UP — Fulton County public librarians at the Aubunabee Branch in Leiters Ford wrapped books for safety during the dusty time.
-17TH Farmer
& Pig Rodeo - 7pm Silly
5:30pm & 7pm
FRIDAY - 18TH
Livestock Auction - 5pm
SATURDAY - 19TH
Text and Photos By
LIBBY HUBBARD Staff Writer
A major renovation project is underway at the Fulton County Public Library, aiming to bring fresh life, safety improvements and enhanced usability to one of the county’s community hubs.
Library Director Andrea Roe recently shared an in-depth look into the project, which has been several years in the making, and is being funded by a 20-year, $2.8 million construction bond.
The renovations come as part of the library’s long-term strategic plan developed in 2022 with the help of Rethinking Libraries, which included a facility assessment, visioning study, and community focus groups.
“This is the kind of work that doesn’t come around every year,” Roe said. “We’ve planned carefully and tried to be practical with every dollar. This isn’t about aesthetics; it’s about safety, function and visibility.”
Among the most urgent upgrades is the relocation of the Fulton branch entrance.
The current entrance faces SR 25, where children running to the doors have had dangerous close calls with traffic. The new entrance will be relocated to Dunn Street, with a better-marked entrance, and the circulation desk
moved for improved visibility.
Other critical updates include a new HVAC system for the older side of the building; fresh paint and flooring; and a long-overdue overhaul of drainage in the parking lot at the Aubunabee branch, issues identified as safety hazards during planning.
“This project allows us to tackle everything at once,” Roe said. “We’re not just fixing things, we’re re-imagining the space for how people use the library today.”
A significant part of that vision includes elevating the Main Library’s creative and youth services. The hidden-away makerspace will be moved front and center, while the teen room is being expanded and reestablished for better access.
Roe emphasized that the changes are not cosmetic; they’re about making the library more inviting, inclusive and effective.
“There’s been this perception that the library raised people’s taxes,” Roe noted. “But the truth is, the bond only nudged the rate up by about half a penny. We’ve worked hard to stay fiscally responsible.”
The $2.8 million project is managed through a combination of local and professional partners, including Baker Tilly and Ice Miller as bond counsel. Permits and compliance are handled through a general contractor and
architect to streamline the process.
The updates come at a time of legislative uncertainty for libraries across Indiana, with shifting local government funding policies and tax structures. Despite that, Roe is optimistic.
“We’re doing this for the long term. Libraries aren’t static, they evolve with their communities,” she said. “We’ve been thoughtful and careful, but also a little bold.”
Renovations are expected to continue into next year, with the final bond payment scheduled for January 2026.
Beginning on Monday, June 16, the Main Library’s entrance in Rochester will be closed, requiring patrons to enter through Fulton Avenue, until the construction ceases.
The Aubunabee branch in Leiters Ford was expected to close for bathroom renovations on Monday, June 9, with a re-opening set tentatively for the next Monday, June 16th.
Until then, Roe says visitors can expect some dust, but also a lot of progress. Updates can be found online at fulco.lib.in.us.
TEEN ROOM — Library Director Andrea Roe standing in front of the current Teen Room which starts renovations Monday, June 16.
WRAPPED
new entrance for the Fulton Library will be located off of West Dunn Street.
By LIBBY HUBBARD Staff Writer
Inside Freddie Brissette’s home, time doesn’t just pass, it ticks, chimes and tells stories.
A self-taught clocksmith, Brissette has spent the last few years reviving antique timepieces and turning a dream into a hobby that may one day become a business.
“I had a dream in 2019,” Brissette shared. “It was in my sleep. I saw all these different clocks inside a historical building. That’s when I knew; I wanted to work with clocks.”
By day, Brissette works as a janitor at Culver Elementary School. But in his free time, he becomes a horologist — one who studies and repairs clocks.
His workspace is a meaningful corner of his home, where he carefully disassembles dials, inspects pivots, and tests mechanisms for 24 hours at a time to diagnose issues.
One of Brisette’s proudest restorations, he acclaimed. “A water-damaged clock I bought. It took me five months to fix,” he said. “Most of my collection, I find in one of the area’s eight antique stores or on eBay.”
Brissette dreams of opening a clock repair shop, possibly catering to communities like the Amish, where traditional timepieces are still used. Though he didn’t grow up
around clocks, Brissette says the hobby came naturally once he started.
“My mom has a wall regulator clock. It struck two big rockers,” he added with a smile.
For now, Brissette continues his craft from home, building not just a collection, but a future.
“You never know where one big dream can take you,” Brissette said, and for him, that dream may just be right on time.
Fulton County Historical Power Show returns June 19-21
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
People may showcase antique farm equipment or enjoy viewing it during the 2025 Fulton County Historical Power Show.
The event is noon to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 19; and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, June 20-21, on the Fulton County Museum grounds, 37 E. 375N, Rochester.
There will be various tractors on display, hit and miss engines, a flea market, food vendors, swap vendors and barrel trail rides for kids.
People can also participate in tractor pulls.
A toy show in the museum is 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. all three days.
Fulton County Historical Pow-
er Association Treasurer Robert “Skeeter” Daugherty said Brandon’s Powell ag line hauler business is the featured one for the show.
The Daugherty family is the featured farm family and will have various equipment on display.
Daugherty said his family was “honored” to be recognized.
Anyone is welcome to showcase
equipment at the show or enter the tractor pulls. To do so, people should contact Daugherty at (574) 835-5116.
To enter the power show, admission is $3 for ages 12 and older. Admission includes the ability to visit the museum’s Living History Village.
People may bring their golf carts on the property if they pay a $10 fee.
Fulton County Republican Women to meet June 23
The Fulton County Republican Women’s Club will be meeting at 5:30 p.m. Monday, June 23, at the Grass Creek Cattle Co., 7664 S. 1100W, Kewanna. The club will learn about making goat soap and have the opportunity to shop. Anyone interested may attend.
CLOCKSMITH — Local horologist, Freddie Brissette, posing with a clock from the 1800s.
HOROLOGY Freddie Brissette, local clocksmith, tinkering with his timeless antique clocks outside his home.
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
or
Epson ink cartridges
Good neighbors: Free, never opened Epson 220 ink cartridges (two boxes of two each black and one box of three each color.) Call (260) 908-6112.
New questions
Old baskets — I am looking for any type of old baskets. Call (574) 248-0181.
Pool slide — We are looking for a used pool slide still in good condition, or any other pool accessories you no longer need, diving board, etc. Call (574) 359-0047.
PAINTING THE DEPOT Joshua DeSonia of Rochester stands in front of the train depot at the Fulton County Museum he repainted for his Eagle Scout project. He’s a member of Scouting America Troop 219 and chose to work on the depot to give back to his community. It took him and other volunteers a year and a half to finish. Photo provided by Amanda DeSonia.
NEW EAGLE SCOUT Joshua DeSonia of Scouting America Troop 219 recently earned his Eagle Scout rank by repainting the depot at the Fulton County Museum. He will be a sophomore in the fall at Rochester High School. Photo provided by Amanda DeSonia.
Rochester summer library program runs through July 19
The summer library program at Fulton County Public Library, 320 W. Seventh St., Rochester, has officially started and runs through Saturday, July 19. The theme is “Color our World.” Signup is completely free and is required to participate. You can sign up in person at any of the branches.
There is a chance to win prizes each week. For a weekly chance to win: return a library item or use one (read a book, play a video game, etc.) while you’re in the library. When you attend a special program or activity the library is hosting, you get an extra chance to win the weekly prize drawing. A calendar of events is available online at fultco.lib.in.us, or
God’s comet
By RUSS DAVIDSON SR. Guest Writer
What if God would send a comet to earth to heal all health issues and end all wars?
If you found the comet in your yard, find the door and open it. If it doesn’t open, try another door.
grab a copy in-person to see what is planned for the summer. Every week, enter the weekly drawing, for a chance towards winning one of the grand prizes at the end of
the summer. Visiting the library each week is an automatic win. FCPL will have give-aways each week just for visiting and being signed up for the program.
O bituaries
Kevin P. Wicker
Local Union 645 Block Mason
Kevin P. Wicker Sr. 66, Rochester, passed away at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Northwest Health Hospital, LaPorte.
He was born on May 18, 1959, in Rensselaer, the son of Leland and Ruby (Selby) Wicker. On July 11, 1982, in Rochester, he married Nancy Elizabeth Moore; who survives.
Kevin worked for Culligan Water Service, Rochester, for many years. He later worked and retired as a block mason for Local Union 645, where he helped construct numerous schools. He had attended the Pentecostal Church. He enjoyed fishing, collecting coins, avid Star Trek fan, spending time with his grandchildren and was proud of his Cherokee heritage.
Survivors include his wife, Nancy Wicker; his sons, Kevin (Deanna) Wicker Jr. and Jason Lee (Amber) Wicker, all of Rochester; grandchildren, Nathaniel Caine Wicker, Emma Renee Wicker, Matthew Riley Wicker, Michael Joseph Wicker and Raine Wicker, all of Rochester; great grandson, Xander Lee Wicker, Rochester; and sister, Bobbie Jean Sellers, Momence, Ill.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Rachel Wicker and Linda Gross; brothers, Leland Wicker Jr., James Lesley Wicker, Charles David Wicker and Daniel Wicker.
No services are schedule at this time. Interment will be in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Rochester.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester. Online condolences can be shared with the family at zimmermanbrosfh.com.
Paul William Kimmel Farmer At Heart
Paul William Kimmel, 85, Rochester, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at his residence.
He was born on Oct. 30, 1939, to the late William and Mary (King) Kimmel in Montgomery County, Ohio. Paul was united in marriage with Janet Kay Brumbaugh on June 14, 1969.
Paul was a member of the Old German Baptist Brethren Church, Mexico District, near Hoover. He was a farmer in Ohio and worked at various other occupations throughout his life, but he always remained a farmer at heart.
Paul will be greatly missed by his wife, Janet; five children, Anne, April, Robin, John (Marie), and Dawn; two grandchildren, Jan and Berkley; a brother, David; two sisters, Martha Balsbaugh and Leah Filbrun; two brothers-in-law, John Petrie and Jerry (Connie) Brumbaugh; and many other relatives and friends.
Preceding him in death were his parents; parents-in-law; two sisters, Miriam Kuns and Mary Ann Petrie; three brothers-in-law, Lee Kuns, Donald Balsbaugh and Jerry Filbrun; and one sister-inlaw, Lois (Long) Kimmel.
Visitation will be from 2-5 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, June 11, at the Old German Baptist Brethren Church, Mexico District, near Hoover.
Funeral services will be held at the same location at 9 a.m. Thursday, June 12.
His body will be laid to rest at Newcomer Cemetery, Ohio, to await the Resurrection.
Arrangements by McClain Funeral Home, Denver.
Karen Lynn (Hattery) Byrum Educator At Caston Elementary School
Karen Lynn (Hattery) Byrum, 53, Twelve Mile, was welcomed home by her Lord and Savior at 12:17 p.m. Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, surrounded by loved ones, after a decade long and courageous battle with cancer.
Born on Aug. 28, 1971, at Dukes Memorial Hospital, she was the daughter of Max and Sue (Malott) Hattery. On Dec. 27, 1997, she was married to Roger Byrum, at the Mexico Church of the Brethren, where both had grown up together. Karen was a wonderful and caring mother to three very loved children, Evelynn, Elizabeth and Edison.
Growing up on the family farm near Macy, Karen shared her childhood with her identical twin sister, Karla, who was called home to Heaven in 2015 and twin brothers, Kent and Kevin, who loved them both dearly.
Karen was a 1990 graduate of North Miami High School and a 10-year Miami County 4-H member. She went on to graduate with a B.S. from Eastern Kentucky University in 1995, earning a degree in education. While at college, Karen belonged to the Kappa Delta Tau Sorority, where she formed many long-lasting friendships.
She served as an educator of children at Caston Elementary School, Rochester. Her passion was caring for and educating young children she taught in class. She spent her life serving others in the field of education in hopes of preparing the next generation.
Not only did Karen assist those in learning, she served the community by volunteering at various youth events and served at Mexico Church of the Brethren, where she was a member. She enjoyed watching Caston sporting, musical and robotic activities where her children and husband were very involved.
Karen, a faithful and Christ loving young woman, was the epitome of strength and a fighter who faced many trials and tribulations throughout her life. She was a kind-hearted and fierce friend who inspired others she touched every day.
Survivors include Karen’s husband, Roger Byrum, Twelve Mile; three children, Evelynn (Zach) Slocum, Fayetteville, N.C., Elizabeth (Leoudy) Ventura, Logansport and Edison Byrum, Twelve Mile; parents, Max and Sue Hattery, Macy; brothers, Kent (Debbie) Hattery, Reading, Mass. and Kevin (Erica) Hattery, Houston, Texas; a grandchild to be born in September, Henry Antonio Ventura, (Elizabeth and Leoudy); nieces and nephews, Abbigayle and Carson (Karla), William, Andrew, Grace and Catherine (Kent and Debbie), Nicole (Kevin and Erica); and several cousins, and close friends.
Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 11, at the church, with Pastor Tim Deardorff and Pastor Matt Myers officiating. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Cemetery, Mexico, where she will be laid to rest next to her sister.
Memorial contributions may be made through the funeral home to the Northern Indiana Community Foundation, (memo: Karen Hattery Byrum Memorial Fund), and offered at the funeral or sent to the funeral home, McClain Funeral Home, P.O. Box 248, Denver, IN 46926.
Arrangements by McClain Funeral Home, Denver.
Online condolences may be expressed at mcclainfh.com.
The Woodlawn Foundation Board would like to thank the following for their support at the Woodlawn Foundation golf tournament!
PLATINUM:
Rick Brown
GOLD: RTC
4C Health
Treva & Jim Mulligan
Smith, Sawyer, Smith
First Federal
Shepherd’s Chevrolet GMC
Blue & Company
Gallagher Insurance
Concord Medical Group
TekSystems/Parkview
SILVER: Outlaw Services
MacAllister Machinery Company, Inc.
BRONZE: Ft. Wayne Ortho Northern Indiana Community Foundation
Osaic Wealth Lake City Bank
TEE MARKERS:
Pike Lumber
Indiana Farm Bureau
- Hardesty Agency
Split Road Media
CPS Solutions
Perkins & Adley, LLC
Rochester Metal
Products
Keystone Allegra The Papers
DONATIONS: Culligan Water
Wayne L. Zellers
Wayne L. Zellers, 87, Sun City Center Fla., died Monday, May 26, 2025.
He was born on May 30, 1937. On June 5, 1959, he married Doris J. Kreamer; who survives.
WAYNE L. ZELLERS
Additional survivors are his son, Steven W. (Susan J.) Zellers, Coatesville; daughter, Susan A. (Jeffrey P.) Butler, Granger; sister, Marilyn J. Williams, Indianapolis; brother, Herbert G. (Rebecca S.) Zellers, Rochester; and five grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; three half sisters, Marjorie E. Martin, Virginia R. Cook and Naoma A. Seidel; half brother, Virgil R. Zellers; and sister, Nedra J. Bahler.
No services will be held.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Sun City Center Funeral Home, Sun City, Fla.
Dennis L. Freeland
Dennis L. Freeland, 66, Rochester, died Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Arrangements are pending with Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester.
Coffee and Conversation is June 12
The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce’s Coffee and Conversation is 7:30 a.m. Thursday, June 12, for its members.
It’s at Rochester Dining, 835 SR 25. Coffee is free, with breakfast an additional cost.
People should RSVP to lauren@fultoncountychamber.com.
RHS graduates 100% for Class of 2025
Rochester High School had a 100% graduation rate for the Class of 2025, reports Rochester Community Schools Superintendent Jana Vance.
She noted it may be the first time in school history for it.
The school’s commencement was on Friday, June 6.
KEVIN P. WICKER
KAREN LYNN (HATTERY) BYRUM
Sheryl ‘Sherri’ L. Evener
Registered Nurse
Sheryl “Sherri” L. Evener RN, age 72, passed peacefully onto eternal life at 4:22 a.m. Sunday, June 8, 2025, surrounded by her entire family and many dear friends. This followed a fierce and valiant battle with cancer.
Born on Aug. 16, 1952, in Valparaiso, she was the cherished daughter of Caroline M. Stinson and Jack D. Evener. Growing up, she shared her childhood with a sister and two brothers. Proudly she graduated with the class of 1970, from Chesterton High School.
SHERYL “SHERRI” L. EVENER
Continuing her education in 1991, at Indiana University of Kokomo School of Nursing, she earned an associate’s degree along with the distinction of registered nurse.
Nurse Sherri, dedicated 28 years of her life to a nursing career at Logansport Memorial and Woodlawn Hospital, where she served in both the medical-surgical and oncology units. She maintained certification in oncology for her most recent seven years at Woodlawn, retiring in 2017. Her care was marked by strength, compassion and unwavering kindness. Beyond her profession, Sheri found joy in suspense novels, shopping with her girlfriends, crocheting and weekly card games with her dear group of “retired nurses.”
Above all, Sherri was the heart and foundation of her family, a strong and steady presence who led with love, wisdom and faith. Her greatest passion was spreading the word of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Sherri is survived by her beloved three children, Nicholas Donahue; and two daughters, Courtney Collins (Matthew) and Shannon Donahue. She is also lovingly remembered by her three grandchildren, Michael Donahue, Kelsey Collins and Kaidin Yeazel (expecting a son in November), as well as grandsons-in-law, Hugo Meza and Jasten Snapp. Sherri is further survived by her brother, Robert Evener; and sisters-in-law, Marie and Teresa Evener; along with many extended family members and close friends who held her dear, including her best friend until the end, Jeralyn Hines.
Preceding Sherri in death are her parents, Caroline and Jack Evener; sister, Jackie Evener; and a brother, John Evener.
The Nursing Honor Guard of Midwestern Indiana, Winamac, will perform a Nightengale Tribute, to honor Sherri’s dedication and service to the nursing profession at 4 p.m. The service to celebrate Sherri’s life will immediately follow Thursday, June 12, in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 W. 18th St., Rochester.
Her family will receive friends from 2 p.m. until the time for her tribute and celebration. Ch. Jason See will officiate. Her burial will be at a later date in the IOOF Cemetery, Rochester.
All who knew and loved Sherri are welcome to attend and honor her memory. She will be dearly missed.
Online expressions of sympathy may be made to her family at goodfamiyfh.com.
Business Connectors Lunch set for June 18
The Fulton County Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Business Connectors Lunch at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 18, at the Mellow Mug Cafe, 712 Main St., Rochester, for its members
No more than two people from each business should attend.
People should RSVP by Friday, June 13 to Chamber Executive
Court News
Circuit Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Circuit Court, Judge Arthur Christopher Lee presiding: Complaints
One Advantage, LLC v. Kristina Babendrager, Rochester, $1,678.71
Midland Credit Management v. Caleb Bradley, Rochester, $2,143.57 Superior Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Superior Court, Judge Gregory L. Heller presiding:
Drive Now Auto Credit v. William Sauer, Kewanna, $16,404.06; Zackia Mitchell, Avon, $8,854.94
Velocity Investments v. Carolyn Callahan, Rochester, $7,831.32
Synchrony Bank v. Linda Apple, Kewanna, $2,489.77; Gary Randall, Rochester, $2,589.58
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. v. Brian Townsend, Rochester, $11,205.90 Complaint
Traffic Violations
The following fines and levies were paid in Fulton County courts:
Child restraint system violation, child less than 8 years of age, speeding — Naomi Williams, South Bend, $139.50
Disregarding an official traffic control device — David Smook, Rochester, $164.50
Driving while suspended — William Johnson III, South Bend, $164.50; Alfredo Barrientoz, Macy, $164.50; Garret Hook, Fulton, $164.50
Failure of occupant to use a safety belt — Patrick Burkett, Rochester, $25
Failure to display proof of watercraft registration — Ted Merrell, Kokomo, $149
Failure to yield right-of-way to emergency vehicle — Charlotte Staton, Culver, $154.50
Open alcoholic beverage during operation of a motor vehicle, operating with expired plates — David Blystone Jr., Plymouth, $199.50
Operating a motor vehicle with
a false plate, plate belongs to another vehicle — Ryan Baer, Noblesville, $164.50
Operating with expired plates — Taletha Wyatt, Indianapolis, $164; Micah Winrotte, Plymouth, $164; Jacob Fleming, South Bend, $164; William Jensen, Kokomo, $164; Scott Hagaman, South Bend, $164
Passing a stopped school bus when stop arm is out and activated — Devon Jackson, Akron, $389.50
Passing in a no passing zone, speeding — Brenden Corn, Logansport, $200
Speeding — Mary Said, Cincinnati, Ohio, $164.50; Emily Spencer, Seymour, $175; Phillip Ciesialka, Greenwood, $154.50; John Nightingale, Peru, $154.50; Shanika Kelly, Elkhart, $154.50; Jason Antunez, Albuquerque, N.M., $154.50; Anthony Robles II, Toledo, Ohio, $164.50; Luis Gutierrez, Sheridan, $164.50; Kimberly Silveus, Warsaw, $154.50; Jared Stephens, Mentone, $154.50; Gary Lewallen, Mission, Texas, $154.50; Tyris Varga, Mishawaka, $154.50; Robbin Duverney, Knox, $154.50; Saysha Wright, Indianapolis, $154.50; Benjamin Martin Jr., Rochester, $154.50; Christine Szalajko, South Bend, $154.50; Angela Taylor, Culver, $164.50; Keith Clark, Indianapolis, $164.50; Kenneth Walton, Indianapolis, $154.50; Akwasi Ansah-antwi, Provo, Utah, $154.50; Stella Wilkerson, Louisville, Ky., $154.50; Desiree Borneo, India-
The following couple has applied for a marriage license in the office of Fulton County Clerk of the Court: Jewell-Olson
Bobby Jewel, 20, Rochester, and Jessica Olson, 19, Rochester.
Marriage
Dissolutions
The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in Fulton County courts: Brooke — Kyle Brooke, Rochester, and Erin Brooke, North Judson. No minor children. Zartman — Jessa Zartman, Rochester, and Ashley Zartman, Rochester. With minor children. Hellyer — Stetson Hellyer, Pierceton, and Rhiley Hellyer, Rochester. With minor children. Cripe — Sawyer Cripe, Rochester, and Megan Cripe, Rochester. With minor children.
Assistant Lauren Ignaffo at (574) 224-2666 or lauren@fultoncountychamber.com. The event is free.
June happenings in the Fulton County Public Library
The Fulton County Public Library will host the following events and activities at its branches. For more information visit fulco.lib.in.us, the Facebook page or call (574) 2232713.
Rochester: Adult
• 2-4 p.m. Thursday, June 12. Makerspace: Chicken wire suncatcher, in the Arboretum.
• 4:30 p.m. Friday, June 13. Bingo, in meeting room A and B. All ages.
• 3 p.m. Tuesday, June 17. Creating a mindfulness practice. Meditation workshop, in meeting room A. No sign-up required.
• 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 17. Debbie’s Dandies: Farmhouse chickens, in the media commons.
• 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, June 18. Country Lanes family bowling night. Sign-up will be located at the children’s circulation desk.
• 3 p.m. Tuesday, June 24. Creating a mindful practice. Meditation workshop, in meeting room A. No sign-up required.
Rochester: Children and Teens
• 1-2 p.m. Thursday, June 12. Nutrition 101, in the Teen Oasis.
• 1-2:30 p.m. Friday, June 13. Friday fun day (Disasterpieces), in meeting room B.
• 4:30-5:30 p.m. Friday, June 13. Bingo, in meeting room B.
• 1-2:30 p.m. Monday, June 16. Mondays with Morgan, in meeting room B.
• 2 p.m. Monday, June 16. Teen movie and popcorn (teen pick), in the Teen Oasis
• 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 17.
Storytime with craft, in meeting room A.
• 1-4 p.m. Tuesday, June 17. Let’s paint, in Teen Oasis.
• 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, June 18.
Family bowling night, at Country Lanes. Sign-up will be located at the children’s circulation desk
• Noon to 4:05 p.m. Thursday, June 19. Teen VR day, in the Teen Oasis.
• 2-3 p.m. Thursday, June 19. Makerspace: “Bella the Bookworm Rock” painting, in the Arboretum. Ages 5-12.
• 4 p.m. Thursday, June 19. Rather be reading, in the Indiana room.
• 1-2:30 p.m. Friday, June 20. Friday fun day (Spin-A-Masterpiece), in the Arboretum.
• 1-2:30 p.m. Monday, June 23. Mondays with Morgan, in meeting room B.
• 2 p.m. Monday, June 23. Teen Movie Day (Paddington), in the Teen Oasis.
• 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 24. Storytime with a craft, in meeting room A.
• 1-3:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 24. Teen craft day (Just bead it), in the Teen Oasis.
• 1-3:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 25. A random poetry workshop, in the Teen Oasis .
• 2-3:30 p.m. Thursday, June 26. Makerspace: Sketchin’ session
(Painting with alcohol ink), in the Teen Oasis.
• 1-2:30 p.m. Friday, June 27. Friday fun day (Cookies and canvas), in meeting room B.
• 2 p.m. Monday, June 30. Teen movie day and popcorn (“Paddington in Peru”), in the Teen Oasis. Aubbee
• Noon to 1 p.m. Monday, June 16. Teen Craft: Masking tape portrait.
• 3-4 p.m. Tuesday, June 17. Adult craft: Bottle cap flowers.
• 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, June 18. Kid’s craft: Tie dye t-shirts.
• 3-5 p.m.Tuesday, June 24. Cookbook club: Picnic favorites.
• 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, June 25. Kid’s craft: Rock painting.
• 1-2:30 p.m. Saturday, June 28.
Lego club.
Fulton
• Noon to 3 p.m. Thursday, June 12. Carnival game.
• 10 a.m. to 1 p.m Friday, June 13. Tech time with Zak.
• Noon to 3 p.m. Tuesday, June 17. Kid’s craft
• Noon to 3 p.m. Thursday, June 19. Carnival game.
• 10 a.m to 1 p.m. Friday, June 20. Tech time with Zak.
• Noon to 3 p.m. Tuesday, June 24. Kid’s craft.
• 12:30-2 p.m. Tuesday, June 24. Hooks and needles.
• 10-11 a.m. Wednesday, June 25. 1,000 books before kindergarten.
• Noon to 3 p.m. Thursday, June 26. Carnival game.
• 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, June 27. Tech time with Zak.
Rush, Rogers top Caston Class of 2025
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
Braden Rush and Zach Rogers finished on top of the Caston High School Class of 2025.
Rush was the valedictorian and Rogers the salutatorian for the class, which graduated last month.
Rush said he was “elated” to receive the distinction.
“I had been hoping to be valedictorian my entire high school career,” he said. “Having been in band and choir all four years, I got to sit through every graduation starting freshman year and saw all of the past valedictorians and salutatorians give their speeches and walk the stage, and I always hoped that I could be there one day.”
Rush said he was “also very honored that I got to represent my class at graduation.”
He’s the son of Aaron and Christina Rush of Macy. Rush
also received the 2025 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship for Fulton County.
He’s headed to Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in Terre Haute to study mechanical engineering, with a concentration in aerospace, with plans to work for NASA or SpaceX.
spired him.
Rogers, of Logansport, is the son of Kyle and Mary Jo Rogers.
“It was super exciting,” he said of being named salutatorian.
Rogers said the race for the top spots in the 2025 class was tight.
He noted focusing on academics was “always something that was reinforced” by his parents.
While at Caston, Rush played soccer and was in track and field and the drama club. He was also in FFA, Key Club and Bring Change to Mind club, vice president of National Honor Society and involved in 4-H and his church, Fulton Baptist Temple.
Rush said his engineering teacher Nathan Speitel, English and physics teacher Nikki Evans, algebra I and calculus teacher Tricia Bennett and chemistry II teacher Jessica Hoffman all in-
Rogers will study biomedical engineering at Indiana University of Indianapolis. He hopes to eventually work on prosthetic organs and limbs.
He cites band teacher Jonathan Allender as being his favorite educator.
While at Caston, Rogers was in track and field, soccer, Key Club and band. He also was on the Logansport Savings Bank student board.
BRADEN RUSH ZACH ROGERS
Updates and happenings in and around the area
Coffee and Conversation with the Chamber of Commerce is scheduled for 7:30-8:30 a.m. Thursday, June 12 at Rochester Dining, 835 IN-25, Rochester.
Breakfast is available for purchase. Register at fultoncountychamber.com/events/details/ June-2025-coffee-conversation.
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Board of works meeting will be at 8:30 a.m. Friday, June 13, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Commissioner’s meeting will be at 6 p.m. Monday, June 16, in the large conference room at the Fulton County Office Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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Akron town council meeting will be at 6 p.m. Monday, June 16 at Town Hall, 206 W. Rochester St., Akron.
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Senior movie day will feature “Best Man in Grass Creek” at 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 17, at The Times Theater, 618 Main St., Rochester.
The senior combo admission is $5. Tickets are available online and at the box office from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesdays. Visit times theater.com or the Facebook page for more information.
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County council meeting will be at 5 p.m. Tuesday, June 17, in the large conference room, at the Fulton County Office Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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The Fulton County Board of Health will meet in regular session at 12:15 p.m. Tuesday, June 17, in the small conference room at the
Fulton County Office Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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The Rochester city pool will be offering swim lessons for children 4 years of age and up. Classes will be 9-11 a.m. and 4-6 p.m. beginning Tuesday, June 17. These are 30 minute lessons.
For sign-up and more information call Charlee Schwenk at (574) 835-4890 or Lori Simpson at (574) 835-1354.
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Akron park board will meet at 3 p.m. Wednesday, June 18 at Town Hall, 206 W. Rochester St., Akron.
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There will be first aid, CPR and AED training from 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, June 18, at Rochester Fire Department, 2006 E. SR 14, Rochester. Call (574) 223-6113 to sign up.
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There will be a free meal 5:30-7 p.m. Wednesday, June 18 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. Take-out is available.
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A free veteran’s breakfast is scheduled for 8 a.m. Thursday, June 19 at Life Care Center, 827 W. 13th St., Rochester. Call (574) 223-4331 to RSVP.
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Board of works meeting will be at 7:30 a.m. Friday, June 20 at the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Lake Manitou Association will meet at 9 a.m. Saturday, June 21 at the Moose Lodge, 1911 Westside
ROTARY NURSE’S SCHOLARSHIP
— Rotarian
Drive, Rochester.
Scheduled is the annual meeting and election of board members.
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The HeARTery, 414 E. Main St., Kewanna, will host a block party from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, June 21.
Event highlights are live music, caboose tours, water games, vendor booths, games and contests and food trucks. For booth space, call Lori Roberts at (574) 205-2703.
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Area plan meeting will be at 7 p.m. Monday, June 23, in the large conference room at the Fulton County Office Building, 125 E.
Ninth St., Rochester.
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County council meeting will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 24 at the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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City BZA meeting will be at 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 25 at Rochester City Hall, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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A prenatal yoga program will be 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 25, at Culver Beach Lodge, 819 E. Lake Shore Drive, Culver. The program runs through July 23. Visit fultoncountychamber.com/events/details/
One Way Out
Saturday, June 14th 7pm-11pm
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
prenatal-yoga for more information. —o—
If you live in Henry or Newcastle Townships and are in need of diapers, you may visit United We Stand Ministries once a month to receive a package of diapers. The hours are 2-4 p.m. Thursdays. It is located in Akron behind the grocery store, in the back parking lot of the Akron United Methodist Church.
WINNER
Curt Haussmann, left, recently presented a check to nursing scholarship recipient, Audrey Bolinger. She plans to attend Indiana University, Bloomington, in the fall to obtain a nursing degree. This summer and for the past three years she has been employed at Dick’s Drive-In, Rochester. Photo submitted by Rochester Rotary Club.
June 15 Happy Father’s Day June 15
Let’s Study The Bible — God’s warning
(Read: Romans 1:18-32)
“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap” (Galatians 6:7).
to all people
ment against sin (verse 32); but now they reached the lowest level of their downward fall: they did not even want to have knowledge of God. “The fool has said in his heart, ‘There is no God’ ” (Psalm 14:1).
If a Bible student wishes to master any one book of the Bible, let it be Romans. An understanding of this book is a key to unlocking the entire word of God.
First, The people knew God (Romans 1:1820). God had given them a twofold revelation of himself “in them” (conscience) and “unto them” (creation), verse 19. People did not begin with ignorance and gradually work Their way up to intelligence; they began with a blazing revelation of the power and wisdom of God and turned their backs on it.
God had revealed himself from the very time of creation, so that people who have never heard the Gospel are still without excuse. (How God judges such people is taken up in Romans chapter 2.)
Second, The people glorified Him not as God (Romans 1:2123). Vain thinking and foolish reasoning turned people from the truth to lies. We see indifference leading to ingratitude, resulting in ignorance.
People today bow before the Greek and Roman philosophers and honor their words above the word of God; but Paul calls all of these philosophies “empty imaginations” and “times of ignorance” (Acts 17:30)! The next step was idolatry, honoring the creature (including mankind) rather than the creator.
Third, The people changed the truth of God (Romans 1:2425). This word “changed” should really read “exchanged.” People replaced God’s truth with Satan’s lie. What is Satan’s lie? Worshiping the creature and not the creator; worshiping mankind instead of God; worshiping things instead of Christ.
Satan tempted Christ to do this (Matthew 4:8-11). Notice that in Romans 1:18, the Gentiles “held down the truth,” and now they “exchange the truth” for a lie! The truth believed and obeyed sets us free (John 8:31-32); the truth rejected and disobeyed makes us slaves.
Fourth, The people rejected the knowledge of God (Romans 1:26-32). These people had begun with a clear knowledge of God (verses 19, 21) and God’s judg-
It is sad to see the tragic results of this decline. Evolutionists want us to believe that humans have “evolved” from primitive, ignorant, beast-like forms into the marvelous creature they are today. Paul says just the opposite: mankind began the highest of God’s creatures, but turned into beasts!
Notice the three judgments of God:
1. God gave them up to uncleanness and idolatry, verses 24-25.
2. God gave them over to vile passions, verses 26-27.
3. God gave them over to a reprobate mind, verses 28-32. God gave them up (verse 24). The sins listed here are too vile to define or discuss, yet they are practiced today by many with the approval of society.
Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines free at rcpbibleoutlines.com. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.
Annual Gilead garage sales June 21
The annual Gilead garage sales will be from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 21. Maps are available at 8 a.m. at the Gilead store, on the day of the sale.
WOODLAWN ER MEDICAL DIRECTOR AWARDED FOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS — Woodlawn Health and Concord Medical Group announce Dr. Timothy Hamburg has been honored as the 2025 Emergency Medicine Newcomer of the Year. He received this award due to his leadership, clinical excellence, and unwavering dedication since joining the organization in May 2024. Hamburg serves as the medical director for Woodlawn and has since been promoted by Concord Medical Group as Regional Medical Director.
“We are so honored to have Dr. Hamburg leading our Emergency Department. Under his leadership there has been an increase in community satisfaction, staff morale, and a decrease in waiting times, even though the number of patients has increased. He has been a transformational leader and pivotal to the changes made in the department this year,” Alan Fisher, CEO of Woodlawn Health, stated. Photo provided by Woodlawn Health.
By THE REV. RON PURKEY
June 15 Happy Father’s Day June 15
Headache vs. migraine
By KEN SEMONIS, RRT, RPSGT Woodlawn Health
Editor’s Note: Ken Semonis is employed by Woodlawn Health
Caffeine headaches can result from a sudden reduction or cessation of caffeine consumption and are characterized by a throbbing pain that can last for several days. Like a migraine in terms of throbbing pain, the trigger is sudden caffeine cessation and is not associated with nausea or sensitivity to light or noise.
Rebound headaches are like caffeine headaches but are initiated by the overuse of certain medications and may present as a daily headache. Their symptoms are like the caffeine headaches previously discussed.
Cluster headaches are less common than those already discussed but are very severe and are often confused with migraine headaches.
They are noted for intense burning or piercing pain around an eye or one side of the head. Often described as excruciating, they tend to last for as long as three hours or as short as fifteen minutes. They can occur multiple times a day (clusters), for days, weeks or even months followed by periods of no headaches. Cluster headaches can cause redness and tears in the affected eye, nasal congestion and restlessness. As they are episodic in nature with specific locations of pain, they are unlike migraines which can cause nausea, light and sound sensitivity.
Migraine headaches are characterized by intense throbbing pain, often on one side of the head or other. They may be accompanied by a variety of other symptoms such as light and sound sensitivity, nausea and vomiting. One may experience auras 30 to 60 minutes before the onset of the migraine.
Caston Elementary announces honor rolls
The following students were named to the Caston Elementary fourth quarter grading period of the 2024-2025 school year.
All A Honor Roll
The following students received all A’s:
Fifth Grade — Titan DeMond, Leigha Eber, Eric Fort, Ketni Gibson, Layla Joseph, Pilot Manley, Parker Manus, Brielle McVay, Kailani Miller, Lucas Moon and Silas Rudicel.
Fourth Grade — Cece Boldry, Lucas Douglass, Ellison Greer, Brooklyn Harrison, Molly Moon, Jacoby Rentschler, Kam Rigney, Carson Tyra, Cara Ulerick and Levi Zartman
or Emery, Haizley Franklin, Zane Grubb, Hunter Hall, Maleena Hendry, Alex Holcomb, Ava Holloway, Alexandria Hulette, Jackson Lovelady, Annabelle Moulder, Kolin Oberkrom, Tanner Overmyer, Kayden Rentschler, Wyatt Smith, Landon Sorak, Tessa Tate, Hunter Taylor and Silas Yarber.
Fourth Grade — Kooper Baird, Serenity Blacketor, Akinnah Brown, Lucas Clark, Harper Eshelman, Claudia Homburg, Eloy Hulette, Max Marrs, Taylor McKinley, Alaina Russell, Eliana Shamblin, Fletcher Swisher, Aubree Van Ham, Cailen Walker and Julianna Wright.
Third Grade — Paisley Apperson, Ryker Ball, Henry Bowyer, Mykah Brown, Riley Clupper, Karrigan Cook, Harper Davis, Cyric Evans, Brayten Ferguson, Deacon Finke, Aevah Fort, Emma Fry, Zoe Grubb, Elliana Harrison, Gracelyn Holladay, Neo Hulette, Kane Jackson, Chloe Johnson, Oliver Jones, Sawyer Jones, Izzy Kieninger, Molly Lovelady, Caroline Maynard, Dean McKee, Riley Miller, Daliela Ray, Carter Rentschler, Kory Riley, Avery Roller, Carter Schroder, Colette Scott, Felix Shuck, Owen Swanson, Gracie Taylor, Jayden West, Karli Williams and Claire Woodhouse.
Auras may include visual disturbances such as flashing lights, blind spots or zigzag patterns. Migraines may last several hours to a few days and can be severely debilitating. Treatment often includes home remedies like resting in a dark quiet room to alleviate symptoms. It may also mean the use of Triptans, a medication used to treat migraines. They work by constricting blood vessels in the brain thus reducing inflammation and pain. Anti-nausea medications may also be indicated. While it will not eliminate migraines, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, stress management as well as staying well hydrated can reduce incidences and severity of migraines.
Understanding the differences in headache types is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment. While general headache remedies may provide relief for tension or sinus headaches, migraines and cluster headaches often require specialized medications and lifestyle adjustments.
“My father used to say that it’s never too late to do anything you wanted to do. And he said, ‘You never know what you can accomplish until you try.” — Michael Jordan —
Dive into Fulton County Chamber Member of the Month, Dick’s Drive In
Text and Photos
By LIBBY HUBBARD Staff Writer
A local landmark with deep community ties, Dick’s Drive-In has been named the Fulton County Chamber of Commerce Member of the Month.
Owner Jeff Working said he never expected to return to food service after spending over two decades farming. But when he came across the drive-in, he saw an opportunity to preserve a piece of Rochester’s past.
“I was looking for an ice cream stand,” Working said, “ended up selling tacos.”
Though only open seasonally from 4:30-9 p.m., Dick’s has a devoted fan base.
“Some people are here four nights a week,” Working said. “It’s almost cult-like; we’ll just call it loyal.”
Working previously owned the B&K before stepping away to farm. Now, his passion for old-school Americana drives his mission to keep Dick’s legacy alive.
One of the original menus from the late 1950s was displayed for patrons to witness the reduced prices of 30-cent tacos and tamales.
Dick’s began selling tacos in 1958, long before fast food made
Chamber Executive Assistant Lauren Ignaffo, and Chamber Executive Director Tiffany Lukens. In the back row are Kaylee Kinzie, Owner Jeff Working, Jennifer Johnson, Ashlyn Hatterman, Cindy Stoner and Mayor Trent Odell.
them mainstream. Working recalled a chat with the late Dick Dewald’s wife.
“I asked Joyce, Dick’s wife, what people thought when she and Dick started the place up,” Working recalled. “She said, ‘What the hell’s a taco?’”
Working never met Dick himself but has connected with his family
and cherishes the stories.
“There used to be five drive-ins in Rochester. Now there are just two,” he said. “I hated seeing this one closed. These places are part of people’s memories.”
From collecting neon signs to displaying vintage photos, Working sees the drive-in as a time capsule.”
I’m a softie for old things,” he said. “This isn’t just about food. It’s about history, and keeping it alive.”
Fulton County Chamber of Commerce monthly members are chosen at random through a drawing of those local businesses that monetarily contribute to the cham-
CHAMBER MEMBER — Celebrating the Fulton County Chamber Member of the Month recognition in front from left are Jon Watson, Emma Howdeshell, Rayland Shaklin, Kaelin Pattison,
AMERICANA — Current Owner of Dick’s Drive In, Jeff Working, standing in front of the newest menu.
TRAILER SHOWROOM SITE
Rochester Mayor Trent Odell said Neil Shepherd, who owns Alumi Tech of Talma, plans to put a trailer showroom for his business in this area off CR 50E near US 31 in Rochester, with the manufacturing to eventually move to this site as well.
DEVELOPMENT
FULL-TIME / PART-TIME DRIVERS
Fulton County Transpo is seeking full-time and part-time drivers for out-of-town medical trips and local driving.
Successful applicant must be detail oriented and able to pass drug/alcohol tests and physical exam. Applications available at Fulton County Transpo office. All training is provided. EEO 625 Pontiac St., Rochester, IN M-F 7am to 5pm
have begun extending
Family Tractors
COLORS WELCOME! FINISHED OR UNFINISHED Tractor Drive - Wednesday, June 18 at 5 pm
*GOLF CARTS allowed - Fee charged for personal cart - need proof of insurance. TRACTORS, HIT-N-MISS ENGINES, GARDEN TRACTORS, TRUCKS, FLEA MARKET, FOOD VENDORS, TOY SHOW, SWAP VENDORS, DAILY ANTIQUE TRACTOR PULLS, BARREL TRAIN RIDES AND KIDS GAMES
ONSITE PARADE, DEMONSTRATIONS, ETC. SOMETHING FOR ALL AGES! OPEN TO FESTIVAL VISITORS ONLY - MUSEUM & LIVING HISTORY VILLAGE, TIPPECANOE RIVER, ETC.
*LOCATED AT FCHS GROUNDS, 4 MILES NORTH OF ROCHESTER, IN ON US 31 & CR 375 N. PRIMITIVE CAMPING SITE - SEE APPLICATION FOR DETAILS. FOR FURTHER HOTELS/CAMP INFO On Website Listed Below FOR INFORMATION CONTACT: MELINDA CLINGER 574-223-4436
HOPE YOU CAN COME AND PARTICIPATE WITH US AT OUR SHOW. THANKS! THE FCHPA MEMBERS & BOARD OF DIRECTORS NO DOGS ALLOWED IN FESTIVAL AREA Admission $3.00 (age 12 & older) - Free admission age 11 and under.
This
and
APARTMENT WORK Work has started on Hawkins Homestead, a senior apartment building located on College Avenue in Rochester. Photo by Leah Sander.
EXTENDING THE NICKEL PLATE Workers
the Nickel Plate Trail in Rochester. Shown is work near the current end of the trail near Wabash Avenue. Photo by Leah Sander.
NICKEL PLATE EXTENSION Curbwork has been put in for the Nickel Plate Trail extension along Race Street near Shear Image in Rochester. The extension will connect to the trail along the Round Barn Golf Club at Mill Creek. Photo by Leah Sander.
POOL WORK Work is ongoing at the Rochester City Pool, with new decking, a new liner and new fencing. Photo by Leah Sander.
RETAIL
area southeast of Walmart
Pilot Travel Center in Rochester is being eyed for a future retail development, said Rochester Mayor Trent Odell. Photo by Leah Sander.
Photo by Leah Sander.
Rochester Middle School announces honor roll
The following students were named to the Rochester Middle School fourth grading period of the 2024-2025 school year.
All A Honor Roll
The following students received all A’s:
Seventh Grade — Kylie M. Aguilar, Lindy I. Armstrong, Aubrey Lynn Bauman, Vada Mae Biernacki, Grayson Lane Bowyer, Kenna Lee Calvert, Cash Paul Casper, Katelyn Cheyenne Conliff, Korbyn Ian Crossland, Warner Thomas, Joseph Michael DuBois, Lucas Wayne Enyart, Isaac Wayne Field, Alaina Garrison, Jordan Edgar Gonzalez, Allaynna Marie Hart, Hailey Mae Howell, Ayden Joseph Jaeger, Ella Rayne Jenkins, Elijah Thomas Kreighbaum, Sarai Lopez, Rilee Jean Lucker, Kinlee Monroe McKee, Lillian April Merideth, Blade Cooper Miller-Reffitt, Sera Marie Roe, Abraham James Seward, Parker Gabriel Smith, Piper Nicole Snyder, Gavin Levi Sutton, Makayla Rose Walley and Macie Grayce Widman.
Sixth Grade — Alivia Jane Carpenter, Deacon Kane Cheesman, Alivia Marie Ford, Ava Lorraine Forry, Kymberlee Jezette Gonzalez, Hank Matthew Hardesty, Anastasia Sophia Jackson, Bailey Jean Koebcke, Chloe Renee Ladouceur, Millie Jo Maroney, Mason Kyle McLochlin, Jacob Michael Miller, Allison Ava Mulligan, Melissa Louise Rose Riseling, Heidi Grace Shuck, Easton Ray Warren, McCrea Meredith Wilson and Whitley Jeanette Winans.
Fifth Grade — Jolene Lyn Arm-
strong, Carson Tyler Banks, Wyatt Damic Beck, Daphne Dell Blakesley, Molly Ann Brouyette, Landyn David-Mack Brower, Brantlyn Andrew Brubaker, Weslee Mavrick Buckner, Corinna Rae Chevalier, Lennox Blas Ferro, Ryker Jace Fishburn, Everett Louis Horvath, Harper Lee Howell, Morgan R. Jacobson, Kaitlin L. Jaeger, Luke Bradley Dean Johnson, Aria Mae Kauffman, Crew William Kiser, Otto Leroy Koebcke, Andrew Joseph Love, Benjamin Cole Love, Graham Joseph Miller, LouAnnie Mae Million, Gil Orville Newton, Carter Owen Overmyer, Avery Lynn Perkins, Liam Jeffery Robertson, Madison Leah Rupley, Dakota Kaye Schwarte, Maddox Ares Xander Shaffer, Nora Rose Straeter, Luke Michael Thomas, Mackenzie D. Utter, Kaylee Ann Layne Weakman, Evan James Wilson and Lanah Harper Young.
A/B Honor Roll
The following students received A/B’s:
Seventh Grade — Charlotte Louise Backus, Kera May Baugh Owens, Dawson O Beehler, Zoey Josleyn Binion, Ashlyn Rae Bradley, Hayley Michelle Bright, Baylee Elizabeth Brown, Rosalynne Marie Casey, Alyssa Michelle Clapper, Aydan Alexander Cortes-Gustafson, Kinley Sue Flory, Zandra Laine Handy, Makenna Sue Jackson, Grayson Oliver Kauffman, Asher Allen James Merrill, Melodie Grace Musselman, Griffin Paul Newton, Ella Sophia Papandria, Aiven James Pawski, Gabriel Pote, Alexander Jay Schwarte, Charles
Shull, Morgan Jade Simpson, Kenlee Marie Smith and Elijah Eric Straeter.
Sixth Grade — Khloe Anahi Destiny, Andrea Aguilar, Nyah Lane Archambeault, Milah Arteaga, Willow Grace Black, Zuri Marie Blackburn, Mason Lee Bowyer, Owen Patrick Brady, Liam Michael Burton, Reed Hunter Casper, Tehya Rayne Gonzales, Layni Mae Helt, William Henry Hickman, Briggs Matthew Hunter, Paige Bailey Jacobson, Tyler Alan Lawrence Kanouse, Jolene Kaye Lockwood, Lincoln Douglas Merideth, Olliveia Lou Messersmith, Sadie Melane Pearson, Kapri Nicole Dawn Pesak, Mikel Angelo Richcreek, Isabella Eileen Ritter, Daisy Anne Salvatierra, Sophie Anne Shuck, Mason Lee Straeter, Valerie Louise Trainer, Eden Kara Lynn Tucker, Cailynn Mae Tyler, Caleb William Vigar, Layne Joseph Wagoner, Linley Marie Wilburn, Jack Richard Williams, Paisley Lashel Williams, Ryder Michael Benjamin Winterrowd and Hadley Joanne Zehner.
Fifth Grade — Thomas J. Artist, Alice Makenzie Atkinson, Stephen Joseph Biggs, Solomon Edward Thomas Bitterling, Ethan Castle Cloud, Braden James Coggins, Andre Gustavo Cortes, Alexis Marie Davis, Lucy James Downs, Tyson Ray Eatmon, Kayden Rae Eriks, Austin Ray Field, Gage Robert Fishburn, Jordan Marcus Halterman, Mason Elmer Hamilton, Grant Nathaniel Wells Holder, Logan J Howard, Madison Kay Hunter, Wyatt Jackson
Kapp, Keaghan Marie Kauffman, Griffin Max McKee, Vincent Terry McKee, Vanessa Noel Miller, Mylie Mae Musselman, Alexandria Mae Parks, Donovan Josue Poe, Bently Charles Reames, Harper Lee
Rensberger, Kinley Grace Reynolds, Sophie RayLynn Ritter, Cross Michael Sliss, Abby Leann Small, Brenton Jacob Adam Smith, Noah Lee Stuber, Layla Lenay Swartzel and Nevaeh Faye White.
June events happening at Akron Public Library
The following events will be available in June, at Akron Public Library, 205 E. Rochester St., Akron. For more information on these programs visit akron.lib.in.us, or call (574) 893-4113.
Illusions At The Library
“Illusions at the Library” will be available to those signed up for the reading program. Learn how to create illusions and perform magic tricks that are sure to amaze your friends and family. Multiple times are available for this activity, but class sizes are limited. You must be registered reading program in order to participate. Sign-up is required. This is a children’s activity.
Bust Out Canvases
“Bust Out Canvases” will start at 2 p.m. Thursday, June 12. Students will create a beautiful and unique 3-D canvas picture to take home and display. You must be registered in the summer reading program in order to participate. Sign-up is required. The is a teen activity.
Children’s Summer Reading Program
The children’s summer reading
program has begun. The theme for this summer is “Color Our World.” The program runs through July 18. Registration is going on now, with lots of fun activities planned. Kids who are enrolled in the program can earn points for prizes and participate in weekly activities at the library. It is open to those who have a valid Akron Public Library card and who are between the ages of 3-18.
Sidewalk Chalk
Obstacle Course
Participants can stop by the library any time of day and test out skills on their skills on the children’s sidewalk chalk obstacle course. Be sure to sign up for the summer reading program if you haven’t already done so. This is a children’s activity.
Second Season Fitness
“Second Seasons Fitness” is every Thursday at the library. Due to the summer reading program activities in June, classes will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday only. There are chair exercises and a gentle cardio workout program for those ages 50 and older.
Rochester spring sports update —
Softball loses to Rossville at regional
Softball Rochester sophomore pitcher Bria Rensberger had eight games this year that she won while allowing five hits or fewer.
By VAL TSOUTSOURIS Sports Editor, RTC
So it might have come as a shock when host Rossville had five hits in a row off Rensberger in a seven-run third inning in a Class 2A regional Tuesday, June 3.
By the time the inning was over, Rossville had a nine-run lead, and they cruised home with a 9-2 win.
Jadyn Field went 2 for 2 with a double, a triple and a sacrifice fly for Rochester, who finished 21-5. Aubrey Wilson and Darah Strasser had one hit each.
Rochester has not won a regional since 2012.
Afterwards, young players from the Rochester Softball League, they were given the night off so they could make the road trip for the regional, lined up outside the dugout and formed a tunnel to thank their heroes in spite of the loss.
Strasser created Rochester’s first run in the fifth when she hit an opposite-field double down the left field line, stole third and scored when the throw to try and get her rolled into left field for an error.
Wilson led off the sixth with an infield single, went to second on Rensberger’s sacrifice bunt, went to third on a wild pitch and scored on Field’s fly to center.
Meanwhile, Rensberger faced 10 batters, just one over the minimum, in innings 4-6.
“Credit Bria,” Coleman said. “She bared down like she has all year and finished off the last three innings. She was really solid.”
Boys golf
Like his older brother Reece, Davis Renie has golfed for Rochester.
But while Reece Renie had a lifetime’s worth of experience by the time he became a Zebra, which led him to being the 2021 section-
al medalist, Davis only started playing golf twoand-a-half years ago.
Davis showed what a fast learner he was last year when he helped the Zebras team finish second at the sectional and advance to the regional.
This time, he is going to regional as an individual after shooting a 78 at the Logansport sectional at Dykeman Park Golf Course Friday, June 6. The top three individuals on non-advancing teams advanced to the regional, and Renie was second among that group.
Renie will tee off at 9:20 a.m. Eastern Thursday from the front nine at Sandy Pines Golf Club in DeMotte for the regional.
As a team, Rochester shot a 330 and finished fourth. Pioneer also shot a 330 and took third based on the fifth player’s score tiebreaker. Logansport won with a 298, and Twin Lakes was second with a 299.
While Renie was reflective on his sudden success afterwards, he also pondered where he could have snipped a stroke off his score so his teammates could go with him.
Renie’s round included three birdies, seven bogeys and two double bogeys. He birdied the par-3 third hole, which at 135 yards is the shortest hole on the course; the long, straight par-5 11th hole; and the par-5 18th, where he sunk a 20-foot birdie putt.
“Well I would like to say I’m happy, but I’m really not,” Renie said just before heading off to school for his graduation ceremony. “Because going back on those last couple holes, I did a lot of dumb things that could have easily been fixed, and we could’ve have
P ublic A uctions
Plymouth Rockies Football Online Fundraising Auction
Bidding open until Thursday, June 12. Pickup located at 507 E. Jefferson St., Plymouth. Gift baskets, gift cards, parking passes, Plymouth Rockies apparel. Oak Crest Auctions, oakcrestauctions.com.
Real Estate And
Personal Property Auction
10 a.m. Saturday, June 14. Located at 3488 South Wabash Road, Rochester. House and mini-farm on 4.4 acres. Household items, guns, lawn and shop tools. Ball Auction and Realty, ballrealtygroup.com.
Elaine Mora
Personal Property Auction
10 a.m. Saturday, June 14. Located at 537 W. Eighth St., Rochester. Cargo van, Native American items, furniture, household items, tools. Manitou Realty and Auction, manitourealty.com.
easily made it as a team if it was just for one more shot.”
Track
Rochester senior Audrey Wagner placed 18th in the 300 hurdles in 46.09 seconds at the IHSAA girls track state finals at North Central High School in Indianapolis Saturday, June 7.
Running in the second of three heats, Wagner’s time was 0.76 seconds off her school record time that she ran at the Warsaw regional May 27.
Wagner made state in an event in which she had only been competing for two years. She had never broken 48 seconds prior to this year. She won the Three Rivers Conference title in 46.84 seconds May 9 at Wabash and the sectional title in 46.53 seconds May 20 at Bremen.
Rochester junior Harrison Dunwoody finished 27th in the 110 hurdles at the IHSAA state finals at North Central High School in Indianapolis Friday, June 7.
Dunwoody was eliminated in the preliminary round after being timed in 15.36 seconds. Dunwoody ran a 15.31 at the Goshen regional May 29 to qualify for state. His personal best is 15.16 at the Plymouth sectional May 22.
Franklin Central’s Rylan Hainje had the fastest preliminary time in 13.78 seconds. He then went on to win the state title in 13.28 seconds.
Dunwoody was the only area athlete competing at the boys state finals.
Kepler Estate Auction
10 a.m. Saturday, June 14. Located at 10023 Quince Road, Plymouth. Tools, coins, guns, furniture and household items. Oak Crest Auctions, oakcrestauctions.com.
Online Equipment
And Vehicle Auction
Bidding open until 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 17. Pickup located at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Tractors, semis, farm, hay, and livestock equipment, vehicles, trailers, tools, boats, ATVs. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
Comic Book Collection
Online Auction
Bidding open until Wednesday, June 18. Pickup located in Plymouth. Oak Crest Auctions, oakcrestauctions.com.
Former Wilson Farm Auction
6 p.m. Tuesday, June 25. Located at 17882 14th Road, Culver. Eightythree acres irrigated bare land, 70 acres tillable. Hahn Auctioneers, hahnrealtyandauction.com.
DAVIS RENIE
JADYN FIELD
Our Office 617 Main Street, Rochester, IN 46975 Phone 574-223-5417, Fax 574-223-8330
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…12-DANBURY MINT SHIRLEY TEMPLE DOLLS, CARNIVAL GLASS, GREEN & PINK DEP. GLASS, HULL ART VASE, 2-GLASS CAKE PEDESTALS, BLUE SWIRL PORCELAIN BOWL, **OVER 100 PCS. LONGABERGER DINNERWARE & ASST. ACCESSORIES-BLUEGREEN-PAPRIKA-CMAS, OVER 30 LONGABERGER BASKETS, **2-SETS STERLING SILVER CANDLE HOLDERS, NICE OLD DETECTO GRAM COUNTER SCALE W/ALL COUNTER WEIGHTS, VERY NICE KIRBY SENTRA VAC W/ ATTACHMENTS, AFGHANS, LOTS OF PICTURES-PRINTS-MIRRORS, LARGE BATT. OP. WALL CLOCK ...MORE.
FURNITURE VERY NICE GLASSTOP-METAL FRAME PATIO TABLE W/6CHAIRS, MODERN OAK 48” ROUND DINING TABLE W/4 CHAIRS-1 LEAF, MAPLE DESK, OAK SHELF, DRESSERS, ARMOIRE, MODERN TV STAND W/ STORAGE, ELEC. WATER COOLER, NEAT FOLD UP UTILITY CART, 4-OLDER SINGER SEWING MACHINES-ALL WORK-1 IN CABINET, MISC. AREA/THROW RUGS, 1-GRAY 6’X10’ W/PADDING, 7-1/2’ FLOOR MODEL SHOWCASE W/REAR SLIDING DOORS, LARGE 2 PC. DRESSER, MORE.
TO SELL OUTSIDE AT 5:45 NICE RUNNING/WORKING COMM. TURF X LIQUID/ GRANULE FERTILIZER SPREADER-HONDA GAS ENGINE-RIDE ON SULKY-2 SPEED W/REVERSE, NICE STIHL FS 56RC & HUSQVARNA 323L STRAIGHT SHAFT WEED TRIMMERS-START & RUN, YARD MACHINE GAS 123CC SNOW BLOWER-STARTS & RUNS, SCOTT PULL BEHIND POLYVINYL BROADCASTER, NICE PINK HUFFY LADIES BICYCLE. GUY STUFF OLD METAL CRAFTSMAN MACHINIST BOX W/KEY, WOOD DUCK HOUSE, 2-OWL DECOYS, LAWN TRACTOR SEAT, RATCHET STRAPS, 2 COME-ALONGS, DBL. WHEEL BENCH GRINDER, MARANTZ ST-71 TUNER PM71AMP, CANES, ADV. YARD STICKS, 2-OLD MOBILE & 1 SINCLAIR OUTBOARD MOTOR OIL CANS, 6-SINKER MOLDS, LADLES, 2 FORGE TONGS, ASST. HAND & POWER TOOLS, COPPER POWDER FLASK MARKED US, ELEC. COKE WALL CLOCK, SET OF 6 CRAFTSMAN WOOD LATHE KNIVES, VERY NICE SET OF 12 IRWIN WOOD DRILL BITS IN WOOD BOX, APPROX. 100 OLD RCA-GE & OTHER OLD RADIO TUBES, MORE OF THE NEW NYLON CARRY BAGS-ASST. SIZES, 2-METAL SAFETY GAS CANS, 6-ROLLS 1” & 2-ROLLS 4” FIRE HOSE, 9-SCBA OXYGEN MASK ONLY, 6-BACK PACK SCBA OXYGEN TANK CARRIERS. BOX LOTS SEWING MATERIAL-McCALLS & SIMPLICITY SEWING PATTERNS-COOKWARE-VCR TAPES-DVD’S-MISC. GLASSWARE. VERY CONDENSED LISTING ... VIEW PICTURES & UP-DATES AT WWW.GOTOAUCTION.COM I.D. # 6381 OR TEDS AUCTION CENTER ON FACEBOOK TERMS: CASH - GOOD CHECK W/ I.D. VISA/MASTER/DEBIT W/3% CONVENIENCE FEE ***WE ARE A NO RESERVE — NO BUYERS PREMIUM AUCTION*** ALL SALES FINAL . . . NO GUARANTEES OF ANY KIND!
AS PROVIDED BY THE AMERICAN DISIBILITY ACT TEDS AUCTION CENTER AC31400065 PHONE . . .574-936-SALE (7253) COL. DARRELL PITTS AU10300102 TED ANNIS AU08900148 COL.
Lukens enjoys serving others as Fulton County Chamber director
By LEAH SANDER Staff Writer
Tiffany Lukens said she’s happy to serve others as the new Fulton County Chamber of Commerce executive director.
“I have a servant heart, so I just feel like this is an awesome way for me to serve the community in several different aspects,” she said.
Lukens, who lives between Akron and Rochester, assumed her role in April. Previous Executive Director Jillian Smith had left the job to take a position with the Northern Indiana Community Foundation.
Lukens grew up in Rochester and graduated from Rochester High School.
She obtained her bachelor’s degree in general studies from Indiana University Kokomo, with minors in business and math.
While in college, she worked at The Winning Edge in Rochester and started as executive assistant at the Fulton County Chamber in 2012.
She held that later role until 2014, when she became executive assistant at the Fulton Economic Development Corp.
Lukens was FEDCO executive
assistant until 2021, when she became FEDCO Interim Director following the resignation of FEDCO Executive Director Terry Lee.
Lukens also worked as the Rochester Iron and Metal marketing manager and Lighthouse Autism Center’s clinical administrator in Winona Lake.
As chamber executive director, her tasks include “meeting business owners (and) offering educational things for them when we can,” she said.
Lukens said she enjoys honoring businesses through the chamber’s Member of the Month program. As chamber executive director, she also serves on the Fulton County Leadership Academy board.
“I’m excited to step into that role when we get up and going for the next year,” she said.
She said she’s also happy to be involved with the Rochester Downtown Partnership and Fulton County Tourism Commission.
Lukens said one change the chamber will make is keeping its annual awards event a luncheon instead of a dinner “more often or a few more times before going back to (having it on a) Saturday night.”
TIFFANY LUKENS
She said she’s not going to make any major changes at least right away though.
“Jillian has done a great job in laying out the framework, and that’s been great having her still here,” said Lukens. “She’s been awesome (and) answers all my random questions that come up.”
Lukens said her favorite part of the job is interacting with the chamber members and “seeing what they need from us.”
“I think in a lot of nonprofits, you get to serve your community in some sort of way,” she said. “Nonprofit work is often thankless, but ... just looking back from when I first started at the chamber or even FEDCO years ago to
where we are now ... (I see) the changes in the community.”
Lukens has been married to Gus Lukens for two years. They have a son, Holden, who was born in December 2024.
They also have several pets.
In her spare time, Lukens serves on the Fulton County Soccer Association board and helps
Gus run Lukens Livestock Consulting.
“We place pigs with kids and work with them through the spring and summer for showing,” she said. “We’re both involved with Fulton County Pork Producers.”
She also enjoys reading, gardening and taking walks.
Local students named to dean’s list
The following local students were recently named to the dean’s list of their respective colleges/universities: Indiana University Kokomo Macy — Parker Johnson, Brandon Thomas Maish and Lauren Neff. Rochester — Jared Matthew Frazier, Ethan Ryan Huskins,
Andrea Kauffman, Paul Leasure, Ashley Mojica, Gabriel Joseph Scorsone, Emma Stinson and William Evan Van Heyningen.
Winamac — Olivia Boisselier, Brenna M. Day, Krista E. Despot, Lauren E. Fredel, Kendal Elizabeth Johnson and Matthew Raymond Kletz.
Local students earn degrees
The following local students have recently earned degrees from their respective colleges/ universities: Trine University Akron — Shane Wood, ma-
joring in computer engineering. Rochester — Wade Shafer, majoring in health and physical education; Brianna Yarber, majoring in criminal justice-BS.
