At Troy Miller Agency, contractors and farmers have their needs met with a personal touch only a local could offer. Troy Miller and his agents work to meet the needs of each individual client, with an unrivaled sense of compassion and dedication.

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Fourteen students go 15 rounds in annual spelling bee.

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It took 18 rounds, but Angela Miller came out on top at the Chestnut Ridge spelling bee on Friday, Jan. 27.

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Patrons can get service with a smile at Der Dutchman Restaurant on Thursday, Feb. 9, when the Hiland High and Middle School staff will provide all of the service for dinner.

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Killbuck Elementary went above and beyond in their food drive celebrating the 100th day of school this past week.

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Agriculture News & Events

Judge rules prosecutor acted without bias in bridge theft charges

Judge Rinfret recently denied a motion by Kenneth E. Taylor, 58, 4627 Township Road 55, that argued Prosecuting Attorney Steve Knowling has a conflict of interest in prosecuting theft charges against him.

How does your garden grow? The Great Amaryllis Race is underway at Millersburg Elementary

The students at Millersburg Elementary are digging in for the long haul when it comes to raising crops, and the Great Amaryllis Race is just the beginning.

Agricultural programs face real challenges

Right now, the wheels of federal farm programs are running smoothly, which may not bode well for the farm bill and agricultural funding amid the tight budget situation.

OSU Extension to host Annie’s Project

Annie's Project is designed to strengthen women's role in modern farm enterprises.

Canned food drive very successful

The Hiland FFA hosted their annual Share-A-Christmas canned food drive, collecting 918 cans for families in need during the holidays.

OSU Extension offers a series of educational meetings on natural gas issues

Educators from Ohio State University Extension will address numerous issues related to leasing land for oil and gas production through a series of meetings across Ohio in early 2012.

The beef business: Optimism looking toward 2012

There is a general consensus that beef cattle prices should be good through the foreseeable future.

West Holmes FFA members place fourth at State Parliamentary Procedure contest

The West Holmes FFA sent members to compete at the State Parliamentary Procedure contest in Columbus.

Equicert releases results of audit trial of new farm food safety standard

A new farm food safety standard has received its first independent evaluation, which includes Holmes County horsepowered farms.

A family tradition comes to an end

Larry and Jan Coldwell, of rural Killbuck, will say goodbye to the tree-selling business they have become accustomed to the past 24 years. The couple has agreed to retire from their beloved Christmas tree growing hobby.

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Business News & Events

Troy Miller Agency: Where business isn’t just business, it’s personal

At Troy Miller Agency, contractors and farmers have their needs met with a personal touch only a local could offer. Troy Miller and his agents work to meet the needs of each individual client, with an unrivaled sense of compassion and dedication.

Woodworkers unite, relationships grow at Keim Lumber appreciation evening

Keim Lumber paid homage to their customers during the Woodworker's Appreciation Night Thursday, Jan. 26, in Charm.

Landfill bid awarded, commissioners start closure process

Commissioners accept second lowest bid, selection criteria was best and lowest.

Berlin Pajama Party brings more than local shoppers out in their PJs

A successful pajama party marked another annual inventory reduction sale for Country Craft Cupboard on Saturday, Jan. 28.

Connecting the disconnected: Ohio groups coordinate to bring the Internet to rural Appalachia

Many rural Ohioans find that they do not have access to the Internet, and when they do, that the cost is prohibitive and bandwidth is restrictive. Nonprofit Connect Ohio is banding together with others to close the gap.

Commissioners sign off on enterprise zone agreement with Berlin business

Fifty percent, 10-year tax abatement approved for expansion of food distribution business.

A sweet success: Cookie Tour of Inns presents $13,000 to charities

The Amish Country Lodging Council doled out checks to the tune of more than $13,000 to Holmes County Hospice and the Love Center Food Pantry Jan. 18, as proceeds of their 2011 cookie tour.

CSB announces promotion of Kevin McAllister

McAllister promoted to vice president, trust officer at The Commercial & Savings Bank.

Wang opens new practice in Wooster

Wayne County's only female general surgeon is back from her time in New Zealand, where she practiced for a year. Now, Dr. Linda Wang is ready to see her patients once again, as part of Wooster Community Hospital's esteemed list of physicians.

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Church News & Events

The singles scenario – can God help?

Individuals that are single may feel left out, sad and pressured to find someone. With Valentine's Day approaching, those feelings can be heightened. Can involvement in a church fellowship help singles?

Killbuck United Methodist welcomes familiar face as new pastor

Long time resident Ken Smailes has officially taken the reins at Killbuck United Methodist Church. Smailes knows the area well, has a heart for small, country churches, and is happy to be serving the people of Killbuck in this new capacity.

A new adventure - local pastor retires from Killbuck UMC

Killbuck United Methodist Church bids farewell to friend and Pastor Roberta Fuller and her husband, Tom. Fuller is retiring after a summer of serious health issues. She conducted her final sermon at the church in December.

Millersburg Christian Church has vision for youth

Kids need a vision and a place they can grow spiritually. Millersburg Christian Church has a great love and vision for their young people and hope 2012 is a great year of growth for all.

Creation series to be presented at First Baptist

First Baptist Church in Berlin will present a six-week video series about creation on Sunday evenings.

Setting priorities in order for a new year

Although resolutions made in the new year don't always transpire into change, it's still important to examine your life at certain times and consider what areas might need reforming. Setting priorities is a place that many of us can implement good change.

Wise men —yes they still seek him

Most of us have seen the Christmas plaques that say, wise men still seek Him, and most of us know this to be true. But why did the wise men of old seek Christ, what did they want and how determined were they to get it?

Nashville UM Christmas services announced

Nashville United Methodist Church will host special services on Christmas Eve and Christmas morning.

A life changing gift

As Dec. 25 inches closer and closer, many are wracking their brain trying to think of a great gift for a special person. Giving the gift of God's Word to someone has the potential to become life altering.

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Community News & Events

Troy Miller Agency: Where business isn’t just business, it’s personal

At Troy Miller Agency, contractors and farmers have their needs met with a personal touch only a local could offer. Troy Miller and his agents work to meet the needs of each individual client, with an unrivaled sense of compassion and dedication.

MCC meat canning days in Berlin comes off without a hitch (thankfully)

The MCC turkey truck rolled through Berlin for its annual meat canning days event, and unlike last year, this one steamed along with no issues whatsoever.

Couple sentenced to prison time in Holmes County burglaries

Pair entered Amish homes while occupants away at church.

Doesn’t take a psychic to see Chestnut Ridge spelling bee as 2012 winner

It took 18 rounds, but Angela Miller came out on top at the Chestnut Ridge spelling bee on Friday, Jan. 27.

Service with a smile, East Holmes School District style

Patrons can get service with a smile at Der Dutchman Restaurant on Thursday, Feb. 9, when the Hiland High and Middle School staff will provide all of the service for dinner.

Killbuck students get canned for a good cause for 100th day of school

Killbuck Elementary went above and beyond in their food drive celebrating the 100th day of school this past week.

Commissioners purchase land for new 9-1-1 tower site

New tower to improve reception, save county money.

A sleepover for a cause: ACS seeking additional teams for Relay for Life of Holmes County

An informational meeting for new Relay For Life teams and interested persons will take place at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 14.

All-Ohio Youth Choir to perform Winter Pops Concert

Approximately 160 teen members of the Youth Choir and the Cardinal Chorale will be traveling from all points in Ohio to Coshocton for the 20th annual reunion concert Feb. 12.

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Cooking News & Events

Equicert releases results of audit trial of new farm food safety standard

A new farm food safety standard has received its first independent evaluation, which includes Holmes County horsepowered farms.

No need to wreck the budget to enjoy a well-seasoned repast at Tarragon.

The staff at The Inn at Honey Run, including Executive Chef Scott Fetty, put a lot of thought into creating a name for their dining room, something that would reflect the cuisine created there - Tarragon.

Celebrate the season with the traditions and surprises to be found at Troyer’s Country Market

Make this holiday special with Troyer's specialty and everyday items.

Thanksgiving feast or fiasco-avoiding a menu malfunction for the holidays

Despite the safe turkey handling directions and countless recommendations from food safety experts, every Thanksgiving thousands of people end up with food poisoning. Make sure you're groaning from a full stomach and not a painful one.

Join Local Roots in thanking your local farmers this Thanksgiving

You can find almost everything you need for your holiday feast at Local Roots including plenty of produce, locally-made snacks, cider and baked goods. You can also order a locally raised turkey and pre-order specialty pies.

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Education News & Events

Sinjon Howell winner of Hiland Spelling Bee

Fourteen students go 15 rounds in annual spelling bee.

Doesn’t take a psychic to see Chestnut Ridge spelling bee as 2012 winner

It took 18 rounds, but Angela Miller came out on top at the Chestnut Ridge spelling bee on Friday, Jan. 27.

Service with a smile, East Holmes School District style

Patrons can get service with a smile at Der Dutchman Restaurant on Thursday, Feb. 9, when the Hiland High and Middle School staff will provide all of the service for dinner.

Killbuck students get canned for a good cause for 100th day of school

Killbuck Elementary went above and beyond in their food drive celebrating the 100th day of school this past week.

Pomerene Hospital Foundation scholarship applications now available

Pomerene Hospital's Foundation announced applications for its 2012 Healthcare Scholarship Program, now in it's eighth year.

Class of 1961 celebrates 50th class reunion

Twenty-three classmates showed up at Fire Ridge Golf Course for reunion.

Kindergarten registration for West Holmes Class of 2025 to begin Feb. 13

Parents with children who will be 5 years of age on or before August 1 are asked to call and register their child at the elementary school the child will attend by April 27.

Crider spelling bee champ at West Holmes Middle School

West Holmes eighth-grader Louis Crider wows his audience at the annual Middle School spelling bee Jan. 27.

WalK Hard...

Dave Mast recaps his year of walking with his wife.

How does your garden grow? The Great Amaryllis Race is underway at Millersburg Elementary

The students at Millersburg Elementary are digging in for the long haul when it comes to raising crops, and the Great Amaryllis Race is just the beginning.

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Family News & Announcements

Patterson-Landfair engagement

Bill Patterson and Heidi Truit, both of Millersburg, announce the engagement of their daughter, Rachel Patterson of Millersburg, to Joshua Landfair of Nashville.

Schlabach-Yoder engagement

Rita Schlabach abd Andy Yoder are engaged.

Chupp-Weaver engagement announced

Jennifer Chupp and Paul Weaver Jr. are engaged to be married Feb. 4.

Miller anniversary

Anniversary celebration for David and Ruth Miller.

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Health News & Events

A sleepover for a cause: ACS seeking additional teams for Relay for Life of Holmes County

An informational meeting for new Relay For Life teams and interested persons will take place at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 14.

The desire to quit—local AA members offer help and understanding to others

Sometimes the best person to help you out of a hole is the person that lived in the hole themselves and was then rescued. AA is a unique gathering where many find success and strength.

Pomerene Hospital Foundation scholarship applications now available

Pomerene Hospital's Foundation announced applications for its 2012 Healthcare Scholarship Program, now in it's eighth year.

Immunization Works! DTaP vaccines important in fighting harmful bacteria

According to the CDC, years of testing are required by law before a vaccine can be licensed. Once licensed and in use, vaccines are continuously monitored for safety.

Pomerene Hospital offers cardiovascular screenings in February

Throughout the month of February, individuals can schedule a cardiovascular screening through the Pomerene Hospital radiology department. No physician order is necessary.

Landfill bid awarded, commissioners start closure process

Commissioners accept second lowest bid, selection criteria was best and lowest.

Self-pay services up at Pomerene in 2011

Use of midwife services, physician births by Amish growing.

Motivation an important part of weight loss

TOPS members hear program on motivation.

Something to chew on - the importance of maintaining dental health

For years many have lived under the misconception that dental health is separate from the rest of the body. Today, however, we know that keeping your mouth healthy is closely linked to overall physical health.

Health commissioner warns of whooping cough outbreak in 2012

In some reported cases, families turn down treatment, preventative care.

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Obituaries

Roman Beachy

Roman Beachy, 93, of Mt. Eaton, died unexpectedly Feb. 3, 2012, at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Sarasota, Fla.

James Kiser

James Kiser, 64, of Millersburg, died Feb. 4, 2012, at his home, following an extended illness.
James was born June 19, 1947, in Fremont, and was the son of the late Gerald and Margaret Kiser. On Feb. 19, 1972, he married Linda Distel and she survives.

Nancy Hipp

Nancy M. Hipp, 86, of Millersburg, died Jan. 30, 2012, after a brief stay at Sycamore Run Nursing Center while under Hospice care, surrounded by her loving family and her constant companion, her dog Rosita.

Carolyn Ridenbaugh

Carolyn Faye Ridenbaugh, 72, of Millersburg, died peacefully Jan. 29, 2012, at Sycamore Run Nursing Home.
Carolyn was born June 24, 1939, in Holmes County, and was the daughter of the late Lee and Ada Knox. On July 14, 1956, she married Denver L. Ridenbaugh, and he survives.

Monroe Mast

Deacon Monroe I. Mast, 94, of Wilmot, died peacefully Jan. 25, 2012, surrounded by his family, following a period of declining health.

Antonina Chrapowicki-Oschip

Antonina Chrapowicki-Oschip, 83, of Holmesville, died Jan. 21, 2012, at her home, surrounded by friends and family.

Allen Yoder

Allen A. Yoder, 64, of Millersburg, died Jan. 19, 2012, following a period of declining health.
Allen was born April 7, 1947, in Millersburg, and was the son of the late Andrew E. and Fannie A. Yoder. On Jan. 25, 1969, he married Maureen Kavanagh, and she survives.

Phyllis McElroy

Phyllis “PP” McElroy, 73, of Holmesville, died Jan. 17, 2012, at her home, following a sudden illness.
Phyllis was born July 25, 1938, in Loudonville, and was the daughter of George and Geniveve McCloud. In 1954, she married Clarence McElroy, and he preceded her in death in 1984.

Anna Coblentz

Anna Coblentz, 87, of Millersburg, died Jan. 18, 2012, following an extended illness.
Anna was born July 29, 1924, in Millersburg, the daughter of the late Sam B. and Susie Weaver. On Dec. 20, 1945, she married Benjamin J. Coblentz, who preceded her in death in 2010.

Raymond Miller

Raymond D. Miller, 79, of Millersburg, died peacefully Jan. 23, 2012, at his home, following a brief illness.

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Opinion News

God opens some doors and closes others

Struggling with loads of laundry, clutter in the kitchen and chaos in your life? Stress can easily steal our joy. Trish Berg reminds us to simplify the small stuff and find Joy in the Journey.

Investors can learn much from Super Bowl teams

Whether you're a sports fan or not, you can probably learn something from the Super Bowl teams that you can apply to other endeavors - such as investing.

Immunization Works! DTaP vaccines important in fighting harmful bacteria

According to the CDC, years of testing are required by law before a vaccine can be licensed. Once licensed and in use, vaccines are continuously monitored for safety.

Earn (and keep) more of your money

If you receive monthly Social Security or SSI payments, you received a 3.6 percent cost-of-living adjustment beginning with your payment for the month of January 2012.

Environmental regulations aim to prevent pollution from oil tank spills

The U.S. EPA and all 50 states have a wide variety of water pollution laws that prohibit a person from allowing oil to spill from tanks into streams, lakes and other water bodies.

Canned salmon good for omega-3s

Canned salmom-Does it have the same health benefits from omega-3 fatty acids?

I’m the mother of a junior Roger Ebert

Tami Lange has seen fighting robots, tail-less dolphins and one-armed surfers and has left the theater a bit happier because of it.

There are reasons to miss the snow

Ohioan's have a love-hate relationship with winter. We love the beauty of the freshly fallen, but hate the salted, slushy aftermath. And in the middle of a summer heat wave, we miss the snow.

2011 tax filing requirements for seniors

This Savvy Senior column includes a breakdown of the 2011 income tax filing requirements, along with a few other tax tips to help you determine if you need to file.

Another amazing week of January birding

Columnist Bruce Glick summarizes happenings in the local birding world. This week Bruce writes about more rare birds discovered during this unusual January.

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Political News & Events

Commissioners purchase land for new 9-1-1 tower site

New tower to improve reception, save county money.

Judge rules prosecutor acted without bias in bridge theft charges

Judge Rinfret recently denied a motion by Kenneth E. Taylor, 58, 4627 Township Road 55, that argued Prosecuting Attorney Steve Knowling has a conflict of interest in prosecuting theft charges against him.

Liberty group presents Candidates Night

Candidates Night set for Feb. 9.

Landfill bid awarded, commissioners start closure process

Commissioners accept second lowest bid, selection criteria was best and lowest.

Schmucker reappointed to seat on Holmes County Board of Elections

Wes Schmucker was reappointed to the Holmes County Board of Elections.

Secretary Husted receives additional signatures for citizen-initiated dog auctions statute

Secretary of State announces 4,086 signatures submitted from petitioners.

Bids are in to permanently close Holmes County Landfill

The Holmes County commissioners received a total of 13 bids on Wednesday, Jan. 11, submitted to close down the Holmes County Landfill permanently.

Fracking water contamination and road issues concern county commissioners

While hoping that the recent trend toward oil and gas drilling in the area will be a huge economic windfall, the Holmes County commissioners want to make sure steps are taken to ensure the county's tourism drawing power.

Ault takes over as county commissioner chair for 2012

The Holmes County commissioners began 2012 by appointing Rob Ault as their board chair.

Budget remains biggest issue for county commissioners in 2012

With plenty on their plate, the Holmes County commissioners will keep the 2012 budget at the top of their list for 2012.

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Public Records

Sheriff’s Reports, 02/04/12

Disabled vehicle assisted on SR 83, Hardy Township. Advice and information given on reports of a suspicious vehicle on SR 39, Washington Township, and an obstructed roadway on SR 754, Monroe Township.

Sheriff’s Reports, 01/30/12

Suspicious vehicle reported on SR 515, Walnut Creek. Dog complaint reported on S. Crawford St., Millersburg. Report taken of recovered property on CR 235, Salt Creek Township. Disabled vehicles reported on CR 35, Killbuck Township, and on E. Jackson, Millersburg. Suspicious vehicle reported on TR...

Sheriff’s Reports, 01/31/12

Reports taken of theft on SR 39, Hardy Township, and recovered property on SR 39, Washington Township.

Sheriff’s Reports, 02/01/12

Reports taken of breaking and entering on SR 39, Hardy Township, and threats on Depot St., Glenmont. Advice and information given on report of reckless operation on SR 83, Prairie Township. Reports taken of theft on SR 83, Mechanic Township, and breaking and entering on SR 83, Prairie...

Sheriff’s Reports, 02/02/12

Reports taken of threats on Nashville Rd., Glenmont, and breaking and entering on TR 569, Salt Creek Township, and on TR 606, Salt Creek Township. Civil stand by completed on SR 226, Ripley Township. Report taken of theft on TR 271, Monroe Township. Disabled vehicle assisted on SR 60, Monroe...

Sheriff’s Reports, 02/03/12

Reports taken of theft on CR 70, Clark Township, domestic violence on CR 189, Prairie Township, assault on SR 39, Monroe Township, and harassment on Mullet Dr., Killbuck.
Report taken of a one vehicle vs. deer non-injury accident at US 62 and TR 89, Killbuck Township.

Land Transfers, week of 01/23/12

Hardy Township
Kenneth L. Whitmyer to Fred L. Whitmyer, 3 acres, $75,000.
Donald G. Butler to Wengerd Family Rentals, LLC, Lot 87, $100,000.
Killbuck Township
Betty Jean Miller to Lori Kowatch, 2.878 acres, $115,000.

Vendor Licenses, week of 01/23/12

Hilltop Speedway, LLC, 2927 CR 150, Millersburg.
Valley Brake, LLC, 3119 SR 557, Baltic.
Melvin A. Yoder, 4918 TR 369, Millersburg.
Myron A. Miller, 4527 SR 557, Millersburg.

Millersburg Police Report, 01/23/12

Open door reported on Stony Creek Dr. Funeral procession escorted through town. Disturbance reported at a Massillon Rd. residence. Citizen assisted on N. Washington.

Millersburg Police Report, 01/24/12

Dog reported running at large on S. Washington. Parking complaint reported on Fairview Ave. Report taken of telephone harassment on S. Washington. Another agency assisted on S. Washington. Motorist assisted with a vehicle lockout on Glen Dr. Request made to check the well-being of a Massillon Rd.

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Local Calendar of Events


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