CORPORATE CRIME: Seneca County WIN Waste/Sunny Farms Landfill Falsified Inspection Reports

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SENECA COUNTY, OHIO – The Sunny Farms Landfill, operated by WIN Waste Innovations, is under fire after the Seneca County Board of Health issued a resolution declaring its intent to deny the company’s 2025 operating license. The resolution, passed unanimously, accuses WIN Waste of falsifying inspection reports and violating numerous environmental regulations.

At the heart of the scandal lies Ben Nutter, the individual responsible for overseeing landfill operations. Many community members are calling for him to face legal consequences, with some even suggesting jail time for his role in the alleged misconduct.

A Pattern of Noncompliance

The Board of Health resolution outlines a damning series of violations by WIN Waste at Sunny Farms Landfill. Among the most serious allegations is the falsification of inspection reports. According to the resolution, the company maintained an internal inspection log documenting ongoing erosion and ponding issues, while the reports submitted to the Seneca County General Health District (SCGHD) and the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) omitted these issues entirely. This discrepancy raises concerns of intentional deception.

Additionally, WIN Waste is accused of:

  • Failing to protect the landfill’s intermediate cover from erosion and water damage.
  • Neglecting to comply with Ohio Administrative Code requirements for erosion control best practices.
  • Violating hydrogen sulfide emission limits specified in its Title V permit.
  • Failing to inspect rail cars daily for leaks or spills as required by the conditions of its 2023 and 2024 licenses.

“WIN Waste has failed to comply with its 2023 and 2024 license conditions,” said Dr. Clay Wolph, President of the Seneca County Board of Health. “It does not make sense to issue another operating license with conditions that won’t be followed. The 2023 and 2024 license conditions are more than reasonable and are necessary to safeguard our environment and residents.”

Community Outrage and Calls for Accountability

The revelations have sparked widespread outrage in Seneca County, with residents demanding accountability. Much of the community’s ire is directed at Ben Nutter, whose role in overseeing the landfill has drawn sharp criticism. Many locals argue that Nutter’s failure to enforce compliance and his apparent oversight of falsified reports make him complicit in the scandal.

“Ben Nutter has been the face of oversight for this landfill, yet we’ve seen nothing but failure to protect the community from the environmental hazards this facility poses,” said local activist Karen DuBois. “If these allegations are true, he should face the same consequences as anyone committing fraud—including jail time.”

Several residents have taken to social media to voice their frustrations, with hashtags like #HoldNutterAccountable and #SunnyFarmsFraud trending locally. Activists are organizing town hall meetings to discuss the issue and explore legal action against Nutter and WIN Waste Innovations.

The Path Forward

WIN Waste has 30 days to request a hearing before a hearing examiner, who will issue a recommendation to the Board. The Board’s final decision will determine whether the 2025 operating license is granted or denied. If denied, WIN Waste can appeal the decision to the Environmental Review Appeals Commission (ERAC). In the meantime, the company is permitted to continue operating under its 2024 license, though it has already filed a separate case disputing the conditions of that license.

For many in Seneca County, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Sunny Farms Landfill has long been a source of controversy, with ongoing complaints about odors, groundwater contamination, and public health risks. This latest scandal adds a new layer of mistrust between the community and the landfill operators.

“This isn’t just about a license; it’s about protecting our community from a company that has repeatedly shown it can’t be trusted,” said DuBois. “We need accountability now more than ever.”

A Call for Justice

As the Board of Health moves forward with its proceedings, community members continue to demand answers. Whether through civil penalties or criminal charges, residents insist that both WIN Waste and Ben Nutter be held responsible for their roles in this environmental and ethical failure.

The coming months will reveal whether the legal system and regulatory bodies are prepared to take meaningful action or if Sunny Farms Landfill will remain a symbol of unchecked corporate malpractice in Seneca County.

 

 

The Unregulated World of Delta-8 THC: A Buyer Beware Guide

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Delta-8 THC has become a buzzword in the cannabis industry, hailed as a milder alternative to Delta-9 THC with less intense psychoactive effects. Found in everything from gummies to vape cartridges, Delta-8 products are readily available in smoke shops, gas stations, and online stores. But beneath the surface lies a significant issue: the lack of regulation surrounding Delta-8 THC products. This unregulated status raises questions about safety, quality, and legality. Here, we dive into why consumers should tread carefully in this gray market.

What is Delta-8 THC?

Delta-8 THC is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in hemp and cannabis plants, albeit in very small quantities. To produce it at scale, manufacturers typically convert cannabidiol (CBD) into Delta-8 THC through a chemical process. This synthetic conversion, while effective, introduces potential risks if not conducted under stringent quality controls.

Why is Delta-8 THC Unregulated?

The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived cannabinoids as long as they contain less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC. However, Delta-8 THC exists in a legal gray area. It’s technically derived from hemp, making it federally legal in theory, but its synthetic production blurs the lines. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other federal agencies have yet to issue comprehensive regulations for Delta-8 THC products, leaving a void in oversight.

State-level regulation varies widely. Some states, like Colorado and New York, have banned Delta-8 outright, while others permit its sale with minimal restrictions. In jurisdictions where Delta-8 THC is legal, there are often no mandates for testing, labeling, or quality assurance.

The Risks of Unregulated Products

1. Safety Concerns

The chemical conversion process used to create Delta-8 THC can leave behind harmful contaminants, such as residual solvents, acids, or unknown byproducts. Without regulatory oversight, there is no guarantee that these substances are removed before the product reaches consumers.

2. Lack of Testing

Reputable cannabis products undergo third-party lab testing to confirm potency and ensure they’re free of pesticides, heavy metals, and other harmful substances. Many Delta-8 THC products sold in smoke shops, gas stations, and online lack these crucial safeguards. A lack of transparency in testing increases the risk of consuming unsafe or mislabeled products.

3. Misleading Labeling

Without standards for labeling, Delta-8 THC products often contain inaccurate information about potency and ingredients. Some products may have significantly more or less Delta-8 THC than advertised, and others may include synthetic cannabinoids or other harmful additives.

4. Vulnerable Consumers

Delta-8 THC’s mild reputation appeals to novice cannabis users seeking a less intense experience. Unfortunately, these consumers are more likely to trust unverified products, unaware of the potential risks.

Spotting Red Flags: What to Avoid

To navigate the unregulated Delta-8 market, consumers should be vigilant. Here’s what to look out for:

  1. Lack of Third-Party Lab Reports: Reputable manufacturers provide Certificates of Analysis (COAs) from accredited labs. If a product doesn’t have a COA or the report seems vague, consider it a red flag.
  2. Unprofessional Packaging: Products with cartoonish branding or unclear ingredient lists often aim to lure uninformed buyers rather than prioritize safety and quality.
  3. Untrustworthy Vendors: Gas stations, convenience stores, and some online shops are notorious for carrying low-quality or counterfeit Delta-8 THC products.

How to Choose Safe Delta-8 THC Products

If you choose to explore Delta-8 THC, take these precautions:

  1. Research the Brand: Look for brands with positive reviews, clear manufacturing processes, and a history of transparency.
  2. Verify Lab Testing: Only purchase products that come with detailed COAs verifying potency and the absence of contaminants.
  3. Shop at Reputable Retailers: Licensed dispensaries and trusted online stores are more likely to offer high-quality Delta-8 THC products.
  4. Check State Laws: Ensure Delta-8 THC is legal in your area and familiarize yourself with any local regulations.

The Future of Delta-8 THC Regulation

As Delta-8 THC’s popularity continues to grow, regulatory agencies like the FDA are likely to step in. Clear guidelines could standardize testing, labeling, and manufacturing, creating a safer market for consumers. Until then, the onus remains on buyers to do their homework and prioritize safety over convenience.

Conclusion

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Fostoria, Ohio: Breaking Free from Old Habits to Embrace a New Future

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Fostoria, Ohio, a city with a storied past and a community deeply rooted in tradition, faces a dilemma that extends beyond economic decline. While the collapse of industry and manufacturing has undoubtedly contributed to the city’s struggles, an often-overlooked barrier to revitalization lies in the mindset of its small business owners and community leaders. A reluctance to embrace innovation and a preference for maintaining the status quo have hindered Fostoria’s ability to adapt and thrive in a changing world.

The Weight of Tradition

For decades, Fostoria’s economy was defined by its local businesses and tight-knit community. This culture bred a sense of loyalty and pride, but it also fostered a resistance to change. Many small business owners have clung to an outdated belief that Fostoria should remain a small, self-contained town, advertising only to locals and rejecting outside competition. While well-intentioned, this mindset has stifled growth and limited the city’s ability to attract new opportunities.

The aversion to competition is particularly harmful. Rather than seeing new businesses as a chance to energize the economy and bring fresh ideas, many existing business owners view them as threats. This protective attitude has created a stagnant environment where innovation struggles to take root.

Why Competition is Crucial

Economists agree that competition is the lifeblood of a healthy economy. It drives businesses to improve their products, services, and customer experiences. In cities that welcome new enterprises, the influx of fresh ideas and investments often leads to increased consumer spending and job creation. Fostoria, however, has largely resisted this concept, opting instead to preserve a shrinking status quo.

The reluctance to embrace competition also discourages collaboration and resource sharing among businesses. Inter-business networking—a tool that could revitalize the local economy—is underutilized because many owners prioritize protecting their own interests over collective growth. This lack of unity undermines efforts to market Fostoria as a destination for visitors and investors.

The Cost of Staying Small

The consequences of this mindset are evident in Fostoria’s declining population and economic stagnation. Young people, in particular, are leaving the city in search of better opportunities, both professionally and socially. The lack of progressive thinking and innovation among local leaders leaves little incentive for them to return.

Recent failures highlight the risks of staying small-minded. The closure of the Buckeye on Main bar after a health department complaint about sewage in the basement underscores the challenges of running a successful business without forward-thinking strategies or investment in quality control. Similarly, the shutdown of the PPG/Alpha Coatings factory and layoffs at nearby Teijen Automotive demonstrate how clinging to outdated practices can leave a city vulnerable when economic landscapes shift.

A New Mindset for a New Age

For Fostoria to reverse its fortunes, it must embrace a culture of innovation and adaptability. Business owners and community leaders must recognize that competition is not a threat but an opportunity. New businesses can draw visitors, increase spending, and provide jobs, all of which benefit the local economy.

Modern marketing strategies, such as digital advertising and social media outreach, should replace outdated methods that focus solely on local audiences. Fostoria’s rich history and charm can be leveraged to attract tourists and entrepreneurs, but only if the city positions itself as open and welcoming to outsiders.

Collaboration among businesses and community groups is another critical step. Shared initiatives, such as hosting festivals or creating co-op marketing campaigns, can help build a sense of unity and showcase Fostoria as a vibrant, forward-thinking city.

Looking to the Future

Fostoria’s biggest obstacle is not its location or its resources—it is its mindset. Until the community embraces change and rejects the notion that staying small is the only way to preserve its identity, the city will continue to face population decline and economic stagnation.

The choice is clear: Fostoria can remain tied to the habits of the past, or it can break free and chart a new course. With open minds and a willingness to adapt, the city has the potential to transform into a hub of innovation and opportunity. The time to act is now, before the window for meaningful change closes for good.

Addiction & Recovery Services Are Back in Fostoria: A New Hope with Talbot Health Services

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The people of Fostoria, Ohio, have faced significant challenges accessing critical addiction and mental health services ever since Firelands Counseling closed its doors in the area. For many in need, the lack of reliable transportation to reach services in Tiffin created a serious barrier to receiving care. Fortunately, Talbot Health Services has stepped up to fill this void, offering a wide range of addiction recovery and mental health support right here in Fostoria.

Located at 125 S Main St, Suite 211, Talbot Health Services offers comprehensive care to help individuals and families affected by addiction and mental health struggles. The following services are now available locally, providing much-needed resources to those in the community.

Talbot Health Services Accepts all Medicare, Medicaid & most Private Insurances. We accept all Ohio Managed Care Plans which include (Caresource, Molina, Buckeye, United Health Community, Aetna Better Health, Anthem BCBS)

Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)

For individuals battling opioid and alcohol addiction, Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) combines medication with behavioral therapy to manage cravings and reduce the risk of relapse. Common medications such as buprenorphine, buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone), and naltrexone (Vivitrol) are used to support recovery while patients engage in ongoing therapy.

Individual Counseling

Addiction often stems from underlying emotional and psychological issues. The licensed therapists at Talbot Health Services use evidence-based practices like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to help clients identify the root causes of their addiction and work toward meaningful change. These one-on-one sessions provide a safe space for individuals to confront their challenges and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Group Therapy

One of the most valuable aspects of recovery is knowing you’re not alone. Talbot Health Services’ group therapy sessions provide a supportive environment where clients can connect with others facing similar struggles. These sessions not only foster a sense of community but also allow participants to share experiences, learn from each other, and build social support networks.

Case Management

Addiction affects every aspect of a person’s life, from relationships to employment to housing. Talbot Health Services’ dedicated case managers work closely with each client to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and goals. Whether it’s connecting individuals with job resources, helping navigate housing challenges, or coordinating ongoing care, case managers ensure that clients have the support they need every step of the way.

Psychiatry and Medication Management

For those with co-occurring mental health conditions, Talbot Health Services offers the expertise of board-certified psychiatrists to diagnose and treat a range of disorders. Clients can receive medications tailored to their needs, and ongoing medication management ensures that treatment remains effective with minimal side effects. This integrated approach allows for a holistic treatment plan that addresses both addiction and mental health concerns.

Therapeutic Behavioral Services (TBS) and Mental Health Support

Talbot Health Services also provides care for individuals struggling with mental health issues. Their Therapeutic Behavioral Services (TBS) program offers one-on-one support for those experiencing challenging behaviors. TBS specialists work with clients to develop individualized plans to manage these behaviors and improve their overall mental well-being.

Aftercare and Social Support

Recovery doesn’t stop after treatment. Talbot Health Services recognizes the importance of continued support and offers an aftercare program designed to help clients maintain their sobriety. With access to ongoing resources and support, individuals can stay on track long after they’ve completed their initial treatment.

Fostoria’s need for accessible addiction and mental health services has been evident since the closure of Firelands Counseling. Talbot Health Services is a much-needed lifeline, offering comprehensive care to those who need it most. With a wide array of treatment options, from MAT to individual counseling to aftercare, the path to recovery is now more accessible than ever.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit Talbot Health Services at 125 S Main St, Suite 211, Fostoria, OH 44830. Help is now close to home for those ready to take the first step toward recovery.

Fostoria Moves Forward with the Creation of a Municipal Project Manager Role.

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Fostoria Police Officer Brayden Moon Awarded in National Guard Shooting Competition

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Fostoria Police Officer Brayden Moon Awarded in National Guard Shooting Competition

Fostoria’s very own Officer Brayden Moon recently achieved remarkable success in a prestigious National Guard shooting competition. Over the weekend, Officer Moon, who also serves as a National Guard member, participated in the Adjutant General’s Match held at Camp Perry—a highly competitive event that drew 153 participants from across the region.

Officer Moon excelled in the pistol novice class, earning 1st place honors. Even more impressive, he secured 2nd place overall in the entire competition, demonstrating his exceptional skills among a large pool of talented marksmen.

In addition to these remarkable achievements, Officer Moon was awarded the coveted Governor’s Twenty Tab, an accolade given to the top 10 pistol and rifle shooters in the State of Ohio. In this elite group, he claimed the top spot as the best shooter among the top 10.

This recognition highlights Officer Moon’s dedication, discipline, and expertise in both his service to the Fostoria community and his commitment to excellence in the National Guard. The entire community is incredibly proud of his accomplishments.

Congratulations, Officer Moon, and thank you for your outstanding service to both our country and our community!

Keeping Competition Alive: Preventing Monopolies in Small Towns & Enforcing Antitrust Laws

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Small towns often boast a sense of community, where local businesses thrive and residents support one another. However, amidst the charm and camaraderie, there’s a risk that monopolistic tendencies may emerge, stifling competition and limiting consumer choice. Preventing monopolies from taking hold is crucial to maintaining a vibrant and diverse marketplace. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to recognize the signs of monopolistic behavior and implement strategies to keep competition alive in small towns.

Recognizing the Signs:

  1. Limited Options: One of the hallmark signs of a monopoly is a lack of choice for consumers. If a single business dominates a particular market sector in a small town, it can deter new entrants and lead to stagnation.
  2. Price Fixing: Monopolies may engage in price-fixing practices, artificially inflating prices to maximize profits without fear of competition.
  3. Barriers to Entry: High barriers to entry, such as exorbitant licensing fees or zoning regulations, can discourage new businesses from entering the market, further entrenching the dominance of existing players.
  4. Predatory Behavior: Monopolies may engage in predatory tactics to eliminate competitors, such as undercutting prices or engaging in smear campaigns.

Prevention Strategies:

  1. Promote Entrepreneurship: Encourage entrepreneurship by providing support and resources to aspiring business owners. Initiatives such as small business incubators, mentorship programs, and access to low-interest loans can help foster a competitive marketplace.
  2. Diversify Economic Base: Foster a diverse economic base by attracting businesses from a range of industries. A healthy mix of retail, service, and manufacturing sectors can mitigate the risk of monopolies forming in any single sector.
  3. Enforce Antitrust Laws: Ensure that antitrust laws are rigorously enforced to prevent monopolistic behavior. Government agencies should actively monitor market dynamics and intervene when necessary to promote fair competition.
  4. Support Local Businesses: Patronize local businesses and support initiatives that promote a thriving local economy. By choosing to spend money at independently owned establishments, residents can help maintain a competitive marketplace.
  5. Encourage Collaboration: Foster collaboration among local businesses through networking events, cooperative marketing campaigns, and joint ventures. By working together, small businesses can leverage their collective strengths to compete more effectively against larger competitors.

 

Antitrust laws

Antitrust laws, also known as competition laws, are regulations designed to promote and maintain fair competition in the marketplace. These laws aim to prevent anti-competitive practices, such as monopolies, price-fixing, and unfair business practices, which can harm consumers, restrict innovation, and stifle economic growth. Antitrust laws vary by country, but they generally serve similar purposes and principles. Key components of antitrust laws include:

  1. Preventing Monopolies and Oligopolies: Antitrust laws prohibit companies from dominating or controlling a market to the extent that competition is significantly reduced or eliminated. Monopolies and oligopolies can harm consumers by restricting choice and allowing companies to set prices without fear of competition.
  2. Prohibiting Price Fixing and Collusion: Antitrust laws prohibit agreements among competitors to fix prices, allocate markets, or rig bids. These practices harm consumers by artificially inflating prices and reducing competition.
  3. Regulating Mergers and Acquisitions: Antitrust laws regulate mergers and acquisitions to prevent companies from becoming too large or powerful. Authorities assess whether proposed mergers would harm competition and may require companies to divest certain assets or make other concessions to address anti-competitive concerns.
  4. Preventing Predatory Practices: Antitrust laws prohibit predatory pricing, where a company deliberately sets prices below cost to drive competitors out of the market. This practice harms consumers in the long run by reducing competition and allowing the predatory firm to raise prices once competitors are eliminated.
  5. Promoting Consumer Welfare: Antitrust laws are ultimately aimed at promoting consumer welfare by ensuring that markets remain competitive, prices are kept in check, and innovation is encouraged. By fostering competition, antitrust laws aim to maximize consumer choice and drive economic efficiency.

In the United States, the primary federal antitrust laws are the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890, the Clayton Antitrust Act of 1914, and the Federal Trade Commission Act of 1914. These laws are enforced by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Additionally, individual states may have their own antitrust laws and enforcement agencies.

Overall, antitrust laws play a crucial role in safeguarding competitive markets and protecting consumers from anti-competitive behavior. They are essential for promoting economic efficiency, innovation, and fair business practices in modern economies.

Conclusion: In small towns, the preservation of competition is essential for fostering innovation, driving down prices, and ensuring consumer choice. By recognizing the signs of monopolistic behavior and implementing proactive prevention strategies, communities can create an environment where small businesses can thrive and the benefits of a competitive marketplace are enjoyed by all. So, let’s work together to keep competition alive and vibrant in our small towns.

Josh Tolento Pro se v. The City of Fostoria | Ohio Supreme Court Case No. 2023-1360.

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Complaint Document

Public Docket

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OCTOBER 25TH, 2023
Author: Josh Tolento (Editor-in-Chief)
The Fostoria Free Press LTD.

Case No. 2023-1360 Josh Tolento Pro se v. The City of Fostoria was filed and accepted by the Ohio Supreme Court on Oct. 25th, 2023. This type of lawsuit is a Petition for Writ of Mandamus and I am seeking no statutory damages. A petition for a writ of mandamus relating to public records is a legal action that seeks to compel a government agency or official to release or provide access to public records. “Mandamus” is a legal term that refers to a court order that commands a government entity or official to perform a certain duty, often when they have failed to do so or are refusing to comply with a legal obligation.

In the context of public records, many governments have laws that require transparency and open access to government documents, subject to certain exemptions for sensitive or confidential information. When a person or organization believes that a government agency or official is wrongfully withholding public records or is not complying with their legal obligations under open records laws, they may file a petition for a writ of mandamus in court. This petition asks the court to issue a writ of mandamus ordering the government entity or official to release the requested public records.

If the court finds in favor of the petitioner, it will issue a writ of mandamus instructing the government agency or official to release the requested public records. This legal remedy is used to ensure transparency and accountability in government and to protect the public’s right to access information about government actions and decisions.

It has been over 3 weeks since I requested specific financial documents from the City of Fostoria. These documents can easily be printed of or electronically emailed. Case and point, I reached out to the City of Findlay & The City of Tiffin requesting city council minutes & parks and rec. budget reports. I received Findlay’s documents in less than 2 hours, and Tiffin’s in 6 hours. It is very concerning to me that The City of Fostoria has not sent the documents requested.  I do believe that the City is withholding/delaying the release of documents on purpose for an unspecified reason.

Therefore, I have filed an Original Action in Mandamus lawsuit against The City of Fostoria with the following requested remedies:

1. Court ordered release of the following originally requested documents:
BALANCE SHEETS: July 1st – Sep 31st 2023.
GENERAL LEDGER: Jul 1st – Sep 31st 2023.
BANK TRANSACTIONS: July 1st – Sep 31st.

2. Court ordered improvement of The City of Fostoria’s public records availability in a timely manner.

3. The prompt release of ALL financial documents upon future request of the Realtor.

Post Last Updated:  October 25th, 2023

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