How to celebrate Labor Day during a period of high unemployment

by Charles E. Reier, MD, and Rebecca A. Reier

Labor Day has become a meaningless holiday for approximately 20-40 million who are unemployed, underemployed or have dropped from the American labor force. On the other hand for working Americans in a compassionate society, this problem takes on an even greater meaning since more and more of their tax dollars must provide food, shelter and medical care for this increasingly large group of people. How well is our social safety net working? Obama says 1 in 8 Americans are hungry – and that food banks are low on supplies.

Unfortunately the cause of our chronically increasing unemployment/underemployment seems to have eluded the economic and political leaders of both parties. China, through currency manipulation and unfair trade (masquerading as beneficial or “free trade”) has taken over 2 trillion dollars out of the paychecks of American workers. In the process they have laid waste to the physical and intellectual skills of hundreds of legitimate American industries. No surprise then that the millions of Americans willing to work are having their debts labeled as sub-prime when indeed the term sub-prime should be applied to their opportunities for the employment necessary to pay their debts.

How is China using its huge largess of American dollars? In the United Nations and elsewhere they obstruct worldwide efforts to limit Iran’s nuclear capabilities. On the high seas China’s Sec. of Navy suggests that they and the United States should divide the Pacific on a line through the Hawaiian Islands while Chinese nuclear subs lie off the coast of South Korea. Elsewhere the Chinese are busily locking up contracts for Iraqi oil and the world’s largest reserve of copper in Afghanistan - the very land stained by the blood of our brave American troops.

In the area of economics, a deputy of the Peoples Bank of China held little prospect for rapid appreciation of the Yuan. This move is absolutely essential for balancing and making fair the trade between the two countries. The deputy further states “the currency doesn’t have a key role in rebalancing bilateral trade between the US and China”. This statement is equivalent to stating that accurate accounting of money is not essential in playing a game of Monopoly.

The administration is already moving on this issue but needs encouragement and support. Your communication will also send a message to Chinese leaders that in trade they have lost the status of a “poor under-developed country” that needs our assistance. More importantly Chinese leaders must know that our trade representatives are backed by the full force of the American working public.

Although the leading force on this issue has been Senator Charles Schumer (D) of New York, it is time to let our congressional leaders know that the issue of fair trade with China is a bipartisan issue essential to the survival of our economy. Celebrate Labor Day by contacting your congressional representatives with the message: Free trade with China must be FAIR trade.

Buck's Blog celebreates its first anniversary

Click on the badge to read ABM's one year wrap-up, including a thank you to Darke County.



Funny update: our friend Andrew is on TV right now for the Channel 22 MDA telethon - and he agreed to enter a hot-wing eating contest to raise money for MDA. Andrew was all smiles and talking a big game before the contest, but he looked a little sweaty and disturbed once it got started (see below the jump). Way to go Andrew!

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EH has a question

I remember that Charlie Fry built a number of houses in Greenville in the 1950s. Does anyone remember where the warehouse in the photo was located?

DR says: " It was in the alley parallel to Water St. in the first block off North Broadway. As I recall the access was by heading toward the trestle and then turning left and the building was on the right. Don’t know if it is still there or not. As a kid I worked for them one summer."

Palestine community garage sale on Labor Day

On Labor Day the Palestine Community will be having their annual community garage sale. Additionally there is the Tractor Pull at the Park beginning at 10:00 am; located on US Rt 36 just West of town; admission paid at the gate. The Palestine Church of Christ will be serving lunch and ice-cream as a fundraiser at the church located at 209 Lynn St staring at 11:00 am. All proceeds go to the Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Department. The Menu includes: Sandwiches (Hot Dogs, Coney Dogs, BBQ, Hot Chicken ), Side Items (baked beans, potato salad, pasta salad, coleslaw, chips), Desserts (pies, cakes, ice-cream). Food and supplies were all donated by the members of the Palestine Church who for over 25 years have held the Labor-Day fundraiser for their community emergency first-responders.

The History of Labor Day

Labor Day: How it Came About; What it Means
Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.

Founder of Labor Day
More than 100 years after the first Labor Day observance, there is still some doubt as to who first proposed the holiday for workers. Some records show that Peter J. McGuire, general secretary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and a cofounder of the American Federation of Labor, was first in suggesting a day to honor those "who from rude nature have delved and carved all the grandeur we behold." But Peter McGuire's place in Labor Day history has not gone unchallenged. Many believe that Matthew Maguire, a machinist, not Peter McGuire, founded the holiday. Recent research seems to support the contention that Matthew Maguire, later the secretary of Local 344 of the International Association of Machinists in Paterson, N.J., proposed the holiday in 1882 while serving as secretary of the Central Labor Union in New York. What is clear is that the Central Labor Union adopted a Labor Day proposal and appointed a committee to plan a demonstration and picnic.

The First Labor Day
The first Labor Day holiday was celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City, in accordance with the plans of the Central Labor Union. The Central Labor Union held its second Labor Day holiday just a year later, on September 5, 1883. In 1884 the first Monday in September was selected as the holiday, as originally proposed, and the Central Labor Union urged similar organizations in other cities to follow the example of New York and celebrate a "workingmen's holiday" on that date. The idea spread with the growth of labor organizations, and in 1885 Labor Day was celebrated in many industrial centers of the country.

Labor Day Legislation
Through the years the nation gave increasing emphasis to Labor Day. The first governmental recognition came through municipal ordinances passed during 1885 and 1886. From them developed the movement to secure state legislation. The first state bill was introduced into the New York legislature, but the first to become law was passed by Oregon on February 21, 1887. During the year four more states — Colorado, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York — created the Labor Day holiday by legislative enactment. By the end of the decade Connecticut, Nebraska, and Pennsylvania had followed suit. By 1894, 23 other states had adopted the holiday in honor of workers, and on June 28 of that year, Congress passed an act making the first Monday in September of each year a legal holiday in the District of Columbia and the territories.

A Nationwide Holiday
The form that the observance and celebration of Labor Day should take were outlined in the first proposal of the holiday — a street parade to exhibit to the public "the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations" of the community, followed by a festival for the recreation and amusement of the workers and their families. This became the pattern for the celebrations of Labor Day. Speeches by prominent men and women were introduced later, as more emphasis was placed upon the economic and civic significance of the holiday. Still later, by a resolution of the American Federation of Labor convention of 1909, the Sunday preceding Labor Day was adopted as Labor Sunday and dedicated to the spiritual and educational aspects of the labor movement. The character of the Labor Day celebration has undergone a change in recent years, especially in large industrial centers where mass displays and huge parades have proved a problem. This change, however, is more a shift in emphasis and medium of expression. Labor Day addresses by leading union officials, industrialists, educators, clerics and government officials are given wide coverage in newspapers, radio, and television. The vital force of labor added materially to the highest standard of living and the greatest production the world has ever known and has brought us closer to the realization of our traditional ideals of economic and political democracy. It is appropriate, therefore, that the nation pay tribute on Labor Day to the creator of so much of the nation's strength, freedom, and leadership — the American worker.

Huge fire at KTM Motorcycles in Phillipsburg

The smoke from this fire was seen as far away as Arcanum. [snapshot forwarded by Jojo]

Versailles volleyball star Megan Campbell is now playing for U.D.

Megan helped the University of Dayton beat Northern Iowa Friday in a battle of ranked teams. Great job Megan! Here is the box score.

DARKE COUNTY HEALTH FAIR set for OCTOBER 19, 2010

Mark your calendars! The Darke County Health Fair Committee is excited to announce the upcoming 2010 Darke County Health Fair. The 36th Annual Darke County Health Fair will be Tuesday, October 19, 2010, in the Youth Building at Darke County Fairgrounds on State Route 49, Greenville, Ohio. Hours will be from 8am to 4:30 pm. The 2010 Health Fair, open to people of all ages, will feature over 40 different displays and many free health screenings. Activities this year:

• There will be educational offerings throughout the morning
• Kitchenaid will give demonstrations on “Cooking Healthy”
• Wayne HealthCare Physical Therapy will get attendes moving with “Fitness Made Fun”
• Flu Shots will be available
• Wayne HealthCares’s physicians will have a booth
• Play “BINGO” and win a chance to win a New Flat Screen TV or a New Kitchenaid Mixer!!!

As always, the health fair will be offering several tests: A Blood Chemistry Profile, $30.00; TSH, $25.00; Iron, $15; PSA, $30; Flu Shots, $20; and a Mammogram, $182.41. Free health checks include blood pressure, diabetes screening, visual acuity, height and weight, abnormalities in urine, nutrition screening, hearing tests, spinal-postural analysis and bone density. For transportation, call 547-1811(outside of Greenville with 24-hr notice) or 548-6118, inside Greenville.

Darke County Health Fair Committee Members are Mike Pressnall, Dr. James Appleman, Cindy Scott, Sharon Warren, Jim Beyke, Carol Fourman, Bonnie Wagner and Kelly Sanning.

Beware of telephone bank scam

From the Darke County Sheriff: We have been receiving multiple reports of telephone scams this evening, most of which are automated recordings stating they are from Greenville National Bank. It is important that when you get these scams calls or any scam call, not to release any of your personal information. There is no need to contact the Sheriff's Office, unless you have given out personal information. [via DCSO facebook page]

Matt Light appears in the Wall Street Journal

Oops - talk about youthful indiscretions! What was Matt Light thinking?

[* just kidding, ok Matt? original wsj article is here]

2010 TREATY CITY INVITATIONAL

Top Local Performers: Junior high girls 3k: Hannah Wenig (VERS), 13:28.01 (12), Liz Knapke (VERS), 13:40.29 (20), Chloe McKinney (GRE), 13:48.49 (25), Versailles team - 3rd overall; Junior high boys 3k: Bailey Hartle (GRE), 12:16.69 (31); Girls 5k reserve: Bailey Marshal (VERS): 22:44.09 (11), Megan Keiser (VERS), 23:35.15 (31), Cheyann Beam (GRE), 23.50.85 (34), Versailles team - 6th overall; Boys 5k reserve: Aaron Eilerman (VERS), 19:43.53 (56).

Girls varsity 5k White Divison: Chloe Warvel (GRE), 20:17.86 (19), Kristen Karns (GRE), 22:05.24 (69), Nicole Raffel (GRE), 22:34.93 (87); Girls varsity 5k Green Division: Tammy Berger (VERS), 18:51.73 (1), Natalie Grilliot (VERS), 20:44.80 (16), Samantha Shook (ANS), 21:01.72 (26), Nicole Frantz (VERS), 21:04.54 (27), Carrie Grilliot (VERS), 21:22.09 (33), Margaret Prakel (VERS), 21:34.14 (35), Sam Gehret (VERS), 21:46.72 (43), Chasity Fuson (ARC), 22:00.65 (48), Brooke Pothast (VERS), 22:08.03 (49), Kelly Murphy (VERS), 22:08.03 (50), Haley Gray (FM), 22:09.32 (51), Jennifer Stone (ANS), 22:20.42 (57), Lauren Gehret (VERS), 22:24.91 (60), Allison Hildebrand (FM), 22:28.22 (61), Allison Snider (FM), 22:38.02 (63), Versailles team - 4th.

Boys varsity 5K White Division: Andrew Cox (GRE), 17:33.56 (35), Drew Burns (GRE), 18:28.86 (81), Justin Trick (GRE), 19:31.80 (122), Landon Bruner (GRE), 19:32.82 (123); Boys varsity 5k Green Division: Samuel Prakel (VERS), 16:51.15 (4), Clayton Murphy (TV), 16:59.31 (7), Colby Morris (TV), 18:15.91 (45), Sam Subler (VERS), 18:17.79 (46), Seth Thomas (TV), 18:19.72 (47), Michael Wenig (VERS), 18:27.86 (54), Garret Rose (VERS), 18:38.71 (65), Kaleb Chowning (TV), 18:39.31 (66), Versailles team - 7th, Tri-Village team - 8th.

The Greenville boys and girls cross country teams are gearing up for their big meet this Saturday, September 4th, 2010 —the Treaty City Cross Country Invitational.

If you have never been out by the Greenville Park for this annual event – tomorrow is your chance to do so. Over 1000 high school athletes will descend upon the park on this invitational. Chairman, Ed Porter stated that over 80 teams are scheduled to participate- which is up 8 teams from last year.

The event is a fundraiser for the Greenville Athletic Department, Greenville Athletic Boosters, as well as the Cross Country Team. The club also provides many of the volunteers for the race. Porter said the volunteers are key to the race being successful. There have been people already helping out, getting the course in race shape, and will be doing many different things during the day, including parking. The city’s parks department has also been hard at work getting the grounds around the park ready for the runners.

Please come out and support the Greenville Athletic Booster Concession Stand Located next to the Masonic Temple Lodge. A wide variety of food will be available including marinated chicken breast, shredded chicken and grilled cheeseburgers. The Greenville Cross Country Team will be selling T-Shirts as well.

Versailles scores 55 in blowout of Graham

The Versailles Tigers were put to the task of stopping a Graham rushing attack that was lead by Indiana Recruit Nick Van Hoose. Van Hoose had been timed in the 40 at 4.37 and had big runs against the Tigers in last years game that ended 28-21. The key was not to let Van Hoose get loose. Although Van Hoose would score 3 times on the night, only one would be on the offensive side of the ball.

The Versailles Tigers wasted no time getting on the scoreboard against the Graham Falcons. Damian Winner found Mitchell Campbell on the opening drive to put the Tigers up 7-0. Once the Tigers stopped Graham, Damian Winner would throw a pass in Van Hoose’s direction, and he would take it 80 yards to tie the game at 7.

The Tigers offense was machine like though and would score often in the first half building a 35-14 halftime lead. Graham would score on a 70 yard run by Van Hoose. Versailles used a more balanced team effort getting Cambell, Jordan Monnin and Winner into the endzone.

The second half was almost all Versailles with Ethan Bruns and Aaron McNeilen scoring on passes from Winner. Backup quarterback Kyle Niekamp would score on a 1 yard run that was set up by a fumble that Mike Rutshilling returned to the 1 yard line. Graham would score the final points of the night on the ensuing kickoff when Van Hoose took it 87 yards for the score.

The whole fourth quarter was played by various backups. The Tigers gave valuable Friday night game experience to the younger players. The Backups were able to hold Graham in check, and were able to put together a couple drives that ended in Graham territory. Damian Winner came back into the game on the final Tiger possession to take the victory formation.

The Tigers racked up 509 total yards for the game, 370 passing and 139 yards rushing. Damian Winner passed for over 300 yards and ran for 98. Ethan Bruns led the receivers with 10 catches for 128 yards. Graham was held to 141 total yards with Van Hoose getting 101 rushing on 21 carries, 70 of those coming on 1 carry.

Versailles welcomes Fort Recovery to Hole Field this coming Friday night. The Tigers defeated the Indians at Fort Recovery last year in a rain storm. The Indians come into the game at 1-1 defeating Mississinawa Valley in week 1.

Game summary by tigerballonline.net, which also has great photo and video coverage of the game.

Junior quarterback Zach Niekamp fighting for extra yardage

Marco's Pizza pick'em winner for Week 2: The Goose

The Goose is the winner of the Marco's Pizza pick'em challenge for Week 2, picking all 6 county games correctly and having the closest tie-breaker prediction for the Greenville/Tipp game.

The Goose predicted a total of 34 points in the Greenville game that ended 21-0.

Runners-up include Norman Christian and tigerballonline.net, who each picked all 6 games correctly for the second week in a row. Becky Clifton and Tami Liette also picked all the games correctly this week.

DAR Promotes Constitution Week Awareness

Friday, September 17, 2010, begins the national celebration of Constitution Week. The weeklong commemoration of America’s most important document is one of our country’s least known official observances. Our Constitution stands as a testament to the tenacity of Americans throughout history to maintain their liberties and freedom, and to ensure those unalienable rights to every American.

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Friday night football: week 2

Miami East 23, Arcanum 0
Tippecanoe 21, Greenville 0
Mississinawa 0, Tri-County North 14
Versailles 55, Graham 21
Ansonia 54, Twin Valley South 7
Bradford 41, National Trail 20

[photo by Cherie Frost]

Advocate purchased by Ohio Community Media, LLC

Details here.

Fourth annual Illumination features Newsboys and Fireflight

Illumination Ministries will soon bring its fourth annual contemporary Christian music event to the Darke County Fairgrounds. On Sept. 19, a full day of family fun and music will encompass the fairgrounds offering something for everyone. The highlight of the day will be a concert featuring the Newsboys, Fireflight and 1000 Generations in front of the Grandstand at 6 p.m. Gates open at 5 p.m.

Also returning to the main stage will be the Splat Experience. Be inspired as the Splat Experience transforms a blank canvas into a beautiful work of art in the span of one song. This will be the third year for the Splat Experience to grace the stage at Illumination and in the previous years, audiences have been thrilled and captivated by this ministry.

In addition to the stellar line-up of artists on the main stage, Illumination will also feature a Coffeehouse starting at noon with Stacey Davidson, Ansonia Church of God Worship Band, I Am Victorious, Live 4:1, Blank Pages, Altar Addicts, Adelee Gates, Reece Lincoln and Adam Cappa.

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Faults and all (by Mike Stegall)

A couple of months ago I was invited to attend a seminar in Dayton on how to be a successful politician. They were going to tell me how to best get my message across, how to present myself, how to say something without saying anything, and a host of other “suggestions” to make each candidate successful. I chose not to go.

Not because I think I am some super politician or anything like that, but it just seemed to hit me wrong. Maybe I am all wet here, but I believe that seminars like this are what are wrong with politics. I am sure that they can make you a better politician, but is that what we all want? I don’t. Politicians are what we are getting now, and that isn’t working out too well now is it?

I want to see our elected officials as they are, not polished and primped and elevated into something they are not. I think people deserve to see us, faults and all, as we truly are. If we can’t get our message out by ourselves, then how can we possibly hope to govern?

If I can’t tell you how I am going to vote in simple language, how will you know who I am? If you meet me on the street or call me on the phone with a question, you don’t want a stock political answer, you want my answer. I want you to see me not as a slick politician, (I really hate that word!) but as an elected official who is just like you. I may not be as polished as some like, nor does my personality fit with everyone. That’s okay. This is me, and that is what you are going to get.

If all politicians would just be themselves, we would all be better off. It seems now that you have to be “packaged” in order to get elected. Packaged is what we have been getting for too long now. We really don’t know these people, do we? The farther up the political ladder we go, the more our “people” think we need to change in order to be elected. That’s a real problem for me. I want to know who I am voting for, not some made up hack that is nothing like he is portrayed.

Example? I give you John Edwards! This guy was nothing like he was portrayed by his people and the media. He was a shyster who his “people” knew was a shyster, but they allowed him to go on, encouraged him actually to fool everyone because they wanted that power he would get as President. If John Edwards would have been himself, he would never have been elected to anything, and yet his “packaging” got him within a whisker of the presidency! That’s just scary and wrong.

I write these papers so hopefully, you will get to know me better. The punctuation may be wrong, and some words may be misspelled, but I am letting you in on what I believe. I am trying to let all of Darke County see who I am and what I believe. This is what I am. The things I write are what I believe. You may like it, you may not, and that’s fine with me. I am just trying to give you a better look at me and let you have an insight as to how I will be as commissioner. You deserve that. You deserve to see me as I am, faults and all.

Extension newsletter: The Upper Midwest Food, Fuel and Fiber Network Tour

Greetings from Purdue! No I haven’t fled across the border; I’m attending the Upper Midwest Food, Fuel and Fiber Network Tour. Don’t worry, I will be back in time to watch the Bucks game on Thursday. The tour this year is highlighting research and innovation in biofuels production, energy conservation, and crop production. There is too much to discuss from the trip in this short article but I'll try to highlight some of the most applicable presentations for Darke County.

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Another one bites the dust

Here's a view nobody in Greenville has seen for decades. The back of the courthouse is now visible as you approach on West Fourth Street because the adjacent building on West Fourth (aka the Albrecht Building) has been torn down.

Report from Friday's Ad Hoc Committee meeting (by John Liette)

The Greenville City Council Ad Hoc committee met once again to discuss a potential proposal to council to extend current state law so that no one who has to register with the county sheriff as a result of a sexual offense can establish residence within 1500 feet of a school, licensed day care or park. This would be an increase in the current 1000 feet buffer that currently exists per state law.

Chairman Todd Oliver called the meeting to order and began the meeting with an opportunity for members of the public in attendance to address council regarding the issue. This allowed several individuals to speak openly and in some cases emotionally on their feelings on the issue.

Several citizens then spoke, voicing concerns over Good Samaritan Home expanding further and further into the neighborhood, the impact of the population’s sexual offender ratio rising, bringing offenders from all over the state into our community and John Graham generating revenue from it.

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DB sent these photos from his trip to NYC

The new WTC building is on the left ...

Two more sales

Garage Sale: Cleaning out 50 year plus of "STUFF" from basement, attic, garage and shed plus some. Antiques, newer things, clothes, canning jars, crocks, tools, toys, water bed, TV, crafting items, tapes, CDS, cassette tapes, silk flowers, lots of "whats its??" Much, Much more. 4434 Rossburg-Lightsvills Rd. (west edge of Rossburg, follow the signs). Sat.,Sun.,Mon. September 4,5,6. 9AM to 6PM.

Multi-family Yard Sale: Route 36 West. Half way between Rt. 121 and Palestine" Friday, Sept. 3- Monday, Sept. 6, 10-5

Marco's pick'em challenge: Week 2

Here are the games for Week 2: Mississinawa at Tri-County North; Arcanum at Miami East; Greenville vs. Tipp City; Versailles vs. Graham; Bradford at National Trail; Ansonia at Twin Valley South. The tiebreaker this week will be total points in the Greenville/Tipp game.

Send in your 6 picks, plus the tiebreaker, to: darkejournal@gmail.com. Winner gets bragging rights and a large, one-topping pizza from the Greenville Marco's.

Downtown Buckeye Bash - September 25th

Saturday, September 25, Eastern Michigan vs. Ohio State

East Fifth Street Behind The Palace Building

11:00 am - 5:00 pm, Rain or Shine

Bring your family and lawn chairs to enjoy: Big Screen TV’s, Chili Cook-Off, Beer Tent, Taste Of Downtown, Best Dressed Buckeye Family, Kids Games, OSU vs Indiana Game Tickets Raffle, Reverse Raffle (for pre-sale tickets only), and 50/50 Drawing. Free Admission! Event questions, please contact Main Street Greenville at 937-548-4998.

Meeting to Hear Mike Stegall, Candidate for Darke County Commissioner, Open to the Public

The Darke County Republican Women’s Club will meet on Monday, September 13 at the Brethren Community Center. The speaker will be Michael Stegall, the Republican candidate for Darke County Commissioner. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Reservations are required for those wishing to have dinner, please call Wavelene Denniston at 547-6477 or e-mail to: wdenniston@woh.rr.com by September 9. However, the public is welcome to hear Mr. Stegall speak, and may come at 7:00 p.m. without reservations.

For further information, please call President Margaret Muhlenkamp at 937-548-7172.

My opinion: the sex offender houses are indefensible (by DJ)

John Graham organized a forum today to discuss sex offenders living in Greenville. He invited me to the event. I decided not to go, in part because the event was titled: "Sex Offender Danger in Greenville?" and subtitled: "Myths and Facts About Sex Offenders." I have done my own research on these topics, and I have listened to both sides debate the issues.

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William C. Portman passes away

Republican candidate for U.S. Senate from Ohio, Rob Portman's father (William C.Portman) has died. He was 88 and a well-known businessman from Cincinnati. Condolences can be mailed to: Rob and Jane Portman, P.O. Box 39, Terrace Park Drive, Oh. 45174 [submitted by B.M.]

New Madison Library Funding Meeting - September 16th

The Trustees of New Madison Public Library will hold a public meeting to discuss library funding on Thursday, September 16 at 7 p.m. The meeting will be held at the library, 142 South Main Street in New Madison. State funding for libraries has decreased by 25% since 2005, and additional cuts are possible in 2011. The trustees are exploring every option for securing additional funding in order to maintain the facility and ensure quality library services for the community. One option under consideration is a low millage property tax levy that would be brought before voters in the Tri-Village School District in 2011. Additionally, a county-wide library support levy is being discussed. Comments or questions related to either option, or library funding in general, are welcome at the September 16 meeting. Comments or questions may also be submitted in writing before the meeting (NMPL, PO Box 32, New Madison, 45346) or shared in person with any library trustee or the library director, Ann Riegle-Coursey. Please call 996-1741 for more information.

Days of Harvest Lil Miss & Mr. Contest Accepting Contestants

The Annual Days of Harvest Lil Miss and Mr Contest will be held on Saturday, September 25 in downtown Greenville at 11:00 am. Entries from 3-5 year olds and 6-7 year olds that live in Darke County are being accepted.

This year’s theme is “Autumn Fun.” Entry forms for the contest can be picked up at Bread of Life Bookstore, Main Street Greenville or online at www.downtowngreenville.org. Deadline to register is Wednesday, September 22.

Last year’s Lil Miss & Mr Competition

Rossburg Fire Department Pancake Breakfast - September 11th

The Rossburg Fire Dept will be hosting an all you can eat pancake breakfast. The meal will include pancakes-all you can eat, scrambled eggs-all you can eat, sausage patty, toast and drink.

Cost for the meal is $6.00 with discounted rates for half meals. Come join us for breakfast and catch a glimpse of your favorite firefighter cooking and cleaning!

COFFEEHOUSE SERIES OPENS WITH ACOUSTIC DUO GARCIA AND SCOTT

Darke County Center for the Arts Coffeehouse Series opens on Thursday, September 16 with a performance by musical duo Garcia and Scott at Montage Cafe in downtown Greenville. Former Miss South Carolina Dalia Garcia is an award-winning singer/songwriter who has shared the stage with world-class performers at diverse noteworthy venues such as Carnegie Hall and Radio City Music Hall. Her husband, Gary Scott, a drummer turned guitar player as well as a singer/songwriter, boasts over twenty years of successful experience in the professional music business. The acoustic power duo’s performance begins at 7 p.m.

DCCA’s Coffeehouse Series offers performances in a casual, intimate setting; food and drink will be available for purchase prior to the concert as well as at intermission. “By offering excellent artists performing in a socially comfortable atmosphere, DCCA hopes to attract a broad range of music lovers who’ll bring their families and friends for a relaxing evening of great entertainment,” said DCCA Artistic Director Keith Rawlins.

The Coffeehouse Series is sponsored by Tom and Julie Graber, Steve and Eileen Litchfield, and Rodney Oda. DCCA also receives funding from Harry D. and Esther Stephens Memorial, Lydia E. Schaurer Memorial Trust Fund, and Ketrow Foundation. In addition, the Ohio Arts Council helps fund Darke County Center for the Arts with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence, and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans.

Tickets for the performance by Garcia and Scott are $10, and can be reserved by contacting DCCA at 937-547-0908 or dcca@centerforarts.net or purchased at DCCA’s office at Greenville Public Library. Tickets will also be available at the door if any remain by showtime.

Grief Support Classes Offered

It may be hard for you to feel optimistic about the future right now. If you’ve lost a spouse, child, family member or friend, you’ve probably found there are not many people who understand the deep hurt you feel. This can be a confusing time when you feel isolated and have many questions about things you’ve never faced before. Grief support helps you face the challenges and move toward rebuilding your life.

EUM Church and Braund Funeral Home are partnering together to offer GriefShare, ™ a nationally known grief support curriculum. Eric Fee, owner of Braund Funeral Home, will be the facilitator of the group and has over 15 years experience in bereavement. “Loss is such a bottomless feeling, and when you are going through it you feel as though it may last forever” indicates Fee. GriefShare ™ is a twelve week course covering many topics and side effects of loss and bereavement. Each class is individual and the group can be joined at anytime, although each week builds on the next to encourage wholeness and healing.

“It doesn’t matter what type of loss you’ve encountered or when it has affected your life. If you are struggling, don’t struggle alone. I encourage you to get information to spur your healing and find some support to help you navigate through your hurt” affirms Fee. Classes begin on Wednesday, September 15h at 6:30 in Suite 201 of The Palace. For more information call Eric Fee of Braund Funeral Home at 996-1051, or to sign up visit www.eumchurch.org and check out the support group connection opportunities under the ‘Learn and Grow’ tab. Or simply call the church office at 548-3211 and ask for Janie. Registration is appreciated, but not required.

Boundaries Class Offered at EUM Church

Have you ever found yourself wondering: “Can I set limits and still be a loving person? How do I answer someone who wants my time, love, energy or money? Why do I feel guilty when I consider setting boundaries?” In this Gold Medallion Award-winning book, Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend give you answers to these tough questions and more, and show you how to set healthy boundaries with your parents, spouse, children, friends, coworkers, and even yourself. These sessions present the importance of developing healthy boundaries in order to maintain healthy relationships. This course is for those already in healthy situations who would like to have a better sense of “yes” and “no”, as well as those who are in great need of setting healthy boundaries. Some will discover painful realities about their lives – about the family they grew up in, about present relationships, about addictive behaviors, about codependency – and will be challenged to accept personal responsibility and ownership in order to experience new freedom.

Boundaries is a unique journey – of growth, of challenge to change, of problem solving, of recovery, of hope. Offering practical help and encouragement to all who seek a healthy, balanced life, Boundaries presents insight and wisdom for those seeking to deal with their inability to say no. Each of the nine Boundaries sessions contains a video presentation by Drs. Cloud and Townsend. It's the centerpiece for insights, exercises, and spirited group discussion that can profoundly improve the quality of your relationships in every sphere of life---marriage, family, friendships, church, and the workplace.

Boundaries starts on Wednesday, September 15th at 6:30 PM at the Downtown Campus of EUM Church located on the corner of Devor and Wayne. Everyone is welcome – you don’t need to belong to EUM Church or any other church in order to attend. For more information or to sign-up, please visit our website at www.eumchurch.org and check out our support group connection opportunities under the ‘Learn and Grow’ tab. Or simply call the church office and ask for Janie at 548-3211. Registrations are appreciated but not required.

President/CEO of Greenville Technology passed away Wednesday

Shuji “Shu” Hayashi, age 50 of Greenville, Ohio passed away at 1:40 A.M. Wednesday September 1, 2010 at Hospice of Dayton following a 2 month struggle with cancer. Mr. Hayashi was born November 26, 1959 in Kobe City, Japan. He is the son of Reiko Hayashi of Kobe City, Japan and the late Yukio Hayashi.

Shu had been President and CEO of Greenville Technology, Inc. since April 2006, leading the company to a position as one of Honda of America’s significant supplier of automotive parts. Prior to coming to Greenville, Mr. Hayashi had been employed by Moriroku Technology, in Japan since 1982.

In addition to his mother, Mr. Hayashi is survived by his wife Yukari, daughters Misato and Chihiro of Greenville and a sister Miki.

The family will receive friends on Saturday September 4, 2010 from 11 A.M. until 2 P.M. in the Zechar Bailey Funeral Home Greenville, Ohio.

It is the wishes of the family that Memorial Contributions be given to the Greenville City Schools in Mr. Hayashi’s memory.

Condolences for the family may be sent to www.zecharbailey.com.

3 Family garage sales

One day only, Thursday Sept. 2nd. Location: three houses on corner of E. Harmon & Meadow Lane. 9 to 5 today.

Treaty City Amateur Radio Assoc. To Meet September 2

The Treaty City Amateur Radio Association will be holding their monthly meeting at 7:30pm on Thursday, September 2 at the Studebaker School on Heritage Drive in Greenville. The TCARA is one of the oldest Amateur Radio clubs in Ohio, if not the nation.

If you've seen the movies "Contact" or "High Frequency," you may have seen a little bit of "Ham" Radio on the screen. Ham Radio is a hobby, which has been around since the very beginnings of wireless communication, and has provided experimenters and hobbyists the avenue that has lead to many technological developments we use today. Wireless computer networks, radio and television broadcasting, cellular telephones, and digital two-way radio are just a few of the modern technologies influenced by Ham Radio.

Hams enjoy meeting friends from all over the world for casual chats, contests are always running on the weekends to compete for the most contacts made, and Hams also are very active in emergency communications. Whether spotting storm cells for the National Weather Service, or listening to the shortwave radio hoping to hear someone on the opposite side of the globe, Ham Radio provides enjoyment for people of all ages.

Anyone interested in Ham Radio is encouraged to check out our website at http://www.w8umd.org or contact n8yd@arrl.net for more information.

Extension calendar for September

September, 2010: 6 - Labor Day Holiday, Extension Office closed; 7 - Building Blocks I begins, 6:00-8:00pm, OSUE Learning Center; 9 - Helping Children Succeed After Divorce, 3:00-5:00pm, OSUE Learning Center; 11 - CARTEENS, 9:00-11:00am, OSUE Learning Center; 16 - 4-H County Committee, 7:00pm, OSUE Learning Center. For more information, please call 937.548.5215 or email dark@cfaes.osu.edu.

Park District meeting - September 9th

The Darke County Park District Board of Commissioners will hold a Regular Board Meeting on Thursday, September 9, 2010 at 5:30 p.m. at the Shawnee Prairie Nature Education Center, 4267 St. Rt. 502 W. Greenville, OH.

Several new events are listed on the Versailles page

atVersailles.com.

For the Reds fans: Chapman hits 103mph in first outing

If you didn't watch the game last night, you missed something special. Reds' phenom, Aroldis Chapman, made his debut in spectacular fashion - video here.

Patrick Henry Hughes Program - September 18th

Patrick Henry Hughes and his dad, Patrick John Hughes are coming to St. Clair Memorial Hall in Greenville, Ohio on Saturday, September 18, 2010 at 7:00 P.M. Tickets are $5.00 each and are on sale now at the following businesses: Bread of Life Christian Book Store in Greenville, Ohio; Christian Book Store in Union City, Indiana and Grace Christian Book Store in Piqua, Ohio. Seating is limited, so buy your tickets now!

Patrick Henry Hughes is a handicapped student at the University of Louisville, and he and his dad march in the band. The Hughes family was featured on "Extreme Makeover Home Edition" and Patrick has also been featured on ESPN, "Good Morning America" and "World News Tonight." The East Main Church of Christ 419 East Main Street, Greenville, Ohio is sponsoring this event!

Photo: Patrick and Maria Sharapova at the 2007 ESPY's.

Oops! (from Charlotte, North Carolina)

Farmers Market, Salsa Contest this Saturday in Downtown Greenville

The Farmers Market is Saturday, 9am to 2pm, at the Darke County Courthouse.

The salsa contest is free and open to the public: 10:30am-12:30pm. Market goers vote on favorites: best mild salsa, best hot salsa, most unusual salsa and best overall.

To participate, you must submit an entry form by noon on Thursday. The entry form is here.

PRESENTED BY: DAILY ADVOCATE NEWSPAPER, KITCHENAID EXPERIENCE AND MAIN STREET GREENVILLE

2010 National Preparedness Month

National Preparedness Month is observed each September in the United States of America. Sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) within the Department of Homeland Security, Preparedness Month encourages Americans to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, schools, and communities. FEMA's Ready Campaign educates and empowers Americans to prepare for, and respond to emergencies, including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks.

National Preparedness Month is a part of the committed effort to strengthen the United States' preparedness capabilities. The national preparedness architecture encompasses the full spectrum of prevention, protection, response, and recovery efforts to prepare the United States for all hazards – whether terrorist attack or natural disaster.

Since September 11th, the US Government has taken steps to encourage all citizens to make their own survival preparations. September was chosen as National Preparedness Month, as the tragedies of September 11th highlighted to the nation the importance of being prepared.

Locally, the Darke County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management would like to take this opportunity to urge residents to join this preparedness initiative.

Ready.gov provides simple and practical steps every American can take to be better prepared including: preparing a family emergency plan, create an emergency supply kit and getting involved in community preparedness efforts.

Locally, training is being offered for the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), a component of Citizen Corps, on September 18, 25 & October 2, 2010. This training enables citizens to be better prepared for themselves, their families and their neighbors. CERT volunteers may also be called upon to assist in a time of need when first responders may be overwhelmed. This training is free and more information is available by calling 937-548-1444 or visiting http://www.darkecountyema.org/.

Wave 96 will broadcast Friday's Greenville game

Wave 96 will be doing a live broadcast of the Greenville vs. Tipp City high school football game this Friday (or if internet in unavailable the game will be recorded on MP3 format Play by Play to be aired on Wave 96 over the day Saturday). Kickoff is 7:30 P.M. @ Harmon Field

Wave 96 is also starting a Wave Athlete of the week; this currently has no sponsor if you are interested feel free to contact Wave 96 for more information!

I also want to take this time to ask for any thoughts or feedback regarding Wave 96! Thanks and Go Wave!

Former Marion Local pitcher makes the majors, to debut for Padres Friday

Congratulations to Cory Luebke, former pitcher for Marion Local High School and The Ohio State University. Best of luck to you Cory - unless you're pitching against the Reds. You can read the San Diego Padres' media release here.

[h/t mercercountyoutlook.com]

BRC 's Upcoming Charity Auction includes a NEW 2010 Harley!

All proceeds benefit Brethren Retirement Community's Resident Aid Fund. Brethren Retirement Community was established in 1902 and has never asked a resident to leave due to their inability to pay for the full cost of their care.

Come join the fun! To purchase event tickets or for more information, please call 937-547-7628.

NEW 2010 Harley! Low to the ground and high on style, this nimble bike looks as good as it handles. Winner pays tax and title (not included in auction price). Winner will pick bike up at the Govers on Monday, September 13, 2010, after being introduced to the people there.

2 year warranty; 1 year Harley Hog Membership; 90 days - 15% discount on all Harley accessories; 10% on after-market parts. The winner of this bike can be trade it in on another bike (book value - talk to dealership for details). See this bike NOW in their show room or at our event, A representative from Gover's Harley Davidson will be attending our event to answer all your questions. A HUGE Thank You to Gover Harley Davidson. Auction site here.

Prairie Days Festival - September 25th and 26th

Have you ever thought about volunteering for your community? If so, then we need YOU to help on September 25 and September 26 at Shawnee Prairie Preserve.  During these two days, the Friends of the Darke County Parks will be holding the 10th annual PRAIRIE DAYS FESTIVAL.  We are in need your help assisting the public with pioneer activities and crafts (candle dipping, tussie mussies, tin-smithed lanterns, pioneer hats, sewing bean bags, and rope making, etc.), setting up exhibits, stirring apple butter, running the Log House and lots more!  This is a wonderful experience to build a resume and/or to enjoy a fun free weekend visiting with other people throughout Darke County.  If you are interested in this opportunity please call Laura at 937.548.0165 to sign up TODAY!  Not quite sure yet?  Join us for one of the Prairie Days Workshops on September 18, 2010 1:00PM-4:00PM or September 20, 2010 from 5:00PM-7:00PM (please RSVP for which workshop you wish to attend).  Hope to see you there.

More flower show winners

Open thread: how about a political discussion?

Public Policy Polling (PPP) asked Ohio voters who they'd rather have in the White House right now: the current president, or the prior president. And the results: Bush 50, Obama 42. Comments?

Fair flower show winners

Volunteers needed

Put your euchre, bingo and bridge skills to the test by matching up with older adults with a lifetime of experience mastering these and other games.

Oakley House needs activity assistants to play bingo and games with the residents of its facility. Volunteers will also help residents make crafts and participate in special events. This position is available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and a flexible schedule is available. Volunteers should be at least 18 years of age.

“Oakley House Assisted Living is a great place to share your time and talents with truly wonderful people,” says Bridget Sharp, Oakley House Residence Director. “If you are looking for a place that cares not only about the residents but also about everyone who walks through our doors, then please think about spending some time with us at Oakley House.”

To learn more about this volunteer opportunity or other opportunities within our community, please contact HandsOn West Central Ohio at (937) 548-8002, ext. 211, or visit www.handsonwestcentralohio.org. HandsOn West Central Ohio, including Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, is a program of Council on Rural Services. This program receives funding from Darke County United Way, Corporation for National Service, Area Agency on Aging, PSA2, Darke County Commissioners, Lydia E. Shaurer Trust, Harry Stephens Trust, Greenville Rotary Club and the Darke County HOPE Foundation.