Saturday, December 31, 2011

[Updated] DCSO: Fatal Accident in Ithaca

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Click below to see WHIOtv.com's report on the fatal accident.


On December 30, 2011 at approximately 2:12 AM Darke County Deputies, along with Arcanum Fire, Arcanum Rescue and CareFlight were dispatched to the 700 Block of Pearl Street, Ithaca, in reference to a serious injury accident.

Preliminary investigation revealed a 2000 Tan Ford Explorer, driven by Andreas L. Belt, 24, Brookville, Ohio was southbound on Arcanum-Ithaca Road approaching the Village of Ithaca.  Belt's vehicle failed to negotiate a curve striking a guardrail.  Belt's vehicle traveled off the left side of the roadway, overturning, striking two parked vehicles.

Belt was transported to Miami Valley Hospital by CareFlight where he was later pronounced dead.  This is the eighth death on Darke County roadways this year.

This accident remains under investigation by the Darke County Sheriff's Office.

Turkey Shoot to be Held by Darke County Fish & Game

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Darke County Fish & Game will be having a Turkey Shoot on Sunday (New Years Day), starting at 12:00pm. Youth shoots and adults 12 ga shot gun at 30 yards.

Call for more information 937.273.8662

New Employees at State of the Heart Hospice

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Arcanum Resident New Employee For State of the Heart Hospice

Heather Wogomon
Heather J. Wogomon of Arcanum was recently hired as an On-Call Nurse for State of the Heart Hospice in Greenville. State of the Heart provides care to patients and families in eastern Indiana and western Ohio who are confronting a life limiting illness.

Wogomon has a background in advanced critical care having worked at Miami Valley Hospital and Grandview Hospital. She also has worked in palliative care as it relates to hospice services.

“I believe in the hospice philosophy and am very excited to be a part of the great hospice care provided locally,” she said.

In her free time, she enjoys gardening, her three children, running, and sports. Her husband is Ryan and her children are MiKayla, Mitchel and Maddy.

Ansonia Resident New Employee At State of the Heart Hospice

Anna Price
Anna Price of Ansonia has been hired as an LPN at State of the Heart Hospice. State of the Heart, with offices in Greenville, Coldwater and Portland, provides care to patients and families in eastern Indiana and western Ohio who are confronting a life limiting illness.

“I have always had a passion to work for hospice, especially State of the Heart Hospice,” she said. She has been an STNA for over five years, and an LPN for two years. She will work from the Mercer County office.

Price enjoys spending time with her friends and family and gardening and tending flowers in her spare time. She and her husband Richard have two boys and a daughter.

For more information about any of the services provided by State of the Heart, visit the agency web site at www.stateoftheheartcare.org.

Friday, December 30, 2011

Help Locating Lost iPod Touch on Broadway

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A Darke Journal reader is seeking help in finding her daughter's lost iPod Touch and sent the following. Please help if you can.
My eight year old dropped her itouch on Broadway today and a man in a black truck picked it up (he had no idea it was hers). Please pass on and if you know of such or find the iPod Touch please return to Montage Café. Thank you!

JANUARY BLOOD DRIVES IN DARKE COUNTY

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DARKE COUNTY, OH — (December 29, 2011) Community Blood Center (CBC) January is National Blood Donor Month. In honor of National Blood Donor Month donors who register to donate blood from January 2 – 28 will receive a Free“Help Keep Us Running All Year Long, Donate Blood” Long Sleeved T-Shirt.
Your help is needed all year long to maintain a safe blood supply. Make your New Year’s resolution a life changing decision, donate blood! Your one pint of donated blood can help to save up to three lives.

Scheduling your appointment is easy. Go on line to www.donortime.com to schedule your own appointment. You can also contact Dana Puterbaugh, Darke County - Account Representative @ 937-997-2199 / dputerbaugh@cbccts.org to schedule your appointment.

Please remember that appointments have priority and Walk –Ins are always welcome as the schedule permits. This just means that if you walk in and all appointments are filled at the time you come to the blood drive we will let you know when the next available appointment is and you have the choice to either wait or come back at the time that is available.

Please always allow 45 minutes to 1 hour to get through the entire process, even if you have an appointment.

Find the list of upcoming blood drives after the jump...

Darke County Animal Shelter Pets of the Week

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The Darke County Animal Shelter presents his pets of the week:


Scout is a 1-year-old Lab/Heeler mix. She is black and white with short hair. She is a sweet girl and loves to be around people. She will make a great companion. She has been spayed, is housebroken, is current on her shots and is good with kids. She is looking for a good home.

Zoe is a 1-year-old terrier mix. She is white with long hair. She is a little sweetheart. She only weighs around 15 pounds. She will make a great housedog and I’m sure she would love to sleep at the end of the bed. She is looking for a good home.

We also have a Border Collie mix pup, a boxer, a Golden Retriever, some labs and numerous other dogs. We also have cats and kittens for adoption. The Shelter hours are 8am till 4:30pm Monday-Friday and 9:00 till noon on Saturday. The Shelter is located at 5066 County Home Road in Greenville, and the phone number is 547-1645.

2012 Ohio County Dog licenses are on sale. They can be purchased at the following locations. Suttons in Arcanum, Pattys IGA in Bradford, Farmers State Bank in New Madison, Birts Store in New Weston, Osgood State Bank in Osgood, Old National Bank in Union City, Ace Hardware in Versailles, Ace Hardware in Greenville, the Auditors Office, and the Darke County Animal Shelter.

Something new for the County, You can purchase your dog license on-line at www.darkecountyrealestate.org. (Auditors web-site) ALL DOGS OVER 3 MONTHS OF AGE MUST HAVE A LICENSE. For more information you can contact the Animal Shelter at 937-547-1645. To see the dogs we have, go to our web site at www.darkecountyanimalshelter.com.

Local Sorority Makes Donation To State of the Heart Hospice

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Gamma Eta Chapter of the Lambda Chi Omega Sorority in Greenville recently made a $100 donation to State of the Heart Hospice. State of the Heart serves patients and families in western Ohio and eastern Indiana who are confronting a life-limiting illness. Shown during a check presentation, are, left to right: Ryan Gathard, Fund Development Director for State of the Heart, Linda Hall, representing the sorority, and Larry Kinneer, Development & promotion coordinator for State of the Heart.

Thursday, December 29, 2011

GREENVILLE AREA DOG CLUB OFFERS DOG TRAINING CLASSES

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GREENVILLE – Resolve to train your puppy or dog in the coming year and sign up for a Greenville Area Dog Club training session. The Greenville Area Dog Club winter session of agility, obedience, and conformation classes begins the week of January 2, 2012. A well-trained and well-socialized dog is a joy to be around. Taking a dog through GADC’s training classes helps owners achieve that goal.

The Greenville Area Dog Club will be offering classes at the former U.S. Chemical building, located in the 5400 block of State Route 49.

Obedience classes begin Tuesday, Jan. 3. Classes offered include puppy (12 weeks to five months), beginner, beginner novice, novice, open obedience, and conformation.

“Our puppy and beginning obedience classes are designed to teach basic house manners, grooming and care of the dog, heeling, sit, down, stay, and other commands,” said Barb Rhoades, director of obedience training.

Registration for obedience classes is from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3. Orientation and classes will follow registration.

Dogs must be up-to-date on vaccinations, and participants must bring a copy of the dog’s vaccination records to registration. Puppies must have had their first two sets of vaccinations to enroll in puppy class.

For information about obedience classes, please call 937-548-0338 or 937-337-0292.

Welcome 2012 By Elizabeth Horner

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I hope that you had a Happy Christmas, an Epic Holiday, and I wish you all a Blissful and Merry New Year! I am praying for special blessings in 2012 --- a year I have been waiting for all my life.

In 2012, I turn 18 years old. While many girls in the Filipino-American community get presented to the public as a lady through a ceremony called debut, I opted out of that in favor of a Kindle Fire and Netgear 300 Wireless Router connection as electronic gadgets are a necessity these days especially since I head to college in the fall of 2012, the beginning of another milestone in my life.

In 2012, I am also looking forward to my new legal rights. No, I don’t mean the right to smoke. I am not even eager to drive yet as I prefer to be sitting in the back seat of our car, writing, reading and enjoying the views and not fighting the traffic. I am referring to my legal right to sign contracts and open my own bank account without a co-signer, to voice my opinion on certain issues limited before due to my age, and yes, my right to vote, however nerdy that may sound.

To know that in the beginning, in 1776, as an independent democratic country, only white men with properties had the right to vote seems unthinkable to me. It was not until almost a century later, in 1869, when Congress passed the Fifteenth Amendment that states, “The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude”. While it was progress, significant things were still omitted.

It was only in 1920 with the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment that the right of women to suffrage was finally achieved, after a long struggle, personal sacrifices and incremental changes at the state and local levels. Along with the battle for suffrage, women had to fight for their rights to own properties. While the setting was in England for the classical movies “ Wuthering Heights ” and “Pride and Prejudice”, which I highly recommend that you watch if you have not done so, I can picture American women being in the same shoes, living in a very uncertain world highly dependent on men for the quality of their lives.

Today, some of the fervor associated with the right to vote seems missing in many citizens. Is it because life has gotten so much better that decisions, laws and regulations passed and signed into law, and practices by our elected officials really do not matter that much anymore? Are we really feeling so secure in our future and the future of our loved ones? The last time I checked what’s happening in Washington , I felt scared. I felt scared about not just my future but the future of the United States in general. Have we learned the lessons from the downfall of great civilizations? Is this country immune from collapse? Do we know the people running for office, what they stand for, and what drive their votes and decisions? I hope that those who have not registered to vote in 2012 do so, and exercise their precious right before it is too late. Let’s welcome 2012 with a new commitment to a more responsive citizenship!!!

Would You Like to Win a Gourmet Dinner?

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The Cancer Association of Darke County is holding their Gourmet Dinner Raffle once again. 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 drawing will be held on February 13th at noon; tickets available until the drawing. You do not need to be present to win.

Eikenberry’s has been generous enough to donate the ingredients for the dinner and Minuteman Press has donated the raffle 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, and Anne Brumbaugh.

The Cancer Association of Darke County is local and independent; (not affiliated with American Cancer Society.) All donations stay in the county 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 or from any board member. Tickets are $5.00 each or 6 for $25.00. For more information, please contact Christine Yount at the Cancer Association at 937-548-9960.

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

CANCER SUPPORT GROUP WILL MEET January 5, 2012

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The next meeting of the “Living with Cancer” Support Group will be held on Thursday, January 5 from 7:00 to 8:30 pm. The meeting will take place in the third floor conference room at Wayne Health Care. Christy Baker and Stephanie Lind will be sharing information about Melaleuca, a private, faith-based company that specializes in safe, all-natural, non-toxic products for your home. Christy states that the average home today contains 62 toxic chemicals. She also says that an EPA study stated that the toxic chemicals in household cleaners are 3 times more likely to cause cancer than outdoor air and cancer rates have almost doubled since 1960 and there has been a 26% increase in breast cancer since 1982. She also states that bleach is being linked to the rising rates of breast cancer in women and since 1980 asthma has increased by 600%. All of these can be linked back to the chemicals that we subject ourselves to everyday. Christy wants to share her personal experience with these not toxic products and how they may benefit those patients battling cancer.

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.

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.

Children’s Theatre Club registering members

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Children’s Theatre Club is registering members for their 2012 season. The club is a non-profit organization which offers theatre experiences for area youth. The 2012 season will offer four sessions, with each session focusing on the production of a Broadway style musical.

Session one’s production will be Children’s Letter to God and runs February 27th, 2012 thru April 22nd 2012. The musical focuses on the questions young people have about life such as; “why do pets die?” Why do parents get divorced?” “Why doesn’t this boy like me?” When no one can answer their question they turn to the one person who can. Featuring such songs as: “When I am in charge”, “Six hours as a Princess”, and “I know.” This humorous and touching show offers many acting and singing opportunities.

Session two’s production will the 1991 Tony nominated musical Once on this Island. Loosed based on Hans Christen Anderson’s The Little Mermaid and Romeo and Juliet, this musical tells the story of the young girl Ti Moune as she travels around the island trying to find meaning to her life in a world ruled by social inequality and four temperamental Gods. Featuring such beautiful and upbeat songs as: “Mama will provide”, “Why we tell the story”, and the touching “Ti Moune.” This heartfelt and moving production offers over a hundred cast members.

Session three will be the production of High School Musical. This popular Disney movie comes to the stage, in the tale of what happens when students breakaway from the stereotypical high school cliques. Including such well known songs as: “Breaking free,” “Stick to the status quo,” “We’re all in this together”, plus a couple new songs not featured in the movie.

St. Paul's Choir to Hold "Service of Lessons and Carols"

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St. Paul’s Episcopal Church “The Church with the Red Doors”

Service of Lessons and Carols
Presented by St. Paul’s Choir

Sunday, January 8, 2012

This is a beautiful English service
which tells the story of the Birth of Christ
in Scripture and music.

It is a quiet service, and a beautiful way
to end the hectic Christmas holidays.
Please join us on January 8th at 10:30 a.m.

201 South Broadway
Greenville, OH
Phone: 937.548.5575
Father Jim Larsen, Vicar

All Cordially Invited!

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

WHIOtv.com: Neighbor's Tip Leads to Arrest in Christmas Eve Burglary

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Update: Click here to read WHIO's story on their arraignment. It's also mentioned that more charges could be coming to the pair.

WHIOtv.com has the story of a watchful, proactive resident who was able to help save Christmas for a neighbor.

The neighbor witnessed men removing things from a home and loading them into a vehicle. The neighbor provided a description which matched a vehicle that was later spotted by law enforcement officers, who were able to stop and apprehend the suspects, Cody Rowe and Joshua Shepherd. Both remain in Darke County Jail. It is unknown if Santa found them there or not.



Rowe, Shepherd


Click here for the full story from WHIOtv.com

New Year’s Resolutions for Diabetics from Wayne HealtchCare

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The New Year means setting resolutions. As a diabetic, this is a great time to set realistic goals for your diabetes management. Take a few moments to reflect on your diabetes care during the past year and decide which area(s) you feel ready to make small changes. Focus on the Self Care Behavioral Goals: healthy eating, being active, monitoring, taking medication, problem solving, healthy coping, and reducing risk.
Here are some areas to focus your goals to stay healthy with diabetes:

  • Take your diabetes medications as prescribed. Consider having your physician adjust your medication or start insulin if needed to help control your blood glucose. Remember adjusting your diabetes plan of care does not mean you have failed in your diabetes management. Diabetes is a progressive disease and adjustments will need to be made on occasion.
  • Eat balanced meals which contain food items from the different food groups to provide needed nutrients. Do not skip meals. Keep your intake of carbohydrates consistent. Increase your fiber intake gradually. Limit your intake of empty calories, high sodium foods, unhealthy fats or fried food items.
  • Carry a fast acting source of carbohydrate with you to properly treat hypoglycemia when it occurs.
  • Focus on increasing your movement. Let's do the math. There are 1440 minutes in a day. Experts say you only need to be physically active for 30 of those minutes. Start out slowly and look for ways to be more active throughout the day: walk the dog, take one bag of groceries in the house at a time, park farther away in the parking lot, or walk around the room during commercials.
  • Miss fewer blood glucose checks. Observe for patterns in your blood glucose and tell your physician or educator about these patterns.
  • Get support from family, friends, etc. Let them know what type of support you need to better manage your diabetes. (Examples: place the meter on the table to remind me to test my blood glucose, call me to go for a walk, or try a new recipe with me).
  • Reduce your risk of complications by: having a diluted eye exam, check feet daily, stop tobacco use, or have your kidney function checked.


Temp Openings at GTI

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Sunday, December 25, 2011

DDN: Bradford Airman Surprises Family At UD Game

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In case you haven't seen it, check out Tom Archdeacon's great write up on a local family surprised at a recent UD Flyers' game by their son, returning from Afghanistan.

Kevin Byram, originally from Bradford, left for Afghanistan last Christmas Eve, which was the last time his parents had seen him in person. Kevin was released early and was able to arrange the surprise with the help of officials at UD.

Click here for the full story from Tom Archdeacon at the Dayton Daily News.

The Spirits of Christmas By: Elizabeth Horner

1 comment:
Sometimes during the heat of summer, I’ll hum a few bars of “Jingle Bells” or “Silent Night” to myself. It’s never by design, and I’ll switch over to a pop or country song as soon as I realize how off-key I am … or I get this little embarrassing feeling of how off-season I’m being but the words will still cycle through my head: Dashing through the snow… making spirits bright. What fun it is to ride and sing a sleighing song tonight.

Just when I think I have about exhausted singing the same verses over and over again, then a familiar chorus comes over the television, our car radio, airwaves in shopping centers, and sometimes someone in front or behind me in a line will start singing under his/her breath… and I am there, doing it right along with the person. It’s not the music that’s infectious but rather the feeling of being free and merry.

For a few precious days around the Christmas Season, the world appears to lessen or avoid their squabbles and focus on their faith, buying and giving gifts for their loved ones, preparing scrumptious meals for family and friends. Silent Night, Holy Night. All is calm, all is bright. However, reality bursts in far too quickly. As everyone returns to work and school, faces washed of their easy smiles…, we call the holiday season officially over. Songs are replaced mostly by lyrics about finding love, handling heartbreaks, or surviving struggles. Hardly anyone recalls Santa Claus though he sees you when you’re sleeping, he knows when you’re awake, he knows when you’ve been bad or good, so be good for goodness sake!

It seems a tragedy that just because we've allocated a certain time to counting our blessings and checking them twice, we think we’ve been given a license to forget the rest of the year. The pacts we make not to argue with one another over petty issues break by the time the decorations are put away. Why? Who says we have to give up the Christmas spirit at all? I understand that it is hard to be optimistic in times of economic, political or family turmoil, but that should give us all the more reason to fight for the precious unattainable diamond that is… hope…and love…. We conjure it up as we linger under mistletoe or bend to open a present, but that doesn’t mean we can’t do the same in June, July, and August while waiting for a cooling breeze.

So the next time I sense a Christmas carol lingering on my lips, forgive me if I don’t try to squelch the impulse. I don’t see those lyrics as out of place. Happy Christmas, Epic Holidays, Blissful and Merry New Year to all … let’s allow tidings of comfort and joy all year round!!!

Commisioner's Corner - December 2011

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The end of the year is just around the corner for us here in the Commissioner’s office. In our Commissioner’s Corner columns this year, and our radio appearances once a month on 95.7 F.M. the Tiger, we have tried to keep the citizens of Darke County informed as to what we are doing in the Commissioner’s office, in the courthouse, and throughout the county. This had not been tried before, so we were unsure as to how it would be received by you, the public. We have received many comments from you that these columns and programs are informative, very positive, and much appreciated. Thank You! The main purpose of these is to help us connect with all of you, and insure that we are accessible, approachable, and open to you at all times. We want to dispel the notion that we do things in secret, and without input from our employers, the public. We will continue to work very hard to earn your trust, be as open as we possibly can, and to represent all the values that Darke County possesses when we are out to other places. We are blessed in the fact that all of our media outlets are willing participants in getting information to you, and being careful watchdogs of what we are doing, to protect the people of the County. Thanks to all of you for your continued diligence and watchful eye for the people of Darke County

This column will be a little different in that we want to take the time to count the many Blessings that have happened to Darke County this year. We are blessed with the fact that the County Commissioners Association of Ohio (CCAO) has such a fine policy director in Cheryl Subler. Cheryl is one of the sweetest people we know, and is always willing to help. Cheryl is from Versailles and knows Darke County very well. Thanks, Cheryl, you’re the best. We are blessed that we now have local Representatives, Senators, and Congressmen that do have a direct tie to Darke County. People such as State Representatives Jim Buchy and Richard Adams, whom we have contacted and met with several times this year when we have a problem, or just needed advice or information, have been more than helpful and always prompt to answer. Thanks to both of you for your quick responses, your genuine concern for the people of Darke County, and your friendship. Senator Keith Faber is someone who can be contacted and he responds quickly and usually can answer your questions with one call. Senator Bill Beagle, the newest member of the Senate from our area, is truly becoming a great legislator. Senator Beagle truly does care about all of us here and spends a lot of time in our county talking to businesses and to us asking how he can help. We are lucky to have such good relationships with our Senators. Thanks to both of you. Governor John Kasich’s office is represented to us by Sandra Brasington. Sandra is one of the most conscientious people we have ever met. She always asks us “What can the Governor’s office do to help you?” The Governor’s office is very quick to respond, and it is a pleasure to deal with them, and especially with Sandra whose smile and laughter is infectious. Representative John Boehner does not get up this way very often himself, but his representatives, Ryan Day and Frank DeBrosse, are here frequently to help us however they can. Both of them are fairly young, and their enthusiasm is catching. Their assistance is truly appreciated.

Friday, December 23, 2011

Open Discussion: It's Christmas Time!!!

10 comments:
Now that we are just a few days away, we're getting into a period where many are either continuing to ramp up their excitement for the big day or may be entering some sort of holiday fatigue.

To either enhance your excitement or battle the fatigue, let us hear about what Christmas means to you. A certain tradition? Nostalgia for being a kid? Excitement for the kids? Seeing that certain part of your family that you don't get around to visiting throughout the rest of the year? Share your Christmas thoughts with a comment below!

For me, Christmas is lots of things. Probably first and foremost in terms of traditions, Christmas is cookies. Every year we have a prelude to Christmas in the form of Cookie Day, not to be underestimated as one of the most important days of the month.

Cookie Day has been going on for 30+ years in my family. Basically, as the name suggests, we get together and spend the day baking a variety of cookies that are meant to last until Christmas. This year Cookie Day was December 3rd, and the remains are pretty slim at my house... It's also just a good time to get together with family and do something productive and creative using recipes that stretch way back in the family tree (the photo above is of my great-great grandmother's Frosted Cremes), especially as the next generation comes aboard.

Of course, our view of Christmas time changed a little bit last year. It's now the time of year that we think of our daughter and the impact she has had on our lives. Of course, she looks a little different now than she did a year ago...


What does Christmas time mean to you and yours?

Marchal and Marchal Launches New Website

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Marchal and Marchal, Ltd. has launched a new website, www.marchalandmarchal.com, to better communicate with current and prospective clients. The law firm of Marchal and Marchal, Ltd. has been serving the legal needs of the citizens of Darke County for over 60 years. While staying focused on the client, the attorneys at Marchal and Marchal, Ltd. have adapted to the changes in technology to ensure that they can continue to provide the best representation possible to their clients. The firm works hard to build lasting relationships with clients to provide the stability necessary to meet clients’ legal needs today, and tomorrow.

Production Openings for FRAM Group, Greenville

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The Job Center Network of Darke County will be accepting applications for production worker positions with Fram Group.

These are full-time permanent positions for 1st, 2nd or 3rd shift with a proposed start date of 01/09/2012. Normal work week is M-F (non-mandatory overtime, but available on weekends).

Individuals must have ATTAINED A GED OR HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA.

Wage Per Hour: $10.65 - $13.45 with benefits available.

Desired Skills:
Applicants must have a full understanding of manufacturing. Individuals will be doing repetitive work and must be mechanically and technically inclined as this is a highly automated manufacturing facility. These positions would require an individual to be able to learn machine processes. Training will be provided.

DO NOT contact the company to apply for these positions.

If you *meet these minimum requirements, bring an official verification of HS Diploma or GED to complete an application at the Job Center Network of Darke County, 603 Wagner Avenue, Greenville, OH, between the hours of 8am-3pm M-F (office closed on 12/26/11). Test of Adult Basic Education will be required for those who meet the minimum requirements listed above.

*Individuals who do not bring their official verification of GED or HS Diploma will not be permitted to apply.

For a complete listing of job order # OH536794, visit www.ohiomeansjobs.com

Annual Cooper Turkey Trot 5 K Run Benefits State of the Heart Hospice

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For the fifth year, Cooper Farms held the company’s annual Turkey Trot 5 K Run and raised $2,500 for State of the Heart Hospice. Over the last five years, the annual run which is held in November has raised $13,000 for State of the Heart. Shown here in a check presentation at the Cooper Farms office in Ft. Recovery are left to right: Pauline Faller, State of the Heart Volunteer Coordinator, Deb Faller, Ryan Gathard, Fund Development Director for State of the Heart, Theresa Puthoff and Susie Fortkamp.

Versailles Area Historical Society Seeks Items for Displays

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The Versailles Area Historical Society Wishes you a Merry Christmas and is asking… “All I Want for Christmas…”

This cute Christmas song of the 1950’s could be the Dentist’s anthem, but for your Versailles Area Museum it’s the first call to filling our museum with treasures from North Star to Webster, from Osgood to New Weston, from Willowdell to Russia, from Yorkshire to Frenchtown and Versailles all points in between!

While we don’t want to be Grandma’s attic, full of things that might not mean a thing in telling our story, we are looking for some specific items now for displays that we are working on and tell the story of us! Can you help?

Here is our first “Christmas List” and we hope you can help:

  1. Items, pictures, and first person accounts (letters, diaries, news articles) about the Town Fire of 1901
  2. Photos, military articles, and first accounts from our area soldiers.
  3. Some furniture that is specifically made here or used in local homesteads.
  4. Old items from the rural schools of our area.
  5. Items from old area businesses.
  6. Versailles Railroad history.
  7. Local vintage sports memorabilia.
  8. Area civic and church history and memorabilia.

If you can donate or loan us any of these items, please call any of the museum’s Board of Trustees. They are Deb Pohl, Ron Kramer, Bev Brown, Sarah Magoto, Evelyn Simons, Alice Huffman, or Jim Kelch. We are looking forward to hearing from you! Merry Christmas!

Thursday, December 22, 2011

State of the Heart Employees Sing Christmas Carols for Patients

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The group of State of the Heart
Hospice employees gather around
Mr. and Mrs. Riffell.
(Click to enlarge)
State of the Heart Hospice patient Betty Riffell and her husband Frank of Greenville had a pleasant surprise recently when seven State of the Heart employees showed up at their doorstep to sing Christmas Carols. “This is so wonderful,” Mrs. Riffell said. “I can’t get out so it was great they came to me.” Frank and Betty are former volunteers for State of the Heart. Mr. Riffle was a volunteer chaplain in the 1990’s. The singing of Christmas carols has become a tradition for the Greenville staff. They visited the homes of several State of the Heart Hospice patients before Christmas. State of the Heart cares for patients and families in eastern Indiana and western Ohio who are confronting a life-limiting illness. Visit the agency web site at www.stateoftheheartcare.org.

State of the Heart to Offer Adult Grief Support Group

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Marlene Black
After the Christmas holidays are over, winter with its gray days, sets in in earnest. While the dreary days are difficult for many, they are particularly bad for those who are missing a loved one and who are grieving. State of the Heart Hospice will conduct an Adult Grief Support Group from January 4 to February 8.

“Grieving is a natural part of our lives,” explained Marlene Black, bereavement specialist for State of the Heart. “And, each person grieves in their own way.” She facilitates the Adult Grief Support Group which will be held each Wednesday at two times: two to 4 p.m., or 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the agency’s office, 1350 N. Broadway. The sessions are free and open to anyone who is experiencing grief and loss. A person does not have to have had experience with hospice care. Black explained that the agency is offering two different times in order to fit people’s schedules.

“People who have attended our grief support meetings come away with the realization that they are not alone in their grief, that others grieve just as they do. For many, this is helpful realizing this. People can be involved in the dialogue or can sit and listen. Those who have attended tell me they feel they have been helped and are better able to cope with their grief.”

State of the Heart Hospice, with offices in Greenville, Coldwater and Portland, cares for patients and families in eastern Indiana and western Ohio who are confronting a life-limiting illness. Grief support is an important part of the services provided by the not-for-profit.

It is necessary to register for the Adult Grief Support Group and you can do that by calling Marlene Black at 548-2999. For more information visit the agency web site at www.stateoftheheartcare.org.

NOTICE OF HOLIDAY CLOSINGS FOR COUNTY OFFICES

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NOTICE OF HOLIDAY CLOSINGS FOR COUNTY OFFICES
BY THE BOARD OF DARKE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

The County Offices will be closed for the Christmas & New Year’s Holiday on Monday, December 26, 2011 & Monday, January 2, 2012.

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

State of the Heart Hospice Names New Director of Marketing and Public Relations

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Mindy Stebbins
Mindy Stebbins has joined State of the Heart Hospice as Director of Marketing and Public Relations. A lifelong resident of Darke County, Stebbins joined the local not-for-profit agency in November after several years in marketing and health care. State of the Heart Hospice serves patients and families in eastern Indiana and western Ohio who are confronting a life limiting illness.

Just recently, Stebbins was selected by the Darke County Chamber of Commerce as one of Darke County’s “Top 20 Under 40 ” Young Professionals. She along with others were recognized and honored at a luncheon held December 9 in Greenville. A feature article about Stebbins appears in the Chamber’s recent publication, “Top Young Professionals of Darke County.” In a preface in the publication, Chamber President Sharon Deschambeau writes: “this magazine is a reminder that we are all fortunate to be surrounded by earnest, hard-working people who want Darke County to be the best place it can be for all of us.”

Of her new position, Stebbins said, “I always enjoyed working in the non-profit sector during my years at Family Health and wanted to continue that line of work. I have a passion for palliative care and I am so glad to be part of such a wonderful organization.”

DCP Thanks Arcanum HS Students

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The Darke County Park District would like to give a HUGE thank you to a group of Arcanum High School students for volunteering their time to help remove honeysuckle from the woods at Shawnee Prairie Preserve. Bush Honeysuckle is a non-native species that has spread over large areas. This invasive plant has made its way into our woodlands and is outcompeting many of our native wildflowers and having a negative impact on many native birds. By removing the honeysuckle, this will hopefully allow for native spring wildflowers to return and flourish. The students used several different tools from loppers to saws to remove the woody bush. They worked most of the day and made a big impact on the growth of honeysuckle in the woods. Thank you for all of your hard work!

If you would like to get involved, please mark your calendar for Saturday, February 25th at 10:00am and join us as we remove even more honeysuckle from Shawnee Prairie. We will have some tools available but bring gloves, chain saws, hand saws, and pruners along if you have them. Also, don’t forget to dress for the weather! Everyone is welcome. For more information, please call the Nature Center at 937.548.0165 and ask for Laura.

Senior Independence Hospice seeks "Make It Happen" Volunteers

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Senior Independence Hospice, a faith based non-profit organization serving the elderly, need volunteers for their Make it Happen program, which takes special patient final wishes and develops a plan to Make it Happen. Depending upon the nature of the individual wish, volunteers may be utilized in any of the steps of planning, development and or implementation of the wish. Volunteers, who must be at least 18 years old, should be kind and understanding with patients and their families. A criminal background check and drug test are provided.

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.

YMCA Helps Individuals and Families Succeed this Year with Creative New Year’s Resolutions

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In the coming weeks, millions of Americans will tackle the annual ritual of making New Year’s resolutions. Eat better, exercise more, lose weight, quit smoking—these are among the perennial favorites. Some will succeed, some will stumble and others, come March, will join the ranks of those vowing to try again next year. What is the secret to New Year’s resolution success? Not going it alone!

This year, the YMCA of the USA is encouraging families to put a new twist on the old custom and make resolutions for 2012 together as a family. We have worked for more than 150 years to build strong families, and see first hand, the power of a supportive community and family in achieving goals.

If you are looking for help achieving your goals, the Y is a great place to start.

  • Schedule a free visit to try the Y
  • Check out classes for every member of the family from parent/child classes for infants/toddlers to specialty classes for youth, adults and seniors
  • Meet with a trainer and get a fitness assessment
  • Enjoy family “together time” by swimming or playing basketball
  • Check out a variety of volunteer opportunities
  • Take advantage of safe, affordable and quality pre-school and school-age child care from the nation’s largest child care provider
  • Learn about financial aid opportunities that help all families participate in Y programs

Winter classes begin on January 2, 2012. Registration is now open. Visit our website at www.ymcadarkecounty.org for a complete listing of classes and programs or stop invto sign up for a class or take a tour of the facility. Find out today why the Y isn’t just a place to join, it’s a place to belong.

The YMCA of Darke County is a non-profit membership association of over 4,000 members with facilities in Greenville and Versailles. The mission of the YMCA of Darke County is to develop the whole person – spirit, mind and body – through character development programs that reinforce Christian principles and that build strong kids, strong families and strong communities.

St Paul's Episcopal Church - Chistmas Eve, The Eve of the Nativity

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A Few Choice Tidbits for a Safe Holiday

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Having a busy time getting ready for the holidays? While you are shopping, baking, gift wrapping, decorating and going to parties, the American Red Cross has 12 Holiday Safety tips to help keep the season safe, happy and bright.

1. Prepare your vehicle for traveling to grandmother’s house. Build an emergency kit and include items such as blankets or sleeping bags, jumper cables, fire extinguisher, compass and road maps, shovel, tire repair kit and pump, extra clothing, flares, and a tow rope.

2. Drive your sleigh and reindeer safely. Avoid driving in a storm. If you must travel, let someone know where you are going, the route you’re taking to get there, and when you expect to arrive. If the car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along their predetermined route. Know the weather for where you are heading!

3. Help prevent the spread of the flu. Stay home if you’re sick. Wash hands with soap and water as often as possible, or use an alcohol-based hand rub. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing, and throw the tissue away after use. If a tissue isn’t available, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.

4. Follow Santa’s fashion lead – dress in layers. When it’s cold outside, layered lightweight clothing will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat. Gloves and a hat will prevent loss of body heat. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs.

5. Use a Red Cross-trained babysitter when attending holiday festivities. Red Cross-certified babysitters learn to administer basic first aid; properly hold and feed a child; take emergency action when needed and monitor safe play. Some may be certified in Infant and Child CPR.

Guest Post: A Response to Rep. Buchy's Recent Article

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Dear Editor

In response to Mr. Buchy's recent letter in the Darke Journal, I wish to take issue with his comments concerning the new Congressional Districts.

Among his comments was this line, "I commend my colleagues who had the courage to stand against their party and support the map that has fair lines"...

From articles written by Ohio reporters it seems that these "fair lines" will heavily favor his party. So much so, that it is estimated that 12 of the 16 districts will likely elect Republicans. That would be understandable if the voting population was so inclined, but I believe that Ohio is fairly even as far as "red" and "blue" voters go. "Fair" lines? Mr. Buchy failed to share the fact that these "lines" were secretly drawn in a Columbus Hotel out of public view and under tutelage of a staff member from Mr. Boehner's staff. This is good government?

Additionally, Mr. Buchy feels that the new districts "will benefit the overall well being of Grand Lake St. Marys. It will provide access to increased federal resources and it will strengthen agriculture."

Holy cow! Aren't Grand Lake's current problems due to the heavy influence (or should I say effluence?) of agriculture? So, it's desirable to give that industry more power? I remain to be persuaded that the interest of the GOP stands with the every day citizen. While they rail against Big Government, it seems that Big Agriculture, Big Banks, Big Pharma, Big Insurance, and Big Wall Street are all OK.

Let's be a bit more reasonable in our pronouncements and not so partisan.

Joseph Hammond
Minster, Ohio

Financial Aid Night planned for high school seniors and their parents

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(Greenville) A College Financial Aid Night is planned for high school seniors and their parents at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 9, 2012, at Edison Community College in Greenville.

The program is being coordinated by Bridges to College and Edison Community College.

“If students are planning to attend college this fall, they and their parents should plan to attend this free program,” said Beth Sears, Bridges to College Executive Director.

Kristina Pruett, coordinator of grants and scholarships at Edison Community College, will give an overview of the financial aid process including filling out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).

“College students who are seeking federal grants, loans or work-study must fill out the FAFSA,” Sears said.

The deadline for completing the FAFSA varies per college, but most deadlines are in late winter or early spring. Students should check with their colleges to find out what the colleges’ financial aid deadlines are.

“Students miss out on financial aid opportunities because they miss these important deadlines,” Sears said.

Sears emphasized that this financial aid night is for students who are applying to any college – not just Edison Community College.

“We are working with Edison to offer this program because, in the past, many parents have asked for more information about the financial aid component,” Sears said.

Bridges to College is a non-profit organization that helps more students go to college through mentoring, programming and scholarships. While it serves students in the Greenville and Ansonia school districts, it is offering this program to all Darke County high school seniors and their parents.

For more information about the Financial Aid Night, please contact Beth Sears, Executive Director of Bridges to College, at 423-2442 or 548-4188, ext. 896, or email her at bsears@greenville.k12.oh.us.

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Christmas Morning Celebration

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Trinity Lutheran of Versailles and our friends at Friedens invite you and your family to join our family as we celebrate with great joy the birth of the Christ Child.

On Christmas morning at 10:00 a.m. we will share a family worship service (less formal, come as you are) with the great carols of the season, special music and a sermon by Pastor Bob Akins, our interim Pastor for children and adults alike. Holy Communion will be offered and all will be in our beautifully decorated sanctuary at the corner of Wood and Steffin Streets in Versailles.

Be sure to come early for delicious coffee cake, fruit juice and coffee. Will warm your stomach, touch your heart and have you on the road to Grandma’s house in about one hour.

Come and share in the reason for the season, the birth of Jesus!

Two Arrested on Drug Charges

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Johnson, Cantrell

On December 19, 2011 at approximately 4:25 p.m., the Darke County Drug task Force, along with members of the Greenville Police Department, conducted a narcotics investigation in the 800-block of Martin Street in Greenville.

As a result of the investigation, detectives recovered cocaine, crack cocaine, marijuana, cash, and a vehicle.

21-year-old D’Laquan Lavell Cantrell was arrested on drug trafficking and driving under suspension charges. 21-year-old Michael C. Johnson was also arrested on drug trafficking and drug possession charges. Cantrell and Johnson are from Dayton, and were incarcerated at the Darke County Jail. 21-year-old Todd Z. Cummings, also from Dayton, was cited for possession of marijuana and released. A fourth subject from Dayton was not charged.

Anyone with drug information is encouraged to contact the Greenville Police Department at 937-548-1103.

Monday, December 19, 2011

Food Drive is a Success

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On Sunday Dec 11th The Score Board Sports Club hosted the First Annual Food Drive sponsored by Greenville's two internet radio stations Wild Horse Radio and Wave96. With some class A entertainment. On the bill was Ryan Broshear, Jen Fisher of Sugar Shot, Todd Berry, Clark Manson and Mark Cantwil to round out the night. And to give back to those who gave, they had several raffles that evening.

"We had a great night of entertainment and collected alot of food and 106 dollars to donate to the Fish Food Bank. I want to thank Store Manager Mike Walker of Lowes,Store Manger Josh Wagner of Wal Mart, Game Stop, Cavalier Clothing, Aaron and Betsy Ward of A & B Coffee and Cakes for all their donations. And several Independent Artist for donating their CD's to give out." said Jeff Zumbrun of Wild horse Radio. "With great artist such as Brittney Jones, Darin Warner, Sugar Shot, Ryan Broshear, Jessicia Lynn and Jody Direen giving up their Cd's for the cause we were able to give back to some of those who gave. And a huge Thank you go out to Jack and Polly Alexander for giving us a place to hold our event."

With several events planned 2012 is promising to be the Year of The Wild Horse.

GTS Holiday Hours

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Versailles Church to Continue Tradition of Candlelight

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This Christmas Eve Trinity of Versailles will continue the tradition begun over 80 years ago as one of the first local churches to offer the old German Candlelight service for Christmas Eve.

Many Christmas’s have been welcomed at Trinity over the years (and in all kinds of weather) from a Great Depression, a World War, several blizzards and even a 25 degree below zero cold spell have happened and yet this tradition continues.

This year will be no different as the congregation invites you and your family to join us in celebrating the birth of the Christ Child!

The evening will begin with a recital of beautiful music for the season featuring Mrs. Karen Lawrence, long time organist of Trinity and Deirdre Grennan at the harp.

The service will begin at 11:00 p.m. as the sanctuary will go from near darkness to light. The time honored German tradition of the singing of “Silent Night” as the candle flame is passed to all as we symbolically fill the world with God’s holy light will as usual, be a highlight!

The remainder of the service will be filled with scripture and familiar carols. Pastor Bob Akins, interim Pastor at Trinity will offer an inspirational message and the Chancel Choir will offer a special anthem for this evening. The service will conclude with the service of Holy Communion.

To enhance your worship experience, Trinity’s magnificent stain glass windows will be illuminated and over fifty candles and hundreds of white lights will fill the sanctuary with light.

Please come, and be a part of our tradition. Come to Trinity and join us in welcoming the Christ Child among us!

Versailles Bowling Results

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Lady Tiger Bowlers Beat New Bremen

The Versailles Girls Varsity Bowling Team traveled to Pla-Mor Lanes in Coldwater on Saturday, December 17 to bowl against the New Bremen Cardinals. The Lady Tigers rolled a 770 to New Bremen’s 525. Freshman Megan Ward was the lead bowler with a 179. Versailles almost equaled their 1st game score by rolling a 767 to the Cardinals 492. Megan Ward once again led the Tigers with a 190.

Versailles went into the baker games with a 520 pin lead and won 4 out of the 5 baker games. The Lady Tigers ended the match with a total pin count of 2281 to New Bremen’s 1649. The Lady Tigers are now 4-1 on the season and currently reside in 2nd place behind Coldwater and St. Marys who are both at 5-0.

The girls travel to Woodcrest Lanes in Union City to take on the Lady Roughriders of St. Marys on Thursday, December 29 at 3:00 pm. Please visit www.wohsbc.com for in depth stats and conference standings.

Correction to last week’s article: Megan Monnin set a new school record for the High 2 Game Series with a 455. Congratulations, Megan!

Tiger Boys Varsity Bowling goes to 5-0

The Versailles Boys Varsity Bowling team hit the road for Week 5 action at Pla-Mor Lanes in Coldwater on Saturday, December 17, to take on the Celina Bulldogs. "This team can really sneak up on you as they have a couple kids that can roll some big scores. With bowling 2nd shift behind St. Henry and LCC, the lanes will dry out and change on every shot, so be ready to make big adjustments." Versailles came out strong by beating Celina in game one 916 to 759. In game two the Tigers outscored the Bulldogs with 894 pins to Celina’s 828, giving Versailles a lead of 223 pins going into the baker games.

Celina took the first two baker games with scores of 213 to 202 and 179 to 175. Versailles fought back and won the third and fourth baker games with scores of 186 to 153 and 212 to 105. The Tigers, however, came out on top with a match total of 2,723 pins to Celina’s 2,380. The Tigers were led by Ben Didier with a 216 and Nathan Peters with a 201. This victory over the Bulldogs brings the Tigers’ record to 5 – 0. After week 5, there is a cluster of good teams at the top of the conference. Versailles, Wapakoneta, Coldwater and Ottawa Glandorf.

The Tigers will travel to Miracle Lanes in Ft. Recovery on Wednesday, December 28, at 1 p.m. to face the Van Wert Cougars and then on to Speedway Lanes in New Bremen on Thursday, December 29, at 10 a.m. to take on the Ottawa Glandorf Titans. Video Highlights of the girls and boys varsity matches are posted here: http://wosn.mediacore.tv/media/highlight-wohsbc-matches-2. Please visit www.wohsbc.com for in depth stats and conference standings.

Special Board Meeting for Dark County Park District Board of Commissioners

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The Darke County Park District Board of Commissioners will hold a Special Board Meeting on Friday, December 30, 2011 at 7:30 a.m. at the Nature Center located at 4267 St. Rt. 502, Greenville, Ohio. This meeting will be to approve the 2012 Park District Appropriations Budget and 2012 Holiday and Nature Center Closings Schedule, as well as, matters of personnel.

Greenville Eagles 2177… Santa’s visit a special day of magic

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Click on an image to enlarge...

“That’s just Santa’s helper, right? The real Santa is at the North Pole right now?”

“No… that’s the real Santa. He came here just for all of you.”

“But shouldn’t he be making toys?”

“He is. He’s making toys. He’s visiting children everywhere. And he’s here visiting us.”

The boy – about five or six – was skeptical.

“Okay. How do you think he gets all those toys in his bag and on his sled, then takes them to the boys and girls all over the world in one night?”

“Well… his bag is magic.”

“And so is he. And his sled. He can be anywhere he wants to be… all at one time. Everything about Santa is magic. You believe in Santa, don’t you?”

Enthusiast nod.

“Then you have to believe in the magic of Christmas and the gifts he brings us. Oops. Your turn. Santa’s waiting for you…”

Convinced… maybe… the young boy bounced up on the stage to give Santa his Christmas list.

Santa’s recent visit to The Greenville Eagles was enjoyed by more than 100 children and grandchildren of Eagles members. Members appreciated Santa’s devotion and attention to the children, noting the time he spent with each individual child.

“You could see he really wanted to make this special for the kids,” said one member.

At Santa’s request, Aerie President Steffanie Baker and Auxiliary President Lois Fowble, handed out his toys to each child after he visited with them. Every present had the child’s name on it and was brought straight from the North Pole especially for that child.

The Eagles also handed out sacks of candy and fruit to the children during its annual Kids Christmas Party.

Greenville Eagles 2177 is a fraternal organization devoted to service to the community, its youth and its members. Membership applications are available to anyone over 21. They can be filled out at the Downtown facility on Third Street.

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Guest Column from State Representative Jim Buchy Partisan Politics Aside for a Single Primary and Savings for the Tax Payer

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This past week, I voted in favor of Sub House Bill 369, which created one primary and settled the dispute over new congressional maps. Every 10 years Ohio lawmakers gather to draw new congressional district lines, a process undertaken by leadership in the General Assembly. I have been a part of this process twice before. Never have I witnessed the minority party create as much havoc and confusion at the drawing table as they did during this year. However, Wednesday night we finally gained enough support from the minority party to settle on a bill and hold only one primary. I commend my colleagues who had the courage to stand against their party and support the map that has fair lines and increases African American and other minority representation.

The reason for two primaries and all this confusion goes back to a deal that was made this fall between the minority and majority to push the primary back to May. At the last minute, minority leadership pulled out of that deal, which led to the eventual chaos.

I fundamentally oppose holding two separate primaries. Two primaries would result in reduced voter turnout and an expense to tax payers of $15 million. The other side backed us against a wall with a choice of two primaries or disenfranchising our military voters. In that situation, it was a difficult, but necessary decision to vote in favor of two primaries. On Wednesday, I had the opportunity to support one primary election. Many good statesmen from both sides of the aisle put aside their differences and did the right thing for Ohioans.

This agreement provides a map with more compact congressional districts and one primary on March 6th. The primary held on March 6th will align Ohio with Super Tuesday, a day when presidential primaries are held across the country. To cut down on confusion and costs, anyone who filed for the March 6th primary by the December 7th deadline will be on the March 6th primary ballot. In addition, the US Senate race, Presidential race, and the Congressional races will have another deadline 11 days from the signing of the new redistricting bill.

The map provides a slight change to our local congressional districts. Preble County and Darke County will still be part of District 8, a seat currently held by Speaker Boehner. This district will include Butler, Clark, Darke, Miami, and Preble counties. Mercer County will be split into three congressional districts that converge at Grand Lake St. Marys. District 5, currently represented by Congressman Latta, will cover most portions of northwest Ohio and will include over 50 percent of the land territory in Mercer County including Celina. District 4, currently represented by Congressman Jordan will extend from Lorain and Sandusky counties to Champaign and Shelby counties. The district includes Allen and Union counties. It includes Franklin Township and Grand Lake St. Marys in Mercer County. District 8 currently held by Congressman Boehner will include the southern portion of Mercer County including Coldwater.

The new map is favorable to our region. Although a single congressional district in Mercer County would be less confusing, the new three-congressmen approach will benefit the overall well being of Grand Lake St. Marys. It will provide access to increased federal resources and it will strengthen agriculture. The biggest advantage of the new map is that it avoids two primaries and saves the taxpayers money. As your state representative, I will continue to look for ways to avoid government waste and keep your taxes low.

Santa to Return to the Coffee Pot One More Time

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Santa will be visiting us again this weekend! Saturday (today!) from 2-4 pm and Sunday from 2-4 pm. This will be the last time he visits The Coffee Pot before heading back to the North Pole to prepare for Christmas Eve!


Click here for our Facebook page - "like" our page and you will be automatically entered into a weekly drawing for a free drink of your choice! Drawings will be held every Friday! Good luck and thank you for the support! - Rob & Amber Garrett

BRC Seeking Staff Pastor

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Locals Hold Benefit and Auction for Fish Choice Pantry

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Pictured above in left picture are (l-r): Tom Flatter, Gary Snider, Rob Fitzgerald, Joyce Matix, Judith Dill & Vicki Bragg.; in right picture: Rob Fitzgerald, Denny Copeland, Connie Taulbee, Caren Long, Trace & Sandy Snyder. Attendees also donated over 300 pounds of non-perishable foods.

Carla Kimmel has felt the struggle with the economy. Her family is doing better now, they've recently found employment, but last summer she found herself standing in food pantry lines. She couldn't believe she was there. One of the places where she received help was the Fish Choice Pantry in Greenville. She didn't want to be there, but was very grateful she had somewhere to go for help. She hasn't forgotten how grateful she felt then. This Christmas season she decided she wanted to give back. On December 9th there was a Christmas Dinner Benefit and Auction held with donations going to the Fish Choice Pantry. The party was hosted by Carla Kimmel & Kent Klosterman and held at the Eagles Lodge in Greenville, the Eagles donating the space. Food was provided by Carla and some friends. Classified, a classic rock band from the Greenville area performed with all proceeds from the band and the auction being donated. Members of the band include: Rob Fitzgerald, Robbie Jones and Larry Badger.

Cancer Association Thanks CenturyLink for generous donation

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Left to right Marilyn Emmons, Board Member and Treasurer of Cancer Association of Darke County, Rick Krogman, Area Plant Supervisor at CenturyLink, Christine Yount, Executive Director or Cancer Association of Darke County, and Susan Fowble, Administrative Assistant at CenturyLink.

CenturyLink has a rich history of supporting local communities. “Our employees live and work and raise their families here,” said Rick Krogman, CenturyLink Supervisor.

“We’re proud to work for a local company improving lives and communities in Darke County. CenturyLink supports the area through financial and volunteer investments, including the Chamber of Commerce, economic development initiatives, education, United Way, and culture and arts, among others. CenturyLink employees volunteer hundreds of hours to help make the region a better place to live and work. We are pleased to support the Cancer Association of Darke County, where valuable programs help raise healthy communities. “

“CenturyLink’s recent acquisitions have greatly expanded the size and reach of our company as we are now the third largest telecommunications company in the United States, but the attention and care given to local markets still remains. CenturyLink is a solid, stable company with deep roots in local Ohio markets. Our investments have laid the foundation for consumers to benefit and enjoy and to help Ohio business compete at both the national and local level.”

Fuller Center for Housing Now Accepting Applications

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Darke County Fuller Center for Housing is now accepting applications for needed home improvement projects. We are scheduling for this next spring and summer building season. The Fuller Center is named for Millard and Linda Fuller who were the original founders of Habitat for Humanity and formed a new mission based upon their original covenants.

The Fuller Center for Housing is a Christian based non-profit housing program that not only builds houses but does home improvement projects for low income home owners. The home improvement projects are called The Greater Blessing Box Program and are based upon the Biblical principle of ”it is more blessed to give than to receive“. The projects can be as simple as a new hot water heater or as elaborate as new roofing.

The mission also rehabs houses for home ownership as well as builds new homes as need warrants. There is an application process and applications are available at the Darke County Fuller Center Office at 440 Wayne Avenue in Greenville.

The application process includes an income review and evaluation of need among other considerations. For more information please call John Hensley, Executive Director, at 548-3635.

Our Darke County mission began in 1992 with our affiliation with Habitat for Humanity and we have built fifteen homes and numerous other projects in Darke county. Our new affiliation will allow the mission to serve more of our people in Darke County by focusing on upgrading substandard housing. Interested volunteers and church groups can also contact our office for information and project schedules. Members of the Ministerial Association will receive a packet with applications to post for their congregations to distribute to those in need.

The Fuller Center also maintains a ReUse Store at 440 Wayne Avenue as our primary fundraiser, making donated items available to the general public at minimal cost.

Friday, December 16, 2011

WCPO.com: Anonymous Donors Paying off Kmart Layaway Accounts

2 comments:
Feeling not so in the spirit of the season? Check out this story from WCPO.com. Apparently, in a growing trend people are anonymously paying off K-Mart layaway accounts, focusing on accounts with large numbers of toys put away, and showing a preference for families who are struggling to afford gifts for their children.

The story specifically details one woman who physcially showed up to pay off accounts and stayed to pass out $50 bills to people as they entered, refusing to provide her name or story beyond telling them to "remember Ben," in memory of her recently deceased husband.

Excuse me, it's all dusty in here and I seem to have gotten something in my eye...

Drivers in Thursday Night Collision Identified

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On December 15, 2011 at approximately 8:33 PM, Darke County Deputies, along with Ansonia Fire and Rescue, and Careflight, were dispatched to the intersection of U. S. Route 127 at State Route 185 in reference to a two vehicle injury accident.

Prelimary investigation revealed that a silver 2006 Dodge truck, driven by Joseph Fortkamp, 35, Rossburg, was westbound on State Route 185 when he failed to yield at a stop sign and drove into the intersection and struck the side of a 2000 Volvo semi tractor trailer, driven by Robert D. Baker, 59, Ludlow Falls, which was southbound on U. S. Route 127. The semi tractor trailer, which was hauling seven brand new Chevy pickups, came to a stop on U. S. Route 127, completely blocking the roadway.

Fortkamp was airlifted to Miami Valley Hospital, where he is listed in critical condition. Baker was transported to Wayne Hospital in Greenville by Ansonia Rescue, and later transferred to Miami Valley Hospital, where he is listed in stable condition. U. S. Route 127 was closed to traffic for over seven hours while crews cleaned up the wreckage.

The accident remains under investigation by the Darke County Sheriff's Department.

WHIOtv.com: Small Business Owners Seeking "Sensible Regulations"

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WHIOtv.com has a feature on some local small business owners who are seeking "sensible regulations" in an effort to keep costs down to encourage growth. They are part of a campaign called "Small Business for Sensible Regulations" which is pushing back against regulations that can cost up to $10,000 per employee to meet.

Click on the image below for the full video from WHIOtv.com


Auto Accident at 127 and 185 Closes Intersection for Hours

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WHIOtv.com has the story and video this morning of an accident that occurred last night at the intersection of US 127 and State Route 185 near Versailles. They report that a small pickup truck apparently ran a stop sign and collided with a loaded car carrier, which was full of 2012 Chevrolet trucks. The driver of the pickup was taken to Miami Valley Hospital via Care Flight, while the driver of the car carrier was treated at Wayne Health Care for minor injuries.

Click on the image below for the full story from WHIOtv.com

CBC CELEBRATES SEASON OF GIVING ‘GOOD THINGS COME’ TO HOLIDAY BLOOD DONORS

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Darke County – The last week of the year is often the most challenging for the Community Blood Center (CBC). The demand for an ample blood supply just doesn’t take time off between Christmas and New Year’s Day. That’s why CBC is asking donors to make helping save lives their perfect New Year’s resolution, and to remember that “Good Things Come to Those who Give Blood.”

CBC is honoring those who share this most precious gift with the final week of the special holiday edition t-shirt. Now through Saturday, December 31 anyone who registers to donate blood at all CBC branches and most CBC blood drives will receive the “Good Things Come to Those Who Give Blood” t-shirt. The words are in the red and green colors of the season and are arranged to form the shape of a holiday gift box against a white background.

The “Good Things Come to Those Who Give Blood” message is especially important during the busy holiday period. With schools on holiday break, many businesses closed or short-handed, and families vacationing and traveling, it is a challenging time for CBC to keep area hospitals supplied with the blood they demand.

“Please don’t forget us when you make your list of holiday activities and gifts for loved ones,” asks CBC Donor Relations Director Andrew Keelor. “The gift of life you give to a stranger this holiday season could very well be your most generous and wonderful gift of all.”

MERCER SAVINGS BANK SUPPORTS ARTS IN EDUCATION

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Mercer Savings Bank has once again donated funds to sponsor Darke County Center for the Arts’ Arts in Education program. According to a DCCA representative, “Mercer Savings Bank helps enable DCCA to fulfill its goal of annually bringing performing artists to every grade of each Greenville City and Darke County school to educate, inspire creativity, and increase awareness of diverse cultures for the children of our community.”

Arts In Education programs in the 2011/2012 season included Kuniko Yamamoto’s Mask, Mime and Music of Japan for students in grades K through 3. Lyle Cogen presented Sticks and Stones, a dramatic program on bullying in schools, to students in grades 4 through 6. Physical comedian Robert Post held the attention of both Junior High and Senior High school students with Post Comedy Theatre.

For more information on Darke County Center for the Arts or how to become a sponsor please contact DCCA at (937) 547-0908 or DCCA@CenterForArts.net.

Thursday, December 15, 2011

OHIO BLUE RIBBON ARSON COMMITTEE AWARDS INFORMANT

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On July 16, 2010 at approximately 11:46 p.m., the Greenville Police Department began receiving reports of fires in the downtown area. Once fire control measures were completed, investigators from the Division of State Fire Marshal, the Greenville Fire Department, and the Greenville Police Department began investigating the origin and cause of the fire. Investigators were able to determine the fires were intentionally set by unknown suspect(s).

In August 2010, investigators with the Greenville Police Department obtained information and assistance from a confidential informant which lead to the arrest and conviction of Michael J. MacDonald and a male juvenile.

On December 14, 2011, the Greenville Police Department presented a check to the confidential informant in the amount of $3500 from the Ohio Blue Ribbon Arson Committee for the assistance rendered in bringing the investigation to a successful conclusion.

Chief Dennis L. Butts of the Greenville Police Department, and Chief Mark Wolf of the Greenville Fire Department want to remind the community that the public safety departments and the citizens must work together to ensure the safety and quality of life in our community. Without the help of the confidential informant, this case may have remained unsolved.

Wittler's Black Belt Academy Offers Christmas Special

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Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas! We are a Tae Kwon Do studio teaching students as young as four with no one being too old. We are located in the old Marsh Plaza. You can take one free class after filling out a student application. Group rates are available. We require no contracts. Just one month to month flat rate for as many classes you wish to take.

We are offering a Self Defense special for Christmas! For the month of December, ten Self Defense classes for just $20.00 (+ tax). That is just $2.00 a class! You can buy as many as you want. They do not expire until December of 2012.

“Sunday Afternoon at the Museum” to Return this Winter

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The Versailles Area Historical Society is excited to announce its new lecture series for this upcoming winter. “Sunday Afternoon at the Museum” was such a wonderful success, we are thrilled to be able to offer it again!

This year’s series begins on January 15, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. when we welcome Versailles native, Jack Turpen in “Versailles Remembered” a visual film made by C.E. Pitsenbarger in the 1930’s of the Versailles businesses that thrived after the 1901 fire.

The second event will be on February 19, 2012 when we welcome Darke County author, Rita Arnold who will share the paranormal activities around the county. Several members of the Darke County Center for the Arts will share several stories in the first person. Come and bring your local tales to tell!

Get out your dancing shoes and your appetite! Our last afternoon will be on March 18, 2012 when Jimmy Baltes, Ann Subler, & Suzie Barga will be remembering the old days in Frenchtown. From Baltes’ to the Crystal Ballroom, great times will be shared, bring your souvenirs and who knows maybe we’ll even get a song or two!

A special treat is coming in June:

The Versailles Area Historical Society is excited to announce a special “Sunday Afternoon at the Museum”. On Father’s Day, June 17, 2012 we will welcome to the museum Versailles High School Alumni and Ohio Northern University, and the University of Richmond (Virginia) graduate and Civil War expert, Ryland Breeding. He will return home to share a presentation entitled “Faith of Our Fathers, Ohioans in the Civil War”. This is one afternoon you will not want to miss! Plan now on attending and welcoming home our local scholar and treat Dad to a very special afternoon.

TRINITY OF VERSAILLES TO HOST ANNUAL BLUE CHRISTMAS SERVICE

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Is this Christmas season a time of mixed emotion for you? Yet it is a time to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Not everyone is in a cheery mood, ready to celebrate the Christmas holidays!

Dealing with the death of a loved one; facing life after divorce or separation; coping with the loss of a job; living with a health issues; and a number of other situations can make the Christmas season “blue.”

For this reason, Trinity Lutheran Church at 204 E. Wood Street in Versailles will be hosting a “Blue Christmas” Worship Service on Wednesday, December 22nd at 7:00 p.m. This service is unique in that it seeks to give space and time for loss in the midst of celebration. In this service, quiet songs and contemplative readings offer support and strength for the journey through the holiday season. Our hope is that worshipers will hear the word of God at this special time and will help them move from sadness to comfort and hope.

Our service is open to everyone!

We hope that you will come and feel comfort in joining us for this special worship experience as we share in one another’s sorrows as well as the joy of the birth of the Christ child.

You are also invited to attend the Versailles Community Meal that is also held at Trinity in the church basement prior to the worship. Serving times begins at 5:00 until 6:30 p.m. So please come and share with others your grief and let the joy of the season come into your heart.
We wish you all a Blessed Christmas Season.

If you have questions you may call the church at 937-526-3091 or find us on the web at trinityofversailles.org.

Wayne HealthCare Earns ACR Accreditation

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Greenville, Ohio — Wayne HealthCare has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in mammography as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology (ACR). Mammography is a specific type of imaging test that uses a low-dose x-ray system to examine breasts. A mammography exam, called a mammogram, is used to aid in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases in women.

The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting ACR Practice Guidelines and Technical Standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures, and quality assurance programs are assessed. The findings are reported to the ACR Committee on Accreditation, which subsequently provides Wayne HealthCare with a comprehensive report they can use for continuous practice improvement.

The ACR is a national professional organization serving more than 34,000 diagnostic/interventional radiologists, radiation oncologists, nuclear medicine physicians, and medical physicists with programs focusing on the practice of medical imaging and radiation oncology and the delivery of comprehensive health care services.

Learning Center Spreads Holiday Spirit

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The Workshop Learning Center has been busy this December spreading the holiday spirit. The Workshop’s Elves Community Orchestra began rehearsing in mid-November for their Christmas performances. Director, Michelle Drees, is excited about the formation of this group. “I love watching students share their passion for music. I’m grateful for the opportunity to help these young stars shine.” The group performed twice on Saturday, December 10th, at the Third Street Market and at the Greenville Public Library’s Open House. The group has two more scheduled performances Thursday, December 14th at The Coffee Pot starting at 6:30 and on Friday at the Sterling House starting at 3:30.

The Workshop Learning Center offers a wide range of supplemental educational services. “We are very excited about our expanding offerings starting the first of the year.” quotes the director, Michelle Drees. New group classes included OGT & ACT prep courses and a study hour to help students complete homework. These classes will be in addition to the private academic tutoring The Workshop already offers.

For more information find us online at www.theworkshoplc.com or call 937-459-5937.

DCP Thanks Bowman Produce and Greenhouses

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Darke County Parks would like to thank Bowman Produce and Greenhouses for their donation of pumpkins for the Great Pumpkin Hunt. Thank you!

Trinity this Sunday

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It’s beginning to look a lot like… “Advent”. We all do it; we jump to the next big thing like spring and Easter. But just like there couldn’t be Easter without Good Friday, there can’t be Christmas without Advent!

So why don’t you join us and our family at Trinity of Versailles as we celebrate the fourth Sunday of Advent as we prepare for the birth of the Christ Child. Worship begins at 10:30 a.m.

This Sunday we will abbreviate our worship so that we might enjoy the hard work of our youngest as they present their annual Christmas Pageant.

Our special musical guest will be Emily Werling, a student from Capital University and Pastor Bob Akins will inspire us with his message. All are invited to Christian Education in the church basement at 9:15 a.m.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

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Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, December 24th, 8:30 PM at First United Methodist Church, corner of 4th and Sycamore, in Greenville.

The public is invited to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas at First United Methodist Church, 202 W. 4th St., in Greenville. This is a Classic, traditional service with words of hope, beautiful carol singing, special music, and warm candlelight. All are welcome and encouraged to attend. Come early. God will bless you.

The next day, join us for Sunday worship on December 25th at the special time of 10:30 AM. A Community Christmas Feast follows at 12:30 PM (Reservations requested, call 548-3075.

Fort GreeneVille Chapter DAR News

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Fort GreeneVille Chapter held a Christmas Luncheon at the Shawnee Prairie Nature Center in Greenville, OH.

DAR members pictured around the chapter's sponsored Christmas tree are: Linda Riley, Joann Fisher, Chris Nehring, Michelle Alderman, Carolyne Blankenship, Debbie Nisonger, Doris Aultman, Cindy Austin, Shirley Hughes, Karen Burkett, Mary Bankson, Margaret Constable, Edith Bertrum, Brenda Arnett, Mary Jane Dietrich, Helen Wright, Bobbie Stahl, Alice Huffman, Taylor Nehring, and Penny Weaver.

Fort GreeneVille Chapter sponsored and decorated a Christmas tree at the Darke County Park District's Shawnee Prairie Nature Center. The tree was decorated with a patriotic DAR theme. DAR's motto is God, Home, and Country.

Members decorating the tree were Regent Chris Nehring, Edith Bertrum, Doris Aultman, Debbie Nisonger, and Helen Wright.

Fort GreeneVille Chapter DAR recently donated mittens and gloves to the FISH Mitten Tree located at the Brethren Retirement Community. The Mitten Tree benefits children involved in Darke County Head Start programs.

Pictured are members: Taylor Nehring, Debbie Nisonger, Ellen Shields, Linda Riley, Shirley Hughes, Mary Bankson, Chris Nehring, Helen Wright, Carolyn Blankenship, Mary Jane Dietrich, and Brenda Arnett.

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