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UPDATED 3-10-10 - Lima All Star Wrestling Meet Results

UPDATED 3-5-10 - 2009-10 MAC All League Boys and Girls Basketball Team

UPDATED 3-4-10 - 2009-10 Western Buckeye League All League Girls Basketball Team

LOCAL NEWS

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Formal Charges In Drug Overdose Death

Formal charges have been filed against a Lima woman in connection with the drug overdose death that occurred in Celina in August of 2009. Bradley D. Heckman, (38), was found dead on the afternoon of August 30, 2009, at 207 Dogwood Drive in Celina. An autopsy revealed that the cause of death was acute multi-drug intoxication. Investigation into his death led to the development of a suspect.

Vicky L. Sprow, (54), 422 Marian Ave, Lima, has been charged with three counts, including Involuntary Manslaughter (F-1), Reckless Homicide (F-3), and Trafficking in Drugs (F-4)). The charges stem from Sprow’s role in providing the drugs that ultimately lead to Heckman’s death, to Heckman. The Celina Police Department presented the case to the February session of the Mercer County Grand Jury. The Grand Jury returned indictments on the three felony charges. Sprow was located and taken into custody by the Allen County Sheriff’s Office at her home this morning. She is currently being held at the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility awaiting an initial appearance in the Mercer County Common Pleas Court.

Ohio House Passes Bipartisan Solution For Livestock Care

“I am excited that we were able to compromise on this important legislation and take the next step towards making the Livestock Care Standards Board a reality here in Ohio,” Zehringer said. “Ohioans overwhelmingly supported Issue 2 last fall, and this legislation enables the will of the people by making sure we keep our food supply safe.”

House Bill 414 implements the language that voters overwhelmingly supported in November through Issue 2. When enacted, this legislation will establish requirements and responsibilities of the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board and the Director of Agriculture in administering and enforcing the rules that govern the care and well-being of livestock in this state.

Representative Zehringer spoke briefly on the House floor about the importance of the measure and his strong support that the board be funded from existing money, rather than new fees.

The measure will now move to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.

Midwest Electric Loans $20,000 to St. Henry Retail Business

INVU owner Jennifer Niekamp and husband Chris, with Midwest Electric’s Matt Berry, will use a $20,000 economic development loan from Midwest Electric to expand their beauty salon business in St. Henry.

March 10, 2010 - INVU has received a $20,000 low-interest economic development loan from Midwest Electric. The hair, nails, tanning and massage salon, owned by Jennifer Niekamp, is opening a new business in St. Henry in the North Town retail center on North Eastern Avenue. The business, currently known as A Personal Touch, has been in Coldwater for 18 years and is moving to St. Henry this spring. The INVU total project cost is estimated at $60,000.

Niekamp said the new INVU will offer more services than her current beauty salon, such as nails, tanning and massage services. She has committed to add at least one new job.

The Midwest Electric revolving loan fund was established in 2007 with a $300,000 grant from USDA Rural Development and has loaned out $490,000 to area business projects.

Bridge Closing

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

AGENDA-Board of Mercer County Commissioners

COLT Meeting [Attended by Mr. Nuding] ... 9:00 a.m.

Investment Advisory Committee Quarterly Meeting ... 10:00 a.m.

Sealed Bids opened for Road Materials ... 11:00 a.m.

Minutes, Resolutions, and Correspondence .. 11:30 a.m.

Minutes: March 9, 2010 submitted for approval.

Resolutions

Authorize drawing of a warrant for then and now certificates.

Appropriation transfer requests by Commissioners’ Office.

Travel Expense Requests, if any.

Authorize R.E. Becker Builders to operate as a building sewer tapper for 2010.

Establish March 30 at 10:00 a.m. as the day and time to receive bids for the Chattanooga Fire Cistern Project and advertise of the same.

Agreement between Ohio Hi Point and Workforce Investment Act for providing basic computer literacy education courses.

Request by Job and Family Services to renew software agreement with RightFax Support for phone support and software upgrades.

Renew Compass Software Maintenance Agreement and the On-site Maintenance Services Agreement with Northwoods Consulting Partners for digital imaging equipment at Job and Family Services.

Proclamation recognizing the Fort Recovery Chamber of Commerce Award Recipients.

Supplemental Employment Contracts between companies, clients and Job and Family Services.

Title XX Social Service Contract between The Marsh Foundation and Job and Family Services for residential treatment for client.

Other general business at this time and throughout the day

SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2010

CELINA CITY COUNCIL Committee Meeting

Council of a Whole Committee

Meeting Topic: Renewable Energy

Celina Man Charged With Felony

UPDATED 3-10-10 - Craig A. Heiser is scheduled to appear in Celina Municipal Court for an initial appearance on a charge of Rape, (F-1) and Sexual Battery, (F-3), at 10:00AM on Thursday, 03-11-10.

A Celina man is facing a third degree felony charge for engaging in sexual conduct with a 15-year old female. The charge stems from an incident that occurred in July of 2009. The original report was filed on July 5, 2009, by the mother of the victim. The ensuing investigation led to seizure of several items of evidence. Forensic tests on those items recently identified the suspect.

Craig A. Heiser, (39), 224 W. Anthony Street, Celina, was incarcerated in the Mercer County Jail this morning. He was picked up on a warrant issued upon a state complaint, when he reported to the Celina Police for mandatory breath testing. The breath testing order was issued as part of a family safety plan supervised by Mercer County Children’s Services. Heiser will be scheduled to appear in court later this week.

COSI On Wheels Coming To Mercer Healthy Living Expo, March 20

The first ever Mercer Healthy Living Expo will be held on Saturday, March 20, from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Galleria in Celina. Featured at the event will be COSI on Wheels from Columbus, Ohio, plus exhibits and activities from over 35 Mercer County area agencies and businesses.

According to Ken Obringer, Director of Marketing & Communications at Mercer Health, the Expo is an extension of the traditional Health Fair that is always held this time of year. He says, “We had an opportunity to take a look at what we have done in the past and came up with a new event to include other organizations and businesses from throughout the Mercer County area. It allows us to make our annual spring health fair a family event with activities for children and adults..”

Part of the new Expo will be the addition of COSI on Wheels. Obringer says, “Thanks to the generosity of the Mercer County Chronicle, we are able to bring COSI on Wheels to Celina. They will be bringing in their displays that include 20 different interactive activities for children of all ages.”

Obringer states, “In addition to COSI, we will have nearly 50 other exhibits that will feature other fun activities for children as well as a number of adult health screenings and blood tests including the Lipid Profile for $17. There is a 12 hour fast required for that one.”

Other blood tests available include the C-Reactive Protein-hs ($20), Hemoglobin A1C ($25), Anemia Screening ($10), Prostate (PSA) Screening ($30), Thyroid Screening (TSH and Free T4 - $40) and a Comprehensive Metabolic Health Panel ($23 – includes Glucose with 2 hour fast required). Free colorectal cancer test kits will also be available.

A wide variety of agencies will be offering free screenings. Among those that will be available are screenings for oral cancer, vision testing, glaucoma, dry eyes, blood pressure, glucose, CO monitoring, dermascan, height, weight & BMI with body fat analysis, visual acuity screening, foot (including diabetic foot exams), osteoporosis, hearing, Alzheimer’s screening, and child development screening.

There will also be many different activities and demonstrations including free weight demonstrations, an obstacle course for kids, spring crafts, interactive educational games, free mini-massages, plus many sources of information on a wide variety of health care topics.

Obringer states, “This is probably the largest gathering of agencies involved in the physical and mental well being of people that has ever gathered in Mercer County. 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 Dentistry For You, Mercer County Department of Children Services, Lifetime Vision Care, 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, Innergy Fitness, Mercer County American Red Cross, Mercer County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Ft. Recovery Family Medicine, Grand Lake Podiatry, Family Audiology Associates, Mercer County Chronicle, West Central Ohio Regional Healthcare Alliance (WCORHA), Briarwood Village, Fort Fitness-N-More, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, OUR Home, Auglaize-Mercer Counties YMCA, Mercer County DARE, The American Cancer Society, Mercer County Health Department, Life Connections of Ohio, Chief Supermarkets, Dr. Sara Shockney, Snap Fitness, and Mercer County Week of the Young Child.

Persons wanting more information can call 419-678-5613 or 419-586-1220.

Coldwater School Board

CLICK HERE - Coldwater School Board Agenda - March 8, 2010

"Celina Girls Basketball Association"

3rd and 4th Grade Girls

There were two groups (3rd & 4th grade and 5th & 6th grade) of young ladies that participated in the "Celina Girls Basketball Association" (CGBA), a Celina City Schools elementary basketball program.

The girls worked on basketball fundamentals as well as learned how to play different basketball games. They worked hard and had lots of fun learning about basketball. Thanks go out to volunteer coaches: Dale Moorman & Dale Stahl - 6th Grade Larry Boley - 5th grade

5th and 6th Grade Girls

Range Work

Celina police officers qualify with firearms four times each year. The weapons each officer must qualify on include a duty handgun, off-duty/back up handgun, shotgun and patrol rifle. To help insure a balanced proficiency level throughout the year, the qualification shoots are staggered over the 12 month period. At each qualification shoot officers must satisfactorily complete a qualification course with one of the weapons and a practice course with another.

This year, officers found themselves performing shotgun qualifications during the heavy snow periods in February. Duty handgun practice was the secondary course each officer completed. The winter weather was actually a very good venue for the range work. It allowed officers to practice firearms techniques while wearing heavy coats, hats and gloves. Many times such conditions can only be simulated. While not everyone actually completed course during snowfall, the range conditions and temperature were fairly constant during qualification week.

Boehner Backs Bunning's Obstruction of Jobless Benefits Extension

In another example of putting heartless politics ahead of real people, Representative John Boehner yesterday backed Senator Jim Bunning in his efforts to block Senate action on a bill to extend unemployment benefits and health care coverage that would benefit Americans out of work.

“Representative Boehner and Senator Bunning are playing tiresome partisan games on the backs of real people across America, including families from Troy to Middletown and even West Chester, who are struggling to find a decent paying job in a desperate economy,” said Justin Coussoule (pronounced kuh-SOO-lee), the Democratic candidate for Congress.

As a result of Senator Bunning's actions, nearly 1.2 million Americans Monday lost their unemployment benefits, including nearly 50,000 Ohioans and more than 3,000 families in the 8th Congressional District (source: McClatchy News Service). Nearly 2,000 federal workers also were placed on furlough as the bill provided funding for federal highway projects. Thankfully, after relentless pressure from members of both parties, Senator Bunning yielded yesterday and the Senate passed the extension with an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote.

Representative Boehner backed Bunning's heartless actions, telling reporters in a press conference Tuesday that Bunning “has a legitimate argument.” Bunning demanded the Senate cut $10 billion from another program to pay for the extension of benefits. But Bunning and Boehner had no problem supporting appropriations bills under President Bush with more than $700 billion in annual deficits, or approving funding for two wars costing more than $944 billion that were never paid for, or supporting Bush tax cuts for the wealthy that have added more than $1.2 trillion to federal debt (source: MediaMatters).

“Where were Jim Bunning and John Boehner on pay-as-you-go when they voted to approve the Bush budgets for eight years,” asked Coussoule. “In fact, if pay-as-you-go is so important to Senator Bunning and Representative Boehner, why did they vote no on the bill when it reached the floor of their respective chambers last month?”

A West Pointer and former Army captain, Coussoule is the Democratic candidate for Congress in the Eighth Congressional District.

Zehringer Announces Amendment To Livestock Care Standards Legislation That Eliminates Fee Increase

“It was extremely important to me that we fund this board with general revenue funds rather than creating new fees,” Zehringer said. “With the current economic climate, it makes sense to allocate existing funds for this Board rather than asking for new money from our constituencies.”

Zehringer has been a major proponent for keeping the costs of the Board low and funding these expenses through existing revenue streams. Members of the Board will not receive compensation, but will be reimbursed for mileage expenses.

“The people of Ohio need to have faith that the Board will be funded and equipped to deal with any food safety challenges that confront our state,” said Zehringer. “The willingness of members on both sides of the aisle to propose and support this change shows how strongly all members in our committee feel about this issue.”

The Livestock Care Standards enabling legislation was reported unanimously from committee today and could come before the full House for a vote sometime in the coming weeks.

Click here - Village of Rockford Council Minutes 3-2-10

SPRING SAFETY SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK

March 21 – March 27, 2010

The Mercer County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management encourages everyone to prepare their families, businesses and their properties for severe storms.

WEATHER SPOTTERS COURSE
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
7:00 PM
Central Services Building
220 W. Livingston St., Celina, Ohio

2010 Chamber Banquet

The Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards banquet on Thursday, February 25th at the Galleria in Celina. Guest speaker was Robin Elston of Elston Consulting LLC. Past Chamber President Janet White and current Chamber President Shirley Gross addressed the crowd of over 200 people.

Chamber awards winners

 
2009 Community Business of the Year - Grand Lake Regional Cancer Center
2009 Citizen of the Year - Sharon LaRue
2009 Achievement Award  - Mike & Brenda Robinson & Family
2009 Humanitarian Award - Rev. Kenny Baker & Rev. Tim Clutter, CALL Food Ministries

Thank You

Girl Scout Daisy Troop 20502 would like to thank Gateway Outreach Center for providing space for meetings and special activities. Pictured bottom row left to right Sunni Cromwell, Aliviah Delzeith, top row left to right Aubrey Brinkman, Taylor Binkley, Ashtyn Huber, Samantha Jacobs Not pictured are Troop Leaders- Shannon Adams and Karen Cromwell

JTDMH Auxiliary Raises Funds for Surgery and Wound Care Centers

Pictured L to R: Karen Ryals, Executive Director of JTD Hospital Foundation, Joann Hegemier, Volunteer Coordinator; Carolynn Sidey and Edith Wissman, Auxiliary co-Presidents; Becky Huston, Auxiliary member; Dorothy Hertenstein, Auxiliary member; Cheryl Kline, Auxiliary Secretary; Kevin Harlan, President & CEO; Jeanette Quellhorst, Gift Shoppe Buyer; and Colette Dugan., Gift Shoppe Treasurer. Absent from picture was Angie Guarnieri-Wibbeler, gift shoppe buyer/designer.

For over fifty 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 102 current members, it remains active and dedicated to supporting patient care with their contributions.

This week the Auxiliary announced its plans to donate $15,000.00 to the Hospital for the purchase of equipment for the new Wound Care Center and the Surgery Center. The money for this contribution has been raised through proceeds from the Gift Shop, Book Fair, Bake Sale, Uniform Sales, and Jewelry Sale, to name a few.

The Auxiliary funded the purchase of IV equipment and a Stryker Big Wheel Cart for the Surgery Center. The Surgery Center performs approximately 4500 surgeries per year, including specialties of Orthopedic, Podiatry, ENT, Urology, Ophthalmology, Endoscopy, General Surgery, and Gynecology. Based on our patient satisfactions scores, the surgical center consistently ranks in the top 5% of all hospitals for overall care.

The Wound Care Center received funds to purchase a Hospira Plum A+ Hyperbaric Infusion system. This pump will allow the hyperbaric therapy patients the opportunity to receive their IV treatments at the same time as their Hyperbaric treatment, thus affording more convenience for the patients, and staff efficiency and productivity.

Parkway FFA Sends Students to Agricultural and Industrial Diagnostics

When Mark and Jared first arrived they took the written test. This was supposed to be taken online at school, but due to cancellations, it was postponed until the day of testing. The two of them then worked together in the four stations. Each station consisted of a different type of tractor. There were two Caterpillar tractors, a John Deere tractor, and a Massey Ferguson tractor. Mark and Jared had 20 minutes to find the problems. Many of the problems included safety locks, fuse boxes, switches, and wires hooked up wrong.

These two students placed 13th in the district. Agricultural Diagnostics was a good team building activity and help students learn a great deal about the different tractors. Mark Sheets said that the experience would be “helpful in the future for he hopes to do something within this general idea.” Jared Rollins added, “This experience was exciting and really made me think. I hope to use this information in the future.” The Parkway would like to congratulate these boys on their job well done and would like to thank them for their hard work and effort.

Parkway FFA Boosters Holding Strawberry Fundraiser

The strawberries are being sold by the flat or half-flat. A flat consists of 8 quart containers filled with strawberries. A flat cost is $24.00 and a half-flat is $13.00.

The strawberries will be delivered sometime around March 15th. Thank you for supporting the Parkway FFA Boosters and its many activities.

Auglaize County Robbery and Home Invasion

The home was north of the village of Uniopolis near the Allen / Auglaize County line. The exact location is not being released.

The value of property taken was in excess of $5,000.

The vehicle taken from the residence by suspect(s) is a maroon SUV type. It was recovered at 11:46 AM at Shawnee Industrial Park Dr. just west of McClain Rd. in Allen County. Vehicle was processed for evidence. Anyone who may have seen this vehicle or a similar vehicle in the area is asked to call the Sheriff’s Office.

Items of evidence taken from the residence by Detectives are being processed to try and locate suspect(s).

The investigation continues. Sheriff Solomon wants anyone with any information to call the Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office Detectives at (419) 739-6555.

GOP Lawmaker Returns to the Campaign Trail

Rep. Zehringer continues the fight for jobs and economic growth

“I am really excited about the opportunity to continue my service to the citizens of the 77th House District,” said Rep. Zehringer. “I look forward to representing the ideals and interests shared by the citizens in Mercer, Darke and Preble counties.”

Since the beginning of the 128th General Assembly, Rep. Zehringer has fought to create jobs and boost Ohio's economy through viable, sustainable changes to the way government does business. He voted against all tax increases while supporting cost-saving efficiency measures, with the goal of making state government work better for the people it is intended to serve.

Specifically, Rep. Zehringer fought to preserve income tax reduction, protect Ohio agriculture and bolster small businesses. Among other proposals, he introduced bills to assist a small business in his district, stiffen penalties for assault on judges and to enact regulatory reform across Ohio.

“I feel so privileged to be able to serve my fellow citizens as a member of the state legislature,” Rep. Zehringer said. “I will continue to work relentlessly to earn the trust of my constituents, and I am looking forward to continuing my travels to meet with people all over my district.”

Grand Lake Patriots Host “One Nation Under God” Speaker, Thomas N. Tabback

Tabback’s bio information highlights his passion for the United States and its Christian roots:

“In the spring of 2009, Thomas N. Tabback, his wife and his four children forsook house and home in Austin, Texas, and set out for the open road. For love of God, country, and the future of their children and yours, they embarked on this journey with no backing (church, ministry, political group or otherwise), in order to wake America up to return to its roots as One Nation Under GOD.

“After nearly a year of nonstop living on the road with his family, Thomas has now spoken before tens of thousands of American patriots all across the country. His message is rooted in the biblical parallels between ancient Israel and America today. . .”

The program is open to the public, with free admission. Refreshments are being donated. Participants are asked to bring along their own folding chair or lawn chair. Plenty of parking space is available in the old J.C. Penney Building parking lot, and the building is handicapped accessible. Contact Grand Lake Patriots president, Allen Heindel, at grandlakepatriots@gmail.com or Dan Kremer at Daniel@eatfoodforlife.com for further information.

Representative John Boehner Protects Big Insurance over Consumers

Representative John Boehner’s vote Wednesday to protect big health insurance companies from antitrust regulation was a direct vote against the interests of his constituents struggling to find affordable health care coverage.

“Representative Boehner’s choice is a clear example of his willingness to protect the special interests in Washington rather than the people and small businesses of the Eighth District struggling to afford health insurance,” said Justin Coussoule (pronounced ka-SOO-lee), Democratic candidate for Congress in the 8th Congressional District. “Boehner has received nearly $1 million from the health insurance lobby, and today they were rewarded by his vote to enable them to continue to manipulate the insurance market to charge skyrocketing premiums while taking record profits.”

Representative Boehner has received $939,276 from the health insurance industry. On Wednesday, the House voted on the Health Insurance Industry Fair Competition Act, which would repeal the anti-trust exemption for health insurance companies. The measure, which overwhelmingly passed the House by a 406-19 vote, would repeal laws that protect health insurance companies from liability against price fixing and market manipulation. Over the past 14 years, over 400 mergers among health insurers have left the market so concentrated that 95% of consumers have little to no choice of insurers.

At the same time, insurance premiums have more than doubled, and insurance company profits have skyrocketed. Last year, the top five insurers made $12.2 billion, a 56 percent increase over the last year, while dropping coverage for 2.7 million Americans [HealthCareForAmericaNow.org; February, 2010].

“It’s time that Representative Boehner answer to his constituents for his vote in favor of big insurance companies who are driving up premiums at double-digit rates and making it even more difficult for hard-working Americans and small businesses to afford insurance coverage,” Coussoule said.

Tillage Transect Winter 2009-10

The watershed project encourages no tillage and reduced tillage practices. This is in accordance with the endorsed watershed action plan. This plan includes two objectives directly related to tillage and cover crops. These objectives are: 4,000 acres of cover crops and 5,000 acres of conservation tillage. Other objectives in the watershed action plan include more agricultural, residential, construction and lake related best management practices.

Cover crops are known to increase organic matter in the soil. Organic material is vital for good crops and improves the fertility of the hard clay soils in our area. Cover crops also provide a growing crop for winter manure application. The watershed project recommends avoiding winter manure application, but if it must be done, it is best to apply on a growing crop. For more information on best management practices related to winter manure application, contact your local Soil and Water Conservation District.

The tillage transect summary for the Ohio portion of the Upper Wabash River Watershed is as follows:

Over half of the watershed had no fall tillage. This is similar to past years. This includes hay fields and areas which have a cover crop, including wheat.

Just over two percent of the watershed was strip till. This is a small amount, but has increased.

Reduced fall tillage covered 17 percent of the watershed. These fields have 15 to 30 percent field cover. Field cover is the amount of field covered by vegetation left from the previous crop or the current growing crop.

Fall mulch tillage covered another 19 percent of the watershed. These fields have greater than 30 percent field cover.

Almost 10 percent of the watershed had been fall plowed. This is any field with less than 15 percent cover. This is an increase from previous transects, but may be due to crop rotation. Often hayfields or fields with certain pest problems are fall plowed.

For more information about the tillage transect or other watershed related topics and questions, please contact the watershed coordinator, Laura Walker laura.walker@mercercountyohio.org or 419-586-3289.

State Representative Jim Zehringer Honored As “Watchdog of the Treasury”

"I am honored to receive this award, and I will continue to fight for smaller government, less taxes and more economic freedom for my constituents," Zehringer said.

The award was presented at a breakfast ceremony in Columbus, held by the United Conservatives of Ohio. The United Conservatives of Ohio supports the responsible spending of taxpayers’ dollars, the elimination of government waste, and the free-market system of competition among private sector firms.

It’s time for progress not partisanship in Washington

The following is a guest column by Justin Coussoule, Democratic candidate for Congress in the 8th Congressional District that was submitted to the Mercer County Outlook.

Last Thursday, I formally filed paperwork to become a candidate for Congress in the 8th Congressional District. I chose to run in this race because like many of you, I am concerned about where our country is headed, and I am frustrated with the lack of progress in Washington. I’m concerned for my wife and children, for my neighbors, my community, for our future, for friends who are suffering job losses, and for all the people of our district who are busily going about their lives, providing for their families, serving their communities, and struggling to make ends meet amidst the many challenges we face everyday.

As a member of a working family, I’m worried about job security; about the dramatic disappearance of jobs and small businesses in our communities; about the loss for so many of that most basic human need – to earn an honest day’s wage for an honest day’s work. I believe firmly that we must collectively work to bring back manufacturing jobs to this country so our country becomes a producer of goods rather than simply a consumer.

As a future retiree, I’m worried about the catastrophic decline in the value of my retirement; worried about our financial security – still at the mercy of a woefully under-regulated financial sector, still indifferent to the consequences of their reckless and self-serving behavior on real people, like us. And I’m angry that our current representative is making promises to the Wall Street bankers he helped to bail out that he now will work to block any new regulations to protect the public in exchange for campaign contributions for his party.

As a homeowner, I’m worried about the value of my home and my neighbors’ homes, concerned about the continuing toll of the foreclosure crisis on our economy, on our communities and on all the families who suffer as a result.

As a taxpayer, I’m frustrated with elected officials like our current Representative who have carelessly approved spending beyond our country’s means for nearly a decade, acting with knowing disregard for responsible and sustainable fiscal practices and wasting untold hundreds of billions of our tax dollars on an unnecessary war and irresponsible tax cuts for the rich, all the while, scoffing at programs to strengthen, build and grow our people and our communities.

And as a constituent, I’m frustrated with career politicians like Congressman Boehner, who serve only the special interests of the rich and powerful, eager to bask in privilege and excess, while willingly ignoring the people they were elected to serve, unaware or indifferent to their viewpoints, their struggles, and their aspirations.

I’m running to fight for progress not partisanship – to work with members of both parties toward solutions that actually benefit the people of our district. Together, we can advance sensible approaches to the challenges that we face – to fight for programs that educate and train our people for new jobs, that encourage new and expanding small businesses, and that acknowledge our interconnectedness and the reality that we progress forward when we invest in our people.

Government solutions may not always be the answer, but they are not always the problem either, as Mr. Boehner would have us believe. In a democracy, we get the government we deserve – because we make it what it is. And Mr. Boehner’s ‘just say no’ approach to governance, is neither effective leadership nor responsible representation.

Our district has too-long suffered from our Congressman’s unyielding adherence to that which may help his political party but only hurts his constituents.

That’s why I’m running – to end the twenty-year reign of an out-of-touch career politician and take back the people’s seat in Congress; to return responsibility, respect and common sense to our seat in Washington; and to listen to and learn from all the people of the 8th District, giving them a voice once again.

A West Point graduate, former Army Captain, and P&G employee, Justin Coussoule is the presumptive Democratic nominee for the 8th Congressional Seat. Justin resides in Liberty Township, Ohio, with his wife, Amanda, and two young children. Learn more about Justin’s campaign at www.coussouleforcongress.com.

Rockford Community Days Minutes - 02/23/10

John Sooner – C & G Distributing Co was here to give us some pricing and other information regarding the beer trailer. He will be putting together a spread sheet and getting it back to us with profit margin information. He can also supply banners and other items to dress up the area.

Update on pavilion – still waiting on some quotes. Should have something definite at the next meeting.

Youth Football Activities – Didn’t have a representative here .

Chamber – FBLA to sell cookies? Chamber taking over the parade? Didn’t have a representative here.

Entertainment – Muhlenkamp Juggler can only come on Friday night. Will do a one hour show.

Clowns for God will be here on Satuday afternoon.

Parkway Alumni – still checking on this for Friday night.

Friday – Jam Session or Band – tabled to next meeting. Saturday night band tabled until next meeting.

Committee agreed to try a gun raffle this year. Will purchase 3 guns. Will sell $1,000 tickets. Kerry to check on getting tickets printed.

Inflatables – need to set budget. Amy will come up with some different budget options.

Softball – still working on this. Should be a go.

Need to get a list of all the local news/entertainment guides. Need all the free advertising we can get. Past years have been very expensive in the advertising area. Need to cut those costs by advertising all events at once instead of each group promoting their own activity.

Rough draft of donation letter reviewed. Need to make several changes.

Wilbur will get door prizes like last year. We may decide to use them as attendance prizes instead of selling raffle tickets.

Next meeting March 9th at 7:30 pm.

Rockford Police Chief Paul May Spends Some Time In School Today

(2-23-10) - Rockford Police Chief Paul May was invited by Mrs. Klosterman to speak to her special needs class. Chief May spoke to boys about safety and what he does in his d ay to day job. Chief May demostrated the taser and passed his handcuffs around for the boys to feel. Chief May also promised that if the boys were good he would come back with Rockford's Police Golf cart and give them a ride.

Parkway FFA Participates in Evaluations

The students that applied to receive their State Degrees were Olivia Houts, Abby Evans, Zach Searight, and Garth Louth. All of them made it through districts and the books are now evaluated at the State level.

Dee Dee Knapke was the lone Parkway FFA member who applied for her American Degree. Her book passed at district level, and is now being re-judged at the state level.

The Parkway FFA Chapter also had two members apply for Proficiency Awards. Dee Dee Knapke and Samantha Beerbower both received a gold rating and have moved on to the state level. Dee Dee Knapke applied with Sheep Production and Sam Beerbower applied with her mums under Floriculture.

The three officers, treasurer, secretary, and reporter, each submitted a completed book to be judged. Abby Evans, treasurer, received a gold rating with her book. Destinee Guggenbiller, secretary, received a gold rating as well with her book. Danielle Matthews, reporter, received a gold rating and a 2nd place finish with her scrapbook. Each officer will receive a gold pin on stage at the State Convention in May.

The Parkway FFA would like to congratulate these students for their hard work and wish them the best of luck at the state level.

Auglaize County Drug Arrest

As a result of the Investigation and Search Warrant a Keith Parsons, age 34, who lived at the residence has been arrested. Parsons has been charged with Manufacturing of Drugs, a Felony of the first degree, and Assembly of the drug, a Felony of the third degree.

Task force members were assisted during the investigation and at the scene by Deputies from the Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office, Local Emergency Management, St Marys Police Department Officers and the Auglaize County Prosecutor’s Office.

SR364 was blocked off for a period of four hours, as the residence sat very close to the roadway and vehicles used in the investigation had to be parked on the roadway during the time of the Search Warrant. The Ohio Department of Transportation assisted with the placement of barricades at intersections during this time.

The investigation into the matter continues.

Industrial Accident Death At CAPT

The initial investigation indicated that the victim, Mark A. Fennig, age 58, 321 Race Street, Van Wert, OH, was a maintenance technician working on a water passage machine. It is unclear at this point exactly how Fennig became tangled in the machine, but his hard hat was knocked off and he had visible head trauma.

Celina EMS transported Fennig to Joint Township District Memorial Hospital in St. Mary's where Fennig was pronounced dead on arrival. Deputies contacted OSHA who is expected on the scene this evening to investigate.

Celina Manor Honored for Employee Retention

According to Lisa Chalk, administrator at Celina Manor, “employee retention is one of the unique characteristics of Celina Manor which results in the outstanding level of quality of care that is provided to the residents. We are honored to have such a dedicated team of care providers.”

Celina Manor took fifth place out of 25 HCF Care Communities in employee retention and was acknowledged with a special award honoring the achievement. Celina Manor’s overall annual turnover rate for 2009 was just 19%. Compare this rate to the following, “The annualized turnover rate is found to be the highest among certified nursing assistants at 74.5%, followed by registered nurses at 56.1%, and licensed practical nurses at 51.0%. National retention rates reveal that between 62.5% and 67.3% of nurses have been employed at the same organization for more than one year,” according to the Journal of Applied Gerontology.

Celina Manor has been serving the community for over 31 years with excellent and innovative rehabilitative and skilled nursing services.

Generous Gift From Crown Equipment Corporation Provides Assistance to Lake Campus Students

CELINA, OH – Katy Dicke, third from left, Western Ohio Educational Foundation (WOEF) Board Member and representative of the James F. Dicke family, offers her congratulations to the winners of the Crown Scholarships, which provide full tuition to select Wright State University-Lake Campus students each year. Sharing their appreciation of these awards with Mrs. Dicke are pictured, from left to right: Sandy Gilbert, WOEF Scholarship Coordinator; Dylan Correll, Celina; Katy Dicke, Crown and WOEF Board Member; Joanna Zwiep, New Bremen; Betsy Tobe, Ft. Recovery; Laura Anderson, Secretary to Jim Dicke and former Crown Scholarship winner, Elizabeth Lennartz, Ft. Recovery and Lake Campus Dean Jim Sayer.

For more information, please contact WOEF Scholarship Coordinator Sandy Gilbert at sandy.gilbert@wright.edu or 419-586-0376.

For the Love of Hospice “April in Paris”

L to R: Sandy Mathews, Event Chair and Karen Ryals, Executive Director of the JTD Hospital Foundation.

On Thursday, April 22, Grand Lake Hospice will hold its annual benefit “For the Love of Hospice” at Romer’s in Celina. The event promises to be both exciting and inspiring with entertainment and Keynote Speaker Cea Cohen Elliott. Dinner will be served at 6:00, with both a silent and live auction to follow.

Thank you for giving us the opportunity to share the choices of sponsorships we offer for individuals, small, and large businesses. Our second annual benefit for Grand Lake Hospice is intended to create awareness and to raise funds. Grand Lake Hospice serves patients and families throughout Mercer, Auglaize, and surrounding counties.

“For the Love of Hospice” helps provide additional funds needed for care and services. Grand Lake Hospice just recently celebrated its second anniversary of caring and comforting families in our area. Your help ensures continuity of that care. Please join us in helping this loving cause.

Multiple Incidents

CLICK HERE - CELINA CITY BOARD OF EDUCATION BOARD AGENDA FEBRUARY 16, 2010

CLICK HERE - Small company in western Ohio garners international attention

Business-Education Collaborative – Among the partnership team are (left to right, seated) Julie Schosker, Tri Star recruitment and placement coordinator; Jerry Meyer, Coldwater president; Vic Belna, technical development manager; and (left and right, standing) Rob Menker, Tri Star teacher; and Tim Buschur, Tri Star career-technical education director.

Celina Man Is Facing Felony Charges

A 9-1-1 call was placed from Schindler’s home at 2:51PM last Friday. The caller stated there was a baby having trouble breathing. Celina Police officers were passing by the home at the time of the call and stopped to assist. The baby was transported to Mercer Health in Coldwater where the emergency room examination and treatment revealed signs of shaken baby syndrome. Further investigation led to Schindler’s arrest late Friday night. Schindler lives at the Livingston Street address with the baby’s mother, (Allison Nichols) and three year old brother. There are no indications that other family members were involved in the injuries to the child.

The child, Zachery Nichols, (2 months), was transferred to Children’s Medical Center in Dayton. He is listed in critical by stable condition and has shown slight signs of improvement.

Schindler appeared in Celina Municipal Court on Monday and was ordered held on the $500,000 bond, which is subject to a 10% posting. A preliminary hearing has been schedule in Celina Municipal Court on Tuesday, 02-16-10.

Formal Charges In Arson Fire

Bridge Closing

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

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Parkinson Support Group Offered

For more information on the support group, please contact Pattie Bailey at 419-394-3335, ext. 2619 or Michelle Evans at 419-394-8252.

STROKE SUPPORT GROUP OFFERED AT JOINT TOWNSHIP DISTRICT MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

This group will be helping patients, families, and caregivers to understand multiple components of strokes/brain injuries such as: prevention, nutrition, physical/emotional effects, rehab needs, wellness, depression, and motivation.

For any information regarding the stroke support meeting, please call Anne Larger, Community Outreach Coordinator, at 419-394-3335, ext. 1128.

Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities

Informational Evening With Beth Gehret

Win a Corvette

The Corvette will be on display at Plaza Lanes in Celina on March 14, 2010 from 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm. and at Olympic Lanes in Van Wert on March 21, 2010 from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm. You will be able to purchase your Corvette tickets inside the bowling alley while the Corvette is on display there. The tickets are also for sale at the Big Brothers Big Sisters office, which is located at 204 E. Spring St. in St. Marys. This is a great way for you to get the Corvette of your dreams while helping a great organization. The drawing for the winning ticket will be June 26th at the Festival of Wheels Car Show at Bluffton University. You need not be present to win.

If you have any questions or would like more information, feel free to contact Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mercer, Auglaize, and Van Wert. Our phone number is 419-394-2990 or 1-866-670-BBBS, and our e-mail is bbbs123@earthlink.net. All proceeds benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mercer, Auglaize, and Van Wert Counties.

March Meetings Set for Relay for Life of Mercer County

Stateline Writers Will Reconvene Again with March Meeting

The group’s Christmas meeting was held in December at the home of member Margaret Goodwin. Gifts were exchanged, and members brought a dessert or snack.

Meetings are regularly held on the 3rd Saturdays of each month at 10 a.m. at the Celina Mercer County Library except for the winter months of January and February. Interested persons are sincerely invited and encouraged to attend. Anyone having questions may call secretary Gretchen Bollenbacher at 419-363-2692.

Midwest Electric to sponsor Campaign Academy

The Campaign Academy was created jointly by OREC and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association to help individuals seeking public office to sharpen their political skills and prepare for the rigors of the campaign trail whether it be for local school board, city council, county office, state, or federal office.

The school is open to candidates of any political party and will feature seasoned campaign veterans and professionals focusing on the following core areas: fundraising, campaign strategy, message development and communication skills. Attendees will also learn about campaign rules and regulations from the Ohio Secretary of State’s office.

There will be a $25 charge for attending the Campaign Academy, which will include lunch. To register or receive more information, contact Marc Armstrong at (614) 430-7864 or via e-mail at marmstrong@buckeyepower.com.

Bowl For Kids’ Sake

Big Brothers Big Sisters Of Mercer Auglaize & Van Wert Counties

Individuals can participate by forming a five member team consisting of friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers. Each team member must raise $40 in donations in order to bowl and receive a free t-shirt. Many area businesses sponsor a 5-person team from their place of business. The cost of a business team sponsorship is $300. These businesses receive special recognition on the day of the event. Team packets are available by calling the BBBS office or you pick one up at any participating bowling alley.

There will be contests, prizes, and activities celebrating a “Sports Rally Tailgate Party” theme. The best part is you don’t have to be a good bowler to win the prizes!!! The grand prize this year is two airline tickets to anywhere in the continental U.S. (valued at $1000) donated by AirTran Airways. Some other prizes include overnight stays, restaurant gift certificates, shopping gift certificates, and lots more!

The proceeds from the Bowl for Kids’ Sake events go directly to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mercer, Auglaize and Van Wert Counties to help local youth. BFKS is fun for everyone. So …..Roll up your sleeves and put your game face on for some fun at the Bowling alley on March 14th or March 21st. Sign your team up today to support your local children by calling the BBBS office at 419-394-2990 or stop by any participating bowling alley for an information packet. You can also visit the BBBS web page at www.BBBSMA.com.

Crescent Players present Meredith Willson's "The Music Man"

Mercer County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society

Law Day Essay Contest

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

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

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

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

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

SCHOLARSHIP ANNOUNCED

To be eligible for the scholarship, the individual must be a high school senior, current college student or adult returning to school who is a resident of Auglaize or Mercer counties or graduate of a high school in those counties. A limited number of scholarships are available. Joint Township Hospital and Grand Lake Health System employees are not eligible. Final applicants will be chosen and must be available for interview on Saturday, June 12 between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 noon.

Applications may be received by contacting the JTD Hospital Foundation at (419) 394-3335, ext. 3574. It must be completed and returned by April 23, 2010. The Foundation is the fund raising arm of Joint Township District Memorial Hospital and the Grand Lake Health System.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

		
Karen M. Ryals, CFRE
Executive Director
JTD Hospital Foundation
200 St. Clair Street
St. Marys, OH 45885
(419) 394-3335, ext. 3574

Lake Campus Business Enterprise Center Winter Non-Credit Course Schedule

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

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

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

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

You can also access this schedule at www.wright.edu/lake/prospective/work.html.

Lakefield Airport Authority Board Meetings for 2010

     
April 12
May 10   
June 14 
July 12  
August 9   
September 13   
October 11
November 8                             
December 13                   

Grand Lake Toastmasters Calendar of Events

Contact Information:  
Ray Kramer, DTM -  (419) 394-5775
Janet Bassitt, ASC/CL- (419) 738-7539
Elaine Ahrns – (419) 629-2703

American Red Cross Blood Mobile Schedule for Mercer County

Saturday, March 6th at Burkettsville Shelter House 8am-12 noon
Monday, March 8th at Coldwater American Legion 12 noon-6 pm
Wednesday, March 24th at St Henry American Legion 12:30pm-6:30pm

Health & Safety Classes
Tuesday, March 16th Child & Infant CPR 6-10pm
Thursday, March 25th Adult CPR 6p-9:30p
Saturday, March 27th First Aid 9am-12:30pm

Just Added to the OUTLOOK

CLICK HERE - Outlook SPORTS SECTION

The Mercer County Outlook Stock Market Update

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