Victory for the Ohio ag community: HSUS abandons ballot initiative

The far-left animal rights group HSUS (Humane Society of the United States) today abandoned its plan to put forth a proposed constitutional amendment on November's ballot. Instead, HSUS and the Ohio Farm Federation struck a deal on animal care standards in which HSUS will forego any ballot initiatives for the forseeable future.

HSUS has succeeded in passing initiatives in other states, but were certain to get crushed by the well-organized agricultural community here in Ohio. Today was the final day to submit ballot issues to the Secretary of State.

You can read the details of the compromise agreement here.
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Update: Below is a portion of the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation News Release:

Agreement Validates Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board

COLUMBUS, Ohio (OFBF) - The Ohio Farm Bureau Federation (OFBF) has announced its support for the agreement announced today between the Ohioans for Livestock Care coalition and the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).

The agreement validates Ohio voters’ decision last fall to pass State Issue 2, which established the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board as the appropriate venue for defining acceptable farm animal care practices.

“One of animal agriculture’s most vocal critics has agreed that the Livestock Care Standards Board is the proper authority to handle difficult questions about farm animal care,” said Jack Fisher, OFBF executive vice president. “This is truly a milestone and confirms Ohio ’s position as a national leader in farm animal care.”

OFBF cited additional reasons for supporting the agreement. Farmers now have certainty for an extended period of time regarding housing regulations. The livestock industry will be less vulnerable to emotional video used to sway public opinion on farm animal care. Farmers, their organizations and allies will not be forced into a multi-million dollar media battle.

Importantly, the agreement helps farmers live up to the promises they made during the Issue 2 campaign. “We will be able to continue producing safe, local, affordable food for Ohio ’s consumers,” Fisher explained. He added that the provisions of the agreement will protect jobs throughout the food industry.

Fisher complimented the Ohio agricultural organizations that have led the Ohioans for Livestock Care coalition. Farmer-leaders of Ohio’s beef, corn, dairy, pork, poultry and soybean organizations along with Farm Bureau “have been united in their commitment to do what’s best for farmers and consumers,” according to Fisher. Their unanimous acceptance of this agreement signals continued unity among all the groups.

“When farmers proposed the Care Board, we envisioned veterinarians, farmers, consumer advocates, animal specialists and other Ohioans making informed, transparent decisions on farm animal care issues,” Fisher said. “With this agreement, we have assured that the Board will have ample time to prove its value.”

Greetings from Cameroon (Part 4)

Teke’s water source. There are numerous
 springs that feed this stream.

Greetings again from the Southwest Province of Cameroon!

Another week has passed, and the stress of the visa situation has since left us, thankfully.

We continued the week surveying and evaluating the village of Teke. This is a village that we were handed the design of their planned water system at the beginning of the summer, and we came across major concerns from an engineering perspective. It is frustrating to see how many of these water systems have been designed. There appears to be a lack of understanding of fundamental hydraulics and of health organization codes, and this is evident in both the design plans and in speaking with the designers and the water committees of the villages. The training (if any) of these designers is inadequate… and there isn’t any true engineering schools in Cameroon. Many of them are technician schools, which are a great start, but there needs to be better understanding of very basic hydraulics.

One of the biggest problems that result from these poor designs is that communities can be told falsely that a system will work. In several of the systems we have evaluated, there have been issues of poorly performed surveys and improper use of hydraulic terminology. Systems have been designed badly, with pressures in some locations high enough to burst pipes, tap stands that water will not reach, and expensive storage tanks when they are not needed. In short: villages are under the assumption that the design will work, when that is not the case.

Granted, some of the systems we have designed for villages may not work up to the standards we would like. There are many things that need to align and come together for a gravity based water system to work, and we have come across major characteristics of the villages’ water sources that does not make the design of such a system easy. Some things consist of whether the stream source provides enough water for the demand, the elevations along the path to the village, and the length of the distance from the source to the village. However, it is important to be able to have an honest and frank conversation that may be hard to have with the village leaders. We will be expecting to have such conversations with two villages in the next few days.

Now on to lighter matters – I can tell you the place you do not want to be: when your home country’s football (soccer) team loses to an African nation when you are in an African nation… Everyone around us began to cheer pretty heartedly when the final whistle sounded. As much as I wanted Ghana to do well, it was bittersweet to see them do well at the hands of the US. America played great, and they had incredible opportunities to score. But the difference between teams that win and those that don’t is that the ones that win capitalize on those opportunities. So hats off to Ghana, they earned that win with some fantastic shots.

It is hard to believe I have been in Cameroon for just over 4 weeks now, and I am halfway through my trip. There has been so many beautiful sights I’ve seen and experiences which have already shaped me for the better, and I’m excited to see what we can accomplish in this last month before we depart on the 30th.

Until then, I’ll just be dreaming of funnel cakes from the Great Darke County Fair!

Geoff Holmes, Civil Engineer, FE, University of Dayton '10 graduate

Photos below: (L) A dance club in Kumba – I am slowly losing my 2nd left foot, (R) During a 2nd survey trip to Teke, our team member Wyatt got knee high in water while walking along the stream.

AMERICORPS GRANT AWARDED TO LOCAL AGENCY

The Ohio Community Service Council has announced that Council on Rural Services has been awarded $50,000 in an AmeriCorps Planning Grant for 2010-2011. The planning grant will be used to develop a new program to fill a service gap for rural Darke, Miami and Shelby County students. The program will target students that are at-risk of dropping out of school and continuing in generational poverty.

4-car accident on East Main Street, Greenville

Approx. 2:45 p.m. Photo from TMR.

Yuk ... some photos of Grand Lake St. Mary's

Forwarded from S.P.

New listing - Darke County websites

Darke County Farm Bureau

Fitzwater's donates labor to spruce up the post office

David Furlong Owner and Certified Arborist of Fitzwater Tree & Lawn Care and one of his customers teamed up with Fitzwater’s donating labor, equipment and material to Trim all shrubbery around the post office, edge and mulch all beds and apply lawn treatment.

Channel 7's Steve Baker will be meeting with David and his crews on Thursday July 1, 2010 at 8:00 am at the post office.

[submitted]

TAKING APPLICATIONS FOR HEAD START PRESCHOOL STARTING FALL 2010

Do you need free or inexpensive childcare while getting your child ready for kindergarten? Early life experiences today do affect your child’s tomorrow. Kids Learning Place can help with a variety of learning experiences in a child care setting. Now is the time to call, we are currently accepting applications for the Head Start preschool program which will begin in September 2010.

Head Start is a federally funded preschool program that provides children with a classroom learning environment or visiting home base opportunity for your child’s early learning. We have degreed teachers in every classroom, and provide positive education experiences by using a research-based curriculum that gives parents on-line access to their child’s records.

Our centers in Greenville, Bradford and Union City are places where children will find a love of learning in a creative, nurturing setting. The centers have also received “Step Up To Quality” awards from the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. These awards are given to identify programs that exceed licensing standards in staff-to-child ratios, education, screenings, and curriculum planning.

To be eligible for this FREE preschool program, a child must be three years old and the family must meet federal income guidelines. The program also provides services to children of families that are homeless; children with disabilities are considered without income restrictions.

For more information about this program or to enroll, call our toll free number 1-866-627-4557 for immediate contact. You can check the Web site at www.councilonruralservices.org, also become a fan of Council on Rural Services and see all the wonderful things that are happening at the agency, by going to http://www.facebook.com/councilonruralservices. 

Council on Rural Services provides education, support, and volunteer services through Kids Learning Place™, Head Start, Early Head Start, Gateway Youth Programs, and HandsOn West Central Ohio in their nine county service area.

Craig Stammen wins in return to majors

After a brief stop in the minors, Versailles' Craig Stammen was called up Tuesday to start the Nationals' game against the Braves.

Stammen made the most of the second chance, winning the game with this line: 7.1 IP, 5H, 2R, 2ER, 2BB, 4K, raising his record to 2-2.

Stammen also helped his cause at the plate with an RBI-sac fly. Great job Craig!

Two WHIO video updates on the Grand Lake St. Mary's situation

Celina: ODNR, EPA discuss algae on Grand Lake

St. Mary's: State officials view Grand Lake St. Mary's (Steve Baker)

Twilight double feature at Wayne tonight

Click image for Eclipse preview. For tonight only, The Karate Kid will have its last show at 6:20pm.

Jobs (by Mike Stegall)

Every politician this time of year starts telling us what they are going to do for us (or to us in some cases) if elected. It is part and parcel to the election process. It is always the same, too. Lower taxes, cut in government spending, more this, more that, and last but not least, jobs. All politicians know that jobs are what drive our economy, and without them, they cannot give some of our money back to us. They realize that jobs create tax money, and tax money allows them to spend it the way they think we want. Not necessarily spent wisely, but spent none the less. Every politician has a plan for government to create jobs as they constantly tell us daily. “We need to do this, we need to do that” and blah, blah, blah. I am by definition now a politician, although I prefer the term “elected official”. (Politicians tell you what you want to hear; elected officials tell you what they think.) I am, however, no different than politicians in that I, too, have a plan for jobs in Darke County.

First, let me start by telling you a “dirty little secret” politicians don’t like people to know: Government cannot create jobs! The only jobs it can create are government jobs. If you think about it, we get no goods or services from government that adds to our economy. Government produces no products or services; it spends the money we give it to give us the services it provides back to us! So, what can government do to help the job market? The answer is simple but difficult for most politicians to do: Get out of the way and make it easier for businesses to operate. I have no illusions about the job situation in Darke County. It is bad, bouncing around 10 and 11 percent unemployment. I do believe, though, at the local level there are things we can do to help. I am proud to say that I see some progress in Darke County. We now have an economic development Director, Mark Saluk, who should be the focal point for businesses in the County. I believe that Mark should speak for all of Darke County when he talks to businesses already here and new business looking to settle here. The Darke County Chamber of Commerce, headed by Sharon Deshambeau, is a key part of this plan, as is the Versailles Chamber and all the Community Improvement Corporations (C. I. C’s). Although the Chambers, C. I. C.’s and the Economic Development Director do have different jobs to perform, they should work as a team to enhance the business climate in the county.

I have talked to these people, and do believe we are on the right track. The best part is these people do care. I believe that if a company comes to Darke County and, after looking around, decides it wants to do business in Ansonia, then we should do everything possible to put it there! That may mean that other communities might have to swallow hard and help Ansonia, or whatever community, get the business. Don’t undermine each other. All the behind-the-scene and backroom deals only allow the company to get a better deal for it, not all of us. If one town or village or city wins, we all win. Let’s do everything possible to help Darke County, not the individual company.

I also believe we can surely streamline some of our processes for businesses. Believe it or not, red tape can be cut; we just have to be willing to do it. Permit applications/acceptance, inspections, and other government requirements can be reduced without loss of protection or revenue for our County. I also believe that we do not want every company out there to come here. We want good employers, ones who realize that they also have a stake in the future of the County. I do not want a company that will only come here if we “sell the farm” to get it here. That kind of company will only leave after it has gotten all it can from the County. We don’t want or need companies like that. During the primary, one of my opponents said he wanted to be a “friend” of business. That is fine, but I prefer to be a “partner” with business. Sometimes when we are “friends” we may overlook what our “friend” is doing, and that may not be in the best interests of all. If we are “partners”, we both now have a shared interest in the success of the business, and the County.

Darke County has many assets, as I have stated before: plentiful resources, land, business parks, and a willing and able workforce. We, in government, just need to help it along, reduce the red tape, and let the people now in place do their job.

Farmers Market Vendor Spotlight - Sarah Royer of Baby Bling

Sarah Royer has brought her creative designs to the Downtown Greenville Farmers' Market this year. With a wealth of talent, Sarah has sewn vintage and modern pillowcases into dresses for toddlers that they can grow into as shirts when they reach 4-5 years of age. Being a mom of four, Sarah knows that style as well as convience and functionality need to marry each other. She has designed travel wipes that any mom would love to strut around. Using modern fabrics and oversized flowers, the traveling wipe cases also make a nice clutch purse for an evening out!

If those items weren't enough, headbands baby legwarmers, and burp clothes all adorn handstitched elements by Sarah.

A hot item at her table is Homemade Laundry Soap. With natural ingredients, Sarah's mix is so affordable and tough at fighting dirt.

The Baby Bling table has been a great asset to the Farmers' Market this year. Sarah along with her daughter Lily have great personality to welcome market goers. This week Sarah is featuring Red, White and Blue headbands and dresses to celebrate the 4th of July in style.

** The next Greenville Farmers Market will be Wednesday, June 30, from 2pm to 6pm next to the Darke County Courthouse.

Executive Director sought for Garst Museum

The Darke County Historical Society seeks an Executive Director for its Garst Museum (www.garstmuseum.org). The museum is located in Greenville , Ohio , the seat of rural Darke County . The facility encompasses 38,000 square feet within several interconnected buildings, and the public areas include several major venues -- Crossroads of Destiny (a recently installed and highly regarded exhibit interpreting Ft. Greenville and the significant 1795 and 1814 treaties signed there), the Annie Oakley Center (which houses the most extensive collection of artifacts illuminating the life of this legendary woman performer and Darke County native), and an exhibit showcasing the exploits and contributions of Lowell Thomas (internationally renowned broadcaster and adventurer and Darke County Native). The Museum’s holding also include a fine collection of military uniforms dating from 1812 to the present, material featuring Lt. Commander Zachary Lansdowne, Captain of the ill-fated airship USS Shenandoah, and smaller but significant collections of decorative arts (e.g., Currier and Ives prints).

The Society intends to engage the talents and dedication of a visionary leader who will move the museum into the next phase(s) of its growth through strategic planning, enhanced fundraising, volunteer recruitment and training, and further program development.

Qualified candidates will have significant and relevant experience for this position, including financial management and staff supervision. Other required skills include oral and written communication, developing and utilizing computerized data bases, and interest and ability in developing and sustaining positive and productive relationships with the Society’s Board, membership, staff, volunteers, and community. Proven success in fundraising, including grant-writing, will be a plus.

The initial annual base salary will reflect the skills and experiences of the appointee, and will be in the $25-35,000 range; additional financial incentives and fringe benefits may be offered. The Darke County Historical Society is an equal opportunity employer.

Interested parties should submit a resume reflecting education, prior employment, and other relevant experiences by August 15, 2010, to: John F. Marchal, ATTN: Search Committee, 116 W. Fourth Street, Greenville, OH 45331.

The Classics Vocal Quartet To Perform at BRC on Sunday, June 27 at 7 pm - Public is invited

UPDATE: if you missed the show, here are the Classics singing a familiar hit.


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If you have not heard them perform, you are missing something special!

The Classics, a local quartet, will be performing at Brethren Retirement Community on Sunday, June 27 at 7PM

Weather permitting, they will perform outdoors around the waterfall - if the weather does not cooperate we will move the concert into the Brick Room. This event is FREE and the public is invited.

Specializing in performing 50's and 60's music, their unique harmony and comedic antics have entertained audiences since 1993. Their shows mix "Rock and Roll" and "Doo Wop" with beautiful Ballads.

This group provides a great show... mark your calendars now and bring your lawn chairs. We hope to see you then!

The Classics Vocal Quartet

Without Respect for Life, Freedom is in Jeopardy

Minority Leader John Boehner delivered remarks at the National Right to Life Convention in Pittsburgh, where he received the National Right to Life Legislative Leadership Award for his pro-life leadership in Congress. [Boehner's office forwarded the link for the video below].

Algae strikes Grand Lake St. Mary's ... again

Details at The Daily Standard.

FREE Summer Splash Swim Lessons at the Darke County YMCA

The YMCA of Darke County is pleased to announce it will offer FREE Summer Splash Swim Lessons to children ages 6 through 12 years old at both the Greenville and Versailles facilities in July. Accidental drowning is the number one preventable death in young people and the YMCA Summer Splash Swim Lesson will address backyard and pool safety, waterpark and beach safety, boating safety as well as basic swimming fundamentals. The Greenville Facility will offer the free class Monday, July 12th through Thursday, July 15th. The Versailles Facility will offer the free class Monday, July 26th through Thursday, July 29th. Children participating will meet each day from 10:30-11:15 am (children ages 6-8 years old), 11:30 am-12:15 pm (children ages 9-10 years old) or 12:30-1:15 pm (children ages 11-12 years old). Pre-registration is REQUIRED. Registration deadline for the Greenville class is Friday, July 9th. Registration deadline for the Versailles class is Friday, July 24th. To register your child, contact the YMCA at 548-3777 in Greenville or 526-4488 in Versailles or stop by either facility. The Summer Splash Swim Lesson Program is made possible in part by the Harry D. Stephens Memorial Foundation.

Photos from Pensacola Beach - taken 6/23/10

J.S. forwarded these photos from his sister-in-law who lives in Florida. So sad.

Do you love to read the paper?

HandsOn West Central Ohio needs a volunteer to clip media from local newspapers about HandsOn West Central Ohio, including the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. The volunteer will need to date and label from which paper the article has come and mail it to our office. This flexible position may be completed from the comfort of your own home. All materials are provided by HandsOn West Central Ohio. Volunteers must have legible handwriting and be able to work on their own. Volunteers should be at least 13 years old to serve in this family-friendly position.

“Volunteers in this position allow our staff to focus on other projects,” says Nicolette Winner, HandsOn West Central Ohio Director. “Recording the milestones of our program help us better communicate our program’s impact to the community, secure additional grants and more.”

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

No-Cost Home and Community Based Services for Older Ohioans Who Qualify

PASSPORT Program For Home and Community Based Services For Older Adults Now Enrolling Older Adults

PASSPORT is a Medicaid waiver program designed by the State of Ohio to provide services to the elderly at home..


Many seniors, and their families, are unaware that help is available for those who qualify. Brethren Retirement Community and Spirit Medical Transport are collaborating to provide two meetings in July to provide experts who will address the PASSPORT program and the requirements to participate.

More

A few more sunset photos from Dick Brown

Sunday evening photos from Jeannie Grosch

Video report on Rumpke fire

Click image for report from Steve Baker.

What stories do you want to hear about?

The best DarkeJournal stories so far have come from reader tips. So what else is going on out there that the local press is not covering? What are the best kept secrets in Darke County? What person - current or former resident - is doing amazing things that nobody knows about?

Leave your tips in the comments? [the best ones may be read but not posted]

RUMPKE: Routes On Schedule, Closed To Public (due to fire)

Story at WHIOtv.com. [thanks to K.B.]

St. Clair Place for sale - auction set for August 7th

This is probably old news to a lot of people - but there have not been any stories to date on DarkeJournal. You can read the St. Clair Place media release here.

Garst Museum Flower Show - this weekend

Saturday, June 26 and Sunday June 27 the Darke County Association of Garden clubs is putting on a spectacular exhibit of “Annie Oakley” themed flower arrangements. Garst Museum is hosting the show in connection with the Year of Annie Oakley, celebrating her 150th Birthday.

The title of the show is “ANNIE, THE PRIDE OF DARKE COUNTY”. Committee members are: Pam Clark, Irma Heiser, Lila Pinney, Barbara Rhoades, and Charlene Thornhill.

Sunday hours are 1pm to 4pm.

Alisha Marie Patty named CWFA 2010 Queen

Alisha is a junior at Bradford, hosted by the Gettysburg Rural Fire Department. Greenville's Ashton Dohme was runner-up representing the Greenville Fire Department. More details here - or click on the image for Steve Baker's video report.

Weekend weather preview from ABM

Reminder: Two great movies playing at Wayne this weekend

Especially if you have kids: Toy Story for the younger ones; and Karate Kid for the tweeners (8 and up, I'd say). Click the link down on the left sidebar for times and trailers.

Saturday at Greenville's Farmers Market

Market Vendors for Saturday, June 26, 9am to 1pm @ 4th and Broadway at the Courthouse

Yappy Treats-Brenda McDonald
Yappy Treats uses all natural ingredients in all products. They are great tasting and very nutritious with no additives, fillers, or chemicals. We do not use added salt or sugarto our hand rolled, hand cut, and fresh baked, treats. Yappy Treats wants the very best for every one of their canine friends. They are not only delicious but also wholesome and good for your dog.

Baby Bling- Sarah Royer
Handmade baby accessories including headbands, decorative wipe travel containers, vintage pillowcase dresses and leg warmers. Homemade laundry soap.

Janet's Broadway Bakery- Janet Wideman
Breads, cookies, pies, scones, cakes, brownies, cinnamon rolls and muffins

Herbs by Mandy- Mandy Martin
Fresh and Dried Herbs. Fresh Lavendar, Rosemary, Sage, Chocolate Mint, Lemon Balm, Chamomile, and Dill. Dried Thyme, Basil, Chamomile. Snow Peas and Lettuce

Rhoadeside Noodles and More- Keith and Marlene Rhoades
Noodles and angel food cakes

Woodsview Alpaca Farm- Michelle Dircksen
Alpaca yarn, fiber, scarfs, blankets, socks, necklaces and so much more.

Cindy's Desserts- Cindy Bright
Pies: Dutch apple, apple crumb, peach, pecan, strawberry, blueberry, old fashion cream
Cakes: chocolate, strawberry, bannana, apple, white chocolate raspberry, pineapple, double chocolate rum pound cake. Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp, Peach Cobbler, Blueberry Cobbler, Raspberry Brownie Torte

Wolfe's Produce-Kurt, Ann, Nathan and Benjamen Wolfe
Lettuce, Beets, fresh spearmint, tea, and baked goods

EAT Food for Life-Scott Smith
Organic meats, cheeses, nuts, and raw honey

Josephine Candle Company-Amber Schmerge
Soy candle with pure essential oils. Handmade rugs.

Communal Table
A table for your extra produce or items that you would like to bring to the market but don't have the time to set up. We sell your product for you. Just bring it to the market by 9am.

Thank you from BTO Yogurt

To friends, neighbors and readers of Darke Journal,

I wanted to say THANK YOU to all. My husband Jeff Shank and I opened BTO SELF SERVE FROZEN YOGURT in July 2009. It has been a fun and interesting ride. I love running and working at the local Yogurt shop and I have enjoyed the rhetoric of the last few days on the chat regarding our store and product. All the yogurt served at BTO has a milk base so yes it does contain dairy. Our product is very low in fat and calories and it all contains live active pro-biotic yogurt cultures. What we offer is a healthy treat/snack at .39cents per ounce. We also offer the opportunity to 'JUST DO IT....YOURSELF" as our new t-shirts say. An average serving of frozen yogurt is about 5 oz. At BTO this is a cost of $1.95. So if you want the alternative of a healthy snack, and a clean pleasant atmosphere, stop in and spend about $2.00. If you want to super-size your snack it will cost you more.

We have a new mailbox of which I am very proud. All the chatter started with a comment regarding "where is super John" in relationship to our new mailbox. I offer my Thank You to John Schmidt for starting all this chatter. I am most thankful for the 99% positive comments. I want to invite i69 to visit BTO Self Serve Frozen Yogurt for a free taste and to share any ideas for possible improvement of our product and or store/operation.

I would also like to say that if the employees and or elected officials of Greenville and Darke County would spend half as much time and resources attempting to help new business upstarts as they do hasseling them, we all would greatly benefit.

Yesterday sales were up approx $50.00, that's about 25 more customers. Thank You Darke Journal and readers.

Pam Musser Shank

[Additional note: my vanilla yogurt with coconut and almonds yesterday was great, cost $1.91, and was more than I could eat.]

Blood Drive Grudge Match - June 28th

Ansonia FFA vs Mississinawa Valley FFA Blood Drive Grudge Match will take place on Monday, June 28 from 2-6 at Ansonia HS Gym. The school that gets the most donors receives a travelling trophy. Contact Brad Lentz by email at brad.lentz@ansonia.k12.oh.us or Stephanie Conway at stephanie_shertzer@darke.k12.oh.us or click on the link to sign up for a time.

Further info at www.donortime.com.

Steve Baker follows up with video on new Versailles school

Comprehensive video on the new school - and what the district will be doing with all the old buildings. [click image]

Arcanum Class of 1999 reunion - August 21st

The Arcanum High School graduating class of 1999 is having an eleven year reunion this summer. Come celebrate with old classmates on August 21st at the AHS gym at 12:00 pm. Then we will be heading back to Ivester Park in Arcanum for a family style picnic with good food, games and visiting. If you have not received your invitation or you have questions please contact Julie Moore Brothers at 417-1124. The deadline to r.s.v.p. is July 30th.

Bowers and Beam will speak to DCRWC - July 12th

Mike Bowers                                 Kathy Beam

The Darke County Republican Women’s Club will hold their monthly meeting on Monday, July 12 at the Brethren Community Center at 6:30 p.m. Speakers for the evening will be Greenville Mayor, Michael Bowers and Citizens4Change spokeswoman, Kathy Beam.

This is a dinner meeting, so reservations are required. Please call Wavelene at wdenniston@woh.rr.com or 547-6477.

Those wishing to hear the program and not have dinner could arrive at 7:00 p.m. For more information please call President Margaret Muhlenkamp at 548-7172.

Versailles ready to dedicate new school

Story at WHIOtv.com.

Groundbreaking Ceremony for BRC's Chestnut Village Expansion

Chestnut Village Groundbreaking For New Homes

Brethren Retirement Community and Chestnut Village recently celebrated an important event in the history of BRC. The expansion of Chestnut Village in part helps fulfill our on-going plan to extend our offering of services to the community and comes at the same time that our new company, Brethren Home Community Services, begins to gain momentum in offering in home non-medical care and adult day services.

The groundbreaking ceremony marks the expansion of our independent living options that began in 1986. The last unit built in Chestnut Village was in 1996 and now we have the opportunity to build 4 more homes.

“Chestnut Village will continue to be an integral part of BRC and our service to older adults", comments John Warner, President and CEO. "We are happy to offer our expanded ministry services to the community and appreciate the support that we receive.”

Former sheriff Robert Sullenbarger passes away at 71

Mr. Robert Dean Sullenbarger, age 71 of Union City, Ohio, passed away on Tuesday June 22, 2010 at 9:30 AM at his residence. He was born February 4, 1939 in Union City, Ohio the son of the late Robert and Mildred (Vanatta) Sullenbarger.

He served in the United State Air Force. He work for Mong Construction, for the Ohio State patrol for 9 years, Prosecutors investigator for 5 years, Sheriff of Darke County for 12 years, he also worked at Farm and Fleet, Fitzwater’s, Kinnisons, and GTI.

He was a member of the American Legion, 40 and 8 Voiture, Buckeye State Sheriffs Association-life member, Elks, NRA. He enjoyed trapshooting, fishing, boating, and was a fan of John Wayne, NASCAR, Dale Earnhardt, and Dale Earnhardt Jr.

He is preceded in death by his parents; Brother: Nolan Sullenbarger.

He is survived by his wife: Rita (Anderson) Sullenbarger of Union City, Ohio whom he married June 22, 1973; Son & daughter in law: David and Angela Sullenbarger of Texas, Grandson: Nicholas; Granddaughters: Donie and Zoie; 3 devoted dogs; Brother and sister in law: Dan & Paula Bubemyre of Hamilton, Ohio; Brother in law & spouse: Charles and Penny Anderson of Eaton, Ohio; Sister in law: Bonnie Watkins of Eaton, Ohio; numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Services will be held on Monday June 28, 2010 at 10:30 AM at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio with Pastor Alan Knoke officiating. Burial will follow in Union City Cemetery, Union City, Indiana. Family will receive friends from 2:00 to 5:00 PM on Sunday June 27, 2010 at the funeral home. Full military services will be conducted by the Greenville Veterans Honor Guard. Memorial contributions may be given to Fraternal Order of Police or Buckeye State Sheriffs Association.

Next for C4C: PAINTING OF SHELTER PROJECT

We first want to thank all of you that came out to the Town Hall Meeting last weekend. A lot of great information was shared and many residents spoke from the heart and even some that offered solutions.

There has been a lot of publicity this week in the media which is great for all of us. This creates a “noise” in the community that we are here to get things done and “Clean up our city”.

Since the meeting, a lot of suggestions, comments and feedback has been given to the group. As one citizen pointed out, in the video online at the Daily Advocate, you could clearly see all the graffiti on the walls of the Park Shelter that we were using. This individual stated to me – I will help volunteer my time to clean that up. I contacted the Greenville Parks and Recreation superintendent and heard back today what type of paint and color to use. The paint has been donated, and now we are asking for volunteers to contact us to have a paint party at Shelter House # 3. We will paint all the inside cement walls and clean up the shelter. This is just one small project that this group and our citizens can do that can make a huge difference.

We are in the process of planning our next Town Hall meeting for July. More updates will follow. Our website is continuing to be updated daily with new information on current projects and links to various websites that can educate and inform.

Please go to the website and send an email or call one of the members of C4C and let us know if you can help with the painting of the shelter. We are planning to do this next week one early evening. Mark your calendar: Tuesday July 6th at 7:30 pm Greenville City Council Meeting

Again, thank you for your support and for helping this city to grow and prosper once again.

Rick and Kathy Beam, John Baumgardner, Lisa Francis

EMERGENCY PHONE NOTIFICATION LOCATES MISSING JUVENILE

On June 23, 2010 at approximately 5:30 PM the Darke County Sheriff’s Office received a report from 8732 Miller-Brumbaugh Road that a 14 year old male had been missing since 2 PM today and could not be located. This location is in rural southeast Darke County in Monroe Township. Darke County Sheriff’s Deputies and Detectives were dispatched to the scene to investigate. It was determined that the 14 year old juvenile had been disciplined by his parents prior to leaving their rural property. The family attempted to locate the juvenile on their own accord but was unable to do so. The juvenile was not known to run away previously. The parents became concerned after the time elapsed and they failed to locate him. Due to special circumstances with the child and environmental concerns such as waterways nearby a comprehensive search of the area was launched. Pitsburg Fire Department along with numerous surrounding mutual aid fire companies responded and assisted in the search of the juvenile.

At 7:00 PM the Darke County Sheriff’s Office activated the Emergency Notification System. This system utilizes mass telephone notification of a specified area. The notification in this case was a three mile radius from where the juvenile was last seen and also included the Village of Pitsburg. A description of the missing child was broadcast through this system. At 7:18 PM the Darke Sheriff’s Office received calls from two residents on Meadow Lane near Pitsburg reporting the location of the child. Both callers had received the notification and observed the child in a cornfield. One of the residents stayed with the juvenile until deputies arrived a short time later. The juvenile was reunited with his family by 7:48 PM. This is a positive example of what an Emergency Notification System can do to assist in public safety.

Arcanum 8U Mini Boys take 3rd place

Arcanum 8U Mini Boys took 3rd place in the Arcanum All-Stars tournament June 20th. Great job boys!

New addition to the business listings

Teaford's Pizza & Subs

Spotted at Brethren Retirement Community

Residents, Dan Morrow and Larry Kruckeberg try out BRC's newest vehicle - a Trike built for 2!

This trike is available for residents and their families to enjoy.

Two riders of different sizes strengths and abilities can ride together, with each rider pedaling at his/her own rate.  When a rider is not pedaling, the wheels don't turn so they can truly "relax and enjoy the ride" and take a break as needed.

OUR VERSION OF TOUCHDOWN JESUS

Ashley will be 14 on 6/25.



HAPPY BIRTHDAY ASHLEY!

OSU Extension Calendar for July

JULY, 2010: 1 - Ag Breakfast, 7:30am, Brethrens Retirement Center Cafeteria; 1 - Extension Advisory Committee, 7:00pm, OSUE Learning Center; 5 - 4th of July Observance, Extension Office closed; 8 - Helping Children Succeed After Divorce, 3:00-5:00pm, OSUE Learning Center; 10 - CARTEENS, 9:00-11:00am, OSUE Learning Center.

For more information, please call 937.548.5215 or email dark@cfaes.osu.edu.

The Central Western Fireman's Association annual conference - June 25th & 26th

The Central Western Fireman's Association annual conference is being held In Gettysburg on Friday June 25th and Saturday June 26th. The Public is invited.

* Waterball Contest * Hose Evolution * Queens Contest
* Gear Donning * Hose Line * Tough Man * Hose Cart
* Truck Judging * Bucket brigade * Various vendors

Discussion with John Graham

I sat down with John Graham (and another person) on Monday to discuss his Good Samaritan Program. Many, many things were discussed - only some of which will be written here - but in fairness to Graham, I wanted to address some areas where he felt the prior DarkeJournal reporting was inaccurate.

#1 - The occupancy expense on the Good Samaritan Home tax returns

A prior story (link here) highlighted figures from the Good Samaritan Home tax returns, including specifically Graham's salary and the "occupancy expense" of the Good Samaritan Home, Inc. It was speculated that the "occupancy expense" could be money that the nonprofit was paying to Graham in rent. The entire ocupancy expense was listed in the original story. Later, Graham's accountant called clarifying that only about half of the occupancy expense was allocated to rent (and that clarification was added in the story).

Graham objected to the way the article was written because it gave the appearance that the allocation to rent was far more than it actually was, and that the article implied that he was "profiteering."

#2 - Six sex offenders living in the Ludlow Street property

The original DarkeJournal story on May 28 (link here) described how 12 sex offenders were living in three houses owned by Graham - with six being in a single house on Ludlow Street. A later story (link here) detailed how two of the Ludlow Street residents were moved to other Graham houses on the same day (5/28) as the original DarkeJournal article. All of this information was taken directly from the Darke County Sheriff website.

Graham claims this information was false, that six men were not living in the Ludlow Street residence on May 28th. Graham states that the Sheriff's website was wrong, and that nobody was moved in response a DarkeJournal article.

#3 - A sex offender living in the homeless shelter

Multiple stories (one link is here) have described how a convicted rapist is living in a building billed as a homeless shelter.

Graham states that this reporting is inaccurate. Graham owns a double apartment at 449-451 East Third Street in Greenville. At last check, there were two registered sex offenders residing at 449 East Third Street. A third registed sex offender, a convicted rapist, is currently listed as living at 451 East Third Street. And Graham's homeless shelter is also listed various places as being 451 East Third Street. However, Graham states that it is inaccurate to state that a convicted rapist is living in the homeless shelter because the convicted rapist is living in the downstairs unit of 451 East Third, and the homeless shelter is the upstairs unit of 451 East Third.

The DarkeJournal response: I will not take the time to write out rebuttals on all these issues. You have the links to the old stories and Graham's objections. You can make up your own mind.

Aside from the alleged inaccuracies, Graham objected that stories were written without consulting him. And even as to the presentation of facts, he felt that the way the facts were presented was misleading and created fear in the community. According to Graham, the stories lacked "balance."

Graham said repeatedly that the program is good for the community. Graham said that people would accept the program if they knew all the facts, and he was open to talk to anyone anytime. He was offered the opportunity to write anything he wanted to be posted on DarkeJournal, but he declined.

Graham also objected to the use of anonymous comments, so here is the challenge to DarkeJournal readers: leave your full name and email address if you want to comment on this story.

A very interesting story will follow in the next couple days. Stay tuned.

Too much rain for Darke County farmers

Thanks again to WHIO and Steve Baker for the video ......

Newbauer arraigned for North Star Robbery

The first of several planned robberies? Click image for WHIO video.

Greetings from Cameroon (Part 3)

A view of a street in Yaoundé

Hello again from Kumba, Cameroon!

Not much was actually accomplished in the past week. We have spent a large amount of our time trying to work with the frontier police here in Cameroon attempting to extend our visas. Through some error, wyatt and I was given visas for one month as opposed to three months. The process has been fairly stressful, as we only heard news of the director’s decision to extend our visas only Monday night, the 21st, while our visas expire the 25th.

As stressful as this process has been, it has allowed us to travel to different parts of Cameroon.

We first traveled to Buea, the capital of the SouthWest province, on Monday the 14th. This is set in a very beautiful and picturesque area, as the city rests at the foot of Mount Cameroon, an active volcano and the highest point in Cameroon. I have learned lots about Cameroonian geography through this trip. Apparently lake Barombi Mbo, just to the north of Kumba, is a crater lake formed by the “burping” of the earth. I hope to visit the crater lake at some point, and the three of us have briefly talked of climbing the mountain. There is a race to the top of Mt. Cameroon every year. I wonder if I should take this challenge as opposed to another marathon…

Tuesday we returned to work, and visited the village of Teke, a short drive from our base city of Kumba. There we gathered some data and were to return at a later date to complete our work.

Wednesday and Thursday we spent visiting the Cameroon capital city of Yaoundé. This is a major city, much like Douala. We spent the night in a hotel within eyesight of the soccer team’s national arena, which is huge! After spending some time at the frontier police station, we had some downtime and walked around the city some to see the sights. We then returned to the police station, at which they told us they would review the matter and make a decision Monday, and we returned home.

We have been watching lots of soccer, and Friday after work we went to watch the United States match at a small bar. We are all still convinced the US got robbed of a win. Then on Saturday we watched helplessly as Cameroon lost their second match, and became the first team knocked out of the cup.

Hopefully now that the visa issue has been resolved, we will be able to be much more productive in the coming weeks! And I hope everyone takes the day off Wednesday to watch the US play their final (and crucial) match against Algeria!!!

[by Geoff Holmes, Civil Engineer, FE, University of Dayton '10 graduate]

Cameroon national soccer stadium in Yaoundé

Watching Cameroon soccer match Saturday afternoon

4-family garage sale

4 Family Garage Sale Thursday & Friday (6/24 & 6/25) from 9 to 5. 5546 Auburn Drive, Greenville. Located just east of Greenville off Jaysville St John’s Rd. Clean kids clothing from infant to Junior’s. Adult clothing. Banzai Double Cannon Blast Water Slide, used twice. Christmas Decorations. Children Toy’s. Books and miscellaneous merchandise. Everything priced to sell.

John Graham speaks to Bob Robinson

It's all at Bob Robinson's blog - link here.

Greenville, Arcanum finish 1-2 in weekend tournament (Updated w/ better photo)

The Greenville 11/12U All-Star baseball team won the Arcanum tournament today. Arcanum came in 2nd place. Good job boys! (sorry-took pic from cell phone) [submitted]

“BUILDING BLOCKS II” PARENTING CLASS SCHEDULED

OSU Extension, Darke County, has scheduled a “Building Blocks II” parenting series. The classes will be held July 15 and 22, 2010, at the OSU Extension Learning Center, 603 Wagner Avenue, Greenville. The class times are from 6:00-8:00pm. There is no fee for this class. This is an adult only series.

The “Building Blocks II” parenting classes are for parents who wish to develop better parenting skill or parenting techniques for children ages 7-13 years. This will be 2 classes focusing on parent education, and parent and child interaction.

To register or for further information, please call OSU Extension at 937-548-5215 or email Diane Barga at barga.8@cfaes.osu.edu. Registration needs to be completed by July 8, 2010.

MOTE & ASSOCIATES AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS

Mote & Associates, Inc., Engineers and Land Surveyors of Greenville, is announcing their 2009-2010 scholarship award winners. They established a scholarship in October of 2002 at a celebration to honor the founder of the firm, Richard Mote, for his 30 years of dedicated leadership and his passion for engineering and surveying. Commendable students seeking a post high school education in the field of engineering, surveying, architecture, or a closely related field of study are eligible to apply for the scholarship. College students currently pursuing a degree in the aforementioned fields are eligible to apply along with high school seniors.

Two scholarships were awarded this year. Receiving the Mote & Associates’ Scholarships for the 2009-2010 academic year at the office of Mote & Associates, Inc., 214 West Fourth Street, Greenville, Ohio were Nathan Holthaus, a 2010 graduate of Ft. Loramie High School, and Matthew Hemmelgarn, a 2010 graduate of Versailles High School.

Nathan is the son of Randy and Mary Holthaus of Ft. Loramie. Nathan will soon be heading to the University of Dayton to begin pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering.

Matt is the son of Tim and Deb Hemmelgarn of Rossburg. He will be attending Ohio State University this fall to also pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering.

For more information regarding the Mote & Associates Scholarship, please contact the firm at 937-548-7511 or by e-mail at info@moteassociates.com.

L to R: Jerry McClannan, owner; Randy & Mary Holthaus, Nathan’s parents;
Nathan Holthaus, scholarship recipient; Louis Bergman, Mike Henderson, & Mike Bruns, owners

L to R: Deb & Tim Hemmelgarn, Matt’s parents; Matt Hemmelgarn, scholarship recipient, Mike Bruns, Mike Henderson, Louis Bergman & Jerry McClannan, owners

Lightning Safety Awareness Week is June 20-26

When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors!

In a coordinated effort with the National Weather Service (NWS) and the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness, and in participation with national efforts, Governor Ted Strickland recognizes June 20-26 as “Lightning Safety Awareness Week,” and encourages all Ohioans to practice lightning safety and preparedness during this week and throughout the summer.

Lightning is one of nature’s most dangerous weather phenomena. In 2009, the NWS reported 34 fatalities caused by lightning strikes in the United States. Ohio had no lightning-caused fatalities for the year.
To date, five deaths have been caused by lightning strikes – including an Ohio man on May 31, 2010.

During National Lightning Safety Awareness Week, everyone is encouraged to learn more about lightning safety and preparedness tips, and know how to protect themselves during thunder and lightning storms. Especially during spring and summer months, have a severe weather safety plan. Check weather forecasts daily and plan outdoor activities accordingly. Remember: When thunder roars, go indoors.

The National Weather Service and Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness offer the following lightning safety tips:

Watch for developing thunderstorms – Thunderstorms are most likely to develop on spring or summer days, but can occur during any season. Be alert of weather forecasts. Listen to weather reports on your local radio or television stations. Invest in a NOAA Weather Radio that will sound an alert when storm watches or warnings are in or near your area.

Seek shelter before an approaching thunderstorm – Lightning can strike as far as 10 miles away from where it is raining. If you can hear thunder, you are within striking distance. Seek shelter immediately.

Minimize the risk of being struck during outdoor activities – Most lightning strikes occur during the summer when people are participating in outdoor water or organized sporting events. If caught outdoors during a thunder and lightning storm, try to find shelter indoors. A house or other substantial building offers the best protection; small structures do little, if anything as protection from lightning.

For additional information on lightning safety, visit the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness at www.weathersafety.ohio.gov or the National Weather Service site: www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov.

These Monday morning photos from Chris Heidenreich

Taken in Richmond.

For general discussion (Ackley's job is safe for now)

Some great personal news from our friend ABM

Possible Lightning Strike Leads to Barn Fire Near Gettysburg

Video report from Steve Baker, story, and slideshow all at the link (click image).

Packing our bag (by Mike Stegall)

For 27 years I refereed High School football games. I had a great crew, all from Greenville, and we stayed together without much change that whole time. We were pretty good, not by just my account, but also according to our assigning agents. We worked hard, studied, prepared and always were where we were supposed to be. In all those years, I did a lot of things right, and pretty well. Now, thinking back on those years, I realize I did one thing perfect every time, and never missed anything. The best thing I did, and most officials do, is pack their bag.

Greenville 12U wins Union City tournament

Over the weekend the 12u Greenville baseball all star team traveled to Union City to play in their tournament. The boys won first place.

5 injured in crash near Covington

Multiple Darke County residents were involved in the crash. Click on Steve Baker for the report. An additional video report from Kathryn Burcham is here.

Volunteer opportunity for Main Street Greenville

Are you looking for ways to get in family time without spending a lot of money? Why not spend time volunteering as a family?

Main Street Greenville needs volunteers to weed downtown flower and tree boxes along South Broadway once per month through October. Groups of four to eight people are needed to remove weeds. Volunteers are welcome to work at their leisure and should commit to at least two hours per month. All ages are welcome to participate.

"The power of volunteering makes a significant impact on our downtown district which we serve. Just an hour or two dedicated to cleaning up our flower boxes has a major influence on our community's quality of life and economic drive," says Amber Schmerge, Executive Director.

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

Greenville Eagles Independence Day Celebration - July 3rd

Classified is once again the headline entertainment for the Greenville Eagles annual Independence Day Celebration at Shade Road July 3. Also featured will be Darke County’s Got Talent, Cotton and Darke County’s largest fireworks display.

The Eagles Shade Road Independence Day Celebration will be bigger than ever this year thanks to the return of Darke County’s largest fireworks display. Sponsored by Greenville Eagles, the event starts at noon on July 3 and culminates “whenever!”

Music will be provided throughout the day and evening, headlined once again by “Classified.” Also featured are “Cotton” and the first of three “Darke County’s Got Talent” karaoke semi-finals.

“The reputations of Classified and Cotton are established,” said Greenville Trustee Ron Kreitzer, “but the local talent that has surfaced in our karaoke contest is also fantastic.

“We have some really great singers competing for the $1,000 grand prize to be awarded this fall.”

The talent contest will begin about noon, followed by Cotton and then Classified. The fireworks will start about 10 p.m.

“The unfortunate situation with our fireworks provider last year made it possible to build an even better show this year,” said Past Worthy President Kerry Young. “There will be a strong patriotic soundtrack timed with about 20-25 minutes of non-stop fireworks.”

The Greenville Eagles membership has been funding fireworks displays for the Darke County community for the past four years. The Independence Day Celebration was moved to Eagles Shade Road last year.

There will be beverages, food from multiple vendors, and for the kids, the Moonwalk and playground equipment. Want to throw a few horseshoes? Bring them along and take advantage of the Shade Road horseshoe area.

As always, admission to the Independence Day Celebration is free.

For a different taste of entertainment, plan to pick up your tickets for an evening of “Ribs ‘n Blues,” sponsored jointly by the Darke County Center for the Arts and the Greenville Eagles. It starts at 6 p.m. on July 16 at Shade Road, and features “Ray Fuller & The Blues Rockers.” A $12 ticket gets your choice ribs or chicken, a side and a beverage and a great evening of entertainment. Tickets will be available on July 3, as well as from any Eagles officer or DCCA board member.

Growing concerns (by John Liette)

By now, we all know some facts regarding Good Samaritan, Inc. John Graham is contracted to provide a temporary residence for individuals recently released from prison. This in and of itself is a very noble, gutsy cause. However, the growing concerns are the shift in nature of the program, without the notification of, let alone buy in, from the community as well as the continued expansion of the program, allowing it to take up more and more of our community.

My drive to be concerned and involved in this issue is not caused by a fear or anger over the existence of sex offenders or even the intention of the program. It is the lack of information about what is happening and the continued expansion of Good Samaritan, Inc. despite growing concern and displeasure of the community it relies upon.

According to Good Samaritan Home, Inc.’s website, the vision of the program is to “Improve Community Support for Offenders,” while noting that “Offenders who feel accepted by their community and believe they are valued members of that community are less likely to re-offend.”

Since opening his program, Mr. Graham has essentially shut himself off from the public after the initial strongly negative response he received. His site references many articles that describe the nature of the program, along with success stories and accounts of the original debate on this subject. The articles appear to end around 2004.

While browsing these articles, I found the earliest one from the Dayton Daily News most peculiar. In it, while defending his intention to open the first home, it is stated that “no one convicted of a murder, sex crime or arson is considered for Koinonia House placement.” While these offenders may not live in the Koinonia house today, I believe it is incredibly fair to say that this is misleading to the community he claims to rely on to help these individuals back on their feet. If it is true that the goal of Good Samaritan Inc. is “to involve local citizens in the rehabilitative process while clearly communicating community expectations,” why has this approach not been practiced? What exactly are our expectations? Based on the actions of the program, the expectation is to sit back and stay out of the way, while the program expands in the name of religious work.

As of 6/20/2010, there are 4 registered offenders living at 323 E Main St. which includes at least 1 that is confirmed as a tier III offender with a previous charge of Gross Sexual Imposition with a victim under the age of 13.

At 116 Ludlow, there are currently 4 registered offenders, including 2 Tier III offenders, one who committed gross sexual imposition, as well as kidnapping a minor to engage in sexual activity. This along with a tier II offender and another who has multiple offenses is a huge change from the intention described to the community in the past.

This shift in scope of the project is alarming. How quickly we have moved from no individuals convicted of sexual crimes to seemingly serving exclusively individuals convicted of sex crimes.

In addition to this, 451 E 3rd St is the Fitzpatrick House. This is another noble endeavor to provide a temporary residence to the homeless. This cause is good and is not under attack by any of the organized groups looking into this issue. There are, however, concerns about the way this is being operated as well.

While the Fitzpatrick House is labeled as a homeless shelter for “women and families” (according to the website), there is also a registered offender living there. In fact, the offender in question is a tier III offender who has convictions of abduction, rape and domestic violence. While it is important for this individual to be able to reclaim his life, it seems reckless to place this individual in a home where women and families are taken in and cared for. How do you explain that circumstance to the mother who is desperate for a place to sleep?

While the intentions of John Graham and Good Samaritan, Inc. are sound and great, I take great exception to the methods with which the program is implemented. He has described one thing and enacted another. He has continued to acquire properties and grow his enterprise, compromising his original mission in the process. It is naïve to believe he is not profiting from this endeavor, but profiting while dividing the community with half-truths and continuing to expand his operation in a way that directly contradicts his vision statement demands some answers.

[ref. http://www.goodsamaritanhome.org]