A Bellevue man who possessed methamphetamine while on probation avoided a prison sentence Thursday.
Justin J. Palumbo, 21, of 152 Sinclair St., earlier pleaded guilty to


Meth defendant will be 'tighter leash' on probation


NORWALK - The St. Paul Lady Flyers’ junior setter loves to share.
On Tuesday night, Rachel Bleile was in a sharing mood and it wasn't with the South Central Lady Trojans. The junior collected 38 assists in the Flyers 3-0 opening-night volleyball win over the Lady Trojans that saw the Flyers take games of 25-18, 25-19 and 25-17.
What was even more impressive was the amount of hitters Bleile shared the volleyball with. Four players recorded seven or more kills. A stat St. Paul head coach Nancy Miller believes can take the Flyers a long way if they continue that trend.
“The hitters did a great job at the net and controlling that part of the game, “Miller said. “That is a real solid number for her (Bleile), but if you look across the board at the kills, I had four solid hitters up there with nice numbers.”
Senior Halle Schoen led the Flyers with 12 kills followed by junior Meghan Hedrick with eight and senior Ashley Painley and junior Tess Lepley with seven.
Bleile also led the Flyers in serving with 12 points and 2 aces while Schoen chipped in with seven points and one ace. It was the Flyers season and home opener and Miller could tell there was some jitters to begin the contest.
“I feel like we had a large number of unforced errors that were uncommon for us,” Miller said. “I thought the girls handled the pressure well and made adjustments.”
The Flyers used small runs in each game to take the match. South Central led or tied St. Paul in every contest at the midway point. But the Flyers would find a way to score and Miller credits her front row.
“I think the kids are able to create things at the net for themselves,” Miller said. “The blockers are worried about each of the hitters and they are able to spread it out across the front and keep the defense off balance.”
Senior Kaeleigh Stang added 19 digs while Schoen finished a stat-stuffing night with 10.
The Trojans lost their Firelands Conference opener after defeating Sandusky St. Mary’s on Saturday making them 1-1. Even with the loss, head coach Sara Hohler saw a lot of positives from her squad.
“The girls played very aggressive,” Hohler said. “St. Paul is a very fast team. They were able to just pull away. I am very proud of the girls and they worked incredibly hard.”
Senior Lexie Adams, junior Maddie Albert and junior Sarah Oney each led the Trojans with six kills. Albert was a perfect 22 for 22 hitting. Senior Summer Sweeting collected 18 assists and was 16 for 16 serving with one ace.
Senior Olivia Keysor was 10 for 10 with an ace and Oney was 9 for 9 with two aces. Only and Sweeting collected 15 digs while Adams added 14.
“We just have to find the consistency piece to the team,” Hohler said. “I think we will find that as the season goes along and the girls continue to grow. They are very excited to play at a high level and hopefully as the season goes on, we can build that consistency.”
The Trojans are back in action on Aug. 30 in a home match against Monroeville. The Flyers return to the court 1-0 on the same night at Plymouth.
St. Paul took the JV match 25-22 and 25-10. Megan Hammersmithhad 8 kills, Kaity Tomshack added 10 points and 2 aces and Holly Powers collected 15 digs.
jakefurr@norwalkreflector.com419-571-9333
Twitter: @JakeFurr11

Bleile spreads the wealth in St. Paul win


NORWALK - The St. Paul Lady Flyers’ junior setter loves to share.
On Tuesday night, Rachel Bleile was in a sharing mood and it wasn't with the South Central


NL Little League hiring umpires
The New London Little League is looking for umpires for the upcoming season.


The New London Little League is looking for umpires for the upcoming season.
All positions are paid positions.
If interested please contact Jill


“I think our numbers speak very well,” said county dog warden Gary Ousley on Thursday.
Ousley was referencing the number of dogs adopted out and claimed, which was remarkably high this year. About 97 dogs were adopted from the warden this year, and a little more than 90 were claimed by their owners.
The warden also is looking to reduce the number of dogs euthanized, which was significantly down from previous years.
“That was our goal, to get it down to zero,” Ousley said.
This year, the number was not quite zero — reaching 10 by the end of August. Seven of those were at the request of the owner, and three were because the animals were injured or ill.
Sometimes, Ousley said, owners are hesitant to come and retrieve their dogs from the warden. People tend to be afraid of getting in trouble.
“They hesitate because they think they’re going to get fined or something for it,” Ousley said. “Usually if it’s just the first time, we just give them a citation.”
Owners claiming their wayward canines also are required to cover the kennel and retrieval costs — $23 plus an additional $8 a day for every day they’re held.
The best way for owners to check for a lost dog, Ousley said, is to call the office or check Facebook. The warden can be contacted at 419-668-9773. The Facebook page “Friends of the Huron County Dog Warden” often posts pictures of dogs which are in the kennel.
Although costs can vary from county to county, the basics are stated in the Ohio Revised Code.
Any person who owns or keeps a dog older than three months must file for registration. Any dog found not wearing a valid tag will be assumed unregistered by the county and could end up impounded, sold or euthanized.
If anyone has their dog seized by the warden and the dog isn’t deemed vicious or dangerous, it may be returned to its owner or sold to a new owner.
Before this, the owner or buyer must pay the warden the money it cost to capture, house and feed the dog as well as the registration fee if it isn’t already registered.
Whatever payment the warden receives is required by Ohio law to be deposited by the auditor into a fund used to cover the warden’s costs. This includes the cost of tags, records and equipment as well as paying employees.
Unregistered dogs also must be registered before they can be released by the warden. Ousley currently has a goal of selling 12,000 licenses this year. He said they’re about 1,000 licenses away from their goal.
Ousley also recalled late Reflector photographer, Jeff Van Natta on Thursday.
Van Natta would often take photos of the dogs in the kennel, as well as animals at the Humane Society to promote them for adoption in the paper.
“He loved the dogs,” Ousley recalled. “He would come out here and just play with them and sit down on the floor.
“As far as what he did, it’s just amazing.”

County warden encourages dog licensing, adoption


For a department with a difficult job, the Huron County Dog Warden’s office is having a very good year.
“I think our numbers speak very well,


“I was able to buy my first car (in October). I felt like I had done something for myself because I’ve always been depending on my parents,” said the 15-year-old girl who is a member of the Huron County Clovers. “I’ve worked so hard raising (beef) cows.”
Chapin, who will be a sophomore at Norwalk High School, sold a beef feeder for $525 to Riley Construction during Saturday morning’s Huron County Junior Fair large livestock sale.
“It was born in January. I worked with my animals starting in March and April,” she said.
Once school was out, Chapin started walking and washing the livestock and getting them prepared for the fair. She did that every day from 7 to 9 a.m.
The daughter of Abby and Randy Blake said it’s important to calm your animal and make sure it’s used to being around people and outside noises.
Phillip Bogner, 17, of Willard, sold a beef feeder for $1,300 to Underground Utilities. It was the grand champion in its category; there was no reserve champion.
“It’s going to (my) college fund probably,” said the son of Dennis and Lisa who will be a senior at Willard High School.
Bogner plans to attend the Wooster campus of ATI. While he hasn’t decided on what he’s studying, he plans to give back to the fair in some capacity when he gets older.
His beef feeder weighed 463 pounds.
“They can probably go up to 1,600 and 1,700 (pounds) if you want them that big,” said Bogner, who collectively has been in 4-H and FFA for 12 years.
Chapin smiled as G.A. Pickworth took bids Saturday for her beef feeder. She talked a little bit about standing in front of the crowd, saying at first she wondered how to stand or what to do with her hands, which is common for most first-timers.
“It’s a little scary. After doing it for so long, you’re used to it,” she said. “This is my seventh year raising cows.”
Chapin, who is a part of the Robert Chapin & Sons Farm, shared what’s important with raising livestock. She said the animals always need to have clean bedding and enough feed and water.
“Always have fans. Keep them cool,” Chapin said.
Many people come to the large livestock sale to catch up with friends.
All three of Greenwich Township resident Jean Kieffer’s children sold lambs and chickens for 10 years. Even though her kids are grown, she and her husband return to the sale each year. Kieffer said she enjoys seeing what the local students are doing.
“Of course I always enjoy listening to the auctioneer,” she added.
“We enjoy seeing friends we don’t normally see because of our busy lives. We’ll go up to them and see what’s going on with their lives,” Kieffer said.
Here are the prices of the remaining grand and reserve champions in each category and the people and businesses which bought them:
• Grand champion market lamb, $1,850 — Westaff, Locust Knoll Farm, Extol of Ohio
• Reserve champion market lamb, $1,500 — Ag Credit, Myers-Zimke Insurance Agency Inc., Danelion, Annette Wilcox Century 21 Premiere Properties, 2nd Auto Chance II, Myers Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, Lonz Law Firm, Glenn Brooks Construction LLC, Eric Brown Nationwide Financial
• Grand champion dairy steer, $2,500 — Smith Paving, Sutton Bank, Ken and Brenda Landoll
• Reserve champion dairy steer, $1,500 — Civista Bank, Westaff, Myers, Annette Wilcox Century 21, Northern Ohio Rural Water
• Grand champion market beef, $2,000 — Erie Blacktop
• Reserve champion market beef, $2,000 — Smiley Automotive, Coles Energy, Smith Paving
• Grand champion dairy cow, $900 — Popper Construction
• Reserve champion dairy cow, $800 — Stein’s Dairy, Dick Stein for state representative
• Grand champion barrow carcass, $1,100 — Ag Credit, John and Bev Brooks, Trent Nationwide Insurance, Lonz Law Firm
• Reserve champion barrow carcass, $600 — NORW, Westaff
• Grand champion market hog, $1,500 — Secor Funeral Home (Willard), Tom Trimmer
• Reserve champion market hog, $1,500 — NORW, Annette Wilcox Century 21, RKS Power Solutions, Norwalk Kiwanis, Myers, Anthony Chagaros Construction; Brown, Crane & Assoc. LTD, Microcharged, T. Douglas Clifford Law Office LTD
• Grand champion dairy feeder, $1,800 — Attica Raceway, Underground Utilities
• Reserve champion dairy feeder, $1,000 — Civista Bank, Annette Wilcox Century 21, Myers, Bungard Mack Insurance, Millers SuperValu, Precison Paving Inc., MCP Financial Services

Grand champion dairy steer goes for $2,500


Macy Chapin saved money from raising and selling beef cows for about four years to buy her first car.
“I was able to buy my first car (in October). I felt like I


The couple married on Aug. 19, 1961, at St. Mary’s parsonage in Sandusky, by the Rev. Joseph Inkrott.
They are the parents of Todd M. (DeeAna), of Bellevue; Jerry L. (Kathie), of Sandusky; and Brian T. (Alysia), of Clyde. They have four grandchildren and one step-grandson.
Mr. Runkle is the former owner of Gilbert Heating, of Sandusky, which is now owned by their three sons, and he still works part-time to help them out. Mrs. Runkle, the former Sandra Maier, is a homemaker.

Rankles celebrating 55th wedding anniversary


MONROEVILLE — Mr. and Mrs. Stanley (Tom) Runkle, of Monroeville, are celebrating their 55th wedding anniversary.
The couple married on Aug. 19, 1961, at St.


The animals and handler costume contest originally started more than 40 years ago, but only included cattle. Now, the just-for-fun event presents all species and handlers a nice way to unwind after a week full of hard work and shows.
Friday, like many of the years before it, saw some very original and very thoughtful costumes, like a violent goat duo, as well as a few favorites, such as fairy princess. This year, though, had a new category the showers could vie for.
In addition to the best of show and most original trophies, there was a new crowd favorite winner as well, where the audience was asked to applaud for their favorite costumes. The loudest cheer wins.
That honor went to none other than four year best dressed champion Dylan Hickman, 19, of the Blockbusters 4-H group, who came with his 24-year-old miniature horse, Nevada. The pair came convincingly dressed as Fred Flintstone and his pet dinosaur Dino, a costume Hickman said his mother made herself.
Hickman said for him, the Flintstones were an obvious choice for a costume.
“It’s from the Flintstones — they’re a classic,” he said.
This was a special year for Hickman, being his last in 4-H. He was glad he was able to finish out his winning streak strong.
“It feels nice (to win my last show),” he said. “It feels good to go out with a bang.”
Best of show went to Brailey Key, 9, daughter of Terra Howard, from the Classy Clovers and her goat, Buddy. Buddy wore a cardboard sign that read “Goat for sale. Good with kids.” while Brailey walked beside him as evidence with her arm in a sling, missing tooth and black eye and bandaged head as props.
“He’s already been jumping on me a lot, so it just came to me,” she said of how she and her mother came up with the idea. “It only took me a few minutes to get ready.”
When asked if she thought Buddy was still her friend after a week at fair together Brailey said “only about 50 percent.”
Kaitlynn Olak, 14, daughter of Kathy Olak, and her llama won the most original trophy for coming as a gardener and a sunflower.
“I just kind of thought of it. He was brown so I just kind of thought it’d be good if he was a sunflower,” Kaitlynn said. “It took probably about half an hour. We bought some of it and then some of it we already had at home.”
Olak said she was happy with her trophy, stating it was the category she was shooting for winning.
“It feels pretty good,” the Huron County Clover 4-H member said.

Flintstones, violent goat, tall sunflower visit fair as best dressed


The Best Dressed Competition is a highlight many look forward to for the end of the fair week.
The animals and handler costume contest originally started more


Council discussed the legislation recently, and officials said they had not received much backlash about it. However, recent comments from residents suggest that people simply weren’t aware of it.
“The reason they've not had any feedback or heard of any concerns was because we didn't know!” Nikki Hotchkiss told the Reflector.
As soon as Hotchkiss heard about the 50 percent reduction in income tax credit, she became concerned.
“Why should I get taxed double because I live in one city and work in another,” she asked. “I work in Avon so I pay Avon city tax. I live in Norwalk, pay property taxes, and do most of my shopping in Norwalk. You're still getting my tax dollars but want more? It just doesn't seem fair to me.”
Other residents commenting on the post expressed concern over being “double-taxed” simply because they work outside the city.
“My husband and I both work outside of Norwalk and both end up getting screwed by Norwalk at tax time,” said Becky Wiedle-Brutcher, whose husband pays Huron city taxes already.
Before the city council meeting earlier last week, the Reflector covered the work session at which the resolution was introduced.
“I have had numerous people contact me over the past week,” said council member Chris Mushett. “Most have voiced their opposition to it. They were all people who would be directly impacted.”
Although it comes as a surprise to residents, the proposed reduction in income tax credit is something that many Ohio cities have done in recent months.
Unlike an increase across the board, the tax credit can be cut by council without going to the local ballot.
This allows the resolution to be passed more easily, but it also means the income tax increase will target only people who work outside city limits.
Norwalk isn’t the only community to consider this option to increase funds. Other Ohio cities such as Lebanon are exploring similar measures. Some cities, such as Bowling Green and Rossford, have already slashed their income tax credit.
Section 181.06 of the Norwalk municipal code currently reads: “Subject to division (C) of this Section, the credit shall not exceed the amount of tax levied under this Chapter on such income, qualifying wages, commissions, net profits or other compensation taxable under this Chapter.”
If changed, it will state, “Subject to division (C) of this Section, the credit shall be in the amount of such tax paid to the other taxing jurisdiciton, but shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the amount of tax levied under this Chapter on such income ...”
The change would also add the text “‘Taxing jurisdiction’ does not include the United States of America or the State of Ohio.”

Norwalk residents not happy about prospect of paying more taxes


Some Norwalk residents are upset about a proposal that would reduce income tax credit for out-of-town workers by 50 percent.
Council discussed the legislation


New inmates at the Huron County Jail, Aug. 23, 2016
Here are pictures and information from the Huron County Jail regarding new inmates for Aug. 23, 2016:


Here are pictures and information from the Huron County Jail regarding new inmates for Aug. 23,


New inmates at the Huron County Jail, Aug. 23, 2016


He was born August 28, 1933 in Frog Bottom, Kentucky, to the late Nasby and Ethel (Newel) Hall. Mr. Hall was a railroad worker for the Nickle Plate Railroad Company for many years. He then went to the Rockwell International Company and made parts for NASA. He finished his working career at Durable Mat in Norwalk, Ohio. Mr. Hall was an avid walker and could be seen daily walking the sidewalks towards his favorite stops, Walmart, Drugmart, McDonalds, Wendy’s and IGA. He would brighten everyone’s day at the places with a kind word, smiling face, a laugh, and 2 thumbs up. He will be greatly missed by many.
Mr. Hall is survived by his son and daughter in law, Rick and Cheri Hall of Norwalk, Ohio, by his granddaughter, Nichole Hall, and by his grandson, Randal Hall. He is also survived by his brothers, Woodrow Hall of Vanceburg, Kentucky, Joe Hall and Fred Hall of Marysville, Kentucky, and by his sisters, Betty Haney of Grayson, Kentucky, and Deloris Hall of Vanceburg, Kentucky.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Rubert Hall.
Friends may call on Sunday, August 28, 2016 from 12:00 Noon to 3:00 p.m. in Walker Funeral Home, 98 West Main Street, Norwalk, Ohio. Private graveside services will be held in Hartland Ridge Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Lefty Grove Baseball League, P.O. Box 918, Norwalk, Ohio 44857. Online condolences may be made by going to www.edwalkerfuneralhome.com.


NORWALK — James O. Hall, 82, of Norwalk, Ohio, passed away Tuesday, August 23, 2016.
He was born August 28, 1933 in Frog Bottom, Kentucky, to the late Nasby and


Craig Sifford, Charles Sifford's son, pleaded guilty to a charge of aggravated theft last month. Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Judge Peter Corrigan sentenced him yesterday to three years in prison.
Craig Sifford, 49, and his ex-wife Sandra Sifford, 49, were both indicted in July 2015 following an investigation conducted as part of Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine's Elder Justice Initiative by agents with the Attorney General's Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) with assistance from Cuyahoga County Adult Protective Services.
Sandra Sifford, who previously pleaded guilty to charges of theft and receiving stolen property, was sentenced to 2.5 years in prison.
Both suspects were ordered to pay a total of $315,000 to Charles Sifford's estate.
The case was prosecuted by the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Timothy McGinty’s office.
"Exploiting the elderly is a crime, and these defendants blatantly misspent funds that should have be used toward Charles Sifford’s care," DeWine said. "This case shows that there are consequences for this type of behavior."
“Charlie Sifford trusted these family members while they helped themselves to their inheritance," said Assistant Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Paul Soucie, chief of the Economic Crime Unit. "That man, that American, that legendary golfer, deserved better than that.”
The investigation into the theft was launched prior to Charles Sifford's death after a complaint was made to law enforcement alleging that Craig Sifford was abusing his role as his father's power of attorney. After examining volumes of financial accounts, BCI agents found that the pair used the money, which should have solely been used toward Charles Sifford's care, on items such as travel, dining, clothing, jewelry, landscaping, and other expenses between 2010 and 2013.
The Cuyahoga County Sheriff's Office and Internal Revenue Service also assisted with the investigation.
DeWine launched the Elder Justice Initiative in 2014 to increase the investigation and prosecution of elder abuse cases and improve victims' access to services in Ohio. Anyone who suspects incidents of elder abuse or financial exploitation should contact their local authorities or the Attorney General's Elder Justice Initiative at 1-800-282-0515.

Pair sentenced to prison for theft from legendary golfer


CLEVELAND — Two Brecksville residents have been sentenced to serve time in prison after being convicted of stealing money from legendary late professional golfer Charles Sifford Sr.


Rod was born in Illinois on April 12, 1955 to Gerald and Carol (DeHeart) Richardson.
He was a 1973 graduate of Clyde High School. In 1977 he graduated from Heidelberg University in Tiffin. Mr. Richardson was a licensed social worker.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 26, 2016 at the Auxter Funeral Home, 1105 Castalia St., Bellevue, Ohio. Memorials may be made to the Bellevue Library.
Online condolences may be shared at www.auxterfuneralhomes.com


BELLEVUE — Rodger “Rod” Richardson, 61. of Bellevue, died at his home on Tuesday, August 23, 2016.
Rod was born in Illinois on April


The Career Ready Internship Program, funded through a grant from Great Lakes Higher Education Guaranty Corporation and available to eligible students through the spring 2018 semester, allows Ashland University students to engage in paid internships while exploring possible career paths.
At Bookmasters, one of the United States’ largest providers of publisher services including book manufacturing, warehousing, sales and distribution, and eBook conversion, Cardwell was part of the metadata team while Stima worked with the sales and marketing team. Placed in different, but equally important departments, the students have undertaken several tasks at the complex and gained a plethora of experience in their respective offices.
Cardwell, a senior from Norwalk, majoring in English and history, was supervised by Bookmasters’ metadata and eBooks manager, Claire Holloway.
“My time at Bookmasters was incredibly rewarding,” Cardwell said. “I was only there for three months, but I learned a great deal of invaluable information about the publishing industry firsthand, especially concerning the importance of metadata, an aspect of publishing that is often overlooked. The people at Bookmasters were welcoming and supportive, and I was able to explore a new career path open to English majors that I had not yet considered. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”
“We have thoroughly enjoyed having Emily on the team this summer,” Holloway said. “She has worked hard and, I hope, has seen that the hidden side of publishing is actually quite interesting. I found my first publishing position through an internship and know that getting your foot in the door and learning the vernacular creates possibilities in the future. I've perhaps given Emily too many ‘life lessons’ about publishing, but if I can help her get in and move up in her future career, then it is time well spent. I know she will go far and I hope she remembers her time at Bookmasters fondly.”
Kristen Steele, Bookmasters’ director of marketing and publisher relations, supervised Stima, a junior from Crestline, Ohio, majoring in creative writing and religion with a minor in ethics.
“This past summer at Bookmasters has been immensely fulfilling,” Stima said. “While I was also only present for three months, my life was opened up to the world of publishing and advertisement on a level that I had never experienced before. From the day-to-day lessons in the office, to the expansion of options in my vocational fields to various advertisement routes and to creative marketing practices, this has been a vital time in my life. Not to mention the extreme kindness I’ve received from everyone at Bookmasters during the whole process. I truly loved being there and couldn’t have been more satisfied.”
“From his first day, Garrison jumped right into every task given to him, which not only says something about him as an individual but also much about Ashland University and their ability to prepare students for their future careers,” Steele said. “Garrison’s skill set and work ethic were a perfect fit for Bookmasters’ sales team and even though he only spent a few short months with us, we’re thankful for his contributions and will miss his smile and sense of humor in our office!”
Altogether, from the students who were able to foster new skills and knowledge to Bookmasters who covered a widespread expanse with them, the experience was rewarding for all parties involved. Finally, with the summer of 2016 drawing to a close, Bookmasters is extending a hand toward the future in the hopes of further partnerships with Ashland University.

Ashland University student from Norwalk completes career ready internship at Bookmasters


ASHLAND – Ashland University students Emily Cardwell and Garrison Stima completed summer internships with fellow-Ashland organization and book publisher services company


She was born September 8, 1967 in Fremont and had been employed as a waitress at Diana’s Deli in Sandusky and at the former Vanson’s Restaurant in Monroeville. She enjoyed baking, her kids, grandkids and spending time with the whole family.
She is survived by her husband, Jeffery “Smitty” Smith of Monroeville; two daughters, Jamie I. Smith of Monroeville and Stacie R. (Andreas Gonos) Smith of Bellevue; three grandchildren, Riley, Jayden and Petros and Christine is on the way; five siblings, Richard J. (Linda) Brant, Jr. of Perrysburgh, Pamela A. (Steven) Walker of Fremont, Shelly M. (Gilbert) Yeckley, Rick L. (Carol) Brant and Christine’s twin brother Mark A. (Dawn) Brant all of Bellevue; numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard J. and Mary C. (Siebert) Brant, Sr. and one sister Barbara A. Millis.\
Friends may call Tuesday, August 30, 2016 from 3-7:00 PM at the Pfeil Funeral Home, Monroeville Chapel, 109 Monroe Street, Monroeville. At the request of the deceased cremation will follow.
Memorial contributions may be made in care of the family or the Stein Hospice Service, 1200 Sycamore Line, Sandusky, Ohio 44870.
Condolences may be shared with the family at pfeilfuneralhome.com.


MONROEVILLE — Christine L. Smith, 48, of Monroeville passed away Saturday morning, August 27, 2016 at her residence following a two year illness.
She


The Norwalk event will benefit Matt Stieber, a local man who recently received a double lung transplant this summer after his own lungs deteriorated due to cystic fibrosis (CF).
Tickets for the diner are $5 for adults and $3 for children. Businesses and companies are welcome to donate raffle prizes, and people can purchase raffle tickets. There also will be a 50-50 drawing during the dinner.
CF is a lifelong disease with no cure. Although recent advances in medical technology have lengthened the lives of people with the condition, medical treatments are still costly. As Stieber’s aunt, Mary Krishner, writes, “Matt has spent more time at the hospital than at home throughout his life. As a child, he had to have breathing treatments several times a day.”
Until he received the transplants, Stieber had to continue breathing treatments.
Although his lungs are new and relatively healthy, Stieber still will have to receive 24-hour care for several months. During this time, he won’t be able to interact with many people due to risk of infection. He also will need to continue treatment for CF, as the rest of his organs will still be affected by the disease.
Anyone who wishes to help also and his family are welcome to attend the benefit or donate through the Norwalk Federal Credit Union, 175 Cleveland Road. Donations through the credit union may be made to the “Matthew Stieber lung transplant benefit.”
Surgery costs for the transplant have been covered, but after care and other medical expenses are not. Anti-rejection medication, physical therapy, blood tests, pulmonary rehab, follow-up visits and more will be required.
Questions or calls can be directed to Mary Krishner at 567-201-3185 or 567-201-3185.

Cystic fibrosis benefit to be held for Matt Stieber


A spaghetti dinner and raffle benefit will be held at the VFW from 3 to 7 p.m. Aug. 28 at 140 Milan Ave.
The Norwalk event will benefit Matt Stieber, a local man who


Chad Maynard, 35, admitted to a three-count probation violation Monday in Huron County Common Pleas Court. On Monday, he was ordered to complete a four- to six month program at a community-based corrections facility, a form of prison which focuses on treatment and education. Maynard will remain in the Huron County Jail until he is transferred to a CBCF.
“Unfortunately, he has relapsed, which is part of the reason we are here today,” probation officer Andrea Cooke told Judge Jim Conway.
Since July 12, Maynard failed to consistently attend NOBARS counseling sessions. Also on July 12, he submitted a urine sample that tested positive for drugs. Maynard further violated his probation by admitting to Huron County health department staff members he had used heroin.
His underlying conviction is two counts of theft of drugs.
In May 2013, Maynard, who once completed a CBCF, was released from prison. Huron County Prosecutor Daivia Kasper has said by the following February after Maynard was out of prison, he was stealing medication from his elderly grandfather and appeared to be addicted to heroin.
On March 6, 2014, Maynard went to a Norwalk pharmacy as a representative of his grandfather to pick up his prescription for pain-relieving drugs. The prescription included 80 pills, which never were delivered to the grandfather. Prosecutors have said Maynard stole the pain killers instead and about a week later on — March 11, 2014 — he did the same thing, only this time netting 40 pills.
The local pharmacy became suspicious when a concerned family member called. The Norwalk Police Department then launched an investigation.
Maynard later successfully completed Teen Challenge, an intensive, Christian-based program for people all ages with life-controlling addictions. It lasts 12 to 14 months.

Drug thief sent to CBCF for violating probation


A Berlin Heights drug defendant is heading to an in-house treatment facility after a relapse.
Chad Maynard, 35, admitted to a three-count probation violation Monday in


James Hall
NORWALK — James Hall, 82, of Norwalk, died Wednesday in Twilight Gardens Home. Funeral arrangements will be announced by Walker Funeral Home.


NORWALK — James Hall, 82, of Norwalk, died Wednesday in Twilight Gardens Home. Funeral arrangements will be announced by Walker Funeral Home.


They offered children who were too young for 4-H the opportunity to show a friend or family member’s sheep with Friday’s PeeWee Sheep Showmanship, learning to walk and present them to a judge and giving them a chance to feel important like the big kids.
“We try to get them out here in the ring with older brothers and sisters or family as soon as possible,” said show judge Matt Martin..
“We can tell there are differences in these kids in terms of confidence levels. Some of these kids have obviously done this before. For some of them this is their first time. We want them to have that confidence. They’re all done a good job keeping the lambs under control. It’s really a great group of kids.”
The goal is to feed off of the children’s interest and show them the excitement and family atmosphere of showing an animal at a young age so they aren’t as nervous when they grow up.
“They start to love this fun, happy family we have out here,” Martin said. “The conversations you start to have with these kids when you’re out here talking to them, just small talk, it’s amazing. These are great kids.”
One child Martin was particularly impressed with was Tate Stevens, 4, of Norwalk. He had Stevens tell the audience the name of his goat — Jake From State Farm.
His mother Nicole Stevens, who serves as fair sheep superintendent, said she’s not sure where the name came from.
“We were walking out to the barn and I looked over and asked him ‘So do you know what you’re going to name him yet?’ And he said ‘Yes. Jake From State Farm,’” she said with a laugh.”
She thinks the show is a good thing for the young kids to experience.
“ Just to be able to come out here for a show,” she said. “That’s what they want to do. They wanted to do it (when the older kids showed their sheep).”
Tate said his favorite part of the whole fair was “being with Jake” in the show ring.


The Huron County Fair made sure no one, no matter how young, was left out.
They offered children who were too young for 4-H the opportunity to show a friend or family


This will allow Huron County taxpayers the ability to electronically pay property and mobile home taxes online or in person with credit or debit card. Lexis Nexis will replace Official Payments as the treasurer’s credit card processor effective of Sept. 6.
To make payments online, visit the Huron County auditor’s website: www.huroncountyauditor.org and click on the “Pay Property and Manufactured Home Taxes Here” link. Taxpayers will be redirected to the LexisNexis landing page and will follow instructions to make their payments. To make a payment in person, please come to the main office at 16 E. Main St., Norwalk.
The drive-thru will maintain a “payment with checks only” policy.

New debit/credit card payment option for taxes


Kathleen Schaffer, Huron County Treasurer announced Monday she has signed a contract with LexisNexis Payment Solutions for real estate and mobile home tax electronic payment processing


Look out for counterfeit $100 bills
The Norwalk Police Department received a report from another law enforcement agency of several businesses receiving counterfeit $100 bills. These are reportedly the older style $100 bill, and appear to have been bleached, so a Counterfeit Detector Pen may not work on these bogus bills. At this time, suspect information is not available. We will update with that information as soon as it is received.


The Norwalk Police Department received a report from another law enforcement agency of several businesses receiving counterfeit $100 bills. These are reportedly the older style $100 bill,


...A LINE OF STRONG THUNDERSTORMS WILL AFFECT NORTHERN RICHLAND...HURON...ERIE...NORTHWESTERN LORAIN...NORTHEASTERN CRAWFORD AND NORTHWESTERN ASHLAND COUNTIES...
AT 546 PM EDT...A LINE OF STRONG THUNDERSTORMS WAS ALONG A LINE EXTENDING FROM NEAR NORWALK TO NEW WASHINGTON...AND MOVING EAST AT 20 MPH.
WINDS IN EXCESS OF 40 MPH AND HALF INCH HAIL ARE POSSIBLE WITH THESE STORMS.
LOCATIONS IMPACTED INCLUDE... LORAIN...NORWALK...WESTERN VERMILION...VERMILION...AMHERST... SHELBY...WILLARD...NEW LONDON...PLYMOUTH...MILAN...NORTHERN MILAN...WAKEMAN...NEW WASHINGTON...OBERLIN...SOUTH AMHERST...GREENWICH...
MONROEVILLE...BERLIN HEIGHTS...SHILOH AND NORTH FAIRFIELD.
TORRENTIAL RAINFALL IS ALSO OCCURRING WITH THESE STORMS...AND MAY CAUSE LOCALIZED FLOODING. DO NOT DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE THROUGH FLOODED ROADWAYS.
FREQUENT CLOUD TO GROUND LIGHTNING IS OCCURRING WITH THIS STORM.
LIGHTNING CAN STRIKE 15 MILES AWAY FROM A THUNDERSTORM. SEEK A SAFE SHELTER INSIDE A BUILDING OR VEHICLE.

Hazardous weather outlook for Huron County


At 5:46 p.m. Saturday, he National Weather Service in Cleveland issued the following special weather statement for Huron County and the surrounding areas:
...A LINE OF


The senior rushed for 105 yards and three scores and passed for 76 yards and two more touchdowns Friday, leading Edison to a 50-17 season-opening victory over Firelands.
“We always felt he could be a pretty good quarterback and tonight, as the game progressed, he got more and more comfortable reading the option and did what he had to do,” said Chargers coach Jim Hall. “But he'd be the first to tell you, it's the guys around him. He knows if the guys up front and backs aren't blocking, this doesn't happen.”
Edison scored the final 25 points of the game with Ehrhardt getting the blitz started with TD runs of 28 and 24 yards. He added a 12-yard scoring pass to Sam Stoll, with John-Mason Neer going over from the 3 with just under two minutes to play followed a muffed punt.
Stoll finished with 145 yards and touchdown runs of 20 and 40 yards while Ehrhardt was 6 of 13 passing with a 26-yard TD strike to Bryce Ostheimer to his credit.
“When we execute, we feel like we have athletes who can make plays,” Hall said. “If we can get our option game going, we like our chances, but it's a very disciplined game to run. Everything has to be perfect up front and everybody has to be on the same page. If you're not, it gets ugly.”
Things were got ugly quickly for the Falcons.
Ostheimer collected the first of three Edison interceptions on the second play from scrimmage and got his touchdown grab six plays later. The senior ended the game with five receptions for 66 yards.
Max Soviak set up the 20-yard Stoll scoring run with an interception and Jared Tomson scooped up a fumble that led to a 9-yard Ehrhardt touchdown run.
Stoll got his second touchdown with 46 seconds remaining in the half, sandwiched between a 60-yard Nick Denney touchdown run and a 36-yard Ethan Hayes field goal.
Denney pulled Firelands to within one score of the head with a 55-yard scoring scamper with 9:35 left in the third quarter, but Ehrhardt got the Edison final scoring push started five minutes later.
“We kind of went away from some of the things that we had success with, trying some other things,” Hall said. “We just kind of challenged our kids. We told them we can run this offense against anybody if we execute, and we started playing hard and playing lower and did a much better job of running our offense from the middle of the third quarter on.”
The Chargers piled up 433 yards total offense on the opening night of the season, while the Falcons finished with 294, but Denney accounted for 198 yards on 13 carries.
“He's a good back,” Hall said of Denney. “On a few occasions, we had everything bottled up and he still was able to bounce it out to the backside. And I think that's a good football team.
“Up front, they were physical and ran some really nice schemes that we obviously weren't prepared for. We've got a lot of work in front of us, but we can shore those things up.”

Chargers roll to another big win in season opener


HENRIETTA TWP. — Bryce Ehrhardt made the most of his first start under center.
The senior rushed for 105 yards and three scores and passed for 76 yards


That was Jeff Van Natta. He touched so many hearts and lives. For about 10 years he captured those people and moments through a camera lens with the Reflector, something for which he was known.
Van Natta died Saturday evening in UH Amherst Health Center in Amherst after battling several health issues over the years. He was 67.
Norwalk City Councilman Chris Castle knew him for several years, both on a work and personal level. Castle said Van Natta not only touched his life, but worked his way into his whole family’s heart, even influencing their meal-time discussions regularly.
“I’ve been thinking about this guy a lot the past couple days,” Castle said.
“My children love Jeff Van Natta — loved that man. We play a lot of dinner-table games over meals. One of those games is a fake game show game we called ‘That’s So Random with Jeff Van Natta.’ They take photos of things, animals, a guinea pig, a dog, etc. — random shots like Jeff (did). Then they pull out their phones and show the pictures and we have to guess what they are and where they were.
“When I told my kids that Jeff has died, we immediately turned it into ‘That’s So Random with Jeff Van Natta,’ as a dedication to the great man,” he said.
“That’s how much of a reach he had though. He touched the hearts of everyone — so many lives. If he touched one person, chances are it carried over to the whole family. The first thing my 10-year-old said was, ‘Wasn’t it funny how he swung the camera around and showed you the photo he just took,’” Castle said. “He was always so happy and smiling and so proud of his pictures.’”
Co-worker Cary Ashby knew Van Natta as the hard worker he was.
“Jeff was a real go-getter,” Ashby said. “He was so dedicated to getting photos, he was willing to jump up from the middle of eating and run to cover a breaking-news assignment.
“He was a very generous guy. One day last July I came back to work from lunch and found a fairly expensive, boxed Batman action figure sitting on my desk. There was no note. Since Jeff knew I’m a diehard Batman fan, I eventually figured out he gave it me. He bought it ‘just because’ — just because he saw it and thought of me,” Ashby said. “That Batman remains in my bedroom in plain sight every day.”
Scott Ford, a retired teacher who helps run the Lefty Grove baseball league, remembers the same generosity and kindness.
“He was a very positive, very upbeat fellow and he didn’t hesitate to help with anything,” Ford said.
“He provided hundreds, maybe thousands, of memories for kids at Lefty Grove baseball. He got the memorable, live-action shots, catching the ball mid air. I don’t know how he did it. If you called him and asked him to grab the photos and he’d be there,” Ford said.
“He was always a nice guy too. Just a pleasant person to be around and to talk to. He was always willing to talk with you.”
It was no secret Van Natta held some of his photography assignments in an extra-high regard, such as Pleasant Elementary.
“We loved him; I’m not just saying that,” Principal Janice Smith said. “We had a special relationship. And he loved us. I don’t think he told everyone, but we were his favorite.
“He was the most kind and caring person and always smiling. He was always so positive despite his health. He’ll always have a special place in our hearts. He was great with the kids,” she added.
There will be a wake from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Latter Day Saints Church in Sandusky. There will be calling hours from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday at Walker Funeral Home in Norwalk.


Some people just touch your heart from the moment you meet them.
That was Jeff Van Natta. He touched so many hearts and lives. For about 10 years he captured those people


Martin, 17, of Attica, won the competition held Saturday in the Doug Wilson Building. The Seneca East High School junior is the son of Matt and Steph. His father was the Showman of Showmen in the early 1990s.
“Very, very thrilling,” said the younger Martin, who is the president of the Norwich Fun Bunch 4-H Club and a three-year member of the Seneca East FFA.
Elizabeth Philipps, of New London, earned second place. She is the daughter of Martin and Bonnie and is a member of the New London County Line Kids 4-H Club and the band. Philipps, who has been in 4-H for nine years, represented poultry Saturday.
In third was Annie Cummings, of Willard. She is the daughter of Stacy Chad and represented rabbits. Cummings, who showed her first sheep at age 6, is a Willard High School senior.
Martin, who represented sheep, said the rabbit was the most challenging animal to show Saturday because he wanted to make sure he knew how to hold it and keep it calm.
“I messed up a little bit on a couple of the questions,” he said, adding the keys to handling tough questions are the process of elimination and using common sense. “I think that was the toughest part.”
To prepare, Martin said he tried to find “the most knowledgable people he knew in each breed.” The contestants showed and were tested on the following animals: Pigs, rabbits, chickens, turkeys, beef, sheep, dairy and goats.
Besides sheep, Martin’s next favorite animal to show is pigs — a breed he showed for many years before changing his focus.
“I was pretty confident in my abilities,” said the seemingly modest Martin, who learned a lot from his father and family through the years. “I’ve been around livestock my whole life.”
Despite all that experience, he said he wasn’t expecting to have his name called as the Showman of Showmen.
“I was hoping my name would be called,” added the teenager, who is involved in student council, football, wrestling, track and baseball at Seneca East.
Martin’s smiling father said he is “very proud” of his son’s most recent accomplishment.
“It means a lot because showmanship is always something we’ve prided ourselves on,” he said, noting that showmanship reveals one’s knowledge and ability with various animals.
“Fundamentals are always the same,” said the older Martin, who revealed the biggest tip for Showman of Showmen he gave his son.
“Keep your focus and give God the glory because that’s where we get our talents,” he said.

New Showman of Showmen: 'Very, very thrilling'


The reigning Showman of Showmen, Brock Martin, has a great role model for earning the prestigious Huron County Fair title: His father.
Martin, 17, of Attica, won the


He was born Sept. 25, 1954 to C. Dale and Mayotta "Pat" (Young) Highlander.
Dennis graduated from Margaretta High School in 1972 and later graduated from Appalachian Bible College in Fayetteville, W.Va. He was a foundry worker at Thacker Aluminum.
Survivors include his children: Rachel (Greg) Gasser of Castalia; Gabrielle (Dean) Laubacher of Findlay; Ruth (Dusten) Watson of Bellevue; and Peter (Lindsey) Highlander of Wooster; grandchildren: Jenna, Seth, Anna, Blake, Payton, Mason, Aubriella, Peter, Claire, Henry, Samuel, Ann; siblings: Charles Highlander of Castalia; Pamela (Criss) Sparks of Norwalk; and Cindy (Steve) Wittenberg of Jackson, Wis.
Dennis was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Vicky Morris; and his sister-in-law, Emma Highlander.
Friends may call from 4 to 4 p.m. Wednesday at Auxter Funeral Home, 1105 Castalia St., Bellevue. His funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Wayside Temple, Maple Ave., Castalia. Burial will follow in Sand Hill Cemetery.
Online condolences may be shared at www.auxterfuneralhomes.com.


BELLEVUE — Dennis L. Highlander, 61, of Bellevue, died Sunday at his home.
He was born Sept. 25, 1954 to C. Dale and Mayotta "Pat" (Young)


Michael C. Williams, 35, of Sebring, Fla., was charged with failure to comply with the order or signal of a police officer. The charge is in connection with a July 20 pursuit involving the Norwalk Police Department.
“The Norwalk police tried to pull over a vehicle that had an expired plate,” Huron County Prosecutor Daivia Kasper said.
The chase started in the northern end of Norwalk. Kasper said the pursuit went through several business parking lots, causing many drivers to pull over so they could avoid collisions.
Williams drove on Norwood Avenue, which becomes Ridge Road outside of the city limits. Kasper said the defendant crashed into a corn field south of Hasbrock Road.
“He said he had warrants out of Florida,” the prosecutor added.
The other defendants and their charges are:
• Brian S. Armstrong, 26, of 14 1/2 W. League St., on two counts of trafficking in oxycodone in connection with July 21 and 22 controlled drug buys.
• Brian D. Cowley Jr., 27, of 56 Jefferson St., Lot 16, on trafficking in heroin in connection with a June 13 controlled drug buy.
• Charles E. Dixon, 24, of 1920 Murray Road, New London, on burglary in connection with a June 21 incident.
• Thomas E. Grubbs, 31, of Coldwater, Mich., on trafficking in marijuana and possession of criminal tools, both in connection with a July 7 controlled drug buy.
• Randy S. Hamilton, 48, of 5498 Griffin Road, New London, on intimidation of a witness in connection with an Oct. 5 incident.
• Jason M. Hamm, 36, of 321 South Norwalk Road, on one count of disrupting public service and two charges of domestic violence, all in connection with a July 22 incident.
• Kurt C. Landis, 28, of Northwood, on possession of methamphetamine in connection with a June 2 incident.
• Jack J. Leimeister, 24, of 25 Welton Ave., on tampering with evidence in connection with an Aug. 8 incident.
• Douglas A. McCourt, 51, of Wellington, on driving under the influence of alcohol or a drug of abuse in connection with a June 22 traffic stop. According to the indictment, he was charged with a specification that alleges that “within 20 years of committing this offense, (McCourt) previously has been convicted or pleaded guilty to five or more equivalent offenses.”
• Lucia E. Perry, 32, of Mansfield, on possession of heroin in connection with a July 17 incident.
• Sharnell Mary-Lynn Schmidt, 24, of Coldwater, Mich., on trafficking in marijuana in connection with a July 7 controlled drug buy.
• Donovan Sparkman, 20, of 101 1/2 Maple St., Willard, on receiving stolen property in connection with a June 15 credit card-related incident.
• David M. Thomas, 24, of 60 S. Linwood Ave., on possession of buprenorphine in connection with a July 22 incident.
In other action Friday, grand jurors transferred the following first-degree misdemeanor case to Norwalk Municipal Court for further, possible prosecution:
• Norman J. Morse, 24, of 100 S. Main St., Lot 19, North Fairfield, on criminal damaging and aggravated menacing, both in connection with a July 4 incident.


A driver who fled from police and then wrecked his vehicle was among 15 suspects who were indicted Friday.
Michael C. Williams, 35, of Sebring, Fla., was charged with


Please share your first-day-of-school pictures by emailing them to news@norwalkreflector.com. We’ll post many submissions in a gallery on this website. We’ll also publish some of them in the newspaper. Feel free to include your child’s name, age and school for the caption in the paper.
We look forward to seeing and sharing your pictures!

Send us your first-day-of-school pictures


Students in Norwalk’s public and parochial schools return to classes Monday following summer break.
Please share your first-day-of-school pictures by emailing


A young Arundel dancer is relishing the chance to work with the prestigious National Youth Ballet.
15-year-old Cleo Badcock will be taking part in a memorial gala performance on Sunday, September 4, at Sadler’s Wells Theatre, Rosebery Avenue, London at 7.30pm (020 7863 8000). The memorial celebrates the work and legacy of company founder and artistic director Jill Tookey who died in March this year.
Over three decades, Jill Tookey quietly became one of the industry’s most influential dance leaders, inspiring generations of young dancers and choreographers, many of whom have embarked upon successful professional careers after their time with NYB. Jill was appointed a CBE for services to dance in the 2016 New Year Honours.
Cleo is delighted to continue Jill’s work.
“I know a few people who have done it before, and they suggested I do it,” Cleo said. “I auditioned in January and then I got a letter saying I had got through to the final auditions in April. I did a few pieces from the choreographers for that – and I got through. I got a big information pack through detailing what dances I am in and what I am going to have to do.”
And then it was into ten days of rehearsals: “We have been doing it all day every day, but it has been brilliant. I love the dances I am in, and it is great fun. I am in Ruth Armstrong’s Swing Time and also in The Tribute. Swing Time is swing-style 1930s New York, and there are about 20 dancers in the piece. It is interesting because it is all different sections, and the music is so diverse you get to do different styles. At the moment, we are rehearsing The Tribute separately, and I am guessing we are going to put it all together later.”
It’s all fantastic experience for Cleo: “I am one of those people that started dancing when they were two or three, and then when I was 11 or 12 I started taking more and more classes. I dance six days a week now. The difficulty is fitting in the homework!
“But I can express myself when I am dancing in ways that I can’t when I am just walking or talking. I can use different parts of my body. I don’t know how to put it into words really, but it is like I am in a different world when I am dancing, when the lights are on and you can’t really see the audience.
“I suppose it depends on the setting or the piece, but I don’t really get nervous. I am not a wreck. But it is always good to have a few nerves. I guess it focuses you more. It turns you on more to what you are doing.”
Cleo is hoping to audition for vocational schools – and she would love to think her future lies in dancing.
She knows a lot of hard work lies ahead and that she will need to be tough and determined: “You have to accept that you might not get the dance or the company that you want, and you have to cope with that.”


Get the latest breaking news from the West Sussex County Times - politics, transport, education, health, environment and more, updated daily.


Albion midfielder Beram Kayal looked ahead to tomorrow’s Championship trip to Newcastle United and said: “It’s one of our biggest games this season.”
Brighton travel to St James’ Park in a league fixture for the first time since 1992 looking to extend their unbeaten start to the season.
Chris Hughton’s side sit second in the table having collected two wins and two draws from their four Championship games so far this season.
However, Saturday’s tea-time clash with relegated Newcastle provides them with their biggest test to date.
Toon boss Rafa Benitez remained at Newcastle this summer and has added several quality additions.
Kayal is expecting a tough test and said: “I think it’s going to be one of our biggest games. We need to be ready, focused and know our strengths.
“We go into it with a lot of confidence, we respect Newcastle and know they have big players and a big manager with a lot of experience but we are going to do a job.”
Having played in Champions League matches and Old Firm derbies for Celtic, Kayal has experienced some great atmospheres.
Saturday will be his first outing at St James’ Park and he said: “It’s going to be massive. I have heard a lot about this stadium. It’s a massive club, massive fans, so it’s going to be a great atmosphere, great experience for all of us and hopefully we will go to them and get the result we want.
“It’s not going to be easy but professional players love the challenge against these teams. We have done everything this week in preparation to be ready.”
Liam Rosenior will be missing for the game following an ankle injury picked up at Reading, while Hughton is yet to make a decision on Dale Stephens’ place in the matchday squad.
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Kayal excited ahead of ‘massive’ away trip


Visit now for the latest Brighton & Hove Albion news - direct from the West Sussex County Times


Worthing WOW (World of Words) Festival announces Kenneth Branagh’s Much Ado About Nothing as part of BFI Presents: Shakespeare on Film.
The season is a UK-wide series of screenings and events celebrating the impact the playwright’s life, work and legacy has had on cinema.
Worthing WOW’s special screening takes place on Thursday, September 15 at the Dome Cinema in Worthing and forms part of national celebrations marking the bard’s 400th anniversary.
Melody Bridges, artistic director of WOW, said: “Kenneth Branagh’s exuberant 1993 adaptation of this classic feel-good comedy stars Mr Branagh himself alongside Emma Thompson, Kate Beckinsale and Hollywood hunks Denzel Washington and Keanu Reeves. WOW have received funding from BFI Film/London to host the event and include Worthing as part of this countrywide celebration. They chose Much Ado for its summery romantic feel – a perfect frolic to end your summer.
“Much Ado is being shown in screen two at the historic Dome Cinema, Worthing for one night only, and is being introduced by Miles Leeson, senior lecturer from the University of Chichester who will be giving a brief pre-screening talk about the potent mix of farce and politics in this, one of the Bards most important comedies.”
Presented by the BFI Film Audience Network (FAN) and led by Film Hub London, BFI Presents: Shakespeare on Film will see more than 300 screenings and events taking place across the UK with multiplexes, independent cinemas, film clubs, pop-ups and community venues the length and breadth of the UK.
Melody added: “I'm thrilled to share this uplifting film with Worthing audiences. Worthing WOW has been looking for a really special way to tie in with the celebrations of Shakespeare this year – and this evening is our way of Worthing being a part of these national events. I'm excited to learn beforehand from Dr Miles a bit more about the story and then enjoy a glass of Italian white wine whilst watching one of Shakespeare's finest plays on film. "
Adrian Wootton, chief executive of Film London and the British Film Commission, said: “Shakespeare might have been a man of the theatre but his work offers endless possibilities to film-makers. Somehow the power of his stories, characters, his all too human resonant and relevant themes of power, politics, family, romance, tragic conflict and joyous comedy, manages to transcend barriers of time and the English language such that specific cultural settings can be interpreted by filmmaking artists, in all different kinds of locations, contexts and languages.”
Much Ado About Nothing is screening for one night only on September 15, 7.30pm at the Dome Cinema; tickets are £5 adult, £4 concs, £3 students available in advance only from http://www.eventbrite.com/e/much-ado-about-nothing-tickets-26898961518.
Don't miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live.
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2) Like our Facebook page
3) Follow us on Twitter
4) Register with us by clicking on 'sign in' (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here.
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The swimmer believed to have been missing at a Sussex beach has been found, the coastguard has announced.
In a statement released by HM Coastguard, it said the reason for the major search at Camber Sands was that lifeguards were not on duty at the time it was reported. Click here to read more about the search.
The RNLI has provided five to six lifeguards who are working from 9am to 6pm this Bank Holiday weekend at the beach.
A spokesperson for the coastguard said: “There was major reason for concern as this is a dangerous beach and lifeguards were not on yet on duty at the time the swimmer was missed. It’s a great relief that this person has been found safe and well.”
It comes after five men lost their lives at the beach on Wednesday.
A statement from Sussex Police said: “Police were called at around 9.40am on Sunday (28 August) to report concern for the welfare of a woman who was seen entering the sea on Camber Sands Beach at around 8am.
“It was believed the woman, who was described as white with dark hair and wearing a black swimming costume, had left a pair of sandals on the beach which had still not been retrieved.
“Officers helped both the Coastguard and RNLI conduct a thorough search of the coastline, which included the Coastguard helicopter.
“A woman matching the description of the swimmer called the RNLI at around 11.45 am to identify herself.
“The search has been called off and police are no longer dealing.”
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COUNTY NEWS: Missing swimmer ‘found safe and well’


It’s the farcical comedy which leaves critics stony-faced. But now Mrs Brown’s Boys has been voted the best British sitcom of the 21st century, beating Ricky Gervais’s observational masterpiece, The Office.
Mrs Brown’s Boys, starring Brendan O’Carroll as the foul-mouthed Dublin widow, topped the Radio Times poll which asked readers to choose the funniest shows broadcast since 2000.
Described as “the worst comedy ever made” by one reviewer, the broad humour of O’Carroll’s creation, initially unveiled on a RTE Ireland radio series, has been labelled sexist and homophobic.
But the BBC1 show, which O’Carroll described as a reaction against the politically-correct “alternative comedy” revolution of the 80s, has become the most-watched programme on Christmas Day and even spawned a feature film.
The troupe of largely extended family members – O’Carroll’s wife Jennifer plays his fictional screen daughter – honed their characters through live stage performances, adding to the anarchic atmosphere of the television episodes, which often embrace mistakes.
O’Carroll said of the poll victory: “It vindicates the fans’ belief in the show. They have kept us on the air – it certainly wasn’t the reviewers.”
He added: “There is an audience out there that comedy forgot, that Are You Being Served? audience has been left behind. Us winning this award proves that.”
The show was rewarded with a Bafta in 2012 as critics began to accept its merits.
Radio Times readers voted from a shortlist of the 40 funniest shows broadcast since 2000, compiled by critics and experts from the British Film Institute.
When the 14,000 votes were counted, the unashamedly populist Mrs Brown’s Boys finished ahead of the understated charms of The Office, first broadcast in 2001 and widely regarded as the most influential comedy of the century.
Peter Kay has two entries in the top 20 with Car Share and his breakthrough Channel 4 sitcom Phoenix Nights
The poll suggested that the comedy audience has yet to fully embrace funny women. Miranda, the sitcom vehicle for the comedy actress Miranda Hart appears at number 8 ahead of Raised By Wolves, the loosely autobiographical Channel 4 family series written by Caitlin Moran and her sister Caroline.
But the poll is dominated by male performers and writers. Irish comedy writer Graham Linehan has three entries with Count Arthur Strong, The IT Crowd and Black Books all featuring.
Armando Iannucci’s The Thick of It, The Inbetweeners and Jack Whitehall’s Bad Education are other sitcoms in the list which have been expanded into feature films.
James Corden’s hit BBC romantic comedy Gavin & Stacey, co-written with Ruth Jones, remains highly regarded and makes the top ten. ITV has a one entry with Benidorm.
Best British sitcom of the 21st century
1 Mrs Brown’s Boys
2 The Office
3 Peter Kay’s Car Share
4 Count Arthur Strong
5 The IT Crowd
6 The Thick of It
7 Gavin & Stacey
8 Miranda
9 Raised by Wolves
10 Outnumbered
11 Peep Show
12 Black Books
13 Green Wing
14 The Inbetweeners
15 Bad Education
16 Peter Kay’s Phoenix Nights
17 Yonderland
18 Twenty Twelve/W1A
19 Benidorm
20 Detectorists

Mrs Brown’s Boys voted best British sitcom of the 21st century


The findings of an investigation into the death of a British soldier are expected to be released next month.
Lance Corporal James Brynin, 22, who was born in Shoreham and lived in Pulborough, was shot and killed by friendly fire in Afghanistan in 2013.
At an inquest held in March of this year, fellow British soldier Lance Corporal of Horse Mark Kelly said he had fired the fatal shot believing his target was a Taliban insurgent.
The inquest at Chichester was adjourned by West Sussex senior coroner Penelope Schofield under Rule 25(4) of the Coroners and Justice Act 2015, which states: “a coroner must adjourn an inquest...if during the course of the inquest, it appears to the coroner that the death of the deceased is likely to have been due to a homicide offence and that a person may be charged in relation to the offence.”
The case was referred to the Service Prosecuting Authority (SPA), which is expected to publish its findings at the end of September, a pre inquest review hearing in Chichester today was told.
Nicholas Moss, counsel for the Ministry of Defence who is representing LcoH Kelly, said via a conference call: “We have been informed that the SIB (Special Investigations Branch) have themselves reviewed, as part of the victim’s right to review, and my understanding is that that particularly task has been finished.
“That means a report arriving from that and all the evidence of that and future evidence of an inquest is being considered by the SPA.
“We understand that review is going to be heard this week or next week, and that means the window when a submission decision is going to be made is over two weeks, starting from September 19.
“The prosecution authority is likely to be able to come to an outcome of the process from Monday, September 19 to Friday, September 30.
“I should mention that the binary outcome will be either to prosecute or not, and if there’s not to be a prosecution, there would be a direction explaining that by the SPA.”
Mr Moss added that it was likely to take the SPA a further week to put its decision in writing to the coroners’ office.
If there is a decision not to prosecute, the adjourned inquest would be opened again, and a provisional date for its resumption was made to start on January 16, and last either two or three days.
Lance Corporal Brynin, 22, known to his friends as Jay, died in Helmand Province on Tuesday October 15, 2013.
At the time of his death he lived in Pulborough, and he is the first soldier from the village to have lost his life since 1948.
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Investigation into death of soldier killed by friendly fire almost complete


Entries are being sought for the Stride Open Art 2016 which will run at Chichester’s Oxmarket Centre of Arts from October 11-23.
Centre spokesman David Souter: “The Oxmarket Centre of Arts is indebted to Stride & Son for their sponsorship of our recent success, the 40th Anniversary Retrospective Exhibition. The Oxmarket is also sponsored each year for £1,000 prize money for the Stride Open Art Competition and is calling for entries online for the first time.
“With a £500 first prize for painting (along with the Stride Trophy), £250 second prize, £250 for the drawing prize and £100 for the Lawrence Williams Prize for Abstract Painting, the competition is open to all artists in East and West Sussex, Hampshire and Surrey, with the exhibition taking place between October 11-23.”
Full details on how to enter the competition are online at the Oxmarket website: oxmarket.com/stride-open-art-2016
Initial entry is by email: artists should send up to six images to info@oxmarket.com with STRIDE 2016 as the subject line. Entry cost is £12 per image (£10 per image for members) and payment can be by cash, cheque, or debit/credit card. The email should include the name of the artist and their postal address and phone number, along with the title, medium, size and price of each entry. The JPEG images should be named as the artist and title of the work.
The deadline for entry is Monday, September 26. Artists will be notified by email by October 1 if their work has been selected for the exhibition, and the work must be delivered on the weekend of Saturday and Sunday, October 8 and 9, 10am-4.30pm.

Entries sought for Chichester-based art competition and exhibition


A coastguard helicopter has been spotted circling above Camber Sands days after five men lost their lives on the beach.
It follows reports that a swimmer has been reported missing.
The Royal National Lifeboat Association has been contacted for more information.
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COUNTY NEWS: Coastguard helicopter circling above Camber Sands


A man suffering from a rare form of dementia has been banned from a string of supermarkets, his local leisure centre and library.
Laurie Butcher, of Lucastes Avenue, Haywards Heath, has frontotemporal dementia which has caused a fundamental personality change.
And this week his wife Jill spoke of the agony of living with the disease. She says it has changed Laurie from a ‘jokey pleasant chap’ to one who is ‘extremely unpleasant.’
“He’s not the man I married,” said Jill, 69. “He’s not like anyone I would choose to marry.”
But she is at pains to point out that it is the illness causing the problems, not Laurie himself. The disease has affected Laurie’s communication, social skills and language.
Now Jill wants to raise awareness of the disease - which often strikes younger people - in a bid to help others. “One of the big problems is lack of understanding by the public, and even by members of the medical profession.”
And she added: “Although he is quite harmless, Laurie is banned from entering various places in Haywards Heath because of his bizarre behaviour.
“For example he was sent home from Sainsbury’s in a police car a couple of weeks ago. Sainsbury’s could not tell me what he did because that would have been a breach of the Data Protection Act. And I’m his wife and carer.”
Laurie, 75, who used to work in advertising, first became ill around 11 years ago. “I think quickly after that we began to find we were losing friends. Our social life began to disintergrate.
“He cracks jokes and considers he is being funny. He’s not,” said Jill. “His behaviour is very bizarre.” She said he sometimes imitated accents and spoke aloud whatever came into his head.
“He’s not dangerous, but he will push children out of the way and he swears a lot. None of this is his fault. It’s the disease.
“I have to admit he is exremely unpleasant. I have to admit that. I don’t blame people for the way they react.”
Jill, who now runs a carers’ support group, said the disease - which can be difficult to diagnose - was progressive and terminal. “The brain is fundamentally shrinking.”
Cutting edge research into the disease is currently being carried out at University College London.
An FTD (frontotemporal dementia) Awareness Week is being held from September 24 - October 1.

Man suffering from dementia ‘banned from supermarkets’


Get the latest breaking news from the West Sussex County Times - politics, transport, education, health, environment and more, updated daily.


A man suspected of murdering a 19-year-old woman has been released on bail, police have said.
The 27-year-old man from Portslade was arrested on suspicion of murder on Thursday in Burgess Hill after police officers found the body of Shana Grice at her address in Chrisdory Road, Mile Oak at just before 9.45am.
Flowers were placed at the scene of Shana Grice's murder yesterday, Saturday, August 27. Picture: Eddie Mitchell
He has been released on bail until September 29 pending further enquiries, Sussex Police added.
Her parents paid tribute to their daughter, who they described as their ‘beautiful girl’. Read more here.
Flowers were placed at the scene yesterday while the investigation continues.
Detective Superintendent Jason Taylor said: “This remains an ongoing investigation and has understandably come as a shock to the local community.
Flowers were placed at the scene of Shana Grice's murder yesterday, Saturday, August 27. Picture: Eddie Mitchell
“Our thoughts are with Shana Grice’s family and friends and we would ask anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area, no matter how insignificant you may think it was, to get in touch.”
Witnesses can email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101 quoting Operation Bow.
Alternatively, witnesses can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or by visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.
As previously reported, the death has been notified to the body which handles police complaints because officers had contact with Shana before she was murdered. Click here to read more.
Shana Grice, 19, has been named by Sussex Police as the murder victim. Picture: Sussex Police
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Scottish alt blues singer Dave Arcari follows up the release of his latest EP Hellbound Train with a live show at Brighton’s Komedia on Thursday, September 22.
Released on Buzz Records, the EP features three new tracks from Dave plus a version of Son House’s classic Pearline.
Other than the release of McPherson’s Lament as a digital single to mark Burns’ Day earlier in the year, this is Arcari’s first release in three years – and pre-empts a full-length album Givers & Takers which is scheduled for release in early 2017.
“I’ve been working on a whole bunch of new songs for a while,” says Dave. “But despite plans to record and release them long before now, things have been so busy on the road there just hasn’t been time – not that I can complain about that!”
After his Brighton visit Arcari plays the Beaufort Theatre, Ebbw Vale (Saturday, September 24) and Balmaha’s Braw Weekend festival (Saturday, October 1) on the shores of Loch Lomond before heading across the Atlantic for a five-week USA tour through October and into November.
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Arcari offers Brighton gig ahead of album


Steyning Town Football Club manager Gerry Murphy was delighted after seeing his side claim back-to-back bank hoilday away wins.
Town, who are yet to play a home game this season due to a 3G surface being installed at their Shooting Field home, sealed a 2-1 win at Ringmer on Saturday, before coming out 3-1 victors over Billingshurst two days later.
Having collected three wins and lost just once to date, Murphy has been pleased with his side’s progress.
On Saturday, Rob Clark’s strike five minutes after the break, then Charles Romain’s effort on the hour put Town in command.
Benjamin Jesson’s late strike ensured a nervy finale but Steyning held on, with Murphy pleased to take all three points.
He said: “We were let off the hook a little as they missed a penalty in the first minute.
“After the break, kicking up the slope, we started brighter and played some good football on a difficult surface.
“We got two goals and looked pretty comfortable. We got a little scrappy in the last 15 minutes, then gave a goal away but we deserved the win on the day.”
Town then followed that success up with an impressive display at Billingshurst.
Chad Milner netted twice, while Clark scored for the second game running to give Steyning victory.
Milner put Steyning ahead on 20 minutes but back came back Billingshurst to level six minutes later through Samuel Gravestock.
Town took the lead for a second time ten minutes before the break, then Clark rounded off the scoring on the hour.
Murphy was happy to see his side collect another three points.
He said: “It was a lovely pitch with both teams trying to play football.
“We gave away a needless corner, which we conceded from but other than that we were comfortable.
“It’s great to get two more wins on the road, it’s been a good start so far.”
STEYNING v Billingshurst: Rose; Elms, Hare, Dodd, Greer, Bukleb, Wadey, Clark, Levoi, Milner, Romain. Subs: Boys, Hull-Flowers, Skipper.
v Ringmer: Rose; Hare, Wadey, Elms, Dodd, Bukleb, Skipper, Greer, Milner, Romain, Clark. Subs: Levoi, Boys.
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Back-to-back victories leave Murphy delighted


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A boy has been taken to hospital after being stabbed, and police are appealing for witnesses.
Sussex Police said officers are investigating the stabbing of a 15-year-old boy in Kings Road, Brighton this morning.
Emergency services were called at around 2.10am and after treatment by paramedics the victim was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, police said.
Two men were arrested by police officers nearby; one by Pavilion Gardens, the other near Jubilee Street.
An 18-year-old man from Brighton was arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent and currently remains in police custody.
A 28-year-old man of no fixed address was arrested on suspicion of wounding with intent and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place. He also remains in custody at this time, police added.
Detective Constable Rowan Carter said: “We would very much like to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time and who saw something suspicious.
“It was a fast moving investigation at the scene and so even if you spoke to officers in the early hours, we’d still like you to get in touch to ensure we have all of your information that could help.
“Witnesses can email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101 quoting reference 188 of 27/08.”
Alternatively, witnesses can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or go to crimestoppers-uk.org.
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COUNTY NEWS: Two men arrested after boy is stabbed


Reds fan Geoff Thornton writes his regular column on the latest events at Crawley Town
Maybe there is something in avian DNA that ensures magpies always get the better of crows.
Certainly fixtures against the Magpies of Notts County invariably bring out the worst in Crawley Town.
Changes of management and players make no difference and the Reds contrived to make a pig’s ear of the proceedings in a fixture full of promise.
Dermot Drummy is happy with the team spirit shown by his players but the problem is when they are in a backs-to-the-wall situation and need to battle the quality of their football declines markedly.
Nobody is affected more in such circumstances than skipper and fans’ favourite Jimmy Smith. When pressure demands a further increase in his impressive work- rate he lacks the necessary guile and mistakes creep into his play.
Although County were the first to expose our defensive frailties this season the problem stems from midfield. Reds missed the injured Josh Payne as much as they have missed Jordan Roberts.
It is telling that Payne’s replacement was centre back Josh Yorwerth and when the impressive young Welshman also sustained an injury, Drummy’s answer lay not on the bench but in a change of role for centre half Alex Davey.
We all trust that the touted end of window signing brings in a player whose experience is that of playing in front of the back-four. On the flanks all looked fine as Enzio Boldewijn glided effortlessly past defenders and then finished very well to give Crawley the lead. Top marks too to Billy Clifford for his canny headed flick from Lewis Young’s throw-in that set up the chance.
Jason Banton was up for the challenge against his former club but was hooked surprisingly early. Perhaps it wasn’t that surprising as regulars at Broadfield have rarely understood the substitutions made by a succession of managers.
Our midfield problems are exemplified by a shortcoming that has dogged Crawley for years. Simply our passing is not good enough. At times it is woeful but almost always inferior to the opposition’s. That has been the case even in successful seasons and improving those skills must be Matt Gray’s highest priority.
Crawley scored their customary goal but their finishing against County fell short. James Collins has not suggested that he is the answer and it may be that his confidence is low. The need to play two up top is evident and the fact that Drummy hasn’t done so may indicate concerns about the long term fitness of Matt Harrold and perhaps the capabilities of his other forward players.
In the short term he must do something to curb the impulsive excesses of Andre Blackman. The penalty conceded by his ridiculous hand ball did not cause our defeat but he is developing as a very competent full-back and needs to let his football do the talking.
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TASTE OF THE TERRACE: Home fans give Crawley the bird


New images have shown the ongoing siege between police and an armed man in West Sussex.
As previously reported, Sussex Police were called to Harbour Road in Pagham following reports of a 72-year-old man with a gun using threatening behaviour.
Police are still at the scene of the armed man siege in Pagham. Picture: UKNIP
Police said negotiations with the man are still ongoing at this stage.
The siege is well into its second day. Read more here.
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Police are still at the scene of the armed man siege in Pagham. Picture: UKNIP
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Police are still at the scene of the armed man siege in Pagham. Picture: UKNIP
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COUNTY NEWS: New images show armed man siege


West Sussex provides the second best area in England and Wales for quality of life for pensioners a new report claims.
The Quality of Retirement Index from Prudential assessed counties against seven criteria to indicate the extent to which people could enjoy a happy and comfortable retirement. These were: access to healthcare, crime levels, pensioner incomes, the weather, life expectancy, how many pensioners already lived in a particular area and how many were moving into the county. The counties were then given a score and ranked.
Prudential used data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) among other sources to make its findings. Dorset topped the table but West Sussex and Herefordshire came joint second, with Devon in fourth position and the Isle of Wight and East Sussex ranked joint fifth. Prudential said Dorset topped the rankings for quality of retirement owing to its “all-round appeal”. The research also found pensioners in Surrey, ranked at number 10, received the highest average annual retirement income, at £21,200. The full table is:
1. Dorset =2. Herefordshire =2. West Sussex 4. Devon =5. Isle of Wight =5. East Sussex 7. Rutland 8. Dyfed 9. Norfolk 10. Surrey

Retiring? Then West Sussex is the place to be


Most of us have a mobile phone. We use it every day to keep in touch with work, friends and family and find out what’s going on in the world.
But what if the phone signal was used to scramble people’s brains, turning them into murdering savages?
That’s the basic plot of Cell.
In a cracking start to the movie, John Cusack plays Clay Riddell, an artist who is trying to contact his son and estranged wife while waiting at an airport.
All of a sudden everyone using a mobile phone hears a high pitched sound that turns them into homicidal maniacs; luckily Riddell’s battery has packed up.
Although not dead, these people act like all the zombies you’ve ever seen in movies, running around until someone actually does kill them.
Riddell manages to escape and teams up with a motley crew of people including Tom McCourt (Samuel L. Jackson) and Alice Maxwell (Isabelle Fuhrman).
Director Tod Williams serves up plenty of action, raising the tension, adding a few jump shocks and generally keeping the audience on the edge of its seat.
The final third may well split the audience into those happy with how the story goes and those who are disappointed.
I was OK with the final scenes but if you like all the loose ends tied up neatly then you’ll be frustrated.
The main cast all put in a good shift and it’s a particularly good role for Cusack.
The fact that the story is based on a Stephen King novel will attract an audience and at least give people a chance to make their own judgement on the film.


Emergency services have attended a death at an address in West Sussex that was described as ‘sudden’ by police.
Sussex Police said officers were sent to a property at Grove Road, Broadwater, in Worthing, at around 12.30pm today following reports of a death.
The police have issued a statement which said: “Police are currently in attendance at an address in Grove Road, Broadwater following the report of a sudden death.
“The circumstances are currently unexplained and have required the attendance of specialist officers.
“Police believe the circumstances to relate to one address, with no other residents or members of the public in danger.”
A spokesperson added that the coroner’s office had been informed and that two police vehicles were currently at the scene.
They added that ambulances and the fire service had also been in attendance.
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COUNTY NEWS: ‘Sudden death’ reported in suburban road


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Sussex headteachers have shared their concerns about the rising cost of university education.
With a number of universities in England announcing they would be raising their annual fees above the £9,000 limit, there are fears higher education could once again become the playground of the elite.
Michael Ferry, Headteacher at St Wilfrid's, Crawley. Pic Steve Robards SR1520189 SUS-150820-140229001
Michael Ferry, head of St Wilfrid’s School, in Crawley, said the idea of increasing fees was “alarming” and added: “This will only put students off from entering university as they will be saddled with increased amounts of debt.
“Although many schools, including St Wilfrid’s, spend a lot of time demystifying what you pay for and when, it will certainly put people off from applying if fees rise.
“If we are not careful as a society, we will go back in time to an age when only a small minority were able to access a university place and even they were given a grant to do so.”
Peter Woodman, head of The Weald School, in Billingshurst, said he did not think students had been put off by the high fees, but were more selective about their choices.
We should do everything we can to ensure that access to university is fair and that people get in on merit, not because of which school they went to or how much money their parents have. Michael Ferry, headteacher, St Wilfrid’s School
He added: “They want to go to a university where the teaching is good and the support first class. They do not just want a degree.
“They want the right course that is also value for money and provides them with the right educational experience for their next step in life.”
When it came to earning a place at university, Mr Woodman felt the increasingly difficult A-levels would lead to a fall in the numbers making the grade.
He agreed the rising fees could also see students from less well-off backgrounds deciding the cost was too high.
Currently, any student debts not paid back after 30 years are wiped out and there are that, if that safety net was withdrawn, talented youngsters would choose to enter employment or an apprenticeship rather than achieving their full potential at university.
Mr Woodman recognised the difficulties faced by the government when it scrapped free university education.
He pointed out the percentage of students participating in higher education had risen from 10 per cent in the 1980s to more than 40 per cent and added: “This comes at a cost.
“Providing virtually free higher education to 10 per centr of the population was one thing but providing it to over 40 per cent of the population is expensive.”
Summing up his feeling, Mr Ferry said: “Universities are great places for their further development and although not everyone wants to apply, we should do everything we can to ensure that access to university is fair and that people get in on merit, not because of which school they went to or how much money their parents have.”
Mr Woodman agreed, describing a framed extract of a speech made by playwright Alan Bennett, which hangs in his office.
Called Fair Play, it reads: “We all know that to educate, not according to ability but according to the social situation of the parents, is both wrong and a waste.”
He said: “I whole heartedly agree. As such, I worry that increasing university fees yet again will allow the sons and daughters of those who can afford university to go and those who cannot afford it, not to go.
“Unless mechanisms are put in place to encourage and support those students and families this would be both unfair and a tragic waste of potential.”
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Heads share concerns over university fees


The average driver in Sussex will be travelling 67 miles over the Bank Holiday, a new poll has found.
More than 2,000 motorists from around the area were asked where they would be travelling over the three-day break, and how much they would be using their vehicles.
More than half – 52 per cent – said they would be using their car, and one in ten said they would be going away for the Bank Holiday.
The most popular scenic route around the UK driven by motorists in Sussex is around Cheddar Gorge in Somerset, with more than one in five, 22 per cent, having taken this road.
More than two thirds of motorists from this area, 69 per cent, have been on a driving holiday, more than any other region in the UK according to the poll commissioned by Confused.com.
And it’s not a surprise when just over four-fifths – 81 per cent – of those questioned said that they enjoy driving.
Abroad, more than a quarter – 26 per cent – of South East motorists said they would like to take the Route 66, the famous road in America which spans a distance of more than 2,000 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica.
What will you be doing this Bank Holiday weekend? Comment below.
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POLL: Sussex drivers ‘will travel 67 miles’ during Bank Holiday


Steyning Grammar School had reason to celebrate as its students achieved top results despite falling grades nationally.
Its pupils’ progress levels are among the highest in the area, achieving an impressive +0.4 Progress 8 score.
Students at Steyning Grammar School celebrating their results
This new government system shows how much students improve from primary to secondary school based on how much better or worse they do compared to their predicted grades. Click here for a full explanation.
More than two thirds of the school’s students – 67.5 per cent – achieved five A*-Cs including English and Maths.
The school said it was one of its ‘best sets of results in a year of huge changes in the ways students are examined’.
“GCSEs are getting tougher and our results have improved by nearly 4% compared to last year”, it said.
Every group of students, whatever educational challenges they faced, made superb progress compared to similar students nationally Nick Wergan
Three quarters of students gained five A*– Cs in their subjects, with 22 per cent of all grades achieved being A*-As.
Almost 50 per cent of all grades achieved by SGS students were graded A*-B, and 21 per cent of students achieved five or more A*-A grades.
Head teacher Nick Wergan said: “Congratulations to our students for their hard work and grit – they deserved to be successful and I am delighted we increased results in a year where grade boundaries seem to have again gotten more difficult.
“In a changing educational world these are an excellent set of results, and I am hugely grateful to staff and to home for their dedicated support.
Students at Steyning Grammar School celebrating their results
“We are moving now into a system that values the progress every student makes from their own starting points, rather than whether they get a particular benchmark grade, and our early estimation of the progress all our GCSE students made is exceptional.
“Every group of students, whatever educational challenges they faced, made superb progress compared to similar students nationally. We are determined at Steyning Grammar to support every student in being ‘the best they can be’ and I thank our students for rising admirably again to this expectation.”
Nat Nicol, deputy head teacher, said: “I couldn’t be prouder of all students in Year 11 and their achievements, both academically and personally, throughout their time at SGS.
“Their school experience is about much more than just results, but to see the tears of joy and the huge smiles on their faces when receiving their grades this morning makes all of their academic commitment worthwhile.
“I’m delighted that many of them will continue to be part of the SGS family by attending Steyning Grammar School Sixth Form college and wish each and every student success and happiness in their chosen next steps.”
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