Sweetheart Deals

by Jessica Crossfield
February 6, 2010

Valentines Day is here again, and there are many options to choose for your sweetheart this year.

Larry Hall, of Baker and Baker Jewelers, suggests a gift that lasts forever. “We are offering our 24-karat gold rose again, a real rose dipped in solid gold,” he said. “We call it the rose that never dies.”

Baker and Baker Jewelers are also offering a special where if you spend $100 or more, you also receive a free dozen fresh roses which includes free delivery. “We have been doing this for 97 years,” Hall said. “And we are good at it.”

For a different approach to Valentines, Natural Remedies Spa offers a couple’s massage package that can bring a couple just a bit closer.

“It’s just nice to be able to do that experience together,” said Linda Moore, owner of Natural Remedies, about the spa treatment. The package includes two one-hour massages, followed by a sauna sitting and a paraffin hand treatment all done with the couple together for $109.

“Sometimes the men have to be drug in, but once they experience it, it’s a different story,” Moore said with a laugh. “They love it, and it’s really fun to watch.”

If jewelry or massages aren’t the first choice, perhaps consider flowers or chocolate. Two Peas in a Pod florist has a huge selection of Valentines Day Bouquets that would satisfy any sweetheart and Putnam Chocolate and Holl’s Swiss Chocolatier can make anyone’s day sweeter. Plus, there is always the classic homemade gift like a book of coupons, or personalized books of poems.
Whatever you decide to give your significant other this year, just make sure it is from the heart and that will mean more than anything else you can give.

Quick Tips
• Don't go with the first thing the comes into your mind just to get buying a gift over with--its pretty noticeable when you don't put much thought into it.

• If you've just started dating, there's no need to go overboard, but that doesn't mean you can't be creative either.

• If you don't know the person that well, something classic such as a romantic dinner or chocolates with a cute card is pretty effortless, yet sends the message that you care.

• You don't have to be a big spender to get the perfect gift. Something simple such as breakfast in bed or a romantic candle lit dinner at home will show how much you appreciate them, and can be pretty easy on your wallet.

• Make sure you know how your special someone feels about the holiday before you go all out or blow it off. While some consider Valentine's Day to be a stupid and useless holiday, others believe that the gifts received are an indicator of the strength of their relationship.

• Something personalized--or an item that will have real meaning to the person--can make the most romantic gift.

Letter to the Editor: Board of Education

by Wendy Myers
February 6, 2010

The Board of Education recently interviewed nine brave individuals for open positions. Thank you to Mary Ann Chamberlain, Ron Feathers, Toni Henry, John Lehman, Eric Pickrell, Lhan Weppler and Randy Wilson for your interest and willingness to serve.

We are happy that Don Atkins and Bill Hutchinson will join our ranks. We know they will bring forth energy and ideas to help our schools.

We have some tough times ahead—we are looking at serious financial deficits. There is no fat in our budget—instead, there is a short list of things that actually can be cut, and I would consider most of these not in the best interests of children. I know that all parents in this community want their children to have more options and offerings, not fewer.

With this in mind, it is very possible we will ask the community for more money. And it is too depressing to ask for only enough money to keep from making further cuts. Instead, we want to think more positively and develop a list of “Adds”. When we come back to the community for money, we want to ADD to our children’s education.
This is not to say that there will be no cuts. The Board will be meeting with administration, teachers and staff to analyze finances. We also want the community to consider options. But more importantly, we want you to talk to your neighbors and friends and help us develop a plan that ADDS back to our school. When we go on the ballot for money, we want everyone fully invested in what we are trying to do. You may provide us with your list of Adds by email, regular mail, or by attending a meeting on the fourth Monday of the month, the regular time set aside for board business.

This brings me to my second point:
When Greg, Karen and I interviewed candidates, the same point came up again and again. We asked everyone what serious obstacles the district faced, and besides money woes, everyone cited lack of community support. I know that times are tough. But the schools should be our shining star—this is our future. Our children need to know that they come first. If we demand excellence, we will get it. If we point fingers, complain incessantly and take glee in failure, our children will be mediocre and set up for failure themselves. Some students will escape to college, and knowing that their community doesn’t support children, will not be inclined to come back and raise families.

It is time to shift gears and become positive. I would like to walk in a room and not hear people complaining about a coach or teacher or lost game. Instead, I would like to hear people talking about great things happening here. Because for every bad thing you see, I can guarantee there are a hundred more positive ones. My daughter’s fifth grade teacher stays after school every day, helping kids with math. We have parents who volunteer hundreds of hours. We have cool programs in the middle school and high school, with Model UN, Gateway to Technology, and Project Lead the Way.
We can continue down a road of making cuts and making do. But that isn’t going to help our future and best educate our kids. Come to our meetings, get involved, and most importantly, start talking up the school to everyone. The past is the past—we have five people sitting here who are committed to this process and need to move forward fast. Please support this Board and help us make our schools shine.

Wendy Myers, Marietta OH

Letters to the Editor: O'Neill

by Fred O'Neill
February 6, 2010

While Democrats typically bicker among themselves over healthcare, and tremble in the wake of Republican Scott Brown's overhyped Senate victory in Massachusetts, Republicans are discovering that they are not immune from the "circular firing squad" mentality either. As GOPers strive hard to put forth an appearance of "enforced unity", breaks in their once-solid ranks are beginning to appear, causing numerous violations of Ronald Reagan's so-called "Eleventh Commandment" ("Thou shalt not speak ill of another Republican!") ...

The divisiveness has been prompted by the various "Tea Party" attempts to institutionalize a "litmus test" for GOP office-seekers. Any candidate who fails to conform to the far right "values" expressed by the "Teabaggers" is labeled a "RINO" ("Republican in Name Only"). A recent victim of this "purge" is former Florida Governor - and current candidate for the U.S. Senate - Charlie Crist, who incurred Teabagger wrath by supporting the Obama Recovery Act. Another potential "purgee" seems to be Arizona Senator (and former GOP Presidential candidate) John McCain (that's the "gratitude" he gets for scrapping so many of his own ideals to placate rightist fanatics). The "Tea Party" bunch in his state has transferred its allegiance to hotheaded rightwing radio pundit J.D. Hayworth. When Sarah Palin endorsed McCain over Hayworth, this former "heroine" of the righties was branded as a "traitorous" RINO. Other victims of far right attacks include Maine's Olimpia Snowe, South Carolina's Lindsey Graham and Ohio's George Voinovich ...

Though the FOX bunch avoids stating it out loud, the "Tea Party" movement has already begun to splinter into various sub-factions. Some of its members are starting to resemble, not so much the "noble American patriots" of 1776, as the ruthlessly bickering Girondists and Jacobins of the 1789 French Revolution (whose actions spawned the bloody "Reign of Terror"). Some of the more wised-up Teabaggers are beginning to realize that their so-galled "grass roots" protest against overblown government has been co-opted by opportunistic political hacks, Chamber-of-Commerce idealogues, and a greedy clutch of Wall Street and K-Street lobbyists - the same folks who created he economic mess that spawned their "righteous" anger in the first place ...

In all this, there might be some clues for a thus-far "clueless" electorate ... It might make them want to think twice about certain over-eager candidates for public office who, on one hand, spout "Tea Party" platitudes about "God given freedoms" and the "evils" of Big Government - while, on the other, envision ways to siphon the Stimulus money they once rejected into projects that benefit, not the general public, but a handful of "chosen" business associates ... Incumbents are not the only ones who speak with the proverbial "forked tongue"!

Removing "incompetent" office-holders is never a bad idea. However, if voters don't ask the wannabes some very hard questions about their intentions, they might be trading "mere incompetence" for "absolute corruption"!

Fred O'Neill, Marietta, OH

What Every Family Member Should Know About When It's Time To Search For A Senior Community - Pt 2

by Kenneth Strong
February 6, 2010

What Every Family Member Should Know About When It’s Time To Search For A Senior Health Care Community (Part Two)

The first scenario in last month’s article involved admission to a senior health care community because of an unexpected medical condition that made such an admission a necessity. Our next scenario is a planned admission. This is the hard part.

Scenario Number Two

You may have noticed some subtle changes in your loved one’s behavior, nothing too bizarre or dangerous, but changes that cannot be ignored. For example there may be evidence of some minor forgetfulness, perhaps personal hygiene has diminished, hair is not washed, there’s body odor, and fingernails are uncut, never polished or just dirty.

Maybe your loved one is showing signs of short temper or aggression, striking out at you or others. You may have noticed visible weight loss or bruises on his or her arms and legs. A neighbor may have called you at work to inform you about finding your loved one roaming the streets.

Until recently your loved one may have been an immaculate housekeeper or always well dressed. His or her mail may be piling up unopened or there may be an unusual number of packages arriving from QVC. His or her checkbook may have far too many checks written to unknown agencies or lotteries from overseas. His or her car, formerly in good condition, may have unexplained dings and dents or the police department may have taken his or her driver’s license. By now perhaps you have your own additions to scenario number two.

So, what do you do? First I suggest that you keep a journal as these things begin to happen. Make sure to record the date and time of each event. At some point your level of comfort with your loved one being alone or with your ability to provide care will reach its limit. Because you’ve recorded the events in detail your physician or other caregiver will be in a better position to make an appropriate recommendation for the benefit of your loved one. Some of the options may be adult day care, home health care or a companion.

You may have wonderful memories of your loved one being healthy, vibrant, active and engaging, but that is not what you are seeing and experiencing now. You are determined to do anything necessary to avoid placing your loved one in a senior health care community and to provide the care required and support, but there is a danger in that.

The danger is that many times the caregiver’s health and financial resources fail. In some cases the excessive energy required to care for a loved one results in the premature death of the caregiver or divorce of the adult child (usually the daughter) taking care of an ill, aging parent. You must not sacrifice your health, your family or your financial resources to care for a loved one.

Two of your goals should be to protect your loved one from self-neglect and to improve his or her quality of life. That’s why we are going to learn how to find a great nursing home.

Now the question becomes which senior health care community is the best option for your loved one and you? (I will be discussing each of these options in future articles.)

It is best to have an array of options rather than advice when talking about moving to a senior health care community. Ask your loved one to share his or her thoughts about making a move. You want to make it an open conversation without framing it with your values and needs. While the senior years may be a rewarding time full of adventure and satisfaction it is also a time of loss of loved ones, friends, independence and health. Think of yourself as a guide rather than a decision maker as to what is best for your loved one, especially as an adult child.

Treat your loved one with dignity and respect, tell them that you love them and you will be there for them no matter what happens in the future. If possible involve siblings in the discussions to avoid conflicting messages and confusion. I urge you to begin these discussions prior to an event that makes the decision for you. Remember it is a very emotional time to decide to move to a senior health care community.

Until Next Month
Enjoy the Moment

Kenneth E. Strong Jr. is the Executive Director of Glenwood Retirement Community

City Planning

by Harley Noland
February 6, 2010

Growing up in Marietta, I did not give much thought to how our city was planned. It wasn’t until I was enrolled in architectural school that I came to appreciate Marietta’s rectangular block and street pattern; the common lands that edge our rivers; and the setting aside of land for parks. These were all planned before Rufus Putnam arrived here. This far-sighted planning laid the foundation that has served us well for centuries. Good planning involves practical matters – esthetics and respect for your land and your neighbors’ land. The founders of Marietta did not just pull their flatboats ashore and start a frontier town. They had a plan. They employed professional surveyors to help them lay out their vision of what would become Marietta. This commitment to good planning and visioning produced the wonderful city in which we have the pleasure to work and live.

On January 1, 2010, I was sworn in for my second term to serve the citizens of Marietta as councilman-at-large. With the new term of council, I was assigned the chairmanship of the Public Lands and Buildings Committee. In this capacity, I hope to follow our founders’ example by working to develop positive visioning and deliberate planning that will serve the citizens for many years to come. A comprehensive city plan should guide the decision-making process – not the politics of the day.

The world and our city are ever changing and we must plan for that evolution so Marietta can continue to be a profitable place to work, a pleasant place to live, and a good place to educate our citizens. By formulating long-range goals and then crafting plans to reach those goals, we will not get off track when distractions occur. A good example of progressive planning happened when the elm disease began to kill the city’s trees. The Tree Commission was formed to reforest our city. This long-term plan that our city leaders have supported through many administrations of lining our streets with trees is a passive way to cool our city as well as an attractive feature. Another example of good long-range planning is our city zoning code. Zoning is designed to protect neighborhoods and to guide development. You don’t have to travel far to find cities that have unplanned sprawls. Marietta has an entirely different appearance from those communities. Planning in Marietta is implemented by the administration and city council, but the most important part of the planning process is input from you, the citizens.

One of the best aspects of serving on city council is hearing from the citizens and visitors who share with me their dreams, hopes, and concerns for Marietta. It is wonderful to live in a town where so many of its citizens possess a strong passion for their hometown, whether home-grown or adopted. I welcome citizen input and as a member of city council, I will continue to seek out diverse opinions and viewpoints. Marietta has always been a town of dedicated volunteers not afraid to get involved. This is our city and we all must take part in improving Marietta’s future. With declining operation budgets and increasing expenses, to make progress, we all need to pitch in. Just look at what volunteers accomplished in repairing the old train bridge. There are other projects that need willing hands and you will be hearing from me to ask for your help. Please join your neighbors in the rewarding work of preserving our beautiful history and building for an even more bountiful future.

Harley Noland
Marietta City Councilman-at-large

Salem Candles to Reopen in New Location

by Jessica Crossfield
February 6, 2010

After seven years at 112 Putnam Street, Salem Candles is making a change, and so is Diane Griffin.

The shop will be moving across the street into Putnam Commons after some big changes in Griffin’s life.

“My husband died two years ago, and I recently became a guardian of my two grandchildren,” said Griffin, Salem Candles owner for the past seven years. “I just don’t have time to be here all the time.”

Griffin was afraid she was going to have to close the shop, but thanks to the help of Joe's Hotz N Brotz owner in Putnam Commons, Joe Brandjes, Griffin is able to remain open while taking some time for herself and her grandchildren.

“He needed more inventory, and I needed help,” Griffin said. “It will be so much easier for me.”

Griffin bought the shop seven years ago with her husband after working in retail at Baker & Baker Jewelers for 16 years. Her and her husband were ready for their own shop and decided to buy Salem Candles.

“I like working with people,” Griffin said about working in retail. “I really enjoy that.”

Salem Candles will be moving their inventory over to Brandjes’s bead shop in Putnam Commons. Brandjes will run and oversee the shop, and Griffin will help out and run inventory as she can.

“I will be able to come and go, but still my hand in it,” Griffin said.
Brandjes found out about Griffin’s situation and plan to close through her brother-in-law and felt he had to step in.

“He’s been really good to me,” Griffin said about Brandjes.

Salem Candles will be closing for the move from January 25-30 and will reopen at Putnam Commons at 121 Putnam Street on February 1. The shop hours will be 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

Griffin now plans to spend more time with her grandchildren, two girls ages 2 and a half and 21 months, and take more time at home.

“I need time with them,” Griffin said. “And I think this will work out great.”

Garrison Bows Out

by Callie Lyons
February 6, 2010

After six months on the campaign trail and dozens of statewide endorsements, State Representative Jennifer Garrison announced Saturday that she was pulling out of the race for Ohio Secretary of State.

Garrison has not been available for comment since releasing her statement over the weekend.

“I have truly enjoyed meeting Ohioans from all walks of life during the 6 month campaign. Ohio is blessed to have a diverse landscape and people. I feel thankful and humbled by the support I have received from my colleagues, labor and Ohioans.” Garrison said. “While I have determined this is not the right time for me and my family to seek this office, my utmost hope is that the voters will challenge all Secretary of State Candidates to explain how they will increase voter participation and facilitate business growth in Ohio.”

Presumptive republican candidate Jon Husted, former speaker of the house, has raised $2 million in pursuit of the seat. However Garrison had raised only a fraction of that amount, roughly one-tenth, according to January reports.

Even so, it seemed likely that Garrison would capture the democratic nomination in the primary election until rumblings in the media last week that state party leaders were trying to supplant the candidate in favor of someone more liberal. Washington County Democratic Party Chair Molly Varner said she is not sure that is accurate.

“I can’t answer that,” Varner said. “I know what the Dispatch stories make it look like, but I think that’s more speculation than anything else.”

Garrison said she will not seek re-election to the 93rd House District.

Varner said Garrison is such a good representative for the people of her district that it’s hard to imagine the local political scene without her.

“I’m very disappointed in that also. To lose Jenny as state representative and also to lose the potential that she’ll be secretary of state,” Varner said. “She’s bright. She’s thorough. She keeps close contact with folks in the district. I just can’t imagine not having Jenny Garrison as state rep.”

Garrison’s statement Saturday revealed that she hopes to have made a difference in the race even if it will go forward without her participation.

“I ask the next Secretary of State to be committed to the principles of transparent and fair elections and to concentrate on increasing voter participation,” Garrison said. “House Bill 260, otherwise known as the Elections Enhancement Bill is a good start. This legislation requires automatic voter registration every time an Ohioan touches state government, whether through renewing a driver’s license or applying for state benefits. This bill goes a long way toward increasing voter participation and reducing allegations of fraud within the voter registration process. I ask both Republican and Democratic candidates to commit their support for this bill.”

On Monday, the Ohio Democratic Party announced that Franklin County Common Pleas Clerk Maryellen O’Shaughnessy will soon announce her candidacy for Secretary of State with the support of state party chair Chris Redfern and Governor Ted Strickland.

While Garrison’s political future seems uncertain, Varner says she’s sure we haven’t heard the last of her.

“I’m sure whatever she does next will benefit our area - because you can’t keep a good woman down,” Varner said.

The Cook Shop

by James Maddox
February 6, 2010

The Cook’s Shop’s co-owner, Ken Kupsche, said that getting Marietta’s newest storefront up and running all goes back to the construction of 180 Front Street in 1912.

“People that walk in the door have no clue that this space even existed, because the façade was bricked up and the windows were boarded since 1936,” said Kupsche. “And the few that had been in here remembered it as being cold and dark, with holes in the floor. Kind of scary.”

Although all of the above is why it took so long to rehabilitate the retail space, one of the things that intrigued Ken and his wife Dagmar was that it still had the old tin ceiling and the original floors.

“We wanted to keep all that, wanted to keep the character of the space, and to do that takes a lot of time and effort,” said Kupsche.

As for what to put into the building, the Kupsches decided on a common hobby: Cooking. As Ken’s background is retail, he said running a retail shop such as The Cook’s Shop was an easy thing to roll into.

“We wanted to do something that we both enjoyed. Something that we both had an interest and a passion in,” said Kupsche. “Because I learned a long time ago, if it’s not fun and you don’t have fun doing it, then there’s no reason to mess around with it.”

Kupsche also said he wants to keep the store as affordable as possible for local shoppers.

“We have people who will shop online, then come here and they’ll be looking at the same price points or better. We’ve purposely tried to do that,” said Kupsche. “We’re a ‘Ma & Pa’ store and we’re going to try and make it here in town based on that pricing structure.”

The Cook’s Shop owners also believe it is important to promote items that are made in the USA, so the business has tried to get as many American-made products on their shelves as possible. These products range from kitchen gadgetry to cutlery to gourmet herbs and spices.

Starting in February or March, Kupsche said the shop will be offer cooking demonstrations and classes for their customers. Classes will be hosted by local chefs and some sales representatives, and will be limited in number—probably somewhere between 12 and 20 people. Classes will be held week nights and will likely take place twice a month.

The Cook’s Shop is located at 180 Front St., and can be reached by phone at (740) 538-6003. The store’s hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday.

New Municipal Courtroom Won't Serve as Council Chambers

by Callie Lyons
February 6, 2010

Though the City of Marietta has a number of accessibility and space issues involving most departments and facilities, it doesn’t appear that those problems will be alleviated by having the newly renovated municipal court building provide space for city council chambers.

In a recent luncheon meeting of the Public Lands and Buildings committee, council members and local judges weighed in on the complications involved with sharing space.
The city administration is preparing to relocate city departments as the court vacates their current facility at City Hall.

A rough sketch by the engineering department proposing the placement of city departments would move the city auditor’s office and treasurer’s office to the first floor of 301 Putnam Street where they would occupy space currently serving the mayor and law director’s offices.

The administration’s proposal for the re-use of City Hall did not include council chambers, which led Councilman Harley Noland, who chairs the Public Lands and Buildings Committee, to explore other options – including the new municipal courtroom.

“In my discussions with Kevin (Crock) it is quite clear that when the court vacates its square footage in city hall there really isn’t that much space there,” Noland said. “There’s a fraction of the space needed. And, Kevin has put together a plan – a rough sketch of space allocation – that to me seems quite logical and very workable without a huge amount of shuffling.”

No matter where council meets, Noland said it is still essential to know how much space council needs. But, Councilman Jon Grimm explained that during the last term of council the former Public Lands and Buildings Committee reviewed the space requirements for all city departments in anticipation of some relocation.

“When we did do the program requirements, we found that the engineering department, with the exception of the court, had the largest square foot requirements,” Grimm said.

No matter who moves to City Hall, an elevator will have to be installed in order to make the facility handicapped accessible.

“We have an opportunity right now in a slight reconfiguration of a municipal courtroom to allow us the opportunity to plan to come up with a better facilities plan than continually to put band-aids on things or making do,” Grimm said.

Noland noted that the courtroom is used during the day and council only needs a meeting room two evenings a month.

“I don’t see there’s a conflict of space allocation and the usage of both are places of public assembly,” Noland said. “To me it’s space that exists that we don’t have to duplicate and with budgets as they are we simply don’t have the money to duplicate.”

But not everyone agreed that the court should be opened up to council after hours.
“I don’t think, it’s my opinion, but there are three branches of government – administrative or executive, legislative and judicial,” said Council President Paul Bertram. “We have a building at 301 Putnam Street that could very well be council chambers as well as our clerk’s office. That’s where I think we ought to focus. We are now 50 to 60 percent into the design phase at the municipal court building, which is the OBES and now we’re going to have to switch things around because we have all these different requirements of security issues and such. I just think this is wrong. We need a home, but I don’t believe we need to be in that office, in that building.”

Councilperson Kathy Shively agreed, saying the current court facility could easily be transformed into council chambers.

“I have been thinking about the three branches of government and how easy it would be to use the current court as our assembly room up there,” Shively said. “I’m not an architect or an engineer, but I can envision taking one end . . . and we could fit in Cathy’s room and a storage room plus a meeting room for everybody to use.”
She questioned the administration’s plan for the rest of the building.

“I do think that we’re putting the wrong offices in that – the income tax and the treasurer’s office. Those offices don’t work as closely with the mayor as the engineering and development offices,” Shively said.

Juvenile Court Judge Timothy Williams said the council chambers should be located in a city building – not the municipal court building.

“When I read that proposal I was concerned,” Williams said. “It may be available in the evenings but it’s a dedicated court facility and as a judge I need to be careful of how it’s laid out and who uses that building.”

Councilman Jon Grimm said the city needs a larger facilities plan that will address the current and future needs of the city, including a plan to make all departments accessible.

“One of the things I’d like to accomplish with my new committee assignment is a broader plan,” Grimm said.” That would also impact what we’re talking about here. We can certainly react as we have before – build this here, shoehorn that in there. Or we can look at this more of an overall plan and make this fit together, which I think is more appropriate.”

Red Cross Shelter Open

February 6, 2010

A message from the Washington County Emergency Management Agency:

With more than 3,000 homes without power in Washington County due to the winter storm, the Washington County chapter of the American Red Cross is opening a shelter tonight at the First Presbyterian Church at Fourth & Scammel Streets in Marietta. The shelter will open at 6:00 p.m. Red Cross volunteers will serve dinner tonight and breakfast on Sunday. For more information or assistance, call the Red Cross in Marietta at (740) 373-0281.

Suspected Heroin Courier Arrested

February 6, 2010

At 1700 hours on 6 Feb 2010 Agents with the Major Crimes Task Force and Detectives and Uniformed Officers of the Washington County Sheriff's Office conducted an interdiction traffic stop on IS-77 near Milepost 13. Arrested was Kyle A. Morris, age 28, 103 Muskingum Drive, Marietta, OH for possession of 86 balloons of heroin and approximately two grams of cocaine. Morris was originally stopped for speeding and later admitted the drugs hidden under the front seat belonged to him. Morris was arrested and transported to the Washington County Jail where he is being held on a F3 and F5 drug possession charge. The drugs have a street value of approximately $5,000.

Web Extra: Council Hears PD Lock-Out Service Concerns

by Kylie Smith
February 5, 2010

Public safety was on the agenda at the Marietta City Council meeting held at Lookout Park on Thursday night.

Mayor Michael Mullen began the meeting with a warning to the public concerning the minimum 10 inches of snow expected to fall this Saturday.

“Its going to make it very treacherous out there and we hope you consider your travel plans in the city judiciously,” Mullen said.

Mullen also announced that high traffic areas, particularly around hospitals and schools, will be pretreated before the snowfall. He asked the public to be aware of the snow trucks while driving and said that crews will be out in full force.

“We’re prepared for the worst and hoping for the best.” Mullen said.

On a more positive note, Mullen touched on the recent shortfalls in income tax receipts from 2009 and their effect on the city budget.

“I am very pleased to announce that as of the end of January, the last quarter of 2009 came in right on budget,” Mullen said. “This recession is deeply seated, so we will continue to meet with council...to keep our budget on a very close watch. We’re pleased that it’s back on track.”

Mullen also announced the retirement of Captain Dan Hale, who has served over 26 years with the Marietta Fire Dept.

“We want to wish Captain Hale the very best in his future endeavors and thank him for the many years of service and dedication to our fair community,” Mullen said.

Hale was officially recognized by the council in the adoption of Resolution No. 5, which expressed appreciation for his services to the citizens of Marietta.

Ted Wigal, the new owner of Ace Lock at 122 Front St., addressed the council concerning the Marietta Police Department preparing lock-out jobs on cars for no charge, as well as the recently proposed change to charging a $40 fee. While some media reports concerning the police lock-out jobs reported that local businesses charge fees upwards of $60, Mr. Wigal stated that Ace Lock always has charged a fee of only $35 on a 24/7 availability.

“My concern here is that the police department is being taken away from their job that they’re supposed to be doing and what the taxpayers are paying them for.” Wigal stated.

Wigal also mentioned the effect these free lock outs have had on local businesses.

“With 366 lock outs performed, that’s quite a chunk of change taken out of a business, especially a new business that I’ve taken over and am struggling to make succeed,” Wigal said.

Councilman Andy Thompson, R-At Large, thanked Wigal for making a “valid point”. Councilman Michael McCauley, D-2nd Ward, a former law enforcement officer, also pointed out that Marietta is the only police department in the area that performs lock-outs on cars in non-emergency situations.

An Ordinance and Emergency Resolution unanimously adopted concerned the recent pipe damage that flooded the basement of the Marietta Wastewater Treatment Plant. The legislation will allow for the Director of Public Safety and Service to make bids for the disposal of the sewage sludge from the plant into a sanitary landfill. Councilmen McCauley said the Emergency Resolution passed will allow for “a consulting service to be used to assess the damages and allow for repair.”

Five Ordinances and two Emergency Resolutions were also unanimously passed involving:

Transfer and appropriation of funds within the Municipal Court, including a salary for a part-time IT specialist, computer expenses, alcohol abuse treatment services for indigent offenders, and anticipated professional service expenses related to the upcoming renovation.

Installation of 16 handicapped ramps around Marietta.

Resurfacing of the sidewalk between the Putnam St. Bridge and Gilman Ave.

Change order to the contract with Church Commercial Services, regarding the installment of new fence posts in Mound Cemetery, not to exceed $20,000.

Total concrete pavement replacement on State Rt.7 at the IR 77 interchange, including lighting and signal upgrades.

Entering a contract with professional architectural services to evaluate possible renovations to City Hall’s second floor – the future potential City Council meeting room.

Washington County Sheriff's Office News Releases for Friday 5 Feb 10

February 5, 2010

On 3 Feb 10 Cristina Newlon, age 38, 307 Third Street, Lowell, reported sometime overnight an unknown suspect(s) threw an object and cracked the windshield of her 2006 Ford Mustang. This case remains under investigation (296).

On 3 Feb 10 an employee of Par Mar, 17785 State Route 7, Marietta, reported the driver of a 2000 gold Chrysler drove off without paying for $20.01 in gasoline. This case remains under investigation (790).

On 4 Feb 10 Sgt. Underwood and Deputy Sheriff Simmons responded to the scene of death of a fifty-seven year old New Matamoras resident. Though the woman’s death does not appear suspicious, the body was transported to Montgomery County for an autopsy.

On 5 Feb 10 Heather Strahler, age 36, 1706 Lowell Hill Road, Lowell, reported when she arrived home that morning she noticed her son Tyler Rockhold, age 19, appeared intoxicated and was having trouble standing. Ms. Stahler said she did not know where her son got the alcohol and stated he became combative when she confronted about a fire he built in the back yard. Ignoring his mother’s plea for him to go to sleep, Mr. Rockhold grabbed his mother by the neck and punched her in the head. Ms. Strahler commented that her son also grabbed her forcefully by the arm as she was phoning for help. Viewing Ms. Strahler’s injuries, Deputy Sheriff Underwood arrested Mr. Rockhold for domestic violence and underage consumption of alcohol and transported him to the Washington County Jail.

The following suspects were processed into the Washington County Jail between Thursday 4 Feb 10 and Friday 5 Feb 10:

Bryan Graham Beaver III, age 31, 599 Hadley Hollow Road, Marietta, for contempt of a court order. Beaver turned himself in to Corrections Officer Sheaves and was processed into the Washington County Jail on 4 Feb 10 at 11:45 am.

Nathan Scott Tewkesbury, age 25, 521 Barclay Street, Belpre, for violating the terms of his probation, a misdemeanor. Tewkesbury was arrested at the office of Probation Officer Brockmeier and processed into the Washington County Jail on 4 Feb 10 at 11:58 am.

Robert Jonathan Huffman, age 29, 797 Channel Lane, Marietta, for breach of recognizance and for criminal trespassing, both misdemeanors. Huffman was arrested at his residence by Patrolman Thomas of the Marietta City Police Department and processed into the Washington County Jail on 5 Feb 10 at 1:00 am.

Tyler Anthony Rockhold, age 19, 1706 Lowell Hill Road, Lowell, for domestic violence and for underage consumption of alcohol, both misdemeanors. Rockhold was arrested at his residence by Deputy Sheriff Anderson and processed into the Washington County Jail on 5 Feb 10 at 5:00 am.

There are currently eighty-one men and twenty women being housed in the Washington County Jail.

MMH Earns Quality Respiratory Care Recognition in National Program

February 5, 2010

Marietta Memorial Hospital has earned Quality Respiratory Care Recognition (QRCR) under a national program aimed at helping patients and families make informed decisions about the quality of the respiratory care services available in the hospitals.

About 700 hospitals or approximately 15 percent of hospitals in the United States have applied for and received this award. The QRCR program was started by the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) in 2003 to help consumers identify those facilities using qualified respiratory therapists to provide respiratory care. Hospitals earning the QRCR designation ensure patient safety by agreeing to adhere to a strict set of criteria governing their respiratory care services.

To qualify for the recognition, Marietta Memorial Hospital provided documentation showing it meets the following conditions:

All respiratory therapists employed by the hospital to deliver bedside respiratory care services are either legally recognized by the state as competent to provide respiratory care services or hold the CRT or RRT credential. Respiratory therapists are available 24 hours a day.

Other personnel qualified to perform specific respiratory procedures and the amount of supervision required for personnel to carry out specific procedures must be designated in writing.

A doctor of medicine or osteopathy is designated as medical director of respiratory care services.

The Memorial Health System is a not-for-profit health system governed by a volunteer board of community members that are committed to providing comprehensive services that meet the needs of our region. We are comprised of a network of two hospitals, outpatient service sites, assisted and long-term care facilities and a retirement community. We work in innovative ways to meet the healthcare challenges of today, while preparing for health needs of our communities in the future.

Washington County Sheriff's Office News Releases for Tuesday 2 Feb 10

February 4, 2010

On 27 Jan 10 Sgt. Norman responded to the scene of death of a fifty year old Bartlett resident. The woman’s family stated the victim was battling cancer and finally succumbed to the disease.

On 27 Jan 10 Deputy Sheriff Caltrider responded to a report from the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office in North Carolina indicating a vehicle occupied by three runaway juveniles was parked along the Macksburg exit on Interstate 77. Lt. Stackpole and Deputy Caltrider took custody of the thirteen year old boy and two fifteen year old boys and transported them to the Washington County Juvenile Center where they were later picked up by their parents.

On 1 Feb 10 the Sheriff’s Office received these warrants:

Bryan G. Beaver, age 31, 599 Hadley Hollow Road, Marietta, for failure to appear at a court ordered hearing on an order to show cause on 25 Jan 10.

Timothy L. Rogers, age 30, 1618 Beaver Street Apt. 4, Parkersburg, for failing to appear for sentencing on 27 Jan 10.

Samuel Seckman, age 68, 49270 Bissell Road, Long Bottom, for tampering with records on multiple occasions between 14 Nov 08 and 30 Sep 09.

The following suspects were processed into the Washington County Jail between Monday 1 Feb 10 and Tuesday 2 Jan 10:

Joseph Allen Sunderman, age 33, 808 Dewy Avenue, Saint Marys, for theft, a misdemeanor. Sunderman was arrested at Wal-Mart by Patrolman Blasko of the Marietta City Police Department and processed into the Washington County Jail on 1 Feb 10 at 1:20 pm.

David Allan Reed, age 45, 2509 Gihon Road, Parkersburg, for possession of drug paraphernalia, a misdemeanor. Reed was arrested at the Hampton Inn by Patrolman Nohe of the Marietta City Police Department and processed into the Washington County Jail on 1 Feb 10 at 6:00 pm.

Samantha C. Robinson, age 28, 814 ½ 27th Street, Vienna, for theft and for failure to appear at a court ordered hearing on unpaid fines, both misdemeanors. Robinson was arrested at Kroger by Patrolman Fields of the Belpre City Police Department and processed into the Washington County Jail on 1 Feb 10 at 6:35 pm.

Keon Raymond Gibson, age 25, 669 Blossom Greenway, Canal Winchester, OH, for possession of drugs, a felony. Gibson was arrested at the Hampton Inn by Detective Huffman of the Marietta City Police Department and processed into the Washington County Jail on 1 Feb 10 at 9:05 pm.

Lawrence Matthew Garner, age 28, for tampering with evidence, illegally manufacturing drugs and for two counts of possession of drugs, all felonies. Garner was arrested at the Hampton Inn by Detective Huffman of the Marietta City Police Department and processed into the Washington County Jail on 1 Feb 10 at 9:25 pm.

Eliot Franklin Richardson, age 39, 98 Acme Street Apt. 6, Marietta, for failure to appear, a misdemeanor. Richardson was arrested at his residence by Patrolman Arbaugh of the Marietta City Police Department and processed into the Washington County Jail on 1 Feb 10 at 9:35 pm.

Cassaundra L. McCormick, age 27, for tampering with evidence, a felony. McCormick was arrested at the Hampton Inn by Detective Huffman of the Marietta City Police Department and processed into the Washington County Jail on 1 Feb 10 at 9:55 pm.

Joshua Leroy Gore, age 21, 130 Cemetery Drive, New Matamoras, for violating the terms of his probation, a misdemeanor. Gore was arrested at the intersection of Fourth and Greene streets in Marietta by the Ohio State Highway Patrol and processed into the Washington County Jail on 2 Feb 10 at 12:45 am.

There are currently seventy-eight men and eighteen women being housed in the Washington County Jail.

Washington County Sheriff's Office News Releases for Wed 3 Feb 10

February 4, 2010

On 2 Feb 10 Tamela L. Barth, age 45, 570 Handschumaker Road, Marietta, reported her husband became upset during a discussion with their twelve year old son over his poor grades in school. Mrs. Barth said her husband left the house to calm down and later apologized for his actions over the phone. Determining no threat or physical confrontation occurred, Deputy Sheriff Mayle closed this case as unfounded.

On 2 Feb 10 Michael Slowter, age 34, 2339 W. Coler Road, Malta, severed approximately half an inch off his left ringer finger as the result of an accident at Adkins Timber Products at 22180 State Route 60, Beverly. Mr. Slowter was stacking lumber as it exited the saw mill when a board from the top of the stack fell on top of his left hand. The Beverly-Waterford emergency squad transported Mr. Slowter to Marietta Memorial Hospital for treatment (208).

On 2 Feb 10 Rosemary Cantley, age 46, 1043 Gantsville Road, Little Hocking, reported an argument with her son Joshua, age 20, erupted during a disagreement over her son’s use of her car. Mrs. Cantley stated she was not going to allow her son to take the car because he was not attending college or working. As she walked from the living room into the kitchen, Mrs. Cantley said her son grabbed two knives from a knife block and commented that she was not going to take his car away. In fear for her safety, Mrs. Cantley phoned 911 and her brother in law for help. Based on the statement of Mrs. Cantley, Sgt. Norman arrested Mr. Cantley for domestic violence and transported him to the Washington County Jail.

The following suspects were processed into the Washington County Jail between Tuesday 2 Jan 10 and Wednesday 3 Feb 10:

Matthew James Sinclair, age 20, 830 ½ Third Street, Marietta, for violating the terms of his probation, a felony. Sinclair was arrested at the Adult Parole Office by Deputy Sheriff Malone and processed into the Washington County Jail on 2 Feb 10 at 10:59 am.

Charles Lewis Sexton Sr., age 47, 1209 Cisler Drive Apt. D, Marietta, for violating the terms of his probation, a misdemeanor. Sexton was arrested at the office of Probation Officer Hamilton and processed into the Washington County Jail on 2 Feb 10 at 12:49 pm.

Joshua Ryan Cantley, age 20, 1043 Gantsville Road, Little Hocking, for domestic violence, a misdemeanor. Cantley was arrested at his residence by Sgt. Norman of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and processed into the Washington County Jail on 2 Feb 10 at 6:00 pm.

Samuel Homer Seckman, age 68, 49270 Bissell Road, Long Bottom, OH, for tampering with records, a felony. Seckman was arrested in Meigs County by the Meigs County Sheriff’s Office and processed into the Washington County Jail on 2 Feb 10 at 6:07 pm.

Tracy Ernest Allen, age 37, 171 Saunders Run Road, Walker, WV, for violating the terms of a protection order, a felony. Allen was arrested in Belpre by Patrolman Hunter of the Belpre City Police Department and processed into the Washington County Jail on 3 Feb 10 at 1:53 am.

Jesse Ryan Jadwin, age 21, 4512 State Route 376 Apt. 141, McConnelsville, for failure to appear at a court ordered hearing on unpaid fines, a misdemeanor. Jadwin was arrested in Marietta Municipal Court by Patrolman Ellenwood of the Marietta City Police Department and processed into the Washington County Jail on 3 Feb 10 at 9:21 am.

There are currently seventy-eight men and twenty-four women being housed in the Washington County Jail.

Washington County Sheriff's Office News Releases for Thursday 4 Feb 10

February 4, 2010

On 3 Feb 10 Lynn M. Williams, age 46, 855 Bethel Road, Marietta, reported she was seated in her living room when she heard her back open. When she walked back to investigate, Ms. Williams said she heard the door slam shut and someone running off her deck. Sgt. Underwood and Deputy Sheriff Anderson patrolled the area but were unable to locate and suspects. This case remains under investigation.

On 3 Feb 10 Tammy Ruth, age 45, 1630 Braun Road, Belpre, reported her seventeen year old son and another of the home’s residents were involved in a heated verbal argument. Phoning for help before the argument escalated further, Ms. Ruth commented that she eased tensions utilizing techniques she learned in her family parenting classes. Ms. Ruth also said she argued with her son earlier but neither party assaulted or threatened the other. Based on the statements of the involved parties, Deputy Sheriff Carr closed this case as unfounded.

On 4 Feb 10 the Sheriff’s Office received these warrants:

Daniel Shaffer, age 36, 63 Dunn Lane, New Matamoras, for failing to appear to serve forty-five days in jail on 24 Jan 10.

Gary L. Mayle, age 32, 201 State Street, Marietta, for failing to appear for pretrial on 29 Jan 10.

The following suspects were processed into the Washington County Jail between Wednesday 3 Feb 10 and Thursday 4 Jan 10:

Mitchell Dean Needs, age 30, 2360 State Route 266, Stockport, for unlawful sexual conduct with a minor, a felony. Needs was picked up at SEPTA by Deputy Sheriff Underwood and processed into the Washington County Jail on 3 Feb 10 at 2:24 pm.

Jonathon Mark Dexter, age 30, 16 Pioneer Village, Athens, for failure to appear, a felony. Dexter was picked up at the Athens county line by Sgt. Underwood of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and processed into the Washington County Jail on 3 Feb 10 at 6:57 pm.

William Thomas Klintworth, age 46, Watertown Road, Watertown, for OVI and for driving outside the marked lanes of travel, both misdemeanors. Klintworth was arrested near milepost eighteen on State Route 7 by the Ohio State Highway Patrol and processed into the Washington County Jail on 3 Feb 10 at 9:22 pm.

Eric Brandon Siders, age 21, 6070 Sandhill Road, Marietta, for failure to appear, theft and for passing bad checks, all misdemeanors. Siders was arrested on Gilman Street by the Ohio State Highway Patrol and processed into the Washington County Jail on 4 Feb 10 at 3:06 am.

There are currently seventy-five men and twenty-one women being housed in the Washington County Jail.

Web Extra: Council Re-examines Courthouse Energy Recommendations

by Kylie Smith
February 3, 2010

Possible errors in an energy consumption analysis may be yet another delay in the decades-long struggle to provide a new home for the Marietta Municipal Court. The analysis, performed by KORDA Engineering, cost the City of Marietta around $10,000 and examined several HVAC systems for installation in the former OBES building. KORDA presented their report to City Council in December, recommending a variable air volume system that gave an estimated heating cost around $8,000 per year. While the analysis report was immediately approved by the Council, concerns were voiced within hours that the KORDA estimates were too low and unrealistic.

David Haas, of Morrison, Inc., a local HVAC installation company, was present at the December meeting and directly expressed this apprehension to City Engineer Joe Tucker. Haas, with more than 25 years experience with HVAC systems, performed his own peripheral energy analysis in which he found operational costs to be an additional $2 more per square foot versus KORDA’s projections - an annual difference of around $20,000. This analysis was then sent to KORDA for review, at which point they rejected Haas’s estimate as “excessively high”, giving numeric figures to prove their own perceived validity.

City Council directly addressed this matter in a committee meeting of the whole on February 2. Both Tucker and Haas presented additional yet separate facts, figures and other data associated with the future HVAC system cost, including KORDA’s own repudiation and recent energy consumption data from three of the current city office buildings. Councilman Jon Grimm, R-3rd ward, proposed exploring this issue further before making any permanent decisions, “to justify these numbers and make sure we did make the proper decision.” It was generally agreed upon by the Council that KORDA may sustain further inquiries about their report’s legitimacy after Haas and Tucker perform more in-depth calculations.

Frustration was felt with yet another stall in renovating the new municipal courthouse. However Councilman Andy Thompson, R-At Large, did emphasize the necessity of further review.

“This is important and not about delaying the project. It’s about getting this right for the long term,” Thompson said.

Seckman Arrested in Conjunction with Light Bulb Scheme

February 3, 2010

WASHINGTON COUNTY SHERIFF OFFICE
SPECIAL NEWS RELEASE FOR TUESDAY 2 FEB 2010

On November 9, 2009 in conjunction with the Meigs County Sheriff’s Office and the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Identification, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the Major Crimes Task Force executed search warrants at properties owned by Samuel Seckman at 49270 Bissell Road, Long Bottom, OH, and at 42177 State Route 7, Tuppers Plains, OH.

The search warrants were part of an investigation into allegations that Seckman, under the guise of his company called Universal Products, sold the Washington County Commissioners $40,000 worth of light bulbs, a majority of which were never delivered. Seckman also allegedly submitted invoices for chemicals that were never delivered.

In the affidavit requesting the search warrant in Meigs County Common Pleas Court, Detective Scott Parks alleges that former maintenance supervisor Chuck Moody bragged about receiving kickbacks from “Sam, that light bulb guy,” and of 143 cases light bulbs ordered; only thirty-eight were delivered. During that search over $24,000 in cash was recovered from a safe located in Seckman’s home.

On February 1, 2010, based upon information obtained during the search warrant and other investigative information, Detectives from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office obtained an arrest warrant for Seckman. Seckman was charged with a third degree felony offense of falsifying records. Seckman was arrested this afternoon by law enforcement and is currently being detained in Meigs County until transportation to the Washington County Jail can be arranged.

Seckman’s coconspirator and former Washington County Courthouse maintenance supervisor Charles Moody is also in custody at the South Central Regional Jail in Charleston, WV. Moody was arrested last night at a hotel near Charleston by the West Virginia State Police. Moody is scheduled to appear in Circuit Court in Charleston on Friday.

MMH and SGH Name 2010 Medical Staff Officers and Department Chairs

February 3, 2010

Memorial Health System is pleased to announce the 2010 Medical Staff Officers and Department Chairs for Marietta Memorial Hospital and Selby General Hospital.

Marietta Memorial Hospital:
President: Michael Nill, M.D.
Vice President: Michael Brockett, M.D.
Medicine Department Chair: Richard Cain, M.D.
Surgery Department Chair: Matthew Macatol, M.D.

Selby General Hospital:
President: David Spears, D.O.
Vice President: George Tokodi, D.O.
Secretary/Treasurer: Gary Waters, D.O.
Medicine Department Chair: Frederic Humphrey, D.O.
Surgery Department Chair: Joseph Castle, D.O.

For more information on Marietta Memorial Hospital’s services, visit their web site at www.mmhospital.org. Visit Selby General Hospital’s web site at www.selbygeneral.org to access their services.

The Memorial Health System is a not-for-profit health system governed by a volunteer board of community members that are committed to providing comprehensive services that meet the needs of our region. We are comprised of a network of two hospitals, outpatient service sites, assisted and long-term care facilities and a retirement community. We work in innovative ways to meet the healthcare challenges of today, while preparing for health needs of our communities in the future.

Washington County Sheriffs Office News Releases for Friday 29 Jan 10

February 1, 2010

On 27 Jan 10 Aaron Lang, age 31, 800 State Route 821, Marietta, reported sometime between 6 pm on 22 Jan an 11 am on 27 Jan an unknown suspect(s) entered a building on his property and cut a lead wire on welding machine inside the building. Mr. Lang also stated the suspect(s) also stole 250 feet of welding cable and copper welding leads from trucks parked near the building. This case remains under investigation (208).

On 28 Jan 10 Ronald D. Vogelson, age 50, 150 Camelot Road Lot 39, Belpre, reported he parked his employer’s tractor-trailer along Camelot Road, set the air brake and left the vehicle while he entered his home. When he looked out the window moments later he saw the vehicle rolling down a slight incline. Coasting off the side of the road, the trailer sideswiped three gas meters and the front of the semi-truck struck the front of a vehicle parked in front of Lot 22. The vehicles and the gas meters sustained light damage (1293).

The following suspect was processed into the Washington County Jail between Thursday 28 Jan 10 and Friday 29 Jan 10:

Jeannie Marie McAlarney, age 49, 798 Collins Road, Whipple, for passing bad checks, a misdemeanor. McAlarney was arrested at her residence by Deputy Sheriff Mayle and processed into the Washington County Jail on 29 Jan 10 at 12:02 am.

There are currently eighty-three men and nineteen women being housed in the Washington County Jail.

Heart Healthy Fat Lesson Offered by OSU Extension

February 1, 2010

Remember all those Ohio State University Extension announcements about the Seven Soups and Stews with Cindy at the library? Did you make it out to a class? If not, we missed you. And you missed some great soup!! But we are meeting again in February for a Heart Healthy Fat Lesson. Join us on the 19th in Belpre from 2 to 3, the 24th in Beverly from 3 to 4, the 25th in Marietta from 12 to 1, or the 26th in New Matamoras from 10 to 11. Call the Ohio State University Extension office at 376-7431 or go to washington.osu.edu if you have questions.

While you are waiting for the February lesson, try this Three Bean Chili. Put the following ingredients in a slow cooker, let it cook all day and enjoy. Only 210 calories with 11 grams of fiber in a 1 ½ cup serving. Ingredients: 2 14.5-ounce cans diced tomatoes, 1 15-ounce can garbanzo, kidney and black beans, 1 15-ounce can water, 2 cups frozen corn, 1 large chopped onion, 3 to 4 teaspoons chili powder, and black pepper taste. Hardest thing to do is chop the onion. Enjoy!! Courtesy of www.extension.iastate.edu.

Lowell Police Officer Arrested for Domestic Violence

February 1, 2010

In the early morning hours of 30 Jan 10, Erika R. Rhodes, age 30, returned home to her residence at 9235 State Route 60, Lowell, along with her husband Robert, age 31, who is a patrolman with the Lowell Police Department. Deputy Sheriffs Mankins and Simmons later responded to the residence after Mrs. Rhodes reported being choked by her husband while they were seated in their vehicle, with her in the driver’s seat. Mrs. Rhodes commented to the Deputies that her husband is violent when he is intoxicated and that he has hit her in the past. On this occasion Ms. Rhodes stated an argument erupted over missing house keys and that her husband grabbed her by the throat and choked her until their children in the back seat became upset. Mrs. Rhodes said she feared for her safety and she also exhibited marks on her neck consistent with her account of the event. Based on their investigation, Deputy Simmons arrested Mr. Rhodes for domestic violence and transported him to the Washington County Jail.

As of 2:30 pm on Sunday 31 Jan 10, Rhodes is still incarcerated and is being held without bond pending his initial court appearance at 1 pm on 1 Feb 10. His status with the Lowell Police Department is unknown at this time.

Charlie Wilson to Appear at Series of Small Business Forums

February 1, 2010

Congressman Charlie Wilson, from Ohio’s 6th District, will be the featured speaker at a series of unprecedented events focusing on small business development TechGROWTH Ohio is sponsoring throughout southeast Ohio. “Re-Inventing Small Business in Appalachia” will attract local business owners, inventors, staff members, members of the investment community, and entrepreneurs with new opportunities. This invaluable event is part of a month-long series of seminars focusing on business growth in southeast Ohio.

"I look forward to meeting with our regional business owners and entrepreneurs to get a firsthand report of their opportunities and challenges.” said Mr. Wilson “I know that a significant portion of the economic recovery in our area will come from small and mid-sized businesses. I am grateful to TechGROWTH Ohio for its important work in helping to develop these economic engines."

TechGROWTH Ohio is an Entrepreneurial Signature Program (ESP) funded by the Ohio Department of Development's Third Frontier initiative to serve southeast Ohio. TechGROWTH Ohio’s Partners, including Ohio State University South Centers; East Central Ohio Tech Angel Fund; WesBanco; the Muskingum Business Incubator; Adena Ventures; and Ohio University’s Voinovich School, the Innovation Center and Edison Biotechnology Center are delighted to join in heralding this important series of events.

“TechGROWTH is pleased that we've been able to assist so many companies speed up their commercialization, and we appreciate Representative Wilson's leadership in helping small businesses in our region gain access to the resources that help them succeed and create sustainable growth and jobs,” stated TechGROWTH Director John Glazer.

This program will connect participants with valuable resources from state and local organizations designed to foster technology and innovation. “Fast Pitch” is an opportunity to present a formal or back of the napkin idea to a panel of experts for feedback and resources to advance to the next level. Through interactive discussions, presentations, and networking opportunities, Re-Inventing Small Business participants will discover the realm of possibilities Appalachia offers new and existing businesses.

The “Re-Inventing Small Business in Appalachia” series will be offered free of charge in three communities in Southeastern Ohio. Lunch will be provided. Registration is highly recommended online at www.techgrowthohio.com or by calling (740) 593-9588.


February 5, Marietta
Lafayette Hotel

February 8, Steubenville
Eastern Gateway Community College

February 19, Ironton
Ohio University, Southern Campus

TechGROWTH Ohio is an Entrepreneurial Signature Program (ESP) funded by the Ohio Department of Development's Third Frontier initiative to serve southeast Ohio. Located at Ohio University, TechGROWTH Ohio supports technology-based entrepreneurs and businesses by offering operational assistance and access to early-stage capital.

Washington County Sheriff's Office News Releases for Monday 1 Feb 10

February 1, 2010

On 29 Jan 10 an employee of Reno Water, 170 Mount Tom Road, Marietta, reported a customer on Coal Run Road who had their water shut of for nonpayment allegedly cut a lock off a valve and turned the water to the residence back on. This case remains under investigation (790).

On 29 Jan 10 Deputy Sheriff Mankins and fire departments from Beverly and Lowell responded to a garage fire on property owned by Billy Douthitt, age 68, 24275 State Route 339, Lowell. Extinguished without incident or injury, the fire caused substantial damage to the structure. Mr. Douthitt believes an errant spark from a wood burning stove in the garage ignited a nearby wood pile and caused the fire. The Beverly assistant fire chief agreed and stated the fire appears to be accidental in origin.

On 29 Jan 10 a forty-two year old resident on Dalzell Road in Whipple reported she received a card in the mail from an individual she has told on numerous occasions to cease contacting her. The victim stated the suspect’s attempts at communication cause her emotional distress, stomach problems and issues with her family. This case remains under investigation (1184).

The following suspects were processed into the Washington County Jail between Friday 29 Jan 10 and Monday 1 Feb 10:

Whitney Ann Jacobs, age 21, 122 Tennis Center Drive Apt. 38, Marietta, for trafficking in drugs, a felony. Jacobs was arrested at 404 Montgomery Street by Patrolman Wenzel of the Marietta City Police Department and processed into the Washington County Jail on 29 Jan 10 at 9:59 am.

Alicia Dawn Miller, age 26, 209 Fifth Street Ext., Lowell, for possession of drugs, a felony. Miller was arrested at 404 Montgomery Street by Patrolman Wenzel of the Marietta City Police Department and processed into the Washington County Jail on 29 Jan 10 at 10:16 am.

Dustin Edward Allen, age 30, 303 Sixth Street Apt. 2, Marietta, for trafficking in drugs and for assault on a peace officer, both felonies. Allen was arrested at 404 Montgomery Street by Patrolman Wenzel of the Marietta City Police Department and processed into the Washington County Jail on 29 Jan 10 at 10:34 am.

Julie Ann Hupp, age 33, 715 Wayne Street, Marietta, for trafficking in drugs, a felony. Hupp was arrested at 404 Montgomery Street by Patrolman Wenzel of the Marietta City Police Department and processed into the Washington County Jail on 29 Jan 10 at 10:47 am.

Mark Matthew Smith, age 20, 113 Pickering Street, Parkersburg, for theft, a misdemeanor. Smith was arrested in Marietta Municipal Court by Patrolman Arbaugh of the Marietta City Police Department and processed into the Washington County Jail on 29 Jan 10 at 11:54 am.

Joshua Daniel Campbell, age 24, 840 Echo Valley Road, Waterford, for five misdemeanor counts of passing bad checks. Campbell was arrested in Beverly by Patrolman Offenberger of the Beverly Police Department and processed into the Washington County Jail on 29 Jan 10 at 3:42 pm.

Santana Ellen Hopkins, age 20, 1948 Princeton Street, Parkersburg, for theft, a misdemeanor. Hopkins was arrested on State Route 7 by the Ohio State Highway Patrol and processed into the Washington County Jail on 29 Jan 10 at 4:41 pm.

William Malcolm Conner II, age 21, 8887 State Route 555, Chesterhill, for OVI, speeding, driving under a suspended license and for giving false information to avoid a ticket, all misdemeanors. Conner was arrested near milepost twenty-three on State Route 60 by the Ohio State Highway Patrol and processed into the Washington County Jail on 30 Jan 10 at 2:15 am.

Robert Gordon Rhodes III, age 31, 9235 State Route 60, Lowell, for domestic violence, a misdemeanor. Rhodes was arrested at his residence by Deputy Sheriff Simmons and processed into the Washington County Jail on 30 Jan 10 at 4:00 am.

Nathan Ray Rios, age 25, 2535 Highland Ridge Road Apt. AA, Lowell, for assault, a misdemeanor. Rios was arrested at his residence by Deputy Sheriff Carr and processed into the Washington County Jail on 31 Jan 10 at 2:08 pm.

Four Arrested on Cocaine Related Charges

February 1, 2010

On February 1, 2010, at approximately 1830 hours Agents with the Major Crimes Task Force conducted a search warrant at the Hampton Inn at 508 Pike Street, in Marietta, OH. Agents have been working in conjunction with Agents with the Parkersburg Narcotics Task Force and had gained intelligence this afternoon indicating there was illegal drug activity occurring at room 333 at the Hampton Inn in Marietta, OH.

During the execution of the search warrant Agents observed a male and female attempting to destroy evidence. These individuals were later identified at Lawrence M. Garner, age 28, also known as “Snow Man” of 1008 Ansley Court in London, OH and Cassaundra L. McCormick, age 27 of 212 N. Pierce Ave. of Lancaster, OH. Also present in the room was Keon Gibson, age 25 of 501 Lakes Edge Way of Pickerington, OH.

During the execution of the search warrant David Reed, age 45 of 2509 Gihon Road of Parkersburg, WV showed up to purchase narcotics from this hotel room. Upon being confronted by agents and searched, David was found to be in possession of a crack pipe. He was arrested and charged with M4 drug paraphernalia.

Agents were able to recover approximately 33 grams of cocaine, 5 grams of crack cocaine, 5 grams of marijuana and $1,302.00 cash. The cocaine has a street value in this area of approximately $6,600.

Lawrence M. Garner was arrested and charged with F3 tampering with evidence and additional charges including possession, manufacturing and trafficking will be sent to the prosecutor’s office for consideration. Parkersburg Narcotics Task Force will be filing Federal charges against Garner with regards to trafficking in cocaine and crack cocaine in Parkersburg, WV.

Cassaundra McCormick was arrested and charged with F3 tampering with evidence. Additional charges of possession and complicity to trafficking will be sent to the prosecutor’s office for consideration.

Keon Gibson was arrested and charged with F3 possession of cocaine. Additional charges of complicity to trafficking and manufacturing will be sent to the prosecutor’s office for consideration.

The Major Crimes Task Force is a multi-faceted organization composed of representatives from the Marietta Police Departments; the Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Identification and the Morgan and Washington County Prosecuting Attorney and Sheriff’s Offices.

Charles Moody Arrested in West Virginia

February 1, 2010

At 2050 on 01 Feb 10 Charles Moody, former maintenance worker from Washington County was arrested in Cross Lanes, WV at the Comfort Suite by the West Virginia State Police in conjunction with Detectives from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. Moody is being held in the South Central Regional Jail in Charleston, WV. He will appear in court in the near future and be given the opportunity to waive extradition to Ohio.

Moody was indicted by a Washington County Grand Jury for Theft in Office, Bribery, and Tampering with Records.