If people wish to see some of their favorite Disney characters brought to life, they’re in luck this weekend.
Rochester High School Tri-Epsilon is presenting the musical “The Little Mermaid” at 7 p.m. Friday, April 24, and Saturday, April 25, in the RHS Auditorium.
Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. each night. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and free for those 4 and younger.
Tickets may be purchased during the school day at the RHS office and at the door the night of the performances.
“The Little Mermaid” follows the story of mermaid Ariel as she seeks to be human to be with Prince Eric, and in doing so, makes a deal with the evil sea witch Ursula.
RHS Tri-Epsilon Director Brenda McClain said she and musical directors Deanna Gualtieri and Linnea Bendes picked “The Little Mermaid” as the spring play as they “were looking for a musical that would be fun and maybe even nostalgic.”
“Everyone knows ‘The Little Mermaid,’ and we thought we probably had a good group of students for the cast,” she said. “I am convinced more than ever that we have the
perfect cast (and crew)!”
McClain said she hoped students “grew, gained confidence and courage and found their voice, both literally and figuratively” through the play.
“I cannot tell you how much joy it gives me to see a student begin to feel comfortable enough to try new things, to loosen up a bit and then become bold,” she said. “I hope students learn leadership skills: like when our ‘seasoned’ students take ‘newbies’ under their wings and show them the ropes.”
McClain added she wants the kids “to learn how to look at challenges as problems to solve, to work with those around them and to become resourceful.
“It takes the entire group to pull a production together,” she said. “There are fun times as well as extremely challenging times. We have to learn to communicate, take breaks when needed, apologize when needed and then get back at it and make it happen, because, like life, ‘the show must go on.’”
She said she hoped the audience wanted to come back to future Tri-Epsilon performances after viewing “The Little Mermaid.”
“I hope it sparks or continues to fan the flame of a love of live theater in general in our audience members,” said McClain. “I would love for them to go and support our surrounding school and civic theater programs and buy
tickets to see a professional production. There is nothing quite like live theater!”
During the performances, audience members can also get on in the action.
Mini flashlights will be sold at the door for two for $1, and people may shine them toward the stage during a scene as “fireflies.”
McClain said people may also send “Break a Leg” notes for $1 each before the show to the cast or crew member of their choosing. Those may be bought at the door.
Continued on page 3
Helping clients declutter and organize their environments
By LAURIE LECHLITNER Staff Writer
“I taught school at Tippecanoe Valley School Corp. for 12 years,” stated Mallory Eaton, Akron. “I taught special education at the middle school for five years and health and P.E. at the high school for seven. I’ve grown to understand people and their needs on a deep level.
“One of the things I did for family and friends during those days was to help them declutter and organize their space. When I thought about doing that full time, I felt excited. So, I took a detour from teaching and started
Mud2Lotus, forming an LLC in November 2025. Now I’m a professional organizer, and I love it.”
Eaton travels in a two-hour radius to help others organize their spaces.
“I might be in Indianapolis one day, South Bend the next, and then Fort Wayne. So many of my clients don’t have time to organize their homes or businesses. They have families and other responsibilities. They feel extra stress when they survey the areas that are cluttered and unmanageable. My business does more than organizing, I help give people back their peace of mind.”
Right now, it is her busy season.
“People want their houses organized at spring cleaning time. This is my busiest time of year. I’m fully booked.”
Eaton gets up and gets her daughters off to school. Then she might pick up her helpers, if it’s a big job.
“Some jobs I do alone. I’ve met the client ahead of time and assessed their needs. When I get there, I will discuss with them what I intend to accomplish that
day. Some clients work alongside me. Others may be at work themselves and I’m doing the organizing myself. A full workday at the client’s home is six hours. It may take from 20 minutes to a couple hours to get there. Some jobs can be done in one day. Some take longer.”
She starts by decluttering.
“I group things together. I may come up with a rack or organizing system. Clothes go in closets, storage bins or dressers. I want things not only to look tidy, but pretty.”
Eaton also does work for her clients when she gets home.
“I take measurements at their home and order items online that are space savers, such as canisters and containers to store things.
“I do a ton of garages. Each space has different needs, and each family has different budgets. We work within their own framework.”
Yes, Eaton helps hoarders become more organized.
“The question is: Do they really want my help? With a hoarder, it’s all about control. When we’re fin-
WATER SOFTENER RENTALS
ished, we may not have a perfectly organized space, but we’ll have a better organized environment.”
Mud2Lotus is a catchy name.
“The lotus starts out in a muddy, unkempt environment, but as it grows, it becomes a beautiful flower. I work to make environments not only manageable but beautiful.”
Eaton and her husband, Trey, have two daughters. Trey coaches
“Every client is different. When I meet with them, we work on choosing their unique adventure. When we are finished, lives and outlooks are transformed, and they have their peace of mind restored.”
Rochester-based songwriter/ poet Dylan Lloyd will read from his debut collection of poems, “Coffee Walk Poetry,” at Fulton County Public Library Rochester Branch from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 25, in Meeting Room B. The book reached No. 1 on Amazon’s Inspirational Poetry bestseller list and was among the top five in the American Poetry category. As suggested by its title, “Coffee Walk Poetry” was inspired by Lloyd’s regular walks to and from a Starbucks during the pandemic. “I began thinking of all I felt compelled to say as related to my life, COVID-19 and feeling defeated during so much sadness and death,” he wrote. In response,
In a photo cutline for the Rochester High School softball team in the April 15 edition, Addisyn Banks’ name was misspelled.
Lloyd composed poems that “breathed freedom into my soul” and reminded him “why this life is so precious.”
The book reached No. 1 on Amazon’s Inspirational Poetry bestseller list and was among the top five in the American Poetry category.
Lloyd is also a singer-songwriter signed to Bella Figura Music. His work has been featured on hit shows such as “Love is Blind” and “Temptation Island,” and he has a Top 30 single on the iTunes U.S. Pop Charts. Lloyd is a member of the Moraine Valley Hall of Fame with over 100,000 followers on TikTok.
Coffee and other refreshments and snacks will be provided. FCPL Rochester branch is located at 312 W. Seventh St., Rochester. For more information, contact FCPL Literacy Director David Hazledine at (574) 223-1008 or dhazledine@fulco.lib.in.us.
MALLORY EATON
basketball at Tippecanoe Valley and Mallory Eaton coaches volleyball. In 2025 she earned the title of Secondary P.E. Teacher of the Year.
Let’s Study The Bible -
(Read Luke 18:9-17)
By THE REV. RON PURKEY
“The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican: (Luke 18:11).
INSIGHT: Throughout his public ministry, Jesus exposed the self-righteousness and unbelief of the Pharisees (see Luke 11:39–54). He pictured them as debtors too bankrupt to pay what they owed God (Luke 7:40–50), guests fighting for the best seats (Luke 14:7–14), and sons proud of their obedience but unconcerned about the needs of others (Luke 15:25–32). The sad thing is the Pharisees were completely deluded and thought they were right and Jesus was wrong. This is illustrated in this parable.
First, the Pharisee was deluded about prayer. He prayed
‘The Little
Continued from page 1
Among the cast this year is senior Seanna Gudas, who plays Ariel.
She’s acted since fifth grade.
“I’m excited to play this role,” said Gudas. “It’s been a lot of fun so far, and I think it is a good show for my senior year.”
Fellow senior Jesse Smith plays King Triton. It’s one of the largest roles he’s had.
Smith said he’s acted for four years due to the “community” in RHS Tri-Epsilon.
“Some of my fondest memories have come from being in these four walls, and I think our directors are very inspiring,” he said.
“The Little Mermaid” Cast List
Ariel - Seanna Gudas
Prince Eric - Brody Simons
Sebastian - Alex Porterfield
King Triton - Jesse Smith
Flounder - Riley Vessels
Scuttle - Karsyn Baker
with himself and told God (and anybody else listening) how good he was. The Pharisees used prayer as a means of getting public recognition and not as a spiritual exercise to glorify God (Matthew 6:5; 23:14).
Second, he was deluded about himself. He thought he was accepted by God because of what he did or what he did not do. The Jews were required to fast only once a year, on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:29), but he fasted twice a week. He tithed everything that came into his possession, even the tiny herbs from his garden (Matthew 23:23).
Third, he was deluded about the publican who was also in the temple praying. The Pharisee thought that the publican was a great sinner, but the publican went home justified by God while the proud Pharisee went home only self-satisfied. To be “justified” means to be declared righteous by God on the basis of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross (Romans 3:19–4:25).
Fourth, the publican repeatedly smote his breast and cried for mercy. He knew where his greatest problem was, and he called to God for mercy. The publican knew the big-
Ursula - Sienna King
Flotsam - Bradley McCray
Jetsam - Cerenity Meisner
Pilot/Chef - Kollin Williams
Grimsby - Christopher Sparks
Carlotta - Peyton Spencer
Mersisters - Sophie Beehler, Addison Coria, Mackenzie Kuhnz, Molly Leslie, Peyton Spencer and Jaide Trottier
Princesses - Sophie Beehler, Addison Coria, Mackenzie Kuhnz, Molly Leslie, Isabel Stamper and Jaide Trottier
Sailors - Angel Hayes, Sam Roe, Lexy Springer and Isabel Stamper
Gulls - Angel Hayes, Sam Roe and Wynter White
Chefs - Delilah Ashby, Angel Hayes, Rilee Lucker, Isabel Stamper and Wynter White
Sea - Evelyn Bitterling and Taylor Cox
Seahorse - Delilah Ashby
Sea Creatures - Evelyn Bitterling, Taylor Cox, Angel Hayes, Rilee
ness of his sins, but the Pharisee was blissfully ignorant of his own heart. The Pharisee’s pride condemned him, but the publican’s humble faith saved him (see Luke 14:11 and Isaiah 57:15). It is the prodigal son and elder brother over again (Luke 15:11-32).
Fifth, in contrast to the proud Pharisee are the children who were brought to Jesus (Luke 18:15–17). It was customary for the Jews to bring little children to the rabbis to receive their special blessing, so it is strange that the disciples would stand in the way. Perhaps they thought Jesus was weary and needed rest, or they may have decided that he was not really interested in children. How wrong they were!
Sixth, Jesus wants us to be childlike but not childish. An unspoiled child illustrates humility, faith and dependence. The only way to enter God’s kingdom is to become like a child and be born again (John 3). If the proud Pharisee had become like a child, he too would have gone home justified.
Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines free at rcpbibleoutlines. com. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.
Lucker, Sam Roe, Lexy Springer, Jesse Smith, Isabel Stamper, Wynter White and Kollin Williams
Storm - Delilah Ashby, Lexy Springer, Rilee Lucker and Wynter White
Lagoon fireflies - Delilah Ashby, Sol Fulton, Jaser Garrett, Angel Hayes, Rilee Lucker, Sam Roe, Lexy Springer, Jesse Smith, Wynter White and Kollin Williams.
“The Little Mermaid” Backstage Crew
Serenity Ashby, Zoey Binion, Kaine Blackburn, Trynyti Cicatko, Richelle Fogelsanger, Grace Fowler, Sol Fulton, Jaser Garrett, Riley Harding, Averie Messimore, Jacob Pierce, Gavin Sutton and Wade Wheadon.
“The Little Mermaid” Tech Crew
Tracks - Emma Beck
Spotlight - Kaydence Bradley
Lights - Willow Kamplain
Sound - Chloe Wheadon
R.T. Roberts Sr. Accomplished Harmonica Player
R.T. Roberts Sr., 94, Rochester, was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away at 6:34 a.m. Thursday, April 16, 2026, at his residence.
On Aug. 6, 1931, R.T. was born in Stuttgart, Ark., to John Arthur and Caroline (Miller) Carroll Roberts. Growing up, he shared his childhood as one of nine children.
R.T. ROBERTS SR.
R.T. and Claudia Welton were married on Aug. 6, 1952, but later divorced. From their union came a beautiful family of 11 children. The family tree continued to grow with a legacy of three more generations.
As a laborer, R.T. worked with U.S. Steel in Gary for 25+ years. Over the years, he enjoyed tending to over 40 acres of land that produced bountiful harvests of various vegetables, fruit and annuals of all types. Among his favorites were cucumbers, okra, squash, corn and watermelon. He held great love for all animals.
R.T. cherished his time with his family and was often referred to as “Papa Smurf.” Listening to music, dancing and junking for treasures were favorite pastimes. He was an accomplished harmonica player.
Left to cherish R.T.’s memory are his loving children, including four daughters, Denise (Ivy) Joryner, Evansville, Claudette M. Roberts, Delong, Annette (Robert) Ruthridge, Michigan City, and Beatrice Roberts, Kings Lake; four sons, R.T. (Betty) Roberts, Jr., Rochester, Nathan Roberts, North Dakota, and John Roberts and Justin Roberts, both of Evansville; four sisters, Florence Pittman, Fannie Hill, Nancy Wofford and Laura Thomas; one brother, Miles Carroll; a daughter-in-law, Heather, Culver; 75 grandchildren; 140 great-grandchildren; and 80 great-great-grandchildren.
Preceding R.T. in death were his parents; a daughter, Sylvia Clark; sons, William and Daniel Roberts; a sister, Pearl Williams; brothers, R.B. Ware and Herman Carroll.
A celebration of the life of R.T. Roberts, Sr. will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 25, at Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 W. 18th St., Rochester. Pastor Bishop Belk will officiate. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service. Interment will be in the Monterey IOOF Cemetery.
Reta R. Groves
Reta R. Groves, 88, Yellow Creek Lake, died Saturday, April 11, 2026, at her daughter’s residence.
She was born on July 28, 1937. On Nov. 30, 1958, she married James R. Groves; who preceded her in death April 5, 2018.
She is survived by her daughter, Carolyn Groves, Claypool; one grandson; and two sisters, Toni Coplen, Akron, and Merry (John) Tucker, Warsaw.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Ronnie; and a brother-in-law, Chuck Coplen.
A private family graveside service will be held at Graceland Cemetery, Claypool.
Arrangements have been entrusted to King Memorial Home, 101 N. Tucker St., Mentone.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Kosciusko County Historical Society, P.O. Box 1071, Warsaw, IN 46581-1071 (memo: Museum), or to the Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko, P.O. Box 1906 Warsaw, IN 46581.
Troy L. Tyler
Troy L. Tyler, 60, Plymouth and formerly of Rochester, died at 9:10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025.
He was born Feb. 4, 1965.
Lucinda Sue Rudd
Former Rochester Sentinel And South Bend Tribune Carrier
Lucinda Sue Rudd, Rochester, passed away at 4:01 p.m. Monday, April 13, 2026, surrounded by her family at home following an extended illness.
On June 16, 1949, Lucinda was born in Rochester to Harry Ray and Elsie Etta Musselman Rush. Her childhood years were shared with her sister, Carla and brother, Kevin. Sharing nearly 60 years together, Lucinda was joined in marriage to her husband, Roy Gene Rudd, on Nov. 12, 1966, at the First Baptist Church in Rochester. Immediately, Lucinda joined Roy in North Dakota while he served in the United States Air Force. From their union came two handsome sons, Troy and Rodney. Over the years, the family tree continued to grow with the added blessings of two more generations.
In the early years, Lucinda faithfully delivered the Rochester Sentinel and The South Bend Tribune from her Jeep on the motor route. Later as an entrepreneur, Lucinda owned and operated the Candy Barn and later the Family Pantry in Rochester. When she was not hard at work away from home, Lucinda would be found at home planting beautiful mums each year and decorating the seasons - especially Christmas and Halloween.
At home, Lucinda enjoyed watching the wildlife that surrounded her home nestled in the woods, on a sprawling 55 acres, like a wildlife sanctuary. Frequent visitors were deer, fox and turkey. She loved feeding the hummingbirds.
Left to cherish Lucinda’s memory are husband, Roy; two sons, Troy and Rodney (Shari) Rudd, all of Rochester; three grandchildren, Tyler Rudd, Sierra (Chase) Jones and Kailey Rudd; two great-grandchildren, Briar and Oaklynn; and one great-grandson due to arrive next month.
Preceding her in death were her parents, Harry and Elsie Musselman Rush; sister, Carla Ringler; and her brother, Kevin Rush.
Private family services will be held.
Interment will be in the Rochester IOOF Cemetery, with Chaplain Jeremy Losier officiating.
Good Family Funeral Home has been entrusted with providing services.
Electronic expressions of sympathy may be made to her family at goodfamilyfh.com.
Weston Owen Good Weston
Owen Good, 38, Kewanna, died Saturday, April 4, 2026.
He was born Aug. 4, 1987.
He is survived by his parents, Dean and Gwen Good; his brother, Wyatt A. Good; the mother of his children, Caitlin Good; his daughters, Freya Jay Good and Ripley Ruth Good; one niece and nephew; his former sister-in-law, Courtney Good; his chosen brother, Josh Workman; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Donald O. Good and Mary M. Good; his aunt, Debbie Good; his maternal grandparents, Rolla and Grace Smith; six uncles, Wilburn Smith, Robert Smith, James Smith, Howard Smith, Roger Smith and Roy Smith; and one aunt, Thelma Hensley.
Private family services will be held.
The Good Family Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements. Charlie F. Hasnerl will officiate. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Bruce Lake Conservancy District, 829 N. 675 E. Kewanna, IN 46939 or Culver Cavs Fishing Club, 701 School St., Culver, IN 46511.
Online expressions of sympathy may be made to goodfamilyfh.com.
May events at Akron Carnegie Public Library
He is survived by his father, Jimmie Tyler, Rochester; siblings, Jimmie Lee (Mary Pat Young) Tyler Jr., Nokomis, Fla., Diana Dawn (Jan) Bryant and Lisa Lenee (Thad) Wyman, both of Opelika, Ala.; several nieces and nephews; and his domestic short-haired cat, Fox.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Tyler Bachman, on Nov. 11, 2025; and his grandparents.
A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, May 1, at the Rochester IOOF Cemetery. The Fulton County Veterans Honor Guard and the United States Navy will accord military honors. Good Family Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.
Akron Carnegie Public Library will provide the following programs in April. The library is located at 205 E. Rochester St., Akron. Call (574) 893-4113, or visit akron.lib.in.us with any questions.
Board Of Trustees Meeting
The Akron Public Library Board of Trustees will meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 5, in the library’s community room.
Adult Readers Book Club
Jaslynn Renee Harner
Holly and Cassidy Harner, Argos, are the parents of a daughter, Jaslynn Renee, born at 9:14 a.m. Tuesday, April 7, in Woodlawn Health. She weighed 8 pounds, 7 ounces, and was 20 inches long. She joins siblings Luca, 11, and Declan, 6.
Maternal grandparents are Frank and Glendora Linderman, Argos.
Paternal grandparents are Lawrence and Amy Harner, Plymouth.
Adult Readers Book Club at 5 p.m.Thursday, May 7. This club is for you to make new friends and discover new books. You choose the book and share what you read. This program meets once a month for one hour.
Baby & Me Story Time
Cultivate a love of reading in your little one while building vocabulary and fine motor skills. This program is designed for children 0-2 years old. Join each week at 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays for a half-hour of songs, rhymes, stories and cuddles with your child. The last day for this class will be Tuesday, May 12. Baby & Me will reconvene in September.
Preschool Story Hour
Join ACPL’s Preschool Story Hour “Outstanding Opposites,” at 10 a.m Wednesdays. Children ages 3-6 years of age will learn all about opposites through singing, dancing, reading, crafting and more. The last day for Preschool Story Hour is Wednesday, May 13.Look for Story Hour to begin
again in the fall. Lego Club
Note the date change due to Memorial Day. Elementary kids can let their imagination run wild as they create and explore with Legos and Snap Circuits. This program begins at 4 p.m. Monday, May 18, and lasts approximately one hour. Kids can create something uniquely their own that tells a story, all the while building confidence through creativity and friendship. This will be the last class for Lego Club until August.
The Chain Gang
The Chain Gang will meet at 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 19, for those that enjoy crocheting, knitting, sewing or needlepoint and want to create with their own hands. Bring your materials and work alongside others who enjoy this hobby. Open to all skill levels, from beginners to pro.
Ya Amplified
Young adults in middle and high school are welcome to attend this program at 4 p.m. Wednesday, May 20. The program runs the third Wednesday of the month. Rotating between cooking, crafting and games, ACPL engages this age group through a variety of activities. This month will feature cooking with Nicole. Sign-up is required. This will be the last class until fall, as the Summer Reading Program begins in June. Library Closed
The library will be closed Monday, May 25, in observance of MeContinued on page 5
LUCINDA SUE RUDD
RETA R. GROVES
TROY L. TYLER
WESTON OWEN GOOD
The following are accidents and incidents investigated by the Rochester Police Department during the past week: Accidents
6:10 p.m. Sunday, April 19, 2395
Main St., Rochester. Driver: Justin A. Myers, 45, Rochester. Myers’ vehicle hit another and left the scene of the accident.
12:03 a.m. Sunday, April 19, 1088 W. 18th St., Rochester. Driver: Unknown. Someone reported a vehicle with an unknown driver hit a post at his home and left.
4:06 p.m. Saturday, April 18, 901 Main St., Rochester. Driver: Leonard Ervin Easterly III, no age listed, Rochester. Easterly’s vehicle hit a building. He said the vehicle died as he was pulling into the business.
12:02 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, Main Street and West 18th Street, Rochester. Drivers: Emily Lee, no age listed, Rochester; and Patrick L. Dimmock, no age listed, Culver. Dimmock said Lee’s vehicle hit the back of his.
3:08 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, West Fifth Street and Pontiac Street, Rochester. Driver: Rick A. Figlio, no age listed, Rochester. Figlio reported he hit a parked vehicle.
8:33 a.m. Tuesday, April 14, 2395 Main St., Rochester. Driver: Lisa M. Morace, no age listed, Rochester. Morace reported her vehicle had been hit sometime earlier. She wasn’t sure if it was at Walmart.
Circuit Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Circuit Court, with Judge Arthur Christopher Lee presiding:
Jefferson Capital Systems LLC v. Haley Dille, Akron, $19,261.41 Culver-Union Ambulance Service v. George Alvarado, Rochester, $1,325.85
Plenary
Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance, as subrogee of Larry Hunter, Akron, v. Keith Wright, North Manchester, $15,358.66
Karys Pritchard, Plymouth, v. Lakota Filson, Rochester, complaint for partition of real estate
Vincent Haynes, no address listed, v. Mark Rogers, Kewanna, complaint for partition of real estate
Mortgage Foreclosure
CrossCountry Mortgage v. Steven Mundy, Rochester, $109,250 Superior Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Superior Court, with Judge Gregory L. Heller presiding: Plenary
Richard O’Neill, no address listed, v. Fulton County Area Planning Commission and Data Center Ordinance Review Committee, Rochester — Declaratory judgment, injunctive relief
Mortgage Foreclosure
Wells Fargo Bank N.A. v. Jamie Lichtenbarger, Rochester, $3,253.07
Traffic Violations
The following fines and levies were paid in Fulton County courts: Driving while suspended Mikel Foreman, Macy, $164.50; Evan Witte, Wilkinson, $164; Corbin Mason, Winamac, $164.50; Tony Scott, Delong $164.50
Failure of occupant to use a safety belt — Daniel Parra, Rochester, $25; Jovokhir Rakhmonov, Langhorne, Pa., $25
5:52 a.m. Monday, April 13, East Ninth Street and Ewing Road, Rochester. Driver: Jeff. A. Maggart, no age listed, Akron. Maggart’s vehicle hit a deer.
Incidents
2:47 p.m. Sunday, April 19, 100 McDonald Drive, Rochester. Police responded to a custody issue.
2:19 p.m. Sunday, April 19, 300 block of Main Street, Rochester. A man reported harassment from his ex-wife.
7:08 a.m. Sunday, April 19, 700 block of East Fourth Street, Rochester. Someone reported another person had come on their property and asked police to look at camera footage.
4:37 p.m. Saturday, April 18, 1800 block of West Side Road, Rochester. A man reported his ex-wife was following him.
2:32 p.m. Saturday, April 18, 2100 block of Peace Tree Village, Rochester. A man was trespassed from Runnings for harassing staff.
4:09 a.m. Saturday, April 18, Main Street and McDonald Drive, Rochester. A person was reported as suspicious due to them walking while wearing dark clothing.
7:38 p.m. Friday, April 17, 700 block of East Fourth Street, Rochester. Police responded to a report of a fight.
4:56 p.m. Friday, April 17, 1100 block of Rochester Boulevard, Rochester. A caller reported protective
Failure to change lanes for authorized emergency vehicle, fails to move over one lane — Dan Mixer, Elk Rapids, Mich., $165 Learner’s permit violation, speeding — Juan Lopez, Elkhart, $189.50
Operating a motor vehicle with a false plate; plate belongs to another vehicle — Edwin Flores, Logansport, $164.50
Speeding — Kathleen Moreillon, McCordsville, $154.50; Laurisa Lesure, Mishawaka, $175; Leah Johnston, Monticello, $164.50; Younghee Lee, Berrien Springs, Mich., $175; Brenda Adams, Carmel, $154.50; Vincent Andriacco, Cincinnati, Ohio, $164.50; Francisco Monte, Fishers, $154.50; Austin Sheldon, Culver, $154.50; Jesse Monceaux, Lowell, Mich., $164.50; Lauren Trim, Granger, $164.50; Krista Menyard, South Bend, $154.50; James Brent, Corydon, $164.50; Abigail Gaines, Granger, $164.50, Emma Vollmer, Rochester, $154.50; Scott Monson, Maitland, Fla., $164.50; Bailey Lutz, Greenwood, $164.50; Todd Messick, Plymouth, $154.50; Dawson Kieft, Elkhart, $175; Carissa Tidwell, Winamac, $164.50; Heather Imel, Indianapolis, $154.50; Kassidi
order violations.
4:05 p.m. Friday, April 17, 800 block of Jefferson Street, Rochester. A caller reported theft of her keys.
3:36 p.m. Friday, April 17, 1600 block of Madison Street, Rochester. A caller said a woman tried to get into his sister’s apartment. He said he’s working on getting a protective order against the woman.
11:06 p.m. Thursday, April 16, 2100 block of Southway 31, Rochester. A representative from the Rochester Motel reported a fight in the parking lot with a male not allowing the female to leave.
7:02 p.m. Thursday, April 16, Monroe Street and East 14th Street, Rochester. A person reported animal cruelty after hearing a dog yelping.
2:36 p.m. Thursday, April 16, 1200 block of Franklin Street, Rochester. A needle was found in the alley.
2:05 p.m. Thursday, April 16, 1200 block of Pontiac Street, Rochester. A person reported a large dog in their yard.
12:55 a.m. Thursday, April 16, 1700 block of Bancroft Avenue, Rochester. A person called about a domestic disturbance.
9:36 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, 500 block of East 14th Street, Rochester. A person wanted to document vandalism by tenants after finding holes in the cement.
3:42 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, 1500 block of Main Street, Rochester. A person requested to speak with an
Puthoff, Cincinnati, Ohio, $154.50; Frank Kendrick, Fishers, $164.50; Shalee Johnson, Greenfield, $175; Brian Cate, Carmel, $154.50; David Kail, Lebanon, $164.50; Henry James, Elkhart, $164.50; Dorian Wilson, Anderson, $154.50
Marriage
Licenses
The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Fulton County clerk of the court: Davis-Huber
Wyatt Davis, 24, Naperville, Ill., and Delaney Huber, 24, Naperville, Ill.
Paxton-Foerg
Garrett Paxton, 29, Silver Lake, and Allison Foerg, 25, Logansport.
Monical-Hanson
Bronson Monical, 36, Kewanna, and Cassandra Hanson, 32, Kewanna.
Johns-Rudd
Donald Johns, 69, Rochester, and Vickie Rudd, 74, Rochester. Wilson-Winegardner
James Wilson, 85, Rochester, and Deborah Winegardner, 68, Argos.
Marriage
Dissolutions
The following couple has filed for a marriage dissolution in Fulton County courts:
Cox — Jamie Cox, Rochester, and Jordan Cox, Plymouth. With minor children.
officer in reference to options about a man who had been staying at the residence.
2:09 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, 500 block of East Ninth Street, Rochester. A representative from Lake City Bank reported a woman committing a fraud.
1:59 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, 2500 block of Country Club Drive South, Rochester. Officers observed roof damage to the Elks’ Lodge possibly after the storms.
1:21 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, 1100 block of Park Road, Rochester.
A person requested to speak with officers in reference to an eviction notice.
1:12 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, 1400 block of Monroe Street, Rochester. A person reported the sliding doors on their garage being broken.
10:45 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, East 12th Street and Elm Street, Rochester. A truck was blocking a fire hydrant.
6:31 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, 2300 block of Main Street, Rochester. Officers gave a man a courtesy transport to Walmart.
4:06 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, 600 block of East Ninth Street, Rochester. A man was trespassed from the area of the Rochester Post Office for mushroom hunting on private property.
3:17 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, Madison Street and East 13th Street, Rochester. A Pom dog was barking at people in the area.
10:42 a.m. Tuesday, April 14, 1400 block of Wabash Avenue, Rochester. A neighbor complained about a dog in the neighborhood pooping in their yard.
10:13 p.m. Monday, April 13, 1200 block of Jackson Boulevard, Rochester. A person reported that someone had broke into their garage.
May events
Continued from page 4
morial Day. Adult Crafty Corner
Join Adult Crafty Corner at 4 or 6 p.m. Thursday, May 28. Participants will make “clothespin fairies.” All supplies are provided. Sign-up is required by Thursday, May 21.
Second Seasons Fitness Fitness Awareness is held at 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Join for chair exercises on both days. The goal is to give adults a safe, convenient and effective way to build stamina, improve flexibility and balance while having fun moving their bodies.
Bird Watching
During May, bird watching continues as spring gets into full swing. Observe birds feeding and building nests at the library. Bird-watching journals, binoculars and bird identification books will be available. Come sit for a spell and see all the wonders of spring from the comfortable viewing area.
Adventure Backpacks
In conjunction with the Indiana State Parks, patrons who have a valid library card in good standing may check out “Ad-
7:33 p.m. Monday, April 13, 1400 block of Washington Street, Rochester. A vehicle was vandalized.
7:17 p.m. Monday, April 13, 1400 block of East Ninth Street, Rochester. A representative with Woodlawn Hospital reported a sexual assault for a patient.
7:16 p.m. Monday, April 13, 1600 block of Main Street, Rochester. A person reported an unlocked door and the sign saying open at Enyart’s Hardware, but no one was inside.
6:35 p.m. Monday, April 13, 300 block of Rochester Crossing Drive, Rochester. A person was trespassed from Pilot Travel Center and needed to get items out of their vehicle.
5:45 p.m. Monday, April 13, Mitchell Drive and Ewing Road, Rochester. A person’s vehicle broke down. The driver wanted to let the homeowners know that they would tow their vehicle tomorrow, but could not contact them.
4:41 p.m. Monday, April 13, 500 block of Main Street, Rochester. A representative from First Source Bank reported a male walking around videotaping the area.
1:35 p.m. Monday, April 13, 300 block of Rochester Crossing Drive, Rochester. The store manager at Pilot Travel Center requested a male be trespassed after being told by staff to leave.
12:55 p.m. Monday, April 13, 200 block of East Ninth Street, Rochester. A representative from Flagstar Bank reported a person walking around the building and recording.
9:35 a.m. Monday, April 13, 1215 Pontiac St., Rochester. A person reported drug trash.
9:16 a.m. Monday, April 13, 300 block of Main Street, Rochester. A person reported losing their company cell phone.
venture Backpack.” It provides gate admission to any Indiana state park. Explore at your leisure through hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, interpretive programs, bird watching and nature centers. Each backpack includes binoculars, a Bird Watching for Beginners guide, a flashlight, compass, first-aid kit, and an Indiana Recreation Guide, and may be checked out for one week.
Check out the new Indiana State Museum Library Pass. With this pass, you can enjoy free general admission for four people to Indiana State Museum and it’s 12 historic sites, as well as discounted parking. Some rules and restrictions apply.
1971
The following people were booked into the Fulton County Jail during the past week:
April 19 - Justin Allen Myers, 45, 1417 Madison St., Rochester, booked for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated and leaving the scene of a property damage crash. Released on his own recognizance.
April 19 - Tiffani Noel Collins, 39, 705 E. Fourth St., Lot 22, Rochester, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated and possession of marijuana/hashish/hash oil/salvia. Released on her own recognizance.
April 19 - Sarah Jean Helt, 28, 2872 N. 400W, Rochester, booked for possession of cocaine or a narcotic drug and possession of marijuana/hashish/ hash oil/salvia. Bond: $500 cash or $2,500 surety.
April 18 - Timothy A. Binion, 48, 508 N. Lake St., Apartment 5, Warsaw, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated with a prior conviction. Bond: $2,500 surety or $500 cash.
April 17 - Jorge A. Valdez Sigala, 52, 1310 Cedarbrook Court, Apartment B, Goshen, booked for a hold for Marion County. No bond listed.
April 17 - Ayden Lashawndre Kent, 20, 617 W. Indiana Ave., South Bend, booked for possession of marijuana/hashish/hash oil/salvia and possession of a machine gun without a license. Bond: $7,500 surety or $1,000 cash.
April 17 - Michael Wayne Hartman III, 19, 705 E. Fourth St., Lot 64, Rochester, booked for domestic battery -simple assault. Bond: $150 cash.
April 17 - Randy Daniel Franz Jr., 19, 705 E. Fourth St., Lot 1, Rochester, booked for domestic battery - simple as-
sault. Bond: $150 cash.
April 17 - Jayda Lynn Barnes, 19, 705 E. Fourth St., Lot 1, Rochester, booked for domestic battery - simple assault. Bond: $150 cash.
April 16 - Tyler E. Senesac, 39, 4405 N. 875W, Royal Center, booked for a warrant arrest for child molesting/sexual misconduct/incest. Bond: $50,000 surety.
April 16 - Thomas Gerald Potter Jr., 27, booked for battery committed with deadly weapon - felony, leaving the scene of a serious bodily injury crash, possession of marijuana/hash oil/ hashish/salvia and possession of methamphetamine. Bond: $7,500 surety or $1,000 cash.
April 16 - Elijah Montez Rice, 21, 1729 Bancroft Ave., Apartment 2B, Rochester, booked for domestic battery. No bond.
April 15 - Thomas Seth Vernon, 40, 615 S. CR 850W, Logansport, booked for invasion of privacy. No bond.
April 15 - Arthur A. Rodriguez, 39, 1626 Davis Ave., Whiting, booked for a warrant arrest for failure to appear for driving while suspended. Bond: $150 cash.
April 15 - Matthew Scott Brass, 36, 1312 College Ave., Rochester, booked for a warrant arrest for dealing/possession of methamphetamine. Bond: $10,000 surety or $1,000 surety.
April 15 - Anais E. Ford, 35, 121 S. Barton St., New Buffalo, Mich., booked for a warrant arrest for failure to appear for driving while suspended. Bond: $150 cash.
April 15 - Kayla Brianne Graham, 33, 2097 E. Sycamore Drive, Rochester, booked for criminal trespass and pos-
session of stolen property. Released on her own recognizance.
April 15 - Jesse Arthur Mitchell, 38, 1402 1/2 Franklin St., Apartment 1, Michigan City, booked for a warrant arrest for failure to appear for operating while never licensed. Bond: $150 cash.
April 15 - Destiny Denise Spears, 27, 422 Congress St., Indianapolis, booked for a warrant arrest for failure to appear for driving while suspended. Bond: $500 cash.
April 15 - Matthew Michael Lemarr, 47, 210 W. William Howard Drive, North Judson, booked for possession of marijuana, possession of a Schedule I controlled substance and possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon. Bond: $1,000 surety or $7,500 cash.
April 13 - Richard Lawrence Davis, 40, 11531 10th Road, Plymouth, booked for a warrant arrest for failure to appear for criminal trespass. Bond: $200 cash.
April 13 - Kayla Marie Freeland, 40, 2964 Hickory Lane, Rochester, booked for a warrant arrest for dealing methamphetamine. Bond: $10,000 surety or $3,000 surety.
April 13 - Luis E. Jimenez, 45, 100 E. Sycamore St., Macy, booked for possession of methamphetamine and pos-
session of paraphernalia. Bond: $2,500 surety or $500 cash.
April 13 - Stacey Lynn Spencer, 50, 1028 Jefferson St., Rochester, booked for domestic battery and neglect of a dependent/child violations. Bond: $7,500 surety or $1,000 surety.
April 13 - Matthew A. Thomas, 45, 1320 Smith St., Apartment 404, Logansport, booked for driving while suspended with a prior suspension within 10 years. Released on his own recognizance.
The following are accidents and incidents investigated by the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office during the past week:
Accidents
11:55 p.m. Friday, April 17, North US 31 and West 18th Street, Rochester. Driver: Unknown. A vehicle wrecked in the median.
9:05 p.m. Friday, April 17, North SR 25 and East CR 300N, Rochester. Driver: Jerry Hudson, 70, Warsaw. Hudson’s vehicle hit a deer.
5:49 p.m. Thursday, April 16, 702 N.Wright St., Fulton. Driver: Unknown. A person reported someone’s vehicle hit the side of a house.
11:35 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, North US 31 and West SR 110, Argos. Drivers: Alisha Sells, 42, Rochester; and Jeri-Lynn Bailey, 57, Mackinac Island, Mich. Sells’ and Bailey’s vehicles collided.
4:58 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, South SR 17 and South CR 750W, Kewanna. Driver: Dale Herrold, 66, Kewanna. Herrold’s vehicle hit a deer.
5:53 a.m. Tuesday, April 14, SR 25 and North CR 500E, Rochester. Driver: Luca J. Barrientes, 18, Rochester. Barrientes’ vehicle went into a ditch.
7:12 a.m. Monday, April 13, West SR 14 and South CR 650W, Rochester.
Driver: Jordan T. Nuest, 31, Star City. Nuest’s vehicle hit a deer.
Incidents
5:19 p.m. Sunday, April 19, 7900 block of West SR 114, Akron. Something was on fire near a trailer.
4:36 p.m. Sunday, April 19, 2200 block of South CR 1600E, Akron. A person reported a possible break-in.
12:26 p.m. Sunday, April 19, 700 block of North SR 19, Akron. A person was advised of options regarding ownership of a pig.
12:23 p.m. Sunday, April 19, 1300 block of East CR 550N, Rochester. Police were contacted over a visitation issue.
11:07 a.m. Sunday, April 19, 4600 block of Bowen Street, Rochester. A person had a question about medication.
7:06 p.m. Saturday, April 18, 7200
block of East SR 14, Akron. A vehicle fire was reported.
4:53 p.m. Saturday, April 18, 4200 block of North CR 375W, Rochester. A person reported social media harassment.
3:51 p.m. Saturday, April 18, 2006 Sweetgum Road, Rochester. A person had an eviction question.
1:06 a.m. Saturday, April 18, 1500 block of North CR 400W, Rochester. A tree and power lines were down in the roadway.
11:24 p.m. Friday, April 17, North CR 850W and West SR 14, Kewanna. An injured deer was reported.
4:33 p.m. Friday, April 17, West CR 100S and South CR 200W, Rochester. Police responded to a disabled vehicle report.
2:05 p.m. Friday, April 17, 700 block of Parkway Lane, Rochester. A break-in was reported to police.
10:38 a.m. Friday, April 17, 1100 block of North CR 400W, Rochester. Two loose dogs were reported.
5:48 a.m. Friday, April 17, 2300 block of Big Hills Road, Rochester. A person reported a light shining in the area.
9:25 p.m. Thursday, April 16, 4800 block of Boicourt, Rochester. A person reported their girlfriend’s ex tried to hit them with a car.
6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 16, 4800 block of Boicourt, Rochester. A person called wanting a man trespassed from the property.
5:55 p.m. Thursday, April 16, South CR 700E and East CR 250S, Akron. A tree was down across the roadway.
1:21 p.m. Thursday, April 16, 7200 block of East SR 14, Akron. A person found a license plate in their yard.
12:34 p.m. Thursday, April 16, 2100 block of South CR 1000W, Kewanna. Continued on page 7
KAYLA MARIE FREELAND
STACEY LYNN SPENCER
MATTHEW A. THOMAS
Continued from page 6 light shining into their home.
A person reported a man on their property when he did not have permission to be there.
8:52 a.m. Thursday, April 16, 6400 block of North Sunset Boulevard, Macy. A person reported potential animal abuse.
3:29 a.m. Thursday, April 16, 4400 block of Boicourt, Rochester. A person reported men outside the caller’s home by the river, talking loudly.
1:24 a.m. Thursday, April 16, 2100 block of Heritage Drive, Rochester. A caller reported a possibly sick cat.
10:17 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, 8000 block of West Olson Road, Rochester. A caller reported a huge work
9:20 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, 6400 block of South Sunset Boulevard, Macy. A caller reported hearing a woman telling a man to stop threatening her.
8:59 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, 300 block of North CR 1000W, Kewanna. A person reported a woman showing up to the caller’s residence to talk to their dog through the front door.
8:38 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, 40 block of East CR 50N, Rochester. A representative from New Life Church reported a vehicle parked in the parking lot for two days with no license plate.
7:19 p.m. Wednesday, April 15,
North US 31 and West 13th Street, Rochester. A person reported having vehicle issues.
4:33 p.m. Wednesday, April 15, 2000 block of Sweetgum Road, Rochester. A person requested to speak with a deputy in regards to a harassment claim.
7:04 a.m. Wednesday, April 15, 5700 block of North CR 175E, Rochester. A cat was in a live trap and brought to the shelter.
8:32 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, 3300 block of Wabash Avenue, Rochester. A barn fire was reported.
5:18 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, 1000 block of North CR 1200E, Akron. A person reported a sexual assault on
a child.
4:49 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, 1000 block of West CR 325S, Rochester. A person reported a man on their property after previously being trespassed.
4:43 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, East SR 14 and South CR 925E, Akron. There was a cow outside of a fence.
12:34 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, 5400 block of South Old US 31, Macy. A neighbor’s fence was on the caller’s property.
12:22 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, 1300 block of West SR 114, Fulton. Officers responded to a domestic fight.
11:49 a.m. Tuesday, April 14, South Old US 31 and East CR 650S, Macy. A
person reported a suspicious woman walking.
9:50 a.m. Tuesday, April 14, South SR 25 and East CR 400S, Rochester. A person reported a large, metal ring in the southbound lane.
6:11 p.m. Monday, April 13, 8400 block of East Division Road, Akron. A pole with lines was down across the roadway.
9:05 a.m. Monday, April 13, 7000 block of East CR 100N, Rochester. A person reported a broken garage window.
1:44 a.m. Monday, April 13, North US 31 and East CR 375N, Rochester. A vehicle was disabled due to a tire needing changed.
Rochester High School announces honor roll
Rochester High School has announced its honor roll for the third grading period of the 20252026 school year.
All A Honor Roll
The following students have received all As.
12th Grade — Grant Stephen Bailey, Olivia Marie Bailey, Madison Lynn Black, Allyson Renee Calloway, Brooklyn Jae Chandler, David Grant Clark, Matthew Dylan Crossland, Harrison Lane Dunwoody, Brayden Alan Gamble, Alexis Lorena Hernandez, Lincoln Elijah Holder, Layne Jordan Horn, Brylie Anne Kiggins.
Jonas Gray Kiser, Carter Ryan Merideth, Myrandace Rae Metz, Gavin Michael Mollencupp, Braxton Chace Norman, Carson Jeffrey Paulik, Charlotte Perry, Carlos Adriano Plascencia, Raiden Cody Andrew Putman, Jesse Edward Smith, Violet Rose Whitmer.
11th Grade — Evan Gregory Coffing, Joel Alexander Criollo, Justynah Lynn Graber, Isaac Daniel Heishman, Anne Horban, Brailyn Nicole Hunter, Willow Deann Kamplain, Sophia Grace Kouskousakis, Julissa Lopez, Bria Noelle Rensberger, Jackson Thomas Robbins, Kale Andrew Shotts, Abriella Marie St Martin, Audrey Lee Widman, Aubrey Kay Wilson.
10th Grade — Madeline Ella Bailon, Sophie Noelle Beehler, Mitchell William Clark, Elise Renee Enyart, Quinn Harper Gruss, Adison Nicole Hayes, Abbygail Jean Lowry, Grayson David Miller, Molly Marianne Moore, Reagan Jo Perry, Grant James McGlothin. Ninth Grade — Addisyn Marie Banks, Hope Elizabeth Baugh, Lyla Lynn Bowers, Alexandria Aria Cortes-Gustafson, Emma Ann Dunfee, Ali Breanne Field, Angelikah Joy Graber, Shelby Linnea Haselby, Ainsley Piper Horvath, Taylor Renee Jones, Kyleigh Madison Little, Madelyn G Maclain, Daniela Cristina Ochoa, Haylee Marie Shuck, Taya Akello Tindi, Jaide Marie Trottier, Mackenzie Marie Widman.
Eighth Grade — Lindy I Armstrong, Kera May Baugh Owens, Aubrey Lynn Bauman, Ashlyn Rae Bradley, Kenna Lee Calvert, Katelyn Cheyenne Conliff, Lucas Wayne Enyart, Allaynna Marie Hart, Hailey Mae Howell, Ella Rayne Jenkins, Piper Nicole Snyder, Makayla Rose Walley, Macie Grayce Widman, Madelyn Evie Zimpleman.
A/B Honor Roll
The following students have received A/Bs.
12th Grade — Aracely Elizabeth Aguilar, Brant William Beck, Spencer James Backus, Wade Maddux Bowers, Kadence Ann
Bradley, Kaitlyn Kay Clark, Mason Dean Conrad, Addison Marie Coria, Danika Jonee’ Dickson, Conner Joseph Dunfee, Blake Matthew Eccles, Callen Lee Ferverda, Clarence Malachi McCloud Garrett, Lillian Mae Gerald. Nevaeh Elizabeth Goodman, Seanna Lee Gudas, Dakotta Marie Guyse, Jordyn Renae Hackworth, Ellen Mae Hake, Brooklyn Marie Halterman, Drake Thomas Scot Heishman, Mason Elijah Hisey, David Ethan Hyde, Gavin Micheal Jones, Hunter Lee Kamp, Simranpreet Kaur, Ada Marie Kohls, Aiden Joseph Kough, Elijah James Kroledge, Preston Hunter Luhnow, Aubrey Linn Miller, Andres Yurel Molina, Avarie Dawn Montel, Ashton Michael Musselman.
Zakkary Bradley Parks, Laine Marie Peppler, Jack Carvey Reffett, Jesse Fletcher Roe, Evan Shane Rudd, Broderyck J Simons, Kurtis Eugene Smith, John Paul Trotier, Abbigayle Raine Tuttle, Rylee Hope Wallace, Ashlynn Nikole Luray Weyant, Chloe Layla-Isabella Wheadon, Aiden Micheal Witten, Jabez Michael Yarber.
11th Grade — Abbigail Marie Artist, Ethan Douglas Bailey, Evelyn Carla Ann Bitterling, Emah Elizabeth Bradley, Parker Michael Casper, Daniela Nicolet Cisneros, Brady Lane Coleman, Kyra Mae Doran, Jadyn Michelle Field, Jackson Dale Frounfelter, Logan Matthew Fuller, Camdyn Daryl Furnivall.
Zane Lee Galbraith, Navan Elijah Goodman, Tanner Scott Hamilton, Kylie Rae Haselby, Alexis Lee Haughs, Grant Steven Holloway, Logyn Kay Honkomp, Leandro Javier, Tanner William Krom, Ruth Mae Love, KayLea Jade McCarty, Makenna Renee McKee, Gabriella Loo Medina, Laynie Marie Migonis, Madyson Lishelle Miller, Vivian Grace Miller, Emma Lynnae Murphy, Taylor Paige Navara.
Addison Taylor Nelson, Brevin Thomas Nicholson, Kelsey Mae Pearson, Natalia Kae Pittman, Alexander Cage Porterfield, Adam Joseph Edward Reinhold, Ashe-
lynn Emma Kay Rhodes, Jenna Michele Seuferer, Christopher Allen Sparks, Rilyn Paige Strasser, Addison Averie Sutton, Cailab Martin Tyler, Riley Jade Vessels, Chloe Carter Winn, Maximus Wrigley Cy Young.
10th Grade — Alison Nicole Bauman, Trinity Melannie Baine, Sophia Lynn Baker, Colton Wayne Black, Bentley Edward Blackburn, Elizabeth Lynn Brower, Cayden Andrew Caudill, Alejandro Chapman, Kyla Breann Conley, Braxtyn Shayne Cunningham, Joshua Daniel DeSonia, Kayla Danica Doss, McKynlee Rae Dickson, Ella Jo Frounfelter, Raylee Lyen Fry, Aaron Christopher Furrow, Gretchen Ella Smith Gardner, Jaser Liam Garrett, Savannah Jane Gudas, Hagen Edward Heilstedt.
Jeffrey Taylor Howard, Abby Marie Jimenez, Tony Joseph Kiggins, Brayden Lee Kiss, Meagan Rene Kreft, Molly Kathryn Leslie, Dillynn Kole DeVane Martin, Emma Grayce Mathias, Sylvia Ann McCall, Jayla Marie Miller, Evan Michael Perdue, Gavin Kayle Pinder.
Azaria Alynn Roze Ploetz, Jay Thomas Ritter, Jocelynn Coleen Sue Shafer, Riplee McKenna Snyder, Ellie Michelle Straeter, Summer Jewel Tyler, Ariah Rayne Upp, Amara Nicole Wieringa, Linden Dean Wilburn, Kaison Dylan Williams, Aiden Dean Wilson, Derek Robert Wortley, Addisyn Mary Zimmerman.
Ninth Grade — Grant Eli Bolinger, Gavin Scott Fincher , Adalyn Marie Gonzalez, Van Grafton Kiser, Drew Patrick Lawson, Evan Lee Maroney, Memphis James Miller, Aisley Elaine Montel, Shelby May Pearson, Leonel Alonso Plascencia, Ayven Raine Porter, Lucas Mossimo Scorsone, Bailey Jade Smith, James Oscar Wells, Karsyn Christine Baker, Kala Marie Baugh Owen.
Alexis Lorraine Black, Sophia Rose Clapper, Javaunie Omari Davidson, Brooklyn Leann Gard, Brenah Mary Beth Garrison, Wesley James Gerald, Wyatt Allen Denzel Gressley, Audrey Renee
Guard, Andres Antonio Hernandez, Malaki Rome Hicks, Tanner Lee Horn.
Serenity Deen Howard, Maria Guadalupe Jimenez, Peyton N Leasure, Angel Alexander Marquez-Cisneros, Aubree Elizabeth-Donovan Martin, Blayke Logan Nelson, Mason Andrew Oliver, Conner James Overmyer, Brody James Owens, Kennedy Monroe Parry, Korrina Lynn Slocum, Ayden Joseph Smith, Chloie Michelle Tyler, Tyson Michael Wachtmann, Wade Garrett Wheadon, Camden Blair Zink.
Eighth Grade — Kylie M Aguilar, Charlotte Louise Backus, Teagan Isaiah Bailey, Piper Willow Beebe, Dawson O Beehler, Vada Mae Biernacki, Zoey Josleyn Binion, Connor Lee Bowens, Grayson Lane Bowyer, Hayley Michelle Bright, Baylee Elizabeth Brown, Rosalynne Marie Casey, Cash Paul Casper, Alyssa Michelle Clapper, Blade Cooper Miller-Ref-
fitt, Aydan Alexander Cortes-Gustafson, Korbyn Ian Crossland. Jaslyn Macie Dell, Aubrie Kay Dille, Warner Thomas Joseph Michael DuBois, Lucinda Dawn Dyson, Kinley Sue Flory, Alaina Garrison, Jordan Edgar Gonzalez, Samya Y Gray, Aliyah Guerrero, Zandra Laine Handy, Riley Kay Harding, Ayden Joseph Jaeger, Grayson Oliver Kauffman, Elijah Thomas Kreighbaum.
Sarai Lopez, Rilee Jean Lucker, Kinlee Monroe McKee, Lillian April Merideth, Asher Allen James Merrill, Kaylynn Baylee Miller, Griffin Paul Newton, Ella Sophia Papandria, Aiven James Pawski, Sera Marie Roe, Chesney Faye Samuels, Abraham James Seward, Morgan Jade Simpson, Addison Kay Smith, Kenlee Marie Smith, Parker Gabriel Smith, Alexis Eliza Springer, Elijah Eric Straeter, Gavin Levi Sutton, Jazzlyn Elaine White, Mason Christopher Woodcox.
John
Riverview Community Church to host Soul’d Out April 26
Riverview Community Church, located at 3780 SR 110, Tippecanoe, will host Soul’d Out, at 6 p.m. Sunday, April 26.
In May of 2004, in answer to God’s call on his life, Matt Rankin of Georgetown, Ohio, started a journey to find men of kindred spirits and equal yoking to partner with him in a mission to fulfill that calling by evangelizing God’s word through song.
Soul’d Out Quartet is comprised of Matt Rankin, Philip Kolb and Jason McAtee. It is a vocal group in the heritage of Southern Gospel music but is also a ministry team: “He gave some apostles, and some prophets, and some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of
the body of Christ. (Ephesians 4:11-13) Soul’d Out Quartet travels the country with a mission of evangelism and discipleship to not only win souls for Christ but also to further strengthen and encourage God’s people to be salt and light to the world and ambassadors for Christ.
Soul’d Out Quartet tours each year performing in churches, theaters, fairs and festivals, Dollywood, Silver Dollar City, and the National Quartet Convention. They have been honored by the Singing News Magazine and SoGospelnews.com. Their Concert includes a variety of styles of gospel music with a balance of new songs and older songs that seniors will know and love. Invite your family, friends and neighbors to join for this gospel
concert. There is no admission. An opportunity for a generous love offering will be given.
REDBUD TRAIL RENDEZVOUS
SAT., 10-4 SUN.
Admission: $3.00 adult 12 & older PROCEEDS HELP TO OPERATE THE MUSEUM
LOCATED ON FULTON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY GROUNDS ON U.S. 31, 4 MILES NORTH OF ROCHESTER, IND. www.fultoncountyhistory.org 574-223-4436
FOODS COOKED OVER WOOD FIRES • PROGRAMS BLANKET TRADERS & MERCHANTS TRADITIONAL CRAFT DEMONSTRATIONS
CIVIL WAR ENCAMPMENT
Festival will go on rain or shine - TO BE HELD IN LIVING HISTORY VILLAGE SOUTH OF THE ROUND BARN No dogs or animals allowed except to assist handicapped or pre-approved program animals.
Produced in cooperation with the Fulton County Tourism Commission.
SUBJECT TO CHANGE
A
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Golf Cart, Breakfast & Lunch Included
Sign up a team, sponsor a hole, or volunteer. Register by June 7th online or at Round Barn Golf Club.
SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT: rochesterparkandrecreation.com/swing-for-the-parks
CONTACT INFORMATION
Email: rochesterparkandrecreation@gmail.com
Call: Round Barn Golf Club (574) 223-5717
Call/Text: Kim Landis (574) 835-0807
Multiple events planned in county for America’s 250th
The Fulton County America
250 Committee continues gaining momentum as it works to create local events and participate in nationwide efforts celebrating the Country’s 250th birthday.
The committee has held several meetings and grown in membership with each one.
“The America 250 Fulton County Committee is super passionate, creative, and committed to putting together a list of events to celebrate the Country’s Birthday in a meaningful and fun way,” said organizers. “We look forward to building a celebration that honors our past while inspiring future generations.”
A local event currently planned is the America 250 Photo Contest.
It’s open to amateurs or professionals. Photos should represent: Patriotic Spirit, Historical Landmarks or Small Town America. Photos must be dropped off at the Rochester Branch of the Fulton County Public Library by Monday, June 1.
For more information, reach out to Erica Coffing at ecoffing@ fulco.lib.in.us.
Another local event is an America 250 Collaborative Mural.
The Fulton County Public Library is spearheading the creation of a collaborative mural made from 15 canvases. Each canvas covers an area of the
country, highlighting historical, architectural or geographic landmarks.
Twelve artists will work on the traveling mural. An open reception for the mural will be held from 4-6 p.m. on Friday, July 10, at the Fulton County Public Library.
For more information about the project or to host it, reach out to Coffing at the above email.
A nationwide 250 event is also being brought to Fulton County. America’s Block Party, is set for 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 8, in downtown Rochester. More details are to come.
The next meeting of the committee is 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 13, at The Times Theater.
At this meeting, the committee will hear updates from the team members, prepare event sheets for local events to be added to the state website and continue to plan events.
The public is welcome to attend and help out.
More information about America 250 is at in.gov/usa250/. Location information can be found on Facebook at Fulton County Indiana America 250.
For more information, please contact: County Connect Coordinator Candy Hayes at kandyroo@rtcol.com or County Connect Coordinator Support Amy A. Roe at anne7740@gmail.com.
SOUL’D OUT
Updates and happenings in and around the area
The BZA will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 22, at the Fulton County Office Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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Kewanna Union Township Public Library, 210 E. Main St., Kewanna, will host two special events to increase the public’s awareness of the importance of pollinator habitats in the environment. The events will take place at 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 22, and 4:30 p.m. Thursday, April 23.
Tony Carroll, a DNR wildlife biologist, will lead the programs. Attendees will make and take home their own butterfly house after the presentation. A limited number of butterfly house kits are available. Everyone is welcome to attend these free events.
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The Fulton County Retired Teachers will host a meet-andgreet from 11-11:30 a.m. Thursday, April 23, at Rochester Family Dining, Rochester, with the meeting beginning at 11:30 a.m. Taylor Showley, of the Youth Outlet Center, will be the speaker. RSVP to Joellen Wynn at (574) 223-2502.
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Fulton County Public Library, Fulton Branch, 7420 Liberty Ave., Fulton, will host its Grand reopening of the newly renovated building from 3:305:30 p.m. Thursday, April 23. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 4 p.m.
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Stand-Up Comedy Night will be held at at 8 p.m. Friday, April 24, at the Times Theater, 618 Main St., Rochester. This is a family-friendly show, and all ages are welcome. For more information, visit thetimestheater.com.
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Redbud Trail Rendezvous will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, April 25, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 26, at the Fulton County Historical Society, 37 E. 375N, Rochester. Call (574) 223-4436 or visit fultoncountyhistory.org for more information. Proceeds help operate the museum. Festival will be held rain or shine.
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The Area Plan Commission will meet at 6 p.m. Monday, April 27, at the Fulton County
Office Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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Lego Club will meet at 4 p.m. Monday, April, 27, at Akron Carnegie Public Library, 205 E. Rochester St., Akron. The program lasts approximately one hour. Kids can create something uniquely their own that tells a story all the while building confidence through creativity and friendship.
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City Council will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 28, at the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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The Redevelopment Commission will meet at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 29, at the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce will host its annual meeting and awards ceremony from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, April, 30, at the Fulton Community Center, 204
E. Dunn St., Fulton. The event will begin with connections and hors d’oeuvres at 11:30 a.m., followed by lunch and a year in review at noon and the awards ceremony at 12:40 p.m. Reserve tickets at (574) 224-2666 or email chelsie@fultoncountychamber.com. Cost is $30 for members and $50 for nonmembers.
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The Friends of Fulton County Parks will hand out free trees at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 2, at Prairie Edge Nature Park, CR 150N, Rochester. Care instructions and questions will be addressed. A total of 400 trees will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
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Fulton County is preparing to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence. Local events scheduled for Saturday, May 2, include food trucks, a vendor market and a citywide yard sale. For more information about Fulton County Indiana Amer-
Blast off
By RUSS DAVIDSON SR. Guest Writer
Four astronauts blasted off toward the moon Wednesday, April 11. I watched this on TV. I wonder what people here in the United Stated think about it. It made me proud to live here and enjoy freedom. But does this trip to space make things better for us?
Was the trip necessary? Does
it solve the war we are having? How about the politicians in Washington who can’t reach agreements on what is needed to make things better? I say a very long list.
Let’s hope the trip around the moon has some impact on our daily lives. The next time you see a flag waving in the air, think about what that means. Would I like to go to the moon? No, I like to look at it.
Fulton County Republican Women’s Club to meet April 27
The Fulton County Republican Women’s Club will meet at 5:30 p.m. Monday, April 27, at Tip A
Canoe Brew, 712 Main St., Rochester. Anyone interested is welcome to attend.
ica 250, visit the Facebook page or contact Amy Roe at anne7740@gmail.com or Candy Hayes at kandyroo@rtcol.com.
—o— American Legion Post 60, 828 Burlington Ave., Logansport, will host a craft fair and bazaar from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 2. Admission is free.
There will be a bake sale, raffles and food served all day. Vendors will offer crafts, unique gifts, treasures and more. Call or text Sandy at (574) 601-9333 or email sandysuesturdivant@ gmail.com. Proceeds will benefit sending girls to Hoosier Girls State and other veteran needs.
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Joe’s Dogs will be available from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, May 4, at Centennial Park, Rochester. Enjoy a hot dog and support those fighting cancer. All proceeds benefit Joe’s Hope.
•Combo special includes a hot dog, chips and drink for $7.
•Joe’s Deluxe Dog Combo includes ketchup, mustard, relish, chili and cheese, baked beans, and a drink for $10.
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For mental health or sub-
stance use crisis assistance, call 4C Health 24/7 at (800) 5523106, call or text 988, or visit 988indiana.org.
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A free meal is offered from 5:30-7 p.m. every Wednesday at Grace Church, 201 W. Seventh St., Rochester. All are welcome. Takeout is available. Meals are served by Rochester Grace Church, First Baptist Church, First Christian Church, an Mill Creek Missionary Church, and St. Joseph Catholic Church.
Fulton County Parks will
and answering
Local FFA leaders describe support of local agriculture
Text and Photos By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
Local FFA leaders say while a number of their students are planning to enter agriculture-related fields after graduation, those areas aren’t necessarily farming.
Caston High School FFA advisor and agriculture teacher Riley Roth said about half of the kids she teaches have been raised in farming.
“About 50% of those kids plan to continue farming or go into an agribusiness,” she said. “The ma-
jority of my students are planning to go into trades or other higher education industries.”
Tippecanoe Valley High School agriculture teacher and FFA advisor Mike Jones said that “Farming is not very high (of a career choice among his students), but agribusiness is.”
He said his students are considering careers with Keystone Cooperative for instance.
Each of the leaders said they connect their students with local farmers when possible.
Jones’ fellow agriculture teacher and FFA advisor Jenna Burton
said she and Jones send kids to work for area farmers.
“We ... have a lot of kids that take internships or jobs at local farms in the area as part of our cooperative work program, which provides our upperclassmen with opportunities to get work experience during school hours once they have their core classes completed,” said Roth of how her students connect with area agriculture.
She added farmers are welcome to interact with the students at the annual Hog Roast during FFA Week.
As for promoting farming in general, Roth said she makes sure her students “are advocating for agriculture in our school and community. “
“We have several opportunities
to teach our younger grades about different aspects of agriculture, (with) K-12 in one building,” said Roth. “Our FFA members love these events and are always looking for ways to involve the entire school. “
Jones and Burton said they help promote farming in general by teaching their students about farm safety and improving soils for better crops.
Their students also take part in activities such as the recent “A Taste of Agriculture in Kosciusko County” put on by Purdue Extension.
Burton added students have the opportunity to have supervised agriculture experiences, such as one of her daughters raising a small lamb herd.
SERVERS — Serving at the Caston High School FFA Hog Roast earlier this year are from left Alex Ault, Alyssa Smith, Kane Finke and Ava Russell.
VALLEY FFA — Tippecanoe Valley High School FFA members and advisors are shown during their community supper during FFA Week earlier this year.
Livestock figures for Fulton County detailed
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
Cattle and pigs are the livestock found most in Fulton County. That information is according to the United States Department of Agriculture’s Census of Agriculture.
Update to the State Nutrient Reduction Strategy
The Indiana State Department of Agriculture recently released an update to the State Nutrient Reduction Strategy, a statewide strategy designed to improve water quality in Indiana, the Great Lakes and the Gulf of America.
The updated strategy represents the state’s commitment to reduce sediment and nutrient runoff into Indiana’s waters from point source and non-point source pollutants. It captures statewide efforts in Indiana that positively impact our waters as well as documents the progress of conservation, water quality improvements, and adoption of soil health and edge-of-field practices across the state.
Additionally, the strategy serves as a renewed effort to encourage outreach and education to conservation partnerships and the public regarding stewardship of Indiana’s waters.
“This updated strategy underscores the important work being done in land stewardship,” said Don Lamb, director of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture. “There have been many achievements since the start of the strategy, and by updating it will only strengthen our ability to achieve the goal of reducing excess nutrients in our waterways.”
The updated strategy was produced under the leadership of ISDA and the the Indiana Department of Environmental Managemen with the guidance provided by the Indiana ConserContinued on page 12
Every five years, the USDA surveys counties across the country on the makeup of farms.
According to the 2022 Census, its most recent one, the USDA found there were 14,204 cattle and calves in Fulton County and 31,756 hogs and pigs.
Of other livestock, there were: 1,551 broilers and other meattype chickens; 635 goats; 651 horses and ponies; 75 pullets; 877 sheep and lambs; and 10 turkeys.
Numbers date to Dec. 31, 2022.
Compared to five years previous, the number of hogs and pigs increased for 2022, as did the broilers and other meat-type chickens, goats and sheep and lambs.
For 2017, those numbers were: hogs and pigs, 22,192; broilers and other meat-type chickens, 205; goats, 135; and sheep and lambs, 773.
In contrast, the numbers of cattle and calves and horses and ponies dropped in 2022.
In 2017, those numbers were: cattle and calves, 15,199; and
horses and ponies, 763.
There were no statistics on layers, pullets and turkeys for 2017.
CATTLE — Cattle along SR 14 near Akron greet the photographer. Photo by Leah Sander.
HORSES — Horses graze near Fulton. Photo by Lori Carr.
Spring Farming Time
Supporting local farmers: Why it matters
By LORI CARR Staff Writer
Local farmers play an essential role in communities by providing fresh food, supporting local economies and preserving agricultural traditions. Despite their importance, many small and family-owned farms face increasing challenges, making community support more critical than ever.
Rising production costs, competition from large agricultural corporations and unpredictable weather patterns have made it difficult for many farmers to stay in business. As a result, consumers are encouraged to make more intentional choices about where their food comes from and how their purchases impact local agriculture.
One of the most effective ways to support farmers is by purchasing locally grown products. When consumers buy directly from farmers, more money remains within the community. Farmers often reinvest their earnings locally, helping support other small businesses and contributing to
job creation. In contrast, purchases made through large national retailers often direct profits outside the local economy.
In Rochester, the Fulton County Farmers Market provides a direct connection between residents and local producers. The market recently received a Community Support Grant from the Northern Indiana Community Foundation to improve visibility and enhance the overall experience for vendors and visitors.
The grant will fund new marketing efforts, including signage, promotional materials and local advertising designed to attract more visitors. Additional improvements include a central information tent, live music during market hours and the addition of food trucks, all aimed at creating a more welcoming and engaging atmosphere for the community.
Located at Eighth and Madison streets, the market will be open from 8 a.m. to noon beginning May 9, and continue Saturdays through Oct. 3. Vendors offer a variety of goods, including fresh
Continued on page 13
Update to
Continued from page 11
vation Partnership and the SNRS workgroup.
“Indiana has put a premium on data to ensure we have a complete assessment of water health throughout the state,” said IDEM Commissioner Clint Woods. “This guided plan gives us a strategic
roadmap to better identify trends, address challenges, and measure progress over time, including impactful approaches to address harmful algal blooms and hypoxia.”
The following list includes objectives of this strategy:
Raise awareness about the proper types of conservation practices to use on agricultural ground as well as other rural best management practices.
Acknowledgment of the challenges facing the improvement of Indiana’s impaired waters.
Involvement and engaging of stakeholders in the state’s efforts to reduce nutrient loads.
Prioritization of HUC 8 watersheds within Indiana.
Discussion of water quality
monitoring and regulatory control of point sources.
The inventory and utilization of resources to achieve their highest impact on nutrient reduction.
Encouragement of voluntary incentive-based conservation through the many state and federal water quality related programs.
Illustrate the means by which the state will provide reports and accountability of assisted conservation practices reported by staff in the Indiana Conservation Partnership.
For more information and to view the full strategy, visit in.gov/ isda/divisions/soil-conservation/ indiana-state-nutrient-reduction-strategy/. Comments can be sent to ISDANutrientReduction@ isda.in.gov.
SPRING
BACKYARD FLOWER FARM — Bouquets of fresh-cut flowers are displayed for sale at The Backyard Flower Farm’s stand at a local farmers market in Rochester, where arrangements wrapped in brown paper sit in black buckets beneath a canopy. Photo provided by the Fulton County Farmers Market.
Supporting
Continued from page 12
produce, baked items, plants, flowers, handcrafted products and other seasonal offerings. Opening weekend coincides with Mother’s Day, providing an opportunity for shoppers to find locally made gifts.
Beyond economic benefits, locally grown food is often fresher and of higher quality. Unlike many grocery store products that travel long distances, local produce is typically harvested at peak ripeness and sold shortly afterward. This can result in better flavor and improved nutritional value while reducing the need for preservatives and packaging.
Supporting local farmers also benefits the environment. Food transportation over long distances contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, while buying locally helps reduce that impact. Additionally, many small farms use sustainable practices that promote soil health, protect water quality and support local ecosystems.
There are several ways individuals can support local agriculture, including shopping at farmers markets, joining community-sup-
ported agriculture programs and choosing locally sourced items at grocery stores or restaurants. Even small purchasing decisions
can have a meaningful impact over time and support future generations.
Efforts such as those at the
County Farmers
how community investment and engagement can strengthen local agriculture. By
supporting local farmers, consumers help ensure these businesses continue to thrive and contribute to long-term community stability.
LOCALLY GROWN — Fresh, locally grown tomatoes are displayed for sale at a farmers market in Rochester, where vendors offer seasonal produce directly to the community. Photo provided by the Fulton County Farmers Market.
THE BEE BARN — Jars of locally harvested honey from The Bee Barn are displayed for sale at a Rochester farmers market, offering a sweet taste of the region’s homegrown products. Photo provided by the Fulton County Farmers Market.
Fulton
Market demonstrate
Trends in general inflation and farm input prices
By MICHAEL LANGEMEIER Purdue University Center for Commercial Agriculture
Recent articles have examined increases in energy and fertilizer prices since early March. This article takes a broader view, focusing on longer-term trends in general inflation and agricultural input prices.
From 1973 to 2025, the implicit price deflator for personal consumption expenditures increased an average of 3.4% annually, compared with 4.1% for USDA’s agricultural production input index. The correlation between the two series was 0.59, indicating a moderate relationship between general inflation and farm input prices.
Inflation, defined as a decline in purchasing power over time, is typically measured using
price indices such as the consumer price index or implicit deflators. Although calculated differently, these measures tend to move together. Economists generally attribute inflation to growth in the money supply, which can lead to demand-pull, cost-push and built-in inflation. All three mechanisms have contributed to inflation in recent years.
Farm input prices are influ-
enced by both general inflation and input-specific supply and demand factors. As a result, some inputs are more closely aligned with inflation than others.
Analysis of data from 1973 to 2025 shows the correlation between general inflation and the overall agricultural input price index was 0.59. Average annual increases for labor (4.5%) and machinery (5.5%) exceeded the rate of general inflation and were more closely correlated with it. In contrast, feed prices showed no statistically significant relationship with general inflation. Inputs such as seed, fertilizer and fuel were also less closely tied to inflation trends. Agricultural input prices have been more volatile than general inflation. Since 1974, general inflation exceeded 10% in only two years — 1974 and 1980. In comparison, agricultural input prices rose more than 10% in seven years and exceeded 15% in 2008 and 2022. Input prices also declined in 13 years, while general inflation did not turn negative during this period. Measures of variability confirm this pattern,
with significantly higher variation in input prices, particularly for feed, seed, fertilizer and fuel. Recent data show similar dynamics. In 2025, general inflation declined sharply from the elevated levels seen between 2021 and 2023 and was close to its 10-year average. However, the rate of increase for agricultural production inputs in 2025 was nearly four times higher than general inflation. Over the 2021–2025 period, most farm inputs rose faster than inflation, except for feed and seed. Over a 10-year horizon, feed, seed and agricultural chemicals increased more slowly than inflation, while fertilizer and diesel posted gains exceeding 5% annually - more than double the rate of general inflation.
For the most recent 12-month period, from early 2025 to early 2026, general inflation increased 2.8%, near its long-term average. In contrast, the aggregate agricultural input price index rose 10.6%. Fertilizer and feeder livestock prices were key contributors to this increase. Nitrogen, phosphorus, potash, supplies, repairs and building materials all posted gains above general inflation, while other inputs rose more modestly.
Short-term price movements have remained volatile. In March, diesel prices increased about 34% and anhydrous ammonia rose roughly 13%. Compared with March 2025, ammonia prices were up about 23%. These increases are placing upward pressure on 2026 breakeven costs and may influence acreage decisions.
Overall, farm input prices are correlated with general inflation over the long term but are not perfectly aligned. Labor and machinery prices tend to track inflation more closely, while other inputs are more volatile and driven by sector-specific conditions. Recent increases in fertilizer and energy costs underscore the importance of these differences for farm profitability and production decisions.
INFLATION STATION This figure provides a visual summary of inflation and farm input price changes over the last 12 months. Photo provided by the Purdue University Center for Commercial Agriculture.
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Psi Iota Xi announces student art banner winners
Psi Iota Xi, Rochester, has announced the winners of its area student art banner contest. The contest is sponsored by Psi Iota Xi in partnership with the Northern Indiana Community Foundation and the Honeywell
Education Foundation.
This year’s theme, “Legacy in Lines and Colors: Celebrating a Decade of Student Artwork,” highlights more than 200 pieces of student artwork displayed throughout downtown Roches-
ter over the last decade.
An annual reception recognizing all 123 grade-level finalists was held April 15 in the Rochester High School auditorium. The contest includes students from Caston, Tippecanoe Valley and
Rochester school corporations.
Artwork submitted by the finalists was featured in a slide show presentation created by the Fulton County Public Library prior to the program. Original pieces will remain on
display at participating schools buildings and local libraries, including the Fulton County Public Library Fulton Branch and the Fulton County Public Library, for the remainder of the school year.
Redbud Trail Rendezvous returns April 25, 26
Forget the rain and snow flurries that stalled spring in Indiana this year.
The Redbud Trail Rendezvous will bring frontier fun right on
schedule Saturday, April 25, and Sunday, April 26, at the Fulton County Historical Society. The location is four miles north of Rochester on US 31 and CR 375N.
Tents will be set up south of the barn and Living History Village. Saturday hours are 10 a.m.5 p.m. and Sunday hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is $3 for adults, and free for children age 11 and younger. For more information, contact FCHS at (574) 223-4436 or fchs@rtcol.com or visit www.fultoncountyhistory.org. Rain or shine the festival will go on.
Since 1991, the Redbud Trail Rendezvous has brought history to northern Indiana. It portrays Indiana history from the Revolutionary War to the Western Fur Trade, making it a pre-1840 event.
Tents will be set up and lived in for the weekend by re-enactors and traditional craftsmen who will demonstrate and talk to the public about frontier history and camping.
People dressed in authentic pre-1840 outfits will demonstrate many traditional crafts. Crafts include flint knapping, beadwork, spinning and weaving, leather, watercolor painting, pewter casting, wood carving, blacksmith,
scrimshaw, fingerweaving, and much more.
Traditional crafts will be demonstrated and sold by: Mark Blosser, Tim Pearson and various blacksmiths in the blacksmith shop – red building; Merle Miller of La Porte – pewter casting; Steve Kirkpatrick – wood carving; and Bruce Eltzroth and Dana Farmer of Wabash – children’s games and toys.
Foods cooked over wood fires will include ham and beans, vegetable stew, buffalo burgers, sassafras tea and a breakfast of biscuits and sausage gravy. Fudge by Mark Gropp will be in the General Store, with pork rinds at the blacksmith shop.
Because there will be activities at the museum Saturday morning, the north gate to the rendezvous will be by the round barn. The Fulton County Museum, Round Barn Museum and some buildings in the Living History Village will be open for people to view.
Volunteers can earn free admission to the Redbud Trail Rendezvous by working half a day.
To volunteer, call the museum at (574) 223-4436.
Free parking is provided on FCHS grounds. The grounds are handicapped-accessible.
Again this year is a program tent with benches for the music and history presentations.
New this year will be the Clockwork Clown, also known as Emerald Kelley.
Fulton County Museum Director Melinda Clinger said Kelley does much interaction with kids. She previously came to the 2025 Trail of Courage. Clinger added people should come out to the Redbud as it’s a great way to enjoy a festival after the long winter.
Funding from this event helps to keep the museum open and preserve history.
Redbud Trail
Rendezvous Schedule
Saturday, April 25
10 a.m. - Opening CeremonyMark Gropp playing by the General Store (green building) 11-11:30 a.m. - Mark Gropp playing by the General Store
Noon-1 p.m. - Lunch Break
1-1:30 p.m. - Mark Gropp - bagpipes - by General Store
2-2:30 p.m. - River Valley Colonials Fife & Drum Corps - marching
Sunday, April 26
10 a.m. - Opening CeremonyMark Gropp playing by General Store
11-11:30 a.m. - River Valley Colonials Fire & Drum Corpsmarching 11:30 a.m.-Noon - Mark Gropp - bagpipes by General Store
Noon-1 p.m. - Lunch Break
1-2 p.m. - Kim Hoover – Birds of Prey by picnic tables
2-2:30 p.m. - Mark Gropp - bagpipes by General Store Clockwork Clown - various times all day both days.
ART BANNER WINNERS — Local area students from Rochester, Tippecanoe Valley and Caston school corporations were recognized April 15 in the RHS Auditorium for the art banner contest sponsored by Psi Iota Xi. Artwork will remain on display at participating school buildings and local libraries.
Shown in front from left Cailynn Tyler, Addisyn Tocco, Olivia Parker, Annabelle Meier,
Melanie Quintana, Evan Gothan and Addy Hake. Back row: Emma White, Maren Banning, Blakely Hass, Abigail Manns, Maci Rassi, Eloise Adams, Chloe Hoffarth and BJ Tackett. Not shown are Charlie Wood, Will Cunningham, Logyn Honkomp, Sage Jeffrey and Ella Cooksey.
Photo provided by Betty Martens.
Rochester
Baseball Brady Coleman and Brant Beck combined on a four-hitter to help the Rochester baseball team beat visiting Culver Academy 4-1 at Bob Copeland Field Friday, April 17.
By VAL TSOUTSOURIS SPORTS EDITOR, RTC
Beck, Parker Casper, Zakk Parks, Callen Ferverda and Liam Spence each had a single for Rochester. Carson Paulik had an RBI.
Culver Academy pitchers also walked five and hit a batter.
Rochester scored a run on an error, a run on a balk and two runs on wild pitches.
Rochester improved to 4-5. Culver Academy fell to 0-3.
The Rochester baseball team stayed patient through a first-inning rain delay and then punished host Plymouth for its wildness at Bill Nixon Field Tuesday, April 14.
Beck had a two-run double, and Parks had a two-run single as part of a seven-run fifth inning that put the Zebras ahead for good, and they went on to beat the Pilgrims 11-6.
Seven different Rochester players had a hit, and six different players had an RBI. The 7-8-9 batters in Rochester’s lineup – Braylon Smith, Ferverda and Spence – reached base seven times combined.
Softball
Bria Rensberger pitched a no-hitter with two walks and six strikeouts, and Aubrey Wilson and Jadyn Field had three RBIs each as the Class 2A, No. 9 Lady Zs rolled over visiting Lafayette Jeff 13-0 at Fansler Field Friday, April 17.
Wilson singled and tripled and was the only player on either team to have a multi-hit game. Jadyn Field and Bria Rensberger each had a double, and Aubrey Miller, Adalyn Gonzalez, Ali Field and Addisyn Banks each had a single.
Gonzalez had two RBIs, and Miller and Rensberger had one RBI each.
Lafayette Jeff committed four errors that led to seven unearned runs for Rochester. The game was called in the bottom of the fourth due to Lafayette Jeff lacking enough healthy players.
Track
Harrison Dunwoody might be a state qualifier in the 110 hurdles, but he showed that he is good on flat ground too against Whitko at Barnhart Field Thursday, April 16.
Dunwoody won the 100, the 200, the long jump and anchored the victorious 4x100 relay as Rochester beat Whitko 73-28.
Rochester also won the girls meet 54-50 even though Whitko athletes won more events (seven) than Rochester (six).
Whitko did not have distance runners, so the 1,600, the 3,200 and the 4x800 relay in both meets were not contested.
Dunwoody won the 100 in 11.2 seconds and the 200 in 23.6 seconds. In the long jump, he soared 19-4.75 and finished more than three feet ahead of the rest of the field.
“He’s a spectacular athlete,” Rochester coach Ryan Helt said of Dunwoody.
Kale Shotts, Hunter Kamp and Preston Luhnow joined him on the 4x100 relay.
With Dunwoody not hurdling, fellow senior Clarence Garrett filled the void and won the 110
Valley announces open swim at TVHS
Tippecanoe Valley High School’s administration recently announced upcoming open swimming, welcoming families and community members to enjoy the school’s swimming pool in a supervised environment.
Open swimming will be held on the following dates: Friday, April 24; Friday, May 8; and Friday May 15.
The pool will be open from 6-8 p.m. on each of these evenings. The cost to participate is $2 per person, and a certified lifeguard will be on duty at all times.
During open swim, designated lanes will be available for lap swimming, allowing guests to enjoy both recreational and fitness-focused swimming.
For safety purposes, all partici-
hurdles in 16.6 seconds and the 300 hurdles in 44.3 seconds.
Other Rochester individual winners included Grant Bailey in 55.2 seconds in the 400, Caden Biernacki in 2:22.4 in the 800, Grant Clark with a throw of 41-8 in the shot put, Mason Hisey with a throw of 140-11.5 in the discus and Tanner Horn with a clearance of 8-0 in the pole vault.
In the girls meet, Rochester individual winners included Maddie Bailon in 27.2 seconds in the 200, Kyra Doran in 15.7 seconds in the 100 hurdles, Jordyn Hackworth with a clearance at 4-6 in the high jump and Sophia Baker with a clearance of 6-0 in the pole vault.
Rochester also swept both relays. Doran, Bailon and Hackworth formed three-fourths of the 4x100 relay along with freshman Maddie MacLain. The 4x400 relay consisted of A.J. Graber, Quinn Gruss, Ainsley Horvath and Addisyn Zimmerman.
Both the Rochester girls and boys track teams finished second in a three-way meet against Manchester and host Wabash April 14.
Manchester won the girls meet with 76.5 points, Rochester had 65.5, and Wabash had 29.
In the boys meet, Manchester won with 76 points, Rochester had 53, and Wabash had 35.
Rochester individual winners in the girls meet included Allyson Calloway, who won both the 800 in 2:41.85 and the 1,600 in 5:52; Daniela Ochoa, who won the 3,200 in 13:31.66; Doran, who won the long jump with a leap of 151; and Ashlynn Weyant, who took the shot put with a heave of 297.5.
Meanwhile, Rochester boys winners included freshman Tyson Wachtmann, who took the 400 in 56.36 seconds; Grayson Miller, who cleared the pole vault at 9-0; and Clark, who won the shot put with a toss of 42-9.5.
Girls Tennis
The Rochester girls tennis team lost to visiting Tippecanoe Valley 4-1 at the RHS courts Friday, April 17.
Ellie Straeter won Rochester’s only point with a 6-4, 6-3 win at No. 2 singles.
Olivia Bailey has come back a better, more patient tennis player, according to coach Jesse Atkinson.
Bailey showed off that patience in a 6-3, 6-3 win over Whitko’s Alexa Culp at No. 1 singles in a dual between the teams Wednesday, April 15, but Whitko won the other matches in a 4-1 win.
Ellie Straeter lost 6-1, 7-5 to Audrey Watmough at No. 2 singles. Emma Murphy lost 6-0, 6-1 to Andrea Werstler at No. 3 singles.
At No. 1 doubles, J.J. Graber and Abriella St. Martin lost to Grace Burnworth and Catherine Deckena 6-0, 6-2, and Whitko’s Lillian Coil and Hannah Moore claimed a 6-0, 6-1 win at No. 2 doubles over Hailey Crissinger and Ella Ramsey.
The Rochester boys golf team shot a 399 and finished 18th out of 19 teams at the Don Docken Classic at Stonehenge Golf Club in Winona Lake Saturday, April 18.
Ashton Musselman led Rochester with an 82, Isaac Heishman had a 98, Jack Reffett had a 108, Brevin Nicholson fired a 111, and Parker Brown had a 120.
Musselman finished in a tie for 13th among 96 individuals.
Heishman shot an even-par 36 to earn medalist honors over the back nine at Round Barn Golf Club at Mill Creek Thursday, but Culver Academy claimed the win with a 159 while Tippecanoe Valley shot a 165, and the Zebras shot a 166.
Heishman’s round included birdies on Nos. 10 and 17. He also had bogeys on Nos. 16 and 18 and five pars.
Musselman added a 41, Reffett had a 44, and Nicholson and Adam Reinhold each had a 45.
pants ages 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Additionally, the following forms must be completed and signed prior to swimming: Pool rules agreement, liability waiver and emergency contact form.
TVHS is also excited to share plans for the future. The school intends to offer swimming lessons for children during the summer and restart open swim opportunities again in the fall.
These Open Pool Nights reflect the school’s commitment to promoting wellness, safety and community engagement. Families and community members are encouraged to join us for these evenings at the pool.
For more information, please contact TVHS.
Dunwoody lost his 110 hurdles showdown with fellow state qualifier Carson Heath of Manchester. Heath won in 14.70 seconds as compared to Dunwoody’s 15.00.
OPENING DAY | MAY 9TH
OPENING DAY | MAY 9TH
OPENING DAY | MAY 9TH
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OPENING DAY | MAY 9TH
OPENING DAY | MAY 9TH
Visit the Fulton County Farmers Market in Rochester, Indiana, for fresh produce from local growers, homemade goods, and handcrafted items from local artisans.
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FultonCountyFarmersMarket.com
OPENING DAY | MAY 9TH FultonCountyFarmersMarket.com
Visit the Fulton County Farmers Market in Rochester, Indiana, for fresh produce from local growers, homemade goods, and handcrafted items from local artisans.
Visit the Fulton County Farmers Market in Rochester, Indiana, for fresh produce from local growers, homemade goods, and handcrafted items from local artisans.
Visit the Fulton County Farmers Market in Rochester, Indiana, for fresh produce from local growers, homemade goods, and handcrafted items from local artisans.
OPENING DAY | MAY 9TH
OPENING DAY | MAY 9TH
OPENING DAY | MAY 9TH
Visit the Fulton County Farmers Market in Rochester, Indiana, for fresh produce from local growers, homemade goods, and handcrafted items from local artisans.
Visit the Fulton County Farmers Market in Rochester, Indiana, for fresh produce from local growers, homemade goods, and handcrafted items from local artisans.
FultonCountyFarmersMarket.com
Visit the Fulton County Farmers Rochester, Indiana, for fresh produce local growers, homemade handcrafted items from local OPENING DAY | MAY FultonCountyFarmersMarket.com
OPENING DAY | MAY 9TH FultonCountyFarmersMarket.com
Visit the Fulton County Farmers Market in Rochester, Indiana, for fresh produce from local growers, homemade goods, and handcrafted items from local artisans.
Visit the Fulton County Farmers Market in Rochester, Indiana, for fresh produce from local growers, homemade goods, and handcrafted items from local artisans.
Visit the Fulton County Farmers Market in Rochester, Indiana, for fresh produce from local growers, homemade goods, and handcrafted items from local artisans.
Visit the Fulton County Farmers Market in Rochester, Indiana, for fresh produce from local growers, homemade goods, and handcrafted items from local artisans.
BILL SIGNING State Sen. Stacey A. Donato, in the back row and left of the American flag, attends the ceremonial signing of House Enrolled Act 1257, which she sponsored to
Braun signs into law bills authored, sponsored by Donato
Two bills, one authored and one sponsored by Republican state Sen. Stacey A. Donato, District 18, were ceremonially signed into law April 14 by Gov. Mike Braun.
Senate Enrolled Act 139 provides a jury-duty exemption for breastfeeding mothers.
As of last year, 22 states have enacted laws allowing for similar exemptions.
“Juries are crucial to our judicial system, but this law gives new mothers the ability to prioritize providing the best care for their baby,” said Donato, who authored the bill.
House Enrolled Act 1257 aims to better protect Hoosier children by adding legislative over-
sight mechanisms to the policies of the Department of Child Services. The law increases reporting requirements within DCS and allows Indiana’s members of Congress and state legislators to request access to child abuse and neglect reports.
Donato is a member of the Senate Committee on Family and Children Services and sponsored the legislation.
“House Enrolled Act 1257 is a key step in moving Indiana away from reactive policymaking to a model that aims for better transparency and the prevention of tragedies before they occur,” Donato said.
Donato said she was pleased to be able to join Braun at the sign-
ing ceremonies. Donato encourages residents of Senate District 18 to contact her with any questions or com-
ments they may have. She can be reached by filling out a “Contact Me” form online at IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Donato or by
and Miami counties and parts of Kosciusko and Howard counties.
Fulton County GOP to host candidate meet and greet April 30
The Fulton County Republican Party is hosting a state and local candidate meet and greet on Thursday, April 30, at the Fulton County
Museum, 37 E. 375N, Rochester. Everyone is welcome to come. Doors open at 6 p.m., with the welcome and pledge at 6:30 p.m.
Candidates will speak starting at 6:40 p.m., with closing remarks at 7:30 p.m. Networking is from 7:45-8:30 p.m.
Tips for gardening without the pain
Editor’s Note: Jennifer Lauro is an occupational therapist at Woodlawn Health.
By JENNIFER LAURO, OTR Woodlawn Health
April is National Occupational Therapy Month. Occupational therapists are medical professionals who focus on helping individuals participate in daily activities and tasks. They promote health and well-being through occupation, or purposeful activity, activity modification, education
JENNIFER LAURO, OTR
and exercise. Gardening is a great way to spend time outdoors and get exercise, but it can be hard on your body if you’re not careful. Here are some tips for practicing good body mechanics and preventing pain and injury while gardening:
• Warm up before you start: Just like with any physical activity, it’s essential to warm up your muscles before gardening. Take a short walk or gentle stretches to get your body ready.
• Use proper tools: Make sure you’re using tools that are the right size for you and in good condition. Using tools that are too heavy or too long can cause strain on your muscles and joints.
• Use a cushion or pad: If you’re kneeling or sitting on the ground, use a cushion or pad to protect your knees and back.
• Keep your back straight: When bending over to plant or weed, ensure you’re bending at your hips and keeping your back straight. Avoid hunching over, which can strain your back muscles.
• Lift with your legs: If you need to lift something heavy, like a bag of soil, squat down and use your legs instead of bending over and using your back.
• Take breaks: Gardening can be hard work, so stretch and rest every 20-30 minutes.
• Stay hydrated: Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water while gardening to prevent dehydration, which can cause muscle cramps and fatigue.
• Listen to your body: If you start to feel pain or discomfort, stop what you’re doing and take a break. Don’t push through the pain, as this can lead to injury. By following these tips, you can enjoy gardening while caring for your body and preventing pain and injury. If you have any health concerns affecting your ability to participate in your daily activities, contact the Rehab Department at Woodlawn Hospital at (574) 224-1160.
increase protections for Hoosier children. Photo provided by Donato’s office.
