Shopping Guide News of Fulton County - February 1, 2023

Every year, manufacturers are forced to reject tons of recycled materials due to contamination.

“Contamination,” as it relates to recycling, takes many forms. In addition to unclean food containers — a greasy pizza box or old jar of peanut butter, for example — contamination can come from a seemingly innocent source, such as a “paper” coffee cup, which usually also has thin petroleumbased plastic lining to prevent leaking.

Contamination has always been a headache for the Fulton County Solid Waste District employees; however, the problem has been compounded by Kosciusko County’s recent decision to eliminate recycling stations, according to Stacy Hart, FCSWD executive director. The decision partly resulted from “large amounts of trash being dumped at each location.”

“We here at FCSWD have seen an increase in the use of some of our drop-off sites and at our facility, which is great. The problems we are running into are that Kosciusko County drop-off sites didn’t require sorting of recyclables, but we do.

“We only have so much manpower to operate our facility (as every business does), and would appreciate that everyone take the time to sort their items. This is a free service that we offer and we want to keep it that way for all of our residents,” Hart wrote in a statement on Facebook.

Hart was quick to point out that “most of our responsible recyclers do an amazing job, but it is the few people out there that don’t like to follow the rules and

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K NOW Y OUR N EIGHBOR

New Caston Schools superintendent touts community support

In Jan. 1, Angela Miller succeeded Dr. Paul Voigt as superintendent of Caston School Corporation. A curriculum director at Caston for over seven years, Miller is familiar with the rural corporation’s unique character.

“It’s definitely a family,” she observed. “When you’re small you have a connection to everybody. I really like that family atmosphere. Even though I didn’t grow up here, I’m still treated like family.”

Miller grew up in nearby Akron on a family farm and still credits her 4-H experience with providing a firm foundation for her professional life.

“I’ll always be a supporter. The leadership skills you gain are invaluable. … Many from my friend group in 4-H are lead-

ers in the community into our 50s,” she said.

Miller has also had a lifelong interest in art, and after graduating from Tippecanoe Valley High School, she attended Manchester College, where she studied to be an art teacher. Her first posting was at Whitko Community Schools, teaching art in grades K-8.

After marrying Doug Miller, her husband of 32 years, Angela took a four-year hiatus from work to spend more time with their new children, Daniel and Madison. She transitioned back into education at Tippecanoe Valley School Corporation.

At Valley, Miller also “eased into administration.” While there, she earned a master’s degree in elementary education from Indiana University in Kokomo and an administrative license form Indiana Purdue at Fort Wayne. She was a cur-

riculum director for eight years and then principal at Mentone Elementary for five years. As recently as 2021, Miller earned her education specialist degree from Indiana State University.

A superintendent, said Miller, must have the ability to “see the bigger picture.”

“Every part of the education system has its own microcosm,” she explained. The superintendent must be able to connect with people, “so everybody is pulling together for the best interest of the children. That’s what we’re here for.”

Miller credits her predecessor for spearheading a strategic plan, which was adopted in March 2020. Broadly speaking, the plan focuses on the “four Cs”: Culture, community, curriculum and campus. The plan calls for regular data collection and review to ensure the corporation is meeting its goals.

“It’s nice to start a job like this with a road map in place,” said Miller.

Her first month has been spent “getting up to speed. … And keeping the board informed on what’s going on, so they can make the best decisions.”

Miller also cited the phenomenon of “rural brain drain,” talented students moving away to larger cities or other parts of the country, as a problem she hopes to address. In recent years, Caston added community service as a graduation requirement, a move she endorses.

“If we’re going to produce community leaders, it’s not just math and science that are going to get us there.” The community service requirement helps foster a greater sense of connection.

WHY A THIRD TERM FOR MAYOR DENTON?

A good question. The most obvious is look at the 60 plus improvements that have been made to Rochester WITHOUT raising taxes or utility fees. These things do not happen by accident, lets see what value Denton brings to city hall.

The past seven years the philosophy of running the city like a business works. It comes from a Mayor who knows no other way. A Mayor who came from over thirty years of successful top management business experience. A Mayor who understands that a bureaucratic, laid-back style of government is not progressive. A Mayor who understands to achieve success you must dedicate yourself to running only one business, the city (in seven years Denton has not had a vacation). The Mayor is completely engaged in all major projects. Negotiations and project lead responsibility is NOT farmed out to consultants, it is done by the Mayor. Planning, budgeting, negotiating, project management, personnel management are just part of the current Mayor’s routine.

Negotiations by Denton, such as cost of public safety software, engineering projects, loans (seven and half million dollars at 1½% for twenty years instead of 3½% loan), income percentage from the landfill for processing the water they generate (leachate) and health insurance premiums just to name a few areas where thousands of dollars have been saved or earned.

Health insurance for an example. The city has one of the best health insurance packages in the area. Cost to employees is one dollar a year. Each year the cost of insurance is negotiated by the Mayor. Most companies, schools and government agencies are seeing double digit increases in premiums and don’t have the coverage the city has and charge employees more than a dollar a year. The average of premium increase negotiated over seven years has been 3%.

Why a third term for Denton? We need to continue the business minded progress, we can’t afford less. Keep it going.

VOTE DENTON FOR MAYOR, Your

support is appreciated.

“It’s an amazing seed to plant.”

Furthermore, Caston’s location — between Rochester and Logansport — means this com-

munity involvement impacts a larger area. “It gets spread out because of where these kids live geographically.”

“I can’t say enough about how the community supports these students,” Miller enthused. She recalled when an anonymous donor purchased pizza for the entire elementary for a week before Christmas break. “That’s

just one example.”

Miller also works to foster relationships with students outside of the classroom, and she is glad her husband is “into sports,” as the couple enjoy attending Caston sports events together.

The Miller’s also spend time at Doug’s mother’s home on Lake Manitou and enjoy snowmobiling in the winter.

“I still do arts when I can,” Miller added. She paints in water color and acrylic.

Meet new Fedco director at reception Thursday

The public is invited to attend a reception from 4:30-6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, at Arlington Public House, 703 Main St., Rochester, as the Fulton Economic Development Corp. introduces its new executive director, Michael Ladd, to the community.

Ladd is an experienced leader in the nonprofit industry. He has expertise in partnerships at the public, private and government level, public relations, educational programming, special events management, fundraising and volunteer recruitment and training, according to a news release from the Fedco board of directors.

“I am very excited to have Mr. Ladd joining our team,” said David Heyde, president of the Fedco, in the news release.

“We believe he will be an excellent asset to Fedco and Fulton County as a whole.”

State grants encourage Hoosier public art

The Indiana Destination Development Corp. has launched two new grants that will give local artists and communities the opportunity to create artwork and signage in highly visible locations throughout the state for the “IN Indiana” marketing campaign.

The IN Indiana Placemaking Activation Grant is a matching grant of up to $25,000 to fund signage and place-making efforts. The IN Indiana Public Art Activation Grant is a non-matching grant of

up to $10,000 to fund public art projects.

Indiana Destination Development Corp. plans to allocate up to $500,000 total between both grants based on the quality of applications received. Grantees will receive 75% of funding upon award and 25% upon project completion.

These programs follow the success of the initial round of the Public Art Activation Grant program in 2022, which saw Indiana Destination Development Corp. fund

Good Neighbors

Good Neighbors is a column in which readers share friendly advice. To ask or answer questions, write ‘the PAPER’, Good Neighbors, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542; fax 800-886-3796; or e-mail abias@the-papers.com. Please no phone calls.

Editor’s Note: The Good Neighbors column is for people looking for hard-to-find or old items or for people seeking advice, not for items you can find in a local store or sell through the help of a classified ad.

Puzzles

Good neighbors: In response to the Good Neighbor who asked about puzzles, I have a day care in Rochester and do puzzles during rest time. Are you located close to Rochester? If so, please call (574) 223-3173. — Debbie

New questions

Wrought iron bed frame — I am looking for an old wrought iron bed frame. Can be black or white. Would like queen or full size. If you have queen, would you also have the box springs? Call (574) 301-1900 or text a picture to (574) 500-1490.

Enclosed trailer — Is there a Good Neighbor who would have a 6-foot-wide-by-8-foot-long

Continued from page 1

seem to be ruining it for others.”

In addition to the increased labor this causes, unsorted and contaminated recyclables increase costs industrywide. “The places we send this want clean, non-contaminated materials,” Hart explained. These include Hartford City Paper and Quincy Recycle.

Hart explained FCSWD is not tax funded, and 75% of its funding comes from the Fulton County landfill. “The more we can recycle and keep out of the landfill, the longer the landfill will be around to continue to help fund programs in this county.” These programs include 4-Tire Collection Days, disposal of electronics, household and hazardous waste, refrigerated appliances, fluorescent lighting, mercury, batteries, used oil and antifreeze, and maintaining eight 24-hour drop-off locations around the county.

“Without the landfill funding, the cost of these programs will be passed on to residents on their tax bills,” she added. “So please, everyone, we are asking that if and when you do your recycling, if it is trash you need to do the proper thing and dispose of it in the trash not in our trailers.”

Done efficiently, recycling conserves energy, reduces air and wa-

more than 40 murals and sculptures across the state. You can see those projects at visitindiana.com/ murals.

The agency is now accepting grant applications; the deadline to apply is 4 p.m. Friday, March 17. All applicants will be considered, including but not limited to communities, destination marketing organizations, chambers of commerce and private businesses. Potential public art locations can include anything from exterior walls

and alleyways to bridges, barns and more.

“This activation aligns perfectly with the IDDC’s new IN Indiana campaign, which is all about giving tools and a voice to everyone,” said Elaine Bedel, agency secretary and chief executive officer, in a news release.

“This not only enables us to highlight local artists and organizations, but also use the IN Indiana campaign to tie Indiana communities together in a way that adds to the beauty of Indiana’s rural, urban and suburban landscapes.”

Projects will be selected based on the quality of the submitted design, with preference given to locations in high-view areas that create potential photo opportunities. Indiana Destination Development Corp. intends to include a diverse group of locations and projects, including urban, suburban and rural settings, large and small communities and locations in different regions of the state.

For more information on guidelines and timelines, go to visitindiana.com/about-iddc/for-industrypartners/awards-grants.

enclosed trailer they would like to get rid of? Call (574) 646-2603.

Lop-eared bunny — Looking for a female lop-eared bunny for a pet. Prefer a small sized baby. Call (800) 439-1272. Nappanee area.

Chicken coop — Does anyone have a chicken coop in decent shape you don’t want? Must be big enough for 12 to 15 hens. Call (800) 439-1272. Must be Nappanee area.

Willow tree figurines/Yamaha keyboard — Does anybody have any willow tree figurines that you no longer want? I’m also looking for a Yamaha keyboard, preferably with 76 keys, in good condition. Please call (574) 773-2587 and leave message.

Chafing pans — I am looking for chafing pans. Reply through this column. — A reader Rooster — I’m looking for a rooster in the Akron area. If you have one, please contact (574) 544-9669.

ter pollution, reduces greenhouse gases and conserves natural resources.

The following statistics are from Stanford University:

• A ton of soda cans made with recycled aluminum saves 21,000 kilowatt-hours by reducing the virgin bauxite ore that would have to be mined, shipped and refined for a 95% energy savings. The Steel Recycling Institute has found that steel recycling saves enough energy to electrically power the equivalent of 18 million homes for a year.

• A ton of PET plastic containers made with recycled plastic conserves about 7,200 Kwh.

• One ton of recycled office paper

saves 4,100 kWh of energy, nine barrels of oil, 54 million BTUs of energy, 60 pounds of air pollutants from being released, 7,000 gallons of water and 3.3 cubic yards of landfill space.

• One ton of recycled plastic saves 5,774 kWh of energy, 16.3 barrels of oil, 98 million BTUs of energy, and 30 cubic yards of landfill space.

For more information, including locations of FCSWD drop-off sites and items FCSWD does and does not accept, visit co.fulton.in.us/department/index.php?structureid=33 or facebook.com/profile. php?id=100064537756163.

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Ralph L. Gunter

U.S. Army Veteran

Ralph L. Gunter, 89, Rochester, passed away at 9:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, 2023, at his residence.

He was born Oct. 1, 1933, in Grass Creek, the son of Cecil and Ruth (Ford) Gunter. On July 18, 1954, at the Fulton United Methodist Church, Fulton, he married Janet Dillman; she survives.

Mr. Gunter had served with the United States Army from 1955 to 1963. He retired from Kaiser Chemical in Fulton and worked with the startup of Buckeye Parachute in Argos.

He was a member of Riverview Community Church. He had been a licensed pilot and enjoyed flying his Piper Cub, Cessna and Bi-Plane Ultralights, many that he had made. He was a long-time member of the FAA and EAA. He was a master of many talents and was always willing to help those in need.

In his leisure time, he enjoyed oil painting, specifically painting nautical themes or Currier & Ives themes, and fly fishing.

Survivors include his wife, Janet Gunter, Rochester; children, Rodney (Isabel) Gunter, Peru, Connie Reffitt (Russell Oberg), Macy, Mark Gunter, Elizabethtown, Ky., and Jennifer (Brandon) Seyer, Mentone; seven grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and five great-greatgrandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Virgil Gunter, Russell Gunter, Raymond Gunter, Harold Gunter, George Gunter and Richard Gunter; sisters, Marjorie Easterday and Mildred Mullins; and granddaughter, Stephnie Jo Reffitt.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 2, at Riverview Community Church, 3780 SR 110, Tippecanoe. Friends may visit from 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1, at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, and one hour prior to the service Thursday at the church. Burial will be in Fulton Cemetery, Fulton.

Memorial contributions may be made to Riverview Community Church.

Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh.com.

Robert Harold Heyde

Former Rochester resident, Robert Harold Heyde, 59, of Chicago, Ill., passed away Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023.

On Feb. 10, 1963, Robert was born in Rochester to James and Lalla Boswell Heyde. He shared his childhood with two brothers, David and Ed. In 1981, he graduated from Rochester High School and in 1985, he graduated from DePauw University. Robert was a member of the United Methodist Church.

Robert is survived by his three children, Caroline Clouser and husband Jordan and their daughters, Mackinley and Reese; Blake Heyde and fiancée Stephanie; and Alec Heyde; brother, David Heyde and wife Alison; niece and nephew, Mason Heyde and wife Aereka and Randall Valin and husband Tim.

Private family services will be held at a later date. The Good Family Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements. Online expressions of sympathy may be made to Robert’s family at goodfamilyfh.com.

Lawrence H. Juniper

Lawrence

Henry Juniper, 87, Winamac , died Monday, Jan. 23, 2023, at Pulaski Health Care Center, Winamac.

He was born Sept. 1, 1935, in West Swanzey, N.H. On Dec. 17, 1966, in Monticello, he married Mavis Jean Felker, who survives.

He also is survived by his children, Linda Greenidge, Larry Juniper Jr., Mike (Candy) Juniper, George Randall Juniper, and David (Brenda Paul) Juniper; son-in-law, Roger Metz; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brother, Charlie Juniper; sister, Ruthie Warren; sister-in-law, Georgia Juniper; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Henry and Elizabeth May “Bessie” Hazard Juniper; daughters, Jeannie Metz and Laureene Buffum; daughter-in-law, Natasha Juniper; and siblings, James Juniper, Elizabeth Walker and William David Juniper.

No information about services was available.

Frain Mortuary, Winamac, handled arrangements.

Reva Lane

Reva Lane, 100, Rochester, died Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023, at her residence.

She was born Jan.

4, 1923, in Granada, Colo. On Nov.

6, 1955, in Joliet, Ill., she married Richard H. Lane, who preceded her in death in 1985.

She is survived by her sons, Don (Margaret) Lane, Kokomo, and Jim Lane, Bargersville; two granddaughters; and several nieces and nephews.

She also was preceded in death by her parents, Emmett A. and Jimmie L. Tabor Autrey, and three siblings.

Private family services will be held. Interment will be in Mount Zion Cemetery, Rochester.

Good Family Funeral Home, Rochester, handled arrangements. Electronic expressions of sympathy may be made to the family at goodfamilyfh.com.

John Klein

John Klein, 84, Winamac, died Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2023, in Panama City Beach, Fla.

He was born Jan. 30, 1938, in Romania. On Nov. 7, 1967, in Germany, he married Theresia Plach, who survives.

He also is survived by his children, Franziska (Ricardo) Mancha, Chicago, Ill., Manuela (Keith) Marvin, Westville, Monika Braun, Brookfield, Ill., Hannelore (Mike) Bachmann, Hobart, and Roy (Nicole) Klein, Montgomery, Ill.; 10 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Maria Gross Klein Sr.

Services were held Saturday, Jan. 28, at Frain Mortuary, Winamac. Burial took place at Winamac Cemetery, McFarland Addition, Winamac.

Online tributes may be offered at frainmortuary.com.

Devon S. Dunnuck

Devon S. Dunnuck, 85, of Akron and the Claypool area, died Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023, at The Waters of Wabash East.

He was born Nov. 10, 1937, in Warsaw. On July 2, 1955, in Tippecanoe, he married Patricia Ann Lozier, who preceded him in death in 1994.

He is survived by his children, Michael (Mary) Dunnuck, Warsaw, and Rob (Becky) Dunnuck, Akron; five grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Geneal Ecker, Plymouth; and his longtime companion, Marilyn Stafford.

He was also preceded in death by his sons, Lee Allen and Gene Dunnuck; parents, Donald and Gladys Snyder Dunnuck; brother, Charles Dunnuck; and sisters, Evelyn Sechrist and Deloris Blackford.

A funeral service was held Wednesday, Feb. 1, at King Memorial Home, Mentone. Interment took place in Mentone Cemetery, Mentone, next to his wife, Pat.

Memorial contributions can be made to Beaver Dam Church/Wheels on Fire to assist community members who are fighting cancer.

Share a memory or online condolence at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.

Judy Kaye Lybarger

Judy Kaye Lybarger, 79, rural Claypool, died Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023, at her residence. She was born June 19, 1943, in Hartford City. On Jan. 3, 1962, in Watervliet, Mich., she married Jon C. Lybarger, who survives.

She also is survived by her children, Michael (Charlene) Lybarger, Edwardsville, Ill., Gregory (Holly) Lybarger, Lincoln, Maine, Patrick Lybarger, Claypool, Lisa (Mark) Demske, Claypool, Daniel Lybarger, Atwood, Jeremy (Krystal) Lybarger, Mentone, Deborah (Dan) Creaghan, Florissant, Mo., Sarah (Mark) Poff, Etna Green, Kat (Kris) Palmer, Iraq, Cassia (Ted) Tuley, Rochester, Joanna (Keith) Egolf, Atwood, and Jonathan Lybarger, Claypool; 24 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren, with one on the way; and brother Dwight (Mary Ann) Payne, Indianapolis.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Jessica Lybarger, and parents, Wright Carson and Wilma Jeanette Garver Payne. A memorial service was held Monday, Jan. 30, at Faith Outreach Center, Rochester. Her interment will take place in the Marion National Cemetery, Marion.

Memorial contributions can be made to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, 444 E St. NW, Washington, DC 20001 or the USO, P.O. Box 96860, Washington, DC 20077-7677.

Share a memory or online condolence at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.

Brandon L. Hepler

Brandon L. Hepler, 52, Bourbon , died Monday, Jan. 23, 2023, in his home. He was born March 12, 1970, in Elkhart. He married Jeniffer Hepler, who preceded him in death in 2018.

He is survived by his daughter, Alexis (Jerod) Grimes, Mishawaka; sons, Cody (Maisie) Hepler, Fort Wayne, and Logan Hepler, Bourbon; three grandchildren; his father, Devon Hepler, Bourbon; sisters, Katie (Austin) Sellers, Bourbon, and Holly (Ryan) Clevenger, Rochester; brother, Jeremy (Laura) Hepler; and his grandmother, Beverly Kiester, Bourbon.

He was also preceded in death by his mother, Lucinda Hepler; his stepmother, Dawn Hepler; paternal grandparents, Wilma and Harvey Hepler; and maternal grandfather, Robert Fear.

Visitation and funeral services were held Wednesday, Feb. 1, at The Country Church, Bourbon. Burial followed in Sandridge Cemetery, Bourbon.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family’s Go Fund Me page at gofund.me/18fe6593 or to Deaton-Clemens Funeral Home, 115 S. Main St., Bourbon IN 46504, to help with funeral expenses.

United Methodist Church Member

Betty Lou Higgins

Betty Lou Higgins, 91, Warsaw, died Monday, Jan. 23, 2023, at Wynnfield Crossing Assisted Living, Rochester.

She was born Feb. 28, 1931, in Etna Green. On March 26, 1950, she married Willard DeLoss Higgins, who preceded her in death in 2010.

She is survived by her children, Patrick (Kristi) Higgins, Warsaw, Meri (Fred) Jessup, Benbrook, Texas, and Melana (David) Smith, Rochester; 11 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; two greatgreat-grandchildren; sister, Anita (Mike) Williamson, Etna Green; and brother, Brad (Jo) Stackhouse, Plymouth.

She also was preceded in death by her parents, Mary Marguerite Austin Stackhouse and O. Paul Stackhouse; a grandson; and brother, Dr. Keith L. Stackhouse.

Betty’s life will be celebrated with a private family service at a later date. She will be laid to rest next to her husband at Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.

Memorial donations may be directed to Christian Military Fellowship, P.O. Box 449, Veradale, WA 99037-0449; on the memo line, write: For Myers: Quantico Ministries Account No. 9025.

Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, Warsaw, is handling arrangements.

Tommy Joe Bonnell

Tommy Joe Bonnell, 71, Indianapolis , died Sunday, Nov. 27, 2022.

He was born Sept. 18, 1951, in Winamac. He was preceded in death by his wife of 47 years and four months, Sarah Lynn Hutchens Bonnell.

He is survived by his children, Shay (Angie) Bonnell, Domenick (Tiffany) Calabrese, Trent Bonnell and Travis (Jessica) Bonnell; 10 grandchildren; sister, Charlene (Jim) Planck; several nieces and nephews; and many friends, students and former employees.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, Sherald L. “Shay” Bonnell and Verla Glenn Haselby Bonnell.

Visitation will be from 2-4 p.m. EST Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023, at Frain Mortuary, 305 E. Main St., Winamac.

A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. EST Saturday, Feb. 18, at Frain Mortuary, Winamac.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be sent to the Community Foundation of Pulaski County, with the donation designated for the Sherald and Verla Bonnell Family Educational Fund. Donations may be made online at cfopc.org in the memory of Tommy J. Bonnell.

Online condolences may be shared at frainmortuary.com.

Terry Alan Jolly Terry

Alan Jolly, 65, Plymouth, died unexpectedly Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023.

He was born Aug. 2, 1957, in Plymouth. On May 14, 1983, in Plymouth, he married Sara Shei, who survives.

He also is survived by his children, Todd (Tonya) Jolly, Rochester, and Daniel (Haley) Jolly, Plymouth; four grandchildren; siblings, Ron (Becky) Jolly, Connie (Dennis) Smith and Tom (Cathy) Jolly; sister-in-law, Lisa Jolly; and many nieces and nephews.

He also was preceded in death by his parents, Marion and Gladys Keel Jolly, and brother, Rob. Funeral services were held Tuesday, Jan. 31, at Johnson-Danielson Funeral Home, Plymouth.

Ruth J. Mercer

Ruth J. Mercer, 84, Rochester , died at home surrounded by her family on Friday, Jan. 27, 2023.

She was born March 21, 1938, in Plymouth.

She is survived by her daughters, Jenny (Ken) Coleman and LuAnn (Rick) Jackson; three grandchildren; four greatgrandchildren; sister, Sharon Thompson; and a special friend who was like a son, Kevin Kollman.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clifford “Sam” and Verna Irene Kimble Fear; her life partner, Ronald Mantey; and brothers, Darwin “Bill” Fear and Robert Dean Fear.

Per her wishes, no public services will be held. She will be laid to rest at Reichter Cemetery, Talma.

Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Warsaw, handled arrangements. To leave a condolence, visit titusfuneralhome.com.

CMarriage Licenses

The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of the Fulton County clerk: Nicolay-Chaffins

Jeffrey Alan Nicolay II, 34, Speedway, and Hallie Brielle Chaffins, 29, Akron.

Burns-Darnell

Ayden M. Burns, 21, Kewanna, and Chloe R. Darnell, 19, Kewanna.

Marriage Dissolutions

The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in Fulton County courts: Salczynski — Madison Salczynski, Rochester, and Ryan Salczynski, Argos. With children.

Myron ‘Bo’ Childs Myron

“Bo” Childs, 78, Macy, died Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023.

He was born March 16, 1944, in Shantytown, Ohio. On May 5, 1969, he married Gloria Jean Hartley, who survives.

He also is survived by his children, Larry Childs, Painesville, Ohio, Mark (Sharon) Childs, Leroy, Ohio, Angela (Jay) Nichols, Ashtabula, Ohio, and Joseph Childs, Kokomo; son-in-law, Jeff Hodson; 14 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchilden; and a great-great-grandchild on the way.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Teresa Childs Marner, in 2018; his parents, Arthur and Matilda Marks Childs; and two canine companions, Sweet Pea and Gus.

A celebration of life will be held from 1-3 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, at the Rodgers Pavilion at Highland Park, 902 W. Deafenbaugh St., Kokomo.

Good Family Funeral Home of Rochester handled arrangements. Electronic expressions of sympathy may be made at goodfamilyfh.com.

Animal sanctuary applauds Big Cat Act

The only cats that are now legal to have as a pet can be found in local shelters, not from the jungle, according to a recent news release from Black Pine Animal Sanctuary, Albion.

On Dec. 20, the Big Cat Public Safety Act was signed into law by President Biden, banning the private ownership of lions, tigers, leopards, cheetahs, jaguars, cougars or any cross-species hybrids of those animals. It makes the practice of cub-petting and photos with cubs illegal and prohibits the breeding of big cats for private ownership, according to the news release.

“We are beyond thrilled to see this bill passed,” Black Pine Animal Sanctuary executive director Trish Nichols said in the release. “It is one more step towards ending the exploitation of animals for profit. We appreciate the support and advocacy from our donors who used their voices to reach out to legislators. On behalf of the Black Pine Animal Sanctuary board, staff and volunteers: Thank you.”

Black Pine Animal Sanctuary, located on 18 acres in Noble County about an hour and a half northeast of Rochester, is the permanent home for four of the tigers seized by the Department of Justice from the Oklahoma zoo featured in a Netflix series.

Elvis, Ima, Price and Patronus are now living in a cared-for environment with individual and natural habitats, proper diets and veterinary care.

The sanctuary is accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries. Black Pine does not buy, sell, breed or trade the animals at the sanctuary. Animals who now live at Black Pine have been surrendered or confiscated by legal authorities and will remain at the sanctuary for the rest of their lives.

The facility is home to more than 60 species of animals, reptiles and birds and includes an Avian Building, Primate House and Reptile House, which are all climate controlled through the cold winter months. Black Pine is open to the public May through October. A variety of educational programs are offered throughout the year.

The sanctuary is also a 501(c)3 nonprofit funded solely by program fees, a gift shop, memberships, fundraising events, sponsorships, individual and business donations, in-kind gifts, employer giving programs, grants and other fundraising initiatives.

For more information, call Nichols at (260) 508-1063 or email her at exec@blackpine. org. Also, you can visit the website at bpsanctuary.org.

Joey Thomas Lewis

Casey and Josh Lewis, Argos, are the parents of a son, Joey Thomas, born at 10:18 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2023, at Woodlawn Hospital, Rochester. He weighed 6 pounds, 7.5 ounces and was 19.25 inches long. He joins siblings Hartley, 3, Joshua, 3, and Alfie, 23 months. Maternal grandparents are Tom and Lisa Overmyer, Argos. Paternal grandparents are Dick and Sue Lewis, Peru.

Landen Lee Hughes Jennifer Dople and Larry Hughes, Mount Vernon, Ill., are the parents of a son, Landen Lee, born at 8:08 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 29, 2022, at Woodlawn Hospital,

Rochester. He weighed 7 pounds, 10 ounces, and was 19.75 inches long.

He joins siblings Luke Brooks, 10, Mark Neubeck III, 15, Larry Hughes Jr., 17, and adult siblings Madison Sommers and Jessica Hughes. Maternal grandparents are Lydia Dople, deceased, and Jerry Spanley, deceased. Paternal grandparents are Donna and Larry Snyder, Mount Vernon, Ill.

Maternal great-grandparents are Stanislawa and Alexei Schupljak, deceased. Paternal great-grandparents are Lester and Frances Snyder, deceased, James Hughes, and Elleyese Hunt, deceased.

Students invited to serve as pages at statehouse

State Rep. Jack Jordan, R-Bremen, invites local students to spend a day serving as a House page at the Indiana Statehouse during the 2023 legislative session.

According to Jordan, Hoosier students ages 13 to 18 can sign up to serve as a page and assist lawmakers and staff with daily duties while touring the governor’s office, the Indiana Supreme Court and the House and Senate chambers.

Moss — Wade A. Moss, Rochester, and Deborah A. Moss, Rochester. With children.

Court News Superior Court

The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Superior Court, Judge Gregory L. Heller presiding: Complaints

U.S. Bank National Association dba Elan Financial Services v. Carol S. Chase, Rochester, $4,351.51. SMS Financial CH LLC v. Ian and Christina Davis, Rochester, $7,841.73. Foreclosures Lakeview Loan Servicing LLC v. Rachel Burns, Macy, and Robert D. Burns, Macy, $67,920.52.

Deutsche Bank National Trust Co., as trustee, v. Shearin D. Poor, Plymouth; William Denver Cavins, Wabash; and James E. Poor Sr. (deceased), $39,525.24.

Traffic Violations

The following fines and levies were assessed in Fulton County courts: Speeding Jesse Daniel Myers, Knoxville, Tenn., $150.50; Charlotte M. Allen, Kewanna, $160.50; Paul E. Naseman, Morley, Mich., $171; Melissa B. Burton, Macy, $150.50; Alexander J. Copeland, Michigan City, $150.50; Ninfa I. Velazquez, Indianapolis, $171; Madisyn J. Nielsen, Dowagiac, Mich., $171; Kadance M. Klug, Wabash, $171. No valid driver’s license, speeding — Justin Borntrager, Rochester, $200.50.

Failure to register — Gary R. Hulen, Crown Point, $160.50. Operating with expired plates — Rafael S. Rosas, Peru, $160.

Failure of occupant to use safety belt — Gabriella G. Bishop, Walkerton, $25; Destiny S. Bajer, Rochester, $25; Alexis L. Bajer, Rochester, $25.

“Students who page are able to get a real, hands-on experience watching the legislative process unfold during their day at the statehouse,” Jordan said in a news release. “This is a great opportunity to learn more about state history, government and public service.”

Jordan said pages will receive an excused absence from school and can participate in groups, such as Girl Scout troops. Hoosiers can visit indianahouserepublicans.com/ pageprogram online or call (800) 382-9841 to sign up their student to participate.

Opportunities to serve as a page are available on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout the session, which must conclude by the end of April. Students are responsible for their lunch and transportation to and from the statehouse.

Jordan represents House District 17, which includes all of Fulton County and portions of Marshall and Pulaski counties.

Commentary — A letter to state lawmakers:

Pass bills that would aid rather than hinder our rural hospitals

Editor’s Note: Alan Fisher is chief executive officer of Woodlawn Hospital, an independent, critical access hospital with clinics in Akron, Argos and Fulton. Fisher started working in health care while in the military and has spent his life in the industry. He is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and holds a Master of Business Administration.

While the Indiana General Assembly debates health care legislation, there is a looming crisis that is going unnoticed. The Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform recently noted that, just in Indiana, “11 hospitals are at risk of closing, and seven of those hospitals are at immediate risk of closing.” Specific hospitals weren’t identified, but a sense of urgency compels me to speak out as the leader of Woodlawn Hospital in Rochester. Unfortunately, my facility is likely one of these at greatest risk. Woodlawn is an independent, critical access hospital with clinics in Akron, Argos and Fulton. Our operational loss for 2021 was $755,000, but the financial headwinds for us and other hospitals picked up speed last year, leaving us with an estimated loss for 2022 of $6.3 million. Our goal for 2023 is to lose just $1.5 million, even after our implementation of more than $3 million in cost reductions.

There are three main reasons

for the current predicament, and they are not unique to Woodlawn.

First, with slow population gains in Fulton County and our region, our opportunity for growth is limited. Community leaders are working hard to attract new businesses, but these efforts will take time. Of course, without a local hospital, economic development would be even more difficult.

The second reason is that major insurance companies pay rural hospitals low reimbursement rates and often force patients to seek care far outside our community. These “care redirection” policies seem to be designed for urban areas with many health care and transportation options, but in my community, they often lead to patients delaying needed care. This harms their health and makes it more difficult to keep our doors open.

The third reason is that as many more Hoosiers gained health care coverage through Medicaid and the Healthy Indiana Plan during the pandemic, hospitals have increasingly had to pick up the bill. Indiana hospitals will pay a total of $1.5 billion in 2023 into the Hospital Assessment Fee to fund these programs, and Woodlawn’s portion is growing quickly, rising from just over

$2 million in 2020 to $3.2 million this year. It is good that we have the Healthy Indiana Plan for so many without other insurance options, but these Hospital Assessment Fee increases are not sustainable.

Without state help on these two latter issues soon, Woodlawn will face difficult decisions about which services it can still provide to stay afloat. Many hospitals across the country, including some in Indiana, have closed their obstetric units due to low birth rates and inadequate reimbursement. More than 60% of all births at Woodlawn are paid through Medicaid, which covers only 53% of the cost of providing care. We do not want the “maternity deserts” that are growing in our region to become larger, but we must also evaluate closing our own unit, which loses almost $2 million annually.

Currently, there are several bills introduced regarding health care costs that exempt countyowned and rural hospitals like mine. While this is better than being hammered by some of these proposals, simply being left out of that legislation doesn’t help us remain open for the citizens of Fulton County. But with state financial support for hospitals, similar to what is being proposed in states from Michigan to Mississippi, we can keep Woodlawn open as a “maternity oasis” and a cornerstone of the local economy.

Critical access hospitals face a double-edged sword — on one side, our costs are fixed due to minimum staffing requirements for all departments, and on the other side are governmental regulations, which limit our ability to manage expenses. For this reason, legislation for critical access hospitals like ours must be developed in such a way to ensure the continued viability of the organization into the future. We implore legislators to pass bills that would aid rather than hinder our rural facilities and the communities we serve.

Share what God has done

(Read: Psalm 22:1-31)

“I will declare thy name unto my brethren: in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee.” (Psalm 22:22)

There are three familiar and beloved psalms that present Jesus Christ as the Shepherd, each one emphasizing a different aspect of his person and his work. Psalm 22 pictures the Good Shepherd dying for the

Let’s study the Bible

sheep (John 10:11); Psalm 23 the Great Shepherd caring for the sheep (Hebrews 13:20-21); and Psalm

24 the Chief Shepherd coming for the sheep (1 Peter 5:4). In other words, Christ died for us (past), Christ lives for us (present), and Christ will come for us (future). There will be a second coming, and we will all be accountble for our life.

First, Christ is the Good

Shepherd (Psalm 22:1-21). This psalm presents the crucifixion of Christ in verses 1-21 and his resurrection in verses 22-31. Since the Jews did not know of crucifixion back in David’s time, this vivid description of Christ’s death on the cross could only have been penned by inspiration of the Spirit. It is interesting to contrast the two sections of this psalm. In verses 1-21 we see Christ’s suffering and crucifixion, while in verses 22-31 we see his glory and resurrection. The first passage depicts pain and prayer; the second passage depicts praise and promise. And the first shows Christ in

Use it or lose it: Keeping active during winter months

Editor’s Note: Amy Rupley is a physical therapist at Woodlawn Hospital, Rochester. She holds a doctorate in physical therapy and is also an athletic trainer. If you would like to schedule an appointment with her or one of her colleagues, call (574) 224-1160.

Indiana winters seem to drag on forever during the ear-

ly months of the year, and then those first few warm days send everyone outside to get some much needed vitamin D and fresh air. These brief periods of high activity during an otherwise sedentary time of the year can

Beacon Credit Union names vice president of marketing

Beacon Credit Union, Wabash, has named Jason Souther as vice president of marketing.

In his role, Souther will oversee Beacon’s branding efforts and shape marketing strategies to expand the credit union’s standing as a financial institution. He is responsible for tracking and analyzing performance of advertising campaigns and ensuring that all marketing material is in line with the credit union’s brand identity.

Souther joined Beacon in 2020 as the brand manager. During his tenure, he brought together and led the brand team to build alignment between brand and business strategy.

“Jason is a valued part of our team,” said Marc Briney, chief marketing officer. “He is very passionate about branding, ad-

vertising and marketing and will help us continue to grow as a credit union to better serve our members.”

Souther holds a Bachelor of Science from Grace College, graduate certificate and Master of Business Administration in Marketing from Indiana Institute of Technology.

Souther resides in Kosciusko County with his wife and two children.

the midst of his enemies; the second, Christ in the midst of the church.

It is not difficult to see the fulfillment of this chapter in the New Testament story of the cross: Verse 1 — Christ spoke these words — (Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34). Verse 2 — Alternate light and darkness (Matthew 27:45). Verses 6-8)

— The reproach of the people (Matthew 27:39-44). Verses 11-12 — No help was offered Him (Matthew. 26:56). Verse 16 — His hands and feet pierced (Matthew 27:35). Verse 17 — People staring at him (Luke 23:35). Verse 18 — Gambling for his garments (John 19:2324)

Second, Christ is the Risen Savior (Psalm 22: 22-31). The scene changes, and we move into resurrection. See Hebrews

put you at increased risk of injury. Staying active during the colder months will allow you to safely jump right back into those spring activities, such as golfing, hiking, pickleball or gardening.

Here are three tips to keep you moving this winter: Try indoor workouts. There are thousands of free online exercise programs available to meet all levels of physical activity.

Park far away from the supermarket entrance and walk briskly through the parking lot when weather conditions allow. Avoid icy areas and watch for traffic.

Set “activity reminders” on your phone or smart watch to encourage walking throughout the day. It’s easy to get cozy on the couch and without realizing it be inactive for hours at a time. Little reminders throughout the day can be super beneficial to increasing your activity.

You don’t have to hibernate during the winter months. Stay active and spring will arrive before you know it.

2:11-12 for the New Testament explanation of this. Jesus Christ is no longer on the cross; He is in the midst of his brethren (the church) declaring the glory of God. Verse 24 must be read in connection with Hebrews 5:7. This final section is filled with praise: in the church (verse 22), in Israel (verses 23-26), and among the Gentiles (verses 27-31). Verse 31 (NKJV) ends, “He has done this,” paralleling Jesus’ words, “It is finished.” Because of Jesus Christ’s work on the cross, salvation has been accomplished and all who come to Him by faith will have their sins forgiven.

Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines at www.rcpbibleoutlines.com free on the website. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.

Updates and happenings in the area

The Fulton County Soil and Water Conservation District is inviting the public to its annual meeting and banquet dinner.

The event will take place at 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6, at the Geneva Center, 5282 N. Old 31, Rochester. The featured speaker will be Mandi Glanz, regional specialist with the State of Indiana Cooperative Invasives Management. She will speak about the agency, invasive species and the role of a cooperative invasive species management area.

The event is free, but dinner reservations are required as soon as possible. To make a reservation, call (574) 223-3220, ext. 3.

—o—

The American Red Cross is holding a blood drive from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, at St. Joseph Parish Hall, 1320 Main St., Rochester.

The next day, from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, the Red Cross will hold a blood drive at Rochester High School, 1 Zebra Lane, Rochester.

Whole blood as well as “Power Red” donations of red cells will be taken at both events. If you give blood during the month of February, you’ll receive a $10 gift card by email from Amazon, and you’ll also get a chance to win a trip to Florida. Find out more by visiting rcblood. org/heart or redcrossblood.org.

—o—

Artist Evan Lace, also known as “Lace CreationZ,” of Cincinnati, Ohio, will have a meet and greet at the Native Nook art gallery, downtown Rochester, from 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4. Live music by Adam Gundrum starts at 5 p.m.

Lace started painting at live events in 2015. His style combines pop art and comic art with psychedelia. His website is lacecreationz. com. Lace will be a new member of the Nook through August.

—o—

If you want an easy, full meal with dessert and want to benefit a local cause at the same time, get your tickets for the fish and tenderloin dinner sponsored by the Fulton County 4-H Horse and Pony Club, to be held from 4-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at the Fulton County 4-H Fairgrounds. You can drive through and pick up prepurchased dinners or stop by to purchase carry-out meals. Presale tickets for children ages zero to 12 are $8, and presale tickets for adults are $12. If you buy your tickets at the door, they’ll each cost 50 cents more.

For information or tickets, call Leslie Crissinger at (574) 8350255, Linda Herendeen at (574) 551-4182, Keisha Troutman at (574) 835-9551, Julie Moore at (574) 505-0042 or David Leavell at (219) 670-2390.

Dan’s Fish Fry Service, Huntington, will be preparing the fish

and tenderloin.

—o

The James R.C. Adams String Quartet will perform at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, at Honeywell House, 720 N. Wabash St., Wabash. The concert is free, but reservations are required because of limited seating. Reservations can be made at honeywellarts.org or (260) 563-1102.

The quartet is a new outreach ensemble of the Manchester Symphony Orchestra and is comprised of Kristin Westover, violin; Joyce Dubach, violin; Margaret Sklenar, viola; and Robert Lynn, cello. The quartet is named after a longtime professor of art at Manchester University who wrote program notes for the symphony concerts for many years. The quartet’s mission is to bring live music to a broader range of people, places and the community. The ensemble is funded by a grant from the Community Foundation of Wabash County.

—o—

Pick up some reading material at the Akron Carnegie Public Library’s midwinter book sale, which runs Monday through Friday, Feb. 6-10. Also, the library is cleaning out vintage magazines from 1955 to 2000, including the Saturday Evening Post, Look, Life, Collier’s and Holiday. The magazines will be upstairs in the genealogy room and will be priced at a dollar or less per magazine. The library, located at 205 E. Rochester St., Akron, is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Play4JA bowl-a-thon begins Feb. 26

Teams of bowlers are getting ready to hit the lanes for the Play4JA bowl-a-thon. They’ve been securing pledges and making

inter-team challenges, all to support Junior Achievement’s workreadiness, entrepreneurship and fiContinued on page 9

Movie shot in Kosciusko, Fulton Counties in final editing

The producer of a movie filmed locally last year says the picture is in final editing.

Anthem Entertainment’s Joshua Stutzman said the drama “Now I See” should be in “picture lock” this weekend.

That means “the edit is finished and the composers, sound designers and mixers, visual effects artists and colorists will take over and make the final changes to the film based on the edit,” he said.

“Now I See” was filmed in spring 2022 in parts of Fulton and Kosciusko counties, including Mentone, where Stutzman’s originally from. His wife Carissa Stutzman was inspired by a local home to write the screenplay.

She also directed the film in which a blind woman Claire Lewis searches for her missing six-yearold daughter Briar. The film’s ac-

Play4JA

Continued from page 8

nancial literacy programs for young people of all ages.

Play begins Sunday, Feb. 26, at Country Lanes, 1988 N. Old US 31, in Rochester. Teams will play from 1-3 p.m. and 3-5 p.m.

“Fulton County has a tradition of amazing year-round celebrations, and JA is proud to offer the Play4JA bowl-a-thon as one of those traditions,” said Beth Miller, area manager, Junior Achievement of Fulton County.

tors include Annalise Basso who’s played LJ Folger on the TV series, “Snowpiercer,” and Steven Ogg, who appeared as Simon on “The Walking Dead.”

Joshua Stutzman also detailed

“Play4JA is a way for our community to support JA’s mission of preparing young people for the opportunities and realities of work in the 21st century marketplace.”

For more than 1,159 students each year across Fulton County, Junior Achievement’s volunteer-delivered economic education experiences foster work-readiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy skills and use experiential learning to inspire students to dream big and reach their potential.

Rochester High School recruitment event coming May 3

Business owners interested in highlighting their businesses and hiring Rochester High School students are invited to “Recruit at Rochester High School,” 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 3.

Each business will have a table in the main gym provided by the school.

Setup starts at 8 a.m., with meet and greet with students from 9-11 a.m. Students will sign up for open interviews. Student

interests are summer employment as well as full time for soonto-be-graduates.

Open interviews are 12:30-2:30 p.m.

Contact Lauri Atkinson with questions at lauryn.atkinson@ zebras.net or (574) 223-2176 ext. 4002.

To reserve a table, contact Kristin Horn at kristin.horn@zebras. net or (574) 223-2176, ext. 4000, no later than April 21.

the final stages of completing the movie before it can be distributed. That includes constructing a musical score and adding sound and special effects.

The film will then be ready for distribution or marketing to hopefully be picked up to go into theaters or another screening medium.

“We do not have a distributor locked, but we have at least three interested in screening the film upon completion in consideration of distribution,” said Joshua Stutzman.

A release date will be dependent on a distributor’s decision, he said.

“We would like to say how grateful we are to the Mentone community and surrounding area for their support of this film,” he added.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

BUYER BEWARE The Shopping Guide News cannot screen all advertisements to eliminate possibilities of fraud or misleading information. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Persons responding to ads are advised to contact the Better Business Bureau in your area or the Indiana Secretary of State’s Fraud Hotline before sending any money.

1-800-223-8791

ROUND UP THE SAVINGS IN THE CLASSIFIEDS

Personal Notices A090

LOOKING TO BUY HUNTING

PROPERTY - Anything from woods to swamp. Call or text Greg, 574-727-0329.

BUSINESS SERVICES

Handyman C157

Misc. Service C430

Unlimited Data is Here. Stream Video. Bundle TV & Internet. Free Installation. Call 866-499-0141

Attention Homeowners! If you have water damage and need cleanup services, call us! We’ll get in & work with your insurance agency to get your home repaired and your life back to normal ASAP! 855-767-7031

Insurance C200

Dental insurance - Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Covers 350 procedures. Real insurance - not a discount plan. Get your free dental info kit!

1-855-526-1060 www.dental50plus.com/ads #6258

Mechanical Services C228

WALNUT REPAIR, starters, alternators, generators, costume hydraulic hoses & battery cables, tractor repair, mag neto repair, Mon.-Sat. dawn to dusk. 574-892-5968

TV Satellite C400

DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/21/23.

1-866-479-1516

Misc.

MobileHelp,

General Employment E030

DSP

BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable pricesNo payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 855-761-1725 Caring for an aging loved one? Wondering about options like senior-living communities and in-home care? Caring.com’s Family Advisors help take the guesswork out of senior care for your family. Free, no-obligation consult: 1-855-759-1407

Free high speed internet if qualified. Govt. pgm for recipients of select pgms incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet. Android tablet free w/one-time $20 copay. Free shipping. Call Maxsip Telecom! 1-833-758-3892

Switch and save up to $250/yr on talk, text & data. No contract or hidden fees. Unlimited talk & text with flexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. Limited time get $50 off any new account. Use code GIFT50.

1-855-903-3048

Manitou Training Center has a full-time opening for a DSP (Direct Support Staff) working with individuals with developemntal disabilities. Valid driver’s license required. No experience necessary, training is provided. Apply at 1690 E. Lucas St., Rochester, IN or online at www.msdcin.org

√Check Out Our Classifieds

Work Wanted E080

HONEY DO HANDYMAN & RENO. We do it all - remodels, repairs, scrap removal, lawn care and all your general home needs. Give Brad or Jessica a call at 574-253-5462, we would love to be able to help.

FARM

Horses & Equipment G060

HORSE PASTURE FOR RENT, Willow Creek Farm, Silver Lake. 24/7 access, clean water, shelter, hitching posts, horse trails, tack storage. Hay provided during winter. Need updated Coggins vaccines. No studs. $275/month plus deposit. 574-377-2040

Pike Garage Doors Inc.

Bell Memorial Public Library events this week

Bell Memorial Public Library in Mentone now offers Overdrive. If you would like to join Indiana’s Digital Library to have access to e-books, audio books, magazines, as well as collections for teens and kids, you will need to register at the library first by calling or stopping by in person. Contact us a (574)

MERCHANDISE

Fuel/Firewood P100

FOR SALE WOOD, $50 a load, picked up. 574-223-6937

Health Aids P140

Attention oxygen therapy users! Inogen

One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. Free info kit. Call 877-929-9587

Health/Fitness P150

893-3200 or email sboggs@bell. lib.in.us.

Join BMPL every Friday (except holidays and during our SRP) for Preschool Story Hour.

Story hour is held in the Children’s Room and begins at 2 p.m. This is a free program for children 2-6 years of age. Children listen to a story and com-

PETS

Dogs/Cats/Pets Q010

CKC SHIHTZU PUPPIES, got first shots and wormed, hypoallergenic. $700. 574-542-4413

REAL ESTATE RENTALS

Buildings For Rent U030

LIONS CLUB BUILDING - Special occasions, receptions, graduations, reunions. 574-223-0563

Misc. Merchandise P200

MARTIN, etc. 1930’s to 1980’s. TOP DOLLAR PAID. CALL TOLL FREE

1-866-433-8277

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC home standby generator $0

Down + Low Monthly Pmt Request a free Quote. Call before the next power outage:

1-855-948-6176

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855-417-1306

The Generac PWRcell solar plus battery storage system. Save money, reduce reliance on grid, prepare for outages & power your home. Full installation services. $0 down financing option. Request free no obligation quote. 1-877-539-0299

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936

TRANSPORTATION

BUYING JUNK VEHICLES. Paying cash! Top dollar, will pick up. Call anytime 574-505-0855.

Misc. Auto W100

Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans FastFREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

plete a craft project or activity related to that week’s theme. Please contact Pat at (574) 8933200 or PLancet@bell.lib.in.us for questions.

The library is still in need of donations for the hygiene cabinet. Items needed are: Deodorant (guys and ladies), body wash, bar soap, shampoo, toothpaste, tooth brushes, razors (guys and ladies), Feminine napkins (pads), tampons, combs and brushes, shaving cream, mouth wash, lotions, clothes

all sizes (good condition), hats and gloves. Donations can be dropped off at the front desk. For questions, please contact Natalie Salazar at (574) 8933200.

The Makerspace is available for public use during regular business hours. The Cricut machine (along with tools) is for public use as well. Bring your own supplies necessary to complete your project. We do have a Design Space account set up for patron usage if you don’t have

one of your own. Please contact a staff member from the Library at (574) 893-3200 with any questions you might have.

The library always offers curbside services. Please call (574) 893-3200 to request materials. You can also email Stephen Boggs at sboggs@bell.lib.in.us.

In need of Notary Public services? BMPL has a notary public available Monday to Thursday. Services are free of charge.

Bell Memorial Public Library is at 101 W. Main St, Mentone.

Hearing loss linked to cognitive decline

Editor’s Note: Chuck Smith is a licensed hearing care practitioner and owner of Affordable Hearing, with offices in Rochester and Logansport. He specializes in testing and fitting hearing aids, tinnitus therapy, hearing conservation and cerumen management (ear wax removal).

Recent studies have revealed a strong link between hearing loss and cognitive decline. This link has been found in both older and younger adults, suggesting that hearing loss may be an important risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia.

One study found that older adults with hearing loss were more likely to have cognitive decline, including a decline in memory and thinking skills. The study followed over 1,200 adults aged 60 and older for an average of 12 years and found that those with hearing loss were more likely to have cognitive decline than those with normal hearing. The study also found that the risk of cognitive decline increased with the severity of hearing loss.

Another study found that older adults with hearing loss were more likely to develop dementia. The study followed over 2,000 adults aged 70 and older for an average of 12 years and found that those with hearing loss were more likely to develop dementia than those with normal hearing. The risk of dementia

increased with the severity of hearing loss.

A recent study also found that hearing loss could be linked with cognitive decline in younger adults. The study found that adults aged 18 to 35 with hearing loss were more likely to have cognitive decline than those with normal hearing. This suggests that hearing loss may be an early indicator of cognitive decline, even in younger adults.

I have spoken to many younger adults within the age simi-

lar to the study who have complained of trouble hearing in certain situations. That there is now a study concluding that untreated hearing loss is definitively linked to early cognitive decline is alarming.

Unfortunately, many people with hearing loss wait to seek treatment “until it gets bad.” By that time, though, the damage is done when it comes to their cognition.

The age of the patients we see at our Rochester and Logansport offices is significantly younger than when I started in the hearing health care industry over 23 years ago.

Folks see how their parents waited too long to address their hearing needs and have learned from their mistakes and are more willing to invest in their own hearing needs sooner.

The exact mechanism by which hearing loss leads to cognitive decline is not yet fully understood. However, it is believed that the brain has to work harder to process sounds when there is hearing loss, which can lead to cognitive decline.

Caston Athletic League registration is open thru March 1

Caston Athletic League online registration is open until March 1 at castonathleticleague.com for teeball, 8u-12u softball and 8u-12u baseball. From March 2 to March 5, late registration is open with an extra fee of $25 per

player. If you have questions or are in need of a sponsor for your child, contact Michelle Boldry at (574) 721-2504. Visit the website for more information on registration and pricing for the 2023 season.

Rochester wrestling wins third straight sectional title

Editor’s

Note: Val Tsoutsouris is sports editor for Rochester Telephone Co. and writes the Val T Sports blog at rtc4sports.com.

The Rochester wrestling team won its third consecutive sectional title at the Peru sectional Saturday in Peru.

Rochester scored 272 points to top the 10-team field. Corunners-up Maconaquah and North Miami had 193 points each.

The third straight sectional title came one week after the Zebras won their third straight Three Rivers Conference title. Eight of the 10 teams in the Peru sectional are also in the TRC.

Rochester qualified 12 individuals for regionals, seven of whom were sectional champions. The sectional champions include Layne Horn (106), Ethan Holloway (120), Aaron Swango (126), Greyson Gard

(152), Brant Beck (160), Alex Deming (195) and Brady Beck (220).

Horn, ranked No. 1 in the state in his weight class, per indianamat.com; Deming, ranked No. 6; and Brady Beck, ranked No. 2, are all still undefeated on the season. Holloway has lost just once, and Gard and Brant Beck have lost just twice each.

The other five Zebras to advance were Gavin McKee, who was second at 182 pounds, Carlos Ordu o, second at heavyweight; Joey Spencer, third at 132; D.J. Basham, third at 138; and Colin Weiand, third at 170.

Declan Gard, who placed fifth at 145, will be an alternate.

The top four wrestlers in each weight class advanced to the regional, which Peru will also host this Saturday.

Perhaps the most impressive performance from a Zebra came from freshman Brant Beck, who beat second-ranked and previously unbeaten Logan Farnell from Maconaquah 8-6 in the final at 160. Farnell, a senior who will attend the University of Indianapolis to wrestle, had defeated Brant Beck 10-6 in the conference final at Maconaquah one week earlier.

Brant Beck later said he

watched video of the conference match with Farnell about 10 times to prepare himself for a potential rematch. Attacking Farnell’s legs to record three takedowns, he raised his arms when the buzzer sounded.

The top-ranked Horn defeated Manchester’s Rex Moore 7-2 in the 106 final after two firstperiod falls. Moore has lost just three matches this season, but two are to Horn.

With help from a forfeit in his bracket, Deming spent only one minute on the mat prior to the final, which he won 14-3 over Manchester’s long-limbed Preston Duffy.

Brady Beck won all three of his matches by fall to improve to 35-0. In a rematch of his TRC final with Wabash’s Elias Cressell, he pinned Cressell in 3:07.

Holloway beat Manchester’s Jordan Owens 13-2 in the final after two falls. A potential matchup with Western’s Tanner Tishner, who handed Holloway his only loss in a dual meet on Dec. 20, is a possibility at the regional.

Swango did not yield a takedown all day, which he capped with a 7-1 win over Maconaquah’s Alex Ousley in the final.

Greyson Gard, ranked No. 11 in the state, won both of his matches by fall, including a win over North Miami’s Jordon Simon in the final. A matchup with Western’s Mitchell Betz, who handed Gard one of his two losses in that Dec. 20 dual, is a possibility at the regional.

Girls Basketball: Caston 47, Rochester 25 Addison Zimpleman hit three 3-pointers and scored a gamehigh 13 points, Bailey Harness added 12, and Isabel Scales scored her 1,000th career point for the Caston girls basketball team in a 47-25 win over visiting Rochester Saturday in Fulton.

Scales, a junior, came in needing eight points for 1,000 for her career, and she got to the milestone on a free throw with 6:42 left in the first half. The game was briefly stopped for a photo opportunity and the presentation of a poster to mark the milestone. Scales finished with exactly eight points.

It’s believed that Scales is the third Caston girl to reach 1,000 points. She is believed to be the first to do it in the last 25 years.

Caston scored the first 17 points of the game and never trailed. The Class 1A, No. 3

Lady Comets broke a two-game losing streak.

Rily Holloway scored eight points to lead Rochester. Kallie Watson and Ella McCarter scored six each, and Rylee Clevenger scored five.

Caston improved to 20-2 overall and 10-0 at home. Caston received a sectional bye and will play either West Central or North White in the semifinals at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3. Rochester finished the regular season 11-12.

The Rochester-Caston game was a late addition to the schedule. Caston was scheduled to host Bremen on Thursday, but that game was canceled due to inclement weather. The Lady Z’s were scheduled to host Northfield on Thursday and then again on Friday, but once the weather would not allow those games to happen, Rochester and Caston got together for a game.

Boys Basketball: Rochester

68, North White 37

Luke Hunting scored 22 points, and Paul Leasure added 21 to lead the Rochester boys basketball team to a 68-37 home win over North White Saturday night.

Rochester (8-5) opened the game on a 15-4 run and went on another 13-0 run in the second quarter to build a 22-point lead.

They led by as many as 34 points in the fourth quarter.

Dane Hood had 21 points, and Lukas Smith added 12 for North White (3-11).

The Rochester-Northfield game postponed on Friday has been rescheduled for 1 p.m./2:30 p.m. (JV/Varsity) Feb. 4.

Bowling: Navarro

Qualifies For State

Rochester’s Enrique Navarro finished second in the individual competition at the boys bowling semistate at Pro Bowl West in Fort Wayne Saturday. He will bowl again at the state finals at Royal Pin Western Saturday, Feb. 11, in Indianapolis.

Navarro rolled a 639 series with a 226 high game and later bowled a 256 in the stepladder finals.

Noblesville’s Cayden Russell beat Navarro 278-222 in the final match.

Please ask me

Editor’s Note: Rochester resident Russ Davidson shares the following questions he thinks a son might like to explore with his father.

These are things a son should ask his dad:

1. When did you become a man?

2. What is the most important thing in your life?

3. Did you have a role model?

4. When did you decide you needed a good education?

5. How important is church?

6. How many friends do I need?

7. Will God get me a new bicycle if I pray for one?

FULTON COUNTY SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT

FULTON COUNTY SWCD

Dustin Zellers - Chairman

Kyle Riffle - Vice-Chairman

SUPERVISORS

Matt Harsh - Secretary/Treasurer

Mike Norman - Member/Supervisor

Adam Luhnow - Member/Supervisor

Glen

Art

Jones - Associate Supervisor

Gudas - Associate Supervisor

New executive director accomplishments

With much help from Jodi Coblentz, Megan Malott was able put together and submit a Clean Water Indiana grant request of $73,000.

This grant would be for three years: $60,000 for cover crop cost share program; $10,000 for pollinator habitat; and $3,000 for educational. Megan was able to meet and partner with Columbia Elementary and Caston Elementary to purchase pollinator educational classroom garden kits. She was approved for the grant, which will start this year, in October.

Office Updates

Fulton County SWCD was able to update the office with purchases of a new computer, printer and desk and filing system. We were able to transfer the bookkeeping from hand to electronic. This was a huge transition that entailed much work.

Education

Megan has attended many educational events at Purdue University for small farms and wetlands. She is currently working toward her certification of the Watershed Academy through Purdue.

Community Outreach

Megan was able to help with the FFA soil judging.

She reached out and connected with Linda Ruhl at the Kewanna Library to

start some conservation educational programs. Valerie Gordon and Megan were able to host a Monarch Life Cycle program in December.

Megan also assisted with the high school river rafting at Tippecanoe State Park with the Arrow Head RC&D and the 14 surrounding soil and water district high schools. On one of the five days, her team, “Team Black,” won.

The educational outreach teaches high school students about watersheds, water testing and quality, aquatic river life, history of the Tippecanoe River, best management practices, forestry, mussels and river otters — all of which they are tested on —and “team building” skills.

Lastly, while working and meeting with other local districts, Megan met with Leah Walthery from Cass County SWCD and SICIM regional specialist Mandi Glanz to discuss the start of a CISMA between Fulton and Cass counties.

New full-time employee

I love nature and increasing wildlife habitat on my husband’s and my 40 acres in Cass County. This is how I came into this career position. I honestly did not know what to expect when entering this job. God keeps opening doors and blessing me along the way with a wonderful board of supervisors and associates, co-workers, partners and new friendships.

I have more opportunities to learn about conservation and the ability to do fun, educational outreaches to both youth and adults. My children, nieces and nephews en-

joy participating in the conservation educational activities. I tell everyone if ever God made the perfect job for me this would be it.

I may not know everything, but I have a willingness to learn. I hope this year to be able to meet and learn from the farmers here in Fulton County on conservation methods they are utilizing and issues they are facing and receive input on programs and/or resources they are interested in learning about that soil and water can bring to the table to help put them into practice.

I believe if we all work together, it is a win-win for the community and our environment.

Monarch butterfly education outreach

On Dec. 14, 2022, Kewanna Union Township Public Library, along with Fulton County Soil and Water, hosted Rochester native Valerie Gordon, a monarch butterfly educator, to speak to the community.

Gordon’s journey with monarchs began October 2015 when in Terlingua, Texas, she came across a group of migrating monarchs at a watering hole in the middle of the desert outside Big Bend National Park.

She returned to Kokomo, where she was living at the time, and ripped up a large part of her yard and began planting milkweed and other plants the pollinators needed to survive.

As time went on, she researched the problems facing the monarchs and other pol-

linators. She began collecting monarch eggs and caterpillars to observe their life cycle. She then began to share her knowledge with local groups as a speaker and provided caterpillars to local schools for the students to observe the transitional process into a butterfly. She then helped facilitate butterfly releases in the community and schools.

Gordon, along with the Howard County Master Gardeners and Howard County South Branch library, received a grant to establish a butterfly garden in Kokomo, where monarch releases and educational programs were held for the public.

Everyone young and aged can join in from their home gardens or as groups in combined

efforts under a common purpose to help save our butterflies and pollinators. The addition of native plant species and milkweed, using fewer chemicals and timed mowing of ditches to first allow the migrating monarchs to leave our area at the end of October each year are key to saving the monarchs.

Gordon has returned to the Rochester area after five years in Texas and is joining with Fulton County Water and Soil to be available to help educate those interested in monarchs.

Please watch for upcoming opportunities through Fulton County SWCD.

For monarch questions, please contact the Fulton County Soil & Water Conservation District at (574) 223-3220.

Election of supervisor

A soil and water conservation supervisor of Fulton County is a public official elected or appointed to sit on a board of five individuals to serve a three-year term. After serving that term, they have the option of running for reelection or reappointment by the State Soil Conservation Board.

A supervisor’s duties include identifying soil and water resource concerns in our county and to connect land users to sources of education and financial support that can assist them in implementing such practices on their individual farm. Local citizens recognize the district as a key leader in our soil and water quality.

The district’s information and education outreach programs focus on many related natural resource concerns such as water infiltration, erosion control and soil health. This year, the nominating committee has nominated Drew McCulley to run for election for Fulton County supervisor.

Drew moved to Fulton County shortly after he married his wife, Stephanie (Shriver) McCulley. They reside with their two children, Emery and Benton, at Valhalla Farms, a blueberry farm west of Rochester they purchased in early 2021.

Drew graduated from Purdue University in 2010 with a major in agricultural sales and marketing. After graduation, he spent eight years working for retailers such as Landmark Coop and Nutrien Ag Solutions.

In 2018, he left retail agriculture and was a business development manager for the Midwest for a private crop insurance

company based out of Canada.

Currently, Drew is a seed advisor with Beck’s Hybrids, covering five surrounding counties, and works with Dick Sims Crop Insurance out of Logansport.

He is passionate about soil and water conservation, especially on his farm. We utilize several soil biological products within the blueberry production aspect of the farm, alongside water testing and soil moisture probes to monitor irrigation practices.

Fulton County SWCD brief history of being formed

It is again time for us, as a district, to give an account of our activities for the year.

Each year in January, we look at the road we traveled to see how far we have gone and where we want to go in the coming year. This year we are traveling back to the early 1940s to observe some major historical milestones.

The information focuses on the establishment of Fulton County SWCD and some of the first founders, board members and associates who helped plow the way.

First Meeting On Formation Of District

Two or three years before the formation of the district, the Extension Advisory Committee to the county agent discussed the need for erosion control in the county. The Land Use Planning Committee started

functioning in the spring of 1939. The first study was completed, along with a report in the fall of 1939. This was the forerunner of the formation of the district.

The Henry Township Committee also recommended a district be formed. At the recommendation of the committees, the county agricultural agent called in Harry Rosenburry and his assistant. They took steps to carry out the committees’ wishes and initiated the formation by holding the first meeting on Jan. 22, 1940, in the basement of the Akron Library.

The farm leaders of the township gathered and the district laws were explained and purposes for which a district would be formed were discussed. Their ideas were secured on matters as to interest, etc. Twenty

farm leaders were present, all of whom voted favorably toward the formation of such a district.

Second Meeting

The second meeting was held Jan. 29, 1940, with 60 farmers present to discuss matters more thoroughly and sign petitions asking the State Soil Conservation Board to hold a hearing. The following men were appointed to carry petitions and secure additional signatures: Cleotus Smith, J.R. Miller, Roscoe Burkett, Frank Dawson, Max Kuhn, Whitney Gast and Ray Wildermuth.

The petitions were circulated and sent to the state committee, and a date was set for the hearing for Feb. 27, 1940. The hearing was favorable and the referendum was set for April 3, 1940. The referendum was con-

ducted on April 3 with 104 persons casting votes; 96 voted in favor and eight against.

Election Of Supervisors

Around April 15, the state board appointed supervisors to the board: Whitney Gast as chairman and Roscoe Burkett as vice chairman. A referendum was set for July 27, 1940, for the election of three elected supervisors. The following three supervisors were elected: Ralph Lukens, J.R. Miller and Roy Jones. The oath of office was administered by the county agent on Aug. 13, 1940, and Akron Soil Conservation District was formed.

Some major problems that confronted the supervisors have been those of organization, preparing a work plan and trying to Continued on page 5

Fulton County SWCD brief history

raise funds to provide an office for the district conservationist.

Boundaries

Over the next five years, interest grew and so did the boundaries. The district, people and farmers within the community, as well as businesses, came together. They showed their support through donations, services, technical assistance and labor, hosting educational activities, workshops and programs.

Some of these included county agent M. J. Huxley, the township committeemen, 4-H Club Show, Akron Jonah Club, Akron Fair, Chamber Of Commerce of Akron, Henry Township Farm Bureau, county surveyor Dale Zimmerman, county AAA office, Akron News, local papers, Soil Conservation Service, county agricultural agent and the SCS-CCC-Camp-16, the Soil Conservation Service-Civilian Conservation Core, located in Peru.

District Relocation

In 1945, the activities started off by moving the district office from Akron to Rochester. This was to have the office and headquarters centrally located in the district, which had been enlarged from one township (Henry) to all of Fulton County except Liberty and Newcastle townships. At this same time, the name was changed to Fulton County Soil Conservation District.

When this district was enlarged, Henry North, soil conservationist, went to Iowa and A. L. Goodrich, soil conservationist, and S. J. Smucker, assistant soil conservationist, came to assist the district. As usual in a new territory, work progressed rather slowly.

Since all five supervisors lived in Henry Township, the original district, the board of supervisors felt the other townships should be represented on the board; therefore, five assistant supervisors were elected by the people to meet with the board and represent their townships. The supervisors were Ros-

coe J Burkett, chairman; Homer Saner, secretary/treasurer; Turner Biddle; C. G. Smith; and Harley Rogers. The assistant supervisors were Harry Overmyer, Perry Troutman, E. L. Mitchell and William B Hizer.

Water Conservation Focus

During the annual meeting on Feb. 2, 1961, such accomplishments noted included 911 farms covering 117,239 acres participating in conservation plans, sponsoring land judging contests for FFA and 4-H groups, providing soil and water conservation literature to Fulton County schools and civil and educational and social groups.

It was at this meeting the name was once again changed, this time to the Fulton County Soil & Water Conservation District. A group was formed to inventory all Fulton County resources and problems and a program planned to solve the economic, social and recreational problems based on the best use of soil and water.

Mill Creek Conservancy District Formation

As a result of a petition for a conservancy district, which was signed by over 75% of the landowners, the Fulton Circuit Court judge established the Mill Creek Conservancy District on Dec. 21, 1965, as the best legal method of obtaining and maintaining the drainage system. Judge Rakestraw then appointed Loren Cunningham, Everett Rentschler and Herman Simshauser as directors, with Cunningham serving as chairman.

In 1967, the Fulton County Soil & Water Conservation District worked progressively toward bettering farmers. The district supervisors were active participating members of the state and national associations.

The Indiana Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts elected Delbert Hunter as treasurer, Harold Wilson as secretary, Elbert Roe as vice-president and T. J. Wright as president. The women’s auxiliary of the IASWCD were elected, including Mrs. Floyd Howard as secretary-treasurer, Mrs.

Delbert Hunter as vice president and Mrs. Frank Poynter as president.

As a result of increasing conservation practices and turnabout of government employment practices, Mrs. Carl Shafer, Mrs. Jerry Young and Mrs. Warren Miller of the U.S. Soil Conservation service farm planners for Fulton County donated three days of their free time to set up a new filing system for their husbands.

Current Day

Continued from page 4 Continued on page 6

Thirty-seven of the 92 Indiana Soil & Water Conservation Districts are “one-person shows.” This means 37 counties have

one full-time employee to accomplish the five main roles which include:

• Educational outreach. This includes working with schools, 4-H and FFA to do educational activities, putting on youth and adult programs, field days and workshops and every year we do a river rafting program with the Arrow Head Country Resource Conservation & Development education committee.

• Technical support. Doing field work and visits for inspection of CRP and cover crop enrollment and (re-)establishment, sur-

Fulton County SWCD brief history

Continued from page 5

veying, Rule 5, storm water management, landfill inspections and water sampling.

• Administrative. Duties include organizing our annual and monthly meetings, field days, events and registration, applying and administrating grants, secretary duties, all the monthly responsibilities of keeping up with the books, insurance, payroll, min-

utes, policies, preparing state board of accounts and audits, maintaining office supply inventory and equipment, annual budget with county, business plan and annual plan of work.

• Partnerships. Working with and collaborating with Lake Association, Natural Resource Conservation Service, Farm Service Agency, Indiana State Department Ag,

Department of Natural Resources, Purdue Extension, Indiana Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts and Indiana District Employee Association to host programs, workshops and apply for grants.

• Communication. Maintaining social media, promoting tree and plant sales, marketing plat books and flags, advertising for equipment rental, writing and submitting press releases, public speaking, communicating at the county and state levels with schools, partners and the community.

One of the major accomplishments

Fulton County SWCD has achieved in the 2022 year is a full-time employee position through the county. It has taken over 25 years to achieve this.

Major Challenges

Some major challenges the SWCD’s encounter both from the past and now are:

• Stimulating general interest. We want the community involved and applying best management practices in their lives and on their land.

• Staffing. Yes, it is possible for one person to accomplish all five main roles, but they cannot do all five well. Having adequate employees to help with the responsibilities would allow us to focus on a specific role and do it well.

• Volunteers and partners. The more individuals we have supporting and standing behind us, the more we can accomplish. The more diverse we are, the greater knowledge we hold and the more hands we must help grow Fulton County’s conservation practices stronger. From cover crops, CRP and CREP programs, to pollinator habitats and bat houses. We can educate, learn and grow together to make our county healthy for ourselves and future generations.

Future Plans

Our hope is to be able to educate, learn and grow with each of you. Let’s host more workshops, increase conservational practices and create wildlife habitats. We need to hear from you.

What would you like to know about?

What plants, animals, birds and trees interest you?

What wildlife habitats would you like to create and conservation programs do you want to put into place?

Would you be interested in hosting a workshop at your farm?

Contact us and let us know. We are here to serve our community.

Minutes of the 82nd annual meeting of Fulton County SWCD

The 82nd annual meeting of the Fulton County Soil & Water Conservation District was held at 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 7, 2022, at the Geneva Center, north of Rochester. There were 106 attendees.

Mike Norman welcomed guests and Lois Mann introduced the SWCD supervisors. The meeting opened with recognition of county commissioners and county council. Sponsors of the banquet dinner were Beacon Credit Union, First National Bank of Monterey and Arrow Head Country RC&D Council.

First National Bank also sponsored the FFA Soil Judgers awards. Sponsor advertisers for the Resource Report for 2021 were Beacon Credit Union, Craig Welding, Enyart’s True Value, Farm Credit, Fulton County REMC, Fulton County Farm Bureau, Kate’s Tax Service, Mary’s Stitch & Knit, Matt Craig, Mike’s Trash, Odell Lumber, Rochester Homes, RTC, TAK Enterprises, Tom Bauters Tax Service and Winamac Coil Springs Inc.

The September field day was sponsored by New Holland-Rochester, Kevin Podell, Conservation Cropping Systems Initiative, Steve Kasten and Pence Group.

Mike gave the blessing and a banquet meal was served. Tim Eizinger gave a presentation about the natural heritage of Indiana, its kettle lakes and how they were formed.

The business meeting began with approval of the minutes of the 2021 an-

nual meeting (motion by Glen Jones, second by Dustin Zellers) and the Annual Financial Report (motion by Kyle Riffle, second by Ross Burdge).

Dustin introduced Art Gudas and Adam Luhnow as the two candidates for election and Mike Norman was introduced as the supervisor reappointed by the State Soil Conservation Board. With no nominations from the floor, the election was conducted by ballot and reported at the end of the meeting.

Associate Supervisor Glen Jones and Allen Chesser presented the Soils Judging awards to the top four individuals: fourth place, Hunter Shriver; third place, Peyton McTaggart; second place, Luke Wortley; and for the third consecutive year, first place went to Dryden Vance. In addition to the plaque, Vance received a $50 cash award from First National Bank. Shriver also received a $50 cash award from First National.

Glen explained some of the funding opportunities available to the SWCD and recognized ISDA Resource Specialist Chris Gardner for his work as CREP leader for the Tippecanoe River watershed.

Mike Norman gave some history about Joe Kroft, then presented the Joseph A. Kroft award to Matt Harsh.

Glen presented Ross Burdge with a years of service award for serving as an SWCD supervisor for over 19 years.

Ross Burdge announced that Katie Schouten worked on the 4-H soil and

water science project in 2021, earning grand champion at the county fair and receiving a red ribbon at the state fair. Schouten presented her project on soil health and displayed her poster.

Matt presented Glen and Chris Jones with a River Friendly Farmer sign to display on their farm. Glen was one of 47 farmers who received the RFF award at the state fair in 2021.

Brief agency reports were given by Jackie Apenhorst, program technician of the Farm Service Agency; Mark Kepler of Purdue Extension; and Andrea Baker, district conservationist of the Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Matt Harsh gave a rundown of some of the 2021 programs and accomplishments for the SWCD, including the September field day attended by 67 people, year two of the Clean Water Indiana

Grant, cost share projects for manure testing and cover crops, river rafting and academic competition, rental equipment and grants.

Glen Jones reported on the firstyear water quality monitoring project funded by the Lake and River Enhancement Program.

Dustin Zellers announced the results of the election. Adam Luhnow received the most votes and was declared the new elected supervisor. The oath of office was administered to Adam and Mike by Fulton County Commissioner Rick Ranstead.

Mike closed the meeting, thanking those in attendance and reminding everyone of the importance of taking care of our soils. The annual meeting ended at approximately 9 p.m.

Minutes submitted by Lois Mann.

Fulton County SWCD annual meeting

To all occupiers of lands lying within the boundaries of the Fulton County Soil and Water Conservation District, notice is hereby given that on the 6th day of February 2023, beginning at 6 p.m., an annual meeting will be held for the purpose of making a full and due report of their activities and financial affairs since the last annual meeting and to elect a supervisor for the Fulton County Soil and Water Conservation District of the State of Indiana.

In case of hazardous roads that severely

restrict travel, the meeting will be held on the 13th day of February 2023. The annual meeting will be held at The Geneva Center, 5282 N. Old US Hwy 31, Rochester. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. A banquet dinner will be served.

If you are planning on attending the evening meeting, please register at your earliest convenience so we can ensure enough food to accommodate everyone.

Please call the SWCD office at (574) 223-3220, ext. 3, for your reservation.

Fulton County farmer receives state River Friendly Farmer Award

The Indiana Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts honored local farmer Duane Riddle as a recipient of the 2022 River Friendly Farmer Award.

Nominated by the Fulton County Soil & Water Conservation District, Riddle is one of 48 Indiana farmers who received the statewide award during the Indiana State Fair.

The annual River Friendly Farmer Award ceremony recognizes farmers for their implementation of conservation practices, like no-till and cover crops, which ultimately protect waterways and improve water quality in Indiana. The farmers were nominated by their local soil and water conservation districts.

Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch addressed the recipients and their families at the event, recognizing them for their implementation of conservation practices, like no-till and cover crops. Randy Kron, president of Indiana Farm Bureau, offered thanks and appreciation to the farmers and landowners who go the extra mile in protecting Indiana’s natural resources.

Riddle has been a longstanding notill farmer, using cover crops and best management practices for his cattle in conjunction with the use of rotational grazing in his cattle pastures. These practices have prevented erosion of the soil and sediment throughout their farm ground.

Riddle was named Fulton County’s

River Friendly Farmer this year. He has worked the past 30 years on his farm using no-till and cover crop practices to help build soil nutrients, reduce erosion and sediment pollution.

Riddle said, “Two years ago, I used a 16-way cover crop mix after a wheat crop. … Two years later, I had the best bean yield I ever have had by over 10 bushels per acre.”

These practices have reduced sedimentation into the streams due to the lack of erosion, because there is zero erosion with wind or water. Although Riddle may have to spot spray for thistles, he uses no chemicals, insecticides or pesticides.

Riddle uses intensive half rotational grazing and feed lots. These best management practices have helped benefit his farm because he has been able to make more money. It also provides 100% cover and sequesters carbon.

He said, “All no-till for years and planting green works. I don’t know for the life of me why I would do anything different. I have been doing it right for 30 years.”

Sponsored by Indiana Farm Bureau, the River Friendly Farmer Award program began in 2000 and has honored over 1,100 Indiana farms.

For a complete list of this year’s winners, go to wordpress.iaswcd.org/riverfriendly-farmeraward.

A word from the supervisors

“Serving on the Fulton County SWCD Board has definitely been a positive experience. Learning new things is still fun even after 30 years on the board. We learn so much from each other locally and also from other county boards, field days, seminars and other conservationminded organizations we partner with.

“It is also very satisfying to employ new conservation ideas on my home farm and to see my soil health become better than it ever was before. Whenever the opportunity presents itself, I enjoy sharing my conservation story with other farmers who possibly need a little encouragement to adopt another conservation step.

“I especially enjoy volunteering for the RC&D River Rafting Education Program for

high school students at the Tippecanoe River State Park. The students learn about watersheds, forestry, river history, best management practices, aquatic river life, water testing, mussels and river otters — along with some “team building” along the way.

“Teaching about conservation while having fun at the same time is a win-win situation and a great investment in the future of conservation.” — Mike Norman

“I’ve been a supervisor on the SWCD and representing Fulton County on the RC&D for six years now. In that time, I have learned many things about conservation practices that I implement on our family farm. My favorite part are the amazing groups of people I meet

and how passionate they are at improving soil health and water quality.” — Dustin Zellers

“What I have liked most about being a SWCD supervisor is the ability to give farmers resources like the cover crop cost share program.

“This helps the farmer be able to try cover crops and see the advantages they may have on their farm so they can then decide whether to fully implement them on their farm. It helps relieve some of the financial pressure on the farmer if that’s the limiting factor holding them back from trying cover crops.” — Kyle Riffle

“I am farmer on the east side of Fulton County near Akron. I farm using conservation practices utilizing no-till and cover crops. I have

served on the Fulton County SWCD board since 2006. During this time on the board, I have enjoyed the relationships I have been able to establish with other people who have a similar interest in conservation farming.” — Matt Harsh

“Since coming on board with soil and water, it has really opened my eyes to all the SWCD is involved in. I enjoy listening to others on their different views of conservation and the wide array of practices they use. I think the SWCD has a real impact on farmers throughout the county and can continue to grow and help farmers for years to come.” — Adam Luhnow

If you are interested in becoming an associate supervisor, please contact us (574) 2233220, ext. 3.

• Initiate better cooperation and communication between city and county governments.

• Remove any division between parties and be solely focused on what we, together, can do to improve our community.

• Communicate using different venues on a regular basis to offer opportunities for the public voice to be heard.

• Allow those in leadership and in the general public to utilize their passion and gifts to help better our city.

• To set an example as it should be, that we as leaders are the public SERVANTS you elected us to be.