WEDDING WALK TO KICK OF FIRST FRIDAYS

‘First Fridays’ are back for 2012 in downtown Greenville!

Join friends, family or co-workers to experience the wonderfully festive atmosphere of ‘First Fridays’ in downtown Greenville. On the first Friday of each month from February through December, downtown Greenville comes alive from 6-9 pm with businesses staying open while promoting a different theme each month– showcasing downtown as the place to be!

‘First Fridays’ begin on February 3 with a Wedding Walk theme. Sponsored by Romer’s Catering, St. Clair Manor and Daily Advocate, this event highlights over 20 downtown businesses that serve the wedding industry. The free event allows brides, grooms, attendants, parents or anyone wanting to explore downtown in the evening to do so at a relaxed pace and setting. The Wedding Walk begins at Romer’s Catering where a map and passport will be provided. The map will highlight businesses on the walk and the category they serve for weddings and newly weds. While on the walk enjoy venue tours of Romer’s Catering & St. Clair Manor, how to get that wedding day glow, wedding wear fashion show, honeymoon destinations & the matching apparel, blissful bouquet workshop, and a chance to win a downtown gift basket valued over $500.00 by filling up the passport and dropping it off at St. Clair Manor.

Businesses participating in this ‘First Fridays‘ include AAA, The A&B Coffee & Cake Co., AMS Uniforms, The Bootery, Bread of Life, Brenda’s Beanery, Candy Bouquet, Cavalier Clothing, Commercial Printing, Country Primitives, Daily Advocate, ElementsLife, Granny’s Corner, KitchenAid Experience, The Ivy League, Janet’s Bakery, Merle Norman Cosmetics, Montage Café, Pamela’s Intimate Apparel, Readmore’s Hallmark, Romer’s Catering, St. Clair Manor, and Youniques Boutique.

‘First Fridays’ is presented by Main Street Greenville, a non-profit organization committed to stimulating and supporting revitalization efforts, historic preservation and economic growth in Historic Downtown Greenville. To learn more, visit www.DowntownGreenville.org or call 937-548-4998.

LYDIA E. SCHAURER MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTES TO DCCA

The Lydia E. Schaurer Memorial Trust Fund has recently awarded funds to Darke County Center for the Arts to support the Family Theater Series and Arts in Education programs. According to a DCCA representative, DCCA presents and promotes performing and fine arts, encouraging cultural enrichment in the community. DCCA is also committed to the preservation of Henry St. Clair Memorial Hall as an important cultural center.

DCCA presents three shows annually in the Family Theatre Series; these programs are generally based on children’s literature. The next performance in this series, HOUSE AT POOH CORNER, will be presented by Theatre IV on Sunday, March 25, 2012, 2:00 P.M. at St. Clair Memorial Hall in Greenville.

The Arts in Education program takes professional performing artists to every grade level in all Darke County and Greenville City schools. Artists are escorted to schools by volunteers during a week long residency, generally performing twice a day, with the exception of the Jr. High school artists who usually present at St. Clair Memorial Hall with students being transported from the schools. DCCA works in close cooperation with the Darke County Office of Education to choose presentations appropriate for grade levels and coordinate performance schedules with schools.

According to Executive Director Julie Strait, Darke County Center for the Arts is grateful for the generous and loyal support received from the Lydia E. Schaurer Memorial Trust, enabling DCCA to provide programs that inspire creativity, educate, and entertain the children and youth of our community. For more information regarding these programs, contact Julie Strait at DCCA by telephone at 937-547-0908 or e-mail at DCCA@CenterForArts.net .

DCSO: SUSPECT IN CUSTODY CONFESSES TO NUMEROUS B&E’s IN 5 COUNTIES

Fonner

On the afternoon of January 23, 2012 Detectives from Darke County traveled to Mercer County to interview Douglas N. Fonner, 27, Mendon, Ohio. Fonner was previously arrested by Mercer County Deputies in Mercer County in connection with a number of recent break-ins at grain elevators and other local businesses.

Darke and Mercer County Detectives together conducted an interview with Fonner. Fonner confessed that in the early morning hours of January 5, 2012 he broke into Birt’s Store and Mercer Landmark in New Weston, and Moody’s Auto Service in Ansonia. Fonner also confessed that on December 21, 2011 he broke into True Point Elevator in Osgood. All four businesses are located in northern Darke County, Ohio.

During the course of the interview, Fonner confessed to committing numerous break-ins to businesses throughout Auglaize, Darke, Mercer, Shelby and Van Wert counties beginning in November 2011.

Based on the information obtained during the investigations, multiple breaking and entering and theft charges will be filed through the Darke County Prosecutor’s Office.

Investigation continues with these cases.

For more information, please visit the Darke County Sheriff’s Office online at www.DarkeCountySheriff.org or www.Facebook.com/DarkeCountySheriff

St. Paul's Episcopal Church Offering Renewal of Vows

Garden Workshop

Are you tired of the dreary weather? Why not think ahead to spring? Shake those winter blues by joining the Olde Thyme Gardeners and the Darke County Parks for their annual Spring Gardening Workshop held on Saturday, February 18 from 9:00 until 4:00 at the Shawnee Prairie Nature Center, 4267 State Route 502, Greenville, Ohio 45331.

The theme of this year's event is "Back to Nature". We have our very popular speakers returning this year as well as some newcomers. Donna Kronenberger and Charlie Cressel were so well received at our fall herb workshop that we invited them to come back. Donna will be speaking on "Sprouting for Better Health" and Charlie will talk about natural weed control and soil amendments. Also returning by popular demand is Mandy Martin speaking on hummingbird and butterfly gardens. Well known speakerg Wes Duren of Marvin's Organic Gardens in Lebanon, Ohio will discuss "Organic Container Gardening" and noted author Robert L. Henn will speak about Ohio's Wildflowers. His book will be available for sale and signing.

Pre-registration is required and the workshop is limited to the first 50 participants so be sure to sign up early! The fee is $30 which covers the cost of speakers, materials and a catered lunch. If you would like a lunch, registration is required by Friday, February 10. The cost is $25 if you register after February 10 and you will be on your own for lunch. Of course, you may register for $25 at any time for the workshop only and no lunch. Please call Olde Thyme Gardener President Bethany DuPuy at 937-547-0877 or 937-417-8917 if you have any questions. You may register in person at the nature center office or mail your check made out to The Olde Thyme Gardeners, c/o Darke County Parks, PO Box 801, 4267 St Rt 502, Greenville, Oh 45331. Come and join the gardening fun and you may even walk away with a door prize!

KETROW FOUNDATION CONTRIBUTES TO DCCA

Ketrow Foundation has awarded funds to Darke County Center for the Arts (DCCA) to support the Family Theatre Series and Arts in Education programs. DCCA presents and promotes performing and fine arts, encouraging cultural enrichment in the community. DCCA is also committed to the preservation of Henry St. Clair Memorial Hall as an important cultural center.

DCCA presents three shows annually in the Family Theatre Series; these programs are generally based on children’s literature. The Arts in Education program presents performances to every grade level in all Darke County and Greenville City schools.

According to Executive Director Julie Strait, Darke County Center for the Arts is grateful for Ketrow Foundation’s generous and loyal support, enabling DCCA to provide programs that inspire creativity, educate, and entertain the children and youth of our community. For more information regarding these programs, contact Julie Strait at DCCA (937) 547-0908.

WHIOtv.com: 2 Accused of Stealing Scrap Metal

Jones, Elliott

WHIOtv.com has reported that two Darke County men have been arrested for allegedly stealing scrap metal from a residence in southern Darke County.

David Elliott, 44, and Michael Jones, 34, were arrested after being confronted by Sheriff Deputies after someone called, reporting that they believed the pair were stealing scrap metal. When confronted, the men had scrap metal from the property with them.

Elliott is being held while charges are filed for breaking and entering and a parole vioaltion, while Jones is held pending the B&E, but also on an outstanding warrant issued by Darke County Adult Probation. WHIO also notes that he is currently awaiting sentencing on another unrelated charge.

Click here for the full story from WHIOtv.com

Flower Patch Celebrates 5 Years

Pictured: L-R Kathy & Rick Beam, Owners, Jennifer Lightner, Designer, Katie Netzley Designer & Manager
Not Pictured: Tami Huff Marketing Coordinator

The Flower Patch is located at 104 Rhoades Avenue just west of Wagner Avenue in Greenville. We are a full service floral and gift shop that provides a unique window into the cycles of people’s lives. The Flower Patch is celebrating five fantastic years serving customers in Darke County and the surrounding areas!

The Flower Patch provides stability with a wide range of possibilities that go from fast cash and carry to extensive customer service as we work with clients to ensure them with the endless supply of the beauty of flowers and gifts no matter the occasion.

We prepare elegant boxes of long stemmed roses for Valentine’s Day and help customers honor their mothers with flowers and plants at Mother’s Day. We reflect a bride’s personality and taste with custom designed wedding bouquets and help people honor their loved ones by creating beautiful floral funeral tributes. In addition, we make people smile with our wide-variety of flowers for birthdays, anniversaries and just every day floral arrangements.

Throughout our five years in business, The Flower Patch has been known for our Traveling Kindness Bouquet. The whole concept of our traveling kindness bouquet is KINDNESS – Pass It On. These flowers are delivered and enjoyed for a short time; recipients sign the card and pass it on so someone else can enjoy them. This chain continues until the flowers are starting to fade, then the bouquet and the card can be brought to The Flower Patch where we will provide you with a new arrangement and card and the chain of kindness will continue. We have received awesome response from the community with this concept.

The Flower Patch has also supported and sponsored many organizations. During our five years of business, we have been proud supporters of the following groups: Alterra Sterling House Alzheimer’s Unit, American Red Cross, Darke County Little Miss & Mister Fair Pageant, Darke County Fair Harness Racing Association, Darke County Center for the Arts, Darke County Cancer Society, Darke County Blood Bank, Greenville Schools Foundation, Greenville High School Vocal Music Boosters, Greenville High School Athletic Boosters, Greenville Citizen’s Baseball League, GTI Acme Baseball, and Ovations.

The Flower Patch Manager and Designer, Katie Netzley has just recently completed the Floral Design Program at Ashworth College. Our team includes Jennifer Lightner, Designer and Tami Huff Marketing Consultant. The Flower Patch is proud to have 18 years of combined design experience. The owners are Rick and Kathy Beam and we are family owned and operated.

Our hours are Monday – Friday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Saturday 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and appointments are also available for after hours. We offer free wedding consultations on an appointment basis.

We carry the following items:

• Floral Arrangements in Fresh Flowers and Silk Flowers for any occasion.
• Specialty Gift Items including Wind chimes and Music Boxes
• Balloon Bouquets
• Blanket Throws
• Potted Plants
• Fruit & Gourmet Baskets
• Funeral Arrangements
• Wedding Arrangements
• Cash & Carry Flower Arrangements
• Custom Design Arrangements
• Delivery is available in the local and surrounding areas for same day delivery in most cases. We offer free delivery to Oliver Floyd Funeral Home, Wayne Healthcare and Zechar Bailey Funeral Home.

Along with the items listed above, we do carry seasonal items. Those items range from Easter Lilies and bulb plants, to hanging baskets and potted plants for Mother’s Day, to fresh Christmas greens, including wreaths and grave blankets, and poinsettias.

In celebration of our Five years in business, now through Friday, February 10, 2012 place your order for delivery on Tuesday, February 14, 2012 and receive FREE delivery countywide. In addition, we will be hosting an Open House on Saturday, February 11, 2012 from 9am – 2pm. You will receive $5 off any order of $15 or more if you come into the shop that day to place an order for delivery on Tuesday, the 14th. The Flower Patch is also working closely with A&B Coffee & Cake Co. To offer you a “Treat for your Sweet.” A&B cookies will be available at The Flower Patch to add to your order of flowers or gifts on Valentine’s Day. A&B Coffee & Cake Co. is located at 501 S Broadway here in Greenville. Their phone # is 937-459-5720. You can visit them on the web at www.abcoffeecake.com.

At The Flower Patch we strive for perfection, high quality and 100% customer satisfaction. Stop in at the shop and let us take care of all your floral needs. We look forward to serving you.

Full Moon Hike

Winter Full Moons provide fantastic hiking; and what better way to spend a Full Moon Hike than with your hike-loving Pooch! Participants are encouraged (not required) to bring their leashed dog along. The February Full Moon hike will be held on Tuesday, February 7th at 6:30pm. This hike will be held at Routzong Preserve (located on Routzong Rd, just off of 571-East). The light from the moon will guide you along the trails of this Beech-Maple forest. In the event of cloudy skies, the hike will be cancelled.

 For more information on this and other hikes lead by the Darke County Parks, call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165 or visit our website at www.darkecountyparks.org.

Daily Standard: Man Arrested in Mercer County Could be Responsible for Darke County (and other) Crimes

Fonner

The Daily Standard is reporting today that Douglas N Fonner was arrested late last week, and now even more charges could be coming resulting from investigations into several robberies.

The story details several break ins in the Celina/Mercer County area, but it also mentions he is a suspect in several burglaries that have occurred in Darke, Van Wert, Auglaize and Shelby Counties.

Click here to read the full story and with more details at DailyStandard.com

Also, could this suspect be involved in the Birt's Store robbery that is currently featured as an unsolved crime at Darke County Crime Stopper's page? We will post more information as it becomes available...

Photo from DarkeCountyCrimeStoppers.com

WHIOtv.com: Fatal Crash Near Mercer County - Darke County Line

WHIOtv.com has a sad report this morning of another local fatality resulting from an auto accident. This one happening early this morning on Mercer-Darke County Line Road. After Darke County Sheriff Deputies arrived at the scene, it was determined that the accident occurred in Mercer County.

Lucas Staugler, 22, from Fort Recovery was killed in the accident.

More information can be found by clicking here to read WHIOtv.com's full story.

Friday Night Movie "Courageous"

Please click on the following link to see the previews of this great movie we will be showing on Friday night, Jan. 27th at 6 p.m @ Triumphant Christian Center. We will all have a great time watching the movie and enjoying pop corn & drinks. Hope to see you there. We are located at 1129 Southtowne Ct., Greenville, Oh. (Directly behind Hansbargers on Rte. 49 S.) Come on out for a movie and fellowship. THIS MOVIE IS A MUST SEE FOR ALL!! Everything is free but we will take donations.

Check us out at: www.tccgreenville.com

Hearth Cooking

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to cook without a microwave or oven? Many pioneer meals were prepared at the hearth of an open fireplace. Head on out to the Log House at Shawnee Prairie Preserve (4267 St. Rt. 502 West) to learn about hearth cooking on Saturday, February 4th at 1:00pm. Warm yourself by the fire as you will be taught how the pioneers prepared their foods. At the hearthside cooking, you will not only taste some sweet and delicious dishes but you will also be put to work for some hands-on learning on exactly how pioneer women prepared their food. Pre-Registration is required for this event, so call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165. The fee for this program is $5 per person. For more information on this and other programs offered by the Darke County Parks, please visit our website at www.darkecountyparks.org

Darke County Photo Club to Hold Photography Workshop

“WE KNEAD U MASSAGE” TO SPEAK AT CANCER SUPPORT GROUP FEBRUARY 2.

The next meeting of the “Living with Cancer” Support Group will be held on Thursday, February 2 from 7:00 to 8:30 pm. The meeting will take place in the third floor conference room at Wayne Health Care. Rena Slater, licensed massage therapist will meet and share information regarding massage and other approaches to help the cancer patient.

Rena has a bachelor’s degree from Wright State in Rehabilitation. She is licensed by the State of Ohio Medical Board in Massage Therapy and is nationally certified in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. She is also a Certified Manual Medicine Technician and is certified in Reiki as a Master/Teacher. She continued study with Dr. Connolly, Naturopathic Practitioner, David Kent, Full Body Dissection and Dr. Keith Barbour, D.O. She also continues to take various courses related to specific conditions and techniques.
“We Knead U” has been in business over 10 years and they offer massage designed to meet specific needs. They offer also offer Reflexology, Aqua Detox and Aqua Massage Bed.

The local Cancer Association of Darke County sponsors the Living with Cancer group in cooperation with Wayne Hospital. The Support Group is open to anyone with a cancer diagnosis, also family and friends of an individual with cancer are encouraged to attend. Facilitating the support group meeting this week will be Christine Yount and Jill Brown from Wayne Health Care from Wayne Hospital. The group is not affiliated with American Cancer Society nor other organizations.

For further information, contact the Cancer Association of Darke County office at 548-9960. Office hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:00 A.M. to Noon and 1:00 to 4:30 P.M.

Winter Day Camp: Nature in February

Hey Kids! What better way is there to spend a day off school than at the Nature Center? Hey Parents! What better place is there to send your kids on their day off school than to the Nature Center? Join the Darke County Parks’ Naturalists and Volunteers on Monday, February 20th for hours filled to the brim of hands-on discovery of Ohio’s natural world. We’ll go hiking, play games and learn how Ohio’s plants and animals survive the winter. There will be crafts, hands-on with the animals and so much more! Make sure you dress for the weather as there is no better way to explore and discover Nature in February than hiking through the trails of Shawnee Prairie Preserve in search of signs of winter wildlife. There will be two age groups, kindergarten through 3rd grade will be from 9:30am-12:00pm and 4th through 6th grade will be held from 1:30pm-4:00pm.

The fee is $5 per child. If you have any questions or are interested in signing your child up for Winter Day Camp at the Darke County Parks, please call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165.

GARST MUSEUM VOLUNTEERS TO SPEAK BEFORE LOCAL BPW CLUB

Greenville, OH. January 25, 2012 - The Greenville Business & Professional Women’s (BPW) Club is making preparations for their February meeting. The meeting is being hosted by the Public Relations Committee consisting of Susan Fowble, Bev Delk, and Mary Catherine Wilson.

The program scheduled for the evening is entitled ‘A Museum in a Suitcase’. Marilyn Robbins, Pat Lemmer and Norma Schilling are volunteers with Garst Museum and will be presenting the program. The ladies are bringing a ‘suitcase’ filled with interesting and unusual items and artifacts from the Garst Museum. Come and find out a little history about Darke County!

The Club will be meeting on Thursday, February 9, 2012 in the Brick Room at the Brethren Retirement Community located at 750 Chestnut, Greenville, OH. The dinner meeting will begin at 6:30 PM.

The Greenville BPW Club would like to invite women interested in learning more about the Club to the meeting. Call Susan Fowble at 937/548-1414 by noon on Monday, February 6, 2012 to make a reservation to attend this meeting. The cost is $10.00 per person.

Art Classes to be Offered at Third Street Market

The Third Street Market, located at 120 West Third Street, Greenville, OH, will be offering art classes during the month of February. The group classes will cover drawing fundamentals, media exploration and the development of a personal style. Private art lessons are also available.

The classes are led by professionally trained artist/illustrator, Michael Glass. He graduated from Columbus College of Art and Design in 1997, and has taught on the college level. Michael works as a professional fine artist and commercial illustrator. His talents have been demonstrated in the graphic design field for print and web. He is very happy to have this opportunity.

Drawing Fundamentals. February 2, 9, 16, 23. 6-7pm. $48
Drawing from Life. February 3, 10, 17, 24. 6-7:30 pm. $55
Personal Art Training. Contact to schedule an appointment. A.M. and P.M. available
All classes will need to be preregistered. Please contact Michael Glass: mglassstudio@gmail.com or 937-621-5776

Anti-Bullying Defense at Wittler’s Black Belt Academy

Wittler’s Black Belt Academy Has a Passion for Kids.

Mr. Wittler at Wittler’s Black Belt Academy has a soft heart when it comes to our youth. He knows firsthand what it was like to go through schools being teased as well as bullied. He is aiming to help and has put together a nine week session for grades kindergarten through twelve. It is Anti-Bullying Defense through forming a S.T.O.R.M. team. He has decided to keep classes at twenty-five students so they all can receive adequate instruction. They will view videos and have discussions. Each Child gets hands on role playing as well as learning self defense techniques.

What is Anti-Bullying Defense?

This is a defense strictly used against anti-bullying. Your children will learn to recognize bulling, how to report bullying, where to go when nothing works, how to help a friend who is being bullied. They meet two days a week. BA Star is incorporated within our classes. Stop Bullying now are within the younger children’s classes. Everyone will receive a T-Shirt and certificate.

S.T.O.R.M.

What does it stand for? Special Team Of Role Models. Children learn if they work as a team and look out for each other, they can be successful. They will learn when to use their skills and how to productively use them. Teams will be taught the importance of communication. You will all gain a source of adults to guide you through every step.

Classes start around the third week of February. Classes are limited to 25 students per class. Non-refundable deposit needed for reservation. Stop in (325 Martin St. Old Marsh Plaza) or call (459-5091) for more

$40 off at Country Bridal and Tux / Help Wanted!

PRE-register WEDDING TUXEDOS

$40.00 off* ea. Rental Darke County’s Largest Selection

(937)547-0007-Greenville

*off suggested retail/not valid w/other offers -www.countrybridalandtux.com

Seamstress Needed! Part-time or full-time.

Prom season is almost here! Professional alterations for all types sewing since 1982

POTUS State of the Union, What Did You Think?

What did you think of President Obama's speech and the Republican response?

DarkeJournal.com Republican Candidate Poll Results

After 400+ votes, the readers of DarkeJournal.com have made it clear who they support in the GOP presidential race. Newt Gingrich came out with more than twice the number of votes if the closest candidate, Mitt Romney.

The two continue to battle it out on a national level, and it will be interesting to see how the race plays out in the near future.

GTI Acme Baseball Signups Now Available

Applications are now available for Greenville Junior High Baseball Program. GTI Acme Baseball is once again sponsoring both 7th and 8th grade baseball teams. Both teams will play in the GWOC league this year. There will be an information meeting on Sunday, January 29th at 1:45pm located at The Yard. Directly following the meeting, open cages will begin and run from 2-4 on the following Sundays: 01/29, 02/05, 02/12, and 02/19. Open cages are not mandatory, but encouraged. Tryouts will be held on Sat, Feb 25th and Sun Feb, 26th and are mandatory. Applications can be downloaded by clicking here, or picked up in the Greenville Junior High school office and need to be turned in by Feb 3rd.

For more information or any questions, please contact Matt or Katie Netzley at 547-9659.

Learn to Play the Mountain Dulcimer: Part 2

Do you have a mountain dulcimer gathering dust at your house? It’s time to learn to play it! This program is for those who attended the first Mountain Dulcimer program, but beginners are welcome! Volunteer Margaret Hensel will host another informative lesson in the art of the Mountain Dulcimer at the Darke County Parks Nature Center on Thursday, February 9th at 6:00pm. This program will review what we learned (and may have forgotten) from the first dulcimer program and then take you to the next step in playing your dulcimer.

Space is limited, so be sure to register early! To pre-register, call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165. There is a $2 fee for this program.

**Attendees must provide their own 6 ½ fret dulcimer.**

Local Woman Launches Business to Help Seniors

Donna Kemp recently announced the opening of Premier Senior Insurance in Greenville, a company dedicated to helping seniors.

“Seniors represent the fastest growing segment of our population and they are finding it difficult to locate someone who is willing to take the time to help them,” Kemp says. Kemp wants to be a resource for seniors. “My goal is to provide seniors with the information they need to make an informed decision,” she added.

Kemp has managed several medical offices over the past 24 years and has a compassionate heart for what seniors go through when they turn 65. “People turning age 65 are entering a whole new stage in life,” Kemp commented. “They are bombarded with marketing pieces in the mail which, many times, only serve to complicate things even more.”

To familiarize local residents with her new business, she is planning the first in a series of public Coffee Break informational sessions on February 23, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. to be held at Brenda’s Beanery located at 410 S. Broadway in Greenville, OH. The topic will be Medicare Alphabet Soup – Understanding Your Options. Interested seniors are asked to reply with intent to attend by calling 800-691-5128.

Kemp is licensed in Ohio & Indiana and resides in Greenville with her two children.

4th Annual GCBL/GGSA Cornhole Tournament

CORRECTED: Double Tournament has a guaranteed payout of $1,000!


4th Annual GCBL/GGSA Cornhole Tournament February 25, 2012 @ Paws Bingo

848 Martin Street Greenville, Ohio
Located Across from Greenville Inn

Single tournament starts at Noon. Double elimination.
(Check in begins @11:00a.m.)
$20 per person with a 75% payout

Double tournament starts @3:00p.m. Double elimination.
(Check in begins @2:00p.m.)
$1000 GUARNTEED PAYOUT ( for Doubles Tourney)
$40 per team to enter

Concession Stand **** Cold Beverages Sold

Call for more information or to register a team.

Shawn Shaffer 937-459-9187(GGSA)
Keith Heidrich 937-760-2008(GCBL)

All proceeds to benefit Greenville Citizens Baseball & Greenville Girls Softball Association, Inc.

KidBucks Game Show to Bring Free Entertainment to The Great Darke County Fair

The Board of Directors for the Darke County Agricultural Society are pleased to announce that the free grounds entertainment for the 2012 Fair will be the KidBucks Game Show. This show will take place 3 times daily (3pm, 5pm, 7pm) beginning Monday, August 20th and running though Saturday, August 27th. These shows will take place at the same location as the Tiger, Elephant and Alligator Shows in past years. For more information on KidBucks, view http://www.kidbucksgameshow.com/

FAIR DATES
 2012 AUGUST 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 AUGUST 2012
 1853 – 2012
 156th Fair

Commissioners Corner - January 2012

The New Year has arrived, and so far it has come in rather meekly. The weather hasn’t been too bad, there seems to be a lull in activity in Columbus, and here in the Commissioner’s Office things are getting back to normal after our appropriations have been completed. Now, we can all look forward to the tax season can’t we? (NO!)

Darke County came through a very tough year in 2011 in pretty decent shape. We balanced our budget, everybody kept their bottom lines steady, and we had a slight increase in sales tax revenue. This year’s General Fund Appropriations will be $15,283,197.93. This reflects an increase of $554,803.79. Including all outside funds the total appropriated amount for Darke County in 2012 is $55,968,852.95. Darke County had an unencumbered balance in 2012 of $2,596,465.34. This was achieved due to the conservative efforts of the Darke County Elected Officials and Department Heads working together to use the money that we receive wisely and efficiently. Thanks to all of our Elected Officials, Department Heads, and the people of the County for spending their money in Darke County.

We are continuing to work hard to save as much money as possible, but with cuts at the Federal and State levels still to come, it will get much tougher. Our estimated revenue does show a slight increase of $123,434.00, but there are various reasons for this amount. Highlighting just a few, Sales tax revenue increased by $500,000, but State cuts to the Local Government Fund (LGF) was $256,049.00, the Public utility reimbursement loss was $26,000.00, and the Personal Property reimbursement loss was $203,000.00 for a total State cut of $485,049.00. The increase in Sales tax only offset the State loss of funds by $14,951.00. The other $108,483.00 was from revenue that was advanced to Federal Grants in 2011 and will be advanced back this year. The increase in the unencumbered balance increase of $404,369.00 over 2011 is due to the tremendous work of the various departments working together and as efficiently as possible to make ends meet.

On the economic front, the E.D. Office continues to advance the merits of Darke County. Projects are in the pipeline for expansion or retention of businesses, and hopefully we can elaborate more by March or April. A main area of focus this year will be in Job Skills training. Governor Kasich has made this a priority this year, and Darke County has been working on this for several months. Once again, we are ahead of the State. Thanks to Marc Saluk for pushing this agenda, so we will have a steady supply of workers for the many available jobs here in Darke County. It should be mentioned here that Gracie Ratliff, the more than capable Director of Jobs and Family Services, is helping with this project and is working to get people placed in the work force as quickly as possible. Thanks to Gracie and her staff for all their hard work.

The Darke County Commissioners are open to the public with Sessions every Monday and Wednesday at 1:30 p.m. in the Commissioner’s Office. We are located just south of the Courthouse at 520 S. Broadway in downtown Greenville. Please join us and let us know your concerns, or questions you have about how things operate here in the County. Hope to see you there!

- The Darke County Commissioners

DDN: Versailles' Prakel is Gatorade Ohio Cross Country Runner of the Year

Sam Prakel, Photo from DDN,
taken by Barbara J. Perenic

The Dayton Daily News has a quick story on Versailles' cross country runner Sam Prakel (that's Division II State Champion Sam Prakel) being named as Gatorade's Ohio Boys Cross Country Runner of the Year.

He is a junior at Versailles and has a 4.0 gpa and is currently ranked first in his class.

Congrats, Sam!

Greenville Parks Launches "Carry In, Carry Out" Program

Greenville Park Board met for their monthly meeting last week. With the recent cuts that the park budget took for 2012, the board is continuing to review ways to save money and time in the parks. One of those cost savings was to review the trash dumpsters that are located throughout the park. We removed 13 trash dumpsters around the park and want the public to know that we are counting on your help, to keep our parks clean!

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has removed 372 trash cans from state parks over the last three years. And, surprisingly, park manager’s report seeing less trash on trails, according to an article published on Monday by The Columbus Dispatch.

As part of the department’s “Carry In, Carry Out” program, park-goers are asked to manage their own waste by leaving with the trash they bring in, reports Waste & Recycling News. Parks have also begun selling reusable containers and water bottles in gift shops to reduce plastic.

Due to high success rates, the can-cutting program – which began in the southwestern part of the state – will expand to central Ohio this spring, reports The Columbus Dispatch.

Greenville Park Board has picked up the campaign of The Ohio Department of Natural Resources “Carry In, Carry Out” program. Park-goers are asked to manage their own waste by leaving with the trash they bring in.

Why Carry In Carry Out?

Trash cans are unsightly in a natural setting, and they can disrupt woodland ecosystems

• Wildlife can become dependent on trash as a food source
• Pests, including bees and wasps, are also attracted to trash cans and dumpsters

When park staff spends less time and resources on trash collection, they can spend more time and resources on the facilities and programs you enjoy!

How can I help?

Minimize waste

• Pack your picnic in reusable containers
• Choose reusable eating utensils, cups and plates
• Avoid products with excessive packaging
• Bring a trash bag with you for your outing

We ask the public to help us with the Carry In Carry Out in our parks!

The Park board of Commissioners also wanted to let the public know that our peacocks in the park are in great shape. We recently had a volunteer ask to take care of the peacocks, feeding, water and checking on them two to three times a day. The peacocks are in warmer months in two separate pens, however for the winter are placed in one building that has a large space for getting through the winter months. We have a heated water system that keeps water from freezing and provide peacock feed on a daily basis.

If you would like to volunteer in our parks, we would love to have you…. You can contact one of the Park boards of Directors.

Kathy Beam, Matt Kolb, Dale Musser

What’s Banding All About?

Have you ever seen a bird with a colored “bracelet” on its leg or heard of someone “banding” a bird and wonder why someone would do that? Please join the Darke County Parks on Saturday, February 4th at 9:00 am, in welcoming Dr. Dave Russell of the Avian Research and Education Institute. Dr. Russell will help us discover what the use of bird banding and how scientists use this popular technique. After our informative lecture, we’ll head to the bird banding station to watch as Dr. Russell bands our local songbirds. The Avian Research and Education Institute (AREI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the preservation of avian populations. Their mission is to protect and conserve avian populations through research, education and advocacy. AREI is committed to establishing biological stations that will provide bird banding and environmental education to the public. Space is limited for this extremely popular program, so be sure to pre-register early.

There is a fee of $2 per person. For more information or to pre-register for this program, call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165 or visit our website at www.darkecountyparks.org. Don’t miss this opportunity to see some of our local songbirds up close!

HOPE Scholarship Applications Available

Seniors from the class of 2012 who attend a Darke County High School or are home-schooled are invited to apply for scholarships from the HOPE Foundation of Darke County. Application deadline is March 31, 2012. By filling out one general application, students are eligible for approximately 40 scholarships totaling over $75,000. Students may download the application from the HOPE Foundation website, www.hopedarkecounty.com, or they may obtain the application from their high school guidance counselor. Awards are based on the following criteria, not necessarily in this order: grade point average, ACT score, financial need, activities and essay. Potential recipients will be announced this spring at each high school’s graduation or awards program. Scholarship money will be disbursed following the student’s first semester in college, providing the student earns at least a 2.75 grade point average.

Since 1986, the HOPE Foundation has awarded over $950,000 to Darke County students. As the community foundation of Darke County, HOPE (Helping Other People Excel) is dedicated to improving the quality of life for Darke County residents by receiving, managing and distributing charitable gifts. Through donations by individuals, businesses and charitable organizations, the HOPE Foundation establishes funds that provide grants to students and non-profit organizations in Darke County. For more information, call the HOPE Foundation at (937) 548-HOPE.

Auction to Raise Funds for St. Mary's School

St. Mary’s School is pleased to announce the Etta Mae Foley Memorial Dinner and Auction is scheduled for Saturday, April 21, 2012 and will be held at Paws Bingo Hall in Greenville, Ohio. This is the largest single day fundraiser for the school so we are hoping for another successful year. The auction will begin at 6:00 and features a live and silent auction ran by Mike Baker of Midwest Auctioneers.

Make sure to mark your calendars and let your family and friends know the date of our auction. Also feel free to contact the school if you have any items you wish to donate at 548-2345. We are also accepting monetary donations which will be used to purchase items for the auction.

Fish Fry at the Darke County Fish & Game Club

THE FAMOUS DARKE COUNTY’S FISH AND GAME CLUB FISH FRYS ARE BACK!!!!

The fish and game club all you can eat fish fry will be held on Thursday, Feb. 23, 2012 from 5:30 until ?. The meal will include fried Pollack, hush puppies, and choice of 2 sides baked beans, cole slaw or apple sauce.

The price is $7.00 per adult, kids 10 and under eat for half price.

Eat in or Carry Out

The next one is scheduled for March 29.

THE DARKE COUNTY FISH AND GAME ASSOCIATION, INC

1407 NEW GARDEN RD. NEW PARIS, OHIO 45347

Rep. Richard Adams and House Republicans Outline Priorities for 2012

Workforce development, beginning hearings on fixing school funding formula among top goals for legislative session

COLUMBUS—On the heels of a successful first half of the General Assembly that saw the passage of more than 90 bills that address issues from regulatory reform and the creation of JobsOhio to prescription drug abuse, State Representative Richard Adams (R-Troy) today joined Speaker of the Ohio House William G. Batchelder (R-Medina) and members of the House Republican Caucus at a press conference to unveil their legislative priorities for 2012.

The priorities outlined by House Republicans include a close analysis, fact finding, and making recommendations for revising Ohio’s school funding formula, which in 1997 was deemed unconstitutional by the Ohio Supreme Court. Despite the court ruling, Ohio’s school funding system has not undergone any transformative changes that have wholly fixed the root of the problem. To address this issue, House Republicans announced that they will initiate comprehensive, bipartisan hearings on both the funding formula and student achievement throughout the duration of 2012.

The House Republican Caucus also laid out a proposal to implement the recommendations of the JobsOhio report through the creation of the Development Services Agency. The proposal will complete the transition to a lean, streamlined public/private partnership free of the cumbersome bureaucracy that characterized Ohio’s economic efforts in the past. Additionally, the caucus discussed strategies for implementing the findings of the Ohio Workforce Development Study Committee, specifically focusing on helping career tech schools and community colleges to prepare a ready workforce, as well as training Ohioans for imminent shale and energy jobs.

“I served on the Workforce Development Study Committee,” said Rep. Adams. “My background at the Upper Valley Career Center and Edison Community College will be useful and it’s providing informed input into preparing our citizens for good jobs.”

The caucus has also revealed plans to reform the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, building upon existing reforms to go further in assisting injured workers while identifying other cost-saving possibilities.

Other legislative items that the House Republican Caucus intends to address include:

• The Great Lakes Compact
• Casino and gaming laws
• Healthcare exchange
• Laws pertaining to exotic animals

“As we look forward to the continuation of economic development and creation of good jobs, I welcome the input of my constituents,” Rep. Adams said.

Diabetic Group Classes to be Held in February

February is American Heart Month. It is a time to help prevent heart disease by improving heart healthy habits. One way individuals with diabetes can reduce their risk of heart disease is by managing their blood glucose levels. This can be done in part by following a meal and exercise plan. Other ways to reduce heart disease is by not smoking, limiting salt and alcohol intake, and knowing your cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure levels and how to manage them.

Why should an individual with diabetes worry about heart disease? As a diabetic, you are at twice the risk of having a stroke or a heart attack compared to someone who does not have diabetes.

Education is a great way to help control your blood glucose and reduce your risk of complications. Diabetic Group Classes are sponsored by the Wayne HealthCare Diabetes Education Program. The classes combine visual learning with interaction between participants, to provide you with knowledge to manage your diabetes.

The classes help individuals understand the following: 1) diabetes disease process and treatment process, 2) the relationship between diabetes and healthy eating, 3) the value of monitoring and using the results, 4) incorporating physical activity into lifestyle, 5) how diabetic medications work, 6) ways to reduce risk of complications, 7) developing strategies for living with diabetes, and 8) developing strategies to promote health/change behavior.

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Cancer Association of Darke County selling Gourmet Dinner Raffle Tickets.

The Cancer Association of Darke County is holding their Gourmet Dinner Raffle. The winner of this annual event and seven of their friends or family will enjoy a gourmet meal prepared by the Gourmet Dinner Club, at your choice of time and place. The deadline for purchasing tickets is February 8th at noon; tickets available until the drawing. The drawing will be held Feb. 13. You do not need to be present to win. All donations are always appreciated, whether buying raffle tickets of not.

Eikenberry’s has been generous enough to donate the ingredients for the dinner and Minuteman Press has donated the printing of the tickets.

Members from the local “Gourmet Dinner Club” will be volunteering their time to prepare a multi-course meal. The chefs are Randy & Amy Breaden, Tom & Suzie Brown, Bill & Nancy Cooper, Donn & Cassie Fishbein, Tom & Julie Graber, Steve & Eileen Litchfield, and Bill & Kris Osterbur, Jeff Besecker and Leslie Handshoe.

The Cancer Association of Darke County is local and independent (not affiliated with the American Cancer Society.) All donations stay in the area to provide services to cancer patients, education and information in the prevention and early detection of cancer, and a yearly donation to research.

Tickets are available at the Cancer Association office located at 209 East Fourth Street in Greenville. Tickets are $5.00 each or 6 for $25.00. The office is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9-12 and 1-4:30. (Closed January 2, 2012) For more information, please contact Christine Yount at the Cancer Association at 548-9960.

Class of 2011 Presents JR Price with New Podium

On Monday, May 23, 2011, JR Price was left speechless by the Class of 2011. The graduating seniors of the GHS Orchestra and the GHS Jazz Scene had secretly contacted Ken Pence to fashion a new podium worthy of their teacher. Mr. Pence, whose wood working has won many awards locally, did not disappoint them. The new conductor’s stand was made from red oak and measures 36 inches square and 12 inches high, with a detachable step.

Unfortunately, Mr. Price had to wait until the fall semester of 2011 to actually inaugurate the podium, as there were no more scheduled concerts for the 2010-2011 school year. Finally, at the GHS Christmas Concert on December 12, Mr. Pence presented Mr. Price with a plaque commemorating the date and the gift. The podium, given to a much loved teacher, will be enjoyed at Memorial Hall for many years to come.

JR Price (left) with some of the members of the Class of 2011: (L-R) Kent Holmes,

Jonathan Jetter, Spencer Lewis, Josh Kerns, Tori Keaser, Bryce DeVoss, Ian Brown, Sam Capasso, Jene Ross