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

Rockford Citizen of the Year Named for 2020
By Lisa Kuhn

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

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

The Grinch is Coming!

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

Rockford Area Development Corporation Cancels Meetings and Candy Cane Events

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

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

Calvary Evangelical Church Goes to On-line

 
November 12-16, 2020 
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

4. The black napkin represents the sorrow of captivity.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
November 11, 2020 
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To learn more about Rakkasan, go to rakkasanassociation.org

Click on smaller thumbnails below to enlarge the picture.

 
November 1-10, 2020 
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Van Wert Health to Honor Veterans with Drive-Thru Event

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Linn Couple Celebrating 65^th Wedding Anniversary

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

 
October 28-31, 2020 
 

Leota Braun Annual Harvest Banquet is Canceled for 2020

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

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

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

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

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


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

Deacon Tom Sanford Delivers Sermon

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

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

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

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

 
October 26-27, 2020  
 

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

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

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

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

Chicken Dinner Benefit Planned by Rockford Lions Club – November 7

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

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

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

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

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

By Jason Menchhofer

CELINA-

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

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

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

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

 
October 23-25, 2020 
 

Remember!
November 1, 2020 - Daylight Saving Time Ends

Local daylight savings time changes:

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

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

Also called Fall Back and Winter Time.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
October 21-22, 2020 
 

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

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

 
October 19-20, 2020 
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
October 16-18, 2020 
 

Celina area boy in need of liver transplant
By Amber Mustard 

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

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

Amber and Pete were told their son had a life-threatening disease called Biliary Atresia (BA), which is a rare liver disease impacting one in every 10,000 to 15,000 children. Children are born with this disease and doctors do not know, as of yet, what causes it to occur. After more ultrasounds and a biopsy, Colten underwent the Kasai procedure, which is sometimes a ‘surgical fix’ for BA babies and a way to postpone a liver transplant.  A few weeks later, he had a second surgery to correct a twisted bowel.

Colten’s surgery was considered a success. He only had a few inpatient hospital stays and annual check-ups with his liver team during his childhood. However, like in most cases, even when surgery is successful, patients will suffer gradual damage to the liver. Colten was diagnosed with hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) after a week-long hospital stay in May due to cholangitis. HPS affects the lungs of people with advanced liver disease. In September, Colten met with his Liver Team at Nationwide Children’s for a 2-day transplant evaluation. His team of doctors decided Colten should officially be listed on the UNOS (United Network for Organ Sharing) Active Liver Transplant List. 

A liver transplant social worker suggested community fundraising with the Children’s Organ Transplant Association (COTA). As the Mustard Family waits for ‘the call’ for a perfect liver, their family members teamed with COTA for Colten to raise funds for a lifetime of transplant-related expenses. COTA uniquely understands that parents who care for a child or young adult before, during and after a life-saving transplant have enough to deal with, so COTA’s model shifts the responsibility for fundraising to a community team of trained volunteers consisting of family and friends selected by the Mustard family.

Amber stated, “We are happy to be working together with COTA. They allowed us to choose some of our family members to head the fundraising, so it has really helped in releasing that worry because it’s people we know and trust. The funds will be available for a lifetime and Colten will have a long journey ahead even after transplant.” Colten’s Aunt, Alyssa Rutter, is organizing fundraising events such as bake sales, t-shirt sales and a videogame tourney. For more information, to make a donation, or to follow Colten’s transplant journey visit www.COTAforColten.com or the CaringforColten Facebook page. COTA is a 501(c)3 charity so contributions to COTA are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law, and COTA funds are available for a lifetime of transplant-related expenses.  

Trick or Treat will be from 5 - 7 pm on Saturday, October 31, 2020 with several trunk or treat
trails in the Village of Rockford. There will be no Costume Judging this year.

Calvary Evangelical Church Re-opens

St. Paul's UCC Women's Fellowship Members Donate to Kingdom Harvest Ministries
 
The Women's Fellowship at St. Paul's UCC on Oregon Road west of Rockford recently voted to donate $250 to Tom Sanford, director and teacher of Kingdom Harvest Ministries, located in Celina. Tom Sanford recently delivered a Sunday message at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ about “Total Submission” and then went on to explain the formation of Kingdom Harvest Ministries, a group of ministers looking to teach the word of God to children at Parkway and Celina School Systems. Parkway children are 4th grade through 12th grade and are dismissed to attend classes at New Horizons Church during their designated times. Celina’s high school students have the same opportunity at the old gymnastics center across from Celina High School. The KHM group felt led to this project, and Tom witnessed that total submission for him was to give up his public school teaching position and become the licensed teacher for KHM. Kingdom Harvest Ministries was recently recognized as first in the Nation in providing dual credit (High School & College) for their Parkway H.S. students attending ½ hour classes at New Horizons Church in Rockford during their regular school day.  God has blessed this program according to Tom. The Women’s Fellowship met recently, discussed this important program, and felt strongly that a donation was in order. Sheila Baltzell-Linn presented the check to Tom Sanford - see above.

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

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

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

Barn Quilt Tour Thank-You
A big thank you is sent out to all who participated In the Rockford Barn Quilt Bus Tour on Sept 19th.  

Thank you also to Prairiewood Primitives,  the Dandelion Schoolhouse and Vaughn Davis at the SchoolHouse Farms for
extending a warm welcome to all the shoppers.  

84 barn quilts were viewed on a beautiful Fall Day.  A wonderful lunch was served by Sondra Samples and Janet Riley.  

If you enjoyed the tour please tell your friends to watch the paper / Facebook next Spring when Deb and Barb will once
again take you on a tour of the countryside looking for Barn Quilts and bargains.

Van Wert Civic Theatre Launches “Save Our Stage” Campaign
Written by Deb Duncan-Faul

The cherished thespian battlecry "The Show Must Go On!" has been met with an unyielding foe this year - COVID. Theatres from Broadway and London's West End, to beloved community theatres continue to sit in silence with only the ghosts of past shows and applause to keep them company. But as relentless as this foe may be, and as unsettling as this is to the thousands of people who love and support live theatre, there still shines countless footlights of hope. Each and every person who has ever attended, helped, performed and supported a Van Wert Civic Theatre production can now take center stage for the greatest role of a lifetime - as a lifeline to keep the curtain rising on your local theatre through the "SOS, Save Our Stage" Campaign"!

When the pandemic struck, Van Wert Civic Theatre ceased all performances. Unfortunately, operating expenses needed to keep the theater viable and ready to go when it is safe to open up again, did not stop. Some of these expenses include mortgage payments, utilities, insurance, tax filings, and inspections to name a few. While cost-cutting measures have been taken, the truth is VWCT needs help to make sure the show will go on.

The goal is to raise enough money to cover expenses and prevent the theatre from being forced into a devastating financial situation as this pandemic continues. For those patrons who have held season tickets in the past, the theatre encourages you to donate the cost that would have been spent on season tickets toward the SOS Campaign. For everyone else, whether you’ve seen a show or not, you have a chance to play a huge part in the future of Van Wert Civic Theatre. 

Van Wert Civic Theatre thanks all who have already given to the SOS Campaign, and say "thank you" in advance to all who will make this valuable, tax-deductible contribution. Donations can be sent to Van Wert Civic Theatre, P.O. Box 823, Van Wert, OH 45891 or made online at VWCT.ORG.

As a final curtain call, those at Van Wert Civic Theatre say they miss the performances, the audiences, the volunteers, the actors and the crews. They ask that everyone stay safe and hope that once again, very soon, they will be able take a bow to your applause.

Remembering Our Heroes Through Music, Song & Spoken Word

Van Wert, OH—  — Area musicians will be performing in a community concert titled, “BETWEEN THE NOTES” Remembering Our Heroes Through Music, Song & Spoken Word which will be held in the sanctuary at First United Methodist Church of Van Wert on Saturday evening, November 7 at 7:00 PM.

This patriotic concert will include instrumental and vocal music that will pay tribute to our great nation and its veterans, active duty military, first responders, and even the heroes in our own personal lives.

The piano quartet of Marilyn Alessandrini, Annette Hoverman, Scott Turner & David Van Tilburg will be performing an exciting two piano & eight hand Mack Wilberg arrangement of “The Stars and Stripes Forever”. Also, Ms. Alessandrini, Mr. Turner & Mr. Van Tilburg will be performing organ and piano selections from composers Barber, Gottschalk, and Hayes.

Musical husband and wife team: Paul and Annette Hoverman, will join together to present the 9/11 inspired and very moving selection, “A Hymn for the Lost and the Living” for trumpet and piano by contemporary composer, Eric Ewazen.

Vocal selections from Adam Ries, Stacie Korte, Joel Trisel, and Sheila Chilcote-Collins will include the songs, “His Eye Is On The Sparrow”, “The Star Spangled Banner” and several other well-known selections.  Additionally, the ensemble, “in Spiritu” with Beth Conn, Melinda Farmer, Paula LaRue, Sandra Stemen, Kristina Welker, Ms. Korte & Ms. Collins will be presenting the popular hymn tune turned American folk song, “How Can I Keep From Singing” with Annette Hoverman accompanying the group.

David Van Tilburg will be at the keys as Ms. Chilcote-Collins and Mr. Trisel’s accompanist, Ms. Hoverman will be accompanying Ms. Korte, and Mr. Turner will serve as Mr. Ries’ accompanist.

Another musical husband and wife duo; Anthony and Marilyn Alessandrini, will be offering up a fun & funky trombone piece from contemporary composer, Jim Hopson. This number will be performed with Ms. Alessandrini joining her husband - not on the keys but on the cowbell! 

Ms. Chilcote-Collins stated, “I am very excited to share this concert with our community and to be able to join with these talented area musicians. It is also a chance for people to come out and enjoy live music once again in Van Wert.”

Please join us for a wonderful evening of music! This concert is free and open to the public. The First United Methodist Church is located on the corner of Jefferson and Central Streets in downtown Van Wert and practices all state mandated social distancing guidelines.

 
October 13-15, 2020 
 

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

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Pastor Doug Meyer to the pulpit on Sunday, October 11, 2020. His inspiring message, titled, “Whatever or Whatever it Takes,” included Biblical examples of the “whatever it takes” attitude. Pastor Doug shared that he once heard a motivational speaker say that people who shrug their shoulders and keep their heads down when asked to do something are the “whatever” people who don’t commit. By contrast, the “Whatever it takes people” lift their heads, look one right in the eye, and figure out what it is going to take to get the job done.

In the Gospel lesson of Mark 2:1-12, Pastor Doug told of Jesus healing the paralytic. While that was a great miracle, the determination of the friends of the paralytic shows a first class example of the “Whatever it Takes” attitude. Pastor Doug explained that the home in Capernaum was small and a large crowd had followed Jesus there. The four friends could not get the paralytic into the house because of all the people, and he was carried on a “stretcher”. But they did not shrug their shoulders and say “whatever”; they climbed to the earthen rooftop and dug a hole in it and lifted their friend down through the hole - on the stretcher – directly in front of Jesus. Because of their faith and determination to do ‘Whatever it takes”, their friend was healed by Jesus in a miracle. The paralytic rose, took up his stretcher and walked out of the house. The 4 friends are seen as the church in microcosm. Serving the Lord and bringing whatever it takes, we must be steadfast, true and bring others to Christ the Savior of the World just as the 4 friends did.

Pastor Doug  also served morning Holy Communion with the assistance of Dave Taylor. Disposable, individual communion chalices of wafer and juice was celebrated with 50 members.  Pastor Doug will be back in the pulpit on Sunday, November 22, 2020.

Celina Police Department Reports Truck in Pond Crash

On the evening of October 12, 2020 at about 9:30PM, 41 year old, Phillip Royce Andey, drove his 1999 Dodge pickup truck down a path in Westview Park at Fairground Rd., Celina.  He drove off of the path for an unknown reason and into the pond.  Andey was able to escape his truck and left on foot.  He reported the crash  a couple of hours later.

The crash remains under investigation.  Traffic charges will be forthcoming.

 
October 10-12, 2020 
 

Dane Bailey in Concert at St. Paul's United Church of Christ

You are invited to come hear, The Singing Auctioneer®, Dane Bailey at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH, Sunday, October 18, 2020 at 10 AM

In 1969 Dane felt a call to the ministry.  In 1975 Dane started seminary at Grace Theological Seminary, Winona Lake, IN and that fall did his first concert.  He has been traveling, ministering, and entertaining at churches, conferences, conventions, fairs, festivals, campgrounds, restaurants and banquets, as well as on radio and television ever since.  He also traveled with a gospel quartet for approximately four years.   In 2006, Dane was honored with an invitation to sing at the “Pageant of Peace,” an annual event held at the National Christmas Tree on the ellipse near the Whitehouse in Washington, DC.  

In 2001 Dane was able to take another step in his music career by stepping out as a full time singer-recording artist.  He now travels throughout the United States doing approximately one hundred concerts and averaging about 13,000 miles a year.  He has sixteen recordings and 2 live concert DVDs to his credit.  His music recordings are a mixture of music genre with most of them being Southern Gospel.  Believing that laughter lightens the heart, Dane released an all comedy project, “Laughin’ Time,” and with his traveling to our nation’s capitol for Christmas,   2006, released a project, “Live at Christmas.”   He has a big band project, a variety CD, and a Patriotic CD and DVD.  The list goes on “In The Garden,” “Amazing Grace,” and many others. His latest is a mixture of jazz and blue grass.   There is always something different to hear from beginning to end of his program.

Dane is a “real for sure auctioneer” and a growing part of his travels include auctioneering, entertaining, and emceeing for benefit functions.  He sells a lot of pies and cakes.  He was a real estate broker, and an instructor at the Reppert’s School of Auctioneering.  He was also a partner in Martin and Bailey Auction Realty in Fort Wayne, IN.

For more information on Dane, go to www.SingingAuctioneer.com.

Fatality reported in Mercer County – ATV Accident
Mercer County Sheriff, Jeff Grey reports that his office is investigating a fatal traffic crash that occurred on October the 9th, 2020.  Grey advised that his office received a 911 call at 11:55 PM advising of a crash that occurred on the Indiana – Ohio State Line Road just north of Fox Road in Gibson Township.   

Grey advised that the investigation found that 15 year old Jake D Muhlenkamp of 4516 N 700 E Portland, Indiana was operating a 2020 Polaris 570 4 Wheeler.  Muhlenkamp was northbound on State Line Road and for an unknown reason drove off of the right side of the roadway and struck a utility pole.  Muhlenkamp was ejected from the 4 wheeler.  Muhlenkamp was pronounced deceased by medical personnel at the scene. 

Assisting the Sheriff’s Office at the scene were members of the Fort Recovery Fire Department, St.Henry EMS and the Fort Recovery Police Department

 
October 8-9, 2020 
 

Democratic Rally
Democrats in Mercer Country will host a Joe Biden/Kamala Harris Meet up at 2pm, Oct the 10th in Rockford at Shanes Park. Speakers include Nick Robando US DISTRICT 5, Joe Monbeck OHIO 84, Don Holtvoigt COUNTY COMMISSIONER, Bob Maurer, and others. Signs, buttons, and stickers will be available. Masks are mandatory. Social distancing is encouraged. Chairs are welcome.

Crowd at Fall Homecoming Ceremony sees Senior, Claire Rutledge, crowned 2020 Fall Homecoming Queen

Parkway High School held their annual Fall Homecoming Ceremony on Friday, October 2, 2020, when they hosted the Minster Wildcats in football action. Senior, Claire Rutledge, was crowned 2020 Fall Homecoming Queen by last year's queen, McKenna Johnson. The court included left to right: Freshman Meg Henkle; Junior Gracyn Temple; Queen Claire Rutledge; Senior Sydney Waters; Senior Grace Etgen; and Sophomore Alyx Yoder. The theme of the game was camouflage in celebration of Military Appreciation Night. A big thank you goes to the school and community for their support!

Calvary Evangelical Church Re-opens

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

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

Stained Glass Artist from North Carolina Donates Beautiful Art of the Log Cabin in Rockford to the Historical Society

A stained glass creation of Anthony Shane’s log cabin has been donated to the Shanes Crossing Historical Society by Bob
Blackwell.  The actual log cabin is located at Shanes Park in Rockford, Ohio

This is the 2nd stained glass art that has been donated to the historical society.  The first piece was raffled off to benefit
the Rockford Bicentennial and the Carey, Bill, and Benny Scholarship fund.


The local connection -

Bob met Carey Fosnaugh of Willshire in Vietnam in 1969.  Carey was killed in action in January of 1970 in the Central
Highlands of Vietnam.    Bob made a vow that when he came back from his service, he would look up Carey’s friends and
family in rural Ohio.    Bob met Carol (Miller) Fosnaugh and they eventually got married.

Bob and Carol currently reside in North Carolina, but return to the area frequently to visit family and friends.    Bob calls
this creation his “Covid Creation” as he began the piece when the virus shutdowns occurred in the early spring.

Bob has made several stained glass pieces in the North Carolina area where he and his wife live.   Sometimes you can
find his artwork for sale in his local area crafts shops.  All proceeds for the stained glass creations benefit the Carey, Bill,
and Benny Scholarship Fund.

Thank you Bob for this generous gift ! You have an amazing talent !

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

By Kristy Frye

CELINA- As of October 7, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 1,166 confirmed cases, 111 probable cases, 1,038 recovered cases, 78 pending cases, 3,710 negative cases, 7 hospitalizations, 25 deaths, and 2 probable deaths of COVID-19. There have been 3 confirmed cases who have passed away due to causes other than COVID-19. Currently, there are 98 active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County.

The 21st Mercer County resident to die from COVID-19 was a 72-year-old male from Celina. The 22nd Mercer County resident to die from COVID-19 was a 97-year-old female from Coldwater. The 23rd Mercer County resident to die from COVID-19 was a 90-year-old female from Coldwater. The 24th Mercer County resident to die from COVID-19 was an 84-year-old male from Celina. The 25th Mercer County resident to die from COVID-19 was an 89-year old male from Celina. The MCHD staff would like to express our sympathy to their families and friends during their time of grief.

Record Number of Flu Vaccine Doses Distributed

by Kristy Frye 

CELINA- The Mercer County Health District (MCHD) is reporting 872 doses of vaccine were given at the annual flu shot drive-thru on Tuesday, October 6. This shatters the old record of 623 doses given in 2019.

The MCHD flu shot drive-thru was staffed by 63 individuals, which included employees of the MCHD, Mercer County Emergency Medical Services, Mercer County Emergency Management Agency, Mercer County Job & Family Services, Wright State Lake Campus Nursing students, Wright State Lake Campus Police Academy, Mercer County Medical Reserve Corps, and Mercer County Emergency Response Volunteers.

The MCHD is extremely pleased with the large turnout and we thank the individuals who took advantage of the convenience of the drive-thru clinic. We also want to thank all of the staff and volunteers who assisted us throughout the day.  “Our community partners and the numerous volunteers who show up each year to help us put on the drive-thru clinic are the key to the success of this event, as we would only be able to serve a fraction of the people with our staff of 18, no matter how dedicated they are.”, said MCHD Administrator Jason Menchhofer.

If you were unable to attend the drive-thru clinic, there are still opportunities to get the 2020 flu vaccine.

Tuesday, October 20: 9:30 AM – 5:15 PM: Walk-in at the MCHD.

Tuesday, November3: 9:30 AM – 5:15 PM: Walk-in at the MCHD.

If unable to make a walk-in clinic, call to make an appointment, 419-586-3251

ROCKFORD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND AREA BUSINESSES TO BRING FALL FEST TO THE COMMUNITY
by Lisa Kuhn
The Rockford Chamber of Commerce
has announced a Fall Fest will come to Main Street Rockford on October
31, 2020. During the quarantine, Rockford Ohio Chamber President Marie
Miller reached out to Main Street businesses with the idea to increase
visibility, awareness and foot traffic to retail locations. The Main
Street Rockford Event Planning Committee was formed and instantly got
to work to bring a Fall Fest to the community to coincide with the
trick-or-treat date. Working with local village officials and the
Mercer County Health Department, the committee is excited to
officially announce the plans for that day.
    
On October 31, 2020 starting at 10:00 am, community members are urged
to support local businesses by shopping at the local. Many retailers
will have specials going on that day. Other events include but are not
limited to, Make and Take Pumpkin Craft at the Library @ 10:00 am -
Sponsored by Homes at Ohio's Edge Realty, The Rockford Carnegie
Library and the Widows Group, Vendor Market along Main Street starting
@ 10:00 am, Halloween Hustle 5K Walk/Run @ 10:30 am - Sponsored by
Rock Solid Performance and Second Crossing, Chicken Dinners from the
Rockford Carryout, Burgers and treats at New Horizons Church, Live
Music at Second Crossing @ 12:00 pm, Rockford Pub Crawl (details
forthcoming), Axe Throwing (adults only) at Second Crossing starting
at 2:00 pm, Pre Trick-Or-Treat photo opportunities provided by Laura
Putman Photography starting at 3:30 pm and Live Music and Halloween
Party at Second Crossing starting at 7:00 pm.

Trick or Treat runs from 5-7 PM in Rockford.
    
Mask wearing and social distancing is recommended. Enforcement of the
state mandate is at the discretion of each business owner and is not
regulated by the Rockford Ohio Chamber of Commerce. Rockford Ohio
Chamber of Commerce events are attended at the risk of the attendee.
Rockford Ohio Chamber of Commerce is not liable for risk of exposure
to viruses. Please adhere to all state mandates and social distancing
recommendations.
    
Planning and launching an event during a global pandemic is not
without trials and tribulations. The Rockford Chamber would like to
thank all businesses and individuals who have been a part of launching
this event for their volunteer spirit, attention to detail and ability
to pivot when needed. Look for future events to occur each quarter.
    
To make a financial contribution to support future events, please
contact Lisa Kuhn at the Village of Rockford, 419-363-3032 ext 1 or
email chamber@rockfordalive.com.

 
October 6-7, 2020 
 

Pastor Doug Meyer will return to St. Paul’s United Church of Christ

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites the community to their Sunday morning worship services at 10 A.M indoors.

On October 11, 2020, Pastor Doug Meyer, retired Lutheran Minister from Celina’s St. John's Lutheran (purple door) Church, returns to St. Paul’s and will deliver another one of his truly inspirational morning messages, entitled; “Whatever or Whatever it Takes?”

For those of you who like to follow the scripture lessons, please read
Old Testament: Isaiah 43:1-3a
New Testament: Psalm 41:1-4
and Gospel: Mark 2:1-12

Safe Holy Communion is on the worship agenda, too.

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

Please call Dave Taylor at 419-733-1155 for any questions.

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

Pastor Doug Meyer leads worship service at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ on October 4, 2020

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed Pastor Doug Meyer to the pulpit on Sunday, October 4, 2020. His inspiring message, titled, “When You’re Down to Nothing,” included Biblical references of hope that “God is up to something.” Pastor Doug shared this message from a pastor colleague in Texas. God will know what you need at those low points.

In Genesis 37:26-28, God was up to something when Joseph’s brothers sold him to the Ishmaelites because Joseph became the 2^nd most important man in Egypt saving the people from a famine. When his brothers and families were starving and arrived in Egypt, we read the most powerful example of forgiveness in the Bible when Joseph welcomed his surprised brothers, forgave them and fed them.

Job lost it all. He was at the bottom and down to nothing but God was up to something. Here came the most powerful confession of hope, “My redeemer lives and I’ll see him again.”

In John 19:28-30, at Jesus’ lowest point on the cross, we see that God was up to something, as Jesus took his last breath. God opened up the world to life and forgiveness.

In Acts 9:3-6 Saul, who persecuted the church, met his lowest point on the road to Damascus when lightning struck and blinded him. As Jesus commanded him to go into the city and teach the word, God turned Saul who became Paul into the greatest missionary of the church.

Pastor Doug will be back in the pulpit on Sunday, October 11, 2020, serving communion and delivering the message, “Whatever, or Whatever it Takes.”

 
October 1-5, 2020 
 

Parkway Schools are now CLOSED for Monday, October 5, 2020.

Parkway Schools are now on a 3 Hour Delay for Monday, October 5, 2020.
 

On Monday, October 5, 2020, Parkway Schools went on a 2 hour delay
for fog in the area.

Sheriff Grey cautions motorists about visibility issues.

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

OUR OLD BOOKCASE, by Joyce L. Alig, President, Mercer County Historical Society, Inc.

Photo caption: The “Oil and Gas Boom, Mercer County and Midwest Ohio”  book will be available Sunday September 27, and October 4, 2020 at the Mercer County Historical Museum - Click Here for a picture of the cover of the book!

The new book, “Oil and Gas Boom, Mercer County and Midwest Ohio,” by Joyce L. Alig, President Mercer County Historical Society, will be available for the early customers for the pre-publication price of $45.00 at the Mercer County Historical Museum, 130 East Market, one block east of the Courthouse, Sunday afternoon, 1:00 – 4:00, September 27.  For those who are unable to pick up their copy on September 27, the books will be available at the Museum, at $45.00 on Sunday, October 4.

This book of 252 pages includes 60 color pages, plus a Hard Back Gloss Laminated Cover of 24 chapters about oil and gas wells of Mercer, Auglaize, Van Wert, and Darke Counties, Ohio, and Jay County, Indiana, and on the Reservoir of “Off Shore Oil Wells.” 

Off-Shore Oil Wells features “Never-before told history “of the 1889 plat map of the Mercer County Reservoir (Grand Lake), with the plat map sections identifying the names of the owners of land in each section of land around this Lake.  Yes,  you can easily find  your own relatives who owned land along the shore. . . which first held the off-shore oil wells when the lake flooded during high water in February 1887.  See the photographs of the oil wells and the lake shore and maps throughout this book.  In the late 1880’s, oil wells which had been drilled along the lake shore, followed by flooding when the level of water on the lake rose, those oil well derricks were “under water,” i.e. “Off Shore Oil Wells.”

The State of Ohio immediately recognized the opportunity to add money to their treasury, and in 1888 ordered a detailed “Survey of the Reservoir” because it was a part of the “State-owned” Miami & Erie Canal System.   Next, on March 7, 1892, The State of Ohio began to hold Court at the Fountain Hotel at St. Marys, against the owners of oil wells on the lake, without having leases for oil wells.  You will have to read the Senate Joint Resolution No. 8, which is about 47 pages long, to see what happened!  This story is included in this important Ohio History book, because it is a strong part of the History of Grand Lake!

The Petroleum History Institute gave permission for the  “Early Drilling and Oil and Gas Production in and around Grand Lake, Ohio (1886-1911)” and “Trenton Limestone Oil and Gas Boom of Northwest Ohio,” by Jeff Spencer, President, for their November 1, 2017 “Oil-Industry History,” academic publications to be a part of this historic book.  The American Oil and Gas Historical Society reviewed this story on the Internet, and in this book.  “Windfall Films, London,”  requested permission for this story to be included in their 2009 film, “Big, Bigger, Biggest,” for the “National Geographic Documentary.”

This history of the oil and gas wells is written within the context of local history, within the local communities.  Local Newspapers documented the events of the time period.  Graduate and Under Graduate History Instructors will do well to learn about the influence of the oil and gas boom, during the era of the railroads which crossed the Midwestern States.  Historians will better understand the rise and fall of the early Post Offices and the growth of the economy in business and industry within the communities.  The Bibliography of resources for information will help future historians.  Eight pages of Index of local names in this book, “Oil and Gas Boom, Mercer County and Midwest Ohio,” is the quickest way for families to find their own names in this book. 

The Mercer County Historical Society has published over thirty history books. 

This book, “Oil and Gas Boom, Mercer County and Midwest Ohio,”  is among the best!

The Rockford Ohio Historic Mural dedication has been postponed to next Sunday, October 11th.

Early "In Person" Voting begins October 6

By Toni Slusser, Mercer County Board of Elections
October 1, 2020
Early "In Person" Voting begins October 6.  The "early voting location" is set up in the Court House Auditorium (west Door Entrance).  If you want to vote in person, you just need to bring your ID, just like you do on election day.

If you have already requested a ballot by mail, you DO NOT have to do any anything else....the Board is mailing over 5,900 next week.

If you are not registered to vote, there is still time.  You can register to vote through close of day on Monday October 5, and we are open late that evening.  IMPORTANT....if you don't know....or want want to know if you're registered, use the instructions below for Voter View...if you are not registered, when you type your name in to see your ballot, nothing will come up.  If you are checking for a family member repeat the process with their name.  If you need to update your address, see the last note on the instructions (below).

If anyone has questions, the phone number at the Board of Elections is (419) 586-2215.

----------------------------------------------------------

As of today the BOE has processed 5,900 absentee ballot requests:

Dem = 1,184

Rep = 1,990

Ind & Liber = 2,726

------------------------------------

For any of you who would like to be able to see your actual ballot for the November 3 Election, here are the steps:

In your search bar type:

Ohio Secretary of State Voter View

Click on the search result:  (Usually the first one that comes up...but make sure it is a ".gov" link) or using this hyperlink:

https://www.ohiosos.gov/elections/voters/toolkit/sample-ballot/

A page with a map with the counties on will come up.  Scroll down below the maps and click on:

Mercer County

Then a screen will come up and you can type in your first and last name...skip all the other data it asks for

Click on the "Search Button"

Scroll down to"

Sample Ballot and click on the little hyperlink...(it'll be a XX.X number ranging from 1.1 to 36.X

If you need to update your voter registration address, scroll past the Sample Ballot and click

Click Here to Update Your Registration

 
September 29-30, 2020 
 

Library Board to Meet
The Rockford Carnegie Library Board of Trustees will hold its monthly meeting on Tuesday, October 13, at 4:00 p.m. in the library meeting room.  The public is invited to attend.

Genealogical Society to Meet

The Mercer County Ohio Genealogical Society will meet Sunday,

October 4th at 2 pm at the Richardson-Bretz Building, located at 119  West  Fulton Street, Celina, OH.

There will be a roundtable/show and tell discussion.

Attendees are encouraged to bring something of interest.

It could be a family history, an article or item that you have inherited,

or run across that was unique while researching.

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

The meeting is free and open to the public.

Rockford Lions Club Meets – Events Up in the Air

The Rockford Lions Club met Monday evening, September 14, 2020 for the first time since statewide concern for public health and safety prompted the postponement of the 2nd Annual Rockford Lions Club Quarter Auction in March.  Ongoing safety concerns also prompted the cancelation of the Lions Club Car Show and Cruise-IN during the Rockford Community Days in June. 

In keeping with the Lions motto "We Serve," Rockford Lions discussed monthly service projects including support for the St Anthony Dinner Theater to continue their 2020 missional efforts.

In addition to considering whether or not to hold the ‘Quarter Auction’ as a virtual online event later this year, Lions members discussed the Annual Fish Fry tentatively scheduled for November 7, 2020.  Decisions on these projects will be made at their September 28th meeting.  Proceeds from the Fish Fry help support the Parkway Eighth Grade Class Trip to Washington D.C. 

For the 2020-21 season, September through May, the Rockford Lions Club will be meeting at 6:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of the month at a new location; the Rockford Village Office on East Columbia Street.   Special thanks to the Rockford Carry Out, for their support of the Rockford Lions Club and their on-going community support. 

Second Crossing Brew Co. of Rockford Donates Proceeds
Thank you to Second Crossing Brew Co. of Rockford for a generous donation to the Rockford Police Department.  
A proceed of sales from their own The Thin Blueberry Line and Respect The Fuzz was brewed and named to honor all law enforcement officers.  

Fog Seal Begins

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart is announcing that contract crews will be starting the fog seal work on various rural local roads in Mercer County. The Mercer County Engineer in conjunction with our contractor, Ward Construction, is preparing to place an asphalt sealant onto the roadway for all of the roads that were chip sealed recently. The purpose of this sealant is to: 1. Further fill the cracks and voids in the pavement 2. Virtually eliminate all the dust and loose stone 3. Lessen the noise factor created by the new surface 4. Provide a black surface to better accentuate the yellow centerline stripe and to increase the winter snow/ice melting due to the blackened background The sealant will be applied in mile increments and will cure out in about 1/2 hour. After that point, our contractor will open that mile section to traffic and then move to the next section of roadway. Once cured, the sealant will not track nor spray onto vehicles.

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.

 
September 26-28, 2020 
 

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ Plans
for Pastor Doug Meyer
October 4, 2020
St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites the community to their Sunday morning worship services at 10 A.M indoors.

On October 4, 2020, Pastor Doug Meyer, retired Lutheran Minister from Celina’s St. John's Lutheran (purple door) Church, will deliver the inspirational morning message entitled, “When You’re Down to Nothing.” For those who follow scripture lessons, please read Genesis 37:26-28; Acts 9:3-6 and Gospel John 19:28-30.

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

Please call Dave Taylor at 419-733-1155 for any questions.

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

 
September 24-25, 2020 
 

Mural Dedication planned in Rockford
ROCKFORD, OHIO HISTORIC MURAL DEDICATION
SUNDAY – OCTOBER 4TH @ 3 PM
Location – 201 S Main St., Rockford, OH 45882
GUEST SPEAKERS :
TWYLA HAYES - PRESENTER
DAN KEYES - ARTIST
HARRISON FRECH – AUTHOR
• Please bring your own lawn chairs
• Practice State guidelines for COVID
• In case of rain  - event will be canceled and rescheduled.

Bicentennial souvenirs and books will be on sale during the dedication.
Rockford Carryout will have chicken dinners available for $7.50   --- pre sale tickets only --- call 419-363-2855 by
Tuesday – September 29th to reserve dinners.  Pick up from 4-5:30 pm.
For information, call 419-363-3032 ext 1.
 

Village of Rockford
Public Service Announcement

Sunday – October 11th –
The Rockford Fire Department will be flushing hydrants beginning at 12:30 --- entire village.

Shane Brothers Christian Gospel Group from Bluffton, IN, recently delivered the morning message in Gospel music at St. Paul's United Church of Christ in Rockford. Their mission encouraged Believers through music singing old time and new tunes in harmony.

Members of the group are brothers Jeff and Mike Shane, and Jim Loving. Their parents were their inspiration as well as their grandfather who was a church leader all his life.  Joining together in 1992, the troupe performed with the late Glen Campbell, the Blackwood Brothers Quartet and the Kingsmen to name a few notables.

 
September 21-23, 2020 
 

The Shane Brothers Christian Gospel Group
coming to St. Paul’s United Church of Christ

St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH continues their Sunday morning worship services at 10 A.M. The venue is now in the sanctuary of the church for the rest of the Fall and Winter.

On September 27, Shane Brothers Christian Gospel Group from Bluffton, IN, where they own and operate the Gospel Barn, will deliver the morning message in Gospel music. Their mission is to encourage Believers through music.

Members of the group are brothers Jeff and Mike Shane, and Jim Loving. Their parents were their inspiration as well as their grandfather who was a church leader all his life.  Joining together in 1992, the troupe performed with the late Glen Campbell, the Blackwood Brothers Quartet and the Kingsmen to name a few notables.

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

Please call Dave Taylor at 419-733-1155 for more info.

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

C

Bridge Replacement

The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Brockman Road between Harrison Road and Chickasaw Road in Franklin/Marion Township for a bridge replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on September 22, 2020 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 4-6 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

Parkway Cross Country ran in the South Adams Invitational in Berne on Saturday 9-19-2020


The High School Boys team finished 4th out of 12  teams. Blake Strickler was 5th overall, Colby Bentz 22nd, Riley Samples 23rd, Tyler Rowan 33rd and Cade Schoenleben 67th. 


The High School Girls finished 6th. Lexie Berry was 16th overall, Katie Trisel 19th, Morgan Hunter 25th, Sydney Waters 59th and Leah Eichler 72nd. 


The Junior High Boys team finished 2nd. Xavier Samples was 2nd overall, Trevor Stearns 12th, Zach Rogers 14th, Eli Schumm 17th and Nathaniel Stolly 19th. 


Amanda Barrett was 6th overall in the Junior High Girls race.


Thank you to the Booster Club for organizing the send off.  The kids appreciated it!

Farm Accident Results in Death

Mercer County Sheriff, Jeff Grey reports that his office investigated a farm accident that occurred at 889 Cassella – Montezuma Road Maria Stein, Ohio.   Grey advised that his office received a 911 call at 10:20 AM on 9-21-2020, and the caller reported that a male was trapped inside a silo at that location. 

The investigation found that 39 year old Timothy J Dirksen (same address) was inside a 90 foot silo and was leveling off silage.  It is believed that Dirksen was overcome with fumes from inside the silo.  Fire and EMS Personnel were able to extract Dirksen from the silo and began resuscitation efforts with him. Dirksen was flown from the scene by helicopter to Miami Valley Hospital (Dayton, Ohio), where he was pronounced deceased. 

Assisting at the scene were members of the Saint Henry EMS and Fire Departments from North Star, Osgood, Chickasaw, Celina and Burkettsville. 

No other information is available at the time of this release.

Jeff Grey, Mercer County Sheriff

 
September 19-20, 2020  
 

Parkway Homecoming planned for October 2, 2020

Parkway High School will be playing their annual homecoming football game on October 2, 2020. The Panthers will be hosting the Minster Wildcats with the game kick-off at 7 PM. Homecoming festivities will take place before the game. This year’s attendants include freshman: Meg Henkle, sophomore: Alyx Yoder, junior: Gracyn Temple, and seniors: Claire Rutledge, Sydney Waters, and Grace Etgen. Due to COVID restrictions, there will not be a parade to the game or a homecoming dance. The Student Government would like to thank the fans who are able to attend the game and those cheering from home. We appreciate your support during this unprecedented year. Let’s go, Panthers! 

 
September 15-18, 2020 
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 16 years!
 

Ohio’s Shaffer Wins Phoenix Bass Fishing League Event at Ohio River in Maysville

Louisiana’s Horne Wins Co-angler Division

MAYSVILLE, Ky. (Aug. 17, 2020) – Boater Dick Shaffer of Rockford, Ohio, brought a five-bass limit to the scale Saturday weighing 8 pounds, 2 ounces to win the 2020 Phoenix Bass Fishing League presented by T-H Marine event on the Ohio River in Maysville, Kentucky. For his victory, Shaffer earned a total of $3,879.

The tournament was the third of five events in the Buckeye Division presented by A.R.E. Truck Caps.

“It’s been a long time – my last win was in 2011 – so I feel a lot better, now,” said Shaffer, who earned his 16th career victory in FLW competition. “I was just upriver, fishing main-river stuff. I haven’t been up in that area for four or five years, so I just went fishing blind.”

Shaffer said that he caught his fish on two baits – a Yamamoto Senko and a Zoom Speed Craw.

“I got lucky and caught two off of one stump on back-to-back casts,” Shaffer said. “Then I saw a green tree that looked good, so I stopped and fished it. I ended up catching four fish off of it.

“Late in the day I caught a fish off of a dock that culled me up a half-pound and that one ended up making the difference and getting me the win.”

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament as follows:

            1st:       Dick Shaffer of Rockford, Ohio, five bass, 8-2, $3,879

            2nd:      Roger Hahn of Fairfield, Ohio, five bass, 7-13, $1,940

            3rd:       Jamie Cunnagin of New Lebanon, Ohio, five bass, 7-7, $1,293

            4th:       Brandon Cline of Wheelersburg, Ohio, four bass, 7-4, $1,405

            5th:       Brody Campbell of Oxford, Ohio, five bass, 7-0, $776

            6th:       Donald Sibley of Strasburg, Ohio, five bass, 6-3, $679

            6th:       Ronald Nutter of Newark, Ohio, three bass, 6-3, $679

            8th:       Josh Smith of Hamilton, Ohio, five bass, 6-1, $582

            9th:       Benjamin Quisno of Maineville, Ohio, two bass, 5-6, $517

            10th:     Brad Baldwin of Waynesville, Ohio, five bass, 5-5, $430

            10th:     Pete Justice of Sharonville, Ohio, four bass, 5-5, $430

Complete results can be found at FLWFishing.com.

David Spivey of Hamilton, Ohio, claimed the day’s Boater Big Bass Award of $515 after bringing a 4-pound, 13-ounce bass to the scale.

Cline was the highest-finishing FLW PHOENIX BONUS member and took home an extra $500. Boaters are eligible to win up to an extra $7,000 per event in each Phoenix Bass Fishing League presented by T-H Marine tournament if all requirements are met. More information on the FLW PHOENIX BONUS contingency program can be found at PhoenixBassBoats.com.

Michael Horne of Dodson, Louisiana, won the Co-angler Division and $2,197 Saturday after catching two bass weighing 5 pounds, 7 ounces.

The top 10 co-anglers finished as follows:

            1st:       Michael Horne of Dodson, La., two bass, 5-7, $2,197

            2nd:      Austin Brock of Liberty Township, Ohio, four bass, 5-3, $1,170

            3rd:       Ryan Lancaster of Oxford, Ohio, three bass, 4-10, $646

            4th:       Jordon Smith of Middletown, Ohio, three bass, 3-13, $453

            5th:       Ryan Rich of Eaton, Ohio, one bass, 3-9, $372

            5th:       Derrick Sadlowski of Steubenville, Ohio, two bass, 3-9, $372

            7th:       Ron Weisenburger of Continental, Ohio, two bass, 3-7, $307

            7th:       John Lane of Findlay, Ohio, two bass, 3-7, $307

            9th:       Darrell Carroll of Independence, Ky., two bass, 3-2, $259

            10th:     James Wilcox of Cincinnati, Ohio, two bass, 3-1, $465

            10th:     J.R. Selke of Waynesville, Ohio, two bass, 3-1, $215

Horne also caught the largest bass in the Co-angler Division, weighing in at 3 pounds, 13 ounces. The catch added to his winnings as he earned the day’s Co-angler Big Bass award of $257.

The top 45 boaters and co-anglers in the Buckeye Division presented by A.R.E. Truck Caps based on point standings, along with the five winners of each qualifying event, will be entered in the Oct. 16-18 Phoenix Bass Fishing League Regional Championship on Cherokee Lake in Jefferson City, Tennessee, hosted by the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce. Boaters will compete for a $60,000 prize package, including a new Phoenix 819 Pro bass boat with a 200-horsepower Mercury outboard and $10,000, while co-anglers will fish for a new 18-foot Phoenix bass boat with a 200-horsepower outboard.

The 2020 Phoenix Bass Fishing League presented by T-H Marine is a 24-division circuit devoted to weekend anglers, with 128 tournaments throughout the season, five qualifying events in each division. The top 45 boaters and co-anglers from each division, along with the five winners of the qualifying events, will advance to one of six regional tournaments where they are competing to finish in the top six, which then qualifies them for one of the longest-running championships in all of competitive bass fishing – the Phoenix Bass Fishing League All-American.

The 2020 Phoenix Bass Fishing League All-American will be held Nov. 11-13 at Lake Hartwell in Anderson, South Carolina and is hosted by Visit Anderson. The top 45 boaters and co-anglers plus tournament winners from each Phoenix Bass Fishing League division earn priority entry into the FLW Series, the pathway to the FLW Pro Circuit and ultimately the MLF Bass Pro Tour, where top pros compete with no entry fees.

For complete details and updated information visit FLWFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the Phoenix Bass Fishing League presented by T-H Marine on FLW’s social media outlets at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

About FLW
FLW is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, providing anglers of all skill levels the opportunity to compete for millions in prize money across five tournament circuits. Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, FLW and its partners conduct more than 290 bass-fishing tournaments annually around the world, including the United States, Canada, China, Italy, South Korea, Mexico, Namibia, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, and Zimbabwe.

FLW tournament fishing can be seen on the Emmy-nominated “FLW” television show while Bass Fishing magazine delivers cutting-edge tips from top pros. Acquired by Major League Fishing in late 2019, FLW is expanding its programming in 2020 to the Outdoor Channel and the Sportsman Channel as well as on-demand at MyOutdoorTV (MOTV).

Parkway Golf Matches - Click Here

 
September 11-14, 2020 
 

Results from the past 2 weeks for Parkway Cross Country
by Steve Samples


Saturday 9/12 at Spencerville Bearcat Invitational:

Junior High Girls runner Amanda Barrett finished 8th overall.

Junior High Boys team won the meet. Top 5 runners were Xavier Samples  who finished 2nd in the race overall, Zach 
Roger's 10th, Trevor Stearns 12th, Nathaniel Stolly 15th, and Eli Schumm 21st.

HS Girls team finished 8th. Lexi Berry 9th, Katie Trisel 17th, Morgan Hunter 44th, Leah 
Eichler 68th, and Sydney Waters 79th.

HS Boys team finished 8th.  Blake Strickler 10th, Riley 
Samples 31st, Colby Bentz 37th, Tyler Rowen 46th, and Carter Hellwarth 70th.

Pictured below is the Junior High Boys Team and Coaches with their first place trophy.


Saturday 9/5 at Wapak Night Meet:

JH Boys team finished in 2nd place out of 8 teams. Xavier Samples won the race with Trevor Stearns 9th and Zack Rogers 11th overall. 

JH Girls had Amanda Barrett finish 8th overall. 

HS Boys team was 8th out of 13 teams. Blake Strickler was 15th overall. 

HS Girls were 9th out of 11 teams. Lexie Berry was 18th overall.

Deacon Tom Sanford (from Kingdom Harvest Ministries) to Deliver Sermon
at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ

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

On September 20, Deacon Tom Sanford will deliver the sermon entitled “ Total Submission.” For those of you who follow the scripture lessons, read 1 Samuel 15:22 in the Old Testament and Luke 22:42 in the New Testament.

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

On September 27^th, The Shane Brothers, Christian singers will entertain with old and new Christian music.

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

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

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

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

Sharon Jones Speaks at St. Paul’s UCC on September 13, 2020

St. Paul's United Church of Christ members welcomed Sharon Jones to the pulpit on September 13, 2020 with her Christian message through singing and signing for the deaf.  

Sharon witnessed to her life in Christ’s care, as she was born with extremely limited hearing. During her mother’s pregnancy with Sharon, she contracted Measles which damaged Sharon’s hearing irreparably. But the problem was not discovered until Sharon was in the 5^th grade when she was diagnosed and fitted with hearing aids. Up until that point, she struggled in school, because she could not hear – she was clinically deaf. Sharon’s world changed for the better and later she spent two years at St. Rita’s School for the deaf. Being in a specialized school boosted her up. It was there that she gained confidence, completed high school, and learned sign language. She learned to live with her disability through her education there but still struggled with issues throughout her life. In times of darkness, Sharon witnessed, God and Jesus Christ pulled her through. She learned to never give up. Today, she entertains through Christian songs and hymns.

She sings as well as signs to the music. It was a very unique experience for the UCC congregation (see above); many had never seen music signing before. Several spoke with her afterwards about their own hearing experiences.

 
September 10, 2020 
 

Chicken Dinners to Raise Money for Scholarships
The Parkway Education Association is selling chicken dinners to raise money for the PEA scholarship.  The dinners are $10 each and include 1/2 chicken, chips, applesauce, cookie and water.  They are prepared by the Rockford Carryout. The deadline for presale tickets is on September 15, 2020.

When: Friday September 18th, from 3:30-5:30 PM 

Where: Pick up at the HS Entrance

Please contact Anita Morton for tickets at mortona@parkwayschools.org. 

On Thursday, September 10, 2020, Parkway Schools went on a 2 hour delay
for fog in the area.

Sheriff Grey cautions motorists about visibility issues.

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

 
September 9, 2020  
 

Parkway Schools are now on a 3 Hour Delay for Wednesday, September 9, 2020.
Note: No AM Preschool, but PM Preschool goes on schedule.

On Wednesday, September 9, 2020, Parkway Schools went on a 2 hour delay
for fog in the area.

Sheriff Grey cautions motorists about visibility issues.

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

 
September 8, 2020 
 

Thank you to Henkle Insurance for sponsoring the weather link!

Rockford Village Officials --- working to prevent accidents at Intersection 707/118

Rockford Village officials, Mercer County Engineering, Mercer County
EMS, ODOT and Mercer County commissioner met Wednesday morning via
conference call. Discussion included concerns of public safety and the
intersection of 118/707. There is a hill cut project planned to begin
late 2023 But for our friends and neighbors we are looking for a few
fixes that may help us in the meantime. We are currently compiling
more data about this issue so that we can hopefully provide a safer environment. We are asking all of you for some help. If you have
experienced any instances with this intersection please send all or
any info to Rockford Village Hall so that we can send to state
officials.

Please send emails to
 Lisa.kuhn@rockfordohio.org

by Amy Joseph
Mayor, Village of Rockford
www.rockfordalive.org

To spray or not to spray

Roadside herbicide application for the suppression of undesirable vegetation and environmental enhancement, through the use of Environmental Protection Agency approved herbicides, will be performed by licensed personnel along all County Roads in Mercer County and on Township Roads in Center and Jefferson Townships, starting September 14, 2020 extending thru October 14, 2020, according to the Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart.

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

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

Special Genealogy meeting planned
The Mercer County Ohio Genealogical Society will meet Sunday,

September 13th at 2 pm at the Richardson-Bretz Building, located at 119  West  Fulton Street, Celina, OH.

Eric Kuhn will be sharing artifacts and items, including Civil War artifacts, found locally while using a metal detector.

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

The meeting is free and open to the  public.

Mercer County Health District COVID-19 Situation Update

– September 4, 2020 CELINA- As of September 4, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 832 confirmed cases, 40 probable cases, 734 recovered cases, 50 pending cases, 2,937 negative cases, 7 hospitalizations, 15 deaths, and 1 probable death of COVID-19. Currently, there are 81 active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County. Mercer County remains elevated at level 3 on the Ohio Public Health Advisory System issued by the Ohio Department of Health. The county remains at red because of the high incidence rate of new COVID-19 cases. Counties having more than 100 cases per 100,000 residents within the past two weeks qualify as high incidence counties. Mercer County has 187.02 new cases per 100,000 residents. Although the county remains at level 3, it is encouraging to see our numbers continue to drop and this trend can continue if all Mercer County residents do their part to take precautions against the spread of the virus. As we get closer to the Labor Day weekend, we encourage all Mercer County residents to enjoy the weekend responsibly. Continue to practice social distancing and avoid gatherings of more than ten people. When attending allowable gatherings, maintain distance from others outside of your household. Be considerate of others, and avoid exposing vulnerable individuals such as the elderly or those with existing medical conditions. Mercer County is slowly seeing a drop in the number of new cases and is trending in the right direction. However, it is important to continue to take preventive measures to slow the spread of the virus. 

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

The Congregation of St. Paul's United Church of Christ – Rockford welcomed the Pastor Doug Meyer to the pulpit on Sunday, September 6, 2020. His message, titled, “Orders Remain the Same,” included two Biblical references for the message from God that we are to “Go” out into the world and save the lost, feed the hungry and spread the Good News of Jesus Christ. The first lesson was  about Jonah as he followed God’s message to “Go” to Ninevah and save the people from destruction (Jonah 3:1-5). Pastor Meyer also covered the story in Acts 5:17-21, where the Apostles were arrested and held in prison only to be freed by an angel of God who told them to “Go” to the temple and speak to the people of this Life. In recalling a memory from his youth, Pastor Doug told the story of attending the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with his family on many occasions. The soldier leaving his post for the shift tells the new guard that, “ . . . the orders remain the same . . .” and the guard hears and acknowledges that he accepts the orders. God’s orders remain the same, too: “Go and spread the Good News”.

Singer Sharon Jones will deliver a message of Christian music and her own personal walk with God as she is a person with hearing disabilities, on Sunday, September 13, 2020, and Deacon Tom Sanford, from Kingdom Harvest Ministries, will deliver the sermon on Sunday, September 20, 2020. Mr. Sanford will also tell about the Bible study program his church has started at the Parkway Schools.  The Shane Brothers (see photo left) will bring a message of music on Sunday, September 27, 2020. Services are held outside under a big tent. Bring your own lawn chairs if you prefer. Some feel more comfortable sitting in their vehicles and listening. Social distancing and other rules are being followed to keep everyone safe. In case of rain, the congregation goes safely inside. The community is invited to worship with us!

 
September 3-7, 2020 
Happy Labor Day Weekend!
 

Vantage Celebrates Fall Sports Spirit Day

CAPTION:  Vantage Celebrates Fall Sports Spirit Day – Over 100 student athletes, cheerleaders, color guard, and pep 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 extracurricular activities. Wishing all of our student athletes and associate school districts a successful fall sports season!

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

The grants allow deputies to spend more time targeting problem areas while on patrol. The grant is broken down into two focus areas. The first for $21,824.15, titled Repeat Offenders for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), will focus on looking for subjects driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol within our county. The second part of the grant, valued at $16,049.43, is State and Community Highway Safety. This part of the grant allows us to have our deputies focus on driving laws and ensure all motorists are safe while on the roads of Mercer County.

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

Further inquiries can be directed to Captain Doug Timmerman at 419-586-7724.

Jeff Grey, Mercer County Sheriff

 
September 1-2, 2020 
 

Library Trustees Welcome Public to Meeting
The Rockford Carnegie Library Board of Trustees will meet on Tuesday, September 8 at 4 p.m. at the Library.  The public is welcome to attend.

Shots Fired Call Happens Near Chattanooga in Mercer County
Mercer County Sheriff, Jeff Grey reports that his office received a 911 call at 3:38 PM.  The caller had indicated that a family member had hung a note on a tree indicating that he was suicidal and then left walking into a woods attached to the property of 8796 Indiana Ohio State Line Road Celina, Ohio.  Deputies responded to the scene upon arrival, gunshots were heard, but deputies were unsure if they were the intended target or if he was shooting into the air.  A short time later, as back up units from Celina Police Department arrived, the suspect stepped out from behind an abandoned refridgerator with the firearm in his hand.  A Celina Police Officer fired multiple rounds at the suspect. 

Sheriff Grey called in assistance from the Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office SRT Team (Special Response Team), Van Wert Sheriff’s Office, Celina Police Department, Adams County Indiana Sheriff’s Office and the Ohio State Highway Patrol Air Unit (Helicopter).  Grey reported that shortly after 8:00 PM, the SRT Team located the male in a culvert and were able to extract him.   At this time the suspect is being held in the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility for inducing panic.  He has been indentified as Rick A Bult, age 59, 8796 Indiana Ohio State Line Road.

Also assisting at the scene were members of the Celina Fire Department (EMS)  and assistance was given by Lake Field Airport to refuel the OSP Air Unit.

Sheriff Grey would like the thank all of the agencies that responded.  Lots of manpower and resources were used, but the best outcome was able to be obtained.  Grey advised that no one received any injuries.

Sheriff Grey advised that not every agency can afford to have all of the specialized units or equipment, but when another agency needs helps, we all pull our resources together and work as one team.  Tonight it all paid off. 

This case remains under investigation.  When the investigation is complete, the case will be reviewed by the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office to determine if other charges are warranted.

Jeff Grey
Mercer County Sheriff

Bring Hazardous Waste and Steel
Saturday – October 3rd 9 am – 1pm – Mercer County Household Hazardous Waste Day and Steel Drop off – Mercer
County Fairgrounds –
Residential only --- NO BUSINESSES

Sponsored by the Mercer County Solid Waste Management District
419-586-3695

Minster Oktoberfest Classic 10K Run Approved
October 4th at 9:30 the Minster Oktoberfest Classic 10K Run has been approved by the Health Department and will run live.  Virtual options are also available which will include a shirt, bib and participant medal just like the live race.  Plenty of fun entertainment along the beautiful flat course.  Register online at minster10k.com  Unfortunately, we are unable to have day of registration this year.   Looking forward to seeing you! 

P.E.R.I Meeting Cancelled
The Mercer County PERI meeting scheduled for Tuesday, September 8, 2020 is being cancelled due to directives from the Ohio PERI.  Ohio PERI continues to encourage all local and district groups to suspend activities related to COVID-19 concerns.  Mercer County PERI will anticipate gathering at its next regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, November 10, 2020 at the Hopewell Grange Hall at the Mercer County Fairgrounds.  

Additionally, The Mercer County PERI extends its condolences to the family of Mauri Cron who passed away recently.  Mauri was the current President and Legislative Officer and a conscientious member of the Mercer County PERI chapter.  His leadership will be sorely missed.

Increased enforcement announced for northwest Mercer County
Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today that his office is increasing its presence in the northwest portion of Mercer County, specifically SR 118, SR 707, and SR 49.   A recent increase in traffic crashes, 15 since November 2019,  were due to driver inattention, speeding, and stop sign violations. 

Deputies will be assigned to these areas and have a zero tolerance for stop sign violations.  “I want everyone to understand,” stated Sheriff Grey, “If you get stopped for a stop sign violation, you will receive a citation, no warnings will be issued, the zero tolerance on stop sign violations will be county wide.”

Increased enforcement of speed laws will occur on SR 118 from Frahm Pike to Rockford, on SR 49 from Chatt to the Van Wert County line, and on SR 707 from US 33 to the State Line.  We have had far too many crashes and injuries on these roads.

He further advised that deputies will be working overtime to target stop sign violations and speed violations. The goal of this enforcement blitz is to reduce crashes and injuries.

Sheriff Grey reminds citizens to buckle up and slow down. The life you save may be your own.

Jeff Grey, Sheriff

Mercer County Sheriff’s Office

Celina Police Department - Electric skateboards and similar devices
by Tom Wale, Police Chief

Electric skateboards and similar devices have been becoming increasingly popular in Celina this summer. 
However, they are not legal on City streets or sidewalks.  They are a traffic hazard and present a great risk
of serious physical harm to the rider in the event of a traffic crash.  Also, most of them travel significantly faster
than the average pedestrian and therefore also present a substantial risk of harm to pedestrians.

Complaints about these devices and the hazards they pose have been increasing recently and everyone has noticed them. 
Many have been seen in the streets and on sidewalks during both daytime hours and hours of darkness. 

Officers had been instructed to issue warnings to riders over the past couple of weeks, however, these warnings seem to have been unheeded.  Officers are now instructed to issue citations upon seeing these violations based on the following:

  1.) City ORD (ordinance) 311.03 states, in short, that skateboards or similar devices shall not be used on the streets.

  2.) City ORD 301.51 and ORC 4511.01(A) are identical and define what a vehicle is.  These devices meet that definition.  They are, however, not street legal.

  3.) City ORD 331.37 prohibits vehicles on the sidewalks – which will include electric skateboards and similar devices.

Thank you for you cooperating with our efforts to keep Celina safe!

The complete ordinances are listed below and can be found online as well.

311.03  TOY VEHICLES ON STREETS.

   (a)   No person on roller skates or riding in or by means of any sled, toy vehicle, skateboard or similar device shall go
upon any roadway except while crossing a street on a crosswalk and except on streets set aside as play streets.

   (b)   Whoever violates any provision of this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor on a first offense; on a second offense
within one year after the first offense, the person is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree; on each subsequent offense
within one year after the first offense, the person is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

  301.51  VEHICLE.

   "Vehicle" means every device, including a motorized bicycle and an electric bicycle, in, upon or by which any person or property may be transported or drawn upon a street or highway, except that “vehicle” does not include any motorized wheelchair, any electric personal assistive mobility device, or any device, other than a bicycle, that is moved by human power.  (ORC 4511.01(A))

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

   331.37  DRIVING UPON SIDEWALKS, STREET LAWNS OR CURBS.

   (a)   No person shall drive any vehicle, other than a bicycle or an electric bicycle if the motor is not engaged,
upon a sidewalk or sidewalk area except upon a permanent or duly authorized temporary driveway.  (ORC 4511.711)

   (b)   No person shall drive a vehicle on a street lawn area or the curb of a street, except upon a permanent
or duly authorized temporary driveway or when otherwise lawfully authorized.

   (c)   Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. 
If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle
or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree.  If, within one year of the offense,
the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses,
|whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.

   If the offender commits the offense while distracted and the distracting activity is a contributing factor
to the commission of the offense, the offender is subject to the additional fine established under Section 303.991 
of the Traffic Code.  (ORC 4511.711)

 
August 27-31, 2020  
 

The University Women's Club of Mercer County is Taking Orders for Fresh Fall Pecans
Members of The University Women's Club of Mercer County are taking orders for pecans fresh picked and shelled in Fall 2020 from the state of Georgia, USA.  ALL members are taking pre-orders.

This annual service project has been going on for many years in order to fund the college scholarships given out to the young women of Mercer County from ALL 6 school districts. Just this Spring, the club members awarded $7,500 in scholarship money to high school female graduates heading to college including a new one for a junior female student already in college.

The pecan sales of the club are ongoing now until September 14, 2020. Sizes and prices are as follows: 16 oz Mammoth Pecan Halves $11.00 in cellophane bag; 16 oz Medium Pecan Pieces $11.00 in cellophane bag; 10 oz Cinnamon Glazed Pecans $10.00 in decorative foil bag; and 8 oz Glazed Pecans $10.00 in decorative foil bag. In the Rockford, Mendon and Willshire area, contact Sheila Baltzell-Linn to pre-order 419-733-3326 or email at editor@parkwayindependent.com

Other contacts are Patti Loughrige-Gelhaus 419-305-4011 or Ann Hilty 419-852-2848.

This is a very worthy cause, and the pecans are absolutely fresh and delicious!

C.A.L.L. Ministries’ Director Homer Burnett Delivers Message

The executive director of C.A.L.L. (Community Action Life Line) Ministries, Homer Burnett, shared his message of hope in Mercer County with the membership and friends of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ on 8-30-2020. The food bank started up 30 years ago in 1990 and has grown out of their spaces 4 times. Currently they are located in the old Mersman building on North Brandon Ave. in Celina, OH. They serve 600 families over the whole of Mercer County. A non-profit, Christian based  organization, founded by many different churches, it stands as the central agency to offer help to those in need.

They rely solely on donations, and do not accept government commodities or grants in order that they can freely spread the word of Jesus Christ in ministering to their clients. Homer told about the cherished volunteers who serve at C.A.L.L. through: organizing projects; distributing food to their clients through the pantry; offering fresh salad greens from their Aquaponics Center; and providing fresh vegetables and fruits from their outdoor garden. Members of St. Paul’s knew of the Backpack Program where children are provided with a weekends’ worth of food every Friday as they have donated to this and other such programs at C.A.L.L.( At their Fall Festival and Auction in 2019, the church raised $2000 for C.A.L.L.) But they were surprised as Homer explained their Bed Ministries providing their clients with mattresses, box springs and handmade bed frames. Also the Work 4 Program allows clients to work as Volunteers at C.A.L.L. and the Senior Citizens Center to build up “hours” toward the “securing” of Appliances they need, even cars. He told one heartfelt story of a client who was able to get a car from C.A.L.L. and when she eventually got on her feet and bought her own transportation, she donated the car back. Homer explained that they have needs at all times of the year.

Members and friends of the congregation brought donations of toiletries for C.A.L.L. including: toothbrushes, mouthwash, soaps, razors, floss, and many other items. Some members gave cash donations to C.A.L.L. Shown above are Homer and Carol Burnett accepting the gifts.

 
August 12-26, 2020 
 

Peel Family Builds Storage Unit in Rockford

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce would like to extend a congratulations to the Peel Family in their new business
venture -  Storage Units.    The units are located at 150 E Columbia St. Rockford, OH -
Need storage ?  Contact Barrys' Family Market at 103 Bridge St or call 419-363-2476 for rates.

Congratulations Peel Family and thank you for investing into our community.   You are appreciated.

Parkway Athletic Events are on

Spectators' information is posted on District main page under "Fall 2020 Athletic Update." Click here: www.parkwayschools.org

Please wear your mask when attending athletic events.

Parkway Schools Opens for the 2020-2021 School Year

Parkway Local Schools opened on Monday, August 24, 2020 for the new schools year.

Click here: www.parkwayschools.org to read the policies.

Welcome back Staff and Students!

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

2020 ‘Together on Christmas’ FREE Christmas Day Dinner Cancelled

Over the past fifteen years, ‘Together on Christmas,’ the FREE dinner on Christmas Day held at the Rockford Community Building has changed the way many people in the Mercer County/Northwest Ohio area celebrate Christmas.  The year 2020, the bicentennial year of the Rockford, OH community has been a year of major changes in how we live, serve, and celebrate both statewide and in our local community.  

As Christmas Day 2020 approaches, current Ohio health and safety guidelines for large gatherings remain prohibitive.  Out of concern for the health and safety of ALL area residents and guests who may attend, as well as for those who choose to serve, and because of uncertainty around mass gatherings, the 2020 ‘Together on Christmas’ Christmas Day Dinner has been cancelled. 

Begun in 2005 as a ministry outreach of the Rockford United Methodist Church, ‘Together on Christmas’ has continued to grow and evolve.  The first FREE Christmas Day Dinner was intended to serve hungry and lonely people who might not have a traditional Christmas Day dinner nor family with whom to share it.  The impact of ‘Together on Christmas’ on our community now extends to family members and friends both in and out of state as well as involving a growing number of servants from our community and from other area churches. 

            In 2010 the Together at Christmas meal served approximately 400 guests.  In 2019 approximately 904 total meals were served in 2 ½ hours.  632 people came to the Community Building. There were 175 carryout meals.  There were also 97 servants in attendance.   In addition, behind the scenes 30 people prepared 500 pounds of turkey, 41 people donated desserts, 8 kitchen crew members prepped for the meal on both Christmas Eve and Christmas morning.  Countless others worked moving supplies and decorating the Community Building.  

What began as the vision of one person in 2005, a vision embraced and shared with others, and the first tentative steps of faith has now touched countless lives and truly changed the way many people in the area understand and celebrate Christmas. 

The success of the first 15 years of ‘Together on Christmas’ is due in part to the many servants who organized, cooked, served, donated, decorated, cleaned up, and washed dishes and silverware, and to the growing number of people who came to share a free meal with others in their community on Christmas day.  

Planning for the 2021 return of ‘Together on Christmas’ FREE Christmas Day Dinner at the Rockford Community Building will begin mid-year in 2021 and will likely include a wider circle of community involvement. 

The Rockford United Methodist Church is located at 202 South Franklin Street, Rockford, OH  45882.  Contact the church office at 419-363-3230, or email office.mgr.rumc@bright.net.  Also, contact the church online at www.rumcoh.org or on the Rockford United Methodist Church Facebook page.  Rev. ‘Chip’ Steffy is the pastor.

Rockford Bicentennial Program Canceled for August 30, 2020
After considerable thought, the Bicentennial Committee has decided to postpone the speaking engagement of Dr. Darrell Groman, who was going to portray 'Captain James Riley' on August 30 in the school auditorium.  The presentation is to be scheduled at a later date.

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

Our Old Bookcase, August 2020, “Local History Class,” for Week # 22

Photo caption:  The Overland Model 69 T, was sold at the Celina Auto Company, in 1913, when it was located at 306 South Main.  In 1917, William J. Brown, Sr., purchased the Celina Auto Company, later located at 225 South Main, at the northwest corner of Warren and Main streets.

We Ohioans were first directed, “Stay home during this threat of the virus.”  This is my suggestion about how to make your life more interesting, while staying at home, for Week #22.

Creative ideas are the strong point of the evolution of automobile improvements this past century.  

Some historians made the statement that there is no such thing as a “new Idea.” Historians will often state that new ideas are built upon previous ideas. 

The idea of a retractable roof on the automobile was in use as of 1913.  It appears there was a “running board,” along the side of the passenger door.  A lantern was attached to the side of the auto adjacent to the windshield.  How many technical features of this 1913 Overland Model 69 T were constructed from technical features on buggies of earlier generations?

What about the wheels?  I doubt that historians can date the arrival of wheels on any piece of equipment.  When did the use of the wheel arrive in the history of man?  Goodyear Company would be a  source of information as to the use of rubber tires on vehicles. 

Steam engines made a major contribution to engines in industry.  Engineers would be able to trace the evolution of engines used in automobiles.  The discovery of oil and gas in the United States in the 19th Century brought changes to the history of automobiles.  Agribusiness plays an important role in mid western Ohio’s way of life.  Ask a farmer how many ideas have changed the world of agriculture?

Most adults remember when the computer became a part of business and industry.  When a person takes the car to the dealer, a computer is used to diagnose the status of the parts of that car.  Was the computer a “new idea?’  Did the abacus precede the computer in the creation of mathematical ideas?  An abacus was used in teaching arithmetic long before the computers of today were planned and implemented.  What sparked the idea of an abacus?  Before that, what sparked the idea of using numbers for counting?

There was a time when engines and machines tended to be a part of a man’s world.  With the changes in women’s lives this past century, women have entered the workforce.  Today, everyone recognizes the educational institution, “Tri Star.”  Female students are an accepted part of “Tri Star.” 

My challenge to you, this Week No. 22, is to sit back and consider the ideas which have been a part of the evolution of industry as we know it today.  When problems arose, solutions were found.  Every person has his or her talents; how that person uses those talents determines that person’s future.  How many ideas have you had over your lifetime, which made a difference in your own life? 

I have introduced just a few highlights of ideas and changes in the industrial world.  Who is writing the history books related to the industrial world today?  Who is recording the history of the industrial world, right here in Mid Western Ohio?  This week, I challenge those of you, who have an interest in how ideas have changed business and industry right here in your own county, to write down your own perspective of these changes.  Perhaps, teachers in high school and/or university would assign this topic to their students?  This would be a great topic for Senior Citizens to discuss.

[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.]

Operation Blue Light Conducted

Mercer County Sheriff, Jeff Grey and Celina Police Chief Tom Wale report that their officers worked in conjunction with the Grand Lake Task Force in a Statewide initiative against drugs, called “Operation Blue Light”.   The operation focused enforcement efforts on drugs and other criminal offenses.  The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office and Celina Police Department assigned extra patrol officers / deputies to assist the Grand Lake Task Force in this effort.

During this two (2) day event, officers / deputies made a total of 16 Traffic Stops, They issued 9 citations, issued 18 warning for various traffic violations, issued 5 misdemeanor citations for Drug Abuse Instruments, Drug Paraphernalia, Marijuana, and Obstructing Official Business.  The officers / deputies also arrested 6 people on outstanding warrants and or crimes.   Arrested on warrants were;

Kevin J. Howard, 33 year old male, 440 Touvelle Street, Lot #5, Celina, Ohio, arrested on an outstanding warrant.

Wayne Storer, 38 year old male, 19012 Williams Road, Wapakoneta, Ohio, arrested on an outstanding warrant.

            Jordan G. Simmons, 18 year old male, 1400 West Market, #62, Celina, Ohio, arrested on an outstanding warrant, drug paraphernalia, and obstructing official business.

            Donald W. Noggler,  52 year old male, 201 Buckeye Street, Rockford, Ohio, arrested on an outstanding warrant.

            Jordan A. Cummins, 23 years old male, 1043 West Bank Road, Apt. #B, Celina, Ohio, on an outstanding warrant.

            Kimberly S. Hawkey/Schmidt, 37 year old female, 440 Touvelle Street, Lot #5, Celina, Ohio, arrested on possession of drugs methamphetamine, heroin, drug abuse instrument, and drug paraphernalia.  

Additional charges pending due to ongoing investigation related to assorted drug offenses.             

Sheriff Grey advised that it takes a large amount of intelligence gathering on drug cases, efforts like this help the Grand Lake Drug Task Force narrow down who is involved in this type of activity.  Grey stated that good working relationship between his agency and the Celina Police Department made this a successful initiative. 

Sheriff Grey and Chief Wale both stated that their agencies will continue their push on keeping our local community safe, with efforts like this.  

Fatal Traffic Crash in Mercer County
Mercer County Sheriff, Jeff Grey reports that his office is investigating the fourth fatal traffic crash in Mercer County for 2020 which occurred at the intersection of Wabash Rd and Siegrist Jutte Rd in Recovery Township.

On August 13, 2020 at 4:16 PM Central Dispatch received a 911 call of an injury accident involving two vehicles.  

The investigation found that 58 year old Dennis R Broeker of Coldwater, OH was traveling eastbound on Wabash Rd andstopped at the stop sign at Siegrist Jutte Rd.  Broeker then proceeded into the intersection and into the path of a southbound vehicle driven by 23 year old Keeshia M Brown.  Broeker’s2015 Chevy Equinox was struck by Brown’s 2008 Saturn Aura causing Broeker’s vehicle to flip on its top and come to rest in the southeast side ditch.  Brown’s sedan came to rest in the southeast bean field.

Both Broeker and Brown were transported by squad to Mercer Health Hospital in Coldwater.  Broeker was later pronounced dead at the hospital.

Deputies were assisted at the scene by members of the Coldwater EMS, Celina EMS, and Southwest Mercer Fire Department.

This crash remains under investigation at this time.  

Van Wert Area Performing Arts Foundation Closes for COVID Pandemic

The curtains are drawn, but the show is not over. The Van Wert Area Performing Arts Foundation is saddened to announce that due to the COVID-19 global pandemic, the Van Wert Live team will be taking an intermission until it is safe to provide entertainment.. At this time, it is necessary that our professional staff be furloughed due to the inability to provide ticketed entertainment at a capacity that ensures revenue.

The refund process has begun.

The Van Wert Live Box Office is prepared to issue full refunds of all ticketing events. The VWAPAF Board of Directors and Staff are also extending the option for patrons to turn their refund into a tax-deductible gift as a 2020 Contribution or as an Account Credit to be used for future ticket purchases.

The Van Wert Live Box Office will contact ticket holders via email or phone to provide further instructions. Beginning Aug 11th, if an Account Credit or Contribution has not been indicated, the refund will be initiated and patrons can expect up to two weeks for a refund by credit card or check by mail.

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

CELINA- As of August 24, 2020, the Mercer County Health District (MCHD) reports 752 confirmed cases, 28 probable cases, 663 recovered cases, 31 pending cases, 2,722 negative cases, 9 hospitalizations, 12 deaths, and 1 probable death of COVID-19. Currently, there are 75 active cases of COVID-19 in Mercer County.

Search Warrant – Suspected Drugs and a Firearm Seized
The Celina Police Department executed a search warrant at 6:30 AM on August 20, 2020 as a result of an overnight investigation into suspected drug activity at 213 Morton St., Celina.  The residence has been known to officers as a location for drug activity in the recent past.  During their regular patrol duties they observed increased traffic at the residence.  They were able to develop probable cause to apply for a search warrant.

Mercer County Prosecutor Matthew K. Fox was consulted and he drafted a warrant which was reviewed, approved and signed by Municipal Court Judge Kathryn W. Speelman.  Celina Police along with deputies from the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office kept security until the warrant was signed and officers returned to execute it.

As a result of the search warrant items seized included suspected methamphetamine, heroin, drug paraphernalia and a firearm.  Five person were arrested and state complaints were signed against all of them for various felonies.  They are currently held at the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility.

Those arrested include:

Alanna Rose Edens, 25 yrs old, 615 Hoying St., Celina – Possession of Meth and Heroin (F-5’s)

Jeremy Joseph Myers, 27 yrs old, Lakewview, Ohio – Possession of Meth and Heroin (F-5’s)

Eric D. Bubp, 41 yrs old, 4179 SR118, Coldwater – Possession of Meth (F-5)

Andrea M. Morrow, 41 yrs old, 5897 Bensman Rd, Minster – Possession of Meth (F-5)

David Michael Hawkins, 50 yrs old, 224 W Warren St., Celina – Possession of Meth (F-5) and Possessing Weapons Under Disability (F-3)

The Celina Police Department would like to thank Judge Speelman, Prosecutor Fox, the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office and the Coldwater Police Dept. K9 unit for all assistance. 

 
August 5-11, 2020 
 

Aspire Announces Adult Readiness Education

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

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

St. Marys Aspire is online only at the present.

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

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

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

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

After

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
August 1-4, 2020 
 

Parkway High School Releases Schedule Pick Up Dates

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

     Monday, August 10 - Seniors 

     Tuesday, August 11 - Juniors

     Wednesday, August 12 - Sophomores 

     Thursday, August 13 - Freshmen

     Friday, August 14 - Any high school students

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

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

Mendon American Legion Post to Meet

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

Vantage Announces Orientation Dates

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

MONDAY, AUGUST 10 

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

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

TUESDAY, AUGUST 11

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
July 29-31, 2020 
 

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

Booklet by Harrison Frech on Sale in Rockford Village Office

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

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

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

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

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

Click on smaller thumbnails below to enlarge them.

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

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

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

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

Symptomatic healthcare workers

Any symptomatic resident of Mercer County

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Case #55 in 10-19 age range

Case #56 in 50-59 age range

Case #57 in 70-79 age range

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

 
July 27-28, 2020 
 

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

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

Rockford Bicentennial Committee to Meet Soon

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

Writer’s Club Launches Book

By Barbara Moore

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
July 16-26, 2020 
 

Parkway Class of 1980 Cancels 2020 Reunion – Looks to 2021

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

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

ANN ESSELSTEIN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUNDRAISER
By Ryan and Leah Thompson

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

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

c/o Mercer County Civic Foundation

401 East Street

Rockford, Ohio 45882

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visit www.paulaschumm.com for more about Paula

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
July 10-15, 2020 
 

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

Click on each photo below to enlarge them. 

 
July 5-9, 2020 
 

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

We love our commUNITY !!

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

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

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

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

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

• Also some incentives for commercial or industrial facilities


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

 
July 1-4, 2020 
Happy Independence Day!
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
June 29-30, 2020 
 

Nikki Fox shared this photo.

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

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

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

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

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

Celina Police Department Makes Arrests 06/29/2020

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

Those incarcerated in the Mercer Co. Jail include:

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

            and possession of drug paraphernalia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
June 15-28, 2020 
 

Garden Walk Planned in Rockford

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

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

D’Wight Sheets President - Old Fashioned Farmers 

St. Anthony Dinner Theater will go on

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

Temple Family Announces Newest Daughter

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

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

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

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

Rockford Carnegie Library’s Summer Reading Program

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

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

It is our goal to keep everyone safe but also give kids some normalcy this summer. We know how important it is for social interaction and play therefore intend on providing in-library programming. Just like previous summers the same program will run for a week and be provided more than once to accommodate everyone’s schedule. The only difference is we ask that you pre-register by calling, stopping in, or messaging the library on Facebook. Your welcome to pick a day/time and sign up for the whole 6 weeks. Programming will be limited to 10 children in each room during each time slot. Programs will start June 23 and run till July 29 as follows: Tuesday’s 10:30-11:30, 12:30-1:30, & 2-3 also Wednesday’s 10:30-11:30 & 12:30-1:30. There will be an evening program on Thursday, 7/16 from 6:30-7:30. Preschool (5 & under) and school age (6-12) will be in separate rooms. The kids will enjoy a story, craft, game, and snack. Please let us know of any allergies.

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

For participants age 0-18 there is no maximum number of minutes or books that need to be read. We want you to have fun reading about what you enjoy and at your own pace this summer. Prizes will be drawn at random for those signed up at our finale party. You do not have to be present to win.

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

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

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

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

READ, Have Fun and Stay Safe this Summer!

Honor Flight Cancels Fall Flights

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Corn in Right of Way

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

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

CHIP & SEAL SEASON

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart is announcing that crews will be starting the yearly chip and seal work on approximately 120 miles of rural local roads in Mercer County.

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

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

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

 
June 5-14, 2020 
 

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

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

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

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

Rockford Carnegie Library is Now Open

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

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

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

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

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

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

New Mendon American Legion Post #2019 to be Chartered

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

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

Eagle Barn Quilt Latest in Trail

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mercer Health Offers COVID-19 Antibody Testing

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

The following should be noted:

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

Results:

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

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

A negative result can indicate:

An individual has not been exposed

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

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

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

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

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

Location and Times:

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

Other Locations:

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

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

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

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

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

2020-2021 Parkway Preschool

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

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

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

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

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

Lily Hipply

 
June 1-4, 2020 
 

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

ROCKFORD HISTORY NOTE:

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

ROCKFORD HISTORY NOTE:

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

Rockford History Note:

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

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

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

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

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

 
May 25-31, 2020 
 

Tribolet and Johnson Engagement & Wedding Announced

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

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

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

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

 
May 21-24, 2020 
Happy Memorial Day Weekend!
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Click on smaller thumbnail pictures below to enlarge.

 
May 18-20, 2020 
 

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

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

Gun Raffle Ongoing in Rockford to Benefit Bicentennial

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

To purchase tickets -

Check to: Leota Braun Foundation
memo - 2020 Gun Raffle

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

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

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

Parkway Incoming Kindergarten Students for 2020-2021

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

June 2020 Feel Good Friday Concerts Cancelled

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

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

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

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

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

Congratulations to our Vantage seniors, Class of 2020!

Bicentennial Committee Postpones Meeting

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

Will be talking about rest of year schedule of events.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
May 12-17, 2020 
 

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

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

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

Cory Scott Agler

Tori Olivia Albright

Trevor Michael Barker

Colton Gregory Barna

Rachel Leia Barrett

Rachael Renee Beair

Christopher Allen Bechtold

Kaylee Darlene Bixler

Makasha Yvette Bixler

Carley Jean Boeckman

Rachel Elizabeth Breese

Preston James Browning

Aaron Gregory Bruns

Breyden Alan Bruns

Adam Noah Buffenbarger

Ansley Nicole Burtch

Alexis Morgan Cairns

Ashlyn Olive Cornett

Corbin Everett Cox

Zoey Elizabeth Dawn Crouch

Sidney Mae Doner

Chad Thomas Drayton

Claire Catherine Eichler

Thomas Anthony Etzler

Brooklyn Conor Fairchild

Kevin Douglas Fonner

Wesley Thomas Ford

Ryann Kelly Fox

Justin Roberts Frank

Emma Rain Gause

Courtney Marie Harding

Leah Renee Harshman

Katie Nicole Hauter

Jacob Robert Haver

Nicholas William Hawk

Macy Ryan Henkle

Ryan D Hesse

Lily Irene Hipply

McKenna Briann Johnson

Caleb Allen Kinney

Kristine Ann Kirby

Chandler Lee Krogman

Clarissa Jean Krogman

Kaitlin Julianna LaBrun

Mason Quinn Landers

Bryce Anthony Isaac Lowery

Reece Daniel Luginbill

Jason Andrew Luth

Brooke Elisabeth Kay May

Emma Korynn May

Sophia Rose Miller

Caitlin Elise Murphy

Trey Joseph Ransbottom

Hailey Jo Roberts

Kiersten Nicole Roehm

Grace Elizabeth Rogers

Kendall Thomas Roof

Kyle Andrew Roth

Olivia Lauren Rutledge

David John Sheets

Darick John Stachler

Monica Sue Steen

Hailey Nicole Stephenson

Gavin Walker Stober

Violet Rose Eileen Taylor

McKenna Jo Temple

Shaelyn Lirit Thomas

Alexander Charles Tisdale

Corey Mitchell Walls

Alexander Lowell Welker

Ashlyn Elizabeth White

Sydney Renee Yoder

Kaine Michael Younker

Emily Grace Zimmerman

Olivia Renee Zimmerman

Clara Verena Hellwarth (Junior), 3 year graduate

 
May 8-11, 2020 
 

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

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

Note from Rockford Mayor - Amy Joseph regarding Rockford Bicentennial celebration

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

PERI Chapter Meeting Cancelled

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

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

Rockford Carnegie Library offering limited curbside services to patrons

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
May 2-7, 2020  
 

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

Rockford Carnegie Library Board of Trustees Postpone Meeting Date

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

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

Rockford Memorial Day 2020 Finalization

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

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

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

Sheriff Jeff Grey Announces Drug Arrest

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

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

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

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

Celina Police Department Make Arrests 

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
May 1, 2020 
 

Van Wert Health Announces Open Call for Photos

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

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

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

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

Parkway Announces Graduation Pick-up

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

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

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

Mercer Health Releases Re-Opening Schedule

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

Opening Friday, May 1st

Cardiology Testing

Medical Imaging/Radiology

Mercer Health Medical Group offices

Outpatient Center, including Pain Management Center

 Respiratory

Surgery, not requiring overnight stay

Opening Monday, May 4th

Community Sports and Therapy, Coldwater location will reopen

Opening Friday, May 8th

Disease Management Center

On-Hold

Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation

Center for Healthy Weight and Wellness

Doctors’ Urgent Care

Hazelnut

Lactation Visits

Outreach Events

Sleep Care Center

The Cedar Table

The Hospitality Gift Shop

Volunteer Services

 
April 27-30, 2020 
 

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

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

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

Parkway Schools Levy Income Tax Renewal Passed

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

Van Wert Health Announces Health Care Scholarship Winners

Van Wert, OH -- Van Wert Health announced winners of the 2020 Medical and Health Care Scholarship, an award for high school seniors pursuing continuing education within health care professions.

The field was extremely competitive this year with applications from over 100 high-achieving students. The selected candidates are a group of ambitious and talented students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, academic excellence, and a commitment to helping shape the future of health care.

“Each year, I am amazed by the accomplishments of our area students. The Van Wert Health scholarship program is an investment in our community – an investment in a healthier future,” said Jim Pope, President and CEO of Van Wert Health. “The program is part of a larger effort to address the nationwide shortage of healthcare workers. It really is a no-brainer for us to invest in this amazing group of scholars who wish to enter health care careers.”

The 2020 recipients, who will each receive a $1,000 scholarship which may be renewed for a total of 4 years, are:  

• Katie Strayer, Paulding High School

• Jayla Rostorfer, Jefferson High School

• Kylee Hoersten, Ottoville High School

• Claire Eiden, Ottawa-Glandorf High School

• Delaney Eyanson, Van Wert High School

DITCH MAINTENANCE SPRAYING BEGINS

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart is announcing that crews are tentatively scheduled to begin the 2020 herbicidal spray application of various open drainage ditches located in Mercer County. Only those ditches that are on the county maintenance program maintained by the Mercer County Engineer’s Office will be sprayed.

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

Weather permitting, the tentatively scheduled completion date for this year’s herbicidal spray application is May 31, 2020.  Any landowner having questions or concerns regarding the herbicide application, should contact the Mercer County Engineer’s Office, 4195867759.

Rockford Memorial Day 2020 Update

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

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

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

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

Rockford Area Social Distancing Activity

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

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

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

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

Free Dinners on Wednesdays at Rockford United Methodist Church

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
April 21-26, 2020 
 

Baltzell Siblings Announce New Sister

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

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

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

Rockford Community Announcements and events:

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

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

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

                        Department vehicles on site

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

Tuesday – Mary 12 – Brush Pick up

 
April 11-20, 2020
Happy Easter! 
 

Lakefield Airport Authority Board Meeting

April 13, 2020 Meeting has been CANCELLED.

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

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

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

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

This is OHIO STATE wide.

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

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

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

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

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

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

·         Respiratory symptoms have improved.

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

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

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

By Kristy Fryman, Emergency Response Coordinator 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Kristy Fryman, Emergency Response Coordinator 

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

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

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

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

Spring planting & open ditch maintenance

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

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

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

Van Wert County Board of Health Meeting

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

Road Closures (early-mid April)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our News Release: Mercer County Youth to Youth Retreat Held

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
April 4-10, 2020 
 

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

Local Veteran Receives Plaque

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

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

VWCF Accepting Grant Applications

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

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

This grant cycle unveils a new application process and program. The Online Grants Manager compiles information and support materials for The Van Wert County Foundation’s software system for managing online applications and grants. This new process allows grantees an easy way to see the status of a grant, check due dates, and submit electronic grant reports (if required). 

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

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

OHSAA Announces Tentative Details for Spring Sports Seasons

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

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

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

State tournament venues listed below are subject to change.

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

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

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

SPRING SPORTS OVERVIEW

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

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

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

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

-         State tournament venues listed below are subject to change.

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

BASEBALL

State tournament dates determined by availability of Akron Canal Park.  

Acclimation Period – May 4-8

Season Begins – May 9

Tournament Entry/Withdrawal – May 11

Tournament Draw/Coaches Meeting – May 17

Sectional Tournaments – May 23-30

District Tournaments – June 1-6

Regional Tournaments – June 11-12

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

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

SOFTBALL

Acclimation Period – May 4-8

Season Begins – May 9

Tournament Entry/Withdrawal – May 18

Tournament Draw/Coaches Meeting – May 24

Sectional Tournaments – May 30-June 6

District Tournaments – June 8-13

Regional Tournaments – June 15-20

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

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

LACROSSE

Acclimation Period – May 4-8

Season Begins – May 9

Tournament Entry/Withdrawal – May 18

Tournament Draw/Coaches Meeting – May 25

Regional Qualifying – May 26-30

Regional Tournaments – June 1-7

State Semifinals – June 8-10

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

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

BOYS TENNIS

Acclimation Period – May 4-8

Season Begins – May 9

Tournament Entry/Withdrawal – May 18

Tournament Draw/Coaches Meeting – May 24

Sectional Tournaments – May 30-June 6

District Tournaments – June 8-13

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