Tuesday, December 29, 2015

Greenville Woman in Critical Condition After Car Strikes Semi

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On December 28, 2015 at approximately 11:34 am, Darke County Deputies along with Tri-Village Rescue, Greenville Township Rescue, and New Madison Fire, responded to the intersection of US RT 127 and State Route 722 in the Village of Castine on a report of an injury accident with entrapment.

Preliminary investigation revealed a black 2004 Honda Accord driven by Sharon K. Fourman 64, Greenville, OH. was traveling Eastbound on State Route 722 and failed to yield the right-of-way at a stop sign to Jeffrey A. White 53, Lewisburg, OH. who was traveling Southbound on US RT 127 driving a white 2008 Peterbilt semi tractor trailer. Fourmans vehicle struck the passenger side of the semi tractor causing the semi to jackknife. Greenville City Fire also responded to the accident with their Hazmat trailer to assist with a diesel fuel clean up. Ohio State Highway Patrol Motor Carrier Enforcement also responded to assist with a safety inspection of the semi tractor and trailer.

Fourman was extricated by mechanical means by New Madison Fire Department and was transported to Miami Valley Hospital by Tri-Village Rescue where she is currently listed in critical condition. White was uninjured in the accident.

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

Do You Know the Password?

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The year is 1928, Prohibition is alive and well. But if you knew the “right people” you could still partake all over Darke County! In fact some of the best moonshine made traveled all the way to the streets and clubs of Chicago. After all it was the best made.

From the Ragtime music, to a delicious “blue plate” diner special like Mom use to make, our evening is sure to entertain and help bring back the excitement, fun and maybe even some of the danger of the Roaring Twenties!

On Saturday evening February 6th in the Father Jackle Room of the Versailles Knights of Columbus Hall the Versailles Area Museum will recreate this bygone era for your pleasure. In the past two years we’ve done a more formal and historically correct dinner. Our 2016 dinner is all about fun! You are encouraged to come dressed in the style from zoot suits to flapper dresses it’s sure to be keen. Join us for this fun night. Appetizers will be served at 6:15 and dinner to follow at 7:00 p.m.

Tickets are still $50.00 each for non-members and $45.00 for members. A cash bar will be available to sample the adult beverages of the period!

Get your friends together and join us for a “roaring” good time! Even though the museum is closed in January, tickets are still available by contacting the museum at 526-4222 and leave your request. We will call you back to work out all the details. Tables of eight are available and we will honor seating requests as best we can. Seating is limited so don’t wait, call today and travel with us down the historic road to 1928!

Art at the Preble County Courthouse

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Preble County Art Association’s Youth for Public Art (YPA) students created two totem poles, one animal and one face themed. Each of the totems consist of 27 hand sculpted clay mini sculptures threaded on a pole that stands over 5 feet high. Each piece was created from raw clay material that was formed, fired and glazed to create the final animal or head. The project was worked on twice weekly for approximately 6 weeks. Totem poles created by the YPA students are currently on display at the Preble County Courthouse and will remain on display through January. The courthouse is located at 101 E. Main St. in Eaton, Ohio.

Youth for Public Art is a program that currently serves at-risk teen boys in Preble County. The boys work with a professional artist to make public art and build skills in art, teamwork, problem solving and community development. The Art Association also provides a family style dinner during which they reflect on challenges or progress made. Transportation for many of the students is also provided.

The Preble County Art Association (PCAA) is a nonprofit organization fueling creativity in Preble County. The PCAA operates the Visual Art Center at 601 Hillcrest Dr. in Eaton which also house the Clay Cafe, a paint your own pottery studio. More information can be found at www.takepartinart.net. For questions, call 937-456-3999.

Help Wanted at The YMCA of Darke County

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The YMCA of Darke County is looking for a few good people to hire! We are looking for friendly faces to work at our Welcome Center! Member Service is our number one priority, so we are looking for someone to greet every person who walks through the door with a smile. Qualified applicants should possess telephone and computer skills, as well as the Y's core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

Submit application and/or resume to Shanna Good at sgood@ymcadarkecounty.org. SHARE this with someone you think would be perfect for the job! See our website at http://ymcadarkecounty.org/employment-opportunities/ for a printable application and more information.

New Year, New Hike with DCP

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Hikers stand in awe of the stunning winter landscape.
The chilly winter weather brings with it unique hiking opportunities, and Darke County Parks is going to seize them. On Monday January 4th at 8am join a naturalist at Routzong Preserve south east of Greenville on Routzong Rd. just off of St. Rt. 571 for an exciting winter walk. Who knows what the New Year’s weather will bring, so keep the conditions in mind when you dress for the hike. For more information about this or any of the other exciting hikes in this season’s series or other Park District programs, please call the Nature Center at (937) 548-0165.

The Ohio State University Extension Small Farm Program announces the 2016 Ohio New and Small Farm Colleges

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Are you a small farm landowner wondering what to do with your acreage? Are you interested in exploring options for land uses but not sure where to turn or how to begin? Have you considered adding an agricultural or horticultural enterprise but you just aren’t sure what is required, from an equipment, labor, and/or management perspective? Are you looking for someplace to get basic farm information? If you or someone you know answered yes to any of these questions, then the OSU Extension Small Farm College program may be just what you are looking for.

OSU Extension is offering a program targeted at the new and small farmer. The Ohio New and Small Farm College is an 8 week program that introduces new and even seasoned farmers to a wide variety of topics. The program will teach participants how to set goals, plan, budget, and where to find resources available for them if they chose to start a small farming operation. The courses will layout how to manage financial and farm records. Extension Educators will illustrate many different enterprises that can be profitable on land as small as one acre. The educators will show the benefits and pitfalls of each enterprise so that the participant will be able to pick and chose what may work best for them and what suits their interest.

The Small Farm College was originally conceived as a way to help southern Ohio's tobacco farmers make the transition away from that crop as government subsidies were phased out. OSU extension educators soon realized such programming also could benefit rural landowners who own small acreage in the countryside. Since 2005, past regional New and Small Farm Colleges have helped 783 individuals representing 584 farms from 52 Ohio counties improve the economic development of their small family-owned farms. This program can help small farm landowners and farmers diversify their opportunities into successful new enterprises and new markets. And, it can improve agricultural literacy among small farm landowners not actively involved in agricultural production.

Many program participants don't expect to make a living off the land, but do want to recoup something, said organizer Tony Nye of OSU Extension in Clinton County. First time farmers want their interaction with their land to be productive.

"They like living in the country, getting their hands dirty," Nye said. "That has been their motivation for buying land."

The New and Small Farm College will be conducted at three locations this year. The first college will be held in Brown County at the Southern State Community College, Brown County Campus, 351 Brooks-Malott Rd., Mt. Orab, Ohio on Wednesdays, beginning January 20, 2016 through Wednesday, March 16, 2016. Classes run from 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. each week. This class will be limited to the First 50 registrations.

The second college will be held in Athens County at the Athens County Extension Office, 280 W. Union Street, Athens, Ohio on Thursdays, beginning January 21, 2016 through Thursday, March 10, 2016. Classes run from 6:30 –9:00 p.m. each week. This class will be limited to the First 40 registrations.

The third college will be held in Miami County at the First Baptist Church, 53 S. Norwich, Troy, Ohio on Mondays, beginning January 25, 2016 through Monday, March 14, 2016. Classes run from 6:30 -9:00 p.m. each week. This class will be limited to the First 40 registrations.

The cost of the course is $150 per person, $100 for an additional family member. Along with the vast resources and knowledge gained, participants will receive a notebook (per each $150 registration) of all resource materials, a soil test, refreshments, and the bus tour. Registrations are now being accepted. Individuals interested in the program may contact the Brown County Extension office at (937) 378- 6716, the Athens County Extension office at (740) 593-8555, or the Miami County Extension office at (937) 440-3945. Registration brochures for the program can also be found online at the following websites http://brown.osu.edu , http://athens.osu.edu , http://miami.osu.edu , or at http://agnr.osu.edu/node/283 and are also available in area Ohio State University Extension offices.

For further information contact Tony Nye, OSU Small Farm Program Coordinator at (937) 382-0901 or E-mail at nye.1@osu.edu .

GRIEFSHARE

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Are you dealing with the loss of a loved one? You don’t have to do it alone! Walk the journey of grief and be supported on the way. Griefshare is a place where hurting people find healing and hope. It is a network of grief recovery support that will give you direction, purpose and healing.

GriefShare will meet weekly beginning January 12, 2016 at 6:00 pm at the Greenville Library. There are three key parts to the GriefShare experience—video, group discussion, and personal workbook. For more information or questions, contact Sylvia McKibben at 937-548-5207.

Jeff Harper is Lead Pastor at EUM Church. The contemporary worship services are Saturday at 6:30 pm and Sunday at 9:00, 10:30, and 11:59 am at the Worship Center located at 1451 Sater Street and a traditional worship service is Sunday 9:45 am at the Downtown Campus at 111 Devor Street in Greenville. Kidmunity Children’s Ministry is available for kids age birth through grade six at the 6:30 pm, 9:00, 10:30 and 11:59 am services. The Downtown Campus, 111 Devor Street, houses the offices. For more information, go to www.eumchurch.org or call 548-3211.

VERSAILLES HEALTH CARE CENTER DONATES FOOD ITEMS TO COUNCIL OF CHURCHES

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VHCC staff L to R: Therese Pohlman, Amber Whittaker, Rebecca Detling, and Kristy Earick.
Versailles Health Care Center recently collected non-perishable food items from staff, family and friends. The food items were donated to the Council of Churches in Versailles for community distribution. Versailles Health Care Center would like to thank everyone who contributed to the collection!

Edison State nursing students honored with pinning ceremony

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Amanda Cayton of Piqua is pinned during Edison State’s time-honored nursing pinning ceremony.
Edison State Community College honored its most recent nursing graduates on Thursday, December 10, with a pinning ceremony held before a gymnasium filled with family and friends at the Piqua campus.

The pinning ceremony is a time-honored tradition in which the graduate nurse is presented to family and friends as a professional who is about to practice nursing and the graduate is usually “pinned” by the faculty members who have worked with the students throughout their course of study. Each school has a unique pin, which serves as a symbol of the successful completion of a rigorous curriculum, which prepares its graduates to administer to the sick and injured and promote health through the practice of nursing.

Gwen Stevenson, Dean of Nursing and Health Sciences, and Dr. Doreen Larson, President, gave a speech praising the hard work and determination of the students, while recognizing the sacrifices made by the family members and friends who have supported them while completing their degrees.

When reached for comment, nursing class representative Rachel Darling of Piqua expressed her enthusiasm for being pinned and credited the nursing faculty for helping to prepare her for her next chapter in life.

“The nursing instructors at Edison work very hard to help us learn a vast amount of information in only four semesters and they do an excellent job of preparing us for clinical practice.”

“The faculty also works very hard to foster relationships with local health care facilities so that Edison nursing students will have opportunities for varied clinical experiences and become well known in the community to facilities that may have jobs to offer them upon graduation.”

Each of the twenty-four graduates had the opportunity to submit a word of thanks to those who have made the end of this portion of their education possible, which was read as they received their pin from an Edison nursing faculty member. Many used the opportunity to share individual stories of sacrifice and triumphing over adversity, the bonds that were formed between classmates and the deep appreciation held for the Edison nursing faculty.

Graduates of the program will move on to the next phase of their career, which involves taking the registered nurse licensing exam and seeking employment.

Edison State Community College’s nursing program has maintained full accreditation and approval throughout its history. In 2013, Edison’s Associate of Nursing Degree program was granted a full five-year approval by the Ohio Board of Nursing. In 2011, the program earned an eight-year accreditation from the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, the highest level a program can receive.

Applications for Edison State’s Registered Nursing program are currently being accepted for fall 2016 semester. For more information about the program, visit www.edisonohio.edu/programs.

Fall 2015 Nursing Graduates:

Arcanum: Carissa Hudson; Belle Center: Tracy Daniels; Celina: Katie Burden Degraff: Shelby Cook; Greenville: April Sutherland; Huber Heights: Jennifer Reese; Laura: Jessica Hurd; Piqua: Taylor Bachman, Amanda Cayton, Rachel Darling, Amanda Gambill, Anita Weaver; Russia: Ashley Klintworth; Sidney: Jenna Branam, Dana Jenkins, Mindy McCutchins; Saint Paris: Christina McKinney; Tipp City: Stephanie Barth, Shauna McClaskey; Troy: Andrea Goff, Elizabeth Overbay, Rebecca Palsgrove, Nicole Troy; Urbana: Lisa Johnson.

Ladybugs Award The Blue Bow Boutique

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The Ladybug Garden Club selected The Blue Bow Boutique on Mainstreet in Greenville as a Community Commercial display for outstanding achievement in design and maintenance of their store window and community beautification in Christmas decorating.

Shown (l-r) Ladybug Beautification members Lisa Marcum, Cindy McCallister with Blue Bow Boutique employee Ashley and Ladybug Angela Beumer.

Monday, December 28, 2015

Phone Service Restored at Wayne HealthCare

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(Greenville, OH) December 28, 2015
Phone service at Wayne HealthCare was restored around 4:15pm today. Incoming and outgoing calls, including fax request are now working.

For more information about Wayne HealthCare, please visit www.waynehealthcare.org or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn.

Friday, December 25, 2015

Sunset on Christmas Eve

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Nancy Keiser caught a photo of this year's Christmas Eve sunset. This is what 50 degrees for Christmas in Ohio looks like. Anyone have a clear shot of the full moon?

Posted by DarkeJournal.com on Thursday, December 24, 2015

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Merry Christmas from the Darke County Commissioners!

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………in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. And all went to be registered, each to his own town. And Joseph went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed who was with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

And in the same region, there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an Angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. And the Angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find the baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of heavenly host praising God and saying “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men!”………….

We have so much to be thankful for this last year. Darke County is making great strides to make things better for all of our citizens. As long as we all pull together, help and encourage each other, and try to make our little corner of the world better, we will continue with all that is positive here. We are fortunate to have good people in the right places who work for the county to make things happen for the good here. We work with some very special people who actually put the welfare of the county and its citizens first. It does not happen everywhere.

Please join all of us in remembering the real reason for the Christmas season, and to remember to help our fellow man whenever we can.

God bless each and every one of you, and MERRY CHRISTMAS, AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

The Darke County Commissioners,

Mike Rhoades- Chairman
Mike Stegall- Vice Chairman
Diane Delaplane- member

Darke County Road Hogs & Big Brothers Big Sisters provide Toys for Kids in need this Christmas

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Darke County Road Hogs
The Darke County Road Hogs in partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Darke County held its annual Toys for Tikes Christmas toy drive with toys being distributed December 11th at the Community Action Partnership Building. Fifty Five families with 128 children were provided toys this year, this up from the 90 children that were served in 2014.

A lot of local business donated toward this worthy cause this year. The businesses included: BNSF Logistics in Versailles, Famers State Bank all branches in Darke County, Dollar General, and Ansonia Lumber held a toy contest where lots of wonderful handmade wooden toys were donated to Toys for Tikes.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke county are now busy gearing up for The Bowl For Kids’ Sake fundraiser will be held Friday and Sunday, March 4 & 5, 2015, at Bel-Mar Lanes in Sidney and Treaty Lanes in Greenville.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke County is a non-profit United Way member, social service agency. If you would like more information on entering your child in the program or on becoming an active volunteer, please call 492-7611 or 547-9622.

Wal-Mart Foundation Awards Funding to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke Counties

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Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke County is honored to be the recipient of a donation from the WalMart Foundation. This funding will be used to support the Big Brothers Big Sisters “Big Buddies” after school Mentoring program, which currently has around 150 freshman, sophomores, junior, and senior students mentoring elementary children across the two-county area.

The High School Mentoring program known as “Big Buddies” is a nine month commitment where volunteer high school students mentor elementary students after-school hours at their elementary sites. This year, Shelby County sites include, Northwood, Whittier, Emerson and Longfellow. And Darke county sites include; Ansonia, Woodland Heights and Versailles. All sessions last approximately 1.5 hours and mentors work one-on-one with students on activities that center around a positive life skills curriculum. All sessions are supervised and activities facilitated by trained agency personnel.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke County is a nonprofit United Way Partner organization whose mission is to develop and mature quality relationships between children and volunteers. The relationship is meant to guide each child towards becoming a confident, competent, and caring individual. If anyone is interested in becoming a volunteer, you may call the office at (937)547-9622 or go to the BBBS website at www.bigbrobigsis-shelbydarke.org.

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Franklin Monroe Siblings Killed in Crash

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On December 21, 2015 at approximately 7:47 PM the Darke County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call reporting a serious crash at Gettysburg-Pitsburg Road and Neff Road in Franklin Township. The location of the crash was 3.5 miles south of the village of Gettysburg, Ohio. Darke County Deputies, Gettysburg Fire and Rescue and Arcanum Rescue units responded.

The preliminary investigation revealed a 2016 Volvo tractor trailer driven by James Dunkel age 64 of LaGrange, Indiana was turning south onto Gettysburg-Pitsburg Road from Neff Road when a northbound 1997 Honda sedan driven by Hudson Nestor age 17 of Bradford drove under the trailer and continued north off of the right side of the road and striking a tree.

Hudson Nestor and his 13 year old sister, Katlynn Nestor, a passenger in the Honda sedan, were both pronounced dead at the scene. There were no other occupants in the Honda sedan. The Nestor children were students at nearby Franklin-Monroe School. James Dunkel was not injured in the crash and was the single occupant of the tractor trailer.

Darke County Coroner, Dr. Timothy Kathman and his Chief Investigator responded to the scene. The Darke County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Crash Reconstruction team also responded the scene.

The cause of the fatal crash remains under investigation by both agencies. At the conclusion of the investigation the case will be forwarded to the Darke County Prosecutor’s Office for review. No charges or citations have been issued at this time.

Monday, December 21, 2015

Ladybug's Honor Ditmer Family for Christmas Display

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The Ladybug Garden Club made their final selection for holiday lighting in honoring the Jason and Michelle Ditmer family on Auburn Road, Greenville. Their unique lighting throughout the inside and outside of their home is a family fun time the help of sons Zach and Tyler. The driveway has snowmen guiding the way with yard lights, porch decorations, sleigh's, trees, and sleds with skates and a jolly Santa Claus. Presenting the award for outstanding Christmas lighting is (l-r) Ladybug member Angela Beumer, Zach Ditmer, Ladybug Lisa Marcum, Michelle and Jason Ditmer and Ladybug, Cindy McCallister.

SECRET SANTA DROPS OF FIVE CHIRSTMAS CARDS, EACH CONTAINING A $20.00 BILL, FOR MIAMI COUNTY DEPUTIES TO DISTRIBUTE TO THOSE THEY FIND IN NEED OVER THE HOLIDAYS

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An unknown male dropped off five Christmas cards yesterday at the Miami County Sheriff's Office. Each card contained a $20.00 bill. The good Samaritan requested that the cards and money be distributed by deputies to those they find in need over the holidays. All of the cards and money will be given out by deputies to those they find in need over the Christmas season.

To the "Secret Santa" THANK YOU!!! We will make sure to get the packages to those in need!

New Madison Public Library Seeks Trustee for Unfinished Term

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New Madison Public Library is seeking letters of interest from residents in the Tri-Village School District for an open seat on the Board of Trustees. This is for an unexpired term from January 1, 2016 – December 31, 2020. Criteria for this position include a commitment to the goals of NMPL and recognition of the library’s importance as a community center. Duties of a NMPL Trustee include attendance at monthly meetings, involvement in community events, and participation on committees.

Interested parties should submit a letter of interest with an explanation of qualifications to the Library Director, Brenda Miller at 142 S. Main St. PO Box 32 New Madison, OH 45346. Letters of interest must be received before Wednesday, Jan. 6, 2016. Any questions may also be directed to Miller at 996-1741.

Versailles Museum Announcement

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The Versailles Museum will close after Sunday December 27th hours. That leaves so little time left to enjoy this year’s Christmas Displays. The museum will close for the month of January for extended projects and cleaning. We will reopen February 7th for our 2016 season.

In preparation we are looking for the following items for display. We are looking for items for the Bed Chamber. From wash basin sets to quilts, linens, bedding, and comforters, everything that would have been in the bedroom. Also furniture is needed. Other displays needing help is early photography. This would include cameras, equipment and early photos. Also we are looking for telephones to help show the progress of these modern wonders. If you are able to make loans, please call the museum at 937-526-4222 and leave a message, we will get back with you to make arrangements. Thank-you for your help and Happy New Year from your friends at the Versailles Area Museum!

SSSSSSSHHHHHHHH! Quite, “Babe sent me”!

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If you don’t know the password how can you get into our Speak Easy? The Versailles Area Museum invites you to a fun and historic night as we relive a 1928 Road House somewhere in northeastern Darke County.

Prohibition was alive and well, yet if you knew the “right people” you could still partake! From the jazz & country music of the period, to a delicious “blue plate” special like Mom use to make, our evening is sure to entertain and help bring back the excitement, fun and even danger of the Roaring Twenties!

On Saturday February 6th in the Father Jackle Room of the Versailles Knights of Columbus Hall we will recreate this bygone era. You are encouraged to dress in the style and join us for a fun night. Appetizers will be served at 6:15 and dinner at 7:00 p.m.

Tickets are $50.00 each for non-members and $45.00 for members. A cash bar will be available to sample the adult beverages of the period!

Get your friends together and join us for a roaring good time! Tickets are on sale now by contacting the museum at 526-4222. Seating is limited so don’t wait!

Christmas Appeal for the Historic St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church

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A site on the Ohio Historical Societies List of Historic Places, St. Peter’s is a unique Darke County treasure. Where else can a church survive 108 years after its closing? This log church covered by clapboard siding is truly unique to have survived and the below letter from her trustees hopes to secure this landmark for the next 100 years.

“As we gather to celebrate the birth of the Christ child many of us allow thoughts of our ancestors to creep into our conscience like the familiar scent of fresh pine or an old ornament that has decorated our trees for more years than we can remember.

You can almost hear the crunch of the snow under the runner of the sleigh as it makes its way to St. Peter’s for the Christmas Eve service.

The familiar sounds of the church bell cuts through the cold, crisp air to all the farms around the church beckoning us to worship.

The black wood stove warms the church as the crackling sound fills the meeting room. The old copper coffee pot has been heating waiting for the circuit Pastor to arrive.

The fresh cut tree sits by the organ and the first strands of “Silent Night” drift through the room.

What wouldn’t we give to be a part of that setting! But what if the next generation of Darke County families doesn’t have the same opportunities as we have to come home to historic St. Peter?

To insure that never happens we need your help to raise funds to continue to maintain the church and the cemetery as those whom have come before us have done.

Please consider a “Christmas gift” this year to support our historic legacy known as St. Peter’s Evangelical Lutheran Church. Your gifts may be sent in care of Richard Shumaker: 5958 Children’s Home Bradford Road, Greenville, Ohio 45331.

We the Trustees of St. Peter’s thank you for your generosity and look forward to welcoming you home again on September 18, 2016 for our annual homecoming.

May this season of His birth renews you, and brings you God’s peace. Merry Christmas!

Holiday County Office Closings

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**The County Offices will be closing at 12:00 noon on Thursday, December 24th, and all day on Friday, December 25th, 2015, for the Christmas Holiday. Also, the Offices will be closing at 12:00 noon on Thursday, December 31st, and all day on Friday, January 1st , 2016, for the “New Year” Holiday.

BUNDLE UP AT COVINGTON EAGLES BLOOD DRIVE

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FLEECE TRAVEL BLANKET IS A WARM ‘THANK YOU’ TO HOLIDAY DONORS

DAYTON, Ohio – The Covington Eagles and Community Blood Center will offer warm thanks to donors who support their New Year’s week blood drive Monday, Dec. 28 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the lodge multi-purpose room, 715 East Broadway. Everyone who registers to donate will receive a Holiday Fleece Travel Blanket. Donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment online at www.DonorTime.com or call 1-800-388-GIVE.

The Holiday Fleece Travel Blanket is perfect for a dash through the snow in a one horse open sleigh… or to keep in the car during your holiday travels! The blanket is a bright Rudolph red with a reindeer and snowflake design and the edges stitched in white thread. The size is an ample four feet by four feet, nine inches and rolls neatly into a black travel pouch with the CBC blood drop logo.

The fleece blanket is free to anyone who registers to donate Monday, Dec. 21 through Saturday, Jan. 9 at any CBC Donor Center and most CBC mobile blood drives.

The busy holiday season is often a challenging time for maintaining the area blood supply. Winter weather can disrupt travel and seasonal illnesses can also interfere with donating. If you must miss an appointment to donate please reschedule as soon as you are able. We especially encourage the continued support of type O whole blood donors and type A/B platelet and plasma donors.

Learn more at www.GivingBlood.org

Friday, December 18, 2015

One Airlifted Following Head On Collision Early Thursday Morning

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On December 17, 2015 at approximately 6:34 AM Darke County Deputies, along with Union City Ohio Fire, Union City Ohio Rescue and CareFlight were dispatched to the 11,200 block of Ohio-Indiana Stateline Road in reference to a head-on injury accident.

Preliminary investigation revealed a green 2002 Chevy Venture driven by Brittany L. Hiatt, 25, Union City, Ohio was southbound on Ohio-Indiana Stateline Road when she traveled left of the centerline striking a blue 2003 Chrysler Town and Country driven by Pedro Reyna, 40, Union City, Indiana. Both vehicle’s collided head-on causing Reyna’s vehicle to travel off the left side of the roadway and roll over on it’s top. Hiatt’s vehicle remained disabled in the middle of the roadway.

Hiatt was transported to Wayne HealthCare where she was treated and released. Reyna was treated and released from the scene. Reyna’s passenger, Carlos Gutierrez was transported to Miami Valley Hospital by CareFlight where his condition is unknown.

Hiatt was issued traffic citation for Marked Lanes.

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

Christmas Eve Service at St. John Lutheran Church

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GREENVILLE AREA DOG CLUB OFFERS DOG TRAINING CLASSES

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GREENVILLE – The Greenville Area Dog Club winter session of obedience, and conformation classes begins January 5th.2016. Through the years more classes have been added to meet the growing interest in dog training. Many people like the variety of classes available.

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 that begin Tuesday, January 5th. will include, Puppy (12 weeks to five months), Beginner Obedience, and Advanced Obedience for those who have completed the beginner class and which to continue on with their training. An introduction to Rally Obedience and Beginner Novice will be part of the Advanced class time.

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

She also added that an intro to new classes will be offered to those who have completed beginner or have some past training in classes and want to continue with training. The Novice Rally Class is for students who want to try something new in obedience and challenge themselves and their dog. Also Beginner Novice obedience will be covered. The requirement for these classes is that the dog and handler be able to execute all the basic obedience commands without much difficulty. MUST PREREGISTER WITH BARB 548-0338 or BECKY 337-0292 FOR THE ADVANCED CLASS.


The goal of the class is to introduce students to a new form of Obedience which involves walking a course with your dog and performing the exercises as illustrated on numbered signs along the path of the course. This class also preps the team of dog and handler to enter and work towards a novice title in Rally or Beginner Novice if so interested.

The classes are designed to be building blocks in obedience. We start with puppy and continue to build upon that training thru each of the later classes. However, if you missed the puppy class when your dog was a baby, you can still get great results with the dog starting with our Beginner classes.

Registration for obedience classes is from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. Tuesday, January 5th.with orientation and classes to follow registration.

MVCTC Adult Education Teams up with OhioMeansJobs │Montgomery County to offer Five-Week Manufacturing Training Program and Certification

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Training eligible job seekers with no formal training or experience in manufacturing will earn a Certified Production Technician (CPT) certification.

Englewood, Ohio – New Jobs in Manufacturing!

Montgomery County Workforce Development has teamed up with MVCTC Adult Education to offer a five-week training program to prepare qualified individuals for jobs with local companies.

Training eligible job seekers with no formal training or experience in manufacturing will earn a Certified Production Technician (CPT) certification. The program includes four modules: Safety; Quality and Measurement; Manufacturing Processes and Production: and Maintenance Awareness – enhancing your overall qualifications for existing jobs!

This five-week training program includes one week of Job Readiness training at OhioMeansJobs │Montgomery County followed by four-weeks of certificate training at MVCTC.

With these certifications you are guaranteed interview with companies that have immediate openings for jobs here in the Dayton area.

If interested in pursuing a career in manufacturing, contact OhioMeansJobs │Montgomery County at 937-225-5052 or sign-up online at http://www.thejobcenter.org.

  • What: 5-Week Training Course
  • When: Classes Starting February 16, 2016
  • Where: Week 1 – OhioMeansJobs │Montgomery County located in The Job Center
  • Week 2-5 – MVCTC Adult Education located at 6800 Hoke Road, Englewood

Fort Greene Ville DAR Donates to FISH Mitten Tree

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Chapter members donated gloves and mittens to the local Fish mitten tree at Montage Cafe. These donations will be distributed to children enrolled in the Darke County Head Start programs.

Pictured: Shirley Hughes, Helen Wright, Debbie Nisonger, Taylor Nehring, Linda Riley, Mary Jane Dietrich and Brenda Arnett. Kneeling: Rachael and Lauren Wright.


Darke County Park Board to Meet December 30th

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The Darke County Park District Board of Commissioners will hold a Special Board Meeting on Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 8:00 a.m. at the Shawnee Prairie Nature Education Center, 4267 St. Rt. 502 W., Greenville, OH. This meeting is to discuss and approve the 2016 Appropriations Budget and take care of any other year end obligations.

Advanced Parliamentary Procedure Team goes to Districts

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On December 2nd, the Mississinawa Valley-MVCTC FFA advanced parliamentary procedure team travelled to Ansonia to compete at the county level. After running a 12 minute meeting and taking a 35 question test over the components of a meeting, the team consisting of Leslie Dirksen, Hope Jankowski, Joe Teeter, Megan Wilson, Shelby Manning, Shaiann Livingston, and Madison Stachler placed 2nd place. Shelby Manning had the top scores for both the test and debate.

Because of the second place finish, the team had the opportunity to go to Miami Valley CTC to compete in the district competition. Going up against 8 other teams in the district, we finished 5th place. Shaiann Livingston had the top score for the test and Shelby Manning had the high score for debate. Congrats to the team for their hard work and effort at achieving this.

Thursday, December 17, 2015

RECYCLE YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE

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O’ Christmas Tree, O’ Christmas Tree. What do I do with my cut Christmas Tree?

Many county residents will be singing this Christmas Carol after the holidays. Join the Darke County Solid Waste District and the Darke County Park District in giving our community a gift by recycling your cut Christmas tree.

No matter where you live in Darke County, it is easy to recycle your tree. Just take your cut Christmas trees to the Darke County Park District’s Shawnee Prairie Preserve anytime between December 26, 2015 and January 17, 2016 The Shawnee Prairie Preserve is located at 4267 St. Rt. 502 in Greenville.

Recycling your tree helps ensure the sustainability of our county by saving valuable landfill space. All of the Christmas trees brought to the Park District will be chipped and shredded. When chipped into mulch, cut trees become valuable organic material used in trail maintenance and landscaping projects that help conserve soil moisture and keep plants healthy.

Before dropping off your tree, remove all non-organic objects such as lights, wire, tinsel, ornaments and nails. Damaged and non-working Christmas Lights, extension cords, and power strips can be recycled at the Solid Waste District. Foreign objects can contaminate the mulch and ruin the chipper. Unfortunately, flocked trees (with fake snow) cannot be recycled.

If you chose an artificial tree this year, you can help reduce the amount of waste generated in Darke County by taking a few of the following simple steps:

  • Flatten, save, & reuse gift boxes, wrapping paper, bows and gift bags;
  • Buy cards & wrapping paper products made with recycled paper;
  • After receiving new gifts, donate old items to a local charity or thrift store;
  • Save & reuse holiday decorations for future years;
  • Cut up brown paper grocery bags to wrap parcels for mailing;
  • Save bubble wrap & Styrofoam peanuts, or offer them to local private mailing stores;

The program, which is “free” to all Darke County businesses, industries, schools, nonprofit organizations and residents, will involve the participation and support of many Darke County agencies to make it work. These Darke County agencies are the Board of County Commissioners, Darke County Engineer, Darke County Highway Garage and the Darke County Parks. Best of all, neither your tax dollars nor the county’s general fund are being used to fund this program!! The Solid Waste District uses fees collected from area disposal companies to fund this program.

The Director of Darke County Parks, Roger M. Van Frank stated, “We are glad and encouraged that the collection is taking place at the Park District’s facility located on St. Rt. 502 in Greenville. The Park District has a great partnership with the Solid Waste District and this is just one more example of that partnership.” James Schaar, Solid Waste Policy Committee Member, and Krista Fourman, Director of the Darke County Solid Waste Management District are responsible for planning, promoting, and coordinating the program. For more information, call 937-547-0827 or the Park District at 937-548-0165.

November and December Members of the Month Named

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The Mississinawa Valley FFA Chapter recently named their members of the month for November and December.

For the month of November, Freshman Bailey Johnson was recognized. Bailey participated in the food science CDE and was one of the highest scorers on the team. She also sold over $450 worth of fruit in our annual fruit sale.

For the month of December, eighth grader Cody Dirksen was selected. Cody participated in the Parliamentary Procedure CDE as the chairman and also helped raise over $3,000 worth of fruit sales.

Congratulations to both members who were honored.

Project FeederWatch

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One of the many bird species we hope to count during FeederWatch,
a Carolina Wren feasts on peanuts.
Calling all birders! Join Darke County Park District, and participate in Project FeederWatch, every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:30-11:30am. This is a unique ‘Citizen Science’ program organized by Cornell University which studies winter bird populations. Observations from here in Darke County may be used in scientific journals and shared with ornithologists and bird lovers nationwide.

No matter your birding level, beginner or expert, we need YOUR help! Bird watchers will gather inside the Nature Center at Shawnee Prairie Preserve (4267 St. Rt. 502 West) and count the birds that visit the bird-feeding station. Drop in anytime on Tuesday or Wednesday from 9:30am-11:30am to help with the project. There will be warm drinks and goodies available for those enjoying nature from the comfort of an armchair on a cold winter’s day.

For more information on Project FeederWatch or if you have any questions about any of the many other programs offered by the Darke County Park District, call the Nature Center at (937) 548-0165.

GREENVILLE BPW PUTS ON ‘BREAKFAST WITH SANTA’

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Attending the Breakfast with Santa:
Cason & Callie Smith with Santa Claus.
Greenville, OH The Greenville Business & Professional Women’s Club (BPW) held their annual Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, December 12th. The event is a fundraiser held to raise money to grant college scholarships to the young women of Darke County. A breakfast of eggs, sausage, donut holes, orange juice and milk were served to all those attending. Each child received a gift.

The event was a success due to member support and donations made by businesses in the community. Businesses donating to the Breakfast with Santa were: Greenville VFW, Weaver Brothers, Eikenberry’s IGA, and Greenville Federal.

Once again the BPW Club had additional help from the students of the Supply Chain Management Class from Greenville High School. The group’s instructor/advisor is Dara Buchy. The students helped set up the hall, cook the breakfast of eggs and sausage and served those attending. The Club wishes to thank all of the students from Supply Chain Management for their great contribution in this event.

The Club meets the second Thursday of every month for a dinner meeting. Those interested in learning more about the club can contact Membership Chair Brenda Miller at 937/996-1741 or Brenda@newmadisonpubliclibrary.org.

Greenville BPW Hosts Christmas meeting

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Greenville, OH. The Greenville Business & Professional Women’s (BPW) Club hosted their Christmas meeting December 10th at the Brethren Retirement Community.

Deb Smith, BPW President chaired the committee for the meeting. Annie Sonner from the Darke County Women’s Shelter answered questions from members about the shelter. Club members donated items for the shelter. Items brought and needed by the shelter are Tide w/ Bleach, Downy, diapers of all sizes, and garbage bags. In addition, items were donated for a special Darke County family in need.

The ‘Super Raffle’ drawing was held. Winner of the 11 quart food processor donated by KitchenAid was Vicki Cost. Jan Smith’s name was drawn for both the diamond necklace donated by Wieland’s Jewelers and tickets to a Versailles Winery ‘Thrill of the Grill for 2’. Elizabeth Shields won the “mani, pedi, facial” package from Mae’s Beauty Salon. A big thanks to all the sponsors who donated prizes. Proceeds are used for scholarships for the young women of Darke County.

Members then wrapped presents for the Breakfast with Santa event which was held on Saturday, December 12th.

The Greenville BPW Club’s mission is to achieve equity for all women in the workplace through advocacy, education, and information. Dinner meetings are held the second Thursday of every month. The next meeting will be January 14th. Those interested in learning more about the club can contact Membership Chair Brenda Miller at 937/996-1741 or Brenda@newmadisonpubliclibrary.org .

Wayne HealthCare Foundation Celebrates Retirees and Board Members

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Wayne HealthCare Foundation welcomed Gloria Keller-Brinley from KitchenAid Experience to their 2nd Annual Retiree and Board Member Celebration. This celebration is a special time to update retired hospital employees as well as current and past board members of the Wayne HealthCare board and Wayne HealthCare Foundation board about the hospital and the foundation for the year. Gloria Keller-Brinley was the highlighted entertainment for the luncheon, giving a fantastic cooking demonstration about cauliflower pizza and its health benefits as an alternative to traditional pizza. The Wayne HealthCare Foundation thanks Gloria as well as KitchenAid Experience and Whirlpool for their partnership with this celebration.

Wayne Deschambeau, CEO at Wayne HealthCare and Lauren Henry, Director for the Wayne HealthCare Foundation spoke to the group about the future of the hospital, the master facility plan, and the exciting new technologies being utilized at the hospital including telemedicine. The community health outreach of the Foundation were noted including AED program for non-profits, scholarship program, Healthy Moments, We Care, and Diabetes/Nutrition programs. Legacy giving was also discussed as well as community support for the Foundation.

The luncheon, hosted at the hospital, was a wonderful time of fellowship, socializing and sharing great memories as well as wonderful food prepared by the nutrition services staff at Wayne HealthCare. Gloria’s cooking demonstration gave great ideas for meal preparation and all were able to taste the cauliflower pizza and take home the recipe. Wayne HealthCare retiree, Ruth Kepler, was the winner of the door prize donated by KitchenAid Experience.

On behalf of the Wayne HealthCare Foundation Board of Directors, we would like to thank all retirees, board members and employees that helped make this day a true celebration. The hard work, excellent care and dedication contributed by each of the attendees will forever be embedded in the hearts of our patients, employees and community. To donate or learn more about the Wayne HealthCare Foundation, please call Foundation Director, Lauren Henry at 547-7408 or visit www.waynehealthcare.org.

Upcoming Events at The Arcanum Public Library

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The holiday rush is here! There are parties to go to, presents to wrap, cookies to bake, and so much more. The Arcanum Public Library can be part of your plans. There is still much you can do here for the remainder of December. Come find a Christmas book to read to your child. Browse our cookbooks for something different to take to family gatherings. We have books on decorating for the holidays. We have plenty of Christmas movies available to check out.

We also have several events planned through the end of the year. On Saturday, December 19th, we will be showing the movie “Pixels” at 11:00. Popcorn will be served!

Our annual Christmas craft night and visit with Santa will be on Monday, December 21 from 6:00 to 7:30. Make some crafts to take home, and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The last day for Storytime and AfterWords sessions will be Tuesday, December 14th. They will both resume again the first week of January.

As a reminder, the library will be closed December 24-27 and December 31- January 3.

If you have any questions, feel free to call at 937-692-8484, or you can visit our website at www.arcanumpubliclibrary.org. We also have a Facebook page – look us up!

Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Arcanum Youth Football & Cheer Raffle

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Ladybug Garden Club Honors Roy and Sharon Harrison's Christmas House

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The Ladybug Garden Club honored Roy and Sharon Harrison's Christmas House on Wayne Avenue in Greenville for their efforts to make the season bright for the community.

The Harrison's welcome visitors with the sights of many lights and decorating skills very tastefully done. Their home has different theme's for each room with many trees in each room. The living room welcome's all with a large decorated tree of ornaments from specials places and events in their lives. The Gingerbread kitchen was inviting with the aroma of fresh baked cupcakes. Other areas carried a Ronald Donald theme with happy meal items and lifesaver garland on the tree. Each area of the home was decorated with Angel's and Santa's with many more items added to the beauty of the season. The outside enables visitors to wonder from the front of the property to the backyard with many lights and sights of the season. The Harrison's have collected Christmas items for many years, locally and from the places they have traveled.

The Ladybug Garden Club beautification members (l-r) Cindy McCallister and Angela Beumer are shown presenting the Harrison's with the Ladybug Garden Club Community Christmas Beautification Award for their time and talents in bringing joy for the season.

“Christmas at the Great Darke County Fair” at The Gordon United Methodist Church

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The Gordon United Methodist Church will be presenting “Christmas at the Great Darke County Fair”, a Christmas Program with actors from all age groups of the church plus a church choir. Come join us on Wednesday, December 16, 2015, at 7:00pm. Refreshments will follow with a visit from Santa Clause. The church is located at 311 East St in the little village of Gordon, OH. For additional information, contact the church at 937-884-5129.

Versailles Bowling - Week 4

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Tiger Bowlers Add a Victory

The High School boy’s bowling team traveled to New Bremen, OH to bowl against the Marion Local Flyers in conference competition on December 12th. They came back to Versailles with an impressive win scoring 2,516 to Marion’s 2,014. Leading the way for the Tigers were Alex Groff (245, 181), Kyle Cotner (198), Jacob Wening (180), and Brandon Bradley (181). The team also bowled well during the baker games but there was room for improvement. “This is an area where we really need to work hard to better our chances for tournament play. They do well but I know they can do better,” said Coach Phlipot.

The boys have a home match on Saturday, December 19th at 1:00 p.m. where they will compete against the Ft. Loramie Redskins. Please come out to support our Tiger Bowlers.

Lady Tigers Keep Rolling in the WOHSBC

The Lady Tigers traveled to New Bremen, OH and bowled the Marion Flyers at Speedway Lanes on December 12th. They came home with another win added to their record defeating the Flyers 2380 to 1753. Individual games were led with high scores from Hannah Niekamp (224, 165), Olivia Bruening (190, 160), and Makenzie Berning (182). “The girls bowled together well as a team and showed that with their improved team baker scores,” said Coach Phlipot. “Some of our less experienced bowlers were able to get more lane time in this match and they did well.”

The next match is in Versailles, OH at McBo’s Lanes on December 19th at 9:45 a.m. They are competing against Mississinawa Valley. This is a great opportunity for you to come out and support the high school teams.

Lady Tiger JV Bowlers improve to 3-1

The reserve Lady Bowlers took the lanes Saturday December 12th at Speedway Lanes in New Bremen, OH. The Lady Bowlers defeated the Russia Raiders 1776-1577. Leading the way for the Tigers were Haddie Treon (146) and Payton Bulscher (144).

The JV Girls will be bowling at McBo’s Lanes on Saturday December 19th at 1:00 vs Minster Wildcats.

Reid Health welcomes Dr. Steven Johnson to Connersville and Richmond

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Reid Health welcomes Steven Johnson, D.O., a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist with more than 12 years of experience, to Reid OB/GYN. Dr. Johnson will see patients at Reid Health practices in Richmond and in Connersville, where he and his family have lived for many years.

Dr. Johnson provides medical and surgical care to women, with special expertise in pregnancy care, childbirth and disorders of the reproductive system. He will perform surgeries and deliver babies at Reid Health in Richmond.

“As an ob-gyn, I have the opportunity to care for patients through all phases of life,” said Dr. Johnson. “I enjoy helping women experience good health when they are young and just starting to have children, when they are older and expanding their families, and as they navigate menopause and the years afterward.”
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Dr. Johnson earned his medical degree from the University of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Science in Des Moines, Iowa (now called Des Moines University). He completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Indiana University Medical Center in Indianapolis.

Joseph Clemente, M.D., said he and other partners are glad to have Dr. Johnson at Reid OB/GYN. “We are excited to have such an experienced physician already known in the region to join our team.”

Dr. Johnson’s office in Connersville is at Whitewater Valley Primary Care, 1475 East State Road 44, and in Richmond is at Reid OB/GYN, 1050 Reid Parkway. He will begin seeing patients in late January. “Reid Health continues to expand the services it provides to people in Connersville, and I’m excited to be part of that,” Dr. Johnson said. “Patients can really benefit from the many resources Reid offers, from preventive health programs to subspecialty care.” For more information about Dr. Johnson or to make an appointment at either location, please call (765) 962-9541.

Related links:
http://reidphysicianassociates.org/locations/reid-obgyn/

DCP 2016 Calendars are in!

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The 2016 DCP calendars make great Christmas gifts!
The Darke County Parks District has hand selected some of the best park photos submitted by local amateur photographers for their photo contest, and their new 2016 Darke County Parks calendars are in! This year’s featured photographers include Kathryn Quinn, Don Koogler, Sandy Hoying, Brian Morton, Molly Hunt, Nick Philiposian, Bill Wantz, Austin Zechar, and Liz McMahon. The calendars feature views of many of the county parks throughout the seasons and list the most exciting events throughout the year, so you won’t miss out on all the fun. The calendars are available for $10 each in the Nature Center Gift Shop which is open Monday through Saturday from 9am to 5pm. All the proceeds from the gift shop go to the Friends of the Darke County Parks which help support the Parks’ programs and activities. Come pick up a copy (or two) of the 2016 calendar for yourself or perhaps as a gift for your favorite nature lover.

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

Three Arrested on Traffic Stop Leads to Search Warrant Where Four Active Methamphetamine Cooks Were Discovered

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On December 14, 2015 at approximately 8:24 P.M., Darke County deputies and K9 Unit along with Greenville Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a maroon Chevrolet minivan in the 300 Block of Wagner Avenue in Greenville, Ohio. As the van stopped, a male passenger immediately fled the vehicle and a short foot pursuit ensued. Darke County deputies quickly apprehended the male identified to be Paul E. Brown, Jr. (41) Union City, Ohio. Mr. Brown was arrested on an outstanding warrant for Failure to Appear on a previous charge of Aggravated Possession of Methamphetamines. A female passenger, Angel L. Bowlin (26) Greenville, Ohio was arrested on an outstanding warrant for Illegal Use of Food Stamps. The driver of the van, Anthony B. Marcum (24) Greenville, Ohio was found to be in possession of items used in the manufacturing of methamphetamines and was arrested on charges of Illegal Assembly / Possession of Chemicals to Manufacture Drugs. Mr. Brown, Ms. Bowlin and Mr. Marcum were transported to the Darke County Jail where they are currently housed awaiting formal charges.

Based upon the drug related items seized during the traffic stop and information received prior to the stop, Darke County Narcotics Unit along with deputies and K9 Unit executed a search warrant at Ms. Bowlin’s residence located at 420 Front Street in Greenville, Ohio. During the search, four active methamphetamine cooks were discovered inside the residence. Greenville City Fire Department and Greenville Township Rescue Squad responded to the scene as a safety precaution as the Darke County Clandestine Unit safely dismantled the methamphetamine cooks.

Sheriff Toby L. Spencer takes a strong stand against the use of illegal drugs and drug trafficking in our community. Citizens are encouraged to contact the Darke County Sheriff’s Office at (937) 548-2020 with information regarding any criminal activity. Citizens may also contact Darke County Crime Stoppers at (937) 547-1661 or www.darkecountycrimestoppers.com. Information can be left anonymously.

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

New Year’s Eve Fundraiser at the Cardinal Center - FREE Admission

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Due to disappointing advance tickets sales to their New Year’s Eve Fundraiser at the Cardinal Center (formerly Gettysburg School), the Friends of the Cardinal Center have decided to cancel their sponsorship of the event rather than risk taking a loss. As this cancellation would cause a loss of income to the musical acts already contracted for the event, a Gettysburg resident approached the Village of Gettysburg at the December 10 Council meeting with a proposal to keep the event in place with a different format.

The Council was asked to sponsor the New Year’s Eve event so that insurance would be in place and the Cardinal Center could be used. The resident guaranteed expenses so that no Village money would be at risk and any profits from the evening would be used to help fund the 2016 Gettysburg Homecoming Festival fireworks being held in June. The Gettysburg council accepted the proposal and agreed to sponsor the New Year’s Eve Event.

The New Year’s Eve event will now be open to the public. Admission is free with an optional $10 suggested donation per person to help cover expenses. The doors will open for a social hour starting at 7:30 featuring music by guitarist Mike Sedmak and the Bob Gray Orchestra will start at 9:00 and play until 12:15 as previously planned. There will be no dinner or raffle. Snacks and drinks will be available for a donation. Attendees may bring their own snacks and beverages, but NO ALCOHOL or GLASS BOTTLES will be permitted. Parking is available in the Cardinal Center lot as well as along Auld St on the North side of the building.

Contact Brett Clark (937)447-2171 at the Gettysburg Village Office from 8-12 Mon-Fri for more information.

Concerns over Chagas disease and kissing bugs in Ohio are unwarranted

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Recent media reports have increased concern and awareness of the general public in Ohio about the risk of contracting Chagas disease, which is an insect-borne disease transmitted by blood-feeding reduviid bugs (Order Hemiptera, Family Reduviidae, Subfamily Triatominae), also known as kissing bugs. Chagas disease is a chronic illness caused by a protozoan parasite (Trypanosoma cruzi) that is similar to the one that causes African sleeping sickness. In brief, when an infected kissing bug feeds on a human host, the parasite can be transmitted to humans. Chagas disease is an important illness throughout Central and South America. However, the risk of contracting this disease in Ohio is extremely low.

Triatomine-borne Chagas in the U.S. is a viable-concern along the Texas-Mexico border and Southwestern U.S. where the vectors and pathogen are abundant, and the disease has been emerging in canines. Insects capable of vectoring Chagas exist in the U.S. and at least one potential vector occurs in Ohio (Triatoma sanguisuga). However, the likelihood of acquiring Chagas in Ohio from a bug is very low for a variety of reasons. The most likely route of acquiring Chagas within the U.S. is from receiving a blood transfusion from an infected blood donor.

Please note that there are several insects in Ohio that may be confused for a kissing bug, such as assassin bugs, wheel bugs (a large assassin bug), and leaffooted bugs. Assassin bugs can bite if picked up, but since they generally feed on other insects, they are not vectors of any known human disease. Leaffooted bugs that feed on seeds of pine trees commonly invade homes in Ohio and have recently been confused with kissing bugs, but are completely harmless to humans. The CDC provides more information on how to identify the only kissing bug that is found in Ohio (http://www.cdc.gov/parasites/chagas/gen_info/vectors/t_sanguisuga.html).

For more detailed information, visit the Darke County OSU Extension web site at www.darke.osu.edu, the OSU Extension Darke County Facebook page or contact Sam Custer, at 937.548.5215.

VERSAILLES HEALTH CARE CENTER ANNOUNCES FIVE STAR RATING

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Versailles Health Care Center, a skilled nursing and rehabilitation center, recently received a Five Star quality care rating from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

The Five Star rating is a nationwide initiative to develop and measure quality care in skilled nursing facilities. A facility’s overall Five Star rating incorporates ratings in three categories: survey results, quality measures, and staffing levels. The Five Star rating is the highest overall rank.

Versailles Health Care Center has been providing quality care to Versailles and surrounding communities for over 30 years! VHCC patients, residents, and their families described the quality of care and quality of life delivered by staff as “excellent”. Versailles Health Care Center sent home 185 patients who utilized its short-term rehab services in 2014 and 180 so far in 2015!

Kristy Earick, VHCC CEO and Administrator, stated, “Versailles Health Care Center is proud of our loyal employees and the compassionate work they do with our patients, residents and their families as well as our community. Versailles Health Care Center will continue to deliver the highest quality care to our patients and residents. We are family serving families.” VHCC offers short-term rehab services, outpatient therapy, and long-term care.

If you are interested in learning more about Versailles Health Care Center, please call 937-526-5570 or visit on the web at www.versailleshealthcare.com.

35th Annual MVCTC FFA Charity Auction Raises over $6,000 for Ronald McDonald House Charities

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MVCTC FFA Officers working at the 35th Annual FFA Charity Auction to raise money for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Dayton. In the past 35 years, the MVCTC FFA Chapter has raised over $140,000 for the local Ronald McDonald House. Pictured left to right – Olivia Mt. Castle (Veterinary Science senior from Tri-Village), Nick Wheeler (Natural Resource Management senior from Milton-Union), and Abigail Nealeigh (Natural Resource Management senior from Arcanum).
Englewood, Ohio – This year marked the 35th Annual Miami Valley Career Technology Center (MVCTC) FFA Charity Auction for the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Dayton. The auction, planned by the MVCTC FFA chapter, is made possible by the dedication and hard work of the FFA members, the MVCTC Employees Association, MVCTC retirees, and the wonderful alumni that return each year to support this great cause.

Retired MVCTC Ag Educator, Waid Lyons, started the event in 1980. The original auction was a hat auction, making $250. This year the students were able to raise over $6,000, bringing the grand total of money raised over the last 35 years to over $140,000.

The proceeds from the event go directly to the local Ronald McDonald
House on Valley Street in Dayton, Ohio so that families of hospitalized children have a place to rest, sustain their strength and be better able to support the healing of their child. RMHC is a modern, 14-room house offering all of the comforts of home to our guest families. They are open 7-days-a-week, 24-hours-a-day, and 365 days a year.

The MVCTC charity event would not be possible without the support of several staff and alumni of the school. MVCTC Ag Livestock and Production instructor, Bill Hershberger, organizes the event with the assistance of the FFA members and MVCTC staff members, Christy Blauvelt, Tami Bruner, Christa Nealeigh, Teannae Miller, Mike Mullen, Dave Peltz, Larry Seibel, and Eva Wiley. MVCTC retirees, Waid and Pat Lyons are back to help each year with the event they so lovingly started 35 years ago. MVCTC Ag Technology alumni Rick Bair (1985 graduate), and B.J. Joseph (1993 graduate) volunteer their auctioneer talents every year for the event.

For more information about MVCTC and the Agriculture Education programs offered for high school students, please visit www.mvctc.com

FFA Member Earns Title

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Joe Teeter, a member of the Mississinawa Valley-MVCTC FFA Chapter, was recently recognized at the state level in the Job Interview CDE.

Joe earned the top spot in his division at the district level, and then went on to compete in Columbus for a state title. After winning his division at state, he went through another interview process to possibly be named the overall winner. Joe was rewarded 2nd place overall. When asked his opinion on the CDE, Joe stated,” It definitely was worth it. The skills I learned will be ones that I’ll use for the rest of my life when interviewing for any type of position. I’m very lucky to have had the chance to do this.”

Congratulations to Joe Teeter for working hard and earning those titles.

BUNDLE UP AT BRADFORD HIGH SCHOOL BLOOD DRIVE

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FLEECE TRAVEL BLANKET IS A WARM ‘THANK YOU’ TO HOLIDAY DONORS

DAYTON, Ohio – The Bradford community and Community Blood Center will offer warm thanks to donors who support their Christmas week blood drive Tuesday, Dec. 22 from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Bradford High School auditorium, 750 Railroad Ave. Everyone who registers to donate will receive a Holiday Fleece Travel Blanket. Donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment online at www.DonorTime.com or call 1-800-388-GIVE.

The Holiday Fleece Travel Blanket is perfect for a dash through the snow in a one horse open sleigh… or to keep in the car during your holiday travels! The blanket is a bright Rudolph red with a reindeer and snowflake design and the edges stitched in white thread. The size is an ample four feet by four feet, nine inches and rolls neatly into a black travel pouch with the CBC blood drop logo.

The fleece blanket is free to anyone who registers to donate Monday, Dec. 21 through Saturday, Jan. 9 at any CBC Donor Center and most CBC mobile blood drives.

The busy holiday season is often a challenging time for maintaining the area blood supply. Winter weather can disrupt travel and seasonal illnesses can also interfere with donating. If you must miss an appointment to donate please reschedule as soon as you are able. We especially encourage the continued support of type O whole blood donors and type A/B platelet and plasma donors.

Learn more at www.GivingBlood.org

Darke County Parks Receives Grant

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The Darke County Park District would like to extend a huge thank you to the Harry Stephens Memorial Fund for their recent grant contribution. The funds will go toward procuring a new donor recognition board shaped like a tree.

All the donors throughout the Park District’s over 43 years of existence will be given proper credit for all they have done to make the Park District the success it is today. The tree can grow in branches and leaves, as the park district grows, ensuring that each donor gets properly recognized. The board will be a beautiful addition to the Nature Education Center, and it would be impossible to construct without the generous support from the Harry Stephens Memorial Fund. The Park District strives to provide the best possible experience to the residents of Darke County and beyond and to ensure comprehensive education for the stewards of tomorrow.

Thank you again to the Harry Stephens Memorial Fund for making this possible.

Monday, December 14, 2015

"The Sorority" Continues To Give To Boys & Girls Club

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A big thank you and much appreciation goes to of "The Sorority" (recently renamed) members (Diane Amick, Sharon Buchy, Paula Cox, Marty Davis, Jean Derr, Carolyn Hemmelgarn, Carol Hemmerich, Ruth Koverman, Kayann Kretschmar, Margy Manix, Judy Middleton, Joan Mote, Becky Muhlenkamp, Judy Rhynard, Susan Schaar, and Stephanie Szymansky) for their most recent $750 donation and for hosting this years Christmas Pizza Party for the boys and girls! Several of the ladies enjoy spending time tutoring the children, one on one , which is a big help to them also . Director Tom Jenkins said their donation will go toward arts and craft materials, some new games for Xbox 360, and some pots and pans for the kitchen that is in the planning stage. The children are usually hungry and love to eat so they are learning the responsibilities of cooking and how to make meals with nutritional ingredients that are also easy to make. They have attended several of Kitchen Aid's cooking classes to learn the fundamental basics, which they like to bring back to the club and duplicate.

The BGC currently has 40 members, which is up almost 25% from just a year ago. There are usually three adults, who monitor the club on a daily basis and more when the club has special trips. The Club's main goal is to make each child feel good about themselves and have some social activities outside of school. The BGC always accepts donations of various items. They currently are looking for bicycles that can be fixed up and given to some of their less fortunate members. If you would like to learn more about BGC or to make a material or cash donation, please contact BGC Director Tom Jenkins at 547-1122. The BGC is located at 613 S. Broadway in Greenville and membership fee is just $2 per year, which includes a BGC t-shirt. The Club is open Monday-Thursday from 4-8pm and Saturday 11am-4pm.

CHRISTMAS CANTATA

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"Call Him Jesus", a Christmas cantata, will be presented by the Greenville Wesleyan Holiness Youth Choir on Sunday morning, December 20, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. The primary and junior classes will also present the program, "Bethlehem's Bells."

The church is located at 201 Hall St., Greenville, OH 45331. Pastor Rodney Robbins and congregation extend an invitation to join them for this special Christmas service. For information, call 937-548-0226.

Greenville Senior High Instrumental Music Department to present Sounds of the Season

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The GHS Instrumental Music Department will present a concert on Thursday, December 17th at 7pm at Memorial Hall. The concert is free and open to the public. Sounds of the Season will include performances by the Jazz Scene, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band and the Orchestra.

The Jazz Scene will kick off the show with Holiday favorites Feliz Navidad and And the Angels Swing. They will also present a mini tribute to the rock band Journey with Any Way You Want it and Don't Stop Believing.

The Symphonic Band will present Fanfare Prelude on a Westminster Carol, In the Bleak Midwinter and Many Sounds of Christmas. The GHS Wind Ensemble will present Sleigh Ride, Magnum Mysterium and from The Snow Maiden: Prologue:"Carnival." The Wind Ensemble and Symphonic Bands are under the direction of Mr. Erick Von Sas.

The Orchestra will conclude the show with music from the Trans Siberian Orchestra. There will also be a grand finale featuring the Orchestra and Concert Choir, under the direction of Mrs. Chelsea Whirledge. The Orchestra and Choir will perform Let There Be Peace on Earth, O Holy Night and the traditional Hallelujah Chorus from The Messiah.

Please make plans to attend this wonderful concert featuring the instrumental and choral students of Greenville Senior High School. Once again, the concert is Thursday, December 17th at 7pm at the beautifully restored Memorial Hall. Questions concerning the performance can be directed to JR Price at 548-4188 or kprice@greenville.k12.oh.us. We hope to see you at this wonderful concert.

Dynes Wins $100 Certificate from HER Realtors

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HER Realtors would like to congratulate Donna Dynes for winning the $100 gift certificate of the Darke County Chamber of Commerce. Sue Bowman is an agent with HER Realtors and is presenting the certificate to Mrs. Dynes. We would like to thank everyone who entered the drawing and can't wait to see you next year at The Great Darke County Fair. Happy Holidays to all.

DCCA Artists Series Holiday Event Glenn Miller Orchestra “In The Christmas Mood” Sponsored In Memory of Gene Oda

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Rodney Oda with Andrea Jordan, DCCA Executive Director and Keith Rawlins,
DCCA Artistic Director; Oda is a sponsor of the DCCA Artists Series holiday event,
in memory of Gene Oda, The Glenn Miller Orchestra, Saturday,
December 19th at 8 p.m. at St. Clair Memorial Hall.
Darke County Center for the Arts recognizes Rodney Oda as a sponsor of the upcoming Artists Series performance the Glenn Miller Orchestra, Saturday, December 19th at St. Clair Memorial Hall. The Oda family is honoring the memory of Gene Oda with a sponsorship of the upcoming DCCA Holiday Event. “What a wonderful gift to the community! Rodney Oda’s generosity is inspiring,” said Andrea Jordan, Executive Director of DCCA. “We appreciate Oda’s long term support of the arts, and eagerness to give back to our community while recognizing his father,” she concluded.

The Glenn Miller Orchestra will bring its legendary sound to Henry St. Clair Memorial Hall in Greenville on Saturday, December 19 with their holiday program, “In the Christmas Mood.” The second presentation of Darke County Center for the Arts 2015-2016 Artists Series, the show will feature the 18-member ensemble playing many of the original Miller arrangements as well as modern selections performed in the Miller style. “These musicians do much more than recreate the past,” said DCCA Artistic Director Keith Rawlins. “They make music that may take listeners back to another time, but also entertains the socks off us right now!” he concluded. The sold out concert begins at 8 p.m.

Greenville National Bank is also sponsoring this show. Additionally, the Ohio Arts Council helped fund this program with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans. DCCA also receives operating support from the Harry D. and Esther Stephens Memorial as well as funding from the Ketrow Foundation and Lydia E. Schaurer Memorial Trust Fund.

Darke County Center for the Arts presents and promotes performing and fine arts encouraging cultural enrichment in the community, contact the DCCA office (937) 547-0908 or website CenterforArts.net for remaining ticket information and more information on the 2015-2016 season.

Greenville Athletic Boosters Meeting Tonight

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The Greenville Athletic Boosters will be having their meeting on Monday, December 14th, 2015 at 6:00 pm. The meeting will be held at Greenville High School in the AD office. The public is always welcome! Please come join us and help to make a difference for every student athlete!

“Experience The Miracle Of Christmas” on Thursday, December 24th @ Greenville Church of the Brethren

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We invite the community to our Christmas Eve Service – “Experience The Miracle Of Christmas” on Thursday, December 24th @ 8:00 pm, Greenville Church of the Brethren, 421 Central Ave., Greenville. Celebrate Christ’s birth through a worship service filled with music, our traditional candle lighting service and a message entitled, “The Miracle Of The Manger” which raises the important question as to the true identity of that baby born in a manger. A nursery is available. For more information call 548-3583.

Christmas Bird Count for Dec. Jr. Naturalists

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A horned lark in the snow photographed by Chief Naturalist, Robb Clifford.
Darke County Parks invites students in grades 3-6 to join them for the December Jr. Naturalists program on Saturday, December 19th from 9:30am to 12:00pm at Shawnee Prairie Preserve on St. Rt. 502 west of Greenville. The Jr. Naturalists program is a series of monthly programs designed to give students a hands-on introduction to natural resource management. Hikes, work projects, and independent study are all part of this fun-filled nature study club.

The December program will feature the Christmas Bird Count, a citizen science program organized in part by Audubon. Students will hit the trails at Shawnee Prairie and possibly other parks to see how many birds they can find and to participate in this annual holiday tradition dating back over 100 years. A fee of $3 is charged for the program, and preregistration is required. Students are asked to please dress for the weather and to bring a pair of binoculars if possible. There will also be binoculars available to borrow from the nature center. For any questions about the Jr. Naturalists program or any other Park District programs or to register for the December class, please call 548-0165 or email Hannah Linebaugh at hlinebaugh@darkecountyparks.org.

Friday, December 11, 2015

Walkin’ in a Winter Wonderland Sets Record

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The warmth of the log house and blacksmith shop beckoned to visitors through the clear, chilly night. Photographed by Chief Naturalist, Robb Clifford.
Darke County Parks’ annual Walkin’ in a Winter Wonderland holiday event saw the largest crowd to date on Saturday December 6th. This was the 8th year Darke County Parks has hosted this public and staff favorite event. Over 900 people made their way through the half mile trail of Shawnee Prairie Preserve lit with luminaries and crisp with the hint of frost on the air. Attendees also enjoyed decorating gingerbread men, making feeders for winter birds, and constructing Christmas ornaments in the Nature Center. The Friends of the Darke County Parks Gift Shop was open selling wreaths made of sorghum seed tops from the crop pressed at Prairie Days this fall, gift baskets, and much more. St. Nick even stopped in to see what was going on and visit with some good little girls and boys.

At the log house, 200 year old staff and volunteers welcomed the chilly travelers in true historic style with spiced cider warmed at the hearth and sorghum cookies baked in the cobb oven. A mountain dulcimer filled the air with Christmas peace, and even inspired some singing. Upstairs visitors were invited to string popcorn and cranberries to decorate their trees or feed their birds at home. Outside at the blacksmith shop, the anvil rang and the forged glowed bright.

The staff knew it would be a peak year with the combination of mild weather and the spectacular hoar frost that morning, but they didn’t expect to set a new attendance record. Robb Clifford, Chief Naturalist, said, “The weather variations always make it difficult to plan, but it was a great event.” Roger Van Frank, Director, said, “The weather was perfect. I would like to thank all the volunteers, staff, and public for making this such a successful event yet again.” If you missed it this year, next year’s 9th annual Walkin’ in a Winter Wonderland event will be held the first Saturday in December 2016. The Darke County Park District staff wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season.

‘SAVING LIVES IS SOMETHING I WANT TO DO’

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CBC BLIND DONOR LARRY SMITH INDUCTED INTO DONATION HALL OF FAME

Larry Smith with Fresenius Kabi 2016 Hall of Fame award.
DAYTON, Ohio - As a blind orphan boy growing up in the dark nightmare of the Marion County Children’s home, Larry Smith remembers asking God “Why am I even here?” Giving blood to help others became one of the many meaningful answers he has found in his lifetime. On Tuesday, Dec. 8 he called it “a dream come true,” to be inducted into the national Fresenius Kabi Donation Hall of Fame.

The induction ceremony took place at the Dayton Community Blood Center as Larry made an automated donation of double platelets for his 297th lifetime blood donation. “I think this is wonderful,” he said. “Boy, it’s almost unbelievable. Saving lives is something I absolutely want to do.”

CBC’s nomination of Larry for the Hall of Fame included the account of how he braved a winter storm on the day after Christmas in 2012 to make his scheduled blood donation. It was a valuable donation because the storm forced CBC to cancel all mobile blood drives and close all Donor Centers that day.

“The snow storm story stood out to everyone,” said Fresenius Kabi Account Executive Anthony Montemurro. “He told his friends if the center is open I’m going to be there. Your dedication to blood donations is an inspiration to us all and we are very happy to honor you with this award.”

Larry was surrounded by friends, fellow donors and CBC staff members as Montemurro presented him with an etched glass trophy cut in the shape of a blood drop. Larry is among 12 inductees honored in the Donation Hall of Fame 2016 donor calendar. A photo of Larry bundling up to brave the weather after that 2012 donation appears with the month of December.

Larry was born on July 4th, 1938. He has been blind since birth, and was abandoned as an infant on the steps of the Children’s Home. His life there was horrible. At the age of eight, in poor health and with failing grades, he questioned if life was worth living. A house mother he calls his “angel” came into his life and gave him the love and support he needed to survive and thrive.

Larry was able to have long career as a Grandview Hospital dark room technician. He ran marathons, competed in a blind bowling league, and sings in his church choir. He’s been a blood donor for 30 years and a platelet and plasma donor for nearly 20 years.

“Today he shines a light on the cause of blood donations. He shines a light on the work we do here at Community Blood Center,” said COO Jodi Minneman. “But most of all, he shines a light on the human spirit. Truly great things can be accomplished by people with will power, inner strength, and compassion. People like Larry Smith.”

Learn more at www.GivingBlood.org

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