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March 23-29, 2023
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 18 years!
The Parkway Independent is 18 years old!
 

Parkway 2nd Graders Rock The Niswonger
By Tafi Stober

(Van Wert, OH) Over 70 Rockstars-In-Training made the Niswonger stage their destination for learning and lively fun on Wednesday, March 8, 2023. The Van Wert Live Team presented a Niswonger Behind The Scenes Experience that transformed the students into Rockstars for the day. Tour Guides, Gary Taylor, Bill Clifton, Greg Blackmore, and Amy Lyons led the students to four stations (Box Office - Amy McGovern and Jerry Beard, Marketing + Creatives - Quincy Thompson and Weston Thompson, Greenroom (Michelle Agler), and Stage - Hugh Saunier and Matt Saunier) that provided insights on how artists are selected, contracted, and marketed before the big show takes place.

Parkway 2nd Grade Teacher Zachary Bates shares, "Students got a taste of all the different pieces that make a production successful. This hands-on behind-the-scenes experience was awesome for our students and really excited them about what  The Niswonger has to offer to our community. The Van Wert Live team is top-notch!"

The two-hour experience is an opportunity for the Van Wert Live Team to introduce The Niswonger as a resource for young leaders to experience cultural events. The facility has enabled the arts to flourish for families throughout the region with the average Niswonger customer traveling from 32 miles for a show.  

Van Wert Live events are presented by The Van Wert Areas Performing Arts Foundation, a supporting 501c3 of The Van Wert County Foundation. The organization's vision is to make Van Wert an entertainment destination by providing experiences that are so good they demand a return. The Behind The Scenes Experience aligns with that mission and supports cultivating arts enthusiasts.

The enthusiasm was evident from Parkway 2nd Grade student, Lily Caffee. "It was really fun. It was my favorite field trip that I have ever been on," shared Lilly.

More information about Van Wert Live events can be found at vanwertlive.com or by contacting the Box Office at 419-238-6722.

First UM Church announces Lenten and Resurrection Services

First United Methodist Church, located at 113 W. Central Avenue in Van Wert, Ohio is planning their upcoming Lenten and Resurrection services.

Palm Sunday, April 2 will feature children and choir processing with palm leaves at the 8:15 and 10:45am services.  Pastor Chris Farmer will give the sermon: “When Christ Comes to Town” based on the scripture from Matthew 21:1-11 The 8:15am early service features a casual style of worship, while the 10:45am service features traditional liturgy and music.

On Maundy Thursday, April 6, we invite all members of the Community to join us in Celebrating “Christ in the Passover” with the Trinity Friends Church.  This worshipful event will begin at 6:30 PM at Trinity Friends Church.  Pre-registration is required. 

First Church will host the traditional community Good Friday service on April 7 beginning at 12:05pm.  The service will begin with a procession of the cross beginning at 11:50am from the corner of Cherry and E Main Streets, in front of the YWCA. After processing down Main Street to First Church, the service will begin with a special offering being taken for ‘Haven of Hope.’ This is an initiative to address homelessness in Van Wert County. Special music will also be incorporated in this community service. The greater Van Wert community is invited to attend and worship together.

Resurrection, or Easter Sunday, April 9 will be celebrated in all its glory and splendor during both of our Worship experiences at 8:15 and 10:45 AM.  Brass instruments will be featured at the 10:45 worship experience along with the Chancel Choir in a regal service celebrating the resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ.  Pastor Chris Farmer will be delivering the sermon: “Filled with New Life” from the scripture of Matthew 28:1-10. 

If you are looking for a church home or haven’t been to church in a while, the loving congregation of First United Methodist and Pastor Chris Farmer invite you to celebrate this blessed season with them.

Parkway Middle School 3rd Quarter Honor Roll

By Kristi Dodds, secretary

5th Grade:  

Highest Honor Roll

Bransteter, Hunter 

England, Jackson 

Hays, Meadow 

Keeran, Emily 

Menchhofer, Bailee 

Pond, Jenna 

Trent, Cameo 

Wannemacher, Avah

High Honor Roll

Art, Autumn 

Baker, Chloe 

Bransteter, Kallee 

Burtch, Althea 

Byer, Zion 

Clay, Hudsen 

Everett, Brynlee 

Flory, Caile 

Gage, Kolten 

Gibbons, Lydia 

Harvey, Annabelle 

Heiser, Landyn 

Houser, Frank 

Knapke, Ryder 

Long, Ainsley 

Long, Braylin 

Molloy, Adelaide 

Moorman, Holly 

Norris, Kenlee 

Shellabarger, Elliot 

Shirk, Elijah 

Sill, Oliver 

Sipe, Sophie 

Snell, Claire 

Snell, Paige 

Tawoj, Julien 

Tickle, Savannah 

Vannette, Waylon 

Young, Briar 

Honor Roll

Abromavich, Carter 

Abromavich, Meah 

England, Madilyn 

Gile, Miranda 

Gruss, Kinlee

Hague, Jasmine 

Krugh, Evan 

Luginbill, Brynn 

Miller, Makinley 

Nichols, Cyrus 

Norris, Harper 

Shaffer, Gibson 

Springer, Olimar 

Suman, Reagan 

Taylor, Dexter 

Twigg, Hayden 

_____________________________________

6th Grade:

Highest Honor Roll

Brehm, Kallie 

Cottman, Lydia 

Knapke, Isabelle 

Korte, Cohen 

Stover, Jaxson

Tong, Carson 

Triplett, Savada 

High Honor Roll

Baucher, Alivia 

Burnett, Halen 

Burtch, Brooklyn 

Eller, Kade 

Ford, Kayliann 

Hays, Ella 

Hileman, Maxton 

Imwalle, Allison 

Jacobs, Aubrey 

Korte, Bosten 

Laux, Ezekiel (Zeke) 

Louth, Chase 

Luginbill, Rogan 

McDorman, Sierra 

Nichols, Lindsay 

Orick, James 

Piper, Michael 

Severt, Steven 

Sinning, Stella 

Sipe, Abigail 

Stover, Hadley 

Winget, Gabriel (Gabe) 

Honor Roll

Baker, Jacklyn (Jackie)

Bradley, Branson 

Carpenter, Sage 

Fent, Emma 

Fisher, Gavin 

Green, Frank 

James, Damarion (D) 

Neuenschwander, Mazie 

Rodriguez-Perez, Angel 

Sidle, Izyk 

Uncapher, Baylee 

Yoder, Greer 

Zizelman, Corbin 

____________________________

7th Grade:

Highest Honor Roll

Eichler, Lydia 

Menchhofer, Isaac 

Peel, Jaymin 

Stolly, Ethan 

Williamson, Abigail

High Honors

Anderson, Trey 

Bransteter, Case 

Christian, Kayden 

Clay, Makynlie 

England, Carter 

Fox, Levon 

Garrity, Sterling 

Harner, Ellie 

Heitkamp, Nicole 

Hess, Kymberly 

Ketchum, Colin 

Kraner, Addilynn 

Lyons, Branson 

Mathewson, Mason Minnich, Trevor 

Moeller, Elayna 

Muhlenkamp, Peyton 

Noll, Andee 

Pennell, Piper 

Poe, Caleb 

Rasbach, Chayse 

Ross, Jackson (Jack) 

Roth, Albany 

Schmidt, Amelia 

Schumm, Drayden 

Schwieterman, Perry 

Stauffer, Carson 

Stover, KJae 

Suzuki, Cohen 

Thomas, Cade 

Trisel, William (Will) 

Twigg, Tyson 

Honor Roll

Bollenbacher, Jaxson 

Buogo, Maria 

Byer, Uriah 

Dorsten, Naomi 

Fireoved, Austin 

Glosser, Lacey 

Hague, Jordan 

Henning, Sophia 

Keller, Cael 

Muhlenkamp, Ella Murphy, Marley 

Nuttle, Dylan 

Painter, Bryson 

Petit, Jonathan 

Ravine, Payton 

Reigle, Nathan 

Strickland, Natalie 

Tangeman, Cooper 

Tarilang, Dora 

Welling, Eric 

Whitaker, Magnus 

Williams, Obadiah 

Yaney, Addyson (Addy)

__________________________________

8th Grade:

Highest Honor Roll

Bennett, Charles (Charlie)

Hughes, Megan 

Pancake, Wyatt 

Stover, Madelyn 

Young, Isabell 

High Honors

Ackley, Mason 

Arnold, Kelsie 

Bentz, Morgan 

Blount, Freya 

Bollenbacher, Dylan 

Booher, Luke 

Carpenter, Rhen 

Denney, Bethany 

Eguia, Piper 

Everett, Aisley 

Fullenkamp, Kara 

Hays, Lillian 

Kiser, Faith 

Knapke, Austin 

Louth, Morgan 

Quickstad, Jaymie 

Reigle, Brody 

Rich, Magdalene 

Ridenour, Gwyneth 

Rogers, Adalynn 

Sheets, Luke 

Shirk, Robert 

Sites, Lexie 

Tickle, Samuel 

Triplett, Jacoby 

Winters, Tobin 

Younker, Kylie

Honor Roll

Bailey, Zavior 

Brister, Gage 

Buckner, Sasha 

Clay, Holden 

Haines, Oliver 

Kellermeyer, Kelsie 

Lange, Jayda 

Langenkamp, Cami 

Litteral, Kohen 

Miller, Mackenzie 

Pennell, Peyton 

Rutledge, Tyler 

Taylor, Deagan Thomas, Jensen 

Wenning, Jaden

Westgerdes, Gavin 

Williams, Arwen 

Winget, Grace

Rockford Area Development Corporation
The RADC plans to meet Monday, March 27 at 7 pm in the Rockford Library. We are making plans for a much larger meeting scheduled for April 25th with Jared Ebbing and Dave Buschur. 

The Ohio State University Marching Band To Perform At The Niswonger

By Tafi Stober

(Van Wert, OH) - Van Wert Live is pleased to announce the grand return of The Ohio State University Marching Band to the Niswonger Performing Arts Center presented by Jeffery-Mohr Family Dentistry on Wednesday, November 1, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. The nationally recognized, 228-piece “Pride of the Buckeyes” is one of the few college all-brass-and-percussion bands in the U.S. and is acknowledged as the largest of its type in the world. The Ohio State University Marching Band performs for all Ohio State Buckeye home football games, selected away games, postseason bowl games, and additional events during the autumn semester. It has been a decade since the band traveled to Northwest, Ohio. Their return is made possible by Presenting Sponsor Jeffery-Mohr Family Dentistry and Supporting Sponsors, Mel & Arlene Hurless and Edward Jones office of Eric Hurless, The Ohio State Alumni Association of Van Wert and Paulding Counties, and JoAnne Wolford.

Many marching band innovations were first tried and developed at Ohio State. Among them are floating and animated formations, measured-step marching, script writing, the fast cadence with a high knee lift, and the enhancement of rehearsals and performances through the implementation of new technologies. Brass instruments specially designed for marching bands were also first used at Ohio State. In 2013, the band garnered national attention for using iPads, a sustainable alternative to paper charts and music, to facilitate its rehearsal process.

More recently, the band cheered the Buckeyes on to victory at the first-ever College Football Playoff National Championship game in January 2015, took its talents abroad in October 2015 for a performance at an NFL International Series game at Wembley Stadium in London, performed at Fiesta Bowls to conclude the 2015, 2016, and 2019 seasons and at the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic to conclude the 2017 season. The band also marched in the 2018 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City along with the 2019 and 2022 Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game in California.

Grounded in tradition yet propelled by innovation, The Ohio State University Marching Band, year in and year out, lives up to its nickname: The Best Damn Band in the Land.

Dr. Christopher Hoch is in his seventh year as director of Marching and Athletic Bands at The Ohio State University. An assistant professor in Ohio State’s School of Music, Dr. Hoch holds the Endowed Chair for the Director of The Ohio State University Marching Band and also serves as associate director of university bands.

Prior to his appointment, he served one year as interim director, two years as associate director, and one year as assistant director of the Marching and Athletic Bands at Ohio State. In addition, he served three years as director of The Ohio State University Marching Band Alumni and seven years as director of bands at Rutherford B. Hayes High School in Delaware, Ohio.

Dr. Hoch’s work with The Ohio State University Marching Band has received national and international recognition for innovation and creativity in show design; he has been the architect behind many of the shows that have been watched by millions of people on YouTube and at sites across the country.

Ticket for The OSUMB from $19-49 are available now to Van Wert Live Members. General Sales begin on Friday, April 7. VWLive Memberships begin as low as $100 and provide 365 days of early buying opportunities and a 10% discount for Van Wert Live events. Memberships and tickets can be purchased at vanwertlive.com or through the Box Office Mon-Fri from 10A to 3P / 419-238-6722.

The Van Wert Area Performing Arts Foundation presenting VWLive events is powered by the Van Wert County Foundation. 2023 Annual sponsors helping keep ticket prices low are Central Insurance, Statewide Ford, and First Federal Bank of Van Wert. The Box Office is located within the Niswonger Performing Arts Center, 10700 SR 118 S, Van Wert.

Join St. Paul’s Country Church and Chatt Methodist Church for their joint Lenten Wednesday Evening Service
Sunday Services at St. Paul’s

The memberships of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH and Chatt United Methodist Church invite you to join them for the Lenten Service at Chatt United Methodist Church with Pastor Mike Husted providing the “Amazing Grace” message at 7 PM on Wednesday, March 22, 2023. Community is welcome.

Offering goes to C.A.L.L. Ministries.

Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit on Sunday, March 26, 2023. Based on John 11:1-26, the title is “Do You Believe?”.

Sunday school is at 9:15 AM. Children’s Junior Church is every Sunday except the last Sunday of the month. We offer Bible based lessons and children’s activities. Snacks included.

Please call the church office for Pastor Mike at 419-942-1374 for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome.

March 16-22, 2023
 

On Tuesday, March 14, 2023 Celina Police, with Walmart loss prevention staff, conducted a surveillance of suspected thieves inside the store.  Officers and employees witnessed two men, 47 year old Colin Bradburn of Portland, Indiana and his son 23 year old Prestin Bradburn of Mercer County, Ohio concealing merchandise and then going to a self-checkout.

Both men left the store and were stopped inside their car on the parking lot.  They obtained nearly $1000 in merchandise without paying.  Both have been banned from Walmart stores in the past.  During the arrest they were found in possession of meth as well as criminal tools.

Both men have been incarcerated in the Mercer Co. Jail pending review by the Mercer County Prosecutor Erin Miner.  Multiple charges are expected which may include drug possession, theft, burglary and possession of criminal tools.

Colin Bradburn also has a warrant for his arrest from Auglaize County and has been denied bond.  Prestin Bradburn is being held on $50,000 bond. 

Ohio Statewide Tornado Drill

Wednesday, March 22nd at 9:50 AM

Western Ohio Civil War Roundtable to Meet
Ike Coate will present the March 23, 2023 program for the Western Ohio Civil War Roundtable. Ike currently serves as Treasurer of our organization. He is probably our most experienced member, having taken many battlefield trips over the years. Often, when he speaks at one of our meetings, it is the voice of experience coming through. Ike is always a good speaker because of his vast wealth of first-hand knowledge. His topic for Thursday evening will be General George Meade, Union Commander at Gettysburg. With only three days to prepare his army for battle, Meade won the victor’s laurels in what is likely the most important battle ever fought in North America. When Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia vacated the Pennsylvania battlefield, there was no doubt that they had been whipped. The military brass in Washington DC were not content to have won the victory, they wanted Lee’s Army destroyed. It seemed like every time there was a fight, Washington set the standard measure of expectation at army annihilation. Yet, it rarely happened. When Lee’s army crossed the Potomac back into Virginia, the military felt a great opportunity was lost. Our March 23 meeting will come to order at 7:15 PM. We will meet at the Richardson Bretz Building in downtown Celina, 119 West Fulton Street. Public invited.

Parkway Local Schools Board of Education will hold a Special Meeting
The Parkway Local Schools Board of Education will hold a Special Meeting on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room.  The purpose of the meeting will be to hire personnel, approve the purchase of a school bus and to go into executive session to discuss personnel.  No action will be taken after the executive session.

Mercer County Youth to Youth Retreats Held

The Mercer County Youth to Youth (Y2Y) Retreats were held in February. The Retreat was held February 18th from 9 am – 9 pm (5th-7th grade) and the Mini Retreat was held February 25th  from 9 am-5 pm at St. John Lutheran Church (Purple Door) in Celina. Forty-one 5th-7th grade students and fifty two 2nd-4th grade students attended the Retreats this year!

This year’s theme was “Keep SPACE between you and drugs.” The students had missions to complete with each of their family groups. After completing each mission, they earned a puzzle piece to create each planet in succession closer to Earth. This activated the Rocketship to move closer to Earth and farther from drugs. They all made it safely!

The Retreats were under the direction of Space Captain Laura Sanford, prevention specialist at Foundations Behavioral Health Services and an adult ally for the Mercer County Y2Y group.  These youth-led prevention Retreats were led by sixteen 7th-12th grade students from the Mercer County Y2Y group. Twenty adult volunteers also made these events 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 these youth-led Retreats is 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 all taught a positive coping skill including team building and communication, five senses to calm self, exercise/sports, art, music, and positive self-talk. All students also participated in a How To session of their choice to learn a new skill or hobby.

The youth participated in plenty of energizers led by the leaders. Students also participated in an astronaut decorating contest competition among family groups. At the end of the Retreats, the parents/guardians received a presentation about the dangers of vaping and the importance of talking to their teens with conversations that really matter. Then they all joined together and watched a video presentation of the day and each Family Group shared about an escape room they attended to make it back to Earth.

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 take charge of their mental health and were encouraged to share this message with others.

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. A thank you to Stage Right Productions for donating sound equipment for us to use at our events. A special thanks to Allison and Megan Baucher who were our photographers and Allison for putting together the video presentations for both Retreats. We are very grateful to Purple Door Church for hosting us again this year. Much appreciation goes to the guidance counselors, principals, and school secretaries for their efforts in recruiting students for the Retreats and collecting applications, the media for advertising the Retreats, 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 7th-12th grade Mercer County Y2Y leaders. Those youth leaders include: Celina HS: Destiny Anderson, Hannah Koester; Celina MS: Noah Strombach, Ella Driggs, and Emma Byrne; Coldwater HS: Makenzie Norris, Aiden Norris, Kolton Gehm, Emma Wehnes; Coldwater MS: Alaina Froning; Fort Recovery HS: Tiffany Taft, Bella Taft, Paul Homan, Jose Martinez, Elisa Evers; St. Henry MS: Taylor Schoonover.

A special thanks to Ali Foster who greatly helped with creative ideas for many of the escape rooms and those who led escape rooms or taught How To sessions: AJ Kunk (Fixing Gravity), Paul Homan (Dispersion); Ali Foster and Nevin Sackinger (Captain’s Quarters); Tom Sanford (Operation Positive Talk) and Craig Muhlenkamp for planning this escape room; Shelby Bravo (Repair the Starry Night; Creative Expressions/Sketching and Scribbles), Elena and Elisa Evers (Return to the Rhythm Rocket); Shelly and Doug Moorman (Archery and Backyard Bass); Diamond Long and Beau Koester from Young Guardians MMA (Boxing); Andrea Cahill from Hot Brass Personal Defense (Self-Defense); Candy Hemmelgarn and kids (Take a Bow-Acting); Barb Lockwood from Cakes by Design (Baking with Barb); and Joan Wedd (Old Fashioned Games).

Thanks to the adult leaders of the Family Groups: Carl Wuebker, Lexi Allmandinger, Danielle Williams, Amber Mustard, Ashley Smith, Jen Smith, Julie Krieg, Kaitlyn Sparks, Nevin Sackinger, and Sabrina Downing. 

The Retreats were funded from a generous grant from the Mercer County Civic Foundation and Midwest Electric's Community Connection Fund (Gold Level); Mercer Health, ASSURE (Area Suicide and Support Resources), and Pax Machine Works (Sponsor Level); Preferred Insurance Center, Celina Grand Lake FOE Women’s Auxiliary, McDonald's of Mercer County, Foundations Behavioral Health Services, Grand Lake Health Systems, Mercer County Health District (Mentor Level); Eagle Eye Home Inspections of Ohio, LLC, Renewed Hope Financial Coaching, LLC, Mercer County Prevention Coalition, Cakes By Design, Hot Brass Personal Defense, Arrow N Bows, Young Guardians MMA, and Stage Right Productions (Donor Level).

Our Mercer County Youth to Youth Meetings are held the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month from 6:30-8:30 pm at the Foundations Clubhouse, 221 S. Buckeye Street, Celina. 7th-12th graders invited who want to make a difference.

If you want more information about the Mercer County Youth to Youth group, please contact Laura at lauras@foundationsbhs.org or 419-584-1000, check out our Facebook group, or YouTube channel. Our closing videos of the Retreats as well as our promo video for the Youth to Youth group can all be found on our YouTube channel.

March 9-15, 2023
 

Join St. Paul’s Country Church and Chatt Methodist Church for their joint Lenten Wednesday Evening Service
Sunday Services at St. Paul’s

The memberships of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH and Chatt United Methodist Church invite you to join them for the Lenten Service at St. Paul’s Country Church with Pastor Tom Brunstrup providing the “Amazing Grace” message at 7 PM on Wednesday, March 15, 2023. Community is welcome.

Offering goes to C.A.L.L. Ministries.

Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit on Sunday, March 19, 2023. Based on John 9:1-11, the title is “Children of Light”.

Sunday school is at 9:15 AM. Children’s Junior Church is every Sunday except the last Sunday of the month. We offer Bible based lessons and children’s activities. Snacks included.

Please call the church office for Pastor Mike at 419-942-1374 for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome.

Parkway’s Celebration of National FFA Week
By Amanda Barrett, FFA Reporter

Above: Tractor Drive-in.

Parkway FFA Week National FFA Week is a time for FFA members all around the country to celebrate the organization. The 2023 annual event took place Feb. 18-25, 2023. Parkway had many fun events going on at the school during this exciting week including, a truck and tractor drive-in, pie baking contest, dress-up days, lunch games, ag-related trivia questions, and a petting zoo for the elementary students.

Throughout the week a canned food drive was held in the elementary, middle, and high schools. The total amount of cans collected was 1,682, all of the cans were donated to Helping Hands in Rockford and Call Food Bank in Celina. On Friday the sophomore class was in charge of putting the FFA luncheon together, and provided meat from Green’s Quality Meats in Celina, hot side dishes, desserts, and drinks.

On the last day of FFA week, the officer team put together an assembly for the high school students. FFA members participated in games like barrel racing, straw stacking, and the farmer's race.

Since 1974 FFA has been celebrating the great agricultural workers through FFA week and plans to celebrate for many more years to come.

Above: Pie baking contest
 

Below: Hay Bale Race

March 12, 2023 - Daylight Saving Time Starts

When local standard time is about to reach:

Sunday, March 12, 2023, 2:00:00 am clocks are turned forward 1 hour to
Sunday, March 12, 2023, 3:00:00 am local daylight time instead.

Sunrise and sunset will be about 1 hour later on Mar 12, 2023 than the day before. There will be more light in the evening.

Also called Spring Forward, Summer Time, and Daylight Savings Time.

Some states are considering keeping this time permanent, however, Ohio, at this time, plans to Fall Back one hour on November 5, 2023 at 2AM

Harrison Frech sharing the  "Lost Soldier of Chickamauga"

Isaac Van Wart D.A.R. was privileged to have Mr. Harrison Frech, a local historian, speak to our group in February 2023. Mr. Frech shared the story of rediscovering the identity of Hugh Thompson. Mr. Frech became interested in Hugh after reading a short entry about him leaving Van Wert County for the Civil War in a book on Van Wert County History. Hugh fought and was injured in the Battle of Chickamauga during the Civil War. Mr. Thompson developed amnesia after a blow to his head in 1863. Thoughout later years Hugh gradually regained a few memories which helped him recall some of his past. A Veterans Association assisted him in filling in some of the details of his life and finding his family after 20 years. Many of the pension investigators doubted his presumed identity and considered him a fraud. This led to extensive files contained in 3 boxes and 9 folders at the National Archives in Washington, D.C. Mr. Frech was able to sort through all the information to confirm Hugh Thompson as a Van Wert Native and a Civil War Veteran.

Anyone interested in learning more about joining the Isaac Van Wart Daughters of the American Revolution is invited to email Mickey McConahay at: mcconahay@watchtv.net.

Farm Focus Inc. Scholarship

By Tony Campbell

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

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

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

degree in an agricultural related field.
                                                                                   

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

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

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

from previous years can reapply again this year.

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

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

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

Counselor, or FFA Instructor for your scholarship application. 
 

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

All completed applications must be emailed, mailed and postmarked or delivered in person no later than March 31, 2023, to the OSU Van Wert County Extension Office.

6th Annual Empty Bowls Mercer County Dinner & Auction

On Saturday, April 1, 2023, Our Home Family Resource Center will host its 6th Annual Empty Bowls Mercer County Dinner & Auction at the American Legion Post 210 in Celina. The doors will open at 5:30 pm, with the event beginning at 6:00 pm. Tickets are now available for purchase.

A $30 admission ticket includes an artist-made souvenir bowl, salad bar, soup buffet, and dessert, with a cash bar available. Dinner will be followed by a four-flight silent auction featuring various items, such as tickets to regional theme parks, zoos, cultural and sporting events, and gift cards to local businesses. Door prizes and raffles will occur throughout the evening, offering multiple chances to win.

“We are humbled and thankful for the support Empty Bowls receives. The impact on our area is immeasurable. An empty bowl represents an unmet need, and whether we are addressing hunger, broken parent-child relationships, or assisting survivors of domestic and sexual assault, we are filling a bowl with hope during a community member’s time of crisis.” – Jen Yoder, Marketing & Development Coordinator.

Our Home Family Resource Center is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization helping Mercer County individuals and families survive, rebuild, and overcome for over 25 years. The organization comprises three distinct programs: Family Crisis Network, RAFT Supervised Visitation Center, and Direct Services & Referrals.

The Family Crisis Network provides a 24-hour helpline, emergency safe shelter, and advocacy for domestic violence and/or sexual assault victims. They help victims survive their trauma and build a life free from abuse. The RAFT Supervised Visitation Center monitors visits for children and their non-custodial parents, offering non-custodial parties the opportunity to rebuild relationships with their children in a comfortable, safe, and homelike environment. The Direct Services & Referrals Program offers financial assistance and a food pantry for income-eligible residents. It provides information, resources, and advice to overcome food insecurity and financial shortfalls.

Our Home also coordinates special county-wide projects, including the Mercer County Back-to-School Program, Mercer County Winter Warmth Program, and the Mercer County Angel Tree Program.

To purchase tickets for the Empty Bowls Mercer County event on April 1, 2023, visit Our Home Family Resource Center at 117 W. Fayette St., Celina, or call (419) 586-4663 ext. 1003. You can also visit www.ourhomefrc.com for more information about our programs.

Shanes Crossing Historical Society Resumes Speaker Series

The Shanes Crossing Historical Society is resuming its speaker series with a power point presentation “World War ll and the Rockford-Willshire Area” by Harrison Frech, retired local educator.  The program is about the war including examples of local people’s contributions to winning the greatest conflict in history on battlefields around the world and on the home front.  The Society’s meeting will be held on Monday, March 20th, 2023 at 7 pm at the Rockford Village Office located at 151 E Columbia St.  The public is welcome and encouraged to attend.   

EverHeart Hospice Looking for Volunteers

EverHeart Hospice is recruiting volunteers to help with patients in West Central Ohio and East Central Indiana. There are many ways people can volunteer with Hospice, but we are especially in need of hairdressers and barbers, notaries, and Veterans to honor our Veteran patients.

Other volunteer opportunities may be available depending on your area. EverHeart Hospice cares for patients in Darke, Mercer, Van Wert, Allen, Auglaize, Paulding, and Shelby Counties in Ohio, and Jay, Randolph, and Wayne Counties in Indiana.

To learn more about how you can help patients and their families, please call their office at 800-417-7535 option 5 and ask for the Volunteer Coordinator, Beverly Baltes.

To learn more, visit our website at everhearthospice.org and follow us on social media.

Western Ohio Civil War Round Table to Meet
Western Ohio Civil War Round Table will meet on  March 23, 2023

At 7:15 pm at the Richardson Bretz Building 119 W. Fulton Street Celina, Ohio Ike Coate  will speak about Gen. George Meade: From Hero to Obscurity.

Rockford Carnegie Library March Events

Indoor Scavenger Hunt All Month Long

3/6 Preschool Play Group 10-11am

      Homeschool Program 1:30-3pm

      Book Club @ 2 & 6pm

3/7 Preschool Play Group 10-11am

3/13 Preschool Play Group 10-11am

        Homeschool Program 1:30-3pm

3/14 Preschool Play Group 10-11am

3/16 St. Patrick's Themed Family Program 6:30-7:30pm

3/20 Preschool Play Group 10-11am

        Homeschool Program 1:30-3pm

3/21 Preschool Play Group 10-11am

3/27 Preschool Play Group 10-11am

        Homeschool Program 1:30-3pm

3/28 Preschool Play Group 10-11am

Shultz Huber & Associates, Inc. Promote Two

Shultz Huber & Associates, Inc. is pleased to announce that Alyssa Pluta and Kara Dahlke have been promoted to in-charge accountants. In-charge accountants work directly with clients and oversee staff accountants and accounting assistants.

Pluta joined the firm in 2021. She holds a bachelor’s degree accounting from Spring Arbor University and works in the firm’s Defiance office.

Dahlke holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Ohio Northern University. She joined the firm in 2021 and works in the St. Marys office.

The firm is hiring for a variety of public accounting positions in Archbold, Bryan, Defiance, St. Marys and Van Wert. All experience levels are welcome, including recent graduates with an accounting-related degree. To learn more or to submit a resume, visit sha.cpa/career-opportunities.

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

First United Methodist Church invites Families and Children to Preschool Open House

A Preschool Open House will be held at First United Methodist Church on Thursday, March 9 from 6:00-7:30 pm. Parents will also be able to register, tour and meet the teachers.

First Church is located at the corner of Central Avenue and Jefferson Street, across from Fountain Park.

We offer a half-day program from 8:30-11:30am two, three or four days a week. The curriculum is guided by the Ohio Department of Education's Early Learning Standards and incorporates Christian principles daily. We participate in monthly field trips, theme parties, progress monitoring and assessments, weekly Chapel, Christmas and Spring programs and much more. Our goal is to prepare children for kindergarten in a loving Christ-centered environment.

For more information please contact Administrator Marilyn Agler by phone at 419-238-0631 ext. 308, by email marilyn.agler@vanwertfirst.net  or register online at vanwertfirst.net then choose Preschool in the menu area.

LOCAL CELINA ARTIST JAN MIESSE IS FEATURED AT ART SPACE, ST MARY’S

IN A ONE WOMAN SHOW CALLED “WANDERINGS “ JAN MIESSE USES BOLD COLORS IN HER IMPRESSIONIST WORKS. A FORMER BUSINESS WOMAN IN CELINA, SHE STARTED PAINTING FOR EMOTIONAL EXPRESSION. SHE APPROACHES HER PIECES WITH A SPECIFIC EMOTION AND USES PAINT ON LARGE CANVASES TO EXPRESS
HERSELF. ART SPACE IN ST. MARYS OHIO WILL DISPLAY HER WORK
NOW THRU APRIL 13TH.
OPEN WEDNESDAY THRU SATURDAY FROM 10 TO 5PM.

Memories sought of Highland Park

Highland Park in Celina is seeking memories from current and past residents for its 100th anniversary celebration.

The residential area’s committee will prepare a booklet with these stories and memories of life and activities at Highland Park. This booklet will be sold at the Corn Roast for present and past residents on Aug. 6 from noon at the park.

Please send your memories by April 29, 2023 to the Highland Park Committee, 204 Mercer St., Celina 45822 or email virgburroughs@gmail.com.

THE VAN WERT COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT HAS BEEN AWARDED NATIONAL ACCREDITATION THROUGH THE PUBLIC HEALTH ACCREDITATION BOARD

Accreditation through PHAB demonstrates The Van Wert County Health Department's commitment to excellence in serving the community and meeting foundational needs.

Van Wert, Ohio — March 10, 2023 — The Van Wert County Health Department today announced it had been awarded national Accreditation through the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB). Established in 2007, PHAB is the non-profit organization that administers the national accreditation program, which aims to advance and transform public health practice by championing performance improvement, strong infrastructure, and innovation.

"We are so pleased to be recognized by PHAB for achieving national standards that foster effectiveness and promote continuous quality improvement," said Dr. Daryl Dowdy, MA, Ph.D. Van Wert County Health Department Commissioner. "We hope this announcement will reassure our community, partners, funders, and elected officials that the services we provide are as responsive as possible and are meeting the foundational needs of our community."

The national accreditation program, which receives support from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, sets standards against which the nation's governmental public health departments can continuously improve the quality of their services and performance. Standards emphasize Foundational Capabilities and are aligned with the 10 Essential Public Health Services. As a result, more than 80 percent of the U.S. population now reap the benefits of being served by a health department that has undergone PHAB's rigorous, multi-faceted, peer-reviewed assessment process to ensure it meets quality standards and measures.

“The value of becoming nationally accredited through PHAB extends far beyond the walls of the health department," said PHAB President and CEO Paul Kuehnert, DNP, RN, FAAN. "People living and working in communities served by these health departments can be assured that their health department is strong and has the capacity to protect and promote their health. In addition, just going through the accreditation process helps health departments pinpoint the areas critical to improving the work they do for their communities."

Often called the "backbone" of the public health system, public health departments are on the front lines of communities' efforts to protect and promote health and prevent disease and injury. Across the nation, health departments provide services aimed at promoting healthy behaviors; preventing diseases and injuries; ensuring access to safe food, water, clean air, and life-saving immunizations; and preparing for and responding to public health emergencies.

The Van Wert County Health Department works to promote and protect the health and well-being of the community. Learn more about the Van Wert County Health Department at https://vanwertcountyhealth.org. For more information, please contact Dr. Daryl Dowdy at ddowdy@vanwertcountyhealth.org or 419-238-0808 ext. 114.

Two Drug Arrests Made by Mercer County Sheriff’s Deputies
Celina, OH – Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports the arrest of two individuals last evening on drug related charges.  On Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at 8:45 PM, Mercer County Deputies stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation in the area of US 33 and Kuck Rd, in Center Township.  The vehicle was driven by Braden Etgen (20) of Rockford, who had Isaiah Garland (21) of Fort Recovery, as a passenger. 

A Mercer County Sheriff’s Office K9 unit was called to assist with the stop.  The K9 conducted a free air sniff around the vehicle and alerted to the presence of narcotics.  A search of the vehicle and its occupants, found suspected methamphetamines and fentanyl pills.  Both Etgen and Garland were booked in to the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility for Possession of Drugs, a Felony of the Fifth Degree and are being held without bond. 

The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by members of the Grand Lake Drug Task Force and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office.  The case will be turned over to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office for review of additional charges.

Rockford Village Council Meets on March 7, 2023
Click here for minutes by Fiscal Agent Lisa Kuhn

Rockford Community Announcements and events:

St. Teresa Family Fun Night / Talent Show -    March 11th – Rockford Community Building.  Talent acts may include instrumentals, singing, dancing or any other talent one would like to share with the community!

Please text 419-852-7954 or email stteresachurch@bright.net.

Shanes Crossing Historical Society Speaker Series  –“World War ll and the Rockford- Willshire Area” presentation by Harrison Frech –  March 20th –

7 pm – Village Office.

Village Office closed – March 28th and 29th -   Online Continue education.

Lions Club Quarter Auction – April 1st – Rockford Community Building

Rockford Fire Department – April 8th - Pancake & Sausage – 6 am – 1 pm

Shanes Park – Easter Egg Hunt – April 8th  -  1 pm

Rockford Chamber – April 15 - Spring Fling –– Main Street – 10 am – 3 pm

Accepting Groups / organizations to participate in 2023 Community Days –

June 16 & 17.   Contact Amy Joseph at 419-953-7874 or

Crystol Rasbach – 702-480-9146

**Proceeds to new shelter house at Shanes Park Pond.**

Stateline Writers Club to Meet
Stateline Writers Club is welcoming prospective members to the club's new year. The first meeting will be Saturday, March 18, 2023 at 10 a.m. at the Mercer County District Memorial Library in Celina.

The meeting room will be used.

Members will not be writing a story since this is a re-organizational meeting. New officers will be elected. 

Drug Arrest by Mercer County Deputy
Celina, OH - Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports the arrest of an individual on drug related charges.  Just after 3:30 PM, on Saturday, March 4,  Deputy Spencer Heinl of the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office was on patrol when he observed suspicious activity in a parking lot in the area of Logan St and Walnut St in Celina.  Shortly after, a traffic stop was conducted on Morton St with one of the involved vehicles for traffic violations.  Stopped was Aaron P. Chapman, age 35, Celina, who was operating a gray electric powered bicycle.    

Deputy Heinl’s K9 partner, Hex, then conducted a free air sniff around the vehicle and alerted to the presence of narcotics.  Prior to a search, Chapman took off running from the scene through residential yards and deputies were then in foot pursuit.  As he was fleeing, he was seen throwing a baggie that was later recovered.  Deputies Chase Kuhlman and Spencer Heinl caught up to him and took him in to custody in the area of Portland St, North of Logan St, in a parking lot.   A search of the bicycle, its contents, and the recovered baggie found suspected drugs that preliminarily test presumptive positive for methamphetamines. 

Chapman was transported to the Mercer County Adult Detention Center where he was booked in for Possession of Methamphetamines a Felony of the Fifth Degree and is being held without bond.  

The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Celina Police Department and the Mercer County Prosecutor Erin Minor.  The case will be forwarded to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office for review of any additional charges.

Jeff Grey

Sheriff

Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

March 1-8, 2023
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 18 years!
 

Keeping Care Local
Van Wert Health Joins OhioHealth as 14th Full Member Hospital

Above l to r: President and CEO of OhioHealth, Steve Markovich, MD, new interim president for OhioHealth Van Wert Health Joy Bischoff, and Jon Bagley, former Interim president of Van Wert Health.

VAN WERT, Ohio — OhioHealth and Van Wert Health announced on March 1, 2023, at a welcoming ceremony, that the board of directors of both organizations voted on December 14, 2022 to enter into a membership agreement that makes Van Wert Health a full member of the OhioHealth system. 

Van Wert Health became OhioHealth’s 14th full member hospital and places OhioHealth in 49 of the 88 counties in Ohio.

Above: Interim president for OhioHealth Van Wert Health Joy Bischoff - OhioHealth is committed to Keeping Care Local.

Jon Bagley, interim president and CEO of VWH opened the welcoming ceremony by explaining that Van Wert Health has been a local hospital since its inception in 1950. Working with the Van Wert Health Board of Trustees since June of 2022, he said they were looking together for a partner that would keep healthcare local but could also provide an investor who would assume the hospital’s assets; a partner that could provide advanced technologies like records online, robotics and tele-health; and a partner with exceptional leadership. Bagley was pleased to announce they had found this all in OhioHealth “At our core, we are here to care for the people in our communities,” said Bagley. “Healthcare is broader than just what happens within the walls of a single facility. This affiliation provides the organizational scale and leadership talent needed to deliver exceptional patient care and to strengthen local access to services.”

Above: Clap-in Ohio Health Van Wert Health

Tom Turnwald, chairman of the Van Wert Health Board of Trustees, stepped in and thanked his board for working tirelessly over these many years in building the North Branch Hospital, building the new Hospital on site, and managing all of it through the COVID epidemic. “OhioHealth is the best partner to deepen our commitment to patient safety, quality, and patient experience. We approached our discussions with them very purposefully, and we ultimately selected OhioHealth because they provide the greatest long-term financial stability along with their unwavering commitment to delivering healthcare locally,” said Turnwald. 

President and CEO of OhioHealth, Steve Markovich, MD, was introduced and said he was impressed with the culture and family atmosphere of Van Wert Health – how they embraced their mission and take care of people.”

Above: Welcoming ceremony guests.

All OhioHealth Van Wert Health photography courtesy of shelleefisher.com

LAAG MARCH ART CLASSES OFFERED

The Lake Area Arts Group will have its members meeting March 8th,
Wednesday, at 6 pm at the art gallery on South Main St., Celina.
Artist Molly Rose, guest speaker will give an overview of the March
classes she will be instructing on watercolor and colored pencil.
Information on times and costs as well as other classes in March is
available on LAAG ‘s FB page. ( lakeareaartsgroup)

March 12, 2023 - Daylight Saving Time Starts

When local standard time is about to reach:

Sunday, March 12, 2023, 2:00:00 am clocks are turned forward 1 hour to
Sunday, March 12, 2023, 3:00:00 am local daylight time instead.

Sunrise and sunset will be about 1 hour later on Mar 12, 2023 than the day before. There will be more light in the evening.

Also called Spring Forward, Summer Time, and Daylight Savings Time.

Some states are considering keeping this time permanent, however, Ohio, at this time, plans to Fall Back one hour on November 5, 2023 at 2AM

Join St. Paul’s Country Church and Chatt Methodist Church for their joint Lenten Wednesday Evening Service
Sunday Services at St. Paul’s

The memberships of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH and Chatt United Methodist Church invite you to join them for the Lenten Service at Chatt United Methodist in Chatt with Pastor Mike Husted providing the message at 7 PM on Wednesday, March 8, 2023. "Amazing Grace" is the series. Community is welcome.

Offering goes to C.A.L.L. Ministries.

 Sunday Worship

Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit on Sunday, March 12, 2023. Based on Exodus 17:1-7, the title is “Are We There Yet?”.

Sunday school is at 9:15 AM. Children’s Junior Church is every Sunday except the last Sunday of the month. We offer Bible based lessons and children’s activities. Snacks included.

Please call the church office for Pastor Mike at 419-942-1374 for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome.

21^st Century Club Meets In February

The Twenty First Century Club met on February 27, 2023 at the Rockford United Methodist Church Café for a regular meeting. President Janet Steffy called the meeting to order and welcomed everyone with a report on Laughing Until You Cry; the science of the laugh. Roll-Call by Secretary Kim Carr was completed with everyone naming one’s favorite comic strip. The treasurer’s report was given by Valerie Frizinger. The balance is $318.92.

Minutes from the January meeting were read and approved. Janet Steffy reported that a yellow fugi mum, our club flower, was presented to Honorary Member Barb Painter in memory of her husband, Chuck, who recently passed. A book, The Giving Tree by Shel Sliverstein, was also presented to the Rockford Library. Karla Butler thanked the members for soup donations to Helping Hands and requested small jars of peanut butter for the next club meeting.

“Funny Girl – Funny Guy” the theme for the year was continued as Rozann Maurer presented her program on comedien and actor Tim Conway who was a true Ohioan born & raised in Ohio on December 15, 1933 in Willoughby, OH. His father spoke Irish and mother spoke Rumanian. Tim was named Toma, but later changed his name to Thomas and then settled on the name Tim.  He was an only child in a quiet household where his parents did not learn the other’s language well. Tim taught his mother English. He wrote the tales of his life in later years called, What’s So Funny? which is a hilarious look at his childhood. He graduated from high school in Chagrin Falls, OH and later Bowling Green State University after serving in the U.S. Army. He got his start in radio in Cleveland, and it was there that Rose Marie from the Dick Van Dyke Show heard him and got him on the Steve Allen Variety Show. He was on television on McHale’s Navy, the Carol Burnett Show and had his own Tim Conway Show. He often portrayed inept characters or old men. He won 4 Emmy awards for work on The Carol Burnett Show. He was good with the ad lib and so was a fellow actor and good friend Harvey Korman.

Cindy Canary continued the evening program with her funny entertainer Phyllis Diller who hails from Lima Ohio. She never changed her name. Born in 1917 and living 95 years, she died in 2012. Cindy commented that Phyllis started her acting career later at age 37, wore outrageous outfits and wild wigs.  She did radio copyrighting in San Francisco when she decided to try stand-up comedy. Her humor was self-deprecating and she had a cackling laugh that she attributed to nerves. Bob Hope was her mentor in the early years and she traveled with his USO show in 1966 to Viet Nam. She was on Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-in and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She is known for bringing plastic surgery out of the closet. Proudest of all, she delighted in being a record holder in The Guinness Book of World Records for getting 12 laughs at jokes in one minute.

Delicious refreshments were served by Ann Gage and Kim Carr.

The next meeting will be on Tuesday, March 28, 2023. Program leaders are Susan Coburn and Twyla Hayes. Cindy Canary and Melanie Shindeldecker will be hostesses.

Above: Large Backhoe shown digging out hotspots in the debris at Wildfire Bar and Grill while a Rockford fireman in their ladder truck (from above) continues to douse water. Below: See picture looking south on Main St. and the Rockford ladder truck spraying water.

Click on smaller thumbnails below to enlarge the pictures.

Mercer County PERI Chapter #13 to Meet
Mercer County PERI Chapter #13 will have its next meeting on Tuesday, March 14th.  The chapter will meet at 10:00 AM at the Hopewell Grange Hall on the Mercer County Fairgrounds.  Coffee, juice, and doughnuts will be available beginning at 9:30 AM.

Guest speaker will be Jennifer Overholzer, Marketing Specialist from Everheart Hospice.  Ms. Overholzer will address how the Hospice team of skilled professionals work together to assist patients and families with end-of-life needs.  Also, Everheart Hospice nurse practitioner, Elaine Post, will offer information about completing various Advance Directive forms, such as the Living Will and the Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care and others.  Members are encouraged to bring guests that might benefit from this presentation.  

Annual dues paying members are encouraged to pay their 2023 dues of $10.00 at the meeting or send to Treasurer Mary Wright at 809 Ivy Lane Celina, Ohio 45822.

by Sharon Heitbrink, Secretary

FLOWER / VEGETABLE SALES FUNDRAISER

First United Methodist Church Youth Group, located at 113 W Central Avenue in Van Wert, are selling flowers and vegetables for their upcoming Mission Trip to the Dominican Republic later this year. Orders and money are due March 12. Pick up will be at the fairgrounds on May 2 which will also offer Cash & Carry items.  The exact location is to be determined.

These are the same great quality plants that have been sold by the Cougar Boosters in the past. Consider this an open invitation to support First United Methodist Youth Missions and pick up a beautiful plant or two! Order forms and descriptions can be found at https://www.vanwertfirst.net/ - scroll to the bottom of the Welcome / Landing page.  For more information, please phone 419-238-0631 ext 307.

MERCER COUNTY ENGINEER DITCH MAINTENANCE ACTIVITIES

Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart is announcing that over the upcoming construction season that engineer inspection and maintenance personnel will be on-site on many of the 111 miles of Mercer County maintained open drainage ditches and 76 miles of tile throughout Mercer County.

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

A set of buildings on the west side of Main Street in downtown Rockford remain on fire at 9:13 AM at the time of this story. The text to avoid the area came in from Mercer County Sheriff's Department at 5:41 AM. The alarm reportedly came in at 1:45 AM. Ten local fire departments are on the scene including: Rockford; Chatt; Chickasaw; St. Henry; Coldwater; Celina; Mendon; Willshire; Van Wert; and Ohio City. An eye witness reported that Frankie Joe's old restaurant building (now known as Wildfire Bar and Grill, but it was closed down) and DJ's car repair business (and car storage) were both engulfed in flames at this time, too. DJ's is formerly the Riley Chevrolet building. Both water towers have reportedly been drained, and the departments are pumping from the river and carting from area ponds to keep the flames from spreading further. Rob Belna is the Rockford Fire Chief.

Thank you to Todd Henkle of Henkle Insurance for photos and updates!

Parkway Schools are on a
2 hour delay
for Wednesday, March 1, 2023.
The school reports no water or electricity due to a fire in Rockford.

Buses will be running late, especially Bus 18,
due to closed roads.

Sheriff Jeff Grey reported at 5:41 AM that a structure fire was active
in the Rockford village area, and drivers are being asked to avoid
State Route 118 and U.S. Route 33 in and out of the village.

St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford
2023 Wednesday Evening Lenten Series “Amazing Grace”
Planned with Chatt United Methodist Church
All services start at 7 PM

The Chatt Valley Ministerium, including St. Paul’s Country Church on Oregon Road  west of Rockford and Chatt United Methodist in Chattanooga have released their joint Lenten Service Schedule with locations.

Amazing Grace

March 1st   -    at St. Paul's Country Church – Pastor Tom Brunstrup

March 8th -      at Chatt UMC – Pastor Mike Husted

March 15th -    at St. Paul's Country Church – Pastor Tom Brunstrup

March 22th -    at Chatt UMC – Pastor Mike Husted

March 29th -    at St. Paul's Country Church – Pastor Tom Brunstrup

The offering from the combined Lenten services above goes to C.A.L.L. Ministries.

Maundy Thursday, April 6^th at St. Paul’s Country Church, 7 PM – Communion served.

 

Good Friday is a Combined Service on April 7^th and will be held at St. Paul’s Country Church with Pastor Adam Poe from Zion Lutheran Chatt, Pastor Tom Brunstrup from Chatt United Methodist and Pastor Mike Husted from St. Paul’s Country Church leading the service.

Easter Sunrise Service (Children’s Program) is at 8 AM on Sunday, April 9, 2023 followed by breakfast at St. Paul’s Country Church followed by Sunday School at 9:15 AM

Easter Service on Sunday, April 9, 2023 at St. Paul’s Country Church begins at 10 AM. Communion served.

Parkway School Board Agenda for a Regular Meeting on Wednesday March 1, 2023 7:00 PM
in the Community Room - Note this is a changed date 
by Sally Cox

Join St. Paul’s Country Church and Chatt Methodist for their joint Lenten Wednesday Service
Women’s Week Sunday Services at St. Paul’s

The memberships of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH and Chatt United Methodist invite you to join them for the Lenten Service at St. Paul’s Church with Reverend Tom Brunstrup providing the message at 7 PM on Wednesday, March 1, 2023. Community is welcome.

Women’s Week is being celebrated this week, and Becky Jo Shope will present the morning message titled “Blessings, Always Blessings” based on Matthew 5:1-12 at St. Paul’s Country Church on Sunday, March 5, 2023.

Sunday school is at 9:15 AM. Children’s Junior Church is every Sunday except the last Sunday of the month. We offer Bible based lessons and children’s activities. Snacks included.

Please call the church office for Pastor Mike at 419-942-1374 for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome.

February 22-28, 2023
 

Parkway Schools are  CLOSED for Thursday, February 23, 2023
due to the continued dense fog in the area.
Please NOTE: This is Parkway's first E (Electronic) day
beginning at 10 AM.

Parkway Schools are on a
2 hour fog delay
for Thursday, February 23, 2023.

St. Paul’s Country Church for Ash Wednesday and Sunday

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to join them for an Ash Wednesday Reflection/Prayer, Ashes and Communion time with Pastor Mike Husted from 8-10  AM and 6-8 PM on Wednesday, February 22, 2023. Come at any of these times, hear the message, pray and have communion with him. Community is welcome.

Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit on Sunday, February 26, 2023. Based on Matthew 4:1-11, the title is “Confronting Temptation”.

Sunday school is at 9:15 AM. Children’s Junior Church is every Sunday except the last Sunday of the month. We offer Bible based lessons and children’s activities. Snacks included.

Please call the church office for Pastor Mike at 419-942-1374 for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome.

February 15-21, 2023
 

Lady Panthers Basketball Team Win MAC with Marion Local

CONGRATULATIONS to our Lady Panther Basketball team for winning their 1st MAC Championship in school history!!! They share the title with Marion Local who also finished with a 8-1 conference record. The Panthers wrapped up their regular season with a 20-2 overall record and begin tournament action on Wednesday, February 15 at Lincolnview taking on Wayne Trace in the second game of the night scheduled to start at 7:30.

Pictured kneeling with trophy are seniors Allison Hughes, Gabrielle Stober, Emiree Knittle.

Middle Row: Cali Bollenbacher, Emree Temple, Avery White, Audrey Nichols, Frankie Steinbrunner, Adria Miller, Bryn Schoenleben, Brittyn Bruns, Alexis Berry, Paige Williamson, Head Coach Dan Williamson, Statistician Brady McKee

Back Row: Assistant Coach Deb Kirby, JV Coach Gina Jacobs, Assistant Coach Tyler Deitsch

Coach Mark Esselstein Honored into the Parkway Athletic Hall of Fame

Coach Mark Esselstein was inducted into the Parkway Athletic Hall of Fame in a recent ceremony. Coach Esselstein was the first Head Softball coach in Parkway High School history. Over a 33-year span, he guided the Panthers to an overall record of 551-172. He is the winningest Softball coach in Parkway and Midwest Athletic Conference (MAC) history. During his tenure, the Panthers never had a losing season. Coach Esselstein guided

the Panthers to 13 MAC titles and had an overall MAC record of 128-27. For his career, Coach Esselstein led the Panthers to 13 District titles, 3 Regional titles and 3 appearances in the State Final Four. He was named the Northwest District Fastpitch Softball Coaches Association (NWDFSCA) coach of the year 3 separate times. He was also inducted into the Ohio High School Fastpitch Softball Coaches Association (OHSFSCA) in 2008.

Parkway Boys' Varsity Bowling Team Takes 7^th Place in the MAC Tournament

Parkway Boys' Varsity Bowling team finished in 7th place at Saturday's MAC Tournament. The team begins Sectional Tournament action on Friday, February 17 at 10:00 at Community Lanes in Minster.

Parkway Girls' Varsity Bowling Team Takes 3rd Place in the MAC Tournament and in the Regular Season

Congratulations to our Girls' Varsity Bowling team who finished in 3rd place at yesterday's MAC Tournament! The team also finished in 3rd place in the MAC regular season standings! The team begins Sectional Tournament action on Thursday, February 16 at 10:00 at Community Lanes in Minster.

Pastor Michael Husted at St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, February 19, 2023. Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit with a sermon straight from the Bible. Based on Exodus 24:12-18, the title is “An Appointment With God”.

Sunday school is now beginning at 9:15 AM. Children’s Junior Church is now every Sunday except the last Sunday of the month. Bible based lessons and children’s activities taught. Snacks.

Please call the church office for Pastor Mike at 419-942-1374 for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome.

February 8-14, 2023
The Parkway Independent is 18 years old!
 

Allison Hughes to Play Basketball at Edison State

Parkway senior Allison Hughes is shown signing her Letter of Intent to play basketball at Edison State Community College. Seated with Allison are her parents, Lynn and Doug Hughes. Standing are Edison State Girls' Basketball coaches Tim McMahon and Doug Martin. 

Eddie Nichols to Play Football at Walsh University

Parkway senior Eddie Nichols is shown signing his Letter of Intent to play football at Walsh University. Seated with Eddie are his parents, Cheryl and Les. In the back row are his sisters, Lindsey, Megan, Kelsey, and Audrey, and his high school football coach, Joel Henkle. 

FAMILY FUN NIGHT
Sponsored by St Teresa Parish, Rockford, Ohio
Saturday, March 11, 2023

Dinner / DJ beginning at 5:30pm at Rockford Community Building

Wedding Style Dinner– PRESALE TICKETS ONLY contact the church office at 419-363-2633 before March 11st

Many great prizes to win for adults and children
Games of chance throughout the evening
Open to the public

Pastor Michael Husted at St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, February 12, 2023. Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit with a sermon straight from the Bible. Based on Matthew 5:21-26, the title is “Anger”.

Sunday school is now beginning at 9:15 AM. Children’s Junior Church is now every Sunday except the last Sunday of the month. Bible based lessons and children’s activities taught. Snacks.

Please call the church office for Pastor Mike at 419-942-1374 for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome.

2023 Beginning Beekeeping Class

Are you interested in learning about honey bees and beekeeping? If so, then you are invited to attend Greater Grand Lake Beekeepers Association’s (GGLBA) 9th annual Beginning Beekeeping Class on March 11, 2023 at the Richardson-Bretz Building in Celina, Ohio. The class will begin at 8:00 AM and last until 5:00 PM. Participants will learn everything they need to know to begin keeping bees themselves. Topics will cover all aspects of beekeeping and is designed for the “new-bee” as well as those with some knowledge or experience with honey bees.. Classroom demonstrations will show attendees how to assemble hives and frames and install foundation. Cost of the class is $50 per person in advance and includes the book “Bee-Sentials: A Field Guide” (a $28 value). A child or spouse can also register in advance for $25 per person (no book). Walk-in registration will be $60 per person ($30 for a child or spouse). Each person registered will receive a one-year membership in Greater Grand Lake Beekeepers Association ($15 value), a one-year membership in the Ohio State Beekeepers Association ($20 value) and the chance to win one of several beekeeping-related door prizes. Beekeeping supply catalogs, literature, and other handouts will also be available. Attendees can order hives and locally produced honey bee nucleus hives (nucs) on the day of the class. A cash or check deposit of $100 per nuc and $75 per hive kit ordered is required on the day of the class. Instructors will include GGLBA members along with Dwight Wells, a recognized speaker and researcher in the field of honey bees. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis and class size is limited to 35 people. To enroll or for more information, go to gglba.ohiostatebeekeepers.org or contact Ty Shelby (419) 236-3734 or Scott Cohen (937) 470-2866. The Richardson-Bretz building is located at 119 W. Fulton Street in Celina (just behind the Mercer County Library). Coffee, doughnuts, and refreshments are included. Lunch will be on your own. Greater Grand Lake Beekeepers Association (GGLBA) meets monthly on the second Tuesday of the month at the St. Marys Community Public Library. Please consult our website or Facebook page for more information. Meetings run from 7:00 PM until 9:00 PM and are open to the public. January 17, 2023

2023 Mercer County Board of Health Meeting Dates

Meeting time: 8:00 a.m. Second Wednesday of each month unless noted

220 W. Livingston Street, Celina, OH 45822 – B195 Conference Room

January 11, 2023:  Adopt 2023 Appropriations

February 8, 2023: Regular BOH Session

March 8, 2023: Regular BOH Session

March 20, 2023: District Advisory Council (DAC) Annual Meeting @ 7:00pm.  The DAC will appoint a candidate / Incumbent to the Board of Health.

April 12, 2023: Board approves tentative General Fund Budget for 2024

 

May 10, 2023: Regular BOH Session

June 14, 2023: Approve County School Screening Contracts for Public Health Services

July 12, 2023: Regular BOH Session

August 16, 2023: Regular BOH Session

September 13, 2023: Regular BOH Session

October 11, 2023: Regular BOH Session

November 8, 2023: Regular BOH session

December 13, 2023: Regular BOH Session

January 10, 2024: Adopt 2024 Appropriations

Bridge Closing

The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Rauh Road between St. Anthony Road and Pine Road in Washington Township for a bridge replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on February 13, 2023 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 4-5 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

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

Mercer Health Medical Group at Mendon Now Scheduling Patients

Mercer Health is excited to announce the opening of Mercer Health Medical Group at Mendon, 128 Drake Street. Patients of all ages can schedule appointments now with Lindsey Lamm, CNP. Services provided include: wellness visits, acute illness treatment, routine screenings, orders for lab & imaging tests, management of chronic conditions and more.  To schedule an appointment, call: 419-795-2050.

Western Ohio Civil War Round Table to Meet
A good friend of the Roundtable and fellow member John Hyter will be the speaker for the February meeting. He will discuss the Joint Congressional Committee on the Conduct of the War. Just what President Lincoln needed, a bunch of snoopy Radicals to try to second guess him as he carried out his Constitutional responsibilities as commander in chief. 

John has an interesting story to tell, and he's certain to do a good job presenting it. The date is Thursday, February 23  (2/23/23). Meeting comes to order at 7:15 PM. Our meetings are open to the public at the Richardson-Bretz Memorial. Feel free to bring a friend!

by Tom Thompson

Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

Honor Flight Confirms Purple Heart Flight Date

Honor Flight Northeast Indiana (HFNEI) is proud to announce the date for a special Purple Heart Flight slated for 2023. The Flight will fall on National Purple Heart Day, which is celebrated on August 7, 2023.  This previously announced flight will be a 5th flight for the HFNEI 2023 flying season and marks the largest Honor Flight nationwide flight dedicated to Purple Heart recipients.  

Northeast Indiana Honor Flight Staff are excited to be able to take approximately 85 Veterans who have been awarded a Purple Heart in service to our country to see the memorials built in their honor in Washington DC.

Honor Flight Northeast Indiana was the recipient of the annual 2022 Penny Pitch Fundraiser by Fort Wayne radio station WOWO.  Each year, a charitable organization is chosen to receive the funds raised by the WOWO staff with the support of area residents and volunteers from the organization. Honor Flight Northeast Indiana determined that all funds accumulated from the Penny Pitch efforts would go toward paying for this special flight to honor those wounded in military service.  

Planning for the special Purple Heart Flight is on-going and will require many hours of preparation to accommodate the extra activities that will take place to give special honor to those who have sacrificed so much. Veterans who have not yet been on an Honor Flight and who have been awarded a purple heart are invited to apply through the website for Honor Flight Northeast Indiana www.hfnei.org.

February 1 - 7, 2023
 

Coach Donnie Miller Honored for 50 years
Coach Donnie Miller was honored for his 50 years of coaching at Parkway Schools between games at a recent Boys' JV / Varsity Basketball game. Also honored was his wife, Susie, who has been his main support throughout the years. Coach Miller is currently coaching junior high boys' basketball and baseball. Thank you, Coach Miller and Susie, for your dedication to Parkway Athletics!

Parkway Winter Homecoming 2023 Queen Emree and Court
Miss Emree Sinning was recently crowned the 2023 Winter Homecoming Queen. Pictured below are Emree and her court (L to R): Sophomore Emerson Esselstein, Senior Abby Baltzell, Queen Emree Sinning, Senior Aaliyah Baxter, Junior Frankie Steinbrunner, Freshman Jordyn Schaefer. 

Second Fatal Crash of 2023
Celina, OH-Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports that his office is investigating the second fatal traffic crash in Mercer County this year. Mercer County Central Dispatch received a call 9-1-1 call at 6:14 AM on February 1, 2023 of a traffic crash on US Rte 127, south of Fort Recovery Minster Rd in Granville Township.

The investigation revealed that Kevin Brunswick (61) of Piqua, was driving a 2020 white Chevy sedan, traveling north on US Rte 127.  Todd Penhorwood (54) of Mt Victory, was traveling southbound in a 2020 white International semi-tractor and trailer.  For an unknown reason, Brunswick traveled left of center, striking Penhorwood.  Mr. Brunswick was pronounced dead at the scene. 

Assisting at the scene were members of the St. Henry Fire Department, Burkettsville Fire Department, Southern Mercer County Joint Ambulance District, MCERV, Ohio Motor Carrier Enforcement and Mercer County Prosecutor Erin Minor.    

The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Team was called to the scene.  This crash remains under investigation at this time and will be forwarded to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office for review once it is completed. 

Parkway School Board Agenda for a Regular Meeting on Wednesday February 8, 2023 6:30 PM
in the High School Library 
by Sally Cox

Update from Secretary Sally Cox

Parkway Local School District
 PARKWAY BOARD OF EDUCATION Meetings
The board meetings are now scheduled for the 2^nd Wednesday of the month, 6:30 p.m. in the community room.

Parkway February 2023 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Valentine theme classes at Celina LAAG art gallery

The Lake Area Arts Group will feature February beginner classes in
jewelry making, 3D painting, cookie decorating, and miniature tree
wire sculptures. All these projects are perfect for Valentine gifting.
Classes are $25 or $20 for LAAG members.
On Tues, February 7th from 11-1 pm. A polished stone macrame pendant
class will be led by author and Celestial Crystal Creations owner Lori
Yaney. Class includes all supplies and choice of stone.
On Thursday, February 9th , 6-8pm, LAAG will sponsor a Valentines sip
and paint class led by Billy Kay Marsee. Participants will paint a 4x6
3D canvas with a Valentine theme to take home. All supplies included
plus an easel for displaying painting. Snacks provided with cash bar
available.
On Saturday, February 11, 10-11AM. A valentine cookie decorating class
will be offered by Sharon Green. Participants will decorate two
valentine theme cookies for taking home. Class is limited to 8 (ages
14 and older )with cost for the one hour class $15 ($10 for members,
coffee and donuts provided.
The following Saturday, February 18, 10-12am. Sherry Chandler will
lead participants in making a miniature wire/bead tree sculpture.
Chandlers tree sculptures can be seen at Brew Nation in LAAG’S glass
consignment cabinet. Class limited to 8 ( ages 14 and older).
All the classes are at the LAAG gallery in Brew Nation. 108 S. Main
St.,Celina. Sign up soon for classes at lakeareaartsgroup @gmail.com.
submitting name, email and phone number. Also sign up at the First
Friday Chocolate Walk on Friday, February 3rd. at the gallery at Brew
>  Nation, Celina. Pick up a hand made chocolate and see the art.

Pastor Michael Husted at St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, February 5, 2023. Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit with a sermon straight from the Bible. Continuing in 1 Corinthians 2:11-16, the title is “The Modus Operandi of Evangelism”.

Sunday school is now beginning at 9:15 AM. Children’s Junior Church is now every Sunday except the last Sunday of the month. Bible based lessons and children’s activities taught. Snacks.

Please call the church office for Pastor Mike at 419-942-1374 for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome.

VWHS THEATRE ANNOUNCES 2023 SPRING MUSICAL

Van Wert High School Theatre Department is excited to announce our 2023 spring musical production. On April 13, 14, and 15, join Van Wert High School Theatre as we present The Wizard of Oz at 7pm at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center. The Wizard of Oz is by L. Frank Baum with Music and Lyrics by Harold Arlen and E. Y. Harburg, Background Music by Herbert Stothart, Dance and Vocal Arrangements by Peter Howard, and Orchestration by Larry Wilcox. Adapted by John Kane for the Royal Shakespeare Company, The Wizard of Oz is based upon the Classic Motion Picture owned by Turner Entertainment Co. and distributed in all media by Warner Bros. Join us as we travel down the yellow brick road with Dorothy and her friends, Scarecrow, Lion, and Tin Man. Our talented high school and middle school cast and crew will bring Oz to life! Ticket purchasing information can be found at our website, VWHSTheatre.weebly.com. Tickets go on sale through our website to the general public starting March 6th. THE WIZARD OF OZ is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Tams-Witmark LLC. www.concordtheatricals.com. VWHS Theatre continues to create, perform, and inspire the Van Wert community through the theatrical arts.

January 24-31, 2023
 

Parkway March 2023 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Overactive Bladder Webinar with Dr. Scott Shie

Van Wert, OH – On Tuesday, February 7, 2023 the Van Wert Health Center for Urology, in partnership with Medtronic, will host a free educational webinar on overactive bladder symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. The webinar will be presented by Scott Shie, MD, Board Certified Urologist.

When a person experiences sudden and involuntary contractions of their bladder muscles and continually feels the need to urinate, this is a condition known as overactive bladder. Symptoms of overactive bladder include uncontrollable urges to go to the bathroom, frequent accidents, and getting up multiple times at night. Overactive bladder condition affects millions of men and women daily.

“Issues related to the bladder can be a sensitive subject. Many who suffer from overactive bladders opt to avoid the issue, negatively impacting their overall quality of life,” shared Dr. Shie. “What we are doing with this sort of event is normalizing the discussion, offering a space free of judgment for people to learn and ask questions.”

The free event begins at 6:30 PM, will last for one hour, including time for questions. Register online: www.vanwerthealth.org/bladder-info

About Dr. Shie:

Scott Shie, MD, earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine in Cincinnati, Ohio. He has 17 years of surgical and urological experience and has practiced in Ohio and Indiana. Dr. Shie is a member of the American Urological Association, Ohio Urological Society and American Association of Clinical Urologists. Dr. Shie has been published in the Journal of Endourology and given presentations for the American Urological Association.

Parkway Schools are  CLOSED for Friday, January 27, 2023

Mercer County Sheriff's Department

Alert: At 8:23 am Friday, January 27, 2023, Sheriff Jeff Grey canceled the Level One snow emergency for Mercer County. Continue to use caution while driving.

Parkway Schools are on a
2 hour delay
for Friday, January 27, 2023.
 

Mercer County Sheriff's Department

Alert: At 8:01 pm Thursday, January 26, 2023, Sheriff Jeff Grey issued a Level One snow emergency for Mercer County. Roadways are slick and there is blowing and drifting snow.

Instructions:

Use extreme caution while traveling due to icy road conditions.

21^st Century Club Meets In January

The Twenty First Century Club met on January 24, 2023 at the Rockford United Methodist Church Café for a regular meeting. President Janet Steffy called the meeting to order and welcomed everyone with a report on Laffy Taffy, candy with a joke in every wrapper. Roll-Call by Secretary Kim Carr was completed with everyone naming one’s favorite movie that makes them laugh. The treasurer’s report was given by Valerie Frizinger. The balance is $335.09.

Minutes were read and approved. The outing to Van Wert in November 2022 for the comedy play, Exit Laughing, at the Van Wert Civic Theater was enjoyed by members.

“Funny Girl – Funny Guy” the theme for the year was continued as Julia Henkle presented her program on comedienne and actress Rachel Harris who was born in 1968 in Worthington, OH. She received a Fine Arts in Theater from Otterbein College. Rachel moved to NYC with her new husband where she made her debut on the show Seaquest. Later she acted in the Star Trek Voyager series. She starred as the mom in the popular Winpy Kids series of movies, acted on West Wing and Desparate Housewives. She is now divorced and has two children. She continues to act and is often seen in commercials.

Ann Gage continued the evening program with her funny entertainer Steve Harvey. His full name is Broderick Stephen Harvey, Sr., and he was born in Welch West Virginia in 1957. His claim to Ohio comes from his college years at Kent State in Ohio. Steve is 6 ft. 1 in tall and is most noted for his success with the game show Family Feud. He has won 7 daytime Emmy awards. Steve is a clothes horse, wears a different suit on each show, and owns his own line of suits and owns a clothes warehouse. He is not only a comedian, but is also an actor, producer and owns several of his own shows including a popular morning talk show. He’s a motivational speaker, was once homeless, loved producing Kids Say the Funniest Things, and is a Christian, faith-driven man, who goes out of his way to help people and especially entrepreneurs. He is a published author and has recovered from cancer.  At 66, he is busy with his 7 children from three marriages and continues in the entertainment field.

The next meeting will be on Tuesday, February 28, 2020. Program leaders are Rozann Maurer and Cindy Canary. Kim Carr and Ann Gage will be hostesses.

Parkway Schools are  CLOSED for Wednesday, January 25, 2023.
Winter Storm Kassandra causing Wintry Conditions.

3-5 inches of snow expected today in this part of Ohio.

Thank you to Todd Henkle of Henkle Insurance for this early morning look
at the start of the snowstorm!

Timmerman Announces Run for Mercer County Sheriff
Mercer County Chief Deputy, Doug Timmerman, today formally announces his intention to seek the Republican nomination for Sheriff and is proud to have the endorsement of retiring Sheriff Jeff Grey.

Timmerman is a 29-year veteran of the office and has served in every division. His qualifications include being a 911 Dispatcher, Road Patrol Deputy, Detective, Detective Sergeant, Enforcement Captain, Corrections Captain, and he now serves as Chief Deputy.

Professionally, Timmerman is a member of the Buckeye State Sheriff’s Association (BSSA), where he currently serves on the Legislative and Awards Committees.  He is also a member of the National Sheriff’s Association (NSA), and has graduated from FBI LEEDA (Law Enforcement Executive Development Association). 

Timmerman is a lifelong resident of Mercer County, and lives in Coldwater with his lovely wife of 25 years, Jill (Bruns), and their two daughters, Sammi and Siera.

Timmerman’s motto is “To Serve and Protect with Respect” and he looks forward to serving as your next Mercer County Sheriff.  

Due to the predicted winter storm, the Van Wert County Health Department will be closed on Wednesday, January 25, 2023. In case of an emergency involving the health department, please contact the Van Wert County Sheriff’s Department at 419-238-3866 and they will contact health department staff.

Win on the Wabash Super Raffle Senior Scholarships

The Win on the Wabash Super Raffle, sponsored by the Fort Recovery Athletic Boosters, will be awarding 22 Seniors this year from the local area with $500 scholarships. The success of our event over the past four years wouldn’t be possible without the support of our local and surrounding communities, as well as without the help of countless volunteers. These scholarships are just one way of saying THANK YOU to those communities and are also a way of rewarding those Seniors who are active in their community.

Two Seniors from each of these schools: Fort Recovery; Coldwater; St. Henry; Marion Local; Versailles; Fort Loramie; Parkway; New Bremen; Minster; New Knoxville; and Jay County (IN) will each be awarded with a $500 scholarship. Applications can be submitted online by filling out this Google Form. The application link can also be found pinned on the top of the ‘WoW Super Raffle’ Facebook page and online at www.wowraffle.com/scholarships/. Any questions regarding the application process can be sent to scholarships@wowraffle.com.

The application deadline is March 31st, 2023. Students awarded with a scholarship will be notified by April 30th, 2023.

The requirements for eligibility are as follows:

Must be a U.S. Citizen

Must be enrolled in school at Ft. Recovery, Coldwater, St. Henry, Marion Local, Minster, Versailles, Fort Loramie, Parkway, New Bremen, New Knoxville, or Jay County (IN)

Must currently be in your Senior year of high school

Must be supportive of, volunteering, or active within your community

Must fully complete the application through Google Forms

Application must include a typed, in 12 pt. font, 300-word maximum essay. Please include your name on the essay. The subject of the essay is: As you complete your high school years, how have you supported, volunteered, or been active in your community?

Application must also include a letter of recommendation from a non-related community member or school employee detailing community service you have performed.

Van Wert County Agricultural Society Announces Reverse Raffle Fundraiser

Van Wert, OH | The Van Wert County Agricultural Society will be hosting the 7th Annual Reverse Raffle on March 25, 2023 at the Junior Fair Building on The Van Wert County Fairgrounds. Doors open at 5:00 pm with dinner served at 6:00 pm. This annual fundraiser event includes multiple opportunities to win prizes, a 50/50 drawing, silent and live auction items and more. The last ticket drawn will receive $7,000, with the 2nd to last ticket receiving $3,500, the 3rd to last ticket receiving $1,500 and the 4th to last ticket receiving $750. The event will be catered by Gibson’s Barnyard BBQ. Raffle tickets are $100 each and dinner tickets are $25 each.Only 300 raffle tickets will be sold. Both tickets include a catered meal, complimentary drinks and the ability to participate in the various activities held during the event. Tickets for the event are available through the Van Wert County Fair office located at 1055 S. Washington St. in Van Wert, OH or by contacting any Fair Board Director.

Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

Rockford Village Council Meets on January 17, 2023
Click here for minutes by Fiscal Agent Lisa Kuhn
and Community Announcements and events:

More discussion on rates at Shanes Park Community Building; discussion on a Tree Commission; lots are all sold in Phase one of the new subdivision - Phase 2 will begin.

Events:

Dog Tags available at the Village office until January 31st – 4 pm.

St. Teresa Family Fun Night / Talent Show -    March 11th – Rockford Community Building.  Talent acts may include instrumentals, singing, dancing or any other talent one would like to share with the community!

Lions Club Quarter Auction – April 1st – Rockford Community Building

Rockford Chamber -  Spring Fling –– Main Street

Rules Committee:    Marcas Heitkamp reported:

•           Community Building Research – given out earlier for council review.

•           Proposed Employee Handbook updates 01/2023 – please review for approval at the next meeting. Many changes - click link above to read them.

BICENTENNIAL ARTICLES - CLICK HERE

Pastor Michael Husted at St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, January 29, 2023. Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit with a sermon straight from the Bible. Based on 1 Corinthians 1:26-31, the title is “Send in the Clowns”.

Sunday school is now beginning at 9:15 AM. Children’s Junior Church is now every Sunday except the last Sunday of the month. Bible based lessons and children’s activities taught. Snacks.

Please call the church office for Pastor Mike at 419-942-1374 for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome.

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

 

Donation to Kingdom Harvest Ministries

St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH recently made a generous donation to Kingdom Harvest Ministries. Tom Sanford (right), director of the program and lead Pastor Ken Myer (left) of New Horizon Church accepted the check from member Sheila Baltzell-Linn.

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

Shown below are two photos of the inside of the new addition to New Horizon Church, where students attend pull-out classes during their regular school day at Parkway. At left is a lounge with the hand-carved cross made by member Tom Pryer many years ago. At the right is the new coffee gathering station. The expansion at New Horizon Community Church has enabled Kingdom Harvest Ministries to expand their classroom sizes.

Donation to Local Couple to Help with Medical Costs from Accident
The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH recently made a generous donation to Thomas and Jenna Snell at a Benefit held in their honor on January 8, 2023 at the Shanes Park Community Building in Rockford.  Thomas was driving a semi-tractor which was involved in a two vehicle accident in Paulding County in November 2022. The truck he was driving flipped over and caught fire. Thomas Snell suffered serious burns as a result of the fire and was flown by Mercy Life Flight to St. Vincent Medical Center in Toledo, Ohio. Today he is home and healing well. Thomas and wife Jenna are shown above after accepting the check from Barb Baker, member of St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford.

Parkway High School 2nd Quarter Honor Roll 

By Lisa Miller, HS Secretary

SENIORS

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Colby Bentz, Aaron Cron, Trenton Garwood, Madison Gile, Carter Hellwarth, Allison Hughes, Emiree Knittle, Jackson Kraner, Edin Nichols, Corban Rich, Hutch Ridenour, Emily Schaefer, Nevaeh Seals, Derek Smith, Brooke Stephenson, Gabrielle Stober

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Aaliyah Baxter, Gavin Dicke, Desiree Hague, Caden Heindel, Allison Heitkamp, Madison Jacobs, Adrienne Joseph, Roman Leszinske, Alivia Osborne, Deegan Rager, Alison Rowen, Emree Sinning, Andrew Wagner, Robert (Jack) Wagner, Jocie Waters, Alyxandra Yoder

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Macy Johnson

JUNIORS

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Alexis Berry, Breanna Berry, Meg Henkle, Ashley Jackson, Addysin Leighner, Madison Louth, Audrey Nichols, Tyler Rowen, Francesca Steinbrunner, Paige Stephenson, Woodrow Tinkham, Paige Williamson, Jacob Winget 

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Ben Bates, Ruby Bennett, Logan Green, Harli Grunden, Trent Rollins, Abigail Sheets, Julia Sheets, Sarah Sheppard, Fletcher Smith, Apollo Thomas, Avery White

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Morgan Bollenbacher, Caleb Nusbaum, Justin Parsons, Nathan Perry, Ellie Prichard, Emma Prichard, Kathryn Trisel

SOPHOMORES

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Amanda Barrett, Cali Bollenbacher, Shay Boroff, Brayden Bruns, Zoey Henning, Evan Kimmel, Adria Miller, Ashton Minnich, Alexavier Samples, Cora Schumm

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Riley Bolton, Noah Connolly, Gabriel Cross, Emerson Esselstein, Gaven Garwood, Creeden Knittle, Scarlett Laux, Grace Pontsler, Kailyn Regedanz, Helana Sinning, Elizabeth Winget

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Matthias Byer, Braedn Conn, Jersie Evans, Ethan Fireoved, Zachery Glosser, Abby Hague, Lucas Hileman, Douglas Hughes, Mackenzie Kellermeyer, McKenzie Mathewson, Elias Poe, Kaitlyn Rager, Matthew Roberts, Wyatt Seals, Melanie Severt, Trevor Stearns, Meah Suzuki, Andrew Taylor, Isabella Thornsberry, Ethan Tuttle, Derik Vann

FRESHMEN

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Carlee Barna, Meagan Boroff, Brittyn Bruns, Olivia Clifford, Lola Dailey, Taylor Minnich, Natalie Moeller, Madison Mosier, Ella Putman, Nathaniel Stolly, Emmery Temple, Christina Tong

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Payton Frese, Trevor Heitkamp, Carson Kirby, Rylan Lyons, Taylor Muhlenkamp, Megan Nichols, Milee Peel, Haley Perry, Ava Pond, Ethan Pond, Gabryelle Sill, Kyndra Thornsberry, Lucian Winters, John Yoder

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Lennox Boroff, Hayden Castleman, Miley Crouch, Addison Fisher, Kaleb Gilliland, Parker Lyons, Addison Reigle, Eli Schumm, Alexander Strickland, Gabriel Welling

Our Old Bookcase, sent Nov. 3, 2022, Oldest Post Office, for Nov. 10, 2022

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

Photo Caption:  Shanes Crossing U.S. Post Office was the oldest U.S. Post Office in Mercer County, as of Oct. 4, 1823. 

A copy of this Post Card will be displayed at the 22nd Annual Exhibit of Post Cards, Post Marks, and Post Offices held November 13, 2022, Sunday afternoon, 1:00 – 4:00 at the Mercer County  Historical Museum, the Riley Home, 130 East Market, Celina, Ohio.  A copy of this Post Card is found in the book, “Our Post Card Past, Rockford, Ohio,” published the Shanes Crossing Historical Society and the Mercer County Historical Society in 2001.

Anthony Shane was the Founder of Shanesville, in 1820, on the St. Marys River, known as “Halfway Cross,” on John Mitchell’s 1755 Map of America.  This river crossing was about half way between the Indian village (at the site of Fort Wayne today) and the village of Pickawillany (near present day Piqua, Ohio).  For more information, see the book, “Mercer County, Ohio; History of the land between the Saint Marys & Wabash River Valleys, 1755-2000.”  In 1823, the United States Post Office was established in Anthony Shane’s Log House which was moved to Shanes park and dedicated in July 2001.

This 1823 Post Office was continued under this name Shanes Crossing U.S. Post Office until July 8, 1890, when the name of the Post office was changed to Rockford Post Office by the U.S. Post Office. 

This exhibit of Post Cards, Post Marks, and Post Offices in Mercer County, will be the most detailed exhibit ever held, not only in Mercer County, but also in Ohio.  Nearly forty Post Offices existed in Mercer County, between 1823 and 1900.  As of 1900, Rural Free Delivery was planned and implemented in Mercer County, and mail boxes were placed at the rural homes.  The Rural Delivery Mailmen delivered the mail to the rural homes of Mercer County.  The small Post Offices in the rural villages were closed.

And now, for the first time, the Mercer County Historical Society is hosting a display of Fourteen Notebooks of the Fourteen Townships, containing copies of the Federal Government’s U.S. Post Office establishing the official U.S. Post Offices in the rural villages.  This display includes copies of Government documents, Newspaper confirmations, photographs, post marks, post cards, and envelopes. 

Dale Poeppelman will have his extensive collection of Post Cards on exhibit, Sunday afternoon, November 13. 2022.  Dale’s Collection of postcards consist of examples from Mercer, Darke, Shelby, and Auglaize Counties.  Dale is interested in a radius around Maria Stein.  His cards are all separated by county in binders.

This Post Card Exhibit will be the last exhibit at the Mercer County Historical Museum for the year 2022.    Stop in and say hello if you have not visited lately.

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

Free Movie For Senior Citizens

Senior Citizens ages 55+ are invited to spend an afternoon at the Movies on Friday, February 10, 2023 at Celina Cinema 5 for a showing of “The Notebook” at 1:00 pm. The first 100 guests will receive free admission. After that, the price per ticket is $5.00 each.

“The Notebook” is a 2004 film about true love that is sure to bring a smile- and certainly a few tears. It’s the perfect film to watch with Valentine’s Day right around the corner.

Celina Cinema 5 is located at 116 N Main St. Celina, OH. Doors for this event will open at 12:30 pm and the movie will start at 1:00 pm. Be sure to arrive early- only the first 100 seniors will receive free admission!

All attendees will be entered for a chance to win free door prizes. Snacks will be available for purchase at the theater.

This event is made possible thanks to Celina Manor, EverHeart Hospice, Heritage Home Health, and Miller Place Assisted Living.

Van Wert Civic Theater Upcoming Show
Van Wert Civic Theatre is set to present the delightfully witty drama The Lion in Winter by James Goldman. Under the direction of Sarah Glover, the cast consists of Doug Norton in the title role as King Henry II of England. Making her long awaited return to the stage is Sheila Chilcote-Collins as his Queen, Eleanor of Aquitaine. Henry and Eleanor’s sons are played by Alexander Blubaugh as Richard (of Lionheart fame), Josey Darrow as brilliant but scheming Geoffrey, and Nick Patton as adorable yet foolish John. Abby Delong will be playing Princess Alias of France, while VWCT returner Evan Joseph plays King Philip of France with startling charisma. The Lion in Winter, a bold tale set in Castle Chinon, Christmas 1183. King Henry plans to announce his successor to the throne from among his three sons. First however he must outwit his brilliant but rebellious wife Queen Eleanor, whom he has just let out of jail, “only for the holidays.” Henry wants John. Eleanor wants Richard. But what about Geoffrey? And now the King of France has arrived demanding his sister’s wedding to the heir, or war. His sister-who is also Henry’s mistress. Well. What family doesn’t have its ups and downs? This show offers humor with gripping drama, à la Game of Thrones. The Lion In Winter runs 2023 February 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18 at 8:00 PM, and Sundays February 12 and 19 at 2:00 PM. Tickets are $16. A senior discount ticket at $14 is available for advanced reservations only. Call 419-238-9689 to leave a voicemail or visit: vwct.org to buy.

Three Arrested by HIT Team
Celina, OH - Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports the arrest of 3 individuals on drug related charges during a HIT Operation (Heroin Interdiction Team), on Thursday, January 12th.  The HIT Team is made up of members of the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office and the Celina Police Department.  St. Henry Police Department also assisted.

The HIT Team made 6 traffic stops, issued 5 written warnings, and 2 traffic citations. 

The following people were also taken into custody on drug related charges:

Katie N Schlarman, 31, 1517 Mary Lane Celina.  Schlarman was arrested for Possession of a Drug Abuse Instrument a Misdemeanor of the First Degree.

Darryl H Mann, 62,  537 Touvelle Street Lot 62 Celina.  Mann was arrested for Possession of Drugs and Felony of the Fifth Degree. 

Tyler M Franklin,  22, 310 W Wayne Street Celina.  Franklin was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine a Felony of the Fifth Degree. 

All were incarcerated at the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility.  The cases have been forwarded to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office for review and filing of formal charges.

LeAnn Rimes: the story… so far tour comes to Van Wert

(Van Wert, OH) - Van Wert Live and Presenting Sponsor, Mercy Health, along with Supporting Sponsor, Gary Taylor, is pleased to announce  LeAnn Rimes the story… so far tour is coming to The Niswonger in Van Wert on Sunday, May 7 at 7:00 PM. The concert tour is a celebration of the past 25 years of LeAnn Rimes career hits, from her first release, "Blue", to her brand new album, "god's work". 

LeAnn Rimes is an international multi-platinum-selling acclaimed singer and ASCAP award-winning songwriter. She has sold more than 48 million units globally, and won 2 Grammy® Awards; 12 Billboard Music Awards; 2 World Music Awards; 3 Academy of Country Music Awards; 2 Country Music Association Awards, and one Dove Award. At 14, Rimes won "Best New Artist” making her the youngest solo artist to take home a Grammy® Award, and at 15, she became the first country artist to win “Artist of the Year” at the Billboard Music Awards.

Tickets from $49 - 119 are available now to Van Wert Live Members and release to the public on Tuesday, January 24. VWLive Memberships begin as low as $100 and provide 365 days of early buying opportunities and a 10% discount for Van Wert Live events. Memberships and tickets can be purchased at vanwertlive.com or through the Box Office Mon-Fri from 10A to 3P / 419-238-6722.

January 16-23, 2023
 

Parkway Schools are on a
3 hour delay
for Monday, January 23, 2023

Parkway Schools are on a
2 hour delay
for Monday, January 23, 2023

Snow overnight; slick roads. 

Alumni Music Night Slated

This Saturday, January 21st will be Alumni Music Night at Parkway. The alumni pep band will rehearse from 4-5:15, followed by a carry-in for all participating alumni. After the carry-in, the alumni choir (who will be singing the Star Spangled Banner and the Alma Mater) will rehearse.

All former Rockford, Willshire, Mendon and Parkway band and choir members are invited to participate. Also invited are those who live in the Parkway district and participated in another school’s band or choir. All instruments and voices are needed to help make this evening a success.

You may contact Shannon Wagner (wagners@parkwayschools.org) or Kim Trisel (419-302-7030) if you have any questions about Alumni Music Night or would like to participate.

Please plan to join us for this fun evening!!

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Monday, January 16, 2023

OFFICER’S “HEROIC” ACTIONS SAVE WOMAN’S LIFE

The Warwick, Rhode Island Police Department bestowed its prestigious “Life Saving Award” upon Patrol Officer Stephanie Pabis at a city hall ceremony on Monday, January 9, 2023 for providing emergency medical care to a young woman who had been ejected from a vehicle during a violent crash.

Officer Pabis was the first officer to respond to the serious accident on September 10, 2022 on Warwick Avenue in Warwick.  Upon arrival, she faced a chaotic scene and ran toward a crowd which had gathered around a victim, ejected from an SUV, lying on the sidewalk with a severe laceration to the leg, bleeding profusely.

Without hesitation, as the woman began drifting into unconsciousness, Officer Pabis precisely applied a tourniquet to the leg and stopped the bleeding until EMT’s arrived and transported the young mother of two to Rhode Island Hospital where she survived after multiple operations.

“The heroic actions Officer Pabis took on this day undoubtedly saved the life of this citizen,” said Lieutenant Matthew Higgins as the award was presented.

Hundreds of people in the packed auditorium gave the young policewoman a standing ovation.

“It was a team effort and any of my fellow officers would have taken the same action,” said Officer Pabis, giving credit to EMT’s, surgeons and an unidentified passer-by who assisted her at the scene.  “I’m just glad my training at the Rhode Island Municipal Police Training Academy kicked in and we were able to send this woman back home to her family.”

“All of our officers do an excellent job and when we have heroic acts like that, it’s important to bring them in front of the public to show what quality work our men and women do,” said Colonel Bradford Connor, Warwick Chief of Police.

Officer Pabis was one of two officers receiving the Warwick Police Life Saving Award. The other was Officer Thomas Greene who administered Narcan to a person overdosing in a vehicle on busy Interstate 95.

Officer Pabis now serves in the Dover, New Hampshire Police Department.

She is the daughter of Paul Pabis and Holly Patrice Wood (formerly of Rockford, Ohio) and niece of Sheila Baltzell-Linn and Mark Linn of Celina, Ohio and Colleen and Wally O’Steen of Huntsville, Alabama.

Above picture: Officer Pabis with Colonel Bradford Connor, Warwick, RI Police Chief, photo courtesy of the Warwick PD.

Below picture: Officer Stephanie Pabis with Warwick, RI Mayor Frank Picozzi

2022 Drug Stats in Mercer County

CELINA, OH - Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey today released Mercer County drug arrest statistics for 2022.  “We feel like we are making progress in the drug problems throughout the county, but there is still a lot of work to be done to stay on top of it,” stated Grey.

In 2022 the Sheriff’s Office served drug related indictments on 74 different people.  These 74 people were charged with a total of 210 felony drug violations.  The majority of the drugs involved were methamphetamines, with fentanyl and heroin also found frequently.

Of the 74 people arrested throughout Mercer County, 11 were female and 30 were male between the ages of 18-35, 9 were female and 19 were male between the ages of 36-55, and 5 were males over the age of 55.

Investigations by the Sheriff’s Office accounted for 39 of the 74 people on 111 charges. Investigations by police departments throughout the county accounted for 35 of the 74 people and 99 charges.  The Grand Lake Drug Task Force and the Heroin Interdiction Team assisted with 36 people and 123 of the charges.

The Grand Lake Drug Task Force is made up of officers and deputies from Mercer and Auglaize Counties.  Officers are sworn in by both County Sheriffs to have countywide jurisdiction in each county when working a task force detail.  The Heroin Interdiction Team is made up of Mercer County Sheriff’s Deputies, Celina Police Officers, and Coldwater Police Officers.  All are sworn in by the Mercer County Sheriff to have county wide jurisdiction when working a Heroin Interdiction Team detail.

“Law enforcement agencies in both counties are working well together, these statistics show the combined effort of Mercer County Law Enforcement to combat this community problem,” stated Sheriff Grey, “We will continue to aggressively pursue drug offenses throughout the county.”

The three pronged approach of aggressive enforcement, treatment, and education, seem to making an impact.  “Several people who we have arrested in the past, have taken advantage of the opportunities given to them while incarcerated in the Mercer County jail to get themselves into recovery.  The partnership between the jail, the courts, the Houses of Hope and Brianna’s Hope are making a difference.  I am very proud when I see people in the community, living a good life, drug free after fighting addiction, I feel like the Sheriff’s Office, jail, and other law enforcement has had a positive impact on their lives.  It isn’t easy for them, but it is possible if they take advantage of opportunities given to them.  Several have and they are proof that those with addiction problems can turn their life around,” stated Sheriff Grey.

Jeff Grey

Sheriff

Western Ohio Civil War Roundtable to Meet

Coming up on Thursday, January 26, 2023, the Western Ohio Civil War Roundtable, we will be discussing Civil War Time Period money - the kind of everyday money that citizens carried with them as a medium of exchange. There was a shortage of metals, and some coinage was halted and replaced with paper money...right, a dime could be folded up and concealed inside the lining of a shirt or under a hatband. 

The evening speaker will be John Sacher, a coin expert from Celina. John is a practicing attorney. He says, "I'm not a Civil War expert, My expertise lies in the study of currency, old coins and bills."  Join the club on Thursday evening, January 26.  The meeting comes to order at 7:15 PM.

Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

Pastor Michael Husted at St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, January 22, 2023. Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit with a sermon straight from the Bible. Based on Matthew 4:17-23, the title is “It’s About Time”.

Sunday school is now beginning at 9:15 AM. Children’s Junior Church is now every Sunday except the last Sunday of the month. Bible based lessons and children’s activities taught. Snacks.

Please call the church office for Pastor Mike at 419-942-1374 for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome.

January 9-15, 2023
 

Bridge Inspection

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart announced recently that the yearly bridge inspections of Mercer County’s 379 bridges on township and county roads have been completed.  Engineer Wiechart completed the inspections before the end of 2022.

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

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey to Retire in 2025 - New Sheriff to be elected in 2024

Celina, OH - Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today his intention to retire at the conclusion of this term.  It is important to announce now as 2023 is preparation year for a 2024 election cycle.  The primary election is in March, 2024.  Ohio moves it primary from May to March during Presidential Election years, so qualification deadlines and filing deadlines are in 2023.

Sheriff Grey started in law enforcement in 1980 and was first elected Sheriff in 2000, beginning his tenure as Sheriff on January 1, 2001.  He is finishing his 6th term, which will end on January 5, 2025. 

It has been a real pleasure to serve the people of Mercer County and I thank them for the privilege of serving as their sheriff.  I also want thank the men and women of the Sheriff’s Office who have worked tirelessly for the people of Mercer County and who have made my career successful.  Without them, I could not have succeeded.  Finally, I thank my wife, Kay, and my sons and their families who have been supportive of my law enforcement career.  I’m looking forward to spending more time with them.

I have been contemplating retirement for a couple of years and have been working closely with a current member of my command to staff to help prepare him to become the next sheriff.  At the conclusion of this term, the Sheriff’s Office will be in capable hands.  I won’t release his name, I’ll allow him to make his announcement when he feels the time is right.

I have 6 wonderful grandchildren and I look forward to spending more time with family, spoiling the grandkids, and doing some travel with Kay.  I have two years to go, I plan to finish strong and continue to work hard for the final two years of this chapter of my life.

Sheriff Jeff Grey
Mercer County Sheriff’s Office

Lions Clubs Support Parkway Eighth Grade Class Trip

Rockford Lion Club member Dennis Hecht presents a check for $2500 to Parkway Middle School principal Brian Woods. Also present (L to R) are Matt Grunden of the Mendon Lions Club and Kevin Krall of the Willshire Lions Club. The funds raised were a joint effort of the three Lions clubs and will support the Parkway Eighth Grade Class Trip in the Spring of 2023.

Ethel Pontsler, Rockford Artist Passed Away on December 30, 2022

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

These were located in the former Nazarene Church (formerly Ethel's art studio for a number of years) at the corner of Market St and Franklin St that is was razed in July 2020 in Rockford.

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

Pastor Michael Husted at St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, January 15th, 2023. Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit with a sermon straight from the Bible. Based on I Corinthians 1:1-9, the title is “Work Left to be Done”.

Sunday school is now beginning at 9:15 AM. Children’s Junior Church is now every Sunday except the last Sunday of the month. Bible based lessons and children’s activities taught. Snacks.

Please call the church office for Pastor Mike at 419-942-1374 for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome.

January 1-8, 2023
 

Winter Homecoming 2023 Planned at Parkway

The Parkway Student Government is pleased to invite all community members and alumni to the annual winter homecoming festivities. This year’s homecoming game, which sees the Parkway basketball team facing off against Coldwater, will be held on January 20th starting at 6:00pm. The homecoming festivities will be held after the J.V game beginning at approximately 7:15pm. This year, the lovely attendants of Parkway’s Homecoming Court include Freshman Jordyn Schafer, Sophomore Emerson Esselstein, and Junior Frankie Steinbrunner. The three Senior candidates for Homecoming Queen are Abby Baltzell, Aaliyah Baxter, & Emree Sinning. Come and enjoy the efforts of the Parkway basketball team, pep band, and student government, and find out which lucky lady is crowned Homecoming Queen!

The Shanes Park link at the top of this page Shanes Park (Rockford Alive website) has all of the details on how you can plan your own event in Rockford. There are details on the park, the buildings, rental forms, costs and contact information. Give the link a try and look at the Google Calendar month by month. Amy Joseph is in charge of rentals.

 First Baby Born at Van Wert Health in 2023

The first baby born in the year 2023 was top proud parents: Jarrett Hornish (dad) and Alexa Campbell (mom). The baby was name John Hornish, born on January 1 at 8:44 PM and weighing in at 7 lbs, 10 ounces.

The new parents received a large give basket from Van Wert Health to celebrate the New Year's birth, which included board books, wipes, toys, bath supplies, a diaper caddy, and gift card.

ART GROUP STARTS THE NEW YEAR 
The Lake Area Arts Group welcomes 2023 for members and new members on
Wednesday, January 11, 6pm at their gallery, 108 S MaIn St.,Celina at Brew Nation. The community can also participate in 2023 classes to be
offered in jewelry, 3D art, beaded wire tree sculptures, macramé
crystal pendants, as well as various paint media.
Speaker for this months meeting will be artist Jan Miesse who uses
acrylic paint in beautiful large canvases displayed in many area
businesses. Miesse has a self taught abstract style where she lets her  feelings comes to the canvas in vivid colors. She has been a business
woman in Celina for many years and painting became a relaxing creative
outlet for her.
Any artist can share their art at the meeting and you need not be a
member to attend the meeting.

Culvert Replacement in Marion Township
The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close St. Johns Road between Ft. Recovery Minster Road and Huwer Road in Marion Township for a culvert replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on January 9, 2023 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 2 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

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

 Parkway School Board Agenda for Organizational and Regular Meetings
 on January 9, 2023 at 6:00 pm

Rockford Carnegie Library Board to Meet

The Rockford Carnegie Library will meet in regular session in the library basement meeting room at 4 pm on Tuesday, January 10, 2023.  The public is welcome to attend.

Pastor Michael Husted at St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, January 8, 2023. Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit with a sermon straight from the Bible. Based on Isaiah 43:16-21, the title is “New Horizons”.

Sunday school is now beginning at 9:15 AM. Children’s Junior Church is now every Sunday except the last Sunday of the month. Bible based lessons and children’s activities taught. Snacks.

Please call the church office for Pastor Mike at 419-942-1374 for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome.

Together on Christmas 2022

Rockford area churches combined this year to serve the community with a free meal, Together on Christmas.  In the beautifully decorated Rockford Community Building, a delicious meal of chicken in gravy, baked pork chop, mashed potatoes and gravy, homemade stuffing, green beans, roll and a dessert was provided for dine in/sit down or as takeout.  More than 100 servants worked to provide this labor of love, along with 45 dessert bakers.  Approximately 560 meals were served on Christmas Day 2022.

January 4, 2023 Common Please Court News Van Wert County
By Kim K. Pollock, Court Reporter

Tuesday, January 3, 2023

JUDGE MARTIN D. BURCHFIELD

INTERVENTION IN LIEU/BOND VIOLATION

James Jewell, 40, Van Wert, admitted violating his bond and intervention in lieu by consuming intoxicants.  Court sets new bond at $10,000 cash or commercial surety;  sentencing set for February 8, 2023, at 9:30 a.m.

Korbin Taylor, 24, Van Wert, admitted violating his bond by failure to report to his Court hearing and for not appearing for electronic house arrest.  Court sets new bond at $10,000 cash or commercial surety; sentencing set for 1/4/23 @ 8:30 a.m.

SENTENCING

Colby Black, 39, Van Wert, Aggravated Possession of Drugs, F5 – sentenced to 12 months prison with credit for 30 days time already served; Possession of a Fentanyl-Related Compound, F5 – sentenced to 12 months prison with credit for 30 days time; Trespass in a Habitation where a Person is Present or Likely to be Present, F5 – sentenced to 16 months prison with credit for 30 days time already served.  All 3 sentences to be served concurrent; also ordered to pay partial appointed counsel fees and court costs.

Wednesday, January 4, 2023

JUDGE MARTIN D. BURCHFIELD

SENTENCING

Korbin Taylor, 24, Van Wert, Theft from a Person in a Protected Class, F5 – sentenced to 180 days jail with credit for 28 days time already served, $175 restitution, partial appointed counsel fees and court costs.

Revival Spa Under New Ownership

Rehabilitative Services Inc. and Simply Holistic , LLC announce the sale of the Revival Spa at the Galleria business operation effective January 1, 2023. New owners of the business are Amber Evers and Michelle Kahlig of Simply Holistic, LLC, whose current business operation is located at 120 W Main St. in Coldwater.  They plan to continue to operate in their Coldwater location and the Revival Spa location in the Galleria will be their new location in Celina.  

The Revival Spa was first opened in 2005 in the Breakaway RecPlex and later moved to its current location in the Galleria in 2009.  The Revival Spa has provided massage therapy services as well as skin care and nail services to the community for the past eighteen years.  

Bob Hibner commented that “We want to thank all of our clients over the years for their loyal patronage and support. It has been a well-received service that has helped us meet our mission statement of enhancing client’s health and well-being.”  As Manager of the Revival Spa Sharon Hibner said “it has been a pleasure to serve our clients and meet their health and well-being needs!  We have been blessed by a dedicated staff of massage therapists and other health care specialists over the years!” 

Sharon and Bob are happy to welcome the owners and employees of Simply Holistic and they feel they will continue to provide quality services to our area and they encourage the community to patronize the new business owners.   All gift certificates sold by the Revival Spa will still be valid and honored by the new ownership up until their original expiration date including those just sold during this holiday season.

For the ongoing future, Rehabilitative Services Inc. will continue to operate its other business entities including the Community Sports and Therapy Center which provides physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology, and athletic training services in multiple settings including schools, hospitals, and industries in West-central Ohio.  The Community Sports and Therapy Center also looks forward to several new ventures coming in 2023! 

Pictured: Bob and Sharon Hibner of Rehabilitative Services Inc. and Amber Evers and Michelle Kahlig of Simply Holistic, LLC.

Mercer County Community Hospital welcomes First Baby of 2023

Mercer Health’s Mercer County Community Hospital’s first baby of the year was born on Monday, January 2, 2023. Noel Spencer, daughter of Cody and Suzanne Spencer of Ansonia, was born at 8:16 p.m., weighing 7 pounds, 9.2 ounces and measuring 18.5 inches. Noel was welcomed by her parents and three-year old brother Maverick.

The family received a blanket and gift card from The Gift Shop at Mercer Health among other gifts.

January 16th – Village office closed -     Martin Luther King Jr. Day                                 

Dog Tags available at the Village office until January 31st – 4 pm.

Discussion over the increase from $175 to $350 per day for Shanes Park community building rental.
Thank you to those who helped with Christmas Activities, which were a success.

Shanes Park Building Rental - Contact: Mayor Amy Joseph
(419) 771-6893
shanesparkrentals@gmail.com

BICENTENNIAL ARTICLES - CLICK HERE

Free Bowling for Seniors Citizens

The Celina Circle of Care invites seniors ages 55+ for a free day of bowling on January 26th. You must RSVP in advance to participate due to limited space. Bowling will take place from 12-2:00 pm on January 26th at Plaza Lanes in Celina located at 114 E. Forest St. Celina, OH 45822.

To register for this event, please call 1-800-417-7535 option 6 during regular business hours. You must register in advance for this event due to limited space. A fried chicken lunch special will be available to purchase from the bowling alley for you to enjoy before, during, or after the bowling session.

Door prizes and a highest score prize will be awarded at the event.

The Celina Circle of Care is a collaboration between organizations offering care to senior citizens in Celina. The group consists of Celina Manor, CHP, EverHeart Hospice, Heritage Healthcare, Miller Place, and the Gardens at Celina.

VWCT presents Annie Jr.

The Sun’ll Come Out Tomorrow, we hope.  But it definitely will be coming out when Van Wert Civic Theatre presents the youth production of Annie Jr. on the Niswonger Performing Arts Center stage on January 21 at 7:30 PM and January 22 at 2 PM.  This show, presented in collaboration with Van Wert Live, is suitable for all ages and will provide a Broadway experience at an affordable price.  

Over 50 Van Wert area youth under the direction of Doug Grooms bring a one-hour version of this musical to life.  Emily Foudy as Annie is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of an orphanage run by the cruel Miss Hannigan.  Annie foils the evil schemes of Tess Vonderwell as Miss Hannigan, Katelyn Knepper as Lily St. Regis, and Dante’ Lippi as Rooster to begin her life in a new home and family with billionaire Oliver Warbucks and his personal secretary, Grace Farrell, portrayed by Evan Falk and Rachael Ryan.  

Other cast and crew members include Alexis Ardner, Brooklyn Arnett, Olivia Ashbaugh, Bowen Ayers, Grayson Baker, Grant Bonifas, Noelle Byrum, Rachel Cluts, Abby Dannenfelser, Owen Dannenfelser, Ryker DeVelvis, Kendal Ellerbrock, Elijah Foudy, Aubrey Friedrich, Beth Garrett, Natalie Goewert, Gwen Goins, Hadley Goins, Parker Goins, Addison Gonzalez, Meadow Hamilton, Alivia Hines, Whitney Holliday, Reese Horstman, Haven Hunt, Colin Ketchum, Beth Keysor, Claire Keysor, Ivy Lippi, Abbie Mengerink, Ferrous Nihiser, Logan Nihiser, Alison Owens, Evelyn Petrie, Bingham Rammel, Jettie Rammel, Sydney Rauch, Mara Ryan, Jasleen Sharma, Mox Sinn, Kennedy Sites, Kimberly Sites, Larissa Sterrett, Eden Stoller, Faith Stoller, Sophia Stoller, Gabby Thomas, Liam Webb, Kylara Wilhelm, and Ash Zapata. 

Tickets are $12 for a limited number of reserved seating and $10 for general admission seating with an additional $5 fee per ticket.  Purchase tickets at vanwertlive.com, in person at the NPAC, or call at 419-238-6722. The NPAC is located at 10700 State Route 118 South in Van Wert.  Van Wert Live box office hours are Monday - Friday 10 AM to 3 PM.  Tickets will also be available for purchase before each performance.  If you have questions, please contact VWCT at 419-238-9689.

PWMS 2nd Quarter Honor Roll

By Kristi Dodds
Parkway Middle School Secretary

5th Grade 

Highest Honor Roll

Gibbons, Lydia 

Menchhofer, Bailee 

Molloy, Adelaide 

Trent, Cameo 

5th Grade

High Honor Roll

Art, Autumn 

Baker, Chloe 

Bransteter, Hunter 

Bransteter, Kallee 

Burtch, Althea 

Clay, Hudsen 

England, Jackson 

England, Madilyn 

Flory, Caile 

Gage, Kolten 

Gruss, Kinlee 

Harvey, Annabelle 

Hays, Meadow 

Heiser, Landyn 

Houser, Frank 

Keeran, Emily 

Knapke, Ryder 

Long, Ainsley 

Moorman, Holly 

Norris, Kenlee 

Pond, Jenna 

Shirk, Elijah 

Sill, Oliver 

Sipe, Sophie 

Snell, Claire 

Snell, Paige 

Tickle, Savannah 

Vannette, Waylon 

Wannemacher, Avah 

Young, Briar

5th Grade

Honor Roll

Abromavich, Carter 

Abromavich, Meah

Bash, Isabella 

Gray, Trinity 

Hague, Jasmine 

Hogg, Warren 

Long, Braylin 

Shellabarger, Elliot 

Tawoj, Julien 

Taylor, Dexter 

Twigg, Hayden 

Whitaker, Cooper

6th Grade 

Highest Honor Roll

Brehm, Kallie 

Cottman, Lydia 

Knapke, Isabelle 

Korte, Bosten 

Korte, Cohen 

Sipe, Abigail 

Stover, Hadley 

Stover, Jaxson 

Triplett, Savada 

6th Grade

High Honor Roll

Burtch, Brooklyn 

Eller, Kade 

Ford, Kayliann 

Hays, Ella 

Hileman, Maxton 

Imwalle, Allison 

Jacobs, Aubrey 

Laux, Ezekiel (Zeke) 

Louth, Chase 

Nichols, Lindsay 

Orick, James 

Piper, Michael 

Severt, Steven 

Tong, Carson 

Uncapher, Baylee 

Winget, Gabriel (Gabe) 

Yoder, Greer 

6th Grade

Honor Roll

Baker, Jacklyn (Jackie) 

Baucher, Alivia 

Bradley, Branson 

Burnett, Halen 

Clifford, Walker 

Fisher, Gavin 

Pancake, Claire 

Sawmiller, Aiden 

Sinning, Stella

Tarilang, Tommy 

Zizelman, Corbin

7th Grade 

Highest Honor Roll

Eichler, Lydia 

Menchhofer, Isaac 

Moeller, Elayna 

Peel, Jaymin 

Pennell, Piper 

Stover, KJae 

Thomas, Cade 

Williamson, Abigail 

7th Grade

High Honor Roll

Anderson, Trey 

Bransteter, Case 

Christian, Kayden 

Fox, Levon 

Garrity, Sterling 

Hague, Jordan 

Harner, Ellie 

Heitkamp, Nicole 

Hess, Kymberly 

Ketchum, Colin 

Kraner, Addilynn 

Lyons, Branson 

Mathewson, Mason 

Minnich, Trevor

Muhlenkamp, Peyton 

Murphy, Marley 

Noll, Andee 

Poe, Caleb 

Rasbach, Chayse 

Ravine, Payton 

Reigle, Nathan 

Ross, Jackson (Jack) 

Roth, Albany 

Schmidt, Amelia 

Schumm, Drayden 

Schwieterman, Perry 

Stauffer, Carson 

Stolly, Ethan 

Suzuki, Cohen 

Trisel, William (Will) 

Twigg, Tyson 

VanTrees, Emma

Williams, Obadiah 

Yaney, Addyson (Addy) 

7th Grade

Honor Roll

Bollenbacher, Jaxson 

Buogo, Maria 

Byer, Uriah 

Clay, Makynlie 

Correll, Carlee 

England, Carter 

Foss, Jadon 

Glosser, Lacey 

Henning, Sophia 

Joseph, Kinley 

Keller, Cael 

Knapke, Rowen 

Muhlenkamp, Ella 

Nuttle, Dylan 

Painter, Bryson 

Shoaf, Rylan 

Strickland, Natalie 

Tarilang, Dora 

Vannette, Stella 

Whitaker, Magnus 

Young, Lillian 

8th Grade 

Highest Honor Roll

Blount, Freya 

Booher, Luke 

Hays, Lillian 

Hughes, Megan 

Pancake, Wyatt 

Rich, Magdalene 

Stover, Madelyn 

Tickle, Samuel 

8th Grade

High Honor Roll

Ackley, Mason 

Arnold, Kelsie 

Bennett, Charles (Charlie) 

Bollenbacher, Dylan 

Buckner, Sasha 

Carpenter, Rhen 

Denney, Bethany 

Everett, Aisley 

Fullenkamp, Kara 

Haines, Oliver 

Knapke, Austin 

Langenkamp, Cami 

Litteral, Kohen 

Louth, Morgan 

Quickstad, Jaymie 

Reigle, Brody 

Ridenour, Gwyneth 

Rogers, Adalynn 

Shirk, Robert 

Sites, Lexie 

Thomas, Jensen 

Triplett, Jacoby 

Westgerdes, Gavin 

Winget, Grace 

Winters, Tobin 

Young, Isabell 

Williams, Arwen 

Winget, Grace  

Winters, Tobin  

Young, Isabell  

Younker, Kylie

8th Grade

Honor Roll

Bailey, Zavior 

Bentz, Morgan 

Brister, Gage 

Clay, Holden 

Eguia, Piper 

Kellermeyer, Kelsie 

Kiser, Faith 

Lange, Jayda 

Pennell, Peyton 

Rutledge, Tyler 

Sheets, Luke 

Slone, Damen 

Taylor, Deagan 

Wenning, Jaden 

Younker, Kylie

Grants Awarded to Historic Main Street Van Wert 

VAN WERT - Historic Main Street Van Wert graciously accepted several grants through the Van Wert County Foundation on Thursday (1/5/23). These grants will help Historic Main Street Van Wert continue to create a thriving community, add vibrancy, host events, and create a sense of place throughout the Downtown District.

Main Street Van Wert received $2,500 from the Ilo D. and Carlos E. Miller Memorial Fund for Main Street America Accreditation, $12,000 from the Flickinger Fund for operational expenses, and $3,000 from the John W. Eustler Am Vets Post 698 Video Raffle Fund for operational expenses through the Van Wert County Foundation. These funds are an endowment created to support the charitable needs of our community.

Historic Main Street Van Wert would like to thank the Van Wert County Foundation for their continued support to our organization and community.

(Pictured from left, Laney Nofer Van Wert County Foundation Planning and Resources, Joe Dray Main Street Van Wert Executive Director, and Seth Baker Van Wert County Foundation Chief Executive Officer)

Van Wert County Agricultural Society Receives Grants from Van Wert County Foundation Van Wert, OH

The Van Wert County Agricultural Society has received two grants from the Van Wert County Foundation totaling $36,750 from the John D. and Nellie S. Ault Memorial Fund. The Ag Society applied for the grants during the 2022 Fall Competitive Grant Cycle. The competitive grant cycle is a biannual process where Van Wert County nonprofits, government, and schools can apply for funding for special projects or programs impacting Van Wert County. The applications submitted are reviewed and voted on by The Foundation’s Board of Trustees with the main focus of the process being how the organization’s project is focused on creating a well-resourced and thriving quality of life for our community. “At the Van Wert County Fairgrounds, we have a list of projects that will enhance our patrons’ experience that we would like to see come to fruition,” states Mike Poling, Van Wert County Fair Secretary and Fair Manager. “$20,000 of our received grant funds will be used to update the restrooms in the Junior Fair building. Without the generosity of the Van Wert County Foundation and our other donors, completing projects like this one would be difficult. Especially with the rising costs of materials.” These funds are allocated for specific projects, one being the restroom renovations in the Junior Fair Building and the second supporting continued marketing efforts to best communicate information and events to the Van Wert Community.

December 27-31, 2022
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 18 years!
 

Happy New Year!

Father & Son Artists Turn Music, Craft Beer, Social Media Into a Perpetual National Tour, Playing New Year's Eve at Celina Brewery

Dennis O’Hagan’s job is to travel the country playing guitar, drinking craft beer, and writing about it... And it’s working out quite well, despite hurricanes and even a global pandemic. Now he’s prepping a documentary/reality show based on his adventures which combines the brewery visits, live music, and the humorous shenanigans that occur on the road between breweries, and his national tour will make a stop New Year's Eve in Celina, to play a show at Brew Nation/Lake Rat Brewery.

O’Hagan, 51 walked away from a successful career in tech and embarked in 2018 on a national tour playing his music in craft breweries throughout the U.S., drinking their beers as he played, and then blogging about the breweries, their product, and his traveling adventures after each show.  He has so far played more than 500 breweries in more than 40 states, while sharing his thoughts on his travels and thousands of pints of beer along the way.

Continuing to ride a wave of increasing demand, Dennis O’Hagan’s Great Brewery Tour grew even bigger in 2022, and will enter its sixth year in 2023. To meet the increasing demand, O’Hagan brought his musician son Brad Wehlitz, 25, (who also fronts acclaimed Cincinnati based indie band Freak Mythology) into the fold, and they now share the stage as a duo, changed the tour's name to Dennis & Brad’s Great Brewery Tour, and incorporate both of their talents as multi-instrumentalists to greatly expand the sonic scope of the shows... as the two switch off on acoustic guitars, bass, percussion, lapsteel, mandolin, bouzouki, harmonica, and rich vocal harmonies.  Stylistically, the band's music incorporates an eclectic mix of their own music, classic and college rock, and traditional Americana and Celtic influences to form a fun, upbeat acoustic sound they refer to as folkpunk. 

The show will follow the tour as it travels all over the country, highlighting craft breweries as diverse as big urban brands to rural and mountaintop farm breweries.  The tour will make a stop at Celina's Brew Nation/Lake Rat Brewery to play a show this New Year's Eve (9pm).  The tour will then play a few more shows around Ohio before formally kicking off the 2023 tour on Feb 2 in Jacksonville, Florida.  

Parkway January 2023 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Respiratory Illness Testing Updates

Effective January 1, 2023, respiratory illness testing for influenza, COVID, strep, etc. will be performed in our physician offices, as well as at Doctors’ Urgent Care. Mercer Health North Main, located in Celina, will no longer be available as a testing center. Individuals suspecting a respiratory illness should contact their primary care provider office. If an individual’s primary care office does not have availability, they can schedule in another Mercer Health Medical Group primary care office. 

If an individual does not have an established primary care provider, the Mercer Health hotline is available by calling 567-890-MHMD (6463), Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Individuals will be scheduled with the first available Mercer Health Medical Group primary care office. 

Attached is more information including a listing of all office locations and phone numbers.

Road Closures – Intermittent – Hellwarth Road

The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is announcing that temporary and intermittent closures on Hellwarth Road between SR 29 and Mud Pike for drainage improvements, shoulder & pavement widening as well as resurfacing roadway improvements will occur over the course of the next ½ year.  Work to this road, via contractor, will be intermittent in nature, with varying dates & times of road closure.  Work is set to be complete by June 30, 2023.

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

Pastor Michael Husted at St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, January 1, 2022. Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit with a sermon for New Year’s Day morning. Based on Luke 2:15-20, the title is “The Gospel of the Shepherds”.

Sunday school is now beginning at 9:15 AM. Children’s Junior Church is now every Sunday except the last Sunday of the month. Bible based lessons and children’s activities taught. Snacks.

Please call the church office for Pastor Mike at 419-942-1374 for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome.

December 20-26, 2022
 

Services Canceled December 24 and 25, 2022
St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford, located at 1538 Oregon Road has canceled both the Christmas Eve Candlelight Service and the Christmas Day service due to the severe weather conditions. A Blessed Christmas to all. Call 419-733-3326 if you have questions.

Merry Christmas!!!

Mercer County Sheriff's Department - Saturday, December 24, 2022 - 10:05 AM

All snow level warnings are cancelled, please use extreme caution when traveling as some roadways remain slick and hazardous.

Mercer County Sheriff's Department - Saturday, December 24, 2022 - Level 3 Emergency Update

At 7:00 AM on Saturday, December 24, 2022, Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey extended the Level Three Snow Emergency for the unincorporated areas of Mercer County. All roads in the unincorporated areas of Mercer County will be on the Level Three Snow Emergency which means all roads will be closed due to hazardous conditions with blowing and drifting snow.

Sheriff Grey will re-assess the situation at 10 AM on Saturday, December 24, 2022.

Mercer County Sheriff's Department - Friday, December 23, 2022 - Level 3 Emergency Update

At 7:00 PM on Friday, December 23, 2022, Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey is issuing a Level Three Snow Emergency for the unincorporated areas of Mercer County. All roads in the unincorporated areas of Mercer County will be on the Level Three Snow Emergency which means all roads will be closed due to hazardous conditions with blowing and drifting snow. Roads are becoming impassable. Sheriff Grey will assess the situation at 7 AM on Saturday, December 24, 2022.

Mercer County Sheriff's Department - Friday, December 23, 2022 - Level 2 Update

At 1:30 PM on Friday, December 23, 2022, Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey issued a Level Two Snow Advisory for the unincorporated areas of Mercer County. This includes all state roads, county roads and township roads in the unincorporated areas of Mercer County. A Level Two Snow Advisory means roads are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Some roads are becoming impassable. Only those who find it necessary should be out on the roadways. Use extreme caution when driving.

Pictures shared by Todd Henkle at 1 PM on Friday, December 23, 2022. Thanks Todd!
 

Todd Henkle of Henkle Insurance sent these winter storm pictures and reminds everyone to check their windows for SNOW that may blow in with these fierce winds. Thanks Todd!

Mercer County Sheriff's Department - Friday, December 23, 2022.

Alert: Please avoid US Rte 33 at St Rte 707. It is blocked due to slide offs. Continue to use caution while driving.

Mercer County Sheriff's Department
Alert at 6:13 AM, Friday, December 23, 2022, : Mercer County is on a Level 1 snow emergency. Roadways are slick. Use extreme caution while traveling due to white-out conditions.

Instructions:

Use caution while traveling

Mercer County Sheriff's Department

Alert: At 5:30am Friday, December 23, 2022, Sheriff Jeff Grey issued a Level One snow emergency for Mercer County.

Instructions:

Use caution when traveling

Feed The Farmers
by reporter Amanda Barrett

The Parkway FFA officers chose to participate in an event called, Feed the Farmers. Feed the Farmers is a way the chapter can give back to the community and help our farmers during the stressful season of harvest. The officers worked together to make meals that included a pizza sub, granola bar, chips, apple sauce, and a cookie. As the officers split into groups they gave out 80 meals to local farmers. A special thanks to all the farmers and families that work so hard during harvest season, and all year round.

2022 FFA National Convention
by reporter Amanda Barrett

The Parkway FFA Chapter attended the National FFA Convention and Expo to look back on another great year in the organization. The trip started out with 14 Parkway students traveling to Fort Recovery to tour J&M Manufacturing company to see how farm equipment is built. After that, they traveled to Indiana and toured Poet Bioprocessing in Alexandria IN, Albanese Candy Factory in Merrillville IN, Fair Oaks Farms in Fair Oaks IN, and RDM Aquaculture Shrimp Farm in Fowler IN. After two days of touring the FFA members got in their official dress and went to the opening ceremony. The next two days the students sat through sessions where they listened to the National Officer team, keynote speakers Tamika Catchings and Coty Back, and the State FFA Band and Chorus. In between each session, the students had the opportunity to walk around the Convention Expo. The expo center is a place for businesses, colleges, and organizations to set up booths. Students then get the chance to go around and learn about what each booth has to offer. Carter Hellwarth was able to represent Ohio by qualifying for Nationals in the Prepared Public speaking CDE. He had to write a 6-8 minute speech fully memorized about something Agriculture-related and answer questions after giving his speech for 5 minutes about the topic. Carter chose to write about Victory Gardens, he said, “My speech was about comparing historic gardening practices in America and how a movement of further gardening could have many benefits, especially in Agriculture awareness.” The journey to Nationals started in the spring when Carter went to the State competition, and after two rounds won the Prepared Speaking CDE for Ohio. After winning Carter had to practice and prepare for the big day in Indianapolis. On October 26, 2022, Carter represented Ohio at Nationals and was able to place in the bronze category. Carter said, “This was a great opportunity for me to meet great people and members from other states.” Ohio and Parkway were well represented at National Convention this year.

Fall Soils CDE

By reporter Amanda Barrett

The Parkway FFA chapter participated in the Ag and Urban soils CDE this fall. The soils CDE is a competition to judge the precious token of farming, soil. Each student is given a card with an assortment of questions. Then, the student fills the card out to the best of their ability, judging the different qualities of the soil. Some questions include soil texture, color, and landform usage. At districts, both teams did well but the Urban team strived the most. Placing 2nd in Districts, the Urban team was able to advance to the State level. This team consisted of Carter Hellwarth, Madison Jacobs, Scarlett Laux, and Gaven Garwood. At state, they placed 17th, short of going to nationals in Oklahoma.

Older FFA articles and pictures - Click Here

Van Wert Health to Join OhioHealth as 14th Full Member Hospital

VAN WERT, Ohio — OhioHealth and Van Wert Health announced today that the board of directors of both organizations have voted to enter into a membership agreement that will make Van Wert Health a full member of the OhioHealth system.

Van Wert Health will become OhioHealth’s 14th full member hospital, a milestone that will be celebrated with a welcoming ceremony in early 2023. The event also marks the beginning of an integration period that is expected to continue throughout the coming year.

The affirmative vote by both boards occurred on December 14.

“OhioHealth is the best partner to deepen our commitment to patient safety, quality, and patient experience. We approached our discussions with them very purposefully, and we ultimately selected OhioHealth because they provide the greatest long-term financial stability along with their unwavering commitment to delivering healthcare locally,” said Tom Turnwald, chairman of the Van Wert Health Board of Trustees. 

“OhioHealth and Van Wert Health share a vision to keep high quality, affordable and accessible healthcare in Van Wert County,” said John McWhorter, senior vice president and chief operating officer, OhioHealth. “Being part of the OhioHealth family ensures that Van Wert Health will continue to thrive thanks to the resources, scale and benefits inherent in a large, quality-driven health system like OhioHealth.”

The membership agreement will bring the 34-bed Van Wert Hospital, its physicians, associates and four outpatient centers and physician practices under the OhioHealth umbrella.

“At our core, we are here to care for the people in our communities,” said Jon Bagley, interim president and CEO, Van Wert Health. “Healthcare is broader than just what happens within the walls of a single facility. This affiliation provides the organizational scale and leadership talent needed to deliver exceptional patient care and to strengthen local access to services.

“Van Wert Health is a natural fit for OhioHealth as we share similar culture and values,” said Bruce Hagen, president, OhioHealth region. “We’re also impressed by their modern facilities, strong team of providers and associates and their unwavering commitment to providing quality care. We are very excited to welcome Van Wert into the OhioHealth family and for the opportunity to serve the Van Wert community.”

On December 14, the OhioHealth board of directors also voted to welcome Guernsey Health Systems into the OhioHealth family, which includes Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center, OhioHealth’s 13th hospital. Southeastern Med, located in Cambridge, Ohio, has been renamed OhioHealth Southeastern Medical Center as part of the membership agreement. A welcome celebration for Guernsey Health has been scheduled for January 11, 2023.

About Van Wert Health

For more than a century Van Wert Health has been caring for patients throughout the northwest Ohio and northeast Indiana regions. A devoted team of nearly 500 nationally-regarded physicians, clinicians, nurses, and staff provide exceptional, high-quality care to patients at five locations – all with a unified goal of improving the lives of the people in the communities we serve.

In 2019 and 2022, Van Wert Health Hospital was named one of the top 100 rural and community hospitals in the United States by the Chartis Center for Rural Health.

About OhioHealth

Based in Columbus, Ohio, OhioHealth is a nationally recognized, not-for-profit, charitable, healthcare outreach of the United Methodist Church.  Serving its communities since 1891, it is a family of 35,000 associates, physicians and volunteers, and a network of 14 hospitals, 200+ ambulatory sites, hospice, home-health, medical equipment and other health services spanning a 47-county area. It has been recognized by FORTUNE as one of the “100 Best Companies to Work For” 15 times since 2007. 

OhioHealth hospitals include OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital, OhioHealth Grant Medical Center, OhioHealth Doctors Hospital, OhioHealth Grady Memorial Hospital, OhioHealth Dublin Methodist Hospital, OhioHealth Hardin Memorial Hospital, OhioHealth Marion General Hospital, OhioHealth O’Bleness Hospital, OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital, OhioHealth Shelby Hospital, OhioHealth Grove City Methodist Hospital, OhioHealth Berger Hospital, OhioHealth Southeastern Medical Center and Van Wert Health. For more information, please visit our website at www.ohiohealth.com.  

One Dies in Car Crash

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports that deputies are investigating a fatal traffic crash that occurred earlier this morning, December 19th.  Mercer County Central Dispatch received a call at 6:28 AM of a crash at the intersection of Rice Rd and Oregon Rd in Center Township.

The investigation revealed that Serina Siano, 26, Mendon was driving a 2021 gray Honda Accord, traveling southbound on Rice Rd.   Becky Fuson 43, Celina was driving a 2019 silver Chevrolet Impala, traveling eastbound on Oregon Rd.  Siano ran the stop sign at the intersection of Rice Rd and Oregon Rd, striking Fuson’s vehicle in the driver’s side.

Both Siano and Fuson were transported by Celina EMS to Joint Township District Memorial Hospital in St. Mary’s for treatment, where Fuson was pronounced deceased.

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

The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Team was called to the scene.  This crash remains under investigation at this time and will be forwarded to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office for review.

Rockford Chamber Names Business of the 2022 Year

2022 Business of the Year -  Congratulations to:   Belna Petroleum

Incorporated in August 6, 1991 - Belna Petroleum leadership includes Rob, his wife Nancy, and son Jordan.  
We recognize Belna Petroleum, not only as a successful business, but a true constant supporter of the local community.

Through numerous project and donations, Belna Petroleum's desire to see our community thrive has been seen by all.  Most recently, they helped make amusement rides possible during Rockford Community Days.

On behalf of The Rockford Chamber of Commerce and as the 2021 Business of the Year, Second Crossing Brew Co proudly presents The 2022 Business of the Year - Belna Petroleum.   Congratulations !

Photos - Luke Stephenson of Second Crossing presented the award to the Belna Family.   Rick Muhlenkamp from the Commissioners office presented a Procalamation.   Mayor Joseph - on behalf of the Rockford Village and Community Days Committee - Thanks for supporting our community.    The Belna Family.

Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

Pastor Michael Husted at St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, December 25, 2022. Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit with a sermon for Christmas morning. Based on Luke 2:15-20, the title is “Christmas: The Gospel of the Shepherds”.

Sunday school is now beginning at 9:15 AM. Children’s Junior Church is now every Sunday except the last Sunday of the month. Bible based lessons and children’s activities taught. Snacks.

Please call the church office for Pastor Mike at 419-942-1374 for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome.

Parkway Schools Board of Education Posts Minutes and Agendas

Board Secretary Sally Cox reports that the Board minutes can be found on Parkway’s homepage by clicking on the following:

www.parkwayschools.org

Admin/BOE

Parkway Board of Education

2022-2023 School Year  (note-minutes and agendas are listed by school year-not calendar year)

https://www.parkwayschools.org/administration/parkway_board_of_education/2022-2023_school_year

New Spiritual Leader Comes to St. Paul's Country Church

Pastor Michael Husted became the new spiritual leader of St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford on November 1, 2022, where the membership of the independent church welcomes him. They also invite the community to come and hear him preach from the Bible on Sunday mornings at 10 AM.

Pastor Mike’s childhood was spent in the Canton, OH area and on the shores of Lake Erie. He was raised in the United Methodist Church of his family and enjoys speaking at St. Paul’s Country Church where the wooden, vaulted sanctuary ceiling and stained glass windows remind him of the St. Paul’s United Methodist Church of his youth.  It was at the Methodist Church that he took his training in the Lay Speaking program. “I am God-inspired and an observer of people,” said Mike, “I learned by watching.”  He lit candles in the church as a youth, joined the church through confirmation, and attended Sunday School and Youth Group.

At age 20, he turned his life over to Christ. In the 80’s and 90’s, his calling began in youth ministry. He went on his first mission trip to Haiti at that time. Since then he has been on other Mission trips because God leads him to minister to people.

He likes the ministry - to bring the Good News of Jesus to people who need hope. Hospitals, nursing homes, funerals, church services and weddings all offer opportunities to Pastor Mike for offering people hope in Jesus Christ. He listens to the stories of people, sharing their pain and agony, joys and concerns because God understands their need to share. Pastor Mike said, “ The thrill of ministry, to me, is putting the hands of others into the hands of Jesus because its all about the relationship between us and Him. 

As a retired pastor at 63, his hobbies include: coaching youth basketball; bicycling; fishing; photography; sailing; enjoying the outdoors; playing the guitar and reading. He also loves spending time with his adult son and daughter and their spouses, and 6 little grandsons.

Pastor Mike reminds us that “The Kingdom of Heaven is here in the embodiment in Christ in His people.” Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit with a sermon straight from the Bible on Sunday, December 11 at 10 AM. Based on Luke 1:39-49, the title is Unexplainable Joy. Community invited!

December 16-19, 2022
 

Our Old Bookcase - Buck Bader
OUR OLD BOOK CASE by Joyce L. Alig, President, Mercer County Historical Society

Photo Caption:   Buck Bader, International Hunter & Traveler, at Bader’s Corner

The last time my husband Alvin and our family visited Buck Bader, was at UCross, Wyoming, in the summer of 1980.  Buck was retired, and he and Alvin sat on Buck’s front porch at his log cabin.  Buck and Alvin talked about past events, and their hunting days in the Western States in the 1960’s.

One story which I remember was that Buck had owned a business on Fayette Street near the Railroad Tracks in Celina.  For some reason, that business “blew up,” and Buck took the Insurance money and built the garage at the intersection of St. Rt. 127 and 219.  This corner was known locally, as “Bader’s Corner.”

In the 1920’s Buck was known for hunting Internationally.  Dr. Gilespie made a knife and sheath for Buck Bader to take along with him on his African Safari, on December 29, 1965.  We have a photograph of Buck and his fellow hunter in  Africa.

Another story which I recall, was that Buck went to Alaska, on a hunting trip.  Those of you understand Alaska’s history, know that when the Yukon River and other Rivers “froze up,” the visitors from the “lower 48 States” were stranded in Alaska until the “Spring Thaw.”  One Winter, there was an early freeze and Buck spent the winter in Alaska.  Back here in Mercer County, Buck’s wife thought that Buck was deceased.  (At that time, not all mail went through in the winter between Alaska and the lower 48.)  Buck’s wife was surprised when he returned home to Mercer County, that next summer.

“The Trapline Jounal” carried an article about Buck Bader in September 1984.  The Journal carried photographs of Buck Bader in the 1920’s.  The photographs featured Buck with a bear he had just shot.  One photograph showed his truck, outlined with Beaver he had killed.  Another photograph showed Buck holding a duck he had brought down.  One photograph highlighted several beaver he had killed and nailed on the back of a shed.

Jim Garry, published a book, “BUCK:  Stories by Lloyd `Buck’ Bader,” collected by Garry, in  1984.  This book is a rare book here in Mercer County.  Local hunters have tried to purchase my copy of Buck’s book!  Of course, I refuse to part with my only copy. I have not checked if the Libraries have a copy of Buck’s book. 

Buck Bader was a classic figure in Mercer County’s History.  Losing his Garage at Buck Bader’s Corner will be a loss to local history in 2023.

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

Isaac Van Wart Daughters of the American Revolution Meet

Mr. Bob Gamble recently shared the history of the George Marsh family with Isaac Van Wart Daughters of the American Revolution. A luncheon was hosted at the home of Nancy Smith. Following the program, officers installed were Regent Deb Hardeman, Vice Regent Pamela Beamer, Secretary Linda Schumm, Treasurer Robin Kill, & Registrar Mickey McConahay.
Pictured are Nancy Smith, Pamela Beamer, Bob Gamble, Deb Hardeman

Scholarship Awarded


Mercer Health Medical Staff awarded its 2022 Mercer Health Medical Staff Scholarship to Madison Rose-Malkamaki, a Coldwater High School graduate currently working toward her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree at Ohio University.

Rose-Malkamaki was selected as the scholarship recipient based on her academic merit and desire to improve health literacy in the community. “I want to be involved in health education. This includes participating in events that aim to improve health literacy in the community,” Rose-Malkamaki said. “It is imperative that we empower the community to be advocates of their own health.”

The Mercer Health Medical Student Scholarship program was initiated in 2020 and awards $2,000 annually to a medical school student who has shown a strong connection to Mercer Health or the surrounding communities. The scholarship is awarded for a one-year period and provided directly to the student.

Mercer Health’s Medical Staff looks forward to giving back to additional medical students as the scholarship program continues. “Across our country and right here in west central Ohio, rural hospitals play an essential and integral role in the healthcare system, providing significant contributions to the well-being of the communities we serve,” Dr. Stefanie Moeller, Mercer Health internal medicine provider, said. “Our goal is to give back to students, especially those who are interested in supporting our rural communities as a physician—and in other ways.”

To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must be a resident of the United States who is currently enrolled as a 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year medical student in an accredited MD/DO school located in the United States. Applicant must either be a resident of Mercer County or one of the adjacent counties for at least 12 months prior to registering as a medical student or have participated in a rotation at Mercer Health. Applications for the 2023 scholarship are now being accepted. Participants must apply online by October 1, 2023 and submit transcript of their medical school courses/grades and a letter, on school letterhead, from the applicant’s medical school verifying that he/she is enrolled full time as a medical student at that institution.

For more information about Mercer Health’s Medical Student Scholarship, visit mercer-health.com/foundation or contact Deb Hemmelgarn, MED Foundation Director, at dhemmelgarn@mercer-health.com or 419-678-5679.

Pictured is Dr. Megan Core, Mercer Health Chief of Staff, presenting Madison Rose-Malkamaki her 2022 Medical Student Scholarship.

 Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

27th Annual Evening for Race Fans with Chase Briscoe & Matt Westfall

The Celina-Mercer County Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Chase Briscoe driver of the Stewart Hass #14 on the NASCAR Cup Series and sprint car veteran Matt Westfall will be the featured guests of the 27th Annual Evening for Race Fans on Saturday, January 28th in St. Henry, Ohio.

Chase Briscoe, a 3rd generation racer whose career began on the dirt tracks in and around his home state of Indiana at the age of 13, followed in his grandfather's and father's footsteps racing sprint cars on the bullrings of the Midwest. His career highlights while working his way to the NASCAR Cup Series include a 2016 ARCA Championship, winning the 2018 NASCAR Truck Series race at Eldora, seven NASCAR Xfinity Series wins. He picked up his first NASCAR Cup win at Phoenix in March 2022, advanced to the “round of eight” in the NASCAR playoffs and finished ninth in the final standings.

Pleasant Hill, Ohio native and fan favorite, Matt Westfall, career accomplishments include: Track championships at Eldora Speedway and two time Boss Series Champion. In 2022, he earned six non-wing sprint car wins, finished 7th in the USAC National Sprint Car Series and 4th in the inaugural season of the Extreme Sprint Car Series. He also recorded two top five finishes in five starts with the USAC Silver Crown Series.

Race Fans will be entertained at this must see event as our guests will spend time on the stage with long time event Emcee and former Radio Voice of the Indy 500, Mike King, as they reflect on their careers, other competitors and the sport of auto racing. The evening includes an opportunity for autographs and a fantastic buffet dinner prepared by the staff at Romer’s Catering.

This event serves as a fundraiser with over $295,000 raised for the Chamber, EverHeart Hospice, and Community Health Professionals Hospice with the past 26 events.

Schedule of events:

Autograph session with Chase Briscoe & Matt Westfall

Buffet dinner

Driver interviews conducted by Mike King

Race memorabilia auction

Tickets must be purchased prior to the event by calling the Celina-Mercer County Chamber of Commerce at (419) 586-2219.  Cost per ticket is $50; Visa & Master Card are accepted. Follow us on Facebook at “Chamber Race Night”.

First United Methodist Church Youth Group Launches Shoe Drive Fundraiser 
to Raise Money for Summer Mission Trip to The Dominican Republic

Van Wert, OH, 2022 – First United Methodist Church Youth Group is conducting a shoe drive fundraiser now until January 7th  to raise funds for their mission trip to the Dominican Republic. The youth group will earn funds based on the total weight of the pairs of gently worn, used and new shoes collected, as Funds2Orgs will issue a check for the collected shoes. Those dollars will help cover the cost of the mission trip. Anyone can help by donating gently worn, used and new shoes at First United Methodist Church at 113 W. Central Avenue, Van Wert.

All donated shoes will then be redistributed throughout the Funds2Orgs network of micro-enterprise (small business) partners. Funds2Orgs works with micro-entrepreneurs in helping them create, maintain and grow small businesses in developing countries where economic opportunity and jobs are limited. Proceeds from the sales of the shoes collected in shoe drive fundraisers are used to feed, clothe and house their families. One budding entrepreneur in Haiti even earned enough to send her son to law school.

"We are excited about our shoe drive," said Teresa Shaffer, Youth Director. "We know that most people have extra shoes in their closets they would like to donate to us. By doing so, we raise money for our mission trips, and we have the chance to help families in developing nations who need economic opportunities. It's a win-win for everyone.”

By donating gently worn, used and new shoes to the Youth Group at First United Methodist Church, the shoes will be given a second chance and make a difference in people’s lives around the world. 

About First United Methodist Church Youth Group

Youth in grades 6th – 12th grade can join the youth group. They meet on Sunday’s from 12-1:30pm until May.  They share a meal, have special events, local mission projects and lessons regularly and anyone is welcome to join.  

Donation Made to Mercer County Law Enforcement
Community Sports and Therapy Center is pleased to announce that $21,000 has been donated to Mercer County Law Enforcement from the sponsored Annual RED, WHITE, AND BLUE Celebration. This donation will be used to construct a shelter building in the Spring of 2023 which will be used for training at the Mercer County gun range.  All law enforcement agencies in Mercer County use the gun range for their year-round, all- weather training.

The annual FREE event open to the public honors members of the local FIRE, EMS, and LAW departments who serve us so selflessly every day. One hundred percent of donated funds from attendees go directly to these departments throughout Mercer County.

SAVE THE DATES: This upcoming year’s 3rd Annual Event will take place on the evenings of July 3rd and 4th, 2023 at Coldwater Memorial Park. The previous RW and B events were one-night events but in 2023 it will be a two-night celebration. July 3rd will feature live performances by Abbamania, the world’s number one production of Abba and Night Fever, who will bring the stage presence and harmonies of the Bee Gees. On the evening of July 4th, the Material Girls, featuring tributes to Shania, Annie Lennox, Lady Gaga, Adele, Madonna, Blondie & Cher will be performing. In addition to the live music, there will be food stands, kid activities, a beer tent, and more.  Additional details will be announced.

Our Old Bookcase - Wabash School, 1912
OUR OLD BOOK CASE by Joyce L. Alig, President, Mercer County Historical Society
(Picture is not available)

Cynthia Andrade, Vandalia, Ohio, sent a photo to me.  Her neighbor had passed away, several months ago.  The neighbor had collected old photographs at garage sales and antique stores.  The photo of Wabash School, in Mercer County, was among those photographs.  Cynthia sent the photograph to me, suggesting that I might know someone who would be interested in this school.

Christmas is a time for memories.  The sad side of this is that so many of the people who had memories of the Wabash School may no longer be aware of it. 

The 1882 History of Van Wert and Mercer Counties, Ohio, on page 435, gave a short reference to Wabash.  “Wabash City contains 180 lots.  Lot 27 is reserved for a school house.”  Apparently, no school house building had yet been built on that lot in 1882.

I looked in the 1907 “Mercer County History Book,” where there was a reference to the Village of Wabash, which “had a school house.”  This statement would suggest that sometime between 1882 and 1907, a school house had been constructed between 1882 and 1907. 

The 1978 “Mercer County History Book,” identifies a school house in Section four of Mercer County, which is the Village of Wabash. 

Christmas time may be more about lost memories for citizens of today.  Do any citizens of Wabash today, or in the past, have knowledge of the school at Wabash? 

Is this 1912 photograph of the Wabash School, the last memory of Wabash School?  Or, do you readers have information about the Wabash School?  If so, please share those memories with the Mercer County Historical Society, so that we can contribute to the History of Wabash, in Washington Township, Mercer County, Ohio?

In 1976-1977, after our Nation had celebrated our Bicentennial, the Mercer County Commissioners asked me to edit a “1978 Mercer County History Book.”  I was elected President of the Mercer County Historical Society in 1973.  Therefore, this year, 2022, I am completing 50 years of service as President of the Mercer County Historical Society and to preserving Mercer County’s History.  As I look back over these 50 years, I wonder what would have happened if I had not edited the “1978 Mercer County History Book.”  On March 2, 2004, the Mercer County Commissioners, in their Resolution # 04-222, cut off all funds to the Mercer County  Historical Society and ceased my OPERS appointed position Director of the Mercer County Historical Museum.  Thus, I have served as a volunteer since that date.  I wonder if the funds to the  Mercer County Commissioners’ Office had been cut off in 2004, would they have continued their service, free of charge since March 2, 2004? 

The Mercer County Commissioner Rick Muhlenkamp attended the Annual Meeting & Christmas party of the Mercer County Historical Society, on Monday December 5, 2022.  That is the first time that a Mercer County Commissioner has attended any of the Historical Society’s Meetings for a couple of decades!  Maybe a new wind is blowing for the Mercer County owned building, the Mercer County Historical Museum?  I hope so.

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

Snow – do not plow onto roadways

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

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

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

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

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

Our Old Bookcase - Happy Corner Church
OUR OLD BOOK CASE by Joyce L. Alig, President, Mercer County Historical Society

Photo Caption:   Happy Corner Church, a part of lost history

Happy Corner Church, State Route 29, west of Celina, is one of the lost churches in our country side. 

With the Christmas Holiday Season here, local church members are planning for their Christmas events. 

So many rural churches are closing their doors.  As I drive the country roads and I see the empty church buildings, I have a sense of loss to our rural way of life.  There will be no Christmas programs in these small churches which are closed.

What has changed to cause these changes in our rural way of life? 

Perhaps, small farms have become a part of larger farms, and fewer farmers live in the country?  Perhaps, rural citizens taking a horse and buggy to church, changed with the arrival of automobiles and citizens driving to churches in Villages?  

Has there been a change that church attendance is no longer an active part of the way of life of some families?  At one time, churches were a part of the social lives of local citizens.  Have movies and/or television provided local entertainment?  Most homes have television sets, which provide information about entertainment in larger cities? 

Have automobiles provided access to entertainment in larger cities?  At one time, when the young men were dating the young women, they were dating within a one or two mile distance from their homes.  Not many young men were going to drive a horse and buggy twenty miles to date a young lady, and then drive twenty miles back home after the date, especially in the winter time.  Automobiles offered the young men the opportunity to drive farther and meet the young women.  That opportunity also provided the privacy to the young people that their parents did not always control the ones they were dating.

This past Century has brought changes to our lives, which were not a part the prior comprehension of so many citizens.  May I ask you readers to write me and share with me the changes which have taken place in your lives this past Century?  What changes do you anticipate in this Century?

When you write to me, be sure to include your age, so we can compare thoughts of various generations today. 

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

Lima Symphony Orchestra “Symphony Storytime” Returns

Lima, OH (December 2, 2022) – The Lima Symphony Orchestra’s popular Symphony Storytime program returns to libraries this winter beginning in December! Featuring performances by musicians from the Lima Symphony Orchestra, this program focuses on the wonder of winter!

Details:

Tuesday, December 13 at 6PM - Putnam County District Library (136 Putnam Pkwy, Ottawa, OH 45875)

Thursday, December 22 at 11AM - Mary Lou Johnson Hardin County District Library (325 E Columbus St, Kenton, OH 43326)

Saturday, January 14 at 11AM - Saint Mary's Community Public Library (140 S Chestnut St, St Marys, OH 45885)

Tuesday, January 17 at 10:30AM - Auglaize County Public District Library (203 Perry St, Wapakoneta, OH 45895)

Monday, February 13 at 6PM - Stallo Memorial Library (196 E 4th St, Minster, OH 45865)

For this innovative program, children and their families will enjoy classic selections in celebration of winter and snow! This program features the classic Ukrainian folk tale The Mitten as told by Jan Brett, the award-winning Ezra Jack Keats classic The Snowy Day, and The Gruffalo’s Child by Julia Donaldson, all accompanied by live music from Lima Symphony Orchestra musicians. The program will engage kids’ imaginations and get them singing along as visions of sugarplums dance in their heads! With a focus on creative movement and music literacy, "Symphony Storytime" is designed to spark children’s imaginations and foster a lifelong appreciation for music. This program is appropriate for all ages and is free and open to the public.

Books:

The Mitten by Jan Brett (1989)

The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (1962)

The Gruffalo’s Child by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler (2004)

Music Selections:

Winter from “The Four Seasons” by Antonio Vivaldi

Troika from “Lieutenant Kije” by Sergei Prokofiev

Romance from “Lieutentant Kije” by Sergei Prokofiev

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

Symphony Storytime Sponsors:

AC Dienstberger Foundation

G.A. Wintzer & Son Co.

State Bank

Thermal Gard Window and Door

Van Wert County Foundation

Kenton Rotary Foundation

###

If you would like more information about Symphony Storytime programs, please call the Lima Symphony at 419-222-5701 or check our website for more details at www.limasymphony.com.

Vantage looking for Alumni Hall of Fame Nominees
Vantage Career Center is currently opening the nominations for the Class of 2023 Vantage Alumni Hall of Fame. This is a great time to highlight a Vantage Alumni from your community that brings achievement and honor to their career field, communities and Vantage. We ask that you take this time to share a Vantage Alumni that sticks out to you today by simply going to the form in this link and filling out the necessary information.  https://forms.gle/oMRfeSnLWhAoYubH6

Last year, Candy Lammers (1994) and Bryon Wells (1999), both graduates of Van Wert City Schools, were nominated and inducted into the Alumni Hall of Fame. Here is more information regarding the Hall of Fame and we welcome you to share your nominations to possibly be inducted into our Alumni Hall of Fame, Class of 2023!

The purpose of the Alumni Hall of Fame is to recognize graduates who have, through their performance and achievement, brought credit and honor to themselves and to Vantage Career Center after their graduation. Their exemplary public, personal, and career achievements will serve to inspire and provide leadership to future graduates to achieve and serve in the same distinguished manner.

Criteria for Selection and Eligibility: Honorees must be a graduate of Vantage Career Center. A period of ten (10) years must have elapsed between graduation and eligibility for induction into the Hall of Fame. Honorees should represent a broad range of talents, achievements, and/or community service. Nominees will be considered based on professional careers and community involvement. A person may be nominated more than once, and a person may be nominated and inducted posthumously. A candidate is nominated by an individual choosing to complete this form. The Hall of Fame Committee will conduct a preliminary screening of candidates. Qualifying candidates will then be requested to complete a questionnaire. All nominations should be returned by January 6, 2023 at 11:59p.m. to: Stacie Peters, Vantage Career Center, 818 N. Franklin St., Van Wert OH 45891.  Please be advised that all nominees are eligible for 4 years of consideration.

Rockford Village Council Meets on December 6, 2022
Click here for minutes by Fiscal Agent Lisa Kuhn
and Community Announcements and events:

December 7th -    Christmas/ Santa visit at Shanes Park – 6:30 – 8 pm

December 14th – Christmas/ Santa visit at Shanes Park = 6:30 – 8 pm

December 17th - RADC candy cane distribution at the 4 way stop

December 23 – 26th – Village Office closed for Christmas

December 25th -  Together at Christmas – Free Christmas meal @ the Rockford Community Building – 10:30 am – 1pm.  Sponsored by local churches working together to celebrate Christ’s birth.

January 2nd – Village office closed for New Year’s Day.

January 16th – Village office closed -     Martin Luther King Jr. Day

December 13-15, 2022
 

Together on Christmas is Back!

TOGETHER ON CHRISTMAS, a free dinner on Christmas Day, returns December 25th, 2022 to the Rockford Community Building.  Begun in 2005 as a ministry outreach of the Rockford United Methodist Church, the first FREE Christmas Day Dinner was intended to serve hungry and lonely people who might not have a traditional Christmas Day dinner nor family with whom to share it. 

The return of TOGETHER ON CHRISTMAS in 2021 following the COVID pandemic became a community event led by members and friends of the Rockford United Methodist, Rockford Belle Community, and New Horizons Community churches; under the pastoral leadership of ‘Chip’ Steffy, Dana Smith and Ken Meyer.

TOGETHER ON CHRISTMAS offers a FREE Christmas dinner to residents of Rockford and the surrounding area. The Rockford Community Building is located at 402 Holly Lane near Shanes Park.   The 2022 Dinner will be served from 10:30 - 1 pm. The 2022 menu includes chicken breast (prepared by the Rockford Carryout), baked pork chop, mashed potatoes & gravy, homemade dressing (stuffing), green beans, rolls/butter, and a variety of desserts.  

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

Blue Christmas Service at St. Paul’s
for Those Who Mourn or Are Sad

St. Paul’s Country Church invites you to the Blue Christmas Service on the evening of the Winter Solstice – the longest and darkest night of the year, Wednesday, December 21, 2022. The candlelight service will begin at 6:30 PM.

The traditional Blue Christmas Service is celebrated in many churches and supports those who are not so cheerful during the Christmas Holidays.

All are welcome, especially those struggling to find joy in the holidays. Reasons for feeling blue can be: a death; dealing with divorce or separation; job loss; coping with cancer or other illness; or other life situations that make you sad and unable to celebrate the joys of Christmas, please join St. Paul’s for an evening of prayerful attention to your needs. The service will create a sacred and accepting

place to reflect on God and the story of the birth of His Son, Jesus, on Christmas, as well as the joy of Jesus’ resurrection. Pastor Mike Husted will lead this service, which is open to the community, and all people, grieving or not.

Pastor Michael Husted at St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, December 18, 2022. Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit with a sermon straight from the Bible as we continue into the Advent Season. Based on John 3:16-17, the title is “True Love: From Ordinary to Extraordinary”.

Sunday school is now beginning at 9:15 AM. Children’s Junior Church is now every Sunday except the last Sunday of the month. Bible based lessons and children’s activities taught. Snacks.

Please call the church office for Pastor Mike at 419-942-1374 for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome.

Stabbing in Celina
On Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 2022 at about 6:37PM Celina P.D. responded of a report of a stabbing at 537 Touvelle St., Lot 28 Celina.  Through the investigation officers found at 24 year old Celina resident, Alex Rodriguez had been visiting his girlfriend, 24 year old Jena Marie Curry at her residence.  The pair had been dating for about a week.  An altercation occurred between the two and Rodriguez received a single, significant size, stab wound in his back near the right shoulder.  Details of the incident remain under investigation.

Alex Rodriguez was taken by a private vehicle to a local hospital and then to a trauma center for surgery.  The injury is not thought to be life threatening.  Jena Marie Curry is being held at the Mercer County Jail on a charge of Felonious Assault, a second degree felony.  Bond has not been set.

Mercer County Prosecutor, Erin Minor will be reviewing the case to present to the next Grand Jury.  No further details can be released at this time.

by Chief Tom Wale

Celina Police Department.    

December 8-12, 2022
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 18 years!
The Parkway Independent is 18 years old!
 

Santa Claus to Visit Children in Shanes Park 6:30 to 8 PM
on Wednesday, December 7th and 14th.

Village of Rockford Office is selling annual dog tags for Mercer County - $20 per tag.
Selling now through January 31, 2023

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

December 7, 2022
 

Santa Claus to Visit Children in Shanes Park 6:30 to 8 PM
on Wednesday, December 7th and 14th.

Parkway Schools are now closed
for Wednesday, December 7, 2022

Parkway Schools are now on a 3 hour delay
for Wednesday, December 7, 2022
due to dense fog in the area.
 

Parkway Schools are on a
2 hour delay
for Wednesday, December 7, 2022
Dense Fog. 

December 6, 2022
Serving the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Communities for 18 years!
 

Parkway Schools are now on a 3 hour delay
for Tuesday, December 6, 2022
due to dense fog in the area.
 

Parkway Schools are on a
2 hour delay
for Tuesday, December 6, 2022
Fog. 

November 29 - December 5, 2022
 

Pastor Michael Husted at St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, December 4, 2022. The new Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit with a sermon straight from the Bible as we continue into the Advent Season. Based on Isaiah 9:6-7A, the title is Peace Be With You.

Sunday school is now beginning at 9:15 AM. Children’s Junior Church is now every Sunday except the last Sunday of the month. Bible based lessons and children’s activities taught. Snacks.

Please call the church office for Pastor Mike at 419-942-1374 for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome.

BOARDWALK VILLAGE ANNOUNCES LUXURY LAKESIDE LIVING EXPANSION

(November 21, 2022) Boardwalk Village, located on West Bank Road in Celina, OH, has announced plans to expand and offer Luxury Lakeside Living within the limits of their newly constructed rental village. The new lakeside cottage homes will break ground and be available for purchase as early as Spring 2023. This expansion project will include a mixture of both small and large coastal cottages.

Boardwalk Village is a walking and biking paradise that offers both homeowners and vacationers a community that is convenient, unique, and connected. Those who make their stay permanent at Boardwalk Village will experience all the desired amenities of the current rental cottages, the convenience of maintenance, and so much more.

This upscale investment will offer homeowners a unique lakeside living experience – from the exquisite architecture to the countless amenities. Those who decide to make Boardwalk Village a place for their everyday living can expect to experience:

Low-maintenance living.

Lawn care, snow removal and exterior care.

Lakeside views – right from their own front porch.

Outdoor heated pool (indoor/outdoor pool coming in 2024!)

Community grills + boat dock rentals.

Attached garage on select units.

Easy access to marketplace shops (boat, kayak and golf cart rentals).

Easy, convenient travel along US 127.

.6 miles from Rush Sports Complex/Part-Tee Golf Lounge & Bar

Next door neighbor to Boardwalk Grill - featuring a scratch kitchen, fresh drinks and live music + events.

Walkable distance to downtown + a variety of shops, local restaurants, and walking paths.

Those who are interested in owning a cottage at Boardwalk Village can join the leadership & hospitality team at Boardwalk Village on January 12th from 5PM-8PM for more information on plans, pricing and selling of the cottages.

The Boardwalk Village Sales Event will take place at Boardwalk Grill, located right next door to the village. Hors d’oeuvres will be provided along with live music, drinks and a presentation about the beautiful lakeside homes coming in Spring 2023. Spots for the event are limited. To reserve your seat at the event, contact info@boardwalkvillage.com.

November 22-28, 2022
Happy Thanksgiving
 

Pastor Michael Husted at St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, November 27, 2022. The new Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit with a sermon straight from the Bible. Based on John 1:1-5, the title is There is Hope in the Light. Communion will be served to celebrate the beginning of Advent.

Sunday school is at 9:30 AM. Children’s Church is on the 1^st, 3^rd and 5^th Sundays. Bible based lessons and children’s activities taught. Snacks.

Please call the church office 419-942-1374 for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome  

Parkway High School 1st Quarter Honor Roll 

By Lisa Miller, HS Secretary

SENIORS

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Abby Baltzell, Colby Bentz, Aaron Cron, Gavin Dicke, Trenton Garwood, Madison Gile, Carter Hellwarth, Allison Hughes, Madison Jacobs, Macy Johnson, Emiree Knittle, Jackson Kraner, Corban Rich, Hutch Ridenour, Alison Rowen, Emily Schaefer, Nevaeh Seals, Emree Sinning, Derek Smith, Brooke Stephenson, Gabrielle Stober

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Aaliyah Baxter, Desiree Hague, Caden Heindel, Allison Heitkamp, Adrienne Joseph, Roman Leszinske, Edin Nichols, Alivia Osborne, Deegan Rager, Jocie Waters

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Alyxandra Yoder

JUNIORS

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Alexis Berry, Breanna Berry, Morgan Bollenbacher, Logan Green, Harli Grunden, Meg Henkle, Ashley Jackson, Addysin Leighner, Madison Louth, Audrey Nichols, Trent Rollins, Tyler Rowen, Francesca Steinbrunner, Woodrow Tinkham, Jacob Winget 

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Ben Bates, Ruby Bennett, Samara McDonald, Ellie Prichard, Abigail Sheets, Julia Sheets, Sarah Sheppard, Fletcher Smith, Paige Stephenson, Apollo Thomas, Avery White, Paige Williamson

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Devon Crouch, Caleb Nusbaum, Justin Parsons, Nathan Perry, Kathryn Trisel

SOPHOMORES

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Amanda Barrett, Cali Bollenbacher, Shay Boroff, Brayden Bruns, Adria Miller, Alexavier Samples, Cora Schumm

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Braedn Conn, Noah Connolly, Gabriel Cross, Gaven Garwood, Zoey Henning, Evan Kimmel, Scarlett Laux, Ashton Minnich, Elias Poe, Grace Pontsler, Wyatt Seals, Helana Sinning

Honors: (3.625-3.Zachary Rog25)

Riley Bolton, Matthias Byer, Emerson Esselstein, Jersie Evans, Ethan Fireoved, Zachery Glosser, Abby Hague, Brynlea Houser, Mackenzie Kellermeyer, Creeden Knittle, Kailyn Regedanz, Matthew Roberts, Zachary Rogers, Abbygale Schaffer, Andrew Taylor, Isabella Thornsberry, Derik Vann, Elizabeth Winget

FRESHMEN

Highest Honors: (4.0 and above) 

Carlee Barna, Brittyn Bruns, Lola Dailey, Payton Frese, Trevor Heitkamp, Natalie Moeller, Taylor Muhlenkamp, Milee Peel, Haley Perry, Ethan Pond, Ella Putman, Nathaniel Stolly, Emmery Temple, Kyndra Thornsberry, Christina Tong

High Honors: (3.99 - 3.626)

Meagan Boroff, Hayden Castleman, Olivia Clifford, Miley Crouch, Kaleb Gilliland, Parker Johnson, Carson Kirby, Rylan Lyons, Taylor Minnich, Madison Mosier, Josiah Neff, Megan Nichols, Ava Pond, Addison Reigle, Zavier Rissner, Jordyn Schaefer, Gabryelle Sill, Analicia Velez, Lucian Winters, John Yoder, Kendra Zimmerman

Honors: (3.625-3.25)

Lennox Boroff, Graydon Bragg, Dakota Eller, Addison Fisher, Logan Fullenkamp, Grace Kiser, Parker Lyons, Russell McDonald, Maddie Miehls, Troy Miller, Ashtlynn Muhlenkamp, Bryn Schoenleben, Eli Schumm, Colbie Smith, Alexander Strickland, Gabriel Welling

Honor Flight Northeast Indiana To Organize All Purple Heart Honor Flight

Honor Flight Northeast Indiana (HFNEI) will add a 5th flight in 2023 celebrating veterans who have received a Purple Heart medal. Recently selected as the 75th annual Penny Pitch recipient by WOWO radio, HFNEI proudly announced that the proceeds of this fundraiser will be dedicated to a flight in appreciation of this distinguished group of veterans.

Veterans who received the Purple Heart were wounded during their military service and for some, multiple times over. These veterans went above and beyond to defend and protect our country and our freedoms.

Honor Flight Northeast Indiana President Cathy Berkshire states, “We have 4 traditional Honor Flights planned for 2023; 2 in the spring and 2 in the fall for veterans on our ever growing waiting list. This special funding, separate from our normal gifts and donations, will allow us to add this extra 5th flight for our Purple Heart veterans. This flight will not displace any deserving veterans currently on the waiting list nor use donations designated for regular trips. We are thankful to WOWO for selecting Honor Flight as their Penny Pitch recipient for 2023, and the generosity of their audience, allowing us to honor these extraordinary heroes!”

If you are a Purple Heart recipient veteran, have not previously flown on an Honor Flight and have not signed up – regardless of when you served, visit this website, www.hfnei.org and apply today. In the notes of the application, identify you are a Purple Heart recipient and HFNEI will make contact for verification and add you to the list for the special flight. Honor Flight NEI will be taking the first 85 Purple Heart veterans that apply. If you are a veteran already on the waiting list and you are a Purple Heart recipient, please send an email to: purpleheart@hfnei.org and they will update your application and add you to the list.

“The Honor Flight Network is enthusiastic to support this first-of-its-kind all Purple Heart veteran Honor Flight trip by Honor Flight Northeast Indiana,” said Meredith Rosenbeck, Honor Flight Network CEO. “I share in the excitement of the Honor Flight Northeast Indiana team as they begin the planning process to provide these Purple Heart veterans with a unique opportunity to share their stories with other Purple Heart veterans.”

For more information about Honor Flight Northeast Indiana, their mission and flight information, visit www.hfnei.org.

Parkway December 2022 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

November 15-21, 2022
 

Marine Veteran Jerry Schaadt Takes Historic Trip on Honor Flight to Washington DC

The church members of St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford  heard a wonderful presentation on Sunday, November 13, 2022 by Jerry Schaadt, Vietnam Veteran, who in September 14, 2022, was able to go on the Honor Flight Northeast Indiana to Washington DC. He was accompanied by his daughter, Cari (Schaadt) Rolsten. Cari served as his guardian for the day and visited all sites with him. Jerry was able to visit these war monuments: Korean War; World War II and the Vietnam War Wall.  The Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial were other treasured stops on the trip. Jerry carried with him the casket USA flag of his friend, the late Veteran Dennis Laffin, where it was dedicated at the Vietnam Wall. Laffin's grandson, who lives in DC, was able to participate at the dedication ceremony.

Jerry met up with a fellow Marine, Tim Conway, that he had not seen in 50 years since they served together in Vietnam from 1967-1968. Jerry enlisted in the Marines as a teenager. Jerry and Tim had time to reminisce.

Jerry had been waiting 6 years to go on this trip. The COVID shutdown caused many delays for a trip that is usually backed-up with Veterans on waiting lists. Jerry and Cari had to be at the Ft. Wayne International Airport (formerly called Baer Field) at 5 AM at the Military Depot on site. There they met each other, got their last directions and had breakfast before being transported to the gate by bus. All veterans were so grateful to a local woman who donated $160K to pay for the day and Honor Flight #38 for everyone. She traveled along on the flight as well. Jerry said that the weather was perfect and the food was very good all day.

Arlington Cemetery and the Changing of the Guard impressed him the most. When they visited the Pentagon, they got to see where the 9-11 attack happened. He noticed the replacement blocks in the wall were a little off in color from the original. Jerry also said at the Vietnam Wall walkway, he noticed the athletic jackets and “colors” of the Lincolnview Lancers from the nearby Van Wert County school. He approached a teacher and identified himself and Cari. The students were so excited and thanked all of the Veterans in Jerry’s group. It was then that a member of St. Paul’s Church, Paula Alt, who was traveling with the Lincolnview group, made herself known to Jerry and Cari. They have known each other for years. 

Above picture: Jerry Schaadt and daughter, Cari (Schaadt) Rolsten at the Vietnam War Wall. Cari said she was so honored to be chosen to accompany her dad on the Honor Flight. She is wearing pins made from the pictures they had of him in Vietnam. Her memory from her dad was him telling her that HIS dad, Ep Schaadt, always sent him an envelope of Koolaid in a letter to him when he was in Vietnam. He had no sugar, but the Koolaid flavor in his water was such a treat!

Above Picture: Right Jerry Schaadt and Tim Conway, soldiers and friends in Vietnam.
Below picture: Jerry with the late Dennis Laffin's casket flag.

A tired Veterans group traveled back to the Dulles Airport in DC by bus after a long day of sightseeing and Veteran recognition. Their flight got delayed, and plans for a party organized by Cheri, Jerry’s wife, got derailed, but they still celebrated. Just later that evening.

On the plane flight home, all the veterans received one last mail call from family and friends. He was very moved by the letters he received.

Click on smaller thumbnail pictures to enlarge them below:

More pictures available here by NEHonorFlightIN: https://honorflightnein38.shutterfly.com/pictures
 

St. Paul's Country Church of Rockford celebrated Veterans Day (on November 13, 2022) with recognition of their member Veterans Left to right: Jerry Schaadt, Marvin Schaadt, Gus Bollenbacher, Jerry Bollenbacher, John Ousley and Gary Deitsch. Not shown is Pastor Mike Husted and Duane Linn.

New Pastor Michael Husted Coming to St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, November 20, 2022. The new Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit with a sermon straight from the Bible. His title is “Thanksliving: Living a Thankful Life” and is based on I Thessalonians 5:16-18.

Sunday school is at 9:30 AM. Children’s Church is on the 1^st, 3^rd and 5^th Sundays. Bible based lessons and children’s activities taught. Snacks.

Please call the church office 419-942-1374 and ask for Pastor Mike for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome.  

Parkway Middle School
First Quarter Honor Roll 22-23

By Kristi Dodds, Secretary

5th Grade:        

Highest Honor Roll

Menchhofer, Bailee

High Honor Roll

Baker, Chloe 

Bransteter, Hunter  

Burtch, Althea  

England, Jackson  

Gibbons, Lydia  

Harvey, Annabelle 

Hays, Meadow 

Houser, Frank 

Keeran, Emily  

Knapke, Ryder  

Molloy, Adelaide  

Norris, Kenlee 

Pond, Jenna  

Shaffer, Gibson 

Shirk, Elijah 

Sipe, Sophie  

Snell, Paige 

Tickle, Savannah 

Trent, Cameo  

Vannette, Waylon  

Wannemacher, Avah  

Young, Briar 

Honor Roll

Art, Autumn  

Bransteter, Kallee  

Clay, Hudsen  

England, Madilyn  

Flory, Caile  

Gage, Kolten 

Gruss, Kinlee  

Heiser, Landyn  

Krugh, Evan  

Long, Ainsley  

Long, Braylin  

Moorman, Holly  

Selhorst, Liam  

Shellabarger, Elliot 

Sill, Oliver 

Snell, Claire 

Springer, Olimar  

Suman, Reagan  

Taylor, Dexter 

Twigg, Hayden  

Whitaker, Cooper

_____________________________________

6th Grade:

Highest Honor Roll

Brehm, Kallie 

Cottman, Lydia  

Knapke, Isabelle 

Korte, Bosten 

Korte, Cohen 

Stover, Jaxson 

Tong, Carson 

Triplett, Savada

High Honor Roll

Burnett, Halen  

Burtch, Brooklyn  

Ford, Kayliann  

Hays, Ella 

Imwalle, Allison 

McDorman, Sierra 

Severt, Steven 

Sipe, Abigail  

Stover, Hadley 

Winget, Gabriel (Gabe)

Yoder, Greer 

Honor Roll

Baker, Jacklyn (Jackie)  

Baucher, Alivia 

Bradley, Branson  

Carpenter, Sage 

Eller, Kade 

Hileman, Maxton 

Jacobs, Aubrey 

Louth, Chase 

Luginbill, Rogan 

Miller, Alicia 

Nichols, Lindsay 

Piper, Michael 

Sinning, Stella 

Uncapher, Baylee 

____________________________

7th Grade:

Highest Honor Roll

Eichler, Lydia 

Menchhofer, Isaac

Moeller, Elayna 

Noll, Andee 

Peel, Jaymin  

Ross, Jackson (Jack)  

Schwieterman, Perry  

Stover, KJae 

Williamson, Abigail

High Honor Roll

Anderson, Trey 

Bransteter, Case  

Christian, Kayden 

Clay, Makynlie 

Fox, Levon 

Garrity, Sterling  

Hague, Jordan 

Harner, Ellie 

Heitkamp, Nicole 

Hess, Kymberly  

Ketchum, Colin  

Kraner, Addilynn  

Lyons, Branson  

Mathewson, Mason  

Minnich, Trevor 

Muhlenkamp, Peyton 

Painter, Bryson  

Pennell, Piper 

Poe, Caleb  

Rasbach, Chayse 

Roth, Albany 

Schmidt, Amelia  

Schumm, Drayden  

Stauffer, Carson 

Stolly, Ethan 

Suzuki, Cohen 

Tangeman, Cooper  

Thomas, Cade 

Trisel, William (Will)  

Twigg, Tyson 

VanTrees, Emma  

Williams, Obadiah 

Yaney, Addyson (Addy)

Honor Roll

Bollenbacher, Jaxson  

Buogo, Maria  

Byer, Uriah 

Correll, Carlee  

Dorsten, Naomi  

England, Carter  

Fetters, Malachi 

Fisher, Lexus  

Foss, Jadon 

Glosser, Lacey  

Henning, Sophia  

Keller, Cael 

Knapke, Rowen  

Leighner, Justin  

Muhlenkamp, Ella  

Murphy, Marley  

Nuttle, Dylan 

Ravine, Payton 

Reigle, Nathan 

Sheets, Aaron  

Strickland, Natalie  

Tarilang, Dora  

Vannette, Stella  

Whitaker, Magnus  

Young, Lillian 

__________________________________

8th Grade:

Highest Honor Roll

Fullenkamp, Kara  

Hays, Lillian  

Hughes, Megan 

Pancake, Wyatt  

Quickstad, Jaymie  

Stover, Madelyn

High Honor Roll

Ackley, Mason  

Arnold, Kelsie 

Bailey, Zavior 

Blount, Freya  

Bollenbacher, Dylan  

Booher, Luke  

Buckner, Sasha 

Carpenter, Rhen  

Denney, Bethany  

Eguia, Piper 

Everett, Aisley  

Haines, Oliver  

Kellermeyer, Kelsie  

Kiser, Faith 

Knapke, Austin  

Langenkamp, Cami  

Louth, Morgan 

Matter, Kyra  

Pennell, Peyton  

Reigle, Brody  

Rich, Magdalene  

Ridenour, Gwyneth  

Rogers, Adalynn  

Sheets, Luke 

Shirk, Robert  

Sites, Lexie 

Thomas, Jensen  

Tickle, Samuel 

Triplett, Jacoby 

Wenning, Jaden  

Westgerdes, Gavin 

Williams, Arwen  

Winget, Grace  

Winters, Tobin  

Young, Isabell  

Younker, Kylie

Honor Roll

Anderson, Kate 

Bentz, Morgan  

Brister, Gage 

Hernandez, Marianna 

Lange, Jayda  

Litteral, Kohen 

Miller, Mackenzie  

Nusbaum, Taylor  

Rutledge, Tyler 

Taylor, Deagan 

Rockford Village Council Meets on November 15, 2022
Click here for minutes by Fiscal Agent Lisa Kuhn
and Community Announcements and events:

November 8-14, 2022
 

Grandparents Celebrate Eagle Scout Taylor Dietsch

Taylor Dietsch, 18 years old, of Edgerton, OH Troop 29, Boy Scouts of America recently completed his chosen and approved project to become an Eagle Scout.

His project was making and donating benches for the local cemetery.

Taylor has been active in Scouts since first grade. In 2016, as an 11 year old Webelo, he won the Pinewood Derby World Championship, held in New York City – Times Square. Taylor beat out racers in 40 states to win the title.

Attending the Eagle Scout ceremony were his parents, Jennifer (Taylor) and Jason Dietsch from Edgerton as well as Grandma and Grandpa Dave and Kathy (Bollenbacher) Taylor of Rockford.

Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory Announces Updates and Open House 11-20-2022

The ownership of Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory is pleased to announce the completion of multiple upgrades and renovations to its Van Wert Ohio Location.

The ownership of Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory had identified the need for more meeting space and updated amenities to best meet the memorial and funeral needs of the community it serves. The addition of a new kitchenette and community space for family use will enable guests to host meals at the funeral home with catering options available. This addition will make it easier for families who are looking to honor loved ones after the ceremony has been completed and has a capacity of nearly 100 people. Other upgrades include a private hospitality space, modern amenities, new paint, furniture, and décor as well as updated lighting throughout the facility.

 
“Adding these new amenities will help reduce the stress and coordination on grieving families by allowing them to celebrate their loved one in one space,” states Andrew Gearhart. “These new rooms and services, alongside the modernization of our space will help bring comfort to those grieving by reducing the amount of coordination and event planning during an already difficult time.”

The funeral home will also open its doors to the public Sunday, November 20th from 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm, to see upgrades firsthand. The public is invited to tour the renovated facility and learn more about the services available.

Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory have served the community’s pre-arrangement, funeral service, memorial service, burial, and cremation needs for over five generations, providing comfort and care since 1903. 

Click on smaller thumbnail pictures to enlarge them.

HAPPY VETERANS DAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2022

ELECTION DAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2022

Dr. Craig Hanson Joins Medical Staff at Van Wert Health

Van Wert, OH – Van Wert Health is pleased to welcome urogynecologist and obstetrician and gynecologist (OB/GYN), Craig Hanson, MD, FACOG, FPMRS, to the team of medical staff at Van Wert Health. Dr. Hanson is a fellowship-trained surgical gynecologist experienced in performing minimally invasive robotic and laparoscopic surgeries for women, including reconstructive surgery. He also provides comprehensive gynecological care for women at all stages of life, from puberty to after menopause.

Dr. Hanson is Board Certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology in both OB/GYN and urogynecology. He earned his medical degree from Michigan State University, College of Human Medicine and completed his residency training at Providence Hospital in Southfield, Michigan.

“We’re happy to welcome Dr. Hanson back to Van Wert Health,” said Paula Stabler, Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Operating Officer at Van Wert Health. “Our patients have long appreciated the personalized, quality care they receive from Van Wert Health, and we know that Dr. Hanson will continue this tradition.”

Dr. Hanson joins Alberto Delgado, MD, and Shane Gerber, CNP, at the Van Wert Health Center, located at 140 Fox Road, Suite 102, Van Wert, Ohio (formerly known as the Medical Arts Building).

Dr. Hanson will also see patients in Paulding, Ohio and Decatur, Indiana.

To schedule an appointment or learn more, visit vanwerthealth.org or call 419-238-3047.

Retired Public Employees to Meet

Mercer County PERI Chapter #13 reminds members that due to Election Day on Tuesday, November 8th the November meeting will be held on the third Tuesday, November 15th.  The meeting at the Hopewell Grange Hall will begin at 10:00 AM with coffee, juice & doughnuts available beginning at 9:30 AM.  The speaker for this meeting has not yet been confirmed.

 Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

Congratulations to Rockford’s Citizen of the Year -  Karla (Sidenbender) Butler 

Congratulations to Karla Butler for being chosen as the Rockford Chamber of Commerce 2022 - Citizen of the Year.
  
Karla is a lifelong resident of the Rockford area. She has been involved in different organizations within our community as well as Mercer and Van Wert counties. Throughout the years Karla has graciously used her time and talents to serve and has made a positive difference where needed.

Shortly after college, she volunteered for the Parkway Athletic Boosters Club, and spent many years keeping the books and raising money for projects.

As a member of Rockford United Methodist Church, in 2008, she went on a mission trip to Henderson Settlement in KY. Working in their thrift store, she saw a need for something similar in Rockford. When she returned, she talked to the Rockford United Methodist Members who gave of their time to prepare the space needed to hold a store (which became known as Helping Hands April 2009) that would be open to the public. Dave Salway found space in his cabinet shop to run it. Donations of clothing and furniture rolled in.  Karla ran the store every Wednesday and Saturday, and it was an instant hit. Helping Hands has moved locations a couple of times.  The most recent location is in the old Lloyd Garage building. The Parkway Ministerial Food Pantry was added to Helping Hands during this last move and is open once a month.

Over the years, Karla has made many, many friends through this project. She thanks the people who donate and those she serves for this honor.
  
On Saturday - October 29, 2022 - the Chamber of Commerce recognized Karla as the lead person in the Helping Hands Thrift Store and Parkway Ministerial Food Pantry. Her dedication to these programs has been instrumental in their success. She is a prime example of someone who 'lives generously' serving others.
  
The community is so thankful for Karla!

 

Above - Last year's winner, Reed Shaffer presents Karla with the award.

Above - Karla's Family celebrates with her following the announcement.

Above - Mercer County Commissioner, Rick Muhlenkamp, presents Karla with a Proclamation.

One of the greatest gifts –the giving of your time --- Thank you Karla for all you do through Helping Hands Thrift store and Parkway Food Pantry. 

The Agriculture Education Foundation Offers Scholarships for Future Agri-Science Educators
The Foundation Is Accepting Applications for Five $1000 Scholarships

(Columbus, Ohio)  The Agriculture Education Foundation is accepting applications for five $1,000 scholarships to be issued to college students enrolling in Ohio’s agriculture educator programs for the spring semester 2023.

This opportunity is open to any student who meets the minimum qualifications and is enrolled or planning to enroll in an agriculture teaching major or 4-H extension major at any of Ohio’s three Universities offering these programs or another two year or four-year school in Ohio offering a two plus two program or another pathway to become an agriculture teacher or extension educator.

The scholarship application for the Agriculture Education Foundation will consist of tuition assistance for five students.  This will be a non-reimbursable scholarship that can be used for tuition, university housing and class materials.  All funds will be administered through the institution’s office of billing and or tuition assistance. 

The five scholarships will consist of two for students at a four-year institution, two for students at a community college with a 2 plus 2 program, and one for an individual using the alternative pathway to become an agri-science teacher.

Applicants must have application materials submitted no later than November 28, 2022, 5pm.  Awards will be made no later than December 15, 2022.  Funds for the spring semester 2023 will be available through the institution by December 24, 2022.  Official application documents and requirements are available at www.agised.org.

All students meeting these qualifications are encouraged to apply.  Students seeking a degree through Central State University will be given higher consideration.

Click here to read Rockford Village Council minutes November 1, 2022 by Fiscal Agent Lisa Kuhn

Community Announcements and events:

November 4th – St. Teresa Chili Supper – Community building

4:30 – 7 pm – All are welcome !  Free will donations accepted.

November 5th –  Lions Club Pork Chop Dinner fundraiser

    Night at the Races –  Community building

November 8th – General Election – Community building

November 26th – Small Business Saturday

December 25th – Together at Christmas – sponsored by local churches.

                        Free meal – All are welcome – Community building.

Van Wert Health Honors Veterans with a
Free Meal at Brewed Expressions

Van Wert Health is teaming up with Brewed Expressions to honor veterans in our community. All active and retired members of the United States Armed Forces are invited to enjoy a free beverage or meal on Thursday, November 10 and Friday, November 11 at either of the Brewed Expressions locations.

This free meal is sponsored by Van Wert Health as a way to honor the heroic women and men who have served our country. Both Brewed Expressions locations are participating in this event.  The Brewed Expressions Café is located at 109 W. Main Street, Van Wert, Ohio and the Brewed Expressions Drive-Thru is located at 1114 S. Washington Street, Van Wert, Ohio.

Mercer County Engineer Employees Participate in a Snow Plow Rodeo – Safety Rules Explained for General Public

Every other year Mercer County Engineer snow and ice control crews participate with their counterparts from Allen and Auglaize counties in competitions testing their skills against others in their profession.

The activity allows the crews to network with others in the region about snow and ice control, safety and other county engineer work efforts.  The three counties (Allen, Auglaize and Mercer) involved take turns hosting the event. This year the event was held at the Mercer County Fairgrounds.

On November 1, 2022 the Mercer County Team A came in first place, with Allen County Team A coming in second.  In the individual snow plow competition, Mercer County’s Tony Knapke, Derrick Harter and Todd Freeman placed 1st ,2nd and 3rd, respectively.

Equipment rodeo results are as follows:  1st Place Backhoe Basketball: Jeff Steinke (Auglaize County), 1st Place Backhoe Bowling: Dusty Messner (Mercer County), and 1st Place Skid Loader: Joel Etgen (Auglaize County).

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

We want to thank Adam & Firas, with Howard T. Moriarty for their safety presentation and David, with OHIO811 for his presentation on the OUPS call in process.  Thank you also, to Joe and Brandon, with Southeastern Equipment for the use of your equipment to use in our competition.  And, thank you to all the vendors & sponsors who participated in this event.

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

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

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

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

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

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

            ·Keep track of the road conditions and advisories issued by the Mercer County Sheriff.

Serious Injury Accident on 11-6-2022
Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports that his office is investigating a serious injury accident.  Central Dispatch received a 911 call at 8:18 AM today (11-6-2022) advising of a traffic crash at the intersection of SR 219 and Burkettsville-St.Henry Rd.

The preliminary investigation indicates that Grant Ebbing (18) of Coldwater was driving a 2021 Chevy pickup truck Westbound on SR 219.  A 2017 Honda sedan driven by Angel Martinez Cruz (27) of St. Henry was Northbound on Burkettsville-St. Henry Rd, along with Celeste Velazquez (29) of St. Henry as his passenger.  Cruz failed to stop for the stop sign on Burkettsville-St. Henry Rd. at SR 219and struck the Chevy pickup truck.  Cruz and Velaquez were both transported by Coldwater EMS to Mercer Health and were treated and released.  Ebbing was transported to Mercer Health by Coldwater EMS and flown by Lutheran Air to Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne for treatment.  

The Sheriff’s Office was assisted at the scene by members of the Coldwater Fire Department, Coldwater EMS and MCERV (Mercer County Emergency Response Volunteers).

The Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Team responded to the scene and the crash remains under investigation at this time.  When the case is completed, it will be forwarded to the Mercer County Prosecutors Office for review.

Pastor Michael Husted and Jerry Schaadt to speak
at St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their Veteran’s Day worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, November 13, 2022. Jerry Schaadt will speak about his recent Honor Flight. And, Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit with a sermon straight from the Bible. Based on 1 John 3:16-18, the title is “Sacrifice”.

Sunday school is at 9:30 AM. Children’s Church and Message are on the 1^st, 3^rd and 5^th Sundays. Bible based lessons and children’s activities taught. Snacks.

Please call the church office 419-942-1374, ask for Pastor Mike, for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – all Veterans and  the community are welcome to our Veteran’s Day Recognition.

Community Harvest Thanksgiving Service Announced

The Van Wert Area Minister’s Association is planning a community-wide Harvest Thanksgiving Service, Sunday, November 20 at 7:00 pm at First United Methodist Church in downtown Van Wert.  It is a revival of services which used to be held where the entire community would gather to give thanks for God’s blessings throughout the past year.

Local ministers and lay people will lead the service as they recognize the many agriculturalists and farmers in our community and thank them for their long hours of diligent work.  The entire community of Van Wert County is invited to show our gratitude to our farmers and our God.

This service has sprung from the numerous churches in our community who have hosted and supported an ongoing Thursday noon community prayer gathering over the past year and a half.  Every Thursday at noon, prayer warriors have gathered to diligently pray for the safety, health, and spiritual welfare of our Van Wert Community, State, Nation, and the World.  Each month, it has rotated between Trinity Friends Church, First UM, Pentecostal Way, Church on the Horizon, The Apostolic Church of Van Wert, Salem Presbyterian in Venedocia, Kingsley UM, and Trinity UM.  The ministers, leaders, and congregations of these churches invite all to join in this celebration service.

A special offering will be taken with proceeds going to the Christmas decorations in downtown Van Wert’s Fountain Park.

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

Photo Caption:  On Riley Road, directly south of Neptune, was the site of Reservoir Station, for the Reservoir Post Office, about two miles west of the Mercer-Auglaize County Line.

The United States Post Office had a Post Office, known as “Reservoir U.S. Post Office,” East of Celina, on Riley Road, located about where U.S. Rt. 29 is located.  The Reservoir Post Office was established June 4, 1852, and discontinued July 10, 1863.  This Reservoir Post Office was then re-established on April 14, 1871, which was then discontinued October 17, 1884, and the mail was then forwarded to Celina.  The 1897 Map of Mercer County, Ohio by E.H. Caylor, at Columbus, Ohio also identified this site as “Reservoir.”

In the 1888 Atlas of Mercer County, Ohio, by Griffing, Gordon, & Co., identified this site as Reservoir Station.  The L.E. & W. Railroad entered Mercer County, near the site of Fort Recovery, went on through St. Joseph, Ferner, near Philothea, and through Coldwater, to Celina, and turned east on the north side of Grand Lake, to enter Auglaize County.  (Those of you who study railroad history, recognize the nickname of the L.E. & W., as “Leave Early and Wait!”  Timetables for Trains were sometimes interrupted by a variety of reasons.

Another track for the Trolley Car, known as the Western Ohio Railway Interurban, ran between Celina and Saint Marys, and to points north and south, between 1902 and 1932.  The Trolley may have carried mail and also stopped at this Post Office at Reservoir Station.

The 1914 Railroad Map of Ohio identified this site as “Rose.”   The 1931 Mercer County Ohio Sohio Petroleum Products Map also identified this site as “Rose.”   Another old  and fragile map of Mercer County identified this site as “Blenheim.”  I wrote about the name of Blenheim years ago. 

For more research, about maps, see the book, “Mercer County, Ohio; History of the Land between the Saint Marys& Wabash River Valleys, Illustrated by Early Maps, 1755-2000,” which should be in your local Libraries. 

Whether named Reservoir, Reservoir Station, Rose, or Blenheim. . . this site has been lost to history.  I wonder if the United States Post Office ever considered posting plaques at the many sites of Post Offices in Rural Communities, prior to R.F.D. (Rural Free Delivery) whereby rural homes now have their own mail boxes!

Thank you to each one of you who have thanked me over the years, for doing the research and writing about our local history.  I have asked others to take my place in preserving local history.  I laughed when those individuals told me, “It would be too much work!”  I am completing my 50th Year serving at President of the Mercer County Historical Society, as well as overseeing the Mercer County Historical Museum.  The Mercer County Commissioners cut off all funds to the Mercer County Historical Society, as of February 2004.  That’s right; I am not paid, nor did I retire and “double dip,” like some County Employees do.

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

27th Annual Evening for Race Fans with Chase Briscoe

The Celina-Mercer County Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Chase Briscoe driver of the Stewart Hass #14 on the NASCAR Cup Series will be the featured guest of the 27th Annual Evening for Race Fans on Saturday, January 28th in St. Henry, Ohio.

Chase, a 3rd generation racer whose career began on the dirt tracks in and around his home state of Indiana at the age of 13, following his grandfather's and father's footsteps racing sprint cars on the bullrings of the Midwest. His career highlights while working his way to the NASCAR Cup Series include a 2016 ARCA Championship, winning the 2018 NASCAR Truck Series race at Eldora, seven NASCAR Xfinity Series wins and earning his first NASCAR Cup win at Phoenix in March 2022.

This event provides intriguing and great racing stories as the guests spend time on the stage with long time event Emcee Mike King as they reflect on their careers, other competitors, and the sport of auto racing. The evening includes an opportunity for autographs and a fantastic buffet dinner prepared by the staff at Romer’s Catering.

This event serves as a fundraiser with over $295,000 raised for the Chamber, EverHeart Hospice, and Community Health Professionals Hospice with the past 26 events.

Schedule of events:

Autograph session with Chase & other racing guest

Buffet dinner

Driver interviews conducted by Mike King

Race memorabilia auction

Tickets must be purchased prior to the event by calling the Celina-Mercer County Chamber of Commerce at (419) 586-2219.  Cost per ticket is $50; Visa & Master Card are accepted. Follow us on Facebook at “Chamber Race Night”.

Historic Main Street Van Wert to lead National Bank clock Restoration

VAN WERT – United by a commitment to revitalizing our historic downtown and commercial district, Main Street Van Wert will begin a campaign to restore the National Bank Clock on the corner of Washington and Main Street in 2023.

“This project will help preserve the character and heritage of our community by giving a sense of place and continuity,” said Joe Dray, Executive Director of Historic Main Street Van Wert. “Sense of place is essentially a relationship, it's dynamic and ever-evolving. When communities undergo needed change, it is important that it is not only welcoming to new members but also helps current ones not feel out of touch.”

The clock was built by the McClintock-Loomis Company around 1917 and was moved to it’s current location around 1923. The clock features Seth Thomas clockworks, which were high-quality clockworks at that time. It also features an indoor master clock control located inside the Municipal Court building.

“Sustained efforts to support various identities allow people to feel at home,” added Dray. “The rehabilitation of the clock will not only enhance the architectural character of downtown Van Wert, but will contribute to the ever-changing business district as well, complementing the Van Wert Forward project. The clock is a local landmark and focal point that people enjoyed for years. Unfortunately, Father Time has taken its toll on our iconic piece of downtown history. Our hopes are that the restoration of the clock reminds us of our rich past while looking forward to a bright future.”

The total coast of the project is estimated at $100,000 with $80,000 being used for restoration and $20,000 set aside for future maintenance and repairs.

November 3-7, 2022
 

Parkway November 2022 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

Remember!
November 6, 2022 - Daylight Saving Time Ends

Local daylight savings time changes:

Sunday, November 6, 2022, 2:00:00 am clocks are turned backward 1 hour to
Sunday, November 6, 2022, 1:00:00 am local standard time instead.

Sunrise and sunset will be about 1 hour earlier on Nov 6, 2022 than the day before. There will be more light in the morning.

Also called Fall Back and Winter Time.

"Promise of a New Day"
Foggy Sunrise
Taken by Tom Hone
at St. Paul's Country Church of Rockford
1538 Oregon Rd, Rockford
11-3-2022

 

Parkway Schools are now closed
for Thursday, October 3, 2022

Parkway Schools are now on a 3 hour delay
for Thursday, October 3, 2022
due to dense fog in the area.
 

Parkway Schools are on a
2 hour delay
for Thursday, October 3, 2022
Fog. 

NOV. 14 – 21: DROP-OFF SITES TO OPEN FOR OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD

Celina, Ohio, Nov 2, 2022—More than 4,500 locations will open to collect Operation Christmas Child shoebox gifts for the Samaritan’s Purse project. Volunteers are preparing to collect shoebox gifts during National Collection Week, Nov. 14 ­– 21.

Operation Christmas Child has been collecting and delivering shoebox gifts—filled with school supplies, hygiene items and fun toys—to children worldwide since 1993. Anyone can pack a shoebox! In 2022, Operation Christmas Child hopes to collect enough shoeboxes to reach another 11 million children.

Individuals, families, and groups still have time to transform empty shoeboxes into fun gifts. The project partners with local churches across the globe to deliver these tangible expressions of God’s love to children in need. Find a step-by-step guide on the How to Pack a Shoebox webpage.

“Now more than ever, children around the world need to know that God loves them and there is hope,” said Franklin Graham, president of Samaritan’s Purse. “A simple shoebox gift opens the door to share about the true hope that can only be found in Jesus Christ.”

Participants can find the nearest drop-off location and hours of operation as they make plans to drop off their shoebox gifts. The online lookup tool is searchable by City or ZIP code. Signs at each location will identify the drop-off.

Grand Lake United Methodist Church

             St. Pauls Campus

            119 E Fulton Street

             Celina, OH 45822

Mon, Nov. 14: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Tue, Nov. 15: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Wed, Nov. 16: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Thu, Nov. 17: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Fri, Nov. 18: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Sat, Nov. 19: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Sun, Nov. 20: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Mon, Nov. 21: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Calvary Evangelical

10686 Van Wert Decatur Rd

        Van Wert, OH 45891

Mon, Nov. 14: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Tue, Nov. 15: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Wed, Nov. 16: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Thu, Nov. 17: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Fri, Nov. 18: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Sat, Nov. 19: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Sun, Nov. 20: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

Mon, Nov. 21: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse, seeks to demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way to children in need around the world and, together with the local church worldwide, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ. Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected and delivered more than 198 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 170 countries and territories. This year, Operation Christmas Child will collect its 200-millionth shoebox!

Western Ohio Civil War Roundtable to Meet

The speaker on November 17 at the Western Ohio Civil War Roundtable is Dr. Brian Dirck. He is a professor of History at Anderson University in Indiana.  He is a foremost authority on Abraham Lincoln, and he has several books to his credit.

Professor Dirck frequently tries out material from his book research on our Roundtable discussions. His topic on the 17th will be "Lincoln and various correspondences he had with Horace Greeley". Greeley was an editor and publisher. He founded the New York Tribune. He was an abolitionist, and Radical Republican. He wrote to the president so often, that Lincoln had a special cubbyhole in his desk for letters from Greeley. 

The venue is the Richardson Bretz Memorial Building in Celina at 119 W. Fulton Street. Time 7:15 PM.

NOTE the early meeting date. Due to Thanksgiving coming on our regular meeting date, they will move up the calendar a week to Thursday the 17th. Dr. Dirck is an outstanding speaker, and he makes a special effort to work us into his schedule. Please return the favor, and commit yourself to attend this symposium.

Liberty Baptist Church to Celebrate 40 Years

The public is invited to the 40^th Anniversary of their church on Friends and Family Day.
The celebration is Sunday, November 13. Worship begins at 10:45 AM at 501 E, Third St., Van Wert, OH. Sunday School 9:45 and Noon Dinner. The Homelighters Quartet will sing.

Harvest Jubilee

The Annual Harvest Jubilee will be held Sunday, November 13th at the Rockford United Methodist 202 South Franklin Street in Rockford.    For more than 15 years celebrating a bountiful harvest, members and friends of the church have shared a variety of light-hearted musical, artistic, and dramatic performances with their church family and community.  The presentation of their God-given talents and gifts will begin at 6 pm in the church sanctuary.   For more information, contact the church office at 419-363-3230, by email at office.mgr.rumc@bright.net or check out the church website www.rumcoh.org  or Rockford United Methodist Church Facebook page.   Barb Pedroza is the Harvest Jubilee coordinator.

Stateline Writers Club will meet
The Stateline Writers Club will meet Saturday, Nov. 19 at 10 a.m. at the Mercer County District Library in Celina. 
The club members will present the fairy tales that include someone who can communicate with woodland creatures.

The public is welcome to attend. They can write their own stories but do not need to do so.

New Pastor Michael Husted Coming to St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, November 6, 2022. The new Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit with a sermon straight from the Bible. Based on Hebrews 12:1-3, the title is Find Us Faithful.

Sunday school is at 9:30 AM. Children’s Church is on the 1^st, 3^rd and 5^th Sundays. Bible based lessons and children’s activities taught. Snacks.

Please call the church office 419-942-1374 for any questions regarding worship services. Or visit the St. Paul’s – Rockford Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information.

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – the community is welcome  

Rockford Carnegie Library Board of Trustees will meet
The Rockford Carnegie Library Board of Trustees will meet in regular session on Tuesday, November 8 at 4 pm in the basement meeting room of the library. The public is welcome to attend.  

October 26 - November 2, 2022
 

On Saturday, October 22nd the first class of Parkway School gathered at Westlake Lodge Celina to celebrate their 60th year of graduation.

Van Wert Post Investigates a Serious Injury Crash November 2022

Grover Hill – The Van Wert Post is currently investigating a serious two vehicle injury crash that occurred at approximately 2:49 PM today in Paulding County near Grover Hill, Ohio.

A black 2014 Ford Focus being operated by Lilianna A. Egia, of Defiance, Ohio, was traveling eastbound on County Road 72 and entered the intersection at State Route 637.   A white 2013 Freightliner semi hauling scrap steel and operated by Thomas L. Snell, of Rockford, Ohio, was southbound on State Rout 637. The Snell vehicle struck the Egia vehicle and exited the left side of the roadway, overturned, spilling it’s load of steel and caught fire. The Egia vehicle exited the right side of the roadway coming to rest just south of the intersection.

Thomas L. Snell suffered serious burns as a result of the fire and was flown by Mercy Life Flight to St. Vincent Medical Center in Toledo, Ohio. Lilianna A. Egia suffered minor injuries and was transported by Oakwood EMS to Defiance Regional Medial Center in Defiance, Ohio. Both drivers were wearing their seatbelts.

Troopers were assisted at the scene by the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office, Oakwood EMS, Grover Hill Fire Department and Rescue, ODOT, Paulding County EMA, Gideon’s Towing and Recovery and John’s Towing and Recovery.

The crash remains under investigation and the Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds motorists to always wear seat belts and to never drive distracted or impaired.

A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC From Broadway coming to Van Wert

 

Van Wert, OH—  — Area musicians and actors will be performing in a Hollywood & Broadway themed concert titled, “A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC”, A Concert Featuring Sights & Sounds from Stage & Screen, which will be held at The First United Methodist Church of Van Wert on Saturday evening, November 12th from 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM.

“A Little Night Music” will include more than just musical Broadway standards. Acting, costumes and visual arts will also be part of the concert. The sanctuary doors will open promptly at 6:15 PM before the concert at 7:00 PM.

Organist, Gloria Wendel will usher the audience into “A Little Night Music”, with Bach’s “Toccata & Fugue in D Minor” on the recently upgraded majestic Noehren pipe organ.  Annette Hoverman & Marilyn Alessandrini will be at the piano keys for Bernstein’s “Tonight” from “West Side Story”. The ensemble - In Spiritu with Beth Conn, Kristina Welker, Melinda Farmer, Jody Jones, Sue Steinen, Jody Lichtenberger, Jean Etzler, Stacie Korte, Mary Ann Falk, Dee Hartsock-Fisher, Sheila Chilcote-Collins, & featured soloist, Jill Jeffery, will be performing a “loverly” medley from Lerner & Lowe’s “My Fair Lady” and also some great Simon & Garfunkel tunes from the Academy Award winning 1967 film, “The Graduate”.

Rod Sroufe, double bass, Dee Fisher, piano, Cindy Gardner, violin, Paul Hoverman, trumpet, Dane Newlove, percussion, & Jeremy Laukuf, bass/keyboard will be bringing several well-known tunes from stage and screen, including selections from “Fiddler On The Roof”, “West Side Story” & the 1949 Frank Sinatra/Gene Kelly musical, "On The Town". 

Vocal solos from Ms. Falk, Ms. Hartsock-Fisher, and Ms. Chilcote-Collins will include well-known selections from “Gypsy”, “The King & I”, “When Pigs Fly”, and Stephen Sondheim’s, “A Little Night Music” to name a few.

David Van Tilburg, pianist, will be performing a truly astounding realization of Leonard Pennario’s,  “Midnight On The Cliffs”, from the 1956 Doris Day film noir, “Julie”.

Please join us for a truly fun & fabulous evening! This concert is free & open to the public. The First United Methodist Church is located at 113 W. Central across from Fountain Park in downtown Van Wert.

Van Wert Elks Donate to Wreaths Across America through Local DAR
 

Isaac Van Wart Chapter, DAR, would like to thank the Van Wert Elks Lodge for participating in the "Wreaths Across America" program by purchasing wreaths to honor veterans buried in Van Wert Woodland Cemetery..... with Elks Member, Mr. Mike Stanley & DAR members Mickey McConahay & Linda Schumm. Contact DAR members to purchase your wreaths by Thanksgiving.

Picture: Mike Stanley, VW Elks; Mickey McConahay, Linda Schumm

Rockford Lions Club Hears about Sales Tax on the Fall Ballot and Plan Pork Chop Dinner

On Monday, October 10th Mercer County Chief Deputy Doug Timmerman, Treasurer Dave Wolters and Auditor Randy Grapner spoke to the Rockford Lions Club about the upcoming sales tax issue on the November 2022 ballot. It is not a new tax but a continuation of the existing sales tax in Mercer County.

The Lions Club Pork Chop Dinner will be held Saturday, November 5th from 11 to 1 pm at the Rockford Carry Out, 156 South Main Street.  This Drive-Thru and Pick Up event, a joint effort of the Rockford, Willshire and Mendon Lions Clubs will benefit the Parkway Eighth Grade Class Trip. Tickets are $10 and available at the Rockford Carry Out, as well as from any member of the Rockford, Mendon, or Willshire Lions Clubs.

Proceeds from Area Lions Club projects fund scholarships and help fulfill community needs and requests. The next meeting of the Rockford Lions Club will be Monday, November 14, 2022 at 6:30 pm at the Rockford Village Hall.

UTV Accident Reported by Sheriff Grey
Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports that on October 22nd, 2022 at 7:24 PM, Central Dispatch received a call in reference to a missing juvenile. It was reported that the juvenile had left a family gathering on Indian Trail Road, Marion Township, on a Ranger UTV and had not returned. As deputies were responding to take the initial report, an injury accident involving an ATV was reported at 7:42 PM, near the intersection of Huwer Rd and Homan Rd. Deputies responded and the injured juvenile was identified by family as the missing teen.

The preliminary investigation shows that for an unknown reason, the 2011 Polaris Ranger 4x4 entered a corn field on the south side of Huwer Rd, west of Clune-Stucke Rd. Deputies suspect that the sole occupant, Jacob M Dahlinghaus (17) of Tipp City, OH, was ejected from the UTV in the cornfield. The UTV was located in the cornfield, west of the juvenile.

Careflight was called to the scene and transported Dahlinghaus to Miami Valley Hospital for treatment.  Assisting at the scene were members of the Osgood Squad and Osgood Fire Department.

This incident remains under investigation by the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office.

EXIT LAUGHING SET FOR NOVEMBER

At Van Wert Civic Theatre

When the biggest highlight in your life for the past 30 years has been your weekly bridge night out with the “girls”, what do you do when one of your foursome inconveniently dies?  If you are three southern ladies from Birmingham, you do the most daring thing you’ve ever done.  You “borrow” the ashes from the funeral home for one last card game…

But these broads have no idea what is in store for them.  The physical comedy, witty dialogue and veteran actors on stage will leave  you in stitches.

Come!  Be entertained!  As these characters have a night to remember, we’ll all be reminded to always Live Life to the Fullest! 

Our box office is open and taking reservations for all productions this season!  Call 419-238-9689 or book online at vwct.org.

Exit Laughing is directed by Stan Lippi and features Emily Gehle, Travis Nihiser, Amy McConn, Jan Miller and Stephanie Wagner.

Show dates November 3,4,5,6 and 10,11,12,13

Van Wert Civic Theatre 118 S. Race St. Van Wert, Ohio

419-238-9689

 Calvary Evangelical Church Calendar

LOST. RECOVERED. REBORN – New Exhibit ArtSpace Lima

Pastor Nick Miller Coming to St. Paul’s Country Church

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, October 30, 2022. This congregation is blessed to have Pastor Nick Miller in the pulpit that day.

Nick’s lesson on Sunday, October 30, 2022 is from the book of Matthew 6  entitled “True Fasting”. Nick will have a children’s message as well.

Sunday School is at 9:30 am. Children’s Message and Children’s Church are on the 1^st, 3^rd and 5^th Sundays monthly. All children are invited to these very special Bible learning experiences and craft activities.
Please call Becky Jo Shope 419-363-2227 for any questions regarding the worship services.

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

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – please join us as we worship our Lord Jesus Christ.

October 18-25, 2022
 

Pastor Steve Howell Coming to St. Paul’s Country Church

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, October 23, 2022. This congregation is blessed to have retired Pastor Steve Howell in the pulpit that day.

Steve’s lesson on Sunday, October 23, 2022 continues in the book of Acts 6:1-7  entitled “Something for Everyone”.

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

Sunday School is at 9:30 am. Children’s Message and Children’s Church are on the 1^st, 3^rd and 5^th Sundays monthly. All children are invited to these very special Bible learning experiences and craft activities.

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

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

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – please join us as we worship our Lord Jesus Christ.

Remember!
November 6, 2022 - Daylight Saving Time Ends

Local daylight savings time changes:

Sunday, November 6, 2022, 2:00:00 am clocks are turned backward 1 hour to
Sunday, November 6, 2022, 1:00:00 am local standard time instead.

Sunrise and sunset will be about 1 hour earlier on Nov 6, 2022 than the day before. There will be more light in the morning.

Also called Fall Back and Winter Time.

October 11-17, 2022
 

Parkway Class of 1967 Celebrates 55th Reunion

The Parkway High School Class of 1967 met on September 24, 2022 to celebrate their 55th class reunion.

Classmates and former teachers gathered together to reminisce school days and renew friendships that were formed years ago. The reunion was held at the Hopewell Grange Hall at the Mercer County Fairgrounds in Celina which included a great meal prepared by the Hopewell Grange Members.  A class picture was taken to remember this special evening and those in attendance. Pictured seated left to right: Dean Gunderson; Vickie Gause Bollenbacher; Linda Gehm Duff; Sandy Miller Ulrey; Becky Suman White; Teresa Cochran Fuleki; and Doug Carr. Standing: Teacher Naomi Sipe Lehman; Wade Marbaugh; Diane Kimmel Schumm; Jim Hawk; Sandy Sipe Schwartz; Judy Secaur Stephenson; Diane Mihm Sheets; Clinton Bennett; Betty Berry Cooper; Greg Schumm; Roberta Beeks LePage;  Metta Stucky Hike; Loisann Felver Yoh; Myra Hoblet Sustae; and Teacher Norman VanTilburg.

Pastor Michael Husted, Guest Minister Coming to St. Paul’s Country Church of Rockford

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, October 16, 2022. Retired minister, Pastor Michael Husted, will be in the pulpit, offering a test sermon to the congregation.

The sermon title is “Awareness of Jesus’ Presence.” It is based on the Holy Gospel of Luke 24:13-33a.

On Saturday afternoon 10-15-2022, there will be at 5 PM pizza and salad dinner, in the church fellowship hall to meet Pastor Husted. He will also be available on Sunday morning at 9 AM before worship - during a coffee and doughnut get together. 

A congregational meeting and vote will be taken after the sermon on Sunday.

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

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

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

Fraternal Order of Eagles in Rockford Completes Recent Addition

The Fraternal Order of Eagles 1292  in Rockford recently completed a building project – an addition of an outdoor social area.  Eagle’s membership bought the property directly to the north of their Aerie which was once the Terry’s Trim building. In 2021, after razing the building, they began construction of the outdoor area complete with concrete patio, decorative fencing, two entrances to the Eagles Lodge and large scenic windows that people can see out, but no one can see in. Tables and chairs complete the outdoor patio. Taller seating inside the building looks out onto the patio. The final piece was recently set in place by members – a large concrete Eagle weighing over 600 lbs sits on a one ton concrete pedestal. Member Howie Courtney took charge of purchasing the Eagle and getting it painted with details. Dick Shaffer created the concrete pedestal  with the Aerie number1292 molded into it. The Eagles invite you to come by and take a look.

Chicken Dinners at the Chatt Fire Department
Chicken Dinners are being sold as a fund raiser for the Chatt Fire Department on Sunday, October 16th from 11 to 1. No ticket needed for day of pick-up. $10 for ½ chicken, baked beans and applesauce. Pick up at drive through or dine-in.  Call Lucas Minnich 419-733-0597 for more info.

REA STUDENTS TO ENJOY LIMA SYMPHONY YOUNG PEOPLE’S CONCERTS

Lima, OH (October 13, 2022) – The Lima Symphony Orchestra will present its annual Young People’s Concert for area school groups on Friday, October 21 at 9:30 AM and 11 AM at the Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center (7 Town Square, Lima, OH 45801).

This year, the Symphony welcomes Indian Classical Music virtuoso Sandeep Das to the stage as we explore Musical Storytelling. Led by Maestro Andrew Crust, the Lima Symphony Orchestra will explore captivating tales from the near to far East through musical fantasy. Opening this incredible concert are the subtle and varied sounds of the Indian Tabla. Completing this musical voyage is Rimsky-Korsakov’s romantic masterpiece Scheherazade, inspired by folklore from 1,001 Arabian Nights.

Each year, more than 3,500 school children enjoy learning about and listening to symphonic music at live performances by our full orchestra designed especially for young people. The Young People’s Concerts are a free educational service provided by the Lima Symphony Orchestra.

Western Ohio Civil War Roundtable to Meet

Harry Frech will be the speaker for the October 27 meeting at 7 PM of the Western Ohio Civil War Roundtable. Harry is a fellow member of the Roundtable, and has done several, well received, talks before our group. This month, his topic will be the 15th OVI, its outstanding record during the war and what the members of the regiment perceived as mistreatment by the army and government at war’s end.

Others might enjoy this good speaker with an interesting topic. The public is invited.

Stillwater Roundtable to Meet

Our October meeting of the Stillwater Roundtable is coming up quickly!  The meeting is at the Hayner Center in Troy, on Tuesday, October 18th, at 7 pm.

Dave Gilmore will be speaking on US General Joseph Hooker's life and service in the war.  He will be attempting the seemingly impossible feat of rehabilitating the sullied reputation of Mr. Hooker!  Sounds like we'll get to hear all of the dirt on "Fighting Joe".

Rockford Carnegie Library Board of Trustees Cancels but Plans to Meet

"The Rockford Carnegie Library Board of Trustees will meet for their regular meeting on Tuesday, November 8 at 4 p.m. in the basement meeting room.  The public is always invited to attend regular meetings." The meeting in October was cancelled.

October 4-10, 2022
 

The Stateline Writers Club will meet Saturday, Oct. 15 at 10 a.m. in the meeting room of the Mercer County District Library in Celina.

The writing topic is "Begin or end your story with 'Well, that was dramatic!'"

Anyone interested in writing is invited to attend a meeting. It is not necessary to bring a story but you are welcome to do so.

Rockford, OHIO to hold Fall Fest - October 29th, 2022 - activities begin @ 10 am.    
    
Join us Saturday, October 29th  for a full day of festivities in Rockford. Starting at 10am at the heart of it all - Rockford's Main Street! Enjoy the vendors market and retail specials at participating businesses from 10am-3pm.  Take in the fall decorations, fresh air, and local eats, while socializing with your community.
    
   Special Events Include:
    
   Large Variety Vendor Market
    
FREE Make and Take FALL craft and free will donation Book Sale @ Rockford Carnegie Library from 10am-2pm.  KIDS -  Stop by the library for a FREE book during Trick or Treat 5-6:30 pm !  
  
RCO TO GO – Breakfast and lunch options!
    
Rockford Eagles will be sponsoring a Chili Cook off !  Chili registration begins at noon - $5 registration fee. Tasting begins at 2 pm. $50 to each 1st place winner in 3  categories Spicy, Meat lovers, traditional. They will have live music, a cake walk and face painting from 1- 3.     Raffling off meat trays throughout the day!  -- Kids stop back for treats from 5:00-6:30.    * Open to the Public
    
Pre Trick-or-Treat @ New Horizons Community Church – providing a  FREE event - food, Pony Rides, pumpkin painting, kids train and Trunk-or-Treat in their parking lot from 4 – 6 pm.
    
The Village of Rockford's Trick-or-Treat will take place from 5-6:30pm.  Do you live outside of the village and would enjoy seeing the little trick-or-treaters? Come, help us set up a trick-or-treat line on the sidewalks of Main Street.  
    
Make sure you stop by the Rockford Fire Dept at 7pm for costume judging and delicious fall treats.

Pastor Steve Howell Coming to St. Paul’s Country Church
AutumnFest Supper and Auction on October 9, 2022

The membership of St. Paul’s Country Church, located at 1538 Oregon Road, Rockford, OH invites you to their worship service at 10 AM on Sunday, October 9, 2022. This congregation is blessed to have retired Pastor Steve Howell in the pulpit that day.

Steve’s lesson on Sunday, October 9, 2022 moves into the book of Acts 5:1-11  entitled “A Healthy Fear”.

Later that evening, the annual AutumnFest with Homemade food and desserts will start at 4:30 PM followed by the auction, called by Tom Robbins Auctioneers. Join us for food and fun. All auction proceeds go to church missions.

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

Sunday School is at 9:30 am. Children’s Message and Children’s Church are on the 1^st, 3^rd and 5^th Sundays monthly. All children are invited to these very special Bible learning experiences and craft activities.

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

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

We are an INDEPENDENT church following the Bible – please join us as we worship our Lord Jesus Christ.

AutumnFest Coming to St. Paul's Country Church
St. Paul’s Country Church, 1522 Oregon Rd., Rockford, OH will be having their  “AUTUMNFEST”  on Sunday, October 9, 2022.

The evening begins with delicious food at 4:30.  The menu includes Creamed Chicken, and Sloppy Joe sandwiches.  We will also be serving chicken noodle and potato soup.  Pie will also be included.

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

The proceeds from the evening will be used for the Backpack Program and for future projects for the Women’s Fellowship.

Everyone is invited to this event.

 
September 26- October 3, 2022
The Parkway Independent is 18 years old!
 

Parkway High School Homecoming

The Parkway Student Government is pleased to invite all community members and alumni to the annual fall homecoming festivities. This year’s homecoming game, which sees the Parkway football team facing off against Minster, will be held on September 30th starting at 7:00pm. The homecoming festivities will be held before the game with a parade beginning at 6:15pm. The parade will start at the high school and travel down Pine Street to the football field. This year, the lovely attendants of Parkway’s Homecoming Court include Freshman Brittyn Bruns, Sophomore Adria Miller, and Junior Emma Prichard. The three Senior candidates for Homecoming Queen are Ali Rowen, Alyx Yoder, and Gabrielle Stober. Come and enjoy the efforts of the Parkway football team, marching band, and student body, and find out which lucky lady is crowned Homecoming Queen!

Parkway October 2022 Printable Breakfast and Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

21^st Century Club Begins the New 100^th Club Year

The Twenty First Century Club met for the opening meeting of the year on September 27, 2022. The club is officially 100 years old. The meeting was held at the Rockford United Methodist Church for a lovely dinner featuring Italian spaghetti, salad and garlic bread. An ice cream dessert topped off the meal by President Janet Steffy. Karla Butler, vice president, welcomed everyone (in the absence of the president) and called the meeting to order.  12 members were present. Roll-Call was completed with everyone stating something funny that had happened to them in the past. This got everyone laughing.

Minutes from the tea in May of 2022 were read by secretary Kim Carr and approved. The treasurer, Valerie Fritzinger was absent, so there was no treasurer’s report.

Dues of $5 were collected. Karla reported that the Helping Hands Food Pantry in Rockford needs chunky soups to be collected at October’s meeting.

50 year member Judy Evans was at the meeting as was Sheryl Frahm, 47 year member. Sheryl recalled the late Dee Lewis’ mother as one of the founding 4 members of 20^th Century Club.

New member, Melanie Shindeldecker, was heartily welcomed and presented with a potted yellow mum, the club flower. 

The new year’s program booklets were passed out. The theme for the year “Funny Girl – Funny Guy” was introduced by Karla. She also explained that a famous Ohio comedienne and  comedian will be featured as the program at each upcoming meeting. Karla went on to explain that laughter has benefits: boosts mood; inspires hope; releases anger; strengthen the immune system; triggers endorphins; burns calories. Laughter is good and free. The two funny people for the evening were: Kym Elizabeth Whitley and Bob Hope. Whitley worked with Red Fox and was in many movies. Bob Hope worked with the USO, Vaudeville and had his own radio show. He went on to films and Broadway.

The next meeting will be on Tuesday, October 25, 2022 at Rockford United Methodist Church Cafe Room. Karla Butler and Toni Fisher are hostesses with Sheila Baltzell-Linn and Kim Carr providing the program.

Contact Sheila Baltzell-Linn if you are interested in attending a meeting.

Monarch Surprise
Pastor Doug Meyer and his wife Sheila planned a special surprise for the children and congregation on Sunday, September 18, 2022 . His children’s lesson was about new life in Christ, the symbol of the butterfly. With the help of the Mercer County Soil and Water Conservation District director, they were able to arrange the hatching and release of real Monarch butterflies during the worship service – outside of course. It was beautiful! Thank you Doug and Sheila! In the pictures are Charles and Bear, Children's Church participants, who enjoyed watching the monarchs hatch and fly. One Monarch can be seen sitting on Charles' head!

Community Wide Food Drive

Celina, OH – The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office will once again be holding a Community Wide Food Drive. The food drive will take place from October 16th to October 31st, 2022. Donations can be dropped off at the Sheriff’s Office Lobby at 4835 State Route 29 in Celina, OH. All donated items will be divided up between the C.A.L.L. Food Pantry and Our Home Family Resource Center.

Our office chose to start the drive on October 16th, as that is World Food Day. Hunger and food insecurity is a worldwide problem…which includes many of our neighbors, friends, and family. For more information about World Food Day, please visit the website: https://www.fao.org/world-food-day/en.

The staff of the Sheriff’s Office has been collecting items for our local food pantry since 2016. We would like to invite the public to participate in this event to help those less fortunate in our communities.