Everyday Heroes 2012

THE NEWS SUN THE HERALD REPUBLICAN StarThe

HEROESEveryday2012

Real People • Real Stories • Real Victories

Since 1911Over 100 Years

2 Everyday Heroes kpcnews.com • ©KPC Media Group Inc. September 13, 2012

Northeast Indiana is a trulywonderful place to live for so manyreasons.

In the pages of this publication, wewill show you just a few of thosereasons — a few of the EverydayHeroes that live in our area.

At KPC Media Group, we are soproud that there are so manywonderful people who give their timeand talents to make our hometownsbetter places to live, and we arehonored to introduce you to thesepeople. They are your friends andneighbors, people who work orvolunteer at the places you visit.

We thank each and every one ofthese people for their service to ourcommunities. You are what makesnortheast Indiana great!

KPC Media Group

Welcome, andthank you!

BY BOB [email protected]

ROME CITY — It wasn’t until recently,when someone pointed it out to her, thatJan Harkner-Abbs of Rome City realizedsomething about her life.

Someone said to her, “Everything youdo is about helping people,” she recalled.Then she realized that was true, and thatit’s where her passion is.

For Harkner-Abbs, that passion startedwith training dogs to help people, andevolved into a rescue dog trainingoperation that reaches to points across theUnited States, along with teaching specialeducation students and working to help inemergencies with the Orange TownshipFire Department.

Dog training for police, tracking,obedience and protection work had been ahobby since she was 7, Harkner-Abbs said.She and husband Jim Abbs, both northeastIndiana natives, had moved to Wisconsin.

“In 1992, when we moved back fromWisconsin, the fire chief in South Bend

found out I had working dogs,” Harkner-Abbs said. “He asked me if I wouldbecome involved in training, since heneeded search and rescue dogs.”

The work with the dogs led Harkner-Abbs into emergency medical work withthe Orange Township Fire Department, andthat in turn led to being on the volunteerfire department.

Meanwhile, the dog training also tookoff, Harkner-Abbs said. “It started outsmall and then it escalated,” she said.“From there it’s snowballed.”

Harkner-Abbs was deployed to use dogsto help with rescue and recovery effortsfrom Hurricane Katrina in Louisiana in2004 and the hurricanes in Galveston,Texas, in 2005.

She’s the Search and Rescue K9 coordi-nator for the Indiana Department ofHomeland Security District 3 Task Force.

She’s also trained dogs for arson andsearch and rescue purposes, and still does,through the Abbs K9 Training and

Harkner-Abbs helps with teaching, dogs, rescues

Jan Harkner-Abbs sits with her dog, Bodo, one of the dogs she’s trained forspecialized work to help in emergencies. Harkner-Abbs is active at the nationallevel with her rescue dogs, and locally with special education and emergencyefforts.

BOB BRALEY

See HARKNER-ABBS page 3

Kendallville • 260-347-1158

www.hoslerrealty.com

A SPECIAL THANK YOUTO

VOLUNTEERS

Ligonier Monument Company

“Memory is one gift of God that death cannot take away”

“Honoring the lives of those you’ve loved since 1857”

260-894-31611274 Lincolnway South, Ligonier, IN

(We are across from historic Oak Park Cemetery)

10 PERCENT OFFany monument purchased between

September 13-September 30

September 13, 2012 ©KPC Media Group Inc. • kpcnews.com Everyday Heroes 3

Boarding Center, which also evaluatesproblem dogs.

So what else does Harkner-Abbs do?She’s a consultant for special needs

children through the Northeast IndianaSpecial Education Cooperative, and hasworked in the field 33 years.

She’s coached boys and girls highschool pole vault at East Noble HighSchool for 10 years.

Since 1997, she’s been a firefighter, firedepartment instructor, safety officer andrescue SCUBA diver for the OrangeTownship Fire Department, for which shecurrently works as an emergency firstresponder.

Harkner-Abbs loves working with thedogs because, whether they rescuesomeone or assist in recovering a body,they help the person’s loved ones. “Inevery situation, the dogs will help bringclosure to families,” she said.

One of her most vivid memories is ofice rescue efforts on Sylvan Lake.

“We were put in a situation facing everypossible barrier and having to work

through that to get those people off theice,” she said. While lives have been lost,tragedy has driven the department to getbetter training and equipment to help saveothers down the line.

What volunteers do isn’t possiblewithout the support of others around them,such as employers and family, Harkner-Abbs said. She was deployed for 30 days ata time at the hurricane sites, and still hadher job waiting for her when she cameback. That made the work possible, shesaid.

“We forget that our communities,employers, friends and family volunteer tokeep things going while we are gone. Theyare the real heroes,” Harkner-Abbs said.

“There are many people in thiscommunity that help others in time ofneed,” Harkner-Abbs said.

Her favorite memories are of inspiring alittle girl to be what she wants to be as anadult, without gender restrictions, andwatching young people she’s worked withgrow up to be, as she said, “wonderfulpeople who also volunteer and inspireothers.”

Harkner-Abbs’s advice is to volunteer.“Everyone has the ability to make thiscommunity great.”

From page 2

HARKNER-ABBS

Marge Malone of Howe is a businessowner, but her real passion lies with four-legged, furry friends. She is one of thefounders of the Animal Welfare associa-tion, and she co-founded Ark AnimalRescue and Adoption Inc., which is nowresponsible for animal care and control forLaGrange County through Ark AnimalSanctuary, where she serves as executivedirector.

FAVORITE VOLUNTEER OR SERVICEACTIVITY: Rescuing animals. Ark startedworking with the LaGrange CountyAnimal Shelter animals in 2005 because atthat time very few animals were beingadopted — most were euthanized. SinceArk’s involvement with the shelter, noadoptable animals have been euthanizeddue to an aggressive program to providemedical care and adoption facilitation. Asof April 1 of this year, the LaGrangeCounty Commissioners contracted withArk to run the shelter, which has beenrenamed Ark Animal Sanctuary — a safeplace for animals. Ark is a nonprofitorganization that is governed by a fantasticvolunteer board of directors. We have beenblessed to have the people with thenecessary stills to volunteer their time.

In addition to helping sanctuary animalsthat are homeless through no fault of theirown, Ark helps people who are in difficultfinancial situations to keep their animals athome by providing food through our ArkPet Food Pantry. As of July 1, 2012, petfood has been provided to 285 familiesconsisting of 629 dogs and 475 cats. Thismany family pets have been allowed tostay with their families rather than have tobe given up because of a lack of food tofeed them. An active program is beingpursued to make sure animals are spayedor neutered to bring down the number ofhomeless pets in LaGrange County.

REASON FOR BEING INVOLVED/SERVINGOTHERS: When you have a passion forsomething you can’t help but be involved.Trust in God to open the doors and thenhave the faith to walk through.

PERSON WHO HELPED TO SHAPE MYLIFE: My family absolutely helped shapemy life. We loved animals and my motherhad an innate ability to take of anythingthat needed caring for – kids and animalsalike.

FAVORITE INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE, BOOK,SONG, ETC.: Philippians 4:13 – “I can do

all things through Christ who strengthensme.” and “A hundred years from now, itwill not matter the sort of house I lived in,what my bank account was, or the car Idrove – but the world may be differentbecause I was important in the life of theanimals and the creatures on this earth.” –Author unknown.

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE SEEKING TOBECOME INVOLVED: My advice for peopleseeking to be involved is follow yourheart. If something piques your interest,find out if there is an organization workingto address the problem. If there isn’t, startyour own organization and find enoughlike-minded people to help you. If you’repart of the solution, you may be part of theproblem.

COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING SENTENCE: Iam passionate about … animals becausethey give so much and ask so little. Allthey require is food, water, shelter andsomeone to love them. In return, they giveyou unconditional love, which you canonly get from one other source — God.

Marge Malone

Marge Malone and friends

PATRICK REDMOND HIXSON SAND & GRAVEL, INC.

2 LOCATIONS6178 CR 7, Garrett

(260) 357-4477 • Fax: (260) 357-0447Kimmell

(260) 635-2280

Classic City

Automotive

503 Michigan Ave. • Auburn925-1400

Proudly Saluting Our Heroes

Ken Wilcoxson of Auburn has volunteeredin many spheres, including Indian VillageChurch of God food bank, Auburn CordDuesenberg Automobile Museum, BoyScouts, Kiwanis and Gideons, according toCathy Armstrong, who nominated him as anEveryday Hero.

FAVORITE VOLUNTEER OR SERVICEACTIVITY: Probably the food bank at ourchurch (Indian Village) because that givesfood to people who otherwise would behurting. The other things I do are nice that butone’s the one where we’re really supplying aneed.

REASON FOR BEING INVOLVED/SERVINGOTHERS: As far as Scouting, when I was aboy, somebody was doing that for me, so Ifelt you have to pay it ahead. As far as theKiwanis, that’s a way we can help thecommunity. We’re geared mainly towardsyouth. I’ve got a lot of faith in our youth; Iknow people bad-mouth them, but I don’t feelthat way. They’re not any worse than wewere.

PERSON WHO HELPED TO SHAPE MY LIFE:My father. I can’t tell you how many times Iremember him stopping helping somebody

with a flat tire, helping them out of a ditch,stuff like that. Or a neighbor’s doing a job andmy dad would say, “I think he could use ahand,” and he’d go over and help them out.He was always doing that. Really, he shouldbe getting this, not me.

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE SEEKING TO BECOMEINVOLVED: A lot of people say they don’t havethe time, and that’s not right. You have time todo what you want to do. You can find time todo stuff. You don’t have to spend 24 hours a

day. If you volunteer a coupledays a week or a couple hoursa week, you’d be surprisedhow much spare time you’vegot that could be turned intosomething besides twiddlingthumbs.

COMPLETE THE FOLLOWINGSENTENCE: I am passionateabout … Jesus Christ, becausehe died for my sins. I hadpeople from way back thattold me stuff about Him, andunfortunately I took sort of acircus route to get there, but Ilook back and I can see timeseven when I wasn’t followingHim that He was there and gotme through stuff that I shouldhave been gone, and Hewanted me to stick around anddo some volunteer work.


Elaine Hostetler of LaGrange is aretired middle school teacher, who retiredin 2008 after more than 37 years teachinglanguage arts. She volunteers for Habitatfor Humanity in LaGrange County.

FAVORITE VOLUNTEER OR SERVICEACTIVITY: LaGrange County Habitat forHumanity Publicity committee.

REASON FOR BEING INVOLVED/SERVINGOTHERS: Families need a home. Several ofour partner families had been students inmy classroom and then, in the nextgeneration, I taught children of Habitatpartner families. Of course, the homecontext is a vital component ofeducational success. That’s what Habitatis about: providing stability for familiesby enabling them to purchase a home.And the families and the 100 or sovolunteers involved in each home worktogether and learn from each other;everyone wins. My role in publicity hasbeen an amazing learning process for me;building on my language arts background,I have had the opportunity to write, tophotograph, and to create tools tocommunicate our events and our mission.Publicity’s scope has grown andbroadened over my 15 years of involve-ment—from posters and newsletters toalso include a Facebook page and awebsite.

PERSON WHO HELPED TO SHAPE MYLIFE: Mrs. Breitigan, my grade 3 andgrade 6 teacher. She taught it all: reading,writing, arithmetic, social studies, science,music, art, and life—including lifelongvalues and the importance of community(both within and outside of the school).

FAVORITE INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE, BOOK,SONG, ETC.: Life is like riding a bicycle.To keep your balance, you must keepmoving. (Albert Einstein)

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE SEEKING TOBECOME INVOLVED: Find something thatyou love and believe in, and pursue it.Volunteerism is a lifelong learningprocess. It’s a cliché that “it is in givingthat we receive” because it’s true.

COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING SENTENCE:I am passionate about … families;families need a consistent address, fromwhich they can put down roots.

Elaine Hostetler

Elaine Hostetler

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Ken Wilcoxson

Ken Wilcoxson

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

TRANSMISSIONService • Repair

Rebuild24 month/24,000 mile on Transmission Rebuild

• Complete Diagnostic Testing• Front & Rear Differential• 4 WD• Free Estimates

Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.All Major Credit Cards Accepted

Financing Available

307 W. Swager Dr., Fremont

495-3208

Young Family Funeral Home

Our Family Caring For Your Family

Pat & Kathy Youngwww.youngfamilyfuneralhome.com

State Road 9 NorthWolcottville

260-854-2251

222 South State St.Kendallville 260-347-0950

AGRA WAREHOUSEP.O. Box 70, Spencerville, IN 46788

Ron DeLong260-238-2364 • Toll Free: 1-800-238-2364

Mobile: 260-341-4526 • Fax: 260-238-2363Email: [email protected]


Tom BassettTom Bassett of Auburn has led Boy

Scout Troop 169 at the Auburn Presbyte-rian Church “for many, many years,”writes Shari Hook of Auburn, whonominated Bassett as an Everyday Hero.“He donates countless hours of his timeand talent to develop and guide futuregenerations of young men in ourcommunity. Tom doesn’t desire or expectrecognition, but he deserves to be namedan ‘Everyday Hero.’”

PROFESSION: Part owner of BassettElectric Motors, Inc., along with my brotherKevin Bassett. It is a family business thathas been in operation for 50 years.

FAVORITE VOLUNTEER OR SERVICEACTIVITY: I have been a volunteer leaderfor the Boy Scouts since 1977 and ascoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 169 since1981.

REASON FOR BEING INVOLVED/SERVINGOTHERS: When I was a youth in Boy ScoutTroop 169 I had the benefit of havingseveral men who gave of their time, talent,and wisdom to a large group of boys andtaught us different skills on how we couldbecome self-reliant. They also challengedus to do the very best that we could do inall aspects of our young lives. I had theprivilege of becoming an Eagle Scout andone of the things that the Boy Scouts ofAmerica challenge Eagle Scouts is to giveback to Scouting what we have learned. Idecided to stay involved in the troop afterI turned 18 years old. In 1981 ourScoutmaster left that position and I agreedto take the position of Scoutmaster on atemporary basis until they could find anew Scoutmaster. I certainly did notanticipate that today I would still be inthat position. I am still involved todaybecause of the mission of the Boy Scoutsof America: “…to prepare young people tomake ethical and moral choices over theirlifetimes by instilling in them values…”

PERSON WHO HELPED TO SHAPE MYLIFE: My parents, Merle and Polly Bassett.They showed me by that by honest andhard work one can make their dreamscome true.

FAVORITE INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE, BOOK,SONG, ETC.: The beginning of the BoyScout Oath: “On my honor, I will do mybest.” Our honor is about the only thingthat is ours alone. We are known by ourintegrity and our actions in all kinds ofsituations.

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE SEEKING TOBECOME INVOLVED: Our young peopleneed all the help they can get to becomeparticipating citizens in our community.Do not be afraid to give and show themsupport.

COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING SENTENCE: Iam passionate about … setting the properexample in my life, whether it be at work,home, Scouting, in my faith with God, orin whatever I do, that it will inspire youngpeople to do their best in their life.

Tom BassettPHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Lathan Snyder of Butler has worked as avolunteer director at the Filling Station YouthCenter for many years, writes Dale Rabineau,who nominated Snyder as an Everyday Hero.“He has never taken a dollar in compensation,though most youth center director’s receive afull-time wage,” Rabineau added. “Despitehis volunteer status, he works many hourseach week to provide a safe, after-schoolhaven to provide activities for youth in ourarea. He is a great role model and nearlyevery kid in Butler knows him.”

PROFESSION: Volunteer/ministerial directorfor the Filling Station Youth Center, schoolbus driver for DeKalb Eastern school districtand pastor of SeaBreeze Ministries.

FAVORITE VOLUNTEERING ACTIVITY: Beingable to minister to kids, and seeing their faceswhen they know you care.

REASON FOR BEING INVOLVED/SERVINGOTHERS: Kids want and need guidance intheir lives; to be there for them, and to listento their needs; to help when you can is veryrewarding.

PERSON WHO HELPED TO SHAPE MY LIFE:My mom.

FAVORITE INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE, BOOK,SONG, ETC.: “Courage is being afraid, butsaddling up anyway.” – John Wayne

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE SEEKING TO BECOMEINVOLVED: When kids see you volunteeringyour time to them, they know you really careabout them.

COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING SENTENCE: Iam passionate about … family. Strongfamilies enable a strong foundation in kid’slives. They’ll get the guidance to be strong inlife and make wise choices.

Lathan Snyder

Lathan Snyder, ministerial director atthe Filling Station Youth Center, worksat the front check-in desk.

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

“The Nation’sLargest Recycler”

ISO 14001 Certifi ed

DICK DODGE“A special ‘Thank You’ for all of your support over the last 8 years.”

BY KATHRYN [email protected]

Jerry Weller’s philosophy is simple.“You are born to serve, not be served,”

Weller said, in between chatting withcustomers at the Downtown Auburn Farmers’Market.

For Weller, serving God and others comesnaturally.

The lifelong Garrett resident has served acombined total of 24 years on the Garrett-Keyser-Butler school board. Weller is notseeking re-election to the board and will retirefrom his seat in December.

“I feel over the past year God has calledme to do more at church,” Weller said.Answering that call, Weller has accepted therole of worship minister at the First Church ofChrist in Garrett.

“I love music and love people so it’s agood combination,” Weller said.

With First Church of Christ pastor BrotherBud Owen, Weller makes hospital calls andvisits to church members.

“Since I love people, it’s easy for me,”Weller said, smiling broadly. “It’s one talent

God has blessed me with.”Church member and Garrett resident

Judith Witherspoon was especially touchedby Weller’s and Owen’s visits to her husbandbefore he passed away from cancer threemonths ago.

“After they were there and talked to himand gave him communion, he was peaceful,”Witherspoon said of her husband.

Witherspoon describes Weller as “an all-around great guy,” noting he is there tosupport and meet the needs of individuals andactivities in the community.

“He’s so active in the church. He’s aspecial guy,” she said.

Weller also enjoys volunteering as aHOPE mentor to two students and spends anhour with each of them every week. His lovefor children also is apparent in his role as aSunday School teacher where he meets with aclass of about 10 second- and third-graders.

“That’s just the age that they love learningand love to be challenged,” Weller said.

In his busy schedule, Weller still finds timefor a part-time job as an assistant at theGarrett Veterinary Hospital.

Having been raised on a farm, Weller said,he is comfortable around animals so the job isa natural fit.

Weller has become a familiar face indowntown Auburn during the summer as hesells produce at the Farmers Market.

“For me, it’s a reunion,” he said ofmeeting up with his customers and othervendors.

Weller sells produce grown at LutterFarms in LaOtto. Customers return week afterweek for the juicy ears of sweetcorn piled inthe back of Weller’s pick-up truck.

“They call me the Corn King,” Wellersaid.

Weller enjoys gardening and raising asmall number of livestock on his rural Garrettproperty. Family is important to Weller. Heand his wife of 45 years, Alice, have twodaughters and sons-in-law, Ann and GregHall and Toni and Gary Moughler, and a sonand daughter-in-law, Brent and Sonya Weller.They also have six grandchildren with a

seventh expected in spring.“I get a lot out of life, that’s for sure,”

Weller said.


Jerry Weller feels ‘born to serve’

Jerry Weller sings with the praise team at the First Church of Christ in Garrett,where he has accepted the role of worship minister.

SUE CARPENTER

Jerry Weller shares a smile withcustomers at the Auburn FarmersMarket, where he is known as the“Corn King.”

OCTAVIA LEHMAN

200 W. Toledo St., Fremont, IN(260) 495-2915

www.beamsfuneralhome.com

Endorsed by:• Indiana Right to Life • Indiana Family Action PAC

• Indiana Manufacturers Association• Indiana Chamber - IBRG • NFIB

The Zent Family Salutes OurVeterans Both Past and Present

Paid for by Committee to Elect Denny Zent

DR. DENNIS J.

ZENTRepublican Candidate for

State Representative District 51

BY JENNIFER [email protected]

ANGOLA — Jane Odom has deliverednoon meals on two routes on Mondays,filled in as an emergency driver, handledpaperwork and whatever else comes alongfor Steuben Mobile Meal.

And she’s done it all as a volunteer for16 years. Eight or nine years ago, shebecame the nonprofit’s director.

For all of her work with SteubenMobile Meal, Odom was nominated as anEveryday Hero by Brad Noyes, dietarydirector at Cameron Memorial CommunityHospital. “It’s a little over the top,” shesaid about the nomination. “I don’tconsider it heroic. I’m a volunteer bynature.

“Cameron makes the food followingdietary concerns. Everybody pays for theirmeals as part of the funding throughUnited Way,” Odom said. “I started outdelivering. I had been doing it in Alabamaeight or nine years ago. It’s a way offinding some friends and I enjoy it. I’venever thought of not doing it. I get a lot ofsatisfaction in being thanked for when thefood is good.”

Steuben Mobile Meals are delivered tothose within Angola’s city limits. Odomsaid if schools are closed in the wintertimedue to inclement weather, meals are notdelivered to clients.

“Clients have become family andfriends. Most are homebound. We’redelivering a hot meal, but it’s a contact. Itcertainly helps the whole family unit that… rest assured, they got a meal … A lot ofolder clients make two meals out of it.”

As part of Steuben Mobile Meal, Odomhas 17 volunteer serving as deliverers andhalf of those are couples. Most of the time,she gets thank yous from clients receivingtheir meals. Others want to chat, as thedeliveries also serve as wellness visits andfriendships are made over time. “A lot ofthem tell me how good the meal is,” shesaid. The meals, which rotate for variety,include some type of meat entree, twovegetables, a beverage, dessert and breadand butter.

“One lady says, ‘I like the pie.’” Odomsaid. “They tell me it’s good. Some don’tlike broccoli or can’t have spicy (food).They are billed every month and they areasked what they do not like.”

Mark Goulet, treasurer of SteubenMobile Meal and a volunteer driver, saidOdom has lots of energy to direct theservice.

“Jane is the main contact person. She isactively involved with anyone whoreceives meals and fills in for anyone whocan’t drive. She’s got a lot of gumptionand is a wonderful lady,” Goulet said.“(Clients) really like her.”

Odom recently delivered a noon meal toRuth Courtney, Angola, who has been aclient for four years. Courtney lost the useof her right hand and uses a walkermaking it difficult to cook in her kitchen.“I get the meals five days a week anddon’t have to worry about my big meal ofthe day,” she said. “It brightens my day.When you live by yourself, the days arelong.

“(Odom) brings joy every time shecomes. She’s a happy go lucky person andwe discuss sewing.”

Jane Odom ‘brings joy’September 13, 2012 ©KPC Media Group Inc. • kpcnews.com Everyday Heroes 7

Jane Odom, left, director of Steuben Mobile Meals, delivers a hot noon meal toher client of four years, Ruth Courtney, Angola. Courtney said she looks forward tothe meals and visits with those who deliver them, especially Odom.

JENNIFER DECKER

1915 S. Wayne, Auburn • 925-4168Mon.-Fri. 8:00 AM-4:45 PM • Sat. 8:00 AM-11:45 AM

We Salute You

Main Offi ce: 120 W. King St., Garrett, IN 46738 • (260) 357-3133

South Offi ce: 1341 S. Randolph, Garrett, IN 46738 • (260) 357-6680

Pine Valley Offi ce: 811 Mill Lake Rd., Fort Wayne, IN 46845 • (260) 637-5045

www.garrettstatebank.com Member FDIC

Thank you to our

Everyday Heroes


Paul Johnston aims to ‘do some good’BY PATRICK [email protected]

WOLCOTTVILLE — If Paul Johnstoncould be defined by just one phrase, if might be“do some good.”

Johnston, 61, just recently retired from theWestview School Corporation, capping a 38-year career in education that included jobs asboth a teacher and an administrator, working inboth public and private schools.

Throughout his career, his desire to “do somegood” has always been a large part of who PaulJohnston is.

“I want to do some good, that’s always beenvery important to me,” he said.

In his lifetime, Johnston has indeed done alot of good.

In LaGrange County alone, he estimatesmore than 5,000 students have passed throughthe doors of the buildings where he has worked,students whose life he hoped he touched.

“What energized me most was seeing thatlight go on in a kid,” he said. “When you can

touch the life of a student, or parent, or ateacher, and they in turn give you thanks and saythey appreciate it, that was the best part of myjob. That’s what gives you satisfaction.”

Last spring, he acted as one of the drivingforces behind the Westview School Corpora-tion’s push to collect money, clothes andresources for a southern Indiana schooldevastated by a tornado in early March.

The Henryville school that was destroyedhad a strong LaGrange County connection.Henryville’s high school principal, Troy Albert,once worked as the Westview High Schoolprincipal. His wife, Karen, taught school forJohnston at Westview Jr. High.

In barely two weeks, Johnston helped theschool and its students tap into a generous spirithe says makes up LaGrange County, andtogether, they raised more than $40,000 todonate to the recovery effort for the HenryvilleSchool system.

“I just made a couple of phones calls andprobably hit the right people at the right time,”

Johnston said modestly.Johnston said it’s always

been a comfort to know thatwhen the chips are down, andsomeone needed help, the localcommunity always seems tocome together.

In addition to working as theprincipal for Westview Jr. HighSchool at the time, Johnstonwas also the president of theLaGrange County CommunityFoundation board, and managedto use that organization’sleverage and clout to maximizethe donations that were pouringinto the school from LaGrangeand Elkhart counties, andaround the Midwest.

During that campaign,Johnston kept a cool,businesslike demeanor, butadmits that on the inside, he was

“beaming.”“That was just phenomenal,” he said.A deeply religious man, Johnston has always

managed to blend family, faith and communityinto his daily routine.

Early in his career, he considered joining thepriesthood. He graduated with a bachelor’sdegree from a Cincinnati Catholic seminary. ButJohnston said an early job teaching churchhistory at Bishop Dwenger High School, aCatholic school in Fort Wayne, allowed him towatch the school’s priests work day to day. Thatexperience helped him decide he wanted to stayin the classroom.

“I always wanted to be a teacher,” Johnstonadmits. “That is something I knew for a long,long time. When I started teaching, I saw what apriest did on a daily basis. The Catholic Churchis a great sacrifice, but I chose not to continue tobe a priest.”

Throughout his career, Johnston is one ofthose rare individuals who moved easilybetween the worlds of public and privateschools. He taught at Garrett for nearly 10 yearsbefore leaving to be an administrator at FortWayne’s Bishop Luers High School, a Catholicinstitution.

He left that job to come to Lakeland, andthen finally finished out his career at Westview.

As he rose through the ranks in education, hemoved out of the classroom and into theadministrator’s desk. Often the job came withthe heavy task of dealing with troubled studentsand dishing out discipline when required. That,he admits, was never a task he enjoyed.

“But it was part of the job and someone hadto do it,” Johnston explained.

The key to helping students, he said, wasknowing what you want out of the situation.

Nowadays, Johnston is looking for newventures to lend his talents. Admittedly neverone to sit still very long, he’s been active in theLaGrange County Habitat for Humanity, and isa very active member of the St. Joseph’sCatholic Church in LaGrange.

Johnston also hopes to donate his time to a

weekly mentoring program at Topeka Elemen-tary, a program he participated in last yearbefore he retired.

“It’s a chance to work with a child one onone so they can see a positive role model,” hesaid of program.

He is still the president of the board of theLaGrange County Community Foundation andwill stay active in that organization. Finally, he’sconsidering offering his talents to the LaGrangeFood and Clothing basket, an organization thathelps feed and clothe the LaGrange County’sneedy.

“Its just part of the values taught me by myparents,” he said of his commitment tovolunteering his time. “That is the nature ofcommunity.”

Paul JohnstonPATRICK REDMOND

OUR COFFEE IS LEGENDARY.

DRIVE THRUample parking, indoor & outdoor seating

ANGOLA, IN1405 N. Wayne St.

STURGIS, MI100 West Chicago Rd.

Sign up for eRewards at www.MyGLCC.com

Complete

ESTABLISHED 1969

*Free towing within DeKalb County limits.

www.cn-restoration.com

DAYTIME CELL

Building a Stronger Community for the Past 40 Years.

Phone: 260-337-1800 • FAX: 260-337-1801

VULCRAFT - ST. JOEA Division of Corporation

6610 C.R. 60, P.O. Box 1000, St. Joe, Indiana 46785

The Nation’s Largest Recycler


Dick Boggess of Fort Wayne is directorof the Noble County Bowen Center inAlbion and a licensed clinical addictionscounselor. He has a master’s degree inaddiction counseling. Michael Kramer,who nominated Boggess as an EverydayHero, writes, “In addition to his adminis-trative duties Dick makes time to counselpeople and lead groups. Dick also assistthose battling addictions in many waysafter he finishes his duties at the BowenCenter through personal meetings andtelephone calls. He volunteers as a memberof the Noble County Drug Court Team andas the Clinical Director. Dick is also on theboard of Freedom House, a halfway housein Fort Wayne. Dick has dedicated his lifeto helping those with addictions and otherbehavioral health problems, during the daythrough his job, and nights and weekendsthrough his volunteer efforts.”

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE VOLUNTEER ORSERVICE ACTIVITY? My favorite volunteeractivity would be serving on the NobleCounty Drug Court. I am also involvedwith Drug Free Noble County, our localcommunity action coalition helping withprevention, education and treatment of theabuse of alcohol and drugs among ouryouth as well as adult population.

WHY ARE YOU INVOLVED WITH SERVINGOTHERS? Being of service to others is asecret to life that I learned a long time ago,and it has served me well, so why would Inot want to help others. Being a part ofpositive change in people’s lives is veryexciting and rewarding.

PERSON OR PERSONS WHO HELPEDSHAPE YOUR LIFE? There have been severalpeople. One was my father who was thegentlest man I have ever met. Another was

Roy Russell, director of Freedom House inFort Wayne. It’s a halfway house for menstruggling with the disease of alcoholismand/or addiction. He lived a life of serviceto others, and I watched as he lived his lifethe way God intended him to. Finally, ourNoble County Drug Court team membersas well as our participants. They all helpshape my life in a positive way every day.

FAVORITE INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE, BOOK,SONG? “You can’t think your way intogood living. You have to live your way intogood thinking.”

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE PEOPLESEEKING TO BECOME INVOLVED? Volunteerat a place that has helped you or someoneyou know so that you can grow. Expectnothing in return. That way, you are neverdisappointed.

COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING SENTENCE: Iam passionate about … recovery in everysense of the word.

Dick Boggess

Dick Boggess

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Kim Griest of Auburn is a physicaltherapist at Cameron MemorialCommunity Hospital in Angola, andspecializes in lyphedema. She and hercollegues, Eric Miller (see page 11) andMarilyn Clevenger (see page 12) werenominated as Everyday Heroes by SusanStackhouse for their work with her inphysical therapy.

Stackhouse writes, “As medical profes-sionals, their expertise and knowledge inthe field of physical therapy is mostevident; however, it is their compas-sionate, caring and dedicated approachthat inspires their patients to make remark-able progress … Their remarkableapproach brings hope, instills courage and

revitalizes our lives.”FAVORITE VOLUNTEER OR SERVICE

ACTIVITY: My job; 20 years and counting inCameron’s rehabilitation department.

REASON FOR BEING INVOLVED ANDSERVING OTHERS: To encourage and prepareothers to return to their normal orimproved life and activity level.

PERSON WHO HELPED TO SHAPE MY LIFE:My parents

FAVORITE INSPIRATIONAL MATERIAL: TheSerenity Prayer

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE SEEKING TO BECOMEINVOLVED: Do what you enjoy. Make adifference in someone else’s life every day.

I AM PASSIONATE ABOUT ... my work;making a difference in others’ lives.

Kim Griest

Kim Griest

AMY OBERLIN

810 South Broadway Butler

(260) 868-2320

www.color-master.com

I am available to meet with anyone,anywhere, at any time to talk…

Contact me at the following:

Phone: 260-403-1803E-mail: [email protected]

Website: electpowers.com

Paid for by The Committee to Elect Elten Powers,Bill Penick, Treasurer.

ELTEN POWERSfor

COMMISSIONERS T E U B E N C O U N T Y

FairviewMissionary Church525 E 200 N Angola, IN 46703

260-665-8402www.fairview-missionary.org


Mick Shaub is a retired firefighter whoresides in Avilla, and volunteers at theProvena Sacred Heart Home in Avilla.“Mick volunteers almost daily at thehome. He helps with anything andeverything,” writes Kimberly Ley, theActivity Director at Sacred Heart Home.She nominated Mick as an Everyday Hero.She adds that he “is a person you can trustand can be counted on in good and badtimes. He has a very kind heart and iswilling to give of his time at a momentsnotice … Whatever I or a residents needshe gets it done. When I don’t ask him tocome in and help he calls me and askswhat needs to be done.” Mick also helpslead a men’s group at the home. “Hissmile, laugh and good or bad jokes reallyhelp the guys here feel like they are backat the coffee shop with friends,” Leywrites. “Mick really goes out of his way tobe where he is needed, that may be here atthe home, or with one of his friend in needof support. Mick Shaub is a true exampleof doing ‘God’s Work’ here on earth. Icould not do my job as well as I dowithout him.”

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE VOLUNTEER ORSERVICE ACTIVITY? Taking residents ofSacred Heart out for activities and/orcalling bingo.

WHAT ARE YOUR REASONS FOR BEINGINVOLVED AND SERVING OTHERS? God tellsus to make others happy and their livesbetter.

PERSON OR PERSONS WHO HELPEDSHAPE YOUR LIFE? My parents and God.

FAVORITE INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE, BOOKOR SONG? Do unto others as you wouldhave others do unto you.

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE SEEKING TOBECOME INVOLVED? Don’t keep yourtalents and time to yourself. Give and youwill receive blessings in return.

COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING SENTENCE —I AM PASSIONATE ABOUT … doing what Ican for others because so many havehelped me.

Mick Shaub

Mick Shaub

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Larry BakerMany people bask in the glow that

comes with doing good deeds. Others toilaway behind the scene, and that’s the waythey like it. Larry Baker can fit in both ofthose molds. The Knapp Lake resident hasbeen there and done that in his 70-someyears, ranging from being anaccomplished community-theater actor toserving as chairman of the board of someof Noble County’s top nonprofit groups,including Noble County CommunityFoundation and Noble House ministries.He is also a part of the Elks and LigonierUnited Methodist Church, where he singsin the choir. Baker retired about 10 yearsago after a long teaching at career at withthe West Noble School Corp. And like theold saying goes, he’s been busier in retire-ment than when he was spending time infront of students.

FAVORITE VOLUNTEER OR SERVICEACTIVITY: Noble County CommunityFoundation, followed by Noble House. “Ireally love the work done by everyone atthe community foundation. I was on theboard for six years and they do so muchfor the entire county. But Noble House isalso dear to my heart.”

REASON FOR BEING INVOLVED/SERVINGOTHERS: He delights “in seeing a grouplike the Noble County CommunityFoundation help so many needy causes,especially after the recession. The founda-tion has helped put food on the table andkeep the lights on for so many families. Ilike to do things that have a long-reachingeffect, and the foundation fits that bill.”

PERSON WHO HELPED TO SHAPE MYLIFE: I’ve been fortunate that God has putso many great people in my life. But I

always like to think about my parents,Myrna and Claire Baker.

FAVORITE INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE, BOOK,SONG, ETC.: “The higher the obstacle, thestronger one becomes after hurdling it,”from “Apples of Gold.”

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE SEEKING TOBECOME INVOLVED: Stop in at your localchurch or contact the community founda-tion in your area. Get a list of serviceclubs and just starting making calls andbecome involved. There’s always a needfor help.

Larry Baker

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

� Aircraft On Display� Gift Shop� Memorabilia On Display

Visit Us Today!

Home of the Hoosier Warbirds The Hoosier Warbirds

own & operate the Hoosier Air MuseumLocated south of the DeKalb County Airport on CR 62. Follow the signs.

Proudly SalutingOur Heroes

FRESH & SILK ARRANGEMENTSGREEN & BLOOMING PLANTS

WEDDING FLOWERSDISH GARDENS • BALLOON BOUQUETS

SYMPATHY THROWS & STONES GRAVE BLANKETS

114 E. 6th St., Auburn260-925-0777

Mon.-Fri. 8:30-5 p.m. • Sat. 8:30-Noon

Celebrating over 1 million safe miles!

Proudly supporting all our Heroes!

Bill Gehring of Kendallville is retired, butthat doesn’t mean he’s retired from beinginvolved in his community as a volunteerhelping others. Evelyn Shumaker nominatedGehring as an Everyday Hero. She writes:“Bill helps with the local food pantry everyweek. Bill volunteers at the blood bank everytime it’s here. Bill also drives his great-grandson to school every day.”

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE VOLUNTEER ORSERVICE ACTIVITY? Friendship Food Pantry.

REASONS FOR BEING INVOLVED ANDSERVING OTHERS? I think it is a basic respon-sibility to the community.

PERSON OR PERSONS WHO HELPED SHAPEYOUR LIFE? Parents Kenneth and FloraGehring, Vern Steckley and Ralph Atz. Myparents led the family by example and didnot refuse to help anyone. Vern Steckley andRalph Atz were my first two employers whodid set the standard for business peoplegiving back to the community.

FAVORITE INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE, BOOK,SONG? The Bible. If everyone kept the

commandments everywhere in the world, itwould be a perfect place to live.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR PEOPLESEEKING TO BECOME INVOLVED? You need tobe compassionate and willing to give of yourtime.

COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING SENTENCE — IAM PASSIONATE ABOUT … working withothers to fill a need.

Bill Gehring

Bill GehringPHOTO CONTRIBUTED


Eric MillerEric Miller of Angola has been a

physical therapist assistant at CameronMemorial Community Hospital for 16years, specializing in sports therapy. SusanStackhouse, who nominated Miller as anEveryday Hero, writes that he and hiscolleagues, Kim Griest (page 9) andMarilyn Clevenger (page 12) have helpedrevitalize her life, and the lives of theirpatients.

FAVORITE VOLUNTEER OR SERVICEACTIVITY: Habitat for Humanity.

REASON FOR BEING INVOLVED ANDSERVING OTHERS: I became involved inphysial therapist service and the medicalfield after having two knee surgeries froma sports injury. My physical therapist

pushed and motivated me and helped mereturn to all my favorite activities withinmonths. This shaped my career and mylife. I hope I can inspire others to do thesame.

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE SEEKING TO BECOMEINVOLVED: For those thinking about gettinginto the medical field — make sure youenjoy working with and helping people.You can have a very enjoyable andsuccessful career if you can find satisfac-tion in helping people and not focusing ongetting rich.

I AM PASSIONATE ABOUT ... beingactive and health; camping, hiking,snowboarding, wakeboarding,swimming.

Eric Miller of Angola is a physical therapist assistant at Cameron MemorialCommunity Hospital in Angola. He specializes in sports injuries.

AMY OBERLIN

Worldwide Auctioneers is proud to have sold in

proceeds directly benefiting the National Auto & Truck Museum which include this 2004 Ford GT Factory Test Mule

& 1917 American LaFrance Type 40 Pumper.

502 N. Main St. • Auburn • 260-925-3918www.pinnington-mccomb.com

With Gratitude to Our Heroes


Cathy Ann Vogel, of Auburn and Garrett, isa dance instructor and director in DeKalbCounty. “Cathy Ann is a hero because she issensitive to kids’ needs and creativity, and hasthe ability to push the kids to their potential,”writes Melissa Secrest, who nominated Vogelas a hero. “Cathy Ann wants kids to enjoy lifeand with being a dance teacher she has touchedand inspired many people.”

FAVORITE VOLUNTEER OR SERVICE ACTIVITY:Helping to teach the art of dance to the youngand the old, so they can demonstrate theirtalents in the local community throughperformance in dance.

REASON FOR BEING INVOLVED/ SERVINGOTHERS: I like to teach what my passion is –dance. I’ve been doing this for about 30 yearsnow in the Auburn area. It’s a passion fordance I have, and I like to bring that same thingout in the kids. I want them to have the passionfor the art of dance.

PERSON WHO HELPED TO SHAPE MY LIFE:Nancy Bordner. I trained at the Bordner Schoolof Dance in Fort Wayne, which is now the FortWayne School of Dance, and Nancy, itsdirector, gave me the opportunity to teach andhave a satellite studio in Garrett many yearsago.

FAVORITE INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE, BOOK,SONG, ETC.: The quote, “Tomorrow is another

day I get to dance.” I don’t know who it’s from,but that’s a quote I really think about a lot.

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE SEEKING TO BECOMEINVOLVED: It’s important to involve people ofall ages; we like to go out and entertain theyoung and the old. And to see the smiles ontheir faces, that’s just a good reason to bringour talents to the community. That’s why I doit. It makes me feel good when we can putsmiles on their faces.

COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING SENTENCE: I ampassionate about … being an inspirationtoward the young and the old, to inspire themthrough the art of dance.

Cathy Ann Vogel

Cathy Ann VogelPHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Marilyn Clevenger of Fremont has beena physical therapist assisant for 19 years atCameron Memorial Community Hospital.She is a cardiac and vertigo specialist.Clevenger and her collegues, Kim Griest(page 9) and Eric Miller (page 11) werenominated as Everyday Heroes by SusanStackhouse, who says that the trio hashelped return to her a “precious gift … theopportunity to live a fulfilling life.”

FAVORITE VOLUNTEER OR SERVICEACTIVITY: Serving on the board of directorsof the Compassion Pregnancy Center.

REASON FOR BEING INVOLVED ANDSERVING OTHERS: Because it’s the rightthing to do. If not me, then who?

PERSON WHO HELPED SHAPE MY LIFE:My mother. No matter the situation, shealways stood up for those who couldn’tstand up for themselves. She lived whatshe believed.

FAVORITE INSPIRATIONAL MATERIAL: “Ican do all things through Christ whostrengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

ADVICE FOR PEOPLE SEEKING TO BECOMEINVOLVED: No matter how hopeless the

situation seems, or how insignificant youfeel, you can make a difference.

I AM PASSIONATE ABOUT ... life!

Marilyn Clevenger

Marilyn Clevenger of rural Fremontworks with cardiac patients and othersin the rehabilitation department atCameron Memorial CommunityHospital.

AMY OBERLIN

“Some people search a lifetime for their calling. I found my calling, my extended family and a home away from home at American Senior Communities.”

–Ryan Levengood, Executive Director, American Senior Communities.

Caring people make the difference

ASCSeniorCare.com

“The friendship of those we serve is the foundation of our progress”

Insuring Home & Farm PropertiesIn Town & Rural Locations

Call 925-2668 • Fax 925-2752525 WEST MICHIGAN AVE., AUBURN, IN 46706

HOURS: MON.-FRI. 8:30-4:30Dave Baughman

Sec./Agent

Since 1878

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: WWW.DEKALBFARMMUTUAL.COM

Brenda BontragerAgent

For everything you do....THANK YOU!

www.cameronmch.com

Cameron Memorial Community Hospital would like to thank its 120+ Auxiliary and Hospice

volunteers for the thousands of hours of service they provide to the hospital.

Everyday Heroes 2012

Documents

Transcript of Everyday Heroes 2012