Daulton Conley had been battling drug addiction for some time.
He was accepted into Fulton County Drug Court where he struggled with the program at first, but said after awhile he realized: “I’ve got an opportunity here to change my life.”
“It really did: it saved my life through the program,” he said.
Fulton County’s court was certified in 2020, with the first person graduating in 2021. Through it, those facing substance-related charges complete a number of objectives in exchange for lesser punishments.
“It’s to address their underlying problems they have when coming into the criminal justice system, to address those to where they’re not coming back into the criminal justice system,” said Fulton County Superior Court Judge Greg Heller.
He’s part of the board overseeing the program, with other members consisting of: Prosecutor Mike Marrs, Deputy Prosecutor Rachel Arndt, Chief Public Defender MacKenzie Breitenstein, Chief Probation Officer Andy Holland, Probation Officer Todd Hudkins, and 4C Health Assistant Director of Criminal Justice and Peer Recovery Services Becky Clark.
Heller wanted to establish a court when he was first running for election in 2018.
“(Fulton Circuit Court) Judge (Christopher) Lee really worked with Andy to really get the groundwork laid in preparation for that before I even got into office,” said Heller.
People may be referred to the court by defense attorneys, judges, the prosecutor’s office and probation.
“It was started primarily for people who have had a long history of specifically substance abuse and
Greg
Michael Fugate.
criminal history,” Heller explained. “We have now taken in participants with lesser histories, but normally it’s not going to be for first-time offenders.”
People generally get an “upfront, fixed- plea agreement,” said Heller, which means they will face a maximum sentence for their charges if they don’t successfully complete the court.
“Honestly, if they finish the program, the felony charges normally are dismissed,” added Holland.
The program started out being 12 months, but leaders are changing it to 18 months.
Those months are broken up into four phases.
In the first one, inmates must complete such requirements as drug testing is twice a week, appearing in court weekly and working on obtaining employment or doing vocational/educational activities.
The first phase also includes being GPS-monitored on home detention or a stay in a residential addic-
tion treatment facility, like Serenity House in Warsaw.
In the next three phases, requirements include program members having to get and maintain employment, with court appearances decreasing and drug testing lessening over time.
People also move off of home monitoring into weekly case management and then weekly office visits.
Holland noted the county prefers
Continued on page 5
CHANGED LIVES — Two of Fulton County Drug Court’s graduates, Michael Fugate, left, and Daulton Conley pose in Fulton County Superior Court. Photo by Leah Sander.
GRADUATION DAY Michael Fugate poses with those associated with Fulton County Drug Court on his graduation from it in May 2024.
Shown from left are Fulton County Chief Probation Officer Andy Holland, Fulton County Superior Court Judge
Heller, Fugate, Fulton County Probation Officer Todd Hudkins, Fulton County Prosecutor Mike Marrs, Fulton County Chief Public Defender MacKenzie Breitenstein and Daulton Conley. Photo provided by
Former Zebra now serving as Rochester SRO
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
A former Rochester High School Zebra is now serving Rochester Community Schools as a school resource officer.
Rick Utter became the SRO in March, taking over from Mitch Scott.
Utter, Rochester, was a member of the RHS Class of 1983. His mother also taught at RCS for 29 years.
Utter previously worked at Dean Foods. He joined the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office as a reserve officer in 2007, becoming full time when he started as SRO.
“I’ve just always liked law enforcement. I could never afford to make that move before, but (did so) when this job was offered,” said Utter.
He noted Scott and original RCS SRO Skeeter Daugherty “paved the way” for him in his new role.
“It was kind of easy for me to step in,” said Utter.
Utter, who is married to Teri noted the job means a lot to him as his three grandchildren attend RCS. His daughter, Kayla Buckner, a 2006 RHS grad, also works for the school corporation.
Utter said his tasks include “the safety and security of all students and staff.”
His focus as SRO is “to bridge any gap between law enforcement and school just to make a safer environment for learning,” he said.
Utter said his job also is “to establish positive, trusting relationships with students, staff, parents and the community.”
He noted he has “a good rela-
tionship with the superintendent and everyone else in the school system.”
“Everybody has made me feel like part of the Zebra family,” said Utter, noting he also has support from the FCSO and
Rochester Police Department in any emergency. Utter noted at the elementary level his job entails spending time with students, “just simply being there, fist bumps and high fives.”
“You don’t have the problems there obviously,” he said.
“At the middle school (level) you start getting some issues and some bad decisions, risky behaviors and all that, and at the high school level, those issues can potentially get worse. That’s why my office is here (at the high school). I spend the most time here,” Utter explained. “All in all, we don’t have many prob-
lems. Most disciplinary issues fall on the school, and I only get involved in anything criminal in nature. Sometimes a positive approach makes a positive impact and a positive outcome.”
Utter noted he likes “the impact” he has on children.
“Just (by saying) a simple ‘Good morning and how are you today,’ you can see their whole demeanor change, and it just has a positive impact on them. It’s good to see that,” he said.
Utter called being an SRO “rewarding.”
“You just play that little part in trying to make your community better, a better place to live and raise your family,” he said. “Hopefully, it’s making an impact her; just the connection with the kids.” Hold onto your memory
By RUSSELL DAVIDSON SR. Guest Writer
You’re time passed, and we both knew it couldn’t last. I know you are above. I still have my memories of you.
We all share a memory of someone we miss or loved. May that person live in your heart until you are called above, too.
ZEBRA SRO Rick Utter is Rochester Community Schools’ new school resource officer, having started in March. Here he poses by Zebbie at Rochester High School. Photo by Leah Sander.
Let’s Study The Bible —
The first mention of the Gospel in the Bible
(Read: Genesis 3:1-19)
“The Lord God said unto the serpent [Satan], Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life: And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel” (Genesis 3:14-15).
First, internal (Genesis 3:7-13).
THE
When Adam and Eve sinned, immediately there came a loss of innocence and glory and a sense of guilt. They tried to cover their nakedness with their own works, garments that God did not accept (verse 21).
Further, we see a loss of desire for fellowship with God. When they heard God approaching, they hid! Guilt, fear, and shame broke the fellowship with God that they had enjoyed
before their disobedience.
Notice too that there was a growing attitude of self-defense: the man blamed the woman and the woman blamed the serpent. We see here the tragic internal effects of sin.
Second, external (Genesis 3:14-19). It is likely that the serpent Satan used was not the crawling creature that we know today. The name suggests brightness and glory, but because the creature yielded to Satan and shared in the temptation, it was judged and condemned to a lowly life in the dust.
The woman’s judgment involved multiple conception and pain in childbirth. She was made subject to her husband.
Notice that Paul suggests that Christian women who marry unsaved men may have special dangers in bearing children (1 Timothy 2:8-15).
The judgment on man involved his work: paradise would be replaced by wilderness, and the joy of ministry in the garden by the sweat and toil in the field. It is not work that is God’s penalty, because work is not sinful (Genisis 2:15). It is the sweat and toil of work and the obstacles of nature that remind
us of the fall of man.
All creation is cursed and in bondage because of sin (Romans 8:15-25).
Third, eternal (Genesis 3:15). This is the first Gospel declared in the Bible: the good news that the woman’s seed (Christ) would ultimately defeat Satan and his seed (Galatians 4:4-5).
It is from this point on the stream divides: Satan and his family (seed) oppose God and his family. God himself put the enmity (hostility) between them, and God will climax the war when Satan is cast into hell (Revelation 20:10).
Review the Parable of the Tares in Matthew 13, and notice Satan has children just as God does. In Genesis 4, Cain kills Abel, and 1 John 3:12 informs us that Cain was “of that wicked one” — a child of the devil.
The OT is the record of the two seeds in conflict; the NT is the record of the birth of Christ and his victory over Satan through the cross.
Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines free at rcpbibleoutlines.com. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.
Conservation record continues to be broken by Hoosier farmers, landowners
In a remarkable achievement for sustainable agriculture, the latest results from the Conservation Tillage Transect survey reveal that 1.7 million acres of farmland are now under living cover across all crops in Indiana. This significant milestone underscores the increasing adoption of cover crops by farmers, driven by their multiple benefits for soil health, water management and overall farm productivity.
“Protecting soil, our most vital natural resource, is top of mind for our Indiana farmers and year after year, our farmers are breaking their own conservation records,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, Indiana’s Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “Through the implementation of cover crops and other conservation efforts, farmers are ensuring our land and water resources remain healthy and productive for years to come.”
Overwintering living covers (i.e. cover crops and small grains, like wheat) are known for their environmental benefits. Cover crops and small grains help increase organic matter in the soil and improve overall soil health by adding living roots to the soil more months of the year. Cover crops also improve water infiltration into the soil, while other covers, like legumes, serve as natural fertilizers.
Although the conservation transect doesn’t differentiate between cover crops and small grains, Indiana farmers typi-
cally plant fewer than 300,000 acres of small grains annually, so cover crops vastly dominate the 1.7 million estimated acres.
Apart from corn and soybeans, cover crops are planted on more acres than any other commodity crop in Indiana.
Cover crops are typically planted in the fall after harvest and designed to protect the soil and keep roots in the ground throughout the winter, which improves soil health and helps filter water runoff.
“These results are very encouraging,” said Damarys Mortenson, state conservationist for USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service in Indiana. “The adoption of cover crops on such a large scale indicates farmers are recognizing long-term benefits of these practices for both their land and the environment.”
Farmers, like Todd Armstrong, who operates a 1,100-acre farm in Washington County, have seen firsthand the advantages of cover crops.
“The water-holding capacity and tilth of the ground has just improved so much and my neighbors have even seen that,” said Armstrong. “Neighbors that worked ground every year have stopped and started incorporating cover crops because they’ve seen how good it has worked for us.”
As a result of the cover crops and other overwintering covers planted last year, it is estimated 1.8 million tons of sediment was prevented from entering Indi-
ana’s waterways, which would fill about 18.4 thousand train freight cars.
The conservation survey also showed about 69% of row crop acres weren’t tilled and about 17% had employed reduced tillage over winter, after the 2023 harvest. This early spring survey is not intended to quantify pre-planting tillage.
Despite the clear benefits, there are challenges to the widespread adoption of cover crops, including the initial cost of seeds and need for additional management skills; however, various federal and state programs offer financial incentives and technical assistance to help farmers incorporate cover crops into their operations. One such initiative that helped contribute to the successful year for cover crops in 2023 was the Cover Crop Premium Discount Program. It’s a program providing a discount on crop insurance for planting cover crops. CCPDP assisted landowners in planting about 19 thousand acres of cover crops in 2023.
The conservation transect is a visual survey of cropland in the state. It was conducted between March and May by members of the Indiana Conservation Partnership, including USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Indiana State Department of Agriculture, Indiana’s Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Purdue Extension, and Earth Team volunteers, to show a more complete story of the state’s conservation efforts.
By
REV. RON PURKEY
O B ituaries
Heidi Sommers Prince
Heidi Sommers Prince, 42, Rochester, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024.
On April 4, 1982, Heidi Renee Sommers was born in Logansport to Rodney Eugene and Debra Kay Jones Sommers. Growing up she shared her childhood with a sister, Heather, and a brother, Heath. Proudly she graduated from Caston High School with the class of 2000. Continuing her education while aspiring to achieve her life dream of becoming a nurse, she attended Ivy Tech, where she earned the distinction of being a licensed practical nurse.
With her caring heart, Heidi was an amazing nurse, serving several area long-term healthcare facilities, including Miller’s Merry Manor in Plymouth. Taking care of her family, she enjoyed preparing their meals, a favorite was apple glazed pork chops. Heidi liked to be out on the golf course with family and friends.
Left to cherish Heidi’s memory are her husband and lifelong friend, Rusty Prince; three children, Chloe Prince of Rochester, Shea Prince of Kokomo and Corbin Prince of Rochester; parents, Rod and Deb Sommers of Rochester; sister, Heather Henderson and husband Bret of Rochester; and brother, Heath Sommers and wife Ashlee of Flora.
The Nursing Honor Guard of Midwestern Indiana proudly stood at attention to honor the memory of Heidi R. Prince LPN, then conducted a Nightingale Memorial Service just prior to her celebration of the life, at 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 12, at Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 W. 18th St., Rochester. Pastor David Sommers officiated. Friends visited with the family from 4-6 p.m. at the funeral home on Monday.
Electronic expressions of sympathy may be made to her family at goodfamilyfh.com.
Regina Marie (Bennett) Lackey
Regina Marie (Bennett) Lackey, 61, Warsaw, died Monday, Aug. 5, 2024.
She was born on June 24, 1963. On April 6, 1992, she married Bruce A. Lackey; who survives.
Additional survivors are two daughters, Alaina (Cody) McDonald, Akron and Shanai (Cody) Utter, Athens; stepson, Matt Lackey, Merriam; and 15 grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Rosemary and Ernest Bennett; brother, Edward Bennett; stepson, David Lackey; and granddaughter, Kaitlyn Lackey.
Private graveside services will be held at a later date in Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw, with Pastor Larry Pyeatt officiating.
Arrangements were entrusted to Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, 225 Argonne Road, Warsaw.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Rochester Church of God, 3048 Southway 31, Rochester, IN 46975.
Gregory Lee ‘Greg’ Podell
Gregory Lee
“Greg” Podell, 69, Myrtle Beach, S.C., and formerly of Winamac, died Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024. On Aug. 14, 1981, he married Betty M. Smith; who survives.
Additional survivors are two sons, Brian Housinger and Kyle (Isabella) Podell; one daughter, Emily (Andrew) Kruger; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; two brothers, Robert M. (Mollie) Podell Jr. and Douglas J. (Cheryl) Podell; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Anna (Porter) Podell
Sr.
A celebration of life service will be from 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24, in Greg Norman Australian Grille at Barefoot Landing in South Carolina.
Memorial donations may be made to the Purdue University Institute of Cancer Research and/or the Cheryl Lyn Welter Charitable. Visit the website at connect.purdue.edu/InHonorOfGregPodell, or donations may be received by texting CHERYL to 71777
Norma L. Hammond Lee
Norma L. Hammond Lee, 88, formerly of Akron, died at 6:11 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2024, at Kingston Care Center, Fort Wayne.
She was born on July 12, 1936. On Feb. 4, 1972, she married Gene L. Hammond; who preceded her in death on March 31, 1999. She later married James C. Lee; who preceded her in death on Feb. 9. 2022.
She is survived by her children, Terry Hammond, Fort Wayne; and Monica (Stephen) Flannery, Akron; five grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and one sister, Judy Montague, and companion Jim Wolfe, Akron.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Russell L. and Carrie I. (Churchill) Swihart; two brothers, Leroy and Jack Swihart; and one sister, Pauline Ruff.
Funeral services were Wednesday, Aug. 14, at Hartzler Funeral Home, 305 W. Rochester St., Akron, with Pastor Dennis Goff officiating.
Interment was in Akron Cemetery, Akron.
Arrangements were entrusted to Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron.
Bobby Joe Creasy
Bobby Joe Creasy, 80, Winamac, died Saturday, Aug. 3, 2024. He was born on Aug. 19, 1943. On June 15, 1963, he married Alice F. White; who survives.
Christine M. ‘Chris’ Fox
Christine M. “Chris” Fox, 86, Orlando, Fla., formerly of Monterey, died Monday, Aug. 5, 2024, in her home.
She was born on April 19, 1938. On Nov. 17, 1956, she married Ralph J. Fox; who preceded her in death on May 4, 2007. ] She is survived by four daughters, Victoria Fox, Orlando, Fla., Ann (Dennis) Plummer, Port St. Lucie, Fla., Sarah (Bobby) Lawson, Kokomo and Angie (John) Fox, Niceville, Fla.; two sons, Ron (Thelma) Fox, Winamac, Randy (Airetta) Fox, Zephyrhills, Fla.; 13 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; and one brother, Joseph (Mary) Penska, Winamac.
Arrangements are pending at Frain Mortuary, Winamac.
Ronald ‘Scott’ Hamman
Ronald “Scott” Hamman, 65, Melbourne, Fla., and formerly of Rochester, died Wednesday, June 5, 2024. He was born on Nov. 1, 1958. He married Elena Hamman; who survives.
Donald Bryce Day
Donald Bryce Day, 39, Denham, died Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024, at his home.
He was born on Feb. 16, 1985.
He is survived by two sons, Brycen and Isaac; daughter, Bryleigh; parents, Kevin W. and Peggy J. (Minix) Day, Denham; two sisters, Candace (Mason) Burdette, Kouts and Cara (Kane) Hurlburt, Winamac; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and two great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Isabella; brother, Brandon W. (Loretta) Day; and infant nephew, Julian Hurlburt.
Private services will be held at Frain Mortuary, Winamac.
A private interment will be in Denham Cemetery, Denham.
Memorial contributions may be made to Kevin Day.
Online condolences can be shared with the family at frainmortuary.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary, Winamac.
Ronald Arthur Powers
Ronald Arthur Powers, 89, St. Joseph, Mich., formerly of Pulaski County, died Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024.
Additional survivors are two sons, Charles (Sherry) Creasy, Star City and Benjamin (Adela) Creasy, Zionsville; two grandchildren; two brothers, Kenneth L. (Darlene) Creasy and Richard L. Creasy, both of Winamac; four sisters-in-law, Shirley (Joe) Decker, Brenda Craig and Patricia “Sandy” Terry, all of Winamac and Carolyn (Stan) Johnson, Talma; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Hobart Jones and Ruby Grace (James) Creasy; two infant sisters, Juanita Louis Creasy and Neva Creasy; and sister-in-law, Brenda Creasy.
Graveside services were Thursday, Aug. 8, in Winamac Cemetery (McKinley Addition) Winamac, with Pastor Stephen Sundquist officiating.
Interment was in Winamac Cemetery (McKinley Addition) Winamac.
The American Legion and VFW conducted military graveside services.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to LifeWise Academy, for Eastern Pulaski Community School Corporation, or American Diabetes Association.
Online condolences can be shared with the family at frainmortuary.com. Arrangements were entrusted to Frain Mortuary, Winamac.
Additional survivors are his father, Ron Hamman; former wife, Prissana Hamman, and their three daughters, Melissa (Patrick) Jones, Amanda (Johnathan) Stricklin and Casandra (Nick) Hamman; six grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Carole; sister, Terri Lynch; and brother, Michael Hamman.
A celebration of life service was held Saturday, Aug. 10, at Rans Funeral Homes and Crematory, Metzger Chapel, 123 E. Main St., Kewanna. Military rites followed at Kewanna V.F.W. James F. Talbott Post No. 1121, Kewanna. Memorial contributions may be made to Moffitt Cancer Center.
Emory Imhoff
Kaylissa and Nolan Imhoff, Rochester, are the parents of a son, Emory, born at 11:37 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 7, at Blessed Beginnings Care Center, Inc., Nappanee. He weighed 7 pounds, 8.8 ounces, and was 19.5 inches long.
Kingston Charles Sauerhurlburt
Nicole Sauerhurlburt, Kewanna, is the parent of a son, Kingston Charles, born at 4:59 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 7, at Woodlawn Health. He weighed 5 pounds, 10 ounces, and was 19.5 inches long. He joins sibling, Aaliyah Kay 3.
He was born on March 28, 1935. On June 25, 1960, he married Judith Wegner; who preceded him in death in 2011.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Hazel (Zellers) Powers; daughter, Sharon; son, Steve; two granddaughters; his siblings; and his in-laws. There will be no funeral services.
Notes or cards may be emailed to RonPowersFamily@gmail.com or sent to Ron Powers Family, 205 Main St. P.O. Box 123, St. Joseph, MI 49085.
Online condolences can be shared at frainmortuary.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary, Winamac.
Stevie Esparanza Whisman
Amanda and Braxton Whisman, Winamac, are the parents of a daughter, Stevie Esparanza, born at 7:06 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 6, at Woodlawn Health. She weighed 7 pounds, 0.5 ounce. She joins siblings: Matilda, 8; Finlee, 6; River, 3; and Emerson, 1.
Maternal grandparents are Sherie McCrory, Lansing, Ill. and Todd McCrory and Laura Schnieder, Winamac. Paternal grandparents are Rondia Whisman, Rochester. Maternal great-grandparents are Marsha McCrory and Robert and Jann Barnes, all of Lansing Ill. Paternal great-grandparent is Barbra Whisman, Plymouth.
HEIDI SOMMERS PRINCE
BOBBY JOE CREASY
CHRISTINE M. ‘CHRIS’ FOX
GREGORY LEE ‘GREG’ PODELL
NORMA HAMMOND LEE
REGINA MARIE (BENNETT) LACKEY
RONALD ‘SCOTT’ HAMMAN
DONALD BRYCE DAY
RONALD ARTHUR POWERS
C ounty R epo R t
Court News Circuit Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Circuit Court, Judge Arthur Christopher Lee presiding: Complaints
Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC v. Shawna Eckert, Culver, $835.02 Shawver Contracting, LLC v. Brian Utter and Ruth Utter, Macy, $12,911 Superior Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Superior Court, Judge Gregory L. Heller presiding: Complaint
LVNV Funding, LLC v. Tonia Lesh, Rochester, $1,505.54
Credit Acceptance Corporation v. Faye Walters-Morris, Macy, $14,357.80
Traffic Violations
The following fines and levies were paid in Fulton County courts: Driving while suspended Zacharias Rhoton, Carmel, $164.50; Ryan Broka, South Bend, $164.50
No valid driver’s license —
Katelyn Reilly, Nashville, Tenn., $164.50; Thomas Westwood, Rochester, $164.50
No valid driver’s license, speeding — Ezechiel Calixte, Plymouth, $189.50
Operating with expired plates — Lavontae Wagner, Elkhart, $164 Speeding — Daniel Miller, Coral, Migh., $175; Matthew Hansen, Indianapolis, $164.50; Conor Smith, Indianapolis, $192.50; Britney Corsello, Carmel, $164.50; Joseph Cooper, Indianapolis, $164.50; Courtney Briggs, Indianapolis, $164.50; Ashlee Wetzel, Rochester, $192.50; Juan Carper-Gonzalez, Lafayette, $175; Michael Bryant Jr., Indianapolis, $192.50; Timothy Appleby, Mishawaka, $192.50; Maycol Figueroa, Plymouth, $175; Claire Krahulik, Carmel, $175; Maxwell Lanham II, Cincinnati, Ohio, $175; Andrew Prusa, Benton Harbor, Mich., $175; Kilian Dylla, Granger, $164.50; Es-
ther Fielder, LaPorte, $175; Daniela Altamirano, $164.50; Anthony Pollock, Hardinsburg, $164.50; Lariyah Petty, South Bend, $164.50; Ryley Judd, Leesburg, $164.50; Coby Szabo, South Bend, $160; Debra Haughie, Franklin,Tenn., $164.50; Aaron Caito, Westfield, $164.50; Carl Carr, McCordsville $154.50
Marriage Licenses
The following couple has applied for a marriage license in the office of Fulton County Clerk of the Court: Siebert-King Dustin Siebert, 20, Rochester, and Kailiana King, 20, Rochester
Marriage
Dissolutions
The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in Fulton County courts:
Pearson — Ryan Pearson, Winamac, and Sheena Pearson, Rochester. With minor children.
Utter-Quimby — Robert Utter, Argos, and Samantha Quimby, Rochester. With minor children.
obitua R ies
Shirley R. James
Shirley Rae James, 83, Kewanna, died at 4:58 p.m., Friday, Aug. 9, 2024, at Millers Merry Manor, Logansport. She was born on Jan. 16, 1941. On Sept. 11, 1959, she married James H. James; who survives. Additional survivors are two sons, Denzil Lee (Mary) James and Randy Ray (Leah) James; brother, Larry Cunningham; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren and one on the way.
Fulton County Drug
to have no more than six people in the program at one time, with four currently going through it.
Continued from page 1 and one from Indiana Court Services pay for incentives for the program. Participants receive Fulton County Chamber bucks if they do well on parts of the program.
Five people have graduated from the program thus far, including Conley in 2022, with two people not able to complete the program and two other people passing away.
Conley “works for drug court now,” he said.
As a 4C Health peer recovery specialist, Conley has group meetings with those in drug court, working on a wellness relapse prevention plan for them.
“He usually assigns them some sort of homework, whether that be through curriculum or just having them work on something individually,” said Clark.
Another graduate, Michael Fugate, said he’s open to mentoring others going through the program. He completed the program in May 2024.
Fugate was a senior leader at Serenity House where he stayed for drug court. He’s working at a die casting job, which he hopes to make a career.
Fugate is finishing up his high school equivalency, with Conley obtaining his.
“The program doesn’t require it, but it did push me toward wanting to do it ... I just wanted to better myself after (the program),” explained Conley.
Holland said two Fulton County Community Foundation grants
GARDENER OF THE MONTH The Rochester Garden Club picked Stephenia Barkman and Bill Adams as gardeners of the month for July. Shown are some of their plants at 815 Mitchell Drive. Photo by Leah Sander.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Loren and Guyla (Willoughby) Cunningham.
Funeral services were at noon Tuesday, Aug. 13, at Rans Funeral Homes & Crematory, Metzger Chapel, 123 E. Main St., Kewanna, with Pastor David Sommers officiating. Interment was in Citizens I.O.O.F. Cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Fulton County Human Society.
court was helping people because it allowed leaders to interact more closely with offenders.
There are also sanctions if participants mess up a little bit during the program.
“We as a team vote on the sanction and how they have done so far and the progress that they’ve made,” said Clark.
Heller noted the court wouldn’t be possible without the support of both Marrs and Arndt. He said he had seen prosecutors in other counties not react in the same way.
Other board members also praised Breitenstein for everything she’s done for drug court.
Hudkins noted he believed the
“I think that anytime that you can deal with people more on a personal level instead of a cookie-cutter type of probation situation, they’re going to get more from it,” he said.
Fugate added “all he knew” before going through drug court was just relapsing and going back to jail.
He now keeps his Serenity House certificate and his drug court graduation certificate on the wall of his house.
“That way everybody knows that I’m not the same guy I used to be. I’ve got a new life,” said Fugate.
Plenty of fun at Fulton Fun Days
Text and Photos
By DEB PATTERSON Editor-In-Chief
The sun was shinning and an occasional cool breeze blew through the community of Fulton during its annual Fulton Fun Days Saturday.
Residents and guests lined Main Street (SR 25) up to an hour before the 23rd annual Fulton Fun Day parade at noon, which honored its first responders. Most sought the comfort of shade trees and awnings along the parade route — Main Street, Davis Street, Wright Street and Brown Street.
Following the parade, which had approximately 38 entries, the crowd converged on Liberty Township Park where vendors were set up, food options available, inflatable bounce house, dunk tank, tournaments and concerts took place.
The contests included corn hole, pedal tractor pull, chalk art, horseshoes, baseball/softball throw, free throw/three-point basketball, euchre, and 3 on 3 tournament.
The annual event is sponsored by the Fulton Liberty Lions.
Parade winners include:
Best themed entry — Jerie
Good, forensic van, first; Waye Twnship Fire Department’s fire truck, second; and Liberty Township Fire Department fire truck, third.
Best float — Fulton Baptist, first; Woodlawn Hospital, second; and Fulton County Democrats, third.
Performing — Indiana Racing Lions, first; Logansport Shrine Patrol, second.
Horse — The Biehl’s.
Miscellaneous — Rosey the Clown (Stella Hoover), first; and Marion and Mary Nell Hopkins, second.
Best auto — 1937 DeSoto, Hiram Hoover, first; Dick Burns, secons; and 1977 Trans Am, Rat Staller, third.
Best tractor — John Field, first; Brayden Unger, Farmall M, second; Tom Runkle, 1942 M with a potato planter and potato digger, third.
Best truck — McGrew’s Well Drilling, first; Mark Babb, second.
Other festival event winners are:
Euchre — Chuck Baldwin and Ronnie Hammon, Kewanna area, first; and Tom Gundrum, Logansport, and Mark Gundrum, Fulton; second.
Horseshoe tournament — Matt Stevens and Lonnie Stevens.
SECOND PLACE IN TRAC-
TOR DIVISION Brayden Unger’s Farmall M pulling his family on a trailer took second place the tractor division.
BARTENDER WANTED
Serve and prepare drinks. Positive attitude and communication. Operate cash register efficiently. Organize, stock and clean bar. Flexible schedule and rotating weekends. Experience a plus, but will train. Mail resume to: Hiring Manager PO Box 296, Rochester, IN 46975
Keepers of the Faith gospel concert Aug. 15
A gospel concert with Keepers of the Faith will be at 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 15, at Riverview Community
August 23rd-August 25th
8/23
8/24
8/25
Donations will be accepted on August 18th-22nd from 2-6pm at the Historical Society
Church, 2780 SR 110, Tippecanoe.
Keepers of the Faith is the most diverse southern gospel quartet you’ll ever meet. It’s made up of five vocalists who love to serve God with their talents of singing.
The members consist of: Lima Taito, Agaese Taito, Faalai Taito, Zephanaiah Taito and Peter Wainaina. That diversity is evident in their unique style. Keepers of the Faith brings the deep south island flavor, a taste of oldie but goody, and the soul of saved men and women to the genre of southern gospel quartet music.
Keepers of the Faith have been in ministry for over 20-plus years. They began with three brothers of Samoan heritage singing acapella music as a prison ministry team, which would visit those locked and shunned from society. They would
also visit hospitals and sing for every room that would want the uplifting of good harmony singing.
Since 2011, God has blessed this quartet in many ways. They have traveled to places such as Canada, Hawaii, Oregon, California, Kentucky and various cities in the state of Washington. They had the honor of singing on the main stage at the National Quartet Convention.
Keepers of the Faith is a renowned gospel quartet touring and living to the standard of their name. The Keepers of the Faith Ministry sing, preach and, most importantly, live the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is their prayer you see the reflection of Christ in every aspect of its ministry.
There is no ticket charge. An opportunity for a generous love offering will be given.
FIRST PLACE FLOAT Fulton Baptist church’s vacation Bible school float “Scuba! Diving into friendship with God” won first place in the parade float competition.
Smash Out Cancer returns Aug. 17 in Akron
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
Those wanting to help people battling cancer in Kosciusko and Fulton counties have an opportunity to do so on Saturday, Aug. 17.
Beaver Dam Community Church Wheels Fire-Cancer Crusaders are having its annual Smash Out Cancer event at the Akron Community Center, 815 Rural St.
It runs from 4-9 p.m. At 4:30 p.m., live music starts with Kendra Haney, Mike Bowers, Mike Love, Ed Rock and Kylene Crabb performing.
Deb Collier’s School of Dance students perform at 5 p.m., with the live auction, featuring more than 30 items, at 6:30 p.m, and the pie auction, featuring more than 40 pies and cakes, following that.
A memorial lighting service in honor of those who’ve passed away from cancer will start around 8:30 p.m. Food, including Igloo ice cream, will be for sale. Proceeds will benefit cancer care funds in the two counties, which help pay for transportation costs for local people getting treatment and similar needs.
Wheels on Fire Co-Chairperson
Christina Morehouse noted the event is important because “every day, someone we know is touched by cancer.”
“The need for financial assistance by those who are in the battle is continuous,” she said. “The bills don’t stop coming because you are diagnosed with cancer, or you can’t go to work because you have a chemo treatment.”
“We strive to make this event bigger and better each year,” said Morehouse. “The more people we can help, the harder we will work to raise the money they need. No one fights alone. That is why we continue to have Smash Out.”
Morehouse said she hoped attendees “enjoy themselves” in addition to helping out.
“We also hope that they walk away feeling like they played some small part in helping those in need,” she said. “Buying a hamburger or a drink, bidding on an auction item or enjoying Igloo ice cream, all those things help raise money for cancer patients. We also hope that as they leave the event, they are conscious of how widespread cancer reaches those they know and share their community with every day.”
‘Digging Deeper’ to be held Aug. 17
Fulton County Soil and Water Conservation District is hosting an educational event. According to Megan Malott, executive director of Fulton County Soil and Water Conservation District, “Many folks do not know what the conservation districts do. Education is one of five things we do.”
See first hand the important role soil and plants play in keep-
ing soils healthy and in place and waters clean in Fulton County and throughout the world.
International soil scientist, Ray Archuleta, and Barry Fisher, who retired after 39 years with U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, are the guest speakers.
“Digger Deeper” will take place from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 17, at the Fulton
County Fairgrounds, 1009 W. Third St., Rochester. Each workshop will include: rain simulator, AM field visits, afternoon shop class time, understanding and interpreting the new Haney Soil Test, designing a basic cover crop mix, and a Q&A session with the pros.
To register, call the Fulton SWCD at (574) 223-3220, Ext. 3, or visit ccsin.info/4ahSJms.
BLOOM BABY BLOOM — Mackenzie Costello is shown trimming some rose bushes in the landscaping at the courthouse in Rochester. She is from Certified Landscape Services, LLC, of Mentone. Photo by Lori Carr.
PREPARING FOR THE SIREN This youngster covers her ears in preparation for emergency vehicles at the start of the Fulton Fun Day parade.
Updates and happenings around the area
The Fulton County Democrats will meet at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 15, at the Char-Bell Studio, 616 Main St., Rochester (located next to the Times Theater). All are welcome.
—o—
The movie “Princess Bride” will be shown at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 16, at the Times Theater, 618 Main St., Rochester. It’s a free movie; sponsored by First Federal Savings Bank.
—o—
The Walnut Church Ice Cream Social will be from 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 17. Sandwiches, chips, desserts and homemade vanilla ice cream will be served. Proceeds from the free will offering will be used for community support. The church is located at 5975 19th Road, Argos.
—o—
All are invited to attend the Kermes Festival fundraiser for Haiti from 4-8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17, at St. Joseph Parish Hall, 1310 Main St., Rochester. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine. All proceeds from the event will
go to the sister parish of St. Joseph Church in Mariani, Haiti.
—o—
Joe’s Hope Foundation will have “dine and donate” from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18, at Jarretty’s Place and Arlington Public House, 701 Main St., Rochester. Biscuits and gravy, eggs and your choice of water or coffee, all for a free will donation, benefiting Joe’s Hope Foundation and Fulton-Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department; cash only.
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Akron Carnegie Public Library will host a “Potato Derby” at 4 p.m. Monday, Aug. 19, at 205 E. Rochester St., Akron, and is open to kids, teens and adults. Pick up your potato kit at the library and celebrate National Potato Day.
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A commissioner’s meeting will be at 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 19, in the commissioner’s room, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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Elvis’ “GI Blues” will be shown at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 20, at the Times Theater, 622 Main St.,
Rochester. This is $5 senior day and includes a small popcorn and drink for seniors.
—o—
A county council meeting will be at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 20, in the commissioner’s room, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
—o—
“Empower Me To Be Clutter Free” (part two) will be offered by Jessica Riffle, Purdue Fulton County Educator, at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 21, in Kewanna Union Township Public Library, 210 E. Main St., Rochester.
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A board of public works and safety/department heads meeting will be from 7:30-8:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 23, at the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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An area plan meeting will be at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 26, in the commissioner’s room, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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A city council meeting will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 27, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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A redevelopment commission meeting will be from 8:30-9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 28, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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A city park board meeting will be from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 28, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main
SCHEDULE
St., Rochester.
—o—
Rochester First Baptist Fellowship Guild Ladies will host a sponsor night from 4 p.m. to closing, Wednesday, Aug. 28, at Dairy Queen, 1420 E. Ninth St., Rochester. Ten percent of sales will be given to the group to use for its mission projects. Customers must tell staff they are in support of the group or present a voucher when ordering.
—o—
There will be a blood drive from 1-6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 3, at the Rochester Church of Christ, in the Fellowship Hall, 120 E. Fifth St., Rochester. Call (800) 7337267 or visit RedCrossBlood.org to schedule an appointment.
—o—
The Indiana Department of Veteran Affairs is assisting Indiana veterans and their families experiencing financial hardship with essential school essentials through the “Operation Back-toSchool” program.For more information and to see if you qualify, visit in.gov/dva/about-idva/links/ military-family-relief-fund.
—o—
The Heartery, 414 E. Main St., Kewanna, is a nonprofit offering events, which nourish the heart and mind. Yoga with Lori meets at 5:30 p.m. every Wednesday, and 9:30 a.m. every Sunday. The Gathering meets at 10:30 a.m. every Sunday. For more information, call or text Jennifer at (574) 316-0278, or email heartery.kewanna@gmail.com.
Karas recognized by state, local leaders for EMA, 911 work at retirement party
Text and Photos By LEAH SANDER
Fulton County has “huge shoes to fill” with the retirement of Gail Karas, said Brittney Thompson.
Thompson, a former county dispatcher, said those words of Karas at the latter’s retirement party on Thursday, Aug. 8, at the Elks Lodge 2120, Rochester.
Karas retired July 5 as Fulton County’s emergency management agency director and the 911 communications director to take a job with emergency communications company, INdigital, as a disaster recovery specialist.
She’d worked for the county since June 1999, starting as a dispatcher and jail matron.
One of those at the party was Indiana Integrated Public Safety Commission Emergency Response Director Tyler Clements, who presented Karas with a certificate for a “job well done,” he said.
“What we want to celebrate tonight is the time that Gail has put into bringing communications here in Indiana where they really are today for public safety responders as far as the Ohio River all the way to northern Indiana,” he said.
Clements noted Karas served on the state interoperability executive committee, giving input regarding emergency communications and she “was that first voice that spoke up” on related ideas.
Also at the party were St. Joseph County EMA Director Al Kirsits and Deputy Director Jim Lopez.
Kirsits said he and Lopez started leading the EMA “about two years ago” in St. Joseph County and Karas was there to help them.
“We looked to Gail like a godmother and when we couldn’t figure it out ... she would tell us the facts of what it was,” said Kirsits.
“Jim and I personally thank you (because) you helped us, and we’re still going to be calling you and you’re always welcome in our office,” added Kirsits, addressing Karas.
“She’s been a mentor to me as I have been a mentor to her,” said Lopez. “I haven’t worked with anybody that’s worked as hard as Gail and so accomplished at what she does and what she did to make herself better.”
“The only bad thing I can say about Gail is I wish she wasn’t leaving,” added Lopez. “I’ve known her for a long time. I’d do anything for her. If she called in at one o’clock in the morning, I’d be there, and she would be there for me.”
Tony Pesaresi, who served as emcee for the evening, noted Karas
at her retirement
director and 911 communications director roles to work for emergency communications company, INdigital, as a disaster recovery specialist.
helped him with emergency issues as a business owner as the head of Winamac Coil Spring, Kewanna, and as the Kewanna-Union Township Fire Department chief.
“From a business and an industry in Fulton County and as a first responder and as a firefighter and as a former EMT, I’d like to say thank you,” he said.
Fulton County Commissioners’ Vice President Rick Ranstead and Member Dave Sommers noted Karas was largely responsible for the setup of the county’s new 911 center.
“We’ve had people come from all over the United States looking at (the design of) our 911 center,” said Ranstead.
He noted Karas was still helping with county needs even though she’d retired a few weeks ago.
“That just tells you the heart and the dedication she’s got for her community,” he said.
Karas is also a deputy county coroner and will continue to serve in that role.
Fulton County Coroner Jeri Good noted Karas has “a servant’s heart.”
“Vibrant with high energy, Gail is a revered leader of public safety and communications for our community and state,” Good added.
Fulton County Assessor Kasey Hensley said she and Karas “have been colleagues and friends for 14 years.”
“Her sincerity for this county and state goes beyond a job,” said Hens-
ley. “She strives for the best, not just for herself but others.”
Fulton County GOP Chair Mike Canada and Rochester City Councilwoman Amy Roe added Karas, a current state delegate, helped with
GOP events, including decorating for the 2023 Lincoln Day dinner.
“She’s a big help to me as the chair, just again doing whatever I need done. She’s always there to help,” said Canada.
Karas noted she’ll miss most “sitting in dispatch” and the “interactions locally” with her “work family.”
“I truly loved my job and (love) the community I serve,” she said.
HONORED FOR EMERGENCY WORK Gail Karas recently retired as Fulton County emergency management agency director and 911 communications director. At her retirement party on Thursday, Aug. 8, at the Elks Lodge 2120 in Rochester, Karas, left, was presented with a certificate by Indiana Integrated Public Safety Commission Emergency Response Director Tyler Clements.
TAKING ON A NEW ROLE Gail Karas, left, shown with her husband, Pete,
party Aug. 8, left her Fulton County EMA
Woodlawn Health welcomes new OB/GYN
Woodlawn Health welcomes Dr. Laurel A. Walton, OB/GYN, who has joined its team and is an addition to the Maternity Oasis vision.
Walton has an extensive educational background, including an undergraduate degree in biology and chemistry from Nebraska Wesleyan University and a certification in education for grades seventh through 12th.
She went to the University of Nebraska in Omaha, Neb., and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Allied Health and became a certified physician assistant.
Next, she went on to the University of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Science (now called DMU) in Des Moines, Iowa. She completed her internship at Warren General
DR. LAUREL A. WALTON, OB/GYN
Hospital in Warren, Ohio. Her OB/GYN residency was at Texas Tech and Thomas General Hospital.
“I am passionate about my
job as an obstetrician/gynecologist. I never get tired of delivering children and witnessing the miracle of life,” she said. “Daily, I get to help women resolve issues around urine, abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, deal with a miscarriage, and sexual trauma. As an obstetrician/ gynecologist, I am involved in everything from genetic counseling to end-of-life care for women. The field is extremely diverse and stimulating. I have the honor of helping women throughout the different stages of their reproductive lives, and this is why I love being an obstetrician/gynecologist. I have an exciting day every day.”
She joins a team of four obstetrical providers and five when Dr. Selio returns in the fall.
“We continue to earn the right to care for women in our community through enhancing our care options. We are thrilled to be able to offer GYN services after a brief hiatus. As many maternity care options around us close, we are committed to continuing to serve our community and have built an amazing team with Dr. Walton,” COO Brad Rogers stated.
Walton is accepting new patients. To make an appointment, call (574) 223-2020.
Jay Stone Singers gospel concert Aug. 18
A gospel concert with Jay Stone Singers will be at 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18, at Riverview Community Church, 2780 SR 110, Tippecanoe.
The ministry of the Jay Stone Singers began in a small North Carolina town in 1976. Jay Stone, the founder, was beginning to feel God was directing him to take his music ministry on the road. He knew this time would be difficult because the group would be Stone, his wife, Mary, their 14-year-old son, Jeff, their 11year- old daughter, Sharona, and a few close friends.
In 1984, Bobby Carter joined to sing tenor and play the bass guitar. Bobby and Sharona were married in 1987. In 2010, Jay and Mary retired from traveling. They support this ministry through their prayers and man-
aging the business.
Today, Jay Stone Singers consists of Bobby and Sharona Carter and their daughter, Emma Carter Davis.
The Jay Stone Singers’ desire is to encourage the hurting, witness to the lost, and motivate others to grow the kingdom of God. The close family harmonies are sure to please your ears, but the anointing and love of God will stir your soul.
During the last 47 years of ministering through song and evangelism, this family has traveled in approximately 25 states, Canada, Mexico and Ireland. Over the course of the years, they have recorded several music projects.
There is no ticket charge. An opportunity for a very generous love offering will be given.
Indiana to expand program for expectant, new mothers with substance-use disorders
Indiana will expand its “Pregnancy Promise” program to support more expectant and new mothers with substance use disorders.
The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration received a three-year, up to $2.7 million federal grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, which will allow it to support an additional 300 pregnant Hoosiers over the next three years, with a focus on those living in rural and under-resourced communities.
“The program’s multi-generation approach supports pregnant women and infants from the prenatal period through 12 months postpartum,” FSSA Secretary Dr. Dan Rusyniak said. “Not only are
we helping mothers find treatment and sustain recovery, but we also ensure infants have an established pediatrician, appropriate referrals to pediatric specialists, as needed, and developmental support services.”
The program has supported more than 900 mothers since it launched in 2021. While maternal and infant mortality rates are decreasing slightly across Indiana, data from the most recent Indiana Maternal Morality Review Committee’s annual report shows substance use disorder and overdose continues to be a leading cause of maternal death in the state.
The program has resulted in high rates of sustained recovery
Continued on page 11
JAY STONE SINGERS A gospel concert with Jay Stone Singers will be at 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18, at Riverview Community Church, 2780 SR 110, Tippecanoe. Photo provided.
Rochester
fall sports update Lady Zs break school record, place third
The Rochester girls golf team shot a 336 to break the school record for 18 holes at the Kokomo Invitational Saturday, Aug. 10.
By VAL TSOUTSOURIS Sports Editor, RTC
Rochester finished third in a field of eight teams. Noblesville won with a 317. Westfield took second with a 330.
Westfield finished second in the state and Noblesville fourth last year.
Rochester junior Olivia Bailey won medalist honors for the second straight tournament with a 77. Ava Thomas had an 83, Molly Moore had an 87, Lexi Haughs had an 89, and Laynie Migonis had 111.
Haughs’ score was a personal best for 18 holes.
The previous school record was 338, set on three different occasions — in 2011, 2012 and 2013.
Rochester had shot a 339 at the season-opening Kankakee Valley Invitational Monday.
Playing in pleasant weather with temperatures in the mid70s and with fewer penalty areas than the Sandy Pines Golf Club course in DeMotte, the record went down five days later.
Coach Chad Thomas said he wanted the team to participate in the Kankakee Valley Invitational at Sandy Pines Golf Club for years. They finally got an invite this year and showed the rest of the 17-team field what it had been missing.
Rochester shot a 339 in the season-opening tournament Aug. 5 to win the tournament by two strokes over runner-up Lake Central.
The field also included Kankakee Valley and Chesterton, two teams, which beat Rochester to advance to state from last year’s regional at Sandy Pines. This time, the Lady Zs beat thirdplace Kankakee Valley by 20 strokes and fifth-place Chesterton by 33 strokes.
“This is pretty awesome,” Thomas said. “I wasn’t expecting this, but the girls had a solid
Indiana to expand
Continued from page 10 nosis of a substance use disorder; remove barriers and expand outpatient treatment and recovery support services for pregnant and postpartum individuals with a substance use disorder; and promote a coordinated system of care across health care and family support providers.
for mothers, continuity of medications prescribed to treat opioid use disorder, prevention of preterm births, healthy infant birth weights, and access to resources to address unmet health related and social needs, including stable housing, transportation, food security and child care, leading to family preservation and reunification.
The “Pregnancy Promise” program partners with Indiana Medicaid managed care health plans to provide case management and care coordination services to participants, who receive highly-skilled support from an experienced nurse or social worker through the Medicaid health plan, ensuring pregnant individuals are receiving treatment and health care in their local communities.
“We are excited about this grant, which will bolster and expand FSSA’s existing program for pregnant individuals suffering from substance use,” “Pregnancy Promise” Program Manager Elizabeth Wahl said. “The program’s goals are clear — to save infant and maternal lives, preserve family units by securing needed resources, ensure reliable access to appropriate care, and put an end to generational cycles of substance use and trauma. This program has witnessed families persevere, transform their lives and find hope for the future.”
The grant will expand services for pregnant and postpartum individuals with a primary diag-
summer, and it carried over into the season.”
Olivia Bailey, playing in her first school round since suffering an avulsion fracture in her hip playing tennis in the spring, won medalist honors with a 77 to lead the Lady Zs. Ava Thomas shot an 82, Molly Moore had an 84, Lexi Haughs had a 96, and Laynie Migonis had a 114.
Thomas and Moore were sixth and eighth, respectively, out of 80 individuals.
Though Sandy Pines is laden with bunkers and water hazards, it would appear Bailey has taken a shine to it. She was also the medalist with a 72 at last year’s regional at Sandy Pines. Like Bailey, Thomas also advanced to state as an individual from last year’s regional, but the team settled for a heartbreaking fourth, one shot behind Chesterton.
This time, they won their first 18-hole tournament since the Three Rivers Conference tournament last September. This win might compare more favorably as Crown Point, Lake Central and Valparaiso, all of whom are among the 35 largest schools in the state enrollment-wise were
left defeated. Portage, Chesterton, LaPorte and Munster are all Class 4A basketball schools; they were also in the field.
Bailey never had worse than a bogey. She birdied the petite par3 third hole, tapping in from two feet after using a 54-degree gap wedge off the tee from 87 yards.
“I feel pretty good about it,”
Bailey said. “It was pretty hot out. I feel like I did pretty well in the conditions. … We played shorter yardages, but it was a lot hotter,
and other than that, I thought it compared pretty well.”
Ava Thomas, a Grace College signee, birdied both par-5s on the front nine — Nos. 2 and 7. Moore, a freshman, is replacing older sister, Payton, a 2024 Rochester grad, in the No. 3 spot in the Rochester lineup.
Haughs, a sophomore, shaved 21 strokes off her score from last year’s regional.
Migonis, a sophomore, was not in last year’s post-season lineup.
The FSSA will partner with Centerstone, a community mental health center, and VOA Fresh Start, a residential treatment program, to enhance services. This funding will allow uninsured and under-insured pregnant individuals access to additional support.
Anyone can make a confidential referral to the “Pregnancy Promise” program. The program has been funded with a five-year award from the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Innovation, which ends Dec. 31. This grant is scheduled to begin Sept. 30.
ublic A uctions
Ledden Estate Auction
10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 17. Located at 12660 Rose Road, Plymouth.
Online Glass and Pottery Auction Bidding open until 6 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 19. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Glass and pottery collection, including paperweights, handcrafted porcelain, Toby mugs and more. Bid online at metzgerauction.com. Metzger
Property Services. Lakefront and Off-Lake Homes Auction
Bidding open until Thursday, Aug. 22. Tract 1: 6401 Shafer Drive, Macy. Tract 2: Main St., Macy, just across the street from
Tract 1 and 3. Tract 3: 6405 Shafer Drive, Macy. Bid online at metzgerauction.com. Metzger Property Services. Online Coin and Currency Auction Bidding open until 6 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 25. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. High grade and key date coins, including silver dollars, 20 cent coins, silver and gold Eagles, proof sets and more. Bid online at metzgerauction.com. Metzger Property Services.
Indiana summit seeks solutions to healthier waterways
By TERRI DEE Indiana News Service
The Annual Indiana Water Summit, coming up next week, will offer ideas on protecting the state’s waterways.
A 2022 report paints a troubling picture of Indiana’s waterways and streams.
The nonprofit Environmental Integrity Project says the Hoosier state has the most miles of contaminated rivers and streams than any other state.
And almost all the lakes and reservoirs sampled are not considered safe for drinking or swimming.
Bill Blomquist — a summit organizer and member of the board of the White River Alliance with the White River Alliance — said the gathering will also include an in-depth conversation on Indiana’s water law.
“The reason we started it was for there to be a place for statewide conversations about all aspects of our water resources,” said Blomquist, “water supply and water demand, and water quality, environmental, economic uses of our water resources.”
Blomquist noted that Indiana is seeing more storm intensity, which can lead to more runoff and greater flood risk.
He said he thinks the most pressing issue of the two-day summit will be whether Indiana needs a state water strategy.
The event is open to the public and will feature a mix of agriculture, utility and environmental experts. It’s at the Biltwell Event Center in Indianapolis.
Blomquist said most people know about emerging contaminants such as PFAS, but not about pesticides and fertilizers that end up running off into state waters.
Concern is growing about the state’s water supply, usage and whether there will be enough water where and when it’s needed.
Blomquist noted that Indiana is one of the heaviest water-using states in the country.
“We’re fortunate because we have a lot of water,” said Blomquist. “We have abundant fresh water. But that doesn’t mean it’s unlimited. That doesn’t mean it’s infinite. We still have to be smart about how we use it.”
Indiana’s population is projected to be at just over 7 million by 2040, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
This means as competition grows for limited water sources, ground and surface water points may not be replenished enough to meet the demand.
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Doors Open At 4 P.M.
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TABLES FULL OF GLASSWARE & SMALLS . . . RED WING 8 GAL. WATER COOLER W/SPOUT (NO LID), 3 GAL. BUCKEYE CROCK JUG, CROCK JUG LAMPS, OTHER CROCKS, HALL TEA LEAF . . . WATER PITCHER-COFFEE POT-TEA POT-COOKIE JAR-3 PC. NESTING BOWLS, DRIP O LATER (NO LID), ASSORTED SERVING PCS., BEAUTIFUL POLISHED COPPER FYRE-FYTER FIRE EXTINGUSHIER, HONEY HILL CHICAGO PAINTED MILK CAN (NO LID), OLD LYONS CLARINET IN CASE, FEW PCS. PINK & GREEN DEP. GLASS, LRG. CROCK BOWL, 3-SMALL LONGABERGER BASKETS, CAKE PEDESTAL, 1968 COKE WOOD CRATE, 2-JADEITE CUSTARD CUPS, JUICER, ** CULINARY 2 QT. BUTTER CHURN, CARNIVAL HEN ON NEST, CANDY DISH, 3-SAD IRONS, SOME NEAT OLD PICTURES-PRINTS-MIRRORS, S&P’S, 2-WHITE GAS COLEMAN IRONS-1 IS BLUE, NEAT OLD FLOOR LAMP W/GREEN GLOW UNDER BLACK LIGHT, MISC. COSTUME JEWELRY, ARTIFICIAL CMAS TREE, MORE.
ANTIQUE & MODERN FURNITURE BEAUTIFUL 4’ OAK BUFFET W/ MIRROR, WALNUT DRESSER W/GRAPE PULLS, OLD OAK TABLE W/ PULL OUT LEAVES, BIRDS EYE MAPLE DRESSER W/LRG. OVAL MIRROR, MATCHING CHEST OF DRAWERS (SOME WATER DAMAGE), MARBLE ? TOP WIRE FRAME ICE CREAM STYLE TABLE W/3 CHAIRS, MISSION STYLE OAK ROCKER, CUTE SPINDLE LEG TABLE, PIANO STYLE WRITING DESK, OLD TRUNK, OAK LAMP TABLE, BEAUTIFUL OAK KITCHEN CUPBOARD (RE-FINISHED), MODERN. . . . MAPLE ROLL TOP DESK W/CHAIR, SIDE/SIDE OAK CHINA CABINET W/DROP FRONT SECRETARY, COMPLETE FULL SIZE BED W/MAPLE HEADBOARD, FLEX STEEL CHAIR W/FOOTSTOOL, FLEX STEEL PLAID SOFA, 4-OAK DINING CHAIRS, 2-WHITE WASHED LAMP TABLES, OAK FOYER TABLE, OAK STUDENTS STYLE DESK, PR. MAPLE OPEN FACE WALL SHELVES, PR. OAK CORNER SHELVES, OX BLOOD RED LEATHER RECLINER, MORE.
OUTSIDE AT 5:15 EASTERN TIME SNAPPER 5.5 H.P.-22” SNOW BLOWER W/ELEC. START (STARTS RIGHT UP), STANLEY 8’ FIBERGLASS STEP LADDER, WERNER 20’ ALUM. EXT. LADDER, LAWN & GARDEN TOOLS, MINI PORTABLE SCAFFOLDING STAND, DEALER DEMO 2024 HONDA HRN 216 SELF PROP. MOWER W/BAGGER (STARTS RIGHT UP), MURRAY 26” MOWER STARTS RIGHT UP, DEWALT RWD MOWER WON’T START, RYOBI 40V MOWER FOR PARTS. GUY STUFF . . . REALLY NEAT 7 1/2’ X 42” HALF CANOE BOOK SHELFWOULD MAKE A GREAT LUER/FISHING DISPLAY PIECE, CRAFTSMAN POWER TOOLS ON STANDS . . . 10” CHOP SAW, 10” TABLE SAW, ROUTER, DBL. BENCH GRINDER, GRIZZLEY BAND SAW ON STAND, TABLE TOP CRAFTSMAN . . . OLDER RADIAL ARM SAW, BELT/DISC SANDER, 6 1/4” JOINTER/PLANER, 16” SCROLL SAW, OLDER 24” SCROLL SAW, SKILL 10” BAND SAW, BOSTICH 110V PORTABLE PANCAKE AIR COMP. 6 GAL.-150 PSI, DRILL BITS, DAISY B.B. GUN, MOLE TRAPS, LRG. LIVE TRAP, CRAFTSMAN HAND & POWER TOOLS, BENCH VISE, 110V-115 AMP PORTABLE SEARS WELDER, 2 DRAWER KENNEDY MACHINIST BOX, WOOD LATHE KNIVES, FISHING RODS & REELS, MORE. BOX LOTS . . . SEVERAL HAND CRAFTED WOOD HOLIDAY CUT OUTS, BIRD HOUSES, DISHES, CMAS DECOR, LOTS MORE. VERY CONDENSED LISTING . . . VIEW PICTURES & UPDATES AT WWW.GOTOAUCTION.COM I.D. #6381 OR TEDS AUCTION CENTER ON FACEBOOK
***WE ARE A NO RESERVE—NO BUYERS PREMIUM AUCTION*** ALL SALES FINAL .. NO GUARANTEES OF ANY KIND! NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ACCIDENTS OR MERCHANDISE AFTER SOLD! INSIDE SEATED AUCTION - PLENTY OF PARKING RESTROOMS - CONCESSIONS
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COL. DARRELL PITTS AU10300102 TED ANNIS AU08900148 COL. PAUL BEAVER AU01036412 NEXT AUCTION
My wife’s jealousy is getting ridiculous. The other day she looked at my calendar and wanted to know who May was. ~ Rodney Dangerfield ~
Scenes from Fulton Fun Days
GIVING IT A SHOT Baylor Biscella gives a try at the pedal tractor pull.
FIRST TIME COMPETITOR
Chiah Norman, 4, tries the pedal tractor pull for the first time.
SCRAMBLE FOR THE CANDY All ages scramble for the candy being tossed from entries at the Fulton Fun Day parade.
UNIQUE SAFETY HOUSE Parents and children had a unique opportunity to go through the inflatable fire safety house, where safety tips were displayed throughout the inflatable.
