of those who are ill and contacting those who may have been exposed. 

Long-term care facilities are at a higher risk of communicable disease outbreaks because of the close proximity of the residents and staff, as well as the underlying health conditions that many of the residents may have.

The staff at The Gardens has been working diligently to care for the physical and emotional well-being of their residents and updating MCHD regularly. The MCHD and The Gardens have communicated frequently with one another during this time.  Together we ask that you respect the privacy of the residents, families, and staff as we all work through this pandemic.

The Ohio Department of Health continues to provide weekly updates of cases of COVID-19 related to long-term care facilities. This is updated each Wednesday afternoon, with data that is provided by the facility or the health department on the Tuesday before. https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/dashboards/long-term-care-facilities/cases.

All residents are advised to continue with measures to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in the community. It is also important to monitor for symptoms and call a healthcare provider if you begin to show signs or symptoms of the disease.  

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – June 4, 2020
By Kristy Fryman, Emergency Response Coordinator

CELINA- As of June 4, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 221 confirmed cases, 159 recovered cases, 40 pending cases, 771 negative cases, 10 hospitalizations, and 8 deaths of COVID-19.

The MCHD reports the 219th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 10-20 years, the 220th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 30-40 years, and the 221st confirmed case is a female in the age range of 20-30 years. All individuals are self-isolating at home.

The MCHD has partnered with the Tax Map Coordinator, Janell Weiss, from the Mercer County Auditor’s Office in the creation of a COVID-19 dashboard. This information will detail the demographic data for the confirmed COVID-19 cases in the county. The dashboard will be updated Monday through Friday at 4:00 PM. The dashboard can be found at https://arcg.is/1mTqa5. 

If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – June 3, 2020
By Kristy Fryman, Emergency Response Coordinator

CELINA- As of June 3, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 218 confirmed cases, 157 recovered cases, 46 pending cases, 744 negative cases, 10 hospitalizations, and 8 deaths of COVID-19.

The eighth Mercer County resident to die from COVID-19 was a 91 year old female from St. Henry. The MCHD staff would like to express our deepest sympathies to her family and friends during this difficult time.

The MCHD reports the 216th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 60-70 years and is self-isolating at home. The 217th case is a male in the age range of 40-50 years and is self-isolating at home. The 218th confirmed case is a hospitalized female in the age range of 80-90 years.

The MCHD has partnered with the Tax Map Coordinator, Janell Weiss, from the Mercer County Auditor’s Office in the creation of a COVID-19 dashboard. This information will detail the demographic data for the confirmed COVID-19 cases in the county. The dashboard will be updated Monday through Friday at 4:00 PM. The dashboard can be found at https://arcg.is/1mTqa5. 

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – June 2, 2020
By Kristy Fryman, Emergency Response Coordinator

CELINA- As of June 2, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 215 confirmed cases, 151 recovered cases, 34 pending cases, 728 negative cases, 9 hospitalizations, and 7 deaths of COVID-19.

The MCHD reports the 215th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 60-70 years and is self-isolating at home.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – June 1, 2020
by Emergency Response Coordinator Kristy Fryman 

CELINA- As of June 1, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 214 confirmed cases, 134 recovered cases, 20 pending cases, 720 negative cases, 8 hospitalizations, and 7 deaths of COVID-19.

The MCHD reports the 211th confirmed case is female in the age range of 20-30 years and is self-isolating at home. The 212th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 40-50 years and is self-isolating at home. The 213th case is a female and in the age range of 60-70 years and is self-isolating at home. The 214th confirmed case is a hospitalized female in the age range of 30-40 years.

MCHD continues to monitor the outbreak at Cooper Farms – St. Henry Processing Plant. At this time, there are 64 confirmed Mercer county COVID-19 cases, 8 confirmed cases from surrounding counties, 2 pending cases, 48 Mercer County recovered cases, and 45 negative cases of COVID-19.

Sixth COVID-19 Case in Van Wert County
By Britt Menchhofer, Van Wert Public Information Officer

Van Wert County COVID-19
Update 5-26-2020
On May 26, 2020, the Van Wert County General Health District is reporting the 6 th confirmed case of Covid-19 in a resident in the county. The health department is working to notify anyone who may have been in contact with the confirmed case. Four of the six confirmed cases in Van Wert County have recovered. There are currently no confirmed cases hospitalized. Today, Ohio reported 30,827 confirmed cases of Covid-19, 5,579 hospitalizations and 1,803 confirmed deaths. This information is updated daily at 2:00 pm and can be found at http://coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Mercer Health Offers COVID-19 Antibody Testing

Beginning Monday, June 8th, walk-in antibody testing for COVID-19 will be available at Mercer Health. The testing is part of Mercer Health’s direct access testing therefore no appointment is necessary and a physician's order is not required.  The test is performed on a patient's blood specimen and can detect the IgG antibody to SARS-CoV2 (COVID-19).  The direct access testing form is attached and is available at https://mercer-health.com/covid-19-coronavirus-information.

The following should be noted:

Costs: The test costs $65 and payment is due at the time of service

Results:

The test is not intended to determine whether a patient has a current infection, but rather for individuals who feel well and do not have symptoms, but suspect they may have recovered from COVID-19

Negative results do not rule out SARS-CoV-2 infection, particularly in those who have been in contact with the virus.  Follow-up testing with a molecular diagnostic test should be considered to rule out infection in these individuals. Results from antibody testing should not be used as the sole basis to diagnose or exclude SARS-CoV-2 infection or to inform infection status.

A negative result can indicate:

An individual has not been exposed

An individual has been exposed, but has not yet formed antibodies – or –

An individual is unable to form antibodies due to suppression of the immune system

Positive results suggests exposure to SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) but does not necessarily indicate immunity. Results from antibody testing should not be used as the sole basis to diagnose or exclude SARS-CoV-2 infection or to inform infection status.  False positive results can occur due to past or present infection with non-SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus strains, such as coronavirus HKU1, NL63, OC43, or 229E.

A positive result does not necessarily imply immunity from COVID-19 and individuals with antibodies may still be able to spread the disease therefor individuals must continue to follow all federal, state and local public health guidance, such as social distancing.

Results are typically available within 24 hours via an external patient portal. Hard copies of the test results will be mailed to the patient’s home address within 7 – 10 days.

Location and Times:

Hospital Location:   Mercer County Community Hospital, 800 W. Main St., Coldwater
Times: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday
 

Other Locations:

Mercer Health Medical Group at Celina Pro, 801 Pro Dr., Celina, during office hours

Mercer Health Medical Group at Ft. Recovery, 1830 Union City Rd., Ft. Recovery, during office hours

Mercer Health Medical Group at St. Henry, 442 Stachler Rd., St. Henry, during office hours

Mercer Health Medical Group at Southland, 3920 Southland Rd., New Bremen, during office hours

Parkway School Board Agenda for a Regular Meeting 6:30 PM via Zoom Virtual
by Sally Cox for June 9, 2020 

2020-2021 Parkway Preschool

Parkway Preschool is happy to announce we are now accepting registrations for the 2020-2021 school year.  Students must be 3 by August 1 and full potty trained in order to attend.  Forms are available for pick up or call to have one mailed to you - 419-363-3045 ext. 720.  Please leave a voicemail with your name and address and we will mail one as soon as possible.

Our preschool is a Step Up to Quality Five-Star program, which means this program has demonstrated the highest level of quality as rated by the Ohio Department of Education.

Chamber Names Their Scholarship Winner
The Rockford Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the 2020
Chamber Scholarship award recipient, McKenna Johnson.

All applicants had incredible accomplishments and goals, but McKenna's ambition stood
out above the rest. We wish McKenna much success as she starts college
and look forward to cheering her on. Congratulations, McKenna and good
luck with your future plans.

On behalf of the Shanes Crossing Historical Society, they would like to take this opportunity to congratulate their
2020 Scholarship Award recipients, 2020 graduates Kris Kirby and Lily Hipply from Parkway High School.    
Their achievements are applauded and well-wishes go out to each in their future career paths!

Lily Hipply

 
June 1-4, 2020 
 

Pictured above is the newly-hung sign proclaiming the bridge over the St. Marys River in Rockford, OH as the "Antoine Chene Memorial Bridge".

ROCKFORD HISTORY NOTE:

The St. Marys River that runs through Rockford is approximately 100 miles long, flowing northwesterly from St. Marys Ohio to Ft. Wayne, Indiana.  It was called 'Kokothikithiipi' by the Shawnee, 'Mameewa siipiiwi' (Sturgeon River) by the Miami, and 'La riviere de Ste. Marie by the French.  Native tribes were offered payments to allow people to travel and trade the length of the river.  At the site of Shanesville (now Rockford), it was known as the 'Second Crossing' while the 'First Crossing' was found in St. Marys.  A little known fact about the river is that a Naval vessel - the USS St. Marys - was named in honor of the river on October 1, 1958.  

ROCKFORD HISTORY NOTE:

Did you know that on Saturday, June 30, 1883 the first newspaper was published in Shanes Crossing (now Rockford)?  It was named The Free Press and D.C. Kinder was the publisher.  It was published every Thursday and cost 5 cents a copy.  The yearly rate was $1.00.  The first issue is on display in the museum at the Rockford Village Hall.  Nearly 25 business advertisements can be found on the display pages, which supports the fact that Shanes Crossing (now Rockford) was a true hub of activity in Mercer County during that era.

Rockford History Note:

Did you know that in 1888,  Rockford (then Shanes Crossing),  passed an ordinance concerning the Sabbath Day?  The decree stated:  "It shall be unlawful for any person above the age of 14 years on the Sabbath Day, commonly called Sunday, within said Village, to engage in hunting, fishing or to expose any gun or fishing tackle, on the the streets of said Village, or engage in common labor (except works of necessity or charity) or open any grocery store, restaurant, labor booth or shop, and expose therein the goods, wares, liquors for sale or permit the assemblage of persons who engage in idle, vulgar or lascivious conversation or engage in carousing, drunkenness or gambling".

Out of Compliance Sex Offender arrested again
CELINA, OH – Mercer County Jeff Grey reports that his office has, for the third time this year, arrested Christopher Berogan, age 29, for Failure to Register an Address.  Mr. Berogan was taken into custody on June 3 without incident and incarcerated in the Mercer County Jail on one count of Failure to Register, a felony of the third degree.

Mr. Berogan was released from the Mercer County Jail on Wednesday, May 27 after pleading guilty to one count of Failure to Register and being sentenced to Probation through the Mercer County Common Pleas Court.  Mr. Berogan registered an address on Oregon Road upon his release from jail, which he is required to do.  Mr. Berogan never went to that address and several tips were received that he was again living at 1400 West Market Street  in Celina.  Deputies completed an investigation and found the tips provided were accurate and a warrant was sought and received.

Mr. Berogan is being held in the Mercer County Jail, without bond, pending an initial appearance in the Celina Municipal Court.

Bridge Closing
The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Cassella-Montezuma Road between Olding Road and Ashman Road/SR 119 in Marion Township for a bridge replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on June 1, 2020 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 6-8 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

 
May 25-31, 2020 
 

Tribolet and Johnson Engagement & Wedding Announced

Scott and Michelle Tribolet, Rockford, announce the engagement and approaching marriage of their daughter, Amanda Tribolet, to Zach Johnson, son of Matt & Jenny Johnson, Redkey, IN.

The bride-elect is a 2011 graduate of Parkway High School and a 2016 graduate of Ball State University, Muncie, Indiana, with a Bachelor of Science in elementary education.  She is currently employed by Northside Elementary, Hartford City, IN, as a 3rd grade teacher.

The prospective groom is a 2012 graduate of Jay County High School and a 2015 graduate of UNOH with a Bachelor of Science in agricultural technology, agronomy and economics.  He is currently employed in farming.

The couple is planning a June 6, 2020, wedding at St. John Lutheran Church, Hopewell Township.

 
May 21-24, 2020 
Happy Memorial Day Weekend!
 

University Women’s Club Presents $7500 in 2020 Scholarships to Five Area Young Women

The members of The University Women’s Club of Mercer County are pleased to announce their selections of young women who are receiving scholarship grants totaling $7500 for the 2020 school year.

The two $1,500 UWC - Evelyn Meyer’s scholarships for high school senior girls going into the field of Education were awarded to Celina High School's Alyssa Adams who is planning to attend Liberty University as an education major, more specifically Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) with minors in Spanish and Global Studies; and Ft. Recovery High School's Ally Kaiser who is planning to attend University of Dayton with the intent to apply herself through studies to become a high school (or perhaps college) teacher.

The two $1,500 University Women’s Club of Mercer County Scholarships for high school senior girls (any field) were awarded to the following: Celina High School's Valedictorian Kennedy Newell (3 year grad). She plans to attend The Ohio State University's Honors Program as a pre-med student with an undergraduate emphasis in the Department of Health Sciences (with plans to pursue a Doctorate of Osteopathy or a Doctorate of Pharmacy); and Coldwater High School's Alicia Knapke, who will be attending WSU-LC and majoring in Agriculture.

Also, announcing for the first year time – a brand new scholarship grant for the UWC – a $1,500 Scholarship for a female COLLEGE Junior going into her  Senior year, which requires GPA above 3.0, essay, and a college professor’s recommendation. The 2020’s scholarship goes to: Rebecca Phares, Celina, OH. Rebecca will be a senior in the Fall at Purdue, Ft. Wayne, and is majoring in early childhood education. The UWC Members are proud to offer this new scholarship to a student who has successfully launched her college career and is nearing completion of studies.

The UWC of Mercer County unites university graduates of the vicinity for mutual educational benefits and encourages high school women from Mercer County to continue their education. Contact Cora McCalla at 419268-0811 for your  welcoming invite to join this group.

Click on smaller thumbnail pictures below to enlarge.

 
May 18-20, 2020 
 

Job in Rockford Posted
Rockford - Summer - seasonal - General Village laborer - Perform tasks involving physical labor at building, streets, water treatment plant, wastewater treatment plant, collection and distribution systems, and other special projects as directed by the Utility Superintendent.

Please email lisa.kuhn@rockfordohio.org for an application.

Gun Raffle Ongoing in Rockford to Benefit Bicentennial

Proceeds to Rockford Bicentennial Celebration ---
Gun Raffle - $10 donation.
Prize - Custom One-of-Kind Henry Golden 45-70

To purchase tickets -

Check to: Leota Braun Foundation
memo - 2020 Gun Raffle

Mail to: Village of Rockford,
PO BOX 282
Rockford, OH 45882
or use - Village Drop box located at 151 E Columbia St.

We will fill out tickets with information from check and return mail the numbered ticket stub.

* NOTE - The drawing will be held once all tickets are sold - please disregard the date printed on the tickets.

Parkway Incoming Kindergarten Students for 2020-2021

Parkway Elementary School is busy preparing for next school year.  With Kindergarten Screening being postponed, the school is still in need of knowing who will be attending Kindergarten in the fall.  Students need to be five years old before August 1 to be eligible to attend. Please call the Elementary Office by June 8 for information on how to register your child for the 2020-2021 school year at 419-363-3045 ext. 720. 

June 2020 Feel Good Friday Concerts Cancelled

The Van Wert Area Performing Arts Foundation presenting Van Wert Live events, regrets to inform that the June 2020 Feel Good Friday Concerts in Fountain Park have been cancelled due to the Ohio ban on mass gatherings. This includes Walden (6/5), Farewell Angelina (6/12), Rumours (6/19), and The Wayfarers (6/26.) These popular concerts have been rescheduled for June 2021. July 2020 concerts, beginning with 4th of July Live On The Lawn at the Niswonger, are still scheduled as planned. The Van Wert Live team is working to ensure a safe live-music experience when the Ohio ban on mass gatherings lifts.

Vantage Will Hold Virtual Senior Awards Ceremony on Friday, May 22

Vantage Career Center will hold their Senior Awards Ceremony virtually, by video production, available for streaming at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, May 22nd via the Vantage YouTube Channel and Facebook. The video will feature senior and alumni speakers, as well as scholarship and award recognitions, followed by the presentation of the career passports to the seniors in each program.

Vantage invites all students and their families, and the Vantage communities to join in the celebration of our 2020 Vantage seniors. To watch the awards ceremony on Facebook, go to https://www.facebook.com/vantagecc/ and to watch on YouTube, go to https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsSvWcOXukEWORpMF_lL8Xw?view_as=subscriber.

For a special virtual highlight, we are asking our Vantage families to share videos of them celebrating with their Vantage Senior as their name is called during the presentation. All videos can be submitted to social.media@vantagecareercenter.com, or uploaded to Facebook with @vantagecc tagged, to be highlighted and shared on Vantage social media platforms!

Congratulations to our Vantage seniors, Class of 2020!

Bicentennial Committee Postpones Meeting

The Rockford Bicentennial Committee meeting has been postponed until
June 1st at 7 pm - Village Hall.

Will be talking about rest of year schedule of events.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – May 18, 2020

CELINA- As of May 18, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 142 confirmed cases, 58 recovered cases, 117 pending cases, 434 negative cases, 10 hospitalizations, and 2 deaths of COVID-19.

The MCHD reports the 138th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 50-60 years and is self-isolating at home. The 139th confirmed case is a hospitalized male in the age range of 70-80 years. The 140th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 40-50 years and is self-isolating at home. The 141st case is a male in the age range of 20-30 years and is self-isolating at home. The 142nd case is a male in the age range of 50-60 years and is self-isolating at home. 

The MCHD has partnered with the Tax Map Coordinator from the Mercer County Auditor’s Office in the creation of a COVID-19 dashboard. This information will detail the demographic data for the confirmed COVID-19 cases in the county. The dashboard will be updated Monday through Friday at 4:00 PM. The dashboard can be found at https://arcg.is/1mTqa5.

If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – May 17, 2020

CELINA- As of May 17, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 137 confirmed cases, 52 recovered cases, 106 pending cases, 433 negative cases, 9 hospitalizations, and 2 deaths of COVID-19. The MCHD reports the 125th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 50-60 years. The 126th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 30-40 years. The 127th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 20-30 years. The 128 th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 60-70 years. The 129th case is a female in the age range of 90-100 years. The 130th case is a female in the age range of 60-70 years. The 131st case is a female in the age range of 90-100 years. The 132nd case is a male in the age range of 20-30 years. The 133rd case is a male in the age range of 50-60 years. The 134th case is a male in the age range of 50-60 years. The 135th case is a female in the age range of 50-60 years. The 136th case is a female in the age range of 60-70 years. The 137th case is a female in the age range of 10-20 years. Demographic break downs are not being updated over the weekend, however we do expect to be able to make that information available through our online dashboard on Monday, May 18. Visit our website at mchdohio.org or follow Mercer County Ohio Health District on Facebook for more information. Remember that people with COVID-19 have reported a wide range of symptoms – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19: cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell. Other less common symptoms have been reported, including gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – May 16, 2020

CELINA- As of May 16, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 124 confirmed cases, 45 recovered cases, 119 pending cases, 431 negative cases, 9 hospitalizations, and 1 death of COVID-19. The MCHD reports the 117th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 20-30 years. The 118 th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 40-50 years. The 119 th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 40-50 years. The 120th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 40-50 years. The 121st case is a male in the age range of 70-80 years. The 122nd case is a male in the age range of 80-90 years. The 123rd case is a female in the age range of 50-60 years. The 124th case is a female in the age range of 90-100 years. Three of these new confirmed cases are hospitalized. All individuals are self-isolating at home. Demographic break downs are not being updated over the weekend, however we do expect to be able to make that information available through our online dashboard on Monday, May 18. Visit our website at mchdohio.org or follow Mercer County Ohio Health District on Facebook for more information. People with COVID-19 have a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19: cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell. Other less common symptoms have been reported, including gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – May 15, 2020 CELINA- As of May 15, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 116 confirmed cases, 42 recovered cases, 115 pending cases, 429 negative cases, 7 hospitalizations, and 1 death of COVID-19. The MCHD reports the 111th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 40-50 years. The 112th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 90-100 years. The 113th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 30-40 years. The 114th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 50-60 years. The 115th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 40-50 years. The 116th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 40-50 years. All individuals are self-isolating at home. Of the 116 confirmed COVID-19 cases, 68 confirmed cases (57%) are White Non-Hispanic, 43 confirmed cases (39%), are Pacific Islanders, and 5 confirmed cases (4%) are Hispanic. The age range is 19-90 years of age. 62 females and 54 males are confirmed cases. COVID-19 is community spread, with confirmed cases in the following cities/villages: Celina (50), Coldwater (30), Fort Recovery (4), Maria Stein (6), Mendon (3), Rockford (1), St. Henry (20), Chickasaw (1) and Burkettsville (1). People with COVID-19 have a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19: cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chills, muscle pain, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell. Other less common symptoms have been reported, including gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday.

Van Wert County COVID-19 Update 5-15-2020

On May 15, 2020, the Van Wert County General Health District, has received a report of the 4th confirmed cases of Covid-19. The health department is working to notify anyone who may have been in contact with the confirmed case. The first 3 confirmed cases in Van Wert County have recovered. There are currently no confirmed cases hospitalized. When a resident of the county is tested, the testing laboratory is not required to report a negative test, but is required to report a positive test and is also required to enter the test into the state’s reporting software. Van Wert County residents who are tested through their primary care provider are sent to various facilities for testing and the health department does not receive reports of these tests unless they are positive. For this reason, we are unable to accurately report the number of county residents tested. Today, Ohio reported 25,349 confirmed cases of Covid-19, 4,791 hospitalizations and 1,431 confirmed deaths. This information is updated daily at 2:00 pm and can be found at http://coronavirus.ohio.gov. Guidance for reopening businesses can be found on our website at www.vanwertcountyhealth.org or www.coronavirus.ohio.gov. Please contact the health department if you have questions, concerns, or need further guidance regarding reopening businesses. For business specific questions, please call 419- 238-0808 extension 105 or bmenchhofer@vanwertcountyhealth.org. Masks are required to be worn by employees unless the employee meets an exception as listed in the order. If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Van Wert County General Health District at 419-238- 0808. For information on COVID-19 including ways you can prepare and help protect the health of yourself and others, go to www.coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634). Information and resources are also available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.coronavirus.gov.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – May 14, 2020 CELINA- As of May 14, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 110 confirmed cases, 32 recovered cases, 155 pending cases, 368 negative cases, 7 hospitalizations, and 1 death of COVID-19. The MCHD reports the 102nd confirmed case is a female in the age range of 30-40 years. The 103rd confirmed case is a female in the age range of 50-60 years. The 104th confirmed case is male in the age range of 30-40 years. The 105th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 40-50 years. The 106th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 40-50 years. The 107th case is a female in the age range of 30-40 years. The 108th case is a male in the age range of 60-70 years. The 109th case is a male in the age range of 80-90 years. The 110th case is a male in the age range of 50-60 years. All individuals are self-isolating at home. Of the 110 confirmed COVID-19 cases, 64 confirmed cases (58%) are White Non-Hispanic, 42 confirmed cases (38%), are Pacific Islanders, and 4 confirmed cases (4%) are Hispanic. The age range is 19-90 years of age. 61 females and 49 males are confirmed cases. COVID-19 is community spread, with confirmed cases in the following cities/villages: Celina (47), Coldwater (30), Fort Recovery (3), Maria Stein (6), Mendon (3), Rockford (1), St. Henry (18), Chickasaw (1), and Burkettsville (1). The hospitalizations listed in our daily data are current hospitalizations. It’s also important to know that our hospitalizations data reflect Mercer County residents, regardless if they are in our local hospital or a surrounding county hospital. As previously announced, MCHD has been monitoring an ongoing situation at Cooper Farms. At this time, 40 confirmed COVID-19 cases are employed at the St. Henry Processing Plant. There are 30 cases pending COVID-19 results. On May 13, 2020, MCHD opened an outbreak at the Gardens-St. Henry. Currently, there are 4 employees and 1 previous resident who have confirmed cases of COVID-19. The MCHD continues to work with the Ohio Department of Health and the Gardens-St. Henry on this outbreak. Members from the MCHD met with a team from the Ohio Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today. ODH & CDC are providing recommendations and tools on how to assist the MCHD during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – May 13, 2020 CELINA- As of May 13, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 101 confirmed cases, 24 recovered cases, 138 pending cases, 367 negative cases, 7 hospitalizations, and 1 death of COVID-19. The MCHD reports the 87th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 30-40 years and is self-isolating at home. The 88th confirmed case is a hospitalized female in the age range of 50-60 years. The 89th confirmed case is a hospitalized male in the age range of 70-80 years. The 90th confirmed case is a male in age range of 80-90 years and is self-isolating at home. The 91st confirmed case is male in the age range of 30-40 years and is self-isolating at home. The 92nd confirmed case is male in the age range of 20-30 years and is self-isolating at home. The 93rd confirmed case is a male in the age range of 20-30 years and is self-isolating at home. The 94th case is a female in the age range of 40-50 years and is selfisolating at home. The 95th case is a hospitalized male in the age range of 60-70 years. The 96th case is a female in the age range of 50-60 years and is self-isolating at home. The 97th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 30-40 years of age and is self-isolating at home. The 98th case is a female in the age range of 60-70 years and is self-isolating at home. The 99th case is a male in the age range of 20-30 years and is self-isolating at home. The 100th case is a female in the age range of 50-60 years and is self-isolating at home. The 101st case is a female in the age range of 60-70 years old and is self-isolating at home. Of the 101 confirmed COVID-19 cases, 58 confirmed cases (57%) are White Non-Hispanic, 39 confirmed cases (39%), are Pacific Islanders, and 4 confirmed cases (4%) are Hispanic. The age range is 19-90 years of age. 57 females and 44 males are confirmed cases. COVID-19 is community spread, with confirmed cases in the following cities/villages: Celina (44), Coldwater (28), Fort Recovery (3), Maria Stein (6), Mendon (3), Rockford (1), St. Henry (15), and Burkettsville (1). As previously announced, MCHD has been monitoring an ongoing situation at Cooper Farms. At this time, 36 confirmed COVID-19 cases are employed at the St. Henry Processing Plant. There are 30 cases pending COVID-19 results. The MCHD has opened an outbreak at the Gardens-St. Henry due to an employee and a previous resident who have both been confirmed to be ill with COVID-19. The MCHD is working with the Ohio Department of Health on this outbreak. The MCHD continues to monitor all of the Long Term Care Facilities across the county. The Ohio Department of Health releases information on long-term care facilities every Wednesday. That information can be found at https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/dashboards/long-term-care-facilities/cases . If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – May 12, 2020

CELINA- As of May 12, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 86 confirmed cases, 18 recovered cases, 122 pending cases, 341 negative cases, 1 hospitalization, and 1 death of COVID-19.

Of the Mercer County 86 confirmed COVID-19 cases, 43 confirmed cases (50%) are White Non-Hispanic, 39 confirmed cases (45%), are Pacific Islanders, and 4 confirmed cases (5%) are Hispanic. The age range is 19-90 years of age. 51 females and 35 males are confirmed cases. COVID-19 is community spread, with confirmed cases in the following cities/villages: Celina (36), Coldwater (26), Fort Recovery (1), Maria Stein (5), Mendon (3), Rockford (1), and St. Henry (14).

As previously announced, MCHD has been monitoring an ongoing situation at Cooper Farms. At this time, 34 confirmed COVID-19 cases are employed at the St. Henry Processing Plant. There are 19 cases pending COVID-19 results.

The MCHD also reports an employee at the Celina Manor and an employee at the Gardens – St. Henry have both been confirmed to be ill with COVID-19. The MCHD has been in regular communication with all long term care facilities in the county and will continue to monitor the situation. The Ohio Department of Health releases information on long-term care facilities every Wednesday. That information can be found at https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/covid-19/dashboards/long-term-care-facilities/cases.

The MCHD staff are working hard on the rapidly changing situation and will keep the public informed as needed. If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday.

Our Old Bookcase, “Lock-Down Local History Book Class,” for Week # 9, May 2020

Photo caption:  Fort Recovery School House, 1888 – 1953, with a tower; Saint Henry’s old Water Tower, 1909-1971 and St. Henry’s new Water Tower, in 1971, and an old windmill frame on the Eugene Homan farm on Sebastian Road, in Franklin Township, in 1991.  Please compare the Frames on all three photographs to help solve this week’s History Mystery.

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

We Ohioans have been directed, “Stay home for the month,  or more!”  This is my suggestion about how to make your life more interesting, while staying at home, for Week # 9

Last week, I asked you to identify the old photograph of the old Fort Recovery School House, 1888-1953.  There was a tower in that photograph, which I asked you to identify.  I have had several calls with three kinds of suggestions.  Some people called me that the tower was an oil or gas well frame.  Others called me that the tower was a water tower.  Others called me that the tower was a windmill. 

Since I have been working on the book about oil and gas wells, I looked at those photographs.  None of the photographs of oil and gas well derricks looked like the frame on the photograph with the Fort Recovery School.  The oil or gas well derricks appear to be made of wood, with small sheds nearby.

I was looking at old photographs at St. Henry and found this 1971 photograph, which included both the old Water Tower and the new Water Tower.  Look at the base of the old water tower on this photograph.  It appears to be similar to the frame in that old photograph of Fort Recovery’s 1888 School.

Now, look at frame on the windmill.  It appears that the frame on all three photographs appear to be similar.  I found this old photograph when I was looking in my book, “Those Magnificent Big Old Barns of Mercer County,” in Franklin Township on page 253.  I photographed this barn in 1991.  At that time, this property belonged to Eugene Homan, 6213 Sebastian Road, Celina.  Since he no longer used the windmill on top of this frame, he replaced the windmill with a weather vane with a Holstein cow on top.  Compare the frame on this former windmill frame with the frames on the previous two photographs.

I looked at photographs of water towers and photographs of windmills, in history books and on the internet.  I do not know the answer to the question as to the identification of the tower in the photograph of the 1888 school.  This appears to be a “History Mystery.” 

I would think that the Village Council Meeting Minutes would record the construction of this frame, sometime after the school house was built in 1888.  It would confirm the purpose of this frame structure.

“Our Lock Down Local History Book Class” Assignment for Week # 9, is to solve this History Mystery as to the difference between the frame of an old water tower and the frame of an old windmill.  You might look in old farm publications, old catalogs, old photographs of old water towers in local villages, old photographs of windmills.  You might find similar photographs of water towers or windmills on the internet.  I do look forward to hearing from you to help solve this week’s History Mystery.

[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.]

Jeff McIntosh was sworn in today as Van Wert County Treasurer by Judge Burchfield. 

 
May 12-17, 2020 
 

The Parkway High School Virtual Graduation Ceremony will be posted on the Parkway Schools website on Sunday, May 17. In addition, the Seniors Awards Night video and the Senior Class video will be posted along with PDF's of the scholarship winners and the graduation program. The website address is www.parkwayschools.org  

Also, special Graduation Parade is scheduled for Sunday, May 17. A parade of graduates will be going through Willshire, Rockford, and Mendon. Details will be posted on the Parkway Schools website on Wednesday at  www.parkwayschools.org  

Class of 2020 (76 class members) in alphabetical order:
 

Cory Scott Agler

Tori Olivia Albright

Trevor Michael Barker

Colton Gregory Barna

Rachel Leia Barrett

Rachael Renee Beair

Christopher Allen Bechtold

Kaylee Darlene Bixler

Makasha Yvette Bixler

Carley Jean Boeckman

Rachel Elizabeth Breese

Preston James Browning

Aaron Gregory Bruns

Breyden Alan Bruns

Adam Noah Buffenbarger

Ansley Nicole Burtch

Alexis Morgan Cairns

Ashlyn Olive Cornett

Corbin Everett Cox

Zoey Elizabeth Dawn Crouch

Sidney Mae Doner

Chad Thomas Drayton

Claire Catherine Eichler

Thomas Anthony Etzler

Brooklyn Conor Fairchild

Kevin Douglas Fonner

Wesley Thomas Ford

Ryann Kelly Fox

Justin Roberts Frank

Emma Rain Gause

Courtney Marie Harding

Leah Renee Harshman

Katie Nicole Hauter

Jacob Robert Haver

Nicholas William Hawk

Macy Ryan Henkle

Ryan D Hesse

Lily Irene Hipply

McKenna Briann Johnson

Caleb Allen Kinney

Kristine Ann Kirby

Chandler Lee Krogman

Clarissa Jean Krogman

Kaitlin Julianna LaBrun

Mason Quinn Landers

Bryce Anthony Isaac Lowery

Reece Daniel Luginbill

Jason Andrew Luth

Brooke Elisabeth Kay May

Emma Korynn May

Sophia Rose Miller

Caitlin Elise Murphy

Trey Joseph Ransbottom

Hailey Jo Roberts

Kiersten Nicole Roehm

Grace Elizabeth Rogers

Kendall Thomas Roof

Kyle Andrew Roth

Olivia Lauren Rutledge

David John Sheets

Darick John Stachler

Monica Sue Steen

Hailey Nicole Stephenson

Gavin Walker Stober

Violet Rose Eileen Taylor

McKenna Jo Temple

Shaelyn Lirit Thomas

Alexander Charles Tisdale

Corey Mitchell Walls

Alexander Lowell Welker

Ashlyn Elizabeth White

Sydney Renee Yoder

Kaine Michael Younker

Emily Grace Zimmerman

Olivia Renee Zimmerman

Clara Verena Hellwarth (Junior), 3 year graduate

 
May 8-11, 2020 
 

Schumm Reunion Postponed
"The John George Schumm Family Reunion, originally scheduled for Sunday, August 2, 2020 has now been postponed until Sunday, August 1, 2021. With over 250 individuals attending the reunion two years ago, we felt it was safer to postpone due to the covid virus. 

The location will remain the same next year at the Zion Lutheran Chuch Schumm picnic grounds east of Willshire, Ohio..  We will still have all the activities originally planned for this year, including speaker Spank Schumm who will talk about early settler times.  We hope you will mark your calendars for next year on Sunday, August 1, 2021!"

Note from Rockford Mayor - Amy Joseph regarding Rockford Bicentennial celebration

Being our Bicentennial celebration year, this was a super hard decision. It saddens us that Rockford Community Days 2020 and our Bicentennial celebration has been cancelled. It is not worth the risk and our sponsor's donation money can be better used investing back into their own businesses or donated to organizations helping those affected by Covid - 19. We WILL be back and we WILL have a Bicentennial celebration unlike no other in 2021!! We sure will miss all of you! Have a great safe and healthy summer. Enjoy the blessings hidden in these dark times! ?

PERI Chapter Meeting Cancelled

The Mercer County PERI Chapter #13 has decided to cancel its regularly scheduled meeting of Tuesday, May 12, 2020.  This is in accordance with the suggested restrictions set forth by Governor DeWine related to COVID-19 and out of concern for the health and safety of the membership.  The next meeting will be Tuesday, July 14, 2020.

        Those members who wish to pay their 2020 dues of $10.00 may do so by sending to Treasurer, Mary Wright at 809 Ivy Lane, Celina, Ohio 45822.

Rockford Carnegie Library offering limited curbside services to patrons

Following local, state, and federal directives and guidelines, the Rockford Carnegie Library is happy to be offering limited curbside services to patrons beginning Thursday, May 7th.

Patrons may place specific item(s) requests using our online catalog found at rcpubliclibrary.org or by calling the library at 419-363-2630. Make note when placing holds, that items from area Mercer County Libraries will arrive sooner as delivery services from outside of our area are currently suspended with no projected startup date at this time.

Patrons can make general item requests by calling the library. Staff will answer questions and take requests via phone Monday-Friday 10am-6pm beginning Monday, May 4th.

In order to comply with state and federal guidelines, patrons are asked to use the library drop box to return all items. Additionally, patrons will be asked to remain in their vehicles and staff will place requested items in trunks or unoccupied back seats.

Curbside services will run 12pm-5:30pm daily M-F after that. Please pull in the alley between the library and carryout (by the drop box). You may call the library when you arrive or call ahead and schedule a pick-up time.

Lastly, thanks for all the support you have given the library during this time. We are excited to start offering limited services and hope to get patrons back in the library this summer!

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – May 10, 2020

CELINA- As of May 10, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 79 confirmed cases, 18 recovered cases,
61 pending cases, 328 negative cases, 3 hospitalizations, and 1 death of COVID-19.

As we enter into another week with additional reopenings, MCHD urges citizens to continue to take precautions to protect against COVID-19. People can protect themselves by washing their hands often, using hand sanitizer, covering their mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing, and cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces. This also includes maintaining social distancing,
eliminating gatherings of more than ten people, abiding by current restrictions on businesses, and wearing a mask or face covering.

The MCHD staff are working hard on the rapidly changing situation and will keep the public informed as needed.
It’s important to understand when MCHD is notified of a confirmed COVID-19 case, an investigation begins to try
to determine any commonalities between the confirmed cases. Once this information is analyzed, the MCHD
will share information to the public as needed, while protecting the rights of the individuals. We ask the public
to continue to be patient with us as we work through this.

If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – May 9, 2020

CELINA- As of May 9, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 79 confirmed cases, 14 recovered cases, 73 pending cases, 315 negative cases, 4 hospitalizations, and 1 death of COVID-19.

The MCHD reports the 66th case is a male in the age range of 50-60 years. The 67th case is a female in the age range of 40-50 years.
The 68th case is female in the age range of 50-60 years. The 69th case is a male in the age range of 20-30 years.
The 70th case is a male in the age range of 50-60 years. The 71st case is a female in the age range of 50-60 years.
The 72nd case is a male in the age range of 40-50 years. The 73rd case is a female in the age of 30-40 years.
The 74th case is a female in the age range of 10-20 years. The 75th case is a male in the age range of 30-40 years.
The 76th case is a female in the age range of 30-40 years. The 77th case is a female in the age range of 40-50 years.
The 78th case is a male in the age range of 50-60 years. The 79th case is a female in the age range of 20-30 years.
All individuals are self-isolating at home.

Some elective surgeries now require COVID-19 prior to the operation. While there have been some of these tests included in our daily pending counts, the majority of the individuals being tested are sick and need COVID-19 testing.

The MCHD is partnering with the Mercer County Tax Map Coordinator in the creation of an interactive dashboard that will provide additional data about our confirmed cases. We hope to share this within a week.

The MCHD is working extremely hard in keeping up with the rapidly changing situation. The MCHD is working diligently
to keep you informed and we ask that you please be patient with us. We are all in this together. 

If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – May 8, 2020 CELINA

- As of May 8, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 65 confirmed cases, 14 recovered cases, 61 pending cases,
305 negative cases, 5 hospitalizations, and 1 death of COVID-19. THE MCHD reports the 60th case is a female in the age range
of 20-30 years and is self-isolating at home. The 61st case is a female in the age range of 50-60 years. The 62nd case is a female
in the age range of 50-60 years and is self-isolating at home. The 63rd case is a female in the age range of 60-70 years and is self-isolating at home. The 64th case is a hospitalized male in the age range of 50-60 years. The 65th case is a male in the age range of 50-60 years and is selfisolating at home. As our pending numbers continue to climb, MCHD continues to hear rumors that the testing capacity
has increased within the county. COVID-19 testing has not been opened up to everyone in the community. Mercer County
is seeing an increase in the number of individuals who are sick and need COVID-19 testing. MCHD is continuing
to examine all data we are receiving to determine common exposures and we will continue to share information as it becomes available.
If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center
at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – May 7, 2020 CELINA

As of May 7, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 59 confirmed cases, 12 recovered cases, 80 pending cases, 277 negative cases, 9 hospitalizations, and 1 death of COVID-19.

The MCHD reports the 42nd case is a hospitalized female in the age range of 50-60 years. The 43rd case is a male in the age range
of 80-90 years and is self-isolating at home. The 44th case is a female in the age range of 20-30 years and is self-isolating at home.
The 45th case is a male in the age range of 30-40 years and is self-isolating at home. The 46th case is a female in the age range
of 40-50 years and is self-isolating at home. The 47th case is male in the age range of 20-30 years and is self-isolating at home.
The 48th case is a male in the age range of 60-70 years and is self-isolating at home. The 49th case is a female in the age range
of 50-60 years and is self-isolating at home. The 50th case is a male in the age range of 50-60 years and is self-isolating at home.
The 51st case is a female in the age range of 20-30 years and is self-isolating at home. The 52nd case is a female in the age range
of 40-50 years and is self-isolating at home. The 53rd case is a male in the age range of 20-30 years of age and is self-isolating at home.
The 54th case is male in the age of 30- 40 years of age and is self-isolating at home. The 55th case is a female in the age range
of 30-40 years and is selfisolating at home. The 56th case is a male in the age range of 30-40 years and is self-isolating at home.
The 57th case is a female in the age range of 30-40 years and is self-isolating at home. The 58th case is a hospitalized female
in the age range of 50-60 years. The 59th case is female in the age range of 60-70 years and is self-isolating at home.

Over the past 24 hours, Mercer County has seen a significant increase in the number of confirmed cases. MCHD urges residents
to continue to take precautions to protect themselves against COVID-19. People can protect themselves by washing their hands often,
using hand sanitizer, covering their mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing, and cleaning and disinfecting
frequently touched surfaces. This also includes maintaining social distancing, eliminating gatherings of more than ten people,
abiding by current restrictions on businesses, and wearing a mask or face covering. MCHD Is currently investigating the increased cases
to determine whether there are any patterns of common exposures. The identification of patterns will become easier as the amount
of available data grows. We hope to be able to release more detailed information soon. If you have questions about COVID-19,
contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday.

COVID-19: WE ALL HAVE A PART TO PLAY IN PREVENTION

CELINA- In recent days, Mercer County has seen an increase in the number of people who have tested positive for COVID-19. As more new information becomes available, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD), continues to examine and analyze the data in search of common links between individuals who are infected.

“It is important that everyone takes ownership in helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the community,” said Jason Menchhofer, MCHD Administrator. “We cannot let our guard down at anytime while fighting to stop the spread of this virus.”

As of May 9, 2020, a total of 71 cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Mercer County since testing began.
Of those 71 people, 24 are currently employed by the Cooper Farms Plant in St. Henry. MCHD is still investigating
how these people became infected.

The plant employs approximately 700 people, and the leadership team at Cooper Farms has worked diligently, with the guidance
of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), to implement a plan
to protect the employees. Members of MCHD were invited to the plant to see the enhancements made and asked to offer
any guidance for further improvements. The company began its COVID-19 communication the first week of March, with the addition
of further prevention measures starting the next week. The employee communication began with symptom awareness, hygiene reminders,
and cleanliness guidelines.

Ongoing implementation of the company’s COVID-19 plan includes enhanced team member and management prevention protocols.
Anyone entering the building must go through temperature screening and a health and travel assessment. Anyone failing to meet the
set criteria will be sent home. Face coverings are also mandated for anyone in the building and team members
who may be sick during their shift are sent home.

They have also implemented an aggressive sanitizing schedule, physical barriers where team members cannot maintain six feet
of separation, staggered start and break times, and have limited rotation of team members from one area or department to another.

As the response has evolved, Cooper Farms and MCHD have been in frequent communication to ensure all the best steps
are being taken. Although employees of the Cooper Farms plant who have respiratory symptoms are being tested for COVID-19,
testing of all employees is not recommended at this time.

The current situation illustrates that importance of prevention at all levels, from the front-line employee’s personal life to the top
of any organization. For employers, it is especially important to think of this when considering whether a team member should be able
to work. If an employee is experiencing a fever, cough, shortness of breath, or any other symptoms of illness, it is important
for that employee to stay home and avoid spreading the illness to someone else. If a sick employee decides to show up for work,
administrative controls should be in place to keep from admitting that employee to the facility.

MCHD reminds Mercer County residents that we are all in this together, and we all must do our part to protect ourselves and
each other from COVID-19. As more conclusions are drawn from the growing body of data, the health district will continue
to share information and messages of prevention.

 
May 2-7, 2020  
 

Parkway School Board Agenda for a Regular Meeting 6:30 PM via Zoom Virtual
by Sally Cox for May 12, 2020 

Rockford Carnegie Library Board of Trustees Postpone Meeting Date

The Rockford Carnegie Library Board of Trustees will be postponing its meeting until Tuesday, May 26 at 4 p.m.

The 2020 Rockford Lions Club Car Show and Cruise-In to be held downtown Friday, June 19th, 2020 during the Rockford Community Days Celebration has been CANCELED. As 'We Serve' we also care for the health and well being of our community. This is the proper response at this time.

Rockford Memorial Day 2020 Finalization

Due to the existing COVID restrictions, the Rockford American Legion Post 508 will be altering their Memorial Day activities. The annual Memorial Day ceremony held at Hedge’s Park is cancelled. Due to business closures, the Veteran’s Memorial will not be complete and will now be dedicated May 31, 2021.

The Post will honor our fallen veterans at Riverside Cemetery at 10am. Flags will be placed on the grave markers, a 21 gun salute and TAPS will be performed. Any Post 508 members wanting to participate can report to the post at 9:30am.

The Rockford American Legion will also be holding their annual chicken dinner fundraiser from 11am to 1 pm-catered by the Rockford Carry-out. The cost will be $8. This year the dinners will be served in a “drive thru” fashion at the Post. Pres-sale tickets are required, and are available at Rockford American Legion, Barry’s Family Market, and The Rockford Carryout.

Sheriff Jeff Grey Announces Drug Arrest

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today the arrest of a local subject on drug charges. Michael H. Lange, age 37, of 1874 Schroeder Rd., Celina, was arrested on possession of methamphetamine. Deputies from the Ottawa County Drug Task Force contacted Mercer County deputies after an arrest in Ottawa county that led them to Mercer County.

Mercer County deputies applied for and were granted a search warrant for a residence at 3266 Philothea road, St. Henry. Deputies from Mercer County as well as from the Ottawa County Drug Task Force served the warrant and arrested Mr. Lange, who was at the residence at the time the search warrant was executed. He was found at the residence and arrested on an outstanding warrant from the Celina Municipal Court. He was found in possession of methamphetamines exceeding 16 grams.

Deputies also located drug pipes and other paraphernalia at the residence, as well as over $1400.00 in cash. Mr. Lange was arrested and incarcerated in the Mercer County Detention facility. The case has been forwarded to the Mercer County Prosecutors Office for review of additional charges.

Sheriff Grey reminds citizens that his office remains vigilant in its efforts to combat drugs and other criminal offenses. Individuals wanting to provide information or tips to the Sheriff’s Office may do so using the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office website, www.mercercountysheriff.org and using the “Home” tab.

Celina Police Department Make Arrests 

The Celina Police Department stepped up traffic enforcement yesterday, 5/6/2020.  This was a targeted enforcement similar to our HIT operations.  Due to the COVID-19 pandemic traffic enforcement was minimized for the past several weeks.  Full enforcement has resumed at the Celina P.D. with extra caution and the use of PPE.

Through the late afternoon and evening Celina Police stopped seven vehicles.  Various violations included driving under suspension, red light, failure to display plates, bench warrants, failure to signal and the like.  Five people were arrested and incarcerated in the Mercer County Jail.

The incarcerated included, 38 year old Billy Ray Vanover of St. Marys for driving under suspension, 38 year old James Ray Hagaman of Wapakoneta for possession of drugs (meth) and drug abuse instruments, 30 year old Kathleen J. Parfait of St. Marys for possession of drugs (meth), possession of drug abuse instruments, obstructing official business and driving under suspension, 50 year old David M. Hawkins of Celina for a bench warrant and 30 year old Matthew L.W. Monroe of Mendon for possession of drugs (meth), obstructing official business and resisting arrest.  All are scheduled to appear before Judge Speelman in Celina Municipal Court.

Mercer County Board of Health Will Meet - Offers Live Stream for Public 

The Mercer County Board of Health will hold a special meeting at 8:00 AM on Thursday, May 7 in the first floor conference room of the Mercer County Central Services Building.  The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the ongoing COVID-19 response and conduct other general business.  The meeting will also include an executive session to discuss compensation as permitted under Ohio Revised Code 121.22(G)(1).

Due to the limit on gatherings, we will not be able to accommodate attendance by members of the public.  The meeting will be live streamed on the Mercer County Auditor IT Department YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCu_H_arGNh8AlpKjBz6MfUg.

 
May 1, 2020 
 

Van Wert Health Announces Open Call for Photos

Van Wert, Ohio -- Van Wert Health is pleased to announce an open call for photos to be considered for decorating the newest areas
of Van Wert Health - Hospital, which is currently being constructed. The open call is for anyone in the northwest Ohio
and northeast Indiana region, professional or amateur, with no age restrictions.

When patients, family members, and visitors enter through our doors, we want them to feel welcomed in our new space, and your
special photos will be an integral part of that. Photograph submissions may be of any subject, including but not limited to the landscape
of our county, photos of special milestones in your life, or of the people who have shaped who you are today.
Photos may be new or old (as long as they meet the requirements outlined below).
We are building the new Surgery and Inpatient Expansion Project at Van Wert Health for you, the community,
and we want your photos to be one more way for you to be part of the region’s newest, state-of-the-art facility.

Photograph Entry Rules
• Entries may be submitted between May 1 – August 2.
• All photos must be submitted as high resolution digital images (300-600 dpi).
• Photos may be black and white, or color, new or vintage.
• Please include the location where the photograph was taken with your submittal.
• Photographs that include people will ultimately need to have a signed photo release if the photo is chosen. We’ll contact you to complete the release form upon final selection of the photos.
• There is no limit to the number of photographs an individual may submit.
There is no fee associated with entering this open call.

How to Submit Photos
• Upload your photos to vwh.wetransfer.com using the email: info@vanwerthealth.org.
Please include the following information in the message: name, phone number, and location the photo was taken.
Additional Information
• We will contact you by September 4 if your photo(s) are selected.
• Photos will be professionally matted, framed, and hung in the new hospital.
• Finalists will be invited to a special event to see your photo on display.
• All printed photos become the property of Van Wert Health and will not be returned to you.

Parkway Announces Graduation Pick-up

Parkway Srs, Caps, Gowns, cords will be available Sat Morning 5/2 for pick up.  Last name A-E 9-10am, F-M 10-11am, R-Z 11-12pm

Van Wert County COVID-19 Update 4-30-2020

On April 30, 2020, the Van Wert County General Health District, reports 3 confirmed cases of Covid-19. All 3 of the confirmed cases
have recovered. There are currently no confirmed cases hospitalized. Due to changes in reporting guidelines
and more private laboratories testing individuals, in order to prevent inconsistencies, at this time we are unable to report
pending and negative tests. Today, Ohio reports 17,285 confirmed cases of Covid-19, 3,533 hospitalizations and 898 confirmed deaths.
This information is updated daily at 2:00 pm and can be found at http://coronavirus.ohio.gov. The Van Wert County General Health District is providing guidance for reopening businesses on our Facebook page and via email when possible. The guidance can also be found
on our website at www.vanwertcountyhealth.org. Please contact the health department if you have questions, concerns,
or need further guidance regarding reopening businesses. For business specific questions, please call 419-238-0808 extension 105 or bmenchhofer@vanwertcountyhealth.org. The health department would like to remind those businesses that have closed completely
to flush all hot and cold water through all points of use (e.g., showers, sink faucets) to ensure the safety of the water system.
Please contact the health department for more information or if you have questions. The health department has remained
open to the public through the pandemic with limited access and immunization appointments. We will continue to provide our services
to the public while doing our best to protect the health and safety of our staff and the public. If you have questions about COVID-19,
contact the Van Wert County General Health District at 419-238-0808. For information on COVID-19 including ways you can prepare
and help protect the health of yourself and others, go to www.coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1- 833-427-5634).
Information and resources are also available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.coronavirus.gov.

Mercer Health Releases Re-Opening Schedule

Mercer Health will begin to re-open services beginning Friday, May 1st.  The re-opening schedule is listed below.  In addition, beginning, Monday, May 4th, the West and South Entrances at Mercer Health’s Mercer County Community Hospital will be open Monday – Friday, 6 a.m. – 6 p.m.  All visitor restrictions remain in effect.  Mercer Health provides up-to-date COVID-19 information at: https://mercer-health.com/covid-19-coronavirus-information

Opening Friday, May 1st

Cardiology Testing

Medical Imaging/Radiology

Mercer Health Medical Group offices

Outpatient Center, including Pain Management Center

 Respiratory

Surgery, not requiring overnight stay

Opening Monday, May 4th

Community Sports and Therapy, Coldwater location will reopen

Opening Friday, May 8th

Disease Management Center

On-Hold

Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation

Center for Healthy Weight and Wellness

Doctors’ Urgent Care

Hazelnut

Lactation Visits

Outreach Events

Sleep Care Center

The Cedar Table

The Hospitality Gift Shop

Volunteer Services

 
April 27-30, 2020 
 

Doctor Norman Means of  Rockford thanks all of his supporters in his primary run for Mercer County Coroner on April 28, 2020.

Norman Means, MD, of Rockford, a board-certified pathologist and family physician, challenged long-time incumbent coroner Timothy Heinrichs, MD, Celina. Heinrichs won (unofficially) 4,046 - 1581. The term is for four years. Since both men ran as Republicans, and there are no Democratic challengers, Heinrichs will go uncontested to the General Election in November 2020.  

Dr. Means asks everyone to support Dr. Heinrichs as he works more closely with law enforcement to help fight the opiate epidemic that is impacting our community.

Parkway Schools Levy Income Tax Renewal Passed

Voters of the Parkway School District, at the Primary Election on April 28, 2020, renewed a five-year, 1% renewal income tax that generates $1.175 million annually for the district. It was first approved in 1995 and generates $1.175 million annually for expenses including maintenance, transportation, supplies and equipment, utilities, staffing and district insurance policies.

Van Wert Health Announces Health Care Scholarship Winners

Van Wert, OH -- Van Wert Health announced winners of the 2020 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 over 100 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.

“Each year, I am amazed by the accomplishments of our area students. 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 2020 recipients, who will each receive a $1,000 scholarship which may be renewed for a total of 4 years, are:  

• Katie Strayer, Paulding High School

• Jayla Rostorfer, Jefferson High School

• Kylee Hoersten, Ottoville High School

• Claire Eiden, Ottawa-Glandorf High School

• Delaney Eyanson, Van Wert High School

DITCH MAINTENANCE SPRAYING BEGINS

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart is announcing that crews are tentatively scheduled to begin the 2020 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, 2020.  Any landowner having questions or concerns regarding the herbicide application, should contact the Mercer County Engineer’s Office, 4195867759.

Rockford Memorial Day 2020 Update

Due to the existing COVID restrictions, the Rockford American Legion Post will be altering the Memorial Day activities.

The Post will honor our fallen Veterans at Riverside Cemetery at 10 am. Flags will be placed on the grave markers, a 21 gun salute and TAPS will be performed.

The Rockford American Legion will also be holding the Annual chicken dinner fundraiser - catered by the Rockford Carry Out. The cost will be $8 per ticket. This year the dinners will be served in a 'drive thru' fashion at the Post. Pre-Sale tickets are required, and will be available at the Rockford American Legion, Barrys' Family Market, and the Rockford Carryout - beginning May 1st.

The annual Memorial Day ceremony held at Hedge's Park is uncertain, as is the dedication to the new Veteran's Memorial.

Rockford Area Social Distancing Activity

As part of its Bicentennial Celebration, Rockford has created a one of a kind Barn Quilt Trail. Explore the trail on foot or from the comfort of your car -- check out the link below for maps and addresses :)

https://rockfordalive.com/barn-quilt-trail

Thanks to everyone who has joined the Barn Quilt Trail -- we will be updating as we get more quilts done --- check back often !

The Barn Quilts pictured are for sale ! Call Village office if interested 419-363-3032 ext 1
We also have available small 1' x 1' quilts at the Village office .

Free Dinners on Wednesdays at Rockford United Methodist Church

For the past several years the Rockford United Methodist Church has offered FIVE02 on Wednesdays,  a FREE Community Dinner immediately following their Kids Club ministry.  The Rockford United Methodist Church will resume their FREE Community Dinners for a few weeks beginning on Wednesday April 22nd, 2020.  The FREE Dinner for our community will now be DRIVE THRU ONLY from 4:30- 6pm.  This week’s menu includes Sloppy Joes, Baked Beans, Cole Slaw, Chips, and Brownies.   Use the Franklin Street parking lot entrance behind the church to enter.  

Our Old Bookcase, “Lock-Down Local History Book Class,” for Week # 6, May 2020

Photo caption:  Charles C. Hunter, 815 W. Spring Street., Saint Marys, Ohio, was the photographer of the Waterfowl Reserve, but no date was given on the photograph.

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

We Ohioans have been directed, “Stay home for the month,  or more!”  This is my suggestion about how to make your life more interesting, while staying at home, for Week # 6.

First, thank each one of you who shared your memories.  Jan Temple sent photographs of a beautiful old Celina home, at 322 West Livingston.  She told how her Grandparents lived in this home after their marriage in 1911.  Jan told how her Grandmother took care of others prior to her marriage.  Then she married and had seven daughters.  Jan expressed her memories that the large home had seven bedrooms, with a grand entrance.  The wrap around side porch with a summer kitchen was used for canning and butchering.  Jan remembers the day the home was pushed over for the County to use for parking.  I will not be able to drive past the parking lot without remembering that gracious home.

This spring, with this “Lock Down,” I have not driven along U.S. 127, and watched for the geese and their goslings walking in a row, by the highway.  I have not watched for the eagles.  But, that is o.k. since families are staying home, for the purpose of avoiding the Virus crossing our country.  Just because I cannot see the eagles along the lake and cannot see the geese along the Waterfowl Management Area Division of Ohio Department of Natural Resources this spring, does not mean I have forgotten them.  I have those wonderful memories of watching them flying across the lake, over the years.

Once known as the Reservoir for the Miami and Erie Canal, and now known as Grand Lake, this lake not only provided transportation to the Canal, but also has provided us with the beauty which we cannot replace.  Every person who grew up in Mercer and/or Auglaize Counties remembers stories from their youth, in relationship to this Lake. 

“Goose Refuge State’s Best,” was the title of this record of tracing the growth of Canada Geese Flock over the Lake, by Dave LaRoche, Chief of the Grand Lake Wildlife Refuge, in “The Daily Standard,” November 30, 1964, almost six decades ago.  LaRoche stated, “There were 36 islands popular with the geese in 45 acres, and a goose nest for every .73 acre near a channel.  Hunters may hunt from It’s It Channel across to Dayton Club Island to Coldwater Creek.”  The Ohio Department of Natural Resources, stated “The Canada goose management program began in 1956.”  Grand Lake, including the Waterfowl Refuge, is known in Ohio and across the Nation.  Werner Schmiesing’s article “Goose Roundup at Mercer County Waterfowl Refuge” appeared in the Arizona’s “Safari Club,” Fall 2001 issue.

Our “Lock-Down Local History Book Class,” for Week # 6 in May 2020, has been inspired by Charles C. Hunter’s photograph.  This aerial view of the Waterfowl Management Area shows a view of this Refuge that few of us have seen.  Every time I look at this photograph, I value its beauty as well as its educational value as to how the geese and the eagles and their fellow birds see this scene every dawn and dusk.

“Our Lock Down Local History Book Class” Assignment for Week # 6 is to write about your appreciation of the beauty of Grand Lake, along U.S. 127 and the Waterfowl Management Area, Division of Ohio Department of Natural Resources, near Montezuma.  Write about your memories of this area of Grand Lake.  You are most welcome to write the ODNR and thank them for preserving this area, not only for the Waterfowl, but also for the enchantment of the young eyes of future generations of our children.

Do you hear what I hear?  There should be no high-rise apartments preventing our Great Grandchildren from the pleasure of watching these wild fowl flying over head.  You might suggest to ODNR to never, ever permit any power to obstruct the view of this land between the Highway and our Lake.

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

Our Old Bookcase, “Lock-Down Local History Book Class,” for Week # 5, April 2020.

Photo caption:  Joseph Mackey, Sr. with his Cutter, by the former Panning Tin Shop, c. 1912.

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

We Ohioans have been directed, “Stay home for the month,  or more!”  This is my suggestion about how to make your life more interesting, while staying at home, for Week # 5.

First, thank each one of you who shared your memories.  An unexpected source of local history from Virgil Dues and Jerry Kremer was the ten page train wreck report: “Interstate Commerce Commission, Washington, Investigation No. 3161, the New York, Chicago and St. Louis railroad Company, report in Re Accident at Oakland, Ohio on January 30, 1948.”  The Oakland Station (on the railroad) also had the Ferner Post Office, where the train “dropped off their U.S. Post Office mail.”  The 1888 “Mercer County Ohio Atlas,” identifies the site.  This site was on the Erastus Durbin Road, about a half mile south of Philothea Road, between Recovery Township’s Sections 11 and 12.   I would like to have this entire report on Exhibit, if we are able to host an exhibit about Mercer County’s Trains and Railroads in 2021.  Kathleen Shepherd, Lilburn, Georgia, sent me the Facebook page by Gene Smart, who had post cards of the Coldwater Train Station. 

Willis Bud Preston emailed me identifications and histories of several buildings in Montezuma, whereby he grew up in the 1930’s.  I will place this history in the archival collections of Montezuma, Franklin Township.  Mike Feltz, nephew of former Historical Society Volunteer Ray Feltz, sent the story of about the site of the former Mercer County Fair Race Track, in the 1960’s.  Mike’s former home was located at 309 Mill Street, which is in the photograph.  He noted the extension of Mersman’s in the late 1950’s.  Riley Street was at the center of the photograph, where Mike’s sister Pat Meikle served as Director of the Senior Citizens Building.

Mike Baucher wrote about the post card of the former Celina High School, with the 1958 letter from Violet Wells.  Violet Wells is Mike’s first cousin, and is still living in Bellmead, a suburb of Waco, Texas.  She is 95 years old and I shared the history of that School’s post card, which Mike sent to her.

Our “Lock-Down Local History Book Class,” for Week # 5 in April 2020, has been inspired by Janice Buschur, 150 East Main, Saint Henry.  She called to tell me that they had torn down the historic building, adjacent to their home.  The building with the clap board siding may have been built in 1891.  First, Panning Tin Shop was operated by John Panning.  The Panning building was later rented to Mrs. Al Gels and sons in 1930.  They were distributors for the White Mountain Creamery of New Bremen, until the late 1940’s.  In June 1955, Al Vondrell opened a cabinet shop which he operated until 1968.  Jerome and Janice Buschur began Buschur’s Refrigeration & Air Conditioning June 11, 1973.  They first rented this building from Art Bernard., and then purchased the home and shop on May 11, 1981.  As their business grew, they moved their business Buschur Refrigeration to 541 N. Eastern Avenue at St. Henry.  Allen Bernard, St. Henry Historian, sent me two old photographs of “sleighs” taken by the side of this Main Street building.  Allen requested that I use the term, “Requiem,” which is a celebration for souls of the dead.  The term, “requiescat in pace,” is translated to mean, “May she rest in peace,” and inscribed on tombstones, R.I.P.  Thus, for one of St. Henry’s oldest buildings, “May she rest in peace.”

“Our Lock Down Local History Book Class”  assignment for Week # 5 is to write about buildings which are also resting in peace as the buildings are no longer standing.  Since I have also been receiving more stories about train wrecks and the County Fair, you are still welcome to write me about your memories of those two subjects.  When Mercer County Commissioners again employ a County Museum Director, that person can use the histories, which you are sending, to update the 1978 “Mercer County History Book.”

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

Our Old Bookcase, “Lock-Down Local History Book Class,” for Week #4, April 2020.

Photo caption:  Local History Class Week # 4, includes the history of one building, e.g. the October 11, 1980 fire at Cassella Tavern, in Marion Township.

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

We Ohioans have been directed, “Stay home for the month,  or more!”  This is my suggestion about how to make your life more interesting, while staying at home, for Week # 4. 

First, thank each one of you who shared your memories of “Going to the County Fair,” from the Class Assignment Week #3.  Two letters are most timely in the midst of staying home this month.  One of our most recent “Lock Down” events was in 1949.  Fran Gilbault’s book, “The Mercer County Fair, Celina, Ohio, 1852-2002,” recorded the July 29, 1949 “Mercer County Chronicle.”  The announcement was made that the Fair would be held as planned because only three mild polio cases had been noted.  On August 12, 1949 that newspaper reported that the 1949 was canceled because of the polio epidemic.

Norma Skeet Wolters, Coldwater wrote, “My earliest memory of the Mercer County Fair was 1949, the year the fair was cancelled because of the Polio epidemic.  The fair was always the highlight of our summer and Mom would fry chicken and we enjoyed a picnic out of the trunk of our car.  We were so disappointed and too young to really understand.”

Gary Fisher, Rockford, remembered when the Mercer County Fair was canceled in 1949.  He recalled the people who had polio and the stress it brought to local families.  He remembered President Franklin D. Roosevelt was crippled with Polio.  Amy Berish, FDR Library and Museum, wrote that FDR was not only the 32nd President of the United States, but also the first President diagnosed with infantile paralysis, better known as polio, in 1921 at the age of 39.  On April12, 1955, The University of Pittsburgh team, led by Jonas Salk, announced that the polio vaccine was effective in a large-scale field tests.  Recent news across the Internet announced that on the 65th anniversary of the polio vaccine, that the polio vaccine is a source of hope for COVID-19.  This “Local History Book Class” provides an education for everyone.

Our “Lock-Down Local History Book Class,” for Week #4, has been inspired by Virginia (Lochtefeld) Kremer at Osgood.  She wrote about the Cassella Tavern, and the store.  Albert & Bertha Dippold owned the store, named “Dippolds Store,” for many years.  The Cassella Post Office (1878-1905) was gone by that time.  What had been the Post Office was turned into a little snack & soda bar.  Virginia listed the items for sale.  When the Dippolds retired in 1972, Virginia’s parents, Irwin and Marie Lochtefeld purchased “Dippold’s Store.”  Lochtefelds changed the name of the store to “The Cassella Store & Tavern.”  The old post office section became a bar, in addition to the grocery store.  The store was busy during the day and the bar was busy in the evening.  Virginia’s amazing history is six pages long and is filled with stories of the time period.  Thank you, Virginia, for preserving this Local History at Cassella.

Our Class Assignment for Week #4 is your experiences and/or your memories of a particular building, you recall in your past.  A history of any community is made up of small histories of individual buildings and local events.

You are invited to write me and/or email me about the building of your past history for this “Local History Book Class,” for Week #4, April 2020.  I am looking forward to stories never before written.  Remember that you are a part of local history.  The only way that true local history can be written is by putting together all of the local memories by the people who experienced those events, and then placed into context with the history of the entire community. 

Thank you for helping the Mercer County Historical Society to achieve its Mission, To Preserve Local History and To Educate the Public about that History.  

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

Our Old Bookcase, “Lock-Down Local History Book Class,” for Week # 3, April 2020.

Photo caption:  Were you excited, in your youth, to attend the County Fair?

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

We Ohioans have been directed, “Stay home for the month,  or more!”  This is my suggestion about how to make your life more interesting, while staying at home, for Week # 3. 

First, thank each one of you who wrote to me about your interest in local history and how you cut these local history columns out of the paper and keep them.  Thank you for the many book orders of the book about early maps, e.g. 1755 map of “Halfway Cross,” which was at the site of the St. Marys River Crossing of Rockford today.  Our “Lock Down Local History Book Class” for Week # 1 was a success.

For Week #2, the letters about personal experiences with the local trains in your childhood are touching my heart.  Carolyn Kremer, North Star, might be our oldest Student in Class, as she is 81 ½ years young and has “A lot of good old memories!” She told about crossing the railroad tracks across Philothea Road to play with her cousins.  They picked strawberries along the tracks, which were a great treat.  She remembered her mother going into the barn to hand milk the four cows, and found a hobo sleeping in the haymow, because hobos walked and followed the rail road tracks.  Carolyn commented, “I can still hear the train horns in my head; they were loud and intense.”  She is a cousin to Virgil Dues, who called from Florida, asking about the train wreck.  The two cousins have a common interest in trains!

Our “Lock-Down Local History Book Class,” Week #3, is about having fun, the kind of fun you anticipated as a child, and could not wait for the day to arrive.  You could not sleep the night before you left because of your imagination of all kinds of exciting games and friends who would be waiting for you, the next day at dawn.  That’s right!  You were planning to attend the County Fair!

Our Class Assignment for Week #3, is your experiences and your best memories of participating at the County Fair.  The “Local History Class Student’s Assignment,” for Week #3, is the book, “The Mercer County Fair, Celina, Ohio, 1852-2002.”  Fran Guilbault, retired American History Teacher, and Volunteer at the Mercer County Historical Museum during his retirement, edited this book, for the Mercer County Agricultural Society, who were celebrating the 150th Anniversary of their first fair in 1852.  This book should be at local libraries.  Since we are all under Lock Down, you may order a copy of this book for the fine fee of five dollars.  (Our Students do not pay postage.)  We have less than a dozen copies of this book left on the shelf!

Your most important assignment is to share your best memories.  Do you remember the hot air balloons?  Did you win any Blue Ribbons for any exhibits or contests?  Did you take cows or sheep or hogs to exhibit?  Did you walk through the horse barn and imagine racing the fastest horses?  Did you take your best farm produce, or vegetables?  Did you build products from wood or metal?  Did you make new friends?  Did the boys take the girls for a ride on the Ferris Wheel, so they could steal a kiss when no one was looking?  What was your favorite food at the Fair?  I can remember cotton candy, caramel apples, taffy, elephant ears, “whole hog sausage sandwiches,” or hot dogs and kettle corn.  Do you remember the beautiful flowers and the sewing arts on exhibit?  Did you model the clothes you created?  Did you belong to 4-H or other organizations related to the Fair?  What years did you attend the fair and how old were you?  Did you march in the band at the evening shows?  Now that you are grown up, have you volunteered to help with all of the responsibilities of planning and implementing our Mercer County Fair?

You are invited to write me and/or email me about your County Fair history for this “Local History Book Class,” for Week #3, April 2020.  These Local History Class Students are getting better by the week!

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

Our Old Bookcase, “Local History Book Class,” for Week # 2, April 2020.

Photo caption:  Train Wreck at St. Joe, Mercer County, 1938, from Delma Speck Rammel.

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

We Ohioans have been directed, “Stay home for two weeks. . . or more!”  This is my suggestion about how to make your life more interesting, while staying at home, for Week # 2.  Two Mercer County Ladies and one Gentleman gave me the idea for this week’s Class # 2, about Mercer County’s Trains.

First, Virgil Dues called me from the “Florida Fly Wheelers” which is the antique tractor and gas engine show at Florida where Mercer Countians go to spend time in the Florida sun in February.  My husband Alvin always looked forward to the Show, as well as visiting our daughter and her family in Florida.  Virgil told me that he and his fellow Mercer Countians were trying to learn more about a train wreck on Township Line in Southern Mercer County.  Do you readers recall this particular train wreck?

Delma Speck Rammel donated photographs and school records and papers related to Mercer County’s history.  The three photographs of the 1938 Train Wreck at St. Joe, near Fort Recovery, Mercer County, are shown above.  I remembered that “The Daily Standard” had carried a photograph of Bruce Miller, President of the School Board of Education, presenting Delma Speck Rammel her St. Henry High School Diploma, in June 2012.  When Delma was 10 years old, her mother passed away and Delma could not graduate with her Class of 1944.  She married Fred J. Rammel October 16, 1946.  On June 11, 2016, Delma celebrated her 90th Birthday Party.  Today, Delma’s 1936 photographs of the Train Wreck at St. Joe will educate not only her former 1944 Classmates, but also a lot of younger school students.

Third, Mrs. Newman B. Clapp III, Celina, called me that her husband had passed away on February 17, 2020.  Mr. Clapp had a collection of historic books, photographs, publications, etc., all related to trains.  Mrs. Clapp wished to preserve the History of Trains as well as her husband’s memory with his impressive collection, and she donated his collection of books about Trains to the Mercer County Historical Society.

Our “Local History Class Student’s Assignment” for Week #2, has two Assignments.  First, I ask you to write down your memories of your Train Rides of your past.   My favorite memories of Train Rides were the times that Alvin would take me on rides on the Trains with Steam Engines, through the Rocky Mountains at Durango, Colorado.   Second, I will ask you to learn about the history of the Trains you remember right here in Mercer County.  You can easily check out the local history books of these villages.  The Cincinnati, Hamilton, and Dayton Train went through Maria Stein, Chickasaw, Montezuma, Celina, Mercer and Mendon and headed north east.  The Cincinnati Northern Train went through Burkettsville, St. Henry, Coldwater, Celina, Tamah, and Rockford and headed north.  The Lake Erie and Western Train went through Fort Recovery, St. Joseph, Ferner, Coldwater, Celina, and headed east on the north side of the Reservoir.  Will you write down your memories of seeing these trains go through your nearby Villages?  Do you have any information or memories about train wrecks?  Our local history readers in the Counties of Van Wert, Auglaize, Darke, and Jay County, you are invited to join us in our quest for train history.  You can write about your train history for your local Historical Society.

My hope is to host an exhibit about Mercer County’s Trains, next year, in 2021.  I look forward to exhibiting books, photographs, and local history stories.  I do hope you will share your memories about Trains with the Mercer County Historical Society, so that we can host this exhibit next year. 

You are invited to write me and/or email me about local train history for this “Local History Book Class,” for Week # 2, April 2020.  Will you help with planning an exhibit about trains for 2021? 

Please share your ideas with me about receiving a “Certificate of Graduation for these “Local History Book Classes,” while we are under “Lock Down during this current international Virus?”  And then, after everything returns to normal, you can tell me if you think we should continue these “Local History Book Classes,” in the future.  Thank you.

 [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.]  

 
April 21-26, 2020 
 

Baltzell Siblings Announce New Sister

Sam, Jake, Lydia and Eli Baltzell are proud to announce the birth of their new baby sister Charlotte Elise.  She was born on April 17, 2020 at 1:42 PM at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio.  Charlotte weighed 6lbs and 10 oz, and was 20.25 inches long.  She is the fifth child to join the family of Dr. Tom and Dr. Ann (Bonvillian) Baltzell of Dublin, OH. 

Grandparents include: Paul and Kathy Bonvillian and Sheila Baltzell-Linn and Mark Linn of Celina; great grandparents include: Lela Siebert and Paul Bonvillian, Sr. of Celina. Late grandfather is Larry Baltzell and late great-grandparents are: Lois Bonvillian, Paul Siebert, Fred Baltzell and Martha Baltzell.

Click here to read Rockford Village Council minutes April 21, 2020 by Fiscal Agent Lisa Kuhn

Rockford Community Announcements and events:

Wednesday - April 22 – Rockford United Methodist Church – drive thru Community Dinner     *note new time 4:30 – 6 pm

Saturday - April 25th – Parkway Food Pantry – Pre packaged food boxes from 9 am – 11 am on East Columbia St.   Must live in Parkway School District.

Saturday - April 25th -  Rockford Carry Out – Honoring our First Responders

                        Department vehicles on site

Sunday – April 26th – Rockford United Methodist Church / Rockford Belle Community Church sponsoring a Drive-in Worship Experience at the Rockford Community Building at 10 am.    This is will be broadcast on WRKD 101.3.

Tuesday – Mary 12 – Brush Pick up

 
April 11-20, 2020
Happy Easter! 
 

Lakefield Airport Authority Board Meeting

April 13, 2020 Meeting has been CANCELLED.

Next meeting will be held May 11, 2020, unless otherwise notified.

The ONLY way to vote in the OHIO primary is BY MAIL !

1. You must print absentee application
2. Fill out CORRECTLY
3. Mail the Absentee Ballot Application to the Board of Elections.

The last date absentee applications will be mailed from the Board of Elections is April 25th.
The return ballot MUST BE postmarked by April 27 in order to be counted.

This is OHIO STATE wide.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – April 14, 2020
By Kristy Fryman, Emergency Response Coordinator

CELINA- As of April 14, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 13 confirmed cases, 2 recovered cases, 19 pending cases, 114 negative cases, 2 hospitalizations, and 1 death of COVID-19,

The numbers reported daily are cumulative, except for hospitalizations, which MCHD reports as the total number of people currently hospitalized. To explain further, when a hospitalized individual is discharged, that person is removed from the hospitalization total.  They do remain in the positive total count, however.  This method maintains consistency with how confirmed cases are reported on the state and national levels while giving our residents an idea of the current burden on hospitals.

An individual will be reported as recovered from COVID-19 when that individual is released from isolation by MCHD.  An individual who has been placed into isolation due to infection with COVID-19 is released from quarantine when the following criteria are met:

·         At least 7 days have passed since the onset of symptoms.

·         The person has been fever-free for at least 72 hours without taking fever-reducing medication.

·         Respiratory symptoms have improved.

It appears that we are beginning to see the results of the sacrifices made by so many people, as the numbers of confirmed cases of COVID-19 look to be leveling off locally and at the state level. MCHD commends those throughout our community who have stepped up, taken the Stay at Home Order and other preventive measures seriously, and done their part to help limit the spread of COVID-19 in our county. Mercer County residents continue to be tested daily for COVID-19. To maintain the progress that has been made, it is important that everyone stay the course and continue to limit contact with others throughout the duration of the Stay at Home Order, which expires May 1. 

If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM Monday – Friday.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – April 13, 2020

By Kristy Fryman, Emergency Response Coordinator 

CELINA- As of April 13, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 13 confirmed cases, 6 pending cases, 113 negative cases, 2 hospitalizations, and 1 death of COVID-19. 

The numbers reported daily are cumulative, except for hospitalizations, which MCHD reports as the total number of people currently hospitalized. To explain further, when a hospitalized individual is discharged, that person is removed from the hospitalization total.  They do remain in the positive total count, however.  This method maintains consistency with how confirmed cases are reported on the state and national levels while giving our residents an idea of the current burden on hospitals.

If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM Monday – Friday.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – April 12, 2020

CELINA- As of April 12, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 13 confirmed cases, 9 pending cases, 106 negative cases, 2 hospitalizations, and 1 death of COVID-19. 

The MCHD reports the 13th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 80-90 years. She is in self-isolation at home.

The numbers reported daily are cumulative, except for hospitalizations, which MCHD reports as the total number of people currently hospitalized. To explain further, when a hospitalized individual is discharged, that person is removed from the hospitalization total.  They do remain in the positive total count, however.  This method maintains consistency with how confirmed cases are reported on the state and national levels while giving our residents an idea of the current burden on hospitals.

If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM Monday – Friday.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – April 11, 2020

CELINA- As of April 11, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 12 confirmed cases, 13 pending cases, 99 negative cases, 2 hospitalizations, and 1 death of COVID-19. 

The numbers reported daily are cumulative, except for hospitalizations, which MCHD reports as the total number of people currently hospitalized. To explain further, when a hospitalized individual is discharged, that person is removed from the hospitalization total.  They do remain in the positive total count, however.  This method maintains consistency with how confirmed cases are reported on the state and national levels while giving our residents an idea of the current burden on hospitals.

As difficult as it is to refrain from celebrating this Easter weekend with friends and family, the MCHD reminds residents to continue the protective measures and follow the orders issued by Governor DeWine and the Ohio Department of Health. COVID-19 is contagious, it loves crowds, large groups, and right now, there’s no other treatment besides social distancing. Love your families, take care of them – and make sure you stay away from them this weekend.

If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM Monday – Friday.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – April 10, 2020

By Kristy Fryman, Emergency Response Coordinator 

CELINA- As of April 10, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 12 confirmed cases, 18 pending cases, 92 negative cases, 2 hospitalizations, and 1 death of COVID-19. 

The numbers reported daily are cumulative, except for hospitalizations, which MCHD reports as the total number of people currently hospitalized. To explain further, when a hospitalized individual is discharged, that person is removed from the hospitalization total.  They do remain in the positive total count, however.  This method maintains consistency with how confirmed cases are reported on the state and national levels while giving our residents an idea of the current burden on hospitals.

As we look forward to Easter weekend, the MCHD is reminding residents to continue to practice social distancing, do not congregate, and avoid all non-essential travel. MCHD has seen an increase in the number of confirmed cases and individuals being tested this week, so it’s extremely important to continue the protective measures and follow the orders issued by Governor DeWine and the Ohio Department of Health.

If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM Monday – Friday.

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.

Van Wert County Board of Health Meeting

The Van Wert County General Health District will hold their regularly scheduled Board of Health Meeting on Monday, April 20, 2020 at 5:30 via WebEx.  This meeting is open to the public.  The call-in number to join this meeting is 1-408-418-9388 and the access code is 791 370 309.

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.

New water treatment system at 4-H Camp Palmer is completed

The 4-H Camp Palmer staff and board are very thankful for additional grants and donations that have supported a new water system project at camp. The project was completed in mid-March and fully funded.

The following organizations should be recognized for their generous donations to this project: Cooper Family Foundation-$15,000, Power in the Purchase Program (PIP)-$5,625, Fulton County Dairy Association-$3,000, and Williams County Fair Foundation-$2,000.

This project upgrades our water camp-wide infrastructure. Ballmer Construction built a 256 square foot facility that provides the new storage. Culligan Company installed the water softener system. Watson Well Company upgraded the well pump to a constant water pressure, re-routed waterlines from current well to the new water building.

Our future campers and consumers will benefit from better drinking water and cleaner restroom facilities. The water softening system will help keep showers, bathrooms and sinks free of brown, rusty stains due to the current high iron content. This improvement will streamline the hours of our housekeeping, maintenance and kitchen staff. With better water quality and more efficient staff hours, 4-H Camp Palmer can truly focus on its mission of positive youth development.    

For more information about this project or camp, please call 419-237-2247 or email goodson.34@osu.edu  is a non-profit 501c3 organization.

Our News Release: Mercer County Youth to Youth Retreat Held

The Mercer County Youth to Youth (Y2Y) Retreat was held on February 8th from 9 am-9 pm at the Retreat House in Maria Stein. This year’s theme was, “Your Influence Matters” and students were challenged to see how they can impact the world around them through their actions, attitudes and opinions. Sixty-nine 5th, 6th, and 7th grade students attended the retreat this year! Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, unfortunately the March 28th MINI Retreat for 2nd-4th graders was cancelled.

Under the direction of Laura Sanford of Foundations Behavioral Health Services and an adult ally for the Mercer County Y2Y group, this youth-led prevention event was led by nineteen 8th-12th grade students from the Mercer County Y2Y group. Fifteen adult staff also made this event successful. The Mercer County Y2Y group serves many purposes in Mercer County. Y2Y helps to promote Y2Y’s mission – youth empowering youth – and to educate their peers on the dangers of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, along with mental health and suicide awareness. Y2Y teens serve as a link between the youth, their schools, and the community. Y2Y is a place for Mercer County teens to express ideas and opinions while building their leadership skills.

The purpose of this youth-led retreat was to equip students with skills to be a better leader and positive role model in their schools and communities. Youth were divided into Family Groups and participated in six different escape rooms in which they all worked together as a team to complete their missions. These sessions included challenges involving social media and choices, anti-bullying/peer pressure strategies, dealing with stress, teamwork, addiction and communication, and problem solving to unlock their passions and purpose in life. All students also participated in a How To session of their choice to learn a new skill or hobby.

Throughout the day, attendees were the first to preview three videos that were written, performed, and edited by Mercer County Y2Y students called Alcohol vs. Conscience, Vaping vs. Conscience, and Marijuana vs. Conscience. These videos can be found on their YouTube Channel: “Mercer County Youth to Youth,” along with some other helpful resources regarding social media safety. The youth participated in plenty of energizers and were encouraged by Y2Y student Nevaeh Seals in a short presentation about making an impact on the world. The day ended with dancing and free time, the parents/guardians receiving a presentation about Social Media Safety, each family group sharing the facts that their puzzle pieces revealed (which were collected after completing each escape room), and viewing a video of the day’s activities.

Through supportive small discussion groups, innovative team building, and of course fun, participants gained knowledge, created relationships, and built upon skills that will hopefully last a lifetime. Students are also now more confident in their choice to be drug-free and were encouraged to share this message with others.

The Retreats were funded from grants from the Mercer County Civic Foundation and Midwest Electric’s Community Connection Fund. Other sponsors include: McKirnan Brothers, Inc; Gilmore and Delzeith Co., LPA; Pax Machine Works; Mercer County Prevention Coalition; Mercer County DARE Boosters; Preferred Insurance Center; Mercer Health; Grand Lake Health System; Monfort/Vorhees McDonald's; Mercer County Health District; Foundations Behavioral Health Services; Eagle Eye Home Inspections of Ohio, LLC; Celina Walmart; Celina Grand Lake FOE Women’s Auxiliary; and WCSM Radio.

A big thank you to Carl Wuebker for being the Disc Jockey at the Retreat and who is also a faithful adult ally of the Mercer County Y2Y group. We are very grateful to The Retreat House for hosting us this year. Much appreciation goes to the guidance counselors, principals, and school secretaries for their efforts in recruiting students for the retreat and collecting applications, the media for advertising the retreats, the Daily Standard for coming the day of to take pictures, and the community for supporting prevention efforts. 

The retreats would not be a success without the support of the parents/guardians who allow their energetic students to attend, the awesome adult staff, and the talented and dedicated 8th-12th grade Mercer County Y2Y leaders. Those youth helping with the retreat included: Celina HS: Rayne Reisinger (senior), Destiny Anderson, Sam Jenkins, Kaleb Fishbaugh, Dakota Hays; Celina MS:, Keaton Fishbaugh, Hannah Koester; Coldwater HS: Cameron Crowell, Brooklyn Fridley, Jasmine Schulze; Coldwater MS: Nevaeh Fridley; Fort Recovery HS: Ashley Byram (senior), Elena Evers; Parkway HS: Nevaeh Seals; St. Henry MS: Christine Merrill; Vantage Career Center: Violet Taylor (senior); and Home-school students: Sydney, Allison and Megan Baucher.

A special thanks to the adults who led escape rooms: Shelly Moorman (Avoid the Danger Zone), Craig Muhlenkamp (Choices to Breakout), Julie Krieg (Breaking through Emotions), Joan Roll (Baking up a Story), Michelle Muhlenkamp and AJ Kunk (Mission Possible), and Tom Sanford (Getting out of the Game).

Thanks to the adult leaders of the Family Groups: Becca Cotterman, Carl Wuebker, Lisa Vondrell, Amanda Zibrida, Abby Bensman, and Danielle Williams and also our faithful assistants: Roberta Donovan and Deb Guingrich. Additional gratitude to those adults who also taught How To sessions: Lisa Vondrell and Shawn Koester from Upstage Downtown (Boxing and Jazzercise), Carl Wuebker (Critical Thinking Through Board Games), Abby Bensman (Mini Pour Paintings), Shelly Moorman and Amanda Zibrida (Self Defense and First Aid), Amy Carlson (Sign Language), and Craig and Michelle Muhlenkamp (Things that Fly).

If you want more information about the Mercer County Youth to Youth group, please contact lauras@foundationsbhs.org or 419-584-1000, check out our Facebook group, or YouTube channel. Our face-to-face meetings are currently on hold due to COVID-19 but students are staying connected via zoom meetings and many are staying connected by participating in a Youth Mental Health Challenge they have created. For more info about this challenge and how you can participate with friends and/or family, contact Laura through the info listed above.

 
April 4-10, 2020 
 

The Belle and Rockford United Methodist Church are having a drive-in Easter Sunday Service at 10 AM on April 12, 2020.
Vehicles should tune to Rockford WKRD Radio Station 101.3 FM to hear the message from their vehicles. Pastor Chip Steffy will lead the service. The public is invited to attend but tuning in to that station, in the local area, listeners can still hear the message. Stop at Frankie Joe's Restaurant afterwards for a free will donation meal.

Local Veteran Receives Plaque

Kenneth Ross just received a plaque from the Willshire American Legion Post 207. Kenny has been a member of the post for 75 years! He also just celebrated his 95th birthday last month. Quite a feat! A big thank you to Kenny for his years of service, and wishing him many more birthdays!

Parkway School Board Agenda for a Regular Meeting via Zoom Virtual
by Sally Cox for April 14, 2020 

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.

Executive Secretary Seth Baker shares, “We are in a period of time that creates many unknowns for our non-profit organizations. Grant funding during this time is even more important for organizations that are doing the deep philanthropic work of the community. While we are actively seeking grantees for our normal Spring grant cycle, emergency needs directly related to COVID-19 will be accepted any time and will be evaluated immediately.”

This grant cycle unveils a new application process and program. 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 new process allows grantees an easy way to see the status of a grant, check due dates, and submit electronic grant reports (if required). 

“We recommend that applicants carefully read the instructions and reference materials found on our website before registering and starting their first application. If an applicant encounters issues or has questions, we ask that they email info@vanwertcountyfoundation.org.” states, Amanda Miller, Marketing & Resource Development Manager. 

Grant applications and additional information can be found here. Grant applications and all requested materials must be submitted by the close of business, Friday, May 1, 2020, to be considered eligible for potential funding in the current grant cycle.

OHSAA Announces Tentative Details for Spring Sports Seasons

If school facilities reopen in early May, season schedules are in place

COLUMBUS, Ohio –The Ohio High School Athletic Association provided new details to member schools on Wednesday regarding spring sports schedules and tournament information if school facilities reopen in early May.

School facilities are closed through May 1 due to the Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. If the closure is extended beyond May 1, the OHSAA will provide updated information. If school facilities do not reopen this school year, there will not be a spring sports season.

State tournament venues listed below are subject to change.

“If the Governor and Ohio Department of Health deem it safe to reopen school facilities in early May, then we will have a shortened spring sports season that extends into June,” said OHSAA Executive Director Jerry Snodgrass. “I commend our sports administration staff for putting the schedules together working on state tournament sites.”

Wednesday’s memo to school administrators also included details regarding Pupil Activity/Coaching Permits, annual awards certificates, District Athletic Board elections and academic eligibility for fall sports and college-bound seniors. The memo is posted at: https://www.ohsaa.org/news-media/articles/school-administrators-update-april-8

“We continue to applaud each of you for helping provide guidance and leadership to your coaches and your efforts to keep students engaged,” Snodgrass wrote to school administrators in the memo. “This crisis has heightened the awareness that students want to be back in the classroom. Teachers want students back in the classroom. In our solid belief that school-based athletic programs are an extension of the classroom, we hold that same belief for our student-athletes and coaches. Getting kids back with coaches is much more than winning and we feel it a vital part of returning life to normalcy.”

SPRING SPORTS OVERVIEW

-         If school facilities are closed for the remainder of the school year, spring sports will be cancelled.

-         The dates below for each sport are tentative and are based on the Governor’s optimistic direction that schools will reopen May 4.  We will adjust accordingly.

-         The mandatory no-contact period remains in place through May 1. No practices or group workouts may occur through this date, but the OHSAA encourages coaches to maintain electronic correspondence with their student-athletes.

-         With a current return on May 4, the schedules below have been adopted for spring sports. Specific information relative to sectional and district tournaments, playing dates, seeding procedures, game sites, will all be provided in communications from the respective six District Athletic Boards.

-         State tournament venues listed below are subject to change.

-         If for any reason specific sites are shut down due to Governor’s orders, ALL sites will be shut down and tournaments will not be held.

BASEBALL

State tournament dates determined by availability of Akron Canal Park.  

Acclimation Period – May 4-8

Season Begins – May 9

Tournament Entry/Withdrawal – May 11

Tournament Draw/Coaches Meeting – May 17

Sectional Tournaments – May 23-30

District Tournaments – June 1-6

Regional Tournaments – June 11-12

State Tournament at Akron Canal Park (subject to change) – June 19-21

Season Concludes (regular-season games can be played up until this date) – June 27

SOFTBALL

Acclimation Period – May 4-8

Season Begins – May 9

Tournament Entry/Withdrawal – May 18

Tournament Draw/Coaches Meeting – May 24

Sectional Tournaments – May 30-June 6

District Tournaments – June 8-13

Regional Tournaments – June 15-20

State Tournament at Akron Firestone Stadium (subject to change) – June 25-27

Season Concludes (regular-season games can be played up until this date) – July 4

LACROSSE

Acclimation Period – May 4-8

Season Begins – May 9

Tournament Entry/Withdrawal – May 18

Tournament Draw/Coaches Meeting – May 25

Regional Qualifying – May 26-30

Regional Tournaments – June 1-7

State Semifinals – June 8-10

State Championships at Ohio Wesleyan University (subject to change) – June 13

Season Concludes (regular-season games can be played up until this date) – June 13

BOYS TENNIS

Acclimation Period – May 4-8

Season Begins – May 9

Tournament Entry/Withdrawal – May 18

Tournament Draw/Coaches Meeting – May 24

Sectional Tournaments – May 30-June 6

District Tournaments – June 8-13

State Tournament at Hilliard Davidson High School (subject to change) – June 18-20

Season Concludes (regular-season contests can be played up until this date) – June 27

TRACK AND FIELD

Athletic facilities at The Ohio State University will not be available in June, so the state tournament will be split into three different sites, per division. Details are below.

Acclimation Period – May 4-8

Season Begins – May 9

Tournament Entry/Withdrawal – May 25

Tournament Draw/Coaches Meeting – May 31

District Tournaments – June 9-13

Regional Tournaments – June 17-20

State Tournament – June 26-27

State Tournament Sites (subject to change): Division I at Hilliard Darby; Division II at Pickerington North; Division III at Westerville North

Season Concludes (regular-season meets can be held up until this date) – June 27

Van Wert County COVID 19 Update 4-9-2020  Van Wert County General Health District (VWCGHD) continues to report 2 confirmed cases of COVID19.  The Ohio Department of Health reported yesterday thatthere are 5,148 confirmed cases. 

There have been 1,495 hospitalizations, and 193 COVID19 related deaths. ODH updates these numbers daily at 2:00 PM. You 

can find that information here:  https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/ While the number of confirmed cases for Van Wert County remains the same,the health department knows that there is community spread 

happening throughout Ohio.  The VWCGHD recommends that all Van Wert County residents take precautions to protect themselves against  COVID19.    COVID19 can cause mild to more severe respiratory illness.  Symptoms include 

fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.  If you have any of these symptoms, please quarantine at home.  
Older adults, people with chronic health conditions, and people with compromised immune systems are at higher risk for more serious 

complications from COVID 19.  Most people who get sick  with COVID19 will have only mild illness and should recover at home.      New guidance recommends that people wear a mask when in public, such as the grocery store and pharmacy, to help slow the spread of COVID19.  

Wearing a mask will not prevent someone from contracting COVID19, but it can help 
prevent them from spreading it to others especially if they have it, but are not yet showing symptoms.  DO NOT use medical supply masks, 

which must be reserved for healthcare workers, first responders, and people who are  known to be sick.  Persons entering the state with the intent to stay are asked to self quarantine for 14 days.  This includes “snow birds” returning to the area for the 
season.  This does not include truckers, those essential workers who work 
across state lines, and healthcare workers.    

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update
– April 9, 2020

By Kristy Fryman
Emergency Response Coordinator

CELINA- As of April 9, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 12 confirmed cases, 18 pending cases, 88 negative cases, 2 hospitalizations, and 1 death of COVID-19.

The MCHD reports the 12th confirmed case is a hospitalized male in the age range of 80-90 years.

At this time, MCHD reports the average age of COVID-19 confirmed cases is 42. There are a total of 8 females and 4 males who have confirmed cases of COVID-19.

The numbers reported daily are cumulative, except for hospitalizations, which MCHD reports as the total number of people currently hospitalized. To explain further, when a hospitalized individual is discharged, that person is removed from the hospitalization total. They do remain in the positive total count, however. This method maintains consistency with how confirmed cases are reported on the state and national levels while giving our residents an idea of the current burden on hospitals.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – April 8, 2020

CELINA- As of April 8, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 11 confirmed cases, 30 pending cases, 70 negative cases, 1 hospitalization, and 1 death of COVID-19. 

The MCHD reports the 9th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 30-40 years, the 10th confirmed case is a male in the age range of 30-40 years, and the 11th case is a female in the age range of 20-30 years. All are in self-isolation at home.

“As MCHD continues to see an increase in confirmed and pending cases, we urge the citizens of Mercer County to continue the protective measures and follow the orders issued by Governor DeWine and the Ohio Department of Health,” said MCHD Epidemiologist, Deb Scheer.

MCHD continues to do everything we can to maintain a high level of preparedness and keep the public informed. Starting today, MCHD will release daily updates at 12:00 PM through our press releases & Facebook. The MCHD Facebook page is “Mercer County Ohio Health District”.

If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – April 7, 2020

CELINA- As of April 7, 2020, the Mercer County Health District reports 8 confirmed cases, 32 pending cases, 66 negative cases, 1 hospitalization, and 1 death of COVID-19. 

If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – April 6, 2020

CELINA- As of April 6, 2020, the Mercer County Health District reports 8 confirmed cases, 17 pending cases, 63 negative cases, 1 hospitalization, and 1 death of COVID-19.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now recommends wearing face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission. CDC is additionally advising the use of simple cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it avoid transmitting it to others.

The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and first responders. For information on homemade masks and guidance visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover.html

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – April 5, 2020

CELINA- As of April 5, 2020, the Mercer County Health District reports 8 confirmed cases, 13 pending cases, 53 negative cases, 2 hospitalizations, and 1 death of COVID-19. 

The MCHD reports the 8th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 20-30 years. She is in self-isolation at home.

If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – April 4, 2020

CELINA- As of April 4, 2020, the Mercer County Health District reports 7 confirmed cases, 16 pending cases, 50 negative cases, 2 hospitalizations, and 1 death of COVID-19. 

The MCHD reports the 7th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 30-40 years. She is in self-isolation at home.

If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday.

 
April 1-3, 2020 
 

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – April 3, 2020

By Kristy Fryman

Emergency Response Coordinator

CELINA- As of April 3, 2020, the Mercer County Health District, reports 6 confirmed cases, 21 pending cases, 41 negative cases, 2 hospitalizations, and 1 death of COVID-19.  The death was a 71 year-old-male who was recently hospitalized for COVID-19. We will not release any identifiable information about the patient to respect privacy.

“Mercer County Health District staff would like to express our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the gentleman who died,” said MCHD Health Administrator, Jason Menchhofer.

MCHD has been working tirelessly preparing for and responding to the COVID-19 pandemic since we first learned about it. We are reaching out to all known contacts of confirmed COVID-19 cases to make sure we help prevent the spread of the disease. MCHD stresses the importance to limit all non-essential activities outside of the home. If you have to be out, you need to maintain at least 6 feet distance between each other.

If you feel that you may be experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath), there are things you can do at home. Mildly ill patients are encouraged to stay home and contact their healthcare provider by phone for guidance. Patients need to be vigilant in monitoring symptoms and reach out to a healthcare provider if symptoms worsen. Individuals who have been exposed to COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider immediately. Please do not go to the emergency room or urgent care unless you have already communicated with your healthcare provider and called ahead.

We live in a small community, and we ask you to be respectful. COVID-19 has already caused a lot of fears and anxiety, and spreading rumors can fuel panic. If you hear a rumor that is not supported by facts released by our office, ODH, or CDC, please do not spread that rumor.

If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – April 2, 2020

As of April 2, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 6 confirmed cases, 18 pending cases, 31 negative cases, 1 hospitalization, and 0 deaths of COVID-19 in the county.

The MCHD reports the 6th confirmed case is a female in the age range of 20-30 years. She is in self-isolation at home.

COVID-19 is spreading easily in the communities. Because this is a new (novel) virus, everyone is vulnerable to COVID-19. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to it. MCHD stresses the importance to limit all non-essential activities outside of the home. If you have to be out, you need to maintain at least 6 feet distance between each other.

If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday.

 
March 30-31, 2020 
 

21^st Century Club Meets In February

The Twenty First Century Club met on February 25, 2020 at the Rockford United Methodist Church Café for a regular meeting. President Toni Fisher called the meeting to order. Roll-Call was completed with everyone naming one’s favorite ice cream. The treasurer’s report was given. Cereal is needed at the food pantry.

Minutes were read and approved.

Karla Butler, Chair of the Bicentennial High Tea, then passed out checklists of different committees and scenarios planned for May 3, 2020 – THIS EVENT HAS NOW BEEN CANCELED FOR THE IMMEDIATE FUTURE!

“Our Story” the theme for the year was continued by Karla Butler and Karen Nuttle, daughters of John and Martha (Shaffer) Sidenbender. Karla and Karen did their research by pinpointing where their parents’ families were when Shanes Crossing was founded in 1820. Other families explored were: Hisey; Shaffer, Sidenbender, and Williams.

Karla  went 8 generations back to George Hans Hisey, when in 1751, he left Holland (Southern Germany) and traveled to Philadelphia. By 1820, several of his descendants had already settled and were farming 240 acres of land in Jefferson Township, Adams County Indiana. Karla’s grandmother, 7^th generation descendant Velma Hisey, married Leo “Pete” Shaffer in the early part of the1900’s and had 10 kids including Karla’s mother, Martha (Generation 8). Jonny Sidenbender and Martha Shaffer married and had 4 daughters (Generation 9) including: Karen, Kaye, Kelley and Karla. She continued with the Shaffer side by reporting that Leo George “Pete” Shaffer was born in 1896, met and married Velma Hisey. Pete’s father, John Simon Shaffer II, was grandson to George Adam Shaffer I who owned 80 acres of land on County Line Road (Mercer and Van Wert Counties). George came to America from Strasburg, Germany and traveled to Mercer County where he met up with none other than Anthony Chen (Shane) founder of the Shanes Crossing outpost. George bought the aforementioned 80 acres of land from Shane for $1.25 an acre.  George met Margaret Schneider on the voyage over and they married. On an 1888 map, Karla pointed out the Shaffer train station named after George, who was also an elected official.

Karen continued with the Sidenbenders and the Williams families. She was pleased to report that at least 8 generations of the Sidenbender Family were members of the Rockford Methodist Church and that the 1st generation in America/Shanes Crossing, Joseph Sidenbender, led the first Methodist class, and later a class met in the home of Joseph and wife Anna (Van Gundy). The first official Methodist church building was eventually built on the site of the Old Presbyterian Church, now known as the Belle. And, Sidenbender Pike, which is now US Route 33 east of Rockford was shown by Karen on an old map. It is along US 33 that William Oscar Williams (grandfather of Jonny Sidenbender) bought the farms where Karen and Karla now live. Some of that land remains in the Sidenbender family to this day. 

Ann Shook Gage then engaged the group with many delightful mementos from her family. As the only living Shook on her side of the family, she has inherited the last heirlooms as aunts and uncles have passed including the Shook Family Bible, which she displayed. She passed Genealogy scrapbooks prepared by her daughter, Leah Gage Etgen, which were a state 4-H project, when she was 10 and prepared everything by hand. There were many wedding pictures and baby portraits. Ann also displayed a wedding dress and a baby's christening veil. Two important ancestors were: General Thomas Gage who fought in the Civil War; and Buffalo Bill Cody, a relative. Her family names include: Shook who married her mother – a Brookhart and her grandmother was a Roetger. On the Roetger side, her grandmother only spoke German. They had no hot water or electricity in their home. On the Hegemeier side, her grandfather was the bread winner for a huge family. They all spoke German. Showing a photograph of him with the machine, Ann explained her father, Mr. Shook, ran a steam shovel at the Rockford Stone Quarry, and her mother was a nurse for Mercer County Health Dept. Ann has the privilege of being the very first child in Mercer County to receive the Polio Vaccine.

All club meetings have been postponed, and the Bicentennial High Tea is canceled and will be rescheduled at a future date.

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates during the Pandemic

Bicentennial Committee Reschedules for May

The Rockford Bicentennial Committee will cancel the April meeting and
plan to meeting again on May 4th at the Rockford Village Hall at  7pm.

Parkway Schools Announces Changes on March 30, 2020

Parkway Schools reports that with the extension of Social Distancing by President Trump as well as Governor DeWine’s extension for schools being closed through April 30, 2020, the HS Prom has been rescheduled for May 9th.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update

March 30, 2020 CELINA- As of March 30, 2020, The Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 2 positive cases, 11 pending cases, 21 negative cases, 1 hospitalization, and 0 deaths of COVID-19 in the county. According to the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), the modeling currently suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic will peak around April 25, with over 9,000 new cases per day in Ohio. Over this past weekend, the number of confirmed cases in Ohio approximately doubled. The MCHD stresses to the public the importance of following the ODH Director’s order that all persons stay at home unless engaged in essential work or activity. To help slow down the spread of the virus, citizens must follow the guidelines established by ODH. MCHD urges you to get your information from trusted sources. The potential for misinformation and rumors during the time of public health threats is high. We encourage you to get information from sources such as ODH Coronavirus website and CDC Coronavirus website. You may also call the MCHD COVID-19 call center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday. Finally, we ask the citizens of Mercer County to please be kind and respectful. We are all in this together. The MCHD is working diligently to keep you informed. If you have any questions, please contact the Mercer County Health District at 419-586-3251.

21st Century Club Bicentennial Tea Planned for Sunday, May 3, 2020 - POSTONED!

Tickets go on sale Thursday, March 19, 2020 for the Rockford Bicentennial High Tea planned by the art and literary club in Rockford called the  21st Century Club. Seating is limited. Tables of 8 for groups are available.

The event will be held at the Shanes Park Community building from 1-2:30 PM on Sunday, May 3, 2020. Tickets will be available at the Rockford Village Office (419-363-3032) beginning March 19. The tea is for folks 13 years and older.  A $20 ticket provides the attendee with tea (or water), fresh-baked scones & toppings, unique sandwiches, and an array of sweets.

All three courses will be served to guests by the club members. Beautifully decorated tables are being planned, and old time musical entertainment will be provided by Chatt native Paula Stephenson Schumm on two dulcimers and an autoharp. Her instruments are hand-made by her husband, Rockford native Herb Schumm.

Attendees of this event are encouraged to dress in any period they choose with hats and gloves or other accessories. Bringing your favorite teacup is also an option.  All proceeds from this event will go to the Rockford Bicentennial Committee for future activities in 2020. Call 419-733-3326 for more information.

POSTONED!

Our Old Bookcase, “Local History Book Class,” for Week # 1, March 2020

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

Photo caption:  Can you identify “Halfway Cross” on Mitchell’s 1755 Map of North America?

We Ohioans have been directed, “Stay home for two weeks. . . or more!”  I have a suggestion about how to make your life more interesting, while staying at home.  Four local citizens gave me an idea!

“Would you teach some Local History Classes?” is one request I received.  The other three requests came from men whose wives were cleaning house and threatened them, that they should get rid of their collection of New Idea Manuals, etc., or she would do it for them.  Those men donated their collections to the Mercer County Historical Society yet that afternoon.  One person asked for local history classes; the other three asked the Historical Society to save their local history books.  I have a suggestion.

I will introduce you to a local history book each week, which you can read in an afternoon or evening.  I will provide a short introduction to a local history book, which will inspire you to want to learn about this very land in mid western Ohio where you go about your daily lives. 

The First Week’s “Local History Book Class” is about the history of the land between the Saint Marys and Wabash River Valleys, illustrated by early maps, 1755 – 2020, as a part of northwestern Ohio.  Look very closely at the 1755 map above.  On the left side of the map, you will see the Wabache River, i.e. Wabash River.  On the right or east side of that River is the word NATION, but you can only see the first three letters, of which the first letter is an “N.”  On the right side of the “N” are the words “Halfway Cross.”  Do you recognize the site?  This question is for your Class of Week # 1.

John Mitchell’s map of the British and French dominions in North America was printed in Amsterdam for I. Covens and C. Mortier in 1755.  Mitchell’s map was used by the European political leaders in preparing the Treaty of Paris in 1783.  The 1755 map was also used in Ohio’s border dispute with Michigan in 1836.  [That’s right, Michigan State and Ohio State were arguing about land yardage back in 1836!] 

Mitchell’s map was one of the earliest maps to identify a site in Mercer County, near the site of Rockford, or Shane’s Crossing, as “Halfway Cross.”  “Half way Cross” is a site on the Saint Marys River, identifying the Crossing of the Saint Marys River, halfway between Pickawillany [near present day Piqua, Ohio] on the Great Miami River and the Native American Village Kekionga at the confluence of the Saint Marys and Saint Joseph Rivers [present day Fort Wayne, Indiana].  The map was not perfect, but it was good in consideration of the explorers in the wilderness in the 1770’s for the cartographers.

The land between the Saint Marys and Wabash River Valleys was the land where Mercer County, was to be established in 1820, when fourteen counties were erected in Northwestern Ohio, north of the 1795 Greenville Treaty Line.  This book will provide you with the highlights of Local History, from 1755 – 2000.  You can then use this book as a Handbook when you read more books about local history.

The book for this first week of class is “Mercer County, Ohio; History of the Land between the Saint Marys & Wabash River Valleys, Illustrated by Early Maps, 1755 – 2000.”  This book was published by the Mercer County Historical Society, Inc. and printed by the Messenger Press, Carthagena, in 2000.  You may order a copy of the book for five dollars and I will send it to you.  Because you are Students in this “Local  History Book Class,” postage will be free. 

Please stay well.  When our Ohio Government opens public buildings again, you will be able to borrow our local history books from our local libraries for free.  If you know the site of “Halfway Cross,” for this “Local History Book Class” for Week # 1, let me know.  Thank you for your interest in local history.

 [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.]  

Vantage Senior Receives the President’s Volunteer Service Award

Kaylie Tressler, 18, of Paulding, Ohio, a senior in the Ag and Industrial Power Technology program at Vantage Career Center, has been honored for her exemplary volunteer service, on behalf of The President of the United States, with a President’s Volunteer Service Award.

This award, which recognizes Americans of all ages, who have volunteered significant amounts of their time to serve their communities and their country, was granted by The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program. Vantage Career Center nominated Kaylie for national honors this past fall in recognition of her volunteer service.  

“I began doing community service during my years in 4-H, where it was a requirement to complete a community service activity each year. Even though I was young, I began to understand the feeling of knowing I could make a difference,” says Kaylie. “In my high school years, where I began FFA, I had the opportunity to participate in various community service activities. It opened my eyes and made me realize how many people are affected by hunger. It has made me more dedicated to community service, because there is not a single person on this earth that deserves to go without food, or running water, or necessities needed for their everyday life. I have gained a love to serve my community, and my love will never end.”

Kaylie has participated in several volunteer opportunities, giving back hundreds of hours to communities, through events such as, FFA Fights Hunger, Relay for Life, 5th grade field day, Kenn-Feld kid’s day, Van Wert County United Way Day of Caring food drive, Van Wert County Council on Aging’s Snowflakes for Seniors, Vantage Step Into Your Future Camp, and many local festivals and county fairs.

“Kaylie is just an all-around outstanding student. She is someone who will volunteer to help out anytime you ask her. She is a leader in her lab and a true leader in the school also. Kaylie will definitely be missed when she graduates but will have a great future in front of her,” says Vantage school counselor James Fisher.

In its 25th year, The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, sponsored by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), recognizes middle level and high school students across America for outstanding volunteer service.

“Across the United States, young volunteers are doing remarkable things to contribute to the well-being of the people and communities around them,” said Prudential Chairman and CEO Charles Lowrey. “Prudential is honored to celebrate the contributions of these students, and we hope their stories inspire others to volunteer, too.”

“Demonstrating civic responsibility through volunteerism is an important part of life,” said NASSP Executive Director JoAnn Bartoletti. “These honorees practice a lesson we hope all young people, as well as adults, will emulate.”

Prudential Spirit of Community Award application details were distributed nationwide last September through middle level and high school, Girl Scout councils, county 4-H organizations, American Red Cross chapters, YMCAs and Points of Light Global Network members. These schools and officially designated local organizations nominated Local Honorees, whose applications were advanced for state-level judging. In addition to granting President’s Volunteer Service Awards, The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards selected State Honorees, Distinguished Finalists and Certificate of Excellence recipients. Volunteer activities were judged on criteria including initiative, effort, impact and personal growth.

Kaylie is a senior in the Ag and Industrial Power Tech program at Vantage, where she is a Student Ambassador, Vantage Chapter FFA President, and National Technical Honor Society member. Through the Vantage Adult Education, Kaylie is currently in the Class A CDL program, where she will earn the opportunity to sit for her Class A CDL license exam upon graduation. Kaylie is in the Career Advanced Placement program (early placement) working for Heritage Farm Equipment located in Van Wert, Ohio and is taking college credit plus through the University of Northwest Ohio.

“I will continue to attend the University of Northwestern Ohio in the Fall of 2020, where I will begin my Bachelor’s degree of Agricultural Equipment Supervision. This degree includes two years of working on the equipment, and two years of the business side. I want to open an agriculture equipment shop in an area, which will benefit local agriculture community members. I am a female in a male-dominated field, and I want to use my experiences to show girls growing up that every female does not have to work in the office. I know a lot of progress has been made on females in male-dominated jobs, and I want to make a difference to show what is possible.

Vantage high school and adult students have the opportunity to build skills in innovative and advanced technical labs, on and offsite, often through business partnerships and community collaboration. Vantage students gain advanced technical skills, earn industry recognized credentials, college credit, and are both career and college bound.

Vantage Adult Diploma Recipients

Congratulations to Kylee Temple (above) and Cassandra Oates (below) for completing the Vantage Adult Diploma program. Through the Adult Diploma program Kylee Temple has earned her Class A CDL license and secured a new job hauling asphalt at a starting wage of $20.00 an hour. Cassandra Oates has completed the STNA program and has achieved a 14 composite score on her Work Keys. Cassandra plans to enroll in the Vantage Practical Nursing program in the fall of 2020.

The Vantage Adult Diploma Program provides job training and a new pathway for adults, ages 22 or older, to earn a high school diploma and industry credentials aligned to one of Ohio’s in-demand jobs. Vantage is currently offering STNA, Truck Driving, and Welding as pathways to the Adult Diploma. To find out more about the Vantage Adult Diploma program, call the 419.238.5411 x2121.

Recently, Rockford RoadDog partnered with the Rockford Bicentennial fund to donate .01¢ per gallon of fuel sold for  the month of February.  Today we are excited to announce that we have donated more than $700 to the celebration thanks to your support!! Don't forget, this partnership is continuing through the end of March! So stop into the Rockford RoadDog  to support the cause today!

Our Old Bookcase, March 19, 2020, New Idea Co. Advertisement Collectors

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Photo caption:  New Idea Farm Equipment Advertisement Collections & Toys will be on exhibit at the Mercer County Historical Museum Sunday afternoon, March 29. Event Canceled

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

Sunday afternoon, March 29, 2020, a Collection of New Idea Farm Equipment Advertisement Collections and Toys will be on exhibit at the Mercer County Historical Museum, 130 East Market, a block east of the Mercer County Courthouse in Celina, 1:00 – 4:00. Event Canceled

The first 25 families to arrive will receive a free copy of the rare book “100th Anniversary of New Idea Company.”  These Centennial books have become a part of Collections for former New Idea Company employees.  This may be your last chance to acquire a copy of this historic book.  Also, ask for a copy of the 2020 Brochure of Events, by the Mercer County Historical Society.

Do you recognize each of the New Idea Farm Equipment Advertisements in the photo above?

What year did New Idea begin manufacturing the “Horse and Tractor Drawn Manure Spreaders?”  Who remembers sitting on the “New Idea Transplanter?”  Who owns a “New Idea Lime Spreading Attachment?”  Who used the “Tractor Drawn  Mowers?”  The Side Rakes and Tedders were used; who can identify a “Tedder?”  Who owns a “One or Two Row Corn Picker?” 

Who can identify the owner of the “Hay Loader” on the cover of the book, “New Idea Company’s Hay Tools, 1931-1999?” 

The New Idea Historic Preservation Committee has published four New Idea history books, with the Mercer County Historical Society.  The first two books are sold out:  “The New Idea Horse Drawn Manure Spreaders,” and “The New Idea Corn Pickers.”  A few copies of the book, “New Idea Company’s Uni-System,” are still available.  The most recent book, “New Idea Company’s Hay Tools, 1931-1999” is still available on Sunday afternoon March 29. 

Attention:  Collectors of New Idea Company Advertisements and New Idea Company Toys are invited to show highlights of their collections at the Mercer County Historical Museum, Sunday, March 29, 2020.  (No, do not bring your entire collections because we would need a stadium to show everyone’s New Idea Collections.  Just bring your favorite advertisements and/or toys.) 

Our Old Bookcase, March 5, 2020, Oil heaters for apple orchards

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Photo caption:  The oil heaters protected apple orchards from frost in the 1909 photograph.

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

Today, we honor John Chapman, better known as Johnny Appleseed.  March 17 is honored at St. Patrick Day.  The following day, March 18, was the day John Chapman died in 1845.  Take time to eat an apple on March 18, as a salute to Johnny Appleseed.

Apples were on the dinner tables of pioneer settlers across the United States.  Soon, they were planting apple trees for orchards.  By the turn of the century, with the discovery of oil wells and the various uses of oil, oil heaters were planned and implemented for a multitude of uses.  In 1909, oil heaters were used in orchards to protect the apple trees, when temperatures were dropping.  In orchard heating, the fuel had to be easy to light.  A fuel had to be able to burn a long time, and would give out a great amount of heat.  The heater had to be easily controlled in regard to the temperature.  Oil was best for heating, but where oil was scarce and coal abundant, coal would cost less.

Several companies manufactured oil heaters after the turn of the century, when oil wells began producing oil.  One oil heater was manufactured by a firm in Fresno, California, where fruit orchards were in existence.  A successful orchard oil heater had a center draft tube that fed oil to the flames, and promoted combustion, and made good use of the oil.  The heater held about five quarts of oil, and would burn six or seven hours.  The heater was made of 28 gauge iron and weighed nearly 2 pounds.  It stood less than a foot high.  When being shipped, the heaters could easily be stacked.  The cover fit the heater in a manner similar to a lard can lid, which was raised in the center so that it would shed water, when placed in the orchard.

As shown in the photograph above, several oil heaters were placed throughout the orchard.  The heaters in the photograph held seven quarts of oil and burned for ten hours.  Credit for the photograph and history is given to the “U.S. Department of Agriculture 1909 Yearbook,” published at Washington, at the Government Printing Office, 1910.

I remember apple trees at our home.  Apples were used to pack school lunches.  Apples had multiple uses in the kitchen.  Apple pies, apple dumplings, apple sauce, and apple salad were great dishes in the past, and they are good choices for meals today.  Do you remember having apple dumplings with fresh cream when you were a child?  You cannot purchase cream of that quality today. 

Of course, everyone recalls Jonathon Chapman, i.e. Johnny Appleseed.  The best known person in Mercer County’s history about apple trees is John Chapman, also known as Johnny Appleseed.  John Chapman’s birth date was September 26, 1774.  He died March 18, 1845, and is buried at Fort Wayne.  The early Mercer County History books carried stories about Johnny Appleseed, and nearby county history books also included history about Johnny Appleseed.  He established apple orchards in states across the Midwest. 

On March 18, lift a glass of apple cider in honor of our historical hero, Johnny Appleseed.

 [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.]  

Parkway 3^rd Quarter Honor Roll
by Lisa Miller, HS Secretary

SENIORS

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Cory Agler, Rachel Barrett, Carley Boeckman, Aaron Bruns, Breyden Bruns, Alexis Cairns, Zoey Crouch, Courtney Harding, Macy Henkle, Lily Hipply, McKenna Johnson, Kristine Kirby, Jason Luth, Grace Rogers, Kyle Roth, Olivia Rutledge, Hailey Stephenson, Shaelyn Thomas, Alexander Tisdale, Ashlyn White

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Tori Albright, Ansley Burtch, Claire Eichler, Leah Harshman, Clarissa Krogman, Sophia Miller, Hailey Roberts, Kiersten Roehm, McKenna Temple, Sydney Yoder

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Sidney Doner, Katie Hauter, Ryan Hesse, Caleb Kinney, Bryce Lowery, Brooke May, Gavin Stober, Corey Walls, Emily Zimmerman

JUNIORS

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Avery Boroff, Kaden Boroff, Remi' Fokine, Lydia Miller, Kelsey Nichols, Elijah Rich, Mackenzie Springer

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Makena Boeckman, Treya Conn, Alexzandra Cottman, Justan Felver, Zoie Huffman, Claire Rutledge, Makenna Schumm

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Grace Etgen, Brendan Etzcorn, Graham Farmer, Savanna Freeman, Sierra Freeman, Madalyn Heindel, Claire Langenkamp, Brayton Luginbill, Andrea Miller, Chaz Neuenschwander, McKayla Sites, Tyler Tinkham, Sydney Waters

SOPHOMORES

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Leah Eichler, Lily Haver, Danielle Huff, Riley Samples, Benjamin Sheppard, Blake Strickler

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Kameryn Altenbach, Alex Anderson, Jace Armstong, Grant Bollenbacher, Hunter Bruns, Cami High, Raegan Roehm, Jacob Rogers, Gabriel Schaaf, Chantry Simon, Ashtyn Sipe, Caden Slusher, Gracyn Temple, Briana Webb

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Cora Barna, Elise Darrigan, Dakota Fuson, Alexander Gile, Ashley Hague, Jaden Hileman, Molly Hileman, Paige Jackson, Lillian Naseman, Yanjing Poveda Llorens, Makenzie Stephenson, Avamaria Strunk, Montanna Vann

FRESHMEN

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Colby Bentz, Aaron Cron, Colin Fokine, Carter Hellwarth, Jackson Kraner, Corban Rich, Hutch Ridenour, Emily Schaefer, Derek Smith, Brooke Stephenson, Gabrielle Stober

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Avery Cole, Gavin Dicke, Brayden Frank, Trenton Garwood, Madison Gile, Taylor Gruss, Caden Heindel, Madison Jacobs, Emiree Knittle, Roman Leszinske, Edin Nichols, Alison Rowen, Bryant Scudder, Emree Sinning, Bryce Stearns, Jason Stienecker, Herminie Williams

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Aaliyah Baxter, Gabriel Brown, Karolann Burk, Brenden Cottman, Skyler Fokine, Blayne Fullenkamp, Desiree Hague, Autumn Herrmann, Adrienne Joseph, Christina Lane, Dakota Mullholand, Andrew Wagner, Jocie Waters, Alyxandra Yoder

 
March 28-29, 2020 
 

How to Donate Hand-Sewn Face Masks to Van Wert Health

Many individuals, groups and businesses from the community have generously offered to help assist Van Wert Health in our preparedness efforts by sewing cloth masks. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not suggest cloth material as a first-line defense against the coronavirus, cloth masks work well for other conditions and can help conserve precious reserves of N-95 respirator masks.

Hand-sewn masks can be dropped off between 7 AM - 7 PM daily at the hospital, which is located at 1250 S. Washington Street, Van Wert.

Van Wert Health will be hosting a "Cloth Mask Drive-Thru Drop-Off" event at the Van Wert Health Center (Medical Arts Building) on Monday, March 30 from 11 AM - 1 PM. Simply pull up under the canopy and an employee will retrieve the masks directly from your car. 

Place masks in a plastic bag and include a note to indicate whether or not there are pets in your home. Donated masks are thoroughly laundered and sanitized before being distributed (cleaning process is different based upon if there are pets in the home).

A recommended sewing pattern, along with suggested cloth materials, can be found on our website >> http://www.vanwerthospital.org/community/covid-19

Your efforts will help make a difference for the people in our community.

Jerry Bolenbaugh presents - Classic Country & Bluegrass Jam - POSTPONED
New date to be announced.

Sunday - April 5th    2 - 5 pm

Rockford Community Building
420 N Holly Lane
Rockford, OH  45882

FREE Event -

Bring your stringed instruments and have fun !

Room to Dance -

Rockford Carry Out Concessions on Site :)

Van Wert County Resident Test Positive for  COVID-19 Case 3-27-2020

Van Wert County General Health District (VWCGHD) reports that a Van Wert County resident has tested positive for COVID-19. No personal information about the case will be released to protect the privacy of the individual. VWCGHD will work to identify and notify any close contacts who may have been exposed to the positive COVID-19 case.

VWCGHD recommends that all Van Wert County residents take precautions to protect themselves against COVID-19. People can protect themselves by washing their hands often, using hand sanitizer, covering their mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing, and cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces. It is equally important to avoid close contact with others and stay at least six feet away from others.

Under the direction of Ohio Governor DeWine, Ohio Department of Health Director Dr. Amy Acton issued a director’s order requiring all Ohioans to stay home to slow the spread of COVID19. The order became effective at 11:59 PM EDT on Monday, March 23, 2020, and remains in effect until 11:59 PM on April 6, 2020. This order prohibits holding gatherings of any size and closes all nonessential businesses.

The Ohio Department of Health reported earlier today on 3-27-2020 that there are 1137 confirmed cases. There have been 276 hospitalizations, and 19 COVID-19 related deaths. ODH updates these numbers daily at 2:00 PM. You can find that information here: https://coronavirus.ohio.gov/VWCGHDcontinues to do everything we can to maintain a high level of preparedness. We are in constant communications with the Ohio Department of Health, regional, county, and community partners. VWCGHD urges you to get your information from credible sources. We also encourage citizens to treat each other with kindness. If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Van Wert County General Health District at 419-238-0808. For information on COVID-19 including ways you can prepare and help protect the health of yourself and others, go to www.coronavirus.ohio.gov or call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1- 833-427-5634). Information and resources are also available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at http://www.coronavirus.gov.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update
CELINA- As of Thursday, March 26, 2020, there are 867 confirmed cases, 223 hospitalizations, and 15 deaths in Ohio. The Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports two positive cases, 13 pending cases, and 1 hospitalization. MCHD is committed to monitoring and promoting the health and welfare of the public. As we continue to monitor situations of COVID19 in the community, the information will be shared as is necessary to protect the public, while also considering the privacy of the rights of all those affected. No personal information about the positive cases will be released. Upon notification of a positive COVID-19 case, the Mercer County Health District staff will begin a thorough investigation by contacting the person who tested positive and obtaining a list of that person’s close contacts. Those people are then contacted and advised that they need to quarantine at home and monitor symptoms. If you have questions about COVID-19, contact the Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Call Center at 567-890-2619 from 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday.

CANCELLED!  Henry Drake - Ricky D. Zizelman American Legion Post # 2019 to be Chartered in Ceremony - It will be rescheduled at a future date when the current health concern is over

The American Legion Dept. of Ohio Commander, Roger L. Friend, will be in Mendon on Tuesday evening March 24th, 2020, 6:30 p.m. at the Old Farm Store, 114 N. Main St. in Mendon, Ohio, to present the 30 new members its signed Charter establishing the Henry Drake - Ricky D. Zizelman American Legion Post # 2019.  Mendon, Ohio.  Commander Roger Friend, is a retired United States Navy veteran, who served during the Vietnam War, and went on to serve his country in the United State Naval Reserves for over 22 years.  As Department Ohio Commander he oversees 540 Post, and its 90,000 plus members throughout Ohio.  He is a member of the American Legion Post #804, St. Louisville, Ohio.  This event is open to the public.

Empty Bowls Dinner Cancelled, Auction Moved Online

CELINA – Our Home Family Resource Center launched the Empty Bowls Mercer County 2020 Campaign in Mid-December with a goal to raise $27,500 never imagining the challenges that they are now facing.

In keeping with Ohio Governor DeWine’s directive to curtail the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the dinner portion of Empty Bowls Mercer County had been cancelled, and the loss of dinner ticket sales, raffle proceeds, and income from the auction puts the organization’s ability to meet this year’s goal in jeopardy.

In response, Our Home is hard at work transitioning the Empty Bowls Auction to an online format. The online auction will be open to the general public and will feature donations from local and regional theme parks, zoos, cultural and sporting events, plus gift cards and certificates from local restaurants and boutiques.  

The online auction will take place on Our Home’s Facebook Page www.facebook.com/OURHomeFRC/ April 4th through April 20th. There will be five (5) items offered per day for 15 consecutive days. Each item will be featured in an individual post which will include a picture and full description of the item. Bidders will have 48 hours to place the winning bid.

The funds raised from this event, according to Our Home’s marketing/development coordinator, Deb Simon-Heinfeld, are vital to the services Our Home provides for Mercer County residents. “We generally say that each “empty bowl” at the dinner represents a different situation faced by the people our programs serve,” Simon-Heinfeld informed.

“And the fact is,” she continued, “even without the dinner, these situations are present and need to be met. That’s why the success of this online auction will be vital. It will directly affect local efforts to respond to many kinds of crisis situations and to continue ‘filling Mercer County’s Empty Bowls.’”

OHSAA Winter Tournaments Move from Postponed to Cancelled  

Winter tournaments of wrestling, basketball and ice hockey will not be completed

COLUMBUS, Ohio –The Ohio High School Athletic Association announced Thursday that the winter sports tournaments of wrestling, basketball and ice hockey, which were postponed indefinitely on March 12, are now cancelled due to the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. It is anticipated that schools will not be able to reopen for many weeks, which prevents interscholastic athletics from taking place.

The start of the OHSAA’s spring sports of softball, lacrosse, baseball, track and field and boys tennis is still postponed, which coincides with schools not being open.

Earlier Thursday, OHSAA Executive Director Jerry Snodgrass and his staff communicated with the schools that were still competing in those winter tournaments to announce the decision.

“We are just devastated that the tournaments cannot be completed,” said Snodgrass. “But our priority is the safety of our student-athletes, coaches, communities and officials. Governor Mike DeWine is asking all Ohioans to do everything they can to stop the spread of this virus. That request, along with our schools not being able to reopen for weeks, means that school sports cannot happen at this time. Even if our schools reopen this spring, it will be difficult to find facilities willing to host the tournaments. Most campus are shut down until mid to late summer.

“We are already planning for ways that these student-athletes will be honored at next year’s state tournament,” said Snodgrass.

The 16 schools that qualified for the girls basketball state tournament and the four teams that qualified for the ice hockey state tournament will all receive state tournament programs. The 672 student-athletes who qualified for the wrestling state tournament will all receive a program, certificate and their weigh-in card.

These four winter state tournaments and a few events during World War 2 (1941-45) are the only sports cancellations in the history of the OHSAA, which was founded in 1907.

No state champions will be listed for these four sports in 2020. The OHSAA does not use state polls from the media or coaches associations to determine state champions.

A reminder that OHSAA coaches can communicate electronically with their student-athletes, but no practices, scrimmages or contests of any kind are permitted until further notice.

Editor’s note – Sadly, this includes the Parkway Panthers Basketball Team Tournament Game

Parkway Middle School Honor Roll by Michelle Agler
End of 3rd Quarter 2019-2020

5TH GRADE

Highest Honor 4.0

Kaden Gause

Lillian Hays

Megan Hughes

Gwyneth Ridenour

Madelyn Stover

Jacoby Triplett

Hailey Vogan

High Honors

3.5-3.99

Mason Ackley

Kelsie Arnold

Charles Bennett

Dylan Bollenbacher

Luke Booher

Rhen Carpenter

Bethany Denney

Aisley Everett

Kara Fullenkamp

Oliver Haines

Faith Kiser

Austin Knapke

Cami Langenkamp

Morgan Louth

Wyatt Pancake

Peyton Pennell

Jaymie Quickstad

Magdalene Rich

Adalynn Rogers

Luke Sheets

Robert Shirk

Lexie Sites

Damen Slone

Jensen Thomas

Samuel Tickle

Riley Vogan

Grace Winget

Tobin Winters

Jonah Young

Honors 3.0-3.49

Davin Baker

Keianna Brantley

Gage Brister

Joshua Hague

Kelsie Kellermeyer

Debra Maxwell

Taylor Nusbaum

Gloria Rilometo

Tyler Rutledge

Jaden Wenning

Arwen Williams

Isabell Young

Kylie Younker

6TH GRADE

Highest Honor 4.0

Carlee Barna

Brittyn Bruns

Parker Lyons

Natalie Moeller

Taylor Muhlenkamp

Jordyn Schaefer

Emmery Temple

Christina Tong

Honors

 3.5-3.99

Meagan Boroff

Tyler Chalfant

Olivia Clifford

Miley Crouch

Addison Dailey

Dakota Eller

Addison Fisher

Payton Frese

Logan Fullenkamp

Kaleb Gilliland

Jaden Green

Kolt Harner

Caden Hays

Trevor Heitkamp

Parker Johnson

Danika Keller

Carson Kirby

Grace Kiser

Rylan Lyons

Maddie Miehls

Taylor Minnich

Madison Mosier

Ashtlynn Muhlenkamp

Josiah Neff

Megan Nichols

Milee Peel

Haley Perry

Ava Pond

Ethan Pond

Ella Putman

Bryn Schoenleben

Gabryelle Sill

Kyndra Thornsberry

Analicia Velez

Troy Wallace

Gabriel Welling

Cora Wenning

Luca Winters

Jack Yoder

Rowan Yoder-Wagoner

Honors 3.0-3.49

Brooke Booher

Lennox Boroff

Tara Brown

Logan Butler

Hayden Castleman

Cooper Clay

Trevor Houser

Maddoxx Houts

Troy Miller

Ivy Pierre

Addison Reigle

Zavier Rissner

Gage Schaffer

Colbie Smith

Troy Wallace

Kendra Zimmerman

Kylie Zimmerman

7th GRADE

Highest Honor 4.0

Shay Boroff

Brayden Bruns

Braedn Conn

Gabriel Cross

Gaven Garwood

Adria Miller

Alexavier Samples

Cora Schumm

High Honors

 3.5-3.99

Amanda Barrett

Anna Bell

Cali Bollenbacher

Lillian Carpenter

Emerson Esselstein

Nevaeh Etgen

Karley Harrod

Zoey Henning

Lucas Hileman

Evan Kimmel

Creeden Knittle

Collin Langenkamp

Scarlett Laux

McKenzie Mathewson

Tayler Pennell

Kaitlyn Rager

Kailyn Regedanz

Wyatt Seals

Jayden Sheets

Meah Suzuki

Elizabeth Winget

7th GRADE

Honors 3.0-3.49

Kylie Barker

Nolan Bollenbacher

Duke Brehm

Wyatt Carpenter

Jersie Evans

Landon Hamrick

Colson Jones

Micah Reeder

Matthew Roberts

Zachary Rogers

Mason Schumm

Briann Scudder

Helana Sinning

Trevor Stearns

Kade Suzuki

Andrew Taylor

Derick Vann

Derrick Wagner

Madison Williams

8th GRADE

Highest Honor 4.0

Ruby Bennett

Breanna Berry

Meg Henkle

Addisyn Hileman

William Molloy

Lily Noll

Sarah Sheppard

Tori Williams

High Honors

3.5-3.99

Alexis Berry

Morgan Bollenbacher

Harli Garrity

Ashley Jackson

Madison Louth

Samara McDonald

Alizay Neuenschwander

Audrey Nichols

Nathan Perry

Merissa Price

Ellie Prichard

Emma Prichard

Trent Rollins

Abigail Sheets

Julia Sheets

Fletcher Smith

Francesca Steinbrunner

Paige Stephenson

Abbi Taylor

Apollo Thomas

Trent Tinkham

Avery White

Jacob Winget

8th GRADE

Honors 3.0-3.49

Braxton Bragg

Devon Crouch

Kirsten Deitsch

Olivia Dicke

Logan Green

Addysin Leighner

Rhyan Martenies

Landen May

Casey Popp

Brittany Sites

Katie Trisel

Selina Valle

Paige Williamson

The Village of Rockford will be following the IRS with a new tax day deadline of July 15th.

 
March 23-27, 2020 
 

Parkway Announces Updates by Sally Cox

Parkway staff will be checking emails/voicemails from home. 

The recycling program has been postponed until further notice.

Meal pick-up will be on Monday and Wednesday from 11:30-12:30 at the below locations as a drive-thru.  Monday will include two breakfasts and two lunches.  Wednesday will include three breakfasts and three lunches.  All meals will need to be refrigerated until ready to eat.  If you are not receiving meals and would like to be added, contact Pam Smith, cafeteria supervisor at cafeteria@parkwayschools.org or 419-363-3045 ext 783.

Mendon Meal Pick-Up         Rockford Meal Pick-Up        Willshire Meal Pick-Up

Mendon Church of God       Parkway High School           Willshire Village Office

102 N Wayne St                    400 Buckeye St                   315 State St

Mendon OH  45862              Rockford OH  45882            Willshire OH  45898

Our Old Bookcase

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

=====

Photo Caption:  Historic photograph of Mercer County Historical Museum, Celina

ATTENTION:

THE MERCER COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM WILL BE CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE, DUE TO THE VIRUS FROM CHINA.

THE MARCH 25. WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON MEETING TO SET UP THE NI DISPLAY, IS CANCELED.

THE MARCH 29, SUNDAY AFTERNOON DISPLAY IS CANCELED.

I WILL BE PROVIDING MORE INFORMATION FOR OUR APRIL PROGRAMS.

VWHS Spring Musical 2020 Update

The Van Wert High School Theatre Department would like to inform all that our spring musical, Disney’s Tarzan® , The Stage Musical scheduled for April 2, 3, & 4, 2020 at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center is cancelled due to the state mandated closure and concerning development of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). More information will be released in the near future regarding already purchased tickets and all business sponsors will be contacted individually. Updates will be posted on our website (VWHSTheatre.weebly.com), Facebook, and Twitter pages as more information becomes available. Thank you for your continued support of our students and program.

Mercer County Collecting Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

CELINA- Mercer County is seeking donations of personal protective equipment (PPE) to support first responders and critical operations occurring in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mercer County is encouraging medical practices such as veterinary clinics, dentists, and non-essential businesses to donate surplus personal protective equipment.

If you’d like donate, please call (419) 586-6468 to schedule a drop off. Donated items can be dropped off at the Mercer County Emergency Management Agency (321 Riley Street, Celina) by appointment only.

Unopened boxes of the following items will be accepted:

1. N95 Masks

2. Surgical masks

3. Gowns

4. Eye Protection

5. Face shields

6. Nitrile gloves

7. Disinfecting wipes

8. Hand Sanitizer

If you have any questions, please contact the Mercer County Health District at (419) 586-3251.

 
March 20-22, 2020 
 

If you'd like a link to only this story for a print-out - go to www.parkwayindependent.com/brayton-brady2020.htm

Inclusion in the regular academic classroom, for students with a myriad of disabilities, has been around since the 1990’s. In short, inclusion in the classroom means that students with disabilities have opportunities to learn in the same environment and alongside non-disabled students.
The heart-warming story at Parkway Schools is all about inclusion rising to a new level – on the basketball court.

Two Boys on the Team

According to Varsity Basketball Coach Doug Hughes, the teammates have embraced two classmates with disabilities onto the team, serving as inspiration, lending a hand at managing the team, and bringing friendship. “The players treat those two like gold,” said Hughes, special education teacher at Parkway Schools.

The Parkway Intervention students are: 1. Brayton Luginbill, Down Syndrome, a limited verbal classmate (three words) who carries a communication device (donated by Fox Family Ride for Autism), is the 17 year old son of Scott and Jill Luginbill; and 2. Bradyn (Brady) McKee, Delayed Mylination,  high-functioning, is the17 year old son of Todd and Terri McKee.  Both students came to be part of Parkway Basketball as early as 8^th graders to help with things like sports equipment and water bottles and learn in a work study environment just this year.  The Intervention Class of Doug Hughes includes all academic classes and the work study program.

Brayton (left) and Brady enjoy a selfie.

 Brayton Luginbill

According to the Luginbills of rural Willshire, they are so proud to be lifelong Panthers, and the parents of young Brayton, who was diagnosed with Down Syndrome at one week old. Later he was diagnosed with Autism after attending Parkway Kindergarten. Jill explains, though, that these labels do not define Brayton’s abilities.  He’s always been in multiple disabilities classrooms until moving to the Intervention class this year for the work study program. He attended preschool at Cheryl Ann Schools. Jill and Scott credit everyone at Cheryl Ann and Parkway for Brayton’s success. Jill said,  “There isn’t just one person; it’s a team effort.  It does take a village. The students not only accept Brayton, they include him.  His basketball family allows independent growth and experiences. The teachers, administration, and our community encourage and support non traditional IEP paths with local opportunities.”  The Luginbill’s commented, “These young men have grown up with Brayton both on and off the court. You know he is considered a member of the team, for when he missed practices in Jr. High when he was hospitalized with pneumonia during the season, Brayton received a get-well poster board card signed by all the team players along with balloons.  Also, when the current Seniors were 8th graders (Brayton was in 7th grade), he was presented with a basketball signed by all Jr. High players.  The 8th grade brought home the championship that year, that ball is still cherished by Brayton.  This year Brayton leads the team on to the court at the beginning of each game and participates in pumping up his player as the starting line ups are announced.  We are blessed that these young men are proud to have him (“Dr. Luginbill”) as a member of the team even to the extent that Brayton now has received 2 tourney net pieces from sectional and district championships.  There is so much more than just the win on the scoreboard!”

Brayton with the Panther Mascot.

Bradyn (Brady) McKee

Todd and Terri McKee of Rockford,  said they learned of Brady’s diagnosis at 10 months old after an MRI at Columbus Children’s Hospital revealed Delayed Mylination  (lack of oxygen at or before birth). “Brady then went to Cheryl Ann programs and Early Intervention until he was 3 years old where Brayton was also enrolled. It was there we met the Luginbills. Brady was, at age 3, transitioned to home therapy with Mercer County Services until he started Pre-School at Parkway,” said Terri. Brady had some therapy at the time and then transitioned to an IEP (Individualized Education Plan). The McKee’s mention,  “We are grateful to Parkway Schools and, in particular, staff members Brandy Cairns, Matt Fisher and Doug Hughes for their dedicated work with Brady.” 

The McKee’s shared, “I don’t know if Coach Hughes has told you, but Brady is all about sports. He was constantly in Doug’s office when he was the AD - talking sports. Doug even at one point had to come up with rules that if Brady didn't have his work done and turned-in then he couldn't talk sports with Coach Hughes. Brady here at home has a PlayStation 4 & is constantly on it. He literally makes the teams (all the local MAC teams) & their fields or courts & then plays the game. He has numerous PowerPoint slides that he’s created with high school, collegiate, & pro teams rosters. I received a MAC football schedule from a co-worker years ago that showed the schedule by the helmets only. Brady loved that schedule so much that he figured out a way to make his own & has done it the last 3 years.”

When the players heard this story from Mrs. McKee, they all started talking about the fun they have playing PlayStation online with Brady. “He’s good at online games and makes his own teams which is a hard thing to set-up,” marveled Caden Slusher.
Photo above is Brady with two fans.

Becoming Part of the Basketball Team

Brayton Luginbill LOVES basketball, according to his mom. As early as elementary school, he participated in Parkway summer camp sessions with Coach Hughes and on the Challengers’ Team for the County. Player Dylan Hughes volunteered as a Challenger buddy for Brayton for basketball. Two other buddies were Roman Leszinske and Grant Bollenbacher, according to Jill Luginbill. His parents were instrumental in getting that started for the younger disabled children. Basketball continued through junior high and high school where he began traveling with the Freshman Team two years ago and has moved up to JV and Varsity team participation.

“Brayton has been a manager, but this year was promoted to Hydration Specialist or what most people call the Water Boy,” said Jill.  Coach Hughes explained that when Brayton came into his classroom at the start of the 2019 school year, it was to enroll him in a work study program, and part of that is the Basketball duties. “It is his job, at school, to clean the bottles and keep them filled with water, but he also does school recycling and even laundry. On the court, he carries the crate and hands the water bottles to the players. This part is not the work study program, but I am not sure he realizes that. He’s part of the team when he is on the court,” said Coach Hughes. Brayton also is in Work Study program and on Tuesday afternoons he works with Tom Burtch at the Rockford Carry-Out. His duties there include: stocking shelves; breaking down boxes; cleaning tables; washing windows and cleaning trays. “This year Brayton leads warm-ups on the court. He then runs out and does the high five with Nick Hawk right as the game starts,” said Jason Luth. “Brayton shows his excitement in many ways. He gets so anxious before the game. He stands shoulder to shoulder with the referees, watching and waiting for the flag to come down and the National Anthem to finish. He knows the routine and is very dedicated to the routine in all areas of the game.” said Coach Hughes. “And, he constantly plays with his hoodie strings,” laughed Nick Hawk as the other players nodded in agreement. “ He pulls them back and forth and rolls them up and down in an exact rhythm.” 

 
Brayton and his hoodie strings. Photo compliments of James Leighner.

“Overall his behavior on the bench is great even though he is grunting, clapping and bouncing around. At practices, he acts out his need for attention, sometimes, by laying in the middle of the court with his head on a basketball and hand on his head,” said Corey Walls, smiling. “He likes to practice with us, too, and makes lots of shots. He’s good!,” said Jason Luth. “ He even tries to run the scoreboard in practice,” chuckled the players, “and SOMETIMES, the water caps are on wrong, and he laughs when he says ‘Whoops” which can be his playful verbalization that he just drenched an unsuspecting teammate on purpose.”  Brayton has 3 words: Whoops, Uh-Oh and What, and the players have come to know his verbal and non-verbal communications. “He’ll even drop his crate and throw water bottles, splashing the boys in a playful way.” said Coach Hughes.  “And, he is really empathetic, for instance when Corey (Walls) sprained his ankle, Brayton, got the attention of the trainer to help and then rubbed Corey’s shoulders. He will often pat the players on the back in a show of encouragement.”

Brady McKee, also a work study student of Doug Hughes, performs a totally different role on the team. Brady LOVES all kinds of sports and keeps the minutes chart for the Panthers’ games and statistics that the coaches use. Even the other teams’ coaches! He’s good with Microsoft Excel and Word, so he develops the sports program for each game, which includes the opposing team rosters, which he gets off the Internet. He quietly sits on the bench collecting data and doesn’t lose his cool during the game. “This year Brady is a “student assistant” and he wears a suit like the other coaches do on game days and gets to sit on the bench with them,” said Terri, his mom.

Brady with his share of the trophy loot after the win at sectionals or districts.

“Come Monday morning 1^st period, he’ll have the numbers crunched and the spreadsheet printed for each coach and player,” said Coach Hughes, and according to his teammates, he is ready to discuss the numbers! And, not only MAC, but all college teams as well.

“He likes to argue with us and always wants our opinion,” said Nick Hawk. “ He critiques our playing but always in a light-hearted way!”

His mom Terri agrees, “Brady gives us all the rundown on the opponents they are going to face then we get the play by play on the game when he gets home.” Corey Walls marvels at the way he knows the mascots of all the college teams. Brady was moved to the bench this year because of his unique role with the coaching staff, according to Coach Hughes.

“He doesn’t like to play the game, though; he’s all about the analysis,” explained Jason Luth. Brady gets upset about the postponement of the tournaments.

Panther sports fan, Barb Baker, who suggested this story, talked about a touching moment for the Panther Fans at the district final game. It is the same story that touched Terri McKee’s heart. Barb explained, “The Panther Fans were watching the team players cut pieces of the net down after their exciting win. Brady went up to cut his own piece of the net down, and he was really struggling with the scissors. A couple of the players, Corey Walls and Nick Hawk  immediately came to his rescue. They helped him cut through it. As they tried to hand the piece to Brady, he gave it back; but the boys were insistent – ‘Brady, this is YOUR piece.’ The Wapak gymnasium erupted in cheering!”  

Terri said, “The boys have always been so patient & caring to both Brady & Brayton. This action really showed me what an amazing group of young men that their parents have raised.”

Corey Walls shown helping Brady cut the piece of net.

Parkway Panthers were Regional Bound after having won 41-31 in the District Finals vs Marion Local. In the Regional Semi-finals Parkway beat Tiffin Calvert 44-42 to advance to the Regional Finals. Tournament action was postponed by the Coronavirus Outbreak.

Coach and Teacher Doug Hughes

Hughes has been at Parkway for 14 years, but has been in education for 27 years as a licensed Intervention Specialist for K-12 grade and an Elementary 1-8 grade certified teacher. He’s been a head basketball coach for 19 years (10 at Parkway) and was Parkway Athletic Director for 11 years. Although he’s interacted with Brayton and Brady over the course of the boys’ school careers, they both came to Mr. Hughes classroom this year in the Work Study Program.

The boys are in Inclusion classrooms, but Hughes teaches Brayton most of his classes, and Brady only comes to him during study hall, spending most of his time in regular academic classes, or doing Work Study with AD Matt Triplett.

Interviewed for this feature were Left to right: Dylan Hughes; Caleb Kinney;  Gavin Stober; Caden Slusher;
Corey Walls; Jason Luth; Coach Doug Hughes; Nick Hawk and Ryan Hesse.

Said Coach Hughes, “I’m so proud of these young men." They are: Jason Luth, Senior; Caleb Kinney, Senior; Dylan Hughes, Junior; Nick Hawk, Senior; Corey Walls, Senior; Ryan Hesse, Senior; Caden Slusher, Sophomore; Gavin Stober, Senior; Kendall Roof, Senior; and Zach Hawk.

"What has been good for Brady and Brayton has been best for these teammates. They think outside of themselves and have consideration of others especially Brayton. For instance, part of the routine is that the boys eat lunch every day with Brayton and Brady, but Brayton cannot order his own food. These young men figured out a system of selection (using the left  or right fist designated as a specific food choice) for Brayton. Early in the season, after the Milton Union away scrimmage, they stopped at a Burger King  for a meal. The boys had to figure out how to order for Brayton. They had been working on the fist selection at school, and had him choose between left-fist Whopper and right-fist Chicken Nuggets. Brayton selected, but Caleb noticed he kept choosing the same hand and mentioned it. The boys were trying to figure out if Brayton was really paying attention to the choices. Caleb tried left-fist broccoli and right-fist potato chips. And, Brayton chose the other fist which was potato chips. The boys tried it again, and once again Brayton was paying attention and avoided broccoli.”  The team, at this interview, erupted in laughter remembering the Burger King dilemma.

Of the Panther Basketball Team success this year, (19-7 after they won the regional semi-final and were headed to the final), Coach Hughes said, “Every person on this team had a role and hand in the success. These young men think of others and not themselves. They have learned to sacrifice for the team – the greater good. They are the true definition of a team ~ everyone sacrificing so that the team can achieve greatness. I started seeing that come out in them after about the third loss of the season. We lost a really tough game at Ft. Recovery – a game in which we led the whole way until they hit a deep three with only seconds remaining. That was tough to take. In the locker room, after that loss, we talked about how we must keep working and how important it was for us as a group to stay together. We told the players they had to keep on grinding and understand that the strength of this team was our unity and unselfishness. At that point, the losses brought them together as a team. They were perfectly fine sacrificing for the betterment of the group. They learned it makes you tougher when you stick together. At every turn, I see these boys rooting for and excited for each others’ successes. They never point fingers. It is so special to see individual success with no jealousy – no tear down. They play well together on and off the court, and certainly they set the finest example in the love and friendship they share with teammates Brayton and Brady and their successes.”

Before the Coronavirus struck, the Panthers were to play Columbus Grove in the Regional finals on Friday, March 13, 2020, with all of the Parkway district families and fans who so looked forward to the game and wished the best of luck to the team and their two very important helpers.

Coach Hughes finished, “We have talked a lot about things we can’t control on the court, like the virus bringing our tournament run to an abrupt stop. We choose to continue to move forward because we have learned that when we are in it for each others’ success it leads to Parkway’s success.”

Dylan Hughes cuts a piece of the net for Brayton at the Coldwater game.

Fans celebrate Brayton getting a piece of the tournament net at Wapak. Photo shared by Pat Agler.

Nick Hawk, number 32, playfully celebrates with Brady McKee, after the win.

Parkway 2^nd Quarter Honor Roll Students

By Lisa Miller, PHS Secretary

SENIORS

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Rachel Barrett, Carley Boeckman, Aaron Bruns, Breyden Bruns, Alexis Cairns, Courtney Harding, Leah Harshman, Macy Henkle, McKenna Johnson, Kristine Kirby, Clarissa Krogman, Brooke May, Hailey Roberts, Kiersten Roehm, Grace Rogers, Kyle Roth, Olivia Rutledge, Hailey Stephenson, McKenna Temple, Shaelyn Thomas, Alexander Tisdale, Ashlyn White

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Cory Agler, Tori Albright, Ansley Burtch, Sidney Doner, Claire Eichler, Emma Gause, Ryan Hesse, Lily Hipply, Jason Luth, Trinaty McDavid, Sophia Miller, Gavin Stober, Corey Walls

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Kevin Fonner, Katie Hauter, Nicholas Hawk, Emma May, Sydney Yoder, Emily Zimmerman

JUNIORS

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Kaden Boroff, Alexzandra Cottman, Remi' Fokine, Lydia Miller, Kelsey Nichols, Elijah Rich, Mackenzie Springer

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Makena Boeckman, Avery Boroff, Treya Conn, Brendan Etzcorn, Madalyn Heindel, Zoie Huffman, Kayla Kuhn, Claire Rutledge, McKayla Sites, Tyler Tinkham

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Brock Baltzell, Addison Barna, Breanna Beeks, Grace Etgen, Graham Farmer, Justan Felver, Liam Ferroggiaro, Savanna Freeman, Sierra Freeman, Hunter Gibson, Claire Langenkamp, Andrea Miller, Chaz Neuenschwander, Haydn Ridenour, Makenna Schumm, Adam Stephenson, Olivia Sutter, Sydney Waters

SOPHOMORES

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Leah Eichler, Danielle Huff, Riley Samples, Benjamin Sheppard, Blake Strickler

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Kameryn Altenbach, Alex Anderson, Cora Barna, Grant Bollenbacher, Elise Darrigan, Lily Haver, Cami High, Chasity McGhee, Jacob Rogers, Gabriel Schaaf, Chantry Simon, Ashtyn Sipe, Caden Slusher, Mackenzie Stephenson, Briana Webb

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Jace Armstrong, Hunter Bruns, Jordan Feldes, Ashley Hague, Jaden Hileman, Molly Hileman, Paige Jackson, Dennis Leighner, Parker Mihm, Raegan Roehm, Cade Schoenleben, Gracyn Temple, Montanna Vann, Bryce Zimmerman

FRESHMEN

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Aaron Cron, Colin Fokine, Carter Hellwarth, Madison Jacobs, Derek Smith, Gabrielle Stober

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Colby Bentz, Rielee Brister, Gavin Dicke, Skyler Fokine, Brayden Frank, Trenton Garwood, Caden Heindel, Allison Heitkamp, Morgan Hunter, Adrienne Joseph, Jackson Kraner, Christina Lane, Roman Leszinske, Corban Rich, Hutch Ridenour, Alison Rowen, Emily Schaefer, Bryant Scudder, Emree Sinning, Brooke Stephenson, Jason Stienecker, Herminie Williams

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Tazmin Archer, Abby Baltzell, Aaliyah Baxter, Karolann Burk, Avery Cole, Brenden Cottman, Bryce Dorsten, Madison Gile, Taylor Gruss, Desiree Hague, Autumn Herrmann, Emiree Knittle, Dakota Mullholand, Alivia Osborne, Nevaeh Seals, Bryce Stearns, Jocie Waters, Alyxandra Yoder

Van Wert Health Releases Local COVID-19 Update and Visitor Restrictions

We at Van Wert Health are working hard to monitor and adapt to the ever-changing situation with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in order to care for patients in the safest way possible, protect our caregivers, contain the spread of the virus within the region, and provide the most up-to-date information to the public. 

We are treating the COVID-19 outbreak as an emergent situation and have assembled an internal team of leaders, physicians, infection prevention specialist and many more who are working with all of our offices to create protocols and new workflows for COVID-19.  Many of the practices related to COVID-19 are the same as for influenza, and we are using our best infection prevention practices to protect patients, visitors, physicians, and staff.

“Van Wert Health’s team of physicians and healthcare professionals include experts with extensive experience in caring for patients with infectious diseases and in activating comprehensive, response management plans when public health threats develop,” said Elizabeth Neuschwanger, Chief Nursing Officer.  “Our team is well prepared if there are 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) diagnoses in our region.”

Tightened Visitor Restrictions

In an attempt to prevent the spread of COVID-19, influenza, and other infectious diseases to protect patients and staff members, and in accordance with guidance from the Ohio Hospital Association, on Friday, March 20, Van Wert Health - Hospital implemented a revised visitation policy. 

Intensive Care and Acute Care Units: No visitors allowed for adult patients. 

Pediatrics: Two authorized adult visitors will be allowed for the duration of a patient’s stay.

Maternity: For mothers laboring and delivering, they will be allowed one visitor to be with them throughout their stay.

Emergency Department: One authorized parent/guardian per pediatric patient.

Patients facing end-of-life: We will work with families to ensure that they are able to be with their family member.

Patients who require assistance: One visitor may accompany adult individuals with special needs.

Case by case exceptions may be made if needed. 

We encourage people to remain in contact with your loved ones through phone calls, texting, video chats, etc.  We thank the community for helping maintain a healthy environment for everyone at our hospital. 

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms such as a fever, cough, or minor shortness of breath, and are otherwise healthy and not experiencing a medical emergency, we recommend you manage your symptoms from home.  Unless it’s an emergency, to reduce your risk of catching or spreading illness, stay home.  Do not go to work or public places. 

According to Van Wert Health physician George Trimble, MD, “The majority of people who will be exposed to COVID-19 will experience mild to no symptoms.  Just because you are not feeling well, does not mean you have COVID-19.  Please follow all of the recommended precautions and if you are not feeling well, consult your primary care physician first or call the helpline.” 

Some infections may progress though into pneumonia or bronchitis and individuals more at risk are the elderly and those with compromised immune symptoms.

Anyone experiencing extreme shortness of breath or another medical emergency should seek care at the closest Emergency Room. 

Dedicated COVID-19 Helpline

Patients with questions about their symptoms or unsure if they should seek care should call their primary care physician or call the Van Wert Health COVID-19 helpline, which is now available 24 hours daily – 419-203-9161. 

The possibility of having a contagious illness can be scary.  Our team at Van Wert Health is working together with federal, state, and local organizations to identify and provide care to patients while avoiding spread of the illness in the community. 

“Seeing the community rally around and support each other during the COVID-19 outbreak has been truly humbling and inspiring. Thank you to everyone at Van Wert Health for your continued resilience, hard work, and determination,” shared Neuschwanger.

Celina Police Department NEWS RELEASE 3/18/2020

On 03/17/2020 at about 7:02PM Celina Police Dispatch received a call of a human body floating in Grand Lake near the shoreline along S Main St., at the lighthouse.  Celina Police officers arrived and did confirm the reported finding.  Celina Fire Department Dive Team entered the water and removed the body with assistance from officers on scene.             

The body, an adult, male, is being sent to the Montgomery County Coroner for an autopsy to determine the cause of death as well as to identify the man.   

A Celina man, 26 year old Tre Bilger was last seen on February 18^th, 2020 and was reported missing 3 days later on February 21^st to the Celina Police Department.  While rumors are abundant, Celina Police cannot positively identify this body as that of Tre Bilger.  Both of these cases remain under investigation.

***UPDATE***

The Montgomery County Coroner has positively identified the deceased to be 26 year old Tre Bilger of Celina.  No other autopsy results are available.  It will be several weeks for complete results.  The Celina Police Department expresses sincere condolences to Tre’s family and loved ones.  The investigation continues.

Mercer County EMA Update

With concerns over COVID-19 and with large populations sheltered at home, the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness is cancelling the Statewide Tornado Drill which was to be conducted in Wednesday, March 25th.  

St  John Hopewell Lutheran Church Cancels ALL Services and Meetings

Due to the covid-19 virus and the requests by our President and Governor to avoid large group gatherings during this time, all services and meetings of St  John Hopewell Lutheran Church will be cancelled until further notice.  It is our hope, as is everyone's, that resolution to this virus comes quickly.  

St. Paul's United Church of Christ Cancels Lenten Series and Church Services

Due to the covid-19 virus and the requests by President Trump and Governor Dewine to avoid large group gatherings during this time, all Wednesday Lenten series and Sunday services at St. Paul's United Church of Christ will be cancelled through the end of March. Call the church at 419-942-1374 if you have questions or need help.

The April meeting for the Rockford Carnegie Library Board of Trustees has been cancelled.  The Trustees will meet again on Tuesday, May 12 at 4 pm in the basement meeting room at the Library.

 
March 17-19, 2020 
 

Wabash Offers Free WiFi
Users Can Practice Social Distancing While Online From Their Car

Celina, OH: Wabash has set up temporary FREE WiFi spots around Mercer County for those who do not have an internet connection during this state of emergency.

“We understand the value of the internet for students needing to access assignments, and the heightened need for people to interact with businesses and others online,” says Mike Boley, President and CEO of Wabash. “This is simply a way for Wabash to do our part during this pandemic.”

Users will be able to connect to this free WiFi while still practicing social distancing from their cars.

Please use the network named Wabash Free WiFi, available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the following locations:

- Celina: Bryson Memorial Pool, parking lot northeast of the pool
- Chattanooga: Chatt Fire Department, parking lot
- Coldwater: Pla-Mor Lanes, north parking lot
- Fort Recovery: Pavilion, parking lot west of the pool
- Rockford: Shanes Park Community Building, east parking lot
- St. Henry: St. Henry Church CCD Building, west parking lot

There is no need to enter these facilities.

Wabash extends appreciation to these locations for allowing this opportunity. “We are fortunate to be a part of very supportive communities,” says Boley. “The care shown, especially in a time of crisis, is tremendous.”

Wabash Mutual Telephone Company is a leading, local communications company providing internet, television and phone services and solutions to homes and businesses in Mercer County, Ohio, and the surrounding area. Staying true to our cooperative principles established in 1911, Wabash continues to adopt ever-advancing technology to remain a cutting-edge provider and grow in rural America. For more information, visit www.wabash.com or www.facebook.com/wabashmutualtelephone.

The Following events have been postponed in the
Village of Rockford  ****    new dates to be announced


March 21 - The Great Panther Duck Races -

March 28 - Rockford Lions Club Quarter Auction

March - 29 - History Comes Alive series

April 4th - Rockford Easter Egg Hunt

April 4th -  Gun / Designer Purse Bingo


 

Bicentennial Queen Pageant Postponed

It is with much reluctance that we announce the postponement of the Bicentennial Queen Pageant.
This event was scheduled for April 26th in the Parkway Auditorium.  Unfortunately, due to the current  COVID-19 pandemic, it is necessary for this event to be postponed.

Please note, at this time we are only postponing this event.  It is our sincere desire to reschedule this event once it is practical & safe for all involved.  The new date & time will be announced in the future.
That being said, we will be extending the deadline for applications through April 13th.  

This opportunity is only available to female students residing in the Parkway School District.
The Bicentennial Committee encourages all junior & senior age young ladies, including home schooled students, to participate.  This will be a great opportunity to make history in an epic way!

Categories for the pageant include: interview, talent, evening gown and essay.  
Applications may be obtained at Peoples Bank Rockford drive-thru or can be downloaded & printed.
*Applications must be completed & returned by 4/13/20 to:
Rockford Village Office, PO Box 282, Rockford OH  45882

There will be multiple prizes awarded including:
The Queen will be awarded $500 courtesy of Shanes Crossing Historical Society.
The 1st Runner-Up will be awarded $150 in prizes from the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
In addition, there will be prizes for the Peoples Choice Award.

Don't delay; apply today!! Only the first twelve applicants are guaranteed a spot.

Mercer Landmark Opens MPS Feed Mill in St. Henry, OH

3.18.20 (St. Henry, OH). Mercer Landmark recently announced the opening of their new MPS Feed Mill in St. Henry, OH. The new facility is a state-of-the-art mega feed mill capable of producing 5-6 semi loads of feed per hour. The feed produced at MPS Feed will be high quality and high volumes – offering customers a quicker and more efficient process for obtaining feed.

To celebrate the opening, Mercer Landmark held a private ribbon cutting ceremony and open house on March 7th, 2020 for employees, their family members, local congressmen and partners in the morning, followed by a public open house that afternoon from 2 – 4 PM. The public open house was led by Mercer Landmark team members who provided facility tours and explained the process and what the new Feed Mill will provide to customers.

MPS Feed – Processes and Structure

Mercer Landmark Employees shared that MPS Feed will have fully automated receiving systems. These systems have dedicated inbound and outbound scales and highspeed receiving systems to provide a streamlined and efficient delivery experience to MPS bulk ingredient suppliers. The bulk handling at MPS Feed will consist of application specific conveyance systems from many of the top equipment providers to the feed industry.

Cutting Edge Technology Improves Quality of Feed + Turnaround Times

Processing and mixing systems at MPS will utilize cutting edge grinding and mixing technology to consistently provide the highest quality feed to Mercer Landmark’s partners and customers. The new onsite load out system has been designed with substantial handling capacity. The system is fully automated with two bays. Each bay has its own dedicated truck scale to provide the shortest possible turnaround times, as well as a consistent and reliable service to both partners and customers alike.

Mercer Landmark is thrilled with the opening of this state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, which will better enable them to be the best business partner to their clients/partners.

Jerry Laffin, Mercer County Commissioner who attended the open house on March 7th, states:

“I am very honored to be able to attend the opening of the facility here in St. Henry for MPS Feed. This new facility will be a great asset to the county and could also be one of the top facilities in our county that will greatly impact and help the economy. We truly appreciate all that the group here at Mercer Landmark has done for our agricultural community.”

Due to their dedication to keep the facility and their processes as clean as possible, Mercer Landmark will not be hosting any further open houses at this time for the new MPS Feed location.

If you have specific questions about the new MPS Feed mill, you can contact Mercer Landmark here.

Local Funeral Homes Alspach-Gearhart, Gearhart-Sauer and Ketcham-Ripley Address Public

To our valued Van Wert and Mercer County communities,

Given the reality of the national health concern, it is important to know that our family of funeral homes is taking precautions to limit exposure to the coronavirus. We are still operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week making certain that those entrusted to our care and the families we serve are always receiving uninterrupted service and attention.

As health officials have indicated, one way to limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus is through limiting public gatherings. Our sympathies go out to anyone who has the additional burden of grief and loss during this time, and we are here to guide each family with their needs on an individual basis.  Today, Tuesday, March 17, 2020, Ohio Governor Mike Dewine outlined recommendations for funeral homes to follow in limiting attendance to visitations and funerals to immediate family only.  We feel it is our duty to abide by these recommendations.

Beginning later this week, our funeral homes will be providing live, and/or recorded, webcasting of all funerals on our websites, www.alspachgearhart.com and www.ketchamripley.com.

Furthermore, reach out to us and we will share your sympathies with the family of the deceased. As always, condolences may be expessed at www.alspachgearhart.com and www.ketchamripley.com.

We are your neighbors and friends. We live and work in your community and we take the impact of this situation seriously.

Above all, we are committed to the families we serve. We remain focused on maintaining high standards and ethical practices as we serve the deceased and bereaved with the health and well-being of our communities in mind as we move forward together in the coming weeks and months.

Andrew M. Gearhart            Sean M. Sauer

Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home

722 S Washington St. Van Wert, OH 45891 Tel: 419-238-1112

info@alspachgearhart.com

Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home

111 West First St. Rockford, OH 45882

Tel: 419-363-3981

info@alspachgearhart.com

Gearhart-Sauer Funeral Home

655 N. Main St.

Convoy, Ohio 45832

Tel: 419-749-4338

info@alspachgearhart.com

Rockford Chamber of Commerce Minutes by Lisa Kuhn

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

 
March 16, 2020 
 

MIX 101.3 WKRD will host a discussion between Mayor Joseph, Dr. Means and other community leaders this evening. Please tune-in tonight at 7:30 PM for a COVID-19 update.

http://www.mix1013wrkd.com/

 
March 14-15, 2020 
 

CANCELLED!  Henry Drake - Ricky D. Zizelman American Legion Post # 2019 to be Chartered in Ceremony - It will be rescheduled at a future date when the current health concern is over

The American Legion Dept. of Ohio Commander, Roger L. Friend, will be in Mendon on Tuesday evening March 24th, 2020, 6:30 p.m. at the Old Farm Store, 114 N. Main St. in Mendon, Ohio, to present the 30 new members its signed Charter establishing the Henry Drake - Ricky D. Zizelman American Legion Post # 2019.  Mendon, Ohio.  Commander Roger Friend, is a retired United States Navy veteran, who served during the Vietnam War, and went on to serve his country in the United State Naval Reserves for over 22 years.  As Department Ohio Commander he oversees 540 Post, and its 90,000 plus members throughout Ohio.  He is a member of the American Legion Post #804, St. Louisville, Ohio.  This event is open to the public.

Results of Mercer County Person under Investigation test come back negative

CELINA- On March 11, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reported that a Mercer County resident was being tested for novel coronavirus (COVID-19).  Today, MCHD was notified that the test result is negative. “While we are pleased that the results are negative, we continue to encourage everyone to take precautions to protect against illness,” said MCHD Health Administrator Jason Menchhofer.

COVID-19 has been classified as a pandemic, and Ohio is experiencing community spread. MCHD continues to maintain awareness of the COVID-19 situation on a state and national level and is actively engaged with the local media to ensure that up to date factual information is circulating in the community.  The Health District is also in communication with various community partners, providing information to aid them in making decisions about upcoming events. 

MCHD will continue to provide the public with useful information and stands ready to help the citizens of Mercer County.  For general information, contact the Ohio Department of Health COVID-19 information line at 1-833-427-5634.  For questions relating to Mercer County, contact the Mercer County Health District at 419-586-3251.

Area Agency on Aging 3 Urging Older Adults to Stay Home
Senior Farmers’ Market Applications Postponed Indefinitely

 
 
Lima, OH (3.12.2020) – The Area Agency on Aging 3 is urging Older Adults, people with compromised immune systems, and those that are considered to be in a fragile state to stay at home during this time. With the spread of the COVID-19 virus and the announcements from Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, AAA3 has suspended the distribution of the Senior Farmers’ Market applications indefinitely, along with suspending the DISH Program (Senior Dining Program), and all Health Education classes effective Monday, March 16, 2020.
 
“We are trying to take care of team members at the Area Agency on Aging 3, by doing so we can therefore better take care of those that we serve. By limiting the people coming into the agency and the face-to-face contact that we have, we hope to be able to assist in keeping the older adult population safe from the spread of the COVID-19 virus,” CEO Jacqi Bradley stated regarding these decisions.
 
The Area Agency on Aging 3 will also be limiting the amount of team members on site at the 2423 Allentown Road, Lima location and will be focusing on doing home and wellness visits via telephonic means.
 
Due to the increased vulnerability of Older Adults and those with compromised immune systems, it is very important to remain diligent and do our best to look after the older generation. The Area Agency on Aging 3 urges family, friends, and neighbors to check on their older relations, friends, and neighbors. A simple phone call is all it takes to make sure they have the things they need.
 
Once again, it is important to stay home and limit yourself to contact with others if you are felling under the weather. Governor Mike DeWine stated if you have a family member that is ill you should treat as thought you are as well.
 
Once a decision is made to resume normal operations and once again distribute the Senior Famers’ Market applications the local media will be notified as well as published through the Agency’s website at www.aaa3.org and on our Facebook page.

Easter Egg Hunt Planned in Rockford  

Rockford Easter Egg Hunt
Shanes Park
April 4th at 1 pm

Pictures with the Easter Bunny ! :)

Rockford, OH Bicentennial - History Comes Alive Event

March 29th - 2020 @ 2 pm - location
Rockford Community Building
420 N Holly Lane
Rockford, OH  45882

Harrison Frech will be presenting his new edition of  -  Anthony Shane

Jerry Bolenbaugh presents - Classic Country & Bluegrass Jam - POSTPONED
New date to be announced.

Sunday - April 5th    2 - 5 pm

Rockford Community Building
420 N Holly Lane
Rockford, OH  45882

FREE Event -

Bring your stringed instruments and have fun !

Room to Dance -

Rockford Carry Out Concessions on Site :)

Honor Flight Postpones Spring Flights

The Board of Directors of Honor Flight Northeast Indiana (HFNEI) has postponed the April 29 and May 20, 2020 Honor Flights due to the seriousness and uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus.  The decision to postpone the Spring Honor Flights was based upon recommendations from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and a statement by Dr. Anthony Fauci, Head of National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and a member of Vice President Pence’s task force that has been assembled to address the virus.
 
Dr. Fauci is quoted as saying:  “If you are an individual that has an underlying condition, particularly an elderly person with an underlying condition, right now you should start to distance yourself from the risk:  crowds, getting on a plane, on a long plane trip, and above all, don’t get on a cruise ship, he said.  “That is a health issue.”
 
Dr. Fauci also cautioned that individuals most at risk to the coronavirus are elderly with pre-existing health issues and should avoid unnecessary travel. Dennis Covert, President of Honor Flight Northeast Indiana, noted that nearly 100% of our veteran passengers are in their 80s and 90s and many have multiple health issues.
 
According to Covert, the decision was made to avoid possible infection and/or quarantine for the veterans, guardians, and Honor Flight staff.  We did not want to place anyone at risk, as safety of our participants is our priority.  The Honor Flight Board of Directors is currently working with American Airlines to determine when the two Honor Flights can be re-scheduled.  At this time, it is not known when the flights will be re-scheduled.
 
Further information, as it become available, can be found at the Honor Flight Northeast Indiana website:  www.hfnei.org or on our social media pages.

The Stateline Writer's Club will resume meetings starting Saturday, March 21, 10 a.m. to noon, in the Celina public library.  The suggested composition topic is writer's choice.   

Bicentennial Queen Pageant Approaches

The Village of Rockford is celebrating it's 200th birthday this year.
In recognition of this milestone, we are pleased to announce our Bicentennial Queen Pageant.  
The pageant will be held April 26th at 3pm in the Parkway Auditorium.
This opportunity is only available to female students residing in the Parkway School District.


The Bicentennial Committee encourages all junior & senior age young ladies, including home schooled students, to participate.  This will be a great opportunity to express yourself and earn some awards.
Catagories for the pageant include: interview, talent, evening gown and essay.  
Applications may be picked up at the Parkway High School office or at the Rockford Village office.
*Applications must be completed & returned by 3/23/20 to:
Rockford Village Office, PO Box 282, Rockford OH  45882

There will be multiple prizes awarded including:
The Queen will be awarded $500 courtesy of Shanes Crossing Historical Society.
The 1st Runner-Up will be awarded $150 in prizes from the Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
In addition, there will be prizes for the Peoples Choice Award.

Don't delay; apply today!! Only the first twelve applicants are guaranteed a spot.

COVID-19  Update
Provided by www.vanwertcountyhealth.org     
At the time of this release there are 3 confirmed cases in Ohio in Cuyahoga County and 5 Persons Under Investigation (PUIs).  

The Van Wert County General 
Health District continues to monitor the situation and communicate and 
collaborate with healthcare providers and  community partners locally.  We also are working and communicating daily with 
our partners  regionally and at the statewide levels.   

We are working locally with the Van Wert EMA, schools, healthcare providers, nursing homes, and many others 

to be prepared for a potential community spread.  

The health department would like to stress to the public and others that now is no time to panic, but to be prepared.  

The health department, the Van Wert EMA, and others have plans in place to 
help  prepare for public health outbreaks.    The health department also reminds the public that a person under quarantine 
does not mean that that person has COVID-19, but may have the potential to 
develop the disease.  States are working to quarantine individuals who have 
traveled to areas with known cases of COVID-19 to attempt to stop the spread 
of the illness.   

Older individual and those with underlying health conditions are at a greater risk of  serious illness.   

Symptoms of COVID19 appear within two to 14 days after exposure and include fever, 
cough, runny nose and difficulty breathing.  

There is currently no vaccine to prevent the disease.   At this time, precautions are universal 

and the same as those used to prevent the spread of the  common cold and the flu.     

Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.  If not available, 
use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.   Avoid touching your eyes, nose, mouth with unwashed hands. 

Avoid contact with people who are sick.  Stay home while you are sick and avoid close contact with others.   Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or your sleeve when coughing or sneezing.  

Sick people can wear masks to prevent the spread of illness, 

but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not recommend them for people who are 

not experiencing symptoms.  If you feel sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing please do the following:   

Seek medical care right away.  
Before you go to the doctor’s office or emergency room, call ahead and tell them about your recent travel and symptoms.  You will likely be requested to complete a questionnaire as recommended by the ODH &  CDC.   

Avoid contact with others. 

Do not travel while sick. 

Follow the universal precautions as listed above.  The Ohio Department of Health has opened a call center to answer questions regarding coronavirus 

(COVID19). 

The call center will be open 7 days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.  and can be reached at 1-833-4ASKODH (1-833-427-5634).  For more information please visit the Van Wert County General Health District 
website at  www.vanwertcountyhealth.org or follow Van Wert County Health Department on Facebook.   

 
March 13, 2020 - Friday the 13th
 

3-12-2020 - At the order of Governor Mike DeWine all school districts, including Parkway Local Schools must close at the end of the day Monday March 16, 2020 through April 3, 2020. This is in response to the COVID-19 Virus Outbreak. More information fro Parkway Parents and Students will follow soon.

Local Doctor Running for Coroner Covers COVID-19 in Video on You Tube and on Facebook

Dr. Norman Means gave an informative talk on COVID-19 on FB and we put it on
Youtube as well.  

Click Below:

https://youtu.be/Xl5jY9WfuaA

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – March 12, 2020

CELINA- The Mercer County Health District (MCHD) is still waiting on the test results for the person under investigation for COVID-19 in Mercer county. Once we receive notification of the results, we will inform the public.

The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic on March 11, 2020. Currently, the CDC reports 1,215 confirmed cases, 26 deaths, and 43 states with COVID-19. There are 5 confirmed cases and 52 persons under investigation in Ohio.

Significant measures have been taken to help slow down the spread of COVID-19. By doing this, health officials hope to delay or avoid a substantial risk of harm to many people. Of particular concern are the elderly and those who have weakened immune systems or chronic health problems.  

As of March 12, 2020, the Director of Ohio Department of Health, Amy Acton, MD, MPH, signed an order prohibiting mass gatherings in the State of Ohio. A mass gathering is any event that brings together one hundred (100) or more persons in a single room or single space at the same time. Examples include an auditorium, stadium, arena, large conference room, meeting hall, theater, or any other confined indoor or outdoor space. This would also include parades, fairs, and festivals. A mass gathering does not include normal operations at airports, bus and train stations, medical facilities, libraries, shopping malls and centers, and other spaces where 100 or more persons may be in transit. For further information and guidance, refer to the Order to limit and/or Prohibit Mass Gatherings in the State of Ohio.

Governor Mike DeWine announced on March 12, 2020, beginning at the conclusion of the school day on Monday, March 16, all K-12 schools will close to students through Friday, April 3. This order includes all public, community, and private K-12 schools in the state, but does not apply to Ohio’s childcare system such as daycare centers and home-based childcare providers. For further information and guidance, refer to ODH press release.

MCHD continues to do everything we can to maintain a high level of preparedness. We are in constant communications with the Ohio Department of Health, regional, county, and community partners. MCHD urges you to get your information from credible sources rather than spreading false information. Also, we encourage citizens to treat each other with kindness. 

If you have any questions, please contact the Mercer County Health District at 419-586-3251.

Niswonger Performing Arts Center Temporary Closing In Response To State Mandate In Wake of COVID-19

(Van Wert, OH) - The VWAPAF Board and Staff presenting Van Wert Live events are dismayed to share that the Niswonger Performing Arts Center will temporarily close until April 6 due to the State of Ohio Ban on Public Performances. Broadway's Finding Neverland scheduled for this Saturday, March 14 is canceled. Patrons will be fully refunded for Broadway's Finding Neverland ticket purchase(s) by a company check to arrive by mail. The I Am, He Said concert on March 21 is now rescheduled for Sunday, June 14, 2020. All tickets currently sold for I AM, HE SAID will be honored. We greatly value our patrons and their safety. Please stay tuned to future updates through our Facebook Page and Email communications. More than ever, the future of entertainment in Van Wert is eagerly anticipated.

Mercer Health Cancellations, Restrictions and Closures due to COVID-19 Pandemic

Social distancing is imperative at this critical time in the COVID-19 pandemic.  In order to best protect our patients, staff and the community, the following cancellations, restrictions and closures have been put into place. 

Cancellations

·         All community outreach events are cancelled until further notice including the Spring Healthy Community Day scheduled for April 4th. 

Closures

·         Hazelnut Coffee at Mercer Health’s Mercer County Community Hospital is closed effective immediately and until further notice.

·         The Cedar Table at Mercer Health’s Mercer County Community Hospital will be limited to those with an essential purpose to be at the hospital (staff, support person for delivery mothers, etc.).

Restrictions

·         Extensive visitor screening protocols are being developed and will be released soon.  At this time, the visitor restrictions put in place in January, due to widespread influenza, are still in effect.  In addition, all non-essential visitors are asked to refrain from visiting.

Updates to these cancellations, restrictions and closures will be released as available.  For information regarding guidelines on when and how to seek care for COVID-19, visit: https://mercer-health.com/guidelines-covid-19

Up-to-date statewide information for the State of Ohio is available at coronavirus.ohio.gov.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides the most timely and accurate information for the entire nation, including travel information, prevention and treatment tips, and other resources, and is available at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

Parkway Students dressed up for Flannel Friday FFA

By Parkway FFA Reporter Ansley Burtch 

During the week of February 22nd through the 29th, the Parkway FFA chapter, along with all FFA chapters around the nation, celebrated National FFA Week. To kick off the week, Parkway decided on themed dress up days to entice student participation, hosted agricultural games at lunch, picked at the student body’s brains with trivia about agriculture, and encouraged school spirit towards the National FFA Organization! On Tuesday, Parkway’s chapter invited all students to drive their tractors to school for a chance to win a prize. Wednesday involved a truck drive in day with the same opportunities. Throughout the entire week Parkway’s chapter hosted a coloring contest for their elementary school and a school-wide canned food drive—the cans collected were donated to Parkway’s local food pantry. There was money also collected during the canned food drive as an easier way for students to participate, this money bought canned meat for the food pantry as well as the previous collections. Parkway’s FFA chapter wrapped up FFA Week with their annual petting zoo as a way for the students to experience farm animals and a school-wide pep session with agricultural competitions between teacher and student teams! Parkway FFA has hosted another successful National FFA Week and is excited for next year.  

Parkway Student Wins State FFA Creed speaking contest

By Parkway FFA Reporter Ansley Burtch 
 

Carter Hellwarth has recently made history within the Parkway FFA Chapter. On Saturday, March 7th Carter traveled to Marysville, Ohio and competed in the Creed Speaking CDE. The Marysville competition is recognized as the state Creed Speaking contest for the state of Ohio. Carter memorized the FFA creed. which consists of five paragraphs and acts as a pledge. After weeks of preparation Carter was ready to compete. He stood in front of judges and recited the creed with enthusiasm and a clear voice. After hours of waiting, Carter was notified of his placing. Carter Hellwarth made history in the Parkway FFA chapter by being the first member to win the State Creed Speaking CDE.  

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update

Kristy Fryman, Emergency Response Coordinator/Health District Public Information Officer 3-10-2020

CELINA- The Mercer County Health District (MCHD) is monitoring a person under investigation (PUI) for the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Samples from the PUI have been taken and were sent to private lab for testing. Results are expected in the coming days. The MCHD, working in collaboration with ODH, is monitoring the individual and their contacts. MCHD will not be sharing the identification or health status of the person under investigation for COVID-19.

As we monitor the situation of infectious disease in the community, information will be shared as necessary to protect the public while considering the rights to privacy of the ill individual. Earlier this week, MCHD activated our incident command system (ICS) structure to increase our level of situational awareness and monitoring COVID-19. “We are doing everything we can to maintain a high level of preparedness,” said MCHD Administrator Jason Menchhofer. To help prevent infection with 2019-nCoV, take the precautions you normally would during cold and flu season:  

Frequently wash your hands for 20 seconds or more with soapy water.

If unavailable, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.  

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid contact with people who are sick.

Stay home while you are sick (except to visit a health care professional) and avoid close contact with others.

If you need to see a healthcare provider, call ahead before going.  

Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.

Get adequate sleep and eat well-balanced meals to ensure a healthy immune system.

Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Yesterday, Governor DeWine announced recommendations for gatherings.

The guidance is as follows:  Higher Education: Governor DeWine has asked all universities and colleges in Ohio to screen students returning

 to school from international travel or cruises, including, but not limited to, students returning from spring break travel.

Governor DeWine also asked that any university-sponsored international travel, non-essential travel, and large gatherings be canceled or postponed. Higher education institutions should also consider offering online/remote learning.  

K – 12 Schools: Governor DeWine is not currently recommending the closure of elementary, middle, and high· schools, however, school administrators should begin planning for that possibility. Parents should also begin planning for the potential that they may need to stay home with their children or find alternate child care solutions.

Athletics: Governor DeWine has recommended that all indoor high school, college, and professional sports· competitions be held without spectators. He asks that events take place only with athletes, parents, sporting officials, and media. Right now, outdoor sporting events can continue as planned.  

Nursing Homes: Because nursing homes house Ohio’s most high-risk residents, we are recommending that nursing homes screen all visitors, including volunteers and vendors, for symptoms of contagious illnesses.   

Adult and Juvenile Correctional Facilities: Governor DeWine has ordered that visitations at Ohio’s adult and juvenile corrections facilities be suspended.

Contractors who are not critical to the workings of the facility will not be granted entrance. Those who are permitted into these facilities will be screened for symptoms of illness and must submit to a temperature reading.

Information on COVID-19 continues to rapidly change, please visit CDC Coronavirus Disease 2019 & ODH COVID-19 for the latest information. ODH has established a call center for the public regarding COVID-19 it can be reached at 1-833- 427-5634. MCHD will continue to monitor the situation and will provide updates as warranted.

If you have any questions, please contact the Mercer County Health District at 419-586-3251.

WEATHER SPOTTER TRAINING CLASS UPDATE

Due to the probable mass gathering executive order from Governor DeWine being announced, the National Weather Service Wilmington Office is cancelling the March 30th Weather Spotting Class.  

Mercer County will still be participating in the Statewide Tornado Drill on March 25th at 9:50 am

Parkway Music Department Reports on OMEA Contest Cancellation

By Mr. Ryan Twigg and Mrs. Leslie Baltzell

As many of you already know, we are in uncharted territories currently with the China Coronavirus.  The Executive Director of the Ohio Music Education Association has announced that ALL OMEA Adjudicated Events are cancelled for the remainder of the school year. There is still much uncertainty surrounding all of the student music activities through the remainder of the school year.  We are disappointed for our students, especially seniors, who have put in the time and effort to learn their music and prepare for these events.  We are, however, proud of our students for their dedication and hard work.

OHSSA GAMES CANCELLED!!

Regional Boys Basketball Games
to Be Broadcast Live on TV-44 and WOSN

In response to the OHSAA attendance restriction for the Regional Boys Basketball Tournament, WTLW (Spectrum Ch. 4) and its sister station WOSN (Spectrum Ch. 997) will live broadcast the following games:

Wednesday, March 11

WOSN                           7:00 pm     Lima Senior vs. Toledo Start

WTLW                           8:00 pm     Ottawa Glandorf vs. Colonel Crawford 

Thursday, March 12

WOSN and WTLW       6:15 pm     Shawnee vs. Upper Sandusky

Friday, March 13

WTLW                           7:00 pm     Parkway vs. Columbus Grove

Celina Police Department NEWS RELEASE 03/11/2020

On 03/10/2020 the Celina Police Department received information from Crimestoppers out of Allen County Indiana regarding Scott M. Glenn (age 27).  The information given advised that Mr. Glenn held two felony warrants out of Allen County, Indiana for Escape and Violation of Home Dentention / Carrying a Handgun without a Permit.  It was reported that he was at his mother’s residence at 1100 Myers Road, Apt. 5 and she would deny he was there. 

At approx. 2238 hours Celina Police officers along with deputies from the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office went to 1100 Myers Rd., Apt. 5 and made contact with Scott's mother and boyfriend.  They were identified as Christi L. Haas (age 45) and Carl A. Bowman II (age 45).  They denied Scott was inside and refused a consent to search at first.  They were warned that they would be arrested for obstructing justice when Scott was found coming from the apartment.  A deputy heard banging and movement in the back bedroom of the apartment.  A short time later, Christi and Carl came outside.  Christi then told officers they could check the apartment. 

Scott was found hiding in the attic.  He was taken in to custody on the felony warrants. 

Christi and Carl were both arrested for felony obstructing justice and incarcerated.

The Celina Police Department was assisted by the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, Celina Fire Department, and Coldwater Police Department.

Men’s Prostate Cancer Group to Tour Rehab Center

Man to Man is a group to support men who have been diagnosed with or have been treated for prostate cancer or who would like more information about prostate cancer.  At the next meeting the group will tour the Grand Lake Health System Rehab Services Center. The meeting will be held at 7:00PM on Tuesday, March 17th at the Grand Lake Rehab Center, 1065 Hager Street in St. Marys. The atmosphere is casual and all interested men are invited to attend.  For more information contact Dick Falkner, facilitator, at 419-629-9950 or mantoman@nktelco.net.

Parkway Schools Confirm Cancellation of Tournament Action

The Parkway Panthers were Regional Bound on Tuesday, March 10 in Bowling Green after having won 44-42 against Tiffin Calvert in Sectional action last week.

A notice came out today from the OHSAA:

OHSAA Postpones All Remaining Winter Tournaments

Includes boys basketball regional and state tournaments, along with ice hockey, wrestling and girls basketball state tournaments

COLUMBUS, Ohio –At 12:45 p.m. Thursday, the Ohio High School Athletic Association announced that all remaining winter tournament contests are immediately postponed due to the growing situation with the coronavirus COVID-19.

The suspended tournaments include the girls state basketball tournament; the state individual wrestling tournament; the state ice hockey tournament, and the boys regional and state basketball tournaments.

“We will use this time to work with the appropriate state authorities and health experts to determine our next steps moving forward,” Snodgrass said. “We realize this is disappointing for our participants and their fans, but the overall health and safety of everyone involved in our tournaments is our priority.”

No timetable has been determined for possible rescheduling for the tournaments.

The announcement was made after state and local officials recommended that no public gatherings take place to help stop the spread of the virus.

 
March 9-12, 2020 
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 15 years!
 

21st Century Club Bicentennial Tea Planned for Sunday, May 3, 2020

Tickets go on sale Thursday, March 19, 2020 for the Rockford Bicentennial High Tea planned by the art and literary club in Rockford called the  21st Century Club. Seating is limited. Tables of 8 for groups are available.

The event will be held at the Shanes Park Community building from 1-2:30 PM on Sunday, May 3, 2020. Tickets will be available at the Rockford Village Office (419-363-3032) beginning March 19. The tea is for folks 13 years and older.  A $20 ticket provides the attendee with tea (or water), fresh-baked scones & toppings, unique sandwiches, and an array of sweets.

All three courses will be served to guests by the club members. Beautifully decorated tables are being planned, and old time musical entertainment will be provided by Chatt native Paula Stephenson Schumm on two dulcimers and an autoharp. Her instruments are hand-made by her husband, Rockford native Herb Schumm.

Attendees of this event are encouraged to dress in any period they choose with hats and gloves or other accessories. Bringing your favorite teacup is also an option.  All proceeds from this event will go to the Rockford Bicentennial Committee for future activities in 2020. Call 419-733-3326 for more information.

 
March 6-8, 2020 
 

Congratulations to the Parkway Varsity Basketball Team on their District Tournament win, first in Panther history.
They beat the Marion Local Flyers on Friday Night 3-6-2020 at Wapakoneta Gymnasium. Final Score 41-31. The team now goes on to Regional tournament action at Bowling Green, Ohio on Tuesday night 3-10-2020 at 8 PM

Parkway Schools will be on a 2 hour delay on Wednesday morning, 3-11-2020.

 
March 4-5, 2020  
 

BICENTENNIAL ARTICLES - CLICK HERE

Lake Area Arts Group hosts Watercolors with Artist Twyla Hayes

Twyla Hayes gets her inspiration and enjoys painting the flowers from her garden.  She is currently working in watercolors to create a display of sunflowers.

Twyla is the owner of Brand It Marketing Communications that opened its doors in 2004.  She has a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design and Marketing with a Specialize Degree in Visual Communications from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh.  For 13 years she instructed graphic design at Wright State University Lake Campus. 

Artist Opening Reception will be held Friday, March 20, 6:00-8:00 pm, at Richardson Bretz Building, 119 W. Fulton St., Celina.  Participants, family, friends and art enthusiasts are invited to meet the artist, Twyla Hayes.  People will be able to view her beautiful work and listen to Twyla share her enthusiasm for her lovely creations.  Come and join others for an informative and pleasant evening.  Refreshments will be provided.  All are welcome.

A workshop on Watercolors will be conducted by Twyla on Saturday, March 21, 10-11:30 am, which also is held at Richardson Bretz Building.  In this workshop she will demonstrate a loose style of watercolor techniques.  Participants will have the option to experiment with original floral references as well as learn about a triad of color palettes and fun techniques.

The following article was written in the Rockford Free Press in 1883:

Seven thousand people attended the Soldier's Reunion here on Friday, August 10, 1883.  The reunion and program was held in the VanTilburg Grove, now Oak Park Addition in northwest Rockford.  The day was started with an artillery salute at 4 o'clock in the morning.  At 9 o'clock a parade with band and drum corps was held, followed by a program of music, speaking and dinners.  The afternoon was devoted to speeches, and the Battle of Chickamauga was re-enacted by the veteran's with a lot of shooting and smoke.

Horse Theft and Trailer Wreck Results in the Death of Two Horses

 Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports that his office received a call shortly before 7AM today (3-3-2020) of a horse trailer that was in the middle of the road on Wabash Road near Skeels Road.  Deputies arrived and found the trailer on its side with two horses inside.  Deputies quickly learned that the trailer and horses were stolen from the Mercer County Fairgrounds.   The investigation found that a third horse was missing from the fairgrounds as well.  

The Sheriff’s Office received numerous tips throughout the day from the community, which lead to a suspect.  Detectives were able to locate the suspect and he cooperated with the investigation.   At this time arraignments are being made to return the third horse to its owner.  Several other items were also stolen from the horse barn such as tack, saddle, race cart, wheels, horse shoes, etc.  These items are also in the process of being recovered. 

Detectives found that the suspect was unfamiliar with the workings of the ball hitch, which is what caused the trailer to come unhooked from the truck and caused the trailer to overturn.  Unfortunately the two horses involved in the crash have expired as a result of their injuries. 

Arrested was 21 year old John R Eicher of Berne, Indiana.  Eicher was arrested for theft and is currently incarcerated in the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility.  Bond has been sent at $100,000.00 subject to 10% by Municipal Court Judge Kathy Speelman.  

The case will be sent to Mercer County Prosecutor Matt Fox for review and the possibility of additional charges.  

Sheriff Grey would like to thank the community for their tips that were received in this case.  Without the help of the community in this matter, this case would have been much harder to solve stated Sheriff Grey.

No other information will be released at this time as the investigation is continuing. 

Jeff Grey

Mercer County Sheriff

Mercer County EMA - CALENDAR OF EVENTS / MEETINGS :

Statewide Tornado Drill                              March 25, 2020 at 9:50 AM

2.   Weather Spotters Class                       March 30, 2020 from  6:00 – 8:00 PM at Dicke Hall, Wright State University Lake Campus

Remember!
Sunday, March 8, 2020 - Daylight Saving Time Starts

Local Standard Time will change to Daylight Savings Time on
Sunday, March 8, 2020, at 2:00 am when clocks are turned forward 1 hour.

Sunrise and sunset will be about 1 hour later on March 8, 2020 than the day before. There will be more light in the evening.

It is also called Spring Forward, Summer Time, and Daylight Savings Time.

 
March 2-3, 2020 
 

Annual pancake and sausage breakfast coming to Willshire
The Willshire Lions Club will be holding the annual pancake and sausage breakfast on Saturday, March 14th.  The breakfast will be held from 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM at the Willshire American Legion (State Street next to Willshire Home Furnishings).  Donations will be accepted for the breakfast with proceeds being used to assist with various community needs and projects, including sponsoring an 8th grade trip for the Parkway Washington, D.C. trip.  Plan to join in for a delicious breakfast.

 
February 29, 2020 Leap Day and March 1, 2020
 

Rockford United Methodist Church Lenten Services Announced

Rockford United Methodist Church will be offering many opportunities for our community to gather and worship God together during the Lenten season leading up to our Celebration of the Resurrection on Easter Sunday.

Each Sunday morning our 8:30 and 10:30 worship experiences will focus what are often referred to as ‘The Seven Last Words of Christ’ and consider how they may be applied to our own lives.

‘Come Sit with Us’ mid-week worship services will begin on February 26, Wednesday evenings at 6:10 pm during this holy season. On Ash Wednesday, February 26, our mid-week service at 6:10 pm will include the imposition of ashes.

March 29, at the 10:30 worship experience, several of our youth will be baptized and confirmed. This step celebrates their baptisms and their willingness to be an active member of the United Methodist Church after weeks of study led by Nathan Rupp, Director of Youth and Family Ministries.

On Palm Sunday, April 5, there will be an emphasis on Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Senior Pastor Chip Steffy will speak  at both 8:30 and 10:30 worship experiences on the last two words spoken from the Cross.

At 7 pm on April 9, Maundy Thursday, there will be a Tenebrae service. Communion will be served and scripture readings from the Gospel of John will be shared while candles are extinguished. This service ends in darkness.

For Good Friday, April 10, there will be an actual Cross Walk; a procession from the church starting at noon, heading west towards the church’s property on Rockford West Road. There will be stops along the way, marking the stations of the Cross.

That evening starting at 6pm and lasting until 9 pm, RUMC youth will sponsor a Prayer Path in the church sanctuary. This event offers quiet time and opportunities to stop, meditate and pray. This is a self-guided path and allows the participant to linger as long as desired. This chance to experience quiet time in prayer will be offered again on Saturday, from 6-9pm.

On April 12, Easter celebration will begin with a Sunrise Service at 7 am, led by the RUMC Youth group. A breakfast, prepared by the HSP Mission Team will be offered in the church Social Room following the Sunrise Service. Proceeds from this breakfast will provide funds for the group’s mission trip to Frakes, KY in July.

Worship services on Easter Sunday will occur at 8:30 and 10:30 am with Education classes for all ages at 9:30 am. You are welcome to join us as we celebrate all that makes Easter and God’s promises so special. The church is located at 202 South Franklin Street, behind the firehouse in Rockford.

PERI to Meet

The Mercer County PERI will hold their next meeting on Tuesday, March 10th, 2020 at 10:00 AM at the Hopewell Grange Hall on the Mercer County Fairgrounds, Celina, Ohio.  Guest speaker will be Doug Wolters, Fire Chief for the City of Celina.  Members are reminded that Lifetime or Annual membership dues for can be paid at the meeting to Treasurer, Mary Wright. 

        As always, donuts, coffee, & juice will be available to members arriving early beginning at 9:30 AM.

        Sharon Heitbrink, Secretary Mercer County PERI

Empty Bowls Mercer County Dinner & Auction

CELINA - On Saturday, April 4th, Our Home Family Resource Center will be serving up a good time at the 3rd Annual Empty Bowls Mercer County Dinner & Auction. The event will be held at American Legion Post 210 in Celina. Doors open at 5:30pm, dinner will begin at 6:30pm.

Empty Bowls is a fun and family-friendly evening that brings the local community together to raise vital funds for Our Home. The dinner features a delicious, simple meal of savory soups and breads donated by local restaurants and bakeries, homemade desserts, and a salad bar. Soft drinks are included in the ticket price, a cash bar is available for adult beverages.

Every ticket holder gets to choose a hand-painted souvenir bowl to use for the evening and to take home as a reminder of their personal contribution to filling the empty bowls in Mercer County. All the bowls were painted and donated by volunteers at Our Home’s “Create A Bowl” event in January.

The dinner is anchored by a four-flight silent auction, with door-prize drawings and raffles throughout the evening. Auction items include tickets to regional theme parks, zoos, cultural and sporting events as well as gift cards and certificates from local restaurants and boutiques. The Soup Can Raffle, a crowd favorite, offers dinner guests a 1 in 100 chance to win $250.

“We love this Empty Bowls event - it is so uplifting to see everyone enjoying the meal and bidding on auction items because they want to make a contribution to help people who are struggling,” said Deb Simon-Heinfeld, Our Home’s Marketing & Development Coordinator. “It brings people and businesses from all across Mercer County together to raise funds for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, children separated from their parents, folks struggling to buy prescriptions or cover the cost of their utilities, and families with special needs children.”

All proceeds from Empty Bowls will be directed to support the services Our Home provides. A few examples of the cost for these services include: $1000 can shelter and provide support for an abused mom and her children for a month; $300 will fund a weekend of respite for the guardian of a special needs child; $150 can provide supervision for a non-custodial father to meet his child for the first time; $50 will operate the crisis helpline for one week; $25 can provide support and counseling for a person facing a financial emergency; and, $10 will provide a 3-day supply of nourishing food for a family of four.

Tickets for Empty Bowls Dinner & Auction can be purchased at Our Home Family Resource Center, Chiefs Supermarkets in Celina and Coldwater, or by calling 419-586-4663. Tickets are $25, it costs an additional $10 to reserve a specific bowl.

Our Home Family Resource Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located at 117 W. Fayette Street in Celina. The organization’s work is possible with resources provided through monetary and in-kind donations from private individuals, groups, and corporations and money awarded through grants. Learn more at www.ourhomefrc.com

Our Old Bookcase, January 23, 2020,  Commissioners founded Mercer County Historical Society and the County Museum

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

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Photo caption:  In 1957, the Mercer County Commissioners held meetings for the purpose of planning and funding the Mercer County Historical Society, and the Mercer County Historical Museum, as confirmed by two Attorneys and one Bank President, at the January 28, 1959 Record of Proceedings.

Sixty two years ago, on the January 28, 1958 Records of Proceedings of the Mercer County Historical Society, Roscoe D. Riley, President; Carleton C. Reiser, Vice-President, and C.A. Stubbs, Secretary-Treasurer, signed their names in ink.  Be it noted that Roscoe D. Riley was President of the Citizens Commercial Bank and Trust Co.; Carleton C. Reiser was the Celina Municipal Judge, and C.A. Stubbs was a former Mercer County Prosecuting Attorney.  Both Reiser and Stubbs were Members of the Mercer County Bench and Bar.  The Commissioners met with the three gentlemen, trusted Citizens of Celina.

The Mercer County Historical Society Officers passed the Resolution, “Whereas, the Board of County Commissioners of Mercer County have informally been meeting with Roscoe D. Riley, Carleton C. Reiser, and C.A. Stubbs, to start a Mercer County Historical Society for the purpose of preserving Mercer County’s history, through public education and the collection of historical items for a County Museum.” 

“Whereas, funds are necessary for the establishment of the Mercer County Historical Society, the Mercer County Commissioners have encouraged the Officers to apply for funds for this Society.”

[See the copy of the attached Meeting Minutes for the complete set of minutes.]

The Mercer County Commissioners did provide $4000 in funds for the Mercer County Historical Society, Inc., in 1958.  In their Resolution #164, dated August 28, 1959, the Mercer County Commissioners signed their positions as “Charter Members of the Mercer County Historical Society.”

In quest for more information as to why the Mercer County Commissioners made the decision to plan and fund the Mercer County Historical Society, Inc. and the Mercer County Historical Museum, on October 25, 2011, two decades ago, as President of the Mercer County Historical Society, Inc. since January 1972, I requested the minutes of the Mercer County Commissioners’ meetings with the three gentlemen, in 1957.

The Mercer County Commissioners’ Clerk Kim Everman responded in her November 7, 2011 letter to me:  “Letter 5 – requesting copy of minutes of public meetings between Mercer County Commissioners and Roscoe Riley, Carleton Reiser, and Carroll Stubbs to plan and implement County Historical Society and public museum. . . I have reviewed the minutes for the time period you have quested.  To the best of my knowledge, there are no minutes in this office during that time documenting what you have described.

Respectfully Submitted,  Kim Everman, Clerk/Adm.”

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

Photo caption:  Linneman, McMahon and Brandon stood at their Prospecting Cabin, on Wolverine Creek, Alaska, the winter of 1899-1900.  It was 47 degrees below zero, Wednesday, January 17, 1900. This photograph was copied from a glass negative, dated in 1900, over 120 years ago.

“A Ton of Gold,” was the term used by the June 17, 1897 newspapers at Seattle, Washington, when the Steamship “Portland” arrived with $700,000 in gold.  The day before, June 16, 1897, the Steamship “Excelsior” arrived at San Francisco, and the newspapers wrote that sixty-eight gold prospectors brought three quarters of a million dollars in gold dust.  The gold rush changed the course of the history of Alaska.

Men from Lima, St. Marys, and Celina, who had worked on the oil wells during the “Oil Boom,” in this area and the Reservoir and made the decision to form a Company, and head to the gold rush at Alaska.  A.E. Curly Linneman, Ed Streuber, George Brandon, Wes Calkins, Ves McMahon and James Zura Riley constructed a Steamer for their trip up the Yukon River to interior Alaska.  They dismantled their Steamer,  the “D. Armstrong,” and traveled with it via train to Seattle.   At Seattle, they purchased food, shoes, moccasins, suits of underwear, sweaters, wool shirts, rubber boots, socks, mukluks, hats, and tools.

They boarded the Steamer Lakme and headed through the Inside Passage to Juneau, Alaska, and then to Dutch Harbor, and arrived at St. Michael.  This was no calm canoe ride; they suffered through bad weather and high seas, en route to the Yukon River.  At St. Michael, they unloaded their gear and reconstructed their Steamer, with plans to head up the Yukon River.  Their D. Armstrong Steamer was named for their former meeting place, the David Armstrong at St. Marys, Ohio.  The wooden sternwheeler was 56 feet long, with a 16 foot beam and 4 foot hold.  The first winter, 1898-1899, they worked the land along the Koyukuk River, without a lot of luck in finding gold.

The winter of 1899-1900, they moved their Steamer to the Chena River.  In quest of finding gold, the men would start to dig a hole and build a fire to melt the frozen dirt, and left it for the night.  The next morning, they would dig out that dirt, and in the evening, they would build another fire in each hole, and repeat the process, in order to reach bedrock.  As the hole got deeper, they would construct at pulley system, a windlass, with a bucket, to haul up the dirt they removed.  At bedrock, they sought gold dust.

This is a description from their diaries, of one week, over a Century ago.  Sunday morning, January 14, 1900, the temperature dropped to 38 below zero.  The men left their Steamer at 8:30 A.M.; they had a little problem with “overflow” in two places.  They arrived at their cabin in the gulch at 2:25 P.M. and found Curly had two holes started.  It had been so cold that Curly “had frosted both his heels.”  Sunday evening was even colder; the temperature dropped to 40 below.  Monday, Curly and Ves worked at the holes and George did the cabin work.  Tuesday, Curley put another window in the cabin while George baked bread.  Ves went up the trail and brought down a dry tree, for wood for their fire in the cabin and for the holes they were working.  Wednesday, the temperature was 47 below zero in the morning and was 43 below that evening.  Curly worked at the windlass.  Thursday morning, it was still 46 below.  Curly and Ves went down to their cache, and brought up a load of goods.  Brandon took his turn at cooking and baked a “None Such Fruit Cake.”  Friday, the temperature stayed in the forties.  [Note that the other three men of this crew, were at another site, where they had built a different small cabin to work that site.]

George Brandon and James Zura Riley kept diaries of their crew’s two years of seeking gold in Alaska.  To write the book, I spent a few years studying the history of Alaska’s gold rush.  I interviewed old gold miners and visited their former camps at Alaska.  “Old Gold Rush to Alaska Diaries, 1898-1900,” is the title of my book, which was published by the Mercer County Historical Society, in 2001, in honor of Alaska’s Centennial of its Gold Rush.  This book is at Libraries, and the Mercer Co. Historical Museum.

Our Old Bookcase, Nov. 14, 2019, A Mississippi Family wrote a Mercer County family, in 1905