Markling goes from farm girl to world’s strongest woman

Karen Markling lost her father, Oscar “Curly” Flinner, to a work accident when she was just 2 years old, but his legacy inspired her lifelong dedication to strength and resilience. This determination led her to become one of the world’s strongest women.

Todd Stumpf

Todd Stumpf Todd Stumpf

Published August 7, 2025 - 6:00 p.m. Modified August 7, 2025 - 6:00 p.m.

Karen Markling was 2 years old when she lost her father to a work-related accident. She never really knew him.

Thanks to the efforts of countless others, Markling knew plenty about her Dad, and as a result, spent her life dedicating herself to his memory and keeping his legacy alive. Now 76, Markling continues to do all of that.

Lady of a million hugs set to retire from Killbuck

After 45 years a beloved staff member known for her hugs and dedication to students will step down as the new school building nears completion

Killbuck’s Right to Read Week a special one this year

Community invited to join students for Columbus Zoo visit as part of Right to Read Week celebration

HCA brings art to life for DD Awareness Month

Holmes Center for the Arts hosts event with music and art for individuals with disabilities in Holmes County

Helping seniors downsize and transition from the home

Mary Locy offers guidance on downsizing and moving to senior living communities

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Local

Widder’s class uses puppy power to beat the winter blues

Third-graders visit Berlin for a day of reading and bonding with puppies after January snowstorm

Nashville TOPS highlights heart-healthy food swaps

Local group learns diet changes to prevent heart attacks and strokes at Nashville Global Methodist Church

WHMS robotics students built their way to state from ground up

Four WHMS teams compete at Ohio VEX Robotics Championship in Dayton, showcasing student-driven innovation and teamwork

Judge Lee’s mock trial provides valued insight for Rush Run students

Mock trial in Millersburg educates Rush Run students on legal consequences

Maple Syrup Missions Festival returns to Kidron

Sonnenberg Mennonite Church hosts breakfast fundraiser April 25

Sports

West Holmes track teams excel at West Side Classic

Girls finish fourth, boys fifth in meet near Zanesville with standout performances in shot put and relay events

Hiland baseball edges Claymont in extra innings

Isaiah Wagler's game-winning hit secures 1-0 victory in Inter-Valley Conference matchup

Joe Gilmore named athletic director at West Holmes High School

Gilmore to begin role Aug. 1, bringing leadership from Waynedale High School

Hiland, Smithville lead All-Ohio boys basketball honors

Local standouts earn spots in Ohio Prep Sports Media Association awards

Depth, youth set tone for Wayne, Holmes County girls track season

Local teams prepare with a mix of seasoned athletes and fresh talent for the upcoming season

Wayne, Holmes County boys track teams gear up for 2026 season

Local high school teams prepare with veteran leaders and new talent for upcoming competitions

Mission accomplished

Hawks deliver in the clutch to earn Division VI state crown

Life and Learning

Holmes County Library announces April events

Programs include storytime, a creative writing contest and book clubs across multiple locations

David Phelps to perform in Sugarcreek

Grammy winner brings Speak of Love Tour to Ohio Star Theater on April 4

West Holmes FFA enjoys snow tubing event

Local FFA members from West Holmes joined seven chapters at Snow Trails for a day of tubing and pizza

Tyler Cook named principal at Flat Ridge, Wise

Cook to lead Flat Ridge and Wise elementary schools starting Aug. 1, succeeding retiring Principal Casey Travis

Holmes County 4-H Shooting Sports Club meeting set

Organizational meeting and officer elections March 14 near Millersburg

Passover traditions explained by area scholars

Local experts discuss the history and customs of Passover, highlighting its significance and timing in relation to Easter

Columns and Opinion

Public Affairs

OneEighty marks April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Local nonprofit offers support and education to combat sexual violence in local communities

Park district prepares to begin final leg of trail

Final phase of construction set to start in May, with completion expected by October

New nursing contract tops discussion for sheriff’s office

Pomerene Hospital to provide daily nursing services amid staffing challenges

Holmes County Habitat for Humanity apps now available for 2027

Applications available at Millersburg locations through April 30

Avery’s Law creates important changes in dog warden’s office

New regulations enhance safety and reduce liability for the Holmes County Dog Warden & Adoption Center starting March 20

West Holmes board approves financial reports

Board meeting at Nashville Elementary covers policy updates, personnel changes and new business initiatives

East Holmes school board approves key changes

Board meeting March 20 covers contracts, policy updates and personnel shifts for upcoming school years

CLHS of Wayne/Holmes to present McIntosh program

Free event at Shreve Presbyterian Church April 18 explores Revolutionary War history

Obituaries

David J. Beachy

David J. Beachy, 83, of Winesburg, Ohio (Alpine) passed away suddenly at his home on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, following a period of declining health.

Ina S. Mast

Ina S. (Troyer) Mast, 69, of Baltic, Ohio passed away at her residence surrounded by her family on Monday, March 30, 2026, following a one-year battle with cancer.