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September 26, 2016
Parkway Independent - Celebrating 12 years of bringing news to the Parkway area communities.

 

Van Wert County Hospital and Van Wert Elementary School to Host Kid’s Health Fair

Van Wert, OH – Van Wert County Hospital and Van Wert Elementary School, along with several supporting partners, will host the 10th Annual Kid’s Health Fair on Friday, September 30 at Van Wert County Hospital for Van Wert Elementary students in 3rd-5th grades.  According to the World Health Organization, health is not just the absence of disease, but rather it is the complete physical, mental, and social well-being of an individual.  This approach to complete healthy living is the basis for the Kid’s Health Fair.  Students will complete activities at each of the following stations:

Balance & Flexibility, Dental Health, Stone Quarry Safety (sponsored by Stoneco, a division of the Shelley Co.), Hands-Only CPR, Back Yard Safety (sponsored by Kenn-Feld Group), Responding in an Emergency (in conjunction with Van Wert County Hospital Emergency Department & Lutheran Mobile ICU), Poison Safety & Tobacco Prevention (sponsored by Van Wert County Health Department), and Disability Awareness.

Special lunch-break activities include the opportunity to see an ambulance up close (sponsored by Braun Industries, Inc.); hear how fireman respond in an emergency and stay safe (sponsored by Van Wert Fire Department); see how police officers use K-9 dogs to help search for drugs; interact with the Van Wert County D.A.R.E. Team; and the chance to practice talking with a 9-1-1 operator.

Students will also complete a 1-mile fun run around the Van Wert County Hospital campus.  Parents and community supporters are encouraged to spectate at the fun run to cheer on the runners. Fourth graders will run at 10:15 am; Third graders will run at 10:45 am; and Fifth graders will run at 11:15 am.  Four local community figures will also run with the kids to demonstrate the importance of physical activity at all ages – Joel Hammons, Chief of Van Wert County Police Department; Ryan Holliday, Varsity Boys Cross-County Coach; Jay Fleming, Van Wert County Safety Service Director; and Kimberly Laudick, Executive Director of the YWCA of Van Wert County.  Fun run times may vary in the case of a school delay that day.

For additional information about the Kid’s Health Fair, please contact Ellen Rager, Director of Patient and Community Relations at Van Wert County Hospital at 419-238-2390.

Parkway Class of 1966 Celebrates 50 year Mark

The Parkway Class of 1966 celebrated their 50th class reunion Saturday September 17, 2016 at Romer’s Westlake Lodge, Celina. Those in attendance were:

Row 1- Lynn (Miller) Hinkle, Toni (Dellinger) Pentino, Linda (White) Ford, Sandra Shelly, Marilyn (Suman) Lautzenheiser, Linda (Frye) Warthman, Donna (Canary) Riley, Karen (Bollenbacher) Casey, Shirley (Secrest) Brandon, Kathy (Siedel) Wilkeson

Row 2- Dennis Hinkle, Linda (Schroer) Williams, Susan (Eischen) Jones, Paul Donovan, Millie (Bruns) Donovan, Kathy (Eichenauer) Kimmel, Jane (Rumple) Heyd, Paula (Leistner) Reeves, Dee (Brumbaugh) Miller, Vicki Shell, Jerry Duff, Sherry (August) Eady, Sue (Howell) Miller, Keith Rutledge, Anita (Adams) Rutledge, Steve Haines, Fred Bollenbacher, Reed Shaffer

Row 3- Tom Kimmel, Bob Brown, Tom Stephenson, John Painter, Rex Miller, Steve Graham, Jack Berry, Ron Dietrich, Lu (Roehm) Grunden, Jim DeArmond, Jackson Ireland, Van Riley, Steve Thompson, Tim Bollenbacher, Jack Provci, Myron Myers

Parkway Boys Golf
by Coach Joe Falk
The Parkway Boys Golf Tam finish out the year in a 5th place tie with Ft. Recovery in the MAC after placing 6th in the season ending MAC tournament with a team score of 383. Leading the way for the Panthers was Mason Baxter with a 91. Jack Wehe scored a 93. Cole Schoenleben shot a 98 and Ashton Hamrick finished out the 383 for Parkway with a 101. Duncan Morton shot a 107 and Andy Metz a 109 for the Panthers as well.

Mason Baxter won 2nd Team All MAC honors for Parkway and Cole Schoenleben made Honorable Mention All MAC for a combination of their results throughout the regular season, as well as the league tournament.

MAC FINAL STANDINGS - 2016

Parkway Girls Golf 9/22/16

By Coach Teri Samples

Lincolnview 184      Parkway 215

Lincolnview defeated Parkway in match play at Deerfield, with Makenzie Kraft scoring 43 to earn medalist for the Lahcers and just slipping past Parkway's Haylee Stukey's 44.  McKenzie Davis, Macala Ashbaugh and Marissa Miller all had 47's to round out the scoring for the Lancers.

For the Panthers, Mecaylah Hesse shot a 55, followed by Lauren Henderson and Autumn Ellis both carding 58's.  Maggie Houts finished her last home round with a 63 on Senior Night.

Calvary Preschool Celebrates 50th year with an Open House on October 9, from 2:00 -4:00 PM.            

Calvary Preschool was envisioned by Rev. Howard McCracken and the Calvary E.U.B Church board located on the corner of Maple and Jefferson Streets.  Judy Fox was hired as the first Preschool Director as well as the Education Director for the church.  The preschool began in the fall of 1966 with Janet McCracken as the head teacher and Judy Gribler Fox as the aide.  Classes met in the basement rooms which also served as Sunday School classrooms.  Fourteen children enrolled in our 1st 4-year-old class.  The second year a 3-year-old class was added with Arlene Williamson as the teacher and Ruth Gribler the aide for 4 year olds.  The Preschool continued to grow.  In 1969, the preschool moved to the Good Building on N. Washington Street and met there until moving into the Educational Unit on Van Wert Decatur Road at Sidle Road in the spring of 1975.  Over 60 ladies have been involved in teaching or helping in the preschool.  They are:  Janet McCracken, Arlene Williamson, Ruth Gribler, Kay Ray, Beverly DeCamp, Marie Druckemiller, Connie DuVall, Marilyn Agler, Betty Stetler, Cheryl Ellis, Kay Habegger, Nancy Jones, Ronna Kyle, Delana Galbreath, Penny Barker, Ruth Schaadt, Joy Cox, Anita Baxter, Susan Kummers, Marilyn Deitsch, Esther Thatcher, Jill Putman, Ruth Rife, Judy Herminghuysen, Brenda Breece, Carolyn Baker, Martha Clark, Sue Riley, Sue Arn, Gina Say, Virginia LaValley, Pauline McGarvey, Mary Kay Ransbottom, Deb Springer, Dottie Bolton, Paula Giessler, Shirley Beard, Cindy Thornell Shotts, Joyce Coleman, Carolyn Jamieson, Loretta Williams, Susan Anspach, Deb Fegley, Diane Fisher, Sharon DeBolt, Charlene Ries, Brenda Merkle, Kandy Saunier, Lynette Westergerdes, JoAnn Collins, Andi McCune, Ashley Mengerink Whetsel, Heidi Breese, Michelle Jurczyk, Pat Lippi, Jill Amweg, Heather Riggenbach, Marie Markward, Jane Long, Vicki Chavarria, Nikki Money and Melissa Wallace.  Directors that have served the preschool are:  Judy Fox, Jean Miller, Kay Ray, Ernestine Springer, Ginny Turner, Nancy Bell.  Marilyn Agler returned as director for the 2014-2015 school year after teaching 11 years, from 1973-1984.  Current teachers are Vicki Chavarria, Issa Ickes and Julie Stewart.

The Calvary Preschool is proud of the Christian heritage that is a constant in the program.

Thank you to all who have served the preschool. We continue to help children develop spiritually, emotionally and academically.

There are a few openings remaining for all age groups that meet from 8:30 – 11:30 a m.  Call the preschool office @567-259-3103 or go on the web @ www.calvaryelife.org and select the preschool tab, or follow us on Facebook at Calvary Preschool Van Wert.

Genealogical Society will Meet

Sunday October 2, at 2:00 the Mercer County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society will meet.  The speakers will be Juanita Wilkens and Judy Zehringer.  The ladies will explain the process and steps of using supporting documentation to enter First Families of Mercer County. This will be a great source for anyone wishing to become a member of a lineage group.  Come with questions or problems and share in the discussion.  The group meets at the Richardson Bretz Building in Celina.  It is located behind the Celina Branch of the Mercer County Library.

Guest Column from State Representative Buchy

The Future of Ohio Agriculture

Last month, thousands of Ohioans from across the state flocked to their annual county fairs and the Ohio State Fair to showcase the best in agriculture. These events provide a wonderful opportunity for our youth to be involved in Ohio’s strongest industry, and to gain valuable experience for their futures. From our county fairs all the way to Columbus, the youth of House District 84 have shown great promise and represented our home outstandingly.

Ohio is a very unique state, in that it has an extremely diverse economy. Manufacturing, commerce, small business, and, yes, agriculture, have all thrived under Republican leadership in recent years. Agriculture, in particular, has even been touted as “Ohio’s strongest industry” by Governor Kasich, and, he’s quite right. When taking into account every facet of the industry, from farm to table, it contributes over $98 billion to Ohio’s economy each year, employing 1 out of every 7 Ohioans. As a state legislator, I am proud to represent communities that make this a reality through hard work and dedication to the trade each and every day.

However, we must not forget in our successes the importance of continuing this trend and training up the next generation to take the reins. It is for this reason that it is vital for our youth to be involved in agriculture, through clubs like 4-H and FFA, and events like the county and state fair. In a world where college is considered necessary for success, and more and more students pursue white-collar careers, we must not miss the opportunity to pass agriculture, as a trade, on to our children from a young age. Without these kids, who will farm for the next generation?

As I mentioned earlier in this article, House District 84 is home to many boys and girls who have set a wonderful example of this “passing of the torch”. Our own Mary Buehler of Anna was announced as President of the Ohio FFA earlier this year. Dozens of kids of all ages competed at the state fair last month, bringing home numerous honors and proudly representing our home and five students from around the region were Grand Champions in this year’s Sale of Champions. Our county fairs each year are host to even more competitors who have embraced agriculture and dedicated themselves to learning these valuable skills.

These students represent the best of House District 84, and they and their parents should be very proud of all of their accomplishments. As their Representative, I know I am proud of all of the contributions they make to our communities, and the potential they have to continue making those contributions for years to come. As they shape the future of agriculture in our state, they both need and deserve our utmost support.

Please give me your opinion on this topic and others in the news this month by completing an online survey at tinyurl.com/buchyAugust2016.

 
September 24-25, 2016
 

Congratulations to the Homecoming Court and Queen Mikaylee Heindel and the Panther Football Team – Victorious on Friday, September 23, 2016

Thank you to Nikki Fox for sharing these pictures!

Left to right, Freshman Alexis Cairns, Senior Alisa Gray,        Queen Mikaylee Heindel, Senior Sydney Swygart, Sophomore Grace Swander, Junior Bailey Bates.

Click here for the Homecoming Program Details!

Parkway beat the New Bremen Cardinals 41-10

Celina Bank Robbed on Friday, September 23, 2016 – Suspect at Large

Friday at about 1:00 PM a man entered the 2nd National Bank at 800 N. Main St., Celina announcing a robbery and demanding cash.  The man did obtain an undetermined amount of cash and fled the scene.  The investigation is currently ongoing.

The suspect is described as white, male, brown hair, stubble on his face, about 6’00” tall with a thin to medium build.  He was wearing jeans, and a striped long sleeve hooded shirt.  Please see the included photo.

Anyone with any information concerning the robbery or suspect please call the Celina Police Department at 419-586-2345.

Golf Action Pictures from the Panther Fall 2016 Season Shared by Nikki Fox - http://www.nfoxphoto.com/album-2

Click on smaller thumbnail pictures below to enlarge them.

Mercer Health Welcomes Dr. Alyssa Tobe

Mercer Health welcomes Dr. Alyssa Tobe.  Dr. Tobe specializes in managing the care of patients while they are in the hospital.  Dr. Tobe, a native of Ft. Recovery, lives in Coldwater with her husband Greg Bruns.  For more information, please call Mindy Kremer at 419-678-5613.

Football Action Pictures from the Panther Fall 2016 Season Shared by Nikki Fox - http://www.nfoxphoto.com/album-2
Click on smaller thumbnail pictures below to enlarge them.

Volleyball Action Pictures from the Panther Fall 2016 Season Shared by Nikki Fox - http://www.nfoxphoto.com/album-2
Click on smaller thumbnail pictures below to enlarge them.

 
September 23, 2016
 

Parkway Football Concession Stand Workers Reminded
September 23, 2016 - versus New Bremen Homecoming
Yulanda Wolfe; Jeremy and Amy Carlson; Matt and Amy Denney; Darren and Diane Poppe; Todd and Shelie Gaerke; Jami Renner; Doug and Lynn Hughes; John and Donna Felver; Mark and Kelly Mihm; Dan and Debra Kirby

Arrive by 6 PM. If you can't work, arrange for someone else to cover for you.

Call Heather Barker for information at 419-305-1345.

 
September 22, 2016
 

Parkway Schools exceeded expectations in student growth during the 2015 Statewide testing year. Parkway will be awarded the 2015 Elementary Momentum Award on October 20 at 5:50 at Vantage Schools. They were one of only 53 elementary schools state-wide to receive Straight A's on the report card.

Ohio Middle School Level Association also will award the Parkway Middle School with the Exemplery Practices Award for their Class Dojo program. That award will be presented to Principal Brian Woods on October 27 at at a Conference in Cincinnati.

 
September 20-21, 2016
 

 Parkway Homecoming Festivities

The Parkway High School Student Council, Faculty, Staff, and students would like to invite you to our Homecoming Celebration at the Parkway vs. New Bremen Football game on Friday night September 23rd.  Stick around for the Powder-Puff game immediately following to see if this year’s Junior class can defend its title.  Students have enjoyed a spirit week to prepare for the crowning of our 2016 Fall Homecoming queen.  Our Senior Homecoming attendants are Miss Mikaylee Heindel, Miss Sydney Swygart, and Miss Alisa Gray.  Freshman attendant is Miss Alexis Cairns.  Sophomore attendant is Miss Grace Swander.  Junior attendant is Miss Bailey Bates.  These ladies will be representing our school on Friday and supporting our Panthers.  We hope that you will join us as the 2015 Fall Homecoming Queen Miss Samantha Wehe will return to crown our new Queen.  Come out and show your Panther Pride as the Panthers battle the Cardinals at 7:30pm.  The Homecoming parade will start at 6:45pm from Parkway High School to the football field for the Pregame show at 7:00pm.  The Lady Panther Homecoming attendants would like to thank community members for furnishing convertibles for the festivities.  We hope that you will join our celebration.  Proud to be a Panther!!

Queen Candidates in front row – Mikaylee Heindel, Sydney Swygart, Alisa Gray, Attendents Back from left Freshman Alexis Cairns, Sophomore Grace Swander, and Junior Bailey Bates

Drug Arrests Made

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports drug related arrests.  On Monday September 19, 2016, Deputies with the Grand Lake Task Force developed information of drug activity at an address on Tama Road.  Deputies prepared, applied for, and were granted a search warrant for the address of 4729 Tama Road.  Upon deputies arrival a male was observed in the back yard of the residence.  The male refused orders from deputies and took off running into a bean field, and was observed throwing something further into the bean field that he had removed from his pocket.  The male later identified as Andrew A. Leininger, age 31 was taken into custody without further incident.  Mercer County Sheriff’s Office  K-9 Franko was deployed into the bean field to search for the item thrown.  The item recovered was a pill bottle containing suspected ecstasy.  Also arrested was Leininger’s wife Ashely M. Leininger, age 33. 

Deputies executed the search warrant and recovered the following items:

·         $8,000.00 in cash

·         Over 900 “hits” doses of LSD, commonly known as acid.  The estimated street value of the LSD is over $9,000.00

·         Less than an ounce of raw marijuana

·         Drug paraphernalia

·         DABS (DABS is concentrated cannabis that is made by extracting THC by using a solvent like butane.  The result is a sticky type oil also referred to as “Wax, Shatter, Budder, and or butane hash oil”)

Andrew A. Leininger is currently being held for obstruction and resisting arrest, and his bond was set at $100,000.00.

Ashley M. Leininger is currently being held for possession of schedule I or II drugs, and her bond was set at $100,000.00

The case will be forwarded to the Mercer County Prosecutor for review for additional charges.  

Drug Related Arrests

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports drug related arrests.  Two individuals were arrested on indictments as a result of an investigation by the Grand Lake Drug Task Force.  Both subjects were taken into custody by St. Mary’s Police after a traffic stop on Monday evening September 19, 2016.

Arrested:

Kyle E. Dunlap, age 24, 408 Webb Street, St Mary’s, Ohio.  Arrested on indictment for one count of Illegal Assembly of Chemicals for Manufacturing of drugs (Methamphetamine), a felony of the third degree.

Brianne N. Wilson, age 22, 219 West Wayne Street, Celina, Ohio.  Arrested on indictment for one count of Illegal Assembly of Chemicals for Manufacturing of drugs (Methamphetamine), a felony of the third degree.

Both individuals are being held in the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility.

Photo Caption: The Pythian Sisters gathered for their post card photograph at Rockford.  Who can solve this History Mystery of identification of the Pythian Sisters’ Members, and the site?

OUR OLD BOOKCASE

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

“The Pythian Sisters,” is the title on the front of this post card, sent to me by Charlyn Stammen from Coldwater.  She wrote, “I found this postcard in a piece of furniture I bought in Rockford, some time ago.” The post card was addressed to Mr. Grant Coats, % Still Rock Spa, Waukesha, Wisconsin and was postmarked from Rockford, February 2, 1915. 

The name, “Still Rock Spa,” caught my attention, and I went to the internet for information about Waukesha.  “Saratoga of the West,” was the marketing phrase Waukesha citizens used, in the late 1800’s. The many mineral springs were thought to cure a variety of ailments, including depression and diabetes.  At that time, newspapers announced that twenty-five trainloads of people arrived daily to visit the Spas.  For historical research, John Schoenknecht wrote “The Great Waukesha Springs Era:  1868-1918.”

Apparently, Grant Coats was employed at the Still Rock Spa, at Waukesha, or he was enjoying a summer vacation there.  I could not read the signature of the person sending the post card.  However, Grant Coats must have had relatives at Rockford, because the writer commented, “I would send you these familiar faces because the dogs are there.”  The Collie in the photograph is surrounded by baskets.  Were the baskets were filled with the Collie’s puppies?

The 1907 “History of Mercer County Ohio,” edited by Hon. S.S. Scranton, wrote about Rockford’s fraternal societies, which included the Knights of Pythias.  “Shane Lodge,K. of P., was organized May 8, 1898.  The first officers were J.J. McLaughlin, C.C.; W.F. Penn, V.C.; and Leroy Pence, K. of R. & S.”

Martha Baltzell, “The Rockford Press,” wrote the “Souvenir Journal,” for Rockford’s Sesquicentennial celebration, 1820-1970.  On page 22, she wrote, “Shanes Lodge No. 293 Knights of Pythias chartered May 8, 1888, with 32 members and two card members. They met in Castle Hall.  The first C.C. was J. J. McLaughlin.  The Pythian Sisters disbanded and the Temple’s Property was sold in 1925.”

Knights of Pythias is an international, non-sectarian fraternal organization which engages in many benevolent activities.  The Knights of Pythias was the first fraternal organization to receive a Charter under an act of the United States Congress. It was founded by Justus H. Rathbone, who had been inspired by a play by the Irish poet John Banim about the legend of Damon and Pythias.  The Fraternal Order ofKnights of Pythias Members are dedicated to the cause of Universal Peace Through Understanding.

The Order of Pythian Sisters, the independent auxiliary of the Knights of Pythias, was organized at Warsaw, Indiana on October 22-23, 1888 by a Knight, Joseph Addison Hill.  Mr. Hill prepared the ritualistic forms, the ceremonies and emblems of the Order.  The principles of Purity, Love, and Fidelity provided a pattern for a good and meaningful way of life, the aim and object of the Pythian Sisters.

The theme of “Universal Peace through Understanding,” is a theme to many cultures of the world, including our Country.  This theme is repeated throughout fraternal organizations, social organizations, and religious organizations.  Perhaps, some communities in the world would benefit by hosting the Knights of Pythias.  How many thousands of years have gone by, whereby citizens have prayed for Universal Peace through Understanding?  Remember President Woodrow Wilson, and World War I, and the term “War to end all Wars,” in 1914?  What happened?  Have enemies taken advantage of the good will of our United States Citizens for over the two centuries of our existence?  Can our U.S. A. citizens have peace and prevent war on this planet?  Is Universal Peace through Understanding possible?

 
September 19, 2016
 

Parkway Schools are on a 2 hour delay due to fog for Monday, September 19, 2016

 
September 17-18, 2016
 

Dr. Jay Albayyari, Dean, also named Chief Administrative Officer at Lake Campus

CELINA, OH -  Wright State University announced on Friday that Dr. Jay Albayyari, Dean of the Lake Campus, has been named Dean and Chief Administrator Officer (CAO) of the Celina campus. 

“This recognizes the scope of responsibilities of Lake Campus leadership, which in addition to the academic mission includes oversight of a campus, its facilities, and the supporting personnel,” said Dr. Tom Sudkamp, Provost and Vice President for Curriculum and Instruction at Wright State University.

“As the Dean and CAO of the Lake Campus, I am committed to continuing our mission to provide educational access to the communities we serve. We are excited about the creation of the Agriculture Education and Water Quality Research building, and the newest student housing villa, with construction of both set to begin in the upcoming weeks,” said Dr. Albayyari.

Provost Sudkamp also congratulated Dr. Albayyari and the Lake Campus team on a 14% enrollment increase for Fall 2016, where headcount stands at 1,336 students.

Turkey Shoot

The Willshire Sportsman’s Club will be holding a Turkey Shoot on Sunday October 9, 2016 starting at noon. It will be held on the club grounds located 2 miles east of Willshire, OH on St. Rte. 81.

Only 12 gauge shotguns will be permitted and shell will be furnished. Youth shoots for children, aged 16 and under will be held. Only 20 gauge shotguns will be permitted for the youth shoots and shells will be furnished.

A lunch stand will be available.

Public is welcome.

PUBLIC NOTICE – Bridge Closing

The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Denny Road between Celina-Mendon Road and Rice Road in Center Township for a culvert replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on September 20, 2016 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 3-4 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

COUNTY REMINDER on Signs Posted  ~ Ohio Law prohibits signs on trees and poles

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

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

Two Exchange Students Attend Parkway and Visited the Chamber of Commerce
Photo by Curtis Hamrick

The Rockford Chamber welcomes the Parkway Exchange Students for the
2016/17 School year.   Pictured left to right:
Jamie Green - Chamber Vice President, Nancy Leighner - Member,
Agata Sapiezynska of Poland and Ellen Slatosch of Germany, and
Lisa Kuhn - Chamber Treasurer.

Parkway Boys Golf at Minster
By Coach Joe Falk
At Arrowhead Golf Course in Minster (par 36) the Panthers Boys Golf team lost a fairly close match to Minster, 184-177. Leading the scoring for the Panthers was Ashton Hamrick with a 43 followed by Dave Gause with a 44. Mason Baxter shot a 48 and Jack Wehe a 49. Both were playing the course for the first time. Cole Schoenleben shot a 50 and Andy Metz a 61 for Parkway as well. Parkway finishes the MAC regular season at 4-5. Match medalist was Adam Knapke with a 42.

Minster Scores: Jordan Brackman-43; Ben Stubbs-44; Adam Knapke-42; Logan Lazier-51; Grant Koenig-48; Grant Voisard-52.

Parkway Boys Golf at St. Henry
By Coach Joe Falk

At Mercer County Elks Golf Course (par 36) the Parkway Boys golf team lost to a very good St. Henry squad by the score of 172-191. Match medalist was Kyle Naumann of St. Henry with a 37. Leading the way for the Panthers was Mason Baxter with a 43. Ashton Hamrick contributed a 48 and Cole Schoenleben and Jack Wehe finished out the scoring for Parkway with a pair of 50s. Dave Gause shot a 52 and Duncan Morton scored a 59 on the day. Parkway is now 4-4 in the MAC.

St. Henry Scores: Kyle Naumann- 37; Rylee Deitsch- 46; Seth King- 50; Ryan Grieshop- 47; Jack Romer- 47; Lucas Grieshop- 42

Parkway Girls Golf at Minster
by Coach Teri Samples

Minster 187     Parkway 221

The Minster girls golf team remains undefeated in MAC play by defeating Parkway 187-221.  Sarah Huwer earned medalist for Minster with a 45 .  Taylor Homan shot a 46 with both Lisa Berges and Hannah Koenig carding 48's.

Parkway was led by Haylee Stukey's 49, Mecaylah Hesse added a 52, Lauren Henderson had a 59, and Maggie Houts rounded out the scoring with a 61.

Parkway Girls Golf at St. Henry
by Coach Teri Samples

St. Henry 199       Parkway 220

St. Henry picked up the MAC win over Parkway with Carina Clune earning medalist with a 46, follwed by Kaitlyn Clune who had a 48, Allyson Hemmelgarn with a 52 and Karlee Staugler had a 53.

Parkway was led by Haylee Stukey's 50, Autumn Ellis had a 55, Mecaylah Hesse had a 56, and Lauren Henderson rounded out the scoring with a 59.

Shanes Park Beautification Society
August consisted of trimming and keeping the flowers weeded.  Thank you to
Donna Riley, Marlene Roebuck, Irene Schmidt and Joyce Emans for continuing to
help with the flowers this very hot summer !

Special Thanks to Jonathan & Justin Felver for trimming dead limbs and bushes
at the gazebo and helping their grandma with some other needed work at the
park.

** Please note that we will begin decorating for Christmas at the Park on 
Saturday - October 15th at 10 am - noon and will continue decorating each
Saturday until the event on Sunday - November 27th.  MANY VOLUNTEERS
ARE NEEDED.


 

Calvary Preschool to Host 50 Year  Open House

Calvary Preschool will be celebrating 50 years with an open house on Sunday October 9 from 2:00-4:00 pm in the Fellowship Hall of Calvary Evangelical Church, 10686 Van Wert Decatur Road.  The preschool cordially invites former staff and students, along with their families to attend the celebration.  Calvary Preschool is proud of the 50 years of quality preschool education in the Van Wert community.  The preschool began with a vision by several members of Calvary Evangelical United Brethren Church in 1966 and continues to live out that vision with a commitment to help children develop emotionally, intellectually and spiritually.  Current teachers are Issa Ickes, Julie Stewart and Vicki Chavarria.  The administrator is Marilyn Agler.  Over 60 people have been involved in teaching at Calvary and 8 directors have served during the 50-year history of the preschool.

 
September 15 - 16, 2016
 

Free Community Class at Rockford Carnegie Library

SATURDAY, September 17, 2016  | Essential Oil Education Community Class

Essential oils have been around for thousands of years and are starting to make their way back into more and more homes. Why? Because most conventional products that are available to us today are filled with chemicals and toxic fillers. They can be very disruptive to our body systems and overall health. Essential oils are providing safe and effective ways to care for and support our family’s health naturally, to DIY soaps & chemical free cleaners, to pet health, etc., and are saving family’s money along the way. Empower yourself to take control of your home and wellness.

Please join us this coming Saturday, the 17th, from 2-4pm, at the Rockford Carnegie Library (basement meeting room) to discover the benefits you can receive from incorporating pure therapeutic grade essential oils into your life. There will be a free gift for anyone who registers and attends to learn more. Please register to ashleydubry@icloud.com or 419-605-8848. There will also be lots of oils to test out, smell, discover, and explore! We can’t wait to see you!! You can also find more on Ashley’s Instagram page at instagram.com/droppermom. If you can’t make the event, make sure to contact Ashley for help and information.

Coach Wellman Speaks of the Football Program at Meet the Coach Night
On September 12, 2016, Shanes Lodge #377 Free and Accepted Masons of Ohio hosted a "Meet the Coach" party to introduce Mr. Shane Wellman, recently hired head football coach for Parkway Local Schools, Rockford, OH. 

Parkway District Fraternal Order of Eagles, Lions Clubs, and Sons of the American Legion were also invited to the party as part of a "Friendship Night" sponsored by Shanes Lodge for all service and fraternal organizations in the community. 

Coach Wellman spoke about his mission and goals for the team, both short and long term. He emphasized that coaches, players, families, and all community members must continually build up their characters and set great examples for others to see. Character, football fundamentals, and strength training are the keys to Parkway Football future successes, both on the gridiron and off. Afterwards, the coach and attendees enjoyed an evening of fellowship, with great tasting pizza supplied by the Rockford Carry Out and home made Ice Cream provided by Shanes Lodge. Shanes Lodge Master Terry Krogman would like to thank the Rockford Eagles Lodge for the use of their fellowship hall, and all who came to this event. And, we all want to express our best wishes and "good luck" to Coach Wellman, his staff, and all the players on the 2016 Parkway Football Team. "GO PANTHERS"!!!

Photo Caption L to R: Terry Krogman, Randy Rumple, Shanes Lodge #377; Head Coach Shane Wellman; Loren Shindeldecker, Dennis Hecht, Rockford Lions Club

Bid on OSU Football Game Tickets
The Van Wert County 4-H Council is offering pairs of Ohio State University home game football tickets. All seven (7) home games are up for bid, with minimum bids set for each game as ticket prices vary for each game in cost.

To participate in this fund raiser you must choose one of the following steps:

1) Send your sealed bid to the Van Wert County Extension Office % 4-H Council Fund Raiser, 1055 S. Washington St, Van Wert, OH, 4589

2) Fax your bid to 419-238-3276

3) Email Heather Gottke at gottke.4@osu.edu. Your bid must be received by the deadlines as posted below no later than 4:00pm.

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

The Rockford Chamber is working on Christmas at the Park to be held on Sunday, November 27th at 7 pm.   We are looking for people to share their musical talents during the event.  If you are interested in participating, please contact the Rockford Village office at 419-363-3032 ext 1 or by email to lisa.kuhn@rockfordohio.org.

Fall Fest Coming to Otterbein Senior Lifestyle Choices

The annual Fall Fest at Otterbein Senior Lifestyle Choices in St. Marys is coming on Saturday, October 8^th,  11 am to 2 pm in the Meyer Community Room.

There will be: OPEN HOUSES; ARTS & CRAFTS; PUMPKIN PAINTING; HORSE DRAWN CARRIGE RIDES; APPLE PRESS DEMONSTRATIONS; COMPLIMENTARY LUNCH; POPCORN; DOOR PRIZES; and ENTERTAINMENT BY “THE MULE SKINNER BAND”
For more information call 419.394.6184 .

Parkway Football Concession Stand Workers Reminded
September 16, 2016 - versus St. Henry
Greg and Tabitha Bolton; Brent and Vivian Bixler; Abbey Everett; Kendra Case; Brent and Michelle Agler; James and Kristi Harshman; Nicole Burden; Donna and Larry Gibson; Carrie Heck; Elizabeth Browning; and Sue Fox

Arrive by 6 PM. If you can't work, arrange for someone else to cover for you.

Call Heather Barker for information at 419-305-1345.

 
September 13-14, 2016
 

Lots for Soldiers Ground Breaking Held in Rockford on Thursday, September 8. 

Left to right are: Greg Ponstler - Rockford Council, Francis Schaffner - American Legion, John Dooley - Rockford Council, Amy Joseph - Rockford Mayor, Homer Burnett, Founder of Lots for Soldiers, Logan - Burnett grandson, and Mona Thompson - former lot owner.

Thank you to Claire Giesige for sharing the picture.

Shanes Crossing Historical to Meet – New Date and Time!

The next meeting of the Shanes Crossing Historical Society will be held on
MONDAY, September 19th at 7 pm. at the museum on East Columbia Street 
in Rockford.  The program will be a presentation of the "Pictorial History of 
Rockford'.  The public is invited to the program.  ** Please note -- new day
of the week for meetings and time.

PARKWAY LOCAL BOARD Of EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING

Planned for September 13, 2016

6:30 P.M.

Parkway Schools Community Room, Rockford, OH

Click here for the agenda by Sally Cox

 
September 12, 2016
 

Superintendent Greg Puthoff Shares Local Control Info on September 9, 2016

Contact:         Shelly Vaughn, Mercer County ESC Superintendent

            Dr. Ken Schmiesing, Celina City Schools Superintendent

            Jason Wood, Coldwater Exempted Village Schools Superintendent

            Justin Firks, Fort Recovery Local Schools Superintendent

            Mike Pohlman, Marion Local Schools Superintendent

            Greg Puthoff, Parkway Local Schools Superintendent

            Julie Garke, St. Henry Local Schools Superintendent            

REDUCE STUDENT TESTING – Mercer County School officials want Ohio to follow the recommendations of Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) and have joined a more than 40-member strong Northwest/West Central School Advocacy Network in calling for a new lesson plan for Ohio students – fewer assessments.

It is a call – again – for more local control. Mercer County school districts are joining other area districts that are members of the Northwest/West Central Ohio Public School Advocacy Network (NWCOPSAN) in voicing concern that state regulations continue to provide for extensive overreach in testing, and the districts are sending a strong message to state legislators regarding implementation of the recent Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA): Let our teachers teach!

According to the U.S. Department of Education, ESSA – the federal education act that replaced No Child Left Behind in December 2015 – builds on key areas of progress in recent years, made possible by the efforts of educators, communities, parents, and students across the country. In practice ESSA was established in part to allow for more state-driven measures on student performance targets and school ratings, with state-developed identification and intervention for district accountability.

Our hope that the establishment of ESSA and removal of federal one-size-fits-all mandates would provide our districts the opportunity to re-establish more local control

Our reality is a continued reduction in classroom instruction time due to additional testing the state is mandating – beyond the federal minimum requirements

Our request is that state legislators reduce testing requirements

Currently the federal testing requirements include reading and math in grades 3-8 and one high school test. The state of Ohio expands on those minimum requirements to include testing in reading, math, science and social studies in grades 5-8, and multiple end-of-course exams for high school.

Our message is simple – reduce testing to the federal minimum requirements

Let our teachers teach; let our children learn; give back local control to our Boards of Education

Mercer County school districts want to ensure our community’s voice is heard regarding Ohio’s implementation of ESSA. Mercer County school officials are attending stakeholder meetings around the state and we encourage parents and community members to become involved. The Ohio Department of Education will be hosting several ESSA stakeholder meetings –

The Toledo Club Centennial Room, 1st Floor 235 14th St. Toledo, OH  43604 on Thursday, September 15 from 6 pm to 8 pm. Register at:  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/toledo-essa-stakeholder-meeting-registration-26754372047

Cincinnati-Hamilton County Community Action Agency, 1740 Langdon Farm Road  Cincinnati, OH on Thursday, Sept. 29 from 5:30pm to 7:30 pm. Register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cincinnati-essa-stakeholder-meeting-registration-26762080102

If you are unable to attend, feel free to contact your district superintendent or Shelly Vaughn at the Mercer County Educational Service Center for more information about how you can help to reduce testing for our students.

We are proud of the work we do as directed by our local Boards of Education in the areas of academics, arts, student leadership and activities, fiscal stewardship, student services and parent and community involvement. Mercer County school districts worked together to present this story of student success in our districts in the Measures that Matter publication last spring. (http://www.tristar.graphics/2016-mtm#measures-that-matter-cover)

About NWCOPSAN

The more than 40-district strong Northwest/West Central Ohio Public School Advocacy Network (NWCOPSAN) was developed in 2015 to build a collective voice of school districts advocating for students with lawmakers in Columbus and Washington D.C. and to build a better communication link between our communities and our lawmakers.

Bump Clinic to Open on September 14th at Van Wert Health Center

Van Wert, Ohio – Van Wert County Hospital will offer the “Bump Clinic,” a sports medicine walk-in clinic open every Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m., beginning September 14th.  The Bump Clinic is at a NEW location this year at the Van Wert Health Center and is available to athletes of all ages.  Athletes under 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.  Patients at the Bump Clinic will be evaluated by an experienced physical therapist and receive the latest treatment options – all onsite at Van Wert Health Center, with no appointment needed.  

“We wanted to offer a convenient service to athletes of all ages in our community – from young kids participating in dance, to high school football players, to adult athletes,” said Debby Compton, Director of Physical Rehabilitation at Van Wert County Hospital.  “Van Wert is such an active community and we are thrilled to help athletes of all ages get the care they need so they can recover faster.”

The Bump Clinic is located at the Van Wert Health Center at 140 Fox Road, Suite 101, Van Wert, OH 45891 (use Door #3). 

Parkway Class of 1991 Planning 25^th Reunion on September 17th
The Parkway Class of 1991  25th class reunion will be held on Saturday, Sept 17th at Hillside B&B, starting around 5:00pm, we have catering from The Old Arcana (thanks Misty Fisher for organizing) and BYOB. 

There will be non-alcoholic beverages provided (water, pop, etc.) but please BYOB for anything else. Cost per person for the room rental and food will be $20/person - and you can pay Chad Frahm that night.

Also, the 1991 state baseball champs are being honored at the football game on Friday nightSeptember 16th. Please help get the word out to those in our class, and also those from other classes and coaches that were on the team.

Looking forward to seeing everyone on the 17th. 

Out of the Darkness Community Walk - October 15th
at the Mercer County Fairgrounds. Registration 9 AM, Opening Ceremony 10, Walk at 10:15

Register at www.outofthedarkness.org

ROCKFORD COMMUNITY FALL YARD SALE - All proceeds to the Lots for Soldiers Project in Rockford!

SAVE THE DATE, CLEAN OUT YOUR CLOSETS, ATTICS, BASEMENTS AND GARAGES!! 

Sept 23/24 2016

Registration $10 (pays for advertising and spot on the map) 

Deadline for registration is NO LATER than Sunday September 18th 9pm
NO entries added to map without payment or if submitted after 9/18
To REGISTER- Submit by mail or in person... your name, address and description to: 

Fall yard sales 
401 W. Columbia 
Rockford Oh 45882
Contacts...
Amy Joseph 419.953.7874

Amy Noll 419.953.8761

Stateline Writers Club

On August 20 members of the Stateline Writers Club elected new officers:  Beth Keuneke, president; Carol Zender, vice president; Katie Flintrop, treasurer; and Barbara Moore, secretary. The next meeting of the club will be held at the Mercer County District Library on September 17 at 10 a.m.  Members are asked to write and share a composition on the topic of "making trouble."  If time permits, a short language arts lesson will follow.  The public is invited to attend.

 
September 10-11, 2016
 

15th Anniversary of 9/11
Mourners gather at three sites hit by terrorists: New York City, Washington, DC
and Shanksville, PA to Remember

Locally flags flew at half staff and churches remembered in their morning services.

 
September 9, 2016
 

Parkway High School Volleyball Practice will be 2-4 PM today.

Parkway High School Cross Country will practice at 3 PM today and a pasta dinner will follow.

Parkway Girls Golf will practice 3-4:30 PM today and the Parkway Boys Gold practice will be 3:30 -4:45 today.

Parkway High School Football Players should report to the school today at 4 PM.

The congregation invites you to Autumn Fest at St. Paul's United Church of Christ, 1538 Oregon Road,  Rockford for Fun, Food, and Fellowship as they raise money for CALL Ministries for the Celina and Parkway Back-Pack Programs. The women of the church will be serving up soup, sandwiches, desserts and beverages on Sunday, October 9 at 4:30 PM to be followed by an auction at 5:30 with crafts, baked good & other homemade items. Tom Robbins and D. D. Strickler will be calling the bids!

Parkway is now closed due to fog for Friday, September 9, 2016

Parkway is on a 2 hour delay due to fog for Friday, September 9, 2016

Thank you to Henkle Insurance for this update and being the Parkway Independent Weather Sponsors!

Parkway Music Boosters Annual Sub Sale Fundraiser Is Announced

The Parkway Music Booster Club today announced details for the Annual Sub Sale Fundraiser. This year’s fundraiser sale dates will run September 9-23, 2016.

Two different sub options will be made available for purchase. Subs include Turkey with Cheese [Honey Smoked Turkey, American and Swiss cheese] or a Cold Cut Combo, which includes pepperoni, ham, bologna, American and Swiss cheese.

Orders will be accepted by any participating Parkway band or choir student. Individuals may also mail in orders to: Parkway Music Boosters, P.O. Box 451, Rockford, Ohio 45882. All orders must be paid for at the time an order is placed.
Click the link for pricing. Mail order forms may be downloaded and printed by visiting http://tinyurl.com/musicsubs2016.

Girls Golf at Parkway by Coach Teri Samples

New Bremen 209    Parkway 225

New Bremen defeated Parkway in MAC action at Arrowhead.  New Bremen's Amy Balster was medalist with a 49, Sarah Parker had a 51, Caylie Hall a 54 and Marcella Travis added a 55.

Haylee Stukey led Parkway with a 52.  A 57 was shot by Lauren Henderson.  Mecaylah Hesse and Autumn Ellis each had 58's to round out the scoring.

Parkway Boys Golf Team Defeats New Bremen

By Coach Joe Falk
In their best match of the season, the Parkway Boys Golf team defeated New Bremen by a score of 163-194 at Deerfield Golf Course (par 36). Medalist for Parkway was Mason Baxter with a season best 37. Cole Schoenleben shot a 42 and both Dave Gause and Ashton Hamrick contributed their season's best rounds with matching 42s. Jack Wehe shot a 50 and Andy Metz a 58 for the Panthers as well. Parkway is now 4-3 in the MAC.

New Bremen Scores: Cole Hemmelgarn-47; Derek Bergman-49; Ezra Ferguson-46; Tyler Lichleiter-52; Devon Thieman-61; Xander Stephens-64.

Parkway JV scores-

Duncan Morton -48, Alex Altenbach-56, Jared Gibson-70, Trevor Barker-70

TAKE A STAND TOO

The S.T.O.P. group is taking a S.T.A.N.D. We are Standing Together Against Negative Decisions (Including Underage Drinking, Drug Use, Peer Pressure, Bullying, and Suicide.)

Interested in taking a STAND too? Join us for the next Mercer County S.T.O.P.

(Students Teaching Others Prevention) gathering!

2016 meetings:

Monday, September 12th 7:30-9 pm at *Coldwater Memorial Park shelter house behind the pool...weather permitting) *if inclement weather, will be held at Hot Brass Personal Defense (123 S. Main Street, Celina)-west side of street, across from Dawg Town

Monday, October 10th 7:30-9 pm in Coldwater High School’s CAV room; (enter HS to the right of big mural on N. 2nd Street/St. Rt. 118) and follow the signs

Monday, November, 14th 7:30-9 pm (probably same location as October’s meeting, but location may change)

Monday, December 12th 7:30-9 pm (probably same location as October’s meeting, but location may change)

THIS IS A YOUTH-LED (adult-guided) GROUP again this year!!! Officers have been elected and are excited to help lead!

Who: All Mercer County High School Students who have stayed alcohol, tobacco, and drug free or want to be encouraged to “start over” if you’ve “messed up” and need the positive support to do so! The members of the S.T.O.P. group also have the opportunity to make a positive impact in their school and community and also be youth leaders for the S.T.A.R. (Students Teaching About Resistance) retreat for middle school students.

For questions or info on future meetings (held every month): Laura Sanford, Prevention Coordinator at Foundations in Celina; lauras@foundationsbhs.org or 419-584-1000

Join “Mercer County S.T.O.P. (Students Teaching Others Prevention)” on Facebook and get all the latest meeting and event news! https://www.facebook.com/groups/MCSTOP/

Follow the STOP group and prevention on Instagram laura.foundations

 “Mercer and Auglaize Drug Prevention” on facebook! Tell your friends and family; it takes a community to spread alcohol/drug awareness and prevent substance abuse and addiction!!!

Leadership Class Open for Nominations

The Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for our 21st Annual Leadership Van Wert County Class.

Visionary companies understand the pivotal importance of developing strong leaders not only for their companies, but also for their community. That is the mission of the Leadership Van Wert County Program. Please consider nominating one of your employees or yourself to join other area leaders who have experienced the best of the best leadership development in the greater Van Wert area.

The attached nomination form is due to the Chamber by Wednesday, September 14. An application will be mailed to the nominee once we receive the nomination form. Please contact the Chamber with further questions.

 
September 8, 2016
 

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy
John Glenn Inspires Generations to Dream Big

I still remember the day that John Glenn made that historic flight to orbit the earth. I was twenty two at the time and was glued to my television, watching America make history. It was unbelievable and something no one thought was possible. John Glenn was more than an astronaut that day, he was a household name. 

John Glenn, born and raised in Ohio, made the first orbital flight of the earth, aboard the Space Shuttle Mercury-Atlas 6 “Friendship 7”, on February 20, 1962. On this historic day, he inspired millions of Americans by piloting the spacecraft as it orbited the earth three times in nearly five hours, a feat which eventually earned him the NASA Distinguished Service Medal.

Following his historical space flight, Glenn ran to represent Ohio in the U.S. Senate and won on his third attempt. He was actively involved in weapons control and government affairs during his four terms in Congress. He also was chairman of the Senate Government Affairs Committee, and served on the Special Committee on Aging and the Foreign Relations and Armed Services committees.

Upon retirement from the Senate, Glenn embarked on his last mission into space, a part of the Space Shuttle Discovery Crew, and became the oldest human to go into space.

John Glenn has had numerous accomplishments and holds a special place in the hearts of many around Ohio and the nation. He has helped bring a glimpse of our universe into our living rooms, and has impacted the lives and dreams of many while doing so.

From his service in the U.S. military, to his dedication to space exploration and his commitment to representing Ohioans in Washington, D.C., John Glenn has certainly made a lasting legacy. To honor this legacy, the Ohio House recently voted to rename Port Columbus International Airport after one of the most famous pioneers of flight. Glenn has inspired Ohioans of every age and I was proud to support the effort to name John Glenn International Airport to celebrate his many endeavors throughout his life.

John Glenn has always inspired me to reach for the big things in life. Hard work is the foundation that John Glenn built his life around and it is ultimately what led him to accomplish his dreams. Glenn continues to be a testament that anybody can achieve greatness and leave their mark on the world if they work hard and believe in themselves.

 
September 6-7, 2016
 

Job Fair Coming to Smith Brothers Furniture in Berne, IN

Click here for the details

Lots for Soldiers to Host Shovel Turning

Public invited

Work will soon begin on the house at the Rockford Lots for Soldiers location. To celebrate this exciting time, there will be a shovel turning and prayer for worker safety held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 8. The public is encouraged to join us at the Holly Lane lot near Shane’s Park in Rockford.

Groundbreaking will take place the week of Sept. 12. There are many ways to get involved in this special project for a deserving veteran. To learn more, call 419-586-5058 or visit lotsforsoldiers.com.

Lots for Soldiers is a nonprofit organization based in Celina, Ohio. It was founded in 2014 to honor and thank those who have served in the United States military. Our mission is to donate residential lots and then to engage the local community in constructing a new home at an affordable cost.

Genealogists to Meet

The next meeting of the Mercer County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society is Sunday September 11 at 2:00.  The speaker will be Sam Schmitz.  Schmitz is an experinced genealoist with a wide range of expertise. he will be explaining how to translate old records. If you have questions, he will try to answer and assist his listeners.  The meeting is held at the Richardson Bretx Building at 119 east Fulton street in Celina. The meeting is free and the public is welcome.  

Boys Golf at Versailles Invitational
by Coach Joe Falk

Parkway Boys Golf team competed at the Versailles Invitational at Stillwater Valley Golf Club (par 72). Parkway came in 13th place out of 19 teams that participated. Dave Gause was low Panther with a score of 95. Cole Schoenleben and Mason Baxter both shot 97s in the effort for Parkway. Jack Wehe finished out the scoring for the Black and Gold with a score of 101. Ashton Hamrick shot a 105 and Duncan Morton a 135 as well.

Students Train as Babysitters

Eleven students recently successfully completed Mercer Health’s babysitter training program, totally nearly 70 students completing the course over the summer.  According to Betsy Schoenleben, R.N., Education Coordinator at Mercer Health, the students were trained in proper supervision, basic caregiving skills, and how to respond to an ill or injured child.   The students participated in check-offs such as diapering, bottlefeeding, and handwashing.    As part of the class, the Coldwater Fire Department and the Coldwater Department, and Mercer County Central Dispatch spoke to the students.   Students were required to pass a written test to receive certification. Students also viewed a CPR/First Aid video made possible by a donation from the Mercer County Civic Foundation.

Students completing the training in July session included:

Abigail Fortkamp

Elizabeth Hartings

Carter Homan

Sara Homan

Kennedy Irvin

Autumn Jutte

Brooklyn Jutte

Brianna Kaup

Gavyn Lange

Liberty Pohlman

Lily Schoenherr

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

For more information about Education Services provided by Mercer Health, contact Schoenleben at 419-678-5119.

Photo of the students from Mercer Health’s Babysitting Training Program classes held in July.

Dr. Helen Otteno Joins Van Wert Medical Services - OB/GYN Office

Van Wert Medical Services announces the addition of Helen Otteno, M.D. Obstetrics & Gynecology, to its ever-growing list of specialty physicians.  Dr. Otteno attended St. George’s University, School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies and completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Toledo Medical Center in 2016.  Dr. Otteno is a second-generation physician, following in her father’s footsteps, who was a physician in a small town in Romania. 

Women may choose Dr. Otteno or one of the other highly qualified OB/GYN providers as their regular gynecologist for wellness exams, PAP tests, breast exams, mammogram recommendations, and other specialized women’s health needs.  Dr. Otteno has the expertise women need, while her convenient location at the Van Wert Health Center means they don’t have to travel far for comprehensive and compassionate care.  Dr. Otteno, Dr. Delgado and Shane Gerber, CNP are currently accepting new patients.  The office is located in the Van Wert Health Center (140 Fox Road, Suite 201).  Appointments can be made by calling (419) 238-3047. 

Mercer Co. PERI meeting

Tues. Sept. 13, 2016

The Mercer County PERI will hold its meeting on Tuesday, September 13, 2016, at 10:00 A.M. at the Hopewell Grange at the Mercer County Fairgrounds at East Market Street, Celina.  Mr. Jason Cupp, Director of Mercer County Job and Family Services (JPS), will be the Guest Speaker.  He will provide information pertaining to the services this Agency provides to our young and elderly citizens of Mercer County.  The way of life of our younger generation, as well as our senior citizens, touches each of our lives.  At 9:30 A.M., early birds are welcome to come for coffee, juice, and donuts.

ANIMAL DRESS UP CONTEST - Van Wert Fair

Pee-Wee Class

Chase Louth- Horse – Hiro Hamada and Baymax

Korbin Kaverman – Dairy- Ohio State Football

Lydia Kaverman – Dairy – Princess Jasmine and Raja

Eli Scarlett – Sheep – Ohio State Fooball Player

Eliza Leiendecker – Dairy – Hawaiian Vacation

J.J. Korte, Izzy Korte and Connor Sheets – Dairy- USA Olympics Rio Gymnastics Team

Aubree and Brody Mills – Goat – Santa, Mrs. Claus and Dancer

Brooklynn Schnipke – Calf- Mr and Mrs Wedding Calf

Pee-Wee Class Winner: Chase Louth

Junior Class

Skylar Imler – Dairy

Haley Owsley- Alpaca

Courtney Mefferd – Dairy

Katie Gamble – Alpaca – Professional Hula Dancers

Lily Hempfling – Turkey – Kentucky Fried Chicken

Junior Class Winner: Katie Gamble

Senior Class

Cody Gamble – Goat – Caveman and Dinosaur

Grant Mefferd – Dairy

Emily Barricklow – Turkey – Football Quarterback

Senior Class Winner: Cody Gamble

Most Original Entry: Brooklyn Schnipke

Best Overall – Lily Hempfling

2nd Overall – Aubree and Brody Mills

Winners         Beef - Van Wert Junior Fair

            Senior Beef Showman       Trophy            Won by:         Ronnie Schumm

            Sponsored by:          Van Wert County Foundation Black Inc. Award

            Intermediate Beef Showman         Trophy            Won by:         Brett Schumm

            Sponsored by:          Scott Equity Exchange

            Junior Beef Showman        Trophy            Won by:         Ryan Bowsher

            Sponsored by:          Holdgreve Beef Farm

            Champion Beef Showman            Chair  Won by:         Austin Sorgen

            Sponsored by:          Van Wert County Foundation Black Inc. Award

            Champion Supreme Female Overall       Banner           Won by:         Liliana Dietrich

            Sponsored by:          Van Wert Co. Cattlemen

            Reserve Supreme Female Overall           Banner           Won by:         Ronnie Schumm

            Sponsored by:          Buckeye Angus-Chiangus Farms-Craig McNall & Sons

            Grand Champion Beef Feeder Calf         Banner           Won by:         Brett Schumm

            Sponsored by:          Leaders of the Future 4-H Club

            Champion Beef Feeder      Cash  Won by:         Brett Schumm

            Sponsored by:          Beef it Up 4-H Club - In Memory of Justin Adam

            Reserve Champion Beef Feeder Calf     Banner           Won by:         Adeline Sorgen

            Sponsored by:          Convoy Tastee Freeze

            Reserve Champion Beef Feeder  Cash  Won by:         Adeline Sorgen

            Sponsored by:          Churchview Farm - Simmentals

            Dairy Steer Best Rate of Gain       Feed Scoop  Won by:         Ethan Kemler

            Sponsored by:          Keber Family Farms

            Dairy Steer 2nd Best Rate of Gain           Feed Scoop  Won by:         Ethan Kemler

            Sponsored by:          Convoy Tastee Freeze

            Grand Champion Dairy Steer        Banner           Won by:         Ethan Kemler

            Sponsored by:          Jerry & Irene Luersman

            Champion Dairy Steer        Trophy            Won by:         Ethan Kemler

            Sponsored by:          The Chris Vorst Family

            Reserve Champion Dairy Steer    Trophy            Won by:         Tanner Matthews

            Sponsored by:          Mike & Diane Owens

Reserve Champion Dairy Steer    Banner           Won by:         Tanner Matthews

Performance Steer Best Rate of Gain      Feed Scoop  Won by:         Brett Schumm

            Sponsored by:          First Federal Savings and Loan

            Performance Steer 2nd Best Rate of Gain          Feed Scoop  Won by:         Tristin Miller

            Sponsored by:          Gene and Drema Arn Family

            Grand Champion Performance Steer      Banner           Won by:         Brett Schumm

            Sponsored by:          Arn Acres

            Champion Performance Steer      Trophy            Won by:         Brett Schumm

            Sponsored by:          First Federal Savings and Loan

            Reserve Champion Performance Steer  Trophy            Won by:         Tristin Miller

            Sponsored by:          Vantage FFA

            Reserve Champion Performance Steer  Banner           Won by:         Tristin Miller

            Sponsored by:          Wellman Seeds

            Show Steer 1st Weight Class        Trophy            Won by:         Caden Ringwald

            Sponsored by:          In Memory of Andy Kemler By Double T Farm

            Show Steer 2nd Weight Class      Trophy            Won by:         Jake Bowersock

            Sponsored by:          Vantage FFA

            Show Steer 3rd Weight Class       Trophy            Won by:         Adeline Sorgen

            Sponsored by:          Vantage FFA

            Show Steer 4th Weight Class       Trophy            Won by:         Ronnie Schumm

            Sponsored by:          NOT NEEDED THIS YEAR

            Show Steer Best Rate of Gain      Feed Scoop  Won by:         Ronnie Schumm

            Sponsored by:          Delphos Pathfinders

            Show Steer 2nd Best Rate of Gain          Feed Scoop  Won by:         Ronnie Schumm

            Sponsored by:          Double T Farm

            Grand Champion Show Steer       Banner           Won by:         Adeline Sorgen

            Sponsored by:          Dave Allmandinger Family

            Champion Show Steer       Trophy            Won by:         Adeline Sorgen

            Sponsored by:          Kenn-Feld Group

            Reserve Champion Show Steer   Banner           Won by:         Ronnie Schumm

            Sponsored by:          Jerry & Irene Luersman

Sponsored by:          Holdgreve Beef Farm

            Dairy Steer Drive 1 Winner            Trophy            Won by:         Betty Vorst

Dairy Steer Drive 2 Winner            Trophy            Won by:         Ethan Kemler

            Sponsored by:          Matthews Farms

            2nd Place Show Steer 1st Weight Class Trophy            Won by:         Liliana Dietrich

            Sponsored by:          Miller Farms

            2nd Place Show Steer 2nd Weight Class           Trophy            Won by:         Austin Sorgen

            Sponsored by:          Magnum Farms & Transport

            2nd Place Show Steer 3rd Weight Class            Trophy            Won by:         Ronnie Schumm

School Leaders and Staff Benefit From Leadership Message at Niswonger

(Van Wert, OH) - For generations, Northwest Ohio has been cultivating leadership qualities in its citizens and the Niswonger Performing Arts Center is honored to take part in continuing this pursuit. On Sunday, October 2 at 7:00 PM, Central Insurance presents motivational and inspirational speaker, Jon Gordon. Gordon’s experience with leadership training has brought enrichment and encouragement to business organizations, big and small, including Fortune 500 companies, numerous NFL, NBA, MLB coaches and teams, hospitals, non-profits, and, most importantly, school districts.

The Niswonger is looking to spur interest in local school districts as well. Bryan City Schools Superintendent, Diana Savage is very familiar with Gordon’s message and has already put them to the test, “Jon Gordon's inspirational messages and thought provoking ideas have challenged me to become a better leader and person. I have incorporated lessons from The Energy Bus into my curriculum for school leaders.” Savage has encouraged her school district to attend and is, “looking forward to hearing [Gordon’s] message this fall.”

Jon Gordon is the author of numerous books including The Wall Street Journal bestseller The Energy Bus, Soup, The No Complaining Rule, Training Camp, and The Carpenter. Jon and his tips have been featured on The Today Show, CNN, Fox and Friends, and in numerous magazines and newspapers. His clients include The Atlanta Falcons, LA Clippers, Pittsburgh Pirates, Campbell Soup, Wells Fargo, Northwestern Mutual, Publix, Southwest Airlines, Bayer, West Point Academy and more. Jon is a graduate of Cornell University and holds a Masters in Teaching from Emory University. He and his training/consulting company are passionate about developing positive leaders, organizations and teams.
 

Jon Gordon is presented by Central Insurance and supported by Kenn-Feld Group, First Federal, Williamson Insurance Agency, Walmart, and Midwest Electric, Inc. Season Sponsors are Statewide Ford Lincoln, Van Wert Federal Savings Bank and Chuck and Karen Koch.
 

Tickets for Jon Gordon are $20 each and can be purchased online at NPACVW.ORG or through the Box Office at 419-238-6722 Mon. - Fri., Noon - 4 PM.

Parkway 225    Ft. Recovery 240
by Coach Teri Samples

The Parkway Girls Golf team got their 3rd MAC win of the season by defeating Ft. Recovery 225-240 on 8-31-2016.  Haylee Stukey of Parkway was medalist shooting a 48.  For Parkway, Mecaylah Hesse added a 57, Lauren Henderson a 59 and Autumn Ellis a 61 to round out the scoring.  Maggie Houts had a 68 and Emma Gause an 89 for the host Panthers.

For Ft. Recovery, Emily Bruns led the way with a 49.  Kristen Keller contributed a 60, Sophie Timmerman a 64, Elli Keller and Eryn Litmer both had a 67 and Lydia Schmitz shot a 76.

Boys Golf Compete at Mercer Co. Elks
by Coach Joe Falk
In MAC action at Mercer Co. Elks Golf Course (par 36), the Parkway Boys Golf team fell to Ft. Recovery 202-182 despite Cole Schoenleben's medalist effort. Schoenleben shot a 41 to lead the way for the Panthers. Mason Baxter shot a 51, Jack Wehe a 54, Ashton Hamrick 56, David Gause a 59 and Andy Metz a 77. Parkway is now 3-3 in the MAC and 6-4 overall.

Ft. Recovery Scores
Austin Faller-48
Austin Pohl-44
Micaiah Cox-45
Harrison Kaup-47
Calvin Rammel-50
Grant Knapke-46

Golfers Compete in Deerfield Tri-Match
by Coach Joe Falk
In a tri-match at Deerfield Golf Course (par 36), St. Henry scored a 162, Parkway -185 and Ottoville - 196. Match medalist was Kyle Naumann of St. Henry with a 37. Parkway is now 6-3 on the season. This was a non league match between Parkway and St. Henry.

Parkway Scores: Cole Schoenleben-47; Mason Baxter-42; Ashton Hamrick-51; Jack Wehe-46; David Gause-50; Duncan Morton-55

St. Henry Scores: Kyle Naumann- 37; Rylee Deitsch- 46; Seth King-49; Ryan Grieshop-42; Jack Romer-45; Lucas Grieshop-38

Ottoville Scores: Andy Schimmoeller- 43; Dylan Kemper-47; Ethan Geise-50; Kaleb Hanicq-56; Zach Knippen-58; Evan Turnwald-63

Van Wert Junior Fair Fashion Show  2016  Awards

Best first year sewing project
 Lauren Anspach   - Sewing Kit donated by Robin Schumm and Rita Adam

Junior Clothing Award –
Chloe Etzkorn – Trophy donated by Karen Pugh

Intermediate Clothing Award 
Dylann Carey – Cash Award donate by the Anne Keber Memorial

Senior Clothing Award
Maddie Pohlman – Trophy donated by  Nancy Johnson

Construction Award
Frankie Carey – Scissors donated by Van Wert Neighborhood Group of the American Sewing Guild

2016 Modeling Awards

Junior-    Kitty Kopack   - Trophy sponsored by Nancy Johnson

Intermediate:  Madison Pugh – Trophy sponsored by Terry, Pat, and Lauren Offerle

Senior:  Maggie Cripe- Trophy sponsored by Leaders of the Future 4-H Club

Best Total Look:  Carley Wendel   Trophy sponsored by Chelsey Lloyd 

 
September 3-5, 2016 ~ Labor Day Weekend
 

Van Wert County Fair Continues Until September 5th

Van Wert Junior Fair Show Winners               Sheep

                Senior Sheep Showman                Trophy  Won by:               Brendon Doner

                Sponsored by:   In Memory of Terry Hiller - Hiller Family

                Intermediate Sheep Showman  Trophy  Won by:               Sidney Doner

                Sponsored by:   Brad Owens Family

                Junior Sheep Showman                Trophy  Won by:               Nicholas Doner

                Sponsored by:   CW Farms

                Champion Sheep Showman        Cash      Won by:               Austin Sorgen

                Sponsored by:   E.O. "Nick" Stemen

                Champion Sheep Showman        Chair      Won by:               Austin Sorgen

                Sponsored by:   E.O. "Nick" Stemen

                Grand Champion Ram    Trophy  Won by:               Sidney Doner

                Sponsored by:   Dick Jellison- Paul Ross Memorial Award

                Reserve Champion Ram                Award   Won by:               Daegan Hatfield

                Sponsored by:   R Lane Acres

                Grand Champion Ewe    Trophy  Won by:               Brendon Doner

                Sponsored by:   In memory of Andy Kemler By Knapke Suffolks

                Reserve Champion Ewe                Trophy  Won by:               Daegan Hatfield

                Sponsored by:   Delphos Animal Hospital

                Best Rate of Gain             Feed Scoop        Won by:               Adeline Sorgen

                Sponsored by:   VW County Old Fashioned Farmers Days

                Best Rate of Gain 2nd    Award   Won by:               Ean Scarlett

                Sponsored by:   R Lane Acres

                1st Light Weight Market Class     Trophy  Won by:               Emily Greulach

                Sponsored by:   Double T Farm

                2nd Light Weight Market Class   Trophy  Won by:               Evan Scarlett

                Sponsored by:   Youth For Christ

                1st Heavy Weight Market Class  Trophy  Won by:               Ethan Greulach

                Sponsored by:   In Memory of David Allen Hiller - Hiller Family

Sponsored by: Ohio City Blue Ribbon Workers 4-H Club

            Grand Champion Market Lamb         Trophy Won by:           Ethan Greulach

Grand Champion Market Lamb  Banner Won by:               Ethan Greulach

                Sponsored by:   Gary Richey Auctioneer

                Reserve Champion Market Lamb              Trophy  Won by:               Emily Greulach

                Sponsored by:   In memory of Andy Kemler By Knapke Suffolks

                Reserve Champion Market Lamb              Banner Won by:               Emily Greulach

                Sponsored by:   Tri-County Driving School, Tom Osting

                Grand Champion Performance Lamb      Banner Won by:               Whitney Welker

                Sponsored by:   In Memory Of Imogene Wortman

                Grand Champion Performance Lamb      Trophy  Won by:               Whitney Welker

                Sponsored by:   Ron & Carla Young & Family

                Reserve Champion Performance Lamb  Banner Won by:               Whitney Welker

                Sponsored by:   Gary Richey Auctioneer

                Reserve Champion Performance Lamb  Trophy  Won by:               Whitney Welker

                Sponsored by:   Youth For Christ

                1st Medium Weight Market Class             Trophy  Won by:               Brendon Doner

                Sponsored by:   Sorgen Farms

                2nd Medium Weight Market Class           Trophy  Won by:               Caden Ringwald

 
September 2, 2016
 

2016 Exhibits Building Awards

Displays were judged in the Jr. Fair Building including Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, FFA and 4-H Club Displays! The following booths were awarded for their efforts:

1st. Ohio Challengers 4-H Club

2nd. Bunny Hoppers 4-H Club

3rd. Hoaglin Farmers 4-H Club

Honorable Mention

Shooting Stars 4-H

Club Clever Clovers 4-H Club

 Come check out all the great displays at the Van Wert County Fair now through Monday, September 5th, 2016.

Pictured is of the 1st Place booth winner, the Ohio Challengers 4-H Club of Convoy, OH

State Patrol Investigating Fatal Crash in Van Wert County

Pleasant Township – The Van Wert Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a two vehicle fatal crash that occurred on US Route 224 at the intersection of Liberty Union Road in Van Wert County.

On September 1, 2016, at approximately 3:10 P.M., a 2003 GMC Envoy, driven by Lloyd Conway, age 57 of Charlotte, Michigan, was traveling west bound on US Route 224 approaching Liberty Union Road.  Mr. Conway attempted to make a left turn onto Liberty Union Road and was struck by a 2005 Honda Accord, driven by William H. Wise III, age 67 of Van Wert, who was traveling east bound on US Route 224.

A passenger in the Honda, Alice Wise, age 66 of Van Wert, was transported by Van Wert EMS to Van Wert County Hospital where she was pronounced dead.  Mr. Wise was transported by Van Wert EMS to Van Wert County Hospital where he was treated and transported to Parkview Regional Medical Center.  Mr. Conway, the driver of the GMC, and his passenger, Anya Straka-Conway, age 26, were treated for minor injuries and released at the scene.

Mr. and Mrs. Wise were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash, as was Mr. Conway.  Alcohol is not suspected to be a factor in the incident.  US Route 224 was closed for approximately one hour and has since reopened.  The crash remains under investigation. 

The Van Wert Post was assisted by the Van Wert County Sheriff’s Office, Ohio City Fire and EMS, Van Wert Fire and EMS, 2A’s Towing and Superior Collision.

For the upcoming Labor Day weekend, the Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds motorists to designate a sober driver, do not drive distracted, and always wear your safety belt. 

September is Safe Driving Awareness Month in Ohio

Van Wert/Paulding – September is Safe Driving Awareness Month, and the Ohio State Highway Patrol is asking motorists to commit driving buckled, focused and sober. In addition, motorists can help keep roadways safe when they take their time, drive defensively and know all traffic safety laws.

 Last year, 1,110 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes. Although fatal crashes rose slightly in 2015, Ohio is still on pace with record low fatal numbers.

 “By devoting their full attention to the road, motorists can reduce their risk of getting into a crash,” said Lt. Tim Grigsby, Post Commander. “We need all motorists to practice safe driving habits to make the roadways safe all across Ohio.”

 From 2011-2015, an average of 287,732 motor vehicle crashes were reported on Ohio’s public roadways each year. On average, 1049 people died in 966 of these crashes.

September was designated as Safe Driving Awareness Month in June 2014 by Senate bill 294 to honor Maria Tiberi and other victims of motor vehicle crashes. Maria Tiberi was a 21 year old college student who died in a distracted driving crash in September 2013. She is the daughter of Columbus television sports anchor, Dom Tiberi.

To view the statistical analysis regarding our safe driving awareness month visit http://www.statepatrol.ohio.gov/doc/SafeDriving_Bulletin_2016.pdf

As always, the Patrol asks drivers to call #677 to report impaired drivers or drug activity.

State Patrol Investigating Fatal Crash in Paulding County 

Blue Creek Township – The Van Wert Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a single vehicle fatal crash that occurred on Township Road 48, east of Township Road 79 in Paulding County.

On August 31, 2016, at approximately 11:55 P.M., a 1997 Ford pickup truck operated by Philip D. Miller, age 53, of Haviland, Ohio was traveling west bound on Township Road 48 and traveled off the right side of the roadway.  The vehicle struck a utility pole and re-entered the roadway before traveling off the left side of the roadway.  The vehicle entered a cornfield and overturned, ejecting the driver.  The vehicle came to final rest on Township Road 79, south of Township Road 48.

Mr. Miller was pronounced dead at the scene by Paulding County Coroner Dr. Joseph Kuhn.  He was transported by Scott EMS to the Paulding County Morgue.

Mr. Miller was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.  Alcohol is suspected to be a factor in the incident.  The crash remains under investigation. 

The Van Wert Post was assisted by the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office, Scott Fire and EMS, and Gideon’s Towing. 

For the upcoming Labor Day weekend, the Ohio State Highway Patrol reminds motorists to designate a sober driver, do not drive distracted, and always wear your safety belt. 

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

 
September 1, 2016
 

Thank you to Nikki Fox for These Junior High Parkway Fall Sports Pictures 

Click Here for the Junior High Page

Parkway 8th Grade Football

Parkway 8th Grade Volleyball

Parkway Junior High Cross Country

Parkway 7th Grade Volleyball

Parkway 7th Grade Football

Parkway Junior High Cheerleaders

 
August 31, 2016
 

Thank you to Nikki Fox for These and Upcoming Parkway Fall Sports Pictures 

Click Here for the Varsity Volleyball Page

Click Here for the Cross Country Page

Click Here for the Golf Page

Parkway Varsity Volleyball

Parkway JV Volleyball

Parkway Co-Ed Varsity Cross Country

Parkway Boys Golf

Parkway Girls Golf

West Nile Virus Found in Mosquito in Mercer County
Confirmed West Nile Virus in Mercer County Mosquito Sampling The Mercer County Celina City Health Department was notified by Ohio Department of Health (ODH) officials at 4:00pm on August 24, 2016 that a sample of mosquitoes collected by ODH in the Coldwater Community Garden on August 11, 2016 tested positive for West Nile Virus. At this time no human or animal cases have been confirmed. This confirmation reaffirms the ongoing assumption that the mosquito population could be infected with disease causing agents, no matter the location – rural or urban, and that people need to take precautions against mosquito bites wherever they happen to be. To avoid risk of contracting a mosquito-borne disease, use insect repellant containing DEET on exposed skin (especially during early morning hours and early evening hours), or cover exposed skin with clothing and eliminate breeding sites such as standing water. Coldwater Village Administrator/Engineer Eric Thomas said in response to the recent news from the state health department that the Village plans to resume their on-going mosquito adulticide regimen with an additional application on Sunday, August 28, 2016. The application of pesticide will occur after dark, between the hours of 9:00 pm – 12:00 am. Previous to this upcoming application, two applications were performed in late June and late July. The upcoming application will consist of identical chemicals and methodology as were used in the prior treatments. For specific information regarding the treatment, contact Village of Coldwater. For more information regarding West Nile Virus visit our website at http://mccchd.org/environmental-health/west-nile-virus-surveillance/, ODH: http://www.odh.ohio.gov/wnv or CDC: http://www.cdc.gov/zika/prevention/prevent-mosquitobites.html. Mercer County Health Department will be giving out free mosquito repellent wipes with DEET at our office during normal business hours. . If you have any further questions you may contact the Health Department at 419-586-3251 M-F, 7:30 – 4:00 pm.

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy
Rolling Out Online Voter Registration

This past spring the General Assembly was hard at work writing a bill to create an online voter registration system.  This legislation was extremely important for our state and ultimately Senate Bill 63, was passed by both chambers and signed by Governor Kasich.

Senate Bill 63 establishes a system where Ohioans have the opportunity to register to vote online by requiring the Secretary of State to establish an online voter registration process that is safe. The Secretary of State will also be in charge of obtaining the applicant’s signatures as an electronic copy from the Bureau of Motor Vehicles to be used on their voter registration records.  Additionally, security measures must also be in place by the Secretary of State to ensure accuracy.

This legislation is essential to our state, which is why I was happy to see it signed by the Governor. Under this Bill, Ohio residents could simply submit a voter registration form online including their name, address, date of birth, the last four digits of their Social Security Number and their Ohio driver’s license or state identification number. The information provided will then be checked against information at the Bureau of Motor Vehicles to ensure each applicant is eligible to vote in Ohio.

In this modern age it is important to adjust to the times and that is exactly what we are doing with Senate Bill 63. This Bill provides an easy outlet to become a registered voter and it is my hope that this will get more people to the polls and involved.

Expanding ways to register creates new opportunities for Ohioans registering to vote and simplifies the process. Any time I can simplify and remove red tape for my constituents count me in. I am excited that this bill will become effective on September 13 and that we are joining the majority of our states who have already created similar online voter registration systems.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns on issues surrounding Ohio do not hesitate to contact my office at 614-466-6344.

Parkway Boys Golf Team Competes
by Coach Joe Falk

On a hot afternoon at Deerfield Golf Course (par 36), the Parkway Boys Golf team lost a league match to visiting Delphos St. Johns by a score of 171-188. Match medalist was Blue Jay, Derek Klausing with a 2 over 38. Low man for Parkway was Cole Schoenleben, 45, followed by Ashton Hamrick with a 47. Mason Baxter and Jack Wehe finished out the scoring for Parkway with a pair of 48s. David Gause shot a 49 and Duncan Morton, a 71 for the Panthers as well. Parkway is now 4-2 on the season and 3-2 in the MAC.

Delphos St. Johns Scores:

Derek Klausing-38, Austin Lucas-46, Austin Lucas-46, Adam Gerker-42, Grant Csukker-45, Robert Buescher-55, Matt Dickrede-58

Parkway JV Scores: Andy Metz-52, Alex Altenbach 57, Jared Gibson 62, Trevor Barker 76

Parkway Boys Golf Team Defeats Crestview Knights
by Coach Joe Falk

At Deerfield Golf Course (par 36) the Parkway Panthers Boys Golf team defeated the Crestview Knights by a score of 183-195. Match medalist was Mason Baxter with a 41. Jack Wehe scored a 43 for Parkway. Cole Schoenleben shot a 49 and David Gause finished out the scoring for the Panthers with a 50. Ashton Hamrick shot a 51 and Andy Metz a 63, as well. Parkway is now 5-2 for the season.

Colton Lautzenheiser 51, Caden Hurless-45, Kaleb Myers-42, Brett Schumm-57; Jacob Bowman-59, Ethan Waddles-64

Parkway 216 Coldwater 216 - Parkway Girls Golf wins on 5th golfer tie-breaker by 1 stroke
by Teri Samples

The Parkway Girls Golf team came away with a nail biter in MAC action, battling heavy rains the last several holes.  After both teams finished tied at 216 after the top 4 golfers, Parkway won the match on the decisive 5th player tie-breaker as Parkway's Maggie Hout's 69 bested Coldwater's Emma Eckstein's 70.  Amanda Schmitmeyer for Coldwater was medalist with a 45.  For Coldwater, Logan May shot a 53, Peyton Kunk had a 57 and Alexis Muhlekamp added a 62.  For Parkway, Mecaylah Hesse led the way with a season low 49, followed by Haylee Stukey's 53, Autumn Ellis had a 54 and Lauren Henderson added a 60.  Parkway improves to 2-0 in MAC play.

Collaborative Law Enforcement Agency Certification Awarded to Mercer County Sheriff’s Office

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey reports his office has been awarded the Ohio Collaborative Law Enforcement Agency Certification status.  The Ohio Collaborative which is comprised of a 12 person panel established state standards.   These initial standards were adopted on August 28, 2015.  These standard included use of deadly force, and agency employee recruitment and hiring. 

Final standard modifications were submitted on June 15, 2016 to the Ohio Collaborative and on August 18, 2016 the Mercer County Sheriff’s office received the provisional certification from the Ohio Collaborative.  The certification process involves a review of current Sheriff’s Office polices procedures such as use of deadly force, and hiring and recruitment practices.   A final on-site review will complete this initial process.  As more standards are released the Sheriff’s Office will be working to maintain compliance of these initial standards and any future standards developed and released by the Ohio Collaborative.

Beanfest Coming to Rockford

Save the Date -  Join us for Rockford's Beanfest in Memory of Bob Clay and Tom Rogers.

The event will take place at Shanes Park on Sunday - October 2nd from 11:30 am - 5 pm.

The Willow is providing Tasty Bean Soup !   Live music by Triad, Parkway JH Choir, Jerry Garcia and George Moore ! 

Food Stand by New Horizons Church Youth Group !  Free Will Offering !

Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the day with us !!

Sponsored by the Rockford Chamber.

.

OUR OLD BOOKCASE

By Joyce L. Alig, President, Mercer County Historical Society, Inc.
Photo Caption:  The Narrow Gauge Locomotive was assembled in Philadelphia in 1880, for the purpose of being used on the Narrow Gauge Tracks out west in the Rocky Mountains

The Narrow Gauge Railroad is remembered in Mercer County, for the Railroad that ran through Chickasaw, Montezuma and north to Mendon.  That narrow gauge railroad connected Toledo and Delphos and Shanes Crossing (Rockford).  In 1881, the line was extended to Mendon, Mercer, Oregon, Celina, Montezuma, Chickasaw, St. John’s Station, and Steineman Station, then south to Dayton.  In 1883, the Toledo, Cincinnati and St. Louis Railroad Narrow Gauge was acquired by the Cincinnati, Hamilton and Dayton Railroad Company (C.H. & D.).  The Sesquicentennial book, :”Mendon, Ohio, 1834-1984,”stated, “When the C.H. & D. Railroad left on April 1, 1923, the grain-shipping trade, the budding sugar beet market, and all hope of securing industry went along with it.  Many farmers lost their original investment and Mendon experienced slight economic growth.  It was a sad day for all concerned.  The railroad had been the township’s economic lifeblood.  But no one knew how much the C.H. & D. would be missed.”

“The Daily Standard,” carried the article, “Abandonment of D.T. & C. [Dayton, Toledo & Chicago] Railroad,” on April 14, 1923.  More information about the three railroads in Mercer County can easily be found in the books, “Passport to Mercer County, Ohio History; Bibliographies for Historical Research” for specific Townships in Mercer County.  The “1978 Mercer County Ohio History,” also gives highlights of local railroad history.  The history books of local villages also contain railroad history.

One of the old Post Cards which was brought to the Museum carried the above photograph of the Narrow Gauge Locomotive, which was assembled in Philadelphia in 1880.  When I read the description, about the Narrow Gauge Railroad, it caught my attention because of the history of the Narrow Gauge Railroad which went through Mercer County, 1881-1923.  The technology and the time period were related.

This fantastic locomotive No. 94, with its smoke stack, strong headlamp, and “cow catcher,” was designed for a Narrow Gauge Track in the Western States.  [Note the antlers on the headlamp.]  The Denver & Rio Grande Railroad ordered this Narrow Gauge Locomotive for the Narrow Gauge Tracks which were necessary for traveling over the Rocky Mountains and through the narrow canyons.  Remember the 1849 Gold Rush to California, which resulted in an increase in population and the development of the western states.  The railroads provided necessary transportation for the mining companies, the agribusiness trade, and the lumber companies.

Mercer Countians have been collecting history of the Railroads since the 1880’s.  In the 1980’s, the Mercer County Historical Society held exhibits and programs about the history of the Railroads through Mercer County.  In 1998, when Mercer County was celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the Mercer County Courthouse, 1923-1998, one exhibit featured the trains through Mercer County. 

The archival collections of Mercer County’s history include books, photographs, maps, and stories about the Railroads of Mercer County.  There are several collectors of local Railroad History, not only in Mercer County, but also in nearby Counties.  The Mercer County Historical Society is discussing the possibility of hosting an exhibit about Mercer County’s Railroad history in September 2017.  Each year, the Mercer County Historical Society has to plan its exhibits and programs at least a year ahead of time. 

Therefore, if you collect History of Mercer County’s Railroads, and you would like to bring some of your collection to the Mercer County Historical Museum for an exhibit in September 2017, please contact me.  Preserving the History of Mercer County’s Railroads is one of the responsibilities and opportunities of the Mercer County Historical Society.  New Members to the Historical Society are always welcome.

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

OUR OLD BOOKCASE

By Joyce L. Alig, President, Mercer County Historical Society, Inc. 
Photo Caption:  Plan to attend the September 11 Tour of the Downtown Historic Village of Mercer, at the intersection of U. S. Rt. 127 and U.S. Rt. 33, six miles north of Celina.

On September 11, 1:00 – 4:00 P.M., Members of the Mercer County Historical Society are hosting an educational tour of the Historic Sites in the Village of Mercer.  You can begin the tour at any one of the sites, as this is a “Drive It Yourself Tour.”  The Mission of the Mercer County Historical Society is To Preserve the History of Mercer County and to Educate the Public about that History. 

George Schroyer’s Truck Collection will be on exhibit at 9411 U.S. 127, just south of Mercer.  In the photo above, Schroyer is standing on the left side of his friend, with the Schroyer Truck, at one of the past Transportation Exhibits at the Mercer County Historical Museum.  (The first five people who contact me with the name of Schroyer’s friend, will receive a free history book which  includes the 1888 & 1900 Plat Map of Mercer Village.)  For information, contact Dave and Toni Schroyer, 419-586-7037. 

Rex and Carl Marsee will be at this the Schroyer Truck Collection Center, signing copies of their historic book, “Mercer Memories.”  For information, contact Carl Marsee, 419-790-1575.

The Members of the Mercer Methodist Church, 5585 Mercer Road, in the Village of Mercer, will be holding an Open House, that Sunday afternoon, September 11.  The stained glass windows are an artistic highlight of this historic Church.  For information, contact Robert Maurer, 419-795-6102.

The Motor Inn Auto and Truck Stop is located at 10391 U.S. 127, at the intersection of U.S. Rt. 33.   For information, call 419 -363-3376, or visit www.motorinntruckstop.com .  The Motor Inn Family Restaurant is adjacent to the Truck Stop; for information call 419-363-2200.

The Mercer Village Post Office was formerly known as Ruckman’s Post Office, which was established on June 22, 1832, and as of April 21, 1837, was transferred to Mercer Post Office.  The Mercer Post Office then was open until it was discontinued on October 19, 1957.  Where was this Post Office located?  Was the Mercer Post Office in the same building as the Ruckman Post Office in downtown Mercer?

Next week, September 8, watch for the 1888 plat map of the Village of Mercer.  Highlights of Mercer’s History, will be available for those interested in preserving the History of the Village of Mercer and its school, churches, businesses, activities and families.  The 1888 Plat map will identify the old C.H. & D. Railroad Track path, depot and elevator.  The sites of the Methodist Church and former Baptist Church are marked.  Other historical sites will be identified on this tour. 

Mercer may be a small village, but it was a site on the old Plank Road of the 1850’s, the present day U.S. Rt. 33, connecting the Ohio River with the City of Chicago.  In the 1880’s, the railroad construction resulted in better transportation, and economic improvement for Ohio.  With Mercer being at the intersection of U.S. 33 and U.S. Rt. 127, and the C.H. & D. Railroad, the Village of Mercer came into existence.   Preservation of Mercer’s History will be the highlight of this September 11, 2016 Historical Tour.  Citizens are invited to become a Member of the Mercer County Historical Society to help preserve Mercer County’s history.  Contact Joyce Alig at the address below for information.

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

 
August 30, 2016
 

Thank you to Nikki Fox for These and Upcoming Parkway Fall Sports Pictures - Click here for the Football Page

Parkway Varsity Football

Parkway Varsity Cheerleaders

Parkway Marching Band

Parkway September 2016 Breakfast Menus by Pam Smith
Parkway September 2016 Lunch Menus by Pam Smith

COMMUNITY WIDE PATRIOT DAY- 9/11 MEMORIAL CONCERT

A Patriot Day Concert will be held at the PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF VAN WERT August 29, 2016 (VAN WERT, OHIO) –

David Van Tilburg, Pianist & Sheila Chilcote-Collins, Soprano, will present a concert titled, “In Remembrance” to be held on Sunday, September 11, 2016. The concert will begin at 7:00 PM in the sanctuary of The First Presbyterian Church of Van Wert on the occasion of the 15th anniversary of the tragedy that unfolded in New York City, Washington D.C. and Pennsylvania 15 years ago on September 11, 2001. The program will feature piano and vocal music along with narration and poetry read by Benjamin King. Classical piano works will feature Chopin’s “Revolutionary Etude”, Schumann’s “Papillions” and Theme & Variations on Mozart’s Sonata in “D Major”. Vocal selections will include several classical and spiritual pieces by such composers as Purcell, Sibelius, Gounod, Malotte, Holst, and Burleigh. Also featured will be contemporary music from the Broadway musical, “Les Miserables”, and from the films, “We Were Soldiers” and “Band of Brothers” among others. This hour-long concert is free and open to the public. For further information, contact Sheila Chilcote-Collins at (419) 238-6209 or sopranosheila@yahoo.com .

CCMEP is for job seekers ages 16 to 24 in Celina, Ohio.

This program will push traditional boundaries to create a community-coordinated, person-centered case management system.  CCMEP will take a coordinated, holistic approach to stabilizing individuals and families by addressing the many factors that may be contributing to poverty and unemployment, including health, housing, education, transportation and child care. In conjunction with supportive services, CCMEP will provide access to employment and training services, including career counseling, job placement and services to facilitate job retention. By combining the strengths of both the workforce and human services systems, CCMEP seeks to improve employment and education outcomes for at-risk youth and young adults by helping participants overcome barriers to employment and develop the skills local employers seek.

If you would like more information, either as a participant, a community volunteer or a business owner, please contact: Mercer County Job and Family Services, Pat Braun, 220 W Livingston Street, Suite 10, Celina OH 45822, 419-586-5106 ext 508 or email Patricia.Braun@jfs.ohio.gov.

The next Rockford Bicentennial Committee meeting will be held on
Wednesday - September 7th at 7 pm at the Rockford Village Hall.

Cast Announced for Comedy “Drinking Habits”

Van Wert, OH- Off Stage Productions, Inc. opens its 2016-2017 season and announces the cast for their upcoming dinner theatre show, “Drinking Habits”, by Tom Smith. This two-act comedy will be Co-Directed by Dan Bulau and Amy Shoppell.  Mark your calendars and plan to attend one of our seven performances, opening on Saturday, October 8th. Additional show dates are Sunday October 9th*, Friday, Saturday & Sunday Oct 14th-16th*, and Friday & Saturday Oct 21st & 22nd.  Doors open at 6:30 pm on Friday and Saturday, *12:30 pm for Sunday matinees, at the Van Wert County Senior Center (220 Fox Road, Van Wert, OH).  A buffet style meal provided by Romer’s Catering will be served starting at 7:00 pm and the show will begin at 8:00 pm (*1:00pm meal and 2:00pm show on the Sunday matinees). 

Directors Dan Bulau and Amy Shoppell have announced the cast for “Drinking Habits”.  Our cast of 8 includes 4 veteran actors of Off Stage Productions as well as 4 actors who are making their very first appearance on our stage.  We are happy to welcome first time OSP performers Kecia Pontius, Daniel Sanderson, Matt Krol and Kelly Smith!

Sister Philamena           - Kecia Pontius

Sister Augusta               - Mary Yackey

George                          - Daniel Sanderson

Mother Superior            - Jewell Kurtz 

Paul                               - Matt Krol

Sally                              - Amy McConn 

Sister Mary Catherine   - Kelly Smith 

Father Chenille             - Steve Bricker 

Reservations for members open at 10:00 am on Monday, Sept.19th and on Wednesday, Sept. 21st for the general public and are open daily. Reservations close at 6:00 pm each day. Off Stage Productions can be found online at http://www.offstagetheatre.com and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/OffStageProductions

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy - A Salute to Our Local Public Safety Workers

America, it seems, has become more divided over the past few years than at any other point in recent memory. Unfortunately, in that process, distrust toward law enforcement has reached an all time high, creating an undeniable tension that plagues communities across the country. When we turn on the television and see horrific events unfold before our eyes, as they did in Dallas, Texas last month, we cannot help but be overwhelmed by the chaos and heartbreak. We must not forget the hours upon hours of daily sacrifice that our public safety workers dedicate to our communities, far too often for little thanks in return.

Every day, all across the United States, hundreds of thousands of dedicated individuals put on a uniform, leave the comfort of their homes, and purposely put themselves in harm’s way to protect the communities which they have sworn to serve. Each day is completely unpredictable; more often than not, lives are at stake and critical decisions must be made quickly. It is absolutely essential that we recognize the devotion that these selfless and brave men and women have made to preserve our safety and liberty.

Not only should we stand behind our law enforcement officers, but also behind our local firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, and first responders. They have humbly dedicated their lives to saving those of others, to boldly step into life-or-death scenarios so that those who fall victim to tragedy can live to see another day. Furthermore, we must remember the families of these brave servants, who every day must bear the burden of fear that their loved one may be the one that needs saving.

I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank all of the law enforcement officers, first responders, and other emergency workers in our communities for taking those risks; for being willing to lay down their lives for complete strangers in the name of preserving order, peace, and safety in our free society. It is evident that these individuals truly love the communities in which they live, and I am honored to have the privilege of representing such dedicated servants of the public.

It is my hope that in times of great division and unrest, we reflect on the values that bring us together as fellow countrymen, rather than those that separate us from each other. We must remember that we are all children of God, we are all Americans, and we are all created equal. Without recognizing what unites us, the American experiment cannot succeed. I would encourage everyone to thank our public safety workers personally whenever the opportunity arises, as they deserve the utmost respect and gratitude for the sacrifices they have made for our communities.

 
August 29, 2016
 

4-H’ers Meet prior to Fair Activities
The Venedocia Lads and Lassies held their last meeting August 11th at the Venedocia Lions club.  The pleadges were led by Tara Radabough.  Roll Call was taken  by Betty Vorst.  Safty and health reports were completed also demonstrations were completed.  The group discussed the fair booth for fair.  Decorating is this Saturday, August 27th, from 9am to 4pm

Avery Mueller 

Meth Lab Discovered – Arrest Made

Sheriff Jeff Grey reports his office is investigating a drug related incident, which would include the discovery of an outdoor methamphetamine cook operation, and the arrest of a male.  On August 23, 2016 at 5:40 PM, Central dispatch received a call from a male reporting his children had observed a suspicious male in the area of Wabash Road, south of State Route 219 near the bridge.  A deputy responded to the area and found a male fitting the description of the suspicious male, who claimed to be fishing in the area.  The male consented to a search of his bicycle and deputies recovered liquid and other containers in a pouch on his bicycle.  The male admitted the liquid was methamphetamine and admitted to “cooking” meth somewhere in Indiana.

Deputies checked the area in and around the bridge and discovered items that are consistent with an outdoor methamphetamine cook operation.   

Arrested was James A. McDowell, age 52 from 210 West Wayne Street, Celina.  Deputies recovered suspected liquid methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, equipment and material commonly used in the manufacturing of methamphetamine.   McDowell is currently being held in the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility for possession of drugs.   The case will be forwarded to the Prosecutor for review of additional charges.

Deputies were assisted with the cook operation cleanup by the Darke County Sheriff’s Office, and were also assisted by the Grand Lake Drug Task Force.  Sheriff Grey encourages citizens to report suspicious activity.  This arrest, and discovery of a methamphetamine cook operation was possible due to a citizen being observant.  Methamphetamine cook operations are extremely dangerous due to the chemicals used in its manufacturing.  If you see something suspicious, or just not right please contact law enforcement.

Jeff Grey

Sheriff

Chamber Banquet Planned

The 43rd Annual Rockford Chamber Banquet will be held on
Monday - September 26th beginning at 6 pm at the
Rockford Community Building.

Single Early Bird tickets are $18 until September 16th.

Please send payment with RSVP to Rockford Chamber,
PO  Box 175, Rockford, OH  45882

This event will be catered by the Rockford Carry Out.

The public is invited and encouraged to attend this
Community event as we Celebrate Rockford !!

 
August 27-28, 2016
 

ALL SERVICE/FRATERNAL MEMBERSHIPS IN THE ROCKFORD/WILLSHIRE/MENDON COMMUNITIES: HERE IS YOUR INVITATION TO……

“Meet and Greet the New Head Football Coach of Parkway High School, Shane Wellman”  and Welcome him to Parkway Program

On  Monday evening September 12, 2016 @ 7:30 pm at the Rockford Eagles Lodge Fellowship Hall, Main Street in downtown Rockford (south entrance) the memberships of Shanes Lodge #377 F&AM, Rockford Eagles, Rockford/Willshire Sons of the American Legion Posts, Rockford, Willshire, and Mendon Lions Clubs, guests and potential new members from all organizations are all invited to a Meet and Greet for the new Parkway Football Coach Shane Wellman.

Agenda: 7:30 Meeting begins with introductions of the various organizations and their officers, and the head football coach and his staff

7:35 Coach Wellman speaks to the group, with Q&A following

8:15 Refreshments are served. Pizza from Rockford Carry-Out, drinks from sponsoring organizations, and homemade Ice Cream from the Masonic Lodge. (Pizza and Ice Cream are being provided compliments of Shanes Lodge)

9:00 party ends!

For questions about this event, please contact Randy Rumple by phone/text @ 419-790-5859, by email at randy.rumple.rr@gmail.com, or by facebook message.

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

 
August 26, 2016
 

Parkway Schools are on a 2 hour delay for Friday, August 26, 2016 due to fog.

Parkway Boys Golf Raises MAC to 3-1
By Coach Joe Falk
At the Mercer Co. Elks Golf Club (par 36), Parkway's Boys Golf team ran their MAC record to 3-1 with a 191-211 win over the Marion Local Flyers. Cole Schoenleben had the low score for the Panthers with a 42. Mason Baxter followed with a 44. Clayton Agler, playing with a cast on his hand, shot a 52 and Jack Wehe finished out the low four score for Parkway with a 53. Ashton Hamrick and Hunter Gause both had 54s for the Black and Gold as well . Parkway is now 4-1 on the year overall, in dual matches.

Marion Local Scores
Collin Fleck-44
Dylan Homan-57

Tim Knapshaefer-59
Seth Kelch-51
Jack Bohman-68
Garrett Pleiman-72

Parkway Girls Golf Win Over Flyers
by Teri Samples, coach

Parkway  230              Marion Local 244

The Panther Girls Golf team picked up the win over the Flyers in MAC play at Deerfield. 

Haylee Stukey was match medalist with a 54, closely followed by Parkway teammate Mecaylah Hesse with a 55.  Autumn Ellis added a 60 and Lauren Henderson finished the scoring with a 61.

Chloe Nagel led Marion Local with a 58, Carlee Kremer with a 60, Marah Moeller with a 61 and Maddie Smith shot a 65.

Foundations Behavioral Health Services to Expand

Foundations Behavioral Health Services kicked off a major building expansion of the main facility at 4761 State Route 29, Celina, with a groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday, August 23.  Over 50 people attended the event, including local elected officials, agency staff, agency Board of Directors, referral sources, community providers, and general public. (see photo of attendees)

The 4000 square foot expansion, with an estimated base construction cost of $536,000, will add 15 counseling offices, a conference room, a doctor’s waiting room, two restrooms, and additional storage and mechanical space to the facility.  The expanded facility will also have added security features, including keyless entry and security cameras at all exterior entrances.  Construction is slated to start the first week of September and completed in May of next year.

The general contractor for the project is Heyne Construction, Minster.  The architect and project manager is Garmann/Miller Architects, Minster.  Financing for the project is provided by Citizens National Bank, Celina.

The purpose of the project is to combine all staff and services into one facility.  Since the merger of Foundations Behavioral Health Services and Gateway Outreach Center in November 2012, staff and services have been housed in both the main facility and in the former Gateway building in Celina.

Foundations is a non-profit corporation governed by an 11-member volunteer Board of Directors.  Seven members of the Board were present at the groundbreaking ceremony. (see photo of groundbreaking).

45 employees and 6 contractual staff provide a full range of mental health and substance use disorder services, including assessment, treatment, support, prevention, and consultation.  Many of the agency’s staff were present at the ceremony.

Brian Engle, Executive Director of Foundations, stated “We were very pleased with the groundbreaking event and are appreciative of all our friends in the community who came out to show their support.  We will soon have a facility that combines all local behavioral health services under one roof and that will provide the residents of Mercer County with more effective, efficient, and accessible services.”

Brief history of the organization:

-- 1975: The organization was started by a group of concerned citizens; originally called Mercer County Mental Health Center; located in the basement of the doctor’s building across from Mercer Health in Coldwater.

-- 1990: Outgrew those offices and moved to the former Convent building owned by Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Coldwater.

-- 1998: Changed our name to Foundations Behavioral Health Services to reflect the expansion of the scope of our services to include both mental health and substance abuse.

-- 2001: Built and moved operation to the current facility. The move to this location placed us closer to the center of the county, closer to Celina, and more accessible to all parts of Mercer County.

-- 2012: Merged with Gateway Outreach Center, the local substance use treatment agency.  This merger combined two local agencies providing behavioral health services into one organization, further integrating mental health and addiction services.  For the past four years, we have utilized both the current facility on Route 29 and the former Gateway facility on Pro Drive to house our staff and provide our services. 

-- 2016: Building expansion project to bring all staff together under one roof.  The end result, projected for May, 2017, will be the full integration of behavioral health services in Mercer County.

Chicken BBQ Fundraiser 
The Board of Education from St. John Lutheran Church, Hopewell Township, is selling Chicken BBQ tickets for Sunday, September 11.  Serving is from 11-12:30 with dine-in, carry-out or drive-thru available.  Meals are $7 each and include ½ chicken, chips, applesauce, dinner roll, cookie and bottled water.  All proceeds will benefit the Mercer County House of Hope - Men's House.  Contact a church member for tickets or call the church office at 419-363-2154.  Tickets are on sale until September 4. 

Van Wert County Fair to Crown King and Queen
The Van Wert County Jr. Fair is proud to announce the events for the Celebration Sunday on August 28th, 2016. The events will be held on the Van Wert County Fairgrounds to the North of the Commercial Building. Events include the King and Queen coronation, 4-H Fashion Style Review, Cloverbud Graduation Ceremony, Cloverbud Show and Tell Awards, and the 4-H Awards Ceremony. The schedule for the events is as follows:

 4:00pm King and Queen

6:00pm 4-H Fashion Style Review

7:00pm Cloverbud Graduation and Cloverbud Show and Tell Awards

7:30pm 4-H Awards Ceremony

Please join us for a night of reflection and celebrating our Jr. Fair youth achievements, and to thank the many donors and volunteers for their contributions. 

 
August 24-25, 2016
 

New Vantage Staff Members

There are a few new faces at Vantage as the 2016-2017 school year begins.  Ms. Diane Font (left) is the new Medical Office Management instructor, Mrs. Alaina Ellis is the new high school secretary, and Mr. Ray Gibson is a new Social Studies teacher.  Lisa Enyart is a new member of the cafeteria/maintenance team, but was unavailable for the picture.  Welcome to Vantage!

What Is Your Hope?

Inspired by @ParkwaySchoolDistrict in St. Louis, Missouri, Vantage welcomed students into the building on their first day of school and asked them to answer one simple question...What Is Your Hope for this school year?? Some of the responses written on a large, colorful banner included, "Graduate with Honors", "Pass English", "95% Attendance", "Make New Friends", "Learn More", "Get my STNA", "Study Harder", "Get my Cosmetology License", "Be a Leader", "Be Top in my Class", and the most popular one with seniors, "Graduate!" The banners now hang in the Commons. Pictured are some students writing their hope on the banner.

Parkway Golfers Wins Over LCC
By Coach Joe Falk

In perfect weather conditions at Deerfield Golf Course (par 36), the Parkway Boys Golf team scored a close win over Lima Central Catholic, 175-178. Leading the way for the Panthers were Cole Schoenleben and Mason Baxter, who both shot 41s. Bouncing back from a bad outing the previous night, Hunter Gause scored a 46. Both Clayton Agler and Jack Wehe shot 47s and Ashton Hamrick scored a 49 for Parkway.

Match medalist was LCC's Regan Altenbach with a 39. Parkway is 3-1 overall.

LCC Scores: Regan Altenbach-39; Dominic Riepenhoff-43; Marcus McGee-53; Braydon Ruble-43; Derek Pignataro-53; John Sreenan-66

 
August 22-23, 2016
 

Click Here for the Parkway Panther High School Football Teams Rosters

Click Here for the Parkway Panther High School Volleyball Teams Rosters

Parkway Ladies Golfers Compete at Hicksville
by Teri Samples, coach

The Parkway Girls Golf team was defeated by Hicksville 245-215.  Micah Schroeder, of Hicksville, was Medalist shooting a 46.  For Parkway, Haylee Stukey had the lowest score with a 53.  Mecaylah Hesse had a 60, followed by Lauren Henderson with a 65, and Maggie Hours rounded out the team scoring with a 67.  Autumn Ellis had a 73 and Emma Gause finished with a score of 84.

Parkway Golfers Defeat Coldwater
by Coach Joe Falk

The Panthers Boy Golf Team defeated Coldwater by a score of 198-210 at the Mercer County Elks (par 36). Leading the way for the Panthers was Mason Baxter with a 47. Clayton Agler finished next low with a 49, closely followed by Cole Schoenleben with a 50. Jack Wehe and Ashton Hamrick both scored a 52, and Hunter Gause also shot a 65 for Parkway. Parkway is now 2-1 in the MAC.

Coldwater Scores- Andrew Fisher 45, Ben Schmitmeyer 53, Trey Wolters 61, Caden Seitz 54, Alex Raffel 58, Chris Meyer 62

Big Brothers Big Sisters Presents Dancing with the BIG Stars
Jonathan Sell of Rockford and Biggby Coffee in St. Marys Joins the Team

There is no other place to be on Saturday, November 12 than at the Overdrive, located at 3769 U.S. 127, Celina, OH 45822, for the 3rd Annual Big Brothers Big Sisters Dancing with the BIG Stars event! This event is based off of the popular TV show, Dancing with the Stars. A group of prominent community members from throughout the area will put on their “boogie shoes” and test their newly learned dancing skills with their experienced dance partners. These dancers are putting their heart and soul into dancing and raising funds for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mercer, Auglaize, & Van Wert Counties. Each of the celebrity dancers and their experienced dance partners will compete twice on Saturday, November 12 at the Overdrive during an afternoon matinee performance starting at 1:30 p.m. and an evening dinner performance starting at 5:00 p.m..

The 2016 cast includes Jason Woods (Coldwater Schools Superintendent) dancing with Barb Powell, Susie Muhlenkamp (Preferred Insurance) dancing with Craig Muhlenkamp. Peter Moreland (Willmann Dentistry) dancing with Lisa Heckman, RJ Coleman (Central Insurance) dancing with Shelbee Miller, Darren Zimmerman (Emerson Climate Technologies) dancing with Stacy Smuts, Jonathan Sell (Biggby Coffee) dancing with Esther Veh, Nicole Wiley (St. Marys School teacher) dancing with Zach Ferrall, and Renee Place (Auglaize County of DD) dancing with Jeff Schnippel. The professional dancers represent several dance studios throughout our servicing area, including:  Boyds Dance Studio, Kim Hohman’s Danceworks, The Dance Centre, Wagner Ballroom Dance Studio. We also have professional dancers representing Minster Local School, Nidec Minster Company, Noble/Montague & Moul, Schnippel Electric, US Postal Service, and ValCo Company,

Dancers will be taking lessons, rehearsing their dances and soliciting funds over the next few months.. The BIG Star Award will be announced at the dinner performance and is based on the celebrity dancer that raises the most money on behalf of Big Brothers Big Sisters. In addition, a Judge’s Choice Award will be given to the couple that has the best dance performance based on the judges’ critiques. The night’s featured judges are Jane Diller, Becky Kunk and Eric (Bruno) Wellman.

Tickets are still available if you would like to be a member of the audience for this event, and each dinner ticket includes a catered dinner in addition to the performance.  The matinee performance includes snacks and a beverage. These tickets are $20 per person for the Matinee Show. The price for the Dinner Show range from $30.00 to $50.00 and are sold on a first come first serve basis.  Ticket information and event information about Dancing with the BIG Stars can be found on the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mercer, Auglaize, & Van Wert Counties website at www.bbbsma.com or by calling 419-584-2447.  Proceeds from the event will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mercer, Auglaize, & Van Wert  Counties’ ongoing efforts to make a difference in your community, one child at a time.

Niswonger Celebrates Ten Years of Volunteers

(Van Wert, Ohio) - The 2016-2017 season is a big deal for many reasons. It is a celebration of ten years of accomplishments, big-name entertainment, and the development of a region that loves the arts. As time waits for no Performing Arts Center, and while we are looking forward to another successful ten years, we believe now is the perfect time to reflect on how we got here. And what better place to start than with a group so instrumental to that success:

Our volunteers.

After all these years of working behind the scenes, on the evening of Thursday, August 11 the Niswonger volunteers were invited onto the big stage. They enjoyed some time together, a delectable meal provided by Black Angus on Main, and even some fun prizes including books written by Niswonger season featured speaker and author, Jon Gordon. Each staff member as well as a few board members took time to speak and thank this cherished group for all they do to ensure success night after night, event after event. Time was taken to recognize a group of individuals who have been volunteering since the premier season ten years ago.

The Niswonger’s growth is surely evident with its volunteers as the upcoming season will boast the largest group of volunteers to date including 22 new additions.

Tickets to events in this milestone Ten Years Of Wow! season can be purchased online at NPACVW.ORG or at the Box Office at 419-238-6722. Box office hours are Tue. - Fri., Noon - 4 PM.

The Niswonger Performing Arts Center is located at 10700 SR 118 South, Van Wert, OH.

 
August 20-21, 2016
 

Suman and Smalley Families Announce Engagement

Kevin and Becky Suman, Willshire, Ohio would like to announce the engagement and approaching marriage of their daughter Jessica Suman, to Bryan Smalley, son of Bob and Suzy Smalley, Rockford, Ohio. The bride elect is a 2006 graduate of Parkway High School and 2010 graduate of The Ohio State University majoring in agriculture. She is employed by Ohio State University Extension in Van Wert County. The prospective groom is a 2000 graduate of Parkway High School and a 2005 graduate of The Ohio State University majoring in agriculture. He is employed by Nation Wide Insurance in Dublin, Ohio. The couple is planning an August 27, 2016 wedding at Praise Point Church, Willshire.

RADC MEMBERS to Meet in Rockford

The next RADC meeting will be Monday, August 22nd at 7:30 at the Rockford Library. Matt and Tom Burtch, the new owners of the Rockford Carryout will be our guest speakers for the evening.

Parkway Golfers Now 1-1 in the MAC
by Coach Joe Falk

At Deerfield Golf Course (par 36) on Thursday afternoon the Parkway Boys Golf team fell to 1-1 in the MAC with a 182-170 loss to Versailles. Mason Baxter led the scoring for the Panthers with a 43, followed closely by Cole Schoenleben with a 44 and Ashton Hamrick with a 45. Clayton Agler finished the low four scores for Parkway with a 50. Jack Wehe also shot a 50 and Hunter Gause, a 53.

Versailles Varsity: Connor Van Skyock 40; Nicholas Stonebraker 41; Alex Groff 45; Kyle Cotner 44;  Isaac Ruhenkamp 47; and Preston Platfoot 47

Parkway JV scores: Duncan Morton- 57, Andy Metz- 65, Alex Altenbach- 62, Jared Gibson-65, Trevor Barker-80

Prevent a summer shortage.  Give Blood

Blood Drive on August 25th at the Rockford United Methodist Church 
located at 202 S Franklin St.  12:00 pm - 5:00 pm

To schedule an appointment call 1-800-RED-CROSS or
online at redcrossblood.org, use sponsor code "rockumc".

Shanes Park Beautification Society Reports
THANK YOU to Donna Riley, Irene Schmidt, Marlene Roebuck and Joyce Emans for continuing to keep up the flowers during such a hot month as July.   They did lots of watering !!  Thank Goodness for the rain we are getting now !



 

Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF)

Honors Local Scholarship Donors

Supporting Students…Transforming Communities

Celina, Ohio – For over 50 years, the Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) has responded to the educational needs of residents in Auglaize, Darke, Mercer and Van Wert counties by providing the resources to allow residents access to college instruction. The foundation secured the funding to build and operate an institution of higher education. Since 1962, WOEF has remained strongly committed to the success of the Lake Campus.

For the 2015-16 academic year, the WOEF Scholarship Program offered eligible applicants the opportunity to apply for over 270 academic scholarships, grants and loans worth over $290,000. Since 1965, WOEF has awarded over $3.4 million worth of scholarships to over 2,600 new and continuing students.

The accomplishments of the Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) are a reflection of a community which stands behind higher education. For over 50+ years, the WOEF board members, as well as many regional donors have remained committed to providing higher education opportunities to the residents of west central Ohio. This has led significantly to the success of the Lake Campus of Wright State University. The WOEF Scholarship program and other special projects which benefit students would not be continuing and prospering today without the generous funding received from private citizens, businesses, and organizations.

Celebrating 50 years in 2016                     
Orientation Announced

Calvary Preschool, located at 10686 Van Wert-Decatur Road, has scheduled student orientation on Tuesday, August 23 at either 9:00 a.m. or 6:30 p.m. Parents can choose which time is most convenient.  Parents and students attending are asked to go directly to the Fellowship Hall.  Following a brief opening, the parents and students will go with the teachers to the individual classrooms.  The teachers will go over the list of needed school supplies and classroom expectations.  Security badge pictures will be taken in the Fellowship Hall. Orientation allows students to meet their teacher while accompanied by their parents, and it is an excellent time for them to meet other classmates.

Calvary Preschool offers many educational opportunities for students, emphasizing Christian principals. We focus on helping children grow intellectually, emotionally and spiritually. The church has a great playground for the boys and girls to enjoy.

To register a child, forms are available on Calvary’s website, www.calvaryelife.org. They can be found by clicking on ministries, then preschool, and finally, forms. After printing each page off, the registration form, along with the registration fee, are due immediately to ensure enrollment.  A few openings remain in each age level class, so register soon.

Parents with children already enrolled in Calvary Preschool, who have yet to receive orientation information, should contact Administrator, Marilyn Agler in the Preschool Office at 567-259-3103.

Classes begin, based on the child’s class schedule, on August 29 & 30.  Calvary Preschool’s teaching staff for the upcoming school year is:  Marilyn Agler, Administrator; Mrs. Issa Ickes, 3-year-old teacher; Mrs. Julie Stewart, 4-year-old teacher; and Mrs. Vicki Chavarria, older 4’s and 5’s teacher. Calvary Preschool began in 1966, so watch for information on celebrating 50 years of ministering to children in our community.

 
August 18-19, 2016
 

Parkway Schools Begin the 2016-2017 School Year on Tuesday, August 23, 2016
Best Wishes to Staff and Students for a Safe and Productive School Year!

Printable Parkway Middle School Supply List for 2016-2017 by Michelle Agler - Click Here

The members of Rockford United Methodist Church  are planning and invite the Community to a Prayer Walk for Parkway Schools. The time and date are Saturday, August 20, 2016 at 8:30 AM at the Parkway High School Entrance. Prayers will be led and blessing offered to for the students, staff, and community for a safe, healthy and productive school year 2016-2017.

 
August 17, 2016
 

PARKWAY BASEBALL CLUB CONCLUDES SUCCESSFUL SUMMER WITH TITLES

 
Chick Stewart Tournament

Submitted by the Coaches

The Parkway Baseball Club recently finished their summer by winning titles at the 31st Annual Chick Stewart Tourney and the Monroe Bash Tourney in Monroe Indiana.  The team finished the summer season with an incredible 28-2 record and winning 5 of 6 tournaments.  The team has compiled a record of 53-7 with 9 championships, 2 runners up and 2 final fours since starting 3 summers ago as

7/8 year olds. We would like to personally thank all the families, friends, businesses that have helped along the way in make all this success possible. We are excited for next season as the team will be gearing up for another great summer on the diamonds.

Monroe Bash Tourney

Carl Marsee to Speak at Shanes Crossing Historical Meeting
The Shanes Crossing Historical Society will have a meeting Thursday, August 25, at 7:30pm in the museum on East Columbia Street in Rockford. Long time area resident, Carl Marsee, will be the guest speaker. Carl recently published a book of his memories of growing up in Mercer and will relate some of the tales he has heard about the town of Mercer. Carl will have copies for sale with him.  The public is invited to the meeting.

 
August 16, 2016
 

Piano Recital Highlights Talented Students

The students of Roberta LePage shared their musical talents with about 60 family and friends on Sunday, August 7, 2016 at the Praise Point Church, Willshire, OH. 

Those students are:  (First Row, left to right)  Emma Wells, (daughter of Cory & Bonnie Wells - 1 year student),  Madalyn Heindel, (daughter of Tom & Shannon Heindel - 7 year student), Kendyn Baker (daughter of Brandon & Rachel Baker - 1 year student), Gwyneth Ridenour (daughter of John & Tricia Ridenour - 2 year student), Hutch Ridenour (son of John & Tricia Ridenour - 3 1/2 year student). 

(Second Row, left to right)  Roberta LePage (proud teacher), Kiva Baker (son of Brandon & Rachel Baker - 1 year student), Clare Krogman (daughter of Dave & Marcia Krogman - 7 year student), Brooke Stephenson (daughter of Luke Stephenson and Angie Stephenson - close to 4 year student), Caiden Berry (son of Ryan Berry and Shana Scott - 1 year student)

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

Parkway Athletic Booster Club Open

4 Person Scramble

Deerfield Golf Course

Sunday September 18, 2016

8 AM and 1 PM

To register, contact Bryan Schoenleben at 419.733.3275 or posie208@yahoo.com

Deadline to enter: Wednesday, September 7

Big Brothers Big Sisters Needs Volunteers for Lunch Club Programs

Big Brothers Big Sisters is about to kick off the fourth year of its Lunch Club program.  Volunteers are needed to be a Big for the program.  In this program, volunteers would meet with a child from area elementary and middle schools for lunch and activities twice a month.  This year we will have programs at Celina Primary, Ft. Recovery Elementary and Middle School, Parkway Elementary and Middle School, Van Wert Middle School, and Wapakoneta Middle School.

Each visit the volunteers spend time with their Little during the child’s lunch.  They spend time talking and getting to know each other and have some free time together.  During the free time, the activities could include making a craft, playing a board game, building a model, or playing on the playground.  The program will begin in mid-September and run through the school year.

Volunteers must be able to meet with a child twice a month for 30-45 min (depending on school) during the students’ lunch.  Volunteers will be able to decide which day they would like to attend and the grade level of their Little.  Volunteers will bring their own lunch or eat at another time. Big Brothers Big Sisters will supply a box of items to use during the free time activities.

The Littles are students from Celina Primary (grades 1-2); Ft. Recovery Elementary & Middle School (grades K-5); Parkway Elementary & Middle School (grades 1-6); Van Wert Middle School (grades 6-8); and Wapakoneta Middle School (grades 5-7).  These are students that it is thought could use a special friend and someone to spend time with them, YOU!  They are looking forward to spending time with a special friend on a consistent basis.  We do not want to turn any students away because of a lack of volunteers.

Littles in the program in previous years have said that they liked having a Big spend time with them and that their Big made them happy.  The Bigs said that they looked forward to seeing their Littles’ smiles and liked knowing their Littles looked forward to their coming.  Teachers of Littles said their students couldn’t wait for Lunch Club days and that they saw positive changes in their students.

To participate in this program or for more information, please contact Big Brothers Big Sisters at 419-584-2447, 1-866-670-BBBS, or e-mail:  neberle@bbbsma.com.  It doesn’t take a lot to make a BIG difference in a life of a student in your community.  Contact BBBS to Start Something today!

Back to School Night is scheduled today 8-16-2016 from 6:00 - 8:00pm.
Busing Information and Athletic Passes information will be in the small commons area.

Football Spirit Wear, Booster Memberships, Golf Scrabble Touchdown Club Tickets & Panther Cards will be available in the small commons area

SALEM CHURCH OF VENEDOCIA TO CELEBRATE GYMANFA GANU

GYMANFA GANU PLANNED AT SALEM PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

            The annual Gymanfa Ganu or Welsh Festival of Song will be held at the Salem Presbyterian church at Venedocia on Sunday, September 4, 2016.  A light supper will be served from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. and the program will begin at 7:00 p.m.

            The tradition can be traced back to the 12th Century in Wales where the singing of hymns in four part harmony began. It has been an important part of the Venedocia Church’s life since 1915.  Visitors return each year from many states to renew friendships and to hear the thrilling sound of the grand old hymns being sung by several hundred people.

            The director this year is Christopher Uhl, who has many family ties to Venedocia. He is the son of Don and Faye Uhl of Van Wert, the grandson of Albert and Margaret (Williams) Uhl, who were both born in Venedocia, and the grand nephew of J. Alford and France Breese, long –time choir director and organist, respectively, of Salem church.

            He is currently the Director of Music at the Hoosac School, Hoosick, New York, an Episcopal college preparatory boarding school. Prior to his present appointment, he was Music Director and Organist of the Cathedral church of the Immaculate Conception, Mobile, Alabama; subsequently he was Assistant Professor of Music at Alabama School of Mathematics and  Science and Music Director of Saint Ignatious Church, both in Mobile.  Mr. Uhl has conducted in major churches in Paris, Venice, Florence and Rome.  In 1995, he was named a Fellow of the Orchestral Conductors’ Institute at the University of South Carolina in Columbia, He remains Music Director of Mobile’s Musica Sacra Choir and Chamber Orchestra, which he founded 29 years ago.

            Featured soloist will be Susan (Morgan) Leffel. She lives in New Knoxville with her husband Keith, son Logan and daughter Morgan.  She has roots in Venedocia and was married in the church in 1992. She is the daughter of Thomas and Eleanor(Evans) Morgan of St. Marys and the granddaughter of the late D. Orus and Eunice (Jones) Morgan and the late Daniel and Ruth (Morris) Evans all of Venedocia.

            Accompanists for the  Gymanfa will be Ladonna Allenbaugh and  Connie O’Neill.  Rev. Thomas Emery is the pastor. For more information call Jean Owens at (419) 968-2430 or e-mail

joytrips@watchtv.net.

The Stateline Writers Club will meet at the Mercer County District Library on Saturday, August 20, 2016, from 10:00 a.m. until noon.  Members are asked to write a composition about an unforgettable character they have met.  The public is cordially invited to attend.

Parkway Boys Golf team beats the New Knoxville Rangers
by Coach Joe Falk

On a rainy afternoon at Deerfield Golf Course (par 36) in Rockford, the Parkway Boys Golf team beat the New Knoxville Rangers 184-208 in Parkway's first dual match of the year. Cole Schoenleben and Clayton Agler tied for medalist honors for the Panthers with matching 42s. Mason Baxter added a 44 and Ashton Hamrick completed the scoring for Parkway with a 56. Also taking part in the varsity match was Jack Wehe with a 57 and Andy Metz with a 71.

For New Knoxville

Ray Newton- 46
Nate Timmerman- 55
Robert Egbert- 56
Nick Thobe- 51
Ben Menke- 71
Corey Kuck- 61

Parkway JVs. Duncan Morton - 54, Alex Altenbach-58, Jared Gibson- 71, Trevor Barker- 76

New Knoxville JVs. Ben Lammers - 54, Cassandra McGue- 57, Trent Lehman -74.

 
August 15, 2016
 

Concert In The Park

On Friday August 19th, the Van Wert Area Community Concert Band will present their final park concert for the season in the band shell of Fountain Park in Van Wert, Ohio. The performance will begin at 7:00 p.m. and is free to the public.  An all-new program of music has been prepared to perform at this concert.  Music to be featured will include a novelty selection on the song “Joshua, a piece that combines several Patriotic songs titled “American Finale and  marches to include The United States National March “The Stars and Stripes Forever” by John Philip Sousa. 

A food stand will be available prior to the concert provided by the District Eastern Star.  Please join the band directed by Richard Sherrick and featuring members from, Van Wert, Elgin, Delphos, Convoy, Chat, Middle Point, Spencerville and Rockford for this special concert.   In the event of inclement weather, the program will be moved to a to be announced location or cancelled. Please listen to the local radio station for this information. The band will also perform at the Van Wert Fair Music Pavilion September 3th at 4:00 P.M.

With School Bus Inspections underway, Patrol offers school bus safety tips for drivers and students

Van Wert– Summer break ends for thousands of Ohio children this month, who will then head back to school. For many, the trip to and from school involves riding on a school bus. The Ohio State Highway Patrol has been in the process of inspecting every Ohio school bus to ensure each bus is safe to transport children to and from school, as well as to school-sanctioned events.

The Patrol has a few reminders for motorists now that buses are back on the roads more regularly. Motorists should remember to stop at least 10 feet back when approaching a school bus from either side while it displays flashing lights and an extended arm, and to not resume driving until the school bus begins moving. From 2013-2015, 4,043 drivers were convicted of failing to stop for a school bus that was loading or dropping off passengers.

“Although drivers of all vehicles are required to stop for a school bus when it is stopped to load or unload passengers, children should not rely on them to do so,” said Lt. Tim Grigsby, commander of the Van Wert Post.  “Children exiting the bus should always stop and look both ways before crossing the street and remain alert to any sudden traffic changes.”

The Patrol reminds motorists to plan ahead and allow extra time for these school bus stops. Motorists are also urged to exercise patience and never pass a stopped school bus.

For a complete statistical breakdown of school bus inspections, crashes and passing stopped school bus violations, visit http://www.statepatrol.ohio.gov/doc/School_Bus_Bulletin_2016.pdf.

Parkway Ladies Golfers Compete at Deerfield
by Teri Samples, coach

Antwerp defeated Parkway at Deerfield 218-201 in Girls Golf.  Emilee Phillips of Antwerp was Medalist with a score of 43.  Haylee Stukey led Parkway with 50, followed by Mecaylah Hesse with 54, Maggie Houts 55, and Lauren Henderson with 59 to round out the top 4 scores. Autumn Ellis had 61 and Emma Gause 70 for nonscoring players.

Parkway Ladies Golfers Travel to Pleasant Valley Golf Course
by Teri Samples, coach

The Parkway Girls Golf team traveled to Pleasant Valley and were defeated by Wayne Trace.  Gracie Gudakunst took medalist with a score of 39.  Haylee Stukey led Parkway with a 56, followed by Lauren Henderson scoring 57, Mecaylah Hesse 58, and Maggie Houts 66. 

Top scorers for Wayne Trace were Gracie Gudakunst 39, Brooke Sinn 45, Gilly Wiseman 50, and Hailey Dempsey 50.

OUR OLD BOOKCASE

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

Photo Caption:  The Minneapolis Moline Power Implement Co. produced a new “Universal” Tractor in 1932.  (Credit:  “The Agricultural Tractor, 1855-1950.”)

The word “Depression,” carries an impact on adults today, because we heard our parents describing the world’s difficult economic times in the 1930’s.  Companies were more than cautious about introducing new machinery.  Historically, statistics for the year 1932 indicate that tractor sales in the United States had dropped to about 19,000 units, which were the lowest sales of tractors since 1915. 

Some companies moved forward.  “In 1932, the Minneapolis Moline Power Implement Co. produced a new “Universal” tractor of the wide tread tricycle type capable of burning gasoline, kerosene, or distillate fuel.  This model together with others of conventional type that were soon to follow were equipped, with high-turbulence cylinder head, and with patented ‘Hot Spot’ manifold attachment for use with different fuels,” stated R.B. Gray, in his book, “The Agricultural Tractor, 1855-1950,” published by the American Society of Agricultural Engineers, Saint Joseph, Michigan, 1954-1975.

I have four good reasons, as to why I writing about The Minneapolis Moline Tractor this week.  The first reason is that I have been reading about the history of The Minneapolis Moline Company, because New Idea Company purchased the Uni-Tractor and Uni-Implement portion of Minneapolis Moline, Inc. in 1963.  Production of the Uni-Equipment was transferred to the Coldwater, Ohio factory of New Idea, with production of the Uni-Tractor beginning in late 1963. 

The second reason I am writing about The Minneapolis Moline Company is that the New Idea Historic Preservation Committee of the Mercer County Historical Society is in the process of writing its third book in a series about the history of New Idea Company.  Their first book, 2013, is about the New Idea Company’s Horse Drawn Manure Spreader.  (Those books sold out immediately!)  Their second book, 2015, is about New Idea Company’s Corn Pickers.  This third book is about the history of the New Idea Uni-System; we hope to have this book in print by the Coldwater Picnic in August 2017.

The third reason I am writing about New Idea History and about old farm equipment is that Alvin and I attended the Coldwater Picnic, when our nephew Greg Alig approached us and asked, “Where are the antique tractors and the New Idea Farm equipment?  I walked to the north side of the Park, and the Exhibit was NOT THERE!”  Alvin explained that our New Idea Committee hosts the New Idea Farm Equipment and Antique Tractor Exhibit, every other year.  Since the last Exhibit was held in 2015, the next Exhibit will be in 2017.  Greg asked why we do not host the Exhibit every year.  There reason is that our NIHP Members are retired, and it is a lot of physical labor:  (1) On Thursday and Friday, go to the individual farms and load the farm equipment or tractors on the trailers; (2) Drive the trailers to the Coldwater Park and unload the equipment and tractors for exhibit for the weekend; (3) On Sunday and Monday re-load the equipment and tractors and drive them back to the individual farms; (4) Unload the equipment and tractors at the farm, and (5) Help the farmer store the equipment and tractors.

The fourth reason I am writing about New Idea History and old farm equipment is to invite the younger generation who value visiting the Exhibits and/or collecting and restoring the old equipment and tractors, to become Members of the New Idea Historic Preservation Committee of the Mercer County Historical Society.  Ask our NIHP Members if they are enjoying their work:  Phil Naumann, Don Muhlenkamp, Lavern Heuing, Frank Mohlman, Gary Rismiller, Joe Kuhn, Jim Weiler, Ollie Wendel, Richard Bashore, Ken Coffman, Leroy Peters, Bob Stelzer, John and Ron Fischer, Orville Kunk, Lester Bensman, Pete Schaefer, Tom Hoyng, and Alvin Alig.  We especially could use some help at the Exhibit at the Coldwater Picnic in August 2017.  Call the NIHP guys or call me that you want to help next summer!

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

More Panther Sports Schedules Provided by Lisa Miller

Click Here for the 2016 Parkway Varsity and Freshmen Football Printable Schedules

Click Here for the Parkway Varsity, JV Volleyball, and Freshmen Schedules in Printable Format

Click Here for the 2016 -2017 Parkway 7th & 8th Volleyball Teams' Printable Schedules

Click Here for the 2016 - 2017 Parkway 7th and 8th Football Teams' Printable Schedules

Click Here for the 2016 Parkway Boys and Girls Cross Country Schedules in Printable Format

 
August 13-14, 2016
 

The members of Rockford United Methodist Church  are planning and invite the Community to a Prayer Walk for Parkway Schools. The time and date are Saturday, August 20, 2016 at 8:30 AM at the Parkway High School Entrance. Prayers will be led and blessing offered to for the students, staff, and community for a safe, healthy and productive school year 2016-2017.

Parkway Elementary Playground is being repainted Aug 15-19.  Please stay off the playground.

Due to construction on Parkway’s visitor's bleachers, Paulding football fans will also sit on the home bleachers.

TV-44 Auction Takes Place in Less Than 1 Month (September 10, 2016)

TV-44 is a 501 C-3 Non-Profit organization and relies on monetary contributions for it's annual operating budget. The proceeds of the TV-44 auction are used to fund local programming highlighting high school youth and positive family events. Contact Jennifer Beck her at 419-339-4444 x 162 or email jbeck@wtlw.com to donate.

Otterbein St. Marys Lifestyles Community Planning Annual Fish Fry

Saturday, August 20, from 11 AM to 3 PM is the Annual Fish Fry at Otterbein in St. Marys. Come and enjoy the day with a delicious fish dinner, a boat ride, train ride, music, free snowcones and cotton candy by the Wapakoneta Jaycees, Classic Car Show, and door prizes, silent auction and entertainment.

Mercer Health announces Groundbreaking for West Wing Expansion

Groundbreaking ceremonies have been set for the West Wing Expansion project at Mercer Health’s Mercer County Community Hospital in Coldwater.  Mindy Kremer, Senior Director of Development, Marketing and Community Relations states, “The original groundbreaking ceremonies for this organization, held on November 9, 1949, were a monumental event for the community with much pomp and circumstance.  We are approaching another pivotal moment in the history of not only this organization but in our community.  We invite the community to celebrate this occasion with us and be a part of history.”

In addition to groundbreaking ceremonies which will take place during a special ceremony at 1:30 p.m., information about the details of the project and refreshments will be available during the open house, which will be held on Sunday, September 25th from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. on the West lawn at Mercer County Community Hospital, 800 W. Main St., Coldwater.

The West Wing Expansion and associated Building on a Promise capital campaign were announced in February 2016.  Kremer states, “In order to continue to meet the healthcare needs of our community, an expansion project is necessary.  The visionaries that made this organization a reality in 1950 made a vow to make quality healthcare available locally.  We are building on that promise initiated by the forefathers of this organization.”  For more information about the expansion and the Building on a Promise campaign, visit www.mercer-health.com.

 
August 10-12, 2016
 

Parkway Fall Sports Pictures (except Golf) by Nikki Fox are Today, August, 10, 2016
Seniors Report to the Football Field at 8 AM in Jeans and Jerseys

Click Here for the Fall 2016 Parkway Co-Ed Cross Country Schedule

Click Here for the Fall 2016 Parkway Men's and Women's Golf Schedules

Parkway Varsity Boys Golf at the Mercer County Invitational
by Coach Joe Falk

The Parkway Varsity Boys Golf team finished 3rd today at the Mercer County Invitational at the Mercer County Elks Golf Club (par 72) on Tuesday. On a very warm day the Panthers scored a 393, finish behind St. Henry (343) and Ft. Recovery (377). Leading the scoring for Parkway was Mason Baxter with a 93. Ashton Hamrick and Hunter Gause both shot 99s for the Panthers and Clayton Agler finished out the team scoring with a 102. Jack Wehe shot a 120 and Cole Schoenleben was disqualified for a procedural error. 

For the Panthers Junior Varsity, Andy Metz shot a 120, Duncan Morton a 128, Jared Gibson, 141, Alex Altenbach, 146 and Trevor Barker a 161. It was the first 18 hole tournament for many on the JV team. 

Parkway Girls Golf Opens Season at Celina Invitational
by Teri Samples, coach

The Parkway Girl's Varsity Golf Team opened their season on Friday at the 2016 Celina Girls Invitational at the Celina Lynx Golf Club.  The team posted a score of 498 over the 18-hole tournament which was good for 14th place out of 19 teams.  The top 4 scores counting toward the team score were posted by Haylee Stukey (115), Lauren Henderson (125), Mecaylah Hesse (128) and Maggie Houts (130).  Autumn Ellis and Emma Gause also competed for the Lady Panthers.  The team returns to action next Monday at the Lincolnview Lady Lancer Invitational at Hickory Sticks Golf Club in Van Wert.

Findlay won the Invitational shooting a 334, Van Buren placed 2nd with a 376, and St. Henry earned 3rd place with a 377.  Emily Knouff, from Fort Loramie, earned Medalist shooting an impressive 74!

 
August 9, 2016
 

Parkway Girls Golf Invitational at the Lynx
by Teri Samples, coach

The Parkway Girls Golf team made huge improvements from last Friday's Invitational at the Lynx.  Only 3 players were available to play today, so all recorded individual scores.  Haylee Stukey earned a 10th place medal with a 98.  Mecaylah Hesse shot a 116 and Lauren Henderson finished with a 121.

Team Scoring was lead by Lincolnvew with a score of 390, Wayne Trace earned 2nd with a 398 score, and Defiance finished 3rd with a 412 score.  Medalist Honors went to Gracie Gudakunst of Wayne Trace with a score of 88.

Parkway Boys Golf at the Rob Contini Invitational
by Joe Falk, coach

The Parkway Boys Golf team kicked off their 2016 season at Lost Creek Golfers Club (par 71) in Lima, Ohio at the Rob Contini Invitational, which was hosted by Lima Central Catholic. The Panther placed 10th out of 12 teams present in a very deep field. Leading the way for Parkway was Cole Schoenleben with a 91. Mason Baxter was next with a 92 and Clayton Agler shot a 93 for the Black and Gold. Hunter Gause finished the top 4 scoring with a 104. Ashton Hamrick shot a 109 and Jack Wehe carded a 119 for Parkway.

Shawnee won the tournament with a sixth man tiebreaker over Liberty Benton at 319.

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

 
July 28 - August 8, 2016
Parkway Independent - Celebrating 11 years of bringing news to the Parkway area communities.

 

Local Athlete – One of Three Competitors to Advance to National MLB Pitch, Hit & Run Competition

ROCKFORD, OHIO [Monday, July 11, 2019] – The Rockford Recreation Association youth athletic programs of Rockford, Ohio today proudly announces that local 8-year old softball player, Brittyn Bruns, daughter of Chad and Brandi Bruns of Rockford, has qualified to compete in the National Pitch, Hit, & Run Final Competition at the Major League Baseball [MLB] All-star Game in San Diego, California, on July 12, 2016.

Bruns is one of three finalists to compete at this year’s all-star game hosted by the San Diego Padres at Petco Park.

To qualify, Bruns successfully placed ‘First’ at local, district and regional level competitions earning eligibility to compete at the State Championship recently held at the Cleveland Indians Stadium, Cleveland, Ohio. Bruns placed ‘First’ in the 7/8 year-old age division. Her combined Pitch, Hit, & Run scores from the Cleveland event was compared to other competitors across the US. Her score placed in the top three high scorers nationwide, earning her spot at the national competition to be held on July 12th at the MLB All-star Game.

After taking the field to compete for “First” in the nation, Bruns – along with the other national competitors – will be invited onto the Padres’ field to field balls during the annual Home Run Derby contest.  

“On behalf of the Rockford Recreation Association, Village of Rockford, and friends of Shane’s Park, we wish to extend our congratulations to Brittyn on all of her successes at the recent Pitch, Hit, and Run events and our support for her upcoming efforts to win nationals,” stated Ryan Thompson, president of Rockford Recreation Association. “The reason we host these events is to allow our area youth to showcase their talents and we were excited to have three competitors from our local event qualify for the team championships in Cleveland; and for the first time, one of our young athletes to compete at the national Pitch, Hit and Run competition at the MLB All-star game.”

“Congratulations to Brittyn and her family, and also thank you to the many volunteers of our recreation programs that make these events possible for our kids year after year.”    

The Pitch, Hit and Run competition can be viewed via a live stream at approximately 3 p.m. from MLB.com. “Best wishes, Britt!”  

Click on thumbnails below to enlarge them. 

OUR OLD BOOKCASE

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

Photo Caption: The November 22, 1919 Rockford Bank Robbery took the headlines of “The Celina Democrat” newspaper on November 28, 1919.

“ROCKFORD ROBBERY,” was the headline of “The Celina Democrat” Newspaper, on Friday, November 28, 1919.  This old newspaper provides another one of Mercer County’s History Mysteries, from the Historical Files of Jim Johnson, Fort Recovery Class of 1959.  Since the Village of Rockford is celebrating its 200th Anniversary of the June 23, 1820 Platting of Shanesville by Anthony Shane in the year 2020, this Bank Robbery at Rockford is a part of its history.

The description of this robbery is right out of the annals of American History in the “Roaring Twenties.” 

Those scheming crooks entered the bank through a cellar window.  They cut into the Vault of the Farmers Savings Bank at Rockford, with an acetylene gas torch and chiseled open safety deposit boxes of the bank patrons.  Those robbers burglarized only eighteen of sixty deposit boxes, apparently between two and three o’clock on Saturday morning, November 22.

Sheriff Betz was investigating this robbery.  He was told that “two well-dressed strangers” had been in Rockford for several days before the robbery.  Betz also suggested that the robbers had some “local help.”  As for the eighteen safety deposit boxes which were opened, they each had an “X” mark, scratched on the face of the box, which enabled the robbers to go straight to those eighteen boxes to rob. Also, the robbers knew exactly in which desk drawer to find the key, to the second door of the vault, without disturbing the contents of that drawer.  [How did that happen?]

The robbers may have obtained unregistered government bonds totaling nearly $150,000.00, as well as documents, wills, mortgages, notes, deeds and other records.  Various citizens were quoted as to the amount of money that they lost due to this robbery.  The Rockford Postmaster Rolla Frysinger reported that he lost $1000 in postage stamps.  A young male lost $300 in Liberty bonds, which he had saved to pay for college.  A Senior Citizen lost his life savings in bonds.  Those who lost money had stories to tell.  [I wonder if the Bank carried some type of insurance for protection of its Bank Customers in case of theft, at that time in history?]

A Reward of $11,000.00 was offered by the Directors of the Bank, for apprehension and conviction of the burglars and the recovery of the stolen bonds and other papers.

Here is the Mercer County History Mystery for Rockford Citizens.  Were the 1919 Bank Robbers captured?  Were the stolen bonds and papers recovered?  “The Rockford Press,” would be a good source of local information, for local historians.  When Rockford celebrated its Sesquicentennial, 1820-1970, they published the book, “Souvenir Journal, Shanes Crossing, Rockford Sesquicentennial, Mercer County, Ohio, 1820-1970,” by Martha Baltzell.  Fred and Martha Baltzell were Managers of The Rockford Press, from 1957 until June of 1977, when Mr. and Mrs. Larry Baltzell and Mr. and Mrs. Gary Baltzell took over management.  In that 1970 book, the history of “The First Banks,” was included on page 27.  This article states, “Entrance was gained thru the coal chute and then the door at the top of the stairs was broken open; 19 safety deposit boxes were forced into.  This robbery caused the bank to undergo some improvements:  a new vault door, a new safe, and a Cannon Ball alarm system.”  There is no mention of the bank robbers being caught in this history book.

A local bank robbery is a devastating event, especially to the families who were robbed.  Who remembers the story of the bank robbery being re-told at your family reunions?  The Memory of that Bank Robbery goes down in Rockford and Mercer County’s local history books.

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy

Medical Marijuana in Ohio: What’s Ahead?

During my time in the state legislature, I have fought tooth and nail to protect families all across our state. As you may know, Governor Kasich recently signed into law House Bill 523, which legalizes medicinal marijuana and establishes the Marijuana Control Program to regulate its use. In spite of my opposition to creating any means of legalizing marijuana, there are many different facets of this bill that Ohioans should be aware of that serve to protect us and our children from harm.

In the United States, marijuana is treated as a Schedule I substance, meaning that it has no accepted medical use, is unsafe, and has a high potential for abuse. In this bill, however, marijuana is treated as a Schedule II substance, meaning that while there is potential for abuse, it does have medicinal value. This opens the door for new research into the possible benefits of the plant and its extracts, and even requires physicians that prescribe medicinal marijuana to a patient to submit a report to the state Medical Board to evaluate their progress. This legislation also urged Congress to officially reschedule marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule II to encourage research nationwide.

The Marijuana Control Program will put in place a number of thorough restrictions to ensure that any marijuana being cultivated is only for medicinal purposes. The personal cultivation of marijuana still remains illegal, and patients will not be able to smoke the medications they receive. In addition, driving under the influence of marijuana is still an offense.

Physicians must undergo a thorough certification process before being able to prescribe to patients. Access to these substances will be strictly regulated, as patients must be diagnosed with a qualifying medical condition to be considered. Cultivators and owners of dispensaries will be required to undergo a criminal background check, and dispensaries will be strictly regulated and inspected. They will also not be permitted to be within 500 feet of our churches, schools, parks, and libraries, and any forms of the drug that may be attractive to our children will be prohibited. In addition, local municipalities will have the power to limit or prohibit medicinal marijuana dispensaries in our communities, maintaining home rule.

One benefit of legalizing medical marijuana is that it will reduce the amount of opiates that doctors are prescribing. Marijuana is a much safer drug, and with less prescribed opiates, this may help reduce the number of drug addiction and overdoses in Ohio.

It is our responsibility as Ohioans to ensure that the right decisions are made for our state by holding our government accountable. Over the next two years as this law is implemented, it is my hope that our legislators and appointees will hold the interests of Ohio’s families in the highest regard, and will continue to fight to keep drugs out of the hands of children and off of our streets.

The Rockford Chamber recently sponsored a Dunk Tank during Rockford Community
Days and the proceeds are being donated to the Rockford Police Department.
The funds will be used to purchase new tasers.  Thank you to all who came
out and supported our dunk tank !


Pictured Jamie Green - Rockford Chamber Vice President, Mary Beougher - Rockford Chamber President, Rockford Police Chief Paul May, and 
Larry Sielschott of WCSM - Chamber member.

Rockford Council Meets on July 19, 2016

 Click here to read the Rockford Council News for this and other council business.

Willshire Sportsman's Club Annual Flea Market and Trade Days

3385 St Rt 81, Willshire ~~ August 5 & 6 ~~ All Day

The Athletic Booster Club will be providing workers for the concession stand.

All types of flea market items, crafts, cement figures, tools, dog supplies, antiques,

fishing and hunting supplies. Admission is free.

Parkway Athletic Booster Club Open

4 person Scramble

Deerfield Golf Course

Sunday September 18, 2016

8 AM and 1 PM

To register, contact Bryan Schoenleben at 419.733.3275 or posie208@yahoo.com

Deadline to enter: Wednesday, September 7

Mercer Health Weight Management Center continues with Weight Management Presentation:
Blood sugar control and its impact on your weight loss

The Weight Management Center at Mercer Health will be holding a special, FREE program and support group titled “Blood Sugar Control & Your Weight” on Monday, August 8, at 6:00pm at Mercer County Community Hospital Luken Meeting Room.  This month’s program is presented by Karen Homan, RD, LD, CDE, dietitian with Mercer Health Weight Management & Disease Management Center.  Karen will present on how to manage your blood sugars to optimize your weight loss journey.  If interested in attending, registration is encouraged by calling 419-678-8446.  

The Mercer Health Weight Management Center also continues to offer several other Weight Management programs throughout the year.  The following programs are now available through Mercer Health’s Weight Management Center:

1)      Medical Weight loss is now available, with the addition of Lindsey Moeller, CNP, to the Weight Management Center staff.  This offers medically managed weight loss, including surgical and non-surgical interventions, weight loss medications, and appointments specialized to discuss your personal weight loss needs.

2)      The weight loss surgery program continues to grow, and now includes laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy surgery.  The required informational seminar is now available online anytime at www.mercer-health.com. 

3)      Rev It Up!® Weight Management is a 9-week interactive lifestyle program led by our registered dietitian that covers topics such as behavior modification, hunger and fullness signals, fluid needs, meal timing, aerobic exercise, and more. The next 9-week session begins September 13.

4)      The Medifast® Program offers a structured meal plan that incorporates specially formulated Medifast meal replacement and snack products to achieve a low calorie, low carbohydrate diet.  To begin the Medifast program, view the required “Introduction to Medifast” class online anytime at www.mercer-health.com.

5)      The MedGem Indirect Calorimeter is a handheld device that determines an individual’s resting metabolic rate.  This test also includes an interpretation with a registered dietitian to determine an appropriate caloric level for weight loss.  Tests are scheduled on a patient by patient basis.

6)      The monthly Weight Management Support Group Program is held the second Monday of each month at 6:00pm at Mercer Health West Campus meeting room.

To register for the Support Program, or for more information about this program or other Weight Management Programs available at Mercer Health, contact the Weight Management Center at 419-678-8446.  

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

 
July 27, 2016
 

Baltzell Siblings Announce New Brother

Sam, Jake, and Lydia Baltzell are proud to announce the birth of their new baby brother Elijah James.  He was born on April 29, 2016 at 3:48AM at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio.  Elijah weighed 7lbs and 3 oz, and was 20.5 inches long.  He is the fourth child to join the family of Tom and Ann (Bonvillian) Baltzell of Dublin, OH. 

Grandparents include: Paul and Kathy Bonvillian and Sheila Baltzell of Celina; great grandparents include: Paul and Lela Siebert and Paul Bonvillian, Sr. of Celina and Martha Baltzell of Rockford. Late grandfather is Larry Baltzell and late great-grandparents are: Lois Bonvillian and Fred Baltzell, Duane Wood and Virginia Wood .

 
July 26, 2016
 

Bob Maurer Riding Soon in 11th Annual American Legion Legacy Run
Take your Donations to Chatt Bar in Chattanooga, OH for This Worthy Cause

Picture below is from the 2015 ride

Again this year Bob Maurer of Mercer  will be riding in the American Legion Legacy Run.  This is the 11th year for the event and Bob has participated in 9 of the events.

The 2015’s Legacy Run raised over $1.2 million for the American Legion Legacy Fund, which provides college scholarships for the children of U.S. service members who died while on active duty on or after 9/11 as well as post 9/11 veterans with VA disability ratings of 50 percent or higher.

In 10 years, the Legacy Run has helped raise more than $6 million for the fund.

This year’s ride will travel nearly 1300 miles through Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia and Ohio. The riders will depart Indianapolis August 21st and will arrive in Harrison, Ohio on August 25th.

Each day riders will stop for wreath laying ceremonies  at military memorials along the way.

Day three will end at Dalton Georgia. 

Day four will include a ceremony and light breakfast in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Day four will end in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

You don’t have to be a legion member to participate.  You don’t have to ride the entire route.  You can actually register and just meet the other riders in Bowling Green and ride from Bowling Green, KY to Harrison, Ohio.

Bob has placed a donation container at the Chatt Bar.  He thought it would be nice to raise donations and present them to the National Commander at the ceremony in Chattanooga, Tennessee. 

Just stop by the Chatt Bar and drop some loose change, a dollar or 2 in the container. He will appreciate it very much.  He even says that since the National Commander will only be a couple of hours from the Chatt Bar, he will invite the commander  to take a side trip and visit Chattanooga, Ohio and see some beautiful countryside.

If you want more information please contact Bob at 419-230-6863.

Bob also submitted the two items below:

Click Here for the Tour Map

Click Here for a published article written by Steve B. Brooks in the July 2016 American Legion Magazine

Ohio City Blue Ribbon Workers 4H Club Meets
The Ohio City Blue Ribbon Workers 4H club recently had a meeting on June 26th. The club talked about ideas for the booth and parade and decided to do a military theme. The demonstrations included Cayden  Karl on how to make cherry delight, Olivia Vaas on how to make a lava lamp, Abbi Marbaugh on how to blow up a ballon with a water bottle, Lexi Bowen on how to make slime, and Draya Rison on an easy way to eat snacks in the car. Reminder book fees are  to be turned in as soon as possible. Finish  up projects judging is July,14 for everything but livestock. 

Hannah Kraner – reporter

Assault Investigated in Ft. Recovery

Sheriff Jeff Grey reports his Office is investigating an assault that took place on July 25, 2016.  The incident was reported to the Sheriff’s Office shortly before 10:00 PM.  Arrested was 25 year old Nathan Frederick of 221 Lowry Road outside Fort Recovery.  Dispatch received a call from a mother indicating her 19 year old had been strangled by the 19 year old boyfriend.  The 19 year old victim indicated Frederick physically restrained her from being able to leave the residence.  The victim also reported Frederick pulled her hair and was choking her.  The victim indicated Frederick then retrieved a handgun and held it to his head and then threatened to shoot himself and the victim, and then discharged  the firearm inside the residence.

Frederick was arrested at his work place without incident.  Deputies then prepared and were granted a search warrant for the Lowry Road address.  The search warrant was executed on July 26, 2016 at 1:52 AM.  Deputies recovered a Ruger LCP .380 handgun along with one spent round and 5 live rounds.  Deputies also recovered drug paraphernalia which would include suspected marijuana pipes, an electric scale, suspected marijuana  residue, and a suspected marijuana grinder.

Fredrick is currently being held in the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility.  He was arrested on a unrelated warrant and charged with assault.  The case will be forwarded to the Mercer County Prosecutor for additional charges.

Duck Derpy Winning Ducks Announced by Wassenberg Art Center

First place ($1000) went to John Lianez of South Bend IN, second place ($400) to Kevin Taylor of Van Wert and third place ($100) to Michelle Gamble, also of Van Wert. Winner of the Lame Duck (dead last) went to Ben Laudick of Van Wert who won a bottle of wine provided by Collin’s Fine Foods. Our dedicated volunteer, Jayne Lianez of Van Wert sold the most ducks. A grand total of ducks sold for 2016 was 2170 quackers! We’d again like to thank our volunteers, attendees and sponsors for another fun and unusual event. We will see you next year!

4-Fridays Farm & Art Market starts this Friday! 4-Fridays returns again on August 5, 12, and 19 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Van Wert Health Department, Van Wert County Hospital and the Wassenberg Art Center will bring you a lunchtime market with live music, gourmet food vendors, art and entertainment. Each day will be filled with demonstrations, good eating and health information and one to two food vendors will be on-site to help make your lunchtime break a bit more fun. Art exhibits will open early with (as always) free admission. Sponsors for the event include: Lee Kinstle, Statewide Ford, Taylor Auto, Purmort Bros. Insurance, AgCredit, Van Wert County Hospital, and Greve Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge. Entertainment will include: 7/26 Pan Man Dan, sounds of the Caribbean on steel drum and High Five Lunch Gourmet Food Truck, on 8/5 Juxtapose – Classic Rock & blues, will pair up with Gibson’s BBQ and maybe more. August 12 will bring Dan Dickerson & the Harp Condition, and hooping artist Mikila will be selling professional hoops and providing demonstrations. Also on August 12, OSU instructor Stephan Takacs will be have his walk-in model of a Brownie camera on-site and will later at 6 p.m. give a more detailed presentation at the beginning of the Black Hills and Brownies opening reception. August 19 will feature Van Wert’s own Real Human Robot with some electronic tunes dance demos, mini lessons and yes, even line dancing!

Get in the Swing is still on display through August 6. Bidding is still open to obtain a one-of-a-kind artisan swing you can install in your yard. A functional and fun work of art. If you haven’t had a chance to come in for a swing, do so soon. While you are here, support the art center and the artists by bidding!

Mark Lanning Jr. driving from Sacremento, CA delivered his prints this past weekend for our upcoming exhibit, Black Hills & Brownies. While here, he made rounds around the area and photographed our community as well. This exhibit opens on August 12 and a free, public opening reception is scheduled for 6 p.m. with a presentation by Stephan Takacs of Columbus, with his walk-in Brownie in motion camera obscura. Following the presentation, Changing Elements Band will take the stage with their chill sounds. Black Hills & Brownies is an exhibit of two unlikely yet similar, young photographers from each end of the United States who refuse to let traditional techniques become extinct. These two photographers will exhibit their twists on traditional media of varying subjects. For more information on these national level photographers, visit our website or contact the art center.

OUR OLD BOOKCASE

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

Photo Caption:  Two references document the existence of “The Fort Recovery Record,” a newspaper or advertising agency at Fort Recovery.  Both documents are dated in the 1920’s.

The Historical Files of Jim Johnson, Fort Recovery Class of 1959, have provided us with a mystery related to a Fort Recovery’s newspaper, “The Fort Recovery Record.”.  Look at the two images above.  The letter from the Directors of the Mercer County Banner Fair Board wrote “Ft. Recovery Record, Ft. Recovery, Ohio,” on August 23, 1924, about advertising costs for the Fair.  The October 1, 1928 Envelope from the Republican State Headquarters at Columbus was addressed to “The Record, Fort Recovery, Ohio.”

For the October 12, 2012, “Our Old Bookcase,” I wrote about Mercer County’s Newspapers.  In reference to Fort Recovery’s newspapers, “The New Era” was begun in 1878.  The “Fort Recovery Times” was introduced in 1885.  The “Fort Recovery Journal” was established in 1890.  “The Fort Recovery Tribune-Journal” was listed in the 1921 Mercer County Directory.  There was at least one short run of a newspaper published at Fort Recovery.  I have no reference to “The Fort Recovery Record.”  Does anyone have any records of a Fort Recovery newspaper, known as “The Fort Recovery Record?”  If you have a paper documenting “The Fort Recovery Record,” and will permit me to make a copy of it for the Mercer County Historical Society’s Archival Collections, I will give you a free copy of the book, “Mercer County, Ohio, History of Maps, beginning in 1755.” 

For those who are dedicated to preserving Mercer County’s history, notice how important it is to save old letters and correspondence.  Note the importance of saving old envelopes for three reasons:  (1) the return address; (2) the name on the envelope, and (3) the post mark.  In addition to that, postage stamp collectors value the old letters.  I hope to see you at the 16th Annual Post Card & Post Mark Exhibit at the Mercer County Historical Museum on Sunday, November 13, 2016.

Dr. Hosbach Installed as President of American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians

Edward E. Hosbach II, DO, of Coldwater, was installed as president of Ohio ACOFP (American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians) during the Ohio Osteopathic Symposium in Columbus earlier this year.

Dr. Hosbach practices medicine at Mercer Health Medical Group at Fort Recovery and Mercer Health’s Wellness and Occupational Health Services clinic based at the Community Medical Center in Celina.  As an osteopathic family physician, he provides comprehensive health care to patients from the nursery to the nursing home. He strives to look at the “whole patient” and know them over a long period of time to promote preventive care and better manage chronic illnesses. He enjoys using his osteopathic manipulation skills to improve patient health, as well as doing office procedures such as joint injection and skin surgeries.

He also teaches medical students and residents as a clinical assistant professor for Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine (OU-HCOM). He is a 1987 OU-HCOM graduate and completed his internship and residency at Grandview Hospital in Dayton, where he was named Intern of the Year. Interestingly, his undergraduate degree is in electrical engineering.

A strong advocate for osteopathic family medicine, he has served on the Ohio ACOFP Board of Governors since 2001. As president, he will work to promote excellence in medicine through quality education, visionary leadership and responsible advocacy.

Dr. Hosbach and his wife Therese have four daughters: Beth, 26; Angie, 24; Janel, 21; and Kim, 19. When not working he enjoys golf and music. He is a strong believer that laughter is medicine, and emcees with humor at several local events. He is active in his community, serving as team physician for Ft. Recovery High School, on the County Board of Health, and as medical director for a local hospice organization.

Ohio ACOFP, founded in 1952, is a statewide professional organization based in Columbus. In Ohio, osteopathic physicians (DOs) represent 13 percent of practicing physicians and 26 percent of the state’s family physicians.

Upcoming Events in Rockford – Plan Now to Attend

 
July 25, 2016
 

Visit Shanes Park and sit around a hickory tree on our new circle
bench designed and constructed by Lowell Beougher and
Steve Thompson.   Lisa Kuhn says, “Thanks guys !” (Pictured are Lydia and Kylie enjoying some sun.)

Celina Police Report on Body of Rockford Woman Found in Celina

On Thursday, 7-21-16, at about 10:48 AM an officer from the Celina Police Department discovered the body of a woman identified as 34 year old Sondra M. Thatcher, of 604 W. Columbia St., Rockford, Ohio.  Her body was found in a woods near the east end of Industrial Drive.  The body has been transported to the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office at the request of Mercer County Coroner, Dr. Timothy Heinrichs for an autopsy.

Mrs. Thatcher (maiden name Bowling) had not been seen since Monday.  Police had been looking for her on behalf of family concerned about her welfare.  The investigation is pending and no further information will be released at this time.

Mrs. Thatcher's Obituary is posted on our Obituaries Link above.

Parkway Athletic Booster Club Membership Drive

The 2016-2017 Parkway Athletic Booster Club Membership Drive and Touchdown Ticket Raffle is currently underway. Packets were mailed out the second week of July. If you did not receive a packet and wish to receive one, please email Lisa Miller at millerli@parkwayschools.org. 

The Parkway Athletic Booster Club is a non-profit organization of alumni, parents, fans, and friends. We are dedicated to supporting 270 athletes in 23 school-sponsored teams in Grades 7-12. Money is raised through the annual Membership Drive, 5K Run, Touchdown Club, Golf Outing, and other fundraising activities. Volunteers make it ALL happen. Meetings are held the first Tuesday of each month during the school year at 7:00pm in the Parkway Community Room. Did you know that each team can “earn” money for their sport just by having a parent or other representative attend the monthly meetings? Also, be sure to like Parkway Athletic Booster Club on Facebook. 

Meet the Parkway Team Night Planned
The Athletic Department will host a Fall "Meet the Team" night on Wednesday, August 3 at 6:30 in the Auditorium. All fall athletes and parents are required to attend the general meeting which will be followed by parent / athlete team meetings with their respective coaches. Fans may also purchase season sports passes and athletic booster club memberships along with supporting the teams with the fundraisers available that include apparel, window decals, and cards for special deals at local restaurants and businesses. All Parkway fans are invited to attend as the Panthers prepare for the upcoming fall sports season.  

The next Rockford Bicentennial Committee meeting will be held on August 1st at 7 pm - Village Hall.  
The public is invited.

Missing Girl Found Drowned in Channel of Grand Lake St. Marys

Montezuma, OH-

Montezuma Fire Chief Ron Schulze reports that his department was dispatched to a missing child report at 6339 SR 703, just west of Montezuma at 7:34 AM on July 23, 2016.  Sheriff's deputies had been dispatched and it believed the child had wandered away from home early this morning.

Chief Schulze requested assistance from Chickasaw, Coldwater, Celina, St. Mary's Twp., St. Henry, Osgood, Burkettsville, South West Mercer, Mendon, and Rockford Fire Departments.  Also assisting were Mercer County Sheriff's Office, Auglaize County Sheriff's Office, ODNR-Division of Watercraft, MCERV, and Coldwater EMS.  Lutheran Air Ambulance also assisted with a helicopter.

Missing was Jade Riggs, age 10, from 6339 SR 703.  She was last seen around 5:30 when her grandfather left for work.  Over 90 responders searched the area woods, fields, and water.  At about 1:56 firefighters who were searching the channel located Jade deceased in the water.

It is believed that when she woke up she went outside.  She loved to go to the water and throw stones in.  It is believed that she fell in the water at that time.

The Montezuma Fire Department would like to thank all the Fire Departments and other agencies for their assistance.  "Although we would have preferred a different outcome, we appreciate the support of the public when we ask them to stay away and let us do our job," stated Chief Schulze.

 
July 20-24, 2016
 

St. John Lutheran Church Invites Children to Cave Quest VBS: Following Jesus, the Light of the World!

Celina, OH A summer kids’ event called Cave Quest VBS will be hosted at St. John Lutheran Church from Sunday, August 7th to Thursday, August 11th . At Cave Quest, kids explore what it means to follow Jesus through dark times. Kids participate in memorable Bible-learning activities, sing catchy songs, play teamwork-building games, dig into yummy treats, experience one-of-a-kind Bible adventures, and collect Bible Memory Buddies to remind them of Jesus’ love. Plus, kids will learn to look for evidence of God all around them through something called God Sightings.

Cave Quest is for kids from 3yrs to 6th grade and will run from 6:00 to 8:30pm each day. For more information, call 419-586-2332.

Ice Cream Social

Thursday, July 21, 2016

Serving from 4:30-7pm

Homemade ice cream, pies, cake, sandwiches and drinks

St. John Lutheran Church, Hopewell Township

9009 St. Rt. 118, Celina, OH

(Corner of St. Rt. 118 & Oregon Rd.)

Rockford United Methodist Church

           Annual Ice Cream Social

                  Sunday, July 31st

   Serving from 4:30p.m. -6:30 p.m.

in the Rockford UM Church Social Room







    Rockford United Methodist Church

     Breakfast on the Green at 9:00 a.m.

                   Sunday, August 14,

             With special musical guest:

               Tab Beechler at 10:00 a.m.

 
July 18-19, 2016
 

Rutledge Couple Celebrating 50th Wedding Anniversary

Keith and Anita Rutledge, of Rockford, OH 45822 recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a family trip to Orange Beach, Alabama. Keith Rutledge and Anita Adams were married 50 years ago on June 4, 1966 at Mt. Zion Bible Church. Bob Rutledge, brother of Keith, and Ruth (Ray) Copeland, friend, stood up with them. Keith is now retired from the Ohio Department of Transportation, and Anita is retired from Mercer County Probate Court.  They are lifelong members of New Horizons Community Church. Their two daughters are Kelly (Bryan) Sutton and Kristina (Brad) Keller. They have nine grandchildren. Keith and Anita also celebrated together earlier in the year with a trip for two to Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

Click on smaller thumbnails to enlarge.

Upcoming Events in Rockford – Plan Now to Attend

 
July 13-17, 2016
 

World Champion Pinewood Derby Racer – Cub Scout Taylor Dietsch
has Ties to Rockford

2016 Pinewood Derby World Champion and Edgerton, OH Pack 29 Cub Scout Webelo Taylor Dietsch, is just 11 years old, but he beat out racers in 40 states to win the title.

He built his racer, named Last Chance, from a regulation block of wood and created the best one, with the help of his dad, Jason Dietsch at his dad’s auto body shop in Edgerton - Jason Dietsch Collision and Customs in Edgerton. Aerodynamics through designing and carving as well as weight are all part of the skill sets needed to produce a winner.

Taylor, left at Times Square in New York at the end of June 2016, shows off his World Championship Trophies after competing against hundreds of other scouts for the top honor.

Accompanying him on were his parents, Jennifer (Taylor) and Jason Dietsch from Edgerton. Back in Rockford, Ohio, Grandma and Grandpa Dave and Kathy (Bollenbacher) of Rockford and Great-Grandpa Jerome Bollenbacher cheered him on to victory.

Otterbein Senior Lifestyle Community Hosting Blood Drive

On Tuesday, July 19, 2016, from 12:30 to 5:00 PM, The Otterbein Senior Lifestyle Community is hosting a Red Cross Blood Drive. According to the Red Cross, their supplies has gotten dangerously low due to many unexpected events across the nation this summer. The local community has gotten behind the call for blood. You can help too by giving at Otterbein. Simply call 1-800- RED-CROSS to register yourself or visit online at redcrossblood.org and use the sponsor code: otterbstmar

When you arrive, enter a drawing for a $25 gift card courtesy of Otterbein.

Otterbein is located at 11230 SR 364 on the East end of Grand Lake St. Marys.

The event will be held in the Meyer Community Room.

Rockford Car Show Donates $2,000 to Shanes Park in Rockford, OH

The Rockford Car Show was able to donate $2,000 to Shanes Park in Rockford, OH from the revenue that they received from the  car show that was held during Rockford Community Days on June 17, 2016. From left to right in the picture is Jerry Bolenbaugh (Car Show Coordinator), Joel Henkle (Rockford Recreation Association), Sandy Shaffner (Shanes Park Board), and Clete Schmidt (Car Show Director). These donations will be used to improve the Community Building and finish Diamond 5. Rockford appreciates your generosity! 

All-Twig Board Donates Money to Van Wert County Hospital

On June 27, the All-Twig Board of Van Wert County Hospital presented the hospital with a  check for $19,200.00. This donation is used to support patient‐centered initiatives. This year, the Twigs decided to use the money to purchase updated mammography software for the Radiology Department.  This software helps the radiologist and physicians to closely review mammogram studies.  The remaining monies will be put toward the cost of a new central monitoring system for the Obstetrics Department.  

"For over fifty years, the Twig group members have been raising money for the good of the hospital and community. We have an amazing group of women participating in various Twig projects, as we support each other in friendship and giving" stated Sharon Witten, All Twig Board President.

Twig groups I and II manage the Hospital Thrift Shop on Central Avenue, which also sells new RADA Cutlery.  Twig group II also sells poinsettias and will be taking orders in November and December again this year.  Twig group III manages the Hospital Gift Shop and the Tree of Lights community project at Christmas time.       New members are always encouraged to join and share their talents and passions with other volunteers.  Each group meets once a month and enjoys learning about hospital department services as well as community group resources.   

Pictured are Loretta Grove, Twig I chairperson; Sharon Witten, Twig II Chairperson and All Twig Board President, Mike Holliday, Chief Financial Officer;  Ella Jackson, Comptroller for the All Twig Board; and Nancy Farmer, Twig III representative

 
July 11-12, 2016
 

Parkway Open Gyms Begin

Girls B-ball open gyms Mon & Wed 6-8pm start July 11. Open to all ages. coaches available to work with younger girls on fundamentals

Check Schools Web Calendar for Gym assignment each day
Click Here: http://www.parkwayschools.org/calendars/calendar

Coldwater Man Impacts History: “James Grover McDonald” 

as told by area researcher Robert Rutschilling

Born in Coldwater, Ohio, November 29, 1886, James Grover McDonald led a life of worldwide significance though his name is only now gaining recognition in his birthplace and in Mercer County. While chairman of the U.S. Foreign Policy Commission, he attended the League of Nations meetings where he met world leaders and was appointed High Commissioner for European refugees. During trips to Germany, he witnessed Hitler’s rise to power and the German boycott of Jewish merchants. After meeting with Hitler, who disclosed his intentions against the Jews, McDonald revealed Hitler’s plans to President Franklin Roosevelt. How did FDR respond? How did other world leaders, and the Pope at that time, respond? Robert Rutschilling will present facts about this Coldwater native who fought political corruption in his homeland, who predicted WWII and who became the first U.S. Ambassador to Israel. The public is cordially invited to attend this Grand Lake Patriots program Thursday, July 14, at 7 PM in the Lefeld Community Building at the Fairgrounds in Celina.

 The Grand Lake Patriots would, also, like to congratulate winners of their coloring contest, done in conjunction with July 4th celebrations of our nation’s freedom. 1st Prize Winners of week-long ride passes at the Mercer County Fair are Noah Williams, Molly Meyer, and Joscelyn Dameron. 2nd Prize Winners of $25 cash are Maria Dirksen, Isaiah Meyer, and Kaylie Dameron. 3rd Prize Winners of Rush Revere books are Ella Shelby, Aliyah King, and Tori Schoen.  

LOTS FOR SOLDIERS TO BUILD HOME IN ROCKFORD
    

    
Lots for Soldiers, Inc. recently purchased the property located at 308 Holly Lane in Rockford with the help of  local donations.
    
Lots for Soldiers is a 501 ( c ) 3 not-for-profit organization formed to honor and thank those that have served in the United States armed forces.  The goal is to donate a residential lot and then act as a conduit for others to say thanks in tangible ways by offering affordable housing to current and former military service members.
    
The home in Rockford will be constructed by Rockford Construction.   At this time, we are soliciting our local community to join together to help with needed  labor, materials, and equipment to construct the home per plans.
    
Are YOU willing to help with this project?  Examples of  needed items:  Block foundation, concrete, vinyl siding, shingles, windows, doors, trim, heat pump, air conditioner, vanity, cabinets for kitchen and bathrooms, paint, flooring, etc.  This list is not all inclusive.
  
  You can help by sending a financial donation to:
  The Village of Rockford
  c/o Lots for Soldiers
  PO Box 282
  Rockford, OH  45882
    
You can also help by contacting the Rockford Village Office by mail or by 419-363-3032 ext 1 to give us a description of  what you  have to offer as a donation.  We will then put the information on a list. Donations will be discussed by a committee and then approved.   This is done so that we don’t get duplicate donations as there are several committees working on this project.
    
We also need to make note of those individuals that are willing to donate labor.  
    
The deadline to contact us will be August 1st.
    
Questions can be answered by Lots for Soldiers at 419-586-5058.
  
Community brings unity !

Catholic Social Services to hold 11th Annual
Pat Rupp Memorial Golf Tournament at NCR Country Club

Dayton, Ohio (July 8, 2016) – The 11th Annual Pat Rupp Memorial Golf Tournament, benefiting the programs of Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley (CSSMV), will be held on Monday, July 25, 2016, at the famed NCR Country Club in Kettering.

NCR Country Club has hosted some of the most recognizable championships in golf including the 1969 PGA Championship, the 1986 U.S. Women’s Open, the 1998 U.S. Mid Amateur, the 2005 U.S. Senior Open, and the 2013 USGA Women’s State Team Championship.

NCR is home to two golf courses designed by renowned architect Dick Wilson, who is credited with such historic designs as Bay Hill, Doral, and Laurel Valley. The challenging NCR South course, an extremely demanding par 71 layout covering 7,055 yards of wooded, rolling terrain, has long been considered a championship-caliber golf course and is currently ranked at #65 on Golfweek’s Top 100 Classic Courses list.

The Pat Rupp Memorial Golf Tournament is a regional event. Golfers can experience this championship course while supporting the good work of CSSMV in Shelby, Miami, Darke, Auglaize, Mercer, Montgomery, Greene and Preble Counties. CSSMV provides senior services, mental health counseling, early childhood programs, parenting classes, pregnancy counseling and other services throughout the region. The agency’s mission is to strengthen individuals and families, and its services are open to all faiths.

Tournament namesake Pat Rupp was, along with his family, a longtime supporter of Catholic Social Services. Pat served in the U.S. Marines and was also a professional hockey player, beginning his career in Manitoba and eventually coming to Dayton to play with the Dayton Gems. He played on two U.S. Olympic hockey teams (1964 and 1968). After his hockey career ended, he became a successful businessman in the financial services industry, settling in Dayton with wife Kathy, daughter Patti and son Tom. 

Pat believed in the work of Catholic Social Services and in giving back to the community. Upon his passing, his family started the golf tournament in his honor to help the agency continue its good works for years to come. His family continues to be involved in the annual event.

The day begins with registration and lunch at 11:30 a.m., followed by a shotgun start at 1:00 p.m. A cocktail hour and dinner will close the day. As a climax to tournament play, numbered golf balls will be dropped from the sky. The holder of the lucky number that goes in the cup or is closest to the pin will win half the proceeds from the 50/50 sale of the balls. 

The tournament has divisions for men and women; mixed teams will play in the men’s division. Team registration for a foursome is $900 and includes lunch, golf and cart, tournament apparel and dinner. Don’t have a team? Individuals are welcome at the cost of $225 and will be placed in a foursome. Non-golfers can purchase tickets for the golf ball drop for $20 each, and are invited to attend the dinner for $50.

To register securely online, visit cssmv.org/golf. For more information, call (937) 223-7217 ext. 1141.  

CHP Hospice ~ Rays of Hope Camp

Community Health Professionals (CHP) Hospice held its annual Rays of Hope day-camp for children and youth who have lost a loved one on June 14-15 at Camp Clay.

Losing a loved one is never easy, especially for a child. CHP’s Rays of Hope Camp offers a place where kids can learn how to deal with death and ask those tough questions.

"What we don't always realize as adults is when a child goes through a loss it's not just that dad passed away, but now maybe mom is working full-time when she used to be home, so now they're at a babysitter, maybe they have to move," said Kim Mason, Volunteer Coordinator.

Thanks to generous bidders at the CHP dinner/auction in April, the Noah Fund covered the cost of camp for all 28 kids, who participated in opportunities to learn about grief, make friends and enjoy crafts, games and activities like swimming, water park, splash pad, rock wall climbing, and zip line.

Other camp activities included Playing with Paint with Ginger Rahrig, animals from the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo and magic show with Tyler Nygren.

“Kids want to know its okay to have fun again, and so we plan a lot of fun activities,” said Mason. “That’s part of the healing process.”

Each day, groups led by hospice social workers took time to discuss feelings and share thoughts and emotions. Each participant also created a variety of crafts designed to be therapeutic and fun.

The camp concluded with a talk by Dr. Kathy Carr, PhD, clinical psychologist and Tony Richmond, CHP Hospice chaplain and musician, playing guitar and leading songs. A tree marked with a Rays of Hope Camp 2016 paver stone was planted and stones were left in memory of loved ones.

OUR OLD BOOKCASE

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

Photo Caption:  Skeel’s Crossroads Postmaster stamped their postmark “Skeel’s X Roads,” on this letter, dated Dec. 19,189_.  Two U.S. Post Offices were later established east of Skeel’s Crossroads.

Liberty Township Citizens are being requested to solve a Liberty Township Post Office History Mystery for the Mercer County Historical Society Archival Collections.

Skeels is a community, located at St. Rt. 49 and Skeels Rd., over four miles south of Chattanooga, in Liberty Township.  Skeels Cross Roads Post Office was established May 11, 1850, and was discontinued November 30, 1895.  [Watch the change of spelling here.]  Skeels Crossroads Post Office was established December 1, 1895 and discontinued on May 31, 1905 and the mail was sent to Celina.  Therefore, the above letter was postmarked between 1890 and 1895.

Price Post Office, was located at the NE corner of Burrville and Carmel Church Roads, which would identify the site three miles east and a half mile south of Skeels Crossroads, in Liberty Township.  On February 9, 1867, The First Assistant Postmaster General, Washington, wrote to Henry Dixon, Postmaster at Skeel’s Cross Roads, Liberty Township, Mercer County, Ohio, that the proposed Post Office would be called, “Price.”  Skeel’s X Road was about four miles distant, in a west direction from the proposed Price Post Office.  On February 17,1867, the Price Post Office was established; this date is consistent with John Gallagher and A. Patera’s book, “The Post Offices of Ohio,” published at Burtonsville, MD, by The Depot in 1979.   Gallagher and Patera state that the Price Post Office was discontinued on August 23, 1880, and the mail was then sent to Skeels X Roads.  The Village of Price appears on the Liberty Township map, in the 1888 “Atlas of Mercer County, Ohio,” edited by B.N. Griffing, published by Griffing, Gordon Co., Philadelphia, PA.

Clover or Scudder Post Office was located  at the intersection of Skeels and Wabash Road.

Have you Liberty Township Citizens ever heard of the Clover Post Office? May 21, 1889, A.E. Stevenson, First Assistant Postmaster General, Washington D.C.  wrote Thos. McKee, Postmaster of Wabash, Mercer County, Ohio,  requesting information about the proposed Post Office, Clover.  On June 9, 1889, Thos. McKee responded to the Post Office at Washington D.C., with the information.  However, where the name of  “Clover” was assigned to the proposed Post Office, someone took an ink pen and drew a dark line through the word, “Clover,” and wrote the name of the Post Office, as “Scudder.”  McKee went on to write that the nearest Post Office to the proposed Post Office on the same route, was Skeels Crossroads, a distance of two miles west of the proposed Post Office.  The Village of Scudder was located on Skeels Road, at the intersection of Wabash Road.  Scudder Post Office was established October 19, 1889, and discontinued August 31, 1903, and the mail was transferred to Celina.

As you readers know, many of the small rural post offices were closed when Rural Free Delivery (RFD) was established and the mail was delivered to the rural mail boxes at country homes, in years after 1900.

I have been trying to acquire an envelope or post card, with post marks of each post office in Mercer County.  I neither have a post mark from Price, nor Scudder.  Would you readers have any old envelopes or post cards with post marks from these two small Post Offices in Liberty Township?  If so, may I make a copy of that envelope or post card with either of those post marks for the History Archives?

An exhibit of old letters or post cards, marked from these small rural village post offices would make a great exhibit for the Post Card Exhibit at the Mercer County Historical Museum, on Sunday November 13.  If you find a post mark from Price or Scudder, I will give you a free “Liberty Township Passport to History Book.” 

 
July 9-10, 2016
 

PARKWAY LOCAL BOARD Of EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING

Planned for July 12, 2016

6:30 P.M.

Parkway Schools Community Room, Rockford, OH

Click here for the agenda by Sally Cox

 
July 5-8, 2016
 

Photo of Hannah in Bucharest Hungary

Former Rockford resident, Hannah Neely Ford, daughter of Steve and Stacie Ford recently returned form a mission trip to Romania.

Hannah serves as the University of Cincinnati Navigator Coordinator, and the trip was part of her work in serving God and college students at home and overseas. While on her trip, she connected with college students, taught English lessons; and volunteered at a home for children with special needs and at a home for abused and neglected children.

ATTENTION: In regard to the Van Wert Area Community Concert Band Friday July 8th 7PM Concert in the park.

Incase of inclement weather the concert will be moved to the Commercial Building on the Van Wert Fairgrounds. We will try to make the call sometime early in the day. Information will be posted on this page as well as WERT-1220AM, WKSD 99.7FM, WCSM 96.7 FM, WRKD 101.3, and WDOH 107.1.

You will still need to bring your lawn chairs (or in this case, cement chairs). The Washington St. RT.127 entrance to the fair is closed so from the South, enter the Fairgrounds off of Fox Road or from the North enter off of W. Ervin Road.

The Shanes Crossing Historical Society is helping plan the Rockford Bicentennial in 2020. Meetings have been held and continue to be held as preparatory events are taking place and volunteers are working on many projects. Two community meals have been sponsored already, and Bicentennial Logo T-shirts will soon be on sale as a fund raiser.

The Quilting Club is preparing a Bicentennial Quilt to be raffled off during the event, and a New Year's Eve Ball is being planned to kick off the 2020 year. Another volunteer is making a downtown street map of the buildings and the businesses and dates that have inhabited them.

New Donations: Carol McGillvary donated her father's Navy Uniform (Willard B. Dilbone).

Martha Baltzell donated a scrapbook from George J. and Bessie Kinder that has pictures and thank-you notes of the more than 75 people who met at their home on Oak Street for breakfast for the Sesquicentennial Celebration in 1970. Some of the esteemed guests were New York columnist Earl Wilson; United States House of Representative Tennyson Guyer; Paul Henkle; and Mabel and Enoch Kimmel. Mike Schumm donated a metchbook cover from Fegley's Cafe saying "Where all Good Fellows Meet". Terry Joseph donated a medical gurney that was used in the Vietname War and an Uncle Sam poster as he points with the saying "I Want You For The U S Army".

Jack and Phyllis (Baumgartner) Rutledge celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on June 9, 2016. Their children include: Rhonda, Kim, Jeanene, Rick and Rob. They are also blessed with thriteen grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

American Red Cross Issues Plea for Blood Donations

The American Red Cross has a significant blood shortage and is issuing an emergency request for eligible blood and platelet donors of all blood types to roll up a sleeve now and help save lives. Make an appointment to give blood by downloading the Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Donna Kueterman, Director of Laboratory Services at Mercer Health states, “We have been at well below stock here at Mercer Health on all blood types for quite some time.  We encourage donors to take advantage of the many opportunities to donate blood here locally and help save lives right here at Mercer Health.”

The next drives to be held at Mercer Health include:
September 9th, 2016 - 12 noon to 5 p.m.
December 30th, 2016 - 12 noon to 5 p.m.

Twenty-First Century Club Meets in May
The Twenty-First Century Club met on May 24, 2016 at the Central Insurance building in Van Wert, OH.  The evening began with a tour of the very interesting Central Insurance Fire Museum which was organized by member Cindy Canary.  Carly Fortman served as  tour guide sharing an informative commentary about the items in the museum which included world wide memorabilia, a collection of leather fire buckets dating back to the 1700’s, over 600 antique fire toys, a large display of fire extinguishers, and a variety of fireman hats. Members loved the tour.

A short meeting was help by outgoing president Twyla Hayes

Twyla. gave an update of the Rockford Bicentennial planning committee. They will possibly be organizing a formal tea and Twyla brought samples of some T-shirt designs to commemorate the celebration. She then turned the program (spotlighting Van Wert, OH) over to Julie Henkle and Cindy Canary.

Julie Henkle, presented her part of the program with a review of how the Children’s Garden at Smiley Park was created.  It was a Master Gardener’s project and multiple individuals and businesses sponsored many of the displays.  This garden was one of the first of its kind and not only includes fun things for children to do but is also very educational.  

Cindy did a presentation on the history of the Brumback Library which was named for benefactor John Sandford Brumback. This library was the first free public library in the area and was supported by tax money.  The existing building was dedicated in 1901 and it’s most recent update was completed in 1991.  The Library has earned spots on the National Register of Historic Places and the Ohio Historical Society listings.

Valerie Fritzinger completed her program for the April meeting and discussed the Cross Tip Churches of southern Mercer County. Members were amazed by the number of churches in a small area.

Delicious refreshments were prepared by Sherry Shaffer and Valerie Fritzinger. 

If you are a woman interested in joining this art and literary club, please contact Sheila at 419-733-3326.

Click on smaller thumbnail pictures below to enlarge them.

Writers Wanted
The Stateline Writers Club will meet at the Mercer County District Library on Saturday, July 16, 2016, from 10:00 am until noon.  Those attending are invited to write a composition about a social issue.  If time permits, there will also be a presentation on the clear use of modifiers (the second of two lessons).  The public is invited to attend.  

Calvary Preschool Tour and Sign-up Coming

Summer Sign up for Calvary Preschool fall session will be held on July 20 from 1:00 – 5”00 p.m.

Parents may tour the facility and have questions answered during this session.  Classes are for ages 3 through prekindergarten.  Classes are filling quickly so the staff urges you to register soon to have your choice of days.  Currently the classes for three year-olds are on Tuesday and Thursday, with a possibility of an additional class on Monday and Friday.  Four year-old classes are currently scheduled for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, or Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The Pre-K Plus (five year-olds) meets Monday through Thursday.  All classes are from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. on the scheduled day.  Extended care is available beginning at 7:30 a.m.  Registration information is available on the Calvary Evangelical Church website under the preschool tab.  For additional information, call Marilyn Agler at 567-259-3103.

 
July 1-4, 2016
Happy Independence Day!

 

Celebrating Our Independence - Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy

Much has changed for our nation since gaining our independence in 1776, however one thing that hasn’t changed is the pride and patriotism that Americans have for living in the greatest country on Earth.

Not only are we lucky enough to call the greatest country home, but we are also able to call Ohio home, a state where pride and patriotism are rooted deep in our Midwest culture. As Ohioans, we embody the definition of American; hardworking, selfless and unwavering in our love for our country.

These qualities can also be seen throughout our men and women in the military. Without these American heroes, we would not be able to celebrate our nation’s independence 240 years later. Countless brave military members have fought to preserve our Ohio values that we hold dear, something I am always reminded of every Fourth of July.

Our founding fathers also embodied the true meaning of being an American. They demonstrated courage and determination by fighting for their principles; life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Because of their fight, these American principles continue to endure as the bedrock of this great nation.

From our founding fathers to our military veterans, to the Midwest spirit found right here in western Ohio, we all have a deep love and admiration for our country in common. I am incredibly thankful to live in this nation and to represent the best constituents and American citizens as your state representative.

This year, I hope you are able to share my enthusiasm in embracing our American patriotism. Whether you are celebrating right here in western Ohio, or traveling to be with loved ones, I wish you and yours a very happy Fourth of July!

Rockford Chamber President Graduates from Leadership Training

Congratulations to Rockford Chamber President, Mary Beougher, for recently graduating from the Mercer County Leadership in Action program. The Mercer County program was designed by the Celina- Mercer County Chamber of Commerce in 1995 to inspire and develop emerging leaders by educating them on the issues, opportunities, strengths and challenges within the Mercer County Area and to increase the quality and quantity of men and women capable of accepting leadership rols in various community organizations.

If you are a Rockford Chamber member and interested in the Leadership in Action program, please call the Village office at 419-363-3032 ext 1.  Classes begin in September.

Come to Vacation Bible School - Bible Boot Camp

Olive Branch Church will have a two day VBS Bible Boot Camp this Friday and Saturday, July 8th and 9th from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.  Kids ages 4 through entering 6th grade are invited to “fall in” and experience being a soldier in the Lord’s Army.  It's war out there, and VBS Bible Boot Camp is a call to arms to join the Lord's Army. There is no middle ground.  You're either a soldier of Christ (the Commander-in Chief), or a POW of the enemy!  At Bible Boot Camp, recruits will learn to battle their own sin nature, learn how to equip themselves for daily battle, and learn how to march against the darkness with the Gospel, advancing on the enemy and helping to claim territory for the name of Christ!   Free army hats and dog tags will be given to all the kids.  A free lunch will be provided each day.  Olive Branch is located between Ohio City and Rockford on State Route 118.  If you have questions call 419 203-7723.

Lake Festival 5K

Registrations for the Lake Festival 5K run in Celina are being taken now at the Celina-Mercer County   Chamber of Commerce. 

The 5K run, a fundraiser for the Celina-Mercer County Chamber of Commerce, will be held Saturday
 July 23, 2016 at 8 A.M. The 5K begins at Lake Shore Park in Celina with the course traversing along West Bank Road.  This race is part of the Mercer Health 5K Challenge running series. 

The deadline to pre-register is July 21.  Pre-registration is $12.00 without a running tech shirt and $23.00 with a running tech shirt till July 6th   After July 21st and up to the day of the race, registration is $15.00 without a shirt.  If still available, running tech shirts can be purchased that morning for $10.

Trophies will be awarded to the top three male and female runners with an award of a $100.00 for a course record.  Medals will be awarded to first, second and third place in each age group with special awards to be given to the runner coming from furthest distance, the youngest and oldest runner.

There will be water on the course, splits at 1 mile and 2 mile marks.  Refreshments will be served at the finish.

Thanked are the following sponsors:  State Farm Brian Stephan, Dynamic Federal Credit Union,
Celina Insurance Group, F45 Training,  and Mercer Savings Bank. 

Registration forms are available online at www.celina-mercer.com or
 www.mercer-health5kchallenge.com or at the local chamber office at 121 E.Logan Street, Celina.

For more information call the chamber at 419-586-2219. 

4-H Club Meets
Venedocia Lads and Lassies Update: News Reporter Avery Mueller

The Venedocia Lads and Lassies held their last meeting on June 23 at the Venedocia Lions club.  Pledges were led by Andrew Bockey.  Allison Bowser, Ella Wilson and Andrew Bocky presented a health report . Keaton Adkins and Luke Bockey had a safty report and Chloe Kroeger had a demonstration.  The club has been talking about saving bottle caps and other plastics and once a certain amount of pounds is collected we will get another bench made similar to the one donated last year. Non-livestock project judging(cooking, scrapebooking, archery etc) will be held July 14th at the Van Wert school. Livestock project judging will be held July 25th 3-7p at the Vantage Career Center. Further information for the project judging dates and times will be sent in the mail. The next meeting will be held on July 14th at the Venedocia Lions Club at 7p.m.

Ohio State University Extension to Hold Northwest Ohio Precision Ag Sprayer Clinic August 9th

Author:  Eric Richer, OSU Extension Educator, Agriculture and Natural Resources

Farmers, retailers and crop consultants interested in seeing the latest sprayer equipment and precision application technology for commercial agriculture are encouraged to attend the Tuesday, August 9th NW Ohio Precision Ag Sprayer Day at the Fulton County Fairgrounds, State Route 108, Wauseon. The event will offer 3.5 hours of commercial and private pesticide recertification credits in CORE and categories Private 1 and Commercial 2c. The event will also offer five hours of Certified Crop Advisor credits.

In the morning, attendees will hear sessions on nozzle selection and drift reduction.  There will also be a hands on session for sprayer calibration and adjustment. Ohio State specialists Greg LaBarge and Dr. Erdal Ozkan will help resource the morning sessions.  Additionally there will be an aerial application flyby by Gaerte Ag Service for all participants to see.  Finally, industry partners will offer their input on improved pesticide technology through a sponsor panel prior to lunch. 

In the afternoon, there will be live pull-type and self propelled sprayer demonstrations from the following agricultural equipment partners:

Hardi Sprayers (Kahrs Tractor Sales) – pull type sprayer stability

KFG/John Deere – Direct Injection & Boom Trac demo

Archold Equipment – Top Air pull type with ATV demo

Ohio Ag Equipment/Rogator – Sprayer cleanout and section control

Capstan Ag/OSU-ATI – Pulse Width Modulation demo

This event is from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and open to the public.  Registration is $25 prior to August 1st or on site for $40.  For a complete agenda and registration form, see www.fulton.osu.edu. The Fulton County Fairgrounds are located at 8591 State Route 108, Wauseon, OH 43567. Questions related to this program can be directed to richer.5@osu.edu or call the Fulton County OSU Extension office at 419-337-9210.

The NW Ohio Precision Agriculture Day is one of many statewide agriculture industry events through the OSUE Ag Managers Team (ohioagmanager.com) and OSUE Ag Crops Team (agcrops.osu.edu) this summer.  For a complete list of statewide events see www.agcrops.osu.edu/calendar website.

 
June 30, 2016
 

Jane Avery’s Memory Honored with Renaming of Facility in Ft. Wayne
Brother Tom and Sister-in-law Judy Avery of Rockford Attend Ceremony

In memory and honor of Rockford native, the late Jane Avery, Ft. Wayne’s Community Harvest Food Bank recently renamed the Tillman Road facility “The Jane Avery Distribution Center”. She had been their long-time Executive Director. Jane, a Parkway High School graduate of 1971, passed last July 2015 after a battle with stage 4 brain cancer. The renaming of the facility came after looking at Jane’s nineteen years of leadership, where the food bank grew to distribute nearly 13 million pounds of food to more than 90,000 people annually.

Above: The ceremony is led by Community and Food Bank Leaders.

She had proven herself as a compassionate leader and in 2011, Ft. Wayne Mayor Tom Henry awarded Avery with the Key to the Fort for her commitment to the community. She was also awarded the 2015 Sagamore of the Wabash Award, presented by Governor Mike Pence for distinguished service.


Above: Flanked by Leaders of Community Harvest from left are daughter Beth Anne, Jane's husband, Bill Hoover, and daughter Allison.

At the renaming service, the CEO of Community Harvest, John Wolf, said, “Over the past twelve years, I was blessed to work with Jane. Her enthusiastic personality and warming smile are missed each and every day. This dedication is a tribute to an individual who treated everyone with dignity and respect.”

Above: Family shown left to right: Mr. and Mrs. Hicham Mannir and son; Jane's daughter, Allison Avery with fiance, Chase; Jane's brother and sister-in-law, Tom and Judy Avery; Jane's husband Bill Hoover; daughter, Beth Anne Mannir with friend Rusty. Daughter Maureen "Mo" Jeffrey was unable to attend.
 

The Food Bank administrators and employees were in attendance, as well as Jane’s family and the Community Harvest Board of Directors. The dedication ceremony was held at 999 East Tillman Road in Fort Wayne on Tuesday, June 14th, at 4:00pm

Jane Avery was known as a compassionate woman who respected all individuals.

Community Harvest Board Member and District Manager for Kroger Chris Gomez said “She truly made an impact on everyone she met.” Jane’s leadership took her to Feeding America national committees and food bank work groups, where she served as chairperson for the Feeding America Central Region network, which represented nearly half of Feeding America’s food banks. Jane worked on national programs and disaster relief efforts and became a trusted advisor to leaders on the 2008 Farm Bill. Because of this national work, she was, in 2009, presented with the “Distinguished Hoosier Award” by then Governor Mitch Daniels, and in 2010 named a finalist for the Indiana Torchbearer Award. In 2011, she was named the Journal Gazette’s 2008 “Citizen of the Year.”

As a child growing up in Rockford, Jane helped out in her parents’ local grocery store. Working alongside her brothers and sister, she once said she learned about managing food from her family’s guiding hand. After high school, she went on to attend Saint Francis College in Fort Wayne (BA in Social Work) and then Taylor University in Fort Wayne for an MBA.  She worked at Lutheran Hospital of Fort Wayne (where she managed the ElderMed Program), Catholic Charities, and parish work at the former Saint Paul's Catholic Church in downtown Fort Wayne before she took on the long-time Executive Directorship of Community Harvest Food Bank (CHFB) of Northeast Indiana. Avery is survived by her husband, Bill Hoover, and her daughters Elizabeth Mannir, Mo Jeffrey and Allison Avery.

Thank you to Deb (Bollenbacher) Reichard and Beckie (Bollenbacher) McMillen for recommending this dedication to one of Rockford’s own.
Thank you to Tom and Judy Avery for the pictures.

 Click here for Jane’s obituary.

12^th   Annual Shane’s Crossing 5k Run/Walk

Saturday, July 16th 2016
8:30 A.M.
Rockford, Ohio

Race Location:           Starts and ends at Shane’s Park, 705 W. Front Street, Rockford, OH.

Times:                         Pre-registration post marked by July 8, 2016

                                    Day of Race Registration begins at 7:30 A.M.

                                    Opening Ceremonies begin at 8:15 A.M.

Entry Fee:                   $22 Pre-Registered – Includes T-Shirt

                                    $12 Pre-Registered – Without T-Shirt

                                    $15 Day of Race – Without T-Shirt

                                    $10 T-Shirt Only – Limited Supply

                                    $5 Pre-Registered & Day of Race for anyone 14 & Under

*Make checks payable to Parkway Athletic Boosters and mail entries to:       

Steve Fisher,  3953 Purdy Rd,   Rockford OH  45882

                                    For more information: Call 419-305-2080
                                        or Email sfisher@jtdmh.org

Results:                       Available online at: www.mercerhealth5kchallenge.com

Awards:                      Awards to the top 3 overall, male and female,

and top 3 in each age group.

Course:                       Flat, beautiful course – time each mile, water stop.

                                    Records:          Male – Brendon Moody          15:18

                                                            Female – Melissa Lehmen      18:23

Door Prizes:                All door prizes donated by generous sponsors.  Must be present to win.

Age Groups:               14 & Under, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44,

                                    45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-Over (Male & Female)

Race Director:           Steve Fisher  -  Parkway Athletic Boosters

                                    Proud participant of the Mercer Health Countywide 5k Challenge

Click Here to open and print the entire entry form

Second National Bank commits $25,000 to Mercer Health’s
Building on a Promise campaign to support West Wing Addition

Recently, Second National Bank committed $25,000 to Mercer Health’s Building on a Promise campaign to support its west wing addition.  Mercer Health continues to thank all those that have come forward to support the Building on a Promise and the expansion project.  Set to open in 2018, the estimated 54,000 square foot addition is necessary in order to meet the healthcare needs of the community including adequate and improved surgical areas, all private inpatient rooms and enhanced outpatient spaces. 

For more information on the expansion or the affiliated Building on a Promise capital campaign, contact Mindy Kremer, Senior Director of Development, Marketing or Community Relations.

Enjoy Old Fashioned Farmers' Days June 30th through July 3rd.

Visit online at www.oldfashionedfarmersdays.com

See ad at the top of the page
 

2nd Annual Town Creek Live coming to Van Wert

The Wassenberg Art Center and Main Street Van Wert will host its 2nd Annual Town Creek Live (formerly Eats on the Streets) festival and will feature 11) gourmet food trucks, a duck “derpy” where participants have a chance to win $1000, $400, $100 and other prizes as ducks race down Van Wert’s Town Creek. The event will feature 2) outdoor bands Dan Smythe Ban of Fort Wayne, The Holbrook Brothers Band of Montpelier and local DJ Real Human Robot. Musicians performing inside the art center are Sam Dell, Bryan and Aubrey Gebert, Van Wert. Throughout the event street performers and buskers such as Pyroscope of Fort Wayne will be performing, including a magician, caricaturist, art activities for children, an outdoor pop-up art exhibit and an interactive art exhibit entitled “Get in the Swing” will feature functional artist decorated swings hanging from the Wassenberg Art Center’s gallery and walls. Swings will be sold via silent auction and the winning swing, determined by popular vote will be installed on the Wassenberg Art Center grounds and the artist will receive $200. Beer, wine and other spirits will be available during the event on the art center grounds. 

The Second Annual Duck “Derpy” will launch at 6:15 p.m. with duck sales ending at 5 p.m. Interested persons are encouraged to purchase ducks early as supplies are limited. Ducks can be purchased at the Wassenberg Art Center, Straley Realty, Main Street Van Wert, Open Minded, Ink Again, and online at: http://www.wassenbergartcenter.org/announcements/duckderpy

A portion of the duck derby proceeds will be donated to The Recking Crew, a local high school athletic booster club. Event sponsors are Braun Ambulance; Harvest the Wind, Long Prairie Wind, NWO Beverage, Van Wert County Commissioners and the Van Wert County Foundation.

 
June 28-29, 2016
Parkway Independent - Celebrating 11 years of bringing news to the Parkway area communities.

 

Thank you to Henkle Insurance for being our PWI weather sponsor!
Thank you to Michelle Agler for sharing the rainbow pictures after the rainstorm
 on Sunday evening, June 26, 2016. It dumped 1/2 inch of rain and left gorgeous skies.

Click on smaller thumbnail pictures below to enlarge

Road to Close for Culvert Replacement
The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Kuck Road between Garwick Road and Fisher Road in Center Township for a culvert replacement.  This road will be closed tentatively on June 29, 2016 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 3-4 weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

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

 
June 27, 2016
 

Fun & Fitness Fridays - at Shane's Park

Fun & Fitness Fridays is open to youth entering grades 4-7 and will take place on the Friday mornings of July 1st, 8th and 15th from
9-10 am at Shane's Park. Fun & Fitness campers will learn from current running coaches, athletes and alumni. Campers will get to stretch,
walk, jog, run and play games! Fun for all fitness levels! All schools welcome! Cost of the camp is $30, which includes a camp t-shirt and entry into the Shane's Crossing 5K Run/Walk, which is the morning of  Saturday, July 16th. Campers should bring a water bottle and wear
tennis shoes to camp each day. Registration Deadline is June 25th.

To register download and print a registration form here: https://www.scribd.com/doc/315890556/Fun-Fitness-Fridaysorgo to
the Rockford Recreation Facebook page and download the registration form.  

For additional info, contact Jennifer Barrett 419-605-7305.

Stoneco Celina Quarry recently donated 3 books on Rocks and Minerals to the Parkway Elementary library .  Shown in photo are: Parkway school 3rd grade students with librarian Abbie Hathaway and Stoneco representative Robin Kraner .  

Rockford Council Meets to Discuss Proposed Subdivision
Golf Cart / ATV Rules Reminder

 Click here to read the Rockford Council News for this and other council business.

Sign-Up For Wren Rib Roast Cook-off

It’s Rib Cook-off time again!  The 13th Annual Wren Rib Roast Cookoff will be held on Saturday, August 20, 2016 during the Homecoming festivities.  This year’s theme will be “Southern Family BBQ”.  Cooks are asked to consider a regional flare from their favorite Southern city or state for the contest.

Contestants will need to provide any equipment necessary. Western-style pork ribs will be provided to each contestant on the Thursday before the contest. All types of spices, marinades, and “secret recipes” are encouraged.  All types of cookers and any fuel sources will be accepted.  Cooking will take place outside the Wrenway Wiffleball Park, with judging starting at 11:30 am.  Ribs will be judged on taste and tenderness.  A separate prize will be given for presentation, sauce and best side dish.  For the second year, a “People’s Choice” award will once again be presented. Visiting rib enthusiasts can enter a drawing to be one of two “celebrity judges”.  All ribs must be prepared on-site the day of the contest.

Company Donates

Big Brothers Big Sisters would like to thank the Nerium Company for their $10,000.00 match during our recent Bowl for Kids Sake.  Nerium, an anti-aging company, founded in 2011 is the largest donor to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. This is the first time Nerium matched Big Brother Big Sisters of Mercer, Auglaize and Van Wert Counties and it is the largest match.  Also, 30% of Nerium’s proceeds go toward medical research.  Ty and Stacey Leffler, Jodi Veit and Sherri Hodge who are Brand Partners were very instrumental in securing these funds to help our local program.

Two Wonderful Bands Combine for One BIG Show on July 8th
Scott Turner and Paula Linn Featured Soloists
St. Mary’s Community Band To Join The Van Wert Area Community Concert Band for Concert In The Park On Friday July 8, the Van Wert Area Community Concert Band will be joined by the St. Mary’s Community Band for a joint concert in the band shell of Fountain Park in Van Wert, Ohio. Each band will perform individually, and then close the concert combined for two Patriotic selections. Retired St. Mary’s High School director

Dane Newlove (above)  with the help of the current St. Mary’s band director Craig French formed the St. Mary’s Band. Both bands that are guaranteed to please all listeners will perform a variety of music.

The Van Wert band will feature two of their members Paula Linn and Scott Turner, on a piano

duet titled Spiritual Rhapsodies. A caution to our audience that we have been having some problems with these two musicians concerning who should have top billing and dominate the spot light. A food stand will be available prior to the concert provided by the District Eastern Star beginning at 5:30. Please join the bands featuring over 100 members from a 5 county area for this special concert. In the event of inclement weather, we will try to move the concert to an indoor venue to be announced. Please listen to the local radio station for this information. The Van Wert Band will also perform at the Van Wert Museum July 4th from 1:00- 2:00 P.M.

2016 PAYNE BALL ASSOCIATION ALL-STAR TOURNAMENT PRESS RELEASE

The Payne (Ohio) Ball Association will be hosting two all-star tournaments the weekend of July 8, July 9 and July 10 at the Payne Community Park.

A boys 8 & under coach-pitch baseball tournament will be played with teams guaranteed three games in the tournament.

Also, a girls 8 & under coach-pitch softball tournament will take place on those three days as well with all teams guaranteed to play three games.

Individual awards will be award after each game as well as the top two teams will be recognized with individual awards to all players.

For more information, please contact Kevin Wannemacher at (419) 399-7243 or wannie8@frontier.com. Registration and payment must be received to confirm your spot.

 
June 25-26, 2016
 

Taste of Celina 

A Taste of Celina Block Party and Car Show is scheduled for Friday, July 8th
in downtown Celina.  The festivities begin at the corner of Main and Market
Streets and go south to Warren Street.   From 5 -10pm, you will be able to
taste the unique specialties of several different Celina restaurants and
caterers.  Each restaurant will serve 3 or 4 different specialties.  Each
food item will take between 1 and 4 tickets.  Presale tickets are on sale at
the Celina Mercer County Chamber office located at 121 East Logan Street in
Celina.  The Chamber office is in a new location west of Lakeview Liquor
Store and east of Hazelnut Coffee Company.  Tickets will also be on sale
that evening but you may have to stand in line.  At the Chamber office, the
first 2000 tickets will be sold at a buy 20 tickets and get 1 ticket free
promotion.  

Plenty of tables and chairs will be set up in the street.  There will also
be music in the street as well as music inside some of the downtown
restaurants.  Beer and wine tasting will also be available inside some of
the downtown restaurants.   Several local establishments will be open after
the event closes with special entertainment.  After eating, feel free to
browse through the unique specialty shops.  Again this year at the south end
of Main Street is the cruise in car show.

For more information, call the Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce
at 419-586-2219.   Visit www.celinamercer.com to see a food menu and list of
participating food vendors. 

Hospital Listed in Top 100

“Our strong local communities are a result of strong community services including education and healthcare.  Here at Mercer Health we take our responsibility as stewards of community health very seriously.  Nearly 2,100 hospital systems fall into the rural category and we are pleased to fall in the top 100,” shares Klenke. 

In addition, Mercer Health landed on Becker's Hospital Review, 100 Great Community Hospitals for 2016.  Becker’s is the leading hospital magazine for hospital business news and analysis for hospital and health system executives.  Becker's has published a version of this list annually since 2011. This is the fifth year the list has included 100 hospitals. For the purposes of this list, Becker's defines a "community hospital" as one with fewer than 550 beds that have minimal teaching programs.

A release from Becker’s states, “The hospitals on this list are spread across the country, some not far from major metro areas and some in rural communities. Regardless of location or whether they are affiliated with a major system, these hospitals are vital parts of their respective communities.”

The Becker's editorial team selected hospitals for inclusion based on rankings and awards from organizations including iVantage Health Analytics, Truven Health Analytics, Healthgrades, CareChex, the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the Leapfrog Group. Included organizations have earned recognition from one or more of these organizations.    The list of the 100 Great Community Hospitals and more information can be found at www.beckershospitalreview.com.

George Boyles, Senior Vice President and CFO states, “To be included in the Becker’s list is outstanding.  To be considered among the top in the nation is a major distinction.  Our team is definitely among the best and we thank them for the outstanding service they provide to our community.”

OUR OLD BOOKCASE

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

Photo Caption:  Paul Leasor, St. Marys, and Werner Schmiesing, Minster, were comparing notes about their Pre-Historic Artifact Collections on June 27, 2010, at the Mercer County Historical Museum, Celina.  The public is invited to the June 26, 2016 Artifact Exhibit & Homecoming Celebration.

Welcome to the Homecoming Celebration of the Mercer County Indian Relic Collectors at the 36th Annual Prehistoric Artifact Exhibit, at the Mercer County Historical Museum, 130 East Market, Celina, on Sunday, June 26, 2016, 1:00 – 4:00.  The word “artifact,” means “any piece made by human work.”  Therefore, the Prehistoric Artifacts are prehistoric tools made by prehistoric man, thousands of years ago.

Hundreds of Flint Arrowheads; Slate Pendants, Gorgets and Bannerstones; Bird Stones; Stone Axes and Hammerstones; Celts; Adzes, and other artifacts will be on exhibit.  The Mercer County Indian Relic Collectors are showing their own private collections of Artifacts, which is a One-Of-A-Kind Exhibit. 

The Native Americans used these Artifacts, between 1000 and 10,000 years ago, following the Ice Age in North America.  These tools show the skill, knowledge, and craftsmanship of their trade. Sometimes, we forget to give credit to the early Native Americans for creating stone tools and practicing their survival skills.  These Native Americans deserve our respect as they lived here for thousands of years. 

BYOA!  Bring Your Own Artifacts to this June 26th Sunday afternoon Exhibit, and ask the Expert Collectors for information about your Artifacts.  This is not the Antique Road Show as seen on television. This is the Prehistoric Artifact Exhibit Road Show at 130 East Market Street, Celina, at the Mercer County Historical Museum.

The only other Prehistoric Exhibit at the Mercer County Historical Museum is the Prehistoric Elk exhibit, from Cranberry Prairie.  This particular Elk was the “one who got away,” when a Prehistoric Hunter hit the Elk with a spear point, but the Elk disappeared in the swamp land, over 9000 years ago.  These old Elk bones were preserved in the swamp land and were discovered 9000 years later, by the men working with the ditching machine on this Prairie, in 1982.  This rare discovery was reported in the Fall 1984 issue of the  “Ohio Archaeologist” Magazine.

The Mercer County Historical Society Members are issuing a Special Homecoming Invitation to each of the Mercer County Indian Relic Collectors who have exhibited their Collections these past 35 years at the Mercer County Historical Museum, to come and spend time with friends and guests who have visited the Annual Artifact Exhibits.  Not every Collector has to bring his collection, but every Collector is invited to attend this Homecoming Celebration.

I need your help.  Also on display will be photographs taken at the Artifact Exhibits these past 35 years.  Not all of the photographs have names listed.  I invite you to help the Mercer County Historical Society to preserve the History of the Mercer County Indian Relic Collectors by making certain that each person on each photograph is identified.  Without your help, some of the persons on the photographs remain unidentified.  Each Collector is important at this Homecoming Celebration of the Mercer County Indian Relic Collectors at the Mercer County Historical Museum, on Sunday, June 26.

 
June 24, 2016
 

Parkway Local School Board Special Meeting
The Parkway Local Board of Education will hold a special meeting at 4:45 pm on Friday, June 24 in Community Room of Parkway Local Schools. The only agenda item is to hire the Girls Head Basketball Coach.

Wright State University-Lake Campus Business Enterprise Center’s

Offers June Workshops for Business Owners/Workforce

Business Consulting                       Customized Workforce Training                        Advanced Manufacturing Training

Celina, Ohio – Did you know that the Business Enterprise Center (BEC) has helped thousands of new business start-ups since 1985? Today free business consultation services are still offered to new and existing businesses throughout our area due to a number of local banks, economic development agencies, community foundations, and counties donations which help offset costs.

Non-credit Class Offerings in Summer at WSU-Lake Campus

·                     PREPARING & WORKING WITH BUDGETS (Part of our finance series)

Are you in charge of budgeting at the office? Do you have a project or idea but you’re not sure how much it will cost? You need a budget! Ron will teach the components of a budget to make your plans a reality. You will learn how to generate a budget using income, expenses, how to estimate project costs, and how to modify your budget to fit your needs. This class is for anyone who is new to budgets as well as those who handle budgets on a daily basis. All levels of learners are welcome!

Class Date: July 7, 2016; 5:30-7:30 p.m. {2 hours} Instructor Ron Kremer;

Room: 119 Trenary Hall; Wright State University-Lake Campus; Cost $40 p/person

·              MICROSFT PUBLISHER

Microsoft Publisher is an easy-to-use design program which can create professional results. You can use Publisher’s tools to produce flyers, invitations, certificates, newsletters, and other marketing materials. Carla will teach you how to resize pictures/objects, add text boxes, and apply other formatting. You will learn features how to layer pictures, complete mail merges and table edits, and use drawing tools. This three-hour class will give Publisher users the ability to make attractive documents for all occasions!

Class Dates: July 11, 2016; 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. {3 hours}; Instructor: Carla Hirschfeld;

Room: 192 Dwyer Hall; Wright State University-Lake Campus; Cost: $55 p/person

·                      “STARTING RIGHT” (Pre-Business Seminar Held Monthly)

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

Class Date: Thursday, July 21, 2016; 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.; Room 126 Trenary Hall,

Wright State University-Lake Campus; Cost is $35 p/business.

We recommend all new business owners attend this class.

To register for any classes or to get information about the BEC programs, call the Wright State University-Lake Campus Business Enterprise Center at (419) 586-0902 or by emailing Carol.jones@wright.edu.

Calvary Evangelical Church Updates

 
June 23, 2016
 

Stetler and Miller Families Announce Engagement

Stetler/Miller Engagement Announcement Brian and Kendra Stetler, Celina, Ohio announce the engagement and approaching marriage of their daughter Megan Stetler, to Scott Miller, son of Nick and Lisa Miller, Convoy, Ohio. The bride elect is a graduate of Celina High School and attends Rhodes State College majoring in business. She is employed by Pax Machine and Dentistry for You, Celina. The prospective groom is a graduate of Crestview High School and attends Wright State University - Lake Campus majoring in business. He is employed by Cooper Farms, St. Henry. The couple is planning a July 30, 2016 wedding at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, Celina. A reception will be held at the Galleria, Celina

Parkway Sports Physicals are today, June 23, 2016 at Parkway High School
Grades 8-12
Girls at 1 PM by grade
Boys at 3 PM by grade
 

Prayers Needed ~ Click Here!

 
June 22, 2016
 

Come to the 40th Old Fashioned Farmers' Days in Van Wert at the Fairgrounds!
See ad and website link above!

OUR OLD BOOKCASE - Prehistoric Relic Exhibit on Sunday, June 26 at Mercer County Historical Museum

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

Photo Caption:  These prehistoric artifacts, which are thousands of years old, are on exhibit at the Guatemala Museum in Central America.  Notice the similarity and differences of the artifacts found in Central America, compared to the artifacts found by the Mercer County Indian Relic Collectors, here in Mercer County.

The Mercer County Indian Relic Collectors will hold their 36th Annual Prehistoric Artifact Exhibit, at the Mercer County Historical Museum, 130 East Market, Celina, on Sunday, June 26, 2016, 1:00 – 4:00. 

The public is invited to bring their own arrowheads, bannerstones, gorgets, stone axes, birdstones, spear points, etc., to ask for information from the Collectors. 

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

OUR OLD BOOKCASE - Come to the 40th Old Fashioned Farmers' Days in Van Wert at the Fairgrounds!

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

Photo Caption:  Ron Gruss, Rockford, Ohio,  exhibited this Mogul Tractor at the July 1992 Lake Festival Exhibit of Antique Tractors & Trucks at the Mercer county Historical Museum, after he had exhibited this tractor at the Old Fashioned Farmers Days at the Fourth of July Exhibit at Van Wert.  The Old Fashioned Farmers Days will be held, June 30 through July 3, 2016 at Van Wert County Fairgrounds.

This history is a tribute to the area collectors of Antique Tractors, and their families, who exhibited their Tractors at the Celina City Founders Square Parking Lot, adjacent to the Mercer County Historical Museum for twenty-seven years, from 1977 until 2003.  When I retired as Director of the Mercer County Historical Museum, the Celina Lake Festival moved the Antique Tractor show to the Mercer County Commissioners’ Parking Lot.  That exhibit is no longer held at that site.

For the past four decades, the Old Fashioned Farmers Association has hosted “Old Fashioned Farmers Days,” at Van Wert.  This Show originally began at Paul Clay’s Farm at Rockford.  A few years, they hosted the Show at the Mercer County Fairgrounds.  The Show kept growing, and now the Old Fashioned Farmers host Old Fashioned Farmers Days, with the Van Wert County Agricultural Society at the Van Wert County Fairgrounds. 

The 40th Annual Exhibit of the Van Wert County Old Fashioned Farmers Days, June 30 through July 3, 2016 will feature Tractors Oliver, Minneapolis Moline, Co-op Tractors, Equipment, Hit & Miss Engines, and a host of activities.  A list of Activities is on the website:  http://www.oldfashionedfarmersdays.com .  Watch for news releases in the area newspapers about this popular show.

The Agricultural Heritage of Mid-Western Ohio is the Agribusiness economical base of these Western Counties.  The Agricultural Heritage touches most families either directly or indirectly.  Have you read the local history books about New Idea’s history, first of the NI Horse Drawn Manure Spreaders and second of the NI Corn Pickers?  Have you read the local history book, “Those Magnificent Big Barns of Mercer County,” which features the heritage and architectural descriptions of over a thousand big old barns, some of which are no longer standing?  Are you looking forward to the next NIHP book about the history of the NI Uni-System?

May I ask you, if you and/or your relatives are honestly interested in preserving the rural agricultural heritage of Mercer County, and/or nearby Counties?  When I see several thousand guests and their families attend the annual Van Wert Old Fashioned Farmers Days at Van Wert, each July, I believe they are interested in preserving local history.  When we visit the annual Tri State Gas Engine and Antique Tractor Exhibit at Portland, Indiana, in August, I see several thousand guests and their families enjoying those days honoring their agricultural heritage.

These events require hundreds of volunteers to plan and implement.  For the past four decades, as I have served as President of the Mercer County Historical Society, I have respected the several hundred volunteers who have worked to preserve local history at the Mercer County Historical Museum, year after year.  However, I fear if our Historical Society Volunteers retire, who will step up to the plate and continue to preserve Mercer County’s heritage?  When I am contacted by tourists seeking history of Mercer County, I ask them who told them to contact me.  They give me the names of the Mercer County Commissioners, the Auglaize-Mercer County Visitors Bureau, the City of Celina Website, the Chamber of Commerce, the Mercer County Library, the Mercer County Extension Office, the Mercer  County Engineer’s Office, and other organizations or businesses.  Each of those Offices have a paid staff.  The Mercer County Historical Museum has no paid staff.  If you are interested in preserving the rural agricultural heritage of Mercer County, at the Mercer County Historical Museum, email me or write me a letter.  Thanks.

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

Mercer County EMA Meetings

EMA Advisory Board Meeting

Tuesday, July 14, 2016

EMA Office           Celina                 12:05 PM

LEPC Meeting Has Been Scheduled for:

Thursday, July 14, 2016

Central Services Building  Celina            7:30 AM

            2nd Floor Conference Room

Contact the Mercer County EMA @ 419-586-6468

MERCER CO. PERI MEETING July 12, 2016

The Mercer County PERI meeting will be held, Tuesday July 12, at 10:00 A.M. at the Hopewell Grange at the Mercer County Fairground.  For PERI Early Birds, coffee, juice and donuts will be served at 9:30 A.M.

Ohio Senator Keith Faber will be the July 12 speaker for PERI Members.   Senator Faber will discuss his work with the Ohio Senate, as well as his work with Citizens of the 12th Senate District.   This program will give the PERI Members an opportunity to talk with Senator Faber and ask questions related to our Ohio Public Employment Retirees.  Senator Faber will have a personal interest in our PERI organization, because when he retires, we will invite him to become a Member of our Mercer County PERI organization.

Annual Sock Hop in Rockford Planned – Save the Date

The 7th Annual Sock Hop and Cruise in will be held on 
Saturday - August 6th at 4 pm at the Rockford Belle located
in Rockford at 135 West Market Street.

The cruise in begins at 4 pm.  There is NO ENTRY FEE !
NO JUDGING !  -  Just Shine & Show !

Blind Date and Friends will play 50's & 60's music beginning
at 6 pm.

Food and ICE CREAM will be available!

Bring your lawn chairs and take in the sights and sounds of
this event.

Sponsored by The Rockford Belle and The Rockford Chamber 

For more information call 419-363-3242.

 
June 21, 2016

 

Parkway Graduate of 2016 Taylor Andrews Wins Prestigious New Award
 

Taylor Andrews, 18 year old daughter of Scott and Jannaya Andrews, recently walked away from the 47^th annual ASIFA (East Animated Film Festival) in New York City with the Women in Animation-Excellence in Animation Filmmaking Rising Star award. Click Here to see the announcement.

Andrews' short film, "The Dream," was completed over the summer between her junior and senior year with the guidance of Parkway teachers art - Ed Kuhn and  computer - Kevin Browning.  The two found a contest in which to enter
her film, which had impressed them. Taylor’s piece had also impressed the judges at the Animation Center, according to Lisa Goldman, president of the group. They created the award especially for Taylor. Goldman expressed that she hoped more female high school students will enter in the future.
 

Taylor was honored at the Parkway High School Academic Awards Assembly for Seniors in May. Mr. Browning and Mr. Kuhn formally presented Andrews with the award and treated the crowd of peers, parents, and grandparents to a showing of the short film and honored her as a gifted artist who is passionate about learning her trade.

According to Taylor, was always an artist, even doing advanced work in pre-school. She never drew “stick people”; she had an eye for detail, her parents learned early on. She attended Zion Lutheran School in Decatur, IN through the 8^th grade and participated in art. According to Taylor, though, she really began to love art and develop her talents when she entered high school at Parkway and became a student of Ed Kuhn. “I felt free in his classes to safely express myself. I could always do whatever I wanted, and Mr. Kuhn would help me if I needed something. Throughout high school, I took every art class I could: Art 1; Ceramics; Painting: Drawing; and then became a student in Interactive Media with Mr. Kuhn and Mr. Browning as teachers. I learned to use the MicroSoft Anime Studio Pro and learned to combine the different types of art with animation and sound.”

Of the animation, The Dream, she based it on a popular 1932 Picasso oil painting called The Dream, of a sleeping woman. Taylor favors cubism, and fell in love with his work. Her idea of having the woman awake was her interpretation of the theme of the short film Rising Star award: Sisterhood. As the woman awakes in her animation, a girl scout sticks with her as she looks at all the other paintings in the room where “she has hung on the wall for so long”. Taylor said, “The woman awakens and sees her surroundings in a different way as she looks at the other paintings. I am so proud of this award and what it means: for young women sticking together. And, I am so proud to be the first recipient.”

Taylor has been accepted at the University of St. Francis in Ft. Wayne in the fall, where she plans to major in animation, with a minor in art education.

Taylor invites you to view her animation below:

Click here for The Decatur Daily Democrat’s posting

 
June 20, 2016
First Day of Summer!

 

This is the First Day of Summer, Monday, June 20, 2016, and the day will be the longest at 14 hours and a rare Full Moon will be in site tonight. The summer solstice and the full moon (called a Strawberry Moon) have not been in sync for 70 years. Hot today and stormy this evening!

Thank you to Henkle Insurance for being our PWI weather sponsor!

April Showers brought May Flowers and lots and lots of Weeds
Submitted by the Shanes Park Beautification Society

 
June 18-19, 2016
Happy Father's Day!

 

Shultz Huber & Associates Announces Team Member Promotions

Shultz Huber & Associates, a certified public accounting firm with locations throughout northwest Ohio, recently the announced the promotion of Stacey Baer and Steve Samples.

Stacey Baer, Certified Public Accountant, has been promoted to principal with the firm. Baer joined the firm in 1998 and is experienced in assisting large and small businesses in a variety of industries with individual and business tax preparation and software consulting, evaluation and implementation.

Baer is a Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor and holds a degrees in accounting and marketing from Defiance College. She is a member of The Ohio Society of Certified Public Accountants and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. She currently serves on the Van Wert County YWCA finance committee, is the treasurer of the board of directors for the Van Wert Youth Football Association, and is treasurer for the Van Wert Football Tailgate Tour.

Baer works primarily in the Van Wert office but is available to clients at any of the firm’s five locations. She resides with her family in Van Wert.

Steve Samples, Certified Public Accountant, has been promoted to principal with the firm. Samples joined the firm in 1995 and provides accounting and tax services to businesses in a variety of industries, including telecommunications, agriculture and franchise operations. Samples also heads the firm’s forensic accounting services.

He has a degree in accounting from Miami University and is a member of The Ohio Society of Certified Public Accountants, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, and the American College of Forensic Examiners. Samples is involved with the Van Wert Rotary Club and is the treasurer for the Van Wert Community Improvement Corporation.

Samples works primarily in the Van Wert office but is available to clients at any of the firm’s five locations. He resides in the Rockford area with his wife, Teri, and their family.

Shultz Huber & Associates, Inc. is a full service accounting, tax and business consulting 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.

Man Incarcerated After Search of Vehicle
Sheriff Jeff Grey reports the arrest of an individual on drug related incident.   On June 14, 2016 a deputy stopped a 2003 Dodge Caravan for fictitious plates on Mud Pike west of Celina at 6:22 PM.  The driver and owner of the van consented to the van being searched and deputies found suspected methamphetamine.  The substance was field tested and tested positive for methamphetamine.

Arrested 51 year old Michael Croyle from 132 Buckeye Street in Celina. Mr. Croyle was  incarcerated in the Mercer County Detention Facility, and held on charges of driving under suspension and possession of drug paraphernalia.  The case will be forwarded to the Mercer County Prosecutor for consideration of additional charges.

The Niswonger Unveils The Ten Years Of WOW! Season

By Tafi Stober

(Van Wert, OH) - Ten years of fun - Ten years of big name entertainment - Ten years of WOW! The Niswonger Performing Arts Center is celebrating a milestone season with Ten years of WOW! It’s  been ten years in the making and it’s going to be simply over-the-top! There has never been a better time to explore the arts at the Niswonger, so jump in and see how to escape the norm with entertainment and inspiration from the Niswonger Ten Years of WOW 2016-2017 Season!

The Niswonger’s 10th Anniversary Season kicks off with two of the most influential men in the Jazz world. Sunday, September 24th at 7:30pm. Chuck & Karen Koch along with Jim and Theresa Robideau present Jonathan Butler and Gerald Albright. These Jazz legends have you dancing in the aisles and singing along the whole night. With Butler’s captivating and powerful catalogue of hit songs combined with Albright’s signature searing and soulful sax arrangements, there is no better place to be than at the Niswonger! Jonathan Butler and Gerald Albright - Sunday, September 24th!

These days are ours, happy and free with Happy Days Live presented by Kevin Laing, D.D.S., on Saturday October 1st at 7:30pm! Take a trip down memory lane with Potsie and Ralph as they celebrate the show’s 40th anniversary! Anson Williams and Donny Most will be sharing some of their favorite moments from Happy Days along with rare photos, live music, and never before seen video about their coming-of-age experiences on the show. Happy Days Live! Saturday, October 1st - what a day, ready to race to you at the Niswonger!

Prepare to go into the wild right here at the Niswonger! Back by popular demand is America’s favorite zoo keeper and his favorite furry friends in Jack Hanna Into the Wild LIVE Saturday, October 8th at 3pm presented by Belna Petroleum! Hanna’s insight into the protection and conservation of our planet’s wildlife combined with a live show full of some of your favorite endangered animals will leave you with a renewed appreciation for all creatures, great and small. Jack Hanna Into the Wild LIVE Saturday, October 8th at the Niswonger!

A night of praise and worship is coming to the Niswonger Sunday, October 16th with Christian chart-topper Colton Dixon presented by Youth for Christ! This American Idol alum has been making waves in the Christian Music industry with smash hits “More of You” and “Limitless” off his sophomore album “Anchor.” With his edgy rock sound and inspiring lyrics, this is a concert at the Niswonger you won’t want to miss with Colton Dixon, Sunday, October 16th at 7:30 PM.

You’ve seen the movies, you’ve watched the award winning Television competition, now get ready for some aca-mazing talent with the brand new a capella group Vocalosity Saturday, October 22nd at 7:30pm presented by Slusher’s Jewelry. Founded by the artistic producer of both Pitch Perfect and The Sing-Off, Deke Sharon, this group features 12 dynamic voices singing some of today’s chart-topping hits in brand-new arrangements too incredible to miss. Get ready to dust off your aca-chops and sing along with Vocalosity at the Niswonger! Saturday, October 22nd!

We’ll start walkin’ your way if you start walking toward the Niswonger for a night of country hits with Diamond Rio, Saturday, October 29th at 7:30pm courtesy of Celina Moving & Storage. This six-time vocal group of the year will take you on a journey through award-winning country history with some of their biggest hits off their timeless records from the 80s and 90s. Bring those back-road country memories to life at the Niswonger with Diamond Rio, Saturday, October 29th!

Everybody’s favorite syrup-loving Christmas Elf is venturing through the candy-cane forest to come to the Niswonger on Monday, November 21st at 7:30pm in Elf The Musical On Tour, presented by First Federal Bank. This heart-warming, side-splitting family musical will be sure to get you in the mood for Christmas and have you embracing your inner elf as Buddy the Elf helps his naughty-list father remember the true meaning of Christmas. This is a modern day Christmas classic you won’t want to miss at the Niswonger with Elf The Musical On Tour, Monday, November 21st!

She helped the Niswonger say hello in 2007, now we’re helping her say farewell. It’s Sandi Patty: Christmas Blessings, Sunday December 4th at 7:30pm. After a long award-winning career, Sandi Patty is visiting over 90 cities across the globe to perform one last time for all her life-long fans. It will be a historic evening you’ll never forget full of Grammy and Dove award winning music from Sandi Patty: Christmas Blessings on December 4th!

Celebrate a family tradition as the legacy continues with The Andy Williams Christmas Extravaganza presented by Belna Petroleum on Saturday, December 10th at 7:30pm. Starring the Osmond Brothers and the Lennon Sisters, The Andy Williams Christmas Extravaganza brings all the variety that made Andy’s holiday specials so spectacular. With this tribute to Andy, the man who started it all, the most wonderful time of the year just got better at the Niswonger with The Andy Williams Christmas Extravaganza, Saturday, December 10th!

“Swinging” into town just in time for Christmas and back by popular demand is John Tesh’s Big Band Christmas, on Saturday, December 17th at 7:30pm presented by Bose McKinney & Evans LLP. You’ll be sure to “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” with John Tesh singing and playing alongside his 14-piece big band playing all your favorite holiday hits in bold, brassy, big band style! Fun for all ages, this popular media personality is sure to entertain all generations when this Grammy award winning Christmas spectacular hits the stage.

The Niswonger’s premier 2017 event will take you back in time with The Time Jumpers Featuring Vince Gill Saturday, February 4th at 7:30pm presented by the Kenn-Feld Group. Every member of this multi Grammy nominated country group has made major contributions to the richness and vigor of country music. This time, The Time Jumpers are bringing along country music legend Vince Gill for a night of country nostalgia you can’t afford to miss on February 4th.

We’re bringing all the glitz and glamour of musical theater to the Niswonger on Sunday, February 12th at 2pm and again at 7:30pm, with the Broadway classic - 42nd Street presented by BeeGee Realty. Bright lights, sparkling costumes, and huge dance numbers await you as you follow starry-eyed Peggy Sawyer as she leaves small town life to pursue her dream of becoming a Broadway star! You’ll be laughing and singing along in this quintessential backstage musical classic set to hit the Niswonger stage Sunday, February 12th!

Won’t you be our neighbor? The Niswonger and Jeffery - Mohr Family Dentistry welcome Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Live for two kid friendly shows of pure Tiger-ific fun Saturday, February 25th at 11am and again at 2pm. This award winning PBS KIDS show continues the legacy of Mister Roger’s Neighborhood to a whole new generation with the friendly tiger, Daniel and his friends as they explore the vibrant world of their much-loved Neighborhood of Make-Believe. This interactive musical filled with singing, dancing, laughter and grr-ific surprises will warm the hearts of all generations on Saturday, February 25th!

Come together right now at the Niswonger as you go on a musical journey through the life and times of the world’s most celebrated band in Broadway’s RAIN - A Tribute to The Beatles, presented by Vancrest Health Care Centers on Monday, March 6th at 7:30pm. This stunning concert experience takes you back in time with the legendary foursome delivering a note-for-note theatrical event that has been nationally compared to the real thing. Enjoy all your favorite Beatles hits from “I Want to Hold Your Hand” to “Hard Day’s Night,” and “Yellow Submarine” to “Hey Jude.” You won’t be able to “Let It Be” when this live multi-media spectacular hits the stage.

Experience your favorite iconic artists through a whole new medium at the Niswonger with Artrageous, Saturday, March 11th at 7:30 presented by TAG Menswear. With a palette that mixes captivating vocals, intricate choreography, and huge portraits painted before your very eyes, this interactive artistic extravaganza takes you on a unique visual and musical journey packed with wild inspiration, creativity, and fun for the whole family! The artists pay tribute to a variety of art forms, pop icons, and musical genres culminating in a gallery of fabulous finished paintings. You’ll be part of the show at this one of a kind crossover experience - only at the Niswonger!

Last season he brought the house down with his rendition of “O Holy Night,” now he’s back for more! Joanne Wolford and Family in memory of Roger Wolford proudly present David Phelps: Good Friday Concert on Friday, April 14th at 7:30pm. Phelps’ masterful melodies have been burned into critically acclaimed songs that have echoed the walls of Carnegie Hall, the White House, and countless churches around the world. Celebrate one of the most reverent days of the year at the Niswonger with the return of David Phelps for a Good Friday Concert, Friday, April 14th!

At the Niswonger, we just want to keep on loving you! That’s why we’re closing the 2016-17 Grand Series with REO Speedwagon Saturday, April 29th at 7:30pm presented by US Bank! With their long list of hits from their incredibly successful career as an American Rock Classic, REO Speedwagon will have the Niswonger rockin’ long into the night. This high octane Grand Series Finale will leave you wanting more, Saturday, April 29th at the Niswonger!

The Niswonger SPEAKER SERIES brings noted names to the stage who further our understanding, challenge our thinking and have us teetering on the edge of our seat to hear which Cincinnati Reds great just hit the home run!

It all begins on September 20th when Westwood Behavioral Health Center shares valuable and culturally relevant information by providing a free, and very insightful presentation by Los Angeles free-lance journalist, Sam Quinones. On Sunday, September 18th at 3:00pm, Author Sam Quinone touches on the increasing opiate usage and subsequent heroin addiction across the nation in his latest book Dreamland: The True Tale of America’s Opiate Epidemic. This presentation includes his experiences, observations, and perspective followed by a panel discussion comprised of local officials. The Niswonger cares about our communities and wants to offer this event is free to the public.

It’s time to be inspired at the Niswonger with inspirational speaker and author, Jon Gordon, Sunday, October 2nd at 3:00pm presented by Central Insurance Companies. Gordon’s best-selling books and talks have inspired readers and audiences around the world. Professional sports teams, fortune 500 companies, school districts, hospitals, you name it - have put Gordon’s principles to the test with incredible results. For an evening of inspiration, look no further than Jon Gordon, Sunday, October 2nd, only at the Niswonger!

“And this one belongs to the Reds!” If you’ve listened to a Cincinnati Reds game in the past 40 years, you’ll be sure to recognize our final event of the Niswonger Speaker Series. The voice of the Cincinnati Reds, Marty Brennaman, Monday, November 7th at 7:30 pm presented by Lee Kinstle GM Sales and Service. Known for his opinionated, zealous style and love for the Cincinnati Reds led him to be named Ohio Sportscaster of the Year multiple times.. This Niswonger Speaker Series Finale belongs to the Reds with Marty Brennaman, Monday November 17th!

This opportunity comes only once in ten years, so we wanted to go BIG! Scott Niswonger, Central Insurance, The Van Wert County Foundation, with additional support from The Kenn-Feld Group, are bringing one of the biggest events Ohio has ever seen to Van Wert. Presenting, The Gala: Ten Years Of WOW featuring Bernadette Peters and the Boston Pops Orchestra, Saturday, April 1st at 8:00pm! An evening ten years in the making, this black-tie optional event is above and beyond anything the Niswonger has seen yet. Join us for a night of music, laughter, family, and friends as we celebrate ten years of WOW at a once in a lifetime event! The Gala: Ten Years Of WOW featuring Bernadette Peters and The Boston Pops Orchestra, Saturday, April 1st - Only at the Niswonger!

This spectacular milestone season celebrating ten years of WOW is one for the record books and certainly one you won’t want to miss!. So, let’s get this 10th anniversary party started! Member Sales begin June 16, Grand Series Sales begin June 29 and the Select Series provides early buying opportunities by bundling 3 or more events beginning July 7. Summer hours are Tuesday through Friday, noon to four or get your tickets online/anytime at NPACVW.ORG. Jump in and celebrate Ten Years Of WOW! with us, at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center.

 
June 17, 2016
 

Enjoy Community Days in Rockford - June 17 and 18th!

Rockford Rec. Fall Sports Signup

The Rockford Recreation Association is currently accepting registration forms for the 2016 fall sports season. Registration and medical forms can be printed from www.rockfordrec.com or picked up at the Rockford Village Office. Registration deadline for all fall programs is August 7th. 

The 2016 Fall Soccer League is open to boys and girls entering grades K-6. Games will be played on Sunday afternoons at Shanes Park through the months of September and October. The registration fee is $25.00 per child and each participant will receive a team jersey. Each player is required to provide their own shin guards.

The 2016 Fall Flag Football League is open to boys and girls entering grades 1-6. Flag football games will be played on Monday evenings at Shanes park through the months of September and October. The registration fee is $25.00 per child and each participant will receive a team jersey and a mouthpiece. Mouthpieces are required to participate at all practices and games.

Completed registration forms, medical forms, and registration fees can be dropped off at the Rockford Village Office or mailed to Rockford Rec. - PO Box 16 - Rockford, OH 45882.

 
June 15-16, 2016
 

NFL Punt, Pass, & Kick in Rockford
The Rockford Recreation Association will host their annual NFL Punt, Pass, & Kick competition on Saturday, June 18th at 7:30pm on Diamond #3 at Shanes Park during the Rockford Community Days festival. The event is open to boys & girls ages 6-15 (age classification is determined as of December 31, 2016). Participants are encouraged preregister online at www.NFLPPK.com and print the completed registration form to bring with them on the day of the competition. Walk-up registrations will be available on the day of the event. Participants are required to wear athletic shoes and NOT permitted to wear cleats during the competition. This is a FREE event!!


The top finishers from each of the ten different age/gender groups at the local competition will advance to a sectional competition. The winners at the sectional competition will have their scores compared with other sectional champions throughout the region. The top four scorers from the pool of sectional champions advance to the Cincinnati Bengals Team Championship at a Bengals home game later this fall. The winning scores from the Team Championships will be eligible to qualify for the National Finals at an NFL playoff game in January.

Annual Scholarship Award Ceremony Held

CELINA, Ohio – The Western Ohio Educational Foundation and Wright State University – Lake Campus held their Annual Scholarship Award Ceremony on Tuesday, June 7th in James F. Dicke Hall located at the Lake Campus. This year 128 students were awarded over $275,000. Awards ranged from a few hundred dollars in book scholarships to full-tuition.

The Western Ohio Education Foundation (WOEF) is made up of a group of community members from Auglaize, Darke, Mercer and Van Wert Counties who work tirelessly to provide scholarships and other benefits to Lake Campus students. Since 1995 the WOEF Board has awarded more than $3 million in scholarship funds. The Lake Campus Scholarship Fund would not be in existence without community donations and the tireless efforts of Julie Miller, WOEF Board Development Officer and Sandy Gilbert, Coordinator of the Scholarship Program at the Lake Campus.

Scholarship sponsors in attendance were Lester E. Brandewie, Dorothy A. & Lester E. Brandewie & Family Scholarship; Pete Falk, Crown Scholarships; Jerry Lehman, First National Bank New Bremen Scholarship; Dennis Hirt, (WOEF President) The Reynolds & Reynolds Foundation Scholarship; Chad Tester, Wayne Trails, A Lincoln Electric Company Scholarship; Julie M. Miller, STEM Scholarship; Chris Noble, Ruth & Willis Winters Nursing Scholarship; Brenda Lange, Setex, Inc. Scholarship; Kelly Lloyd, First Financial Bank Scholarship and Dan Hosek, AAP St. Marys Scholarship.

Writing Club to Meet
The Stateline Writers Club will meet at the Mercer County District Library on Saturday, June 18, 2016, from 10:00 am until Noon.  Those attending are invited to write something about "sweet comforts, comforts, or what brings you comfort."  The public is invited to attend.  

2016 Farm Focus Scholarship Winners