By TRACEY RUCKMAN Guest Writer
Fulton County’s township trustees play a vital role in serving the county’s eight townships - Aubbeenaubbee, Henry, Liberty, Newcastle, Richland, Rochester, Union and Wayne. Each township has its own elected trustee and a small advisory board.
Trustees serve four-year terms with no limit on how many times they can be re-elected, and some have remained in office for decades - one Fulton County trustee served more than 30 years.
Township trustees are a frontline layer of local government, handling social services and community oversight. Their main
Please join us on Giving Tuesday as we celebrate the difference your dollars make in the community!
December 2, 2025
10:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Catered lunch 11-2 FCCF Office 227 E 9th St., Rochester Can’t make it in person? Participate online at www.nicf.org
duty is administering township assistance, including emergency help with rent, utilities and burials.
They also maintain abandoned cemeteries, manage fire protection services, and address local concerns such as fencing disputes or property complaints.
Trustees are often the first point of contact for residents seeking help or guidance.
In addition, trustees manage annual capital improvement projects. It is a trustee’s long-term plan for funding and managing major investments - such as new construction, renovations, or upgrades to public facilities, infrastructure and equipment.
Funding comes from portions of county property, federal income and civic taxes, with each service supported by its own fund.
The township assistance fund covers emergency rent and utility aid, while the
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By LAURIE LECHLITNER Staff Writer
“I want our guests to feel good about themselves when they visit our boutique - even a bit pampered,” said Pam Romine. “We specialize in personalized shopping, offering a friendly face and help in clothing selection while in the dressing room. When a customer leaves, they’ve got a pretty package in hand, some gift wrapped.” Romine is the owner of Flirt Boutique, Rochester.
“I’ve owned the boutique for three years, but it’s been around for over 20 years. I bought it from Caitlin Rich, who owned it for two years. Treva Mulligan was the founder, who owned it for 17½ years. It’s a landmark in the area. I remember how special I felt when I was visiting. I want our guests to feel the same way whether they buy anything or not.”
Romine retired from her job as a dental hygienist at 60. “I’d worked in that area for 40 years and really enjoyed dealing with the public. My son, Brice, is also in business and had recently bought Jarrety’s Place in Rochester when the opportunity to buy the boutique became available. I thought it would be a good fit for me.”
She has found that owning a business requires a person to wear many hats. “We have to be good managers of people, time and inventory. I go to a lot of shows, some in Chicago. I have to see the big picture, previewing
inventory six months ahead of the next season.”
Through the years, Romine has learned a lot about inventory control. “We need to know what sells in the area. For example, we have many lakes here. But we are not a coastal community. Things with dolphins or seashells on them, or sunscreen products year-round will not sell here. In Florida or sunny California, they are the rage. Instead, our rural communities decorate with classic country, rustic cottage and lake decor.”
Romine loves the five ladies who work for her. “My sister Debbie Lee is a wonderful decorator of our home department. She also attends shows with me. My cousin Merlee Bigler is a master merchandiser. She’s been in the boutique business for 20 years and has worked at Flirt before I owned it. Maryanne Moore is always a big help. She’s our greatest organizer. Our new employee, Journey Sylvain, brings youth and energy to our organization.
Jerri Robinson, our Saturday girl, is great with people and excellent at sales management.”
Being a boss is the hardest part of Romine’s job, as well as competition in the retail indus-
try. “I do not like conflict and want everyone to get along. That’s why I highly value our staff members. We work well together.”
Romine realizes that when businesses work together in a community, that community is stronger. “When we compete and backbite, sometimes the town dies out. Our community of Rochester is strong, filled with people who stick together through joy and sorrow. We help one another.”
Romine met her husband Brian at Tippecanoe School. “After we were married, we resided in Rochester 22 years, moving to Kosciusko County after the kids were grown.” They have two grown children and six granddaughters, ranging in ages from 7 to 4½ months.
“God placed me in business to make a difference in the community. When people are having a bad day, we work together to lift their spirits.”
fire-
Continued from page 1 revenue that supports trustee budgets, sharply reducing the resources available to help residents in need.
Transparency and accountability are central to a trustee’s role. Trustees meet with their advisory board to review ledgers and bank statements and make sure the budgets for each allocated fund are balanced and accounted for.
Once approved, the documents are signed and submitted to the state. As of July 1, townships are required to record and post its meetings online.
would like to have a community building for Rochester townshipa space for public meetings, cooking classes, budgeting workshops and offices for partner agencies.
Tyler works with United Ministries and other nonprofits to stretch limited funds. Each group can provide up to $800 in monthly rent aid per household, and together they can often help families avoid eviction.
says the need for assistance is still significant.
“I believe township government is one of the most important pieces of local government. It is in place to make sure the needs of their neighbors are being met,” Leininger said. Like Tyler, she often works with churches and nonprofits to help residents who don’t qualify for township aid.
Contact Information
Newcastle township meetings take place at the community building in Talma. Leininger can be reached at (574) 328-1370.
Rochester township is the largest in the county and the trustee is Jayne Tyler. She was appointed in May 2011 to replace a retiring trustee, then later elected to the position. She plans to run for another four-year term next year.
“I still have things I want to do,” she said.
Among those is the next capital improvement project plan. Tyler
“I want to spend taxpayer money the right way,” she said. “There’s nothing shameful about needing help. We’re here for people when life takes a turn. That’s what being a trustee is all about. If you can make where you live a little better by helping people, that’s always a good thing.”
She also maintains three abandoned cemeteries: Shelton, Antioch and Burton. All the headstones have recently been refurbished, and she is working on new fencing, signs and flagpoles. She is also responsible for hiring a groundskeeper to maintain the cemeteries from April through October.
Her latest endeavor is collaborating with The Daughters of the American Revolution to recognize the Shelton Cemetery, which includes the grave of a Revolutionary War veteran, as a historic site.
Conversely, Newcastle Township is smaller, but Trustee Megihann Leininger, elected in 2022,
Rochester Township Trustee Jayne Tyler’s office is located at 126 E. Seventh St., Rochester, and is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday; 1-5 p.m. Wednesday; and 9-11 a.m. Friday. She can be reached at (574) 223-3258 or by emailing rochestertt@gmail.com.
Aubbeenaubbee: Bonnie Pyle, (574) 242-4323.
Henry: Lisa Paxton, (260) 5781196.
Liberty: Adam Strasser, (574) 601-2378.
Richland: Melinda Clinger, (574) 223-4436.
Union: Tammi Powell, (574) 653-2305.
Wayne: Peggy Dague, (574) 8170637.
If you’d like to learn more about township budgets and annual reports visit, gateway.ifionline.org.
Good Neighbors is a column in which readers share friendly advice. To ask or answer questions, write the Shopping Guide News, 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 those seeking advice, not for items you can find in a local store or sell through a classified ad. This column runs every other week.
Rat terriers
Good neighbors: Two small black male rat terriers, very friendly and playful. Free to a good home. Call (574) 345-1506 and leave a message. Used recliner
Good neighbors: We have a good, used recliner for a small person (electric lift chair). If interested, call (574) 831-4468.
Used stamps
Good neighbors: A 12-year-old girl is collecting used stamps. Please send them to Dena Slabaugh, 9515 W. 1350N, Nappanee, IN 46550. Free roosters
Good neighbors: Four young roosters born
July 3, 2025, free. Call (574) 549-0481 and leave a message.
Yarn — I would like any yarn you no longer want. Call (574) 831-4468.
Pampered Chef tower — Wanted: Pampered Chef shimmering adjustable tiered tower. I need the metal screws to assemble plates, and I can only read the last three numbers on the box: 958. I also need heart and hexagon separator plates from Wilton and crystal Splendor plates. Call (574) 907-4185.
Half-gallon jugs — Looking for old half-gallon glass juice jugs with lids. Call (574) 862-3909.
By THE REV. RON PURKEY
(Read Psalm 100:15) “Be (anxious) for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which (surpasses) all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).
First, “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands” (Psalm 100:1). Let the whole earth shout triumphantly to God! In the Bible, worship is not some sedate event. People are to engage in it with a sense of excitement.
You can’t worship the Lord without your emotions. It is no mere intellectual exercise. Moreover, worship is for “the whole earth.” All peoples are invited to join the celebration. No one is left out.
Worship is all that we are responding to all that he is. It is the recognition of God for who he is, what he has done, and what we are trusting him to do.
Second, “Serve the Lord with gladness: Come before his presence with singing” (Psalm 100:2). The emphasis on emotions continues: Serve the Lord with gladness.
The sovereign God of the universe has invited you into his presence to serve him. How could anyone receive such a remarkable invitation with disinterest? Come before him with joyful songs is a reminder that no one would approach a human king,
president, or other ruler with an attitude of indifference. When we come before God, then, we shouldn’t slouch, but sing with gusto.
Third, “Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture” (Psalm 100:3). The Lord is God is a translation of the Hebrew phrase, “Yahweh is Elohim.” Yahweh is the name of God revealed in his covenant relationship with his people. Elohim speaks of power; he is the one who created the heavens and the earth. Thus, the powerful God wants a relationship with you and should be given recognition. He made us, after all, and we are his sheep. He is our creator and sustainer. He is the source of everything we need.
Fourth, “Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name” (Psalm 100:4). The
people in the psalmist’s day were commanded to enter his gates and courts. Though we do not go to a temple today, we are similarly commanded to enter into his presence.
What is the password for entrance? Thanksgiving and praise. No matter what your circumstances, give thanks to him and bless his name because there’s always a reason to thank God. And doing so will transform you.
Fifth, “For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endures to all generations” (Psalm 100:5). God is good and faithful. But, to experience his goodness and faithfulness, you must “taste and see that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34:8). So, worship him, trust him, and obey him. You won’t be disappointed.
Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines free at rcpbibleoutlines. com. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.
A women’s group has released scores for November euchre games.
Women’s Sunday Scores for the women’s Sunday group are: Claudia Hartzler/Pat Howell, 475; Carolyn Wagoner/Liz Robinson, 458; Jan Houlihan/Kathy Anderson, 422; Janelle Smith/Rhonda House, 402; Joyce Ginther/Janet Cox, 323; Charlotte Miller/Stephenia Barkman, 306; Carlene Musselman/Charlee Schwenk, 261; Karen Notz/Liz Kelsey, 251.
Women’s Monthly Scores for the women’s month-
ly group are: Claudia Hartzler/Pat Howe, 516; Charlotte Miller/Stephenia Barkman, 446; Joyce VanDoren/ Sue Brubaker, 436; Charlee Schwenk/Rhonda House, 434; Joyce Ginther/Janet Cox, 420; Judy Klobucher/Carol Shafer, 396; Diane Weaver-Gady/Wynne Wilson, 383; Karen Notz/Liz Kelsey, 357; Joyce Sroufe/Beth Nicodemus, 352; Janelle Smith/ Andi Schwarte, 339; Karmin Reeves/Karen Heltzel, 320; Kathy Anderson/Linda White, 288.
Dennis A. Alderfer
Dennis A. Alderfer, 64, Mentone, died Friday, Nov. 21, 2025, at Warsaw Meadows Care Center, Warsaw.
He was born on July 15, 1961.
DENNIS A. ALDERFER
He is survived by his daughters, Heather Bentley, Warsaw, and Tiffany Bentley, Mentone; son, James Alderfer, Arizona; 11 grandchildren; sisters, Becky Davis and Carol Alderfer, both of Florida; brother, David (Brenda) Alderfer, Mentone; and best friend, Dean Quier.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Danny; sister, Lisa Alderfer; brother-in-law, Calvin Davis; and sister-in-law, Kathy Alderfer.
A celebration of life service will be from 2–4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, in the Mentone Fire Station, 201 W. Main St., Mentone.
Arrangements have been entrusted to King Memorial Home, 101 N. Tucker St., Mentone.
Memorial contributions can be made to the funeral home to help with expenses.
Online condolences may be expressed at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.
Danny Joe Allen, 80, North Manchester, died at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025, at Peabody Retirement Community, North Manchester.
He was born on Jan. 6, 1945. On Dec. 10, 1974, he married Willodean Ruth Ault; who preceded him in death on Sept. 16, 2019.
He is survived by a sister, Sandy Hoagland, Warsaw; niece, Amy Allen, Goshen; nephews, Chad Allen, North Manchester, Brian Wood and Brent Wood, both of Claypool and Mike Hoagland, Warsaw; and several stepgrandchildren and stepgreat-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Robert Allen; stepson, Steve Ault; sister, Janice Wood; and nephew, David Hoagland.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Hartzler Funeral Home, 305 W. Rochester St., Akron.
Interment was in the Akron Cemetery, Akron, with military rites performed by the Fulton County Honor Guard.
Online condolences may be expressed at hartzlerfuneralservices.com.
Dedicated Bussinessman
Lendis B. (LB) Robinson, 96, Argos, passed away peacefully Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, fittingly on the opening day of gun season - his favorite day of the year and a tradition he cherished for nearly half a century.
LB was born in Newton County, Ark. on Nov. 6, 1929.
On Nov. 3, 1951, he married the love of his life, Joyce M. Meyers, and together they shared nearly 70 years with each other.
LB spent his life working hard and building a legacy defined by dedication, family, and a deep respect for the land. He spent many years in the timber business and owned businesses alongside his brother - Robinson Brothers Poultry and Robinson Brothers Philips 66 Service Station, Noblesville, the Big C Restaurant, Arcadia and Willow Lake Fishing Pond, Sheridan.
No matter the job, he approached work with quiet determination and a strong sense of pride.
At the age of 60, he built what would become his final home place - a beautiful, park-like setting complete with ponds he shaped stone by stone with his own hands. It was a landscape that reflected who he was: steadfast and committed to creating something that would last.
He loved his family above all else. His happiest moments were spent around the table, surrounded by his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, trading stories and laughter late into the night. He was a gifted storyteller - funny, sharp and full of the kind of memories that only a long life well-lived can hold.
Hunting, especially deer hunting and fishing, were some of his greatest joys. He continued going out until just three years ago, and the woods were truly his second home. The fact that he left this world on opening day feels like a quiet blessing and a final nod to a lifetime spent outdoors.
LB is survived by his daughter, Pam Ulch, Noblesville; son, Gary Robinson, (and his significant other, Mercedes Velo), Sebring, Fla.; son and daughter-in-law, Steve and Harvi Robinson, Argos; five grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren, soon to be seven.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife of 70 years, Joyce Robinson; five brothers, Coy, Raymond, Roy, Homer and Remmel; and a sister, Ruth.
He leaves behind a family who loved him deeply and who will forever hold his stories, his lessons, and his unwavering strength close to their hearts.
He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on - in the land he shaped, the stories he told and the family he loved so fiercely.
A celebration of life service was held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at the Robinson residence, 7530 20th Road, Argos.
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Circuit Court, Judge Arthur Christopher Lee presiding: Complaints
Jefferson Capital Systems, LLC v. Jaclyn Ricker, Rochester, $2,115.15
Midland Credit Management, INC v. Kenyatta Dobbins, Rochester, $2,576.75
Superior Court
The following petitions have been filed in Fulton Superior Court, Judge Gregory L. Heller presiding: Complaint
BCG Equities, LLC v. Haley York, Rochester, $1,011.65
DBC Holdings, LLC v. Sarah North, Kewanna, $10,188.41
Galaxy International Purchasing LLC v. Chase Mussleman, Kewanna, $11,671.41
LVNV Funding LLC v. Fred Shepherd, Rochester, $1,548.88
Traffic Violations
The following fines and levies were paid in Fulton County courts: Driving while suspended — Verna Lehning, Valparaiso, $164.50; Eddie Tyler, Fishers, $164.50
Driving while suspended, speeding — Jericho Richter, Beaverton, Ore., $189.50
Improper display of license plate-not placed in proper spot, failure to use red flag or cloth with projecting load, operating a CMV without periodic inspection — Jedrick Miller, Goshen, $209.50
Failure of occupant to use a safety belt, speeding — William Hassenplug, Culver, $200
Failure to signal turn — Carlos Cortez-Ramos, Rochester, $164.50 Learners permit violation — Sabrina Bukowski, South Bend, $164.50
No valid driver’s license — Eliuth Trejo Juarez II, Plant City, Fla., $179.50
Operating with expired plates — Uvaldo Gutierrez-Aca, Claypool, $164; Addison Wilson, Peru, $164.00
Passing a stopped school bus when stop arm is out and activated — Lillian Gerald, Rochester, $389.50
Speeding — Davrous Clay, Anderson, $154.50; Sara Miller, Winamac, $175; Cordell McNamee, South Bend, $154.50; Allen Minton, Louisville, Ky., $164.50; Brian Evetts, Dixon Springs, Tenn., $154.50; Samuel Fujawa, North Liberty, $154.50; Corondo Escobedo Jr., South Bend, $154.50; David Castillo, Rochester, $164.50; Gabriel Nyenka, Minneapolis, Minn., $164.50; Natalie Spoerle, Carmel, $154.50; Conrad Jacobs, Carmel, $154.50; Mallie Stidham, Rochester, $154.50; Ava Griffo, Indianapolis, $164.50; Regina Sutton, Rochester, $154.50; Adrian Bryant, Westfield, $164.50; Jennifer Ceran, Loudon, Tenn., $154.50; Alyson Dashner, Cincinnati, Ohio, $164.50; Lynette Bowman, Plymouth, $154.50; Andrew Zellers, $164.50; Billy Franklin, Traverse City, Mich., $175; Susan Turner, Rochester, $175
The following couples have filed for marriage dissolutions in Fulton County courts: Gaines — Joshua Gaines, Rochester,
The following are accidents and incidents investigated by the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office during the past week: Accidents
4:15 a.m. Monday, Nov. 24, East Division Road and CR 825E, Akron. Driver: Ellen Ferrell, 64, Rochester. Hit deer.
9 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, SR 17 and CR 700N, Culver. Driver: Hemi Stone, 22, Hanna. Hit deer.
7:50 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, CR 700N and CR 775E, Rochester. Driver: MaKeenzie Norris, 27, Mentone. Hit deer.
6:17 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, SR 110 and CR 800W, Culver. Driver: Anthony Humes, 24, Rochester. Hit deer.
10:28 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, CR 700E and East Division Road, Rochester. Driver: Courtney Melton, 31, Rochester.
9:24 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, SR 110 and US 31, Argos. Driver: Franklin Carpenters, 77, Rockford. Hit deer.
7:54 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, CR 600W, Rochester. Driver: Jason Poor, 50, Plymouth.
6:42 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, SR 14 and East Division Road, Akron. Driver: Casey Lane, 44, North Manchester.
6:11 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21,SR 110 and CR 350W, Rochester. Driver: Kyle Nelson, 22, Rochester. Hit deer.
6:54 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, SR 25 and CR 775E, Rochester. Driver: Andrew Corn, 28, Rochester. Hit deer.
6:19 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, SR 14, Rochester. Driver: Tammy Barnhart, 62, Akron. Hit deer.
1:53 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, East Ninth Street, Rochester. Driver: Terry Sheetz, 60, Fulton. Sheetz suffered a medical problem, causing his vehicle to hit a building.
11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, US 41 and South Wabash Road, Rochester. Driver: Leo Bocko, 57, Bourbon. Hit deer.
8:06 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, SR 25 and CR 700S, Rochester. Driver: Jordanna Dishner-Rush, 31, Logansport. Hit deer.
Incidents
6:19 a.m. Monday, Nov. 24, 1300 block Lucas Street, Rochester. A theft of a large number of tools was reported.
10:31 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, Maplewood Lane and Heritage Drive, Rochester. A report of a truck ripping through the area was received. Police checked the area and could not locate the vehicle.
6:51 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, US 31 and Wabash Road, Rochester. A Mustang was reported being driven with no lights on. Police had spoken with the driver earlier and advised him there were gas stations in town where he could work on the headlight issue. Police located the driver, who reported he stopped into AutoZone to get a new battery.
7:22 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, US 31 and CR 1250N, Macey. A disabled vehicle was reported on the highway. Police learned the driver had pulled over on the highway taking a nap. The driver was told there was a truck stop a couple miles north and will be en route there.
6:37 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, 2000 block Sweetgum Road, Rochester. A mother came to the sheriff’s office to report her daughter reported she was touched inapproprately.
6:13 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, East 14th Street and Monroe Street, Rochester. A fight between juveniles was reported.
6:01 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, 2100 Peace Tree Village, Rochester. An individual was seen putting merchandise in his pocket then leaving the business.
12:08 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, 1400 block East Ninth Street. A caller asked if someone could take him home from the hospital.
11:49 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, 100 block SR 110, Rochester. A cow was reported on the side of the road, near
the fence. It was noted by the officer that the cow was not nice. He got behind it and used his sirens to scare it further off the roadway.
5:46 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, 200 block Main Street, Rochester. A theft was reported in the city limits.
2:37 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, 2000 block Sweetgum Road, Rochester. Sexual abuse was reported.
4:20 a.m. Friday, Nov. 21, 4900 block East Wood Drive, Rochester. Police were notified that a person sold his truck without permission. Police spoke to the caller and told him it was the same situation as a month ago and was a civil matter. The man did not like the answer and hung up.
3:53 a.m. Friday, Nov. 21, 2000 block Sweetgum Road, Rochester. An individual came to the sheriff’s office to report being harassed by another individual and wished to speak to an officer about pressing charges. The other party also called and reported being harassed and receiving threatening text messages. Both were told how to get protection orders and were told to stop engaging in arguments over the phone. They were also told how to block each other.
2:09 a.m. Friday, Nov. 21, 2000 block Sweetgum Road, Rochester. Police were notified of child abuse.
7:55 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, 6600 block SR 14, Rochester. Police were notified of a vehicle with four people pulled into the cemetery. When someone else pulled in, they turned their headlights off. Authorities received a call from the people at the cemetery who stated everything was fine; they were visiting a loved one.
4:32 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, 2800 block CR 400W, Rochester. A homeowner requested to speak to an officer about an occupant at their home bringing another person home and whether they were required to allow the visitor to be there. Police spoke to the caller and explained their options.
4:22 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, 200 block Fulton Avenue, Rochester. A man reported hearing someone yelling for help, possibly from the cemetery area. Officers spoke with an individual in the area who said he was yelling for his dogs that were loose. The officer could not locate anyone yelling for help.
3:58 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, Old US 31 and East Lucas Street, Rochester. A caller reported corn in the roadway at the corner and was concerned it was a hazard. An officer checked and found about one cup of corn spilled. It was not a road hazard.
6:07 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, SR 14 and CR 1100W, Kewanna. A caller complained there was a vehicle pulling a trailer with no lights on.
4:46 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, US 31 and CR 700N, Rochester. Police were notified there was a wide load with no signs and it was driving recklessly. An officer located the semitractor-trailer and followed it, observing no issues.
4:15 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2000 block Sweetgum Road, Rochester. A lost or stolen license plate was reported.
2:47 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, Zebra Lane and Park Road, Rochester. Police were notified of a possible shoplifter with a cart full of groceries. A description was given. Police located the individual and made an arrest.
10:18 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, 12000 block CR 400S, Akron. A caller wanted to report harassment that occurred at a business.
3:12 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, 300 block Rochester Crossing Drive, Rochester. A caller reported running out of gas on US 31 and walking to a gas station to get gas. The caller wanted to know if someone could give her a ride back to her vehicle. Officers responded to assist.
9:22 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, US 31 and South Wabash Road, Rochester. A disabled vehicle was reported. State officials said they were out with the vehicle about an hour prior and it was
unoccupied. A county officer reported the vehicle was still unoccupied and had its flashers on. It was not a road hazard.
8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, 1700 block Old US 31, Rochester. A stoparm violation was reported.
10:19 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, 1700 block SR 110, Rochester. A cow was reported in the roadway, but the caller was able to get it back into a field where he believed it belonged.
7:10 p.m. Monday, Nov. 17, 6200 block CR 1100W, Rochester. A property owner notified police of a neighbor flying a drone around a family mem-
ber who was hunting in a tree stand on their property. The drone operator was on another property. The caller wanted an officer to explain drone laws and whether it was legal. The caller was advised of legal options pertaining to the drone and advised to contact DNR, as drones are illegal to use during hunting season.
6:56 p.m. Monday, Nov. 17, CR 100W and CR 375N, Rochester. Police were alerted to two people riding bicycles down the middle of the road. Police spoke to the bicyclists, who were on the side of the road and had lights on their bicycles and trailer.
6:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 17, 2300 block Main Street, Rochester. A driver hit a parked vehicle and left the scene. A description of the fleeing motorist was given. A state trooper stopped the vehicle. The driver was a juvenile. The officer explained to the driver that she needed to contact authorities or the owner of the other vehicle.
4:13 p.m. Monday, Nov. 17, 400 block Westwood Lane, Rochester. A parent reported their child was physically assaulted and threatened at the high school. The student was grabbed by the neck.
AMERICAN LEGION COMMANDER — American Legion Post 36 Commander, Rob Beckman, delivers opening remarks during the Veterans Day Ceremony held Tuesday, Nov. 11, outside the Fulton County Courthouse.
The following people were booked in the Fulton County Jail during the past week:
Nov. 24 – Brandon James Capps, 22, 652 Northgate Circle, Rochester, booked for reckless driving. Released on his own recognizance.
Nov. 22 – Luisa Castillo De Perez, 36, 3454 Highfield Court, Indianapolis, booked for operating a vehicle without ever obtaining a license. Released on her own recognizance.
Nov. 22 – Dana Aleta Looney, 46, 4684 N. SR 25, Lot 29, Rochester, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Bond: $200 cash.
Nov. 21 – Richard Keith Lazur, 39, 5501 S. 1100W, Westville, booked on a warrant for dealing cocaine. Bond: $50,000 surety.
Nov. 21 – Alfredo Barrientoz, 56, 2944 W. 900N, Macy, booked for operating a vehicle while intoxicated with prior and driving while suspended with prior. Bond: $2,500 surety or $500 cash.
Nov. 20 – Yanique Simone Smith, 33, 4910 Hawthorn Terrace, Apt. D, Indianapolis, booked for possession of a Schedule I controlled substance, possession of marijuana and operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Released on her own recognizance.
Nov. 20 – Dennis Gordon Minix, 70, 1014 Fulton Ave., Rochester, booked on a warrant for revoked pretrial agreement on a charge of dealing meth. No bond.
Nov. 20 – Juliet Janet Francis, 34, 4910 Hawthorn Terrace, Apt. D, Indianapolis, booked for possession of
a Schedule I controlled substance and possession of marijuana. Released on her own recognizance.
Nov. 19 – Santos F. Duran, 70, 7493 Liberty Ave., Fulton, booked as a habitual traffic violator. No bond.
Nov. 19 – Scott Eugene Hatton, 46, 207 W. Brown St., Fulton, booked on a warrant from Kosciusko County.
Nov. 19 – Jessica Chirie Langley, 32, 420 Northgate Circle, Rochester, booked for possession of stolen property. Bond: $2,500 surety or $500 cash.
Nov. 19 – Bradley Joel Reed, 33, 401 N. Morgan St., Mentone, booked on a warrant for non-support. Bond: $470 cash.
Nov. 18 – Daniel Jacob Corlis, 32, 311 Northwood Drive, Akron, booked for two counts of possession of methamphetamine, possession of paraphernalia and operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Bond: $2,500 surety or $500 cash.
Nov. 18 – John David Hall, 37, 4903 N. 750W, Rochester, booked on a warrant for probation violation on a charge of habitual traffic violator. No bond.
Nov. 18 – Derrick Yahya, 22, 2102 Prairie Ave., South Bend, booked on a warrant for failure to appear on a charge of operating a vehicle while intoxicated. No bond.
Nov. 18 – Michael Allen Kneece Jr., 39, homeless, booked on a warrant for non-support. Bond: $1,200 cash.
Nov. 17 – John Vincent Cavurro, 42, 729 S. 24th St., South Bend, booked on a warrant from Kosciusko County. Hold for Kosciusko County.
By LILLI DWYER Staff Writer
When Helen Burden lost her father to suicide two years ago, she knew she never wanted another family to lack support the way she did.
“I had to clean up by myself, I had nobody to help me, there was nothing here in Fulton County to help. ... I thought to myself, my dad loved people, he never met a stranger. I wanted to get something going to help others, so these families don’t have to go through what I went through,” she said.
Now, she is acting as a fundraiser, seeking donations and volunteers to support the Fulton County County Suicide Task Force.
Founded in 2024, Fulton County Suicide Task Force is a nonprofit providing services for families affected by suicide and education on suicide prevention.
One of the most emotionally and financially difficult aspects for a family to deal with, Burden said, is cleaning up the scene afterward.
“I called a cleanup place in Plymouth, and they wanted $2,000 to come and clean. I didn’t have that, my dad had no insurance,” she recalled.
Burden is currently involved in efforts to get the Fulton County Board of Health to provide post-suicide clean up. Since it requires training, Burden said, she and her team are not able to do it themselves.
“We can hire somebody out, but that requires funds,” she said. “Everything that we can get will help.”
Any donations made to the task force go to services like these.
The organization also makes gift baskets for families affected by suicide, and provides support for things they may need, like clothing
for a funeral or food in the aftermath of their loss.
Burden works with a team of five, but volunteers are needed to help out with the task force’s activities.
Fulton County Suicide Task Force is partnered with 4C Health, which gives free training in the Question, Persuade, Refer method of suicide prevention.
Burden received her own training certificate in April.
“We want them to know the signs,” she said of providing prevention education. “If you see any signs, come in and talk to us. Give us a call, we’ll be there.”
Anyone interested in receiving QPR training can call the task force.
“All I have to do is get a group of five, and 4C will come out and the training,” Burden explained.
4C has previously held training sessions with police, fire and EMS services, as well as at the Fulton County Public Library.
In the future, Fulton County Suicide Task Force will also be taking part in the Guns and Hoses fundraiser at 9 a.m. Saturday, June 27, in Fansler Park, 1307 Washington St., Rochester. The police, fire and EMS softball game will raise funds for the task force, as well as Fulton County Faith in the Fight and Joe’s Hope.
Fulton County Suicide Task Force currently has office space in St. John’s Lutheran Church, 404 Jefferson St., Rochester. Burden and her team are there by appointment.
If interested in seeking support, volunteering, donating, or undergoing QPR training, call (574) 2018009. The task force is also online at facebook.com/p/Fulton-CountyIN-Suicide-Task-Force.
4C provides a 24/7 crisis hotline at (800) 552-3106. For the Indiana crisis hotline, call 988.
The
in.us or call (574) 893-4113.
Second Seasons Fitness
At 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays is fitness awareness. Join for chair exercises on both days. The goal is to give adults a safe, convenient and effective way to build stamina, improve flexibility and balance while having fun moving their body. There will be no Second Seasons on Thursday, Dec. 23, 25 and 30, in observance of Christmas. There will also be no class on Thursday, Jan. 1.
Preschool Story Hour
“All About Animals” is at 10 a.m. Wednesdays. Children ages 3-6 years of age will have an hour of fun with Miss Nicole hearing stories, singing songs and making a craft. The last story hour class for the year will be on Wednesday, Dec. 17.
Elf Academy
During the month of December, kids are invited to participate in the library’s first “Elf Academy.”
Test your elf skills daily at different stations throughout the library.
The “Pop-In-Kins” will return on Dec. 1, and they will be hid-
ing out some place new each day. Will you be able to find them?
Each Monday has been declared “Merry Monday” throughout December. Kids can pick up a craft at the beginning of each week to complete at home.
Grinchmas Bingo
Join a family bingo event from 6:30-8 p.m Friday, Dec. 12. Come for the game, come for the noise, and come dressed in green or as who-girls and boys. Bring an ornament for each person participating in your family to be used as a prize
YA AMPLIFIED
YA AMPLIFIED will be held at
4 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17. Young adults in middle school and high school are welcome to attend this program at 4 p.m. on the third Wednesday of the month.
Rotating between cooking, crafting and games, ACPL is ready to engage with this age group through a variety of activities. This month there will be crafting with Alana and Aggie. Sign-up required.
Crafty Corner
There will be no Adult Crafty Corner in December due to when the holiday falls.
Holiday Closings
The library will be closed in
observance of the Christmas holiday Dec. 24-25.
Lego Club
Elementary kids can let their imagination run wild as they create and explore with Legos and Snap Circuits. This program begins at 4 p.m. Monday, Dec. 29 and lasts approximately one hour. Kids can create something uniquely their own that tells a story all the while building confidence through creativity and with friends.
Holiday Closings
The library will be closed in observance of New Year’s Day, Dec. 31 through Jan. 1.
RHS BOYS’ WRESTLING Those on the Rochester High School boys’ wrestling team are shown. In front from left are Jacob Pierce, Gavin Pinder, Ethan Bailey, Nevan Goodman, JJ Velez, Carlisle Clark and Lucas Dyson. Second row: Elliot Miller, Layne Horn, Brant Beck, Kale Shotts, Grant Holloway, Ayden Smith, Braxton Hester and Gabe Cowles. Third row: Trevor Coplen, Derek Wortley, Tanner Horn, Caden Biernacki, Jackson Robbins and Cam’ron Decker. Fourth row: Declan Gard, Mason Hisey, Braddock Behling and Clarence Garrett. Photo by Lori Carr.
RHS GIRLS’ WRESTLING Members of the Rochester High School girl’s wrestling team are, in front from left, Laine Peppler, Lilly Gerald, Serenity Howard, Alexis Haughs and Elise Enyart. Middle row: Madelyn Maclain, Constance Velez, Makenna McKee, Kyra Doran and Mayla Gentry. Back row: Korrina Slocum, Kayla Doss and Jaliliah Velez. Photo by Lori Carr.
RHS BOYS’ BASKETBALL — Members
Salvation Army bell ringing will be from 10 a.m to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday at Kroger and Walmart; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, at Smith Farm Store and Runnings. All locations run Friday, Nov. 28 to Wednesday, Dec. 24.
Sign up to ring by going to RegisterToRing.com. Call (574) 835-1070 with any questions or help registering.
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There will be American Red Cross blood drives at the following locations:
• 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, at Woodlawn Hospital.
• 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at Rochester High School. Call (800) 733-7267 or visit RedCrossBlood.org to schedule an appointment.
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Echoes of Pompeii will present “The Pink Floyd Experience” with laser show at 8 p.m. Satur-
day, Nov. 29, at the Times Theater, Rochester. Doors open at 7 p.m. For more information visit facebook.com/thetimestheater.
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Echoes of Christmas will be from 4-6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at the Times Theater, Rochester. Experience enchanting performances, delightful music and heartwarming stories that will warm your soul. Visit facebook. com/thetimestheater.
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County commissioners meeting will be at 9 a.m. Monday, Dec.1, in the Fulton County Office Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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Water board will meet at 5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Sidewalk/tree board will meet at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Purdue University Extension-Fulton County is offering a holiday wreath making workshop from 5:30-7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, at the Fulton County Fairgrounds. Create your own festive wreath while learning about different types of pine and how they hold up through the season. All materials provided. $20 cash or check. Registration is required.
Visit forms.gle/MMpeVsoZDWfM84WG6.
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The Maxinkuckee singers present “A Merry Musical Christmas” at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, at the Bremen Community and Performing Arts Center, and at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at Argos United Methodist Church. Admission is free for this local annual tradition.
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A country Christmas craft show will be from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Twelve Mile Community Building, 7913 E. SR 16, Twelve Mile.
Items available for purchase include handmade treasures, holiday decor, one-of-a-kind gifts from local artisans, rustic Christmas decor, handmade ornaments and wreaths, homemade jams, baked goods and treats, quilts, woodwork, jewelry and more. No admission fee.
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Park board meeting will be at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 8, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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Drainage board meeting will be at 9 a.m. Monday, Dec. 8, in the Fulton County Office Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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County council meeting will be at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 9, in the Fulton County Office Building,
125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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Board of works meeting will be at 8:30 a.m. Friday, Dec.12, in the Rochester City Building Complex, 320 Main St., Rochester.
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County commissioners meeting will be at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 15, in the Fulton County Office Building, 125 E. Ninth St., Rochester.
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A grief group meets 4-7 p.m. Thursdays at The Support Cafe, 715 Main St., Rochester. Emphasis is on suicide loss but any grief, relationship ending, loss of a pet, illness, any cause is welcome. The message is simple, you are not alone.
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Tippecanoe Valley School
Corporation’s Miracle Tree will be up at the Akron Carnegie Public Library, Akron. Community members are able to pick a name to help out a family in need at Christmas.
Names will be available until there are none left. Names tend to go quickly, so be sure to mark your calendars now to help bring good cheer this holiday season.
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The Helping Hands Store located at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 404 Jefferson St., Rochester, offers furniture, household items and clothing to anyone in need. All items in the store are free. Hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday, or by appointment. Call the church with any questions that you may have at (574) 223-6898.
The Bell Aircraft Museum will be having its annual craft show from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6. The show will be held at the Mentone fire station, 201 W. Main St.
More than 29 crafters will be selling their wares. Shoppers can expect to find doll clothes, paintings and hand-carved wood items by local artist Mike Yazel, Christmas decor, painted gourds, T-shirts,
crocheted and knitted items, jewelry, Java Mama coffee, health and beauty products, baked goods, wreaths and more.
Lunch will also be available from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. On the menu will be cheesy potato soup, hot dogs, coney dogs, sloppy Joes, chips, pumpkin spice bars and drinks. For more information, call Marsha at (574) 328-2034.
ABATE Region 1 of Fulton County will be welcoming a special guest next month. Santa Claus is coming to the Fulton County 4-H fairgrounds from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.
Admission is $10 at the door. Attendees can also bring a food dish to cover the cost of admission. New toys valued at $10 or higher will also get folks in the door.
This is an ABATE Foundation event.
There will be a silent auction, food and games for all ages. Bring the kids to see Santa and enjoy a little holiday cheer.
The Akron Public Library, 205 E. Rochester St., has announced its latest additions. For information, call (574) 893-4113.
“A Constant Love,” by Tracie Peterson. After a harsh winter claims the lives of their loved ones, Micah Hamilton and Charlotte Aldrich struggle with loss and guilt. As they grow closer, a scorned suitor threatens Charlotte’s future. The two must seek healing and renewal to build a life grounded in faith, hope and love.
“Billion Dollar Ransom,” by James Patterson. Five members of a billionaire’s family are kidnapped at the same moment. The patriarch stands ready to pay in cash, gold, jewels and cryptocurrency, but Special Agent Nicky Gordon refuses to give kidnappers a single dime.
“The Death Mask,” by Iris Johansen. Renowned forensic sculptor Eve Duncan becomes a target when she refuses a dangerous client who wants her to create an Egyptian death mask. When he threatens the people she loves, Eve is forced to travel to Africa, where she confronts
peril and a priceless artifact.
“These Blue Mountains,” by Sarah Loudin Thomas. German pianist Hedda Schlagel has waited 15 years for her fiancé, Fritz Meyer, who vanished during World War I. After seeing a photo of a U.S. memorial bearing his name, she travels to America, uncovering long-hidden secrets as another world war approaches.
“The Let Them Theory,” by Mel Robbins. Robbins argues that feeling stuck or overwhelmed often stems from giving others too much power. Two simple words — “let them” — form the foundation of a mindset shift designed to help readers reclaim their lives and choices.
“The French Kitchen,” by Kristy Cambron. As Paris rebuilds after World War II, Kat Fontaine relies on the culinary skills she learned in a French chateau to unravel long-buried secrets. Searching for her brother, missing and presumed dead, Kat begins to question her husband’s murky past as her carefully constructed world starts to crumble.
“Perilous Tides,” by Eliza-
The following events will take place in December at Kewanna-Union Township Library, 210 E. Main St., Kewanna. For more information visit Kewanna.lib. in.us or call (574) 653-2011, or check the Facebook page.
Home-Schoolers
At The Library
Home-Schoolers at the Library program is back and it’s all about science. Holiday S.T.E.M. activities will be at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17. Join for a fun-filled program. All home-schoolers are welcome to attend.
Santa Claus
Santa Claus is coming to town. He will make a special appearance from 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, to pose for pictures and to hear children’s Christmas wishes. There will be treats to eat, crafts to make, lots of Christmas stories to listen to and Santa will
have presents for all of the kids that attend.
This special holiday event will be given in cooperation with James F. Talbott VFW Post 1121. Children of all ages are welcome to attend this holiday event. Join for a fun-filled time and don’t forget your Christmas list.
Holiday Hours
Kewanna Union Township Public Library will be closed Dec. 24-25 for the Christmas holiday and Dec. 31-Jan. 1, for the new year. The drop-box is always open.
Regular Weekly Events
• Zak’s Tech Time, noon to 6 p.m. Mondays.
• Teens N Tweens, 4 p.m. Tuesdays.
• Coffee and Tea, 12:30 p.m. Wednesdays.
• Kids Night, 4 p.m. Thursdays.
• Euchre Night, 4-6 p.m. Thursdays.
beth Goddard. Forensic artist Jo Cattrell leaves the safety of a storm-watching lodge to investigate her mother’s death. With help from former Green Beret Cole Mercer, she uncovers dangerous truths as the past rises like a deadly tide.
“The Portrait,” by Danielle Steel. Devon Darcy, a portrait artist known for capturing emotion on canvas, hides deep personal loss. Entrepreneur Charles Mackenzie Taylor, shaped by a cold upbringing, is drawn to her. When an accident threatens Devon’s career, both must confront their fears and decide what they want from life and each other.
“South of Nowhere,” by Jeffery Deaver. With a failing levee threatening a Northern California town, Colter Shaw is hired to find a family swept away by floodwaters. As time runs out, Shaw and his sister, Dorion, must determine whether the disaster is natural — or the work of a saboteur.
“A Sea View Christmas,” by Julie Klassen. Sarah Summers once dismissed the interest of a charming Scottish widower, but his return rekindles old feelings. Her sister, Georgiana, anticipates an idyllic Christmas, unaware young love may surprise her. Both hope the season’s romance leads to lasting happiness.
“The Impossible Fortune,” by Richard Osman. The Thursday Murder Club faces a new mystery when Elizabeth encounters a wedding guest seeking her help. When he disappears, the group investigates his secretive business partner. The friends must unravel the puzzle — and a murder — before time runs out.
“Shadow Ticket,” by Thom-
as Pynchon. In 1932 Milwaukee, private investigator Hicks McTaggart is sent to retrieve the wandering heiress of a Wisconsin cheese fortune. The search plunges him into a tangle of Nazis, Soviet agents, British spies, swing musicians, paranormal practitioners and outlaw motorcyclists.
“The Tenant,” by Frieda McFadden. After losing his job, Blake Porter struggles to pay the mortgage on his brownstone. When Whitney — charming and seemingly perfect — becomes his tenant, Blake hopes she will ease his financial burden. But something is off, and danger soon hits close to home.
By MAKSYM HART Staff Writer
Mayor Trent Odell says the city of Rochester has passed the halfway point in an extensive, months-long effort to inspect, clean and map its stormwater infrastructure, a project that has already uncovered previously unmapped pipes, cross bores, structural damage and thousands of gallons of sediment clogging the system.
Mayor Trent Odell and City Engineer Randy Williams detailed the progress in a recent update, describing the work as the most in-depth evaluation of the storm sewer network the city has ever undertaken.
Williams said.
Crews also cleaned and scanned 133 manholes, assessing their condition and identifying which will require future repairs.
Once the full survey is complete, R&R Visual will assign condition ratings to each segment of pipe and every manhole, giving the city a prioritized blueprint for reconstruction.
The work began in Manitou Heights, where flooding issues have persisted for years, and then expanded outward. But crews soon encountered a major obstacle on Wabash Avenue: over a ton of debris lodged in the main line.
spections before and after digging near storm or sanitary lines to document any damage.
“We created an ordinance stating that if you’re going to be digging around storm or wastewater pipe, you need to camera it before and after,” Odell said.
The cleaning process has been intensive. Crews used an estimated 737,000 gallons of water to flush the lines and removed what Williams described as multiple dump truck loads of sand. A large pile of material now sits near the city’s cold-storage building.
According to Williams, Rochester began the project Sunday, June 1 after leasing a hydrovac truck and contracting R&R Visual to provide a two-person cleaning crew and a two-person camera inspection team.
The effort originally relied on decades-old maps showing 133 miles of storm sewer and 275 manholes, but crews quickly learned that the true scope was larger.
“So far we have 88 miles cleaned and CCTV-inspected, and we know there’s more than that because we found pipe that was not on the original map,”
“When we started going up Wabash Avenue, the debris in places was a foot below the drain lid,” Williams said. “We had to clean that whole stretch out before we could work back through the connecting pipes.”
The process revealed additional complications. At least nine cross bores - instances where utility companies drilled through storm sewer lines - were discovered.
In some cases, gas and communication companies were notified and will return to remove their lines. In another instance, water department staff helped extract a water line that had pierced a storm pipe so the city could repair the damage.
One storm line was also found cracked by a mis-set utility pole, prompting new rules at the City Council.
The city recently passed an ordinance requiring utility contractors to perform camera in-
Rochester budgeted about $400,000 for the year’s stormwater utility budget and the first phase of the project has spent roughly $325,000 so far, not including repairs already underway.
Odell said the city expects to use nearly the entire allocation to finish this year’s diagnostics.
With more than half of the stormwater system now inspected, the city plans to resume the project next May or June, weather permitting, to complete the remaining areas and begin prioritizing structural repairs.
“We’re just a little over half done,” Williams said. “Next year we’ll get the rest of the system surveyed and then figure out what needs repaired first.”
Odell said the goal of releasing the update was simple: to reassure residents that the city’s stormwater dollars are being used effectively.
“I just wanted residents to realize their money’s being spent and used well,” he said.
Nov. 4 at Norwell 4A L 14-67
Nov. 6 Northwestern 3A W 59-6
Nov. 11 at Culver Academy 3A W 51-41
Nov. 13 Knox 2A © W 67-35
Nov. 18 at Triton 1A W 47-30
Nov. 21 LaVille 2A © 7:30 pm
Nov. 25 Rochester 2A 7:00 pm
Nov. 29 N Austin 2A 12:00 PM tournament
Dec. 3 at Plymouth 3A 7:30 pm
Dec. 6 at John Glenn 3A © 7:30 pm
Dec. 11 at Bremen 2A © 7:30
Jan. 14 at North Miami 1A 7:45 pm
Jan. 22 Warsaw 4A 7:30 pm
Jan. 24 at DeMotte Christian 1A 3:30 pm
Jan. 27 Wawasee 3A 7:45 pm
Jan. 28 at Elkhart 4A 7:30 pm © INDIANA NORTHERN STATE CONFERENCE
Rochester Middle School has announced its honor rolls for the first grading period of the
All A Honor Roll
The following students have received all As. Seventh Grade — Nyah Lane Archambeault, Willow Grace Black, Alivia Jane Carpenter, Reed Hunter Casper, Deacon Kane Cheesman, Natalie Darling, Alivia Marie Ford, Ava Lorraine Forry, Minna Lynn Fulton, Kymberlee Jezette Gonzalez, Hank Matthew Hardesty, Anastasia So-
phia Jackson. Bailey Jean Koebcke, Mason Kyle McLochlin, Jacob Michael Miller, Allison Ava Mulligan, Kapri Nicole Dawn Pesa, Melissa Louise Rose Riseling, Sullivan Brodie Lee Vasquez, Layne Joseph Wagoner, Easton Ray Warren, McCrea Meredith Wilson, Whitley Jeanette Winans and Ryder Michael Benjamin Winterrowd. Sixth Grade — Jolene Lyn Armstrong, Carson Tyler Banks, Wyatt Damic Beck, Brantlyn Andrew Brubaker, Corinna Rae Chevalier, Lucy James Downs,
Ryker Jace Fishburn, Everett Louis Horvath, Logan J. Howard, Harper Lee Howell, Kaitlin L. Jaeger, Luke Bradley Dean Johnson, Keaghan Marie Kauffman, Crew William Kiser, Otto Leroy Koebcke. Griffin Max McKee, Graham Joseph Miller, Vanessa Noel Miller, LouAnnie Mae Million, Carter Owen Overmyer, Donovan Josue Poe, Kinley Grace Reynolds, Sophie RayLynn Ritter, Liam Jeffery Robertson, Madison Leah Rupley, Maddox Ares Xander Shaffer, Nora Rose Straeter, Luke Michael Thom-
as, Mackenzie D. Utter, Kaylee Ann Layne Weakman, Evan James Wilson and Lanah Harper Young. Fifth Grade — Hannah Warren Atkinson, Harper Jesse Atkinson, Gracelyn Vale Beck, Owen Keith Brown, Kalvin Zane Cheesman, Wilsyn DuBois, Carson George Enyart, Kinley Marie Fincher, Liberty Grace Fox, Isaac Lee Gonzalez, Margaret Jayne Helt, Asher James Hines, Sonya Rose Jenkinson. Liam Lockhart, Aiden Paul Lynch, Jackson Scott Thomas
Nov. 18 at Argos 1A © W 31-21
Nov. 24 Oregon-Davis 1A © 6:30 pm
Dec. 3 N Cass County Invit. 6 pm thru Dec. 6
Dec. 3 Cass County Invit.2A 6 pm thru Dec. 6
Dec. 11 North Judson 1A © 8:00 pm
Dec. 16 at Pioneer 1A © 7:30 pm
Dec. 18 at Frontier 1A 7:30 pm
Dec. 29 N Miami County Invit. TBA thru Dec. 30
Jan. 3 at Triton 1A © 7:30 pm
Jan. 6 at Western 3A 7:30 pm
Jan. 8 at Culver 1A © 7:30 pm
Jan. 15 Tri-County 1A 7:30 pm
Jan. 16 at Bethany Christian 1A 7:30 pm
Jan. 22 North Miami 1A © 7:30 pm
Jan. 27 Carroll (Flora) 1A 7:30 pm
Jan. 29 at DeMotte Christian 1A 7:30 pm © HOOSIER NORTH CONFERENCE GAME
Coach: Josh Douglass, 85-40 in 6th year at school, 235-132 in 16th year overall
Morton, Eva Nicole Mulligan, Reagan Michelle Oliver, Eloise Norma Packer, Angel Mauricio Plascencia, Isaac Nicodemus Pote, Claire K. Rupley, Jasmine Marie Thiry, Nicholas Tran, Eres Nichole Tuttle, Lizzy Grace Walley and Malcolm T. Zehner. A/B Honor Roll
The following students have received A/Bs.
Seventh Grade — Giovanni Hector Agosto, Khloe Anahi Destiny Andrea Aguilar, Kaylee Michelle Baugh Owens, Em-
Continued on page 15
mett Jeffery Joseph Bitterling, Zuri Marie Blackburn, Mason Lee Bowyer, Owen Patrick Brady, Liam Michael Burton, Roman Carter Coffing, Isabel Brandy Cortez, Landon Glen Hisey. Briggs Matthew Hunter, Paige Bailey Jacobson, Tyler Alan Lawrence Kanouse, Irene Isabella Kouskousakis, Chloe Renee Ladouceur, Emmett Clay Leininger, Millie Jo Maroney, Lincoln Douglas Merideth, Olliveia Lou Messersmith, Sadie Melane Pearson, Daniel Kahlil Roden, Daisy
Anne Salvatierra, Nico James Scorsone. Heidi Grace Shuck, Sophie Anne Shuck. Emma Rose Kay Smith, Eli Morris Thomas, Valerie Louise Trainer, Cailynn Mae Tyler, Caleb William Vigar, Linley Marie Wilburn, Jack Richard Williams, Paisley Lashel Williams and Hadley Joanne Zehner. Sixth Grade — Alice Makenzie Atkinson, Kailyn Grace Balanow, Daphne Dell Blakesley, Molly Ann Brouyette, Landyn David-Mack Brower, Weslee Mavrick Buckner, Darrell Joe Burden, Ethan Castle
Cloud, Alexis Marie Davis, Tyson Ray Eatmon, Lennox Blas Ferro, Gage Robert Fishburn, Hudson James Frounfelter, Searra Anne Gudas. Jordan Marcus Halterman, Grant Nathaniel Wells Holder, Madison Kay Hunter, Wyatt Lee Jackson, Morgan R Jacobson, Wyatt Jackson Kapp, Aria Mae Kauffman, Andrew Joseph Love, Benjamin Cole Love, Gil Orville Newton, Avery Lynn Perkins, Harper Lee Rensberger, Dakota Kaye Schwarte, Landen Wade Skinner, Cross Michael Sliss, Abby Leann Small, Brenton Jacob
Adam Smith and Layla Lenay Swartzel.
Fifth Grade — Madeline Moon Baker, Aimee Grace Bauman, Emmitt Allen Bowyer, Jude Mathis Brown, Jaxen Butler, Carmen Elizabeth Catanzarite, Dominic Bryan Darling, McKenna Kay Field, Bristol Grace Fuller, Abigail Hope Hanson, Brentlee George Helt, Kaiden Lucan Hoagland, Easton Thomas Holloway, Declan Connell House. Aurora Hubbard-Shambarger, Jaxson Charles Hunter, Conner Royce Jacobs, Terennie June Metz, Kaius Orion Miller, Owen Rockwell Murphy, Jovaniel Loet Perez Rosario, Aryam Alejandro Pico Lira, Jaxson Lee Porter, Aleyna Fay Ranstead, Imanauella Victoria Reason, Kenzington Kay Rensberger. Kyler Edward Ridenour, Audrey June Sehstedt, Asher Isaiah Smith, Elena Mae Straeter, William Stucky, Liam Reed Taylor, Gweth Atieno Tindi, Ryan Elizabeth Trottier, Greyson Miles Vance, Elijah John Vavrecan, Wrigley Adam Vega, Adan Villasenor, Lucy Lee Williams, Suraya Ann Faith Williams and Quinnley Ann Zent. Continued from page 14
— Row 1: Mgr. Simon McGrew, Drew McGrew, Tucker Woolever, Carson Harness, Reed Sommers, Mgrs Giselle Aguilar-Mendez and Savannah Zimmerman. Row 2: Brodie Howard, Gavin Mollenkopf, Gage Thomas, Lane Hook, Logan Mollenkopf and Owen Chapman.
Row 3: Varsity Coach Carl Davis, Assistant Coaches Blake Harness and Chip Woodhouse.
Rochester High School has announced its honor roll for the first grading period of the 2025-2026 school year.
All-A Honor Roll
The following students received all As.
12th Grade — Olivia Marie Bailey, Allyson Renee Calloway, Matthew Dylan Crossland, Harrison Lane Dunwoody, Brayden Alan Gamble, Ellen Mae Hake, Alexis Lorena Hernandez, Mason Elijah Hisey, Lincoln Elijah Holder, Gavin Michael Mollencupp, Charlotte Perry, Carlos Adriano Plascencia, Jesse Edward Smith
and Violet Rose Whitmer. 11th Grade — Joel Alexander Criollo, Jackson Dale Frounfelter, Jackson Thomas Robbins, Kale Andrew Shotts and Abriella Marie St, Martin. 10th Grade — Sophia Lynn Baker, Sophie Noelle Beehler, Bentley Edward Blackburn, Cayden Andrew Caudill, Elise Renee Enyart, Aaron Christopher Furrow, Quinn Harper Gruss, Savannah Jane Gudas and Adison Nicole Hayes.
Ninth Grade — Addisyn Marie Banks, Hope Elizabeth Baugh, Alexis Lorraine Black,
Then challenge yourself or a friend to remember as many ads as you can. YOUR
Lyla Lynn Bowers, Alexandria Aria Cortes-Gustafson, Emma Ann Dunfee, Ali Breanne Field, Adalyn Marie Gonzalez, Angelikah Joy Graber, Ainsley Piper Horvath, Serenity Deen Howard, Taylor Renee Jones, Evan Lee Maroney, Daniela Cristina Ochoa, Shelby May Pearson, Leonel Alonso Plascencia, Haylee Marie Shuck, Bailey Jade Smith, Taya Akello Tindi, Jaide Marie Trottier, James Oscar Wells and Mackenzie Marie Widman.
Eighth Grade — Lindy I. Armstrong, Charlotte Louise Backus, Aubrey Lynn Bauman, Vada Mae Biernacki, Ashlyn Rae Bradley, Hayley Michelle Bright, Kenna Lee Calvert, Cash Paul Casper, Katelyn Cheyenne Conliff, Korbyn Ian Crossland, Lucas Wayne Enyart, Jordan Edgar Gonzalez, Hailey Mae Howell, Ayden Joseph Jaeger, Ella Rayne Jenkins, Sarai Lopez, Rilee Jean Lucker, Kinlee Monroe McKee, 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. A/B Honor Roll
The following students have received A/Bs.
12th Grade — Aracely Elizabeth Aguilar, Spencer James Backus, Grant Stephen Bailey, Brant William Beck, Emma Susan Joy Beck, Madison Lynn Black, Wade Maddux Bowers, Brooklyn Jae Chandler, David Grant Clark, Mason Dean Conrad, Danika Jonee’ Dickson, Conner Joseph Dunfee, Blake Matthew Eccles, Callen Lee Ferverda, Declan Ryan Gard, Clarence Malachi McCloud Garrett, Lillian Mae Gerald, Nevaeh Elizabeth Goodman, Seanna Lee Gudas, Dakotta Marie Guyse, Jordyn Renae Hackworth, Brooklyn Marie Halterman, Mylee Kathline Heinzmann, Layne Jordan Horn, Isabella Grace Howdeshell, David Ethan Hyde, Gavin Micheal Jones, Hunter Lee Kamp, Simranpreet Kaur, Ayden William Keller, Brylie Anne Kiggins, Jonas Gray Kiser, Ada Marie Kohls, Koltin Devane Korbel, Aiden Joseph Kough, Elijah James Kroledge, Preston Hunter Luhnow, Carter Ryan Merideth, Myrandace Rae Metz, Aubrey Linn Miller, Andres Yurel Molina, Avarie Dawn Montel, Ashton Michael Musselman, Braxton Chace Norman, Carson Jeffrey Paulik, Laine
Marie Peppler, Raiden Cody Andrew Putman, Jack Carvey Reffett, Jesse Fletcher Roe, Evan Shane Rudd, Olivia Joesphine Rude, Broderyck J Simons, Kurtis Eugene Smith, Gracie RaAnne Snelling, John Paul Trotier, Abbigayle Raine Tuttle, Kelsey Alivia Walker, Rylee Hope Wallace, Ashlynn Nikole Luray Weyant, Chloe Layla-Isabella Wheadon, Aiden Micheal Witten and Jabez Michael Yarber. 11th Grade — Abbigail Marie Artist, Ethan Douglas Bailey, Emah Elizabeth Bradley, Daniela Nicolet Cisneros, Evan Gregory Coffing, Brady Lane Coleman, Kyra Mae Doran, Mishay Raeanne Ernie, Jadyn Michelle Field, Logan Matthew Fuller, Zane Lee Galbraith, Navan Elijah Goodman, Justynah Lynn Graber, Tanner Scott Hamilton, Makhia Theresa Harding, Kylie Rae Haselby, Alexis Lee Haughs, Isaac Daniel Heishman, Grant Steven Holloway, Logyn Kay Honkomp, Izabella Ray Hook, Anne Horban, Brailyn Nicole Hunter, Leandro Javier, Willow Deann Kamplain, Sophia Grace Kouskousakis, Tanner William Krom, Julissa Lopez, Ruth Mae Love, KayLea Jade McCarty, Makenna Renee McKee, Gabriella Loo Medina, Averie Lynn Marie Messimore, Laynie Marie Migonis, Vivian Grace Miller, Emma Lynnae Murphy, Taylor Paige Navara, Addison Taylor Nelson, Vallorie Cheyenne Nelson, Brevin Thomas Nicholson, Kelsey Mae Pearson, Reed Alton Perry, Natalia Kae Pittman, Alexander Cage Porterfield, Adam Joseph Edward Reinhold, Bria Noelle Rensberger, Jenna Michele Seuferer, Braylon Levi Smith, Liam Joseph Spence, Rilyn Paige Strasser, Addison Averie Sutton, Cailab Martin Tyler, Maried Joli Vazquez Perez, Ashelynn Emma Kay Rhodes, Riley Jade Vessels, Audrey Lee Widman, Aubrey Kay Wilson, Chloe Carter Winn, Riley Lynn Wolfe and Maximus Wrigley Cy Young. 10th Grade — Madeline Ella Bailon, Trinity Melannie Baine, Alison Nicole Bauman, Colton Wayne Black, Elizabeth Lynn Brower, Alejandro Chapman, Mitchell William Clark, Kyla Breann Conley, Braxtyn Shayne Cunningham, Joshua Daniel DeSonia, McKynlee Rae Dickson, Kayla Danica Doss, Brayson Carter Flory, Ella Jo Frounfelter, Raylee Lyen Fry, Sol John Fulton, Jaser Liam Garrett, Anna Grace Griggs, Jeffrey Taylor Howard, Abby Marie Jimenez, Tony Joseph Kiggins, Brayden Lee Kiss, Meagan Rene Kreft, Molly Kathryn Leslie, Owen Lee Lett, Abbygail Jean Lowry, Dillynn Kole DeVane Martin, Emma Grayce Mathias, Sylvia Ann McCall, Grant James McGlothin, Grayson David Miller, Jayla Marie Miller, Molly Marianne Moore, Avrianna Nichella Pawski, Reagan Jo Perry, Gavin Kayle Pinder, Azaria Alynn Roze
Ploetz, Ella Alli-Kay Ramsey, Grant Marshall Reese, Jay Thomas Ritter, Samantha J Roe, Jesse Matthew Smith, Riplee McKenna Snyder, Peyton LeeAnn Spencer, Ellie Michelle Straeter, Summer Jewel Tyler, Ariah Rayne Upp, Shianne Marie Wakeland, Amara Nicole Wieringa, Linden Dean Wilburn, Kaison Dylan Williams, Aiden Dean Wilson, Derek Robert Wortley, Jasmyn Louise Zartman, Aaden James Zimmerman and Addisyn Mary Zimmerman. Ninth Grade — Kala Marie Baugh Owens, Caden Lee Biernacki, Corbin Lee Boldry, Grant Eli Bolinger, Steven Micheal Cain Cortez, Gavin Scott Fincher, Brooklyn Leann Gard, Brenah Mary Beth Garrison, Audrey Renee Guard, Shelby Linnea Haselby, Malaki Rome Hicks, Benjamin Noble Hopkins, Tanner Lee Horn, Maria Guadalupe Jimenez, Van Grafton Kiser, Mackenzie Danielle Kuhnz, Drew Patrick Lawson, Jacob David Lawson, Zoey Kathleen Lawson, Kyleigh Madison Little, Peyton N Leasure, Madelyn G Maclain, Aubree Elizabeth-Donovan Martin, Angel Alexander Marquez-Cisneros, Memphis James Miller, Aisley Elaine Montel, Eli Robert Murphy, Blayke Logan Nelson, Mason Andrew Oliver, Conner James Overmyer, Brody James Owens, Evan Lee Pearson, Ayven Raine Porter, Lucas Mossimo Scorsone, Cami Lanae Small, Ayden Joseph Smith, Savannah Lynn Maxine Summers, Arabella Rose Taylor, Chloie Michelle Tyler, Layla Joy Tyler, Tyson Michael Wachtmann and Camden Blair Zink. Eighth Grade — Kylie M Aguilar, Delilah Olivia Ashby, Teagan Isaiah Bailey, Piper Willow Beebe, Dawson O Beehler, Zoey Josleyn Binion, Zoey E Blakesley, Grayson Lane Bowyer, Baylee Elizabeth Brown, Brantley Joseph Burkett, Rosalynne Marie Casey, Alyssa Michelle Clapper, Aydan Alexander Cortes-Gustafson, Bridgette Davis, Jaslyn Macie Dell, Aubrie Kay Dille, Warner Thomas Joseph Michael DuBois, Kinley Sue Flory, Bralynn Marie Floyd, Richelle Lei Fogelsanger, Morgan Bailey Fowler, Caitlynn Skye Gard, Alaina Garrison, Samya Y. Gray, Aliyah Guerrero, Zandra Laine Handy, Riley Kay Harding, Allaynna Marie Hart, Jackson Carl Howard, Makenna Sue Jackson, Kevin Bryan Jones, Grayson Oliver Kauffman, Elijah Thomas Kreighbaum, Addisyn Grace Malone, Lillian April Merideth, Asher Allen James Merrill, Elizabeth Marie Metz, Griffin Paul Newton, Andrea Ortega, Aiven James Pawski, Gabriel Pote, Chesney Faye Samuels, Charles Shull, Morgan Jade Simpson, Addison Kay Smith, Kenlee Marie Smith, Alexis Eliza Springer, Elijah Eric Straeter, Mason Christopher Woodcox and Madelyn Evie Zimpleman.
Rochester sports update
Girls Wrestling
gym Saturday.
By VAL TSOUTSOURIS Sports Editor, RTC
The Rochester girls wrestling team scored 160.5 points and finished second out of 29 teams at the Rochester Invitational at the RHS
Lilly Gerald (105), Kyra Doran (120) and Laine Peppler (170) were weight-class champions. Makenna McKee (125) finished second, Elise Enyart (145) placed third and Serenity Howard (115) took fifth.
Lexi Haughs went 4-1 with four falls at 155 but did not place.
Gerald earned a tiebreaking fall in the final match at 110, and Howard (115), Doran (120), Jahliah Velez (125), McKee (130) and Peppler (170) also won by fall for the Rochester girls wrestling team in a 36-30
Caston Elementary School has announced its honor rolls for the first grading period of the 20252026 school year.
All-A Honor Roll
The following students have received all As.
Fifth Grade — Cece Boldry, Lucas Douglass, Brooklyn Harrison, Max Marrs, Molly Moon, Jacoby Rentschler, Kam Rigney, Fletcher Swisher, Cara Ulerick and Levi Zartman.
Fourth Grade — Asher Ault, Ryker Ball, Lynnly Berry, Emery Bowyer, Henry Bowyer, Elliana Clayton, Natalie Crane, Tate Emery, Jack Monical, Annemarie Paschen, Chloe Scott, Owen Swanson, Berkley Tocco, Claire Woodhouse and Paisley Zimmer.
Third Grade — Carson Bennett, Berkley Biscella, Mariah Byers, Vanesa Camarena, Jedi Cook, Addison Davis, Holdyn Foster, Allesiana Hively, Evelyn McClain and Everett Zartman.
A/B Honor Roll
The following students have received A/Bs.
Fifth Grade — Kooper Baird, Akinnah Brown, Ethan Damrow, Samuel Flenar, Ellie Greer, Claudia Homburg, Eloy Hulette, Tiberius Kieninger, Zayne Lerche, Emersyn Ogle, Isabella Rude, Alaina Russell, Parker Schroder, Carson Tyra, Aubree Van Ham and Julianna Wright.
Fourth Grade — Mykah Brown, Henry Coffing, Cooper Cole, Elliana Harrison, Ezekiel Helt, Blakelee Herrold, Gracelyn Holladay, Neo Hulette, Kane Jackson, Oliver Jones, Sawyer Jones, Liam Mashiana, Caro-
win over Western at the RHS gym Wednesday.
Rochester led 30-12 before Western won by fall at 190 and 235 and won by forfeit at 100. The 105 match was a double forfeit.
That meant it came down to Gerald, who came in ranked No. 6 in the state according to IndianaMat.com, against Rayna Cooper.
Gerald worked around Cooper, starting with a single-leg takedown and then turning it into a double for the first takedown. Cooper got an escape, but Gerald finished the match with another takedown before turning Cooper and trapping her arms for the fall in 1:25.
Boys Wrestling
Girls Basketball
line Maynard, Riley Miller, Reed Nethercutt, Carter Rentschler, Taelyn Roland, Avery Roller, Olivia Sanchez, Zariah Shepherd, Jayden West and Karli Williams. Third Grade — Sofia Aguilar, Ashton Armstrong, William Damrow, Sadie Elza, Madyson Estrada, Jacob Fred, /aspynn Hizer, Draven Holt, Ashia Kitchel, Talia Kitts, Jaxsyn Lee, Elliot Lehenbauer, Zakari Lerche, Raiden Loftis, Gabby Malott, Aurora Mims, A’Briella Nicoson, Kyra Rush, Joreen Santillana, Mia Sherman, Bianca WIlliams, Jaxon Williams, Taliyah Williams and Laykon Woodruff.
Tanner Horn (113), Jackson Robbins (120), Layne Horn (132), Derek Wortley (190) and Mason Hisey (215) won by fall for the Rochester boys wrestling team in a 50-27 win over host Rensselaer on Friday.
Brant Beck (165) won by technical fall, and Kale Shotts (175) won by decision.
Grant Holloway (126) and Declan Gard (HWT) won by forfeit.
Rochester won seven of the 12 contested matches.
In the preseason IndianaMat.com polls, Rochester was ranked No. 3 in Class 1A and Rensselaer was ranked No. 4. Rensselaer is an eight-time defending sectional champion.
Jadyn Field scored 10 points and grabbed eight rebounds, but the visiting Rochester girls basketball team lost to Maconaquah 49-26 on Saturday. Aubrey Wilson and Lyla Bowers added six points each, all in the second half.
Maconaquah led by as many as 27 points in the fourth quarter and ended a five-year losing streak against Rochester.
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By TOM DAVIES
Indiana Capital Chronicle
An annual survey shows that the traditional Thanksgiving meal will be a tick more expensive for Hoosier families this year.
Indiana Farm Bureau’s annual “market basket survey” found the cost of a 10-person Thanksgiving dinner averages $53.62, up 0.6% from 2024. That compares to a national average price this year of $55.18.
The expected cost of $21.09 for a 16-pound turkey is virtually the same as last year, with produce prices the driver of the slight over-
Pall increase, according to Indiana Farm Bureau Chief Economist Todd Davis.
Those higher prices are seen in carrots and celery for a veggie tray, 43 cent increase; sweet potatoes, 30 cent increase; pumpkin pie filling, 24 cent increase and peas, 14 cent increase.
“Fresh produce markets can be very volatile, and many of these items saw an increase in wholesale and retail prices nationally,” Davis said. “Those retail prices reflect an increase in factors beyond the farm gate, including transportation, labor, fuel, packaging and more that contribute to the overall increased
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Bidding open until 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30. Pickup at 1582 W. SR 114, North Manchester. Morgan and peace silver dollars, red seal and star notes, large cents, flying eagles, walking halves, Indian head cents, seated and mercury dimes, marbles, error coins, 2 and 3 cent pieces, proof sets. Metzger Property Services, metzgerauction.com.
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Bidding open until 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1. Pickup at 1582 W. SR
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cost of the product.”
The survey’s price calculation includes the 16-pound turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, rolls, peas, a carrot and celery veggie tray, whole milk, cranberries, whipping cream, ingredients for pumpkin pie and miscellaneous baking items.
The Farm Bureau says its market survey was conducted in early November by volunteer shoppers across Indiana who search for the best prices at their local grocery stores while not using coupons or special promotions.
With the turkey making up 39% of the total dinner cost, the Farm Bureau points to Indiana ranking fourth in national turkey production as helping the state’s turkey price being about 2% less than the national average.
“The concentration of turkey production in this region provides lower processing and marketing costs, which gets the turkey from the farm to the Thanksgiving table efficiently,” Davis said.
Still, a Thanksgiving meal in Indiana costs about 25% more than it did in 2019, reflecting a trend of post-COVID-19 pandemic inflation that’s still affecting grocery prices.
The Thanksgiving meal survey found a cost of $42.66 in 2019, but it has fallen about 12% since hitting a peak of $61 in 2022.
The Indiana Farm Bureau pointed to U.S. Department of Agriculture statistics showing that only 15.9 cents of every retail food dollar can be attributed to farm production. The rest is for food processing, packaging, transporta-
tion, wholesale and retail distribution and food service preparation.
“Many consumers don’t realize that farmers are price-takers, just like them,” said Janis Highley, the Indiana Farm Bureau’s 2nd vice president. “We don’t set the prices, and the amount farmers are being paid doesn’t cover the increase of their input expenses.”
Pres. Donald Trump earlier this month boasted that prices are falling under his administration – pointing to the cost of WalMart’s Thanksgiving bundle being 25% less. But this year’s package contains less food than in 2024.
State Sen. Stacey A. Donato (R-Logansport) gathered with fellow legislators on Tuesday, Nov. 18, at the Statehouse for Organization Day – the ceremonial start of the Indiana General Assembly. Organization Day marks the annual first roll call of all state lawmakers. This day also provides members of the Senate and House of Representatives with the opportunity to meet before
session officially reconvenes on Jan. 5. By state law, the 2026 session will conclude on or before March 14.
“I always enjoy reuniting with my fellow lawmakers at the Statehouse to continue serving and representing my constituents in District 18,” Donato said. “We worked diligently this interim to find ways to address the topics that are most important to Hoo-
siers, and I look forward to getting started this session.”
As the 2026 session gets underway, Donato encourages residents of Senate District 18 to contact her with any questions or comments they may have. Donato can be reached by filling out a “Contact Me” form online at IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/ Donato or by phone at (800) 3829467.
St. Joseph’s Catholic Church will be collecting nonperishable food items throughout November and December. All collected food items will be used to create the Christmas baskets that are given to local families each year.
Nonperishable food items include: granola bars, canned fruit/vegetables, flour, peanut butter, cereal, crackers, boxed meals, canned soups/chili, Hamburger Helper, canned meats, sloppy joe mix and Velveeta, as well as other items.
Donated food items must be dropped off at St. Joseph’s
Catholic Church on or before Sunday, Dec. 14. The church is located at 1310 Main Street in Rochester. The food will be taken to the Fulton County 4-H fairgrounds where the baskets will be assembled and sent out for delivery on Saturday, Dec. 20.
Anyone can make food or monetary donations to support the food drive. Anyone who is interested in volunteering to create the baskets or make deliveries will be welcome.
Questions can be answered by calling the church office at (574) 946-4906.
DUSTIN’S PLACE — Farm Credit Mid-America recently donated $5,000 to Dustin’s Place, Plymouth. Dustin’s place provides free peer grief support to children ages 4-18 years old.
Dustin’s Place is in other area schools to help children grieving a family member/sibling/parent. To learn more, visit dustinsplace.org
Shown from left are Jake Bockover, Farm Credit; Viki Brown, executive director of Dustin’s Place; and Megan Greer, Farm Credit. Photo provided by Tasha Schwenk.
Editor’s Note: Gina Moore is a nurse practitioner and diabetic educator for Woodlawn Health.
By GINA MOORE, FNP Woodlawn Health
The holiday season is synonymous with indulgent meals and festive treats, often leading to a departure from healthy habits. However, enjoying the holidays while maintaining balanced nutrition and preparing for a healthier New Year is possible. I always emphasize to patients the importance of staying consistent with healthy eating outside of celebratory occasions. Incorporating high-fiber and protein-rich meals, avoiding fried and fast foods, and prioritizing water intake can lay the foundation for overall wellness.
Skipping breakfast is a common mistake; starting the day with a balanced meal is essential, as it can boost metabolism and energy. Moderation, not deprivation, is key to enjoying holiday treats. I advise indulging in favorite snacks without guilt but being mindful of portion sizes. You can enjoy them, then go back to balanced meals. Avoid letting one treat spiral into unhealthy habits.
Other strategies for navigating workplace temptation, where holiday goodies abound, include staying hydrated, getting regular exercise and snacking on nutritious options like fruits with peanut butter. These can help curb cravings and maintain focus on balanced eating. Ultimately, food is only
GINA MOORE, FNP food. If you blow it, move on and make healthier choices the next day. Remember, it is all about balance and being kind to yourself.
The Rochester Lions Club has established two $500 scholarships for Rochester High School graduates from the Lions Club memorial fund. Scholarships are awarded by a committee of Lions Club members to current college students based on scholarship, character and financial need. Students must be currently enrolled in college to apply. This scholarship is geared towards those in technical/vocational schools such as welding, mechanical, cosmetology, barbering or others requiring non-traditional training.
Applications are available in the Rochester High School guidance office or on the website at zebras.net/rhs-guidance/scholarships and must be returned by Friday, Dec. 19.