Firefighters get grant

Firefighters get grant

CAMPBELL — The Campbell Fire Department has received a $52,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security through its Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, said U.S. Sen. George V. Voinovich of Cleveland, R-Ohio, a member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. The money will be used to buy 10 new air packs and air bottles for the fire department, said Mayor John Dill.

Austintown house fire

AUSTINTOWN — A problem with a fireplace at the home of John Ray Jr., 4275 Burkey Road, caused a fire in the wall behind the fireplace early Sunday morning, causing $18,000 in damage. Firefighters arrived at the home at 4:52 a.m. and had to remove pieces of the chimney to get into the area that was on fire, Chief Andrew Frost said. The fire was under control after about 90 minutes. Firefighter Joe Garcia suffered a knee injury and was treated at an area hospital.

Officer of the year

HOWLAND — Patrol Officer Jeffrey A. Spatar, a five-year veteran of the police department, has been named 2007 Officer of the Year. Police Chief Paul Monroe said Spatar, 36, of Howland, has shown dedication and a positive attitude and exemplifies the professional image of a police officer. Spatar, a Girard High School graduate, and his wife, Leslie, have a son.