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January 17-18, 2019
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 14 years.
 

 
January 16, 2019
 

Parkway Schools are now closed for Wednesday, January 16, 2019.

Parkway Schools are on a 2 hour delay due to icy roads for Wednesday, January 16, 2019
 

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

  LAKE AREA ARTS GROUP HOSTS "MEET THE ARTIST"
  
  The Lake Area Arts Group will welcome Coldwater quilt artist Marilyn
  Stall on Friday, January 18th at CJ Highmarks from 6-8 pm. This
  reception is open to the public where Stall will be showing her work
  and giving a brief talk about her journey thru quilting seeing herself
  as a "sewist",a sewing artist.She works with cut shapes of fabric in a
  way that resembles a painting's texture to create wall art? Stall's
  work was seen this past year at St. Charles Art Under the Dome.
  
  Students attending her free workshop Saturday, January 19th (10-11:30)
  at the Richardson Bretz building ,will be able to create an 8x8"
  quilted art piece which can be mounted in a frame for displaying.
  Students interested in the workshop can get registration forms from
  school art teachers or contact Sonnie Bernardi: sonnie0088@aol.com.

Heroin Interdiction Team (HIT) Makes Arrest
Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today the arrest of Tyler Weitz after a traffic stop in Celina on January 14th. Mr. Weitz, age 32, Celina, was inside of vehicle that was stopped by Sheriff’s Deputies at the request of the Heroin Interdiction Team (HIT).

A Sheriff’s Office K9 performed a free air narcotic sniff, which resulted in the K9 alerting to the presence of drugs. Mr. Weitz was removed from the vehicle and frisked, which resulted in the recovery of a syringe as well as heroin. He was arrested and incarcerated in the Mercer County Detention Facility where he is presently being held on a $50,000.00 bond, where Mr. Weitz is no stranger having been charged in the past for:  Possession of Heroin, Possession of Drugs, and Possession of Drug Abuse Instruments.

The HIT team is composed of Deputies from the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office as well as Celina and Coldwater Police Departments.

 
January 15, 2019
 

The Parkway Winter Homecoming dance has been rescheduled
for Saturday night,  January 26^th, 2019
following the basketball game until Midnight.
Tickets for students will be available this week at Parkway High School.

 
January 14, 2019
 

Parkway Schools are on a 2 hour delay for Monday, January 14, 2019

Weather related road conditions are affecting many schools.

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

REMINDER

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Saturday, January 19, 2019

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Saturday, January 19, 2019 for the game against Bradford.

Andy and Shannon Wagner; Christopher and Erin Cole; Steve and Teri Samples; Scott and Angie Ransbottom; Matthew and Heidi Tinkham; Scott and Tomi Lautzenheiser; and Kyle and Mary Osbourne.

Please arrive by 5:00 PM.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345.  Thank you for your help! 

Flu Activity Increasing in Ohio; Still Time to Get a Flu Shot
Geographic Spread of Flu Activity Elevated to “Widespread,” Highest Level

COLUMBUS – Flu activity in Ohio is increasing and widespread throughout the state for the first time during this flu season. The number of flu-associated hospitalizations are also rising with 338 new hospitalizations during the first week of January compared to 166 during the last week of December. There have been 893 total flu-associated hospitalizations in Ohio so far this flu season, which runs from October 2018 to May 2019. The number of flu cases typically peak between December and February.

It’s not too late to get a flu shot, and the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that everyone six months old and older get one as the best protection against seasonable flu viruses. It takes about two weeks for a flu shot to take full effect.

“Flu vaccination is the safest and most effective way to prevent the flu which can lead to missed work and school, and cause other serious health complications,” said ODH Medical Director Dr. Clint Koenig. “Pregnant women, young children and people who already have serious medical conditions are especially at risk for serious complications from the flu.

Flu symptoms can include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Although most people fully recover from the flu, some experience severe illness like pneumonia and respiratory failure, and the flu can sometimes be fatal. People who think that they may have the flu and are pregnant, have an underlying medical condition, or who are extremely ill should contact their healthcare provider immediately. Flu vaccines are offered by many doctor’s offices, clinics, local health departments, pharmacies and college health centers, as well as by many employers and some schools.

While vaccination provides the greatest protection against the flu, other effective ways to avoid getting or spreading it include: washing your hands frequently or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer; covering coughs and sneezes with tissues, or coughing or sneezing into your elbow; avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth; and staying home when sick and until fever-free for 24 hours without using fever-reducing medication. 

More information about flu and flu activity in Ohio is available at www.flu.ohio.gov.

Parkway Panthers Weekly Update for January 14-19, 2019

By A.D. Matt Triplett

January 14:

9^th Boys Basketball vs. New Bremen, 6:00 p.m.

JH Boys Basketball vs. Lincolnview, 5:00 p.m.  Track Concessions

January 15:

JH Girls Basketball @ New Bremen, 5:00 p.m.

January 16:

No Athletic Events Scheduled

January 17:

HS Girls Basketball vs. New Bremen, 6:00 p.m.  Football Concessions 

JH Girls Basketball @ Spencerville, 5:00 p.m.

JH Boys Basketball vs. New Bremen, 5:00 p.m.  Football Concessions

January 18:

HS Boys Basketball @ New Bremen, 6:00 p.m.

January 19:

Varsity/JV Boys Bowling @ Versailles, 9:45 a.m.

Varsity Girls Bowling @ Versailles, 1:00 p.m.

HS Boys Basketball vs. Bradford, 6:00 p.m.  *CHALLENGER BASKETBALL*

 
January 12-13, 2019
 

Closings and Cancellations for Saturday and Sunday, January 12 & 13, 2019.

Heavy Snow up to 6 inches in Mercer County Area.

Parkway Homecoming Dance cancelled for Saturday, January 12. To be re-scheduled.

Parkway Girls Bowling Cancelled for Saturday, January 12.

St Paul's United Church of Christ Cancelled for Sunday, January 13.

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

Yep, that's 6 inches of snow on Saturday night 1-12-2019 and still coming down!

 
January 11, 2019
 

Peoples Bank in Rockford Donates to the Veterans Memorial Fund

The Peoples Bank is pleased to make a generous donation of $2,500 to the
Rockford American Legion Post 508 - Veterans Memorial Fund.    
  
Pictured - Terry Joseph - American Legion Representative,
Ryan Sipe - Rockford Peoples Bank - Vice President and Reed Shaffer - American Legion Representative.

Parkway Winter Homecoming January 11, 2019
Three Young Ladies Were Selected to the Court
Senior Attendant: Grace Swander

Senior attendant, Ms. Grace Swander is the daughter of Nikki Zwick and Brad Swander. Grace is a member of New Horizon’s Church. She is active in Parkway volleyball, softball, FTA, FCCLA, FBLA, Yearbook, Science Club, Relay for Life, and Student Government. In her free time, Grace likes to spend time with friends and family, attend sporting events, eat at Taco Bell, and nap. In the fall, Grace is planning to attend Bowling Green State University and major in social work.

Senior Attendant: Izzy Strunk

Senior attendant, Ms. Isabella Strunk is the daughter of Eric and Holly Strunk. She attends New Horizon’s Community Church. Izzy is active in Cross Country, Track, Band, National Honors Society, FFA, Relay for Life, Pep Club, and Wrestling stats. In her free time, Izzy likes to spend time with friends and family, shop at Marshall’s and be a professional procrastinator. Izzy plans to major in nursing, but her college is currently undecided.

Senior Attendant: Madison Kroeger

Senior attendant, Ms. Madison Kroeger is the daughter of Gerald Kroeger and Kim Youtsey. She attends Lifehouse Church in Van Wert. Madison is active in golf, softball, scholastic bowl, National Honors Society, Science Club, and FTA. Madison is the President of Parkway’s FFA Chapter, and currently resides as Parkway Band’s secretary. In her free time, Madison likes to watch Netflix, spend time with friends and family, and hangout with her dog. Madison plans to major in Human Resources, but her college is undecided at this time.

REGIONAL MASTER GARDENER VOLUNTEER TRAINING OFFERED

Do you have an interest in gardening, want to improve your skills, and at the same time, enjoy volunteering and sharing your knowledge with others?  Multiple county OSU Extension offices will partner to host a Master Gardener Volunteer training course for new Master Gardener Volunteers this spring.

The Ohio State University Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Program provides intensive training in horticulture to interested Ohio residents who then volunteer their time assisting with educational programs and activities for Ohio residents through their local Ohio State University Extension county office.  Volunteers are not required to have gardening skills or knowledge; but a passion for learning about gardening and sharing this knowledge with others is a must!

Classes will be held on the Ohio State University Lima Campus beginning with orientation on Tuesday, March 5 and classes being held each Tuesday and Thursday from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. beginning March 7 and continuing through April 25. Additionally, a daylong seminar on Saturday, March 16, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. is required for the course as well.

The training course is open to interested volunteers from any county with the volunteer commitment to be completed in the volunteer’s home county program.

The cost of the training is $150.00 and includes the training manual and materials for the class. The program requires 50 hours of class room training and a commitment of 50 hours volunteer time to become a certified Master Gardener Volunteer. There is also a requirement for a background check at the volunteer’s expense.

More information is available at: vanwert.osu.edu and clicking on the Master Gardener link or by contacting Van Wert County Master Gardener Volunteer Program Coordinator Rachel Hoverman at 419-238-1214 or hoverman.22@osu.edu.

News Release from OSU Van Wert County Extension:

Van Wert County OSU Extension Announces Ohio Pesticide Recertification Class and Fertilizer Recertification Class Dates Set for 2019

You will have two opportunities to renew your Private Pesticide License and your Ohio Ag Fertilizer Recertification in 2019 in Van Wert County

Tuesday February 5th at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds
8:30- 1:30 pm
8:30 - 9:00     Registration
9:00-12:00     PAT Recertification
12:00-12:30    Registration/Break
12:30-1:30      Fertilizer Recertification

Monday March 18th at the Delphos Eagles, Delphos OH
4:00-9:00 pm
4:00-4:30         Registration
4:30-5:30         Fertilizer Recertification
5:30-6:00        Break/Registration
6:00-9:00        PAT Recertification

Old Bookcase, Jan. 17, 2019, Maria Stein Drilling Co., 1912
OUR OLD BOOK CASE  By  Joyce L. Alig, President, Mercer County Historical Society, Inc.
Photo caption:  Maria Stein Drilling Co., 1912

This financial statement was in an old box of St. Henry Catholic Church Financial Statements, headed for the burn pile.  Allen Bernard and I requested permission to study these old documents.  They contributed to the preservation of the history of St. Henry Catholic Church, as to what was happening at a certain time.  The financial Statements contributed to the various businesses with whom the Church did business, throughout those years.  Preservation of Mercer County’s history is what the Mercer County Historical Society does.

With this October 15, 1912, Statement, S. Kunkler signed the statement that the bill was paid on October 16, 1912, check # 445.  H. A. Beckman was the Treasurer, for the St. Henry Roman Catholic Congregation.  The wardens were Ben Heitkamp, G.H. Schmackers, and Stephan Thieman.

The bill for $300.00 was from the Maria Stein Drilling Company, for drilling a gas well for the Church.

Now, who in St. Henry remembers where the gas well was located at the St. Henry Church?

This financial statement contributed to the knowledge that the Maria Stein Drilling Company existed at that time.  The statement also contributed to the knowledge that the St. Henry Church was using gas at that time.

Dear readers:  Over the holidays, I always receive more phone calls and emails than during other times throughout the year.  As a result, my telephone answering machine filled up with messages, fast!  Some of you left messages and you said your phone number so fast, that I could not understand you.

My email filled up faster than the telephone messages.  Doing the research and answering each request is time consuming.

Therefore, instead of calling me and/or emailing me, you are welcome to write me a letter at my home address, listed below.  I respect each one of you.

Thank you for your patience.  I also appreciate all of the times we have heard from our relatives, friends, Historical Society Members, and everyone.   Thank you.

The Mission of the Mercer County Historical Society is To Preserve Mercer County’s History and To Educate the Public about that History.   As this New Year of 2019 begins, I will share the latest news of the Status of the publication of this book, as well as the great stories of the oil and gas wells, with you.  This story about the Maria Stein Drilling Company and the gas well being drilled at St. Henry will be a part of this new book by the Mercer County Historical Society.

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

 
January 9-10, 2019
 

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.

*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 opposite side of mailbox (the low side).

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

Men’s Prostate Cancer Group to Hear About New Treatment Option

Man to Man is a group to support men who have been diagnosed with or have been treated for prostate cancer or who would like more information about prostate cancer.  At the next meeting a presentation will be given on High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) as a treatment option for newly diagnosed or recurring prostate cancer. The meeting will be held at 7:00PM on Tuesday, January 15th at the Joint Township District Memorial Hospital. The atmosphere is casual and all interested men are invited to attend.  For more information contact Dick Falkner, facilitator, at 419-629-9950 or mantoman@nktelco.net.

Parkway FFA Christmas Party
By: Mecaylah Hesse
Parkway FFA Reporter

On December 27th, 2018, Parkway FFA members who chose to attend, convened at Pla-Mor Lanes in Coldwater, Ohio. The FFA provided those who came with free bowling and pizza as a Christmas gift for the members. The members would like to thank the Parkway FFA for the fun experience and Pla-Mor Lanes for hosting the party.

Pictured Back: (Standing, left to right)- Cade Schoenleben and Jack Wehe
(Middle row, left to right) Mecaylah Hesse and Tessa Thatcher
(Front row, left to right) Erica Post, Madison Kroeger, and Molly Post

Local students complete Mercer Health’s babysitting training classes

Thirteen students successfully completed Mercer Health’s babysitter training program in December.

According to Betsy Schoenleben, R.N., Education Coordinator at Mercer Health, the students were trained in proper supervision, basic caregiving skills, and how to respond to an ill or injured child. The students participated in check-offs such as diapering, bottle feeding, and handwashing. As part of the class, Coldwater Police Department and Mercer County Central Dispatch spoke to the students. Students were required to pass a written test to receive certification. Students also viewed a CPR/First Aid video made possible by a donation from the Mercer County Civic Foundation.

“We feel we have provided these students with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely care for children,” Schoenleben said. “However, Mercer Health cannot assume liability concerning the responsibility of these graduates while they are caring for the children of others.”

Students who completed babysitting training class on December 27 and 28, 2018, include:

Lauren Beckman, Emma Eyink, Michaela Firks, Sarah Fritz, Aubrie Heitkamp,

Trevor Heitkamp, Isabella Kahlig, Madelyn Lange, Samantha Miller, Paige Ontrop, Kamdon Riethman, Hailey Stough, and Olivia Uhlenhake.

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

Bingo Coming to Willshire
The Willshire Youth Activities will be sponsoring the annual BINGO fundraiser on Sunday, January 27th.  The event will be held 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, Michael Kors, Pampered Chef, Insta-Pot, OSU items, Fitbit Versa, Shark, Longaberger and more.  The game winnings are being donated by area businesses, individuals, and organizations.  All proceeds will be used to support the summer ball program, in particular to help finish up and stock the new concession stand set to be used this coming Spring.  This event is in no way connected with nor is it sponsored by The Longaberger Company.  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 419-495-2655.  Willshire Youth Activities. 

Bridge Inspection

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart announced recently that the yearly bridge inspections of Mercer County’s 383 bridges on township and county roads have been completed.  Engineer Wiechart and County Bridge Supervisor T. J. Smalley completed the inspections before the end of 2018.

 “Bridge inspection is completed annually for several very important reasons.  First our bridge maintenance/work orders are generated directly from our yearly inspections.  Secondly, decisions on future bridge replacements/rehabilitations are made as a result of the condition ratings garnered from the inspection.  Third and most importantly, we inspect them to protect the public that uses them each day.”  In Ohio, the professionally licensed and elected County Engineer manages and oversees bridge inspections on township and county roadways.  Any questions, concerns about bridges may be directed to the engineer’s office.

Parkway Panthers Weekly Update for January 7-12, 2019

By A.D. Matt Triplett

January 7:
JH Girls Basketball vs. Crestview, 5:00 p.m. Cross Country Concessions
9th Boys Basketball @ Marion Local, 6:00 p.m.
JH Boys Basketball @ Crestview, 5:00 p.m.

January 8:
HS Girls Basketball @ Botkins, 6:00 p.m.
JH Girls Basketball vs. Marion Local, 5:00 p.m. Track Concessions

January 9:
No Athletic Events Scheduled

January 10:
HS Girls Basketball @ Marion Local, 6:00 p.m.
JH Girls Basketball vs. Adams Central 5:00 p.m. Boys Golf Concessions
JH Boys Basketball @ Marion Local, 5:00 p.m.

January 11:
HS Boys Basketball vs. Marion Local, 6:00 p.m. HOMECOMING

January 12:
Varsity Wrestling @ Adams Central, 9:00 a.m.
JH Wrestling @ Ben Logan, 9:00 a.m.
Boys Bowling vs. Ansonia, @ New Bremen, 9:45 a.m.
JV Boys Bowling vs. Coldwater, @ New Bremen, 9:45 a.m.
Girls Bowling vs. Versailles, @ New Bremen 1:00 p.m.
 

 
January 8, 2019
 

Parkway School Board Agenda for Organizational and Regular Meetings
by Sally Cox for January 8, 2019

REMINDER

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday, January 11, 2019

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Friday, January 11, 2019 for the Homecoming game against Marion Local.

Kim Youtsey; Joseph and Amber Noll; Eric and Holly Strunk; Grady and Toni Hauter; Garrett and Judy Hellwarth; David and Angela Hague; Amanda Haver; James and Kristi Harshman; and Michael Gause.

Please arrive by 5:00 PM.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345.  Thank you for your help! 

Lake Area Arts Group Plans Meeting
  
The Lake Area Arts Group meets Monday, January 14 in the Celina Public
Library at 6pm. The meeting is open to the public where attendees will
hear, Lilli Hausfeld, describe how she created an artistic tennis
shoe. Also, Brad Cull, from Minster, will show a short video featuring
his artistic copper works. Information on Marilyn Stahl's youth
quilting workshop, January 19th at the Richardson Bretz Building will
be available. Middle school and High school students can register thru
  art teachers at local schools for this workshop.
  
Local artists are encouraged to bring their art to exhibit at this monthly meeting.

New Adult Education Firefighter Training Program - Slated For February, 2019

Vantage Career Center launches a new Firefighter Training Program at the Ohio Technical Center. The program is slated to begin February, 2019. Courses being offered are Volunteer Fire, Firefighter 1, and Firefighter 1 Transition.

The job outlook for a firefighter is projected to continue to grow in both volunteer and full time positions, while current changing demographics will continue to expand the need for qualified firefighter personnel at all levels of education.

The goal of this program is to meet community needs, and to provide excellent training to aspiring fire and rescue personnel at a convenient, local training facility.

Vantage has been working with many local fire departments to bring this valuable and much needed training to the surrounding communities. Each department has offered advice, guidance, off-site training locations and use of equipment for the program.

Van Wert Fire Lieutenant/Paramedic Brian Ankney will serve as the program Fire Training Coordinator, and provide instruction for the program, along with several other instructors. Ankney has 29 years of experience in firefighter training and 21 years in fire instruction.

The Firefighter Training Program is slated to begin February, 2019 and students are expected to complete training in May, 2019. Current registration has limited space left. The next class will begin in September, 2019.

For registration information, contact Brian Ankney, Fire Training Program Coordinator: 419-238-5411 ext. 2035.

Patrol reminds drivers to prepare for winter weather

Lima – The Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds drivers to winterize their vehicles and follow safe driving tips in preparation for inclement weather. Winter weather can catch drivers off guard, but you can reduce the risks of being involved in a crash by making sure your vehicle is ready for the season, adopting winter driving techniques and following general roadway safety.

Last winter, there were 22,330 crashes on snow, ice or slush covered roads in Ohio. These crashes resulted in 42 deaths and 5,529 injuries. Speed-related factors were reported as a causative factor in 20 percent of all crashes.

Before traveling in winter weather, clear snow and ice from the windows, headlights and taillights of your vehicle. Also, allow defrosters time to work so you can see. Once you begin driving, go slow and increase following distances; remember that bridges, ramps and overpasses will freeze first.

Remember, Ohio law requires headlights to be on at anytime when the windshield wipers of the vehicle are in use because of precipitation. If your vehicle becomes stuck in snow, clear the tail pipe free of all snow and debris to decrease the chance of carbon monoxide poisoning.

The Patrol reminds drivers to stock their vehicles with a winter car kit including: an ice scraper, shovel, jumper cables, flashlight, warning devices, blankets, cell phone charger, first aid kit, tow rope, water, and food for longer trips. It’s also important to ensure your tires have plenty of tread, check your battery and keep your windshield washer reservoir full.

If you must travel in winter weather, visit http://www.ohgo.com/ for real time traffic conditions from the Ohio Department of Transportation.

The Patrol’s winter driving traffic safety bulletin can be found at:

https://www.publicsafety.ohio.gov/links/Winter_Driving_Bulletin_2019.pdf

SHULTZ HUBER & ASSOCIATES, INC. ELECTS
TYSON STUCKEY AS MANAGING PARTNER

DEFIANCE, OHIO – Tyson L. Stuckey, CPA, CVA, MAFM was recently elected by the board of directors of Shultz Huber & Associates to serve as the firm’s managing partner. This appointment comes after the shareholders voted to restructure the firm’s governance model and move away from an executive committee model of governance.

“As we continue to grow as a firm, in terms of the number and size of clients we partner with, the number of our firm’s offices, the number of team members within the firm, and the resources that we have available for our clients, we felt we needed a different form of governance than how we’ve been structured. This change will allow us to adapt and respond more quickly to changes in addition to allowing us to simplify and expedite our decision-making abilities,” said Stuckey.

As managing partner, Stuckey is responsible for the firm’s strategic direction and operations. This includes working with the shareholder group to set long-term and short-term goals and implement strategies and initiatives as they relate to these goals. Stuckey will report to the board of directors, which is made up of shareholders Barbara L. Kohnen, Anthony L. Gericke, Robin K. Brinegar, Stacey A. Baer, S. Rob Bourn, Jr., Kimberly A. Ray and Steven S. Samples.

In addition to his responsibilities as managing partner, Stuckey will continue to serve clients of the firm. As a shareholder himself, Stuckey provides accounting, auditing and taxation services. He also assists business owners with determining a value for their company, succession planning, gifting, estate values, sales and mergers.

Stuckey’s education includes a bachelor’s degree in accounting, business information systems and mathematics from Goshen College. He also holds a master’s degree in accounting and financial management from DeVry University’s Keller Graduate School of Management.

A CPA in both Ohio and Indiana, Stuckey is also a certified valuation analyst. He stays current in the industry with involvement in several professional organizations, including the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Ohio Society of Certified Public Accounts and the National Association of Certified Valuation Analysts.

Stuckey is actively involved in several community civic and professional organizations as well as his church.  In the past, he has also enjoyed devoting time to teaching the next generation of accounting and finance professionals at several area colleges and universities.

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 eight shareholders and over 60 employees.

Coldwater Leadership Night Well Attended
By: Mecaylah Hesse
Parkway FFA Reporter

On December 18th, 2018 four students from the Parkway FFA went to the Coldwater Leadership Night which was held at Coldwater High School. Parkway FFA members Conner Lyons, Corey Walls, Madison Kroeger, and Mecaylah Hesse were in attendance along with many other members from surrounding FFA chapters. Two Ohio state FFA officers, Gretchen Lee (state secretary) and Kaylyn Strahley (state treasurer), were also in attendance Tuesday night to teach the hour-long presentation for the members. Students learned about exceeding their expectations, setting goals for themselves, and pushing themselves to be better people and leaders. The Parkway FFA would like to thank Coldwater High School for holding this leadership night and would also like to thank Gretchen and Kaylyn for spending time with Mercer County FFA chapters. 

Pictured Above:

Coldwater Leadership Night 1- (left to right) Madison Kroeger, Corey Walls, Conner Lyons, and Mecaylah Hesse

Parkway FFA Chapter Members Visit Elementary Classrooms to Teach
By: Mecaylah Hesse
Parkway FFA Reporter

For December PALs, the Parkway FFA Chapter ventured down to the first and second-grade classrooms to teach the students about trees, pigs, and reindeer. The young pupils learned about the growing cycle of apple trees, the sizes and manners of pigs, and many facts about reindeer. The Parkway FFA Chapter would like to thank the first and second grade teachers for being so welcoming and supportive of the PALs program.

Pictured: 

Dec PALS 2- Faith Shellabarger talking with the young students about apple trees.

Dec PALS 1- Mecaylah Hesse helping students water their apple trees that they planted in a cup.

 
January 5-7, 2019
 

Bottle Caps needed for Park Benches in Rockford
New Horizons Student Ministries, led by Pastor Matt Rhynehart, is partnering with the Rockford American Legion Post 508 to collect plastic bottle caps to be recycled into park benches that will benefit the new Veterans Memorial at Hedges Park.   The goal is to provide 4 benches for the park location.  Each bench costs - 200 lbs of plastic caps and $250.00.  

Drop off location will be New Horizons Community Church located at
833 S. Main St, in Rockford on the 3rd Saturdays of each month from 9 am - noon. The 1st drop date will be January 19th.   * Acceptable caps and lids only ~ Please !

Pictured is Pastor Matt and Reed Shaffer - Rockford American Legion Representative

Acceptable Caps and Lids information – click here.

Alumni Music Night Planned at Parkway
The 2019 edition of Alumni Music Night will be Saturday January 26th at 
Parkway High School. Groups performing that evening will be the Alumni 
Pep Band and the Alumni Choir.

On the 26th, the alumni pep band will rehearse from 4-5:30. There will 
be a carry-in for all participating music alumni following the pep band 
rehearsal. The alumni choir, who will be singing The Star Spangled 
Banner before the start of the varsity basketball game, will rehearse 
after the carry-in. All former Parkway, Rockford, Willshire and Mendon 
band and choir members are invited to participate in Alumni Music Night.

If you have questions about or would like to participate in the alumni 
choir, please contact Shannon Wagner at wagners@parkwayschools.org.  If 
you have questions about or would like to participate in the alumni pep 
band, please contact Paula Linn at 88keys@bright.net.

The Peoples Bank Co. Announces President’s Retirement

Coldwater, OH— December 20, 2018 following a distinguished career spanning nearly 30 years as President/CEO, The Peoples Bank Co. announced today that Jack A. Hartings has planned to retire in December of 2019.

Hartings (pictured left) was elected to the President/CEO position in 1990 after serving as Vice President and Loan Officer for approximately seven years. He is the longest serving president in the Bank’s history and has seen many changes throughout his three decades with The Peoples Bank Co. Hartings has built a reputation of unwavering commitment to his customers and the banking industry.

Hartings served as Chairman for the Independent Community Bankers of America (2015-2016) and on their Federal Delegate Board as well as multiple committees within the organization. He previously served as a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. Advisory Committee on Community Banking and was a member of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s Community Bank Advisory Council. He served as a board member of the Ohio Banking Commission, a member of the Federal Reserve Small Bank Advisory Board, and the executive director, Chairman and Board member of the Community Bankers Association of Ohio.

Hartings’ dedication and service led to testifying on community banking issues before the U.S. Senate Banking Committee, U.S. House of Representatives Financial Services Committee and Ohio Senate Ways and Means Committee. His passion for developing and mentoring future leaders within the Bank has given him a virtuous legacy. This legacy paid off as the Board of Directors chose to fill his shoes with long-time lender and Senior Vice President Dan Broering. Hartings & Broering will work together through the next 12 months to ensure a smooth transition.

(Dan Broering pictured below)

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to thank Jack for his many years of service. Jack has been an inspirational leader over the past 30 years. His tireless contributions to the growth and advancement of The Peoples Bank Co. have provided all of us on the PBC team with prosperity and a strong vision for the future. We are deeply grateful to Jack for his innumerable contributions to the success of the Bank.” Said Stephen Lefeld, Chairman of the Peoples Holding Company Board of Directors.

Hartings’ retirement will be effective December 31, 2019. His tenure marked by a significant growth in the size of the Bank, which has more than quadrupled since he assumed his leadership nearly 30 years ago. He plans to remain on the Board of Directors after his retirement and do what he can to support the staff and continue to help the Bank grow and prosper. Broering will take the helm beginning in the New Year, 2020. “I look forward to continuing this legacy of growth and advancement for our customers and communities,” said Broering. He has 27 years of banking experience and has been in a leadership role with PBC for over 20 years. He has a strong background in Agricultural and Commercial Lending. “I am confident that Dan is the right person to lead PBC to even greater success,” said Hartings.

Last Chance to Register – Step Into Your Future!

If you missed out on attending the Vantage Summer Camp – this career exploration is for you! Vantage Career Center is hosting a really cool, hands-on adventure for girls in the 7th and 8th grade on Saturday, January 26, 2019 from 8:30 am – 12:30 pm.  Spend the morning learning new skills and exploring some non-traditional careers.

Participants will learn how to weld metal together to make a personalized name plate in the Welding lab.  Use a tape measure, power drill, hammer, and nails in the Carpentry lab to build a personalized stepstool.  Take on the Excavator Challenge and check out the latest GPS technology for a tractor in the Ag Diesel lab, with the Kenn-Feld Group.  Be one of the lucky ones to try the newest technology apps, 3D virtual reality, and motion capture in the Network Systems lab.  A morning snack, lunch, and a T-shirt are provided AND you get to take home everything you create!  Best of all, it’s FREE!

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

 
January 2-4, 2019
 

Mercer Health Welcomes First Baby of 2019

The first baby of 2019 was born at Mercer County Community Hospital on Tuesday, January 1. Lyndie Cisco was born at 5:04 p.m., weighing 8 pounds 8 ounces and measuring 19 inches. Lyndie is the daughter of Samantha Homan and Cody Cisco of Celina.

The family received a sherpa blanket and a $100 gift certificate to the Celina-Mercer County Chamber of Commerce among other gifts.

Photo: Lyndie Cisco pictured with her parents, Samantha Homan and Cody Cisco.

BLUEGRASS JAM - *FREE Public Event *

Sunday - February 3, 2019 2 - 5 pm
The Rockford Belle - Social Room
135 Market St., Rockford, OH

Bring your acoustic instruments and have fun!

Various artists from Indiana and Ohio 

Presented by Jerry Bolenbaugh - 419-363-3794
and Bob Brown - 419-495-2769.

OHSAA Baseball Umpire Class

The Mid-west Buckeye Umpires' Association will  be hosting a training course for prospective baseball umpires interested in earning OHSAA certification for the upcoming 2018 season. Anyone ages 14+ is eligible to enroll in the class. Cost of the course is $135 - which includes all instructional materials, OHSAA membership fees, rule books, and annual MBUA membership. Classes will be held on Tuesday & Wednesday evenings from 6:00-9:00pm at Van Wert High School on the following dates: February 26, 27, March 5, 6, 12, 13, 20. Course registration and payment can be completed online by visiting www.myohsaa.org and clicking on the "REGISTER" link at the top of the page. Once you have created a free account, click on "Select a Course" and search for "Baseball - Van Wert." For more information, contact Ryan Thompson at (419)305-0426 or Ron Golemon at (419)513-0439.

Fatal Crash Claims the Life of a Columbus Woman

Allen County – The Lima Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a two vehicle fatal crash which occurred on State Route 309 at Thayer Road, east of Lima.

On January 3rd, 2019 at approximately 5:20 a.m., a 2001 Ford Escape, driven by Tashonda Ward, 23, of Columbus, was southbound on Thayer Road and stopped at a stop sign at State Route 309.  When attempting to cross State Route 309, Ms. Ward failed to yield to a 2004 Ford F-250 pickup truck, driven by Mark J. Oberly, 58, of Harrod.  After impact, the F-250 overturned and came to rest in a field.  The Escape traveled off the road and came to rest in a field.

A passenger in the Escape, two year old Christian Cabrera-Clark, was not properly restrained in a child safety seat and was ejected at impact.  He was transported to Lima Memorial Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.  Mr. Oberly was transported to Lima Memorial Hospital for non-life threatening injuries.  Ms. Ward was pronounced dead at the scene by the Allen County Coroner’s Office.

Alcohol/drug impairment is not suspected to be a factor in the crash.  Mr. Oberly and Ms. Ward were both wearing seat belts. 

State Route 309 was closed for approximately two hours.

The Lima Post was assisted on scene by the Allen County Coroner’s Office, Bath Township Fire and EMS, Lafayette Township Fire Department, Perry Township Fire and EMS, Kinstle’s Towing, and Minnich’s Towing.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds motorists to not drive distracted or impaired, and always ensure all occupants of a motor vehicle wear properly adjusted seat belts.

Keep Radon Out of Your Home

January is National Radon Action Month, when Ohio residents are urged to test their homes for radon according to Jason Menchhofer, R.S., Health Department Public Information Officer, Celina, Ohio.

Soil in central Ohio can have high levels of radon gas. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, and it can seep into homes. To help protect residents, the Mercer County Health District offers homeowners free test kits. These easy-to-use home test kits are available at www.uchd.net/radon.

Winter is the best time to test your home. During these colder months, homes are closed up, trapping gases inside and providing more accurate radon readings.

Radon gas results from the decay of naturally occurring uranium found in nearly all soils. Radon cannot be seen, smelled or tasted, making testing the only way to determine if it is in your home. Radon can leak into homes through cracks in foundations, openings around sump pumps and drains, construction joints and cracks in walls.

It is estimated that nearly one home in every 15 in the U.S. has an elevated radon level. Elevated levels have been found in all areas of the country, including central Ohio. Radon is measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L) and the EPA has identified 4 pCi/L as a recommended action level.

Mercer County has been designated as a zone one area on the EPA’s radon map. This means the EPA predicts that homes within our area could have high radon levels. Therefore, it is important all homeowners in our area test for radon gas.  According to the University of Toledo’s Ohio Radon Information System, 582 Mercer County homes have been tested for radon. The maximum reading for Mercer County was 56.1 pCi/L, the minimum Mercer County reading was 0.1 pCi/L, with an average reading of 6.8 pCi/L.   If your home registers high levels of radon, it can be removed from your home through a variety of mitigation systems. According to the EPA, mitigation systems can cost between $600 and $1,200. More information on radon mitigation can be found at www.epa.gov/radon by clicking on the “Publications and Resources link” and viewing the EPA publication Consumer’s Guide to Radon.

To get a test kit, homeowners can log onto www.uchd.net/radon. After completing a short online form, for income-eligible households, a free test kit will be mailed within a few weeks.  Radon test kits are easy to use. Place the small, non-obtrusive test kit in the lowest living level of the home for three to seven days. Then, seal the kit and mail it to the certified laboratory for analysis. Confidential results are available online a few days later or can be mailed to the homeowner within approximately two weeks.  For more information, please visit www.uchd.net/radon or www.epa.gov/radon.

The Rockford American Legion Post 508 recently made a donation to
The Van Wert Pride 16U Softball Team. The team has been a big help with recent turkey shoots and the Legion wanted to show them some appreciation. Thanks girls for your help!

Pictured – Terry McMillen and Terry Joseph both of the American Legion. Les Nichols of Van Wert Pride and Reed Shaffer of the American Legion.

Parkway FFA's Annual Fruit Sale Fundraiser
By: Mecaylah Hesse
Parkway FFA Reporter

In early November, Parkway FFA kicked off their annual fruit sale fundraiser. In this fundraiser, members sold fruit, beef sticks, barbeque sauce, nuts, and the latest item added to the list—cheese. Then on December 3rd, the fruit arrived at Parkway High School all the way from Florida for the members to deliver to those who bought items. The Parkway FFA would like to thank everyone who participated in this fundraiser and bought fruit to support the Parkway FFA chapter.

RAIN: Beatles Tribute On Sale Now at Niswonger

(Van Wert, OH) - The music of The Beatles has transcended generational lines and served as an influential precursor to scores of albums to come. While it may be impossible to see the original group live in concert, it is still possible to enjoy their music live. The Niswonger will see a british invasion Sunday, March 16 with RAIN: A Tribute to The Beatles - The Best of Abbey Road performing two rockin’ showtimes at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM presented by Alexander Bebout and Kitchens Inc.

RAIN - A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES presents The Best of Abbey Road! In celebration of the anniversary of the release of Abbey Road, RAIN will bring the greatest hits to life in addition to all your early favorites. This mind-blowing performance takes you back in time with the legendary foursome delivering a note-for-note theatrical event that is the next best thing to seeing the Beatles. RAIN has mastered every song, gesture and nuance of the legendary foursome.

Experience the world’s most iconic band and celebrate the best of Abbey Road with RAIN – A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES. From the best of Abbey Road, this immersive tribute will take you back to a time when all you needed was love and a little help from your friends.

Along with Presenting Sponsors Alexander Bebout and Kitchens Inc, Supporting Sponsor for RAIN: A Tribute to The Beatles is Kevin M. Laing D.D.S. Season Sponsors for IGNITE 18-19 include Chuck & Karen Koch, StateWide Ford Lincoln, and Van Wert Federal Savings Bank.

Tickets for RAIN: A Tribute to The Beatles can be purchased through the Box Office Mon - Fri, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM at 419-238-6722 and online at NPACVW.ORG.
 

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

 
January 1, 2019
 

HAPPY NEW YEAR
FROM THE PARKWAY INDEPENDENT!

VAN WERT AREA PERFORMING ARTS FOUNDATION NAMES EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

TAFI STOBER TAKES THE HELM OF THE GROWING NPAC

The Van Wert Area Performing Arts Foundation (VWAPAF), along with The Van Wert County Foundation, announce that Tafi Stober was recently named as the next Executive Director of the Van Wert Area Performing Arts Foundation.

Stober has over twenty years of professional and personal pursuits that are rich in brand and marketing management, economic development, and community enrichment. She began promoting the arts in the region as Marketing Director of the Niswonger Performing Arts Center (NPAC) in 2012. She will succeed Paul Hoverman, who is retiring in May of 2019.

Performing Arts Foundation Board Chairman Chuck Koch states, “Paul Hoverman deserves great credit during his tenure as Executive Director for guiding the NPAC business from infancy to a nationally recognized performing arts center. We are going to miss Paul’s wisdom and talent as he identified artists and engaged with their agents to secure their appearances in Van Wert. At the same time, we welcome Tafi Stober and the energy and enthusiasm she brings as our new Executive Director.  We will be in good hands with Tafi. I would encourage our friends and patrons in the coming months to please take time to thank Paul for his years of service to our organization and to welcome Tafi as she assumes her role as our new Executive Director.”

Stober’s hiring will kick off a plan for strategic growth in programming, development, and community outreach. This will build on the successes of the 2018 - 2019 season when plans and fundraising efforts for a backstage annex were unveiled.

“Music ignites Van Wert County with life. We are living in extraordinary days of outstanding artistic opportunity that did not happen by chance. The strong foundation of cultural excellence began with visionaries and benefactors who made possible the arts landscape that the entire region enjoys today. Paul Hoverman’s proven leadership ushered in an era of entertainment that became a backdrop of treasured life moments for thousands of residents and guests of Van Wert.”, states Stober.

Furthering that mission, VWAPAF turns to the future, but not before celebrating the splendor of the present and reveling in the musical and educational opportunities within reach that uplift, educate, and inspire.

Stober continues by sharing, ”These grand musical adventures provide an escape and expand our awareness and appreciation of life and cultures, all the while enriching our own - the value of which aligns with my personal and career purpose. Being appointed as a steward and purveyor of musical opportunity in Van Wert County is a role that I embrace with a humble heart, great joy, and eager anticipation.”

The mission of the Van Wert Area Performing Arts Foundation is to provide a premier venue for a wide variety of performing arts, concerts, lectures, meetings, and special events which inspire, educate, and entertain residents of and visitors to Van Wert County, and to provide an economic catalyst by increasing cultural tourism, creating new jobs, and generating business for the region. The Niswonger Performing Arts Center, Fountain Park Summer Music Series, The Van Wert Area Performance of Handel’s Messiah and The Young Artists Showcase are all products of that mission provided through the Van Wert Area Performing Arts Foundation on behalf of the Van Wert County Foundation.
 

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

CALENDAR OF EVENTS / PUBLIC MEETINGS
Mercer County Homeland Security & Emergency Management

1) EMA Advisory Board Meeting Tuesday, January 8, 2019 EMA Office Celina 12:05 PM

2) LEPC Meeting Thursday, January 10, 2019 Central Services Building Celina 7:30 AM 2nd Floor Conference Room

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

Parkway January 2019 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Brandon Schreiber is the 2018 Lima Post Trooper of the Year

Lima – Ohio State Highway Patrol Trooper Brandon P. Schreiber has been selected 2018 Trooper of the Year at the Lima Post.

The selection of Trooper Schreiber, 23, is in recognition of outstanding service during 2018 at the Lima Post.  Fellow officers stationed at the Lima Post chose Trooper Schreiber based on leadership abilities, professional ethics, courteous treatment of others, enthusiastic work attitude, and cooperation with supervisors, peers, and the public.

Trooper Schreiber is now in contention for the District and State Trooper of the Year Award to be announced at a later date.

Trooper Schreiber joined the Highway Patrol in 2016 and has served at the Lima Post throughout his career.  Trooper Schreiber is originally from Wapakoneta and is a graduate of Wapakoneta High School.  Other Highway Patrol awards received in the past include: the ACE award for proficiency in auto larceny prevention and the Division’s Criminal Patrol award, both in 2018.

Old Bookcase, Jan. 3, 2019, Ice Storm destroys derricks on the Lake

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

Photo caption:  The last Thursday of January 1899,  an Ice Storm destroyed oil derricks on the Reservoir

The February 1, 1899 “Mercer County Standard,” made the following report:

 “High winds and the ice on the last Thursday of January played havoc with the derricks in Lake Mercer.  A number of them were thrown over and in consequence the pumpers at several of the wells have been out of a job since that time.  Matt Alberry, who was out on the lake looking after the Mike Linn lease, was prevented from getting home that night and his family were greatly alarmed.  Matt was a pumper and saw the approach of the storm and realizing his danger made ready to start across the ice to the shore, a distance of about a hundred yards.  Just as he was ready to leave the derrick, he noticed a great cake of ice, a hundred feet or so square, break loose and begin to float from his domicile.  Thinking it a safer plan to take his chances on the floating ice, than on the frame structure, he gave a jump and landed safely upon the ice, which, instead of going his way, began moving from the direction of the shore and into deep water.  It took Mike but a second for him to make up his mind that he would soon be in a perilous position, and jumped from the ice into the water and waded to the shore, the water, for a part of the time, being up to his shoulders.  After reaching the shore, he had near a half a mile before reaching a dwelling.”

On February 18, 1899 “Mercer County Standard,” followed up with more about this storm.

“The Bryson oil lease located in the reservoir just off the Celina shore has been abandoned and the casing of the wells is being pulled.  The abandonment of this lease is due to the great damage done the wells by the recent ice upheaval during the thaw of a few weeks ago, when the high winds on Lake Mercer hurled the ice with such force against the derricks as to do great destruction.

“The casing in the best well was broken off down below the water’s level and the inflow of fresh water soon shut off the oil output.  When this lease was first opened up it gave flattering promise of being one of the best in the field.  People immediately became interested and the owners felt for a time that they had a bonanza within their grasp.  Slowly, but surely, the yield diminished, and the owners do not think it sufficient to justify any expenditure for repairs.”

I thought I would give you an update, about the status of the book about the history of the oil and gas wells of Mercer County, including the lake, and just across adjacent county lines.  The very reason that I began to do research about this topic, for a local history book, was that one of our Members of the Mercer County Historical Society, left a bequest in his Estate, to the Mercer County Historical Society, Inc., with the tag that I should write a local history book about the gas and oil wells.  I received this notice over five years ago.  Just so you understand this Estate, it involved properties in Florida, California, Oregon and Washington.   Somehow the Trustee of this Estate has given the Beneficiaries “mixed messages.”  He wrote us a letter that the Estate would be settled and we would receive a notice about that.  Then, he said something to the effect, that the Estate was “so extensive,” that it would take a long time to settle it.  I do believe that you can read between the lines here.  I will not bother you with the hundreds of pages of correspondence which the Trustee mailed to us, because it hurts my head.  However, I have done research and held interviews, and typed chapter after chapter, for this book.  We were given the word of the Estate that we would receive the property designated for us, but the Trustee finds all kinds of reasons to not settle the Estate.  The publication of this book about the oil and gas well history of Mercer County, Ohio depends upon the funds from that Estate.   Please have patience with me, for those of you who have been providing interviews about the oil and gas wells, to me.  I have many people to check back with.

The Mission of the Mercer County Historical Society is To Preserve Mercer County’s History and To Educate the Public about that History.   As this New Year of 2019 begins, I will share the latest news of the Status of the publication of this book, as well as the great stories of the oil and gas wells, with you.

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

Old Bookcase, Dec. 27. 2018,  Fat’s Stag Bar, Celina
OUR OLD BOOK CASE  By  Joyce L. Alig, President, Mercer County Historical Society, Inc.

Photo caption:  Charles M. (Buzzy) Marley standing outside of Fat’s Stag Bar, located at 117 West Fayette St., Celina, in 1972.   (Photograph courtesy of Bob Marley, Buzzy’s brother.)

Fat’s Stag Bar has become a topic of interest to local historians.  In November, I wrote about the “Men’s Only” Club House, known as Phi Delta Kappa Club House, on the water front at Mercelina Park, at Celina.  I asked about other meeting places for men, and  explained that I did not know about Fat’s Stag Bar’s history.

Bob Marley sent this photograph to me, with the following information. 

“I took this picture of my brother Buzzy Marley in 1972.  At that time, any one between 18 and 21 years would be served 3.2 percent beer.  If you were over 21 years, you would be served 6 percent beer.  On Sunday, no one could buy 6 percent beer, regardless of age.  I don’t know if women could be barred from a stag bar.  Millers bar in St. Marys had a big sign that said, `Tables for Ladies.’  I had heard that in Indiana women could not sit at the bar.”

On Fayette Street, looking west from Fat’s Stag Bar:  Fink’s Radio and TV, Fran’s Barber Shop, unknown, McKirnan Bros. Inc., Fleck’s Pool Hall, and Robbins Leather Shop.

The Mission of the Mercer County Historical Society is To Preserve Mercer County’s History and To Educate the Public about that History.   The Mercer County Citizens living here today, and former Mercer County Citizens, are the local historians who contribute to the preservation of the History of Mercer County, Ohio. 

Before the New Year begins for 2019, I want you readers to consider the local history which you know, in your own memories and/or in old photographs.  Would you please make a small New Year’s Resolution, in your own heart, that in the New Year of 2019, you will share some piece of local history with the Mercer County Historical Society?  Email me or write me a letter; I will look forward to hearing from you.

I invite every person who is interested in local history, to become a Member of the Mercer County Historical Society, Inc.  To become a Member, email me or write me a letter.  I look forward to hearing from you.  Your history is important; each Mercer Countian’s history is important.  You can be proud that you are a Mercer Countian. 

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

 
December 28-31, 2018
 

Join the Rockford Chamber of Commerce

Reminder --- 2019 Rockford Chamber Membership payment is due January 15th.
Contact Lisa Kuhn, Secretary, at   lisa.kuhn@rockfordohio.org

State Patrol Investigating Fatal Crash in Paulding County

Paulding Township - The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Van Wert Post is investigating a fatal crash that occurred at approximately 11:53 P.M. on Tuesday evening, December 25, 2018, on County Road 144 just east of Township Road 83 in Paulding County.

A 2013 Ford Fusion, operated by an unidentified male, was westbound on County Road 144. A Case farm tractor / implement operated by Francis Maag, age 46, of Paulding, Ohio, was also westbound on County Road 144. The Ford struck the rear of the implement and slid off of the right side of the road where it came to final rest in a ditch.

The unidentified driver was trapped within the motor vehicle and required extrication to be freed. The driver was transported by Samaritan to Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana for serious injuries.

The Ford was occupied by three passengers, all who have not been identified at the time of reporting. The front seat passenger, was pronounced dead at the scene by Dr. Joseph Kuhn, Paulding County Coroner. Both rear seat passengers were transported to Paulding Hospital to be treated. Both were then transported to Parkview Regional for additional treatment. Maag was listed as uninjured.

The Van Wert Post was assisted on scene by Paulding Fire and EMS, Antwerp Fire and EMS, Samaritan, Paulding County Sheriff’s Office, and R and O Towing.

Alcohol is believed to be a factor. The crash remains under investigation.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol encourages drivers and occupants to always where their seat belts and never drive distracted or impaired.

81-0447-63

State Patrol Investigating Fatal Crash in Paulding County

*UPDATE – 12/27/2018

Paulding Township - The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Van Wert Post is investigating a fatal crash that occurred at approximately 11:53 P.M. on Tuesday evening, December 25, 2018, on County Road 144 just east of Township Road 83 in Paulding County.

A 2013 Ford Fusion, operated by Joel Molina, age 19, of Paulding, Ohio, was westbound on County Road 144. A Case farm tractor / implement operated by Francis Maag, age 46, of Paulding, Ohio, was also westbound on County Road 144. The Ford struck the rear of the implement and slid off of the right side of the road where it came to final rest in a ditch.

Molina was trapped within the motor vehicle and required extrication to be freed. The driver was transported by Samaritan to Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana for serious injuries.

The Ford was occupied by three passengers, Ever Alvarez Gomez, age 25, Ranulfo Lopez Perez, age 23, and Victor Alvarez Hernandez, age 20, all of Paulding, Ohio. Hernandez was pronounced dead at the scene by Dr. Joseph Kuhn, Paulding County Coroner. Both Alvarez Gomez, and Lopez Perez were transported to Paulding Hospital to be treated. Both were then transported to Parkview Regional for additional treatment. Maag was listed as uninjured.

The Van Wert Post was assisted on scene by Paulding Fire and EMS, Antwerp Fire and EMS, Samaritan, Paulding County Sheriff’s Office, and R and O Towing.

Alcohol is believed to be a factor. The crash remains under investigation.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol encourages drivers and occupants to always where their seat belts and never drive distracted or impaired.

81-0447-63

Parkway School Board Meetings Coming Up
The Parkway Local Schools Board of Education have set the below for January meetings.  Both meetings will be held in the Community Room.

Organizational Meeting                      Tuesday, January 8 @ 6:30 p.m.

Parkway Local Board of Education Special Meeting 

The Parkway Local Board of Education held a special meeting on Friday, December 28, 2018 at 4:00 p.m. in the community room.  The purpose of the meeting was to vote on the football bleacher project. 

Board members approved a bid from Dant Clayton Corporation of Louisville, KY to replace the Home-Team Bleachers and the Press box.

Demolition and removal of the old materials, concrete foundation and paths as well as electrical work and a fence are included, The bid was $482,275. Although not the low bid submitted, it was the lowest complete bid according to Jeanne Osterfeld, superintendent. Local companies may do some of the work.

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey Announces Drug Arrests
Celina, Ohio – December 26, 2018 Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced 11 individuals were arrested and taken to the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility on drug indictments, those indictments included 32 felony counts.  An additional 13 individuals already incarcerated in the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility were served indictments which include 22 felony counts, and 2 misdemeanor counts.

There are 3 additional persons indicted who are currently incarcerated in other Correctional Institutions, who have been indicted on 10 felony counts. 

There are 3 additional persons that have been issued summons on indictments for a total of 6 felony counts.  The names of the persons currently incarcerated in prisons, and those indictments issued as summons are not being released until they have been served.

Deputies are also looking for an additional 7 individuals who have been indicted that are currently at large.  Those 7 indictments include a total of 12 felony counts.

Officers during the arrests recovered drug paraphernalia, and suspected cocaine and methamphetamine.

These charges are the result of investigations by the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, Grand Lake Task Force, and the Celina Police Department. Many of the charges and arrests are results of tips from the community.    The Celina Police Department assisted deputies with these apprehensions.  

SERVED IN JAIL:
Kelli J. Rutter, Age 22, Care of the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility.  3 Counts of Trafficking in Heroin, Felonies of the 5th degree.

Joshua E. Kittle, Age 35, Care of the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility.  1 Count of Possession of Heroin, a Felony of the 5th degree, 1 Count of Tampering with Evidence, a felony of the 3rd degree, and Possession of Drug Abuse Instruments, a Misdemeanor of the 1st degree.

Paige K. King, Age 20, Care of the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility.  1 Count of Aggravated Possession of Drugs, a Felony of the 5th degree. 

Angel Storck, Age 29 Care of the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility. 1 Count of Aggravated Possession of Drugs, a Felony of the 5th degree.

Deven R. Dugger, Age 22,  Care of the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility. 1 Count of Burglary, a felony of the 3rd degree, 1 Count of theft from a Person in a Protected Class, a Felony of the 4th degree. 

Damion J. Post, Age 32, Care of the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility.  1 Count of Possession of Cocaine, a Felony of the 5th Degree, 1 County of Possession of a Fentanyl Related Compound, a Felony of 5th Degree, and 1 Count of Possession of a Drug Abuse Instruments, a Misdemeanor of the 1st degree.

Gregory S. Edwards, Age 52, Care of the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility, 1 Count of Aggravated Possession of Drugs, a Felony of the 5th degree.

Kiah Z. Helmer, Age 22, Care of the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility, 1 Count of Possession of LSD, a Felony of the 5th Degree, 1 Count of Aggravated Possession of drugs, a Felony of the 5th degree.

Orlando C. Candelaria Jr., Care of the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility.  1 Count of Trafficking in a Counterfeit Controlled Substance, a Felony of the 4th Degree, 1 Count of Aggravated Possession of Drugs, a Felony of the 5th Degree.

Charles J. Tester, Age 30, Care of the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility.  1 Count of Aggravated Possession of Drugs, a Felony of the 5th Degree.

Billie J. Huston, Age 37, Care of the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility. 1 Count of Aggravated Possession of Drugs, a Felony of the 5th Degree.

Jeremy E. Stineback, Age 40, Care of the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility. 4 Counts of Aggravated Possession of Drugs, Felonies of the 4th Degree, 1 Count of Aggravated Possession of Drugs, a Felony of the 5th Degree.

Kelly R. Hooks, Age 39, Care of the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility.  1 Count of Aggravated Possession of Drugs, a Felony of the 4th degree, and 1 Count of Trafficking in Cocaine, a Felony of the 5th Degree.

ARRESTED:

Christopher W. Anderson, Age 40, 322 Fayette Street, Celina, Ohio.  1 Count of Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs, a Felony of 3rd Degree.

Michael H. Toler, Age 50, 306 West Summit Street, Celina, Ohio. 1 Count of Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs, a Felony of the 4th Degree, and 1 Count of Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs, a Felony of the 3rd Degree.

Tina K. Hall, Age 52, 1100 Meyer Road, Celina, Ohio. 4 Counts of Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs, Felonies of the 3rd Degree.

Craig Hall, Age 54, 1100 Meyer Road, Celina, Ohio.  4 Counts of Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs, Felonies of the 3rd Degree.

Roy M. Schmidt II, Age 35, 616 North Walnut Street, Celina, Ohio.  2 Counts of Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs, Felonies of the 3rd Degree.

James D. Thompson, Age 45, 217 Parkview Drive, Celina, Ohio. 2 Counts of Trafficking in Drugs, Felonies of the 3rd Degree, 1 Count of Trafficking in Hashish, a felony of the 5th degree.

Nathan J. Watkins, Age 25, 637 Hoying Street, Celina, Ohio. 4 Counts of Trafficking in Drugs, Felonies of the 4th Degree, 3 Counts of Trafficking in Heroin, Felonies of the 5th Degree, 2 Counts of Trafficking in Cocaine, Felonies of the 5th Degree.

Jesse A. Williams, Age 35, 1400 West Market Street, Celina, Ohio. 1 Count of Trafficking in Counterfeit Controlled Substances, 1 Count of Aggravated Trafficking in Drugs, a Felony of the 4th Degree, 1 Count of Trafficking in Cocaine, a Felony of the 5th Degree.  Mr. Williams was also served with an outstanding misdemeanor warrant for child support.

Maria A. McBride, Age 41, 710 Devonshire, Celina, Ohio.  2 Counts of Trafficking in Drugs, Felonies of the 4th Degree.

Rebecca K. Springer, Age 58, 322 West Fayette Street, Celina, Ohio.  1 Count of Trafficking in Drugs, a felony of the 3rd Degree.

Alissa R. Tebbe, age 25, 408 E. Main Street, Coldwater, Ohio. 1 Count of Possession of Cocaine, a felony in the 5th degree.

*** Joshua P. Bernholt, Age 30, 915 Fleck Ave, Celina, Ohio. 1 Count of Aggravated Possession of Drugs, a Felony of the 5thDegree, 1 Count of Possession of Drug Abuse Instruments, a Misdemeanor of the 1st degree.

Mr. Bernholt turned himself into the Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday evening.  Mr. Bernholt was the 12th individual arrested.

.

 
December 26-27, 2018
 

CONGRATULATIONS to Tom Beahrs on his retirement.
THANK YOU for all your years of hard work and dedication to the Village of Rockford!!

McDonalds - Celina Grand Re-Opening Ribbon Cutting event on January 8th at 5pm

 
December 24-25, 2018
 

Congratulations to Chris and Tracy Heitkamp on winning the 2018 Best decorated house contest for the village of Rockford.

Merry Christmas from Sheila and Stacie at The Parkway Independent!

 
December 22-23, 2018
 

Click here for Monty's Facebook Link

Over $1,200 in prizes have been donated so far to the winner!

 
December 20-21, 2018
 

Parkway Middle School students recently held a food drive to benefit the Parkway Local Food Bank in hopes to aid families in our community during the holiday season. The students had a goal of 1,500 items and exceeded that goal!!!! In just over a week, Parkway Middle School students in grades 5-8 collected 1,663 items to donate. The Middle School Student council would like to thank the students and families that donated items for the food drive. Please find the attached picture including Karla Butler from the  Parkway Local Food Pantry along with members of the Middle School student council with the 1,663 items collected.

Parkway Panther Athlete Bailey Strickler, on December 5, 2018, with her family by her side, signed to play softball at Huntington University. Photo by Pat Agler – thanks for sharing!

Bailey Strickler has signed her letter of intent to further her education and softball career at Huntington. She is the daughter of Bryan & Karen Strickler. Bailey plans to major in graphics design and marketing while at Huntington. Bailey has been a starter on the softball team since she was a freshman. She has been an integral part of the Panther softball team that went to back to back regional appearances the past two seasons. Bailey was named 1st team all-MAC, first team all-district, Honorable mention all-state, The Daily Standard dream team and the all-mercer county team in 2018. Bialey has tied the school record for most hits in a single season, she had a batting average of .490, scored 45 runs and stole 11 bases as a junior.

 
December 18-19, 2018
 

Parkway FFA Attends the 91st National FFA Convention and Expo
By: Kiersten Roehm, Parkway FFA Historian
Submitted by Mecaylah Hesse, Parkway FFA Reporter

On Tuesday, October 23rd, the Parkway FFA Chapter joined the Lincolnview, Crestview, and Wayne Trace Chapters to attend the 91st National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis, Indiana. National FFA Convention is a time for all chapters in the nation to gather. While at the convention, there are sessions that members and guests may attend to listen to the National Officer Team speak. Keynote speakers as well as the National FFA Band and Chorus join the officers on stage to speak and perform. On Tuesday, the four FFA chapters went to Universal Lettering in Van Wert, Wilson Football Factory in Ada, The National Museum of the U.S. Airforce outside of Dayton, and Jungle Jim’s International Market in Fairfield. At Universal Lettering, FFA members watched as the very jackets worn by FFA members everywhere were made from start to finish. At the Wilson Football Factory, FFA members watched the process of high school through professional level footballs being made. This process takes many different stations to complete, starting with the cowhide and ending with an inspection of all footballs. The National Museum of the U.S. Airforce allowed the students to view many previously used aircrafts in the many wars fought by the U.S. military. Jungle Jim’s International Market was a great experience for the FFA students. They were introduced to new foods that aren’t commonly sold in their respective counties. Wednesday included a tour at Cargill, a grain elevator. At this grain elevator, the grain is shipped off in barges on the river that runs alongside the property. The Buck Creek Winery was another stop for the FFA members. At this location, members were invited to go to the vineyard to see the many types of grapes. Once seen, members listened as the owner of the winery went through the wine making process. Later in the night was the Garth Brooks concert that many had been looking forward to! The next two days were full of speakers, new knowledge from the booths set up, and new friends from across the nation. The 2018 National Convention trip is one that these students won’t forget.

Pictured:

Jungle Jims- Tessa Thatcher (left) and Madison Kroeger (right)

Cargill- (Left to Right)- Sophia Miller, Grace Etgen, Ansley Burtch, and Abigail Browning.

Buck Creek Winery Vineyard- Gracyn Temple

Gracie Furnish's Retiring Address- National Eastern Region Vice President of 2017-2018, Gracie Furnish, gave her retiring address about being an individual and there only being ONE you. (The theme of this year's national convention was "Just One")

Click on smaller thumbnails below to enlarge.

Old Bookcase, Dec. 20. 2018 Preserving Our Christmas Heritage
OUR OLD BOOK CASE  By  Joyce L. Alig, President, Mercer County Historical Society, Inc.

Photo caption:  The old image of Santa Claus at Christmas has returned again.  I will share with you, that I still love the rich sound of the old upright pianos and listening to the ones singing the old Christmas Hymns.  Christmas hymns bring joy to my heart.

Christmas is back!  If Scrooge were here, he might say, “Bah! Humbug!”  Maybe he had good reason to be grumpy?  How many of you readers might agree with Scrooge some days?  But, that feeling does not last for long.  Since you are from Mercer County, you put on a smile and find good reason to value your friends and what you have. 

What if Christmas were “not back?”  What would you miss?  I would not miss being inundated with nonsense emails on my computer.   In fact, I would not miss the telemarketers either.

However, when the chips were down and decisions had to be made, even Scrooge and Grinch found their way to honor the good and generous side of Christmas.  Scrooge and Grinch are characters of fiction. So many Christmas stories and movies of fiction are like fairy tales and everything comes out for the good by the time that Christmas  arrives,  Does this match real life behavior at Christmas time?

There is a sense of joy at Christmas time.  Without realizing it, we remember our childhood happiness of seeing the first snow and making snowmen.  When we hear the sleigh bells ring, just for a second, our childhood memories of Santa’s sleigh come slipping back.  When we see the children laughing when they are decorating their Christmas tree, we chuckle to ourselves.  When we are able to help another person, whether throughout the year, or just at Christmas time, we smile to ourselves.  When we share a dinner with family or friends at Christmas time, we get that feeling, known as the Christmas Spirit.

The Christmas season and the sense of joy at Christmas time is a strong part of our Mercer County Heritage.  This sense of Christmas happiness will continue to be with us, as long as we honor it.  The happiness of Christmas will only be lost, if we let it be lost.

The Mission of the Mercer County Historical Society is To Preserve Mercer County’s History and To Educate the Public about that History.   Thus, our Historical Society members ask you to help preserve this rich heritage of honoring Christmas  and its meaning. 

Since I cannot visit each of you to wish you a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year, I will send you a warm greeting from our Members of the Mercer County Historical Society.  We care about your Mercer County Heritage and we care about you.  Sing a Christmas hymn and appreciate your blessings.

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

Rockford Club Meets in November

The Twenty-First Century Club members met on November 27, 2018 at the home of Rozann Maurer in Mercer with Karla Butler, president and Toni Fisher vice-president presiding. The Club theme for the year is Remarkable Women.

A short meeting was completed with the reading of the minutes from October and the treasurer’s report. Role call was where members get their news for the day. Members were reminded to continue to bring items for the food pantry. Christmas cards were signed and sent to Honorary members.

President Karla Butler then mentioned a remarkable woman named Dame Cicely Mary Saunders, a famous Social Worker and Doctor in the field of palliative medicine – the first steps toward HOSPICE care.

Valerie Fritzinger presented her program on journalist Barbara Walters. Her father booked acts for clubs and she met many movie starts. In college she majored in English and then began working in television writing the news and later wrote the weather.  She rose in a time when women were discriminated against and competed with Walter Cronkite for the spotlight. She interviewed movie stars and famous people for 20/20 Special Reports and worked on the View for 16 years. Her favorite interview was with Katherine Hepburn.

Ann Gage reported on the Remarkable Woman, Grace Hopper, an admiral in the U.S. Navy and the first female computer programmer. Grace graduated from Vassar College with a degree in Physics and Mathematics. She went on to get a master’s degree in Mathematics from Vassar and became a Rear Admiral after receiving her Computer Programming degree from Yale.  She invented programs and compilers. Her famous invention was the Universal Automatic Computer. She retired at age 80 from the Navy. She was the woman who reported the first actual case of a bug in the programming – a real moth wedged in the computer.

A delicious cake was served by Rozann Maurer.

The next meeting will be held on January 22, 2019 7 PM, at the Café Room at Rockford United Methodist Church.  Contact Sheila Baltzell at 419-733-3326 if you’d like to learn more about this club.

 
December 15-17, 2018
 

St.. Paul's United Church of Christ, Oregon and Wabash Roads,
10 AM, Sunday, December 23, 2018 Worship Service
6 PM, Monday, December 24, 2018 Candlelight and Music Service

Rockford United Methodist Church, Franklin St. in Rockford,
Sun., December 23 • 8:30 AM & 10:30 AM Worship Experience
Mon., December  24 • 7 & 10pm Candlelight Christmas Eve Service

St. John Lutheran Church, Hopewell Township and Zion Lutheran Church, Chattanooga
The congregations of St. John Lutheran Church, Hopewell Township and Zion Lutheran Church, Chattanooga extend an invitation to join for a candlelight Christmas Eve worship service.  The service will be held on Monday, December 24th at Zion Lutheran Church, Chattanooga.  The service, led by Pastor Karen Tamorria, will begin at 7:30 PM with pre-service music beginning at 7:15 PM.  The worship service will include Holy Communion as well as special music.  Please plan to join us as we celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.  Zion Lutheran Church is located at the intersection of State Route 49 and Tama Road in Chattanooga.

Christmas Dinner Served at Rockford Shane's Park Building
A free Christmas Dinner, all homemade, will be served from 10:30 AM to 1 PM on December 25, 2018 in Celebration of Jesus Christ's birth. Members of Rockford United Methodist Church prepare and serve this delicious dinner. Come and join them! Everyone is welcome!

Mt. Tabor Christmas Service
Sunday December 23 at 7 PM

Parkway FFA Members Participate in the State Agricultural Technology and Mechanical Systems CDE

By: Mecaylah Hesse
Parkway FFA Reporter

On December 7th, 2018, Parkway FFA members Noah Riley, Nick Riley, Colton Kraner, and David Sheets traveled to the Ohio State University to participate in the State Agricultural Technology and Mechanical Systems CDE. For Parkway’s team to qualify for this contest, they had to place in the top 10 of 28 teams based on the online test. Once they qualified, they placed 4th out of 10 teams in the competition itself where members had to wire electricity, calibrate a fertilizer sprayer, build a rafter, and identify plumbing parts. As individuals, Nick Riley placed 7th, Colton Kraner placed 12th, Noah Riley placed 15th, and David Sheets placed 20th out of 40 participants. 

Pictured- (Left to right) Nick Riley, Colton Kraner, Noah Riley, and David Sheets

Christmas Gift Suggestion - Barn Quilts for Sale in Rockford - Bicentennial Project

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

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey Reports Arrests as a Result of the HIT Team   

A traffic stop was conducted in the 700 block of Echo Street in Celina at 3:37 PM December 13, 2018.  A K-9 from the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office indicated the presence of narcotics, and a search was done on the vehicle.   Drug paraphernalia and a baggie with white crystal like substance were located in the vehicle. The crystal like substance was field tested, and was positive for Methamphetamine.  Taken into custody were the vehicle’s two occupants:

Angel A Storck, age 29 from Celina, was arrested and taken to the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility.  She was booked into the jail for Possession of Drugs, a felony of the 5th degree.  Judge Speelman set her bond at $50,000.00, subject to 10%.

Matthew J. Broerman, age 28 from rural St. Henry, was arrested and taken to the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility.  He was booked into the jail for Possession of Drugs, a felony of the 5th degree.  Judge Speelman set his bond at $50,000.00 subject to 10%.

HIT also developed information and conducted a subsequent investigation that led to a search warrant and additional arrests unrelated to the above traffic stop.  Deputies applied for and received a search warrant for a residence located at 314 Stella Street in Celina.  The search warrant was executed at 7:45 PM on December 13, 2018.  Numerous drug paraphernalia items were found throughout the residence.  Suspected drugs which include marijuana, crystal meth, and other substances were also located throughout the residence. Finally, Officers recovered a loaded Ruger LCP 380 caliber handgun found inside the residence.  Taken into custody was:

Paige K. King, age 20 from 314 Stella Street, Celina, was arrested and taken to the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility.  She was booked into the jail for Possession of Drugs, a felony of the 5th degree.  Judge Speelman set bond at 50,000.00 subject to 10%.

Both cases will be referred to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office for review.  The HIT team is comprised of Deputies and Officers from the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, Celina PD, and Coldwater PD.  These incidents remain under investigation.

Columbus Grove Football Coach, Andy Schafer, Honored with John Reed Leadership Award

By Jennifer Keat-Beck

It is one thing to lead young men through plays on the football field. It’s another thing to inspire and encourage them as they mature in life. Those are just a few of the reasons behind this year’s selection of the John Reed Leadership Award.

WTLW-TV 44 and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes are excited to announce Andy Schafer as the recipient of the 2018 John Reed Leadership Award. Schafer is head football coach at Columbus Grove High School. The award is given annually to a local football coach exemplifying Christian character and moral strength, creating a legacy both on and off the field.

Coach Schafer accepted the award from TV-44 Sports Anchor, Andy Lynch, and from the 2017 Award Winner, Spencerville Head Coach Chris Sommers, live during the Sports Report Friday, December 7.

“I can’t think of a more deserving person to receive this award.” said Sommers during the award presentation.  “He helps so many. After the game, no matter what, he is humble overall a great guy, remaining encouraging to the players regardless of the outcome. He is one of the most positive people I know, and his heart’s in the right place. It’s a guy you can really look up to. I look for guys like this in my career- people I can look up to.”

Coach Schafer recognizes that a key to effective coaching is family commitment. “This is really a family thing for my wife and kids. We really pour ourselves into the team.  I’ve felt it to be a mission, to do what I can to build up young men [to grow into responsible young adults.]”

He also sees coaching as more than just focusing on the sport, this past season focusing strongly on positive character and respect of others. “You always try to teach your kids character, but this season I really felt it was important to show character. That’s where I got the idea to invite a different coach this year to talk to the team, and I had Coach [Chris] Sommers come talk to the team.  And then he asked me to come speak to his team. When we got into the season, and our teams went to battle, and it was great to see how our players respected him and his players respected me.”

Above all, Coach Schafer recognizes the importance of faith in Christ.  “That’s everything for me. It’s a key to living life. It’s amazing to see not only Jesus impacting your life, but how you can impact others. I’m going to live my life as a man of God, as a believer, and see what happens, how others will respond.”

The John Reed Leadership Award was created to foster Godly principles in coaches.  Founded by Tom Giesken, it honors longtime Coldwater coach, John Reed.

WTLW TV-44 is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization governed by a 10-member board of directors. The viewer-supported station reaches 220,000 homes and through WOSN, offers 24-hour coverage of local high school sports within a 40 mile radius of the station. 

Mercer County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society to Meet
The Mercer County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society will meet Sunday, January 6th at 2:00 pm at the Richardson Bretz Building 119 West Fulton St., Celina.

Our guest speaker will be Father David Hoying. Father David will be presenting, “The Ship Everhard and the Oldenburg Mayflower” concerning the passengers and the settling of Egypt, Ohio.

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

Our Home Family Resource Center Receives Grant from CPPS Heritage Mission Fund

CELINA – The CPPS Heritage Mission Fund has awarded a grant to Our Home Family Resource Center’s Direct Services & Referral program. The CPPS Fund was created by the Sisters of the Precious Blood in Dayton, Ohio to support groups and organizations that are responding to community needs in a way consistent with Precious Blood values and spirituality.

“This grant recognizes the Direct Services program’s commitment to providing Mercer County residents with hope in the midst of crisis”, explained Deb Simon-Heinfeld, coordinator of marketing and development at Our Home “and the funds from this CPPS grant will lend a great measure of hope to folks who are going through times of frustration, fear, and insecurity.”

According to Simon-Heinfeld, people who contact Direct Services for assistance meet with a family support specialist to evaluate the situation and to create a plan to meet their specific needs. The family support specialist may provide folks with vouchers for emergency financial assistance and/or refer them to partner agencies and programs for other forms of support that may be needed to stabilize the situation.

Over the past year, Direct Services staff provided assistance in over 1500 situations and distributed tens of thousands of dollars in financial support to families in need. This includes help for folks facing eviction or utility shut-off, unexpected home repairs or prescription costs, and those who needed help getting to medical appointments. In addition to that, program staff coordinated and administrated Mercer County’s back-to-school supply drive, winter coat drive, and Angel Tree project.

Our Home also offers a food pantry stocked with canned fruits and vegetables, meat, pastas, soup, milk, and other assorted items including personal care items such as detergent, soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, and toilet paper.

Direct Services & Referral Program hours are 8:30am-12:00pm & 1:00pm-4:30pm Monday through Thursday; the food pantry operates Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30am-12:00pm and 1:00pm-3:00pm.

Our Home is located at 117 W. Fayette Street in Celina. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the organization’s work is possible with resources provided through monetary and in-kind donations from private individuals, groups, organizations, and corporations and money awarded through grants such as CPPS Heritage Mission Fund.

If you are interested in supporting Our Home but are uncertain about our specific programs and needs, visit www.ourhomefrc.com or call 419-586-4663

Parkway FFA Participates in Job Interview CDE
by Mecaylah Hesse,  Parkway FFA Reporter

On November 6th, 2018 Parkway FFA members Dennis Leighner, Raegan Roehm, Clara Hellwarth, Abi Browning, Kiersten Roehm, and Madison Kroeger participated in the sub-district job interview CDE at Paulding High School. In the division one competition, Freshman Raegan Roehm placed 3rd and Dennis Leighner placed 5th out of 7 participants. In the division two competition, sophomore Clara Hellwarth placed 1st and Abi Browning placed 4th out of 6 participants. In the division three competition, junior Kiersten Roehm placed 3rd out of 9 participants. Finally, senior Madison Kroeger placed 7th out of 10 participants in the division four competition. Parkway’s only district-qualifying member was sophomore Clara Hellwarth who proceeded to participate in the division two district competition where she placed second, but did not qualify for state. 

Local High School Choirs Sing in the TV-44 Studio & Support The Lima Rescue Mission
By Jennifer Keat-Beck 

25 area high school choirs took part in TV-44’s annual Holiday Music Festival studio production this month. Portions of choral selections will appear on TV-44 throughout the month of December and in full, December 24 and 25 (full schedule listed below.)

In addition to singing Christmas songs in the TV-44 studio, the students also had an opportunity to give back to the community. $484.60 in cash was donated by the choirs, to be given to The Lima Rescue Mission, a non profit organization that has been helping poor and homeless men since 1906 .  4 boxes of donated food items were gifted to The Church at Allentown Food Pantry.

Schools participating in the 2018 Holiday Music Festival are: Allen East, Arcadia, Arlington, Bath, Bluffton, Botkins, Columbus Grove,  Delphos Jefferson, Delphos St. John, Elida, Kalida, Liberty Benton, Leipsic, Lincolnview, New Bremen, New Knoxville, Ottawa-Glandorf, Pandora, Perry, Shawnee, Spencerville, Temple Christian, Wapakoneta, Waynesfield, and Van Wert.

The 2018 Holiday Music Festival is a locally produced Christmas concert featuring Christmas music sung by area high school choirs. Air dates and times: December 24: 4pm, and  December 25, 7am and 12 noon. Selections can also be viewed at wtlw.com.

WTLW TV-44 is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization governed by a 10-member board of directors. The viewer-supported station reaches 220,000 homes and through WOSN, offers 24-hour coverage of local high school sports within a 40+ mile radius of the station.  TV-44 desires to partner with area high schools as a positive opportunity to support local youth and the arts.

Ohio City to Sponsor a Holiday Lights Contest for Van Wert County Residents
Ohio City is having their annual county-wide "Holiday Lights
Contest" open to all Van Wert County residents.
The deadline for entries are due on the Facebook Page by December 27th and voting will be done on New Years Eve.

Country Legend’s Travis Tritt on Acoustic Tour

Country legend Travis Tritt will come to Van Wert with a six-string in his hands on Saturday, March 2, 2019 at 7:30PM presented by 1st Federal of Van Wert and tickets can be purchased Wednesday, December 5.

Travis Tritt's hits include: It’s All About the Money, Where Corn Don’t Grow, I’m Gonna Be Somebody, Lord Have Mercy on the Working Man, Country Club, Here’s a Quarter, Best of Intentions, Help Me Hold On, Whiskey Ain’t Workin, Anymore, It’s a Great Day to Be Alive, T-R-O-U-B-L-E, Modern Day Bonnie and Clyde.

Tickets for Travis Tritt can be purchased through the Box Office Mon - Fri, 10am - 5pm at 419-238-6722.

Handel’s MESSIAH Returns to First UM Church- Van Wert

A First United Methodist Church Christmas tradition returns Sunday evening, December 9, 2018 at 7:00 pm when Handel’s Messiah will be performed in its ornately decorated sanctuary.  First United Methodist Church is teaming with The Van Wert County Foundation to help present this beloved Oratorio depicting the story of Jesus’ birth through dramatic music. 

This year’s performance features three soloists from the state of Tennessee and one from Eastern Ohio.  Three of the four have never sung at First United Methodist Church before and are looking forward to sharing with the community.

Soprano, Jennifer Barnett Harrell; Mezzo Soprano, Sara Snider Schone; Tenor, Rev. Daniel Doty and Bass, Perry will sing.

The Van Wert performance will be with a professional chamber orchestra consisting of musicians from throughout Ohio and Michigan.  Paul Hoverman, FUMC Chancel Choir Director will be conducting and joined with a chorus of 60 volunteer singers from throughout the region.  They have been rehearsing since the beginning of November.

Doors to the sanctuary will be open to the public at 6:00 pm.  There is no admission fee but a free-will offering will be accepted.  Seating is first come-first served.

Bella's Italian Grill Celebrates 20th Anniversary
The Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce and Bella's Italian Grille
recently co-hosted a Business After Hours to welcome area businesses to help
Bella's celebrate their 20th Anniversary. Attendees enjoyed door prizes and
delicious food and drinks.  Bella's originally opened on Main Street in
Celina in 1998 and moved to their current location on West Bank Road in
2002. Bella's offers a full menu with catering options as well.  Owner Julie
Fleck is very community minded and is constantly looking at new ways to
serve the community.  Bella's has also been expanding their catering
services as well with the addition of a catering truck.  Catering is
something Bella's has been doing for some time though.  Congratulations to
Bella's Italian Grille for 20 years in Celina.

 
December 13-14, 2018
 

St.. Paul's United Church of Christ, Oregon and Wabash Roads,
10 AM, Sunday, December 23, 2018 Worship Service
6 PM, Monday, December 24, 2018 Candlelight and Music Service

Rockford United Methodist Church, Franklin St. in Rockford,
Sun., December 23 • 8:30 AM & 10:30 AM Worship Experience
Mon., December  24 • 7 & 10pm Candlelight Christmas Eve Service

St. John Lutheran Church, Hopewell Township and Zion Lutheran Church, Chattanooga
The congregations of St. John Lutheran Church, Hopewell Township and Zion Lutheran Church, Chattanooga extend an invitation to join for a candlelight Christmas Eve worship service.  The service will be held on Monday, December 24th at Zion Lutheran Church, Chattanooga.  The service, led by Pastor Karen Tamorria, will begin at 7:30 PM with pre-service music beginning at 7:15 PM.  The worship service will include Holy Communion as well as special music.  Please plan to join us as we celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.  Zion Lutheran Church is located at the intersection of State Route 49 and Tama Road in Chattanooga.

Christmas Dinner Served at Rockford Shane's Park Building
A free Christmas Dinner, all homemade, will be served from 10:30 AM to 1 PM on December 25, 2018 in Celebration of Jesus Christ's birth. Members of Rockford United Methodist Church prepare and serve this delicious dinner. Come and join them! Everyone is welcome!

Parkway Panthers Weekly Update for December 17 – January 5

By A.D. Matt Triplett

December 17:
JH Girls Basketball vs. Antwerp, 5:00 p.m. Football Concessions
JH Boys @ Adams Central, 5:00 p.m.
9th Boys Basketball vs. Minster, 6:00 p.m.
 

December 18:
HS Girls Basketball vs. Waynesfield-Goshen, 6:00 p.m. Softball Concessions
JH Girls Basketball @ Coldwater, 5:00 p.m.
 

December 19:No Athletic Events Scheduled
 

December 20: HS Girls Basketball @ Celina, 6:00 p.m.
JH Boys Basketball vs. Spencerville, 5:00 p.m. Softball Concessions
 

December 21:
No Athletic Events Scheduled

December 22:
Varsity Wrestling Invitational, 9:00 a.m. Football Concessions
Boys Bowling vs. Minster, @ Coldwater 9:45 a.m.
Girls Bowling vs. Minster, @ Coldwater 1:00 p.m.
HS Boys Basketball @ St. Mary’s, 6:00 p.m.


December 27:
HS Girls vs. South Adams, 6:00 p.m. Baseball Concessions
9th Boys Basketball vs. Coldwater, 6:00 p.m. (PLAYED IN JH GYM)
 

December 28:
HS Boys Basketball @ North Central Tournament
 

December 29:
HS Boys Basketball @ North Central Tournament
Boys Bowling vs. Fort Loramie, 9:45 a.m.
Girls Bowling vs. Fort Loramie, 1:00 p.m.
 

January 3:
HS Girls Basketball vs. Coldwater, 6:00 p.m. (Only 2 JV Quarters) Track Concessions
JH Boys Basketball vs. Coldwater, 5:00 p.m. Baseball Concessions
HS Wrestling @ Coldwater, 6:30 p.m.
 

January 4:
HS Boys Basketball @ Coldwater, 6:00 p.m.
 

January 5:
JH Wrestling @ Spencerville, 10:00 a.m.
HS Boys Bowling vs. Russia, @ Union City, 9:45 a.m.
HS Girls Bowling vs. Russia, @ Union City, 1:00 p.m.
HS Boys Basketball @ Lehman Catholic, 6:00 p.m.
 

Parkway Panthers Weekly Update for December 10 – 15, 2018

By A.D. Matt Triplett

December 11:
JH Girls Basketball vs. Fort Recovery, 5:00 p.m. Baseball Concessions
Varsity Wrestling @ Jay County, 6:00 p.m.
 

December 12:
No Athletic Events Scheduled
 

December 13:
HS Girls Basketball @ Fort Recovery, 6:00 p.m.
JH Boys Basketball @ Fort Recovery, 5:00 p.m.
 

December 14:
HS Boys Basketball vs. Fort Recovery, 6:00 p.m.
 

December 15:
Varsity Wrestling @ Edgerton, 9:00 a.m.
Boys Bowling vs. Marion Local, @ Minster, 9:45 a.m.
Girls Bowling vs. Marion Local, @ Minster, 1:00 p.m.
HS Girls Basketball @ Antwerp, 1:00 p.m.
JH Girls @ South Adams, 10:00 a.m.
JH Boys @ South Adams, 1:00 p.m.
 

REMINDER

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday, December 14, 2018

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Friday, December 14, 2018 for the game against Ft. Recovery.

David and Marcia Krogman; Carrie Heck; Galen and Tonya Hesse; Nikki and Alan Barna; Jason and Jennifer Fullenkamp; Katherine Abrovmavich; Ben and Leah Etgen; and Ronald and Sandra Jacobs.

Please arrive by 5:00 PM.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345.  Thank you for your help! 

 
December 11-12, 2018
 

Custom One-of-a-King Henry Golden 357 Mag to be Raffled

The Rockford Bicentennial Committee is sponsoring a gun raffle to
help offset costs for the Bicentennial Celebration in 2020.   The 
gun is a Custom One-of-a-King Henry Golden 357 Mag.  
Only 300 tickets to be sold.  $10 donation. 
Drawing on April 1, 2019.  Tickets available at the 
Rockford Village office or from committee members.

The next Bicentennial Committee meeting will be held on
January 7th at 7 pm - Village Office and Museum.  
Helpers are needed ! 

Several Articles by Parkway FFA Reporter
Mecaylah Hesse

Parkway FFA's Molly Irma Donation

In September 2018, the Parkway FFA donated $1500 to Dayton’s Children’s hospital in honor of Molly Irma Kramer. Molly’s father, Kevin Kramer, is a junior high English teacher at Parkway. The FFA wanted to contribute in any way they could to support the Kramer family. In Mr. Kevin Kramer’s description of Molly Irma’s condition, he stated,  

“Molly was born on November 27th, 2017.  Upon birth Molly was rushed to Dayton Children’s Hospital because she was unable to breath independently.  Molly spent her first 19 days on the NICU floor of Dayton Children’s Hospital.  Over the course of Molly’s life, she has experienced several Emergency Room visits, various hospital stays, and a day to day life that requires ongoing specialized care to meet her daily living needs.  In July of 2018 Molly was hospitalized and diagnosed with a rare congenital brain malformation involving the cerebellum referred to as Dandy Walker Syndrome, in addition she was diagnosed with a very rare seizure disorder, Infantile Spasms.  Molly has a long journey ahead of her full of hard work, many medications, multiple therapies, and various medical equipment needs.   Molly and the Kramer’s are blessed to have such supportive families, friends, community, and medical support teams.  Despite the difficulties and obstacles in front of her, Molly will continue to move mountains little by little, day by day.” 

The money was raised from the chapters monthly recycling where FFA members meet for four hours to take in and sort community members’ recyclable goods. The Parkway FFA recycling day takes place every third Saturday of every month and anyone is welcome to bring their plastics, paper, cardboard, aluminum cans, and tin cans to recycle and support the Parkway FFA.

Parkway FFA Teaches Second Graders About Agriculture
On October 16th and 18th, Parkway FFA went down to the second-grade classrooms to teach the students about agriculture. Two classes learned about the growing cycle of pumpkins while the other two learned about harvesting crops. Members interacted with the students in educating them about the two subjects while keeping it interesting for the children. The young students showed much enthusiasm for the crafts that went with the lesson and are looking forward to November’s PALS.

2018-2019 Ag Technology and Mechanics State Team Competes 

The Parkway FFA members that were interested in being a part of the 2018-2019 Ag Technology and Mechanics state team took the online portion of the CDE in mid-October. Results determined which four members would qualify for the December 2018 contest. According to the results Noah Riley, Colton Kraner, and David Sheets will be returning from the 2017-2018 team which participated in the contest at the beginning of this October. The fourth participant joining them will be senior member Nick Riley. Due to rule changes, the contest is in transition of taking place in December and the testing taking place in the October of the same year as opposed to competing in October and testing in April the year before. The boys intend on working hard in the upcoming months to be proficient in their competition.

Second Graders Learn About Turkeys, Potatoes and Pumpkins
On November 16th and November 20th, 2018 Parkway FFA’s senior members went down to teach the second graders about turkeys and potatoes while the junior members taught the first-grade classes about pumpkins. Two second grade classes learned about the different parts of a turkey and made a craft of a turkey to identify the different parts. The other two classes learned about different ways to grow potatoes and different foods made of potatoes. The first-graders learned about the different kinds of pumpkins, how to grow pumpkins, and what pumpkins are used for. The FFA enjoys teaching the young students about agriculture and intend to create a different lesson plan each month for the remaining of the school year. 

District 4 Food Science CDE

On November 8th, 2018, 4 members from the Parkway FFA traveled to Wayne Trace to participate in the District 4 Food Science CDE. Participants for Parkway’s team were Shay Bolton, Ansley Burtch, Alexis Cairns, and Sophia Miller. This competition consisted of establishing different aromas, determining different food safety and sanitation procedures, and creating their own fantasy food product and label. As a team, Parkway placed 7th out of 15 teams. 

Pictured- (Top Step to Bottom Step) Sophia Miller, Alexis Cairns, Ansley Burtch, and Shay Bolton

Parkway FFA Members Visit Ohio State University

On November 16th, 2018, Parkway FFA members who chose to attend, traveled to Columbus, Ohio to visit The Ohio State football stadium and watch an Ohio State hockey game. To begin the trip, they joined FFA chapters all over Ohio to take a tour of The Ohio State football stadium. As soon as they got off the bus, members walked across the field through the tunnels. They then went up to the second floor to see the recruiting room and where players commit to playing for the Buckeyes. After the recruiting room students visited The Ohio State band room where the OSU band members spend countless hours rehearsing for the upcoming games. They then went to a presidential suite and learned about the extreme cleansing that goes into the rooms before each home football game. And finally, the last stop of the tour was the press box. There were three layers of tables for the reporters to sit at and narrate each player’s moves for the fans over the radio. After departing the stadium, members went to eat at PizzaCucinova, a build-your-own pizza restaurant. After fueling up, Parkway members went to the Ohio State versus Wisconsin hockey game and experienced a Buckeye win.

Pictured: 

OSU Hockey Game- (Left to Right) Tessa Thatcher, Madison Kroeger, Alyssa Miller, and Mecaylah Hesse

Snow Plow Rodeo Team for Mercer County Compete and Win

Mercer County Engineer employees participated in a regional County Engineer Snow Plow Rodeo on November 20, 2018 held at the Allen County Fairgrounds, Lima.  Every other year Mercer County Engineer snow and ice control crews participate with their counterparts from Allen and Auglaize counties in competitions testing their skills against others in their profession.  The activity allows the crews to network with others in the region about snow and ice control and other county engineer work efforts.  Every other year one of the three counties involved take turns hosting the event.

This year the Mercer County A-team (Tony Knapke, Todd Freeman, Darren Porter and  Mike Steinlage) came in first.  The Mercer County B-team (Dusty Messner, Gary Schaublin, Gary Kuhn and Dick Gray) came in second.

In the individual competitions, Mike Steinlage placed first in backhoe and Dusty Messner placed 2nd in snow plow driving.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Snow Plow 1st Place Team:Tony Knapke, Todd Freeman, Darren Porter and Mike Steinlage

Snow Plow 2nd Place Team: Dusty Messner, Gary Schaublin, Gary Kuhn and Dick Gray
 

Snow Plow 2nd Place Individual: Dusty Messner

Backhoe 1st Place Individual: Mike Steinlage

 
December 8-10, 2018
 

Fremont Company Employees Collect for Food Pantry
Special thanks to the Fremont Company Employees in Rockford whose contributions to the Parkway Local Food Pantry will make a difference in the community.

Picture from the left are:

Tyler Westgerdes, Jerry Kroeger, Ken Pond, Pastor Chip Steffy with Rockford United Methodist Church, and RUMC Youth Director Nathan Rupp.

Our December Rockford Arts Exhibiter is Jill Parris

Jill was born in Oak Park, Illinois in 1961 with a “natural ability to paint.” Although her life journey did not lead her down the path to pursue a formal education in art, Jill always believed God was calling her beyond what began as a hobby into a direction where she could share her talents and passion for art with others. In 2007, Jill received her certification in One Stroke Painting Techniques (Donna Dewberry) before going on to train with master artist Jerry Yarnell in 2011. Yarnell described Jill as having a natural painting ability and has since helped Jill refine her talent. Jill has attended art exhibits in Mercer County, Ohio and is involved with the Lake Area Arts Group. Presently, her work
is proudly on display at area businesses and has a sentimental place in the homes of her friends and family.  “art is too important not to share” ~

Jill's exhibit can be seen at the Rockford Village Hall during business hours through the month of December.    All are welcome to stop by!

Rockford Council Meets on December 4, 2018
Best Decorated House Contest
Report on Christmas in the Park Success
Christmas Day Dinner at Shane's Park by Rockford Methodist Church Members
Click here to read the council minutes by Fiscal Agent, Lisa Kuhn

Rockford Car Show organizers retire - donate funds

The Village of Rockford and the Rockford Community Days committee would like to give a heartfelt THANK YOU to Jerry Bolenbaugh and Clete Schmidt for their 20+ years of dedication to the Rockford Car Show that has been held in conjunction with Rockford Community Days.

As Jerry and Clete retire, they are donating last year’s profit of $3,300 to the Rockford American Legion Post 508 Veterans Memorial fundraising
efforts.  Thank you for this generous donation!

Any individuals and/or business that would like to donate to the
Rockford American Legion Post 508 Veterans Memorial should direct checks
to the Leota Braun Foundation, Box 364, Rockford, OH  45882.  Please
note "Post 508 Veterans Memorial"  on the memo line.

Pictured above:

Jerry Boloenbaugh -  Car Show Committee, Mike Schumm - Bicentennial Committee,
Reed Shaffer - American Legion Representative, Clete Schmidt - Car Show Committee,
Jeff Long - Village Administrator, Norm VanTilburg - Bicentennial Committee

New Hope Program - 12 week support group for people who suffer from Anxiety, Panic Attacks or Depression
C & C Bible Fellowship, located out side of Berne, Indiana, offer again this year a program called New Hope. New hope is in its 12 year and is a 12 week support group for people who suffer from Anxiety, Panic Attacks or Depression.  The group will meet each Monday night from 7:00 PM to 8:30 pm for 12 weeks starting Monday January 7, 2019. This support group is for anyone who suffers from one of the conditions mentioned above whether it is minor or extreme in their life.

Success examples:

New Hope had a lady attended from Roanoke Indiana who could not leave her home due to panic attacks. With her husband’s help she attended this class for 12 week  and sometime later she was able to begin employment at a local bank.

There was a lady who had so much anxiety when she drove in snow that she would suffer a full blown panic attack.  After she attended this class she now drives in snow with no problem.

There was a man from Wells County Indiana who stated that this support group saved his life.

A young man who suffered these conditions said he received more help attending this support group then he received from counseling in the past number of years.

Not all people experience these total results but most do show great improvement if they are willing to work hard..

This program does in no way suggest that attendees go off medication prescribed by a  professional Doctor, or stop attending counseling. This support group is meant to be an additional self help program to help people improve their life.

Sign up starts now through December 28, 2018. Class space is limited so call today.  Call C. & C. Bible Fellowship Inc. at 260-223-6392. Ask for Bill Hirschy, New Hope facilitator.

St. Paul's United Church of Christ - Christmas Eve Service 6 PM

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

 
December 6-7, 2018
 

Parkway Local Board of Education Special Meeting 

The Parkway Local Board of Education will hold a special meeting on Friday, December 7, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. in the community room.  The purpose of the meeting will be to vote on the football bleacher project. 

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

What a weekend for Panther JV and Varsity Basketball
4 games - 4 wins!  
Story and pictures by James Leighner

Friday November 30, 2018 was Waynesfield Goshen. Both the JV and Varsity teams had little trouble coming out on top.

Saturday, December 1, 2018 the Panthers faced off against the Botkin's Trojans.  

The Panther JV led their game most of the way, but the Trojans hit a pair of last second free throws to force OT.  In the overtime period the Panthers would strike first, and hold the lead the rest of the way.

The Trojans put up a good fight, but in the end, Panther Varsity by 8, winning 61 -53.

Link to Botkins’ Game pictures:

Click Here for more Botkins Game Pictures by James Leighner.

Link to Waynesfield Goshen Game pictures

Click here for his pictures of the win at Waynesfield Goshen.

 
December 4-5, 2018
 

REMINDER

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Saturday, December 8, 2018

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Saturday, December 8, 2018 for the game against Crestview.

Doug and Jennifer Rich; Dave and Patty Hipply; Mike and Tara Baltzell; Jason and Kristina Boroff; Gerald Kroeger; Benjamin and Jeannette Ford; Greg and Tabitha Bolton; and Stephanie Severt.

Please arrive by 5:00 PM.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345.  Thank you for your help! 

Parkway December 2018 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Parkway's Jr High girls were at St Marys on Thursday night 11-29-2018 to play the Rough Riders.  

7th grade girls would be defeated.

The 8th grade girls had a much harder challenge in the Rough Riders that with the opener at Delphos, but they would rise to it and win.  Off to a good start, 8th grade girls are 2 - 0.

Photos & info shared by James Leighner - Thank you!

Click Here for more great pictures of this game by James Leighner.

Click on smaller thumbnails to enlarge them!

Parkway’s Jr High Girls Basketball started their season last Tuesday, November 27, 2018 in Delphos against the Blue Jays.  The 7th grade girls ended up getting defeated, but the 8th grade girls had an impressive victory. Photos & info shared by James Leighner - Thank you!

Click Here for more of the Parkway - St. Johns Game Click on smaller thumbnails to enlarge them!

Click on smaller thumbnails to enlarge them!

 
December 1-3, 2018
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 14 years.
 

VW Area Boychoir to perform Christmas Concert

The Van Wert Area Boychoir will present a Christmas concert on Sunday, December 9th at 2pm at Trinity Friends Church in Van Wert. This Christmas performance is entitled, “Fantasia Noel.” The boys will perform many popular numbers including recognizable Christmas songs and new arrangements inspired by traditional carols. The choir has been rehearsing these pieces since August and is eager to perform them for the community. This concert is free and open to the public, a free will donation will be collected. Refreshments of cookies and punch will be served immediately after the concert.

The Van Wert Area Boychoir is a non-profit organization incorporated in 2004 that is open to all Van Wert area boys grade 3 through 6. The mission of the boychoir is to provide opportunities for boys of all backgrounds and abilities to participate in a quality musical, cultural, and educational experience.

The boychoir rehearses on Sundays from 6-7:30pm each week throughout the school year. Families with boys interested in joining can learn more by calling 419-513-0554 or 419-238-1962.  The choir is directed by Phillip Winfield with Melissa Clay as accompanist and Larry Taylor as arranger and technical director.

Christmas in the Park Well-Attended and Volunteers Thanked

Monty and daughters with Santa and Mrs. Claus

Parkway Elementary Music Students Entertaining!

Monty Gibbons, organizer of Rockford’s recent 2018 Christmas in the Park held recently thanks everyone for their help with the event.  He reported that 27 lighted displays were set-up and enjoyed by over 300 people who stopped in to have coffee/hot chocolate from the Jonathan Sell’s Bigbee Shop in St. Marys. Monty thanked Bigbee’s as well as cookie donation bakers:  Crystal Gehm Severt; Deb Schumm Rollins; Laurels Nursing Home and Marketing Director Leah Hays;  Carol Jeffries; Claudia Hileman Sidenbender; and  Loretta Hays.
Monty said, “We actually had just the right amount of cookies needed. Probably gonna ask for one more dozen per donation next year because I really think we will get bigger.”

Monty also said, “Thanks to Jonathan Sell and Bigbee coffee. We served over 300 people and drank every drop! Shannon Wagner, Parkway Music teacher brought  students to sing and who sounded amazing and really made it a true Christmas atmosphere. Carl and Donna Pond - I can’t say thank you enough because you two truly were the stars of the night. Nathan Laura Putman,  Thank you also for taking pictures of the kids with Santa and Mrs Claus. People are loving their photos. Overall this was truly a winning experience and came off just like I had hoped. Thanks everyone and MERRY CHRISTMAS!”

Also recognized by Monty Gibbons are: Tom Beahrs; Blair Shaffer; and Bubba Temple, Village Employees who kept the park trimmed up until the event; as welll as Village Fiscal Employee Lisa Kuhn for helped with collecting gifts and lots of other details. Thank you Joyce Emans decorated Shane’s hall.

* Rockford's best decorated house contest - prize package will be
presented on December 24th. Over $1,200 in prizes have been donated so far to the winner!

Picture above was taken at a previous Christmas in the Park.

Christmas Concert with Blind Date and Kim Gardner

The Laurels of Shane Hill and DJ Auto Repair along with
Mike Bruns Plumbing, Heating, and Electric presents the 3rd Annual Christmas Concert

Blind Date Band with special guest Kim Gardner

Sunday - December 16th at 2 pm at The Rockford Belle

Non-perishable food donation will be collected for the
local food pantry.

Free admission
Refreshments
Pictures with Santa 

 
November 29-30, 2018
 

Parkway Schools are now closed for Friday, November 30, 2018.

Parkway Schools are on a 2 hour delay due to fog for Friday, November 30, 2018

Widespread fog affecting many schools.

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

Thanks to Pat Agler for sharing these pictures!

Thanks to Pat Agler for sharing these pictures!

Varsity Girls Basketball Team

Junior Varsity Girls Basketball Team

Photo Coming Soon by Pat Agler

Thanks to Pat Agler for sharing these pictures!

Varsity Boys Basketball Team

Junior Varsity Boys Basketball Team

 
November 26-28, 2018
 

Get in the Spirit – Parkway Band and Choir Christmas Concerts
The Parkway High School band and choir invites you to their upcoming Christmas Concert on Sunday December 2 at 3 PM in the auditorium!

The students are looking forward to bringing you the special sounds of the holiday season!

The 7th and 8th grade Parkway Middle School band and choir will perform on Monday, December 3 at 6:30 PM.

Mailbox Repair Notice

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

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

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.

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

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

On Sunday, November 25th at 6 PM, The Mendon Festival of Trees Committee members are planning a lighting ceremony at the Gazebo in the park in Mendon. It will be a kick-off to the Christmas Festival and commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Festival of Trees at Town Hall. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in attendance and talk to the children. Hot Chocolate will be served. The event includes Christmas caroling.

Later on December 7th and 8th, the Festival of Trees will take place at Town Hall with 80 decorated trees to enjoy.

Come and enjoy the Spirit of Christmas.

REMINDER

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday, November 30, 2018

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Friday, November 30, 2018 for the game against Waynesfield-Goshen.

Jeff and Jennifer Armstrong; Deb and Scott Call; Stephanie Wilson and Walter Simon; Eric and Amanda White; Shane and Carla Barna; Stephen and Trisha Bentz; and Brad and Alyssa Joseph.

Please arrive by 5:00 PM.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345.  Thank you for your help! 

REMINDER

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Saturday, December 1, 2018

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Saturday, December 1, 2018 for the game against Botkins.

Bryan and Karen Strickler; Andrew and Destinee Knittle; Gary and Amanda Fox; John and Tricia Ridenour; Rick Rutledge; Cale and Tara Williamson; and Kirk and Samantha Dull.

Please arrive by 5:00 PM.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345.  Thank you for your help! 

 
November 21-25, 2018
 

Thank you for your service Mike Schaffner ~ U.S. Naval Chief Petty Officer 
Francis and Sandy Schaffner accept certificate of appreciation on Mike's behalf from the Village of Rockford
and Mayor Amy Joseph.

RADC meeting will be Monday, November 26th at 7 pm in the library basement. We will be discussing 2019 membership, passing out candy canes at the 4 way stop and Lucas Luginbill from Luginbill Construction as our guest speaker

Our Old Bookcase, Nov. 29, 2018.   A rare Indian Motorcycle

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

Photo caption:  This 1902 Indian Motorcycle was featured at the U.S. National Museum in 1953.  The United States Government believes in Preservation of our Heritage at our National Museums.

How would you motorcycle riders like to put this 1902 Indian Motorcycle on your Wish List for December Christmas shopping?  Most likely, a lot of current motorcycle riders or retired riders, would like an Indian under the Christmas Tree.

The 1902 Indian Motorcycle in the photograph above, was featured in the Catalog of the Cycle Collection of the Division of Engineering at the United States National Museum of the Smithsonian Institution, at Washington, D.C.  Smith Hempstone Oliver, the author of this 1953 Catalog, was one of the authorities on uni-cycles, bicycles, tricycles, quadricycles, military bicycles, as well as motorcycles. 

In this Catalog, Oliver described this 1902 Indian.  The design was conceived in 1901 by the noted bicycle racer Oscar Hedstrom for the Hemdee Mfg. Co., later to be known as the Indian Motocycle Co. of Springfield, Massachusetts.  The motorcycle was equipped with a 1 ¾ horsepower, 1 cylinder, 4 cycle, air-cooled, gasoline engine with an automatic intake valve and a cam-actuated exhaust valve.

About fifteen years before the introduction of the Indian, two Germans are given credit for the first gas-engined motorcycles in 1885.  Gottlieb Daimler was the first to use an internal combustion engine which was powered by gasoline.  His fellow worker Wilhelm Maybach developed the Petroleum Reitwagen.  A reiten is a rider; obviously, a wagen is a wagon.  Thus, Petroleum Reitwagen would have a loose translation of “motor wagon rider.”

The 1880’s and 1890’s was a period of inventions in the United States, related to the latest innovations around the world, exhibited at the U.S. Centennial’s World Fair in 1876.  A motorcycle was just one of the many new ideas, not only in Germany but also in other European Countries, as well as here in the United States.  Charles Metz began the first production of motorcycles in Waltham, Massachusetts.  In 1901, the Indian Motorcycle Company began production of their motorcycle.   Two years later, in  1903, Harley-Davidson launched their production of their motorcycles with their signature V-Twin engine.   

As we travel across the States in the summertime, Alvin not only stops at Museums and Libraries for me, he also stops at Motorcycle Museums.  I am always surprised at the motorcycle history which is preserved by these museums.  Often, the motorcycle museums are owned by private organizations or private families.  Right here in Ohio, the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame is located east of Columbus, at 13515 Yarmouth Drive, in Pickerington, Ohio. 

When I see photographs or post card photographs related to motorcycle exhibits or motorcycle clubs here in Mercer County, I consider these photographs as some of the best methods of preservation of local Motorcycle History.  A few local citizens have placed old photographs related to motorcycles under the care of the Mercer County Historical Society, Inc. at the Mercer County Historical Museum.  If you wish to contribute to the preservation of the history of motorcycles and their riders here in Mercer County, you are most welcome to place copies of your photographs with the Mercer County Historical Society.  You are also invited to write down your own memories of riding Motorcycles here in Mercer County.  The Mission of the Mercer County Historical Society is to preserve local history.

Mercer County Chapter of Ohio Genealogical Society Plan Annual Christmas Get-Together

The Mercer County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society will meet Sunday, December 2nd at 2:00 pm at the Richardson Bretz Building 119 West Fulton St., Celina.

Annual Christmas get together. Induction of First Families and Pioneer Families.  Also, Sue Miller will present “A Sentimental Journey”. This is a 3-year project she shares with her sister, Annie Miller and is a recreation of a 1940’s farm house.

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

 
November 19-20, 2018
 

Alspach Gearhart Jurczyk Funeral Homes Announce
Purchase of Ketcham Ripley Funeral Home 
Services, Name, and Staffing at Ketcham’s Remains the Same

By Sheila Baltzell 11-20-2018

Marcia N. Ripley, longtime owner of her family business, Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home in Rockford, and Tim Jurczyk, Andy Gearhart, and Sean Sauer co-owners of the Alspach Gearhart Jurczyk Funeral Homes in Van Wert announced recently that Alspach Gearhart Jurzyck has purchased Ketcham’s from Marcia.

The agreement was completed in July 2017, and the gentlemen at Alspach Gearhart Jurczyk have been helping Marcia since that time, learning the Ketcham customer family base and getting to know the area. “I couldn’t have asked for a better group to take over the reins; they were the right people,” said Marcia. “They fit in so well because they are a family-based operation just like Ketcham-Ripley. We all endeavor to serve our families.”

Tim, Andy and Sean began last year by taking care of all the behind-the-scenes tasks, including answering phones, providing livery service, embalming and care of the deceased, meeting with the families and helping with visitations and funeral services. They also handle all of the custom designing and printing of the funeral stationary. Alspach-Gearhart also offers funeral pre-planning, just like Ketcham’s. 

In addition to custom designed stationary, Tim, Andy and Sean also bring some additional services to Ketcham’s. Alpach Gearhart operate their own crematory in Van Wert, offer an updated website with grief support options, offer an expanded line of caskets and urns in wood, metal and unique designs, specialty gifts and jewelry, as well as offering pet cremation services through their access to a reliable Pet Crematory contractor, Paws and  Remember in Ft. Wayne and Toledo.

The name will remain the same, Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home. In the past, laws required the owners’ names to be part of the funeral home title - but no more. According to Andy Gearhart, that law changed in the past several years. They intend to keep the Ketcham-Ripley name. They also employ Marcia as Funeral Director/Embalmer as well as Peggy Williams and Michelle Agler, who are employed part-time to help with services. “Families come to Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home because of Marcia and her dedication and compassion. She truly cares about the people of Rockford, and we want her to continue caring for them for years to come,” says Sean.
 

At the Van Wert and Convoy locations, the staff includes owners and funeral directors/embalmers Tim Jurczyk, Andy Gearhart and Sean Sauer. Steve Alspaugh, a Parkway graduate and former resident of Rockford, works for them part-time as Funeral Home Attendant. He is joined by Stuart Wyatt in that same capacity.

Marcia Nelle Ripley is the Fifth Generation of Embalmers and Funeral Directors, of the Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home as well as their family floor covering business. She is the daughter of the late Carl and late Lucille Ripley. After graduating from The University of Cincinnati, with a degree in Psychology, she entered Mortuary College, and received her licenses as an embalmer and a Funeral Director, in 1975. After her parents passed away, Marcia was responsible for both businesses. On June 30, 2005 the Ketcham’s Furniture & Floor Coverings Business was closed.

Ketcham’s is located at 111 West First Street, in Rockford. 419-363-3981

Website is www.ketchamripley.com

Alspach Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory is located at 722 S Washington Street, in Van Wert, OH 45891; phone number 419-238-1112.

Gearhart and Jurzyck Funeral Home is located at 655 N. Main St., Convoy, OH 45832; phone number 419-749-4338.

Website is www.alspachgearhart.com

Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home of Van Wert started in business over 110 years ago in Middle Point and organized by Rev. E.F. Gamble in 1903. After only two years, it became necessary to move the business to larger quarters and Rev. Gamble selected Van Wert as the location of the young and flourishing institution. 

In 1926, Rev. Gamble was joined in his business by Gordon H. Alspach (pronounced al-spaw), who had married Rev. Gamble’s daughter, Grace. Shortly thereafter, the name of the company was changed to Gamble & Alspach. Rev. Gamble remained active in the business until his death in 1934, but the funeral home continued operating under the Gamble & Alspach name until 1955 when it changed to Alspach Funeral Home.

In 1957, Gordon and Grace Alspach’s youngest son, John, started his career at the funeral home. John worked with his father until Gordon’s death in 1975. Shortly after Gordon’s death, Michael Gearhart was hired in 1975. Tim Jurczyk joined the funeral home in 1988. 

In 1989, Alspach Funeral Home became Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, the name it still bears today. John ran the business until his retirement in 1993, at which point Gearhart and Jurczyk bought the funeral home from John who later passed away in 2009.

1996 saw the addition of the Van Wert Crematory. Investing in a brand new state-of-the-art crematory, Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home became the only full service on-site crematory in Van Wert County- which still holds true today.

In 1998 the Van Wert business opened its doors in the neighboring community of Convoy, Ohio with the construction of a brand new facility, Gearhart & Jurczyk Funeral Home, to better serve the clientele of western Van Wert County. 

Andrew Gearhart (above) joined the staff of Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Gearhart & Jurczyk Funeral Home in 2001. In 2003, Michael Gearhart sold his ownership shares to Tim Jurczyk and Andy Gearhart, but he continued to remain active in the business until his death in 2016.

Sean Sauer (above) joined the firm as a funeral director and embalmer in 2015 and became a partner in 2016. Sean brought many personalizing innovations to the business including: speciality urns shown; ashes preserved in blown glass; thumbprint jewelry personalization; and online grief counseling services.

Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory and Gearhart & Jurczyk Funeral Home are honored to serve the families in our area and proud to be in be in their 5th generation of local ownership, just like Ketcham’s.

Click Here for a past article on Marcia Ripley and her family business.

On Sunday, November 25th at 6 PM, The Mendon Festival of Trees Committee members are planning a lighting ceremony at the Gazebo in the park in Mendon. It will be a kick-off to the Christmas Festival and commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Festival of Trees at Town Hall. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in attendance and talk to the children. Hot Chocolate will be served. The event includes Christmas caroling.

Later on December 7th and 8th, the Festival of Trees will take place at Town Hall with 80 decorated trees to enjoy.

Come and enjoy the Spirit of Christmas.

 
November 17-18, 2018
 

WREN CHRISTMAS SOCIETY NEWS

The Wren Christmas Society put up decorations in Wren on Saturday, November 17th and the Grand Illumination will be held on Saturday, Nov. 24th at dark (approximately 6:00 pm).  The winner of the Create your own Christmas scene will be announced on Tuesday, and that child will get to turn on the lights this year. 

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in Wren at the Santa House at the corner of St. Rt. 49 and Jackson Street on Saturday, December 15th and Friday and Saturday, December 21st and 22nd from 6 to 8 pm.  Carriage rides, hot chocolate and cookies will be available during Santa hours.

Parkway Middle School Honor Roll
by Michelle Agler, Parkway Middle School Secretary
1st Quarter 2018-2019
Congratulations to the Panther Achievers!
Click Here!

The Rockford Bicentennial committee will be meeting on 
Monday - December 3rd at 7 pm at the Village Office & Museum

 
November 16, 2018
 

Jane Perry – Area Artist Featured at Village Office
Beginning this month, Rockford Area artists will be setting up exhibits in local
businesses to celebrate our local (some hidden)  talents !    Our first exhibit will
feature Jane Perry.  Her exhibit can be seen at the Rockford Village Office during
regular business hours.  Some items will be for sale !  This exhibit of several
different art mediums will be featured until the end of November.   

Jane is a member of the Lake Area Arts Group.  She has taken 3 years of art classes and after that was self- taught.  She started working in oils and has been interested in art for over 25 years.  

** Are you interested in exhibiting your artwork?  Are you a business 
willing to have local artists exhibit in your location ?  If so,  please contact 
Lisa Kuhn at the Rockford Village office at 419-363-3032 ext 1.  
We will be featuring a new artist and new location each month.

Their Duty was to Serve; Our Duty is to Remember

The Rockford American Legion Post 508 and the Rockford Bicentennial committee are working together to construct a Veterans Memorial in Hedges Park.    The memorial will consist of 5 monuments - 1 of each of the branches of the military:  The Navy, The Marines, The Coast Guard, The Army, and The Air Force.  They will be designed to honor the men and women who have served our country. 

Also included in the Veterans Memorial will be 3 flags: 1 American Flag, 1 Ohio State Flag and 1 POW Flag.   Around these flags and memorial will be a walking path and some benches.

The Veterans Memorial will be located beside the American Legion and is located on State Route 33 in Rockford.  This memorial will be seen not only by the local community but by the many travelers passing by Hedges Park.  We believe this Veterans Memorial will be a benefit to our community.

All around our county memorials stand to honor those who served in uniform and the battles they fought to protect our nation’s freedoms.   We need your financial help for this to become a reality in our community.

Please consider a donation to this community project.   Checks should be made out to the Leota Braun Foundation with “Post 508 Veterans Memorial” on the memo line.

Each donation will be tax deductible.   Mail to:  Leota Braun Foundation, PO Box 364, Rockford, Oh 45882.   The plan is to have donations received by May 27th, 2019.  We will give an update at the Memorial Day Service.  The Veterans Memorial is to be dedicated at the May 2020 Memorial Day Service – the Bicentennial Year. 

Please see the attached rough draft!   We need your support to make this a reality !!         

Thank you for your time and consideration.   Please direct any questions to the

Rockford Village Office at 419-363-3032 ext 1.

Reed Shaffer, American Legion Representative

Jeff Long, Rockford Village Administrator / Bicentennial Coordinator

Mike Schumm, VP of the Shanes Crossing Historical Society/ Bicentennial Coordinator

Area Lions Club Holds Fish Fry and Plans Other Events

Rockford Lions member Dennis Hecht (right) is pictured with several members of the Parkway Local Schools seventh and eighth grade classes who assisted with the 13th Annual Lions Fish Fry on Saturday evening, November 3rd at the Rockford Community Building.   All proceeds from the 2018 Fish Fry help to support the Parkway 8th Grade Class Trip to Washington DC in Spring 2019. Members of the Rockford, Mendon, and Willshire Lions Clubs work together on this project each year. 

Planning continues for two new Rockford Lions projects in 2019 including a Quarter Auction to be held at the Rockford Community Building on Saturday, March 30th, 2019 beginning at 12 noon.   Lion Lee Ann Frank is the chairperson.   Rockford Lions will also take the lead for the 25th Annual Rockford Car Show and Cruise-In on Friday, June 14th, 2019 in downtown Rockford.  Registration begins at 4 pm.  Lion Jeremy Heiser is the contact person.   

Proceeds from Rockford Lions projects fund scholarships & help fulfill local community needs & requests. Globally Lions are involved in five humanitarian areas: Diabetes, Environment, Hunger, Childhood Cancer, and Vision.

The Rockford Lions Club will meet at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, November 26th and December 10th, 2018 at the Rockford Carry Out, 156 S. Main Street. 

Dancing with the Big Stars 2018

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

The Dinner performance doors will open at 5:00, dinner at 6:00 and the dancing to begin around 7:00. 

 
November 13-15, 2018
 

Parkway Schools are now CLOSED for Thursday, November 15, 2018.

Parkway Schools are on a 2 hour delay due to icy roads for Thursday, November 15, 2018

Sheriff Jeff Grey warns of icy and treacherous roads.

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

Rockford Eagles Donates to Parkway Panther Football Program

By Sheila Baltzell 11-15-2018

The Rockford Eagles Aerie 1292 recently donated $1000 to the Parkway Panther Football Program, Rockford, OH. Pictured at left is Eagles President Brad Baltzell presenting the check to head football coach Rob “Dusty” Rutledge. The money will be used for equipment, dummies and balls for summer practice and conditioning. In the past year, the Eagles membership has given back to the community through donations to Community Health Professionals, Austism Speaks, Mercer County Cancer Association, Parkway Back Pack Project, Lots for Soldiers and the Parkway Booster Club. These donations have helped fund many projects in countless ways.

Men’s Prostate Cancer Group to Hear About Local Cancer Organization

Man to Man is a group to support men who have been diagnosed with or have been treated for prostate cancer or who would like more information about prostate cancer.  At the next meeting the Cancer Association of Auglaize County will be giving a presentation about the services they offer for local people who are battling cancer of any type.  The meeting will be held at 7:00PM on Tuesday, November 20th at the Joint Township District Memorial Hospital. The atmosphere is casual and all interested men are invited to attend.  For more information contact Dick Falkner, facilitator, at 419-629-9950 or mantoman@nktelco.net.

Christmas in the Park 
Sunday - November 25th from 6 - 8 pm
Shanes Park - Rockford, Ohio

A Fun Night with family and friends !

FREE Coffee & Hot Chocolate from Biggby's in St. Mary's!
Cookies from local bakers !
Visit Santa & Mrs. Claus at the Log Cabin!
Laura Putman Photography will be taking FREE photos
with children and Santa !

Christmas lights and music to kick off the Christmas season !

* Rockford's best decorated house contest - prize package will be
presented on December 24th.

Picture at left was taken at a previous Christmas in the Park.

8th Graders Tour Vantage

Over 850 eighth graders from area schools were able to get a taste of what their future could look like as they experienced hands-on activities in seventeen different Vantage programs, during a recent visit.

Eighth graders toured the Culinary Arts lab and restaurant as students prepared homemade noodles and desserts in the kitchen for the annual Thanksgiving buffet. The Cup and Saucer restaurant is open to the public on Tuesdays and Thursdays weekly, and takes reservations throughout the school year. In the Industrial Mechanics lab, eighth graders were able to operate RAMTEC (Robotics & Advanced Manufacturing Technology Education Collaborative) robotics machines and engage in the same equipment and technology as industry leaders. Criminal Justice students demonstrated proper techniques when handcuffing and allowed eighth graders to operate some of the features in the cruiser. Eighth graders also had a chance to test their fabrication skills by fusing two pieces of metal together using the virtual reality welder.

This exploration activity is especially helpful by allowing students to gain a perspective of career options available to them and what skills are being used. Students also become more aware of how their interests and abilities can be developed into a rewarding career.

It’s great to host these 8th graders and give them a chance to see what career technical education at Vantage is all about! 

CAPTION 1:  Parkway 8^th graders program the FANUC robot in an attempt to pick up blocks in the Industrial Mechanics lab.

Our Old Bookcase, Nov. 21, 2018.   What happened to the Men’s Club on the water front?
OUR OLD BOOK CASE  By  Joyce L. Alig, President, Mercer County Historical Society, Inc.

Photo caption:  What happened to the “men only” Club House, known as Phi Delta Kappa Club House, along the water front at Mercelina Park, at Celina, Ohio?

I just had to smile when I came across this post card photograph of the Phi Delta Kappa Club House.  Other post cards and photographs, which were related to this club, were also in this file. 

One photograph was dated, “Sunday afternoon, 1912.”  Apparently, the men held their meetings on Sunday afternoons, without inviting girl friends or wives and children.  On the back of the photograph, the following statement was written:  “National Fraternity Phi Delta Kappa, Ohio Chapter, Celina, Ohio, at Club House on Mercelina Park, Celina.  Seven Members were absent, including custodian of this picture, Bronsart Gilberg.”  Twenty-seven men, dressed in their suits, white shirts, and ties, were on this photograph, by the photographer ”Boosz Photo Shop.”

Another post card with a photograph of the Phi Delta Kappa Club House, was dated May 3, 1922, addressed to Miss Leta Love, 98 Buttles Ave., Columbus, Ohio.  The message was written, “Am feeling better and am doing everything just right.  R. Y. P.”

Another post card featured a photograph of the interior meeting room, with three windows on the back wall, which might suggest that this “private club,” met on the second floor of the Club House.  The interior wall included two framed doors with transoms above the door frames.  A flag was positioned above the two doors.  In front of the wall was located a library table, with one chair behind the table.  In the foreground were wood backed chairs facing the library table.  Apparently, the library table was for the President to face the Club Members during their official meetings.

As I look back at this historic photograph, I compare it to today’s meetings of various organizations.  How many private men’s clubs meet in Mercer County today?  Do men wear suits and white shirts and ties at meetings today?  As I recall the days when men wore wool suits, white shirts with starched collars, and ties, I do not think that the men liked to wear those white shirts with starched collars.  In fact, I do not think that the women, who did the laundry, appreciated starching those white shirts and collars and drying the clothes on the clothes lines outside, and then ironing those shirts.  In fact, I know a lot of women who were happy when white shirts evolved into “permanent press,” shirts, and the shirts went into automatic washing machines and dryers.  What happened to the irons and ironing boards?  (They went away.)  What happened to the private men’s clubs?  Did they go away, also?

To be fair, not all of the men’s meeting places “went away” at that time.  Fat’s Stag Bar, at 117 West Fayette Street, was still listed in the 1977 “Mercer County & Celina Directory.”  I grew up in Fort Recovery; I was never in Fat’s Stag Bar, but I would think that from the name, it was a men’s only bar. 

I do not know the history of Fat’s Stag Bar, nor the history of the Phi Delta Kappa Club.  Perhaps, Celina residents will write down their memories and/or the history of the Phi Delta Kappa Club House, and/or the history of Fat’s Stag Bar, and mail it or email it to me, in order for the Mercer County Historical Society to preserve this history?  Those stories just have to contribute to great local history. 

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

VWHS THEATRE ANNOUNCES FALL PLAY CAST      

Van Wert High School Theatre members are preparing for their upcoming production of Little Women by Louisa May Alcott and adapted by Scott Davidson. This classic, written in 1868, shares what family, love, life, and tradition mean. As we journey with the March family through milestones, we continue to learn lessons that ring true today as they did 140 years ago.

The cast and crew for the production include the following students: Aeris Blakeley as Meg March, Michaella Johnson as Josephine March, Anna Wasson as Amy March, Nicole Palazzolo as Beth March, Cassie Welker as Marmee, and Josh Reichert as Mr. March. Other family members include Alli Morrow as Aunt March, Storm Matthews as Hannah, the maid, Dane Chiles as John Brooke, and Devon West as Theodore Lawrence. Friends of the Marches include Hannah Kraner as Mrs. Gardener, Shayenne Bojanowski as Sallie Gardener, Grace Doctor as Belle Moffat, and Sydney Maller as Annie Moffat. Stage crew consists of stage manager Erienne Cassidy, assistant stage manager Clayton Doctor, Zach Lape, Elise Klausing, Isabella Smith, Anna Cassidy, Brendan Browning, Sophie Rutkowski, Jaryn Pierce, Allison Hauter, Cal Wolfrum, Gracie Price, Aubree Baer, Tiana Groves, Max Laney, and Devoney Sidle.      

Show time for the production is set to begin at 7:00 p.m. this Friday, November 16, and Saturday, November 17, 2018, at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center.  Tickets may be purchased by visiting or calling the box office at 419-238-NPAC. Tickets will be available at the door also.  All tickets are $6. Little Women is produced with special arrangement by Pioneer Drama Service, Inc. in Englewood, Colorado. Thank you for supporting the students of Van Wert High School Theatre as we strive to create, perform, and inspire the Van Wert community.  

 
November 10-12, 2018
 

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

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

SENIORS

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

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

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

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

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

JUNIORS

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

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

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

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

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

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

SOPHOMORES

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

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

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

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

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

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

FRESHMEN

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Elise Darrigan, Danielle Huff, Riley Samples, Benjamin Sheppard

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

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

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

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

Holiday Magic Flower Show Planned
The Designing Women Floral Club is sponsoring a flower show. “Holiday Magic” on Saturday December 1. It will be at the Richardson Bretz Building in Celina
Floral Entry Set up is 8-10 am, and open to public 12-4.
Pre-registration of entries is required by November 15. Contact Marily Schweitzer at 567-510-5285 to enter and info on the designs. Judging by accredited OAGC judge.

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

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

 
November 10-12, 2018
 

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

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

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

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

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

Carry outs are available.

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

ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT VARIOUS MISSION PROJECTS

 
November 3-5, 2018
 

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

Van Wert Health Hosts Free Veteran’s Day Lunch

Van Wert, OH –  On Sunday, November 11th, Van Wert Health is honoring our nation’s veterans with a free lunch as a thank you for their service and dedication to our nation.

All active, inactive, and military personnel and a guest are invited to enjoy this free lunch any time between 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM on Sunday, November 11 at the Van Wert Health Cafeteria.  The menu will include prime rib, chicken cordon bleu, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and dessert. 

“Van Wert Health is proud to support our nation’s military servicemen and women.  We cannot thank them enough for the commitment and sacrifices they have made to defend our country,” shared Jim Pope, President and CEO of Van Wert Health. 

The Van Wert Health Cafeteria is located at 1250 S. Washington Street, Van Wert, Ohio.  Guests are invited to enter through the main entrance of the hospital.

Rockford Club Meets in October

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Remember to Vote on November 6, 2018

 
November 2, 2018
 

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

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

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

Santa Claus is Comin’ to the Niswonger

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
November 1, 2018
 

Going to the Horse Races Benefit Planned

Saturday November 10th, 2018

At Rockford Community Building

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

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

Ticket includes meal, drinks, snacks.

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

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

Proceeds Benefit Parkway Athletic Booster Club

Les Nichols 567-644-1483 or Cheryl Nichols

567-644-1482 OR nichols@bright.net

Remember to Vote on November 6, 2018

To Read Older Articles - Click Here

 
October 30-31, 2018
 

Reminder to the Parkway Community

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

Rockford United Methodist Church Thanks Fremont Company

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

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

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

Shown in the picture is L to R:

    Tyler Westgerdes- Fremont Production Manager

    Pastor Chip Steffy- Rockford United Methodist

    Ken Pond- Fremont Plant Manager

    Derek Pryer- H.R. Specialist

Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Member

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

Genealogical Society to Meet

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

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

Mercer Heath: Past, Present and Future

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

The public is welcome to attend. Refreshments served.

Parkway November 2018 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

 
October 27-29, 2018
 

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

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

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

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

Rural Team

Urban Team

Click Here for Other Parkway FFA News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shop - n - Dine

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

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

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

 
October 26, 2018
 

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

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

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

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

Rockford

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

The Laurels at Rockford

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

Mendon

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

Chatt

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

REMINDER - Senior Night Recognition

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday, October 26, 2018

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
October 25, 2018
 

Rockford Chamber of Commerce Minutes by Lisa Kuhn

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

 
October 23-24, 2018
 

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

Rockford Lions Club Hears Council on Aging Director

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

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

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

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

Parkway Local Board of Education Special Meeting 

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

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

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

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

Guests include:  

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

* Collie Lambert and Steve Scott – from Oakwood

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
October 19-22, 2018
 

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

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

Rockford

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

Mendon

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

Parkway Middle School Conferences

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

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

Traffic Update for First Phase of Van Wert Health Construction Project

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

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

Laurels of Shane Hill Welcomes New Administrator

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

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

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

(419) 363-3230

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

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

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

War Trophies at the Museum exhibit, this coming Sunday.

OUR OLD BOOK CASE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
October 15-18, 2018
 

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

Sheriff’s Department Receives Grant

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

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

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

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

 
October 12-14, 2018
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click on smaller thumbnails to enlarge them.

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

Rockford Club Begins New Year

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rockford
Details coming

Mendon

Details coming

 
October 9 -11, 2018
 

REMINDER

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday, October 12, 2018

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

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

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

Two Panther Revues by Parkway Choirs Coming to the Auditorium

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
October 6-8, 2018
 

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

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

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

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

Dancing with the Big Stars 2018

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

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

 
October 4-5, 2018
 

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

Free Movie Night at Rockford United Methodist Church

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

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

office at 419-363-3230

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click on smaller thumbnail pictures below to enlarge.

A CELEBRATION OF GOD'S GIFTS 

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

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

Sunday - October 14, 2018 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

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

By: Kiersten Roehm (Parkway FFA Historian)

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

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

Giveaways - Concessions available -

Thank you to our Farming Community for Supporting this event !

 
October 1 - 3, 2018
 

2018 Parkway Football Homecoming Court - Queen Kara Heck

Photos by James Leighner - thanks for sharing!

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

Friday, September 38, 2018 Parkway versus Ft. Recovery

Click on smaller thumbnails to enlarge them!

Parkway October 2018 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

 
September 29-30, 2018
 

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

From left to right: Brandon Joseph and Preston Browning

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

REFLECTION FRIDAY & SATURDAY                                            OCTOBER 12-13, 2018

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

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

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

Colleen is one of the 2018 Workshop Leaders

Colleen O'Steen

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

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

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

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

Holly Patrice Wood of Providence RI.

2018 Mercer County Fair- Parkway FFA

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

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

Mercer Landmark Inc. 

First Bank 

The Fremont Company 

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

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

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

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

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

Fair 2- Corey Walls 

 
September 28, 2018
 

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

 

Parkway Plans 2018 Fall Homecoming

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

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

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

REMINDER

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday, September 28, 2018

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

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

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

 
September 26-27, 2018
 

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

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

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Parkway Varsity Boys Golf Scores
by Coach Joe Falk

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

Catholic Social Services Events

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

www.mercercountysheriff.org

 
September 24-25, 2018
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Everyone is  invited to this event.

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

 
September 22-23, 2018
 

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday, September 28, 2018

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

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

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

Parkway Varsity Boys Golf MAC Scores
by Coach Joe Falk

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

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

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

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

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

Parkway Panther Athletic Schedule for September 24-29

 

September 24:

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

JH Volleyball @ St. Mary’s, 5:00 p.m.

 

September 25:  

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

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

 

September 26:

No Athletic Events Scheduled
 

September 27:

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

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

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

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

 

September 28:

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

 

September 29:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mason Baxter (P) over Lance Mawer 3 and 2

Breyden Bruns (P) over David Kramer 3 and 2

Nate Boley  ( C ) over Duncan Morton 1 up

Brecken Adams ( C ) over Jay Anderson 2 and 1

Andy Metz (P) over Tyler Johnson 2 and 1

 
September 21, 2018
 

Free Movie Night at Rockford United Methodist Church

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

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

office at 419-363-3230

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

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

 
September 20, 2018
 

Enjoy the Sock Hop This Weekend!

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

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

Food tent available by the Belle Crew and DJ Auto.

Bring your lawn chairs for a Rockin good time !

Free Will donations support The Belle.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
September 19, 2018
 

PANTHERS WIN AGAINST VERSAILLES!!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click here for more great shots by James Leighner

Click smaller thumbnails below to enlarge:

 
September 17-18, 2018
 

Men’s Prostate Cancer Group to Hear About Life Stages

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

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

COUNTY REMINDER

Ohio Law prohibits signs on trees and poles.

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

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

Barn Quilts for Sale in Rockford - Bicentennial Project

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

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

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

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

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

Michelle Houts, Local Author to Speak in October

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

 
September 15-16, 2018
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Widespread fog affecting many schools.

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

 
September 12-13, 2018
 

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

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

 
September 11, 2018
 

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday, September 14, 2018

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

Widespread fog affecting many schools.

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

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

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

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

(419) 363-3230

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

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

Reminder! Lima Area Concert Band Coming to Parkway High School

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

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

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

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

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

 
September 6-7, 2018
 

Poultry Winners – Van Wert County Fair

            Senior Poultry Showman Winner Trophy            Won by:         Torie Bockey

            Sponsored by:          Venedocia Lads & Lassies

            Int. Poultry Showman         Trophy            Won by:         Cody Gamble

            Sponsored by:          Delphos Pathfinders

            Junior Poultry Showmanship Winner     Trophy            Won by:         Morgan Anspach

            Sponsored by:          Carl and LaDonna Wollenhaupt

            Champion Poultry Showman        Chair  Won by:         Brooke Bockey

            Sponsored by:          Welch Trophy

            Champion Bantam Breeding Pen            Trophy            Won by:         Cody Gamble

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

            Champion Standard Breeding Pen          Trophy            Won by:         Breanna Shellabarger

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

            Champion Bantam  Trophy            Won by:         Katie Gamble

            Sponsored by:          Stoller Farms, Inc.

            Champion Large Fowl        Trophy            Won by:         Breck Evans

            Sponsored by:          Carl and LaDonna Wollenhaupt

            Best Eggs      Cash  Won by:         Trey Evans

            Sponsored by:          Davis Farms

            Second Best Eggs   Cash  Won by:         Gracie Mull

            Sponsored by:          Davis Farms

            Grand Champion Broiler Pen        Banner           Won by:         Maceyn Snyder

            Sponsored by:          Century Trading Company

            Champion Broiler Pen        Trophy            Won by:         Maceyn Snyder

            Sponsored by:          Delphos Pathfinders

            Reserve Champion Broiler Pen    Trophy            Won by:         Torie Bockey

            Sponsored by:          Westwood Family Dental

            Reserve Champion Broiler Pen    Banner           Won by:         Torie Bockey

            Sponsored by:          NO DONOR

            Grand Champion Roaster Pen     Banner           Won by:         Torie Bockey

            Sponsored by:          Flat Lands Supply

            Grand Champion Roaster Pen     Trophy            Won by:         Torie Bockey

            Sponsored by:          Westwood Family Dental

            Reserve Champion Roaster Pen  Banner           Won by:         Brooke Bockey

            Sponsored by:          Century Trading Company

            Reserve Champion Bantam          Trophy            Won by:         Katie Gamble

            Sponsored by:          Vantage FFA

            Reserve Champion Roaster Pen  Trophy            Won by:         Brooke Bockey

            Sponsored by:          Westwood Family Dental

            Reserve Chamption Large Fowl   Trophy            Won by:         Nick Evans

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

            Grand Champion Poultry Project  Trophy            Won by:         Breck Evans

            Sponsored by:          In Memory of Kenneth and Helen Mongold

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

            Sponsored by:          Staley Poultry Production LLC

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

            Sponsored by:          Van Wert SWCD

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

            Sponsored by:          Harrison Jolly Boosters

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

            Sponsored by:          Gibson's Barnyard BBQ

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

            Sponsored by:          Staley Poultry Production LLC

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

            Sponsored by:          Van Wert SWCD

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

            Sponsored by:          Harrison Jolly Boosters

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

            Sponsored by:          Gibson's Barnyard BBQ

            Saturday, September 01, 2018      Page 2 of 2

Dairy Winners- Van Wert County Fair

            Senior Dairy Showman          Trophy Won by:           Connor Sheets

            Sponsored by: Macabob Farms

            Intermediate Dairy Showman Trophy Won by:           Kaleb Kraner

            Sponsored by: Crestview FFA

            Champion Dairy Showman    Chair   Won by:           Korey Oechsle

            Sponsored by: Jandi-K Farm

            Champion Jr Holstein Female            Trophy Won by:           Korey Oechsle

            Sponsored by: Hempfling Dairy Farm

            Champion Senior Holstein Female     Chair   Won by:           Korey Oechsle

            Sponsored by: Ren Bow Farm

            Champion Jersey Female      Cash    Won by:           Grant Mefferd

            Sponsored by: William C. Weldy and Family

            Champion Holstein Female    Cash    Won by:           Korey Oechsle

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

            Grand Champion Dairy Female         Cowbell           Won by:           Korey Oechsle

            Sponsored by: Dairy Farmers of America