Happy Saint Valentine's Day. A day set aside for candy, cards, and flowers. A day set aside to say I love you, a day set aside to say I care. Too bad Valentine's Day comes only once a year.

But who would have time to buy candy and cards and flowers every day? Who would have time to say "I love you, I care" every day? Who could afford it?

Is it true that former Yankee star Joe DiMaggio had a dozen roses placed at Marilyn Monroe's burial place every week? How much would it cost to send your love a dozen roses weekly?

How much does it cost to say "I love you, I care" every week, every day? The question of love is not whether we can afford it, but whether we can afford not to care, not to love.

Valentine's Day provides all of us a golden opportunity to re-evaluate our relationship with others--friends with friends, boyfriends with girlfriends, husbands with wives, parents with children, teachers with students, employers with employees, priests and ministers with parishioners, young with old, and old with young.

So much of living is taken for granted, the pace is so hurried, no time is left for what life is all about. If you or I could slow things down just for one moment, would we do things any differently? Would we re-focus our lives? Or like the determined four in "Dr. Heidegger's Experiment," would we fail to learn when given a second chance.

A friend of mine pointed out that we spend more time with our co-workers in the work place than we do with our own families. I heard a speaker say that the average time spent with our children in America is now less than 15 minutes a week.

As the family disintegrates, the resulting problems created by AIDS will be mild compared to a generation of children without values, without a sense of right and wrong, without love. Andy Rooney was right in his editorial on 60 Minutes when he said the problem with education was not in the school, but in the home, or lack of home.

"When I was a kid, Dad took us fishing, and we went to Russells Point and the fair. We had wiener roasts and birthday parties and taffy pulls. Now we don't have time for anything. We never go anywhere. We never do anything. We don't have time to have fun, to laugh, to enjoy each others. We're too busy to live." I listened to what he told me and knew that it was true.

As I left for another meeting a few years ago, my son said to me--"Are you going to another meeting?" I was surprised by his question, nodded affirmatively, and then was shocked by his question--"When are you going to have time for me?"

Andy Rooney was right. "Parents are the ones who must create a family atmosphere animated by love and respect for God and man, in which the well-rounded personal and social education of a child is fostered." (from the Decree on Christian Education of Vatican II)

Several years ago, as a social worker I listened as a parent of a delinquent child listed all the things he had done for his child. "I give him everything. He's got a car, $2000 in the bank, all the clothes he wants. You name it, he's got it. I can't understand it. What's wrong with that kid?"

"What about time? Did you give him time? Did you do things together? Did you show him you cared? Did you give him love?

We all survive on an inner bank called "Self esteem," which for those of us who are lucky is filled during our childhood. Then when life makes withdrawals on us as life surely does, there is enough left that will continue to draw interest to sustain us through the tough times ahead.

Every human being is entitled to respect. To destroy the self image is to destroy the person. As the philosopher Martin Buber said, "All mankind wishes to be confirmed in his being by man (others), and wishes to have a presence in the being of the other...secretly and bashfully he watches for a "YES" which allows him to be and which can come to him only from one human person to another.

A simple hello, a pat on the shoulder, a friendly smile, a little hug can carry all of us over some pretty rough roads of daily living. The message of Valentine's Day is a message for everyday.

I see a simple message on the wall of a teacher friend of mine--"Will it matter that I was?"

It was the author MacLish who responded, "Love is the only satisfactory answer to the problem of existence....Love provides the ultimate human answer to the ultimate human question, why we are here and what it is we are to do."

CELINA, OH – VanTilburg Farms has contributed $3,000 to a scholarship through the Wright State University - Lake Campus Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) for the 2010-2011 academic year. The scholarship is available to any Lake Campus student who has earned more than 45 credit hours, and is in the bachelor’s program in Organizational Leadership and is focusing in agriculture. The scholarship is renewable for a second year.

Wright State University - Lake Campus student Brian Schulte of Maria Stein received the $3,000 VanTilburg Farms Scholarship for the 2009-2010 academic year.

Pictured with Schulte, from left to right is: Jim VanTilburg, President of VanTilburg Farms; Kyle VanTilburg, CEO of VanTilburg Farms; Brian Schulte, Scholarship Recipient; Jim Sayer, Lake Campus Dean and Tom Saddler, Vice President of WOEF Board.

To obtain more information about the WOEF Scholarship Foundation please visit www.wright.edu/lake/prospective/scholarships.html or contact Sandy Gilbert, Scholarship Coordinator, at 419-586-0376.

Members of Midwest Electric recently donated $13,500 to 10 west-central Ohio charities and community projects through the cooperative’s Community Connection Fund. Since the program began in 1998, the Midwest Electric Community Connection Fund has provided $579,282 to 398 area projects.

Safe Harbor Homeless and Runaway Youth Shelter, Lima, $2,500 for the new Street Outreach Program.

Family Crisis Network, Celina, $2,100 for a laptop computer and related equipment. FCN provides domestic violence services.

St. Marys Township Fire Association, $2,000 to help purchase a thermal imaging camera to aid in fire detection as well as rescue efforts.

Mercer County EMS - St. Henry Branch, $1,100 to buy an airway management trainer for CPR and other life-saving training programs.

ConQuest, St. Marys, $500 to purchase instructor books for this group that provides leadership and virtue training for boys ages 5 and up.

Boy Scouts with Disabilities Troop 237, Ft. Recovery, $300 to buy eight cots for their camp trailer.

The Midwest Electric Community Connection Fund is a voluntary charitable program. Participating members’ monthly electric bills are rounded up to the next dollar, with the additional pennies deposited in the Fund.

A Board of Trustees, composed of cooperative members and separate from the Midwest Electric Board of Trustees, oversees the application and allocation process. Individuals or organizations can obtain an application by contacting Midwest Electric, at 419-394-4110 or 1-800-962-3830.

St. Henry EMS: Randy Bruns, Midwest Electric Community Connection Fund trustee, presents a $1,100 donation to Mercer County EMS – St. Henry Branch volunteer Ryan Bollenbacher, to buy an airway management trainer for CPR and other life-saving training programs.

Boy Scouts: Randy Bruns, Midwest Electric Community Connection Fund trustee, presents a $300 check to Sue Westgerdes, troop master of Boy Scouts with Disabilities Troop 237, of Ft. Recovery, to buy eight cots for their camp trailer.

Family Crisis Network: Randy Bruns, Midwest Electric Community Connection Fund trustee, presents a $2,100 donation to Jan Bruggeman, development assistant for Family Crisis Network, Celina, for a laptop computer and related equipment for this group that provides domestic violence services.

Minster Bank and Cornerstone Rehabilitation have stepped up "big time" to sponsor Fasching Fest this year and we're really grateful to them! However, we've got still more opportunities for chamber members to market your businesses. In 2009, 30 local businesses contributed door prizes to Fasching Fest and we're hoping for a large group again this year. It's a great chance for a low-cost bit of promotion!

This year with the combined marketing efforts of Adam and myself, and nearly twice as many pre-sale ticket locations we are planning on 500 folks enjoying a wonderful event. That's about 150 more than last year's event!! Click Here for the 2010 Fasching Fest poster.

You can contact me at the Chamber office and let me know what you'd like to donate and I will be more than happy to come by and pick your item up!

Scott M. Frey
Executive Director
Southwestern Auglaize County Chamber of Commerce

Deanna Davis and Kristy Kahlig will be the presenters at the next Dine and Discover (DaD) Program sponsored by Mercer Health at Mercer County Community Hospital on Monday, March 1, beginning with a dinner at 5:00 pm. Their topic is “Spring Into Fitness”.

Davis and Kahlig are both personal trainers and co-owners of Innergy Fitness, Coldwater. They will be discussing the benefits of exercise as well as demonstrating simple stretching exercises that can be done in the home.

DaD event coordinator Lori Shellabarger states, “If you have been waiting for the weather to improve before resuming an exercise routine, this will be a good program to help you get started. Both Deanna and Kristy have a lot of knowledge about how to properly begin a new exercise program or how to more efficiently manage your current routine.”

The Mercer Health DaD program began in September, 2007, and has continued to grow from there. This will be the thirteenth presentation in the series.

This program is open to the public. Dinner will be served beginning at 5:00 p.m. with Kahlig and Davis doing their presentation from 5:30 to 6:30. Reservations are required. Persons interested in attending are encouraged to call 419-678-5196 no later than February 22. However, reservations will be accepted after that date as long as there are spaces available. There is a $5 fee per person for this event.

It will be held at Mercer County Community Hospital, 800 West Main Street, Coldwater, Ohio, in Meeting Room 1.

Membership in the Grand Lake Photo Club is open to anyone having an interest in photography regardless of skill level. The Club offers members an opportunity to learn more about their camera’s capabilities and to share individual photographic knowledge or experiences with other members. We are an active group, with upcoming monthly competitions, programs, and field trips to places that offer us the chance to photograph things of interest.

The club meets on the last Sunday of each month at the Grand Lake Galleria Conference Center, 909 E. Wayne Street Celina, OH at 3:30 p.m.

Ft. Recovery - On February 3^rd, the Ft. Recovery FFA Advisors, Michael Gower and Joe Hawk, attended the District Five FFA Evaluations held at Upper Valley JVS in Piqua. The annual District FFA Evaluation recognized individual achievements and chapter accomplishments.

Four Ft. Recovery FFA members, applied for the American FFA Degree including, Chris Gehret, Beverly Lennartz, Kelly Thien, and Tom Will. The American Degree is the highest degree a member can receive in the FFA. To earn the degree, members need to work more than 2,250 hours, earn or productively invest $7,500 or more, and be heavily involved in chapter, school, and community activities. Only sixty-two members in the history of the Ft. Recovery FFA Chapter have ever received the prestigious American FFA Degree. Their applications were evaluated and forwarded to state for evaluation.

Fifteen Ft. Recovery FFA members, Laura Braun, Riggs Florence, Craig Fortkamp, Nathan Fortkamp, Craig Fullenkamp, Zach Guggenbiller, Stephanie Heitkamp, Dustin Homan, Jessica Link, Megan Rammel, Emily Schoenlein, Aaron Sutter, Alan Vogel, Aaron Will, and Stacy Will, applied for the State FFA Degree, which is the highest degree a member can receive from the state association. To earn the degree, members needed to work more than 1,000 hours and have gross earnings of $4,000 or more, as well as be actively involved in chapter, school, and community activities. Only 2% of Ohio's FFA membership is awarded the State FFA Degree each year. The members' applications were evaluated and forwarded to state for final evaluation. The Ft. Recovery FFA Chapter is hopeful all fifteen members will earn the prestigious State FFA Degree in May.

Eight Ft. Recovery FFA members, Nathan Fortkamp, Chris Gehret, Zach Guggenbiller, Ashley Kaiser, Cody Kaiser, Aaron Sutter, Brandon Wilker, and Matt Whitacre, applied for Proficiency Awards. Nathan Fortkamp applied for the Poultry Production Proficiency for his work at Fortkamp Farms. Chris Gehret applied for the Diversified Livestock Proficiency for his work at Rocky Creek Farms, Broering Dairy Farms, and Cooper Farms. Zach Guggenbiller applied for the Dairy Production Proficiency for his work at Glacier Hill Farms. Ashley Kaiser applied for her Ag Services Proficiency at Cooper Farms. Cody Kaiser applied for the Landscape Management Proficiency for is work at Juttes Landscaping. Aaron Sutter applied for the Ag Mechanics Design and Fabrication Proficiency for his work at B and F. Brandon Wilker applied for the Ag Services Proficiency for his work at Wendel Poultry Service. Matt Whitacre applied for his Swine Production Proficiency for his work at Whitacre Farms. In order to apply for a Proficiency Award, the members were required to keep accurate records and fill out an extensive application. This application included a resume, an employer's statement, and pictures taken on the job site. Seven of the eight applications advanced through district evaluations and will be moving on to the state evaluations.

The Ft. Recovery FFA Officer Books were also evaluated. Chapter Treasurer, Michelle Brackman, received a Gold rating on the Treasurer's Book, Chapter Reporter, Emily Schoenlein and Chapter Historian, Jessica Link, earned a Gold rating on the Chapter Scrapbook, and Chapter Secretary, Stacy Will, received a Gold rating on the Secretary's Book.

The Ft. Recovery FFA Chapter would like to congratulate these individuals for their hard work this year and wish them the best of luck at state evaluations.

The board was assured that all notice requirements of ORC Section 121.22 and implementing rules adopted by the board thereunder had been complied with for this meeting.

III. Set Agenda

IV. Business & Records

B. Reports from Supervisor of Student Services, Food Service Director, Technology Director and Gifted Coordinator

VI. Superintendent’s Section

VII. Board Member Section/Discussion Only

approve the financial reports, listing of funds and payment of bills as presented.

approve the minutes of the board of education regular meeting held on January 6, 2010, and the special meeting/work session held on January 19, 2010.

C. It is recommended that the Coldwater EVSD Board of Education resolve to approve the FY10 appropriations as presented and that the appropriations will now be deemed

permanent appropriations due to final tax certification from the county auditor.

D. It is recommended that the Coldwater EVSD Board of Education resolve to hire Josh Lisi, Junior High Track Coach for the 2010 season.

E. It is recommended that the Coldwater EVSD Board of Education resolve to accept the following resignations immediately:

F. It is recommended that the Coldwater EVSD Board of Education resolve to approve the salary schedule change for Jennifer Giesige from Bachelors to 150 Semester Hours, as presented.

G. It is recommended that the Coldwater EVSD Board of Education resolve to approve the

H. It is recommended that the Coldwater EVSD Board of Education resolve to approve the

I. It is recommended that the Coldwater EVSD Board of Education resolve to approve the

donation of a football banner (valued at $199.45) from the Coldwater Athletic Boosters.

J. It is recommended that the Coldwater EVSD Board of Education resolve to approve the

request for an executive session for the discussion of compensation, employment of

Special Meeting/Work Session – February 23, 2010 – 6:00 pm – Central Office Annex

Regular Board Meeting – March 9, 2010 – 6:00 pm – Central Office Annex

CAC Meeting – March 16, 2010 – 6:30 pm – Central Office Annex – (Joe Eichler)

These are the activity statistics for the Coldwater Police Department for January 2010. It is best viewed if it expanded to full screen. This format will give you a glance at the current month as well as the year to date statistics.
Thank You,

Attendees: Jeff Selhorst, Mike Fullenkamp, Jay Hein, Robin Link, Pat Schmitt, Randy Canary, Ivan Knapp, Jerry Bollenbacher, Adam Carpenter, Steve Schulte, Jackie Lacy

Guests: Larry Bowers, Amanda Geier, Kristen Dahlinghaus, Ben Siefring, Roger Siegrist, Cheryl McKirnan

Minutes: Pat Schmitt made a motion to accept the January minutes, seconded by Robin Link. Motion passed unanimously.

Report: Steve Schulte gave a brief treasurer’s report. Jay Hein made a motion to accept the report, seconded by Ivan Knapp. Motion passed.

Bills: Jerry Bollenbacher made a motion to pay the monthly bills, seconded by Randy Canary. Motion passed.

Guests: Roger Siegrist and Ben Siefring explained the junior fair would like to make some changes in the market beef show for the 2011 fair. They explained the class changes. They feel this would provide more opportunity for the junior fair kids. They will bring the exact changes to the next board meeting for approval. They would like to get the information in this year’s fair book so people will be aware of the changes.

Amanda Geier and Kristen Dahlinghaus said the junior fair would like to add a gilt carcus show this year. To do this the senior fair would have to eliminate their open gilt carcus show. In 2009 the open show only had around 10 entries. Jeff said we would need to check with the superintendent of swine to see if they saw any problem. A decision would be made at the next meeting.

Cheryl McKirnan went over the changes to the junior fair rules and book changes. There are a few things she needs to get clarification on yet.

Larry Bowers noted that a neighboring fair has enough to run their junior fair this year and then are looking at possibly putting something on the ballot for future years.

· Web site – explained web hosting costs on server of $71.40. Ivan made a motion to pay the yearly cost of $71.40, seconded by Jay. Motion passed.

· Using Steppin Out DJ for the fair on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday cost would be $100 at night. He asked for the board to wait on taking action until after he hears what ideas T102 might have.

· John Taylor update on health issue. A card was passed around to sign and send to him at Miami Valley Hospital.

Report: Jerry said he has started sending out information for the race program ads. He explained he received information on the matching fund and this year they are allowing a $2,500 maximum.

Adam Carpenter said he would like to start thinking about what the Fairboard is going to do about a rodeo or another event. There was a brief discussion and the consensus was not to do a rodeo but have some other event and have the date earlier in the fall.

Business: Roger Niekamp - $500 added money for horse show – Jeff explained that Roger would like the Fairboard to reconsider their decision. Jeff went over some of the emails Jackie received from Roger. The Fairboard agreed to stand as is, no added money.

· Randy made a motion to raise Gate C parking lot to $15.00, seconded by Ivan. Motion passed with one Nay vote.

· Pat made a motion to keep the commercial building area at the same price, make along the building handicap only, and move the rest of the reserved area to a roped off area in the grass east of the blacktop (ticket booth area). Robin made a second to the motion. Motion passed.

Pit Passes – Adam made a motion to have pit passes for the Demo, Tug a Truck, and Motor Cross all the same at $10.00. Ivan made a second to the motion. Motion passed.

Grandstand Seating – Adam made a motion to have box seats for Demo, Tug a Truck, and Motor Cross at $5.00. Grandstand seats for Demo at $4.00 with splitting the grandstand in half for reserved and free. Robin made a second to the motion. Motion passed. Randy made a motion not to charge for box seats during harness racing and the band show, seconded by Ivan. Motion passed.

Contract signatures – After a short discussion, Robin made a motion that any or all contracts need to be signed by either the Fair Manager, President, or Secretary after board approval. Motion passed with one Nay vote.

Comments: Adam remarked that Gate D needs some work before fair. It needs to be completely open with no post in the middle. It caused some problems last year with trucks coming in. He also recommended getting better signage at the gates. He asked the advertising people to look at getting promotion on TV for the Tug a Truck and/or Motor Cross.

Robin said that each year Hospice has a auction and the Fairboard gives 4 weekly passes. She asked that this year they give 2 box seats to the Motor Cross and Tug a Truck. She feels we will get some advertisement out of this when they bring the item up for auction. Randy made a motion to give 4 weekly passes and 2 box seat tickets each to the Motor Cross and Tug a Truck, seconded by Pat. Motion passed with Robin abstaining.

Steve reminded the board that they need to decide what we will be doing at Gate C on harness nights. Jeff said he will meet with Bob Geist and Jerry to figure something out.

Jackie asked who would be interested in attending the Chamber Banquet. This is an event the Fairboard covers the cost on. Those who said they would like to attend are Pat, Jerry, Steve, Randy, and Jeff. Jackie will check with members who are absent.

Robin made a motion to have Travel’n Riverboat on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday at $550 a day, seconded by Randy.

Mercer County Pheasants Forever #745 January 4, 2010 Minutes

Minutes: (Brian) Distributed via email. Jonas Foote made motion to approve minutes with correction of next meeting date of December 14 not 7^th as stated in minutes, Pat Schmitt second – motion passed.

Treasurer's Report: (Mort) Current balance – $9118.27 Rick Klenke made motion to approve treasurer's report and pay all bills, Sean Finke second – motion passed. Southshore Sportsman made their annual donation of which this year was $1242.94.

Farm Bill Biologist: (John Wallace absent) Bill read John's attached January FBB report.

Banquet:(Gary) – January 30^th, 2010. distributed. Mark Lefeld advised only one scholarship essay has been submitted to date. Deadline for submissions is January 13^th.

Program advertising – Business card - $25, Quarter Page - $50, Half Page - $75 or Whole Page - $100

New Business: Brian Miller advised that Gary Nash's Memorial Funds were being directed to the Chapter.

- Everyone sell presale tickets on the CZ “Woodcock Deluxe” 12 gauge over/under shotgun to be drawn at the banquet

- Girls for banquet Rachel Stillwell, Chandra Heitkamp, Mindy Homan, Cassie Homan

Motion to Adjourn: Jonas Foote made motion to adjourn, Ryan Garrison second – motion passed.

Respectfully Submitted: Brian Miller

On Sunday March 28th, we'll hold our Bi-Annual Home Show at the YMCA South Branch in Minster. In preparation for the event, we're opening up booth space to SWAC Chamber Members first before we open up the booth space to outside vendors.

You've got until Feb 19th to reserve your booth space with WCSM Radio. So, contact your normal WCSM Advertising rep or call 419 586 5133 and speak to Andy Hrycko and reserve your space today.

If you're interested in donating a door prize in order to promote your business at the show, give me a call at the chamber office!

(Celina) The unique and very personal experiences of women finding their way through cancer diagnosis, treatment, and troubling appearance concerns come to life in the American Cancer Society Look Good…Feel Better® program. When a woman is undergoing treatment for cancer, she may lose her hair and experience other appearance related side effects. The impact can be devastating, making a hard time even harder.

On Monday, February 8, 2010, trained volunteer beauty professionals Theresia Hedrick and Barb Thompson will lead women through practical, hands-on tips about makeup, skin care, nail care, and ways to deal with hair loss, including how to wear wigs, turbans, and scarves. Each woman who attends will receive a free makeup kit to use during and after the workshop. Most of all, the ladies shared laughter and camaraderie as only women going through the cancer journey can.

The American Cancer Society helps cancer patients get well. The Society’s services, including Look Good…Feel Better, are available at no charge thanks to our generous supporters and local Society events including Relay For Life.

Any local residents with cancer and their families can find free information, help, and support anytime, day or night, at 1-800-227-2345 or by visiting www.cancer.org.

Look Good…Feel Better also has materials tailored for men and teens. Look Good…Feel Better is a collaboration of the Society, the Personal Care Products Council and the National Cosmetology Association.

Any woman currently undergoing cancer treatment may attend the upcoming Look Good…Feel Better session on February 8, 2010. It will be held at the Grand Lake Cancer Center on Havemann Road in Celina. There is no fee to attend, but registration is required. To register, call 1-888-227-6446 and press option 2.

On Sunday, January 31, Celina Boy Scout Troop 69 recognized new Eagle Scout Joe Heeb. On hand for the ceremony were his parents, other Eagle Scouts and Boy Scouts, friends and relatives. The ceremony was held at the Celina Knights of Columbus Hall.

Also honored was Ed Muter, Assistant Scout Leader who has given many hours of service to the local scouts. The award was presented by Scoutmaster Jerry Braun

Scoutmaster Braun reviewed the year’s many activities including the senior scouts winning the area Klondike award. Badges and scouting level awards were also presented.

Matt Eding, guest speaker talked about the iimportance of God in the Boy Scouts program. Over a dozen adult leaders were also recognize.

On January 12^th, 2010 we had our meeting for the fort pioneers 4-H club. We said that we are going to donate trophies for the Mercer County Junior Fair. Paige Pottkotter the 2009 Fair Queen talked to our club about the King and Queen Contest at the Fair. A motion was made to donate money for the King and Queen Scholarship Fund. Kyle Timmerman had a speech on Car Safety; Aaron Homan did a speech on Tractor Safety.

Babysitting safety was presented by Elle Keller; Snow Safety was presented by Ray Siefring. Sabrina Schmitz told us about duck safety; Carly Link told us how to be safe on a bike. Being safe while babysitting was discussed by Kaitlyn Pearson. To wrap up speeches we had Kruse Ranly on how to be a good CIT at camp. Jennifer Klenke started our demonstrations with how to make a ball. Heather Klenke showed us how to make a dog from a Rubik’s twist. Showing us how to make a cross stitch was Janet Osterloh. For our last demonstration Jared Heitkamp tough us how to make a page for a popup book. Congratulations to the Honor Members they are as follows Katie, Kurt, and Tracy Fortkamp, Kyle, Adam, and Monica Fullenkamp, Craig Hart, Tami Link, Melissa and Brittany Lochtefeld, Meth and Ethan Muhlenkamp, Austin Pohl, Natalie and Paige Pottkotter, Emily and Isaac Siegrist, and Rachel Moorman. After the meeting we made blankets for project linus.

Have you been looking for ways to build your career and expose yourself to relationships with other like-minded professionals? Are you seeking gainful employment or do you just need to develop your professional network? Are you trying to figure out how you can be of service to your community in a meaningful way?

(Would you like to accomplish all this and more in the company of a bunch of people who've never watched an original first run episode of The Brady Bunch?)

We're holding our first ever networking and organizational event on Thursday March 4th, from 5:30 - 7:30 pm at the Easy Restaurant on SR 33 east of St Marys. We'll have free food, a cash bar and a chance to meet some new professionals or professional "wanna-bes" that have a desire to do some productive networking and possibly do some good works in the community.

You'll have the opportunity to join the group that evening and help get GLYP off the ground, up and running! Come be a part of something fun, interesting and helpful to you and your community!

To anyone tuning into the Governor’s State of the State address last week it was clear that with an unemployment rate approaching 11 percent and more than 330,000 jobs lost since 2006, the Governor may have finally gotten the message that creating jobs is what is on the mind of all Ohioans. My concern is that his only answer to the economic challenges we face seems to be creating more government programs, when really what we should be doing is everything we can to get government out of the way so that our small businesses and entrepreneurs can thrive.

By my count, the Governor proposed more than a dozen new state programs -- the Energy Gateway Fund, Small Business Growth Partnership, Insource Ohio, Manufacturing Certificate, Build Your Own Business (BYOB), Urban Workforce Initiative, Fast TRAC, Hubs of Innovation, Ohio Neighborhood Harvest – the list goes on and on. While he has not yet provided details to members of the General Assembly, it appears that many of his “new” ideas are repackaged existing programs -- essentially replacing the window dressings when what Ohio needs is a major remodel in how government treats Ohio employers. The Governor spent much of his hour in the spotlight saying he wants to be friendly to business, but recent actions by his Administration tell an entirely different story.

To close a shortfall in state education funding caused by his failed bid to install slot machines at the state’s racetracks, the Governor pushed to delay a 4.2 percent income tax cut scheduled to take place in 2009. He called it a “freeze” but keep in mind that Ohio taxpayers and small businesses that pay their business taxes via the income tax had based their withholdings on the lower rate for the entire year. In late December, the Governor pulled the proverbial rug out from under them. These businesses and individuals will be paying more this April than they planned – that’s clearly a tax increase when so many are struggling to make ends meet.

Adding insult to injury, many Ohio employers will be paying higher income taxes at the same time the state Bureau of Workers’ Compensation continues to jack up their premiums. Despite a $4 billion surplus and the fact that we are facing one of the worst economic climates in our nation’s history, the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation is moving forward with plans to reduce the level of discounts long-afforded to Ohio companies participating in the Bureau’s group-rating system beginning on July 1, 2010. This is on top of already approved discount reductions and added surcharges since 2005, and will result in significant premium increases for many small businesses at a time when many are struggling to make their payrolls and keep their doors open.

I sponsored and passed a bill in the Senate last week that would freeze maximum premium discounts at the level they will be on July 1^st for two years, eliminate an added surcharge approved by the BWC and require the Bureau to conduct a thorough study of the premium rating system to determine the best course of action in the future. Senate Bill 213, which is now pending in the Ohio House, would save group-rated companies approximately $130 million over two years – money that could be reinvested in their companies to keep and create jobs – while not impacting the rates paid by non group-rated employers. I hope that the Governor and his fellow Democrats in the Ohio House will join the Senate and prevent the Bureau from needlessly driving up the cost of doing business in Ohio over the next two years.

The Ohio House has yet to take action on a regulatory reform bill the Senate passed with unanimous bipartisan support in March. If we want to send a message to Ohio employers that Ohio is open for business, we should get serious about cutting government red tape and regulations that needlessly drive up their costs and eat up their precious time. As chairman of the Regulatory Reform Task Force, I spent a summer traveling around the state and formulating recommendations based on the testimony of businesses, chambers of commerce and economic development professionals who told us that permits and fines, bureaucracy and paperwork are high on their list of challenges to creating jobs and doing business in Ohio. I urge the House to join the Senate in getting these important reforms to the Governor’s desk as soon as possible.

There are many other concerns on the horizon for Ohio business owners coming out of Washington DC. If passed today, the federal health care “reform” bill would do very little to cut health care costs, but most certainly would drive up the cost to states through the Medicaid program (leading to higher state taxes on businesses and individuals) and the cost to small businesses who are already struggling to provide health care to their employees. In addition, new air quality standards and “Cap and Trade” legislation also threaten to increase regulatory costs on businesses operating throughout the industrial Midwest. Rather than spending all his chips to advocate for more federal stimulus money, perhaps the Governor should use his considerable influence with President Obama and the Democrats in Congress to say NO to job-killing federal mandates. That would do wonders for Ohio employers’ ability to keep their doors open and create more jobs.

In the months ahead, I will be glad to look at any new proposal the Governor puts on the table to keep and create Ohio jobs; however, there are a number tangible things we can do today that will put Ohio on stronger footing to turn our economy around.

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.

There will be a Business Expo Committee Meeting this coming Monday, February 8, at the Village Hall at 8:15AM

Community Building in April ?? only a few dates available one of which was 4/3 (Easter)

One of which was the 14th Sunday - from noon to 4 With set up being from 8-noon.

Potentially you could have it Saturday evening as well. Setup from 4:30 - 6:30pm with expo starting from 7 to 9.

Since Sandy and Mark came to represent the Park Board, they can update us on the permanent pavilion. Sandy stated that Mike Bruns has turned in 2 quotes. Still waiting on some quotes from Steve Gehle and Wilbur Welling contacts. Basic structure is

52’ x 104’. Quotes turned in do not include the concrete pad. The pavilion will start out basic - will add electricity and lights, etc. as funds become available. The concrete can be done at a later time also. There are a lot of options with this building. The Shane Hall, the Shelter House and the Community Building are all booked on a regular basis. This will give us another avenue for income. Everything is in the works and should be completed by Community Days.

Mike mentioned that the Rockford 5K will be donating $2800 to the Park Board for the permanent pavilion project.

Kerry Roehm came to represent the Rockford Rec Association. They will be sponsoring the Chick Steward Tournament again this year. They will be starting the games later Saturday morning and continue into the evening. This may help get some people to stay around the park longer.

Group decided to go with inflatables instead of rides. This will make it more feasible for families to come to the park and enjoy themselves without having to spend a lot of money on rides. We will contact inflatable company . Will have more information at the next meeting. Need to get businesses, churches, and organizations to help sponsor. We will charge a flat rate for wrist bands for each day. Other locations charge $7.00 for each child for each day. Need to get manpower to watch the inflatable area – Music Boosters, other school organizations that need some community service, Laurels and Colonial personnel.

Entertainment - working on getting Clowns For God and Muhlenkamp Juggler for Saturday afternoon. Would like the Parkway Alumi Band to play on Friday evening from 5:30 – 7 pm.

Amy to contact Alyssa to see if she is interested in doing a Pageant this year on Friday night.

Saturday night band – mentioned Section 8 – from Van Wert, Backseat Driver, Borrowed Time is already booked.

Jenny to contact Amy Branstetter regarding the Chatt Picnic to get some information on events that were successful.

Chamber – asking FBLA to sell cookies in along with Chamber Ice Cream. Mentioned

Murphy USA is dedicated to providing customers with discount gas prices and friendly service. Celina Mercer County Chamber gift certificates can now be used at this gas station. Visit www.murphyusa.com

Pictured from left to right: Kathy Koch, Murphy USA Manager & Pam Buschur, Chamber Director

The Mercer County Fair Board will sponsor a Garage Sales on Saturday, April 17 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Junior Fair Building. Deadline for reservations is April 1. Call 419-586-3239 for details.

10 by 10 foot space, $15 each. Buy as many spaces as you want. Must provide own tables or rental information will be available. Listing of each vendors items will be provided to buyers. Each vendor is responsible for own money/change. No guns, kn ives, or weapons.

Celina, Ohio – The Business Enterprise Center (BEC) at Wright State University–Lake Campus offers professional, cost-effective services to support the area’s businesses and industrial economic development. Included in these services are training courses that can enhance technical skills necessary to a successful workforce.

Registration is underway for winter classes through the BEC. There will be several different types of computer training classes that include basic computer training, Excel and QuickBooks. These classes are very much in demand from most small and mid-sized business owners and employees.

OSHA Construction Outreach Training is a 10-hour class offering the basics of construction safety regulations. The popular “Starting Right” seminar will once again be offered to help maximize the potential of your new business. Learn how to borrow money, write a business plan and address legal and tax issues before you start your business.

A series of three classes will be offered on the hot topic of social media. You will learn how to effectively use Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, blogs and other social media websites for your business.

You must pre-register for all classes by phone (419) 586-0355, fax (419) 586-0358, or e-mail: carol.jones@wright.edu

This popular accounting program is recommended for many small businesses. Class participants will be instructed in voice/statement preparation, inventory tracking, payroll, and financial reporting. The class accommodates beginning and veteran users who want to learn more about how this software can help their business. All participants completing the 12-hour workshop will receive a certificate.

WHEN: Monday, Wednesday & Thursday; March 22, 24 & 25
TIME: 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
WHERE: Lake Campus, Rm. 194 Dwyer Hall
COST: $125 per person
INSTRUCTOR: Ron Kremer, Associate Professor of Accountancy, Lake Campus

Learn to use Microsoft Excel, one of the best spreadsheet programs for businesses. The emphasis of this 9-hour seminar is on record keeping, business applications using Excel, and various techniques using the spreadsheet. Learn Excel formulas for basic to complex computations. All participants completing the 9-hour workshop will receive a certificate.

WHEN: Monday, Wednesday & Thursday; March 22, 24 & 25
TIME: 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
WHERE: Lake Campus, Rm. 192 Dwyer Hall

COST: $110 per person
INSTRUCTOR: Carla Hirschfeld, Lake Campus Instructor

Would you like to be more comfortable working with your home or business computer? Would you like to connect with friends, family and business contacts by e-mail? Would you like to post your resume online and learn how to do online job searches? This 15-hour course can help! Learn the basics of the Window Operating System, Internet applications, and MS Office plus learn basic computer skills for work and play.

Mercer County Location
Lake Campus; Celina, OH
WHEN: February 8-12
TIME: 10:00 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.
WHERE:196 Dwyer Hall
COST: Free if you qualify for WIA. Call the WIA office at 419-586-5106. If space allows for other participants, the cost is $125/person
INSTRUCTOR:Carla Hirschfeld

Auglaize County Location
Wapakoneta, OH
WHEN: February 15, 16, 17, 22 & 24
TIME: 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
WHERE: Administration Building Meeting Room
COST: Free if you qualify for WIA. Call the WIA office at 419-586-5106. If space allows for other participants, the cost is $125/person
INSTRUCTOR: Carla Hirschfeld

This 10-hour class offers the basics of construction safety regulations. Topics to be covered include: Intro to OSHA, the Focus Four topics, Personal Protective Equipment, Hazard Communication & Silica as well as industry topics such as Material Handling, Stairways & Ladders, Tools, etc. You and your employees need to have OSHA certification for HB 80 regulations. OSHA compliance may be required for projects funded by the federal stimulus package. Lunch will be provided to all participants!

WHEN: March 3 & 4
TIME: 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
COST: $150 per person
INSTRUCTOR: Joe Hammond

We can help you maximize the potential of your new business by “Starting Right.” Learn what steps are required to borrow money, how to write a business plan, and what tax and legal issues you need to be aware of before you start your business. You will receive a “Starting Right” packet with plenty of information to begin the start-up process and qualify for free, confidential counseling.
WHEN: February 18th or March 18th
Van Wert area Starting Right classes are also available on Thursday, February 25th or Thursday, March 25th. Please call 419-238-2999 to register.
WHERE: Lake Campus, Rm. 126 Trenary Hall
TIME: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
INSTRUCTOR: Ron Kremer, BEC Consultant
COST: $35/business at both locations

The Business Enterprise Center is happy to announce a series of three interrelated classes on the hot topics of Social Media. This series features discount pricing if you attend all three classes or á la carte pricing if you attend only one. Must pre-register and sign up for the series or individual class.

COST: Á la carte pricing---$50 per class
Series pricing---$125 for all three classes
Must have 10 students registered to run this class

Class 1
Offers an overview of the “new” way to socially interact on the web. This class will include descriptions and show you
how to use Face Book, LinkedIn, Twitter accounts as well as learn about YouTube, handheld devices, and the apps for
social media. You will learn terminology and how you—or your business—can incorporate this technology into your
marketing plans…
Dates: Thursday, March 11, 2010;
Time: 4 to 7 p.m.; Room 196 Dwyer Hall
Instructor: Pete & Twyla Hayes, Brand It! Design

Class 2
Social Networking will be explored with an in-depth look at Face Book and LinkedIn. You will be able to create and
complete an account on Face Book and LinkedIn as well as learn how to use them for business. Explore the differences
and similarities of these two programs while discovering all the possibilities…
Dates: Thursday, March 25, 2010;
Time: 4 to 7 p.m.; Room 196 Dwyer Hall
Instructor: Pete & Twyla Hayes, Brand It! Design

Class 3
You will learn about blogs and video sharing in the final class of the series. You will learning what blogging is and
how to effectively use Twitter for your business. You will create digital video and learn about YouTube.
Dates: Thursday, April 8, 2010;
Time: 4 to 7 p.m.; Room 196 Dwyer Hall
Instructor: Pete & Twyla Hayes, Brand It! Design

The 2010 Mercer County Spelling Bee was held on February 1, 2010 at Wright State University-Lake Campus in the James F. Dicke Hall. Twenty-five participants from the Mercer County Schools took part in the spelling bee. Students represented the Coldwater, Ft. Recovery, Marion, Parkway, and St. Henry Schools.

The "champion" of the 2010 Mercer County Spelling Bee is Grace Linn, a seventh grader from Parkway Middle School. Grace lives in Rockford with her parents, Randy and Paula Linn. The "winning" word Grace spelled correctly was "synthetically” in Round 13.

The 2010 Mercer County Spelling Bee first "runner-up" is Olivia Hemmelgarn, an eighth grader from Marion Elementary School. Olivia lives in Maria Stein with her parents, Mark and Kathleen Hemmelgarn.

The 2010 Mercer County Spelling Bee second “runner-up” is Chase Hemmelgarn, an eighth grader from St. Henry Middle School. Chase lives in St. Henry with his parents, Bill and Deb Hemmelgarn.

Grace, Olivia, and Chase will represent the Mercer County Schools at the Regional Spelling Bee that will be held in Lima on March 20, 2010. The winner of the Regional Bee will advance to the national competition held in Washington, D.C. in May.

Olivia Hemmelgarn (first runner-up), Grace Linn (champion), and Chase Hemmelgarn (second runner-up).

JAMES (JIM) A. WIECHART, P.E., P.S.

Mercer County Engineer

REPORT FOR 2009

Although it was not entirely beneficial to those among us in agri-business, the dry year of 2009 greatly aided in road and bridge construction projects. The significant recession which started in 2008 and continued through 2009 put an economic stress on a great many residents of our county. The predominant base revenue source for our efforts (gas tax and license fees) dropped from past years; decreasing our base revenue. Some contracting sectors that we bid out saw decreasing costs while other contracting sectors (asphalt resurfacing) continued their upward cost trend. Improving the safety of our local roadways is a primary mission of our office. We continue to improve our efficiency in engineering operations and management to provide the best value that we possibly can for every tax dollar spent.

No federal stimulus funds were used by our office despite applying for said funds through 40+ projects, many of which were “shovel-ready” within a month of possible bidding. Unlike our federal government, we must balance our budget and live within our means. We willingly do this while we select needed projects without politicizing bridge and road projects and deferring to the professionalism and sound engineering that the requirements of our office instill.

If a vain glossy picturesque report is what you desire you will find this lacking. If, however, you want the facts about the details of what your County Engineer’s Office has completed in 2009, this simple, but accurate report will be sure to satisfy. All who work here played a part in the details of the achievements in this report. Without the diligent efforts of our employees this report would be much smaller and less extensive. Because of the economy and a drop in our revenue all of our employees did not receive any upward scale adjustment of their wages. Despite this, we are driven to do the best to serve our public and, on behalf of our employees, we thank you for that opportunity.

REVENUE/EXPENDITURES

Carryover monies and grants make up the difference between expenditures and revenues.

2009 ROAD RESURFACING

The Shelly Company Inc. was awarded a contract for the county road resurfacing. All resurfacing was funded with county revenues.

Note: Other resurfacing was done through roadway reconstruction projects listed elsewhere within this report.

11 ROADS RECEIVED CHIP AND SEAL SURFACES

BRIDGE RECONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

Bridge maintenance was completed on many structures. Those maintenance details are not listed herein. Replacements and rehabs are detailed in this report. One very large replacement occurred in Dublin Township on Frysinger Road over the St. Marys River. 8 bridge projects and 14 large culverts were completed. Most of the projects are complete replacements with those listed with an “R” next to the type are a “rehabilitation”. At this time, there are only 2 bridges left on county and township roads with load restrictions. Both of those bridges are slated to be replaced in 2010.

2009 BRIDGE & LARGE CULVERT REPLACEMENT PROGRAM

ROAD RECONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

The following roadways were improved with the pavement and shoulders being widened:

Cost: $467,633 Loan: $300,000 (Ohio Public Works Commission 20 Year 0% Interest Loan)

PAVEMENT MARKINGS

The following pavement markings were placed: 393 miles of centerline, 116 miles of edge line and 8 railroad locations, at a cost of $150,000. (100% federal funds)

MAINTENANCE

Roadside maintenance of existing roadway components is a very important part of our operations. During 2009 there were 1002 signs replaced out of 5945 in the inventory. 11 miles of roads were spot-paved.

Due to lack of growth of ditches from limited rainfall, the 8 county mowers were shut down Fair Week, but still managed to mow 390 miles of county roads making anywhere from 5 to 7 rounds in some sections. The additional passes in some sections were due to the hit or miss rainfall throughout the county. The mowing of county open ditches and maintenance ditches, with some touch-up was completed before mowers were put away for the season. County crews installed 84 catch basins. 9 different locations had trees cut and brush removed. Approximately 1500’ of old fence was removed.

In fighting snow and ice, 1196 tons of salt were purchased at a cost of $66,393.10 and 1196 tons of grit were purchased at a cost of $7,912.87. 1013 hours of overtime were worked in snow removal. In all, the costs of snow and ice control and removal to our operations in 2009 were $284,310.11.

The Dalton’s received the contract for roadside herbicide spraying. The bid price per mile of roadside was $50.00. The total amount for treating both sides of all county roads was $19,150.

LITTER PICK-UP

The County Engineer’s Office, in partnership with the Mercer County Solid Waste Office and various Boards of Township Trustees, sponsored various civic and community groups in 11 Mercer County townships to pick up litter along county roads in 2009. The county paid the group $20.00 per mile for their efforts in this community service project. A total of 299 miles was picked up. The county furnished litterbags, safety vests, and signs and paid the tipping fees in disposal of the litter.

PERSONNEL

A total of 25 full time employees make up our personnel. In the year 2009 there were 14 part-time and seasonal employees that worked for the Engineer. In 1994 we had 30 full-time employees. In 1984 there were 39 full-time employees.

EQUIPMENT PURCHASES/FACILITY UPGRADES

INTERESTING FACTS

There are 447.906 miles of township roads and 387.945 miles of county roads in Mercer County.

Since 1999 the Mercer County Engineer has obtained approximately $2,899,817 in competitive state grant programs for local road improvements.

Since 1999 the Mercer County Engineer has obtained $15,967,446 in competitive federal grant programs for local road improvements.

No real estate, sales or property taxes fund county road and local road bridge improvements in Mercer County. Road user fees in the form of motor vehicle gas taxes and license fees fund our efforts.

The number of Mercer County Engineer full and part-time employees has decreased over the last 20 years with less resources going towards salaries and fringe benefits as a percentage of the total budget.

SUMMARY

Much was accomplished in 2009 and we welcome your comments, suggestions and questions to our office: Mercer County Engineer, 321 Riley Street, Celina OH 45822, Phone# 419-586-7759, e-mail: engineer@mercercountyohio.org. Listed below are some of the short and long-term goals for the office for the years to come.

2. Obtain outside funding sources to supplement our budget for capital improvements.

3. Be aggressive in putting significant resources into capital improvement projects like roadway widening, bridge replacements, etc.

4. Complete the development of the Mercer County Engineer facility west of Celina.

5. Assist townships in getting outside funding sources for their capital improvement projects.

6. 24’ by “24”—long-term goal to have all county road pavements widened to a minimum width of 24’ by the year 2024.

Tri Star Career Compact’s Precision Machining program will be highlighted at the Ohio Economic-Education Summit, February 22-24 in Columbus. This program is taught by Rob Menker with the class being held at the Denning’s Building in St. Marys. The Summit will bring together 600 business/industry representatives and educators to study the needs of industries to ultimately improve Ohio’s economic development.

Ohio School Superintendent, Deb Delisle, is scheduled to make the Tri Star program and Coldwater Machine Company’s apprenticeship program, the focus of her presentation. The presentation will focus on the need for skilled labor in Ohio. These jobs do not require a four year degree, but can be obtained through apprenticeship programs as well as two-year technical programs.

Tri Star’s Precision Machining program was selected because it meets the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) initiative. Currently, 25% of Coldwater Machine’s workforce is made up of Tri Star graduates from the Precision Machining and Engineering Technology programs. Some of these students have been involved with million dollar projects that have been shipped all over the world.

Discussing a work project at Coldwater Machine are (in the foreground) Eric Troy, Asst. Director of Career Technical Education- Ohio Department of Education; (in the background from left) Jerry Meyer, President – Coldwater Machine; Pat Huston, Manager, Products & Customer Services for the Office of Career Technical Education- Ohio Department of Education; Rob Menker, Tri Star’s Precision Machining Instructor, and Vic Belna, Technical Development Manager - Coldwater Machine.

The American Red Cross Bloodmobile will be at Midwest Electric on Friday, February 12, from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. for area residents to donate blood.

Midwest Electric is located at 06029 County Road 33A, east of St. Marys. Please contact Matt Berry at Midwest Electric, during working hours Monday through Friday, at 419-394-4110, to schedule your blood donation appointment.

· The three main components of whole blood are red cells, platelets and plasma.

· All blood types are needed, but type O negative and B negative are in high demand.

· Type O is the blood most requested by hospitals, and can be transfused to patients with other blood types such as A, B and AB.

· Platelets are frequently prescribed to help patients undergoing treatment for cancer, leukemia and other serious diseases, as well as for babies in neonatal intensive care and burn victims.

· Blood donors with type AB are ideal for platelet donation. Type AB is the universal blood type for platelets—which means most anyone with any blood type can receive type AB platelets.

· Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), meet weight and height requirements (110 pounds or more, depending on their height) and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.

· Donors may give whole blood up to six times per year or every 56 days, double red cells every 112 days or up to three times per year, and platelets every seven days or up to 24 times a year.

Mercer Health announced today that Mercer County Community Hospital has removed visitor restrictions that began October 26, 2009, in an effort to minimize the spread of respiratory infections to patients, employees, and the community. The restriction limited visitation by anyone under the age of 17.

Although the limit has been lifted, hospital officials asked that anyone who is ill with any respiratory ailments such as a fever, chills, headache, vomiting, sore throat, muscle aches or diarrhea avoid coming to the hospital to visit.

Karen Smalley, RN, Director of Risk Management, states, “Although we have lifted the restriction, we are continuing to watch our patient census and the types of patients we are treating. If we see a dramatic increase in the number of flu-like symptoms, we may put the restriction back in place. We are still urging everyone to take the necessary precautions to prevent contracting or transmitting the seasonal flu.”

Those precautions include covering the nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, properly washing hands frequently, and consider getting a flu shot if available. Smalley notes, “January or later is considered the peak season for seasonal influenza. Getting a flu vaccine shot now can still be an effective means to avoid getting sick this winter. Those interested in getting a seasonal flu shot should contact their primary care physician.”

Although there has been a decline of the H1N1 flu virus, hospital officials are continuing to monitor the situation. Persons interested in learning more about seasonal flu and flu prevention should visit www.flu.gov.

When Ohioans send their hard-earned tax dollars to Columbus, they rightly expect state government to use these resources in the most efficient and effective way possible. This past week, the Ohio Senate approved legislation that works to bring Ohio closer to this goal and create an environment in our state where government doesn’t stand in the way of businesses’ ability to grow, invest and create jobs.

Senate Bill 4, which I co-sponsored, would require the Auditor of State to conduct performance audits of several state agencies, including the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, the Ohio Department of Health and the Ohio Department of Agriculture, to improve operations in these departments and eliminate burdensome rules and regulations that are impediments to economic development in our state. In addition, the bill requires the Auditor to create a schedule for periodic performance audits of all other major state agencies.

By helping to make state government more efficient, SB 4 also has the potential to save Ohio taxpayers millions of dollars every year. In 2005, voters in the state of Washington passed an initiative granting their auditor the authority to conduct performance audits of state government agencies. Since then, the state has invested $11 million to pay for audits that have identified $300 million in savings for taxpayers.

Further, during testimony on SB 4 in the Senate State & Local Government & Veterans’ Affairs Committee, representatives from the Ohio Society of Certified Public Accountants estimated that our state could save $24 for every dollar we spend on performance audits. The group also urged support for performance audits as part of a series of budget recommendations this past year.

My colleagues and I in the Senate have repeatedly voiced strong concerns about the stability of Ohio’s budget in future years, and we have called for the Legislature and the Governor to act now to significantly reduce state government spending. We are expected to face a $4 to $8 billion structural deficit when is comes time to draft the next state budget bill in 2011. Implementing regular performance audits of state agencies would be an effective first step in this effort, while helping to make Ohio a friendlier and more competitive place to do business. However, regardless of the state’s budget situation, it is simply the right thing to do for Ohio taxpayers.

I will work in the coming weeks to make the case for SB 4 in the Ohio House, as I continue to look for responsible ways to reduce the size of state government, improve our economy and put Ohioans back to work.

For more information on SB 4, please visit the Ohio General Assembly’s website at www.legislature.state.oh.us.

I encourage you to contact me with any questions, thoughts or concerns, or if you need assistance working with a state government agency. You can write me, Senator Steve Buehrer, Ohio Senate, Statehouse, Columbus, Ohio, 43215, or contact me by phone at (614) 466-8150. I can also be reached by email at SD01@senate.state.oh.us. In addition, for more information about my work in the Ohio Senate, please visit my page on the new Senate website at www.ohiosenate.gov/steve-buehrer.

Attendees: Jeff Selhorst, Ryan Muhlenkamp, Mike Fullenkamp, Jay Hein, Robin Link, Nick Grier, Pat Schmitt, Randy Canary, Kris Hinton, Emily Breymaier, Kevin Anspach, Steve Schulte, Jackie Lacy

Guests: Glen Florence, Larry Bowers, Connie Fuller, Doug Breymaier, Luke Lebert, and Jayse White

Minutes: Nick Grier made a motion to accept the December minutes, seconded by Kris Hinton. Motion passed unanimously.

Report: Emily Breymaier gave a brief treasurer’s report. Robin Link made a motion to accept the report, seconded by Mike Fullenkamp. Motion passed.

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

Guests: Doug Breymaier was there with Luke Lebert and Jayse White to discuss having motor cross at the fair. There was discussion on what day, building the track, amount of dirt needed, and equipment needed. They said everyone would pay at the gate but the rider and one person would get into the pit free. There would be no prizes needed from the Fairboard. A squad would be needed on hand at the track. An announcer and straw bales for safety would be needed from the Fairboard. The cost would be $5600 if they need to rent equipment to do the track or $4100 if the Fairboard supplies the equipment.

Connie Fuller said she was present because of interest in being on the Fairboard. Randy Canary made a motion to appoint Connie to Washington Township, seconded by Mike. Motion passed.

· Commissioners asked that we bid the 5.4 acres on the other side of fence when we do hay bids

· Greg Peck asked for an advance on his contract. Fairboard did not agree to this.

Report: Kris said he can get the kids day tractors donated if we pay the shipping. Emily made a motion to pay the shipping, seconded by Jay Hein. Motion passed.

Kris said he’s been checking on the tug a truck pad. To build the track he has a bid from Neal Klosterman for $2500. Hirshfeld will donate rebar and ½ the concrete for a sponsorship. Nick said he can get the stone, dug, formed & poured for a sponsorship but we need to get the cement. Kris and Nick are going to continue to see what they can get done.

Nick said he got a call from someone from MISHINDOH to do a brush pull. Jeff said he has been talking to MISHINDOH also. Nick asked Jeff to wait on doing anything until after MISHINDOH has their meeting next week.

Ryan Muhlenkamp said he doesn’t see a problem with the junior fair doing the sheep show by breed. He said he’s gotten calls were others feel a questionnaire should go out to see how all those showing feel.

Business: Grandstand schedule: There was discussion on motor cross, tug a truck, tractor pull, and demo. Kevin Anspach made a motion to have motor cross on Friday, tug a truck on Saturday, and the demo on Thursday. Kris made a second to the motion. Motion passed with one nay vote.

Robin made a motion to pay $2500 for the tug a truck with Nick running the event. Motion passed with Nick abstaining from the vote.

Business: Annual Report: Emily made a motion to pass the annual report, seconded by Mike. Motion passed.

Vendor Contracts: Pat Schmitt made a motion to raise vendor camping to $150, seconded by Mike. Motion passed. Randy made a motion to raise each electric rate by $20, seconded by Jay. Motion passed. Mike made a motion to charge utilities needed for stock trucks, seconded by Randy. Motion passed.

A suggested was made to have tags made to hang at vendor hook up to who made the hook up and what the vendor is suppose to have.

· Emily made a motion to have Clark Station for $150 on Senior Day, seconded by Mike. Motion passed.

· Emily made a motion to have square dancing on senior day for $125, seconded by Connie Fuller. Motion passed.

· Jay made a motion to have bingo senior day with $100 in premiums, seconded by Kris. Motion passed.

· Kris made a motion to have Thaddeus Rex on kids day if the cost is $500 or cheaper with sponsors, seconded by Mike. Motion passed.

· Bear Hollow Wood Carvers will do 4 carvings a day that will be ours to auction off for 3 days at $3900. Kris made a motion to have them Friday, Saturday, & Sunday. Nick made a second to the motion. Motion passed. Emily made a motion to have four of the carvings for the clubs, seconded by Robin. Motion passed.

· Nashville Crush – Randy made a motion to have them Saturday night in the beer gardens for $1500, seconded by Jay. Motion passed.

Roger Niekamp asked that the Fairboard to give $500 added money for the Sunday horse show. After a short discussion, Emily made a motion not to give the $500 added money, seconded by Jay. The motion passed with a hand count of 8-3, not to give the money.

Jackie explained that Experience Works has said Marcy can come back to the fairgrounds to work. Ryan made a motion to have her back at no cost to the Fairboard, seconded by Kevin. Motion passed.

Sponsorship Meal – Ryan made a motion to have the meal on March 18^th at the same time as last year with the same caterer if possible, seconded by Kevin. Motion passed.

Office personnel – It was explained that Cara has not had a raise in over a year. She is currently making $8.50 an hour. Jackie explained that Cara knows about as much as she does on what needs to be done. She would hate to lose Cara. Jackie said it has also been over a year since she has gotten a raise but she would rather see Cara get one. Jay made a motion to give Cara a 50 cent an hour raise, seconded by Kris. Motion passed with one nay and one abstained vote.

Comments: Cheryl McKirnan arrived late because of a Junior Fairboard meeting. She asked when the Fairboard would like to see rule changes. She was asked to get them to Jackie as soon as possible so she can make copies for board members before the next meeting.

Bids for fair will be going in the paper for restroom cleaning, trophies, radios, and portable toilets.

(editor’s note: I wrote this story some time ago, only to find out the story may have originally been shared by the late John D. McDonald.)

My favorite ground hog story appears in a short story by William Faulkner. The part about the ground hog is told by a young boy, junior high age or thereabouts, who is just beginning to learn what the world is really all about.

Now I may not have all the particulars accurate since it’s been awhile since I read the story, but anyway this young fellow is recalling the time his pappy and grandpappy and uncle and a couple older kids were hunting ground hogs, something they did in Yoknapatawpha County in the Mississippi Delta as they did (and still do as far as I know) here in Mercer County, Ohio.

Many a boy’s first target with a new rifle is a ground hog sitting up there motionless on its back feet down by the creek or across the woodlot. And still they come, undeterred by man, no matter how many die from the rifle or at the worst end of battle to the death with a good hunting dog (who may himself by the loser in the battle.)

Anyway, Yoknapatawpha clan spent hours of their life hunting for groundhogs. Now there was this one wise old “Whistle Pig,” as they are also called, who could out smart the bunch of them year after year after year.

Every year, at about this time of year, pappy and grandpappy and the kinfolk would begin preparing for Him to make his first appearance from the hole where he had been hibernating all winter.

And then the whole clan would get all bundled up to face the February weather and find a place several yards from the hole to sit and wait for his appearance.

Some days, there was nothing but waiting. And then, once in a while, there would be days when the bets on whether he would show his head was just as even on that he hadn’t begun to move from his winter sleep.

This long wait in the cold and the wind and the snow, all dotted with brief moments of sun, went on, it seemed, like forever. Day after day, hour after hour–sitting there in the cold with gun in hand, waiting for Granddaddy Groundhog to show himself.

“We waited most of my young life on that groundhog.” Every year February was dedicated to hunting groundhog, specifically THE GROUND HOG.

The pattern of the ground hog hunt was so routine, that it was a tradition that outdone the calendar of time itself. After January, the month of February became “the ground hog hunt.”

“Then one crisp, bright February morning, it all came to an end. I can still hear the crack of my Pappy’s rifle in my ear, which was followed by the gad-awfullest cursing I have ever heard–from Pappy and Grandpappy, cousin Luke and even Zeke, who never ever said much of anything.

“What in the world had happened? I was too shell-shocked to ask. Guns and ammunition were stashed and we walked out to the rising where he lay. They cut a sapling and tied him to it and then drug him back to the house.

“That was the beginning of my growing up. It was the first time that I came across the idea–that things aren’t necessarily what they seem. How many years I had seen first hand the determination of my own father, and his father, and all the relatives to get that hairy fellow. Now that that was achieved, all I can remember is all that cussin.”

So it is, I learned, about this whole business of predicting the weather by the appearance of Mr. Ground Hog’s kin. “It don’t mean nothing. Groundhogs sleep until their done sleeping–and for most of us, we’re going to have some more winter, now that it’s finally arrived, no matter whether the ground hog sees his shadow or not.”

Besides, at this point, if he does make an appearance, it isn’t the sun he’s got on his mind. In the last few days, I’ve learned more about ground hogs, i.e. woodchucks, i.e. whistle pigs than I care to know and probably you care to find out.

For example, ground hogs are prevalent over “all of Canada, north to Alaska, and across eastern U.S.” They are described as “14-20 inches long, 5-10 pounds, but up to 25 pounds or more, sturdy, thickset, ground-dwelling rodents allied to the ground squirrels, with a large head, chunky body, short legs and small bushy tail often seen sitting motionless up right on its back legs, and when upset, “rattling its teeth and warning the young with a shrill, short, explosive whistle.”

Contrary to popular belief among the farmers, the groundhog is “not only good for nothing,” but according to the article in a local paper in 1950, is good for eating. I’ll take the author’s word for it.

According to all those sources of I dug up, the groundhog sleeps in a hole that may extend 20 to 30 feet and may sleep right through Groundhog’s Day and only stirs sometime in late March when Old Man Winter has indeed given away to spring. Groundhogs hibernate all winter, living on the fat they have built up. The curl up in a ball, with “their head tucked in between their legs and arms folded around their necks,” at a body temperature somewhere between 43 degrees and 57 degrees. They sleep away the winter.

The males are first to show themselves. And when they awake, it isn’t food they got on their mind–or maybe because of it, one of their first actions is to fight the first male they see; and then to mate with the first female thereafter. Four to nine young “whistlers” are born in about 4 weeks, tiny, blind and hairless.

Ground Hog’s Day reminds us all that at least the winter months of November and December and January are over, and somewhere beneath the snow, young roots of another year are preparing to push shoots upwards, no matter what the ground hog is doing or thinking–“Oh, Wind, if winter comes, can spring be far behind.”

Tri-Moraine Audubon Society will feature “Why are some male prairie chickens so sexy?” on Tuesday, February 2 at 7:30 p.m.in the meeting room at the Agricultural Service Center, 3900 Campus Driver, OSU-Lima. Take the Mumaugh Road entrance to the OSU campus. The Agricultural Service Center is the first building to your left (first left turn). Note, change in meeting location meeting.

Dr. Jackie Augustine, Assistant Professor, Biology Department, OSU-Lima will discuss her PhD work in Kansas. She studied prairie chickens for five years examining the morphology, behavior, territory, and testosterone of male prairie chickens. The presentation will be geared to the nature enthusiast and will include photos and videos of prairie chickens. Parking available. Follow the Audubon signs. The program is free and open to the public.

Tri-Moraine Audubon Society announces the 13^th annual Great Backyard Bird Count, Friday through Monday, February 12-15, hosted by the National Audubon Society and Cornell Lab of Ornithology and sponsored in part by Wild Brids Unlimited. Partilcipation in the GBGC is free, educational, and best of all fun.

This online citizens science census counts birds anywhere at any time during the scheduled weekend and data is sent in via the internet. Short or long, your lists will help scientists understand more about how the distribution and abundance of birds are chaning through time.

This is a great activity for individuals, community groups, classrooms, and families. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Obtain more information, easy-to-follow instructions, and download a checklist for your area by visting www.birdsource.org The website has great tips and resources (including Power Point presentations) to use.

SENATOR FABER PASSES LEGISLATION TO PROTECT OHIO SMALL BUSINESSES FROM FURTHER ‘RATE SHOCK’ ON THEIR BWC PREMIUMS AND SAVE OHIO JOBS

COLUMBUS – State Senator Keith Faber (R-Celina) today passed Senate Bill 213, legislation that would protect Ohio small businesses participating in the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation group rating programs from further “rate shock” during one of the worst economic climates in Ohio history.

The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) is in the process of addressing disparity in rates paid by different Ohio businesses to ensure the long-term solvency of the state’s injured workers’ fund. At present, the Bureau intends to move forward with plans to reduce the level of discounts long-afforded to Ohio group-rated companies beginning on July 1, 2010. This is on top of already approved discount reductions and added surcharges since 2005, and will result in significant premium increases for many small businesses at a time when many are struggling to make their payrolls and keep their doors open.

Senate Bill 213 would freeze maximum premium discounts at the level they will be on July 1^st for two years, eliminate an added surcharge approved by the BWC and require the Bureau to conduct a thorough study of the premium rating system to determine the best course of action in the future. SB 213 was also amended in committee yesterday to keep politics out of the process by ensuring that any rebates offered to employees in election years must be approved by the Ohio General Assembly.

“I believe BWC rates must be fair and must adequately cover risk; however, the timing and uncertainty associated with the Bureau’s recent actions to ‘true-up’ rates have caused undue strain on Ohio companies at the worst possible time,” Faber said. “When the state’s unemployment rate is nearing 11 percent, state agencies must be working with – not against – Ohio’s small businesses.”

According to Senator Faber, the Bureau currently enjoys a surplus nearing $4 billion. If passed by the Ohio House, SB 213 would save group-rated companies approximately $130 million over two years – money that could be reinvested in their companies to keep and create jobs – while not impacting the rates paid by non group-rated employers.

“Let’s leave these dollars in the hands of Ohio’s small employers where they will do the most good, while the Bureau develops a sound and solid plan for ensuring workers’ compensation rates are fair for all companies big and small,” Faber said. “I hope the House will join us and get this bill to the Governor as soon as possible.”

SB 213 passed the Senate by a vote of 20-11 with all Senate Republicans supporting the bill.

Defiance, OH —In response to the devastation caused by the January 12th earthquake in Haiti, many charities and nonprofit organizations are seeking monetary donations. Seven Chief Supermarkets – located in Celina, Coldwater, Defiance, Bryan, Paulding, Delphos, and Napoleon – are collecting monetary donations for the American Red Cross. As customers check out, they can add a cash donation to their order for any amount. Donations at all seven stores will be combined for one contribution to the national chapter of the American Red Cross exclusively for Haiti relief. Donations will be collected through the month of February.

The Wauseon Chief Supermarket is a collection site for donated items that will be transported to ISOH/IMPACT of Waterville, Ohio, which will then be shipped to areas of need in Haiti. Wauseon Chief customers can also make cash donations at the register for ISOH/IMPACT.

Annette Hoeffel, Director of Marketing, states “We are glad to offer our customers this opportunity to help with the relief in Haiti. This is a terrible tragedy and every little bit will make a difference. ”

Chief is a family-owned, regional supermarket chain. The company operates twelve stores under the Chief and Rays banners in nine communities in northwest and west central Ohio.

For additional information, contact Annette Hoeffel, Marketing and Advertising Manager at (419) 785-2162 or e-mail: annette.hoeffel@chiefsupermarkets.com

On Thursday January 28, 2010 at 12:19AM the Coldwater Police Department was called to Mercer Health, 800 West Main Street, in regards to a combative patient. The patient was identified as Ashley A. Browe, 31, of 715 Sycamore Street Celina.

Browe was the victim of an assault that occured in Celina and was combative with the EMS as they transported him to Mercer Health from Celina. While at Mercer Health, Browe continued to be combative and out of control. He attempted to bite one of the nurses while continuing to yell and curse at the emergency room staff and law enforcement. He attempted to spit and put his blood on officers as he stated he had a disease that he could transmit to them.

After warnings to desist in his conduct were not obeyed, the police department arrested him for persistent disorderly conduct. After several hours of dealing with Browe he was incarcerated into the Mercer County Jail on a $200,000 bond. The Mercer County Prosecutor was contacted and will be reviewing the case for possible additional charges being filed. Mr. Browe is set to make his appearance in Celina Municipal Court on Friday January 29 at 9:00AM.

United Way of Auglaize County Announces Total of Funds Available for Allocation

2009 was a difficult year for our community. Record unemployment and a terrible economy took its toll on many of our friends and neighbors. The poor economy was especially hard on the United Way of Auglaize County’s 2009 Campaign as we rely mostly on payroll deduction donations to meet the needs of our 20 Partner Agencies. However, despite raising $66,000 less than last year and having much less revenue to stretch The United Way of Auglaize County Board of Directors has some good news for our community.

Due to solid financial management and some creative budgeting from our Board of Directors, the United Way of Auglaize County is excited to announce today that we are in a position to have the total funds available for allocation to our 20 Partner Agencies in 2010 equal what they were in 2009. Last year we allocated $184,989 to our agencies and this year despite our campaign being down 33% we will be allocating $185,000.

This achievement is a source of great pride for our organization as the decisions made to get us to this point were not easy but necessary for us to continue serving the agencies that make our community a great place to live for everyone.

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.

On Wednesday February 3rd, local residents and business owners are invited to an informal get together with the Southwestern Auglaize County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Scott Frey. The meeting will take place at 8:00 am at the New Knoxville Village Administration Building. The Village of New Knoxville is sponsoring the event. This will be an excellent opportunity for attendees to ask questions about the direction of the Chamber of Commerce, and share thoughts with Mr. Frey on the business climate in New Knoxville.

On Wednesday February 10th, local residents and business owners are invited to an informal get together with the Southwestern Auglaize County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Scott Frey. The meeting will take place at 8:00 am at the Minster Village Administration Building. The Village of Minster Community Improvement Corporation is sponsoring the event. This will be an excellent opportunity for attendees to ask questions about the direction of the Chamber of Commerce, and share thoughts with Mr. Frey on the business climate in Minster.

COLUMBUS—State Senator Steve Buehrer (R-Delta) this afternoon was elected by his fellow Republican senators to serve as the Ohio Senate’s Majority Whip for the remainder of the 128^th General Assembly, filling an opening left by the resignation of State Senator Mark Wagoner.

“From his first day in the Senate, Steve’s experience, hard work and extensive knowledge of many policy issues has been a tremendous asset to our caucus and has earned him the respect of his colleagues on both sides of the aisle,” said Senate President Bill Harris. “As Majority Whip, I know he will work in a bipartisan manner to help solve the many challenges facing our state and will continue to be a strong and passionate advocate for the people of Northwest Ohio.”

Before coming to the Senate in 2007, Sen. Buehrer served four terms as the State Representative for the 82nd Ohio House District. He has long championed policy that respects individual freedom, promotes strong family values and encourages development and job growth in Ohio’s communities, sponsoring legislation to streamline business regulations and improve transportation infrastructure. He also successfully passed a bill in 2008 to establish Ohio’s Castle Doctrine and has been a strong proponent of pro-life efforts in the General Assembly.

In addition, Steve has taken an active role in several regional and national legislative organizations. He was recently selected by a bipartisan group of state lawmakers from across the Midwest to chair the 2010 Council of State Governments’ (CSG) Midwestern Legislative Conference, which works to encourage state legislatures in the region to exchange ideas and best practices to help solve common problems. He was also named vice chair of CSG’s national governing board and executive committee.

“I am humbled and honored to be elected by my colleagues to such an important leadership position,” said Buehrer. “I look forward to working hard in the coming months to complete the Senate’s priorities for 2010 and begin addressing the many challenges our state will face in future years.”

COLUMBUS—All of the following can be attributed to State Senator Steve Buehrer (R-Delta) in response to Governor Ted Strickland’s State of the State address yesterday.

“Although the Governor’s themes of jobs, education, energy and the regrowth of Ohio’s economy are concepts we can all agree on, the record of achievement by this administration is sparse.

“The major achievements touted by the Governor today included the Third Frontier, educational attainment and tax reform, all of which were efforts started by and led by past governors and the Republican General Assembly.

“In addition to this sparse record, the Governor announced a litany of new task forces and government programs. Even though well-intended, the Governor’s actions don’t match his words. One example is the Governor’s new found enthusiasm for Ohio agriculture products. Yet, in the past few weeks, the Strickland Administration has switched its state contract for produce at prisons to an out-of-state vendor with no Ohio source requirements.

“This mismatch between words and deeds is one reason Ohio’s unemployment rate is over 10 percent.”

The Auglaize County Council of the American Legion is sponsoring a Veteran’s Benefits Meeting on Wednesday January 27, 2010. The meeting will take place at 7:00 p.m. at the American Legion Post 444 in New Knoxville. (204 N Mill St. New Knoxville, OH 45871)

The featured speakers will include: Mr. Russell Golowin (attorney); Mr. Keith Fledderjohann (Ameriprise Financial): and Mr. Doug Howard, Auglaize County Veteran’s Services Officer.

(The meeting will be rescheduled for Wednesday February 3, 2010 in case of bad weather.)

Blood Drive at Celina Manor February 17

Please take a moment to look at the attachment. We will have a blood drive at Celina Manor on Wednesday, February 17^th from 12:30-4:30. Blood is always needed. Just keep in mind…

Why is your blood needed?

The blood supply needs to be continually replenished. Only 38% of Americans are eligible to donate blood and out of those only 8% actually do. That amounts to only about 3 out of every 100 people.

Your donation makes a difference!

Give me a call today to schedule your appointment!

Mercer County Spelling Bee

The 2009-10 Mercer County Spelling Bee will be held on Monday, February 1, 2010

at 7:00 p.m. at Wright State University-Lake Campus in the James F. Dicke Hall. Twenty-five students from Mercer County will participate in the Spelling Bee. These students represent the school districts of: Coldwater, Ft. Recovery, Marion, Parkway, and St. Henry.

In the event the Spelling Bee is cancelled due to inclement weather, the scheduled

"make-up" date is Tuesday, February 2, 2010 at the same time and location.

Haiti Earthquake Red Cross Update

In just the first week of the Haiti response effort, the American Red Cross already has spent or committed $34 million (approximately 25 percent of what has been pledged or received) as of Thursday, January 21.

· The infrastructure of Haiti is severely damaged-airports are clogged, roads are treacherous, and there is no large seaport available. This is causing bottlenecks and making it very difficult to get aid into the hands of survivors. Despite those problems, aid is starting to slowly make its way to those who need help.

· We want aid to move faster, too. But it’s going to take government and relief agencies working together quickly to establish security and expand and repair, airports, roads and seaports to get the relief supplies moving.

· We know this relief effort will take place in two phases: The short term relief effort is underway now and will continue for many weeks. We are starting to plan for a long term recovery effort that will continue for months, if not years.

· In just the first week of the short term relief operation we’ve committed and spent funds in three basic areas: food and water, relief supplies and logistical and support services.

· 50 percent of what has been committed or spent is being used to bring food and water to earthquake survivors. The American Red Cross is providing more 3 million pre-packaged meals, more than 1 million water purification packets and thousands of jerry cans so people can collect and transport clean drinking water.

· 30 percent of what has been committed or spent so far is purchasing and distributing relief supplies. This includes items such as blanket, tarps, soap, hygiene supplies, kitchen sets and first aid supplies.

· 20 percent of what has been committed or spent is providing the logistical support and other items needed to keep the relief effort running. This includes the purchase of vehicles to deliver relief supplies, warehouse space, gasoline, transportation costs and the deployment of our relief specialists. This category also includes the costs associated with the training and deployment of nearly 70 Creole speaking volunteers to the USNS Comfort.

· The American Red Cross is one part of the international relief operation in Haiti. While many of these items are being distributed by our own workers on the ground, we are also providing supplies, food and logistical items to other Red Cross societies and groups, such as the World Food Program to assist in their efforts.

· This is only the beginning of the American Red Cross relief and recovery effort for Haiti. Over the next several days and weeks, as the international relief effort will grow so will the monetary commitment of the American Red Cross. Right now, it’s important to get relief there as quickly as possible, but also be thoughtful and responsible in how we spend the funds the American people have entrusted to us.

· We want to ensure that we manage our money wisely so we can ensure that long term relief is available as well. We are already looking at how the American Red Cross can help meet longer term needs such as providing reliable shelter, water and sanitation systems.

People in Haiti are still in need of basic items like food, water and medical care. It is frustrating for humanitarian organizations, like the American Red Cross, that also wish aid would arrive faster.

· It is still difficult to get planes caring humanitarian aid into the Port-au-Prince airport. The roads are heavily congested, and travel by road from the Dominican Republic has increased to an 18-hour journey.

· We are working with the U.S. government to discuss how these issues can be alleviated, and we applaud the U.S. Armed Forces, which are on the ground and doing a great job.

· Despite all of the logjams and bottlenecks, supplies are slowly getting through. The pipeline to get resources into Haiti was reduced to a straw following the earthquake; we have graduated to a garden hose, but really need it to become a fire hose.

· So far, more than 100 tons of Red Cross aid has arrived in Haiti. Planes and trucks carrying Red Cross humanitarian assistance are arriving in the region every day.

· Yesterday (Wednesday), the American Red Cross and our partners on the ground were able to provide 2,700 people with basic supplies like tarps, hygiene kits, water purification tablets and blankets.

· As the pipeline to get to the people in Haiti widens, the American Red Cross will provide large tents for an initial 14,500 people and is working around the clock to find and send more.

· The American Red Cross is also sending approximately 3 million pre-packaged meals to Haiti, and will partner with the World Food Program to distribute them to survivors over the weekend.

· Today (Thursday), nearly 70 American Red Cross Creole-speaking volunteers have left Miami to join the USNS Comfort offshore in Haiti tomorrow. Once aboard, they will serve as interpreters for patients receiving medical care from the U.S. military.

· The American Red Cross is also coordinating shipments of blood and blood products to Haiti at the request of the Pan American Health Organization.

The American Red Cross is in Haiti as a part of the broader and coordinated Red Cross and Red Crescent network.

· We all have our roles; we all have our expertise, and we’re all working together. That is a very powerful engine for relief.

· For example, Red Cross responders from seven countries are treating injuries and performing surgery at hospitals and medical centers throughout the capital city.

· Red Cross teams from Latin America and Asia, trained in urban search and rescue, are supporting local authorities.

· Others are focused on purifying the water supply available in the country and expect to deliver clean drinking water to 200,000 people (17 settlements) each day by truck.

· Local Haitian Red Cross volunteers are providing emotional support for traumatized survivors and providing first aid support.

· The ICRC family links Web site (www.icrc.org/familylinks), designed to help reconnect separated families, has received 23,900 registrations since the earthquake. Yesterday (Wednesday), the Red Cross helped more than 340 people in Haiti make international phone calls to their families to say they are safe and well as well as register an additional 178 on the site.

This is an enormous relief operation now, but we also know it will be a massive long-term recovery effort and the Red Cross will be there throughout.

· It is important to note that because Port-au-Prince is so central to the economy and governance of Haiti that this disaster not only affected people living in the earthquake zone (an estimated 3 million), but the entire population of Haiti (an estimated 9 million).

· This is already the largest single-country personnel deployment in global Red Cross history. The number of emergency response teams in or en route to Haiti equals those that responded to the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami – an emergency that spanned 14 countries.

· It is clear that what took minutes to destroy will take many years and the collective support from governments and relief agencies across the world to help mend. The American Red Cross is working in close coordination with other responding organizations and will undoubtedly collaborate on joint, long-term recovery projects.

· Terrible times like these bring out the best in people, and we are grateful for the support being given to the American Red Cross. This generosity will help thousands of survivors cope with and recover from their losses.

· People can donate in support of the relief effort in Haiti at www.redcross.org or by calling 1-800-REDCROSS. Mobile donors can text “Haiti” to 90999 to make a $10 contribution.

· A $10 donation made through mobile giving can provide a family with two water cans to store clean drinking water, a blanket appropriate to the climate or other supplies to give people the ability to cook for their families.

Locally, the American Red Cross Mercer County Chapter is able to accept donations at their office at 909 E. Wayne St. Suite 124, Celina. Monday through Thursday, 9AM-4PM. For individuals interested in donating goods or supplies, please contact International Services of Hope at 419/878-8584.

Fort Recovery Board of Education Meeting January 12, 2010

Organizational Meeting

Meeting called to order by Pres. Pro Tem Jack Staugler.

Agenda Actions

1 & 2. Results of Election of Officers: Board President -Jack Staugler, Vice-President - Dave Hull.

3. Bonds for the President of BOE & Superintendent were set in the amount of $50,000.00 each.

4. The Treasurer’s bond was set in the amount of $100,000.00.

5. Set time & day of 2010 regular board meetings - 2nd Tuesday of month - 7:30 PM - HS Board Room, with exception of Nov. board meeting which will be held on Nov. 16, 2010.

6. Appointed Ginny Fortkamp as the 2010 OSBA Legislative Liaison and Dan Kahlig as the Alternate Legislative Liaison.

7. Appointed Dave Hull as the 2010 Student Achievement Liaison.

8. Authorized the Treasurer to pay invoices soon after they are received and to invest available funds.

9. Established a Board of Education Service Fund not to exceed $5,000.00.

10. Authorized the Superintendent to attend such meetings as he deems necessary.

11. Granted the Superintendent permission to employ casual labor for work in the school district during the school year and during the summer.

12. Approved Kurt Wendel as the public records officer for

Board members Dan Kahlig and Ginny Fortkamp.

13. Adjourned organizational meeting to go into regular board meeting.

Regular Board Meeting

Staff Reports

Brian Patch reported to the Board the details of the upcoming 8^th grade Washington D.C. trip.

John Jutte, Technology Coordinator, reviewed the technology budget for the coming year.

***

Administrative Reports

Mrs. Koch:

* Distributed a handout and updated the Board on the 5 Year Forecast, the amounts and rates as determined by the Budget Commission, and the review of fund balance to revenue & expenditures.

Mrs. Vaughn:

* Explained the new ODE Resident Educator Program for entry year requirements for new teachers. This is part of the ODE licensure program. A handout was also distributed.

Mr. Triplett:

* Discussed the winter Olympic Games that will be held in the Middle School in February.

* Informed the Board that 31 – 7^th graders have had their writings published. That is 47% of the class.

Mr. Hobbs:

* Updated the board on the semester exam schedule and the score boards.

Mr. Niekamp:

* Commended the Board members for their continued work on the behalf of the students of Fort Recovery. January is Board of Education recognition month.

* Andy Smith, Superintendent of Mercer County Schools, gave a presentation on procedures for a superintendent search.

* Reviewed the school committee list.

* Discussed the date of the next Board work session.

* Distributed a draft calendar for the 2010-11 school year.

* Updated the Board on the recent OSFC assessment done at the high school.

* Reminded Board members of the upcoming Aug./Mercer County Boards’ workshop and banquet.

Consent Agenda

1. Approved minutes of prior December meeting.

2. Approved the monthly financial reports for December 2009 and payment of bills as presented.

3. Approved advance draw on 2010 Mercer & Darke County tax collections.

4. Approved membership renewal with OSBA.

5. Approved resolution accepting the amended amounts and rates as determined by the budget commission and authorizing the necessary tax levies and certifying them to the county auditor.

6. Accepted and thanked The Fort Recovery Industries for their donations to the Elementary, MS, and HS to be used for mini grants.

7. Accepted an anonymous donation for the FCCLA & HS Student Council Adopt a Family Christmas Project.

8. Accepted and thanked Tom & Mary Pat Zitter for their donations to the Elem., MS, and HS Funds, the Show Choir Boosters, Band Boosters, Athletic Boosters, and the Academic Booster Club.

9. Accepted and thanked the Brittani Young Memorial Fund for a donation to the MS & HS libraries. .

10. Approved the contract with the Mercer County Health Department for services of the Public Health Nurses.

11. Approved the 8^th grade Washington D.C. trip from April 5, 2010 through April 10, 2010.

12. Employed Michelle Stammen as JH Asst. Track Coach.

***

Agenda Action Items

1. Approved the Permanent Appropriations for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2010.

2. Approved the calendar for the 2010-11 school year pending approval of ODE.

3. Board work session set for February 9, 2010, at 6:00 PM before the regular Board meeting.

4. Executive session.

5. Employed Mindy Bubp as HS Asst. Track Coach.

6. Approved 2010-11 & 2011-12 Classified Salary Schedules.

7. Meeting adjourned.

Tri Star Career Compact is hosting its annual Open House on Monday evening, February 1^st, from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. Students, parents and the public are invited to see the great career technical programs being offered. All classrooms will be open with teachers available, including the new Vet Tech Program being offered in Coldwater. The Engineering Technology/CAD program will be open in St. Marys only. Visit one or all locations in: Celina, Montezuma, Coldwater and St. Marys. College representatives will be available at some locations to discuss financial aid, how you can earn free college credits, and more. For details, talk to a high school guidance counselor or call the Tri Star office at 419-586-7060. Tri Star provides career technical education to junior and senior students from Celina, Coldwater, Fort Recovery, Marion Local, Minster, New Bremen, New Knoxville, St. Henry and St. Marys schools.

Tri Star’s junior Graphic Communications class is pictured holding one of the OPEN HOUSE signs that will be posted outside each location. Students in the class include from Celina –Jordan Ruwoldt and Nate Wiles; from Marion Local – Hilary Adkins; from New Knoxville – Tiffany Bower and Shelbie Egbert; and from St. Marys – Tiffany Black, Chandler Castro, Jenna Cook, Brooke Lingerich and Dillon Slaven.

Now is the time to make those nominations for our annual chamber awards. These awards are given out during our Annual Banquet on Thursday, Feb. 25th.

They are 2009 Community Business of the Year, 2009 Citizen of the Year,
Hunanitarian & Achievement Awards. Applications are available online at www.celinamercer.com.

Why not honor someone/group/organization/business for their hard work and effort! Call today for your Chamber banquet tickets.

Celina’s annual event scheduled for Sunday, January 31, 2010 will take place at the Java Nation Coffee Bar 110 South Main Street (State Route 127) Celina, Ohio. The location is downtown, next door to the Potter House on the East side of the street.

Again this year area young women & their moms can buy or sell gently used gowns from proms, wedding parties, Homecoming, or other special occasions. Anyone is welcome to clear their closets of past dresses, shoes, evening bags, jewelry & make money in the process. Sellers set their own prices for the dresses & accessories.

Gowns & other items may be dropped off between 11 & 12:30 AM on Sunday, the day of the event. For $7.00 per dress, $3.00 for shoes or other accessories, gowns & items will be displayed for sale.

Those interested in making a purchase may shop between 1 and 4 PM. There will be a wide selection of recent prom dresses available at reasonable prices. Purchases are cash only.

From 4 to 4:30 PM, the proceeds from items sold will be available, and items not sold can be picked up. Any money or items left will be donated to charity.

Proceeds go to the Celina High School After-Prom. The fundraiser is sponsored by the parents of the Junior Class. Mothers & daughters are encouraged to attend together. The new Java Nation will be serving coffee drinks & dessert for the event.

I want to personally thank you for the contributions you’ve made to broadband expansion and use planning in Mercer County. The plans and resources you help to provide will provide meaningful advances in education, economic development, access to healthcare and government services, and a myriad of benefits for those who need better access to fast, reliable broadband.

As you may have heard, Sage Cutler, Southwestern Regional State Operations Manager is no longer with Connect Ohio. We are grateful for the groundwork laid by Sage and wish him well in his new undertakings. Connect Ohio understands the immense importance of continuity in local planning, and has plans to ensure that there is no interruption in the forward momentum that your teams already have.

The next meeting, which is scheduled for Thursday, January 28, 2010, will be conducted as scheduled at 10:30 am to 12:00 pm. A follow up email with the location will be sent soon. We will discuss Mercer County’s last-mile availability project, as well as the opportunities to increase awareness and education via broadband connections. Other community priorities for Mercer County will be discussed and put into project form. There will also be a discussion on opportunities for application to the grant monies available through the ARRA funding.

Over the next few weeks, we will transition a new State Operations Manager to your region who will help to continue the work already under way in your community. We expect to have the transition to an experienced Connect Ohio Field Director in place by January 21^st. During this time of transition, I will be conducting the meetings and maintaining the projects. All scheduled meetings and all project plans will continue as planned, without interruption.

Again, I want to relay my gratitude to community leaders such as yourself who give of their time and talent to make a better community. I am confident that the opportunities ahead of us will be better realized for your participation, and we are anxious to help with the development of plans, projects, and the supply of resources that will help to bring your vision to life. Thank you for your continuing service. I look forward to meeting you the 28^th.

“The War Nobody Knows: The Rest of the Story” will be the topic at the Western Ohio Civil War Roundtable in a meeting at Wright State University Lake Campus in Celina - Thursday, January 28 at 7:15 PM room 227 Dwyer Hall. The guest speaker is James Bissland, Associate Professor Emeritus from Bowling Green State University. Bissland is the author of one of the greatest books ever written that details the contributions of Ohioans toward the successful conduct of the American Civil War. His visit is underwritten by a grant from the Ohio Humanities Council. Participation is free and open to the public.

Professor Bissland’s 2007 book Blood, Tears, and Glory: How Ohioans Won the Civil War (Orange Frazer Press) tells the dramatic story of how men and women from Ohio played the pivotal role in winning the war. The book chronicles how the war shaped modern America, making it the most important event in our history since the Declaration of Independence. In a visit to the Roundtable in 2009 Bissland revealed how Ohioans led the Union to victory.

During his upcoming visit, Professor Bissland will reveal “the rest of the story” as he picks up the story of Ohio’s Civil War heroes after the war, and follows them further along history’s trail. Bissland was recently selected by Ohio Governor Ted Strickland as a participant in the governor’s advisory committee for Ohio’s observance of the Civil War’s sesquicentennial.

In the past, Bissland has worked as an Assistant to state editor, Burlington (VT) Free Press; a reporter at the Providence Journal Bulletin; a public information officer and publications director at Rhode Island College; director of public information, Old Sturbridge Village; consultant to various educational institutions; an instructor at the University of Iowa; and an assistant professor, associate professor, department chair and interim director of school at Bowling Green State University journalism program.

James Bissland is a master story teller, and his is an interesting look at some familiar figures. This program should find a wide audience among Civil War buffs.

CELINA, OH – The Wright State University – Lake Campus Western Ohio Education Foundation (WOEF) is pleased to offer a scholarship in memory of Janet Orick for the 2010-2011 academic year. The $1,000 scholarship is available to any entering, current, returning or transfer student who is pursuing a nursing or healthcare degree. A recipient will be selected based on their situational needs and academic record.

Roy Orick, husband of the late Janet Orick, is shown donating the scholarship check to Lake Campus Dean Jim Sayer. Alongside them is Tom Saddler, left, Vice President of the Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) Board and Tom Knapke, right, WOEF Development Officer.

The 2010-2011 scholarship application material is now available, please go to www.wright.edu/lake/prospective/scholarships.html or call Sandy Gilbert, WOEF Scholarship Coordinator, at 419-586-0376.

COLUMBUS— State Representative Jim Zehringer (R- Ft. Recovery) yesterday was appointed ranking member to the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee for the remainder of the 128^th General Assembly. Updated committee assignments were announced by Ohio House Speaker Armond Budish (D- Beachwood) and House Minority Leader William G. Batchelder (R- Medina).

“I am so excited to have the opportunity to take a leading role in the development of agriculture and natural resources legislation in Ohio,” said Zehringer. “It is truly an honor to serve in this capacity, and I look forward to continuing our efforts to protect Ohio’s vital natural resources, as well as our farmers and farmland.”

In addition, Zehringer currently serves on the House Financial Institutions, Real Estate, and Securities; Transportation and Infrastructure; Commerce and Labor; and Consumer Affairs and Economic Protection committees.

Zehringer is serving his second term in the Legislature after being appointed to the seat in early 2007.

The Celina Police Department has identified two suspects in the arson fire that occurred at the former Grand Slam facility at the corner of Grand Lake Rd. and Wayne St. Celina Fire Department crews responded to the report of the fire late Monday afternoon. Upon investigation of the scene, a point of entry was found at a window on the northeast corner of the building. Witnesses at the scene indicated that three subjects were seen running from the north side of the building. Other witness statements led officers north towards Meyers Road. At that point the Celina Police Department Canine officer, Nick and his handler Ptl. Dan Harting were called in. The Canine Officer was able to track the suspects from the scene to the Meadowview Apartment Complex, approximately 3 blocks north of where the fire occurred.

While canvassing the complex suspects were located and identified. Both physical evidence and witness statements connected them to the scene of the fire. The subjects involved are all juveniles, ages 8 through 15. The report has been turned over to the Mercer County Prosecutors Office for review.

While suspects have been identified the Celina Police Department would still encourage anyone that witnessed suspicious activity in the area of Grand Slam on Monday afternoon to contact them at 419-586-2345.

A complaint of a golf cart being driven on the street last Saturday evening led Celina officers to the recovery of golf car that had been reported stolen from Kozy Kampground on December 31, 2009. Officers located the golf cart on W. Market Street with three occupants. A serial number check confirmed that it was the golf cart reported stolen to the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office. The subjects found with the golf cart were taken into custody at that time. Contact was made with the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office and deputies assisted in interviewing the suspects. No other property taken at the time of the golf cart theft was recovered that evening. Both the golf cart and the suspects were turned over to MCSO deputies. County authorities will be continuing their investigation into the incident

The Airport Authority Board will be having a special meeting January 25, 2010 at 6:00pm to discuss airport operations, finances and personnel issues regarding the 50% funding cut from the County.

The Southwestern Auglaize County Chamber of Commerce is proud to kick off a new chamber/community event, the “Business Open House” series. This first business open house will be hosted by: Paul Chiropractic and Health Center and sponsored by: your Southwestern Auglaize County Chamber of Commerce.

The event will take place on Thursday, January 28th from 5:00 - 7:00 pm. at Paul Chiropractic and Health Center 712 E. Monroe St, New Bremen, OH 45869

You can learn about their new Infra-Red Sauna system and all the chiropractic, nutritional and wellness benefits and services offered at Paul Chiropractic and Health Center.

Enjoy snacks, cold beverages and door prizes! This event is free and open to the public.

Thursday, January 28th from 5:00 - 7:00 pm. at Paul Chiropractic and Health Center 712 E. Monroe St, New Bremen, OH 45869

You can learn about their new Infra-Red Sauna system and all the chiropractic, nutritional and wellness benefits and services offered at Paul Chiropractic and Health Center.

Three area Lions Clubs donated $2000 toward the annual Parkway eighth grade trip to Washington D.C.trip. Sixty-eight students plus chaperons will make the trip April 11-17.

The majority of the contribution was raised by the Annual Fish Fry held at the Rockford Communlity Building. Help was provided by members of the Rockford. Willshire, and Mendon Lions clubs.

On hand for the check presentation were Kevin Krall, president of the Willshire Lions Club; Randy Haebegger, president of the Rockford Lions Club; Ivan Knapp, president of the Mendon Lions Club (not shown) and Rockford Middle School principal, Stephen Baumgartner, accepting the check.

Three of Parkway’s FBLA officers reported on their recent trip to the National Convention in Florida to the Rockford Chamber of Commerce on January 14. The Chamber had help provide funds for the trip. Those given the report were Rachel Roebuck, local chapter president; Kaitlin Roehm, vice president; and Taylor Lautzenheiser, secretary.

The girls attended a variety of workshops including those on careers and college (Fast Track to College), fund raising and working together, and making life decisions.

They also shared samples of cookies they are selling at local basketball games to raise money. They explained that the cookies are baked on a special portable oven that their teacher has obtained.

Members of the local FBLA have been working with the Rockford Chamber on a variety of projects

Can't get to Haiti to physically help but I figured we could offer our prayers. Please spread this information. We are having a PRAYER SERVICE for the victims and survivors of Haiti on Tuesday January 19th at 7:30 pm at St Rose Catholic Church in St Rose Ohio I hope we can fill the church

The American Red Cross today is releasing an additional $9 million for earthquake relief in Haiti, bringing our commitment to $10 million.

The 7.3 magnitude earthquake that struck Haiti near the capital of Port au Prince caused catastrophic damage and significant loss of life, with estimates that up to 3 million people may be affected.

Our partners within the global Red Cross network are also responding to the urgent humanitarian need.

The American Red Cross has seen an outpouring of support and concern from the public.

The American Red Cross has received more than $3 million as of 9 a.m. EST – through a third party mobile fundraising effort to support our relief efforts in Haiti.

The Red Cross provided blood and blood products to the US Naval Air Station in Jacksonville, Florida. That blood, requested by the US Navy, was shipped by the US Navy to their facilities at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba in support of Haitian evacuees and patients.

Locally, the Mercer County Chapter of the American Red Cross is able to accept donations at their office at 909 E Wayne St. Suite 124, Celina, Ohio 45822 Monday through Thursday, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM. For individuals interested in donating goods or supplies, please contact International Services of Hope at 419/878-8584.
--
Deb Hemmelgarn
Executive Director
Mercer County Chapter
American Red Cross

office 419-586-2201
cell 419-852-4624
redcross.org
mercercountyredcross.org

COLUMBUS, OH – U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) today received a briefing from The Adjutant General of Ohio, Major General Gregory Wayt of the Ohio National Guard regarding ongoing relief efforts being performed by the men and women of the 179^th Airlift Wing of the Mansfield Air National Guard Base. In response, Brown issued the following statement:

“My heart goes out to the people of Haiti in the wake of this devastation. My thoughts and prayers are with them as they grieve and work to recover and overcome this tragedy.

“Ohioans have risen to the call of duty in this emergency. The Ohio National Guard responded immediately to the U.S. Southern Command’s order for Haitian relief efforts, and planes from Mansfield were the first on the ground in Haiti. From the men and women of the 179^th , the service members at Wright Patterson, and Ohio’s other disaster relief personnel being deployed, you are true heroes.”

Brown has been working with his Senate colleagues to make sure that relief efforts get the resources they need and are not unnecessarily hampered by red tape. Brown joined 22 of his Senate colleagues to call for fast track increased funding for the Haitian relief effort as soon as possible.

“Robust and immediate U.S. assistance to Haiti in the wake of this catastrophe is vital to support stability in that fragile country, and is in our own national security interest” the Senators wrote in the letter.

Brown has previously worked with Drs. Paul Farmer and Jim Yong Kim, co-founders of international health organization Partners in Health (PIH), to address the devastation caused health disparities and poverty in Haiti. PIH and other international aid groups are working closely with emergency workers like those based in Ohio to save lives and provide relief for the people of Haiti as they recover from the deadliest natural disaster in the nation’s history.

For more information about the relief efforts or for those who have loved ones in Haiti, the U.S. State Department has emergency resources available HERE.

The United Way of Auglaize County will be holding a Free Tax Filing Clinic in Waynesfield on Saturday February 13 2010 at Waynesfield Local Schools. Filings will be done by appointment only and will be done from 10:00 am to 3:00. Please call the United Way of Auglaize County office at (419) 739-7717 to schedule an appointment.

The United Way of Auglaize County is again partnering with the Ohio Benefit Bank to offer the clinics to qualifying families.

The Benefit Bank is an internet-based, counselor-assisted service that helps low- and moderate-income individuals and families file for tax credits and benefits for which they are eligible. And since it is a free service, people who file their taxes with The United Way of Auglaize County are able to keep more money in their pockets.

The tax clinics are offered to anyone whose household income is less than $57,000.

Randy Fisher

Executive Director

United Way of Auglaize County

Phone: (419) 739-7717

Mobile: (419) 235-5028

Learn more about your local United Way: www.auglaizeunitedway.org

The Mercer County Bar Association is pleased to announce that it will once again be sponsoring its annual Law Day Essay Contest. The competition is open to all 7th, 8th, and 9th grade students in Mercer County. The Mercer County Bar Association is providing prizes to the winners as follows: $100.00 for first place, $75.00 for second place, and $50.00 for third place. In addition, the winners and their sponsoring teachers will be invited to a luncheon and courthouse awards presentation with members of the local bar association.

The Law Day theme is chosen each year by the ABA. The theme for Law Day 2010 is "Law in the 21st Century: Enduring Traditions, Emerging Challenges." Suggested essay topics include:

1. What does the "right to privacy" mean in light of the Internet, social networking sites, and the easy access to personal information that they provide? Does your opinion change depending on whether it is a private entity or the government collecting the information? \

2. In these days of fiscal crisis, who should be responsible for providing and paying for medical coverage in this country? Why should they bear that responsibility?

3. When addressing the threat of terrorism, what rights should the government have to search you and your luggage when you are at an airport preparing to get on an airplane?

Essays should be post marked by April 15, 2010 and mailed to the Mercer County Prosecutor's Office at 119 North Walnut Street, Celina, OH 45822. Participants should provide contact information so that the winners can be notified. </

III. Set Agenda

IV. Business & Records

VI. Superintendent’s Section

VII. Board Member Section/Discussion Only

Mercer County Pheasants Forever #745 January 4, 2010 Minutes

Respectfully Submitted: Brian Miller

JAMES (JIM) A. WIECHART, P.E., P.S.

Mercer County Engineer

REPORT FOR 2009

REVENUE/EXPENDITURES

2009 ROAD RESURFACING

Mercer County 1 ½”

Mercer County ¾” x ¾”

Note: Other resurfacing was done through roadway reconstruction projects listed elsewhere within this report.

11 ROADS RECEIVED CHIP AND SEAL SURFACES

ROAD NAME

FULL SEAL

Mercer Darke County Line

Township Line

Wabash

Skeels

Frahm Pike

TOTAL FULL SEAL

BRIDGE RECONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

2009 BRIDGE & LARGE CULVERT REPLACEMENT PROGRAM

COST

GIB C61-0.39C

HOP C170-9.61C

REC C70-2.78C

HOP C170-10.85C

REC C70-3.24C

HOP C170-11.77C

UNI C210-5.24C

GRA C60-2.30C

UNI C210-6.35C

TWP/BRIDGE

GRA C60-2.46B