Lees Creek United Church of Christ SABINA, Ohio (September 30, 2025)— Lees Creek United Church of Christ (UCC) held its last worship service on Sunday, Sept. 21, ending nearly 195 years of service since its founding as Centerville Christian Church in 1830.   Through generations of worship, fellowship, and service, the church has been a spiritual home and gathering place for countless families. Over its long history, 50 pastors have shepherded the congregation. Remarkably, for the church’s first 117 years, there was no full-time minister.   Rev. Connor Thompson, who has served as minister during this period of transition, delivered the sermon for the closing service. He shared that, “God’s love was spoken from this pulpit one final time, just as it has been for the last 195 years.”   The service also featured special guests from the Southwest Ohio Northern Kentucky Association and the Heartland Conference of the United Church of Christ, who offered prayers and words of blessing as the congregation concluded its ministry. Former Pastor Rev. Craig Showalter and his wife were also in attendance, joining members and friends in honoring the church’s rich legacy.  Although the church will close, its memories will not end, and its legacy will continue to benefit the community of Lees Creek and beyond.  Rachelle Priest, a senior at Ohio University, grew up in the Lees Creek church. “It is where I learned who Jesus is and where I found my church family,” she said. “Some of my favorite memories in church were the times I would sing with my grandfather while my grandmother played the piano. Those moments brought me closer to my grandparents. I will always cherish the friendships I found through Sunday School and the bond I developed with my Sunday School teacher. Lees Creek UCC gave me countless memories that I will hang onto forever.”  Eight-year-old Wesley Henry, the youngest member of the church, is maybe the most disappointed with its closing. “I don’t care if there aren’t 100s of people, I just want to come to my church every Sunday,” he said.  Wesley’s comments hint at the crucial circumstances that have caused the church to close. “The reasons we’ve closed our church are because of decline in attendance and participation, the age of members, and the lack of young families and children,” said member Linda Compton.   The Lees Creek Church is not alone. An estimated 15,000 churches are expected to close in 2025. The National Council of Churches projects that up to 100,000 churches may close in the coming years. For every new church that opens, three are closing. Church membership has dropped significantly, especially among Millennials and Gen Z. Weekly attendance among Gen Z fell from 22% in 2020 to 16% in 2023, according to sources. Gen Z includes those born between 1995 and 2015, while Millennials were born between 1980 and 1994.  “We are donating our church property to East Clinton Schools to renovate as an administrative building - a critical need for the district,” Compton said. The church’s remaining resources will be used to support the Sabina Public Library, the New Vienna Public Library, scholarships administered through the Clinton County Foundation, and other community organizations and projects.     Rev. Thompson said, “The spirit of Lees Creek UCC lives on through its people. Many members will continue their faith journeys in other congregations, carrying with them nearly two centuries of shared memories, relationships, and ministry.”  Jayne Garber, the church’s oldest member at 96, says the closing was “bittersweet” but seemed inevitable. She is glad that the church’s resources can be put to good use in the community. “And we were fortunate to have Pastor Connor to help us through a tough time,” Garber said. “He is well-liked, and I think many of our members will be sitting in the pews at First Christian Church.”  Rev. Thompson was the new pastor of the First Christian Church in Wilmington when in 2023 he began to also minister at the Lees Creek United Church of Christ. “It all started almost by accident — a passing comment to Joan Hinman while the garden club was meeting at First Christian Church,” Rev. Thompson said. “I mentioned that the only Disciples congregation and the only UCC congregation in Clinton County ought to find ways to strengthen our bond. Lees Creek had just entered a transition as their pastor moved on, and before I knew it, an arrangement was in place for me to share Sunday mornings with both congregations.  “Over these two years, our congregations have worshiped together, shared fellowship, sang hymns, prayed, laughed, and learned from one another,’ Rev. Thompson said. “I came to love Lees Creek not as a guest, but as part of its story. When I told the congregation in January that 2025 would be my last year with them, I thought I was simply making a necessary decision. What I didn’t expect was the sense of loss that would come with it.  “Like some of the families who count eight generations in their pews, I grieved as the congregation prepared to close. To be their pastor in this closing season has been a gift-humbling, holy, and one I will carry with me always.”  (Edited for publication by Dana Dunn, DunnWrites)   UCC – An Unusual Country Church By Historian, Sylvia (Jeanie) Henry   In the mid-70s, our church newsletters featured a heading created by Reverend Bill Evans that read: UCC—An Unusual Country Church. In his newsletters, Bill described our church as warm and welcoming and one that offers a safe space--whether firm in faith or still searching. This spirit echoes the United Church of Christ’s motto, drawn from John, Chapter 17 verse 21: “That they may ALL be one.” In other words, all believers belong to the one body of Christ.    And to this day, we have held firm in our belief that every person is created in God’s image and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.   Prior to 1957, we were known as the Lees Creek Congregational Christian Church, tracing our roots to the Pilgrims’ arrival on the Mayflower in 1620. Then, in 1957, four denominations--the Evangelical, the Christian, the Reformed, and the Congregational Churches--merged to form the United Church of Christ.   Regarding our local history-- this church, then known as the Centerville Christian Church, has been in existence for 195 years!  It began humbly, with meetings in a log cabin on Terrell Road, before moving a short distance to the Harmony Schoolhouse on Fisher Road, land currently owned by the Walker family.    Later, the congregation worshiped at Union Chapel on Larrick Road, near today’s East Clinton School property line and west of Joe Leslie’s current home. At that location, space was shared with a Methodist congregation on alternate Sundays. When both groups decided to expand their ministries, the Methodists moved to nearby Memphis, and both churches began a new chapter.   In 1871, this beautiful sanctuary was built for $2,000.  It has certainly stood the test of time withstanding roof damage from a tornado in 1894!  In addition, all church records were destroyed by fire in the clerk’s home, located next door.     Major improvements through the years have included:   Kerosene lamps were replaced with incandescent lights powered by Delco batteries, then later with electricity.   Heating began, with two floor stoves, then a coal furnace, followed by an oil furnace, and now, a natural gas system.   In the 40s, stained glass windows were added, along with new Sunday School rooms and a decorative metal ceiling.   In 1959–60, this sanctuary was reversed, new hardwood floors, windows and lighting were installed, as well as siding and a new heating system. A foyer and coatroom were also added to the newly built side entrance.   Our final addition was built in 1991, including a social room, kitchen, office and storage spaces.   We’re unusual in the number of fascinating pastors who have served here, and that would include the famous Bob Murphy and Craig Showalter! Now don’t worry gentlemen, I’m not going to tell stories about either of you! The pastors I will discuss served here between 75 to 195 years ago!    The first, Rev. Isaac Walters, served prior to 1830 and reportedly crossed the Allegheny Mountains 50 times, and traveled enough miles in 32 years to circle the globe five times before he died at the age of 51!   We also proudly claim Rev. Rufus McDaniel, our ninth minister, who served from 1896 to 1899, and composed the world-famous hymn “Since Jesus Came Into My Heart.” Although he wrote 100 hymns, Rev. McDaniel once said he never earned a penny from the hymns but trusted that his reward would come in heaven. His songs were popularized by the Evangelist Billy Sunday and others during his 50-year ministry. At one point, he served congregations 30–40 miles apart traveling by horse and buggy. In 1939, on his 89th birthday, he was interviewed on WHIO Radio, then sang one of his famous hymns, promising to return the following year. Sadly, he passed away before his 90th birthday.    Another remarkable minister was Ed Powers, known as the “Walking Preacher.” In 1947, as a Wooster College student, he served our church during his summer break.  Without a car, this young, unmarried man slept at the church and relied on meals from members, as he made his rounds on foot. Sometime later, he graduated from Yale School of Divinity.   And then there’s John Selvey, our 35th minister, who braved the legendary “Big Snow of 1950.”  He somehow managed to shovel his way from the parsonage to Lees Creek just to ring the church bell on Sunday morning. He was shocked to see that a young woman had braved the weather—determined not to break her perfect attendance record at a neighboring church. Rev. Selvey held a service for her and signed a note confirming she had been to church that snowy Sunday!   We’re unusual in that since 1871, eight generations of families have worshiped here! In a photo, you can see a stern-looking Jennie Morris, the Great, Great, Grandmother of Mary Jane Bentley, Ron and Don Bean, Brian Garber, Wanda Everman, and me.   Her obituary noted that Sister Jennie “stood ready at all times to admonish and advise us to travel in the path of righteousness and rectitude. So, for members Lisa and Mike, she would be their Great, Great, Great Grandmother, four “Greats” for their children—Derek, Tyler, Matthew, and Wesley—and five “Greats” for Chloie and Charlee!   It’s also unusual that for 78 years, our church has owned and operated a small farm. This tradition began in the mid-40s, when Mrs. Bob Judkins offered to sell a portion of her land east of Lees Creek for $185 per acre—donating the first acre herself. Inspired by her gift, others followed, and by November 1946, the farm was fully paid off, with an additional $3,000 remaining to help build a much-needed parsonage.   The first harvest was sweet corn and involved 36 men, 18 wagons, three trucks, and 12 tractors. By evening, the work was done, and the corn was headed to the local cannery in nearby Sabina!   In 1971, when a more modern parsonage was desired, members Roy Brandenburg and Willard Henry led the charge!  Once again, the second parsonage was built entirely with volunteer labor.   This spirit of pitching in extended to many other efforts, such as our Election Day Lunch and Dinner, a beloved tradition for 97 years! Incidentally, our records show that in 1927, the menu consisted of: chicken pie, mashed potatoes, beans, coleslaw, pickles, pie and coffee for 35 cents, 25 cents for children! The profit was an amazing $48.40!  For the past 65 years, Lees Creek UCC has been well known for its annual August Ice Cream Social.   Proceeds from these events, along with income from the church farm, and a Memorial Fund-established in 1960--have enabled us to generously support causes within our church, our community, and abroad.   As difficult as it is to close our church, those of us who remain are deeply grateful to continue our legacy of giving. We are proud to support:   East Clinton Local School District for Student Scholarships and Facility Improvements    The Sabina and New Vienna Libraries   The SATH Foundation (serving special needs students)   The Wayne Township Historical Project   Summit Church (newly formed in Lebanon, Ohio)   The Southern Ohio/Northern Kentucky Association of the United Church of Christ   While the sanctuary doors are closed, the spirit of Lees Creek UCC lives on through its people. Many members will continue their faith journeys in other congregations, carrying with them nearly two centuries of shared memories, relationships, and ministry.    Article Submitted by Dana Dunn

Top Left: Dennis Gherman (R), Top Right: Jamie Knowles (R), Bottom Left: Jason Stoops (I), Bottom Right: Kelly Tolliver (R) The City of Wilmington has four candidates campaigning for three at-large seats on city council. Early voting is October 7, 2025 through November 2, 2025. Election Day is November 4, 2025. The remaining candidates for elected city positions are on the ballot unopposed: City Treasurer Paul Fear Law Director John Kaspar City Council President Bob Osborn First Ward Council Member Josh Schlabach Second Ward Council Member Michael Snarr Third Ward Council Member Don Wells Fourth Ward Council Member Jeffrey Earley Dennis Gherman My name is Dennis Gherman. I am running for Council-at-Large. I have lived in Clinton County for 33 years. I am a Veteran. I served as a Sargent in the Army. I have been married to my wonderful wife Cheryl for 52 years. We have one son Eric who also lives in Wilmington. I am pro growth and believe we are headed in the right direction. Prior to moving to Wilmington, I lived in Marion Ohio about an hour north of Columbus, I worked for an Engineering firm performing several jobs in Wilmington. My last project was the 24" water line that runs from Ceasar Creek to Wilmington. At the end of the project, the City offered me a job as the Construction Manager overseeing all new construction and rehab for the city infrastructure. I worked at City Hall in this position for 4 years. I then moved to the Service Department as the Street Superintendent for 19 years. I feel that the experience I gained working for the Engineering Firm and the City for 23 years and knowledge of the city policies and budget process would be very beneficial to the City and Council. There are two other Republican candidates who are already on Council. Both are doing a GREAT job. I believe we have all seen improvement and growth in the City in the last year and a half. I would like to be a part of continuing the way we are headed. I am asking for your vote. (Article by Dennis Gherman - Republican) Jamie Knowles I am a community member, a neighbor, a friend, a father, a husband, and a son. At my core, I’m someone who cares deeply about Wilmington and the people who call it home. Those connections guide every decision I make and drive my commitment to serving on city council. I am not a career politician – I am simply a neighbor who believes our city deserves practical solutions. I plan to focus on improving infrastructure, supporting small businesses, and keeping our neighborhoods safe so that every resident can thrive. I’m a lifelong resident of Wilmington and a proud graduate of both Wilmington High School and Wilmington College. My deep roots in this community give me a first-hand understanding of its strengths and challenges. Guided by strong conservative principles, I bring a business-minded, results-oriented approach to problem-solving. I’m known for working hard, listening to residents of all ages, and building consensus. These qualities—experience, practicality, and dedication—are exactly what I will bring to city council to keep Wilmington moving forward. (Article by Jamie Knowles - Republican) Jason Stoops My name is Jason Stoops, and I am running for City Council to bring accountability, transparency, and safety to our local government. I have spent years working with people in this community, listening to their concerns, and voicing my opinion when I see decisions being made that do not reflect our community. I want to focus on three major things in the election for city council: transparency in how decisions are made, accountability for elected officials, and safety for everyone who calls our city home. One of my first actions will be to push for a proper ordinance that addresses the issue of illegal camping. I believe we can create a solution that is both compassionate toward those experiencing homelessness and respectful of the broader community’s needs. This election matters because the current council has too often chosen to ignore the voice of the people. I am running to restore trust, ensure the government works for all of us, and to give our community a voice at the table again. Vote Jason Stoops for City Council. (Article by Jason Stoops - Independent) Kelly Tolliver My name is Kelly Tolliver. I am married to my beautiful Wife Krista and have three adult children that were also raised in Wilmington. I too was raised in Wilmington and graduated from Wilmington High School. My wife and I both own and operate small businesses in town. The flexibility of working for myself allows me to continue working with our youth as a Coach at Wilmington High School. I have served one term on Wilmington City Council. I am serving because I felt our city had become a less safe, dangerous place. I am an America First Conservative like many of you and stepped forward to make a local impact and serve. I am running for re-election this November. Working with Mayor Haley, the Council has supported both staffing and equipment for our local Police and Fire departments. It has been proposed that we also increase the number we currently have on the Police force, and I fully support this effort. In this world we currently find ourselves in, it is time we demand Law and Order. Increasing the Police Force is one step and we should insist on it. I take my oath seriously and will do my job to represent you to the best of my ability. I am transparent and honest. Please support me and vote for me in the November election for City Council At-Large. (Article by Kelly Tolliver - Republican)

Jim Rankin, Pastor and Chairman of the Clinton County Republican Central Committee WILMINGTON, Ohio (October 1, 2025)— A large crowd gathered at the Clinton County fairgrounds to hold a candlelight tribute to Charlie Kirk. Charlie Kirk was assassinated on September 10th in Orem, Utah, while speaking on a Utah college campus. Jim Rankin said, “Charlie Kirk was a Christian American, a political and spiritual activist, entrepreneur, and media personality. He co-founded the conservative organization Turning Point USA in 2012 and was its executive director. He authored several books and spoke on hundreds of college campuses throughout America.” The event was sponsored by the Clinton County Republican Party and led by Central Committee Chairman Jim Rankin. Key moments in the event were the highlighting of Charlie Kirk‘s message of faith, family, and freedom. Pastor Jim Rankin said, “Charlie Kirk wanted to be best remembered for his courage in his faith.” Article Submitted by the Clinton County Republican Party Central Committee

Ohio Living Chief Executive Officer Laurence C. Gumina On September 30, 2025, Ohio Living Cape May, located at 175 Cape May Drive in Wilmington, dedicated its Bruce F. and Dorothy J. Henry Cape May Memory Care Center of Excellence. The dedication ceremony was opened in prayer by Pastor Dan Mayo. Ohio Living CEO Laurence C. Gumina followed, sharing about the 103-year-old nonprofit organization. Gumina thanked Bruce and Dorothy, hospital partners, and other local partners on the project. He stated that the new center will have 21 dedicated memory care units. Gumina then introduced Corporate Manager of Memory Care, Jean Morgan. Morgan shared her passion for expanding memory care across the state and in the community. She stated, "Across the state of Ohio in Ohio Living communities, people are living with dementia. They're not suffering from it... They are truly living, based on the care, philosophy, and approach that we bring to Ohio Living Cape May that we have already brought to six other Ohio Living Communities." Cape May has already begun training 100 employees using the "I'm Still Here" philosophy from the Hearthstone Institute to care for dementia patients. She shared that rather than meeting patients "where they are" like traditional healthcare providers, through the philosophy, they "take it a step further" and know who the patients are. Morgan thanked the Clinton County Community Foundation for providing funding for the training. The event concluded with a ribbon-cutting in the new memory care wing of the facility. For more information, visit ohioliving.org/ohio-living-cape-may .

Damon West speaks to Blanchester Local School District, Clinton-Massie Local School District, East Clinton Local School District, and Wilmington City School District On September 29, 2025, Blanchester Local Schools, Clinton-Massie Local Schools, East Clinton Local Schools, and Wilmington City Schools joined together for the Clinton County Connect4EDU at Wilmington High School. The day opened with a keynote speech from Damon West, a reformed criminal and bestselling author of the globally published book titled 'The Coffee Bean: A Simple Lesson to Create Positive Change.' Damon began as a Division 1 starting quarterback for the University of North Texas before suffering a "career-ending injury" and becoming addicted to methamphetamine. He then went to federal prison for ten years, where her met a fellow inmate who taught him the analogy of the coffee bean. Damon stated that "be a coffee bean" was the four words that changed his life, encouraging him to bring positive change to the environment around him. He stated, "Life is a pot of boiling water... It's harsh, it's stressful, it's difficult. You got three choices: be like a carrot (they're soft, mushy, weak), [be like] an egg (it becomes hard), or you can be like the coffee bean [and] change the pot of boiling water to a pot of coffee." After Damon's keynote speech, the professional development day featured many breakout sessions, covering subjects like student engagement, utilizing AI, behavioral needs, connection, communication, social media, and individual subject discussions. According to Connect4EDU, the day is dedicated to "collaboration, learning, and professional growth" among the local school districts. Throughout the day, they hope to "strengthen the network of support" across the districts and benefit the students served in the county. In addition to the breakout sessions, the event also featured a "Facilitated Job-Alike Session" where educators shared issues within their classrooms, discussed potential root causes, and shared strategies to solve the issues. Through the session, their goal was to create a "safe space for open dialogue, collective problem-solving, and shared professional growth." The day was planned by: Blanchester Local Schools Randy Dunlap, Superintendent Raechel Purdon, Assistant Superintendent Kristina Taylor, Elementary/Middle School Assistant Principal Jason Whitaker, High School Assistant Principal Clinton-Massie Local Schools David Miss, Superintendent Betsy Mutserspaw, Student Services Director, Preschool Director Ashley Seewer, Spanish Educator East Clinton Local Schools Julie Fliehman, Literacy Coach Jason Jones, Director of Curriculum and Instruction Eric Magee, Superintendent Sarah Melnek, Instructional Coach Wilmington City Schools Tim Dettwiller, Superintendent Natalie Harmeling, Director of Pupil Services Cortney Karshner-Rethmel, Elementary Principal Nikki Quallen, Director of Curriculum and Instruction Marilee Tanner, Elementary Principal Southern Ohio Educational Service Center Kim K. Adams, Director of Teaching & Learning Curt Bradshaw, Superintendent Casey Enochs, Assistant Superintendent Alexis Kirk, Teaching & Learning Specialist Shari Murphy, Teaching & Learning Specialist To learn more about Connect4EDU, visit the Southern Ohio Educational Service Center's website at southernohioesc.org .

Dustin Pearce & Cory Cockerill Wilmington College President Corey Cockerill joins the podcast (again) to share insights on her first 100 days since being officially becoming the college's first inaugurated female president. Although Corey is proud of this source of inspiration for young women, like her own daughter, she stated, "I don't consider my female status as a unique identifier... It wasn't something that defined me...  I never felt like I was overcoming being a woman... I just happen to be in fields that I think present challenges that I enjoy." Corey also gave an update on Wilmington College's involvement with the old Masonic Temple building on Main Street in Wilmington (next to The Murphy Theatre), and shared exciting news of the college's largest financial gift in their 155 year history, a $23 million donation from the late Coach Jerry Scheve, to build a new indoor track facility, ADA accessible entryway, and other athletic upgrades. Listen to episode 75 of the Real Change Wilmington Podcast, 'Wilmington College Inaugurates First Female President (Part 2 of 2)' with Corey Cockerill, on your favorite podcast player below: 🍎  Apple: bit.ly/rcwp-apple 🟢 Spotify: bit.ly/rcwp-spotify 🎥 YouTube: bit.ly/rcwp-youtube 😎 Website: bit.ly/rcwp-website

President Corey Cockerill "What an incredible career to be so privileged to get to witness every day, thousands of lives transforming in front of you because of education," reflected Wilmington College (WC) President Corey Cockerill. Corey shared insight on her first 100 days since officially becoming WC's first inaugurated female president on April 22, 2025, and offered her perspective as a woman, leader, and mother of an incoming college student at WC. Regarding her gender and her position, Corey stated, "I don't consider my female status as a unique identifier... It wasn't something that defined me... I never felt like I was overcoming being a woman. I just did it... Whatever I wanted to do, I just did." Although she is proud to be a "source of inspiration" and "point of pride" for young women, including her young daughter, Corey shared, "I never thought about sex or gender as being a barrier... I did not set out in this world to be a pioneering female in fields [where women are the minority]. I just happen to be in fields that I think present challenges that I enjoy." Corey also touched on potential challenges of a liberal arts college in a conservative leaning community. She stated, "Rather than the transfer of a political perspective, what we hope for is the transfer of values... But, you know, we really are a reflection of the broad community... We have about a 16 county region that represents our core population and they're first generation, many are rural, a lot of them are agricultural. So we look a lot like [Wilmington's] community." Corey also shared exciting news of WC's largest financial gift, $23 million from late Coach Jerry Scheve, to build a new indoor track facility, ADA accessible entryway, and other athletic upgrades. In closing, she stated, "I feel like I'm on a journey, an adventure. This life is an adventure and I'd love to try everything I can in this adventure. and so opportunities that present themselves, even those that seem challenging, I want to give a try." Listen to Corey's full story on episode 75 of The Real Change Wilmington Podcast. Learn more about WC at wilmington.edu .

From the left, Russ Kincaid, Kyla Begley, President Corey Cockerill, and Samantha Martin chat following the banquet held in honor of the first cohort of Choose Ohio First grant recipients. As Dr. Russell Kincaid scanned across the room, viewing Wilmington College’s inaugural cohort of Choose Ohio First recipients, he alluded to the world of professional sports in which teams select the most promising and accomplished players. “With all of you here, Wilmington College had an excellent draft!” he said. Last year, the Ohio Department of Education awarded the College a $728,000 Choose Ohio First grant to support students entering STEM fields at WC. The grant will support five cohorts of students, each receiving $52,000 annually for four years. The College recognized the first cohort of 15 students at a banquet on Sept. 22. The grant will provide scholarships to students pursuing degrees in targeted STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) disciplines at the College, including the fields of agriculture/animal science, chemistry, biology/life science, and environmental science. President Corey Cockerill noted this grant will enable the College to recruit and retain underrepresented populations — including women, minority students, and first-generation college students from rural and Appalachian regions — into these academic programs, addressing critical workforce needs while enhancing diversity in these fields. “This initiative will directly support economic and job growth in key STEM areas, particularly throughout southwest Ohio,” she said. “By equipping students with the skills needed in critical industries like pharmaceuticals, agriculture, environmental science, and veterinary medicine, we are helping to fill regional labor shortages with well-prepared, highly skilled graduates.” At the banquet, Cockerill cited the legacy the first cohort of Choose Ohio First grant recipients is creating at WC. “We celebrate more than scholarship — we celebrate possibilities,” she said, noting the College offers a caring community that will support them in having an enriching educational experience. “We’re thrilled that you’re here.” The president cited Kincaid, professor of mathematics and physics, and the area coordinator for natural sciences, and other College officials for their work that led to the College securing the grant. Kincaid added that the College is committed to providing the students with an environment in which they can grow and reach their potential. “Each of these students distinguished themselves in high school,” he said. “We’re expecting big things from you at Wilmington College. We’re here to help you discover your purpose.” Adam Lohrey, vice president for enrollment management and marketing, said this grant dovetails well with the College’s hallmark for affordability in making higher education accessible to often underrepresented populations. “Wilmington College has worked hard to provide top-notch facilities and faculty expertise necessary to prepare students for in-demand STEM career fields,” Lohrey said. “With these additional scholarship funds, the College is poised for growth, making it more affordable than ever for students to meet the needs of our local economy.” The inaugural cohort includes Alyssa Ackroyd, Kyla Begley, Krystal Bunger, Alexander Cade, Addisyn Downing, Heather Dutenhaver, Rheyse Hamon, Adam Haney, Brooke Hatcher, Riley Lynn, Samantha Martin, Maggie Mirizzi, Dakota Pierson, Emma Powers, and Channing Toy. Article Submitted by Wilmington College

At the September 18, 2025, Police Chief Josh Gibson mentioned that the police department is increasing traffic enforcement to “promote public safety.” He stated that in the last two weeks, the department has conducted an additional 117 traffic stops and written 53 additional citations. According to Gibson, the department is currently targeting areas where they have received complaints, like West Main Street, Locus Street, and residential areas. Gibson encouraged residents to report violations, so police can continue to target areas of concern. Additionally, Mayor Pat Haley paid tribute to conservative political activist Charlie Kirk, who was murdered last week at Utah Valley University while hosting a public debate event. Haley stated, “I never met Charlie Kirk, and I didn’t follow his every word, but I did see him on television from time to time. He’s one of those faces you’d catch while flipping through the channels, confident, sharp, unafraid to speak his mind. Still, as a father, when news broke that at 31 he’d be shot down, murdered in cold blood for what he stood for, I couldn’t help but picture the shock and heartbreak his family must’ve felt when that call came.” At the conclusion of his tribute, he called for more police officers in Wilmington in response to the events. Haley stated, “Every time a national figure is targeted, it’s not just their immediate circle that suffers. The shockwaves ripple outward. It emboldens the unstable, the angry, the ones who already think violence is an answer… We have to meet this moment with action and not just words, and that means taking a hard look at how we protect our community.” To learn more, visit wilmingtonohio.gov .

Bill Liermann WILMINGTON, Ohio (September 24, 2025)— There is a vacancy on the Wilmington City Schools Board of Education due to the resignation of Bill Liermann, effective September 23, 2025. The Board wants to thank Mr. Liermann for his years of service to the Wilmington City School Board of Education. The Board must begin the process to replace Mr. Liermann and name the replacement within 30 days. The newly appointed school board member will serve until December 31, 2027. Citizens interested in being considered for appointment to the Wilmington City School Board of Education should send their letter of interest to Kim DeWeese at kim.deweese@wilmington.k12.oh.us or deliver/mail to WCS Central Office, 341 S. Nelson Avenue. Application deadline is September 30, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. According to the Ohio School Boards Association, people serving on school boards in Ohio must be at least 18 years old, district residents, and registered voters. If they wish to continue service on the school board, they will stand for election in November of 2027 for the term beginning January 1, 2028. The Board of Education will interview interested candidates at a special meeting that will be held on October 2, 2025, at the Board of Education office located at 341 S Nelson Ave, Wilmington, OH 45177. The meeting start time will be announced shortly, and a meeting notice will be published. The Board of Education plans to appoint the new member at the regular meeting scheduled on October 27, 2025. Article Released by Wilmington City Schools

At the September 18, 2025, Sanitation Superintendent Cody Romohr discussed increasing trash collection rates and tipping fees. He stated that the current rate of $21.93 a month is significantly less expensive than other local companies. He proposed a five percent increase in curbside trash collection fees, raising the price to $23.03 per month. This increase would generate an additional $50,000 to $55,000 per month to cover the costs of fuel prices, tires, employees’ wages, and inflation. Romohr also suggested increasing the cost of the tipping fee from $40 a ton to $45. He stated that this would still keep Wilmington’s prices cheaper than most other local landfills. To learn more or view previous City Council meetings, visit https://wilmingtonohio.gov/ .

Wilmington Water Tower At the September 18, 2025, city council members voted on a resolution in support of Ohio House Bill 182, a bill proposed by Representative Levi Dean that would prohibit public water systems from adding fluoride to city water. Representative Dean previously expressed that support from local municipalities could help the bill’s progress. After a brief discussion, the council members passed the resolution expressing their support for the bill. The council members also had the third reading of Ordinance 25-55, regarding the repeal and replacement of Chapter 714. Chapter 714 discusses the city’s restrictions on “time, place, and manner” of when individuals may solicit and distribute material in the city. In addition to other changes, the replacement chapter lists the exemptions for those NOT required to have a license, which includes "canvassers". The chapter defines canvassers as: “Any person who travels from place to place by foot, motor vehicle, or other conveyance for the purpose of disseminating religious, political, social, or other ideological beliefs and who does not request funds for any commercial purpose or offers goods, wares, food, merchandise, or services for sale.” To learn more or view previous City Council meetings, visit wilmingtonohio.gov .