Monday, January 19, 2026

Portage County Soil and Water Conservation District members gathered Oct. 3 to honor the county's conservationist of the year and to honor Richard (Dick) Wetzel's 29-year career with the district before his retirement this winter.

The USDA revised how it will establish oilseed bases under the new direct and counter-cyclical program contained in the 2002 farm bill.

When a medical condition forced Larry Hoover, 54, to sell his draft horses, he didn't drift far from the equine business. He formed Alpine Manufacturing, a company that builds the shafts used in harness racing that connects the horse to the race bike.

Buyers turned out in force to show their support for the junior fair livestock exhibitors during the 2002 Ashland County Junior Fair Livestock Auction.

"I am lucky and fortunate to be a breast cancer survivor," writes letter writer Pattie Coplin. "Many women refuse to take a proactive role against breast cancer and ignore the situation completely."

Employees of two area businesses will enjoy some good eating after their employers purchased champion 4-H animals recently at the Tuscarawas County Fair.

The James A. Garfield Historical Society in Portage County, Ohio, will host its 2002 Christmas Walk Nov. 1-3, 8-10.

Reader is disappointed that Farm and Dairy didn't support the intent behind the Farm Aid concerts.

Waiting for the USDA to shake out the details in the new farm program could be wise strategy.

"I am lucky and fortunate to be a breast cancer survivor," writes letter writer Pattie Coplin. "Many women refuse to take a proactive role against breast cancer and ignore the situation completely."