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June 9-13, 2021
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 16 years!
 

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

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

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

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

 
The carry-out Annual Chicken Dinner followed.

Click on smaller thumbnails below to enlarge the pictures.

There's A Rumour Going Around

by Tafi Stober

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
June 6-7, 2021
 

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

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

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

 
June 1-5, 2021
 

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

Landscaping at St. Paul’s

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

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

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

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

PICKLE BALL UPDATE
Shanes Park - Rockford, OH  

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

Any size donation accepted.

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

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vantage Adult Education Police Academy Graduates Eight

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

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

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

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

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

 
May 26-31, 2021
 

10th Anniversary of Memorial Day Celebration
by Kim Carr

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

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

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

CHIP & SEAL SEASON

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

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

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

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

Honor Flight Plans Drive Thru Veteran Celebration

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

READ, Have Fun and Stay Safe this Summer!

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

 

Summer Youth Theatre is BACK in Van Wert

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

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

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

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

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

Family Entertainment Returns To The Niswonger

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

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

Arson Investigation in Celina

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

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

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

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

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

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

·       Nicole Knippen, Ottoville High School

·       Lydia Miller, Parkway High School

·       Rileigh Rahrig, Jefferson High School

·       Samantha Sellers, Lincolnview High School

·       Damon Wiltsie, Jefferson High School

Click on smaller thumbnails below to enlarge the pictures.

 
May 20-25, 2021
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1) Why are we gathering today?

2) Do you really want to be here today?

3) What is your reason for being here today?

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

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

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

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

Member Janet Green visits with Sheriff Jeff Gray after church.

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

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

 
May 17-19, 2021
 

Sheriff Jeff Grey to Speak on Sunday, May 23

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

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

Veterans Memorial Dedication / Memorial Day Remembrance     

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

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

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

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

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

 
May 15-16, 2021
 

BRUCE ALAN CUSTER

September 24, 1961 - November 20, 2020

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

Click here for Bruce's full obituary.

Carey Fosnaugh

Benny Sapp

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rockford Lions Club Welcomes New Member

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

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

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

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

The 2020 event was cancelled due to COVID health concerns.  

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

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

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

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

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

Marlene Roebuck Retires

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

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

Congratulations Marlene !

Alex Knous to Preach on Sunday, May 16

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Love and affection must abound unconditionally.

2. Encouragement must be heard unendingly.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Western Ohio Civil War Roundtable to Meet

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

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

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

The May meeting is the final session for the year.

 
April 23-30, 2021
 

Bridge Replacement in Jefferson Township

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rockford Springfest is May 1, 2021

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

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

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

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

DITCH MAINTENANCE SPRAYING BEGINS

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

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

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

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

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

Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

Mercer County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society to Meet

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

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

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

Please come and enjoy.

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

Van Wert County Farm Focus Announces Scholarship Recipients             

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It's really good information, according to Sherry.

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

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

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

Five-Year Forecast Analytics

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

FY20 School District Cash Balance

FY19 School District Cash Balance

FY18 School District Cash Balance

FY17 School District Cash Balance

FY16 School District Cash Balance

FY15 School District Cash Balance

FY14 School District Cash Balance

National Volunteer Week: Mercer County Commissioners Issue Proclamation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Merrcer County Helath District Reports

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

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

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

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

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

Eagle Loan Joins Celina Mercer Chamber

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
April 19-22, 2021
 

4 Inches measured in Rockford

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  
Harry Frech will be Guest Speaker  

 
April 15-18, 2021
 

Death Investigation/Suicide

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Spring planting & open ditch maintenance

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

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

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

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

By Jim Wiechart, Mercer County Engineer

Mercer County, 385.7 miles of roads

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

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

Total miles driven = 61,896

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

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

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

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

               Overtime hours                         = 1,149.00 hours

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

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

                                                                        2015-2016 season = $399.54/mile

                                                                        2016-2017 season = $431.49/mile

                                                                        2017-2018 season = $699.21/mile

                                                                        2018-2019 season = $758.47/mile          

                                                                        2019-2020 season = $759.97/mile

                                                                        2020-2021 season = $998.72/mile

Road Closures (early-mid April)

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

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

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

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

Educational Event/ Job Fair

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

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

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

Rockford SpringFest – May 1st

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

VWHS Theatre Announces 2018 Production Stream

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

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

COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Line Number

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

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

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

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

Ben Neff Joins Jim Shaffer Realty in Mendon

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

 
April 1-14, 2021
 

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

Girl Scouts is Hosting Events to Welcome New Members

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

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

ROCKFORD GIRL SCOUT TROOP 20663 --   Gold Awards.  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ohio Law prohibits signs on trees and poles

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

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

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

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

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

Panther Nation grows stronger together. Businesses, Friends, and Family can support in this fundraising event by being a Family Event Sponsor for $50 (includes name on back of t-shirt) or as a Workout Station Sponsor for $100 (includes name on back of t-shirt and signage at the different workout stations). The Eye Of The Pride Sponsorship form can be found on the Parkway Athletic Booster Club Facebook page or at the Parkway High School Office. 

The Parkway Athletic Booster Club is a non-profit support organization with a mission to help aid and assist the Parkway Athletic Department in making Parkway athletics a success for all involved. Through community support, the Athletic Booster Club has been able to help with needs and facility upgrades for our athletic programs that include a yearly donation for athletic uniforms, new mats for track and field, softball press box, new football jerseys, baseball field reconditioning, volleyball net systems, wrestling warmups and uniforms, bowling uniform tops and many more. Many of these endeavors could not be done without the continued support and involvement of the Parkway community. Sponsors, participants, and spectators are encouraged to take part on May 15th as Panther Nation takes time to flex some muscle and get Stronger Together!

HIT Arrest

Celina, Ohio-Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports the arrest of 36 year old Adam Steinbrunner, 2620 Sawmill Road, Fort Recovery for possession of drugs.   Steinbrunner was stopped by  deputies while working with HIT (Heroin Interdiction Team).  HIT is a joint effort of the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, Celina Police Department and Coldwater Police Department.  HIT focuses on stopping the drug use/trafficking throughout Mercer County.

Grey advised that Steinbrunner was stopped on March 31st at 4:20 PM near Philothea and St. Peter Roads.  The stop was for failing to drive in the marked lanes of travel.  Mr. Steinbrunner was  found to have a suspended driver’s license. The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office K-9, Ossi, was called to the location and alerted to the presence of narcotics.  A subsequent search of the vehicle found a container with a hidden compartment in the bottom, inside the compartment deputies located a meth pipe and over six (6) grams of methamphetamines.  An additional meth pipe was located in the vehicle as well. 

Steinbrunner was arrested and incarcerated in the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility.  His bond was set at $50,000.00, subject to ten percent, by Celina Municipal Court Judge Kathryn Speelman. 

The case has been sent to the Mercer County Prosecutors Office for review and filing of formal charges.

Grey advised that the HIT detail resulted in Steinbrunner’s arrest, as well as two additional people arrested on outstanding warrants.  14 traffic stops were made with 7 warnings issued and 6 citations issued.   Citizens are reminded to continue to pass along drug tips to the Sheriff’s Office.  “If law enforcement and the community continue to work together, we can slow the use of drugs in this county, which makes us all safer,” stated Sheriff Grey.

 
March 29-31, 2021
 

Van Wert Health Welcomes Dr. Kalogerou and Deb Howell to Rural Health Clinic

March 30, 2021, Van Wert, OH – Van Wert Health Physician Group is pleased to welcome Paul A. Kalogerou, MD, and Deborah Howell, APRN, CNP, two Primary Care providers, to their staff at the Fox Road Rural Health Clinic. Both Kalogerou and Howell practice in Van Wert, most recently through Parkview Physicians group.

Dr. Kalogerou, who is Board Certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, has over 30 years of experience, having served the Northwest Ohio area since 1992. He graduated from medical school at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, in Little Rock, Arkansas. He then completed an internship and residency through Case Western Reserve University, at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio. “We look forward to continuing to help our patients stay well, manage chronic conditions, and prevent disease,” shared Dr. Kalogerou.  “We are especially pleased to join the competent and compassionate team of physicians and advanced practitioners at Van Wert Health.”  

Deborah Howell, a certified member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the Ohio Association of Advanced Practice Nurses, earned her Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing at Indiana State University, followed by a Master’s of Science in Nursing at Frontier Nursing University, in Hyden Kentucky.

“Dr. Kalogerou and Deb’s many years of experience, combined with their clinical skills are exceptional,” said Todd Duff, Vice President of Physician and Ambulatory Services. “Both of them provide a great blend of top-notch clinical care along with a strong passion for providing community-based care.”

For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kalogerou or Deb Howell, CNP, please call 419-232-2077.  They will begin seeing patients on Thursday, April 8.  Patients may also call Dr. Kalogerou and Deb Howell’s former office number at 419-238-7777, beginning April 8, when the phone number will be transferred over to Van Wert Health. 

The Fox Road Rural Health Clinic, part of Van Wert Health, is located in Suite 201 of the Van Wert Health Center, located at 140 Fox Road, Van Wert, Ohio.

ST ANTHONY ROAD IMPROVEMENTS
BETWEEN BURKETTSVILLE ST HENRY & ERASTUS DURBIN ROADS

Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart announced today, contingent upon weather conditions, Shinn Brothers, Inc. plan to start construction work late in the week of January 18, 2021 on a 3 mile section of St. Anthony Road from Burkettsville St. Henry Road to Erastus Durbin Road. 

The improvements involve shoulder widening and sub-surface drainage improvements.  The road will have daily road closures to through traffic for 6-8 weeks, weather depending and local access will be maintained.  The completion deadline for the project is mid-fall 2021.

Right-of-way stakes and construction staking will be placed and need to remain for the duration of the project.

Our office is available to try to answer any questions you may have about the project. 

The contact information for the Mercer County Engineer’s Office is:

4884 Mud Pike, Celina 45822

Phone: 419.586.7759

Email: engineer@mercercountyohio.org 

 
March 26-28, 2021
 

MERCER COUNTY ENGINEER DITCH MAINTENANCE ACTIVITIES

Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart is announcing that over the upcoming construction season that engineer inspection and maintenance personnel will be on-site on many of the 111 miles of Mercer County maintained open drainage ditches and 62 miles of tile throughout Mercer County.

Easements exist along specific drainage infrastructure attributes that allow the necessary evaluation and maintenance of these important drainage elements.  Such things as ditch inspection, spraying for noxious weeds and erosion repairs will occur throughout the year.  “Many people may think that a ditch or tile is solely on private property, but all of Mercer County’s ditch and tile maintenance infrastructure attributes have a maintenance easement on and around the drainage feature.  A fraction of the open ditches and tile in the unincorporated areas are on county maintenance.”  Wiechart stated.

Mercer Landmark Employee, Monty Heiby, Receives Patriotic Employer Award from U.S. Office of Secretary Defense (OSD)

On Friday, February 5th, 2021, Monty Heiby, Branch Manager at Mercer Landmark’s new Elgin facility, was presented with the Patriotic Employer Award from the U.S. Office of Secretary Defense. This prestigious award is one that is not often given out and is recognized as the highest U.S. government honor to employers for support of National Guard and Reserve employees.

The Patriotic Employer Award is one that is carefully selected by officers and awarded to an individual who contributes to National Security and Protecting our Nation’s Liberty and Freedom. Heiby was recognized for supporting his employee participating in America’s National Guard and Reserve Force and playing a critical role in the success of our country and National Defense strategy. The award showcases Heiby’s outstanding commitment to his Guard and Reserve employees, his patriotism and his contributions to the defense and security of our Nation.

Out of thousands of nominations for this prestigious award, only a handful of recipients are chosen with the honor of receiving the Patriotic Employer Award. Heiby was nominated for the award by Mercer Landmark employee, Garth Louth, who is currently serving in the Army Reserve as a Combat Engineer – a significant position and important role to our national defense. Louth has been employed by Mercer Landmark since 2012.

The award was presented to Heiby by Mercer Landmark employee, Garth Louth – Army Reserve, and U.S. Army Retired Master Sergeant Alvie Louth. Heath Barnes, CEO of Mercer Landmark, was also present for the presentation of the award.

Heiby has worked for Mercer Landmark for 30 years.

When asked why he chose to nominate Heiby for the award, Louth stated, “Monty has always been a good, understanding and supportive boss – something you won’t always find at other businesses when making the decision to join the military and defend your country. Monty has been supportive throughout the entire process and is always willing to do what it takes on Mercer Landmark’s end to make things work.”

Mercer Landmark’s Contribution to Agriculture in the Community

During the award presentation, Mercer Landmark was recognized for playing a key role in the national defense by getting products to and from individual farms and out to the supply chains that feed and support the world. The organization was also acknowledged for meeting exceptional milestones as they continue to invest in their employees, communities and open new facilities throughout Ohio.

By supporting their soldier in his decision to fight for his country, Mercer Landmark also supports the National Defense.

About Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR)

ESGR is a Department of Defense program that develops and promotes supportive work environments for Service members in the Reserve Components through outreach, recognition, and educational opportunities that increase awareness of applicable laws. It also aids in resolving conflicts between Service members and their employers. You can learn more about ESGR and the Patriotic Employer Award on their website at https://www.esgr.mil/Employer-Awards/Patriot-Award.

Brand It Marketing Receives First Place Recognition from National Agri-Marketing Association Rockford, OH (released February 10th, 2021).

Ohio marketing agency, Brand It Marketing, has received another first place award for BEST OF Region VI through the National Agri‐Marketing Association (NAMA). The Region VI first place award is for the work they produced for their client, Advanced Biological Marketing (ABM), in the three‐dimensional Direct Mail for dealers, distributors, sales reps or others serving agribusiness category. Award‐Winning “Party in a Box” Brings Celebration to Customers The award‐winning “Party in a Box” direct mail piece was developed – from concept to production to distribution – by the creative team at Brand It Marketing for their client, ABM, which was celebrating their 20th anniversary of being in business when the COVID‐19 pandemic hit. Due to COVID regulations, ABM was unable to celebrate their 20th anniversary in‐person with employees, customers and friends. The Brand It Marketing team developed the unique and exciting concept of a “Party in a Box” – filled with all things fun and relevant to help celebrate their client’s milestone anniversary. The box was filled with everything from branded hats to confetti poppers to peanuts straight from Georgia using ABM’s own highly sought‐after product. Paired with each item in the box was a handwritten message from ABM’s CEO, which had significant and heartfelt meaning, aiding in the celebrating of 20 years. “This project gave us the opportunity to help a client of ours connect and bring extra joy to their own clients in 2020 – which felt like quite the blessing given the circumstances. ”‐ Twyla Hayes, Co‐Founder and Creative Director at Brand It Marketing. Honoring the Best in Agricultural Marketing Communications The “BEST of NAMA” honors and awards the best of the best in agricultural marketing communications. All submissions to NAMA are evaluated for agricultural marketing effectiveness and creativity and are hand‐selected by a panel of roughly 50 industry experts. The BEST OF NAMA competition originated in 1988 to honor outstanding work by NAMA members, while educating members of the agriculture industry and featuring top‐of‐the‐line advertising. These awards have helped to raise the quality of the agricultural industry’s overall communication efforts throughout the years. Brand It Marketing will advance to compete at the National level for this award.  

 
March 18-25, 2021
 

PEA Offering Education Scholarship

The Parkway Education Association (PEA) will be offering a $1000 scholarship to a Parkway alumnus that is in college/university studying to become an educator.  Requirements for the scholarship are:

1)  Applicants must be enrolled as a full-time college sophomore, junior, or senior for the upcoming fall semester (2021).

2)  Applicant must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher

3)  Applicant must be enrolled in teacher education classes.  

4)  Applicant must be a graduate of Parkway High School or be the son/daughter of a PEA member.

5)  Applications are due by March 31, 2021.

Any interested applicants should complete the form at: https://forms.gle/6XpDXv9bZS65tVE57

Any inquiries can be e-mailed to parkwayeducationassociation@gmail.com .

Prepare Protect Peace – Human Trafficking Outreach Event Coming

In the past, New Horizons Community Church held an event about human trafficking. We are excited to announce an Outreach Event to take place on Saturday, March 27th from 12:00 - 4:00. This outreach is for anyone ages high school freshman through age 24. We will have presenters education about human trafficking, situational awareness, and teach hands-on self defense. Limited space is available. To sign-up for this FREE event please call the church office at 419-363-2064 or email office@nhccrockford.com

Special Meeting Called of Parkway School Board
submitted by Sally Cox

The Parkway Local School Board has called a special meeting for Monday, March 29 at 6:30 p.m. in the community room.  The purpose of the meeting will be to go into executive session to discuss the appointment or evaluation of personnel.  No business will be conducted after the executive session.

Bridge to Close in Liberty Township
The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Oregon Road between Township Line Road and Erastus Durbin Road in Liberty Township for a culvert replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on March 30, 2021 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 2-3 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

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

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – March 25, 2021

By Kristi Fryman

CELINA- As of March 25, 2021, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 3,928 confirmed cases, 736 probable cases, 3,791 recovered cases, 0 hospitalizations, 84 COVID-19 deaths, and 19 probable deaths of COVID-19. There have been 34 confirmed cases that have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19. Currently, there are 16 known active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County. 

Today, Mercer County was upgraded to a level 2 on the Ohio Public Health Advisory System issued by the Ohio Department of Health because our two-week new case incidence rate increased slightly to 51 cases per 100,000 population.  This is just above the level 2 threshold of 50 cases per 100,000 population. The MCHD encourages as many residents as possible to get vaccinated and take other routine precautions to prevent a significant resurgence in COVID-19 activity in our area.

The MCHD will not be offering a first dose vaccination clinic next week due to the Easter Holiday weekend. Only second doses will be administered on Wednesday, March 31. The next first dose clinic will be offered on Wednesday, April 7. Further information on that clinic will be released next week.

Allen County Public Health (ACPH) will begin holding mass COVID-19 vaccine clinics next Wednesday, March 31.  These clinics will be held Wednesday through Saturday each week and will provide the single-dose Johnson & Johnson/Janssen vaccine. Appointments can be made for anyone 18 years old and older using the state scheduling tool found at https://gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov/.

Van Wert County General Health District reports
by Britt Menchhofer
On March 25, 2021, the Van Wert County General Health District reports an additional death of a resident of Van Wert County who tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total number of deaths for county residents to 54.  The Van Wert County General Health District would like to express our deepest sympathies for the family and friends of the deceased.  The age range of the deceased is 60-69 years.  The health department reports an increase of 8 confirmed cases of COVID-19 since Thursday, March 18, 2021 for a total of 2274 confirmed cases.  We have no know hospitalizations at this time.  To date the health department has given 8,317  COVID-19 vaccinations.  The next walk-in vaccination clinic is March 31, 2021 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm at Lifehouse Church.  Moderna vaccine will be available that day for all those age 18 and above.  The health department is not making appointments at this time, as all clinics are walk-in only.  The public can also contact Family Healthcare of Northwest Ohio at 419-238-6747 and Van Wert Family Physicians at 419-238-6251 to schedule an appointment.   

Rockford Ohio Chamber of Commerce to host Spring Festival on May 1, 2021
Marcia Ripley will be honored at a Retirement Party


(Rockford, OH - March 22, 2021) The Main Street Rockford committee through the Rockford Ohio Chamber of
Commerce has been developing a community event, SpringFest which is slated to take place Saturday May 1, 2021
from 9:00 am- 4:00 pm. This event will provide opportunities to bring awareness to businesses offerings, specials,
discounts and activities while also providing entertainment and recreational opportunities for the Rockford
community at large.
 

SpringFest activities include a book sale and a Mother’s Day craft at the Rockford Carnegie Library, wood-grain art
show located inside of Ohio’s Edge Realty, the Rockford Museum will be open to the public and bicentennial
souvenirs will be available to purchase, free petting zoo, open house at the Fire Department, a business decorating
contest, and an open-air vendor market will return. Music and entertainment will be available at Second Crossing
Brew Co. Activities and events are continually being added and community members are encouraged to follow the
Rockford Ohio Chamber of Commerce on Facebook at fb.com/rcoc.

Businesses are also encouraged to participate in this event by creating special discounts, sales, drinks, sandwiches,
doing giveaways, raffling off products, etc or also by participating in co-sponsoring an event to help reduce costs. To
make a donation, become a sponsor or get involved, please contact Lisa Kuhn at lisa.kuhn@rockfordohio.org or
Marie Miller at marie@themarketingjunkie.com with questions. Angela Heck at Rockford Carry Out & Catering is
the point of contact for all vendor market needs. You can find her contact information on the vendor forms.
 

A special retirement party will be held for Marcia Ripley of Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home the same day from 1:00 -
3:00 PM. Event details are forthcoming. Community members are invited to stop by and celebrate Ripley’s
retirement and provide well wishes.

 

Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

Youth groups to collect litter

Motorists are asked to use caution in the next few months as youth community groups will be picking up litter in the ditches along many Mercer County Roads.

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart issued the warning recently to protect the various groups of people who will be participating in the Litter Pick-up Program this spring.  “Clean-up crews are set to begin work in late March and typically complete the project by late spring,” Wiechart said. 

The litter pick-up program is a joint project funded by the County Engineer’s Office and Township Trustees who pay recognized civic and community groups who participate.  Safety vests, gloves, bags and disposal fees are funded by the Mercer County Solid Waste District and the Ohio EPA.

Hopkins Attains National Advocate Credential

CELINA – Erin Hopkins, Victims Advocate for Family Crisis Network, successfully completed renewal of certification as a Credential Advocate (CA) for victims of crime. CA certification is awarded by the National Organization for Victim Assistance (NOVA) to professionals who demonstrate a dedication to serve populations victimized by crime, and can provide documentation of personal experience and training related to best practices in the field. These credentials are reviewed every two years. Renewal of the NOVA credential validates Hopkins’ on-going commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of victims and survivors of crime.

Hopkins joined Our Home Family Resource Center’s Family Crisis Network team in July 2016 and serves as both victims advocate and domestic violence shelter monitor.  She is a graduate of Wright State University with a Bachelor of Science degree.  She has also certified through Ohio Advocate Network (OAN) as a Registered Advocate (RA). Hopkins lives in Celina with her husband and children.

Our Home Family Resource Center is a non-profit agency which serves the Mercer County community.  Among its services are advocacy, shelter, and support for victims of domestic violence; emergency financial assistance and food pantry services for income-eligible families; and supervised visitation services to enable non-custodial parents to spend time with their children. Learn more about Our Home at www.ourhomefrc.com 

 
March 16-17, 2021
Happy St. Patrick's Day!
 

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

Parkway Schools are on a
2 hour delay due to fog
for Wednesday, March 17, 2021

Parkway Preschool 2021 - 2022

The Parkway School Public Preschool program is in its 30th year and is now accepting applications for the 21-22 preschool.  This program is supported by a grant from the Ohio Department of Education and is part of the overall Parkway Local Schools education system.  Each class employs a certified teacher and classroom aide. 

To complete a registration form, please go to our website at www.parkwayschools.org and click on Schools, then Preschool.  Here is where you will find our online preschool registration form.

Once the registration is received, a $25 fee (check payable to Parkway Preschool or cash) will be needed to complete your child's registration and receive the necessary forms to finalize enrollment.  Until the registration is paid, your enrollment is NOT locked in.  Once the registration fee is paid, you will be emailed the other required forms that may be completed online.  Certified birth certificate, immunizations and social security card copies will also need to be turned in before school begins in the fall.

Students who are currently enrolled in preschool for the 2020 - 2021 school year must also submit an application and pay the $25 registration fee for the 2021-2022 school year.

Our grant program offers financial assistance for those who qualify. Limited grant money is available for the 2021-2022 school year.   Free or reduced tuition can only be awarded to students who will be 4 years of age by August 1, 2021.  

We also offer a preschool classroom in conjunction with The Mercer County Educational Service Center. The Ohio Department of Education allows us to have eight children with special needs in the AM and PM and eight typical children in the AM and PM sessions, making a total of 16 children per session. Our preschool classrooms are in session four half days, Monday through Thursday. 

If you have further questions, please call Michelle Tribolet at 419-363-3045 ext. 720. 

Parkway Elementary Kindergarten Registration

Parkway Elementary is currently taking registration for 2021-2022 Kindergarten students.  Students need to be five years old before August 1 to be eligible to attend.  Parents or guardians requesting open enrollment for their kindergarten student to Parkway Local Schools should also register at this time.

If your child is new to Parkway Local Schools, we will need the following brought to the school after your child has been registered: the official birth certificate, social security card, immunization records, one form of proof of residency and any court documents pertaining to the custody/guardianship of the student (divorce, foster, etc.)  The birth certificate is from the Department of Vital Statistics (if born in Ohio, from any Ohio county health department) where a fee will be charged.  The hospital complimentary birth certificate will not be accepted.  

Immunizations are required to be documented by the 15th day of school for the 2021-2022 school year.  All students entering kindergarten in the fall will need to be registered no later than April 20.  A screening will be done at a later date. Please call Michelle in the elementary office at 419-363-3045 ext. 720 to register.

Rockford -  Shanes Park Easter Egg Hunt

Saturday - April 3rd - 1 pm

Bring your own basket

Age Groups up to 10

Easter Bunny will hand out eggs to 3 and under.

Sponsored by Shanes Park Board

Statewide Tornado Drill is March 24, 2021 at 9:50 AM

Calvary Evangelical Church

Man Arrested for Importuning
Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey today announced the arrest of 60 year old Kevin Joseph Fullenkamp of 2240 Burkettsville – St. Henry Road, St. Henry, Ohio.   Grey advised that his office was contacted on February 16th, 2021 by a detective from the Newbury Police Department in Newbury, Massachusetts.  The detective stated that he was a member of the ICAC team (Internet Crimes Against Children).

The ICAC Team had be receiving communications from Fullenkamp since November.  Fullenkamp believed that he was communicating with a 13 year old girl including sending sexually explicit photos. Fullenkamp engaged in sexually explicit conversations with the ICAC Detective whom Fullenkamp believed to be the 13 year old girl.  Fullenkamp indicated that he wished to meet her in person.

Mercer County Sheriff Detectives then opened an investigation and information was shared between the ICAC detective and Mercer County.  After gathering the information Mercer County detectives consulted with the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office.  After review, the Prosecutor’s Office prepared charges.

Fullenkamp was arrested this morning and booked into the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility on charges of Importuning a Felony of the fifth degree and Disseminating Matter Harmful to Juveniles also a Felony of the fifth degree.  Bond has been set at $50,000.00 subject to 10% by Celina Municipal Court Judge Kathryn Speelman. 

The detectives also applied for and received a search warrant for Fullenkamp’s residence.  The search warrant was executed after the arrest this morning and several items of evidence were recovered.

Bridge to Close
The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Fast Road between Hoenie Road and US 127 in Hopewell Township for a culvert replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on March 17, 2021 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 2 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

News Release for Farm Focus Inc. Scholarship

Farm Focus Inc. was founded in 1974 to promote agriculture in Van Wert

County and the surrounding area. It is their continued mission to assist Van Wert

County students through a scholarship program that will enable them to pursue a

degree in an agricultural related field.
                                                                                   

Farm Focus Inc. is offering a minimum of three scholarships ranging from $500 to $1,000 to high school seniors interested in majoring in an Agricultural related program at a university, college, or technical school.

In addition to seniors, full time students already enrolled in an undergraduate program

in agriculture are also eligible to apply. This also means that a successful applicant  

from previous years can reapply again this year.

The applicant must be a Van Wert County resident. Minimum grade point is 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Scholarship funds will be submitted directly to the educational institution by Farm Focus Inc. upon receipt of proof of enrollment or a copy of a tuition invoice.

 

Scholarship applications have been sent to all nine area high schools where Van Wert

County students may be enrolled, so please contact your High School Guidance

Counselor, or FFA Instructor for your scholarship application. 

 

 The application is available at the OSU Van Wert County Extension office at 1055 South Washington Street, Van Wert OH 45891, or email; FarmFocusScholarship@gmail.com .   Scholarship application is in a PDF file format and can be emailed or put on a jump drive. Questions should be emailed.

All completed applications must be emailed, mailed and postmarked or delivered in person no later than April 9,2021 to the OSU Van Wert County Extension Office.

 
March 14-15, 2021
 

Executive Session to be Held
The Parkway Local Schools Board of Education will hold a Special Meeting on Monday, March 15, 2021 at 6:30 p.m.  in the Community Room.  The purpose of the meeting will be to go into executive session.  No business will be acted upon after the executive session.  

Daylight Saving Time begins on Sunday, March 14, 2021, at 2:00 A.M.  
On Saturday evening, our clocks need to “spring forward” one hour.

Van Wert Health to Lift Some Visitor Restrictions

Van Wert, OH – Van Wert Health, which first implemented visitor restrictions in March 2020 to help control the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses, today announced it will begin to lift some of those restrictions.  The new visitation guidelines detailed below go into effect Friday, February 26.

Visiting hours are daily from 8 AM - 7 PM.

Pediatric Inpatient
Two healthy adult primary caregivers may accompany pediatric patients. Caregivers are invited to stay in a patient's room for the entire duration of a patient's stay.

Adult Inpatient

One healthy visitor, age 18 or older, at a time may accompany each adult inpatient during visiting hours (8 AM - 7 PM).  No visitors are allowed for adult patients who have tested positive for COVID-19 or are being evaluated for COVID-19.

Adult Emergency Services
Two healthy visitors at a time may accompany each adult patient.  No visitors are allowed for patients who have tested positive for or are being evaluated for COVID-19.

Pediatric Emergency Services

Two healthy visitors at a time may accompany each pediatric patient. Siblings under age 18 are not permitted at this time.

Labor and Delivery
Mothers laboring and delivering may have a support person throughout their stay, who is invited for the entire duration of a patient's stay.  One additional healthy adult visitor, age 18 or older, at a time may be present during visiting hours (8 AM - 7 PM).

Surgery and Procedures
One healthy visitor, age 18 or older, is allowed to accompany each adult patient to a procedure or same-day surgery.

Two adult primary caregivers may accompany each pediatric patient to an outpatient procedure or surgery.

All Patients at End of Life
Patients who are nearing end of life may have additional visitors present.

Pastoral Care
Pastoral visits and clergy support from a patient’s own faith community are always welcome and will not “count” toward a patient’s approved visitors for the day.

As Van Wert Health begins this phased approach, we continue to support proper social distancing and masking guidelines.  For more information about the added measures Van Wert Health is taking to ensure the safety of its patients, visitors, and staff members, please visit: vanwerthealth.org/patients-visitors/visiting-guidelines

St. Paul’s UCC reopens with Doug Rich

St. Paul’s UCC of Rockford, Ohio welcomed Doug Rich to the pulpit on March 7th as the congregation returned to worship. Doug filled the sanctuary with a meaningful message drawing attention to a very specific part of the Lord’s Prayer, the word “as.” Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors. He went on to explain that we must forgive to be forgiven. In God’s eyes, all sin is equal and God will measure us like we measure others. Sin is a slippery slope but God’s word ensures us that we are not alone. God’s love is not conditional. God can’t stand sin but he also cannot stand being separated from his children. Doug reminded the parishioners that we have seen dark times but the church is the light and light is stronger in the darkness. He offered a reminder that it is not our job to judge or condemn but we must forgive. Members of St. Paul's UCC, 1538 Oregon Rd, Rockford, OH invite the community to worship on Sunday mornings at 10 AM with them.

Mercer County Ohio Genealogical Society to host Local author
The Mercer County Ohio Genealogical Society will meet Sunday, April 11 at 2 pm at the Richardson-Bretz Building, located at 119 West  Fulton Street, Celina, OH.

Our speaker for this meeting will be John Eric Vining, a local author, speaker and historian from the Wren, Ohio area.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, seating is limited to 30 attendees for this event.  Social distancing will be maintained in the seating layout. Masks are required of those attending. 

The meeting is free and open to the public.

Van Wert Health Announces Scholarship Program

Van Wert, OH – Van Wert Health is pleased to announce a scholarship opportunity for 2021 graduating high school students.  The Medical and Healthcare Scholarship Program was founded to support the growth and development of students from all sectors of the human healthcare industry.

“We are honored to offer this scholarship again this year, which reflects the importance of supporting the education of our future healthcare professionals,” said Jim Pope, President and CEO of Van Wert Health. “We have been reminded how vital healthcare workers are to our community over the past year.  These scholarships will be meaningful to the individuals who have made the thoughtful decision to dedicate their lives to the healthcare profession and caring for others.”

The Van Wert Health Medical and Healthcare Scholarship awards $1,000 to five graduating high school seniors, to be used towards the expenses of tuition, books, and other fees for healthcare related post-secondary education. The scholarship is renewable for $1,000 per year, up to 4 years.

Applications are due April 19, 2021. Printed copies of the application are available at all local high schools or available online at vanwerthealth.org/scholarship. Applicants with questions are encouraged to reach out to their school counselor or Van Wert Health’s Community Relations Department at 419-238-8623.

FEEL GOOD FRIDAYS AT FOUNTAIN PARK BAND ROSTER

JUNE 4 - THE SWON BROTHERS: This country duo has been thrilling audiences long before their appearance as finalists on NBC’s The Voice and have released a repertoire of amazing songs since, including their Top 15 HIT, “Later On,” from their self-titled major-label debut. They’ve played for hundreds of thousands of fans as part of Carrie Underwood’s Storyteller Tour and Brad Paisley’s Country Nation World Tour, as well as their own headlining shows.

JUNE 11 - RUMOURS: A FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE: Rumours' lead singer Mekenzie Jackson was bewitched by the music of Fleetwood Mac at a young age. She can duplicate the iconic lead singer Stevie Nick's voice so well that she and Rumours effortlessly transport audiences to the height of Fleetwood Mac’s amazing success. The sensational voices of Rumours accomplished musicians recreate the signature harmonies; and along with their expert instrumentation, stage moves and wardrobe, replicate those magical moments in music history that Fleetwood Mac fans cherish and can now relive again and again.

JUNE 18 - THE VAN DELLS: The Van-Dells are a masterful musical tribute to the ’50s and ’60s. The show begins in the ’50s. Dressed in letter sweaters, The Van-Dells hit the stage running with songs like At The Hop and Morse Code of Love, along with Doo-Wop favorites, and never slow down. The non-stop show continues with “Glitter and Gold” that made the 1960's famous. The audience will be taken on a nostalgic trip through time reliving the magical era. The Van-Dells have been called “The 3 Stooges set to music”.

JUNE 25 - FAREWELL ANGELINA: Farewell Angelina is an all-female country group with powerhouse vocalists, dynamic songwriters, and accomplished multi-instrumentalists. Their stellar blend of heart-stopping harmonies over blazing double violins and guitars has earned soaring praise across the board. Roughstock calls them a "Superstar Act... with Killer Songs." Rolling Stone says, "Wickedly smart songwriting delivered with a healthy dash of sass... deft playing... into one sonic knockout punch." They've been named among Rolling Stone's "New Artists You Need To Know," and Roughstock's "Ones to Watch" with a tour schedule to prove it. The girls have opened shows for the likes of Kenny Chesney, Old Dominion, Frankie Ballard, Jake Owen, Billy Currington, Maroon 5, and Trace Adkins, to name a few.

JULY 2 - PEACHERINE RAGTIME SOCIETY ORCHESTRA: The Peacherine Ragtime Society Orchestra is the leading professional ragtime orchestra in the United States. Under the direction of virtuoso Andrew Greene, PRSO recreates the syncopated stylings of a bygone era - Ragtime, Theater, and Dance music using an immense archive of over 15,000 original orchestral scores. The patriotic concert program will also include the music of the late 1800s and early 1900s, with selections by composers such as Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, W.C. Handy, Eubie Blake, George M. Cohan, and of course, the King of Ragtime, Scott Joplin.

JULY 9 - SHINING STAR: Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute: This timeless musical recreation of Earth, Wind & Fire's music and the show is based on the '70s thru '80s, the peak time of Earth, Wind & Fire's magical career, and the highly acclaimed live recordings of their concerts.  This show's playlist has been hailed as the definitive collection of Earth, Wind & Fire's top-charting hits, and includes best-loved songs such as After The Love Is Gone, Sing A Song, September, Got To Get You Into My Life, their namesake Shining Star, along with disco tracks, Boogie Wonderland, and Let's Groove Tonight.  This show is the closest and ONLY production to embody the aura, costuming, moves, and vocalization styles of this supergroup.  The magic, the versatility, the vocals, the essence, the songs, the energy, the horns, and the spirit.
 

JULY 16 - WALDEN: Hailing from Athens, Georgia, Walden emerged as the city’s newest rock sound. The band quickly captured the college town’s attention. Walden has burst onto the scene with many major festival appearances across the nation. These four young men quickly become one of the biggest upcoming musical acts in the southeast, capturing the attention of audiences of all ages with their raw sound, infectious energy, and the undeniable connection they share on stage. Comprised of Richard Becker (vocals/guitar), Jamie de Lange (bass), Eric Hangartner, (vocals/piano), and Andrew Mendel (drums) the quartet has remained just that ever since. While each shares a dream of traveling the world creating music, they are drawn together by a common understanding to navigate through the perpetual noise that pervades everyday life in search of something else - something of true purpose and meaning - a sense of truly feeling alive.

JULY 23 - THAT ARENA ROCK SHOW: That Arena Rock Show is the ultimate high energy tribute to "Classic" Rock N' Roll . . . Performing legendary rock anthems that ruled the airwaves in the 70s and 80s that include artists, Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, AC/DC, Bon Jovi, Guns N Roses, and more.  This show takes a trip back in time, turning Fountain Park into an arena for a night!  Get your lighters out and your fist in the air.  This rock show is more than just music - it’s an experience!  "These guys are so great at recapturing the excitement of the greatest arena rock shows of all time that they will make every hair on your body stand on end; even those you may have lost!  Now THAT is powerful!”  
 

JULY 30 - HEART BY HEART Steve Fossen and Michael Derosier, bassist and drummer for the band Heart during the 70s and early 80s, are now touring as Heart By Heart. "Our mission is to perform the classic Heart music as faithfully as we can," Fossen says. The band features vocalist Somar Macek, guitarist/keyboardist/vocalist Lizzy Daymont and guitarist Chad Quist. Heart By Heart presents a powerful, dynamic show that includes all the favorite Heart hits as well as deep album cuts that fans will love. Fossen and Derosier are the powerful driving engine behind Heart's classic hits like Barracuda, Straight On, Crazy On You, Magic Man, Even It Up, Dog & Butterfly, Heartless, Kick It Out, and more. First formed by Steve Fossen in 1969, Heart went on to release six top-10 albums and landed 20 hit singles on the Billboard top 40 charts. In recognition of their contributions to these iconic recordings, and to Heart’s first seven years of national and international touring, Fossen and Derosier were inducted into The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with the rest of the original Heart lineup in 2013.
 

AUGUST 6 - BUILDING 429 GRAMMY®-nominated band Building 429 - comprised of Jason Roy, Michael Anderson, Jesse Garcia, and Aaron Branch - is one of Christian music’s top artists with high-energy live shows, lyrically-driven, anthemic songs, and a consistent message of hope through Christ. Known for writing songs about big faith showing up in everyday moments, Building 429’s dynamic new single, “Fear No More,” encourages the listener to hold fast to faith in the midst of life’s inevitable setbacks

Feel Good Friday Concerts begin at 7:30 PM and are a BYOC (Bring Your Own Chair) event. Blankets on the Fountain Park lawn work well too. Come early and hang out in downtown Van Wert before the concerts to shop and dine. Safety protocols will be announced prior to the first concert in coordination with the Van Wert Health Department. Find more information at vanwertlive.com.

 
March 12-13, 2021
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 16 years!
 

Springfest is being planned
for Sunday May 1, 2021
in Downtown Rockford.

More details to follow by Rockford Chamber of Commerce.
Plan now to join in the fun.

Prepare Protect Peace – Human Trafficking Outreach Event Coming

In the past, New Horizons Community Church held an event about human trafficking. We are excited to announce an Outreach Event to take place on Saturday, March 27th from 12:00 - 4:00. This outreach is for anyone ages high school freshman through age 24. We will have presenters education about human trafficking, situational awareness, and teach hands-on self defense. Limited space is available. To sign-up for this FREE event please call the church office at 419-363-2064 or email office@nhccrockford.com

Wednesday, March 17, MCHD COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic

Vaccine Type: Moderna

Time: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Location: Mercer County Fairgrounds

NEW REGISTRATION INFORMATION:

Individuals who are 50 years of age and older or who are otherwise eligible under Phase 1 or Phase 2 of the COVID-19 vaccination program can be vaccinated during this clinic.

Register online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mchd-covid-19-drive-thru-clinic-march-17-2021-tickets-145734693391

Online registration will open at 8:00 AM on Saturday, March 13.

Anyone unable to register online can make an appointment by calling 567-890-2619. Phone registration will be available from noon to 3:00 PM on Monday, March 15, and Tuesday, March 16.

 
March 1-11, 2021
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 16 years!
 

The Rockford Bicentennial Committee will meet on Monday, March 1 at 7:00pm in the Village Hall.  Attendees are urged to follow COVID guidelines.

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

Van Wert County COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic Announcement

The next COVID-19 vaccination clinic will be Thursday, March 11, 2021 from 2:00 to 6:00 PM at the Van Wert County Council on Aging.  The clinic will be walk-in only and no appointments will be made.  The health department will have 200 Moderna and 200 Johnson & Johnson to distribute.  Each vaccine will be available until the supply is gone.  Only those age 60 and above or with other qualifying conditions or professions as listed below:

Ohioans born with or who have early childhood conditions that are carried into adulthood which put them at a higher risk for adverse outcomes due to COVID-19.

Sickle cell anemia.

Down syndrome.

Cystic fibrosis.

Muscular dystrophy.

Cerebral palsy.

Spina bifida.

People born with severe heart defects, requiring regular specialized medical care.

People with severe type 1 diabetes, who have been hospitalized for this in the past year.

Phenylketonuria (PKU), Tay-Sachs, and other rare, inherited metabolic disorders.

Epilepsy with continuing seizures; hydrocephaly; microcephaly, and other severe neurological disorders.

Turner syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, and other severe genetic disorders.

People with severe asthma, who have been hospitalized for this in the past year.

Alpha and beta thalassemia

Solid organ transplant candidates and recipients.

Adults/employees in K-12 schools

1C Medical Conditions

People with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. 

Bone marrow transplant recipients.

These are sometimes also called hematopoietic cell or stem cell transplants, and these patients are undergoing treatment primarily for cancer and certain anemias, and they face an increased risk of severe COVID-19 illness.

This group does NOT include the kind of stem-cell injections people might receive for the treatment of orthopedic problems, especially for their knees. 

People with type 1 diabetes.

Pregnant women.

Child care services: Staff members at child care centers and pre-kindergarten programs who have regular, ongoing direct contact with children enrolled in these programs.

Administrators, lead and assistant teachers, and substitute teachers enrolled in Ohio’s Professional Registry who are currently working in open child care or pre-kindergarten programs. 

Licensing specialists employed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services or a county job and family services agency. 

The program does NOT include parent volunteers, board members, or owners/administrators who do not provide in-classroom support.

Funeral services: This group includes licensed staff and active apprentices in the funeral services industry.

Embalmers/morticians.

Funeral home directors.

Crematory operators.

Apprentices.

Law enforcement and corrections officers:

Police officers.

Sheriff’s deputies.

Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers.

Special jurisdiction officers: Other state or federal enforcement officers such as Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) enforcement staff, pharmacy board investigators, BCI agents, state fire marshal investigators, federal transportation security officers, and other federal law enforcement officers who do not have access to vaccination from federal sources.

Corrections staff: Eligible are corrections staff, including probation and parole staff, who provide direct services to an adult or juvenile inmate or court-supervised individuals.

Firefighters: Individuals who have a valid active firefighting certificate in the State of Ohio who are active members or employees of a recognized fire department. This does not include retired, emeritus or reserve individuals.

Family Healthcare of Northwest Ohio is also distributing vaccine.  Please call Family Health Care to schedule an appointment at 419-238-6747.    

For more information in the future, please continue to monitor the Van Wert County Health Department website, www.vanwertcountyhealth.org as well as local news media and social media.       

The Parkway Board of Education meeting scheduled for Monday, March 8 at 6:30 p.m. will now be a public meeting instead of a virtual meeting.  Public will once again be allowed to attend in person, per Sally Cox.

Parkway School Board Agenda for a Regular Meeting 6:30
by Sally Cox

Calvary Evangelical Church Re-opens

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – March 9, 2021

CELINA- As of March 9, 2021, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 3,901 confirmed cases, 733 probable cases, 3,774 recovered cases, 0 pending cases, 3 hospitalizations, 81 COVID-19 deaths, and 19 probable deaths of COVID-19. There have been 27 confirmed cases who have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19. Currently, there are 17 known active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County. 

The COVID-19 vaccine clinic scheduled for tomorrow is fully booked. Further information for the clinic for next week will be released on Thursday, March 11.

The MCHD has been conducting our vaccine clinics since late December 2020 with our drive-thru operations beginning in Mid-January. The MCHD would like to express our gratitude and appreciation to our community, county, and state partners as well as our volunteers for their assistance with our clinics.

As a reminder, we will only be releasing updates on COVID-19 cases in Mercer County on Tuesdays and Thursdays until further notice. Our cases continue to decrease but we ask for our community to remain diligent in taking precautions to protect our most vulnerable friends and neighbors as they get vaccinated.

 
January 19, 2021 through March 10. 2021
The editor was hospitalized with COVID.
She is working below to get this updated with the past 6 weeks of news.
Her contact email is at the top of this page.
 

Umpire Classes
The Mid-west Buckeye Umpires' Association will  be hosting a training course for prospective baseball umpires interested in earning OHSAA certification for the upcoming 2021 season. Anyone ages 14+ is eligible to enroll in the class. Cost of the course is $135 - which includes all instructional materials, OHSAA membership fees, rule books, and annual MBUA membership. Classes will be held on Tuesday & Wednesday evenings from 6:00-9:00pm through March 20th. Due to COVID-19, much of the instruction will be presented virtually through Zoom Meetings. The first class will be held in-person at Van Wert HS on Wednesday, February 17th at 6:00pm. Course registration and payment can be completed online by visiting www.myohsaa.org and clicking on the "REGISTER" link at the top of the page. Once you have created a free account, click on "Select a Course" and search for "Baseball - Van Wert." For more information, contact Ryan Thompson at (419)305-0426.

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

Parkway Schools Delays during this time period.

Jan. 26, 2021 - no school - icy roads

Feb. 1 and 2 - no school - bad roads

Feb. 5 - no school 

Feb. 11 and 12 - both 2 hour delays

Feb. 15 and 16 - no school

Feb. 17 - 2 hour delay

Feb. 18 - no school

Feb. 19 - 2 hour delay

Feb. 22 - 3 hour delay

Mercer County Sheriff's Office Snowstorm Activity

Tuesday, February 2, 2021 at 5:48 AM

Advisory: Please use caution while driving in Mercer County. Roadways are icy with blowing and drifting snow.

Thursday, February 4, 2021 at 7:09 PM

Alert: Sheriff Grey has issued a level 1 snow alert for all of Mercer County. Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Use caution

Friday, February 5, 2021 at 5:06 AM

Alert: Mercer Co remains under a Level 1 snow alert. Roadways are icy with blowing and drifting snow.

Friday, February 5, 2021 at 7:33 AM

Alert: Level 1 snow emergency cancelled.

Wed, Feb 10 2021 5:12 PM

Alert: Please use caution while driving in Mercer County. Roadways are becoming icy with blowing and drifting snow.

Mon, Feb 15 2021 5:08 AM

Alert: Please use caution while driving in Mercer County. Roadways are snow covered and slick.

Mon, Feb 15 2021 4:03 PM

Alert: Sheriff Grey has issued a level 1 snow alert for all of Mercer County. Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Use caution.

Mon, Feb 15 2021 6:01 PM

Alert: Sheriff Grey has issued a level 2 snow alert for all of Mercer County. Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Use caution

Mon, Feb 15 2021 9:04 PM

Alert: Sheriff Grey has issued a Level 3 Snow Alert for Mercer County effective at 10pm.

Tue, Feb 16 2021 5:11 AM

Alert: Mercer County remains under a level 3 snow emergency. County and township roads are impassible. State routes have blowing and drifting snow

Tue, Feb 16 2021 6:16 AM

Alert: Mercer County government offices are closed today due to the weather & road conditions

Tue, Feb 16 2021 8:44 AM

Mercer Co Sheriff Jeff Grey will be downgrading to a Level 1 snow level as of 10am. Township Rd may be impassable but Co Rds and St Rtes are passable.

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

 
January 14-18, 2021
 

Parkway School Text Alerts

  Due to NOACSC’s Ohio Text Alerts not able to send to AT&T and Sprint
  Providers, the NOACSC has announced the end of OHIO Text Alerts by
  June 2021.
  We will now be migrating to a new Text Alert System called
  One Call Now. All Parents, Teachers, and Staff Members have been added
  to the new System.

  ON FRIDAY, JANUARY 15TH, AT 1:00, we will be
  sending a Phone, Email, and Text Alert with One Call Now. If you do
  not receive this alert, please go to our website under Parents>”One
  Call Now” Text Alerts and click on the Self Update Portal. You can
  then Sign up and edit your contact information to receive future Text
  Alerts from Parkway Local Schools. In the portal you can also add
  yourself to subgroups for sporting events and other extracurricular
  announcements.

COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution for Phase 1B Procedures

Click here for details:   https://mchdohio.org/health-services/2019-novel-coronavirus/ 

CELINA- The MCHD continues to plan for the COVID-19 vaccine distribution for the Phase 1B population and is announcing our procedures for future drive-thru clinics.

As a reminder, we are following the guidance provided by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH):

Beginning the week of January 18, people who are 80 years of age or older will be eligible to receive the vaccine.  At this time, the clinic that is scheduled for Wednesday, January 20, 2021 is fully booked. MCHD is no longer taking appointments for this clinic.

Beginning the week of January 25, people who are 75 years of age or older will be eligible to receive the vaccine.

Also beginning the week of January 25, those who have severe congenital, developmental, or early onset medical disorders will be eligible to receive the vaccine. Further information on how these individuals will be able to receive their vaccinations will be announced soon.

Beginning February 1, people who 70 years of age or older will be eligible to receive the vaccine.  School employees will also be eligible February 1.

Beginning February 8, people who are 65 years of age or older will be eligible to receive the vaccine.

According to the plan established by the Ohio Department of Health, people in each age group will become eligible to receive the vaccine on the dates above, regardless of whether everyone in the previous age group has been vaccinated.  Due to the limited supply of doses, it will take weeks to vaccinate everyone in Phase 1B.

At this time, we are planning on holding weekly COVID-19 vaccine clinics on Wednesdays at the Mercer County Fairgrounds. Individuals will be required to register online through Eventbrite or by calling the MCHD office at 567-890-2619. The MCHD will publicly announce related information each Monday. Registration will open at noon on Tuesdays, and MCHD staff will be available to assist with registration over the phone until 3:00 PM.  No appointments will be scheduled before noon on Tuesday.  Weekly vaccination clinics may be canceled due to inclement weather or insufficient supply of vaccine.

The MCHD appreciates the patience and cooperation from our community as we continue to navigate through this process. The MCHD office will be closed on Monday, January 18 in observance of Martin Luther King Day.

Mercer Health releases Vaccination Registration Details

Mercer Health is now taking registrations for the COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic which will be held next Thursday, January 21st and Friday, January 22nd.  Individuals who are 80 years of age or older are eligible for this Phase 1B distribution as a part of Ohio’s Vaccination Distribution Plan.   In addition, individuals must reside in the State of Ohio and Mercer County, unless the recipient is an established patient of Mercer Health.  For example, if the recipient resides in any Ohio county, such as Darke County, but are an established Mercer Health patient, the individual would be eligible.

Registration and additional information is available online at https://mercer-health.com/covid-19-coronavirus-information. Vaccine recipients will be asked to enter their name, date of birth, address and phone number. Anyone unable to register online can call 567-890-7188.  Registration will close when registered recipients are equivalent to current vaccine allotments.  There will be no waiting lists. A Mercer Health representative will call all registered recipients to confirm registration and finalize appointment details.   Individuals who do not meet criteria will not receive a phone call to confirm registration.

 General Hugh Mercer, for whom Mercer County was named. 

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

Photo caption.  Brigadier General Hugh Mercer, for whom Mercer County Ohio was named.  Credit:  from pencil drawing by Col. John Trumbull.

Between 1889 and 1791, John Trumbull traveled the eastern coast of the United States, drawing portraits of military heroes, to ensure the accuracy of the images of his series of Revolutionary War paintings. 

Mercer was born in Aberdeen, Scotland in 1725.  He was graduated in 1744 from the medical school at Aberdeen and became a surgeon’s mate in the army of Prince Charles Edward.  Mercer migrated to America in 1747.  Seeking  Scottish communities, Mercer settled in Pennsylvania.  In 1753, the Frontier settlements were concerned when the French tried to connect Canada with Louisiana by building a series of forts across the Ohio Valley.  In 1754, the French built Fort Duquesne, at the confluence of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers.  In June 1755, British General Braddock with George Washington marched toward Fort Duquesne against the French.  On July 9, 1755, the force was within six miles of the Fort, when the French and Indians opened fire on them, from the woods, whereby General Braddock was mortally wounded.  Braddock’s men retreated to Fort Cumberland.  When Mercer heard of the attack, he took his medical supplies and traveled to Fort Cumberland to tend to the wounded. 

Mercer went on to serve as a Captain in the Pennsylvania Militia, where he met George Washington.  In November 1758, troops led by Colonels Washington and Bouquet reached Fort Duquesne, to see the Fort had been destroyed earlier.  They rebuilt the fort and renamed it Fort Pitt, and placed Hugh Mercer in Command. 

After the Boston Tea Party of December 16, 1773, Hugh Mercer was appointed Colonel of the Third Regiment.  On June 14, 1776, Mercer received his Commission from John Hancock, President of the Congress.  Brigadier General Mercer reported to Washington’s headquarters on July 3, 1776, the day before the signing of the Declaration of Independence.  Brigadier General Hugh Mercer’s final battle occurred at the Battle of Princeton, New Jersey, were he was mortally wounded and died January 12, 1777.

This history will be continued, with Mercer County, Ohio being named honoring General Hugh Mercer in 1820.

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

Second Quarter Parkway High School Honor Roll

SENIORS

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

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

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Breanna Beeks, Makena Boeckman, Alexzandra Cottmann, Grace Etgen, Brendan Etzcorn, Graham Farmer, Justan Felver, Savanna Freeman, Sierra Freeman, Hunter Gibson, Madalyn Heindel, Zoie Huffman, Dylan Hughes, Kayla Kuhn, Claire Langenkamp, Samantha Noll, Claire Rutledge, Makenna Schumm, Tyler Tinkham, Sydney Waters

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Addison Barna, Amanda Dull, Liam Ferroggiaro, Anthony Heck, Brayton Luginbill, Haydn Ridenour, McKayla Sites, Olivia Sutter, Ariana Valle

JUNIORS

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Grant Bollenbacher, Leah Eichler, Cami High, Danielle Huff, Faith Jacobs, Riley Samples, Benjamin Sheppard, Caden Slusher

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Molly Hileman, Raegan Roehm, Jacob Rogers, Gabriel Schaaf, Chantry Simon, Ashtyn Sipe, Blake Strickler, Avamaria Strunk, Gracyn Temple

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Aiden Anderson, Cora Barna, Bailey Berry, Camdyn Clay, Elise Darrigan, Zachary Hawk, Chase Heitkamp, Jaden Hileman, Paige Jackson, Aidan Morton, Cade Schoenleben, Briana Webb, Keaton Zizelman

SOPHOMORES

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Aaron Cron, Colin Fokine, Carter Hellwarth, Madison Jacobs, Jackson Kraner, Roman Leszinske, Corban Rich, Hutch Ridenour, Emily Schaefer, Derek Smith, Brooke Stephenson, Gabrielle Stober, Herminie Williams

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Aaliyah Baxter, Colby Bentz, Brenden Cottman, Gavin Dicke, Skyler Fokine, Trenton Garwood, Macy Johnson, Emiree Knittle, Edin Nichols, Bryant Scudder, Emree Sinning

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Taylor Gruss, Autumn Gilbreath, Caden Heindel, Allison Heitkamp, Allison Hughes, Morgan Hunter, Dakota Mullholand, Deegan Rager, Alison Rowen, Nevaeh Seals, Bryce Stearns, Jason Stienecker, Andrew Wagner, Jocie Waters, Alyxandra Yoder

FRESHMEN

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Alexis Berry, Breanna Berry, Ashley Jackson, Madison Louth, William Molloy, Tyler Rowen, Sarah Sheppard, Woodrow Tinkham, Tori Williams, Jacob Winget

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Ruby Bennett, Morgan Bollenbacher, Logan Green, Harli Grunden, Meg Henkle, Addisyn Hileman, Addysin Leighner, Landen May, Audrey Nichols, Lily Noll, Leona Ravine, Elijah Robertson, Trent Rollins, Abigail Sheets, Julia Sheets, Brittany Sites, Francesca Steinbrunner, Paige Stephenson, Apollo Thomas, Avery White

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Kirsten Detisch, Olivia Dicke, Aaron Hipply, Samara McDonald, Caleb Nusbaum, Casey Popp, Ellie Prichard, Emma Prichard, Fletcher Smith, Abbi Taylor, Kathryn Trisel, Paige Williamson

Bridge Inspection

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart announced recently that the yearly bridge inspections of Mercer County’s 378 bridges on township and county roads have been completed.  Engineer Wiechart and county engineer staff, T. J. Smalley and Aaron Moeller, completed the inspections before the end of 2020.

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

Parkway Middle School Honor Roll for Second Quarter

5th Grade  

Highest Honor Roll

Lydia Eichler

Jaymin Peel

High Honor Roll

Trey Anderson

Jaxson Bollenbacher

Case Bransteter

Maria Buogo

Levon Fox

Kymberly Hess

Colin Ketchum

Branson Lyons

Mason Mathewson

Isaac Menchhofer

Trevor Minnich

Elayna Moeller

Ella Muhlenkamp

Peyton Muhlenkamp

Dylan Nuttle

Piper Pennell

Jonathan Petit

Chayse Rasbach

Albany Roth

Amelia Schmidt

Drayden Schumm

Perry Schwieterman

Carson Stauffer

KJae Stover

Cohen Suzuki

Cade Thomas

William Trisel

Tyson Twigg

Stella Vannette

Emma VanTrees

Obadiah Williams

Abigail Williamson

Addyson Yaney

5th Grade

Honor Roll

Tyler Bash

Uriah Byer

Makynlie Clay

Maleah Craig

Jensen Denney

Carter England

Sterling Garrity

Ellie Harner

Cael Keller

Rowen Knapke

Addilynn Kraner

Justin Leighner

Marley Murphy

Andee Noll

Bryson Painter

Nathan Reigle

Aaron Sheets

Cooper Tangeman

Joel Webber

Eric Welling

Magnus Whitaker

Maddisynne Young

6th Grade Second Quarter

Highest Honor Roll

Lillian Hays

Megan Hughes

Madelyn Stover

Grace Winget

High Honor Roll

Mason Ackley

Charles Bennett

Luke Booher

Rhen Carpenter

Bethany Denney

Oliver Haines

Cami Langenkamp

Kohen Litteral

Wyatt Pancake

Jaymie Quickstad

Magdalene Rich

Gwyneth Ridenour

Luke Sheets

Robert Shirk

Lexie Sites

Deagan Taylor

Jensen Thomas

Samuel Tickle

Jacoby Triplett

6th Grade  

Honor Roll

Kelsie Arnold

Morgan Bentz

Dylan Bollenbacher

Kara Fullenkamp

Kelsie Kellermeyer

Faith Kiser

Austin Knapke

Morgan Louth

Peyton Pennell

Adalynn Rogers

Tyler Rutledge

Damen Slone

Jaden Wenning

Arwen Williams

Tobin Winters

Isabell Young

7th Grade 

Highest Honor Roll

Brittyn Bruns

Ella Putman

Jordan Schaefer

Nathaniel Stolly

Emmery Temple

High Honors

Carlee Barna

Olivia Clifford

Miley Crouch

Lola Dailey

Payton Frese

Logan Fullenkamp

Kaleb Gilliland

Steven Harner

Caden Hays

Trevor Heitkamp

Carson Kirby

Parker Lyons

Rylan Lyons

Natalie Moeller

Madison Mosier

Taylor Muhlenkamp

Josiah Neff

Megan Nichols

Milee Peel

Ava Pond

Ethan Pond

Bryn Schoenleben

Eli Schumm

Gabryelle Sill

Christina Tong

Lucian Winters

John Yoder

7th Grade

Honor Roll

Lennox Boroff

Hayden Castleman

Tyler Chalfant

Dakota Eller

Addison Fisher

Maddox Houts

Parker Johnson

Grace Kiser

Russell McDonald

Maddie Miehls

Taylor Minnich

Ashtlynn Muhlenkamp

Haley Perry

Addison Reigle

Zavier Rissner

Colbie Smith

Analicia Velez

Gabriel Welling

8th Grade 

Highest Honor Roll

Brayden Bruns

Adria Miller

Alexavier Samples

High Honors

Amanda Barrett

Cali Bollenbacher

Shay Boroff

Matthias Byer

Braedn Conn

Gabriel Cross

Nevaeh Etgen

Gaven Garwood

Thomas Hague

Zoey Henning

Lucas Hileman

Evan Kimmel

Creeden Knittle

Scarlett Laux

McKenzie Matthewson

Kailyn Regedanz

Cora Schumm

Wyatt Seals

Jayden Sheets

Helana Sinning

Trevor Stearns

Meah Suzuki

Andrew Taylor

Derrick Wagner

8th Grade

Honor Roll

Kylie Barker

Ryleigh Barker

Anna Bell

Nolan Bollenbacher

Wyatt Carpenter

Emerson Esselstein

Colson Jones

Mackenzie Kellermeyer

Collin Langenkamp

Grace Pontsler

Kaitlyn Rager

Zachery Rogers

Briann Scudder

Lana Stienecker

Kade Suzuki

Ethan Tuttle

Carly Warthman

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH recently made a generous donation to C.A.L.L Ministries to benefit the Parkway and Celina Back Pack Programs as well as the Food Pantry. Homer Burnett, director of the program accepted the check from member Sheila Baltzell-Linn.

Parkway Middle School Honor Roll for First Quarter

5th Grade

Highest Honor Roll

Lydia Eicher

Jaymin Peel

High Honor Roll

Tyson Twigg

Trevor Minnich

KJac Stover

Rowen Knapke

Branson Lyons

Ellie Hamer

Peyton Muhlenkamp

Drayden Schumm

Cohen Suzuki

Stella Vannette

Emma Van Trees

Addyson Yaney

Maria Buogo

Piper Pennell

Colin Ketchum

Mason Mathewson

Andee Noll

Albany Roth

Cade Thomas

Dylan Nuttle

Ella Muhlenkamp

Isaac Menchhofer

Case Bransteter

Obadiah Williams

Carson Stauffer

Perry Schwieterman

Nathan Reiglc

Levon Fox

Chaysc Rasbach

Trey Anderson

Malcah Craig

Jonathan Petit

Abigail Williamson

5th Grade

Honor Roll

Makynlie Clay

Sterling Garrity

Addilynn Kraner

Amelia Schmidt

Cooper Tangeman

Magnus Whitaker

Rylee Lloyd

Lexus Fisher

Justin Leighner

Elayna Moeller

Carter England

Eric Welling

Aaron Sheets

Bryson Painter

Kymberly Hess

William Trisel

Joel Webber

Payton Ravine

Maddisynne Young

Cael Keller

Leilani Lovelace

Marley Murphy

Malachi Fetters

6th Grade

Highest Honors

Gwyneth Ridenour

Charles Bennett

Megan Hughes

Jacoby Triplett

High Honor Roll

Jensen Thomas

Mason Ackley

Morgan Louth

Wyatt Pancake

Magdalene Rich

Samuel Tickle

Tobin Winters

Bethany Denney

Rhen Carpenter

Luke Booher

Lillian Hays

Peyton Pennell

Robcrt Shirk

Lexie Sites

Luke Sheets

Grace Wingct

Zavior Bailey

Oliver Haines

Jaymie Quickstad

6th Grade

Honor Roll

Jaden Wenning

Adalynn Rogers

Aisley Everett

Kelsie Kellermeyer

Cami Langenkamp

Kara Fullenkamp

Taylor Nusbaum

Austin Knapke

Tyler Rutledge

Morgan Bentz

Deagan Taylor

Kylie Younker

Dylan Bollenbacher

Isabell Young

Faith Kiser

Damen Slone

Kelsie Arnold

Kohen Litteral

7th Grade

Highest Honor Roll

Taylor Muhenkamp

Bri ttyn Bruns

Payton Frese

Natalie Moeller

Christina Tong

Nathaniel Stol1y

High Honors

Ethan Pond

Carlee Barna

Olivia Clifford

Steven Harner

Carson Kirby

Parker Lyons

Rylan Lyons

Haley Perry

Jordyn Schaefer

Bryn Schoen leben

Emmery Temple

Analicia Velez

Madison Mosier

Mi ley Crouch

Caden Hays

Gabryelle Sil1

Josiah NetT

Megan Nichols

Milee Peel

Ella Putman

John Yoder

Lola Dailey

Grace Kiser

Eli Schumm

Parkway Middle School

First Quarter Honor Roll

7th Grade

Honor Roll

Gabriel Wel1ing

Kaleb Gilliland

Logan Ful1enkamp

Zavier Rissner

Logan Butler

Dakota El1er

Addison Fisher

Colbie Smith

Russell McDonald

Graydon Bragg

Jaden Green

Hayden Castleman

Taylor Minnich

Ava Pond

Parker Johnson

Ashttlynn Muhlenkamp

Addison Reigle

Lennox Boroff

Tyler Chalfant

Donovan Richardson-Norris

Maddox Houts

Troy Wallace

Kylic Zimmennan

Theunis Boersma

Trevor Heitkamp

8th Grade

Highest Honors

Alexavier Samples

Brayden Bruns

Cali Bollenbaeher

Gaven Garwood

Adria Mil1er

Cora Schumm

High Honors

Derrick Wagner

Wyatt Seals

Shay Boroff

Lucas Hileman

Meah Suzuki

Nevaeh Etgen

Amanda Barrett

Kailyn Regedanz

McKenzie Mathewson

Zoey Henning

Evan Kimmel

Creeden Knittle

Scarlet Laux

Kaitlyn Rager

Braedn Conn

Gabriel Cross

Helana Sinning

Matthias Byer

8th Grade

Honor Roll

Zachary Rogers

Ethan Tuttle

Thomas Hague

Collin Langenkamp

Jayden Sheets

Grace Pontsler

Anna Bel1

Roxlyn Bel1

Duke Brehm

Wyatt Carpenter

Briann Scudder

Trevor Steams

Andrew Taylor

Maicee Renner

Mckenna Dircksen

Brynlea Houser

Alexus Smith

Landon Younker

Kylie Barker

Conrad Lovett

Carly Warthman

News Release: January 17, 2021

 

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH recently made a donation to the House of Hope Project for Men and Women in Celina. According to Sandy Huckemeyer, director of both facilities, these programs have been highly successful in helping recovering addicts get their lives back on track. Picture here, Sandy accepts the donation  from member Sheila Baltzell-Linn. Donations keep House of Hope on track and are always appreciated.

 
January 5-13, 2021
 

Donation to C.O.T.A. for Colten

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH recently made a donation to the Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA) Fund for Colten Mustard, son of Peter and Amber (Adams) Mustard of Celina, and great-grandson of the late Lloyd and the late Florence Gause formerly of Chatt  and grandson of Margie (Gause) Mustard Ellis.

Colten was born with a life-threatening disease called Biliary Atresia (BA). He is 12 years old now and has had several surgeries to help his liver function. But sadly in May 2020,  he was diagnosed with hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) after a week-long hospital stay due to cholangitis. HPS affects the lungs of people with advanced liver disease.

In September, Colten met with his Liver Team at Nationwide Children’s for a 2-day transplant evaluation. His team of doctors decided Colten should officially be listed on the UNOS (United Network for Organ Sharing) Active Liver Transplant List.  Shown above are Colten with his sisters Charleze and Camille and their mom, Amber Mustard, accepting the check from Consistory member Sheila Baltzell-Linn. Dad, Pete, took the picture.

For more information, to make a donation, or to follow Colten’s transplant journey visit www.COTAforColten.com or the CaringforColten Facebook page.

COTA is a 501(c)3 charity so contributions to COTA are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law, and COTA funds are available for a lifetime of transplant-related expenses.  

 
January 1-4, 2021
 

Tom Sanford to Return to St. Paul’s UCC
 

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH will welcome Kingdom Harvest Ministries head school teacher Tom Sanford back to the pulpit for two Sundays on January 10 and 17, 2021. 

Tom always has a meaningful message from the Bible to share, "What do we do with our blessings?" The congregation invites the community to come and hear him.

Social distancing and other rules are being followed to keep everyone safe.
Please call Dave Taylor at 419-733-1155 for any questions regarding the worship services.

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

Jerry Kanney Shares Message of Love and Hope
Jerry Kanney spoke at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, Rockford, OH. The retired Coldwater Schools’ Middle School Principal and math teacher was the guest speaker to the pulpit on Sunday, January 3, 2021. 

Jerry shared his life and how God has carried him through during times of need. When he and his wife, Pat, learned they were going to have triplets in 1984, there was much confusion and joy. He prayed that everything would be ok because he knew that nothing was in their hands. God was in control.

After the triplets had safely arrived, Jerry had a night when he was up alone with all three of the babies. As he rocked them, he came to the realization from God to embrace the journey because you can’t do it without God’s help. Raising children takes love, patience, hope and a sense of humor – one day at a time.

He talked about struggles in their lives, like braces for all three kids, but God never gives you more than you can handle, said his sister-in-law one evening. You have to help Him as he puts people in your path to help you.  

Fast forward to 2009, his first grandson, Carter arrived on the scene, and Jerry was filled with love for this new little bundle. When he was a 2 year old, his parents (Jerry and Pat’s son and daughter-in-law Dan and Natalie Kanney) learned that Carter had a rare genetic disorder called MPS. Mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I) is a rare disease in which the body is missing or does not have enough of an enzyme needed to break down long chains of sugar molecules. Jerry, then retired from Coldwater Schools, began caring for Carter, taking him to his infusions once a week in Cincinnati.  His grandson is now 11. Jerry preps him once a week for his infusions through home health and takes him to school daily. When doctors’ visits are needed, Jerry takes Carter, and together they navigate the world of Children’s Hospital where Carter embraces his own journey with MPS.

Jerry explained that Carter has regressed but has the biggest heart  and is so full of love, that he inspires them daily. They all pray for a miracle and Jerry closed with this Bible verse from

First Thessalonians 5:16–18 contains three quick and to-the-point orders: rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in everything.

 
December 28-31, 2020
Happy New Year!
 

Rockford Christmas Decoration Winners Named
Congratulations to Kidz Treehouse for winning the Best Rockford Business Christmas Decorating contest !

Jessica Shaffer - owner and her excellent staff each received a nice comfy throw compliments of Wabash
Communications.

Thank you~~ Wabash Communications!

Merry Christmas and a very happy New Year from the Rockford Chamber of Commerce !

Businesses Recognized by Rockford Chamber
By Lisa Kuhn
With the global pandemic negatively impacting small businesses everywhere and preventing large gatherings, The Rockford Ohio Chamber of Commerce executive board elected to not host a Chamber Banquet this year. During the banquet we celebrate and honor all new businesses and businesses celebrating a milestone in our community.

The Rockford Chamber would like to recognize and congratulate the following new businesses for Year 2020: The Marketing Junkie, Betseys Bouquets, JNY Design, Rockford Belle Community Church and Barrys Storage Units.

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce is also proud and excited to celebrate the businesses that had milestone
anniversaries this year: Kidz Treehouse, owned by Jessica Shaffer celebrates 5 years in business and Shanes Crossing Historical Society led by Norm VanTilburg is celebrating 25 years!

If you, or your business, are looking for ways to support our thriving business community, please contact Lisa Kuhn at 419-363-3032 ex 1

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

Our Old Bookcase, sent Dec.29, 2020, Mercer Co. Map, 1879 compared with today’s Map. 

Photo caption:  1879 Map, Mercer County, Ohio.  This 1879 Map was from the Geological Survey of Ohio, by J.S. Newberry, and published by the Authority of the Legislature of Ohio, 1879.

"Change is a constant" simply means that the only thing that is constant is "change" itself.  This past year, 2020, “Change,” came about to our World, and our Nation.  This 1879 Survey Map of Mercer County, Ohio, illustrated changes which have come about to the names of communities and post offices within the fourteen Townships.  [Note that the Railroads had not yet arrived in Mercer County, at the time this map was made, in 1878-1879,]

The northern six Townships in Mercer County provided local history.  Blackcreek Township’s Pond Post Office was not identified.  In Dublin Township, Rockford’s name was identified as Shanesville, but Mercer’s name remained the same.  In Union Township, Mendon’s name remained the same.  In Liberty Township, Price Post Office was named, but seven villages and/or post offices Brehm, Burrville, Chattanooga, Durbin, Hinton, Scudder and Skeels X Roads were omitted.  Wabash City was noted as being in Liberty Township, instead of Washington Township.  Hopewell Township did not identify the Tamah Post office, or the intersection at Shively’s Corner.  Three post offices, established at the railroad sites, were not identified.  Center Township had Neptune identified.  However, the Post Office at Boetia, (June 21, 1850-October 13, 1865) was not identified, but was identified by the U.S. Post Office.  I have only seen this post office identified on one map of Ohio.

Across the center of Mercer County, three Townships offered contrasting histories.  Washington Township identified Macedon, but not Erastus or Padua, and placed Wabash City in Liberty Township.  In 1879, Macedon was a larger village than Coldwater, but the world of politics routed the railroad through Coldwater instead of Macedon.  (The cemetery dates at Macedon confirm the size of the village at that time.)  In Butler Township, the Village of Cold Water was identified on this 1879 map, because the name of Coldwater was not changed until 1893.  Jefferson Township had its own unique history in mapping.  Celina was identified on this map, but the name of the “lake” was identified as Reservoir.  Remember the Reservoir was established as a feeder for the Miami and Erie Canal.  On the north side of this lake, the Post Office of Reservoir was identified.  That Post Office had more than one name, on historic maps.  Franklin Township identified Montezuma, as well as Montpelier, which is no longer in existence today.

Southern Mercer County was divided into four townships.  Recovery Township identified the village of Ft. Recovery.  The later Post Offices of Monterey, Ferner, Oakland, St. Joseph, St. Peter, and Victoria were not identified on this map.  Gibson Township did not identify the village of Sharpsburg which hosted Violet Post Office, later known as Zenz City.  Granville Township identified St. Henry, Cranberry Prairie, and Burkettsville, but omitted Wendelin.  Marion Township identified Carthagena, Chickasaw and St. Johns, but omitted Cassella, Maria Stein, St. Rosa, Sebastian.  Steineman Station was not recognized until the arrival of the Railroad.

How many changes have been made in each Township, from the 1879 Map to today’s Map of Mercer County?  How many changes can you identify in the Township or Townships which you know best?  Do Teachers or organizations hold Trivia Contests?  Contrasting the 1879 Map sites with the 2020 Map sites would offer a variety of “History Mysteries” for any local Trivia Contest.  I would be interested in knowing if any local historians are using this suggestion with their own organizations in 2021.

[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.

Our Old Bookcase, sent Dec.22, 2020, for New Year’s Day, old post card

Photo caption:  An old Post Card, featured the wishes, “A Happy New Year, January 1.”

This post card was sent from Mrs. Earl R. Smith, Dayton, Ohio on January 5, 1914, to Mrs. Robert Wade, Celina.  Post cards preceded emails.  The Post Cards were welcome from friends, just as emails are welcome from friends today.  There was a day when everyone dressed in their finest for New Year’s celebrations, to welcome in the New Year, just as the young girl was doing on this post card cover.

Therefore, the Members of the Mercer County Historical Society are sending you greetings for the New Year of 2021, as we say, “Farewell,” to the year 2020.  In December 2020, I asked you to believe in the Magic of Christmas and share your ideas of how to make plans for 2021.  We have hopes for a better year, after the “Year of the Virus in 2020.”

Thank you for all of the Christmas Gifts whereby you sent your ideas for programs or projects in this New Year.  Your overwhelming support of potential programs for the Mercer County Historical Society in 2021 has been well received.  I will try to group some of these suggestions together, so that you will be able to share with the Historical Society which programs you might like, or if you have additional ideas.

Several suggestions included a sidewalk & front porch sale of pre-owned history books from the public.  Some suggestions included history books from local communities, during their Sesquicentennial Celebrations.  Others suggested history booklets from school class reunions, churches, and service organizations.  Many suggested book sales of pre-owned History books published by the Mercer County Historical Society in the past five decades.  Military history books were suggested as a topic for a book sale, as well as United States or World History books. 

An interesting topic was made that the Historical Society host a Wednesday evening “Sing-Along,” with musicians standing on the Museum Porch in the summer time. Similar suggestions were that Local Artists and/or Photographers exhibit their work on the Museum lawn, in the summer time.  Are you interested?

Another set of ideas were proposed that the Historical Society create maps of walking tours of towns, highlighting historical sites, with short histories to accompany the maps.  Similar suggestions included summer time walking tours, identifying architect features of buildings.  A Driving Tour was also suggested, that the Historical Society draw maps of townships, featuring unique barns and/or certain architectural styles of the big old barns in Mercer County. 

The New Idea Historic Preservation Committee hosted exhibits of New Idea Farm Equipment, and antique tractors at the Coldwater Community Picnic.  The Historical Society’s popular exhibits of Prehistoric Indian Artifacts, Military Exhibits, Old Post Cards and Signatures of famous citizens will be held if the “Virus” does not prevent these events.  I also have a list of history books, which Members identified as books which I should write.  I do have two history books in progress.

The Magic of Christmas is still alive and well for our Society Members.  I invite you to become a Member of the Mercer County Historical Society and join in the fun.  The Historical Society Members easily become friends because everyone is interested in preserving local history.  You are most welcome to invite others to become Members.  Dues are your choice, you know you are welcome.  I do look forward to hearing from you.  Please believe in the Magic of Christmas and help the Historical Society to preserve your Heritage.  If you wish to become a Member of the Mercer County Historical Society, please send your donation to:  Mercer County Historical Society, Inc., P.O. Box 512, Celina, OH 45822.  Thank you for helping to preserve your heritage.  Happy New Year.

[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]

The Rockford Carnegie Library (162 S. Main St., Rockford OH) will hold its regular meeting on Tuesday, January 12, at 4 p.m. in the library basement.  The meeting is open to the public.

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

Zachary Norris is the Lima Post Trooper of the Year

Lima - Ohio State Highway Patrol Trooper Zachary M.T. Norris has been selected 2020 Trooper of the Year at the Lima Post.

The selection of Trooper Norris, 26, is in recognition of outstanding service during 2020 at the Lima Post. Fellow officers stationed at Lima Post chose Trooper Norris based on leadership abilities, professional ethics, courteous treatment of others, enthusiastic work attitude, and cooperation with supervisors, peers, and the public.

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

In 2016, Trooper Norris graduated as a trooper with the 160th class from the Highway Patrol Academy and was assigned to the Lima Post.  He is a 2012 graduate of Shawnee High School.  Other Highway Patrol awards received in the past include the Criminal Patrol award in 2018 and 2019.

Trooper Norris resides in Lima.

Ohio State Highway Patrol Honors Lawson and Klausing

VAN WERT – Ohio State Highway Patrol Trooper Jacob W. Lawson has been selected the 2020 Trooper of the Year at the Van Wert post.

The selection of Trooper Lawson, 28, is in recognition of outstanding service during 2020.  Fellow officers stationed at the Van Wert post, chose Trooper Lawson based on his leadership abilities, professional ethics, courteous treatment of others, enthusiastic work attitude, and cooperation with supervisors, peers, and the public.

Trooper Lawson joined the Highway Patrol in 2018 as a member of the 164th class. Originally from Springfield, Ohio, Trooper Lawson is a graduate of Kenton Ridge High School and Mount Vernon Nazarene University. 

Trooper Lawson and his family reside in Paulding County.

Radio Dispatcher Katie I. Klausing has been selected the 2020 Dispatcher of the Year at the Van Wert dispatch center.  Klausing joined the Highway Patrol in 2018 and has been assigned to the Van Wert dispatch center throughout her career.  She is a graduate of Lincolnview High School and Vantage Career Center.  

Klausing, 37, was honored in recognition of her outstanding service over the past year.  Supervision and dispatchers chose Klausing based on her technical job knowledge and ability, enthusiastic work attitude, teamwork, and prompt and courteous response to the public’s request for information and assistance.

Klausing and her family reside in Van Wert County. 

Both Lawson and Klausing are in contention for district and state honors as Trooper of the Year and Dispatcher of the Year.  Those honors will be announced at a later date.

April 2021 Honor Flight Postponed

The national Honor Flight Network has ordered a suspension of all Honor Flights scheduled through April 30, 2021.  As a member of the Honor Flight Network, Honor Flight Northeast Indiana will comply with their directive.  The scheduled April 28, 2021 Honor Flight from Fort Wayne has been postponed.  The COVID-19 virus has had a significant impact on individuals and as a nation.  The safety of veterans, guardians, and Honor Flight staff is the primary concern.

Dennis Covert, President of Honor Flight Northeast Indiana, stated; “We are confronted with a high degree of uncertainty concerning travel in 2021. The Board of Directors of Honor Flight Northeast Indiana is reviewing the situation to determine possible courses of action for re-scheduling the April 28, 2021 Honor Flight from Fort Wayne.”

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

 
December 24-27, 2020
Merry Christmas!
 

Willshire Community to feature Luminaries around the Village on Christmas Eve

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ Offering Holy Communion
St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Steve Howell to the pulpit on Sunday, December 27, 2020 for the last in his 4 week series for Christmas entitled “Who is this Baby Jesus?”. 

Steve’s fourth lesson will be based on the book of the Matthew 2: 1-18 Prince of Peace - for those of you who like to follow the scriptures. Holy Communion will be served.

Please note the usual Christmas Eve service is cancelled.

Social distancing and other rules are being followed to keep everyone safe.
Please call Dave Taylor at 419-733-1155 for any questions regarding the worship services.

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

 
December 19-23, 2020
 

First UM Church announces on-line Christmas Eve Services

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Christmas Eve services at First United Methodist Church in Van Wert will be held on-line only.  There will be two services available for viewing on Christmas Eve night.  A family Christmas Eve service will be at 5:00 pm which features families reading the Christmas story along with family members providing Christmas music on piano, guitar and singing, as well as many other surprises!  This is a special service being produced professionally in advance and then aired at 5:00 pm. 

The traditional candle-light service will be produced in advance and aired at 10:00 pm.  It is entitled, “The Songs of Bethlehem” and is a compilation of Lessons & Carols created by K. Lee Scott.  Pastor Chris Farmer and Demond Johnson will be reading scripture surrounding the Christmas story, interspersed with music of all kinds and styles.  A vocal octet of skilled singers, organist, keyboardist (harp), flautist, and brass ensemble will provide the music which includes beautiful original compositions as well as traditional Christmas Carols.  The service has been designed and coordinated by Paul Hoverman, Chancel Choir Director and Director of First Impressions and Worship Arts.

First United Methodist Church regrets that it cannot hold the services in person as has been a tradition on Christmas Eve for many years but is excited to share these wonderful services to everyone via digital format.  It will be easy for you to find the services on-line.  Just log onto vanwertfirst.net and click on the movie camera found on the home page.  Then click on the service you wish to watch.  They will be available on-line beginning at 5:00 pm and 10:00 pm.

We look forward to sharing the Good News of our Savior’s Birth with you this Christmas Eve, unmasked in the comfort of your own home.  First United Methodist Church looks forward to sharing with you on-line this Christmas Eve as we celebrate Christmas with you in a new way in 2020!

Parkway Winter Homecoming Planned

Parkway High School will be playing their annual homecoming basketball game on Friday, January 8, 2021. The Panthers will be hosting the Minster Wildcats. The student government would like to announce this year’s homecoming court. The underclassmen attendants are freshman, Ruby Bennett, sophomore, Aaliyah Baxter, and junior, Faith Jacobs. The senior queen candidates are Kelsey Nichols, Madalyn Heindel, and Tayah Tewksbury. The JV game will start at 6 pm with the homecoming ceremony taking place between the JV and Varsity games. We would like to thank the fans who are able to attend the game and those cheering from home. Let’s go, Panthers!

Attached photo, left to right: Ruby Bennett, Aaliyah Baxter, Faith Jacobs, Kelsey Nichols, Madalyn Heindel, and Tayah Tewksbury

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – December 21, 2020

By Kristy Fryman 

CELINA- As of December 21, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 3,190 confirmed cases, 566 probable cases, 2,933 recovered cases, 28 pending cases, 13 hospitalizations, 59 deaths, and 17 probable deaths of COVID-19. There have been 10 confirmed cases who have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19. Currently, there are 181 active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County.

The 59th Mercer County resident to die from COVID-19 was a 76-year-old male from St. Henry. The MCHD staff would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends during this difficult time.

The MCHD is anticipating our first round of COVID-19 vaccine to be delivered to this week. Due to the limited supply of vaccine, the first phase of vaccine administration will focus on critical groups and not available to the general public. The MCHD and Mercer Health will be coordinating efforts to help ensure that local independent doctor’s offices and other health care facilities do not get missed.  All of the Long-Term Care Facilities will be vaccinated by CVS or Walgreens under the partnership for the Long-Term Care Program. When the priority group broadens out to all essential workers (phase 1b) we will be promoting our vaccination clinics via press releases and social media. Your continued patience is appreciated as we work through the vaccination process while continuing our daily COVID-19 pandemic response activities.

The MCHD staff will not be managing COVID-19 cases over the Christmas holiday weekend and the office will close at 11:30 AM on Thursday, December 24 and will reopen on Monday, December 28. As a result, MCHD does not anticipate issuing press releases or daily social media updates during this time.  Your patience is appreciated as MCHD staff relax and enjoy the holiday weekend with their families.

 
December 18, 2020
 

Compliance Check of Stores in Celina
On Thursday, December 10, 2020, the Celina Police Department conducted compliance checks on local businesses selling nicotine vaping products.  These were done as a result of ongoing complaints from citizens of local businesses selling the products to underage persons.  Ohio law does not allow the sale of nicotine products including tobacco and other products commonly referred to as Vapes.

This investigation involved the Celina P.D. using an adult employee under 21 years old.  The employee went into various businesses around the city and attempted a straight forward purchase of vaping products.  We are happy to report that both Eastown Party Mart, which is the Shell on Grand Lake Rd and Celina Party Mart, which is the Shell on S. Main St., both properly declined to sell to the underage informant.

We were disappointed that seven other businesses checked did sell the products illegally.  They include Marathon Gas on N. Main St, Celina Sunoco on E Market St., Docksiders Marathon on S. Main St., Dockside Marathon on E. Market St., Lester’s Tobacco Shack on E. Market St., Grand Lake Vapor on S Main St and Epic Vapes on Havemann Rd.

Charges have been filed on all seven clerks who sold the products.  They were served summons in lieu of arrest for the violations which are misdemeanors of the fourth degree.  A repeat violation is a misdemeanor of the third degree and would likely result in arrest.

These tobacco laws are in place for the health and welfare of our youth and are taken seriously by the Celina Police Department.  We will continue do compliance checks.  They will be done with more frequency and repeat violators will likely face arrest and incarceration.

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ Offering Holy Communion
St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Steve Howell to the pulpit on Sunday, December 27, 2020 for the last in his 4 week series for Christmas entitled “Who is this Baby Jesus?”. 

Steve’s fourth lesson will be based on the book of the Matthew 2: 1-18 Prince of Peace - for those of you who like to follow the scriptures. Holy Communion will be served.

Please note the usual Christmas Eve service is cancelled.

Social distancing and other rules are being followed to keep everyone safe.
Please call Dave Taylor at 419-733-1155 for any questions regarding the worship services.

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

 
December 17, 2020
 

On Thursday, December 17, 2020, Parkway Schools went on a 2 hour delay
for snow-covered, slick roads in the area.

Sheriff Grey cautions motorists as snow fell again overnight.

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

 
December 14-16, 2020
 

Parkway Schools are now CLOSED for Wednesday, December 16, 2020.

On Wednesday, December 16, 2020, Parkway Schools went on a 2 hour delay
for snow-covered, slick roads in the area.

Sheriff Grey cautions motorists.

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

This measurable snowstorm brought about 3 inches of snow.

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

Retired Pastor Steve Howell returning to the pulpit at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Steve Howell to the pulpit on Sunday, December 20, 2020 for the third in his 4 week series for Christmas entitled “Who is this Baby Jesus?”.

Steve’s third lesson will be based on the book of the Prophet Isaiah 9:2-7  Mighty God, Everlasting Father - for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

The members at St. Paul are excited to have Pastor Steve back so plan now to join us. Everyone is welcome.

Social distancing and other rules are being followed to keep everyone safe.
Please call Dave Taylor at 419-733-1155 for any questions regarding the worship services.

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

Pictured above is Pastor Howell with a former PHS student, Donna Warthman.

 
December 3-13, 2020
 

Local doctor of Dentistry, John K. Granger Retires

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce along with the Rockford Community extend a heartfelt THANK YOU to Dr. John K. Granger D.M.D  for 45 years of taking care of dental needs - morning, noon and night.  

Congratulations, Dr. Granger, on your successful career!  

Enjoy your retirement!
Caption: Anna Reier, RDH, Pam Krugh - Office Manager, Susie Miller - Chairside Assistant and Dr. John Granger.  

Welcome to Rockford
Grand Lake Family Dentistry has taken over Dr. Granger's Rockford
practice.   Same location - same phone number – new dentist.
The Rockford Chamber of Commerce welcomes - Dr. Jennifer Harr.  She is accepting new and existing patients.  

Meetings Postponed
The Rockford Bicentennial Committee will be postponing meetings because of Covid concerns until February 2021.  
Please watch Shanes Crossing Historical Society Facebook page and/or press releases for information when meetings will
resume.        

Buy Dog Tags in Rockford
by Lisa Kuhn, Fiscal Officer

Dog Tags available at the Rockford Village office until January 31st.  
$16  --- If you wish to mail your information to the office ---
check to the Mercer County Treasurer with following information -

written on a separate piece of paper -

Name of owner, address and phone number
Age of Dog
Male or Female
Color
Long or short hair
Breed if known
We will in return mail receipt and dog tag.


Village of Rockford
Dog Tag
PO Box 282
Rockford, OH  458821


 

                                                                           Rockford Family and Friends !

We have some Super Santa news --- we have just learned that Santa is on his way to finalize Christmas plans and has
decided to stop in Rockford !!   Next  Friday near Shanes Hall area at Shanes Park you will find Santa handing out candy
canes and available for some quick photos !    
Friday  - December 11th from 6 – 8 pm  !!        We are thankful for this surprise visit !!  

Merry Christmas :)

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.

Mailbox Repair

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

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

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

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

Retired Pastor Steve Howell returning to the pulpit at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ
St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Steve Howell to the pulpit on Sunday, December 13, 2020 for the second in his 4 week series for Christmas entitled “Who is this Baby Jesus?”.

Steve’s second lesson will be based on the book of the Prophet Isaiah 9:2-7  Wonderful Counselor - for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

The members at St. Paul are excited to have Pastor Steve back so plan now to join us. Everyone is welcome.

Social distancing and other rules are being followed to keep everyone safe.
Please call Dave Taylor at 419-733-1155 for any questions regarding the worship services.

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

Left Caption: Elaine Deitsch read the Advent Scripture on December 6 while Jill Thomas lit the 2^nd candle.

 
December 1-2, 2020
 

On Wednesday, December 2, 2020, Parkway Schools went on a 3 hour delay
for more icy roads.

Sheriff Grey cautions motorists.

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

On Tuesday, December 1, 2020, Parkway Schools went on a 2 hour delay
for icy roads in the area.

Sheriff Grey cautions motorists.

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

First measurable snowstorm to the area brought about 2 inches of wet snow,
and then froze on the roads overnight.

Suspects in Theft arrested

Mercer County Sheriff, Jeff Grey reports the arrest of two (2) individuals for Breaking and Entering (Felony 5) and Grand Theft (Felony 4).   Grey advised that his office received an alarm on 11-25-2020 at 11:57 PM from 5228 St Rte. 118 Coldwater, Ohio (Lefeld Implement).  Grey advised that deputies from his office responded to the alarm and when they arrived, realized that a John Deere Gator (ATV) was missing.   The deputy advised other deputies to be on the lookout for this gator.   Grey advised that Deputy Kyle Fink spotted a white truck, pulling a flatbed trailer with a new John Deere Gator on the trailer on St Rte. 219 near St Rte. 49.   Grey advised that deputies had received a “Bulletin” earlier in the day from Decatur, Indiana Police Department advising local agencies to be on the lookout for a white truck, that stole a trailer in their city.   With this information, a Deputy Fink stopped the truck and confirmed that the gator was stolen from Lefeld Implement and confirmed the trailer was the stolen trailer from Decatur,  Indiana. 

The two suspects were arrested and taken to the Mercer County Jail, where they are currently being held on a $100,000.00, bond (10%) that was set by Celina Municipal Court Judge, Kathryn Speelman.

Arrested was 28 year old Lee M Peterson of 4310 S Burlington Drive Muncie, Indiana as well as 37 year old Stanley Justice – Keeton of 1404 S May Ave Muncie Indiana.  Grey advised that his deputies / detectives have also received information that there are many other thefts that have occurred in other jurisdictions in Ohio and Indiana, Grey stated that his deputies / detectives are sharing their information with the other jurisdictions in hopes of recovering other stolen property. 

Mercer County Prosecutor, Matt Fox assisted with reviewing the case and prepared charges early this morning.  

Grey advised that with local agencies sharing information and the deputies being vigilant, they were able to apprehend these individuals.  The investigation is continuing.

 
November 26-30, 2020 
 

Donation to Carey, Bill and Benny Scholarship
St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH recently made a donation to the Carey, Bill and Benny Scholarship Fund for Parkway Seniors. The donation was in appreciation for the services of a recent speaker at St. Paul’s, Tom Risch, of the Mercer County Veteran’s Association. He provided a meaningful message at the church’s Veteran’s Day Appreciation Program. Shown above is Steve Sapp, brother of the late Benny Sapp, one of those memorialized in the scholarship, accepting the check from Consistory member Becky Jo Shope.

Social distancing and other rules are being followed to keep everyone safe as St. Paul’s worships through the Advent Season.

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

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

Rockford Carnegie Library Board of Trustees to Meet
The Rockford Carnegie Library Board of Trustees will meet for its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, December 8, at 4:00 p.m. in the library basement  This will be the final meeting for the year for the library.  The board meets monthly on the second Tuesday of each month at 4:00 p.m. in the library basement, unless a cancellation is announced.

Retired Pastor Steve Howell returning to the pulpit at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ
St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomes retired Pastor Steve Howell to the pulpit on Sunday, December 6, 2020 to begin a series for Advent.

On this Sunday, December 6, 2020, Steve’s lesson will be based on the book of the Prophet Isaiah and the plan for Salvation for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

The members at St. Paul are excited to have Pastor Steve back so plan now to join us. Everyone is welcome.

Social distancing and other rules are being followed to keep everyone safe.
Please call Dave Taylor at 419-733-1155 for any questions regarding the worship services.

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

Caption: Pictured left on November 29, 2020 are Connie Sapp (reader) and Becky Jo Shope providing the lighting of the first Advent candle.

Van Wert High School Musical Available Soon
The Van Wert High School Theatre Department would like to announce that our production, Disney’s Tarzan®, The Stage Musical, will be available for streaming December 9-13. Our production was filmed at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center. This musical is based on the story, Tarzan of the Apes, by Edgar Rice Burroughs, Disney’s 1999 animated film, and the book by David Henry Hwang. With music and lyrics by Phil Collins, audience members will also enjoy all the favored melodies from songs such as “You’ll Be In My Heart,” “Son of Man,” and “Two Worlds.” Set deep in the jungle, Tarzan® , The Stage Musical focuses on stories of family, love, acceptance, and determination. Enjoy our production from the comfort of your own home. Streaming times vary to accommodate all time zones. Ticketing and streaming services provided by ShowTix4U. Three ticket options are available including; Single Viewer, Scarlet Package, and Gray Package. Tickets can be purchased now on our website (VWHSTheatre.weebly.com). As we look to continue our financial security for future productions, we are asking for each viewer to purchase a code, and in situations for additional family members, the package deal. VWHS Theatre would like to thank 2020 Musical Production Sponsors Eastside Auto Repair and Sales, Tisha Fast: State Farm Insurance Agency, Vancrest of Van Wert, Unverferth Dentistry, Eaton Corporation, and Van Wert Manor for their continued support! Disney’s Tarzan, the Stage Musical is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com.

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

 The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Pastor Steve Howell to the pulpit on Sunday, November 29, 2020 delivering the third part of the 3 part series - Conversations with Jesus – Jesus talks with a Thirsty Person based on John 4:1-26. His inspiring message included Biblical verses from the Old and New Testament from Isaiah and Revelations.  Steve went on to read the Gospel Lesson from John 4:1-26 covering Jesus in his ministry – when he knew he had to hurry back to Nazareth, and he and the disciples traveled through Samaria. This was a shortcut that went through a country where Jews and Samarians did NOT get along. Jesus was weary in this recounting. He understands us and how we get weary, too, according to Pastor Steve. He sat by the ancient well dug by Jacob. It was a hot day and only one woman came to the well to draw water. Jesus initiates the conversation of living water and asks her to give him a drink. She reacts with surprise. He’s breaking the rules of the day by talking to her, a Samarian and a woman. Jewish men would not do this. He is breaking cultural barriers. As Steve explained, Jesus sees her as God’s creation; he offers her the living water of salvation but she puts him down asking if he is better than Jacob. He doesn’t take her comments personally. He explains that the living water he offers will quench her thirst forever.  She thinks this would be good. He sees her as a thirsty person, drinking swamp water, trying to find salvation. She’s a woman who has had 5 husbands and now lives with another man. Jesus knows she still doesn’t understand. He explains to her to go get her husband, and he will offer them the choice to: drink of the living water; never be thirsty again; have their sins washed away; and eternal life where they will pass from earth directly to the next life when they die. She suddenly remembers her Bible teachings about the Messiah and says, “When Christ comes, he will tell us everything.” She understands when Jesus replies, “I, who speak to you, am He.” He never does get his drink of water, according to Steve.

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

Pastor Steve will be back in the pulpit on Sunday, December 6, 2020 delivering the first in a 4 part series from Isaiah for the Advent Season - for those of you who like to follow the scripture lesson. Everyone is welcome at St. Paul’s UCC, 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH. COVID rules are being followed.

Our Old Bookcase, sent Nov. 26, 2020; Thank your historians this year.

= = = = =

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

Photo caption:  “Anthony Shane’s place in Rockford’s history is preserved by Historian Harrison Frech.

“Thank your local historians this season.  They deserve the gift of appreciation for Christmas!
”If historians do not preserve your history, the future will not know you existed!

I want to thank one of Mercer County’s finest academic historians, Harrison Frech, with his book, “Anthony Shane, Metis Interpreter:  A bridge between Two Cultures , Scout, Interpreter, Town Founder, Witness to History,”  Rockford, OH, 2020.  He has done more to preserve the history of this time period in this area of northwestern Ohio, than anyone.

These suggestions may help you recognize your local historian.

Thank the local historical societies in Mercer County.  Thank the 1957 Mercer County Commissioners for caring enough to establish a County Historical Society and for making the decision to include funding in their 1958 Budget to implement the Mercer County Historical Society, and County Historical Museum.  Thank the local elected officials and their staffs for preserving the government records at County, Township, and Village Offices, for everyone’s protection.  When Celina’s School at Montezuma was closed, their “less important records,” were donated to the Mercer County Historical Society, Inc, and I thank them for their interest in preserving their School’s history.

Thank the Township Trustees who made the decision to fund the County and local historical societies.  Thank the City of Celina and the Village Governments for supporting the County Historical Society and the local historical societies.

Thank the local community historians, who went the second mile, without payment for their time or expenses, and wrote the local community history books.  Thank the local historians who also volunteered and wrote the histories of the local service organizations.  Thank the local historians who also volunteered and wrote the histories of the churches and religious organizations.  Remember to thank the Family Historians for the family histories!  Without them, your family history will be lost.  Thank the Libraries in Mercer County Communities and the Libraries within the Schools, for preserving the local history books.  Thank the History Teachers who preserve the history of our free Nation, the U.S.A.

Thank the public citizen donors, the Combined Drive volunteers, the Celina Combined Services Appeal volunteers and donors.  Thank the quiet citizens who designate donations to the Historical Societies through their Estate Planning.  They plan for a future in preserving our history.

Last, I thank each person who thanks me for the work of the Mercer County Historical Society Members for their support of writing and publishing over thirty local history books, these past five decades, with a Mission To Preserve Mercer County’s History and To Educate the Public about that history. 

The very few people who let me know that they have no use for the Historical Society, actually included their family history in the “1978 Mercer County Ohio History Book,” published by the Mercer County Historical Society, Inc.   They actually wanted the Mercer County Historical Society to preserve their very own family history, with their name included in our History Books. 

[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]

Mercer County Sheriff’s Office lobby closed to the public
Beginning Monday, November 30, 2020 the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office lobby will be closed to the public due to the recent increase in Covid-19 cases in Mercer County.

Citizens wanting to apply for a CCW or to re-new a CCW can still do so by scheduling an appointment. Fingerprinting (BCI and FBI Background Checks through National Webcheck) can also be obtained by appointment only. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 419-586-5770 during the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M., Monday through Friday, excluding Holidays.

Appointments will be scheduled in twenty (20) minute increments to allow enough time to complete the application process. Please make sure that you have all the appropriate documents and form of payment ready prior to coming in for your appointment. Please visit our website, www.mercercountysheriffohio.gov  for more information and to download the application.

Public records requests can be made via email, USPS, or by calling 419-586-5770. Please do not come to the office for a public record request.

Anyone that comes into the office must wear a mask.

The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. The health of our employees and the citizens of Mercer County are important to us.

 

Jeff Grey

Mercer County Sheriff's Office

Bridge to Close
The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Township Line Road between Purdy Road and Wilson Road in Dublin Township for a bridge replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on November 30, 2020 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 4-5 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

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

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – November 24, 2020

By Kristy Fryman 

CELINA- As of November 24, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 2,583 confirmed cases, 428 probable cases, 2,219 recovered cases, 90 pending cases, 21 hospitalizations, 44 deaths, and 2 probable deaths of COVID-19. There have been 8 confirmed cases who have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19. Currently, there are 331 active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County.

In Mercer County, the 40th Mercer County resident to die COVID-19 was a 94-year old female from Coldwater. The 41st resident to die from COVID-19 was an 81-year old male from Coldwater. The 42nd resident to die from COVID-19 was a 95-year old male from Coldwater. The 43rd resident to die from COVID-19 was a 76-year old male from Celina. The 44th resident to die from COVID-19 was a 61-year old female from Coldwater. The MCHD staff would like to express our deepest sympathies to the friends and families of those who have been lost.

The 21 Mercer County residents who are currently hospitalized with COVID-19 range in age from 51 to 92 years, with an average age of 67 years old.  The 44 Mercer County residents who have died of COVID-19 range from 56 to 100 years in age, with an average age of 83 years old. 

As we head into the Thanksgiving holiday, the MCHD wants to remind everyone to not let your guard down. If you choose to gather, we urge you to keep your gatherings as small as possible. We encourage you to evaluate the potential risks against the benefits. The virus can spread during shared meals and traditional holiday activities involving multiple generations. The consequences of large gatherings could further burden our local hospitals, which are already feeling the impacts of this virus.

The MCHD staff will not be managing COVID-19 cases over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend and the office will be closed on Thursday, November 26th, and Friday, November 27th.  As a result, MCHD does not anticipate issuing press releases or daily social media updates during this time.  Your patience is appreciated as MCHD staff relax and enjoy the holiday weekend with their families.

Congratulations to Rockford RoadDog - selected as the 2020 Rockford Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year
by Lisa Kuhn, chamber Secretary
You have done a great job in the ownership transition - which isn’t easy.
Rockford RoadDog employs local people.  
Your friendly staff are the face of Rockford to many traveling through our village.   We appreciate their kindness, smiles and treating visitors like friends and family.

You have and continue to support the Rockford Chamber and other  local businesses and organizations such as our local radio station.

Rockford RoadDog supports Rockford causes and has helped raise funds for the Rockford Bicentennial with a successful gas sale campaign.

You continue to keep your business clean, attractive and have made investments in your business such as painting the building and repaving the parking areas.

For all of these reasons we appreciate the Rockford RoadDog and find them to be  very deserving of this award.


Duncan Oil Company is a family owned and operated company providing quality petroleum products to customers for.over 60 years. Duncan Oil was purchased by Roger McDaniel in 1978 and is now operated by his son Ryan McDaniel,
alongside his wife Kathryn McDaniel, who maintains the C-store division including Rockford RoadDog. In that time.Duncan has grown from a small company in Beavercreek, Ohio to a growing fuel supplier with customers spanning.across thirteen states.
They specialize in supplying independent supermarket fuel centers, as well as assisting in the forecasting, designing,.building, managing, and supporting of the fueling center. They are also a proud distributor for the Valero, Marathon, Clark,
and VP Brand.

Caption:  Roger, Kathryn, Ryan McDaniel with Krista Adams the Rockford RoadDog Manager

Parkway December 2020 Printable Combined Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

 
November 24-25, 2020 
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 16 years!
 

Rockford Citizen of the Year Named for 2020
By Lisa Kuhn

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce along with the Rockford Community would like to extend a warm "Congratulations" to Twyla Hayes - The 2020 Citizen of the Year.

She is truly deserving !  Twyla's energy, her vision and her love of community have been an inspiration to all.   The Bicentennial logo, The New Year's Eve celebration, the Garden Walk and the historic mural were a result of her remarkable ability to foresee things most of us can't imagine and to implement things that most of us deem impossible!   Thank you, Twyla, for all you
have done.  The Citizen of the Year award could not have gone to a more deserving individual. Best wish to you and your family !  

The Grinch is Coming!

Stop by the Rockford Carnegie Library on Small Business Saturday, November 28 from 10-11 for a photo with Mr. Grinch. Please bring your own camera. A Take-Home Craft will be available from 10-2. Remember, “A book is a gift you can open again and again.” - Garrison Keillor. Happy Holidays!

Rockford Area Development Corporation Cancels Meetings and Candy Cane Events

The RADC November meeting is cancelled due to the Covid numbers rising. There will be no December meeting due to the holidays. We will not be passing out candy canes this year either. Tammy Cheek will be distributing new membership forms in December. Please stay safe and healthy going into the Holiday season and into the new year.

Colten Mustard, age 12, is waiting for a Liver Transplant
Colten of Celina, OH is awaiting his liver transplant! A fundraiser has been started to help with expenses. Every day we will give away an item on the "COTA for Colten December Calendar Raffle" Facebook Event Page. Tickets are $1/piece or $5/for 6 tickets you can order them online at www.cotaforcolten.com. Click under "Events" to place your ticket order and make an online donation by clicking on the thermometer. See the many donated prizes on FaceBook. The Campaign manager is Alyssa Rutter at alyssa_0912@yahoo.com. 

Colten Mustard’s Family would like to thank the local Mercer County businesses and vendors who donated items!

 
November 17-23, 2020 
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 16 years!
 

Calvary Evangelical Church Goes to On-line

 
November 12-16, 2020 
 

Scholarship Chicken Dinner Drive Thru Big Success
The Rockford Lions Club held their first Scholarship Chicken Dinner on Saturday, November 7, 2020.  The Drive Thru event at the Rockford Carry Out, 156 S. Main Street served more than 300 chicken dinners.  All proceeds and monetary donations from the Chicken Dinner project will help fund Lions Club scholarships awarded to graduating seniors in the Parkway High School Class of 2021.  Special thanks to the Burtch Seed Company of Rockford, Kroger of Decatur, IN, and to the Rockford Carry Out.

Rockford Lions Club projects help fulfill local community needs & requests.  In addition to local service, International Lions Club programs focus on Vision, as well as Diabetes, the Environment, Hunger, and Childhood Cancer.  Multiple Rockford Lions projects in 2020 were cancelled in response to the COVID 19 pandemic.  These projects include the Lions Quarter Auction in March, the Rockford Car Show and Cruise-In in June, and the Lions Club Fish Fry in November. 

During the past two years the Rockford Lions Club has provided eyeglasses for children and adults in need and made donations to Pilot Dogs, as well as to multiple Lions Club Foundations including the Ohio Lions Eye Research foundation, Ohio Lions District 13 Eye Bank, and Ohio Lions Sight & Hearing.  Local support includes the Parkway Baseball parents, the mission of the St. Anthony Dinner Theater, Parkway 8th grade Washington DC Trip, Scholarships for Parkway graduating seniors, the Cancer Association of Mercer County, and the Rockford American Legion for their Veterans Memorial project. 

Anyone who would like to donate to the Rockford Lions Club in support of any of these programs and projects may send checks to:  Rockford Lions Club, Loren Shindeldecker, treasurer, 11814 Frysinger Road, Rockford, OH  45882. The Rockford Lions Club is a 501c3 nonprofit organization.  Donations are tax deductible.

The Lions motto is "We Serve."  As Lions we also care for the health and well-being of our members and our community.  For the immediate future, the Rockford Lions Club will hold a monthly virtual (online) meeting on the second Monday of each month.  For more information, check out the Rockford Lions Club, Rockford, OH social media page online.

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

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Pastor Steve Howell to the pulpit on Sunday, November 15, 2020 delivering the second part of the 3 part series - Conversations with Jesus – Jesus talks with a Good Person based on John 3:1-18. His inspiring message included Biblical verses from the Old and New Testament from Psalms (God creating a clean heart and renewing the spirit of the sinner) and Ephesians (By Grace we have been saved through Faith). Steve went on to read the Gospel Lesson from John 3:1-18 covering Jesus early in his ministry – when he was approached (under the cover of darkness) by the most unlikely of seekers, Nicodemus, a Pharisee. These two were in complete contrast! Nicodemus was wealthy and from Jerusalem while Jesus was homeless and from Nazareth in Galilee. Nicodemus was a Pharisee, a ruler of the people – sitting on the Sanhedrin Jewish Court (like Supreme Court), was well educated, a social elite, a community standout, carried political clot, and was considered the outstanding Rabbi of the day (like Billy Graham). Compared to him, Jesus was a nobody with no clout. Yet here was Nicodemus, honestly searching for the truth. He was not sure that Pharisees and the Sanhedrin were going to heaven. He spoke to Jesus with respect and called him Rabbi. He heard of his miracles. Pastor Howell said that Jesus answered a question Nicodemus had not asked of him. “Truly, Truly (listen to me Nicodemus) I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus did not want to hear this answer and asked how can one be born again from the womb? Jesus again told him that unless one is born of water and the spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. Nicodemus still argued. Jesus looked at his heart. Start all over again and be like a child is Jesus’ response. Jesus asks him, “Are you the teacher of Israel and yet you do not understand these things?” Nicodemus was in denial, but later on in John 19, Nicodemus comes to God on his own with Joseph of Aramathia. Steve said we are not good enough to earn heaven on our own. It only comes through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. He died spiritually and physically so our sins could be washed away. Steve said, “Keep reminding yourselves. It’s not us. It’s Jesus.

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

Pastor Steve will be back in the pulpit on Sunday, November 29, 2020 delivering the third part of the 3 part series - Conversations with Jesus – Jesus talks with a Thirsty Person based on John 4:1-26 - for those of you who like to follow the scripture lesson. The other scripture lessons are OT Isaiah 55.1-9 and NT is Revelation 22.12-17. November 29, 2020 is the beginning of Advent.

Tom Risch Speaks at St. Paul’s UCC for Veterans Day
Remembrance Day also celebrated
by Sheila Baltzell-Linn
St. Paul's United Church of Christ members welcomed Tom Risch to the pulpit on November 8, 2020 with his Veterans Day message.  Becky Shope and Connie Sapp prepared the sanctuary for this occasion with red-white-blue flowers on the altar, organ and piano; flags for each branch of the military hung on the back wall; and the Fallen Soldiers Table displayed at the front.  

 

Veterans from St. Paul’s were welcomed forward, by Becky, to be recognized for their sacrifices. They included Jerry Bollenbacher, Denny Laffin, Marvin Schaadt, Jerry Schaadt, Gary Deitsch, and Gus Bollenbacher. Two veterans are in assisted living facilities now and were unable to be with us: Jerome Bollenbacher and Duane Linn. John Ousley was absent. All received a card and gifts from the church.

Then Becky read and Connie re-enacted the touching symbolism of The Fallen Soldier’s Table. The significance of each is below:

1. The table is round to show the never ending concern for the missing comrade.

2. The tablecloth is white to symbolize the purity of their motives to respond when answering the call to serve their country.

3. The place setting is a clean, white placemat, plate, bread plate, cloth napkin and utensils. This setting represents your wish that the missing comrade could be present at the happy occasion with you.

4. The black napkin represents the sorrow of captivity.

5. The table is set for one representing the frailty of one prisoner against his oppressors.

6. The single red rose displayed in a vase represents the blood shed while protecting our freedom, the life of each missing American and their loving family and friends who kept the faith while awaiting answers of those who serve. They are held with highest respect for that is what they deserve.

7. The yellow ribbon represents our continued uncertainty, hope for their return, determination to account for them as we pray that they’re watched over and kept close to God.

8. The slice of lemon on the bread plate reminds us of the bitter fate of those captured in a foreign land.

9. The salt upon the plate represents the countless tears endured by those missing and their families who long for answers after decades of uncertainty.

10. The Bible represents the strength gained through faith to sustain us and those lost from our country, founded as one nation under God.

11. The candle reflects the light of hope that lives in our hearts to illuminate their return home, alive or dead, away from their captors to open arms of a grateful nation.

12. The glass inverted represents the inability to share a toast.

13. The American Flag reminds us that many of them may never return and have paid the supreme sacrifice to ensure our freedoms and our nation’s strength and unity.

14. The chair is empty – the missing comrade isn’t here.

This table is to honor America’s POW’s, MIA’s, and Fallen Soldiers from each branch of our armed service: Army; Marine Corps; Navy; Air Force; Coast Guard; Army Reserve; Army National Guard; Marine Core Reserve; Navy Reserve; Air Force Reserve; Air National Guard and Coast Guard Reserve.

Included in the service was Remembrance Sunday and the families of four deceased members came forward to light a candle for their loved one – as the name was read by Becky Shope and the church bell was tolled by Mark Linn. It was solemn and fitting to remember the lives of the late: Anna Lee Linn; Clara Brinkman; Mary Luginbill; and Ruby Bollenbacher. They were faithful members of our church. Members then came forward to light a candle for others who have passed and are deeply missed.

Tom Risch spoke about his 34 years as the director of the Mercer County Veterans Association. He sees our Veterans when they come home, humble men and women, privileged to have served out country. He spoke of Mercer Countian Don Howell whose medals were lost or destroyed from WWII. Tom helped him get them replaced. He is the most decorated Veteran in Mercer County with his highest award the Navy Cross for his role while guarding the American Flag at Mt. Suribachi. This flag is known around the world. The Raising of this Flag on Iwo Jima is an iconic photograph of six United States Marines raising the U.S. flag atop Mount Suribachi.  The Navy Cross was bestowed on Don Howell by the Secretary of the Navy and is the second highest decoration for Valor in Combat.

Mercer Countian Father George Wilson’s story was another that touched Tom Risch’s heart. He was a soldier in the Navy and captured in WWII when his ship was attacked. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge and crossed an icy river 4 times. Tom said you never forget these stories, even after the Veterans have passed away. Tom also spoke of the widows and families left behind. Betty Shope is one who receives benefits from the service of her late husband Ed Shope, Sr.

St. Paul’s and an entire nation is grateful to the men and women who have served and those currently serving in the uniformed services of the United States and are ever mindful that the sweetness of enduring peace has always been tainted by the bitterness of personal sacrifice.

Triad to Present Ministry of Music at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH will be welcoming the local band Triad to their Sunday morning worship service at 10 A.M on November 22, 2020.

Triad (featuring Mike Bruns, Kent Krogman and Dan Schoen)  will present a ministry in music Praise Service with some sing-a-long favorites.

Everyone is invited. Cleaning and sanitizing is done weekly in our church. And we follow the guidelines from Governor DeWine to wear masks, socially distance, and use hand sanitizer.

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

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

 
November 11, 2020 
 

Rockford Army Veteran Gary Davis Proudly Served in Rakkasan Unit
by Sheila Baltzell-Linn 11-11-2020
Thank you to Marcia Ripley for suggesting this story.

According to Rockford native, Gary Davis, in the Army, one of the most decorated and revered units is called the Rakkasan. Receiving their name from the Japanese word for “falling down umbrellas men” during the WWII first jump into Japan after the war, the name stuck for the 8000 strong member retired and active Army Veterans and parachutists of the 187^th Airborne Infantry Regiment, at home at Ft. Campbell, KY. Known as the Rakkasans, by official petition of the US Congress, this division of the Army’s 101^st, keeps careful track of their membership both online and through reunions. The first jump into Japan in what was supposed to be the first invasion at the end of the war, awed the Japanese women and children who said “Rakkasan” to the men. Because the paratroopers met no gunfire, it was not an official combat jump, but nevertheless became the important beginning of a new division of the Army. That jump was not counted as a combat zone jump, according to Gary, but it WAS the 1^st opposing force to enter onto Japanese soil in 3000 years.  The Rakkasan served in all of these wars: WWII; Korea; Lebanon; Viet Nam; Persian Gulf; Afghanistan and Iraq. The organization is incorporated with officers and a board of directors.

Gary became a Rakkasan by virtue of the unit he volunteered into way back, but his retirement years have found him great satisfaction in the organization where he served 3 years as the Rakkasan National Secretary, traveling the USA with his wife, Ruth (Linn) Davis, also from Rockford. She has enjoyed Gary’s job as much as he has, making new friends while he made new friends and renewed old military acquaintances. Gary carries a life membership as does Ruth who is a Lady Rakkasan with a life membership in Ohio Buckeye Chapter & National Chapter.

It is same 187^th Airborne Infantry Regiment that Gary Davis, teenager from Rockford, joined between the Korean War and the Viet Nam War from 1962-1964. Gary never saw active duty, but completed 36 jumps in his Army career and very nearly went to Cuba for the Cuban Blockade-Missile Crisis, authorized and halted by then President John F. Kennedy. Gary remembers that 7 days clearly. They mustered out on Red Alert at 3 AM, packed their parachutes, gear and live ammunition. Flying in to Millington, TN Air Station (a land-locked Naval base), they then slept in two man tents on the ground beside the constantly running C1-30’s. Fortunately they did not have to go, but he became friends with Allen Ogram his tent mate. Allen always woke, saying, “Welcome World!” and said many times, “I’m not scared yet!” Gary said, “I was never afraid when I jumped ~ at least once my chute opened.”

Gary was 17 when and took basic training for 8 weeks at Ft. Knox. Moving on to Ft. Gordon, GA, he became a radio teletype operator, an obsolete skill now-a-days, but Gary still know his MORSE code! Airborne School followed at Ft. Benning, GA. Three weeks of jumping started with jumping off 250 foot high towers. Lift and drop. Then two weeks of moving to C1-19 plane jumps, doing 5 of them a day, dropping 32 men one right after the other. Gary learned to jump off the back and out of the side. Completing jump school and moving on, he went to Ft. Campbell in KY. See picture of his Unit with their burro that carries their banner into battle. And, no, the burro doesn’t jump; he is shipped with great care. He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1964

Above: Notice the burro mascot with the banner on its back; Gary is standing behind it far left soldier in that row.

Gary has had the pleasure, as National Secretary, to speak directly to some of the most decorated Veterans in the United States. One such Buckeye Chapter veteran died recently who was awarded a Silver Star meaning he had jumped 7 times into combat, two were in Korea.  Another set of twins he met from Chicago, had joined during the Korean War. They were together in the 187^th, but served in different battalions. When one brother got shot, the other risked his life to save him. They both became medics. As 88 year olds, they spent the rest of their lives living near each other. Gary and Ruth attended the funeral of one of them recently. The Tori symbol is Japanese meaning "We may die, but our soul passes through this gateway to heaven."

When Gary joined the Rakkasan Organization after his retirement in 2012, little did he realize that he would soon be looking at an elected office. He and Ruth were enjoying catching up with old military buddies and their wives as well as meeting new friends at reunions at the Ohio Buckeye Headquarters and around the country at National Events. However, in 2016 he agreed to run for National Secretary. Before the election could happen, the incumbent secretary was found to be unfit, and they asked Gary to step in when the former was relieved of his status. Gary stepped up to the plate and learned a new software and database to keep the Rakkasan National. Gary was quick to mention that St. Marys Librarian, Karen tutored him on the software program. Gary said 8500 men and women are on the database located in Detroit Michigan. Some of these soldiers and wives are deceased, but it was his job to keep the database up-to-date. It was also his job to help any veteran or spouse with an problem. He spent many hours on the phone fielding calls for help. The database was ship-shape when Gary retired form the secretary’s job in 2019. The new secretary, Erik Lind, a Gulf War veteran, came in and built a new database using Gary’s records. Now it is all Internet-based and searchable. The new Shimbun newsletter is completely online, but any veteran or spouse without Internet stills gets a printed copy. Gary and Ruth are both Lifetime members in Rakkasan.

Gary was awarded the Trooper of the Year in 2017 (Called the Static Line Award) and accepted his award in Atlanta, GA at the all airborne awards banquet. Picture above.This award is a big honor and it was personally presented to him by Lieutenant General Anderson (a currently serving 3 star lieutenant) who flew in from Washington DC. During that same ceremony, George Dumas, a Greek immigrant, 101 years old, was awarded the oldest living paratrooper veteran, but not the 187^th. Lieutenant General Anderson knelt on his knee for 20 minutes and talked to George about his story. He immigrated at 11; was without a family; had a family vouch for him at Ellis Island; no papers; lived on the streets of NYC; washed dishes and swept hair in a barber shop until he could join the Army; became a USA Citizen; was awarded 3 purple hearts in combat; he was in the Army for life. Gary said it was his greatest moment to hear George Dumas tell his story and see Anderson respecting him. 

In 2019, Gary received another award, Rakkasan of the Year (Distinguished Member of the Regiment at a banquet in Hopkinsville, KY. He will be on this Distinguished list forever. Ruth Davis, his wife, was Lady Rakkasan of the Year in 2018.

In one final story, Gary met up years later with Robert Rivas, his unit buddy, who actually was from CA and traveled several times to Rockford while they were at Ft. Campbell. They kept in touch but Rivas died. Rivas became a long shoreman in Los Angeles. In 2017 Gary and Ruth visited his widow, and they all went to the cemetery. Then Rivas’ son brought out the veteran’s Rakkasan flag and presented it to Gary, his pal, and said that his father asked that the flag be given to Gary after his death. Gary has flown that very flag in Rockford. When Gary dies, the flag will go back to Rivas’ son in CA. This was a very touching moment for Gary.

Gary and Ruth enjoy their time visiting with Rakkasan friends all over the United States.

To learn more about Rakkasan, go to rakkasanassociation.org

Click on smaller thumbnails below to enlarge the picture.

 
November 1-10, 2020 
 

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

Bicentennial Mural Dedicated in Rockford Ohio
On October 11,2020  the Rockford Historic Mural was dedicated to the Rockford Community as a
“BIRTHDAY GIFT” to Rockford in celebration of the 200th Bicentennial.  
The Mural was completed on July 4, 2020 by Artist Dan Keyes.   More information on the presentation
and the mural can be found at https://rockfordalive.com/rockford-bicentennial/historic-mural

A special thank you to all who donated time and efforts toward the Rockford Bicentennial Mural.

Norm Van Tilburg, President of the Shane Crossing Historical Society
Mike Schuum, Rockford Bicentennial Chairman

Twyla Hayes, Rockford Bicentennial Mural Organizer
Dan Keyes, Artist
Harrison Frech, Historian

Rockford Fire Department
Rob Belna
Dick Pontius
Barb and Mike Pedroza
Janet and Mike Riley
Kevin LaBrun
Rob Russell
Ted Samaniego
Stober Farm

Barb Bowen
Nancy Leighner
Pete Hayes
Austin Barna
Jordan Belna
Bob Maurer
Aaron Fent, A&A Greenhouse
Andy Fent, A&A Greenhouse
Chad Ransbottom
Blair Shaffer, Village Worker
Joe Roth, Village Worker
Larry Stephenson, Benches
Johnny Harrod, Mercer Metal
Brand It Marketing. design of display board and brochures

State Route 707 and 118 Intersection Stop Sign Update
ODOT update – State Route 707 / 118 ---  Per Mary @ ODOT --  we have a project in design that will cut the hill south of
the intersection to increase sight distance. This project is scheduled to be awarded to a contractor in July 2023.  

However, in light of the on-going crashes and incidents, we are also going to replace the existing stop ahead signs on
the SR 707 approaches with LED stop ahead signs.    Currently, the signs are on order and we expect to have their
installation complete by the first of February 2021.  

The Rockford Area Community thanks ODOT for taking the time to talk to us and allow us to give feedback for what we
know is a very dangerous intersection!

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – November 5, 2020
by Jason Menchhofer
CELINA- As of November 5, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 1822 confirmed cases, 228 probable cases, 1,461 recovered cases, 67 pending cases, 4,494 negative cases, 29 hospitalizations, 30 deaths, and 2 probable deaths of COVID-19. There have been 4 confirmed cases who have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19. Currently, there are 327 active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County. The 30th death from COVID-19 in Mercer County was a 94 year-old male from Rockford. The MCHD staff offers condolences to the family and friends of this man during their time of grief. As of today, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) reports a COVID-19 incidence rate of 728 new cases per 100,000 residents over the past two weeks. Mercer County is seeing the largest surge in confirmed cases of COVID-19 since the virus was first detected in the county more than seven months ago. Because the MCHD staff is unable to keep up with the large number of cases being reported each day, Mercer County Medical Reserve Corps volunteers who have assisted with contact tracing for several months are now being reassigned to handle positive case interviews. When these interviews lead to the identification of people who may have been exposed, each of those people will be sent a quarantine letter, but they may not be contacted directly by MCHD during their quarantine period. MCHD asks that anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 be sure to stay at home and isolate from others to avoid exposure. Everyone who tests positive for COVID-19 will be contacted by MCHD, but this may take several days due to the abundance of cases. The number of Mercer County residents who are hospitalized with COVID-19 has increased drastically. One of the goals of community efforts to control the spread of COVID-19 is to help prevent hospitals from becoming overwhelmed so that they have the capacity to treat people with other serious health problems. Although area hospitals are operating closer to capacity than they normally do, the large hospitals are still able to accept transfers at this time. The MCHD Facebook page is functional again, and MCHD will resume posting daily COVID-19 updates and other public health information to the page. MCHD staff will not be managing COVID-19 cases on Sunday, November 8. The MCHD office will also be closed on Veterans Day, which falls on next Wednesday, November 11

On November 5, 2020, the Van Wert County General Health District reports an increase in 64 cases since October 28, 2020, for a total of 392 cases, according to Britt Menchhofer.

Retired Pastor Steve Howell returning to the pulpit at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ
St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcome the return of retired Pastor Steve Howell to the pulpit on Sunday, November 15, 2020.  

On November 1, 2020 Retired Pastor Steve Howell from Grace Missionary Church began delivering the first in a three part series in November called “Conversations with Jesus”. November 1^st was “Jesus Talks with a Sincere Person” based on John 1:43-51.

On this Sunday, November 15, 2020, Steve’s lesson will be “Jesus Talks with a Good Person” based on John 3:1-18 for those of you who like to follow the scriptures.

The members at St. Paul are excited to have Pastor Steve back. Plan now to join us. Everyone is welcome.

Social distancing and other rules are being followed to keep everyone safe.
Please call Dave Taylor at 419-733-1155 for any questions regarding the worship services.

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

Tom Rish of Mercer County Veteran’s Association to present Veteran’s Day Message
St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH will welcome Tom Rish of the Mercer County Veteran’s Association on Sunday November 11, 2020 in honor of Veteran’s Day.

All veterans and their families, and current servicemen and servicewomen are invited to this patriotic program to honor veterans.

The members at St. Paul are excited to have Tom Rish coming. Everyone is welcome.

Social distancing and other rules are being followed to keep everyone safe.
Please call Dave Taylor at 419-733-1155 for any questions regarding the worship services.

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

Van Wert Health to Honor Veterans with Drive-Thru Event

We must take time to celebrate our veterans and reflect our community’s commitment to recognizing the men and women who have fought for our freedoms and liberties.  On Wednesday, November 11, 2020, Van Wert Health will host a special event to honor those who have served, or are currently serving, in our military.  This year, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the event will be a ‘drive thru’ event from 4:00-6:00 PM at Van Wert Health North, located at 214 Towne Center Boulevard, Van Wert, Ohio.

“The women and men who serve in our nation’s armed forces make tremendous sacrifices to ensure our nation’s freedom,” said Jim Pope, President and CEO of Van Wert Health.  “Although our event looks different than it has in past years, I am proud that we can still honor veterans from our community and to personally thank our service members, both past and present.”

Guests will receive a special gift bag with a t-shirt, gift cards to local restaurants, veterans pin, among other items.

When guests enter the drive of Van Wert Health North, there will be a staff member and signage to direct them where to go. All guests will be able to stay in their vehicles for this drive-thru event.

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

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Pastor Steve Howell to the pulpit on Sunday, November 1, 2020. His inspiring message, titled, “Conversations with Jesus – Jesus talks with a sincere person,” included Biblical verses from the Old and New Testament about the meaning of faith, examples of Abel, Enoch, and Noah as well as the faith of Abraham. Steve went on to read the Gospel Lesson from John 1:43-51 covering Jesus early in his ministry – right after he was baptized by John the Baptist – when he began to call his disciples into service. Steve spoke of John being the first prophet from God to speak in 400 years since Malachi last had prophesied. Pastor Howell discussed Simon being called as the first follower. Then Philip was called to follow, and it was he who went to his friend Nathaniel and bid him to “just come and hear Jesus”. Nathaniel wondered if something good could come out of Nazareth (they were from rival towns). When Nathaniel went, Jesus immediately approached him and said, “Here is truly an Israelite in whom there is no deceit.” Nathaniel asked Jesus how he knew him, and Jesus replied, “I saw you under the fig tree before Philip called you.” Nathaniel was so excited he declared that Jesus was the son of God and the King of Israel. Steve reminded the congregants when you’re crushed and anxious, go to God in prayer. He doesn’t love us because we are lovable, He loves us because He is loving and steadfast. A good day or a bad day, He loves us no less – constant love as declared in Lamentations: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases. His mercies never come to an end.” Pastor Steve Howell is a retired minister from Grace Missionary church.

Pastor Steve will be back in the pulpit on Sunday, November 15, 2020 delivering the second part of the 3 part series - Conversations with Jesus – Jesus talks with a good person based on John 3:1-18 - for those of you who like to follow the scripture lesson.

Linn Couple Celebrating 65^th Wedding Anniversary

Duane and Patricia “Pat” Linn, of Miller Place, 1506 Meadowview Drive, Apt. 121, Celina, OH 45822 are celebrating their 65^th wedding anniversary. Duane Linn and Patricia Hone were married 65 years ago on November 10, 1955 at a little chapel in Yuma, Arizona where Duane was stationed in the Marine Corps. Duane is now retired from Conrail and farming, and Pat is retired from Chief Supermarket. They are lifelong members of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ on Oregon Rd.  The couple has two sons Mark (Sheila) Linn and Monte (Renee) Linn. There are four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

 
October 28-31, 2020 
 

Leota Braun Annual Harvest Banquet is Canceled for 2020

It is with regret that the Leota Braun Charitable Foundation Board of Directors have made a difficult decision to
cancel the Annual Harvest Banquet.    

For 18 years this banquet has been a catalyst to provide scholarships to the graduating seniors at
Parkway Local Schools.    The Foundation awards 3 scholarships annually, 2 LBCF scholarships in the amount
of $500 each and one Robert Thompson Scholarship in the amount of $1000.  We also oversee a one-time
grant for continuing education in the Medical or Dental Field.

With the cancellation of the banquet, we will not have the opportunity to raise needed funds for the scholarship
programs.     Would you please consider making a monetary donation to the Leota Braun Charitable Foundation for the
students of Parkway Local Schools?  Your donation to the scholarship fund will have a lasting impact on the lives
of our students.   We are molding the future of our communities.

Thank you for your consideration  - please mail tax-deductible donations to:

The Leota Braun Charitable Foundation
P.O. Box 364
Rockford, OH 45882-0364


"Intelligent giving today.... benefiting generations to come"

Deacon Tom Sanford Delivers Sermon

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH welcomed Deacon Tom Sanford back to the pulpit on Sunday, October 25, 2020.  

Deacon Sanford is with Kingdom Harvest Ministries in Celina. They are the church that is partnering with schools and communities to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to youth in the area. RTBE (Released Time Bible Education) serves over 100 students in the Parkway and Celina Schools. Students can get dual high school and college course credit for this off-school site curriculum during the regular school day.

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

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

 
October 26-27, 2020  
 

Willshire Trick or Treat Planned
Trick or Treat will be held in the village of Willshire on Saturday, October 31st from 4 pm – 6 pm. Beginning at 6 pm, the Parkway High School Marching Band will be providing musical entertainment in the Willshire Park. The band is planning to play musical selections from the marching band season. This will be a great opportunity to listen to and support the band as most community members did not have the opportunity to hear the group this year. This year there will not be the traditional costume judging, however there will be a recognition of those that are dressed in costumes. Donuts, hot dogs, cider, and hot chocolate will be available for all. The event is being co-sponsored by the Willshire American Legion Post # 207 and the Willshire Lions Club. Due to the current situation, the activities in the park are subject to change.

ROCKFORD , OHIO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
AND AREA BUSINESSES TO BRING FALL FEST TO THE COMMUNITY on October 31, 2020
      
Exciting news, details for our inaugural Rockford, OHIO Fall Fest have been
announced. Many details are still shaping up and vendor lists will be
released soon.
      
On October 31, 2020 starting at 10:00 am
  
Many retailers will have specials going on that day. Other events include but are not limited to, Make and Take Pumpkin Craft at the Library @ 10:00 am -
Sponsored by Homes at Ohio's Edge Realty, The Rockford Carnegie
Library and the Widows Group, Vendor Market along Main Street starting
@ 10:00 am, Halloween Hustle 5K Walk/Run @ 10:30 am - Sponsored by
Rock Solid Performance and Second Crossing Brew Co, Chicken Dinners from the Rockford Carryout, Burgers and treats at New Horizons Church, Live
Music at Second Crossing @ 12:00 pm, Rockford Pub Crawl (details
forthcoming), Axe Throwing (adults only) at Second Crossing starting
at 2:00 pm, Pre Trick-Or-Treat photo opportunities provided by Laura
Putman Photography starting at 3:30 pm and Live Music and Halloween
Party at Second Crossing starting at 7:00 pm.

Trick or Treat will be from 5 - 7 pm with several trunk or treat
trails in the Village.

    
Mask wearing and social distancing is recommended. Enforcement of the
state mandate is at the discretion of each business owner and is not
regulated by the Rockford Ohio Chamber of Commerce. Rockford Ohio
Chamber of Commerce events are attended at the risk of the attendee.
Rockford Ohio Chamber of Commerce is not liable for risk of exposure
to viruses. Please adhere to all state mandates and social distancing
recommendations.

Chicken Dinner Benefit Planned by Rockford Lions Club – November 7

The Rockford Lions Club is preparing for a Lions Scholarship Chicken Dinner on Saturday, November 7, 2020 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Rockford Carry Out, 156 S. Main Street in Rockford, OH.  Dinner includes chicken, potato chips, applesauce, cookie, and water.  Rockford Lions Club projects help fulfill local community needs & requests. Proceeds from the Chicken Dinner project will help fund Lions Club scholarships awarded to graduating seniors in the Parkway High School Class of 2021. 

Chicken Dinner tickets for the November 7th event are $10.00 each.  Tickets are available now at the Rockford Carry Out @ 156 South Main Street, from any Rockford Lions Club member, and by contacting the Rockford Lions Club through their social media page on Facebook @ Rockford Lions Club, Rockford OH. 

As 'We Serve' we also care for the health and well-being of our members and our community.  Beginning November 9th, 2020 The Rockford Lions Club will hold a monthly virtual (online) meeting on the second Monday of each month.  

Photo:  Chartered in 1977, on October 24, 2020 the Rockford Lions Club began their 44th year as a member of The International Association of Lions Clubs.  In 2017, before social distancing, charter members Norm Van Tilburg, Dan Henkle, and Darrell Sheppard were honored as the club celebrated their 40th anniversary.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update – October 27, 2020

By Jason Menchhofer

CELINA-

As of October 27, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 1,484 confirmed cases, 169 probable cases, 1,287 recovered cases, 105 pending cases, 4,201 negative cases, 13 hospitalizations, 27 deaths, and 2 probable deaths of COVID-19.

There have been 3 confirmed cases who have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19. Currently, there are 164 active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County.

As of today, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) reports Mercer County has seen 476 new cases per 100,000 residents over the past two weeks. This is the third highest incidence rate in the state.

Last Friday afternoon the MCHD Facebook page was unpublished.  MCHD staff are looking into this, but currently do not know why the page was taken down or when it will be published again.  Until the MCHD Facebook page is available, daily updates will be provided on the front page of the MCHD website at www.mchdohio.org. 

 
October 23-25, 2020 
 

Remember!
November 1, 2020 - Daylight Saving Time Ends

Local daylight savings time changes:

Sunday, November 1, 2020, 2:00:00 am clocks are turned backward 1 hour to
Sunday, November 1, 2020, 1:00:00 am local standard time instead.

Sunrise and sunset will be about 1 hour earlier on Nov 1, 2020 than the day before. There will be more light in the morning.

Also called Fall Back and Winter Time.

Red Ribbon Celebration During Week of October 26, 2020
Red Ribbon Week is an alcohol, tobacco, and other drug and violence prevention awareness campaign observed annually in October in the United States. It began as a tribute to fallen DEA special agent Enrique Camerena in 1985.

We are encouraging businesses and agencies to participate in staff spirit week with your employees during Red Ribbon Week: There is also a post on our Facebook page (and consider making a donation to our YBA account--see post). https://www.facebook.com/865882406764579/posts/3834817366537720/

We need your votes for the Red Ribbon Week photo contest! Please vote for your favorite photo contest entries here or by joining to the Mercer County Prevention Coalition page on Facebook.

K-3: Voting until Sunday at 1 pm https://www.facebook.com/865882406764579/posts/3828617910490999/  

4-6: Voting until Monday at 1 pm https://www.facebook.com/865882406764579/posts/3831406586878798/ 

7-12: Voting until Tuesday at 1 pm https://www.facebook.com/865882406764579/posts/3833914603294663/ 

Family: Voting until Wednesday at 1 pm https://www.facebook.com/865882406764579/posts/3836822739670516/   

The Rockford Carnegie Library will hold its rescheduled monthly meeting for October on Tuesday, October 27, at 4 p.m. at the Rockford Carnegie Library.  The public is invited to attend.

 
October 21-22, 2020 
 

MAC Tournament – Hooray for the Parkway 7th Grade Volleyball Team

The Parkway 7th Grade Volleyball team capped off an undefeated regular season by winning the MAC Tournament on Saturday, October 17. The team finished the regular season with a 14-0 record and then ran the tables in the MAC tournament by defeating Minster, Versailles and St Henry to complete a perfect season with a 17-0 overall record. Team members include: Front Row: Ashtlynn Muhlenkamp, Christina Tong, Addison Reigle, Brittyn Bruns, Emmery Temple, Addison Fisher, Haley Perry, Gabryelle Sill  Middle Row: Milee Peel, Taylor Minnich  Back Row: 7th Coach Tami Suzuki, Ava Pond, Colbie Smith, Bryn Schoenleben, Natalie Moeller, Cora Wenning, Megan Nichols, Taylor Muhlenkamp, Jordyn Schaefer, 8th Coach Lisa Miller

 
October 19-20, 2020 
 

Dane Bailey, The Singing Auctioneer, Shares Ministry of Christ with Singing at St. Paul’s UCC on October 18, 2020

St. Paul's United Church of Christ members welcomed Dane Bailey of Ft. Wayne, IN to the pulpit on October 18, 2020 with his Christian message through singing favorite Gospel music, sharing his story of growing up near Chattanooga, Ohio and sharing a little auctioneering fun as well.

Dane witnessed to his life in Christ’s care, as he grew up in a farming family just a short mile from Chattanooga. During the summer he worked the fields while his parents had day jobs. At lunchtime, he drove the tractor into Chatt for something good to eat at Harold Bollenbacher’s grocery store and some friendly chatter with the boys gathered at the feed mill. He reminisced about baseball games in Chatt with some of the men attending church this morning. He later spoke of hockey games on the pond behind the Kleinhenz Stockyard in Chatt that Ervin “Bud” Wood operated and hockey games on the St. Marys River with the boys from Willshire. He was raised in the Bethel Brethren Church just across the IN line and after high school graduation, he thought about seminary school and began singing in a gospel band. He decided on Engineering at Tri-State College, as a degree, but God had plans for him in music, too.  A heating and air conditioning engineer by trade, he always found time to sing. For many years, he was in a Dixie Land Jazz Band with friend Vaughn Roberts, and sang one of his Gospel Jazz favorites for the crowd at St. Paul’s, “I was Once a Sinner”. Today, at 74 years old, he has spent his adult lifetime entertaining through Christian songs and hymns and travels the country 7 months a year, with his wife, in his motor home.  Some of the favorites he sang ~ and had the congregation joining in ~ were: “Every Promise in the Book is Mine”; “Standing on the Promises of God”; “It is Well with My Soul”; and “ The Old Rugged Cross.” He recently held a concert for a church and then afterwards called an auction for them of homemade pies and cakes for missions. He helped raise $8500 for missions that day.

Dane ended with these words, “Never doubt in the dark what God shows you in the light. The same God is with us, is still God, always and forever.”

Deacon Tom Sanford (from Kingdom Harvest Ministries)
returning to St. Paul’s United Church of Christ
St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH will welcome Deacon Tom Sanford back to the pulpit on Sunday, October 25, 2020.  

Deacon Sanford is with Kingdom Harvest Ministries in Celina. They are the church that is partnering with schools and communities to bring the Gospel of Jesus Christ to youth in the area. RTBE (Released Time Bible Education) serves over 100 students in the Parkway and Celina Schools. Students can get dual high school and college course credit for this off-school site curriculum during the regular school day.

On November 1, 2020 Retired Pastor Steve Howell from Grace Missionary Church will be in the pulpit delivering the first in a three part series in November called “Conversations with Jesus”. November 1^st is “Jesus Talks with a Sincere Person” based on John 1:43-51.

Social distancing and other rules are being followed to keep everyone safe. Plan now to join us. Everyone is welcome.

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

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

 
October 16-18, 2020 
 

Celina area boy in need of liver transplant
By Amber Mustard 

October is usually seen as Breast Cancer Awareness month. But for this local family, Liver Awareness Month is at the forefront, a month touted by the American Liver Foundation to raise public awareness of the importance of liver health. More than 30 million Americans suffer with some form of liver disease. This Mercer County family is waiting for the call for their son’s second chance at life.

Colten Mustard, age 12, is listed for a Liver Transplant. His parents, Peter and Amber Mustard of Celina, delivered their first of three children in 2008 and had a rather uncomplicated birth and pregnancy. During their son’s first wellness screening their pediatrician noticed his slightly jaundiced skin and a heal stick was immediately ordered. After that, blood draws came every few days to monitor his liver bilirubin levels. As Colten’s lab levels kept increasing, his stool turned pale as well. He was referred to Nationwide Children’s Hospital GI Clinic for further testing. 

Amber and Pete were told their son had a life-threatening disease called Biliary Atresia (BA), which is a rare liver disease impacting one in every 10,000 to 15,000 children. Children are born with this disease and doctors do not know, as of yet, what causes it to occur. After more ultrasounds and a biopsy, Colten underwent the Kasai procedure, which is sometimes a ‘surgical fix’ for BA babies and a way to postpone a liver transplant.  A few weeks later, he had a second surgery to correct a twisted bowel.

Colten’s surgery was considered a success. He only had a few inpatient hospital stays and annual check-ups with his liver team during his childhood. However, like in most cases, even when surgery is successful, patients will suffer gradual damage to the liver. Colten was diagnosed with hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) after a week-long hospital stay in May due to cholangitis. HPS affects the lungs of people with advanced liver disease. In September, Colten met with his Liver Team at Nationwide Children’s for a 2-day transplant evaluation. His team of doctors decided Colten should officially be listed on the UNOS (United Network for Organ Sharing) Active Liver Transplant List. 

A liver transplant social worker suggested community fundraising with the Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA). As the Mustard Family waits for ‘the call’ for a perfect liver, their family members teamed with COTA for Colten to raise funds for a lifetime of transplant-related expenses. COTA uniquely understands that parents who care for a child or young adult before, during and after a life-saving transplant have enough to deal with, so COTA’s model shifts the responsibility for fundraising to a community team of trained volunteers consisting of family and friends selected by the Mustard family.

Amber stated, “We are happy to be working together with COTA. They allowed us to choose some of our family members to head the fundraising, so it has really helped in releasing that worry because it’s people we know and trust. The funds will be available for a lifetime and Colten will have a long journey ahead even after transplant.” Colten’s Aunt, Alyssa Rutter, is organizing fundraising events such as bake sales, t-shirt sales and a videogame tourney. For more information, to make a donation, or to follow Colten’s transplant journey visit www.COTAforColten.com or the CaringforColten Facebook page. COTA is a 501(c)3 charity so contributions to COTA are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law, and COTA funds are available for a lifetime of transplant-related expenses.  

Trick or Treat will be from 5 - 7 pm on Saturday, October 31, 2020 with several trunk or treat
trails in the Village of Rockford. There will be no Costume Judging this year.

Calvary Evangelical Church Re-opens

St. Paul's UCC Women's Fellowship Members Donate to Kingdom Harvest Ministries
 
The Women's Fellowship at St. Paul's UCC on Oregon Road west of Rockford recently voted to donate $250 to Tom Sanford, director and teacher of Kingdom Harvest Ministries, located in Celina. Tom Sanford recently delivered a Sunday message at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ about “Total Submission” and then went on to explain the formation of Kingdom Harvest Ministries, a group of ministers looking to teach the word of God to children at Parkway and Celina School Systems. Parkway children are 4th grade through 12th grade and are dismissed to attend classes at New Horizons Church during their designated times. Celina’s high school students have the same opportunity at the old gymnastics center across from Celina High School. The KHM group felt led to this project, and Tom witnessed that total submission for him was to give up his public school teaching position and become the licensed teacher for KHM. Kingdom Harvest Ministries was recently recognized as first in the Nation in providing dual credit (High School & College) for their Parkway H.S. students attending ½ hour classes at New Horizons Church in Rockford during their regular school day.  God has blessed this program according to Tom. The Women’s Fellowship met recently, discussed this important program, and felt strongly that a donation was in order. Sheila Baltzell-Linn presented the check to Tom Sanford - see above.

ROCKFORD , OHIO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND AREA BUSINESSES TO BRING FALL FEST TO THE COMMUNITY
      
Exciting news, details for our inaugural Rockford, OHIO Fall Fest have been
announced. Many details are still shaping up and vendor lists will be
released soon.
      
On October 31, 2020 starting at 10:00 am
  
Many retailers will have specials going on that day. Other events include but are not limited to, Make and Take Pumpkin Craft at the Library @ 10:00 am -
Sponsored by Homes at Ohio's Edge Realty, The Rockford Carnegie
Library and the Widows Group, Vendor Market along Main Street starting
@ 10:00 am, Halloween Hustle 5K Walk/Run @ 10:30 am - Sponsored by
Rock Solid Performance and Second Crossing Brew Co, Chicken Dinners from the Rockford Carryout, Burgers and treats at New Horizons Church, Live
Music at Second Crossing @ 12:00 pm, Rockford Pub Crawl (details
forthcoming), Axe Throwing (adults only) at Second Crossing starting
at 2:00 pm, Pre Trick-Or-Treat photo opportunities provided by Laura
Putman Photography starting at 3:30 pm and Live Music and Halloween
Party at Second Crossing starting at 7:00 pm.

Trick or Treat will be from 5 - 7 pm with several trunk or treat
trails in the Village.

    
Mask wearing and social distancing is recommended. Enforcement of the
state mandate is at the discretion of each business owner and is not
regulated by the Rockford Ohio Chamber of Commerce. Rockford Ohio
Chamber of Commerce events are attended at the risk of the attendee.
Rockford Ohio Chamber of Commerce is not liable for risk of exposure
to viruses. Please adhere to all state mandates and social distancing
recommendations.

Barn Quilt Tour Thank-You
A big thank you is sent out to all who participated In the Rockford Barn Quilt Bus Tour on Sept 19th.  

Thank you also to Prairiewood Primitives,  the Dandelion Schoolhouse and Vaughn Davis at the SchoolHouse Farms for
extending a warm welcome to all the shoppers.  

84 barn quilts were viewed on a beautiful Fall Day.  A wonderful lunch was served by Sondra Samples and Janet Riley.  

If you enjoyed the tour please tell your friends to watch the paper / Facebook next Spring when Deb and Barb will once
again take you on a tour of the countryside looking for Barn Quilts and bargains.

Van Wert Civic Theatre Launches “Save Our Stage” Campaign
Written by Deb Duncan-Faul

The cherished thespian battlecry "The Show Must Go On!" has been met with an unyielding foe this year - COVID. Theatres from Broadway and London's West End, to beloved community theatres continue to sit in silence with only the ghosts of past shows and applause to keep them company. But as relentless as this foe may be, and as unsettling as this is to the thousands of people who love and support live theatre, there still shines countless footlights of hope. Each and every person who has ever attended, helped, performed and supported a Van Wert Civic Theatre production can now take center stage for the greatest role of a lifetime - as a lifeline to keep the curtain rising on your local theatre through the "SOS, Save Our Stage" Campaign"!

When the pandemic struck, Van Wert Civic Theatre ceased all performances. Unfortunately, operating expenses needed to keep the theater viable and ready to go when it is safe to open up again, did not stop. Some of these expenses include mortgage payments, utilities, insurance, tax filings, and inspections to name a few. While cost-cutting measures have been taken, the truth is VWCT needs help to make sure the show will go on.

The goal is to raise enough money to cover expenses and prevent the theatre from being forced into a devastating financial situation as this pandemic continues. For those patrons who have held season tickets in the past, the theatre encourages you to donate the cost that would have been spent on season tickets toward the SOS Campaign. For everyone else, whether you’ve seen a show or not, you have a chance to play a huge part in the future of Van Wert Civic Theatre. 

Van Wert Civic Theatre thanks all who have already given to the SOS Campaign, and say "thank you" in advance to all who will make this valuable, tax-deductible contribution. Donations can be sent to Van Wert Civic Theatre, P.O. Box 823, Van Wert, OH 45891 or made online at VWCT.ORG.

As a final curtain call, those at Van Wert Civic Theatre say they miss the performances, the audiences, the volunteers, the actors and the crews. They ask that everyone stay safe and hope that once again, very soon, they will be able take a bow to your applause.

Remembering Our Heroes Through Music, Song & Spoken Word

Van Wert, OH—  — Area musicians will be performing in a community concert titled, “BETWEEN THE NOTES” Remembering Our Heroes Through Music, Song & Spoken Word which will be held in the sanctuary at First United Methodist Church of Van Wert on Saturday evening, November 7 at 7:00 PM.

This patriotic concert will include instrumental and vocal music that will pay tribute to our great nation and its veterans, active duty military, first responders, and even the heroes in our own personal lives.

The piano quartet of Marilyn Alessandrini, Annette Hoverman, Scott Turner & David Van Tilburg will be performing an exciting two piano & eight hand Mack Wilberg arrangement of “The Stars and Stripes Forever”. Also, Ms. Alessandrini, Mr. Turner & Mr. Van Tilburg will be performing organ and piano selections from composers Barber, Gottschalk, and Hayes.

Musical husband and wife team: Paul and Annette Hoverman, will join together to present the 9/11 inspired and very moving selection, “A Hymn for the Lost and the Living” for trumpet and piano by contemporary composer, Eric Ewazen.

Vocal selections from Adam Ries, Stacie Korte, Joel Trisel, and Sheila Chilcote-Collins will include the songs, “His Eye Is On The Sparrow”, “The Star Spangled Banner” and several other well-known selections.  Additionally, the ensemble, “in Spiritu” with Beth Conn, Melinda Farmer, Paula LaRue, Sandra Stemen, Kristina Welker, Ms. Korte & Ms. Collins will be presenting the popular hymn tune turned American folk song, “How Can I Keep From Singing” with Annette Hoverman accompanying the group.

David Van Tilburg will be at the keys as Ms. Chilcote-Collins and Mr. Trisel’s accompanist, Ms. Hoverman will be accompanying Ms. Korte, and Mr. Turner will serve as Mr. Ries’ accompanist.

Another musical husband and wife duo; Anthony and Marilyn Alessandrini, will be offering up a fun & funky trombone piece from contemporary composer, Jim Hopson. This number will be performed with Ms. Alessandrini joining her husband - not on the keys but on the cowbell! 

Ms. Chilcote-Collins stated, “I am very excited to share this concert with our community and to be able to join with these talented area musicians. It is also a chance for people to come out and enjoy live music once again in Van Wert.”

Please join us for a wonderful evening of music! This concert is free and open to the public. The First United Methodist Church is located on the corner of Jefferson and Central Streets in downtown Van Wert and practices all state mandated social distancing guidelines.

 
October 13-15, 2020 
 

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

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Pastor Doug Meyer to the pulpit on Sunday, October 11, 2020. His inspiring message, titled, “Whatever or Whatever it Takes,” included Biblical examples of the “whatever it takes” attitude. Pastor Doug shared that he once heard a motivational speaker say that people who shrug their shoulders and keep their heads down when asked to do something are the “whatever” people who don’t commit. By contrast, the “Whatever it takes people” lift their heads, look one right in the eye, and figure out what it is going to take to get the job done.

In the Gospel lesson of Mark 2:1-12, Pastor Doug told of Jesus healing the paralytic. While that was a great miracle, the determination of the friends of the paralytic shows a first class example of the “Whatever it Takes” attitude. Pastor Doug explained that the home in Capernaum was small and a large crowd had followed Jesus there. The four friends could not get the paralytic into the house because of all the people, and he was carried on a “stretcher”. But they did not shrug their shoulders and say “whatever”; they climbed to the earthen rooftop and dug a hole in it and lifted their friend down through the hole - on the stretcher – directly in front of Jesus. Because of their faith and determination to do ‘Whatever it takes”, their friend was healed by Jesus in a miracle. The paralytic rose, took up his stretcher and walked out of the house. The 4 friends are seen as the church in microcosm. Serving the Lord and bringing whatever it takes, we must be steadfast, true and bring others to Christ the Savior of the World just as the 4 friends did.

Pastor Doug  also served morning Holy Communion with the assistance of Dave Taylor. Disposable, individual communion chalices of wafer and juice was celebrated with 50 members.  Pastor Doug will be back in the pulpit on Sunday, November 22, 2020.

Celina Police Department Reports Truck in Pond Crash

On the evening of October 12, 2020 at about 9:30PM, 41 year old, Phillip Royce Andey, drove his 1999 Dodge pickup truck down a path in Westview Park at Fairground Rd., Celina.  He drove off of the path for an unknown reason and into the pond.  Andey was able to escape his truck and left on foot.  He reported the crash  a couple of hours later.

The crash remains under investigation.  Traffic charges will be forthcoming.

 
October 10-12, 2020 
 

Dane Bailey in Concert at St. Paul's United Church of Christ

You are invited to come hear, The Singing Auctioneer®, Dane Bailey at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH, Sunday, October 18, 2020 at 10 AM

In 1969 Dane felt a call to the ministry.  In 1975 Dane started seminary at Grace Theological Seminary, Winona Lake, IN and that fall did his first concert.  He has been traveling, ministering, and entertaining at churches, conferences, conventions, fairs, festivals, campgrounds, restaurants and banquets, as well as on radio and television ever since.  He also traveled with a gospel quartet for approximately four years.   In 2006, Dane was honored with an invitation to sing at the “Pageant of Peace,” an annual event held at the National Christmas Tree on the ellipse near the Whitehouse in Washington, DC.  

In 2001 Dane was able to take another step in his music career by stepping out as a full time singer-recording artist.  He now travels throughout the United States doing approximately one hundred concerts and averaging about 13,000 miles a year.  He has sixteen recordings and 2 live concert DVDs to his credit.  His music recordings are a mixture of music genre with most of them being Southern Gospel.  Believing that laughter lightens the heart, Dane released an all comedy project, “Laughin’ Time,” and with his traveling to our nation’s capitol for Christmas,   2006, released a project, “Live at Christmas.”   He has a big band project, a variety CD, and a Patriotic CD and DVD.  The list goes on “In The Garden,” “Amazing Grace,” and many others. His latest is a mixture of jazz and blue grass.   There is always something different to hear from beginning to end of his program.

Dane is a “real for sure auctioneer” and a growing part of his travels include auctioneering, entertaining, and emceeing for benefit functions.  He sells a lot of pies and cakes.  He was a real estate broker, and an instructor at the Reppert’s School of Auctioneering.  He was also a partner in Martin and Bailey Auction Realty in Fort Wayne, IN.

For more information on Dane, go to www.SingingAuctioneer.com.

Fatality reported in Mercer County – ATV Accident
Mercer County Sheriff, Jeff Grey reports that his office is investigating a fatal traffic crash that occurred on October the 9th, 2020.  Grey advised that his office received a 911 call at 11:55 PM advising of a crash that occurred on the Indiana – Ohio State Line Road just north of Fox Road in Gibson Township.   

Grey advised that the investigation found that 15 year old Jake D Muhlenkamp of 4516 N 700 E Portland, Indiana was operating a 2020 Polaris 570 4 Wheeler.  Muhlenkamp was northbound on State Line Road and for an unknown reason drove off of the right side of the roadway and struck a utility pole.  Muhlenkamp was ejected from the 4 wheeler.  Muhlenkamp was pronounced deceased by medical personnel at the scene. 

Assisting the Sheriff’s Office at the scene were members of the Fort Recovery Fire Department, St.Henry EMS and the Fort Recovery Police Department

 
October 8-9, 2020 
 

Democratic Rally
Democrats in Mercer Country will host a Joe Biden/Kamala Harris Meet up at 2pm, Oct the 10th in Rockford at Shanes Park. Speakers include Nick Robando US DISTRICT 5, Joe Monbeck OHIO 84, Don Holtvoigt COUNTY COMMISSIONER, Bob Maurer, and others. Signs, buttons, and stickers will be available. Masks are mandatory. Social distancing is encouraged. Chairs are welcome.

Crowd at Fall Homecoming Ceremony sees Senior, Claire Rutledge, crowned 2020 Fall Homecoming Queen

Parkway High School held their annual Fall Homecoming Ceremony on Friday, October 2, 2020, when they hosted the Minster Wildcats in football action. Senior, Claire Rutledge, was crowned 2020 Fall Homecoming Queen by last year's queen, McKenna Johnson. The court included left to right: Freshman Meg Henkle; Junior Gracyn Temple; Queen Claire Rutledge; Senior Sydney Waters; Senior Grace Etgen; and Sophomore Alyx Yoder. The theme of the game was camouflage in celebration of Military Appreciation Night. A big thank you goes to the school and community for their support!

Calvary Evangelical Church Re-opens

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

Parkway October 2020 Printable Combined Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Stained Glass Artist from North Carolina Donates Beautiful Art of the Log Cabin in Rockford to the Historical Society

A stained glass creation of Anthony Shane’s log cabin has been donated to the Shanes Crossing Historical Society by Bob
Blackwell.  The actual log cabin is located at Shanes Park in Rockford, Ohio

This is the 2nd stained glass art that has been donated to the historical society.  The first piece was raffled off to benefit
the Rockford Bicentennial and the Carey, Bill, and Benny Scholarship fund.


The local connection -

Bob met Carey Fosnaugh of Willshire in Vietnam in 1969.  Carey was killed in action in January of 1970 in the Central
Highlands of Vietnam.    Bob made a vow that when he came back from his service, he would look up Carey’s friends and
family in rural Ohio.    Bob met Carol (Miller) Fosnaugh and they eventually got married.

Bob and Carol currently reside in North Carolina, but return to the area frequently to visit family and friends.    Bob calls
this creation his “Covid Creation” as he began the piece when the virus shutdowns occurred in the early spring.

Bob has made several stained glass pieces in the North Carolina area where he and his wife live.   Sometimes you can
find his artwork for sale in his local area crafts shops.  All proceeds for the stained glass creations benefit the Carey, Bill,
and Benny Scholarship Fund.

Thank you Bob for this generous gift ! You have an amazing talent !