By Charlie Boss, The Columbus Dispatch, Ohio Feb. 14--Before winter weather arrived in central Ohio, the Hamilton schools unexpectedly closed on Feb. 2, saying too many employees and students had taken ill.

By Andrea Yorke, The Journal-News, Hamilton, Ohio Aug. 15--BUTLER COUNTY -- After missing the state's excellent rating by one point the past two years, Fairfield City School District's first excellent rating is expected to be official today.

By Lisa A. Bernard, The Journal-News, Hamilton, Ohio Feb. 22--HAMILTON -- Hamilton officials are calling a telecommunications agreement -- recently criticized by some leaders in Butler County -- a well-crafted deal and a stepping stone for local job growth.

By Chris Dumond, The Journal-News, Hamilton, Ohio Jan. 4--OVERPECK -- St. Clair Township trustees sided with landowners over county transportation officials Tuesday night in a decision those officials say could interfere with the future extension of Ohio 63.