Public encouraged to adopt county dispatchers ahead of Telecommunicators Week
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
The public doesn’t get to see Fulton County dispatchers at work.
Though the 13 women who are full- or part-time dispatchers communicate with the public on a regular basis, they work behind the scenes and rarely are recognized for their help in emergencies, said Fulton County 911 Communications Director Brittney Thompson.
She aims to change that through an initiative related to National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.
Through Friday, April 11, people are welcome to adopt a dispatcher by donating gift cards, treats and other items, which will be put into baskets for the women to receive during Telecommunicators Week, which runs Sunday, April 13 to
Saturday, April 19.
Thompson said the public may also select a specific dispatcher to get items for. To donate, people should call (574) 223-2910 or email Thompson at 911director@ co.fulton.in.us or Jennifer Duff at jduff@co.fulton.in.us.
Thompson said she came up with the idea due to other surrounding counties doing it. It’s the first time Fulton County’s ever done such a thing.
Thompson hopes the gifts “just ... add some fun” for the dispatchers as well as “to just kind of cheer them up in such a (stressful) environment.”
“All the things that we encounter, it’s rare that a dispatcher gets recognized,” she said.
Thompson said it’s only been fairly recently that the state has recognized dispatchers as first responders.
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TAKING A CALL — Fulton County 911 Communications Director Brittney Thompson, left, stands by dispatcher Libby Hake as she is on a call on Tuesday, April 1.
Text and Photos
Almost-centenarian Violet Seiwert encourages others to ‘live life to fullest’
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
On the eve of her 100th birthday, a Rochester resident is encouraging others to “live your life to the fullest.”
Violet “Vi” Seiwert marks that milestone on Monday, April 14.
Seiwert perhaps may have heeded her own advice, having visited all 50 states and 18 countries. She’s also been involved in numerous organizations over her lifetime.
An area resident since 1951, Seiwert is originally from Wisconsin.
She graduated from Weyau-
wega High School and later obtained a degree in business management from Milwaukee Business College.
After moving to Fulton County, Seiwert worked in banking and raised three sons and three daughters, five of whom are still living.
She has three granddaughters, one grandson and one great-grandson.
In her spare time, Seiwert has been involved in numerous groups over the years.
She said she’s the last one living from the homefront club in Wisconsin she was involved in during World War II, which “rolled bandages for the vet-
erans and collected tin for the war effort.”
Seiwert also joined the Kiwanis Club of Rochester shortly after it opened its membership to women.
“It was strange because the men had been there for a long time,” she said, adding some club members quit after women also were allowed.
She noted she was the longest secretary-treasurer of the club, serving for 18 years.
“I sold (tickets to the club’s annual turkey dinner) until I was 95,” she said.
Seiwert also was in a bridge club, involved with the Fulton County Historical Society, president of the Woodlawn Hospital Auxiliary and Riddle School’s parent-teacher association.
Over the years, she’s collected kangaroos via gifts from people. One kangaroo came from her kids “who pooled their money” to get the stuffed animal from the former Wiles Department Store in Rochester, she said.
People are welcome to drop off cards for Seiwert for her birthday at Wynnfield Crossing, where she resides.
Join us for lunch and explore our Neighborhood Homes and Manor Apartments, with maintenance-free living your way.
Public encouraged
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“I think it’s starting to get better, but even in small communities like this, they don’t think of what’s heard in result to what the action is, so I mean dispatchers have good stories, but a lot of us have a lot of negative things that we keep in our minds forever and it causes a lot of PTSD and high stress,” she said.
Thompson added that sometimes the dispatchers downplay what they do to the public be-
cause “they don’t do it for the recognition.”
“I just want these girls to know not only how important they are to me, but without them, law enforcement’s not going to get the call,” she added. “The caller is not going to remain calm or be provided pre-arrival instructions until the help arrives, so I just want the public to know how appreciated they are, how important they are to me because we have a fantastic group of ladies.”
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MARKING 100 Violet “Vi” Seiwert of Rochester turns 100 on Monday, April 14. Photo by Leah Sander.
The power of Jesus
(Read Mark 5:1-34)
“When (Jesus) was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit” (Mark 5:2).
By THE REV. RON PURKEY
First, a demoniac (Mark 5:120). Jesus went through a storm to get to two demoniacs (Matt. 8:28) who needed his help. The demons begged not to be sent to the pit (verse 10), the citizens begged Jesus to leave (verse 17), and one healed man begged to be allowed to go with Jesus (verse 18). The citizens were concerned more with financial profit than with spiritual benefit. Imagine asking Jesus to leave you!
The demons feared that Jesus would send them into the abyss (Luke 8:31; Revelations. 9:1-2, 11; 20:1-3), which for them would mean eternal torment and the end of their liberty to serve Satan on earth. They knew who Jesus was and what he could do
to them.
Some people have criticized Jesus for destroying 2,000 pigs, but their accusations are foolish. Jesus could have sent the demons anywhere; but when he chose to send them into the pigs, He accomplished several purposes.
Second, a ruler of a synagogue (Mark 5:21-23, 35-43).
All kinds of people came to the feet of Jesus. A well-known synagogue leader and an anonymous sick woman could find help there.
Perhaps the woman’s faith was a bit superstitious, but the Lord still honored it. If you cannot grasp his hand, touch the hem of his garment. The first step of faith, no matter how weak, will lead to greater blessings.
It took a great deal of courage for the ruler to come to Jesus, for many of the religious leaders were set on destroying him. But his love for his dying daughter forced him to lay aside his prejudices and go to Jesus.
The ground is level at the feet of Jesus, for all who have burdens meet there. Jesus could have healed the girl from a distance (John 4:46-54; Matthew 8:5-13), but he chose to go with the wor-
ried father.
The little girl was actually dead, and the mourners knew it. But for the believer, death is only sleep: the spirit leaves the body (James 2:26) and the body sleeps (1 Thessalonians. 4:13-18). The spirit does not sleep but at death goes to be with the Lord (Philippians 1:20-23). See the tenderness and practicality of Jesus: he told them to give her something to eat!
Third, a suffering woman (Mark 5:24-34). No situation is so desperate that Jesus cannot work. Disease, delays, and even death are under his control. Jesus goes with you to the place of disappointment and sorrow and meets your needs. No matter how depressing your situation may appear, “Do not be afraid; only believe” (verse 36). Remember, Jesus is working for you
These are only three of many people who came to the feet of Jesus while he was ministering here on earth. They should be a blessing to you as they reveal the love and power of Jesus.
Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines free at rcpbibleoutlines. com. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.
Kewanna
Cemetery to host meeting and clean up
Spring cleanup of the Kewanna Citizens IOOF Cemetery is set to begin at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 16. Volunteers are welcome. A short annual meeting of the cemetery association will follow. Persons with grave decorations they would like to save should remove them prior to the cleanup. All old and faded decorations will be removed.
All cemetery decorations and containers, such as vases, must be mounted on the memorials or memorial foundations. Live plants, flowers, shrubs, trees and decorative rocks around memorials and foundations are not permitted. To donate toward the upkeep of the cemetery, send contributions to Kewanna Citizens IOOF Cemetery, P.O. Box 224, Kewanna, IN 46939.
NEW FULTON TOWN COUNCIL MEMBER Bill Miller, left, was appointed by Fulton County Republican Party Chairwoman Amy Roe, right, to fill a vacancy on the Fulton Town Council. Photo provided by Amy Roe.
SWORN IN Fulton County Clerk Dawn Ziemek, left, swears in Bill Miller on Friday, March 28, to fill a vacancy on the Fulton Town Council. Miller was appointed by Fulton County GOP Chairwoman Amy Roe. Photo provided by Amy Roe.
Carole L. Dale
Dedicated Grandmother
Carole L. Dale, 74, Rochester, was surrounded by her loving family when she passed away at 4:15 a.m. Saturday, March 29, 2025, at St. Vincent’s Hospital, Carmel.
On Jan. 20, 1951, Carole L. Ogle was born in Rochester to John Charles and Delores Mae Hundt Ogle. Growing up, she shared her childhood with four sisters, Sandra, Doris, Gloria and Julie, and a brother, Donnie. Proudly, she graduated from Rochester High School with the class of 1969.
On Nov. 16, 1968, Carole and Donald Ray Jackson were married. From their union came two wonderful children, Charlie and Elizabeth. The family tree continued to grow with the added blessings of two grandchildren. Carole was a member of St. John Lutheran Church.
With a soft spot in her heart for her pets, she inherited Dobbie, the blonde Chihuahua, from Charlie. She was also owned by Luna, the black feline, and Angel, the white tiger-blended feline.
A homemaker, Carole was devoted and dedicated to her children, raising them with immense love. When the grands came, she expressed great love to them as well. She was mindful that they always had all they needed. As a crafter, she would create very cool custom applique sweatshirts. She made a Pound Puppy and a Cabbage Patch doll reflecting their perfect image. As a culinary expert, Carole found happiness in her kitchen baking and cooking for her family. She always made birthday celebration cakes and during the holidays made a variety of specially decorated cookies.
Left to cherish the memory of Carole are daughter, Elizabeth Mae Kapp and husband Michael, Rochester; two grandchildren, Carole Mae Sophia Kapp and Wyatt Jackson Kapp; four sisters, Sandi Bahney, Gaston, Doris Jackson, Rochester, Gloria D’Amico and husband Donald, Florida, and Julie Lehman and husband Shane, Rochester; sister-in-law, Jean Ogle; and several nieces and nephews.
Preceding Carole in death were her parents; husband, Donald Jackson; son, Charles Jackson on May 11, 2023; and brother, Donald Ogle on Nov. 16, 2014.
A celebration of the life of Carole L. Dale will be announced in the near future. The Good Family Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements. Pastor Curtis May will officiate.
Interment will be in the Mt. Zion Cemetery.
Online expressions of sympathy may be made to her family at goodfamilyfh.com.
Sharon Kay Moore
Sharon Kay Moore, 75, Rochester , died at 9:10 p.m. Friday, April 4, 2025, at Peabody Retirement Community, North Manchester.
Arrangements are pending at Good Family Funeral Home, Rochester.
Emily A. Brown
Emily A. Brown, 90, Knox, passed away on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at Miller’s Merry Manor, Plymouth.
She was born on Oct. 24, 1934. She married Irvin Brown; who preceded her in death.
She is survived by her children, Harold Sutton, Jr. (Krista), Bourbon, Robert Sutton (Sandy), Kewanna and Mary Reinholt, Monterey; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her children, James Sutton and Linda Reinholt; brothers, Hugh MacLain, Clifford MacLain and Lawrence MacLain; sisters, Mattie Rainey, Blanch Culver, Roxie Fry, Marilyn Zartman, Elnita Ruth Hart, Flo Conley, Gladys Stutzman, Merle Isaacs and Jessie Hines.
Funeral services were held at 1 p.m., Tuesday, April 8, at Rans Funeral Homes and Crematory, Metzger Chapel.
Interment was in Citizens I.O.O.F. Cemetery, Kewanna.
Memorial contributions can be made to Citizens I.O.O.F. Cemetery.
Online condolences can be shared with the family at ransfuneralhomes. com.
David D. Pitera
David D. Pitera, 60, Culver, died March 30, 2025, at his home.
He was born on April 20, 1964. On Dec. 29, 1990, he married Elizabeth Ann “Liz” Hope; who survives.
DAVID D. PITERA
Additional survivors are his son, David Dylan Pitera and companion, Emily McGrath, Boston, Mass.; two sisters, Deb Pitera, Dallas, Texas and Dawn Betrus, Naples, Fla.; his mother, Patricia Pitera, Dallas, Texas; father, Walt Pitera, Naples, Fla.; father-in-law, Donald L. (Donna) Hope; brother-in-law, Rick (Belinda) Hope; one nephew; and his treasured canine companion, Toewser, the English Creme Golden Retriever. A celebration of life service will be announced at a later date.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Good Family Funeral Home, Rochester. Preferred memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital at stjude.org. Online expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at goodfamilyfh.com.
Dixie Ann Arter, 87, Fort Wayne, died Friday, April 4, 2025, at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne.
She was born on Dec. 4, 1937. On Feb. 24, 1957, she married Stephen G. Arter; who preceded her in death on June 21, 2003.
She is survived by her companion, Chuck Ramsey, Fort Wayne; children, Paul Arter, Phoenix, Ariz. and Peggy Good (Steven) Hoyle, Bloomington; six grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; sister, Sandra (Tom) Sissel, Vermont; and one niece and nephew.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Lewis Myers Jr. and Edyth (Stephen) Rohr, infant brother, Jay Myers and sister, Carolyn Koenig.
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 12, at First Wayne St. United Methodist Church, 300 E. Wayne St., Fort Wayne, IN 46802, with Rev. Dr. Mark Finstermacher officiating.
Interment will be at 2 p.m. in the Akron Cemetery, Akron, following the service, with Pastor David Eaton providing the committal service.
Friends may visit one hour prior to services in the church.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Hartzler Funeral Home, 305 W. Rochester St., Akron.
Memorial contributions can be made to Parkview Health Foundation, 3844 New Vision Drive, Fort Wayne, IN 46845.
Online condolence can be shared with the family at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.
C O unty r ep O rt
Court News
Circuit Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Circuit Court, Judge Arthur Christopher Lee presiding: Complaints
RHP Partners III Capital, LLC v. Ciera Swearingen-McIntosh, Rochester, $34,064.10
Communitywide Federal Credit Union v. Rex Trainer, Rochester, $6,514.49
Discover Bank v. Ron Hamman, Kewanna, $8,389.55
Midland Credit Management, INC v. Anthony Collins, Rochester, $4,938.55
Mortgage Foreclosure
Servbank, SB v. Adam Craft, Rochester, and Courtney Craft, Rochester, $160,889.39
Superior Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Superior Court, Judge Gregory L. Heller presiding: Complaints
Americredit Financial Services, Inc. d/b/a GM Financial v. Pauline Warren, Rochester, and James Borntrager, Wolcotville, $17,398.72
Credit Acceptance Corp. v. Brenda Lowe, Akron, $16,125.07
Crown Asset Management, LLC v. Justin Williams, Kewanna, $1,350.02
Spring Oak Capital SPV, LLC v. Robert Sturgill, Rochester, $2,819.23
Traffic Violations
The following fines and levies were paid in Fulton County courts:
Disregarding stop sign — Randy Overmyer, Rochester, $164.50
Driving left of center, learner’s permit violation, no operator’s license in possession, speeding — Bryton Harmon, Plymouth, $239.50
Driving while suspended — Dal-
isha Rodriguez Claudio, South Bend, $164.50; Tashia Overton, Indianapolis, $164.50
Operating with expired plates — Lisa Paxton, Silver Lake, $164; Chase Musselman, Kewanna, $164 Speeding — Turquoise Buggs, South Bend, $154.50; Ian Robbie, Mishawaka, $164.50; Warren Conatser, Beech Grove, $154.50; Iurii Zbitnev, Goshen, $164.50; Michael Galvin, Wyoming Ohio, $164.50; Samantha Biddle, Logansport, $164.50; Braydon Duff, Kewanna, $164.50; Kayla Keehn, Elkhart, $154.50; Jakob Ritter, Brownsburg, $164.50; Brianna Cooper-Maust, Elkhart, $154.50; Kamaljit Singh, Carmel, $154.50; Enrique Grijalva-Martinez, Chicago, Ill., $154.50; Chandler Griffin, Westfield, $154.50; John Terry, Goshen, $175; Marc Turner, Rochester, $164.50; Vladimyr Valdema, Evansville, $164.50; Gene Sherry, South Bend, $164.50; Zachary Bernal, Westville, $154.50; Shannon Townsend, Pleasant Prairie, Wis. $154.50; Melody Vo, Sunnyvale, Calif, $154.50; Michael Bishop, Indianapolis, $154.50; Raymond Frazee, South Bend, $164.50; Camron Lozada, Dowagiac, Mich., $154.50; Mario Robinson, Matteson, Ill., $154.50; Danah Hill, La Porte, $154.50; Vinno Tan, Indianapolis, $164.50; Stanley Proctor, Indianapolis, $164.50; Angel Montalvo, Indianapolis, $154.50
Unlawful possession of tobacco, e-liquid or an electronic cigarette — Danicka Nagy, Elkhart, $164
Marriage Dissolutions
The following couple has filed for marriage dissolution in Fulton County courts: Kruse — Geoffrey Kruse, Columbia City, and April Kruse, Rochester. With minor children.
House Republicans adopt new property tax proposal over Democrat concerns
By WHITNEY DOWNARD Indiana Capital Chronicle
A new property tax plan from Indiana House Republicans prevailed over qualms from Democrats on Monday, April 7, advancing to the House floor for further considerations after the 15-8 committee vote.
Natalie Faye Weese
Amanda and Ryan Weese, Rochester, are the parents of a daughter, Natalie Faye, born at 4:42 a.m. Saturday, March 19, in Woodlawn Health. She weighed 5 pounds, 8.5 ounces, and was 18 inches long.
Scarlett Rose Singleton
Brandie McVicker and Derrik Singleton are the parents of a daughter, Scarlett Rose, born on Wednesday, March 26, in Woodlawn Health. She weighed 6 pounds, 14 ounces, and was 20.5 inches long.
Senate Bill 1 would now let counties increase their local income taxes and — for the first time — allow cities to implement their own local income taxes. Under a massive amendment adopted Monday, counties would be able to levy an income tax up to 2.9%, up from the current 2.5% cap, while cities could go up to 1.2%.
The legislation would also phase out, by 2030, the business personal property tax on anything purchased this year or later.
Democrats balked at voting for the 368-page amendment without
any fiscal foresight. The Legislative Services Agency doesn’t draft fiscal notes on amendments until they’re adopted.
“(This) is not ready for prime time,” said Rep. Greg Porter, D-Indianapolis. “We still have a lot of movement on it to get it to the point that we can even entertain it, as Democrats.”
Amendment author Rep. Jeff Thompson, R-Lizton, said it balances local government funding needs with relief for homeowners.
“Ninety-three percent (of homeowners) will pay less than they would have without this bill,” said Thompson, who chairs the committee. “Fifty-five percent will actually pay less in pay ‘26 than pay ‘25 and we do know that it’s roughly $200 per home.”
Thompson said that analysts hoped to release an updated fiscal note on the new property tax plan by the evening.
CAROLE L. DALE
Dixie Ann Arter
DIXIE ANN ARTER
SHARON K. MOORE
PROPOSAL ADOPTED State Rep. Greg Porter, D-Indianapolis, speaks with reporters after a committee votes to adopt a new property tax proposal. Photo by Whitney Downard with the Indiana Capital Chronicle.
Oliver: Fulton County JCAP provides ‘hope in the future’
Text and Photos
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
One of the Fulton County Jail Chemical Addiction Program’s recent graduates said going through the program has granted him “hope in the future.”
“It’s quite a sense of accomplishment coming from where I’ve come from and what I’ve been through and what I thought my life would be,” Joe Oliver III said.
The fourth Fulton County JCAP class consisting of Oliver and Ryne Carpenter graduated on Friday, April 4, during a ceremony at the jail.
JCAP, which exists in other counties in Indiana, allows inmates who volunteer to join it to address their chemical addictions while taking life skills classes, with service providers helping with both.
Oliver said his future after being released from jail “is going to be helping others in the same way that I’ve been helped.”
He noted what he learned about himself through the 12week process of JCAP was “I don’t have to be what others expected me to be.”
“I thought I had to live up to expectations that were set upon me as a child, which are no longer there,” said Oliver. “I can be who I want to be.”
Carpenter said JCAP helped him deal with some trauma.
“It’s very uncomfortable, but (getting) it out there is something that we have to go through if we want to be better,” he said.
Carpenter added he felt “excited” about graduating.
“I’m usually just nervous when I get out of jail, but this time around I’m actually excited,” he said. “I feel like I have people that will be there for me when I get out, and it’s not usually something I do.”
During the ceremony, both men also had time to talk.
Carpenter said he discovered he wanted a better life for himself and his family.
“I knew that in order for this to work I had to ask for help and not only ask for help, but to accept help from other people who at the time were complete strangers to me,” he said.
Oliver said during one session during JCAP he had to think about someone who he wanted to be.
While initially thinking about Deion Sanders or Derek Jeter, Oli-
the graphic on shirts they wore at their graduation. The rhino with the curly hair represents Carpenter and the coffee cup represents Oliver.
ver later realized, ‘Why wouldn’t I want to be myself?’ as he also has “good qualities.”
Oliver also reflected on waking up one time during JCAP and thinking: “‘Wow, this is what the belly of a whale looks like.’”
“I’ve been running from God and from my responsibilities and what God has called me to do, and there was no fear in that and I shed all my fears and I’m excited,” said Oliver. “No matter what the outcome is of my sentencing I’m taking accountability for whatever happens.”
Sessions during JCAP and those helping with it included: First Fed-
eral Savings Bank of Rochester; Purdue Extension; Artful Expressions; 4C Health; Warsaw Adult Education; The Cross church of Rochester; the Fulton County Public Library; Snyder Counseling Services Inc.; Faith Outreach Center; Yoga with Aimee Trout; the Fulton County Animal Adoption and Education Center; Tammy Wilson; Melissa Weitzel; Celebrate Recovery Inside; anger management and relapse prevention classes; Narcotics Anonymous; Sandra’s Sweet Cheats; Fulton County Sheriff Travis Heishman and Angie Heishman; and the Church of the Heartland of Rochester.
THANK YOU
On Friday, February 21 after 47 years, 8 months and 30 days, I lost the love of my life and best friend.
I want to thank everyone for the prayers, cards, and visits and calls checking on me along with everyone coming to the Celebration of Life. I am a very lucky person to have all of you as friends.
A special thank you to the following: Steve and Jane Shriver; Beth Smith; Trinity Lease; Dr. Mike Boldry; Pam Overmyer; Don Shriver; Angela Brunk; Ted and Lynda Richard and Shaylee; Buddy Lowe; Taylor and Faith Sherk; Ron Robowski; Pat Lett; Addie, Desi, and Tracy at Webbs Pharmacy; Gentiva Hospice; Christina Rose; Holly Smith; Tilesha Lozier; Darren at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home; Linda at Macy Elevator; Eric at The Tire Store; and Keith Lambright and the Staff at Shipshewana Auction. I miss Beth very much but she is now in a better place with no more pain. Thank you again to everyone. You have helped me tremendously to continually get through this.
Mike Clair
JCAP GRADUATION The fourth Fulton County Jail Chemical Addiction Program class graduated on Friday, April 4, at the jail. Graduates included Joe Oliver III and Ryne Carpenter. Shown from left are Fulton County Sheriff Travis Heishman; Fulton County As-
sistant Jail Commander Marty Ehlinger; JCAP Coordinator Debbie Fernandez; Oliver; JCAP Coordinator Hector Fernandez; Carpenter; and Fulton County Jail Commander Cathi Collins.
SHIRT DESIGN Fulton County JCAP members Joe Oliver III and Ryne Carpenter helped design
SPEAKING — Deonte Lyons, who was part of the first Fulton County JCAP class, speaks at the graduation on Friday.
Updates and happenings in and around the area
Fulton County Bark Park will have a sponsor night 4 p.m. to close Wednesday, April 9, at Rochester Dairy Queen. Customers must let the server know in order to receive credit.
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Kewanna-Union Township Library, 210 E. Main St., Kewanna, and James F. Talbott VFW Post 1121, will host an annual Easter egg hunt at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 12. It will be followed by Easter games and story time, hosted by the Teens N Tweens.
Children 2-12 are welcome to attend. Prizes will be awarded. The hunt will be held on the library lawn. For more information visit kewanna.lib.in.us, call (574) 6532011, or visit the Facebook page.
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Akron Lions Club fish fry will
be from 4-6 p.m. or until fish sells out, Saturday, April 12, at the Akron Community Center, 815 Rural St., Akron. Fish fry benefits the Fulton County Compassionate Health Network.
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The Rochester FOP Lodge 143 gun show will be from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 12, at the Fulton County Historical Society, 37 E. 375N, Rochester. General admission $4, children 12 and under free with adult.
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Operation Christmas Celebration event to be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 12, at New Life Alliance Church, 3529 High St., Logansport. Guest speaker is Mariya Tatarin, who received a shoebox as a child in Ukraine.
Many of the shoeboxes
DAY TRIP TO BEEF HOUSE RESTAURANT & DINNER THEATER TO SEE FOUR OLD BROADS Saturday, April 12, 2025
Cost = $140 includes motorcoach transportation, buffet lunch, and ticket to see Four Old Broads. This hilarious show follows 4 ladies trying to solve a mystery at their retirement home, all while outsmarting Evil Nurse Pat and evade an Elvis impersonator so they can make it to their much-needed cruise.
BUS TRIP TO NEW ORLEANS May 17-23, 2025
Cost is $1299/person (based on double occupancy) and includes all lodging and transportation, tour of New Orleans, Jazz Dinner Cruise, cooking demonstration, Oak Alley and Houmas House Plantation tours, Mardi Gras World, swamp tour, tour of Laurel, MS to see homes from HGTV’s “Home Town”, and more! Non-refundable deposit of $100 will hold your seat. Full payment due April 28.
DAY TRIP TO BLUE GATE THEATER IN SHIPSHEWANA
TO SEE THE RISE & FALL OF MISS FANNIE’S BISCUITS
Monday September 8, 2025
Cost = $140 includes motorcoach transportation, dinner, and show ticket. Fannie makes the finals of the county baking contest, but other contestants start disappearing. Fannie and her retired cop friend Foster are on the case to investigate and solve the mystery, all while learning about baking contest and life itself.
ALBUQUERQUE BALLOON FIESTA
NEW MEXICO - October 3-8, 2025
Trip includes roundtrip airfare, 8 meals, attend Mass Ascension of Balloons, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center with Native American Dance, guided tour of Old Town Albuquerque, Evening Balloon Glow, Pecos National Historic Park, and tour of Santa Fe with San Miguel Mission and Loretto Chapel. Cost = $3399/person (based on double occupancy). Flyers are available. Limited seating.
DAY TRIP TO BEEF HOUSE RESTAURANT & DINNER THEATER TO SEE THE FATAL 50S AFFAIR
Saturday, November 1, 2025
Cost = $140 includes motorcoach transportation, lunch, and show ticket. The cast of 50s TV sitcom “Make Way for Winky” is on a reunion tour when an audience member is murdered. TV host Barry West leads the audience through the murder-mystery to discover the killer, finding out that the Winky cast is not as wholesome as they appear.
BUS TRIP TO BRANSON, MO
December 1-4, 2025
Cost $859/person (based on double occupancy), and includes all lodging and transportation, visits to Silver Dollar City, Butterfly Palace Experience, College of the Ozarks tour with Ralph Foster Museum plus dinner, performance of David at The Sights & Sounds Theater, Christmas Wonderland Show, meal at Mel’s Hard Luck Diner, Branson Belle Dinner Cruise, performance by Clay Cooper, and shopping at Grand Village Shops. $100 non-refundable deposit holds your seat. Waitlist only.
WINTER GETAWAY IN PANAMA
February 26-March 4, 2026
7 days, 8 meals, airport transfers. Tour UNESCO World Heritage Site of Casco Antiquo in Panama City, discover the operational marvel of the Panama Canal at the Miraflores Lock Visitor Center, sail to the Pacific Ocean on a partial transit of the Panama Canal, relax during a three-night stay at a beach resort. Air fare not included. Double occupancy $2149/person. Deposit of $250/person, final payment due November 24, 2025.
or Destinations by Donna at 574-835-0400
shipped from Fulton County went to Ukraine this year. This is a free event. All ages welcome and lunch will be served. See what God has done through this discipleship program.
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The Chain Gang meets at 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 15 at the Akron Public Library, 205 E. Rochester St., Akron. Spend the afternoon with those who enjoy crocheting, knitting, sewing, or needlepoint. Bring your materials with you. If you would like to learn more on one of these specialty arts, they are plenty who are willing to get you on your way. For more information visit akron.lib.in.us or call (574) 893-4113.
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Park board meeting will be at 6 p.m. Monday, April 14, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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County council meeting will be at 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 15, in the Fulton County Office Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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The Fulton County Board of Health will meet in regular session at 12:15 p.m. Tuesday, April 15, in the large conference room at the Fulton County Of-
fice Building, 125 E., Ninth St., Rochester.
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There will be First Aid, CPR and AED training from 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, April 16, at the Rochester Fire Department, 2006 E. SR 14, Rochester. For more information and to sign-up call (574) 223-6113. The training is held every third Wednesday.
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A free veterans breakfast will be at 8 a.m. Thursday, April 17, at Lifecare, 827 W. Thirteenth St., Rochester. RSVP is required, call (574) 223-4331. All veterans are welcome.
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Richland Center Alumni banquet will be at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, April 19, in the Richland Center room, at the Fulton County Museum. Cost is $17. Call in your reservation to Judy Evans at the Evans Agency (574) 224-6988 by Monday, April 14.
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The Akron Chamber of Commerce annual Easter egg hunt will be from 10:30 a.m. to noon, Saturday, April 19, at Pike Memorial Park, Akron. Over 6,000 eggs and prizes. There will be a spring animal petting zoo and pictures with the Easter bunny.
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Commissioner’s meeting will
be at 6 p.m. Monday, April 21, in the County Office Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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The next Akron town council meeting will be at 6 p.m. Monday, April 21, at Akron Town Hall, 206 W. Rochester St., Akron.
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City council meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 22, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Flower planters will be placed in downtown Fulton this spring. The containers were purchased with grant monies from Northern Indiana Community Foundation to the Fulton Liberty Lions Club.
Donation cans have been placed at businesses for the month of April. Citizens may choose to contribute funds needed to purchase flowers. For more information contact Linda Wade at (574) 857-6101.
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The Kewanna Food Pantry is open from 8:30-10:30 a.m. each Thursday. It is located on the 100 block of Toner Street, Kewanna. If you are a resident of Union, Wayne or Aubbeenaubbee township, you may use this service.
Women’s euchre scores for March
A women’s euchre group has released scores for the March euchre games. First Group Women’s Sunday Scores for the women’s Sunday group are:
Claudia Hartzler/Pat Howell, 968; Carolyn Wagoner/Liz Robinson, 896; Karen Notz/Liz Kelsey, 834; Joyce Ginther/Janet Cox, 818; Janelle Smith/Rhonda House, 785; Charlotte Miller/Stephenia Barkman, 778; Sandy Summe/Kathy Anderson, 657; Kim Zartman/ Elaine Swisher, 611.
Second Group Women’s Monthly Scores for the women’s monthly group are:
Kim Zartman/Elaine Swisher, 1184; Janelle Smith/Sandy Summe, 969; Claudia Hartzler/Pat Howell, 937; Diane Weaver-Gady/ Wynne Wilson, 932; Charlotte Miller/Stephenia Barkman, 890, Karen Notz/Liz Kelsey, 882; Joyce
VanDoren/Sue Brubaker; 871; Joyce Sroufe/Beth Nicodemus, 858; Joyce Ginther/Janet Cox, 845; Markie Edwards/Kathy Anderson; 798; Karmin Reeves/Karen Heltzel, 777; Judy Klobucher/Carol Shafer, 663.
Fulton-Liberty Lions annual Easter egg hunt April 19
The Fulton-Liberty annual Easter egg hunt is scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday, April 19, in Liberty Township Park, Fulton. It is open to children up to 12 years old. Age groups are three years and younger, 4-5 years, 6-8 years and 9-12 years of age. Meet at the pavilions, hunt is in the ball fields and playground. Leave the plastic eggs in the provided totes after finishing. Winners of $5 prizes will have pictures taken.
MANITOU MONSTERS —
Shown are members of the Manitou Monsters 11U travel baseball team who won the Ice Breaker tournament on Sunday, April 6, at Newton Park, Lakeville. In front from left are Declan House, Mavrik Halterman, Kellen House and Luke Thomas. In the middle row: Jordan Halterman, Titus Bowers, Lincoln Meredith, Cross Sliss and Griffin McKee. In the back row: Coaches Marcus Halterman, Mitch Bowers, Mark House and Chad Thomas.
Photo provided by Jayme Halterman.
Fulton County Chamber’s next Coffee and Conversation April 10
The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce will have its next Coffee and Conversation for chamber members on Thursday, April 10.
It starts at 7:30 a.m. at Rochester Dining, 835 SR 25, with the cost free and breakfast available for purchase.
People should register for the networking event by contacting the chamber at assistant@fultoncountychamber.com.
Free trees for Fulton County residents
The Friends of Fulton County Parks will be handing out free trees, providing care and answering
questions at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 3, at Prairie Edge Nature Park, located at the intersection of W.
Third St. and US 31 (1350 W. Third St.), Rochester. There are 400 trees available, first come, first served.
Life Care Center to hold Easter egg hunt April 12
Life Care Center of Rochester will be holding an Easter egg hunt at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 12, at Life
Care Center, 827 W. Thirteenth St., Rochester. The event is free and open to kids 10 and under. There
Tent revival to be held May 10-14
A tent revival with Kingdom Pursuit Ministries and New Life Church will be held 6:30 p.m. nightly, May 10-14, at the Fulton Coun-
ty 4-H Equestrian Center, 1157 W. Third St., Rochester. Open to the public. For more information on the ministry visit kpministry.org.
will be three separate age groups and prizes for each group.
CENTENNIAL FARM
Guise family of Fulton County was recently recognized for having a centennial farm during a Hoosier Homestead ceremony in Indianapolis. Photo provided by the Indiana State Department of Agriculture.
Rochester pharmacist fighting for passage of Indiana SB 140
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
Harry Webb’s been an independent pharmacist for 35 years.
However, his reimbursement for dispensing prescriptions has “gotten really bad in the last five or six years,” due to prescription benefit managers or PBMs, he said.
It’s why Webb, of Rochester, was fighting for the passage of Indiana Senate Bill 140. The bill, which passed the Indiana Senate in February with a vote of 47-2, was in the Indiana House Committee on Insurance. Webb said the committee was to vote on whether the bill would pass out of committee on Tuesday, April 8.
Therefore, he urged people to contact State Rep. Craig Snow of Winona Lake, who serves on the committee, before that date to vote yes, so the bill didn’t die.
Snow represents District 22, which includes North Manchester, the location of one of Webb’s three pharmacy locations. The other two Webb’s Family Pharmacy locations are in Akron and Rochester.
The bill, authored by State Sens. Ed Charbonneau, Tyler Johnson and Andy Zay, seeks not to eliminate PBMs, but make them more transparent, said Webb.
He testified in favor of the bill in front of the House Committee on Insurance on March 25. It was Snow who actually asked Webb, who’s on the Indiana Pharmacy Alliance’s legislative committee, to testify.
“When it went to his committee, I called him, and I scheduled a time to talk to him about this bill, and he invited me to come down and testify,” said Webb, adding he doesn’t know Snow’s personal feelings about the bill.
PBMs work by acting as a middleman in the prescription process.
“The pharmacy benefit manager determines eligibility and then processes the claim and contracts with the pharmacies,” Webb explained.
He noted PBMs were “originally a good thing” when they started in the 1960s, but the problem is they have turned into “an all-hidden process.”
Webb compared it to someone purchasing chocolates for $20 at a store using a credit card and having their mother pay the credit card bill.
“You expect your mom’s going to get this bill in the mail for $20 to pay, but in the case of a pharmacy benefit manager, they take that claim and then go to whomever made the item and say … ‘We’re going to be paying this claim, so she can buy this at that store, will you give us a break on it?’” Webb explained. “And they get them to pay so … in the future that box of chocolates is an approved thing,
and then they mark up my payment and they pay me $20 and they might send your mom a bill for $58 or $75, that’s called spread pricing.”
Webb said PBMs are able to spread price thanks to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.
“The pharmacy benefit manager has got the whole thing cloaked, so your employer is not to know you take (a certain drug), it’s a privacy thing … he may fire you if he knew you were taking a $1,000 drug, so HIPAA, the privacy role protects that benefit manager from disclosing what they’re even getting the bill for,” he said.
SB 140, as listed in its description on the Indiana General Assembly’s website, would work for PBM transparency by “(requiring) an insurer, a pharmacy benefit manager, or any other administrator of pharmacy benefits to ensure that a network utilized by the insurer, pharmacy benefit manager, or other administrator is reasonably adequate and accessible and file an annual report regarding the networks.”
Webb noted the language of the bill would also keep PBMs and health carriers from having the same owners as has happened through vertical integration, causing companies to make large profits from processing claims.
“CVS owns Aetna, Express Scripts owns Cigna and UnitedHealthCare has Optum, and Optum has physicians’ offices, and so those big three right there represent like 70% of the market,” said Webb.
He noted an audit in Mississippi found that “CVS, for instance, is paying themselves 2,250% more for a drug like omeprazole than they pay the independent pharmacy.”
Webb noted the rise of PBMs has caused the closure of pharmacies both in Indiana and elsewhere.
“I’m the only independent between Kokomo and South Bend,” he said. “There used to be 20 of us around here. There’s one in Fort Wayne. There’s one in Kokomo. There’s a handful of them up in the South Bend, Elkhart area.”
When Webb testified on the bill in front of the House committee, he was joined by his friend, Kip Burkett, who recently retired and closed his Rushville pharmacy.
“He’s just at a time of retirement, and he can’t get anybody to finance the debt when profit margins are so thin,” said Webb of Burkett.
He said he believed Gov. Mike Braun was supportive of the bill.
Webb noted Braun, while a U.S. senator last year, had actually questioned the Novo Nordisk CEO last year about drug price transparency.
“So he asked the CEO of Novo Nordisk, how much does it cost to
INDEPENDENT PHARMACIST
ter. The independent pharmacist was urging the passage of Indiana
businesses like his. Photo by Leah Sander.
make Ozempic, and of course he wouldn’t answer them,” said Webb. “He said, ‘You sell it in the United States for about $960. You sell it, it’s either in Australia or New Zealand, for $75, are you making money when you sell it (there) for $75?’ and he goes, ‘Yes, Senator, we are.’”
“The difference in the United States is we have to pay the plan and the pharmacy benefit manager a 70% rebate to get it on formulary,” explained Webb. “So when I fill that claim for Tippecanoe Valley Schools
for Ozempic, I’m losing $40, and CVS Caremark is making $670 for processing the claim, and then who knows what they’re actually billing the school corporation?”
Though Webb believes SB 140 will help him as a pharmacy owner, he thinks it will also benefit employers and consumers as well.
“This bill is trying to make all that transparent to where it’s a computer transaction. (PBMs) should get something for processing the claim just like Visa gets some-
thing for processing the claim, but it does not need to be (excessive),” he said. “If manufacturers were going to give 70% rebate to get on formulary, then that 70% rebate needs to go back to (an employer). That’s where it should go, or better yet, let’s just lower the price 70% and make everybody get it for that, right?”
“It should not cost the consumer a dime more to get prescriptions with this bill. It’s just making it fair,” said Webb.
Harry Webb is shown in his Webb’s Family Pharmacy location in Roches-
Senate Bill 140, which he believes will help
Indiana needs to retrain 82k+ workers annually to meet demand, Ivy Tech finds
By LESLIE BONILLA MUÑIZ Indiana Capital Chronicle
Indiana must retrain more than 82,000 working Hoosiers annually — with non-degree credentials — to meet workforce demand, Ivy Tech Community College has found.
And about 70% of job openings across four in-demand industries will require that additional training, according to the white paper, released Thursday. Non-degree credentials are industry-recognized certifications, certificates, licenses and other short-term training programs.
Ivy Tech is the nation’s largest single-accredited statewide community college system. Its analysis was conducted in collaboration with TEConomy Partners and funded by the Lilly Endowment.
“As Indiana’s workforce engine, Ivy Tech is committed to providing the high-quality, industry-aligned education and training that our state and em-
ployers need to drive economic growth and prosperity,” President Sue Ellspermann said in a news release.
“This research underscores the urgent need to help Hoosiers acquire new or specialized skills as technologies such as automation and artificial intelligence continue to transform our workforce and economy,” she added.
Indiana, like the rest of the country, faces a workforce crisis, per the report. The state’s industry productivity is “too low,” there aren’t enough skilled workers to staff growing industries and the working-age population is shrinking.
“Indiana needs to improve productivity with the workforce it already has,” the report continues. “Employers can no longer rely on a passive approach, waiting for talent to arrive fully skilled.”
It estimated demand in four industry sectors key to Indiana’s economy:
Advanced Manufacturing: An
estimated 18,300 annual positions will require credentials, including roles such as technicians, machinists, maintenance roles, and programmers.
Transportation and Logistics: Demand for 24,000 positions annually, including truck drivers, mechanics, and technicians, with a growing need for workers skilled in digital logistics and supply chain technologies.
Health care: Approximately 38,700 annual openings will
require credentials, with high demand for nurses, medical assistants, and healthcare technicians.
Information Technology: Demand for 1,300 tech professionals, including software developers, systems analysts, and cybersecurity specialists, in sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics. The report notes forecasting may be limited by employment system data and rapid industry changes.
“Workforce is the economic driver,” Indiana Secretary of Commerce David Adams said in the news release. “Our ability to develop, recruit and retain talent here in Indiana is critically important, and that’s why Gov. (Mike) Braun and I are so focused on supporting the upskilling and reskilling of our incumbent Hoosier workforce. These research findings underscore the fundamental paradigm shift employers are going to have to wrap their arms around as they continue building a workforce that will strengthen the Hoosier economy.”
In the report, Ivy Tech said it’s positioned as the “leading partner” to provide the skills training required to meet the demand. Currently, it enrolls more than 25,000 people annually in skills training and other workforce development programs — about 15% of its total enrollment.
Ivy Tech leadership will prioritize skills training delivery and scaling up related program offerings — but “cannot do this alone,” per the report.
“A collective state effort is required,” it says.
Employers should provide tuition and funding support, give data and feedback to training providers and tell their employees about training opportunities.
State government, industry associations, and economic or workforce development groups should promote training program funding and policies; enable data infrastructure and reporting capabilities; and convene others to boost partnerships, develop common curricula and more.
Postsecondary institutions — along with career, technical and vocational providers — should invest in course offerings, inform skills trainees about enrollment in occupational pathways, raise awareness that completed coursework can convert to credits for academic programs of study, and so on.
PLUMBING APPRENTICE
Sara Spears, a 2019 graduate of Ivy Tech, is pictured in 2022 while working as a plumbing apprentice and member of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 392. Courtesy of Ivy Tech Community College.
By CASEY SMITH Indiana Capital Chronicle
A House measure seeking to reduce financial strain on construction contractors made additional headway in the legislature recently and now heads to the Senate floor.
Key elements of House Bill 1033 would establish a uniform, maximum amount of retainage for certain state and local public
works projects. Retainage is the portion of payment withheld from a contractor or subcontractor until a construction project reaches substantial or full completion.
Under current state law, one retainage option requires no less than 6% and no more than 10% of an agreed-upon contract price for a public works project to be withheld until the work is halfway done. A second option in
code permits no less than 3% and no more than 5% of the contract price to be retained from final payment until work is “substantially complete.”
Indiana law does not currently regulate retention for private construction projects.
The latest version of the bill, authored by Republican Rep. Jim Pressel, would eliminate the minimum retainage requirement for publicly funded projects and
Solar and battery storage microgrid: A smart investment
Fulton County REMC has made a groundbreaking investment in renewable energy with its solar and battery storage system microgrid, a first for the state. This forward-thinking initiative has not only saved its members money over the past three years but has also helped delay rate increases and provided a financial benefit to the community. By reducing operational costs and optimizing energy distribution, this microgrid serves as a model for how modern energy solutions can create a more stable and sustainable power future.
Cost Savings
And Energy Efficiency
The integration of solar power with battery storage has proven to be a game-changer for FCREMC members. While coal and gas remain essential for ensuring reliable energy, integrating a microgrid is a smart solution. It enables renewable energy sources like solar to complement the system, enhancing grid flexibility and overall resilience. By capturing and storing excess energy during peak sunlight hours, the system ensures a steady power supply even when solar generation is low. This helps to minimize the impact of fluctuating energy costs. As a result, members of FCREMC have collectively saved $390,000 over the past three years, savings that will continue to grow as the microgrid operates efficiently.
Beyond direct savings, the microgrid has played a crucial role in stabilizing electricity rates. Without this investment, rate increases would have been necessary much sooner, impacting households and businesses alike. The ability to delay these increases is a testament to the long-term financial benefits of renewable energy solutions and battery energy storage systems.
Economic Impact
On Fulton County
The benefits of the microgrid extend beyond energy savings, the yearly property tax revenue for Fulton County has increased 600% compared to yearly revenue at the same property before the microgrid was installed. These funds strengthen the overall local economy. This additional revenue underscores the value of investing in innovative energy solutions that not only benefit FCREMC members but also support the broader community.
utilized in this microgrid employs the same lithium-ion technology found in everyday devices such as cell phones, laptops, tablets, smartwatches, and even larger applications like golf carts, car batteries, and marine batteries. This proven technology ensures reliability and efficiency, making it an ideal choice for large-scale energy storage. By using advanced battery technology, the microgrid can store excess solar energy and deploy it when needed most, such as during peak demand hours or power outages. This enhances grid stability and ensures that members have access to reliable electricity at all times.
A Model For The Future
The success of FCREMC’s microgrid demonstrates how renewable energy and innova-
tive battery storage technology can work together to create a more sustainable and financially viable energy future. As energy demands continue to evolve, investments in solar and battery storage will play a crucial role in securing affordable, reliable electricity for rural communities.
By harnessing the power of renewable energy and cutting-edge battery technology, FCREMC is leading the way in smart energy solutions. The financial and economic benefits speak for themselves — proof that sustainability and cost savings can go hand in hand. As more communities look toward similar projects, FCREMC stands as a shining example of how modern energy strategies can create a lasting positive impact for both residents and local economies.
lower the maximum withholding percentages by 4% for both retainage options: From 10% to 6% of completed work until the project is half-done; and from 5% to 3% of completed work until the project is substantially complete.
The Senate Pensions and Labor Committee unanimously approved the plan. The House previously voted 84-1 in favor of the bill.
The goal, Pressel said, is to lower the dollars withheld and help improve cash flow for construction companies while work is underway — especially for contractors whose work is finished months, even years, before the overall project is completed.
“The best example I can give is the first guy in — that’s going to be the excavator. Next guy in is the foundation guy, or the concrete guy, that does the footings and the walls. And then the structure goes up from there,” Pressel, of Rolling Prairie, explained. “If I’m the excavator, or one of the
first guys, current law allows up to about 10% of my final payment to be withheld. So, I have to wait for those dollars until the job is substantially completed. The policy question is, is that the right amount that should be withheld from that contract?”
Fewer Dollars Withheld Retainage, common practice for construction contracts, is typically included in construction agreements to ensure contractors complete the job according to specifications — and serves as a financial motivator to get work finished.
It also provides public agencies with leverage for resolving disputes that might arise over incomplete or defective work.
But Pressel, along with a handful of Hoosier business representatives, noted that overly burdensome retainage can strain cash flow for contractors who often spend their own money to pay for the work between periodic payments.
Indiana elections head calls for upgrades to voting verification service
By LESLIE BONILLA MUNIZ Indiana Capital Chronicle
Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales has joined 20 others in asking new Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem for changes to a federal citizenship verification service — including that it be free to use.
“I am joining my colleagues in requesting that the Department of Homeland Security take swift action to make the … program more efficient and accessible to states,” Morales said in a recent news release. He is Indiana’s top elections official.
“Hoosiers deserve to trust in the election process, and that starts with ensuring that non-citizens are not allowed to vote. Only U.S. Citizens can vote in Indiana. Period,” Morales continued.
The Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements, or SAVE, initiative lets registered government agencies verify immigration and citizenship status for people seeking public benefits or licenses, according to administrator U.S.
Citizenship and Immigration Services. It’s a component of Noem’s agency.
Morales and other elections officials indicated they use SAVE to detect when non-citizens try to register to vote or cast a ballot.
“As President (Donald) Trump has explicitly conveyed, ensuring non-citizens do not vote in our elections is crucial to protecting the integrity of elections in our respective states,” their Feb. 27 letter reads. “However, to vigorously and successfully assume this charge, improvements addressing current limitations within the program are vital.”
Recent voter roll audits show attempts by non-citizens to vote are rare, ABC News reported.
Morales and his Republican counterparts asked Noem for five changes, including that SAVE allow them to look up multiple people at once instead of the current, time-consuming one-at-a-time approach.
They also requested that the system work with identifiers common in election work, like dates of birth,
Social Security Numbers and driver’s license numbers. SAVE uses Alien Registration Numbers and other identifiers prominent in immigration enforcement.
And they said SAVE should be free. The program currently has a user fee and per-search charges.
“Considering election officials
are utilizing this system to ensure non-citizens are not actively voting in state and federal elections, there should be no cost to election officials using federal resources to protect the integrity of said elections,” the secretaries of state wrote.
They also asked for guidance on how and when to use SAVE — amid
“conflicting” court orders — and for the names of naturalization applicants who say they’ve registered to vote or cast a ballot.
Morales previously joined Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita to request federal citizenship verification of nearly 600,000 Indiana voters, but faced pushback.
What is occupational therapy?
By JENNIFER LAURO, OTR Woodlawn Health
Editor’s Note: Jennifer Lauro is an occupational therapist at Woodlawn Health
Occupational therapy, or OT, is a type of therapy that helps people with everyday activities, also called “occupations,” such
as dressing, writing, working or playing. People may have trouble with these activities because of injury, illness or disability. An OT helps people improve skills they need for daily life.
For example, if someone has trouble holding a pencil because of a hand injury, an OT will teach them ways to work on the
JENNIFER LAURO, OTR
strength and coordination needed to hold it more comfortably or use special tools to help hold the pencil. An occupational therapy visit allows you and the therapist to work together to understand what you need and find ways to help you reach your goals.
OT’s work in a variety of settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, long term facilities, mental health facilities, health agencies, outpatient clinics, primary care offices, schools, community centers, shelters, private practices, assistive technology companies and consulting companies.
To become an OT, you need an undergraduate degree before obtaining a master’s degree in occupational therapy, national certification, a state license and ongoing continuing education. This will allow you to help individuals improve their function and quality of life.
Woodlawn Health provides occupational therapy services and will be happy to help you. Some of the most common diagnosis seen by the occupational therapy department include shoulder pain, rotator cuff repairs, total shoulder replacement, arthritis, lymphedema, wrist fractures, tendonitis, trigger finger, carpal tunnel syndrome, stroke and tennis elbow to name a few. You can reach Woodlawn
sionals at (765)
SECRETARY OF STATE Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales, center, meets with Scott County leaders in February 2025. Photo from Morales’ official X account.
Rochester spring sports update: Audrey Wagner breaks school 300 hurdles mark
By VAL TSOUTSOURIS Sports Editor, RTC
Track Rochester senior Audrey Wagner broke the school record in the 300 meter hurdles in 47.94 seconds in a three-way meet against Caston and host Plymouth Thursday, April 3. Rochester lost to Plymouth 89-42 but defeated Caston 80-38.
Wagner broke Sarah Eiler’s previous mark of 48.32 seconds in 2000. Wagner’s previous personal best was 48.80 at last year’s Kokomo regional.
Other Rochester winners included Kyra Doran, who won the long jump with a leap of 15-5 ½; and Ashlynn Weyant, who won both the discus with a throw of 97-11 and the shot put with a heave of 32-1.
Other Rochester scorers included Allyson Calloway, who was second
in both the 800 and 1,600; Doran, who was second in both the 100 hurdles and 200 meters; the 4 x 100 relay team of Maddy Bailon, Kyla Conley, Wagner and Doran, who was second in 54.18 seconds; and Taylor Navara, who was fourth in the high jump with a clearance of 4-2.
In the boys meet, Rochester lost to Plymouth 74-49 but beat Caston 80-41.
Harrison Dunwoody won both the 110 hurdles in 16.07 seconds and the 300 hurdles in 44.20, and Mason Hisey won both the discus with a throw of 147-1 and the shot put with a toss of 42-9 ½. Trevor Walley won the pole vault, clearing 12-0, and Grant Bailey won the 1,600 in 5:00.38.
Bailey was also second in the 800. Other second-place finishers included Bryce Baugher in the 400, Leandro Javier in the 3,200, Maddox Jewell in the long jump, Preston Luhnow in the high jump, Liam Pinder in the discus and Jabez Yarber in the 200.
Clarence Garrett was third in
the 110 hurdles, and Tyler Reese was third in the shot put.
Baugher was fourth in the long jump.
Rochester’s first home meet is 5 p.m. Thursday, April 10 against John Glenn.
Softball
Brailyn Hunter doubled and walked and drove in three runs, and Darah Strasser doubled and tripled and drove in two runs for the Rochester softball team in a season-opening 7-6 win over host Mishawaka Thursday, April 3.
Bria Rensberger pitched a seven-hitter with four walks and 11 strikeouts in the circle. She also had a walk and an RBI at the plate.
Mylee Heinzmann added a hit and an RBI, and Aubrey Miller and Jadyn Field each had a double. Mia Howdeshell had a single.
Rochester won despite committing four errors. Four of Mishawaka’s runs were unearned.
Baseball
Tanner Reinartz hit the game-tying two-run homer in the bottom of the sixth and later
New books at Akron Carnegie Public Library
Akron Carnegie Public Library announces new books it has received.
“Grave Danger” by James Grippando — Jack Swyteck must defend a woman accused of kidnapping her niece while uncovering deadly secrets about the parents as political forces and international law complicate the case in the latest addition to the series following “Goodbye Girl.”
“To Bring You Back” by Emily Conrad — When Adeline Green’s now famous high school crush descends on her quiet life, a public spotlight threatens to expose her deepest regret. Gannon Vaughn and his rock band, Awestruck, have conquered the music industry, but he can’t overcome his feelings for Adeline.
She may have been right to cut off contact between them years ago, but thanks to the grace of God, he’s a changed man. Will grace be enough to bring them back to God and each other?
“We All Live Here” by JoJo Moyes — Lila Kennedy has a lot on her plate. A broken marriage, two wayward daughters, a house that is falling apart and an elderly stepfather who seems to have quietly moved in. Her career is in freefall and her love life is complicated.
So when her real dad, a man she has barely seen since he ran off to
Hollywood 35 years ago, suddenly appears on her doorstep, it feels like the final straw. But it turns out even the family you thought you could never forgive might have something to teach you, about love and what it actually means to be family.
“The Big Empty” by Robert Crais — The best detective around, Elvis Cole, heads to Rancha, where an ex-con named Sadie Givens and her daughter, Anya, might have a line on the missing man for his case.
But when Elvis finds himself shadowed by a gang of vicious criminals, the missing persons cold case becomes far more sinister. The case flips on its head, victims become predators, predators become prey and the question becomes: Can Elvis Cole save them all from this nightmare?
“Battle Mountain” by C. J. Box — When Joe Pickett gets a call from the governor asking for help finding his son-in-law, who has gone missing in the Sierra Madre mountain range, he enlists the help of a local, a rookie game warden named Susan Kany.
As Nate Romanowski and fellow falconer Geronimo Jones circle closer to their prey, Joe and Susan follow the nearly cold trail to Warm Springs. Little do Nate and Joe know that their separate journeys
are about to converge at Battle Mountain.
“The Queen of Fives” by Alex Hay — A master con woman in 1898 London, Quinn le Blanc, has just five days to impersonate a wealthy heiress and ensnare a duke into marriage, but as she infiltrates the high society of the Kendal family, she discovers that deception and hidden motives run on all sides.
“The Body in the Bookstore” by Ellie Alexander — Bookseller Annie Murray is thrilled when the mystery-themed book festival she sets up seems poised for success. But events take a shocking turn when a body is discovered hidden behind the shelves, and it’s revealed that the victim is Annie’s old college acquaintance.
Determined to ensure the festival’s success and save the small town of Redwood Grove from a killer, Annie begins piecing together clues with the help of her friends.
“Paranoia” by James Patterson and James O. Born — At every death scene, Bennett says a prayer over the victim. But recently, too many of departed have been fellow cops. “I want you to look at these deaths on special assignment,” NYPD Inspector Celeste Cantor says. “Report only to me.” Bennett excels as a solo investigator. But he’s chasing a killer who feeds on isolation and paranoia.
pitched a scoreless seventh for the save as the Rochester baseball team rallied to beat Caston 11-10 at wet Bob Copeland Field in the home opener Friday, April 4.
Freshman Linden Wilburn drove in the run that put the Zebras ahead for good in the sixth after Reinartz’s homer.
Eli Holloway walked against Reinartz with one out in the seventh and stole second. Gavin Mollenkopf grounded into a fielder’s choice with third baseman Carson Paulik throwing to second to nab Holloway.
Reinartz then picked Mollenkopf off first base to end the game.
Rochester trailed 9-3 going into the bottom of the fifth but scored five times with help from Reinartz’s two-run double and an RBI double from Paulik. Paulik and Zakk Parks would later score on errors.
Lane Halterman’s sacrifice fly in the top of the sixth gave Caston a 10-8 lead, but Reinartz clobbered a long homer onto Indiana 14 to tie the game. Four batters later, Wilburn singled home Brant Beck, who had singled and advanced to second on a passed ball.
Rochester opened their season with a 12-1 win in five innings over host Lafayette Jeff at Loeb
Stadium Thursday, April 3.
On Thursday, Rochester’s Drew Bowers hit a soft squibber down the first baseline against Lafayette Jefferson in the season opener at Loeb Stadium when the ball, and with it the Zebras’ fortunes, took a left turn.
When it was over, Rochester sent 18 men to the plate and scored 12 runs in earning a sudden, shocking 12-1 win in five innings.
Paulik survived a liner off his leg to the first batter of the game and pitched a four-hitter, and the Zebras played errorless defense behind him.
Rochester did not have a hit through the first 4 innings against Lafayette Jeff starter Ethan Lane, but at one point in the fifth inning, 12 consecutive Rochester batters reached base.
Rochester was playing at Loeb Stadium for the first time since a 7-4 win over Benton Central in a Class 2A regional June 1, 2024.
Ben Pickering scored the lone Lafayette Jeff run on a steal of home on a botched rundown play in the bottom of the third to give the Bronchos a 1-0 lead.
Rochester had four baserunners in the first four innings on two walks and two errors but still trailed with one out in the fifth when Bowers stepped up.
BUYERBEWAREThePapersIncorporatedcannotscreenalladvertisements toeliminatepossibilitiesoffraudor misleadinginformation.Ifitsoundstoo goodtobetrue,itusuallyis.Persons respondingtoadsareadvisedtocontact theBetterBusinessBureauinyourareaor theIndianaSecretaryofState’sFraud Hotlinebeforesendinganymoney. 1-800-223-8791
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MULTI-FAMILYSALE.Kidsclothes,adult clothes,gentlyusedtoysandhousehold items.Fridaynoon-5pm,Saturday8amnoon.810MitchellDr.
APRIL25-26,8-4,4866N750W,Leiters Ford.Tools,propaneheater,pocket knives,Singertreadlesewingmachine, electronics,exerciseequipment,patio furniture,household/kitchen,CDs/DVDs, video/boardgames,books.
…is coordinating:
NICE, CLEAN ESTATE SALE!
Beautiful Antique furniture, Olhausen Pool Table w/Ping Pong Tabletop, nice furniture, antique/ vintage glassware and dishware, jewelry, kitchen/vintage kitchen, vintage Pyrex & Revereware, housewares, linens, books, Christmas decor, Dept. 56 Dickens Village, garden, vintage wicker furniture, LJ Wagner rattan furniture, and so much more! Pictures/details on estatesales.net Sunday, April 13
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Home Services C070
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JacuzziBathRemodelcaninstallanew, custombathorshowerinaslittleasone day.Foralimitedtime,wavingallinstallationcosts!(Additionaltermsapply.Subject tochangeandvarybydealer.Offerends 6/30/25.)1-844-501-3208
Lawn & Garden C090
TROY-BILTTILLERREPAIR.Mantistiller repair.BS&Kohlerenginerepair.Special onchainsawsharpening.AthensGarage, 9-12,2-5pm,closed12-2forlunch.
Mechanical Services C100
WALNUTREPAIR, starters,alternators, generators, costumehydraulichoses& batterycables,tractorrepair,magneto repair,Mon.-Sat.dawntodusk. 574-892-5968
Roofing C120
AGINGROOF?NEWHOMEOWNER? STORMDAMAGE?Youneedalocal expertproviderthatproudlystandsbehind theirwork.Fast,freeestimate.Financing available.Call1-888-878-9091Havezip codeofpropertyreadywhencalling!
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TV Satellite C180
DIRECTVStream-Carriesthemostlocal MLBGames!ChoicePackage$89.99/mo for12mosStreamon20devicesatonce. HBOMaxincludedfor3mos(w/Choice Packageorhigher.)Nocontractorhidden fees!Somerestrictionsapply.CallIVS 1-866-859-0405
Misc. Service C200
Bath&showerupdatesinaslittleas1 day!Affordableprices-Nopaymentsfor 18months!Lifetimewarranty&professionalinstalls.Senior&militarydiscountsavailable.1-877-543-9189
ConsumerCellular-samereliable,nationwidecoverageasthelargestcarriers.No long-termcontract,nohiddenfeesfree activation.Allplansfeatureunlimitedtalk& text,startingatjust$20/mo.Call 1-877-751-0866
Auction Sales A010
3-ACREHAYPASTUREforrent. 708-271-3546
GRASSROUNDBALESFORSALE,$60. Storedinside.Call574-298-2407.
LEISURE, RECREATIONAL
199218FT.SUNTRACKERBassBuggy fishingpontoon.Completelyrefurbished withnewmarineplywood,deck,25/30 Suzukioutboard(witha3yr.warranty), helmstationandthreefishingchairs,battery,fueltank,fishfinder,GPS.Makeoffer! Call574-930-0508.
GUN SHOW
FOP Lodge 143 - Rochester Saturday, April 12 8am-3pm (EST)
PortableOxygenConcentratorMayBe
CoveredbyMedicare!Reclaimindependenceandmobilitywiththecompactdesignandlong-lastingbatteryofInogen One.Freeinformationkit!Call 877-305-1535
Health/Fitness
P070
DentalinsurancefromPhysiciansMutual InsuranceCompany.Coveragefor400+ procedures.Realdentalinsurance-not justadiscountplan.GetyourfreeInformationKitwithdetails!1-855-526-1060www. dental50plus.com/ads#6258
Misc. Merchandise P090
Eliminateguttercleaningforever!LeafFilter,themostadvanceddebris-blocking gutterprotection.SchedulefreeLeafFilter estimatetoday.20%offEntirePurchase. 10%Senior&MilitaryDiscounts.Call 1-833-610-1936
Prepareforpoweroutagestodaywitha GeneracHomeStandbyGenerator.Act nowtoreceiveafree5-Yearwarrantywith qualifyingpurchase*Call1-855-948-6176 todaytoscheduleafreequote.It’snotjust agenerator.It’sapowermove.
PETS
Dogs/Cats/Pets Q010
CKCDACHSUNDPUPPIES,DOB 12/30/24,short/longhaired,vetchecked. 574-870-7555,Kewanna.Callortextfor morequestions.
REAL ESTATE SALES
WesleyFinancialGroup,LLCTimeshare CancellationExpertsOver$50,000,000in timesharedebt&feescancelledin2019. Getfreeinfopackage&learnhowtoget ridofyourtimeshare!Freeconsultations. Over450positivereviews.833-308-1971
Wanted To Buy S100
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REAL ESTATE RENTALS
Buildings For Rent U030
LIONSCLUBBUILDING-Specialoccasions,receptions,graduations,reunions. 574-223-0563
MobileHelpAmerica’spremiermobile medicalalertsystem.Whetheryou’re homeoraway.Forsafety&peaceofmind. Nolongtermcontracts!Freebrochure! Call1-888-489-3936
TRINITYCHURCHCOMMUNITYHALL. Meetings,birthdays,anniversaries,receptions.574-223-2531andleaveamessage.
2-BEDROOMHOMEforrent.331Indiana Ave.,Rochester.574-253-7733
LOOKINGFORACAMPERtorentona propertylotperiodicallyortobuy. Rochester/Culver/Logansportarea.Wantingtobeclosertomygreat-grandchildren. 812-572-8914 Misc.
TRANSPORTATION
BUYINGJUNKVEHICLES.Payingcash! Topdollar,willpickup.Callanytime 574-505-0855 Autos Wanted W020
Mark Moore Estate Auction
10 a.m. Saturday, April 12. Located at 875 N. SR 19, Akron. Square body truck collection, auto parts, parts vehicles, shop tools, trailer, shipping containers, tractors, welders, hoists, advertising. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction. com.
Misc. Auto W030
DonateYourCartoVeteransToday!Help andSupportourVeterans.Fast-FREE pickup.100%taxdeductible.Call 1-800-245-0398
Online Jewelry And Silver Auction Bidding open until 7 p.m, Sunday, April 20. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Gold and silver jewelry, diamonds, gemstones, turquoise, sterling collectibles, watches, World War II pins. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Smalley Family Farm Auction
6 p.m. Monday, April 21. Located at 8900 S. 775W, Claypool. 28.82 acres on one parcel. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
Online Coin And Currency Auction Bidding open until 6 p.m. Sunday, April 13. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Silver dollars, silver rounds, barber coins, silver certificates, proof sets, coin books, standing and walking halves. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Columbia Elementary to have kindergarten roundup April 17
Columbia Elementary School is having a kindergarten roundup from 12:30-5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 17, at Rochester Community Schools’ Learning Center, 1818
Park Road.
Registration is required. For more information, visit zebras. net or call Columbia at (574) 2232501.
Akron Lions to hold fish fry April 12
Akron Lions will hold a fish fry at 4 p.m. or until sold out on Saturday, April 12, at the Akron Commu-
nity Center, 815 Rural St., Akron. The group that will be manning the bake sale is Omega Church group.
Wings Etc. fundraiser for Rochester man is April 10
A fundraiser to help Jay Reichert of Rochester is Thursday, April 10, at Wings Etc. in Rochester.
The event goes the entirety of the restaurant’s hours that day, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., with online orders also eligible. People need to take a picture of one of the flyers about the event hanging up around Rochester or on the Jay Reichert’s Fight Page on Facebook to show their server for the donation to be made. They can also use code D2D0018 when online ordering at Wings that day to give.
CRAFTY CORNER — Adult crafty corner participants had a fun time making bunny rabbit wall hangings during their class on Thursday, March 27, at Akron Public Library. Shown from left are Tracy Murphy, Amy VothReed, Sandra Klinger and Merry Gaerte. Photo provided by Akron Public Library.
CRAFTING TOGETHER
crafty corner participants created bunny rabbit wall hangings during their session on
March 27, at Akron Public Library. From left are Bonnie Dunbar, Ruth Schneider, Adrian Poisel and Kathy Isbell. Photo provided by Akron Public Library.
PRESCHOOL STORY HOUR — Preschool story hour children enjoyed making pictures of ice cream cones with puffy paint on Wednesday, March 26, at Akron Public Library. Photo provided by Akron Public Library.