HE'S HOME

PHOTO GALLERY

Hundreds of people gathered early this morning at the Lorain County Regional Airport to be a part of the motorcade escorting the body of Captain Michael J. Medders. Members of Law Enforcement from many local agencies as well as Deputies from the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office and Troopers from the Ohio State Highway Patrol were on hand to pay their respects to not only Captain Medders but also to his father, Elyria Police Chief Michael Medders.

Others on hand were local Dignitaries, Firefighters, Paramedics, Metro Parks Rangers and members of the Patriot Guard Riders.

Around 11:40am a jet began to circle the airport – the crowd of over 100 fell silent. At that moment it began to truly sink in what everyone was there for. Five minutes later the jet landed and taxied to the receiving area. As the jet pulled up the voice of Elyria Police Sergeant Matt=2 0Eichenlaub rang out – “Detail Attention – Present Arms.” At that point the nearly one hundred in the detail raised their right hands sharply and saluted.


All eyes were on the aircraft that delivered Captain Medders back home as a side cargo door opened. As the casket was brought to the front of the plane family members began holding tight to each other crying.

After the Army Pall Bearers transferred Captain Medders from the aircraft to the hearse the procession to the funeral home began. The 20-mile route took the motorcade through 7 townships and cities with intersections being blocked by local Police, Fire and EMS vehicles.

One of the more moving moments occurred when the motorcade rounded Lake Ave onto West Ave approaching the Police Department. The motorcade was met with a large flag hanging over the road attached to aerial trucks from the Elyria and Sheffield Village Fire Departments. Standing at attention in front of the Elyria Police Station were Police Officers, Corrections Officers and other Staff from the station. On the other side of the street were Elyria Municipal Court employees and others showing their support to the family and to saying thank you to Captain Medders.

After a brief pause in front of the Elyria Police Department the motorcade drove past City Hall and the Justice Center where hundreds of people had assembled.

Further along the route school children and their teachers stood with flags at the corner of Broad & Cedar to watch the motorcade pass by. School children from Ely also stood along Gulf Road to pay their respects.

Avon Firefighters also had a large American Flag hanging from their aerial truck as the motorcade passed through Avon into Avon Lake on Route 83.

Teachers and staff from Avon Lake High School stood along the road as their former student passed by them – tears filling their eyes. Avon Lake Schools Superintendent Robert Scott said that many of the teachers had Medders as a Student and this tragedy has hit them very hard. “It’s devastating and this is the time for the community to pull together. Our staff has been helping each other deal with this – he was just such a good kid and he touched so many people in his life.”

The procession ended next door to the high school at the Busch Family Funeral Home. The Army Pall Bearers moved Captain Medders into the funeral home from the hearse.

Visitation for Captain Medders will be held inside Avon Lake High School, 175 Avon-Belden Road, from 5-8pm Wednesday, October 1, 2008 and 3-5pm & 6-9pm Thursday, October 2, 2008.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Joseph Church, Avon Lake on Friday, October 3 at 10:00.

Burial to follow with full military honors St. Joseph Cemetery in Avon.


PHOTO GALLERY
The best way to view this gallery – click the “SLIDESHOW” button on the top right corner of the photo page.

A FAMILY SAYS THANK YOU

The Medders family wanted to thank everyone who touched Michael’s life; and those lives that he touched.

“There are no words to express our gratitude for the overwhelming support from family, friends, and surrounding community. Thank you for always being there for Michael, and for being there for us. You will never know how much that is appreciated. Michael held each and every one of you close to his heart. Michael lived life to the fullest with a contagious personality and infectious laughter. Most memories often include a one-of-a-kind story with a big smile. Though these times are difficult, we ask that you remember the light that surrounded Michael. Forever the optimist, Michael would ask that you remain positive through this unthinkable period. We are grieving in private with our family and friends. It is important to remember that Michael loved what he was doing, no matter how difficult it may have been. A soldier’s life is never easy.

Although we are hurting in the time of great sorrow, please pray for those who continue to serve our country and defend our freedom.”

Love, Michael, Lynn, Stacey, Amanda, Dominick, Carrie and Kathy

Memorials may be forwarded to the Susan G. Komen, for the Cure – 5005 LBJ FWY, STE. 250, DALLAS TX, 75244

LOCAL HERO RETURNING HOME

PUBLIC INVITED TO LINE ROUTE

Captain Michael Joseph Medders, US ARMY, will be returned home tomorrow, Tuesday September 30, 2008. The plane carrying his casket is scheduled to arrive at Lorain County Regional Airport, 44054 Russia Road, Elyria, OH at 12:37PM. Members of his family will meet the plane escorted by US ARMY Honor Guard and US ARMY Pallbearers. The Family and hearse carrying the casket will be escorted by numerous Police Departments to The Busch Funeral Home at 163 Avon-Belden Road, Avon Lake.

The public is invited to line the route that his casket procession will take from the airport to the Busch Funeral Home. (See routes below) Mayor of Avon Lake Karl Zuber and Mayor of Elyria William Grace have both stated “Our communities will come together to show our respect for the tragic loss of Captain Medders, please join your fellow neighbors in showing signs of support lining the funeral processional routes Tuesday and Friday this week.”

Visitation for Captain Medders will be at Avon Lake High School, 175 Avon-Belden Road, from 5-8pm Wednesday, October 1, 2008 and 3-5pm & 6-9pm Thursday, October 2, 2008.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Joseph Church, 32929 Lake Road, Avon Lake, OH Friday, October 3 at 10:00am.

Captain Michael Joseph Medders will be buried with full military honors at St. Joseph Cemetery, 32789 Detroit Road in Avon, OH.

UPDATE: In a brief News Release today, the United States Defense Department said that Medders died on Wednesday, September 24th, in Jisr Naft, Iraq, of wounds suffered when a suicide bomber detonated a vest during operations. Medders was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Hood, Texas.

The route from the Airport to the Funeral Home is as follows:
RUSSIA ROAD turn right and go West.
Turn Right on OBERLIN ROAD.
Turn Right on ROUTE 113 heading Northeast to LOWELL STREET.
Turn Right on LOWELL STREET then Right on LAKE AVE.
LAKE AVE. becomes WEST AVE. at curve.
Procession will pause in front of the Elyria Police Department.
Left turn on BROAD STREET.
Right turn on COURT STREET (past the front of Elyria City Hall).
Turn Left on THIRD STREET.
Turn Left on EAST AVE.
Turn Right on SECOND ST. becomes CEDAR STREET.
Turn Right on BROAD ST.
Turn Left on EAST BRIDGE ST.
Veer to Left onto GULF ROAD going North.
Turn Right on ROUTE 254 going East.
Turn Left on ROUTE 611.
Turn Right on CHESTER ROAD.
Turn Left on ROUTE 83 going North on ROUTE 83 arriving at the BUSCH FUNERAL HOME.


The route from the church to the cemetery is as follows:
Leaving the church we will exit the parking lot onto ELECTRIC BLVD and will go east to Rt. 83
Turn right on RT. 83 going south.
Turn left on WALKER RD going east.
Turn right on LEAR RD going south.
Turn left on DETROIT RD. going east to St. Joseph Cemetery

MAN DROWNS IN POND

DEVELOPING STORY
Camden Township – Paramedics and Firefighters rushed to a home on Baird Road, just south of Route 303, Sunday afternoon after receiving reports of a man in a pond.

The man was already out of the water when help arrived with CPR being performed. Paramedics took over care and transported the victim to Allen Medical Center in Oberlin where a Toledo Life Flight helicopter was waiting.

Attempts to resuscitate the victim were unsuccessful.

The Lorain County Sheriff’s Department arrived on the scene and are conducting an investigation into the drowning.

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"WELL, ARE YOU?"

Well, we only have one day left in National Preparedness Month so I wanted to post the TMC NEWS POLL QUESTION “Are You Ready?” one more time.

In the event of a local disaster and you and your family must evacuate immediately – will you be ready? If the disaster is such that you must remain in your home for several days with no help from the outside – will you be ready?

Do you and your family have a plan in place? Have you practiced it?

Since this poll was first posted only 125 votes have been cast with 82 saying they have no plan in place – 22 say they are ready and 21 said they did not but they will soon. So if you have not yet voted – do it NOW!

Are you prepared? If not, the Lorain County Emergency Management Agency invites you to pick up the phone and give them a call at 440.329-5117. They will send you, free of charge, a pamphlet with complete details about how to build your emergency evacuation kit. The pamphlet also provides tips about how to create a plan for you and your family in the case of an emergency.

Make the call today – Be PREPARED!

PAUL NEWMAN DIES AT 83

Paul Leonard Newman, a Hollywood Icon for more than 50 years, died Friday of Cancer according to his Publicist, Jeff Sanderson. Newman was 83.

Newman starred in more than 65 movies over a 50 year span including the Sundance Kid in 1969 and The Sting in 1973. Newman won an Academy Award late in his career for his role as Fast Eddie in The Color of Money co-starring with Tom Cruise.

Newman was born in Shaker Heights, Ohio on January 26, 1925. He joined the Navy in World War II and served as a rear-seat radioman and tail gunner aboard Avenger Torpedo Bombers in the Pacific Theatre.
In 1954 Newman almost ended his career after, what he considered to be a second-rate performance in “The Chalice” – Newman took out a full-page ad in a Hollywood Trade publication apologizing for his performance.

He went on though to star in such films as; “Somebody up there likes me”, “Cat on a Hot Time Roof”, “Exodus”, “The Hustler”, “Cool Hand Luke”, “The Towering Inferno”, "Fort Apache, the Bronx", "The Verdict", "Nobody's Fool", "The Road to Perdition", and as the voice of a vintage Hudson in the animated "Cars"

Newman had six children, 5 daughters and one son named Scott who died of a drug overdose in 1978.

Newman retired from acting in movies last year saying, "You start to lose your memory, you start to lose your confidence, and you start to lose your invention. So I think that's pretty much a closed book for me.”

CERT TRAINING INFORMATION

The Lorain County Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security announce COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM Training Sponsored by The Lorain County Board of Commissioners.

Following a disaster, first responders may not be able to totally meet the initial demands for emergency services. Factors such as widespread damage, number of victims, communication failures, and road blockages will hinder people from accessing emergency services they have come to expect at a moment’s notice through 9-1-1. People will have to rely on each other for help in order to meet their immediate life saving and life sustaining needs.

CERT trains neighborhood community members to respond to a disaster effectively and efficiently without placing themselves in danger. During this team-based training, volunteers learn how to provide basic medical aid, put out small fires, search for and rescue safely, organize themselves and other spontaneous volunteers effectively, and collect disaster intelligence to support trained professionals.

The 24 Hour Course Syllabus includes: Team Organization, Disaster Preparedness, Disaster Psychology, Fire Suppression, Disaster Medical Operations I & II, Terrorism, Disaster Simulation and Course Review.

All components must be completed in order to receive a certificate.

Date: October 14, 21, 28, and November 4, 11, 18, 2008.
(A different component will be reviewed each day)
Time: 6-10pm
Location: Lorain County Community College
College, EIC Building, 151 Innovation Drive, Elyria

There is a $25 cost for the class made payable to the Lorain County EMA

For Additional information please contact: Alice Webber 440-329-5117, Lorain County EMA Office

MYSTERY BAG PROMPTS EVACUATION

Amherst – A mysterious bag found near the fuel pumps at the Middle Ridge Plaza on the Ohio Turnpike Thursday night caused an evacuation of the Plaza by Officials.

Detective Sergeant Dan Jasinski of the Amherst Police Department reported that their Department responded to the Plaza at 7:44pm after receiving a call from the Ohio State Highway Patrol Turnpike District advising a suspicious item had been left at the fuel pumps in front of the Plaza. “On arrival officers observed a grey nylon suitcase measuring approximately two feet (2') in height, one and one half feet (1.5') wide and one foot (1') deep near fuel pump #2 of the southern fuel station. A thin, wire-like object was protruding from the suitcase.”

Jasinski said Troopers from the Turnpike District evacuated the occupants and workers at the Plaza. The Lorain County Sheriff's Office, the Lorain County Bomb Squad, the Amherst Fire Department, the Lorain County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) and LifeCare Ambulance responded to the scene.

While the Bomb Squad was investigating the suitcase, Amherst Officers were notified that a male had contacted the Turnpike Plaza to advise them he had accidentally forgotten his suitcase at the fuel pump after he refueled his vehicle. According to the caller, the suitcase contained various types of cardiovascular medical equipment. The suitcase was further investigated and it was confirmed to contain medical equipment.

Arrangements were made for the owner to retrieve the suitcase from the Amherst Police Department when he returns home to Brecksville from Toledo.The suitcase owner's name may be released at a later date pending confirmation of his identity and discussion with him of the public inconvenience and resources expended as a result of his actions.

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POLICE CHIEF’S SON KILLED IN IRAQ

Elyria – Michael Medders Jr., son of Elyria Police Chief Michael Medders has been killed in Iraq. According to Captain Dan Jaykel of the Elyria Police Department, the Department received word about the tragic death this morning but no other information such as the how or where. “That is information that I am sure will come out in the days or weeks to come. Right now the Department is focusing on Mike, his wife and their family. They are in our thoughts and in our prayers.”

Jaykel said that funeral arrangements are pending but said that whatever the Medders family needs everyone within the Department will be there to support the Chief and the family. “We all live for our families, I cannot imagine the pain and devastation. They are all in our prayers today.”

The young Medders graduated from Avon Lake High School in 2001. A testament to his personality and the mark he left at the school was demonstrated today when staff members, after hearing of his death, left work to go home – too shaken up to finish the day.

Medders wore the number 66 for the Avon Lake Sailors Football team and also played Baseball and Basketball. He was also known as an accomplished singer performing in an advanced choir at Avon Lake HS. In his spare time Medders also gave his time to coach girls Powder Puff Football team.

Along with the sports and singing, Medders was also a member of Student Government and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

The school Flag was lowered to half staff today in tribute to one of their own.

Medders, a Captain in the United States Army, was injured this past May – 30 miles north of Baghdad when a roadside bomb exploded. After a period of recovering from a concussion, Medders returned to the battlefield. Medders father is an Army Veteran.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

Anyone who would like to leave words of condolence and support to the Chief and his family in this most difficult time , you can leave them in the comments section. All messages will be forwarded to the Chief at the appropriate time.

AMHERST BUSTS “FAKE COPS”

Amherst – Amherst Police Officers were dispatched to Route 58 in the early morning hours of Sunday after two kids reportedly attempted to perform a traffic stop in the Ford Crown Vic that they were driving.

The caller told Police Dispatchers that the two occupants were yelling for him to pull over on the highway using red and blue strobe lights and a police style air horn. The caller further stated that the two then drove past him giving him the middle finger.

After a brief investigation by Amherst Police the vehicle and two suspects were located.

Joseph Gargasz, the operator of the vehicle, was arrested for Personating Police Officer; Ohio Revised Code 2921.51 (M2), Obstructing Official Business; Ohio Revised Code 2921.31 (M2), Criminal Tools; Ohio Revised Code 2921.31 (M2), CCW; Ohio Revised Code 2921.31 (M2), and Disorderly Conduct; Amherst Codified Ordinance 509.03 (MM).

Gargasz posted a $3,900 bond and is due in Oberlin Municipal Court on October 8th.

A 16-year old Amherst juvenile was cited for Personating Police Officer; Ohio Revised Code 2921.51, Obstructing Official Business; Ohio Revised Code 2921.31 (M2), Criminal Tools; Ohio Revised Code 2921.31 (M2), CCW; Ohio Revised Code 2921.31 (M2), Curfew; Amherst Codified Ordinance 511.02 (MM), and Disorderly Conduct; Amherst Codified Ordinance 509.03 (MM).

The juvenile was released to his parents and advised they would receive notification via mail when to appear in Juvenile Court.

Eric Long of Amherst, the juvenile’s father, was cited for Parental Responsibility, Amherst Codified Ordinance 511.06 (MM).

Mr. Long will also appear in Oberlin Municipal Court on October 8th at 8:30am.

The vehicle, owned by the juvenile’s parents, was towed to the police department. The police department required the removal of any police lighting, sirens, horns, or similar equipment before the vehicle was released back to the owners.

FIRE ON RUSH DESTROYS GARAGE

Elyria – A late night fire destroyed a garage and damaged portions of the unattached house on Rush Street in Elyria.

Assistant Chief Ron Brlas of the Elyria Fire Department said initial reports of the location were conflicting; “We were being told that there was a garage fire at the corner of Lowell and Elbe and then also at the dead end of Rush Street. It ended up being on Rush Street behind 130 Rush. When we arrived the garage was fully involved and had extended to an out building located next to the garage.”

The fire was so intense that the radiant heat caused heavy damage the side and rear of the house.

Brlas said that Firefighters first worked on extinguishing the body of the fire and then focused on the home and out building. “The out building had fire to the front but never really got going and the house just received damage due to the heat and that was mostly melted siding.”

The home was vacant and is a foreclosure house according to neighbors.

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OOOPS, WAS THAT A GAS LINE?

Amherst – Construction workers digging on Cooper Foster Park Road in Amherst this morning struck a gas line with the tooth from their back hoe.

Assistant Chief Jim Wilhelm of the Amherst Fire Department said the crew was doing work on the property that will soon be the home of Dovin Funeral home. “The contractor, while digging near the road, dug through a 6” gas main that appears to be a medium pressure main. Must have put one of his teeth into the plastic pipe and there was a pretty good amount of gas coming out of there when we pulled up.”

Wilhelm said that once he saw the amount of gas spewing out of the main he had Amherst Police shut down Cooper Foster from Leavitt to Terra Lane. Police were assisted by Lorain Police Auxiliary in the road closure. Lorain Firefighters were also providing assistance with a crew during the hour long ordeal.

Police and Firefighters knocked on the doors of the two homes next door to the leak to make sure everyone was out of the house. Firefighters walked the neighborhood with gas meters to determine the danger level. “Basically I wanted them to canvas the allotment to read the LEL (Lower Explosive Limit) of the natural gas to ensure we didn’t have any explosive levels throughout the neighborhood.”

Firefighters only detected odors in the neighborhood surrounding the leak – Wilhelm said the wind helped prevent the situation from becoming worse. “The winds helped dissipate the fumes instead of it laying there in pockets, making it a more dangerous situation.”

Wilhelm said that crews from Columbia Gas arrived and plugged the hole. Shortly after the hole was plugged the road was reopened to traffic. Columbia Gas remained on scene to repair the line.

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ARE YOU PREPARED?

Elyria – Last Sunday Lorain County experienced the remnants of Hurricane Ike – the storm blew through killing a young child, injuring others and knocking out power to thousands for days.

TMC NEWS sat down inside of the Lorain County Emergency Operations Center for a conversation with Tom Kelley, Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Management for Lorain County and Alice Webber, Emergency Operations Manager for Lorain County. The topic: National Preparedness Month.

Kelley said that the Federal Government has designated September as “National Preparedness Month” – trying to get individuals and families to understand that they need to plan for emergencies. “Families need to plan before emergencies – they need to create a plan, make sure everyone in the family knows the plan and most importantly, practice that plan.”

Kelley said that the main disasters that we need to worry about in this area deal with severe weather. “Number one would be flooding, followed closely by severe thunderstorms and tornados. We are also in an area where we need to be ready for a HAZMAT incident. But our goal here is to have the people ready for pretty much anything. For an example, Hurricane Ike and the people in Galveston and those areas where people refused to leave when they were suppose to and then they become part of the problem. The public’s preparedness directly relates upon your communities preparedness abilities too.”

Officials want the pubic to be prepared to evacuate whether the notice is a week in advance or a knock at the door at 3AM telling you to go.

Webber said that one of the items you will need when you leave is documented proof of who you are and that you live where you say you live. “That was one of the problems after Hurricane Katrina, People didn’t have any documentation saying that this was my residence, this is my proof. In order to get their help from FEMA they needed that information. They needed something like a water bill, any utility bill, a birth certificate, any documentation proving who they are.”

The family emergency evacuation kit could be a Rubbermaid tub or a duffle bag Weber said, just as long as it is in the house and ready to go at a moments notice if needed. “Remember it has to be mobile and you should have canned food, bottled water, a can opener, batteries, a portable radio – things you would need to survive until someone could get to you and help.”

Kelley said that along with the KIT your family should also have a plan in place for any emergency. “Have all of your personal papers ready, have a gathering place outside of the home, and have a relative or someplace that you can go if you have to leave for an extended period of time. We plan for about 30% of the evacuees to go to a shelter; usually everybody else goes someplace else.”

It is also important to have copies of credit cards, everybody’s birth certificates, important phone numbers, and any other important documents that you may need if you are away from your home for an extended period of time. A little cash on hand wouldn’t hurt either.

One recent scare is the Pandemic Flu that Webber said could quarantine a family for 10 days or more. “You should be prepared to be quarantined inside of your home for 10 days without any food being delivered or without any kind of assistance and you will have to sustain yourself for that many days, if not more depending on your family members – if a family member gets sick then you will be quarantined again with them.”

Kelley said people shouldn’t only focus on weather related scenarios for potential disasters. “We sit on one of the busiest highway, railway transportation corridors that carry hazardous materials in the United States – which is the Ohio Turnpike and the railroads that come through the towns. We’re in the flight path for Hopkins Airport – so there are incidents that could occur in a split second that would require residents to evacuate. We have thousands of shipments of Hazardous Materials that go through here everyday, that’s anything from gasoline to extremely hazardous substances. We have chemicals that are used and stored in this county that the minimum evacuation radius is 10 miles around the facility, so you can understand, when you need to move, you NEED to move.”

TMC: So we have chemicals that are being used and stored here in our county, that if there were a spill or an explosion, the evacuation area would be 10 miles?

Kelley: If it were a total worse case release, the minimum evacuation radius around that facility or tanker, would be 10 miles.

TMC: Are we ready for that?

Kelley: Plans are in place to deal with emergencies in the County, but there are different levels that we have to escalate to in the event that it gets bigger then we expect.

For those who think these types of incidents could not happen here, Kelley tells of a case that occurred about a year ago as a train carrying petroleum gas rolled through Lorain County. “A wheel broke on a rail car and started rubbing up against the bottom of the tank car and came within about a half inch of wearing through the tank. If it would have worn through there – the resulting fire and explosion – it would have been devastating, we would have had all kinds of problems. Not only from the initial blast, which would have killed people, probably. The rest of the train would have been involved cause there were numerous tank cars in there – whatever the surrounding area that might become involved, that would be a very large incident. Take a look at Lake County here last spring, they had a derailment, it burnt for20three days, they evacuated how many thousands of people who were all gone for three days. That train came through here. That train came through Lorain County about an hour before that, before the wheel broke there and caused the problem – that could have been us.”

Kelley finished the interview by saying; “If anything keeps me awake at night, it’s that people don’t take this seriously.”

Are you prepared? If not, the Lorain County Emergency Management Agency invites you to pick up the phone and give them a call at 440.329-5117. They will send you, free of charge, a pamphlet with complete details about how to build your emergency evacuation kit. The pamphlet also provides tips about how to create a plan for you and your family in the case of an emergency.

Make the call today – Be PREPARED!

CARLISLE FIRE CAR & BIKE SHOW

Carlisle Township – Although the Golf Cart Races had to be canceled today at the 2nd Annual Carlisle Township Fire Department Car & Bike Show, there were still plenty of things to do.

Guests were treated to a car and motorcycle show, great food, water fights, music, and of course the highlight of the afternoon – a visit from Metro LifeFlight. Kids, and adults, were given stickers from the LifeFlight crew and were able to crawl inside to have their pictures taken at the controls.

A stunt motorcyclist also entertained the guests performing various stunts in the back parking lot.

PHOTO GALLERY – For best viewing, click the “SLIDESHOW” button on the photo page (top right corner).

THE APPLE FESTIVAL WAS APPLERRIFIC

Elyria – Applerrific – It is a word right? Well, the 2008 Elyria Apple Festival is in the books and by all accounts this year’s event was Applexcellent. To see a few photos from the event: CLICK HERE

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To learn more information about Great Lakes Church

and their GRAND OPENING celebration: CLICK HERE

BLACK TIE EVENT & YOU'RE INVITED

The Lorain Police Department invite you to join them at the 17th Annual Lorain Policeman’s Ball – Sweetest Day Dance. This is a BLACK TIE event and is OPEN TO THE PUBLIC - all are invited and encouraged to attend. Organizers hope to make this a countywide event to celebrate law enforcement officers and public servants alike.

The event will be held on Saturday October 18th from 7PM to 2AM at Deluca’s Place in the Park on Middle Ridge Road in Lorain.

A professional D.J. will be providing music and entertainment all night long. There will be unlimited hot and cold appetizers, including ALL YOU CAN EAT SHRIMP AND BEEF TENDERLOIN. In addition, there will be a deluxe dessert buffet and an OPEN BAR ALL NIGHT LONG.

A Special Tribute to the Military will be presented promptly at 7PM. Any current Active Reservist / Active Duty or Veterans of Foreign War or Conflict WILL be reimbursed for his/her ticket if they wear their Class “A” (Formal Dress) Uniform to the Ball. If you have any questions about the Tribute please contact Jim McCann @ jim_mccann@cityoflorain.org

The cost of the event is only $80.00 per couple and includes everything from the food, entertainment and the all night open bar. FREE LIMOUSINE RIDES HOME will also be provided. Single seats tickets are also available for $40.00.

For tickets contact Bob Brown, Ralph Gonzalez or Jim McCann (or any Lorain Police Officer) at the Lorain Police Department by calling 440.204.2100.

Special discounts: The Elyria Holiday Inn will be providing special room rates for guests – In addition to the room, any registered guest will receive a Limousine ride to the Ball.

Rakich & Rakich, located on Broadway in downtown Lorain, will be offering special rates on Tuxedo’s and also selling tickets to the Ball.

AMHERST RESIDENTS HAVE HAD IT

COPS TO CRACKDOWN ON

RECKLESS BICYCLISTS & SKATEBOARDERS

The Amherst Police Department has received numerous complaints through phone calls, e-mails, council members and downtown business owners of juvenile and young adult bicyclists riding without due regard for the safety and rights of other pedestrians and vehicular traffic. The complaints also referenced juvenile and young adult skate boarders and pedestrian traffic whose actions hinder the free movement of vehicular traffic and cause damage on private and public property.

A common method employed by law enforcement to reduce violations of law is to raise public awareness through advertisement and proactive enforcement.

Therefore, as a public service announcement, the Amherst Police Department would like to announce that in the upcoming weeks, patrol officers will proactively enforce necessary laws throughout the city with special attention to the school and downtown areas. Pedestrian and Bicyclists who operate in the City of Amherst are governed by Amherst Codified Ordinance Chapters 371 and 373, which can be found online at http://www.goamherst.com and clicking on the Codified Ordinance Online link. In addition, Chapter 311.03 discusses the use of Toy Vehicles on Streets.

Young adults and parents of juveniles should familiarize themselves with the current laws as they pertain to the above issues as it will help ensure the continued safety of not only themselves, but of other residents and visitors of the city.

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THE LEADER OF THE BAND

Senior Drum Major Kyle Abby leads the Medina High School Marching Band at the “A Night in the City – 2008 Showcase of Bands” presented by the Amherst High School Marching Band.

In Medina’s final selection Abby lead the 200 + member band in a thunderous and chilling rendition of Antonín Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9 in E Minor. A tough piece for any Orchestra, the bands performance was seemingly flawless. The piece was so moving it received the only standing ovation of the night from the packed stands.

PHOTO GALLERY – For best viewing, click the “SLIDESHOW” button on the photo page (top right corner).

WATCH THOSE SIGNS

A crash in the intersection of West Ridge Road & Russia Road occurred just after 2PM when a woman entered the intersection after stopping, thinking it was a four way stop. A minivan traveling on West Ridge attempted to avoid the crash but was too late.

Both drivers told LifeCare Paramedics that they were not injured – only shaken up. Both refused transport.

A sign just below the stop sign clearly tells drivers that “cross traffic does not stop”.


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WHAT TO DO THIS WEEKEND?

If you are looking for something to do this weekend you certainly have plenty of options.

All weekend long of course Elyria has their Apple Festival at Ely Square in downtown.

Saturday
The Amherst High School Marching Band invites you to join them for “A Night in the City – 2008 Showcase of Bands”

This year’s Showcase will feature Marching Bands from Buckeye, Tallmadge, Revere, Wellington, Avon, Orchard Park, Medina and of course your host Amherst. The event begins at 7PM with an admission of $5.00 for adult and $4.00 for seniors and students.

Sunday
The Vermilion Fire Department invite you to join them for a Pancake Breakfast from 8AM to 12:30PM at their #1 Fire Station located at 5467 Ohio Street. Pancakes, Sausage, Orange Juice, Coffee and Milk will be served. Donations will support the Vermilion Fire Company Social Club.

The Carlisle Township Fire Department invites you to join them for their 2nd Annual Car & Bike Show. Entry fee is $10.00. Registration will be 9AM to 2PM with judging at 3PM. Golf Cart races – $15.00 per cart. Corn hole Tournament. For more information: 440.458.5178

The Elyria Catholic High School Softball Team is holding their 1st Annual Mattress Fundraiser from 10AM to 5PM at the school. All mattresses are brand names, including Simmons, Serta and Southerland. All profits go directly to the ECHS Softball Team. Prices are 40 to 60% off retail. Delivery available. Cash, Checks & credit cards accepted.

The Friends of the Herrick Memorial Library invite you to join them for the 26th Annual Harvest of the Arts at the Wellington Village Hall, 115 Willard Memorial Square from 11AM to 4PM. Beautiful setting in historic park with over 100 Ohio artisans participating in the fine arts, folk arts and performing arts. Includes live music, children's activities, raffle and lunch available in the town hall Cafe.

A “PET” LIFE SAVING DONATION

Amherst – Firefighters in Amherst have a new piece of life saving equipment on their truck after receiving a donation from a local Invisible Fence company.

Justin Henry of the North Olmsted Invisible Fence West said that part of their companies mission is to keep dogs safe and out of danger, so this donation is just part of what they do. “There has been such a demand in communities throughout Ohio for this equipment to be added to Fire Departments and we felt that it was something that we should take part in making it happen.”

The equipment; “Oxygen Recovery Masks – Kit for Pets”. The kit comes with three mask sizes; larger size for big dogs, medium for smaller dogs and the small size is used for cats and other smaller family pets. The masks, just like an oxygen mask used by a human, attaches to an oxygen tank and placed over the pets mouth.

The Invisible Fence company has already donated 50 kits to Fire Departments in Northeast Ohio and plan to continue until all Departments have the kit on their trucks. Henry said that when the kits first came out many Departments made the purchase and in other cases he said local Veterinarians purchased them for their Departments. “For us we would like to fill in the holes, for those Fire Departments that do not have the kits yet we would like to talk to them.”

Chief Wayne Northeim of the Amherst Fire Department said he and his Department is grateful to Henry and the Invisible Fence Company. “This will be a nice addition to our equipment list, it will be nice to be able to resuscitate a family pet if the situation arises. I know many families regard their pets as a part of their family so this will certainly be nice to have on board.”

Henry said that if any Department in the area is interested in the kit they can contact them at their North Olmsted office either by phone or Email. ClevelandWest@invisiblefence.com - 440.777.0022 or 800.824.3647

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HOUSE FIRE DEEMED SUSPICIOUS

Elyria – Just hours after Firefighters finished up with the Murbach building fire they were called out to West River Road North for a house fire.

Assistant Chief Ron Brlas of the Elyria Fire Department said they received the call at 4:40pm Thursday. “When we arrived we found a single family dwelling with an attached garage – smoke was coming from the eves and from the south wall. Engine One crew went through the front door with an attack line while other crews worked on ventilation.”

Firefighters ventilated the home by cutting holes in the roof and taking out the front windows.

Brlas said that they found a 2’x2’ hole cut in the back wall of the garage. “Neighbors tell us that people have been using that hole to gain entry into the home now for awhile.”

The home has been unoccupied for an undetermined amount of time.

Fire Officials have begun their investigation and have already labeled the blaze as “suspicious in nature.”

There were no injuries reported.

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FIRE AT THE BRICKYARD

TWO FIREFIGHTERS INJURED

Elyria – Firefighters in Elyria were busy early Thursday morning battling a blaze at the old Murbach Supply Warehouse “The Brickyard” on North Street.

Chief Joe Pronesti of the Elyria Fire Department said they received the call after neighbors saw smoke coming from the abandoned building. “When our guys arrived they found heavy smoke coming from the building – they went into an interior attack. The conditions worsened and the guys were pulled back out. We ventilated and then went back inside and knocked down the fire.”

Pronesti said that along with the fire, the building came with some obstacles for the Firefighters. “There were holes in the floor – the holes were actually old coal chutes used by Murbach Coal. Way back when they would receive coal deliveries the trucks would back up to the building and drop the coal through these chutes and that is how they would distribute the coal. The problem was a lot of the man hole covers were off of the chutes and that’s where a couple of our guys stepped into them.”

Two Firefighters were injured while performing over haul on the building. Pronesti said that one of the men remain on duty while the other was transported to the hospital with neck and back injuries.

Pronesti said that due to low manpower mutual aid assistance was called from surrounding communities. “When we run four Engines the fourth one is acts as our RIT (Rapid Intervention Team) but because we only had three we had Avon respond to the scene. Originally they were acting as our RIT but then we put them to work inside of the building.”

Sheffield Village and Lorain provided assistance by covering the stations in case of another call within the city.

The Fire Prevention Bureau is investigating the cause of the blaze.



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CORRECTION: It was written in this story that the two Firefighters were injured when they stepped into a coal chute hole. Although Firefighters did run across those obstacles with open coal chute holes, the two Firefighters that were injured actually had a ceiling collapse on them during overhaul.

UPDATE: In a conversation with Chief Pronesti tonight he reports that the Firefighter that was taken to the hospital from the scene last night was treated and released. “That was Pat Monda and he is resting at home, a little sore still, but he will be fine. The other Firefighter, Dean Marks, was called in last night and today is his regular duty day so he is still on duty right now and also doing fine.”

KITCHEN FIRE IN AMHERST

Amherst Township – Firefighters from South Amherst and Amherst battled a kitchen fire on Baumhart Road Wednesday afternoon.

Fire Officials said that the blaze started as a grease fire on the stove then the flames began to climb up the wall to a shelf. The fire was brought under control in a matter of minutes by South Amherst Firefighters and completely knocked down a short time later.

There were no injuries reported and everyone was able to get out of the house before Firefighters arrived.

Amherst, Vermilion and Florence Township were called to assist.

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HOW DO YOU LIKE THEM APPLES?

We have been receiving numerous Emails and phone calls from people saying that they had heard that the Elyria Apple Festival was canceled for this year due to the weather related issues.

We went right to the top and spoke with the Apple Festival Chairperson Linda Brown and asked her is the rumors were true. “Absolutely not true, set up will begin Thursday at 11am and the forecast for this weekend is perfect. I fully expect a beautiful weekend and I hope everyone comes out to enjoy the festival.”

So there you have it, another rumor put to rest. See you this weekend.

For complete details on this weekends festival you can visit thier website: http://www.elyriaapplefestival.com/

MISSING: ADULT & INFANT CHILD

The Lorain Police Department has issued an AMBER ALERT for a missing mother and her infant child.

Police say that Noelia Carrasquillo and her 4 month old daughter Trinny Rivera were reported missing by Edwin Rivera, the father of the child.

Noelia left the residence walking with the child after a verbal dispute with Edwin. Some clothing items were taken however Noelia did not take her medication and suffers from asthma.

Noelia does not speak English and has only been in Ohio for less then 6 months and has no friends or family nearby. Please contact Sgt. Rivera of the Lorain Police Department with any information. 440.204.2100 or 204.2105

NO STEAK FOR YOU!

People who showed up at the Elyria Ponderosa were not reading any menu boards today; instead they were reading a CLOSED sign taped to the front door.

The sign simply tells steak fans, “Closed, the Lorain Ponderosa still open.”

DISASTER ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE

FOR LOW-INCOME FAMILIES, ELDERLY AND DISABLED

The Sept. 14 wind storm that left more than 2 million Ohioans facing long-term power outages is more than an inconvenience to food stamp recipients. According to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), food purchased with food stamps can be replaced in certain circumstances, including if it spoils because of a power outage lasting longer than four hours.

To replace spoiled food purchased with food stamps, individuals must visit their county department of job and family services (CDJFS) and complete and submit a “Statement Requesting Replacement of Food Stamp Benefits” form. This form must be submitted within 10 days of the event that caused the food to spoil (in this case, Sept. 14) or, if the person was away from home, 10 days from when the food spoilage was discovered. Individuals can request an amount equal to the amount of food lost, but not exceeding the food stamp allotment for the month in which the disaster occurred.

Additionally, ODJFS informed the directors of the county department of job and family and services (CDJFS) that they can offer disaster assistance to low-income victims of the storm. Through this program, each CDJFS can determine specific eligibility guidelines and the amount of funding that eligible individuals and families receive.

Families may qualify for up to $1,500 in Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) disaster assistance. Certain elderly and disabled individuals may qualify for up to $750 in disaster assistance.

To be eligible for TANF disaster assistance money, families must include a minor child or pregnant woman and have evidence of economic need. Elderly or disabled individuals who are not eligible for TANF assistance may be eligible for disaster assistance if they are at least 55 years old and childless, if they receive certain disability benefits, or if they were adversely affected by the severe weather and can provide evidence of economic need. Only one payment may be made per dwelling.

The local CDJFS offices will be accepting disaster assistance applications. A list of their addresses and telephone numbers may be found online at http://jfs.ohio.gov/County/cntydir.stm.

STATE CONTINUES STORM ASSESSMENT

Columbus - The Ohio Department of Public Safety and Ohio Emergency Management Agency are continuing to coordinate the state’s response to the major windstorm that swept through Ohio Sunday, caused by the remnants of Hurricane Ike. Six people lost their lives as a result of the storm, with widespread debris, damage and power outages impacting millions of Ohioans.

Governor Ted Strickland declared a state of emergency Monday in response to the widespread impact of Sunday’s major windstorm. State officials are monitoring the situation and coordinating resources to affected areas. State partners are working collectively in this effort and maintaining contact with their liaisons throughout the state and include the Ohio Emergency Management Agency and the Ohio State Highway Patrol, both divisions of the Ohio Department of Public Safety; Public Utilities Commission of Ohio; Ohio Department of Transportation; Ohio National Guard; Ohio Community Service Council; Department of Administrative Services; Ohio Department of Natural Resources; Ohio Department of Insurance; Department of Aging; Ohio Department of Health; and the American Red Cross.

Ohio's electric utility providers report significant progress has been made in the effort to restore power during the past 24 hours, with a reduction in the number of affected customers from 1.92 million yesterday, to 1.4 million this morning. As of 10 a.m.
- American Electric Power: Approximately 492,000 customers remain without service.
- Dayton Power & Light: Approximately 180,000 customers remain without service, down from more than 200,000 Sunday.
- Duke Energy: Approximately 446,000 customers in eight southwestern Ohio counties remain without service, down from a peak outage of more than 600,000 customers;
- First Energy: 260,000 customers remain without service in the utility provider’s Ohio Edison and Illuminating Co. service areas, down from a peak outage of more than one million customers;
- Ohio Rural Electric Cooperatives: 46,200 customers remain without service, as 10 of Ohio’s 24 electric cooperatives remain significantly impacted.
- AMP-Ohio: Among the 81 public power communities in Ohio, Columbus Public Power has fully restored service while Cleveland Public Power has reduced its impact from 15,000 customers to 850 customers as of this morning.

The Governor will visit the Cincinnati, Dayton and Columbus areas later today to view the storm’s impact and meet with local officials for the latest local assessments of recovery activities. Joining the Governor for today’s tour will be Ohio Adjutant General Greg Wayt, Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Henry Guzmán and Ohio Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Nancy Dragani.

Ohioans are again reminded to exercise caution as utility crews and local officials continue utility infrastructure repairs and restoration efforts. For the latest information on the state’s coordinated response to the storm, visit www.ema.ohio.gov.

MAN FLIPS CAR – END OVER END

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Lorain – Firefighters in Lorain had to get down in the mud early Tuesday morning after a man crashed his car on West 21st Street.

Police say the man told them that he had been drinking at a local bar before driving his Chevy Cavalier Convertible down West 21st Street. The man drove the car off the right side of the road flipping it end over end before coming to rest in a ditch.

Captain Jeff Fenn of the Lorain Fire Department said that from the time they received the call until the man was freed was 30 minutes. “We had to first determine the best and safest way to extricate him from the car. We initially thought we would work on removing him from the passenger side (north side) of the car but after inspecting how the vehicle was resting on the ground in the ditch we felt it was safest to take him out through the drivers side (closest to the road).”

Firefighters were able to stabilize the vehicle before using the Jaws of Life to cut the door off. Once it was removed a Firefighter was able to crawl inside of the car to assist getting the man out.

Once the man was removed from the car Paramedics from LifeCare Ambulance treated him on the scene. As the man was being loaded into the ambulance a Metro LifeFlight helicopter was landing in a field across the street.

Captain Fenn said he is unsure as to the condition of the man but did say that he was conscious and talking to them throughout the extrication process.

The man was flown to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland.

Police on scene say that although the investigation is ongoing, the man will likely be charged with OVI.

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WIND STORM FACT SHEET

Columbus – The State of Ohio Emergency Operations Center released the following information for those affected by Sunday’s storms.

Dial 911 for emergency cases, only. For all other issues:
Power Outage and Food Safety
· Perishable foods stored in the refrigerator will keep for 2-4 hours. For prolonged power outage, pack milk, other dairy products, meats, eggs, etc. in a cooler packed with ice.
· Items stored in the freezer will hold safely for 24 to 48 hours. For prolonged power outages, store freezer items in coolers packed with ice.
· Styrofoam coolers are fine for this purpose

Insurance (for wind/storm damage to homes)
· Call your insurance company as soon as you can. Be sure your agent knows how to contact you.
· Take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage if permitted by public safety authorities and if you will not endanger yourself. Call your local utility to let them know of any downed power lines.
DO NOT attempt to move any power lines that may have fallen on your property.
· Closely inspect property and cars for damage. Note and photograph any damage.
· If required to seek temporary housing, check your policy for “loss of use” coverage.
· Be sure everything is considered in your claim. Back up claims with written estimates.

Food Stamps – Job and Family Services
· If food purchased with the Ohio Direction Card spoiled because of the power outage, go to your local Job and Family Services office to be re-issued another card.

Mental Health
· Contact your local mental health agency if you or a family member are experiencing an increase in mental stress related to the power outage.

Traffic Signals
· Police say intersections without power should be used by motorists as four-way stops until power is restored. Use courtesy and caution when traveling through an intersection.

For further updates or assistance contact 2-1-1 or 3-1-1 (if available), or your local EMA office.

POWER REMAINS OUT IN LORAIN

Lorain – The Lorain Police Department announced this evening that portions of the city could be without power for the next couple of days.

Lieutenant Jim McCann of the Lorain Police Department said they have been in constant contact with Ohio Edison about the power issues. “The City of Lorain has suffered loss of power in various locations throughout the city. We have been advised by Ohio Edison that the power outages could last for the next 2-3 days.”

McCann said residents without power are encouraged to first contact family or friends for assistance. Those without power who need additional assistance may contact the Red Cross at 440-324-2929.

As always, if an emergency exists, please call 911 for Police, Fire, and EMS or you may call the non emergency number for the Lorain Police Department at 440-204-2100.

GIANT TREE CRASHES DOWN ON CAR

Lorain – Firefighters from Lorain and Sheffield Township worked together for more than an hour to rescue a Lorain woman, Alicia Rivera, after a nearly 100-foot tree fell on her car.

Debbie Carter, who works as a Manager at the Fashion Bug in Sheffield Township, said she received a call from her employees Sunday night telling her about the accident. “Alicia had left work shortly after 5:30pm and first dropped off a friend and then was heading for her home, not too far from here.”

Carter said that while Rivera was driving north on Pearl Ave she was on her cell phone talking to a fellow employee at the Fashion Bug. “My co-Manager was speaking to her on the phone and all of a sudden everything went quiet – then she could hear Alicia crying “Help me, someone help me.” She kept saying that and honking her horn. She was obviously not able to reach her cell at that point.”

The woman that was on the phone with Rivera picked up a different phone, keeping an open line with Rivera, and called 9-1-1 but without knowing where she was there was little the 9-1-1 Operator could do. Another employee jumped in her car and began driving the route from the store to Rivera’s house – she found Rivera’s car buried below a sea of tree branches on Pearl Ave in front of Sacred Heart Church near East 41st Street.

Firefighters and Paramedics had already arrived and were working to free Rivera. The task was daunting with the size of the tree and the position of Rivera inside of the car.

Firefighters used chain saws to remove limbs just to gain access to the car. While Firefighters were working to free Rivera Paramedics continuously monitored Rivera and was able to provide some treatment.

While cutting the limbs and pieces of the car, Officials had requested a large front-end loader to the scene thinking they may use it to remove the tree. Shortly after the front end loader arrived and got into position Firefighters were able to get to Rivera and free her from the vehicle. Bystanders, including Rivera’s Mother and fellow employees, could hear Firefighters say that she was out of the car – Cheers rang out from the crowd of nearly 100 people who had been watching.

Rivera was rushed to an awaiting ambulance then taken to Community Health Partners Emergency Room. Because of the high winds Metro LifeFlight was not flying, instead they sent a ground unit to transport Rivera to MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland. Her condition is unknown at this time.

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