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The Mercer County Outlook Stock Market Update

Dow Jones Chart

Obituaries

W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Homes-Celina & Mendon

Cisco Funeral Home, Celina

Lehman-Hogenkamp-Dzendzel, Celina - Hogenkamp, St. Henry and Hogenkamp, Coldwater

Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home, Rockford

MILLER FUNERAL HOMES - St.Marys and New Knoxville

BROCKMAN-BOECKMAN FUNERAL HOME - Ft. Recovery

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LOCAL NEWS

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CLICK HERE - EDITORIAL - WIND POWER - To Good To Be True

THE OUTLOOK - Our 8th Year in 2012

View - Coldwater School Board Agenda - 5-22-12

Home Thefts In Celina Being Investigated

Wear Your Seatbelt...Win a Car

Next week the Celina Police Department will partner with KERNS AUTO GROUP, the Ohio State Patrol and the Ohio Traffic Safety Office to present a car to a graduating Celina Senior High student that has not been issued a citation for failing to use a safety belt. The Wear Your Seatbelt...Win a Car promotion was began six years ago as part of Ohio Department of Public Safety’s What’s Holding You Back summer safety belt campaign by the Celina Police Department as a way to give back to the Celina Senior High students that had helped them promote safety belt usage amongst local teenagers. Those promotions were begun after ten area students lost their lives in traffic crashes in the Mercer and Auglaize County area. Safety belts were not in use in those crashes. The Celina Police Department and Ohio State Patrol Post 6 began promoting safety belt usage amongst teenagers through student athletes, presentations and public information campaigns. Their efforts led to the Celina Police Department winning two police cruisers under a program that rewards law enforcement agencies for promoting safety belt usage. In return the Wear Your Seatbelt…Win a Car promotion developed. It serves both to promote safety belt usage and smart decisions by teenage drivers and to reward the students for their assistance in the promoting safety belt usage amongst their peers.

In the photograph members of the Celina Senior High School 2012 graduating class, that were chosen in a qualification drawing held at this year’s senior assembly. On Thursday, 05-24-12 at 2:30, each of these students will have an opportunity to draw a key and try to start the Chevrolet Cavalier that was donated to the program by KERNS AUTO GROUP. The student that draws the correct key, wins the car.

The Celina Police Department wishes to once again thank everyone from KERNS AUTO GROUP that has made this program possible for the last six years. Without their generous donation the Wear Your Seatbelt…Win a Car promotion could not be possible.

Parkway FFA Student Makes It to the Top

On May 3rd and 4th the Parkway FFA chapter went to the State FFA convention. At the convention, one member from the Parkway FFA chapter, made it to the finals in the proficiency award area of Specialty Crop Production.

Kylie Snyder, a junior, placed 4th in the state of Ohio in her SAE. SAE stands for Supervised Agriculture Event. The finals began early Thursday morning with an intense interview, by a panel consisting of three judges. She had to keep record of all her mum sales and how much money she made through her business. She also had to make a display to set up at convention, so that members and guest could see all the hard work she has put into her SAE.

Kylie earned this award by raising and selling mums. Throughout the summer she plants, waters, pulls weeds, and fertilizes mums, that are to be sold during the fall. In total, she has raise and sold around 850 mums. She is going to continue her work this summer with a goal of selling 500 mums. They come in a variety of colors as well as a variety of pot sizes.

The prices depend on the size of pot. $5 for an 8”, $10 for a 12”, $15 for hanging baskets, and decorative pots that ranges from $20-$25, depending on the size. The colors vary from red, orange, and yellow to pinks, purples, and muti-colored mums.

The Parkway FFA Chapter would like to congratulate Kylie on her hard work and success with her mums and wishes her luck for next year.

CELINA CITY COUNCIL Committee Meeting

Committee of a Whole

Meeting Topic: Council Rules

Caden Hellwarth Receives 2012 DEKALB Agricultural Accomplishment Award

Hellwarth, the son of Garrett and Judy Hellwarth, received the award for excellence in academics, leadership, and agricultural work experience. Hellwarth’s significant experiences and accomplishments have included being the Parkway FFA chapter president, being a finalist in State FFA soil judging, grain merchandising, engineering, and earning his State FFA Degree. Alan Post is Hellwarth’s agricultural education instructor at Parkway High School.

This year the DEKALB Agricultural Accomplishment Award celebrates its 64th anniversary. Over these 64 years more than 166,000 high school seniors from across the country have received the Award, which has become a symbol for excellence and the school’s highest agricultural honor. In 2010, over 2,000 students from 49 of the 50 states were recognized with the Award.

As the winner of the 2011 Award, Hellwarth’s name will be recorded on a permanent plaque displayed at Parkway High School.

Monsanto, a long-time supporter of agricultural education, FFA, 4-H, and other farm youth organizations and initiatives, sponsors the DEKLAB Agricultural Accomplishment Award. Monsanto is a leading global provider of technology-based solutions and agricultural products that improve farm productivity and food quality.

Mercer Health Honors Volunteers

Over 250 volunteers were honored at the Mercer Health Volunteer Recognition Dinner held at Romer’s Entertainment Facility in St. Henry. Among those receiving awards were (from left, front row) Jane Woods, Ruth Nerderman, Marie Eyink, Vi Luthman, Carole Carr, Phyllis Westegerdes, Jeanette Wellman, Glenna Deitsch, and Jan Steinbrunner. In the back row (from left) are Chief Executive Officer Paula Detterman, Werner Prenger, Janet Hummel, Kristine Heiby, Andrea Van Horn, Dianna Schulze, Mary Meier, Jane Wilker, Alfreda Lochtefeld, Connie Wynk, Connie Guggenbiller, Director of Volunteers Jane Stammen, and Marge Stover. Absent are Brenda Grieshop, Laura Wendel, Barb Benner, Ken Gelhaus, Katie Alig, Kathy Webster, Rita Snider, Trudy Maruna, and Rita and Lee Wissman.

Mercer Health saluted their Volunteer Association at a special ceremony held recently at the Romer’s Entertainment Facility in St. Henry, Ohio. The over 250 volunteers were applauded for donating over 18,600 hours of their time during 2011.

Jane Wilker was honored for reaching 6,000 hours of service, and Vi Luthman was recognized for achieving the 4,000 hours mark in 2011. Adult volunteers honored for surpassing the 3,000 hours mark during the past year were Marie Eyink and Laura Wendel.

Barb Benner, Mary Meier, Werner Prenger, Marge Stover, and Connie Wynk were recognized for achieving 1,000 hours of donated time to Mercer Health.

The 500 hours pins were given to Carole Carr, Glenna Deitsch, Brenda Grieshop, Connie Guggenbiller, Alfreda Lochtefeld, Jan Steinbrunner, Jeanette Wellman and Phyllis Westegerdes. Recognized for reaching 250 hours of service were Katie Alig, Ken Gelhaus, Kristine Heiby, Janet Hummel, Trudy Nerderman, Diana Schulze, Rita Snider, Andrea Van Horn, Kathy Webster, Lee Wissman, Rita Wissman, and Jane Woods..

Teen volunteers who donated 50 or more hours in 2011 included Travis Goettemoeller, Shantel Leon, and Abby Weitzel.

In addition to the awards presentation, a brief business meeting was held. During that meeting, the Volunteer Association Director Jane Stammen reviewed the accomplishments for the past year. She stated that over 250 volunteers donated over 18,600 hours in 2011. She said, “The Hospitality Gift Shop continues to grow at its new location. Our other projects continue to grow.”

The Association President Henry Lefeld, reported that the Volunteer group has pledged over $10,000 for the upcoming year. Part of this contribution will be used for the third floor Family Waiting Area renovation project, and another portion will be used to purchase a granite bench that will be a part of a landscaping project at the West Entrance of the hospital. A blanket External Fluid Monitor for the Surgery Department will also be purchased.

The money raised by the teen volunteers in 2011 was used to purchase a Distraction Cart. This cart will be used for children in the Emergency Department or in any of the medical-surgical units to help them become more comfortable in a mysterious surrounding.

Entertainment for the evening was provided by Steve Rosenbeck.

Reps. Adams and Buchy Announce Passage of Memorial Highways Legislation

Included in House Bill 325 is a portion of highway that runs through both the 79th Ohio House District and the 77th Ohio House District.

The bill designates the section of State Route 47, beginning at the intersection of State Route 49 and continuing easterly to the intersection of United States Route 127, in Darke County only, as the “Pfc. Douglas E. Dickey Memorial Highway.” Marine Pfc. Douglas E. Dickey died in Vietnam on March 26, 1967, when he fell on an enemy hand grenade to protect fellow marines, an action for which he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.

“All of us who are enjoying the freedom our brave military members have fought to protect are supportive of offering them the recognition they deserve, said Rep. Adams. “This is especially true in regards to a hero who has protected those freedoms at the cost of his own life.” “Darke County is home of three Congressional Medal of Honor winners, two from the Civil War and Pfc. Douglas Dickey,” said Rep. Buchy. “I am honored to have had the opportunity to amend H.B. 325 to recognize the heroic efforts of this fine individual.”

House Bill 325 will now be sent to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.

Certified Little Growers

On April 30th, Dues Nursery sent employees out to local schools in Mercer and Auglaize Counties to assist fifteen hundred students in grades preschool through 3rd to plant vegetable seeds as a Mother's Day gift. The students learned about what a plant nursery does as well as learning hands on how to plant and care for the seeds. The program was well received at the schools by students and teachers alike. Schools visited during the 2012 program year included St. Marys, Celina East and West, Coldwater, St. Henry, Parkway and Creative Discovery Preschool.

Dues Nursery is committed to giving back to the communities in which we have done business for 24 years. The program will run again next year, but expand further into more schools. If your school is interested in participating, please contact Mike Dues at 419-586-1290, or check out the nursery's website, www.duesnursery.com, for information regarding the program as well as pictures taken at schools that participated

2012 MAC All League Softball and Baseball Teams

CLICK HERE MAC Softball All League Members

CLICK HERE MAC Baseball All League Members

New Chamber Member

Glenco Farms has joined the Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce. Glenco is located at 7140 Mercer Rd. in Mendon. Glenco Farms is a LG Seeds Representative. hone: 419 -733-2236

Pictured from left to right: Austin Harner, Hadley Germann, Glen Harner, (founder), Matt Sites, Mike Harner (owner) & Hayley Germann, Ashley Germann (Office Manager & Chamber Trustee) and Betty DuBry of Hall Realty & Chamber Trustee

CLICK HERE - Village of Rockford Council Minutes - 5-15-12

Credit Card Suspect Identified

UPDATED - The suspect in the credit card theft mentioned in the last news release has already been identified as the suspect in another incident in LaGrange, Kentucky. Kentucky authorities contacted the Celina Police Department after seeing a news report on charges being filed on Mark S. Wallencheck.

The Celina Police Department has filed charges on a suspect in connection with the theft of credit cards, and the attempted use of those cards at the Celina Wal-Mart. The incident took place on Monday, 04-30-12. At the time of the attempted use of the credit cards security cameras at Wal-Mart captured images of the suspect at the register and as the suspect left the store.

The investigation led officers across Ohio as they discovered similar reports in Huber Heights, Marysville, Marion, Salem and Delaware County. There are also links to investigations in Tennessee and Virginia. All of these instances involve the theft of credit cards or use of stolen credit cards.

Mark S. Wallencheck, (41), of Elyria Ohio has been charged with two counts of felony theft, (F-5) in connection with the local case. There are active warrants for the suspect held by other agencies in Ohio and Virginia. Wallencheck is still at large. The Celina Police Department is continuing its investigation to develop additional information for their case and to assist other jurisdictions in developing formal charges in their cases.

Anyone with information concerning Wallencheck’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Celina Police Department at 419-586-2345 or their local law enforcement agency.

Coldwater Schools D.A.R.E. Graduation

Coldwater schools held the fifth grade D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) graduation, Friday, May 4, at the school’s auditorium. Special guests were, Mercer County Deputy, Chad Fortkamp and K-9 Zak, Coldwater Police Officer Kip Wright, and Coldwater Superintendant, Rich Seas. The Honor students receiving special recognition and medals were: Maddi Klosterman,Erin Schritz, Feranada Macias, Camille Knapke, Conner Muhlenkamp, Logan May,Taylor Post, Derek Siefring, A.J. Kunk, Thomas Klosterman, Cole Frilling, Anthony Jones, Maddie Steinke, Faith Diller and KeAndre Godsey.The students reading their essays were: Fernanda Macias, Stephen Verhoff, Nicole Wagner, KeAndrea Godsey, Katelyn Vagedes, Paul Buschur, Kyle May, Nile Najmi, Braden Obringer, Jeremy Gross and Gina Langenkamp. All of the fifth graders were presented with a certificate and a D.A.R.E. tee shirt, which they earned by completing their workbook, writing an essay and classroom activities. The key note speaker was Miss Ohio, Ellen Bryan. She recalled her time as a D.A.R.E. student and how being drug free helped her attain her goals. She also performed two songs, which the audience enjoyed. Assisting the D.A.R.E. Officer, Deputy Sue Miller with the program were, fifth grade teachers, Mrs. Gilliland, Mrs. Pholman, Mr. Seitz, Mrs. Schwieterman and Mr. Harlamert. The Mercer County D.A.R.E. program is a division of the Sheriff Office under the leadership of Sheriff Jeff Grey. Deputy Sue Miller and Deputy Mark Germann are the D.A.R.E. Officers for Mercer County.

Celina Mercer County Chamber Golf Outing "The Ugly Pants Open"

Pictured from left to right: Steve Schmidt, Peoples Bank & Chamber Trustee & Golf Committee Bob Stover, Peoples Bank & Chamber Golf Committee Bill Stammen, Stammen Insurance Roger Langenkamp, Rino's Auto Sales Jeff Wolters, Peoples Bank & Chamber Golf Committee Sue Heiser, WCSM Radio & Chamber Trustee & Golf Committee

The third "Ugly Pants Open" is scheduled for Friday, June 8th at the Fox's Den in Celina. Rain date is June 15th. This outing provides a relaxing afternoon of golf and is an excellent opportunity to network with other business people. Golf, cart and dinner are $250 for a team of four or $62.50 per person. If you don't have a foursome, not a problem we can team you up with other golfers. To register, call the Chamber at 419 586-2219.

Prizes will be awarded for the "ugliest pants" as well as closet to the pin, longest putt, longest drive, and hole in one. Rino's Auto Sales and Stammen Insurance are sponsoring a chance to win a 2011 Hyundai Sonata GLS with its all new design. A hole in one on a specific hole can win this car. Several other holes will have prize opportunities. There will also be a raffle with some great prizes.

The Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization that relies on its memberships and fundraising activities. Please contact the Chamber for more details or if you have any questions. Visit www.celinamercer.com or call 419 586-2219.

Four Parkway FFA Members Receive State Degrees

Kylie Snyder, Lindsey Walls, Tommy McDonough, and Tyler Matthews

At the State FFA convention, the Parkway FFA Chapter had four members receive their state FFA degree.

To receive their state degree, students must complete minimum requirements. Students must have already earned their Chapter degree, have completed at least one year in an agricultural education class, be a junior, senior, or high school graduate, have a grade point average of 2.0 or higher, and have an attendance record of 93% or better. Students also must have one of the following: gross earnings of more than $3000, or have worked 1000 hours or more.

Lindsey Walls, a junior, daughter of Kerry and Heidi Walls. She earned her degree by working on Walls Farms.

Tyler Matthews, a junior, is the son of Todd and Brenda Matthews. Tyler earned his degree by raising and selling steers and hogs at the Van Wert County fair.

Tommy McDonough, a junior, is the son of Larry and Tammy McDonough. He earned his state degree by working on McDonough Farms.

Kylie Snyder, a junior, is the daughter of Steve and Diane Snyder. She earned her state degree by raising and selling mums.

The Parkway FFA Chapter would like to congratulate the four recipients on their hard work and effort.

Miller Makes It Official In Mentor

Miller addresses Mentor School Board and audience

(5-14-12) - Current Celina Schools Superintendent Matt Matt is officially the new Mentor Schools Superintendent after he signed his contract tonight at a Mentor school board meeting. There was a welcome reception after the meeting where the Miller family met with school administrators, teachers and staff.

Celina will now begin to search for Miller's replacement.

Matt Miller and his family, wife Kristy, daughter Jessica and son Mason

Buddies Program Wraps Up

Most Wednesday afternoons during the school year, a group of 2nd-4th grade students from Celina West Elementary met with their High School Bigs from area high schools. This group of Bigs and Littles is part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Buddies program. The Buddies program just concluded its activities for this school year.

During their time together the groups would work on homework, have a snack, play games, and do other activities. This year they focused on multicultural appreciation, safety, and being healthy. They also had several guest speakers come in throughout the year.

The leader of this group was Nancy Eberle. She said that she will always remember the excitement of the Littles and the sparkle in their eyes when the Bigs would walk in. Some of the Bigs had favorite memories, too. One said this gave her the chance to be a part of a child’s life that needed her. Others said that they enjoyed watching the Littles grow and having fun with the Littles. The Littles were also asked about their experience. One mentioned that having her Big was the greatest thing that has ever happened to her. Others mentioned that they liked how helpful their Bigs were and having fun with their Bigs.

Big Brothers Big Sisters would like to thank the following for helping to make the Buddies program possible: CAPT, Cargill, Celina & Mercer County Combined Services, Cooper Family Foundation, DP&L Foundation, Dannon Yogurt, Greve Auto Sales, Mercer County Civic Foundation, St. Marys Intermediate School-Social Committee, United Way of Auglaize County, United Way of Van Wert County, Vectren Foundation, and Walmart Foundation. They would also like to thank all the Big Buddies and West Elementary for their help.

If you would like more information about the Buddies program or any Big Brothers Big Sisters program, please contact the agency at 419-394-2990, 1-866-670-BBBS, or office@bbbsma.com. You may also visit the agency’s website at www.bbbsma.com.

Parkway FFA and FCCLA Host Blood Drive

The FFA and FCCLA would like to thank the American Red Cross, those students and staff members who donated blood, and everyone who helped make it a successful day.

Parkway FFA Holds Annual Daddy-Daughter Dance

The Parkway FFA Chapter would like to thank everyone one who attended the dance. Next, a special thanks goes to Jeremy Wenning for being the DJ for the night. Also we would like to thank Brian and Joyce Dickie, for taking pictures of the girls and their fathers. It was a good time and we hope see the girls and their fathers back again next year!

MED Foundation Awards Scholarships

The MED Foundation recipients for 2012 were awarded scholarships at a signing ceremony held recently at Mercer County Community Hospital. From left (front row) is Lauren Siefring (St. Henry), Kristen Siefring (St. Henry), Morgan Homan (Coldwater), Tracy Donovan (Celina), Sarah Moeder (St. Henry), and Rachel Schmitz (Coldwater). In the back row (from left) are Sean Mertz (Celina), Kristin Bertke (Marion), Jamie Wynk (Marion Local), Brooke Boznango (Parkway), Natalie Lennartz (Ft. Recovery), Christen Wendel, (Ft. Recovery), and Travis Goettemoeller (Coldwater).

The Medical, Educational, and Development (MED) Foundation of Mercer Health recently awarded $13,750 in scholarships to area students planning study in a health service field after graduation from high school.

Upcoming graduates from schools in Mercer County were on hand at a signing ceremony held recently at Mercer County Community Hospital. Scholarships were awarded to at least one person from each of the schools in the county. Six of the 13 students each received a $1500 scholarship while five each received $750 and two were awarded $500 in scholarship money.

MED Foundation Director John Hoying says, “This is the twenty first year for our program. All of the money we have awarded since the beginning has gone to help students graduating from schools in Mercer County. The total amount awarded since our program began is over $170,000. Thanks to the success of our annual Esmonde/Homan Memorial Golf Outing, we were able to award our largest amount ever this year.”

Receiving $1500 scholarships (and the schools from which they will graduate) for 2012 are: Morgan Homan (Coldwater), Lauren Siefring (St. Henry), Jamie Wynk (Marion), Natalie Lennartz (Ft. Recovery), Sean Mertz (Celina) and Brooke Boznango (Parkway).

Those awarded $750 scholarships included Kristin Siefring (St. Henry), Christen Wendel (Ft. Recovery), Kristen Bertke (Marion), Travis Goettemoeller (Coldwater), and Tracy Donovan (Celina). Sarah Moeder (St. Henry) and Rachel Schmitz (Coldwater) each received a $500 scholarship.

Hoying says, “We have a nice mix of students entering a variety of healthcare fields that could be beneficial to our community if they chose to come back here after they have completed their studies. We have three students entering pharmacy, one entering biomedical engineering, one entering physical therapy, one in speech pathology, two in pre-med, four pursuing a degree in nursing and one occupational therapy assistant.”

Funds needed to finance these scholarships are raised though the Esmonde-Homan Memorial Golf Open which will be held on June 13 at the Mercer County Elks Golf Course. Persons wanting to play in the Golf Outing should contact John Hoying at 419-678-5679. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

The MED Foundation hopes to continue to award these scholarships on an annual basis if there are funds available. Persons wishing to make a contribution can send their donation to: MED Foundation; c/o Mercer Health; 800 W. Main Street; Coldwater, Ohio 45828.

Better Hearing & Speech Proclamation

May 10, 2012 - Pictured from left: Commissioner Nuding, Myles, Steve & Amy Quinter of Coldwater, Commissioner Laffin. Front left: Molly Moorman, SLP, Commissioner Bruns, Angie King of Celina, Erica King, Abby & Allison Quinter. Both the Kings and Quinters have children who are deaf and utilize cochlear implants to hear. They desire salute audiologists and speech -language pathologists who work to bring better hearing and speech to individuals who are affected by communication disorders and bring increase awareness of the benefits of cochlear implants.

The new movie “Touchback” was released in select markets around the country last weekend, including Columbus and Cleveland in Ohio. It becomes the first movie ever to show a scene of a packed Ohio Stadium.

“Touchback” takes place in Coldwater, Ohio (though a fictionalized version of Coldwater)

Tri Star Career Compact House Auction

Friday, May 18th-    5:00-6:30 PM
Sunday, May 20th-  12:30-2:00 PM
Thursday, May 24th- 5:00-6:30 PM
 

For more information call 419-586-7060 or visit www.tristarcareercompact.com

Miller Addresses Celina Kiwanis

In 2008 Celina City Schools began evaluating various proposals for new buildings and renovations to take advantage of funds from the Ohio School Facilities Commission (OSFC). During the country's economic crisis, this discussion was put on hold. As many community members are aware, these plans have been revived. In a presentation to the Celina Kiwanis, Celina Superintendent Matt Miller discussed the status of the building plans. Miller believes replacing the elementary buildings is a priority. They are the oldest in the district. The district must propose a large enough building and renovation plan to qualify for OSFC funds. Current proposals include a new K—4 building and renovation of the middle school, the high school, or both. The K—4 building would be adjacent to, if not connected to, the current 5—6 building. The district would have two campuses in town, K—6 on the west side of town and 7—12 on the east. Guided by community input and the recommendations of the building committee, the Celina City School

Board will make a decision on adopting a proposal at its May meeting. Not long after this meeting, Miller announced his plans to take a new position in Mentor.

Marion Local FFA Dairy Judging Team Finishes 4th in the State

Pictured are the members of the Marion Local Dairy Judging Team from left to right, Jack Homan, Keith Bohman, Ashley Wilker, and Ross Reichert.

Four members of the Marion Local FFA Dairy Judging Team recently competed in the state finals. The team earned the right to advance to the finals after placing in the top 10 out of more than 70 teams in the state at the end of March. The members have spent the last month continuing to practice the skill of evaluating cattle. However, added to the state finals is the oral reasons component. This component requires each member of the team to individually write and memorize reasons on their placings of each class and deliver those reasons orally to a judge. The state contest consisted of judging three classes of live animals and delivering three sets of reasons. Students receive 20 minutes to write and memorize each set. The team was coached by Leslie Maurice and Jill Lokai.

The team finished fourth in the contest, earning the chapter its first banner from a state Career Development Event. The team placed first in the oral reasons portion of the contest and was recognized for this achievement as well. Ross Reichert lead the team, placing 8th as an individual out of more than 270 students across the state. Jack Homan placed second in the oral reasons contest.

Marion Local FFA Members Make History

Six Marion Local members competed as finalists in the Proficiency Award program. This program recognizes students from across the state that have outstanding Supervised Agricultural Experience programs. Students complete a 20 page application that focuses on the hours they have worked, skills they have attained, and activities complete on a daily basis. This award program is very competitive. Students’ applications are evaluated on the district level which includes 40-50 schools and then on the state level. At this level, the top four students in each area are named. These four finalists complete an interview with a panel of experts and then a state winner is name. The process is time consuming but very rewarding. It is an honor to be a finalist in this program, and Marion was extremely proud to have six. The results of this process were announced on stage at State Convention. Ashley Wilker made history, being named Marion Local’s first State Winner, her application was in the area of Dairy Production Placement. She has worked over 2,900 hours on Ted Dirksen’s Dairy Farm. Kyle Kramer was named the third runner up in this same area for his work at Homan Dairy, under the direction of Dean and Jeff Homan. Sam Poeppelman was the first runner up in the area of Ag Mechanics Repair and Fabrication; he is employed at G&L Sales and Service. Tyler Fleck was named the 2nd runner up in the area of Diversified Ag Production for his work on Fleck Farms Inc. The last two Marion Local finalists were in the area of Poultry Production. Conner Unrast, who works at Unrast Farms, was named the second runner up and Abby Fleck, who works at Robert Fleck and Sons, was named the third runner-up.

Carmen Meyer was named the winner in the state writing contest. This involves submitting an essay that is at least one thousand words. The topic, which is selected by the state, was on changing the attitudes and behavior of those in her school and community in terms of nutrition. S

Three Marion Local FFA members were selected to play in the State FFA Band. Molly Hardesty, Tim Droesch, and Lacie Mueller represented the chapter by performing in this group.

The convention ended with five Marion Local FFA members earning their State FFA Degree. This degree is the highest award the state association can bestow upon its members. In order to earn this recognition, members must have worked over 1,000 hours at their Supervised Agricultural Experience Program, participated in 2 Career Development Events and five activities above the chapter level, completed more than 40 hours of community service, and maintain a 3.0GPA or 92% attendance rate. The degree is given to the top 2% of Ohio’s 24,000 FFA members. Marion’s newest State Degree recipients are Kyle Kramer, Keith Bohman, Molly Hardesty, Nicole Bertke, and Kevin Miller.

Carmen Meyer is pictured with her plaque after being named the winner of the State FFA Writing Contest.

Marion Local is proud to have six students named as finalists in the Proficiency Award Program. These six students pose for a picture after completing their interviews. Back Row (L-R) Abby Fleck, Sam Poeppelman, and Conner Unrast, Front Row (L-R) Tyler Fleck, Ashley Wilker, and Kyle Kramer

Five Marion Local FFA Members earned their state FFA Degrees- L-R- Kevin Miller, Kyle Kramer, Keith Bohman, Nicole Bertke, and Molly Hardesty

Three members, Lacie Mueller, Molly Hardesty, and Tim Droesch, played in the state FFA Band.

All the members attending the state convention get together for a quick picture.

Bridge Closing

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

Patrol focuses on motorcycle safety and enforcement

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

From 2009 – 2011 motorcycle-involved crashes resulted in a total of 503 fatalities and over 11,400 injuries in the state of Ohio. In 2011 alone there were 167 motorcycle-related fatalities. Of the 167 fatalities, the motorcyclist was at fault 70 percent of the time.

Taking a training class and riding with proper endorsements as a motorcycle rider can help protect yourself and others from injury or even death. Out of the 7,920 citations the Patrol handed out to motorcyclists in 2009 – 2011, 20 percent were for operating a motorcycle without a proper license or endorsement. As a rider, simple things like ensuring you have a valid motorcycle endorsement, receiving quality motorcycle training and wearing proper safety equipment can be key elements in staying safe.

Riding sober is also very important. Last year, 49 percent of the fatal motorcycle crashes involved an impaired motorcyclist, an increase of 10 percent from 2010. Of course, motorcycle safety is not solely the responsibility of motorcyclists. Motor vehicle drivers share in this important effort by being aware of motorcyclists.

There are some important steps to become more aware of motorcyclists:

·A motorcycle is a motor vehicle with all of 
the privileges of any vehicle on the roadway.
·Give motorcyclists a full lane of travel.
·Look for motorcyclists on the highway, 
at intersections, and any time you are 
changing lanes.
·Allow plenty of space in front of the 
vehicle you are driving and do not 
follow a motorcycle too closely.

Burglary Suspect Arrested By Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office

At approximately 8:53 P M on Saturday deputies responded to Sante Fe Line Rd. on a report of a house burglary in progress. The suspect had fled from the home after being stopped by the homeowner.

Deputies responded to the residence and others into the area. The suspect vehicle was observed by one of the responding deputies and stopped on I-75 Northbound. The suspect was identified as Darrell G. Purdy, age 23, from Lima. Purdy was the sole occupant.

The home owner told Deputies that he was not home at the time of the burglary but an alert neighbor noticed a vehicle in his driveway and called him. The homeowner entered his residence to find Purdy inside the residence. The homeowner attempted to keep Purdy there until deputies arrived but Purdy left the residence and was later arrested by deputies.

Sheriff Solomon commented that the alert neighbor was key in this case and the capture of the suspect... “Neighbors’ looking out for each other is important, they saw something and called”

There were no injuries reported in the incident and the matter remains under investigation.

Two Mercer County Men Face Felony Charges

Two area men face felony charges after Celina Police officers found them in possession of a handgun that has the serial numbers filed off. The two men were suspect in vehicle break-ins in the area of Wilkins Street. On Monday, 05-07-12, at 3:45 AM, officers were responding to a call of two suspects going through a vehicle parked at 606 Wilkins St. In route they were flagged down by a subject near Logan & Elm Sts. That subject, Joseph Vian, was the son of one of the victims. Clifford Chandler Jr. (24), of Celina was driving past the Vian home at 606 Wilkins Street, and observed the suspects going through the car. He stopped and told the victim, Christina L. Vian, (42), what he had seen. She woke up her son and he and Chandler chased down the suspects and stopped them at the Landmark Office on Logan St.

The responding officers made contact with the two suspects. Initially both denied any wrong-doing. During a pat-down of the suspects, one was found to be carrying a loaded .25 caliber handgun inside his pants. During follow-up questioning both admitted that they had been going through parked vehicles, and that just prior to the police arriving, the handgun had been passed off from one suspect to the other.

Kyle R. Poplaski, (20) of Celina was the suspect found with the handgun when officers arrived. He is facing charge of Carrying a Concealed Weapon, a fourth degree felony. The other suspect, George W. Darland, (19), of rural Coldwater, who admitted to officers the handgun was his and that he had been carrying up to the time that the victims stopped them at Landmark, is facing a similar charge.

Both suspects appeared in Celina Municipal Court Monday afternoon and were ordered held on a bond of $50,000 each, which is subject to 10%. The Celina Police Department wishes to compliment Mr. Chandler for taking the initiative to contact the victim and assist in tracking down the suspects. Its actions such as his that assist the Celina Police Department and other area agencies in keeping our communities safe. Investigation into the incident is continuing and additional charges may be pursued. Anyone who believes their vehicle may have been gone through overnight Sunday night is asked to contact the Celina Police Department at 419-586-2345.

Mercer County Head Start Enrolling Students

Ohio State Troopers seize nearly 18 pounds of Hydroponic Marijuana

Troopers stopped a 2004 Mercury Marauder for speed and marked lanes violations on Interstate 75, near milepost 93, at 12:25 a.m. on May 6. Troopers observed criminal indicators and an odor of raw marijuana when detected. A probable cause search revealed 17.6 pounds of marijuana in vacuum sealed packages in the trunk.

The driver, Tariq Jamal Haliburton, 25, of Everett, Wash., and passenger, Russell Gregory Lyttle, 31, of Detroit, Mich., were incarcerated in the Auglaize County Jail and charged with possession of marijuana, a third-degree felony, and possession of criminal tools, a fifth-degree felony.

If convicted, each could face up to six years in prison and up to a $12,500 fine.

Road Crews

Former Celina Resident Faces Felony Charges

A former Celina resident that now lives in Indiana is facing three felony charges in connection with the theft of tools from three different automotive shops in Celina. Between 04-25-12 and 04-28-12 the Celina Police Department received three separate reports of thefts from auto repair shops; Southside Body Shop, Morgan’s Body Shop, and AJ’s Automotive. Several items, mostly tools, were taken from Southside and Morgan’s. The suspect was trying to carry a large tool box from AJ’s Automotive in the early morning hours of Saturday, 04-28-12, when he was interrupted by an employee. The suspect then left the tool box and tools behind and fled empty-handed.

Based upon information from that witness and suspicious vehicles in the area of the thefts Celina officers developed a suspect. They were notified on Wednesday morning that Indiana authorities had arrested the suspect, Charles D. R. (Ryan) Hawkey, (24) of Pennville, Indiana for use of stolen registration plates. Celina officers interviewed Hawkeye twice on Wednesday, and obtained confessions to the three incidents described. Indiana officers did recover tools that were identified as being stolen from Morgan’s Body Shop at the time of Hawkeye’s arrest. Locally, Hawkeye has been charged with three counts of Breaking & Entering, each a fifth degree felony. He is currently being held in the Jay County Jail and will be extradited to Ohio at a later date.

2011-12 Western Buckeye League Academic All League Members

CLICK HERE Academic All League Members

Midwest Electric Community Connection Fund

Since the program began in 1998, the Midwest Electric Community Connection Fund has provided $700,445 to 517 area projects.

The recent Fund recipients include the following:

• St. Marys Township Fire Department, 
$1,500 to buy new pagers.

• YWCA of Van Wert County, 
$1,500 to help with two projects - the summer 
food program and the transitional living 
program for area homeless.

• Coldwater Fire Department, 
$1,230 to purchase replacement air bottles.

• State of the Heart Hospice, 
$1,125 to help support Camp BEARable 
for children grieving the loss of a 
loved one.

• Lima/Allen College Access Program, 
$1,000 to help fund A.C.T. preparation 
classes for area high school students.

• WTLW-TV, 
$1,000 toward the digital technology 
capital campaign.

• Mercer County Educational Service 
Center Pre-school, $925 to buy mats 
and educational toys.

• Northwest Ohio Literacy Council, 
Lima, $800 to help re-light the 
office with a more energy-efficient 
system.

• Mercy Unlimited, Wapakoneta, 
$500 to buy shelving, scales and carts.

• Van Wert County D.A.R.E., 
$500 for the summer camp.

• Auglaize County Fair Gospel Tent, 
$500 to sponsor performers.

• Operation New Knoxville Cares, 
$500 for postage to send care boxes 
to overseas military personnel.

• Coldwater High School - Multiple Disabilities, 
$499 for an iPad for instruction purposes.

• Coldwater Schools - Speech Language Department, 
$499 for an iPad for instruction purposes.

• Wapakoneta Fire Department, 
$325 to buy bicycle helmets to 
give away at this year’s bicycle safety day.

• Auglaize County 4-H Shooting Sports, 
$250 for ammunition and other supplies.

A Board of Trustees, composed of cooperative members and separate from the Midwest Electric Board of Trustees, oversees the application and allocation process.

Individuals or organizations can obtain an application by contacting Midwest Electric, at 419-394-4110 or 1-800-962-3830.

Celina Superintendent Takes Mentor Job

email sent to Celina School staff today:

Good Morning Staff,

I wanted to let you know that about 3 weeks ago I was contacted and recruited by a national search firm (Hazard, Young, Attea, and Associates) out of the greater Chicago area concerning the superintendent position at Mentor Public Schools near Cleveland. The search firm was very specific in their recruitment process. I was not seeking a new position nor had I applied.

After a few discussions with the search firm, the Mentor Board of Education invited me to meet with them two Saturdays ago to discuss their opening and to also talk about what we've accomplished here at Celina.

The initial interview went well and later on that same day, they asked me to come back and interview as a finalist. This second interview took place last week.

Late Monday night they extended an offer to me over the phone and I have accepted pending a background check, verification search, and a drug screen.

This was not a decision I came to easily. I wrestled with this possibility over several days weighing the pros and cons of this potential move. I have enjoyed working for Celina Schools and raising my children in Celina. I truly love my job and what I do. This community has been a great place for my family. We could not have picked a better place to be during my son and daughter's formative years. We have all been extremely blessed by great friends, great teachers, and great staff members.

Obviously with the strong school system we have in Celina, the search firm and the Mentor Board of Education were drawn to the successes we have shared as a district and as a community over the past several years. That is a credit to all of you.

I am looking forward to my new career opportunity at Mentor Public Schools. We are sad to be leaving Celina, but as a family, we are excited to be experiencing this change and looking ahead to the next stage in our lives. Though Kristy and I consider ourselves to be from Cincinnati, our children will always think of themselves as being from Celina. That has certainly made all of the difference in our lives.

With much appreciation,
Matt

State of the Heart Hospice Receives State VFW Grant Award

The Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of Ohio, recently selected State of the Heart Hospice to receive a $5,000 VFW grant for indigent patient care in the non-profit agency’s Coldwater office. State of the Heart cares for families and patients who are confronting a life limiting illness. Annually, the VFW, Department of Ohio, conducts fundraising events with the money collected divided equally between cancer research and rural hospices. On hand for the presentation at the Coldwater VFW Post #5135 , left to right, Trustees Tom Klenke and Jai Kremer, Wayne DeKamp, Post Commander, Ryan Gathard, Fund Development Director for State of the Heart, and Charlie Koester, Post Vice Commander.

Celina Police Department Investigating Theft of Credit Cards

Officers were checking the surrounding area for any contents of the wallet that had been discarded when the victim re-contacted the Police Department to report that her bank just notified her that someone was attempting to make a $1200 purchase with her card at the Celina Wal-Mart store. Officers responded to the store immediately, but the suspect had actually left the store before the information was relayed to the victim. Video surveillance footage shows the suspect attempt to purchase a flat screen TV with two separate cards at approximately 9:52AM. When the purchase is denied on both cards he leaves the store about 10:05AM. Before getting into his white full size pick-up truck to leave, he enters the vehicle parked next to him for five to ten seconds. It is suspected he either stole something or was looking for something to steal from that vehicle when he entered it. That vehicle had already left when officers arrived and no reports of a theft from that car have been filed with the Celina Police Department. The suspect left the area traveling east on Havemann Road.

Photographs of the suspect and his vehicle, taken from the surveillance footage, are attached to this news release. Anyone with any information concerning this incident or the identity of the suspect is urged to call the Celina Police Department at 419-586-2345.

Celina Home Invasion

The Celina Police Department canine unit tracked from the house through the neighborhood but lost the suspect a few blocks away. The suspect track did lead officers through back yards and in-between homes in the area, leading officers to believe that he may have at least considered victimizing other homes that night. Residents are urged to lock their doors overnight.

A shirt that apparently belongs to the suspect was found in the home. It was collected and will be processed for any evidence that may lead to the identity of the suspect. A photograph of the shirt is included with this news release; anyone that recognizes the shirt and may know the identity of the owner is urged to contact the Celina Police Department at 419-586-2345.

Red Cross Recognition Dinner

Pictured from left to right in the front row are Kirsten Fennig, Marge Homan, Rita and Jerry Siefring. Back row from left to right is Ron Dues, Carl Pleiman and John Staugler.

On Thursday, March 22th the American Red Cross of Mercer County held their Annual Recognition Dinner and Annual Meeting at the Celina Eagles. All volunteers, donors, sponsors and partners were recognized and thanked for their outstanding dedication, commitment and hard work that they have given to the American Red Cross of Mercer County.

Board member, Mandy Wendel welcomed everyone to the event and asked Cayla Hellwarth to sing the National Anthem. Following the Anthem, board member, Dawn Hellwarth provided the Dinner Blessing prior to the meal which was prepared by Jerry & Tammy Barger.

Following the meal, the Annual Membership Meeting was held which was called to order by Board Secretary, Tammy Barger followed by Rita Siefring, fellow board member who stated the purpose of the Membership Meeting.

Dee Uhlenhake, representing the nominating committee, introduced the two new board members: Chez Bonifas and Pam Reisen. Uhlenhake, on behalf of the entire Red Cross and the board of directors also recognized and thanked board member, Ed Homan, whose term will end in June.

“We will miss Ed for his knowledge, commitment and hard work that he has dedicated to the board of directors and the American Red Cross. We are truly grateful for his service” stated Uhelnhake.

Board Member, Ed Homan, then presented the Election of Officers as: Chair – Greg Homan, Vice Chair – Jerry Siefring, Secretary – Tammy Barger. No nominations came from the floor and Mr. Homan closed the nomination. Vote was taken and motion carried to accept the slate of officers.

Executive Director of the Red Cross of Mercer County, Deb Hemmelgarn then thanked the many volunteers, donors, community partners, sponsors and supporters who were present and also to those that were not able to attend. Information was provided regarding each of the services provided by the Red Cross; Blood Services, Services to the Armed Forces, Disaster Services and Health & Safety Services. The volunteers in each of those areas were asked to stand for recognition. The Board of Directors, the Mad Run Committee, the Red Cross Kart Racing Committee, the kart volunteers and teams were thanked as well and asked to stand for recognition.

Following the Annual Meeting, Kris & Aaron Olsen spoke about their experiences with the American Red Cross. Chris’ father, John Roberts former resident of Ft. Recovery, received blood products from the Red Cross during his battle with cancer. Following John’s death, Kris & Aaron turned to the Red Cross to send an emergency message to two of their sons who are in the military to notify them of their grandfather’s passing and to request their presence at his funeral. Initially, the military did grant leave for one of their sons, but not the other. A devastated Kris notified the Red Cross of the military’s response and after some additional casework and communications between the military and the Red Cross, the second son was also granted leave. The Olsen’s praised the Red Cross for their life-saving services and the assistance with getting both boys home to their family for their beloved grandfather’s funeral. A tearful Kathy thanked the Red Cross of Mercer County for their assistance, compassion and support.

The dinner also gave the Mercer County Chapter of the American Red Cross the opportunity to present the following awards with the assistance of long- time supporter of the American Red Cross, Mercer County Commissioner, Bob Nuding. Each award recipient was also presented with an Exemplary Attainment Certificate by the State of Ohio Senate and signed by Senator Keith Faber.

Coldwater Holy Trinity CCD Students Donate To Red Cross

In early March tornadoes left widespread devastating damage over 5 states killing at least 38 people. Several towns in southern Indiana sustained major damage including one town which was described as being “completely gone”.

Following the news of the heartbreaking damage and loss of life caused by the tornadoes, Coldwater Holy Trinity CCD students wanted to help our neighbors who were suffering due to these devastating tornadoes.

During the month of March, students collected Pennies for Mission to donate to the Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund for the Indiana victims. Pictured are some of the first graders from Holy Trinity CCD program who participated in the program which collected $156.62 for the victims of the tornado.

Mercer County Sheriff Grey Speaks to Celina Kiwanis

The Celina Kiwanis hosted Sheriff Jeff Grey in early April. Grey updated the club on the recent activities of the sheriff's office and answered questions from the members. The department continues to investigate recent area homicides. Based on current information, officers have increased patrolling certain areas of the county as well as stopping suspicious cars. Since these crimes involved home invasions, Grey advised club members to call 911 rather than open their doors to strangers, particularly late at night. Help will come for legitimate problems, but the homeowner is not exposed to possible danger.

The sheriff's office is also responsible for sex offender compliance checks. US marshals were in the area assisting with this process. Officers were determining if the registered addresses were the offenders' actual residences.

An increase in heroin use is another area concern. Several overdoses have occurred recently, although not all from heroin. Grey expressed the belief that problems in cities are coming to Mercer County much more quickly. What took years to arrive now takes months. The drug problem is an example of this. After recent drug raids, community members have complained about the release of the arrested individuals. Since people are presumed innocent, they have the right to post bond. If concerned citizens track these cases through the entire trial process, they find that the offenders frequently must serve jail time.

When minor offenders are sentenced, Grey prefers to have them serve time in the county jail if possible. There they can receive rehabilitation and education services which may decrease their chances of becoming repeat offenders. A prisoner can be charged up to $60 per day to offset the cost of incarceration. Since some cannot afford this amount, the average cost recovered is $10 per day. Anyone in a work release program pays ahead. Work release is a privilege given by the court that can be denied by the sheriff if the prisoner does not follow the court's instructions.

Grey finished his address with remarks about the DARE program and the fine work Sue Miller has done with it.

Tom Southard Award Winner 2012

Pictured from left to right: Keith Martin & Allen Baskett, Director of Auglaize & Mercer Counties YMCA & current Safety Council President.

The Grand Lake Area Safety Council, a committee of the Celina Mercer County Chamber gives an award each year, the Tom Southard Award for safety. This award is named in memory of a well respected Safety Council member and Past President who passed away a couple of years ago. Tom Southard was very active and involved in the safety of his fellow employees. The Tom Southard Award is given to honor an individual for their dedication to the practice of safety for their company, fellow employees, and their community.

This year’s Tom Southard Award Winner is Keith Martin. He has been with his company, TruPointe Cooperative LLC for almost 20 years and has seen many changes. He is currently the Director of Safety & Risk Management. This award winner oversees 55 locations. He has been instrumental in building the safety culture of the company. His dedication to safety has shown through many aspects. Keith researches safety information and presents it to his fellow workers. He works with a diverse group including farmers, factory workers, truck drivers, and office personnel. He has conducted many safety workshops and organized medical testing, bloodborne pathogens, CPR, and first aid courses. This winner regularly attends the Grand Lake Area Safety council meetings and is a part of the steering committee, holding the office of President in 2006. He has led the safety council admirably. He also attends the Safety Congress and brings back valuable ideas and information. Keith & his wife Esther live in Celina and have 1 son, Tim. Tim is a JAG in the US Navy and stationed in Rhode Island.

Mercer County Deputies Investigating Fifth Fatal Traffic Crash

The investigation revealed that Matthias J. Pearson, 50, 5218 State Route 29, Celina was the driver and sole occupant of a 1995 Pontiac travelling eastbound on State Route 29. Willie Antuan Brown, 28, 2124 Palisade Blvd, DuPont, WA was the driver and sole occupant of a 2010 International Semi Tractor, without a trailer, westbound on State Route 29 just west of Fleetfoot Road.

Witnesses to the crash stated that Pearson’s vehicle was driving erratically and then veered left of center striking the Semi tractor in the left side fuel tank.

Both Pearson and Brown were transported to Mercer Health by the Mercer County Emergency Squad Service out of Celina. Pearson was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Deputies were assisted at the scene by PUCO, MCERV and Celina Fire Department.

Miss Lake Festival Scholarship Program

left to right Kirsten Fenning 2nd runner up, Emily Werling 1st Runner Up, Jena Sweigart Miss Lake Festival 2011, Kelsea Eblen 3rd Runner Up and Lauren Wenning Miss Lake Festival Princess 2011

Applications are now being accepted for the Miss Lake Festival, Miss Lake Festival Outstanding Teen and Miss Lake Festival Princess Camp!

Deadline is Friday, May 11, 2012

The Miss Lake Festival Pageant is open only to young women who are 17 years of age and a High School Senior by July 23, and no older then 24 years of age on Dec 31, 2013, who are single and have never been married, who live, work or attend school/college in Mercer County. Phases of competition Talent, Private Interview, Evening Wear, Swim Wear

The Miss Lake Festival’s Outstanding Teen Pageant is open only to young women who are 13 years of age and no older than 17 years of age on July 23, 2012, who live in Mercer County and not eligible to compete in the Miss competition. Phases of competition Talent, Private Interview, Evening Wear, Sports Wear and Onstage Question

The Miss Lake Festival’s Princess Camp is open to young ladies who are 5-12 years of age and, who live in Mercer County and not eligible to compete in the Miss Lake Festival’s Outstanding Teen competition. Compete in Onstage Question and Stage Presence Miss Lake Festival Scholarship Pageant will be held on Monday July 23, 2012. jmhoying@watchtv.net or 419-733-0814

Rep. Buchy Applauds Ohio House Passage of Legislation to Improve Veteran Services in Ohio

House Bill 490 enables county veteran service officers to be certified and trained to access discharge forms (DD-214s), which are required to receive access to veteran benefits and services. If a veteran does not have access to his or her DD-214, processing of disability claims or application for benefits is often delayed. In addition, county veteran service officers will be better enabled to detect fraudulent DD-214s to ensure all honorably discharged veterans receive the services to which they are entitled.

In addition, House Bill 490 fulfills the Ohio GI Promise. The spouse or dependents of a veteran who is deceased, regardless of the location of the death, will be eligible for in-state tuition if they are living in Ohio on the first day of their enrollment.

“We are committed to removing red tape and providing services to Ohioans more efficiently,” commented Buchy. “House Bill 490 removes the problems that have prevented our veterans from receiving their benefits. This is a step in the right direction for the continued efforts of streamlining government.”

Additional changes in House Bill 490 include the expansion of the Veterans Advisory Council to provide a voice for the National Guard and the ability for the Department of Veterans Services to publish electronic notices.

House Bill 490 is a component of the mid-biennium review based on recommendations by Governor John Kasich and the Ohio Department of Veterans Services to the Ohio House of Representatives. Having passed from the House, House Bill 490 will now be sent to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.

Bridge Closing

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

Celina Police Investigating Death Of Celina Man

The Celina Police Department is continuing its investigation into the incident, but at this time all indications are that the gunshot was self-inflicted. A final ruling on the cause of death will be made by the Mercer County Coroner’s Office.

Marion Local Officers attend District Training

pictured are the members of the Marion Local FFA Chapter that attended the District 5 officer training- Back Row (L-R) Michelle Schwieterman, Kristen Hemmelgarn, and Kyle Kramer, Front Row (L-R) Ryan Bruns, Lexi Wilker, and Lizzy Wuebker

Six members of the newly elected Marion Local FFA Officer Team embarked on the first leg of their journey to becoming better leaders. They attended the District 5 Officer Training hosted at Fort Recovery last week. The training, which was conducted by The Ohio State University’s Agricultural Education Society members, allowed members to learn about their individual offices. Breakout sessions were conducted that gave each officer the opportunity to learn about their responsibilities as well as ask questions and gain ideas about what should be done. They could also network with FFA members from other local chapters as they went through the training. Furthermore, the officer team came together at the end of the training to set goals for the upcoming year. The Marion Local Officer team will continue this training in the summer as they go through a two-day chapter officer training program.

Foundation Makes Contribution

Kent Phares (right), President of Mercer Health’s Medical, Educational, and Development (MED) Foundation, presents George Boyles, Chief Financial Officer at Mercer Health, with a $5,000 donation to assist with Physician Recruitment. The MED Foundation has partnered with Mercer Health to provide funding to attract qualified physicians who provide health care to the residents in Mercer County. The $5,000 was provided to the MED Foundation through a grant from the Mercer Health Care Fund.

Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) Receives Scholarship Donation from Kaup Pharmacy

Celina, Ohio – The Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) is celebrating its 50th year of incorporation. Julie Miller, WOEF Development Officer acknowledges that, “it is by the generosity of all our scholarship contributors that the WOEF Board is able to offer scholarships to students in our area to help offset college costs.” The foundation recently received a contribution from Kaup Pharmacy located in Fort Recovery, OH.

Gerald M. Kaup, R.Ph, owner and pharmacist of Kaup Pharmacy began his college experience at the Lake Campus for his first two years before deciding on becoming a pharmacy major. Kaup related to Miller that by attending his first two years at the Lake Campus, he had a chance to mature and discover his true interests and was much more academically prepared to continue with his pharmacy major.

Kaup Pharmacy donated to the Academic Excellence Scholarship fund which recognizes the top students from each district if selecting the Lake Campus to further their education. Eligible students are awarded $3,000 and 22 area high schools in Auglaize, Darke, and Van Wert counties as well as Mercer County public schools: Celina, Coldwater, Fort Recovery, Marion Local, Parkway, and St. Henry. Due to the generous support of our donors, over $150,000 is endowed in this scholarship fund.

Jerry Kaup, owner and pharmacist presents the $100 donation to Julie Miller, Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) Development Officer. To find out more about WOEF scholarship program, log onto www.wright.edu/lake/woef.html.

Annual Senior D.A.R.E. Scholarship Luncheon

L-R: Aaron Hess, Coldwater Local Schools; Lauren Buchanan, Parkway Local Schools; Garrett Koesters, St. Henry Local Schools; Abigail Backs, Ft. Recovery Local Schools. Absent: Jamie Wynk and Issac Wilker, Marion Local Schools.

The Annual Senior D.A.R.E. Scholarship Luncheon was held on Tuesday, April 17, 2012, at the Mercer County Elks. Over 70 students, school staff, and guests were in attendance at the luncheon. Guests attending in honor of the seniors were Greg Nietfeld, CAPT; Rick Muhlenkamp, incoming Mercer County Commissioner; Judge Mary Pat Zitter, Juvenile Court; Sharon Brasington, Western Ohio Regional Liaison for Govenor John R. Kasich, state of Ohio; Chief Deputy Gary Thobe, Mercer County Sheriff’s Office; Ken Obringer, Mercer Health; Julie Miller, Wright State-Lake Campus; Laura Sanford, Gateway Outreach Center. The luncheon honors students who have remained true to their 5th grade D.A.R.E. promise. This promise says the student will remain drug, tobacco, and alcohol free.

Commendations were presented to the students from Representative Jim Buchy, Ohio House of Representatives, state of Ohio; Governor John R. Kasich, state of Ohio, and Keith Faber, State Representative. Commendation was presented to the Mercer County D.A.R.E. Boosters from Governor John R. Kasich, state of Ohio.

Essays were received from 43 students this year. The essays are numbered and given to the judges for selection of scholarship winners. The judges do not know who wrote the essay. Six students were awarded a $350 scholarship this year. The winners were Aaron Hess, Coldwater Local Schools; Lauren Buchanan, Parkway Local Schools; Garrett Koesters, St. Henry Local Schools; Abigail Backs, Ft. Recovery Local Schools; Jamie Wynk and Issac Wilker, Marion Local Schools.

Dennis Wendell, St. Henry Local Schools, was the speaker for this event. The theme of the speech was to always do what you know is right and you have be an active and vital part of your school or community and still remain true to yourself and your values.

The meeting area and the luncheon were donated by the Mercer County Elks. The Mercer County D.A.R.E. Program would like to thank all merchants, individuals, and others who continually support this program through their donations to the program. Special thanks go to CAPT, Mercer County Elks, McDonald’s Restaurants, and Mercer Health for their donations to the luncheon.

CLICK HERE - more pictures by Nancy Heppeard

Wear Your Seatbelt…Win a Car program

Kerns Auto Group is once again supporting the Celina Police Department’s Wear Your Seatbelt…Win a Car program by supplying a vehicle that will be given away to a graduating Celina Senior High student. The Celina Police Department began this program to promote the Ohio Traffic Safety Office’s What’s Holding You Back summer safety belt campaign. The 2-door, bronze, Chevrolet Cavalier marks the sixth vehicle donated by Kerns Auto Group since 2006.

Each year, a group of students who meet the graduation criteria are chosen during a qualification drawing. On the last day of school, in conjunction with the Celina Police Department’s Ultimate After-School Party, those students will each draw a key and attempt to start the Chevrolet Cavalier. The student that draws the correct key will win the car.

To qualify a student must be a graduating senior, not have any criminal violations of operator license suspensions, any citations that carry six points. Most importantly, they also have to be free of any violations of Ohio’s safety belt laws.

The Chevrolet Cavalier is currently on display in front of Celina Senior High School. The qualification drawing will be held at the Senior Assembly at Celina Senior High School in May. The Celina Police Department wishes to express its thanks to Kerns Auto Group for their dealerships have provided to this program, even through tough economic times. Their commitment to providing positive reinforcement to young adults has made this program and its benefits possible.

American Red Cross blood drive to be held in memory of Joe Werling

Joe Werling was a lifelong supporter of the Red Cross whether it was providing donor incentives for community blood drives (Pint for a Pound) or racing Go Karts to raise money for the organization. He was also a volunteer firefighter so helping others was something Joe believed in and acted upon.

“Joe was a loyal blood donor himself,” said Kendra Werling, Joe’s wife. “Our daughter Noelle was born with cardiac defects and received blood products before she passed away. I would like to see the entire community attend this drive in Joe’s honor to continue his loyal donations.”

The community is encouraged to donate life-saving blood at this drive held in Joe’s honor. With just an hour of your time, you can save up to three lives by donating blood. Every two seconds someone in America needs blood. Blood products are needed every day by cancer patients, accident and trauma victims, people undergoing surgery, or others needing ongoing or emergency medical care.

Treasurer Mandel Announces 2012 Awards for Ag-LINK Program

"The Ohio Treasury's Ag-LINK program helps Ohio farmers get the most out of each harvest season, and is an important tool to help reduce the up-front burden of paying for things like feed, seed, fertilizer and fuel," said Treasurer Mandel. "Agriculture is one of Ohio's most important industries, impacting every corner of the state. Giving Ohio farmers an opportunity to maximize their returns helps all Ohioans and improves the overall economy."

Ag-LINK, an annual program that has been in existence for 27 years, allows Ohio farmers to apply for interest rate reductions on new or existing loans or lines of credit up to $100,000. Applications to enroll in the program were accepted from January through March of this year. In order to become eligible for the Ag-LINK program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Must be organized for profit;
Must have headquarters and 51% of operations 
maintained in Ohio;
Must obtain an operating loan or line of credit 
from an eligible bank or Farm Credit Lender;
Must use the loan exclusively for agricultural purposes;
Must agree to comply with all program and bank regulations.

View a breakdown of 2012 Ag-LINK awards by region and county.

This year, Treasurer Mandel joined with legislative sponsors to propose statutory changes to the Ag-LINK program to improve its effectiveness. These updates are currently working their way through the legislative process. Among other things, the legislation would raise the maximum amount of an individual loan from $100,000 to $150,000. This limit was initially enacted over 25 years ago, and the Treasurer believes that it is time for this needed adjustment. The legislation also updates from $125 million to $165 million the amount that will be available for Ag-LINK deposits.

In addition to legislative changes, Treasurer Mandel has been seeking to improve the Ag-LINK program administratively. The application has been streamlined and improved to make it easier for farmers to apply, and for the first time this year's entire application process was completed online. For more information on the Ohio Treasury's Ag-LINK program please visit www.OhioTreasurer.gov/AgLink.

Celina Woman Killed In Crash

The investigation into the crash revealed that LeRoy E. Pohlman, 62, 1920 Hartings Road, Maria Stein was driving a 2002 International Semi tractor trailer, owned by Mercer Landmark, southbound on US 127. Jennifer A. Kester, 40, 235 Jackson Drive, Celina, was driving a 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, northbound on US 127. Pohlman and Kester were the lone occupants of their vehicles.

Kester’s vehicle went left of center and struck the rear tires on the semi trailer. Kester’s vehicle went off the east side of the road where it came to rest. Pohlman’s semi proceeded southbound and stopped at the intersection of US 127 and Clover Four Road.

Pohlman was not injured in the crash. Kester’s was pronounced dead at the scene. Coldwater Fire and EMS assisted at the scene as well as units from MCERV.

Celina School Board Agenda - April 16, 2012

Employees Raise the Bar for Cindy Bruns Scholarship Fund

Pictured left to right are committee members and Cindy Bruns’ family members: Shelly Miller (Sister of Cindy Bruns), Pattie Bailey, Kathy Fry, Clarice Gigandet, Brent Miller (Nephew of Cindy Bruns) and Jessie Steinke.

In 1995, a scholarship fund was established in memory of Cindy Bruns, an outstanding nurse and role model for other health care professionals. Since that time, a maximum of two $500 scholarships may be awarded annually to a current employee of Joint Township Hospital interested in continuing education in a medically related field.

The scholarship fund has grown to over $21,000 and will be a permanent endowment to remember Cindy and also provide assistance to employees who are interested in pursuing a degree in a medically related field.

Each year a fundraising committee of employees raise funds through raffles and bake sales. In addition to keeping Cindy’s memory alive, beginning in 2011, the committee began recognizing other dedicated health care professionals who are now deceased, for their service at Joint Township District Memorial Hospital.

The raffles and bake sale are always held the Thursday before Easter. Employees flock to the main entrance to see a bountiful supply of cookies, cakes, and other desserts decorated in the Easter theme, as well as prizes donated by employees and local businesses.

This year bakery and raffle items increased with departments competing within the hospital contributing their support. The revenues also in-creased substantially over the past year— this year raising over $2,500. The Lab Department employees will receive a Sundae Bar courtesy of the Foundation for their outstanding support.

“We are so grateful to co-chairs, Clarice Gigandet, RN, Jessie Steinke, RN ,and Patti Bailey RN, and their committee; Patti Blevins RN, Heather Jurosic RN, Kathy Fry RN, Rae Ann Roettger RN, Michelle Archer RN, and Kimberly Regedanz RN, for their efforts in organizing and raising funds for these scholarships, said Karen Ryals, Executive Director of JTD Hospital Foundation. Several members of the committee, have been recipients of this scholarship fund and pleased to lend a hand to help other employees continue their education.

Mercer County DARE Booster Cup Stacking 2012

CLICK HERE - more pictures by Nancy Heppeard

Marion Local FFA Conducts Trash Clean up

While many students celebrated the start of their Easter break by sleeping in or catching up on episodes of their favorite TV shows, 25 Marion Local FFA members kicked off the break by serving their community. Organized by committee chair, Ross Reichert, this group of teens picked up trash along 10 miles of Marion Township Roads. The students divided into groups, each lead by an adult volunteer, to improve the community in which they live. The last line of the FFA motto is “Living to Serve.” It is through activities like this that students learn the importance of serving their communities and improving the area in which they live. This activity is a yearly tradition of the chapter and all members enjoyed pizza and refreshments after the trash had been collected.

Pictured are Marion Local FFA members that participated in the event. Front Row (L-R) Tegan Fortkamp, Abby Fleck, Jo Hartings, Chad Schlarman, Loren Hein, Alex Hemmelgarn, Zach Hemmelgarn,, 2nd Row – Kiley Schlarman, Third Row (L-R) Ryan Lochtefeld, Ashley Wilker, Kyle Kramer, Tim Droesch, Sean Grieshop, Dustin Meyer, Ross Reichert, Eric Schmitmeyer, Heather Mescher, Dustin Grieshop, Carmen Meyer, Rose Homan, Back Row (L-R) Matt Bertke, Kristen Hemmelgarn, Madison Chrisman, Rachel Rohr, Lexi Wilker, and Meg Schwieterman

Auglaize County Drug Arrests

Arrested were Travarus D. Thompson, 26 and Shannon T. Scott SR, 41 both of Lima. They are being held in the Auglaize County Jail on $1,000,000 – 10% bond. A female with them was taken into custody, but later released pending further investigation.

The drug buy evolved from information received from the Ohio Highway Patrol as part of Operation Shield.

Assisting the Grand Lake Task force in the arrests were deputies from the Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office, Wapakoneta Police, Cridersville Police, and the Ohio Highway Patrol.

The incident remains under investigation.

Stateline Writers Club receives 92 writing contest entries; presentation of winners to be made in May meeting

The club’s writing contest attracted a total of 92 entries from high schools in Auglaize and Mercer counties. Because of this large response, the judging won’t be completed until the April meeting on Saturday, April 21, when narrowed-down choices will be brought to the whole membership to choose the winners. Judges for the contest are Kathleen Pulskamp, Kitti Tolles, Ron Aragon, Nancy Wreede and Gretchen Bollenbacher. Judge Margaret Goodwin was unable to help due to illness. Winners will participate in an award ceremony during the May meeting.

Member Beth Keuneke reminded the Stateline members that interest in presenting a legacy program at the St. Marys Community Public Library in June had been established. A number of members have agreed to read for this presentation. Details will be discussed at the April meeting.

Meetings of the Stateline Writers Club are held at the Celina Mercer County Library on the third Saturday at 10 a.m. Interested persons are invited and encouraged to attend. For more information, contact Gretchen Bollenbacher at 419-363-2692 or fgboll@watchtv.net.

New Chamber Member

Mercer County Liberty Group has joined the Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce. For more info on the Liberty Group, visit www.mercercountylibertygroup.org.

Pictured is Jim Tesno, Liberty Group Secretary and Chamber Director Pam Buschur.

Parkway FFA Chapter Holds Annual Banquet

The Parkway FFA Chapter recently held their 83rd annual FFA banquet. FFA members, family and guests were in attendance to help honor the hard working members as they received their awards. The banquet started off with the 2011-2012 President, Caden Hellwarth, giving a toast. Then the members and guests were welcomed by the newly elected president Lindsey Walls. After a well said invocation by Olivia Smith, the FFA members and guests were dismissed to eat a delicious meal. The meal included roast beef, ham, noodles, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, rolls, tossed salad, and a variety of desserts brought in by the parents. During the meal everyone had the chance to enjoy the slideshow made by the 2011-2012 reporter, Kylie Snyder. The slideshow was a success at showing the FFA members families and guests how much fun the members have throughout the year. After the slideshow, Dustin Knapke spoke as the guest speaker. Dusty served as the chapter’s president in the years 2001-2002. He talked about how FFA has made an impact in her life and how the members of her officer team have impacted her and others around them. After her inspiring speech, the awards ceremony began. This year the Greenhand Degree was given to 27 first year members. Then 13 second year members received their Chapter degree. The ten members that sold the most fruit during fruit sales this past year were recognized, and the Scholarship award was given to 22 members for being on the honor roll for 2 of the 3 nine week periods this year. Next, CDE medals were awarded to students who participated in any Career Development Events. There were 42 members who received the CDE medal. There were nine four year members awarded with a pen set engraved with their name. Lindsey Walls, Tyler Matthews, Kylie Snyder, and Tommy McDonough will receive their State FFA degree at the State FFA Convention in early May. Danielle Matthews is the lone recipient of the American FFA Degree, which she received at the National FFA Convention last October. The Honorary Member was given out by the chapter officers to Mr. and Mrs. Brian Dicke for their help with the Parkway FFA chapter. The officer team then presented Mr. Post with a beautiful slate carving. Caden Hellwarth, this year’s president, gave his retiring address, speaking about the experiences he has had throughout his years in FFA. The FFA members then presented their parents with an engraved cup, as seniors presented their parents with a yellow rose. At the banquet, the FFA chapter inducted a new officer team for the 2012-2013 year, with the newly elected officers as follows: President: Lindsey Walls, Vice-President: Seth Houts, Secretary: Rachel Hesse, Treasurer: Rachel King, Reporter: Kayla Walls, Sentinel: Sierra Fent, and Student Advisor: Kameron Roehm. Finally, the Parkway FFA Chapter would like to thank everyone who attended the banquet and the students for making it a great year.

Sex Offender Arrested

“This operation was conducted to ensure that sex offenders in Mercer County are complying with the law and to hold those accountable who aren’t,” stated Sheriff Grey. “I am happy to report that only one sex offender was found out of compliance. He was arrested. This shows that most offenders are cooperating with us and working to meet their statutory obligation.”

Arrested was Joseph Dima Sanders, 21, for a probation violation for not registering his correct address. “We expect the prosecutor’s office to file failure to register charges against Mr. Sanders very soon,” stated Sheriff Grey.

Currently, there are 8 offenders who have not been verified. Deputies continue to try to locate them. “Some of those not located at this point, will be found in compliance, 2 are going to need additional follow up,” said the Sheriff.

Additionally, Crystal Sue Mann, aka, Mowery was arrested for felony theft and Donald Ginter was taken into custody on an outstanding tax evasion warrant.

Citizens are reminded that they may sign up to receive emails when an offender moves into their neighborhood at the Sheriff’s Office website, www.mercercountysheriff.org.

FBLA 2012 State Leadership Conference

Students at State Leadership Conference with awards

The Parkway Future Business Leaders of America were successful at the 2012 State Leadership Conference, Columbus Ohio. The Chapter received the top honors of first place Gold Seal chapter for the second year in a row. This honor was capped with 8 first-place finishes, 11 second-place finishes, and 15 third-place finishes in various contests. The chapter was also excited to see the awarding of the Leader Award (State recognition of member accomplishments) to Brooke Boznango, Tiffany Deitsch, and Kylie Snyder. Parkway FBLA closed out the conference with the retiring of the 2011-2012 state officers, Reporter Brooke Boznango and Nortwest Vice President Kylie Snyder; then followed by the installation of State Secretary Katelynn Kraner and Northwest Vice President Tiffany Deitsch. Congratulations to all the members who attended and participated in this year’s State Leadership Conference.

Parkway Middle School Chapter of Future Business Leaders of America

Pictured from left to right: Mr. Steve Baumgartner, Nick Brown (Ohio FBLA Central Region Vice President), Kimberly Beavers (Ohio FBLA Adviser)

The Parkway Middle School Chapter of Future Business Leaders of America, Middle Level, attended the State Leadership Conference in Columbus on March 23, 2012. The middle school members arrived at the conference and listed to FBLA State Adviser Kim Beavers’ keynote address. After the keynote address the students competed in Word Processing, Communication, and Presentation contests. The parkway Chapter took home top honors in Word Processing I, Word Processing II, Introduction to Communication, and Career Explorations. The Parkway Chapter also took home a 2nd and 3rd place finish in Business Presentations. The chapter sent 13 members for their first year. Mr. Steve Baumgartner also was awarded the Charter paperwork for the newly founded chapter. The Middle School chapter wants to thank Mr. Baumgartner for his support of the program as well as driving the students to their contest and home. We appreciate all he does for the success of Parkway Middle School, and wish him success in his retirement.

Winner of Golden Egg Hunt

Pictured from left to right: Ted Torge of Card Mart, Kevin Weitzel -winner, and Michelle Huber of Mommy & Me and the Spring Eggstravaganza Chairperson.

Pictured is the winner of the Golden Egg Hunt that was held the end of March in conjunction with the Spring Eggstravaganza in Celina. Several Celina merchants donated prizes and gift certificates that valued over $300. This beautiful basket was arranged by Card Mart. Like the Celina merchant facebook page and keep up with all sales and events or visit www.celinadowntown.com.

THE LAURELS OF SHANE HILL FIRST IN MERCER COUNTY RESIDENT SATISFACTION

Administrator, Steve Schaaf and the Laurel staff are proud of their ranking and believe the 2011 survey confirms their mission of "exceeding the needs and expectations of those we serve".

In addition to the Ohio Department of Aging annual surveys, The Laurels of Shane Hill conducts monthly surveys through My InnerView, an outside third-party survey company. The Laurels consistently exceeds 90% overall satisfaction in the My InnerView surveys as well.

Patrol reminds drivers to keep their eyes on the road

Over the past two years 74 people have died in Ohio in distracted driving crashes

Distracted driving is any non-driving activity a person engages in that has potential to distract him or her from the primary task of driving and increase the risk of crashing. Distractions can be visual – taking eyes off of the road; manual – taking hands off the wheel; or cognitive – taking the mind off driving. Texting while driving is an example that results in all three types of distraction

“Every single time someone takes their eyes or their focus off the road - even for just a few seconds - they put their lives and the lives of others in danger,” said Colonel John Born, Patrol superintendent. “Distracted driving is unsafe, irresponsible and in a split second, its consequences can be devastating.”

According to the National Highway Safety Administration 5,474 people died nationally in 2009 in distraction-related crashes – of these, 18 percent involved cell phone use.

For a complete analysis please visit statepatrol.ohio.gov/doc/Distracted_Driving_Bulletin_2012.pdf

Road Closing

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

Proclamation Signing

“Parents Who Host, Lose The Most: Don’t be a party to teenage drinking” proclamation signing.

Those present at the signing—left to right: Mercer County Commissioners Jerry Laffin, John E. Bruns, and Bob Nuding, Laura Sanford, Prevention Specialist at Gateway Outreach Center and Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey

below is parts of the proclamation:

WHEREAS, adults who provide alcohol to those below the legal drinking age of 21 are placing those youth at risk for health, safety and legal problems, and

WHEREAS, alcohol use by young people is dangerous, not only because of the risks associated with acute impairment, but also because of the threat to their long-term development and well-being, and

WHEREAS, it is illegal to give or allow your teen’s friends to drink alcohol in your home, even with their parents’ permission, and

WHEREAS, anyone found guilty of providing alcohol to youth can face up to a $1,000 fine and six months in jail, in addition to any civil action that can be brought as a result of damages or injury related to the offense, and

WHEREAS, adults have the authority and responsibility to our youth to provide them with alternative opportunities by creating alcohol-free activities, and

WHEREAS, Drug Free Action Alliance, through Parents Who Host, Lose The Most: Don’t be a party to teenage drinking provides the educational materials to raise community awareness regarding this illegal and unhealthy practice, and

WHEREAS, Mercer County encourages residents to refuse to provide alcoholic beverages to underage youth and to take the necessary steps to discourage the illegal and unhealthy practice, including the reporting of underage drinking by calling their local police, and

WHEREAS, be it resolved that Mercer County not only discourages the use of alcohol by those below the legal age of consumption, but also exhorts all residents of Mercer County to refuse to provide alcoholic beverages to those underage youth, and will continue to take the necessary steps to discourage this illegal and unhealthy activity.

Same Driver, Two Crashes

Janelle Schwieterman of Ft Recovery was involved in two accidents on Thurday (4-5-12) with the second sending her via Life Flight to St. Rita's in Lima. Schweiterman was west bound on Fox Road and pulled out in front of a semi-truck going south bound on SR 49. The truck was driven by Jason Miller of DeGraff, Ohio and he was transported to Mercer Health by ambulance.

Earlier in the day in a different vehicle Schwieterman hit a pole on Sharpsburg Road. Her car received only minor damage in this accident.

No condition reports on either driver is available.

Patrol seizes marijuana-laced brownies in Van Wert County traffic stop

Troopers, with the assistance of the Van Wert Police Department, stopped a 1999 Ford F-350 pick-up truck for a following too close violation on US 30 eastbound, near milepost 14, in Van Wert County at 9:50 a.m. on April 6. The passenger was reaching for an object in the center console and would not obey officer orders to show his hands. The passenger was removed from the vehicle at which time a bag of suspected marijuana was observed in plain view. A probable cause search revealed approximately 353 grams of marijuana-laced brownies in the passenger compartment.

The passenger, Anthony Haire, 28, of Thermopolis, WY, was charged with possession of marijuana, a felony of the fifth degree.

The suspect was incarcerated in the Van Wert County Jail. If convicted, he could face up to one year in prison and up to a $2,500 fine.

Multiple Deaths In Mercer County Traffic Accident

UPDATED

(3-31-12) - At least four people have died after a two vehicle traffic crash Saturday night around 830 pm south of Celina on US 127 near SR 274.

At least two medical helicopters were dispatched to the hospital to transport victims.

Mercer County Sheriff deputies are handling the investigation.

Details when they become available

Spring planting & open ditch maintenance

Also, a reminder to those along county-maintained open ditches. By law there is a maintenance easement for access adjacent to the tops of banks of the open ditches. We encourage the use of filter strips to eliminate sedimentation and soil erosion adjacent to the open ditches. Keep in mind that our maintenance crews use the easement for access for the maintenance operations we perform (the spraying of weeds and brush is the most significant maintenance operation).

Should you have any questions related to these requirements, please feel free to call the Commissioners Office at 419-586-3178 or the Engineer’s Office at 419-586-7759.

HEADED FOR STATE

Pictured are (from left to right): Jason Guggenbiller, Justin Hilgeford , Marie Bertke, Abigail Schlarman, Kaitlyn Lehmkuhl, Brittany Sudhoff, and Sean Mertz. Absent when photo was taken: Devin Froning

Tri Star students recently attended the Ohio SkillsUSA Southwest Championships to compete in regional skill contests. Seven seniors and one junior will be moving on to the state level competition April 27-28 at the Ohio State Fairgrounds in Columbus.

Med Prep seniors Kaitlyn Lehmkuhl, Brittany Sudhoff, Marie Bertke and Abigail Schlarman competed in the Health Knowledge Bowl (HKB) and won a gold medal. The HKB tests the knowledge of four-member teams on the core standards from the National Health Care Core Skill Standards. The HKB team’s advisor is Janet Nelson.

Sean Mertz, a senior in Tri Star’s Engineering Technology program, competed in the Engineering Technology/Technical Drafting competition and also earned a gold medal. Advisor and instructor for Engineering Technology is Jon Clouse.

Earning bronze medals were Justin Hilgeford for Computer Maintenance Technology and Devin Froning who competed in Precision Machining Technology. Justin is a senior in Tri Star’s Electronics program and Devin is a junior in the Precision Machining program. Jason Guggenbiller, a senior in Electronics will compete at the state level in the Electronics Technology contest. The Electronics advisor is Jerry Kohnen and Rob Menker is the advisor for Precision Machining.

Early Childhood/FCCLA Students Earn Gold Medals

State Qualifiers include:

Juniors

·April Schlarman, Alyssa Lorton, Lisa Hamberg for their Focus on Children Project
·Sadie Bruggeman and Kelsey Filadelfo for their Chapter Service Project
·Kelly Siefring, Sara Schoenlein, and Brooke Mescher for their Early Childhood Team Event
·Tara Rutter for her Language and Literacy Project
·Brooke Mescher for Job Interview

Senior 

·Erica Wolters for Early Childhood STAR Event 

Erica Wolters

April Schlarman, Alyssa Lorton, Lisa Hamberg

Tara Rutter

Brooke Mescher

Kelly Siefring, Sara Schoenlein, and Brooke Mescher

Sadie Bruggeman and Kelsey Filadelfo

Rockford ATV Rules

1.  Must have a valid drivers license
2.  Insurance on cart (must be shown if asked by Law Enforcement)
3.  Front and Rear lights if operated at night
4.  Obey all normal traffic laws
5.  Not to be driven on Main Street in business district
6.  Not to be driven over 20 mph on any street

Roadside Herbicide - To spray or not to spray

Anyone who has sensitive areas adjacent to any road right-of-way and does not wish for those areas to be treated must erect signs reading “Do Not Spray”.

For further information, contact the office of the Mercer County Engineer at 419-586-7759.

Celina Suicide Investigated

Sheriff Grey further announced that on March 27, 2012 at approximately 11:53 PM deputies were dispatched to the same residence in reference to a domestic situation between Christina and Michael. At that time, Michael was arrested for Domestic Violence and booked into the Mercer County Detention Center, where he later posted bond and was released.

The incident remains under investigation. Deputies at the scene were assisted by agents from the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Interrogation.

Waves Going To Nationals

(3-28-12) - The Auglaize Mercer Family YMCA (AMFY) Waves swim team will have seven representatives competing April 2 - 5, 2012 at the Greensboro Aquatic Complex, Greensboro, North Carolina. Wave team members competing at Nationals this year are: front row: Jared Deubler, Tyus Temple, and Josh Fleagle. Back row: Matt Hollman, Matt Feltz, Peyton Jones, and Jared Fleagle.

Rockford Residents / Public Notice

1. The Village of Rockford will NOT be holding a clean up day in 2012.

2. There is program in place to get rid of large items. Maharg’s large item trash tickets are available at the Village office. Example: It would cost $5.00 to get rid of a piece of furniture. This program is available at the Village office throughout the year.

3. The Parkway FFA program holds a recycle day the 3rd Saturday of each month.

4. We are enacting a clean up Rockford program. Starting April 1st we will be issuing warnings for junk vehicles and non-plated vehicles. After 5 days the owner will be issued a citation and the vehicle will be towed at the owner’s expense. Other warnings will be issued in cases of junk/rubbish that needs cleaned up. Included will be the enforcement on grass and noxious weeds growing to a height exceeding 8 inches.

We are making every effort to keep Rockford a clean/family friendly village and with your help we can make it happen.

Mid-Biennium Budget Review—Promising More Government Accountability and Efficiency

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy

This process is certainly a unique practice in the affairs of state government. This additional step of fiscal conservatism allowed our state government to identify ways to cut more than $91 million from the various budgets for the second year of the biennium. More importantly, the Mid-Biennium Budget Review provides methods to make a number of significant changes regarding outdated policies, ending duplicative or inefficient programs, close tax loopholes, cut bureaucracy, and make the best use of technologies.

This is part of what Governor Kasich calls his Management Efficiency Plan, which he recently proposed. The plan is designed to reduce costs and improve delivery of services for Ohio taxpayers. In testimony before the Ohio House Finance and Appropriations Committee, the Director of the office of Budget and Management, Timothy Keen, said, “It has been the most thorough budget and policy review outside of the preparation of the biennial budget process that I have experienced in my more than 25 years of involvement in state budgeting.” My experience in government tells me this will make a difference and is the type of medicine we need to stop wasteful bureaucratic spending. In our homes we review our budget monthly, it is time government use this type of common sense and responsibility.

Governor Kasich and officials in his cabinet are stressing the importance of developing new strategies to improve the management of Ohio’s government agencies and health systems, focus on Ohio’s education and workforce development efforts, and provide Ohioans access to low-cost, reliable sources of energy and fuel. The main highlights of the Mid-Biennium Review call for an education and workforce development, management efficiency, and more control and savings for local governments.

In our region, strong families have served as an example to generations for hard work and good money management. The least we can do is expect the same from our government. Together our government will work to cut red tape, reduce government cost, and ensure funding is being allocated appropriately. Over the past year and a half, many constituents have pointed out government inefficiencies that have directly led to the savings of Ohio tax dollars. This continued discussion will benefit all Ohioans.

Road Closed

Contractor for this project: Jutte Excavating, Dan Jutte (419) 375-4435.

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

Amiran’s AG Conversions Division Announces the Building of a New Manure Reclamation Facility in the Grand Lake St. Marys Watershed

“Amiran’s AG Conversions Division will be breaking ground this spring for the new 30,000-sq. foot plant and a 7,000-sq. foot visitor and research center on a 10-acre site on Hwy 127 south of Celina,” said Paul Chadwick, the company’s executive vice president of business development.

Chadwick addressed a group of area farmers and officials at a workshop on the subject in Maria Stein.

Chadwick said the $12 million plant will employ about 60 full-time workers and about another 180 indirect workers. They hope to start production this August.

This facility, the only one of its kind in the world, represents the upstream component of the company’s two-tiered plan to help clean up the watershed. The company is also proceeding to have a mobile facility which will turn the material dredged from the lake and currently stored on state owned or leased land into high quality, organic potting soil for sale to the public.

“This technology is so new and proprietary, we hope to replicate this in other areas of the country and world where waterways are polluted,” Chadwick said.

The AG Conversions Grand Lake St. Marys Watershed Facility will have the capacity to produce close to 600,000 tons of dry, organic fertilizer each year. Since this is cutting-edge technology developed by Dr. Mohsen Amiran, the company’s chief scientific officer, to mitigate and minimize the harmful effects of phosphorus from farm manure runoff on the health of lakes and streams with the goal of reducing the toxic blue-green algae blooms, it is the goal of the company’s visitor and research center to attract and educate people from around the world who are seeking solutions to similar environmental problems.

Website: www.agconversions.net For FAQ’s and photos/drawings.

Marion Local Recognizes outstanding FFA Members

Star Recipients are pictured (L-R) Top member, Kyle Kramer, Top Junior Kristen Hemmelgarn, Top sophomore Michelle Schwieterman, Top Freshman Heather Mescher, and Top Senior Ashley Wilker

The Marion Local FFA Chapter recently hosted its second annual parent-member banquet. The banquet served more than 210 guests at the Knights of St. John Hall in Maria Stein. It included a full meal and a well-organized program to recognize students, community members and other supporters that had made the year a success.

The recognition program started with remarks from High School Principal, Mr. Tim Goodwin, and Marion Local Ag Ed Booster President, Mr. Terry Mescher. The program then shifted to recognize the ten students that had filled out proficiency award application. These awards are based on outstanding Supervised Agricultural Experience. Each student recognized was also given a $25 cash award sponsored by a local business. Students that were recognized included: Keith Bohman, Kyle Kramer, Abby Fleck, Tyler Fleck, Sam Poeppelman, Molly Hardesty, Carmen Meyer, Kevin Miller, Conner Unrast, and Ashley Wilker. The local sponsors for these awards included: Prengers Inc., Homan Inc., Maria Stein Grain, Maria Stein Animal Clinic, Marion Young Farmers, Bambauer Fertilizer and Seed, and Minton Veterinary Clinic.

The next portion of the program recognized students that participated in more than 10 different Career Development Events. These events are contests that take place throughout the year that allow students to apply the concepts that are taught in the classroom to a real-life, competitive situation. Forty-five different FFA members competed on various contest teams throughout the year.

The banquet than recognized the five members that will be receiving the State FFA Degree. Because of the young nature of the Marion Local FFA Chapter, which is currently in its second year of existence, these five students mark the first members to get the degree. Approximately 2% of Ohio’s 23,000 FFA members receive this honor annually. The degree will be conferred at State Convention in May. Marion Local’s recipients include: Keith Bohman, Kevin Miller, Kyle Kramer, Nicole Bertke, and Molly Hardesty.

The Chapter then awarded its first Honorary FFA Degree to Dr. Mark Hardesty. The honorary Degree recognizes those supporters that have rendered outstanding service. It is the highest honor that a chapter can bestow on a supporter. Dr. Hardesty was recognized for his work in starting the ag program and his service as an Advisory Council member and President of the Ag Ed Boosters.

The top members in each grade were then recognized. This recognition in based on a points system and takes into account the member’s academic record in Agricultural Education Classes, their Supervised Agricultural Education Program, and their FFA involvement. Top Freshman was Heather Mescher, Top Sophomore was Michelle Schwieterman, Top Junior was Kristen Hemmelgarn, and Top Senior was Ashley Wilker. The Top Overall member was Kyle Kramer.

The banquet ended with an address from Andy Vance, a past farm broadcaster and current editor for the agricultural publication Feedstuffs. He congratulated all members, parents, and supporters on a job well done and encouraged them to continue to promote and support agriculture.

Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) Matches a $500 Scholarship from Dynamic Federal Credit Union

Celina, Ohio – The Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) is celebrating its 50th year of incorporation. Julie Miller, WOEF Development Officer acknowledges that, “it is by the generosity of all our scholarship contributors that the WOEF Board is able to offer scholarships to students in our area to help offset college costs.” The foundation recently received a $500 donation from Dynamic Federal Credit Union located in Celina, OH.

Dynamic FCU is awarding a new $500 scholarship which will have a cash match from the WOEF Board for one WSU Lake Campus student. Dynamic FCU awards three $700 scholarships annually to credit union members continuing their education. They also support continuing education for their employees by offering generous tuition reimbursement benefits. Dynamic FCU also supports financial education in secondary schools. They sponsor a $5,000 video scholarship award opportunity and have shown winning videos in the 7th & 8th grade Consumer Math classes. For more information about Dynamic FCU and their scholarship and financial programs, log onto www.dynamicfederalcu.com.

Diane Rodriguez, Dynamic Federal Credit Union, CEO, (left) presents the $500 donation to Julie Miller, Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) Development Officer To find out more about WOEF scholarship program, log onto www.wright.edu/lake/woef.html.

Grand Lake/Wabash Watershed Alliance

What is the Ohio Workplace Freedom Amendment?

Workplace freedom is about choice – the choice to join a union, and the choice to not join a union. Workplace freedom guarantees that decision is left to each individual’s personal preference, and insures that no one is forced to join a union against their will or pay union dues or fees just to have a job.

Unfortunately, Ohio is currently a “forced union” state. That means – if a workplace is unionized, in order to have a job at that place of business, you can be forced to pay union dues or fees just to have a job.

Additionally, research shows that states who are Right to Work have economically grown at a faster rate than "forced union" states: Right to Work states average 108% to Ohio's 34%. As well as have more gained income: Right to Work states at 164% to Ohio's 45%. Ohio has also lost 600,000 jobs in the last decade and 3500 businesses in the last three years. It is time that we Ohioans do something to bring growth back to our state, and one way to do this is through WORKPLACE FREEDOM (RIGHT TO WORK).

The Mercer County Liberty Group is participating in gathering signatures to get this amendment on the November 2013 ballot. 365,000 valid signatures is needed to do so. In order to accomplish this we are looking for volunteers, or people who want to become paid circulators to gather signatures. Paid circulators will get paid $1.50 a signatures. You can get signatures where ever and whenever you want. It is a great way to make some extra money for a vital cause.

If you are interested, please email MERCERCO.LIBERTYGROUP@YAHOO.COM or contact us at 419-305-2680 or 419-305-4900. Only together can we make a difference.

COSI On Wheels Returning To Mercer Healthy Living Expo, March 31

According to Ken Obringer, Director of Marketing & Communications at Mercer Health, the Expo is an extension of the traditional health fair. He says, “We are pleased to be able to offer this unique event to area residents. We have exhibits and activities that will appeal to children as well as adults.”

Returning to the Expo this year is COSI on Wheels. Obringer says, “We are excited to bring this fun and educational exhibit to the area again this year. They will be bringing in their displays that include 20 different interactive activities for children of all ages.”

Also returning this year is the Prescription Drug Take Back Program. Obringer says, “We will have Mercer County Sheriff personnel at the Expo to facilitate this program. Anyone who has outdated prescription drugs or medications that they no longer take have the opportunity to safely dispose of them. This is the safest way to get rid of unwanted medications.”

Obringer states, “In addition to COSI, we will have over 50 other exhibits that feature activities ranging from free screenings for vision, hearing, blood pressure, weight, and child development to fall prevention information. The Mercer County Health Department will be offering Tdap vaccines ($10 for ages 10 to 18 and $48 for ages over 18) as well as a finger stick lead test ($10).”

A number of blood tests will also be offered. Renee Kinney, Mercer Health’s Director of Community Services, states, “Two of the tests require a fast beforehand. They include the Lipid Profile (12 hour fast required) for $20 and the Comprehensive Metabolic Health Panel (2 hour fast) for $25.”

Other blood tests available include the C-Reactive Protein-hs ($20), Vitamin D Screening ($35), Hemoglobin A1C ($25), Complete Blood Count (Anemia Screening - $10), Prostate (PSA) Screening ($30), and a Thyroid Screening (TSH and Free T4 - $40). Free colorectal cancer test kits will also be available.

A wide variety of agencies will be offering free screenings. Among those available are screenings for glaucoma, vision testing, blood pressure, glucose, CO monitoring, dermascan, height, weight & BMI with body fat analysis, visual acuity screening, osteoporosis, hearing, and child development screening.

Obringer states, “In Mercer County, this is the largest gathering of agencies involved in the physical and mental well being of people of all ages. Mercer Health is proud to be able to take the lead in this effort and hopes everyone takes advantage of this unique opportunity. Admission is free, and we will be offering free food and refreshments.”

In addition to nearly 20 exhibits and screenings by Mercer Health, other agencies participating include Community Sports & Therapy Center, Mercer County Sheriff, Mercer County Department of Children Services, Sources, Briarwood Village, Celina Manor, Gateway Outreach Center, The Gardens at Celina and at St. Henry, Mercer County Head Start, Miller House, Mercer County Help Me Grow, Mercer County WIC, Mercer County OSU Extension Service, Grand Lake Regional Cancer Center, Mercer County American Red Cross, Mercer County Board of Developmental Disabilities, St. Charles Senior Living Center, Grand Lake Podiatry, Family Audiology Associates, Mercer County Chronicle, West Central Ohio Regional Healthcare Alliance (WCORHA), Boy Scouts of America, Girl Scouts of America, OUR Home, Auglaize-Mercer Counties Family YMCA, Mercer County DARE, American Cancer Society, Mercer County Health Department, Life Connections of Ohio & Lions Eye Bank, Colonial nursing Center, Wellness To The Core, Revival Spa, Snap Fitness, Zumba With Char, Foundations of Mercer County, Medical Reserve Corps, The Laurels of Shane Hill, Professional Family Eye Care, Orthopedic Institute of Ohio, and Ft. Recovery Family Medicine. Persons wanting more information can call 419-678-5613 or 419-586-1220 or go to facebook.com/mercerhealth.

Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) Garners Scholarship Donation from Setex Corporation

Celina, Ohio – The Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) is celebrating its 50th year of incorporation. Julie Miller, WOEF Development Officer acknowledges that, “it is by the generosity of all our scholarship contributors that the WOEF Board is able to offer scholarships to students in our area to help offset their college costs.” The foundation recently received a donation from the Setex Corporation located in St. Marys, OH. Setex produces automotive seating and was established in Ohio in 1987.

Setex, Inc. has created two scholarships. The $3,000 scholarships will be awarded to two high school seniors from Allen, Auglaize, Darke, Mercer, or Shelby County, enrolled at WSU-Lake Campus in Engineering and one senior enrolled at WSU-Lake Campus in Business. The students must be full time students (12 credit hours) and maintain a GPA of 2.8 or higher. These two scholarships will be renewable for each of these students for up to two additional years.

Representatives from Western Ohio Educational Foundation, WSU-Lake Campus Engineering and Setex met recently for a tour of the St. Marys Setex facility and the check presentation.

To find out more about WOEF scholarship program, log onto www.wright.edu/lake/woef.html.

Youth groups to collect litter

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart issued the warning recently to protect the various groups of people who will be participating in the Litter Pick-up Program this spring. “Clean-up crews are set to begin work in late March and typically complete the project by late spring,” Wiechart said.

The litter pick-up program is a joint project funded by the County Engineer’s Office and Township Trustees who pay recognized civic and community groups who participate. Safety vests, gloves and bags are provided by the Engineer’s Office and the Mercer County Solid Waste District. The Engineer’s Office and the Township Trustees pay the disposal fees.

Easter Egg Hunt

Celina Downtown Manager, Dave Smith accepts a donation of toys to be used as prizes for the Easter Egg Hunt from WalMart manager, Chris Caroll. The Celina Easter Egg Hunt will be held on Saturday, March 31st at 10AM on the Mercer County Courthouse lawn. There will be four age groups, lots of prizes, and egg dying by Celina High School Spirit Squad. Other donations have been made to the Easter Egg Hunt by Celina Insurance Group, Leugers Insurance, Deluxe Dry cleaners, Stammen Insurance, and Wabash Mutual. In addition to the Easter Egg Hunt, there will be special sales and promotions. Visit www.celinadowntown.com or www.celinamercer.com for a flyer on the Spring Egg-stravaganza.

More Mercer County Drug Arrests

Joshua Kittle, age 28,  12799 SR 354 St. Marys, 
3 Counts of Trafficking in drugs (Marijuana & Cocaine), 
Felonies of the 5thdegree.

 John Huelsmeyer, age 70, 911 North 7th Street, Coldwater, 
3 Counts of Trafficking in drugs 
(Marijuana & Prescription medication), 
Felonies of the 5thdegree.

Adam Rodriguez, age 20, 205 Lincoln Drive, Celina, 
2 Count of Trafficking in drugs (Heroin) Felony 
of the 5th degree, 1 Count of Trafficking in Drugs 
(Heroin) within a 1000 feet of a school, Felony 
of the 4thdegree, 2 Counts Counterfeit Controlled 
substance, Felony of the 5th degree, 1 Count of 
Counterfeit Controlled substance within 1000 
feet of a school, Felony of the 4thdegree..

Jacquelynn Slone, age 19, 324 East Wayne, Celina, 
1 Count of Trafficking in drugs (Heroin), within 
the vicinity of a juvenile, Felony of the 4th 
degree, 1 Count Counterfeit Controlled Substance, 
within the vicinity of a juvenile, Felony of 
4th degree.

Kyle Black, age 23, 11279 East Drive, St Marys, 
2 Counts of Trafficking in drugs (Heroin), 
Felonies of the 5th degree, 2 Counts Counterfeit 
Controlled substance, Felonies of the 5thdegree, 
1 Count Counterfeit Controlled Substance, within 
the vicinity of a juvenile, Felony of the 4th degree, 
1 Count Counterfeit Controlled substance, within 
1000 feet of a school, Felony of the 4thDegree.

Shawn Feierstein, age 19, 5691 Johnston Road, 
Celina, 1 Count Trafficking in drugs (Marijuana), 
Felony of the 5th degree.

Danny Gates, age 56, 107 North Leblond Street, Celina, 
3 Counts Trafficking in drugs (Prescription medication), 
Felonies of the 5th degree,  1 Count of Trafficking 
in Drugs (Prescription medication) within the vicinity 
of a juvenile, Felony of the 4thdegree.

Randy Diedrich, age 23, 
address given as the Mercer County Adult 
Detention Facility, 3 Counts Trafficking 
in drugs (Heroin), Felonies of the 5thDegree.  
TURNED HIMSELF INTO CELINA PD

Joseph Gardner, age 22, address given 
as the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility, 
2      Counts Trafficking in drugs (Heroin), 
Felonies of the 5th Degree.  TURNED HIMSELF 
INTO THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE. 

Deb Huston, age 56, 100 Meyer Road, Celina, 
2 Counts Trafficking in drugs (Prescription medication), 
Felonies of the 5thdegree, 1 Count Trafficking 
in drugs (Prescription medication), Felony of 
the 3rd degree.

Tina Hall, age 45, 710 Devonshire, Celina, 2 
Counts Trafficking in drugs (Heroin), Felonies 
of the 5th degree, 1 Count Trafficking in drugs 
(Heroin) within the vicinity of a juvenile, 
Felony of the 4thdegree.

Angel Diedrich, age 24, 751 Deford, Celina, 
2 Counts Trafficking in drugs (Heroin), 
Felonies of the 5th degree.

Tess Flowers, age 38, 126 Lakeview Drive, Celina, 
arrested for Endangering children, Misdemeanor of 
the 1st degree.

Jessica Bradburn, age 33, 632 Grove Street, Celina, 
arrested for, Misdemeanor of the 1stdegree.

INDICTMENTS SERVED TO SUBJECTS CURRENTLY INCARCERATED 
AT THE MERCER COUNTY ADULT DETENTION FACILITY:

Roy Schmidt, age 28, 616 North Walnut Street, Celina, 
3 Counts Trafficking in drugs (Heroin & Cocaine), 
Felonies of the 5thdegree.

Jason Bollenbacher, age 31,433 East Livingston Street, Celina, 
2 Counts Trafficking in drugs (Prescription medication), 
Felonies of the 4th degree.

Reginald Flowers, age 45, 126 Lakeview Drive, Celina, 
2 Counts of Traffic in Drugs (Heroin), within 
the vicinity of a juvenile, Felonies of the 4th degree, 
1 Count Trafficking in Heroin, Felony of the 5thdegree.

James Baker, age 30, 209 Reynolds Ave., Spencerville, 
3 Counts Trafficking in drugs (Heroin), Felonies of 
the 5thdegree, 1 Count trafficking in drugs (Heroin), 
Felony of the 4thdegree.

INDICTMENTS & CHARGES SERVED AS SUMMONS:

17 Year old female Juvenile, summoned 
for being an Alleged Delinquent child, 
if she were an adult she would be charged 
with 2 Counts of Trafficking in drugs (Heroin), 
Felonies of the 5thdegree.

Stanley Eisenhut, age 60, 8373 SR 703, Celina, 
3 Counts of Trafficking in drugs 
(Controlled Substance Analog), Felonies of 
the 5th Degree

ARRESTED IN CONNECTION OF THE DRUG INVESTIGATION:

Vernon Huelsmeyer, age 47,911 North 7th Street, Coldwater.  
Vernon was arrested at the residence of his father 
John Huelsmeyer for possession of drugs (Marijuana) 
and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Jeff Hall, age 25, 3101 Portage Blvd Apt. 12, Fort Wayne, 
Arrested on an outstanding warrant from Celina Municipal 
Court for Failure to Appear.

Juvenile Arrested In Colwater

On Monday March 19, 2012 at 6:48PM officers were called to the Northview Trailer Court in regards to an assault. A 10-year Coldwater male was reporting the assault by an 11-year old Coldwater male. The 11-year old suspect yelled at the 10-year old victim and then pointed a compound bow loaded with a metal tipped arrow at him. He put the bow away and then chased the victim knocking him to the ground. The mother of the suspect said the bow was a toy, but after retreiving the item it was found not to be a toy. The bow and 2 arrows were taken as evidence.

The report will be forwarded to the Mercer County Prosecutor's office for review of charges.

Dog Bite In Coldwater

The victim was taken to the hospital for treatment of injuries. The investigating officer was told the victim received stitches and will possibly need plastic surgery to repair the injuries. The victim’s family did not want the matter investigated criminally any further.

The police department notified the Mercer County Dog Warden Tom Powell. Powell told the officer to have the owner quarantine the dog for 14 days in which the officer did. The dog warden said he was going to follow up with the dog owner at a later time.

Road Closed

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

Coldwater Property Damage

On Tuesday, March 13, 2012 at 6:40PM it was reported that someone had thrown a landscaping brick through a front porch window of a residence in the 200 block of East College Street. On Saturday, March 17, 2012 at 3:08PM it was reported that someone had thrown a brick through a garage window causing damage to the window and also a lawn mower inside at a residence in the 400 block of East Walnut Street. The exact time of the damage was not known.

If anyone would have noticed something occurring at either of these locations, you are asked to contact the Coldwater Police Department at 419-678-2356.

Parkway FFA Members Compete at Public Speaking Contests

Caden Hellwarth and Kayla Walls

In February, the Parkway FFA Chapter sent 4 members to the sub-district public speaking contests in Delphos. Kayla Walls, Whitney Rollins, Sierra Fent, and Caden Hellwarth all participated in the contest.

Kayla Walls and Whitney Rollins presented the FFA creed. In this contest, the contestant says the creed by memory and when the member is done presenting he or she is asked questions about the creed. Whitney placed 7th and received a gold rating while Kayla placed 2nd and will move onto districts; she also received a gold rating.

Sierra Fent participated in the pre-pared speaking contest. She had to prepare a 3-5 minute long speech ahead of the contest and then present it to a judge. Sierra placed 4th overall and received a gold rating.

Caden took part in the extemporaneous public speaking contest. Participants in this contest are required to select a random agriculture related event from a hat. They are given thirty minutes to research the topic and write a 4-6 minute long speech. Caden placed 1st and received a gold rating.

Caden and Kayla represented Parkway in Hardin Northern at the district contest. They both received gold ratings but will not advance to the next round. The Parkway FFA chapter would like to congratulate all of the contestants on their hard work and success.

Truck Theft Arrest In Celina

A Celina man is being held in the Mercer County Adult Detention facility in connection with the theft of a red 2007 Toyota pickup truck from a Bruns Avenue home. The truck was reported stolen on Thursday at 3:49PM. The owner returned home after being out of town for a day. His pickup, which had been parked in the garage, was gone when he arrived home. The keys that had been inside the home were also gone.

The vehicle was located just after midnight on Friday, after a citizen who was familiar with the victim called the police department to report that he had seen the truck parked behind a downtown business. Officers found the vehicle in the 100 block of W. Fayette Street, behind Club Oasis. Witness statements indicated the driver had parked the vehicle and went into an apartment at 116 ½ W. Fayette Street. There were several people at that apartment, but the investigation led officers to placing Anthony N. Wilson (22), 537 Touvelle Street, Apt. D, Celina, under arrest for possession of stolen property. He appeared in Celina Municipal Court the morning and was ordered held on $250,000 bond.

While no signs of forced entry were found at the victim’s home, it was discovered that the emergency release on the garage door had been tripped, disengaging the automatic garage door opener. Once the emergency catch has been tripped, the garage door can be pushed up by hand. The technique of tripping the emergency release from outside a locked garage has been a growing problem nationwide. As is the case with many other current issues, the Internet has allowed the details of how this technique works to spread quickly. Fortunately by searching the web, you can also find some simple solutions that will help keep you from becoming a victim of this type of criminal activity. Blinding garage door windows and setting up your emergency release so it will not function when pulled towards the door are simple solutions that will help keep your garage secure.

Marion Local Raises Money for Children’s Hospital

Pictured are Mr. Bill Elking and Marion Local FFA President Kyle Kramer.

“Living to Serve” is the fourth line of the FFA Motto, and Marion Local FFA members put action to this phrase as part of their National FFA Week Celebration. The members organized an activity for the entire student body that would raise money for Children’s Hospital. The mission was simple, to tape Social Studies Teacher, Mr. Bill Elking, to the wall. FFA members sold strips of duct tape during lunch for $1 each. As the students bought their piece of tape, they placed it on Mr. Elking. As the participation grew, so did the amount of tape, until he was taped to the wall. At the end of both lunch periods, $272 had been raised for Children’s hospital. Marion Local FFA members would like to thank the student body and staff for their donations, as well as Moeller Trucking for their donation; and Mr. Elking for being a great sport.

CLICK HERE - Celina High School 2nd Trimester Honor Roll

Heckler Speaks At Kiwanis Meeting

On March 14 the Kiwanis Club of Celina hosted Matt Heckler of the Mercer Soil and Water Conservation District. Heckler described the responsibilities of the office. Their work includes developing and protecting wetlands as well as dealing with drainage and watershed issues. They also investigate pollution complaints in cooperation with the EPA. Heckler concluded his presentation with a question and answer session.

New Chamber Member

Kim Custenborder, Development Coordinator and Pam Buschur, Chamber Director

Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley has joined the Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce. Mercer County is served by the agency. Catholic Social Services are located at 1201 Fairington Drive, Sidney. For more information on their services or to contact them, visit www.cssmv.org or call 1-800-300-2937. Pictured from left to right is

Mercer County Snow & Ice Statistics

Mercer County, 387.945 miles of roads

12 snow plows average 32 miles per route (one way)

18 days of snow & ice control in winter of 2011-2012

Salt used – 523.25 tons  =  $35,457.48
Grit used – 523.25 tons  =    $3,924.38
Total material costs during the winter season 
= $39,381.86

Total regular labor hours on snow & ice = 572 hours
Overtime hours = 337 hours

Total costs for snow & ice during the season 
= $102,771.86 (Equip., labor, & material)

Average cost for snow & ice control 		
2007-2008 season = $852.57/mile
2008-2009 season = $774.25/mile
2009-2010 season = $814.98/mile
2010-2011 season = $1,073.46/mile
2011-2012 season = $264.91/mile

Submitted by-
Jim Wiechart
Mercer County Engineer 

Coldwater Man Arrested For Aggravated Menacing

On Wednesday, March 14th, at 10:35AM the Coldwater Police Department was called to the 300 block of S. Market Street on the report of a man with a gun that had threatened two neighbors with it. Upon arrival officers took Cody J. Black, 30, of 403 S. Market Street into custody. Through the investigation it was found that two residents of 318 S. Market Street were working on their vehicles. Black, who resides diagonally across from the victims, came out of the house carrying a handgun in a holster and started crossing the street swinging the holster back and forth. Black was reportedly yelling at the two victims about the noise and making threats towards them. The victim’s then called 911. Investigating officers located a 9MM handgun which was loaded.

Black was arrested for Aggravated Menacing (misdemeanor of the first degree) and incarcerated into the Mercer County Detention Center. He will be making an appearance in Celina Municipal Court later in the week.

Pit Bull Attack In Celina

Pit bull involved in the attack

3-12-12 - The Celina Police responded to a call of a subject being attacked by a pit bull on Friday at 4:22PM. Officers arrived to find the victim was in a basement of a home at 214 Elm Street. The attack was ongoing as officers arrived and the victim was pinned in the far corner of the basement by the dogs involved. One of the dogs was actually hanging on his left leg and he could not reach the basement stairs.

As they entered the basement, officers found the victim against the opposite wall. Two dogs were actively biting him at that time. While they had initially drawn their service weapons as a precaution, the close confines of the basement created a dangerous situation had a weapon been discharged. Officers used pepper spray to fend off the attacking dogs and hold them at bay while the victim was helped up the stairs to a waiting emergency squad. The dogs were them locked in the basement until the Mercer County Dog Warden was able to respond and take them into custody. One adult female pit bull and three pit bull mixed pups were taken from the home. A fourth pit bull mixed pup that was in a dog pen at the time of the attack was left at the home.

The victim was found to be Douglas Thomas, age 55. He was a resident of the home where the attack took place, but the dogs belonged to his step son, Kevin D. Weaver (30), who is also a resident of the home. He suffered from bite injuries to his lower left leg, right ring finger, and left forearm. The injuries included puncture wounds along with torn skin and tissue. He was transported to JTDMH in St. Marys, but later transferred to Lima Memorial Hospital for surgery. He is currently listed in stable condition.

From statements gathered at the scene it appears Mr. Thomas was checking on the pup that was in the dog pen, which had recently been treated by a vet. The adult female pit bull, mother of all the younger dogs in the basement, was chewing on the dog pen when he walked downstairs. As he walked towards the pen the mother pit bull turned and attacked him. One of the other three pups, which were all loose in the basement, joined in the attack. The dogs will be held by the Mercer County Dog Warden for the quarantine period required by law. The Celina Police investigation was turned over to the Mercer County Health Department.

Rep. Buchy Announces Start of “Ohio Ag Week”

“The hard work of Ohio’s farmers helps to feed the state and the country each year,” said Rep. Buchy, a member of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee. “Ohio Ag Week is a time for us to recognize all that these men and women do.”

As the leading industry in Ohio, agriculture generates $98 billion each year and employs one in seven Ohioans. Mercer County is the state’s leader in all hogs and pigs and ranks second in the number of cattle, calves and milk cows. Darke County is Ohio’s leading producer of both corn for grain and soybeans.

Ohio Agriculture Week was first recognized last year, after Governor Kasich signed into law House Bill 89.

Patrol focused on impaired driving arrests in 2012

Releases 2011 OVI Statistics

Throughout 2011 troopers made 23,708 OVI arrests statewide, an increase of seven percent over 2010 arrests. Of these, more than one in five – 21 percent - included a speed violation; 16 percent included a violation for driving without a valid driver license; and nearly one in eight included a safety belt violation.

In addition, there were 13,799 OVI-related crashes on Ohio roadways, killing 401 and injuring 8,517.

“We can’t fight the battle against impaired driving on our own – We need your commitment to make our roads safe,” said Colonel John Born, Patrol superintendent. “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.”

The public is encouraged to call #677 to report impaired drivers, drug activity or stranded motorists.

To view a copy of the entire statistical recap, visit http://www.statepatrol.ohio.gov/doc/OVI_Bulletin_2012.pdf

New Business To Open In Coldwater

A new business in Coldwater to open soon - Northwest Ohio Broadband - with the main goal to bring better High Speed Internet Access to Rural Parts of Mercer/Auglaize/Darke/Shebly County at a lower cost. The lowest package starts at 20 dollars a month with a 1meg package and the Highest Package to be offered is a 10meg package for around 70 dollars a month.

Also being offerd will be a home phone service via Voip (Voice Over IP). The new company will also offer computer repair. Plan statr date will be Mid Summer as soon as details are completed with the county.

Northwest Ohio Broadband is currently taking pre-registration at http://nwohiobb.com/pre.php.

More information can be found at http://nwohiobb.com or calling at 567-510-0034 or emailing at sales@nwohiobb.com.

National Farmers Recognizes Ft. Recovery’s Muhlenkamp Farms at 2012 Convention

AMES, IOWA (March 7, 2012) — Tom and Doris Muhlenkamp, Ft. Recovery, Ohio, received accolades for excellence in dairy operations at National Farmers National Convention Jan. 31.

Tom, who farms with his brother, Ralph, received the award for the Great Lakes Gulf Region. Tom is the son of Don and Dorothy Muhlenkamp, and a longtime participant in the National Farmers dairy and livestock programs. They milk about 300 cows year around, and are stakeholders in the Burkettsvílle Marketing Center. The Burkettsville Marketing Center ranked first in volume in 2011 for National Farmers livestock marketing centers.

Tom serves on the board of the Western Ohio National Farmers Dairy Reload

Corporation, and the Ohio Dairy Committee.

We appreciate this family very much for their leadership and participation in National Farmers, and want to thank Tom for making himself available to represent his family and National Farmers to receive the producer award from the Great Lakes Gulf Region,” said Gary Schmiesing, Great Lakes Gulf regional director.

Tom and Doris have four children, Ethan, Sam, Amanda and Beth. The family received the Collective Bargainer Award Jan. 31 in West Des Moines, Iowa, during the organization’s annual winter farm convention. The six regional directors for National Farmers’ service regions in the U.S. selected one producer who exemplifies success and quality on and dedication to agricultural operations.

National Farmers is a price negotiation and risk management organization for the nation’s farmers and ranchers.

Rock Out for Ovarian Cancer

Larry Selhorst and the Rock Out for Ovarian Cancer committee present a $4000 check to Marybeth Torsell of American Cancer Society. Pictured left to right are Brent Selhorst, Bradley Selhorst, Larry Selhorst, Marybeth Torsell, Andy Hrycko and Kory Hoffhines. Absent Mark Cavinder. Rock Out for Ovarian Cancer

On November 5, 2011, the annual Rock Out for Ovarian Cancer was held at Overdrive in Celina in order to bring ovarian cancer awareness to the forefront. Ovarian cancer is the ninth most common cancer in women (not counting skin cancer), ranking fifth as the cause of cancer death in women. Around two-thirds of women with ovarian cancer are 55 or older and it is slightly more common in white women than African-American women.

Because ovarian tumors are hard to find, it is recommended that women receive regular health exams. A woman should speak to her doctor about the need for further testing if a high risk of ovarian cancer (such as those with a strong family history of the disease) is present, or symptoms that can't be explained occur nearly every day for more than a few weeks.

All proceeds from the Rock Out for Ovarian Cancer benefit the American Cancer Society earmarked for ovarian cancer education and research. The event included casino games, 50/50 drawing, raffles and entertainment from the band NightFall.

The American Cancer Society combines an unyielding passion with nearly a century of experience to save lives and end suffering from cancer. We save lives by helping people stay well by preventing cancer or detecting it early; helping people get well by being there for them during and after a cancer diagnosis; by finding cures through investment in groundbreaking discovery; and by fighting back by rallying lawmakers to pass laws to defeat cancer and by rallying communities worldwide to join the fight.

For more information about the American Cancer Society, please call 800.227.2345 anytime, day or night, or visit cancer.org.

Grube/Fair Cases Updates

Detective Doug Timmerman has been assigned the lead on the Grube investigation and Detective Lance Crum is the lead on the Fair home invasion. Agents from the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation are assisting in both investigations and continue to actively work with Mercer County Detectives. Several items of evidence remain at the state crime labs on the Grube case and several items from the Fair case have been submitted.

In the Grube case it is evident that at least one male and female were present at the time. It is possible there were more. In the Fair case, according to witnesses, there were two males and one female. One male and one female wore masks over their faces while the second male did not. The composite of that male has been released to the news media. Witnesses also described the vehicle at the Fair crime scene as a Dark colored “boxy” SUV with loud exhaust.

The Sheriff’s Office has received nearly 100 tips in the past week. Citizens continue to call in suspicious activity and vehicles with that fit the description the vehicle described. “Citizens are doing their part to help us catch those responsible,” states Sheriff Grey.

A suspicious vehicle call on Saturday evening lead to an email being sent out that has some in the community alarmed. “People should not create emails based on speculation and forward it on, this only creates fear in the community and causes us to redirect our resources into explaining rumors,” stated Sheriff Grey. “When we have information that can help the public locate an offender or that the public needs to know to keep themselves safe, we will release the information through the news media, our Facebook page, and Nixle.”

The Saturday evening call started at 8:27 PM when the Sheriff’s Office received a call of a vehicle with loud exhaust on SR 119. There was no description of the vehicle, other than a loud exhaust and it had went through the area slowly multiple times. A deputy was dispatched to the area to attempt to locate the vehicle. At 9:03 PM another call came in the area of SR 119 and US 127. This call reported that a male was seen near a barn at a residence. The resident of the property stated that he was asked by the male to come over to him, but when the resident ask who he was there was no reply. The male simply said he just wanted to stay in the garage for a little bit. The resident did not see a vehicle but when he entered the house to call the Sheriff’s Office he heard a loud vehicle drive by. The male suspect was not seen after that.

“While incidents of this nature certainly heighten concern at this point, there is no indication that this is related to either the Grube case or the Fair case,” stated Sheriff Grey. “We encourage people to continue to contact the Sheriff’s Office or their local police department when they see or hear something suspicious, but we ask that people refrain from sending emails that will alarm an already concerned public. We will keep the public informed.”

Ohio Has Talent! Set for March 31

The benefit show for Community Health Professionals’ Van Wert Inpatient Hospice Center showcases 20 performing acts of singing, dancing and instrumental music. Audience votes will determine the winners.

Contestants from Mercer/Auglaize Counties include:

• Hannah Felver & Kate Fox - a duo of 12-year-olds from St. Marys and New Knoxville. Both girls have performed in several local productions and are involved with school and/or community music programs.

• Sam Gudorf - a graduate of Celina High School, Sam is a Childhood Education major at Wright State University Lake Campus. He has been involved with acting, singing and dancing since first grade.

• Men in a Boat - is a soft rock band from Celina consisting of John Townsend, Frank Townsend, Mitchell Hernandez and Ryan Gongaware.

• Riley Post - a 13-year-old, seventh grade student at St. Henry Middle School. Riley has won several local talent shows and most recently won first place in the Mercer County Has Talent show.

• Rachel Werling - a nine-year-old third grader at St. Henry Elementary. She has performed in several plays and has been in two talent competitions.

Bios and photos of all contestants are posted at the Ohio Has Talent Facebook page.

Tickets for the show are available for $10 to $25 through the NPAC ticket office, 419-238-6722, www.npacvw.org or at Community Health Professionals, 419-238-9223, www.ComHealthPro.org.

Road Closed

Contractor for this project: R.G. Zachrich Construction, Steve Laing (419) 576-6492.

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

New Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Center Opens

Mercer Health opened its new Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Center on February 29

An Open House was held prior to the opening of the new Mercer Health Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Center located at Mercer County Community Hospital, Coldwater. Over 100 attended the event.

The new center features nearly 1200 square feet of exercise space. Nancy Mescher, Cardiopulmonary Services Director, says, “This new area is nearly three times larger than our previous area, the original location since the program began in 2001. It also has floor to ceiling windows along the entire west wall that creates a much more open and uplifting feel.” There is now a private office for patient consultations and dedicated warm up and exercise areas which allows for a better patient flow throughout the space.

Due, in part, to contributions to the Medical, Educational, and Development (MED) Foundation’s campaign to raise money for new equipment, the Center has added a new six channel telemetry system and commercial grade exercise equipment that includes two treadmills, one recumbent bicycle, and one recumbent stepper. Mescher states, “The increase in monitoring capacity along with the increase in exercise equipment allows us to offer services for a larger number of participants.”

Mercer Health’s Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Program provides individuals with known heart and/or lung disease with an organized exercise program. Mescher explains, “Our program combines education, support, counseling, and risk factor reduction along with the exercise. The goal for each participant is to achieve and maintain a maximum level of health and independence, to control the impact of the patient’s disease, and to improve their overall quality of life.”

The program is designed to meet the individualized needs of each patient. The Cardiac Rehabilitation portion is beneficial to those who have experienced a recent heart attack, bypass surgery, heart valve repair or replacement, heart transplant, coronary angioplasty, coronary stenting, or who have been diagnosed with stable angina. Mescher adds, “A person needs a physician’s referral to participate in our program, but that physician does not need to be a member of our medical staff.”

Mescher states that the Pulmonary Rehabilitation portion of the program is beneficial to those who have been diagnosed with lung disease like COPD, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or pulmonary fibrosis.

Those wanting more information about the program should call 419-678-5180.

Persons wishing to make a contribution towards the purchase of the new equipment should call John Hoying, MED Foundation Development director, at 419-678-5679.

Students Teaching About Resistance

Keynote speaker, Ty Sells

S.T.A.R. (Students Teaching About Resistance) Sunday 2012 was held on Sunday, February 19th at Overdrive. 40 Mercer County 6th, 7th, and 8th graders attended the event. There were 10 adult helpers and 16 high school volunteers. The event started off with skits about alcohol/drugs and peer pressure, presented by the high school volunteers. Then, Keynote Speaker Ty Sells from Youth to Youth International did a presentation about how “cool” changes. Ty’s message also touched on the fact that you may not know what is happening in someone’s home life and that sometimes youth are looking for a reason to say ‘no’ to ATOD (Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs)—never assume that someone is not interested in learning about living ATOD free. Then, all students attended three classes and were mixed up with youth from other schools in an effort to help them make some contacts who share the same beliefs about drugs and alcohol as themselves. Each student attended either a class about bullying, friendships, or dating; a class about drug, alcohol, or tobacco facts, and a class about internet/texting, Google/Facebook, or role modeling. The high school students taught 4 of the 6 classes during the event, and adult volunteers taught the others. The youth participated in get-to-know-you activities and had free time to play the wide variety of games offered at Overdrive. They ate a catered supper and then participated in the closing ceremony. Youth were then invited to stay for the junior high fun night open to all Mercer County students. The students met new friends to support them in their decision to stay drug, alcohol, and tobacco free, and hopefully made memories that will last them a lifetime! S.T.A.R. has been taking place for over 20 years. However, there were no funds for the event the past two years and future S.T.A.R. programs depend on grants. This year’s event was sponsored by the Mercer County Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs (MCATOD) Coalition—the youth portion of this coalition. The money was made available by the Ohio Department of Drug and Alcohol Addiction Services, SPF (Strategic Prevention Framework) funding. The founding partners of the coalition are Gateway Outreach Center, Mercer County Community Hospital and Wright State University Lake Campus. Prevention Specialist, Laura Sanford, along with the rest of the Gateway Outreach Center staff thank all the adult and high school volunteers, junior high students who attended the program, those who helped promote the event to the students, Ivan Knapp for his news release, and Overdrive for their hospitality during the event.

The high school students who helped with S.T.A.R. are a part of a group that’s getting another kick-start this year. It’s called S.T.O.P. (Students Teaching Others Prevention). The next meeting is Monday, March 19th in the CAV room at Coldwater High School from 7-8 pm. It’s for all high school students who are holding true to their D.A.R.E. promise or want to be encouraged to “start over” with holding true to their D.A.R.E. promise. The group offers support, encouragement, and friends who come together to help each other stand strong in their belief to stay alcohol, drugs, and tobacco free. For questions, call Laura at Gateway Outreach Center, 419-586-4030.

High Schoolers prepping for one of their skits

Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) Garners Scholarship Donations

From left to right, Jane Stuckman, WOEF Board, Education Students: Heather Strause from Wapakoneta, Jessica Cornatzer from Kettlersville; Amber Hartke from Coldwater; Emily Gilbert from New Bremen; Barbara Murphy and Jane Long, Alpha Delta Kappa Sorority Trustees; Paula Bryan, Lake Campus Education Program Director; Betsy Crites, Lake Campus Hybrid Educator and Julie Miller, Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) Development Officer.

Celina, Ohio – The Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) is celebrating its 50th year of incorporation. Julie Miller, WOEF Development Officer acknowledges that, “it is by the generosity of all our scholarship contributors that the WOEF Board is able to offer scholarships to students in our area to help offset their college costs.” The foundation recently received a donation from the Alpha Delta Kappa (ADK), an international educator’s sorority. Alpha Omicron, the ADK Celina chapter, has donated $1,000 towards book scholarships to be awarded to five Lake Campus students majoring in Education.

In 1973, ADK gave out two book scholarships to Education students amounting to $37.50 each. Throughout the past 40 years, ADK has supported Wright State University-Lake Campus students through their continued donation of book scholarship awards to Lake Campus Education students.

The Scholarship has changed names several times over the last 40 years. For many years, it was known as the Carolyn Bair Scholarship to honor ADK’s President and long-time member who was also a retired local teacher. However, this will be the final donation from ADK as the Alpha Omicron Chapter is disbanding.

The Western Ohio Educational Foundation and the education students of the Lake Campus owe ADK and the Omicron chapter a debt of gratitude and appreciation for their many contributions over the years. They are to be commended for promoting education in our area.

To find out more about WOEF scholarship program, log onto www.wright.edu/lake/woef.html.

Parkway FFA Chapter Holds Annual FFA Week

The Sophomore class loading the truck during the food drive.

February 21st-25th, the Parkway FFA chapter held an FFA week. It was full of fun and excitement between the dress-up days, the petting zoo, can food drive and many other fun activities.

On Tuesday was cowboy/cowgirl dress up day. On this day students dressed up in their cowboy or cowgirl attire. Wednesday, was cameo/carhart day. Students dressed up in their cameo outfits or wore their carhart overalls and apparel to school. Thursday, was Duct tape day. This is when students make their entire outfits out of Duct tape! Friday students wore their FFA t-shirt in support of the chapter.

Throughout the week activities were held. On Thursday the chapter held a faculty breakfast where members made them omelets and students had a Luncheon. Also on Thursday, a petting zoo was held for the elementary students. This year it included a horse, donkeys, rabbits, ducks, a pig, a cow, and a rooster.

The FFA chapter would like to thank everyone for making the can food drive a success and for participating in FFA week.

SUSPECT

A witness has come forward and worked with detectives and BCI&I agents to develop a composite drawing of one of the suspects. The attached is the composite. Hair is described as reddish blonde and the suspect is stocky and shorter than 5’07. Witness believes that he is in approximately 30 years old.

“There are many similarities to the two cases, but we have not made a connection at this point,” states Sheriff Grey. Detective Lance Crum has been assigned to be the lead investigator on the Fair case while Detective Doug Timmerman continues to investigate the Grube case. Detective Megan Baker and Ohio BCI&I agents will assist in both investigations as needed. Lt. Martin Emerine has been reassigned from the patrol division to the detective bureau to follow up on other cases that need investigative attention.

Mercer County Residents are urged to be alert, watch your neighbors’ property and report suspicious activity. Suspicious activity should be reported to the Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Number, 419-586-7724. Anonymous tips may be left on the sheriff’s office website at www.mercercountysheriff.org. or by calling the tip line at 567-890-TIPS (8477).

Indiana Man Charged In The Death Of Auglaize County Man

The investigation into the cause of the fire involved the Sheriff’s Office, Ohio State Fire Marshal, and the Grand Lake Drug Task Force. Based upon information developed and evidence collected at the scene, a suspect has been charged in the death of Mr. Aldrich. 52 year old Robby B. Barnett of Peru, Indiana has been indicted by the Auglaize County Grand Jury on one count of Involuntary Manslaughter a felony of the first degree, one count of the Illegal Manufacture of Drugs a felony of the second degree, and one count of the Illegal Assembly or Possession of Chemicals for the Manufacture of Drugs a felony of the third degree. Mr. Barnett is currently in custody at the Auglaize County Corrections Center.

Fish Consumption Advisory Updated for 2012

This year’s fish consumption advisory contains updates to 15 locations based on detections from samples that were taken from 14 lakes and reservoirs and 18 streams in 2010.

Ohio EPA also did microcystin sampling in Grand Lake and Lake Erie during the 2011 season to determine if fish were affected by algal toxin. All samples taken in Lake Erie in November 2010, June 2011 and August 2011, testing yellow perch and walleye showed no detections. Grand Lake samples were also taken in November, June and August, and only the June sample set showed a detection level, only in Black Crappie. To round out the limited data available, Ohio EPA plans to continue sampling, and will evaluate and post updates as they become available.

All Ohio fish advisories can be found on Ohio EPA’s website at http://www.epa.ohio.gov/dsw/fishadvisory/index.aspx> or call (614) 644-2160 to request a copy. Fish consumption advisory contact information will be provided to anglers in the Ohio Fishing Regulations booklet with fishing license purchase beginning on March 1, 2012.

More detailed information about fish consumption can be found at Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) Centers, local health departments, Ohio Department of Natural Resources district offices and Ohio EPA offices.

Ohio EPA partners with the Ohio Department of Health and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to develop consumption advisories for fish caught in Ohio. Fish consumption advisories are updated annually based on processed samples collected during the previous fishing season.

For the latest advisory, Ohio EPA and ODNR evaluated 460 samples. The information helps Ohio’s fishing community make informed decisions about consuming their catch. To learn more about fishing and shellfish purchased outside of Ohio, please visit the federal government website: http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~frf/sea-mehg.html>.

A statewide advisory of one fish meal per week continues for all fish not otherwise mentioned due to mercury found in state fish tissue samples. Mercury poses the greatest health risk for women of child-bearing age, pregnant and nursing mothers and children under 15. Fish contaminated with high levels of mercury have been shown to cause neurological damage and impaired development of young children.

JTDMH Auxiliary gifts $20,000 for Patient Safety

Pictured seated: Becky Huston Auxiliary treasurer presenting check to Karen Ryals, Executive Director of JTD Hospital Foundation. Front Row L to R: Kay Ramga, Cheryl Kline, Auxiliary secretary; Edith Wissman, Auxiliary Co-president, Charlene Dille, Carolynn Sidey, Auxiliary Co-president. Back Row L to R: Christy Wibbeler, Joann Hegemier, JTDMH Volunteer Coordinator, Colette Dugan, Gift Shop Treasurer.

For over fifty nine years, the Joint Township District Memorial Hospital Auxiliary has been supporting the Hospital through volunteer and fundraising efforts. Even before the Hospital opened in 1953, they were fundraising to support the new Hospital. With over a 100 current members, it remains active and dedicated to supporting patient care with their contributions. The Auxiliary has donated over $564,870 to benefit patient care since their efforts began.

This week the Auxiliary announced its plans to donate $20,000.00 to the Hospital for the purchase of bedside medication barcode technology. Patient Safety will be greatly enhanced during the medication administration process during a hospital stay. This generous donation will positively impact many patients and the nurses caring for them.

The money for this contribution has been raised through proceeds from the Gift Shop, Book Fair, Bake Sale, Mum Sales, and Jewelry Sale, to name a few.

Joint Township District Memorial Hospital wishes to thank the Auxiliary for their generous and continuous commitment to the hospital’s mission impacting the healthcare of our community. Over the years, almost every area of the hospital has been touched by the support of the Auxiliary—and our patients are the beneficiaries of their devotion.

Please call Joan Hegemier at 419-3535 ext 3523 if you are interested in joining the Auxiliary or volunteering in the gift shop or another area at Joint Township Hospital

Midwest Electric awards $5,500 in scholarships to seven local youth

Kahlig and Goettemoeller

February 29, 2012 - Ft. Recovery High School’s Julie Kahlig and Coldwater High School’s Travis Goettemoeller captured top honors in the 2012 Midwest Electric scholarship competition, featuring judges from Wright State University-Lake Campus and Midwest Electric.

The two seniors each receive a $1,000 scholarship and will represent Midwest Electric in the Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives statewide scholarship competition, April 9 in Columbus.

Miller and Hess

Second place $750 scholarships were awarded to Rachel Miller, Parkway High School, and Aaron Hess, Coldwater High School. Receiving third place $500 scholarship awards were Abbey Rieman, Bluffton High School and Trevor Rindler, Coldwater High School.

Additionally, Lauren Goettemoeller, St. Henry High School, won the $1,000 Touchstone Energy Achievement Scholarship, which is awarded to a student who has overcome a significant challenge in pursuit of their goals. Lauren, the daughter of Fred and Deb Goettemoeller, plans to attend the University of Cincinnati and study biomedical science.

The six general scholarship winners were selected from a field of 45 area high school seniors, with a 3.5 or higher grade point average, whose parents are Midwest Electric members.

Kahlig has a 3.983 grade point average and is ranked eighth in her class. She is planning to study accounting at Ball State University. Julie is the daughter of Donald and Linda Kahlig, Ft. Recovery.

Travis Goettemoeller is the son of Richard and Doris Goettemoeller, Coldwater. He has a 4.33 grade point average, is first in his class and is planning to study bio-engineering.

Miller will major in physical therapy at Baldwin-Wallace College. She has a 3.952 grade point average and is ranked eighth in her class. Her parents are Sally and Mark Cox, Willshire.

Hess will major in Catholic studies at Marian University. He has a 4.33 grade point average, is ranked third in his class and is the son of Gary and Marjorie Hess.

Rieman will study pharmacy at Ohio Northern University or The University of Findlay. She has a 4.0 grade point average and is ranked first in her class. She is the daughter of Robert and Louise Rieman, Bluffton.

Rindler will study chemistry in college. He has a 4.23 grade point average, is ranked sixth in his class, and is the son of Dan and Nancy Rindler, Coldwater.

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.

Grube Murder Update

After midnight on Saturday, a man knocked on the door of a Dutton Road home near Mendon, according to Sheriff officials. A woman resident answered the door, and two men and one woman forced their way inside.

One of the men had a handgun and threatened to kill the female’s father, according to officials.

The suspects attempted to tie up the father,William Fair, 79, and his daughter, Kathy Fair, 47, with duct tape. Both suffered minor injuries in the struggle.

The three suspects left in a dark colored SUV with a loud exhaust.

Police are treating the case as if it is connected to the Grube double homicide in Fort Recovery last November.

Sheriff Jeff Grey's Press Conference Notes

PRESS CONFERENCE February 27, 2012

FAIR / GRUBE CASES
I.	Thanks for patience as we investigate the Grube Homicides

II.	Home invasion Saturday morning shortly after midnight
a.	12617 Dutton Road, just north of SR 11 /north of Mendon
b.	Victims:Kathy Fair age 47 William Fair age 79

III.	Suspects knocked on door
a.	Kathy answered 
b.	Short (smaller than 5’07) stocky male with reddish 
blonde hair at door – younger than 40
c.	Saw someone with ski mask on behind him tried to 
shut door
d.	Forced their way in
e.	Had a handgun threatened to kill William if they 
didn’t tell them where money was
f.	Second male with ski mask
i.	Taller than 5’07
ii.	Ski mask, but could see something shiny through 
it near the mouth/nose area, possibly a piercing
g.	Heard a loud vehicle pull into the driveway
i.	A female very short ( a lot shorter than 5’07) 
and skinny wearing a ski mask entered the home
ii.	Knew it was a female because of voice

IV.	Struggle
a.	Both victims had minor scrapes and cuts on 
arms/wrists from struggling with the intruders
b.	No serious injury

V.	Intruders left residence
a.	Southbound on Dutton road
b.	Appeared to be a dark colored SUV with 
loud exhaust.  SUV was a “boxy” type vehicle

VI.	Similarities to Grube case
a.	Father / Daughter victims, similar in age
b.	Have a report of a similar vehicle in area 
of Grube homicide
c.	Had duct tape and reportedly tried to 
bind them, but was not successful
d.	Male & female suspects
e.	WE DO NOT KNOW IF THEY ARE CONNECTED OR NOT, 
JUST HAVE SIMILARITIES

VII.	Grube case update
a.	76 subpoenas
b.	12 search warrants
c.	80 tips to date
d.	208 interviews
e.	Traveled to 8 Ohio Counties to follow up 
leads, some multiple times
f.	Traveled to 4 Indiana Counties to follow up 
leads, some multiple times

VIII.	Still need the public’s help
a.	Leave a tip on our website, 
www.mercercountysheriff.org
b.	Leave a tip on our tip line, (567)890-TIPS  (8477)

Coldwater School Expulsion Hearing Turns Violent

The 15 year old Coldwater male was attending an expulsion hearing in the administration building and in the course of the meeting he became enraged and began to destroy property in the superintendent’s office before walking out of the building. Due to the violent behavior and threats that had been made, the school was placed under a lockdown temporarily while the student was located.

The juvenile male was incarcerated at the West Central Juvenile Detention Center and charged with Inducing Panic and Criminal Damaging. He will be brought back to Mercer County Juvenile Court on Thursday March 1, 2012 at 10:45AM.

New Chamber Member

Jonathon Reese has joined the Celina Mercer Co. Chamber of Commerce. Jonathon is a realtor with Coldwell Banker Lakeshore in Celina. Visit www.jonathonreese.com. Pictured with Jonathon is Chamber Director, Pam Buschur

New Center Receives Contribution

George Brooks, First Financial Bank Regional President, (right) presents a check to Nancy Mescher, Cardiopulmonary Services Director, in support of Mercer Health’s Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Center campaign now underway to raise funds toward the purchase of new equipment that will be installed in the new area. Also pictured is Kent Phares, President of the Medical, Educational, and Development (MED) Foundation.

At the presentation, Brooks said, “We are pleased to make this donation to the MED Foundation in support of their Cardiopulmonary Rehab Campaign. Advancing health care is an important component of economic development which aligns well with the bank’s strategy for targeted giving.”

MED Foundation Development Director John Hoying said, “We are very grateful to First Financial Bank. Their contribution towards equipment for our new Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Facility is a great show of support for the community.”

The new unit will open on February 29, 2012. A Public Open House is planned for Tuesday, February 28, from 6 to 8 PM.

Grube Murder Updates

This will be to give a brief update on the Grube Homicide and to inform you of a reported home invasion that occurred over the weekend that may or may not be connected.

City of Celina Appoints New Downtown Manager

Mayor Jeffrey Hazel has appointed Dave Smith as the City’s new Downtown Manager who will help facilitate the Tier II Downtown Revitalization Project with Grant Administrator Jerry Lacy and Celina Officials. 2012 is the final year for the Tier II Downtown Revitalization Project.

Dave Smith is a long-time Downtown Business Owner/Operator who has a direct vested interest in promoting and advancing Celina’s Downtown business interests. His primary objectives include being a liaison between the Downtown Business owners and City officials, working closely with the Chamber and Downtown Merchants to create and promote new programs and events, and to meet with individual owners to discuss their concerns.

Dave is the Owner and operator of Deluxe Dry Cleaners, located on South Main Street in Celina. He can be reached by phone at (419) 305-3048 or by email at DowntownManager@CelinaOhio.org.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Teams Up With Preferred Insurance Center In Fund Raising Fun

Big Brothers Big Sisters is teaming up with Preferred Insurance Center for several fund raisers.  We hope this will be both extremely helpful to the people we serve, and a lot of fun for everyone involved. First, you may have noticed the pink flamingos in some local yards.  If they end up in your yard, just call Preferred Insurance and for a $15 donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters they will send trained technicians to remove the lovely birds.  For $5 more, you can direct the flamingos to their next home!  If you’d like to really spruce up a friends yard, for $3 per bird we’ll add as many flamingos as you want.  Lastly, if you haven’t been “flocked” but you know someone who should be, give Preferred Insurance a call and for a small donation, we’ll take care of that too. In addition, for every quote Preferred Insurance gives, they are donating $10 to the caller’s choice of 6 charities, and of course we would like you to choose Big Brothers Big Sisters.  When you get the quote you will also receive a free “Flamingo Insurance Policy”, so you don’t have to worry about the flamingos landing in your yard.  Of course you can also get the “Flamingo Insurance Policy” by calling Preferred Insurance and simply donating $10 to Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mercer, Auglaize and Van Wert counties has many programs that benefit the children of our area.  Their One-on-One program is where adult volunteers are matched with a child age 5-15.  The match then commits to see each other 2-3 times a month where they are allowed to go places in the community or even to each other’s homes.  Another program is their School Buddies Program where elementary students are matched with high school students.  They meet weekly for an hour and a half where they do educating and fun activities.  The Supper Club with The Marsh Foundation is a program where students from The Marsh Foundation with little or no family involvement are matched with adults in the community.  The group meets twice a month for supper and activities.  The volunteers also see their buddy one other time during the month on a weekend day.  The last program they have is Amachi Ohio for children who have an incarcerated parent.  They are paired with an approved adult volunteer mentor in the community.  Together, volunteers and their “littles” spend time developing friendships and participate in activities leading to positive outcomes.  Big Brothers Big Sisters is working to provide children with positive role models so they can overcome adversity and succeed in life.

Boy Scouts of Troop 69 Give Back - Preparing Other Boys for Leadership

In 2011, fundraising efforts were supported by the community and Boy Scout Troop 69 sponsored four local scouts to attend a six-day National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) program. Boy Scouts Andy Ewing, Austin Prenger and Zach Wurster who attended the course in June 2011 are giving back to the NYLT Program by volunteering to return this year as NYLT Camp Leaders. As volunteers, these scouts have committed to the six months of organizational planning meetings and camps in Findlay, OH in preparation for the June 6-12, 2012 course.

The weeklong council-level program covers skills instructed in professional leadership courses and is taught by scouts with adult supervision. Locally NYLT is sponsored annually by the Black Swamp Area Council in June of each year at Camp Berry, Findlay, OH. Boy Scout Troop 69 has been raising funds for the past two years to send members from their troop to this exciting, action-packed program. Ewing, Prenger and Wurster developed leadership skills and experience they are using in their home troop and in other situations demanding leadership of self and others. They will be mentoring participants on learning how to establish visions, goals and plans; make ethical choices; value people; communicate and teach effectively, resolve conflict; and assess progress.

The NYLT course centers around the concepts of what a leader must BE, what he must KNOW, and what he must DO. The key elements are then taught with a clear focus on HOW TO. The skills come alive during the week as the patrol goes on a Quest for the Meaning of Leadership. Upon course completion the scouts are able to use what they have learned in everyday life, at school, at home, in scouting, and in their future.

In efforts to continue sending scouts to NYLT, Boy Scout Troop 69 will be holding a Pork Chop/Chicken Dinner on March 11, 2012 with all proceeds going to support the troops National Youth Leadership Training Fund. Tickets are $7.00 for a chicken dinner and $8.00 for a pork chop dinner, pick up only at Knights of Columbus Hall, 129 N. Vine St., Celina from 11:30am-2:00pm. Advance ticket sales only. Ticket information; please contact Scoutmaster Jerry Braun, 419-584-0046, E-mail BoyScoutTroop69@roadrunner.com or from any Boy Scout of Troop 69.

Marion Local Awards Chapter FFA Degrees

Front Row, sitting, (L-R) Ashley Wilker, Tim Droesch, Kristen Hemmelgarn, Molly Hardesty, and Michelle Schwieterman Middle Row (L-R) Matt Bertke, Tyler Fleck, Brooke Smith, Rose Homan, Madison Chrisman, Abby Fleck, Elizabeth Rutschilling, Jo Hartings, and Lizzy Wuebker Back Row (L-R) Dustin Meyer, Ross Reichert, Carmen Meyer, Conner Unrast, Kevin Miller, Sam Poeppelman, David Evers, Josh Keller, and Dustin Grieshop.

At the January FFA meeting 23 Marion Local FFA members received their chapter degree. The Chapter Degree is the highest degree a local chapter can bestow upon its members. To receive your chapter degree you have to meet the following requirements: must have your Greenhand degree, must have completed at least one semester of instruction in agricultural education, have in operation an approved supervised agricultural experience program; and be regularly enrolled in an agricultural education class, Have satisfactory knowledge of the local constitution and the local program of activities, have earned $150.00 by the members own efforts, worked 50 hours in a supervised agricultural experience other than class time; demonstrate 5 parliamentary procedure abilities, maintain a satisfactory scholastic record in the agricultural course, submit a written application, lead a group discussion for 15 minutes, participated in 3 official functions in the FFA. Members who were present to receive their chapter degree are pictured.

Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) Garners Scholarship Donations

From left to right, Michael Monnier, Osgood State Bank President and Julie Miller, WOEF Development Officer.

Celina, Ohio – The Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) is celebrating its 50th year of incorporation. Julie Miller, WOEF Development Officer acknowledges that, “it is by the generosity of all our scholarship contributors that the WOEF Board is able to offer scholarships to students in our area to help offset their college costs.” The foundation recently received a donation from The Osgood State Bank for the Academic Excellence Scholarship Fund.

Osgood State Bank President, Michael Monnier is pictured presenting the $500 check to Miller for the 2012-2013 Academic Excellence Scholarship fund. A four county region is served by WSU-Lake Campus including Auglaize, Darke, Mercer, and Van Wert County. Students from 22 area high schools may participate in this competitive academic award program.

Osgood State Bank has been a loyal supporter of Wright State University-Lake Campus through their scholarship donations as well as supporting the capital campaign for facilities renovation. The firm supports continuing education for their employees by offering tuition reimbursement benefits resulting in an increase in the area’s skilled workforce.

Since 1995, WOEF has awarded $1,000 to 117 recipients of this scholarship, $2,000 to 47 recipients, and $3,000 to 209 recipients. The Academic Excellence Scholarship guidelines are based upon GPA and class ranking.

Information on this year’s scholarship award recipients will be posted at www.wright.edu/lake/woef.html as it becomes available.

Marion Local FFA Members Advance in Public Speaking

Pictured (left to right)- Marion Local FFA Members Tim Droesch, Kristen Hemmelgarn, and Heather Mescher

Recently, three members of the Marion Local FFA competed in the Public Speaking Career Development Event. The purpose of this contest is to help students gain experience in public speaking as well as develop that art that it take address a group of people in a professional manner. Heather Mescher competed in the creed speaking contest. She placed first and received a gold rating on her ability to recite the creed and answer a series of questions about it. Kristen Hemmelgarn competed in the prepared contest. She wrote and delivered a speech on the new child labor laws. Her speech had to be six to eight minutes in length and she also had to answer questions on it. She placed first and received a gold rating as well. Finally, Tim Droesch competed in the extemporaneous contest. In this contest, contestants draw a topic and have thirty minutes to prepare a four to six minute speech about the topic and answer questions. Tim placed second and received a gold rating. All three speakers earned the right to advance to the district contest which will take place this week. Students had to place in the top two to be able to advance.

Grand Lake Hospice offers Pet Therapy

Pet Therapy is a volunteer program that allows an animal to go into a patient’s home to visit. Grand Lake Hospice now offers pet therapy to its patients. Hospice patients receive the extra attention that only a pet can provide. Studies have shown that pets are able to bring down a patient’s anxiety and restlessness.

St. Marys resident Pam Prater grew up in a home with dogs and wanted to enhance the lives of the residents that she saw each and every day while working at an area nursing home. Pam and her husband Bob agreed to take on the responsibility of a dog and Sadie was welcomed to the family. Initially it was not her intent to certify Sadie as a therapy dog. She enrolled Sadie in classes for obedience training and heard stories of how therapy dogs impacted people and improved their quality of life. Pam also noticed that Sadie had a unique sense of human nature as she was especially attentive to those residents who were seriously ill. Pam then decided to pursue Therapy Dog Certification. It took several months and a somewhat difficult test procedure but Sadie passed with flying colors and Sadie began her career at Valley-Golden Living Center.

Several months later, Pam talked to Linda Haines, Director of Grand Lake Home Health and Hospice about the possibility of getting involved with Hospice volunteering. Linda encouraged Pam to call the volunteer coordinator and go through the process of getting on board as volunteers. As volunteers, Pam and Sadie have done several visits and the impact has been awesome. Sadie has yet to meet a stranger and she loves to snuggle on a lap once she greets new people.

For more information about Grand Lake Hospice and its pet therapy program, please contact Julie Jacobs, Volunteer Coordinator at 419-394-3335, ext. 2808.

Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) Garners Scholarship Donations

From left to right, Tom and Pam Pottkotter, Julie Miller, WOEF Development Officer, and Sandy Gilbert, WOEF Scholarship Coordinator.

From left to right, George Brooks, First Financial Bank Regional President, Julie Miller, WOEF Development Officer, and Howard Stammen, Senior Commercial Relationship Manager

Celina, Ohio – The Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) is celebrating its 50th year of incorporation. Julie Miller, WOEF Development Officer acknowledges that, “it is by the generosity of all our scholarship contributors that the WOEF Board is able to offer scholarships to students in our area to help offset their college costs.” The foundation recently received donations from Tom and Pam Pottkotter and from representatives of First Financial Bank.

Tom and Pam Pottkotter, retired Coldwater school teachers and Wright State University-Lake Campus alumni are pictured presenting their $500 check to the 2011-2012 Academic Excellence Scholarship fund. The Pottkotters stated, “We are really glad for the opportunities WOEF gives local students. We enjoy seeing how much the campus has changed.” The Academic Excellence Scholarship Fund was established in 1995 for 22 local high schools throughout Auglaize, Darke, Mercer and Van Wert Counties.

George Brooks, First Financial Bank Regional President and Howard Stammen, Senior Commercial Relationship Manager are pictured presenting a present a check for $1,000 to Julie Miller, WOEF Development Officer to help support the Academic Excellence Scholarship Fund at Wright State Lake Campus,. Brooks commented, “We are pleased to continue our support for the WOEF Scholarship program. Advancing local financial literacy and education aligns well with the bank’s strategy for targeted giving.” Since 1995, WOEF has awarded $1,000 to 117 recipients of this scholarship, $2,000 to 47 recipients, and $3,000 to 209 recipients. The Academic Excellence Scholarship guidelines are based upon GPA and class ranking.

There is still time before the February 15 deadline for current and incoming Lake Campus students to complete a scholarship application. Please go to www.wright.edu/lake/woef.html for information on available awards application guidelines.

Coldwater Drug Arrest

Officers were called to 123 E. Walnut Street on the report of a dispute. Upon arrival officers spoke with the parties involved. While investigating the incident officers located two pipes in the residence, commonly associated with drug abuse, which had burnt residue in them. The pipes had an odor of burnt marijuana coming from them.

Officers asked Gann if there were any drug items in her vehicle as well. Christina Gann gave officers permission to search her vehicle and they located a marijuana cigarette in the vehicle.

Both subjects were warned for disorderly conduct for the dispute and cited for the drug offenses into Coldwater Mayor’s Court and released.

Ft. Recovery FFA Holds “Canning Hunger Campaign”

Pictured L-R are sophomore members who helped with the Canning Hunger Campaign that collected 2,452 cans. Jenna Lennartz, Becky Brockman, Nikki Nietfeld, Sam Florence, Deanna Crouch, Katie Fortkamp, Nick Rammel, Courtney Gladdish, Mitch Lennartz, Kaleb Timmerman, Mikie Joash, Alex Stammen, Cedric Lamons, Reece Grieshop, Cody Wehnes, Grant Muhlenkamp.

Ft. Recovery, OH – The Ft. Recovery FFA Chapter recently held a canned food drive with the entire high school student body and staff called the “Canning Hunger Campaign.” Classes competed to see who could bring in the most cans. A total of 2,452 canned good and non-perishable items where collected. Congratulations to Mrs. Schade-Hein’s class for winning the competition by collecting 67.5 cans per person. The food was delivered to local food banks to help needy families in the Mercer County area. The Ft. Recovery FFA Chapter would like to thank entire high school student body, the staff, and the sophomore FFA members for coordinating this great activity.

Ft. Recovery FFA Awards Greenhand FFA Degrees

Pictured here are first year members of the Fort Recovery FFA Chapter.

FT. RECOVERY, OHIO – Recently, the Ft. Recovery FFA Chapter held its Greenhand FFA Degree Ceremony. The Greenhand FFA Degree was awarded to 27 first-year members enrolled in an Agriscience class. The Greenhand FFA Degree is the 1st degree that an FFA member can receive and requires members to demonstrate knowledge of FFA history, the FFA Creed, FFA motto, as well as have satisfactory plans for a Supervised Agricultural Experience Program. This year’s recipients include freshmen Katie Braun, David Dirksen, Jesse Faller, Cody Fields, Jason Hein, Jamieson Hess, Sam Huelskamp, Austin Kahlig, Tony Keller, Eli Koester, Debra Link, Neil Link, Nick Link, Bryce McAbee, Ryan Muhlenkamp, Dustin Overman, Diane Post, George Roessner, Bryan Schoenlein, Ray Siefring, Devon Stephens, Andrew Sudhoff, Abby Timmerman, Amy Timmerman, Chad Tobe, and Zachary Tobe. All degree recipients were awarded their bronze Greenhand FFA pin to wear on their FFA jackets. The members will also be recognized at the annual FFA banquet in April. The Ft. Recovery FFA Chapter would like to congratulate this year’s Greenhands and encourage them to continue to succeed as FFA members.

Do Not Overlook Importance of Vocational Education

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy

Each day thousands of skilled jobs go unfilled in this state. Business cannot find people that can weld and machine products in their workshops. Unfortunately, there is a popular mindset in this country that a college degree will automatically equate into a viable employment opportunity. This, frankly, is not the case. The promotion of trade and vocational education will result in more young people being employed.

Ohio’s economy is growing. Jobs are coming back to the state—and many of these jobs are well paying manufacturing jobs. As we continue to make Ohio a business friendly environment you will see more industry want to call our state home. We must have an able workforce that is prepared to meet these job demands. Similarly, our schools must be prepared to educate and train students for these jobs.

Vocational and technical schools, as well as community colleges, are wonderful options for some students because they provide opportunities for people to pursue their focused interests. This allows individuals to earn a degree in a shorter period of time, allowing them to enter the job market with a valuable education relevant to the field they are pursuing.

We are blessed in west central Ohio to have fantastic career technical schools, but we need to encourage vo-ag programs and other technical classes to be offered in our schools that will enable students to acquire skills, but remain in their home school for their core curriculum.

Cleveland Public Schools has over 10 high school buildings, but just one vocational school. The young people need the opportunity to use their hands as they prepare for the work force. The current situation is not serving our young people.

The types of jobs we need to prepare young people for are changing. That is why enterprise needs to partner with the schools, to ensure that the training programs are proactive in improving technology. I applaud Governor Kasich’s forward thinking on this subject and his commitment to advocating for vocational education. He made it a point in the State of the State Address to mention the importance of getting kids and adults alike trained quickly so they can get the jobs that are available.

Ohio House Agrees with Senate Amendments on Legislation to Classify Algae Farming as Agriculture

House Bill 276, which was jointly sponsored by Buchy and Gentile, clarifies the definition of agriculture as it pertains to Ohio zoning laws for on-farm energy production facilities, such as on-farm anaerobic digesters—a change that will enable farmers to use byproducts for bio-energy production without cumbersome regulations that currently deter this environmentally friendly activity.

The bill also defines algaculture—the farming of algae—in the Ohio Revised Code, clarifying it as an agricultural process under Ohio law.

“The combination of on-farm energy production and algaculture will reduce nutrient run-off from our farms,” Buchy said. “Using the products we have available at our farms will solve problems that occur when there is a shortage of storage for farm byproducts, hence assisting farmers with manure management programs.”

Among the amendments included by the Ohio Senate is the creation of a legislative task force to study the use and impact of anaerobic digesters, including how they are regulated in other states, their environmental impact, and how state laws governing them affect agriculture, residents and local government.

“The creation of an anaerobic digester task force will allow policy makers to continue shaping a public policy to benefit farming opportunities that help the environment,” Gentile said. “The potential for the expansion of the digester industry and algae industry in this state is expansive. This is about jobs, and the outcome of these policy changes will result in more jobs for this state.”

Algae thrive off phosphorous and other minerals along with heat. These components will all be available on farms as a result of evolving technology. When harvested from controlled and natural water sources algae can be turned into fuels, plastics, pharmaceuticals and many other products.

House Bill 276 will allow farmers to use anaerobic digesters as a part of a nutrient management plan or to consume any other agricultural organic byproduct. Up to 50 percent of the feedstock for the digester may originate from off-farm production processes. The advancements of algaculture and anaerobic digesters are expected to aid in the cleanup of Ohio water and protect natural habitats by aiding in the removal of phosphorous and other nutrients.

“With these changes to the Ohio Revised Code, farmers throughout Ohio will be able to expand their businesses to the new frontiers of agriculture,” Buchy said. “It will also significantly aid our communities in keeping unwanted nutrients out of Grand Lake St. Marys.”

Celina Police Department Receives $10,000 Grant

An ordinance authorizing the acceptance of the award will be brought to Celina City Council at the next regularly scheduled meeting.

Flocking a Friend for Fun-ds

The Red Cross of Mercer County is teaming up with Preferred Insurance Center for several fund raisers. Hopefully this venture will be both extremely helpful to the people we serve, and a lot of fun for everyone involved.

You may have noticed the pink flamingos in some local yards. If they end up in your yard, just call Preferred Insurance and for a $15 donation to the American Red Cross of Mercer County they will send trained technicians to remove the lovely birds. For an additional $5, you can direct the flamingos to their next home! If you’d like to really spruce up a friends yard, for $3 per bird we’ll add as many flamingos as you want. If you haven’t been “flocked” but you know someone who should be, give Preferred Insurance a call and for a small donation, we’ll take care of that too.

In addition, for every quote Preferred Insurance gives the will donate $10 to the caller’s choice of 6 charities, and of course we would like you to choose the Red Cross. When you get the quote you will also receive a free “Flamingo Insurance Policy”, so you don’t have to worry about the flamingos landing in your yard. Of course you can also get the “Flamingo Insurance Policy” by calling Preferred Insurance and simply donating $10 to the Red Cross of Mercer County.

“Preferred Insurance Center has been looking for a fun way to involve the community in a fundraiser to support our local organizations like the Red Cross, when we came across the Flock-a-Friend” stated Dan Muhlenkamp of Preferred Insurance Center in Coldwater. “Knowing that our communities in Mercer County love to have fun, we thought this is it! People can have fun while raising money for a great organization.”

Funds raised from the event will directly support the Red Cross which shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. The American Red Cross firmly believes in donor designation. Donors can specify where they would prefer their donation is to be directed by simply stating their wishes with their donation. Proceeds from the Flock-a-Friend Fundraiser are 100% tax deductible and will remain in Mercer County so the Red Cross may continue providing the many services that our friends and families in our area have come to rely on when they need it the most!

Anyone interested in additional information about the Flock-a-Friend or to request a “landing”, please contact Preferred Insurance at 877-415-8342- or visit www.preferredcenter.com or by contacting the Red Cross of Mercer County at 419-586-2201 or by visiting www.mercercountyredcross.org .

New Chamber Member

Pictured from left to right: Lana Joseph, Business Manager Michelle Salazar, Clinical Director Brian Engle, Executive Director Pam Buschur, Chamber Director

Foundations Behavioral Health Services Inc. has joined the Celina Mercer Co. Chamber. They are located at 4761 St Rt 29 west of Celina. Foundations Behavioral Health Services is a community-based behavioral health center serving Mercer and Auglaize Counties and surrounding areas. Established in 1975, they have been providing professional counseling and support services to local residents for 35 years. Phone: 419-584-1000

Apparent Suicide In Mercer County

At 10:03 AM today Mercer County Deputies were dispatched to Township Line Rd., north of U.S. 33 in reference to a 911 call received by Van Wert County authorities. Van Wert County Sheriff’s Office contacted Mercer County Dispatch after receiving a call from an individual who advised he had just shot himself. Upon deputies arrival they found Michael L. Moulton, age 51, of 9953 Township Line Rd., Rockford, inside his vehicle, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest.

A firearm and shell casing was recovered inside the vehicle. Mr. Moulton was transported to the Van Wert County hospital by Rockford Squad #4, who was assisted by a medic from the Celina Fire Department. He was later transferred to Parkview Hospital in Ft. Wayne, where he passed away from his injuries at 12:10 PM.

The incident remains under investigation.

Mercer Health Foundation Awards “Friend of the Year”

Coldwater Machine, Inc., received the MED Foundation “Outstanding Friend” Award at the annual Friends of the MED Foundation dinner held recently at the Galleria, Celina. Presenting Jerry Meyer (center), President of Coldwater Machine, with the award are MED Foundation President Kent Phares (left) and MED Foundation Development Director John Hoying.

The Medical, Educational, and Development (MED) Foundation of Mercer Health awarded its third annual “Outstanding Friend” award to Coldwater Machine Incorporated at a special dinner held recently at the Galleria in Celina.

The awards presentation was part of the Friends of the MED Foundation third annual dinner that featured Ellen Bryan, reigning Miss Ohio, as the guest speaker. Also featured were MED Foundation President Kent Phares, Mercer Health Chief Executive Officer Paula Detterman, and Foundation Board Vice President Tara Sibert. Foundation Development Director John Hoying presented the award to Coldwater Machine President Jerry Meyer.

Upon accepting the award, Meyer acknowledged the value he placed on the hospital and why he believed in supporting the 2009 Capital Campaign the MED Foundation created for Mercer Health. To date, the campaign has received donations totaling $185,000 from local businesses and individuals.

During the awards presentation, Hoying stated, “Coldwater Machine was one of the early donors who believed in our mission to support Mercer Health with this Capital Campaign. The campaign was created to help pay some of the cost associated with the purchase of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) equipment.”

Featured speaker Ellen Bryan shared some of her experiences during her journey to become Miss Ohio and during the Miss USA competition. She talked about her goals in life and how being Miss Ohio has helped her understand how following a dream can succeed in helping others.

Mercer Health CEO Paula Detterman informed those in attendance about a number of activities completed during 2011 and shared some of the planned events that will happen in 2012. She touched on the successful completion of The Joint Commission survey and the Ohio Department of Health inspection. She also pointed out that Mercer Health has recently installed a new state of the art CT Scanner and has acquired a new C-Arm for the Surgery Department. Other significant events in 2011 were the opening of a Weight Management Program that includes lab band surgery, addition of new physicians, and new members of the management team. She also pointed out that 2012 looks to be another very busy year.

Other speakers for the evening included MED Foundation President Kent Phares and MED Foundation Development Director John Hoying. The emcee for the evening was MED Foundation Vice President Tara Sibert.

The Friends of the MED Foundation began in January, 2009, as a means to support Mercer Health in their mission to improve health services in the Mercer County area. Membership is open to everyone. For more information, call John Hoying at 419-678-5679.

Fire Prevention Project In Rockford

The Rockford Community Fire Department in conjunction with the Sons of the Legion has implemented a fire prevention project to better serve the people living in the fire jurisdiction of Rockford. This new program is set up to provide smoke detectors to families who may not be able to afford one in these economic times. The smoke detectors are a small part of the Rockford Community Fire Department plans to better serve our community. With the money available through the donation from the Sons of the Legion, the fire department is gearing up towards educating the youth of Parkway Local School, and our community to make our homes a safer place to live. If you or someone you know needs assistance please contact Rockford Fire Department by e-mail rockfordfire@bright.net rockfordfire@bright.net or call 419-363-3611. Special thanks go to the Sons of the legion, Captain Todd Williams, Firefighter Ken Scott, Firefighter Todd McKee, and Firefighter Lucus Minnich.

2012 Bowling Fund Raiser & Raffle

Recently the Red Cross Kart Committee hosted their annual Bowling and Raffle Fundraiser. The event raises money for the purchase and maintenance of equipment for the Kart Races which in turn raises money for the Red Cross. Because of this bowling event, 100% of the money raised at the races goes directly to the Red Cross.

The Red Cross would like to thank Pla-Mor Lanes, Rick and Linus Hartings, the volunteers who worked, to everyone who bowled, purchased tickets, donated prizes or made a financial donation in support of the bowling event, Kart Races and of the organization.

Appreciation is also extended to Miss Ohio 2011 Ellen Bryan & Miss Ohio 2009 Erica Gelhaus, Cayla Hellwarth and Kirsten Fennig for their continued support and commitment to the Red Cross by assisting at the fundraiser.

Winners for the Raffle were-

 
CHAR-BROIL GRILL- DONATED BY WATER WERKS-
PURCHASED AT PORTLAND TRUE VALUE-MINDY SIEFRING-ST HENRY, OHIO
 I-PAD- ($500.00) DONATED BY KART COMMITTEE-BILL GILLIS-ST MARYS, OHIO
ELECTRIC FIRE PLACE -DONATED BY BUSCHUR REFRIGERATION -DAN OTTE-NORTH STAR
$300.00 RACE SHOPPING SPREE  AT GELS IGA-DONATED BY KART COMMITTEE-MARVIN & 
JEAN HOMAN -ST HENRY, OHIO
32" FLAT SCREEN TV -DONATED BY WAL-MART-MIKE OSTERHOLT, ST HENRY, OHIO
 $200.00 RACE SHOPPING SPREE - AT GELS IGA-DONATED BY GELS IGA-CARL SCHULZE COLDWATER, OHIO
1 1/2" TREE (25 GAL) MAPLE TREE-DONATED BY NATURES GREEN-PAM KOEHL-COLDWATER
 8 GIG I-POD-DONATED BY WAL-MART -ERYNN PIPER-CELINA, OHIO
CAR DETAILING-DONATED BY HEMMELGARN MARATHON JUSTIN BROERING-ST HENRY, OHIO
ELECTRIC 1/2" METABO HAMMER DRILL-DONATED BY JAY CO. PAWN BROKERS-DOUG HESSON-
NORTH STAR, ASSORTED CAN MEAT GIFT PACK-DONATED BY WERLING & SONS -BEVERLY ELLIS-CELINA, OHIO, 
ASSORTED CAN MEAT GIFT PACK-DONATED BY WERLING & SONS -ERICA BOWERS-ST HENRY, OHIO

The Red Cross and the Kart Committee would also like to thank the following sponsors & volunteers;

Pla-Mor Lanes, Kirsten Fennig, Cayla Hellwarth, Erica Gelhaus, Ellen Bryan, Wal-Mart in Celina,

Buschur Refrigeration, Water Works Car Wash, Portland True Value, C&G Distributing, Jay County Pawn Brokers, Frenchtown Trailer Sales, St. Henry Tile, Art Smith, Eldora Speedway, Four-U Office Supplies, Speckman Automotive, Gel’s IGA, Cooper Farms, 3 G’s Restaurant, Shell Food Mart, The Home Place, The Mr. Shoppe, Bohman’s Carry-Out, NAPA- Coldwater, Ron’s Service LLC, Ray’s Refrigeration, Sanning Service Station, St. Henry Bank, Totally Fit, Ashley Boutique, Wendelin Tavern, Wagon Wheel, 5 Brothers Restaurant, Schockman Lumber Co., Mercer Awards, Hemmelgarn Marathon, Werling & Sons, Nature’s Green, Randy Donovan, SNAP Fitness- St Henry, Celina, Greenville & St. Marys, INVU Salon & Spa, Western Ohio True Value- St Henry, Tom & Connie Everman, Jerry & Rita Siefring, Cody Dues, Sharon and Carl Koesters.

The Red Cross of Mercer County would like to extend our appreciation to all of the kart teams for their continued support and for selling the raffle tickets, the Kart Race Fundraising Committee-Alan Siefring & Shaun Everman, and the rest of the Kart Committee as well- Mike Osterholt, John Staugler, Ron Dues, Bill Hemmelgarn, Kevin Luttmer, Doug Watercutter & Craig Buschur.

For more information regarding Red Cross Kart Racing or to view the 2012 Race Schedule, please visit www.arckartracing.com .

Four Arrested For Stealing Farm Animals

Christina and Lisa Crouch

2-7-12 - Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today the arrest of four individuals who were stealing farm animals in Mercer County.

Arrested were Ricky L. Crouch, age 50, of 8709 E. 600 North, Bryant, Indiana and Chad M. Crouch, age 28, 537 Touvelle St., Celina . Both men were charged with break and entering, a felony of the fifth degree.

Also arrested were Lisa R. Crouch, age 42, of 8709 E. 600 North, Bryant, Indiana and Christina L. Crouch, age 29, 737 Touvelle St., Celina. Both were charged with receiving stolen property, a misdemeanor of the first degree.

Sheriff Grey advised his office had received several reports in the last few weeks indicating the theft of hogs from a farm on the Ohio-Indiana state line. Through the course of the investigation it was determined that Ricky and Chad Crouch were removing hogs from the barn and transporting them to the residence on 600 North, Bryant, Indiana. Both Lisa and Christina Crouch were arrested at a local livestock company in possession of the stolen hogs, attempting to sell them. They are being held in the Mercer County Detention Facility.

The incent lead to local authorities requesting a search warrant in Jay County, Indiana, at 8709 E. 600 North, were more stolen hogs were located. Ricky and Chad Crouch were taken into custody and incarcerated in the Jay County Jail for the Ohio breaking and entering.

Mercer County Sheriff’s Deputies were assisted by the Jay County Sheriff’s Office in this investigation.

Rockford Teen Drowns After Auto Accident

The crash happened late Saturday night near Ottoville in Putnam County.

Troopers say Coon made a call for help using her cellphone, searchers who traced the signal had trouble determining the vehicle's exact location. A trooper found a hubcap near the pond about two hours after the crash and found Coon who was still in the car when it was pulled from the water.

Troopers are still investigating what happened at the accident.

Obituary - Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home, Rockford

New Center Receives Contribution

Francis and Joan Pax (center) have donated to Mercer Health’s Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Center campaign now underway to raise funds toward the purchase of new equipment that will be installed. Also pictured are Nancy Mescher, Cardiopulmonary Services Director, and John Hoying, MED Foundation Development Director.

John Hoying, Development Director of the Medical, Educational, and Development (MED) Foundation, says, “Mr. and Mrs. Pax believe in and support the activities at Mercer County Community Hospital and were very helpful with their donation to this important project.”

The new unit, planned for completion in late February or early March, 2012, will provide 1,200 square feet of space at a new location within Mercer County Community Hospital, Coldwater. Contributions toward purchase of equipment are now being accepted. Persons interested in making a tax deductible donation should contact John Hoying at 419-678-5679.

Holiday Mail & Gifts for Heroes season is wrapped up

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

Over the past five years, the Holiday Mail for Heroes program has collected millions of holiday cards from individuals, schools, churches and other community groups. This year, the Red Cross of Mercer County again witnessed Americans’ enthusiasm for the program to show their support to our local military members by signing or creating handmade cards and donating needed items to be sent to those serving. Ricky Woods, a local veteran, helped distribute holiday mail to approximately 20 local sites, ranging from veterans homes and nursing homes to homes of current military members. As someone who served in the U.S. Navy, Woods understands the importance of sending holiday wishes. “Remembering the military members, veterans and their families is very important but especially over the Christmas holiday” Woods stated. “It lets them know we are thinking of them and that they are not forgotten for what they are doing and what they did for all of us”.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Midwest Electric members donate $13,649 to area charities

Since the program began in 1998, the Midwest Electric Community Connection Fund has provided $687,042 to 499 area projects.

The recent Fund recipients include the following:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Board of Trustees, composed of cooperative members and separate from the Midwest Electric Board of Trustees, oversees the application and allocation process.

Individuals or organizations can obtain an application by contacting Midwest Electric, at 419-394-4110 or 1-800-962-3830.

Shinn Brothers Construction Theft

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

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

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

Three Celina Teens Arrested In I-Pod Thefts

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

Congressional vote is crucial to safety of roads and bridges

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

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

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

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

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

Mercer County Engineer, Jim Wiechart commented, "Mercer County has 406 bridges and more than 800 miles of county and township roads, and we are very concerned about the potential impact of this, should it become law."

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

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

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

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

Parkway FFA Send Four Freshman To Food Science Competition

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

Running Government Like a Business Pays Off for Ohio Taxpayers

By Josh Mandel, Treasurer of Ohio

That’s why my first action as Ohio’s Treasurer was to launch a Top to Bottom Review of the office to find ways to eliminate waste and run more efficiently. This review identified over a hundred ways to save money, streamline operations and stretch taxpayer dollars.

For instance, the review uncovered that an individual was being paid to drive millions of dollars worth of government checks from Columbus to our depository bank in Cleveland every single day. I asked our staff, if a citizen can deposit a check from their smart phone or personal computer, why can’t the government? As a result, we implemented an electronic banking system that saved the state $100,000 per year in unnecessary costs, increased interest income, and perhaps most importantly, increased security of taxpayer funds.

I also looked at the spending of previous administrations and found wasteful expenses that our office could simply do without. We slashed spending on promotional materials and advertising expenses, and discontinued the purchase of giveaway items like pencils, tote bags, piggy banks, fans, golf shirts, water bottles and jar openers – items that added no real value to the core functions of the Treasurer’s office.

We also sought to break a taboo of state government and aggressively cut transportation costs and sold state vehicles. By directing our staff to either drive themselves or share vehicles with other state agencies we saved taxpayers money on car payments, insurance, parking and maintenance.

The review uncovered that one past Treasurer spent more than $678,000 on new office furniture like expensive filing cabinets, and fancy desks and chairs. I placed an immediate moratorium on the purchase of new office furniture and instructed my staff to make the best use of the furniture we have in the office.

As the state’s fiscal watchdog, we placed a renewed focus on protecting the money that we hold for taxpayers. We charted a conservative strategy to navigate the European sovereign debt crisis that allowed us to earn back all principal and interest on investments in European bank commercial paper, and to eliminate taxpayer exposure to the crisis.

We also diligently worked to maintain and improve Ohio’s credit ratings in order to keep our borrowing costs low. I am happy to report that, through our conservative budgeting and fiscal management, at the same time the United States credit rating was downgraded by Standard & Poor’s (S&P), Ohio’s credit rating outlook was upgraded.

STAR Ohio – the investment fund that I manage for local governments and school districts – maintained the highest rating possible, even as Standard & Poor's downgraded 14 other similar local government funds across the country and unfortunately downgraded the United States' credit rating for the first time in American history. Additionally, Ohio’s general obligation bonds received the highest rating possible from Fitch, at the same time as they downgraded the United States’ rating outlook.

Our efforts to run government more like a business are paying off for taxpayers. At the end of the fiscal year, we were able to return a $400,000 surplus to taxpayers, and implement a budget that reduces general revenue fund operating expenses by $1.2 million.

As Ohio’s Treasurer I have been focused on our goal of running the most cost-effective, productive and efficient treasurer’s office in the country. I count all 11.5 million Ohioans as my bosses, and I am working hard to ensure that the Treasurer’s office gives taxpayers the return on investment and services that they deserve – especially in this challenging economy.

CLICK HERE - Treasurer Mandel’s Top-Bottom Review Report at www.OhioTreasurer.gov.

Boy Scout Troop 69 Leaders Awarded

from left to right – Cub Scout Pack 69 scoutmaster – Steve Stewart, Boy Scout Troop 69 Leaders – Larry Braun, Randy Engle and Jerry Braun.

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

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

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

Larry Braun was honored with the Grand Lake Award that is unique to the Old Sycamore District. A landmark to both Auglaize and Mercer Counties, the recipient is acknowledged for his/her dedication and desire to move forward, develop the character of the youth of the Old Sycamore District and hold our youth in the highest esteem. Larry has been dedicated to the Boy Scouts of America since 1969.

Outstanding Cubmaster of 2011 was presented to Steve Stewart of Cub Scout Pack 69. This award is in recognition for an individual Cub Scouter for going the extra mile. For taking the extra time to make sure that a good program is available to our youth.

In the Boy Scout program, boys learn through the experiences of camping, hiking, building projects, and community service. Scouting fosters self-esteem, a sense of value and belonging, a sense of accountability, and teamwork. The program builds boys mentally, physically, socially, and spiritually. The skills they learn in Scouting help them overcome obstacles and challenges with courage and character throughout their lives.

For more information on The Boy Scouts of America go online to http://www.scouting.org/ or locally contact Celina Troop 69 Scoutmaster J erry Braun at 419-584-0046 or email at BoyScoutTroop69@roadrunner.com

IC D.A.R.E. Graduation

D.A.R.E. Essay class winners were Christian Swonger, Maddy Luebke, Noah Shrock and Emma Lutz. Each class essay winner read their essay and received a certificate of achievement.

The D.A.R.E. Honor students were Rachael Olberding, Jasmine Thees, Christian Swonger, Emma Lutz and Maddy Luebke. Each Honor student received an achievement medal furnished by the Mercer County D.A.R.E. Boosters.

The 5th grade teacher is Sherry Reineke, and Principal is Mrs. Muhlenkamp. Diplomas were handed out by Father Schnipke and Mrs. Muhlekamp. Graduating were Colin Adams, Bryan Heinrichs, Nolan Liggett, Claire Link, Madeline Luebke, Emma Lutz, Ryan McDonough, Rachael Olberding, Noah Shrock, Christian Swonger, Jasmine Thees and Collin Williams.

Special Guests in attendance were Judge Mary Pat Zitter, 911 Administrator Monte Diegle, Nancy Heppard of the Mercer County D.A.R.E. Boosters, Deputy Chad Fortkamp and Zack and Deputy Sue Miller.

Deputy Mark Germann was the instructor for the Immaculate Conception class and Deputy Germann and Deputy Sue Miller are the D.A.R.E. Instructors for the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office.

Celina Woman Charged In Local Break-Ins

Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced today his office has filed charges against a Celina woman regarding an area break-in of a local business. Mandi L. Gibbons, age 31, of 632 Grove Street #9, Celina, is currently being held in the Mercer County Detention Center on charges of Breaking and Entering and Theft, both felonies of the fifth degree.

Ms. Gibbons has admitted to stealing over $1,000 in metal tent stakes from Reliable Rental, Inc., 6057 Franklin Street, Celina. The business reported the theft on January 20, 2012 and deputies responded and took a report. Information was obtained placing Ms. Gibbons at the scene in the days following and also information regarding the disposal and sale of the stolen items.

On January 26, 2012 during an interview at the Sheriff’s Office, Ms. Gibbons admitted to the theft and disposal of the items at a local Salvage Yard. Ms. Gibbons was taken into custody and incarcerated at the Mercer County Jail.

Her vehicle, a maroon 1992 Chevrolet Astro mini-van that was used in the theft offense, was towed from the Sheriff’s Office and secured in a Sheriff’s Office building. The vehicle contains other items that are believed to stolen, including a large amount of farm machinery and pieces of farm machinery and other equipment.

Ms. Gibbons appeared in Celina Municipal Court and was ordered held in the Mercer County Jail on a $5,000 cash bond.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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