Shots Fired In Rockford

Rockford, OH - Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced the arrest of Thurman Whitted, Jr, age 58, Bridge Street, Rockford, OH after receiving a call of shots fired this morning. Whitted is being held in the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility awaiting formal charges.

At 6:31 AM, today, the Sheriff’s Office dispatch center received a call of shots fired at 310 N. Franklin Street, Rockford. Deputies and the Rockford Police Chief, Paul May responded to the area to investigate.

The investigation revealed that Whitted and his girlfriend were having a domestic dispute. Whitted then entered the bedroom of the home and fired one round from a handgun. He was alone in the bedroom at the time. The girlfriend and her adult daughter then fled the residence and called the Sheriff’s Office. Whitted reportedly had a .45 caliber handgun and rifles in the residence.

Sheriff’s deputies surrounded the residence and attempted to make contact with Whitted. The victims stated that he had pulled the landline phone out of the wall in the residence, but he did have two cell phones. Several attempts were made to call the cell phones. Whitted did not answer the phones.

Deputies then tried to make contact by the public address system from the cruisers and by operating their sirens and air horns. Whitted did not respond. A family member was contacted and was unable to make contact also.

The Sheriff’s Office then requested assistance from the Auglaize County Sheriff’s Office S.W.A.T. team. While the SWAT team was enroute, more attempts to contact Whitted were unsuccessful. Once the SWAT team arrived and was briefed they approached the house to attempt contact. At 11:05 AM, the family member was finally successful at contacting Whitted. At that point he agreed to surrender and exit the residence.

Whitted exited the residence, but refused to comply with orders to keep his hands up and in view. When Whitted started to put his hands down near his pockets, SWAT team members took him to the ground where he was handcuffed and taken into custody without further incident. Whitted did receive a minor injury to his face when he was taken to the ground. No deputies were injured.

Deputies then applied for and received a search warrant for the residence to look for firearms and other items of evidence.

Formal charges will be filed once the prosecutor’s office has the opportunity to review the case

CLICK HERE - Celina School Board Agenda - February 18, 2013

Board Highlights

New Chamber Member

Pictured is Steve & Missy Gehle with Chamber Director, Pam Buschur.

Steve Gehle, owner of Gehle Transport has joined the Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce. A family business for many years, Gehle Transport is located at 4940 St. Rt. 707 in Rockford.

Parkway FFA and FCCLA Hold Blood Drive

The Parkway FFA and FCCLA recently held their second blood drive of the school year on February 13th. In total, 71 people attempted to donate blood. 57 units were collected in all. The Parkway FFA and FCCLA would like to thank everyone for donating and hope to see you again next year!

Marion Local FFA Members Compete in Public Speaking

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

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. Kristen Hemmelgarn competed in the prepared contest. She wrote and delivered a speech on the farm bill. Rose Homan also competed in this same division writing a speech about her experiences on her family’s dairy farm. Both girls’ speeches had to be six to eight minutes in length, memorized, and they also had to answer questions on it. Both girls received gold ratings and Kristen earned the right to compete at the District Contest. 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 also received a gold rating.

More Mercer County Drug Arrests

Those arrested were:

Christopher L. Brockman, age 33, C/O Mercer County Adult Detention Facility, 6 Counts of Unlawful Purchase of Pseudoephedrine Product. (All Counts are Misdemeanors of the First Degree).

Christopher J. Steinbrunner, age 41, 2620 Sawmill Road Fort Recovery, Ohio, 2 Counts of Unlawful Purchase of Pseudoephedrine Product. (All Counts are Misdemeanors of the First Degree).

Elizabeth M. Craw, age 25, 101 Parkview Drive, Celina, Ohio, 1 Count of Unlawful Purchase of Pseudoephedrine Product. (Misdemeanor of the First Degree).

Joshua M. Wymer, age 29, 13517 St Route 49 New Weston, Ohio, 3 Counts of Unlawful Purchase of Pseudoephedrine Product. (All Counts are Misdemeanors of the First Degree).

Jason J. Bruggeman, age 31, 13517 St Route 49 New Weston, Ohio, 2 Counts of Unlawful Purchase of Pseudoephedrine Product. (All Counts are Misdemeanors of the First Degree).

Sheriff Grey Takes A Stand On Guns

(2-10-13) - I am definitely a believer in the second amendment and am a member of the National Rifle Association. I do NOT believe that there should be a ban on semi-automatic rifles (what some call incorrectly assault rifles) and I believe the Constitution prohibits the infringement upon my right and yours to have one, if we so choose. The second amendment was put in the Constitution so citizens could protect themselves from the government, if they needed to.

I believe we must take greater steps as a nation to help those with mental illness. I don't believe the help is available to some that need it most. I have reservations about saying the mentally ill should be forever barred from having a firearm. I certainly don't want a mentally ill person to have one, but I do believe one can recover from mental illness with proper treatment/care.

People who use firearms to facilitate crimes should be harshly punished. We must always remember, it is not the firearm that committed the crime, it is the user of the firearm.

I do NOT believe that I am answerable to the POTUS, I am answerable only to the citizens of Mercer County who elected me. Every 4 years they get the opportunity to decide if they want to keep me or fire me.

I do believe, however, that the Constitution of both Ohio and the United States does NOT give me the authority to interpret laws. That is called separation of powers, the legislative branch writes them, the executive branch executes them, and the judicial branch interprets them.

If I am to uphold my oath, I must follow the Constitutions that say the Supreme Court has the final word. Even many liberal members of the court have upheld the second amendment and I believe the court will continue to uphold it.

I didn't mention, I am a member of the executive branch, so is the POTUS. The POTUS doesn't have any more authority to write a law than I do, so he should leave it to congress to write the laws and the courts to interpret them. My own PERSONAL opinion is that he sometimes forgets there are limitations on all elected officials’ power, yes on the sheriff and also on the POTUS.

I doubt that the majority in Congress will vote to take away firearms. But if they do, let me make it crystal clear, the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office will not be confiscating firearms from law abiding citizens.

I believe citizens should contact not only their sheriff, but all elected officials at the local, state, and national level and let their voice be heard. Elected officials need to always remember who we work for...the citizens are the boss, not us. That is why it is disappointing when citizens don't exercise their right to vote. Elections really do have consequences.

above provided by Sheriff Grey to the OUTLOOK per our request

Speckshots Funds Art Portfolio Project at CHS

Don Speck, owner of Speckshots, at right, is shown next to CHS art teacher Lisa Brunswick, whose reflective portfolio project his donation will support. With them are CHS art students (from left) Michael Cron, Ashlee Langenkamp, Johna Walls and Peter Seffernick.

Don Speck of Speckshots is teaming up with CHAMP to sponsor a new project at Celina High School that will allow art students to create a digital portfolio of their work. Speck’s donation of $300 enables art teacher Lisa Brunswick to purchase digital cameras, tripods and other supplies to launch the “reflective portfolio” project at the school. Through the project, students will photograph the projects they complete in CHS art classes to create a digital record. This digital portfolio will help them and their teachers evaluate the work and see their progress from project to project, and over time. It will also create a portfolio for students who plan to continue their art education after high school.

Speck said that ever-changing technologies make it even more important to give students the tools they need to compete in today’s world, and into the future. “Teaming up with CHS is my way of giving back to area schools and communities,” he said.

“We hope this project will benefit many students now and in the future at Celina High School,” Brunswick said, and expressed her appreciation to Speck for his sponsorship. CHAMP, Celina High Academic and Motivational Promoters, is helping to facilitate the project.

Preferred Insurance Center is Proud to Announce Amanda Kremer as Newest Insurance Agent

Coldwater, OH – February 11th, 2013 – Preferred Insurance Center is happy to welcome Amanda Kremer as their newest insurance agent. Kremer, who is certified through Hondros College, will specialize in home, auto, farm, and commercial insurance for all existing and potential clients.

“We are absolutely thrilled to bring Amanda on as an integral part of our growing agency, and I am nothing short of ecstatic with the amount of service experience she will be bringing to our agency.” said principal owner Dan Muhlenkamp.

Kremer graduated from Coldwater High School and attended Franklin University in Columbus, Ohio, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing. Kremer previously worked as a Mortgage Office Coordinator/Manager for PNC Bank in Columbus, Ohio before joining Preferred Insurance Center where she will specialize in home, auto, farm, and commercial insurance. A Coldwater, Ohio native, Kremer now resides in Saint Henry, Ohio with her husband Riley and two sons Cy and Georg.

K9 Officer at Celina Kiwanis

Four Facing Felony Charges in Celina

Sams and Gillette

Sepulveda and Hatcher

Four suspects are facing felony charges in connection with a heroin purchase in a parking lot on N. Main St. on Thursday afternoon. Acting on a tip officers observed a female purchase suspected heroin from a subject in a parking lot south of the CVS Pharmacy around 12:50PM. As the two vehicles involved left the lot both were stopped. Zachary Sams, (06-04-89) had sold suspected heroin to a female was found to be the driver of the first car stopped. At that time he was found to be in possession of additional heroin. He is facing charges of drug trafficking and possession of heroin. He was taken into custody and held in the Mercer County Adult Detention Center.

The other vehicle had four occupants when it was stopped. They were separated and interviewed at the scene of the stop. The female that went to the Sams vehicle and purchased the heroin, Kristie Gillette, (04-15-94) returned to the other car and gave the heroin to a second female, Michelle Sepulveda, (02-26-71). Sepulveda and the third female in the car, Casey Hatcher (03-04-93), were reportedly purchasing the heroin to share between them. The vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation after it pulled onto Main St. During interviews with the occupants evidence of the drug transaction was confirmed. Gillette, Sepulveda, and Hatcher were taken from the scene to the Mercer County Adult Detention Center. At this time the driver of that second vehicle, David Thokey, appears to have only been serving as a means of transportation. He was charged with driving left of center and was released at the scene.

Sams, Gillette, Sepulveda and Hatcher all appeared in Celina Municipal Court Friday morning. Zachary Sams and Kristie Gillette have both been charged with Trafficking in Heroin, a felony of the fifth degree. Sepulveda and Hatcher have each been charged with possession of heroin, a felony of the fifth degree. Each have been ordered held in the Mercer County Adult Detention Center on a $50,000 bond. The Celina Police Department and Grand Lake Drug Task Force are continuing their investigation into the incident and additional charges may be filed. They were assisted with the initial traffic stops by the Mercer County Sheriffs Office.

LeJeune Files Petition for Celina City Council

Republican Fred LeJeune has filed a petition to run for Celina City Council as the Ward 2 Representative. “This is the first time I have ever pursued public office. I feel this is a personal calling to formally serve the citizens of Celina, beyond the volunteerism and financial support I have contributed to our community. I support Mayor Jeff Hazel’s strong leadership and the current administration’s “conservative agenda”! This includes, for example, assertively paying down city debt while simultaneously building up the newly created city street fund for improving our roads in the near future.”

By profession, Fred LeJeune is a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. He is currently the Chief Anesthetist at Lima Memorial Hospital, and additionally provides occasional vacation relief anesthesia coverage at Joint Township District Memorial Hospital. “I truly love my work. As an allied health professional, it is an awesome honor and privilege to serve people and make a positive difference!” He has been a full time practicing anesthesia provider in the local area since 2007, immediately after graduating with a MSN in Anesthesia from Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama.

Fred and his wife Marina chose to move to Celina in 2007, as the best place in the area to raise their two sons and have a home built! “I am dedicated to Celina for the long term! Having attended numerous Celina City Council meetings and Mercer County Republican Central Committee meetings over the past few years, I have been very engaged in local government as a concerned citizen.”

Fred LeJeune pledges to work smart and hard with fellow Celina City Council members and the Mayor, together as a leadership team, with the ultimate mission of returning Celina back to the national “Top 100 Small Cities” status!

National Head Start Association Winter Leadership Convention

Carol Schroyer, Director (left) and Michelle Self, Director of Early Childhood Services (right), attended the National Head Start Association Winter Leadership Convention in Washington DC at the end of January. Carol and Michelle, pictured with Senator Brown, spent the week at the convention and visited the offices of House Speaker Boehner and Congressman Latta, and met with Senator Sherrod Brown. Ms. Schroyer and Ms. Self had the opportunity to share the exciting happenings at Head Start in Mercer County! National Head Start Association is dedicated to addressing the issues that affect Head Start agencies across the Nation. They bring the voice of the Head Start community to the legislators. If you are interested in supporting Head Start, take action by following this link: www.supportheadstart.org

Mercer County and Grand Lake Joint Township Community Hospitals “Go Live” on HIE

West Central Ohio Wired Through CliniSync

Mercer County Community Hospital in Coldwater and Grand Lake Health System’s Joint Township District Memorial Hospital in St. Marys now are “live” on the statewide health information exchange – CliniSync.

They join other members of the West Central Health Information Exchange in committing to the regional and statewide sharing of electronic health records to improve patient care, including St. Rita’s Medical Center in Lima and Van Wert County Hospital in Van Wert. Lima Memorial Hospital also joined and is in the implementation stages.

Physicians in the area are directly receiving lab reports, test results and medical documents from the hospitals to their offices, making the sharing of information quicker and easier than traditional paper records. This is the first step in a growing process that will allow hospitals, physicians, labs and others involved in a patient’s care to exchange patient health information, no matter where they are located.

George C. Boyles, Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer, said, “Through the participation in the statewide HIE program, medical care providers will be able to access specific patient information to allow for enhanced and efficient patient treatment care.

“We, at Mercer Health, are excited about continuing to utilize technology to help assist with patient care. Securing innovative computer solutions, and working with physicians, other medical professionals, and nursing staff to care for the patient is essential to continued quality patient care.”

Mercer County Community Hospital is a part of the Mercer Health organization serving Mercer County and the surrounding areas. Mercer Health provides a continuum of healthcare services to the area through prevention, education, diagnostic, inpatient, home care, medical equipment, physician and other services. Additional information about Mercer Health and its services and eight locations throughout Mercer County can be found at www.mercer-health.com.

“Being part of a statewide health information exchange (HIE) is the next step in providing quality care for our patients,” said Lori Miller, Chief Information Officer of the Grand Lake Health System. “HIE facilitates continuity of care by supporting the efforts of physicians with timely and efficient access to medical information from several facilities. HIE is a great tool to assist providers so their time can be spent focusing on the care of the patient.”

Joint Township District Memorial Hospital is the anchor of the Grand Lake Health System and is a full-service, comprehensive care hospital serving Auglaize, Mercer and surrounding counties.

The Grand Lake Health System is comprised of Joint Township District Memorial Hospital, Grand Lake Home Health, Grand Lake Hospice and numerous physician practices and Centers of Excellence. Additional information can be found at grandlakehealth.org.

To date, 71 hospitals across Ohio have contracted for CliniSync’s services and 21 are live. More than 1,000 physicians also signed up to receive exchange services, with more than 500 already getting results and reports from their local hospitals. Eventually, CliniSync participants will be able to share information statewide so doctors will have a complete picture of a patient’s health from other providers. While some health systems in Ohio share data and information within their own facilities, CliniSync allows the sharing of information from providers outside their own health system.

Dan Paoletti, Chief Executive Officer of the Ohio Health Information Partnership, which manages CliniSync, said West Central Ohio leads the way in community-based collaboration. The region jump started CliniSync when St. Rita’s went live in December 2010.

“When we first started to implement CliniSync, West Central Ohio stepped right up to begin to fulfill a vision of interoperability and exchange that they had already envisioned,” Paoletti said. “These hospitals have worked hand-in-hand with our staff to go through a new technological process that will result in more timely and coordinated care for patients in their communities. Our thanks to Mercer County and Grand Lake for making that vision a reality for the entire region.”

A federal grant of $14.8 million from the Office of the National Coordinator for HIT to the Ohio Health Information Partnership enabled the creation of the CliniSync technological structure and initial implementation. In addition, more than 6,500 Ohio primary care physicians signed up to use electronic health records through similar grant funding last year. The movement toward exchanging health records is occurring in states throughout the nation.

In Ohio, physicians can receive free software that allows them to send direct, encrypted emails, to manage referrals, and to receive both transcribed reports and test results. Information being exchanged includes: registration information (admission notice, discharge notice, transfer notice), transcriptions (clinical and textual, discharge summaries, cardiology reports), and lab results (general chemistry, microbiology, pathology and blood bank.)

25 Years in Business in Rockford

Rockford Chamber President Jane Cozad congratulates Barrys Family Market for 25 Years in Business.

DRUG TASK FORCE INVESTIGATION RESULTS IN ARRESTS

The arrests were the result of a 6 month investigation. All arrested were transported to the Auglaize County Correctional Facility.

Those arrested involve sales of Heroin and Marijuana.

Arrested were:

Adam Roberts, 23, St. Marys.  
3 counts trafficking in marijuana, 
1 count trafficking in heroin.

Mitchell Newbauer, 20, St. Marys. 
2 counts trafficking in marijuana.

Josh Cox, 30, St. Marys.  
5 counts trafficking in heroin.

Julia Beckett, 24, St. Marys.  
2 counts trafficking in heroin.

Codie Shirk, 22, St. Marys.  
3 counts trafficking in heroin.

Lonnie Spence, 22, Celina.  1 
Count trafficking in heroin, 
1 count trafficking in marijuana.

Justin Rogers, 29, Wapakoneta.  
3 Counts trafficking in marijuana.

Marion Local FFA members start Mentor program with 1st Graders

Marion Local FFA member, Meg Schwieterman, works with a group of 1st graders on an activity about which foods contain milk and which foods don’t.

The Animal, Health, Nutrition and Reproduction class has created a partnership with the 1st graders at Marion Local Elementary. The partnership is part of the National FFA’s PALS program, which stands for Partners in Active Learning Support. This is a National FFA Program in which high school students teach elementary students about agriculture. The program was designed to allow the younger members of the community to interact with positive role models while learning about agriculture. The class plans to visit the first grade classrooms each month with a different lesson. December focused on the dairy cow teaching the students about what a cow eats and drinks and what products contain milk. The lesson ended with the students enjoying milk and ice cream. The experience was positive for all students involved and the class is already busy working on the lessons for the upcoming months.

Mayor Speaks to Celina Kiwanis

Drug Bust In Celina

The Celina Police Department and Grand Lake Drug Task Force combined forces to serve a search warrant upon a residence located at 813 Greenbriar Court on Thursday afternoon. Contact was initially made at the home in response to a tip from an outside law enforcement agency. That agency had received information that there may be stolen property inside the home, and forwarded the details to the Mercer County Office of the Grand Lake Drug Task Force. Contact was made with a resident, who admitted that a cash box taken from a Versailles business during a break-in, was in the home. Based upon the information obtained, a search warrant for the premises was requested and issued through Celina Municipal Court. Upon service of that warrant officers located the cash box, some drug paraphernalia and approximately 500 grams of marijuana. The street value of the drug would be around $2500.

Chad W. Ackley, 32, 813 Greenbriar Court, Celina, was taken into custody and is being held in the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility on a preliminary charge of Receiving Stolen Property. The Celina Police Department is continuing the investigation into the Breaking & Entering conjunction with Versailles Police Department. The Grand Lake Drug Task Force will be expanding its investigation into the drugs that were found at the scene.

Midwest Electric members donate $13,550 to area causes

Since the program began in 1998, the Midwest Electric Community Connection Fund has provided $741,513 to 564 area projects.

The recent Fund recipients include the following:

• Mendon-Union Fire Department, $2,000 to buy 
additional fire hose for a new fire truck.
• Safe Harbor Homeless and Runaway Youth Shelter, 
Lima, $1,500 for a new air conditioning unit.
• Auglaize County ESC Preschool, $1,500 for 
iPads and educational apps.
• Celina City Schools, $1,500 
for iPads and educational apps for the English 
Language Learner department.
• Ft. Recovery Elementary School, $1,500 for 
a math computer program for intervention students.
• Family Life Center of Auglaize County, $1,000 
for ultrasound supplies.
• Auglaize County Council on Aging, $1,000 
for weather alert radios for area elderly.
• Mercer County ESC, $1,000 
for iPads and educational apps.
• Parkway Local Schools, $750 
for books for special education students.
• Bath Township Fire Department, $750 
for a laptop computer.
• Auglaize County ESC, $500 
for communication devices for the autism unit.
• Challenged Champions Equestrian Center, Ottawa, $300 
for a sound system for the indoor arena.
• Waynestock Christian Concert, St. Marys, $250 
to help with concert.
 

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.

Hometown Healthcare’s Impact on Local Economy and Local Way of Life

“Hometown Healthcare is important for so many reasons,” states Mindy Kremer, Marketing Coordinator at Mercer Health. “Not only does Mercer Health provide local accessibility to quality healthcare for our community but it also provides for nearly 600 local jobs and supports a multitude of other local businesses through the purchase of goods and services.”

Kremer continues, “As a hometown healthcare provider, we are devoted to providing quality healthcare services from inpatient care to education, prevention and outreach services. But, our greatest honor is providing for our community’s way of life. We want to thank the community for allowing us to care and provide for them for the past 60 plus years and we have a commitment to continue that tradition in the future.”

Mercer Health’s role as a healthcare leader is evidenced in the summation of care provided in the past year, including:

·346 Births
·1,913 Inpatient Admissions
·10,518 Emergency Room Visit
·4,429 Surgical Procedures
·3,686 Home Care Visits
·75 Physicians, including the establishment of 3 new physicians
·600 Employees
·Over 4,000 Community Members served at Community Outreach events
 

Auglaize County SHERIFF WARNS RESIDENTS OF ISSUES WITH EXPLODING RIFLE TARGETS

The Sheriff’s Office has had complaints recently from county residents regarding the use of exploding targets. These targets are legally purchased at shooting supply stores. When shot with a certain caliber these targets are designed to explode.

What we have discovered recently is target shooters are purchasing the mixture and mixing large amounts to make a huge explosion. Some reports claim the explosion has rattled windows in nearby homes.

Responding to complaints and numerous questions throughout the county Sheriff Solomon has discovered there are no laws in effect for possessing or discharging the product. However, in some cases the Sheriff’s Office is going to look into charging the persons with disorderly conduct.

Sheriff Solomon explained, “We can not have county residents in their home being startled by a loud explosion. They don’t know that it is Tannerite being set off. They also should not have to tolerate the windows in their home being rattled or debris from an explosion hitting their home”. Solomon added that he is in no way against shooting and hunting but there are limits. Even some gun clubs in the county do not want this product being discharged at their ranges. In large amounts it can cause craters in the ground or damage back stops designed for bullets, not bombs.

Solomon is not certain on the future of this product. I feel that it will be illegal to buy at some point due to the problems it is causing. If not illegal it will be limited on the amount you can buy. Right now it is available by the pound. One pound causes a huge explosion when detonated. The Sheriff’s Office even checked with the A.T.F. to make sure there wasn’t a violation. A.T.F. reported Tannerite is legal to posses and shoot.

The Sherriff’s Office has not received any reports on injuries regarding this product but Solomon feels it is a matter of time. “Anytime you deal with an explosive there is a potential for injury. This explosive you can buy in large enough quantities to shake the ground. Again I am in no way against guns, shooting and hunting but this product is becoming an issue and I feel people need to be warned a head of time of the actions we will be taking”.

All cases will be looked at individually but all will be looked at. If this product being detonated caused an issue we are going to look at sending the case to the Prosecutor for review for charges.

Sheriff Solomon is only trying to warn residents of the issues and what he sees as a problem. With the issues the United States has with school violence and terrorism we do not need explosions going off and people wondering what it was that blew up.

Local Food Pantry Accepting Donations at Rockford Belle Entertainment Venue

Just now, the pantry is in need of peanut butter, pasta sauce, canned fruit, canned vegetables, toilet paper, paper towels, and paper products.

Now through July of this year, patrons and community members are encouraged to bring a donated food item when attending concerts and place it in the collection basket in the entranceway of the Rockford Belle located at 135 Market Street, Rockford, Ohio. Monetary contributions in support of the food pantry should be made out to the Parkway Ministerial Association. For more information, call 419-363-3230. For concert event information, find The Rockford Belle on Facebook. The Parkway Ministerial Association appreciates your donation.

Donna Grube Speaks to Celina Kiwanis

MED Foundation of Mercer Health hosts Olympic Gold Medalist and awards local couple at Annual Dinner

Kayla Harrison

Kayla Harrison, 2012 Olympic Gold Medal Winner in Judo spoke during the Friends of the MED Foundation Annual Dinner held on January 13th at the Galleria in Celina. Kayla made history at the 2012 Olympic Games in London by winning the first Gold Medal by any American (man or woman) in the history of the sport of judo. Her victory marks another step in a career characterized by success at the sport’s highest levels. Kayla’s judo career has been undeniably impressive. However, it is her perseverance through incredible personal struggles that is truly inspiring.

At the age of six, Kayla began training to become an Olympian. As Kayla grew and became better in the sport, she attended numerous Judo events around the United States. At 13 she entered Junior Olympic events and won numerous matches. It was during this time that her coach began to sexually molest her. It wasn’t until three years later that Kayla told her mother and began her journey of healing.

“Kayla’s story is inspiring. The story of her perseverance through the ups and downs of her career was remarkable. It was wonderful to have an Olympic athlete at our event,” shared John Hoying, MED Foundation Director.

Francis and Joan Pax

Also during the dinner, Francis and Joan Pax were recognized and received the Outstanding Friend award from the MED Foundation. The Outstanding Friend award is given to a person, business or organization that provided outstanding support to the Foundation or Mercer Health during the year. John Hoying, Development Director commented, “Francis and Joan have been outstanding supporters of the MED Foundation and Mercer Health for many years. We are pleased to be able to recognize them today for their generosity and guidance.”

The “Friends of the MED Foundation” provide annual financial support to the MED Foundation to support projects at Mercer Health. If you would like to know more about the organization, please contact John Hoying at 419-678-5679.

Grant money purchases New Life Care Ambulance Cot and Vital Signs Monitor for Mercer Health ER

Pictured with the new Emergency Room equipment is Amy Nietfeld, left, and Cheryl Niekamp, Registered Nurses at Mercer Health.

New Life Care Ambulance Cot and Vital Signs Monitor were recently purchased by Mercer Health through a grant provided by the Mercer Health Care Fund managed by the Mercer County Civic Foundation.

The Stryker Power-Pro XT Life Care Ambulance Cot allows the EMT staff to transport individuals up to 700 lbs. and offers flexibility of back rest support for individuals who have specific needs or injuries. Along with the added benefits afforded to the patient, the Pro-XT offers the EMT staff relief from repetitive lifting and carrying during the transporting of patients and the new cot is designed to reduce spinal loading, resulting in reduced injuries.

The Welch Allyn Vital Sign monitor provides wireless connectivity for tracking and transmitting patient records. The software, included with the Welch Allyn Vital Signs monitor, offers a complete end-to-end solution for vitals capture and documentation that was designed specifically for medical applications.

The support from the Mercer Health Care Fund and the Mercer County Civic Foundation allows the hospital ambulance staff to provide care to all residents who need transport services and the use of the new Vital Sign monitor provides the needed information to care for the patient while being transported to the hospital.

CLICK HERE - Mercer County Engineer 2012 Annual Report

Midwest Electric hires Grieves and Goettemoeller as apprentice linemen

Grieves, of Botkins, previously was a supervisor, welder, equipment operator and laborer at BEEM Construction. He is a graduate of Botkins High School, and also has a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) in addition to certifications in diesel mechanics, welding and forklift operation.

Goettemoeller, of St. Henry, has worked on the family farm the past 12 years in addition to local positions in heating and cooling, electrical and construction. He is a graduate of St. Henry High School and completed courses at Wright State University – Lake Campus as well as Marion Tech-COLT. Goettemoeller also has a CDL.

City Law Director at Celina Kiwanis

Tri Star Med Prep Students Garner Scholarships

In the picture attached are: Front row (left to right): Tessa Quinter, Brook Smith, Alyssa Homan Back row (left to right): Megan Muhlenkamp, Elizabeth Hogg, Elle Schoenherr, and Brittney Umstead

Tri Star Med Prep Instructor, Janet Nelson, announced that seven of her senior Med Prep students have received college scholarships. The amount of the scholarships and awards accumulated thus far total approximately $72,300. Two students, Elizabeth Hogg and Brook Smith, took specific testing for the Colleges of Business, Occupational Professions, and Health Professions at the University of Northwestern Ohio in order to receive their scholarships. The pair placed first and third respectively. The other student’s scholarships are based on their high school GPA and ACT scores. Students and their scholarships include:

Elizabeth Hogg –Senior Northwestern Business Scholarship to the University of Northwestern Ohio (UNOH) – first place full tuition. She plans to major in Medical Assisting.

Alyssa Homan – Shawnee State President’s Scholarship. Alyssa will major in physical therapy assisting.

Megan Muhlenkamp – Capitol University’s Presidential Scholarship and CAP Grant Award. Megan plans to become a registered nurse.

Tessa Quinter – Xavier University’s Dean’s Award and Rocket Award. Tessa plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

Elle Schoenherr - University of St. Francis Dean’s Scholarship. Elle plans to become a registered nurse.

Brook Smith – Merit Scholar Award to Otterbein University. Senior Northwestern Business Scholarship to the University of Northwestern Ohio – third place scholarship. She plans to major in nursing at Otterbein.

Brittney Umstead – Rhodes State College’s Tech Prep Scholarship. Brittany plans to major in dental hygiene.

Ft. Recovery FFA Holds “Canning Hunger Campaign”

Pictured L-R are members of the Fort Recovery FFA sophomore class that helped to plan and organize the "Canning Hunger Campaign" that collected over 2,450 no-perishable items for the local food banks. Eli Koesters, Austing Kahlig, Jason Hein, Dustin Overman, Chad Tobe, Andrew Sudhoff, Dillion Whitacre, Debra Link, Sam Huelskamp, Neil Link, David Dirksen, Zach Tobe, and Ryan 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 2,450 canned good and non-perishable items where collected. Congratulations to Mr. Evers’s class for winning the competition by collecting 50 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.

Retired Celina Canine Officer NICK Passes Away

Members of the Celina Police Department were saddened to learn this morning that retired Canine Officer NICK, the Celina Police Department’s first canine officer passed away from natural causes overnight. Nick was born in Germany on June 05, 1999. He became a member of the Celina Police Department in September of 2000. His first experience in Celina, even before training, was to visit Celina Intermediate School, where he met with students, including fifth grade DARE students, who eventually chose his American name, NICK. Students picked the name in honor of their DARE instructor at the time, Deputy Nick Schulze.

Canine Officer NICK served the Celina Police Department for ten years, a phenomenal career for a police canine. The majority of canine officers serve for five to eight years. His long career is attributed to a consistent training program he participated in with his handler Ptl. Dan Harting. During his ten year career his search and tracking abilities led to dozens of apprehensions. The last three months of his tenure NICK served as a mentor for Canine Officer TED, who was obtained by the Celina Police Department as his replacement. One of the key elements TED was able to learn from NICK was his social skills and his love of children.

NICK’s last public appearance was at the Ultimate After-School Party on June 01, 2010. Since that time he has lived with his former handler as a family pet. He was less active during retirement and had shown signs of fatigue over the last couple of days. He passed away in his sleep early this morning.

CLICK HERE - Wangler asks Ohio Supreme Court to hear murder appeal

Ft. Recovery FFA Announces Top Fruit Sellers

FT. RECOVERY, OH - Recently, the Ft. Recovery FFA chapter completed its annual fruit sale selling over 750 cases of fruit. Peanuts and fruit baskets were also sold. The top three overall sellers were first, Alex Stammen, second, Ray Siefring, and third, Amy Timmerman. The top sellers in each class were; 1st period, Alex Timmerman; 2nd period, Maleia Fullenkamp; 3rd period, Zach Tobe; 4th period, Jessica Kaiser; 5th period, Claire Pottkotter; 6th period, Isaac Siegrist; and 7th period, Jamieson Hess and Mitch Lennartz; 8th period, Jacob Siefring. The Ft. Recovery FFA Chapter would like to thank everyone that purchased and helped out with the fundraiser.

New Chamber Member

Pictured (left to right): Pam Buschur, Chamber Director and Linda May

Linda May of Linda May Realty has joined the Celina Mercer County Chamber of Commerce in Celina. With five years experience in commercial, industrial, and residential real estate; an undergraduate degree in business and over 25 years of experience in the corporate world, Linda can work in any area of the real estate market.

You may contact Linda at 419 305-3986 or visit www.lindamayrealty.com.

Celina Bulldog Hall of Fame Inductions

1-12-13 - Last night at the Celina Fieldhouse 3 new members were inducted into the Bulldog Hall of Fame - (L to R) Joe Westerfield, Nate Schreffler and Amy Schreffler.

CLICK HERE - Pictures of the Ceremonyy

CLICK HERE - Video of introduction of the 1972 Boys Basketball Team

RECORDER WARNS OF POTENTIAL DEED SOLICATIONS

According to King, “Many people are unaware that they can receive copies of deeds, mortgages, and other property documents from the local Recorder’s office for a nominal fee.” The purpose of a real estate deed is to provide proof of land ownership. If a homeowner is unable to locate their deed, there is no need for them to worry, since a copy is filed in the Recorder’s office in the county where the property is located.

King would like to inform residents that they typically can obtain a paper certified copy of their deed from her office for approximately $5.00. (The Ohio Revised Code requires the County Recorder to charge $2 per page of the deed and $1 for the document certification.) Document information is also available on-line for free by visiting the Mercer County Recorder’s website at: wwww.mercercounty.org/recorder.

If residents have additional questions please contact Mercer County Recorder Angie King at (419)586-4232 or via email recorder@mercercountyohio.org.

Bridge Inspection

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

Celina Woman Held on a $350,000 Bond

Angela and Brandon

A Celina woman is being held on a $350,000 bond after being charged with Obstructing Official Business for harboring her husband, who was the subject of a felony warrant. On Thursday, 12-27-13, Angela Bradley, (24), 229 E. Fulton Street, Celina, was found at the Celina Motel in a room that she had registered and paid for. Her husband Brandon Bradley was the subject of an active felony warrant held by the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office. He was found with her in the room. Angela Bradley had been questioned by the police earlier in the week about her husband’s whereabouts and was aware of the active warrant. Both subjects were taken into custody. Brandon Bradley was turned over to the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office.

At the time of her arrest on the Obstruction charge, Angela Bradley was found to be in possession of credit cards, a blank check, identification cards, social security card and other identification information belonging to Paul Billerman. She is employed by BIllerman as a housekeeper. Upon identifying these items, Billerman stated he did not give them to her or give her permission to take them. Angela Bradley has been charged with four counts of misdemeanor theft in connection with the property belonging to Paul Billerman. Angela Bradley did have property belonging to other individuals who have not been located yet. The investigation is continuing and additional charges may be filed. She remains in the Mercer County Adult Detention Facility at this time.

Two Celina Men Facing Multiple Charges

Both subjects were taken into custody on trespassing charges. They were incarcerated, but did bond out later that day. Both are facing charges of trespassing (M-4), Theft (M-1), and Criminal Damaging (M-2). The investigation is continuing and additional charges may be filed.

Mercer Health’s New Year’s Baby arrives on January 3rd

Pictured with her parents, Amanda and Craig Muhlenkamp of Bryant, Indiana is Mercer Health’s New Year’s Baby for 2013, Charlotte Muhlenkamp. Charlotte, born on January 3, 2013, was the recipient of a Sherpa blanket and $100 gift certificate to the Celina-Mercer County Chamber of Commerce.

UPDATED at 339pm - Rockford Murder Suspect Arrested In Ft. Wayne

Celina, OH – (1-2-13) - Mercer County Sheriff Jeff Grey announced the capture of Daniel Charles Martin, age 40 in Fort Wayne, IN. Martin was wanted for the November 8, 2012, murder of Melinda Shinn, age 26, in Rockford, OH.

The Sheriff’s Office was requested to investigate the homicide by the Rockford Police Department. Martin had fled the area after the incident. An arrest warrant for Martin was issued on November 8 and a subsequent Mercer County Grand Jury issued an indictment during the December term.

On November 9, 2012, the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office requested the assistance of the United States Marshal’s Service in locating Martin. For the past several days, deputy U.S. Marshals and Mercer County Sheriff’s Deputies have been tracking Martin. This morning Deputy Marshals and Mercer County Detectives hit the home Martin was staying in. Found in the home was an AK 47 assault rifle, which was seized. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms is investigating the ownership of the rife. Martin was taken into custody without further incident.

“We are very grateful for the US Marshal Service assistance,” stated Sheriff Grey, “without their help and unique tracking capabilities, we would still be looking for Mr. Martin. This is a great example of how federal and local agencies can and should work together.”

“This fugitive investigation was one of our top priorities and we immediately added Martin to our most wanted Dangerous Dozen list,” stated Northern District of Ohio Assistant Chief Deputy U.S. Marshal Andrew Deserto. “Thanks to the great teamwork with the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Marshals in Fort Wayne, we were able to safely bri

WIECHART SWORN IN AS COUNTY ENGINEER

Pictured are: Jerry Laffin - Mercer County Commissioner, Jim Wiechart – Mercer County Engineer, and James Wiechart – Jim Wiechart’s father

Mercer County Engineer Jim Wiechart was recently sworn in for the four year term commencing in 2013. Mercer County Commissioner Jerry Laffin administered the oath surrounded by family, friends and coworkers. The ceremony was held at the Mercer County Highway Garage. Wiechart stated, "I am both humbled and driven to do the best I can in public service over the next four years." Wiechart has worked in Mercer County since 1999 and has served as County Engineer since 2002. Since 2002 Wiechart has overseen 187 bridge projects and has been instrumental in Mercer County receiving $22,551,999.06 in Federal Highway Administration Funds.

Deer On Grand Lake

1-1-13 - The picture of the above deer took place on Grand Lake near Harbor Point at around 11 am. The deer was able to get out of this hole, but then took off again across the lake and may have fallen in again. 9-1-1 officials have been called and were trying to get in touch with the Game Warden.

Area residents should be advised of the poor ice conditions on the lake and always check with local authorities before considering any type of movement on the lake. As this photo provides there are presently open spaces on the lake.

photo provided by Tammy Barger

Several Mercer County Businesses Combine Efforts to Support a Local Charity

Coldwater, OH – December 26th, 2012 – In honor of the late Randy Griesdorn, seven Mercer County businesses came together to carry on the ‘Cash for Cans’ nonperishable food drive to benefit C.A.L.L. Food Pantry in Celina, Ohio.

On Wednesday, December 19, 2012, all of the participating retailers brought what they collected throughout the month-long food drive to Chief Supermarket in Coldwater, Ohio were all of the items were scanned to determine their dollar value. The seven businesses collected over $800 worth of food items, all of which will be distributed by C.A.L.L. Food Pantry to lower income families in Mercer County. Furthermore, all of the participating businesses donated the monetary value of the collected food items, resulting in over $800 in cash donations to go along with the $800 worth of canned goods that were collected.

Participating businesses in the Cash for Cans Food Drive are as follows:

Preferred Insurance Center
Complete Automotive Repair & Sales
Carriage Werkes
Lefeld Implement 
Jackson Garage
Huelsman Automotive 
Bud’s Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

WIECHART ELECTED AS TREASURER OF COUNTY ENGINEERS ASSOCIATION OF OHIO

Pictured are:Thomas Beck (CEAO former Treasurer, Richland County Engineer), Neil Tunison (CEAO Past President, Warren County Engineer), Matt Huffman, 4th District State Representative, Tim Piper (CEAO President, Allen County Engineer), Doug Davis (CEAO 2nd Vice President, Muskingum County Engineer), Bob Geuy (CEAO 1st Vice President, Shelby County Engineer), and Jim Wiechart (CEAO Treasurer, Mercer County Engineer)

Mercer County Engineer James (Jim) Wiechart was recently elected Treasurer of the County Engineers Association of Ohio for 2013. “This is a great opportunity to be engaged in statewide issues which affect county engineers in Ohio. Also, being involved helps support our statewide association while keeping Mercer County conscious of the prominence of issues which affect our constituents and county engineers.”

Ohio’s 88 county engineers by law are elected officials and are required to be professionally licensed in engineering and surveying. The County Engineers Association of Ohio (CEAO) has worked to unify its members in their goal to provide the highest quality transportation, drainage and surveying services. The County Engineers Association promotes the safe and efficient movement of people, goods and services and strives to construct solutions for many of the challenges to Ohio’s local infrastructure. The CEAO conducts training for county engineers and staff and administers funding for engineers through Ohio.

Matt Huffman, 4th District State Representative conducted the oath ceremony for the CEAO Officers.

Two Celina Residents Arrested For Breaking and Entering

Myers and Schaffer

Arrested this morning were Shannon K. Myers age 23 of 310 Jill Ave. Lot 209 Celina, Ohio, and Jordan M. Schaffer age 21 of the same address. Both subjects are being held and charged with breaking and entering, being a felony of the 5th degree.

Deputies applied for, and were granted search warrants for the residence at 310 Jill Ave. lot 209, and a 2005 Ford Ranger pickup truck deputies had impounded. Deputies executed the search warrants and several items that were reported stolen during the break-in were recovered. The case is currently being reviewed to determine if additional charges will be filed.

Sheriff Grey would like to thank the public for information received through the Sheriff’s Office tip line, and others who called into the Sheriff’s Office Detective Division. The information lead to the development of suspects, which lead to these arrests made this morning. Sheriff Grey also states the owners of Florence Livestock were very helpful throughout the investigation.

Sheriff Grey reminds citizens they can leave anonymous tips on the Sheriff’s Office Tip line, and at the Sheriff’s Office website.

Tip line: 567-890-TIPS (8477) Website: www.mercercountysheriff.org

Village of Rockford - Vacant Council Seat

The new member will be installed at the January 15th council meeting.

Stabbing Incident In Celina

HIBNER

Central Dispatched received a 9-1-1 call from a Shannon Farley at 02:39 AM who reported an ex- boyfriend was at her residence trying to get in. Ex-Boyfriend was identified as 21 year old Phillip William Hibner of 219 West South Street in Coldwater, Ohio. Farley reported Hibner forced his way into the residence and then got into an altercation with her current boyfriend Kelly R. Cheadle of Dayton, Ohio. During the altercation, Hibner cut Cheadle with what was described as a box cutting type knife/tool.

Cheadle was treated at Mercer Health for the wound. Hibner was found at his residence in Coldwater. Hibner was taken into custody and is currently being held in the Mercer County Detention Facility on Felonious Assault charges, currently Mr. Hibner is being held with $100,000.00 bond per Municipal Court Judge Scheer. The case is currently being reviewed for possible additional charges.

Christmas Donation

Shown in the photograph from left to right are: Commissioner Bob Nuding, Commissioner John Bruns, Engineer Jim Wiechart, Mary Beougher with Hospice the Caring Way, and Commissioner Jerry Laffin.

Instead of the usual gift exchange for the Christmas Season the Mercer County Engineer, the Mercer County Commissioners and their respective staffs have chosen to donate the money normally spent on gifts to charity. Hospice the Caring Way – Community Health Professionals of Celina was randomly chosen. They provide physical, emotional and spiritual care to the terminally-ill and their families in the comfort of their home, nursing home, or assisted living. A total of $255.00 was donated to them to use as needed. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everyone in Mercer County.

Celina Resident Hired By State of the Heart Hospice

Melinda Varney of Celina has been hired by State of the Heart Hospice as a Registered Nurse. She will work from the nonprofit agency’s Coldwater office. With other offices in Greenville and Portland, State of the Heart cares for patients and families in eastern Indiana and western Ohio who are confronting a life limiting illness.

Varney has been employed in the health care field in various capacities for 25 years. “I have always wanted to work for a hospice agency as hospice caregivers were a big help to my family when we needed them.” In her free time, she enjoys reading and listening to music.

For more information about any of the services provided by State of the Heart, visit the agency web site at www.stateoftheheartcare.org.

Coldwater Kiwanis goes to bat to Eliminate Maternal/Neonatal Tetanus

Kiwanis International and UNICEF have joined forces to eliminate maternal and neonatal tetanus. The Eliminate Project has a goal of wiping out this deadly disease that steals the lives of nearly 60,000 innocent babies and a significant number of women each year. The effects of the disease are excruciating — tiny newborns suffer repeated, painful convulsions and extreme sensitivity to light and touch.

To eliminate MNT from the Earth, more than 100 million mothers and their future babies must be immunized. This requires vaccines, syringes, safe storage, transportation, thousands of skilled staff and more. It will take $110 million — and the dedicated work of UNICEF and every member of the Kiwanis family. The local Kiwanis Club in Coldwater recently went to bat to help with The Eliminate Project.

Supporting the Coldwater Kiwanis Club was Cory Luebke, Marion Local graduate and Major League Pitcher for the San Diego Padres. Luebke signed a bat to be utilized for fundraising for The Eliminate Project. All proceeds went to the project with over $400 raised. The winner of the autographed baseball was Brenda Hoying of St. Henry. (See attached photo.)

For more information about The Eliminate Project or The Coldwater Kiwanis Club, contact Jana Ranly at 419-678-2311.

Annual Cooper Turkey Trot 5 K Run Benefits State of the Heart Hospice

For the sixth year, Cooper Farms held the company’s annual Turkey Trot 5 K Run and raised $2,500 for State of the Heart Hospice. Over the last six years, the annual run which is held in November has raised $15,500 for State of the Heart. Shown here in a check presentation at the Cooper Farms office in Ft. Recovery are, left to right: Pauline Faller, State of the Heart Volunteer Coordinator, Ryan Gathard, Fund Development Director for State of the Heart, Theresa Puthoff, Deb Faller, and Susie Fortkamp. With offices in Greenville, Coldwater and Portland, State of the Heart cares for patients and families in eastern Indiana and western Ohio who are confronting a life limiting illness. Visit the agency web site at www.stateoftheheartcare.org

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