Logan County Sheriff Andy Smith (pictured) lifted the Level 1 Snow Emergency Saturday morning at 8:30.

Our county was under a snow emergency since Thursday afternoon.

Union County dropped its snow emergency Friday at four p.m.

Champaign County lifted its snow emergency Saturday at 12:30 p.m.

A Level 1 means that roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads are also icy. Caution should be used when driving.

Drive carefully; some roads may still be snow-covered and icy in spots.

The Marysville Post of the State Highway Patrol responded to three accidents on Route 33 near County Road 5 (near Zanesfield) Saturday morning at 9:15.

One of the drivers suffered minor injuries and was transported to Mary Rutan Hospital.

The Patrol has not released their name.

The Bellefontaine Police Department is investigating a one-vehicle accident in the 1000 block of Reservoir Road.

A motorist struck a utility pole and a street sign around four o’clock Saturday morning, which resulted in downed power lines.

The Bellefontaine Fire Department and DP&L assisted at the scene.

Dianne Mosteller (pictured, left) of West Liberty was recently named the Employee of the Year at Green Hills Retirement Community. She is the Dining Services Supervisor and has worked at the long-term care facility for five years.

She is committed to quality, hard work, and positive attitude that is in line with the GREEN philosophy of Green Hills. Mrs. Mosteller has the ability to work under pressure, she shows attention to detail and has the ability to motivate others around her.

The five elements of the “Resolve to Live GREEN” initiative are Giving, Respect, Engage, Encourage and Nurture; all qualities that provide an active, healthy, fertile atmosphere for co-workers and residents of Green Hills.

Marsha Lee (pictured, left) of Urbana was named the Employee of the Fourth Quarter. Mrs. Lee is the Nursing Scheduler and has worked at Green Hills for two years.

The selection process was conducted by their peers at Green Hills.

An all-time high of 83.8 percent of the Honda and Acura automobiles sold in the United States in 2009 were produced at the company’s plants in North America, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today. American Honda has maintained a local production rate of approximately 75 percent or higher since 1996.

(Pictured: Honda associates install a rear bumper on a Crosstour at the East Liberty Auto Plant.)

Honda operates seven automobile plants in North America – four in the U.S. (Marysville, East Liberty), two in Canada and one in Mexico, producing fifteen different models, including the Civic sedan, coupe and GX (natural gas vehicle), Accord sedan, coupe and Crosstour, Odyssey, Pilot, Ridgeline, CR-V and Element, as well as the Acura TL, ZDX, RDX and MDX models.

Honda’s North American plants produced a total of more than one million vehicles in 2009, including those for export and currently in dealer inventory. Of the more than 1.15 million Honda and Acura automobiles sold in the U.S. in 2009, the 83.8 percent local production rate is the highest percentage in the company’s 27-year history of making automobiles in the region and by far the highest percentage for any international automaker in 2009.

The auto plants in Marysville and East Liberty produced 463,596 cars and light trucks last year, or nearly half of Honda's North American production (2,030,958).

In 2009, the Marysville Auto Plant produced 301,995 vehicles, while the East Liberty Auto Plant produced 161,601.

“As part of our long-standing commitment to build Honda and Acura products close to our customers, we have steadily deepened our automobile manufacturing roots in the U.S. and the North America region,” said Tetsuo Iwamura, president & CEO of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “Using our flexible manufacturing capacity, we plan to continue to maintain our local production levels at approximately 80 percent of our annual sales.”

Honda began production of the fuel efficient Honda Civic sedan at its seventh North American auto plant, in Greensburg, Indiana, in October 2008. In 2009, the company added production of two new crossover vehicles – the Honda Accord Crosstour, manufactured in East Liberty, Ohio, and the Acura ZDX, manufactured in Alliston, Ontario – along with the addition of fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine production at a new engine plant in Ontario, Canada.

Honda has exported nearly 960,000 automobiles from its plants in North America to more than 100 countries around the world since 1987, including approximately 27,000 vehicles in 2009, as well as exporting more than 300,000 component parts last year to be used in the assembly of Honda products in other nations.

In addition to automobile production, Honda operates three automobile engine plants in North America – two in the U.S. and one in Canada – along with two U.S. plants for the production of automatic transmissions and gear sets; a power equipment and small engine plant, in North Carolina; and a plant producing Honda all-terrain vehicles, in South Carolina.

Two additional new plants, for the production of the HondaJet advanced light jet and the GE Honda turbofan engine, are under construction in the communities of Greensboro and Burlington, North Carolina, respectively.

Honda began operations in the U.S. in 1959 with the establishment of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. Honda began U.S. production of motorcycles in 1979 and automobiles in 1982. The company has invested more than $12.1 billion in its North American operations with employment of more than 25,000 associates and annual purchases of more than $17.5 billion in parts and materials from suppliers in North America.

State Representative Dave Burke (R-Marysville) has announced his bid for re-election bid for the 83rd Ohio House District seat.

In his two years in office, Burke has voted against tax increase and supported cost-saving efficiency measures. Burke has introduced bills to strengthen witness protection laws, protect individual rights, and bring equality to healthcare.

Burke said it is his “number one priority to assure the views and values of families and businesses find their way to the House floor in Columbus.”

District 83 includes Logan County.

You can see more about Burke on his Ohio House page at http://www.house.state.oh.us/index.php?option=com_displaymembers&task=detail&district=83.

Level 1 Snow Emergencies were issued in Logan, Union, and Champaign counties Thursday afternoon.

Logan and Champaign counties remain under a Level 1, but Union County lifted its emergency Friday at four p.m.

A Level 1 means that roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads are also icy and caution should be used when driving.

Listen for cancellations throughout the day on Mix 98.3 WPKO.

Here are some tips for driving in snow and ice:

There were several minor accidents across the county since yesterday’s snow arrived.

An Indian Lake school bus slid on Township Road 56 near County Road 130 yesterday afternoon around one o’clock.

The bus was hauling 46 high school and middle school students. No one was injured.

The students were transported by another bus.

The bus was towed from the ditch and the driver was not cited.

The Marysville Post of the State Highway Patrol responded to a minor two-vehicle injury accident on County Road 11 near Blue Jacket Dairy Thursday morning around ten o’clock after a car struck a utility pole.

The driver was transported to Mary Rutan Hospital by Bellefontaine Fire and EMS.

The accident remains under investigation.

A car and a snow plow were involved in a wreck at the intersection of County Road 1 and Township Road 181 this morning around six o’clock.

The sheriff’s office handled the accident.

No one was injured.

Finally, a few snowmobilers escaped injury after falling through the ice on Indian Lake last night.

Three snowmobiles fell through near O’Connor’s Point around 7 p.m.

Another snowmobile fell through near Cranberry last night.

Their names were not released.

The Council on Accreditation has recognized Adriel, Inc. as an outstanding service provider by awarding Adriel with a four-year accreditation.

The COA accreditation process involves a detailed review and analysis of both an organization’s administrative operations and its service delivery practices, which are measured against national standards of best practice.  In addition, the review confirms that the services are provided by a skilled and supported workforce and that all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. COA is proud to recognize Adriel’s commitment to delivering the highest quality services.

Mike Mullins, Adriel CEO, stated, “COA accreditation truly sets Adriel apart as a provider of exceptional service. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff and our commitment to quality care for the children we serve.”

Adriel, founded as an orphan’s home by the Mennonite Church in 1896, is a not-for-profit agency that provides foster care, adoption, and residential treatment services for children who have been abused and neglected. Adriel is licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, certified by the Ohio Department of Mental Health, and is a Certified Teaching Family Sponsor Site. With offices in West Liberty, Archbold, and Dublin, Adriel serves more than 400 children each year. For more information, visit www.adriel.org.

The Logan County Sheriff’s Office arrested two local men on drug-related charges after a traffic stop in DeGraff Thursday afternoon around 2:45.

Stephen Paul Angles (pictured, left), 31, of 311 Meadow Lane, DeGraff, and Clint Pierce (pictured, below), 29, of 4317 State Route 235, Quincy, were each charged with possession of heroin following a traffic stop in the area of Miller Street and Meadow Lane.

Deputies recovered six doses of heroin.

Angles was also charged with conveying drugs into a detention facility after additional heroin was recovered in his underwear at the jail.

Members of the Bellefontaine Kiwanis Club heard from Jennifer Parnell of Logan County Children’s Services about different opportunities to help with child care.

Parnell discussed three different types of care that can be used in the system: foster care, adoption and respite care.

Foster care provides a substitute family for a child in need due to issues of abuse, neglect or dependency. The family cares for the child and fulfills parental roles while the child’s birth family works to remedy concerns leading to the need for out of home placement. Foster care provides a safe, secure, and supportive environment for the child on a temporary basis, until the child can return to their parents, another relative, or until they can move to an adoptive home.

Adoption provides a permanent family for a child in need. The child enters the child welfare system often through foster care, but if reunification or relative placement are not options, Logan County Children’s Services seeks permanent custody of the child and then works toward adoption. Through adoption, the child legally becomes a member of the family, similar to any birth children.

Respite is a newer program that has been in place as a community support for a couple years. Respite is a 1-14 day intervention, where a child is placed in a resource home for some reason. Referrals for this program come from Logan County Children’s Services along with the Family Court, the Board of Developmental Disabilities and mental health agencies. This service provides support for families dealing with various challenges and provides a way to maintain the family unit.

There are several ways to help out Children’s Services if child care is not an option. Different volunteer opportunities are available, providing clothing for the agency’s clothing closet included.

Listen to Jennifer Parnell talk about what she spoke to Kiwanians about, the different kinds of child care available, and other opportunities to help Children’s Services.

Logan County Children’s Services can be contacted at (937) 599-7290.

Level 1 Snow Emergencies were issued in Logan, Union, and Champaign counties Thursday afternoon.

A Level 1 means that roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roads are also icy and caution should be used when driving.

Listen for cancellations throughout the day on Mix 98.3 WPKO.

Here are some tips for driving in snow and ice:

The best advice for driving in bad winter weather is not to drive at all, if you can avoid it.

Don't go out until the snow plows and sanding trucks have had a chance to do their work, and allow yourself extra time to reach your destination.

If you must drive in snowy conditions, make sure your car is prepared, and that you know how to handle road conditions.

It's helpful to practice winter driving techniques in a snowy, open parking lot, so you're familiar with how your car handles. Consult your owner's manual for tips specific to your vehicle.

Driving safely on icy roads

   1. Decrease your speed and leave yourself plenty of room to stop. You should allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front of you.
   2. Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.
   3. Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other motorists.
   4. Keep your lights and windshield clean.
   5. Use low gears to keep traction, especially on hills.
   6. Don't use cruise control or overdrive on icy roads.
   7. Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roads, which will freeze first. Even at temperatures above freezing, if the conditions are wet, you might encounter ice in shady areas or on exposed roadways like bridges.
   8. Don't pass snow plows and sanding trucks. The drivers have limited visibility, and you're likely to find the road in front of them worse than the road behind.
   9. Don't assume your vehicle can handle all conditions. Even four-wheel and front-wheel drive vehicles can encounter trouble on winter roads.

If your rear wheels skid...

   1. Take your foot off the accelerator.
   2. Steer in the direction you want the front wheels to go. If your rear wheels are sliding left, steer left. If they're sliding right, steer right.
   3. If your rear wheels start sliding the other way as you recover, ease the steering wheel toward that side. You might have to steer left and right a few times to get your vehicle completely under control.
   4. If you have standard brakes, pump them gently.
   5. If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS), do not pump the brakes. Apply steady pressure to the brakes. You will feel the brakes pulse — this is normal.

If your front wheels skid...

   1. Take your foot off the gas and shift to neutral, but don't try to steer immediately.
   2. As the wheels skid sideways, they will slow the vehicle and traction will return. As it does, steer in the direction you want to go. Then put the transmission in "drive" or release the clutch, and accelerate gently.

If you get stuck...

   1. Do not spin your wheels. This will only dig you in deeper.
   2. Turn your wheels from side to side a few times to push snow out of the way.
   3. Use a light touch on the gas, to ease your car out.
   4. Use a shovel to clear snow away from the wheels and the underside of the car.
   5. Pour sand, kitty litter, gravel or salt in the path of the wheels, to help get traction.
   6. Try rocking the vehicle. (Check your owner's manual first — it can damage the transmission on some vehicles.) Shift from forward to reverse, and back again. Each time you're in gear, give a light touch on the gas until the vehicle gets going.

Here are several pictures from downtown Bellefontaine this afternoon.

 

 

 

 

 

Longtime rural Bellefontaine resident Doug (DJ) Casey has been named this month’s Community Hero.

WPKO and Kevin F. Jennings Funeral Home select a recipient each month.

Casey, who graduated from Bellefontaine High School in 2000, was nominated for his countless hours of service to Chieftain athletics.

(Pictured, left to right: Bellefontaine Superintendent Beth Harman, Doug Casey, and his mom, Roxan)

Casey started helping manage the freshman boys basketball team for Coach Brunswick in ‘96-‘97.

This year, Doug started his 14th consecutive season working as the head boys basketball manager. He has served under head coaches Collins, Furlong, and Stolly.

At practice, Casey does a variety of jobs. He runs the clock, coordinates equipment and uniforms, and secures the facilities.

Doug also films practices and games.

He attends every game and even helps with scouting trips.

Casey assists in the Spring Junior High Boys Basketball League.

Finally, he helps with the Summer Basketball League and Youth Basketball Camps. 

Casey has also been the head manager of the football team for more than a decade.

He has worked in the baseball program for a number of years, too.

Henry Stolly said, “Doug has become a valuable fixture around BHS athletics and he has dedicated – through time, effort, and talents – a significant part of his life to the Bellefontaine community.

Doug is a positive role model and we have always found him to be eager and selfless in his efforts to lend a helping hand to better the team/program.

He is not only an inspiration to me, but to the many people (coaches, parents, players, fans, etc.) he comes into contact with in the Bellefontaine community.

Doug inspires our athletes to become champions and the Bellefontaine community to open our hearts through his example of generosity, passion, and love of sports. He teaches us that the greatest victories happen in real life!

People thank me all the time for allowing Doug to be a part of the boys basketball program, but I can sincerely assure you that he gives back to me personally far more than I could ever give him.

I am so happy and proud for Doug and his family for receiving the Community Hero award.

We are all so blessed to know this unique young man.”

Casey was recently chosen to represent Team Ohio in a Special Olympics national softball tournament in Lincoln, Nebraska in July. It’s the first time in 20 years that a representative from our county has been selected.

Doug was presented his award while appearing on Wilkinson in the Morning Thursday. He was joined by his mother, Roxan, and Bellefontaine Superintendent Beth Harman.

Listen to the complete interview.

Casey was nominated by Harman and head football coach Jason Brown. 

If there is a Community Hero you would like to nominate, go to http://www.peakofohio.com/heroes/

We salute Doug Casey for making Logan County a better place to live!!!

The Springfield Post of the State Highway Patrol is currently investigating a fatal crash on Interstate 70 eastbound near Route 40 in Clark County that happened around one o’clock this afternoon.

The crash occurred when a westbound 2006 Mack commercial truck, driven by Zygmunt Wieckowski, age 59 of Chicago, IL, lost control and crossed the median into eastbound traffic. The commercial vehicle clipped a 2007 Acura, driven by Robin McCann, age 45, of Cuyahoga Falls, OH. Ms. McCann was not injured in the crash. 

The commercial vehicle continued on, striking an eastbound 2008 Chevrolet 17-passenger motor coach driven by Traci Williams, age 42, of Springfield, OH. The driver of the motor coach and three passengers, Kenny Fry, age 61, Lonnie Acton, age 28 and Alonso Ruffin, age 37, all of Springfield, OH were pronounced deceased on scene by the Clark County Coroner’s Office. The six additional passengers in the motor coach and the driver of the commercial vehicle were transported to local hospitals for treatment. The names and conditions of the six passengers are not known at this time. 

The crash remains under investigation. Alcohol is not believed to be a factor in the crash. Troopers are reminding motorists to use extreme caution when driving on snow covered roadways. 

I-70 reopened at approximately 7 p.m. and all lanes of traffic are flowing normally for winter weather driving.

Logan County’s 32nd Annual Financial Aid Night was held at Bellefontaine High School Wednesday night, with parents and students ready to learn about the college financial aid process.

The event was sponsored by the guidance departments at Benjamin Logan, Bellefontaine, Indian Lake, Riverside and Ohio Hi-Point Career Center, and explained to high school seniors about the process in applying for financial aid.

The event started off with the explanation of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and how important the timeline is for students planning on beginning college in the fall.

Wendell Schick (pictured, right) from the Financial Aid Department at The University of Northwestern Ohio has spoken for  30 of the 32 years the event has taken place and spoke about the FAFSA to the crowd.

He said the most common thing that people don’t understand in the process is the timeline of when to have the financial forms filled out. “If you kind of have an idea of what’s going to happen, then you can plan for it and be ready whenever something comes up that you need to address.”

The 2010-2011 FAFSA is currently available for students and should be filled out by February 15.

Several types of financial aid are available for students to apply for, including grants, scholarships, loans and employment opportunities. “The best kind of funds are grants and scholarships, and those don’t have to be repaid.”

75-80% of current college students use federal student loan, making it the most commonly used of all financial aid.

Schick said informational nights like the ones held at Bellefontaine help the students and parents understand more of the timelines and processes. “It’s brand new for all these young students, and it’s a little bit scary whenever you do something brand new.”

Listen to Wendell Schick talk about the common problems with applying for financial aid, types of aid, and how informational nights help students planning for college.

A boil advisory has been put into effect for the Northeastern part of Lakeview by the Lakeview Water Department for residents North of Stephenson St. and east of US-33.

Streets include N. Oak St., Bass Lane, Midway Ave. Bentz, State St., Grove Ave., North St. Northwest Court and Lima St.

Residents should boil water for at least three minutes before consuming, and will be advised when the Advisory is lifted.

A structure fire destroyed a two-story farmhouse west of Bellefontaine Wednesday afternoon around 12:15.

The Bellefontaine Fire Department along with firefighters from DeGraff and Huntsville responded to a fully engulfed fire at 2647 State Route 47 West (where Scott Moody lived).

Owner Mark Brumbaugh was home when the fire started. He called 911 after noticing a fire in the dining room.

No one was injured.

State Route 47 was closed (pictured) between County Road 32 and Township Road 46 (between MRDD and the Whitmore House) for more than four hours.

The cause of the fire was a vent from a pellet stove in the basement.

Bellefontaine Fire Chief J.P. Schulz spoke with Bill Tipple at the scene.

Listen to his comments.

The Level 1 Snow Emergencies in Logan and Champaign counties have been lifted.

The snow emergency in Champaign County was lifted at noon today.

Logan County Sheriff Andy Smith dropped the snow emergency this afternoon at 2:30.

2010 is starting out busy for Bellefontaine High School. Practices for the musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat have begun and the marching band has recently received information about the trip to Philadelphia that they will be taking over Thanksgiving break this year. Many students have started conditioning for their upcoming spring sports and of course the senior class of 2010 is preparing for the end of their high school career.

Every year people make new year’s resolutions and the staff and students at BHS are no exception. Many said that they wanted to start working out more and eating healthier. Also, most students have made the resolution to achieve better grades and work harder in the sports they participate in. Some said that they wanted to try and stay close with their friends once they graduate high school.

People have also already started making predictions about what 2010 will bring. All the seniors at BHS know that this year they will be graduating and beginning a new part of their lives. Alan Biddle (pictured) is wearing a ‘2010 Senior’ shirt, one item of memorabilia that the seniors were able to purchase. The freshmen, sophomore, and junior classes are hoping that 2010 will bring winning sports seasons, good grades, and a lot of fun.

Listen to senior Jessica Levan talk about what she thinks 2010 has in store for her.

Listen to junior Shelby Roberts talk about her new year’s resolutions.

Listen to Spanish teacher JoAnne Aburto talk about her plans for 2010.

Listen to junior Michael Stockton talk about what he is hoping for in the upcoming year.

The Marysville Post of the State Highway Patrol responded to a couple of minor injury accidents Tuesday evening.

Troopers handled a wreck on Route 68 near Township Road 190 around 5:30.

David Miranda, 38, of 128 South Detroit Street, Bellefontaine, was northbound when he lost control, went off the right side of the road, and struck a few trees.

He was transported to Mary Rutan Hospital by West Liberty EMS.

The Patrol responded to a rollover accident on County Road 130 north of County Road 57 around 10:25.

John Bryant, 43, of 606 Miami Avenue, Russells Point, was operating an ‘05 Dodge Ram pickup northbound when he lost control and went off the left side of the road. The pickup rolled onto its top.

Bryant was transported to Lima Memorial Hospital by Huntsville EMS.

Alcohol was a factor in the crash.

Both accidents remain under investigation.

The DeGraff Police Department arrested a local man on multiple charges last night around 6:30.

While on routine patrol, officers observed a suspicious vehicle in the DeGraff Park (232 West Pleasant Street).

The driver saw the police cruiser and attempted to exit the park.

Moments later, officers conducted a traffic stop.

David Hines (pictured), 29, of 11028 County Road 60, DeGraff, was charged with driving under suspension, possession of marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.

He was lodged in the Logan County Jail.

Three defendants pled guilty before Logan County Common Pleas Court Judge Mark O’Connor (pictured) earlier this week.

Nancy McCullough, 60, of West Liberty, pled guilty to carrying a concealed weapon. She was placed on the prosecutor’s pretrial diversion program.

Michael Hill, 20, of West Union, pled guilty to robbery and Vencil Medley, 32, of Mt. Victory, pled guilty to conspiracy to robbery. Presentence investigations were ordered and sentencings are scheduled for February 8th.

Logan County fire department representatives gathered at the Bellefontaine Fire Department Tuesday night for the first time in 2010 for their monthly Logan County Fire meeting.

Members discussed federal grants including the 2009 Homeland Security Grant and the Fire FEMA Grant. The Homeland Security Grant was recently awarded to the county, but officials have yet to decide on where to use the money. Also the county’s fire chiefs still have to decide on whether or not to apply for the FEMA grant.

Bellefontaine Fire Chief J.P. Schulz had originally arranged for a representative from McAfee to discuss the county's switch to narrow band radio frequencies, but the representative was not present at the meeting. Schulz tried to talk about the switch as much as he could instead.

“The F.C.C. is going to narrow band all communication radios, basically cutting the bandwidth in half that radios transmit and receive on,” he explained.

If the radios cannot be programmed with narrow band, new radios will cost the departments between $800-$1,000 each. All radios must be updated by 2013.

There have already been nine fire-related deaths in Ohio in 2010, and Chief Schulz talked after the meeting about the #1 way to prevent fatal fires.

“The most important thing is to make sure that you have a working smoke detector,” said Schulz.

Homeowners should replace their smoke detector batteries every time they change their clock, and test them out once a month.

Listen to Bellefontaine Fire Chief J.P. Schulz talk about narrow band radio frequencies and fatal fire prevention.

The group meets again on February 2.

The DeGraff Village Council met for the first time in 2010 Tuesday night and the group had plenty of housekeeping issues as it rang in the new year.

Council’s first course of action taken Tuesday was to appoint a pair of new members to its administration.

Lee Harbour was voted by Council to fill the vacant seat left by Susie Smithers; this will mark Harbour’s third term as a councilman for the Village of DeGraff.

Harbour’s appointment was not the only vacancy filled by Council Tuesday. Rex Purtee was appointed by Council to fill the vacancy in the village’s Board of Public Affairs.

Harbour, who was present at the meeting, was sworn in by Mayor Gary Comer Tuesday night and took his seat immediately.

Listen as Harbour talks about what he brings to DeGraff Village Council.

During her report Fiscal Officer Linda Harford presented to Council the 2009 Permanent Annual Appropriations Report in which he outlined for Council where, exactly, the village stands as 2010 begins.

According to Harford’s report, DeGraff saw an approximate decrease of $54,000 to its General Fund over the course of 2009. Harford says those losses stem largely in a decrease of tax revenues collected by the village.

As 2010 begins Harford says the village has $284,574.62 in its General Fund and the budget for 2010 estimates a revenue of $366,807 for the upcoming year.

Listen as Harford talks about the 2010 budget.

Other housekeeping measures taken by Council Tuesday saw the group name Gloria Armstrong president pro-temp for the new year.

Council will meet again Jan. 19th at 7 p.m.

The Marysville Post of the State Highway Patrol reports that a local man was killed in a two-vehicle accident on Route 33 just west of State Route 274 Tuesday morning around 7:40.

John Klaas, 76, of Russells Point, was driving a ‘96 Ford Contour eastbound on Route 33 when he lost control, went left of center, and struck a westbound ‘06 Freightliner semi operated by Sidney Brown, Jr., 54, of Arlington, Texas.

Klaas was pronounced dead at the scene by Logan County Coroner Dr. Michael Failor.

Brown was transported to Mary Rutan Hospital with a possible injury.

Both drivers were wearing their seat belts.

Huntsville Fire and EMS assisted at the scene.

The Patrol says the road was snow-covered and icy.

The accident remains under investigation. It’s the first fatal crash in Logan County this year.

The 32nd annual Logan County Financial Aid Night will be held Wednesday in the Bellefontaine High School Auditorium beginning at 7 p.m.

The Guidance Departments of Bellefontaine, Benjamin Logan, Indian Lake, Riverside, and the Ohio Hi-Point Career Center are sponsoring the event.

The purpose of the presentation is to provide information on the subject of college financial aid to parents and students. Highlighting the evening will be a seminar on completing the financial aid forms that determine eligibility for many sources of financial aid. Students who plan to continue their education in college, a technical or trade school, or other means of post-secondary education will benefit.

Each guidance department urges college-bound seniors and their parents to attend this meeting. Those juniors and their parents who wish to get a head start on understanding the financial aid process are also welcome to attend. Please contact your child's guidance counselor with further questions.

The Marysville Post of the State Highway Patrol responded to a minor injury accident near West Liberty Monday night around 9:45.

Jessica Lowe, 26, of West Liberty, was driving a ‘99 Honda CRV eastbound on State Route 287 near County Road 28 when she lost control, then went off the left side of the road and struck a mailbox and a tree.

She was transported to Mary Rutan Hospital by West Liberty EMS.

Lowe was cited for unsafe speed for the conditions.

Her vehicle suffered heavy damage.

Congressman Jim Jordan (R-Urbana) of the 4th district sat down with members of the business community Monday afternoon at Steve Austin’s Auto Group to discuss the comings and goings on Capitol Hill and the affect on Logan County’s economy.

Jordan began Monday’s hour-long meeting with a statement regarding his concern about the direction of the Federal Government. 

Jordan also fielded an array of questions from those in attendance, ranging from the economy to healthcare to the war.

Jordan minced no words concerning his opinion on those issues and what he considers to be “major issues” within government.

Listen as Jordan discusses the importance of meeting with local business owners and his concerns regarding a Democrat-led Congress. 

Jordan did add during his speech Monday that he believes the recession is beginning to subside and the economy is improving. President and CEO of the Logan County Area Chamber of Commerce Ed Wallace was in attendance Monday and he, too, believes the economy is improving.

Listen as Wallace talks about the area economy. 

Jordan, a two-term Congressman, will be running for re-election again this November.

With three council members being sworn in, and one seat to fill, Russells Point Village Council had their hands full for the first meeting of 2010. Then the one empty seat turned into two.

Council member Jayme Abouaf promptly resigned after an argument with Mayor Greg Iiams about appointing a new council member. Abouaf wanted to appoint a member at the meeting and Iiams wanted to wait longer because he felt that the member should be from the North side of US-33, where council had limited representation.

“What I would like to see is an equal distribution of council representation in the village. Currently there are four council members from the South side of 33 and one from the North side and it’s kind of uneven, the North side really needs to have another representative,” said Iiams after the meeting.

As the argument escalated Abouaf tossed his papers in front of the Mayor and announced his resignation.

With Abouaf’s resignation, three of the four other council members were sworn in to office. Robert Reames and Dave  Leonard (both pictured, right) were sworn in for another four years, and Sharon DeVault was sworn in to fill one of the previous vacancies.

The two current vacancies have to be filled within the next 30 days. If they are not filled the Mayor will have to appoint members.

Also brought up in the meeting was the snow removal on roads and sidewalks. Mayor Iiams thinks the issue occurs every year, and it’s not something that can be prevented automatically.

“I think it’s just because it snowed. It happens every year; snow is a problem. When you move it into a driveway or from a driveway out into the street you’re actually impeding the progress of movement in the street. When the snow plows come through they put it right back where it came from.”

Mayor Iiams also gave his State of the Village address during the meeting, recapping 2009’s events. With a cruiser accident and the village’s water tower leak, it was determined by Iiams that December was the roughest month for Russell’s Point.

Listen to Mayor Iiams talk about Mr. Abouaf’s resignation and issues with snow removal in the area.

Council will not meet again in the month of January due to Martin Luther King Jr. Day, so the next regular session meeting will be on February 1.

Ohioans are reminded to use extreme caution during winter while venturing onto frozen waterways and to be prepared to handle an emergency should someone fall through the ice, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

As some of the lowest temperatures of the winter arrive, some people may be tempted to venture out onto the ice and should be aware of basic safety tips, including being prepared for an emergency.

Ice Safety Tips

· Always remember that ice-covered water is never completely safe.

· Anyone new to ice fishing, or interested in learning how to safely ice fish, should seek out a licensed ice-fishing guide.  Ask at local bait shops about known areas of thin or dangerous ice.

· Always go out with friends, letting others know when you will be on the ice and when you will return. Whenever possible, wrap a mobile phone in a plastic bag and take it with you.

· Wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket or float coat. Life vests provide excellent flotation and protection from hypothermia.

· Use safe alternatives to local streams or lakes for skating or sledding. Check with your local, state or metro park district to see where conditions are suitable for skating. Some state parks offer free access to designated ice-skating areas.

· Understand wind chill factors are relative temperature guides. Although a thermometer may read 40 degrees, a wind speed of 20 miles per hour can cause a body to lose heat as if the temperature was actually 18 degrees.

· Carry two ice picks, screwdrivers or large nails to create leverage for pulling yourself out of the water. They are much more effective than bare hands. Also, carry a whistle or other noisemaker to alert people that you are in distress.

· Dress in layers and add extra clothing for the head, neck, sides and groin, which are the primary heat-loss areas. Wool and modern synthetics are good fabric choices for clothing; cotton is slow to dry when wet.

· Keep an extra set of clothes in your car in case you need dry clothing.

· Avoid alcoholic beverages. In addition to reducing reaction times, alcohol lowers your internal temperature and increases your chance of suffering hypothermia.

· Never drive a vehicle, snowmobile or all-terrain vehicle onto ice. Leave this to professional guides. This is extremely dangerous and most insurance policies will not cover the vehicles of ice fishermen that have dropped through the ice.

The Bellefontaine Fire Department responded to a structure fire Monday morning around 11:50.

Assistant Chief T.J. Weikart reports that a gas fireplace caused a fire at Elly Cash’s 317 East Brown Avenue home.

The fire damaged the ceiling, wall, and floor of the living room.

The fire caused about $10,000 worth of damage to the structure and contents.

Firefighters were on scene for about two hours.

Cash was home when the fire started and no one was injured.

The Mary Rutan Hospital Birth Center delivered its first birth of the New Year Saturday morning at 11:48.

Alisabeth Brady, 22, of Bellefontaine had a daughter, Tamarra Lynn Conwell (pictured, together).

She weighed 6 lbs, 4.5 ounces and measured 18 inches.

Dr. Ryan Johnson delivered the baby.

The family received a gift basket from the hospital with blankets, a sleeper, diapers, and other baby care items.

In addition, the family was given a golden spoon with 2010 engraved on it.

It’s Brady’s third child, but her first daughter.

Ty is three-years-old and Taydin will turn one later this month.

The proud mother spoke with Bill Tipple Monday morning.

Listen to her comments.

A local man suffered serious injuries in a snowmobile accident near Lakeview Hardware Friday morning around 2:40.

The Logan County Sheriff’s Office reports that Shaun B. Tindall, 49, of 131 Bristol Circle, Russells Point, was driving a 1980 Ski-Doo southbound in a field when he struck a ditch and a creek.

Tindall, who was ejected, was transported to Lima Memorial Hospital by Indian Lake EMS.

The accident was reported by his son, Shaun B. Tindall, 21, of Ingleside, Texas, who was also riding a snowmobile.

The son was charged with OVI after refusing to take a breath test.

The Logan County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Zanesfield man on multiple charges following a domestic disturbance Friday morning around five o’clock.

Deputies responded to a domestic dispute at 4000 Alpine Parkway.

Joseph Donald McDaniels, Jr., 44, (pictured) was reportedly upset because his girlfriend locked their residence.

After causing extensive damage to the home, McDaniels fled before authorities arrived.

A pursuit ensued on Route 33 and McDaniels was taken into custody after his vehicle got stuck in a field off Sloan Boulevard.

He was charged with OVI, domestic violence, resisting arrest, reckless operation, criminal trespassing, and violation of traffic control devices.

McDaniels was lodged in the Logan County Jail.

No one was injured.

The Weekly Agenda for Commissioners Core, Knight, and Bayliss for the week of January 4th through January 8th

Monday:

 

Tuesday:

8:30 a.m. COMMISSION IN SESSION

10:00 a.m. John Holtkamp re: quarterly update on Children’s Services

7:00 p.m. Logan County Fire meeting – Bellefontaine

Wednesday:

 

Thursday:

7:30 a.m. Elected Official Breakfast – Homecoming Restaurant

8:30 a.m.-COMMISSION IN SESSION

10:00 a.m. Logan Acres board meeting – Logan Acres

1:30 p.m. Family & Children First – Results Based Accountability meeting – Discovery Center (CORE)

Friday:

 

The Commission may also take up and act upon matters that have not yet been brought to the attention of the Commissioners or the Clerk/Administrator at the time of the preparation of this agenda.