The Dedication and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony were held on Monday, January 4 at the new Adult Detention Facility and Mercer County Sheriff’s Office.

Several staff, county leaders, and Jail Advisory members, and community members were on hand for the dedication.

John Bruns, chairman of the Mercer County Commissioners gave the introduction and welcome. The group moved outside briefly for the flag raising by the Sheriff’s Office Deputies.

Steve Merrill sang the National Anthem and Captain Jodie Lange led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Commissioner Jerry Laffin and Sheriff Jeff Grey addressed the group. Commissioner Laffin gave a brief history of the decision to build a jail along with the decisions to put it on the ballot, selection of an architect, and selection of the site. He thanked the many people involved in the process including the various contractor.

Sheriff Jeff Grey reviewed the history of the construction and also thanked the many people involved in the project. He also thanked the Jail Advisory Committee and the general public for their support of the project. Allthough some of the staff have moved to the new jail, prisoners will not be moved to the new location until February.

Commissoner Bob Nuding led several dignitaries, including the commissioners, Judge Jeffrey Ingraham, and others in the actual ribbon cutting. Rev. Randy Christian, Sheriff’s Office Chaplain, gave the benediction.

Tours were then given to the members of the public present for the dedication ceremonies.

Mr. Wendell Schick, Financial Aid Director at the University of Northwestern Ohio will be available at St. Henry High School Wednesday, January 13 at 6:30 P.M. He will explain the do's and dont's of submitting the FAFSA and give an overview of the financial aid process.

The FAFSA is required by all schools, if you desire to seek financial aid. Estimates of federal income tax returns for 2009 may be saved on the FAFSA web site. Using your 2008 tax return, and your FAFSA on the Web Worksheet go to the web site and fill out you estimated FAFSA. Please attempt to save your estimated FAFSA before attending the meeting . This will generate questions for Mr Schick.

When your 2009 federal income tax return is completed you can return to you estimated FAFSA and fill in the exact figures before final submission. Parents will have the opportunity to work on line and Mr. Schick will be available to address concerns that arise when filling out the form.

FAFSA on the Web Worksheets can be obtained by going to http://www.fafsa.ed.gov/ and click on the second bullet under the #1.

Additional assistance will be available on Sunday, February 14 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Lake Campus for College Goal Sunday

Lake Campus Dean Retiring After 36 Years of Service To Wright State University

Dr. Jim Sayer will retire from the university on June 30, 2010

Dean James Sayer

CELINA, Ohio – James E. Sayer, Ph.D., Dean of Wright State University – Lake Campus, will be retiring on June 30, 2010. Sayer is in his thirty-sixth year of service at Wright State University. The past two and a half years he has served as the Dean of the Lake Campus. Before coming to the Lake Campus Sayer completed 18 years as Chair of the Department of Communications at WSU Dayton.

Since arriving in 2007 at the Lake Campus, Dean Sayer has overseen the completion of the $9 million renovation and construction project, as well as brought new programs such as criminal justice, computer science and mechanical engineering to the region. He has watched the enrollment increase 61% during his tenure at the Lake Campus, and remains connected to the community through the columns he publishes in several local newspapers.

Sayer earned his bachelor’s degree from Northern Arizona University, a master’s degree from the University of Arizona and his Ph.D. from Bowling Green State University. Along with his career at Wright State University, Sayer completed four years of service at the University of Arizona which has earned him 40 years of teaching service credit, the maximum pension level. These circumstances led Dean Sayer to make the difficult decision to retire, in hopes that his replacement will continue the momentum.

A committee has been formed and a national search will soon begin to find Sayer’s replacement. “Whoever he or she turns out to be, that person will come to a campus that is completely renovated, that has an expanding curriculum, and a very hard-working faculty and staff,” says Sayer. “Given how wonderful our Lake Campus is and how equally wonderful this area is, I am certain that a really good replacement will be found.”

Lake Campus Inviting Former Players to Basketball Game

Alumni Network and Student Government teaming to recognize all athletes

CELINA, OH –

WHO: All former Lake Campus men’s and women’s basketball players, cheerleaders and coaches

WHAT: Lake Campus Men’s and Women’s Basketball Game vs. Rhodes State College

WHERE: Mercer-Auglaize County YMCA in Celina, OH

WHEN: Wednesday, January 20, 2010

5pm: Women’s Tip-off

7pm: Men’s Tip-off

Wright State University – Lake Campus is inviting all former men’s and women’s basketball players, cheerleaders and coaches to the Lakers basketball game on Wednesday, January 20 for an evening full of memories, entertainment and recognition.

The Lakers will take on rival Rhodes State College with the women’s game beginning at 5:00 p.m. and the men’s following at 7:00 p.m. Former players in attendance will be announced at half time of both games.

As part of the celebration, the Lake Campus Alumni Network and Lake Campus Student Government are hosting “Spirit Day.” Activities will include food, prizes and festivities all day at the Lake Campus for students, faculty and staff.

For more information, or if you are a former Laker of know of a past player who would like to participate, please contact Pat Howard at 419-586-0300 or pat.howard@wright.edu.

On January 4, 2010 , the Country Cousins held their first meeting of the new year. The meeting was from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Coldwater Police Station. Our president Keith Wendel started the meeting. Fourteen of the fifteen members were present, along with three Clover Buds. The roll call was taken by Amanda Lochtefeld, and the pledges were led by Jesse Jenkins who led the Pledge of Allegiance and Cody Heiby who led the 4-H Pledge.

We are looking into finding open spots to sponsor a horse trophy and poultry, and are as usual sponsoring a rabbbit trophy. To raise our awareness around the flu season, we did a hidden germs worksheet, "Find the Hidden Germs." Then we all got our groove on to "cha-Cha Slide Part 2," organized by our Activities Director, Jesse Jenkins.

Our next meeting will be held on February 1, 2010 at the Coldwater Police Station.

For the last two years the United Way of Auglaize County and the Ohio Benefit Bank have partnered to bring free tax preparation for qualified individuals and families in Auglaize County whose incomes were below $56,000. This year as we gear up for another successful effort we are looking for volunteers to help us implement the program.

The United Way of Auglaize County is offering free training for all volunteers to become a vital part of community-based efforts to help individuals and families file their taxes and claim the Earned Income Tax Credit and other tax credits and benefits. Training will be held at the Wapakoneta High School on Saturday January 9, 2010 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and lunch will be provided. Anyone interested should call the United Way of Auglaize County office by Tuesday January 5, 2010 to reserve your spot in the training.

The United Way of Auglaize County positively impacts our community by focusing on the building blocks to a better life: Education, Health, and Financial Stability. We are a local organization serving local needs. For more information or to make a donation please contact our office at 419-739-7717 or visit our website at www.auglaizeunitedway.org.

Good morning! This is your reminder that the next Ag Breakfast is scheduled for Thursday, January 7, 2010 at 7:32 am in the large first-floor conference room of the Central Services Building in Celina. Breakfast will be $6.00.

Staff from the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management will present information on Animal Disease Outbreak Preparedness

If you have visited our nation’s Capitol Building, you may have wandered through Statuary Hall on your way from the magnificent Rotunda to the House wing of the building. Back in 1864, Congress authorized each of the states to furnish statues in either marble or bronze to commemorate the civic or military achievements of two individuals who hail from that state. Since the 1880s, Ohio has been represented by marble likenesses of former President of the United States and congressman from Ohio James Garfield, and former congressman and Ohio Governor William Allen.

A federal law change in 2000 established a procedure by which states may petition to exchange their statutes and fostered a movement in Ohio to replace the statue of Governor Allen with an individual who better represents the values and traditions of Ohio. William Allen opposed the Emancipation Proclamation and the Civil War -- a view inconsistent with Ohio’s distinguished history as a stop on the Underground Railroad and at the forefront of the abolition movement. In 2006, the Ohio General Assembly formally passed a bill to establish a bipartisan panel of legislators and tasked them with finding a suitable replacement for Governor Allen. It is important to note that when the decision is made, the replacement statue will be funded with privately-raised dollars.

This year, the committee has held field hearings across the state to learn about the lives and accomplishments of great Ohioans like inventor Thomas Edison, the Wright Brothers, Shawnee leader and warrior Tecumseh, Union General and former President Ulysses S. Grant, former President Rutherford B. Hayes, Olympian Jesse Owens, abolitionist James Ashley and Major League Baseball player William Ellsworth “Dummy” Hoy. Unfortunately, it seems the more the Committee learns about the lives of these individuals, the more difficult the decision becomes to choose just one.

More hearings are planned in the coming months, but you also have an opportunity to weigh in on the discussion by visiting www.legacyforohio.org. To be eligible for consideration, the individual must be deceased and must have been a resident of Ohio. This is a great opportunity for parents to encourage their children to learn about Ohio history and to form their own opinions about who they’d like to see representing our state in the U.S. Capitol.

Though there are certainly more pressing public policy issues on which the General Assembly must remain focused over the next year, the work of the Statuary Committee has served as a welcome reminder of Ohio’s proud heritage and of the strength of its people throughout our history. Ohio-bred inventors, scientists, athletes, war heroes, business and civic leaders and entertainers have contributed greatly to the fabric of our nation and will continue to do so in the years ahead.

As always, I welcome you views on state government issues. Please contact my office via e-mail: sd12@senate.state.oh.us, via phone: (614) 466-7505 or via mail: State Senator Keith Faber, Statehouse, Columbus, Ohio 43215.

Attendees: Jeff Selhorst, Ryan Muhlenkamp, Mike Fullenkamp, Jay Hein, Robin Link, Nick Grier, Ivan Knapp, Pat Schmitt, Jerry Bollenbacher, Randy Canary, Kris Hinton, Steve Schulte, Jackie Lacy

Guests: Cheryl McKirnan, Don Adams, Glen Florence, Alyssa Muhlenkamp, Larry Bowers, Michael Gower, Alan Post, Joe Bey, Bill Hemmelgarn, Mike Osterholt, Mikayla Rauch, Deb Hemmelgarn

Minutes: Ivan Knapp made a motion to accept the November minutes, seconded by Jay Hein. Motion passed unanimously.

Report: Steve Schulte gave a brief treasurer’s report since Emily Breymaier was not present. Pat Schmitt made a motion to accept the report, seconded by Jerry Bollenbacher. Motion passed.

Bills: Ryan Muhlenkamp made a motion to pay the monthly bills, seconded by Kris Hinton. Motion passed.

Mike Osterholt, Deb Hemmelgarn, and Bill Hemmelgarn were here representing the go kart races. They said if the Fairboard would like them to come back to the fair they were interested in being here. After some discussion on the day for the event, track work, and sponsorships, Kris made a motion to have them back at the same cost of $800, seconded by Jay. Motion passed.

Alyssa Muhlenkamp said she is here representing the Junior Fairboard. She said they would like to have the sheep show by breed and show by weight in breed. Ryan said he would attend the next Junior Fairboard meeting but felt this could be done okay. Ryan made a motion for junior fair show market lamb by breed, seconded by Randy Canary. Motion passed.

Alan Post and Michael Gower presented a new FFA Food Stand Proposal. They showed a diagram of the size, looks, etc. and asked for procedure help in getting this done. The Fairboard is in favor for them to proceed to see what needs to be done. They will meet with Jim Wiechart and the Buildings & Grounds Committee.

Alan Post said the Parkway FFA and another group will be doing a day on community service on the grounds in April.

Cheryl McKirnan presented the Junior Fair expenses for 2010. She also asked to be reimbursed for two registrations to the OFMA convention in January for her and another advisor going to the convention. Pat made a motion to reimburse the $80 to Cheryl, seconded by Randy. Motion passed.

Glen Florence said the black top project is not moving too fast. He has gotten various prices. Steve said he spoke with Jim Wiechart today and the $9,900 is the accurate figure.

Report: Steve Schulte presented a 2010 budget for the society. Jay made a motion to accept the budget, seconded by Kris. Motion passed.

Jackie explained the budget that Emily would like to have for fair entertainment. Robin Link made a motion to set the entertainment budget at $8,000, do not have the Jungle Island Zoo back this year, and to be able to do contracts at the convention with board final approval. A second to the motion was made by Pat. Motion passed.

Report: Ryan reported that the committee met with the Auction Committee. Those on the Fairboard who attended were: Ryan, Jay, Steve, and Pat. Jay said the meeting went well. They understand they have to be accounted for. Jay wants to work with them with the dairy. Officers were elected: President-Seth Kohnen, Vice President-Allen Spoltman, and Secretary-Carrie Fortkamp. The treasurer position was tabled at this time. Steve Knapke is still on the committee and Alan Post is on the committee. It doesn’t look like Barb Kohnen will be on the committee. The meeting was 180 degree change from the last meeting with them.

There was a short discussion on resending the motion about handling the gallon of milk and it was decided to hold of on taking any action.

Steve said he volunteered Jackie to help with checks etc. He said the best part of the meeting is that the Auction Committee has $5,000-$10,000 for the Jr. Fr. Building and $5,000 for the Long Range Committee.

Nick Grier explained that grandstand events group met and they recommend one night of demo derby. Tug a truck could be a possibility for Friday and he has sponsors if it is held that night.

Robin Link and Jackie explained a Community Garage Sale event for April 17^th with the proceeds going to the Jr. Fr. Building. Jay made a motion to have the event, seconded by Randy. Motion passed.

Jerry Bollenbacher said this year would probably break even on horses with three days of races. In 2011 possibly only have two days of races. Ivan made a motion to have harness races Sunday at 1:30 p.m., Monday at 7:30 p.m., and Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. Mike made a second to the motion. Motion passed.

Business: Jerry made a motion to have the January Fairboard meeting on January 12^th because of being at the convention, seconded by Randy. Motion passed.

Jerry presented his speed budget. Jerry made a motion to pass the budget, seconded by Kris. Motion passed.

It was agreed the committee would look over the vendor contracts and come back at the next meeting with any recommendations.

Comments: Jerry made a motion to pay the $55 credit card insurance fee, seconded by Randy. Motion passed.

Jackie explained about the Extravaganza Raffle at the convention if anyone was interested in participating.

Randy made a motion to donate $100 towards the American Legion food baskets, seconded by Jay. Motion passed.

Ryan Muhlenkamp reported that the Fair Board committee met with the Auction Committee at the end of November, 2009 Those on the Fairboard who attended were: Ryan Muhlenkamp, Jay Hein, Steve Schulte, and Pat Schmitt. Jay said the meeting went well. They understand they have to be accounted for. Jay wants to work with them with the dairy. Officers were elected: President-Seth Kohnen, Vice President-Allen Spoltman, and Secretary-Carrie Fortkamp. The treasurer position was tabled at this time. Steve Knapke is still on the committee and Alan Post is on the committee. It doesn’t look like Barb Kohnen will be on the committee. The meeting was 180 degree change from the last meeting with them.

There was a short discussion on resending the motion about handling the gallon of milk and it was decided to hold off on taking any action.

The Supervisors and Staff of the Mercer Soil & Water Conservation District remind producers to use best management practices on their land especially when dealing with winter manure application. Ohio’s livestock producers are at the risk of losing the sometimes necessary option of winter manure application if pollution problems resulting from wintertime manure spreading occur. To protect this option, farmers and applicators need to guard water quality by minimizing winter application and by following the current USDA/NRCS Practice Standard #633 when winter manure application is unavoidable.

Ohio has not implemented any rules on the manure application window for small to medium size livestock farm operations. However, there are suggested guidelines (#633) in place that if implemented will greatly reduce or eliminate the potential for nutrients to enter into watercourses, road ditches, streams and rivers. Anyone applying manure should be aware of all catch basins, watercourses, concentrated field flow areas, grassed waterways, riser pipes, tile inlets, culvert pipes and tile blowouts. In the winter, the ground becomes frozen with snow and ice and any manure applied to the surface will run when the sun shines or the ground begins to thaw out. The soil cannot absorb manure if the ground is already saturated.

Winter manure application is not encouraged and should be avoided when possible. However, some producers do not have the capabilities to store manure for the entire winter period. Some ways to protect surface and ground water in the winter months is to cover more acres thus applying less manure per acre. Split applications on the same land may also be an option.

Ground covered fields that have at least 90% surface residue remaining are good to utilize in the winter months. This includes all grain residue remaining after harvest including corn fodder, wheat stubble and old hay fields or winter cover cropped fields including wheat, oats and rye sowed into silage fields. Ground that does not meet the 90% ground cover criteria is corn silage fields, clipped and baled wheat stubble, tilled ground and hay ground that has less than a couple inches of new growth after the last harvest.

Liquid applications are limited to 5,000 gallons per acre and solid manure is limited to 10 wet tons of manure. Manure shall not be applied on more than 20 contiguous acres. Contiguous acres for application are to be separated by a break of at least 200’ of non manured land. Utilize the areas that are furthest from streams, road ditches, rivers, surface tile inlets and bodies of water. A 200’ minimum setback distance from manure sensitive areas is also suggested (this includes but is not limited to wells, catch basins, road ditches and concentrated flow areas).

For some farmers, adding storage capacity would help. Others might need to manage applications more carefully. Federal incentive dollars through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) may be available to producers to increase storage capacity and to develop a Comprehensive Nutrient Management Plan (CNMP). For more information about manure application criteria, EQIP or other manure management issues, contact the SWCD office at 419-586-3289.