Measles Outbreak in Knox and Coshocton Counties

The South East Ohio mumps outbreak has climbed to 288 cases, meanwhile another viral outbreak is just starting.

Twenty-one confirmed or probable cases of measles have appeared primarily in Knox county, with one confirmed and two possible cases in Coshocton county. The cases in Knox county stem from an un-vaccinated group who traveled to the Philippines and became infected by the virus.

"It's currently staying within the un-vaccinated population which is good," said Kristen Baker, South East Regional Epidemiologist. "As long as we are vaccinating ourselves, making sure that we're up to date, washing our hands, and try to stay as healthy as possible, then we should be okay."

The Measles Mumps and Rubella  (MMR) vaccine is most effective against the measles. However, measles is a more contagious and severe virus with the possibility of more complications developing as well as a higher risk of death in children. According to the health department, the mumps and measles have reappeared especially in cases where the victim was not immunized.

"We've seen increased media against vaccinations and there are people with philosophical beliefs that don't want to be immunized themselves, and don't want to get their children immunized," said Baker, "that ends up putting not only their children at risk for developing a disease, or complications and even death, but also the community that they're in."

Symptoms of the measles include runny nose, red eyes, and fever preceding a redish-brown rash that will spread. For more information on the measles, you can visit the website http://www.cdc.gov/measles/

Steven Buck For Muskingum County Probate Juvenile Court Judge

The May Primary Election is one week from today.

Steven Buck is one of four candidates running for Muskingum County Probate Juvenile court judge. He currently serves as a magistrate in probate juvenile court. Buck says he's aware of the issues of drugs and neglect as well as the challenges and reasonable solutions in the court.

"I am the candidate with most experience actually in both courts. I have over 20 years experience as a probate attorney, handling decedent's estates, guardian-ships, adoptions and other matters in the probate court, but I also have at this point a total of 28 years experience hearing cases for the juvenile court. And some ten years experience prior to that as an attorney handling cases in the juvenile court," said Buck.

Candidate Buck says he's enjoyed practicing in the Juvenile and Probate court.

"I got into the practice of the law because of the loss of my own father when I was fifteen," said Buck. "I've seen what problems that caused for our family, both through probate court and otherwise and recognizing what difference an attorney with the right mindset, magistrate or judge with the right understanding can make in positive good outcomes for families".

As a college camp counselor, an adult foster parent, a church leader, and scout leader, Candidate Buck says he has always had interest in the youth of his society.

For More Information visit stevebuckforjudge.com
WHIZ News will feature to other two candidates in this race Thursday May 1st at 6PM

Susan Montgomery McDonald For Muskingum County Probate Juvenile Court Judge

The second candidate we are featuring tonight for Probate Juvenile Court Judge is Susan Montgomery McDonald. An area of law she says she is comfortable with.

McDonald serves as an attorney and has been with her firm for over twelve years. From the state house to the local court house, she has over twenty years of public service and legal experience.

"All the candidates are qualified, that's the easy part," said Montgomery McDonald. "The hard part is doing what is right, what is in the best interests of the children. It comes naturally to someone who has had a positive upbringing, and good family values, and a good moral basis to raise. All you have to do is do what is right. There's never a wrong time to do what is right. You have to find a fine balance of reading the law and interpreting the law, with your heart and knowing what is right, with the budget of the court".

Through the courts, McDonald believes that lives can be changed for years to come and generations to follow. Along with her family, she also operates McDonald's Green House and Corn Maze for children and families.

"We offer them wholesome, affordable, education, and an agricultural experience. Through that, I get to work with all the day cares, the elementary schools, the scout troops, the 4H clubs, and the church groups, that come to our venue, and learn and meet those people, and learn about what their needs are and see them interacting. We also have the children's services kinship families come out from Muskingum county and Guernsey county".

McDonald says there would be no greater honor than to serve as the probate and juvenile judge, giving back to the community and helping the future generations of the community to grow, advance, and prosper.

You can find Montgomery McDonald's web page at Facebook.com/Montgomery-McDonald-For-Probate/Juvenile-Judge
 WHIZ News will feature the other two candidates in this race Thursday May 1st at 6PM

New Executive Director at Zanesville Museum of Art

The Zanesville Museum of Art introduced its New Executive Director Tuesday afternoon.
Originally from the Chicago Land area and a Lake Forest College graduate, Laine Snyder studied art history and pottery. She has also operated a home studio, Ingleside Pottery, for several years.

"I'm so excited to develop the programming here at the Zanesville Museum of Art," said Laine Snyder, Executive Director, Zanesville Museum of Art. "I think it's such an important asset within our community. So to give back by providing programs and exhibitions that really speak to people, that really develop and fit in with the art community here it's one of our long term goals".

Snyder has created exhibits as the curator for the Miami University Art Museum as well as the Dayton Art Institute. There are several plans in the works to re-do the museums website, bring in new pieces, and develop a cultural program that reflects the Zanesville community.

"As a ceramic artist I'm intrigued by the different glazes and forms and by the art form itself," said Snyder. "To come here and to work with that phenomenal collection. And I have to add, also to have this be the first year for the Zanesville Ceramic Prize, it's an extraordinary time to be here and to be a potter and Executive Director in Zanesville."

To learn more about the upcoming events at the Zanesville Museum of Art and new Executive Director Laine Snyder, you can visit http://www.zanesvilleart.org/

Celine "Bulldawg" Wyatt Memorial Fast Pitch Softball Tournament

A fast pitch softball tournament will take place this May 16th through the 18th at Riverside park to commemorate the life of Celine Wyatt.

Celine was a passionate eleven year old athlete who passed away tragically last September. The Celine 'Bulldawg' Wyatt Memorial Tournament will raise funds for a scholarship memorial in her honor.

"We want to make it big," said Becky Wyatt, Celine's Mother. "We want to emphasize the qualities that she possessed when she played. We want to make it for any girl in the state of Ohio can apply"
One hundred percent of the proceeds from this event will go toward the Celine Wyatt Memorial Scholarship Fund. The annual scholarship will be awarded to one senior college bound female softball player as well as a Tri-Valley female college bound student. Athletes should exemplify the hard work ethic and passion that Celine displayed.

"She loved to teach, so education was very important to her," said Tim Wyatt, Celine's Father. "She did very well in school. Softball was her love. We went year round. We practiced we played even when she was playing basketball. She still continually practiced her softball. She had a fierce heart and she was a fierce competitor."

Over 70 sponsors are supporting this event. There will be a Chinese Auction with donations from local businesses and residents. Drawings will begin 5 pm Saturday evening. Some of the prizes include: Jenny Finch autographed items, Cincinnati Reds Tickets, Ohio State themed gift baskets, Radar Oakley sunglasses, movie night gift baskets, rounds of golf, gift cards, Avon products, oil changes, car washes AND MORE!

There will be a baked goods sale with $1 baked goods. Parking is $5 per vehicle. Tournament shirts will also be for purchasing. This will be a huge event so be sure to come out and show your support for Celine and the Wyatt family.

Sponsors who would like to help make the Celine Wyatt Memorial Scholarship successful can make a tax deductible donation payable to the Muskingum County Community Foundation. You can find more information about the tournament and the scholarship at the following link to the MCCF

https://mccforg.presencehost.net/donors/ways_to_give/donate_established_fund/funds/celine-wyatt-memorial-scholarship.html

For information on the tournament visit
http://www.leaguelineup.com/welcome.asp?url=celinewyattmemorialtournament

10th Annual Suicide Awareness Banquet

The 10th Annual Suicide Awareness Banquet, "Celebrating Ten Years of Hope" took place this evening at Colburn United Methodist Church.

Keynote speakers were Sandra Harstine and Russ Crabtree. Both were instrumental in developing the regions five suicide prevention coalitions.

"I'm going to be talking a little bit about the epidemic of suicide and how serious this is in our country," said Crabtree, Director of 'Best Minds'. "It's kind of an unrecognized problem still in many part of our society."

Ten percent of American adults suffer from depression and more than thirty-eight-thousand people complete suicide each year. Many of the people represented by these statistics were part of a church community. The focus of discussion at this year's banquet was ways churches can address suicide.

"I'm going to be talking specifically about faith communities and what I do with faith communities, I generally spend a day with pastors and leaders and help them look at the myths for example in the Bible, kind of the ideas that people have about what's in the bible about suicide. If you can say the word suicide in a sentence, you can save a life," said Crabtree. The title of his message was "Saving Jonah and Other People of Faith".

There were about 120 attendees. The banquet was hosted by suicide prevention coalitions represented in Coshocton, Gurnsey, Morgan, Muskingum and Perry counties.

View Edit Edit Top Stories North Star Award Presented To Senator Balderson

The Muskingum Valley Council Boy Scouts will be holding the 11th 'Commitment to Excellence' banquet to present the North Star Award.

It is the highest award that can be presented to a former boy scout or cub scout who is not actively scouting. State Senator Troy Balderson will be receiving the honor.

"Troy just came to the top of the list very quickly as someone who is well recognized in the community for the service he's given for years," said Ed Mulholland, Executive Director of the Muskingum Valley Council Boy Scouts. "He's always been supportive throughout his public service of organizations like scouting. He teaches citizenship in the classroom, he's visited many boy scout troop and cub scout pack and done the same thing. He's just been very supportive of scouting and youth in general."

Senator Balderson recognizes that one of the strongest pillars the scouts offer the youth today is leadership. He works diligently in the 20th senate district to give back to the upcoming youth and the community as a whole.

"I've really been heavily reaching out to our schools. I try to go to schools, I serve seven and a half counties," said Senator Balderson. "I try to go to those counties and go to those schools and talk to the youth and express to them the importance of hard work and getting into organizations that will guide them and give them the leadership skills that they need."

The Commitment to Excellence banquet will take place Thursday May 8th at the Zanesville Country Club. Also being recognized at the banquet will be Richard Daily, a scouting volunteer who will receive the 'Whitney M. Young Jr. Award'.

Vehicle Slams Into Home At 3480 Maysville Pike

The Zanesville Post of the Highway Patrol say a residence located at 3480 Maysville Pike suffered substantial damage after a vehicle veered off the road and into the home.

Home owner Nancy Sagle was with her daughter in Lancaster when she received a phone call from her son stating a vehicle had driven into her bedroom.

"My sons were in this room here," said Sagle, "and one was in a recliner, and the other one was standing in front of the door for some reason. And the one that was sitting in the chair said "MOVE!"

The driver, William Thomson of White Cottage, is a friend of Sagle and her family. Her sons initially responded with EMT training. They asked him his name and said he was confused but communicating. Emergency crews used jaws of life to remove him from the vehicle. His airbags did not deploy.

"Something must have happened to his vehicle," stated Sagle. "The gas must have stuck or something. But thank God he hit the house instead of a vehicle head on."

Sagle was surprised to hear the news, seeing as her home is located a good distance from the road. Witnesses say the vehicle missed the fence, drove between a parked truck and a trailer, hit the steps of the front porch, and slammed into the front of the house on the right side, causing damage to the bedroom and living room. Thompson is in the hospital. Sagle and her family state that Thompson has had a history of heart trouble in the past. They are praying for the Thompson family.

Trooper Merryman of the Zanesville Post of the Highway Patrol said the accident appears to have been caused by the medical condition of Thompson. There were only minor injuries reported. The incident is still under investigation

Crime and Violence Committee Meeting

The Crime and Violence Committee met at City Hall this afternoon to discuss what is being done to make the Zanesville community more safe.

Public Safety Director Fred Buck and Chief of Police Kenneth Miller addressed questions from the committee on the status of shooting and drug investigations. Chief Miller also informed the committee on updates to police equipment and computers.

"This is something I went to council for a month or so ago, just updating the operating systems and our computers," said Chief Miller. "The old ones couldn't handle the new operating system so we had to buy new computers. This just allows us to continue getting leads, information, registration, warrant checks and such."

The total number of arrests city wide has increased by 40% since last year. This year Zanesville has seen 81 drug related arrests between March and April. Chief Miller hopes to use stronger advances to keeping drugs out of our city.

"We do have a nuisance abatement law that has been used on operating businesses and such," stated Miller. " I want to get with the safety director and the law director to see if its available to where we can expand it to address houses and land lords that rent houses to the drug activities in the area."

Chief Miller wants the public to know that it is the help and cooperation from the public that makes the policing of ZPD possible and effective. Effort will be put toward promoting the anonymous tip line which is available to anyone at anytime. That number is 740-455-0712.

Open house for ZPD and the Zanesville Fire Department will be Friday May 16th from 3pm-7pm. There will be stations out front for the community to interact with officers and fire fighters, ask questions, and learn how they're working around the clock to keep the community protected.

Make Sure You Check In Your Carr Center Cakes TODAY!

The Carr Center Cake Auction kicks off Thursday at 8 am. Today bakers and sponsors were busy checking in their decadent cakes and registering. You can check in until 6pm. WHIZ's Miriah Turner stopped by to see which busy bakers would be willing to chat. Find out more tonight on WHIZ News at 6pm.
From 6pm-9pm Wednesday evening is the people's choice awards. Stop on by!
The Carr Center Cake Auction will be broadcast LIVE on AM1240 and also on our website.

BORN IN THE 80S? YOU MIGHT NEED MMR VACCINE

Health officials report the Central Ohio Mumps outbreak is persisting. As of Tuesday April 22nd, 263 people have fallen ill to the virus.

Doctor Whitacre, Medical Director of the Zanesville Muskingum County Health Department is cautioning viewers in our area to be aware of what's happening in our surroundings. One of the latest cases has appeared as close as Licking county. Viewers who were born in the 60s 70s and even 80s need to check their medical records.

"The change was right around 1982 in the vaccine. A lot of children did not get both immunizations, some did, some didn't. It's recommended that you get a shot around the age of 15 months and then get a repeat in your kindergarten shots. But it was not required in the 80s that you get that second shot," said Dr. Vicki Whitacre, Medical Director, ZMCHD.

If you are unsure if you've had the disease or the two current immunizations, check your health records. Many states also keep registries as well, but Dr. Whitacre cautions patients that Ohio registries are really only most accurate in the past ten years. Whitacre says the vaccine is a very safe vaccine and it will not hurt patients if they received a vaccination now and also in childhood

"I don't think we're really going to be able to prevent the mumps in our area because of the way people travel," said Dr. Whitacre, "what you can do is protect yourself. If you've had the mumps and know you've had the mumps as a child, like I did, you have as good a protection as you can have and should not need to worry about it."

If you are unsure of your immunity to mumps, see your doctor and get a vaccination for MMR or call the health department and arrange for it to be given to you. Their number is (740) 454-9741

One Man In One Small Town

Having moved to the Zanesville area over two month's ago, I've had the chance to meet several people in town as a weekday reporter. I have to say, I was entirely blessed to have met Ron Bucci this afternoon for a story on the upcoming Carr Cake Auction.

'Y-Bridge, Zanesville' Water Color By Mary Ann Bucci

Ron is the kind of man with a special energy about him. It's no wonder he's been helping to raise money and auction cakes at this event for the past twenty seven years. With this year being the 28th Annual Cake Auction, WHIZ recruited me to meet up with him this afternoon to see JUST WHAT makes the event such a success. I left the General Graphics store with a full understanding.

"You drive off the energy, the energy of each other. The bids, the comradery at the mall, you almost have to be there to feel the sense of it and everything," said Bucci. "The most important thing is that 100% of the proceeds stay right here in Muskingum county. It goes to the Carr Center. It goes toward ten wonderful programs that just help and enhance everything."

I've never been to the Carr Cake Auction, but I've seen fun reports in the past by my good colleague Courtney Wheaton. When I asked Bucci what to expect and what will be new this year as opposed to last, he responded, "every year is different in some respect, but it's basically the same. They say if it's not broke don't fix it. It's not broke so we're not gonna fix it," he laughed. "We never set a goal, so no matter what we raise, we're going to be tickled to death with that. We'll take what ever the community gives, and we're going to show them how well we spend their money by putting it into the Carr Center and enhancing the programs that are already there."

Bucci says it takes four elements to make the event a success: bidders, buyers, bakers, and most importantly, sponsors. Along with Stoey, Steve and himself, as well as other announcers, it's important to keep people informed, especially entertained, but Bucci believes there is a special way to raise funds at the event.

"The key to raising money," he folded his hands, "and this is for anybody out there that's trying to raise money. This has been the secret that I've always used and I think it will work for them. If I can touch your heart in any way at all, I can get to your pocket book. And that's what we try to do at the Carr Cake Auction. We try to touch your heart and hope we get to your pocket book. That's the easiest way to extract money, because we've touched their heart in some small special way."

Very clever, I thought. Ron went on to tell me about his family and his relationship with the town. It's very easy to see, within the first five minutes of meeting him I knew, Ron is a people person.

"I'm 70 years old," he said thoughtfully, then began again,"how much longer I can do this I don't know. You know, I'll do it as long as I can, because I love it. I'm passionate about it. Anything I do I get passionate about. I think you have to do that to be somewhat successful and it's the people that make me want to come back. I mean the response," he got animated. "It's like throwing a ball against the wall and it comes right back at you. We put it out there and then the people come right back. I've agitated brothers, sisters, companies, competitors and stuff," he laughed. "It's the spirit of the thing. It's all for a great cause."

In closing Ron shared with me something he and his wife Mary Ann live by; "We get much more back when we give, then what we really have given, because we're helping others" he said.

I left the General Graphics store with a little recording, a small story, and new trinkets...but a huge understanding of life, passion, family, and generosity--all from one man, in one small town.

I guess there is honest truth behind this quote...

"It's the little details that are vital. Little things make big things happen"
-Legendary UCLA Basketball Coach John Wooden

Of course we're expecting big things to happen at this years Carr Center Cake Auction! Remember that tomorrow is cake check in day. The Carr Cake Auction  kicks off this Thursday at 8AM and will be broadcast live on AM1240.

HOOPINGARNER SPEAKS AT ROTARY

In honor of Earth Day, John M. Hoopingarner, Executive Director and Secretary of the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District, spoke to rotary this afternoon.

Appointed in 1989, he previously served as legal counsel to the conservancy district for 10 years. This morning he spoke about the district, outdoor recreation, as well as new fee cutbacks for private, commercial and industrial property owners.

"As a result of our stewardship of our natural resources, especially our oil and gas resources, the revenue that's been generated from the new leases has enabled us to cut the assessment on properties by fifty percent," said Hoopingarner.

As part of the watershed conservancy, Hoopingarner has also aided in overseeing the system of locks and dams in our region and flood control.

"There are 16 dams and reservoirs control flooding in the Muskingum watershed. Fourteen of those dams and reservoirs are specifically part of the Muskingm Watershed Conservancy District. In partnership of course with the core of engineers, the system has prevented millions and millions of dollars of flood damage in the Muskingum RIver Watershed and especially right here in Zanesville," said Hoopingarner.

DISPOSE OF OLD DRUGS APRIL 26TH

'National Prescription Drug Take Back Day' is this Saturday April 26th.

The Muskingum County Sheriffs Department as well as the DEA are working to help clean out medicine cabinets and dispose of prescription drugs properly. Unique to the Zanesville area, the Muskingum County Sheriff's office has partnered with ZMCHD, as well as Genesis Healthcare and Northside Pharmacy and will be offering a drive-thru where ALL DRUGS including needles and liquids are accepted.

"You never have to get out of your car, " said Sheriff Matt Lutz, Muskingum County Sheriff's Department. "You drive up, we have workers that will take the drugs from your window, some people will pop their trunk and we'll get the stuff out of the trunk. Genesis sets up a tent for us, we take it in, separate it, the labels are destroyed, it's really a great process and we have a lot of fun with it".

A convenient South end location is the Riesbecks Pick-n-Save on June Parkway. They are also offering a drug take back, but it is WALK IN to dispose of pill prescriptions ONLY. It is important to dispose of unused prescription drugs properly.

"If your kids get a hold of these prescription pills it could be very harmful to them, to their health," said Sheriff Lutz. "We get a lot of people that are breaking into homes, looking for these left over pills so they can feed their addictions or sell them on the street. We get a lot of theft cases from family members who go to their families, go into the bathroom, look at medicine cabinets and they'll take pills, they'll leave, it's very hard to prove those cases."

The drug take back at the Zanesville Muskingum County Health Department takes place from 10am to 2 pm. Illicit substances will not be accepted. The program is anonymous and personal information will be cut off containers and destroyed.

Drug take back day usually happens twice a year, in the Spring and the Fall. There is a permanent drug take back site at the jail on 4th street. Simply ring the buzzer and hand in your unwanted PILL prescriptions ONLY. NO ILLEGAL DRUGS.

Volunteers are needed for this event. To find out more information or to volunteer you can call 740-454-9741 or visit ZMCHD.org.

A Great Start To The Week

A Great Start To The Week

MONDAY: Partly sunny. High near 75. Calm wind from the SW.

MONDAY NIGHT: Chance of showers after midnight. Lows in the mid 50s. Calm winds from the SW.

TUESDAY: Showers in the morning, leaving by late morning early afternoon. Highs in the mid 60s.

DISCUSSION: It is currently 53 degrees with mostly clear skies at 12 AM this Monday Morning

Monday looks to be in the mid 70s. Shower chances move in for overnight Monday into Tuesday morning with a passing cold front. A tenth to a quarter of an inch of precipitation possible.

Wednesday is dry and cooler in the mid 50s.

Showers move back in for what looks to be Thursday night, chances on Friday and chances into Saturday.

Winds remain light and variable throughout the week. High temperatures take a dip into the mid 50s Wednesday but stay primarily in the 60s and mid to low 70s this week.

Have a great start to your week.

Last day with Mackenzie Stasko. Good luck in Erie, PA!

"WORTHY IS THE LAMB" AT CORNERSTONE CHURCH

Cornerstone Church held their annual Easter performance this weekend.

The Easter celebration "Worthy Is The Lamb" started with a signing and dance. A highlight of this year's performance was the new set and design.

"All the walls are brand new, we put thousands of dollars into the material, the styrofoam, torching and making the grout lines the stone, the rock, the tomb, the upper room scene, everything that you see here on stage is brand new," said Adam Wahl, Worship Pastor at Cornerstone Church. "We have some new songs, some new acting. It's just a brand new play basically."

"Worthy Is The Lamb", depicts the life of Christ, his crucifixion and resurrection. Pastor Wahl says more than one hundred people take part in the production both on and behind the scenes. The event has taken place for over twenty five years.

"You would think that the same people will come," said Wahl, "but every year we find new people still come. And it's great because we can still reach the lost. By meaning of the lost, the people who haven't heard the message of the love of Jesus. And it's just a free acceptance. All you have to do is accept Him into your heart. We just want to let people know that it's available to them. It doesn't matter who you are, where you come from, what you've done, it's free to you."

Pastor Steve Harrop finished the evening with a message and opportunity for attendees to accept Christ. To find out more about Cornerstone Church and their ministries you can visit CornerstoneFullGospel.com

Get Outside For Those Easter Activities

Get Outside For Those Easter Activities

TONIGHT: Becoming Mostly Clear. Cool. Low 39.
SUNDAY: Sunny, High 72. Calm winds.
SUNDAY NIGHT: Partly cloudy. Lows around 45.


DISCUSSION: It is currently 64 degrees and sunny at 6pm Saturday evening.
We had a nice warm day to kick off Easter Weekend.The high today was 65 degrees.
Hope you made outdoor plans with your family and friends this weekend. Tomorrow looks to be great for those egg hunts.
Tonight expect skies clearing and lows in the upper 30s low 40s.
We'll start off sunny tomorrow with partly cloudy skies moving in for the afternoon and evening. Highs will be in the low 70s.
Monday looks to be in the mid 70s. Shower chances move in for overnight Monday into Tuesday morning. A tenth to a quarter of an inch of precipitation possible.
Wednesday is dry, then showers move back in for what looks to be Thursday night, chances on Friday and chances into Saturday.
Winds remain light and variable throughout the week. High temperatures take a dip into the mid 50s Wednesday but stay primarily in the 60s and mid to low 70s this week.

Have a great weekend!

Miriah Turner
Weather Forecaster/ Reporter
mturner@whizmediagroup.com
Twitter:@MiriahTurner
Facebook: Miriah Turner
miriahturner.blogspot.com/

S.T.A.R.S. CAMP FOR YOUNG WOMEN OPEN FOR REGISTRATION

Registration is now open for the S.T.A.R.S. Summer Camp for young women provided by Muskingum Behavioral Health.

In 2013 the S.T.A.R.S. program was taken over by the Muskingum Behavioral Health Prevention Department. S.T.A.R.S. stands for sensitivity, tolerance, attitude, responsibility and self esteem.

"We're going to put them through a series of workshops while they're there and we're going to be doing everything from sewing, to healthy cooking, to talking about relationships, friendships, even cyber bullying. It's a huge problem that we're trying to figure out how to deal with," said Ronelle Barnett, Muskingum Behavioral Health Prevention Specialist. "We're even going to be talking about public speaking, goal setting, and having that financial independence."

The camp will take place this June 10th through the 12th at Zane Grey Elementary and runs from 8:30AM to 4PM. Any student from Muskingum county or surrounding counties are able to register until May 16th. Each girl will receive the book "The Body Scoop for Girls" by Jennifer Ashton. Public speaker The "Amazing" Tei Street will join the girls through camp.

"It's going to be some place where we want you to feel comfortable. It doesn't matter who your friends are, what you like to do, where you come from. It's a camp where everybody comes in on the same playing field. We want every one to feel accepted. And if they don't that day walking in the door we hope they do by the time they leave, said Barnett.

The camp is accepting up to 100 girls and the cost is $15 per child. Transportation is not provided. You can find more information on the camp or register by calling Muskingum Behavioral Health at 740-454-1266

S.T.A.R.S is funded from local service organizations, businesses, and grants. 

THE "GREAT BATTERY ROUND UP" BEGINS NEXT WEEK

In celebration of Earth Day this April 22nd, AAA and NAPA Auto Parts are gathering and recycling old batteries for the "Great Battery Round Up".

More than a million lead-acid batteries are left in garages, backyards, or dumped illegally each year. From April 20th to the 26th, any motorists who bring their old batteries to participating NAPA Auto Parts or AAA Car Care Plus Centers will receive a free $10 store credit to that location (up to $20 per customer).

"The batteries have acid and lead. You don't want to leave them laying around. It's bad for the environment, yourself, your pets, your kids. So this way, we'll take care of them in a safe way," said Bill Reid, Central Ohio Tire Manager.

When handling old batteries be sure to keep the batteries upright and tightly secure before transporting them. Make sure not to smoke near batteries or expose them to open flames.

"You should wear gloves and don't get them against your clothes cause it will eat your clothes, and at least put them on some paper or something like that if you bring them in here so they don't eat the carpet out of your car," said Reid.

A list of locations participating in the "Great Battery Round Up" can be found at AAA.com/BatteryRoundup. Participating locations in Muskingum county include...

GKM Enterprises 1320 13th St., Dresden
GKM Enterprises 43 Beaumont St., Zanesville
Central Ohio Tires 435 Linden Ave., Zanesville

DEER BAGGING CHANGES FOR THE 2014 SEASON

Local deer hunters are going to see some changes this upcoming deer season beginning in September.

For Muskingum county the bag limit has changed. Last year it was one buck and three does. This year it's changed to one buck and two does.

"ODNR has always tried to maintain the deer population according to past records and check in on deer and stuff like that. They're happy with what they're seeing right now," said Kathy McCann Dillon Falls Store Owner.

These changes are in effect in order to maintain the current number in the herd. The deer population in our area is not depleting, however, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources is content with the current size of the population.

 "Another change will be on the tags," said McCann. "You'll be able to buy three of the either sex tags. There won't be an antler-less tag."

For more information on changes for deer hunting you can visit  wildohio.com .  Keep in mind, this Saturday is the start of youth turkey hunting for Spring turkey. Spring turkey season for adults begins Monday.

FREE INSTANT MOVIES, MUSIC, TV, AUDIO BOOKS FOR MUSKINGUM COUNTY

The Muskingum County library system is bringing you instant movies, music and books on demand.

The library system announced the availability of thousands of television shows, albums, audio books and movies to the public through their new partnership with Hoopla Digital.

Hoopla allows you to download music albums, movies, tv shows and audio books, all free of charge. There are unlimitied numbers of copies so customers never have to place a hold and can download it to smart phones, PCs, and tablets. When the loan period is up it will automatically return itself so there are never any over due fees.

Out of Ohio's 250 public libraries, the Muskingum County Public Library is the 34th library in Ohio to sign on with hoopla. Movies and television shows are at least two years old. Music albums and audio books are up to date.

"Libraries are about experiences and services and we know that many people find it more convenient or preferable to be able to borrow that online and use the library online," said Blair Tom, Assistant Director of the John McIntire Library. "We have a wonderful selection on our virtual library. And this really just takes it to the next level."

The loan periods are three days for movies and television shows, 7 days for music albums and 21 days for audio books. You can download up to five items, any mix of those items per month. Hoopla was tested with Seattle and Columbus Metropolitan Libraries.

The only thing you need is a web browser along with a library card. You can apply and pick one up free of charge at any of the six public libraries in Muskingum County.

Then log onto www.muskingumlibrary.org , click on their online resources, and enjoy the FREE Hoopla Service

A REMINDER FOR MOTORISTS TO MOVE OVER

A reminder to motorists on the road to move over for any vehicle with flashing lights on the side of the road..

The law was originally passed in 2004 requiring motorists to move over anytime they approach an emergency vehicle such as a fire truck, ambulance, or police vehicle. The law was modified in December to incorporate any kind of road service vehicle or wrecker as well.

"If you think about the context of the law it's kind of common sense. In the aspect of safety if you see someone along side of the road to move over to give them more room," said Lieutenant Matt Boyd, Zanesville Post Commander.

Failing to move over results in a minor misdemeanor on a first offense, similar to a speeding ticket and punishable by a fine. Multiple violations in a 12 month period results in a 4th degree misdemeanor. At which point you could be subject to jail time and an increased penalty up to $250 dollars.

The other part of the law is if you cannot move over, due to a significant amount of traffic, or if you are traveling on a two lane roadway where you cannot move over, you are required to slow down and just proceed with caution.

"You don't know when a wrecker driver is hooking a car up, they may trip over a cable or a wheel chalk or something like that," said Lieutenant Boyd, "we just want to make sure that there's no other accidents."

Lieutenant Boyd says the Zanesville Post has investigated three fatalities so far this year.

COVER THOSE PLANTS: FREEZE WARNING TONIGHT

With the return of winter weather, frost conditions are looming tonight.

A freeze warning is currently in effect from 10 this evening to 10 AM Wednesday for Perry and Morgan counties. Those eager planters who were out in their gardens over the weekend should prepare their plants.

"If somehow they can cover up any of the new crops they've put in the ground with bags, with cloth, a sheet, no plastic. Plastic is the worst thing because it will kinda stick to it and kill it.," said Terry Paul, Owner of Paul's Farm Market.

Straw and extra mulch around plants can help to insulate them as well. Particular plants like cabbage or hearty flowers with strong roots should be fine. Mother's day should be the date to keep in mind for planting.

"People can be preparing now by cleaning yards and such. But to really plant the softer plants, your tomatoes, your peppers, your geraniums, some of your other annuals that are more tender, around the fifteenth of May even up to the 20th," said Marvin Paul, Employee and family member at Paul's Farm Market.

Of course you can always carry plants in for the night. Oddly enough if we had received MORE SNOW this morning, it would have served as an insulator for plants.

Temps Dropping and Snow Is On The Way!

Weather LIVE report for Monday night April 15th. Temps are dropping and snow is coming!

"RE-NEWARK" DEMOLITION OF 20-22 N. 4TH ST.

As they say, "out with the old and in with the new".

Newark Mayor Jeff Hall says his city is entering it's latest phase, "Re-Newark".

According to Development Director Mark Mauter, the building located at 20-22 N. 4th St. was formally used for upstairs apartments and street level retail. However, the vacant building, which suffered substantial damage and deterioration, was due for demolition.

"On the front side we've put up some fencing on the sidewalk a couple months ago because we thought some of the wall might be falling. Just a few bricks. We weren't in fear of the whole wall collapsing. But certainly that mortar erodes over the years with no maintenance," said Mayor Hall. "When water gets inside the building, there were literally ice-skating rinks up there this winter. And when you have the freezing and thawing like we had this severe winter, it moves bricks and moves things out of the way. So we are so happy to get this down".

ADR and Associates led the way in the deconstruction of the building privately owned by Manuel Vela. Project Manager Nicholas Mill was present, supervising the proceedings. Also among the crowd this afternoon was Bill Spurgeon, the Newark Director of Public Safety.

The CIC, or the the Community Improvement Corporation as well as the Newark Development Partners worked in cooperation with the Ohio Attorney General's office to fund the demolition. The Attorney Generals office provided a matching grant of $150,000 dollars. $75,000 was raised by the private sector that wanted the building gone, and another $75,000 was generated from properties sold by the city; making this project in total around $300,000 dollars.

"The goal is to get things going, get it back on track. We're the 20th largest city in Ohio by population. We have a great downtown area that needs revived from a commercial district. The North end, 21st street is rolling pretty good commercially. But we need to get those tax dollars to put back into the community to make it a better city to live, work and play," said Mayor Hall.

The city's primary reason for demolishing the building was for safety concerns, especially with the alley of the Chase Bank ATM near by. Development Director Mauter speculates the new space will be used for parking. That has yet to be confirmed.

UNITED WAY 2014 ANNUAL CELEBRATION

The United Way of Muskingum, Perry and Morgan counties held their annual celebration this evening.

"What we're doing is celebrating the good work and the partnerships that we experienced throughout the year," said Meg Deedrick, United Way, Executive Director. "We take this opportunity to honor individuals in many different areas that have helped contribute in their own way to the success that we've experienced this past year".

Several Community Leader Awards were given out during the event.

The Legacy and Special Honor award was received by Bill Phillips.

The Presidents Award is awarded to an individual who makes significant volunteer contributions that impact the community. Ms.Deborah Hutcheson, Employee Relations Manager at the Kellogg Zanesville Plant received the award.

The Chairperson's Award is awarded to a volunteer who contributed to the campaign's success in a large way. The award recipient was Jesse Rollins, Administrative Officer at North Valley Bank.

The Arlene and Clay Littick Service Award is given to the individual who best exemplifies the Sprit of the United Way. Ms. Cindi Dale, Senior HR Coodinator for the Nestle Purina PetCare Zanesville Plant received the award.

The Cole and Thomas Lifetime Service Award is given to an individual who's many years of service to the United Way has had a permanent, profound, and positive effect on the organization. Community leader Elden Hudson received the award.

The 2013-2014 Campaign Chair, Matt Joseph, also reviewed the past campaign and recognized Core Cabinet and Loaned Executives. Joseph also led the ceremonial Passing of the Baton and introduced the 2014-2015 United Way Campaign Chair, Mr. Eric Holsky.

"I grew up in this community, I've lived here all my life," said Holsky. "Just being around and seeing what they do day to day in the community, a lot of it happens behind the scenes. I don't think a lot of people really know what they and the agencies do. Over the years agencies have changed somewhat, but it's all the same. We're helping the community. It can be in helping youth, it can be in helping as a safety net. Income, education and healthcare are our pillars."

According to the United way website, United Way envisions a world where all individuals and families achieve their human potential through education, income stability and healthy lives. They aim to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities around the world to advance the common good. You can find more at their website www.unitedway.org.

ZANESVILLE CITY SCHOOLS ELIGIBLE FOR FREE LUNCH PROGRAM

All students in Zanesville City Schools could be receiving free lunches this upcoming 2014-2015 school year.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers a 'Community Eligibility Program' for school districts with 40% of their students directly certified and receiving assistance through programs like WIC and SNAP. Over 64% of students in Zanesville City Schools are directly certified.

"Everything is school family partnership. If anything is going to work in our schools today it's going to be that combined effort between the school and the family," said Steven Foreman, District Director of Title 1 and Special Programs. "So this is one of those examples, this is something that is going to work because it's going to help the families support the children and we can support them at school. So it's a twofold approach."

The no cost lunch option will aid local families by saving them hundreds of dollars per student that can be spent elsewhere in home life. A typical high school student lunch costs families $405 a year while a single elementary school lunch costs $303 a year.

Foreman stated that according to the 'Reading and Writing Hungry' study conducted in 2008 by the Partnership for Economic Success, one in five students in school systems come into school hungry. This issue of what the study refers to as "food insecurity" sets up an uneven playing ground for students who are all expected to meet the same academic achievements, while some do not have all their basic needs met.

"The important thing is that whole stigma isn't there anymore. You are no longer a free lunch student because I am too. Everybody is. It's a no cost program. So the stigma disappears and once again we're all on the same playing field, we're all at the same starting point," said Foreman.

Zanesville City Schools already offer a free breakfast to students. The no-cost lunch will meet all federal nutrition requirements. Students will still have the opportunity to purchase additional items.

The Community Eligibility Option would eliminate the extensive paperwork process to apply for free lunches. Zanesville City Schools are hoping to know by the end of this school year if their application has been approved. For more information on the Community Eligibility Program you can reach Steve Foreman at 740-588-5539.

GIRL SCOUT TROOP 615 SPAGHETTI DINNER FUNDRAISER

Girl Scout Troop 615 from Nashport Elementary is up for their Bronze Award and they need your support.

Heather Fischer leads the fourteen 4th and 5th grade Junior Girl Scouts. They need twenty hours of community service to achieve their goal. They have chosen to support the animal shelter.

"We just really want to help the community," said Claire Martin, Troop 615 Girl Scout. "For our Bronze Award we just have to make a difference and impact the community. And the animal shelter, everybody here loves animals, so you know, it all works out! "

The girls have been taking care of animals and cleaning at the shelter. This Saturday, they will be holding a spaghetti dinner at First Christian Church, located at 3000 Dresden Rd. One hundred percent of the proceeds will go to support the animal shelter.

"We have the spaghetti dinner on Saturday April 12th so I'm just really excited for that too," said Elizabeth Day, Troop 615 Girl Scout. "It's just really fun to help out all the animals and I really hope people hear this and adopt one or two."

The spaghetti dinner will take place in the at First Christian Church in the Fellowship Hall from 5-7 PM. Tickets for children are $4 dollars $7 for adults. You can buy tickets at the door or at Susie's Favorites on Old National Rd.

Some fun facts about some of the girls....

Elizabeth Day only likes her spaghetti with butter and salt on it and says "it's just my opinion, everyone else can have theirs". She has a sheltie named Katie.

The girls helped to make the 500 meatballs for the spaghetti dinner with Pam Naubach, a mom of one of the girls. Elizabeth said "it was hard work...we probably made the first twenty...but it was fun and we got to watch Frozen. It was a girls night out thing".

All of the girls unanimously loved Frozen.

Anna Paul has been a girl scout since 1st grade and loves Savanna Smiles and their lemon flavor.

Brynna Wolfold is a hard worker and looks forward to this Saturday's dinner. She said "we're going to take different shifts, serving and clean up. We're also asking donations of paper towels and food".

Ava Fisher says she is hoping to earn the gold award with her girl scout troop. She knows the gold award can help with scholarships. She enjoys reading and thinks she might want to be a teacher.

Riley Moore has been a girl scout since 1st grade and likes helping out and interacting with the community. She DID NOT have fun cooking the meatballs. She likes Samoas and reading and the Harry Potter series.

Help these ladies earn their Bronze Award by supporting them this Saturday!

UPCOMING ROAD PAINTING AND REPAIRS

The Muskingum County Engineers office visited the County Commissioners this morning to discuss the bidding on upcoming pavement marking and asphalt emulsion.

An annual formailty, engineer Doug Davis, along with Matt Russell and Brian Taylor read bids publically, compared pricing, and checked to make sure all bid packages were complete.

"Anytime that you have federal money involved, the bid package gets thicker. There are prevailing wages that need to be followed, there are bid limits that need to be followed, we have to certify not only the bid package but we have to inspect to provide existing documention during the pocess," said Muskingum County Engineer Doug Davis.

The MCEO is currently putting together pricing and estimates for which roads as well as how many miles will be painted and treated. They are not only looking at bidder pricing but product.

"You have to make sure they're putting down at the right application rate. Thickness of paint makes a big difference. Also how wide the stripes are, you can't narrow them up just to make them cheaper. So that goes all along with the bidding process and following that up through construction," stated Davis.

The road painting and re-striping had four bidders, however, only one bidder presented for asphalt emulsion. Davis commented that, to the general public, asphalt is like blacktop. Blacktop however  is made of stone, sand and liquid. Today's bidding took place for the liquid portion.

"There's been some switching around in the industry to where companies are starting to buy eachother, so it may be the case here, we used to have two bidders, now there's only one supplier in the area. But we also look at the state DOT pricing, We can actually work off of that price also. We look at which ever one is going to be cheaper and that's what we look at to purchase to make our money go a little bit further," mentioned Davis.

The liquid portion of asphalt emulsion is also used for patching pot holes, cold mix, leveling rural county roads, as well as oil in chip and seal operations. With our large county, road patching and rehabilitation is an ongoing process.

"Some of those areas are so bad that some of the intersections, we're going to have to do some grinding, and overlay it with some hot mix asphalt to fix some areas there and do some motor paving some chip and seal and a combination of different procedures in order to level these streets and roads back up," said Davis.

The MCEO is looking to chip and seal roads that they repaired last year North of our county around the Frazysburg area as well as others within the county. For more information on which roads will be painted and repaired this year, you can find the MCEO newsletter at www.mceo.com

"PAINT ME BEAUTIFUL" GRAND OPENING!

"Paint Me Beautiful" held their grand opening this weekend, Thursday April 3rd to Sunday April 6th, at their new location 339 Adair Ave.

Paint Me Beautiful is owned and operated by Jodie Swingle. They offer complete home decorating and painting services through the store, as well as creatively redesigned painted furniture and home décor.

"Honestly, I love to paint. I'll paint anything," said Jodie Swingle, Owner of Paint Me Beautiful. "We've been painting for 22 years. My husband is a general contractor, so I have always painted his houses. We do a lot of flips and rehabs with houses, so you kind of just always inspired to make something beautiful again."

American paint chalk,mineral, and clay paints are featured throughout the store and in paint classes. They are 100% natural with no odor.

"We can go one of  your rooms,  like a guest bedroom we're currently doing right now, we will take your dressers, take them in here, and we can paint them for you. Then if we need to paint a wall that goes with your quilt or if we need to upsize something that you have, we can switch things around. We can grab something out of your basement and pull it up and recreate it. So we can take the things you already have, and put them back together in your home so you can use them again," said Swingle.

Paint Me Beautiful is the "one stop shop" for all of your decorating desires. Jodie and her team have all kinds of connections to get the job done. You can find them on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/JodiesPaintMeBeautiful or stop by their location on Adair Thursday, Friday or Saturday 10AM-6PM or Sunday 1-5 PM.

HOUSE FIRE AT 401 HEDGEWOOD AVE.

Zanesville Fire department responded to a fire at 401 Hedgewood Ave. earlier Saturday evening, around 4PM.

Amanda Morgan and her family had recently moved into the two story rental home. Assistant Chief Dave Huey said from the looks of the home, the family was still getting settled.

"Apparently they had a candle going in the room up there where the fire was that had got knocked down or the containment on the candle failed. It was one or the other. We don't actually know for sure on that since no one was in the room when it burst up " said Assistant Chief Huey.

Amanda, her husband, and four children, as well as a dog were home at the time of the fire. All were able to escape safely.

"The smoke detector apparently went off and sounded that something was going on," said Assistant Chief Huey. "The one upstairs bedroom where the fire originated is pretty much totaled inside. The rest of the upstairs has pretty significant smoke damage but not fire damage."

Assistant Fire Chief Huey estimates the damages at $20,000- $25,000.

ALICE TRAINING ON OUZ CAMPUS

As part of the ongoing OUZ Zane State Public Safety Week, campus safety addressed students and staff about how to deal with an active killer situation through ALICE  training.

It is mandatory for every employee on the OUZ campus to attend ALICE training at some point within their first year. Zane State has promoted it in classrooms and has even held open sessions.

"What it is called is Response to Critical Incidents, Active Killer Situations. And ALICE stands for Alert, Lock down, Inform, Counter and Evacuate. And we have implemented this program on both sides of campus, both Zane State and Ohio University," said Bethany Hayes, Director Zanesville Campus Public Safety.

Campus safety also reminded students to be observant of their exits in case of an emergency. It is always important to promote situational awareness and if you 'see something, say something'.

"Who knows whether it will save somebody in the end or not, but if we can do everything we can do to put our best foot forward, to train as many as we can , then we win," said Director Hayes.

Students and staff on campus though safety week are being taught to respond in preparedness rather than panic. Skills and lessons learned are life skills that can be implemented even outside the classroom.