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THE OUTLOOK - Starting our 8th Year in 2012

Van Wert Nips Celina

Bulldogs lose a tough one to Van Wert 63 to 61 at the Fieldhouse in WBL action.

CLICK HERE - more pictures of meet by Nancy Heppeard

DIVING DOGS at WBL Championship!

by Dan Otten

Thursday, January 26 the Western Buckeye League began competition in the 2011-12 Swimming and Diving Championship Meet, with the Boys and Girls Diving event. The Celina Diving Dog contingent, year in and year out one of the best in the WBL, once again demonstated its depth and talent. By evening's end the Ladies tallied 45 points to lead the Girls 'team' standings, while the Boys totaled 49 to top the Boys standings. Celina's Girls placed 2-3-4-6, with Boys taking 1-3-4-5.

Collen Byer led the way for the Diving Dogs as he picked up an individual WBL Championship. Collen amassed 387.25 points in the 11-dive format. Tye Spengler, Charlie Folk, and Leyton Schoen followed with 3rd, 4th, and 5th place results respectively. The Ladies were headed by the Runner-Up finish of Dethora Hasenjager. Dethora totaled 282.90 points to capture the silver medal. Right behind, in the 3rd, 4th, and 6th spots were Diving Dogs Olivia Schlotterer, Julia Folk and Claire Schmitmeyer.

CLICK HERE - more pictures of meet by Nancy Heppeard

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS COUNCIL 1592 PRESENT SAVINGS BOND TO BABY

The local Knights of Columbus, Council 1592, Pro-Life Committee Chairman, Joe Kuebler, presents a $50 savings bond to Madison Elizabeth Wendeln, the first baby born at Joint Township District Memorial Hospital on or after January 22, 2012, the March for Life day.

This year is the 39th anniversary of the Supreme Court’s controversial 1973 decision legalizing abortion on demand in this country. “We pray that the Supreme Court’s decision will one day be overturned,” states Kuebler.

Madison Elizabeth was born on Monday, January 23 at 11:42 pm. She weighed 7 lbs, 14.5 oz and was 20 inches long. She is welcomed by her parents Anne & Joe Wendeln of Minster and big brother Michael with Joe Kuebler, Knights of Columbus Council 1592.

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.

WOEF Board Celebrates 50 Years

Supporting Students…Transforming Communities

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.

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.

Find out more information by contacting http://www.wright.edu/lake/about/woef.html

CELINA CITY COUNCIL Committee Meeting

Personnel & Finance Committee

Meeting Topic: Budget

Mendon Man Charged In Break-ins

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today his office will be filing numerous charges against a Mendon man regarding numerous area break-ins of local businesses. Douglas N. Fonner, age 27, of 5922 Tama Road, Mendon, is currently being held in the Mercer County Detention Center on charges of Contempt of Court for violating a condition of bond in a prior breaking and entering case.

Deputies believe he was involved in breaking into several businesses in the last several months in Mercer County, including:

Coldwater Grain North, on December 1, 2011 
where cash was taken

Mercer Landmark in Chatt, on December 17, 2011 
where cash, tools and a TV was removed

Burkettsville Garage on January 5, 2012 where 
cash was taken

Five Brothers Tavern, Burkettsville on January 5, 
2012 where cash, cigarettes, alcohol and two 
televisions were stolen

Deputies also suspect the male was involved in burglaries in other counties including, Darke, Van Wert, Auglaize and Shelby Counties. These cases will be referred to the appropriate investigating agency.

Mercer County's First Fatal Traffic Crash

The investigation revealed that the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, Lucas E. Staugler, age 22, of 208 Gwendolyn St., Ft. Recovery, was westbound on Mercer-Darke County Line Rd. driving a 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix, and went off the right side (North) of the roadway, where he struck a utility pole. The vehicle came to rest in a field. Mr. Staugler was pronounced dead at the scene. He was not wearing a seatbelt.

Mercer County deputies were assisted at the scene by Darke County deputies, as well as members of the Burkettsville Fire Department, Osgood rescue squad and MCERV.

View - Coldwater School Board Agenda - 1-24-12

Annual Report for 2011 from Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart

Celina High School's Freshman Scholars named

Recently named members of Celina High School's Freshman Scholars program are: Front row, JT Irmscher, CJ's Highmarks, Anna Schmackers, Ashley Lochtefeld, Nadine Kleman, Allison Darras, Hannah Glass and Emma Hawkins.

Back Row, Shawn Mason, Nathaniel Stoner, Joel Weitz, Stephen Fleck, James Luebke, Savannah Mick and Jason Luebke, Celina High School principal.

Pictured above are Celina High School's Freshman Scholars. These current freshman were ranked as the top 10 students (12 due to ties) in their class at the end of the first trimester of the 2011-2012 school year.

The Freshman scholars program was started to encourage students to set high academic standards at the beginning of their high school careers.

Celina High Academic and Motivational Promoters (CHAMP) recognized them with letters of commendation and gift cards to CJ's Highmarks, donated by JT Irmscher, General Manager. Their names also appear in the academic honors display case at the high school.

CHAMP is a non-profit parent group that was organized in 1993. They strive to reach all students by offering incentives and recognizing exceptional effort and accomplishment in academic and personal endeavors.

New Chamber Member

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 and 
Twyla Hayes, Brandit Marketing & Chamber Ambassador

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

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy

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.

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.”

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

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.

Mercer County Sheriff Office Investigating Death

At 07:52 hours deputies were dispatched to 5139 Brown Road, when the residents there discovered a vehicle in their pond with a body lying near a garage there.

It appeared Mr. Boise drove off the roadway through a large area of field. It further appears he attempted to drive back onto the roadway and accidentally drove into the pond. He was able to escape his vehicle but was unable to make it to the residence for assistance. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Sheriff’s deputies were assisted at the scene by the Celina EMS services as well as the Coldwater Police Department.

Celina Couple Faces Drug Charges

Baker and Heath

(1-13-12) - Formal charges have been filed against a Celina couple in connection with search warrants that were served on a Celina residence on Wednesday. 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.

Volunteers Needed to Help Measure Rain and Predict Floods

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

Grant Money Benefits Red Cross Disaster Volunteers

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.

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

Drug Bust In Celina

Before a search warrant for the trailer could be obtained, one of the suspects returned home. Contact was made upon his return. The Celina Police Department’s canine, TED, checked the vehicle that the suspect arrived in and alerted to the presence of drugs within that vehicle. Search warrants for the suspect’s vehicle and the trailer were secured and officers served the warrants upon both the car and home at approximately 5:10PM Wednesday.

Heroin, with a street value of approximately $1400, was found in the vehicle. Also confiscated from the 2006 Pontiac Grand Prix was small foil bindle containing plastic and possible residual illegal substances. A small amount of cash that was present with the suspected heroin was also held. The vehicle was impounded by the Celina Police Department.

Inside the trailer officers recovered a small amount of marijuana, a 9mm Beretta pistol and a small amount of cash. Statements from the suspects indicate that the heroin that was recovered in the vehicle had just been purchased in Dayton that afternoon.

The couple, who live at the residence, was taken into custody and are being held at the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility. Their names are being withheld pending the filing of formal charges. Those charges are expected to be filed on Thursday afternoon. The investigation into the distribution of heroin from this location is being continued by members of the Celina Police Department and the Grand Lake Drug Task Force.

Wright State Police Department Announces New Hire at Lake Campus

Officer Tyler Pottkotter to take post January 23

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.

Grube Homicide Update

Since the last release of information to the press, detectives and agents have conducted 17 interviews, bringing the total of interviews to nearly 90 people. 15 new tips were followed up on bringing the total tips followed up on to 73. 17 new court orders/subpoenas were requested and issued bringing the total to 63. 1 additional search warrant was issued bringing the total to 11 and 17 new pieces of evidence were recovered.

Some final lab reports are starting to come in on evidence that was submitted to them and some preliminary information is still coming in from the labs. While we don’t have all the piece of the puzzle, we are beginning to try to put them together.

“Murder has no statute of limitations, so we are gathering everything possible to help solve the crime now, in the event it is not solved in the immediate future, we need to have all the information to be utilized later. It is important to solve this case, but we have to ensure that we get it right. It is important to make an arrest, but we must be able to get a conviction, and we have to be absolutely certain we have the right offenders,” stated Sheriff Grey.

What we know with relative certainty:

Colleen was last seen alive shortly after 5 PM on Tuesday, November 29

Colleen and Robert were found deceased by a family member bound with duct tape and shot on November 30 at approximately 9 AM

Investigators have narrowed the time of the incident to a two hour window

Investigators have developed information that at least one male and one female offender were present at the time

Missing from the scene is a laptop computer

At the present time investigators are reviewing thousands of pages of information that has been recovered during the investigation.

Additional Note: The Grube investigation lead to information that was turned over to the Darke County Sheriff’s Office that resulted in the following press release from Darke County. An additional stolen vehicle was recovered near Mendon as a result of the same information. The original information came to Mercer County from the Jay County, IN Sheriff’s Office. The 3 Sheriff’s Offices and Ohio BCI&I worked together to share the information.

5 ARRESTED IN METHAMPHETAMINE LAB BUST

A search of the residence yielded evidence that there was an active clandestine methamphetamine lab in operation there at that time. Members from the Darke County Clandestine Lab Unit dismantled the operation and neutralized any and all potential safety issues that were present. Traffic flow on SR571 was temporarily interrupted during the morning work flow.

Two adult females, three adult males and a 7 year old juvenile boy were removed from the residence without incident by the Darke County Special Response Team. Custody of the 7 year old boy was turned over to Darke County Children’s Services.

Arrested was Christina Melchor age 34, Manuel Melchor age 33 and Bryant Rhoades age 21 of that address. Also arrested was Christopher Brock age 46 of Winchester, IN and Letisha Parker age 20 of Portland, IN. All arrestees were transported to the Darke County Jail where each are being held, pending charges for Illegal Manufacturing of Methamphetamine and Child Endangering. Photos of those arrested will be available when the booking process is complete and can be accessed by visiting our website at www.darkecountysheriff.org .

This case remains under investigation by Darke County Sheriff’s Office.

Miss Ohio 2011 Ellen Bryan tells Amway & Artistry about the platform that helped her become nominated for the Quality of Life Award.

Bridge Inspection

“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.

City of Celina Starts A New Era

photo courtesy of Kevin Sandler

(1-9-12) New Celina Mayor Jeff Hazel (standing) with rcently appointed safety service director Tom Hitchcock moments before tonight's Celina City Council Meeting at City Hall. The meeting was the first for the pair after Hazel defeated incumbent Mayor Sharon LaRue in November. Hazel was a former Celina safety service director and Hitchcock arrives after serving in the same position on the other side of the lake in St. Marys.

Celina School Board Agenda - January 9, 2012

New Rehab Unit Coming To Mercer Health

Construction of the new Mercer Health Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Department at Mercer County Community Hospital has begun. Shown here is the future consultation office and warm up area.

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 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.

Jan 4, 2012 - Florida Parade (Orlando Citrus Parade) 2011: St Henry High School Marching Band

Solicitation Scam

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.

Stateline 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!

Celina Crash Stats Released

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.

State of the Heart Hospice Receives Gift From Jewelry Store

Laudick’s Jewelry Store in Coldwater recently presented State of the Heart Hospice with a check for $431. Laudick’s sells a unique jewelry line called Sarah’s Hope. During the month of December, for each piece of Sarah’s Hope jewelry purchased, a portion of the purchase price went as a donation to State of the Heart. Store Manager Wendy Stukey said the fund raiser was “an opportunity to give back locally.” State of the Heart, with offices in Coldwater, Greenville and Portland, cares for patients and families in eastern Indiana and western Ohio who are confronting a life limiting illness. Wendy is pictured here with Ryan Gathard, Fund Development Director for State of the Heart with some of the jewelry in the foreground.

Ft. Recovery FFA Announces Top Fruit Sellers

Picture L-R are Fort Recovery FFAs Top Fruit Sellers Jamieson Hess, Jessica Kaiser, and 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

Picture L-R are Fort Recovery FFA members Jessica Kaiser, Eric Brackman, and Adam Fullenkamp who recently competed in the Ag Communication Contest.

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.

New Year’s Fatalities increase this Holiday Weekend

COLUMBUS – New Year’s Holiday fatalities have increased over last year’s holiday weekend. During this New Year’s Holiday reporting period of Midnight, Friday, December 30, 2011 through 11:59 p.m., Monday January, 2, 2012, 13 people were killed on Ohio’s roadways.

This is an increase of three deaths from last year when 10 were killed during the same reporting period. Of this New Year’s Holiday fatalities, nearly half of those killed were not wearing a safety belt.

“Wearing a safety belt is the best way to protect yourself during a crash,” explained Colonel John Born, Patrol superintendent. “Between buckling-up and driving sober – far too many of these fatal crashes are preventable.”

For a complete breakdown of the Patrol’s holiday enforcement please visit http://statepatrol.ohio.gov/doc/newyears_2012.pdf

The public is encouraged to continue using 1-877-7-PATROL to report dangerous or impaired drivers, as well as stranded motorists.

CLICK HERE - Village of Rockford Special Council Minutes - 12-27-11

Patrol: Ohio on pace to reach lower traffic fatalities in 2011

Holiday Weekend deaths down nearly 43 percent from last year – Reaching a four-year low

“We are seeing positive results from the hard work of our troopers on the road everyday removing impaired and dangerous drivers from the roadways,” said Colonel John Born, Patrol superintendent. “As the Patrol’s OVI arrests increase, we are seeing a direct correlation in the decrease of overall fatalities.”

Year-to-date troopers have made an additional 1,500 more OVI arrests than when compared to the same time period last year.

During this past holiday reporting period of Midnight, December 23 through 11:59 a.m. on December 26, eight people were killed, with one death attributed to impaired driving. This represents a nearly 43 percent decline in fatalities from last year when 14 people were killed and the lowest amount of Christmas Holiday fatalities in the past four years. In addition, Patrol OVI arrests increased more than 28 percent. For a complete statistical recap of the Patrol’s Holiday enforcement visit http://statepatrol.ohio.gov/doc/christmas_2011.pdf

With the upcoming New Year’s Holiday, the Patrol is asking motorists to help Ohio achieve a record year by not driving impaired, buckling-up and keeping their focus on the road. During last year’s holiday reporting period of Midnight on December 30, 2010, through 11:59 p.m. on January 2, 2011 – 10 people lost their lives on Ohio’s roadways, with 70 percent of these deaths involving an impaired driver.

The public is encouraged to continue using 1-877-7-PATROL to report dangerous or impaired drivers, as well as stranded motorists.

Update on Grube Investigation

audio courtesy Kevin Sandler, WCSM Radio

CLICK HERE - Sheriff Grey Talks About Investigation

Investigators have narrowed the time of the incident to a possible two hour window, but are still requesting the public to provide any suspicious information on November 29-November 30. It also appears that multiple perpetrators were present at the time, possibly a male and a female. Missing from the residence is a Toshiba laptop computer and there were no signs of forced entry into the home.

Investigators have conducted more than 70 interviews, followed up on approximately 60 tips, requested the issuance of 46 court orders and subpoenas and served 11 search warrants.

“While we still don’t know who committed this terrible crime,” stated Sheriff Grey, “we have collected volumes of evidence that I believe will eventually lead us to the killers.”

“This case will not result in an arrest quickly, but I am confident that the case will be solved,” stated Sheriff Grey.

The Sheriff’s Office continues to ask anyone with any information to contact the Sheriff’s Office through the tip line at 567-890-8477 or through the website at www.mercercountysheriff.org.

We appreciate all of the help from the public and the patience of the media while we continue to focus on this crime.

Mercer Health Home Care Nurse Receives OASIS Certification

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.

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.

Holiday Food Drive

State of the Heart Hospice employees recently held a holiday food drive, dressing casually on Fridays in exchange for non-perishable food donations. Donations were then given to Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Coldwater, which has been operating a food pantry for over 30 years. Donations were also given to local food pantries in Greenville and Portland, where State of the Heart’s other offices are located. Pictured left to right: State of the Heart Medical Secretary Toni Klosterman and Father Barry Stechschulte of Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

Ohio State Statement On NCAA Sanctions

“We are surprised and disappointed with the NCAA’s decision,” said Gene Smith, Ohio State’s Athletics Director and Associate Vice President. “However, we have decided not to appeal the decision because we need to move forward as an institution. We recognize that this is a challenging time in intercollegiate athletics. Institutions of higher education must move to higher ground, and Ohio State embraces its leadership responsibilities and affirms its long-standing commitment to excellence in education and integrity in all it does.

“My primary concern, as always, is for our students, and this decision punishes future students for the actions of others in the past,” said Smith. “Knowing our student-athletes, however, I have no doubt in their capacity to turn this into something positive – for themselves and for the institution. I am grateful to our entire Buckeye community for their continued support.”

Smith noted that President E. Gordon Gee and the university’s Board of Trustees are in the process of concluding their examination of compliance at the university as part of a larger effort to develop a comprehensive, state-of-the-art model for the entire institution, including the athletics program. “All of us at Ohio State are determined to ensure that our compliance programs and protocols are best in class,” said Smith. “We will assume a leadership role in representing our university and its values.

“It is important to remember that Ohio State has one of the nation’s largest self supporting athletics programs, with students succeeding both in competition and in the classroom,” said Smith. “We have more than 1,000 students who compete in 36 intercollegiate sports, and the overall grade-point average of our student-athletes is just over 3.0. During the last two years, the University has had more student-athletes named to the Academic All-Big Ten Team than any other school. Further, Ohio State finished second in last year’s Directors’ Cup, which recognizes the best athletics programs in the country.”

Documents related to Ohio State’s NCAA investigation can be found at http://www.osu.edu/news/ncaadocs/

New Chamber Member

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 and George Moore- Chamber Trustee

New Celina Mayor To Hire Bryan

story courtesy Kevin Sandler, WCSM Radio

CLICK HERE - Hazel Comments on Bryan Hiring

13 Arrested in Auglaize County Drug Arrests

The Auglaize/Mercer County Grand Lake Drug Task Force along with area officers worked together to make the 13 arrests. The arrests were a result of a 6 month long investigation and after cases were presented to the Auglaize County Grand Jury.

Those arrested were:

•Alyssa N. Lohr, age 18, Lima, 
Three counts of trafficking in marijuana.
•Jaron Kanorr, age 23, Wapakoneta,
one count trafficking in marijuana.
•Christopher B. Miller, age 21, Wapakoneta, 
one count trafficking in marijuana.
•Gunnar H. Allman, age 20, Wapakoneta, 
three counts trafficking in marijuana.
•Jeff E. Lee, age 29, Wapakoneta, 
six counts trafficking in marijuana.
•Cameron M. Knerr, age 21, Wapakoneta, 
one count trafficking in drugs and 
one count trafficking in marijuana.
•Sarah A. McPheron, age 22, Wapakoneta, 
one count trafficking in marijuana.
•Lisa M. McPheron, age 21, Wapakoneta, 
one count permitting drug abuse, 
two counts trafficking in marijuana.
•Lea R. Barnett, age 39, Wapakoneta, 
four counts trafficking in marijuana.
•Nicholas A. Prinzi, age 23, Wapakoneta, 
four counts trafficking in marijuana.
•Joseph W. Shappell, age 24, Wapakoneta, 
five counts trafficking in marijuana.
•Louis J. Hendricks, age 23, Celina, 
one count trafficking in marijuana.
•Dillon L. Swartz, age 19, St. Marys, 
three counts trafficking in marijuana.

During the arrests a substantial amount of marijuana and money was confiscated along with safe and other drug paraphernalia.

Sheriff Solomon commented on the severity of marijuana stating “with the other dangerous drugs out there that are far more powerful and harmful marijuana is sometimes looked at as non harmful. But, it is still illegal to sell, possess or use. It is still dangerous and as any Police Officer would tell you marijuana is a lot of times the first step into the progression into more dangerous drugs.”

Assisting with the round up were officers from Wapakoneta Police, St. Marys Police, Cridersville Police, Waynesfield Police, and Deputies with the Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office.

Partisan Politics Aside for a Single Primary and Savings for the Tax Payer

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy

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.

WIECHART COMPLETES TERM AS PRESIDENT OF COUNTY ENGINEERS ASSOCIATION OF OHIO

Shown in the picture are: Warren County Engineer Neil Tunison (newly-sworn in CEAO President) and Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart (Immediate Past CEAO President) receiving the ceremonial gavel from Mr. Tunison as a token of Ohio County Engineers’ appreciation of Mr. Wiechart’s efforts as President in 2011.

Mercer County Engineer James (Jim) Wiechart has recently completed his term as President of the County Engineers Association of Ohio. “As selected by my peers, it has been a wonderful honor to serve as CEAO President this year. Some of the accomplishments we have achieved this year involve: streamlining some processes in infrastructure funding, rebuilding of the committee structure of CEAO and creating a detailed guide for future presidents to use as a de facto job description.”

Ohio’s county engineers by law are elected officials and are required to be professionally licensed in engineering and surveying. The County Engineers Association of Ohio (CEAO) has worked to unify its members in their goal to provide the highest quality transportation, drainage and surveying services. The County Engineers Association promotes the safe and efficient movement of people, goods and services and strives to construct solutions for many of the challenges to Ohio’s local infrastructure. The CEAO conducts training for county engineers and staff and administers approximately $158 million in funding for engineers through Ohio.

Drive Impaired and you will be Arrested

Patrol OVI arrests up by more than 1,300

“We are seeing positive results from the hard work of our troopers on the road everyday removing impaired and dangerous drivers from the roadways,” said Colonel John Born, Patrol superintendent. “As the Patrol’s OVI arrests increase, we are seeing a direct correlation in the decrease of overall fatalities.”

Impaired drivers were responsible for 40 percent of the fatal crashes in 2010. Through December 11 of this year, with overall fatalities down four percent, and OVI arrests up 1,383 arrests – Ohio is experiencing a decline of nearly five percent in OVI-related fatalities.

“We can’t fight the battle against impaired driving on our own – We need your commitment to make our roads safe,” said Colonel Born. “You can contribute to a safer Ohio by actively influencing friends and family to make safe, responsible decisions - like planning ahead to designate a driver and insisting that everyone in the vehicle is buckled up, can go a long way toward ensuring tragedies do not occur.”

With the upcoming holidays, the Patrol is reminding drivers that this can be one of the most dangerous times of the year due to an increase in impaired driving. Last year in Ohio, 39 people died in alcohol-related crashes between Thanksgiving and New Year’s.

The public is encouraged to continue using 1-877-7-PATROL to report dangerous drivers, impaired drivers or stranded motorists.

Parkway FBLA Donates to Toys For Tots

Webelos members from Pack 98 Rockford with Mr. Meyers

Mr. Ken Meyers and Miss Tiffany Deitsch at Toys for Tots headquarters

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.

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

Dave Waltermire, energy advisor at Midwest Electric, presents a $2,536 donation to Erin Stein, fiscal manager for SOURCES Community Network Services, to help buy Christmas presents for 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.

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.

Grand Lake Law Enforcement Association Supports Lake Campus Students

CELINA, Ohio –The Grand Lake Law Enforcement Association has made a generous donation to Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) Scholarship Fund. Two WOEF matching scholarships totaling $750 were awarded to two area students. The students who received the scholarship are seated from left: Jeremy Kerr and Ryan Brophy, both from Celina. Behind the students, from left: Mark Ernst, Commander of the Grand Lake Law Enforcement Academy (GLLEA); Kip Wright, GLLEA Instructor; Rick Geier, WOEF Board Member and Calvin Freeman, President of the Grand Lake Law Enforcement Association and Celina Assistant Police Chief.

If you are interested in contributing to scholarship funds at the Lake Campus, please call the WOEF Scholarship office at 419-586-0376.

Patrol offers tips and warnings about driving in winter weather

From December 2010 through March 2011, 37,429 crashes occurred on snow, ice or slush covered roadways killing 46 people and injuring 7,844. Speed was reported as the main cause in 77 percent of these crashes. To view a breakdown of these crashes visit http://www.statepatrol.ohio.gov/doc/Winter_Driving.pdf.

In the event of inclement weather, the Patrol is urging motorists to allow extra time to get to their destination, maintain a safe distance between their vehicle and the traffic ahead, pay close attention to bridges and overpasses - as they are often the first to freeze over – and to drive slowly, as everything including accelerating, turning and braking, take longer on snow-covered roadways.

“In case of a vehicle break-down, motorists should turn on their hazard warning lights, safely position the vehicle as far off the road as possible, call 1-877-7-PATROL for assistance and remain in the vehicle until help arrives,” explained Colonel John Born, Patrol superintendent.

Troopers further suggest that if you get stuck in snow; make sure that your tail pipe is free of all snow and debris, to decrease your chance of carbon monoxide poisoning.

All motorists are encouraged to prepare their vehicle for winter driving by - ensuring that the battery, cooling system, tires, wipers and defroster- are all in working order. Drivers are also encouraged to carry the following winter car kit items in their vehicle in case of a breakdown:

·         Cell phone with car charger
·         Road flares or reflectors
·         Help or Call Police signs
·         First aid kit
·         Flashlight
·         Blanket/Sleeping bag
·         Small shovel
·         Bottled water and energy foods
·         Candles and matches
·         Tow strap/chain
 

Santa House Thank You!

The Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce and its Retail Merchant Committee would like to thank John Dieringer of JD Construction along with Joe Wolfe and the employees of the city of Celina utilities department for their hard work and efforts in moving the house and arranging for electricity. We also appreciate the support of the Courthouse maintenance crew and the Mercer Co. Commissioners. Finally, a big thanks to the Chamber Trustees, Ambassadors and Brenda Robinson who helped decorate the house. Happy Holidays!

Coldwater Burglary

A check of the residence revealed various electronics and money were missing from the home. It was estimated that entry was made sometime between 5:30PM and 7:30PM while the residents were not at home.

If anyone would have noticed anything out of the ordinary during this time in the area, they are asked to please contact the Coldwater Police Department at 419-678-2356. The police department urges citizens to continue to help law enforcement by reporting any suspicious vehicles or persons that are seen regardless of the time of day.

The police department was assisted at the scene by a K-9 unit from the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office.

Parkway FFA Participates in Parliamentary Procedure

Varsity Parli Pro Team

On November 17th, Parkway FFA sent a varsity team to the parliamentary procedure sub-district contest at Delphos Jefferson High School. This Career Development Event helps students gain public speaking skills and become better at running meetings.

The team included President- Caden Hellwarth, Vice President- Destinee Guggenbiller, Secretary- Rachel Hesse, Treasurer- Seth Houts, Reporter-Kylie Snyder, Sentinel-Lindsey Walls, Student Advisor- Courtney Dickie, and member Cami Hellwarth.

The team placed second at sub-districts, which then qualified them for the district competition, held at Hardin Northern High School on December 1st. At districts, the team placed fifth. The team will not move on to the state competition; however they did a good job this year. The chapter would like to wish congratulations to the team for making it to the district level.

Parkway DARE

The Parkway teachers assisting Deputy Sue Miller with the program were, Mrs. Shellabarger, Mrs. Frahm, Mrs. Kirby and Mrs. Kraner. Parkway’s Middle School Principal is Mr. Baumgartner. The Mercer County D.A.R.E. program is a division of the Mercer County Sheriff Office under the leadership of Sheriff Jeff Grey. D.A.R.E. Officers are Deputy Mark Germann and Deputy Sue Miller.

Patrol reminds motorists that safety belts save lives

“It’s simple - safety belts save lives and reduce injury in crashes,” said Colonel John Born, Patrol superintendent. “It is the easiest thing you can do to protect yourself, your family and your friends.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, safety belts save over 13,000 lives every year and remain the single most effective thing you can do to protect yourself in a crash.

Choosing to wear a safety belt is a personal choice and Ohio’s safety belt compliance rate indicates that motorists are doing so more now than ever.

According to Ohio’s 2010 Observational Seatbelt Survey, 83.8 percent of motorists were found to be in compliance with Ohio’s safety belt law. This is a significant increase from the 72.9 percent observed in 2002. While these rates have steadily increased, far too many Ohioans still do not buckle-up. In 2010, 467 of the people killed on Ohio’s roadways were not wearing an available safety belt.

Ohio’s safety belt law remains a secondary violation, however troopers continue zero tolerance enforcement when motorists are stopped for other violations and are found not to be wearing their belt.

Troopers ask that you wear your safety belt every time and insist that those who travel with you buckle-up as well.

New Chamber Member

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.

Drug Arrests In Celina

Further investigation led to information concerning the location of additional drugs at a second Celina home. A second controlled buy was completed which led to the arrest of three additional suspects at a home located at 429 S. Walnut Street. A suspect was observed leaving that location to complete the drug transaction. After that transaction had been completed and the suspect returned to the home, officers made entry and located three subjects. Two of those persons were the subjects of active indictments for drug trafficking. Both were taken into custody. A third person at the residence was charged with Obstruction of Official Business for harboring the two wanted suspects.

Taken into custody on the active Mercer County Grand Jury Indictments were Seth T. Hall, (24) and Linzie Starr, (19). Both have “at large” addresses, but were staying at the S. Walnut Street address at the time of their arrest. Tina K. Hall, (45), 710 Devonshire Drive, #21, Celina, was charged with one count of Obstruction of Official Business, second degree misdemeanor.

The suspects in the misdemeanor cases are expected to appear in Celina Municipal Court on Thursday morning. The case has been turned over to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office for review and the filing of appropriate felony charges. The Grand Lake Drug Task Force will continue following up on leads obtained through today’s arrests.

Joint Township District Memorial Hospital Earns ACR Accreditation

The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures, and quality assurance programs are assessed. The findings are reported to the ACR Committee on Accreditation, which subsequently provides the practice with a comprehensive report they can use for continuous practice improvement.

“Earning the ACR Accreditation demonstrates our commitment to providing the highest quality mammography services,” states Denise Pugh, Manager of Medical Imaging at Joint Township Hospital. “Every aspect of providing the mammography exam is evaluated when submitting for this accreditation. For our patients, this means they can be confident when they have their mammogram done here at Joint Township Hospital, we meet the standards of excellence set forth nationwide.”

The ACR is a national professional organization serving more than 34,000 diagnostic/interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists, nuclear medicine physicians, and medical physicists with programs focusing on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services.

Representative Buchy Files as a Candidate for the 84th Ohio House of Representatives Seat

Representative Buchy is currently filling the unexpired term of Jim Zehringer (R-Fort Recovery) who was appointed Director of Agriculture in January. Representative Buchy serves on the State Government and Elections Committee, Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee and is Vice Chairman of the Economic and Small Business Development Committee.

Representative Buchy says, “I have enjoyed being an active part of changes to how we do business in Ohio. I want to return as your State Representative to continue this progress and help get Ohio moving again.”

In the past year as Representative, he has had several key legislative accomplishments. Representative Buchy was sponsor for HB 229 a bill that streamlined operations at the Ohio Department of Agriculture and promoted growth of Ohio Agriculture. He made an amendment to the budget to allow schools to have “e-days” in lieu of calamity days. In addition, he worked actively to promote business growth through an 18 month use tax amnesty program and took a leadership role in the passage of the Heartbeat Bill; which could save a bus load of unborn children each day.

Currently, Representative Buchy is working to pass HB 276, which will define algaculture and anaerobic digesters as part of agriculture under Ohio law. This bill will have a major impact on the 84th House District. It will reduce the amount of nutrients that enter our water cycle by providing alternative uses of agricultural byproducts.

Representative Buchy will be on the Republican primary ballot in March. If successful the General Election will take place in November of 2012.

Food Drive

Grube Homicide Update

(12-6-11) The investigation into the Grube homicides is continuing. 4 investigators from BCI&I are in Mercer County working with us. The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office has 3 detectives assigned and patrol deputies are running down the 43 tips we have received so far. Other investigators are running down leads through the crime labs and data analysis. In all, there are 10-12 investigators working on the case at any given time. We are dedicating the resources to follow up on each piece of information obtained.

I believe we have assembled the right team of investigators. The Mercer County Sheriff’s Office and the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, an arm of the Ohio Attorney General, have partnered to work this case. At this point, the case is progressing and information is being gathered. I am very hopeful that as we analyze the information, we will identify a reason and suspect or suspects in this case. This case will take time, it is important to get it right.

On Saturday, several interviews were conducted. After the interviews more search warrants were obtained. One to take the vehicle at the residence and one to take a computer from another location that we believe one of the victims may have used to communicate with people. It has been determined that a laptop computer, which belonged to one of the victims, was taken from the residence during the crime. At this point we are unsure of what information the laptop contained and why it would be of interest to the perpetrator(s).

On Sunday evening, around 8PM Attorney General Mike DeWine called me to ensure that we are getting all the help we need from the Attorney General’s Office/BCI. He expressed sympathy for the Grube family and asked me to keep him informed of the progress, which, of course, I will do.

I will also keep the media informed of our progress as time permits and as information can be released. Please continue to publish our tip line at 567-890-8477 and our website at www.mercercountysheriff.org.

Thank you for your help and patience.

Ohio EPA Awards $49,900 Environmental Education Grant to Auglaize and Mercer Counties

The program is phase one of the “Grand Again Watershed Campaign” and targets more than 12,000 watershed residents (approximately 4,880 households).

The campaign will promote five categories of watershed protection: green lawn and garden care; storm water management; maintenance of septic systems, sump pumps and water softeners; safe disposal of pet waste; and safe disposal of pharmaceuticals and hazardous waste. Each topic will include a targeted mailing to all watershed households, newspaper and billboard ads, signs and online resources. Community outreach meetings will be conducted with the Grand Again Campaign Team in Grand Lake St. Marys’ seven sub-watersheds.

The Ohio Environmental Education Fund is administered by Ohio EPA. Grants up to $50,000 are funded from one-half of the civil penalties collected by the Agency for air and water pollution control violations. Eligible grant recipients include environmental groups, public and private schools, colleges and universities, trade or professional organizations, businesses and state and local governments. Approximately $1 million is given each year.

The next OEEF application deadline is on Jan. 17, 2012. An electronic letter of intent to apply is due on Jan. 10. For additional information, contact the Ohio Environmental Education Fund at (614) 644-2873 or visit www.epa.ohio.gov/oee/.

Grube Homicide Update

Grube Obituaries

CLICK HERE - Robert Grube

CLICK HERE - Colleen Grube

I have asked the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Identifications Special Investigation Unit (SIU) to assist Mercer County Detectives in solving this crime. SIU agents and Mercer County detectives worked into the late evening on Friday and started at 8 AM on Saturday morning working until 9:30 PM.

More work continues today and is expected between SIU and Mercer County detectives into next week. Auglaize County Sheriff Al Solomon has sent deputies to assist in other functions so Mercer County Deputies can focus on this crime with BCI.

There will be no updates this week and no other information will be released as those assigned to this case need to completely focus on the investigation. In the event that information is gained that the public needs to be aware of, that information will be released either by news release or press conference, depending on the nature of the information.

I appreciate the cooperation we have had from the news media. There is no need to call our office for updates as the answer will be we are still working on the case and no information is being release. When we have critical information that should be shared with the public, the media will be notified, immediately AFTER we have notified the victim’s family.

Thank you for your help and understanding as we move through this difficult investigation.

Apparent Suicide In Mercer County

Mizer was distraught as he had been arrested on Friday by deputies for sexual imposition of minor. The charge is a third degree misdemeanor. Mr. Mizer was employed as a teacher at Marion Local Elementary School, but the crime was not committed on school property or during school hours.

Mr. Mizer was brought to the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility and booked in, but was later released when his wife posted bond.

Mizer was found dead in the pond at the Maria Stein Spiritual Center, 2365 St. John’s Road, Maria Stein at approximately 10:30 AM this morning. No other details are being released at this time.

Double Homicide In Mercer County

JUST IN - 12-1-11

Audio Courtesy of WCSM RADIO and Kevin Sandler

CLICK HERE - Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey's Press Conference concerning Ft Recovery Double Murder- December 1, 2011

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey confirms this morning that both victims were bound with duct tape and shot to death at the crime scene. State officials have been brought into the investigation and will assist the local office. MORE DETAILS TO FOLLOW

Fort Recovery, OH (11-30-11) – Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey confirmed that Sheriff’s Deputies are investigating what is believed to be a double homicide that occurred in rural Fort Recovery between the hours of 5:00 PM, Tuesday and 9:00 AM Wednesday. The incident occurred at 2216 Burrville Road, just east of Fort Recovery. Killed were Robert Grube and his daughter Colleen Grube.

The Sheriff’s Office has established a tip line for anyone who may have seen anything unusual in the area or who may have information. The number is 567-890-TIPS (8477).

A press conference will be held at the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, 4835 SR 29, Celina, on Thursday morning at 9:00 AM. No other details will be released until that time.

View State Report Cards For Mercer County Schools

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CLICK HERE - St. Henry

CLICK HERE - Celina Schools - Office of the Superintendent

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