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Know Your neighbor

The heart of his church By WENDY MELTON Staff Writer For 27 years, Pastor Don Meyer has been the heart of his church. When he was offered the pastorate at the Church of the Nazarene, it felt almost like coming home. Raised in Fort Wayne, Meyer knew the Rochester area well. His family regularly passed through town on trips to Teffit to visit his grandmother. When asked about his faith, Meyer said, “I found the Lord, or he found me, at the beginning of my sophomore year of high school. It radically changed my life. After I found the Lord, it was a complete transformation - language, thoughts, goals, direction.” He admits people were not always fond of him at first, but that soon changed, and he began to consider ministering to others. “I got really involved with the teen group at church. A few

people suggested I might enjoy ministry,” he said. “It was a long road of thinking I would, then getting away from it, and then getting back to it. I was headed toward pastoring, and then I thought, ‘I can’t do this.’ I went into broadcasting and did well, but I knew it wasn’t what I should be doing. So I went back to school and finished my education to become a pastor.” “When I received a call to pastor here, I thought, ‘Wow, of all places,’” Meyer said. “My wife and kids moved here in 1998, so we’ve been here for 27 years.” During that time, Meyer has seen many changes in the community. “It’s a great place to raise kids,” he said. “I was grateful my children could be raised in one town. Most pastors move around a lot.” Meyer and his wife, Kyra, enjoy being active in the community. They participate in many interfaith efforts, includ-

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ing hosting the local warming center. Working alongside Mayor Trent Odell, several area churches and community members, the warming center provides safety and comfort - as well as fellowship. Each night, Meyer shares a traditional bedtime story and spends time visiting with guests. “Pastoring is a potter’s wheel for a person,” Meyer said. “The Lord shapes you and shapes you. My goal is to live in the faith, make the faith known and defend it well. I want to help others do the same.” Meyer and his wife are also passionate about ministering to other pastors and their spouses. “Pastors don’t have many places to go for support,” he said. “I’m glad we can help provide that.” Meyer maintains a close connection with his congregation. “It was fairly large for several years, but it’s much smaller now,” he said. “We all know each other. It’s a very relaxed group of people.” His love for both the church and the community is evident when he speaks about his ministry. One of the highlights of his pastoral career was a community Easter service held in 2019 at the Rochester High School gymnasium. Several local churches joined together for a combined service. “We all decided to dispense with our individual Easter Sunday services,” Meyer said. “We combined our praise bands, and between 700 and 800 people attended - more than our original combined attendance. People from out of town thought it was phenomenal. That’s trust and unity.”

PASTOR DON MEYER

Applications open for Indiana senate page program The Indiana Senate is accepting applications for the 2026 Senate Page Program, State Sen. Stacey A. Donato, R-Logansport, announced. Through the full-day program, students in grades six through 12 tour Indiana’s Statehouse, listen to debates from the Senate floor

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and help staff with age-appropriate tasks. Students also have the opportunity to meet their state senator. “Our Senate Page Program opens the doors of our Statehouse to young Hoosiers so they can experience state government and learn about the General Assembly up close,” Donato said. “The program is such a valuable opportunity for students to grow their civic knowledge outside the classroom, and I highly encourage interested students to look into this opportunity.” The Senate Page Program will begin in January and continue throughout the legislative session. Pages are scheduled for Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. They begin their day at 8:30 a.m. and are dismissed at 3:30 p.m. Groups serve together on Wednesdays. Indiana law permits eligible students to serve as a Senate Page one day per legislative session and receive an excused absence from school for their participation. Positions fill quickly, so it is important to apply early. Students or parents should submit an application corresponding with the date they would like to page. Once the application is submitted, the Senate Page Office will reach out to confirm the paging date and ensure all required participation forms are signed. For more information or to apply, visit IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Page-Program.

Correction Lisa Fellers of the Rochester Downtown Partnership was incorrectly identified in the frontpage photo on Dec. 3 as Linda Fellers. We apologize for the error.

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FOOD DRIVE — Akron Elementary Student Council members recently led a food drive at the school in November. They collected 657 pounds of food for the United We Stand Ministries of Akron. They delivered the food to the pantry in Akron with the help of their school sponsors. Photo provided by Bonnie Dunbar.

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Let’s Study The Bible -

The birth of Jesus Christ (Read: Luke 2:1-20) “ A n d ( M a r y ) brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and By THE REV. laid him in a manger; be- RON PURKEY cause there was no room for them in the inn.” (Luke 2:7). The Birth Of The Messiah (Luke 2:1-7) “And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered” (Luke 2:6). That Jesus would be born in Bethlehem was ordained by God long before Caesar Augustus made his decree (Micah 5:2; Acts 15:18). The difficult three-day journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem may have taken longer because of Mary’s condition. Some preachers and some people who present Christmas pageants like to condemn the innkeeper because he did not give Mary a decent place to give birth to her baby, but the Bible is silent

about that matter. The “inn” was probably a typical Eastern caravansary, a two-story structure (the lower level was for animals) built around a courtyard where travelers could camp. Jesus must have been born in one of the cattle stalls; the feeding trough was his bed. (See Philippians 2:1-11 and 2 Corinthians 8:9.) The Announcement To Humbel Shepherds (Luke 2:814). “And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid” (Luke 2:9). In that day, shepherds were considered to be at the lowest rung of the social ladder. Their work not only kept them away from the temple and the synagogue, but it made them ceremonially unclean. Yet in his grace, God gave the first announcement of the Savior’s birth to lowly shepherds! (See Luke 1:52.) The First Human Ambassadors (Luke 2:15-20). The shepherds hurried to see the baby and then told everybody what they had seen and heard (Acts 4:20). The Greek. verb for “found” in verse 16 means “to find after a search.” The Magi had a

star to guide them (Matthew 2), but all the shepherds had was the sign given them by the angel (verse 12). The shepherds, like the angels before them, glorified and praised God (verse 20). What a privilege this angel had to tell about the birth of the Messiah! We have the privilege of sharing the good news with the world, and angels cannot take our place. The “singing army” of angels proclaimed the glory of the Lord. Luke’s Gospel is filled with praise (Luke 1:64; 2:13, 28; 5:2526; 7:16; 13:13; 17:15, 18; 18:43; 19:37; 23:47; 24:53). Since 27 B.C., the famous Roman peace, the “Pax Romana,” had been in effect, but there was no real peace on earth, nor can there be until the Prince of Peace reigns on David’s throne. “And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11). Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines free at rcpbibleoutlines. com. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.

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Obituaries Don Trigg

Christopher Paul Morton

Beloved Husband, Father And Grandfather

Avid Writer

Don Trigg, 76, Rochester, was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away at 1:26 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, 2025, at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis. On Feb. 15, 1949, Donald Lee Trigg was born in South Bend, to Donald M. and Letha A. Homan Trigg. Growing up, he shared his childhood with two DON TRIGG sisters and two brothers. Proudly, he graduated with the Class of 1967 from Rochester High School. Answering the call of patriotism, Don served with the United States Army. During his service stint, he served as a member of the military police. Don received the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Marksman prior to his honorable discharge. Don and Susan Elaine Parmley were married on Dec. 29, 1990. They have shared 35 years of life’s adventures. With a strong work ethic, Don was dedicated to the Torx-Camcar-Accument Global Technologies; serving steadfastly while they evolved, as a machinist for over a half century of service. Gifted with his hands, he also loved to paint and had a second job painting homes and businesses in the Rochester area for many years. He would work his third-shift job and go right to painting after he got off work at Accument. A man of strong faith, Don was a devoted member of the Church of the Heartland. Occasional travel was an activity Sue and Don enjoyed. Their favorite destinations were Las Vegas and Ft. Myers. They also loved day trips to Four Winds Casino. Relaxing at home, Don would be found in his favorite chair cheering on the Colts, Cubs, and Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish. On the end table was his go-to snack: bean dip and chips. Perfect for munching! As the patriarch of the Trigg family, Grandpa Don oversaw four generations. He was very proud of his grandchildren and the arrival of his four great-grandsons, attending their school activities and sporting events. When family gatherings and celebrations arose, Grandpa Don was always ready to lend a listening ear to hear the latest and celebrate their accomplishments. Left to cherish Don’s memory are his wife, Sue; two sons, Michael (Jen) Trigg and Jason Trigg; daughter, Ashlee (Alex) Kline; mother-inlaw, Carol Parmley; 14 grandchildren, Andrea (Taran) Powell, Mikaela (Fiance Tyson Prater) Trigg, Maryea Meadows-Trigg, Oliver Trigg, Jena Chandler, Caleb Chandler, Austin (Fiance Katie) Trigg, Diamond Coker, Alexis (Fiance Brennan Fry) Trigg, Aleah Trigg, Caleb Wallace, Xavier Kline, Nevaeh Paschke, and Olivia Paschke; four great-grandsons, Ian, Emmett, Jackson and Theo; sister, Mary Tipton; and several nieces and nephews. Preceding Don in death are his parents; son, Christopher Alan Trigg on Feb. 4, 2018; grandson, Zach Trigg in 2021; and siblings, Carol Webb, David Trigg, and Keith Trigg. A celebration of the life of Donald Lee Trigg will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, in the Church of the Heartland, 321 E. Eighth St., Rochester, with Pastor Jim Howard officiating. Military Honors will be conducted by the Fulton County Veterans Honor Guard and the U. S. Army Honors Team. Burial will follow at a later date at Rochester’s IOOF Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Fulton County Cancer Fund, through the Northern Indiana Community Foundation, 227 E. Ninth St., Rochester, IN 46975. The Good Family Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements. Online expressions of sympathy may be made to his family at goodfamilyfh.com.

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Christopher Paul Morton left this world unexpectedly at 11:25 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025, in St. Joseph Regional Medical Center. Born on July 26, 1971, in Indianapolis, Chris’s journey through life was marked by an unwavering dedication to his loved ones, a passion for knowledge, and a heart that found joy in CHRISTOPHER the simple pleasures of life. PAUL MORTON Chris was the beloved son of Doug and Lois (Bailey) Morton, Rochester. They instilled in him the values of family and education from a young age. He carried these values throughout his life, graduating as Salutatorian from Rochester High School in 1990, where he excelled in tennis and golf. His academic journey continued at the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, where he proudly earned a degree in Computer Science in 1994. On June 4, 1994, Chris married the love of his life, Kim (Kirby) Morton, Rochester. They started their life in South Bend and together, they embarked on a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Their love grew and they were blessed with two daughters, Abigayle (Brandon) Parsons, and Mackenzie (Cristian) Acosta, both residing in Mishawaka. His girls both carry mannerisms that reflected the very best of their Dad. Chris’s sister, Katie (Matt) Brubaker, residing in Grand Rapids, Mich.; and his brother, Rob (Christi) Morton, residing in Plainfield. He had several nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles who completed the family circle that meant the world to him. He was in constant touch with all of them via email, family group chats, and text messages. That suited him well given his entire adult life was computers and the internet world. Chris was a family man through and through. He cherished every moment spent with his girls and their husbands, and especially his favorite (and only) wife. He especially loved extra one-on-one time with his Dad doing their “quarterly dinners.” Father-and-son time often took them to baseball games watching the South Bend Cubs and local eateries. His love for travel took him and Kim on many memorable trips, including several trips to Martha’s Vineyard. The love for the island began with his grandparents and parents. Doug and Lois shared it with Chris and his siblings. Chris lovingly shared his “favorite spot in the world” with Kim on their honeymoon. The love for their “favorite spot in the world” was then shared with Abby and Mack. A tradition began that was loved by each and every person that set foot on that island. These moments were the threads that wove the fabric of his life. A man of many interests, Chris was an avid writer who published short stories that captivated the imagination. His love for Star Wars and Harry Potter was not just a pastime but a reflection of his belief in the power of storytelling. Chris found solace in the beauty of nature, often walking through parks and enjoying the serene landscapes of Potato Creek State Park. His daughter Abby fondly referred to him as “The smartest person I knew,” a testament to his intelligence and wisdom. Mackenzie and her husband, Cristian, enjoyed dinners that were a set date every week with her Mom and Dad. That was a dedication to his family ethics. Chris’s professional life was marked by the respect and quirkiness of his colleagues. Given that he and his colleagues were computer-driven, they had their own “codes” no one else knew or understood but that was loved by Chris. He was known for his intelligence and was “communication groomed” by his co-workers at Press Ganey. His meticulous nature led him to keep notes on his phone about everyone and everything, ensuring he never forgot the important adventures that he and his family either did or wanted to do. He reluctantly went to thrift stores with Kim; however, he loved his walks along the Riverwalk in both South Bend and Mishawaka. Again, the simple things in life were where his heart was. He will be desperately missed by his wife. He is described as “the most patient person who was willing to help anyone. He was the most levelheaded person in my life. His knowledge and O.C.D. personality made me a better person. I will miss that along with grammar and spelling knowledge. As with everything I did, he “proofread” it and corrected it”. He was her rock and stability. He will be eternally loved and missed. A memorial service was held at 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at Palmer Funeral Home, River Park Chapel, 2528 Mishawka Ave, South Bend, IN 46615 to honor a man whose intelligence was only surpassed by his capacity for love. Chris’s departure leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his legacy of love, laughter, and the pursuit of knowledge will continue to inspire all who knew him. His was a well-lived life, and though he has left us too soon, the memories he created will be cherished forever. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Glaucoma Society or the Friends of Aquinnah - Gay Head Lighthouse Fund. The cliffs were a part of Martha’s Vineyard and the preservation of the lighthouse housed there, his favorite part of Martha’s Vineyard, hands down. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at palmerfuneralhomes.com. Donations may be made to: American Glaucoma Society, 5034A Thoroughbred Lane, Brentwood, TN 37027.

Kenneth A. Baker

Kenneth A. Baker, 89, Rochester, died Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025, at his home. Arrangements are pending at Good Family Funeral Home, Rochester.

Shelia Conley

Shelia Conley 65, Rochester, died at 4:38 a.m. Monday, Dec. 15, 2025. Arrangements are pending at Good Family Funeral Home, Rochester.

COunty repOrt Court News Circuit Court

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

Complaints

Midland Credit Management, Inc. v. Mackenzie Howard, Rochester, $1,339.20

Mortgage Foreclosure

First Federal Savings Bank v. Vincent Miller, Rochester, and Christine Miller, Rochester, $85,271.51

Superior Court

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

Complaints

Citibank N.A. v. Mary Maisel, Rochester, $2,696.82 GFS II LLC doing business as Gateway Financial Solutions v. Jacob Nemeth, Rochester, $13,676.34 Interra Credit Union v. Dakota Prater, Akron, $32,015 Jefferson Capital Systems LLC v. Jeffrey Mills, Kewanna, $3,042.03 Mariner Finance LLC v. Kenneth Dovich, Rochester, $5,185.87 OneMain Financial Group LLC v. John Eakright Jr., Rochester, $5,344.21

Traffic Violations

The following fines and levies were paid in Fulton County courts: Holding or using a telecommunications device while operating a motor vehicle — Cash Roth, Winamac, $164.50 Operating a motor vehicle without financial responsibility — Alisha Sells, Rochester, $175 Speeding — Hannah Demont, Culver, $154.50; Ashantia Jackson, South Bend, $164.50; Cierra Person, Kokomo, $164.50; Kyla Rairigh, Peru, $154.50; Byron Jimenez Garcia, Plymouth, $175; Jobe Ahmari Mahlik, Grand Rapids, Mich., $175; Daveigha Tucker, Camby, $154.50; Joseph Pray, La Porte, $154.50; Caleb Gallivan, Lafayette, $154.50; Brendan Stephenson, Wakarusa, $175; Kristy Nissley, Goshen, $164.50; Stephanie Hayen, South Bend, $164.50; Gabriel Arreola, Indianapolis, $154.50; Byoung Kim, Kokomo, $154.50; Stephen Sibomana, Grand Rapids, Mich., $164.50; Daisy Allen, South Bend, $164.50; Harold Newberry, Rosedale, Va., $164.50; Lee Galvan, South Bend, $154.50; Payton Shriver, West Chester, Ohio, $175; Danica Craig, Monon, $175; Natalia Bozo, Goshen, $164.50; Elizabeth Sherfy, Muncie, $164.50; Sarah Shipe, Greenwood, $154.50; Galvin Shambaugh, Akron, $164

Marriage Licenses

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

Continued on page 5

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Shopping Guide News of Fulton County, Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Obituaries Donald D. Creviston

Robert D. ‘Bob’ Fred Jr.

Experienced Electrician

Beloved Son, Brother, Uncle, Nephew, Cousin, And Friend

Donald D. Creviston 54, Rochester, passed away unexpectedly at 5:14 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025, at his residence. He was born on March 2, 1971, in Rochester, the son of Darrell and Kay Lynn (Newman) Creviston. On Sept. 11, 2004, in Rochester, he married Crystal Stone; and she survives. Donald worked for DONALD D. Bob’s Electric in Culver, as an electrician. He enjoyed CREVISTON fishing, riding his motorcycle, drawing, woodcrafts, and making items. Survivors include his wife, Crystal Creviston, Rochester; daughters, Ashley (Greg) Garland, Gordonsville, Tenn., Kennedy (Alan) Creviston, LaPorte, and Kadence Creviston, Rochester; grandchild, Carmen Watson, Gordonsville, Tenn.; sister, Julie (Creviston) Shanan Shafer, Rochester; brothers-in-law, Morgan Stone, Leiters Ford, and Daryll (Joy Cook) Stone, Niles, Mich.; feline companion, Tom; and canine pal, Brutus. Preceding him in death were his parents; sister, Kendra (Creviston) Fuentes; and parents-in-law, Pam Cox and Leonard Stone. Memorial services will be conducted at noon Saturday, Dec. 20, at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester. Friends may visit from 10:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 20, in the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Riley’s Children’s Hospital. Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh.com.

Robert D. “Bob” Fred Jr. 66, Fort Wayne, formerly of Fulton, passed away at 2:56 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025, at Majestic Care of Fort Wayne. Bob was born on Jan. 28, 1959, in Logansport, Indiana, the son of Robert Dean and Rita Ann (Camp) Fred Sr. Bob enjoyed doing word search booklets, Sudoku puzzles, and chocolate-covered cherries. He is survived by his brother, David (Lisa) Sutton, Fulton; niece, Elizabeth (Freddie) Jiminez, Ohio; great-niece, Ellie Castro-Sutton, Ohio; two aunts, Barbara Helvie, and Trisha Rozzi, both of Logansport; several cousins; and dear friends, Mark Gundrum, Fulton, Richard Gundrum, Logansport, and Randy Gundrum, Rochester. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert D. Fred Sr., Rita Sutton, and Maurice “Butch” Sutton. Funeral services were at 1 P.M. Friday, Dec. 12, at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester. Interment was in Fulton Cemetery, Fulton. Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh.com.

COunty repOrt Continued from page 4 Rubies-Nostrand Jeremiah Carpenter-Rubies, 27, Rochester, and Kayleen Van Nostrand, 28, Rochester. Batey-Thomas Matthew Batey, 29, Rochester, and Chelsey Thomas, 31, Rochester. Biltz-Galbraith Justin Biltz, 28, Rochester, and Destiny Galbraith, 26, Rochester. Clark-Beck Bruce Clark Jr., 19, Rochester, and Emma Beck, 18, Rochester.

Marriage Dissolutions

The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in Fulton County courts: Hileman — Ryne Hileman, Laketon, and Sandra Hileman, Akron. With minor children. Valdez — Luis Valdez, Macy, and Macy Valdez, Rochester. With minor children.

Elaine Briggs

Jukebox

Indiana University Retiree Elaine Briggs, 81, Rochester, and formerly of Kokomo, passed away at 12:52 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025, at Life Care Center, Rochester. She was born on June 26, 1944, in Kokomo, the daughter of William L. and Juanita (Moody) Barkhaus. She graduated from Kokomo High School in 1963 and attended Ball State UniversiELAINE BRIGGS ty and Murray State University. On Sept. 4, 1992, she married John B. Briggs; who preceded her in death on Oct. 26, 2025. Elaine retired from Indiana University Kokomo where she worked as assistant to the vice chancellor. Elaine and her husband built their home on Lake Manitou in 2003. The lake was Elaine’s “Heaven on Earth”. She loved the years and years of hosting many dinners and get-togethers with family and old friends. She enjoyed reading, cross-stitching, growing flowers in her garden, feeding her hummingbirds, vacations in Florida, holidays and outings with family. She especially loved the “shopping till they drop” sprees with her daughter, Kristi. Many people would consider Elaine a “city girl” but when Kristi was growing up, they lived on a working farm in northern Indiana where they raised animals, baled hay and maintained a large garden. Church life was an important to Elaine, she had been a member of the Faith Presbyterian Church, Kokomo, and Community Presbyterian Church, Rochester, where she served as deacon, Sunday school teacher, sang in the choir, and served on many church committees and projects. Survivors include her daughter, Kristi (Charlie Wappes) Coe, Warsaw; sister, Linda (David) McFatridge, Kokomo; niece, Jessica (Jonathan) Hollingsworth; nephew, Andrew (Nicole) McFatridge; great-nephews and nieces, Hadley, Henry, Harper, and Tate; stepdaughters, Patty (Brian) Zebell, Branson, Mo., and Mary (Jim) Michaelson, Crystal Lake, Ill.; stepson, Andy Briggs, St. Michael, Minn.; step-grandchildren, Ryan (Laurel) Gilbert, Zachary Zebell, Christian Kaiser, Lucas Kaiser, Madison Briggs, Ethan Briggs, Emma Briggs, step-great-grandchildren, Sarah Gilbert, and Alina Gilbert. She was preceded in death by her parents; grandmother, “Nanny”; and her sweet dog, “Rosie”. Funeral service will be conducted at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025 at Community Presbyterian Church, Rochester. Friends may visit one hour prior to services, in the church. Private entombment will take place at Sunset Memory Gardens, Kokomo. Elaine’s daughter and sister would like to thank the wonderful nurses and staff at Life Care Center who loved and cared for Elaine while she was there. Memorial contributions may be made to the Community Presbyterian Church, Rochester, or Allies for Greyhounds, Inc., where her granddog “Happy” came from, P.O. Box 63, Grandville, MI 46468. Arrangements by Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester. Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh.com.

By RUSS DAVIDSON SR. Guest Writer I had just finished playing my softball game. I was tired and ready to get something to eat

and drink. I went to the restaurant, got my order and heard the jukebox playing “Have You Got Cheatin’ on Your Mind.” The waitress came to my table twice as it played “Have You

Got Cheatin’ on Your Mind.” As it played a third time and she returned again, I decided it was time to get the bill and leave. On the way out the jukebox was playing “Wildfire.”

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NOTICE TO BIDDERS ROCHESTER COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION Notice is hereby given that representatives of the Board of School Trustees of Rochester Community School Corporation will meet at the Learning Center, at 1818 S Park Road, 46975 Rochester, Indiana, on Monday, January 19th, 2026, at 11:00 AM (Local Time) and at said time and place will receive sealed bids or telecopied bids, for the Rochester Middle School HVAC Replacement project. Contracts shall be Bid as a single project. Work for the Rochester Middle School HVAC Replacement project shall be Substantially Complete no later than Friday, July 24, 2026. Bids should be placed in an envelope and clearly marked “RCSC MS HVAC Replacement project”. No bids shall be withdrawn after the opening of bids without the consent of the Rochester Community School Corporation within ninety (90) days of the Bid opening. A pre-bid meeting will be held at 3:00 PM on Monday, January 5, 2026 at the Learning Center, at 1818 S Park Road, 46975 Rochester, Indiana. The ONLY formal site inspection will be after the Pre-Bid Meeting on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 3:30 P.M. at the Middle School. Hard Copies of specifications and other pertinent documents will be available on deposit through Eastern Engineering Supply, 1239 Wells Street, Fort Wayne, IN 46808, 260-426-3119, starting at 12:00 P.M., Tuesday, December 23, 2025, or may be requested on-line at www.easternengineering.com. A copy will be available for review at the Administration Office of Rochester Community School Corporation, 690 Zebra Lane, Rochester, IN 46975, 574-223-2159. Contractors shall note that this project is subject to Indiana’s Common Construction Wage Act and all terms of this Act shall be followed in their entirety. Each Bid must be accompanied by a non-collusion affidavit as provided by law. Each Bid shall be accompanied by a certified Cashier’s check or Financial Surety Bond in the amount of five percent (5%) of the amount of the Bid, made payable to the Treasurer of Rochester Community School Corporation to guarantee the School Corporation against default by such Bidder in complying with the terms of this notice and of its Bid. The Board of School Trustees reserves the right to reject any and/or all Bids. BOARD OF SCHOOL TRUSTEES ROCHESTER COMMUNITY SCHOOL CORPORATION Ms. Casi Cowles, President Ms. Katie Miller, Vice-President Ms. Jennifer Smith, Secretary

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Shopping Guide News of Fulton County, Wednesday, December 17, 2025

sheriFF’s oFFiCe reports The following are accidents and incidents investigated by the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office during the past week:

panee. Richmond’s vehicle went off the road and struck a pole. 8:35 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, CR 850W and CR 50S, Kewanna. Driver: Samantha Blacketor, 34, Rochester. Blacketor’s vehicle went off the road and struck a pole. 2:40 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, US 31 and Southway 31, Rochester. Drivers: Faith Meade, 26, Warsaw; and Ryan Miller, 45, Rossville. The two vehicle’s collided. 6:37 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, SR 17 and CR 750W, Kewanna. Driver: Jerry Hoch 42, Logansport. Hit deer.

ple riding dirt bikes through town without headlights was reported. An officer checked the area and sat stationary but was unable to locate any vehicles matching the description. Accidents 5:22 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, SR 25 5:24 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, Heriand CR 700S, Rochester. The back tage Drive, Rochester. Driver: Jessica of a recliner was in the southbound Thiry, 35, Rochester. Thiry’s vehicle lanes. An officer checked the roadway was involved in an accident. from Rochester to the county line and 2:10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, US 31 did not locate the object. and CR 100N, Rochester. Drivers: Isa11:02 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, 500 bella Buwa, 18, South Bend; ad Mark block Wright Street, Fulton. A person Robertson, 73, Valparaiso. Robertson came to the station to report someone received a laceration above the eye. was using his Social Security number Buwa’s and Robertson’s vehicles colat a business out of Chicago. lided. Incidents 9:07 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, 3500 8:52 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, CR 10:23 a.m. Monday, Dec. 15, SR 14 block Blissroad Drive, Macy. Police 600N and CR 175E, Rochester. Driv- and South Meridian Road, Rochester. were notified a tree company was er: Red Oden, 79, Tiosa. Oden’s vehi- A disabled vehicle was reported. 4:48 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, 14000 trimming a neighbor’s trees and cle struck a pole. 4:34 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, SR 14 block CR 100S, Akron. A violation of damaged another property owners and CR 550E, Rochester. Driver: Rob- a protective order was reported to fence and tore the electric service from a shed. Police spoke to the conpolice. ert Nette, 62, Akron. Hit deer. 2:46 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 11000 tractors who said they did not cut the 9:28 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, CR 400N and CR 800E, Rochester. Driver: Lil- block CR 700S, Kewanna. An audible tree that fell on the fence. The crew alarm was reported. Police checked heard a crackling from the electrilian Shepherd, 17, Akron. Hit deer. 7:49 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, SR 14 and found tire tracks covered with cal line and heard the tree fall. The homeowner was advised to contact and CR 925E, Akron. Driver: Travis snow, and everything was secure. 1:29 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, SR 17 his insurance company about the Holland, no age listed, Servia. Holland’s vehicle went off the road and and CR 400N, Rochester. A slide off electric being fixed before Duke Energy can reconnect the power. was reported. hit a sign and then left the scene. 8:16 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, Ban12:45 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 5400 6:34 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, CR 1075E and CR 225S, Akron. Drive: Chassidy block SR 114, Kewanna. A car owner croft Avenue and East 18th street, Rochester. A caller reported finding reported locking keys in the car. Swihart, 30, Rochester. Hit deer. 7:16 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, SR 25 a child walking with no appropriate 11:32 a.m. Friday, Dec. 12, CR 700N and CR 375E, Rochester. Driv- and CR 500E, Rochester. A disabled clothing for the weather and wanter: Gary Burkholder, 70, Rochester; vehicle was pulled off to the side of ed it checked out. Police went to the and Sherri Fore, 54, Argos. Their ve- the road with the hazards on. The en- schools and spoke to the staff who rehicles collided. gine is not engaged and no one is in ported no students coming in, in the 8:43 a.m. Friday, Dec. 12, SR 14, it. An officer was requested to check last 10 minutes fitting that description. Akron. Driver: Eldon Rager, 84, North it out. 12:35 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, US Manchester. Hit deer. 5:33 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, 14000 7:43 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, SR block CR 100S, Akron. A homeowner 31 and East Olson Road, Rochester. 25 and CR 575N, Rochester. Driv- reported someone is trying to break A car slid off the road in the norther: Jazmine Wagoner, 19, Rochester. into their house at the back door. The bound lanes in the median section. A Wagoner’s vehicle hit a dead deer in homeowner is watching the camera wrecker service was called. The vehiwhile at work. Police checked the cle was not damaged, nor the driver the roadway. impaired or injured. 6:55 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, SR area and could not locate any one. 7:07 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, 600 1:48 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, 2000 110 and CR 475E, Argo. Driver: Jenblock Madison Street, Rochester. A nifer Benninghoff, 52, Kewanna. Ben- block Sweetgum Road, Rochester. Inninghoff’s vehicle slid off the road formation was requested regarding homeowner reported there are people outside his home banging on his 6:16 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, CR trespass. 600N and Old US 31, Rochester. Driv7:28 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, Main door. He doesn’t know who they are. er: Mackenzie Richmond 21, Nap- Street and CR 750W, Rochester. Peo- He later called back and reported the men were back walking around his property and were wearing all black. Police located the individuals and issued a trespass warning to the individuals. 10:28 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, 10000 block CR 300S, Akron. A citizen called in and said she provided per reset per trim pictures to an officer about an ongoing issue with the neighbor’s dog. The Traction Shoes, Flat Plates, Rim Shoes & Sliding Plates homeowner was given a warning and it was suggested it may be time to rehome the dog or surrender it. The homeowner said he isn’t ready yet so NEW ADDRESS he was advised to get a tie out to con4168N 200W, Rochester, IN 46975 fine the dog to the yard or to be outside when its outside and bring it in as soon as its done. The homeowner was also told going forward a citation will be issued if it continues. 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her property and could not leave. The man also had multiple items and was walking down the road. The caller disconnected the call while the dispatcher was attempting to get a good address. When contact was made again, the caller reported everything was fine, it was a relative. 2:24 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, 100 block East Rochester Street, Akron. Police were notified of a woman walking up to people and going into businesses asking for money saying she is stranded there. Police located the female sitting on a bench. She was advised to stop asking for money and was offered a ride if she didn’t find one. 9:41 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, 100 block CR 650E, Rochester. Police were notified that children were not at school after going to another parent’s house. The parent was advised to contact the school corporation and let them know what is going on. Police were also notified it was not the other parent’s day to have them. The parent was told it would be documented and was advised of options. 2:52 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, 100 block Maple Street, Kewanna. Police

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were called after a man was seen outside a child’s window and tied to pry open the window. Police spoke with two juveniles and the caller. The window was opened and a pop can fell. Police followed foot prints in the snow until the footprints hit concrete and the trail was lost. 9:52 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8, US 31 and SR 25, Rochester. A driver was reported going the wrong way on this highway. The driver could not be located. 6:34 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8, 2000 block Sweetgum Road, Rochester. Police were notified of a family disturbance involving children, who were not with a relative. The children were under the impression they couldn’t go with him and he wanted to talk to someone about that. There is no information indicating that was the case. Authorities check and advised the caller he was allowed to get his kids and it was unsure why someone told him he couldn’t. 3:38 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8, SR 14 and CR 700E, Akron. Police were notified of a disabled vehicle that has been sitting at that location since last night and is partially in the roadway.

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Fulton County Jail Bookings The following people were booked in the Fulton County Jail during the past week: Dec. 14 – Robert James Warren, 28, 430 W. Ninth St., Rochester, booked on a warrant for probation violation. Bond: $664 cash. Dec. 12 – Dillon Conrad Diegelman, 28, 400 Westwood Lane, Rochester, booked on a warrant from Mar-

shall County. Dec. 9 – Amy Gross, 47, 2003 South Delawanda Ave., Muncie, booked on a warrant for probation violation on a charge of possession of a syringe. Bond: $714 cash. Dec. 9 – Brandon Edward Smith, 28, 4525 Oakhill Lane, Rochester, booked on a warrant out of Montgomery County.

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Online Personal Property Auction Bidding open until 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21. Pickup in Mentone. Bid online at metzgerauction.com. Online Simulcast Heavy Equipment Auction 1 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22. Pickup at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Bid online at metzgerauction.com. Toy And Collectible Online Auction Bidding open until 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22. Pickup 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Bid online at metzgerauction. com.

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Shopping Guide News of Fulton County, Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Area communities among recipients of matching money for road work A total of $100 million in state matching funds for road and bridge work was recently announced for 191 Indiana cities, towns and counties — including more than $1.8 million that will be coming to Fulton County, Akron and Argos. State officials gathered in Delphi on Dec. 9 to announce awards from the Indiana Department of Transportation’s Community

Crossings Matching Grant program and present a ceremonial check to local officials. Area communities receiving matching money include: • Akron, $856,192.40 • Argos, $34,672 • Fulton County, $1 million Communities submitted applications during a call for projects in October. Funding for Community Crossings comes

from the state’s local road and bridge matching grant fund. The program has provided more than $2 billion for local road improvement projects since its inception in 2016. “Community Crossings has benefited nearly every city, town and county in the state of Indiana at least once,” said Matt Ubelhor, secretary of transportation and infrastructure. “Proj-

ects range from chip and crack sealing to paving to bridge rehabilitation and replacement on local roads.” The Indiana General Assembly identified long-term funding for Community Crossings as part of House Enrolled Act 1002, passed in 2017. Following changes outlined during the 2025 legislative session, the program cap is now set at $100 mil-

lion per year, and the annual cap is reduced to $1 million per local unit of government per state fiscal year. An additional change is a reduced local match for smaller communities. Starting in fiscal year 2027, a single call for projects will occur each July. Learn more about the Community Crossings Matching Grant program on the INDOT website.

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Shopping Guide News of Fulton County, Wednesday, December 17, 2025

What would Fulton County be without you? By WENDY MELTON Staff Writer In “It’s a Wonderful Life,” a man travels a path of discovery. He learns what his community would be like if he had never been born. He discovers that even small, random acts of kindness can have a far-reaching impact. It’s not just about the noticeable things a person does. It’s the little things we do without even thinking, like smiling at a stranger or stuffing a few dollars in a donation jar at a local business. The Fulton County Community Foundation recently released a video highlighting some of the projects it has been able to fund with donations from local residents and businesses. According to Brian Johnson, the foundation’s director, “Every area in Fulton County has benefited from projects that improve the quality of life. The foundation has also been involved in recent community development activities, including a housing study that has encouraged new development, and we continue to be involved in providing resources to address childcare shortages.” Johnson continued by adding, “We look forward to seeing continued community projects like the Light up the Park coming to Rochester City Park, continued success of the Times Theater, supporting public services like area libraries, and recreational activities like the city pool.” The “What Would Fulton County Be Without You?” video was intended to get encourage people to reflect on their impact on the community. Johnson said, “Part of what we wanted to do with the video was have people take a step back because we just get used to the things around us. We think, ‘We’ve always had this’ or ‘We’ve always had that.’ Sometimes, I think we aren’t good about intentionally stopping and really appreciating what we do have, because it’s just became everyday practice. One that stood out to me was when COVID hit, and all of a sudden you didn’t see Transpo vans around the community. We get used to seeing that every day,” he said. “It’s not a new thing we’ve done, but it makes an impact on people’s lives every day in big and small ways. I think it’s that intentionally stepping back, being grateful for what we do have, and realizing we may not have everything that other communities have, but we have a lot for the community that we are. Donors have made that impact through creating funds and making gifts,” said Johnson. Since 1993, the Fulton County Community Foundation has worked within the community to support a wide variety of resources, projects, and activities that keep Rochester and the surrounding towns going strong. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference. Whether it’s a financial gift or a gift of time, it all adds up. The Fulton County Community Foundation has also contributed to the Fulton Athletic League to build new batting cages and to Pike Memorial Park in Akron to celebrate the opening of the Turning Pages and Taking Steps StoryWalk. The foundation also supports the Women’s Giving Circle of Fulton County.

A MESSAGE AT THE END OF THE VIDEO.

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Shopping Guide News of Fulton County, Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Updates and happenings in and around the area BZA meeting will be at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17, in the Fulton County Office Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester. —o— Akron Public Library Preschool Story Hour will share “All About Animals” at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17. It will be the last story hour class for the year. Children ages 3-6 years will have an hour of fun with Miss Nicole hearing stories, singing songs and making

a craft.

—o— Pop-Up Store at the Fulton County Museum, 37 E. 375N, Rochester, will be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 17-24. Various vendors, handmade crafts. Farm toys available from S & S Toys, Kokomo. For more information, call (574) 223-4436. —o— American Red Cross Blood Drive will be from 1-6 p.m. Wednesday,

Dec. 17, at Akron Church of God, 301 S. West St., Akron. To schedule your blood donation, call (800) RED-CROSS, or visit RedCrossBlood.org. —o— Upcoming hours to visit with Santa Claus are 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17; and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20. —o— The Rochester Fire Department will offer a first aid, CPR and AED training from 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17, at the Rochester Fire Department. Call (574) 223-6113 to sign up. —o— The Rochester Redevelopment Commission will meet at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester. —o— Teen Color Retreat will be from 3-5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, in the teen oasis at the Fulton County Public Library, Rochester. Teens may join to relieve stress and find creativity through coloring. The library is willing to print up to three coloring pages in advance. Must be library-appropriate. Email your files to kforeman@fulco.lib.in.us. —o— Santa Claus will be at Life-

care, 827 W. 13th St., Rochester, from 3-5 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18. Meet Santa, take a photo and bring your wish list. —o— The Kewanna-Union Township Public Library, Kewanna, will host euchre night from 5:30-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18. —o— The Area Planning Commission will meet at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22, in the Fulton County Office Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester. —o— The Board of Public Works meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester. —o— A grief group meets meets from 4-7 p.m. every Thursday at The Support Cafe, 715 Main St., Rochester. The emphasis is on suicide loss but any grief is welcome - relationship endings, loss of a pet, illness or any cause. The message is simple: You are not alone. —o— During December, kids are invited to participate in Akron Carnegie Public Library’s Elf Academy. Test your elf skills daily at different stations through-

out the library. The Pop-In-Kins elves have returned and will be hiding out some place new each day. Each Monday has been declared Merry Monday throughout December. Kids can pick up a craft at the beginning of each week to complete at home.

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ELF ACADEMY — Charlotte Hall, left, and John Hall stayed busy recently at the Akron Public Library, where they tested their elf skills at different stations throughout the building. Children are encouraged to participate through the month of December. Photo provided by Akron Public Library.

Caston School Board to meet Dec. 17 The Caston School Board will meet in regular session for its December monthly board meeting. The

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Fulton County Community Foundation announces 2026 Lilly Scholarship recipient The Fulton County Community Foundation is pleased to announce the recipient of the 2026 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship (LECS) for Fulton County: Carlos Plascencia of Rochester High School. Lilly Endowment Community Scholars are recognized for their community involvement, academic achievement, character, and leadership. “We are extremely excited for Carlos to receive this award. He knows what he wants to accomplish, and we are looking forward to supporting his educational goals,” said Shannon Berger, Scholarship

Coordinator of Northern Indiana Community Foundation. Carlos Plascencia, son of Carlos and Jessica Plascencia, is an involved and well-rounded student whose activities span athletics, leadership, and service. He has been deeply engaged in school extracurriculars, including four years on the soccer team - serving as captain and earning All-TRC Honorable Mention - along with three years of basketball, two years of track and field, participation in the National Honor Society, and active leadership in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. His volunteer

work reflects a strong commitment to the community, most notably through more than 70 hours at the Fulton County Public Library, which he considers his most meaningful service experience. Additional volunteer efforts include church youth group participation, concessions work, recycling support, and assisting elderly community members with yard care. Carlos also demonstrates a strong work ethic through consistent employment, including working at Kroger, serving as a licensed U.S. Soccer Federation referee for three years, and completing an engineering-focused in-

ternship at Modern Materials. Each Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship provides full tuition, required fees, and up to $900 per year for required books and equipment for four years of fulltime undergraduate study leading to a baccalaureate degree at any eligible Indiana public or private nonprofit college or university. Scholars also join the Lilly Scholars Network (LSN), which connects them with resources and opportunities to lead on campus and in their communities. Both the scholarship program and LSN are supported by grants from Lilly Endowment

to Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI). In nominating Fulton County’s Lilly Endowment Community Scholar, the LECS committee considered community service, school activities, work experience, and more. After narrowing the field of applicants, nominees were submitted to Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI), the statewide administrator of the program, for final selection. We would like to recognize the following students as finalists for this year’s LECS: Grant Clark, CaContinued on page 11

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Shopping Guide News of Fulton County, Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Fulton County Continued from page 10 leb McCuen, Jonas McCuen, Campbell Nellans, and Maci Parker. “The committee had a very difficult decision to make, as every student is truly exceptional. Each finalist will receive a $1,000 scholarship to be sent to the school of their choice. While they may not be selected as the Lilly Scholar, our county is incredibly fortunate to have such impressive students representing Fulton County as they head off to college,” Berger said. Since its inception in 1997–98, Lilly Endowment has supported this program with tuition grants totaling more than $505 million, benefiting over 5,400 Indiana students. The program’s primary purposes are: • To raise the level of educational attainment in Indiana.

• To increase awareness of the beneficial roles Indiana community foundations play. • To encourage and support Lilly Scholars’ engagement with Indiana leaders to improve quality of life statewide. About Fulton County Community Foundation: The Fulton County Community Foundation is an affiliate of the Northern Indiana Community Foundation, Inc., a 501 (c) (3) public trust. The foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in our communities by assisting donors in fulfilling their charitable wishes. We do this by building endowment funds for our communities with contributions, both large and small. About Lilly Endowment Inc.: Lilly Endowment Inc. is an India-

napolis-based private philanthropic foundation created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly Sr. and his sons Eli and J.K. Jr. through gifts of stock in Eli Lilly and Company. The Endowment supports community development, education, and religion, with a special commitment to Indianapolis and Indiana. About Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI): Founded in 1948, ICI serves as the collective voice for Indiana’s 29 private, nonprofit colleges and universities. ICI institutions employ over 22,000 Hoosiers and generate a local economic impact of over $5 billion annually. Students at ICI colleges have Indiana’s highest four-year graduation rates and produce 30% of Indiana’s bachelor’s degrees while enrolling 20% of its undergraduates.

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Shopping Guide News of Fulton County, Wednesday, December 17, 2025

RAISING HANDS — Manitou Center participants recently welcomed Brian Johnson, diREADING QUESTIONS — Participants at Manitou Center in Rochester engage with rector of development for the Northern Indiana Community Foundation. He spent time answering questions and learning about participants’ daily activities and talents. The group enjoyed Brian Johnson, director of development for the Northern Indiana Community Foundation, during a recent visit. Photo provided. the visit, engaging in a lively exchange of questions and answers. Photo provided.

Manitou Center participants connect during engaging community visit Manitou Center, a division of MSDC, recently welcomed a special visitor who brought curiosity, inspiration, and lively conversation into the center. Brian Johnson, Fulton County director of development for the Northern Indiana Community Foundation, spent the afternoon meeting with participants, answering questions - and learning more about the daily activities and talents of the individuals served at the center. From the moment Johnson arrived, participants were eager to engage. They asked him a wide range of questions - everything from how he found his career path, to the rewards and challenges of his work in philanthropy. Johnson responded thoughtfully, offering in-

sight into the mission of NICF and the importance of supporting local communities through grants, partnerships, and donor engagement. But the conversation didn’t flow only one way. Johnson asked just as many questions of the participants, encouraging them to talk about their goals, interests, and the projects they are proud of at Manitou Center. His curiosity sparked meaningful dialogue and helped create a comfortable, uplifting atmosphere. Staff at Manitou say the visit was more than just a meet-andgreet - it was an opportunity for participants to experience genuine connection with a local leader who values inclusion and community involvement.

“Interactions like this help build confidence and show our participants that the broader community sees and appreciates their contributions,” one staff member shared. The Northern Indiana Community Foundation serves Fulton, Miami, and Starke counties by supporting local initiatives, nonprofits, and community needs through donor-driven philanthropy. Brian’s visit to Manitou Center underscored NICF’s commitment to being actively engaged with the people and organizations that make up northern Indiana. For more information about NICF, visit nicf.org. Manitou Center is always looking to build more bridges with local neighbors. If you or someone you know would like to stop by for coffee,

MEETING WITH PARTICIPANTS — Brian Johnson, Northern Indiana Community Foundation’s director of development, talks with Manitou Center participants during a recent visit, answering questions and learning about daily activities and talents at the center. Photo provided. conversation, and a chance to share your role in the community, reach out to mwallace@marshall-starke.

org to schedule a visit and help continue creating meaningful connections for the participants.

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Shopping Guide News of Fulton County, Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Kiser scores 20 in win over N. Judson Boys Basketball Roche s t e r boys basketball coach L u k e Smith was looking to see how his team would respond By VAL TSOUTSOURIS after a Sports Editor, RTC loss to Winamac Friday, Dec. 5. In practice last week, he added a 2-3 zone defense in addition to the team’s switching man-to-man defense. He also wanted better rebounding. He got the results he was hoping for against host North Judson at The Nest Friday, Dec. 12. Jonas Kiser scored nine of his career-high 20 points in the fourth quarter, and Carson Paulik added a season-high 15 as the Zebras held off a Blue Jay rally in the fourth quarter to post a 6555 win. Christian Ingram scored a game-high 31 for North Judson, and Javen Christensen torched the nets for 18. Ingram and Christensen combined for nine 3-pointers. Rochester improved to 2-1. North Judson fell to 1-2. Saturday, Dec. 13’s scheduled game against Logansport was postponed due to snow. Girls Basketball Brailyn Hunter and Lyla Bowers scored 13 points each, and Jadyn Field added 10 as the Rochester girls basketball team handled host Wabash 55-19 on Saturday. Rochester scored the first 10 points of the game and went on another 16-0 run in the second quarter to increase the lead to 29-4. Rochester hit five 3-pointers in the second quarter and eight for the game. Hunter and Bowers had three 3s each. The 19 points allowed were a season low, and it marked the seventh time in coach Joel Burrus’ four-year tenure that the Lady Zs held an opponent under 20 points. Bryleigh Boggs, Wabash’s leading scorer at 19 points per game, was held to eight. Rochester improved to 5-5 overall and 1-3 in the Three Rivers Conference. Burrus was left wondering after the Dec. 10 game against Knox at the RHS gym whether his players had read the defensive scouting report that he puts together for games.

But whatever issues they had defensively, they made up for them on offense in a 51-46 win. Hunter hit three 3-pointers and tied her season high with 14 points, and Field contributed a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. Aubrey Wilson, the point guard and the third member of the Rochester junior nucleus, scored seven points, all in the second half. Adalyn Gonzalez also had seven points, and Ali Field scored six. The balanced scoring offset Knox’s scorching-hot Riley Taylor, who hit six 3-pointers and scored 23 points. But Rochester held her to one free throw in the fourth quarter. Serenity Nava added 10 points, including seven in the fourth quarter, for Knox (3-8). Girls Swimming The Rochester girls swimming team knocked off host Manchester 93-59 Thursday, Dec. 11 behind wins in three blue-ribbon wins from Lily Chipps. Rochester winners included Riplee Snyder in the 200 freestyle (2:39.34), Aubrey Miller in the 50 freestyle (29.34 seconds), Kylie Haselby in diving (130.00 points) and Chipps in the 100 freestyle (1:14.30) and 100 backstroke (1:36.17). Rochester also won both the 200 freestyle relay and 400 freestyle relay. Layla Tyler and Jenna Seuferer joined Haselby and Snyder on the 200 freestyle relay. Summer Tyler joined Chipps, Snyder and Miller on the 400 freestyle relay. Rochester was coming off a 75-74 win at home over Wabash on Tuesday, Dec. 9. Individual

winners included Haselby in diving (116.45 points) and Audrey Widman in the 100 freestyle (1:12.74). Widman also teamed up with Snyder, Summer Tyler and Miller to win the 400 freestyle relay in 5:08.20. Boys Swimming Tyson Wachtmann won both the 200 and 500 freestyles, and Brevin Nicholson took the 200 individual medley for the Rochester boys swimming team in a 74-49 loss to host Manchester Thursday, Dec. 11. Wachtmann was timed in 2:01.74 in the 200 freestyle and 5:36.37 in the 500 freestyle. Nicholson won the 200 individual medley in 2:43.69. Despite wins from Nicholson in both the 200 and 500 freestyles, the Zebras took a 67-64 loss to Wabash Tuesday, Dec. 9. Nicholson swam the 200 freestyle in 2:20.14 and the 500 freestyle in 6:33.26. Rochester also won the 200 medley relay unopposed. Tanner Hamilton, Tyson Wachtmann and Joshua Seuferer joined Nicholson on the team. Girls Wrestling The Rochester girls wrestling team scored 158 points and finished third out of 27 teams at the Lakeland Invitational Saturday, Dec. 13. Weight-class champions included Makenna McKee (130), Elise Enyart (145) and Laine Peppler (170). McKee won all three of her matches by fall and capped her day with a fall in 4:52 over Wawasee’s Keira Bechtold in the final. Enyart won all three of her matches by fall, none of which

JONAS KISER

LILY CHIPPS

lasted more than 44 seconds. Peppler also won all three of her matches by fall, including a 25-second pin of Penn’s Madison Raper in the final. Other Rochester placers included Lilly Gerald, who was second at 105; Serenity Howard, who was second at 115; and Kyra Doran, who was third at 120. Rochester was coming off a 48-36 loss to Logansport Dec. 10. Howard, Doran, Madelyn MacLain (125), Enyart and Peppler all won by fall. Constance Velez (235) won by forfeit. Boys Wrestling The Rochester boys wrestling team went 2-3 and finished

fourth out of 16 teams at the Chris Traicoff Memorial Duals at Calumet New Tech High School in Gary Saturday, Dec. 13. Rochester began by beating Calumet 69-12 and Lowell 42-37 in pool play. Rochester then lost to Hanover Central 52-23, to Fishers 39-32 and to Portage 51-25 in the place rounds. Rochester wrestlers going undefeated for the tournament included Layne Horn (132), who went 5-0 with five falls, and Declan Gard (HWT), who went 4-0 with three falls, an overtime decision and a forfeit.

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Shopping Guide News of Fulton County, Wednesday, December 17, 2025

You Can Find It In The Classified Section Of This Issue Classified Ads Cannot Be Changed After First Publication. (Excludes Any Error By The Shopping Guide News) Private Classified Ads Must Be Pre-Paid Before Running. No Exceptions

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Shopping Guide News of Fulton County, Wednesday, December 17, 2025

DONATORS — Shown are donators, Amanda Vendergriff, Josh Vandergriff and Jesse Manns.

WAITING FOR KIDS — Santa and Mrs. Claus pose for a photo before the kids arrived. Photos provided by Kera Martin.

ABATE Region 1 Welcomes Mr. & Mrs. Claus By WENDY MELTON Staff Writer In the middle of winter in Fulton County, the last thing you might think of is motorcycles. The bikes may be silenced while the snow flies, but their riders are busy working with Santa to make sure local children have a good Christmas. This is the second year Kera Martin has worked with other ABATE Region 1 members and local businesses to host the Fulton County Treasures for Kids event. The gathering was held Saturday, Dec. 13, at the Fulton County Fairgrounds and lasted from noon until 4 p.m. Martin said, “We had our first chili cook off this year and a silent auction. The kids were

able to do crafts, coloring, Santa gave a bag of treats, and the kids could pick one toy. We had 19 kids. Our Santa was Steve Fishburn (he just had knee surgery.) I told the kids he slipped getting out of the sled so they needed to be careful. They did not get to sit on his lap while it healed, so he could get better for Christmas Eve. All the kids, including the older ones, were very good at taking great care of Santa.” Fire Entertainment, Putt’s Bar & Grill & Patio, Tip a Canoe Brews, and Wings Ext., donated the toys and pitched in to make the day a success. Fire Entertainment has already made a commitment to return again next year. Every year, members of ABATE reach out to

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local businesses and members of the community to support its events. Every donation goes to a local family in need. “All donations go to The Cross Wesleyan Church located at 100 W. Third St., Rochester. A check for an undetermined amount will also be included. Donations are still coming in so we don’t have a final total yet,” said Martin. She will be delivering everything, including the food and toys, to the church this week so

the toys can be given to families before Christmas. Fulton County Treasures for Kids is a yearly event that brings the community together. Despite the below normal temperatures and steady snowfall, this year’s visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus was a huge success. Santa’s knee injury and the inclement weather meant the Harley sleigh rides had to be canceled, but there was plenty of fun to be had indoors.

Martin had help from other ABATE members, including the Runkles, Zowalskis, and JD and Meghan Gourley. ABATE is a non-profit organization dedicated to both the education and protection of the rights of motorcycle riders across the country. The group is active in trying to raise awareness of safety concerns and bring about new legislation that keeps the roads safe for all who use them.

RTC Fiber Communications receives NICF Lifetime Philanthropy award RTC Fiber Communications is proud to announce that it has been awarded the Lifetime Philanthropy Award by the Northern Indiana Community Foundation. This prestigious honor recognizes RTC’s long-standing commitment to supporting community initiatives and strengthening the quality of life throughout Fulton County. “We at RTC Fiber Communications are truly honored to receive this recognition from NICF,” said Joe McCarter, president of RTC Fiber Communications. “Fulton County is home to so many outstanding individu-

als and organizations who support the foundation, and being acknowledged among them is a privilege we greatly appreciate.” “We recognize RTC not only for its financial contributions, but for the time, effort and resources it invests in Fulton County,” said Brian Johnson, FCCF director of development. “RTC is an example of a corporation that truly invests in the community. You would be hardpressed to find an area in the county that has not been impacted by its service in one way or another.” The Lifetime Philanthropy Award celebrates organizations

that demonstrate exceptional and sustained dedication to charitable efforts in partnership with NICF. RTC’s ongoing support of local programs and its belief in community-driven progress have made a meaningful, lasting impact on the region. RTC Fiber Communications extends its gratitude to NICF and the Fulton County community for this recognition and looks forward to continuing its mission to support, empower and invest in local initiatives for years to come. For more information, visit rtc1.com or call (574) 223-2191.

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Shopping Guide News of Fulton County, Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Fulton County Community Foundation celebrates a Powerful Giving Tuesday The Fulton County Community Foundation once again brought together community members, donors, and friends on Giving Tuesday to celebrate generosity and the impact it creates across the county. Held on Dec. 2, the annual event featured warm conversation, shared purpose, and a strong sense of local pride. This year, the community contributed more than $117,000 in gifts. When paired with Lilly Endowment Inc.’s enhanced match opportunity and $25,000 in matching funds from RapidView LLC, the day’s impact grew to more than $303,000. These funds will support grants and scholarships that benefit Fulton County for generations. “We were excited to celebrate with all of the donors that made grants and scholarships possible this year,” said Brian Johnson, Fulton County director of development. “Through their generosity, donors made over $1.2 million in grants and scholarships possible this year. We are thankful for people who make Fulton County a great community.” A highlight of the event was the presentation of the 2025 Lifetime Philanthropy Award to RTC Fiber Communications, a long-standing partner in strengthening Fulton County. “We at RTC Fiber Communica-

tions are truly honored to receive this recognition from NICF,” said Joe McCarter, president of RTC Fiber Communications. “Fulton County is home to so many outstanding individuals and organizations who support the foundation, and being acknowledged among them is a privilege we greatly appreciate.” RTC has been a champion of local progress for decades and was among the Community Foundation’s earliest corporate supporters, shaped in part by the leadership and commitment of past president Alan Terrell. Beyond charitable giving, RTC consistently invests in the well-being of residents through initiatives such as local broadcasting on Channel 4, sharing community information on Channel 5, and providing free Wi-Fi in public spaces. Their example reflects the best of what it means to be a corporate citizen devoted to community growth. Giving Tuesday, celebrated the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, unites people around the world in a movement of generosity. Fulton County continues to embody that spirit by supporting local causes, believing in its future, and returning the kindness shown by generations before. To learn more about how the Fulton County Community Foundation is making a difference and how you can be part of it, visit nicf.org.

LIFETIME PHILANTHROPY AWARD — RTC Fiber Communications was recently awarded the 2025 Lifetime Philanthropy Award by the Fulton County Community Foundation. RTC is a long- standing partner in strengthening Fulton County. From left are Joe McCarter, Tyson Kalischuk, Roy Vandermark, Lesley Bowers, Ted Waggoner, Alan Terrell, FCCF’s Brian Johnson, and Dee Brown. Photo provided by Fulton County Community Foundation.

Fall prevention in your home Editor’s Note: Tammy Gettinger works for Woodlawn Health as the director of quality and risk management. By TAMMY GETTINGER B.S.N., R.N. Woodlawn Health The statistics say that be-

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tween 700,000 and 1 million falls occur annually in U.S. hospitals alone, and nearly 40% of elderly patients experience a fall within six months post-discharge. Falls lead to broken bones, cuts, internal bleeding, and other serious outcomes, costing an estimated $32 billion in 2020. Many falls post-dis-

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charge in the elderly population happen at home or in an extended care facility. What can you do at home to prevent falls? TAMMY The NationGETTINGER al Institute B.S.N, R.N. on Aging has several changes you can make to reduce fall risk: • Ensure good lighting in rooms, stairways and hallways. • Keep areas free of clutter. • Don’t leave books, clothesor shoes near walkways or stairs. • Don’t use throw rugs or small area rugs unless they have a non-slip backing. • Watch for wet floors, sidewalks and driveways, and clean up spills immediately. • Keep frequently used items close at hand, as well as phones, chargers, remotes, a flashlight and a list of emergency numbers. • Watch out for cats, dogs and other house pets so they do not trip you. • Use handrails on stairs and in the bathroom. • Consider using a grabbing tool to pick up or reach items. • Use motion lights in darker areas outside. • Remember in winter, to use ice melt products or sand to make walks less slippery. We can all benefit from a good fall prevention plan and staying vigilant about safety. Resource: Patient Safety Movement Foundation. Falls and Fall Prevention in Adults. psmf.org/aebp-publications/falls-and-fall-prevention-in-adults/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIlvKnvsaZgwMVTQStBh0gyAHeEAAYAiAAEgKzDPD_BwE.