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Sat, Sun August 2-3 Coldwater Picnic Sun August 3 Coldwater Parade Tue August 5 Commissioners, 9 .a.m.; Ground Breaking for Jail, 11 a.m.; Mercer County Teen Coalition, 12 noon at Orchard Tree Thur August 7 Ag Breakfast, 7:30 a.m.; Commissioners 9 a.m. Fri August 8 Mercer County Fair Open; Opening Ceremony 3 p.m.; Miss Mercer County, 4 p.m. 9-11 years old; 7:30 p.m. King and Queen, 7:30 p.m. Sat August 9 Pie Contest, 2:30 p.m.; Tractor Pull, 7 p.m.; Jr. Showman, 5 p.m. Dog Show 5:30 Sun August 10 Harness Racing, 1:30; Go Karts, 5 and 7 p.m.; FFA Awards, 12:45 Mon August 11 Senior Day, 11 a.m.,; 12:30 senior king and queen contest; harness raclng, 7 p.m.; square dancing, 7:30 p.m.’ Veterans Ceremony, 6 p.m. Tue August 12 Nursing Home Day, 10:30 a.m.; Cookie Contest, 2:30; Bubble Gum Blowing Contest, 3 p.m..Harness Racing, 7 p.m. Wed August 13 Pedal Tractor weigh-in at 9:30 a.m.; Tractor Pull at 10 a..m.; School Bands, 7 p.m. Thur August 14 Demo Derby, 7 p.m.; livestock auction 6 p.m.
Mon August 11 Coldwater Council Tue August12 Commissioners 9 a.m.; Coldwater BOE, 6 p.m. Fort Recovery BOE, 7:30 p.m. Thur August 14 Commissioners 9 a.m. Mon August 18 St. Henry BOE, 7 p.m. Tue August 19 Commissioners 9 a.m. Thur August 21 Commissioners 9 a.m. Mon August 25 Coldwater Council Tue August 26 Commissioners, 9 a.m. Thur August 28 Commissioners, 9 a.m. ********************************************************************************************Sat-Sun August 23-24 Governor’s Cup Regatta Wed-Sun Aug 13-17 MD Tournament Thur-Sun August 7-10 Yard Sale
NEWS UPDATE FOR AUGUST 26, 2008
Nurse Midwife Delivers 6000th Birth New mother Bethany Loveless and Donna Scheideberg For Donna Scheideberg, Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) at Mercer Health, welcoming new life into the world has become a lifetime obsession. What began as a desire to meet an obvious need at a hospital in North Carolina has blossomed into a career that spans 30 years and has included 6000 deliveries. It has been an interesting and sometimes fascinating journey for Scheideberg. She says, “My first delivery as a Nurse Midwife was in Hollandale, Mississippi while I was in training at the University of Mississippi. The mother was from the Mississippi Delta and was a direct descendent of a slave. She delivered a 3 pounds, 8 ounces baby girl that was 6 weeks premature. It was her thirteenth child but her first delivery in a hospital.” When she started, the idea of a nurse midwife in a hospital setting was not yet fully established. She says, “When I began, only ten states permitted nurse midwives to deliver. My first position was at a small rural hospital in Statesboro, Georgia. The hospital had only two obstetricians (one getting ready to retire), and neither one of them wanted to be on call during the night shift. I was hired to deliver babies when they were not available.” With her husband in the service, Scheideberg had the opportunity to work at a variety of hospitals in different parts of the world. One such setting sent her to a hospital in Okinawa, Japan. She says, “While most hospital deliver between 300 and 400 births a year, this hospital delivered 350 births a month. I was able to help mothers deliver their new sons/daughter between 50 and 60 times per month. In 3.5 years, I was able to witness 2000 new births. One of the girls I delivered is now attending Yale University training to become a Nurse Midwife.” Perhaps her most unique experience happened over 18 years ago. She explains, “I was working in New York at the time. The expecting mother insisted that all 21 members of her family be present for the birth of what would be a new baby girl. They all wanted to be there. The baby was delivered into the arms of the great, great, great, great (that’s 4 greats) grandmother. To this day, I still receive cards and letters from that family.” Scheideberg has seen many changes over the years, but having dads become more involved in the birthing process has always been a constant. She remembers one of the dads who was the Chief Operations Officer at a hospital in Iowa. After the birth of his son, he bragged about how he delivered his son to anyone who would listen for months afterwards. She says, “In Seattle, there was a Seattle Seahawks football player who stated after it was all over that it was easier catching a pass than catching a baby.” Among the many trends she has seen is the movement towards more “family centered” birthing experiences. She says, “It is such an important part of the birthing experience to have family members involved. It creates a lifetime bond with that new baby. I love having the dads come in and watch the movement of the baby via the ultrasound. The dad’s eyes light up when he sees his future son or daughter moving around on that ultrasound.” Another trend she sees as positive is the shift from the sterile environment of the late seventies to the homelike comfort setting at Mercer Health. She says, “This setting puts major emphasis on making the birth truly family experience.” Another trend she has noted over the years is the dramatic increase in the number of c-section deliveries. She says, “At one time, we tried to avoid a c-section delivery if at all possible. Out goal was to keep the number of c-section deliveries down to 3 to 5% - the national average 20 years ago. Today, that average is closer to 30%. I have also seen an increase in the number of epidurals used in the delivery process.” There are many reasons for this dramatic shift. With the new technologies available and more efficient techniques, c-sections can be done more easily and with less risk of complications. Scheideberg also points out that babies seem to be larger now than in the past and that new monitoring equipment can signal distress in the baby at an earlier stage. She says, “Infant and maternal mortality rates have continued to decline as the number of c-sections have increased.” The questions remains is “how did you begin keeping track of all of those births throughout all of those years? She responds, “When you begin as a trainee, you have to keep track of the number deliveries you perform so that you can become a fully trained Certified Nurse Midwife. After that, you have to keep a log of each baby that you bring into this world. I just keep adding them up as I go along.” In addition to helping healthy expecting mothers prepare and deliver at birth, Scheideberg is involved in a number of wellness programs females of all ages. Persons wanting more information about the services she provides can call 419-586-2226, ext. 2. Donna Scheideberg (right) is shown with the mother Bethany Loveless with her new daughter, Aurora Sonia. Aurora is the 6000th baby that Scheideberg has delivered into this world. She was born on August 14 at 3:14 p.m. Aurora is the daughter of Bethany and Philip Loveless from Celina. It is their third child.
LOCAL FCCLA ATTEND National Meeting Amber Hartke, Nicole Griesdorn, Jenna Boeckman More than 5,000 members of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), gathered in Orlando, Florida July 13-17 for the 2008 National Leadership Meeting. Among those participating were Tri Star Career Compact’s FCCLA members Amber Hartke (from Marion Local), Nicole Griesdorn and Jenna Boeckman (from Coldwater) and their advisor Bonnie Dahlinghaus. The three seniors competed in the Chapter Service Project Display, which was one of several STAR (Students Taking Action with Recognition) Events held during the meeting. The Chapter Service Project Display is a team event which recognizes FCCLA chapters that develop and implement an in-depth service project that makes a worthwhile contribution to families, schools, and communities. Tri Star’s Chapter Service Project was titled “Multi Generation Troop Support”. The trio worked with Briarwood residents, Head Start families and fellow Tri Star students collecting items and raising money to send to the military troops overseas. Their project received 99 of 100 possible points earning them a gold medal rating.
NEWS UPDATE FOR AUGUST 25, 2008
Community Scams Next Mercer Health Dine and Discover Program Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey will be the featured speaker at the next Dine and Discover (DaD) Program sponsored by Mercer Health at Mercer County Community Hospital on Monday, September 8, beginning with a dinner at 5:00 pm. Grey will discuss different methods that unscrupulous characters use to scam the community. He will also talk about how to recognize a scam and what to do if one is suspected. The program is open to any interested individual in the community, but seating is limited. The Mercer Health DaD program began in September, 2007, and has continued to grow from there. This will be the fifth presentation in the series. This program is open to the public. Dinner will be served beginning at 5:00 p.m. with speaker Sheriff Jeff Grey from 5:30 to 6:30. Persons interested in attending should call 419-678-5196 no later than September 3 to make a reservation. There is a $5 fee per person for this event.
Oriental Health and Fitness Seminar
[Celina]¾ Ironbear Martial Arts will be hosting an Oriental Health and Fitness Seminar at the YMCA in Celina on Saturday September 20, 2008 from 9:00am to 12:00pm. Snacks and beverages provided. Master Shind has earned a Masters Rank in several martial arts styles. He has spent many years training with Chinese Masters and has become a Master in Qigong. Qigong is a Chinese healing art that is over 3000 years old. The Asian cultures use Qigong or Chi Kung for health and wellness. Many top rated doctors now recognize qigong as a component in helping to maintain good health. The 1st session will consist of basic qigong designed specifically for health. A refreshment break will follow the 1st session. More advanced techniques will be included in the 2nd session of the seminar, including martial qigong applications and health techniques. Both sessions are suitable for people of most fitness levels. The seminar will end with more refreshments. Questions may be directed to David Weaver at 419-584-1958 or through our website: www.ironbearmartialarts.com. Pre-registering is appreciated but not required by calling David Weaver at the number above.
Understanding the Basics of Ballot Initiatives View From the StatehouseAs fall rapidly approaches, many turn their thoughts from boating and barbecue, to school supplies, football and the coming harvest. As a state legislator, one other thing that arrives in the fall is the onset of elections. With this in mind, I wanted to start what I hope will be a short series on ballot initiatives. As many of you know, this November there will be numerous offices on the ballot. What you may not notice is that near the end of your ballot, there will also be various state and local issues. I wanted to spend a little time today discussing what a state ballot initiative is, and why you should take the time to read and vote on these issues. One issue almost all Ohioans are familiar with is the recent enactment of the statewide smoking ban. Unfortunately, many people are not aware that this ban was not done as a bill by my colleagues in the legislature. Rather, this was a state ballot initiative and the people of Ohio collectively decided that a smoking ban should be enacted. Today, I wanted to talk about how an issue ends up on the ballot. To place an initiative on the ballot, the group or individuals backing the initiative must collect enough valid signatures in order to seek certification by the Attorney General. In Ohio, the total number of signatures must equal at least six percent (6%) of the total vote cast for the office of governor in the last gubernatorial election. Also, the signatures must be gathered from at least 44 of the 88 counties of the state. While there are other finer point and steps that are taken to reach eventual inclusion on the ballot, the major hurdle is in simply obtaining enough signatures. For example, to put an initiative on the ballot this year, one would need to obtain over 240,000 valid signatures. Many groups must go far above and beyond this number in order to account for any signatures that are found to be invalid. Once on the ballot, the people have a direct vote on whether or not the ballot initiative will pass. Thus, it is extremely important for you to take the time to read about each ballot initiative and decide if these are measures you would support for Ohio. In the coming weeks, I will discuss how a ballot initiative voted on by the people is translated into rules and consequences by state agencies. As always, feel free to send me your legislative ideas or to contact me about any state-related matter, I am available by phone at (614) 466-6344, by e-mail at district77@ohr.state.oh.us or by writing me, State Representative Jim Zehringer, 77 S. High St., District 77, Columbus, OH 43215. I can also be reached in my Greenville office at (937) 547-1770.
Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever Farm Bill Biologist (3) Northwest and West Central Ohio Application Deadline: September 5th 200 Duties: Pheasants Forever is looking to hire 3 Biologist position in Northwest and West Central regions of Ohio starting Oct 1st. In partnership with the Ohio Division of Wildlife (DOW) and USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), coordinate and implement wildlife-related conservation technical assistance. Work in joint capacity with PF, NRCS, and the Farm Service Agency (FSA) to promote, coordinate and implement conservation provisions of the Federal Farm Bill and other related wildlife conservation programs. The programs of interest are promoting and implementing CREP watershed programs, CP33 practice for Bobwhite Quail and Upland Wildlife and CRP Mid-contract management. Duties will include habitat planning, contract coordination, writing conservation plans, site assessment and reporting. Provide technical assistance for wildlife habitat enhancement techniques to private landowners and public organizations. Meet with local chapters of Pheasants Forever to help coordinate and influence habitat management efforts and participate in county and statewide habitat meetings. Meet regularly with DOW, PF and USDA staff to coordinate technical assistance efforts. Implement specific conservation programs to improve wildlife habitat.
Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities:
Training and Experience Guideline: Any combination of training and/or experience that will enable the applicant to possess the required knowledge, skills and abilities. A general qualification guideline for this position is a Bachelor of Science Degree in Wildlife Management or closely related natural resources field and 1 year related field experience. However, a combination of other education and experience will be considered. Salary: $26,000 - $32,000 depending on qualifications. To Apply: Send Cover Letter, Resume and references (email in Word Document preferred) to: Joy Eastman Pheasants Forever Inc. 1783 Buerkle Circle St. Paul, Minnesota 55110 Direct Dial: 651-209-4917 Fax: 651-773-5500
For more information about the position please contact: Jim Inglis Farm Bill Biologist Coordinator 18203 Bear Swamp Rd Marysville, OH 43040 (419) 569-1096 Pheasants Forever is a an equal opportunity employer
We are getting ready to kick off
Project Hope and for the first time ever, we are going to kick it off
with a HUGE event. We will have the first annual Project Hope Poker Run!
NEWS UDATE FOR AUGUST 20 SECTION II Winners of the Kiddie Tractor Pull
Tana Bruggeman, Colin Adams, Hayden Abromavich
Tana Bruggeman and parents Kevin and Karen Bruggeman
Colin Adams, parents Troy and Melinda; Kenzie and Connor
Hayden Abromavich, grandparents Barb and Bill Hamilton; parents Aressa and Rob Abrmavich
Jodi Eischen, Emily Schoenlein, Megan Sudhoff, Jssica Link; Jordan Griedorn, Jake Marchal, Trent Mullen, Tyler Goettemoeller; Eric Wuebker; Trent Judy; Garth Louth, Travis Guggenbiller, Mitch Sudhoff, Jeremy Siegrist, Jonathan Pottkotter, Trevor Wenning
4H Project Winners
NEWS UPDATE FOR AUGUST 20, 2008 Sheriff Jeff Grey Makes Several Arrests Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today August 18, that his Office made several arrests over the weekend due to numerous complaints and a letter written to the Sheriff’s Office by cottage owner’s in the area, regarding bar patrons in the Duckfoot’s Landing area. Arrested on Friday, August 15th were: Eric Brandewie, age 45, Ft. Loramie, charged with open container in public. Darrell Foudray, age 42, Celina, charged with open container in public. Arrested on Saturday, August 16th were: Sheila Reiser, age 42, West Carrollton, charged with open container in public. Joseph Seger, age 57, Ft. Loramie, charged with open container in public. Dustin Collins, age 35, Columbus, charged with urinating in public. Nick Hinders, age 39, West Carrollton, charged with open container in public. Dianna Bradburn, age 50, Celina, charged with open container in public. Sarah Davis, age 28, Troy, charged with open container in public. Matthew W Meyerhoeffer,, age 24. Waynesville, disorderly conduct. (passed out on private property) Deputies will continue to step up efforts in this area to maintain peace and security. “Residents in this area should not have to tolerate the people passed out in their yards, urinating on their property, and disorder,” advised Sheriff Grey. “This is a warning to the visitors of the Duckfoot’s Landing area, we will continue to be there making arrests until the problem is resolved. Deputies will be strictly enforcing OVI laws to include drivers of golf carts, open container laws, and disorderly conduct laws. Anything that can be traced back to a tavern, will result in charges against tavern employees and tavern liquor licenses. Talking about it hasn’t worked, it is time for action.” SW Auglaize County Chamber Board to Meet at New Bremen Town Hall (New Bremen) The Southwestern Auglaize County Chamber of Commerce will hold its monthly Board Meeting at the New Bremen Municipal Center on Tuesday, September 9. The meeting will begin at 11:30 am and conclude at 1:00 pm. The Municipal Center is located at 214 N. Washington Street (State Route 66). The Chamber is taking its Board Meetings into the communities, with the goal of making the Chamber more accessible to the members and citizens of Minster, New Bremen and New Knoxville. Area Chamber Members, local businesses, and interested individuals are invited to attend. The agenda will include the 2009 calendar, a discussion of Chamber events, and the Tenth Anniversary Celebration. There will be time for questions and community input. The Board Meetings are “working lunch” events, and those attending are also invited to bring a lunch. Beverages will be provided by the Chamber. For questions or more information, contact the Southwestern Auglaize County Chamber of Commerce at 419-629-0313 A Nutrient Management Field Day was held on August 5, 2008, at the corner of State Route 716 and Droesch Road, Marion Township, Mercer County, Ohio. This field day was hosted by the Grand Lake/Wabash Watershed Alliance, Stillwater River Watershed Project and Loramie Valley Alliance. Topics covered were composting, turning manure into dollars, cover crops, Lake Erie Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program, soil structure, conservation tillage and manure spreading techniques. About 70 people attended the field day. Of those who signed in, 25 percent were from the Stillwater River watershed, 25 percent from the Grand Lake St. Marys/Wabash River watersheds and the other 50 percent were from other areas, including Loramie Valley. Six certified livestock managers earned continuing education credits at this field day. A grant from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources provided Manure Management Guides ($9.25) and Tri-State Fertilizer Recommendations books ($3.25) for producers attending this workshop. This field day was sponsored by the following: Farm Bureau, Reliable Rental Party Supply, Droesch Farm Service, Brookside Wood Products, Western Lake Erie Basin Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program, and Auglaize, Darke, Mercer, Miami and Shelby Soil and Water Conservation Districts. Also contributing to the field day was Byron Seeds/Brunswick Forages, A-1 Ag Service, Lefeld Implement, Post Equipment, Apple Farm Service, Homan Equipment, Barnyard Supply, WTGR 97.5 FM The Tiger, Greenville Wal-mart, Ohio State University Extension, Farm Service Agency, Maumee Watershed Project, Natural Resources Conservation Service and Van Tilburg Farms. Anyone interested in hosting or participating in a similar field day in 2009, please contact Laura Walker, at Mercer County SWCD, 419-586-3289, laura.walker@mercercountyohio.org, or 220 West Livingston Street, Celina. Remington 870 Picked up by Mistake Fellow PF Members, The officers of Mercer County PF would like to thank all of you who attened the Fish Fry for your support! IF you were not able to attend mark your 2009 calendar for the 3rd Saturday in August. If anyone who did attend got home to notice that they had picked up the wrong remington 870 firearm please contact me by email or by phone (419) 268 - 2839. One of the attendees ended up with a Remington 870 express that was someone elses would like to exchange it for theirs. Respectfully, Secretary Mercer County PF Chapter # 745 Business After Hours August 28 at Celina Mano Celina Manor in conjunction with the Celina-Mercer County Chamber’s Business After Hours will host a VIP Open House on Thursday, August 28th from 4:30pm-6:30pm. Please join us for appetizers, cocktails and a tour at the grand opening of our new Transitional Care Neighborhood. The Transitional Care Neighborhood provides short-term rehabilitation services after surgery or illness. Come see the newly designed therapy gym, private rehab suites, and Nintendo Wii Therapy. News Update for August 19, 2008 Section II Ohio State Grange President Visits Mercer County Fair
Viola Wayne, who is Master of the Ohio State Grange came to the Mercer County Fair. She was introduced by Gary Brumbaugh who is Overseer of the Ohio State Grange. Mr. Brumbaugh is up for president when elections are held in the fall. The Grange, the oldest service organization in Ohio is well known at the fair with the Unity Grange and Hopewell Grange who serve meals during the fair. Several local community leaders are members of the Unity Grange including Jerry Laffin, Mercer County Commissioner and his wife Nancy and Sharon LaRue who is mayor of Celina. Mr. Brumbaugh is well known across the state for his understanding and knowledge of both Grange and Ohio History. The Unity Grange puts up a display of Grange History at the lunch stand each year. For more information about the history of the Grange see www.ohiostategrange.org. The grange is well known for their involvement of both women and young people. Viola is the first woman president. Presently four of the state officers are women. This year’s annual convention will be held in October in Dayton (Moraine), Ohio. See web site for further details. Headquarters for the Ohio Grange is Fredericktown, Ohio.
NEWS UPDATE FOR AUGUST 19, 2008 Mercer County Fair Senior King and Queen
Louis Borger of St. Marys and Alice Eyink of St. Henry were named 1980 Mercer County Fair Senior King and Queen by emcee Diana Grile at this year’ Senior Day Program on August 11. Over 250 seniors attended the program that includer entertainment, a meal, door prizes, and the selection of this year’s king and queen. Also recorgnized were the oldest seniors in attendance. Both Louis and Alice were very surprised to be selected royalty. They are parents of four and three children respectively and have been coming to the fair for over 50 years. They were pleased with all the new changes including the new restrooms and handicap ramp at the grandstand. There were also over 90 seniors attending Nursing Home Day on Tuesday, August 12. Both days included entertainment and a meal and door prizes. On Monday, Diana Grile named the king and queen and recognized the oldest seniors present. Some of Tuesday’s seniors enjoyed a door of the fair grounds provided by fair board members and volunteers helping with festivities. It was a great timer for the seniors made even better by the weather which was cooler this year,
NEWS UPDATE FOR AUGUST 4, 2008 SECTION II Jerry Rentz Celebrates 50 Years as a Barber
Jerry Rentz cuts Joe Oen's hair This story is a salute to Jerry Rentz, who has been a barber for 50 years of which 47 years have been in St. Marys, Ohio. He lives in Chickasaw, Ohio, with his wife Carol who has been a beautician for 40 years. He graduated with the last class of St. John’s High School in Maria Stein in 1958 with the next class to be the first to graduate from the new Marion Local High School in 1959. His parents were John and Henriette Rentz. His father died when he was 55 years old and his mother lived to be 95. He grew up on farms first on Guadalupe Road, and then St. Johns Road. His family moved to Chickasaw when he was 6 years old where he still lives. He and his wife have a son, John Rentz who is a civil engineer in Mason, Ohio. His wife is Jennifer. John works for the Harris Corporation. He graduated from Andrews Barber School in Columbus and worked as a barber for three years on North Main Street in Lima, Ohio. He came to St. Marys in 1962. He and his brother Harry set up the Rentz/ Barber Shop at 138 East Spring Street. Three years later they moved across the street to 133 East Spring in 1965 as Wilsons purchased the property across the street at 138 East Spring Street. Jerry had a half-brother Gene, who talked him into becoming a barber. His other brother was Harry, with whom he barbered for several years. Harry had a twin sister Mary Catherine. He and his brother Harry cut hair in St. Marys from 1962 to 1993. Harry died suddenly of a heart attach in September, 1993. He was 55 years old. Jerry said he remembered the ambulance coming by the golf course where he was playing golf and commenting about the tragedy of someone dying, not knowing at the time it was his brother. With 50 years as a barber and 47 years in St. Marys, Jerry Rentz got to know thousands of people in both St. Marys and the surrounding area. We estimated he knows better than 50,000 people, many of who have now passed on. He has been in business on Spring Street in St. Marys longer than anyone except Dick Hudson, the jeweler. Noble and Montague (and Moul) have been in St. Marys a long time, but not as long at a Store Front as Hudson and Rentz have. While I interviewed him, several customers came and went each with their own stories and memories of Jerry Rentz. It was a special year also for customer Joe Oen who is celebrating 50 years of marriage. Paul Wein of Spencerville who had brought his grandson Matt for a haircut said he liked Jerry because he was dependable and on time. Ron Selby said Jerry Rentz was both personable and efficient. Jerry said the problem today that barbers no longer go through a period of time as an intern and that way miss out on some important training. Sure, you need to know how to cur hair, but you also need to know how to get along with people and how to handle the bookkeeping aspects of the business. Probably nobody knows more about St. Marys and the surrounding community than Jerry does. He remembers the time one customer grabbed the clippers and took a chunk out of another customer’s beard. “I never let another customer have an opportunity to do that again.” He remembers the day the Glass Block building burned down. “I always came in the back way along the lake and I could see the burning some blocks away. When I got up to the east side of down I could see it wasn’t the barber shop and knew I still had a job. The area smelled for a long time.”
Over 50 years he has collected a lot of momentos some of which hang on the wall. One is a picture of a line of men unloading into the lake with the caption, “Every little bit helps.” Another is a photo of the annual SMAKO with a couple guys dressed as an elephant crossing the building tops at the corner of Spring Street. Jerry said the rest of the story is that these two actors died from a fall at their next performance down the road. There is also a caption about how important things don’t get done because the barbers are too busy cutting hair. Jerry knows a lot of the rest of the stories. He is reminded every year on his birthday of the young kids from Minster killed at a crossroad near Marion Local School on March 7. He remembers Lovey Dickson who delivered Penny Savers all over the county from his coaster wagon. And local poet Bob Sampson and Murv who lived at the Fort Barbee Hotel. He has a running account not only of what has happened in St. Marys, but what is happening now. He is familiar with efforts being made to buy up the town and reestablish downtown events. Probably at some time every man in the community stops by Rentz’s Barber Shop. Jerry Rentz likes people and people like him. He treats his customers with respect and knows when to talk and when to shut up. He could write a book and it would be a good one full of personal stories with insight and humor. His hobbies include golf, NASCAR racing, and movies. He said his favorite movie is “Caddy Shack” with Steve Martin. On his tombstone he recommends the words, “I told you I was sick.” Finally he seldom passes out advice except when someone asked him about going into a partnership. I recommended it was not a good idea. I remember first hand the difficulties my brother and I had. One of the people who had most influence on his life was his high school football Coach Moore, Jerry played guard on this high school football team. Coach Moore had a way with kids. He left the area to take a job at a high school in St. Joseph, Indiana when then went on to coach at Notre Dame with the famous Ara Parseghian.
Ron Selby praises Jerry Rentz' hair cut Hours at the barbershop are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m; and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Once in a while he closes the shop and takes a long weekend with his family who go to Bristol to watch the races. No matter where he goes, he knows people. His son John said the same one time when they were miles away from home, “Dad, no matter where we go, you know someone.” And not only that, he knows something about everyone and can tell you a story if you have a couple minutes. Customers drive hundreds of miles for a haircut from Jerry Rentz as my bother does from Germantown, Ohio. He’s a good barber and people like him. We congratulate him on his 50 years as a barber and thank him for the positive impact he has had on thousands of people, including you and me. NEWS UPDATE FOR AUGUST 4, 2008 SECTION III Jason Romer Addresses Economic Development Breakfast
Jason Romer Over 100 local educators and business leaders met for the Economic Development Breakfast at the new Overdrive Center (former Carousel) on July 31. Economic Development Director Larry Stelzer introduced members of the head table, including his staff Susan McKanna and Linda Brackman and Jason and Alicia Romer, owners of Overdrive. (Note: there is an earlier interview with Alicia in the story dated June 14, 2008 entitled “Overdrive Teen Center to Open July 11”) Mr. Stelzer began by introducing Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey who praised the Romers for opening the new teen center which will “Provide the kids with something safe to do….it will help keep our kids safe.”
Larry Stelzer, Economic Development Director, welcomes guests to program Jason recalled the day he voted at a Sheriff’s sale to buy the place. He told the group how he and his wife had driver by the place many times, dreaming to some day buy it. They brought the building in the fall, but it was February, 2008 before they were in the building to begin remodeling. Alicia put over 60 gallons of paint on the interior. A new roof was installed and the facilities were cleaned up and over 30 games installed. Jason and Alicia met with 25 students from across the county to get their ideas including the name of the place, Overdrive. In the summer, they will be open on Friday nigfht and during the school year, they will be open on Saturday nights. Hours will be 8:30 to 12:30. Cost is $8; cost of games is free. The Romers have been in the schools collecting ID cards with now over 1600 collected. The cards will be to manage entries as well as any discipline problem that may occur. Students who do not follow procedures will be kicked out permanently. Overdrive is open for students grades 9,10,11, and 12.
Alicia Romer, co-owner/manager of Overdrive This Friday will be Girls Night will girls admitted free for the first hour. Parents will be permitted only to the outer entry way. There are security lights and six people who will be security officers. First Saturday will be August 23. (Note: there are photos of Overdrive on the people page of knappsnews.)
NEWS UPDATE FOR AUGUST 4, 2008 SECTION IV Heritage Center Approves By-Laws
Maurice Cron, Dr. Tom Knapke, Barbara Kremer, Eric Thomas; Larry Stelzer, Floyd Winner, Jack Shanking, Bob Bruns Following a year of dreaming and planning the Agricultural and Industrial Center became official on July 30, 2008 in the Council Room of the Coldwater Village Chambers. President Floyd Winner called the meeting to order. Present were president Floyd Winner; secretary Barbara Kremer; treasurer Maurie Cron; Larry Stelzer, Eric Thomas, Dr. Tom Knapke, Jack Shanking, Bob Bruns. Absent were Jerry Meyer, vice president; and Phil Neumann. The group approved the by-laws as reviewed by attorney Judy Koesters. The by-laws include purpose, principal office (123 West Sycamore Street, Coldwater), membership, Board of Directors, Order of Business, Officers, Committees, Indemnification, financial administrations, Director of the Center, Tax Exempt Provisions, Miscellaneous. The group agreed that secretary Barbara Bruns will also serve as statutory agent. Next the group approved the Revised Articles of Incorporation, also reviewed by attorney Judy Koesters. Specifically, “the corporation (Agricultural and Industrial Heritage Center, Inc.) is formed for the purpose of preserving, exploring, celebrating, and promoting the rich industrial and agricultural heritage of the West Central Ohio region. The corporation objectives are to operate and maintain a heritage center that will house artifacts of bygone and existing area industries that have produced products of worldwide acclaim. The heritage center will exhibit these keepsakes so as to allow present and future generations to study the industries’ methods of operation and employee work ethic that made these businesses successful.” The committee tabled the formation of the acquisition and deacquisition committee. The committee briefly discuss future lease agreements. Owner, Bob Bruns explained the steps the directors need to take with the EPA that involves the entire building despite the fact that the actual acquisition by the Heritage Center will be much less. By enclosing $20 with the filing of the Articles of Incorporation which will cost $125, the committee understands that will get the Articles of Incorporation back much sooner. State Representative Jim Zehringer has been working with the committee and will seek a line item to help with the approval and financing of the new Heritage Center. Based on the discussion it is my understanding that the committee has $20,000 of funds at the Civic Foundation to help initiate the center. The Civic Center Director Glen Hux was on hand for the meeting and for a photo of the group.
The norheast corner of the old Agco building which was once offices may someday be the location of the Agricultural and Industrial Center After the meeting, several members of the group went to see first hand the location of the former AGCO facility that will be used to house the new Agricultural and Industrial Heritage Center. Plans are to convert the former office area at the northeast corner of the building to the center. Among the plans are to provide a section of hands-on display where students and adults can actually demonstrate working parts. As the official paperwork is completed, the acquisition and deacquisition committee will be organized. One of the members explained that the committee not only needs an official way to obtain donations as well as dispose of donations no longer wanted. Much thought and time has gone into this project at this point; and much will follow. The heritage center has long been a dream of many; now through the efforts of this group and the support of the county and area much will follow. The next meeting will be Tuesday, August 5 at 9 a.m.
NEWS UPDATE FOR AUGUST 4, 2008 ELVIS TO BE SPOTTED AT BREMENFEST (New Bremen) If you’ve been looking for Elvis, be sure to check at the Crown Pavilion on Sunday evening, August 17. Mike Albert will present his “Ultimate Tribute” to the King of Rock & Roll beginning at 6:30 pm. The “Ultimate Tribute” features a seven-piece group - the “Big E Band” - that emulates the sound of the original Elvis back-up group. Mike’s style and Charisma and his ability to get the audience involved in the show have proven to be a big part of his success over the years. The “Ultimate Tribute” will be playing in venues all across Ohio, New York and Pennsylvania this summer. The Bremenfest appearance adds to the entertainment lineup that begins on Friday night, August 15, with the “Staples” band and continues Saturday with “Spectrum” and “The Red Ball Jets”. All of the Bremenfest entertainment is free. The “Ultimate Tribute” performance on Sunday evening is sponsored by Homan & Stucke Construction and Master Machine Rebuilders, both of New Bremen. The 34th Annual Bremenfest begins with Opening Ceremonies and crowning of the 2008 Bremenfest Queen and Little Miss Bremenfest at 7:00 pm Friday, August 15. Saturday’s events will include the popular Bike Tour, Chili Cook-off, and the return of the Classic Car Show. Kids’ activities will include crafts, fishing derby, punt-pass-kick, and big wheel races. The big Bremenfest Parade will step off along Washington Street at 1:00 on Sunday, August 17. For a complete schedule and detailed information, visit www.bremenfest.com.
Chuck Gamble to Speak At AG Breakfast The next Ag Breakfast is scheduled for THURSDAY, August 7, 2008 at 7:32 am in the Large First Floor Conference Room of the Central Services Building. Breakfast will be $6.00. Chuck Gamble, manager of Farm Science Review, will present information on the upcoming Farm Science Review. Please RSVP to Nikki by phone or e-mail on or before August 4th so that we may have an accurate count for the meal.
Celina Police Arrest Man for Tampering with EvidenceA Celina man is being held on a $500,000 bond in connection with a shooting incident that occurred early Sunday morning, July 27. Celina officers responded to a call of shots being fired at a house in the 400 block of N. Brandon Ave. at 3:58 AM. Officers checked the area but located no suspects at the scene. No one was injured during the incident and no damage was found to the homes in the area, but shell casings found at the scene supported the reports of gunfire from the victim and other witnesses. During the follow-up investigation officers stopped at the home of a suspect to attempt to speak with him. The suspect barricaded himself in a bedroom, but eventually came on without incident. He was ultimately taken into custody on a charge of Tampering With Evidence, a third degree felony. Robert Mowery, (34), 614 Lisle St., Celina, is currently being held in the Mercer County Jail. He made an initial appearance in court on Monday and was ordered held on the $500,000 bond, which is subject to 10%. Mowery is scheduled for a Preliminary Hearing on August 05, 2008.
Lake Festival Police Report and StatsThe crowds attending the Celina Lake Festival created very few problems for law enforcement, although two local residents did sustain injuries from a traffic crash that occurred Saturday night. Andy W. Hurt, (21), of Celina was passing through the intersection of Main Street & Washington Street, on a 1995 Honda motorcycle when he was struck by Nicholas G. Fisher, (16), of Coldwater. Fisher was attempting to make a left turn onto Washington St. and failed to see Hurt approaching. Both Hurt and his passenger, Elise N. Hertenstein, (20), of Celina were transported by the Mercer County EMS to Coldwater Community Hospital. Neither Fisher or his passengers were injured. Both vehicles received non-functional damage and Fisher was cited for Failure to Yield on a Left Turn. While the motorcyclists involved did sustain injuries, overall the traffic control efforts put in place for Lake Festival weekend appear to have completed their goal in reducing the potential for serious property damage or injury during the heavy traffic congestion caused by Lake Festival crowds. The lane detours slowed traffic and reduced the seriousness of this crash, which could have easily been life-threatening if normal traffic speeds had been allowed. * * A 20-year old female was charged with disorderly conduct after complaints that she was exposing herself to onlookers while riding one of the carnival rides along Lakeshore Drive. Jamie L. Webb, of Kettering, Ohio, reportedly lowered the top of her dress and exposed her breasts as the ride passed her in front of friends standing outside the fenced-in ride area. Officers working the festival area received two complaints before they reached the ride and observed the incident. Webb was served with a summons for disorderly conduct and asked to leave the festival. * * * Jason Now, (33), 5192 Gause Rd. Celina, was charged with disorderly conduct after he refuse to heed warnings from officers concerning his actions during a demonstration near Main & Fayette Streets in downtown Celina. Now and two companions were holding signs and passing out pamphlets supporting their religious beliefs at the southeast corner of Main & Fayette. The did this, speaking with subjects that stopped to talk with them, for about an hour. Around 12:57AM, Mr. Now began yelling loudly, to preach gospel remarks and warn bystanders of their sins. His comments could be heard by officers over a block away on both Main Street and Fayette Street. He also directed some of his comments to the crowd standing outside of Club Oasis on the west side of Main Street. His directed remarks were inciting the crowd causing them to become loud and belligerent towards the demonstrators. An officer explained to Now that the way he was yelling and targeting the bystanders was placing him at risk for arrest. Now quieted for only a few minutes, then again began yelling loudly at the crowd. He was placed under arrest for disorderly conduct and removed from the area. The other two subjects that were with him were told they were welcome to continue their original activities, but if they insisted on screaming derogatory comments to the crowd, that were likely to provoke a violent response, they would also be subject to arrest. They then packed up their signs and left. Now is scheduled to appear in Celina Municipal on Monday afternoon. * * * In addition to the incidents mentioned previously, here are some general statistics concerning this year’s Celina Lake Festival. From 12:01 AM Friday through Midnight Sunday Celina Police Department personnel logged 376 hours of shift duty and 231 hours on overtime assignments. There were 283 Calls for Service logged during that same time period. These resulted in 34 Offense Reports. Officers issued 21 traffic citations including four OVI arrests, and made 18 criminal arrest during the festival period. This included seven alcohol related arrests and one felony charge Although it had been the subject of much concern and pre-planning, the bridge construction at US 127 and Beaver Creek caused no traffic problems during the festival, other than the normal delays created by the traffic light cycle.
The Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart, is announcing the closing of Philothea Road between Township Line Road and Post Road in Butler Township for pipe replacements. This structure will be closed tentatively on July 30, 2008 and is scheduled to reopen in approximately 4-6 weeks, depending on the weather conditions. Any questions, contact the Mercer County Engineer's Office at 419-586-7759.
Generous Gift From Stammen Insurance and Financial
Services
Mercer County Pheasants Forever Chapter 745 Fish Fry / Corn Roast / Trap & Skeet Shoot Saturday August 16, 2008 – 4:00 pm to ????? Will Be Held At The: Mercer County Sportsmen Association State Route 703 6 miles East of Celina across from Carter Lumber Trap and Skeet Shoot 4:00 – 6:30 All You Can Eat Fish and Corn 6:30 - ????? Tickets: Adult- $20.00 Youth (16 and Under) - $10.00 Ticket Price Includes Clay Birds, Dinner, and Drinks Adult Beverages Will Be Served After Firearms Are Put Away All Proceeds Will Be Used Locally to Benefit Youth Hunts and Wildlife Habitat Improvement Projects For Tickets Contact: Bill Knapke – 419-375-1059 Brian Miller – 419-268-2839
Dominion East Gas Customers Warned of Misleading Letter COLUMBUS, Ohio –
July 31, 2008 – A customer letter sent to potentially thousands of
Dominion East Ohio customers could mislead those residents into
believing that the utility will stop supplying natural gas in the coming
months, the Office of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel said today. Contrary
to the claims of the marketer, Dominion East Ohio Energy, customers will
not be automatically switched if they do not choose a supplier.
Customers still have the choice of staying with Dominion East Ohio.
Governor Ted Strickland ODA Director Robert J. Boggs Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher ODH Director Alvin D. Jackson, M.D.
To: Health Commissioners, Environmental Health Directors, Nursing Directors, ODA Food Safety Specialists, and Other Interested Parties Subject: FDA Extends Consumer Warning on Serrano Peppers from Mexico Date: July 31, 2008 Made Available thanks to Dale Palmer, Mercer County Health Department
FDA Extends Consumer Warning on Serrano Peppers from MexicoLaboratory testing by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has confirmed that both a sample of serrano pepper and a sample of irrigation water collected by agency investigators on a farm in the state of Nuevo Leon, Mexico, contain Salmonella Saintpaul with the same genetic fingerprint as the strain of bacteria that is causing the current outbreak in the United States. As a result, until further notice, the FDA is advising consumers to avoid raw serrano peppers from Mexico, in addition to raw jalapeño peppers from Mexico, and any foods that contain them. The test results are part of the FDA's continuing intensive investigation into the outbreak of Salmonella Saintpaul. The investigation has involved tracing back, through complex distribution channels, the origins of products associated with clusters of illness in the United States, as well as inspections and evaluation of farms and facilities in this country and in Mexico, and the collection and testing of environmental and product samples. One of these tracebacks led to a packing facility in Mexico, and to a particular farm, where the agency obtained the samples. Previously, FDA inspectors collected a positive sample of jalapeño pepper from a produce-distribution center owned by Agricola Zaragosa in McAllen, Texas. The FDA continues to work on pinpointing where and how in the supply chain this first positive jalapeño pepper sample became contaminated. It originated from a different farm in Mexico than the positive samples of serrano pepper and irrigation water. The FDA is still analyzing many of the samples taken at various farms in Mexico. If laboratory results warrant, the FDA will provide consumers with additional cautions or warnings necessary to protect their health. On July 17, the FDA announced it had determined that fresh tomatoes now available in the domestic market are not associated with the current outbreak. As a result, the agency removed its June 7 warning against eating certain types of red raw tomatoes.
For more information consult
Ft. Recovery FFA Chapter Attends Summer Camp
FT. RECOVERY, OH – Eight members of the Ft. Recovery FFA Chapter recently attended FFA Camp in Carrolton, Ohio the week of July 14-18. FFA Camp is held each summer for Ohio FFA members and encourages students to develop their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success. The current state officer team, summer program staff, and camp staff joined together to provide an opportunity to meet members from chapters across the state. During the week, campers participated in basketball, soccer, water polo, table tennis, shotgun and rifle range, and other tournaments; attended state officer led leadership sessions, workshops and campfires; and enjoyed swimming, canoeing and motor boating on Leesville Lake. Staff members led campers through Adventure Valley, a ground initiative course designed to promote teamwork, communication and trust. Advanced campers participated in overnighter activities and the high ropes course. Campers raised money during the week to put a "Pie-In-The-Eye" of their favorite advisor, state officer, or staff member with all proceeds going to Children’s Hospital. Ft. Recovery FFA members attending camp included Laura Braun, Kelsey Brockman, Riggs Florence, Caitlin Gehret, Jessie Link, Emily Schoenlein, Shelby Westgerdes, and Stacy Will. Ft. Recovery’s own Chris Gehret, Ohio FFA State Officer, helped run FFA camp for 3 weeks this summer, providing workshops on teamwork, communication, and leadership. NEWS UPDATE FOR JULY 30, 2008
Kenneth and Gage Short At the July 28 meeting, Kenneth Short and his son Gage thanked the Fair Board for the installation of the handicap ramp installed at the Grand Stand. It was the Short family who had come to the Fair Board a couple years ago seeking the installation of a handicap ramp. “My son always enjoys the demo derby and in the past we had to have people carry his wheel chair up in the Grand Stand so he could see.” President Steve Seitz thanked Gage and his father for bringing the matter to the Fair Board’s attention. The Build |
