Shopping Guide News of Fulton County - February 15, 2023

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The down and dirty battle against

What do the Norway maple, garlic mustard, English ivy, wild parsnip and burning bush all have in common?

They are invasive species, nonnative plants harmful to the environment, the economy and, in some cases, human health.

The estimated damage in the U.S. from invasive species is $120 billion annually, and a 2012 survey completed by 116 Indiana landowners found they spent over $5.7 million in one year managing invasive species.

These facts and many more were part of a presentation made by Mandi Glanz, regional specialist for State of Indiana Cooperative Invasives Management, at the 83rd annual meeting/banquet of the Fulton County Soil and Water Conservation District Feb. 6 at the Geneva Center.

Not only did she enumerate the threats posed by these species, she also provided information on ways to identify and eradicate them, as well as efforts underway statewide and locally to create cooperative invasive species management areas, local working partnerships formed with the goal of managing these species across jurisdictional and landownership boundaries.

“One of our goals is to create CISMAs across all of Indiana in partnership with the Indiana Invasives Initiative,” said Glanz.

Cass and Fulton counties are in the process of creating a CISMA. A meeting will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 18, at the Logansport-Cass County Public Library. This will be followed by a meeting at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 12, at Kewanna-Union Township Public Library.

Fulton County SWCD Director

Megan Malott hopes to see “likeminded people” come together to spread awareness of the problem and “get more native plants in the ground.”

“Invasive plants are negatively affecting everyone. They’re negatively impacting our water quality, our soil health; they’re out-competing native plants; they’re decreasing biodiversity, decreasing wildlife habitat and decreasing wildlife food sources,” said Glanz.

According to the U.S. Forest Service, invasive species have contributed to the decline of 42% of U.S. endangered and threatened species; for 18% of these species. invasives are the main cause of their decline.

Fulton County is no exception.

The Carter blue butterfly, for example, is endangered due to the depletion of the Carter blue caterpillar’s sole food source, wild blue lupine, which is losing habitat to invasives.

Another example is the Carolina chickadee, which depends on native plants to provide insects for their diet. These birds’ broods require 6,000-9,000 caterpillars in a single season, roughly 400 caterpillars per day. A native white oak tree supports over 500 species of moth and butterfly caterpillars. Locally, oak trees are being choked out by Oriental bittersweet, known as the “kudzu of the north,” among other plants.

“Our invasive species are not supporting native moths and but-

terflies like our native trees and plants are, so it’s very important for us to have native plants in our yards and in our wild spaces,” stated Glanz.

She went on to emphasize the importance of being able to differentiate between invasive and non-invasive species, which can be tricky and requires some study. Also important is knowing how best to eradicate invasives: what pesticides or other techniques to use and when to use them. The cut stump herbicide method on an invasive tree, for example, should not be done in the spring because rising sap will push out the chemical.

Also, some trees, like the tree of

Continued on page 5

Valley FFA president prepares for the ‘real world’

Tippecanoe Valley High School

FFA President Lucas Parson will soon be graduating; however, like

many other FFA members, he will enter college — and then the “real world” — with a set of skills and experiences that increase his chances of future success.

Lucas is the son of Ryan and

Angie Parson, and he grew up in Akron where the family raises beef cows. “Dad was in FFA and he encouraged me to join,” Lucas recalled.

Right away, Parson enjoyed success as a member of the forestry team. “We won state three times in a row.” The team also competed in the national contest at the end of his sophomore year. Unfortunately, due to COVID, the competition took place online.

In forestry, Parson learned how to identify trees in several ways, including through the leaves, seeds and cuts of wood. He is particularly fond of black walnut as there are “quite a few” growing at his home and because it is a “sought after wood,” especially by furniture makers.

Parson credited advisor and agriculture teacher Mike Jones with much of the team’s success. “Jones knows what he is talking about.” Parson is also a member of the poultry and dairy judging teams.

He decided to run for FFA president after seeing the posted sign-up sheets. “I figured, ‘why not?’” He modestly described his presidential responsibilities as “overseeing meetings” and “doing a little talking at banquets.” However, even these tasks are invaluable in developing leadership skills, particularly when added to activities like the district leadership competition demonstrations, which Parson was preparing for at the time of this writing.

Maintaining a regular schedule, leading meetings, public

speaking — through these and other activities, FFA gives members the “ability to do it now, to practice for the real world. … It teaches kids responsibility,” said Parsons. He added that FFA can also provide a supportive “home away from home,” and can be beneficial for kids who may not have stable family situations.

For his supervised agricultural experience, Parson has been working in a family construction business. He has picked up additional skills as a mechanic from his father who works on semis. He is also looking forward to driving his tractor to school during FFA week.

In addition to FFA, Parson is a 10-year 4-H member and has shown beef cows and pigs. One 4-H highlight was winning a showmanship award at the Fulton County Fair for showing pigs. A showmanship award reflects skill, not only in the interactions with the animal, but with the judges as well, and requires situational awareness about several things at once, such as making sure you don’t get between the animal and the judges.

Speaking of situational awareness, Parson was also a starting center on the Valley football team and won the Three River Conference championship two years in a row.

To call Parson “well-rounded” would be an understatement.

Busy Bells gear up for

sale

The Busy Bells Extension Homemaker Club is getting ready for its annual garage sale.

The sale will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 11, at the Fulton County Fairgrounds.

If you’re interested in selling items, you can reserve an 8-footby-5-foot space for $10; additional spaces cost $5. The cost includes a table to use, or you can bring your own. Setup on sale day starts at 8 a.m.

To reserve a space or for more information, call Pam at (574) 453-6613.

Let’s study the Bible

The chief shepherd (Read: Psalm 24:1-10)

“Who is this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah.” (Psalm 24:10)

Psalm 24 was probably sung by different choirs and soloists as King David entered Jerusalem (1 Chronicles 13-15) and a singer would ask, “Who is this king of glory?” Then the entire group would shout, “The Lord of hosts! He is the king of glory!” What a magnificent spectacle it must have been!

But an even greater wonder awaits Jerusalem when the chief shepherd, the Lord Jesus Christ, appears to claim David’s throne. This psalm describes the return of the King to Zion (see Revelation 19:11-16). This present earth is under the sway of sin and Satan.

Though it is the Lord’s by creation and redemption, it has not yet been delivered from bondage. But thank God, one day Jesus will return to the earth to claim his inheritance. Then the earth will be filled with the glory of the Lord.

The question in Psalm 24:3 is important: Who is worthy to rule over the earth from Mount Zion? It reminds us of Revelation 5 when the question is asked, “Who is worthy to open the book and break the seals?”

There can be only one answer: The Lord Jesus Christ the Son of God.

Psalm 24:4 describes him as the perfect man, the perfect king.

David did not have clean hands, for he murdered a man; nor did he have a pure heart, for he lusted and committed adultery. He lifted up his soul to vanity and pride when he numbered the people. Solomon could not qualify, for he was an idolater. Even great King Hezekiah fell because of pride. No, the only king who can qualify is the Lord Jesus Christ.

When Jesus Christ claims Jerusalem, he will come as one fresh from the battle (v. 8), for he will have defeated the nations of the world at Armageddon (Revelation

19:19-21).

Before Jesus was born, it was promised he would sit on David’s throne (Luke 1:30-33). Today he is seated on his father’s throne (Revelation 3:21), but when he returns to this earth in judgment and glory, he will claim David’s throne and reign over the house of Jacob.

Of course, Christ will first return in the air to take the church to heaven (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). Then will follow seven years of awful tribulation on the earth, “the time of Jacob’s trouble.” When Satan and his evil associates have done their worst, the Lord Jesus Christ will return to judge and to deliver the world from evil. Then there will be a renewed earth, a restored Israel, and a righteous kingdom for a thousand years (Revelation 20:1-5).

If the Lord Jesus Christ is your good shepherd because you have received him as Savior, then let him be your great shepherd to guide and bless your life. Then when he returns as the chief shepherd, you will be ready to meet him. Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines for free at rcpbibleoutlines. com. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.

Caston School Corporation receives Comprehensive School Counseling Grant

In conjunction with School Counseling Week, the Indiana Department of Education recently announced recipients of $5 million in funding, which will support 26 school districts, charter schools and community partners, including Caston School Corporation of Fulton County.

This funding will further develop and expand school counseling services and resources that improve student achievement, well-being and college and career readiness.

Successful applications specified how grant funding would improve counselor-to-student ratios and establish or further strengthen partnerships with community organizations and employers.

“School counselors are uniquely positioned to provide students with a number of important services, including guidance in completing all necessary courses and other graduation requirements, encouraging exploration of career and postsecondary opportunities and overall well-being support,” said Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education.

“The recipients of this grant un-

Moving to every other week

The Good Neighbors column will now be published every other week.

The next column will be published Feb. 22 and alternating weeks thereafter.

Readers are encouraged to continue mailing, faxing or emailing their friendly advice and ask or answer questions.

To mail questions, send to Good Neighbors, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542; fax (800) 886-3796; or email abias@the-papers.com. Please, no phone calls.

derstand the importance of comprehensive school counseling and the range of support our students need to reach their full potential. With this additional funding, they will be better equipped to support the needs of their community and ultimately move the needle for their students.”

To further support student achievement, well-being and college and career readiness, IDOE identified three key goals when establishing the Comprehensive School Counseling Grant:

• Expand the number of Indiana schools providing a comprehensive school counseling program.

• Explicitly define the role of a school counselor in improving student outcomes as it pertains to the five student characteristics of Indiana Graduates Prepared to Succeed.

• Create a network of progress monitoring to assess effectiveness and identify areas in need of additional local support and guidance.

Funding for the Comprehensive School Counseling Grant is allocated as part of the state’s federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief plan. Through this grant, more than 117,000 students across 17 Indiana counties will be supported.

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Carla G. Dutchess

Retired School Teacher

Carla G. Dutchess, 97, North Manchester, formerly of Rochester, passed away at 12:20 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6, 2023, at Peabody Retirement Community, North Manchester.

She was born Aug. 16, 1925, in Kosciusko County, the daughter of Homer A. and Ercie (Oplinger) Lucas. She graduated from Claypool High School in 1943, from Manchester College with a bachelors degree in 1947 and received her master’s degree from Indiana University in 1958. On July 23, 1966, in Rochester, she married Lloyd A. Dutchess. He preceded her in death May 30, 1994.

Mrs. Dutchess taught business and English for over 40 years in high schools in Monroe, Twelve Mile, Paris, France (U.S. Dependents School), Rochester and Oak Hill High School in Converse. She was a member of Community Presbyterian Church, Rochester, Delta Kappa Gamma Society, Delta Pi Epsilon and the Indiana Retired Teachers Association. In her leisure time, she enjoyed reading and traveling.

Survivors include her nieces and nephews, Chris Johnson, Curtis Harms, Laura Tomlin and David Devore; eight great-nieces and nephews; and eight great-great-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Hannah C. (Lucas) Rutenberg; brother-in-law, Arthur Rutenberg; and niece, Kathleen Soupley.

Funeral services were conducted at 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 12, at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester. Friends called one hour prior to the service Sunday at the funeral home. Burial was in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rochester.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh. com.

Dena F. Lawrence

Retired From Hart, Schaffner And Marx

Dena F. Lawrence, 76, Akron, passed away at 6:22 a.m. Monday, Feb. 6, 2023, at her residence.

She was born Nov. 23, 1946, in Indianapolis, the daughter of James Robert and Edith Opal (Petty) Verhines. She married Bishop Robert Ritter Sr. in 1969. They later divorced. On Sept. 6, 2003, in Rochester, she married Jimmy S. Lawrence. He preceded her in death.

Dena worked at Hart, Schaffner and Marx for over 20 years until her retirement. She graduated from Ivy Tech Community College with a degree in business. She belonged to the Pentecostal Church, having attended Sanctuary of Praise and New Beginnings Glorious Church, where she loved playing the piano.

She enjoyed sewing, making costumes for her grandchildren on Halloween, singing and playing the organ. Dena also enjoyed dancing with the Rochester square dancers and was known for her excellent tasting Hershey’s fudge. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family, listening to gospel music and harmonizing with her daughter.

Survivors include her daughter, Elizabeth “Liz” (Les) Bannister, Akron; sons, Timothy Ritter, Rochester, and Robert (Stephanie Chilcutt) Ritter Jr.; grandchildren, Destiny (Dillion) Parker, Middletown, Autumn Parker, Akron, Trenton Ritter, Rochester, David Robert Ritter, Rochester, and Melissa Kline, Culver; great-grandchildren, Carter Parker, Middletown, Kylie Parker, Middletown, Amara Kline, Culver, and Elena Kline, Culver; sisters, Rita Burleson, Greenwood, Leah Denise Smith, Indianapolis, and Beverly Jean (Robert) Baker M.D., Orlando, Fla.; and sister-in-law, Geneva Verhines, Indianapolis.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Teresa Parker; and brother, James Linus Verhines.

Funeral services were conducted at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11, at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester. Friends visited from 5-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10, and one hour prior to service Saturday at the funeral home. Burial was in Tippecanoe Cemetery, Tippecanoe.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Dena Lawrence Memorial Fund through the funeral home.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh. com.

Phyllis J. Barrett

Former Rochester Metals Employee

Phyllis J. Barrett, 88, Rochester, passed away at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023, at Life Care Center of Rochester.

She was born Feb. 20, 1934, in Mississippi, the daughter of William P. and Dorothy (Shaw) Smith. On Nov. 27, 1958, in Little Rock, Ark., she married Leonard Earl “Honey” Barrett. He preceded her in death on July 23, 1993.

Mrs. Barrett had worked for Rochester Metals and had been a motor route carrier for the Rochester Sentinel for numerous years. She enjoyed crocheting and bingo.

Survivors include her daughter, Sue Schaeffner, Rochester; nine grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and seven greatgreat-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sons, Charles Richardson and Gary Richardson; daughters, Gail See, Annette White and Kathryn Mounts; grandson, Joseph Mounts Jr.; and sisters, Laura Williams and Patricia A. Rhoades Jylland. Private interment will take place at Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rochester.

Arrangements by Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester. Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh. com.

John J. Jewell

John J. Jewell, 68, Akron, died Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023, at his residence. He was born Aug. 22, 1954.

On Aug. 25, 1979, he married Rhonda Yazel, who survives.

He also is survived by his children, Rory (Alisan) Jewell, Fort Wayne, and Chaitra (Ryan) Adams, Akron; five grandchildren, and one on the way; siblings, Phyllis (Stephen) Bendzunas, Bluffton, S.C., and George (Kerry) Jewell, South Bend; brotherin-law, Mike (June) Yazel, Mentone; sister-in-law, Teresa (Jim) Jones, Brookston; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by sons, Justin and Cody Jewell; parents, Lee George and Sarah Margaret Ogden Jewell; and mother- and father-in-law, Harold and Ellanora Yazel.

A memorial service is being planned at King Memorial Home, 101 N. Tucker St., Mentone.

A private family interment will take place at Mentone Cemetery, Mentone.

Memorial contributions can be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, P.O. Box 91891, Washington, DC 20090-1891, or to Gentiva Hospice.

Share a memory or send an online condolence at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.

Bonnie C. Koenig Carroll

Bonnie C. Koenig Carroll, 80, Peru, formerly of Indianapolis, died Thursday, Jan. 12, 2023.

She was born Sept. 13, 1942. On Aug. 4, 1967, she married Walter A. Carroll, who preceded her in death in 2002.

She is survived by her children, Alex Carroll, Connersville, Coleen (Steve) Leonard, Indianapolis, and Jackie (Alan) Dowd, Fishers; and siblings, Larry (Caren) Koenig, North Manchester, Jack (Linda) Koenig, Denver, Ind., Carol Koenig, Peru, Dan (Fran) Koenig, Palatka, Fla., Kathy Hunt, Rochester, and Bruce (Jackie) Koenig, Peru.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Jennie Mills Koenig; sister and brother-in-law, Dorothy and Ron Martin; brother-in-law, Matt Hunt; a nephew; and her companion, Steve Lewis.

A luncheon and time of sharing will take place from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, at Akron Carnegie Public Library, 205 E. Rochester St., Akron.

Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron, handled arrangements.

Share a memory or online condolence at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.

Sandy Monnier

Sandy

Monnier, 59, Rochester , died Thursday, Feb. 9, 2023, at Woodlawn Hospital, Rochester.

She was born April 6, 1963. On April 21, 1990, she married Dennis A. Monnier, who survives. She also is survived by her children, Ashlee Lynn Heiman, Hermitage, Tenn., and Robert Ryan (Stacy) Heiman, Fulton; a grandson; mother, Nancy (Jim) Manzuk, Plymouth; siblings, Cindy (Joe) Conley, Rochester, Karen “Lynn” Aguon, Tippecanoe, Jeremy (Monica) Smith, Greenwood, John (Cheyenne) Guess, Argos; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, Cecil A. Guess.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Good Family Funeral Home, Rochester, is handling arrangements.

Ines Cuartas Miller

Ines Cuartas Miller, 88, Fort Lauderdale, Fla., died Friday, Feb. 10, 2023.

She was born June 27, 1934. On May 31, 1967, she married Ronald V. Miller Sr., who survives.

She also is survived by her son, Ronald V. Miller Jr.; three grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Julio Cuartas Duque and Maria Luisa Rubio Vasquez, and 10 siblings.

Funeral arrangements are being conducted by Rans Funeral Home, Metzger Chapel, Kewanna, with final resting place at IOOF Citizens Cemetery.

Group wants to gauge interest in ‘The Chosen’

A local church group is trying to gauge interest in whether people would like to attend free viewings and discussions of “The Chosen,” a recent multimedia film series about Jesus and those he influenced.

A group at the Rochester Church of Christ, 120 E. Fifth St., is interested in viewing episodes of the series in the church annex and holding a discussion time afterward. Questions that could be explored during discussion might include:

• “Does it follow the Bible?”

• “Is it an accurate depiction of what might have taken place?”

• “Does it help you to see Jesus in a more realistic way?”

• “How were you affected?”

• “What are its weaknesses?”

The viewing and discussion

Continued on page 5

Darrell L. Herschberger • 9783 E. 350 S. • Akron, IN 46910

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Gene R. Reinholt

Gene Richard Reinholt, 90, Kewanna, died Friday, Feb. 10, 2023, at Woodbridge Health Campus, Logansport.

He was born Dec. 19, 1932.

He is survived by his wife, Georgia

“Joan” Collins Reinholt; stepdaughters, Vickie Foudray, Winchester, Lisa Reidy, Lithia, Fla., and Kim (Garry) Foerg, Winamac; stepson, Eric (Carol) Colvin, Kewanna; sisters, Wilma Lytle, Logansport, and Ruth Ann (Keith) Holcomb, Griffith; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Lottie Hoover Reinholt; five sisters; three brothers; two sons-in-law; and one granddaughter.

A private family service with full military rites will be held at a later date.

Rans Funeral Homes, Kewanna, is handling arrangements.

Condolences can be shared with the family at ransfuneralhomes.com.

Robert E. Shoemaker

Robert E. Shoemaker, 93, Decatur, died Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023, at Bickford of Wabash Assisted Living.

He was born Nov. 29, 1929. On May 28, 1966, he married Alice E. Roth, who preceded him in death in 2019.

He is survived by a brother, Jerry (Diana) Shoemaker, Akron; sister, Kathleen Racer, Rochester; several nieces and nephews; and good friend, Cathy Plasterer.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, Russell C. and Nancy M. Bowen Shoemaker; brother, Jack Shoemaker; and sister, Beulah Conner.

A funeral service was held Saturday, Feb. 11, at HaggardHirschy & Zelt Funeral Home, Decatur. Burial followed at MRE Cemetery, Berne. Graveside military rites were conducted by the American Legion Post 43 Color Guard.

Memorials may be given to Zion United Church of Christ or the Lions Club.

To sign an online guestbook, visit hshfuneralhome.com.

Grace College inducts local students into Alpha Chi Honor Society

Grace College inducted 26 juniors and seniors into the Alpha Chi Honor Society Saturday, Feb. 4. Honorees included two students from Fulton County.

Newly inducted members include Carlee Blackburn, an elementary education major from Rochester; and Mya Musselman, an elementary education major from Rochester.

These high-achieving students have earned the top 10% of GPAs across all disciplines at Grace. Every year Alpha Chi inducts nearly 11,000 students from across the country.

Established in 1922, the national honor society celebrates more than 100 years of rich history marked by scholarship and service. Grace College is home to one of 300 chapters that span nearly every state in the nation.

“As faculty, we look forward to this event every year, as these are

Group wants

Continued from page 4

might last about 90 minutes. Sessions possibly could be held on Saturday evenings, but no days or times have been decided, pending

Court News Circuit Court

The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Circuit Court, Judge Arthur Christopher Lee presiding: Foreclosure

First Federal Savings Bank v. Amanda DeSonia, Rochester, and Daniel DeSonia II, Rochester, $32,782.71.

Superior Court

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

Teachers Credit Union v. Cassie L. Musselman, Rochester, and Marvin L. Shortz, Rochester, $6,536.55.

Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC v. Julia Losch, Rochester, $1,127.34.

American Express National Bank v. Brandon Parker, Rochester, $10,468.68.

Citibank NA v. Bryce Velez, Rochester, $7,432.52.

CKS Prime Investments LLC v. Jonathan Steinert, Rochester, $1,138.35.

Traffic Violations

The following fines and levies were assessed in Fulton County courts: Speeding — Lana S. Fearnow, Wabash, $150.50; Julie Dingillo, Winamac, $150.50; Julie A. Blakeslee, South Bend, $150.50; Sandra J. Johnson, St. Louis, $171; Fabrice Kanyamfura, Grand Rapids, Mich., $171. Driving while suspended — Alia N. Ertimi, Fishers, $160.50.

Marriage Licenses

The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of the Fulton County clerk: Franklin-Gordon Damion Cole Franklin, 28, Rochester, and Bernadine Gordon, 60, Rochester.

Mitchell-Blocher

Johnathan Tyler Mitchell, 24, Kewanna, and Samantha Marie Blocher, 22, Kewanna.

Zimmerman-Brubacker

Ian Kilmer Zimmerman, 20, Claypool, and Susan Hoover Brubacker, 22, Rochester.

Woods-Chumley

Damon D. Woods, 21, Rochester, and Whitney L. Chumley, 20, Rochester.

Marriage Dissolutions

The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in Fulton County courts: Easterday — Robert L. Easterday, Rochester, and Ruth A. Easterday, Middlebury. With children. Frounfelter — Ashley Frounfelter, no address given, and William Frounfelter, no address given. With children.

students who have really distinguished themselves in academics throughout their time at Grace,” said Dr. Lauren Rich, Alpha Chi faculty sponsor and chair of the department of humanities. “Membership in Alpha Chi is an honor signifying students’ hard work, dedication to learning and strong character.”

At this year’s induction ceremony, Grace College President Dr. Drew Flamm gave the benediction. Following his speech, he was surprised by the bestowal of an honorary Alpha Chi membership.

Grace College Provost Dr. Kevin Roberts gave the keynote address after inductees were introduced by a faculty member from their major and presented with a certificate and pin.

The Grace College Alpha Chi chapter is sponsored by the Office of Faith, Learning & Scholarship.

how much interest is shown. Anyone who might be interested in attending the viewings and discussions is asked to contact Jay Wilson at (574) 933-2421.

The down and

Continued from page 1

heaven, can be propagated by cutting, producing countless resprouts. Glanz illustrated this with a slide of one such tree at Nickel Plate Trail, which had been cut during a storm. Unfortunately, many invasive species are sold at local nurseries. Fountain grass and burning bush are very popular plants often pur-

posely planted; however, they are aggressive and difficult to manage. “They are still being sold, which is making the problem worse in our areas.”

For more information, contact Fulton County SWCD at (574) 2233220, ext. 3, sicim.info/cismas or in.gov/dnr/rules-and-regula tions/ invasive-species.

VIOLATION OF PROBATION/ POSS. OF METH. X 2

TRAVIS W. BLANKENSHIP

AGE: 39

HEIGHT: 6’2”

WEIGHT: 225 LBS.

SEX: M

HAIR: BLACK

EYES: GREEN

FTA/POSS. OF METH

ROBIN L. PRINCE

AGE: 38

HEIGHT: 5’7”

WEIGHT: 200 LBS.

SEX: F

HAIR: BLACK

EYES: BROWN

Updates and happenings in and around the area

Corinth Church will be serving breakfast from 7-10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, at the Twelve Mile Community Building. On the menu will be biscuits and gravy, pancakes, fried mush and more. Freewill donations will be accepted, and the money will go toward the church’s charitable work. Twelve Mile Community Building is located at 8030 E. SR 16, Twelve Mile.

—o—

The second installment of the 2023 Legislative Breakfast Series will be held Saturday morning, Feb. 18, at the Fulton County Public Library, 320 W. Seventh St., Rochester. Featured public officials will be members of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners and the mayor of Rochester.

Social networking starts at 7:30 a.m., followed by presentations at 8 a.m., a Q&A period at 9 a.m. and adjournment at 9:30 a.m.

The Legislative Breakfast Series is presented by the Fulton County Chamber of Commerce and Fulton County Farm Bureau. The third and final breakfast in the series will be Saturday, March 11, at the Akron Commu-

nity Center, featuring state Rep. Jack Jordan.

—o—

An “Art Reveal and Mystery Party” in honor of founder and artist Diane Tesler will be held for the public from 4-6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, at The HeARTery, 414 E. Main St., Kewanna. Light refreshments will be served.

A freewill donation will be welcomed to support The HeARTery, a nonprofit center for art, drama, music and civic events. The center is excited to again be open for events that “nourish the heart and mind.”

—o—

The Duct Tape Prom will be held from 6-8:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25, at the Outlet Youth Center, 491 Apache Drive, Rochester.

Youth in grades five through 12 are welcome to attend the free event, which will feature a deejay, refreshments, fellowship, prizes and a photo booth. All kids need to do is find an old outfit and spruce it up with any kind of duct tape in any kind of pattern. A king and queen will be chosen based on the best outfits.

—o—

The Kewanna Union Township Public Library will start a month-

Dylan Wood named to president’s list at The Citadel

Dylan Wood of Akron is among the more than 90 cadets recognized for their outstanding work during the fall 2022 semester. The president’s list is one of the most distinguished cadet awards presented by The Citadel.

The list is a combination of the dean’s list and the commandant’s distinguished list and is composed of cadets who contribute the most to their companies while maintaining excellent military and academic records.

RSVP (RETIRED & SENIOR VOLUNTEER PROGRAM) OF FULTON CO. IS PLANNING 4 UPCOMING TRIPS!!

Charleston, SC/Savannah, GA

April 30 - May 5, 2023

The cost is $990/person (based on double occupancy) and includes all transportation and lodging, 8 meals including lunch at Paula Deen’s Lady & Sons Restaurant, guided tours of Savannah and Charleston, tour of Ft. Sumter, carriage ride in Savannah, visits to River Street District and Charleston City Market, Magnolia Plantation Home & Nature Tram tour, Charleston Harbor Cruise, and a souvenir gift.

The Best of Italy

August 23 - September 2, 2023

This Trip To Italy Has So Much To Offer!

The agenda includes visits to Rome, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Square & Basilica, Colosseum, Montecatini, dinner at a traditional Tuscan farmhouse, Florence, Michelangelo’s statue of David, boat ride at Venice Island, glassblowing demonstration, Leaning Tower of Pisa, scenic drive through Apennine Mountains, Assisi, Pompeii, Naples, Capri, and Sorrento. Free time for shopping and dining too! Cost = $3340 based on double occupancy.

Red Rocks Train Trip

From The Rockies To The Red Rocks

September 25 - October 2, 2023

Trip highlights include 13 meals, all airport transfers, guided tour of Denver, Rocky Mountaineer train ride with glass-dome windows from Denver to Las Vegas, seeing/touring Arches National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Zion National Park, plus 2 nights in Las Vegas. Cost is $4795/person

Castles of New York

October 16-20, 2023

The cost is $925/person (based on double occupancy) and includes all lodging and transportation, 8 meals, visits to Boldt Castle, Singer Castle, Wing’s Castle, a stop at Millbrook Vineyards and Winery including wine tasting, a cruise on the St. Lawrence River, a guided tour of the New York State Capital building, and a souvenir gift.

Branson, MO - December 4-7, 2023 - Details To Come

For information on any of these trips, contact RSVP Director Anne King at 574-223-3716

ly youth program at 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 23, called “Catch” Kids Club. “Catch” stands for Coordinated Approach to Child Health.

Fulton County Purdue Extension educator Lori Stiffler will be presenting a program that teaches healthy habits and nutrition. She plans to share fun ways to learn about healthy eating and the importance of physical activity.

The library is located at 210 E. Main St., Kewanna. For more information, call (574) 653-2011.

—o—

First Baptist Church, 1000 Main St., Rochester, is offering a free kids club for preschool- and elementary-aged children. The club is running from 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays through March 8. A light meal is provided at 5:30 p.m. For more information, call the church at (574) 223-3613.

—o—

Laura Jones, Indiana State Library Northwest regional coordinator, will deliver a presentation titled “Stay Warm With These Hot Titles” at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21, at Akron Carnegie Public Library, 205 E. Rochester St., Akron. Jones will cover a variety of genres during her talk. Call (574) 893-4113 to sign up for a spot.

—o—

The Fulton County Choral Club will participate in a Rochester Dairy Queen Sponsor Night from 4-9 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21.

LEGACY

LCA offers traditional classroom instruction for students in grades K4-12th.

Wondering if Legacy may be a good fit for your family? Contact us to schedule a visit or attend our Open House February 16th from 4:30-7 p.m.

Legacy Christian Academy 5288 N. Old US Hwy. 31 Rochester, IN 46975 Tel: 574-835-4961 www.legacy-christian.org

CHRISTIAN ACADEMY is dedicated to excellence in education through a biblical worldview.

North Miami FFA continues its winning tradition

National FFA Week, Feb. 18-25, finds North Miami Middle/High School FFA as busy as ever.

The 58-member chapter recently held its fish fry fundraiser, an event preceded by three soil judging teams qualifying for the national competition in Oklahoma City this spring.

Soil judging has long been a strength at North Miami, thanks to the tandem of advisor Jim Wildermuth and coach Glen Jones.

According to chapter President Gabby Francis, the process starts in 9th grade.

“When we’re freshmen, Mr. Wildermuth teaches a unit on soils and encourages us to do soil judging,” she explained. Then Jones takes over as soil judging coach. “Soils is our most successful and most popular activity.”

However, Francis went on to tout North Miami’s dairy and poultry teams as well. The dairy team placed in the top four in the nation in the 2021-22 season and even traveled to Europe over the summer, while the poultry team has had success at the state level.

The chapter will kick off FFA week with a ski trip to Michigan on Presidents Day. Other events during the week include an adventure day when animals will be brought to school and a milk chug in the cafeteria for any students who wish to compete. There will also be an adventure day, when members plan to bring a dairy calf to school.

The chapter is serious about their truck and tractor drivein; so serious, in fact, that they are waiting until National Ag Day, March 22. “The guys want to bring in lots of tractors,” said Francis. This includes older models, which don’t start as well in cold weather.

Another Ag Day event involves presentations for local fourth graders. In the past, members taught how to properly crack an egg and showed off a dairy calf, while serving milk and Oreos.

Also coming in March is the FFA banquet, which includes the labor auction, one of the largest fundraisers of the year. On Mother’s Day, the chapter will have a flower sale, which will feature vegetables, annuals, perennials, succulents and “lots of petunias.”

Along with President Francis, this year’s North Miami FFA officers are: Alison Smith, treasurer; Hannah Miller, secretary; Kacie Deardorff, reporter; Austin Knauff, sentinel; Owen Knight, vice-president; and Tyler Kling, sentinel.

Smith said she is grateful to FFA for the “close friends” she has met, as well as the public speaking skills she has picked up. “Everyone should try it,” she said. “You learn a lot about life in general, even if you don’t come from an agricultural background.”

“I’m really proud of this year’s group,” said Wildermuth. “They are hard-working kids.” He also noted their goal-setting skills. “They have a drive to succeed and realize they have to put in the work to reach those goals.”

“We’ve always had great support from the community and administration,” he added.

For more information on North Miami FFA, visit facebook.com/NMFFA.

Tractor drive-in, ski trip highlight Rochester FFA Week

Fifteen or so farm tractors chugging down Main Street with a police escort is the kind of scene that draws attention, and the Rochester High School FFA Chapter uses the sight to draw attention to an important event in their school year: National FFA Week.

The week runs from Feb. 18-25. On Wednesday, Feb. 22, several Rochester FFA students will be participating in the annual tradition of driving tractors to school.

This year, they’ll meet up early at Rochester Meat & Deli for breakfast, then head for school at 7:30 a.m. They will then parade the tractors past the front windows of the school to start the school day while an announcer shares information about the tractors and FFA students over the public address system.

“That’ll be fun,” said Kyler Lowe, an 18-year-old senior who serves as president of the Rochester High School FFA Chapter. “It’s a good way to promote FFA.”

And that’s what FFA Week is all about: putting the spotlight on a national organization that helps youth at public school chapters to develop leadership skills through agricultural education and competitions.

FFA was established in 1928 as Future Farmers of America. It later adopted FFA as its official name to signal it’s open to anyone, whether their future might be in farming, an industry

Continued on page 12

Tractor drive-in, hog roast cap Caston FFA Week

From a petting zoo, skating party and appreciation breakfast to a tractor drive-in, cornhole tournament and huge hog roast, FFA Week at Caston High School is packed full of activities meant to highlight the value and fun of membership in the national youth organization.

Student organizers put their all into planning and hosting the events, dedicating many early mornings and late evenings to the effort and staying on the run throughout the week.

“At the end of the week,” said 17-year-old senior Mackenzi Roudebush, president of the Caston FFA chapter, “I go home and crash.”

The school week starts Monday, Feb. 20, with a day off for Presidents Day and a skating party at Logansport Skate World & Fun Center. The Caston group invites other area FFA chapters from Pioneer, Lewis Cass, Rochester and Logansport to join in the fun.

A petting zoo is the featured event Tuesday, drawing in children from across the school and even some community members to touch a piglet, chicken or lamb.

Teachers and staff are honored with an appreciation breakfast on Wednesday. A new event has been added that day — a workshop titled “What is FFA?” — to explain to youngsters what the group offers.

Thursday sees the annual chapter luncheon and cornhole tournament.

Friday caps the week, starting with a tractor drivein when between 20 and 30 FFA students actually drive farm tractors to school. “Pulling into the school, seeing your friends and comparing tractors,” noted FFA member Pete DuVall, a junior, “is such an experience.”

Friday culminates with the always popular hog roast. This year, the FFA will be roasting five donated hogs and serving up hundreds of meals at the school and for carryout, for a freewill donation.

The entire school seems to look forward to that hog roast and FFA Week in general, said Kinzie Mollenkopf, a 17-year-old senior who serves as FFA student advisor.

Each day of the week also features a themed dress-up day, such as “Country vs. City,” “Adam Sandler” and “Pajama Day.” On Friday, high school chapter members wear their official FFA attire, which includes a dark blue zippered jacket, collared white shirt, FFA tie or scarf, black skirt or trousers and black dress shoes. Junior high members wear their chapter T-shirts, and non-FFA members wear official FFA colors of blue and corn gold.

FFA is a national organization established in 1928 as Future Farmers of America. It later adopted FFA as its of-

ficial name to welcome anyone who might find value in the leadership skills the group promotes through agricultural education and competition. Public school FFA chapters like Caston’s are the heart of the national organization. FFA Week is the highlight of each local chapter’s school year.

On a scale of one to 10, with 10 being very important, how would students rate the importance of FFA Week? Mollenkopf doesn’t hesitate. “It’s a 10,” she said. “Maybe an 11.”

Tippecanoe Valley High School FFA reaches 70 members

National FFA Week, Feb. 18-25, is always a time to celebrate at Tippecanoe Valley High School. This year’s celebrations may be a little more festive, however, due to a spike in membership after 20 8th graders were welcomed into the chapter, bringing their total to roughly 70.

Another welcome addition has been agriculture teacher Hope Slagle, now in her second year, who commented on the strong foundation being set with the younger members. “They’re going to be experts by the time they get to be juniors and seniors,” she said.

Slagle’s counterpart, Mike Jones, has 23 years of FFA experience, starting at Argos High School. For seven years he has advised Tippy Valley FFA.

“I don’t do a lot of coaching,” said Jones. “Older kids teach younger members about contests and projects. … Freshmen build relationships with seniors who take them under their wing.”

Treasurer Issiac Ramsey, a junior, emphasized the leadership skills this interaction imparts. “Even as a

freshman, being around the older kids teaches you how to be a better leader.”

While Ramsey, President Lucas Parson and Vice President Grant Nelson all come from agricultural backgrounds, they agree this leadership component of FFA can also be beneficial for those without such an upbringing.

“It teaches kids responsibility,” said Parson. Having to regularly attend meetings and taking part in chapter activities, he said, helps cultivate skills they will use later in life. “It gives them the ability to do it now, to practice for the real world.” In fact, members are also preparing now for the district leadership contest at Triton High School, which begins in March.

That said, the agriculture element remains strong at TVHS FFA, particularly soils, forestry and livestock judging, in which the chapter has been “very successful in the past,” said Nelson.

According to Parson, who has been a part of three state-winning forestry teams and went to the national contest his sophomore year, Jones deserves some credit for this success in spite of his modesty. “Mr. Jones knows what he is talking about,” he said.

Parsons and the other chapter members are looking forward to FFA week activities, particularly — in Parson’s case — the tractor drive-in on Friday, followed by the FFA breakfast.

FFA week for the TVHS chapter starts on Sunday, Feb. 19, with a visit to Beaver Dam United Methodist Church, followed by a trip to Fort Wayne for an afternoon of laser tag. Members are also planning a pool party on either Monday or Thursday.

On Tuesday, members will visit area elementary schools to make agriculture presentations to second graders.

Wednesday is the FFA community supper and worker auction, one of the chapter’s primary fundraisers for the year along with the fish fry at homecoming and the flower sale, during which FFAers sold 1,000 mums.

At some point during the week, the chapter will also raise money for Helping Hands Food Pantry through the “Kiss a Critter” event when a teacher has to kiss a cow or sheep.

For more information on TVHS FFA activities visit facebook.com/profile.php?id=100054565325608

How to treat ringing in your ears

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 (earwax removal). This is the second of a twopart series on tinnitus.

The good news for people with tinnitus and hearing loss is that treatment options are available.

If a person’s tinnitus is caused

by hearing loss, treating the hearing loss can lead to a reduction in tinnitus symptoms. This can be done through the use of hearing aids, which amplify sound and make it easier for the ear to hear. In some cases, a hearing care practitioner may recommend a cochlear implant, a small electronic device surgically implanted into the ear to help improve hearing.

Another approach is tinnitus masking therapy, which can help people with tinnitus learn to manage their symptoms. Tinnitus masking therapy is a treatment that involves the use of external sounds to mask or cover up the phantom

noises associated with tinnitus.

The goal of tinnitus masking therapy is to reduce the perceived loudness of tinnitus and make it less noticeable. This can be done through the use of various sound therapy devices, such as white noise machines, tinnitus maskers and hearing aids with tinnitus masking features.

White noise machines produce a constant, neutral sound, such as the sound of a fan or a waterfall, which can be used to mask tinnitus. Tinnitus maskers are similar to white noise machines, but they are specifically designed for tinnitus and can be worn in the ear like a

What goes on back in the lab, anyway?

Editor’s Note: Emily Schouten is the laboratory director at Woodlawn Hospital, Rochester.

Did you ever wonder what happens to your blood sample after you leave the lab?

I recently asked my teenagers what they thought happened to samples in a lab and my daughter asked, “Do you have vampires in the lab?” Fortunately, we do not have any vampires in the lab. We do have staff who want to give the best possible care to our patients.

What happens to a blood sample in the lab after a phlebotomist draws your blood?

At Woodlawn Hospital, a blood sample’s first stop is the chemistry department. A lab technologist, who has extensive training, reviews the doctor’s order to make sure the correct samples are collected by the phlebotomist.

Next, the sample is processed

so it is ready to be tested on one of the many machines in the lab, called an analyzer. There are many analyzers with cutting-edge technology in the lab and each analyzer tests for very specific items in your blood. Some analyzers measure material in your blood such as glucose or cholesterol. Other analyzers count the red blood cells that carry oxygen and the white blood cells that fight infections.

Not every blood sample is tested on an analyzer. Many samples are handled by the lab technologists, stained with special dyes and looked at under a microscope to help identify unusual cells in the blood or bacteria growing inside the body. A lab technologist is

trained to identify common problems such as bacteria from a person with a urinary tract infection to unusual parasites like malaria.

Woodlawn Hospital has a microbiology department on site inside the lab. Microbiology is a specialized department where samples from the human body are placed in petri dishes to grow the bacteria that are causing infections. Once the bacteria grow, the lab technologist places the bacteria in an analyzer that can determine which antibiotic is best to treat the infection.

Most lab tests are completed the same day they are collected. All results are reviewed by the lab technologists before the report is sent to your doctor. Sometimes there are tests not finished at Woodlawn Hospital. These tests are sent to a reference lab for more testing.

The next time you are in the lab at Woodlawn Hospital, ask the phlebotomist about what happens to your blood sample, but please do not expect to find any vampires.

hearing aid. They produce a sound that is specifically tailored to the individual’s tinnitus and can be adjusted to match the pitch and loudness of the tinnitus.

Hearing aids with tinnitus masking features can also be used to reduce the effects of tinnitus. These hearing aids are designed to amplify external sounds, making them easier to hear, while also producing a masking sound to cover up tinnitus. The masking sound is typically a low-level noise specifically tailored to the individual’s tinnitus.

Tinnitus masking therapy can be effective in reducing the perceived loudness of tinnitus and making it less noticeable. This can help improve the quality of life for people with tinnitus by reducing the impact of the condition on their daily lives.

It’s important to note that tinnitus masking therapy is not a cure for tinnitus, but it can help to alleviate the symptoms. It’s important to consult with an audiologist or a hearing professional to evaluate the best treatment options for you.

As a trained tinnitus therapy professional, I have helped hundreds of people address their needs through the use of hearing aids and tinnitus masking devices. Hopefully we will be able to help even more people once our Logansport office is up and running.

In conclusion, undiagnosed hearing loss could be a significant con-

tributing factor to tinnitus. If you are experiencing tinnitus, it is important to have your hearing evaluated by a licensed hearing health care provider.

If hearing loss is identified, treatment options such as hearing aids or cochlear implants can be considered to help reduce tinnitus symptoms and improve your quality of life. Additionally, cognitive-behavioral therapy can also be helpful in managing tinnitus symptoms. By addressing hearing loss, we can improve the lives of millions of people who are struggling with the debilitating effects of tinnitus.

Tractor drive-in

Continued from page 9

related to agriculture or something else altogether.

“The skills students gain through FFA can help them in any career,” said teacher Justin Pearson, the Rochester FFA faculty adviser.

Keegan Reinhold is a 16-year-old junior who serves as reporter for the Rochester FFA Chapter. “You don’t have to grow up on a farm,” he said, “to be in FFA.”

Rochester’s FFA Week kicks off Monday, Feb. 20, with an annual ski trip. Members will be taking to the slopes at Bittersweet Resort in Michigan. The ski trip is a “big ticket” event that by itself draws students to join FFA, Lowe said.

After the ski trip and the trac-

tor drive-in Wednesday, the week is capped on Friday with a cornhole tournament, a dunk tank with teachers on the hot seat, and a teacher kiss-the-pig contest.

Friday will also see the final chug-off of the milk chugging contests that take place throughout the week during lunch. Additionally throughout the week will be lunchtime contests for corn shelling and nail driving; dress-up days; and a different live animal to visit each day in the ag shop, including a horse, dog, goats and pig.

FFA members’ school year tends to revolve around February’s FFA Week.

“This is our week,” Lowe said. “It’s like a sectional game for us.”

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

Miscellaneous A085

Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author’s

LOOKING TO BUY HUNTING

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

BUSINESS SERVICES

Handyman C157

HANDYMAN TROY

Small Remodeling, Decks, Landscaping, Odd Jobs, Garage Door Pressure Washing

Call Troy (574) 835-8499

Insurance C200

Plumbing C260

EMPLOYMENT

General Employment E030 DSP

Pike Garage Doors Inc.

Small Plumbing Jobs & Sewer Work

Please Call Ple

Tax Service C380

QUICK REFUNDS! Professional tax returns at Suzie’s Accounting - Open by appointment. Accepting new clients. Call 574-382-2285.

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 1/31/24. 1-866-479-1516

Misc. Service C430

HughesNet - Finally, super-fast internet no matter where you live. 25 Mbps just $59.99/mo! Unlimited Data is Here. Stream Video. Bundle TV & Internet. Free Installation. Call 866-499-0141

MobileHelp, America’s premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you’re home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! 1-888-489-3936

Manitou Training Center has

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

Work

D and N Auction

574-780-2768 or 574-780-2640

Sunday, February 26

Carl Brock Estate from Argos, Indiana

AUTOS: 2001 Chevy 1500, 4 wheel drive, (very, very, clean truck), 154k miles; 1989 Lincoln Town Car – again very clean, not sure of mileage at this time, putting new battery in at the time of this listing.

LAWN AND GARDEN: (1) Raider 10 w/rear tiller - non running; (1)

Wheel Horse 308-8 - again non running; 1 huge Hydrostat Wheel Horse 518-H - non running; (1) Wheel Horse snow blade; (1) John Deere GT 242 – non running; large wheel barrow; rakes; shovels; (2) Stihl weed eaters - non running; 12 gal. Craftsman wet dry vac; (2) live traps; pull behind seeders; lawn/leaf sweeper; ladders and more.

MERCHANDISE

Building Materials P040

BARN BEAMS FOR SALE. 40 (12’x13’) $125 ea. 1 (32’) $325. Call 574-835-8846.

Fuel/Firewood P100

DRY, SEASONED FIREWOOD for sale, no deliveries. 574-835-6820 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

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

C228

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

ROUND UP THE SAVINGS IN THE CLASSIFIEDS

Health/Fitness P150

VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Generic Pills SPECIAL $99.00. 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-445-5928 Hablamos Español

Note: The mowers are complete and barn fresh!!!!!!! We have not tried to start any at this time.

GLASSWARE: Holland Mold Company, Fenton, Mr. Peanut bottle, oil lamps.

HOUSEHOLD AND MISC.: (1) davenport; recliner; dining room table; China hutch; queen box spring and bed frame; (1) full size bed frame; (2) full size mattresses; dressers; small roll top desk; piano bench; rocking chair; dry sink; infrared heater; lamps; end tables; 32” flat screenTV; Griswold frying pan and others; (6) vintage metal lawn chaird; vintage corn sheller; barn lamps; misc. fishing lures, rods and reels; minnow trap; lanterns; minnow bucket; vintage outside hand pump; metal wood rack; vintage steel wheel; hand plow; hand tools; hardware; pipe wrenches; milk can; BBQ grills; porch swing; metal car ramps; handicap potty; nice walker; wood porch swing; clean microwave; several ceramic small Christmas trees; luggage; steamer trunk; small enamel top table and much more.

This is a very short listing. We are still digging!!! This is just a sample!!!!!!!!

Notes: See many pictures at www.gotoauction.com ID#6378, www.auctionzip.com ID#5282, www.dandnauction.com and Facebook !!!

Terms on Vehicles: Cash and or Credit – Debit Cards. Vehicles can be taken day of sale. Indiana personal check and or bank notes, cashier checks must clear banks before removed. All taxes will be paid at BMV. You will be provided with paperwork for the BMV once everything is cleared via these terms.

Note: All statements day of sale will take precedence over all written matter.

Terms: CASH, Ind. state check w/good ID and Phone # only, Debit and Credit with 4% Service Fee!!!! NO OUT OF STATE CHECKS!!! ALL items sold as is!

Col. Darrell Pitts AC31400033 Col. Ted Annis AU10300102 AU08900148

1-800-552-3309

Fax 574-382-2522

P UBLIC A UCTIONS

Online Only Hibid

Consignment Auction

Auction runs Feb. 24 to March 2. Consignments taken 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Feb. 18; and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Feb. 2023. Inspection day: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 24. Trailers, vehicles, boat, tractors, equipment, mowers and much more. Online catalog updated daily after Feb. 18 at olsonauctions. hibid.com. For information, call Nate at (574) 242-1262.

30th Annual Rochester FFA

Consignment Auction

9 a.m. Saturday, March 25, at Fulton County Fairgrounds. Advertising deadline, Tuesday, March 7. Consignments taken March 22-24. To advertise, contact any Rochester FFA member or Ag Advisor Justin Pearson,

Misc. Merchandise P200

!!OLD GUITARS WANTED!! GIBSON, FENDER, 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

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

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

Classifieds Pack A Big P u n c h

(574) 223-2176, ext. 4131. Contacts at Olson Auctions are Nate, (574) 2421262; Gary, (574) 595-5164; and Kenny, (574) 242-0146.

PETS

Dogs/Cats/Pets Q010

A DOZEN PIGEONS for sale. $4 a piece. 574-223-1977

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

FIND GREAT DEALS IN THE CLASSIFIEDS

REAL ESTATE RENTALS

Buildings For Rent U030

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

TRANSPORTATION

Autos Wanted W050

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

WANTED

Fulton County SWCD holds 83rd annual meeting and banquet

Fulton County Soil and Water Conservation District held its 83rd annual meeting and banquet at the Geneva Center in Rochester Monday, Feb. 6.

The event featured a welcome by outgoing SWCD Board of Supervisors Chairman Dustin Zellers and well as introductions by SWCD Executive Director Megan Malott, who was appointed in 2022. Zellers praised Malott for being a “detail oriented” and “creative thinker” who works well in teams and in “meeting strict deadlines … we’re very impressed with her skills.”

Following a program by State of Indiana Cooperative Invasives Management Regional Specialist Mandi Glanz, plaques were

ADVERTISEMENT FOR ADMINISTRATOR PROCUREMENT

presented in FFA soil judging to Gavin Young, fourth place; Keegan Reinhold, third; Kyler Lowe, second; and Hunter Shriver, first.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FROM CONSULTANTS/GRANT ADMINISTRATORS FULTON COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY, INC.

Fulton County Housing Authority, Inc., (FCHAI) is applying for a grant from the HOME Investment Partnership Program administered by the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority to rehabilitate homes for affordable rental housing in and around Fulton County, Indiana.

To assist FCHAI with the financing and construction of this project, FCHAI is soliciting cost proposals from qualified consultants/grant administrators to provide the following services:

1. Coordinate the closing on all funding sources.

2. Assist in the preparation of all required reporting through project completion.

3. Assist in the selection of construction contractors.

4. Oversee the compliance with all federal requirements associated with each funding source to include, but not be limited to, Uniform Relocation Act, Davis- Bacon, Environmental Review, etc., if applicable.

5. Advise FCHAI on all rent and income restrictions imposed by each funding source, and provide information on requirements for the documentation of tenant income.

6. Review income certifications provided by the property manager.

7. Review all invoices for reasonableness and conformance with the project budget.

8. Prepare and maintain an ongoing project budget.

9. Advise and train staff on any requested issue related to the project.

10. Meet periodically with staff and board members as necessary to report on the progress of the project.

11. Assist FCHAI in negotiations with and oversight of project contractors.

12. Identify additional resources, as needed, to complete the project.

13. Provide assistance with services, not specifically listed above, necessary for the successful completion of this project.

Consideration will be given to applicants’ (a) experience, technical expertise, and past performance in administering HOME grants for types of projects described herein, (b) ability to contribute to FCHAI’s capacity to successfully carry out the proposed project.

If you are interested in providing the consulting/grant administration services described above, please submit a proposal no later than February 21, 2023 containing an estimate of hours needed and hourly rate along with a company or personal resume to: Fulton County Housing Authority, Inc, 125 East 10th Street, Rochester, IN 46975 or call Pat Brown at (260)417-1071.

Evaluation Criteria Proposal Evaluation criteria shall include:

1. Specialized experience or technical expertise of the organization and its personnel in connection with the scope of services to be provided and complexity of the project.

2. Past record of performance on contracts, including quality of work, timeliness and cost control.

3. Capacity of the organization to perform the work within time limitations, taking into consideration the current planned workload of the firm.

4. Familiarity of the organization with this type of project or problems.

5. Price

Fulton County Housing Authority, Inc. is seeking proposals from qualified grant administrators to administer HOME grant funds for rehabilitation of homes located in and around Fulton County, IN.

To obtain a detailed request for proposals and additional information about the project, contact Pat Brown at FultonCountyHousingInc@gmail.com.

Proposals from women’s business enterprises, minority business enterprises, federal disadvantaged business enterprises, veteran owned small businesses, and/or disabled veteran small businesses are encouraged.

Proposals are due by February 21, 2023

ROCHESTER FIRE DEPARTMENT

The Rochester Fire Department will be accepting applications for a full-time firefighter.

1. Must be at least 21 yrs. old and not older than 36 yrs. old.

2. Have a minimum certification of Indiana State Mandatory and CPR. Firefighter I & II and EMT-B is preferred. Must complete and pass Firefighter I & II within the first year and EMT-B when available or you will be disqualified from the job.

3. Must pass a written and basic firefighting skill test, put on and wear a SCBA, search for a victim in a dark room, set and climb a ladder, drag 2 ½ inch hose, and a mile run.

4. Must pass a back ground check.

5. Must pass the State PERF physical before you can start working for Rochester Fire Department.

6. Applications can be picked up at Rochester Fire Department, 2006 E. State Rd. 14, Rochester, IN 46975. Applications must be returned back to the Fire Station by close of business, March 10, 2023.

SWCD Supervisor Mike Norman then presented Duane Riddle with the State of Indiana River Friendly Farmer Award and the Joe Kroft Conservation Award for his implementation of conservation practices such as no-till farming, cover crops and rotational grazing for his cattle. Norman quoted Riddle as saying “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’ve been doing it right for 30 years.”

“Riddle uses intensive halfrotational 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,” said Norman, who quoted Riddle as saying “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’ve been doing it right for 30 years.”

SWCD Board Vice Chairman Kyle Riffle then presented the 4-H Recognition Award to Katie Schouten for her soil and water project at the Fulton County Fair. She went on to earn a merit award at the Indiana State Fair. Her project studied water quality and different types of pollution.

During agency reports, Purdue Extension’s Mark Kepler, who also serves on the Fulton County

Continued on page 15

Fulton County SWCD

Park Board, encouraged attendees to visit the new 60-acre county park built on the site of a former dump where there are plans to take out invasive species. “We have four parks now we’ve put on in the last 20 years.”

SWCD Board Secretary/Treasure Matt Harsh reported on programs and accomplishments in 2022. These included $8,961 in incentives to 18 landowners for planting cover crops; receiving a three-year Clean Water Indiana grant for $73,000 to go toward cover crops, pollinator habitat and education; the 2022 Arrowhead Country River Rafting event with 14 schools and 280 participants; over $66,000 in payments for completed conservation practices, earning a district administration fee of $6,600; and several others.

Glen Jones reported on water sampling efforts to identify sources of pollution in Lake Manitou. “Significant progress was made in the past year,” he said. Large quantities of E. coli of a human source were identified at two tile outlets into Ditch 7 west of Macy. Lab results were turned over to Lima County Sanitarium, the agency in charge of wastewater disposal regulations. Efforts will continue into 2023.

Drew McCully took his oath of office as SWCDs newest su-

pervisor and will serve a threeyear term. McCully graduated from Purdue University with a major in agricultural sales and marketing and spent eight years working for retailers such as Landmark Coop and Nutrien Ag

Solutions before becoming a business development manager for a private crop insurance company. He is currently a seed advisor with Beck’s Hybrids and works with Dick Sims Crop Insurance out of Logansport.

McCully and his wife Stephanie reside at Valhalla Farms, a blueberry farm west of Rochester they purchased in 2021, where they utilize several soil biological products alongside water testing and soil moisture probes to monitor irrigation practices.

HELP WANTED

Receptionist Wanted For Local Companion Animal Veterinary Clinic

The position will be 30 to 35 hours weekly and will include some Saturday hours.

Duties include: answer phones, greeting & invoicing clients, receiving payments, small administrative tasks, & explaining doctor directions and use simple professional veterinary medical terminology. Qualified applicants will have professional attitude & appearance, excellent verbal & written communication skills, be able to lift 30 pounds, must have experience in Windows based software systems, be on time and dependable, and learn quickly.

If interested send resume to:

Akron Vet Clinic

13438 East State Road 114, Akron, IN 46910

Or you may email us at: tbone@akronvetclinic.com

NEW KITCHEN ISLAND FOR SALE

Top Butcher Block - 3’x64”

3-Drawers & Cabinet In

2’W x 55”L x 38”H Base Paid $1,100 Asking

Executive Assistant Advertisement

The Fulton County Economic Development Corporation (FEDCO) is seeking an Executive Assistant to partner with the board of directors and executive director to further economic development and other matters in Rochester and Fulton County, Indiana. Nonprofit experience is preferred but not required. A willingness to learn the industry bottom to top will be helpful. A high level of organization is necessary, as is multi-tasking, knowledge of Quick Books, Microsoft products (Word, PowerPoint, Publisher), knowledge of social media and website management, an ability to work independently when necessary, possess a positive attitude and have a team approach. Other/additional responsibilities will be discussed during the interview.

Address applications to Executive Director, FEDCO, 822 Main Street, Rochester, IN 46975. Applications will be accepted until February 24, 2023.

Location: 259 S. 700 W., Winamac, IN

Auction opens Feb. 24, 2023 & ends March 2, 2023 olsonauctions.hibid.com

Consignments taken Feb. 18 (8-4) & Feb. 20-Feb. 23 (8-5)

Inspection Day: Friday, Feb. 24th (9-2) ET

Buyer pick up: Friday, March 3 & Saturday, March 4 (9-4) ET

Continued from page 14

Rochester wins back-to-back semistates, sends four to state

Editor’s

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

Once again, the Rochester

wrestling team won the semistate title Saturday at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum in Fort Wayne.

And once again, they sent four individuals to the state finals.

The Zebras won 16 total matches at the semistate, and they needed every one of them to make it back-to-back semistate titles. They scored 77 points; runner-up Delta had 75.

Rochester had never won a team semistate title prior to 2022.

The state qualifiers include:

• Junior Alex Deming, the semistate champion at 195 pounds who

will carry a perfect 43-0 record to state.

• Junior Brady Beck, who finished second at 220 after losing his first match of the season in the final to Julante Hinton of Fort Wayne Northrop.

• Freshman Layne Horn, who took third at 106 but also suffered his first loss of his high school career.

• Freshman Brant Beck, who won a sudden victory thriller over Chase Leech of Garrett in his ticket match before dropping his final two matches of the day and finishing fourth.

In the state finals draw Sunday, Deming drew Clinton Central’s Cael Albaugh in his first-round match. Brady Beck will take on Noblesville’s Austin Hastings. Horn will face Avon’s Nathan Rioux. Brant Beck will wrestle topranked Sam Goin of Crown Point.

Wrestling at the state finals starts at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.

Rochester wrestlers went 9-1 in 10 first-round matches at semistate. In addition to Horn, the Beck brothers and Deming, other Zebra winners included Ethan Holloway (120), Aaron Swango (126), Greyson Gard (152), Colin Weiand (170) and Gavin McKee (182).

Carlos Orduno (HWT) lost to

Heritage’s Parker Hennessey 3-1 on a takedown with four seconds left to prevent a clean Zebra firstround sweep.

In the second round, also known as the ticket round as winners earn a “ticket” to the state finals:

Holloway lost 5-3 to Delta’s Neal Mosier, ending his prep career.

Swango lost by fall in 2:27 to Jay County’s Cody Rowles, ending his prep career.

Gard lost 8-2 to Bellmont sophomore Gavin Davis, ending his prep career.

Weiand lost 12-5 to Columbia City’s Tanner Reed, ending his junior season.

McKee lost by fall in 1:37 to NorthWood’s Kaden Lone, ending his prep career.

But the four Rochester winners earned gripping victories.

Horn won 8-0 over East Noble’s Kealon Fuller, earning a takedown and early back points to claim a 4-0 lead.

Brant Beck gave up the first takedown to Garrett’s fourthranked Chase Leech in the third period to fall behind 3-1 before he got an escape and a takedown with 51 seconds left to take a 4-3 lead.

Leech got an escape to tie the match at 4-4.

But in overtime — “sudden victory” in wrestling parlance — Brant Beck got a takedown to win 6-4 and immediately raised his arms in victory in the direction of the Rochester fan section in the bleachers.

Deming warded off a late takedown effort from Adams Central’s Trevor Currie to win 5-4 and earn his state ticket.

Brady Beck got a takedown at the second-period buzzer to take a 2-1 lead over Fort Wayne Concordia’s Chance Harris and went on to win 3-1.

In a highly anticipated match between unbeatens, Horn lost 8-1 to Delta’s Ayden Bollinger in the semifinals before he recovered to beat Manchester’s Rex Moore by technical fall (16-0) in the thirdplace match.

Brant Beck lost 2-1 in an ultimate tiebreaker to Jimtown’s Conner Watts in the semifinals where Watts was able to ride Brant Beck from the top position in the final tiebreaker period. In the thirdplace match, Brant Beck lost 7-3

to Cowan’s Levi Abbott.

Deming handled Concord’s Armen Koltookian 12-6 in the semifinals in a rematch of Deming’s sudden victory win over Koltookian in the final of the Rochester John McKee Memorial Invitational on Dec. 17. He then beat Elkhart’s Nash Shupert 10-5 in the final, garnering four takedowns and a reversal.

Brady Beck, ranked No. 2, topped No. 5 Keagan Martin of Bellmont 1-0 in the semifinals on a third-period escape. He then lost a rugged 3-2 final to Hinton, yielding a rare takedown in the third period to offset his two escapes.

Boys Bowling: Navarro Wins State Singles Title

Rochester junior Enrique Navarro won the state singles title Saturday at Royal Pin Western in Indianapolis.

Navarro was seeded fourth after three regular games and then beat three higher-seeded bowlers to claim the title.

He started with a 246-209 win over Northview’s Brylan Hill, followed it with a 232-164 win over Bellmont’s Christopher McDonald Jr. and then defeated top-seeded Adam Harrison of Mishawaka Marian 199-183 in the final.

Girls Diving: Faoro Finishes

15th At Regional Rochester’s Simona Faoro scored 201 points and finished 15th out of 20 divers at the Mishawaka diving regional Feb. 7, ending her season. Only the top eight divers advanced.

Boys Basketball: Thanks To Leasure’s Heroics, Rochester Edges Wabash

Paul Leasure scored a gamehigh 30 points, including the game-winning 17-foot jumper with 28 seconds left, to give the Rochester boys basketball team a come-from-behind 62-61 win over Wabash Friday.

Rochester trailed 33-18 at one point in the second quarter but cut the lead to nine by halftime and to six after three quarters.

Down 61-60 in the final minute after a Luke Hunting steal, Rochester set up for the potential go-ahead bucket. Leasure, Rochester’s senior point guard, dribbled at the top of the key while Daughtry guarded him. The other four Zebras lined up along the baseline.

Leasure freed himself off the dribble and hit the go-ahead shot from the left elbow.

Wabash had two chances to take the lead, but Grant Ford missed short from the left baseline with 8.5 seconds left.

Hunting missed the front end of a one-and-one with 5.7 seconds left, but Daughtry missed a 23-foot runner at the buzzer, and Tanner Reinartz rebounded at the buzzer to secure the win.

Leasure scored his 1,000th career point in a 68-47 loss to Plymouth on Tuesday. Brock Bowers had 15 points to lead the Zebras.