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May 15, 2008
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May 15, 2008

 
Parents, Grandparents, Friends ~ Send a Special Message to Your Graduate
The Parkway Independent  is offering a special page for parking a photo special message for your graduate.
Click here for details
 
 
 
Parkway 4th and 5th Graders Present Their Show, too

The fourth and fifth graders at Parkway elementary held their spring concert complete with song, dance, and laughter. Nikki fox caught all the action. Click Here for more pictures and thank you Nikki!

 
 
 
 
Click Here for Van Wert Common Pleas Court ~ Criminal Arraignments by Baliff Dennis Kimmet ~ May 14, 2008
 
 

May 14, 2008

 
 
 
Parkway Second and Third Graders Spring Concert

Click Here for More great shots! Thank you, Nikki, for sharing!

 

 
 
Panthers Face Ft. Recovery Indians on May 9 at Don Black Field ~ Win Big 15- 5 in 5 Innings
The boys varsity baseball team finished their last home game of the season with a big win over FR. Their season record is 19-3 with a MAC score of 6-2.

Click Here for more of these great action pictures by Nikki Fox
 

Thank you Nikki, for sharing.

Click Here for tournament information by Pat Agler on the Pantherzden

 
 
Click Here for the Calendar of Events (May 12 - May 28) at Parkway High School by Principal Greg Puthoff
 
 
 

May 13, 2008

 
 
 

                  Parkway Sports Physicals Scheduled
 

If you are a patient of Dr. Sell, Dr. Easley,  Dr. Jarvis, Dr. Miller, Dr. Al, Carrie Stoller CNP, or Chris Ulrich CNP

Sports physical information is provided below.

********************************

If you are NOT a patient of one of these Doctors you must get your physical from your own Doctor

No Physicals for 7th Graders!

Physical packets are available in the High School office.  All forms must be complete and SIGNED BY PARENT before your physical will be given!

**If you have glasses/contacts-WEAR THEM!!**
 

Patients of

 Dr. Sell

When: Wednesday June 4th

Where: Dr. Sell’s office

Cost: $5.00

Make Checks Payable to:

Family Medicine

*The $5 will be donated from Dr. Sell to Parkway Athletics.*

 

Go by your INCOMING grade:

1:00 p.m. Incoming 8th Graders

2:00 p.m. Incoming 9th Graders

3:00 p.m. Incoming 10th Graders

4:00 p.m. Incoming 11th and 12th Graders

Please be ON TIME for your

Incoming grade level

DO NOT COME EARLY

 

Patients of

Dr. Easley,

Dr. Jarvis,

Dr. Miller, Dr. Al,
Carrie Stoller CNP,
or Chris Ulrich CNP

When: Monday June 16th

6:00-9:00 P.M.

First Come-First Serve

Where: Van Wert Health Center Suites 201 and 209

Cost: $5.00

Make Checks Payable to:

Parkway Athletic Department

*The $5 will be donated from the doctors to Parkway Athletics.*

 

 
 
 
 
 
Parkway Kindergartners and 1st Graders Spring Concert

Aren't they adorable?  Nikki Fox caught all the action at the concert as the little Panthers performed songs that came with lots of practice. Parents, grandparents and community members gathered on Thursday, May 8 for the Parkway Music Concert for Kindergarten and 1st Grades @ 6:30 pm in the Auditorium.

Click Here for More great shots! Thank you, Nikki, for sharing!

 
 
 
Mendon-Union Alumni Banquet Scheduled - Reminder
The 112th Mendon-Union Alumni Banquet has been scheduled for Saturday, May 24, 2008 at the Celina American Legion Hall. A buffet is planned for 5:30 with a business meeting and entertainment to follow. There is a golf scramble on Sunday.
 
 
 


WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE FOR PARKWAY SCHOOLS
 FOR MAY 12 THROUGH MAY 17- Click Here
 

 
 
Rockford Area Development Corporation to Hold Meeting
Coming Thursday, May 15th @ 7:30 PM

The Rockford Area Development Corporation will meet on Thursday, May 15th at 7:30 PM at Rockford Village Hall and Museum. The main topic of discussion will be the swimming pool project. A plan of action needs to be developed. We will also be seeking volunteers to work the ice cream stand with the Rockford Chamber of Commerce for Community Days.

Any interested person is welcome to attend. We are still seeking members. Your help is needed.

 
 
Rockford Recreation $100.00 Weekly Drawing Winners
Rockford Recreation $100.00 weekly drawing winners for February were: 
                                   
Randy Bidwell – Rockford                                   
Bing Scheidt – Rockford                                   
Bob Froning – St. Mary’s                
               
The February 13th ticket was unsold
 




 

March winners were:                 
                             
Dorothy Agler – Ohio City                                   
Jim Shaffer – Mendon                                   
Jean Baltzell – Rockford                                   
Chris Schoenleben – W. Carrollton


 

 

 

April winners were:
                                   
Deb Schumm – Rockford                                 
Carey Sipe – Fort Wayne                                   
Bob Carter – Botkins                                   
Jane Perry – Rockford                                   
Mark King – Rockford



 

 

 

 
 
Bowsher to Speak at Shanes Crossing Historical Society Meeting
Coming Thursday, May 22 @ 7:30 PM
The next meeting of the Shanes Crossing Historical Society Society will be held on Thursday, May 22, at 7:30 pm, in the museum on East Columbia Street in Rockford. The program will feature Mr. Jim Bowsher of Wapakoneta. Mr. Bowsher has been a favorite speaker many times at our meetings and is always very informative and enjoyable. He has collected many historical artifacts over the years and will bring some items to show as he speaks. The public is welcome at our meetings.
 
 
 
Hartman to Perform with Major Cincinnati Theme Park
Former Parkway Graduate Lukas Hartman will be very busy this summer performing! Setting this season apart from last year, where performances were on a variety of professional theatre stages in Cincinnati, Hartman will now be seen on the stages at Coney Island in their live shows!

Lukas was contacted by an agency and asked to audition. Last week he went in and presented a song as well as completed a dance audition. Less than 24 hours later, Lukas was offered a contract for Coney Island Live!

Lukas will be performing four different shows all summer long at the park, two of which will include an 80’s theme and a Children’s show. Rehearsals begin for Coney Island Live! shows this week.  

For more information on Coney Island and all it attractions, visit: www.coneyislandpark.com

 

 
 
 

Dining for the Relay for Life at Juans!
Big Thank You!

The St. Mark Lutheran Church Team for the Relay for Life and the staff of Juan’s Recuerdos Mexican Restaurant  would like to thank everyone who took part in the “Dinning for the Relay for Life” fundraiser held at Juan’s on the evening of Thursday, May 1st.     

Juan’s Recuerdos provided great food and a trophy to the “Server” who brought in the most dollars in from their tips for the American Cancer Society.  A trophy was presented to Joann Merricle who was awarded the prize for her efforts and faithfulness to the relay cause. “Thank you Joann, for your infectious spirit and wonderful sense of humor at our fundraiser.  And to everyone who so graciously gave their time to help our team make an impact against cancer!”

The St. Mark Lutheran team captain, Phyllis Davies was pleased with the event and especially the fact that the community took part in the fun and gave so generously of their time and money.  The money earned at Dining for the Relay for Life will be added to earnings from several fundraising efforts of the St. Mark Lutheran team and will help the team reach their goal for the Relay for Life annual campaign.  Relay for Life is a fun-filled event designed to celebrate survivorship and to raise money for research and programs of the American Cancer Society.  This spring, communities all across the nation will be hosting relay events and encouraging their communities to “Share the Power of Purple”.

Again, thank you for making our Relay Event a community success!!

Thank you for your support Amy Shields; Owner, Juan Recuerdos, Phyllis Davies Team Captain; St. Mark Lutheran Team

 
 
 
New Horizons Community Church Announces Appointment of New Senior Pastor
Click Here
 
 
 
 
CALVARY PRESCHOOL SPRING PROGRAM - Click Here
 
 

May 12, 2008

 
 
Talent Show at Parkway High School on Friday, May 9 Showcases Abilities of Our Students
The Teens at Parkway High School put on the annual talent show firday ~ one to be remembered for years to come. From tap-dancing, to karate, to skippin' rope to singing to guitar-playing, to dancing, to rock bands to acting, the Panthers entertained a crowd of students, staff and parents. Nikki Fox caught all the action - Click Here for her pictures.
 
 
Nancy Leighner is the Newest Face in the Crowd Winner
Nancy Leighner is a loyal Panther fan whether it is her great niece or great nephew playing or the son of a friend. she enjoys them all and won a $10 gift certificate for Java Hut smoothies from Sheila Baltzell at the Parkway  Independent.
 
 
 
 
Baltzell - Wilkinson Families Celebrate Birth of First Child ~ Click Here for the Details
 
 
 
 
 
 

May 10-11, 2008

 
 
 
 
COACH BLACK TO BE INDUCTED INTO THE ACME HALL OF FAME
Former Parkway Baseball Coach Don Black will be inducted into the ACME Hall of Fame this Saturday, May 10th, at a banquet held at the Elks in Van Wert.  Coach Black's career spanned 33 years and his contributions to ACME, Pony, and Little League Baseball were immeasurable.  Highlighting his career were 395 wins; 11 sectional championships; 6 district championships; and, 2 regional runners-up.  He was inducted into the Ohio High School Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 1986 and coached in the 1982 Ohio All-Star game.  Coach Black was not only an outstanding coach, but was well known as a gentleman, both on and off the field.  Tragically, an accident ended his life in the fall of 1985.  His wife, Gloria, and sons, Rick, Scott, and Monte will be guests of honor at the induction.  A banquet meal will be served for family and friends at 7:00pm.  The public is invited to attend the induction ceremonies to begin at 7:30pm.  Other inductees will be long time ACME director Tim Harless;  former major leaguer Jeff Davenport;  and in remembrance, Art Mosier, a well known umpire from the area.
 
 
 
Parkway FFA Chapter held their 79th Annual FFA Banquet - Click Here
 
 
 
The Girls JV softball team will play Crestview on Monday, May 12 at Crestview At 5 p.m.
 
 
 
Tuesday, May 6th - The Panthers traveled south to Versailles to take on the Tigers.

Click here for more action shots by Pat Agler
 
 

Celebrate May Days at Wright State University­Lake Campus
and Come to Bella's for Guest Waiter's Night

Celina, Ohio ­ During the week of May 12-15, Wright State -Lake Campus will celebrate May Days. Activities will include a Poker Walk, a Guitarist, a Hypnotist, and a DJ and Mud Volleyball. On May 15 in the Crown Amphitheatre at 5:30 p.m., Craig Muhlenkamp, a Lake Campus student from Coldwater who placed third in the Ohio Has Talent! competition, will treat the community to his Juggling Act. Come watch Craig juggle fruit, an ax, bowling balls and more! After Craig's act, the community is welcome to Bella¹s Italian Grille, where Lake Campus faculty and staff will participate in Guest Waiter's Night to help raise funds for Western Ohio Educational Foundation Scholarships.

For more information about May Days, contact Student Activities Director Steve Moor at Steven.Moor@wright.edu or at 419-586-0314. The complete schedule is in the online calendar at www.wright.edu/lake.

To ask about Guest Waiter¹s Night, please contact WOEF Development Officer Tom Knapke at Thomas.Knapke@wright.edu or 419-586-0389.
 
 
 
Mercer County Historical Museum to Hold Prehistoric Artifact Exhibit

The Indian Relic Collectors will be hosting their Annual Prehistoric Artifact Exhibit at the Mercer County Historical Museum Lawn, the Sunday, June 29th at 1:00 - 4:00 p.m..  The event is free and open to the public.

For information, call 419-678-2614. histalig@bright.net

 
 
 
In the Operating Room…(well, sort of)
Have you ever wondered how doctors and nurses get organized in the operating room as they prepare for a surgery? The afternoon junior Health Careers class at Vantage got the chance to experience what it’s like in the operating room (almost). Mrs. Sylvia Pickett, a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) from Mercy Western Hills Hospital in Cincinnati, visited the class on Friday, May 2. Click here for the rest of the story.
 
 


Red Cross Swim Lesson Sign-up at the Van Wert YWCA
 

With all the cold weather behind us and summer quickly approaching it’s time to think about our summer fun in the sun around the water. Is your child water oriented or are they afraid to get wet? Let us instruct your child(ren) in swim lessons and water safety. Each session is full of educational facts to keep those little ones safe around the water.

           
The YWCA of Van Wert is now taking sign-ups for our spring session of Red Cross Swim Lessons. We offer classes for all ages from Infant to the advanced swimmer or maybe you prefer a Private swim class. For more information please contact your YWCA at 419-238-6639

 
 
 
Applications Accepted at Calvary Preschool for Fall Program 

Lead Pastor Chad Chute of Calvary Evangelical Church shared the Easter story with the boys and girls from Calvary Preschool.  Thank you Chad for sharing with us.  Calvary Preschool is accepting applications for the fall program.  We have openings for 3’s , 4’s and 5’s in the mornings from 8:30am – 11:30am.  Call 567-259-3103 to ask questions or make an appointment

 
 
 
 

May 9, 2008

 
Cinco de Mayo Celebration with Mexican Buffet and DJ ~ Donation Only
Come to the Rockford American Legion from 5-8 pm for delicious Mexican food, buffet-style and listen to DJ Brad Now. The buffet is being offered for donations only.
It's a Cinco de Mayo Celebration ~ Come and eat and enjoy the music!
 
 
 
The Junior Varsity and Varsity Baseball Games with Defiance have been CANCELLED for this evening, Friday, May 9th.
 
 
 
Payne Ball Association to Host Opening Day
Featuring  Games, Pulled Port Sandwiches and Silent Auction
Coming Saturday, May 10th @ 9:00 AM

The Payne Ball Association will be hosting its opening day on Saturday, May 10, at the Payne Community Park. The day will feature 11 games beginning at 9:00 a.m.

The day will also featured pulled pork sandwiches or dinners provided by Bob Slade. 

There will also be a silent auction including items from Burger King, Arby's, Bob Evans, Pizza Hut, Pappa John's, Van Wert Bedrooms, Slusher's Jewelry, Citizens National Bank, Kentucky Fried Chicken, McDonald's, Dairy Queen, Laudick's Jewelry, Taco Bell, Subway, Westwood Car Wash, Greve Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep, Lee Kinstle, Sycamore Ice Cream Shop, Orchard Tree, Zublee's, First Financial Bank, JTS Automotive, Pleasant Valley Golf Course, Wildcat Creek Farms, Grant's, Marcos Pizza, Jim's Pizza, Woodburn Lanes, Golden Corral, Buffalo Wild Wings, Cracker Barrel, Steak-N-Shake, B'Antonio's, Menards, Texas Roadhouse, Wendy's, Ruby Tuesday's, Aunt Millie's Bakeries, Kroger, Don Halls Restaurants, Frisch's Big Boy, Ralphie's Sports Eatery, WZOM Radio and Putt Putt Golf and Games. 

Additional items will be available from the Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Cleveland Cavaliers, Kings Island, Cincinnati Reds, Fun Spot Amusement Park, Columbus Blue Jackets, Auburn Cord Deusenberg Museum, Toledo Mud Hens, Kalahari Resort and specially signed items by Jon Niese (New York Mets) and Kory Lichtensteiger (Denver Broncos).

 

 
 

May 8, 2008

 
 
Parkway Middle School Students Participate in Trip to Wilds
The middle school students went on an overnight field trip to the Wilds in Cumberland, Ohio last Friday, May 2 and came back Saturday, May 3, 2008, according to teacher Nick Steinke. "We took 40 students from Parkway Middle School.  The programs that we participated in were: Canoeing, Stream Exploration, Hiking, Trap-Setting, and a Safari Tour.  The Conservation camp rests on 10,000 acres that was formerly used as a strip coal mine. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This was a free Honda-sponsored trip to the Wilds.     
 

 
 
Rockford Village Council Meets on May 6
The Rockford Village Council met in regular session on Tuesday, May 6. Items of business were varied. Guest Missy Gehle, local girl scout leader of Troup 585 spoke about a new service project they are proposing at the corner of Main St., and Columbia. The vacant lot has been chosen as a spot to place a sitting park. Three benches, two end tables a  removable patio, bushes, a flagpole, flowers and solar lights will be part of the park. Funding will come from the sale of personalized bricks and private donations.  The lot belongs to Terry Shaffer.

Len Archibald, a resident of Rockford, presented a proposal to create a Summer Drama Club for the are youth. Calling on the 14-19 year old age group, Archibald would use his drama background to provide these youth with drama basics, skits, and eventually culminate in a play featuring the students for the start of the new school year. Mr. Sherrick, Mr. Twigg and Mrs. Wagner will all be helping with this project.

Jeff Long reported that the Front Street completion date is nearing. He estimates 3 more weeks.

Council also posted a notice to anyone wishing to speak at council minutes and set time limit and place to stand during the talk.

Much more happened. Read it for yourself ~ minutes provided by Lisa Kuhn, Fiscal Officer

 
 
 
Yoders and Wagoners Celebrate New Son
Click Here for his details.
 
 
 
Planting with Jesus
Pat Agler captured this unusual and hopeful picture while shooting athletes at the Parkway Middle School Track Meet on Monday, May 5, 2008.
 
 
 

Ribfest Coming to the Mercer County Fairground on Saturday, May 17th

THE MERCER COUNTY FAIR AND THE GRAND LAKE MARINERS HAVE JOINED TOGETHER TO ANNOUNCE THE SECOND ANNUAL MERCER COUNTY RIBFEST.  THIS JOINT EFFORT WILL BE ON SATURDAY MAY 17TH 2008 AT THE MERCER COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS CELINA, OHIO.  GATES OPEN AT 11:00 AM WITH  $3 ADMISSION CHARGED.

THE DAY STARTS WITH A PLEASURE HORSE SHOW, BOAT SHOW, AND CLASSIS CAR CRUISE-IN.  THE RIBFEST 5-K RUN IS AT NOON, A 60/40 RAFFLE, HOT SHOT CLOWN, GREASED PIG CHASE, AND A RIB EATING CONTEST W/FIRE DEPARTMENT COMPETITION.  THERE WILL BE 10 RIB VENDORS SERVING DELICIOUS RIBS.  YOU CAN GET A SAMPLE OF ALL OR PICK YOUR FAVORITE AND GET A SLAB.  DON’T FORGET TO VOTE ON YOUR FAVORITE WITH THE BALLOT GIVEN AT ADMISSION.

ALONG WITH ALL OF THIS WE HAVE LIVE MUSIC PERFORMED BY THE FOLLOWING GREAT BANDS.  BANDS START AT 2PM WITH SAND WALKER (FORMERLY TWO FEET SHY) FOLLOWED BY IMPULSE, BORROWED TIME, AND RED BALL JETS PLAY TILL 11:30.

 CAMPING IS AVAILABLE FOR FRIDAY AND SATURDAY NIGHT BY CALLING THE NUMBER BELOW.

WAYNE MILLER FROM THE MARINERS AND STEVE SCHULTE FROM THE FAIRGROUNDS WELCOME ALL TO THIS GREAT FOOD AND FUN EVENT.  ANY QUESTIONS YOU CAN CALL 419-586-3239.

 

 
 
Calvary Preschoolers Learn About Rabbits

Amber Wiseman came to Calvary Preschool in March to share her rabbits with the children.  Calvary Preschool is located at 10686 Van Wert Decatur Road and is accepting applications for the fall.  For more information call 567-259-3103 and ask for Judy Fox, Administrator.

 
 
 

May 7, 2008

 
 
 
Kathy Rutledge Retires from Colonial Nursing Center
Colonial Nursing Center would like to congratulate  Kathy Rutledge on her recent retirement. Staff and residents gathered in the  main dinning room on Friday April 18, 2008 to help Kathy celebrate. A gift of a  t-shirt was given to her with pictures of staff and residents ironed on, so she  will always remember the wonderful time she had working at the facility.

Kathy (McGough) Rutledge is married to Robert "Bob" Rutledge and has two children, Rob, a football coach at the University of Michigan and Jennifer, also an employee of Colonial.

 
 
 
Parkway Girls Softball Team Plays Versailles Tigers in Hometown Action
on Monday, May 5

Click Here for the score and more great shots by Nikki Fox

 
 
 
Cody Reichard - Celina Native Named Most Valuable Player and More ~ North American Hockey League
Celina Native, Cody Reichard attended school at Celina, getting his start at West Elementary and learned to play hockey at Grand Slam in Celina where teams played for many years before they closed.  He would have graduated from CHS a few years ago. He decided to move to Michigan to pursue his hockey dreams during his senior year. After graduation in Michigan,  he was drafted to play for the Indiana Ice and then was picked up by the Fairbanks, Alaska Ice Dogs this past season 2007-2008.

The North American Hockey League recently announced their Most Valuable Player, Forward of the Year, Defenseman of the Year and Goaltender of the Year, along with its All - NAHL Team, for the 2007-08 season.

Fairbanks Ice Dogs goaltender Cody Reichard was named Most Valuable Player and Goaltender of the Year. He posted a 33-15-2 record in the regular season to complement a 2.05 goals-against average and a.935 save percentage. His 33 wins led the entire NAHL, as did his seven shutouts. The Ice Dogs also advanced to the South Division finals of the Robertson Cup Playoffs.

Reichard, who is 21, plans to attend Miami University (CCHA) for the next season.  His parents are Mark and Barb Reichard of rural Celina.

If you'd like to congratulate Cody - his email is: codyr39@hotmail.com

If you'd like to view the website... go to  http://nahl.com/news/story.cfm?id=477

 
 
Parkway Graduate Makes Video for Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine Website

Dr. Thomas Baltzell, DVM, and Dr. Heather Fees, DVM, Banfield Veterinary Clinic Charter Practice Owners were selected to make a video for the Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine Website for children interested in veterinary medicine.  The doctors' interview is on the opening home page and the site has lots of interactive content (games and such) which is both educational and fun for kids.

Teachers will also be happy to learn that the content on the website provides tools for K-12 science curriculum that meets the Benchmarks and Indicators by Standards of two of the six standards of the Ohio's Academic Content Standards. These two standards include Scientific Inquiry and Scientific Ways of Knowing standards. The indicated Benchmarks and Indicators by Standards can be found on pages 42, 44, 80, and 87 of the Ohio Academic Content Standards.
 

Tom is originally from Rockford and is married to Dr. Ann Bonvillian Baltzell, DVM and is the son of Larry and Sheila Baltzell, and grandson of Martha Baltzell and Virginia Wood.
Click here: 
http://vet.osu.edu/4018.htm

 
 
 

May 6, 2008

 
 
 
Parkway Girls Softball Game Cancellations and Changes - Click Here
 
 
AAU/OYB Team Brings Home 8th Annual Toledo Basketball Challenge
Team Includes Two Local Parkway Players
An area AAU/OYB team, which includes two players from Parkway started their season this year by winning the 8th Annual Toledo Basketball Challenge in Perrysburg , Ohio on April 26th and 27th.  The team went 5-0 for the weekend with some very exciting basketball games being played.  The team consists of Back Row Coach Steve Prenger (St Henry)  Austin Arnett (5), and Derek Dicke (2) both of New Knoxville, Spencer Niekamp (40) St Henry, Michael Sommer (21) Celina, middle row Brent Prenger (23) St Henry, Tyler Neal (1) Bluffton, Craig Bills (22) and Josh Fisher (3) Parkway and in the front Evan Prenger (St Henry) and G-Baby Andrew Arnett (New Knoxville) are the managers.  The team is called the "DUCKS" and their next tournament will be at Lakota High School - Cincinnati May 9th, 10th & 11th 2008.  The team formally called "Buckle-Up and MAC-All Stars" has won the Lakota tournament the last two years and has high hopes of bringing home the Championship trophy again this year.
 
 


Parkway Boys Basketball Camp Registration Form - Click Here

 

 
 
 
 
 


Mendon Council Minutes April 29, 2008 - Click Here 
 

 
 
 
Parkway Boys Baseball VS Fort Laramie on Saturday, May 5th

Click here for more Action Shots by Nikki Fox
 
 
 
THE OHIO STATE ALUMNI CLUB OF VAN WERT/PAULDING COUNTIES WINS AWARD

On April 28, 2008, the 5th annual "Spring for Scholarships" dinner and auction sponsored by The Ohio State University at Lima was held at the Shawnee Country Club. 

The Ohio State Alumni Club of Van Wert/Paulding Counties was awarded the Judy Von Blon Buckeye Spirit Award at the event. This award goes to an area OSU Alumni Club who works diligently promoting The Ohio State University.

 Accepting the traveling banner on behalf of the club were Alice Schaufelberger, left; and Pam Herminghuysen, right. Shown in the center is Judy Von Blon, for whom the award is named. 

The speaker for the evening was Dr. E. Gordon Gee, President of The Ohio State University. 

Complete information about the club is available at www.osuvwp.org
 
 
 
 
St. Paul's United Methodist Church Holds Mother/Daughter Tea - Click Here
 
 
 

May 5, 2008

 
 
 
Front Street Project Moving Along in Rockford
Tumbusch Construction from St. Henry has the contract for the Front Street project. Here are some pictures of the progress.
 

 

 
 
Parkway Girls Softball Wins in Shut-out Over New Bremen Cardinals in Hometown Action on Thursday, May 1


Click Here for Photos by Nikki Fox, new Face in the Crowd winner and the score!

 
 
Face in the Crowd Winner Picks Out Prize At D & L Classic Woodworking

Randy Shellabarger, Panther Fan from Rockford, was photographed at a recent baseball game, watching his son Chad play. His prize was an apricot flavored Beanpod candle from the collection of D & L Classic Woodworking and the Olde Rockford Hardware. Thank you Randy!  Thank you Dave & Nancy Salway!

 
 
Four New Babies to Report ~ Click Here for details on the births of:

Whitaker's New Son; Langenkamp's  New Daughter; Stover's New Daughter; Bird's New Daughter

 
 
 

Prayers and meditations are needed - please click here to lend your support

 
 
 

May 3-4, 2008

 
 
 

WEEKLY SPORTS SCHEDULE FOR PARKWAY SCHOOLS
 FOR MAY 2 THROUGH MAY 7 - Click Here
 
 
 

Parkway Preschool Registration Night

Parkway Preschool is gearing up for the 2008-2009 school year.  In order to get a jump-start on the year, we are inviting all parents of preschool-aged children to “Registration Night” on May 5 from 7 - 8:00 p.m.  This night will give parents the opportunity to come to the Parkway Elementary School to return the registration form, pay the  registration fee, meet the teachers, see the room, pick up the packet of forms, and have your questions answered about preschool.   

If you have any questions, please call Parkway Elementary School at 419-363-3045 #ext. 720.

 
 
 
Vantage Students Visit Haiti…
And Haiti Visits Vantage!
BY PRINCIPAL KEITH RYDELL
Two Vantage students and three staff members ventured to Cap Haitien and Bordes, Haiti for a week long trip from April 6 to April 14, 2008. The Vantage delegation included students Justin Davis (Interactive Media/Ottoville) and A.J. Wolford (Jr. Medical Office Management/Paulding), along with staff members Peg Bollenbacher, Sonya Yenser-Hammon, and Keith Rydell. Throughout the week, the Vantage team was able to experience Haitian culture, present some Haitians with American products that are considered rare in Haiti, as well as work together to strengthen the partnership between Vantage and a vocational school in Bordes, Haiti.

Five years ago, after hearing Bordes Superintendent, Marius Turienne, speak to Vantage social studies students about Haitian culture, the Vantage student body voted to “adopt” the Bordes school and work hand-in-hand with them to provide vocational services to its students. They would organize this endeavor through a student formed Haiti Committee. This original committee began with two advisors and twelve students. During the second year of its existence, the Haiti Committee partnered with the Van Wert Rotary Club and associated itself as a Rotary Interact Club. While the primary purpose of the Interact Club was to strengthen the partnership between Vantage and the Bordes School, they also agreed to tackle service projects that would benefit local constituents. To date, the Vantage Interact Club has almost 175 members.

One major accomplishment of the Interact Club was establishing and maintaining a carpentry program at the Bordes School. By creating a carpentry program at the Bordes School, Vantage has taken an integral role in helping teach Haitians skills that will benefit them for their entire lifetime. Over the last five years, Vantage students have raised nearly $25,000 for the Bordes carpentry program, while also making annual trips to Haiti. Peg Bollenbacher, social studies teacher at Vantage, said “Adopting the school at Bordes was a student-led initiative. Our Vantage students wanted to reach out and work with Bordes students to provide opportunities that they otherwise would not have”.

The primary purpose of the trip this year was to conduct the graduation of the Bordes’ Carpentry students. Students and staff members delivered the funds that were raised this year, and once in Haiti, purchased lumber and tools to help sustain their five year partnership with the carpentry program at Bordes. Members of the Bordes community were very hospitable to the Vantage team. During the week, we shared Haitian meals with our hosts, Marius Turienne and his family. Several trips were made to the Bordes School to deliver supplies, complete minor renovations to the school, and share stories between Haitian and Vantage students. Also, in an effort to break down language barriers, Vantage students developed scrapbooks and photo albums of both Vantage and Bordes students. These were presented to the Bordes students, and it was clear that they were grateful of our gift to them. Furthermore, The Vantage Interact Club purchased 19 sets of hand tools, one for each Bordes graduate, so they could have materials to work with after graduation. The Interact Club felt it was essential, after the graduates received their training, to have the necessary equipment to market their new trade.

Bordes members and Vantage students and staff also visited the ruins of King Henri Christophe’s Palace and Citadel (fort). The Vantage delegation finalized the week by participating in two Creole church services. At the conclusion of the church services, Vantage team members conducted the graduation, which included the issuing of tools, diplomas, and congratulations to the Bordes carpentry students.

At the conclusion of the week, every person who participated in the trip was awestruck at the hospitality of the Haitian people. Without a doubt, participants grew both as individuals and as a service organization through their encounters in Haiti. Everyone who went on the trip believed that their experiences have made them become more conscientious, concerned and caring people.
As a special treat, Pastor Marius and his wife, Venisia, had the opportunity to come to the United States and visit Vantage on Friday, May 2. At a student assembly, Marius answered questions about everyday life in Haiti, as well as the food shortage. When asked how Haitians live with so little, Marius replied, “If your friend has, they share with you. If you have, you share with your friends.”

If your group would like more information or a presentation about the Vantage Interact Club and their Haiti Project, please call Peg Bollenbacher at 419-238-5411 ext. 182.

CAPTION 1:
The Vantage Haiti team: (back row) American Studies teacher Peg Bollenbacher, English teacher Sonya Yenser-Hammon, Justin Davis, AJ Wolford, and Principal Keith Rydell stands behind Superintendent of the Bordes School Marius Turrene and his wife, Venisia during their visit to Vantage.
 
CAPTION 2: Vantage American Studies teacher Peg Bollenbacher (left) joins members of the Van Wert Rotary Club Wayne Kilton, Barb Thompson, Gary Taylor, Stan Agler and Dee Whitcraft as they welcome Marius Turrene and his wife, Venisia to Van Wert.
 
 

Vantage Board Hears More About OSFC Renovation Project -
Click Here

 
 
 
 
Laurel's of Shane Hill May Birthday List

Hensley,Lonnie 5-9
Clouse, Mildred 5-15
Gibson,Margery 5-20
Lee,Haji 5-25
Stetler,Berneice 5-26
Walker,Kevin 5-30

Cards may be sent to the resident at: 10731 St. Rt. 118, Rockford, OH   45882

 
 
 
WALKING TO AID LOCAL PREGNANCY RESOURCE CENTER & TEEN HOUSING PROGRAM
Walk For Life '08, an event to benefit Harbor House and Elizabeth Pregnancy Services in Celina, has been slated to take place Mothers Day weekend on Saturday, May 10 at 9:00 AM. The annual event--which began in 1995--also coincides with National Birth Mothers Day, which honors women who have chosen to make adoption plans for their children.

This year's event will begin and end at Elizabeth Pregnancy Services, 123 E. Fayette St. in Celina. Following the Walk, the center will be open for guided tours. Free snacks and refreshments will also be available.

People interested in walking are encouraged to pick up a sponsor pledge form at their local church. Pledge forms are also available online at [LINK: http://www.walkforlife08.com/] www.WalkforLife08.com, by calling Elizabeth Pregnancy Services at (419) 586-5941, or by email at [LINK: mailto:life@harborlifeministries.org] life@harborlifeministries.org.

Walk for Life '08 is a non-athletic, two-mile walk so people of all ages and any level of physical fitness may participate. In many cases, entire family units including small children take part in the event.

Free custom Walk for Life '08 T-shirts have been offered as an incentive for individuals who obtain $150 or more in pledges. A custom sweatshirt will be awarded for those walkers who are able to reach the $250 mark in pledges.

Pledge money does not need to be collected by a participating walker. After the walk Harbor Life Ministries will mail pledge reminders to any sponsors who choose not to pay their pledge in advance along with a thank you and a return envelope.

There is no predetermined rain date in case of inclement weather. Walkers can choose to either walk at the regularly scheduled
time--umbrellas and raingear are suggested--or take an independent two-mile walk at a different time/date, then mail any completed pledge forms in to the address found on the form.
 
 
 
 
 
 

May 2, 2008

 


PARKWAY
GAME UPDATES ~ PER ATHLETIC DIRECTOR DOUG HUGHES - CLICK HERE

 

 
 
Rockford Named Tree City for 19th Time
Rockford has once again been recognized as a Tree City USA at the Northwest Ohio Awards ceremony. Rockford has been honored with this nationally recognized award 19 times. To qualify, a community must have an ongoing program to improve the quality of life in the town by managing street trees. They must have a tree ordinance, an active tree commission or department, a comprehensive forestry program supported by a minimum of $2 per capita, and an annual Arbor Day proclamation and activity. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry helps guide a community to become qualified. The tree committee in Rockford includes. The Rockford village council received a letter of congratulations on the award.
 
 
Click Here for Van Wert Common Pleas Court ~ Criminal Arraignments by Baliff Dennis Kimmet ~ April 30, 2008
 
21st Century Club Meets in April ~ Continues With Theme of Member Interests
The 21st Century Club met in Rockford at the Presbyterian Church for their regular monthly meeting on April 22. After the regular business was attended-to, the group heard a presentation by 30 year member Sheila Baltzell. Drawing on her interest and passion for the news, she explained how she started her online newspaper, The Parkway Independent. She cites her mother being a newspaper reporter as her first knowledge of news and remembers newspapers always being in their house on the family farm. She read them as a child starting with the comic strips. Sheila always enjoyed writing and while in college at Wright State University, she helped her husband, Larry, and business partners, Gary and Jean Baltzell, at The Rockford Press by working on the Rockford Press Newspaper. For a couple of years, she helped then Mayor Eugene Steiner with promotions and news releases for the village. Eventually the Rockford Press newspaper was put to bed for the last time and no longer printed. After college she started teaching English and journalism at Celina High School where she also was the yearbook and newspaper advisors. Then in 2004, she felt a need in the Parkway community for a newspaper that centered around the three villages of Rockford, Willshire and Mendon. She built the website and has been working on it for four years now.  She explained that much of the news comes from the good people of the community who want to promote their school, club, activities, sports, children, families and much more. She explained the method for writing a newspaper arti