FEBRUARY, 2012 CALENDAR

 

 

        NEWS UPDATE FOR FEBRUARY 6, 2012

 

Midwest Electric members donate $13,649 to area charities

 

Members of Midwest Electric recently donated $13,649 to 14 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 $687,042 to 499 area projects.

The recent Fund recipients include the following:

• Chickasaw Community Mutual Fire Company, $2,000 to buy portable folding water tanks to increase firefighting capacity.

• New Knoxville Washington Township Fire Department, $2,000 to replace outdated air pack bottles.

• Coleman Professional Services, Lima, $1,750 to buy a vital signs monitor for psychiatric patients.

• 4-H Exchange Club, Van Wert, $1,000 to fund repairs to the carousel holiday light show display.

• Lima Symphony Orchestra Association, $1,000 to support music education programs for youth.

• Auglaize County Public District Library System, $1,000 to buy iPads.

• Grand Lake Hospice, $1,000 to outfit a media center in the new "Comfort Suite" for patients’ families.

• Meyer House Foundation, $1,000 towards the construction of a new home for an impoverished family in Spencerville.

• Van Wert County Fair, $500 to support entertainment in the Gospel tent.

• Niswonger Performing Arts Center, $500 to help the lecture series.

• New Bremen Friends of the Library, $500 towards summer children programming.

• ARC of Allen County, $500 for new doors and wheelchair ramps.

• Ft. Recovery Elementary - Multiple Disabilities, $499 to buy an iPad for educational use.

• Van Wert Area Boychoir, $400 to buy concert apparel, music, and other support.

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.

 

Matt Berry

 

AG SOLUTIONS MEETING FEBRUARY 6

Please note that our regular monthly meeting is this Monday February 6, 2012.

We have a packed agenda: See the attached invite which was sent via USPS.

· Glen Arnold and Terry Mescher will advise us about simple, practical, low cost solutions.

· John Kaiser will discuss a meeting date to discuss new manure rules.

· We’ll receive updates on all the solutions we’re pursuing.

Announcements:

· Please review the mailed invite which invites everyone to hear Hinda Mitchell, a well known farm advocate. Hinda is being sponsored by the Marion Local Ag Ed Boosters and will be speaking on Tuesday Feb 7 at the Legion Hall in Maria Stein.

· Also reserve Monday March 19 to attend a Manure Workshop. Details will be forthcoming.

· Ag Solutions wants to extend sincere congratulations to Milt Miller who was selected to be the Manager of the Lake Restoration Commission. Milt has been extremely supportive of our organization and brings a ton of energy and passion to everything he does for the lake.

· An Ag Solutions member asked me to pass on that he has heard that like GLSM, the Lake Erie watershed will be officially designated as “distressed” within a month or so. We can discuss the local impact of this development Monday evening

Hope to see you all at the meeting. Come, learn, and share your thoughts.

 

I-POD STOLE AT CELINA HIGH SCHOOL

 

 

The Celina Police Department is pursuing charges against three local juveniles in connection with the theft of I-Pods from local schools.  The Celina Police Department received a complaint from Julia Marie Goetz, of her I-Pod being stolen from Celina Senior High School on Friday, January 20, 2012.  Information obtained during a separate incident led to the development of a suspect in that I-Pod theft.  Follow-up investigation at the Celina home of the suspect resulted in officers recovering an I-Pod that had been stolen from the Convoy area, and an accessory cover from the I-Pod that had been stolen from Celina Senior High School.  Eventually, the Goetz I-Pod was tracked down and located at Game Stop in Celina.  It has also been recovered. 

A 15-year old Celina female suspect is facing a misdemeanor theft charge.  Two male juveniles from Celina, ages 15 and 17 are each facing a misdemeanor charge of receiving stolen property.  A fourth student in the Convoy school system is facing similar local charges in Van Wert County.  The offenses all involve activity that took place on school property and it is likely that the juveniles involved will also face disciplinary action from the school system.

 

CELINA MAN CHARGED WITH THEFT AT SHINN BROTHERS

 

 

Formal charges have been filed against a Celina man, Grant L. Sullivan,  who in connection with the theft of construction supplies from Shinn Brothers Construction on Summit St.  The construction company filed a theft report on Wednesday, January 04, 2012, after discovering that a large number of I-beams were missing from their storage lot.  The beams are used for constructing seawalls. 

Officers located the I-beams at III-Sons Wrecking north of Celina.  During the course of the investigation several steel grates were also located at Graveyard II Auto Wrecking.  It was later confirmed that the grates had had also been stolen from Shinn Brothers.  The suspect was identified through records kept by the scrap yards.  He was located on Wednesday, January 11, 2011.  At the time he was located he was in possession of dozens of rebar sections.  That rebar and the vehicle Sullivan was driving were impounded.  Sullivan was questioned and released at that time.  The rebar was eventually identified as also being stolen from Shinn Brothers Construction. 

Charges were pursued against Sullivan and a warrant was issued today, Wednesday, February 01, 2012.  Sullivan was located and taken into custody shortly after the warrant was issued.  He is currently being held in the Mercer County Detention Center on a fifth degree felony charge of Theft. 

 

 

Congressional vote is crucial to safety of roads and bridges

 

A vote in the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee on Thursday could cost Ohio counties more than $40 million, according to Fredrick B. Pausch, County Engineers Association of Ohio (CEAO) executive director.  This important committee has Ohio Representatives Bob Gibbs and Jean Schmidt which are members of the panel.

 

The Congressional committee is scheduled to vote on whether or not to allow bigger trucks, up to 97,000 pounds for single-trailer trucks and over 100,000 pounds for double- and triple-trailer trucks on American roads.

 

“This is an all-out assault on the current weight and length limits that help protect the safety of all drivers, and our roads and bridges,” said Pausch. “This proposed federal legislation poses many problems for Ohio’s counties.”

 

“All trips begin and end on Local Roads,” said Pausch. “Large trucks accelerate the deterioration of the nation’s highways, roads and bridges. They will put further pressure on funding sources to maintain and repair these roadways. As income from the gas tax continues to decline, counties are already having difficulty keeping up with the needed repair.”

 

Twenty-two percent of the nearly 26,000 bridges in the county road system are structurally deficient or functionally obsolete.

 

“We are at a critical juncture in planning our future structural needs,” said Pausch. “Currently, there is not enough money to meet the severe needs of our highway system. How can we take on a new burden due to greater truck weights and sizes?”

 

The last increase in federal highway gas tax was in 1993. The cost to repair and maintain roads and bridges under current bridge-load rating conditions is greater than funds from past authorization bills.

 

Ohio’s county engineers have spent the last four years load rating bridges that span 20 feet or more, in accordance with an agreement with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT). More than 81% of Ohio’s county bridges have already been load rated.

 

According to Pausch, if the weight limits are increased, the load ratings for county bridges will have to be recalculated. Bridge structure load ratings are complex and costly to be completed.  This could cost counties an average of $1540 per bridge and have a total fiscal impact of $40 million roughly.

 

“If this legislation is adopted,” said Pausch, “many more local bridges may have to be posted for a load-limit reduction around Ohio. The CEAO is opposed to any additional increase in the size and weights of trucks.”

 

 

Mercer Health Begins Self Directed Lab Testing Program

 

                The Mercer Health Laboratory announced today that they will begin offering “Self Directed Lab Testing” beginning February 4th in the Laboratory Department at Mercer County Community Hospital, 800 West Main Street, Coldwater.

            Donna Kueterman, Director of Laboratory Services at Mercer Health, states, “Our Self Directed Lab Testing allows a person to request certain tests to be performed in our Laboratory without a doctor’s order. There is a defined list of available tests. We will provide this service to anyone interested on the first and third Saturday of each month from 7 to 11 AM. Those interested should enter at the Outpatient Entrance on the east side of the hospital.”

            Kueterman says, “Any person, 18 years of age or older, can request testing for themselves. Parents or legal guardians may request and sign the consent form for anybody under 18. Since most insurance companies only cover tests that are requested by a doctor or other healthcare provider, payment will be expected prior to collection.”

            Although there is no appointment required, there is a form that must be completed before any blood is drawn. Kueterman explains, “We have consent forms available at the hospital or those interested can download the form from our website (www.mercer-health.com and go to “For Patients” then click on “Self Directed Lab Testing”). Test results will be mailed to the participant’s address within 2 weeks. We encourage that the results be shared with the family healthcare provider, but we will not send reports to physicians.”

            There are 13 different types of blood test that can be ordered. There is a different charge for each test. Included are: Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, Basic Metabolic Panel, Liver Panel, Kidney Panel, Fasting Lipid Panel, Hemoglobin A1c, Blood Type (ABO/Rh), Thyroid Profile, Cholesterol, Glucose, Potassium, Complete Blood Count (CBC), and PSA Testing for Prostate Cancer.

            Persons wanting more information about what each of these tests examine can go to the Mercer Health website or call 419-678-5122.

 

 

Ohio Law prohibits signs on trees and poles.

 

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart has issued a reminder that the Ohio Revised Code prohibits the erection of signs or affixing signs, posters or advertisement to any tree or utility pole within the right-of-way of any public highway.

 

            Political candidates, campaign workers and supporters of issues appearing on the ballot are reminded that these signs are subject to removal.

 

OFF STAGE PRODUCTIONS

 

Van Wert, OH- Off Stage Productions, an amateur community theatre company
providing quality and affordable dinner theatre, kicks off another exciting season with its first show- a comedy “Ripe Conditions” written by Claudia Allen and directed by Michelle Klutka .  The show will open on Friday, April 20, 2012 for 5 performances over two weekends.

OPEN AUDITIONS will be held at Dave’s Quality Cleaners, 142 E. Main Street, Van Wert on SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19 and MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20 at 7 PM. The cast consists of 2 men and 1 woman. Call 419-238-4466 for more information. No experience necessary. Prepare to join the group and have the time of your life while entertaining patrons in a relaxing and comfortable setting!

Set in rural Michigan, Ripe Conditions is about Lester and Buster, a pair of bumbling brothers, and Ann, the long-lost love of their lives, who eloped with their kid brother years ago only to return to their shambling farm as an attractive and eligible widow. Buster, who bathes once a month, whether he needs it or not, keeps the farm going with a cash crop that is smokable but not exactly legal. Lester, nursing his illnesses and complaining, hasn't been the same since Buster shot him in the leg years ago in a dispute over their mutual love, Ann. Then, in order to gain more sympathy, Lester shot himself several more times! Old feelings are reignited in the brawling brothers, while the radio reports "ripe conditions" for a tornado which hits as they are making overtures to Ann with their own brand of country-boy charm.

Stay tuned for forthcoming announcements indicating show times and reservation information of the five shows held at the Senior Center on Fox Road, Van Wert, OH.
Visit our website www.ofstage theatre.com for more information.

 

 ‘Holiday Mail & Gifts for Heroes season is wrapped up’

 

February 3, 2012 — Spreading holiday cheer to troops, veterans and their families has become a widely embraced tradition across the United States and in our own communities.

Over the past five years, the Holiday Mail for Heroes program has collected millions of holiday cards from individuals, schools, churches and other community groups. This year, the Red Cross of Mercer County again witnessed Americans’ enthusiasm for the program to show their support to our local military members by signing or creating handmade cards and donating needed items to be sent to those serving.

Locally, several businesses, schools and community groups came together to create cards and collect items that went out to service members, their families and veterans all over the world. 

Ricky Woods, a local veteran, helped distribute holiday mail to approximately 20 local sites, ranging from veterans homes and nursing homes to homes of current military members. As someone who served in the U.S. Navy, Woods understands the importance of sending holiday wishes. “Remembering the military members, veterans and their families is very important but especially over the Christmas holiday” Woods stated. “It lets them know we are thinking of them and that they are not forgotten for what they are doing and what they did for all of us”.

The Red Cross would like to thank Town & Country Chiropractic, Coldwell Banker, Coldwater VFW Ladies Auxiliary, Operation Freedom Support and Cooper Farms for their support and participation with the Holiday Mail and Gifts for Heroes. Their financial support, donations and generosity were greatly appreciated.

Over 100 boxes of cards, snacks, personal hygiene products and other items were shipped to local military persons who are currently stationed across our country or overseas whose addresses had been provided by their families.  Because of a delay in recent deployments, the majority of the boxes were just shipped the beginning of February. Even though the boxes carry Christmas wishes, Happy New Year notes and Holiday snacks, our local volunteers agreed to still send them knowing that the service members would still enjoy them!

Many students also got into the act this year. Students from St Henry Elementary and the Red Cross Girls Club in St Henry made cards and collected items to be sent to deployed service members who reside in Mercer County.

 

Sandy Stammen, principal of St Henry Elementary School states “I was excited about the Holiday Gift for Heroes program because we have some families in our district as well as staff members who have a family member(s) serving in the military.  The program was a great way for us to help support the troops for everything they're doing for us.  The students took pride in knowing that what they were bringing in would benefit our local service men and women. “

Kirsten Fennig, a local Red Cross volunteer from Celina also enlisted the help of Celina schools. The students learned about the spirit of giving and of the sacrifices many local people have made to defend our freedoms as Americans. Letters of praise, gratitude and wishes for a Merry Christmas were expressed as well as drawings and updates on recent local events from the students.  The students own handmade creations, will no doubt bring a smile to someone’s face even after the season.

The American Red Cross links members of the U.S. Armed Forces with their families during a crisis.  Twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year, the Red Cross quickly sends emergency communications to deployed service members on behalf of their family.  Military members can have peace of mind knowing that when they are on a mission, in training or stationed far from home-and leaving cell phones and emails behind-they are still connected to home.

Both active duty and community-based military can count on the Red Cross to provide emergency communications that link them with their families back home, access to financial assistance in partnership with the military aid societies, information and referral and assistance to veterans. 

The Red Cross of Mercer County wishes to thank the community, organizations, businesses and schools for their support of the 2011 Holiday Mail & Gifts for Heroes.  To learn more about the Red Cross or to add your military loved one to our list, please visit www.mercercountyredcross.org , emailing redcross@bright.net or calling 419-586-2201.

 

 

AIHC Board of Directors Meeting

Minutes

 January 4, 2012 – 3:00 p.m. – Coldwater Village Office

 

Vice-President Floyd Winner called the meeting to order at 3:00 P.M. in the absence of President Larry Stelzer who is recovering from surgery.

Roll Call: Board members present Phil Naumann, Eric Thomas, Mauri Cron, Bob Bruns, Barb Kremer, Glen Florence, Norb Tangeman, Bob Seeger and Executive Director Becky MacWhinney. Others present were: Bob Hart and Ivan Knapp

Minutes:  Mauri Cron made a motion to approve the minutes of the December 7, 2011 meeting.  Norb Tangeman seconded the motion.  Motion carried.

Treasurers Report: Treasurer Mauri Cron reported a balance in checking account of $16,428, plus donations and memberships received of $6180, plus $1000 deposited with the Mercer Civic Association, for a total of $23,608.91.   A motion to approve the treasurer’s report was made by Glen Florence and seconded by Eric Thomas.  Motion carried.

Executive Director’s Report: Becky MacWhinney reported on the following:

1.   Renderings of exterior and interior views were available for review.   Becky asked if anyone had questions or suggestions before the final drafts are made.  Answers to some questions were shared.

2.   Cost estimates – Garmann-Miller estimates the costs of renovation, improvements for the facility to be about $1,700,000.  A breakout of the cost estimates was shared.

3.   Interpretive Plan – Becky has been working on this plan and would like to schedule a brainstorming session with a small group to develop themes and sub-themes (the stories we want to tell).  She will set a meeting date and contact those who might be available to assist.

Committee Reports:

Facilities: Eric Thomas reported that everything was fine in the first round of tests at the site.  The second round samples have been gathered and sent in for analysis. 

Membership:  Mauri Cron reported we currently have 8 individual memberships, 12 family memberships, 5 honorary memberships, and 10 business memberships.  The business memberships include two new ones from Wendel Poultry and Garmann-Miller.

Collection and Acquisitions: Floyd Winner noted that he receives numerous calls from persons who have smaller items of memorabilia to donate.  He has accepted these items and expressed the need to have shelving space in the temporary facility to store and sort these items.  Bob Bruns will move some shelving to the facility this week.  Floyd did not acquire any large items in the past month.

Business Planning: Brochures, rendering boards and other items will be needed for fund-raising efforts.  The committee will need to determine the numbers and types to be prepared.

Nominating:  The committee submitted a slate of officers for the 2012 year as follows:  President – Eric Thomas, VP – Floyd Winner, Secretary – Barb Kremer, and Treasurer – Mauri Cron.  No other persons were nominated.  Glen Florence made a motion to elect this slate.  Bob Seeger seconded the motion.  Motion carried.  New officers will begin their terms at the February meeting.

Old Business: None

New Business:

1.  Mercer County Fair Sponsorship – Mauri Cron received information concerning sponsorships for the 2012 Fair.  For $100 AIHC would receive 7 tickets, listing in the fair program and on a large banner, and an invitation to a banquet.  Norb Tangeman made a motion to become a sponsor.  Bob Seeger seconded the motion.  Motion carried.

 

The next regular meeting is scheduled February 8, 2012 at 3:00 P.M. at the Coldwater Village Offices

 

 

NEWS UPDATE FOR FEBRUARY 1, 2012

 

GROUND HOG DAY

 

                                                     

 

 Ground Hog Day-February 2

by Ivan Knapp

 

(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.”

            In short, “Chuck” is only a critter that another Chuckles could love. 

            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.”

 

 

SECTION OF GREEN ROAD TO BE CLOSED

 

             The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is planning to close Green Road between US 127 and Coldwater Creek Road in Butler Township for a box culvert replacement. This road will be closed tentatively on February 6, 2012 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately three to four weeks, depending on the weather conditions.

            Any additional questions, contact the Mercer County Engineer's Office at 419-586-7759.

 

LAW DAY 2012

 

The Mercer County Bar Association will be recognizing Law Day this year on May 3, 2012. To honor that day, the Bar Association is once again sponsoring an essay contest. The essay contest is open to all seventh, eighth, and ninth grader students in Mercer County. This year, the Law Day theme is “No Courts, No Justice, No Freedom." Examples of themes on which students may base their essays include, but are not limited to:

(1) In a free society such as ours, is it important for every person to have ready access to the courts to have their legal disputes settled? Why?

(2) Under current law, most legal disputes that go to a trial are held in a public courtroom open to all to view. What might happen if the trials were held in secret? Would your confidence in the courts decisions, done in secret, undermine your confidence that the law had been objectively applied? Why or why not?

(3) The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guaranties the right to free assembly. Courts have interpreted this to allow for reasonable limits on the time, place and manner of such assemblies. What would happen to this right if the courts were to refuse to hear any case involving the right to assemble?

The Mercer County Bar Association is providing prizes to the first, second, and third place winners as follows: $100.00 cash for first place, $75.00 for second place, and $50.00 for third place. In addition, the winners and their teachers, if the student participated as part of a class project, will be invited to a luncheon and courthouse awards presentation with members of the Mercer County Bar Association. Any eligible student may participate. Entries from all eligible students are welcome and must be mailed no later than March 31, 2012 to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, Attn: Amy B. Ikerd, 119 North Walnut Street, Celina, Ohio 45822. Please be sure to include contact information.

 

TERRY COSBY TO ADDRESS LIA

 

Terry Cosby, the head of the Ohio NRCS office, will be the guest speaker at the LIA meeting on the 4th. The meeting will be at the Celina Moose Lodge at 10 AM. Through Terry's office, several million dollars have been provided to producers in the Lake's watershed to implement actions to reduce nutrient runoff into the Lake. Members of the Ag Solutions group may be interested in attending the meeting since Terry will be able to discuss NRCS's programs and plans for project funding in the watershed.

Please let your members know that Terry will be speaking at the LIA meeting and they are welcome to attend the meeting

 

 

Grief Support Sessions Scheduled

In Coldwater by State of the Heart Hospice

 

 

            State of the Heart Hospice will begin a series of Growing Through Grief Support sessions at the agency’s Coldwater office, 230 W. Main St., on Monday, February 13.  The series of adult group meetings will continue each Monday through March 19. 

            “We are offering the grief support sessions at two different times,” explained Marlene Black, Bereavement Specialist for State of the Heart.  A person can attend an afternoon session from 2 to 4 p.m or choose the evening session from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.  “Often people want to attend our sessions but are limited in when they can attend,” Black added. “The option of two different times offers people a choice.”

            There is no charge for the grief support meetings and anyone can attend, regardless of association with hospice care.  Bereavement support is a service provided by State of the Heart. The non-profit agency cares for families and patients in eastern Indiana and western Ohio who are confronting a life limiting illness.

            “At times we have people who might initially be reluctant to attend the sessions,” said Black.  “However, after attending the support meetings, the response is overwhelmingly positive.  We find that people realize that they are not alone in their grief that others are experiencing what they are.”

            One of the most important things that those attending learn, she added, “is that what they are experiencing is normal and is part of their healing process.” 

            Black encourages anyone who is experiencing grief and loss to attend the meetings. “They can choose to talk about their grief, or they can listen to others.  Inevitably, people tend to open up once they find out they are not the only ones feeling as they do.”

            To register for the Growing Through Grief sessions or to get more information, please call Marlene Black at 1-800-417-7535.  Visit the agency web site at www.stateoftheheartcare.org

           

 

 

Analyzing Wild and Dangerous Animal Ownership in Ohio

By State Senator Cliff Hite

 

It has been more than three months since 56 wild and dangerous animals were released in Zanesville, an event that caught the nation’s attention. We can all clearly recall the photos and coverage that surrounded those events. Throughout Ohio, discussion and debate continues as to whether the tragedy could have been prevented had the proper laws been in place. It is without question that residence of Ohio must never again be subject to such a calamitous event.

Though it occurred hundreds of miles away from the 1st Senate District, much of my time has been devoted to this issue due to my service as Chairman of the Senate Agriculture, Environment, and Natural Resources Committee. This committee has been tasked with reviewing the events that occurred on that day and formulating ways by which it can be avoided in the future.

My involvement with the issue began in October when Governor Kasich convened a taskforce to present recommendations on how to better regulate the ownership of wild and dangerous animals in Ohio. The taskforce was assigned to devise new standards and requirements. In recent months, I have been working with my fellow legislators, agency officials, animal experts, and interested parties to formulate new legislation to safeguard Ohioans. Thus far, I am pleased with the commitment displayed by those who have been working on this matter and hope to continue our collaboration as we move forward.

Drafting legislation of this nature has been a tireless endeavor, especially for a bill that sounds as simple as this one. Often, the most simplistic bills entail the most strenuous and strategic work, but I am honored to have people like Jack Hanna assisting on the bill. Hanna is the Director Emeritus of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and one of the primary proponents of the legislation. His expertise and contribution has provided an exceptional tool in our pursuits and we are lucky to have him in Ohio. He continues to work with us in preparing what we anticipate will be the right legislation.

I hope to have more to report in the coming weeks as a bill is introduced that will hopefully provide logical and responsible resolution to the ownership of these animals in Ohio. Furthermore, I am grateful for the opportunity to lead the Senate Agriculture, Environment, and Natural Resources Committee and to work with my colleagues to craft sound reforms. Though this issue is delicate and vital for the well-being of our friends and neighbors, I am pleased to see so many people sharing their insight on how to move ahead.

As always, I thank you for your support and ask that you contact me should you wish to share any thoughts or concerns on the issues we face. I can be reached by calling (614) 466-8150, through email at SD01@senate.state.oh.us, or by writing me at State Senator Cliff Hite, One Capitol Square, Ground Floor, Columbus, OH 43215.

 

 

Faber Legislation to Offer More Choice to Auto Owners

 

SENATOR KEITH FABER

 

COLUMBUS— State Senator Keith Faber (R – Celina) today presented testimony on Senate Bill 273, legislation that would alleviate some of the restrictions on Ohio’s salvage vehicle market which is one of the most restrictive in the county.

The bill allows for a greater number of participants to compete in the salvage motor vehicle auction process while also opening internet auctions as another forum to purchase the approximately 100,000 totaled vehicles sold by Ohio insurers each year.

Currently, the measure is being considered before the Senate Insurance, Commerce, and Labor Committee.

 

 

 

Parkway FFA Sends Four Freshman To Food Science Competition

 

MADISON ROHEM, KAYLA WALLS, WHITNEY

ROLLINS, TIFFANY RICKETTS


This year the Parkway FFA chapter sent a Food Science team to Wayne Trace to compete. The team included Madison Rohem, Kayla Walls, Whitney Rollins, and Tiffany Ricketts. The girls had to identify different foods and smells, write a customer complaint letter, and took a test on safety hazards. The team placed 5th out of nine teams. The Parkway FFA chapter would like to congratulate the girls on their success.

 

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy

Preserving the Rights of Hunters from West Central Ohio

 

            The 77th House District is known for its agriculture, but along with our rural life comes the important role of sportsmen. Sportsmen are responsible for hunting animals that can be a nuisance to our crops. These outdoorsmen are critical to maintaining wildlife population levels. Without their efforts, crops would be destroyed, disease would run rampant and the limited habitat would be over taken.

 

This year, sportsmen in our area noticed two changes. Non-resident landowners were no longer able to hunt on their own land in Indiana without purchasing an out-of-state license, and deer check was done electronically, closing the longtime deer check stations in our communities.

 

Many constituents wrote and called my office regarding the issue of non-resident landowners. If you are an Ohio resident who owns property in Indiana and you hunt that land, you may have noticed the requirement to purchase an out-of-state license prior to hunting.

 

In the past, both Hoosiers and Ohioans who own land in the other state have been able to hunt that land as a landowner without a license. This was changed with an amendment that was tucked in the 2011-2012 Fiscal Budget, HB 153. One of the basic tenets of freedom is the ability to own private property. Asking a landowner to purchase an out-of-state license to hunt on land that he or she own is an overextension of government. As a result, I have been working with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) to establish an agreement with Indiana that would provide the benefits to local hunters that these hunters rightfully possess.

 

Recently, my office received 255 survey responses from licensed hunters in our community who shared their viewpoints on this topic. Licensed hunters in our communities overwhelmingly rejected the notion that they would have to purchase an out-of-state hunting license to hunt on land that they owned in Indiana.

The results revealed that 245 out of 255, or 96 percent, of licensed hunters were against this law change, while 10 out of 255, or 4 percent, of licensed hunters believe that such a license should be legally required.

 

This change has become law and will be difficult to change.  State representatives and senators from districts along Ohio’s Indiana border are in talks with ODNR to resolve this issue as soon as possible. Our goal is to enter into a reciprocal agreement with Indiana to allow Ohioans and Hoosiers to hunt on their own land in either state with an in-state hunting license.

 

 

The results of the returned surveys also illustrated that hunters found the electronic deer check to be an effective way to check in killed deer. Specifically, the data revealed that 159 out of 263 that responded to the question, or 60 percent, of licensed hunters believed that the electronic deer check functioned well, while 80 out of 263, or 30 percent, of hunters believe that checking deer electronically is not serving hunters well.

 

Many hunters commented that they felt the new technology allowed more poaching.  Time will tell, and I am encouraging the Division of Wildlife to strictly monitor enforcement of poaching for this reason.

 

Hunters in Ohio have experienced two important changes to Ohio hunting laws within the past 12 months. Your opinion on these matters is important to me.  As a result of the opinions from West Central Ohio, I will actively seek resolution of the non-resident landowner issue pursue advancements to the electronic deer check system.  I am proud to represent the fine people of this region and I hope you will continue to provide feedback on these issues and many more that are important to our everyday lives.    

 

AG SOLUTIONS JANUARY, 2012 MINUTES

 

 Ag Solutions, a farmer partnership from the Grand Lake St. Mary’s watershed is working to find solutions to our nutrient and water quality issues. The group is meeting monthly to evaluate and review the possible solutions for nutrients in the watershed.

At the January meeting, the group had updates on over 10 different technologies, businesses or products that can help the farmers handle their nutrients. These technologies included manure digesters, manure to bioresin by the company NuVention that is taking hog manure to asphalt in test pilot. In addition, they discussed lagoons-treatments-different construction options and converting manure to organic fertilizer by the company Amiran Technologies. The group is working with these companies on test studies and trying to find the most cost effective and workable option for our area.

The group also received updates from the Mercer County Economic Development office and from local agriculture agencies such as OSU Extension, Mercer Soil and Water District and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources-Division of Soil and Water. Upcoming opportunities for educational opportunities with OSU Extension on manure management were brought forward. The group was informed that the Marion Local Ag Ed boosters have scheduled Hinda Mitchell CMA farm advocate to speak at the Maria Stein Legion hall at 7:30 on February 7.

As a reminder the group meets on the first Monday of each month at the Marion Township Library at 8:00 pm. We welcome anyone interested in helping find positive solutions in our watershed. Next meeting is February 6, 2012

CONTACT: mcdo@roadrunner.com

PHONE: (419) 925-4764

 

 

BOY SCOUTS LEADERS TROOP 69 RECOGNIZED

 

Members of Boy Scout Troop 69, Celina, OH were honored at the annual Old Sycamore District Dinner held on Sunday, January 8th, 2012 at the St. Joseph Parish Life Center, 309 Perry St. Wapakoneta. Local volunteers of the Boy Scouts of America from Auglaize and Mercer counties were recognized for their dedication and achievements throughout 2011. 

 

Receiving awards from Boy Scout Troop 69 were Jerry Braun for Outstanding Scoutmaster 2011.  This award is presented to an individual who has given outstanding service to his/her unit, serving as Scoutmaster for two (2) years or longer.  Jerry is currently serving his third year as Scoutmaster and been involved with the organization for 8 years. 

 

Randy Engle was recognized as the Unit Committee Chair of the Year.  Randy has been active in scouting for more than five decades, well exceeding the five year minimum required and is currently serving his fourth year as Unit Committee Chair for Troop 69.  In January 2011, Randy was awarded The Honor Medal from National Boy Scouts of America for demonstrating unusual heroism at considerable risk to him for saving the life of a neighbor on May 1, 2009 who fell into a pond while mowing.

 

 

IN MEMORY OF

BESSIE ROSE (JACKSON) OELLERMAN

1929-2012

 

 

 

    THE JACKSON GIRLS

ANNA MARYAND BESSIE ROSE JACKSON

 

 

 

 

 

SPECIAL NEWS RELEASE

MERCER COUNTY PHEASANTS FOREVER

ANNUAL BANQUET

JANUARY 28, 2012

ST. HENRY AMERICAN LEGION

 

    JONAS FOOTE, EMCEE

 

JIM ZEHRINGER, DIRECTOR ODNR

 

RICK MUHLENKAMP, CONSERVATION AWARD

AND BILL KNAPKE, PRESIDENT PHEASANTS

FOREVER

DUNCAN HOMAN, SCHOLARSHIP

 

ALEX FORSTHOEFEL, SCHOLARSHIP

 

GARY KUESS

 

DUSTIN CHRISMAN

 

TONY SIEGEL

 

MATT EVERS

 

KYLE BETTINGER

 

DERRICK BRUNS

 

MAON STAUGLER

 

RANDY BROCKMAN

 

CRAIG BUSCHUR

 

ETHAN STAUGLER

 

TONY SIEGEL

 

PAT HEMMELGARN

 

DIANE WESTGERDES

 

CAROL BUSCHUR

 

 

NEWS UPDATE FOR JANUARY 30, 2012

 

 

Rep. Buchy Honors St. Henry Girls’ Volleyball Team

 

COLUMBUS—State Representative Jim Buchy (R-Greenville) today presented a resolution to the girls’ volleyball team from St. Henry High School on the floor of the Ohio House of Representatives in recognition of its state championship title. He was joined by State Senator Keith Faber (R-Celina).

“These girls embody the principles of hard work and dedication,” Representative Buchy said. “They are a group of outstanding individuals, and I applaud them for their achievements.”

The girls’ volleyball state championship title marked the seventh for St. Henry High School, making it the winningest Division Four volleyball team in state history in terms of state championships.

The school has the 14th most state titles in all sports in Ohio.

 

 

 

Hite and Findlay Students Participate in We the People

 

 

COLUMBUS — State Senator Cliff Hite (R - Findlay) and Findlay High School students today took part in We the People, a nationally-acclaimed civic education program. The event was coordinated by the Ohio Center for Law-Related Education.

Prior to joining the General Assembly, Hite spent several years as a teacher and football coach in the Findlay School District.

The event was held at The Thomas J. Moyer Ohio Judicial Center in Columbus, Ohio.

 

BUS TRIP TO NATIONAL FARM MACHINERY SHOW

 

Attention FFA Alumni Members:

The FFA Alumni Officers and Advisors have planned the 2nd annual charter bus trip to attend the National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville, Kentucky. The charter will depart early in the morning and return that evening. It is open to anyone and you should contact Lisa Timmerman if interested. Please help spread the word about this trip. All tentative details are listed below. If you have questions, contact Lisa Timmerman, Stacy Brown, Mike Thien, Mr. Gower, or Mr. Hawk.

National Farm Machinery Show Charter Trip

Sponsored by the Fort Recovery FFA Alumni

When: Friday, February 17, 2012

Where: Louisville, Kentucky

Time: Depart Fort Recovery High School at 6 AM and return at 11 PM

Cost: $40 for alumni members and $50 for non-members.

Tentative Itinerary

5:45 AM – Arrive at Fort Recovery High School

(Donuts/Coffee/Juice)

6:00 AM – Depart Fort Recovery High School Commons

10:00 AM – Arrive at National Farm Machinery Show

(Snacks/Pop/Water provided on Charter Bus)

6:00 PM – Depart Louisville

6:30 PM – Stop for a Buffet Meal

11:00 PM – Arrive at Fort Recovery High School

Other Information

The cost includes travel, admission, donuts, coffee, juice, snacks, water, and pop.

 The evening buffet meal will not be included in the price.

 This charter bus tour will be on a first-come, first-serve basis and seats are limited.

 FFA Alumni members will have first priority.

 You MUST CONTACT Lisa Timmerman at 419-305-5443 to reserve your spot by January 31.

 Please make your checks payable to the Fort Recovery FFA Alumni and mail to Lisa Timmerman at 1755 Sharpsburg Road, Fort Recovery, Ohio 45846.

 The money is due by January 31.

 Hurry to reserve your spot!

--

 

Rockford Community Days is holding a SCOTCH DOUBLES BOWLING FUNDRAISER

@ Pla-Mor Lanes Coldwater, Ohio - Saturday March 10th @ 7 pm.

Cost $30.00 per couple for 3 games

Must register by March 4th to

Will Welling - 419-852-2663 or wilburwelling@yahoo.com or
Rockford Village office @ 419-363-3032 ext 1

Proceeds to benefit Shanes Park.

 

 

St. Teresa Parish Annual Dance

Saturday - March 10th, 2012
8-11 pm - doors open @ 7 pm

Rockford Community Building

Band - Blind Date

$15.00 per person / $25 per Couple
Beverages/Chip included

Open to the Public

 

 

SPECIAL NEWS RELEASE

STATE OF THE VILLAGES  BREAKFAST

JANUARY 26, 2012

NEW KNOXVILLE AMERICAN LEGION

 

SCOTT FRY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SW AUGLAIZE

COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

 

DENNIS KITZMILLER, KEITH LEFFEL, JEFF PAPE

 

DENNIS KITZMILLER, MAYOR OF MINSTER

KEITH LEFFEL, MAYOR OF NEW KNOXVILLE

 

JEFF PAPE, MAYOR OF NEW BREMEN

 

CORY NOONAN, REPRESENTATIVE FOR JIM JORDAN

 

SENATOR KEITH FABER

 

REPRESENTATIVE ROBERT SPRAGUE

 

 

 

 

NEWS UPDATE FOR JAUARY 27, 2012

 

WOEF Board Celebrates 50 Years

Supporting Students…Transforming Communities

JULIE MILLER, BERNIE SCHROER, NEIL STEMLEY, GUS WINTZER,

PAM BAKER, DEE WHITCRAFT, DENNNIS HIRT, JANE STUCKMAN,

ROBERT HISKEY

 

Celina, Ohio – This week marks the 50th anniversary of the Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF). Throughout 2012, the WOEF Board, its past and present members, as well as Wright State University-Lake Campus will celebrate fifty years of promoting and assisting higher education in the area by hosting a number of public and private events.

Incorporated on January 24, 1962, the Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) was organized by a group of forward-thinking citizens in response to a growing desire for Auglaize, Darke, Mercer and Van Wert county residents to have access to higher education. This grass-roots organization secured the funding to build and operate an institution of higher education in this rural northwest Ohio region. After fifty years, the Lake Campus of Wright State University is the only institution of higher education in the West Central Ohio. For five decades, WOEF has remained strongly committed to the success of the Lake Campus.

Since 1965, WOEF has awarded over $2.7 million in scholarships to Lake Campus students while providing unwavering financial support for student programs and activities. The Board has spearheaded various fundraising campaigns securing the land to build the academic buildings, the first student housing unit, and other renovations throughout the last fifty years. Visitors to the campus during 2012 will see the banner displaying the 50th logo created by student, Mara Rindler, on a black banner donated in part by Reynolds & Reynolds. The banner holds a place of honor on the WSU-Lake Campus sign on the corner of SR 703 and Lake Campus Drive.

 

Photo Identification: From left to right, Julie Miller, WOEF Development Officer, Bernie Schroer, past-President WOEF Board, Neil Stemley, Mercer County Trustee, Gus Wintzer, Auglaize County Trustee, Pam Baker, Van Wert County Trustee, Dee Whitcraft, President WOEF Board, Dennis Hirt, Mercer County Trustee, Jane Stuckman, past President WOEF Board, and Robert Hiskey, Lake Campus Associate Dean.

 

 

 

 Looking forward to 2012 at Grand Lake St. Marys State Park

 

2012 is going to be another aggressive year at Grand Lake St. Marys. Below is a list of the current projects.

 Discounted fees offered now through August 30 which will include 25% off of camping, get away rentals and shelter house as well as 50% off of private & state dock fees excluding May 25 – 27 & June 30 – July 8.

 New dredge “Brutus” scheduled to be delivered 2nd week of February. This will be a replacement of the 1968 “St. Marys” dredge

 Dredge program goal is 275,000 cubic yards

 East Bank Launch Ramp renovations. The existing launch ramps will be renovated as well as the parking lot will be expanded and resurfaced. This project is being funded by grant funding from the ODNR Divisions of Watercraft & Wildlife at an estimated cost of $266,000 and is scheduled for spring/summer.

 St. Marys Boat Club & Frey’s launch ramp lighting. These projects being funded by Division of Wildlife using “Boater Angler” funds and are scheduled for spring.

 Campground restroom replacement. This project is scheduled for spring/summer.

 Campground seawall & dock expansion. This projects being funded by Division of Wildlife using “Boater Angler” funds and are scheduled for spring.

 Campground & Windy Point paving. Deteriorated roadways in both areas will be resurfaced spring/summer.

 Harmon’s rip rap project will be completed this spring.

 Rough fish removal will continue with an additional 3 new nets ordered and funded by ODNR Division of Wildlife.

 Alum application - $1.5 million secured. Additional funds being solicited. Goal is to begin whole lake application April 1st weather dependent.

 Prairie Creek Treatment Train Phase 1 will be completed throughout the year

 Littoral Wetland – US Army Corp of Engineers in cooperation with ODNR funded a study of a littoral wetland. The study will be completed this spring.

 Aeration pilots – The State Park will be working with various companies to pilot different aeration technologies during the summer.

 Relocate “Airy Gator” from Park Grand bay to mouth of St. Marys Boat Club. This until will be monitored for impact in a “open channel”.

 Work will commence on the tow path trail north of US RT 33 to prepare for the extension of the crushed lime stone path

 

MERCER COUNTY SPELLING BEE

 

 

The 2011-12 Mercer County Spelling Bee will be held on Monday, February 6, 2012

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, Fort 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 7, 2012 at the same time and location.

 

 

Ryan Hirschy Ministries and Amy Roth Highlighted at Rockford Belle

                                                        

                                                      RYAN HIRSCHY



Mark your calendars for February 4, 2012 when The Rockford Belle enthusiastically invites Ryan Hirschy Ministries, of Decatur, Indiana for a full contemporary Christ-centered concert. Doors open at 6 PM. Concert will begin at 7 PM with Parkway High School performing arts senior, Amy Roth, to open for the evening’s event. The public is welcome to attend the entertainment venue located at 135 Market Street, Rockford, OH. A free-will donation is accepted.

Since 1995, Ryan Hirschy has shared his love for Christ through music throughout the country performing for many different denominations and organizations.

Christ is the focus and heart of his Ministry. It is Ryan’s desire that as people attend his Contemporary style music concerts, they are filled with courage and hope to claim the grace that Jesus freely offers.

Having a heart for service not only motivated him to start this Ministry, but led him into funeral service. Whether serving a grieving family or on the road ministering through music, his desire is to meet the needs of others.

 

                                                  

                                                                                              AMY ROTH

Amy Roth, an eighteen year old music aficionado, opens for Ryan Hirschy Ministries.  Roth has performed at The Belle with the Parkway High School Chamber Choir and knows her way around the stage. The Belle entertainment venue warmly welcomes Amy back for her first solo appearance.

 Music has played a big role in Amy’s life- she has mastered the ability to play several instruments: piano, French horn, flute, organ, and mallet percussion; she composes music for the piano and band groups in which she performs.

Practice and hard work has brought Amy’s achieved goals, from childhood through adulthood, to fruition. She began taking piano lessons as an eight year old with Larry Taylor of Ohio City and knew then, of her desire to major in music. Now soon to graduate from Parkway High School, she has plans to attend Miami University in the fall and major in instrumental music education. She will take with her an impressive resume filled with many musical performing and composing accomplishments.

Remarkable is the word to use for describing Amy Roth’s in school and out of school music activities and memberships! Her high school memberships include marching band, concert band, pep band, chamber choir, and show choir. She has participated in District III solo and Ensemble and taken both instrumental and vocal events.

Outside of school, her activities include Ohio Northern University Music Camp, Laudate Music Ministry Camp, and Capital University’s Honors Reading Band Clinic. In 2010, she was chosen to participate in the Ohio Has Talent! contest sponsored by Community Health Professionals’ in Van Wert, OH. She is the principal horn player in the Lima Area Youth Orchestra and has participated in the District III Honors Band for the past two years. Amy is a member of St. Theresa’s Catholic Church and has been playing the organ there for five years.

Experience local talent at The Rockford Belle on February 4, 2012 in a warm and family friendly environment! Take the opportunity to visit with Ryan Hirschy Ministries and Amy Roth when they appear at The Belle. For more information contact Tom Rogers at 567-644-9993.

 

 

Mercer Health Begins New Public Education Program

 

                Mercer Health officials announced today that they will begin a new public education program entitled “Mercer Healthy Living Series”. The first one will be held at Mercer County Community Hospital on Monday, February 13, in Meeting Room 1 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

            The topic of the first program is “Heart Healthy Eating”. It will be presented by Julie Hemmelgarn, Registered Dietitian at Mercer Health. She will be showing simple techniques that can be used to improve your health. There will be time available for questions throughout the presentation.

            Lori Shellabarger, Mercer Health’s Patient Advocate and organizer of the event, says, “After offering our Dine and Discover Program for nearly 5 years, we felt it was time to make some changes. These changes are reflected in our new name.”

            Persons wanting more information about the program or who would like to register in advance can call 419-678-5615. The program is held in Meeting Room 1 at Mercer County Community Hospital, 800 West Main Street, Coldwater, Ohio.

 

 

Mercer Health Diabetes Support Group To Meet

 

Mercer Health’s Diabetic Support Group will meet on Monday, February 13, 2012 at 2 p.m. At Mercer County Community Hospital, 800 West Main Street, Celina, in Meeting Room 2.

Peg Bruggeman RN, CDE, a registered nurse and certified diabetes educator at the Mercer Health Diabetes Center, will be discussing “The Emotional Side of Diabetes Management”.

For those unable to attend the February 13th program, it will be repeated on Tuesday, February 21, beginning at 6:00 PM in Meeting Room 2 at the hospital with Karen Homan, RD, LD, CDE providing the discussion.

 There is no fee and advance registration is not necessary.  Please call 419-586-9657 with questions.

 

 

SPECIAL NEWS RELEASE

MERCER COUNTY CATTLEMEN'S ASSOCIATION

21ST ANNUAL BANQUET

JANUARY 24, 2012

 

TOM KNAPKE, EMCEE

 

ROGER KNAPKE, CATTLEMEN OF THE YEAR

 

ALYSSA MUHLENKAMP AND ASHLEY SELHORST

QUEENS 2011 AND 2012

 

ALYSSA MUHLENKAMP, SCHOLARSHIP WINNER

 

FATHER OF DYLAN PLATFOOT, SCHOLARSHIP WINNER

 

NICOLE HART, SCHOLARSHIP WINNER

 

MIKE HEMMELGARN, COMEDY, JUGGLER,

VENTRILOQUIST

 

 

MARTY AND ASHLEY KNAPKE

 

 

 

IN MEMORY OF ROBERT V. VAN TREES

1918-2012

AUTHOR, PAINTER, HISTORIAN, PILOT

 

 

ROBERT V. VAN TREES STANDS IN FRONT OF A COUPLE

OF HIS PAINTINGS AT THE FORT RECOVERY MUSEUM

 

 

NEWS UPDATE FOR JANUARY 23, 2012

 

HINDA MITCHELL TO ADDRESS MARION LOCAL

 

“The distressed condition of Grand Lake St. Mary is creating a negative image of farmers in the watershed and their commitment to protecting the waters in our community. Hinda Mitchell, vice-president of CMA, a national agriculture communications firm, will tell farmers how they can tell their story and share the positive story of agriculture and environmental responsibility. Mitchell will be speaking at the Maria Stein American Legion Hall on Tuesday February 7, 2012 at 7:30pm. Hinda counsels multiple farming, agriculture and food company clients, advising them on how to communicate the values farmers share with all consumers. A dynamic speaker, she will discuss with our farm community effective steps that can be taken to promote a positive image about farming in the watershed. Hosted by the Marion Local Ag Ed Boosters.”

 

 GLWWA Joint Board Meeting

Mercer SWCD – Board Room

220 W. Livingston Street

Celina, OH 45822

4:00 PM Thursday, January 26, 2012

S Introductions

S Additions to the Agenda

S Minutes

S Treasurer’s Report

S Board Reorganization

S Authorization Letter

S Fair Sponsorship

S 2012 Schedule

S COLA

S Grant Updates

S Watershed Coordinator Report

S Public Policy

S Next Meeting Date/Time

 

 

MERCER COLOR JOINS CHAMBER

 

KATHY RINDER, PAM BUSCHUR, PATRICK BERGER,

MARK BAUMER, TWYLA HAYES

 

Mercer Color Corporation has joined the Celina Mercer County Chamber of
Commerce. Established in 1981, Mercer Color is located at 425 Hardin
Street, Coldwater. At Mercer Color Corporation they take great pride in our
printing capabilities along with our Environmental Stewardship. Visit
www.mercercolor.com

Pictured from left to right:

Kathy Rindler, Sunset Tours & Chamber Ambassador
Pam Buschur, Chamber Director
Patrick Berger, Vice President & Owner of Mercer Color
Mark Baumer, President & Owner of Mercer Color
Twyla Hayes, Brandit Marketing & Chamber Ambassador

 

 

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy

 

The Heartbeat Bill: Putting Ohio on the Front Lines of the ProLife Movement

A baby’s heart begins to beat around 8 weeks into a pregnancy; this is where many in the prolife movement believe we can avert hundreds of abortions in Ohio weekly. I believe life starts at conception and I will take every possible step to save lives weather it is 1 or 1 million. House Bill 125 the “Heartbeat Bill” is the next step to ending abortion. The Heartbeat Bill is widely supported in the prolife community and the General Assembly. I am a co-sponsor of HB 125 which is sponsored by Representative Lynn Wachtmann of Napoleon. The bill passed the Ohio House on June 28th; 54 to 44.

Throughout west central Ohio, there are many questions about the Heartbeat Bill. The bill is surrounded by confusion because the most prominent prolife organization, The Ohio Right to Life has not been supportive of the bill. As a result a new prolife organization has formed and many Right to Life Chapters have left the Ohio Right to Life and joined Ohio ProLife Action, an organization which backs the Heartbeat Bill.

The Heartbeat Bill establishes regulations banning abortions when an unborn child has a heartbeat:

·        Requires a person performing an abortion to determine if the unborn child has a heartbeat.

·        If a heartbeat is present an abortion cannot be performed.

o     The life of the mother is an exception and an abortion could still be performed with the intention of saving the mother’s life.

·        Requires a person performing an abortion when the heartbeat of an unborn child is present to have “informed consent.”

o     A notice to the mother 24 hours prior to the abortion that informs the mother of certain specified information regarding the probability of bringing the child to full term.

*Source: Legislative Service Commission, Bill Analysis Am. Sub. HB 125, As Passed by the House.

When I was asked to co-sponsor the Heartbeat Bill I did not hesitate. In west central Ohio, we are supporters of the prolife movement and we will stand for any organization or effort that protects life. This belief has guided my decision to support the bill. It guided my efforts to assist with the passage of the Heartbeat Bill in the Ohio House of Representatives.

Currently, the bill is in the Senate and is being examined by Senators in the hearing process. I believe the time to pass the Heartbeat Bill is now. We cannot sit back and watch more babies be killed in elective abortions. Experts say; if the Heartbeat Bill is enforced as law it will reduce abortions. In fact, they estimate upwards of 90% of abortions will be avoided as a result. When the Heartbeat Bill is law, it will make Ohio’s abortion restrictions the toughest in the country.

This bill is the frontline of the movement. In past abortion battles, we have went head to head with Planned Parenthood and NARAL and we succeeded. I will continue to work with my colleagues to avoid anymore delay in the passage of this bill. The opposition to this bill must stand down. We cannot afford to allow anymore precious and meaningful lives to be lost.

 

 

Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Banquet

 

                                                                 

                                                                                                        DR. TODD DEWITT

The Chamber’s Annual Awards Banquet is scheduled for Thursday, February 23
at Romer’s in Celina.  Four Chamber awards are given out that evening.  They are business of the year, citizen of the year, humanitarian, and achievement.  Each year someone or group is given one of these awards in appreciation for all they do for the community.  Award application forms are available online at www.celinamercer.com or call the Chamber at 419 586-2219. 

Guest speaker for the banquet is Dr. Todd Dewett.  Dr. Dewett is a Full Professor with degrees in business from the University of Memphis (bachelors), the University of Tennessee (MBA), and Texas A&M University (Ph.D. in Management). Along the way he has picked up numerous teaching awards, research awards and a long list of clients. He has consulted in over fifty cities across several countries. He has worked for Fortune 500 firms and startups, product companies and service companies, private companies and government agencies.   Before going it alone he enjoyed positions at Andersen Consulting (now Accenture) as well as Ernst & Young.  He now spends his time fighting hard to change the world one cubicle at a time!  Bottom line: He is loud, he looks funny, and he knows how to motivate. Someone once said he was Fuel for Leaders and it stuck. If you need a new perspective and a dose of high energy, Dr. Todd Dewett is your answer. 

 

His topic for the banquet is "How to be a Rockstar Leader."  Effective leadership is vital for competitiveness now more than ever!  Join Dr. Dewett and hear his engaging take on the fundamentals of great leadership.  From motivation to conflict to change, nobody makes you laugh and learn faster.  Get ready for stories that bring leadership to life.

 

Dr. Dewett will have a radio show in 2012.   Fuel For Leaders with Dr. Dewett will be on Cox station WHIO 1290AM and 95.7FM on Sunday's from 11am-noon.  Bringing Dr. Dewett to Celina is our Gold Sponsor, WCSM Radio and our Silver Sponsors are Premier Flooring Installations and Dynamic Federal Credit Union. 

Tickets are on sale for $25 per ticket or you can purchase a corporate table of eight for
$195.00.  Your ticket price includes a delicious dinner, quest speaker, awards program,
and time for business networking.  Last date to purchase tickets is February 17th.   Call the Chamber for tickets at 419 586-2219 or email info@celinamercer.com.

 

 

New Bremen Seniors announce meeting

NEW BREMEN SENIORS TO MEET JANUARY 25

(New Bremen)

 

The New Bremen Senior Citizens will be having their January meeting on the 25th. It will be held at the Senior Center, 700 East Monroe St., New Bremen at 2:00 pm.  All local seniors 55 years or older are welcome to attend. There will be a short meeting followed by an attendance prize drawing, lunch, and bingo.

 

Serving on the lunch committee this month are Mildred Luntz, Carol Parmelee, Joann Homan, and Carl Hoehne.  Call Ed Heuker at 419-629-2206 to check on renting the hall for your private party. The quilting ladies are looking for a quilt to do. Call Mary Hespe at 419-619-0704 or Verona Poeppelman at 419-629-2281 to arrange to have one quilted.

 

 

Recent graduate visits local Rotary club to say thanks

 

                              

                                             KATIE GOETTEMOELLER

 

(New Bremen)

 

Katie Goettemoeller, a 2011 graduate from New Bremen High School recently visited the New Bremen-New Knoxville to thank the club for awarding her a four-year college scholarship.  “I am majoring in psychology at the University of Dayton and I love it,” said Goettemoeller.  “I really appreciate this scholarship.  College is expensive, and this will really help me afford school.”  As a student at New Bremen High School, Goettemoeller was active in choir and band all four years, serving as the Field Commander of the Cardinal Marching Band during her senior year.

“I had originally planned to do music therapy,” said Goettemoeller.  “But I really love psychology.  I’d like to earn my Master’s degree and eventually my Doctorate in abnormal child psychology.”  Each year, the New Bremen-New Knoxville Rotary Club offers several scholarships to graduating seniors from New Bremen and New Knoxville schools.

 

 

Galaxy Leaders 4-H Club January 12 Minutes

 

The January 12, 2012 meeting of the Galaxy Leaders 4-H club was called to order by President Brianna Wenning. Thirteen members answered roll call by saying if they had a nice Christmas. Five advisors and four guests were also present.

Brayden Quinn led the Pledge of Allegiance and Amanda Melhouse led the 4-H Pledge.

The secretary and treasurers reports were read and approved. Hannah Fox made a motion to approve and Sarah Brunswick seconded it. Motion passed.

Under old business, Cody Freeman, Nancy Freeman and Carol Westgerdes attended the Counselor Retreat on December 27th and 28th. Each talked about the many activities that took place on those two days. Most of the camp activities were planned. The theme for this years 4-H Camp is “Christmas In June”.

Under new business, we had installation of the new officers by the candle light ceremony. Advisor Brenda Powell did the readings. Corey Moorman had a January birthday and received a candy bar. The club welcomed Stacy Hess as a Cloverbud advisor for the club. We had Mothers Night tonight. Advisor Carol Westgerdes handed folders to all the mothers containing paper work from the Extension Office that needed filled out. These folders contained a health form, photo release paper, calling plan paper, enrollment sheet and other important papers for the parents. Advisors Carol Westgerdes and Brenda Powell talked about the county fundraiser that we will be conducting in February and March. We will be selling Pie Peddler pies for $10.00. These will be here in time to enjoy for Easter. Members need to return the paper work and money to Carol before March 19th. The project books were on display for everyone to look at. Members were asked to choose their fair projects.

Cody Freeman gave a safety report on goggles safe search, a health report on sleep habits and disorders, an energy report on minimizing wind turbine productivity, and a demonstration on how to make a duct tape top hat.

The meeting was adjourned by Madison Fox and seconded by Amanda Melhouse. The Freeman family and Carol Westgerdes served refreshments.

The Cloverbud activity was making cardinal wreaths. Members played the Bee game for recreation.

The next meeting will be on February 9, 2012 at 7PM at the Coldwater Library meeting room. Lauren Wenning and Rachel Schmackers will have reports and the Huser/Mann family will have refreshments.

New members welcome.

Carol Westgerdes, reporter

 

 

 AG SOLUTIONS

Meeting Agenda/Brief Recap & Updates

8pm Monday January 09, 2012 Marion Township Library

1. Jim Keller - Welcome, brief Introductions, meeting purpose.

2. Jared Ebbing – general update, latest on Amiran – Amiran, our County Economic Development Office, and Jobs Ohio are working diligently to set up a plant located in Mercer County which would convert manure into organic fertilizer. If everything unfolds as planned this would be a huge win for our county since it would solidly address the vexing issue of swine pit manure and provide up to 150 jobs. Initial investment would be around $12 million.

3. Bill Knapke – General update, Lagoon Fix outcome. Bill’s tests with Lagoon Fix were inconclusive since we have been informed by Bud Thomas, the promoter of the product that contaminated material had been sent to Bill. Bill and Bud are cooperating to conduct a second test this time hopefully with an additive that is uncontaminated.

4. Don Droesch – Lagoon Fix tests – Don also received contaminated material so his most recent tests were meaningless as well.

5. Jim Keller – Grand Lake ADAPT (“Agronomic Decisions for Advancement and Profit”) Network from Tom Menke. ADAPT Network was formerly the On-Farm Network. Tom Menke furnished the following update which was read at the meeting.

 

Update on the Grand Lake Adapt Network:

1. Sampling of corn stalks (52 samples) in standing corn to evaluate sufficient and deficient nitrogen applications was performed in November. Numbers are extremely interesting (variable) and there will be a follow-up with those whose fields were sampled to gather fertilizer histories to correlate the results.

2. Soil sampling is on-going to analyze many soil nutrient factors to get a feel for the fertility status throughout the entire watershed. The goal is to sample 96 fields (2,400 acres) with samples representing each subwatershed and multiple farm management situations. The wet weather slowed us down earlier since harvest, but considerable progress is being made with sampling last week and this week. If you see (saw) a couple 4-wheelers out on some fields today and tomorrow, it’s probably us.

3. A farmer meeting for participants will be held in March where results will be shared with the group (without identifying any individual operation). The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss the tests, what they mean, and how to properly interpret soil sample results. Then test strip plot layouts for the 2012 growing season will be looked at and

explanation of the plots and how they will be managed and what we expect to learn from them.

 

An attendee asked why the name change. Tom had advised about that in an email also. His comments: One thing you need to know is that it’s no longer the On Farm Network. The Western Lake Erie Basin and the Grand Lake projects are now part of the ADAPT Network, which has outgrown the Iowa-based OFN and will be specific to the Ohio, Indiana and Michigan regional projects. ADAPT stands for “Agronomic Decisions for Advancement and Profit Today”, so we will be known as the Grand Lake ADAPT Network. It all plays into the new push by NRCS for something called “adaptive management”, which is exactly what this program is.

6. Jim Hoorman - General Update, Ag meetings in Columbus, Upcoming “Manure Technology Educational Program”. Jim advised that the meetings in Columbus were continuing with heavy focus on the Lake Erie issues. No definitive regulations have been adopted at this point but the group is leaning toward requiring soil samples before any commercial fertilizer can be applied. Large fertilizer dealers are present at the meetings so they have a voice. Jim is coordinating an upcoming manure education day with Steve Baertsche. Tentative date is March 16. The current proposed agenda is heavily oriented toward digesters. The group felt that some of the other solutions deserved to be addressed and several people requested that the topics be presented in laymen’s terms. Speaking in simple, understandable language is especially relevant when the PhD chemists present. Given the complexity of the topics this is not always easy to do but the Ag Solutions group requests that the presenters give it a good effort.

7. Jim Keller – Review of Possible “Solutions”

Digesters – several – Digesters hold promise. They do not directly reduce phosphorus in the manure stream and some challenges exist in making effective use of the power generated. For example electricity generated needs to be sold to a power company. Digester firms are making solid progress on these issues and we are staying abreast of any developments.

Struvite – Ted Thieman – Procorp, Keith Bowers – CTO Multiform Harvest – These technologies work best with highly liquid manure so the effluent from Digesters would be ideal feedstock. The technology is proven but more needs to be known about the cost both initial and operating.

Amiran Technologies – Manure to Organic Fertilizer – Amiran has a good start toward an effective solution and a solid Mercer County presence. They are working with Jared Ebbing, County Development Director, and Jobs Ohio to finalize plans for a facility which would convert manure into an organic fertilizer. If their business plan is solid regarding the technology and the marketability of their fertilizer, their approach could go a long way toward providing a truly workable solution.

 

Lagoons – Aerobic and Anaerobic – Lagoons do work with experience proving that phosphorus sinks to the bottom and can be mined for profit later. Lagoons require space which reduces crop production acres and frequently neighbors resent the odors. Terry Mescher shared some insight into his pursuit of the feasibility of settling basins. Terry will provide additional info at our February meeting.

Membrane Filtration - Integrated Separations Solutions, BKT (South Korea) – Ag Solutions has not pursued this technology aggressively but it works well in South Korea and on dairy farms in Wisconsin. Appears to be costly with significant maintenance required to keep the system functioning effectively.

Manure to BioResin – NuVention - NuVention is performing a pilot project near Wooster. Some very professional people, with solid track records, are promoting this technology. The next step may be a portable unit which can be brought to a farm sight for a trial.

Livestock Water Recycling (LWR) Canada – A couple of Ag Solutions members are investigating the feasibility of this approach. It appears to work well in Canada, but further investigation is required.

Composting – Composting has generated little interest due to space requirements and composting does not lend itself well to one of our largest challenges - the manure from a swine pit.

Transporting manure out of area – cost/benefits – Some farmers; primarily those with acreage outside the watershed are doing this. The big problem is cost especially for swine pit manure which has a low nutrient to volume ratio and quickly becomes prohibitively expense to transport.

Ozonation – The group is just starting to learn about this technology which might do a good job of separating phosphorus from the liquid concentrating the nutrient in the solids portion which would make it more valuable to transport.

Lagoon Fix - Ag Solutions has conducted a few trials with this additive which claims to remove phosphorus. What is most likely happening is that the phosphorus is being concentrated in the solids in a chemical bond that is not being detected by traditional testing. This could be beneficial in that like Ozonation and lagoons, the more concentrated nutrients are the more valuable the manure becomes.

$50,000 grant – Ag Solutions has been awarded a $50,000 grant from the USDA/NRCS. This grant will fund professional inquiry into all proposed solutions and provide feedback as to which ones have the greatest potential. Dr. Harold Keener with OSU is coordinating all grant activities.

8. How to focus and concentrate efforts for effective meaningful results. Very little discussion resulted from this agenda item except that everyone is hopeful that through the Battelle feedback, our own research, and the research that will be provided by the USDA/NRCS grant we can narrow our focus to some workable real world solutions.

 

9. Jim Keller – Hinda Mitchell and others promo. Hinda Mitchell with CMA has collected some funds for her efforts to promote the good things our watershed farmers are doing. You are encouraged to come and hear Hinda locally. Read the press release below for all details.

 

The distressed condition of Grand Lake St. Mary is creating a negative image of farmers in the watershed and their commitment to protecting the waters in our community. Hinda Mitchell, vice-president of CMA, a national agriculture communications firm, will tell farmers how they can tell their story and share the positive story of agriculture and environmental responsibility. Mitchell will be speaking at the Maria Stein American Legion Hall on Tuesday February 7, 2012 at 7:30pm. Hinda counsels multiple farming, agriculture and food company clients, advising them on how to communicate the values farmers share with all consumers. A dynamic speaker, she will discuss with our farm community effective steps that can be taken to promote a positive image about farming in the watershed. Hosted by the Marion Local Ag Ed Boosters.

10. MCDO Promotion – As the umbrella organization, the MCDO has spent considerable time and treasure promoting the Ag Solutions cause. We are encouraging all receiving these updates to join our organization. It costs only $15.00 annually and it will help to fund the positive efforts we are contributing to this community. A membership form will be attached to the email distributing this recap.

11. Next meeting date, time, and location.

 

8pm Monday February 6, 2012

Marion Township Library

Chickasaw, Ohio

 

 

 

 

 

POSTER ADS FOR JANUARY 23, 2012

 

 

 

 

SPECIAL NEWS RELEASE

 

UNITED WAY OF AUGLAIZE COUNTY

APPRECIATION LUNCHEON

JANUARY 19, 2012

 

AWARD WINNERS  CHERYL MUSTO, CINDY GAERKE, RANDY

FISHER, DIRECTOR; KECIA SCHMERGE, RICH SPENCER,

JUSTIN WAID, REX KATTERHEINRICH, PAUL GOSSARD, DAVE

VOISARD, STEVE WALTER, BOARD PRESIDENT

 

REX KATTERHEINRICH, VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

 

RANDY FISHER, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

 

STEVE WALTER, BOARD PRESIDENT

 

 

SPECIAL NEWS RELEASE

DOCUMENTARY "ABSENT"

CELINA HIGH SCHOOL AUDITORIUM

JANUARY 17, 2012

 

 

LANDON ENTERTAINMENT BEFORE SHOWING

 

 

TED GOODWIN AND JUSTIN HUNT

 

MEMBERS OF MERCER DADS TEAM

 

SPECIAL NEWS RELEASE

GRAND LAKE ST. MARYS PROJECT REPORT

WSU LAKE CAMPUS DICKE HALL

JANUARY 18, 2012

 

JIM ZEHRINGER, DIRECTOR OHIO DEPARTMENT

OF NATURAL RESOURCES

 

SCOTT NALLY, DIRECTOR OHIO EPA

 

DR. TONY FORSHEY, INTERIM DIRECTOR ODA

 

KEVIN ELDER, OHIO DEPARTMENT OF

AGRICULTURE

 

MILT MILLER LAKE RESTORATION COMMISSION

 

BRIAN MILLER, DIRECTOR GRAND LAKE ST. MARYS

PARK DIVISION

 

JIM KELLER, MCDO DIRECTOR

 

JARED EBBING, MERCER COUNTY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

 

LINDA MAY, REALTOR

 

DR. TOM KNAPKE, DIRECTOR LAKE RESTORATION

COMMISSION

 

 

 

NEWS UPDATE FOR JANUARY 16, 2012

 

COUNTY BUDGET IMPROVES FOR 2012

 

            In an interview for the media, Commissioner Bob Nuding explained how the 2012 budget is improving. He said that in regards to questions about how cuts from the state affect the local budget he said, “We have to look at the big picture.  Yes, the State cut us, and we anticipated back in last June, and we plan accordingly.  But the key in this whole process is we look at total revenue, total expenses, and two or three things happened.

            Number one, our expenses were down, which I think is accredited to our employees and other elected officials, and other appointed officials.  Efficiency of government is important.Number two, with our expenses down, our revenue was slightly up because our sales tax income was up was up a little more than we anticipated.  The two  sort of offset.  Then our carryover was a little larger than we anticipated.  All of that together in the big picture we ended up reducing our budget by 3% for the calendar 2012.

You take that 3% with a larger carryover with increased revenue from the sales tax, factor all things in and we are better off than we have been in the last 2 and ½-three years.  It’s just that simple,  It’s a matter of putting all the pieces of the puzzle together and making it work.”

            General Fund Appropropriations for 2012 are $9,046,165.35 versus $9,304,363.00 for 2011 which is $258, 197.65 less.  Total appropriations for 2012 are $48.632 million which includes $39.586 million special accounts.

 

 

Mercer County LEPC

MEETING MINUTES

 

Date:  January 12, 2012

 

LEPC Members Present:  Jerry Laffin, Kent Hinton, Mike Robbins, Monte Diegel,  Steve Beougher, Ivan Knapp, Karen Howick, Deb Hemmelgarn, Brent Vogel, Doug Wolters, Joyce Jansen, Chad Willrath, Mike Sudman, Melissa Fent, Mike Wolfe, Jan Tindall, Mike Borns, Amy Joseph and Deb Scheer

 

 

Jerry Laffin opened the meeting and welcomed all those in attendance. Jerry welcomed Amy Joseph, Rockford Mayor, and Mike Wolfe, Crown, as the newest members of the LEPC. Introductions were made. The minutes from the October 13, 2011 meeting were distributed. Kent Hinton made a motion to approve the minutes with Ivan Knapp making a motion to second. Motion carried.

 

Old Business:

·HazMat Plan – We have received the concurrence form the State for the updated HazMat Plan. Copies will be distributed to those designated in plan.

 

New Business:

·Mike Borns made a motion to approve the LEPC / EMA Service Contract for $15,000.00. Kent Hinton second the motion. Motion Carried. 

·tier II Reporting reminder letters will be going out in February.

·Mike Robbins said that we will be conducting an EOC Functional Exercise on April 21, 2012 from 8:00 am – 12:00 pm in the Central Services Building. We will be using a contractor to facilitate the exercise this time using HMEP grant dollars. 

 

OTHER:

·Mercer Health will be conducting an exercise on April 18, 2012. They will be evacuating  patients (on paper) to their “Buddy Hospital”, Van Wert.

 

Citizens Corp / Medical Reserve Corps:

·Deb Scheer, MRC Coordinator, gave a brief report on the MRC

 

 

The meeting was adjourned. 

The next meeting will be held Thursday, April 12, 2012

7:30 AM at the Central Services Building

(2nd floor conference room). Breakfast will be served.

 

Respectfully submitted, Sheryle Kuhn

 

 

ROCKFORD CHAMBER MINUTES

FOR DECEMBER 8, 2012

 

 

The meeting was held at the library basement at noon on December 8th,
 2011.
 The meeting luncheon was catered by Angie Dietrich.
 There was 18 members present.
 
 The meeting was called to order by President Bryan Sutton.
 Pastor Marvin Schwartz from New Horizons Church led us in prayer.
 President Sutton extended his thanks for all the events throughout the
 year and to those who supported the Chamber in those events and the
 planning and to the officers for their input and hard work.

 Old Business:
 Winterfest at the Park was held on Saturday. The event had such items as
 free entertainment, horse drawn carriage rides which was sponsored by the
 Eagles, there was vendors, and the community building along with the Park
 was beautifully decorated by Brenda Barker and the Village employees -
 special thanks to them for hanging the lights for the Chamber and the
 Committee etc. Rob Hoehammer and a group from New Horizons community
 church handled the kitchen and food preparation etc.
 
 The money raised from this event is to support many things such as the
 Chamber Scholarship, along with the sponsorship of the Costume event at
 the Fire house during Halloween, and we also sponsor a child to the
 Washington DC trip with these funds along with the FBLA and their annual
 convention trip, we purchased flags for the downtown last year and also
 lights for the downtown and trees at the park. So, this event plays a big
 role in the Chamber's ability to be able to fund and do the many items
 which we donate to each year in our community.
 
 Total money received is $1,701.00 to date, however there are still
 expenses to be taken out of that amount per Treasurer.
 
 Treasurer's Report - we had some expenses which were the luncheon for the
 class at the school who helped with the Combined Charities Drive - $30.25
 and then in the areas of income - we have sold around $1,700 in Chamber
 Gift Certificates.
 
 New Business - we discussed the New Chamber Logo and that we need that to
 be sent to Brandit Design to have it put on our Website - Again thanks to
 Mr. Browning's class for developing that LOGO for us it was a great
 project for the kids and we appreciate them greatly for their help.
 
 We also asked Ivan Knapp to provide articles and pictures to Brandit
 Design so they can put our stories on the website for the 2011 Business
 and Citizen of the Year.
 
 ARTS In the Park - again they are looking for donations and this year
 their goal is $4,000.00. Last year they contacted 137 to help with the
 cost. We had the 3rd largest attendance for the event and for this being
 our first year that was incredible. The money that was not used from last
 year was carried over to this year, there will be over 200 programs go out
 and we will be listed in all those programs. Bob Maurer made motion that
 we donate to this again, 2nd by Jane Cozad - approved by all.

 With no further business we adjoured the meeting and the next meeting will
 be held on January 12th 2012, at 7:30am.

 

            Volunteers Needed to Help Measure Rain and Predict Floods

The Community Collaborative Rain, Hail & Snow Network (CoCoRaHS) is set to begin a major recruitment and expansion drive into Mercer and Auglaize counties. This extremely valuable community-based network incorporates training and education on tracking rain and snowfall. Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are invited to take part in monitoring Ohio’s precipitation. The project’s website at www.cocorahs.org provides information on the project and free access to the data collected.

CoCoRaHS began in Ohio during February 2009 and now boasts more than 227 observers from all parts of the Buckeye State.  With 2011 bringing new state rainfall records to Ohio, the CoCoRaHS network has been a valuable asset in monitoring Ohio precipitation and climate. With Ohio CoCoRaHS continuing to grow, scores of residents statewide have found that measuring precipitation is a rewarding and beneficial undertaking.

Recent repeated flood events during 2011 have highlighted the importance of having a dense network of well-trained rainfall and snowfall observers in the Auglaize and St. Mary’s river valleys. While there have been some observing stations in the area, there is currently no method for measuring water content in the snowpack, which was a cause of the February 28, 2011 flash flood.  The efforts to monitor flood potential in the area will be greatly enhanced by adding enthusiastic and well trained volunteers.

In support of this expansion effort, the state and regional CoCoRaHS coordinators from the National Weather Service will hold a training session on Thursday, January 26, 2012 at 6:30 PM at the Dicke Hall of the Wright State Lake Campus in Celina. The hands-on session, lasting around one hour, will teach observers how to accurately set up and read the standard CoCoRaHS rain gauges and report the data.

Attendance at the January 26th session is free, and open to any interested resident of Ohio. Volunteers should contact Julie Reed or Ashley Novak at the National Weather Service in Wilmington.

CoCoRaHS began in 1998 in Colorado in response to flooding in Ft. Collins that claimed 5 lives and caused over $100 million in damage. The network now encompasses all 50 states and is expanding into Canada. The Ohio project represents a cooperative effort between the National Weather Service and the State Climatologist at Ohio State University.

Contacts-

            Julie Reed, National Weather Service Wilmington julia.dian-reed@noaa.gov 

Ashley Novak, National Weather Service Wilmington ashley.novak@noaa.gov

 

 

CELINA POLICE MAKE HEROIN ARRESTS

 

 

Formal charges have been filed against a Celina couple in connection with search warrants that were served on a Celina residence on Wednesday, January 11, 2012, James R. Baker (05-16-81) was charged with Possession of Drugs, (heroin), (F-3).  Baker was taken into custody as he was returning to his home at Lot #19, 537 Touvelle Street, Wednesday afternoon.  A canine check of the vehicle he was driving led to the confiscation of heroin with an estimated street value of $1400.  Kristin D. Heath (02-04-88), who lives with Baker, is facing charges in connection with the sale of heroin during a controlled drug buy that had previously taken place.  She was charged with Trafficking in Drugs, (heroin), (F-5)

While the short term Celina Police Department investigation fell together this week, intelligence information gathered and maintained by the Grand Lake Drug Task Force was key to allowing officers to address their leads quickly.  Oftentimes investigations of this nature take months to develop and produce felony arrests similar to those faced by Baker and Heath.  The combination of rapidly developing information through the Celina Police Department and long-term intelligence information from the Grand Lake Drug Task Force supported the investigation and search warrants that led to quick arrests.  The heroin seized on Wednesday is estimated to total just under 8 grams.  This is a significant amount of drugs to remove at the street distribution level in the Celina-Mercer County area.

 

MCDO MINUTES FOR JANUARY 10, 2012

 

 

President, Jim Keller called the January meeting of The Marion Community Development Organization to order by reciting The Pledge of Allegiance. The meeting was held on January 10, 2012, at 7:00 p.m. at the Marion Township Building. Minutes were approved as read.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

HEALTH & EDUCATION COMMITTEE

Committee Chairperson – Jennifer Bills

Here are the upcoming health events:

2/1/12: St. Henry Library 1-3pm: $2.00 total cholesterol check (no fasting required). Free blood pressure checks.

2/2/12: Chickasaw Library 1-3pm: $2.00 total cholesterol check (no fasting required) Free blood pressure checks.

2/3/12: Celina Wal-Mart 10-12: $2.00 total cholesterol check (no fasting required). Blood pressure checks free.

2/8/12: Mercer County senior citizen center: $2.00 total cholesterol check (no fasting required). Blood pressure checks free.

Diabetic support group meeting at Mercer Health hospital, meeting room 2 @ 6pm. This is taught by Karen Homan, a registered dietician, who is a local native. This class is free and no registration is required.

Mark your calendars for the next blood drive in Maria Stein sponsored by the Red Cross: March 12 from 12pm-6pm at the legion.

 

MEMBERSHIP AND PROMOTION COMMITTEE

Committee Chairperson – Bill Winner

2012 Memberships Due Now

Thank you to those of you who sent in your 2012 Memberships. We are collecting Memberships for 2012 at this time. If you would like to pay your 2012 membership, please forward payment with the Membership Form on the back of the minutes. As always, thank you for your support to the MCDO. If you are uncertain about your membership status, please contact Bill Winner (419) 925-4175 or Barb Kahlig (419) 925-6301 or email to mcdo@bright.net and I'll be glad to check our records.

 

AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

Committee Chairperson – Mark Hardesty

The Booster long range planning committee continues to meet and aggressively explore ideas for creating an excellent Ag program at ML. They report their progress at the regular monthly meetings which are on the third Monday of each month at 8pm in the Ag classroom at the high school. All are invited. The Boosters are also discussing the funding of technical classroom enhancements such as laptops. The Boosters want to publicly thank Pfizer Pharmaceuticals for the significant contributions they have made to the program. Our local Veterinarian Clinics have played a significant role in these donations so a big thanks to them also. The Boosters are hosting a speaker in February. Press release for this event is as follows: “Farmers in the Grand Lake St. Marys watershed are receiving significant negative press generated by the distressed condition of the lake. Find out how we can address this issue. Hinda Mitchell, farm advocate, will be speaking at the Maria Stein American Legion Hall on Tuesday February 7, 2012 at 7:30pm. Hinda is best known across Ohio for her work on the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board. A dynamic speaker, she will share ideas with our farm community regarding steps they can take to effectively promote a positive image about farming. Hosted by the Marion Local Ag Ed Boosters.”

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Our January Business Luncheon will actually be February 1. Mike Overman, Superintendent of Cheryl Ann Programs will be our guest speaker. He will inform us about all Cheryl Ann Programs with emphasis on the Adult Services and Vocational Programs. The 1 hour program beginning at 12 noon at the township building will include a hearty beef vegetable soup with a deli ham or turkey sandwich and a beverage for a $5 donation. Please RSVP by January 27, to Jim Keller (419) 925-4764 or Barb Kahlig (419) 925-6301.

NEW BUSINESS:

The Annual Community Address will be held on April 15, 2012. We are putting plans in place for a speaker at this time.

On Wednesday January 11, 2012 the MCDO is hosting a meeting with The Ohio Department of Natural resources, the Ohio EPA, Ohio Recycling in Chickasaw and the Mercer County Solid Waste District. The meeting is being held to develop clarity concerning who should handle certain recyclables in the county. The group will discuss the Solid Waste Plan and the contract between Mercer County and Ohio Recycling.

RECREATION COMMITTEE

Committee Chairperson – Jason Winner

The weekly winners of the 301 Club are as follows:

December 18; Dave & Jenny Albers December 25: John & Linda Huelsman

January 1: Jim & Linda Schwieterman January 8: Gary & Carol Hartings

Maria Stein Sewer/ Hometown Cable Update

Each month additional residences complete their hook-ups. Unless the winter gets really nasty, everyone in the community with sewer service should be tied in by late spring, early summer.

The December update concerning Hometown Cable’s progress was slightly in error. They have all state permits to string their cable on Midwest Electric’s poles. These permits will cover from St. Henry east to close to SR 127. From that point east to Maria Stein, the area is serviced by DP&L and Hometown will be required to bury their cable. The permits for this portion have not been issued but Jeremy Krieg our contact at Hometown does not see this as an issue. Jeremy also advised that they have all the required fiber optic cable in their warehouse and will be installing what they can as weather allows. He further advised that each residence in the Hometown service area will be assigned an individual fiber (about the size a human hair) to carry their unique signals. This provides for exceptionally fast, clean service to the user. We’ll keep the community apprised of their progress.

VILLAGE, TOWNSHIP AND SCHOOL REPORTS

Chickasaw – No village report this month

Chickasaw Park Board Report – For information on renting the park shelters, call Sandy Niekamp at 925-4960.

Osgood – The council is working with North Star and Yorkshire to form an intergovernmental agency to oversee the sewage treatment facility. With completion of the SR 705 improvements, the council is considering purchasing banners which could be displayed along the highway at various times of the year to celebrate holidays such as Christmas and the Fourth of July.

Osgood Park Board Report – For information on renting the park shelters, call Alan Wendel at 419-582-4502.

Marion Township – With the dramatic reduction in revenues the last few years, the Township is pursuing ways to fund activities such as the support it has traditionally provided to the Township Park.

Marion Township Park Board – For information or concerns about the park, call Ron Hartings at 925-4804.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:00pm, with a motion from Bob Unrast, seconded by Don Rosenbeck. The next meeting of the MCDO is scheduled for Tuesday, February 14, 2012, at 7:00p.m at the Marion Township Building.

Submitted by: Jim Keller, President

 

 

Grant Money Benefits Red Cross Disaster Volunteers

SYLVIA HUX, GLENN HUX, JUDY WILSON, CINDY OSWALT

 

The American Red Cross of Mercer County is pleased to announce that they have received grant money from the Mercer County Civic Foundation and Midwest Electric to be used for the purchase of coats for active members of the Disaster Action Team (DAT).

 

This group of dedicated disaster volunteers is grouped into four teams who take turns being on-call. The DAT members respond to the scene of disasters when requested at any time of day or night. When local families are affected by a disaster including home fires, the DAT members are there beside the family to support them while providing comfort, hope, a teddy bear, a warm meal and a safe place to stay.

 

Thanks to an anonymous donor making an additional donation for the coats to have the Red Cross logo and additional reflective material put on the coats.

 

“The safety of our Red Cross volunteers is a priority” Stated Deb Hemmelgarn, Executive Director of the Red Cross of Mercer County.  “The coats will make the volunteers easy to be identified by other emergency personnel, visible to the victims of the disaster and with the reflective material; the volunteers will be safer while volunteering their time to help others.”

 

The Red Cross would like to extend our appreciation to the anonymous donor, the Mercer County Civic Foundation and Midwest Electric for their donation and continued support.

 

DAT members were presented with the jackets at the Disaster Meeting that was held on January 10th at the Red Cross office.

 

To learn how you can help the Red Cross by a financial donation or to volunteer for the DAT team, please contact the Red Cross office at 419-586-2201 or by email at redcross@bright.net

 

 

** Pictured from left to right are a few of the DAT volunteers after receiving their Red Cross Disaster Services coat -Sylvia Hux, Glenn Hux, Judy Wilson and Cindy Oswalt.

 

 

Mercer Dads Presents Director Justin Hunt and the movie “Absent” 

 

 

Celina, Ohio - Mercer Dads will present “Absent”, taking place at the Celina Fieldhouse, located at 585 E. Livingston St. Celina, Ohio 45822 on January 17 at 7pm, and featuring Director Justin Hunt.

 

Mercer Dads is proud to bring “Absent” and Director Justin Hunt to the Celina Fieldhouse for the first time to address the fatherless society and the impact it has on our community. “Absent” explores the devastating impact of disengaged fathers not only here in America, but around the globe. From prostitutes working the streets to one of the world's biggest rock stars, “Absent” lifts the veil on the damage being done by fathers who just aren't there. Featuring Metallica front man James Hetfield, World Champion Boxer Johnny Tapia and Best Selling author John Eldredge just to name a few, ‘Absent” will leave you understanding that “one man makes a world of difference.”

 

Tickets can be purchased for $10.00 each at Kozy Marina and the Celina Area Chamber of Commerce, starting December 1. Please check www.mercerdads.org for other ticket locations.

Also available online at www.absentmovie.com

 

What’s being said about “Absent,” “The father wound is so deep and so all-pervasive in so many parts of the world that its healing could well be the most radical social reform conceivable.” – FR. Richard Roh

 

“I just finished watching Absent (Documentary) and it was one of the best film’s I have ever seen in my life! Justin Hunt, you did an excellent job! If you guys haven’t seen it yet, you better go see it! You won’t regret it! That film was beyond inspiring!” - Attendee of  “Absent”

 

Director Justin Hunt will be available for a Question and Answer session after the movie. Come learn, take part, and be a part of making a difference in our community.

 

If you would like more information on Mercer Dads, you can contact Ted Goodwin at 419-305-0347, email mercerdads@gmail.com, or visit Mercer Dads on the web at www.mercerdads.org. Director Justin Hunt can reached at 505.330.4756, email juhu@live.com , or visit www.absentmovie.com .

 

 

PARKWAY BACKPACK SLINGS

 

 

The Rockford Community Days Committee is selling Parkway Panther backpack slings. ONLY $5.00 each. Get yours today by contacting Amy Joseph or Lisa at the Village hall - 419-363-3032 or by contacting any community days committee member. Thank you for your support!

 

 

Wright State Police Department Announces New Hire at Lake Campus
Officer Tyler Pottkotter to take post January 23

 

CELINA, Ohio – Wright State University (WSU) Police Chief and Assistant Vice President Michael Martinsen announced today that Tyler Pottkotter, Celina native and WSU alumnus, has been named to the WSU Police force. Pottkotter will be stationed full-time at the Lake Campus.

Pottkotter’s hiring brings to close an important search for Bonnie Mathies, Ph.D., Lake Campus Dean. In her tenure as Dean and particularly with the opening of the new residential complex, Mathies has emphasized the need for a full-time officer and welcomed the opportunity to work with Chief Martinsen to bring a police presence to the Lake Campus.

“We are thrilled that Tyler will be connecting our two campuses to provide a safer environment for our students,” said Mathies. “His knowledge of the Lake Campus, as a student and a student employee, combined with the resources that Chief Martinsen and his department can provide, will absolutely provide a better, safer experience at the Lake.”

Pottkotter has served as a student employee as Student Information Specialist/Security Officer for the past 4 years. Academically, he has completed two associate degrees, a first in Technical Studies with a Law Enforcement Option and a second in Sociology, both with High Honors. He is also a graduate of the Grand Lake Law Enforcement Academy, and will receive a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice at the end of this winter quarter. He also serves as a reserve officer with the Mercer County Sheriff Department.

Pottkotter will train with the WSU Police Department for approximately 8 weeks before assuming his duties at the Lake Campus, which will include responsibilities such as safety patrols, policy enforcement, crime prevention, event staffing and more.

 

 

NEWS UPDATE FOR JANUARY 12, 2012

 

New Rehab Unit Coming To Mercer Health

 

 

                Construction is now underway at Mercer County Community Hospital for the expansion of their Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Center.

            The new Center will be located in an area of the hospital previously utilized by a non-patient care department on the west side of the main hospital.

Nancy Mescher, Cardiopulmonary Services Director at Mercer Health, says, “This is a great improvement due to both a tripling of exercise space along with floor to ceiling windows lining the entire west wall of the Center. The new area is planned to be completed in late February or early March, 2012.”

            Mescher is very pleased with the change in location. She says, “We are excited to have the opportunity to move such a desirable area within the hospital. Rehabilitation for patients with cardiac as well as respiratory disease is as much emotional as it is physical, and the additional equipment and improved surroundings make this a great space and a more uplifting environment.”

            In addition to the change in location, the Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Department will feature additional equipment including commercial grade treadmills as well as recumbent bikes and steppers. Mescher says, “We will also have additional televisions that we can use for both educational and entertainment purposes for our patients while they are exercising.”

            Safety is a major focus of the new area. Mescher explains. “We will have a six channel telemetry system that we can use to monitor vital signs of those patients who require monitoring during exercise which is essential to any cardiopulmonary rehabilitation center.”

            To help with the financing of this project, the Medical, Educational and Development (MED) Foundation has begun a fund raising campaign. John Hoying, Development Director, states, “Our goal is to raise $75,000. This will pay for new equipment being purchased in the expansion.”

            Persons wishing to make a contribution can contact Hoying at 419-678-5679. Contributions can also be made through the hospital website by going to www.mercer-health.com and clicking on the MED Foundation icon.

            The Mercer Health Cardiopulmonary Program was the first in the area to receive national certification. They provide a phased program to improve the quality of life for those with heart and respiratory disease.

 

 

Local youth could compete for $30,000 in scholarships through Midwest Electric and Ohio’s Touchstone Energy cooperatives

 

MIDWEST ELECTRIC OFFERS SCHOLARSHIPS

 

West Central Ohio high school seniors could be eligible for college scholarships from Midwest Electric and the Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives (OREC).

Midwest Electric has two scholarship programs - a general scholarship for students with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5; and the Touchstone Energy Achievement Scholarship for students with at least a 2.75 GPA and who have overcome adversity or personal challenges in pursuit of their goals.

For the general scholarship, six student finalists will compete for $4,500 in scholarships from Midwest Electric. Three boys and three girls will vie for two $1,000 scholarships, two $750 and two $500 awards.

The top boy and girl finalists will represent Midwest Electric in the OREC competition in Columbus where they will compete against students representing other Ohio electric cooperatives. OREC awards 14 scholarships totaling $24,800.

For the Touchstone Energy Achievement Scholarship, Midwest Electric will award one $1,000 winner, and OREC will give four $1,700 awards.

To be eligible for the 2012 scholarship programs, applicants must be graduating seniors who have all the basic credits for college, vocational or technical school entrance. Applicants must be a child or legal ward of a Midwest Electric member.

Other provisions apply. Contact your high school guidance counselor or Midwest Electric for more information or an application.

Completed applications are due at Midwest Electric by January 20, 2012. For an application form, students may visit www.midwestrec.com and click on the My Community page for the scholarship link. Or, call Kecia Schmerge at Midwest Electric, 1-800-962-3830, or e-mail kschmerge@midwestrec.com.

Based in St. Marys, Midwest Electric is the customer-owned electric cooperative for 10,500 homes, farms and businesses in Allen, Auglaize, Mercer, VanWert, Shelby, Putnam and Darke counties.

 

Matt Berry

Manager, Customer Service

Midwest Electric

06029 County Road 33A

St. Marys, OH 45885

1-800-962-3830

 

D.A.R.E. BOOSTES JANUARY 6, 2012 MINUTES

 

The Mercer County D.A.R.E. Boosters met Friday, January,6. Those present were Nancy Heppeard, Matt Ronan, Ken Taylor and Sue Miller. The treasurer and secretary reports were approved . Matt explained he is filling in as the Gateway representative and will be introducing the new person at the next meeting. He also gave a brief update on STAR 2012 to be held Sunday, February 19.

Nancy reported she and Vennila are working on the Senior Luncheon. The date is not yet confirmed but contacts have been made, and letters have been sent out to the schools.

Sue reported The Speed Cup Stacking contest will held April Saturday,14 at St Henry. Gina agreed to send out the information to the schools.

Sue also discussed the Quarter Auction as a fund raiser. Nancy, Mary and Sue will meet with Jodie Lange to get more information and assistance with the details. Sue requested the Boosters purchase footballs and Frisbees for DARE Day at the Fair, to be used for the contests and prizes. She will check on prices. The meeting was adjourned. The February meeting will be Friday the 3rd

 

 

Concerts at Rockford Belle to Take Listeners Down Memory Lane on January 14

                                                      


Forget about your troubles and take a trip down memory lane at The Rockford Belle on January 14, 2012 as local bands “Triad” and “Blind Date” deliver performances reminiscent of bygone years with their expansive range of music. Concert starts at 7pm with doors open at 6pm. Parkway High School Chamber Choir will open for the event with their annual appearance and angelic voices. A free-will offering is accepted. The public is invited to attend the entertainment venue at 135 Market Street, Rockford, OH.

More about Parkway High School Chamber Choir: For the third time in the history of the choir, the Parkway High School Chamber Choir will take to the stage at The Belle and open the show. The auditioned members, directed by Shannon Wagner, sing complex music, ranging from Madrigals to Spirituals to pop vocal arrangements. They are eager to perform and welcome opportunities to entertain at other local and not so local events and venues.

More about “Triad”: “Triad” band adds depth to the evening’s lineup and features players Mike Bruns, Dan Shoen, and Kent Krogman. The trio resides in Mercer County and is well- known to the area; listeners can relax to the style they have come to know and depend on with this group- Classic music by Jim Croce, James Taylor, and the Doors. Their range includes a variety of religious, patriotic, and folk songs.

 

                                                        

More about “Blind Date”: Re-live the experience of 60’s/70’s music when “Blind Date” revs up the night with featured five-piece band members Dan Schoen, Rick Temple, Adam Andrews, Mike Bruns, and Kent Krogman. Band members have been around! They have the experience to take you back to a time when the greatest bands made music; a time of music that offered songs you could sing along with, and dance to, and music you fell in love with. The Belle welcomes the band back and invites all listeners who have enjoyed “Blind Date” outdoor performances during the annual Sock Hop & Cruise-In in August.

Mark your calendars for a night of pure delight when The Rockford Belle brings top-notch entertainment for all to enjoy in a beautiful setting that is warm and friendly! For more information call Tom Rogers at 567-644-9993.

 

 

SINGING HOOSIERS TO PERFORM

 

 

Tickets are $15/adults and $10/students available at Western Ohio True Value Hardware in Minster, Ohio. Need more info or for group rates phone 419-733-0252. Look for us at www.facebook.com/LockOneCommunityArts.

The Singing Hoosiers have entertained millions in 18 states and more than 26 countries, including Europe, Australia, the Far East, and the Caribbean. Plus, have appeared with such legendary entertainers as Bob Hope, Alan Sherman, Red Buttons, Tony Bennett, and Duke Ellington. Music director for the Singing Hoosiers is Dr. Michael Schwartzkopf.

Teen Vocal Workshop : Prior to their performance Jan. 29th, the Indiana Singing Hoosiers will present a vocal and performance workshop for area teens. Teen workshop participants will perform with the Singing Hoosier at the closing of their afternoon performance. All area choirs and individuals are invited. Cost is $10 which includes a seat for the 4PM performance. Spread the word to your favorite young talent or choir director. Contact Lock One Community Arts to register for the workshop, 419-733-0252.

 

 

Fort Recovery Local Schools Board of Education Meeting Summary

January 10, 2012

 

Organizational Meeting

Meeting called to order by Pres. Pro Tem Dave Hull.

***

Agenda Actions

1 & 2. Results of Election of Officers: Board President –Dave Hull, Vice-President – Ginny Fortkamp.

3. Bond for the President of BOE was set in the amount of $50,000.00.

4. Set time & day of 2012 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. 20, 2012.

5.  Appointed Ginny Fortkamp as the 2012 OSBA Legislative Liaison and Dan Kahlig as the Alternate Legislative Liaison.

6. Appointed Amy Bihn as the 2012 Student Achievement Liaison.

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

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

9. Authorized the Superintendent to attend such meetings as she deems necessary.

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

11.  Approved Kim Grube as the public records officer for the Board of Education members who terms expire on 12/31/15.

 

***

Board Recognition

The Board recognized Alexis Schmitz and Ashley Homan for their National FCCLA Competitors Food Innovation project.  The Board also recognized Alison Koch and Nathan Fullenkamp for their participation in Honors Choir.  Also Ryan Gaerke, Gage Retz and Brian Bauer for their participation in Honors Band.

***

Administrative Reports

Mrs. Koch:

* Distributed a handout and updated the Board on tax rates and amounts.  Discussed the depository agreement with St. Henry Bank and reviewed appropriations. 

Mrs. Hein-Evers: 

* Reported on the new staffing at the Elementary office and library.

* Discussed the seminar for Ohio Teachers Evaluation System.

Mr. Triplett: 

*  Discussed the Middle School incentive program.

Mr. Hobbs:

*  Shared with the Board the new online classes for foreign  language with ACE Academy. 

*  Informed the Board on the Athletic participation in all the sports.

Mrs. Vaughn:

* Commended the Board members for their continued work on the behalf of the students of Fort Recovery.  January is Board of Education recognition month.  Board members will be recognized at the January 20, 2012, home basketball game.

 

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

*Reviewed the school committee list.

* Distributed the draft calendar for the 2012-13 school year.

* Discussed the Facility issues.

* Set a Records Commission meeting date for this summer with records destruction.

* Jeff Hobbs gave an overview on the Athletic Facility.

* Discussed the PLTW visit in January.

 

  ***

Consent Agenda

1. Approved minutes of prior December meeting.

2. Approved the monthly financial reports for December 2011and payment of bills as presented.

3. Approved advance draw on 2012 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 anonymous donations to the FCCLA for Adopt a Family Christmas gift.

7. Accepted and thanked The Fort Recovery Industries for their donation and an anonymous donation to the Show Choir.

8. Accepted and thanked Wright State University for their donation to the Student Teacher Mentor Program.

9.  Accepted and thanked The Fort Recovery Industries for their donations to the Elementary, Middle and High School Activity Fund.

10.  Accepted and thanked Meiring Poultry Farm for their donation to the Band. 

 

***

Agenda Action Items

1. Approved the Permanent Appropriations for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2012.

2.  Approved Lori Koch as the Fort Recovery Schools’ representative for the Mercre/Auglaze Benefit Trust.

3. Approved the Depository Agreement with St. Henry Bank for deposit of Public Funds to serve as a public depository during the period from Jan. 6, 2012- Jan. 6, 2014.

4. Executive session.

5. Employed Chad Miller as a Classified Substitute for the 2011-12 school year.

6. Employed Zachary Sudhoff as a Classified Substitute for the 2011-12 school year.

Addendum:

7.Approved the Resolution for the following trustees to serve a term of seven years without compensation on the Fort Recovery Public Library Board, pursuant to Ohio Revised Code 3375.15:  Eric Kaiser, Pamela Fullenkamp, Gerald Stammen, Marcia Staugler, Mary, Barman, Philip Bauer and Ruth Wuebker.

8.  Approved the Resolution for the Re-appointment of  Fort Recovery Library Trustee, Marcia Staugler, to serve a term of seven years without compensation on the Fort Recovery Public Library Board, pursuant to Ohio Revised Code 3375.15.

9. Meeting adjourned.

 

Mercer Dads Meeting Minutes

Jan 9, 2012

 

 

Attendance: Ted Goodwin, Judge Jeff Ingraham, Karla Kessler, Sandy Dieringer, Ray Kramer, Kathy Bohman, Matt Gilmore, & Matt Miller

 

 

Advertisement for Absent:   

§ Ted has contacted the following:

·    Evening Leader, Daily Standard, Paint the Town, WBCL, & WTGM.

§ Ted is having difficulty contacting K-94 to set up an interview.  Matt Gilmore and Matt Miller will look into contacting K-94 and setting an interview up.

§ Kathy Bohman has created a power point that she will be distributing to the local school districts this week to share with staff.  She will also be distributing the flyers to the local churches in the southern end of the county to be published in this weeks bulletin.

§ Ray Kramer will be distributing the Absent flyers in Wapak, Minster, & St Marys this week.

 

 

Ticket Sales for Absent:

§ Wayne St UMC is sending there lead team.

§ Mercer County Head Start has purchased 50 tickets to send staff and parents.

§ Foundations have currently sold 1 ticket and are willing to donate some to Head Start if needed for parents to attend.

§ Ted will be checking with Justin to see how many tickets where sold on line.

§ We need to encourage people to buy presale tickets rather than buying them that night.

§ Matt Miller will check with the local superintendents on Thursday to see how many the school districts have sold.

§ Matt Miller will contact the schools in Auglaize County and send them an electronic flyer to share with parents and staff.

§ Ted will contact JFS and have them contact Foster parents in the county.

§ Ted will contact Tracy Robinson and have him notify other Dad’s organization about this event.

§ There are some concerns about how many tickets have been sold.

 

                                Family Services Planning Committee

When: Tuesday, April 19, 2011 Correct Date: January 17, 2012

Time: 8:30 a.m.

WHERE: MERCER COUNTY CENTRAL SERVICES BUILDING, MAIN CONFERENCE ROOM - FIRST
FLOOR 220 W. Livingston Street, First Floor, Celina OH

AGENCY CONTACT: Terry Couts, Mercer County JFS (419-586-5106, ext. 521)
Debra Farrell, Sources - Chairperson (419-584-1550)

MEETING AGENDA:

I. NEW BUSINESS:

A. Approval of Minutes from Previous Meeting
B. Work Participation Rates
C. PRC Plan Updates

D. Absent Father Program

II. WORK UNIT REPORTS:

A. Social Services Report, R. Jason Cupp

B. Income Maintenance / PRC Report, Rosalie Moeller


Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting: Tuesday, April 17, 2012 at 8:30 a.m.

 

 

 

                                                            Bridge Inspection

 

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart announced recently that the yearly bridge inspections of Mercer County’s 406 bridges on township and county roads has been completed.  Engineer Wiechart and County Bridge Supervisor T.J. Smalley completed the inspections before the end of 2011.

 

            “Bridge inspection is completed annually for several very important reasons.  First our bridge maintenance/work orders are generated directly from our yearly inspections.  Secondly, decisions on future bridge replacements/rehabilitations are made as a result of the condition ratings garnered from the inspection.  Third and most importantly, we inspect them to protect the public that uses them each day.”  In Ohio, the professionally licensed and elected County Engineer manages and oversees bridge inspections on township and county roadways.  Any questions, concerns about bridges may be directed to the engineer’s office.

 

WAMPUM BELTS OF FAITH

 

 

Two 17th century beaded wampum belts made by Native Americans in New England for French Jesuit missionaries as expressions of Catholic faith have been shipped from a cathedral in France to a museum in Vermont where they are now on display.

Alexis Berthier, the spokesman for the Consulate General of France in Boston said the belts were given to the missionaries "as a sign of friendship" and that "they also signaled the conversion of some of these Native American people."

Here is some more detail from the Shelburne Museum, where the belts are on display until July 31:

"Wampum Belts from Chartres Cathedral Treasury showcases two rare masterpieces of Native American art on loan from the Bishop of Chartres and the Musee des Beaux-Arts de Chartres and on view in the United States for the first time. The belts will be on exhibit from July 2 through July 31.

'These belts are a symbol of the rich history of our region and demonstrate the historic connection between the French in North America and their relationship with the Abenaki and Huron peoples,' said Shelburne Museum Director Stephan Jost. 'The caliber of craftsmanship is truly extraordinary and reflects the sophistication of the people who created them.'

Wampum belts are traditional to native peoples from the Eastern woodlands and are an art form used to record important events such as engagements, marriage, funerals or treaties. The two belts on view at Shelburne were made in the 17th century. The Huron belt was made in 1678 and the Abenaki belt was made in 1691 or earlier. Noting the conversion to Catholicism by some of the native peoples, the belts were given to the French Jesuit order. The belts were taken to France and placed in the Cathedral Treasury of Chartres in acknowledgment of their importance."

Museum spokeswoman Leslie Wright tells me that the Latin on the belts "dates to the time of the druids, who predated the Jesuits at Chartres." She said the Huron belt, which is made of shell, glass, and natural fiber or animal hide, translates, "From the Hurons to the Virgin about to give birth,'' and the Abenaki belt, made of the same materials, translates, "To the Virgin Mother, Abenaki"

 

 

 

SPECIAL NEWS RELEASE

 

COLDWATER AWARDS

 

JANUARY 9, 2012

 

 

VERN STAMMEN, RETIRING MAYOR CONGRATULATES JOE KNAPSCHAEFER,

NEW MAYOR

 

VERN STAMMEN PRESENTS AWARD TO ROB FISHER

COUNCIL MEMBER 1988-1995, 2000-2011

 

 

TOM HOMAN JR. RECEIVES AWARD FOR COLDWATER

PLANNING COMMISSION, 2003-2011

 

ROBERT MILLER, PARKS DEPARTMENT, 1981-2011

 

DAVE HOMAN REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION

2003-2011

 

CHARLES FRONING, ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

1980-2011

 

Other award recipients not present for photos. Theresa Brunet,

Park Board, 2008-2011; Dean Schaller, Zoning Board of

Appeals, 1989-2011; Larry Wolf, Tree Commission, 2001-2011;

Ted Braun, Fire Department, 2001-2011; Aric Rutschilling,

Fire Department, 2006-2011.

 

 

SPECIAL NEWS RELEASE

4-H CAMP COUNSELOR RETREAT

MARIA STEIN SPIRITUAL CENTER

DECEMBER 27-28, 2011

 

 

4-H CAMP COUNSELOR PLANNING RETREAT

 

 

COUNSELORS WORKING ON PLANS FOR 2012 CAMP

 

 

GROUP ENJOYS FUN SQUARE DANCE

 

 

CRAIG MUHLENKAMP LEADS RECREATION ACTIVITIES

 

 

4-H CAMP COUNSELORS START PLANNING FOR SUMMER CAMP,

EVEN IF IT'S SIX MONTHS AWAY.  ANY MERCER COUNTY YOUTH

MAY ATTEND CAMP.  REGISTRATION MATERIALS WILL SOON

BE AVAILABLE (PROBABLY FEBRUARY) AND WILL BE DISTRIBUTED

TO 4-H MEMBERS AT CLUB MEETINGS.  NON 4-H STUDENTS MAY

 DOWNLOAD INFORMATION FROM OUR OFFICE AT

MERCER.OSU.EDU.

CAMP IS DESIGNED FOR YOUTH IN GRADES 3-7.  DATES WILL BE JUNE 5-8

OR JUNE 11-14, 2012.  CAMP IS HELD AT HARBOR POINT 4-H CAMP LOCATED

ON GRAND LAKE EAST OF CELINA, OHIO.

 

 

 

NEWS UPDATE FOR JANUARY 9, 2012

 

Lake Campus Agriculture Students Tour Costa Rica

 

 

Agriculture students from Wright State Lake Campus recently traveled to Costa Rica on their December break under the direction of Dr. Greg Homan, Associate Professor of Agriculture and Leadership.  According to Homan, “The goal of the trip was to provide a real-world opportunity for students to learn about global agricultural issues through personal experience.”   

 

                                                                      

A wide variety of activities and tours were built into the trip to not only showcase the agricultural commodities produced in Costa Rica, but also expose them to the broader culture of the area.  The most prominent agricultural export products from Costa Rica include pineapple, banana, and coffee.  A tour of the Corsicana Pineapple Plantation featured thousands of acres of pineapples in production with portions of their operation using organic methods.  The students learned that the United States is the largest market for Costa Rica pineapple and discussed methods Costa Rica producers are taking to produce pineapple sustainably to preserve soil fertility and maintain water quality.

 

                                                                                       

A tour of a “Dole Banana Farm and Processing Plant” and “Doka Coffee Estate” provided a valuable opportunity to see how these products are produced, processed, and prepared for shipment to the United States and other markets.  The export of these crops provides significant job opportunities for Costa Ricans.  Other commodities viewed in Costa Rica included papaya, plantains, rice, strawberries, and ornamental plants.  The students were surprised by the differences in agriculture between the United States and Costa Rica.  Lisa Gehret commented, “It opened up the way I look at agriculture both there and here in the US.  It was very fascinating to see that their agriculture system is very labor intensive and many farmers rely not on tractors and implements, but their own strength and a hoe or shovel to maintain their corps.  

                                                                                   

In addition to touring agriculture operations, students also explored the natural wonders of Costa Rica including several parks and rainforests, Arenal Volcano, Poaz Volcano, hot springs, and animal reserves.  Many of the students challenged themselves by traveling over the “hanging bridges” and gliding through the canopy tours within the rainforests of Costa Rica.  A boat tour of the rivers of Costa Rica featured cayman, various birds, and reptiles of the area.  A tour of the EARTH University showcased the educational efforts this international university in Costa Rica is undertaking to expand agricultural sustainability within Costa Rica and abroad. 

The trip provided a valuable learning experience for the students.  According to Lindsey Fortkamp, “Being able to experience agriculture production in another country was an unforgettable experience and something I could have never fully understood from a textbook. “

Participants included:  Lisa Gehret (Maria Stein), Kassie Pease (Celina), Kendra Pease (Celina), Jordan Hellwarth (Celina), Mitch Sudhoff (Coldwater), Lindsey Fortkamp (Coldwater), Jennifer Guggenbiller (Fort Recovery), Jan Kaas Fokker (Ohio City), Jeff Keller (Ansonia), and Randy Lamarr (Wapakoneta).

Submitted by

Dr. Greg Homan, Wright State Lake Campus

Cell:  419-852-4213

 

Mercer Health Diabetic Support Group To Meet

 

Mercer Health’s Diabetic Support Group will meet on Monday, January 9, 2012 at 2 p.m. At Mercer County Community Hospital, 800 West Main Street, Celina, in Meeting Room 2.

Karen Homan, RD, CDE, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator at the Mercer Health Diabetes Center, will be discussing “Getting Back on Track and Staying Motivated in 2012”.

For those unable to attend the January 9 program, it will be repeated on Tuesday, January 17, beginning at 6:00 PM in Meeting Room 2 at the hospital.

 There is no fee and, advance registration is not necessary.  Please call 419-586-9657 with questions.

 

 

FuseBusters to start 58th year

 

Area youth interested in energizing their creative juices are encouraged to join the Midwest Electric FuseBusters 4-H Club. The FuseBusters meet on Monday evenings, beginning February 6, from 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., at the Midwest Electric office, 06029 County Road 33A.

The club is open to youth from all area counties and meets nine consecutive Monday evenings, concluding with family night, April 2.

“FuseBusters is a fun way for youth to learn more about electricity and electronics, working hands-on to create their own projects,” said Dave Waltermire, energy advisor for Midwest Electric. The electric cooperative started the FuseBusters program in 1954.

FuseBusters members learn about electricity and how to use it safely. The levels of difficulty range from basics of electricity and magnetism to advanced electronics. Club members make electric or electronic projects and exhibit their projects at the County Fair. They also learn the basic meeting format and run their own meetings.

FuseBusters members typically place high at the County Fair, and many go to the State competition as well as nationals.

Any boy or girl, between the ages nine and 19, having not passed their 19th birthday as of January 1, 2012, is encouraged to join. Interested youngsters attending the first meeting will register, receive a meeting schedule, a project book and meet their advisor.

For more information, contact Midwest Electric at 419-394-4110.

 

CELINA POLICE REVIEW TRAFFIC STATS

 

 

 

The Celina Police Department has begun reviewing statistics from the 2011 calendar year.  Overall, traffic crashes were down, with an 8.1% decrease leading to a total of 351 reported crashes in 2011.  The 2010 traffic crash count was 382.  Traffic crash counts appear to be down at a state and national level also, with the economy considered to be a factor in that reduction.  However, within the City of Celina, there were some specific areas that showed increases in traffic crashes.  

            Construction projects also had an effect on traffic crashes.  While most of the downtown blocks of Main Street have shown reductions in traffic crashes during and after the construction periods, the 400 block of S. Main did show an increase to 4 crashes in 2011.  In reviewing these incidents it is apparent that the construction project played a direct role in this increase.  This is also the case in the 100 block of West Market Street and the 100 and 200 blocks of East Market Street, where construction detours increased traffic congestion.  

The most significant increase in traffic crashes at the intersection of SR 29 and Havemann Road, where Havemann crosses the 4-lane section of SR 29 East.  That intersection was the site of three times as many crashes in 2011 as in 2010.  Of the twelve traffic crashes reported in 2011, seven of them resulted in injuries.  This was a 700 percent increase from the single injury crash that occurred at that location in 2010.  That means that nearly 20% of the injury crashes in the City of Celina in 2011 occurred at the same intersection.  The speed of the vehicles involved in these crashes has a significant effect on the injuries that result. 

In response to the dramatic increase in that area the Celina Police will immediately begin a radar enforcement program on State Route 29 east.  While it is obvious that a traffic signal violation is involved in most of the traffic crashes at this intersection, the physical layout of the intersection makes that type of violation difficult to enforce.  By developing a speed enforcement program on the four-lane section of highway, officers will not only have an effect on the number of crashes, but also have a good chance of reducing the number of injuries from any crash that does occur.  Officers may not have time to perform speed checks each day, but radar enforcement will be addressed on at least weekly basis.  The posted 50 mph speed limit will be enforced for both eastbound and west bound traffic on State Route 29. 

Along with radar and laser speed enforcement the department will be working with the Celina Engineers Office on steps that could be taken to make the intersection safer.  This may include warning lights posted before the intersection or changes in the traffic light pattern.  Grant opportunities will be pursued to help fund engineering changes that area addressed.  The Celina Police Department will also use its speed trailer as an educational tool to insure that motorists realize the reduced speed limits that apply to highway once you enter the City of Celina. 

 

 

Author Martin Stewart to Address

Western Ohio Civil War Roundtable

 

“Redemption: The 71st Ohio Volunteer Infantry in the Civil War”

 

Western Ohio’s own Civil War military unit will be the subject of discussion when author Martin Stewart addresses the Western Ohio Civil War Roundtable on Thursday, January 26. The Western Ohio regiment, the 71st Ohio Volunteer Infantry, (about 800 men led by Colonel Rodney Mason and Lt. Col. Barton Kyle) was composed of recruits from Miami, Mercer, Auglaize, Montgomery, Hamilton and Clark Counties.

 

Meeting time is 7:15 PM in Room 186 Andrews Hall Wright State Lake Campus. The public is invited.

 

Stewart who is a noted lecturer sought by Civil War enthusiasts will be making his second speaking engagement before the Western Ohio CWRT. According to Mr. Stewart, a native of Miami Co. and descendant of four Union soldiers, the 71st Ohio embarked for Cincinnati by train three days after their flag presentation at Camp Tod on February 15, 1862.

 

The 71st OVI was part of General Sherman’s Army of the Tennessee. The green troops would quickly be initiated into the “sheer terror” of war in what would be called the Battle of Shiloh (April 6-7, 1862). Situated on the Union left flank the regiment was hit hard by Gen. Albert S. Johnston’s Confederate Army’s early morning surprise attack. The Buckeyes were forced back three times, with Col. Mason unaccounted for in the chaos and confusion in rough, wooded country and Lt. Col. Kyle killed. By the end of the day, General U. S. Grant’s army backed up towards Pittsburg Landing, the 71st would lose two men to battle deaths, along with 15 men missing.

Martin’s presentation will provide more information from his research on the history of the 71st OVI and the events that brought this regiment from the shame of Shiloh to one of prestige and Redemption.

 

CELINA POLICE REPORT ON TELEPHONE SCAM

 

The Celina Police Department has received information on a telephone solicitation scam that offers area residents a free cruise if you take a survey and give them a credit card number for the port fees.  This number actually goes to a telemarketing firm that has been involved in many different telemarketing offers involving telephone surveys about the debt crises.  The number involved is (310) 362-7319, and originates from California. 

            Calls such as this often involve scams and you should never respond by giving a credit card number or other personal identification information to a subject that calls you.  Reputable businesses understand the importance of keeping personal information secure and would not ask you to provide such information to them when they have called you.  Even when you initiate the call, do not provide personal or credit card information unless you are familiar with the number or business involved and can be assured that you are talking the proper company representative. 

 

 

STATELLINE WRITERS CLUB

 

 

 

 

High school student writing contest underway.

 

A single word can change you, your life and your attitude; what is that word and what changes did it make in your life? Your answer to this question could help you win an award certificate and possible first place of $100, second place of $50 or third place of $25. Also the first place winner’s entry will be submitted to local newspapers.

The Stateline Writers Club is sponsoring this high school student writing contest for students from all Auglaize and Mercer County schools. Entries must be submitted by February 29.

A team of judges will weed out the best of the entries which will then be presented to the entire membership for its input and final choices. Entries, just one submission per entrant, must be at least 500 words and no more than 800, and may be total fiction, or if true, names can be changed to protect privacy.

These entries must be submitted to committee members Ron Aragon or Kitti Tolles at 120 S. Walnut Street, New Bremen, OH 45869. Entrants are asked to place their full name, address and word count on the first page, to number and staple entry pages. A SASE should be enclosed if you want written acknowledgment that the entry was received. For a complete set of rules or more information, contact Tolles at wyndrider@nktelco.net or 419-953-6831.

The Stateline Writers Club also recently began a $100 book scholarship at the Lake Campus of Wright State University. In other activity, members enjoyed their annual Christmas party in December with a gift exchange and the reading of a short piece that related to the gift given.

Stateline Writers Club meetings are held the third Saturday of the month at 10 a.m. at the Celina/Mercer County Library. Meetings are not held in January or February and will resume on March 17. Interested persons are invited and encouraged to attend. For more information, contact Gretchen Bollenbacher at 419-363-2692 or fgboll@watchtv.net.

The contest committee urges all interested high school students in Auglaize and Mercer Counties to enter. This award can give your future resumes and college applications extra weight. Enter now!

 

 

2011 Sparked a Time for Renewal in Ohio

SENATOR KEITH FABER

 

Members of the Senate Majority helped in sparking job creation and economic growth

The past twelve months saw Ohio forge a new path toward economic expansion and growth. From the onset of the 129th General Assembly, Senate Republicans introduced a slate of policy proposals fixed on bringing real relief to the state's residents while also overhauling the way in which government operates. Thanks to a series of responsible and balanced reform measures, Ohio is beginning to realize many of the possibilities that lay ahead.

We knew from the start that job creation would need to be the centerpiece of any true and lasting recovery and that is what led to the groundbreaking JobsOhio initiative. Proposed by Governor Kasich, the private-public partnership to attract business and spark job creation received bipartisan support from the legislature and is already having an impact across the state. Thus far, the program has been involved in over 240 business projects and has allowed for more than 82,000 jobs to be either retained or created. In our area alone, JobsOhio has been responsible for 560 new jobs and has retained nearly 3,000 existing, at-risk positions.

In all, Ohio’s unemployment rate dropped from 9.6% to 8.5% in the past year and more than 45,000 new jobs took root throughout our state. Most importantly, 69,000 unemployed Ohioans from a year ago are now back at work and I look forward to seeing that number rise in the coming months.

In addition to growing our workforce, Ohio reopened its doors to business in 2011. Thanks to a number of innovative tax reforms, job creators are finding a welcomed home in Ohio. The InvestOhio program, which I helped to craft, encourages entrepreneurship statewide by offering a 10 percent tax credit to Ohioans who make a two-year investment in a small business with less than $50 million in assets or $10 million in sales. Also, a new job retention tax credit passed by the Senate in February is now available to companies that are being lured away by other states. Under the plan, companies who choose to stay in Ohio are able to apply for credits after agreeing to invest a minimum of $25 million in our state while also retaining at least 1,000 employees here.

Also underway is a renewed effort to ease the tax burden felt by so many of our families. The most recent state operating budget was highlighted by a series of measures aimed at putting more money in the pockets of hard-working Ohioans. Republican lawmakers approved more than $800 million in property tax relief for our residents, as well as a 4.2-percent income tax reduction that had previously been halted by the Strickland administration two years ago. Perhaps most significantly, the budget bill finally did away with the job-crushing estate tax that has been driving family-owned farms and businesses out of Ohio for four decades. I know that by freeing ourselves from the constraints of high taxes, the coming years will see local proprietors and families experiencing greater financial stability and more reliable security.

Any foundation for future prosperity would be incomplete without evaluating the way in which government operates. For too long, state government has been a bureaucratic mess that misuses your tax dollars and sometimes works against the best interests of our local communities. Senate Republicans recognized this problem and wasted no time in proposing bold initiatives geared toward creating a more efficient government. Last year saw the passage of legislation that will now require the state Auditor to conduct performance audits of various state agencies. The added oversight tool will help to ensure that public funds are being used in a manner that is both effective and worthwhile in handling interests of the state.

Comprehensive regulatory reform also became a reality in 2011. As chairman of the Regulatory Reform Task Force in 2008, I led a bipartisan panel in reviewing and evaluating the countless regulations that businesses must deal with in order to operate in our state. We found that Ohio’s regulatory landscape was saturated with duplicative rules, bureaucratic red tape, and too many wasteful processes that inhibited the ability for businesses to prosper. Our recommendations for reform have finally been enacted into law. I am pleased to report that these changes are already making a welcomed impact throughout our state and businesses now have the ability to operate more freely.

With every new year comes new opportunities, and my colleagues and I remain determined in building on the successes of 2011. Recovery is no simple task and a great deal of work remains at all levels of government. However, I am quite confident that bright days are ahead for Ohio and that 2012 will be a time of continuing progress.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office if you have questions or concerns about any of the matters we are considering at the Statehouse. I can be reached by phone at (614) 466-7584, by e-mail at SD12@senate.state.oh.us or by writing me at State Senator Keith Faber, Ohio Statehouse, 1 Capitol Square, Columbus, Ohio 43215. I look forward to hearing from you.

 

Senator Faber represents Ohio’s 12th Senate District which includes Allen, Champaign, Mercer, Preble, and Shelby Counties, as well as portions of Auglaize and Darke Counties. He currently serves as President Pro Tempore of the Ohio Senate.

Sam Rossi

 

 

GRAND LAKE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

 

 

Officer Reports

·        Keep handing out brochures, especially to get people to come to the fundraiser.

·        Keep looking for new members, our social events seem to be working.

·        Fundraising – Bowling fundraiser is set for March 24 at Coldwater Bowling Alley. A vote was made to keep the price per person to $25. It is our goal to get two teams per person from the executive committee. Need to start getting donations from area businesses.

·        Networking – It was decided we will keep trying to do a social event every other month since this seems to work to get more people to come.

·        Discover Celina Website – Brian received the form that needs to be filled out to get us on the website. He will fill out and get it back to the person in charge.

·        Lake Improvement Association is putting on a Beach Party on Feb 18 at Romer’s in Celina. They will be doing door prizes, raffles, 50/50, and silent auction. We voted and approved to donate at $50 Chamber gift Certificate for this benefit. All proceeds go toward saving Grand Lake.

·        Professional Development –Scott Frey will be our speaker for Jan 19 meeting. It will be held at WSU-LC Room #181.

·        Treasurer – $50 will be donated to the Beach Party so help save the lake. Current balance in our account is $898.88.

·        Secretary – A press release will be sent out to the local media outlets announcing that the meeting is Thursday, Jan 19 and Scott Frey will be the speaker. Marissa is working on getting a bio from him.

Old Business

·        Jayme Moorman informed the group that there are plenty of open dates available for 2012. She informed the group that she will contact the 6 schools in order to get a commitment on a specific date. Each school will hold their own event, and we are looking at 3 consecutive weeks with 2 school events each week. Jayme believes we should be able to get all of the school events completed with a 3 hours or a little more. Ben Amstutz from the Chamber has expressed some interest in helping us put this on.

New Business

·        Red Cross Mad Run will be held on May 19 at Ft. Recovery Ambassador Park. We will be volunteering to work some of the obstacles.

·        Elections will be held at our meeting in Feb. Be thinking about what position you would like to hold in the group.

·        Chris brought up an idea to send our brochures out to the St. Mary’s Chamber as they send out a weekly update to all Chamber members and can send this with it.

Next Meeting Dates

·        The next regular meeting will be on Jan 19 at WSU Lake Campus, Room #181. Scott Frey will be our speaker. Our meeting for Feb will be on the 16 at CJ’s in Celina. The first part of the meeting will be spent doing elections. We will hold a social event immediately following.

The next Executive meeting is Wednesday, Feb 1 at noon at J’s in Celina. Executive meeting in March will be held on the 7 at Beer Barrel in St. Marys.

 

 

 

 

 

NEWS UPDATE FOR JANUARY 6, 2011

 

Grand Lake St. Marys 2012 Partnership Progress Summit

 

The Lake Restoration Commission extends this invitation for you to attend the Grand Lake St. Marys 2012 Partnership Progress Summit, Wednesday, January 18, 2012, 10am to 1pm at Wright State University Lake Campus, Celina, Ohio. 

  

The agenda  includes reports from the Directors of  the Ohio departments of Natural Resources, Agriculture, EPA and Health, an overview from the LRC and a blueprint for progress in 2012. Lunch will be included.

 

The summit is a great opportunity to review the progress of the past year, but  more importantly to keep the momentum moving forward on implementing solutions designed to improve Grand Lake St. Marys. You are encouraged to share this invitation with colleagues who would be interested in learning about the successful progress made at Grand Lake St. Marys. For an accurate lunch count we ask that you please return your RSVP by January 13, 2012.  You can do so by sending your name and the number of attendees to SeeMore@Bright.net.  

  

We look forward to another year of positive progress and we look forward to seeing you at the Grand Lake St. Marys 2012 Partnership Progress Summit.

 

 

The Lake Restoration Commission

Tom Knapke , Facilitator

 

 

Grand Lake Area Insurance Professionals offering two scholarships


        The Grand Lake Area Insurance Professionals, which is the local association of the International Association of Insurance Professionals, is sponsoring two scholarships for the amounts of $1,000 and $500.  Any high school senior residing in or attending a school in either Auglaize or Mercer County is eligible to apply.  This scholarship is open to all majors.  
        The Grand Lake Area Insurance Professionals has joined Wright State University as part of the Western Ohio Education Foundation (WOEF).  If a scholarship winner attends Wright State University – Lake Campus, the university will match the scholarship amount (up to $500).  
        The winners will be determined on the basis of a written essay according to the topic indicated and a completed application form.  Please contact your school's Guidance Counselor for a copy of the application. The deadline for applying is February 1, 2012.  For more information, call Laura at 419-586-5181 ext 8246.  


Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thanks,
Laura
Grand Lake Area Insurance Professionals - Scholarship Chairperson

 

TRI STAR OPEN HOUSE

JANUARY 9, 2011

 

TRI STAR OPEN HOUSE

 

YOU’RE INVITED!

WHAT:  OPEN HOUSE

See the great career technical programs we offer!

WHEN:  Monday, January 9th from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m.

WHO:  Students (especially those in grades 8 – 11), parents, school staff and the public are invited.

WHERE:  Visit one or all locations in Celina, Montezuma, Coldwater, and St. Marys.    All classrooms will be open with teachers available.  Maps to each location can be found at the Tri Star website -  www.tristarcareercompact.com  - under the contact tab.

And PLEASE NOTE:

 Visit the Engineering Technology/CAD program in Celina

 College representatives from Rhodes State College and The University of Northwestern Ohio will be available at the St. Marys Dennings Building.

 For information about the programs we offer see the program catalog on the Tri Star website: www.tristarcareercompact.com

Questions?  Call the Tri Star office at 419-586-7060.

 

 

 

Ft. Recovery FFA Announces Top Fruit Sellers

JAMIESON HESS, JESSLICA KAISER, ALEX STAMMEN

FT. RECOVERY, OH - Recently, the Ft. Recovery FFA chapter completed its annual fruit sale selling over 700 cases of fruit.  Peanuts and fruit baskets were also sold.  The top three overall sellers were first, Alex Stammen, second, Jessica Kaiser, and third, Jamieson Hess.  The top sellers in each class were; 1st period, Emily Siegrist; 3rd period, Alex Stamen; 4th period, Taylor Guggenbiller; 5th period, Ray Siefring; 6th period, Derek Young; 7th period, Jessica Kaiser; and 8th period, Jamieson Hess.  The Ft. Recovery FFA Chapter would like to thank everyone that purchased and helped out with the fundraiser.

 

 

 

Ft. Recovery FFA Agriculture Communication Team Competes

JESSICA KAISER, ERIN BRACKMAN, ADAM FULLENKAMP

 

Ft. Recovery, OH - The Agriculture Communication team recently competed and placed forth in the district contest.  The junior team members were Eric Brackman, Adam Fullenkamp, and Jessica Kaiser. The team was tested over the communication industry and their editing skills.  They also prepared a presentation for a group of judges.  This project concentrated on 8th grade  recruitment. The Fort Recovery FFA Chapter would like to congratulate them on a job well done.

 

 

COLDWATER POLICE REPORT FOR DECEMBER, 2011  CHIEF RANDY WALTMIRE

 

 

 

December 2011

Year to Date

 

December 2011

Year to Date

 

 

 

CALLS FOR SERVICE

869

10282

REPORTS TAKEN

37

650

COMPLAINTS

168

1779

Accident

1

80

TRAFFIC

 

 

Administrative

0

9

Persons Cited

15

214

Alcohol

1

14

Traffic Charges

17

281

Assault

0

3

Warnings Issued

42

467

B&E /Burglary

4

14

Parking Tickets

0

0

Bad Checks

1

17

Miles Patrolled

5640

71209

Department Assists

12

158

ASSISTS

7

294

Domestic

2

24

Motorist Assists

2

96

Drug

3

27

Vehicle Unlocks

3

81

General

2

87

Squad Assists

1

100

Homicide

0

0

Fire Dept. Assists

1

13

Missing Persons

1

4

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

385

4319

Property Damage

1

19

Open Doors (businesses)

14

71

Recovery

1

27

Residential checks

137

924

Robbery

0

0

Bank Escorts

13

150

Sex Crime

0

7

Funeral Escorts

6

75

Theft

1

47

Mental Health Transports

0

5

Theft-Vehicle

0

5

Public Talks

1

13

Traffic

7

108

Alarms

8

91

DRUG   CHARGES

 

 

Other Special Details

91

1577

Drug Possession

2

31

Follow Up Investigations

115

1416

Drug Paraphernalia

2

30

CRIMINAL ARRESTS

 

 

 

 

 

Misdemeanor Arrests

14

173

 

 

 

Felony Arrest

0

17

 

DECEMBER 2011 ARREST RECAP:

 

 

12/04/11

18

Driving on a closed roadway

12/06/11

26

Expired Registration

12/07/11

33

No Operator License

12/07/11

32

Passing Bad Checks

12/08/11

43

No. Operator License

12/09/11

63

Expired Registration

12/09/11

49

Expired Operator license

12/09/11

32

Passing Bad Checks

12/11/11

16

Underage Consumption

12/09/11

60

Possess a Controlled Substance

12/09/11

60

Drug Paraphernalia

12/13/11

38

Expired Plates

12/12/11

24

Telephone Harassment

12/13/11

22

No O.L.

12/13/11

38

Allowing Another to Drive

12/15/11

24

Possession of a Controlled Substance

12/15/11

24

Drug Paraphernalia

12/17/11

19

Misuse of 911 System

12/17/11

18

OVI

12/17/11

18

BAC.133

12/17/11

18

Underage Consumption

12/18/11

25

NO OL

12/21/11

29

No O.L.

12/27/11

55

Expired Plates

12/07/11

25

Endangering Children – Abuse

12/09/11

20

Criminal Trespassing

12/09/11

20

Criminal Damaging

12/27/11

21

No Operator License

12/27/11

22

Wrongful Entrustment

12/30/11

31

Expired Plates

12/30/11

19

Possession of Marijuana (Less than 100 grams)

12/30/11

19

Drug Paraphernalia

 

Mercer County LEPC

MEETING MINUTES

 

Date:    October 13, 2011

 

LEPC Members Present:  Jerry Laffin, Kent Hinton, Sheryle Kuhn, Mike Robbins, Monte Diegel,  Lavern Stammen, Dale Palmer, Steve Beougher, Ivan Knapp, Karen Howick, Deb Hemmelgarn, Brent Vogel, Jared Laux, Doug Wolters, Joyce Jansen and Deb Scheer

Jerry Laffin opened the meeting and welcomed all those in attendance. Jerry welcomed Jared Laux, Ft. Recovery Police Chief, as the newest member of the LEPC. Introductions were made. The minutes from the July 14, 2011 meeting were distributed. Ivan Knapp made a motion to approve the minutes with Kent Hinton making a motion to second. Motion carried.

 

Old Business:

·         Membership – All of the new LEPC membership forms have been received and sent into SERC.

·         HazMat Plan – The updated HazMat Plan has been submitted and we are waiting on final approval from the state. Once approved, copies will be distributed to those designated in plan.

New Business:

·         LEPC Officer Elections –

o        Dale Palmer made a motion to nominate Jerry Laffin as the Chairman. Doug Wolters second the motion. Motion Carried.

o        Lavern Stammen made a motion to nominate Jeff Grey as the Vice Chairman. Monte Diegel second the motion. Motion Carried.

o        Steve Beougher made a motion to appoint Mike Robbins as the Information Coordinator. Doug Wolters second the motion. Motion Carried.

·        Functional EOC Exercise – Mike Robbins said the he is looking at possibly this spring to conduct a Functional EOC exercise. More information to follow.

 

OTHER:

·        Joyce Jansen, Health Department, stated that they have been conducting walk in and drive thru Flu Shot Clinics over the past couple of weeks. They held their first drive thru clinic on October 4th at the fairgrounds with the next one to be held on October 18th from 1:00 – 6:00 PM.  She stated that the drive thru clinics have gone over very well as it is convenient, especially for the elderly, and they serve as a great training exercise for the staff and volunteers.  Joyce wished to thank MCERV, Red Cross, MRC volunteers, Med Prep and Tri Star students for all of their help.   

 

Citizens Corp / Medical Reserve Corps:

·        Deb Scheer, MRC Coordinator, stated the MRC program is doing great. They currently have around 70 volunteers registered. They recently went thru their ICS 700 class with the ICS 100 training to be done at the next meeting on December 14th at 7:00 PM. Many of the MRC volunteers have assisted in the flu clinics and with other duties as needed in the Health Department.

 

Jerry wished to recognize and thank Lavern Stammen for his years of service on the LEPC. He will be greatly missed!

 

The meeting was adjourned. 

The next meeting will be held Thursday, January 12, 2012

7:30 AM at the Central Services Building

(2nd floor conference room). Breakfast will be served.

 

 

 

 

 

 

NEWS UPDATE FOR JANUARY 3, 2012

 

ENGINEERING EMPLOYEES RECOGNIZED

 

 

 

Mercer County Engineer employees left to right: Mark Leininger, Don Kittle (retired), Brad Laffin and T.J. Smalley were recently recognized at the annual Christmas lunch for their efforts in creating a memorial to co-workers that have passed away while being employed with the County Engineer.  The work that was done in the creation of the memorial was constructed on the employees’ own time and it is located at the southeast corner of the Mercer County Engineer Operations building in the fairgrounds.

 

 

 

 

Hey All,

 

Attached is the 2012 Bowling Fundraiser for the Red Cross that will be at Pla-Mor Lanes in Coldwater on January 27 & 28.
Please feel free to forward this email to others. The more people there the better!
 
Prizes, fun, beverages and more!
 
We are excited to tell you that the former Miss Ohio, Erica Gelhaus will be in attendance as well as former Miss Lake Festival Cayla Hellwarth, Miss Lake Festival contestant Kirsten Fennig and the reigning Miss Ohio (& hopefully by then Miss America!) Ellen Bryan!
 
Raffle tickets are also available until the 28th. There are some awesome prizes on the tickets! (TV, iPad, iPod, Grocery Shopping Spree, Gas Grills, Fireplace, Tree, Canned Meat Packs and more!)
 
If you have any questions or would like to join in on the fun, get a team together &/or purchase raffle tickets; Please contact Alan Siefring at 419-852-0907 or Shaun Everman 419-852-1519. We will get you set up so that you do not miss out on a great time!!
 
Thanks!!
 

--
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

 

 

 

 

--
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

\

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cost $25.00 per person 5 people per team

Total 125.00 per team

Tournament Dates & Times

Friday January 27, 2012 9:00 p.m.

Saturday January 28, 2012 7:00 p.m., 9:00 p.m.

.

ENTRY FORM

Team Name _______________________________________________________

Team Captain _______________________________________________________

Captains Address and Phone # ____________________________________________

NAME

1.______________________________

2.______________________________

3.______________________________

4.______________________________

5.______________________________

First choice: Date__________________Time__________

Second choice: Date________________Time__________

ALL CHECKS ARE TO BE WROTE OUT TO: MERCER COUNTY RED CROSS KART RACING

PLEASE RETURN ENTRY FORM WITH ENTRY FEE TO RESERVE YOU DATE.

We the Bowling committee, would like to take this opportunity to invite you to participate in

the upcoming 2012 Mercer County Red Cross Go-Kart Racing Fund Raiser. This year it will be

held at Pla-More Lanes in Coldwater. Come and enjoy an evening of fun with us in Coldwater

along with Linus and Rick Hartings, the proprietors of Pla-More Lanes. We can have up to 16

teams bowling in a shift.

We will make confirmations on dates and times with the bowling team captains on January 21, 2012.

Send Entries to:

Alan Siefring 542 Spruce St. St Henry, Ohio 45883--Home 419-678-8363

Shaun Everman 611 Woodland Ave. St Henry, Ohio 45883 -- Home 419-763-4063

--Bowl two games

--Two Hour Shifts-Need to be at the Bowling alley 30 minutes before your bowling shift starts

--30 Drink Tickets

--50/50 Drawing per shift

--Door Prizes

--Bowling Shoe Rental NOT included

--Please fill in all names possible when turning in the Entry Form.

--Raffle Drawing will take place January 28, 2012 following the last shift of bowling at Pla-Mor Lanes.

--Proceeds will go towards the purchase of equipment for the Red Cross Kart Racing, which in turn

raises money for the Mercer County Chapter of the Amercian Red Cross.

Please visit the web-site: arckartracing.com, and mercercountyredcross.org

Mercer County Chapter of the American Red Cross: 909 E. Wayne St Suite 124, Celina, Ohio 45822

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NEWS UPDATE FOR DECEMBER 26, 2011

 

 

MOSIER & BYERS JOIN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

 

 

Mosier & Byers CPAs, LLC has joined the Celina Mercer Co. Chamber. They are
located at 810 E. Market Street in Celina. Phone:419 586-8299. Pictured
from left to right: Rick Mosier, CPA, George Moore, Chamber Trustee, Pam
Buschur, Chamber Director, Gail Byers, Payroll Specialist, & Ryan Byers, CPA

 

 

Giving Spirit is Alive at
Celina Insurance Group

CARROL JEFRIES AND LESLIE WOBLER


December 22, 2011, Celina, OH—Celina Insurance Group announced today that its employees have donated Christmas gifts to the Mercer County Giving Tree Program. This program gives assistance to children in need from selected Mercer County families.
Company employees provided over thirty gifts of toys and clothing to the program.  In addition, monetary donations totaled over $100. Celina Insurance Group has proudly supported the annual holiday drive for the past fourteen years.
Founded in 1914, Celina Insurance Group is comprised of four mutual property and casualty insurance companies. Celina underwrites auto, non-standard auto, farm, home, commercial auto and property insurance, as well as umbrella and casualty coverage in seven Midwestern states. Celina Insurance Group is represented by some 600 independent agencies and employs 166 people.

 

 

Mercer Health Home Care Nurse Receives OASIS Certification

 

JENNIFER PHIPPS

 

            Mercer Health Home Care announced today that Jennifer Phipps, RN, COS-C, has received national recognition by successfully completing the certificate for OASIS specialist clinical exam through OASIS Answers, Inc. (OAI). OASIS is an outcome and assessment information set, a quality measure used in home care agencies throughout the country to enhance care for patients in the home.

            To earn this distinction, Phipps was required to complete specific training and successfully pass an extensive two and a half hour examination. Renee Kinney, RN, Director of Community Health, states, “This exam is the only nationally standardized test that evaluates a clinician’s knowledge of the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) guidelines for OASIS. The certification exam was established in 2004.”

            OASIS Answers, Inc. (OAI) is dedicated to promoting greater reliability in OASIS data through consistent application of guidelines provided by CMS. Kinney says, “OAI offers this voluntary examination which home care providers may take in order to demonstrate and establish their expertise and commitment to OASIS data.”

            Phipps has been a part of Mercer Health Home Care for over eleven years. Kinney says, “This certification shows her and our commitment to provide quality care for our patients according to the standards set by CMS.”

            Mercer Health Home Care has been a part of the Mercer County Community since it was established in 1966. This year marks the 45th year that this home nursing care service has been offered in Mercer County.

-

PHOTO:

Jennifer Phipps, RN, COS-C, shows the certificate she was awarded after passing the two and a half hour exam offered by OASIS Answers, Inc.

 

 

New Year’s Eve Bash Planned at The Rockford Belle

JIMMY MATEJEK

JESSICA KING


 End the year and the start the new one by celebrating with fantastic entertainment, great company and delicious food. A New Year’s Eve Bash with an open mic is being planned for December 31, 2011 at The Rockford Belle and will start at 8 p.m. with doors set to open at 7 p.m. Bring your soundtrack! The spotlight will shine on you, along with local performers and big names like Jimmy Matejek of Montgomery Gentry and Jessica King, who will be traveling from Nashville to perform on the stage at the Belle.  There will be something for everyone. Don’t forget to grab a bite of Brats and Kraut for good luck! The public is invited to share in the fun located at 135 Market Street, Rockford, OH just a ½ block down from Subway. Free- will donations are accepted for the food and entertainment. Contact Tom Rogers for more information at 567-644-9993.

 

S.T.A.R. SUNDAY

STAR stands for Students Teaching About Resistance

 

Who is invited?  Middle School students from Mercer, Van Wert, and Paulding Counties.

 

What is STAR?  STAR is a one day event for 6th,7th and 8th graders.  Students receive mentoring from college and high school students throughout the day. There are special speakers for personal growth groups. Students learn more about the choices they will be facing as teenagers. 

 

When is STAR?  Sunday, February 19, 2012

12:00-7:30. Middle School Dance will follow 7:30-10:30.

(This is President’s Day Weekend)

 

Where is STAR held?  STAR is held at Overdrive Entertainment on SR127 south of Celina.

 

Participants can enjoy all games at Overdrive and will receive free admission to the dance following the STAR event.

 

How do middle school students get the opportunity to go to STAR?  Students must visit the counselor’s office for an application.  The applications will be available beginning on January 11, 2012. More information is available in the office.

 

 

FORT RECOVERY BOARD OF EDUCATION

DECEMBER MEETING

Administrative Reports

Mrs. Koch:

* Updated the Board on C.D’s and Bond Notes.

Mrs. Hein Evers:

* Updated the Board on D.I.B.E.L.S. testing and use of using the website and testing.

* Reported on the Thanksgiving Feast that Elementary students were involved in.

* Informed the Board about the second grade program on Thursday, December 15, at 7:00 p.m.

Mr. Triplett:

* Informed the Board on the eighth graders taking the ACT and their performance.

* Discussed the 2011 Ohio Summit P21 seminar.

Mr. Hobbs:

* Distributed information on Semester Exams and discussed using RttT funds to join the Ohio Value Added HS Project to help with End of Course Exams.

* Reported on the fall OGT results.

Mrs. Vaughn:

* Updated the Board on the RttT STEM Grant and Value Added Professional Development sessions for staff.

*  Discussed the possibility of using Board Docs.

* Informed the Board on the contract with Garmann/Miller and the abatement companies.

* Thanked the outgoing Board members.

* Informed the Board on the upcoming meeting with Tim Buscher from Tristar.  Discussed Micro Bird and the Cafeteria Audit.

 

Consent Agenda

1. Approved minutes of prior November 22 meeting.

2. Approved November financial reports and payment.

3. Accepted and thanked Ron Shoemaker, Rich & Charlene Pearson, and Tom & Mary Pat Zitter for their donations.

4.  Approved the membership renewal with the Ohio School Boards Association.

Agenda Action Items

1. Set the Board Organizational Meeting for Tuesday, January 10, 2012, to start at 7:15, with the regular Board meeting to follow.

2. Elected David Hull as the President Pro-Tem for the Organizational Meeting.

3. Approved the temporary appropriations.

4. Approved the motion to set the Treasurer’s bond amount with the Fort Recovery Insurance agency.

5. Approved the certificates of deposit as inactive deposits until maturity date.

6.  Approved the Resolution Authorizing Issuance of Not to Exceed $3,400,000 of Bond Anticipation Notes.

7.  Executive Session.

8. Approved the employment of Karen Schwieterman as a classified sub on an as needed basis for the 2011-12 school year.

 

Addendums

9. Approved the agreement for Professional Design Services with Garmann/Miller and Associated.

10. Meeting adjourned

 

 

NEWS UPDATE FOR DECEMBER 25, 2011

 

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR

 

(Note: the following story is from knappsnews/History file from an actual interview with Santa Claus)

 

Santa Is Ready for Christmas

 

 

          Do you know who this is?  He has a long white beard, a bright red nose, and a red and white jump suit that he wears when he jumps on a lot of roofs, and down and up a lot of chimneys.

            Kids know who he is.  Kids from Celina and Coldwater, Ft. Recovery and St. Henry, Maria Stein and Rockford, Mendon and Montezuma, Chickasaw and Burkettsville, and Willshire , and all over Mercer County and in Auglaize county in St. Marys and Wapakoneta and Minster and New Bremen and New Knoxville and Waynesfeld and Uniopolis and Fryburg and Jumbo and .....

            But most kids don’t know that he lives right here in our area.  Sure he spends a lot of time at the North Pole to get ready for the Christmas season, but most of the time he lives right here.

            Some folks say “I don’t think it’s humanly possible for one man to remember so many addresses and the names of so many kids, moms and dads, aunts and uncles, grandpas and grandmas.

            But that’s because they’re not Santa Claus.  And because Santa has spent a lot of time delivering the local mail.

            Another question skeptics ask is how could someone who is so busy with mailing addresses and lists of good girls and good boys that he is checking twice on his computer, have time to keep his sleigh and reindeer in working order.

            But that’s because most people don’t know that Santa was a mechanic after he graduated from high school.  And growing up in a farm community, he is a natural with animals.

            So Santa’s a jack-of-all trades and he’s a lot closer to us throughout the year than most of us realize, that is, if we but take the time to have the right frame of mind and are looking for him. If you pay attention, you may even see him at the parades.  He often appears when and where you don’t expect him.  I once saw him at the Fair and that’s a long way from Christmas.

            The other day I finally caught up with this busy man.  The following are exerts from my interview with Santa.

            “What I do,” said Santa, “is bring the real meaning of Christmas into the hearts of kids of all ages.  Many years ago I started out as St. Nick who went about making people feel better.  The presents and gifts were added later.”

            Santa visits homes and parties every Saturday and Sunday in December.  From October 1st Santa receives a lot of calls and e-mail and he and Mrs. Claus start making appointments early.  The word spreads by word of mouth.  There is no need to advertise.  Everyone knows who Santa is and if you don’t, just ask a child.

            Children know Santa.  Children know what Christmas is all about. Santa enjoys his job. “I’m a clown.  I like to see people laugh.  I like to see everybody having a good time.  I get to see a lot of joy.”

            In addition to all his house calls, Santa attends a lot of parties before Christmas.  Among his annual visits are Christmas parties at the American Legions and K of C halls.  As Christmas approaches, Santa’s schedule gets really tight.  Fifteen minutes apart, Santa goes from house to house.  And on Christmas Day, Santa says, “I stay home to be with my own family.”

            Mrs. Claus takes good care of Santa all year around.  She also is especially busy at Christmas time as she helps Santa finish wrapping the presents and helps him load them into bag and bag for their timely delivery.

            She also helps Santa get into his suit before he makes his rounds to our homes and at our parties.  Santa has worn out several suits.  Mrs. Claus makes his new suits.  His present suit cost several hundred dollars to make.

            And when the snow doesn’t come, the sleigh needs repair, and the reindeer don’t feel good, Mrs. Claus says, “I get him ready and drive him around.”

            Easing back into a comfortable chair a few hours before he makes his Christmas deliveries, Santa says, “I could write a book about my experiences.”

            “For one thing, sometimes I talk to kids who don’t believe in me at first.  But afterwards they are convinced that I am real.

            Another thing I’ve learned about kids is that the kids who are always doing the talking are very quiet when they sit on my lap.  And the kids who are usually quiet, do all the talking.

            Parents shouldn’t worry about kids crying when they sit on my lap.  Fifty percent of all kids cry when they sit on my lap.  I guess it’s my long white beard that scares them.  I learned early in my career that kids like to pull on it, so I always put my arm around them and hold both of their hands as they talk to me.  It saves a lot of embarrassment for everyone.  I’ve learned a lot of tricks of the trade.   You learn to expect anything.           

            I remember once I was holding a little girl.  As I was asking her what she wanted for Christmas, my leg felt sort of warm.  I looked down and it was all wet.  It was sort of funny, but her mother sure was embarrassed.

            One time another little girl who was all out of breath said loud and clear, ‘I don’t want toys.  I just want a baby brother.’

            I remember this family who brought their kids to take a picture of them with Santa Claus and the little one started crying.  The parents really looked disappointed.  I told them “Go ahead and take the picture.  Twenty years from now you’ll be glad you did.”  They took the picture.

            Kids say what they hear around home.  For instance one little boy said he didn’t want much for Christmas cause ‘we’re saving money to buy a new car.’

            When I arrive at parties, I look in the windows and wave at the kids before I come in.  That sort of sparks it all off.

            When I leave, kids like to follow me.  Sometimes that causes problems and I have to duck behind the bushes until the sleigh arrives.”

            Santa says he has lots of fun with everyone at Christmas.  “Sometimes I have more fun with the adults.  I always ask adults which reindeer I left behind.  After they’re done guessing and haven’t named the right reindeer, I say, ‘I left Comet at home to clean the sink.’

            Santa says he’s also had some embarrassing moments.  “I remember once I came to a party with my big pack of presents and bent over.  There were a bunch of adults laughing their heads off behind me.  I came to find out I had ripped my pants clean out.  I had to back out of that room as quickly as I could.”

            Santa said he especially likes to visit nursing homes.  “When I go to a nursing home, folks hear me coming down the hall, sleigh bells ringing, and they call out, ‘Santa, Santa, come in here.  Stop in my room.’

            Visiting nursing homes is the most touching of all my visits.  They really believe.  It touches me in the heart.  I know when I go back next year many of them won’t be there.

            I remember visiting one old lady who said to me, “Santa this is going to be my last Christmas.”  And you know she was right.

            It’s sort of like they’re in their second childhood.  They take my visit real serious.  They believe in me.

            Have a good Christmas and enjoy the time with your family making happy memories.

 

Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus

 

 

            In all the changes from year to year, from one Christmas to the next, some things remain.  I was thinking for example about the letter Virginia O’Hanlon wrote to The New York Sun in 1897 from which I repeat here.

            “I am eight years old.  Some of my friends say there is no Santa Claus….Please tell me the truth, is that a Santa Claus?”

            And the classical reply that has stood the test of time and has lasted over 100 years.

            “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.  He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy.  How dreary would be the world if there was no Santa Claus.  It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias.

            There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence.  We wouldn’t have enjoyment, except in sense and sight.  The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished….

            The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see…Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

            Thank God Santa Claus lives and lives forever.  Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.

 

 

 

 

SPECIAL NEWS RELEASE

RICK MUHLENKAMP RUNNING FOR MERCER COUNTY COMMISSIONER

 

RICK MUHLENKAMP

 

Rick P. Muhlenkamp is a candidate for the office of Mercer County commissioner.   He is seeking the Republican nomination during the next primary election held in March for the term beginning January 3, 2013.  He is a proud graduate of The Ohio State University and Parkway High School.  Muhlenkamp is a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Celina and is a grain producer and licensed long-term substitute teacher.  Muhlenkamp is a lifetime resident of Mercer County and  resides in Celina with his wife, Diane.   

Muhlenkamp has been an elected board supervisor of the Mercer County Soil and Water Conservation District for 11 years.  He serves as the chairman of the Mercer County Regional Planning Commission and as the treasurer of the Grand Lake Wabash Watershed Alliance.  He represented southwest Ohio as an area director for the Ohio Federation of Soil and Water Conservation Districts.

While serving as a community leader, he successfully bridged communication between local, state, and federal officials, which has provided significant additional funding to our community.   He will treat citizens with respect  and is dedicated to serving all the residents of Mercer County utilizing his solid background in budgeting, finance and management.

 

 

 

NEWS UPDATE DECEMBER 19, 2011

 

 

WINNERS COMPUTER HOLDS RIBBON CUTTING

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2011

 

 

ERIC WENNING, DOUG ANTHONY, MATT KLENKE, TECHNICIANS;

BOB WINNER, OWNER; GINA BITTNER, STEVE SCHMIDT, GEORGE MOORE

CHAMBER MEMBERS

 

Winner's Computer has opened another store at
220 S. Main Street in Celina.  Phone: 567 890-3071
The Celina Mercer Co. Chamber participated in a ribbon
cutting.   

Pictured at the ribbon cutting from left to right:

Eric Wenning-Technician

Doug Anthony-Technician

Matt Klenke- Technician

Bob Winner-Owner

Gena Bittner-Chamber Trustee

Steve Schmidt-Chamber Trustee

George Moore- Chamber Trustee

Submitted,
Pam Buschur


 

 

JIM WEICHART COMPLETES YEAR AS

PRESIDENT OF CEAO

 JIM WEICHART (R)

 

COLDWATER WINS

THE MERCER SAVINGS BANK

 MAC SCHOLASTIC BOWL

IN FORT RECOVERY

 

COLDWATER FIRST PLACE

 

FORT RECIVERY SECOND PLACE

 

 

The 2011-2012 Mercer Savings Bank MAC Scholastic Bowl was hosted by Fort Recovery High School on December 12, 2011.  The twenty-third annual tournament was sponsored by Mercer Savings Bank and coordinated by Ken Markward, Gifted Programs Supervisor, Mercer County ESC.  Students competed by providing answers to questions in all subject areas.  Fort Recovery coach Margie Dilworth and her team were the local hosts for this year’s MAC Scholastic Bowl. 

 

The MAC Scholastic League is a program that promotes academic recognition. The league includes the Midwest Athletic Conference Schools of Coldwater, Delphos St. John’s, Fort Recovery, Marion Local, Minster, New Bremen, New Knoxville, Parkway,

St. Henry and Versailles.

 

Representing the Mercer Savings Bank, Lu Grunden presented prize money to the top five teams. The Coldwater High School Scholastic Team, coached by Tom Gisege, won first place and received a $150 award.  Team members are Shane Bruggeman, Emily Bruns, Aaron Hess, Shannon Hess, Lindsey Honigford, Adam Homan, Courtney Kunk, Janelle Moorman, Nolan Reed, Trevor Rindler, Lauren Rose, Alex Schmitt, Dani Waltmire and Joey Wright.  Each team member also received a 2 GB flash drive from the bank. 

 

The second place award of $100 went to the Fort Recovery High School team, coached by Margie Dilworth.  Team members are Brian Bauer, Adam Fullenkamp, Tyler Hart, Kelly Hull, Katelyn Jutte, Mallory Kinder, Alison Koch, Nick McGough, Daryl Osterloh, Adam Pohl, Brandon Stammen and David Tobe.

 

The Parkway High School team, coached by Anita Muhlenkamp and Ann Vian, took home the third place award of $75.  The $50 fourth place award went to the New Knoxville High School team, coached by Cory Canan, while the St. Henry High School team, coached by Tom Marchal, received the $25 prize for fifth place.

 

 

Midwest Electric employees and trustees donate $2,536 to area children

 

 

Midwest Electric employees and trustees recently donated $2,536 to SOURCES Community Network Services, Celina, to help buy Christmas gifts for children in Mercer and Auglaize counties.

 

The donation will help fund the Angel Tree program in Mercer County; Mercy Unlimited’s Miracle Meal at the Auglaize County Fairgrounds; and Agape Ministries in St. Marys, for the purpose of giving Christmas presents to area children.

 

Midwest Electric employees and members have contributed $33,000 to Christmas for Kids since 1992.

 

MCDO MINUTES FOR DECEMBER 13, 2011

 

President, Jim Keller called the December meeting of The Marion Community Development Organization to order by reciting The Pledge of Allegiance. The meeting was held on December 13, 2011, at 7:00 p.m. at the Marion Township Building.  Minutes were approved as read.

                                                    

COMMITTEE REPORTS

 

MEMBERSHIP AND PROMOTION COMMITTEE

Committee Chairperson – Bill Winner

 

2012 Memberships Due Now

Thank you to those of you who sent in your 2012 Memberships.  We are collecting Memberships for 2012 at this time.   If you would like to pay your 2012 membership, please forward payment with the Membership Form on the back of the minutes.   As always, thank you for your support to the MCDO.   If you are uncertain about your membership status, please contact Bill Winner (419) 925-4175 or Barb Kahlig (419) 925-6301 or email to mcdo@bright.net  and I'll be glad to check our records.  

 

 

 

 

RECREATION COMMITTEE

Committee Chairperson – Jason Winner

The weekly winners of the 301 Club are as follows:        

                                November 13:  Glenn Schwieterman               November 27:  Tim Moeller

                                November 20:  Pat Moeller                               December 4:  Mark Griesdorn

                                                                                                                December 11:  Bart Homan

                               

AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

Committee Chairperson – Mark Hardesty

The Ag Ed Boosters continue to meet monthly.  The long range planning committee is also meeting regularly and developing ideas which they will discuss with the school administration and board concerning future facilities and curriculum.   The Boosters desire a program which is among the best in the state and which will prepare students for real world careers and challenges.  The Boosters meet on the third Monday of each month in the Ag classroom at the high school.  All are invited.  

                                               

HEALTH & EDUCATION COMMITTEE

Committee Chairperson – Jennifer Bills

 

Here are the upcoming health events:
 
January: Free blood sugar checks for diabetes (fasting OR at least 2 hours after last meal)

                Free blood pressure checks
4th: St. Henry Library 1-4pm
5th: Chickasaw Library 1-4 pm
6th: Celina Wal-Mart 10am-Noon
11th: Mercer Co. Senior Citizens Center 10:30am-12:30
 
As the holiday season and new year approach, this is a great time to reflect on personal dietary and physical activity habits. Here are a few things to keep in mind: If you like to indulge in sweets or other types of special treats with meals over the season, keep in mind portion size. Eating a few bites of a rich dessert can satisfy the craving and is much healthier to the heart and waistline! Search the Internet for low-calorie versions of your favorite recipes. Often by making one or two substitutions, you can drastically cut the calorie and fat content in the recipe. Try adding in some physical activity daily. Walk up flights of steps when possible, choose a parking space that is farther away from the entrance, do stretching or lift hand weights while watching television, decide to wash dishes by hand; any choice you make to add in little bits of physical activity during the day add up to a healthier heart and less stress! If the idea of doing 30 minutes of exercise is daunting, break the sessions up into 3, 10-minute work-outs. You will still benefit from the activity and within time, you will increase your endurance.
 
Finally, always remember if you consume any alcohol with your celebrations, never drink and drive!
 
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

 

OLD  BUSINESS:

 

SWITCH AND SUPPORT:  This is yet another reminder to save money on your electric bill and help the community!!  The MCDO is sponsoring Switch and Support a company which allows a residence or business to switch from their current electric provider to one providing electricity at less expensive rates.  They do all the leg work finding the best provider for you and then make the switch easy and painless.  You can only switch from non-coop firms like DP&L.  Not only do you save money, you can designate a local charity; parks, school, library, band, athletic, or Ag booster group, or your church to receive an annual donation from Switch and Support.  Area businesses like Maria Stein Grain have already signed up.  Contact their local representative Dennis “Abe” Everman at (419) 305-8482, email:  evermana@roadrunner.com.    He’ll assist you in the money saving switch.  Another contact is Mike Beisner (937) 569-1759, email: mbeisner@switchandsupport.com.  You can also check the program out at http://www.selfproviders.com.

 

Our January Business Luncheon is still in the planning stages.  More information will be available at our next meeting.

 

NEW  BUSINESS:

 

Discussion took place about our Annual Community Address.   Tentative date is April 15, 2012.   We are putting plans in place for a speaker at this time.

 

The MCDO is providing support to Ohio Recycling to clear up some ongoing issues with the Mercer County Solid Waste District.  Ohio Recycling is a long time area business which has contributed significantly to the prosperity of our community.

        

Maria Stein Sewer/ Hometown Cable Update

 

Still some residences remain to be tied in to the system.  Other than that sewer project is complete.

 

Hometown cable reports that they have received all state permits allowing them to bring their trunk line from St. Henry to Maria Stein.  Hometown can use the utility poles owned by Midwest Electric to string their cable, however in the areas where the poles are owned by DP&L they will need to bury the cable.  They are estimating about 35,000 feet of buried cable so this will take some time.  They plan to work through the winter as the weather allows.  Marion Local Schools will be the first entity in the area to hook into this new state-of-the-art fiber optic line. 

 

VILLAGE, TOWNSHIP AND SCHOOL REPORTS

 

Chickasaw – No village report this month

Chickasaw Park Board Report – For information on renting the park shelters, call Sandy Niekamp at 925-4960.  

Osgood – No village report this month

Osgood Park Board Report – For information on renting the park shelters, call Alan Wendel at 419-582-4502. 

Marion Township - Bob Unrast, Marion Township Trustee, discussed the financial challenges facing the Township Park given the failure of the recent      support levy.  The trustees are pursuing ideas to keep the park maintained at the same standard the community and the athletes using it have come           to expect.

Marion Township Park Board – For information or concerns about the park, call Ron Hartings at 925-4804.

 

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:50pm, with a motion from Bill Winner, seconded by Bob Unrast.  The next meeting of the MCDO is scheduled for Tuesday,  January 10, 2012, at 7:00p.m at the Marion Township Building.

 

Submitted by:    Jim Keller, President

 

Top of Form

 

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy

Partisan Politics Aside for a Single Primary and

Savings for the Tax Payer

 

This past week, I voted in favor of Sub House Bill 369, which created one primary and settled the dispute over new congressional maps.  Every 10 years Ohio lawmakers gather to draw new congressional district lines, a process undertaken by leadership in the General Assembly.  I have been a part of this process twice before.  Never have I witnessed the minority party create as much havoc and confusion at the drawing table as they did during this year.  However, Wednesday night we finally gained enough support from the minority party to settle on a bill and hold only one primary.  I commend my colleagues who had the courage to stand against their party and support the map that has fair lines and increases African American and other minority representation.

 

The reason for two primaries and all this confusion goes back to a deal that was made this fall between the minority and majority to push the primary back to May.  At the last minute, minority leadership pulled out of that deal, which led to the eventual chaos.

 

I fundamentally oppose holding two separate primaries.  Two primaries would result in reduced voter turnout and an expense to tax payers of $15 million.  The other side backed us against a wall with a choice of two primaries or disenfranchising our military voters.  In that situation, it was a difficult, but necessary decision to vote in favor of two primaries.  On Wednesday, I had the opportunity to support one primary election.  Many good statesmen from both sides of the aisle put aside their differences and did the right thing for Ohioans.

 

This agreement provides a map with more compact congressional districts and one primary on March 6th.  The primary held on March 6th will align Ohio with Super Tuesday, a day when presidential primaries are held across the country.  To cut down on confusion and costs, anyone who filed for the March 6th primary by the December 7th deadline will be on the March 6th primary ballot.  In addition, the US Senate race, Presidential race, and the Congressional races will have another deadline 11 days from the signing of the new redistricting bill.

 

The map provides a slight change to our local congressional districts.  Preble County and Darke County will still be part of District 8, a seat currently held by Speaker Boehner.  This district will include Butler, Clark, Darke, Miami, and Preble counties.  Mercer County will be split into three congressional districts that converge at Grand Lake St. Marys.  District 5, currently represented by Congressman Latta, will cover most portions of northwest Ohio and will include over 50 percent of the land territory in Mercer County including Celina.  District 4, currently represented by Congressman Jordan will extend from Lorain and Sandusky counties to Champaign and Shelby counties.  The district includes Allen and Union counties.  It includes Franklin Township and Grand Lake St. Marys in Mercer County.  District 8 currently held by Congressman Boehner will include the southern portion of Mercer County including Coldwater.

 

The new map is favorable to our region.  Although a single congressional district in Mercer County would be less confusing, the new three-congressmen approach will benefit the overall well being of Grand Lake St. Marys.  It will provide access to increased federal resources and it will strengthen agriculture.  The biggest advantage of the new map is that it avoids two primaries and saves the taxpayers money.  As your state representative, I will continue to look for ways to avoid government waste and keep your taxes low.

 

 

MAKING CONTRIBUTION TO ROCKFORD ARTS IN THE PARK

 

If you are wanting to make a contribution to

Arts in the Park for Rockford 2012 the

deadline is approaching.

 

Please note - address change for Arts Place ~

 

Arts Place

Arts in the Park - Rockford

140 E Spring St.

St. Marys, OH  45882

 

or you can contribute through the

Leota Braun Foundation at

 

Leota Braun Foundation

Arts in the Park - Rockford

PO Box 364

Rockford, OH  45882

 

Thank you in advance for your support.

 

 

Lisa

Village of Rockford

 

Buchy Applauds House Passage of Legislation to Encourage Business Expansion into Vacant Facilities

 

COLUMBUS—State Representative Jim Buchy (R-Greenville) has announced that the Ohio House of Representatives passed legislation that aims to encourage businesses to create jobs and invest in communities that have been hard-hit by the difficult economy. 

 

House Bill 18 authorizes a $500 per-employee grant for a business that expands into a facility that has been vacant for 12 months, increases its payroll, and employs either 50 employees or 50 percent of its Ohio employees at the vacant facility.

 

“This bill is about putting people to work,” Representative Buchy said. “With job-friendly policies like this one, one day there will be no vacant buildings.”

 

Additional provisions in the legislation specify that an employer may receive no more than one grant and limits the availability of grants to three years after the bill takes effect. It also authorizes the award of grants from the Facilities Establishment Fund or from unencumbered funds available to any entity performing job creation or other economic development functions for the state.

 

House Bill 18 was originally introduced during the 128th General Assembly as House Bill 437, which was part of the “Future of Ohio” jobs package—a collection of 10 bills that aimed to facilitate economic growth and job creation in Ohio.  It will now be sent to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.

 

 

MIDWEST  TO USE FACEBOOK AND TWITTER

 

We invite the news media to follow us on Facebook and Twitter. We intend to use social media as a way to spread information quickly on larger outages, emergencies and critical peak alerts (as well as less urgent items such as energy efficiency). During larger outages and emergencies, we intend to push the information first to Facebook and Twitter, before sending news releases; so this may help you get the information a little quicker.

 

On Facebook, we are facebook.com/midwestelectric. On Twitter, we are @MidwestREC. Or look for the Facebook and Twitter icons on our website for a direct link (or below in my email signature), then click Like (Facebook) and Follow (Twitter).

 

Please let me know if you have any questions.

 

Thank you,

 

Matt Berry

Manager, Customer Service

Midwest Electric

06029 County Road 33A

St. Marys, OH  45885

1-800-962-3830

mberry@midwestrec

 

New Bremen Seniors announce Christmas Party

 

(New Bremen)

 

New Bremen Senior Citizens will host their annual Christmas party and carry-in dinner on Dec. 21st at the Senior Citizens Center, 700 East Monroe St., New Bremen.

The children from the YMCA Learning Center will open the program at noon with some entertaining songs. The dinner will follow. Ham will be furnished by the organization and all members are asked to bring their favorite dish.

 

Grand Lake Health nurses will also be there before the meeting for a glucose screening and blood pressure check. Please allow yourself extra time to have this done. They will start checking at 11:00 am.  Serving on the lunch committee are Eileen, Suzanne, Harold, and Ed Heuker. The afternoon with conclude with a door prize drawings and entertainment by Nancy Niekamp.

 

 

PARKWAY COLLECTS TOYS FOR TOTS

MR. KEN MEYERS AND CUB SCOUTS WEBELOS

 

 

 

The Parkway FBLA would like to thank  the community for their support. With the help of Cub Scout Pack 98 Webelos, the staff of Parkway Schools, and especially the Freshmen class, the program raised over $1400 in toys and money for Toys for Tots.

 

Parkway FBLA would like to thank Belna Petroleum and Chatt Fire Department for their private donations.

 

This year the Toys for Tots campaign at Parkway Schools was blessed by the generosity of our donors and the Parkway High School Freshmen class. The Freshmen were learning about the Great Depression and how so many people were able to find charity in a time of hardship. The class examined how the Toys for Tots program is an example of giving back to a community in need. The Freshmen class alone gathered a little over $1000 in cash and toys. Their kind efforts and generosity embodies the spirit of the season and the spirit of giving.

 

The toys will be distributed through the Van Wert area Toys for Tots program headed by Mr. Ken Meyers.