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January 18-24, 2020
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 15 years!
 

Rockford Carnegie Library News
by Sherry Shaffer

"As we begin a new year, the Rockford Carnegie Library Board of Trustees would like to thank the public for their support in renewing the library's operating levy.  The money is used for general expenses, including purchasing books and DVDs and providing programming to our guests.

If you haven't stopped in at the library lately, please consider doing so.  You're in for a surprise.  The vibrancy of the library is inviting to visitors, and we offer a large array of books, DVDs, and various other media materials.  We have a large bank of computers available for use by the public, and we offer the free use of mobile hotspots with an advance reservation needed for the hotspots.

Please check us out....we have adult book clubs and a variety of programming for our youth all through the year.  Come back to visit us and see what we can offer you.  And again, thank you for your positive vote in this past general election.  Your support is appreciated."

Rockford Carnegie Library Meetings Announced

The Rockford Carnegie Library Board of Trustees have announced  their monthly meetings will be held on the second Tuesday of each month at 4 p.m. in the library basement.  The meetings are open to the public.

The library website will indicate when a monthly meeting is cancelled.

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

Welcome to the Rockford Chamber of Commerce!

The Marketing Junkie, owned by Marie Miller, is a full-service marketing firm helping
businesses develop and maintain one consistent brand voice and
message.

The Marketing Junkie was founded to bring clarity to
businesses needing marketing help but unsure where to start.

The Marketing Junkie creates marketing plans, well-designed print and
digital materials that help strengthen relationships with customers -
creating brand champions. For those unfamiliar with marketing in
general - The Marketing Junkie is a problem solver, solution finder
and results creator. You can visit www.themarketingjunkie.com or
follow on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Reynolds and Reynolds Donates to Celina Combined Drive
The Reynolds and Reynolds Company and its employees recently donated $37,400 to the Celina Combined Services Appeal.  The funds will help support local programs and families.  The majority of the Reynolds and Reynolds employees contributed to the campaign with the final tally exceeding the company goal.  Celina Reynolds and Reynolds management offered an incentive to employees who participated in the drive.  We thank the employees for contributing to these charities and helping to make a difference in the community! 

The Celina Reynolds and Reynolds Company is a premier printer of automotive business forms for the new and used car markets.

Celina Reynolds and Reynolds employees: 

Back Row: Marie Weitzel, Sharon Heckler, Betsy Muhlenkamp, Lucy Rindler, Doug Schuck Front Row: Jody Keller, Derek Pease and John Hewitt

Men’s Prostate Cancer Group to Discuss Incontinence

Man to Man is a group to support men who have been diagnosed with or have been treated for prostate cancer or who would like more information about prostate cancer.  At the next meeting a presentation will be given on dealing with incontinence issues resulting from treatment for prostate cancer. The meeting will be held at 7:00PM on Tuesday, January 21st at the Joint Township District Memorial Hospital. The atmosphere is casual and all interested men are invited to attend.  For more information contact Dick Falkner, facilitator, at 419-629-9950 or mantoman@nktelco.net.

Rockford Bicentennial Events Listed
You are invited to be a special part of our 200th birthday celebration of our Rockford Community.  Rockford, originally founded as Shanesville in 1820, is the oldest village in Mercer County, Ohio.   Rockford was the first town in the county to have a power plant, street lights and an airport.  It is located in the rich agricultural area of west central Ohio.

Our village is celebrating two hundred years in 2020 and our committee is working diligently to put together an impressive and beautiful celebration. One of our many goals during the bicentennial is to display a historical mural. Talented artist and historian, Dan Keyes, has designed a mural to depict the values and history of our cherished community. Along with the historical mural, there will be a Veteran’s Memorial dedication, Garden Walk, Barn Quilt Trails, Grand Parade,  Old Time Baseball Games, and a Mosaic Mural designed by Parkway Students, just to name a few.

However, none of this can be done without your generosity and support by helping us promote our events that will positively impact the Rockford Community for generations to come.

Please click here for the Rockford Ohio 2020 Bicentennial Schedule of Events in printable format

Please contact Mike Schumm - Bicentennial Coordinator at mdschumm@roadrunner.com or 419-305-4664 for any questions.

Pilot Volunteer Driving Program Launched

Michelle Caserta-Bixler, Mobility Manager at Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley, has announced a pilot program to expand transportation options in a six-county region.  Funding has been secured from the Ohio Department of Transportation for the six-month pilot program.   Other partners in the endeavor include Area Agency on Aging 3 and Logan County RTC Services. 

The Volunteer Driving Program is focused on transporting individuals to medical and non-medical appointments and to employment.  Priority will be given to older adults and individuals with disabilities as well as low-income populations who do not have access to other options.  The program will allow access for individuals who need transportation outside of traditional transit hours and cannot afford the high cost of private providers. 

The pilot will run in Auglaize, Logan, Mercer, Shelby, Darke and Champaign Counties.  One of the goals is to eliminate gaps in transportation that exist because of the lack of cross-county and region-to-region transport. 

The initial phase of implementation is the recruitment and training of approximately ten volunteer drivers.  The volunteer drivers will provide curb-to-curb transportation for passengers who need rides to medical and non-medical destinations.  Drivers will use their personal vehicles to transport within their county and adjoining counties.  Drivers will be expected to safely operate their vehicles according to State of Ohio driving laws and fill out reporting forms.

Drivers will be thoroughly trained and vetted (background check required).  They must hold valid Ohio driver’s licenses with no more than three points accrued.  They must be able to read maps and follow directions. Training will include eight hours of ODOT Drive training, CPR and First Aid, VIRTUS (Child Protection) training, and Defensive Driving training. 

Each driver accepted into the program will be encouraged to volunteer for at least two and no more than eight round-trip assignments per month.   Although the position is volunteer, there will be some compensation to account for gas allowances, insurance costs, and vehicle depreciation.

Anyone who is interested in becoming a volunteer driver should contact Michelle Caserta-Bixler at Catholic Social Services, 937-575-7115 or email mcaserta@cssmv-sidney.org. 

Van Wert Civic Theatre Opens New Show

By Mary Ann Falk

The next production at the Van Wert Civic Theatre, The Savannah Sipping Society, opens on Thursday, January 23 for an eight-performance run over two weekends.  The play written by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope, and Jamie Wooten centers around four women, who after meeting by chance at a hot yoga studio, plan to meet for drinks.  They soon form a strong bond around the desire to regain the enthusiasm for life which they once had.  Such a show, requires four strong actors willing to be vulnerable during the show while fully committed to trusting each other.  Mary Ann Falk, director of the show, says, “I have been blessed with four women who are literally forming relationships with each other as they work to bring the relationships of the characters to life.  The audiences of this show are in for a real treat.  You will be laughing one moment and dabbing your eyes the next.” 

Portraying the women in this laugh-a-minute comedy are Nicolle Merkel as Randa, a recently fired architect with financial woes; Terry Plas as Dot, a widow who misses the retirement life she never had with her husband; Amy McConn as Marlafaye, a nurse turned liquor distributor after a nasty divorce; and Jan Miller as Jinx, a beauty consultant with designs on being a life coach. A special appearance is made by Stephanie Wagner as Cordelia Covington.

The intimate performance space of VWCT located at 118 South Race in Van Wert, works particularly well for this production.  Those who attend the show may feel like they are sitting on a veranda in Savannah.  What could be a better experience during these cold winter days?  The Savannah Sipping Society runs January 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31, and February 1 and 2.  Shows are at 8 p.m. Thursday - Saturday and at 2 p.m. on Sundays.  Tickets go on sale Monday, January 20.  Call 419-238-9689 from 2 - 6 p.m. Monday - Friday, or go to vwct.org to buy tickets online.   All tickets are $16 and must be paid for at the time of the reservation.   

Anyone buying a ticket for opening night, January 23, is invited to a wine and cheese reception beginning at 7:15 p.m. in the lower lobby.  The reception is hosted by the ladies of the Savannah Sipping Society and the VWCT Board of Directors.

Bridge Inspection

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart announced recently that the yearly bridge inspections of Mercer County’s 379 bridges on township and county roads have been completed.  Engineer Wiechart and County Bridge Supervisor T. J. Smalley completed the inspections before the end of 2019.

Wiechart said, “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.

 
January 7-17, 2020
 

Parkway Music Parents to Work in Concession Stand on January 17, 2020 - Homecoming Game

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Friday, January 17 for the New Bremen Homecoming Game.  Please arrive by 5:30.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345 or Cara Bollenbacher at 419-733-9033.  Thank you for your help!

Friday, January 17

Seth and Jodi Zimmerman
Tim Heindel
Brad and Justine High
Rob and Staci Kraner
Dave and Sara Stearns
Chad and Lindsey Hamrick
Dave and Patti Hipply

Rockford Village Mayor Performs Swearing-in Ceremony
Takes Renewed Oath of Office Herself (shown left)
 

Dr. Norman Means selected from 3 applicants to fill 4 year term of resigned member
 

See more details in the Village Council Minutes below

Click here to read Rockford Village Council minutes January 7, 2020 by Fiscal Agent Lisa Kuhn 

Community Announcements and events:

Dog Tags available for purchase at the Village Office until January 31st.

Mr. Harrison Frech’s -  Book about Anthony Shane – Revised 2020 edition

                                    Can be purchased at the Village Office.  $10

Tuesday – January 14th -   Brush pick up

Saturday – January 18th – Mexican Fiesta – Rockford Community Building

                        4 – 7 pm – Tickets $8 on sale at Village Office

                        Proceeds to Rockford Community Days – Bicentennial Events

Monday – January 20th – Village office closed – Martin Luther King Jr. day

Saturday – January 25th @ Noon – Chamber Ribbon Cutting for Second Crossing Brew Co.   – Main St

Saturday – January 25th – possible Chamber Ribbon Cutting for Betsey’s Bouquets – Main St.

February – Mike Schumm – presents Rockford Early Settlement

Greg Pontsler returns as Councilman

Keith Grote becomes newest part-time police officer.

Dr. Norman Means - appointed to fill a four year term as Rockford Councilman. Swearing-in will take place at next council meeting.

Join in at the Rockford Mexican Fiesta

January 18th, 2020 at the Rockford Community Building.

4 - 7 pm    --- $8 per person

Tickets available at Rockford Village Office, Amy Joseph or
any Community Days member.

See attached flyer for menu


Benefits - Rockford Bicentennial Celebration :)

Click Here for printable menu of the yummy food to be served!

Happy 2020!

By Lisa Kuhn

On behalf of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce, we extend a warm official welcome to Aaron Temple as the new Rockford Village Administrator. The Chamber looks forward to partnering with Aaron in future projects and endeavors. We wish you, and the village much success.


* Photo Aaron Temple and Rockford Chamber President - Marie Miller of The Marketing Junkie

Local Historian, Author and Teacher Publishes Revised Title

Mr. Harrison Frech recently released a Revised 2020 Edition of Anthony Shane, Metis Interpreter:
A Bridge between Two Cultures Scout, Interpreter, Town Founder, Witness to History.

Copies of the book are on sale at the Rockford Village Hall.   Cost $10.

Fun Facts:  
Rockford Ohio’s Rich Village History
•1820 – Rockford was originally founded as Shanesville by Anthony Shane, a French Ottawa Indian.
•1820 – Plotted as Shanesville. Shanesville was the original county seat of Mercer County.
•On April 29, 1828, a lease was signed by Colonel William Botts Hedges and John Chapman (Johnny Appleseed) for the planting of apple trees on the Hedges’ property in Shanesville, Ohio.
•1866 – Became Shanes Crossing
•1890 – U.S. Post office changed the name to Rockford
•Rockford is the oldest village in Mercer County
•Rockford was the first village in Mercer County to have streetlights and an airport.

Did you know that the first post office in Shanesville (now Rockford) was opened on October 4, 1823? It was called Shanes Crossing until 1890 when the Post Office changed the village name to Rockford. Shanesville was founded in 1820, and it was rumored that prior to the post office opening, mail was taken to the home of Anthony Shane (founder of Shanesville) for distribution.

Did you know that in the History of Van Wert and Mercer Counties (Sutton - 1882) it is stated that the early Shanesville trading post lists some very important clients in 1821?  John B. Richardsville, a Miami chief is one who is noted.  Richardsville had a magnificent house built on Bluffton Road in Ft. Wayne with the help of the U.S. Government for his assistance in the resettlement of Native Americans. His house can still be found at the Bluffton Road location. A very wealthy individual, Richardsville had 1200 acre reservation that can be found about 1.5 miles north of Willshire on S.R. 49 where a plaque graces a large stone.  In addition, two very well-known Indian traders from Ft. Wayne named Samuel Hanna and James Barnett are on the list.  John P. Hedges, a native of Shanesville who became a prominent citizen in the Three Rivers City, was selected to be the first school teacher in the first schoolhouse in Ft. Wayne and his name is recorded as a patron in 1821.  Let’s not forget, Willshire, OH founder Captain James Riley, who was an avid trader. And, finally, Peter Peacott, a seven foot tall (?) Indian  made his appearance and his imposing figure is referenced as well.

 
January 4-6, 2020
 

Bicentennial Celebration hailed as success

The Rockford 200^th birthday party celebration was a fire-cracker of a success on New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2019 at the community building in Rockford. The kick-off event to the 2020 year-long birthday celebration, was attended by 335 attendees, according to Dr. Jerry and Mrs. Connie Sell, who helped organize the event.

Entertainment for the evening came out of Chicago, a group called Festivities that included entertainment by the World Famous “HOWL2GO” and featured live music by the Dueling Pianos and Drums. The two pianos and drummer, had the crowd singing along to popular pop tunes including Happy Birthday to Rockford! “The Band brought a Big City Show to our small village for an amazing night of music and dancing,” stated Twyla Hayes of Brand It Marketing. Twyla, with her husband Pete at her side, emceed the event.

Attendees enjoyed soft drinks as well as beer from Second Cross Brewing, a joint business venture by three men from Rockford: Luke Clouse; Luke Stephenson and Todd McKee, and a wide array of appetizers was catered by The Rockford Carry Out and Catering of Rockford by Tom and Matt Burtch.

The Fremont Canning Company unveiled their special BICENTENNIAL labeled run of 3000 bottles of Rockford Ketchup, a community favorite, and people stood in line to purchase. A drawing was held for a beautiful stained glass window of the Shanes Log Cabin, loving prepared by Bob Blackwell of North Carolina. The piece was later won by Tom Mosier. Proceeds on the raffle sale benefit the Carey , Bill and Benny Scholarship Fund. Mr. Blackwell served in Viet Nam with the late Carey Fosnaugh.

As midnight drew near, party-goers were encouraged to get their coats, step outside or enter their cars to watch the 20 minute fireworks display. It was a spectacular event with a special “200” display all its own as colorful fireballs lit up the sky, which the Barry Peel Family conducted to rock in the new decade. Members of the Bicentennial Committee Mike Schumm and Norm VanTilburg were excited about the turn-out.

They invite everyone to the upcoming activities of the year. February’s special event will be a presentation by Rockford Historical Society’s vice-president, Mike Schumm. Other items for the year include: a parade; a murl unveiling; a Johnny Appleseed Portrayal; beard growing contest; Old Fashioned Tea; Veteran’s Memorial Dedication; and so much more. Visit rockfordalive.org for all details.

Rockford Chamber Building New Community Calendar

Do you plan events and activities for your area group, business or organization? We'd love to hear from you.

There are several ways we can accomplish this together:

1. Add our page as a co-host to your event. This puts your event on our Facebook calendar and broadens your reach.

We will also add  to our community  calendar on our recently updated website
(Thanks,  Brand It Marketing  Communications!)  

2. Email lisa.kuhn@rockfordohio.org with event details, flyers, etc.

3. Drop off a flyer to the village office.

To see our Community calendar go to:  
https://rockfordalive.com/calendar

It is our goal as a community to use our website and social channels to share what events are available in our area. We look forward to working with you all to keep all of our information updated.

RG Communications Announces return of tower service for Celina/Mercer County

(Celina, OH) In the aftermath of the Memorial Day tornados the skyline of Celina was changed, and many local businesses suffered the loss of two-way radio service. The path of the tornado directly crossed the communications tower owned by R.G. Sound & Communications. The 500-foot tower which stood behind Chief Supermarket in the old city trash dump, was originally erected in 1973 to bring in television service for Celina residents. Ralph Godwin purchased the tower in the early 1980s and converted it to offer wide-area two-way radio coverage for businesses, farmers, and emergency use.

Today, RG Communications services the tower and radio equipment for R.G. Sound. “All of us are really excited to see the tower completed and get the radio equipment back on the air,” said Aaron Godwin president of RG Communications and Ralph’s grandson. “I remember going to the ‘shack’ to work on radio equipment with Ralph when I was a kid.” The Memorial Day tornado removed the top 200-feet of the tower. The remaining 300-feet then had to be dropped because climbers were unable to safely climb the structure to assess damages. The tower destruction affected a wide range of people from farmers to truckers in Mercer, Auglaize, Darke, Van Wert, Jay and other counties. Godwin continued, “Customers from the federal government to senior citizen transports have been affected by this and the outage has been difficult for everyone”. Upgrades were made to RG radio systems in Bryant Indiana and Lima Ohio to help cover the customers, these upgrades will work together with the new Celina tower to further increase customer coverage and capacity.

The two-way radio systems serviced by RG Comm have been put back on the air December 23rd, 210 days since the tornados. Entities that lease space on the tower will be back on the air over the next few weeks. Godwin says a few customers have chosen not to return to the tower with their own radio system and on their LTR and DMR scriber systems. “We are looking at this as an opportunity to service new customers and add new technology to expand wireless service to the community”.

Updates and photographs of the tower erection process as well as the destruction of the old tower will be available via the RG Communications Facebook page.

Keep Radon Out of Your Home

January is National Radon Action Month, when Ohio residents are urged to test their homes for radon. Soil in central Ohio can have high levels of radon gas. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, and it can seep into homes. To help protect residents, the Mercer County Health District offers qualifying homeowners free test kits. These easy-to-use home test kits are available at http://www.uchd.net/radon. Winter is the best time to test your home. During these colder months, homes are closed up, trapping gases inside and providing more accurate radon readings.

Radon gas results from the decay of naturally occurring uranium found in nearly all soils. Radon cannot be seen, smelled or tasted, making testing the only way to determine if it is in your home. Radon can leak into homes through cracks in foundations, openings around sump pumps and drains, construction joints and cracks in walls. It is estimated that nearly one home in every 15 in the U.S. has an elevated radon level. Elevated levels have been found in all areas of the country, including central Ohio. Radon is measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/L) and the EPA has identified 4 pCi/L as a recommended action level.

Mercer County has been designated as a zone one area on the EPA’s radon map. This means the EPA predicts that homes within our area could have high radon levels. Therefore, it is important all homeowners in our area test for radon gas. If your home registers high levels of radon, it can be removed from your home through a variety of mitigation systems. According to the EPA, mitigation systems can cost between $600 and $1,200. More information on radon mitigation can be found at www.epa.gov/radon by clicking on the “Publications and Resources link” and viewing the EPA publication Consumer’s Guide to Radon. To get a test kit, homeowners can log onto www.uchd.net/radon. After completing a short online form, for income eligible households, a free test kit will be mailed within a few weeks.

Radon test kits are easy to use. Place the small, non-obtrusive test kit in the lowest living level of the home for three to seven days. Then, seal the kit and mail it to the certified laboratory for analysis. Confidential results are available online a few days later or can be mailed to the homeowner within approximately two weeks.

For more information, please visit www.uchd.net/radon or www.epa.gov/radon.

Special Parkway Board Meetings by Sally Cox

A special meeting of the Parkway Local Board of Education has been called for Wednesday, January 8, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. in the District Office Conference Room.  The meeting will be a work session for board member training.  No business will be conducted.

Parkway School Board Agenda for Organizational Meeting
by Sally Cox for January 6, 2020

Parkway School Board Agenda for Regular Meeting
by Sally Cox for January 6, 2020

Parkway School Board Agenda for Work Session
by Sally Cox for January 8, 2020

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

Parkway Schools Calendar of Events by Lisa Miller
for January 2020 - Click here for a printable version

 
January 1-3, 2020
 

Parkway Music Parents to Work in Concession Stand on January 3, 2020

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Friday, January 3 for the Coldwater Game.  Please arrive by 5:30.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345 or Cara Bollenbacher at 419-733-9033.  Thank you for your help!

Friday, January 3

Stephen and Laura Yoder
Jennifer and David Barrett
Gary and Amanda Fox
Karla Prichard
Luke Stephenson
Angie and Ryan Berry
Christopher and Erin Cole
Tiffany Fishbaugh
Jeremy and Lisa Aller

The Bicentennial Committee meets every first Monday of the month to plan for the 2020 year-long celebration.
The muralist is now working in the Stephenson building on the fire station murals to be hung this year and Parkway students are working on their mural on the wall at the east end of Market Street.

If you are a historical member, please renew; if you are not, please join us!

Log cabin art won by local man

Tom Mosier of Rural Rockford is the winner of the Bicentennial Stained Glass Log Cabin artwork.  The raffle will benefit Bicentennial events and the Carey, Bill, and Benny Scholarship fund.   Thank you to Bob Blackwell for creating
this one of a kind piece of art.  
Please check back to our new / updated web site rockfordohio.org for Bicentennial Events throughout the year !   Happy New Year! Happy 200th Rockford!  

Retirees to meet

The Mercer County PERI will hold its first meeting of 2020 on Tuesday, January 14, 2020 at 10:00 AM at the Hopewell Grange Hall on the Mercer County Fairgrounds.  In July 2019, our country celebrated the 50th anniversary of Wapakoneta native Neil Armstrong becoming the first man to walk on the moon.  Our guest speaker, Jackie Knapke will share her personal connection with the Armstrong family when she was a teenager in Wapakoneta.

As always, donuts, coffee, & juice will be available to members arriving early at 9:30 AM.

Veterans Memorial Fundraiser sponsored by Burtch Family

by Lisa Kuhn
The Burtch Family takes these words to heart
 “Be kind to others and make a difference! “      

Recently the Burtch Family got together to make a true and lasting difference for the Village of Rockford.   They decided to sponsor a Veterans Memorial Fundraiser that was held last fall.   With their efforts and the community support - $25,000 has been raised.    THANK YOU – does not seem adequate.   On behalf of the Village of Rockford / The Rockford American Legion we are truly grateful for the difference this will make in our community.      

Thank you Burtch Family.

Photo: Burtch Family with representatives from the Rockford American Legion Post 508.

Genealogical Society to meet
The Mercer County Ohio Genealogical Society will meet Sunday, January 5th at 2 pm at the Richardson-Bretz Building, located at 119 West Fulton Street, Celina, OH.

The speaker will be Angie Getter, who is the Manager of the Preble County Room at the Preble County Library.  She will be sharing some stories about their collections and resources.

Light refreshments will be served.  The meeting is free and open to the public.

 
December 21-31, 2019
 

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates
including Christmas and New Year's

The Rockford United Methodist Church Members invite you to a free Christmas Dinner on Christmas Day, Wednesday, December 25, 2019 at the Rockford Community Building. Full meal. Homemade Desserts, too. Starts at 11 AM. It is their 15th year.

St. Paul's United Church of Christ Christmas Eve Service Planned
St. Paul's United Church of Christ, at the corner of Oregon and Wabash Roads west of Rockford, invites the community to their Christmas Eve Service on Tuesday, December 24, 2019 at 7 PM.

Rockford Belle Offering Communion on Christmas Eve
Join the Belle Community Church in Rockford from 6-8 PM on Christmas Eve, Tuesday December 24, 2019.
The church is located at 135 W. Market St in Rockford.

Village of Willshire Plans Luminary and other Christmas Displays on Christmas Eve
The entire town is decorated and can be viewing at your leisure.

Celina Insurance Group Christmas Light/Music Display
The Celina Insurance Group in downtown Celina has a beautiful display of Christmas lights every evening from 5:30 PM to 10 PM.
Simply drive up and tune your radio to 101.1 FM to hear the music as the lights perform to the songs. 15 minutes long.

Winter Solstice 2019 Happened on Saturday, December 21, 2019 - Winter began and the shortest day of the year.

Last Full Moon of the Decade Happened on December 12, 2019

Kerry Koontz Nominated for National LifeChanger of the Year Award
Kerry Koontz is a 30 year veteran teacher and counselor at Van Wert City Schools.

He was nominated for his service to the students of Van Wert City Schools, and helping them secure job training.

Winners will be named in the Spring of 2020.

Dog Licenses on Sale in Willshire
Go to J & R Merchandising, 200 Walcott St., for your dog tags for Van Wert County. All dogs 3 months and older need tags.

At a recent school board meeting in Rockford, Matt Triplett Athletic Director, explained that fans can now purchase an annual or monthly pass through NFHS Network to view games live. Go to nfhsnetwork.com to purchase your pass.

Parkway Schools Plan a Levy Income Tax Renewal bid for March 2020 Ballott

Parkway School Board members discussed and approved a resolution November 12, 2019, concerning the need to renew a five-year, 1% income tax that generates $1.175 million annually for the district. On December 10, 2019, the board approved a resolution to place it on the ballott.

Did you find the Barn Quilts located at Rockford Businesses that were featured a couple of
weeks ago ?

They were located at Henkle Insurance, The Rockford Library and Family Medicine Associates !

There are many more barn quilts to find ~~ each quilt is colorful and unique !  

The Rockford Area Development Corporation thanks each of those individuals and businesses
that have supported the barn quilt project.   The proceeds will help fund the New Year's eve
fireworks at Shanes Park to kick off the Rockford Bicentennial.    There will be a Barn Quilt
Tour in June.   For more information on Bicentennial events - please see our NEW web site
at rockfordohio.org

Our Old Bookcase, January 2, 2020, Van Wert County’s First Oil Well, followed by Oil Boom

=====

Photo caption:  Miller Oil Well, Van Wert County; does anyone know about this well and the people?

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

The first oil or gas well in Van Wert County, Ohio began with the organization of a company to drill for oil or gas, on March 19, 1885.  A derrick, 74 feet in height was constructed (at the intersection of South Market and East Crawford Streets).  On May 19, 1886, three or four men climbed upon the derrick platform.  The crowd watched as the men pour a thin, watery-looking liquid into short sections of tin-like containers resembling spouting.  Two men looked at the crowd and beckoned a young lady to come forward; she was assisted to the platform.  The men on the platform cried out, “Stand back, everybody.  This young lady is about the drop the “Go Devil!”  The steel left her hand, and assisted by companions they all leaped to the ground and made a wild dash for safety.

A quarter of a mile down, the piece of steel reached its mark and the belly of the earth seemed to turn over.  A faraway rumble grew to a roar as the ground vibrated like an earthquake.  “Here she comes,” someone shouted and the crowd surged backward.  Then the gas belched forth followed immediately by a column of black, oily liquid that spurted high above the derrick.  Men shouted, women shrieked when tiny drops caught by the wind and sprinkled over the crowd.  Dozens held out their hands to catch the falling drops and laughed or cursed their ruined clothing.  Some filled cans or bottles with the precious fluid later on when the column subsided back to the level of the platform.  Construction of a tank was quickly started the hold the contents of the Van Wert Oil Well Number One.  Van Wert was witnessing the beginning of its “Oil Boom.”  After the well was shot, it filled with several hundred feet of oil.  But, in a few weeks, salt-water claimed its own and the well which had promised the fulfillment of cherished dreams, slowly gave up the ghost and was abandoned.  This well was eventually plugged with 400 feet of lumber pounded into it, and this had a couple of loads of sand tamped down on top of the addition.  [In 1938, the site of the Number One Oil Well was underneath the rear of a dwelling.]

Boring was started on another well in Jennings Township by an outside company on December 27, 1886.  This well reached 1245 feet with about 200 feet of oil standing in the tube when it was shot on February 7, 1887.  Oil spurted 20 feet above the derrick for a few moments and then all was over.  On April 7, 1887, the citizens organized a second company with a capitalization of $40,000, divided into 400 shares of $100 each.  The location for well Number Two was selected on the Rose Farm, a short distance south of Dr. Krout’s residence on South Washington Street.  As time passed, more wells were drilled and most filled up, all except the one selected for the site of Number Two Well. Drilling started on the last day of April and on Sunday morning, May 22 the Trenton rock was reached at a depth of 1204 feet.  Drilling was continued until the oil bearing stratum had been penetrated 50 feet.  By that time there was 600 feet of oil standing in the tube.  The well was shot three days later, but the output did not need tanks or pipes.

By 1900, more wells were drilled in Liberty, York, Ridge, and parts of Willshire, Washington and Jennings, Townships.  From then on, the long delayed “oil boom,” was on its way.  By the late 1920’s, the Oil Boom was coming to an end in Van Wert County, and nearby counties.

The resource for this history was written by D.I. Terry, Van Wert Times Bulletin, October 17, 1938.  My hope is that the citizens recognize that local history is valuable beyond measure. 

I suggest that Elected Government Officials of State, County, Township, City and Village levels value Newspaper Editors, Librarians, Historical Society Members,, local Historians, School Teachers,  and  citizens who are inspired by the people who walked before us, creating and implementing the fine communities we have today.  Without our past being saved, who would we be?

 [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.]  

Don’t make the naughty list by driving distracted this holiday

Allen County – The holiday season brings increased traffic to Ohio’s roadways and additional distractions to motorists. Therefore, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio State Highway Patrol are reminding drivers to stay off the distracted driving naughty list by putting their cell phones down and keeping their focus on the roadway. Troopers will be stepping up enforcement through the holidays so be good for goodness sake!

Last year, 13,713 traffic crashes in Ohio were a result of distracted driving. As inclement weather increases, it is imperative motorists focus on the roadway to ensure they arrive safely to their destination. Sending or receiving a text message takes a driver’s eyes off the road for an average of 4.6 seconds, the equivalent of driving the length of an entire football field when traveling at 55 mph.

“The holiday season is the perfect time to eliminate distractions, such as cell phones, while you drive,” said Governor DeWine. “Protect yourself, your family, and others on the road by committing to safe driving habits.”

Over the last five years, between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day, there have been 1,171 crashes involving a distracted driver. These crashes have resulted in two deaths and 276 injuries. Last year, 47 fatal traffic crashes attributed to distracted driving caused 51 deaths on Ohio’s roads.

“Those numbers aren’t just statistics, they represent lives - parents, spouses, siblings, and friends,” said Colonel Richard S. Fambro, Patrol superintendent. “Distracted driving is unsafe and irresponsible, and in a split second, the consequences can be devastating for families.”

Distracted driving is any non-driving activity with the potential to distract a person from the primary task of driving and increase the risk of crashing. Distractions can be visual, taking eyes off of the road; manual, taking hands off the wheel; or cognitive, taking the mind off driving. Texting while driving is an example that results in all three types of distraction.

As a reminder, Ohio law bans all electronic wireless communication device usage for drivers under 18. Texting while driving is illegal for all drivers and is a secondary offense for adults 18 and above.

For a statistical map regarding distracted driving and a county-by-county map of distracted driving crashes, please visit: https://statepatrol.ohio.gov/doc/Distracted_Driving_HolidayUpdate_2019.pdf.

Warning Issued by Sheriff Jeff Grey

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today he is encouraging law enforcement officers and other individuals, including drug users, to use extreme caution. Recent lab testing of a substance believed to be heroin actually contained Tramadol, Cocaine, Heroin, Fentanyl, Carfentanil as well as Acetyl Fentanyl and other drugs (see below).

 These drugs are incredibly dangerous and can be fatal when ingested or when absorbed through the skin. Law Enforcement, Corrections Staff, EMS, FIre and Hospital staff are being warned to use extreme caution in dealing with any suspected drug or drug paraphernalia.

Tramadol is classified as a centrally-acting, oral analgesic (pain drug) that contains an opioid (narcotic)         

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is similar to morphine but is 50 to 100 times more potent

Carfentanil, a fentanyl analog with a potency approximately 10,000 times that of morphine, has been linked to a significant number of overdose deaths 

Acetyl fentanyl is a designer drug and fentanyl analog with a potency 40 times greater than heroin and 80 times greater than morphine.

Jeff Grey
Mercer County Sheriff

Business Enterprise Center at Wright State University-Lake Campus
Winter 2020 Limited Class Schedule

CELINA, OH – The following workshops are offered through the Lake Campus Business Enterprise Center. Registration for the following non-credit courses is currently underway at the Lake Campus. There are no prerequisite requirements. Seating is limited and participants must pre-register in order to attend. For registration information, please call Carol Jones at 419-586-0902 or email carol.jones@wright.edu.

CONTACT INFO: Must pre-register for each class. Call Carol Jones at 419-586-0902, or email Carol.jones@wright.edu.

“Starting Right” (Pre-Business Workshop Held Each Month!)

Each month the BEC hosts the Starting Right class for individuals planning to start a small business. This two-hour class gives you information to help you decide if business ownership is right for you and can assist you in starting your business the “Wright Way.” After attending the Starting Right class, you are entitled to free, individualized business counseling. We help with most issues pertaining to financials for your business—cash flow, pricing, supply costs, record-keeping, etc. We also assist with your Business Plan narrative as well as marketing and advertising, researching demographics, HR issues, etc.

            Seminar Dates: Thursday, January 16, February 20, & March 19, 2020; Time: 6-8 p.m.

            Room: 120 Trenary Hall; Wright State University-Lake Campus; Cost:  $35 p/business.

We recommend anyone considering starting or buying a business attend one of these sessions.

Excel For Business

Microsoft Excel is widely recognized as the best spreadsheet software application for businesses. In this series of classes, you will learn how to create a spreadsheet, input data, create charts and reports, and learn how to use Excel formulas for basic to complex computations. Join Carla as she delves into the world of references, tables, graphs, and functions! Special Pricing for Entire Course!! Certificates of completion will be printed for all participants completing the total 15-hour workshop (all sessions).

Instructor: Carla Hirschfeld; Cost: $75 p/person for each level~or~$200 p/person for all levels!

All sessions run from 5:30 to 8 pm; All sessions are held in 185 Dwyer Hall, WSU-Lake Campus

            Basic:             Wed/Thurs:  January 15 & 16, 2020

            Intermediate:             Wed/Thurs:  January 22 & 23, 2020

            Advanced:     Wed/Thurs:  January 29 & 30, 2020

**If campus is closed due to inclement weather, classes may be rescheduled without additional cost.

For more information about our classes & services OR to register for any classes, please call Carol @ 419-586-0902 or email carol.jones@wright.edu.

OUR OLD BOOK CASE, Dec. 26, 2019

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

Our Old Bookcase, Dec. 26, 2019, A Christmas morning earthquake at Los Angeles in 1899.

Photo Caption:  An earthquake hit the Los Angeles area on Christmas morning, in 1899, a week before the Parade of Roses at Pasadena on January 1, 1900.

 =====

This New Year, 2020, the Rose Bowl Parade will be celebrating its 131st Anniversary.   I first watched the Rose Bowl Parade on television January 1, 1953.  In fact, we watched the television that same month, to see Dwight D. Eisenhower sworn into office January 20, 1953.  Television brought the news of the world to us, as it happened.  Prior to that, we learned the news from radio and the newspapers. 

The railroads arrived in Mercer County in the 1880’s, and the newspapers arrived on the railroads.  Thus, the December 26, 1899 Los Angeles Times arrived via the Lake Erie and Western Railroad at Fort Recovery in 1899.  My Grandparents learned of the Christmas Day Earthquake in Southern California. 

My Grandparents  had relatives in California and were concerned about their safety at Hemet, California which is near Los Angeles, Anaheim and Pasadena. 

The December 26, 1899 “Los Angeles Times,” gave the following report of the earthquake on Christmas morning, 1899:

            “The sleeping populace was not literally shaken out of bed, but many nervous individuals stumbled out in great haste when the heaving began and scrambled for doors and stairways.  But aside from the early-rising record, nothing was smashed in Los Angeles.  From the interior, however, notable from San Jacinto, Hemet, and other points in the Riverside County come more serious reports.  From the Saboba Indian reservation, Riverside County, comes the report that six aborigines were killed and four fatally injured by the collapse of an adobe building in which they were holding a dance in honor of the natal day of the Savior of the world.”

On Christmas day, 1899, at Hemet, the hotel was damaged to the extent of $10,000, and Bingham’s Flour Mill, $2000.  The fire walls of Webber’s brick store fell out and the plate-glass windows were smashed, and the entire stock of goods was on the floor, in a heap.  There were but two chimneys left in town.   The newspaper devoted an entire paragraph to the severe damages at Hemet.

At Anaheim, the heaviest earthquake shock ever known at Anaheim occurred Christmas day, 1899, at 4:15 A.M.  It lasted a full twenty seconds and was violent from the beginning.  Lodging houses were emptied and in a few minutes some of the streets filled with shivering people scared from their beds.  The walls of a number of buildings were slightly cracked, but no serious damage was done.

What happened at Pasadena, where Pasadena’s Valley Hunt Club had first staged the Parade of Roses in 1890?  Clocks on the walls of Pasadena houses and stores stopped at 4:25 o’clock in the morning, on Christmas day, 1899.  The shock was quite long, but not violent and hardly any damage was reported.  In the west side of Hotel Green, the largest building in the city, a riveted steel structure, one closely-knit frame from one end to the other and from top to bottom, considerable creaking was heard, but not the least crack in the walls or ceilings was to be seen.  The plastering was not disturbed a hair’s breadth.  A crack opened in the ceiling of Odd Fellows’ Hall, and a few minor happenings like that were noted, but it was not much of a shake in the vicinity. 

The Tenth Annual Parade of Roses was held that week of the earthquake on January 1, 1900.  On New Year’s Day, January 1, 2020, the 131st Annual Parade of Roses will be held.  Once again, since 1953, I will be watching the Parade of Roses on television.  We all have to appreciate our freedoms here in our Country that we live in a Democracy and our Great Grandchildren will continue to watch the Parade of Roses at Pasadena, California on New Year’s Day.  However, they may be watching the Parade of Roses “on their lap tops,” or something dreamed up by inventors creating “Star Wars-type videos!”

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

 
December 18-20, 2019
 

Parkway January 2020 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Parkway Music Parents to Work in Concession Stand on December 21

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Saturday, December 21.  Please arrive by 5:30.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345 or Cara Bollenbacher at 419-733-9033.  Thank you for your help!

Saturday December 21

Ty and Cindy Suzuki
Eric and Amanda White
Eric and Amy Stephenson
Andy and Shannon Wagner
Amanda Severt
Lindsey Dull
Jamie Green

Community Fund Raiser for Charyl Luth

The Parkway Community is coordinating fundraisers for Charyl Luth who is in a fierce battle against cancer for the second time. Team Luth will receive 100% of all proceeds raised.

A Chicken Dinner will be held on Saturday, December 21 from 11am-4pm at New Horizons Church at 833 South Main Street, Rockford. Tickets are $10 and include a 1/2 BBQ Rockford Carry Out chicken dinner, chips, applesauce and water as well as an entry into the door prize drawings. 

A 50/50 Raffle with tickets for $1 each, 6-$5, 18-$10 will be available with the winner to be drawn during the Parkway boy's home basketball game that evening, Sat. Dec. 21.

The Parkway football parents are hosting a raffle for $20 each with entry to win a Parkway Steel Bench finely crafted and donated by Jason Kinney and Frank Gates. All tickets are available at the Rockford Carry Out and Peoples Bank in Rockford. 

Foundations Behavioral Health Services Training Offered

There is a local training for anyone who interacts with youth coming up called Youth Mental Health First Aid.  Youth MHFA that will be held at Foundations Behavioral Health Services on Tuesday, January 21 from 8 am-5 pm with an hour lunch break in between. Due to the generosity of the Tri-County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services Board serving Van Wert, Mercer, and Paulding Counties, the books will not cost participants anything, making the training FREE for those who attend! This information is very valuable and the training will be very interactive and informative! All those completing the training will receive a certificate stating they are Youth Mental Health First Aid Certified. Please contact robertad@foundationsbhs.org to register.

The Parkway High School Student Government would like to invite all students, community members, and alumni to the annual winter homecoming game. The underclassmen attendants for this year are freshman, Gabrielle Stober, sophomore, Raegan Roehm, and junior, Breanna Beeks. The senior queen candidates are Ansley Burtch, Alexis Cairns, and Olivia Rutledge. The homecoming basketball game will be held on January 17 with the JV game starting at 6 pm. The crowning of the queen will take place between the JV and Varsity games. There will be a beach themed dance for students Saturday night, January 18, starting at 8 pm and ending at 11 pm.  

L to R: Gabrielle Stober, Raegan Roehm, Olivia Rutledge, Alexis Cairns, Ansley Burtch, and Breanna Beeks.

 
December 17, 2019
 

Parkway Schools are now closed for Tuesday, December 17, 2019.

On Tuesday, December 17, 2019, Parkway Schools will be on a 2 hour delay
for snow and ice in the area.

Sheriff Jeff Grey issued a warning about slick roads with drifting snow
this morning as the next snowstorm passes through.

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

Winter Reminder

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.

 
December 16, 2019
 

Parkway Schools are now closed for Monday December 16, 2019.

On Monday December 16, 2019, Parkway Schools will be on a 2 hour delay
for snow and ice in the area.

Sheriff Jeff Grey issued a warning about slick roads
yesterday evening as the snowstorm hit.

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

Two inches for the second snow of the season - December 16, 2019

Sigler Family Makes Donation to Parkway Music Program Honoring the Late LuAnn Clay Sigler
On December 8, 2019, during the Parkway Music Department High School Band and Choir Christmas Concert, Angie Sigler Stephenson and J.R. Sigler donated $1,100 to the Parkway Music Program honoring their late mother LuAnn Clay Sigler. LuAnn passed away from cancer, and the family named the Parkway Music Boosters as donation recipients. Angie noted how much her mother loved being a member of the Parkway Band, a Band Booster Member and mother and grandmother of band members. Band Director Mr. Twigg and a representative of the Music Boosters accepted the donation with deep appreciation. The band and choir performed all of the Christmas favorites including a percussion ensemble and several solo performers!

WTLW TV-44 December 24 and 25 Christmas Choir Show to Air

26 area high school choirs took part in TV-44’s annual Holiday Music Festival studio production. Each choir performed 3 musical selections, which will air on WTLW TV-44 December 24 and 25, and online at wtlw.com.

In addition to singing Christmas songs in the TV-44 studio, the students also had an opportunity to give back to the community. $438 in cash was donated by the choirs, to be given to The Lima Rescue Mission, a non profit organization that has been helping poor and homeless men since 1906.   

Schools participating in the 2019 Holiday Music Festival are: Allen East, Arcadia, Arlington, Bath, Bluffton, Botkins, Columbus Grove,  Delphos Jefferson, Delphos St. John, Elida, Kalida, Liberty Benton, Leipsic, Lincolnview, New Bremen, Ottawa Glandorf,  Pandora-Gilboa, Perry, Shawnee, St. Marys, Spencerville, Temple Christian, Wapakoneta, Waynesfield-Goshen, Van Buren, and Van Wert. 

The 2019 Holiday Music Festival is a locally produced Christmas concert featuring Christmas music sung by area high school choirs. Air dates and times: December 24: 4pm, and 10pm.  December 25: 7am and 12 noon. Selections can also be viewed at wtlw.com.

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

 
December 12-15, 2019 
 

 
December 9-11, 2019
 

Parkway School Board Agenda for Regular Meeting
by Sally Cox for December 10, 2019

Barn Quilts
The Rockford Bicentennial Committee invites you to take notice of the
wooden barn quilts in the front windows of the businesses in downtown
Rockford.  
  
 See if you can find these barn quilts :)

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.

Traffic Complaints Regarding Tri-Star Students
by Jeff Grey

Mercer County Sheriff

Sheriff Jeff Grey is asking parents of Tri-Star students to speak to their children about safe driving habits.  Since the beginning of the school year the Sheriff’s Office has received numerous traffic complaints involving Tri-Star students.  The complaints received have been speeding, racing other vehicles, running stop signs, rolling through stop signs, and driver inattention.

 

The Sheriff’s Office has stepped up patrol; however, the complaints are coming from all over the county now that Tri-Star is centrally located.   The Sheriff’s Office and Tri Star Administration work closely together to curb bad driving habits.  Traffic citations results in students having to go to Juvenile Court, and also having their driving privileges suspended by Tri-Star.

The goal is for everyone to be safe on the roadways, and Sheriff Grey is asking parents of Tri-Star students to please speak to their children.

Fatal Accident in Mercer County

Sheriff Jeff Grey Reports his office is investigating a single vehicle fatal crash.  The crash was called in on 12-7-2019 at 4:56 AM.

A 2006 Toyota Tundra was north bound on Erastus Durbin Road south of State Route 119 and went off the west side of the roadway and rolled. The driver of the truck was ejected.  

Pronounced dead on the scene was 39 year old Travis Fullenkamp of Erastus Durbin Road rural Fort Recovery

Jeff Grey
Mercer County Sheriff

Vantage Adult Education Robert Brandt Scholarship Winner Announced

Taya Helm, Vantage Adult Education Practical Nursing program student, was awarded the Robert Brandt Scholarship, presented by Lisa McClure of the Paulding County Foundation.

The Robert Brandt Adult Education Scholarship was established in 2014 in memory of Bob Brandt, Vantage’s first superintendent. The $500.00 scholarship is awarded to Vantage high school graduates who are returning for career technical training, which will result in an industry certification, a program completion certificate, or a postsecondary degree through a partnering institution. Students must also show self-reliance, passion for goal, and initiative. Taya was a Vantage Health Technology student who graduated from Parkway High School, and was selected by Adult Education Director Kathleen Tyler after considering recommendations by a cross selection of adult education staff. Congratulations, Taya!

6th Annual Dancing with the Big Stars

M.A.V. Youth Mentoring on November 4th held the 6th Annual Dancing with the Big Stars. Eight couples competed for the Big Star Award and the Judges Choice Award at the Matinee and Evening performances.  The judges had a tough decision as all the performances were outstanding. The Judge’s Choice Award went to Bev Wilker and Jeff Schnippel dancing to “To Dream the Impossible Dream”. The Big Star Award went to Rick Heyne and Jill Fulmer for raising the most money. M.A.V. Youth Mentoring appreciates all the hard work and dedication from all of the dancers.  We also appreciate the support of our sponsors:  Preferred Insurance Center, Wilker Poultry Farms, Superior Credit Union, Mel Heitkamp & Sons Builders, LTD, Celina Eagles, Katterhenry Investment Group,  LCS INC, St. Johns Lutheran Church, Reynolds & Reynolds, Parker Hannifin, Grand Lake Health System, Post Printing, St. Marys Foundation, Setex, St. Henry Tile, St. Marys Foundry, VFW Post 5713;  Ryan Fullenkamp our MC; Mindy Dues our DJ; Jane Diller, Jen Thompson and Eric Wellman our judges: Greg Garman our photographer; Romer’s Catering and the Overdrive staff; The Mr. Shoppe; HB Salon; The Dance Centre; Kim Hohman Danceworks; and the Wagner Ballroom Dance Studio.  The success of this event has allowed us to expand and continue with our programs this year. The Board of Directors, Staff and over 400 youth, THANK YOU. Please save the date for next year.  It will be on November 7th.

 
December 4-8, 2019
 

Memorial Books Donated to Library for Late Members

Two members of the Mercer County University Women’s Club recently passed away. The club bought two books in their memory and placed them in the Mercer County Public Library collection with the help of Elizabeth Muether, director.

Jane Baucher Stachler was an elementary school teacher and loved to read funny books to the children. The book selected in her memory was The Wolf Who Fell Out of a Book (a fractured fairy tale) by Thierry Robberecht.

The other late member, Margaret Fuhrwerk, who was a UWC past president, spent her life in journalistic pursuits. The book chosen in her memory was Covering America: A Narrative History of a Nation’s Journalism by Christopher B. Daley.

The books are ready for check-out at the library.

Mendon Town Hall Christmas Coming

A walk into a wintry wonderland starts the holiday spirit at the entrance of the 21^st annual Mendon Christmas Festival of Trees. The event will be held on December 6^th and December 7^th at the historic Town Hall in downtown Mendon, Ohio.

Over 85 trees will be decorated by individuals, families, businesses and special interest groups for viewing. Both the inside and outside of the hall will be decorated in holiday finery.

He Town Hall was constructed in 1903 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It once housed the local jail, library, opera hall and theater.

Entry to the event is just $1 with refreshments included at the end of the tour. No charge for children 12 and under when accompanied by an adult. The Town Hall will be open from 6-9 PM on Friday, December 6^th and 1-5:30 on Saturday, December 7^th.

See Santa and Mrs. Claus on Saturday from 1:30 till 4:30 PM. See an Angel and the Nativity at the Mendon First Church of God. See the extravaganza at the Ole Farm Store on Friday and Saturday. Free horse carriage rides are from 1:30 till 5 PM on Saturday as well as a family craft day at the United Methodist Church.

Everyone is invited to come and enjoy the holiday spirit at the Mendon Festival of Trees.

Pedestrian Crash from Celina Police Department 12/04/2019 

This morning, at 7:08 AM, Celina Police were dispatched to a pedestrian crash on E. Wayne St. at Holly St. in the school zone.  The investigation concluded that a 13 year old boy was crossing E Wayne St from south to north at Holly St.  He crossed against a red traffic signal and was struck by a westbound 2013 Lincoln sedan driven by 32 year old Brandon Anderson of Celina.  Witnesses report that the vehicle had a green light.

The 13 year old boy received minor scrapes and scratches and refused treatment at the scene.  His mother picked him up.  There was no damage to the vehicle.  No citations have been issued.

Parkway Music Parents to Work in Concession Stand
on December 14^th and 17th

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Fridthe following dates.  Please arrive by 5:30.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345 or Cara Bollenbacher at 419-733-9033.  Thank you for your help!

 
December 1-3, 2019 
 

Parkway Music parent to Work in Concession Stand
Parkway versus Van Wert on December 6

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Friday, December 6.  Please arrive by 5:30.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345 or Cara Bollenbacher at 419-733-9033.  Thank you for your help!

Amanda Haver, Shane and Carla Barna, Tom and Shannon Heindel, Trish and Steve Bentz, Kevin LaBrun and Sara Wilson, Ryan and Kristine Louth, Tom and Julie Hileman, Matt and Tami Suzuki, and Mike and Jenny Langenkamp

Village of Rockford leaf pick up - last day THIS Friday December 6th.
After this date leaves will need to be bagged.
Thank you for your cooperation, says Lisa Kuhn, Village Clerk and Fiscal Officer

Workforce drug awareness seminar

Come to a fantastic informational seminar available on December 12th at Romer's Catering in Celina. Ohio Means Jobs and the Celina Mercer Chamber of Commerce are partnering to bring this seminar to businesses! All employers are welcomed. The event is at no cost to you and includes a free breakfast at 7:30 AM followed by Guest speaker, Regina Bond, at 8 AM. She has presented at State Chamber events sharing her training and knowledge in workforce drug awareness, and it's impact on our companies.

CEU Credits and Safety Council external credits are available as well.

Please join us and learn as much as you can to help your company as we battle this epidemic together. Ask yourself...what do you have to lose?

RSVP by calling 419-586-2219 or email info@celinamercer.com

You must register by Friday, December 6th! Don't delay!!

Patrol continues focus on impaired driving arrests

Lima – As part of the Patrol’s ongoing effort to make Ohio roadways safe, troopers continue to focus on impaired driving this month and throughout the holiday season.  

“Please don’t make a poor decision that could put your life and the lives of others at risk,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “You can make Ohio safer by actively influencing friends and family to act safely and responsibly behind the wheel.”

In 2018, there were 13,353 OVI-related crashes on Ohio roadways, killing 402 people and injuring 7,884 others. During that same period, troopers removed more than 26,600 impaired drivers from Ohio roadways. OVI-related crashes accounted for 37 percent of all fatal crashes in Ohio in 2018.

“We need motorists to commit to keeping our roads safe by planning ahead, designating a sober driver and insisting that everyone in the vehicle is buckled up,” said Lt. Tim Grigsby, Lima Post Commander.

Last year, troopers from the Lima Post removed 533 impaired drivers from our roadways.

The public is encouraged to call #677 to report reckless or impaired drivers, and drug activity.  

Search Warrant in Celina Yields Illegal Drugs

Overnight last night, December 1 – 2, 2019, Celina Police conducted an investigation into information they received and were able to obtain a warrant from Judge Kathryn W. Speelman to search the property at 808 Pro Dr., Apt #6.

The warrant was executed at 2:13 AM by Celina Police with the assistance of the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office.  When officers attempted contact the people inside would not answer the door.  Forced entry was made and three suspects were detained.  The search yielded an array of illegal drugs, including suspected heroin, meth, marijuana and psychedelic mushrooms. There was also an assortment of paraphernalia which included syringes and scales for weighing the drugs.  An undisclosed amount of cash was also seized.

The three suspects were arrested on felony possession charges pending further review by the Mercer County Prosecutor, Matthew K. Fox.  The three are 29 year old Steven Anthon Noggler, 25 year old Merissa Lynn Fetters and 46 year old Janice Marie Fetters and are being held at the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility on $100,000 bond subject to 10%.  All reside at 808 Pro Dr, #6, Celina.

The Celina Police Department would like to thank Judge Speelman, Prosecutor Fox and Sheriff Grey for all assistance from their offices.  We would also encourage citizens to contact the Celina Police Department when they witness any suspicious activity within the City of Celina.

Mailbox Repair Announcement

 

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.

Lakefield Airport Board Explains Meetings
The December 9, 2019 Lakefield Airport Authority Board Meeting has been cancelled unless otherwise notified.

The next regularly scheduled meeting is January 13, 2020 at 6:30 PM at the Lakefield Airport.   

OUR OLD BOOK CASE

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

Our Old Bookcase, Dec. 5, 2019, Prohibition Repealed

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Photo caption:  Whiskey Sandwiches were advertised in the local saloons, when the train came to the St. Henry Railroad Station, during Prohibition, between 1920 and 1933.

Prohibition was ratified via the 18th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution in 1918.  Prohibition was

repealed eighty-six years ago.  Ratification of the 21st Amendment of the U.S. Constitution repealing Prohibition was completed December 5, 1933.  Was it a coincidence that the Repeal of Prohibition took place “right before the Holidays?”

Some of the credit for Prohibition being implemented goes to the famous “Saloon Wrecker,” Carrie Nation.  Those of you who recall the name of Carrie Nation, know that she was known for entering saloons and  “smashing” liquor bottles, with her fellow “saloon smashing women friends.”  The February 5, 1901 “Columbus Evening Dispatch, stated, “Mrs. Carrie Nation, whose strenuous temperance methods have appalled the saloon men, sheriffs, legislature and governor of Kansas, has appointed herself a committee of one to visit New York City, and promises to do more than the committees of five, fifteen or seventy have done in making Gotham virtuous.”  Carrie Nation used the name of Gotham, in reference to New York City.  The author Washington Irvin, first used the name of “Gotham,”  in reference to an English folk tale, “The Wise Men of Gotham,” whereby citizens pretended to be fools so that King John would not visit their Village, because a visit from the King could bankrupt a town.  Irving used the name of Gotham for New York City in reference to foolishness, just as Carrie Nation used the name.

In 1908, newspapers claimed 16 Ohio counties had gone dry and 287 saloons were put out of business.  Mercer Countians were warned of the amount of money to be lost if the revenue from liquor sales was lost.  The collections for the year from St. Henry amounted to $2,500; the distributed Mercer County funds amounted to $1,075.01 to St. Henry.  A later advertisement called for sale of whiskey sandwiches to evade the law.  Prohibition dominated political election campaigns in the Twenties and Thirties.

In the United States of America, the Temperance Movement reached the United States Congress, during the early years of World War I.  The 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified in 1918.  It prohibited the manufacture, sale, or transportation of intoxicating liquors, but did not outlaw the actual consumption of alcohol.  Congress then passed the Volstead Act, which declared that liquor, wine, and beer as intoxicating liquors were prohibited.  Under the Eighteenth Amendment, prohibition was initiated January 17, 1920, a year after the Amendment was ratified.

The July 21, 1925 “News of the Nation,” referred to whiskey as “John Barleycorn,” and asked, “Prohibition:  Can Government Legislate behavior?”  That same newspaper, on November 13, 1929, increased reporting about prohibition, with a headline, “Liquor is big business run by criminal gangs!”  In Washington, on January 10, 1931, President Hoover’s National Commission on a Report on Prohibition reported that controlling the distribution of liquor had failed and the law could not be enforced.

On December 5, 1933, the 21st Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, providing for the repeal of the 18th Amendment (prohibition) was declared ratified.   The 18th Amendment is the only amendment to be repealed from the U.S. Constitution. 

Somewhere, along the line, I wonder if this Amendment was repealed because of economic reasons of the loss of liquor sales in saloons and restaurants and the loss of the taxes from the sale of liquor being returned to local communities.

Whatever the reason and however the local citizens celebrate the season, we have all been blessed with fine Communities here in Mid Western Ohio. 

[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.]

New Van Wert County Court of Common Pleas Magistrate Sworn-In

Christina L. Steffan was sworn in today as a magistrate in the Van Wert County Court of Common Pleas General Division and Juvenile/Probate Division.  She will be replacing Magistrate Joseph Quatman upon his retirement next month.  Ms. Steffan previously served as a magistrate in the Allen County Juvenile/Probate Court.    Group photo, from Left, Judge Martin Burchfield, General Division, Christina Steffan, Judge Kevin Taylor, Juvenile/Probate Division, and Joseph Quatman.  

 
November 25-30, 2019
 

HAPPY THANKSGIVING WEEKEND!

 
November 22-24, 2019 
 

Parkway Middle School Completes Food Drive
by Michelle Agler
Parkway Middle School Secretary

Mr. Scrooge Coming to Rockford

Rockford Carnegie Library is hosting the play Mr. Scrooge, performed by The Columbus Children's Theatre. There will be two, 60 minute performances in the auditorium at Parkway Local Schools, on Tuesday, December 3. Kindergarten-4th grade at 8:30 a.m. and 5th-8th grade at 10 a.m. The public is welcome to attend at no cost.  Rediscover the tale of Mr. Scrooge as he learns how to become “as good a friend, as good a master, and as good a man” on a night of unforgettable holiday adventures.

Wabash Telephone Company now has speeds up to 1 gig for your Internet.

Visit them at www.wabash.com or call 419-942-1111 for the details.

Above: Her Coaches; Seated: Parent Terra Henkle, Macy and Parent Stacy Henkle.

Parkway’s Macy Henkle signs her NLI with NCAA DIV II Lake Erie College.  Lake Erie made Macy a verbal offer last November as a Jr.  She is entering her 4th year as Varsity player for the panthers.  She received Scholar Athlete 3 yrs consecutively along with 1st Team all Conference as a pitcher, 2nd Team all district infielder, 2nd team as a freshman outfielder.  As a Junior Macy lead her teams offense also with batting avg. of .491.  Macy will enter Lake Erie College with 59 credit hours (equivalent to a sophomore or junior) toward her undergraduate degree as she plans to apply and pursue a graduate degree as a Physician Assistant. Henkle said a special thanks at her signing ceremony to all her coaches from t-ball to present and her future coaches at Lake Erie.  Her dear friends who have stuck by her even through her crazy travel ball schedule and her family for supporting her dream to play college softball.

 

Parkway Christmas Concerts Coming Up

Dec. 5 - Auditorium

2nd grade at 6:00 

4th grade at 6:45

Dec. 8th @3:00 Auditorium

High School Band, Choir and Percussion Ensemble

Band: A Cartoon Christmas, Christmas Festival and Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

Percussion Ensemble: Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24

Choir: Sleigh Ride, Carol of the Bells and The Hushing Carols

Dec. 9th @6:30 - Auditorium

7th and 8th grade bands and choirs

Dec. 12th - Auditorium

1st grade at 6:00

3rd grade at 6:45

Our Home Receives CPPS Heritage Mission Fund Grant

Our Home Family Resource Center is pleased to announce receipt of a grant from CPPS Heritage Mission Fund (CHM). These funds were awarded to Our Home’s Direct Services & Referral Program and represent validation of the program’s commitment to helping Mercer County families remain in their homes and put food on the table.

The Direct Services & Referral Program is specifically designed to help county residents with unmet financial needs that extend beyond personal resources, family support, and aid available through local agencies such as Job & Family Services, Council on Aging or Community Action.

“These unmet needs include medical costs and transportation not covered by Medicaid or insurance, emergency shelter, utility disconnects or evictions beyond other agency’s limits, and emergency home or auto repairs,” explained Deb Simon-Heinfeld, Our Home’s Marketing/Development Coordinator.

Assistance from the Direct Services & Referral Program is available to households with income up to 200% federal poverty level; approximately 2,130 Mercer County households meet this criteria (US Census, Community Survey).

Over the past year, program staff assisted thousands of people in need. They responded to over 1900 requests for assistance and distributed tens of thousands of dollars in financial support for folks facing eviction, utility shut-off, emergency home repairs, and unexpected medical costs.

“It’s our goal to provide people hope in the midst of crisis”, Simon-Heinfeld stated, “and this grant from Heritage Mission Fund lends valuable support to our efforts to walk compassionately alongside folks who are going through times of frustration, fear, and insecurity”.  

The CPPS Heritage Mission Fund was originated through the Sisters of the Precious Blood in Dayton, Ohio and aims to support programs designed for response to the unmet needs of others, especially the poor and marginalized and those excluded from the benefits of society. Learn more about CPPS Heritage Mission Fund at http://cppsheritagemissionfund.org/

 
November 20-21, 2019
 

 
November 15-19, 2019
 

Parkway Christmas Concert, Sunday, December 8th, 2019

The High School Band and Choir Christmas Concert is Sunday Dec. 8th at 3:00 in the Auditorium. Plan now to attend and hear all of your favorite Christmas tunes.

Butter Braid Fund Raiser 

The High School Choir is selling Butter Braids just in time for the Christmas Holiday Season!   The money will go for their trip to see the musical Footloose at La Comedia in the spring.  If interested, contact a high school choir member or Mrs. Baltzell baltzel@parkwayschools.org or call 419-363-3045 ext. 414.  Orders can be placed through Tuesday Nov. 19th and will be ready for pick up at our Christmas Concert on December 8th.  Thank you for your support! 

 
November 13-14, 2019 
 

Parkway Middle School Conferences Reminder

Parkway Middle School will be holding parent-teacher conferences on November 14th, 21st, and 25th for those that requested a conference. Conference times for all evenings will be from 4:30-8:00 p.m. Scheduled conference confirmation forms were sent home with all students who turned a request on Friday, November 8th.  If you would like to schedule a conference, there are few spots still available. Please call the office secretary, Michelle Agler, at 419.363.3045 ext. 740 to schedule or check on your scheduled time.

As a reminder to parents and students, due to conferences and Thanksgiving break, there is NO SCHOOL on November 27 through December 2.  School will resume on Tuesday, December 3, 2019.

Click Here for Parkway Winter Sports Schedules - All Teams by AD Matt Triplett

 
November 12, 2019 
 

Parkway Schools are now closed for Tuesday, November 12, 2019.

On Tuesday November 12, 2019, Parkway Schools will be on a 2 hour delay
for snow and ice in the area. Dismissal time remains the same.

Sheriff Jeff Grey issued a warning about slick roads
yesterday afternoon as the snowstorm hit.

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

Three inches for the first snowstorm of the season - November 11, 2019

 
November 8-11, 2019
Veterans Day
 

Daughters of the American Revolution Chapter Honor Veterans
by Linda Schumm, Regent

Members & Guests of the Isaac Van Wart Chapter of The Daughters of the American Revolution came together on Monday November 4, 2019 to Recognize, Honor & Thank 13 local Veterans for their service to our Country.  Mr. Richard Beach, Mr. David Leiendecker & Rev. Paul Miller were the 3 oldest veterans honored, all 3 of these men served our country during WWII....many of these veterans shared their stories & memories and the gathered crowd was truly humbled.  Meeting at Van Wert Manor, the group was also treated to a delicious meal by the staff there. It was delicious. Special red, white and blue cupcakes were later served by the DAR. As Veterans Day approaches, the Daughters of the American Revolution remembered their ancestors who served in that war and want to thank each & every veteran for their service to our Great Country ~ they are True American Heroes.

Sound advice from one of the veterans: "Be loyal to the American Flag and to each other!"

Above: Dick Beach, 95 years old, is the oldest Prisoner of War in Van Wert County and one of the 3 oldest Veterans in the County.
Dick was in the Army in WWII as were his father (a Captain) and brother (a lieutenant). Dick told the crowd that he was 19 when captured in the Ardennes Forest in France. His captivity with the Germans was 6 months long; he weighed 140 lbs at the start and was released at only 105 lbs. Dick said he enjoyed his trip on the Honor Flight to Washington DC several years ago.

Incumbent Mayor Amy Joseph won a third term in the Village of Rockford.

Parkway Board of Education will have two new members: Tal Bates, former tech coordinator for Parkway Schools and Tara Patterson, hairdresser from Rockford.

Rockford Carnegie Library Levy passed.

Parkway High School Honor Roll – 1^st Nine Weeks
by Lisa Miller
SENIORS

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

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

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Cory Agler, Tori Albright, Ansley Burtch, Ashlyn Cornett, Sidney Doner, Claire Eichler, Trinaty McDavid, Sophia Miller, Hailey Roberts, Kiersten Roehm, Gavin Stober, Corey Walls, Sydney Yoder

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Kevin Fonner, Ryann Fox, Emma Gause, Ryan Hesse, Caleb Kinney, Bryce Lowery

JUNIORS

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

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

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Avery Boroff, Treya Conn, Brendan Etzcorn, Graham Farmer, Zoie Huffman, Haydn Ridenour, McKayla Sites, Tyler Tinkham, Sydney Waters, Jordyn Williamson

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Brock Baltzell, Addison Barna, Breanna Beeks, Zachary Dicke, Grace Etgen, Justan Felver, Liam Ferroggiaro, Savanna Freeman, Sierra Freeman, Madalyn Heindel, Dylan Hughes, Kayla Kuhn, Claire Langenkamp, Brayton Luginbill, Makenna Schumm, Adam Stephenson

SOPHOMORES

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Kameryn Altenbach, Leah Eichler, Danielle Huff, Benjamin Sheppard

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Cora Barna, Grant Bollenbacher, Hunter Bruns, Lily Haver, Cami High, Jaden Hileman, Paige Jackson, Raegan Roehm, Jacob Rogers, Riley Samples, Gabriel Schaaf, Chantry Simon, Ashtyn Sipe, Caden Slusher, Mackenzie Stephenson, Blake Strickler, Montanna Vann, Briana Webb

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Aiden Anderson, Alex Anderson, Jace Armstrong, Bailey Berry, Camdyn Clay, Elise Darrigan, Jordan Feldes, Alexander Gile, Ashley Hague, Molly Hileman, Emily Jackson, Faith Jacobs, Dennis Leighner, Chasity McGhee, Parker Mihm, Avamarie Strunk, Gracyn Temple, Bryce Zimmerman, Jacob Zizelman

FRESHMEN

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Aaron Cron, Colin Fokine, Trenton Garwood, Carter Hellwarth, Jackson Kraner, Hutch Ridenour, Derek Smith, Brooke Stephenson, Gabrielle Stober

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Colby Bentz, Rielee Brister, Avery Cole, Brenden Cottman, Autumn Gilbreath, Madison Gile, Caden Heindel, Allison Heitkamp, Adrienne Joseph, Emiree Knittle, Roman Leszinske, Corban Rich, Alison Rowen, Emily Schaefer, Bryant Scudder, Nevaeh Seals, Emree Sinning, Bryce Stearns, Herminie Williams

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Abby Baltzell, Aaliyah Baxter, Karolann Burk, Gavin Dicke, Bryce Dorsten, Kyndle Dunning, Skyler Fokine, Taylor Gruss, Desiree Hague, Allison Hughes, Madison Jacobs, Christina Lane, Dakota Mullholand, Edin Nichols, Alivia Osborne, Deegan Rager, Symantha Rosenberger, Hailey Seals, Jason Stienecker and Jocie Waters

 
November 6-7, 2019
 

Bicentennial Committee Announces New Year’s Eve Celebration

Rockford, OHIO, November 4, 2019— The Bicentennial Committee recently announced that the Village of Rockford will celebrate its 200th Birthday with a Birthday Celebration on New Year’s Eve. This event will be held at the Rockford Community Building, 420 Holly Lane in Rockford, Ohio, on Tuesday, December 31, 2019. Doors will open at 7:30 pm with live music from 8:30 to 11:30 pm.

Festivities will include entertainment by the World Famous “HOWL2GO” and will feature live music by the Dueling Pianos and Drums. Attendees will enjoy drinks, a wide array of appetizers catered by The Rockford Carry Out and Catering of Rockford, and a show-stopping firework display at midnight to bring in the New Year.

“The Band will bring a Big City Show to our small village for an amazing night of music and dancing,” states Twyla Hayes of Brand It Marketing.

Ticket Sales begin Wednesday, November 6, 2019. Each ticket will be good for 2 drinks and unlimited appetizers. Tickets will be sold for $40 per person, $75 per couple, or $300 per table of eight. All are invited and encouraged to purchase tickets early, as seats are limited.

To learn more or purchase tickets, please contact Twyla Hayes, Mike Schumm or call Lisa Kuhn at Village Hall at 419-363-3032.

Two Bridges to Close - PUBLIC NOTICE

The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Watkins Road between St. Peter Road and SR 49 in Gibson Township for a culvert replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on November 12, 2019 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 4-6 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Township Line Road between Fox Road and Watkins Road in Gibson/Granville Township for a culvert replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on October 22, 2019 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 2-3 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

Public Employees Retirement Group to Meet
The Mercer County PERI will hold their next meeting on Tuesday, November 12, 2019 at 10:00 AM at the Hopewell Grange Hall on the Mercer County Fairgrounds.  In addition to regular agenda items, election of Vice-President and Treasurer for the 2020-2021 two year term will take place. 

In recognition of 2019 being the 50th anniversary of Neil Armstrong being the first man to walk on the moon, guest speaker will be Jackie Knapke.  Ms. Knapke will share the story of her connection with the Armstrong family when she was a teenager in Wapakoneta.

 
As always, donuts, coffee, & juice will be available to members arriving early at 9:30 AM.

Our Old Bookcase, Nov. 7, 2019, Karch Stone Co.; Truck fell through bridge floor

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OUR OLD BOOK CASE

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

Photo caption:  This one-of-a-kind, rare historic Post Card preceded John W. Karch Stone Co. in Mercer County.  This card will be on exhibit at the Post Card Exhibit at the Mercer County Historical Museum, Sunday, November 10, 2019, 1:00  4:00.

Who does not recall George Karch and the Karch Stone Quarry?  This rare post card photograph captured the image of the day that the Beaver Creek Crushing Plant, Jno. W. Karch, Pr. Truck, was too heavy and crashed through the wooden bridge floor.  Since Beaver Creek was identified on the side of the wagon, it is possible that the bridge was located on Beaver Creek, when it crossed Mud Pike, or St. Rt. 29, or Gause Road or Fleetfoot Road or Meyer Road, en route to Grand Lake.  Notice the bridge’s stone foundation.  Note the flat stones on the side of the bridge foundation; those stones may have been from limestone from the Stone Quarry.

Jno. W. Karch and his wife Sarah, with four children were listed in the 1916 Mercer County Directory.  The 1904 and 1909 County Directories listed the Karch families.  Karch Stone Quarry was listed west of Celina on St. Rt. 29, and south on Karch Rd, 1.5 mile, on the east side of Karch Road.  Today, this company is listed as Stoneco.

The 1978 “Mercer County History” book, lists The John W. Karch Stone Co., as dating back to 1880 when the family began the quarry business, on the present location on Karch Road.  The History of the John W. Karch Stone Co. is provided on pages 556-7.  George Karch wrote this history about the Stone Quarry, for this 1978 book, when I was serving as Director of the Mercer County Historical Museum, 1975-2004.

Joe Barga, 643 E. Wood Street, Versailles, OH read about the Post Card Exhibit, hosted by local Collectors at the Mercer County Historical Museum.  He donated this rare post card to the Mercer County Historical Society so that this card will also be on exhibit Sunday.

I invite Post Card Collectors and those who just happen to have a few old post card photographs of Mercer & Auglaize Counties, including post cards of Grand Lake, to bring their post cards to the Museum Sunday afternoon, and show their post cards to others.  Dale Poeppelman will return to share his Post Card Collection.  David Gray plans to show his Post Marks and Autographs of famous citizens. 

This is a note to the New Idea Collectors who have been calling me.  Yes, we still have copies of the latest book,  “New Idea Company’s Hay Tools, 1931-1999, Coldwater, Ohio,” to be available on Sunday.

The Post Card & Post Mark Exhibit will be held at the Mercer County Historical Museum, 130 East Market, a block east of the Mercer County Courthouse,  Celina, 1:00 – 4:00, Sunday, November 10, 2010.  The public is invited. 

[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.]

Two People Die in Deadly Crash at State Route 707 &, and State Route 49

North of Chattanooga
Sheriff Jeff Grey reports his office is investigating a double fatal crash that was reported on this date 11-1-2019 at 11:50 AM.  The Crash occurred at the intersection of State Route 707, and State Route 49.  The investigation revealed a 2014 Jeep was traveling west bound on State Route 707.  The Jeep failed to yield the right of way and entered the intersection of State Route 49.   The Jeep was struck by a 2001 Chevy 3500 truck that was traveling south bound on State Route 49.

Pronounced dead on the scene by Mercer County Coroner Doctor Timothy Heinrichs was the driver and passenger of the Jeep.  The Driver was 67 year old Malcolm Hughes from Springfield, Ohio.  His passenger was his wife Judy Hughes, age 65 same Springfield Ohio address.   The Driver of the Chevy truck was transported to Adams Memorial Hospital in Decatur Indiana with non-life threatening injuries.  He was 65 year old William Hamrick of 1288 Mercer-Van Wert County Line Road, Wilshire, Ohio.

The Sheriff’s Office was assisted on scene by the Rockford Fire Department, Chatt Fire Department.  Rescue Squads from Rockford and Celina, and MCERV. 

The crash remains under investigation. 

Mercer Health offers free lunch for veterans

In honor of Veterans Day, Mercer Health would like to show appreciation to those in our community who have served our country by offering a free lunch on Veterans Day. All local veterans are invited to The Cedar Table at Mercer County Community Hospital on Monday, November 11 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for a free lunch. Please bring military ID.

Join Stateline Writer’s Club
The Stateline Writer's Club will meet on Saturday, November 16, at 10 a.m. in the Celina public library.  The suggested composition topic is "coming together."   

  

The Lake Area Arts Group will meet Monday, November 11th at 6pm in the
Celina Publics Library. Artist presenter will be Sherry Chandler,
speaking about her miniature ceramics. Chandler honed her skills while
living in Ashville N.C. She uses a smaller potters wheel and small
sized kiln to make miniature vessels at her home studio and has
exhibited at the Artist in the Dome .
  
Also, artist Bob Hartfeld and Lillian Hartsfield will be sharing their
take home art projects from the October meeting.
  
All artist from the community are welcome to set up their art works at
the meeting.
  
The public is also invited to the Meet the Artist reception Friday,
November 15, from 6 - 8 p.m. in the Orchard Tree Restaurant, 501 Grand
Lake Rd.Celina. Guest artist will be Maion Local Art instructor Lisa
Brunswick featuring Scratchboard art works.

Parkway FFA Participates in Soil Judging

By Parkway FFA Reporter  Ansley Burtch 

The Parkway FFA chapter recently participated in the soil judging Career Development Event. Soil judging consists of students entering a pit of dug out soil and recording the characteristics. Soil judging also includes rural/agricultural judging and urban judging which are two separate contests. The Parkway FFA chapter participated in the Hardin Northern soils contest where Leah Harshman won the rural contest with team placing 7th and the urban team placing 3rd. Parkway teams also participated in the Mercer County soils contest where Justan Felver took first and was followed by Ansley Burtch taking second for the rural team. As for the urban team, Dylan Hughes placed in the top 10. Urban and rural teams both advanced to District 4 competition where Burtch placed second, earning their rural team second place overall. The urban team placed 3rd overall with Hughes as the highest scorer, he received 6th place. Both teams advanced to participate in the State Soils competition on Saturday, October 12th. Harshman received the highest score from Parkway which landed her 4th place at the state competition. The rural soils team placed 18th overall and urban brought in 24th.  

 
November 4-5, 2019
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 15 years!
 

Local Woman to Reach Milestone 100^th Birthday

By Sheila Baltzell-Linn 11-4-2019

Ruth Tabler Davis, a beautiful lady inside and out, formerly of St. Marys, OH and now residing at Maplewood Assisted Living, will be turning 100 years old on December 7^th. A recent interview with her was a delight. Here is her life story.

Ruth was born in 1919 in St. Marys, OH, one of 5 children to Bud and Margaret Tabler. Margaret was a teacher before she married and then ran her own family grocery store at Hendricks and Pear Streets in St. Marys. Her father ran his own barber shop close by and was a famous and popular man in town. Between the couple, they had many friends and participated in church and community activities during and after the Depression as they raised Ruth, her two brothers (Lawrence and Bernard), a sister Esther, affectionately called Codie (who became a nun), and suffered the loss of a daughter in infancy.

Ruth was encouraged to further her education, and she went on after graduating from Holy Rosary School and Memorial High School in 1937, to become a Registered Nurse at St. Rita’s School of Nursing in Lima, OH and worked there during WWII. She worked on the men’s and women’s separate floors, the pediatric floor and offices floor. Her beau at the time was Ken Davis of Celina who had gone off to war, serving in the Army. She wrote to him while in training, waiting for letters from him while he was a Staff Sergeant and radio technician in Panama. When the War was over and he came home, he asked her if she was ever going to marry him, and she said “yes”. They married immediately, honeymooned in Florida, and moved to Joplin, MO from May to August 1945 to fulfill his Army obligations; then they returned to life in St. Marys, OH. They built a home in 1957 where she remained until 2016 when she moved to Maplewood in Rockford. “Ken did a lot of the work on our house himself; I called him a putter-er who could do just about anything,” said Ruth. They enjoyed a wonderful life together full of family and friends, were active in the community, and socially played Bridge, Eucre and Poker. Sadly, Ken passed away 25 years ago just one year short of their 50^th wedding anniversary.           

After the wedding, Ruth went right back to work in nursing. Ken took over the family grocery store. He became a meat cutter and then later went to work at the St. Marys Post Office as a clerk, retiring from there after 20 years of service. Ruth continued to work the rest of her life until she retired at age 69. She only took off 3 years to raise their only daughter Kate Uhart, now of Florida. Not only did she work in hospital settings, she mainly worked for area doctors. Back then, there was no hospital in St. Marys. She worked for a doctor who delivered babies, and she assisted him earning $5 for her role. She remembers the doctor earned $35. One long-term employment was with Dr. Kile running his office in St. Marys for 22 years as well as Dr. Harbord in the 1970’s. There were no computers – records were all kept by hand. And insurance did not enter the picture until the early 70’s when she learned to file claims. She assisted with all kinds of cases, gave immunizations and other shots, and comforted patients, mainly walk-ins. They had evening hours, too. Patients would even call her in the night if the doctor was not available, and she would call for a police escort to the office so she could help a patient out.

She remembers her career fondly. While in nurse’s training, the students worked 12 hours a day, 7 days a week with ½ day off. Her college tuition was $300 for 3 years, but she worked hard everyday of it - for free - as they learned. Her childhood was a happy one helping her mother in the grocery store or visiting her father at the barber shop in their back yard. One day while walking home from elementary school, a boy named Charlie pushed her down and washed her face in the snow. She remembers her dad was not happy at all.

Ruth fondly recalls having a Model-T Ford which her parents only took out on Sunday. The family got their first telephone when she was in grade school and it was a party line where people could listen to your phone conversations simply by lifting their receiver. In the early 50’s, she and Ken bought their first television, and her dad loved watching wrestling. He soon bought one of his own. The first refrigerator came during grade school days and made a big difference from the ice box days. Ruth never learned to operate a computer, but she was a voracious reader. She is a lifelong Ohio State Fan, keeping up with their sports. She belongs to many organizations many of which the members will be celebrating  at her 100^th birthday party at the Eagles Club in St. Marys on November 30, 2019. Ruth’s lifetime social and church clubs and organizations include: Holy Rosary Legion of Mary; St. Rita’s Alumni; Soroptimist Club (Ladies Rotary), Beta Sigma Phi; and a very fun Birthday Club in St. Marys. Included in the party plans are local niece Connie and her husband Dr. Jerry Sell. Connie’s mother the late Romola (Molly) Beougher was a sister to Ken Davis. So the entire Beougher clan will be in attendance. Her granddaughter, grandson-in-law and great-grandchildren from Missouri and Ruth’s neighborhood friends from St. Marys will be there as well.

A big birthday celebration, earlier this month in Lima, was hosted by Ruth's late brother Lawrence (De-De) Tabler's Family who came from all over the United States. "With 5 nieces and nephews, their children and grandchildren in attendance, the party was a big one with plenty of food and a cake," said Ruth, and also mentioned how much fun she had seeing everyone.

Ruth mentioned that she had traveled to all edges of the United States and Hawaii. Special memories include riding on the Goodyear Blimp when it came to St. Marys as well as when she and Ken were invited to attend a posh cocktail party on the  yacht of the Boeing Aircraft Company owners with the Captain of the boat and a friend in California. Kate and Ruth had pictures of some of these events and even their beloved dogs Brownie and Nanny and a cat called Muffin.

Kate (at left with her mom) remembers her parents and their careers, and how their guidance made her a strong woman in a line of strong women. Kate attended Holy Rosary, too, then graduated from Marys High School and later college pursuing a career in management. She lunched daily with Grandma in the grocery store, became a Girl Scout, enjoyed fishing trips and yearly vacations with her parents. Kate’s daughter, Cori, is currently a school nurse after spending 25 years in cardiology. Following a career in medicine after her Grandma Ruth, she later signed-up and became a lieutenant commander in the Navy Reserves – all in nursing. Ruth truly raised her own strong women. 

When asked about advice to the readers of this piece, Ruth remembers this quote from her mother, Margaret, “Never put a wishbone in a daughter’s back where there should be a backbone.”

Happy 100^th Birthday, Ruth!

Cards and well-wishes can be mailed to Maplewood of Shanes Village, 10701 St. Rt. 118, Rockford, OH  45882

Remember to Vote on November 5 for Mayor of Rockford
Margaret Gehle and incumbent Amy Joseph are both candidates for the Mayor of Rockford.

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

 
November 1-3, 2019
 

Rockford Lions Make Donation and Prepare for Fish Fry on 11-2-19

Members of the Rockford American Legion Post 508 receive a $1000 donation from the Rockford Lions Club for the Veterans Memorial project at Hedges Park in Rockford.   Dedication of the Memorial is slated for Memorial Day, May 25, 2020.  Pictured left to right are Terry Joseph, Lowell Warthman, Lion President Denny Hecht, Reed Shaffer, and Terry McMillen.

The mission of Lions Club International is to empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace and promote international understanding through Lions clubs.

The Rockford Lions are making final preparations for the 14th annual Lions Club Fish Fry on Saturday, November 2, 2019 at the Rockford Community Building in Shanes Park from 4:30- 7 p.m.  

A LIMITED number of tickets will be available at the door.   Proceeds from the Annual Fish Fry benefit the Parkway Schools Eighth Grade Class trip to Washington D.C. each Spring.

The Rockford Lions Club meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of the month at the Rockford Carry Out, 156 S. Main Street.  

Come to the Fish Fry – Help Students Attend Washington DC Trip

Rockford Lions are making final preparations for the 14th Annual Lions Fish Fry at the Rockford Community Building in Shanes Park on Saturday evening, November 2nd, 2019 from 4:30 to 7 pm.  Proceeds from the annual event support the Parkway Schools Eighth Grade Class Trip to Washington D.C. each spring.  Fish Fry Tickets are $7.00 each and are available now from members of the current Parkway Eighth Grade Class, or by calling Lion Dennis Hecht at 419-852-9818. 

Rockford Lions are also preparing for two Lions sponsored events introduced earlier this year; a Quarter Auction on Saturday, March 28th, 2020 to be held at the Rockford Community Building and sponsorship of the 26th Annual Rockford Car Show and Cruise-In on Friday, June 19th, 2020 on West Market Street in Rockford.  Both events received tremendous community support in 2019.

Proceeds from Rockford Lions Club projects like the annual Fish Fry fund scholarships & help fulfill local community needs & requests.    The October meetings of the Rockford Lions Club will be Monday, October 14th and 28th at 6:30 p.m. at the Rockford Carry Out, 156 S. Main Street.

Captions for attached pictures: 

Middle School Principal Brian Woods receiving a check for the proceeds of the 2018 Fish Fry from members of the Mendon, Willshire, and Rockford Lions Clubs.

Members of a previous Parkway eighth grade class and Lions supporters assisting with the serving of fish dinners at the Rockford Community Building.   Carry Outs are also available.  

The Rockford Bicentennial Committee will be meeting on
Monday - November 4th at 7 pm at the Village Hall and Museum.
All are welcome !

THANK YOU Expressed

Rockford Eagles makes generous donation to the Veterans Memorial at the fundraiser event that was held on October 5th. Eagles - your support is greatly appreciated!

From left: Brad Baltzell, Blair Shaffer, Bruce Bollenbacher, Dick Shaffer, Terry McMillen, Reed Shaffer, Lowell Warthman, Steve Thompson, Terry Joseph.

Annual Chili Supper will be held on Friday, November 8, 2019
  
Join St Teresa Catholic Church from 4:30-7:30pm.
  
The public is invited to Rockford Community Bldg, 420 North Holly Lane, Rockford, Ohio
  
The menu includes: A variety of chili soups, chicken noodle soup,
sloppy joes and creamed chicken, hot dogs, chili dogs, applesauce,
veggies and desserts
  
Dine in, Carry out
  
Free will donation will be accepted.
  
Raffle Drawing will be held to benefit the Religious Education Program
of St Teresa Parish.
  
Sponsored by St Teresa Catholic Church 4227 State Route 707, Rockford,
Ohio

 
October 30-31, 2019
 

Remember!
November 3, 2019 - Daylight Saving Time Ends

When local daylight time is about to reach
Sunday, November 3, 2019, 2:00:00 am clocks are turned backward 1 hour to
Sunday, November 3, 2019, 1:00:00 am local standard time instead.

Sunrise and sunset will be about 1 hour earlier on Nov 3, 2019 than the day before. There will be more light in the morning.

Also called Fall Back and Winter Time.

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

Did you know that in 1896, Rockford had:  6 physicians; 2 dentists; 2 attorneys; 4 barbers; 4 grocery stores; 4 churches; 3 dry goods stores; 2 hotels; 2 banks; 2 clothing stores; 2 drug stores; 2 blacksmith shops; 2 livery stables; 2 millinery stores; 2 grain elevators; 2 farm implement stores;  a jewelry store; a boot and shoe store; a flour mill; a tile mill; a brickyard; a hoop factory; a lumberyard; a furniture and undertaking business; a buggy store; a school; and, a newspaper?

Rockford Residents Notice on Recycling Changes

Mahargs Trash Service will be discontinuing the recycle program in the Rockford Village after November 28th, 2019.
The Village encourages people to use the Parkway Recycle program the 3rd Saturday of each month.

Shop and Dine in Rockford to Benefit Bicentennial
The Rockford Bicentennial Committee is sponsoring a Shop and Dine event on
Sunday - November 17th from 11 am - 2 pm at the
Rockford Community Building.

Bring your appetite and do some Christmas Shopping !  

Serving Lasagna, garlic bread, green beans, salad bar, cookies and
drink.   Tickets $8 for adults - Children 10 and under $5.

Tickets on sale now at Henkle Insurance and the Rockford Village Hall.

Carryout available !

Classic Country & Bluegrass Jam in Rockford
*Free Public Event
  
  
Sunday - November 10th
2 - 5 pm
  
Rockford Community Building
420 N Holly Lane
Rockford, OH  45882
  
Presented by Jerry Bolenbaugh  

Vantage Cup & Saucer Restaurant Thanksgiving Luncheons Slated

If you’re looking for a place to grab a quick, delicious lunch with a colleague or friend, consider the Cup & Saucer Restaurant at Vantage Career Center.

The Cup and Saucer Restaurant is the career tech lab for students enrolled in the two-year Culinary Arts program. Culinary Arts students gain first-hand experience in the full-service kitchen by creating unique menus and preparing delicious meals, while operating the restaurant. The Cup and Saucer is open to the public, with reservations, for lunch on Tuesdays and Thursdays each week, seating guests from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.

They invite you to one of the biggest events at the restaurant, the annual Thanksgiving Lunch Buffet. It will be held two days this year – Tuesday, November 12 and Thursday, November 14 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. The Cup and Saucer’s buffet will include a delicious variety of salads, meats, vegetables, breads and desserts, all for just $8.95 + tax. Reservations are necessary, and go quickly, so be sure to call 419-238-5411 ext. 2425 to reserve your spot now.

Rockford Carnegie Library Renewal Levy on the November 5th Ballot

By Shelley Muhlenkamp, Director 

History

• The original levy replaced a 33% funding cut to the Public Library Fund by the State of Ohio in 2008.

• The levy, passed in 2010 and renewed in 2014 was originally collected at 1 mil but now due to increased property values tax payers only pay .5 mil for the same levy.

Cost

• NO NEW MONEY
• The renewal levy is projected to raise $73,000 per year.
• The projected annual budget for the Rockford Carnegie Library in 2019 was $220,000

Information

• The Rockford Carnegie Library includes the Parkway Local School District
• The library is administered by a seven-member Board of Library Trustees. The library board is made up of citizens representing the library district.

2018 Statistics

• Library circulation has increased for the second year in a row, up nearly five percent in 2018

• 29,808 items were checked out.

• Our 7 public computers were used over 3,500 times.

• 3,091 items were downloaded through our eBook collection.

• 66 programs were held by the library, with over 1,848 patrons in attendance.

• The online catalog has access to materials from over 238 library locations, statewide.

Upcoming Library Activities in Rockford

Please join us for a Halloween Family Program at the Rockford Carnegie Library on Thursday, October 31 from 6:30-7:30. You're welcome to wear your Halloween costume however it is optional.  We’ll have a Halloween themed craft, story, game and snack.

Don't forget about Book Club on Monday, November 4 at 2 or 6:30. The book being discussed is "Sanctuary" by Beverly Lewis. A reader's review, "I loved it. The story was captivating. Interesting. Heartbreaking. The author delved deep into the emotions of fear, betrayal, and the grace of God." This is a quick read so stop by the library to get a copy.

 
October 29, 2019
 

Plan now to hear the Parkway High School Band during their Fall Concert on Sunday, November 3, 2019 at 2 PM in the H.S. Gym.

Called Glow in the Dark, IT WILL FEATURE ALL THE BEST OF THEIR FALL MARCHING BAND MUSIC.

As an added treat, come between 11:30  AM - 1 PM and enjoy a delicious Spaghetti Dinner for $7 a ticket. It's a Music Program Fund Raiser.

Tickets are still available from band members.

The Athletic Booster Club is sponsoring a Fund-Raiser on November 23, 2019 at the Rockford Community Building. The doors open at 5 PM: the meal is 5:30-6:30; the Reverse Raffle begins at 6:30 and the Horse Racing begins at 7 PM. The Reverse Raffle is new this year with only 200 tickets on sale. There will be pull-tabs, Tip boards and Live Auction Items all evening. Betting is $2 a horse for the races and stables are $10. Buy your tickets at Barrys' Market, Henkle Insurance, Parkway Middle School Office, Willshire Legion and the Photo Star in Willshire. This a fun event you won't want to miss!

 
October 28, 2019
 

The Parkway Class of 1969 celebrated their 50th year reunion on Saturday, October 26, 2019 at CJ’s Highmarks Restaurant in Celina, OH at 6:00 p.m.

There were a total of 28 classmates present plus spouses:

Girls (15)                          Guys (13)

Carolyn (Sipe) Archer               Bob Berry

Judy (Frye) Avery                       Randy Bollenbacher

Anne (Thompson) Brown         Rich Cooper

Linda (Hinkle) Clay                  Ed Dudgeon

Cathie (Clay) Colson                Ron Gibson

Martha (White) David                Denny Hamrick

Linda (White) Donner                Mike Henkle

Susie (Berry) Eichorn               John Johnson

Rickie (Suman) Gamble               Keith Kettering

Ann (Arnold) Gibson                 Doug Strickler

Vendetta (Young) Gutshall           Mike Shrider

Linda (Beougher) Rutledge           Tom Reichard

Kathy (Bollenbacher) Taylor         Phil Winkler

Pam (Maurer) Young

Marcia Ripley

A good time was had by all.

Click on the two smaller thumbnails below to enlarge the women's and men's group shots.

 
October 25-27, 2019
 

On Saturday, October 19, 2019, a semi-tractor and trailer overturned while apparently attempting to turn onto U.S. Route 33 from SR 118/US 33 in Rockford. The Ohio State Highway Patrol, Rockford Police Department and Rockford Volunteer Fire Company were on the scene assisting until heavy equipment came for the removal.

Thank you to Dr. Norman Means of Rockford for sharing his pictures.

REMINDER – Panther Concession Stand Workers & Senior Night

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday, October 25, 2019

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Friday, October 25, 2019 for the game against Anna. This will be Senior Night!

Eric and Amy Stephenson; Dan and Sara Beeks; Bill and Julie Huff; Ryan and Lisa Sheppard; Jason and Deb Rollins; Steve and Teri Samples; Brandy Kroft; Chris and Kari Cron.

Please arrive by 5:45 PM.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345.  Thank you for your help!

21^st Century Club Meets – Hears Genealogy Presentation

The Twenty First Century Club met for the opening meeting of the year on October 22, 2019 at the Rockford United Methodist Church for a regular meeting. President Toni Fisher welcomed everyone and called the meeting to order.  Roll-Call was completed with everyone stating their favorite childhood candy. Frozen Zero bars and other treats at the local swimming pool; wax candy lips and soft drink bottles from Reish’s Five and Dime; Mars bars; orange slices and chocolate marshmallows from Barr’s Five and Dime; and Cin Cin licorice candy were a few mentioned. The treasurer’s report was given.

Minutes were read and approved. The  21st Century Club old-fashioned “tea” is scheduled for Sunday, May 3^rd, 2020, and the committees gave their reports.

“Our Story” the theme for the year was continued as Sheila Baltzell-Linn presented her own family genealogy. Sheila mentioned first her Bollenbacher history on her late father’s side (Duane Wood) whose mother was a Bollenbacher. Her grandmother married a Wood. It proved an interesting local family that went back to one ancestor who was a Revolutionary War Soldier (James Wood) in Massachusetts and earlier lineage (ten generations) that place her ancestor on the Mayflower Voyage in 1620. He was Dr. Samuel Fuller and a signer of the Mayflower Compact. These details were researched by her sister Colleen, who later became a registered member of the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution) and the Mayflower Society. Sheila shared that she has also applied to these organizations. Sheila mentioned that the Mayflower Pilgrims were British citizens and religious Separatists living in Holland who left England after being persecuted. Then as Holland became more hostile, they traveled to America to settle. The 400^th Anniversary of the Mayflower landing is being celebrated in 2020. Sheila and her family visited the Plimouth Plantation Settlement and Plymouth Rock on vacation this past summer. Hostesses Kara Ransbottom and Karen Nuttle served delicious pumpkin pie and iced gingerbread cake to the members.

The next meeting will be on Tuesday, November 19, 2019. Contact Sheila Baltzell-Linn if you are interested in attending a meeting.

Scottish Homeland Speaker at Genealogical Society

The Mercer County Ohio Genealogical Society will meet Sunday, November 3rd at 2:00 pm at the Richardson-Bretz Building, 119 West Fulton St. Celina, OH.  Speaker and member, Karla Bruce Hamblin. My family’s story: Taken from my Scottish Homeland-Never to Return. Light refreshments served.

Reception Planned for Retiree at NPAC
(Van Wert, OH) - The Van Wert Area Performing Arts Foundation announces the retirement of revered Box Office Director, Jerry Beard. Jerry has been with the organization since its inception and was the first official Volunteer at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center. Jerry has been a vital part of the dynamic growth of the performing arts in Van Wert through his exceptional quality of customer care. VWAPAF Board Chairman, Gary Taylor shares, "Jerry has not only been an accomplished professional as Box Office Manager, but he has also been an inspiring friend. He always has a smile on his face and leaves people better than he found them. Jerry will be missed by the Board and all of our patrons."

Jerry plans to retire at the end of the year on December 31 and looks forward to spending quality time with his family and friends.

An open reception of recognition for Jerry Beard will be held in the Van Wert Federal Grand Lobby of the Niswonger Performing Arts Center on Sunday, December 15 from 4:30 - 6:30 P, prior to the Midtown Men Christmas concert. This will be a grand night of musical celebration that pays honor to a Box Office Director who has made great impact.

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

Our Old Bookcase, October 31, 2019, Mercelina Park & Local Lake History

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

Photo caption:  Mercelina Park Hotel, credit to Dale Poeppelman Collection.  This post card will be on exhibit with other Lake History post cards at the Sunday, November 10, 2019 Post Card exhibit at the County Museum. 

The Harley Jones Amphitheater was honored at the historic Mercelina Park in October 2019.

This site was first recognized as the land of the “First Annual Fair” by the Mercer County Agricultural Society in 1868.  In 1872, the Agricultural Society purchased 17 acres of land, “by the Reservoir, Lake Mercer,” (an early name of Grand Lake).  The perimeter of the land included Buckeye Street, Fayette Street, and the Reservoir.  In 1893, the Agricultural Society purchased land on West Market Street, Celina and moved the County Fair to that site in 1894, which is part of the local Fair Grounds today.  At that time, the original land by the Lake became “Celina Park.”  In 1896, the former Grandstand burned, which included the Ferris Wheel and twenty some boats.  That was the last trace of buildings from the old Fair ground.  The Mercelina Hotel was constructed after the fire.

During June 1886, the first oil well was drilled in Celina, followed by St. Mary’s first well being drilled in July 1886.  In 1891, a world-wide event occurred when the “First Off-Shore Oil Well was drilled on Grand Lake.”  Celebrations for these events were held at Mercelina Park.  Celina Park was used for several public events.  In 1895, the 71st OVI (Ohio Volunteer Infantry) of the Civil War held its Annual Reunion at this Mercelina Park.  Between 1905 and 1914, the Celina-Mercer County Chautauqua was held at Mercelina Park. 

When was Mercelina Hotel constructed at Mercelina Park? The old Celina Directories, dated 1904, 1909, and 1916, carried lists of Hotels, but did not list Mercelina Hotel.  Mercelina Hotel with its Dining room to the east side of the building, with a note, “Open During Summer,” was diagramed and listed in the 1926 Celina Ohio Insurance Map by Sanborn Map Co., Chicago, IL.  About 1941, the Celina Commercial Club published “Grand Lake Celina, Ohio.”   This 1941 publication carried the advertisement:  “Mercelina Hotel and Park, Modern Summer Cottages for Rent, Chicken and Fish Dinners, Open All Year, phone # 1575, Carl Brandts’ Mgr., Celina.”  The Mercelina Hotel was listed as Mercelina Hotel with E.H. Brandts, as Manager, in the 1953 Celina Directory.  Mrs. Jeanette T. Shaw was listed as Manager in the 1957 Celina Directory.  The Mercelina Hotel was listed through the 1960 Celina Directory.  This Hotel was not listed in the 1966 Celina Directory.

Today, Mercelina Park continues to be active, and has gained recognition for families and sports.  From 1868 thru 2019 – A Century and a Half – this historic ground known as Mercelina Park, will now greet guests at this Harley Jones Amphitheater.

I do want to correct a myth that follows the history of this reservoir:

The Reservoir was NOT “dug.”  The site of the lake was established between two Glacial  Moraines, running parallel east and west.  At each end, the west bank and east bank, were filled in between the moraines, and the lake was filled with water.  This body of water was used as a reservoir for the Miami and Erie Canal, which ran north and south between Lake Erie (near Toledo) and the Ohio River, (near Cincinnati). The entire Miami and Erie Canal between Lake Erie and the Ohio River was open for traffic, by 1845.  Shorter distances of this Canal were opened earlier, as they were ready for traffic on the water.   The Reservoirs for this Canal were located at the high point of Ohio between Lake Erie and the Ohio River, so that gravity could direct the flow of the water in the Canal, either north to Lake Erie or South to the Ohio River.   Post Card views of Grand Lake will be on exhibit at the November 10 Exhibit. 

The Post Card & Post Mark Exhibit will be held at the Mercer County Historical Museum, 130 East Market, Celina, 1:00 – 4:00, Sunday, November 10, 2010.  The public is invited.

[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.]

Thank You Notice for Donation

Richard L Smith representing Fort Recovery Legion Post 345 and Fort Recovery VFW Post 6515 for the recent donation to the Rockford Veterans Memorial.  We appreciate our neighbors helping us !

Also in the photo members of the Rockford America Legion - Terry Joseph, Lowell Warthman, Alex Rowen,
Reed Shaffer, and Terry McMillen.

VETERANS AND MEMBER APPRECIATION CELEBRATION ON VETERANS DAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2019 AT ROCKFORD AMERICAN LEGION GLEN D. ECKHART POST 508.
  
FREE PIZZA AND REDUCED DRINK PRICES
  
ALL VETERANS, ALL CLUB MEMBERS, AND GUESTS ARE WELCOMED.
  
CANTEEN OPENING AT 3:30. PIZZA AT 5:00.

Van Wert County Agricultural Society Board Making Changes
The Van Wert County Agricultural Society will be voting on two constitutional changes at its annual meeting on 11/09/19. The changes were driven by two petitions that were duly signed and executed at least 14 days prior to the date of the annual meeting as required by the Society’s constitution. The changes are stated below.

Repealing Article XVII which reads: “There shall be no alcoholic beverages sold or permitted to be or otherwise dispensed on the premises of the Society during the time that the Van Wert County Fair is in operation. The provisions of this Article may be amended or revoked only by the express affirmative vote of at least seventy-five (75%) of the members of the Society.

 Rework Article XIX subset C to read: “Attend one regular or special board meeting prior to August 1st of that fiscal year in which the candidate is seeking election.” Making the requirement go from three meetings to one.

Only members of the Van Wert County Agricultural Society are permitted to vote on these issues. Members will need to present either their 2019 membership ticket or valid ID. Voting will commence at 9am in the hallway of the Extension office and will close at 11am on 11/09/19.

 
October 21-24, 2019
 

This event is an opportunity for the general public to walk through and view the facilities of the County Engineer, as well as to see engineer staff and the equipment they use in their mission to maintain and improve Mercer County’s roads and bridges.

Parking will be on the east side of the facility in the stone area, to be accessed from the eastern most drive, near the fueling system.

Ketcham-Ripley Pre-planning Seminar on October 24, 2019
Please RSVP by clicking "Sign Up" below, and join us for a FREE Advantages of Preplanning Seminar on Thursday, October 24, at 10 a.m. or 6 p.m. at Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home, Inc. (111 West First, Rockford, OH 45882).

Learn about the advantages of planning ahead, what to do when a loved one has died, veterans benefits, and more!

RSVP today to reserve your seat for one of these great events!

Deitsch and Sneddon Families to Unite

Steve and Holly Deitsch, Rockford announce the engagement and approaching marriage of their daughter , Tiffany Deitsch, to Andy Sneddon, son of Jeff and Deb Sneddon, Celina.

The bride-elect is a 2013 graduate of Parkway High School and a 2015 graduate of North West State Community College, with a medical assisting degree. She is currently working at a physicians' office through Mercer Health as a medical office assistant.

The prospective groom is a 2014 graduate of Celina High School and a 2016 graduate of the University of North Western Ohio majoring in automotive/diesel mechanics.  He is employed at Buds Chevrolet Buick as an automotive technician.

The couple is getting married on October 26, 2019 at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Celina. A reception is to follow at the Eagles in Celina.

Saturday – October 26th – Halloween - 5 pm – 6:30 pm. 
Judging at the Rockford Firehouse     at 7 pm 

Parkway Middle School Conferences

Parkway Middle School will be holding parent-teacher conferences on

November 14th, November 21st, and November 25th. Conference times for all evenings will be from 4:30-8:00 p.m. Conference scheduling forms were sent home with all students Friday, October 11th.  You may pick up extra forms in the Middle School office.

As a reminder to parents and students, due to conferences and Thanksgiving break, there is NO SCHOOL on November 27 through December 2.  School will resume on Tuesday, December 3, 2019.

Parkway Class of 1967 celebrates 52 years of Friendship

By: Classmate Loisann Yoh

Old memories only get better with age.  After 52 years, the school-days stories told by the classmates and teachers of the Parkway High School Class of 1967 were better than ever. Saturday evening, September 28, 2019, the 45 classmates and spouses, and teachers and spouses gathered for a delicious home cooked dinner prepared by Grange members at the Hopewell Grange Hall at the fairgrounds in Celina, Ohio. We reminisced, told stories, made beginning plans to participate in the Rockford Bicentennial Celebration in 2020, and celebrated Mr. VanTilburg's birthday. 

Honored guests in attendance were former high school teachers Jon Sidenbender, Norm VanTilburg with their wives, and Naomi Sipe Lehman, pictured above. An “Empty Chair” displaying the picture and obituary gave special honor to six classmates who have passed away since the 50th class reunion. The next planned class reunion will be Saturday, September 25, 2021.

Class Picture: 

Standing, left to right:  Doug Carr, Metta Stucky Hike, David Wilson, Tom Schumm, Larry Clouse, Duane Laux, Nancy Feasel Shaffer, Wade Marbaugh, Loisann Felver Yoh, Barb Huffman Schumm, Clinton Bennett, Jim Grier, Greg Schumm, Roberta Beeks LePage, Benito Rodriguez

Sitting, left to right:  Vickie Gause Bollenbacher, Diane Mihm Sheets, Sandy Miller Ulrey, Teresa Cochran Fulecki, Susan Cully Etzcorn, Linda Gehm Duff, Sandy Sipe Schwartz, Diane Kimmel Schumm, Myra Hoblet Susta

Dublin Township also has a 5 year renewal levy on the ballot for the General Election on November 5, 2019. The operating levy is for 0.5-mill.
 

 
October 15-20, 2019
 

 
October 9-14, 2019
 

Autumnfest Planned at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, 1522 Oregon Rd., Rockford, OH will be having their annual “AUTUMNFEST” on Sunday, October 13, 2019.

The evening begins with delicious homemade food at 4:30.  The menu includes Creamed Chicken, and Hot dogs.  They will also be serving chicken noodle soup and cheesy potato soup.  Pie and ice cream will also be included.

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

The proceeds from the evening will be used for: the Celina and Parkway Backpack Program; the Civic Foundation for disaster relief;  and for future projects for the Women’s Fellowship.

Everyone is invited to this event.

REMINDER – Panther Concession Stand Workers

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday, October 11, 2019

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Friday, October 11, 2019 for the game against New Bremen.

Scott and Shawna Garwood; Len and Kim Eller; Greg and Jessica Sheets; Chad and Brandi Bruns; Eric and Holly Strunk; Jeremy and Lisa Aller; and Kirk and Samatha Dull.

Please arrive by 5:45 PM.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345.  Thank you for your help!

 
October 7-8, 2019
 

Rockford Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year 2019 Named
Lisa Kuhn Celebrated on Monday, October 7, 2019
by Sheila Baltzell-Linn 10-7-2019

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce held their annual banquet on Monday evening, October 7, 2019. A lovely dinner was prepared by the Rockford Carry-out Catering. Mike Bruns and Kent Krogman provided musical entertainment enjoyed by all.

Lisa Kuhn (center) holds her plaque as family members and chamber president Marie Miller look on.

Twyla Hayes, Chamber Emcee, took the podium, welcoming guests. She introduced the evening’s speaker, Bruce Boguski, a motivational speaker from Findlay, OH. Bruce took the podium and spoke first about his auto accident as a teen that left him partially paralyzed. In learning to walk again, Bruce learned to let go of himself and let God take over. He asked the crowd to consider what holds you back?

He explained that through his college classes he learned that the Reticular Activating System, of the brain (the little voice in the back of the mind) produces 50,000 thoughts a day. But Bruce says it lies about your abilities. So we must live in the now and affirm ourselves daily by repeating pep talks like:  “I am always calm and confident under pressure.” Affirmations come back to you!

Marie Miller, president, then gave a Chamber Report. She mentioned all of the new businesses: Curvy Closet; Flower Power Catering; Laura Putman Photography; Luginbill Construction; Mercer Metal; 2^nd Crossing Brewery; S & B Photography and Stained Glass Paradise. 

She mentioned the Rockford Bicentennial Plans  are coming along great with a mural nearing compleion on the wall of the Fire Department. The 200th Birthday Celebration of Rockford coming in 2020 is keeping organizers busy as they plan many activities spread through out the year with the kick-off to be held on New Year’s Eve.

Twyla Hayes thanked Joel Henkle for completing the 2019 Leadership in Action Program through the Celina/Mercer Chamber.

“The experiences were great, and I learned so much”, said Joel.

Fremont Canning is Business of the Year
Then Twyla invited her husband Curtis Hayes to the podium and presented the Business of the Year Award to Fremont Canning Company

By Twyla Hayes

The Fremont Company History:

Rockford, Ohio Plant The Rockford Plant was established in 1924 by A.L. Sharp and was named Sharp Canning Company. Its main product was canned tomatoes, and ketchup was the by-product. In 1961 the Sharp family sold the company to The Fremont Company based in Fremont Ohio. The Fremont Company was established in 1905 as the Fremont Kraut Company by the Slessman family. Today, Chris Smith is the fourth generation owner and current president of the Company. Over the years, the plant focus changed to ketchup and BBQ sauce. The plant produces products for private labels and also Co-Packs for several National Labels. Today the plant exports product to 60 foreign countries. In 1999 an ice storm badly damaged the building. At that time the Company undertook the challenge of replacing all of the remaining older buildings while still maintaining production. This extensive project lasted three years and left the company with an efficient and modern production equipment and facility. In 2018 they started a major expansion project. The $27 million dollar project more than doubled the plant size and production capacity. The Rockford pant currently has 155 full time employees under Plant Manager, Ken Pond and Assistant Manager, Tyler Westgerdes. The Fremont Company is active in the community with donations from the employees and company. They have helped fund the Rockford Ministerial Association and the Parkway Schools lunch program for students in need. The Company also donates product to the Western Ohio Food Bank and other food banks in the area.

Citizen of the Year for 2019

Then the time came to name the winner of the Citizen of the Year for 2019, which went to Lisa Kuhn. Presenter was Steve Thompson, last year’s winner.

The presentation, carefully prepared by Stacie Ford was read and everyone stood to applaud and congratulate Lisa following an endearing look at her life.

Rockford Village Fiscal Agent Lisa Marie Kuhn Named Rockford Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year
by Stacie Ford 10-7-2019

Lisa Marie (Kloepper) Kuhn was born on March 23, 1967, to Sandra and David Kloepper. Lisa Kuhn was the eldest sibling to brother Darren and sister Karna.

As a girl she loved to read, play outdoors, and spend time with her family and friends.  She was kind hearted, responsible and well behaved, and took care of her siblings at a young age when her mother and father were at work.

She was baptized and confirmed at Peace Lutheran Church of Berne, Indiana and now is a faithful attendee at New Horizons Church in Rockford, Ohio.

Lisa attended South Adams High School where she marched with the Poms Flag Corps during the half-time shows and graduated in 1985. During her summers off from school, she worked cleaning houses and later was hired by Swiss Village. Later she worked at the Red Cross.

She went on to graduate from Ivy Tech, of Fort Wayne, Indiana and graduated with an Associates Degree in Secretarial Science which serves her well in her position as fiscal officer for the Village of Rockford.

Her diligence and studious nature paid off - she bought her first 2 bedroom home when she was 20 years old, just fresh out of college.

On July 12, 1996, she married her husband Michael, and they had three children: Cassie; Cody; and Kayla.

Currently, daughter Cassie is a fifth year Pharmacy student at the University of Findley, son Cody is a third year student at the University of Toledo majoring in Civil Engineering, and youngest daughter Kayla is a junior at Parkway High School.

While growing up, our recipient was blessed to have spent a lot of quality time with careful guidance by her grandparents - each taught her essential life lessons and skills, the importance of family, and how to pray. She would pass down these qualities to her own children.

Summers were spent at “the best darn lake in the world” -  the Kloepper’s Lake James Cottage, where many birthday celebrations have taken place and accompanied by July 4th fireworks displays in the middle of the lake; winter breaks were spent down in Florida with her grandparents - the Zimmermans. 

Lisa enjoys traveling and “going on an adventure” no matter if the time is spent outdoors cooking or sitting by the campfire, boating and hiking a trail, or indoors antiquing and visiting a museum; it is with this same vitality and outlook that our the winner of Rockford Chamber Citizen of the Year 2019 experiences and shares life.


Lisa was nominated due to her unrestrained commitment to the Parkway District. What a privilege it is to proclaim the name of our recipient during this very special time surrounding Rockford, Ohio’s Bicentennial year. It’s been noted that our recipient is more deserving of this honor than anyone in the community due to the support and friendship she shows others. Her involvement includes being the treasurer of several organizations- the Parkway Music Boosters, Shanes Crossing Historical Society, Rockford Chamber of Commerce, Rockford Community Days, Parkway Community Pastoral Board, and as the organizer of the Arts in the Park. It is because of her love of the Lord and caring heart that she has become an honorary member of the Sisters of Grace Bible Study group.  Always ready with a helping hand, humbly poised with a smile and words that command encouragement and support to others, she’s an indispensable fixture within the community and goes far beyond her job description as the Rockford Village Fiscal Officer, all for the betterment and promotion of Rockford and its people.

Congratulations Lisa Marie (Kloepper) Kuhn on becoming Citizen of the Year for 2019.

 
October 5-6, 2019
 

Patrol offers Pedestrian Safety Tips
(Lima) – People walk or run for various reasons. Whether it is exercise or out of necessity, safety should be a primary concern. That is why the Ohio State Highway Patrol is reminding both pedestrians and motorists that pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility. “Pedestrians and motorists each have an important role in safety,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “Through education and increased awareness, we can prevent tragedies before they occur.” Of all pedestrian-related crashes, 82 percent occurred in urban areas, while the remaining 18 percent happened in rural areas. Forty percent of fatal crashes involving a pedestrian occurred in rural areas. “The Patrol reminds both pedestrians and motorists that safety is everyone’s responsibility,” said Lt. Timothy Grigsby Post Commander.

“Follow pedestrian signs and signals, always be aware of your surroundings and watch for traffic to ensure you are seen.”

Pedestrians and motorists can follow these tips to increase pedestrian safety:  Walk on sidewalks whenever they are available. When no sidewalk is available, walk facing· traffic as far away from the edge of the roadway as possible.  Stay alert at all times, motorists and pedestrians should be prepared in case a hazardous· situation arises.  Do not be distracted by electronic devices that take your eyes and ears off the road.·  Pedestrians should wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at night.·  Pedestrians should cross where motorists expect them to, follow pedestrian signs and signals,· and never assume a driver can see you.  Motorists are required to yield to pedestrians in a marked crosswalk and in unmarked· crosswalks at intersections.  Motorists can use bright headlights when legally able to illuminate the roadway and possibly· spot a pedestrian walking near the roadway.  Motorists should slow down and drive cautiously in residential areas.· For a statistical map regarding pedestrian-involved crashes and a county-by-county breakdown of where these crashes have occurred, please visit: https://www.statepatrol.ohio.gov/doc/Pedestrian_Bulletin_2019.pdf

Parkway School Board Agenda for Regular Meeting
by Sally Cox for October 8, 2019

18^th Annual Harvest Festival in Rockford
The Leota Braun Charitable Foundation officers are planning the 18^th Annual Harvest Festival in Rockford on Sunday, October 20, 2019 at the Community Building in Shanes Park. Former NFL Football player Jordan Thompson will be the featured speaker as well as musical entertainment by the Parkway Musicians following a Social Time and a dinner.

Extradition completed
CELINA, OH – Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports that his office has completed an extradition of an inmate from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office in Nevada.

On September 30, 2019, two deputies from the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office flew out of Dayton International Airport and arrived at McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, Nevada.  Early the following morning, the deputies took custody of Matthew J. Millisor, 45 years of age.  Mr. Millisor was then flown back to Ohio where he was transported to the Mercer County Jail and booked in shortly before 9:00 p.m.

A warrant had been issued by the Mercer County Common Pleas Court on September 5, 2019 for a Probation Violation.  Mr. Millisor is on probation after having been convicted of Non-Support of Dependents.  He owes well over $15,000 in back child support on this case alone.  Mr. Millisor also has a new pending Indictment for Failure to Pay Child Support in Mercer County on another case.  There are also several other agencies in Ohio that have warrants entered for Mr. Millisor.

Mr. Millisor is being held in the Mercer County Jail, without bond, pending a hearing in the Mercer County Common Pleas Court.

21^st Century Club Begins the New Club Year - 95 Years in Existence

The Twenty First Century Club met for the opening meeting of the 95th year in existence on September 24, 2019 at the Rockford United Methodist Church for a lovely dinner featuring grilled pork loin and delicious sides prepared by Toni Fisher and Julie Henkle.  Warm pumpkin dessert and apple crisp finished up the meal. President Toni Fisher welcomed everyone and called the meeting to order.  Roll-Call was completed with everyone stating their special summer activities. Vacations were highlighted with bear sightings, tractor shows, beaches, ballgames, reunions, retreats, recuperation, and gardening mentioned.

The treasurer’s report was not available.

Minutes were read and approved. Twyla Hayes reviewed some of the Rockford Bicentennial updates including the mural being painted on the fire department wall, the Veteran’s Memorial dedication and fireworks for the New Year’s Eve 1^st Night Kick-off party. The  21st Century Club old-fashioned “tea” is scheduled for Sunday, May 3^rd, 2020. A Bicentennial Activity, the tea party will be held at the Community Building, tickets will be sold, and committees are formally meeting to make this event very special to the ladies attending.

The theme for the year “Our Story” was introduced by president Toni and vice president Julie Henkle. Our Story will feature the genealogy and history of the members who will present  their own families on upcoming club night. A time limit was set for the programming, and Toni suggested that members focus on one or two people or group of special interest. Toni presented the Bollenbacher history on her late father’s side (Harold Bollenbacher) and late mother’s side (Luella Friedly Bollenbacher). It proved an interesting local family that went back to the family immigrations to the colonies and one Colonel William Crawford, an ancestor of Toni’s was an Indian fighter during the French and Indian War. Toni’s genealogy was mainly researched by her sisters Deb Reichard and Peg Bollenbacher as well as Toni.

The next meeting will be on Tuesday, October 22, 2019. Kara Ransbottom and Karen Nuttle will hostess. Contact Sheila Baltzell-Linn if you are interested in attending a meeting. 419-733-3326.

Friend Day Slated at Liberty Baptist Church

(Van Wert) Liberty Baptist Church, 501 E. 3rd Street, Van Wert, Ohio is hosting Friend Day on Sunday, Oct. 13. The Homelighters Southern Gospel Quartet from Dayton, Ohio will be our featured singers during the 10:45 am Friend Day Service in the church's auditorium. A free Hog Roast all church dinner will be served after the morning services at approximately 12 noon. Sunday School classes are offered for all ages at 9:30 am.  A Bouncy Castle will be erected in the church's front lawn for the children to enjoy during and after the dinner.  Friend Day is designed for individuals and families in the area who are looking for a Gospel preaching church or who would enjoy visiting our church for just this one special service.  Pastor Jim Burns, and the entire Liberty Baptist congregation invites all to attend.  Please see Liberty Baptist Church's Facebook page for more details.

(Submitted by Pastor Jim C. Burns)

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

Neil Diamond Show more than tribute – Local choirs to perform
The Niswonger Performing Arts Center along with the ENRICH Series Presenting Sponsors, Unverferth Family Dentistry and Roger & Kay Okuley, are pleased to announce the addition of a second show for the vastly popular I AM, HE SAID Celebrate The Music Of Neil Diamond Concert on March 21, 2020 at 2:00 PM. The 7:30PM show is officially Sold Out. Both performances will feature Select Choirs from Coldwater High School, Directed by Cindy Wendel, Parkway High School, Directed by Leslie Baltzell, and Wayne Trace High School, Directed by Joni Wenning. Over fifty vocalists will provide back up choir vocals for five popular Neil Diamond hits and close out each show with special fanfare.

Presenters and audience members are raving about the show. "This show was a lot more than a tribute. Instead it was an authentic presentation of the Neil Diamond hit list with stories of the man and his compositions interspersed. Our audiences were on their feet from the start…..Nobody could do it better. One of the best shows we’ve had this year," states Bob Johnson of Paramount Theater in Saint Cloud, MN after selling out 4 shows.

"We are saying what HE said,” laughs Matt Vee referring to the one and only Neil Diamond.  Matt along with cousins Jeff and Tommy Vee, local music scene veterans and sons of the legendary Bobby Vee, join forces with their family and friends as The Killer Vees to celebrate the music from a timeless catalog.  With songs like "Cracklin' Rosie," "Song Sung Blue," and "Sweet Caroline,” Neil Diamond sold over 100 million records worldwide with music that became the soundtrack to one generation after another with hits spanning five decades.  As a Tin Pan Alley song writer in the mid 60s, he penned songs recorded by everyone from Elvis Presley to Deep Purple and, of course, the Monkee’s classic, “I’m A Believer.”

“This is not a tribute show,” says Tommy Vee.  “This is a celebration of an amazing musical icon, one we all love and respect. We have been fans since we were in grade school and first learning our respective instruments and played many of these tunes over the years in various bands.  We have recruited an incredible group of singers and players and have gone back to the original records,” he explains, “it is all about the vocals and Matt nails it. It’s a Rockin’ show!”

Supporting Sponsors of the ENRICH Community Concert Series at the Niswonger are Tisha Fast - StateFarm Insurance, Gary Taylor of Taylor Auto Sales, Inc., Van Wert Health, E&R Trailer, Putman Law Offices and First Financial Bank. The Niswonger Performing Arts Center is powered by the Van Wert County Foundation.

Tickets for the 2:00 PM show range from $25 to $45 and are now available by contacting the Box Office by phone, 419-238-6722, in person at 10700 SR 118 S. Van Wert, or online at NPACVW.ORG.

 
October 3-4, 2019
 

Parkway October 2019 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Parkway to Host Relay for Life

By Lily Hipply, student
Parkway High School would like to invite the community to a Relay for Life on Saturday,  October 12 at the football field. Relay For Life is a community-based fundraising event for the American Cancer Society and many other cancer related institutions, societies and associations. There will be face painting, games, a silent auction, booths from local small businesses, and music. The cancer survivor walk begins at 5:45 p.m., which will mark the beginning of the event. Come out and support the fight against cancer! There will be fun for all ages!

On Thursday October 3, 2019, Parkway Schools will be on a 2 hour delay
for fog in the area. Dismissal time remains the same.

The COSI on Wheels Presentation for 10-3-2019 has been cancelled
and will be re-scheduled at a later date.

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

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.

Autumnfest Planned at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, 1522 Oregon Rd., Rockford, OH will be having their annual “AUTUMNFEST” on Sunday, October 13, 2019.

The evening begins with delicious homemade food at 4:30.  The menu includes Creamed Chicken, and Hot dogs.  They will also be serving chicken noodle soup and cheesy potato soup.  Pie and ice cream will also be included.

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

The proceeds from the evening will be used for: the Celina and Parkway Backpack Program; the Civic Foundation for disaster relief;  and for future projects for the Women’s Fellowship.

Everyone is invited to this event.

Road Closure in Recovery/Granville Township
The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Township Line Road between Koenig Road and Lange Road in Recovery/Granville Township for a culvert replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on September 30, 2019 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.

 
September 28-30, 2019 - October 2, 2019
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 15 years!
 

Parkway Homecoming Game and Festivities Accomplished for Fall 2019
Thank you to Patrick Agler for sharing the Homecoming pictures!
Visit his site at www.pantherzden.com for game pictures and highlights.

A rain delay of 30 minutes at the Parkway - Minster Wildcats game did not dampen the joy and fun of the Fall Homecoming Activities  at Parkway on Friday, September 27, 2019 when McKenna Johnson was named the Homecoming Queen.  The attendants for this year to Queen McKenna were freshman Emiree Knittle, sophomore Molly Hileman, junior Alexandra Cottman, and seniors Ashlyn White and Grace Rogers.

Congratulations McKenna and Court!

Parkway Celebrates Homecoming

By Jessica Smalley  (SmalleJ@Parkwayschools.org)

The Parkway Panthers held their annual Fall Homecoming ceremony on Friday evening, September 27, 2019, when they hosted the Minster Wildcats in football action. Crowned Homecoming Queen for the evening was Senior McKenna Johnson. The court included: Freshman Emiree Knittle, Sophomore Molly Hileman, Junior Alexzandra Cottman, and Seniors McKenna Johnson, Ashlyn White, and Grace Rogers. McKenna was crowned by the 2018 Queen Kara Heck. The homecoming dance was held on Saturday evening, September 28. Thank you to everyone who made the events a success!

Captions:

Left to right: Emiree Knittle, Alexzandra Cottman, 2019 Queen McKenna Johnson, 2018 Queen Kara Heck, Grace Rogers, Ashlyn White, and Molly Hileman

2019 Queen McKenna Johnson

Homecoming Queen picture of McKenna Johnson by Jessica Smalley.

Homecoming Queen and Court by Jessica Smalley.

RIBBON CUTTING Held on Tama Road

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart announced recently that the Tama Road bridge and roadway approach reconstruction project was completed and the road re-opened to traffic.  The project involved nearly a half a mile of roadway reconstruction in northwest Liberty Township whereby the road was straightened.  The project also involved rehabilitating the existing bridge by replacing the superstructure and widening the abutments. 
The project was funded through the federal-state exchange LBR program at a cost of $828,979.57.  The LBR program funded 95% of the cost and local road and bridge funds supported the 5% balance.

A strong supporter of our local road infrastructure, 84th District State Representative Susan Manchester, joined County Commissioners and the Mercer County Engineer, as well as the contractor, Kyle VanTilburg (representing VTF Excavation LLC) in recognizing the successful completion of the infrastructure improvements.

Pictured in photo L-R.  Representing the contractor—VTF Excavation, LLC —Kyle VanTilburg and Jacob Waterman, Mercer County Commissioner Rick Muhlenkamp, Mercer County Commissioner Jerry Laffin, 84 District State Representative Susan Manchester, Mercer County Commissioner Greg Homan and Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart

 
September 23-27, 2019
 

Homecoming Festivities Planned at Parkway 9-27-2019

The Parkway student government would like to invite all community members and alumni to the annual fall homecoming festivities. This year’s homecoming game against the Minster Wildcats will be held on September 27th starting at 7:00pm. The homecoming festivities will be held before the game with a parade beginning at 6:15pm. The parade will start at the high school and travel down Pine Street to the football field. The attendants for this year are freshman Emiree Knittle, sophomore Molly Hileman, junior Alexandra Cottman, and seniors Ashlyn White, Grace Rogers, and McKenna Johnson. During the third quarter of the game, the Relay for Life committee will be hosting a bucket run. This is to help raise money for the Mini Relay for Life which will be held at the school for students grades nine through twelve on October 11th. They will also be holding a community event at the football field on October 12th from 5pm to 11pm. The committee asks that you please join this event to help raise money and support our local survivors. 

Front: Seniors: McKenna Johnson, Ashlyn White, and Grace Rogers

Back: Freshman: Freshman Emiree Knittle, Junior: Alexzandra Cottman, and Sophomore: Molly Hileman

REMINDER – Panther Concession Stand Workers

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday, September 27, 2019

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Friday, September 27, 2019 for the game against Minster.

Bryan and Karen Strickler; Charles and Brenda Smith; Don and Kim Trisel; Ty and Cindy Suzuki; Ryan and Ashley Clay; Adam and Shannon Carpenter; and Jason and Jennifer Fullenkamp.

Please arrive by 5:45 PM.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345.  Thank you for your help!

Parkway Choir to Present Two Concerts - Come Join the fun!

Oct 6 -  High School Choir 3 PM  - Panther Revue

Oct 7 – JH Choir 630 PM – Panther Revue 2

The Parkway Middle School choir students in grades 6,7 & 8 will be performing their first concert on Monday, October 7 at 6:30 in the Parkway High School Auditorium.  Students will be performing musical selections by Elton John, The Beatles and more!!

 
September 19-22, 2019
 

45th Anniversary of Girls Sports at Parkway Schools
Former Basketball Players Reunite for Weekend of Fun
 

1974-79 Parkway Girls JV and Varsity Team Members, coaches and support staff.
Front row l to r: Tami Pontius; Karla Sidenbender; Penny Leighner; Colleen Wood; Tammy Walls and Martha Sidenbender.
Second Row: Kathy King; Lisa Hays; Ruth Luginbill; Lisa Sealscott; Coaches Trude Laffin and Kathy Van Emans; MAC Secretary Jon Sidenbender.
Back row: Cindy Leighner; Lisa Schroyer; Nancy Leighner; Lori Sidenbender; Deb Stetler; Coach Linda Stelzer; Pam Lowry;
Susan Samples; Lori Hays; Debbie Hileman and Coach Gary Stelzer.

45th Anniversary of Parkway Girls’ Sports Celebrated by Former Players
by Sheila Baltzell-Linn 9-17-2019
Photos by Penny Leighner Fish and Sheila Wood Baltzell-Linn

Players and coaches from the first Parkway High School Girls basketball teams from 1974 to 1979 (pictured above) gathered on Saturday, September 14, 2019 for a reunion at the home of Jon and Martha Sidenbender in Rockford. At the reunion, many had not seen their former teammates and coaches since graduation day in the mid-70’s. Everyone had changed, but the sporting spirit was still there!

On Friday night, September 13, 2019, the ladies attended the Panther-Flyers football game and were recognized during the 3^rd  quarter. They included (see picture above): Kneeling: Vicki Sapp, Penny Leighner, and Deb Stetler. Back row L to R: Ruth Luginbill , Pam Lowry  Mary Lou Cheek, Cindy Leighner, Kathy King, Tammy Walls, and Colleen Wood. They were honored with these words by Athletic Director Matt Tripplett, “It was 45 years ago this fall that Parkway High School took a monumental step in women’s sports. In the fall of 1974, girls’ interscholastic sports were offered for the first time when volleyball and basketball teams walked onto the court. By the second and third seasons, the girls’ basketball team played in Sectional competition. By the fourth and fifth seasons the team went to District play earning Regional Runner Up in that fifth season. Many of these first players received individual recognition at the local and state levels, and several of them went on to play after high school. These players ~ from the very first girls’ basketball team at PHS ~ were trailblazers in women’s sports and include: Tammy Pontius, Diane Kuhn, Mary Lou Cheek, Cathy Leugers, Belle Feasel, Shari Jackson, Cindy Leighner, Linda Bradrick, Ginny Miller, Cindy Pifer, Kim Rutledge, Traci Schott, Ruth Luginbill, Brenda Hays, Pam Lowry, Vickie Sapp, Patsy McCullough, Karen Bilter, Pam Ahrens, Rita Strukamp, Deb Stetler, Lisa Sealscott, Jeannie Acheson, and Colleen Wood. Also, a special acknowledgment goes out to the very first coaches Jill Howell, Trude Laffin, and Kathy Van Eman (see picture immediately below). A special recognition went to Jon Sidenbender, who was the Midwest Athletic Conference Secretary from 1973 through 1997, and was the driving force behind the addition of girls’ sports in the MAC conference. Congratulations ladies, and thank you for getting the ball rolling."

JV and Varsity First Team
Front row: Ruth Luginbill; Cindy Leighner; Coach Trude Laffin; Tammy Pontius; Coach Kathy Van Eman.
Back row: Principal and Athletic Director: Norm Van Tilburg; Colleen Wood; Patsy McCullough; Pam Lowry; Lisa Sealscott; and Deb Stetler.
 

On Saturday, the excitement in the party room, mixed with the smell of a delicious lunch, created a homey atmosphere of re-acquainting with one another. Pictures were taken (see below), and news of 45 years past filled the air. Planner Penny Jo Leighner Fish asked her mom, Nancy Leighner (who was also the first year bus driver for the team), to say the blessing. And, soon people were enjoying a delicious carry-in meal (with meat provided by the Rockford Carry-Out).

Linda Stelzer shows the 1979 Regional Runners-Up trophy above.

It wasn’t long, though, before former players and coaches were standing up to address the group asking fun questions like, “ What were our nicknames on the team?” Answers: Bunny; Muck; Lucky; Sides; Stilts; Slick; Woody and Katrat. Norm Van Tilburg, their former Principal and AD, asked if they remembered his nicknames: Stormin’ Norman and Bald Eagle. This comment elicited lots of laughter, and Karla Sidenbender Butler said they all KNEW his nicknames, but of course NEVER called him that!

Also, “How did playing basketball inspire you in life?”  Several said they experienced a self-confidence boost while competing against other girls; some mentioned this competitive spirit has carried them throughout their lives, inspiring them in careers, families, and community leadership.  Some went on to become coaches themselves and officiated games.

They discussed things like the Blizzard of 1978, with cancelled games and delays or cancellations due to the school having no money to get them to a game. Money, according to Jon Sidenbender and Norm Van Tilburg (who attended the dinner), was actually the biggest obstacle to Girls Sports. The schools simply did not have the money in the budget to outfit the teams, pay coaches, and bus them to games. But the school board figured it out in time. 

And the ladies in attendance agreed they were so thrilled when they learned there were to be girls teams to play on. Up until 1974, the girls had infrequently played intramurals (when offered) or more often, they played with the boys in the neighborhood. They eventually had girls’ softball teams in the summer. So, these first basketball team players were tough and scrappy and had street experience that boosted them ahead of even their first coaches, Kathy Van Eman, Trude Laffin and Jill Howell. Kathy and Trude discussed how they were just first year teachers themselves and not much older than the girls they coached. Kathy had some experience but it was truly the girls themselves who understood the game. After the first successful year, Linda Stelzer became their coach for 6 years with her husband Gary at her side.

Stelzer mentioned how much time coaching took away from their family. And how her children grew up on practices and games. The ladies agreed they remembered Linda coaching while she was pregnant, and Gary pacing at the top of the bleachers with a baby on his shoulder. Once he floated a suggestion note down to Linda during one of his “time-outs.”  The ladies expressed their appreciation for their coaches and had lots of fun “busting” Gary who had a way-different style of coaching from phys ed teacher Linda. Gary was a Goodyear employee, and had played basketball and knew the sport well. He pushed the girls to work hard and push themselves to their limits – often yelling directives, but it was all for the good. The girls became winners under Linda and Gary!

Gary (pictured above) and Linda discussed how they lived the game at home, too. After every game, they used the salt and pepper shakers on the table (with toothpicks) to work on new plays. This was echoed by the Leighner ladies, as they said they replayed every inch of the night’s game at the dinner table, using salt and pepper shakers.

They discussed the new smaller basketballs the girls play with nowadays and feel they were pretty tough in the 70’s when the girls used the same size basketballs the boys used.

Discussion was held about the 50^th anniversary coming up in 2024, and there is the possibility of a reunion then.

Team from 1977-78. Photo by the late Jinny Wood.

Front row left to right: Tammy Walls, Patsy McCullough, Lori Sidenbender, Penny Leighner, Cara Bader, Lori Hays, Coach Linda Stelzer, Colleen Wood, and Ruth Luginbill.

Second row left to right: Karla Sidenbender, Susan Samples, and Shirley Sites.

The team in action above from the 1977-78 season. Photo by the late Jinny Wood.

#12 Tammy Walls, #44 Ruth Luginbill, #32 Lori Hays, #10 Cara Bader, #24 Penny Leighner

Parkway Team 1978-1979 - Regional Runners-Up

Parkway Team 1977-1978

Front row l to r: Susan Samples; Penny Leighner; Ruth Luginbill; Tammy Walls; Coach Linda Stelzer.
Back row l to r: Karla Sidenbender; Lori Sidenbender; Colleen Wood; Pam Lowry; Lisa Sealscott; Deb Stetler; Lori Hays and Coach Gary Stelzer.

Parkway Team 1976-1977

Click here to read Rockford Village Council minutes September 17, 2019 by Fiscal Agent Lisa Kuhn

 
September 16-18, 2019
 

Buy a Sub Sandwich and Support the Parkway Music Program
The Parkway Music Booster’s annual sub sandwich sales is currently underway. The subs have been sold for many decades and continue to be a favorite of many. This year three different subs will be made: “The Original” (bologna, pork loaf, beef stick, American and Swiss cheeses), ham (ham, American and Swiss cheeses), and turkey breast (turkey, American and Swiss cheeses). Prices are as follows: 1 for $4, 3 for $10, 6 for $18, and 12 for $32. Students in grades 6-12 who are involved with the band or choir programs at Parkway are currently selling the subs. Selling dates are now through Sept. 27th The subs will be made at the school on Saturday, Oct. 19th and will be ready for the students to deliver at that time. All profits from the sub sales will go directly to the Parkway Music Boosters and will be used to support the bands and choirs. The sales are a great way to get a delicious sandwich while providing support to our students. If you would like to purchase subs or have further questions, please call Kendra Miller at 419.203.1205

Fall Comedy Planned in Van Wert

Van Wert, OH Off Stage Productions Inc. is proud to announce their Fall 2019 Dinner Theatre production of “A Doublewide, Texas Christmas”, a Jones, Hope, Wooten comedy. This two-act farce is being directed by Matt Krol.

In this outrageously funny comedy, it’s Christmas-time in the newest—and tiniest—town in Texas. And it’s beginning to look a lot like trouble in Doublewide. Not only are the trailer park residents dealing with the stress of the holiday season, but they’ve just discovered that Doublewide is being doubled-crossed by the County. With their official incorporation papers in jeopardy, this band of eccentric Texans throw themselves into taking on the “Big Guys.” Determined to bolster their legitimacy, they first set their sights on the County-wide “Battle of The Mangers” competition. They conspire to win this smackdown with their “Nativity At The Alamo” entry…by any means possible.

Performances will once again be held in the commons area at Vantage Career Center on October 18*, 19, 20, 25*, 26 & 27.  Enter at the back doors where there will be plenty of free parking spaces available.

*Friday performances are “Popcorn Night”, doors open at 7:00, show at 7:30, includes free popcorn and pretzels (no dinner), price is $13.

Saturday and Sunday dinner shows include full buffet by Romer’s Catering for $28.

Saturday doors open at 6:30, buffet at 7:00, show at 8:00

Sunday matinee doors open at 12:30, buffet at 1:00, show at 2:00

Reservations will open for members on September 30th and to the public on October 2nd.  Box office number will be 419-605-6708.

Pet Palooza & Book Discussion Coming to Rockford Carnegie Library
Join us for a Pet Palooza. We will have a pet themed story, craft, game, and snack. The Family Program will be held at The Rockford Carnegie Library on Tuesday, September 24 at 6:30.

The library's book discussion group will meet Monday, October 7 at 2:00 or 6:30 pm (same discussion). The book being discussed is The Stranger In The Woods, The Extraordinary Story of the Last True Hermit by Michael Finkel. Everyone is welcome! Stop by the library to get your book or book on cd.

ROCKFORD COMMUNITY EVENTS

Saturday –     September 21st – Rockford Fire Department Open House –

            Chicken Dinner and Reverse Raffle

Saturday –     October 5th – Veterans Memorial Fund Raiser -  Community Building

                        Chicken Dinners / Ohio State – Michigan State Game

                        Starts at 4 pm

Monday –      October 7th – Rockford Chamber Banquet – Community Building

                                    Social time starts at 6 pm

Saturday –     October 26th – Halloween - 5 pm – 6:30 pm.  Judging at the Firehouse     at 7 pm.     * new hours began last year J 

Saturday –     November 2nd – Lions Club Fish Fry – benefits Parkway 8th graders DC    Trip -  Community Building.

Friday –          November 8th – St Teresa Chili Supper -   Community building – All are   welcome!  Dine in or carry out available.

Sunday -        November 10th – Classic Country & Bluegrass Jam

            Rockford Community Building – FREE Public event 2 – 5 pm

Saturday –     November 16th – Quarter Auction – Bri Scholarship benefit at the Community  Building

Sunday -        November 17th – Shop and Dine Event benefits the Bicentennial

                                    Lasagna Dinner 11 am – 3 pm

                                    Community Building.

Saturday -      November 30th – Small Business Saturday

Sunday          December 1 – Christmas at the Park  --- more information to come

Wednesday   December 25 – Together at Christmas – Community Building

Tuesday         December 31st -       CELEBRATE ROCKFORD BICENTENNIAL GRAND CELEBRATION – COMMUNITY BUILDING

Rockford United Methodist Church - Sponsor

202 S Franklin St.

Wednesdays – 5:02 pm

Community Meal – all are welcome

Menu posted on Facebook page each week

No school / no meal

 
September 14-15, 2019
 

New Obituaries

 
September 12-13, 2019
 

Sandy and Francis Schaffner Honored for 15+ Years of Service
by Lisa Kuhn and Chamber of Commerce

– Sandy -- Saying THANK YOU isn't enough to show our appreciation for the time and dedication you have given to make Shanes Park a truly unique place for families and friends to gather and make memories.

Your leadership for the past 15+ years is a great example of what it means to 'give back to your community'.!

Congratulations on your retirement ! Enjoy ~~

With love ~~

The Village of Rockford

*A special tree will be planted at Shanes Park in Sandy’s honor !

AND THANK YOU to Francis (Moose) for helping Sandy with park maintenance, making sure the restrooms were unlocked and locked up each day and for years taking care of the sign to welcome guests.

You both make a great team !!

REMINDER – Panther Concession Stand Workers

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday, September 13, 2019

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Friday, September 13, 2019 for the game against Marion Local.

Mike and Katie Huffman; Greg and Tabitha Bolton; Jason and Kristina Boroff; Daniel and Jessica Pennington; Kevin and Tammy Rager; Nathan and Melissa Sinning; and Zac and Abbey Neuenschwander.

Please arrive by 5:45 PM.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345.  Thank you for your help!

Panthers Play Marion Local on Friday

Come on out to the Parkway Football Game on Friday, September 13, 2019.

Under the leadership of Coach Jordan Henkle, the Varsity Team has scored two wins against Crestview and Spencerville. On Friday night they play their first MAC match-up at 7 PM at the Panther home field. See the brand new home bleachers and press box.

45 Anniversary of Parkway Girls’ Sports
by Penny (Leighner) Fish and Colleen (Wood) O’Steen

It was 45 years ago this fall that Parkway High School took a monumental step in women’s sports. In the fall of 1974, girls’ interscholastic sports were offered for the first time when volleyball and basketball teams walked onto the court.

By the second and third seasons, the girls’ basketball team played in Sectional competition. By the fourth and fifth seasons the team went to District play and earning Regional Runner Up in that fifth season. Many of these first players received individual recognition at the local and state levels, and several of them went on to play after high school.

These players ~ from the very first girls’ basketball team at PHS ~ were trailblazers in women’s sports and include: Tammy Pontius, Diane Kuhn, Mary Lou Cheek, Cathy Leugers, Belle Feasel, Shari Jackson, Cindy Leighner, Linda Bradrick, Ginny Miller, Cindy Pifer, Kim Rutledge, Traci Schott, Ruth Luginbill, Brenda Hayes, Pam Lowry, Vickie Sapp, Patsy Mccullough, Karen Bilter, Pam Ahrens, Rita Strukamp, Deb Stetler, Lisa Sealscott, Jeannie, Acheson, and Colleen Wood. Also, a special acknowledgment goes out to the very first coaches Jill Howell, Trude Laffin, and Kathy Van Eman. With special recognition to Jon Sidenbender, who was the Midwest Athletic Conference Secretary from 1973 through 1997, and was the driving force behind the addition of girls’ sports in the MAC conference.

Players and coaches from the first Parkway High School basketball teams from 1974 to 1979 are gathering on Saturday, September 14, 2019 for a reunion. Former planning to attend the Panther –Flyers Football Game on Friday include: Cindy Leighner Thompson, Penny Leighner Fish, Pam Lowry Demeny, Vicki Sapp Smith, Deb Stetler Lowry, and Tammy Walls Cheek. Congratulations ladies, and thank you for getting the ball rolling.

Wynonna Judd Coming to Van Wert

There is "No One Else" like her, Wynonna & The Big Noise
will be lighting up the Niswonger Stage this Sunday at 7:30.
Respected by the millions of fans who are drawn to her music and
Wynonna’s rich and commanding voice fans won't want to miss her as
this years rockin' kick-off to the 19-20 BREAKLOOSE season at the
Niswonger and one of the biggest entertainment events in Northwest
Ohio. For tickets or more information, go online to NPACVW.ORG or call
the Niswonger box office at 419-238-6722.

Memorial Concert Fills Parkway Auditorium with Music

The Larry Seibert Memorial Concert featuring the Lima Area Concert band was held on Sunday, September 8th at 3 pm in the auditorium at Parkway High School located at 400 W Buckeye St. in Rockford. An appreciative crowd enjoyed these beautiful pieces (to name a few): Star Spangled Banner; A tribute of songs to Louis Armstrong; Moon River; Pinball Wizard; Semper Fidelis; God Bless America and Stars and Stripes Forever.  Solo vocals were by Cassie Collins. Several soloists on instruments were also presented.

Click on smaller thumbnail pictures below to enlarge.

Meeting Date at Carnegie Library Changes
The Rockford Carnegie Library is announcing the change of date for its October meeting to TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2019 at 4 p.m.  The location remains the same  in the library meeting room.

TWO FAMILIES OF VETERANS ON HONOR FLIGHT #33

Honor Flight Northeast Indiana (HFNEI) will celebrate its 33rd flight to Washington D.C. on Wednesday, September 18, 2019.

Honor Flight #33 currently consists of a total of 87 veterans: 13 WWII veterans, 60 Korea veterans, 8 Cold War veterans and 6 Vietnam veterans. To date 2,371 veterans have been transported to Washington by Honor Flight Northeast Indiana to reflect upon the memorials built in their honor.

Two families will be experiencing this once in a lifetime opportunity together.

Korea Navy veteran Robert Barton will be traveling with his two veteran sons, and veteran daughter.  Scott Barton is a 20-year Navy veteran, John Barton is a 4-year Army veteran, and daughter Jenna Marie is a 3-year Air Force veteran.  The Barton family will be escorted by another daughter, Shellee Goodrich who will serve as guardian for her dad and 3 siblings.
 
Additionally, a family of three Bandor brothers, Franklin, Daniel, and Randy, all Navy veterans, will be on the Honor Flight.  Daniel’s son, Michael Bandor, a 25-year Air Force veteran and Franklin’s son John Bandor, a 30-year Navy veteran will also be on the flight.  Guardians for the veterans will be other family members.   

After completing their military service in the Navy, the three Bandor brothers all served as officers in the Fort Wayne Police Department.  Originally, there were 5 Bandor brothers, all who served in the Navy.  Max and Roy have since passed away.

Veterans and volunteer guardians will gather at the 122nd Fighter Wing of the Indiana Air National Guard at 5:30 a.m. with take-off projected to be at 7:40 a.m. Returning home, the community is encouraged to patriotically welcome the veterans in the Main Terminal of the Fort Wayne International Airport the evening of September 18.  Return time is tentative, but expected to be at approximately 9:00 p.m. More information regarding the public’s participation and return timing will be shared on the group's Facebook page at HFNEI.


 

Our Old Bookcase, Sept. 19, 2019, First oil well drilled in Reservoir, 1891

=====

OUR OLD BOOK CASE

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

Photo Caption:  Drilling for Oil in the Reservoir, Wapakoneta, Ohio, June 8, 1891

The first oil well drilled in the Reservoir was addressed in “The Weekly News,” Mansfield, Ohio, June 11, 1891.  Credit was given to the Wapakoneta, Ohio news, dated June 8, 1891.   This decade was the beginning of “The Oil Boom,” in Mercer and Auglaize Counties,” at the turn of the Century.

 “Mercer County Ohio Oil & Gas Well History,” is the latest history book in progress by the Mercer County Historical Society, Inc.  This will be the last season of requesting your stories and/or photographs about the oil and/or gas wells in Mercer County, including Grand Lake which is also in Auglaize County.

Visit the Exhibit, “Mercer County Oil & Gas Well History, & Grand Lake, with Auglaize County,” at the Mercer County Historical Museum, Sunday afternoon, 1:00 – 4:00, September 22, 2019.

The first oil well drilled in Celina, Ohio was dated June 18, 1886.  The next month, Saint Marys had its first oil well drilled on July 26, 1886.  Neither of these two wells ended in grand success stories of wealth.  However, Northwest Ohio, between Mercer County and Lake Erie was making announcements of their successful oil and gas wells.  The stories of riches and/or treasures and/or treasure hunts caught the attention of so many people throughout history.  Within a Decade, the stories of gold being found in Alaska and the Klondike in Canada, set off another treasure hunt, for citizens of Mercer and Auglaize County, as well as around the world, 1898-1900.  Preceding these gold rush stories was the 1849 gold rush in California; the participants were called “forty-niners.” 

Statistics about the number of wells on or adjacent to the Reservoir, and the number of barrels of oil produced is unbelievable, comparing 1891 with today.  J.C. Lineman was one of the gentlemen who owned 24 oil wells on the State Lands, i.e. in and around the Reservoir.  Between July 1891 and January 1892, J.C. Lineman’s total gross production was listed as 166,368 barrels of oil.  The number of oil wells listed on State Lands came to a total of 77 wells, in 1891-1892.  The statement, “At one time, there were a hundred oil wells on the Lake,” may have been true?

The number of oil wells in the Reservoir and around the shore of the Reservoir is one part of this great story of “The Oil Boom in Mercer & Auglaize Counties.”   The other part of the story is the vast number of oil and gas wells in the Fourteen Townships in Mercer County, as well as the number of oil and gas wells in Auglaize County’s Townships.

The latest book in progress for the Mercer County Historical Society, Inc. is about “Mercer County Ohio Oil & Gas Well History.”  This history book, not only includes Mercer County’s history, but also includes highlights of the oil and gas well history in Auglaize, Van Wert, Darke Counties Ohio, and Jay County, Indiana.  The setting of the Oil and Gas Well Boom is the story of the Trenton Field, here in Northwest Ohio and Northeast Indiana. 

The National Petroleum History Institute has contributed research for the larger picture of this story of Petroleum in the Trenton Field, as well as across the Nation.  Geologists are the technical people who have helped in the research.  This topic will be addressed another day.

My favorite time in doing this research is with Mercer Countians who are sharing the history of oil and/or gas wells in their local Townships.  If you have stories about local gas or oil wells, this fall is your last chance to share that information with me for this new book, which will then go to press.  Photographs are always “worth a thousand words.”   If you have photographs related to the gas or oil wells and tools, would  you be so kind as to permit me to make a copy of your photographs for this book?  The local history books which the Mercer County Historical Society has produced are only as good as the Mercer County Citizens who share their stories and photographs with us.  I hope to hear from you.

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

Rockford Police Department - Drug Take Back event on
October 26th - 10 am - 2 pm

In cooperation with the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department.

No liquids and no needles

Artist Marlen Yost will Present at Library 

The Lake Area Arts Group welcomes art presenter, Marlen Yost,St.
  Marys, at their September 16, meeting at the Celina Public library at
  6 pm. He will show members how he starts with a tree branch and goes
  thru the process of turning it into an art piece. With over seventeen
  kind of wood, Yost will show how they can be combined into unique art
  work.
  
  Also presenting will be ceramic artist Sherry Chandler who will
  display her small size throwing wheel which she uses to create
  miniature ceramic vessels.
  
  There will be a drawing for three art pieces donated by Francis
  Furniture.
  

Our Old Bookcase, Sept. 12, 2019,

=====

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

Photo Caption:  The building at Motor Inn, at the Village of Mercer, has been lost of Mercer County’s History.  Tom Wise, Van Wert, shared this photograph to the Mercer County Historical Society, during the years I served as Mercer County Historical Museum Director, 1975-2004.

The recognition to this loss of this building, a part of Mercer County’s history, was noted in the August 30, 2019 issue of The Daily Standard.  The photo confirmed that Belna Crushing of Rockford and Tom’s Construction of St. Henry was tearing down the 80 year old Motor Inn restaurant at the intersection of U.S. 127 and U.S. 33.  The Restaurant Manager Jeremy Iiams confirmed plans for a new Truck Stop at that site. 

Look at the photo above, and tell me the date of the car, adjacent to the gas pump.  The year 2019 minus 80 years would be 1939.  Is 1939 the date of the car in the photo?

Today, I want to honor past local historians who went before us.  Without these past local historians, we might not know the history of The Motor Inn.  The Mercer County Courthouse Recorder’s Office records local land owners, dating to the Founding of Mercer County in 1824.  The Mercer County History Books recorded local history, 1882, 1896, 1907, and 1978.  Paul and Orpha Hosack authored two books about the 150 Anniversary of Mercer Methodism, 1820-1970. 

Pat Amato, The Daily Standard, June 27, 1974, provided one full page of photographs, interviews, and history of Mercer.  Amato featured a photograph of Thelma and Stanley McNutt in 1940, when Stanley ran a trucking line and garage.  In 1954, they built a new restaurant, when the State widened the Road.  In 1966, the new garage was built.  Over the years, the owners of the Motor Inn changed.  Many local citizens remember owners Richard and Shirley Bolton, as well as long term Employees. 

Mrs. John Maurer wrote the History of Mercer, in the 1978 “Mercer County Ohio History.”  Bolton’s Motor Inn, Inc. Post Card, was featured in the book  “Our Post Card Past, Mercer County, Ohio, in Celebration of Ohio’s Bicentennial, 1803-2003.  The History of Bolton’s Motor Inn was included in the book, “Those Magnificent Big Barns of Mercer County,” 1990-1993.  Rex and Carl Marsee wrote the book, “Mercer Memories,” in 2016.  Over the years,  many local historians wrote about Mercer’s first name, the local churches, schools, the railroad, the businesses,  and local events.  I did not live in Dublin Township, and do not know all of the local stories of local citizens.  Those of you who have stories on the history of the Village of Mercer, please share those stories with the Mercer County Historical Society.

Oil and gas wells were prolific in Mercer County, in the 1890’s, including Dublin Township.  Since I am addressing the History of the Village of Mercer, may I ask for your help, in identifying any former oil and gas wells, within the Village of Mercer, and/or on the land around this Village? I am finishing this book about the Oil and Gas Wells in Mercer County, including Grand Lake, and nearby Counties.  Mercer Countians are welcome to contact me, about stories and/or photographs, before I complete the book and take it to the Printers.  This book has been a joy to do the research, but I never suspected the great amount of history available about the oil and gas wells in Mercer County, especially around and in Grand Lake, at the turn of the Century.  Thank you for your patience in watching for this book to be in print.

[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.]

A brand new Motor Inn Truck Stop and Restaurant are nearly finished at the intersection of U.S. Rte 33 and St. Rt. 127 in Mercer (Mendon) Ohio. The old buildings had served the area since the c 1950's, when it was an all-night diner, truck stop and gas station. Buildings were beyond repair. The new buildings sit directly behind the old. Thanks to Patrick Agler for sharing the demolition pictures!

28th Annual Indiana MVPA Military Vehicle Show Jay County Fairgrounds, Portland, IN

Experience a bit of history on September 13th and 14th, 2019 as the Indiana Military Vehicle Preservation Association and the Museum of the Soldier host the 28th Annual Military Vehicle Show at the Jay County Fairgrounds in Portland, Indiana.  Military trucks, jeeps, and unusual vehicles as well as re-enactors and living history exhibits will be on display Friday the 13th and Saturday the 14th.  Admission is $5.00 single or $10 per carload.  Active military get in free with ID card.

The Museum of the Soldier will host a BBQ chicken supper on Friday the 14th from 4:30 pm until 7:30 pm at the 4-H Building, Jay County Fairgrounds. Tickets for the supper are $10.00 and must be ordered in advance by calling 260-729-7017 or 260-251-7770.   They can also be purchased by sending a self-addressed envelope and check to Museum of the Soldier, PO Box 518, Portland, Indiana, 47371.

A large variety of military vehicle will be on display at the fairgrounds.  You will see a variety of vehicles used during the various military conflicts.  Saturday at 10:00 am there will be a convoy of military vehicles thru downtown Portland.    

All military vehicle owners and re-enactors are invited and welcome to be part of this great experience.  The show is open to the public.  This is a chance to see a wide variety of military equipment and vehicles.  For more information, contact Jim Waechter at 260-729-7017 or Matt Simmons at 260-251-7770.

Van Wert County Ag. Society Thanks Chamber
Photo Left to right: Quincy Thompson, Kathy McCollow, Kim Mason, Sammi Joseph, Mark Verville, Roger Thompson, Peter Niagu, Megan Pardon, and Mike Poling

The Van Wert County Ag. Society wanted to recognize and thank the Chamber of Commerce Leadership class for taking on the Grandstand Project this year. If you made it out to the 163rd Fair that just wrapped earlier this week you would have seen some major improvements to our grandstand. It had boards replaced, was freshly painted, and completely renumbered. With the help of this group and the support of the donors and this community it would have not been possible.

They are standing in front of the permanent sign that was installed in the hall of the grandstand.

Stateline Writer's Club to Meet

The Stateline Writer's Club is scheduled to meet on Saturday, September 21, at 10 a.m. in the Celina public library.  The suggested composition topic is "family."  Local author Ann Brown Leinweber, also known as Veronica Brunner, will be the guest speaker.  The public is welcome.

Out-of-compliance Sex Offender Arrested

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports that his office has arrested an out-of-compliance sex offender for Failure to Register address.  Francis J. Harmer, age 44, of 441 N. Linn St., St. Henry, was taken into custody this afternoon at his workplace.

In June of 2009, Mr. Harmer was convicted in Auglaize County of Importuning, which is soliciting someone older than thirteen years of age but less than sixteen years of age for sex.  Upon his conviction, Mr. Harmer was ordered to register as a sex offender for 15 years from conviction date.  One of the duties Mr. Harmer is required to follow is to personally register with the Sheriff’s Office annually.

Mr. Harmer was due to register on August 24.  He did not register and a warning letter, as required by law, was sent to him to give him seven days to register.  As of the time of his arrest on September 4, he had not registered or contacted the Sheriff’s Office at all regarding his registration status.

Mr. Harmer is being held in the Mercer County Jail, without bond, pending his arraignment on September 6.

Paulding residents join “Saved by the Belt” Club

Paulding – Paulding residents Holly M. Manz and Brynley E. Manz joined Ohio’s “Saved by the Belt” Club today after their safety belts saved them from being seriously injured or killed in a crash. The incident occurred on US127 in Benton Township in Paulding County on July 9, 2019.

On September 4, 2019, Lt. Jonathon Gray, Van Wert Post commander, presented them with “Saved by the Belt” certificates signed by Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Thomas J. Stickrath and Colonel Richard S. Fambro, Patrol superintendent.

“Holly and Brynley are living testimony to the effectiveness of safety belts,” Lt. Gray said. “Everyone needs to buckle up, every trip, every time.”

In 2018, 419 people were killed in traffic crashes where a safety belt was available but not in use.

 PHOTO

The “Saved by the Belt” Club is a joint effort by the Ohio Department of Public Safety and more than 400 Ohio law enforcement agencies. This club is designed to recognize people who have benefited from their decision to wear safety belts.

Holly Manz also received a “Saved by the Belt” license plate bracket.

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

 
September 5-11, 2019 - Patriot's Day
 

18 Years Ago on September 11, 2001 Terrorist Attacks Killed Over 3000 People – Today We Celebrate Patriot Day

In the immediate aftermath of the attacks, President George W. Bush proclaimed Friday, September 14, 2001, as a National Day of Prayer and Remembrance for the Victims of the Terrorist Attacks on September 11, 2001.

A bill to make September 11 a national day of mourning was introduced in the U.S. House on October 25, 2001. The bill requested that the President designate September 11 of each year as Patriot Day. The bill passed the Senate unanimously on November 30. President Bush signed the resolution into law. On September 4, 2002, President Bush used the authority of the resolution to proclaim September 11, 2002, as the first Patriot Day.

Mendon Water Tower

The old Mendon Water tower is scheduled for demolition soon. The NEW water tower is nearly finished. With a new well drilled supplying fresh water.

Former Wright State University Lake Campus Dean Dies

A favorite dean of the Wright State University Lake Campus, Bonnie Mathies died on Wednesday, August 7, 2019 at her home after dealing with cancer.  She had been a dean at the campus for 5 years but taught in the education field (public high school and college) for nearly 50 years. She was a dedicated educator and friend to all and will be deeply missed.

Men’s Prostate Cancer Group to Tour Hospital Departments

Man to Man is a group to support men who have been diagnosed with or have been treated for prostate cancer or who would like more information about prostate cancer.  At the next meeting a tour of some of the newer departments of Joint Township District Memorial Hospital will be conducted. These will include the Medical Imaging Dept., the Wound Clinic as well as the new Grand Lake Rehab and Wellness Center.  The meeting will be held at 7:00PM on Tuesday, September 17th at the Joint Township District Memorial Hospital. The atmosphere is casual and all interested men are invited to attend.  For more information contact Dick Falkner, facilitator, at 419-629-9950 or mantoman@nktelco.net.

 
September 3-4, 2019
 

New obituary - see link above

Click here for a printable flyer on everything you can learn through ASPIRE Class at St. Marys and Celina Locations.
Morning and evening classes available.

 
September 1-2, 2019
 

Undefeated Parkway Football Team of Fall 1973 Gathers for a Celebration
Honored at Friday Night Game at Rockford on September 30, 2019
by Sheila Baltzell-Linn 9-1-2019
The undefeated Parkway Football Team of Fall 1973 enjoyed a reunion night under the lights at the Parkway Football Game on Friday, August 30, 2019 in the stadium. In a pre-game ceremony, prior to the Parkway-Crestview Game, the team players, coaches, band director, widow of the head coach, and cheerleaders from 1973 lined up on the field and heard a wonderful recount of the season that has never happend before or since. The 1973 Football Team went 10-0 that year. In the announcement of that momentous season, the announcer described their head coach, the late John Reed and his coaching staff and their desire to lead the young men of the team to a successful outcome. The players did more than that by working together as a team and beating their opponents, one after the other. The group sat together at the game and enjoyed the current Panthers defeat of the Crestview 33-20. Later on, the group gathered at the Shanes Park Small Building to celebrate together with a donated pizza meal after the game. It was there that they were able to peruse old pictures, playbooks, scorecards, programs and newspaper clippings. Jan Reed, widow of Head Coach John Reed and Mike Bruns, supplied much of the memorabilia. Spouses and friends visited long into the evening, enjoying the memories of that spectacular Fall Football Season.

Group shot above by Sheila Baltzell-Linn
Front Row Seated Left to right: Rod Stover; Tom Clouse (Assistant Coach); Dawn (Davis) Coffey (Cheerleader); Jan Reed (widow of Head Coach John Reed); Kathy (Beerbower) Bransteter (Cheerleader); Gary Mastin (Assistant Head Coach).

Back Row Left to right: Tom Stover; Brad Carr; Tom Baxter; Larry Passwaters; Rick Davis; Brian Stover; Curtis "Pete" Hayes; Joe Whitaker; Richard Sherrick (Marching Band Director); Mike Bruns; Mark Leugers; Jerome Philips; Mark Hoenie; and Ed Fuelling.

Pictures below - Click on the thumbnails to enlarge them.

At the pre-game ceremony - above.

Above: Clipping from the Photo Star from a prior celebration of the 10-0 team of 1973-1974 school year.

Support the Parkway Band Program
Attend the  Lima Area Concert Band Coming to Parkway High School
By Sheila Baltzell-Linn

The Larry Seibert Memorial Concert featuring the Lima Area Concert band will be held on Sunday, September 8th at 3 pm in the auditorium at Parkway High School located at 400 W Buckeye St. in Rockford.

Adult tickets - $7 and Students - free
All proceeds will benefit the Parkway High School Band Program.

Lima Area Concert Band

The Lima Area Concert Band has been performing since 1971.  The band is comprised of seventy volunteer musicians who all share the love of music.  The members of the LACB are a living testimony that music truly is a lifetime activity. It is a means of expression that encourages personal challenge, camaraderie, well spent leisure time, and just plain fun.  It is a shining example of the value of music education in our schools. 

And, who else knew this better than the late Larry Seibert!?

A gift to Karen, by her friend Deb Wolters, this drawing of Larry is by artist Julie Baltes.

Larry’s Lifetime of Music

Larry Seibert, a Mendon native and more recently a citizen of Rockford, had volunteered with the Lima Area Concert Band  from 2006 until his death in January 2017. Although bassoon was his instrument of choice, Larry could play several instruments well.  Larry first learned he had esophageal cancer in 2013, according to his loving widow, Karen (Donnerberg) Seibert, who is sponsoring this concert in Larry’s memory. Following treatment, the cancer was found to be in remission. 

Unfortunately the cancer returned in 2016 and despite their efforts to combat it, the cancer took his life much too early on January 28, 2017.

Larry was a Defiance college graduate with a degree in Music Education K-12. He taught briefly but then, as many of you may remember, he went to work with family at Bob’s Audio-Video in Celina, OH. Larry had a real knack with electronics but always kept one foot in the music industry.

He played with: the West Ohio Big Band; Grand Lake Symphony Orchestra; Dick Sherrick’s Van Wert Alumni Band; St. Marys Community Band; Black Swamp Musicians and the Bluffton College Community Band. Karen says he fully returned to music in 2000 playing with Grand Lake Symphony Orchestra and  Bluffton College.

A short time later he joined the Lima Area Concert Band playing clarinet. Beyond teaching and directing, Larry came from a very musically inclined family, which included his father and nieces Sarah and Shirissa Seibert, all Mendon/Parkway alumni.

One of Larry's biggest dreams was to offer the caliber of music that the Lima Area Concert Band plays to his Rockford family and friends and to show to the local band students that playing music shouldn't end after high school.  “Music fed his soul,” said Karen. Larry helped to plan and coordinate the first concert at Parkway in August of 2016.

Karen and the Parkway School Band Program invites the community and surrounding communities to please join with them as they celebrate Larry's life and enjoy the wonderful music as performed by Larry's close friends and a large part of his music “family”, the extremely talented musicians of the Lima Area Concert Band.

Concert Details

The Larry Seibert Memorial Concert featuring the Lima Area Concert band will be held on Sunday, September 8th at 3 pm in the auditorium at Parkway High School located at 400 W Buckeye St. in Rockford.

Adult tickets - $7 and Students - free

All proceeds will benefit the Parkway High School Band Program.

Rockford Methodist Church Starts Annual School Program
A long-standing tradition will resume when Rockford United Methodist Church begins their 2019-2020 Kids Club sessions on September 4. Students from K-5 are invited to be part of a faith based offering which includes snacks, crafts and games. A time to do homework is offered and supervised by volunteers. Students participating will be picked up at Parkway School and chauffeured in the church bus to the church building at 202 South Franklin Street.

Following Kids Club sessions, a hearty, delicious meal will be available in the church Social Room. Serving begins at 5:02 pm. Parents coming to pick up their children are invited to stay and eat. This Community meal is offered at no charge. However, free will offerings are accepted.

Nathan Rupp facilitates the program with assistance from many volunteers from the church congregation. Pastor Chip Steffy is lead pastor at the church and often is on hand each Wednesday to help with homework.

Vantage Celebrates Fall Sports Spirit Day – Over 50 student athletes, cheerleaders, color guard, and band members from all 13 associate schools were recognized recently on Fall Sports Spirit Day.  Vantage students gain advanced skills and training, graduating with an industry recognized credential, while maintaining an active home school connection in sports and other activities. Wishing all of our student athletes a successful fall sports season!

Assure Suicide Awareness Community Walk Benefiting Suicide Awareness and Support

Mercer County, Ohio September 7, 2019 – People from throughout Mercer County are participating in the upcoming ASSURE (Area Suicide Support Resources) Suicide Awareness Community Walk on Saturday, September 7.  The fundraising walk supports vital research, education, advocacy, suicide prevention initiatives and programs to support those impacted by suicide in Mercer County.

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

“Our hopes are that this walk will not only help raise funds for research, but help people understand suicide and its effects on family and friends.  It will also help local people affected by suicide loss and support our survivors by providing support groups and more,” stated committee member James Byron.

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

It is estimated that close to 1 million Americans make a suicide attempt, more than 36,000 die by suicide, and more than 20 million suffer from depression each year. In an average year, in Mercer County, law enforcement encounters approximately 50 people who threaten suicide, attempted suicide, and sadly some that complete suicide. This walk is to bring awareness and hope for those who struggle with life.

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

Plastic Caps Collected for Benches

Reed Shaffer of the Rockford American Legion Post 508  recently gave a donation to Pastor Matt, the New Horizons Student Ministries Leader,  in show of appreciation for the help with the plastic cap collection.  The plastic caps will be processed into benches that will surround the Veterans Memorial at Hedges Park in Rockford. 

The Veterans Memorial dedication is slated for Memorial Day 2020.   It's wonderful to see organizations working together to honor our Veterans.

Retired Public Employees Plan Meeting with Guest Speaker on Scams
The Mercer County PERI Chapter #13 will hold their next meeting on Tuesday, September 10, 2019.  The meeting will begin at 10:00 A.M. and be held at the Hopewell Grange Hall on the grounds of the Mercer County Fairgrounds.  In attendance will be the newly appointed representative for District #2, Mr. Robert White. 

Guest speaker will be Ms. Katie Harper, Outreach Coordinator for the Ohio Attorney General's office for consumer protection.  Ms. Harper is an enthusiastic & informative speaker cautioning the public about telephone scams and other fraud situations.

As always, those arriving early are welcome to coffee, juice, and donuts beginning at 9:30 A.M.

by Sharon Heitbrink, Secretary PERI Chapter #13 

Van Wert Chamber of Commerce Leadership Class Invites You
We’re building local leaders with the Chamber’s Leadership Van Wert County Program. We are now accepting nominations for the Class of 2020 through Friday, September 25th.

Van Wert area companies with vision make it a priority for develop their leadership skills through the Leadership Van Wert County program. 

Leadership Van Wert County is a program which provides leadership development to area residents and employees to strengthen their ability to become effective leaders both at work and within their communities. Participants will develop an awareness and sensitivity to issues facing their organizations, challenging them to enhance their own leadership skills to best serve their companies and the Van Wert community. 

Participants in the program meet one day a month for total of nine monthly sessions beginning with a “Meet the Class” breakfast on Friday, September 27th at Willow Bend C.C. 

“The Leadership Program sharpens an individual’s leadership skills.  It also enhances the skills a person already possesses,” shares Class of 2016 Graduate and current committee member, Mitch Price. “This program teaches leadership principles and offers the opportunity for individual and workplace growth.  Leaders show themselves in different areas at different times during the program.”

A variety of leading edge leadership topics are covered during the program to ensure a diverse curriculum for participants, including personality styles, conflict resolution, project management, change management, team building, volunteerism, time management, social services, Van Wert County resources and tours, and the FISH! Philosophy.  Class members will also receive a free ticket to the Leadercast event on May 7, 2020. Leadercast 2020 is an opportunity to see and hear world-renowned leaders unveil their vision and strategies to become leaders worth following.

Rockford Bi-Centennial Committee Posts Meeting Dates

Please mark your calendars for the following Bicentennial Committee meetings -
all meetings begin at 7 pm - Rockford Village Hall 

September 9  * Note 2nd Monday of month
October 14 * Note 2nd Monday of month
November 4
December 2

Parkway September 2019 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

 
August 24-31, 2019
 

A brand new Motor Inn Truck Stop and Restaurant are nearly finished at the intersection of U.S. Rte 33 and St. Rt. 127 in Mercer (Mendon) Ohio. The old buildings had served the area since the c 1950's, when it was an all-night diner, truck stop and gas station. Buildings were beyond repair. The new buildings sit directly behind the old. Thanks to Patrick Agler for sharing the demolition pictures!

REMINDER

Concession Stand Workers Listed for Friday, August 30, 2019

The following Parkway Music Booster parents are scheduled to work in the concession stand on Friday, August 30, 2019 for the game against Crestview.

Mike and Tara Baltzell; Ryan and Leah Thompson; Doug and Lynne Hughes; Bruce and Trisha Berry; Kyle and Mary Osborne; Jason and Lindsay Baxter; and Justin and Summer Ellis.

Please arrive by 5:45 PM.  If you are unable to work please make arrangements for someone to work for you or contact Heather Barker at 419-305-1345.  Thank you for your help!

 
August 22-23, 2019
 

WABASH ROAD IMPROVEMENTS BETWEEN THE VILLAGE OF FT. RECOVERY AND ST. JOE ROAD

Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart announced today, contingent upon weather conditions, Kahlig Dozing & Excavating, Inc. is continuing construction work Wednesday, August 21, 2019 on a 1 mile section of Wabash Road northeast of the Village of Ft. Recovery. 

The improvements will involve horizontal and vertical road improvements, pavement and shoulder widening and resurfacing.  The road will be closed to through traffic for approximately 5 weeks and local access will be maintained.  The completion deadline for the project is October 1, 2019.

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. 

by Mercer County Engineer’s Office Phone: 419.586.7759
Email: engineer@mercercountyohio.org 

To Read Older Articles - Click Here

 
August 12- 21, 2019
 

Bonfire Planned - GO PANTHERS! BEAT CRESTVIEW KNIGHTS!

All Panthers fans are invited to come support the football team at a bonfire at River Trail Campground on August 29th at 7:15, 7712 Deepcut Rd, Mendon.  

Link to all Fall Sports Schedules for the Parkway Panthers!

Support the Parkway Band Program
Attend the  Lima Area Concert Band Coming to Parkway High School
By Sheila Baltzell-Linn

The Larry Seibert Memorial Concert featuring the Lima Area Concert band will be held on Sunday, September 8th at 3 pm in the auditorium at Parkway High School located at 400 W Buckeye St. in Rockford.

Adult tickets - $7 and Students - free
All proceeds will benefit the Parkway High School Band Program.

Lima Area Concert Band

The Lima Area Concert Band has been performing since 1971.  The band is comprised of seventy volunteer musicians who all share the love of music.  The members of the LACB are a living testimony that music truly is a lifetime activity. It is a means of expression that encourages personal challenge, camaraderie, well spent leisure time, and just plain fun.  It is a shining example of the value of music education in our schools. 

And, who else knew this better than the late Larry Seibert!?

A gift to Karen, by her friend Deb Wolters, this drawing of Larry is by artist Julie Baltes.

Larry’s Lifetime of Music

Larry Seibert, a Mendon native and more recently a citizen of Rockford, had volunteered with the Lima Area Concert Band  from 2006 until his death in January 2017. Although bassoon was his instrument of choice, Larry could play several instruments well.  Larry first learned he had esophageal cancer in 2013, according to his loving widow, Karen (Donnerberg) Seibert, who is sponsoring this concert in Larry’s memory. Following treatment, the cancer was found to be in remission. 

Unfortunately the cancer returned in 2016 and despite their efforts to combat it, the cancer took his life much too early on January 28, 2017.

Larry was a Defiance college graduate with a degree in Music Education K-12. He taught briefly but then, as many of you may remember, he went to work with family at Bob’s Audio-Video in Celina, OH. Larry had a real knack with electronics but always kept one foot in the music industry.

He played with: the West Ohio Big Band; Grand Lake Symphony Orchestra; Dick Sherrick’s Van Wert Alumni Band; St. Marys Community Band; Black Swamp Musicians and the Bluffton College Community Band. Karen says he fully returned to music in 2000 playing with Grand Lake Symphony Orchestra and  Bluffton College.

A short time later he joined the Lima Area Concert Band playing clarinet. Beyond teaching and directing, Larry came from a very musically inclined family, which included his father and nieces Sarah and Shirissa Seibert, all Mendon/Parkway alumni.

One of Larry's biggest dreams was to offer the caliber of music that the Lima Area Concert Band plays to his Rockford family and friends and to show to the local band students that playing music shouldn't end after high school.  “Music fed his soul,” said Karen. Larry helped to plan and coordinate the first concert at Parkway in August of 2016.

Karen and the Parkway School Band Program invites the community and surrounding communities to please join with them as they celebrate Larry's life and enjoy the wonderful music as performed by Larry's close friends and a large part of his music “family”, the extremely talented musicians of the Lima Area Concert Band.

Concert Details

The Larry Seibert Memorial Concert featuring the Lima Area Concert band will be held on Sunday, September 8th at 3 pm in the auditorium at Parkway High School located at 400 W Buckeye St. in Rockford.

Adult tickets - $7 and Students - free

All proceeds will benefit the Parkway High School Band Program.

Parkway Boys Golf at Lancer Invitational on August 12, 2019

The Parkway Boys Golf team finished 4th out of 7 teams at the Lancer Invitational at Hickory Sticks  Golf Club (par 72) in Van Wert on Monday. Three Panthers, Hunter Bruns, Gabe Schaaf, and Camdyn Clay, led the way with scores of 93. Caden Slusher finished the the top four with a 96, for a team total of 375. Adam Stephenson and Breyden Bruns both shot 100 for Parkway as well. Hunter Bruns received 10th place individual honors by winning the tiebreaker.

by Joe Falk

Head Boys Golf Coach

Parkway Boys Golf Team Meet at Celina Invitational 8-9-2019

By Joe Falk, Head Golf Coach

Click Here for the Parkway Boys Golf Teams' Schedules

Karen Seibert of Rockford opened her massage therapy studio at 211 N. Oak Street in Rockford.
Trained and graduated in 2015 at the Institute of Therapeutic Massage in Lima, OH, Karen has now been a licensed massage therapist for 4 years.

Appointments at her beautiful new studio is by appointment only. Email her at karenseibertlmt@gmail.com or call her at 419-953-8782

Parkway School Board Agenda for Regular Meeting
by Sally Cox for August 13, 2019

Area Woman is Missing - Reported by Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey

Celina, OH-Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey today said the Sheriff’s Office is cooperating with several other law enforcement agencies in an attempt to locate Shawna Lynn Rue, age 33, last known address 201 S. Walnut St., Union City, IN.

On August 8, we received a report from Shawna Rue’s sister that she had been missing since Saturday, August 3.  Her sister reported that she might go by the name of Shawna Ressler as that is her married name.  Her sister advised that was the last time anyone had spoken to her was Saturday.

The sister reported to Mercer County as, at that time, she thought this was the last location Shawna was seen.  Shawna’s husband is currently incarcerated at the Mercer County Adult Detention facility and Shawna visited her husband from 6:40-7:00 PM.

Sgt Westgerdes then spoke to Shawna’s husband, Steve Ressler in the jail.  Mr. Ressler confirmed that he did have a visit with his wife on Saturday evening.  He stated that they talked about some issues that did not make Shawna happy.  He gave Sgt. Westgerdes some locations to check that Shawna may have went too.

Sgt Westgerdes contacted law enforcement agencies in those jurisdictions and she was not located at any of those locations.  Shawna’s sister advised that she had went to a residence in Union City where Shawna was most recently staying and learned that Shawna was not there.   That is when she decided to report her missing.

Sgt Westegerdes contacted the Sheriff’s Office IT department and had the surveillance videos pulled.  Shawna left the Sheriff’s Office in her Black Chevy Trailblazer and there was no indication of any foul play as she left the Sheriff’s Office.

Later Saturday evening, Shawna dropped her children off at their grandmother’s house in Union City, IN.  The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office and the Darke County Sheriff’s Office have both issued BOLO’s for Shawna.  “At this point, I don’t believe Mercer County has jurisdiction,” stated Sheriff Grey, “it appears that she was fine when she dropped the children off, and that is her last known location at this time, which is not in Mercer County.  We are continuing efforts to locate Shawna, however, we have obtained no new leads.”

If anyone has any information on her whereabouts, please contact the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office at 419-586-7724 and we will then ensure the proper law enforcement agency is notified.

Ft. Wayne Maennerchor/Damenchor
"Celebrating 150 years of German Culture through Song - 1869 to 2019"

There is an  All you Can Eat Fish Fry and Pork Tenderloin Dinner sponsored by Ft. Wayne Maennerchor/Damenchor coming this Fall

The location is  Ft. Wayne Maennerchor/Damenchor at Park Edelweiss

3355 Elmhurst Drive, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46809

Fall dates include:  August 9, September 13, October 11, and November 8

TIME:  4:30 to 7:00PM. Cost is  $9.00 adults, $5.00 children.

DETAILS:  All you can eat fish and pork tenderloin with scalloped potatoes, coleslaw, dessert and coffee. Full service bar available with German and domestic beer, wine and other beverages and soft drinks. Live German music.

 
August 4-11, 2019
 

Mercer County Fair - August 9 - 15, 2019

Parkway Boys Golf Team Meet

Rob Contini Memorial Lima City Invitational - LCC

Colonial Golf Course - August 08, 2019

1. Elida; 2. Lima Central Catholic 348; 3. Shawnee 354;

4. Allen East 364; 5. Bath 391; 6. Parkway 392; 7. Arlington 409; 8. Perry 0;

By Joe Falk, Head Golf Coach

Click Here for the Parkway Boys Golf Teams' Schedules

Parkway Golf Teams Scores - Celina Lynx Golf Club, par 72 on August 6, 2019

Mercer County Invitational Varsity Scores
Mercer County Invitational JV Scores

Click Here for the Parkway Boys Golf Teams' Schedules

Concert In The Park by Van Wert Area Concert Band

On Friday August 16th the Van Wert Area Community Concert Band will present a concert in the band shell of Fountain Park in Van Wert, Ohio. The performance will begin at 7:00 p.m. and is free to the public.  Music to be performed will include the 1971 CBS sports theme "Championship", Michael W. Smith's "Emmanuel", 1954 doo-wop hit by the Penguins "Earth Angel", Styx’s 1978 billboard hit “Come Sail Away”, and John Philip Sousa’s “The Belle Of Chicago”.   

Also featured on the concert will be tenor saxophone soloist Bob Loughrige playing “Harlem Nocturne”.  Bob was a well-known band director at Celina High School and legendary jazz musician in the Lima and surrounding area. Many will remember him, his brother Boyd and Jerry Amato as members of the popular dance and jazz band the “Pastels”. Bob also formed the 16 member group “The West Ohio Big Band”. The concert will conclude with rousing songs of The Ohio State University, including “Carmen Ohio”, “Across The Field”, “The Hey Song” and “Hang On Sloopy”.

          
A food stand will be available prior to the concert provided by the District Eastern Star starting at 5:00PM.  Please join the band directed by Richard Sherrick and featuring members from, Van Wert, Glenmore, Delphos, Convoy, Chat, Middle Point, Coldwater, and Rockford. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be moved to an announced location or cancelled. Please listen to the local radio station for this information.

Parkway August 2019 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Patrol promotes school bus safety - August is school bus safety month

VAN WERT – This month, thousands of Ohio school children will be heading back to school. For many of these students their day starts and ends by riding a school bus. The safety of the students riding to and from school and to school-sanctioned events is top priority.

From 2016 through 2018, 3,962 traffic crashes involved school buses in Ohio. During this time, four fatal crashes occurred killing four and injuring 1,268. None of those killed were on a school bus.

“All Ohioans can help make this school year a safe one,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “School bus safety involves a commitment from motorists, parents, and children.”

“Safety on the roadway is a shared responsibility by school bus drivers and motorists,” said Lt. Jonathon Gray, commander of the Van Wert Post. “Motorists should always exercise caution while children are boarding and exiting school buses.”

As the buses return to the roadways, the Patrol has a few reminders: Motorists are required to stop at least 10 feet in front of or behind a school bus when flashing lights and an extended arm are displayed and cannot resume driving until the school bus begins moving. The Patrol also reminds motorists to plan ahead and allow extra time for school bus stops. 

School buses are also required to be inspected twice a year to ensure the bus is operating properly. Every bus used to transport students is inspected before the beginning of the school year and once randomly during the year. From 2016 through 2018, the Patrol performed 121,876 inspections.

For a complete statistical breakdown of school bus inspections, crashes and passing stopped school bus violations, visit https://statepatrol.ohio.gov/doc/School_Bus_Bulletin_2019.pdf

Mercer County Fair Art Activities

The Lake Area Arts Group invites fair attendees to visit artist during
next weeks fair. Opportunities to win art pieces will be available at
their booth and students can learn about the free art workshops
presented by The Lake Area Arts Group starting in the fall.

The schedule for artist will be from 11:00- 9:30 pm daily except Friday.
 
August 9, Friday 1-9:30 pm-Jeff Griswold and Laney Hughes - mixed
medium

August 10,Saturday -Mary Jo Stilwell- alcohol inks

Jill Parris- painting
 
August 11, Sunday -Sherry Chandler- ceramic/acrylics

Shirley Wenning- painting
 
August 12, Monday -Jane Dippold-collage/painting

Marilyn Stall-quilted art

August 13, Tuesday -Ray Feltz and Bob Hart- wood turning at 1,3, and 5
pm

August 14, Wednesday -Sonnie Bernardi-card making

August 15, Thursday -Grand Lake Photo Club, variety of artists and

photographers

2019 Citizen’s Academy
Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today that his office will be hosting a Citizen Academy in October - November of 2019.  The purpose of the academy is to give residents of Mercer County the opportunity to see an overview of Sheriff’s Office, and how it differs from other law enforcement agencies. 

This will be the sixth citizen’s academy for the Sheriff’s Office.  The first Mercer County Citizen’s Academy was hosted in 2013 and culminated in the graduation of (11) students.  We have had (75) students graduate from the academy since it was established.  The classes have consisted of citizens from different backgrounds, age groups, and geographical areas of Mercer County.  The participants attend classes that are classroom based, observe demonstrations, take tours of the facilities, and participate in hands on training sessions.  They are also provided with an opportunity to “job shadow” with staff members.

The 2019 academy will take place from October 22, 2019 until November 14, 2019, and will usually be held two evenings per week for a four week period.  The classes will begin at 6 p.m. and will last for 2-3 hours per session.

The academy is open to residents of Mercer County, who are at least 21 year old.   A background check is required.  Class size is limit.  Interested persons can stop at the Sheriff’s Office during office hours or go to our website at www.mercercountysheriff.org to obtain an application packet.  Completed applications need to be returned to the Sheriff’s Office by September 24, 2019.  If anyone has any questions they may contact Citizen’s Academy Coordinator, Sergeant Jay Wehrkamp, at (419) 586-7724.

 
August 1-3, 2019
 

Parkway High School Students to Pick up Schedules
Parkway High School students may pick up their final class schedule beginning Monday, August 5 from 9:00 to 3:00 and continuing every weekday through Friday, August 16. Students wishing to request a schedule change must complete a Course Schedule Change Form which is available in the high school office. Book fees will be assigned after Labor Day when all class changes have been completed. 

Parking Permits will also be available beginning Monday, August 5 from 9:00 to 3:00 with the following schedule:

Monday, Aug 5 -- Seniors only

Tuesday, Aug 6 -- Juniors and Seniors

Wednesday, Aug 7 -- Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors

Thursday, Aug 8 through Friday, Aug 16 (weekdays only) -- Any eligible students

Students planning to drive to school on the first day of school must purchase a parking permit. This includes students who are attending Vantage Career Center and are parking their vehicle at Parkway during the school day. Students must have a valid driver's license and may pick their spot on a first come, first served basis. Parking Permit applications must be completed, signed by a parent and have the $15 fee accompany the application before a permit can be issued. Applications are available online on One View and in the High School Office.  

Rockford Carnegie Library Summer Reading Program Concludes

I hope everyone enjoyed the Summer Reading Program. What a turnout for our last hurrah! Roughly 150 people and one VERY large CAT!!!

I want to thank all the parents/guardians/caregivers that took time out of their day to shuttle the kids to library programming. “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go.” – Dr. Seuss

A BIG thanks to the following:

Shanes Park, Community Building

New Horizon Community Church – Meal Co-host

Adams Entertainment and Photography – The Cat in the Hat

We received coupons for all our little readers from the following businesses: Subway, Auglaize-Mercer Family YMCA, Bryson Pool (Celina), The Mercer County Fair, Neil Armstrong Museum, Monfort/Vorhees McDonalds, The Ohio State Fair, and The Ohio Renaissance Festival.

Library Staff, Miss Rachel Powell, and Olivia Scott

***Prizes are available at the library. Stop in to see if you won or check the complete list on Facebook. If you missed the party stop in to get your coupons and 2 FREE Books.***

Prayer Walk for Parkway Schools

Rockford United Methodist Church has planned the annual Prayer Walk for Parkway Schools. It is scheduled for Saturday, August 17 at 8:30 AM. Walk begins at the Parkway High School entrance. Everyone is invited to come and pray for our schools, staff and students.

Refuse To Be A Victim - Free Program

Do you have a child going off to college? Are you wanting the knowledge to defend yourself? Come listen to Prepare Awareness, to help you think outside the box, outside your surroundings. Things to think about when living outside Mercer County but also things to think about anywhere. Presented by Shelly Moorman from Arrow N Bows. NRA Refuse to Be a Victim certified Instructor / A.L.I.C.E Certified Instructor. Learn some hand maneuvers to give you a fighting chance. Palm to the nose shown by a 79 yr old. How you can strike back? FREE Program on August 6, at 6:30 at the Rockford Carnegie Library. All Ages Welcome. 

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

 
July 23-31, 2019
 

The 6 man team from WE Construction out of Piketon, OH recently finished erecting the new aluminum Panther Home Team stadium bleachers contracted out several months ago to Dant Corporation by Parkway School Board members.

Ed Alexander of WE explained that they assemble a set-up like this in about 2 weeks time. His team has done many bleacher set-ups for Dant Corporation. Everything comes pre-cut in packages ready to assemble. At the time of the pictures below by Todd Henkle, on Wednesday, July 24, 2019, they had a crane scheduled to lift the press box which was pre-made, with 2 filming decks, and angled windows to easily watch the action on the football field.

Click on thumbnail pictures below to enlarge.

Rockford UM Church Social Room
202 South Franklin St.
Rockford, OH 45882 

Coldwater 5K

The 26st annual Buzzard’s Glory 5K run/walk is set for August 3nd 2019 at 8:30 in Coldwater at Cavalier Stadium.

The chip timed 5K run/walk begins and ends at the stadium with registration from 7:00 to 8:00.  Pre-registration w/dry-fit tech shirt is $24 and  race day registration is $18 without shirt.  They will also host the Little Foot  ½ mile and 1 mile run.  Registration is available on line at www.speedy-feet.com until August 1.

New to this year’s race,  all runners 14 and younger will run for free.

Door prizes and awards will be given at the park after the race.

100% of all proceeds go to Coldwater Memorial Park and Coldwater Library.

This is the seventh of eight races in the Mercer Health 5K Challenge running series.

Results are available online at www.mercerhealth5kchallenge.com   and www.speedy-feet.com

Call Innergy Fitness at 419-763-1111 with any questions.

Parkway Back to School Night Planned on Tuesday, August 13
by Michelle Tribolet
Parkway Local Schools will be holding their annual Back to School Night on Tuesday, August 13 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. This evening serves as an open house for parents and students in Preschool - 12 to visit their classroom, meet their teachers and bring their supplies to school. There will be no Back to School packets mailed this year as we have converted to online forms. Parents may now update their childrens' back to school forms online   All forms must be completed online by September 2.  Computers are available at school in each office, if needed.  Mrs. Pam Smith, Cafeteria Supervisor, will be available to add money to students' lunch accounts. That evening, bus drivers will also be available.   Elementary School - Students in grades K-4 who are new to the school district are asked to meet in the Elementary Gym at 6:30 p.m.  Middle School - 5th Grade and New Student Orientation - Learn everything you need to know about the middle school from 6:45-7:30 in the Auditorium.  You may visit your classrooms and meet your teacher before or after orientation.  This night will also be the last time you may make any bussing changes until August 27. Parkway Local Schools first day is Monday, August 19.

VAN WERT COUNTY FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES 2019-2020 BOARD OF TRUSTEES
 

The Van Wert County Foundation’s Board of Trustees honored two retiring long-time trustees and welcomed two new board members at their Annual Meeting in June.

Mike Cross retired from the Board of Trustees. Mr. Cross was elected to the board in 1998, served as a member of the board for 21 years. “We are grateful for his commitment to The Foundation and to our community. During his time on the board, Mike oversaw various committees, served as President of the Board from 2005-2007, and represented The Foundation on the Wassenberg Art Center Board, shared Seth Baker, VWCF Executive Secretary.

Paul Svabik also retired from the Board of Trustees. Mr. Svabik served as a member of the board for 10 years. “During his time on the board, Paul served as President from 2016-2018, served on various committees, and helped to forge The Foundation we know today”, continued Baker.

Newly-elected trustee, Cindy Hurless, is the Chief Operating Officer of the Central Insurance Companies.  She and her husband Mark have six children and three grandchildren. She is a member of Life House Church and Van Wert Rotary.  She and her husband are involved in a variety of community outreach activities. They enjoy gardening, cooking, sports, and travel.  She also serves on the YWCA Board and NPAC Board.

Tom Burenga, was also elected to the Board. Burenga is the CEO of Kenn-Feld Group LLC, an eight location John Deere dealer with locations in Northwest Ohio and Northeast Indiana. He and his wife, Julie, have two daughters - Jamie, age 16, and Mandy, age 12. In his free time, Tom enjoys growing a garden and canning salsa each summer. He also likes growing hot peppers and creating things from them.  He currently serves as a trustee for First United Methodist Church in Van Wert. 

“We are excited to install Cindy and Tom as trustees.  Both are a great fit to carry out the mission of our organization – Transforming quality of life by fulfilling purposeful endowments, inspiring collective growth, and building initiatives for the future. I look forward to working with them on committees and upcoming projects”, stated Andy Czajkowski, Board President. 

Board of Trustee members for 2019-2020 listed below:

 

Andy Czajkowski, President

Chuck Koch, Vice President

Gary Clay, Secretary

Tom Burenga

Larry Greve

Cindy Hurless

Bruce Kennedy

Thad Lichtensteiger

Randy Myers

Bill Purmort

Brian Renner

Gary Taylor

Mark White

Eva Yarger

Mike Zedaker

Portion of Tama Road Closed to Reconstruct Road
The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is announcing a road closure on Tama Road between SR 49 and Wabash Road in Liberty Township for a bridge replacement and roadway approach reconstruction.  This road will be closed on July 23, 2019 and is scheduled to reopen by or before October 31, 2019, depending on the weather conditions.

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

You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown opens August 2 at VWCT

All are invited to come experience the very best of our area youth. Van Wert Civic Theatre is proud to present You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown on August 2 and 3 at 7:30 p.m. and August 4 at 2 p.m. Not only does this classic musical featuring the Peanuts gang have actors who are high school and college age but is also directed and produced by the same age group.

In 2018 Griffen Waltmire, director of the show, approached the VWCT Board with the idea of directing and producing a summer musical for high school and college age youth. After much discussion, VWCT agreed to support the project and mentor the young people involved with the production. To support the financial commitment to the project, VWCT applied for and received an Ohio Arts Council grant. The grant review committee was most impressed with “the idea to provide mentoring and other opportunities for young directors” while “creating a pipeline for training young people while also creating new and future supporters of the theatre arts.”

The show is ready, and now all these young people need is an audience. Tickets are $10 and go on sale now from 2-6 p.m. at 419-238-9689 or anytime online at vwct.org.

The directing team consists of Griffen Waltmire, director; Dee Fisher, music director, and Dane Litchfield, choreographer. The cast includes Cooper Adams as Charlie Brown, Olivia Kentner as Sally Brown, Anna Reichert as Lucy van Pelt, Connor Johnson as Linus van Pelt, Austin Sheets as Schroeder, Justin Etter as Snoopy, Alyssa Taylor as Peppermint Patty, Emily Gehle as Marcie, Gracie Morgan as Frieda, Becky Rigdon as theLittle Red Headed Girl, and Gabby Thomas and Brooke Tigner as Woodstock.

 
July 18 - 22, 2019
 

Concert In The Park

On Friday July 26th, the Van Wert Area Community Concert Band will present a concert in the band shell of Fountain Park in Van Wert, Ohio. The performance will begin at 7:00 p.m. and is free to the public.  Music to be performed will include a tribute in celebration of the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11 and Neil Armstrong’s first steps on the moon.  “Sea of Tranquility” by David Shaffer was composed to catch the excitement and exhilaration of that moment. Also featured on the concert will be sophomore trumpet player Una VanWynsberghe of Lincolnview High School playing Leroy Anderson’s “Trumpeters Lullaby”, an original composition by band member Chip Steffey “Prairie Fire Overture ”, Theme from “The Jetsons and “National Fencibles by John Philip Sousa.

 A food stand will be available prior to the concert provided by the District Eastern Star starting at 5:00PM.  Please join the band directed by Richard Sherrick and featuring members from, Van Wert, Glenmore, Delphos, Convoy, Chat, Middle Point, Coldwater, and Rockford. In the event of inclement weather, the program will be moved to an announced location or cancelled. Please listen to the local radio station for this information.

The new Pressbox came ready built. Notice the slanted windows for better viewing of the Parkway Panther Football Field.

Clever Clovers 4-H Club News
by Noah Krites

The final meeting for the Clever Clovers 4-H club was on July 15, 2019 with 11 members present and 3 guest parents. The pledges were led by Noah Krites and Lindsay Hatcher. Roll call was taken by writing your name on a piece of paper. The treasurer's report was given by Kayla Krites. Then, demonstrations were given. Grace Linton showed how to make a delicious chip sauce. A demonstration was given on how to make a fruit salad. Another demonstration was given on how to make a whole wheat waffle. Fair judgings will be held on Thursday, July 15, 2019 at the Van Wert Middle School.  All 4-H members should have already signed up online for their judging times.  

The Clever Clovers 4-H Club met on July 1, 2019 with 15 members present and 4 guest parents. The pledges were led by Josie Miller and Leah Krites. Roll call was taken by writing your name on a piece of paper. The Health and Safety report was given by Lizzie Spath and she showed what is inside a first aid kit. Demonstrations were given. Josie Miller showed everyone how to do a crumb layer for a cake. Then, Grace Linton showed how to use the persuasive form of writing called OREO, the O stands for opinion, the R stands for reason, the E stands for example and the last O stands for repeating your opinion. Lizzie Spath showed everyone how to make a fruit parfait. Alli Spieles showed everyone how to make a color wheel out of felt. Several other members gave their demonstration as well. The next meeting will be Monday, July 15 from 6:30-7:30 at the VWMS Healthy choices room. This meeting will be in preparation for 4-H judging.

The Clever Clovers 4-H Club met on June 17, 2019 with 12 members present and 5 guest parents. The night's meeting was about sustainable forms of energy in Van Wert County. First, we visited the Vantage Career Center solar field. The solar field covers about 5 acres of land and always face south to maximize the amount of sun the panels get. They provide Vantage with significant amounts of energy. We then traveled to a rest area between Van Wert and Convoy to look at information there about wind turbines. Finally, we went to a wind turbine at Blue Creek Wind Farm. Mrs. Sarah Moser provided us with information about the wind turbines. To climb up you have to climb 353 feet of ladder. It is 455 feet to the top of a blade pointing straight up. The box of the wind turbine is the size of a Fed-X truck. Wind turbines are separated for more wind power. The next meeting will be Monday, July 1 from 6:30-7:30 at the VWMS Healthy Choices room

Respectfully Submitted by

Noah Krites

Clever Clovers News Reporter

ATV Accident
Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports his office is investigating an incident that occurred at the residence of 7515 Burrville Road, Celina.  Mercer County Central Dispatch received the call at 5:24 PM on Tuesday, July 16.

Carla Baucher, an off-duty Mercer County deputy sheriff, age 28, was giving her two children a ride on a Polaris Ranger ATV on the property of the residence.  Baucher’s 2 ½ year old son attempted to exit the ATV and fell onto the accelerator.  The ATV then struck 73 year old Mary J. Stachler and crashed into the garage area of the residence.  Mrs. Stachler, who lives at the residence, is Baucher’s husband’s aunt.  Baucher and her son sustained minor injuries but were not treated.

Mrs. Stachler was transported to Mercer Health by the Celina branch of the Mercer County EMS and later transfer to Miami Valley Hospital.

Once the investigation is complete, it will be forwarded to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office for review.

Complete race results can be found at: http://www.mercerhealth5kchallenge.com

See pictures at the link below:

https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=mercer health 5k challenge ohio&epa=SEARCH_BOX
 

Parkway student athletes placing the top 3 in their age groups were Aaron Bruns 1st, and Riley Samples 2nd in the Men’s 15-19, Xavier Samples 2nd, and Trent Rollins 3rd in the men’s 14 and under, Alexis Berry 3rd in the women’s 14 and under.
Winning the Half Mile Fun Run this year was Amanda Barrett, followed by Helana Sinning, Noah Sutter, Janelle Dameron, Emma Jauregui, Kendra Dameron, Kara Fullenkamp, Stella Sinning, Holden Hays, Evynn Luth, Emma Sutter, Jesse Luth, and Kade Minnich.
Remaining Mercer Health 5k Challenge Races:
July 20th St. Clair
July 27th Lake Festival
Aug 3rd Buzzards Glory
Aug 10th Burkett

The Parkway Cross Country Program would like to thank the following businesses and organizations for their donations and support of the Shane’s Crossing 5K.
Parkway Athletic Boosters
Rockford Fire Department
Shane’s Park Board
Barry's Market
Rockford Carryout
First Financial Bank
Subway – Rockford
TJ’s RoadDog
Taste Twirl
Dannon Yogurt
Mercer Health
Wabash Communications
Innergy Fitness
Independent Capital Management
Cooper Farms
Grand Lake Marathon
People’s Bank

 

CHIP & SEAL SEASON

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

We would like to request that yard mowing not be blown onto the county and township roads.  Doing so creates additional prep work to get the roads ready for chip and seal and slows the whole operation down.

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.

 
July 13-18, 2019
 

Parkway Class of 1964 Celebrates Reunion in 2019
by Rob Van Fleet

The Parkway graduating class of 1964 held its 55th class reunion at the Shanes Park Community Center in Rockford on Saturday, June 29, 2019. Twenty-four classmates and their partners met for renewing friendships and sharing life stories and memories of our experiences at Parkway – oh so long ago!!

We all had special thoughts for those classmates and teachers who are no longer with us except in memory, and this year we especially felt the loss of a great teacher and mentor, Boyd Granger.

After being welcomed by event organizers Marie (Shaffer) Obrock and Linda

(Shindeldecker) Huffman (photo left) the microphone was passed for all to relate their life experiences and their memories of our school days at Parkway.

A new set of planners volunteered to organize our next reunion to be held in the summer of 2022. Special effort will be made to reach out to those classmates who were not able to attend this reunion and those whom we haven't seen since our graduation in 1964.

Pictured in the group photo above:

Front row - Marie (Shaffer) Obrock, Sandra (Snyder) Shaffner, Connie (Davis) Conn, Linda (Shindeldecker) Huffman, Charlene Hawk, Yvonne (Beeks) Farmer

Middle row - Les Shinnerer, Elaine (Lugabihl) Sullinger, Melina (August) Agler, Janet (Fleming) Emans, Virginia (Hoffman) Fickert, Barry Copeland, Johnny Provci, Ned Pryer, Jerry Schaadt
 
Back row - Forest Yocum, Gary Eichler, Barbara (Snyder) Kogerman, Rose Mary (Binkley) Lampton, Nancy (Wendell) Bevington, Rob Van Fleet, Robert Haver, Danny Huffman,  Rollie Miller

Not shown: Gary Bayles

Ohio City Completes Trail Bench Project with Cub Scouts of Rockford #98

Approximately two years ago, the Ohio City Warrior Trail committee decided to start a project that would provide the trail with benches that would be paid for by collecting bottle caps. Since this was a youth program they contacted Ben Reigle and the Cub Scouts of Rockford #98 to assist. The Cub Scouts collected enough caps for five benches. Each bench took 1250 caps and some expenses. Ohio City American Legion # 346 covered the expenses. The Ohio City Warrior Trail Committee paid for the labor, transportation, placement, and the plates. 

Pictured above (front to back) First Row: Harvey McMillen, Levon Fox, Wyatt Pancake, Peyton Muhlenkamp Second Row: Jaime Delgado, Gary Profit, Brenda Weaver, Ben Reigle, Larry Krugh Last Row: Steve Anderson, Greg Bruns, Don Walker, Dan Amweg

Gymanfa (Welsh Festival of Song) Planned for September 1, 2019
Mark your calendar for Sunday September 1st for our annual Gymanfa (Welsh Festival of Song).  This marks our 104th year of honoring our Welsh heritage.  Our director this year is Christopher Uhl, who is originally from Van Wert and has been with us in the past.  This year he is joining with Paul Hoverman , also of Van Wert to put together a choir of 16-20 voices to entertain us for special music.  This should be a real treat.  Anyone interested in singing with this group should contact Paul at 419-513-0123.  Practices are being planned for August.  Our organist for the evening will be Connie Lloyd ONeill and on the piano will be David VanTilburg.

Fremont Canning Company, on Thursday, July 11, 2019, had the paving crew, Bowers Asphault,  from Walbridge, Ohio busy paving new driveway entrances to their $ 27 million expansion project at the plant in Rockford,, OH. Fremont Canning Company is nearing completion of a  warehouse expansion that will require special access from U.S. Route 33 on the east edge of Rockford. They are hiring approximately 70 people. 

The Mercer County Commissioners have hired VTF Excavation to do the new turn lane roadway work on U.S. 33 to accommodate the new $27 million expansion of Fremont Company in Rockford, and they were busy on the same day working on that turn lane.

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

Our Old Bookcase, July 18, 2019,  Mercer Co. Courthouse 75th Anniversary Planning Committee, 1995-1998

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

Photo Caption:  Members of the Mercer County Courthouse 75th Anniversary Committee in 1998:

1st Row:  Janet Gels, Kip Wright; 2nd Row:  Anita Huber, Jason Kaiser, Donna Grube, Ken Rosengarten; 3rd Row:  Nancy Desch, Mary Toms, Sue Heiser; 4th Row:  Joyce Alig, Betty Dilworth; Back Row:  Bill Dilworth, Jim Chittum, Damian Dorsten, Jeffrey Ingraham, and Mark Giesige.  Absent, Gene Weber.  Photographer:  Frank Zoretich, The Daily Standard, Celina, Ohio.

OUR OLD BOOK CASE

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

William Kincaid, The Daily Standard, introduced the subject of the 75th Anniversary Celebration of the Mercer County Courthouse, and the preparation for the 100th Anniversary of the Courthouse in 2023.  I took the following information from the introduction to the book, “Mercer County’s Courthouses, Celina, Ohio, 1824-1998,” which I wrote, under copyright, for this Celebration.

March 9, 1995, the Honorable Jeffrey Ingraham, Mercer County Historical Museum Director Joyce L. Alig, and the Mercer County Commissioners Ray Cron, Jerry Laffin and Ron Puthoff met at the Common Pleas Office to discuss the Mercer County Courthouse 75th Anniversary in 1998.  The following citizens were asked to serve as Officers:  Kip Wright and Janet Gels as Co-Chairpersons; Jason Kaiser, as Treasurer and Anita Huber as Secretary.  September 6, 1998 was chosen for the Rededication Ceremony. 

St. Henry Band and Director Rod Miller performed the John Phillip Sousa Concert.  The Honorable Jeffrey Ingraham invited the Ohio Supreme Court to meet at the Mercer County Courthouse.  The Mercer County Historical Society hosted a series of public lectures about the Courthouse.  Nancy Desch interviewed Senior Citizens who had attended the 1923 Courthouse Dedication.  An Anniversary Quilt was made and donated by Betty and Bill Dilworth.  Township Trustees made 75th Anniversary Wall Hangings.  A committee constructed an early 1900’s model train display.  A Juried Art Exhibit was planned.  Bruce and Sandy Dillon were commissioned to direct a historical pageant at Wright State University Lake Campus.  Gene Weber worked with Communications for Events.  Mercer County Auditor Mark Giesige planned Tours of the Mercer County Courthouse, with Mary Toms and several volunteers.  Damian Dorsten and Sue Heiser, WCSM and Donna Grube, WKKI, worked for publicity.   Commemorative items were prepared.  Ken Rosengarten worked with Schools for programs and  Time Capsule.  Jim Chittum, through Reynolds and Reynolds, donated stationery and Ceremony programs.

The Program for the September 6, 1998 Rededication Ceremony for the 75th Anniversary of the Mercer County Courthouse,  listed the Committee Members, the Speakers, the Offices located in the Courthouse, as well as comparisons of events in 1923 with 1998, e.g. population, budget, and other demographic data.  A Thank You was extended to the long list of people who made the Celebration possible. 

What about the people behind the scenes?  These are the volunteers who went quietly about their work.  Everyone who has ever planned a major event like this 75th Celebration knows very well, that without the Volunteers and the Citizens who attended the events, the Celebration would not have succeeded.  Mercer Countians and their friends and neighbors are fine people, as their ancestors have been fine people.  Without our Past, we would not be celebrating our successful present with positive plans for the future. 

I believe that everyone who served on this 75th Anniversary Committee for the Celebration for the Mercer County Courthouse, is proud to have been a part of this series of events.  Personally, I am proud that I wrote the book, “Mercer County’s Courthouses, Celina, Ohio, 1824-1998.”  The people, who use my local history book for their own publications, obviously like to study local history, also.

[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.]

 
July 11-12, 2019
 

Topping Off Ceremony Celebrated at Van Wert Health Hospital Expansion

Community members, officials and employees celebrated the Topping Off Beam Placing on Tuesday, July 8, 2019 at an early morning ceremony. Nearly 1000 people signed their names to the beam over the past several weeks. Some even wrote poignant remembrances of their beloved historical 60 year old hospital on the 32-foot steel beam.

The Topping Off Ceremony of the beam began with photographs at the beam  itself and then a welcome speech by President and CEO Jim Pope. “A journey of 1000 miles begins with a single step,” he said, as he thanked the many people involved in the project from planning in 2016 to the construction crew now at work in the building process.

In explaining the Topping off Ceremony, he mentioned that the Scandinavians, in the Dark Ages, when putting on their new roof top, put a tree on top to pay homage to the tree gods (they built their homes of trees) and a coat of arms flag to signify that the place belonged to them. The beam raised to the top layer of the Van Wert Expansion  building has the Evergreen Tree (which will be planted later on the grounds) and the United States Flag. See the picture.

The $46 million expansion project is the largest to date and will house state of the art in-patient rooms as well as new surgical facilities. It is being financed by hospital cash funds, bank financing and bonds (as it benefits the hospital financial picture). Pope said that preliminary research in 2016 showed renovation costs on the existing structure would run into the tens of millions of dollars and would still leave the community with an old building and without the ability to incorporate future needs so the board decided the only way to meet the needs of the community going forward was to go ahead and build a new campus.

According to Jim Pope CEO, the in-patient rooms will be family friendly with plenty of room for private doctor consultations as well as areas for families to gather with their loved one.  The patient beds and rooms will be state-of the-art in communicating with the doctors and nurses at all levels. There will be new acute care and intensive care unit rooms, and all new labor and delivery rooms and C-section suite. There will be private entrances/exits and canopies.

The surgical suites will be larger and tech advanced to provide for all of the new advances now and in the future. A larger and private surgery waiting area is also included. Even robotics were figured into the equation as the planning committee looked far into the future of the health needs here at home.

Left to Right: Jade Painter - Construction Coordinator; Mark Johnston - Project Manager; Jim Pope - President and CEO; and Curtis Zink - Site Supervisor.

Jim Pope with free t-shirts - Top 100 Hospital Award!

Construction on the Surgery and Inpatient Expansion Project began in September 2018 and has seen substantial progress over the past 10 months. “We’re energized about the progress thus far on the project and we are so happy to be celebrating this milestone with the entire community, and ultimately, celebrating the evolution of the project as we move into the next era of health care in our region,” shared Jim Pope, President and CEO of Van Wert Health.

Left to right: Dr. Jellinger and Radiology Staff

Reverend Demon Johnson provided the blessing after which the beam was raised by a large crane by the Weigand Construction team and placed onto the top of the expansion.

Later that day they began pouring concrete and by Fall 2019, the structure will be enclosed for inside finishing. The project will be completed in October 2020 when the current hospital will be anchored by a new two-story, 84,000 square-foot facility which will help further address the health care needs of residents and visitors in our area.

Parkway New Student Registration Days

Parkway Local Schools will be holding Registration Days on Tuesday, August 6 and Wednesday, August 7 from noon - 6:00 p.m. Only those students in K -12 who are new to the district need to register. Our registration process can now be completed online. Please call the appropriate office at 419-363-3045 for website information and to schedule a time to bring the necessary documents to the school to finalize the registration process on one of these two days.  Please note that all athletes need to be registered online before August 1.

Parkway School Board Agenda for Regular Meeting
by Sally Cox for July 16, 2019

Lee and Audrey (Linn) Schimmoller of Van Wert, OH, announce the birth of a daughter.
Everly Rochelle was born on Friday, June 28, 2019, at Van Wert Hospital at 9:43 PM.

She weighed in at 6 lbs. 15 oz. and measured 19 inches long. Grandparents are: Monte and Renee (Harding) Linn of Willshire; and Richard and Joyce Schimmoller of Venedocia. Great grandparents are: Judy Harding of Willshire; Duane and Pat Linn of Rockford; Don and Nancy Schimmoller of Venedocia; and Doc and Dorothy Miller of Venedocia.

"Evy" has been welcomed home by his sister Alyah age 11 and brother Blake age 4.

Click here for other births.

Celina Block Party Planned
A Taste of Celina Block Party and Car Show is scheduled for Friday, July 12, 2019 in downtown Celina.  The festivities begin at the corner of Main and Market Streets and go south to Warren Street.   From 5 -10pm, you will be able to taste the unique specialties of 16 different Celina restaurants and caterers.  Each restaurant will serve 3 or 4 different specialties.  Each food item will take between 1 and 4 tickets.  Presale tickets are on sale at the Celina Mercer County Chamber office located at 121 East Logan Street in Celina.  Tickets will also be on sale that evening at the Chamber Ticket Tent.  At the Chamber office, the first 2000 tickets will be sold at a buy 20 tickets and get 1 ticket free promotion. 

Plenty of tables and chairs will be set up in the street.  There will also be live entertainment provided. Several local establishments will be open after the event closes with special entertainment.  After eating, feel free to browse through the unique specialty shops.  Again this year at the south end of Main Street is the cruise in car show.

For more information, call the Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce at 419-586-2219.   Be sure to visit the Celina Mercer Chamber Facebook Page for  Taste of Celina menus and contests to win tickets!

Civic Theatre youth show opens next week

Each summer the Van Wert Civic Theatre provides performing opportunities for youth and theatre experiences for everyone in the family.  Next week, Little Red: Life in the Hood will open for a 3-performance run.  Shows are at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, July 19 and 20 and at 2 p.m. on Sunday, July 21.  All tickets are $10.  This show is suitable for all ages and runs about one hour.  Tickets go on sale July 15.  Call the box office at 419-238-9689 from 2 – 6 p.m. or go online to vwct.org to reserve tickets.  All tickets must be paid for at the time of reservation.

Director Monica Campbell has assembled a cast to bring to life this quirky retelling of the well-know story of Little Red, her grandma, and the wolf.  Little Red appears on a talk show to tell all to talk show host Telly Tellus but is rudely interrupted by Grandmother and the Wolf. It seems Red Riding Hood's version is nothing but a fairy tale! The Grandmother and the Wolf insist on equal airtime. Other fairy tale characters pop in to and to the excitement as the plot twists and turns through several different versions of the story.

Hannah Bouillon and Hatti Bouillon serve as assistant directors for Little Red: Life in the Hood while also appearing onstage.  Members of the cast include the following:   Olivia Anthony, Lauren Black, Jennifer Benson, Hatti Bouillon, Olivia Bloom, Bryanna Cole, Harmony Dillon, Kortnie Galloway , Beth Garrett, Addie Guyton, Kody Hamilton, Connor Johnson, Elizabeth Johnson, Sydney King, Landen Kramer, Ella Lamb, Evvy Lamb, Dante Lippi, Ivy Lippi, Hannah McKenzie, Abbie Mengerink,  Gracie Morgan, Danni Piske, Lizzie Spath, Gabby Thomas, Kordane Thomas, Brooke Tigner, and Kennadie Vizuete.

The final youth show of our summer season, You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown, opens August 2.  Tickets go on sale July 29.  This full-scale musical production features high school and college age youth.  More information about this cast will be released soon.

 
July 8-10, 2019
 

The 6 man team from WE Construction out of Piketon, OH are busy this week of July 7-July18 are busy assembling and erecting the new aluminum Panther Home Team stadium bleachers contracted out several months ago to Dant Corporation by Parkway School Board members.

Ed Alexander of WE explained that they assemble a set-up like this in about 2 weeks time. His team has done many bleacher set-ups for Dant Corporation. Everything comes pre-cut in packages ready to assemble. All parts including bolts come together. At the time of the pictures on Tuesday, July 9, 2019, they were working on the lower deck for handicapped accessible seating complete with a ramp. But as the week progresses, more and more sections will be added until the full 15 rows are completed.

The press box will come this week, pre-made, with 2 filming decks, and angled windows to easily watch the action on the football field.

Ice Cream Social
St. John Lutheran Church, Hopewell Township, will be having an Ice Cream Social on Thursday, July 18 from 4:30 - 7:00 p.m in their air conditioned parish hall.  On the menu will be homemade sandwiches, pies, cakes as well as homemade ice cream.  A free will donation will accepted to benefit the Celina Disaster Relief efforts.  The church is located at the corner of State Route 118 and Oregon Road.  Hope you are able to join us!!

The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office will be hosting Active Shooter Training on July 11 & July 12, 2019

The training will be presented by the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office in conjunction with the Coldwater PD, and will be held at the Coldwater Middle School.

We have scheduled two separate (8) hour training days.  Each day will have the same training so that departments can send half of their personnel the first day and the other half the next day.  The Sheriff’s Office is covering the cost of providing the training. 

There will be a short classroom portion of the training that will be followed up with hands on roll playing scenarios involving intruders and victims.  We will be utilizing the use of “air soft” guns to help simulate “Force” on “Force” training.

This will be the 5th year for the Sheriff’s Office hosting an Active Shooter Training session in Mercer County.  We have had (49) students sign up to attend the class from most of the Law Enforcement agencies in Mercer County.

We have been moving the training throughout the county.  We have had training at Marion Locals Schools, Ft. Recovery Schools, Parkway Local Schools, and St. Henry Schools in the past.  Our hope is to allow all of the officers from Mercer County to attend training in each of the School Districts so that they get an idea of the general lay outs of the buildings that they may be asked to respond to one day.

We hope that we never have to use the training, but want to be as prepared as possible if we do.

The public may notice an increased police presence in the area of the Coldwater Schools.  There will be a large amount of officers in and around the school.  The area will be posted with training warning notices and areas of the building will be closed off to the public.

We wish to thank the Coldwater PD and the Coldwater Exempted Village Schools for their assistance in providing this very important training opportunity.

Jeff Grey

Sheriff

 
July 1-7, 2019
Happy Independence Day!
 

In 2019, the Old Fashioned Farmers will host the 43nd Annual Van Wert County Old Fashioned Farmers Days, from July 4-6, 2109, at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds, U.S. Rt. 127 South, at Van Wert.  The feature tractors are Case Tractors, Equipment, and Hit & Miss Engines.  All Brands are welcome.  Attractions include Antique Tractors & Machinery, Parts Swap & Sell Area, Quilt & Needle Art Show, Threshing, Gas Engines, Sawmill, Jr. and Powder Puff Pull, Car Show, Antique Tractor Pull, Trading Post, Crafts & Flea Market, Garden Tractor Display, Truck Display, Food Vendors, Animal Land, Free Barrel Rides, Kids & Adult Pedal Tractor Pull, Barney Fife Look A-like, Tractor Games, Chain Saw Sculpturing, Tug-A-Truck.  Music, Contests & Prizes!  Camping is available.
Visit the Website.  http://www.oldfashionedfarmersdays.com See the ad above!

 
June 28-30, 2019

 

For more information or a registration form, visit www.mercerhealth5kchallenge.com.

Mail completed entry form and check to Steve Fisher, 3953 Purdy Rd., Rockford, OH. 45882. For additional information call: Steve Fisher, 419-308-2080 or email: sfisher@jtdmh.org.

 
June 26-27, 2019
 

Church Members Honor Member/Family Veterans and All Veterans
Donation Made to the Rockford Veterans Memorial

Members of the St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, on Sunday, June 23, 2019, donated money to the Rockford Veterans Memorial Fund. Donations came from members as well as the Consistory and the Women’s Guild and were presented in honor/memory of their church members/family who are and were Veterans and for all Veterans who served. The Rockford American Legion Post 508 and the Rockford Bicentennial Committee appreciate this generous donation. 

Seated front: Member Jerome Bollenbacher, Navy WWII. Pictured left to right second row Reed Shaffer – Army Reserve, Terry Joseph - Army, and Lowell Warthman – Navy Submarine - who are trustees of the Legion accepting the money, members: Duane Linn – Marines, and Dennis Laffin - Army; Back row left to right: members Marvin Schaadt – Army National Guard,   Jerry Bollenbacher - Army, Jerry Schaadt – Marines, and Hugh (Gary) Deitsch - Army. Photo by Jerry Deitsch.

Letter to the Community - Updated

Dear Friends –
 
We would like to take this time to extent a heartfelt THANK YOU to those who have donated to the Rockford Veterans Memorial!   Since May 2019, we have raised a total of $28,116 of the $125,000 needed to complete the project. 
 
 The Veterans Memorial will be located beside the American Legion and is located on State Route 33 in Rockford.  This memorial will be seen not only by the local community but by the many travelers passing by Hedges Park.  We believe this Veterans Memorial will be a benefit to our community.
 
 All around our county memorials stand to honor those who served in uniform and the battles they fought to protect our nation’s freedoms.   We need your financial help for this to become a reality in our community.   No donation is too small, it will take the entire community coming together to make this happen.  
 
Checks should be made out to the Leota Braun Foundation with “Post 508 Veterans Memorial” on the memo line.
 
Each donation will be tax deductible.   Mail to:  Leota Braun Foundation, PO Box 364, Rockford, Oh 45882.   We are still asking for donations.  The Veterans Memorial is to be dedicated at the May 2020 Memorial Day Service – Our Bicentennial Year. 
 
 Thank you for your time and consideration.   Please direct any questions to the
 Rockford Village Office at 419-363-3032 ext 1. 
 
 Reed Shaffer, American Legion Representative
 Jeff Long, Rockford Village Administrator / Bicentennial Coordinator
 Mike Schumm, VP of the Shanes Crossing Historical Society/ Bicentennial Coordinator.

 
June 24-25, 2019
 

Our Old Bookcase, June 27, 2019, Indian Relic Collectors’ Exhibit June 30, 2019

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

Photo Caption:  June 30, Indian Relic Collector’s Exhibit, Mercer Co. Historical Museum

Do you recognize the Mercer County Indian Relic Collectors who bring you the Prehistoric Artifact Exhibit every year, on the last Sunday of June?  Have you taken the time to thank them for their dedication to preserving the history of the Prehistoric Indians who lived in this area thousands of years ago?  Let me clarify the difference between Historic Events and Pre-Historic Events.  Historic Events are events which took place after people started writing down stories about events and/or people of that time period.  Prehistoric events were events which took place thousands of years ago, prior to the time period of people writing and recording events.

The Prehistoric Indians lived here thousands of years ago.  They began arriving in this area, after the last great Ice Age was receding, about ten to twelve thousand years ago.   The prehistoric people left evidence of their existence in this area; that evidence included flint arrowheads, slate gorgets, and granite tools.

The Historic Indians are familiar to you, with the Native American Tribes, identified as Ottawas, Shawnees, Wyandots and Seneca who signed the revised Fort Meigs Treaty of September 17, 1818.  In October 1818, the following Native American Tribes signed the St. Marys Treaty:  Potawatomie, Wea, Delaware, and Miami.  These Treaties followed the time period when the Native Americans had possession of the land here in Northwest Ohio, i.e. north of the 1795 Treaty Line, locally known as the Indian Trail, or along the Fort Recovery Minster Road.

The 39th Annual “Prehistoric Artifacts Exhibit” will be hosted by the Mercer County Indian Relic Collectors at the Mercer County Historical Museum lawn, at 130 East Market, (one block east of the Mercer County Courthouse), Celina, Ohio, Sunday afternoon, June 30, 1:00 – 4:00.

The public is invited to bring their personal pieces of flint arrow heads, granite hand axes, slate butterfly gorgets, and other pieces, and ask the “local experts,” to identify more information about their artifacts. 

The local collectors are able to identify the types of artifacts, as well as their approximate age and their use.  Many of these artifacts range in age from a thousand to several thousand years old.  The prehistoric people were in this area of Ohio following the Ice Age, as early as ten to twelve thousand years ago. 

Without the dedication of the Mercer County Indian Relic Collectors, perhaps, these artifacts which are thousands of years old, would have been lost.  Our Grandchildren might not have had the opportunity to see the creativity, the craftsmanship, and the beauty of these artifacts.  Our Grandchildren might not have had the opportunity to grasp the delicate work the prehistoric Indians achieved so long ago.  Will our Grandchildren be inspired to be creative and create works of art today?  Will our Grandchildren be inspired to create tools, which improve our life styles?  What have we learned in the past thousand years?  What have we learned in the past ten thousand years?  Were the prehistoric people, who lived here thousands of years ago, more competent in creating new tools than people today?  I ask you, would you be able to survive, living in the wilderness, and living off of the land, like these people did thousands of years ago?

This exhibit is not something for you to use to “pass your time on a Sunday afternoon.”  I challenge you to be inspired by visiting this Exhibit, and going home with new ideas crossing your thoughts in the future.  Encourage your children to share their ideas with you, not only about the past, but also about the future.  Young people have the most delightful ideas, which will impress you, as well as make you smile.  I look forward to seeing you Sunday afternoon, June 30, 1:00 – 4:00 at your Mercer County Historical Museum.  That is correct; this County Historical Museum is “YOUR MUSEUM,” owned by the County.

Norman Means, MD Announces His New Work Location
Norman Means, MD of Rockford recently announced his new work location at
Bluffton, IN Bluffton Regional Medical Center - a Lutheran Health Network.

125 E. Cherry St., Bluffton, IN 46714
(260) 919-3470

Mercer Health 5K Challenge Series continues in St. Henry
The Redskin Classic 5K walk/run will be Sunday July 7th 2019 at 8:45 A.M. at St. Henry, Ohio.  This event is sponsored by P. T. Services with the proceeds to benefit community improvements and events.

New this year, all runners 14 and younger can participate for free in all challenge races.

This walk/run is part of the Mercer Health 5K Challenge Series.

The course will start and finish on Columbus St. near the high school.  Race day registration will be at the school for $15.00 (Race tshirt not included).

Mail completed form and check to: P.T. Services  452 Stachler Dr. St. Henry, Ohio 45883.  If you wish to receive race results, please visit www.mercerhealth5kchallenge.com .  For information call 419-678-4444.

For those who complete 6 of the 8 races will earn a Challenge T-shirt, and if you run all eight races you will earn Challenge running apparel.  Good running!

 
June 19-23, 2019
 

Willshire Days Coming
Visit Willshire Days, Annual Community Festival, on Friday through Sunday, June 28 through 30. There is a car show, crafters, inflatables, food, Princess pageant, talent show, beer tent, garage sales, petting zoo and so much more!

Miss Shay Bolton’s Senior Recital Planned on Sunday, June 30th at 3:00 PM – Everyone Invited

Miss Bolton is the daughter of Greg and Tabitha Bolton and graduated this past May with honors from Parkway High School. Shay has always enjoyed music. She has been taking piano lessons for 12 years and vocal lessons for 9 years. She is currently taking private lessons from David Van Tilburg of Celina. While in school she has participated in several musical performances, honor bands, and choruses.

Shay also participated in the State FFA chorus for 2 years and during her junior year auditioned and was selected to perform at The National FFA Convention along with 80 other FFA members from across the United States.  She also auditioned and was selected to participate in the OMEA District III Honors Choir for 2 years. Shay has been involved in many band activities that include marching band, 1st chair concert trumpet for four years and ASBDA Honors Band for 2 years.   

She has also participated in countless OMEA Solo and Ensembles. Shay was honored to receive The John Philip Sousa Award and also The National Chorus Award.

Shay will be performing several piano selections by Chopin, Bach & will also play a piano duo with her teacher, Mr. Van Tilburg from the composers Nielson & Young. Her vocal selections will include numbers from the classical and sacred world of music plus several from the Broadway stage by composers such as Pergolesi, Giordani, Conti, Guion, Meredith Willson & Andrew Lloyd Webber.

This fall, Miss Bolton will be attending Ohio Northern University in Ada majoring in music education.

First Presbyterian Church is located on the corner of Washington & Crawford Streets in Van Wert.  The recital is free and open to the public.

Plane Crash Kills Two

2 Killed in Plane Crash east of Gomer Sugar Creek Township – The Lima Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating an airplane crash that occurred in a field located southeast of the intersection of Tudor Rd. and Sandy Point Rd. On June 20, 2019 at approximately 4:42 P.M., troopers responded to a call of a plane in a field. Upon arrival, it was found that a 1981 Beech A36 Fixed Wind Single -Engine Airplane had crashed. The pilot and one passenger were pronounced dead on scene by Allen County Coroner’s Assistant, Jamie Sizemore. The names have not yet been released pending next of kin notification. Assisting on scene were troopers with the Van Wert Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Cairo-Monroe Fire and EMS, Allen County Coroner’s Office, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The crash remains under investigation.

Van Wert Civic Theatre Announces Auditions

Van Wert Civic Theatre is gearing up to present the next season of live theatre.  Director Christa Manning and Music Director Dee Fisher will be holding auditions for Assassins,  the first show of the 2019-2020 season, on Sunday, June 23 and Monday, June 24 at 7 p.m. Callbacks may be held after with a date and time to be determined.  Assassins, featuring the music of Stephen Sondheim, merges the stories of nine individuals who assassinated or attempted to assassinate United States presidents.  The show bends time and space to bring these characters together, revealing a dark side of the American experience.  In addition to the nine assassins, the show requires a chorus and other minor roles. 

The directors ask that those auditioning to familiarize themselves with the characters in the show and music in the show. Please prepare a 90 second vocal selection which demonstrates you range or ability. Accompaniment will be provided. Those auditioning are encouraged to be creative. These roles are demanding, and the directors need to see what you are capable of doing.  Visit vwct.org for a link to the casting requirements including vocal ranges of the characters. 

Musical rehearsals will take place during July as schedules allow with full rehearsals beginning in August. Show dates for Assassins are September 26, 27, 28, 29 and October 3, 4, 5, 6, 2019.

The Parkway Local Schools July board of education meeting has been rescheduled for Tuesday, July 16, 2019 at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room.

Culvert to be Replaced

The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart has closed Township Line Road between Fox Road and Watkins Road in Gibson/Granville Township for a culvert replacement.  This road is scheduled to reopen in approximately 2 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

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

SHARPSBURG ROAD IMPROVEMENTS BETWEEN FLALER ROAD & FOX ROAD

Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart announced today, contingent upon weather conditions, Kahlig Dozing & Excavating, Inc. plan to start construction work Monday, June 3, 2019 on a 1 mile section of Sharpsburg Road centered on the intersection of St. Peter Road. The improvements will involve vertical road profile improvements, pavement and shoulder widening and resurfacing. The road will be closed to through traffic for up to 120 days and local access will be maintained. The completion deadline for the project is mid-fall 2019. 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

Beam Signing Marks Milestone in Van Wert Health Hospital Expansion 2019 Project

Van Wert, OH –All area community members are invited to sign their name on a 32-foot beam that will be used in the construction of the Van Wert Health Expansion Project. The beam signing events mark a significant milestone in the largest expansion project for Van Wert Health, which has provided health care services to Van Wert and the surrounding communities for nearly 115 years. Community members, physicians, hospital employees, and volunteers are all invited to sign the beam during any of the designated dates and times.

Guests should enter the Van Wert Health Main Campus (located at 1250 South Washington Street, Van Wert) and park near the large white tent, which will house the 32-foot beam to be signed.

Beam signing dates will be: June 20, 21, 22, and 23 and June 27, 28, 29, and 30, 2019 from 12:00-2:00 PM and 5:00 to 7:00 PM each day. Construction on the Surgery and Inpatient Expansion Project begin in September 2018 and has seen substantial progress over the past 9 months. “We’re energized about the progress thus far on the project and we look forward to celebrating this milestone with the entire community, and ultimately, celebrating the evolution of the project as we move into the next era of health care in our region,” shared Jim Pope, President and CEO of Van Wert Health. When complete, the current hospital will be anchored by a new two-story, 84,000 square-foot facility which will help further address the health care needs of residents and visitors in our area.

Highlights of the expansion project include a state-of-the-art surgical suites, surgery waiting area, all new acute care and intensive care unit rooms, and all new labor and delivery rooms and C-section suite.

Van Wert Health is also hosting a Pretend Play Hospital for children of all ages on Saturday, June 29.

Children and their parents are invited to the hospital any time between 9 AM and 2 PM where a special area will be converted into a land of make-believe where children can play dress up with child-sized scrubs and lab jackets; experiment with medical equipment like crutches, slings, bandages, and gauge; and enjoy play time with Van Wert Health doctors and nurse practitioners.

Business Enterprise Center at Wright State University-Lake Campus
June & July 2019 Class Schedule Line-Up

CELINA, OH – The Business Enterprise Center (BEC) at Wright State University–Lake Campus has announced a full slate of non-credit business classes for Summer Semester 2019! To access our full spring schedule go to: https://lake.wright.edu/connect/business-enterprise-center. Upcoming classes in June include the following workshops:

CONTACT INFO:     Must pre-register for each class. Call Carol Jones at 419-586-0902, or email Carol.jones@wright.edu, or follow us on Facebook: WSU-LakeHYPERLINK "https://www.facebook.com/pages/WSU-Lake-Campus-Business-Enterprise-Center/548195448562822"-Campus Business Enterprise Center.

“STARTING RIGHT” (Pre-Business Workshop Held Monthly)

This two-hour class provides you and your guest information to help you decide if business ownership is right for you and how to start your business the “Wright Way.” After attending this class, you are eligible for to free, individualized business counseling. Most issues such as business financials—cash flow, pricing, supply costs, record-keeping, etc., as well as Business Plan assistance, marketing and advertising, researching demographics, HR issues, etc.

We recommend all who considering starting or buying a business to attend one session.

MICROSOFT WORD FOR BUSINESS (openings still available!)

Learn the #1 document processing software! Discover MS Word’s unique features including various menu bars, inserting tables, charts, pictures, etc. Set tabs for a professional look or use columns to create your business newsletter. Learn to format your business correspondence to look and sound more professional including business letters, short memos, or long reports, etc. Set margins for different tasks, insert page numbers or use headers and footers. This class can help your documents look as professional as your business!

Dates: Monday/Wednesday June 24 & 26, 2019; Time: 5:30 to 8:30 pm {6 hours}; Room: 194 Dwyer Hall; Instructor: Carla Hirschfeld; Wright State University-Lake Campus; Cost: $90 p/person

EXCEL FOR BUSINESS

Microsoft Excel is widely recognized as the best spreadsheet software application for businesses. Through this short course series, you will learn how to create a spreadsheet, input necessary data, create charts and reports, and learn how to use Excel formulas in basic to complex computations. Join Carla as she delves into the world of references, formulas, and functions! Certificates of completion will be printed for all participants completing the total 15-hour workshop (all sessions).

Basic Workshop

Intermediate Workshop