Lee the Horse Logger, a traveling horseman who has spent nearly two decades on the road, made a stop in Cutshall Park on Wednesday, July 2, accompanied by his 19-year-old Suffolk Punch draft horse, Jesse, also known as “Moose.”
Lee, who began his journey in 2005 after leaving Montana, has traveled through 27 states with various horses and wagons, living what he describes as a “way of life” rather than a lifestyle.
He currently resides in Alaska but continues to travel yearround across the United States by horse-drawn wagon, averaging 10 to 12 miles per day in cooler months.
The Suffolk Punch breed, Lee said, is considered one of the most endangered major draft horse breeds, with possibly only 500 to 600 remaining worldwide.
Jesse, who pulls a lightweight aluminum-topped wagon built on hay wagon running gear, was originally from Nevada.
Maintaining Jesse’s health on the road is Lee’s top priority, including regular veterinary visits and careful planning to avoid heat and disease risks found in the southern U.S. He spends approximately $700 monthly on care and supplies for Jesse.
Lee’s travels have brought him to nursing homes and schools for informal educational visits, though he noted Indiana’s outreach opportunities can be limited due to institutional restrictions. He described the work as physically demand-
HEAD ON — Jesse, the draft horse and Lee, the Horse Logger, stand in front of their wagon, which serves as their home during cross-country travels.
ATTITUDE — Jesse, a Suffolk Punch draft horse also known as “Moose,” turns away from owner Lee after posing for a photo at Cutshall Park, Akron.
ing and no longer recreational.
“I used to be on TV and radio all the time,” he said. “But the fun wore off about 19 years ago.”
Now, Lee keeps a low profile, relying on occasional public generosity and connections with local individuals.
During his Akron stop, he
received assistance and a meal from residents, including John and Penny Niccum, and support from Akron Park Board President Kirk Robinson and community member Chad Kuhn. Jesse, known to tip water buckets and nibble on supplies, remains his steadfast companion on the journey.
“You connect to them in a way that other people just don’t understand,” Lee said.
Readers wishing to support Lee and his horse, Jesse, on their journey can donate via Venmo, a mobile payment service, to @xamericabyhorse.
WAGON — Lee the Horse Logger tends to his draft horse Jesse outside their wagon home in Cutshall Park, Akron.
K now Y our n eighbor Shafer finds identity and expression through evolving art
By LIBBY HUBBARD Staff Writer
For Rochester native Josh Shafer, art began as a personal outlet; now it’s a defining passion.
What started nearly seven years ago with repurposed thrift store canvases has grown into a vibrant body of mixed-media work that reflects Shafer’s inner world and evolving perspective.
“I’ve always had an interest in art,” Shafer said. “I just started painting canvases randomly. I didn’t really know where it was going, just that I had a drive for it.”
Shafer uses a variety of materials, including acrylic paint, Sharpies, paint markers and sometimes spray paint, blending them into vivid, layered compositions.
One of his most meaningful works, a symbol-rich painting featured in his online profile, took two years to complete.
“I worked on it in every kind of mood and emotion,” Shafer remarked.
Symbols, molecules, psychedelic imagery and even imagined hieroglyphics appear throughout his work, many inspired by the influence of other
local artists.
One of Shafer’s early inspirations was the artist behind “Fourth Eye Art,” whose live painting demonstrations and collaborative spirit sparked Shafer’s commitment to creative expression.
“It’s way more complicated than it looks,” he said. “But it
got me into it.”
Though his art was shaped during some personally challenging chapters, Shafer sees creation as a form of self-expression and healing.
“It’s been a form of self-expression,” he said. “It’s helped me through a lot.”
He now works as a screen
printer at Winning Edge in Rochester, a role that blends his artistic skills with his professional life.
Shafer also hopes to eventually share his passion through community engagement.
“I’ve thought about teaching art classes,” he said. “Not because I’m Picasso or anything, but because sometimes people don’t know they’re creative until they’re given the chance.”
He believes a dedicated community space for artists to “make a mess” would encourage creative growth locally.
“It would be really sweet,” he added. “People would find that useful.”
Shafer’s art can be found on Instagram under the handle @3rdplanetart, where he sells original paintings and plans to release prints.
“I think I’ve sold every painting I’ve done,” he said. “It’s cool to see that other people connect with my art.”
CANVAS — A closer look at one of Schafer’s works. Photo provided by Josh Shafer.
SHAFER — Joshua Shafer poses with a large canvas he repurposed for his mixed-media artwork, finding solace through the creative process.
Photo provided by Josh Shafer.
Good Neighbors
Good Neighbors is a column in which readers share friendly advice. To ask or answer questions, write ‘the PAPER’, Good Neighbors, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542; fax 800-886-3796; or e-mail abias@the-papers.com. Please no phone calls.
Editor’s Note: The Good Neighbors column is for people looking for hard-to-find or old items or for people seeking advice, not for items you can find in a local store or sell through the help of a classified ad.
This column will now run every other week.
Let’s Study The Bible —
(Read:
Mark 4:1-41)
“With many such parables spake (Jesus) the word unto them, as they were able to hear it” (Mark 4:33).
Insight: A parable in the Bible is a simple story to provide a more profound lesson or teaching! From the divine wisdom of Jesus Christ, we can learn transcendent, everlasting truths in the simple parables of the Bible.
First, sowing (Mark 4:1-20, 30-34): Jesus explained the parable and emphasized that knowing it was basic to understanding all parables (verse 13, and see Matthew 13:1-23). Unless our hearts are prepared to receive the seed of the Bible, we cannot grow in grace or knowledge (2 Peter 3:18).
The sower originally was Jesus, who came teaching the word of God (the seed) and seeking a harvest. Today, anyone who shares God’s word with others is sowing the seed. Like seed, God’s word is “living and powerful” (Hebrews 4:12) and, when cultivated, can produce fruit.
Second, informing (Mark 4:21-25). The word “hear” is used 13 times in this chapter and refers to the receiving of God’s truth into the inner person, just the way
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soil receives the seed. We must be careful how we hear (Luke 8:18) and what we hear (verse 24); for this determines what we have to share with others.
We do not receive the word so we can enjoy it by ourselves. We receive that we might share, just as a lamp gives itself to provide light for the house (see Matthew 5:15-16 and Luke 11:33-36).
Third, reaping (Mark 4:2629). This parable can be summarized in four words: sowing (verse 26), sleeping (verse 27), growing (verse 28), reaping (verse 29). All we can do is sow the seed; God alone can give the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6-7).
We cannot make the seed grow; in fact, we do not fully understand how the seed grows. Our task is to sow the seed and be alert when the harvest is ready (John 4:35-38).
While sleeping is sometimes a picture of sin (Romans 13:11-14; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11), here it simply reminds us that hard-working people need their rest (see Mark
6:31). If workers do not take care of themselves, they cannot do the work God has called them to do.
Fourth, trusting (Mark 4:3541). Jesus completed the lesson and then gave his disciples an unexpected examination! They had listened to the word of God, and that word should have increased their faith (Romans 10:17). So that they might not fail the test! It is not unusual for terrible storms to come suddenly on the Sea of Galilee, although this one may have been satanic in origin.
The word “rebuked” in verse 39 is the same word Jesus used when dealing with the demons (Mark 1:25). Perhaps the enemy was trying to keep Jesus from arriving at Gadara, where He would deliver two demoniacs from Satan’s power. “With Christ in the vessel, you can smile at the storm”— if your faith is in Christ and him alone.
Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines free at rcpbibleoutlines. com. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.
Fish game
By RUSS DAVIDSON SR. Guest Writer
I played the fish game and caught one, but it cost me a ton.
The fish said, “Have more fun, spend a buck, it might change
your luck.” But before it was over it cost me a fin.
The bell started to ring, the crab grabbed the snail and the octopus stole the money chest. I gave it my best but went home with less.
By THE REV. RON PURKEY
O B ituaries
Beulah Mae
“Goldie” Cox
Former Employee Of Hart Schaffner & Marx And The Bindery
Beulah Mae “Goldie” Cox, 97, Rochester, passed away at 7:29 a.m. Sunday, June 29, 2025, at her residence.
She was born on July 1, 1927, in Prestonsburg, Ky., the daughter of Oscar and Judie (Ousley) Bradley. She first married Robert Eugene Cooper, May 20, 1945, they had four children; Judy Ann, Linda Sue, Gloria Kay and Barbara Jean. They later divorced. She later married, Cleon LeRoy Cox, Jan. 28, 1967; he preceded her in death Nov. 12, 2001.
Beulah had worked at Hart, Schaffner & Marx, Rochester and for The Bindery, North Manchester. She had also been a child care provider. She belonged to the Gospel Hill Church, Silver Lake and Westside Apostolic Church, Rochester. She enjoyed crocheting, baking and cooking, and tending to her flower garden.
Survivors include her daughters, Judy Ann (Noel) Kamp, Linda Sue Miller, and Gloria (Warren) Lease, all of Rochester; grandchildren, Rob (Lisa) Kamp, Kokomo, Nicholle McLochlin, Richelle (Tom) Ngondo, Traci Miller, Kassandra (Devon) McCane and Jeremy (Becci) Zeiger, all of Rochester and Ricky Miller Jr., Hardeeville, S.C.; 22 great-grandchildren; and 12 great-great- grandchildren.
Preceding her in death were her parents; daughter, Barbara Jean Cooper; brothers, Claude Bradley Sr. and Floyd Bradley Sr.; sisters, Dorcas Marie Kovach and Myrtle Gray; granddaughter, Tina Goble; son-in-law, Ricky Miller; grandson-in-law, Jeff McLochlin; and great-granddaughter, Alexis Marie Hamilton-Miller.
Funeral services were held at noon Thursday, July 3, at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester.
Interment was in the Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rochester.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Fulton County Animal Adoption and Education Center.
Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh.com.
Mark Alan Turnpaugh
NASCAR, Chicago Cubbies And Kansas City Chiefs Fan
Mark Alan Turnpaugh, 64, residing between Rochester, and Burkett, died at 3:20 p.m. Monday, June 30, 2025, at Lutheran Hospital of Indiana, Fort Wayne.
He was born on Jan. 18, 1961, in Kokomo, the son of Weldon and Patricia (Dalhover) Turnpaugh. On Sept. 5, 1987, in Logansport, he married Michele Anne Seymour. She preceded him in death on Feb. 13, 2007. Mark married Vicki Jo Hays on Dec. 15, 2012, in Bourbon; who survives.
He worked for Lobdell Emery, Argos, and for Rochester Community School Corporation, retiring in 2020. He enjoyed NASCAR, guitars, Kansas City Chiefs and the Chicago Cubbies.
Survivors include his wife; Vicki Turnpaugh, Rochester; daughter, Chelsie Turnpaugh, Arizona; grandchildren, Gracelyn, Brylynn, Trey, Karlie, and Liam; brothers, Steve Turnpaugh, Tippecanoe and Mike Turnpaugh, Macy; sisters, Teresa Romine, Indianapolis and Marla Pelszynski, Burkett; and several nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death were his parents; and son, Matthew Turnpaugh, in 2021.
Graveside services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 12, at the Fulton Cemetery, Fulton.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Fulton County Animal Adoption and Education Center.
Arrangements by Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester. Online condolences may be expressed at zimmermanbrosfh. com.
Linda S. Gillman
Linda S. Gillman, 75, Akron, died at 10:25 p.m. Friday, July 4, 2025, at her residence.
She was born on Nov. 28, 1949. On July 7, 1967, she married Lanny Gillman; who survives.
Additional survivors are daughters, Chris (Craig) Williamson, Akron, Michelle (Mitch) Holloway, Mentone, Nicole Wareham, Bourbon and Andria (Matt) Smith, Akron; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; sisters, Florence Whitt, Hurley, Va., Donna (Bill) Gillman, Mentone and Rita (Walter) Charles, Etna Green.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Danny Ray Lester; and sisters, Sherry Jackson, Pamela “Bubbles” Lester, Sharon Lester, twins, Lois Lester and Lillian “EG” Cline.
Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 8, at Hartzler Funeral Home, 305 W. Rochester St., Akron. Pastor Larrie Kreft officiated.
Interment followed in Nichols Cemetery, Akron.
Memorial contributions can be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or to the local animal shelter of your choosing.
Online condolences can be shared with the family at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.
Margaret Louise Mort
Margaret
Louise Mort, 84, Silver Lake, died at 5:57 a.m. Friday, June 27, 2025.
She was born on Jan. 1, 1941. On June 19, 1971, she married Hugh D. Mort on June 19, 1971; who preceded her in death in 2009.
She is survived by two children, Leonard (Dawn) Gagnon and Wendy (Michael) Shelpman, both of Silver Lake; one sister, Jean Lursen, Leesburg; sister-in-law, Betty Morgan, Mishawaka; six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and one greatgreat-grandchild.
She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Bruce Gagnon; brother, Raymond Morgan; and sister, Donnabell Merica.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, July 18, at the Silver Creek Church of God, 6504 W. 1300 S., Silver Lake, with Pastor David Sullivan officiating.
Friends may visit one hour prior to the memorial service, at the church.
Interment will be in the Silver Creek Cemetery at a later date.
Master Joshua Cain Edison Jr.
Master Joshua Cain Edison Jr, six months, 11 days old, Rochester , died at 8:49 p.m. Thursday, June 26, 2025, at his home.
He was born on Dec. 17, 2024.
MASTER
JOSHUA CAIN EDISON JR.
He is survived by his parents, Joshua and Loretta; his brother, Asher Lee See; maternal grandparents, Danny and Dorie See, Athens; grandmother, Deborah Tharp; one aunt; and his canine buddy, Roscoe.
He is was preceded in death by his grandmother; and aunt, Tonja Hicks.
A celebration of life service was held at 3 p.m. Tuesday, July 8, in Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 W. 18th St., Rochester, with Pastor Thad Stewart officiating.
Electronic expressions of sympathy may be made to his family at goodfamilyfh.com.
CLinda G. Miner
Linda
Saturday,
Malachi Elliott
Loghan and Dakota Elliott, Rochester, are the parents of an infant, Malachi, born at 7:32 p.m. Friday, June 27, in Woodlawn Health. The baby weighed 9.65 ounces and was 21.25 inches long.
Maternal grandparent is Della Elliott, Rochester.
Paternal grandparent is David Neace, Rochester.
Maternal great-grandparent is Sheila Northcutt, Monterey.
Paternal great-grandparent is Willis Northcutt III, Somerset, Ky.
O unty r ep O rt
Court News Circuit Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Circuit Court, Judge Arthur Christopher Lee presiding: Superior Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Superior Court, Judge Gregory L. Heller presiding: Complaints
Barclays Bank Delaware v. Andrew Parry, Rochester, $1,571.39
Onemain Financial Group v. Donnie Davis, Rochester, $11,345.36
Orbit Leasing v. Laroy Williams, Rochester, $6,068.21; Ryan Smith, Rochester, $9,994.97
Capital One v. Wendy Merrill, Rochester, $3,652.98; Richard Hanson, Rochester, $3,759.34; Richard Hanson, Rochester, $3,417.40
LVNV Funding LLC v. Melissa Merritt Williams, Rochester, $6,687.03
Drive Now Auto Credit Company v. Destiny Galbraith, Rochester, $9,192.93; Sarah Blodgett, Tipton, $10,115.39
Credit Acceptance Corporation v. Robert Clawson, Star City, $12,880.18
Traffic Violations
The following fines and levies were paid in Fulton County courts: Disregarding stop sign — Marcus Williams, Warsaw, $164.50
Driving while suspended — Austin Weller, Mishawaka, $164.50
Bristol, $154.50; Nana Asare Osafo Mensah, Fort Worth, Texas, $154.50; Lori Sebasty, New Carlisle, $164.50; Ethan Richard, Rochester, $154.50; Dylan Schultz-Nelson, Granger, $164.50; Benjamin Williams, Fulton, $154.50; Lauren McNew, Bremen, $154.50; Jacob Scheele, Paragon, $154.50; Rachel Ready, Tega Cay, S.C., $175; Loretta Abdul-Ghani, Indianapolis, $164.50; Asher Javaid, Goshen, $164.50; Molly Fagan, Louisville, Ky., $154.50
Operating a motor vehicle without financial responsibility — Dillan Bradley, Culver, $175 Operating with expired plates — Kim Olinger, Rochester, $164
Marriage Licenses
The following couples have applied for marriage licenses in the office of Fulton County Clerk of the Court: Blevins-Middleton Skyler James Blevins, 33, Kalamazoo, Mich., and Alexis Middleton, 26, Kalamazoo, Mich. Lewis-Laskowski
Travis Lewis, 31, Rochester, and Brittany Laskowski, 32, Rochester. Carraher-Sibert
Michael Carraher, 22, Centerville, Ohio, and Meredith Sibert, 21, Rochester. Davis-Lawson
Antonio Davis, 51, Rochester, and Vonda Lawson, Rochester.
Failure of occupant to use a safety belt — Michael Kennedy, Plymouth, $25
Memorial contributions can be made to the Silver Creek Church of God, 6504 W. 1300 S., Silver Lake, IN 46982.
Online condolences may be offered to the family at earllovefuneralhome. com.
No driver’s license — Suzanne Deaver, Fulton, $164.50 Speeding — Ean Frederick, Elkhart, $154.50; Ronald Reisman, Carmel, $164.50; Marisa Weaver,
Parade entries being sought for Fulton Fun Day
Parade entries are being sought for the 24th annual Fulton Fun Day free parade to be held on Saturday, Aug. 24. Entry forms may be found at fultonlibertylions.com, or may be picked up at Fulton’s library or post office.
BEULAH MAE “GOLDIE” COX
LINDA S. GILLMAN
MARGARET LOUISE MORT
MARK ALAN TURNPAUGH
G. Miner, 70, Warsaw, died
July 5, 2025. Arrangements are pending with Zimmerman Bro. Funeral Home, Rochester.
TOP FEMALE PARTICIPANTS Shown are the top female age group winners in the Akron 4th of July
Firecracker 5K. From left are Lorena Rivera, Allyson Calloway, Sandra Cheesman, Stephanie Amspaugh, Jenny Draper and Lexis Montel. Not shown are top female finisher, Chesney Miller, and Emma Collison. Photo provided by James and Brenda Ross.
TOP 5K MALE FINISHERS Shown are the top male finishers in the Akron 4th of July Firecracker 5K.
From left are Eric Linn, Bob Mills, Craig Miller, Leandro Javier, Patrick Quinn and Ethan Quinn. Not shown are Jonathon Ruiz and Shane Newsome. Photo provided by James and Brenda Ross.
TOP WALKERS Shown are the top walkers in Akron’s 4th of July Firecracker 5K. From left are Juan Baca Sr., Tim Smith and Juan Baca Jr. Photo provided by James and Brenda Ross.
Updates and happenings in and around the area
The next Coffee & Conversations with the Chamber of Commerce will be from 7:30-8:30 a.m. Thursday, July 10, at Rochester Dining, 835 IN-25, Rochester. Complimentary, included in your chamber membership. Breakfast will be available for purchase. For more information email lauren@ fultoncountychamber.com, visit fultoncountychamber.com to get registered.
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Kewanna Union Township Public Library will be celebrating National Ice Cream Month with an Ice Cream Social at 5 p.m. Thursday, July 10. There will be lots of toppings to make your own sundae. Everyone is welcome to attend.
For more details call (574) 6532011, check out the Facebook page, or visit the website at kewanna.lib.in.us.
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Board of works meeting will be at 8:30 a.m. Friday, July 11, at the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Friday Night Live, “Music in the Park” will be from 6-9 p.m. Friday, July 11, at Akron Downtown Community Square, 107 E. Rochester St., Akron. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy free live music by Brandt Carmichael. Organized by Akron Las Donas Club.
Ebenezer Church ice cream so-
cial will be from 5-8 p.m. Saturday, July 12, at 1100N and Meridian Road (Miami County). There will be sandwiches, pie, cake and 12 homemade ice cream flavors. Bake sale. Freewill donation.
—o—
For more information about the Samaritans Purse Operation Christmas Child, plan to attend a information event at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 13, at New Alliance Church, 3529 High St., Logansport. To learn more about this ministry contact: Peg at (574) 817-0637, Michelle at (574) 398-1974, Andrea at (574) 870-2562, or Mark and Kathy at (574) 223-1500.
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Park board will meet at 6 p.m. Monday, July 14, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Drainage board meeting will be at 9 a.m. Monday, July 14, in the Fulton County Annex Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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Senior movie day will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 15 at the Times Theater, 618 Main St., Rochester. Movie, popcorn and drink $5.
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County council meeting will be at 5 p.m. Tuesday, July 15, in the Fulton County Annex Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
—o—
The next free breakfast for veterans will be at 8 a.m. Thursday, July 17 at Life Care Center of Rochester, 827 W. 13th St., Rochester. Call (574) 223-4331 to RSVP. The breakfasts are held every third Thursday of the every month.
—o—
“Rosy the Clown” will hold a clown workshop at 2 p.m. Friday, July 18, at the Fulton Library, 7420 Liberty Ave., Fulton. Attendees will learn how to do their own clown makeup. Sign-up is required prior to the event. For more information call (574) 8934113.
—o—
A kayak fundraising raffle drawing will be held Friday, July
18, at the Fulton County Park board booth, during the Fulton County fair. Tickets are available from any board member.
Contact Sandy Sawyer at (574) 223-2008, Eric Shlarf at (574) 835-4285, Scott Zeyen at (574) 527-5761, Doug Morton at (574) 223-4288, Charlee Schwenk at (574) 835-4890, or Bill Walsh at (574) 835-3601.
—o—
Commissioners meeting will be at 6 p.m. Monday, July 21, at the Fulton County Annex Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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Volunteer work is always welcome and needed in maintaining Indiana State Parks. For more information on volunteering visit on.IN.gov/dnrvolunteer or email DNRvolunteer@dnr.IN.gov.
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Free monthly books for under five years old. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is giving away free books for your chil-
dren. Enroll online, and your first book will come in the mail within two months.
Books will arrive monthly until your child is five years old. Funded in part by a grant from the Fulton County Women’s Giving Circle and the Fulton County Community Foundation. For more information visit the website at imaginationlibrary.com/ check-availability/.
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Families Helping Families, a nonprofit organization, is in need of formula and diapers for the community. If interested in donating or in need of formula and/or diapers, stop by from 2-5 p.m. Mondays, at the Solid Rock Church, 913 Main St., Rochester. For more information, call Michelle Skiles at (574) 835-8813.
—o—
Akron’s Farmers Market is open from 8 a.m to noon, every Saturday, at Town Square Park, Akron.
NEW STORE MANAGER — Mayor Trent Odell recently met with Amanda Keeling at Kroger, Rochester. Keeling is the new manager at the Rochester Kroger store, located in Peace Tree Village. Photo provided by Trent Odell.
Nickel Plate Trail extension opens, connecting Rochester to Kokomo
By LIBBY HUBBARD Staff Writer
City and trail leaders gathered Tuesday for a ribbon cutting marking the completion of the long-anticipated Nickel Plate Trail extension, connecting Rochester’s downtown to the broader 41-mile rail-trail stretching south to Kokomo.
The extension adds direct pedestrian and bike access from Woodlawn Hospital and the Rochester Fire Department on the city’s east side into downtown, completing the northernmost link of the Nickel Plate Trail.
The project, years in the making, integrates Rochester more fully into the statewide network and the larger Great American Rail Trail, a coast-to-coast pathway currently about 50% complete.
“This isn’t just a path,” said Dan McCarthy, a volunteer with the Nickel Plate Trail. “It’s an invitation. It invites travelers from across the country right into Rochester, to our restaurants, shops, and hotels. It (the extension) gives our own residents safe and easy access to the trail right from town.”
McCarthy praised the city’s leadership and the cooperative spirit of nearby residents, noting that the trail remains a fully volunteer-driven, nonprofit initiative.
Rochester Mayor Trent Odell acknowledged the challenges of fitting the trail into an established neighborhood and thanked residents for their flexibility.
“We appreciate their willingness to be a little bit inconvenienced, hopefully for a safer street and a better place for kids to bike and enjoy the outdoors,” Odell said.
The newly completed segment also coincides with upcoming development just west of the trail, a planned apartment complex for residents aged 55 and older.
“What a great thing, to have a trail in your backyard,” Mayor Odell added to conclude his and McCarthy’s speeches.
The ceremonial ribbon was cut, while city leaders expressed optimism about Rochester’s future, noting that the trail’s presence is expected to boost tourism, improve quality of life and fuel continued downtown revitalization in the coming years.
MCCARTHY — Nickel Plate Trail volunteer Dan McCarthy speaks during the ribbon cutting ceremony, highlighting the extension’s benefits for residents and visitors alike.
BUTCHER — Debbie Butcher rides along the newly paved section of the Nickel Plate Trail Extension following the ribbon cutting ceremony.
CUT — Representatives from the Fulton County Chamber of Commerce, Rochester city officials, and contributing contractors gather for the official ribbon cutting of the Nickel Plate Trail extension.
MAYOR — Rochester Mayor Trent Odell, left, stands with trail volunteer Dan McCarthy while addressing attendees at the Nickel Plate Trail extension ribbon cutting.
2025 Fulton County 4 -H Fair
2025 Fulton County 4 -H Fair
July 12-19, 2025 Fulton County Fairgrounds; 1009 W. 3rd Street; Rochester, IN 46975 Purdue Extension Office: 574-223-3397
July 12-19, 2025
SATURDAY, JULY 12
4-H Fair Daily Events
4-H Fair Daily Events INFLATABLES
MONDAY-FRIDAY, Midway 5-9pm WHEEL OF AGRICULTURE GAME SHOW
25 Fulton County 4 -H
WEDNESDAY,
WEDNESDAY, JULY 1 6
8:00 a.m. Dog Obedience & Showmanship, Hudkins Arena
8:00 a.m. Dog Obedience & Showmanship, Hudkins Arena
7:00-10:00 a.m. HOMEMAKER’S GRAB -N-GO BREAKFAST Serving from the Model Railroad Building
MONDAY-FRIDAY, Midway 5-9pm WHEEL OF AGRICULTURE GAME SHOW
MON-WED, 2 SHOWS EACH NIGHT STOCK THE TRAILER
9- 11:30 a.m. Open Class Check - in & Judging, Community Building
MONDAY-THURSDAY, 4-7 PM
9-11:30 a.m. Open Class Check-in & Judging, Community Building
9 a.m. Mini 4- H building projects - Community Bldg.
Everett Smith parking lot
MON-WED, 2 SHOWS EACH NIGHT STOCK THE TRAILER
Bring canned goods to the collection bins each night to help the local food pantries
9:00 a.m. Swine Show (4-H & Mini) Hudkins Arena 4:00 p.m. Horse & Pony Show 4-H Costume Class & Mini 4-H Show 5-9 p.m. Wheel of AG Game show , Midway 2 shows
5:00 p.m. VESPER SERVICE Hudkins Arena PURDUE EXTENSION FREE ICE CREAM following Vespers Pavilion near restrooms
8:30 a.m. Goat Show (4-H & Mini) Goat Barn 1:00 pm Dairy Show (Mini & Reg) – Hudkins Arena
5:00
1 – 6 p.m. Horse & Pony Check -in
6:30 pm Teen/Miss Fulton County , RHS, free admission
1 – 6 p.m. Horse & Pony Check -in
Monday -Friday, 5-9 p.m.
2 – 4 p.m. Goats Check -n
2 – 4 p.m. Goats Check-n
Saturday, July 12th
Model Railroad Building
4 -6 p.m. Rabbit Check -in
7:00pm Autocross Races
Monday-Thursday 4-8 pm
Sunday, July 13th
Sunday, July 6th
5:00 p.m. Vesper Service - Hudkins FREE Ice Cream provided by Purdue Extension following Vespers
4 pm Little/Jr Miss Fulton County
4-6 p.m. Rabbit Check-in
7:00 p.m. 4-H SENIOR RECOGNITION & COMMUNITY BUILDING AWARDS CEREMONY Hudkins Arena FREE PARKING SPONSORED BY: RUNNINGS
4:00 pm Cornhole tournament –Parking lot by Everett Smith Bldg.
MONDAY, JULY 14
4:00 pm Cornhole tournament –Parking lot by Everett Smith Bldg.
5:00 p.m. VESPER SERVICE Hudkins Arena
8:30 a.m. Horse & Pony Showmanship & Halter Classes followed by Trail Class
5 :00 p.m. VESPER SERVICE Hudkins Arena PURDUE EXTENSION FREE ICE CREAM following Vespers Pavilion near restrooms
7 p.m. Honors Night – Hudkins Arena
6:30 pm Teen/Miss Fulton County , RHS, free admission
Monday, July 14th
5:30pm-9pm Sweetcakes Entertainment
5:30 pm Kiddy Pedal Pull
Saturday, July 12th
9:00 a.m. Poultry Show (4-H & Mini) Poultry/Rabbit Barn
PURDUE EXTENSION FREE ICE CREAM following Vespers Pavilion near restrooms
12:30 p.m. Sheep Show (4-H & Mini) Hudkins Arena
7:00 p.m. 4-H SENIOR RECOGNITION & COMMUNITY BUILDING AWARDS CEREMONY Hudkins Arena
5:30-9 p.m. Sweetcakes Entertainment Caricature, Balloon, & Face Painting Everett Smith Building
7:00 p.m. 4 -H SENIOR RECOGNITION & COMMUNITY BUILDING AWARDS CEREMONY Hudkins Arena FREE PARKING SPONSORED BY: RUNNINGS
FREE PARKING SPONSORED BY: RUNNINGS
5:30 p.m. KIDDY PEDAL PULL registration
performing in the FREE TENT Classic Rock, Rowdy Country & British Invasion
7:00pm Autocross Races
7-9 pm Almost There, free tent
West Side of Everett Smith Building. Pedal Pull begins at 6 pm
MONDAY, JULY 14
MONDAY, JULY 14
FRIDAY, JULY 18
Sunday, July 13th
Tuesday, July 15th
5:30pm-9pm Sweetcakes Entertainment
7 pm Tractor Pull - Amphitheater
Wednesday, July 16th
5:00 p.m. Vesper Service - Hudkins FREE Ice Cream provided by Purdue Extension following Vespers
5-9 p.m. Wheel of Agriculture Game Show Midway, 2 shows
7:00 p.m. FARMER OLYMPICS Amphitheater$40 team of 4 for all events , $5 admission
8:30 a.m. Horse & Pony Showmanship & Halter Classes followed by Trail Class
7 pm Lawn Mower Races – Amphitheater
8:30 a.m. Horse & Pony Showmanship & Halter Classes followed by Trail Class
6:30 p.m. Horse & Pony Equitation Classes
9:00 a.m. Poultry Show (4-H & Mini) Poultry/Rabbit Barn
9:00 a.m. Poultry Show (4- H & Mini) Poultry/Rabbit Barn
7 p.m. Honors Night – Hudkins Arena
6-8 pm Mike Almond, free tent
Sponsored by Fulton County Farm Bureau Contact: Kevin Burton 574 -721-9495 Kyle Clauson 574 -835-1255
12:30 p.m. Sheep Show (4- H & Mini) Hudkins Arena
Monday, July 14th
Thursday, July 17th
7 pm Farmer Olympics – Amphitheater
7pm Counter Point, free tent
5:30pm-9pm Sweetcakes Entertainment
12:30 p.m. Sheep Show (4-H & Mini) Hudkins Arena
7-9 p.m. ALMOST THERE performing in the FREE TENT FREE PARKING SPONSORED BY: RTC FIBER COMMUNICATIONS
10:00 p.m. Release Horse & Pony and all Non-sale Livestock
5:30- 9 p.m. Sweetcakes Entertainment Caricature, Balloon, & Face Painting Everett Smith Building
5:30-9 p.m. Sweetcakes Entertainment Caricature, Balloon, & Face Painting Everett Smith Building
TUESDAY, JULY 15
5:30 pm Kiddy Pedal Pull
5:30 & 7:00 pm Silly Safari - Smith Bldg
7-9 pm Almost There, free tent
Friday, July 18th
5 pm Livestock Auction
Tuesday, July 15th
7-10 a.m. HOMEMAKER’S GRAB -N-GO BREAKFAST Serving from the Model Railroad Building
8:30 a.m. Rabbit Show (4-H & Mini) Rabbit Barn
FREE PARKING SPONSORED BY: ZANE’S LP
5:30 p.m. KIDDY PEDAL PULL registration West Side of Everett Smith Building. Pedal Pull begins at 6 pm
5:30pm-9pm Sweetcakes Entertainment
7 pm Champion Spotlight Sale Hudkins Arena
7 pm Tractor Pull - Amphitheater
7 pm Garden Tractor Pull - Amphitheater
5:30 p.m. KIDDY PEDAL PULL registration West Side of Everett Smith Building. Pedal Pull begins at 6 pm
10:00 a.m. Horse & Pony – Extreme Challenge
1:00 p.m. Beef Show (4-H & Mini) Hudkins Arena
4:00 p.m. Horse & Pony Western Classes
SATURDAY, JULY 19
5-9 p.m. Wheel of Agriculture Game Show Midway, 2 shows
5- 9 p.m. Wheel of Agriculture Game Show Midway, 2 shows
Saturday, July 19th
Wednesday, July 16th
5:30-9 p.m. Sweetcakes Entertainment Caricature, Balloon, & Face Painting - Everett Smith Building
6:30 p.m. Horse & Pony Equitation Classes
6:30 p.m. Horse & Pony Equitation Classes
5-9 p.m. Wheel of AG game show – Midway, 2 Shows
6:00 pm 4 -H Cat show – Community Building
7 pm Lawn Mower Races – Amphitheater
6 pm Swine Carcass Show Hudkins Arena
7 pm Demolition Derby - Amphitheater
6-8 pm Mike Almond, free tent
Thursday, July 17th
6:00
7- 9 p.m. ALMOST THERE performing in the FREE TENT FREE PARKING SPONSORED BY: RTC FIBER COMMUNICATIONS
7-9 p.m. ALMOST THERE performing in the FREE TENT FREE PARKING SPONSORED BY: RTC FIBER COMMUNICATIONS
7 pm Farmer Olympics – Amphitheater
THURSDAY, JULY 10
7pm Counter Point, free tent
5:30 & 7:00 pm Silly Safari - Smith Bldg
7:00 p.m. TRACTOR PULL Amphitheater Sponsored by Gohn Ag $10 or free admission with PIONEER SEED apparel To participate, contact: Spud Armstrong 574-835-6029 David Overmyer 574 -737-1209 FREE PARKING SPONSORED
TUESDAY, JULY 15
7-10 a.m. HOMEMAKER’S GRAB -N-GO BREAKFAST Serving from the Model Railroad Building
PARKING WITH DONATION OF CANNED GOODS SPONSORED BY: FULTON COUNTY 4-H JUNIOR LEADERS
7 -10 a.m. HOMEMAKER’S GRAB -N-GO BREAKFAST Serving from the Model Railroad Building
Friday, July 18th
5 pm Livestock Auction
8:30 a.m. Rabbit Show (4-H & Mini) Rabbit Barn
8:30 a.m. Rabbit Show (4 -H & Mini) Rabbit Barn
10:00 a.m. Horse & Pony – Extreme Challenge
10:00 a.m. Horse & Pony – Extreme Challenge
7 pm Champion Spotlight Sale Hudkins Arena
1:00 p.m. Beef Show (4-H & Mini) Hudkins Arena
9:00-11:00
1:00 p.m. Beef Show (4 -H & Mini) Hudkins Arena
4:00 p.m. Horse & Pony Western Classes
4:00 p.m. Horse & Pony Western Classes
7 pm Garden Tractor Pull - Amphitheater
Saturday, July 19th
5:30-9 p.m. Sweetcakes Entertainment Caricature, Balloon, & Face Painting - Everett Smith Building
5 :30 -9 p.m. Sweetcakes Entertainment Caricature, Balloon, & Face Painting - Everett Smith Building
6 pm Swine Carcass Show Hudkins Arena
5-9 p.m. Wheel of AG game show – Midway, 2 Shows
5 -9 p.m. Wheel of AG game show – Midway, 2 Shows
6:00 pm 4 -H Cat show – Community Building
6:00 pm 4 -H Cat show – Community Building
7:00 p.m. TRACTOR PULL Amphitheater
7:00 p.m. TRACTOR PULL Amphitheater
Sponsored by Gohn Ag $10 or free admission with PIONEER SEED apparel
Sponsored by Gohn Ag $10 or free admission with PIONEER SEED apparel
To participate, contact:
Spud Armstrong 574 -835 -6029 David Overmyer 574 -737-1209
To participate, contact: Spud Armstrong 574-835-6029 David Overmyer 574 -737-1209
FREE PARKING SPONSORED BY: 1ST SOURCE BANK
Miss
Fulton County 4-H Fair July 12-19
Fulton County Queen pageant July 6
The crowning of the Little Miss, Teen Miss, Junior Miss and Miss Fulton County will take place Sunday, July 6, in the Rochester High School Auditorium. Doors open at 3:30 p.m. with the pageant starting at 4 p.m.
There are 3 young ladies, between the ages of 1719, vying for the title of Miss Fulton County Queen. The Teen Miss competition, for those between the ages of 1316, will have 13 vying for the title. There will be three girls between the ages of 10-13 vying for the Junior Miss title, and nine girls between the ages of 6-9 vying for the title of Little Miss.
Contestants for the Miss Fulton County title are:
Jessica Taylor, 18, daughter of Nick and Jamie Taylor, is a recent graduate of Caston Jr./Sr. High School. She plans on attending Valparaiso University. Her future plans are to become a radio announcer/disc jockey.
Shelby Cahill, 17, daughter of Terry and Trudy Cahill, will be a senior at Manchester Jr./Sr. High School. She is interested in furthering her education and majoring in Zoology.
Kallie Watson, 20, daughter of Jon and Kathy Watson, is an upcoming junior at Purdue University. Her future plans are to have a career in designing educational buildings, homeless shelters or assisted living homes.
Miss Teen contestants are Ava Russell, Jayden Yarian, Isbella Jones, Ellie Straeter, Sophia Baker, Nevaeh Shull, Gretchen Gardner, Abbigail Artist, Avarie Montel, Samantha Jacobs, Alexis Springer, Emmie Lowe
and Ainsley Horvath.
Junior Miss contestants are Rhemi Thompson, Ella Rose and Kree Clauson.
Little Miss contestants are Sawyer Jones, Ali Utter, Jayne White, Elena Artist, Maelee Jones, Brynlee Baker, Ellie Emery, Blakely Hass and Brooklyn Ridenour.
Fulton County 4-H Jr. Leader Ambassadors announced
The Fulton County 4-H Junior Leaders have elected Sydney Bauman and James Gardner as this year’s Junior Leader Ambassadors.
Bauman is the daughter of Brian and Bethany Bauman. She will be a junior at Rochester High School. She is an 8-year member of the Newcastle Nifties 4-H Club.
Gardner is the son of Andy and Samantha Gardner. He is a 2025 graduate of Rochester High School. He is a 10-year member of the Richland Clodhoppers Never Give Up 4-H Club.
It is an honor to be elected into these positions. Ambassadors are active in Junior Leader projects by helping with camps, auctions, etc.
JESSICA TAYLOR
KALLIE WATSON
SHELBY CAHILL
JAMES GARDNER
SYDNEY BAUMAN
Fulton County 4-H’ers reach 10-year mark
The following 4-H’ers have been active in 4-H for 10 years:
Aaron Backus, son of Scott and Kim Backus, is a member of the Henry Hardy Farmers 4-H Club.
His favorite 4-H project is sport fishing. His favorite 4-H memory is showing sheep at the state fair.
“I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to learn new things,” states Backus.
Emma Bays, daughter of Tara Koebcke and Josh Bays, is a member of the Horse and Pony Club.
“4-H has allowed me to grow and enjoy showing more and more, it also has allowed me to make new friends and learn many different things,” stated Bays.
Her favorite 4-H project is arts and crafts. Her favorite 4-H memory is the water fights held every year during the fair.
Audrey Bolinger, daughter of Rebecca and Aaron Bolinger, is a member of the Burton Busy Bees 4-H Club.
“4-H has enabled me to be creative and think in new and unique ways in order to get the perfect angle or pictures for my projects. It has also allowed me to interact and get to know numerous individuals in my community throughout the years and during fair week,” states Bolinger.
Her favorite 4-H projects include: Lego Airplane (reserve grand champion) and all of her photos, which enabled her to capture different elements for photography. Her favorite 4-H memory was watching and participating in pig wrestling each year during Farmers Olympics.
Bailey Bussard, daughter of David and Brandi Bussard, is a member of the Henry Hardy Farmers 4-H Club.
Her favorite 4-H projects are sheep and dogs. Her favorite 4-H memory is winning grand champion with her dog, Zoe.
“I have learned a lot, such as life skills, social skills
and I have found out a lot about myself through 4-H. 4-H has also helped me make lifetime friends and I can always go to anyone in Fulton County if I ever need help,” states Bussard.
MadiLynn Coble, daughter of Kristin Marchlik and Casey Coble, is a member of the Horse and Pony Club.
Her favorite 4-H project was performing the school fight song with her color guard flag for demonstrations. Her favorite 4-H memory is having a water fight two years ago, in the morning, on one of the 4-H days, with most of the kids.
When asked what 4-H means to her, she stated “being able to spend time with friends and make a connection with my animals.”
Nora Foxworth, daughter of Nathan and Nichole Foxworth, is a member of the Henry Hardy Farmers 4-H Club.
“4-H has taught me to raise livestock from the ground up and take care of them until the end,” states Foxworth. Her favorite 4-H project is showing goats. Her favorite 4-H memory is winning first place with her doe goat.
James Gardner, son of Andrew and Samantha Gardner, is a member of the Richland Clodhoppers Never Give Up 4-H Club.
“4-H has been a place for me to connect and build friendships with other kids with similar interests as myself. It has been a program that balances fun and education,” states Gardner.
His favorite 4-H projects are beef and swine. His favorite memory is making it into the grand drive for beef last year.
Johnathan Jackson Helt, son of Steven and Jean Helt, is a member of the Burton Busy Bees.
His favorite 4-H project is sheep. His favorite 4-H
Continued on page 11
Fulton County 4-H Fair
Fulton County
Continued from page 10
memory is being the first 4-H’er to show a texel sheep at the Fulton County Fair and getting his photo in the paper.
Keith Haney, son of Orville Haney, is a member of the Henry Hardy Farmers 4-H Club. His favorite 4-H projects are goats and rabbits.
His favorite 4-H memory is working in the pork producers stand with his 4-H club.
When asked what 4-H has meant to him, he stated, “I learned skills for life and made incredible friends and I will cherish those memories forever.”
Wesley Lawson, son of Eddie and Allyson Lawson, is a member of the Reiter Busy Workers 4-H Club.
When asked what 4-H has meant to him, he stated, “It has taught me a lot of responsibility and I wouldn’t be who I am today without 4-H.”
His favorite 4-H project is showing pigs. His favorite 4-H memory is wearing masks in 2020.
Michael Leininger, son of Greg and Megihann Leininger, is a member of Henry Hardy Farmers 4-H Club.
“I see accomplishments from the work I put into projects. It’s taught me that hard work pays off. I have also learned that things don’t always work like you want them to, but you don’t just quit,” stated Leininger.
His favorite 4-H project is micro mini tractors and sheep. His favorite 4-H memory is working in the pork producers stand and being a part of the Farmer Olympics.
Kye Murphy, son of Marci Murphy, is a member of the Reiter Busy Workers 4-H Club.
His favorite 4-H projects are swine, corn, beans, electric and sheep. His favorite 4-H memory is going to the state fair, showing his sheep and winning grand champion on his corn.
“Responsibility, strength, knowledge to be a better person. Being able to show animals and learn life skills,” stated Murphy on what he learned from 4-H.
Katie Schouten, daughter of Andrew and Emily Schouten, is a member of the Aubbee Gamblers.
“Have you ever washed a flightless, egg laying bird? I have for nine years. Every year, a new challenge presents itself. Whether that is a bar of soap or towels, I learned to navigate problems. 4-H taught me to use my problem solving skills in situations ranging from homework to flat car tires. I learned life skills from my time in 4-H,” stated Schouten.
Her favorite 4-H projects are floriculture, baked foods and soil and water science.
Her favorite 4-H memory was winning grand champion for her cherry pie.
Max Sommers, son of Nick and Christina Sommers, is a member of the Wayne Wide Awake 4-H Club. His favorite 4-H project is swine.
“4-H has shaped me to be who I am today and taught me a lot of lessons. 4-H has also led me to want to pursue a career in agriculture,” states Sommers.
His favorite 4-H memory is winning master showmanship in sheep and swine in the same year.
Jessica Taylor, daughter of Nicholas and Jamie Taylor, is a member of the Wayne Wide Awake, Fulton County Bullseyes and Junior Leaders 4-H Clubs.
When asked what 4-H has meant to her, she stated, “it has meant learning life skills and helping people around me learn new things as I learn alongside them.”
Her favorite 4-H projects are sports, cake decorating and showing poultry overall.
Her favorite 4-H memories are showing poultry during the fair, seeing the results of her projects, additionally, seeing if they go to the state fair and any activity she
July 12-19
completed in Junior Leaders.
Ava Thomas, daughter of Chad and Cheri Thomas, is a member of the Burton Busy Bees 4-H Club.
“4-H has taught me the value of hard work and community. It has also helped me obtain life skills such as time management, baking and food science and resilience. I am appreciative of all the opportunities it has given me to grow in my creativity and to share my newfound skills,” stated Thomas.
Her favorite 4-H projects are baking macarons, golf ball collection, getting to display her artwork that included a painting of her dad’s Cubs jersey and old baseball mitt, a portrait of her brother and a copper tooling hummingbird she made for her granny.
Her favorite 4-H memories include winning pole bending in Horse and Pony, winning grand champion and going to the state fair and doing a demonstration with her golf clubs.
Emily Vigar, daughter of Steve and Tammy Vigar, is a member of the Wayne Wide Awake, Trophy Finders and Fulton County Jr. Leaders 4-H Clubs.
Her favorite 4-H projects are sheep, beef, dairy, goats and scrapbooking.
Her favorite 4-H memory is winning Reserve Champion Border Cheviot and Reserve Champion Border Cheviot at the Indiana State Fair, which allowed her to compete “on the dirt” for the first time.
When asked what 4-H meant to her, she stated, “the only word I could use to describe my past 10 years would be ‘rewarding.’ Showing livestock at county, state and national levels, I never knew the outcome. Getting any handshake at county and state levels is a feeling that I could not describe to anyone. ... Though I haven’t gotten a handshake at a national show, county and state-level handshakes make it worth it. After all the long days, early mornings, late nights, tears and laughs, the handshake reminds me that this is the most rewarding sport.
“However, it goes way beyond winning for me; I’m rewarded with many supporters around me who will do anything to see me succeed. The most rewarding thing was walking into a building and being greeted by younger kids with the same passion and striving I had at their age.
“When I was younger I was always looking up to the older members. I am grateful to have this opportunity to connect with each child on different levels, in hopes that one day, they can be the person who impacts the next generation. I could go on and on about 4-H, the skills it teaches and the lessons you learn, but honestly, the only word I can use to describe my incredible journey is ‘rewarding.’”
MAX SOMMERS
JESSICA TAYLOR
AVA THOMAS EMILY VIGAR
Fulton County 4-H Fair July 12-19
Honoring the seniors of the Fulton County fair
The following are local seniors who are finishing their final 4-H years in Fulton County:
Chloe Conley, daughter of Jeremy and Jasmine Conley, is a member of the Fulton County Bullsyes 4-H Club.
Abbigayle Darling, daughter of Nathen and Megan Darling, is a member of the Burton Busy Bees 4-H Club.
Her favorite 4-H project is sewing (non-wearable). “Every year Junior Leaders do a 4-H camp and I love seeing all the smiles on the kids,” she stated.
When asked what 4-H means to her, she stated, “4-H has meant a lot to me because I’ve been able to make new bonds with kids around my age and get to experience wonderful lessons with all my close friends.”
Her future plan is to attend Indiana University Kokomo, to study elementary education.
Aiden Kimble, son of Terry and Sarah Kimble, is a member of Burtons Busy Bees 4-H Club. His favorite 4-H projects are pigs, rabbits and poultry.
His favorite memory is hanging out with his family and doing the
pig wrestling with his friends.
When asked what 4-H means to him, he stated, “It has helped me learn new skills and has helped me grow in life in many ways. He would like to work on a farm in the future.
Ashley McCall, daughter of
Matt and Jody McCall, is a member of the Cat’s Meow 4-H Club.
Her favorite 4-H project is photography. He favorite 4-H memory was getting to know others who were also in photography and seeing what they also created. When asked what 4-H meant to
her, she stated, “ 4-H has meant a lot to me. It has taught me how to be creative and figure out different skills. It has also allowed me to learn more about others and what their interests are.
Her future plan is to attend cosmetology school.
Auto Cross returns to the fair
By LIBBY HUBBARD Staff Writer
The Fulton County Fairgrounds will host an Auto Cross competition at 7 p.m. Saturday, July 12, offer-
AUTO CROSS
CLASSES: Front Wheel Drive, Rear Wheel Drive, 4 Wheel Drive
VEHICLE ENTRY: $30 (includes 1 pit pass for passenger).
Vehicles must pass inspection before they run.
Rules:
1. All drivers & passengers must have a helmet & a seat belt.
2. Cars are to be clean inside and no loose debris.
3. No pointy style derby bumpers allowed, stock bumpers preferred but if you build a bumper please keep the ends smooth & do not make a door cutter.
4. All headlights, taillights & chrome trim are to be removed.
5. Glass windshields are okay. All other glass is to be removed or if it will roll down, that is also acceptable.
6. Door bar or plates are highly recommended.
7. No roof signs or writing on the roofs of the cars. We will put a number on the roof when you get there for scoring purposes.
8. All wheel weights must be removed & no studded snow tires.
9. Age requirement for adult class is 16 and up. If they are under 18 we will need a parent to sign the consent form.
10. Driveshaft/CV shaft has to be out to run a 4-wheel drive in the rear-wheeldrive class.
ing a night of high-octane action and cash payouts for participating drivers.
General admission is $10, and pit passes are available for $20.
Vehicle entry is $30 and includes one pit pass for a passenger.
Classes include front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive and fourwheel drive.
All vehicles must pass inspection before competing, and both drivers and passengers are required to wear helmets and seatbelts.
Additional safety and equipment rules apply, including removal of headlights, taillights, chrome trim and loose interior debris. Door bars or plates are highly recommended
for added safety. Pointed-style demolition derby bumpers are not allowed. Vehicles must have smooth bumper ends, and stock bumpers are preferred.
All cars must be free of roof signs or writing; event staff will assign numbers upon arrival for scoring. Participants in the adult class must be at least 16 years old. Drivers under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign a consent form.
Four-wheel-drive vehicles running in the rear-wheel-drive class must have the driveshaft or CV shaft removed.
The event is open to the public and promises an evening of crowd-pleasing motorsport thrills.
ABBIGAYLE DARLING AIDEN KIMBLE ASHLEY MCCALL
CHLOE CONLEY
The Kayak for the “Friends” raffle is being donated by Runnings. Pictured are Scott Zeyen, Charlee Schwenk, Runnings Manager Miraenda Widman, Sandy Sawyer, Runnings Assistant Manager Shannon White and Eric Schlarf.
Fulton County 4-H
Fair July 12-19
Fulton
By LIBBY HUBBARD Staff Writer
County 4-H Fair kicks off
The 2025 Fulton County 4-H Fair runs July 12-19 at the Fulton County Fairgrounds, offering a wide range of activities, competitions and entertainment for attendees of all ages.
The fair opens Saturday, July 12, with dog obedience and showmanship events at 8 a.m. in the Hudkins Arena, followed by Open Class exhibit check-in and judging in the Community Building from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Mini 4-H building projects will also be judged in the Community Building starting at 9 a.m., alongside garden and floriculture judging and aquatic science project checkin and judging. Swine check-in begins at 7 p.m., capped by the Autocross Races at the Amphitheater with a $10 admission fee.
Sunday’s schedule includes livestock check-ins for beef, feeder calf, dairy steers, dairy females, poultry, sheep, goats, and rabbits throughout the day. Highlights include a cornhole tournament at 4 p.m. near the Everett Smith Building, a 5 p.m. vesper service in the Hudkins Arena followed by free ice cream provided by Purdue Extension, and a 7 p.m. 4-H Senior Recognition and Community Building Awards Ceremony.
Monday, July 14, features horse and pony showmanship, halter, and trail classes beginning at 8:30 a.m., with a poultry show at
9 a.m. and a sheep show at 12:30 p.m. Sweetcakes Entertainment offers caricature, balloons and face painting from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. The popular Kiddy Pedal Pull registration is at 5:30 p.m., with the pedal pull starting at 6 p.m. The Wheel of Agriculture game show runs from 5-9 p.m. on the midway, and live music by Almost There plays from 7-9 p.m. in the free tent.
Tuesday, July 15’s events include a Homemaker’s Grab-N-Go Breakfast from 7-10 a.m., rabbit shows, horse and pony extreme challenges, and beef shows throughout the day. Horse and pony western classes take place at 4 p.m., while entertainment continues with Sweetcakes and the Wheel of Agriculture game show. The 4-H cat show occurs at 6 p.m., and the tractor pull, sponsored by Gohn Ag, begins at 7 p.m. Admission to the tractor pull is $10, or free with Pioneer Seed apparel.
Wednesday, July 16 begins with another Homemaker’s Grab-N-Go Breakfast, followed by the swine show at 9 a.m. Horse and pony shows, including 4-H costume and Mini 4-H shows, occur at 4 p.m. The Wheel of Agriculture game show continues on the midway from 5-9 p.m., capped by the Lawn Mower Races at 7 p.m. in the Amphitheater with a $5 admission. Mike Almond performs live in the free tent from 6-8 p.m.
with a packed schedule of events
Thursday, July 17’s highlights include a goat show at 8:30 a.m., dairy shows at 1 p.m., and multiple horse and pony events, including grand entry, awards, and fun Continued on page 14
Tuesday
Parking Spons�s:
Saturday July 12: FREE - sponsored by RUNNINGS
July 13: FREE - sponsored by RUNNINGS
Fulton County 4-H Fair Week
July 14: FREE - sponsored by RTC FIBER COMMUNICATIONS
Fulton County Junior Leaders Stock the Trailer food dr ive Suppor ting sponsor: SMITH FAMILY FARM
*Accepting food donations throughout fair week in parking lot
MONDAY-FRIDAY, JULY 14-18
BREAKFAST: 7:00 AM TO 10:00 AM M-T
LUNCH: 10:30 AM TO 2:00 PM M-T
DINNER: 4:30 PM TO 9:00 PM M-F
Serving a variety of LOG HOUSE RESTAURANT items throughout the day along with the daily lunch and dinner meal specials.
FULTON COUNTY 4-H FAIR OPTIMIST FOOD BOOTH
Food Will Be Prepared And Managed By The Log House Owners, Pat And Robin Burkett And Served By The Rochester Optimists And Rochester Girls Volleyball Team
SATURDAY, JULY 19 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Bring Your Family To The Fair For Dinner Or Pick Up And Take Home
HOMESTYLE NIGHTLY DINNER SPECIALS
Hinderlider builds 4-H experience through projects, passion for ‘Star Wars’
Text and Photos By LIBBY HUBBARD Staff Writer
At just 12 years old, Kent Hinderlider is already a seasoned 4-H’er with a wide variety of projects and a clear understanding of what matters most in the program: the experience.
Hinderlider, a 4-H’er only showcasing projects at the Fulton County 4-H Fair, began his journey in Mini 4-H around first grade.
Now heading into seventh grade this fall, he’s continued growing his list of projects, including Lego construction, farm scene, aerospace, pigs and dog obedience.
“I think it’s important to learn that the ribbons don’t
matter,” Hinderlider said. “The only thing that matters is the experience you had when you do it. Even if you get a red ribbon, you still tried.”
Inspired not by his mom, formerly a local science teacher, but by his older sister, Hinderlider carved his niche in 4-H. He’s particularly drawn to building imaginative Lego scenes that stand out from the usual cityscapes.
“This year, I did a Star Wars battleship,” he said, proudly listing his favorite characters and memorabilia. “I just want to create something different. Not a lot of people do farm or Star Wars scenes.”
Hinderlider also entered a farm scene modeled after the Roman Colosseum, with hopes it may advance to the Indiana
State Fair.
Outside of project work, he enjoys competing in toy tractor pulls, where creativity and mechanical thinking come together.
“You gotta find a tractor that suits you, then modify it, add gears, put wheels on it,” he explained. “You just take a toy tractor and transform it into a pulling tractor.”
For others thinking about joining 4-H, Hinderlider has simple advice: “Roll with it. Do what you want. There are enough projects for everybody.”
Those interested in enrolling for the 2026 Fulton County Fair
can find information and guidelines at the official entry website: fultoncounty.fairentry.com/Fair/SignIn/21963.
Fulton County 4-H
Continued from page 13
shows at 5 p.m. The evening offers Ladies Night at the fair from 5-7 p.m. in the Community Building, cookie judging at 5 p.m., the Fulton County Choral Club at 6 p.m., and the Silly Safari live animal conservation education shows at 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. in the Everett Smith Building. Classic rock and country band Counter Point performs in the free tent from 7-9 p.m. The Farmer Olympics run at 7 p.m. in the Amphitheater with a $5 admission per team of four. Friday, July 18 features the Aerospace and Bottle Rocket
Launch at 10 a.m., the livestock auction at 5 p.m., the Grand Champion Spotlight Sale at 7 p.m., and the Garden Tractor Pull at the Amphitheater with free admission. Free parking is available with canned goods donations, sponsored by the Fulton County 4-H Junior Leaders.
The final day, Saturday, July 19, includes the release of 4-H and Open Class exhibits from 9-11 a.m., the 4-H Tractor, Lawn & Garden, and Zero Turn Contest at 10 a.m., and the Swine Carcass Show at 6 p.m. The Demolition Derby closes out the fair at 7 p.m. with a $10 admission fee.
Throughout the fair, recurring activities include inflatables on the midway from 5-9 p.m. Monday through Friday; the Wheel of
Agriculture game show with two nightly shows Monday through Wednesday; and food drives at the Everett Smith parking lot from 4-7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, supporting local food pantries, sponsored by Smith Family Farms.
The fair offers free parking daily, sponsored by various local businesses, including Zane’s LP, Runnings, First Source Bank and others.
With a full schedule of agricultural competitions, entertainment, auctions and family-friendly activities, the Fulton County 4-H Fair remains a highlight of the summer calendar for the community.
For more information, contact the Fulton County Purdue Extension Office at (574) 223-3397
KENT — Kenneth “Kent” Hinderlider poses with his Micro Mini-Tractor during fair judging.
TRACTOR — Kent Hinderlider competes in the Micro Mini-Tractor Pulling contest at the Fulton County 4-H Fair.
‘Wheels of Ag’ brings fast-paced farming fun to Fulton County Fair
By LIBBY HUBBARD Staff Writer
Agriculture met entertainment at the Fulton County Fair as the “Wheels of Agriculture” game show returned for its third consecutive year, drawing laughs, prizes and hands-on audience engagement through farm-focused trivia.
Created by performer Tim Balster in 2017 as a pre-show for the Kidbucks Game Show, the ag-themed production became a standalone act in 2019 after strong audience demand.
Balster, a former magician turned interactive game show host, designed the experience to combine learning with high-energy fun.
The TV-style show features three separate trivia rounds — one each for young kids, older kids and adults — with finalists advancing to a game of chance to determine the overall champion Contestants spin a tractor wheel to land on question categories,
which cover topics including agriculture, food, farming, music and sound.
With 100% audience participation, the game encourages everyone to get involved — as contestants, wheel spinners or even “lifelines” when someone onstage is stumped.
“Agriculture touches everyone, yet only about 1% of the population are farmers,” said Balster. “Wheels of Ag creates fun moments and lasting memories while helping people appreciate the agricultural industry.”
The show tours nationally with a two-person team, traveling from the Rocky Mountains to the East Coast. Indiana appearances have included the Marshall County Blueberry Festival and fairs in St. Joseph, LaPorte, LaGrange and now Fulton counties.
After wrapping up in Fulton County, the show heads next to the Porter County Fair in Valparaiso.
For more information or booking, visit fairshows.biz or email tim@balstermagic.com.
Fulton County 4-H Fair offers wide variety of open class projects for public exhibition
By LIBBY HUBBARD Staff Writer
The Fulton County 4-H Fair invites residents and Extension Homemakers to enter a broad range of open class projects during the fair, held July 12-19.
Open to all county residents and members of Fulton County Extension Homemaker clubs, the exhibit categories cover home arts, family crafts, baking, gardening, photography and more.
Exhibitors can enter baked goods, candy, food preservation, flowers, quilting, needle arts and general arts and crafts, with special children’s divisions available for youth age eight and under.
Projects must be original works created within the past two years, with food preservation entries from the past year.
Baked goods categories include breads, cookies, pies and cakes, all requiring proper presentation and recipe submission. Food preservation projects feature canned meats, vegetables, fruits, pickled items, jellies, jams and dehydrated foods, adhering to state safety guidelines.
Floral exhibits range from single-stem flowers to fresh or dried
arrangements and houseplants, while needle arts cover crocheting, knitting, embroidery and other stitching crafts. Quilting entries focus on hand or machine quilting rather than pieced but un-quilted items.
Arts and crafts categories encompass wearable art, scrap-booking, painting, folk art, recycled “trash to treasure” projects, and adult coloring pages.
Exhibitors must check in entries between 9-11:30 a.m. Saturday, July 12, and retrieve exhibits between 9-11 a.m. Saturday, July 19.
Judging ribbons will be awarded at the discretion of judges, including grand champions in each division.
Entries cannot have been previously shown at the Fulton County Fair and must follow all rules, including restrictions on labeling and sportsmanship.
For questions or entry information, residents may contact Ellen King, Open Class Chair, at (574) 835-0227 or Jessica Riffle, Extension Educator, at (574) 223-3397.
Open class exhibits provide an opportunity for community members to showcase talents and join in the fair tradition alongside 4-H youth participants.
SPONSORS — Locally owned businesses, Creighton Brothers and Burton Family Farms, sponsored the 2024 Wheels of Agriculture game show as part of their continued commitment to the Fulton County Fair. Photo by the Fulton County fair board.
TRAILER — The Wheels of Agriculture game show trailer sits on display at the Fulton County 4-H Fairgrounds during its 2024 appearance. Photo by the Fulton County fair board.
Friends of Fulton County Parks to hold kayak raffle at 4-H Fair
By LIBBY HUBBARD Staff Writer
Fulton County 4-H offers wide range of projects for youth participants
By LIBBY HUBBARD Staff Writer
Each year, the Fulton County 4-H Fair showcases a diverse lineup of youth projects, allowing local members in grades 3 through 12, and even younger children in Mini 4-H, to explore hands-on learning, leadership and skill development.
With a $15 enrollment fee per 4-H member (up to a maximum of three enrollees), participants can select from dozens of non-animal and animal-based projects.
horses and llamas. All animal projects are subject to additional health, safety and exhibition guidelines.
Youth can also enter academic-based categories like genealogy, geology, health, forestry and weather science, or creative subjects such as fine arts, fashion review, woodworking and scrapbooking.
Tickets for the raffle are $5 each and are limited to 300 tickets sold. The drawing will take place on July 18 at the Fulton County 4-H Fair.
The Friends of the Fulton County Parks and Recreation Department, Inc. will hold their 2025 Kayak Fundraising Raffle drawing Friday, July 18, at the Fulton County Park Board booth during the Fulton County 4-H Fair.
Tickets can be purchased from Friends board members or at the Park Board booth throughout the fair. Participants do not need to be present to win.
The kayak being raffled has been donated by Runnings, with proceeds from the raffle supporting the Fulton County Parks and Recreation Department.
These include traditional programs like aerospace, electric, photography, sewing and foods, along with newer or specialized areas such as zero-turn mower safety, micro mini-tractor pulling, cupcake decorating and scarecrow building.
Members interested in agriculture and animal science may compete in educational and exhibition projects involving beef, dairy, goats, rabbits, swine, poultry, dogs,
Students in kindergarten through second grade can enroll in Mini 4-H, where project options include age-appropriate categories like Mini 4-H arts and crafts, farm animals (poster), horse and pony, foods, electric and wildlife. Projects are judged in advance of or during the Fulton County 4-H Fair and may be eligible for advancement to the Indiana State Fair, depending on division guidelines.
For a full list of project areas or to learn more about enrollment for future fairs, visit fultoncounty. fairentry.com.
StoryWalk ribbon cutting celebrates community literacy at Pike Park
Text and Photos
By LIBBY HUBBARD Staff Writer
After more than a year of planning and fundraising, the Akron Carnegie Public Library unveiled its permanent StoryWalk at Pike Memorial Park on Monday, June 30, with a celebratory ribbon cutting and a crowd of supporters gathered under warm, breezy skies.
“This project has really been six years in the making,” said Julie Canada, the library’s administrative assistant and program director, during her remarks to the crowd. “It all started with a few temporary signs and a little book called ‘The Ninjabread Man’ during the summer of 2020. We had no idea that one simple idea (born out of pandemic necessity) would grow into something this meaningful.”
The new installation features 25 metal-framed, ADA-accessible display boards set along a walking path at Pike Park.
Each board showcases a section of a picture book, allowing families to read a full story together outdoors, rotating monthly.
“We’re so excited to have a permanent StoryWalk that can be accessed all year long,” said Library Director Janet Hawley. “In the past, our staff would install and remove temporary boards every week for the Summer Reading Program. This new setup is weatherproof, permanent, and allows us to focus on what matters, our readers.” Canada became emotional as she
EMOTIONAL SPEECH Library Administrative Assistant and Program Director Julie Canada gives an emotional speech on the impact of the StoryWalk program.
recalled the community’s reaction to those early StoryWalk efforts.
“We got so many compliments that first year. Parents, grandparents, teachers; they all told us how special it was,” she said. “From ‘The Brave Little Crab’ to ‘The Crossing’ about Sacajawea, these stories be-
OPENING Pictured are the Akron Carnegie Public Library board of trustees and directors, Akron town street workers, representatives from the Fulton County Community Foundation, and library staff during the StoryWalk ribbon cutting at Pike Memorial Park.
came memories. And now, we get to make those memories all year long.”
The StoryWalk was funded in large part by a $5,000 grant from the Northern Indiana Community Foundation, with additional support from the library’s Rainy Day and Operating Funds.
Installation was handled by the Town of Akron Street Department and volunteers.
“Without the support of the Fulton County Community Foundation and the town, this wouldn’t
have been possible,” said Hawley.
“It’s a real testament to what small communities can do when we work together.”
The first book installed is “Touch the Sky” by Stephanie V.W. Lucianovic.
Before the ribbon cutting, library staff handed out reading bracelets and invited children to line up for the first official stroll down the StoryWalk path.
Lucianovic, as part of the new StoryWalk at Pike Memorial Park.
The StoryWalk is now open daily during park hours.
Families are encouraged to visit often, as a new book will be installed every 30 days.
“This is about investing in our children’s literacy adventure,” Canada said. “And it’s about modeling a healthy lifestyle — reading, walking, enjoying nature and doing it together as a family.”
RAFFLE — Pictured with the donated kayak for the Friends of Fulton County Parks and Recreation Department’s 2025 Kayak Raffle are, from left, Scott Zeyen, Charlee Schwenk, Runnings Manager Miranda Widman, Sandy Sawyer, Runnings Assistant Manager Shannon White and Eric Schlarf. Photo provided by the Fulton County Fair Board.
OFFICIAL
STORYWALK DISPLAY
The first display on the 25-paneled walk-around trail features the book Touch the Sky by Stephanie V.W.
Exercising in the heat: stay safe and beat the heat
Editor’s Note: Amy is a Physical Therapist at Woodlawn Hospital. If you would like to schedule an appointment with her or one of her colleagues call (574) 224-1160.
By AMY RUPLEY, PT, DPT, ATC/L Woodlawn Health
As the sunny days of early summer begin, many fitness enthusiasts are eager to take their workouts outdoors. However, with the increasing temperatures, it is crucial to exercise caution and prioritize safety to avoid heat-related illnesses. Whether you’re running, cycling or engaging in any physical activity, here are some essential
tips to exercise safely in the heat.
• Time it right: Plan your workout during the cooler hours of the day. Early mornings or evenings are ideal for exercising in the summer when the sun is less intense. Avoid the peak hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the heat is at its highest.
• Stay hydrated: Hydration is the key to staying safe in the heat. Drink plenty of water before, during and after your workout to replenish the fluids your body loses through sweat. Also, select water or sports drinks that contain electrolytes to restore minerals lost during prolonged physical activity.
• Dress appropriately: Choose lightweight, breathable and
Local residents attend PSI IOTA XI
Local residents, Linda Screeton, Traci Leininger, Michelle Million and Lori Schoen attended the Psi lota Xi National Convention in Indianapolis, June 27-29. The theme for the convention was “Share the Past, Experience our Future.” They celebrated the accomplishments of this charitable organization led by Mickie Hansen, Greenfield, National President.
Psi Iota Xi meets annually to vote on charitable contributions to be distributed nationally. Psi lota Xi has completed three long-term projects with each resulting in donations over $100,000. The previous long-term projects include an endowed professorship for cochlear implants at Indiana University School of Medicine/Riley Hospital, Cleft Palate Research
Manchester University celebrates the Class of 2025
Manchester University celebrates students from the area who graduated in the 2024-2025 academic year.
Akron — Melissa Ramirez, Joana Ramirez and Noelia Ruiz-Quintana.
Rochester — Catherine Hughes.
Letter to the editor
Local couple asks name to be clarified
Dear Editor:
The Charles Garrison owing money to Jefferson Capital Sys-
We welcome readers’ letters.
tems is not Charlie Garrison on Admirals Court. Linda Garrison
Our requirements are as follows: Letters must be written to the editor, not the public. They must be signed with full name in ink. Signatures will be printed on all letters. Letters must include an address and phone number, which will be used for verification, but will not be published. Letters may be emailed to dpatterson@ the-papers.com. Again, letters must include an address and phone number. We ask that letters be limited to 400 words. Letters longer than 400 words may be edited for brevity.
Writers may be limited to one published letter per month. Readers with lengthy comments should contact an editor about possible guest columns.
Send letters to: Shopping Guide News, 617 Main St., Rochester, IN 46975.
light-colored clothing that allows your skin to breathe and wicks away moisture. Loose-fitting clothes help air circulate around your body, keeping you cool. Don’t forget to wear a wide-brimmed hat and apply sunscreen with a high SPF to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
• Pace yourself: Take it easy and adjust your workout intensity to the heat. Listen to your body and be mindful of any signs of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness, nausea or excessive sweating. If you experience any symptoms, find a shaded area, rest and cool down.
• Seek shade: Whenever possible, choose shaded areas for your workout. Running or exercising near trees or buildings can pro-
National Convention
at the University of Illinois, Intensive Stuttering Clinics and Research at the University of Toledo, Ohio.
The newest project was adopted in 2020 with the recipient being the Psi lota Xi and Hear Indiana Scholarship. They committed $100,000. Annually, Psi lota Xi donates nearly three-quarters of a $1 million to art, music, literature, and speech and hearing projects. Eta Mu, Rochester, raises funds through cheeseballs, flowers, father/daughter dance and ladies night out projects.
They also contribute to the community through giving scholarships, books to all kindergartners in the county, a speech and hearing clinic, a banner contest and sponsoring cultural events.
The local chapter, Eta Mu, Rochester, won third place awards in active members, contributions to music, fine arts and cultural, speech and hearing projects and a single project. They placed second in contributions to literature/literacy. This was out of 15 Psi lota Xi chapters in the northwest district.
vide relief from direct sunlight.
• Know the warning signs: Signs and symptoms of heat-related illness can include excessive sweating, fatigue, and dizziness. You may also experience muscle cramps, nausea, and headaches as your body struggles to regulate its temperature. In severe cases, heatstroke can occur, characterized by a high body temperature, confusion, rapid heartbeat, and even loss of consciousness.
• Acclimate gradually: If you’re not used to exercising in the heat, give your body time to acclimate. Start with shorter workouts and gradually increase the duration and intensity over time. This allows your body to adjust to higher temperatures more effectively.
• Buddy up: Consider exercising with a friend or in a group. Not only does it make your workout more enjoyable, but it also ensures that you have someone to keep an eye out for each other’s well-being. Look out for signs of distress and support each other in staying safe.
Remember, safety should always be a top priority when exercising in the heat. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your outdoor workouts while minimizing the risks associated with high temperatures. Stay hydrated, listen to your body and take breaks as needed. Together, let’s embrace the summer and stay fit while staying safe.
Manitou Training Center has a full-time opening for a DSP (Direct Support Staff) working with individuals with developmental disabilities. High school diploma/GED/ valid driver’s license required. No experience necessary, training is provided. Apply at 1690 E. Lucas St., Rochester, IN
Past enjoyed participating in the 4th of July parade in Akron, Friday, July 4. The parade, lasting just under an hour, provided patrons
Yakym holds office hours in July
Republican U.S. Rep. Rudy Yakym, representing Indiana’s 2nd Congressional District, has announced the schedule of mobile staff office hours for July throughout the district. Mobile office hours allow Yakym’s staff to assist constituents with questions.
“Mobile office hours are designed to be respectful one-on-one conversations with the congressman’s team, pri-
marily for federal casework assistance. These are not town halls and disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated,” Yakym’s office wrote in the news release.
Fulton County
• 9:30-10:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 22, Akron clerk’s office, 206 W. Rochester St., Akron.
• 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays, Rochester District Office, 709 Main St., Rochester.
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with lots of beautiful floats, classic cars, cute kids and, of course, tractors.
Frank Meredith, club member, pulled the tram through the parade with his International 666.
Randy Runkel, sitting atop his International 856, had help driving the parade route with his grandson.
The parade saw lots of grandpas riding with their grandson or granddaughter. Father and daughter took the wheel of an Allis Chalmer. Special tribute was given to former member Richard Harstine, who passed away this year, from the Parker family.
The club participated in the Kosciusko County Community Fair parade Sunday, July 6. Tractors will be on display during fair week in the Antique
Village at the fairgrounds in Warsaw.
For more information on the Echoes of the Past, visit its website at theechoesofthepast.com or their Facebook page Facebook.com/OldTractors.
Bidding open until 6:15 p.m. Thursday, July 10. Inspections 2-6 p.m. July 7-9 at 500 W. Center St., Bourbon. Bid online at theauctionlotllc.hibid.com.
Online Tractor, Mower And Tools Auction Bidding open until 6 p.m. Sunday, July 13. Inspections 5-7 p.m. Thursday, July 10, located at 6495 W. 650S, Winamac. Bid online at olsonauctions.hibid. com.
Online Real Estate Auction Bidding open until 6:30 p.m. Monday, July 21. Open house 5:30-6 p.m. Tuesday, July 15. Located at 401 Woodland Drive, North Manchester. Brick ranch with two-car attached garage. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
The next “Dine to Donate” will be held from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Thursday, July 10 at Wings Etc., 390 Rochester Crossing Drive, Rochester. It will benefit DAR, Daughters of the American Revolution. Use code D2D0018 at checkout when ordering online at togo.wingsetc. com; or call Lavada Johnson Hayes Regent at (219) 5441066 for more information or to receive a flier to present to cashier upon checkout.
Text and Photos
A YOUNG DRIVER Randy Runkel gets help driving his International 856 from his grandson.
PULLING THE TRAM Frank Meredith pulled the tram through the parade on his International 666.
SPECIAL TRIBUTE A special tribute was given to Richard Harstine, a former Echoes of the Past member, by the Parker Family youth.
Parker prized, named 2025 Miss Akron Fourth of July Queen
By LIBBY HUBBARD Staff Writer
Autumn Parker was crowned the 2025 Miss Akron Fourth of July Queen during Sunday, June 29’s pageant at the Akron Community Center.
Parker, the daughter of Leslie and Liz Bannister of Akron, will begin her senior year at Tippecanoe Valley High School this fall. She has played volleyball for nine years and competes competitively with the Empowered club team in Fort Wayne. After graduation, she plans to pursue criminal justice in college while continuing volleyball.
As Queen, Parker earns a $100 scholarship and will represent
the community during Akron’s Fourth of July parade, set for 11 a.m. Friday.
Joining Parker on the court are first runner-up Avarie Montel, daughter of Ashley Heinzmann and Adam Montel, and second runner-up and Miss Congeniality Shelby Cahill, daughter of Trudy and Terry Cahill. This year’s queen pageant featured seven contestants: Cahill, Montel, Parker, Jayden Yarian, Jasmine Fuller, Karley Hallstrom and Chaney Miller. Megan Meinert, from Tippecanoe Valley School Corporation Health Services, served as emcee.
Judges for the evening included Maribeth Nelson, SHRM-CP
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
VOTE — The winners of the Akron Las Donas Club’s Pennya-Vote Cute Baby Contest were announced on Sunday, June 28.
From left is second place’s Collyn-Grace Borg held by her mother Kaitlyn Borg; third place’s Lakelyn Ringle held by her mother Jordan Ringle; and first place’s Liberty Daulton with her mother Paige Daulton. Photo by Leah Sander.
of the Kosciusko County Human Resources Association; Abigail Kelham, 2019 Marshall County Blueberry Festival Queen; and Carleigh Freeman, a 2008 Warsaw graduate and Edgewood Middle School teacher.
The pageant followed the annual Mister Firecracker and Miss Sparkler contests, which crowned Kaiden Arnett, son of Stephanie Mikel and Daniel Arnett, and Emalee Hobbs, daughter of Krystle and James Hobbs.
Winners of the Las Donas Club’s Penny-a-Vote Cute Baby Contest were also recognized: First Place: Liberty Daulton,
daughter of Paige and Krys Daulton.
Second Place: Collyn-Grace Borg, daughter of Kaitlyn Borg. Third Place: Lakelyn Ringle, daughter of Jordan Ringle.
The baby contest entries were displayed at Akron Lake City Bank from June 20 to June 28, with awards presented on Sunday, June 28.
The 2024 Akron Queen, Sarah Finney, returned to the stage for her last duties in crowning the court at the event, which featured patriotic-themed categories and evening gown presentations.
WINNERS — The 2025 Miss Akron Fourth of July court was announced during the evening pageant. From left are first runner-up Averie Montel, Queen Autumn Parker and second runner-up and Miss Congeniality Shelby Cahill. Photo by Libby Hubbard.
CROWNED — Emalee Hobbs, 2025 Little Miss Sparkler, stands beside Mister Firecracker, Kaiden Arnett, after receiving their crowns and sashes at the Akron Fourth of July pageant. Photo by Libby Hubbard.
