Ohio
Three Republicans vie for Ohio 5th District Court of Appeals seat
RICHLAND COUNTY — Three Republican candidates have filed to run for Ohio’s 5th District Court of Appeals, setting up a contest for the six-year judicial term.
The position carries a salary of $187,013 in 2026.
The candidates in the Republican primary include Licking County Municipal Court Judge Matthew George, Chief Legal Counsel to the Governor and Lieutenant Governor Matt Donahue, and attorney Jeff Furr.
Voters will choose one nominee in the Republican primary to advance to the general election.
Matthew George: Licking County judge emphasizes originalist judicial philosophy
Matthew George, 45, currently serves as a judge on the Licking County Municipal Court.
He earned a Bachelor of Arts from Ashland University in 2002 and a Juris Doctor from Washington and Lee University School of Law in 2007.
George said he believes a judge must interpret the Constitution and laws based on their plain meaning as understood at the time of adoption.
“Ohio needs judges who will faithfully apply the law, not rewrite it,” George added. “At every level of government, we have seen activist judges impose their own views instead of following the Constitution and statutes as written.
“When judges depart from that standard, they create uncertainty, inject personal preferences into the law and allow shifting political winds to dictate outcomes,” he said. “That is not justice, and it is not how our system of government was designed to work.”
Experience and judicial philosophy
He first ran for office in 2019, stating he wanted to ensure judges reflect values many Ohioans possess – faith, liberty, limited government and a proper understanding of the constitutional system.
“Those principles continue to guide me today, and they are the reason I am running for the Court of Appeals,” he said.
He added three things differentiate him from his opponents – experience, judicial philosophy and independence.
George noted he is the only candidate who has served on the bench, with 18 years of judicial experience.
“That means I have a proven record of applying the law fairly, treating people with respect and making tough decisions based on facts and the law, not outside pressure,” he said.
He described himself as a consistent, proven conservative and an originalist, stating he has applied that philosophy throughout his career.
George added judges should not act as extensions of political offices.
“I have spent my career as an independent judge and magistrate,” he said. “I will continue to apply the law as written, without influence or agenda.”
“At the end of the day, this race comes down to proven experience, a consistent conservative record and true judicial independence,” he added. “Those are the qualities I bring to the bench.”
Matt Donahue: Legal advisor highlights prosecutorial and appellate experience
Matt Donahue, 46, currently serves as Chief Legal Counsel to the Governor and Lieutenant Governor. Prior to those roles, he was the chief of the Special Prosecutions Section of the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.
He earned a Bachelor of Science cum laude from Bethany College and a Juris Doctor from the University of Dayton School of Law. He has not previously held elected office.
Donahue said he is running for the 5th District Court of Appeals because appellate courts play a critical but often under-recognized role in the justice system.
“It is critical to our state and country that the law is applied with consistently conservative legal principles in order to ensure that legal decisions are fair and just,” he said.
Donahue cites legal experience
He pointed to his experience as a prosecutor and legal advisor as evidence of that commitment.
“I spent over a decade as a prosecutor handling the most difficult of cases at both the county and the Ohio Attorney General’s office,” he said. “I have a lot of experience in the court of appeals. As a special prosecutor, I was involved with criminal cases in every county in this 15-county district.”
Donahue said appellate experience is essential for the position, noting he has written, argued and participated in numerous appeals and original actions in Ohio’s Courts of Appeals and the Ohio Supreme Court.
He also cited his involvement in an original action at the Ohio Supreme Court seeking to require a three-judge panel to follow the law as written.
Donahue said he played a major role in the legal aspects of redistricting for years.
“While as judge I will always follow the law and be impartial. I have a record of conservative legal actions that are unmatched,” he said. “I advised on the Heartbeat bill and was in the room when it was signed. I advised on the signing of constitutional carry and stand-your-ground law.”
He highlighted several professional recognitions, including the Ohio Division of Wildlife Award of Recognition (May 2011), the Attorney General’s Outstanding Achievement Award, Ohio Attorney General’s Office (2013), Meritorious Assistant Prosecutor, Ohio Prosecuting Attorneys Association (2010), among others.
Donahue added his wife, Jill, began her television career at WMFD, and his father-in-law, Gene Del Greco, worked for the Richland County Engineer for many years.
He also noted one of his most prominent endorsements is from Jim Tressel.
Jeff Furr: Attorney emphasizes broad experience and appellate background
Jeff Furr, 65, is an attorney with more than 30 years of legal experience.
He has a Bachelor’s degree in Computer and Information Science from The Ohio State University College of Engineering, as well as a Master of Business Administration, a law degree with honors and a Master of Laws in Taxation, all from Capital University.
Furr previously served two terms on Johnstown City Council.
He said he is seeking the position to give back to the community.
“I have a diverse background with experience in law, technology, business and government which is needed for the Court of Appeals as it hears all types of cases,” Furr said. “My background, experience and education make me the perfect candidate for this office.”
Furr highlights military service and experience
Furr said he is the only candidate with military experience, having served in the Ohio Army National Guard, and is a member of the American Legion.
He described himself as a constitutional conservative who believes courts should interpret — not make — the law. He also emphasized his strong family values, noting he has a spouse, children, and grandchildren.
“I will work hard to make sure people have access to the court system,” he added.
Furr said he has more than 30 endorsements from elected officials within the 5th District.
He has argued before a court one level below the U.S. Supreme Court and is licensed to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court.
He also pointed to his private-sector experience, including more than a decade as a computer programmer, and noted he worked while attending law school and graduated with honors.
“I am not a career politician and will serve only one term,” he added. “I will work hard to make sure people have access to the court system.”
ALLIANCE, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – Wanda Lou Bailey, born August 8, 1940, in Charleston, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2026, in Louisville, Ohio. She was a beloved member of her community, whose life was marked by dedication to her family, faith, and numerous heartfelt pursuits.
A graduate of Poca High School in West Virginia in 1958, Wanda’s early years paved a foundation of commitment that she carried throughout her life. Her professional journey included roles at Big Lots and Quality Farm and Fleet, but it was her role as a pastor’s wife that truly defined much of her life’s work. Alongside her late husband, Rev. Paul Bailey, whom she married on May 31, 1958, Wanda was deeply involved in spiritual and community service until his passing on March 9, 2021.
Wanda’s warm spirit and spicy attitude extended beyond her family and church. She was known for her skills in puzzles, crafts, quilting-each piece a testament to her caring nature. Her memory bears, lovingly crafted from cherished fabrics, stand as small yet profound symbols of her dedication and love. She also volunteered for many years at Canaan Acres Christian Camp, embracing her role as “Camp Nana” with a heart full of grace and kindness, known by all who knew her there.
Wanda is survived by four devoted children: Paula (David) Monteleone, David (Debra) Bailey, Laura (Pastor Mike) Kimball, and Beth Bailey. She also leaves behind nine grandchildren-Jennifer (Nathaniel) Miller, Carrie (Casey) Callarick, Kimberly (Brandy) Brown, Michael (Heidi) McLaughlin, Gregory Bailey, Rev. Cassandra (Bryan) Wynn, Jeremiah (Jaclyn) Kimball, Courtnie (Jon) Eckelberry, and Joshua (Ruby) Vandeborne. Her legacy further extends through twenty-four great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren, as well as extended family who called her mom and nana, continuing her family lines that meant so much to her. Wanda was also sister to Mary McCalister, Clara Honaker, and Archie Quigley. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, William and Rebecca (Vansickle) Quigley, and her husband, Rev. Paul Bailey.
The community will gather to honor Wanda’s life and legacy with a viewing on April 25, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Canaan Acres Campground, located at 8020 Nazarene Ave NE, Louisville, Ohio 44641. A funeral service will follow at 4:00 PM the same day at the campground with her son in law Pastor Mike Kimball officiating. Entombment will take place at Highland Hills Cemetery in Follansbee, West Virginia. on Monday, April 27th the time will be announced at a later date.
Wanda Lou Bailey’s life was one of service, creativity, and boundless love-a true beacon to her family and community. She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege to know her. Memorial contributions can be made in Wanda’s memory to “Camp Nana Fund) in care of Caanan Acres Campground, 8020 Nazarene Ave. NE Louisville, Ohio 44641. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home, Sebring Chapel (330) 938-2526, www.grfuneralhome.com.
Family and friends may view send condolences at Gednetz-Ruzek-Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Service.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Wanda Lou Bailey, please visit our flower store.
EAST LIVERPOOL, Ohio (MyValleyTributes) – Bonnie Sue Reed-Tilton-Hetzel, known lovingly as Bonnie, passed away on Thursday, April 16, 2026, in Cleveland, Ohio, following a sudden unexpected medical emergency.
Bonnie was born on March 27, 1947, in East Liverpool, Ohio.
Bonnie lived a life marked by faith, devotion and steady love. She was a Christian woman, whose life reflected the goodness she believed in and shared with others. Those who knew her best will remember her as faith-filled, loving and generous, a woman who offered encouragement, comfort and warmth wherever she went. She carried herself with a spirit that lifted others and she lived with the kind of purpose that leaves a lasting imprint on family, church and community alike.
Bonnie was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Crystal Tilton (surviving husband Daniel) Sigmon of North Carolina. She was also preceded in death by her mother, Helen Cameron-Reed-Salisbury of East Liverpool, Ohio; her father, Leonard A. Reed of Ohioville, Pennsylvania; her grandparents, Frank and Ethel Hager-Cameron and Ina Duncan-Reed-Sarvey; and her two brothers, L. Frank Reed of Mansfield, Ohio and William J. Reed Sr. of East Liverpool, Ohio. Though these loved ones have gone before her, the bond of family and memory remains strong, and her life was deeply shaped by the generations who came before her and the ones she helped raise with love.
Bonnie graduated from East Liverpool High School in 1965, where she lettered in music, played violin in the orchestra and the bellyra in the band, where they marched in the 1964 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, an achievement that stood as a proud memory of her youth. Her school years reflected her gift for music and her willingness to serve as part of something larger than herself. She later attended Kent State University and continued to live with a spirit of growth, learning and perseverance.
Her work ethic was strong and steady and she was respected for the many ways she contributed to the lives around her. She worked at Hills department store, Carriage Hill Meat Packing Plant and the United States Postal Service offices in Steubenville, Youngstown, Boardman, Austintown, East Liverpool and Calcutta. Later, she became self-employed in construction, roofing and remodeling, where her determination and practical skills were evident to all who knew her. Bonnie understood the value of honest work and she met life’s responsibilities with courage and grace.
Bonnie’s interests reflected her heart for ministry, family and fellowship. She loved delivering the word of God through music ministry, alongside her husband, bringing hope and comfort to nursing homes and prisons. She served her community and church, Lake Milton Baptist Temple, where she felt called to live with love and generosity. She also cherished hosting family dinners, where board games, laughter and togetherness created memories that will continue to bless her family for years to come. She enjoyed travel, especially trips to Florida and visits with family, and she valued church activities and the companionship of her six rescue cats, who were also part of the home she nurtured with tenderness.
She is survived by her devoted, faithful and loving husband, Frank Hetzel, or as she would call him “her Franko”, to whom she married on January 9th 1988; and her sister, Judi Reed-Cameron of Salem, Ohio, who will forever share in the treasured memories of a lifetime of sisterhood.
Bonnie leaves behind her two daughters, T. Renee Tilton-Rardon and her husband, Gene Goldberg of Wellsville, Ohio and April Tilton Large and her husband, David Large of Minerva, Ohio; as well as her son, Aaron Tilton of Lake Milton, Ohio. She also leaves behind her two stepdaughters, Mary Elizabeth Hetzel of Tennessee and Rebecca Hetzel Fowler and her husband, James Fowler of Tennessee; and her stepson, Robert Hetzel and his wife, Amy Hetzel of Wisconsin. Her family circle extends through 15 grandchildren, Nicholas (Ashleigh) Rardon, Zachary (Haylee) Cramer, Cassandra Sigmon, Elijah (Alexis) Sigmon, Joshua Sigmon, Alexa Sigmon, Emma Large, Ivy Large, Elyse Tingler, Danni Tingler, Tristan (Laurel) Fowler, Colton Fowler, Christian (Clarinda) Hetzel, Faith (Jacob) Charpentier and Joy (Aaron) Kamla; as well as five great-grandchildren, Macie Cramer, Damian Rardon, Savannah Rardon, Alleah Cramer and Petra Charpentier. Her family was one of her greatest joys, and she treasured each name, each face, and each precious moment shared together.
Bonnie’s life offers a testimony that speaks plainly and powerfully. A life grounded in Christ does not end in defeat, because the faithful are held in the hands of God. She lived with conviction, served with compassion and loved with an open heart. Her story reminds us that a life of prayer, service and kindness is never wasted. As Maya Angelou wrote, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Bonnie made people feel loved, remembered, welcomed and encouraged and that is a legacy that endures.
Though her earthly journey has ended, Bonnie’s influence remains in the music she shared, the meals she prepared, the prayers she prayed, the work she completed and the family she helped shape. Her life was a blessing and her memory will continue to call others toward faith, gratitude and love. May those who mourn her also celebrate the hope she lived by, trusting that the same God who sustained her in life now holds her in eternal peace.
Romans 8:6
King James Version
“For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.”
Viewing and services will be held on Monday, April 20, 2026, at Lake Milton Baptist Temple, 415 S Pricetown Road, Diamond, Ohio 44412. Viewing will be held from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m., with a service following at 3:00 p.m.
A small burial service for immediate family will be held at the cemetery afterwards.
There will be a dinner held at the church’s hall after funeral services and everyone is welcome to join to celebrate Bonnie’s life.
Arrangements for the family have been provided by Bernard P. Borowski Memorial Home.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bonnie Sue (Reed) Tilton-Hetzel, please visit our floral store.
A television tribute will air Monday, April 20, at the following approximate times: 6:47 a.m. on WYTV, 9:43 a.m. on WKBN, 10:58 a.m. on FOX and 8:12 p.m. on MyYTV. Video will be posted here the day of airing.
Fans got their first glimpse of the 2026-2027 Buckeyes during their spring game earlier today. In contrast to last year’s offensive takeover, it was the defense this year that shined for the most part.
With this, we still saw plenty of Buckeyes that proved that they are ready to play, and ready to play now. Here are three standouts from the Ohio State Spring Game.
Chris Henry Jr.
Coming into the game, most Ohio State fans had already penciled Chris Henry Jr., the No. 1 WR in the 2026 class according to ESPN, as the successor to Carnell Tate in the Buckeye offense.
Anyone that didn’t, probably should now.
The freshman wideout hauled in 4 passes for 96 yards, including a 40-yard touchdown catch in the second quarter.
Playing all snaps on the outside, Henry Jr. looked very poised, showcasing smooth route running and breakaway speed. The connection between him and another Buckeye on this list was the highlight of the offense for the day. There is no doubt he should be an immediate contributor in this Ohio State offense.
Tavien St. Clair
After a subpar showing at the spring game last year, Tavien St. Clair showed flashes of the top-10 recruit he was just two years ago.
He dazzled early with two big completions to Chris Henry Jr., showing off his big arm in the process.
His touchdown pass to Henry Jr. was a beautiful look off from St. Clair, who launched it right to the right pylon to find the freshman wideout.
It was not all sunshine and rainbows for St. Clair on the day though, as he was forced into a couple three-and-outs as well as a few balls that could have been intercepted.
All in all, all tools are there for St. Clair to be great when his number is called, and another year of growth under Julian Sayin should help him get there.
Beau Atkinson
Buckeye fans were surprised when Beau Atkinson was basically a non-factor on the defensive line a season ago, as the hype around him coming from North Carolina was immense.
The player they expected to see last year was on full display, as the senior finished the day with a sack and an interception off a Julian Sayin batted ball at the line of scrimmage.
His high motor was one to watch early, as his get-off and confidence at the position looked vastly improved from last year. He is one to seriously watch to be the starter next to Kenyatta Jackson Jr. come September.
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