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January 12-16, 2022
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 17 years!
 

Trio to Enter Parkway Athletic Hall of Fame

Two former Parkway Athletes and one former Mendon Athlete will enter the Hall of Fame on Friday, January 21, 2022 at approximately 6:30 PM between the JV and Varsity Game at Parkway High School. There will be a reception to meet the Hall of Fame inductees.

They include Jordan Thompson, Rebekah (Roehm) Agner and Mike Griggs.

JORDAN THOMPSON CLASS OF 2008 Jordan earned 12 varsity letters during his high school athletic career competing in football, basketball, and baseball for the Panthers. On the baseball diamond, Jordan played catcher for the Panthers and was named 1st team All Midwest Athletic Conference (MAC) during his Junior and Senior seasons. In basketball, Jordan scored 720 career points and pulled down 580 career rebounds over the course of his 4 seasons on the hardwood. He was named 1st Team All MAC during his senior season. On the football field, Jordan recorded a school record 476 total tackles on defense, and also holds the single season tackle record with 157 . He was named MAC Defensive Player of the Year during both his Junior and Senior seasons, and was also selected as Division V Co Defensive Player of the Year in the state of Ohio as a senior. On offense Jordan recorded 1,693 career rushing yards, and 23 rushing touchdowns. During his Senior campaign in 2007, the Panthers posted an 8-2 record, led by Head Coach Ed Kuhn. Jordan rushed for 14 touchdowns and threw for 19 more, finishing the season with a school record for passing yards in a single season with 2,172. In all, Jordan accounted for 50 touchdowns in his career. After high school, Jordan continued his academic and athletic career at Ohio University and earned his engineering degree in 2012. While in Athens, Jordan started in 47 consecutive games at tight end for the Bobcats catching 60 passes for 666 yards and 6 touchdowns for head coach Frank Solich. After college Jordan signed with the Detroit Lions on April 28, 2014, and made his NFL debut on October 19, 2014, against the New Orleans Saints. Jordan played for the Lions until May 2016, becoming the first Parkway Panther to play in the NFL.

REBEKAH (ROEHM) AGNER CLASS OF 2006 Rebekah earned three varsity letters in volleyball. She was a member of the 2005 State Runner-Up Volleyball team. She holds the school record for kills in a season with 549 and for a career with 1,213. Rebekah holds the record for blocks in a season with 87 and for a career with 214. Rebekah was named 1st team all Midwest Athletic Conference in 2004 and 2005. She was the District 8 Player of the Year in 2004 and 2005. Rebekah earned 2nd team All-Ohio in 2004 and First Team All-Ohio in 2005. Rebekah attended IPFW (Indiana/Purdue Fort Wayne) where she was a 4 year letter winner. She was named to the 1st team All-Summit League in 2007, 2008 and 2009. In 2009, she was named the Summit League Tournament MVP while leading her team to their very first NCAA tournament appearance. She was named the IPFW Athlete of the Year in 2010. Rebekah currently ranks in the top 10 in several categories at IPFW including kills, kills per set, attack attempts, aces, block assists, points, points per set and matches played.

MIKE GRIGGS MENDON-UNION CLASS OF 1973 Mike earned 10 varsity letters at Mendon-Union; 4 in basketball, 4 in baseball and 2 in cross country. In basketball, Mike scored 1,524 points during his career. He was a three-time Mercer County League (MCL) All-Star while becoming the first player to lead the league in scoring three straight seasons. He was named the MCL Player of the Year in 1972. Mike also earned District 8 All Star status in 1973. In baseball, Mike was twice named to the MCL All-Star team. He attended Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology where he went on to earn 7 varsity letters; 4 in basketball and 3 in baseball. In basketball, Mike is 20th in career scoring with 1,152 points and 12th in career assists with 282. He was named First Team All-Conference in 1977 on the best team in school history at 24-4. Mike was elected to the Rose-Hulman Athletic Hall of Fame in 1996.

Together on Christmas 2021

Rockford area churches combined this year to serve the community with a free meal, Together on Christmas.  In the beautifully decorated Rockford Community Building, a delicious meal of chicken in cream sauce, baked pork chop, mashed potatoes and gravy, homemade stuffing, green beans, roll and a dessert buffet was provided for dine in/sit down or as takeout.  More than 100 servants worked to provide this labor of love along with 50 dessert bakers.  Approximately 550 meals were served on Christmas Day.

Bridge Inspection

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart announced recently that the yearly bridge inspections of Mercer County’s 379 bridges on township and county roads have been completed.  Engineer Wiechart completed the inspections before the end of 2021.

“Bridge inspection is completed annually for several very important reasons.  First our bridge maintenance/work orders are generated directly from our yearly inspections.  Secondly, decisions on future bridge replacements/rehabilitations are made as a result of the condition ratings garnered from the inspection.  Third and most importantly, we inspect them to protect the public that uses them each day.” 

In Ohio, the professionally licensed and elected County Engineer manages and oversees bridge inspections on township and county roadways.  Any questions, concerns about bridges may be directed to the engineer’s office.

St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH recently made a generous donation to C.A.L.L Ministries to benefit the Parkway and Celina Back Pack Programs as well as the Food Pantry. Arlene Steinbrunner, volunteer for C.A.L.L Ministries accepted the check from church member Bob Cook.

 

Donation to Kingdom Harvest Ministries

St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH recently made a donation to Kingdom Harvest Ministries. Tom Sanford, director of the program accepted the check from member Sheila Baltzell-Linn.

KHM teaches Bible classes at off-site locations, during the school day, to interested students at Celina and Parkway Schools. They are the first program to also offer college credit for the classes.

 
January 8-11, 2022
 

Pastor Doug Meyer Returns to St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, January 16, 2022. Retired Pastor Doug Meyer will be back in the pulpit. He will have a Children’s time before Children’s Church which usually involves cookies!

Doug’s lesson on January 2, 2022 was based on the Gospel lesson of Matthew 2:1-12 and entitled “You Can Never Go Home the Same Way” covered the Bible lesson of Epiphany when the wise men came to worship the newborn Jesus. They had stopped at King Herod’s seeking directions. Herod asked that they return to him when their task was complete, so that they would bring King Herod the directions so he could go and worship as well. But angels warned them not to return to Herod who was plotting to kill Jesus. They went home by a different route. Pastor Doug reminded us that when we meet and truly embrace Jesus, we can never go home the same way again. Our lives are changed forever.

Doug’s lesson on Sunday , January 16, 2022 will be from the Gospel of Mark 2: 1-12 entitled “Whatever it Takes”.

Doug has been in the ministry for 50 years and is retired from St. John’s Lutheran Church in Celina. He delivers a powerful message from the Bible.  

Sunday School is at 9:30 am. Children’s Message and Children’s Church are on the 1^st, 3^rd and 5^th Sundays monthly.

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

Visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for information as well, run by Karen Ousley.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – please consider joining us once or twice, at least, to see for yourself how we worship our Lord Jesus Christ.

Winter Reminder from Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart and Snowplow crews

During snow and ice removal nothing prevents crews from doing a safe and efficient job of clearing roadways more than abandoned vehicles on and along county roadways that either slow or obstruct snowplows from getting county roads open.

Here are a few winter safety driving tips that hopefully will allow snowplow crews to provide safe travel this winter for Mercer County motorists:

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

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

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

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

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

If clearing driveway, do not push snow to the approach side of mailbox (place it on the exit side of the mailbox).

Stay abreast of the road conditions and advisories issued by the local media.

Children’s Activities at St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

Christmas Eve was recently enjoyed by the children and the congregation at St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford.

On Friday, December 24, 2021 at 7 PM the children of St. Paul’s Church practiced and held a very special Childrens’ Play for the Christmas Eve service. Entitled “Manger Tales” – a Christmas point of View from the animals, the “animals” were interviewed about hosting the newborn Baby Jesus in their stable in Bethlehem. Christmas hymns were also sung by candlelight.

Click on smaller thumbnail photos to enlarge them.

 
January 4-7, 2022
 

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports that his office received a 911 call at 6:49 AM this morning.  The caller reported an injury accident involving a car and semi and that one of the vehicles was in a pond. 

The investigation found that 65 year old Adil Sabanagic of Utica, New York, was driving his 2016 Volvo semi westbound on St Rte 29 near Harris Road.  36 year old Atsushi Tanaka of Sidney, Ohio was driving a 2021 Honda and was also westbound on St Rte 29.   Sabanagic was slowing or stopped in traffic to turn South on Harris Road.  It appears that Sabanagic may have missed his turn and began backing up to make the turn, when the trailer blocked part of the roadway.  Tanaka struck the back of the trailer.  Tanaka went off of the North side of the roadway, down the ditch, through a fence and came to rest submerged in a pond. 

The Celina Fire Department dive team was called to assist in rescue efforts for Tanaka.  Tanaka was pronounced deceased at the scene.  Grey reports that there is a witness to the crash as well as video of the crash that deputies are reviewing.  At this time the crash remains under investigation.

Deputies were assisted at the scene by members of the Celina Fire Department, Celina EMS, Saint Mary’s EMS, Ohio State Patrol and the Mercer County EMA.  Mercer County Coroner, Dr. Timothy Heinrichs was also notified of the crash and released the body to a local funeral home.

The Village of Rockford - 2022 Council  and Mayor


Back - Chris Heitkamp - Safety Committee, Luke Stephenson - Utility Committee,  Brad Now - Economic Development

Front - Mary Beougher - Service Committee, Mayor Amy Joseph,  Jessica Yoder- Rules Committee,
and Ron Searight - Finance Committee.

Thank you for serving!

Parkway School Board Agenda for a Organizational Meeting on January 12, 2022 at 6:00 pm
by Sally Cox

Parkway School Board Agenda for a Regular Meeting on January 12, 2022 at 6:30 pm
by Sally Cox

Parkway January 2022 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

The Voice Of The Buckeyes To Speak At The Niswonger

(Van Wert, OH) - The Ohio State Buckeyes scripted yet another successful season ending in a Rose Bowl Victory in Pasadena, CA. The Voice Of The Buckeyes, Paul Keels, was with them every step of the way for every play. Van Wert Live along with Presenting Sponsor, The Ohio State Alumni Association of Van Wert and Paulding Counties, is pleased to announce that Paul Keels will bring his distinguished voice and power-play stories to The Niswonger Performing Arts Center on Sunday, April 10 at 3:00 PM. 

Tickets from $19-29 are on sale now to Van Wert Live Members and release to the public on Friday, January 21. VWLive Memberships begin as low as $100 and provide 365 days of early buying opportunities for all Van Wert Live events.

Paul Keels’ booming voice fills rooms and cars with an unmistakable beat. His crisp play-calling on the radio of Ohio State football and basketball never leaves the listener in doubt. It’s graphic, efficient, and spot-on. Keels is now inextricably linked with the Buckeyes whose games he’s called for a score of years; through two national titles and three trips to the Final Four.

Players and coaches come and go. Yet schools’ longtime play-by-play announcers are as recognizable as the teams they cover. Fans think of them as longtime friends, those who share in the joy of victories and commiserate in the misery of defeats. They are forever part of the tapestry, drawing pictures of the familiar and the unfamiliar.

In this unimaginable world of digital conveniences, picture painting on the radio is a disappearing art. For years, radio was a necessity. It kept fans abreast. Still, today, there are many vibrant announcers who’ve presided over their friendly microphones for thirty or more years. They get it. Each one is an artist with his own distinct brush and palette.

Paul will share stories from his book "If These Walls Could Talk", which recollects his years with Ohio State’s football and basketball teams - coaches he’s covered, some of the big players with whom he interacted, and naturally, some of the big moments he witnessed.

2022 Annual sponsors making live entertainment happen in Van Wert are Central Insurance, First Federal Bank of Van Wert, and Statewide Ford-Lincoln. 

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – January 5, 2022
By Paige Keysor 

CELINA - As of January 5, 2022, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 6,281 confirmed cases, 1,412 probable cases, 5,853 recovered cases, 15 known hospitalizations, 112 COVID-19 deaths, and 22 probable deaths of COVID-19 among Mercer County residents. In addition, there have been 76 cases who have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19. Under the use of MCHD’s internal reinfection protocol, there have been 105 reinfection cases of COVID-19. Today, there are 248 known active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County.

There have been 162 confirmed and 50 probable cases of COVID-19 among fully vaccinated Mercer County residents. Of those individuals, 25 were hospitalized and have since recovered. Three fully vaccinated residents are currently hospitalized. Six have passed away.

The transmission rate of COVID-19 in Mercer County continues to be high. A high transmission rate is defined as 100 or more new cases per 100,000 people in a 7-day period or a test positivity rate of 10% or higher. Mercer County has seen 488 cases per 100,000 people in the past seven days and has a test positivity rate of 25.57%. This data can be found here: https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#county-view. 

As COVID-19 cases continue to increase, MCHD urges community members to maintain good hygiene practices, stay home when sick, and avoid crowded indoor places to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other seasonal viruses.

The MCHD continues to offer the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for first, second, third, and booster doses by appointment at the health department. More information on local COVID-19 vaccination opportunities can be found at  https://mchdohio.org/. Please call 419-586-3251, Option 2, to ask questions or schedule an appointment.

Lima Symphony Orchestra Brings Back Live Symphony Storytimes

Lima, OH (January 4, 2022) – The Lima Symphony Orchestra’s popular Symphony Storytime program returns over the next two weeks to libraries in Wapakoneta and Celina. Featuring a duet of Lima Symphony Orchestra musicians, this program will focus on the theme of opposites in music. Live programs will happen at the following locations:

Tuesday, January 11 at 10:30 AM - Auglaize County Public District Library (203 Perry St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895)

Tuesday, January 18 at 10:30 AM – Mercer County District Library (303 N Main St, Celina, OH 45822)

For this innovative program, children and their families will enjoy outstanding newer publications featuring the theme of “opposites.” This program features Big is Big (and little, little), by J. Patrick Lewis, Big Bear, Small Mouse by Karma Wilson, and The Tortoise or the Hare by Toni Morrison and Slade Morrison, all accompanied by live music from Lima Symphony Orchestra musicians. The program will draw parallels between concepts of contrast using musical examples to accompany the stories. With a focus on creative movement and music literacy, "Symphony Storytime" is designed to spark children’s imaginations and foster a lifelong love of and appreciation for music. This program is appropriate for all ages and is free and open to the public.

Books:

Big is Big (and little, little) by J. Patrick Lewis, illustrated by Bob Barner (2007)

Big Bear, Small Mouse by Karma Wilson, illustrated by Jane Chapman (2016)

The Tortoise or the Hare by Toni Morrison and Slade Morrison, illustrated by Joe Cepeda (2010)

Music Selections:

The Cakewalk from “Children’s Corner Suite” L. 113 by Claude Debussy

Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies from “The Nutcracker” by Pyotr Tchaikovsky

In The Hall of the Mountain King by Edvard Grieg

Minuet by Johann Sebastian Bach

These performances are part of the Lima Symphony’s ongoing commitment to music education and their firm belief that music and the other arts are critical tools in building strong communities.  This project is supported by the following underwriters:

Symphony Storytime Sponsors:

AC Dienstberger Foundation

G.A. Wintzer & Son Co.

State Bank

Thermal Gard Window and Door

Van Wert County Foundation

Mercer County Civic Foundation

 
January 1-3, 2022
 

CASA of Mercer County Swears in 9 New Court Appointed Special Advocates for Mercer County Children.

CASA of Mercer County is pleased to announce that it has sworn in 9 volunteers in its inaugural swearing-in ceremony for the Mercer County Juvenile Court on December 20, 2021.  Mercer County Probate/Juvenile Court Judge Matthew L. Gilmore presided over the ceremony and sworn in the new volunteers.  Mercer County Juvenile Court Magistrate Richard M. Delzeith was present as the Court Administrator for CASA of Mercer County.  CASA of Mercer County Executive Director Nick Schulze and Coordinator of Volunteer Services Kip Wright were also present.

Please join the program in congratulating the following volunteers as Mercer County’s first set of Court Appointed Special Advocates:

Chuck Meyer of New Bremen, who is currently employed at Crown Equipment in New Bremen.

Deb Hemmelgarn of St. Henry, who is currently employed at the MED Foundation in Coldwater.

Nikki Hemmelgarn of Coldwater, who is currently employed as a teacher in Coldwater.

Beth Smalley of Celina, who is currently employed at Mercer County ESC in Celina.

Angela Gibbons of Celina, who is currently employed at Crown Equipment in New Bremen.

Lisa Post of Celina, who was formerly employed at The Ohio State Medical Center in Columbus.

Sandy Dieringer of Celina, who was formerly employed at Foundations Behavioral Health Services in Celina.

Tannar Rutschilling of Celina, who is currently employed at Crown Equipment in New Bremen.

Ted Bertke of Celina, who was formerly employed at Leugers Insurance in Maria Stein.

The swearing-in ceremony was the final step taken by these community members after 30 hours of pre-service training prior to being sworn in to serve as a Court Appointed Special Advocate. Training equips community volunteers with all the skills needed to advocate for children who have been abused and/or neglected.

Now, as Court Appointed Special Advocates these volunteers will be appointed to cases open in juvenile court due to abuse, neglect, and/or dependency. They are then tasked with getting to know the children, becoming familiar with their special circumstances, and then making recommendations to the Court on what is in the children’s best interest. EVERY CHILD deserves someone in their corner amplifying their voice and their story. CASA volunteers are ordinary community members that make an extraordinary difference in the lives of children.

CASA of Mercer County is now accepting applications for its next training. They would love to talk to you about this new and impactful volunteer experience. If you would like to learn more about how you can make a difference in the lives of children in your county, check out CASA of Mercer County at www.mercercountycasa.org or on Facebook.

Come Hear Pastor Steve Howell St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, January 9, 2022. Retired Pastor Steve Howell will be in the pulpit continue with the book of John 14:25-31. His sermon is entitled “Jesus – Our Peace”.

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

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

Visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for information as well, run by Karen Ousley.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – please consider joining us to see for yourself how we worship our Lord Jesus Christ.

 
December 28-31, 2021
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 17 years!
 

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

 
December 24-27, 2021
 

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

 
December 22-23, 2021
 

New Business in Celina MADE Home and MADE Apparel
Recently the Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce had the pleasure to participate in the Grand Opening and Ribbon cutting of their newest member MADE Home & MADE Apparel. This new business located at 216 W. Fayette Street in Celina, OH offers a collection of home décor, gifts, and goods. This beautifully revived store front will bring you inspiration and a passion for making your house a home. They also specialize in screen print services as well. You can find information on Facebook but be sure to stop by and take a look for yourself. The store also accepts the Celina/Mercer Chamber Gift Certificates as well. Welcome to the chamber MADE Home / MADE Apparel. Pictured are Stacy Beougher, Chamber Director, Mayor Jeff Hazel, owners Emily Schiavone and Brooke Bader along with their families.

Willshire Hosting New Year's Day 5K

The first event celebrating Willshire's Bicentennial in 2022 is Capt. Riley's River Run 5K/Fun Run on January 1st, 2022. Join us for a refreshing run around the village settled by Capt. James Riley in 1822.

The run starts at 10 A.M.on New Year's Day. Registration begins at 9 A.M. at the Willshire American Legion on State St. in Willshire.

5K entry is $10 for those 16 and over. A second member of the same household is $8 and a family entry is $25 (same household). Under 16 is $5.

Fun Run entry is $7 for 16 and over, $3 under 16, and $13 for a family entry. Make checks payable to L.B.C.F. with 'Willshire Becentennial' on the memo line. There is an entry form pinned on the 'Willshire Bicentennial 2022' Facebook page.

Text/call 419-495-4022 entrants name(s) so that we know how many to plan for and for any questions you have.

If you're interested in a T-shirt or Hoodie, they can be ordered from The Kidz Treehouse  in Rockford.

(December 22, 2021) – ADVANCED INSURANCE GROUP
The owners of four local insurance agencies have announced a definitive merger agreement, which will greatly enhance their product and service offerings to customers in the Van Wert, Delphos and surrounding communities. The four companies involved in the merger are: Purmort Brothers Insurance Agency in Van Wert, Rhoades Insurance Agency in Van Wert, Schmit-Massa Insurance Agency in Delphos, and Jerry Gilden’s Nationwide Insurance Agency in Delphos and Van Wert.

NOW OPERATING AS ADVANCED INSURANCE GROUP

Purmort Brothers, Rhoades, Schmit-Massa and Jerry Gilden’s Nationwide Insurance Agencies have worked long and hard to create professional businesses that provide outstanding services to our community. These four companies, along with Aaron Anspach and Adam Anspach who also have a longstanding experience in the insurance industry, will now be operating as ADVANCED INSURANCE GROUP. The merger and name change will go into effect immediately.

Aaron and Adam Anspach bring to Advanced Insurance Group a combined 35 years’ experience in the insurance industry – with a background in personal and farm lines, commercial underwriting, claims and marketing. Aaron and Adam will be working hand-in-hand with the owners of Purmort Brothers, Rhoades, Schmit-Massa and Jerry Gilden’s Nationwide Insurance Agencies to ensure a smooth transition to the new brand under Advanced Insurance Group. Under this new partnership, customers can expect to work with the same knowledgeable and friendly staff they have come to know and trust throughout the years – with the addition of new employees and leadership to continue to grow stronger together.

Advanced Insurance Group will have 2 permanent locations: Van Wert and Delphos. The Van Wert location will be moving to the Purmort Brothers location at 101 W. Crawford Street, and the Delphos location will be moving to 403 N. Main Street. The staff and business leaders at all four merging agencies will remain the same and continue to work with customers as they join together under the Advanced Insurance Group brand. As demonstrated through each agency’s continuous involvement throughout the years, Advanced Insurance Group is deeply committed to staying in both communities.

For more information, please contact Adam Anspach by calling 419.238.6214.

 
December 17-21, 2021
 

Christmas is Coming!

Together on Christmas is Back!

TOGETHER ON CHRISTMAS, a free dinner on Christmas Day, returns December 25th, 2021 to the Rockford Community Building.  Begun in 2005 as a ministry outreach of the Rockford United Methodist Church, the first FREE Christmas Day Dinner was intended to serve hungry and lonely people who might not have a traditional Christmas Day dinner nor family with whom to share it. 

The 2020 event was cancelled in response to the COVID pandemic and Ohio health and safety guidelines for large gatherings. The 2021 return of TOGETHER ON CHRISTMAS is now a community event led by members and friends of the Rockford United Methodist, Rockford Bell Community, New Horizons Community, and St. Teresa Catholic churches.  

TOGETHER ON CHRISTMAS offers a free Christmas dinner to residents of Rockford and the surrounding area.  The Rockford Community Building is located at 402 Holly Lane near Shanes Park.   The 2021 Dinner will be served from 10:30- 1 pm. The 2021 menu includes chicken breast in cream sauce, baked pork chop, mashed potatoes & gravy, homemade dressing (stuffing), green beans, rolls/butter, and a dessert buffet.  

For additional information contact the Rockford United Methodist Church office at 419-363-3230, by email office.mgr.rumc@bright.net or at www.rumcoh.org.  Rev. ‘Chip’ Steffy is the pastor.

Rockford Business of the Year Announced

The Rockford Ohio Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Second Crossing Brew Co. as the 2021 Business of the
Year.   Their commitment and tireless involvement to the Rockford community has not gone unnoticed.
We are grateful and blessed to have you!

Photo -  owners


Todd McKee, Luke Stephenson,  and Luke Clouse  

HFNEI Announces Honor Flights President Change

Dennis Covert, President of Honor Flight Northeast Indiana (HFNEI), announced that effective January 19, 2022, he is voluntarily stepping-down as President.  

Dennis has been involved with HFNEI since 2010 and has served as president for 5 ½ years.  Mr. Covert stated; “It has been an honor and privilege to serve as president of HFNEI.  I loved my time as president and I look forward to serving as a member of the Board of Directors and continuing our mission of transporting veterans to Washington, D.C. to see the memorials that were built in their honor.”
 
Cathy Berkshire was elected as in-coming President of HFNEI at a Board of Directors meeting on November 17, 2021.  Cathy has been involved with HFNEI since 2009.  She has worked on fund-raising efforts, served as a guardian, bus leader, trip leader, and since 2014 has served as corporate secretary.  President-elect Cathy Berkshire said; “I serve on the HFNEI Board of directors in memory of all my family members that have served this great country since 1940.  I truly feel honored and blessed to serve our veterans with this amazing organization.  I am eager and excited to resume our Honor Flights in Spring 2022.”
 
Three Honor Flights are scheduled from Fort Wayne in the Spring of 2022.  For more information about upcoming flights, visit our website:  www.hfnei.org; Facebook:  www.facebook.com/hfnei  or call the Honor Flight phone at 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.

LIMA SYMPHONY RETURNS TO THE STAGE ON DECEMBER 31 FOR “CLASSICAL MYSTERY TOUR”

Lima, OH (December 17, 2021) – The Lima Symphony Orchestra returns to the stage on Friday, December 31 at 7:30 PM at the Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center (7 Town Square, Lima, OH 45801) for “Classical Mystery Tour” – a symphonic evening of The Beatles with the Lima Symphony Orchestra. Called “the world’s best Beatles show with symphony orchestra,” this concert faithfully honors the musical legacy of The Beatles. Led by Music Director Andrew Crust and Beatles’ reenactors Jim Owen, Tony Kishman, Joe Bithorn, and Chris Camilleri, this concert presents an authentic tribute to The Beatles’ most memorable hits with full orchestral backing.

Imagine what it would have been like to hear The Beatles perform live with a symphony orchestra. Well, now you can! The four musicians of “Classical Mystery Tour” present a faithful interpretation of familiar Beatles tunes with the rich orchestral backing of their later studio hits. From the brass bands of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band to the lush string accompaniment of Yesterday, this show allows you experience the Beatles as you never have before: live with your favorite hometown symphony! Delighting audiences for over 20 years, “Classical Mystery Tour” has performed with orchestras around the world, including the U.S., Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia.

This concert is underwritten by the following sponsor:

Reineke Family Dealerships

Tickets:  $30.   Tickets can be purchased online at www.limasymphony.com or by calling the symphony office at 419-222-5701.

The Lima Symphony Orchestra is dedicated to preserving musical excellence as a living part of our community. Serving communities throughout West Central Ohio, the Lima Symphony annually presents five subscription concerts, a family concert, Mozart by Candlelight concerts and an annual New Year’s Eve Pops concert.

Come Hear Pastor Steve Howell St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford and also Service on Christmas Eve

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, December 26, 2021. During this most Holy of seasons, Retired Pastor Steve Howell will continue with the book of John 14:1-7 and Matthew 2:1-12. His sermon is entitled “Jesus – The Way, Truth and Life”.

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

There will be a Congregational meeting after the service to vote for new Consistory Officers.

St. Paul’s Country Church will hold a very special Childrens’ Play on Christmas Eve, Friday, December 24, 2021 at 7 PM. It is entitled Manger Tales – a Christmas point of View from the animals. Candlelight Christmas hymns will be sung. Join us at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, Ohio.

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

Visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for information as well, run by Karen Ousley.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – please consider joining us to see for yourself how we worship our Lord Jesus Christ.

Snow –do not plow onto roadways

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

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

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

According to Sheriff Jeff Grey of the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, placing injurious materials or obstructing the roadway is a criminal offense.

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

 
December 9-16, 2021

 

Join the members of the Belle Church in Rockford for a Christmas Concert with Blind Date providing the music and Shanon Wagner singing at 3 PM on Sunday, December 19, 2021. Santa Claus and refreshments.

Pastor Doug Meyer Returns to St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, December 19, 2021. During this most Holy of seasons, Retired Pastor Doug Meyer will continue with the Advent story. He will have a Children’s time before Children’s Church.

Doug has been in the ministry for 50 years and is retired from St. John’s Lutheran Church in Celina. He delivers a powerful message from the Bible.

There will be a Congregational meeting after the service.

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

Visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for information as well, run by Karen Ousley.

We are an INDEPENENT church following the Bible – please consider joining us once or twice, at least, to see for yourself how we worship our Lord Jesus Christ.

St. Paul’s Country Church Candlelight Christmas Eve Service

St. Paul’s Country Church will hold a very special Childrens’ Play on Christmas Eve, Friday December 24, 2021 at 7 PM. It is entitled Manger Tales – a Christmas point of View from the animals. It will be adorable in candlelight. Christmas hymns will be sung. Join us at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, Ohio.

New Release 12/16/2021 by Tom Wales, Celina Chief of Police

On 12/15/2021 the School Resource Office and the Celina City Schools investigated an incident of children playing a gun game using candy canes as “guns”.  It became a bit rambunctious and a teacher put a stop to it.  That was all it was.

This turned into a rumor posted by an irresponsible parent on social media.  The post began “I don’t know, but…”  This resulted in some kids being kept home and numerous calls to the Celina Police Department and the City Schools.

There never was a threat to the schools or students out of this incident.  This was childish horseplay.  We urge people to not run with rumors and make these uniformed and irresponsible posts.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – December 15, 2021
by Paige Keysor

CELINA - As of December 15, 2021, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 5,909 confirmed cases, 1,301 probable cases, 5,585 recovered cases, 10 known hospitalizations, 109 COVID-19 deaths, and 22 probable deaths of COVID-19 among Mercer County residents. In addition, there have been 71 confirmed cases who have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19. Under the use of MCHD’s internal reinfection protocol, there have been 82 reinfections of COVID-19 out of the cumulative total of confirmed cases. Today, there are 152 known active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County.

There have been 134 confirmed and 42 probable cases of COVID-19 among fully vaccinated Mercer County residents. Of those individuals, 23 were hospitalized and have since recovered. Six have passed away.

The transmission rate of COVID-19 in Mercer County continues to be high. A high transmission rate is defined as 100 or more new cases per 100,000 people in a 7-day period or a test positivity rate of 10% or higher. Mercer County has seen 388 cases per 100,000 people in the past seven days and has a test positivity rate of 20.29%. This data can be found here: https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#county-view. 

As the holiday season approaches, MCHD continues to encourage community members to be mindful in taking precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other seasonal viruses. The MCHD advises individuals to maintain good hygiene practices, stay home when sick, and avoid crowded indoor places.

The MCHD continues to offer the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for first, second, third, and booster doses by appointment at the health department. More information on local COVID-19 vaccination opportunities can be found at  https://mchdohio.org/. Please call 419-586-3251, Option 2, to ask questions or schedule an appointment.

Van Wert County General Health District reports COVID Cases

By Britt Menchhofer

On December 16, 2021, the Van Wert County General Health District reports an increase in 116 confirmed cases of COVID-19 since Thursday, December 9, 2021 for a total of 4,552 confirmed cases.  There are 9 known hospitalizations of county residents due to COVID-19. To date, the health department has given 13,626 COVID-19 vaccinations. 

The Van Wert County General Health District will hold a walk-in clinic for COVID-19 vaccine on Thursday, December 23, 2021 at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds EMR Room (behind the fair office) from 12:00 to 4:00 pm.  Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are available for first, second, and booster doses as eligible.  Pfizer vaccine has been approved for ages 5 and up and Moderna for those age 18 and up.  To receive a COVID-19 booster vaccination, a person must have received Pfizer or Moderna vaccine at least 6 months ago or Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least 2 months ago. Please bring your photo id and any insurance info. Those under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian present as well as proof of age such as a shot record or birth certificate.  If looking to receive a booster vaccine, proof of prior COVID-19 vaccination is required.  The health department is not making appointments at this time, as all clinics are walk-in only.

 Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

The Rockford Carnegie Library will be meeting in regular session on Tuesday, December 14 at 4 p.m. in the library basement. The public is always welcome to attend.

 
December 7-8, 2021
 

Come Hear Pastor Steve Howell at St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, December 12, 2021 During this most Holy of seasons, Retired Pastor Steve Howell will continue with two powerful Gospel messages from Luke 2:1-14 and John 13:1-17. His message is Entitled : Jesus – the Footwasher ~ for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.   

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

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

Visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for information as well, run by Karen Ousley.

We are an INDEPENENT church following the Bible – please consider joining us one or twice, at least, to see for yourself how we worship our Lord Jesus Christ.

 
December 1-6, 2021
 

Mercer County dog tags available at the Rockford Village Office during
regular business hours until January 31, 2022.

Our Old Bookcase, sent Dec. 2, 2021, Prohibition, for Dec. 9, 2021

= = = = =

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

Photo Caption:  Drinking alcohol always provided humor for cartoonists!  Prohibition can be identified as intemperance, indulgence, debauchery, drinking bout, intoxication, libations, drunkenness, insobriety, bacchanalia, or boozing.

December 5, 1933, Prohibition ended in the United States of America, with the 21st Amendment, repealing of the 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Prohibition began with the 18th Amendment to the United States Constitution, by declaring the production, transport, and sale of intoxicating liquor illegal,  on January 16, 1920.

Prohibition began without any planning by those against the use of liquor.  A Minnesota Representative tried to introduce legislation which would replace bartenders with bootleggers.  At the time of the “Roaring Twenties,” those who were recommending temperance found their voice.  The bootleggers and their peers had a hay day by way of ignoring their opposition.  During Prohibition, newspapers stated that more than a million gallons of alcohol were prescribed for “medicinal purposes.”

Mercer County had its own prohibition stories. Mescher’s Stoop at Maria Stein advertised Wood Shoe Beer.  In 1903, the Star Brewing Company was organized.  After the 18th Amendment, their name was changed to the Star Beverage Company.  In St. Henry, the restaurant adjacent to the Railroad Depot, advertised “Whiskey Sandwiches.”  While I was writing the book about Mercer County’s Big Old Barns, the farmers told stories about “cookin,” grain on the floor of the barn.  In Liberty Township, a man called me that he had found a hidden room in his house, with an entry from the basement through the floor.  The house was probably built around the 1920’s, during Prohibition times.  The hidden room provided a space for storing the liquor bottles.

The October 3, 1900 “Mercer County Bote reported that 16 counties in Ohio went dry as a result of the elections under the Rose Law, and that 287 saloons were put out of business.  Newspapers reported frequent arrests for bootlegging and hundreds of quarts of “booze” were said to be sold in Celina each week.

Carrie Nation was the most famous female Prohibitionist.  She broke up saloons with her hatchet.  Over 300 women from 16 states established the National Woman’s Christian Temperance Union on November 18, 1874.  The W.C.T.U. existed here in Mercer County.  In spite of Prohibition’s ending, some Townships continued to be “dry.”  Carrie Nation passed away in 1911, and never saw the repeal of Prohibition in 1933. 

On December 29, 2005 “Our Old Bookcase,” I wrote more details about local bootlegging during Prohibition.   The stories which have been told to me, have always given me a smile.  Everyone who tells  about Brewing Bathtub Gin, Cookin’ Corn Liquor, Running Booze, Dry Dicks, and Hooch Hounds never fail to make me laugh.  If I were to write a book about Prohibition in Mercer County, I would want to identify the story tellers.   That is not going to happen!

Mercer County Historical Society President Joyce Alig may be contacted at 3054 Burk-St. Henry Road, Saint Henry, Ohio 45883.  histalig@bright.net  or 419-852-0092 or 419-763-5682. 

Van Wert Giving Tuesday Big Success

#GivingTuesday, a global day of giving, was celebrated recently across the globe and throughout the local community. The Van Wert County Foundation commemorated the day by matching donations made to endowed community organization funds. The funds were established by community non-profit organizations so they may operate in perpetuity. 

The Van Wert County Foundation celebrated giving by matching donations (up to $10,000 per fund) made to VWCF Charitable Organization Endowment Funds on #GivingTuesday. Individuals and businesses donated to one or multiple VWCF Charitable Organization Endowment Funds, essentially doubling the gift with the match. Those who gave to The Van Wert County Foundation’s #GivingTuesday initiative donated online and brought donations to the office.

The initiative was a success with a total preliminary endowed amount of $186,675.92  including the  VWCF match.

Plans for #GivingTuesday 2022 (November 29, 2022) are already in the works.

 
November 16-30, 2021
 

Stateline Writer’s Club to meet
The Stateline Writers Club will meet Saturday, Nov. 20 at the Mercer County District Library in Celina at 10 a.m. The writing topic is" "A Favorite Childhood Memory."

Angela Karen, computer technician for St. Marys Community Library, will be the guest speaker.

Come Hear Pastor Doug Meyer at St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford
St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Doug Meyer back to the pulpit on Sunday, November 21, 2021.

His message, entitled “Who Puts Us Together Again?” is based on the Gospel Lesson John 18:33-37 ~ for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

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

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

Please come and join us at 10 AM.

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

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

 

Chatt Community Thanksgiving Service Planned

St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford, at the corner of Oregon and Wabash Roads, west of Rockford, are hosting the Chatt Community Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, November 21, 2021 at 7 PM. Area Lutheran Pastor Adam Poe will be in the pulpit. A fellowship time of homemade cookies, coffee and water will follow. Everyone is invited!

VWHS THEATRE PERFORMS FALL PLAY

Van Wert High School Theatre Department invites the community to our fall play, Murder at Rundown Abbey by Craig Sodaro, that will be performed at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, November 16 and Thursday, November 18 at 7:30pm. Students are looking forward to sharing this two act family friendly mystery-comedy set in the 1920s. Sam Splayed, an American private eye in London, is seeking a new case. He quickly finds himself at the Crumbledown ancestral home ready to solve a mysterious murder. Tensions are high and family members start to complicate matters. Will Sam solve the crime? Join us this Tuesday and Thursday to see who committed the crime and if Detective Splayed solved the case. Your support and ticket purchase will allow us to continue high quality productions! It’s our first live show back on the stage since November 2019. Murder at Rundown Abbey is produced with special arrangement by Pioneer Drama Service, Inc. in Englewood, Colorado. Tickets ($6) will be available at the door.

 
November 11-15, 2021
 

HAPPY VETERAN'S DAY

Please join the Rockford Chamber of Commerce in congratulating Robert Reed Shaffer as the 2021 Rockford Citizen of the Year!

(Reed is shown above on the right in his American Legion Uniform)

The Rockford Chamber Citizen of the year is given to a person who shows a dedicated interest in the community through
participation and leadership. This person gives unselfishly of his or her time as a volunteer to improve the quality of life in
Rockford. Without a doubt Reed Shaffer is a fine example for the citizens of Rockford.

Robert Reed Shaffer is a 1966 Parkway High School graduate.
He has been married to Nancy Feasel Shaffer since November 1971.
That is an impressive Fifty years!
He is a devoted family man and loving grandfather.

He is a retired Celina Reynolds & Reynolds employee of 38 ½ years.
Reed served in the U. S. Army Reserves 1970 - 1976, his rank was Specialist 5.
He participates in flag presentations every fall at PHS Football games and in Veteran’s Day services at the local nursing
home.
Reed was instrumental in the planning and organizing of the beautiful Rockford Veteran Memorial at Hedges Park & the
Dedication Service of the Rockford Veteran Memorial with the impressive United States Air Force jet flyover.
He arranged for our older veterans to ride a wagon in the 2021 Memorial Day Parade.
Reed you are a husband, father, grandfather, and solid community member.

Congratulations, Reed, and thank you for your contributions and leadership to our community and village. The Veteran’s
Memorial will be something that all Rockford residence will take pride in for years to come.

Mercer County Civic Foundation Honors Grant Recipients
The Mercer County Civic Foundation hosted a breakfast earlier this month for its 2021 grant recipients. Among its beneficiaries were Program Coordinators for Our Home Family Resource Center‘s Direct Services Program, RAFT Supervised Visitation Program, and Family Crisis Network Program. The Civic Foundation makes grants annually to local non-profit organizations, with the mission of enhancing the quality of life for the people of Mercer County.  

“We sincerely appreciate the Foundation’s investment into this county through our programs” stated Our Home’s marketing/development coordinator Deb Simon-Heinfeld. “These grants provide important support for three programs that, together, impact the lives of thousands of Mercer County residents, helping them to survive domestic violence and sexual assault, rebuild parent-child relationships, and overcome financial emergencies and food insecurity” she explained.

Our Home’s Family Crisis Network provides unique, essential services for community members affected by domestic violence and sexual assault. Through advocacy, education, and counseling victims develop the strength and courage they need to believe that they have the right to be safe and to see that there is a way out of their violent situation. These victims are transformed into independent, self-sufficient survivors ready to stand up for themselves and their children. 

The RAFT Visitation Center at Our Home is the only non-governmental program of its kind in Mercer and its adjacent counties. Issues such as divorce, separation, paternity rights, addiction, and domestic violence make supervised visitation essential for both the safety of the children and their healthy development.

Children benefit from the safe, homelike atmosphere of the RAFT Center where they can feel comfortable and secure while meeting with their parent(s). Rebuilding the bond between parent and child is crucial in healthy child development and can affect school performance, self-esteem, and relationships across their lives.

And, Our Home’s Direct Services & Referral Program serves as the central intake point for local emergency assistance. Direct Services staff are responsible for assessing needs, logging and tracking services, and then collaborating with local churches and agencies (public & private) to provide help to the individual or family.

Direct Services’ approach to responding to those in need benefits the people we serve by streamlining the request for assistance process and increasing accessibility to resources they need to overcome financial shortfalls. It also benefits the churches and agencies Our Home works with by eliminating duplication and reducing fraud; and, benefits community members and foundations by maximizing the impact of their benevolence.

Our Home is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located at 117 W. Fayette Street in Celina. For more information, visit www.ourhomefrc.com or call 419-586-4663. Learn more about Mercer County Civic Foundation at: http://mercercountycivicfdn.org/about/

Christmas at Fountain Park
Opening Night Announced:  2021 Christmas at Fountain Park

(November 9, 2021 - Van Wert, OH) The Van Wert Service Club, Optimist Club of Van Wert, Main Street Van Wert and the Van Wert Parks Department are bringing the holiday spirit again this year, with Christmas at Fountain Park opening ceremonies to be held November 24, 2021 at 6:00 PM. Opening night activities include: The Mayor of Van Wert will light the park, Santa will be onsite to see if you have been naughty or nice. We will have characters around for photo opportunities. The Girl Scouts will provide hot chocolate/cookies, and our local YMCA is providing coffee/donuts. Van Wert High School Select Choir will be onsite singing Christmas songs, and Ice Creations will do a live demo of their ice sculpting.

After opening night, patrons can anticipate the seasonal display November 25-January 1, from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm nightly, weather permitting. The Girl Scouts will be there every Friday and Saturday through Dec 17 with hot chocolate/cookies from opening until 9:00pm. Candy canes will be available all season, thanks to a large donation from Spangler Candy in Bryan, OH.

The Van Wert Service Club, Optimist Club of Van Wert, Main Street Van Wert and The Van Wert Parks Department would like to thank the following sponsors and volunteers for their support.

Civil War Roundtable
The November Civil War Roundtable meeting is Thursday, November 18. Our speaker will be Professor Brian Dirck, who is a Lincoln expert. He will discuss plans for his new book on the 16th President, and will likely touch upon his time teaching about Lincoln in Japan while on a Fulbright Scholarship.

Family Program at Rockford Library

Join us at The Rockford Carnegie Library for a Family Program on Tuesday, November 16 from 6:30-7:30. We’ll be making a craft, reading a story, playing games and having a snack.

Monday, December 6 is Book Club at 2:00 OR 6:00 pm. This month’s discussion will be over two books. You are welcome to read both or just one. The books are Christmas Cupcake Murder by Joanne Fluke and Skipping Christmas by John Grisham. Stop by the library to pick up a copy.

Genealogical Society to meet
The November meeting of the Mercer County Chapter of the Genealogical Society will be held Sunday, November 14th at 2pm.

Our presenter for the meeting is Donna Vanover.  She will be presenting "A Pressing History" and share her interest in irons. As President of the Pressing Irons and Trivet Collectors of America she has traveled globally to better understand the history of these interesting, if somewhat, ordinary household objects. She will be appearing in period costume.

Please mark your calendars now for this session.

Meeting location is the Richardson-Bretz Bldg. at 117 South Fulton Street, Celina, Ohio and starts at 2PM.

We look forward to seeing you there!

 
November 10, 2021
 

Parkway Schools are upgraded to a
3 hour delay due to fog

Parkway Schools are on a
2 hour delay due to fog
for Wednesday, November 10, 2021

Your business could sponsor this weather delay.

Local Wreaths Across America

If you would like to purchase a wreath for a veteran's grave, please order before November 27. The wreaths will be available for pick up at Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert, on December 18, after the noon ceremony.

For more information, contact Mickey McConahay at 419.605.8889 or email mcconahay@watchtv.net.

 
November 8-9, 2021
 

Veterans’ Service coming to St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH is planning the annual Veterans’ Service at 10 AM on Sunday, November 14, 2021 for our veterans. Retired Pastor Steve Howell will follow with delivery of the message entitled A Very Costly Gift based on John 12:1-8 ~ for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.   

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

A Congregational Meeting is planned for November 14, 2021 where a vote will be taken by the members.

St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford will host the Chatt Community Thanksgiving Service on Sunday evening, November 21, 2021 at 7 PM. Pastor Adam Poe will be in the pulpit. A social time will follow with homemade cookies, coffee, hot chocolate, tea and water. Everyone is invited.

The Board of Christian Education is planning a full day of supervised children’s activities and lunch on Saturday, November 27, 2021. Planned from 10 AM -3 PM community parents and grandparents should contact Jill Thomas at 419-942-1540 or Michelle Thomas 419-953-1749 to register children. Parents may stay with their child or plan their own outing.

Please call Becky Jo Shope 419-363-2227 for any questions regarding the worship services and especially about the Veterans’ Service.

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

 
November 5-7, 2021
 

Van Wert County General Health District Report

By Britt Menchhofer

On November 4, 2021, the Van Wert County General Health District reports 2 additional COVID-19 deaths of residents of Van Wert County, bringing the total number of COVID-19 deaths to 76.  The Van Wert County General Health District would like to express our deepest sympathies for the family and friends of the deceased.  The age ranges of the deceased are 70-79 years and 100-109 years.  Today, the health department reports an increase in 119 confirmed cases of COVID-19 since Thursday, October 28, 2021 for a total of 3,761 confirmed cases.  There are 8 known hospitalizations of county residents due to COVID-19. To date, the health department has given 12,502 COVID-19 vaccinations. 

The week of November 8, 2021, both the Flu Vaccination Clinic and the COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic will be moved to Wednesday, November 10, 2021.  Flu vaccinations will be available from 8:30 to 11:00 am and COVID-19 vaccinations will be available from 12:00 to 4:00 pm.  Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are available for first, second, and booster doses as eligible.  Pfizer vaccine has been approved for ages 5 and up and Moderna for those age 18 and up.  To receive a COVID-19 booster vaccination, a person must have received Pfizer or Moderna vaccine at least 6 months ago or Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least 2 months ago. Please bring your photo id and any insurance info. Those under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian present as well as proof of age such as a shot record or birth certificate.  If looking to receive a booster vaccine, proof of prior COVID-19 vaccination is required.  The health department is not making appointments at this time, as all clinics are walk-in only.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – November 4, 2021 Pediatric COVID-19 Vaccine

By Paige Keysor                             

CELINA - On Tuesday, November 2, 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended the use of the Pfizer-BioNTech pediatric vaccine for vaccination against COVID-19 for children ages 5 to 11 years. The Pfizer-BioNTech pediatric COVID-19 vaccine is administered as a two-dose primary series, three weeks apart, but is a lower dose (10 micrograms) than that used for individuals 12 years of age and older (30 micrograms). 

The MCHD has received the Pfizer-BioNTech pediatric vaccine and will begin administering the vaccine tomorrow, Friday, November 5, 2021. For more information regarding the pediatric COVID-19 vaccine or to schedule an appointment, please call 419-586-3251, Option 2.

Parents or guardians should bring their child’s insurance card(s) and a completed COVID-19 registration form to their appointment. The registration form is available to pick up at the MCHD office or on the MCHD website, www.mchdohio.org.

Local Businesses and Employees Participate in Seller Server Training

On Monday, October 18, 2021, The Mercer County Prevention Coalition hosted two Seller-Server Trainings held for alcohol permit holders and servers. The previous Seller-Server Training was held in April 2019.

Agent Michael Coopman from the Ohio Investigative Unit presented information on the A.S.K. program (Alcohol Server Knowledge). The Ohio state course is designed for bartenders, sellers, and servers and was filled with knowledge and techniques to become a responsible server/seller of alcohol and liquor regulations.  Covered were topics such as:  how to protect yourself and your establishment from liability; how to check IDs; how to identify a fake ID; levels of intoxication; recognizing the signs of intoxication; recognizing minors; and interventions.  Agent Coopman also covered what the Ohio penalties and fines are for a business or server who is found in non-compliance. 

There were 26 bartenders, servers and sellers in attendance from the following 14 businesses in Mercer County.  Five participants were from the Celina Moose and 4 from the Celina American Legion Post 210.  Each of the following businesses had 2 in attendance: Duckfoots, McSober’s, It’s It, Wagon Wheel Nite Club, Celina Spirits, Celina Knights of Columbus, Wendeline 2.0, and Celina Fraternal Order of Eagles. There was one participant representing Plaza Bowling Lanes and Romer’s Catering.

The Server-Seller Training is a project of the Mercer County Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) as a result of the 2016 Community Health Assessment, which indicated alcohol/substance abuse as the number one health issue in Mercer County.  Alcohol/substance abuse prevention is also a priority again as a result of our 2019 Community Health Assessment and the Community Health Improvement Plan which is currently being made.

Thank you to all who participated and recognized the importance of keeping our community safe.  Look for future training provided by the Ohio Investigative Unit and the Mercer County Prevention Coalition.  Agent Michael Coopman is available to provide this free training for local businesses who sell alcohol. He can be contacted at 513-942-0610. The A.S.K. program can help businesses: reduce exposure to alcohol liability lawsuits, ensure safety for you, your customer and your community; reduce penalties for alcohol violations; help lower your business’s insurance premiums; improve customer service and professionalism and protect yourself from Ohio liquor law violations!

Thanks to the Mercer County Prevention Coalition for donating two $25 door prize gift certificates at each session.  Thank you  Agent Coopman for teaching this excellent training.

For those interested in joining or finding out more about ways to reduce alcohol and other drug use/abuse in our community, please consider joining the Mercer County Prevention Coalition.  For more information contact mercercountyprevention@gmail.com.

Grief Toolkits Distributed to Area Children

EverHeart Hospice has distributed grief toolkits to area children coping with the loss of someone special in their lives. 

Typically, EverHeart Hospice hosts their annual Camp Encourage for children aged 6-15 experiencing loss. The camp provides a supportive and welcoming environment for children to sort through their feelings and lets them know they are not alone in these thoughts. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the in-person camp was canceled for 2021, but the organization still wanted to provide support for the campers. The toolkits were designed to meet this need in a format that could be personally delivered to each child at home. 

“We knew that just because the camp was canceled this year, that doesn’t mean their grief was canceled,” said Sarah DePoy, Bereavement Coordinator at EverHeart Hospice. "The past year has been an emotional roller coaster for everyone, and we want these children to know they are still supported.”

The way children experience and express their grief varies from child to child. The goal of the box is to provide coping skills to help children self-regulate their emotions. Each toolkit contains a variety of sensory objects for children to explore as an outlet for the emotions they may be experiencing. 

Instructions for how each item can aid in this process were provided in the boxes. Examples of items provided include journals, tangrams, coloring books, and stress balls, among several others. In total, about 30 toolkits, packaged in a vintage-style lunch tin, were distributed. 

Just like Camp Encourage, the Grief toolkits were provided to children free of charge thanks to the generosity of community donations and grants.

The response to the toolkits from caretakers was overwhelmingly positive, and several children have expressed interest in volunteering for Camp Encourage in the future. 

"To have such young children already realizing that they can make a positive impact on future generations of campers because of a program we were able to provide to them is humbling,” shared DePoy.

EverHeart Hospice is hopeful that Camp Encourage will resume in person for 2022.

To learn more about Camp Encourage or the Bereavement Support available from EverHeart Hospice, call 1-800-417-7535 or visit their website at everhearthospice.org.

Madagascar The Musical Coming to Van Wert

(Van Wert, OH) - Jeffery-Mohr Family Dentistry presents the stage spectacular, Madagascar The Musical at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center on Friday, April 29, 2022 at 7:30 PM. Tickets are now on sale to Van Wert Live Members. On sale to the public begins on Monday, November 22, 2021.

All of your favorite crack-a-lackin’ friends from Madagascar escape the zoo and onto the stage in Madagascar Live, a wild musical spectacular based on the blockbuster DreamWorks film. Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hip Hippo and of course, those hilarious, plotting penguins as they escape from their home at New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. This celebration of friendship is brought vividly to life by imaginative sets and costumes, action-packed adventure, and spectacular new songs that will inspire you to move it, move it in the aisles.

Annual sponsors making live entertainment happen in Van Wert are Central Insurance, First Federal Bank of Van Wert, and Statewide Ford-Lincoln. 

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

The Van Wert Area Performing Arts Foundation presenting VWLive events is powered by the Van Wert County Foundation. The Box Office is located within the Niswonger Performing Arts Center, 10700 SR 118 S, Van Wert.

Van Wert Health Eases Visitor Restrictions
Beginning Wednesday, November 3, 2021, Van Wert Health – Hospital will ease some of its restrictions for visiting patients in the hospital. In all patient care areas, visiting hours are from 8 AM – 8 PM daily.

Expanding visitation has substantial benefits to our patients and their loved ones. We look at visitors as an added layer of our patient support team” shared Elizabeth Neuschwanger, Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer.  “The virus is better understood now than when it first appeared.  With proper protocols in place, safe visitation is possible.”

The visitation guidelines are available to view online at: vanwerthealth.org/visit.  A summary of the updates includes:

·       Two visitors per day, 12 years or older, for inpatient adults and pediatrics who do not have COVID-19.

·       One adult visitor per day for inpatient adults with COVID-19 and two adult visitors per day for inpatient pediatrics with COVID-19.

·       Labor and delivery patients may have two visitors at a time.  Siblings are welcome to visit and will be counted as one of the permitted visitors.

As a reminder, the hospital screens each visitor at the entrance to the building and everyone is required to wear a mask, regardless of vaccination status. If a visitor does not have a mask, Van Wert Health will provide one.

Vaccinations are the most effective way to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Check with your medical provider, pharmacy, or local health department to ask questions or to arrange for your vaccine.

 
November 3-4, 2021
 

St. Marys, Ohio Classes meet on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9-12 noon at St. Paul's Church. The next orientation is Monday, November 8, 2021.

Interested people should cal 419-998-2956 to register or just come in on the day of the orientation.

Parkway School Board Agenda for a Regular Meeting on November 8, 2021 at 6:30 pm
by Sally Cox

Parkway November 2021 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Angel Tree Planned
Preparations for Mercer County Angel Tree are in full swing, even though Christmas is a few months away.

Angel Tree, established in 2005, brings together the efforts of area agencies, organizations, churches and businesses to provide Christmas gifts for local families. This heart-warming, inspiring event provides Christmas joy to children all across the county and stands as a testament to the power of partnership and collaboration in our region.

Committee members estimate that Angel Tree will provide Christmas gifts for over 800 children this year. The goal is for every child to receive two toys and one outfit and for each item to be selected specifically for that child by the child’s parent/guardian at Angel Tree Shopping Days on December 9th and 10th.

All income-eligible parents in Mercer County are asked to complete an application for Angel Tree online at www.ourhomefrc.com. Once the application is successfully submitted, parents/guardians will receive an email invitation to Angel Tree.

“We began accepting applications for gifts several weeks ago,” Deb Simon-Heinfeld, Our Home’s Marketing/Development Coordinator explained. “Now, we are looking for ‘Christmas Angels’ to make these children’s dreams come true!”

According to Simon-Heinfeld there are several ways local folks can “earn their Angel wings”: purchasing gifts, volunteering, or providing financial support.

Purchasing gifts: Groups take Angel Tree gift tags and display them on a tree so the group’s members, staff, or customers can purchase and donate gifts. They collect the gifts and deliver them to the program by December 6th. To request gift tags, contact Betty Leininger at 419-586-1352.

Volunteering: Hundreds of volunteers are needed to help setup, sort gifts, and “shop” with parents. Help will be needed each day, December 7th through December 10th, for various roles. Note: Masks are required for volunteers and program participants. To volunteer, contact Diane Martens at 419-586-3645.

Providing Financial Support: Monetary gifts help the committee purchase wrapping paper, provide families food/toiletry bags, buy items for unfilled gift tags, and cover program expenses. Mail or drop off donations to Our Home at 117 West Fayette St., Celina, OH 45822. Alternately, donations can be made online at ourhomefrc.com by clicking the blue donate button on the homepage. Please make checks payable to “Our Home”.

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

Traffic Fatality in Hopewell Township
Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports that deputies are investigating a fatal traffic crash.  Grey advised that his office received a 911 call at 12:08 PM yesterday, (11-1-2021) reporting a crash at the intersection of Hoenie Road and Oregon Road in Hopewell Township.

The investigation found that 32 year old Richard Daniel Medina of 613 S Branson Street Marion, Indiana was operating 1997 Ford Aspire Westbound on Oregon Road.  49 year old Donald Joseph Bird of 705 Eden Ave Coldwater, Ohio was operating a 2013 Dodge Journey Southbound on Hoenie Road.  Medina failed to yield at the intersection.  The two vehicles collided and traveled off of the roadway and into a field. 

Both subjects were taken to Mercer Health by members of the Celina EMS.  Medina was later airlifted to Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton, Ohio. Later that evening Medina died from his injuries.

Assisting at the scene were members of the Celina Fire Department and EMS.

The Sheriff’s Office Traffic Crash Reconstruction Team was called to the scene to assist in the investigation.   At the time of this release this case remains under investigation.

Sheriff Jeff Grey

Fatal Crash in Celina
This morning at 8:46AM, 11-01-2021, the Celina Police Department responded to a fatal traffic crash which occurred on SR29 at Havemann Rd.  Through the preliminary investigation it was determined that 25 year old Ryan M. Lageman of New Bremen was driving a red 1991 Ford Ranger pickup truck southbound on Havemann Rd. as he entered the intersection of SR29 with a green traffic signal.  At the same time, 56 year old Kewal Pooni of Manitoba, Canada, was driving a 2016 Peterbilt semi-truck with trailer westbound on SR29 and also entered the intersection.  Pooni entered the intersection against a red traffic light.

Ryan Lageman had severe injuries and was pronounced dead a short time later at Jt. Township District Memorial Hospital in St. Marys.  Kewal Pooni was not injured.  Both vehicles were heavily damaged.  Neither alcohol nor drugs are suspected.  There were no other occupants in either vehicle.  Both drivers were wearing seatbelts at the time of crash. The crash remains under investigation.

Tom Wale
Celina Chief of Police

 
November 1-2, 2021
 

Remember!
November 7, 2021 - Daylight Saving Time Ends

Local daylight savings time changes:

Sunday, November 7, 2021, 2:00:00 am clocks are turned backward 1 hour to
Sunday, November 7, 2021, 1:00:00 am local standard time instead.

Sunrise and sunset will be about 1 hour earlier on Nov 7, 2021 than the day before. There will be more light in the morning.

Also called Fall Back and Winter Time.

Remembrance Memorial Service coming to St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH is planning the annual Remembrance Memorial Service at 10 AM on Sunday, November 7, 2021 for the families and friends of the members who have passed on this year. A catered meal will follow.

Retired Pastor Doug Meyer will be delivering the message entitled The Best is Yet to Come based on John 11:32-44 ~ for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.  He will also be sharing a children’s Message before children’s church. Children are invited to join this hour of Bible lessons, songs, and activities, taught by Jill Thomas and Michelle Thomas.

Doug has been in the ministry for 50 years and is retired from St. John’s Purple Door Lutheran Church in Celina. He delivers God’s living word from the Bible.

A Congregational Meeting is planned for November 14, 2021 where a vote will be taken by the members.

Also, the Board of Christian Education is planning a full day of supervised children’s activities and lunch on Saturday, November 27, 2021. Planned from 10 AM -3 PM community parents and grandparents should contact Jill Thomas at 419-942-1540 or Michelle Thomas 419-953-1749 to register children. Parents may stay with their child or plan their own outing.

Please call Becky Jo Shope 419-363-2227 for any questions regarding the worship services and especially about the Remembrance Memorial Service.

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

 
October 25-31, 2021
 

Chamber Fall Fest -  Vintage baseball game scheduled for

tomorrow - Saturday - October 30^th, 2021  canceled due to the weather

and field conditions --- maybe next summer!

The Ohio Village Muffins are coming to Rockford, Ohio to play a game of vintage baseball against some local athletes on Saturday, October 30th at 2:00pm. It will be a day of fun for all as 1860's base ball is on display at Shanes Park. Bring family and friends to welcome the Muffins as they make their first appearance in Rockford. Interestingly, Shanesville became Shanes Crossing during this time period!

Pastor Steve Howell Returns to St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Steve Howell back to the pulpit at 10 AM on Sunday, October 31, 2021. He is working his way through the Gospel of John. The message is entitled “Jesus, the Resurrection” and comes from  John 11:17-27 and 38-44 ~ for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

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

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

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

Donation to C.A.L.L.

The Women’s Fellowship of St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH held their annual church AutumnFest meal and auction on October 10, 2021 at the church. It was a delicious homemade fare followed by an entertaining auction with Tom Robbins’ crew doing the calling. Proceeds from the event went to local charities. Shown above, Sheila Baltzell-Linn (left), secretary of the Women’s Fellowship presented Homer Burnett, director of C.A.L.L.  (right) with a generous donation to benefit the Parkway and Celina Back Pack Programs as well as the Food Pantry.

Donation to Kingdom Harvest Ministries

The Women’s Fellowship of St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH held their annual church AutumnFest meal and auction on October 10, 2021 at the church. It was a delicious homemade fare followed by an entertaining auction with Tom Robbins’ crew doing the calling. Shown above, and pegged as one of the recipients of the proceeds, Kingdom Harvest Ministries’ director and teacher Tom Sanford, (right) accepted the generous check for KHM projects from president of the Women’s Fellowship, Carol Gibbons (left). He also gave her a short tour of the Celina “school”. KHM teaches Bible classes at off-site locations, during the school day, to interested students at Celina and Parkway Schools. They are the first program to also offer college credit for the classes.

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

Photo Caption:  Post Card:  The Fox & Hess Co., Home of Water Lily Flour and Grain, Feed, Coal, & Elevator.  Celina Directory and Mercer Co. Gazetteer, 1909.  This Elevator was located in Coldwater, on East Main St., on the north side of the street, just east of the former Cincinnati Northern Railroad Depot.  See the 1900 Mercer County Plat Map in the 1900 Atlas listed below.

Sunday, November 14, 2021 the Open House at the Mercer County Historical Museum, 130 East Market, Celina, will feature the Historic Post Card Exhibit by Dale Poeppelman, and Unique Signatures of Historic Individuals by David Gray.  Post Cards of Grand Lake will also be displayed. 

That old saying, “A picture is worth a thousand words,” clarifies how important these old post cards are, in the preservation of local history.  Post Cards are one of the most important displays of Mercer County scenes.  Often, the main scene is important, but the background of the main scene is often a “one-of-a-kind” photograph of buildings which are no longer in existence.  Where would this column, “Our Old Bookcase” be, without the old post card photographs?  Look at the local history books published by the Mercer County Historical Society, and you will see the importance of the old post card photographs in these books.

Last week, a couple from Sandusky, Ohio visited the Mercer County Historical Museum.  They had flown into Lakefield Airport and asked about historic sites.  Steve Shinabery, Lakefield Airport Manager, gave several suggestions and loaned them a “Courtesy Car.”  At the Mercer County Historical Museum, they were very interested in our book, ”Oil & Gas Boom, Mercer County and Midwestern Ohio.”  Thank  you to Steve Shinabery for sharing our local history with Ohio’s Tourists.

At this Open House on Sunday, October 24th, 1:00 – 4:00, the books, “Oil & Gas Boom,” $45.00, and “New Idea Company’s Uni-System” and “New Idea Hay Tools,” $25.00 each, will be available for your purchase.

Our Museum Guests, that Sunday afternoon, will receive a free copy of the book, “Mercer County Centennial Buildings,” (from 1888 & 1900 “Mercer County Atlases.”   The post card photograph above of the Coldwater Elevator, has its site listed on the 1900 Map of Coldwater.

Mercer County Historical Society President Joyce Alig may be contacted at 3054 Burk-St. Henry Road, Saint Henry, Ohio 45883.  histalig@bright.net  or 419-852-0092 or 419-763-5682.

Civic Theatre presents global event on November 13

Van Wert Civic Theatre announces tickets sales are open for All Together Now!, a global event celebrating local theatre and its triumphant return.   Music Theatre International is empowering theatres around the world to locally produce and perform this exclusive musical revue featuring songs from MTI’s beloved shows during one weekend in November. 

VWCT will present this show on Saturday, November 13 at 8 p.m. as a fundraising event. Tickets are $25 and on sale NOW.  Because MTI is providing all materials free of charge to all groups, every dollar of the ticket price will go to VWCT. This show will never be available again, so don’t miss your one-night chance to be a part of this historic performance.  The show will run approximately 80 minutes and is appropriate for all ages.  

Songs from the shows Beauty and the Beast, Fiddler on the Roof, Ragtime, Jekyll & Hyde, Sister Act, Annie, Song for a New World, Little Shop of Horrors, Oliver!, Into the Woods, Mamma Mia!, My Fair Lady, Mary Poppins, Godspell, and Rent will be performed that night.
The night features songs by Lynn Ahrens, Howard Ashman, Lionel Bart, Jerry Bock, Leslie Bricusse, Jason Robert Brown, Martin Charnin, Stephen Flaherty, Sheldon Harnick, Jonathan Larson, Alan Menken, Tim Rice, Stephen Schwartz, Richard M. Sherman, Robert B. Sherman, Stephen Sondheim, Charles Strouse, and Frank Wildhorn. 

Performers include Amy Boley, Warren Bowery, Sheila Chilcote-Collins, Mary Ann Falk, Dee Fisher, Doug Grooms, Chad Kraner, Kristin Lee, Emily Penton, Roger Rex, Stacy Rife, Megan Ryan, Laura Warnement, and Jerry Zimmerman.

The VWCT Board of Directors will host a reception before and after the show. Please join us.  Tickets may be purchased by calling 419-238-9689. Leave a message and our volunteer will call you back. You can also purchase online at vwct.org. 

All Together Now! is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

Van Wert County General Health District Updates COVID Info

On October 21, 2021, the Van Wert County General Health District reports 3 additional COVID-19 deaths of residents of Van Wert County, bringing the total number of COVID-19 deaths to 73.  The Van Wert County General Health District would like to express our deepest sympathies for the family and friends of the deceased.  The age ranges of the deceased are: 1- 80-89 years, 1- 50-59 years, and 1- 20-29 years.   There have also been 10 confirmed cases who have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19.  Today, the health department reports an increase in 102 confirmed cases of COVID-19 since Thursday, October 14, 2021 for a total of 3,537 confirmed cases. We have 7 known hospitalizations of county residents due to COVID-19. To date, the health department has given 12,053 COVID-19 vaccinations. 

Booster vaccine for those who received Pfizer at least 6 months ago continues to be available every Thursday from 12:00 – 4:00 pm.  This is only available for those who received Pfizer vaccine.  Moderna and Johnson and Johnson vaccines are not approved for booster shots at this time.  The health department continues to offer Pfizer and Moderna vaccine for first and second doses every Thursday from 2-4 pm at the Van Wert County Health Department.  Pfizer vaccine is available for all those age 12 and up and Moderna for those age 18 and up.  Severely immunocompromised individuals may receive a third dose of Pfizer or Moderna.  The health department encourages immunocompromised individuals to consult with their physician to determine whether they are eligible for this third dose.  The patient must meet eligibility criteria and must have completed the Pfizer or Moderna vaccination series at least 28 days ago.  Please bring your photo id and any insurance info. Those under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian present as well as proof of age such as a shot record or birth certificate. The health department is not making appointments at this time, as all clinics are walk-in only.

Western Ohio Civil War Round Table to Meet

October was eventful every year of the Civil War including 1862 when Braxton Bragg invaded Kentucky and fought the Battle of Perryville. The Civil War Round Table's speaker this month, Joe Bellas, President of the Stillwater Roundtable will speak about that battle and his numerous trips to the Kentucky fighting grounds.

Joe's talk takes place this Thursday evening, October 28, 2021 at the Richardson Bretz Building in downtown Celina. The meeting comes to order at 7:15 PM. Joe is a good speaker, and knows this topic well. The community is invited.

 
October 21-24, 2021
 

EverHeart Hospice Celebrates 40th Anniversary

EverHeart  Hospice, formerly State of the Heart Care, is excited to be celebrating 40 years of caring for patients and families in the community.

In 1980, a small group of community members and healthcare professionals met to discuss the idea of starting a hospice program to serve patients facing a life-limiting illness. At the time, there was no such program available for local communities in a rural setting. This idea became a reality in January of 1981, with the official start of Hospice of Darke County, Inc. A total of 27 patients received care during that first year. Forty years later, we have now had the privilege of serving over 16,800 patients during their end-of-life journey.

Mary Sue Rosenberger was the first person employed by Hospice of Darke County, Inc., serving as Chief Executive Officer from 1981-1985. In a previous interview celebrating our 20th Anniversary, Mary shared her thoughts on bringing a hospice program to the area, stating she knew the impact of the need for hospice care in the community was evident “when I visited my first patient. I knew then that this was an essential, meaningful service.” Sadly, Mary has since passed away in 2020, but her legacy as one of the founding members and her passion for hospice care remains today.

Many aspects of the agency have grown and evolved over the years, from expanding office space from only two rooms in the basement of the Brethren Retirement Community in 1981, to currently having three offices located in Greenville and Coldwater, OH; Winchester, Indiana; and the EverHeart Hospice Care Center located on the fourth floor of Wayne HealthCare. Even through this growth, it is safe to say that the agency’s mission, vision, and values have always remained deeply rooted and consistent. We are proud of our focus on our core values: Patient and Family-Centered, Compassion, Excellence, Integrity, and Community-Focused.

Over the years, when reflecting on her involvement with EverHeart Hospice since the very beginning, Joy Marchal, who served as the first Board President, second Chief Executive Officer for twelve years, and former volunteer after her retirement, previously shared, “There were mountains to climb and great challenges, but through it all we were able to make a significant difference for patients and families.”

With the continuous hard work and dedication of our staff, volunteers, Board members, and generous community support, today we are proud to serve a total of 12 counties in west-central Ohio and east-central Indiana, including Darke, Miami, Preble, Shelby, Mercer, Auglaize, Allen, Van Wert, and Paulding counties in Ohio and Jay, Randolph, and Wayne counties in Indiana.

Kristi Strawser, current Chief Executive Officer since 2018, has been a part of the agency for many years serving in various roles prior including RN, Hospice Care Center Manager, and Chief Clinical Officer. “We are so very thankful for those who laid the foundation and advocated 40 years ago to introduce the concept of Hospice and the value of this service to our communities. We are honored to be continuing the mission of the organization. Our mission has been our focus for the past four decades, and we will continue ensuring that mission is our focus for decades to come.”

Join us over the next 40 days as we reflect on the past 40 years, sharing the history and stories behind the roots of our organization. You can follow along on our website, www.HYPERLINK "https://everhearthospice.org/"everhearthospice.org, our Facebook page, and local media outlets.

We are proud to be your local non-profit hospice. When asked what the next 40 years may look like, Kristi shared, “We will continue ensuring our communities have access to exceptional hospice care to ensure those who are at this crucial part of their journey can experience quality of life and comfort. We will honor their life with trusted care.”

 
October 16-20, 2021
 

The Parkway 8th grade volleyball team won the MAC tournament this past Saturday, October 16, 2021 by defeating Marion Local, St Henry, and Coldwater to finish with an overall record of  20-1. They also won the MAC tournament as 7th graders to round out their junior high volleyball careers with a very impressive 37-1 record. Team members include:Front Row: Manager Lindsay Nichols, Haley Perry, Milee Peel, Emmery Temple, Brittyn Bruns, Addison Fisher, Gabryelle Sill, Manager Elayna Moeller. Back Row: Jordyn Schaefer, Taylor Muhlenkamp, Colbie Smith, Bryn Schoenleben, Cora Wenning, Natalie Moeller, Taylor Minnich, Ava Pond, Megan Nichols, Addison Reigle, Coach Lisa Miller. Not pictured are managers Addilynn Kraner and Abigail Sipe. 

Come Hear Pastor Steve Howell at St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Steve Howell back to the pulpit at 10 AM on Sunday, October 24, 2021. His message entitled “My Sheep Hear My Voice” is based on the Gospel Lesson John 10:22-2021~ for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

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

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

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

Bridge Replacement coming to Tama Road
The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Tama Road between SR 118 and Now Road in Hopewell Township for a bridge replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on October 26, 2021 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 4-5 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

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

Rockford Planning Fall Festival Day on October 30

Join us October 30th for a full day of festivities in Rockford. Starting at 10am at the heart of it all - Rockford's Main
Street! Enjoy the vendors market and retail specials at participating businesses from 10am-2pm. Take in the fall decorations, fresh air, and local eats, while socializing with your community.
    
Special Events Include: 10am @ The Rockford Fire Dept: National Anthem - American Legion to present the colors.
FREE Sand and scratch art for the kids. Free will donation Book Sale @ Rockford Carnegie Library from 10am-2pm.
Get your photo with BLU THE VELOCIRAPTOR from 12pm-1pm @ The People's Bank Parking Lot. Sponsored by The People's Bank and Rockford Community Days.
    
At Shanes Park at 2pm watch the much anticipated  game with The Ohio Village Muffins Vintage Base Ball Club vs. area athletes.
    
Pre Trick-or-Treat @ New Horizons Church. They will provide FREE food from 4pm-6pm. Trunk-or-Treat in their parking lot from 5-6:30pm.
    
The Village of Rockford's Trick-or-Treat will take place from 5-6:30pm. Be sure to stop by The Rockford United Methodist Church for candy and the library for a free book. Do you live outside of the village and would enjoy seeing  
the little  trick-or-treaters? Come, help us set up a trick-or-treat line on the sidewalks of Main Street.

Make sure you stop by the Rockford Fire Dept at 7pm for costume judging and delicious fall treats.

 
October 14-15, 2021
 

University Women’s Club of Mercer County Donates Books in Memory

The members of University Women’s Club of Mercer County recently donated three new memorial books to the Mercer County Library collection. Member and former officer Lorraine Knapke passed away this summer and was an avid traveler, having been to all 50 states. Two books: Travel North America and Road Trip USA were presented in her memory. Member Helen James, also passed away this summer. She loved to read, and a fiction mystery, Murder Most Fowl, was selected in her memory. These books have plates in the front memorializing these two UWC members. The books are in circulation and one can inquire at the front desk of the library. Shown above is UWC president Cora McCalla presenting the books to Mercer County Library adult services manager, Connie Gray.

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Pastor Steve Howell to the pulpit on Sunday, October 10, 2021

Pastor Howell’s sermon was entitled, “The Lord’s My Shepherd, I’ll Not Want” continuing in his Gospel study of the first 10 chapters of John, specifically today John 10:1-14. In the passage, Jesus reveals himself in the easiest and most understandable words saying, “I am the good Shepherd. I laid down my life for you.” When Moses spoke to God through the burning bush, God said to tell the Jewish people, I am. “I am” is Yahweh or Johova to the Jews, a name so holy people did not say it out loud. Jesus says, I am a shepherd to you.” That makes all of us his helpless sheep. We need to be shepherded out of the pen by the calling of his voice, just like real sheep follow their shepherd by voice. He desires us to follow him, and gives us a choice. We can ignore his voice and die. He wants us to love him as he loves us. In Psalms 23, one of our favorites, there is movement for following Him. We have to keep up once we decide to follow, listen and obey.

Pastor Howell is a retired minister from Grace Missionary church, serving over 50 years in the ministry of God. 

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ is located at 1538 Oregon Road west of Rockford.

Steve will be back again on October 24, 2021 and October 31, 2021.

Check us out on Facebook which is run by member Karen Ousley.

Trick or Treat and Fall Activities on October 30 in Rockford 

Join Rockford on October 30th for a full day of festivities in Rockford. Starting at 10am at the heart of it all - Rockford's Main
Street! Enjoy the vendors market and retail specials at participating businesses from 10am-2pm. Take in the fall decorations, fresh air, and local eats, while socializing with your community.
  
Special Events Include: 10am @ The Rockford Fire Dept: National Anthem - American Legion to present the colors.
FREE Sand and scratch art for the kids. Free will donation Book Sale @ Rockford Carnegie Library from 10am-2pm.
Get your photo with BLU THE VELOCIRAPTOR from 12pm-1pm @ The People's Bank Parking Lot. Sponsored by The People's Bank and Rockford Community Days.
  
Skip on down to Shanes Park at 2pm to watch the much anticipated  game with The Ohio Village Muffins Vintage Base Ball Club vs. area athletes.
  
 

Pre Trick-or-Treat @ New Horizons Church. They will provide FREE food from 4pm-6pm. Trunk-or-Treat in their parking lot from 5-6:30pm.
  
The Village of Rockford's Trick-or-Treat will take place from 5-6:30pm. Be sure to stop by The Rockford United Methodist
Church for candy and the library for a free book. Do you live outside of the village and would enjoy seeing the little trick- or-treaters? Come, help us set up a trick-or-treat line on the sidewalks of Main Street.

Make sure you stop by the Rockford Fire Dept at 7pm for costume judging and delicious fall treats.
  
Sponsored by: Rockford Ohio Chamber of Commerce and participating businesses.

 
October 12-13, 2021
 

Groundbreaking Ceremony
New Horizons is extending an invitation to the Rockford Chamber members to
join them at their Groundbreaking Ceremony on  Monday Nov 1st @ 6pm.
    
There will be opportunity to take a photos and support this 2.3 million dollar
expansion within the Village of Rockford.

Parkway Music Booster’s Annual Sub Sandwich Sales
The Parkway Music Booster’s annual sub sandwich sales is currently underway.  The subs have been sold for many decades and continue to be a favorite of many.  This year three different subs will be made: “The Original” (bologna, pork loaf, beef stick, American and Swiss cheeses), ham (ham, American and Swiss cheeses), and turkey breast (turkey, American and Swiss cheeses).  Original subs are $4 each with ham and turkey subs being $3 each.

 This year the sub sales is being used as a fundraiser to directly benefit students in the HS band that will be going to Disney for a performance in May of 2022.  Selling dates are now through October 22nd.  The subs will be made at the school on Saturday, Nov. 13th and will be ready for the students to deliver at that time. 

 The sales are a great way to get a delicious sandwich while providing support to our students.  If you have questions regarding the fundraiser, please call Kendra Miller at 419.203.1205

Bicentennial Bingo
“Bicentennial Bingo” is quickly approaching.  The event will be held on Sunday, October 24th at the Rockford Community Building.  Doors will open at 12:00 p.m., with bingo beginning at 1:00 p.m.  Tickets are $20, which includes 20 games of bingo.  Bingo prizes include the brands of Ninja, Keurig, Kitchen Aid, Kate Spade, Vera Bradley, Coach, and much more. All proceeds will be used to support the upcoming Willshire Bicentennial Celebration that will be held throughout 2022. Plan to join in on this afternoon filled with much fun.  Homemade soups, sandwiches, and baked goods will be available.  For further information, please call 419-203-1205. 

Traffic Grants Received

Celina, OH - Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today his office has once again applied for and has received two grants for traffic safety. The Ohio Department of Public Safety has advised our office has received a grant to aide our deputies in reducing traffic related fatalities and serious injury accidents in Mercer County.

The grants allow deputies to spend more time targeting problem areas while on patrol. The grant is broken down into two focus areas. The first for $19,682.02, titled Repeat Offenders for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), will focus on looking for subjects driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol within our county. The second part of the grant, valued at $21,182.02, is State and Community Highway Safety. This part of the grant allows us to have our deputies focus on driving laws and ensure all motorists are safe while on the roads of Mercer County.

The Sheriff’s Office would also like to take this opportunity to remind motorist to always wear your seat belt, and have a designated driver.

Kingdom Harvest Ministries Plans Annual Fund Raiser Banquet
KHM fall fundraiser banquet at New Horizons. It is October 26. 6 PM is start time. We will end around 745 or 8 PM. There will be testimonies from faculty and students alike about this year so far with updates.

Encouraging Patients to Resume Cancer Screenings

Van Wert Health is urging people throughout the region to talk with their healthcare provider to resume regular primary care checkups and recommended cancer screening. This has the potential to lessen the negative impact that the pandemic is having on identifying and treating people with cancer.

Throughout the pandemic, many health care resources were redirected to combat rising COVID-19 cases and to prevent the spread of the virus. Elective medical procedures, including cancer screening, were largely put on hold at the onset of the pandemic. The impact was immediate as screening related procedures dropped drastically in March, April, and May 2020 according to the American Cancer Society. Estimates also project 35% of Americans missed routine cancer screening due to COVID-19 related fears and service disruptions. The American Cancer Society foresees that the pandemic-related reductions in health care access and cancer screening will result in a short-term drop in cancer diagnoses and a later corresponding increase in late-state diagnoses and preventable deaths.

“Regular cancer screening tests can improve and save your life,” said Roxanna Toress, MD, Women’s Health Specialist. “There certainly can be life after a breast cancer diagnosis, but the chance of being cured is going to be much higher when the cancer is caught at an early stage. This is because many breast cancers are highly curable when caught early. The best protection is early detection.”

Screening refers to testing individuals who have no signs or symptoms of disease. It is critical to ensure that patients with signs or symptoms associated with cancer undergo diagnostic evaluation as soon as possible. Breast cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death among women and colorectal cancer is the third most common cause of death among men and women in the United States, yet nearly one in three people for whom screening is recommended were not up-to-date with screening prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

American Cancer Society breast health screening recommendations:

·       Women ages 40 to 44 should have the choice to start annual breast cancer screening with mammograms if they wish to do so.

·       Women age 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year.

·       Women 55 and older should switch to mammograms every two years, or can continue yearly screening.

·       Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and is expected to live 10 more years or longer.

Women should also know how their breasts normally look and feel and report any breast changes to a health care provider right away. Some women – because of their family history, a genetic tendency, or certain other factors – should be screened with MRIs along with mammograms. Talk with a health care provider about your risk for breast cancer and the best screening plan for you.

The Van Wert Health - Women’s Health Team cares for patients in both Van Wert and Paulding.   All of the providers are welcoming new patients, including Jose Crespo, MD; Alberto Delgado, MD; Roxanna Torres; and Shane Gerber, CNP.  For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 419-238-3047 or online at vanwerthealth.org.

Haven of Hope to Celebrate 1-Year in Service with Public Event

(October 11, 2021, Van Wert OH) The board of directors at Haven of Hope are pleased to announce the one-year celebration of Haven of Hope Men’s Homeless Shelter located in Van Wert, OH.

“It is a blessing that we are able to provide these services to those in need. We are excited to be celebrating one year in service and look forward to not only the years to come, but helping those in need,” states Ramos.

The public is invited to attend the event, which will be located at the Haven of Hope facility at 233 N Market Street, Van Wert, OH 45891 on Sunday, October 17th from 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM. Those wishing to make a financial contribution to assist with operational expenses and mission support are encouraged to do so online https://www.paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/3997284 or via check that can be dropped off the day of the event or mailed to Haven of Hope, PO Box 732, Van Wert, OH 45891.

 
October 8-11, 2021
 

Come Hear Carrie Cubberley at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ and Congregational Meeting Announced

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes Carrie Cubberley to the pulpit on Sunday, October 17, 2021.

Her message, entitled “The Upside Down Kingdom” is based on the Gospel Lesson Mark 10:35-45 ~ for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

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

Carrie is the daughter of Pastor Doug and Sheila Meyer and is from Celina where she is an English teacher at Celina High School.

The community is invited to come and join us at 10 AM.

The Consistory at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ has called a congregational meeting of its membership for Sunday, October 17, 2021. Voting will take place after the morning service and members are asked to attend at 10 AM.

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

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

Pastor Larry May Leads Service and Communion at St. Paul's in Rockford

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Reverend Larry May to the pulpit on Sunday, October 3, 2021. He also led the congregation in communion as it was World Wide Communion Sunday.

Pastor May’s sermon was entitled, “How Do You Get to Heaven?”, and was based on the Gospel scripture of Mark 10:2-16. In the passage, Jesus explains that you have to be one like a child to inherit eternal life. He held up a child and said, “ Be like this child.”  He also said be born again. When questioned by the Sanhedrin Council, Jesus told them, that it was not through a womb rebirth, but a spiritual rebirth.  A child is innocent but not sinless; a child has not yet learned prejudice or bias; a child has not learned how to hate; a child is dependent on adults for security and food; a child knows a reward is coming from his dependence; a child is teachable and inquisitive; a child believes. Childish and child-like are two very different things. An adult cannot get those child-like characteristics. Only God can give those in order for a person to enter the Kingdom of God. Pastor May explained that it is awesome what God expects of us because he provides the solution.

Reverend Larry May is a retired minister from United Church of Christ, serving over 50 years in the ministry of God. 

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

The Stateline Writers' Club will meet Saturday, Oct. 16 at 10 a.m. in the Celina library. The writing theme is What is your Profession or Career? Ron will present the lesson.

 
October 6-7, 2021
 

Robotic Treatment for Patients with Enlarged Prostate

Van Wert Health announced today that it is the first in the region to offer Aquablation therapy for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

BPH, or an enlarged prostate, is a non-cancerous condition where the prostate has grown to be larger than normal. 1 in 2 men ages 51 to 60 have BPH, and the incidence increases every decade of life. 1 If left untreated, BPH can cause significant health problems, including irreversible bladder or kidney damage, bladder stones, and incontinence. The problem with BPH surgical treatments today is that they often force men to trade off between symptom relief and side effects, limiting patients to choose between either a high degree of symptom relief with high rates of irreversible complications (such as incontinence, erectile dysfunction, or ejaculatory dysfunction) or low degree of symptom relief with low rates of irreversible complications.

Aquablation therapy is a different type of treatment for BPH. It’s an advanced, less invasive treatment that uses the power of water delivered with robotic precision to provide best-in-class and long-lasting symptom relief with low rates of irreversible complications, regardless of prostate size or shape. 2,3

“We are proud to be among the first in the region to offer a solution for men with BPH that provides proven BPH relief without some of the compromise of traditional surgical approaches,” said Scott Shie, MD, Board Certified Urologist at Van Wert Health. “Aquablation therapy is the next step to furthering our commitment to precision robotic surgery and men’s health. We are ideally structured to offer advanced, high-level care in a safe and comfortable environment with excellent support staff and focus on a patient-centered approach.”

Aquablation therapy is performed by the AquaBeam Robotic System, the first FDA-cleared, surgical robot utilizing automated tissue resection for the treatment of LUTS due to BPH. It combines real-time, multi-dimensional imaging, automated robotic technology, and heat-free waterjet ablation technology for targeted, controlled, and immediate removal of prostate tissue. Aquablation therapy offers predictable and reproducible outcomes, independent of prostate anatomy, prostate size, or surgeon experience.

Aquablation therapy has proven results. In clinical studies, Aquablation therapy has been shown to provide both best-in-class and durable symptom relief with low rates of irreversible complications.2-4

A study within the Journal of Sexual Medicine, which surveyed 300 men living with BPH, revealed 92% of respondents expressed an interest in learning more about Aquablation therapy.5 This data demonstrates the need within the patient population to find relief without the trade-off between symptoms and relief side effects.

For more information about aquablation and the other urological services offered at Van Wert Health, visit vanwerthealth.org or call 419-232-6051.

References:

1.      Roehrborn, CG, Rosen, RC. Medical therapy options for aging men with benign prostatic hyperplasia: focus on alfuzosin 10 mg once daily. Clinical Interventions in Aging 2008:3(3).

2.      Gilling, P, et al. Three-Year Outcomes after Aquablation Therapy Compared to TURP: Results from a Blinded Randomized Trial. Can J Urol. 2020 Feb;27(1):10072-10079.

3.      Desai, M, et al. Aquablation for benign prostatic hyperplasia in large prostates (80-150 cc): 2-year results. Can J Urol. 2020 Apr;27(2):10147-10153.

4.      Bach, T, et al. First Multi-Center All-Comers Study for the Aquablation Procedure. J Clin Med. 2020 Feb; 9(2): 603.

5.      Data from a global survey of 300 patients with BPH. Data on file at PROCEPT BioRobotics.

Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

Ohio Law prohibits signs on trees and poles

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

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

 
October 5, 2021
 

Parkway Schools are NOW CLOSED
due to fog
for Tuesday, October 5, 2021

Parkway Schools are upgraded to a
3 hour delay due to fog
for Tuesday, October 5, 2021

Parkway Schools are on a
2 hour delay due to fog
for Tuesday, October 5, 2021

Your business could sponsor this weather delay.
 

 
October 1-4, 2021
 

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

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Steve Howell back to the pulpit at 10 AM on Sunday, October 10, 2021. His message entitled “Jesus is the Good Shepherd” is based on the Gospel Lesson John 10:1-14 ~ for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

Steve recently preached on the story of the Blind Man who saw for the first time. The works of God are reveled through him when Jesus restores his sight. This was another lesson from the Gospel of John.                                                                                                                                                

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

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

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

Fatal Farm Accident
Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today deputies are investigating a fatal farm accident. Mercer County 9-1-1 dispatchers received a call at 9:10 AM on September 30th from 7107 Indian Trail Rd., Maria Stein in reference to a male that may have been struck with a grain wagon.

First responders were unable to revive the subject, later identified as Brian Dahlinghaus, age 66, of the Indian Trail address.

The accident remains under investigation. The Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by Osgood Squad and Fire Dept.

Parkway October 2021 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

 
September 27-30, 2021
 

Historical Interpreter to Speak at DAR Meeting in Van Wert
The Isaac Van Wart Chapter of the DAR plans to meet on Wednesday, October 6, 2021 at 11:30 AM at the Willow Bend Country Club, 579 Hospital Drive - Van Wert.

The program, "Our Founding Fathers," will be presented by Dave Walker, a historical interpreter.  Mr. Walker is a retired Van Wert Elememtary School teacher who makes appearances as Jefferson Davis, former Confederate President at Civil War reenactments, Civil War round tables, Civil War ball, Civil War fashion shows, school classrooms, and other events.  He has immersed himself in American history since reading his first book about Abraham Lincoln when he was in the third grade.  He’s been doing this with his wife Holly for 15 years (shown at left). They travel all over the United States.

AutumnFest coming to St. Paul's  

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, 1522 Oregon Rd., Rockford, OH will be having their annual  “AUTUMNFEST”  on Sunday, October 10, 2021.

The evening begins with delicious food at 4:30.  The menu includes Creamed Chicken, Roast beef and BBQ Pork..  We will also be serving noodle and chili soup.  Cake and pie will also be included.

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

The proceeds from the evening will be used for Kingdom Harvest Ministry, Celina and Parkway Backpack Program and for future projects for the Women’s Fellowship.

Everyone is invited to this event.

Rockford Bicentennial Committee to meet

The Rockford Bicentennial Meeting will be meeting on Monday, October 4th in the Rockford Village Hall and Museum at 7:00pm.  All committee members are encouraged to attend.  

Van Wert County Health Department to Begin Offering Booster Doses of Pfizer Vaccine

The Ohio Department of Health has released guidance for vaccine providers to begin offering booster doses of Pfizer vaccine.  The Van Wert County General Health District will hold a clinic for booster doses of Pfizer vaccine on Wednesday, September 29, from 12:00 to 4:00 pm and on Thursday, September 30, from 12:00 to 4:00 pm.  A person must have completed the Pfizer vaccination series at least 6 months ago to receive the booster dose.  Please bring your vaccination card or record.  For more information on the booster shots, please see the Fact Sheet on COVID-19 Vaccine Booster Doses.  At this time booster doses are not approved for Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccines.  The regular COVID-19 clinic is still scheduled for Thursday, September 30 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm.  In addition, the health department will begin offering flu vaccinations every Thursday from 8:30 am to 11:00 am.  Please continue to monitor our website, media, and our Facebook page for future clinic information.

LAAG ART CENTER AND GALLERY 
The Lake Area Arts Group (LAAG) announces the opening of its Art
Center and gallery at 108 S. Main St. in Celina. LAAG will be sharing
space with Lake Rat Brewing next to Brew Nation and invites artists to
display and sell their work.
LAAG will begin accepting art beginning September 30th, 2021. LAAG
president, Sherry Chandler, asks that artists email lakeareaartsgroup@gmail.com for more information about bringing art to the gallery. Sales of art will be handled by staff of Brew Nation with
a 40% commission. Members of LAAG will pay a 30% commission. Both
hangable art and 3D works can be accepted.
The gallery and center plans to be up and running during Celina’s
Downtown Art Walk and Fall Festival on October 9th and gallery hours will be the same as Brew Nation which presently is open Wednesday thru
Saturday. 

Reservations Open for “The Wild Women of Winedale”

Van Wert, OH- Reservations open Monday, Sept 27th for members and Wednesday, Sept 29th to the general public for Off Stage Productions’ next dinner theatre show “The Wild Women of Winedale”, a two-act comedy written by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten. Performances will again be held at Vantage Career Center, 818 N. Franklin Street, Van Wert, Ohio.  Show dates are October 15, 16, 17 and 22, 23 and 24. Saturday and Sunday performances will be dinner theatre shows. For Saturday performances, doors will open at 6:30 PM, dinner at 7:00 PM and show at 8:00 PM.  For Sunday matinee performances, doors will open at 12:30 PM, dinner at 1:00 PM and show at 2:00 PM.  We now have a new caterer that will be preparing and serving the full-course meals to patrons, Rockford Carry Out and Catering. Cost for the dinner and show will remain at $28.

Our Old Bookcase, Sept. 23, 2021,  New Idea Corn Picker & John Deere Spoker D

= = = = =

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

Photo Caption:  New Idea Two-Row Pull Type Corn Picker is shown with the John Deere Model D Tractor “Spoker D,” at the Henry Ford Museum at Dearborn, Michigan.  The NI Corn Picker was built in 1928 at the New Idea Company at Coldwater, Ohio.

The New Idea Company at Coldwater donated the 1928 New Idea Two Row Corn Picker, Model Two, to the Henry Ford Museum of Dearborn, Michigan, in honor our Nation’s Bicentennial Celebration in 1976. 

Before New Idea donated this Corn Picker to the Henry Ford Museum, they brought the New Idea Corn Picker to Tom Hoyng at his Custom Body Shop at Coldwater.  On the Two-Row 1928 Corn Pickers, the center snout would take a beating.  In fact, that entire 1928 Corn Picker was “beat up.”  The New Idea Staff did not want it perfect, but wanted Tom to hammer it out with a hammer and dolly.

This Corn Picker is shown, in the photograph, with the John Deere Model D Tractor, “Spoker D,” which was built between 1924 and 1925.  The JD Tractor is known as a “Spoker D,” because it had a spoked flywheel, and a Power Take-Off.  JD Serial No. 30401 was the first “Spoker D,” built November 30, 1923.  Serial number 40451 was the first “Spoker” with a cast front axle, built January 15, 1924.  In 1924, Serial Numbers 31280 and up were available with power shaft assembly (P.T.O.).  (The 1926 JD Tractors had a solid fly wheel keyed to the crankshaft.)  On the exhibit in the photograph, the left wheel (on steel) had been removed, and the fly wheel placed on the floor.  This story is told in the book, “New Idea Company’s Corn Pickers, 1925-1982” on pages 6, 25, and 103, and published by the New Idea Historic Preservation Committee (NIHP) of the Mercer County Historical Society, Inc. in 2015.

This NIHP Committee was formed in January 2000, by the Mercer County Historical Society, with a Mission not only To Preserve New Idea Company’s History, but also To Educate the Public about this history.  This Committee has hosted Exhibits, held Manual Sales, and has published four New Idea History Books about the NI Horse Drawn Manure Spreaders, Corn Pickers, Uni-System, and Hay Tools.  This History would have been lost without this NIHP Committee’s Dedication to preserving it. 

Two other major Committees have also worked to preserve local history of Mercer County. 

October 24, Sunday, will be our next Open House at the Mercer County Historical Museum, featuring the Military Exhibit by the Museum of the Soldier, Portland, Indiana.  They have hosted over twenty annual exhibits about Military History at our Mercer  County Historical Museum. 

  Since the book, “Mercer County Centennial Buildings” was so popular, at our “Old Book Sale,” we will give away copies of this 1888 and 1900 Village Plat Map book to the first 30 Guests on October 24th.

Sunday November 14th the Committee for preserving local history by preserving Post Cards with local images will be hosted by Co-Chairmen Dale Poeppelman and David Gray.  They have hosted this exhibit for two decades at our Mercer County Historical Museum.  Bring your old post cards with photographs and see what stories the old post cards tell. 

The Mercer County Historical Society has held dozens of unique exhibits about history since the Museum re-opened at the new site of 130 East Market, in The Riley Home, in 1975.  The Mercer County Commissioners appointed Joyce Alig as Director of this County Museum, beginning in 1975.  She retired from this position on February 29, 2004, and has continued to volunteer all of these years.

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

A Letter from the Health Commissioner - To Our Van Wert County Citizens:

The COVID-19 virus is once again hitting our county and it’s hitting it hard. 

Our hospital has several hospitalizations with patients with the COVID-19 virus, our hospital staff and system are being challenged, and people, young and old, are dying from the virus.  The COVID-19 virus infection has become a disease of the unvaccinated.  What can we all do to beat this virus, stop its spread, and save people’s lives?

Be sensible.  Use all the methods we know to mitigate (make less severe) this virus:

Mask in situations that will protect you and those around you. 

Distance yourself from others when necessary, especially with indoor gatherings.

Wash hands frequently.

Vaccinate to teach your immune system to build proteins (antibodies) to disarm the virus.

Millions of Americans have received the COVID-19 vaccination without ill after effects.

The vaccination is designed to help minimize the impact the virus will have on you.  People may get infected with the virus after the vaccination but get a milder form of the illness, are not developing lung failure requiring ventilators, and are not dying from the aggressive virus. 

We are advising you to become well-informed, knowledgeable, and empowered to make healthy responsible decisions in controlling the spread and ultimately defeating the COVID-19 virus so we can soon return to a safer community.

Please do your part to help yourself and each other!

Sincerely,

Paul A. Kalogerou, MD
Health Commissioner

On September 23, 2021, the Van Wert County General Health District reports 1 additional COVID-19 death of a resident of Van Wert County, bringing the total number of COVID-19 deaths to 61.  The Van Wert County General Health District would like to express our deepest sympathies for the family and friends of the deceased.  The age range of the newly reported death is 50-59 years.   There have also been 9 confirmed cases who have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19. 

Due to a human clerical error on our tracking system, our release last week had an incorrect number for the increase in cases.  We apologize for the error.  The increase last week should have been reported as 113 cases with a total of 2,938 confirmed cases.  Today, the health department reports an increase in 125 confirmed cases of COVID-19 since Thursday, September 16, 2021 for a total of 3,063 confirmed cases. We have 3 known hospitalizations of county residents due to COVID-19. To date, the health department has given 11,473 COVID-19 vaccinations. 

While the FDA has approved the Pfizer booster for those 65 and older, the Van Wert County Health Department cannot administer the booster until we received guidance from the Ohio Department of Health.     

The health department continues to offer Pfizer and Moderna vaccine every Thursday from 2-4 pm at the Van Wert County Health Department.  Pfizer vaccine is available for all those age 12 and up and Moderna for those age 18 and up.  Third doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine are available for immunocompromised individuals only.  The health department encourages interested individuals to consult with their physician to determine whether they are eligible for this third dose.  The patient must meet eligibility criteria and must have completed the Pfizer or Moderna vaccination series at least 28 days ago.  Please bring your photo id and any insurance info. Those under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian present as well as proof of age such as a shot record or birth certificate. The health department is not making appointments at this time, as all clinics are walk-in only.

 
September 22-26, 2021
 

Come Hear Reverend Larry May at St. Paul’s

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Reverend Larry K. May to the pulpit at 10 AM on Sunday, October 3, 2021 which is World Wide Communion Sunday. His message entitled “How Do You Get to Heaven” is based on the Gospel Lesson Mark 10:2-16 ~ for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.     

Larry has been in the ministry for 50 years and is retired from the United church of Christ Church and was a pastor at St. Paul’s for many years.

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

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

Homecoming Festivities and Beautiful Weather Mix Well
by Jessica Smalley, Advisor and pictures shared by Lucky6Pix
Parkway High School held their annual Fall Homecoming ceremony on Friday, September 17, 2021, when they hosted the St. Henry Redskins in football action. Senior, Dani Huff, was crowned 2021 Fall Homecoming Queen by last year's queen, Claire Rutledge. The court included Freshman Cali Bollenbacher, Sophomore Olivia Dicke, Junior Abby Baltzell, and Seniors Dani Huff, Molly Hileman, and Raegan Roehm. Students enjoyed a dance on Saturday night. A big thank you goes to the school and community for their support!

Reverend Doug Meyer fills the pulpit at St. Paul's UCC

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Reverend Doug Meyer to the pulpit on Sunday, September 19, 2021. He provided a Children’s Message.

Doug continued with the sermon, It is All About Grace, which was based on the Gospel scripture of Matthew 20:1-6. In the parable of the workers in the vineyard, the landowner is compared to the Kingdom of Heaven. The landowner goes out at the beginning of the day and hires workers. Three more times during the day, he hires workers. Some worked all day; some an hour, but they each got a denarius for their labor.  The whole day workers grumbled. But the landowner said he was being fair that the labor was worth a denarius no matter the time the labor involved. It is like that with the Kingdom of Heaven, said Pastor Doug. God wants us all to come to his kingdom. This is God’s Grace. Do we want God to give us what is fair or be gracious? Pastor Doug reminded us that we DO need God’s Grace because of our sins. Grace says I will remove you from all your sins. “This is God’s Incredible Grace; his love for us,” said Pastor Doug.

Reverend Doug Meyer is the retired minister from St. John’s Lutheran Church in Celina serving over 50 years in the ministry of God.  He delivers a powerful message and will be back in the pulpit on Sunday, November 7, 2021. Services start at 10 AM. Children’s Church is during the Worship Service.

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

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – September 22, 2021

By Paige Keysor, Emergency Response Coordinator/Health District Public Information Officer

CELINA- As of September 22, 2021, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 4,706 confirmed cases, 916 probable cases, 4,433 recovered cases, six known hospitalizations, 93 COVID-19 deaths, and 20 probable deaths of COVID-19 among Mercer County residents. In addition, there have been 50 confirmed cases who have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19. Today, there are 132 known active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County.  Out of the cumulative total of confirmed cases, there has been a total of 42 reinfections of COVID-19. All of the currently hospitalized individuals are unvaccinated.

There have been 33 confirmed and 12 probable cases of COVID-19 among fully vaccinated Mercer County residents. Of those individuals, four were hospitalized and have since recovered. Four have passed away.

Mercer Health has reported to MCHD a total of nine inpatient COVID-19 hospitalizations currently. Of these nine inpatients hospitalized, six are Mercer County residents.

The transmission rate of COVID-19 in Mercer County continues to be high. A high transmission rate is defined as 100 or more new cases per 100,000 people in a 7-day period or a test positivity rate of 10% or higher. Mercer County has seen 303 cases per 100,000 people in the past seven days and has a test positivity rate of 17.02%.  This data can be found here: https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#county-view.

The MCHD is awaiting guidance on how to proceed with the COVID-19 Pfizer booster dose. Once this guidance is received, the MCHD will release that information through a media release and social media updates.

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

Lock One Theater Special Movie
The Lock One Theater will be showing a Special “Sensory Friendly” Show of The Addams Family 2 at 6:30pm on Wednesday, October, 6,2021.

We’ll have the lights up more and the volume down. Feel free to get up, dance, sing to the music, and walk (not run) around and in/out of the theater. Bring your comfort items (blankets, fidgets, etc.) and enjoy a memorable experience!

Our regular concessions and vending machines will be available and people with strict, special dietary needs are permitted to bring their own gluten-free, casein-free, etc. snacks from home.

The Addams Family 2 - Starting October 1st, 2021

This computer animated sequel features the famously frightful family taking a vacation in their RV. The family voice cast returns for Gomez, Morticia, Wednesday, Pugsley, Uncle Fester, Cousin Itt, Lurch, and Grandmama Addams. Comedian Bill Hader and character actor Wallace Shawn join in the all-star voice cast.

Starring: Oscar Isaac, Charlize Theron, Chloë Grace Moretz

Runtime: 1 hr. 27 min.

Rated PG

Animated, Comedy, Adventure

Showtimes:

Friday: 7:00

Saturday: 12:15 / 2:30 / 4:45 / 7:00

Sunday: 12:15 / 2:30 / 4:45

Wednesday (Oct. 6): Special “Sensory Friendly” Show: 6:30

Thursday: 7:00

 
September 15-21, 2021
 

CONSTITUTION WEEK FACTS - September 17-23, 2021

 What is a proclamation? A proclamation is an official public announcement, usually issued by mayors, governors, etc. 

 Why does the DAR actively promote Constitution Week? Constitution Week was initiated by the Daughters of the American Revolution. The DAR is a patriotic organization that encourages education and historic preservation in communities across America. 

 How did Constitution Week begin? In 1955, the President General of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Gertrude S. Carraway, adopted a project to promote the observance of the U.S. Constitution with a memorial week beginning on the anniversary of the signing of this document, September 17. She asked DAR chapters, committees, and members to study, teach, and discuss the U.S. Constitution. Caraway also encouraged members to invite their governors and mayors to issue proclamations celebrating the Constitution.   When did the United States government begin to observe Constitution Week? Constitution Week was officially declared by President Eisenhower on August 2, 1956. This was the culmination of a proposal the DAR sent through Senator William F. Knowland of California.

 Is there a memorial honoring the Constitution? Yes. DAR Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. The inscription on the pediment reads, “Constitution Hall – a memorial to that immortal document, the Constitution of the United States, in which are incorporated the principles of freedom, equality and justice for which our forefathers strove.” DAR Constitution Hall is the only structure dedicated to the U.S. Constitution.   

Traffic Fatality Being Investigated
Mercer County Sheriff, Jeff Grey reports that deputies investigated a fatal traffic crash Saturday morning.   Central Dispatch received a 911 call of a traffic crash at 7:38 AM near 2301 Rolfes Road. 

The investigation found that 74 year old Vernon E Bruns of 8600 William Street Maria Stein, Ohio was walking east on the Rolfes Road in the eastbound lane.  65 year old Alfred L Henry of 9542 Stonerock Road Versailles, Ohio was driving a 2001 Chevy pickup truck also eastbound on Rolfes Road.  Henry reported that due to the rising sun, he did not see Bruns on the roadway and struck him. Bruns was pronounced dead at the scene.  Henry was not injured.

Assisting the Sheriff’s Office on the scene were members of the Saint Henry EMS and Chickasaw Fire Department. 

The case remains under investigation.  A completed a report will be sent to Celina City Law Director George Moore for review of possible charges. 

Musical opens at Civic Theatre in Van Wert

Motherhood, the Musical opens at Van Wert Civic Theatre on September 23 for a two-week run. VWCT is back with “Live Theatre Better Than Ever”.   This funny show with book, music, and lyrics by Sue Fabisch and arrangements by Johnny Rodgers, takes a walk through all things motherhood - the good, the bad, the funny, and the touching.  This is an evening of pure entertainment.  In fact, this year’s entire season is lighthearted fun.  The theme for this season is “We’re Still Standing”, and VWCT has persevered to bring shows back to their 170-seat intimate theatre on South Race Street in Van Wert, Ohio. 

Director / Choreographer Jerry Zimmerman and Music Director Dee Fisher have assembled a stellar cast.  This production is a collaboration with Amil Tellers Encore Theatre who will have a six-show run after the show closes at VWCT.  Not only is the collaboration innovative but so is the casting.  Two of the roles are shared by actresses.  Each performance will be a unique show.

Debbie Briggs plays the soon-to-be mom, Amy; and Stacy Rife plays Barb, an overworked, underpaid, stressed-out mother of five.  The role of Brooke, a lawyer who works too much and barely sees her kids, is shared by two actresses - Mary Ann Falk and  Laura Warnement.  Tina, a single mom struggling to balance work, family, and a divorce, is played by Kristin Lee and Nancy Williams-Shuffle.   In addition to the four main characters, a fifth gal graces the stage.  Audiences will have to show up to see who is singing that role each night. 

Motherhood, the Musical runs September 23, 24, 25, 26*, 30, and October 1, 2, 3* with curtain times at 8 p.m. Thursday - Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday.  All tickets are $16 and are on sale now. Visit vwct.org to order online or call 419-238-9689.  Call-in Box Office hours may vary. If no one answers the phone, please leave a message indicating the night you wish to attend, number of reservations needed, your name, and a phone number. A volunteer will return your call to verify and complete the reservation.  All tickets must be paid for at the time of reservation.

December Christmas Musical Offered in Van Wert Church
First United Methodist Church, located at 113 W. Central Avenue in Van Wert, Ohio is excited to announce they will be presenting a children’s Christmas musical this year, “The King and Me.”

All children from kindergarten up are welcome.

Rehearsals:              Wednesdays, beginning September 22, 5:30 – 6:30

                        (Sunday rehearsals added in November)

No audition required for choir. Signup for auditions for speaking parts and solos will be available.

Performance:            December 19 at 6:30 p.m.

Questions:     Contact Chris Gordon, 614/530-3516 or capullins@hotmail.com

Parkway Girls Golf loses to St Henry 199-224

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

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Steve Howell back to the pulpit at 10 AM on Sunday, September 26, 2021. His message entitled “Jesus is the Good Shepherd” is based on the Gospel Lesson John 10:1-14 ~ for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

Pastor Steve recently completed a two part series entitled Being Set Free (John 8:31-36) and Seeing for the First Time (John 9: 1-12). In the first sermon, Jesus gave us the Good News: the truth will set you free. They answered him that they were not slaves. “We are our own persons, Jesus.” But he gave them the bad news then: You are a slave to sin. Sin enslaves (and Pastor Howell mentioned all kinds of human sins like alcohol, food, gossip and sex), and we have all sinned. Sin matured leads to death through its addictive nature, Pastor Steve said. The addiction of sin can be overcome by abiding in the word of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is in John 8:34. The truth about Jesus Christ is that believing in Him will set you free. In the second sermon, Pastor Steve continued the two part by discussing that all is good in God’s eyes. He created everything about humans and human behavior. Everything he created is perfect in His eyes. Don’t get sucked into the lies of Satan – the master liar. You love the person, but hate the sin, Ephesians 4:15. Speak to those in addicting sin and help them. ‘I love you and want you to live in life eternal’ is our message to the sinner. Jesus told us, I am the way, the truth and the life. All scripture is God-breathed.  Don’t laugh and think Satan is a myth; be sober-minded and alert against Satan who is always looking for another soul.  Steve reminded the congregation to choose God’s word and not the words of the world.

Following the service there will be a Congregational Meeting with a vote.             

Van Wert County General Health District Reports on COVID 9-16-2021
by Britt Menchhofer

On September 16, 2021, the Van Wert County General Health District reports 3 additional COVID-19 deaths of residents of Van Wert County, bringing the total number of COVID-19 deaths to 60.  The Van Wert County General Health District would like to express our deepest sympathies for the family and friends of the deceased.  The age ranges of the newly report deaths are:

70-79 years

80-89 years

90-99 years. 

There have also been 9 confirmed cases who have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19. 

The health department reports an increase in 213 confirmed cases of COVID-19 since Thursday, September 9, 2021 for a total of 3,038 confirmed cases. We have 5 known hospitalizations of county residents due to COVID-19. To date the health department has given 11,444 COVID-19 vaccinations. 

Isolation for those testing positive for COVID-19 is still 10 days from symptom onset, or 10 days from date of positive test date if a person does not have any symptoms.  Quarantine is still 10 days from date of last contact with the positive person, or 7 days if no symptoms and a negative test is received after day 5 of last contact.  If a person is vaccinated and has contact with a positive case, the person does not have to quarantine if no symptoms are exhibited. 

Van Wert County continues to see a high rate of transmission, which is based on the total new cases per 100,000 residents and the percentage of positive tests in the last 7 days.  This data can be found on the CDC COVID-19 Data Tracker at https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker.) 

The health department continues to offer Pfizer and Moderna vaccine every Thursday from 2-4 pm at the Van Wert County Health Department.  Pfizer vaccine is available for all those age 12 and up and Moderna for those age 18 and up.  Third doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine are available for immunocompromised individuals only.  The health department encourages interested individuals to consult with their physician to determine whether they are eligible for this third dose.  The patient must meet eligibility criteria and must have completed the Pfizer or Moderna vaccination series at least 28 days ago.  Additional doses or booster shots are not available at this time for any other individuals.  Please bring your photo id and any insurance info. Those under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian present as well as proof of age such as a shot record or birth certificate. The health department is not making appointments at this time, as all clinics are walk-in only.

Fall Fest Planned in Rockford on October 30, 2021
On behalf of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce Executive Board, we would like to invite you to get involved in our Community Fall Fest to be held on October 30th, 2021, 10 AM to 8 PM.

Rockford Fall Fest Planning is currently underway.  Tentatively scheduled is: an open-air vendor market along with business sales and promotions; an Opening Ceremony compliments of the Rockford American Legion; the Rockford Carnegie Library will be hosting a book sale and a craft; we are promoting a business decorating contest; the afternoon will transition to some ole time baseball with the Ohio Village Muffins at Shanes Park; and back to Main Street in the evening for trick or treating and costume judging at the Fire House.   We are doing our best to bring the Rockford community a rewarding and fun filled event – would you like to join us? 

If you are interested in returning to Rockford Fall Fest 2021 or becoming a new vendor  – please contact the Village Office at 419-363-3032 ext. 1 or email lisa.kuhn@rockfordohio.org to get vendor information and pricing to participate.

In order to be included in advertisement and promotions, we need your information by October 1st at 4:30 pm.

All vendor forms should be dropped off with payment to Rockford Village Hall – located at 151 E Columbia St.     

Dollars raised from this event goes toward the Chamber Membership Grant Program.

Celina Police Department New Release 09/15/2021

On Wednesday, September 15, 2021 at about 8:30AM Celina Police responded to a call of an erratic driver coming into town on Frahm Pike from SR118.  Officers located the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop on Summit St.  The suspect vehicle, a 2007 Cadillac SUV turned into the Marathon service station on N Main St at Summit St in an attempt to elude officers.  A man exited from the driver’s seat and fled on foot southwest to the Plaza parking lot.  The man, 26 year old Skyler Lawrence, of Portland, Indiana was caught on the parking lot by a Celina Police officer, Patrolman A.J. Poppe. 

Lawrence aggressively resisted Ptl. Poppe’s arrest, attempting to escape.  A Celina man, Brian Moeller ran from his business, Gentlemen’s Quarters and assisted Ptl. Poppe in gaining control of Lawrence. 

Skyler Lawrence was found to have multiple warrants in Jay County, Indiana for dealing in methamphetamines.  He also had suspected meth on his person at the time of arrest.  More was found in the vehicle.

A female passenger in the Cadillac was also found to be in possession of drugs, suspected fentanyl.  While being processed into jail she was also found to be hiding more on her person.  She was identified as 20 year old Christian Mae Scott of Portland, Indiana.

Both are being held in the Mercer County Jail pending an initial appearance in court.  The charges will be determined by a Mercer County Grand Jury on September 16th.

The Celina Police Department would like to especially thank Brian Moeller for his assistance as well as the citizen who reported the dangerous driving to Central Dispatch.  Help from our citizens keeps us all safer.

Dominion Energy Foundation Grant Awarded to Our Home Family Resource Center

CELINA – Our Home Family Resource Center has received a grant from the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation. Through its charitable foundation, Dominion Energy contributes tens of millions of dollars into organizations and programs that improve the quality of life in communities the company serves.

The grant is directed to Our Home’s Direct Services & Referral Program and its efforts to help Mercer County residents meet basic needs such as food and shelter. Assistance through the Direct Services Program is available for any Mercer County resident with a household income below 200 percent poverty rate.

Issues that the Direct Services team regularly respond to include: medical costs and transportation needs not covered by insurance, emergency shelter, household expenses or evictions, and home repairs. Direct Services also runs an on-site food pantry stocked with canned fruits and vegetables, meat, pastas, soup, milk, and other basic nutritional items. Personal care items such as soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, toilet paper and diapers are provided through the pantry as well.

“Our goal is to help Mercer County residents keep a roof over their head and food on their table” stated Deb Simon-Heinfeld, marketing/development coordinator at Our Home. “Nearly 25 percent of our neighbors are one illness, injury, or unexpected expense away from needing a hand up to get through a tight spot; this Dominion Foundation grant helps ensure that we will be here to assist them if that occurs.” 

Our Home is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located at 117 W. Fayette Street in Celina. The Direct Services & Referral Program hours are 8:30am-12:00pm and 1:00pm-4:30pm Monday through Thursday; the food pantry operates Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30am-12:00pm and 1:00pm-3:00pm. For more information, visit www.ourhomefrc.com or call 419-586-4663.

Marion Local Defeated Parkway girls 216-225

 
September 13-14, 2021
 

Member of Church Delivers Message

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH heard a message, on Sunday, September 12, 2021, from member Becky Jo Shope. Her inspiration, and the title, was, “My Country Church”. Not just a physical location or building, but it is the people who gather that make up the right ingredients of the church. One might be involved in an old time country church: if fresh produce is handed-out free after services in the summer; if a special offering funds a new septic tank at the parsonage; or if you find yourself in the middle of nowhere surrounded by corn fields.

Becky said that we need other Christians, and that the more time we spend with God’s people, the more we follow Jesus. Our faith is strong, and we rely on Jesus. We are forgiven for our sins, but will always be sinners. We all fall short. But our church congregates and lifts us to a place where we can be healed. We are not perfect but believe in God and depend upon each other.

In our church are those with many different gifts and we rely on each person to use their gifts to the glory of God. “We are a great country church. And church is no longer an option for me because of all of you here,” said Becky.

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

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

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

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

Names from left to right:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

UPDATE as of September 10, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
September 6-7, 2021
 

Labor Day Race Change at the Van Wert County Fair

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

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

Parkway September 2021 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

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

FOG SEAL

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

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

Further fill the cracks and voids in the pavement

Virtually eliminate all the dust and loose stone

Lessen the noise factor created by the new surface

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

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

VWCF ACCEPTING GRANT APPLICATIONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Letter to Sellers and Servers of alcohol
Dear Business Owners, 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you!
The Mercer County Prevention Coalition

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Assure Suicide Awareness Community Walk - Benefiting Suicide Awareness and Support

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DEADLINE: September 17, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
September 1-5, 2021
 

Parkway Boys Golf on August 30, 2021

Parkway: 178

New Bremen: 188

Medalist: Caden Slusher (41)

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

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

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

Complete match results here:

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

Rockford Car Show and Cruise-In Hailed Success

Rockford Lions Quarter Auction Planned September 12, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

Roadside Herbicide

To spray or not to spray

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

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

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

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

By Ryan Thompson
Photos by Leah Thompson

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

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

Parkway defeats Crestview 5-1 in match play.

Parkway's record: 3-2

Crestview's record: ?

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

Parkway boys golf defeats New Knoxville at Arrowhead Golf Course

Parkway: 185

New Knoxville: 217

Medalist: Roman Leszinske (PW) - 43

Runner-up: Cadan Slusher (PW) - 45

Also scoring for the Panthers:

Gabe Schaaf - 48

Hunter Bruns - 49

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

Complete match results here:

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

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

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

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

 
August 26-31, 2021
 

Mercer County Peri Chapter #13 to Meet

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Please come and join us at 10 AM.

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

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

 
August 21-25, 2021
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Koch Scholarship Recipient Honored for 2021

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

 
August 18-20, 2021
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Parkway Class of 1972 Outlines the 2022 Reunion Celebartion

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Working together makes the community better !

New 1820 Replica Flag Donated


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Heroin Interdiction Team Makes Arrests

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

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

Arrested were the following people.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Jeff Grey

Sheriff

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Road Closures – Temporary

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

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

New Physician Joins Van Wert Health Center for Urology

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Primary Care Physician Joins Van Wert Health

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

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

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

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

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

 
August 12-17, 2021
 

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

Two County Road Closures Announced

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

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

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

Nurse Practitioner Joins Van Wert Health

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

COVID-19-related hospitalization or death

U.S. Resident

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thursday, August 12, 2-4 pm

Thursday, August 19, 2-4 pm

Thursday, August 26, 2-4 pm

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

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

See the Nutcracker for a Beloved Ballet Experience

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rockford Bicentennial Barn Quilt trail is growing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

= = = = =

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Businesses temporarily relocate for Phase 1 of Van Wert Forward

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
August 9-11, 2021
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Feel Good Fridays
by Tafi Stober

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

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

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

Parkway Boys 2021 Golf at Harrod, OH
by Ryan Thompson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jeff Grey

Mercer County Sheriff

Library Board to Meet

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
August 5-8, 2021
 

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

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

 
July 21, 2021 - August 4, 2021
 

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

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

 
July 17-20, 2021
 

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

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

Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

Parkway New Student Registration Days

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

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

FLAG FOOTBALL:

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

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

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: AUGUST 5TH

SOCCER:

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

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

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: AUGUST 13, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Auditions set for musical comedy

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

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

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

Lake Fest 5 k

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buzzards Glory 5 K

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We also need help with this exhibit! 

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

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

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

Roadside Hazards

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

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

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

UPDATES TO FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH - OPERATION BACK TO SCHOOL

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

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

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

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

VWCF RECOGNIZES NEW ENDOWMENT FUND

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

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

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

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

More information is available at www.vanwertcountyfoundation.org.

Attached - picture of Mr. & Mrs. Rolsten

Pictured: (Left to Right)

Adam Clark, Chief Deputy Van Wert County Sheriff Department

Thiason Leaser, Financial Advisor, Edward Jones

Kevin McGough, Son of Patricia Rolsten

Pastor David To, Trinity United Methodist Church

Seth Baker, CEO of The Van Wert County Foundation

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

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

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

 
July 12-16, 2021
 

Click on smaller thumbnail pictures to enlarge.

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

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

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

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

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

Other tests offered during Know Your Numbers month include:

·       Comprehensive Metabolic Profile ($20)

·       Lipid Profile ($20)

·       Complete Blood Count ($20)

·       Hemoglobin A1c ($25)

·       Thyroid Stimulating Hormone ($25)

·       Prostate Specific Antigen ($30)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

First Annual Rally 4 Recovery Event in Van Wert

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

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

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

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

Lambert Days Starts July 16, 2021

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

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

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

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

 
July 10-11, 2021
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
July 7-9, 2021
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Kristy Fryman

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

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

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

 
July 1-6, 2021
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Remi with Flower girl Payton Walley

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

Talent Presentation

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

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

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

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

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

Congratulations Remi Fokine!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click on smaller thumbnail pictures below to enlarge.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
June 26-30, 2021
 

Shane’s Crossing 5K Run

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

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

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

For more information please call 419-953-5001

Taste of Celina Coming July 9th

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The community is invited to worship with us!

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

 
June 23-25, 2021
 

45th OLD FASHIONED FARMERS DAYS COMING TOVAN WERT FAIRGROUNDS                

Entertainers are MATHEW KEELER AND NOAH BLACK                                                                                                                      

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BRIDGE CLOSING - PUBLIC NOTICE

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

 
June 21-22, 2021
 

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

Ohio City’s ‘Lambert Days’ Coming Soon

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

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

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

WILLSHIRE SPORTSMAN’S CLUB HOSTS TRADE DAYS

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

 
June 19-21, 2021
 

Chained Eagles Make appearance at the Rockford Bi-Centennial

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

Kidz Treehouse Wins Decorating Contest in Rockford

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shanes Crossing Historical Society Awards Scholarship

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

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

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

Shanes Crossing Historical Society Scholarship Awarded to Audrey Ford

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

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

Dylan Hughes Awarded Rockford Chamber Scholarship

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

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

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

 
June 16-18, 2021
 

 
June 14-15, 2021
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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