The Cross church’s Pastor Martin Furrow said a new renovated space for the church’s food pantry will help foster “connection” with its clients as well as feeding them.
The church, located at 100 W. Third St., Rochester, recently received $50,000 from the Fulton County Community Foundation for reconstructing two buildings into a larger place for its Matthew’s Market food pantry.
The two buildings, donated from a trucking company in another county, were placed beside the church in March. Volunteers led by Don Jervis have worked along with contractors on the buildings.
The new combined space for the pantry will be 2,935 square feet, providing an intake area and space for clients to get out of the cold or heat, a place for clients to pick out food, a bathroom and a private room where people can talk with a volunteer or church staff if needed.
The entrance and exit include a wheelchair ramp.
Furrow said space is cramped in the current building the church has, located by the church building in a former garage.
“It doesn’t have enough space to keep everything, and we have our pallets of food in another garage building,” he said. “That’s caused a lot of issues with trying to get stuff, especially with our volunteers and getting out and trying to get the things moved in and put on the shelves.”
Matthew’s Market was started about 16 years ago by The Cross’ former Pastor Dave Terhune and members Pat and Robin Burkett, said Furrow.
“They just had a heart to feed the community,” he said.
Volunteers handed out food in bags before Matthew’s Market moved into its current building.
The pantry is open 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mondays and 4-6 p.m. Thursdays.
People may come every two weeks, with the church also helping more often if clients have an emergency.
Those coming must reside in Fulton County and meet federal guidelines for poverty, said Furrow.
People are given numbers when they arrive, with a volunteer helping them pick out food when it is their turn to shop based on the size of the clients’ families.
Items are available through The Emergency Food Assistance Program.
People may also donate food to the market by dropping it off at the church or contacting the church at (574) 223-3107.
Items needed currently are cereal, sugar, flour, oil, milk, soup and Hamburger Helper.
The pantry also stocks toiletries, so people can give shampoo, deodorant and more.
Monetary donations are also welcomed, for the pantry as well as the new building project.
People may either drop those off at the church or call the above
number to learn how to donate.
Volunteers are also welcomed to work on the new building or help out in the pantry, with them needing to call the above number.
Plans are to finish the new building ahead of a September open house for the pantry.
Furrow said the current Matthew’s Market space will eventually be “repurposed” by the church.
He noted along with the community foundation, those who’ve helped with Matthew’s Market over the years include Faith Outreach Center and Grace Church, both of Rochester.
Furrow said Matthew’s Market’s original mission was to feed people and the church keeps “trying to continue to not only do that mission, but to do it better.”
“We do care a lot about them,” he said of the community.
Furrow added he wants the new pantry building to be a place for “more than just food.”
“It’s a place that (clients) can come talk with people, celebrate with people,” he said. “Food is good, but the connection with the people and meeting the other needs that they have ... I just love that.”
STOCKING FOOD Volunteer Cynthia Valencia stocks food inside Matthew’s Market food pantry’s current building at The Cross church of Rochester.
VOLUNTEERS Pastor Rick Stone, left, and Terry Riggle are some of the volunteers at Matthew’s Market’s food pantry at The Cross church of Rochester.
McCall, McCarter serve as interns at NICF
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
Two Rochester women are serving as interns for the Northern Indiana Community Foundation this summer.
Sophie McCall and Ella McCarter started in mid-May at the NICF, with their internship continuing through mid-August.
Both are Rochester High School graduates who will be sophomores at their respective
colleges in the fall.
McCall is a nursing student at Ball State University, with McCarter studying marketing and sales at Indiana University.
McCarter said she took on the internship as it “would be a good experience.”
“It’s perfect for what I’m majoring in,” she said, adding interning at NICF has helped her build “connections within the community.”
“I feel like NICF does a lot for our community, so just kind
July events at Akron Carnegie Public Library
The following events will be held at Akron Carnegie Public Library in July. For more information, call (574) 893-4113 or visit akron.lib.in.us. The library is at 205 E. Rochester St., Akron.
Second Season Fitness
Join us for chair exercises at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 16, to promote fitness awareness. This program offers adults a safe, convenient and effective way to build stamina, improve flexibility and balance, and enjoy staying active.
The Chain Gang
The Chain Gang will meet at 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 21. Those who enjoy crocheting, knitting, sewing or needlepoint are invited to bring their materials and work alongside others who
share the hobby. The group is open to all skill levels, from beginners to experienced crafters.
Dino Obstacle Course
Children enrolled in the Summer Reading Program are invited to compete in a Dino Obstacle Course on Tuesday, July 21, at Pike Memorial Park. Multiple session times are available, but group sizes are limited and registration is required. Participants will test their dinosaur skills while tackling the course and enjoying a fun-filled day.
Faux Bug Taxidermy
As part of the Summer Reading Program, teens are invited to create faux bug taxidermy at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 23. Registration is required, and participants must be enrolled in the Summer Reading Program.
of helping them and getting to pay back what they’ve given to us has been nice,” added McCarter.
Though McCall’s nursing major doesn’t exactly align with her internship at NICF, she said being at the NICF has helped her build relationships.
“I have been able to meet different community members,” she said. “A couple of weeks ago, we did a donor story, and so kind of interviewing for that can get emotional. Some of the talks can be hard. So communication skills are something that I’ve learned through this job ... that I think will carry on in my career as well.”
The women’s main tasks have included marketing and check presentations. They’ve gathered information, created press releases and posted on social media.
Their internship has taken them to all three counties that NICF covers: Fulton, Miami and Starke.
“We also have the opportunity to sit in on all (of NICF’s) meetings, so board meetings, donor meetings,” said McCarter. “If somebody wants to start a fund and they’re coming in, they’ll (allow) us to sit in and listen.”
The two women stated creating stories on donors has been their favorite part of the internship.
“You get a better idea of anyone can be a donor, and you don’t have to be some big name
or anything,” said McCarter of working on the stories. “It’s normal people giving back, and it kind of just puts things into perspective.”
McCall added the donor stories “make what we are doing a lot more personal.”
McCarter said the internship has helped build her teamwork
skills as she and McCall split up work.
McCall said she’s learned “people skills and the confidence to go out and talk to people that (she doesn’t) know.”
She said interning at the NICF has helped her and McCarter return the favor to “a small town that has given a lot to us.”
In high school, McCall was exposed to nonprofits through her serving as a student representative on United Way of Fulton County’s board. McCarter helped with the Rochester Lions Club and at her church, First Baptist Church of Rochester.
McCall’s parents are Mark and Kelly McCall, and McCarter’s parents are Joe and Mandie McCarter.
In her spare time, McCall enjoys reading and spending time with friends and family.
McCarter enjoys spending time with friends and family and arts and crafts.
NICF INTERNS Ella McCarter, left, and Sophie McCall are serving as interns at the Northern Indiana Community Foundation this summer. Photo by Leah Sander.
Fulton County Library chosen for Smithsonian Rural Program
The Fulton County Public Library has been selected as one of 16 rural public libraries nationwide to participate in the inaugural Smithsonian Associates Rural Library Program.
The yearlong program will provide the library and its patrons with access to virtual Smithsonian Associates programming, along with special local activities
and events designed to enrich and engage the community.
For more than 60 years, Smithsonian Associates, the world’s largest museum-based education program, has inspired lifelong learning through innovative programs that bring the Smithsonian experience to communities across the country.
As part of the 12-month part-
nership, Fulton County Public Library will offer the programming at no cost to participants.
Library officials said they are excited to bring the educational opportunity to Fulton County and are already planning upcoming programs and events.
Additional details about the schedule and activities will be announced in the coming months.
New electronic health records system coming soon to Indiana VA facilities
The VA Northern Indiana Health Care System is continuing to prepare for going live with the new Federal Electronic Health Record system on Saturday, Aug. 22.
The new electronic system contains veterans’ health records, including from their time in the military, and tracks all of their medical care. The Federal EHR is meant to improve the way the VA health care facility operates and lead to better care for veterans, according to a news release from the Fort Wayne VA office.
VA has already implemented the electronic system at six initial sites using the Federal Electronic Health Record by moving veterans’ data to the My HealtheVet patient portal on VA.gov. Veterans can now access their health information in one place, regardless of where they receive care.
Indiana veterans should know that during the transition there will be some limited services.
Scheduling appointments online
(Read John 3:14-36)
By THE REV. RON PURKEY
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).
First, the basis for the new birth (John 3:14-21).
(1) Christ had to die (verses 1417). Jesus Christ again refers to the OT, this time to Numbers 21, the account of the bronze serpent. The serpents were biting the Jews and killing them, and the strange solution to the problem was found when Moses made a serpent of bronze. Looking to the serpent in faith brought healing. In like manner, Christ was made sin for us because it is sin that is killing us. As we look to Christ by faith, we are saved. Bronze symbolizes judgment, and Christ experienced our judgment when he was lifted up on the cross. Christ had to die before people could be born again; his death brings life. What a paradox!
(2) Sinners have to believe (verses 18-21). Faith in Christ is the only means of salvation. God’s command to Moses in Numbers 21 was not that he should kill the snakes,
will pause from July 23 until Oct. 6. Canceling appointments online will pause from Aug. 12 until Sept. 1.
For a first appointment with the VA Northern Indiana Health Care System after Aug. 22, veterans should call to schedule; the VA facility needs to reestablish the relationship between the veteran and their provider before they may begin scheduling online.
Secure messaging will pause from Aug. 16 until Aug. 24.
Online prescription renewals will pause from Aug. 16 until Aug. 24.
Online prescription refills will pause from Aug. 19 until Aug. 24.
Additionally, there may be some reduced appointment availability from August through October.
My VA Health, the patient portal used by the initial six live sites, was decommissioned on May 29, 2026, when those sites converted to the My HealtheVet patient portal on VA.gov. As of June 1, VA experienced zero traffic going to the
My VA Health portal. This unifies all 14 Federal Electronic Health Record sites on the same patient portal, marking a milestone in this multi-year effort, the news release said.
To prepare for the transition, veterans should:
Make appointments early: There may be fewer appointments available August through October, so be sure to make appointments early.
Use secure messaging: If a veteran has a non-urgent question or request for their provider, try secure messaging through My HealtheVet. Use your Login.gov or ID.me account to sign in.
Refill and renew prescriptions early: Avoid potential pharmacy delays by making sure to refill and renew prescriptions ahead of time.
Update contact information: Ensure name, email, phone number and address are up to date in your VA profile. Sign in using your Login.gov or ID.me account to confirm your information.
make a salve for the wounds or try to protect the Jews from being bitten. It was that he lift up the bronze serpent and tell men to look by faith. Not to look meant condemnation; faith meant salvation. John here goes back to John 1:4-13, the symbolism of light and life, darkness and death. Sinners not only live in darkness, but they love the darkness and refuse to come to the light where their sins will be exposed and can be forgiven.
Second, the confusion about the new birth (John 3:22-36).
Verse 25 can be translated:
“There arose a question between some of John’s disciples and a Jew concerning ceremonial purification.” Could this Jew have been Nicodemus, still searching after truth? Like many people today, Nicodemus was confused about baptism and religious ceremonies. Perhaps he thought “born of water” meant baptism or some Jewish pu-
rification rite. Notice how John the Baptist pointed this Jew to Jesus Christ. If baptism were necessary for salvation, then this is the place for the Bible to say so, but nothing is said. Instead, the emphasis is on believing (verse 36).
It is evident that Nicodemus came “out of the dark” and finally became a born-again Christian. Here in John 3, we see Nicodemus in the darkness of confusion; in John 7:45-53, we see him in the dawn of conviction, willing to give Christ a fair hearing; and in John 19:38-42, we see Nicodemus in the daylight of confession, openly identifying himself with Jesus Christ.
“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him” (John 3:36).
Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines free at rcpbibleoutlines. com. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.
Sharon Charlene
Schroer Woodlawn Hospital Radiology Technician
Sharon Charlene Schroer, 91, Rochester, passed peacefully on the morning of Monday, July 6, just days after celebrating Independence Day and singing along to all her favorite patriotic songs.
Charlene was born to Mary Tilden Dick and Carl Dick on March 16, 1935, in Akron. Her fondest childhood memories always included her big sister Patricia; her most cherished grandparents, the Tildens; her dear mother, Mary; her loving stepfather, Roger Wright; and her young stepbrother, Fred.
SHARON CHARLENE SCHROER
In her youth, she was a cheerleader and a twirler, delighted to serve in the limelight. She also enjoyed popping popcorn at her stepfather’s theater in town, catching movies and newsreels through the late 1940s and early ‘50s. Always proud of her Akron roots, Charlene maintained close relationships with her Flyer classmates throughout her life.
Charlene married William “Bill” Schroer on the day after Christmas in 1955, and in the next few years welcomed their daughters, Debbie and Cindy. The Schroers built a life around serving the Rochester community. Charlene spent 42 years as a radiology technician at Woodlawn Hospital and was a steadfast member of St. John Lutheran Church, which the Schroer family helped establish. She was an active member of Tri Kappa and volunteered at the local polls on election day.
We iconically remember her cheering at Bill’s side during Zebra games, singing loudly from the front pew at St. John’s, and, in her retirement years, tooling around town in her Buick as her dog sat tall in the passenger seat. We hear her humming, feel her “hold tights,” and taste her famous mashed potatoes. We see her warm smile, dimpled with that trademark hint of mischief.
To know Charlene was to feel loved by her, even through her latter days. She radiated joy and brought sunshine into every room. She saw beauty in all places and reveled in sharing it: a fluffy cloud bursting from a vast blue sky or the way the leaves flutter when rain is imminent. And she was always leaning on her charm and legendary whimsy just to watch the world crack a smile.
She remains deeply loved here on earth by her daughters, Debbie Habig (Rick) and Cindy Cerami (Cordy); grandchildren, Kelsey Habig, William “Gus” Habig (Lauren), Joe Cerami, and Matt Cerami; two great-granddaughters, Alice and Frances; her precious dog, Chatti; and the many extended family and friends she collected over her 91 years. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 15, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 404 Jefferson St., Rochester, with Pastor Curtis May officiating. Friends may visit one hour prior to services in the church.
Burial will follow at IOOF Cemetery Rochester, where she will rest next to her beloved husband, Bill.
In honor of Charlene’s resounding love for all her lifetime pets, her family’s pets, her neighbors’ pets and even stranger’s pets, memorial contributions may be made to the Fulton County Animal Adoption & Education Center, 1540 N. Wentzel St., Rochester, or by visiting fultoncoanimalcenter.org.
Online expressions of sympathy may be made to the family at goodfamilyfh.com.
Good Family Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements.
Charles J. ‘C.J.’ Yocum Educator and World Traveler
Charles J. “C.J.” Yocum, 76, Rochester, passed away Friday, July 3, 2026.
A celebration of life for C.J. will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, July 25, at Rans Funeral Home, Kewanna. All are welcome to visit with C.J.’s family beginning at 10 a.m. at the funeral home.
C.J. was born on Oct. 15, 1949, in Mercer County, Ky. to Charles and Bessie (Lunsford) Yocum. As a child, he lived on a farm and helped his neighbors milk cows to earn extra money. In high school, he played football and ran track. He graduated from Mercer County High School in 1967 and always enjoyed attending his class reunions.
CHARLES J. ‘C.J’ YOCUM
While stationed at Grissom Air Force Base after serving in Vietnam, C.J. met his future wife, Janet Evers on a blind date. They were married Aug. 26, 1973, while they were students at Ball State University.
During the couple’s 52 years together, they raised two loving and successful children, Andrea (Peter Konshak) and Jason (Melissa) Yocum. He was also “Granddaddy” to two wonderful grandchildren, Madeline and Harrison Yocum, whom he loved greatly. C.J. was a great role model and father who taught his children to be hard workers, to help others less fortunate, and to be adventurous, curious and brave.
C.J. was a proud military veteran of the U.S. Air Force, retiring after 25 years of service in both active duty as well as the reserves, including service ranging from Vietnam to Operation Enduring Freedom. Military service abroad ignited C.J.’s lifelong interest in world travel. He visited 51 countries during his life, with extended month-long trips to West Africa, Europe, Southeast Asia and Latin America being highlights of his retirement.
C.J. was a teacher and coach for life, spending nearly 30 years in special education classrooms in MSD of Wabash County. During his career, he also served as junior high football coach for 17 years, golf coach and ski club sponsor. He retired from teaching in 2005.
Sports of all kinds were C.J.’s life-long passion. His favorites included golf, football, basketball, snow skiing, scuba diving, tennis and swimming. C.J. and his son, Jason, loved playing sports together, talking about the Colts and Indiana University athletics, and attending his grandson Harrison’s basketball games. C.J. taught many people how to play golf and swim. He shot several holes in one and he also learned how to fly a powered parachute. Another passion was camping at Lukens Lake Campground, where he spent summer days for nearly 40 years.
C.J. enjoyed spending time at events with both the Yocum and the Evers extended families. He never met a stranger and could talk to anyone, telling the best stories. He loved his wife Janet’s cooking and he also loved country music - especially George Strait - playing cards and visiting Las Vegas.
C.J. was preceded in death by his parents; and four siblings in Kentucky; his beloved in-laws, Leonard and Nancy Evers; and brother-in-law, Rick Evers.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Outlet Youth Center, Rochester or to Special Olympics through Manitou Training Center, Rochester.
“I was a young troubadour when I rode in on a song/And I’ll be an old troubadour when I’m gone.” - George Strait “Troubadour.”
Lucille E. ‘Lou’ Teel
Lucille E. “Lou” Teel, 78, Beaver Dam Lake, died Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne.
She was born Sept. 5, 1947, in Cleveland, Ohio. On April 5, 1964, she married David Teel; who survives.
Additional survivors are her daughters, Tammy (Larry) Fairchild and Maria (Van) Mozzone; three grandchildren; four great-grandchildren, with one more on the way; sisters, Linda Holloway and Lori (Larry) Barton; brother, Larry (Becky) Carlson; her cat, Mitsy; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and sister, Lil Grimes.
Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 11, at King Memorial Home, 101 N. Tucker St., Mentone, with Pastor Dana Miller officiating.
Interment followed the service at Sycamore Cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be made to the donor’s charity of choice.
Online condolences may be expressed at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.
Donald L. Boyer
Donald L. Boyer, 94, Boyer Lake, died at 4:15 p.m. Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Mason Health and Rehabilitation Center, Warsaw.
He was born on May 10, 1932. On May 3, 1968, he married Carol E. Rathbun; who survives.
Dakota Jay Boldizar
Taylor Sappingfield and Jaden Boldizar are the parents of a son, Dakota Jay, born at 6:44 p.m. Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Woodlawn Health. He weighed 8 pounds and was 21.5 inches long. Maternal grandparent is Jessica Sappingfield. Paternal grandparents are Aneka and TJ Senff. Maternal great-grandparent is Ralph Bedsaul. Paternal great-grandparent are April Sheller and Brenda Senff. Colvin Lane Eckrote Jackie and Lane Eckrote are the par-
ents of a son, Colvin Lane, born at 7:37 a.m. Wednesday, July 1, at Woodlawn Health. He weighed 6 pounds, 12.5 ounces and was 19.75 inches long. Maternal grandparents are Lynn and Lisa Apenhorst, Spring Valley, Minn. Paternal grandparents are Jerry and Amy Eckrote, Macy. Maternal great-grandparents are Charles and Elsa Paulsen, Stewartville, Minn., and Richard and Evelyn Apenhorst, Spring Valley, Minn. Paternal great-grandparents are Jerry and Phyllis Callovay, Macy and Darlene Eckrote, Akron.
Danny Grogg 81, Rochester, passed away at 8 a.m. Friday, July 10, 2026, at his residence.
He was born on May 3, 1945, in Auburn, the son of Albert Gene and Mary Elizabeth (Kessler) Grogg. On Jan. 21, 1999, in Gatlinburg, Tenn., he married Janie L. (Kitterman) Courtney. She preceded in death on June 18, 2021.
Danny owned and operated Grogg Sales and was an Esco parts distributor. He was a member of the Elk’s Lodge, the NRA and Eagles Lodge. He enjoyed golf, shooting and caring for his yard.
Survivors include his daughter, Brandi (David) Bussard, Rochester; stepchildren, Tony (Tracy) Courtney, Wabash, Marcus Courtney, Plymouth and Melissa Courtney, Frankfort, Ky.; grandchildren, Bailey, Brady, John, Matthew, Hadley and McKenna.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Gene Grogg; and his sister, Shirley Stice.
No services are scheduled at this time.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Arrangements are with Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester. Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh.com.
Edward Allen Jr.
Edward Allen Jr., 92, Avon, died Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at his home.
Arrangements are pending at Good family Funeral Home, Rochester.
Additional survivors are his daughters, Judy Cardwell, Mentone, Cathy (Morris) Folk, Warsaw, and Barb and (Bill) Hardesty, Warsaw; sons, Dan (Kassie) Boyer, Tippecanoe and Kevin Boyer, Mentone; son-in-law, Doug Westendorf; stepchildren, Phil (Royale) Smith, David (Amy) Smith, and Michael (Penny) Smith; 22 grandchildren; 45 great-grandchildren; and sister, Darlene (Burdell) Blackburn, Seymour, Tenn.
He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Beverly Westendorf; daughter-in-law, Kim Boyer; brother, Kenny Boyer and wife Rose; and sister, Phyllis Bennett and husband, Gwendol.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 20, at King Memorial Home, 101 N. Tucker St., Mentone, with Rev. Michael Smith officiating.
Interment will take place following the service in the Mentone Cemetery, Mentone.
Visitation hours will be held from 2-5 p.m. Sunday, July 19, at King Memorial Home, Mentone. Memorial contributions can be made to the IWMF (International Waldenstrom’s Macroglobulinemia Foundation) 1449 S. Michigan Avenue, STE 13329, Chicago, IL 60605.
LUCILLE E. ‘LOU’ TEEL
DONALD L. BOYER
Danny Grogg Grogg Sales Owner And Operator
DANNY GROGG
C ounty R epo R t
Court News
Circuit Court
The following petition has been filed in Fulton Circuit Court, with Judge Arthur Christopher Lee presiding:
Complaints
Jefferson Capital Systems, LLC V. Michael Rhoda, Rochester, $3,604.05
Civil Plenary
Mark Pelo, no address listed, and Kathleen Pelo, no address listed v. Arena Van Lines, INC, breach of contract, breach of implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing, negligence, $20,534.75
Complaint
Traffic Violations
The following fines and levies were paid in Fulton County courts:
Disregarding a stop signStaci Pfeiffer, Rochester, $175
Driving while suspendedJuan Nunez, Warsaw, $189.50
Speeding - Raidan George, Mishawaka, $154.50; Cara Williams, Nineveh, $164.50; Roger Ballard, Mishawaka, $175; Griffin Piel, Peru, $164.50; Samantha Taylor, Grand Rapids, Mich., $154.50; Leo Thurin, South Bend, $175; Nancy Werner, Carmel, $164.50; Johnathan Burgos II, Lorain, Ohio, $154.50; Susan Scruggs, Bourbonnais, Ill., $164.50; Juan Nunez, Warsaw, $164.50; John Drury, Marion, $175; Damanpreet Singh,
Elkhart, $164.50
Speeding, operating a motor vehicle with a false plate, plate belongs to another vehicleKonner Koehler, Dixon, Ill., $180
Speeding, exceeding 30 mph in an urban district - Wayne Bupp, Crawfordsville, $164.50
No valid driver’s license - Baroudi Diaz Kleiver Misael, South Bend, $164.50
Operating a motor vehicle with a false plate, plate belongs to another vehicle - Joshua Zellers, Kewanna, $164.50; Colton Stevens, Muskegon, Mich., $154.50
Operating a motor vehicle without financial responsibility - Orlando Lopez Romero, Oak Lawn, Ill., $200
Operating a motor vehicle without a proper permit or endorsement - Dewayne Steele, Rochester, $200
Operating with expired plates - Stephen Walker, Star City, $164; Coyla Dahms, Jeffersonville, $164; Maria Hartman, Rochester, $164; David Burkett, Tippecanoe, $164; Kristen Handtke, South Bend, $164
Operating with expired plates, driving while suspended - Kristin Good, Rochester, $189.50
Operating with expired plates, driving while suspended, operating a motor vehicle without financial responsibility - Michael Leonard, Rochester, $225
Taking or possessing an undersized black bass - Minnie
Miller, Akron, $149
Unsafe lane movement, no medical certificate on driver’s possession, no driver’s record of duty status - Frank Dominguez, Lehigh, Acres, Fla., $235.50
Marriage Licenses
The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Fulton County clerk of the court:
See-Holmes
Adam See, 33, Rochester, and Cheyenne Holmes, 28, Rochester.
Estep-McGriff
Delmar Estep III, 22, Akron, and Emily McGriff, 21, Akron.
Meadows-Sells
Wesley Meadows, 21, Kewanna, and Emma Sells, 20, Kewanna.
Marriage
Dissolutions
The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in Fulton County courts: Clemans - Justin Clemans, Rochester, and Elycia Clemans, Rochester. With minor children. Vigar - Steven Vigar, Bunker Hill, and Kerri Vigar, Macy. No minor children.
R o C heste R p oli C e R epo R ts
The following are accidents and incidents investigated by the Rochester Police Department during the past week:
Accidents
1:24 a.m. Wednesday, July 9, SR 25 and Jones Avenue, Rochester. Driver: Mas W. Loper, Arrowhead Drive, Rochester. Hit a deer.
2:37 p.m. Tuesday, July 7, Main Street, Rochester. Drivers: Larry A. Breeden, Arrowhead Drive, Rochester; and John R. Weisenberger, Jackson Avenue, Peru. Backing collision.
2:32 p.m. Monday, July 6, Main Street, Rochester. Driver: Thomas E. Roush, CR 325E, Lucerne. Roush reported that while his city-owned vehicle was stopped on Main Street while he picked up a bag along the roadside, a passing vehicle struck and broke the city’s side mirror.
Incidents
5:09 p.m. Thursday, July 9, 2000 block Peace Tree Village, Rochester. A caller reported withdrawing money during a transaction and setting it down at the register, where it was later taken. Another person came to the police station and reported finding the money at the business, stating it was left in the machine. An officer took possession of the $220 and contacted the original caller so the money could be returned.
9:19 a.m. Thursday, July 9, 300 block West Fifth Street, Rochester. Police were notified that a former spouse had been opening accounts in the complainant’s name. Officers learned the activity occurred in Michigan three years ago. The complainant was advised the matter would have to be handled there.
6:29 p.m. Wednesday, July 8, 800 block SR 25, Rochester. Police were notified of a man acting strangely in a parking lot. A description was provided. Officers spoke with the man, who said he had been involved in a verbal argument with his girlfriend and was waiting for a ride.
5:19 p.m. Wednesday, July 8, 700
block East Fourth Street, Rochester. A caller reported she had the title to a trailer and had moved out
with all of her belongings. She and her former partner were attempting to sell the trailer together. When the man returned and realized she had moved out and taken her belongings, he became irate and allegedly threatened her. The caller asked questions regarding the civil property dispute and was advised to seek a protective order through the county where she resides.
3:48 p.m. Wednesday, July 8,
100 block Rochester Plaza, Rochester. A key ring with keys was found in the parking lot.
9:25 p.m. Tuesday, July 7, 2000 block Peace Tree Village, Rochester. Police were alerted that three or four people were headed to a business to steal alcohol. Only one person was of legal age. Descriptions were provided. Police recovered some items from one individual and attempted to locate several others who fled the area.
3:45 p.m. Tuesday, July 7, 700
block East Fourth Street, Rochester. A resident concerned about the safety of two young children walking along Fourth Street contacted police. An officer spoke with a woman at the residence where the children lived and learned they had been taking mail to a neighbor.
7:36 p.m. Monday, July 6, 1300 block Dogwood Drive, Rochester. A program official requested to speak with an officer regarding an issue involving parents messaging her about picking up a child. The director said the child’s mother had enrolled the child and no information for the father was on file. The officer advised it was a civil custody matter.
4:14 a.m. Monday, July 6, 300 block Main Street, Rochester. An older man came to the police station and said he was trying to get to Cleveland, but his phone was not working properly. He asked if an officer could assist him and was helped with his GPS.
s heri FF ’ s o FF i C e r eports
The following are accidents and incidents investigated by the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office during the past week:
Accidents
3:07 a.m. Friday, July 10, CR 600W and CR 500N, Rochester. Driver: Angelia Schmal, no further information provided. Hit a deer.
6:56 p.m. Thursday, July 9, SR 25 and CR 500S, Rochester. Driver: Chaliyah Brown, 24, Lafayette. Hit a deer.
5:06 a.m. Thursday, July 9, CR 400N, Rochester. Driver: Bryston Canada, 27, Denver. Hit a deer.
9:40 a.m. Wednesday, July 8, Centre Street, Delong. Driver: Ronald Wilson, no further information provided. Wilson reported someone backed into his car.
7:06 a.m. Wednesday, July 8, West 13th Street, Rochester. Driver: Gretchen Smith Gardner, 16, Rochester. Hit a mailbox.
9:48 p.m. Tuesday, July 7, US 31 and CR 450N, Rochester. Driver: Jorge Rosas-Jimenez, 24, Akron. Hit a deer.
Incidents
3:45 p.m. Sunday, July 12, 1400 block CR 375N, Rochester. A smoke odor was reported inside a camper.
11:04 a.m. Sunday, July 12, US 31 and Southway 31, Rochester. A female driver had a male driver pull over after she said something flew off his vehicle and hit hers, but she drove away. The man said nothing flew off his vehicle and locked himself in his vehicle while waiting to speak with an officer. An officer advised him that
F ulton C ounty J ail B ookings
The following people were booked in the Fulton County Jail during the past week:
July 12 - Natalia Katherine Osborn, 24, 1237 Tower Drive, Logansport, booked for resisting/interfering with law enforcement and public intoxication. Released on her own recognizance.
July 12 - Blaize Graesyn Luxavarre Smith, 24, 4699 W. 1050N, Macy, booked for resisting/interfering with law enforcement, public intoxication and residential entry. Bond: $500 cash.
July 12 - Jennifer K. Yeo, 54, 2960 Hickory Lane, Rochester, booked for possession of methamphetamine and theft. Bond: $2,500 surety or $500 cash.
July 12 - Jason Conrad Honeycutt, 45, 4986 E. Wood Drive, Rochester, booked on a warrant from Whitley County.
July 12 - Amani Pritchett, 35, 89 Peony Street SW, Grand Rapids, Mich., booked on a warrant for failure to appear on charges of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and possession of paraphernalia. No bond.
July 12 - Garrett Hunter Rose, 28, 412 W. Elm Drive, Knox, booked on a warrant for failure to appear on a charge of operating a vehicle while never licensed. Bond: $100 cash.
July 12 - Marquis Kenyon Tarver, 30, 6830 Ridge Crest Way, Apt. 2B, Indianapolis, booked for resisting law enforcement with a vehicle. No bond.
July 11 - Rufino Ramirez, 36, 1100 Franklin St., Rochester, booked for resisting/interfering with law enforcement. Released on his own recognizance.
July 11 - Corwin S. Booker, 41, 520 E. Market St., Indianapolis, booked on a warrant for failure to appear on a charge of theft. No bond.
July 11 - Spencer Graham Long, 30, 3018 Cernan Court, Lafayette, booked for driving while suspended with prior. No bond.
July 11 - Wilson Enil Martinez Antunez, 23, 2850 Ellago North Drive, Apt. A, Indianapolis, booked on a warrant for failure to appear on a charge of operating a vehicle without a license. Bond: $100 cash.
July 11 - Ernest Genoma Mosconi, 23, 3532 E. Southport Road, Indianapolis, booked on a warrant for failure to appear on a charge of possession of marijuana. Bond: $150 cash.
July 10 - Mandi Lois Baugh, 47, 760 Cherry Tree Lane, Rochester, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated with prior. No bond.
July 10 - Autumn L. Riggins, 47, 7464 N. 550E, Rochester, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated - endangerment. Released on her own recognizance.
July 9 - Anthony Todd Sommers, 19, 2015 Westgate Ave., Plymouth, booked for battery causing bodily injury. No bond.
July 9 - David W. Campbell, 58, 1750 W. Dawn Drive North, North Judson, booked as a habitual traffic violator - lifetime. Bond: $7,500 surety or $1,000 cash.
nothing had been reported at that time and he was free to leave.
5:29 a.m. Sunday, July 12, 900 block West Olson Road, Delong. Authorities were notified that a van had crashed into the post office building, but it is unknown when it occurred. Neighbors reported hearing a loud noise around 3 a.m. No one was found inside the building. A possible gas leak was also reported inside the building. NIPSCO was contacted, and a wrecker service was notified to remove the vehicle.
3:23 a.m. Sunday, July 12, 6100 block CR 450N, Rochester. A caller reported a white male broke into his garage, but the family’s dogs scared the suspect away. The suspect ran north into a field behind the residence. A K-9 officer and a drone were used. The suspect was apprehended by the K-9 officer.
10:48 a.m. Saturday, July 11, 300
block North Troutman Street, Kewanna. A dog was found at the park but left before authorities arrived.
8:19 p.m. Friday, July 10, 300 block West Main Street, Kewanna. A caller requested to speak with an officer regarding neighbors putting up a fence on the caller’s side of the property after it had already been surveyed. The caller was advised of his options because it was a civil issue. Police were later called back to the location after a verbal argument broke out between the neighbors.
2:23 p.m. Friday, July 10, 7100 block CR 700N, Rochester. A license plate was reported stolen from a parked vehicle. The owner reported attempting to replace the plate but was told a police report was required.
7:05 a.m. Friday, July 10, 1000 block Ridge Road, Rochester. A caller reported receiving information about an outstanding bill from a cell phone
company even though the caller had never used that provider.
10:19 a.m. Thursday, July 9, 800 block Cherry Tree Lane, Rochester. A special agent with the U.S. Army requested that an individual contact him regarding a credit card scam. Local officers contacted the individual and relayed the request.
9:07 a.m. Thursday, July 9, 8200 block East CR 100S, Akron. An official at a business reported numerous attempts to make transactions through the company’s bank account.
3:46 a.m. Thursday, July 9, 2400 block CR 450N, Rochester. A resident reported Ring cameras kept activating and requested an officer check the area to make sure no one was around. An officer checked around the residence and surrounding area. The only living creatures found were deer. 10:15 p.m. Wednesday, July 8, 2700
Continued on page 7
July 9 - Jae-Lynn Dixon, 18, 2934 S. 300W, Trailer 236, Peru, booked for interfering in the reporting of a crime. Released on his own recognizance.
July 9 - Steven Torrell Johnson, 41, 404 Village Lane, Elkhart, booked on a warrant for failure to appear on a charge of driving while suspended. Bond: $150 cash.
July 8 - Casandra Regan Brown, 38, 3082 S. 500W, Rochester, booked on a warrant for probation violation on a charge of public intoxication. No bond.
July 8 - Anna Elizabeth Clemons, 25, 6131 Walnut Lane, Rochester, booked on a warrant for failure to appear on a charge of dealing in methamphetamine. No bond.
July 8 - Orrin Patrick Frost, 22, 5945 S. Highway 11, Manchester, Ky., booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Released on his own recognizance.
July 8 - Lova Donna Mainer, 26, 418 Troutman, Lot 16, Kewanna, booked for aggravated battery. No bond.
July 8 - Misti E. Walker, 48, 418 N. Troutman St., Lot 16, Kewanna, booked for battery on a pregnant woman. No bond.
July 8 - Anne Marie Baker, 43, 1407
Main St., Room 8, Rochester, booked on a warrant from Allen County.
July 7 - Anthony Paul Neeson, 21, 20893 River Blvd., Goshen, booked for resisting/interfering with law enforcement, theft and a warrant from Elkhart County. No bond.
July 7 - Jeremy D. Swank, 46, 1109 Park Road, Rochester, booked on a warrant for probation violation on a charge of possession of meth. No bond.
July 7 - Rita Anne Waltz, 61, 420 Klinger St., Plymouth, booked on a warrant for dealing methamphetamine. Bond: $10,000 surety or $3,000 cash.
July 7 - Antjuan Mason, 45, 3729 Harrison St., Gary, booked on a warrant for probation violation on a charge of driving while suspended with prior. Bond: $500 cash.
July 6 - Jack M. Beverly Jr., 69, 257 Sandalwood St., Portage, booked on a warrant for failure to appear on a charge of operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Bond: $500 cash.
July 6 - Chandler Allen Lysell, 27, 102 N. Washington St., Swayzee, booked for resisting/interfering with law enforcement and on a warrant from Grant County. Released on his own recognizance and held for Grant County.
July 5 - Steven Adams, 47, 138 Bethel Church Road, Seminary, Miss., booked for intimidation with a deadly weapon, operating a vehicle while intoxicated - endangerment and operating a vehicle while intoxicated with a BAC of .15 or more. No bond.
July 3 - Tristan Shell, 18, 1100 Park Road, Lot 61, Rochester, booked for disorderly conduct. No bond.
July 2 - Jason Conrad Honeycutt, 44, 4986 E. Wood Drive, Rochester, booked on a warrant and possession of marijuana. Bond: $2,500 surety or $500 surety and $150 cash.
DAVID W. CAMPBELL
JAE-LYNN DIXON
STEVEN TORRELL JOHNSON
CASANDRA REGAN BROWN
ELIZABETH CLEMONS ORRIN PATRICK FROST
LOVA DONNA MAINER
MISTI E. WALKER
ANNE MARIE BAKER
ANTHONY PAUL NEESON
JEREMY D. SWANK
RITA ANNE WALTZ
ANTHONY TODD SOMMERS
WILSON ENIL MARTINEZ ANTUNEZ
ERNEST GENOMA MOSCONI
MANDI LOIS BAUGH
AUTUMN L. RIGGINS
AMANI PRITCHETT
NATALIA KATHERINE OSBORN
BLAIZE GRAESYN LUXAVARRE SMITH
JENNIFER K. YEO JASON CONRAD HONEYCUTT
SPENCER GRAHAM LONG
GARRETT HUNTER ROSE
CORWIN S. BOOKER
ANTJUAN MASON JACK M. BEVERLY JR.
CHANDLER ALLEN LYSELL
STEVEN ADAMS
TRISTAN SHELL
JASON CONRAD HONEYCUTT
Miller copies mother by winning Miss Fulton County title
Text and Photos
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
In 1998, Brianne Miller won the Miss Fulton County crown. On Sunday, July 12, her daughter Vivian Miller repeated the feat.
Vivian Miller, Rochester, was crowned the 2026 Miss Fulton County queen after beating out six other girls in the pageant held at the Fulton County Fairgrounds’ Hudkins Arena.
The 17-year-old Rochester High School senior is also the daughter of Joe Miller.
Vivian Miller wasn’t the only one in her family to win an honor in the pageant Sunday either. Her younger sister, Vanessa Miller, 13, finished as first runner-up in the Teen Miss Fulton County competition.
“It’s such a blessing,” said Vivian Miller of winning Miss Fulton County.
She said her mother’s win “inspired” her.
“I want to thank Jesus for giving me this opportunity,” she said, also thanking her family.
Vivian Miller said Sunday was her first time ever participating in a pageant.
Each contestant gave two onstage responses on a word definition and a fair topic.
Vivian Miller’s word was “commitment.”
“To me, commitment is putting your all into something that you have chosen to do,” she said. “It means sacrificing your time and sometimes your comfort in order to put all of your effort into something. My commitment this year was the Miss Fulton County queen program.”
“I’m so glad I made this commitment because I was able to make so many new friends and to have an amazing experience,” she added.
Vivian Miller also spoke on fair food.
“Fair food is the easiest topic for me to discuss,” she said. “I personally am super in love with the Pork Producers’ (booth). Man, that’s a great meal to have, not to mention the (Rochester) Lions Club ice cream. Thank you for all you do.”
“On top of that, the Optimist Club (of Rochester) is always serving up the crispiest fries, and a lemonade shakeup and elephant ear is my go-to snack when I’m watching a tractor pull in the amphitheater,” she added.
“Thank you.”
To give her responses, Vivian Miller wore a white A-line dress with a halter top and yellow pattern.
She also gave a prepared speech onstage.
“Standing before you on America’s 250th anniversary, I am filled with an overwhelming gratitude for the legacy we all share,” she said. “Two and a half centuries ago, a bold dream of liberty was born, but it is our generation’s responsibility to keep that dream alive today. The true beauty of our nation lies not within our monuments, but within our people.
“It is woven into the fabric of our communities where unique backgrounds unite under a shared promise of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” said Vivian Miller. “Today this historic milestone is a reminder that we are the authors of America’s next chapter. Let us honor the sacrifices in our past, by choosing unity over division, extending compassion to our neighbors and uplifting the next generation.
“Together we can ensure that the torch of freedom burns brightly from sea to shining sea illuminating the path of promise for centuries to come,” she continued. “May God bless America.”
To give her speech, she wore professional wear of a yellow sheath dress and nude pumps.
Vivian hopes to eventually study agronomy and agricultural systems at Purdue University.
She also won awards Sunday for giving the best prepared speech and best interview with judges.
Her court included first runner-up Avarie Montel.
Montel, the 17-year-old daughter of Adam Montel and Ashley Heinzmann, wore a blue evening gown with spaghetti straps and sequins for her eveningwear, winning best in that category.
She also won best professional wear for her gray peplum jacket and black pencil skirt.
The 2026 RHS graduate plans to study rehabilitation sciences at Indiana University South Bend and become a physical therapist.
Second runner-up was Shelby Cahill.
Cahill, the 18-year-old daughter of Trudy Cahill and Terry Cahill, wore a pink strapless ballgown with a bow and tiered bottom for her eveningwear and a white ruffled sheath dress as her professional wear.
She just graduated from Man-
REACTION Vivian Miller reacts to being named the 2026 Miss Fulton County queen on Sunday, July 12, at the Fulton County Fairgrounds.
chester High School and plans to study early childhood education at Purdue Fort Wayne and become a kindergarten teacher.
Rounding out the court was Miss Congeniality Lilly Gerald. She’s 18 and a 2026 RHS graduate. The daughter of Amanda Hazlett will study nursing at IUSB.
Gerald wore a multicolored fitted gown with a slit and spaghetti straps as her eveningwear. For her professional wear, she wore a red dress.
Other contestants Sunday included Jessica Taylor, who won Top Sponsor; Haley Durkes, who won People’s Choice; and Seanna Gudas.
Also held Sunday were the Teen Miss Fulton County, Junior Miss Fulton County and Little Miss Fulton County pageants.
Sophia Baker won the Teen Miss Fulton County pageant, with Abbigail Artist the second runner-up and Honor Court Member Jayden Yarian.
Junior Miss Fulton County was Ali Utter, with Rhemi Thompson the first runner-up, Blakelee Herrold the second runner-up and Sawyer Jones the Honor Court member.
Little Miss Fulton County was Jayne White and first runner-up was Blakely Hass.
S heriff ’ S O ffice r ep O rt S
Continued from page 6
block Wabash Avenue, Rochester. Police were notified of a female lying on the side of the road who may have been struck by a vehicle that had left the scene. The caller later reported it was actually a female deer. Emergency personnel were advised it was not a person, and officers confirmed it was a deer.
2:27 p.m. Wednesday, July 8, 3000 block CR 200N, Rochester. Police were alerted to a man with a backpack walking along the roadway. Officers located the man and gave him a courtesy ride to a restaurant in Akron. He said he was trying to travel east. Officers also spoke with another individual who was about an hour away and was attempting to arrange transportation for him.
2:16 p.m. Wednesday, July 8, 7500 block SR 17, Kewanna. Family mem-
bers reported receiving mail indicating someone was attempting to open a credit card in a deceased person’s name.
10:25 p.m. Tuesday, July 7, 2500 block CR 200N, Rochester. A caller reported a suspicious midsize vehicle backed into the new power grid area.
The caller believed people were attempting to get into the building. An officer responded and spoke with a man who said he worked for the construction crew and had been staying there for three weeks to save money. Officers determined everything checked out.
8:17 p.m. Tuesday, July 7, 4400 block CR 250E, Rochester. A caller reported a vehicle was driving very slowly in front of her house before stopping in the roadway and whistling to encourage her dogs to enter the roadway. The caller followed the vehicle onto SR 25.
When the vehicle pulled over, the driver told her it was against the law to park in the roadway before driving away.
10:41 p.m. Tuesday, July 7, 1200 block West Ninth Street, Rochester. A bicycle was found on a resident’s property.
3:45 p.m. Monday, July 6, 400 block East Phillips Street, Kewanna. A caller reported a man had kidnapped his girlfriend. Police were also told the alleged kidnapper carried four or five guns, was a serial killer, demanded ransom money and was part of a gang of 12 people but had murdered them all. The caller said the alleged kidnapper was about 30 minutes from the caller’s house. The caller was advised to call again if someone showed up.
2:41 p.m. Monday, July 6, 700 block Brentwood Drive, Akron. The theft of a 30-foot trailer was reported.
JUNIOR MISS FULTON COUNTY Ali Utter won the Junior Miss Fulton County title Sunday, July 12, at the Fulton County Fairgrounds. From left are second runner-up Blakelee Herrold, Utter and first runner-up Rhemi Thompson.
LITTLE MISS FULTON COUNTY Jayne White, left, won the Little Miss Fulton County title Sunday, July 12, at the Fulton County Fairgrounds. With her is first runner-up Blakely Hass.
MISS FULTON COUNTY Vivian Miller was crowned the 2026 Miss Fulton County queen Sunday, July 12, at the Fulton County Fairgrounds. Shown from left are second runner-up Shelby Cahill, Miller, first runner-up Avarie Montel and Miss Congeniality Lilly Gerald.
TEEN MISS FULTON COUNTY Sophia Baker won the Teen Miss Fulton County title Sunday, July 12, at the Fulton County Fairgrounds. From left are second runner-up Abbigail Artist, Baker and first runner-up Vanessa Miller.
Short stories
By RUSS DAVIDSON SR. Guest Writer
The Indiana said to the buffalo, “Sorry, I’ve got kids to feed.”
“If only I could run faster,” the
buffalo said. “I don’t like those arrows.”
The frog said to the turtle, “Need a ride to the next lily pad?”
The turtle said, “Not now. It’s time to lie in the sun.”
Updates and happenings
A free meal will be offered from 5:30-7 p.m. Wednesday, July 15, at Rochester Grace Church, 201 W. Seventh St., Rochester. Meals are served by Rochester Grace Church, First Baptist Church, First Christian Church and Mill Creek Missionary Church. All are welcome. Takeout is available.
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The Spark Widow/Widowers Lunch will be held at noon Friday, July 17, at Rochester Church of God, 3048 Southway 31, Rochester. All widows and widowers are encouraged to attend this time of food and fellowship. It is open to the community. Sign-up is encouraged by Sunday, July 12. Call the church office at (574) 223-5922.
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Friends of the Park will host its summer fundraiser with an all-you-can-eat Dan’s Fish Fry dinner from 4-7 p.m. Friday, July 17.
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The American Red Cross will host blood drives at the following locations:
• Woodlawn Health, 1400 E. Ninth St., Rochester, from 1 to 5 p.m. Friday, July 17.
• Rochester Church of Christ, 120 E. Fifth St., Rochester, from
1-6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 4.
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The Mentone Flying Club will host its pancake and sausage breakfast from 7-10 a.m. Saturday, July 18, at the Fulton County Airport. Airplane rides, weather permitting also will be available from 7-10 a.m.
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The Spirit Lake Music Jamboree and Jim Scott Art Show will be held Saturday, July 18, in downtown Rochester as a fundraiser for the Times Theater. The event will feature live music, art, food trucks and more. A list of events includes:
• Art and food trucks, 1 p.m.
• Band No. 1: Jack Boyenton, 3 p.m.
• Band No. 2: The Watchkeepers, 4:30 p.m.
• Band No. 3: Starcat, 7:30 p.m.
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The Akron Town Council will meet at 6 p.m. Monday, July 20, at Town Hall, 206 W. Rochester St., Akron.
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The county commissioners will meet at 6 p.m. Monday, July 20, at the Fulton County Office Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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County council will meet at 5 p.m. Tuesday, July 21, at the Fulton County Office Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
Ninth St., Rochester.
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The board of works will meet at 7:30 a.m. Friday, July 24, at the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Area planning will meet at 7 p.m. Monday, July 27, at the Fulton County Office Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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City council will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 28, at the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Now through Wednesday, Aug. 12, join Heather for water aerobics at 7 p.m. at the Rochester City Pool, 701 E. Sixth St., Rochester. The class is open to the public. Participants should be prepared to actively participate. A $5 donation is suggested to help support the pool.
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The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program of Fulton County connects volunteers ages 55 and older with organizations that use volunteers, such as local food pantries, Habitat for Humanity and community centers. If you are 55 or older and would like to volunteer, contact Anne King at (574) 223-3716.
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2026 FULTON FUN DAY FREE PARADE
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BZA will meet at 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 22, at the Fulton County Office Building, 124 E.
Gentiva Hospice is seeking volunteers to provide companionship by sitting with patients while family members run errands. Contact Anne at (574) 223-3716.
FREE LUNCH — Local community residents lined the sidewalk to enjoy a free lunch on Thursday, July 9. Rochester Telephone Company hosted the lunch at its Eighth Street location. RTC provided hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, chips, cookies, and drinks to the public. Photo by Andrea McKee.
GRILL MASTERS Rochester Telephone Company provided a free community lunch Thursday, July 9, at its Eighth Street location. Grilling hamburgers for the luncheon are RTC employees Martin Cholger, left, and Matt Cohagan. Photo by Lori Carr.
County participates in the reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 8
Text and Photos
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
On July 8, 1776, the general public in the U.S. heard the Declaration of Independence read aloud for the first time.
Two hundred and fifty years later, Fulton County residents read the same document aloud in solidarity with people across the nation.
The county’s America 250th committee hosted the reading on Wednesday, July 8, to mark the country’s milestone anniversary.
More than 60 people gathered for a short ceremony on the Fulton County Courthouse lawn.
The event began with Fulton
County Scouting America Scouts carrying flags and the Fulton County Veterans Honor Guard standing at attention.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, with the Fulton County Choral Club also performing a few songs.
Eight speakers then read portions of the Declaration. They included: Jan Sawyer, Ted Waggoner, Amy Roe, Fulton Superior Judge Greg Heller, Kasey Lee, Andy Perkins, Andrea Roe and Diane Kreh.
The public could follow along if they wished with copies of the Declaration handed out when they arrived.
Following the reading, the honor guard played taps.
READERS Eight people read from the Declaration on Wednesday. They included in the front from left Amy Roe, Kasey Lee, Andrea Roe, Jan Sawyer and Ted Waggoner. In the back are Fulton Superior Judge Greg Heller, Andy Perkins and Diane Kreh.
CROWD People listen during a public reading of the Declaration of Independence outside the Fulton County Courthouse. It was put on by the county’s committee to mark America’s 250th birthday.
JUDGE GREG HELLER Fulton Superior Judge Greg Heller reads from the Declaration.
SPEAKING Manitou Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution Regent and Connect Coordinator for Fulton County’s America 250th committee, Candy Hayes, briefly speaks during the ceremony.
CHORAL CLUB The Fulton County Choral Club performs.
SLEEP IN HEAVENLY PEACE RECEIVES DONATION — On Thursday, July 9, the Akron Las Donas Club presented a $1,000 donation to the Akron Lions Club in support of the upcoming Sleep in Heavenly Peace Akron Bed Build Day, which will be held from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 8, at the Akron Community Center.
Sleep in Heavenly Peace is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that “No Child Sleeps on the Floor in Our Town.” The contribution will help provide beds for children in need throughout the community. Photo provided by Faith Kamp.
Charge the Hill 5K set for July 18
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
Rochester Community Schools’ cross-country runners will benefit from a 5K this week.
The Charge the Hill 5K Run and Walk is 9 a.m. Saturday, July 18, at the Rochester City Park.
People may preregister by contacting Coach Troy Pryor at troyapryor@gmail.com or Coach Peyton Hiatt at peyton.hiatt@zebras.net. They may also register at 8 a.m. at the race.
The cross-country student-athletes will be directly part of the event too. If people give a cash donation, the runners will go up the sledding hill for the participants, with participants still completing the regular course.
“The coaches felt like this was a fun way to incorporate the athletes into the event and spare the community from having to run or walk up the hill twice if they so choose,” said Pryor.
New books at Akron library
The Akron Carnegie Public Library, 205 E. Rochester St., Akron, has announced its latest additions. For more information call (574) 893-4113.
“An Unconventional Lady,” by Sarah E. Ladd. Ella Wilde always knew she was different than other women. As the daughter of Keatley Hall School for Young Men’s headmaster, Ella has long dreamed of opening a school for girls that would meet the needs of inquisitive, brilliant and unconventional young women just like her - girls who longed for the education exclusively reserved for boys. But there’s just one catch: Unless she marries before her father dies, Keatley Hall will pass into the hands of a distant cousin.
“Not Exactly Mr. Darcy,” by Carolyn Miller. While caring for her ailing grandmother, Olivia Bennett finds additional work at nearby Hartbury Hall, one of England’s great houses that was once used as Pemberley in a filmed production of Pride and Prejudice. The head gardener there, however, proves to be anything but the gentlemanly hero of that famous book. Little does she know that behind Liam Browne’s brusque exterior is both a family tragedy and a legacy that demands truth and honor, creating a crisis that only Liv’s vivacious determination can resolve.
“The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion Vol. 1,” by Beth Brower. The Year is 1883, and Emma M. Lion has returned to her London neighborhood of St. Crispian’s. But Emma’s plans for a charmed and studious life are sabotaged by her eccentric Cousin Archibald, her formidable Aunt Eugenia and the slightly odd denizens of St. Crispian’s. Armed with wit and a sideways amusement, Emma documents the curious realities of her life at Lapis Lazuli House.
The cost is $20 without a T-shirt and $25 with one. Awards will be given out to the top male and female runners and walkers around 10 a.m. after the race.
Pryor said the idea for the 5K was inspired by a fundraising event put on by former Rochester High School Coach Scott Stalbaum.
“However Coach Hiatt and I wanted to do something that connected the community to the (Rochester Middle School) and RHS teams’ home cross-country course,” said Pryor. “So we decided to host a 5K at the City Park allowing the community to experience what the athletes are doing when they race.”
He said monies from the event will be used for “extra uniforms, shoes, spikes, course equipment, food and drinks for race days and team development activities” for the team.
“Some years we have used the funds raised to take the entire team to camp to train and participate in team-building activities,” said Pryor.
He stated the event is held not just for the money, but also “to generate community interest in the sport itself.”
“Even if you are not one of the award winners, events like these are always tons of fun and wonderful ways to help build community while supporting Rochester student-athletes,” said Pryor.
“All Booked Up,” by Melody Carlson. Empty nester Virginia Meadows faces financial struggle and pressure from her daughter to leave her beloved family home, brimming with memories and a cherished library. Determined to keep the house, she opens her home to women seeking lifestyle changes, but when romantic schemes begin to brew, Virginia starts to reconsider love as a possibility.
“Judge Stone,” by Viola Davis and James Patterson. All rise for Judge Stone. The most respected citizen in Union Springs, Ala. (population 3,314), is Judge Mary Stone. She holds two responsibilities sacred: running her family farm and presiding over her courtroom. It’s there she draws the most controversial case in the history of the South. Criminally, it’s open-and-shut. No judge can satisfy everyone. It would be dangerous to try. But Judge Stone is willing to fight to bring justice to the people and place she loves.
“Since the Day We Kissed,” by Kerk Murray. When Ethan Bennett returns to Hadley Cove after 22 years, Kara Walker is forced to confront the past she thought she’d left behind. With his rescue dog, Hero, at his side, Ethan is stirring up more than just old memories. As they nav-
Continued on page 11
CUTE BABY WINNERS — Winners of the Akron Fourth of July Penny-a-Vote Cute Baby contest were announced at Akron Elementary School during the Fourth of July Queen and Mr. Firecracker and Miss Sparkler contests held on June 28. The contest was sponsored by the Akron Las Donas Club. From left are first place winner, Charlotte, daughter of Kaylyn and Devin Madeford; second place winner, Collyn, daughter of
Kaitlyn Amich; and third place winner, Elianna, daughter of Kayla and Joe Reed. Photo provided by Akron Las Donas Club.
5K
WINNERS — Participants and winners of Akron’s Fourth of July Firecracker
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Female run winners pictured from left are Lorena Rivera, Adison Hayes, Barb Garringer, Sara VanLaningham and overall female finisher Eliza Hall. Not pictured are Chesnee Miller and Anna Roe.
New books
Continued from page 10
igate their tangled past, Kara and Ethan must decide whether to keep their secrets hidden and lose each other forever or risk it all for a love they thought was lost.
“Ambush of the Heart,” by Mary Connealy. While transporting an escaped prisoner to Fort Russell, Wyo., U.S. Marshal Owen Riley and his group are attacked, seriously injuring Boone Bridger. Boone’s sister, Delaney, helps Owen by nursing the others back
Caston school board meeting
Caston School Corporation, located at 9815 S. SR 25, Rochester, will hold its regular school board meeting at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 15.
to health while danger looms even closer. Despite the dangerous gang of outlaws on their heels, romance sparks between the wandering lawman and the spirited Delaney as they all fight for survival.
“Kin,” by Tayari Jones. Vernice and Annie grow up as motherless neighbors and close friends in Honeysuckle, La., but their lives diverge as they reach adulthood. Vernice, raised by a protective aunt, leaves for Spelman College, where she becomes part of an influential community of Black women and confronts new experiences shaped by privilege, ambition, and social inequality. Annie, driven by the desire to find the mother who abandoned her, embarks on a journey marked by instability, risk and emotional discovery, ultimately facing life-threatening circumstances.
5K WALK WINNERS — The top three finishers of the Akron Fourth of July Firecracker 5K Walk are recognized following the event sponsored by the Akron Las Donas Club. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Henry Township Fire Department for fireworks. Pictured from left are Juan Baca Sr., Tim Smith and Juan Baca Jr. Photo provided by Akron Las Donas Club.
MALE 5K RUN WINNERS — Male winners of the Akron Fourth of July Firecracker 5K Run, sponsored by the Akron Las Donas Club, are pictured following the event. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Henry Township Fire Department for fireworks. Pictured
from left are Shane Newsome, Timothy Roe, Owen Hill, Jake Bloom, Shaun Mudd representing Jason Rich and Bob Mills. Not pictured are Jose Rivera, Ethan Caudill and overall male finisher Reece Johnson. Photo provided by Akron Las Donas Club.
FEMALE
RUN
5K Run
Walk, sponsored by
Akron Las Donas Club,
recognized
event.
portion
proceeds
donated
Henry
Fire Department
fireworks.
Photo provided by Akron Las Donas Club.
ANDY PERKINS Andy Perkins reads from the Declaration.
DIANE KREH Diane Kreh reads from the Declaration.
JAN SAWYER Jan Sawyer reads from the Declaration.
TED WAGGONER Ted Waggoner reads from the Declaration.
SCOUTS Fulton County Scouting America Scouts carry flags at the start of the ceremony.
Auction Starts At 5 P.M. (Eastern Time) Doors Open @ 4 P.M.
TED’S AUCTION CENTER 11536 4A RD., PLYMOUTH, IN 46563
SOUTH OF LAPAZ OR NORTH OF PLYMOUTH ON OLD U.S. 31 (MICHIGAN RD.) TURN EAST AT TRI-WAY THEATRE, FOLLOW 4A TO AUCTION, OR OFF THE 31 BY-PASS EXIT 233 (LAPAZ EXIT) ONTO U.S. 6 EAST ¼ MILE TO LILAC RD., TURN SOUTH & FOLLOW SIGNS TO AUCTION ... PLENTY OF PARKING.
TABLES FULL OF GLASSWARE & SMALLS … CUTE SEWING BOX FULL, FLATS OF OLD. ADV. TINS, FLOWER POTS, LIKE NEW NINJA AIR FRYER, SMALL DORM REFRIG, LIKE NEW VICTROLA TABLE TOP AM-FM-CD-PHONO PLAYER W/BLUETOOTH, 2-OLD CHILDS FOOD DISHES, KFC VINYL BEACH BAG ?, BEANIE BABIES, 3-PYREX BOWLS, OLD ADV. ORANGE CRATE, CAKE BAKING PANS & MOLDS, NEAT MODERN COPPER BOWL SINK W/WATERFALL FAUCET, FRAMED PICTURES-PRINTS-OIL ON CANVAS, TABLES WILL BE FULL.
FURNITURE … NOT A WHOLE LOT OF FURNITURE ... NICE OLDER COMPLETE FULL BED-NICE BOX & MATTRESS-DRESSER W/MIRROR-CHEST-NIGHTSTAND, 2-WOOD SHELVES, FOLDING ALUM. WALKERS, SHOWER CHAIR, OLD FOLDING CHECKER TABLE, NICE PORTABLE MASSAGE TABLE, OLD OAK CHIMMNEY? CABINET.
GUY STUFF … COMPLETE WINE/BEER MAKING KIT, 7-BENCH TOP NUT & BOLT ORGANIZERS W/GOODIES, METAL REPRO. COKE THERMOMETER, SET OF 6 DREWRYS BEER GLASSES, 2-SETS ALUM. ADJ. CRUTCHES, OLDER KENNEDY METAL CARPENTERS BOX, BELT BUCKLES, REPRO. CAST IRON LIGHTHOUSE DOOR STOP, CROWN ROYAL CHECKERS/BACKGAMMON SET, 1973 BUICK REGAL BROCHURE, GALLON GLASS MILK BOTTLE, COMPLETE STATE QUARTER SET, 1921 LAPORTE, IN, ATLAS/PLAT BOOK, 4-OLD VIEW MASTERS, ASST. MODERN TIN FRICTION TOYS, 24% GERMAN LEAD CRYSTAL TRAIN PAPERWEIGHT, MECHANICAL PEN & PENCIL SETS, 2-LOG CHAINS, 48 STAR KIDS PARADE FLAGS, ASST. MISC. HAND TOOLS, HAY HOOK, LAFREE LUMBER, BREMEN, IN, NAIL APRON, LARGE KEEPER SNATCH STRAP, WILD FORCE TRAIL CAM, CRAFTSMAN 7” GRINDER/BUFFER, HITCH PINS, HERCULES MDL. C SPLIT RIM TIRE CHANGER FOR MDL. T?, MORE.
100’S OF BOX LOTS … TABLES WILL BE FULL!!! LUGGAGE, COUNTER TOP APPLIANCES, GLASSWARE, FLOWER POTS, DECOR, BOTTLES, GREEN GLASS INSULATORS, DVD’S ... MORE.
VIEW PICTURES & UP-DATES AT WWW.GOTOAUCTION.COM
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***WE ARE A NO RESERVE—NO BUYERS PREMIUM AUCTION*** ALL SALES FINAL ... NO GUARANTEES OF ANY KIND! NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ACCIDENTS OR MERCHANDISE AFTER SOLD ! INSIDE SEATED AUCTION — PLENTY OF PARKING RESTROOMS — CONCESSIONS
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PHONE... 574-936-SALE (7253)
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NEXT AUCTION
MONDAY NIGHT, AUGUST 3rd ANOTHER HUGE ANTIQUE & COLLECTIBLES AUCTION FROM THE VEATCH ESTATE OF LAPORTE, IN!!
This sale is PACKED with a huge variety!!! Sofa and matching loveseat, recliner, coffee table, sofa bed, whitewashed dining table & chairs, antique Rocking Chair, primitive cabinet and MCM blanket chest. Antique McCoy Weeping Gold, lots of vintage, reenactment cloaks and reloading, lots of jewelry, beautiful antique handmade quilts and comforter quilt, linens. Cake decorating supplies and kitchen, vintage Revereware pots & pans, pressure cookers, small appliances. Many, many cookbooks and other books. Loads of crafting supplies, Christmas and holiday decor, lots of nice floral silks and boxes of beautiful fabric! Vintage and antique glassware, grill, antique trunk, composter, concrete blocks and old bricks. Camping, garden, garage, tools and so much more!! Picture/details on estatesales.net
332 W. Walnut St. Argos
Sunday, July 19 • 9am-4pm (Signup sheet available by 7 am) Monday, July 20 • 9am-4pm
Fulton County’s America 250 mural on display at the Fulton County Public Library
ALASKA The panel with the state of Alaska is shown on Fulton County’s mural depicting the U.S. for America’s 250th birthday now on display at the Fulton County Public Library in Rochester. Photo by Leah Sander.
MURAL Fulton County’s mural for America’s 250th is now on display at the Fulton County Public Library in Rochester. Shown from left are five of the artists who worked on it: Deb Marburger, Lori Bean, Erica Coffing, Candy Hayes and Christine Walsh. Photo by Leah Sander.
First Federal Savings Bank Customer Appreciation Day
Sound Street to perform at Riverview Community Church
Sound Street will perform at Riverview Community Church, 3780 SR 110, at 6 p.m. Sunday, July 19.
Since July 2020, Sound Street has been captivating audiences with their performances and heartfelt message. From their moment at the 2021 National Quartet Convention to becoming nomi-
nees for Favorite New Artist in the 2024 Singing News Fan Awards, their rise has been remarkable.
With an unmistakable sound and a passion for spreading the Gospel, Sound Street has delivered powerful chart-topping hits: “Mansions” climbed to No. 11 on the Singing News Top 80 chart and “Through The Furnace Fire” reached No. 26. Sound Street is a rising star and a trailblazer in the genre.
Sound Street signed a recording agreement with Crossroads, which has propelled their music to new heights. Their album, Good Seed, became a favorite and grabbed the attention of industry leaders.
Jaylie Vanderslice earned Favorite Young Artist nominations in 2023 and 2024 in the Fan Awards. Her natural, God-given talent shines, taking center stage and solidifying her role with Sound Street.
With over 80 performances annually, Sound Street has appeared at The National Quartet Convention, The Ark Encounter, Silver Dollar City and many churches and other events.
Sound Street is a passionate ministry committed to sharing the Gospel through music that uplifts and inspires. Be blessed by the energy, passion and powerful message of Sound Street.
Please invite family, friends and neighbors to this concert. There is no ticket charge. An opportunity for a love offering will be given.
CEO AND FAMILY First Federal Savings Bank President and CEO Evan Gottschalk, center, is shown with his sons, Drew Gottschalk, left, and Luke Gottschalk at the bank’s Customer Appreciation Day.
CHATTING Donna Werner, left, and Tomi Brock are shown at the Customer Appreciation Day.
CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY Friday, July 10, was Customer Appreciation Day at First Federal Savings Bank in Rochester. Shown are people enjoying a free lunch at the event.
LUNCH From left Josie Jeanneret, Austin Crill, Tony Crill and Valeri Crill are shown at the Customer Appreciation Day.
PICK A DUCK John Evans, left, and Andrea Eggleston are shown at the Customer Appreciation Day.
