On Feb. 12, 2010 the Highland County Sheriff's Office initiated an investigation into an incident that occurred in Liberty Township involving a Hillsboro City Schools Transportation Bus.

With “regrets,” the Southern State Community College Board of Trustees accepted the resignation of trustee Don Gephart at Wednesday night’s board meeting held at the central campus. Gephart, who was appointed by Ohio Governor Ted Strickland, served from July 2008 until his resignation, submitted to the college earlier this month. Gephart cited re-occurring health issues for his resignation.

Highland County Commissioner Tom Horst was the guest speaker Thursday afternoon at the monthly meeting of the Highland County Board of Realtors. Horst gave a presentation on county government, budgets, levies, and other governmental issues. Horst explained the various county government offices, their responsibilities, and their funding.

Contractors for the Ohio Department of Transportation will undertake a bridge replacement project on County Road 24 (Tri-County Highway) in Mt. Orab, requiring partial closure of the route early next month.

Vickie Kirk and Sheila Brockman were the Carroll Shelbys of this year’s Heartland Chili Challenge Wednesday afternoon at Heartland of Hillsboro. Kirk’s chili recipe won the “Hot” category, and Brockman’s recipe was the favorite of the judges in the “Mild” division. Darlene Roades and Meshell Strong earned second-place honors. Heartland of Hillsboro, Kroger, NCB, Hillsboro Ponderosa Steak House,
Wilkin-Wilkin Insurance, Buckeye Country 105.5 FM, and The Highland County Press sponsored the sixth annual event, which is held in conjunction with a chili supper and dessert auction Thursday, March 4 from 5-7 p.m. at the Old Ponderosa Banquet Center in Hillsboro.

Vickie Kirk and Sheila Brockman were the Carroll Shelbys of this year’s Heartland Chili Challenge Wednesday afternoon at Heartland of Hillsboro. Kirk’s chili recipe won the “Hot” category, and Brockman’s recipe was the favorite of the judges in the “Mild” division. Darlene Roades and Meshell Strong earned second-place honors. Heartland of Hillsboro, Kroger, NCB, Hillsboro Ponderosa Steak House,
Wilkin-Wilkin Insurance, Buckeye Country 105.5 FM, and The Highland County Press sponsored the sixth annual event, which is held in conjunction with a chili supper and dessert auction Thursday, March 4 from 5-7 p.m. at the Old Ponderosa Banquet Center in Hillsboro.

State Rep. David Daniels has been awarded Watchdog of the Treasury Award for the 127th General Assembly. The award recognizes key legislators every year who work tirelessly to restore responsible limited government, lower taxes, encourage free enterprise and regulatory relief, and promote personal freedom. This is the third time David Daniels has been honored with this award.

On Feb. 23 at 7:33 p.m., the Hillsboro Police Department was called to the 100 block of S. East Street on the complaint of an accident involving a pedestrian.

Ohio Department of Transportation crews have been dispatched in Adams, Brown and Highland Counties to patrol routes and treat as needed.

Southern State Community College Board of Trustees member Don Gephart has resigned, SSCC President Dr. Kevin Boys announced. Citing personal health reasons, Mr. Gephart recently submitted a letter of resignation to the college. "It is with heartfelt regret that I must resign my position as trustee for Southern State Community College," Mr. Gephart said.

On Feb. 22, 2010, Beulah Deaton of Moore Road in Hillsboro reported that a chain and charm had been taken by someone from her home.

The Hillsboro Rotary Club has announced its polio awareness campaign and in observance, Hillsboro Mayor Dick Zink has signed a proclamation for the event. The mayor proclaimed Feb. 23 as Rotary International Day and presented the proclamation to Rotary Club President Dale Zornes Tuesday.

Contractors for the Ohio Department of Transportation will undertake a project on County Road 79 (Selph Road) that will require its closure early next month.

The Mathews Team Real Estate is celebrating their fifth anniversary. Bob Mathews, Broker/Owner and Carolyn Mathews, Realtor/Manager are pleased to be part of the real estate community in southern Ohio. The Mathews Team Real Estate, a "Christ centered" business, is located in Bainbridge.

Zelma Furnish has announced that she is a candidate for re-election as the Democratic State Central Committee member for the 17th Senatorial District.